OSPREY…SWOOOSH

UnitedOsprey1991: (In a Michael Buffer Voice) Ladies and Gentleman Boys and Girls it is time for the First Main Event of this Story. The Ever Grande Conference) Are your ready Ash and Drew?

Ash: Yeah! It's time for the Hoenn League

Drew: Ready to lose Ash

Ash: Please I could beat you with my eyes closed

Drew: Yeah right you would have won in the show three times at least by now.

Ash: Like you could win in your first tournament.

Misty: Boys enough save it for the battles.

Gabby: Yeah come on your wasting it here. Besides Drew could beat your boyfriend

Misty: Oh really on whose authority do you make that claim

Gabby: Mine and I think this story needs a warm-up fight (lunges at Misty and begins a catfight)

May: Misty here I come to help (Gets into the fight)

Tori: UnitedOsprey1991 does not own anything except his Ocs. Michael Buffer's famous ring introduction is his by trademark. Kamen Rider belongs to Toei and Pokémon belongs to Nintendo (Leaps in to help as it breaks down completely)

UO1991: (Still in Buffer) Alright now with the competitors ready there is one thing to do. READERS! Let's Get READY TO RUUUUMMMMMMMBBBBBLLLLLLEEEEEEE! (Fight hits UO1991 as he ends it knocking him out.)

Ash: Is it wrong that I am getting turned on right now?

Drew: Ash if that's wrong I don't want to be right

Brock: On with the story. Oh and mature and possibly sensitive topics ahead.

Normal: Dialogue

Italics: Thoughts

Bold: Yelling

Bold and Italics: Yelling in head:

Underline: Dates and locations

Slateport City: Day after Grand Festival

When we last left our heroes they were cheering on May in her first Grand Festival. She nearly fell to despair as a result of Harley's intimidation tactics and another monster sent by Team Rocket. However thanks to her mother and her friends she unlocked a new form and defeated the monster attacking the festival. She then created a stir by reaching the Top Eight before bowing out gracefully to her rival coordinator.

Now we find our heroes waiting for said coordinator. They were waiting for a quick way to get to Ever Grande City. "Damn it May where are you" Drew growled. "Ash where did May go?" Tori asked. "Ugh if I know her she is probably shopping" Max asked only to get bonked by Misty. "I believe she asked Ash Max. Now Ash where is May" Misty asked "Well…" "Hey everyone guess what" The group turned to see May running up. "I scored us tickets on an airplane to get us to Ever Grande City faster" May said excited. Most of the group looked skeptical but Gabby tensed. "Gabby you alright" Drew whispered. Gabby couldn't hear him so he pulled her aside.

Gabby's mind

She was seeing what appeared to be a news cast. A plane crashing into a metal tower a second plane hitting its twin, people screaming, the building collapsing people running. Another plane crashing into a weird building that looked like a pentagon. A large crater that appeared to have a fire in it. People being pulled out of the wreckage dead among them fire fighters and other emergency personal. These images kept replaying over and over.

"Gabby"

Now she was seeing a plane carrying her friends. These seemed to merge with the previous images and formed an elaborate montage of death and destruction

"Gabby!" She snapped out of it and looked to see a worried look on his face. "You alright?" She hesitantly nodded. "It still stings doesn't it" she nodded again. He just hugged her "I will sit next to you on the plane alright" Gabby just grabbed his arm. They walked back and caught up with the rest of the group. Brock noticed the scared look on the face of Gabby but shook it off as they got on the plane and took off.

On the plane the gang was settling in when the flight attendant came on the radio. "Hello there, this is your flight attendant we regret to inform you this flight is not going to Ever Grande City" as she revealed herself as Jessie from Team Rocket. "TEAM ROCKET" Everyone except Gabby said. Gabby however started hyperventilating. "Gabby calm down its going to be alright. "We will be taking that Pikachu of yours" just then a warning light blared "What is happening James" "We seem to be low on fuel Jessie did you remember to refuel the plane" "Uh…I guess I forgot" Jessie sweatdropped. "Jessie this is serious we need to find a place to land" "Look James over by those whirlpools I will help you Jimmy" Meowth said. With some difficulty they managed to land on the beach and kept the plane out of the whirlpools.

"Let me out…PLEASE LET ME OUT" Gabby was in the middle of a breakdown at this point as she pushed open the door and ran out. "Tori come on Ash grab our stuff. Gabby wait up we don't know where we are. GABBY!"

Drew and Tori ran after her but she was fast and considering her expertise was hunting she could hide pretty well. "Gabby where are you?" Drew called out "Gabby we are off the plane it didn't crash come out please" Tori called worriedly. "Where is she" Tori asked. "I don't know. Damn it I should have pressed more for a boat" "you didn't know it was going to have Team Rocket. We also underestimated her fear" Tori said placing an arm on his shoulder. "Sigh… what some people would do to hurt a country" Drew sadly said.

They heard sniffling. They turned to a tree with a large leaf in front of it. They lifted the leaf and sadly smiled. Gabby had her face on her knees crying and sniffling. "Hey you…room for two more" Gabby lifted her head and attempted to clear her face. Drew just slid in behind her and hugged her to his chest while Tori hugged her back. "Let it out Gabby we are right here" Gabby did just that crying her eyes out. It went for fifteen minutes letting his shirt be soaked with tears. Drew didn't mind he just rubbed her while Tori held on rocking her. "What did you see" Drew asked. "I…I saw that day…I saw the plane crash with all of us on it…sniff…WAAAHH" Gabby just kept crying until she fell asleep. "Think she will be alright" Tori asked.

"Yeah…think it would be ok to sleep with her tonight?" "Why are you asking me we share you" "I just thought I would ask you if you mind." "Only if you let me do the same thing I think she needs us both." Drew nodded and picked Gabby up and shifted her to his back. "You know under different circumstances this would be the perfect vacation spot for when we are older." "You never know Drew we find a tropical paradise of our own. Nothing but you me Gabby and any girl that has you in their swimsuits" Tori giggled. Drew's nose bled a little at the thoughts. He growled "Your killing me woman" Tori ran off ahead and Drew went to catch up laughing all the way.

Back at the crash site.

Ash and the gang were building a camp site as they might be there for a while. The group heard rustling and turned to see Drew and Tori walking out of the bushes. "Hey guys" Drew called out waving to group and adjusting his hold on Gabby. "There you guys are where did you run off too" Brock said. "Gabby ran off we found her but she tired herself out." Drew said as Tori pulled on Gabby's sleeping bag and laid her down on it. Tori grabbed a washcloth and put it on her head which Gabby moaned slightly. "She looks overheated hopefully she will be alright in a couple of hours. We'll put her in the shade." Tori said as she and Drew moved her to the trees. They walked back to the fire. "So any plans yet" "No but this is Robin he crashed on the island years ago and yet he hasn't found a way off. His Wailmer is out in the water there" Misty pointed to the big pokémon on shore. "Sit down relax we got some food we can discuss what we are going to do. That includes you Team Rocket you got us into this mess you will help us get out of it" Ash said.

(Sensitive stuff ahead)

The two standing nodded and sat down. After a few minutes Max asked a serious question. "So what caused Gabby to freak out like that?" "Max that was rude they might not know." "It's alright May." Drew sighed.

He looked up at the sky "I envy your world Ash" Drew said. Said trainer looked at him "You only have to deal with groups bent on stealing pokémon not outright destruction." "What does that have to do with what Gabby did" Max asked. "I am getting to that. Sigh…back in our world we have to deal with a lot of problems. One of them affects our country directly. There are people who go so far as to blow themselves up to create panic and destruction.

Drew closed his eyes "It was a day just like this maybe a little warmer. A group of these terrorists took over four planes. They flew two intentionally into these towers that was a center for economics. They flew a third into the headquarters of our country's defense and if it wasn't for the civilians on the fourth plane they would have flown it into the building of our country's leader. That wasn't the worst part." A tear trickled down. "Those two towers…which were 110 stories… collapsed" shocking the group. "The people above the collision site stood no chance of getting out and there were people still in the building when they both came down." Drew started sniffling "3000 people killed. 3000 innocent people killed for an extremist's plan" the group sat quiet processing what was said. "How…how long ago was this?" Misty asked. "It happened at the beginning of our fifth school year. When we came here we were about three-quarters through our seventh year" Drew said.

"Not even three years ago" Brock said. "I see an event like that could traumatize people from flying. Gabby must have had a flashback to that day" Drew nodded. "This is why I don't like terrorists. You Team Rocket are not exempt from this. You might be petty but your group might be the worse of them here.

