It's been a year this fic was published, and two months late that I realized it. XD I really wanna thank all of you readers, you devoted a portion of your precious time to read this.

Thanks a lot for the reviews and support on the last chapter. It was 3 months in the making. And next time you see, Ash's trio like that, it will certainly be a better chapter that I promise.

Okay, so here we are, sharing some of Ash's final moments in Kanto, from where he's proceeding to Johto, and is currently burning some time in Viridian City. But he's not the one who leaves a task unattended. Since he's already in Viridian City, there is one tourist spot that he has to visit.

So let's find out, where does his one track mind take him this time.

Oh Yeah, this Chapter holds reference from Chapter 5.

And also, it's the first full six-on-six battle.

Ash's Roster- Pikachu, Primeape, Torterra, Noctowl, Butterfree, Typhlosion, Seismitoad.

Viridian City…

A city of wide avenues and small places to sit and eat, to relax as folk went about their day. There were the sky towers in the centre, what was once thousands of homes now took up less ground space than an old shopping mall. These buildings that have seen the modern age pass, standing in silent witness, weathered rocks stretching toward blue sky. Pavements move as a great river of humanity, the roads rivers of cars. The rest was parks and wild spaces, a chance to walk among nature or enjoy the trails on bicycles. Oh bicycles? Let's not mention that. Or a charred bicycle comes to everyone's mind.

The Streets were filled with people aimlessly milling around, mother's pushing strollers with pale determination, pedestrians waiting impatiently at cross walks. Every now and then, a car sped now and then with a new metropolitan trumpeting, great pink edifices loomed, and suddenly a sunbeam, a gleam of glass, would stab him painfully in the pupil. The city had turned into a vast, intricate, labyrinth of noisy, streets and alleys.

Kicking back, Ash and Pikachu were chilling out in a café huddled despondent among the huge city buildings. A cup of coffee in his hand, and a bottle of ketchup in his paw. Viridian had greeted them like an old reliable friend. They just sat there, relaxing, staring at the confined streets of Viridian City, reminiscing of the events of their previous visits here.

Their train was expected to arrive at Viridian Terminal in an hour. And Ash, relentless, as always, opted to explore the newly developments of the city. But what could they probably cover in the span of an hour?

And one track mind is a one track mind. Nothing except food and Battling occupies Ash's interest. And where in this conurbation, only one place could satiate Ash's appetite for a Pokémon Battle.

The Viridian City Gym…

XXX

The only thing that hadn't changed was the Viridian Gym. The building sought out inspiration from the classical era and was mainly influenced by the antique forms of Greek and Roman architecture. History crawled from every crevice and cracks. The grand edifice featured columns, statues and a triumphant structure confirmed to be modelled after Arch of Constantine in Rome. Not to forget, the Gym Leader at one point of time was an Italian mafia lord.

At the threshold, stood a delicate marble fountain the soft gurgling of the clear water melodic as it resonated in the surrounding silence, defended by two sets of stairs on each side.

But those two iron doors, were the only reflection in Ash's eye. Everytime, he's been in that building, things had never really worked out for him. He fetch, not earned the Earth Badge in the gym. His roads never crossed with the Real Gym Leader in that building. After Team Rocket abandoned the Gym, Agatha was the acting Gym Leader. But she too retired three years ago, and her position in the Elite Four was replaced by Koga, the Fushcia City Gym Leader, as well as one of the Elite Four in Johto region.

And just beyond those iron doors, was a mystery Ash couldn't keep his tabs on. But standing in front of the majestic structure wouldn't stop the questions that were boiling in his mind. Therefore, wearing an acquiescent look, Ash swung the double doors open with ease, which opened with a loud creak and he took a few explicit steps inside.

Darker than Ash's personality was the hall they walked into. Blackness came like the thick velvet curtains of the theatre. It was as if the daytime had been one part of a play and the rest was to come after this intermission of night. Desolation was the only term conveying any suitable idea of its isolation inside. If only it could be anymore empty; absurd prejudice would grow against it. The only source of light was the slivers of sunlight streamed through the door that was left ajar, and the only sounds were Ash's cautious footsteps.

''May I help you?'' a grim voice from the darkest corner of the room, was evidence enough that Ash and Pikachu weren't alone.

With Pikachu perched on his shoulder, he turned in the direction of the voice. A small matchstick scraped against the sandpaper of the matchbox, illuminated the dimly lit gym. The figure, in whose fingers the match was ignited, was leaned against a pillar, Ash had just passed.

Bright light fell on his face, and the figure was revealed. Dark red hair whose bangs covered his forehead, draping hair in several wayward spikes, Eyes; narrow and cold that stared through Ash and Pikachu. He was the same age as Ash, maybe a two or three months older. He wore a dark purple jacket that suited the texture of the Gym, with several lines of cherry red on the outfit. A creeping grin at bay, the intention behind his perking lips wasn't something that could easily be ensured.

''You, the Gym Leader?'' Ash queried, unfaltered by the entrance.

''Are you the challenger?'' the man countered with another question, in the same manner.

''I don't see the Gym as a tourist spot, so let's skip to the introductions. I am AK, from Mt. Silver, and I challenge you for an exhibition six-on-six match!''

''The name's Silver. I'm the Viridian City Gym Leader. I accept your challenge.'' The man made his identity known frowned. ''But count this as a warning, if I don't see you worthy of my time, you are out of here on your ass. Got it?''

''You won't be disappointed,'' Ash retorted. ''But before we get to the battle, answer a couple of questions for me, Silver. How long it's been since the League has made you the Gym Leader?''

''Eleven Months,'' the gym leader replied immediately, giving a number for Ash to muse.

