The match you've probably all been waiting for starts now. Hopefully it's up to expectations. Time for Chapter 21!
Chapter 21
A Final
"Today's battles were beyond exciting, wouldn't you say, Maika?" called the voice of Kalas from the television screen at the Pokémon Center. Ash turned his head to look, letting it offer a reprieve from all the madness around him. The Center was absolutely packed!
"Very much so! As I've said before, they offer quite a different fare of battle from those in Ceremonies," the commentator and announcer for the Leilani Ceremonies said in response. The two of them were both on the screen, like a couple of newscasters, discussing the state of the Alola League thus far. "However, I really love the intensity that they offer. Have you seen battles this intense before?"
"I've seen quite a few in my time," Kalas said with a look of musing. Ash almost had to wonder if he was referring to the Kalos Team Tournament, in a sense, but the man didn't clarify for any of the watching audience. "However, today's semifinal matches simply made me very excited for what the final battle tomorrow will bring. We truly have two heavyweight contenders. Of course, the topic that's rampant amongst the Champions and Kahunas is, of course: will anyone be able to take Silvally down?"
"Yes, that is the definite buzz," Maika stated. The picture on the screen shifted to show all of the Champions from the other regions sitting and watching what seemed to be Gladion's battle from earlier that day. If Ash was honest, he'd completely forgotten they were even attending the League, making him wonder just how closely they'd be watching him tomorrow when he hadn't even noticed (and whether they'd been paying close attention to him or others during their stay, as well). More images on the screen appeared, consisting of Silvally, which Ash and Pikachu watched closely. "It's gone undefeated so far, no matter the number of opponents it's taken on, making the rest of Gladion's team have quite the chance to rest up."
"Well, the one thing we know for sure is that if Ash Ketchum wants to have any hope of taking home the trophy, he'll have to topple Gladion's Silvally and its mysterious powers. Though, he's no slouch, either, after his handy victory against Hau earlier today," Kalas laughed out. Ash's lips twitched. He had every intention of being the one to bring Silvally down in battle.
"Ash, come on! The celebration is all ready!" Hau's voice called across the Center, officially drawing Ash's attention to the boy. He wasn't alone; not by any means. In fact, Ash was almost certain that everyone was there…or thereabouts, giving a reason for why the Center was so packed with people. For some reason, making your way to the finals when you'd done it once before was a big thing. Ash wasn't about to take it for granted, though.
"You guys didn't have to do all this, but thanks!" Ash said, walking forward with Pikachu. There was a dinging sound from the backroom of the Center and Nurse Joy opened the door to allow the rest of his team to step forward in rather cheerful states. They all dove right for him with cheers of joy. "Glad to see you're all lively, too!"
"Koorooroo!" Decidueye hooted out all too happily. He swept his wings around Ash in an almost smothering hug while the others all piled on him. Ash started to laugh.
"I know! But we've still got the next battle, tomorrow! Gladion won't be a pushover!" Ash assured them. They didn't seem to care all that much, reveling in the day's victory, though Ash knew they'd be just as ready for tomorrow and that battle that lay ahead. Knowing that, he looked up at all those gathered in the Center, with his friends having pretty much taken over the entire location, nary a trainer able to enter.
Of course, it had only been a couple hours since the match had ended, but that didn't mean Serena, Lillie, Brock and Cilan (who Ash had almost forgotten was there) hadn't spent quite the amount of effort in preparing a spread for everyone to eat and enjoy from the Center's kitchen. May was already helping herself, with Chespin at her side as Clemont and Korrina attempted to pull the little one away. Rotom was busy annoying some of the others that were there, particularly Seamus…at least until he, Sawyer, Rocky and Astrid figured out that it had recorded the entire semifinal battle against Hau, and looked to pull things up on the Pokédex within seconds.
Of course, there was more than even that group standing around and chatting as Ash noticed Miette calmly speaking with Bethany, Christopher and, to Ash's surprise, Mairin. From the snippets of conversation that Ash had heard, it sounded like Mairin had been trying her hand at Showcases since the season had started up once more, but had yet to win any Princess Keys.