"Now look here twerp don't you go accusing us of being like these terrorists groups. We are Team Rocket we only go for pokémon" Jessie as she stood along with James. Drew looked ready to fight but Ash and Misty grabbed him while James grabbed Jessie. "Alright enough. We need to work together to get off this island" Drew nodded and he was released. "Alright then but how are we going to do that" May asked. "Let's just take some time an cool off its past mid-day so let's get into the shade and get some practice in" Ash said. They nodded and released their pokémon so they could train a bit.

After about an hour of training they were getting a little tired. Max had walked over to Drew who was observing his pokémon training while doing some punches and kicks on a tree. "Hey Drew what's up" Drew launched a powerful kick which cracked the trunk. "Just some venting some frustration" Max looked over at Gabby "Is Gabby still ok" "Yeah can you go check on her change the wash cloth" Max nodded. "One more question" At Drew's look Max asked "How close were you to those planes that crashed" Drew looked down. "I could see the smoke from the towers from my house" Drew said and went back to punching the tree.

Max went over to Gabby who was starting to stir from her impromptu nap "What…what happened?" "Hey Gabby how are you feeling" "A little tired" she said as Max put the washcloth on her head. Drew walked over "Hey you. Have a nice nap" Drew asked as he sent Max to get some water. "Yeah…man I feel like laying here forever this feels nice" "Well we might be staying here for a while unless we figure out a way off this island." Gabby hummed then got a questioning look. "Aren't some planes made to float in some places?" Drew's eyes widened and he kissed Gabby's forehead. "You just may have saved us try to see if some of your pokémon can help you?" Drew ran towards the other parts of the island to let them know what the idea was.

Over the next few hours as the sun started to drop trainers and pokémon worked together to create a large enough raft for all of them. Drew Ash and Brock directed Haryiama Cacturne May's Combusken and Gabby's Combusken to break up and haul parts of the ship. Tori guided Ash's Grovyle, her Growlithe, Gabby's Poochyana and Ash's Torkoal to knock down trees. Gabby and Max guided Drew's Swampert Absol and Manectric along with Brock's Lombre to drag the logs and leaves to the shore where May Max and Misty along with Tori's Grovyle and May's Beautifly who provided the string sowed them together. Meanwhile Team Rocket was scheming while helping out moving the stuff into position. Finally their raft was done. It was a combination of the planes hull and some of the trees on the island. There were harnesses made of Beautifly silk and rope enhanced with May's power for the water and flying types to swim and pull the boat. The leaves and the blankets off the plane and fashioned them into a sail. Two more longs were used as the mast and were tied together with more rope that Team Rocket seemed to have.

"Well now this looks like a good boat" Brock said at the campfire. The rest of the gang nodded. "Tomorrow we set sail" Ash said "And once we set sail we can finally get to the pokémon league." "Good I thought we were going to be here forever" May said "Not that I would mind with Ash and Misty" May blushed. Ash laughed and grabbed her in a hug. "I agree May. Hey we are going to take a walk alright" Drew said as he got up and his girls followed him. "Guess they want some private time right now" Ash said as May and Misty laid into his shoulders and closed their eyes. Ash smiled and rubbed their heads. "I guess it's time for bed come on sleepy heads" They nodded and went to their sleeping bags. The rest of the group nodded and started to turn in.

On the other side of the island Drew Gabby and Tori were sitting on the beach looking at the sunset. "You know this would be a perfect vacation spot" Gabby said laying her head on Drew's shoulder" "Tori said the same thing" Drew said causing the girls to laugh. "I know we are young but I see us on an island like this for our honeymoon" Tori said blushing. "Maybe…maybe Hawaii, the Bahamas or someplace like that" Drew said. They looked at the sunset in comfortable silence. "I told them about 9/11 Gabby" Gabby turned her head down. "I'm sorry Gabby" "It's alright they would have found out anyway. I want to get better on this…It is so hard to keep seeing that day again and again." Gabby said quietly. Feeling Drew's arm squeeze her she placed her hands on his. "Three years I don't know if the world will ever be the same. We will fight everyone if we have to for a better world." Drew said. The girls just closed in and closed their eyes listening to the waves. After a few minutes they got up and went back to camp where they fell asleep.

The next day they were ready to leave the island. "Alright time to get off this island" Max said. They began pushing the boat out when Team Rocket stopped them. "I'm sorry twerps but we will take that boat" Jessie said. "I knew it, I knew we couldn't trust you" Drew growled as they pulled out their weapons. "Oh no you don't" Jessie said as grabbed Gabby with their mechanical grabber and pulled her to them. "You make a move and we kill her" "Drew help me!" "Gabby it's going to be ok" Drew said as they slowly put their weapons down. Team Rocket pushed the ship out to sea. "How are we going to get her out of this mess" Ash asked. "I don't know" Drew said "Misty can't you swim with Triton?" "I don't know if I can with the whirlpools.

On the raft Team Rocket was gloating over the fact they have one of the so-called twerps. "Hahahaha we finally have one of these pesky riders so blonde twerpette how does it feel to not have you pesky little toy?"

Gabby who's hands were tied up just smirked "I may not have my driver but I can still kick your butt" Gabby said as she kicked Jessie knocking her down. James and Meowth tried to attack her but she kicked them in the head. Just then the boat reached the whirlpools which caused the boat to rock and begin to break apart. Team Rocket was blown away while Gabby fell into the water.

"Oh no Gabby is going to get sucked in" Max called as Drew and Tori were already running into the water pulling out his phone he pushed a button that looked like twin fish while Tori pulled out the Delphinus and her Sirius card and swiped them

STANDBY: PISCES

HENSHIN

COMPLETE/KAMEN RIDE SIRUS/KAMEN RIDE CHANGE: DELPHINUS While Tori assumed her feminine dolphin form Drew gained a new form. His armor was blue and green with fins similar to Misty's Triton armor only more muscular. His helmet had green eyes and had half a fish on each side which met up to form a tail in the back and had two daggers on his legs. This was Zodiac: Pisces form. Both of the now aqua clad warriors dove into the water and raced towards the whirlpool.

Back on shore Robin who looked like he was a fish was looking shocked at the armor transformation. He turned to his friend Wailmer "There must be something we could do Wailmer" Wailmer looked thoughtful and turned towards the whirlpool and started glowing shocking the group on shore.

Back in the water, Gabby was slowly sinking unable to get out of thick ropes 'Got to get free. Whirlpool sucking me in must break free. Losing air' Gabby let out a bubble of air and slowly closed her eyes 'Drew…Tori…remember me' her last sight was two armored figures swimming towards her.

Drew and Tori reached Gabby and quickly cut the ropes and put her around Drew's shoulders. They started fighting against the current knowing it was the only way to get out. Tori quickly activated her dolphin fins and added extra power. Drew turned on the jets on his armor and tried to break through. They finally did so almost exhausting themselves.

They quickly swam up on the other side of the whirlpool and surfaced. "Is Gabby ok" Tori asked worried. "Don't know but we got bigger problems look" Tori saw they were on the other side of the whirlpool. "Damn it how are we going to get back" Tori asked. Drew looked around for anything they could do. Tori spotted something "Uh Drew are my eyes deceiving me or are our friends moving on the water" Drew looked and saw they were in fact they were moving on the water passing through the whirlpools.

"Hey guys up here" Max called out. May launched a Vine Whip which wrapped around the two and pulled them up on the large mass. They landed and laid Gabby on the moving island. Removing his helmet Drew placed his ear on her chest. Finding a light pulse he did what his taught him and started CPR. After chest compressions he gave a deep breath and blew into her mouth. After a few seconds of no action he felt something on his head preventing him from moving. He released his mouth and stared at Gabby who opened her eyes. "I think… I need to… nearly drown… more often …that was …a good kiss" Gabby chuckled breathlessly. Drew gave out a loud sigh and started laughing as well falling to her side. "Don't do that to me" Drew said calming down "No…promises" Gabby said. "What are we on anyway" Tori asked. "We are on a pokémon. Robin's friend Wailmer evolved into Wailord trying to help us out" Brock said looking towards the front. Drew sat up and looked where they were looking. Wailord gave out a cry and blew through its blowhole. "Traveling on a large whale…great…I need a nap" Drew said powering down, revealing soaked clothes. He fell back causing the group to laugh at his plight. He felt Gabby's hand and squeezed it causing her to smile Tori, powered down as well grabbed a couple of towels and dried them out and smiled as they slept.