''Hmm…'' Scratching under his chin, Ash weighed up the fact. ''It's suspicious enough that the previous Gym Leader and owner of Team Rocket, Giovanni had relinquished the Gym years ago, and Agatha of the Elite Four was appointed as the acting Gym Leader. But a year ago, Giovanni suspiciously went missing, and without any evidence he was declared dead.''

''What's your point?'' Silver reacted, as if some secret of his was busted.

''That why did Agatha retire and vacated the position right after Giovanni's death? According to IPKL, Section 64, sub-section 14D, a Gym is separate entity of the Pokémon League and is managed and owned only by the Gym Leader. However, if a Gym Leader wishes abdicate this position, it is passed to the next of kin. Common examples are the Pewter City Gym and the Cerulean City Gym. But if the Gym Leader doesn't have a successor, the League appoints one for him, in case of retirement or death. And the retirement of Agatha was big news, but there was no reason mentioned why she gave up control of the Gym. And if the League had elected you to replace Agatha, that would have stirred big news, unless you are an heir to any of the Gym Leaders that have served here. You are not related to Agatha, because she had no family, which only means…''

''That I am Giovanni's son, is that what you want to say?'' Silver completed.

''Actually, I was going for the word 'Bastard', but sure…''

''Look, the Viridian Gym is now my responsibility and Team Rocket had nothing to do with this anymore. Nobody more than me wanted to finish them, but some lucky bastard beat me to it. It's a shame enough that tyrant's blood flows in my veins. So don't ever use the word 'Rocket' around here or you'll never get your Gym Battle!''

''Fine, no more Rockets or anything to do with them,'' Ash raised his hands, trying to cool down the enraged redhead. ''But 'Team' I can use?''

XXX

Soon, they were at the opposite ends of the battlefield. Fortunately it wasn't dark. Not that Ash hated darkness, but a little lights would be appreciated.

''You know, Viridian is one of the toughest Gyms, and you like, make money by the hour. You don't really have to sting out on the electricity you know…'' Ash did his best at advice.

''Just shut up and listen to the rules…'' Silver snapped, irritation quickly etching into his features.

''Very well,'' Ash comically pouted at the tone, looking away. ''Already am in the possession of the Earth Badge, but go ahead. Lay the rules on me.''

Groaning, Silver clicked, a Pokéball. ''Six on Six. Both sides are allowed substitutions. No items. No time limit. When either of us have no Pokémon left, loses.'' A momentary pause, unsure whether Ash had digested whatever Silver just said or not.

''I wonder if there are ears hidden behind that Lindsay Lohan hairdo…''Ash interposed sarcastically, causing Silver's brows to shoot for his hairline. ''Or maybe you didn't just hear that I already have the Earth Badge.''.

''And I thought Jimmy was annoying…'' Silver muttered, under his breath, before tossing the enlarged Pokéball on the field. ''You're up first!''

The silver avian-predator, Skarmory, circled around Silver's end of the field, its blade like wings, that carried the sheaths of three red elongated feathers were fanned out as it lazily circled around.

''Primeape, I choose you!'' Ash retaliated, tossing a capsule of his own.

Primeape appeared in a flash, fuming, in a battle stance pose already. Both fists were poised, and one foot in front of the other. Rage was quite visible in its features, both eyes leering at Skarmory. Noticing it had gained attention, Skarmory rather than wasting energy to and fro, descended to the field with a lower altitude.

''Good luck,'' Silver wished, as if those wishes were mandatory before commencement of the battle.

''I didn't realize luck was involved, and here I waited all my life, working on skills and training.'' Ash reciprocated, in quite disagreement.

''Don't regret later. Luck's the only thing that makes Trainer get this far,'' Ash's confidence broke a smile on Silver's face, quite an unsettling one. He sure was taking this clown for granted. Waving off, he made the first move. ''Skarmory, Metal Sound!''

''Skar!'' snarled the Armor bird Pokémon. A huge shudder ran from its and channeled through the rest of its body. Steel wings began to convulse, and that created an intolerant high-pitched grinding, piercing noise that reverberating beats through the walls of the arena. Primeape who was closer than anyone else, winced at the torturing clangour, trying to clamp its fists over its ears, bearing the unbearable screeching sound.

''I get it. Lowering Primeape's defenses right off the bat, to land a critical hit on a defenseless Pokémon. Guess, the guy likes to play it dirty,'' Ash began to analyze the battle.

''Now, Steel Wing!''

Skarmory swooped in, performing the dabs of the one giving the orders, at the lunging at the agitated Pig Monkey Pokémon, with its wing, coated in a polished, lustrous silver.

''Duck, and use Punishment!'' Chuckling, and unperturbed by the previous tactic, Ash countered.

Ash's poised command released Primeape out of its trance, as the Fighting Type opened its eyes to see the incoming Steel Type move exclusive for him. With years of experience as the reigning P1 Grand Prix Champion, bobbing down was no big challenge for Primeape, as it crouched down let Skarmory glide over its head, and with its punch that was emitting the dark aura, struck into Skarmory's belly with a fierce right hook.

''SKARR!'' the Steel Type yelped, its body exalted from a heavy toll from the jab. Its flying fluttered as it somehow managed to take the air.

''That sure looked like a nasty hit, even if it wasn't so effective'' Silver praised, toying with his flickers. Thanks to Ash's remark about his hair, he stopped.

''It was all thanks to you,'' Ash grinned a cheesy smirk.

''Hmm?'' Curiosity glinted in dark hues.