"Alain's not exactly the best help when it comes to fancy moves…" she admitted with a sigh. Alain, from his distance away, seemed to tense up at the mention of that. Though, Ash had a feeling it might have had to do with the fact that he was talking to Paul, who could make anyone rather prickly. Said purple-haired boy offered a nod, though his eyes kept flicking to outside the Center, like he'd rather be training…or simply anywhere other than here. For some strange reason, Ash felt that Paul and Nanu could be friends…if one ignored the fact that Nanu didn't seem to care much for anything whatsoever.
Still more people were there, including Misty and Iris, who almost looked a little out of place in the rather large group, until two trainers that Ash vaguely remembered from the Kalos Team Tournament (was it Truce and Brent? He couldn't be sure) walked up and engaged them in conversation. Ash wasn't sure how well it went, mostly because he was drawn to Professor Sycamore there, having what looked like an engaging conversation with Meyer (eyeing his son with an impressed look, since Korrina had draped her arm around him) and Professor Kukui. Ash was honestly surprised they were all there, and he thought of calling his own mother. Those thoughts were dashed moments later.
"Reena! Leelee!" Acerola shouted, running in with abandon as yet more people came into the Pokémon Center. Ash turned to face them all, noting that while the Kahunas and Champions weren't here, obviously to avoid a show of favoritism, it didn't mean that certain others didn't arrive, instead, such as Lionel and Kahili. "I didn't get a chance to congratulate you, Reena! Nice job! You'll make a very cool Ali'i ka Leilani…at least for your stay here and however long that is."
"Thank you, Acerola," Serena said kindly as she and Lillie engaged the girl in conversation. Ash just turned to speak with the other newcomers there. Kahili wasted no time in placing a hand on Ash's shoulder and leaning against him lazily, while Lionel approached a little slower.
"Nice job out there, today," the older man greeted. He seemed to be alone, which could only mean that the rest of ARC was busy handling other things. "Sorry I haven't had the chance to get here earlier and all, but we've been busy. Organizing a group effort with people like Team Skull is a pain…If it weren't for Looker and the International Police, I don't know how we'd manage."
"That's okay. Are you planning on watching the finals?" Ash asked, frowning at the rather nonchalant Kahili. Lionel gave a sharp jerk of his head.
"That's the plan, though immediately after that we'll start to get moving. Professor Kukui and myself should fill you in tomorrow, after the match," Lionel waved off. Ash had to wonder just what he meant; Professor Kukui, along with some other words spoken were truly mysterious (though not the part about Lionel filling things in). "Well, anyway, I'm looking forward to the finals. Since Jack isn't around to watch you…I'd like to, in his stead. Assuming you don't mind."
"I've got no problems with it," Ash assured him. Though he was starting to have a problem with Kahili leaning on him, especially with the way she leaned over to grab some food. Lionel smiled and looked outside. There was no snow for the moment, the sun shining down on Mount Lanakila.
"Your father would be very proud of you, Ash," he breathed out. Ash offered a smile at that, but made sure to raise his voice to address Lionel directly.
"I know, but I'm not doing this for him," the raven-haired trainer made sure to speak simply. Lionel turned, blinking, while Kahili almost looked impressed. "I'm doing this, and I'm going to win, because that's what I've promised to do. It's not for me, but so I can understand everyone else: the person and Pokémon that I'm fighting, the people I've promised, those who support me. Everyone. That's what makes me a Pokémon Master."
"Isn't he the greatest?" Kahili said cheekily, giving him a noogie on the head. Ash finally swatted her away, able to extricate himself from the woman's hold. She shrugged things away and went over to Acerola and the others as she did so. Lionel chuckled and stepped forward.
"Yes, I suppose it does. It'll be an honor to fight alongside you one more time," the dark-skinned man assured him, holding out a hand for Ash to shake. Ash took it, Pikachu running along to put his paw in the center there. "I'm sure you'll wage an excellent battle tomorrow in time for the Day of Stars."