Four hours later they finally returned to dry land at Slateport. The heroes disembarked at a dock but Robin stayed on board "Robin what are you doing" Ash asked. "I have been on the island so long I don't know if I can go back to the real world" Robin said. "Don't you have someone to go back to" Drew asked. "No I was a nine to five busy man no time for dating and my family thinks I'm dead." 'I see just like Cast Away' Drew thought as Robin continued. "I thank you for getting me off the island but it made me realize that it gave me a new life" Robin looked as Wailord friend. "Thank you but this is where we part ways." Robin said as he hopped on the whale and went back to Wailmer Island. The gang waved him good-bye as he vanished.

"So now what" Max asked as they started walking towards the pokémon center

"Three things we all take a shower we stink to high heaven" the group agreed. "Second we secure tickets on a boat I don't feel like flying again." Again the group agreed. "Third we do not let May pick our rides" The group agreed but then May's mind caught up to her "HEY! NOT FUNNY!" May cried out. The rest started to laugh and May pouted but Ash just grabbed her by her shoulders causing her to blush slightly again as they walked back to center for a long rest.

Days later: Ship heading to Ever Grande City

After resting and getting on a ship towards Ever Grande City we find our heroes with sight of the city. "Alright one week to for my next pokémon league challenge" Ash called out. "You know it. One week until we beat all newcomers and then I beat you in the finals" Drew responded "Your right except it is going to me that wins this who" Ash replied. "Is that so" Drew turned towards Ash and began trading bards back and forth

While the boys were arguing the girls were looking at them in amusement "Those boys of ours they are fired up aren't they" Misty said. "You should see Drew when one of his teams are doing well" Tori said causing them to laugh. "Well with the boys want to win badly" Gabby said. "Yeah I remember in Johto and in the Indigo league Ash was so pumped to win but bad luck found him and he lost before the Elite Eight" Misty sighed dreamily "For some reason I have a feeling he could do it this time." "So changing gears what do we do once we are off the boat" "I got it right here" May said pulling out a book. It was title Sights Sounds and Eats for the Ever Grande Conference

The other girls sweatdropped "May…you are more like Ash than you realize" Misty said. May giggled, "Good eats and good friends is all I need for a simple girl like me" the girls just laughed at the joke.

Once off the boat the gang was now following May to find what was considered one of the best ramen shops in Hoenn. "May are you sure we are going the right way to this noodle shop" Max asked. "Of course my sense of direction is second to none" "May we all know both you and Max stink at directions" Tori said. "Don't rub it I know where I am going" 'Yeah right' the earth trio thought. "This shop better be worth it we are hungry" Gabby complained. Drew however noticed something up. With a slight wave of his hands his Leonid sword was at his side ready to slash. "Guys heads up I think we are being watched." The group stopped and looked around. Suddenly they heard cawing. A bunch of Murkrow came swooping in and started pecking at them. One of them went for the book in May's book. "Hey don't you dare take that VINE GRAPPLE May fired two vines which struck the Murkrow holding the book. Only for another one to take the book "You pesky bird MARS SHOCKWAVE" Drew called out sending a wave of fire around the heads of his friends charcoaling some of them only for more to take. "Grr…Pikachu Thunderbolt" Pikachu shocked some more but the Murkrow kept coming. "These birds are starting to annoy me" Gabby growled sending a couple of Shock Arrows out and scaring more off. Just then the Murkrow got slashed by a mysterious figure. Before long all the Murkrow were scattered and a Meowth appeared in front of the group. But unlike Team Rocket's Meowth he was wearing a fedora hat and boots.

"Meowth good job" A voice called out. The group turned to see a brown-haired running up to him wearing a green jacket and a red shirt. "Everyone alright there" "Yes we were handling but thanks to your Meowth we only have scratches" Drew said as he bent down to the Meowth's level to shake his hand. The Meowth looked at his hand and walked passed. "Sorry about that he is a little standoffish he is not a bad pokémon at all. My name is Tyson. By chance were you guys going to Ever Grande Noodle Nosh?" "Yes we were do you know where it is?" May asked. "Yes I do follow me" Tyson said.

Now at the Noodle shop the teens were slurping down noodles "May you be bad at directions but these are good noodles" Drew said. "I think we can agree Ash and May can't read a map" Misty said. The two dropped their heads but quickly recovered. "So Tyson what are you doing in Ever Grande City" Ash asked. "Well other than competing in Hoenn League which I assume you and Drew here are for, but I am going to part in the last leg of the torch relay." "Torch Relay." Max asked "Oh yeah I remember me Ash and Brock here did that in the Indigo league." Misty remembered. "So when are you supposed to be going" Drew asked. "Well…SHOOT! Gotta run Sorry the relay is in an hour. Come on Meowth" Tyson finished up his noodles and ran to their right. "And I thought we had bad timing" Gabby said finishing her bite. "Come on guys finish up and let's go see this relay" Tori said as they packed up

At the relay site the league president Charles Goodshow along with the local Officer Jenny and Nurse Joy were waiting for Tyson. Next to them was the sacred fire of the legendary pokémon Moltres. "Sorry about the wait Mr. President" Tyson as he caught his breath. "No problem Tyson we just arrived ourselves. Oh well hello there" Tyson and Mr. Goodshow turned to see the gang run up. "Ah hello again ready to see me off?" Tyson asked. Mr. Goodshow smiled "Oh I recognize most of you. The Cerulean and Pewter Gym leaders along with Mr. Ketchum. You all participated in the relay for the Indigo League a couple of years ago. I also recognize May here" At her surprised expression he chuckled "Don't be surprised. An Top Eight appearance in your debut grand festival had me pretty impressed. I see your brother here as well but I do not recognize you three." "A pleasure sir. My name is Drew these are my companions Gabby and Tori. I will also be in the League as my debut appearance." Drew said pointing out his friends "Ah I thought I recognized you. You're the one who beat six gym leaders without losing a pokémon. You also helped out Ash with his Mind badge didn't you. I look forward to seeing both you and Ash going far in this tournament. Now then let's get this show on the road. Tyson here is the flame" With a cheer the torch was lit and with his Meowth Tyson took off. "Come on kids hop into the limo I can take you to see the sights" Mr. Goodshow said as they piled into the limo.

As they drove around Charles pointed out the various sights. "Over there gentleman is the main stadium there are four secondary fields for the qualifying rounds. Here we have the pokémon center where we will register you. Now for you spectators there is a nice shopping center with some great restaurants." May and Max's eyes lit up at the thought of the restaurants while the girls lit up at shopping. Drew and Ash however focused on the stadium. "The Big stage Ash are you ready to win." Ash nodded "Yep. Just so you know you have to get through me to win right." Drew smirked "I think you mean you have to go through me" they laughed until Charles got a call on his radio. "Mr. Goodshow it's terrible someone disguised themselves as a Nurse Joy and an Officer Jenny and have stolen the sacred flame." "WHAT! We are on our way, where are you?" "We are in the forest on near one of the training grounds" "Mr. Goodshow pull over we can get there faster with our pokémon." The limo pulled over. Drew released Flygon and Swellow while Ash released his Swellow. "Hop on quick" They boarded the pokémon and with a flap of their wings they were off.

With the stolen torch

Team Rocket had stolen the torch with the help of their newest monster. It was a humanoid Moltres named Death Phoenix. Tyson and his Meowth were trying to protect the flame but were failing miserably. "You can't beat us little boy we are undefeatable" Jessie boasted. "Well except the time the other twerps beat us time and time again." James countered "Quiet James. Death Phoenix finish them off" "Yes Mistress DARK FLAME" Tyson tried to protect his Meowth as the flames came closer.

NEPTUNE'S SHIELD" A water shield came up over Tyson and Meowth. He looked up and saw the people he met before jumping off their pokémon. "Team Rocket why aren't we surprised" Ash called out. "Grr…soldiers attack" Dark Troopers showed up ready to cause chaos. "Me and Ash have the fire bird you guys get these guys" the group nodded and pulled out their belts and activated them causing them to send out sounds

STANDBY LEO/KAMEN RIDE/ORION

"Who are you guys" Tyson asked wondering how a bunch of belts were going to beat them.

Ash smirked "We are just some traveling Kamen Riders. Remember that HENSHIN" followed shortly by the others

COMPLETE/SIRIUS/ORION/EVOLVE

Now in their armors they went to their assigned tasks with Aura and Zodiac went to take care of the fire bird.

"So you are the ones my mistress was talking about. Grr…taste this SKY ATTACK" The bird started to glow brightly and charged at them. The two got out of the way barely and got singed a bit on their gear.

BUBBLEBEAM Ash fired a concentrated fire of bubbles at the bird. Phoenix just closed his wings and sent a gust of wind at Ash knocking him down. LION'S CLAW Drew called out but the flame attack did nothing and the bird knocked him away. "You can't hurt me with your puny attacks just give up." "Never" Ash said as he scanned another card THUNDERSHOCK the belt sounded as Ash directed the bolt at Phoenix with his sword. Phoenix dodged and unleashed another attack FLAMETHROWER and surrounded Ash.