''Punishment is a move that doubles in power if stats are raised. But Primeape's hidden ability gave you the slip. When you made Skarmory use Metal Sound, it curtailed Primeape's Sp. Defense, but thanks to its Hidden Ability, Defiant, its Attack raised by two stages.'' Ash beckoned the numbers using his fingers.

''Hmm…they have stopped making Trainers like you. Skarmory, Night Slash!''

Wings coated in dark gleaming extremity, Skarmory neared its prey.

The Pallet native lit up at the compliment, but fully aware that he had to make a retaliation. ''Seismic Toss!''

Arms extended in a welcome, Primeape arrested its aerial adversary in a choking bear hug. Spinning the heavier Pokémon around in a loop, Primeape suplexed the Steel Type Pokémon, sending it skidding across the floor.

''Finish it with Fire Punch!'' Harsh command, but Primeape had to do its job.

With speed that belied its weight, Primeape delivered a fist wreathed in flames, deep into recovering Pokémon's jaw. Caught entirely off-guard the Pokémon was sent ricocheting across the field, skidding to a halt just before Silver.

Silver could only grit, at the pathetic loss. The first session of his chance at victory was gone with the wind. Admittedly awestruck by Ash's quick thinking, he spat at his Pokémon before returning it, holding a Pokéball.

''No offence, but even preschoolers could have done better,'' Ash boasted. ''Your Skarmory couldn't have hold off against Primeape for that long anyways. I won the 2016 Silver Conference with the tough guy.''

Primeape snorted, jumping about in triumph. It's jolly moment couldn't contain long as it was retrieved back into its PokéBall.

''You may treat this like a Game, but for me, I do this only to make my Pokémon stronger. Pokémon aren't to be treated like family or friends, they are just tools one should use wisely. Being nice to them doesn't get them anywhere. Friendship just holds them back. Only strong Pokémon can win the battles for you. Weak Pokémon…[FLASH]…''Silver's expressions faltered as he felt the flashing annexing his eyes. ''What are you doing!?''

Taking a few more shots of Silver on his phone, Ash brought the phone to his chest level before appearing to type on it. ''I got a buddy just like you in Sinnoh. I'm just texting him that I found his soulmate.''

Not sure if he should be insulted or weirded out, Silver stomped a foot, shaking his head as if to try to move on. ''Is this all a Joke to you?''

That got Ash's nose out of the device before he could press send. With another confident smirk, he jigged. ''Oh trust me, Ms. Grouch. You don't want me to be serious. I'm a way too powerful guy for that kinda approach.''

''You are a delusive idiot. Let me demonstrate my point.'' Another ball was thrown, revealing a Weavile.

''Oooh… Feels like my teeth rattling,'' Ash smugly clattered his teeth, imitating the act of being frozen, before hurling his own capsule forward. ''Torterra, I choose you.''

''Toooorrrr!'' The Continental Pokémon belched loudly, towering over Weavile with the authority of its size.

''A part Grass part Ground type against an Ice Type. I no longer doubt your sanity.'' Silver sighed, shaking his head.

''But are you confident enough in your Pokémon?'' Ash combated the last comment before raising a finger at the field. ''Earth Power!''

A brutish shank pummeled into the battlefield, sending golden cracks through the floor, in what looked to be a ferocious tantrum.

''Dodge it and use Metal Claw!'' Silver barked.

Not able to support itself on the quaking ground, Weavile lunged side-to-side, landing just short of falling prey to an earth-tearing explosion beneath it.

''Energy Ball!''

Not giving Weavile enough time to retaliate, Torterra blasted the Sharp Claw Pokémon with a jiggle green sphere congested with Kelly green energy. Once the smoke bloomed out, Weavile burst through it, toppling off the floor.

''Weavile, get up and use Ice Beam!'' Silver crossed his arms after his order.

''Counter that with Leaf Storm!'' Ash commanded, digging his arms into his pockets.

''WEAV/ TOOOOR!'' The Pokémon reflected their respective Trainers' confidence.

A barrage of sharp leaves prevented the crackling bolt of ice from reaching Torterra. A booming explosion consumed the two. As the smoke had just began to dissipate, Silver made his move.

''Ice Beam again!''

Another bolt of ice jetted forward, trapping the off-guard Torterra in a shimmering block of ice.

''Superpower!''

One could only imagine Torterra wouldn't have heard that command, but it was quite clear Ash was the one pulling the strings for this battle. He had a backup plan for every backup plan. The iceberg Torterra was froze in quivered. Cracks emerged and Torterra burst out of the slab, enveloped in a crimson aura, and thin shards of ice covered the field.

''Damn it…'' Silver punched against his open palm. ''Weavile, Night Slash!''

''Weav!'' the dark type's claws took a violet glow, a pivoting slash slammed into Torterra's skull. But Torterra was still under the effects of Superpower. With a duck of its head and raise following after, the icy assailant was tossed silly into the air.

''Shame that you can't couldn't take out Torterra, even after handing everything to you in a plate. Even after harsh reduction in Torterra's stats after moves like Superpower and Leaf Storm, you barely marked a scratch. And you talk about strengthening your Pokémon through dictatorial methods. It's so simple, really.''

''The Battle isn't over yet. Weavile, Metal Claw!'' Silver argued back.

Finding its ground, the dark type let out a soft prowl, elongated claws took a bright silver shine. No matter how hard Torterra's shell was, it was now Weavile's ambition, to punch a hole in the Continental Pokémon's defenses.

''WEAVILEEEE!'' it yapped, as it rushed forward, metallic claws ready.

''Leaf Storm, full power!'' Ash instructed, with an apathetic shrug of his shoulder.

The grass type leaned forward, unleashing it's full, unbridled fury from the giant tree atop its back.