"I'll tell you, I'm looking forward to it, too, cousin. Woo!" Kukui called out, breaking away from his little professors' convention to stride forward. "These battles so far have been awesome; really reminds me of my younger years."
"Does it?" Ash chuckled out. He had a hard time believing that Kukui was "reminded" of his younger years. Either way, he didn't say much more than all that.
"For sure! Even Burnet said watching them makes me look way younger. Akela rolled her eyes at it, but what can you do?" Kukui laughed out. He glanced to the door before shoving his hands inside of his lab coat pockets. "Honestly, I'm so thrilled by everything that it's like I've got Anticipation. I'm technically not even supposed to be here. Gotta be impartial and all. But with the big battle coming up, had to come and see everyone. Guessing we're all set?"
"As we can be," Lionel noted, his eyes flashing just a little. Ash watched his face, wondering if he'd seen Serena's father at all, despite Gladion having informed him of everything that had been discovered at the Lake of the Moone. The celebration in the Center seemed to have quieted down a moment, like they were all listening in on the conversation that was being held between everyone. "I'm aware of what will be done to repair the Moon Flute. Though, getting around to all four islands…I could take Miss Lillie to Poni, but…"
"I'm sure Kiawe can handle Gladion getting to other places here on Ula'ula, same with Clemont and Bonnie," Ash assured him, folding his arms a bit. "Meanwhile, me and Serena have something a bit faster."
"Good, 'cause at least she will need it," Kukui chuckled out. The strange comment once more drew Ash's attention. "Then after the flute's repaired, presumably you'll all head to Poni Island again. Which makes the only issue getting you four and Nebby and all that to the altar, yes?"
"That all sounds about right. We can work out logistics tonight for transportation. Now, I'm sure Lusamine knows we're coming, but we do have your plan for that," Lionel noted. Serena and Clemont were now walking forward. Bonnie was behind, playing with some of the Pokémon in the room there, including Piplup. Lillie dragged even further behind.
"I think it's pretty brilliant! And it'll be a great way to celebrate while everyone moves into place," Kukui assured the man. Lionel nodded, but the two men soon realized that the trainers gathered there were all looking at them rather curiously. Kukui chuckled nervously. "Ah, but none of you have to worry about that. Just be ready to move out tomorrow afternoon, and we'll take care of the rest with a Quick Attack. We at least want the flute repaired before those portals open."
"Right," Lionel assured them. He quickly checked his wrist for the time and then sighed out. "Well, I guess we should follow up with the Kahunas, make sure they and the other captains are ready to defend their islands. Plus, the Champions will want to assemble at the altar following the battle."
"Right you are! Good luck tomorrow, Ash! Looking forward to a Heat Wave of a battle!" With those words, Kukui waved as Lionel escorted the both of them out with a shaking head. Ash just reached up and scratched at the side of his own head. He looked to his friends as the party returned into full swing around them, but they were just as clueless regarding the words spoken by the two men. Kahili also approached once more.
"Yeah, he's been talking like that since the start of this thing," she chuckled out, brushing some hair back. "He and Miss Akela definitely have something planned for after the finals tomorrow. I'm starting to wonder if it has something to do with keeping Lusamine's eye fixed on the event here while we all scurry about, getting our jobs done."
"Hmm…" Serena hummed out, tapping her chin thoughtfully at the comment. Ash met her gaze as the two seemed to have a silent conversation, wondering what it could be about. Hau, who was listening a few feet away, didn't seem to care that much, grinning as he and Pipi munched on some malasadas. Kahili laughed out yet again.
"Guess we'll find out tomorrow! I know you'll be brilliant, Ash. I trained you, after all, so I'll be sitting in the stands to see you win, and you better not let your brilliant teacher down." Ash rolled his eyes at his mentor's near-absence of modesty. She walked a little forward, staring out of the Pokémon Center. "This is a true battle for our world. Already, it's forced us to reexamine ourselves. But I know that all of you will pull through. Of course, I'll support you in any way I'm directed to, along with Hapu, Mina and all the others. You all just need to make sure you get into the Ultra Space."