Misty and May saw the flames swallow Ash and looked on in horror "ASH NO!" their momentary distraction allowed some of the troopers to sneak up on them. Gabby saw this and quickly snipped those approaching them "Don't let the battle distract you" Gabby called as she swung her dagger to attack another one. "He'll be fine let's finish these guys off." The two girls hesitantly nodded and went back.

Drew growled and flipped out his phone. He pressed the button that looked like a water jug and replaced the phone.

STANBY CHANGE: AQUARIUS

Drew's armor changed. Instead of a fiery lion motif he was a mixture of blue and light blue. The armor looked built like a swimmer but was bulkier at the chest. On his back was something akin to a water tank with two hoses on the arms. On his chest were two wavy lines.. This was Zodiac: Aquarius form. "You bastard take this" Drew yelled shooting a large blast of water at the bird. Phoenix just took to sky and started launching fire balls. Drew dodged it and sent activated flipped a switch on his back. A large gust of air propelled him into the sky and started chasing them. "You will pay for my friend. AQUA BURST Drew called out pointing at his lance at the bird and firing several shots the bird. Phoenix just dodged all of them and fired back. Drew was forced to deflect the shots while struggling to fly.

"Ha little boy you can't beat me a flying" the monster laughed until he ran into something and was smacked aside. When he got his bearings he was stunned. "YOU I THOUGHT I DESTROYED YOU"

Before they took to the air

In the flames Ash was getting torched and was getting tired. "Gotta out of these flames they are counting on" "ASH" his girls called out but he could barely hear them. "Misty…May. I won't give up" just then a glow came from his deck case. He pulled out the glowing card. It was his armor but it looked more like an aura warrior he had read. It was darker blue with gold trimmings. A cloak was adorned over his back. His belt however looked different. The buckle still looked like his original but now it looked like it had six slots for different cards.

"A new card…right time to see what this baby could do" Ash said as he scanned it.

ADEPT

Ash's armor glowed and assumed the form on the card. This was Aura: Adept form. The flames were dispelled by his release. Aura looked at his deck case to see new cards. They were of the six pokémon he on him to take on the Hoenn League. "My pokémon" looking at his belt he had smirked behind his mask. "I have been using your attacks for which I am grateful for now I guess it's time for us to fight as one." Ash said as he inserted the cards into their respective slots.

PIKACHU/SWELLOW/GROVYLE/CORPHISH/TORKOAL/GLALIE

He heard them give a roar of approval as they got ready to help their trainer. Flipping the switch with Swellow he grew wings and took flight. He saw the fighting and activated the switch Torkoal card

IRON DEFENSE

Ash still flying a silvery shine as Dark Phoenix ran into him. At the yell by the bird Ash flipped Corphish's card and deactivated Torkoal's card.

BUBBLEBEAM

Ash fired point blank doing some considerable damage and sending him towards Drew who proceeded send him straight into the ground at Team Rocket. The monster collided with Team Rocket sending them blasting off again. The Moltres flame was also sent into the air. Tyson seeing this panicked and reacted "Meowth grab the flame" Meowth leapt in grabbed the flame just before it hit the ground. "Whew that was close" Tyson sighed.

Back with the battle Ash and Drew landed with Ash deactivating both cards. They turned towards the monster who was recovering. "No! Where is my mistress" "Hey buddy I wouldn't be worrying about Team Rocket" Ash called out as Drew flipped his pone and pressed the Aquarius button

STANDBY AQUARIUS: FINISH

While Ash turned took out Pikachu's and Grovyle's card and inserted them into his sword.

THUNDERBOLT

LEAF BLADE
COMBO: THUNDER BLADE

HYDRO CANNON Drew called out sending a stream of 500 PSI water from both cannons at the bird dousing the flames of the phoenix leaving a very soaked bird. "No my flames" "You should be worrying more about your life" Ash said and with Pikachu and Grovyle behind him he slashed five quick times and shocked the monster thoroughly. He walked back towards Drew who started walking back as well. He sheathed his blade while Drew lifted his cannons onto his shoulders"

"Game over" Ash said as the bird gave out a final cry and blew up. Ash still in his Aura armor walked over to his girls who looked like they had cried. Ash powered down and got close.

"Hey—SLAP" A resounding slapping sound resounded causing everyone to flinch. Ash touched the spot that got slapped "Ow…Mist what did you do that for?" Misty was angrily shedding tears now. "YOU BIG IDIOT" Misty grabbed him in a fierce kiss. When they parted "Stop doing that…you have no idea what you put me through with these stunts, me and May" and broke down crying. Ash just hugged the sobbing girl closer and May came in and hugged them as well. "Ah young love…I miss those days. I can see the red head's love for both of her companions" Charles chuckled. "Sir don't ruin the moment" his assistant said as they all started to walk back towards the stadium with Ash and Drew's hand intertwined with their loves.

One week later one of the auxiliary fields

The tournament had started with several preliminary matches. Their friend Morrison had shown and registered with minutes to spare. Before the actual tournament they had to hold a set of preliminary one-on-one matches. Morrison using his Beldum faced off against an Electabuzz. Despite only having one move Beldum fought and when it got hopeless it evolved into Metang and with a larger move set he won the fight. Next was Drew who went up against a Camurupt with his Haryiama. With little effort he sent the camel packing and showed why he was one of the favorites. Then Tyson took to the field with his Meowth who went up against a Persian. It was revealed that Meowth had a bad history with Persian. That history almost cost Tyson the match as the Meowth kept attacking it. Persian was able to get more attacks in but Meowth was able to control his emotions and win the battle.

Finally it was Ash's turn. His opponent was Gilbert who specialized in fighting types. When the match started he sent out a Hitmonlee. Ash countered with Pikachu. "Alright Pikachu use Iron Tail" "Hitmonlee use Rolling Kick" Hitmonlee used its long legs to strike out against Pikachu. Pikachu's small size was used to its full potential as he dodged around the leg and struck against Hitmonlee sending him into to the ground.

"Pikachu is really fast for one of its species" Tyson commented. "Tyson he is just getting started" Drew smirked.

Back on the field Gilbert ordered Hitmonlee to flip and launch a Hi Jump Kick. "Kamen ride knockoff. Pikachu backpedal towards the walls and keep dodging the kicks." Pikachu did so and dodged three successive kicks. On the fourth one with Pikachu flipped up and caused the kick to hit the wall causing Hitmonlee to cry in pain. "Hitmonlee is hurt" Brock said. "High Jump Kick if it misses will hurt the pokémon pretty badly" Max pointed out.

Back on the field Pikachu and Hitmonlee reset but Hitmonlee was hobbling one leg. "Pikachu Iron Tail on the hurt leg it has to be its weak point." "Hitmonlee finish it quickly with Mega Kick." Pikachu charged in and struck true with the Mega Kick. When the smoke cleared Pikachu had jumped on the out-stretched leg and struck on Hitmonlee n the head knocking it out. "Alright we won" Ash called out. Pikachu put a peace sign and crossed his paw over his chest like some sort of hero. "Alright so we are all into the main tournament" Morrison said. With the preliminaries out of the way Ash was chosen to light the ceremonial flame with his friends in the stadium and his family watching from home.

Next day

The real tournament began the next day with double battles. They needed to win three of them to advance. The non-battlers were watching Drew take on Momo in the first of his battles. Morrison had already won and Ash was in a different stadium with Misty and May. Tyson's battle was later in the day.

"Let the battle begin"

"Dusclops, Linoone let's go"

"Let's ride Flygon, Absol" Drew called not even removing his hat and shirt.

"Dusclops use Shadow Ball, Linoone Swift. "Absol on Flygon take to the skies" Absol jumped on Flygon and took to skies dodging both attacks. "Flygon swing around use Steel Wing on Dusclops." "Linoone protect Dusclops use Slash on Flygon. Dusclops use Will-o-Wisp" "Absol use your Slash on Linoone' Absol jumped up and intercepted Linoone with a critical hit. Flygon powered through the attack and struck Dusclops. Absol landed on Flygon on the other side. "Absol Night Slash, Flygon Dragon Claw on Dusclops." "Linoone use Swift try to drive them off Dusclops try a Shadow Punch" Drew smirked. "Absol take the hit and finish your attack" Absol nodded and took the blow and the swift and still kept charging striking Dusclops with a powerful blow. Flygon flew in and finished it off.