''It's huge! Block it with Ice Shard!'' Silver called out in panic.

Eyes shot up in fear, as Weavile watched the deadly grass type tornado advance towards him. Switching to the ice type move, a huge slab of ice was chucked in front of the Weavile as a shield, energy of the Metal Claw wasted. Weavile chose to fire its blast, but the maelstrom of leaves swarmed its body left it blenching. Ice was crushed, and Weavile was sent soaring back to where it had commenced the battle. Only this time, unconscious.

Silver grumbled, at the pathetic state of his Pokémon. he just wasn't able to connect the dots, that it was he who was responsible for the loss, not Weavile. He returned Weavile, and grunt at his opposition.

Just who is he? And how does he know what move I'm gonna make even before I make it. He's got the same stench as that Jimmy kid. I can fare against Lance long enough, but this guy is on a whole different level. Maybe, I'm just taking him too lightly. He doesn't look like a Champion material, but I have already made that mistake before. I have to bring my A Game into this.

''Let's go, Shuckle!'' Silver tossed his next Pokéball.

A small slimy yellow turtle appeared on Silver's side of the field. In front of other turtle, it was a comparison of a stone against a boulder.

A Shuckle? I guess he'll play this defensively. Shuckle's offenses are hidden in its defenses. I gotta watch out for Power Trick or Guard Split. Those two moves are like a bust in the balls. Plus, the Pokémon's slow. I bet it knows Gyro Ball. But luckily I just happen to have the Pokémon to square off against that wanna-be turtle.

Two Pokéballs in each hand, one used to recall Torterra back and another was chucked high. Noctowl appeared before Shuckle, with a soft chirp of its own, and took its strategic position before the Mold Pokémon, legs joined by wings, red pupils staring at Shuckle befitting a witch's cat. Shuckle too, lowered its brows at the emblem of wisdom, the reclusive and silent hunter. Equations were running in both trainers. While Noctowl had the upper hand with it being the Flying type, it wasn't hard to forget Shuckle was part Rock Type which are effective against Flying Type.

''In the sky, Noctowl!''

The Owl Pokémon let out a series of low hoots, four, possibly five and before opening out large and rounded wings. Beating its wings furiously, the absolute lord of the night kicked up a few dust before soaring above the field.

Ash's silence was enough to tell Silver he didn't wish to make the first move.

''Start off with Stone Edge!''

Shuckle commenced the battle, launching a summoned bevy of rocks at Noctowl.

''Hyper Voice!'' Ash smirked, gesturing a hand forward.

Opening its beak, Noctowl let out a ear-splitting shriek, Shuckle's ears pinned back in response. The amplitude so high that the stones that pelted against the sound waves burst into rubble. Gnarling in anticipation, Silver made the next command.

''Withdraw!''

Shuckle withdrew its limbs back into its shell, which again took a bright crimson shine.

''Air Slash!''

Spinning both of its raised wings, Noctowl conjured an orb of contained twister, roughly the size of a Soccer Ball. Shuckle was ambushed by the very assault on its shell head-on, tossed off further into the field.

''Withdraw again!''

Still within its protective shell with plenty of frustration to burn, the armor took again a crimson glow.

''Hyper Voice!''

Noctowl screeched again, pummeling the hidden turtle again with devastating sound waves. The hard shell was sent tumbling across the floor.

''Withdraw once again!'' Silver reprised.

No matter how desperate Shuckle was to make an attacking move, it had to oblige with its trainer's command. It one again beat a hasty retreat under the shield of its shell, waiting patiently for Silver's next command.

Using Withdraw thrice in a row, he's raised Shuckle's stats by three times. He's got to be using Power Trick. That's for sure. Come on Silver. I know what you got hidden in there. Come on, Silver. Do it! Make the move.

And finally…

''Power Trick!'' Silver grimaced, as if this trick would be his last resort.

Letting out a soft gurgle, a red unobtrusive glow sheeted Shuckle, as it switched its defenses to offenses.

''I knew it!'' Ash laughed, fingers pulled into a fist and the same arm was thrown outward. ''Noctowl, Psych Up!''

In the same turn, another faint blue glow surrounded Shuckle, and the same glow enveloped around Noctowl.

''The Hell!'' Silver flared. Just how does he have a counter attack for my every move? It's like he already knows what move I'm gonna make even before I make it!

''I had anticipated from the beginning your Shuckle might know Power Trick. Three times Withdraw, and it was crystal clear. And luckily, we have experienced that strategy before. That's the reason my Noctowl knows Psych Up. The stat changed was mirrored instantly. So when Shuckle switched its Defense Stat into Attack Stat, Psych Up plagiarized those Attack Stats as well.'' Ash narrated.

''Good plan you had in there. But only Noctowl's Attack has raised, not its Defenses.'' Silver noted. ''Shuckle, Gyro Ball!''

Still under the protection of its shell, Shuckle twisted into a fierce, purple coated spin, and launched itself at Noctowl.

''Extrasensory! Lift it and throw it!'' Ash crossed his arms, as he looked upon.

With it out possessed genuine psychic powers, Noctowl cast its psychic powers on the gyrating Bug Type, stopping it dead in its tracks, and throwing it back where it came from.

''Withdraw again!''

Shuckle again took shelter inside its shell, before it reached the land.

''Sky Attack!''

Noctowl spanned its wings, a low thrill gradually building into a high-pitched cry, as light began to envelop the owl. It swept down, emanating a beautiful glow. The shell that was its target was within its sights. The carapace was sent toppling by the aerial assault. Yet, it wasn't enough to pull Shuckle out of its refuge.

''Sticky Web!''