"We will!" Lillie said emphatically, clutching her fists to her chest. "Not because the Tapus chose us, though…but because it's something we have to do." Ash nodded, thinking of the battle that was likely waiting for him there. Clemont stood forward.
"You guys support us from the outside, while Hau, Team Rocket and myself will protect the others that need to do whatever on the inside," Clemont insisted. "As long as we keep everything split up, then they'll need to take all of us out before they can say they've won."
"In the meantime, we'll drag Guzma and Lusamine out if we have to!" Ash assured her, lifting a fist up to Kahili, mostly as a means of giving her some assurance. She cracked a smile and nodded, though Ash had to wonder if she had some trepidation regarding the battle. Or maybe her body was simply shaking with excitement.
If Ash was honest with himself, he was almost trembling with anticipation over the next two days, as well. Usually, he was thrown into battle after battle, never thinking or having the time to think. Now, though, they had planned, and that moment they were planning for had nearly arrived. It forced him to have the need to bolster his own confidence and resolve, including what he'd said he would do when it came to Guzma. Serena and Clemont both reached up, putting hands on his shoulders.
"No matter what it is, we'll finish this together!" Clemont assured him, giving him that courage he felt he needed.
"Just like always," Serena added on with a wink, giving him determination. Everyone seemed to hear that reassurance, because they all cheered out, no one louder than both Hau and Bonnie. Ash was even sure that Team Rocket was part of that group over by the food table, still in their concession-selling outfits. Ash walked forward.
"Right! One more time, guys!" he said, throwing his fist into the air. They all emulated him, even Kahili, who had certainly come to know the expression of victory. Despite the boy not being there, Ash had to wonder if Gladion was sharing in that solidarity. Somehow, there was no doubt he did…or would, especially after tomorrow. "Let's all work together and stop the Ultra Beasts from destroying our world!"
"Yeah!" they cheered, except for the most reticent of people (mainly Paul, who scoffed and turned away). Lillie was the loudest, looking steely and determined for just who she'd have to face. In fact, she was filled with such determination that she turned to face Ash properly.
"Before we do, I just have one request," Lillie spoke out calmly. Ash stared right back at her, waiting for her to elaborate. She breathed in and then smiled, before bowing low, her ponytail bouncing on her head. "I want you to win!"
"Lillie…" Serena said, almost like she was surprised. Lillie didn't raise her head up as she continued on.
"I know he's my brother, and despite what he did, leaving me behind, turning me in…I do still love him," Lillie spoke, clearly and concisely despite the position of her head. "But that's why, tomorrow, I want you to beat him! I want to see you win! Because…because nothing would make me happier! I know that, if you can, it'll mean that he can finally turn away from that kind of person, and become the brother that I love again.
"Not only that, though. I just want you to win because you've given me so much, and I've given nothing in return. So, if I can just cheer for you with all of my heart…would you consider that enough? Could…could you do that for me?"
Ash watched as she raised her head, tears in her eyes as she smiled at him with her earnest request. He looked quickly to both Serena and Clemont, the both of them smiling at the blonde. Then, Ash looked at Pikachu and they grinned, stepping forward to take Lillie into a hug. She melted into it, gripping on to his vest like it was the safest thing in the world. And like a father, reassuring there was nothing under the bed, he whispered the words she needed and wanted to hear. Words that he meant: "I'll win. I promise."
Ash knew he wouldn't be getting any sleep that night, that much was obvious. The thought of the finals of the Alola League and the Day of Stars that would occur almost immediately after, was too much for him to bear. Even Serena sleeping next to him (like an angel, he found his mind strangely commenting) wasn't enough to make it possible to sleep. While everyone else was sleeping perfectly fine, he simply could not. So, before the sunrise could even possibly peek over the horizon of the mountain, Ash awoke fully, stretching his limbs alongside Pikachu.