In the stands Tyson was impressed. "Absol has incredible chemistry with Flygon" causing the girls to laugh. "Yeah right, if anything in Double battles Flygon and Absol are one of the worse on Drew's team. If Drew wanted to be serious he would have used Flygon and Cacturne or Swellow with Absol" Gabby said. "Drew hasn't removed his hat he isn't being serious." Tori pointed out

Momo was shocked and tried to recover. "Linoone use Water Pulse on Absol." "Flygon intercept with Flamethrower." Flygon fired a white hot flame that burned through the Water Pulse and hit Linoone burning it. "Absol finish with Slash" With a loud cry the Slash connected and sent Linoone into the wall knocking it out.

"Both Linoone and Dusclops are unable to battle. The battle goes to Drew Absol and Flygon" Drew tipped his hat to the crowd as he walked towards his pokémon. "Good job you two" the two nodded but then looked toward each other and huffed. "Behave you two or no special treats for you" the two gulped. Drew asked Brock to teach him to make some pokémon food. He came up with two different varieties one he feed based on the pokémon and one he put special seasoning in that made it delicious especially Absol who refused to train with the others until prodded with this food. Drew sighed "Come on return" Drew called them back and walked out of the stadium

Four days later

The doubles competition had given way to the Top 16 competition. In the Doubles Round, Morrison had advanced with his Metang and Growlithe winning against a Machamp and a Marowak. Then Drew advanced with his Swellow and Swampert against a Psychic but it took a desperate improvised move against an Aggron and Metagross involving an Ice Beam with an Aerial Ace and a Muddy Water blocking the vision of their pokémon. That shook his confidence a bit but still advanced to the round of 16. Tyson then advanced with his Sceptile against another Aggron and through a combination of Leaf Blade and Bullet Seed he won as well. Finally, Ash pulled out a win against a Tropius and a Swalot with his Torkoal and Corphish. Torkal and Tropius had been knocked out by each other leaving Corphish to try to win against a seemingly unbeatable pokémon as the attacks kept bouncing off of Swalot. But thanks to a cleaver strategy he won by launching a Bubblebeam into Swalot's mouth. Now in the Top 16 they had been placed in a tournament bracket. Ash was up against someone named Katie while Morrison was on the opposite side of his bracket while Drew and Tyson were in the lower half with them positioned to face off in the semi-finals.

Now it was Ash's turn to battle with Morrison having already won to advance to the quarters. Katie stood on the other side looking cool and confident. The ref gave the signal and the battle began.

"Go Venomoth" "Torkoal I choose you" "Venomoth use Stun Spore" "Torkoal use Iron Defense" Torkoal blocked the Stun Spore but Katie disabled it. "Torkoal use Flamethrower scorch it" "Don't even think about it, Venomoth return go Golduck." "Torkoal try and use Body Slam" "No you don't Golduck use Hydro Pump" Golduck slammed Torkoal's stomach and sent him into the wall. "Follow up with Fury Swipes" and with a combination of claws Torkoal was knocked out dropping Ash into a 1-0 hole. "Torkoal return, go Pikachu" "Good job Golduck go Dugtrio"

"Damn Ash is at a complete disadvantage" Drew said in the stands causing Ash's girls to worry.

"Pikachu use Thunderbolt" Ash called out back on the field" "Dugtrio underground and then use Sand Tomb" "No Pikachu try to speed out of there use Volt Tackle" Pikachu used the electric move as Dugtrio used Double-edge. Pikachu was knocked forcing Ash to come in and pull him back out. "You ok Pikachu" Pikachu gave him a weak thumb up and fell unconscious. Ash walked back putting Pikachu on the side of his platform. "Alright you want my best you got it go Glalie" Glalie came out in a fury. "Dugtrio underground" "no you don't Glalie use Headbutt" like a missile struck true on Dugtrio forcing him above ground. "Now use Ice Beam" Glalie struck true finally scoring a victory over Katie and putting the score at 2-1. "Grr…Dugtrio return go Misdrevous." Feeling confident from the last match Ash ordered Glalie to Ice Beam and then Headbutt. Katie then ordered a Destiny Bond which led to Misdrevous to be knocked out. Ash was confident he tied up the match until the ghost pokémon's eyes glowed purple and hit Glalie also knocking it out making the score 3-2. With three of Ash's pokémon out they signaled an intermission.

"I don't understand what happened to Glalie" Misty asked. "Darn it she used Destiny Bond. If the pokémon that uses is knocked out then the one who knocked it out is out as well. Instead of a tied battle, its intermission with three of Ash's pokémon knocked out. The only advantage Ash has is he has three pokémon not revealed yet while Katie has two potentially tired ones and two not revealed" Drew said. "He still has Swellow Corphish and Grovyle right?" May asked. Drew nodded as the battlefield changed and the two girls started cheering again.

Now on a water field Katie sent out Golduck while Ash sent out Corphish to take advantage of the water stage. "Alright let's get keep our momentum up Corphish use Crabhammer" "Golduck use Fury Swipes" the attacks just canceled each other out. Golduck fired a Hydro Pump while Corphish dodged it and went in for a Crabhammer. Katie smirked and ordered a Confusion which sent Corphish into the water confused. The crowd wondered where Corphish was but he ended up sneaking up behind and using Crabhammer. Still confused Corphish grabbed Golduck who tried a Fury Swipes embarrassing Katie and her Golduck that a confused pokémon could still keep attacking. Corphish swung Golduck into the wall and then use Bubblebeam to knock it out. Hoping to keep up the momentum Ash kept Corphish in the battle but was forced to switch to shake it out of its confusion. Swellow was next up and faced off against Venomoth. A short battle and a disabled move later resulted in Swellow winning. Scizor was Katie's fifth pokémon and went up against Swellow despite being part bug. After a use of Double Team, Swellow used Aerial Ace to finish off Scizor leaving Ash up 5-3 and Katie down to her last one.

"How about that Ash turned the momentum around and now is one pokémon away from joining us in the quarterfinals" Drew said with May and Misty going into a cheering frenzy. "Your scream yourself horse sis" Max said which earned him a noogie from his sister.

Katie stood silent then said "You are impressive Mr. Ketchum but how are you going to last against my best pokémon. Let's go Walrein" the large Walrus roared for battle. "Alright Swellow use Peck." The attack bounced off Walrein. Walrein launched an Ice Beam which clipped his wing. Swellow tried Peck again but another Ice Beam knocked Swellow out. With two options left Ash went with Corphish who was tired but no longer confused. Walrein used Body Slam while Corphish tried to use Bubblebeam but was squashed under Walrein's weight.

"Oh man not even Swellow and Corphish could put a dent into Walrein" Max groaned, worrying Ash's girls. "Only pokémon left is Grovyle and he has a slight disadvantage with Ice types" Drew said.

Ash reluctantly sent out Grovyle. Katie smirked and ordered another Ice Beam. Grovyle dodged and used Leaf Blade which missed due to the water type diving. Grovyle tried to find him but Walrein came up behind Grovyle and fired an Ice Beam. Grovyle shook it off and tried to get him again. Ash got frustrated but then noticed the Ice on the water. "Grovyle let him attack you again." The crowd was confused and Katie used this to her advantage and ordered another Ice Beam. "Now use Leaf Blade and deflect the ice on to the water" Grovyle yelled out and captured the Ice beam towards the water freezing it and removing the advantage. "Now use Quick Attack Grovyle" Grovyle rammed Walrein into the wall getting the crowd into it. "You think speed will help you think again. Walrein use Mimic" Walrein sped out of the wall and the momentum hit Grovyle like a freight train. Grovyle recovered and fired off several Bullet Seeds. Walrein tried to recover with Body Slam but Grovyle was faster. Katie growing desperate ordered a Mimicked Quick Attack. Ash ordered Grovyle in close and at the last second uppercut with a Leaf Blade knocking Walrein out and finally giving Ash the win.

"ALRIGHT" Ash's entire section cheered with Misty and May being the loudest as the screen went from the battle screen to the victory screen. Ash being a sport shook Katie's hand and then waved to the crowd.

"How about that we are all in the quarterfinals" Tyson said. "One more round and we can face each other in the semis" Drew said as he clapped along with the rest of the crowd.

Three days later (Rest day then Quarters then another rest day takes place on the second rest day)

"CHEERS" the table sounded as the clanked their soda glasses together. The four trainers had all reached the Semis as promised. Ash had faced off against a circus performer that was seen as a dark horse in the knockout stage. After a grueling battle Ash won on a Volt Tackle by Pikachu and won six knocked out pokémon to four. Tyson barely won thanks to his Meowth going up against a Houndoom and pulled off a desperate Fury Swipes on the wall. Drew advanced 6-3 with an impressive performance by his Swampert and Haryiama after it looked like it wasn't going well after losing Swellow and Cacturne. But he turned it around and knocked out four pokémon in a row and drew with the fifth one sending a message to the rest of the Semifinalists. A Haryiama victory locked him into the Semis. Morrison won with his Metang after losing three pokémon in a row after being up 3-1 when he ran into a very tough Sableye. With the rest day they took advantage to hold a celebration in a pizza restaurant which was more than happy to serve the semifinalists and their guests. Mr. Goodshow said he would pick up the tab considering they put up a great tournament. Their pokémon were getting rest at the center.