Just as Noctowl had entered the orbit of danger, Shuckle's head ejected the shell, and it spewed out a slew of silk that quickly took a patterned form, one layer of web quickly circling the next. The soaring Noctowl, much to its horror, found itself, snagged and enraptured in silk, robbed of its freedom of movement.

''Now, Stone Edge!''

Shuckle calculated its aim with an almost minimalistic angle, aiming directly at the trapped Owl Pokémon. The blast hit its mark, earning a pithed crow of pain from the other Pokémon. That made up for the battering the Bug Type had received, Shuckle decided. Dust and smoke left, revealing Noctowl bruised but still standing on its talons, one eye closed and another eye glaring daggers at Shuckle. It was still captured in the rope of silk around it, but it didn't tend to struggle. It was certain that it's eyes were enough. After all, anatomical features have more than one function.

''It's still standing?!'' Silver gaped at the sight.

''I'm sorry. Was that your Grand strategy? Immobilize and then attack…''Now it was Ash's turn to moue, but something in the strategy brought him an opening. ''But wait, not a bad idea. How would you feel, if I tell you, Noctowl will win this round without moving?''

''Like you are full of yourself!'' he spat.

''Just glad that you don't gamble. Noctowl, Hypnosis!''

''Withdraw!''

Shuckle could hide all it want, but it's senses weren't hidden from a predator with super senses. Even before Shuckle could retreat into its shell, several hypnotic rings were consigned inside Shuckle's hideout. The Mold Pokémon caught in its tick tock spell, eyes enchanting the Bug Type, that it fell into a deep slumber.

''Extrasensory!''

Flashy rings all across the color spectrum shout out of the imprisoned Noctowl's eyes, casting a sort of prismatic beam on the sleeping form of Shuckle that hefted it out of the floor, into the air. With psychic powers embedded into it, Noctowl spun the bug type into a tornado, and slammed it hard on to the field. The appendages of Shuckle slowly crawled out, and in one of them was its head poked out, with swirls in its eyes. That was all to its participation in the match.

''Great job, Noctowl!'' Ash walked over and praised, as he cut the silky ropes with a pocket knife he carried. Regaining freedom, Noctowl ascended into the air for a lap of victory, before it was recalled in a flash of light by its trainer.

''Don't celebrate yet! This battle isn't over!'' the redhead snapped, before raspingly returning his Pokémon.

''Dude, take a chill! Take a break! Take another tampon!'' Ash back to his puns again. Red wasn't just seen in Silver's hair but also in his entire face. Not embarrassment; but seething anger.

''Enough of your stupid jokes! This battle will turn in our hands!'' Furious enough, and almost lost it, Silver was quick enough to throw his fourth Pokéball forward. ''Go Crobat!''

From the pokéball sprang a medium-sized, purple, four-winged creature. Unlike all its predecessors, it wore not a smile, but a scowl typical to his species. A Crobat hovered in the middle of the field, flapping his wings expectantly.

Putting away Noctowl's Pokéball away, Ash scrutinized the situation, ears fully attentive to Crobat's flapping of wings and eyes fixated on the Poison Type.

Silver's mad enough to make hasty decisions, but that doesn't mean I can loosen up. Of all Pokémon I have at the moment, no one can rival Crobat's agility. Typhlosion and Seismitoad are ground players.

Amidst his thoughts he pulls out a PokéBall, and stares at the capsule grimly.

I don't want to use Pikachu. But this one still needs a lot of experience. So I'm gonna bank my chips on this one.

Clicking the Pokéball, he released another Pokémon. ''I choose you!''

Bursting out of the beam of light, the floating insect appeared in a flash, ''Free~'' humming its usual cry as it fluttered above, showing off its speed. Butterfree, not to be mistaken for Ash's second Pokémon. This Butterfree was the one that Ash had helped evolved in the Wayfarer Islands. Not long ago, it was reunited with Ash and Pikachu in the Unova region and decided to join his team. But even to this day, just the sight of this Butterfree, made Ash and Pikachu nostalgic.

''Quiver Dance!''

A bright glow illuminated Butterfree, leaving faint afterimages as the pokemon buzzed about in the air.

''Don't just flap your wings! Use Acrobatics!'' Silver commanded his Pokémon in a dictatorial manner.

''Aerial Ace!''

A purple blur zig zagged before it missiled towards Butterfree. However, Butterfree was already upon it halfway, battering the other flying type with an imperceptible head butt, before the bat could retaliate.

''Shit! Shouldn't have gone for a head-on attack after Quiver Dance. Now all its stats are raised!''

''Clear your mind, Silver.'' Ash warned. ''You are edging into hastiness.''

''Don't patronize me, Asshole!'' Silver thundered brusquely. ''Confuse Ray!''

Ghostly ghoulish orbs danced around Butterfree.

''Absolute Giovanni…'' the dark trainer huffed, insulted. ''Butterfree, obliterate them with Psychic!''

The pokemon's eyes glowed pink, its own mind willing the each eerie orb to burst them into sparkles.

''Cross Poison!''

As Crobat's upper wings were free, this was an easy enough task. Rearing back only to cross its wings powerfully, a short burst of venomous energy was splayed out with the attack.

''Dodge with Aerial Ace!''

Butterfree quickly pursued Ash's command, a quick loop increased its momentum and evasiveness as it avoided the venomous projectile by inches.

''I'll get you! Haze!'' Silver cackled.

Flapping its wings furiously, Crobat summoned up a purple fog to obscure its movements. The bat was all and well prepared to slink off into the shadows…

''Now attack with Acrobatics!''

True that couldn't be evaded but could be fought. Even in the thick cloud, quivering of wings could be clearly heard, and with Butterfree's ingenious mechanisms of senses, it was easy for the Butterfly Pokémon to pin point Crobat's location.