"Wanna go for a little morning run before the big match?" Ash asked of his partner quietly, grinning down at him. The two of them hadn't partied as much as his friends (some of whom seemed to have passed out in the Pokémon Center in the first place), which meant they felt far more energized than those who would merely be watching. Pikachu pumped his fist, ready to partake in their jogging, when Serena awoke and rolled over. Her shirt rode up just a little bit, revealing her stomach as she blinked blurrily at him.
"You're up early," she stated quietly in the dark room. Before Ash could make a move to cover her with a blanket, she sat up, rubbing at her eyes. "I get it, though. Believe it or not, I'm pretty nervous, too…even if I know you're going to win."
"How about we all go for a run, then? The three of us," Ash said, holding his hand out to her. She contemplated it for a moment and then seemed to decide that it really was the best course of action. She got up, and Ash turned away to afford her the privacy to change, his face blushing just a little when her elbow brushed against his back accidentally. It made him clear his throat to clear his mind. Seconds later, she was ready, and they'd written a note for their friends, just in case.
The brisk, morning Lanakila air pierced their lungs once they'd stepped outside, filling them with invigorating energy and helping thoughts to simply filter through their minds. Serena seemed to be thinking about something, likely the impending showdown they were going to be having with Lusamine. He was pretty sure they all had it on their minds: just who they were going to have to confront in the Ultra Space…He was still unsure of how they were actually going to stop them and seal off the Ultra Space from wreaking havoc in their world, but they always found a way. He knew that better than anyone.
Otherwise, his mind turned to the finals that were impending before him. He was keeping his promise to meet Gladion at the League, in the finals. Now, he just needed to keep his new promise to Lillie and win. He was certain that was what the others were wishing from him as well. In fact, he was well aware of it. Gary had passed it off nonchalantly, while Alain was stoic about it, saying that he knew Ash would give a great battle, and Sawyer and Seamus were both bristling with excitement. None of them said it aloud, but it was obvious they all wanted him to win. The same was with Dawn and May who simply kept repeating Dawn's catchphrase of "no need to worry" over and over to the point that Misty got…violent. Iris had then laughed, calling her a kid, while Cilan remarked on their "savory blend".
"I'm almost certain it's just because they're tense over the battle," Clemont had commented, and Ash didn't think there was any actual need to contradict him. Mostly because he was right. The other part was that he didn't want to talk, saving his mind for that upcoming battle that everyone was hoping for him to obtain victory in. The point that gave him solace, however, was that he knew none of them absolutely expected him to win. Nor did he. It wasn't about winning, but he sure was going to try. Beyond that, he was grateful for Brock's silent support, not a word needed after everything the two of them had been through together. He simply promised to stand by Ash, no matter the result, and the two clasped hands in a brotherly hug.
That emboldened Ash on his run, even with the glimpse of the stars, so close to being knitted together and creating singular bright points in the sky, instead of a canopy. The Day was almost here, but he let his mind fill with more pleasant thoughts, like those of the girl running beside him, Pikachu at their heels and keeping up. He really felt he might not have made it through Alola without her, and not because she was the only thing keeping him going (because she wasn't, of course), but because she was the most present reminder of what he always loved having around: family. How Bonnie was the little sister to her, Clemont was the good friend of the group that was like his brother. And Lillie.
Just from seeing Serena interact with Lillie, he knew that one day she'd be a brilliant mother; on par or better with his own (which also seemed to remind himself of how he'd called her last night, and she'd wished him the best of luck, planning to record the entire match). And, of course, he hoped that he'd be right there with Serena when it came to being parents. Lillie, of course, was close in age to them, but had acted so like a child from being closed off to the world, that Ash looked after her like she was his own. It encouraged his relationship with Serena even more, despite their rough patches through the region.
Thinking on that also reminded him of those moments where he yearned for more, such as in the cabin moments ago. He never thought of himself that way, but things had been growing in that way for some time, and he knew it was natural, yet all so strange. Really, it just confirmed a singular thing for him as he slowed and turned to face her. Before she ran off, he'd grabbed her and kissed her without a moment's notice or hesitation. She looked surprised.