"Man what a road to where we are now" Drew said sipping his glass. "Yeah I am so pumped to be here" Morrison munching on a slice of pizza. "No matter what happens we are still friends right" Tyson asked. "Never a question" Ash said. "So before we fight each other's brains out any good travel stories" Morrison asked. Ash and Drew smirked "We got some good ones" Drew said as he began telling the stories. Gabby and Tori were smiling on next to him while Misty and May next to Ash. "Our boys came so far" May said dreamily as she laughed at a funny incident Brock brought up involving Ash in a dress. "So who is going to join them on stage if they make it" Misty asked. Tori and Gabby looked at each other. "I am going to. He has known me a bit longer and might feel more comfortable with me up there" Tori said. "What about you and for that matter who is going to be the main girlfriend" Misty and May looked at each other. "You do it Misty I have no right you have known each other longer. Please you be the public girlfriend" Misty blushed and with the guys distracted Misty kissed May on the cheek. The earth girls smiled.

"Excuse me" the guys quieted down and saw a couple of kids who looked like a twin brother and sister. "Can we get your autograph please" they said together. The four trainers smiled. "Sure kids" Drew took out a pen and started signing the autograph book and passed it around. This prove to be a signal as other people came up to them. The girls laughed at the plight as they tried to finish their meals and autograph their pictures.

Next day

It was now Tyson and Drew's battle. In Ash and Morrison's battle Ash went up 2-0 as Morrison could not get the momentum going. After a harsh criticism by Ash Morrison was able to get back into it with his Swampert but drew with Ash's Corphish. At 3-1 the field changed and after the intermission Morrison took control of the battle with his Steelix. He beat Pikachu then Torkoal before finally falling to a Grovyle Leaf Blade. Morrison then tied it up at four when he released Gligar who used a Guillotine which choke slammed Grovyle. Swellow was Ash's fifth choice and after an aerial fight Gligar and Swellow knocked each other out. The last matchup was Metang and Glalie. A back and forth battle that including sending Glalie's attacks back and forth and a large Meteor Mash Ash pulled out a win with a spinning Headbutt under Metang and knocking it out sending him into the finals causing the girls to squeal in delight. Now it was Tyson and Drew's fight. They stood on either side of the battlefield waiting for the fight.

"Tyson" getting his attention "No regrets no holding back, in fact I will do something I haven't done at the beginning of a battle this tournament" Drew said and with a wave of his hand he grabbed his hat and tossed it towards Tori who caught it. He removed his jacket and tossed it to the ground and tightened his gloves. "I am going to be serious from the get go. I hope you are ready" Drew said and the girls in the crowd were swooning over his physique causing the KI to come from Gabby and Tori. "I was thinking the same thing Drew let this fight be memorable" Drew nodded and the ref signaled to start.

"Go Sceptile" "Let's ride Absol" the two pokémon gave a roar ready to fight. "Sceptile use Solarbeam" "Absol Hyper Beam" The two attacks hit with an outstanding power throwing up smoke. When it cleared to the shock of their trainers they were both knocked out. "Well, this will be fun" Drew said with a smile as he returned Absol "I agree" Tyson said returning Sceptile. "Let's ride Flygon." "Go Shiftry" With a cry they stood ready to fight. "Shiftry I know you have a disadvantage but please give it all. Use Shadow Ball" Shiftry nodded and fired the black ball at Flygon who was in the air." "Flygon don't let him get close use Dragonbreath." The attacks collided and threw up a cloud of smoke. "Use the smoke to your advantage, Steel Wing" Flygon blew through the smoke and zeroed in on Shiftry. "Shiftry Bullet Seed try to slow him down" the seeds flew at Flygon who was being pelted. "Hang on Flygon started spinning like we practiced and throw him up into the air" Flygon started spinning and at the speed he went the attack got deflected. Flygon smashed into Shiftry and sent him flying. Now in the air Flygon got above Shiftry "Now Flamethrower do not hold back at all" Flygon launched the fire attack and Shiftry was knocked out before he hit the ground.

"That's 2-1 for Drew he's doing great" Max said. "Don't get too confident Max Tyson did not get here being weak" Gabby said.

On the field Tyson recalled Shiftry. "I'm impressed Drew. But now it's time to get serious go Haryiama" Tyson's third pokémon appeared in a flash. "Hm…Flygon I am going to need you tag out" Drew recalled him and contemplated who to send out. After a few seconds "Let's Ride Swampert" A lot of people were curious why he didn't choose another one. "Why did he choose Swampert now he has Swellow right?" May asked. "Only reason I see is he did not bring in Swellow. he figured that there was only one pokémon that Swellow could beat and that was Haryiama. Plus he is asserting he could beat Haryiama without a type advantage just like Flygon beat Shiftry with a ground type and with both grass types out Swampert could wreck shop" Brock mused.

"Interesting choice Drew but you won't beat me. Haryiama use Brick Break." "Swampert use Ice Beam" the beam connected but Haryiama plowed through the Ice Beam and connected. "Ice attacks won't work on my Haryiama it has the ability Thick Fat" Tyson said

"Cuts down Fire and Ice attacks…darn it…Swampert use Muddy Water" Swampert's eyes glowed a large wave of water grew up behind them and swallowed the field and Haryiama.

"Follow up with Take Down" Swampert charged as Haryiama recovered "When he gets in close use Seismic Toss" Swampert was caught by surprise as Haryiama grabbed him and tossed him halfway across the arena. He was still conscious but was now struggling to get up. "Swampert come on get up" "Finish him off with Focus Punch" "Swampert get up please" Drew said losing his composure slightly. Haryiama came down and hit Swampert throwing up a cloud of smoke. "SWAMPERT" Drew called out. When the smoke cleared Tyson and the crowd were in shock. Haryiama's fist was being held by Swampert's arms. In addition he was glowing blue indicating Torrent was activating. Drew looked shocked then gained his confident grin. "My faith in my pokémon is rewarded now Swampert toss him away" Swampert judo throw Haryiama into the ground. "Now use Hydro Pump" Swampert took a big breath and the Torrent powered attack at close range completely destroyed Haryiama and knocked him out. With the score 3-1 Drew returned Swampert and returned to his bench so the field could be switched. 'Three down but Swampert took a beating. Flygon might be ready to go. I want to save Manectric for his Meowth. Cacturne might be next. Haryiama I don't know when I can use him'

In the stands the group was talking about the match. "So who do you think Drew and Tyson will send out" Misty asked. "If I know Drew he is saving Manectric for Meowth Tyson doesn't have any water or fliers he wouldn't leave him out of the fight" Ash said. "You think he has a chance" May asked. "Oh yeah Flygon can still go Swampert might be banged up but he might be sending out next to buy Flygon more time to rest.

Intermission over Tyson sent out his Donphan. Drew undeterred sent out his Cacturne who looked ready to fight. "Donphan use Sandstorm" Donphan spun and kick up dust. "A good strategy Tyson but there is a problem. Cacturne's ability is Sand Veil good luck trying to hit it. "Cacturne use Faint Attack" Cacturne disappeared and reappeared behind Donphan and hit him. "I forgot about Cacturne's ability but you just lost the edge Donphan use Rollout" Donphan started rolling and hitting Cacturne picking up speed. "Why is Drew not attacking" Max asked and his friends were at a loss. Drew however was calm and composed. "Alright one more time" Donphan spun around one more time and targeted Cacturne. Cacturne however stood unflinchingly solid. "Now Cacturne" Cacturne lifted his leg and stopped Donphan cold to the shock of the crowd. "What…how" Tyson asked. "My pokémon are trained for any circumstances. Cacturne was especially trained to use his lack of mobility to his advantage. I had him trained like a soccer player his legs can stop a Graveler and have proof of that. Now Cacturne use Needle Arm" Donphan stood no chance as the Needle Arm stuck true and crashed into the wall knocking him out. "4-1 where's you're A game Tyson" "I seem to have run into a team that can counter my own. But I have faith in my pokémon. Go Metagross.