''Electroweb!''

Butterfree fluttered forward, shooting out the electrified spider web that flew into the smoke cloud, tingling in with sparks around the surface. An excruciating shriek echoed inside the smog, as the electric net engulfed Crobat. The shockwave consumed Crobat's figure, its body intertwisted in the electric webbing, tasing the bat everytime it attempted to break free.

''What the-!?''

''Come on! How can something like this get past you? You should know that Butterfree's special ability is Compound Eyes that raises its accuracy by 30 percent.''

''I know that, you idiot. I just hadn't expected a Butterfree to use an Electric Type move.'' Silver roared, as if he was considered oblivious to knowledge of Pokémon.

''Oh! Then this you might expect… Psychic!''

Butterfree wailed once more, channeling the full extent of its psychic power to telekinetically slam the zapped Pokémon on the ground, dazed into unconsciousness. Observing the victory, Ash couldn't help but grin. He held out his arm, and Butterfree took the hint, perching on his arm.

''You did great for your first Gym Battle, Butterfree.'' Ash praised, also gaining Silver's attention in the process.

''Free~'' it cooed, disappearing as the red light sucked the Butterfly Pokémon back into its PokéBall.

''Return!'' Silver snarled, calling back the bat in a flash of light. Now this was frustrating. Just how can his Crobat of such a high merit be bested by an amateur Pokémon in its first participation in a Gym Battle, that too the toughest Gym in Kanto.

Just where did this guy come from? He's so strong he's making me look like a child. He can give Lance a run for his money. I couldn't take out even a single one of his Pokémon and here I'm with just two left. Never before I have been put down beyond third. He deflects all our attacks, breaks through our defenses, catches us off guard. It's like he's already foreseen this battle and knows it's outcomes. I don't know if I can beat him. I doubt even my best can beat all six of his. But I'm still the Gym Leader and I have to do my role.

''Let's not waste any more time. I gotta train to catch. Seismitoad, I choose you!'' Ash asserted, his Pokéball already burst, light materializing in the form of a Pokémon. Ash's Seismitoad took the field, ''TOOAADDD!'' it croaked, flexing its arms out with a guttural roar as light around it dissipated.

Silver narrowed his eyes up and down the Pokémon, and pulled out a PokéBall that contained the Pokémon he felt would be a suitable matchup. With strategy that hadn't surfaced on his face yet, Silver got out another PokéBall and called forth his fifth pick of the Battle. ''Alakazam, go!''

Ash watched intently as the Psi Pokémon, landed on its feet with a medium thud, taking up a calm defensive stance with its spoons. Alakazam, known for its intelligence, took up the idea that this was a formidable opponent, and hence help up its spoons, ready in a battle stance.

I gotta keep in mind Alakazam's ability is Synchronize. Even if Seismitoad manages to poison Alakazam, we'll be inviting trouble for ourselves. I gotta play this carefully.

''You have a unique portfolio of Pokémon. But by the looks of it, one can already ascertain what type it is.'' Silver commended. ''Energy Ball!''

Alakazam connected it's spoons together and formed an effervescent teal orb of natural energy in front of it. In a matter of seconds Energy Ball was reached to the limit of its size and was launched at Seismitoad the aim hit right in the chest. It elicited a brief smoke, but Seismitoad was still revealed to be standing. It was hit sure, but it seemed by a beach ball, not the super effective Energy Ball.

''Hydro Pump!''

A powerful jet of gushing torrent shot out of the Pokémon's large mouth.

''Redirect it up with Psychic!''

Strictly focused, its mind boosted its psychic powers as a telekinetic wave halted the incoming stream of Hydro Pump. Spoons were used as conductors, the Hydro Pump betrayed its executor as it was diverted in the opposite direction. The torrential beam of water managed to strike Seismitoad head-on. The part water type just skid back a few steps, unharmed otherwise taking pride in the strength of its own move.

Taking notice that Silver may still not have caught up, Ash coughed before explain ''Aside from the psychic part, I should have let you know, that Seismitoad's hidden ability is Water Absorb.''

''That's not going to stop us! Energy Ball again!''

The Vibration Pokémon was quick enough to slap away the second chance at the Grass Type move, just its bulbous arm was needed to send the Energy Ball exploding in other direction.

''Ice Beam!''

Sensing injustice that Alakazam had two turns in a row, Seismitoad gulped down a huge breath, inhaling every amount of air around it, before exhaling in a frosty burst of air and ice shards

''Teleport!''

Realizing that an attack was heading its way, a solemn grunt tranced Alakazam's whiskers. The Psi Pokémon focused its power into a multi colored light that encased Alakazam. The frosty beam narrowly came into contact with its intended target, Alakazam proved to be wily as it disappeared form the location where the Ice Beam just passed through thin air.

''Shit! Teleport's always a bitch!'' This time, complaints fell from Ash's mouth. ''Be alert, Seismitoad!''

Easier said than done! Who knows where Alakazam would strike from?

''Focus Punch and Teleport again!''

Making its presence known behind Seismitoad, a glowing blur of punch connected to Seismitoad's back before disappearing. The toad croaked, rocked by the powerful punch. Silver decided to stick with the same strategy for a few turns, before Ash had had enough.

''I just know how to deal with that, use Supersonic around the field, and trace it out with vibration!''

That sounded like a plan. Seismitoad acquiesced, the bulbs on its appendages began to vibrate. It opened its maw and released a huge screech. Fluctuations of these sounds bounced back from the walls of the Gym, its audibility could tear through the decibels. When Soundwaves made contact with its ear, the miracle of Teleport was disturbed and Alakazam revealed itself just a few feet from Seismitoad, cringing in pain from the Supersonic.