"I love you, Serena," he said. She blinked, cupping his face and leaning in, her chest pressing up against his. No one was around for that moment, and they both just enjoyed the rush of feeling, while Pikachu looked away, extremely embarrassed from the way they were acting. Eventually, though, they separated and Ash placed a hand on her back, running it up. She seemed to shiver for a moment, but he figured it was from the cold. "I'm gonna tell you that every day we're together…well, physically together. 'Cause it's kinda hard to do if I'm in a forest and you're in a city and-"
"Ash, point," Serena told him kindly, but sternly. He stopped his hand moving upward, nestling on the small of her back. She moved a little closer.
"Well, we split up for a long time and I…really missed you," he admitted with a little smile. "And…well…I don't want us to ever walk away without saying it. Because I want to be with you, forever, and have that future we've worked so hard to build. I want that future with you and everything else that comes with it, like a family. Even if, you know, we have to do all that other stuff first to get there."
"Ash, me too," she said softly. She leaned forward, placing her head on his shoulder, turning and kissing him on the neck. He couldn't deny that shiver. It made him feel assured of the future, even if they could possibly face a world that had no tomorrow. "For now, though, just remember that we're all with you."
"Of course!" Ash said positively, grinning at her as they decided once more to resume their run. It was a much shorter trip for the way back to the cabin, as the sun was now beginning to rise, spilling over the mountaintops and spelling the opening of the finals to the Alola League. He and Pikachu found themselves getting more excited; not even the sight of Gladion walking to the stadium so early could dampen him. Serena might have helped with that.
"Don't worry, Ash. I know the two of you can reach each other again," she assured him. "You connected over the loss of family and shared experiences once before. That's why I know you can reach him, understand his pain and repair your friendship. You might be different, but that's what makes you work, and you've both learned from one another. So, you'll reach each other, no problem." She then blushed before adding, "You are my Pokémon Master, after all."
Ash had to laugh at that, realizing she was absolutely right. Thinking on lost family members, as they were nearing the village, the two quickly ran into another familiar face, who looked ready to depart from the summit. He caught notice of them and waved at them calmly. Ash picked up the pace, calling out loudly, "Leaving already?"
"Yes," came Y's response to Ash's question. Serena still looked nervous around him, but the way that Y looked at her with such proud eyes, it eased Ash's own heart. "The Day of Stars, and the tipping point, is tomorrow. I want to get to the Lake of the Moone, make sure nothing's happened before Clemont and Bonnie arrive. You understand?"
"Of course," Serena spoke calmly and evenly. She truly acted the part of royalty that Ash knew she was. "We want to have the best advantage, of course. Will you…will you come for the awards ceremony?"
"I'll definitely try, but no promises. If I don't make it, for whatever reason, know I'll be watching," he answered. His body turned to face her for a moment, a grin on his face. "You amazed me, Serena. I thought seeing you on the television was spectacular, but in person…you're truly a beautiful woman, just like your mother. And…I'm very proud of you, if you'll let me be."
"S-sure," Serena said, and Ash could hear her holding back her tears of happiness. Y seemed to hesitate a moment, but then he threw caution to the winds and grabbed both of the teenagers in for a hug. "D-dad?"
"I'm sorry for being such a deadbeat father all these years," he whispered, close enough that Ash could hear him. "That you have become so beautiful, and what the two of you have is so beautiful, astounds me. I'm…I'm very grateful to have such a wonderful daughter. So, please, come back safe, and take care of each other."
"We always do," Ash assured him. That was the confirmation he needed to pull away. Not another word was exchanged as Y nodded at them, the pride replaced with determination for the battle ahead. Those silent vows exchanged, Y left, running along towards the lift down from Mount Lanakila.
At long last, Ash's thoughts turned fully towards the finals, starting to consume his very mind, and blocking out all else. The couple returned to their cabin, everybody up and ready for the day. His friends, no…his family said nothing except for a quiet "good luck" following breakfast, as Ash breathed in, their group heading for the stadium. It was quickly growing populated despite the earliness before the match, and at the entrance, they separated, well-wishes on their tongues.