'Metagross…great, Absol would have been good here and I have two tired pokémon. However I might have an idea' Cacturne time to tag out. Flygon time to ride again" Flygon stood ready for another round. "Metagross use Confusion" Metagross caught Flygon but he broke free. "Flygon use Flamethrower" Flygon heated up Metagross. "Now Steel Wing try to fly into Metagross" Flygon sped right into Metagross and hit him a couple of times. "Enough of this, Metagross use Psychic then Hyper Beam" Flygon was captured and was knocked out by the Hyper Beam. Drew however looked calm. "Flygon good job I'm proud of you. Ride again Swampert.

In stands everyone looked confused. "What the heck is Drew doing it's not like him to sacrifice his pokémon needlessly" Max asked. "It's almost like he planned these moves." Brock pondered. Gabby and Tori looked on wordlessly.

Swampert roared but it was weaker than before. "Metagross use Meteor Mash." "Swampert I know you're tired but hang in there use Hydro Pump" Swampert still empowered by Torrent launched its attack but Metagross spinning around blew through the attack and Swampert was sent flying. "Swampert can you still fight" Drew asked worried. Swampert surprisingly got up and stood ready to fight. "Alright then let me know if you can't take anymore" Swampert nodded. "Use your speed and use Hydro Pump" Swampert started firing his Hydro Pump at Metagross which struggled to dodge it. "Now Ice Beam" The icy attack froze Metagross but he quickly broke out of it. "Alternate both attacks" Swampert did so and Metagross got pissed. Unknown to everyone a chip appeared in Metagross' armor. "Metagross use Psychic" Swampert was caught as he tried Ice beam again. "Now send him flying" Swampert was sent colliding into the wall finally knocking him out. Drew walked over to where Swampert was "You did great. Your whole team is proud of you. Take a nice long nap you are going to need it" Swampert nodded and closed his eyes as he returned to his poke ball.

"Drew took that loss hard" Misty said. "Yeah but he might have set up to take down Metagross" Brock said.

"Where's the bravado before Drew its 4-3 and your pokémon are getting beat what's your deal." "My pokémon know what they got into you worry about yours" Tyson nodded. "Metagross use Psychic." Metagross tried to use it but Cacturne broke free easier than Tyson thought. "Tyson maybe you are losing it. Cacturne is part dark so psychics won't work on him" Drew said with a smirk "Now witness one of my favorite combos. Cacturne Double Team then Faint Attack" Cacturne's illusions started striking Metagross faster than he could respond. Cacturne hit a spot near the front left leg and Metagross roared and hit Cacturne out of the way. Drew saw the reaction and smiled. "Bullet Seed let's go" Cacturne fired at Metagross and a couple of the seeds hit the leg. "Now Needle Arm same spot" Cacturne moved in close and struck near Metagross's legs. "Metagross use Meteor Mash" Cacturne was too late as the steel move hit home. He stumbled as Metagross used Hyper Beam knocking him out.

"4-4 what the heck is Drew doing" Ash yelled out. "Hm your Metagross is strong. But the last three pokémon have set up to lose this round" Drew said confidently. "Let's ride Haryiama" he said to shock of the crowd. "Why now? Why does he bring him in now?" May asked. Tori however had a smile on her face and whispered to Gabby who gained a similar smile.

"You must be desperate if you're bringing Haryiama in now. Metagross use Psychic and bring him in close" Tyson said. "Haryiama do not struggle." The crowd was even more confused as Haryiama didn't struggle. "Now Hyper Beam when gets close" Metagross began charging up the Hyper Beam. 'Wait for it…Wait for it' "Now Haryiama break through and use Arm Thrust" Drew called out. Haryiama broke out of the confusion and through his harm at Metagross tilting the attack so it fired into the air and landed on its back causing the crowd to gasp. "Now Focus Punch on the exposed stomach" Haryiama gave out a loud cry and nailed Metagross causing a crater to form. Haryiama jumped away and waited for Metagross to get up. Metagross tried to get up but the injury to the leg caused it to collapse. "Your Metagross is finished" "How…how did you do this?" "Simple physics Tyson. Cold metal contracts and hot metal expands. When Flygon use Flamethrower it quickly expanded and melted to the point it becomes malleable. When Swampert used Ice Beam and Hydro Pump I was causing the metal to become brittle and start to crack. Which is where Cacturne came in and exposed the crack and injured the leg, all it needed was the right amount of force like a point blank Focus Punch to the stomach to cause it to break. Even if Metagross could move his leg would have buckled and for medical purposes he would have be removed. Either way it's 5-4. You're down to Meowth and I have one fresh pokémon" Drew said.

"I get it Metagross is a tough matchup type so Drew used science of metallurgy to break Metagross's shell and now he is one win away from facing Ash in the finals." Brock said. "Drew was always smart but to use strategy like that shows he has come far in his maturity. Something I think Ash should pick up on" Gabby said as Ash watched the match.

"Haryiama tag out let's ride Manectric." "I know you're my last pokémon but we can do this. Go Meowth." Meowth grew his claws ready to fight Manectric. "Use Fury Swipes" Meowth swung his claws hoping to get some damage in. "Manectric use Bite" Manectric bit down on the claw. "Now Spark" Manectric crackled with electricity and shocked Meowth and let go. "Meowth use Double Team" Meowth created several illusions. "Not going to work Shockwave" Manectric launched a large wave that obliterated all the clones but the real one wasn't there. "Iron Tail do it" Meowth hit Manectric from behind. Meowth suddenly felt numb as he became paralyzed causing Drew to smirk. "Tyson you may as well give up. You are on your last pokémon he's paralyzed I have one more and that has a type advantage. In chess this is where I say checkmate you had a great run and a great match" Drew pointed out. Tyson knew he was right but he was in a dilemma; Meowth's pride or his safety. In the end Tyson chose his safety. "No choice. Ref I surrender Meowth is too important and considering what my opponent has left I don't think I could win" With that the match ended to the delight of the crowd. Drew and Tyson shook hands and he knelt down to Meowth's level. "You had a good match I hope you feel better." Drew said as he held out his hand. Meowth looked at it and shook it surprising Tyson. "Good luck with Ash he will be tough" "Don't I know it." Drew said as he looked towards the crowd and clapping for them.

Day of the final: sunrise

Ash snuck out of bed and the holds his girls had on him. He needed to clear his head knowing he was facing his friend tomorrow. As he walked out of the pokémon center he saw Drew over by the lake shore facing the rising sun.

"Hey Ash" not even turning around. "Thinking about this match?" Ash nodded even though Drew couldn't see it. "It is difficult to fight it is more difficult to fight a friend. Morrison made the mistake and it cost him dearly." "I know but knowing we trained together makes this fight harder" Ash said. Drew turned his head slightly and smiled. "It just means it will be a great show" Ash felt a bit better. Drew turned around and started heading back. "Know that I am bringing my A game you better bring yours" Drew said walking by him. Ash nodded and looked back out to the lake. "Girls I know you're worried about him but leave him alone right now" Drew said as he got out of ear shot. "We want to support Ash" Misty said. "He looks like he needs it" May said. "Girls leave him be he needs to calm his mind I don't think he needs a distraction. The best you can do is cheering your lungs out at the stadium" Drew said walking away. Misty and May looked at Ash and just kept watching him.

Hours later at the stadium

The stadium was packed. Thousands of trainers and fans were packed in to watch the final of this tournament.

"Ladies and Gentleman, welcome to the finals of the Ever Grande Conference. Now then it is time for introductions. In the blue corner from Oakland he has dominated the field on his way to the final it is Drew." Drew walked out with Tori and Gabby flanking him. He waved to crowd who cheered, smiling the whole time. "His opponent in the red corner finished in the Top 16 at the Indigo conference and the Final 8 in the Silver Conference. From Pallet Town in Kanto it is Ash Ketchum." Ash waved wildly as Misty and May flanked him. In the stands Brock, Max, Morrison and Tyson were cheering the loudest. They walked up to the referee "Alright shake hands."

Drew and Ash locked eyes. Drew held out his hand and Ash shook it.

(Play Bon Jovi: Wanted Dead or Alive at this point until I say stop. I don't own it at all)

Drew and Ash turned at the same time towards their respective corners. A wind blew through the crowd as it quieted as a mysterious guitar played in the background. In simultaneous motions they removed their hats and over shirts and gave them to their companions who trailed behind them. They walked towards the edge of the field and turned towards the platforms. They pulled out their gloves and slipped them on and stepped on the platforms. Then they rose up to the desired position. The two trainers locked eyes as guitar faded away. (Stop the song here)

"Trainers are you ready" They nodded and as the ref signaled to begin the flames in the cauldron increased in intensity as if expecting a legendary match.