''Focus Punch!''

The sound waves faded away, and Alakazam raised its head back in posture for battle. It crouched, tightening its fist and mind, focusing a tremendous amount of striking power into the former. Once the attack was ready at disposition, Alakazam sprung towards the large amphibian.

''I think now's the perfect time for our combo,'' Ash concluded with a grin. ''Seismitoad, SONIC SCREAM!''

Charged bulbs on Seismitoad's limbs began to vibrate. Alakazam's fist collided against the Vibration Pokémon's sturdy chest. The force was enough to shove the water type a few steps back, but due to the resonance Seismitoad was producing, Focus Punch partially lost its focus and couldn't hold a candle to the mysterious invented move that had yet to be revealed. Seeing what was about to happen at point-blank range, the Alakazam loudly howled in vain. A high pitched throaty call, volleyed Alakazam in an airborne frenzy. The immensity of the sound waves was unbearable. The Psi Pokémon wailed, the sound gnawing off its ear drums.

Finally, Seismitoad couldn't produce anymore and Alakazam collapsed on the field, with dazed expression and swirling eyes for all to see.

''Return, you clod!'' Silver grimaced, his voice was laced with disgust. On the other side, Seismitoad too was returned as it had fulfilled its responsibility.

Now Silver was down to one Pokémon and the nemesis had all six, which were far from exhaustion. Usually Silver used to be on the other side of predicament. He had crushed many Trainer's in Johto and had shifted to Kanto in search of expectations. But there was nobody this strong. The strongest Trainer Silver considered before himself was Lance, but now maybe, he would have to reevaluate the rankings. But Silver atleast managed to take out two of Lance's Pokémon at their Battle in Mahogany Town, both being Dragon Types. But this guy was absurdly powerful, it practically made Silver think about how strong other Trainers would be whom he hadn't faced yet.

But now wasn't the time to look into demographics. The question was will Silver's last Pokémon be able to square off against all six of his or will it meet the same fate as others? While Silver was pondering this question, his fingers squeezed the last PokéBall in his palm. Sensing trouble from the sweat on Silver's brow, Ash was quick to suss out the strain Silver was adding on his PokéBall.

''I'm gonna throw a deal your way, redhead. Take out my last Pokémon, and you win.'' Ash negotiated, in such a way one could point he wasn't joking.

''I don't need your pity. You can keep that for yourself. I make the stipulations here. My last Pokémon is my strongest and can take out all six of yours!'' Silver hissed.

''Don't flatter yourself.'' Ash lamely purled.

''I ain't joking either!'' the redhead tossed his final PokéBall ahead, a bit with more enthusiasm than usual. ''Go Feraligatr!''

Silver's Pokémon burst with a thunderous glow. The large, blue gator appeared, entering with a loud, feral roar.

''So, it's been long since we have battled a Feraligatr,'' Ash announced, unclipping the last PokéBall from his trainer belt. ''Typhlosion, I choose you!'' he slung the capsule forward with confidence.

Out of the PokéBall came the third stage Pokémon of Johto's fire type starter, a perfect and substantial choice against Feraligatr. Feraligatr narrowed its eyes upon Typhlosion, and in an attempt of intimidation gnashed its razor teeth. There was a time where it had lost to a Typhlosion just like this one. And Feraligatr was gonna exact its revenge for the past in this battle. Typhlosion howled back in defiance. Oh, a challenge!

It stood on its hind legs burning flames roared from the red patches from the back to its neck. This would be one battle framed to take place in the finals of a regional League.

While Silver was apathetic for most of the battle, a slight observation piqued his interest. ''Hey, hold on challenger. Isn't Pikachu supposed to be your last Pokémon?''

''Nope…'' Ash nodded sideways.

''You mean to tell me you are carrying seven Pokémon?!'' Silver interrogated.

''The thing is I don't have Pikachu's PokéBall right now. We weren't using it anyway,'' Ash explained, scratching the mouse's chin as he cooed. ''So I clip six Pokémon in my belt and Pikachu on my shoulder.''

''And here I was hoping it will be Pikachu we would be battling against. It does look like your first!''

''I can't wrong you there, but don't worry. Typhlosion isn't too much for you!'' Ash taunted. ''Burn Up!''

''Ha! We still got the type advantage!'' Silver chortled. ''Rain Dance!''

Scorching cloak of flames enveloped Typhlosion, while Feraligatr in a howl of its name at the ceiling, brought forth dark clouds. A small pitter-patter of rain started falling from the sky, freckling both Pokémon's skin. The massive jet of flames that Typhlosion spewed, hit their mark, but the rain had already begun to douse them, and as a result, it had only half the effect it should have. Now bearing a few scattered scorch marks, Feraligatr looked more angry than hurt. Typhlosion on the other hand, wasn't pleased being drenched in the shower.

''And how did that work out for you all this time?...Focus Blast!''

Agitated, the Volcano Pokémon conjured a sizeable orb of sapphire energy, vibrating off power in its paws. It was reared back before being tossed forward.

''Slash!''

Still raring to go, Feraligatr snarled, slicing the Focus Blast with one clean swipe of its claws. Next the gator stampeded for Typhlosion, its claws poised to strike.

Ash thought aloud. "Now, we don't want it staying close. Crush Claw!''

In the heavy downpour, the claws slashed like blades tearing each other, in a battle of supremacy. Both Pokémon retracted backwards before being trapped in a up close attack.

''This isn't going to work, Hyper Beam!''