"Ready, Pikachu? This is a battle we've been waiting for," Ash told him. Pikachu nodded.
"Pikapi, pi chu!" Pikachu answered, flexing his fist as they both walked further inside, heading for the waiting room that was theirs and theirs alone. The sound of the growing noise of the crowd filled the room as Ash entered that space and sat down, readying himself for the battle ahead. Then, for a second, he stood and called his entire team out, while Greninja popped out on his own, despite not being used for the day's battle.
"This is it, guys. The finals!" Ash assured them all. They nodded back at him. "Gladion won't hold back, and he's going to try every tactic to take us down. So…we need to push forward, no matter what, and win! No giving up until the very end!"
"Kooroo!" Decidueye cried, as Toucannon perched on his head comfortably with her own cry. Passimian and Kommo-o nodded, while Lycanroc howled. They were all ready for the battle ahead. Ash even looked to Greninja and nodded.
"And…everyone," he wanted to make sure he said to all of them. "No matter what, I love you all. This is about even more than winning for us! We're striving to understand the other team in every way. If we can do that, nothing else matters. We're gonna pull away and understand Gladion better than any other trainer before! And he'll understand us! So, let's give it our all!"
"Pika pikachuuuu!" Pikachu called in agreement, his cheeks sparking a bit in his enthusiasm. There was a sudden chiming, and Ash knew it was time. Giving another quick look, he put his hand in while the others did the same (though some used wings or paws), raising them into the air in the best fists they could. Then, he returned them all and walked forward, out of the waiting room and towards the cheering crowd, already sitting on the edge of a knife.
"Today is the day! Bright, sunny and clear, like the Legendary Pokémon of Alola are smiling down upon this very match!" Kalas cried out, sounding more excited than ever. Ash stepped forward, walking down the hallway as he approached the moment they would meet on the battlefield. "Because today is the day! Today are the finals of the Alola League!"
"Wooooooooo!" the crowd roared with absolute excitement. Ash finally reached the edge of the hallway, and began stepping out into the light. The cheers and screams hit him full force as he looked up to the stands once he'd emerged. In the crowd, immediately opposite himself, he could see Serena and the others, including Kahili, as well. Some in the crowd were holding up banners with Ash and Gladion's names, waving them around excitedly. That made Ash turn his gaze downward, to the boy he was opposing, a stoic look on the blond's face.
"Here they are! Our amazing competitors that have battled this far into the Alola League: it's Ash! And it's Gladion!" Kalas called out. The screaming and waving increased, vibrating the entire stadium as fireworks went off overhead. "Which one will take home the win? Who will walk away as the first ever Alola League Champion? ! I couldn't say, but it'll be amazing!"
"Yeah, it will," Ash breathed to himself, finally coming to a stop. He looked across, facing Gladion as the blond nodded at him. He nodded back. They were ready to settle things, determined to move forward. It wasn't about words for them, but about the battle. The ground shuddered, and their first field began to move upwards, sliding into place.
"And here it is! The first field of the final battle will be…the desert wasteland!" Kalas called out. Ash surveyed the field as he reached for his pokeball to call his first Pokémon. It was a rock-strewn wasteland for sure, with patches of sand here and there, dusting up slightly in the air that circulated the stadium. Perfect for a showdown. The referee stepped forward.
"This is a final battle between Ash and Gladion!" he called to the quieting crowd, though Ash knew it wouldn't last long. "As such, it will be a six-on-six battle between the trainers, with substitutions allowed! The battle will only be over when all six of one side's Pokémon are defeated. Further, after one trainer has lost three Pokémon, there will be a battlefield change! Trainers, at your ready."
The referee stepped back and the crowd seemed to hush, filled with burgeoning excitement all throughout the stadium. One more look was shared between the combatants, and they tossed their pokeballs forward at the same time. "This is it, Gladion. As promised. Lycanroc, I choose you!"