(Begin Hoenn Elite Four music)

"Grovyle I choose you" "Let's Ride Cacturne" The grass types took the field. "Already going for broke Ash" "Yeah I think we will be seeing a lot of draws. Grovyle use Leaf Blade" tightened his fists and the blades formed. "Very well, Needle Arm" Cacturne crossed his arms and glowed. "Ready when you are" "Grovyle charge in" "Cacturne take him down" What followed was two minutes of stalemated sword fighting that showed off a lot off power. It ended when Grovyle tripped Cacturne and he responded in kind by sweeping Grovyle who jumped. "Grovyle Bullet Seed" Grovyle fired but Cacturne blocked it. "I don't like doing this Grovyle return" Grovyle did so. "What's the matter Ash" "I can't keep up with you in the power department but I can still out speed you. Torkoal I choose you" Torkoal spewed smoke. "Cacturne Faint attack" "Torkoal use Iron Defense." Torkoal blocked the attack and fired an Overheat which scorched Cacturne. A body slam later and Drew was facing his first deficit of the tournament. "Impressive Ash our training has paid off. Let's ride Swampert" Swampert appeared ready to fight. A Muddy water and Take Down later and Drew was tied with Ash. "Alright now Glalie I choose you" the battle was rejoined. The two conflicting Ice Beams threw up smoke not causing damage to anyone.

"Change of strategy. Swampert return let's ride Flygon" shocking the crowd knowing Flygon was to Ice. "Flygon use Flamethrower." "Glalie slow him down with Icy Wind." The attacks hit both pokémon and both cringed. "Flygon shake it off use Steel Wing" Flygon flew in fast and struck true. "Swing around and use Steel Wing again and spin fast" "Glalie use Ice Beam slow him down." Flygon flew into the Ice Beam and collided with Glalie causing an explosion. When it cleared both Flygon and Glalie were down for the count. "Man what a match Drew. I haven't had this much fun in forever" Ash smiled. "2-2 and a whole host of tricks left I think it's time to stop fooling around. "Let's ride Absol." "Corphish I choose you" "Absol Shadow Claw" "Corphish Vicegrip." The two attacks collided and struggled for dominance. "Absol use Slash" "Corphish grab claw and send him flying" Corphish dis so surprising Absol and flung him. "Now Bubblebeam" Corphish fired and hit Absol" "Absol Double Team. Absol turned into illusions and surrounded Corphish. "Not this time. Corphish start break dancing and fire Bubblebeam into the illusions" Corphish did so as each of the illusions were dispersed. "Where is he?" Ash asked. "He doesn't have Dig so no underground. Left…right…" "Above ya Absol use Slash." With the momentum Slash hit Corphish and created a crater. Corphish was knocked out thoroughly.

(Pause music)

With the score 3-2 intermission was called. Ash and Drew walked back to the bench where they fell in heap. "Man that was exhausting" Ash said as Misty got him a bottle of water and May massaged his shoulders. "So any strategy for the final three" May asked, taking delight in massaging his shoulder. "Yeah find a way to beat Absol. He has switched up his team between each round. Only one I know he has left is Manectric. He could have Haryiama or Swellow" "That sounds smart Ash." As he got up for the next round, Misty pulled him back and kissed him. "Win or lose you are our champion…never forget that." Misty said as May hugged him. Pikachu stayed with the girls.

Same time

Drew was chugging water down. "I knew Ash was tough but to force Flygon to draw and knockout my Cacturne" "What can I say we trained him well" Gabby said. "Who do you think he will send out next?" Tori said "Don't know but I best be ready" Drew said as he got up. "Drew" he turned to both girls "Be careful" they both said. He smiled and walked back.

Now on the field Grovyle made an appearance while Absol took the field again. "Grovyle use Bullet Seed." "Absol use Faint Attack" "Not going to work Grovyle try to find him and then use Leaf Blade" Grovyle nodded and concentrated and found him after a few seconds. He struck when Absol was a few seconds from his face and swung the other one like a guillotine knocking Absol out.

"Damn Ash you put me in a tight spot. "Ride Again Swampert" Swampert in its glory took the field. "Grovyle use Leaf Blade" "Swampert counter with Ice Beam." Grovyle got through some of beam was caught frozen by the brunt of the attack bringing the score to 4-3 in Drew's favor. "Now use Take Down" Swampert nailed Grovyle and knocked him out. "Good job Grovyle go Swellow use Peck" "Swampert block the attack as best you can" Swampert blocked most of the Peck. "Use Muddy Water Swampert." Swampert surfed on the attack "Swellow Aerial Ace through the water" Ash said thinking quickly. Swellow hit Swampert going up and came down hit him again sending Swampert to the ground knocking him out" "Damn Ash I think you can beat me with the score at 4-4. Let's Ride Swellow" Drew's Swellow appeared and took flight. "Swellow Quick Attack" "Swellow you do the same match up move for move." Both Swellows fought like predators and fought all over the arena. The fight ended when the two tired pokémon were ordered to use Aerial Ace. They both collided and fell to the knocked out cold. "5-5 Drew who do you have left" Ash called out. "Who do you think" Ash nodded

(Stop elite four play Hoenn Victory music)

"Pikachu lets go" "Let's ride Manectric" the crowd was going crazy as the last battle of the tournament was ready to take place. "Pikachu Volt Tackle" "Manectric use Spark charge at him." They collided and bounced back. "Manectric use Shockwave" "Pikachu Thunderbolt" The two attacks collided again and they were starting to take their toll. "Hang on Manectric get in close and use Bite" "Pikachu stop him with Iron Tail" They collided once more and they were starting to get tired. "One last attack Ash to decide the champion" Drew called out. Ash nodded "Manectric" "Pikachu" "THUNDER MAXIMUM POWER" With a loud roar the two electric pokémon launched their attacks and collided with each other. There was a huge power struggle. It was a question of who wanted it more. "Pikachu come on buddy" "Manectric you can do it" the two pokémon roared as the attacks exploded and threw up a cloud of smoke. After a couple of minutes the dust cloud cleared showing Pikachu still standing and Manectric collapsed in front of him. "Manectric is unable to battle the winner of the Ever Grande Conference is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town to the roar of the crowd.

Both trainers looked on in shock and disbelief. Drew because he lost and Ash because he won. The platforms lowered as they stood their motionless. It was until Misty glomped Ash and Tori grabbed Drew's shoulders that they snapped out of it.

"I won…I won I WON" Ash cheered and spun Misty around in pure happiness. Pikachu jumped into their embrace as they stopped spinning around. "You did it you're a champion Ash" Misty said kissing the daylights out of him.

Over by Drew he had walked to Manectric. "You and all my team are the best. Don't let this battle get you down. We can get him next time" Drew said as he returned Manectric. Drew looked over to see Ash celebrating and walked over.

"Hey you" Ash turned to see Drew Tori and Gabby walk up "Great match cannot wait to do it again" Drew said holding out his hand which Ash took with enthusiasm.

Later on with their friends watching and Misty and Tori up on stage the two trainers got their trophies. Drew got a gold plate with jewels in it (Think Wimbledon's Women's trophy for the winner don't know what the male runner-ups get). Ash now stepped up to Mr. Goodshow "We have been waiting for you to win one Mr. Ketchum what do you plan on doing now." "Home then training then I don't know" Mr. Goodshow thought about it "I got an idea but let me get in touch with the person ok" Ash nodded and turned around. Ash motioned for Drew to join him and as one they raised their trophies in triumph to the clapping of the crowd. They may be the champions of Hoenn but the adventures is just getting started. Stay tuned for the Journey of the Dreamer.

END OF CHAPTER

UO: Finally got it done consider it a late b-day gift from me. It took so long the fight ended and my actors are sleeping. Oh well

New Powers

Pisces: Sign of the Twin Fish and the last of the twelve signs time wise. They are the sign for those born between February 19th and March 20th. In this form Zodiac gains Hunting fish knives and is his primary swim form.

Aquarius: The Water Barer. Sign of those born between January 19th and February 20th. Despite its name and certain anime, it's a masculine air element. New agers use this to denote a change in the astrological age. In this form he can fly using water propulsion.

Preview: With Hoenn complete Ash returns to his hometown. But the reunion is short-lived as monsters attack Pallet. What's more a new challenge appears for our trainer duo. What will happen in the Battle Frontier? Stay tuned

Next chapter: Frontiers of the home front

One more thing I will be splitting time between this and my Bleach AU story. So updates might be slow. Alright its 130 here and I got a concert to go to tomorrow.

So with that I leave you the immortal lyrics by Bon Jovi which I don't own

I'm a cowboy…On Steel horse I ride. I'm Wanted….Dead or Alive.

OSPREY…SWOOOOSH (Rides the wind behind the mysterious guitar sound)