In a moment where time was the essence, Feraligatr threw its head around, firing a dark violet beam from its jowls that blasted across the battlefield without mercy.

''Rollout!''

It would be lying it wasn't intimidated from the horrible beam of energy approaching in its way. Moments from the close in, Typhlosion tucked its limbs and rolled its way into the destructive torrent of Hyper beam in a self-sacrifice attempt. The power of the normal type move pushed the bowling Typhlosion upon collision, but Typhlosion managed to firm its hold and propelled itself ahead. Its hide was incinerated but it took on the Hyper Beam and won, before crashing against Feraligatr, staggering it back, before spinning away and taking its position in front of Ash.

''That's the kinda stuff that gives me the identity…'' Ash smirked, looking across the fray.

''How is this possible?! Even after being reckless, it's still standing!''

Feraligatr was hunched over, panting, practically a sitting prey for Typhlosion.

"Now's our chance!" Ash declared, eyes wide and a hand held high. ''Rollout, second time!''

''SION!'' the Volcano Pokémon, made use of its tremendous mass, and once gain bowled its way into Feraligatr doubling the damage. The water type stumbled, barely maintaining balance. A third time made Feraligatr throw from its unwanted perch, colliding with the ground with a thud. And Typhlosion, retreated back to normal self, keeping its distance from Feraligatr.

''Don't rejoice yourself. We aren't done yet.'' Silver interrupted.

''That should be your catchphrase,'' Ash replied snidely. ''But I'm almost done. So whatever you have in mind, go ahead.''

''sion!'' the Volcano Pokémon agreed.

''Sure. Hydro Pump!''

Feraligatr dug his claws into the floor, preparing himself for the recoil that would come with the brutal burst. It opened its snout wide, and shot out a pulverizing jet of water, the downpour aiding in the vigor. The fury of Hydro Pump crashed against Typhlosion, blown back against the field from the pressure.

For one moment Silver anticipated Typhlosion was done for. It was over. Why not? Hydro Pump mixed with the support from Rainy Day against a Fire Type Pokémon. That could end any Fire Type's story. This anticipation couldn't stay long as grunts and wincing of Typhlosion retained his attention. But the Volcano Pokémon pushed itself back up to its feet, proving Silver wrong once again. But how? And then it clicked in Silver's mind, that after Burn Up, Typhlosion was a typeless Pokémon as long as it was battling. The challenger has certainly played this well.

''Slash!''

''Thunderpunch!''

Typhlosion had regained its bearings by now. ''Typh-'' it prowled. Sure that one hurt badly. When forged against Ash's Feraligatr and its fellow mate, Typhlosion had gained a penchant for enduring its Hydro Pump in the training schedules. But that was practice and this is a real battle. There's no mercy here. And Typhlosion knew it was tougher than that. And it wanted to prove to Ash that it can be in the same leagues as his Charizard and Infernape.

Tempered by the constant downpour, it reared back a paw, sizzling with electricity. All it had to do was to wait for Feraligatr to draw closer. And as the deadly set of claws rained down to strike, the paw that was furious with electric bolts was slammed against the mighty jaws Feraligatrs were known for. Wisps of grey smoke began trailing from the Big Jaw Pokémon, drawing conclusion to the hard fought round.

And finally the heavy rainfall dissipated on the fainted water type who fell at Typhlosion's feet, fierce eyes turned into defeated swirls. Moments later, it was disappeared in a crimson flash. Silver huffed, grasping the PokéBall tightly in his hand. There was a brief silence, as Silver stared at the PokéBall. And then in a soft murmur of appreciation he put the ball away.

On the other side, Typhlosion was too under the provision of appreciation before it was called away.

Clipping the PokéBalls back, both trainers stared each other in the eyes. No one spoke a word. Silence had been spouted like smog in the room. And then, Ash with a final bow turned around and walked away, knowing that Silver's eyes were fixated on his back. He didn't stop. He didn't slow. He just kept walking and in seconds was out of the room.

Silver stood there, he didn't move a muscle. He just leered down at the bruised field, wondering if all this time had he confused confidence with arrogance, and how many people paid the price…

I know it's very difficult to capture a full battle in one chapter, so I had to compress it. But just like Ash even I have to catch a train XD. So anything you find has wrong in this battle, please let me know via reviews and PM. Those of you who have read and think battle should have gone longer, I couldn't agree more. But Silver will return. Not in this fic but in 'True Bonds can Never be Broken.'

If this chapter satisfies you, then I would like to convey my gratitude and promises.

Questions to Author.

1. Is Ash gonna date anybody?

This has been one of the most frequently asked questions. As I have said before, this fic is a prequel of TBCNBB, and that's an Advanceshipping fic. Do not bother searching it. I haven't uploaded it yet. that fic is the reason I approached Fanfiction. But he won't date anyone in this fic.

2. You have made a chapter for every Frontier Brain but not Greta?

Now that's a question. I had made the Greta draft but accidently forgot to save it. My mistake.

3. When can we see more of Ash's superior Pokémon?

Ok. See after studying the ration of the number of Pokémon he has compared to the Trainer's he will be dueling against, I have created a model where each Pokémon of his will be battling exact 5 times. But his A Team like i.e. Pikachu, Charizard, Sceptile, Infernape, Krookodile, Snorlax, Greninja and Lycanroc. Each will have six battles each.

This was all. Please also read the list of upcoming chapters below.

Chapter 15: Violet City Gym Leader Faulkner (Being written)

Chapter 16: Liza of the Charicific Valley (70% completed)

Chapter 17: Azalea Gym Leader Bugsy ( will start working on it as soon as Chapter 15 is uploaded)

That's all for now folks! Happy Easter and thanks!