"Yeah. I've been looking forward to this. Let's settle it. Dhelmise, come out!" Ash blinked a little at the unfamiliar name. Lycanroc hit the field on all fours, howling loudly with energy as her portrait appeared on the screen. Likewise, Gladion's unfamiliar Pokémon emerged, putting Ash's body immediately on the defensive from its presence alone. It looked like a seaweed covered anchor, almost ghostly in nature. In fact, Ash was almost certain that Rotom was saying exactly that from up above in the stands: a Grass and Ghost type. Gladion was already setting up for a challenge.
Then the referee lowered his hand.
"Lycanroc, Accelerock!" Ash called, punching forward. Lycanroc's body glowed and she took off, feet pounding almost soundlessly against the rock as she ran, aiming straight for Dhelmise. It was definitely an odd Pokémon, and Ash knew he'd have to be careful, unsure of how the creature would move. In little time, Lycanroc had reached the foe before them and slammed into it. The floating Dhelmise was pushed back. "Now, use Crunch!"
"Phantom Force!" Gladion ordered, bringing a hand up to his face and covering one side. Lycanroc's jaws gleamed white, and she bit forward, only for the Sea Creeper Pokémon to disappear. Unlike the day before against Glaceon, Lycanroc remained calm, even without Ash's command. She raised her snout, sniffing at the air, trying to sense the opponent.
"Croo!" Lycanroc howled shortly and Ash grinned. Dhelmise suddenly appeared behind Lycanroc and slashed outward with the large blade that formed its anchor. It slammed into Lycanroc, but she turned around and got her bearings in midair.
"Now, go and use Crunch!" Lycanroc growled, bounding forward and biting into the blade of the anchor.
"Del…" Dhelmise echoed out, its compass-shaped eye twitching a bit as it suffered from the swift attack. Gladion stepped forward.
"Spin around and shake it off," he called, throwing his hand down low. Dhelmise began to spin rapidly, whipping up some of the sand around it. Lycanroc whimpered in the process, until Dhelmise finally managed to throw her off and send her flying into a patch of sand. Ash clenched his fist, offering a small grin.
"No worries! Kick up that sand towards Dhelmise!" Ash ordered swiftly. Lycanroc turned around and kicked her hindlegs out fiercely. The dust was stirred up and billowed out towards the Ghost type. Gladion was yelling for a dodge. Putting weight behind its body, Dhelmise began to spin rapidly, whirring away from the source of the dust.
"Use Power Whip!" Gladion called, now cracking his knuckles swiftly. Dhelmise didn't stop spinning, but its anchor seemed to glow green and become remarkably flexible in the process. It continued shining powerfully as it hurtled right for Lycanroc and whipped out rapidly. Ash threw his fist up.
"Dodge it with Accelerock!" Ash called. Lycanroc whipped around to face Dhelmise as it hurtled at her. Her body blazed with gray light again, and she blasted forward, stirring up a little more of the dust. The flexible anchor slammed the green glow forward, knocking into the stone surface that Lycanroc was now upon. She, however, had managed to avoid it by dodging to the side quickly and then leaping forward and slamming into the Pokémon from the side. Its anchor returned to normal quite swiftly. "Now, use Stone Edge!"
"Laroooo!" Lycanroc howled loudly, her howl causing stones to jut up all over the place as they raced towards Dhelmise. Gladion didn't seem to be worried, just as Ash figured. It was pretty much the way he operated…at least until things went south. Ash had to wonder if that part had changed.
"Anchor Shot! Hit the rocks," he commanded calmly, his eyes narrowed towards the battlefield. Dhelmise recovered before the rocks could hit it and there was a bright, almost sea-colored glow near its shank that fired outward like a ghostly, steel chain. That chain embedded itself in the rocks, piercing them with the anchor. "Whip it around now!"
"Mise…mise…" Dhelmise echoed out, almost similar to the way Null had sounded before its facemask was removed. Like always, Dhelmise's whole body began to spin with the effort and the stones were ripped from the ground. It began to spin around, the connected chain carrying the stones with it as it did so, swinging rapidly. It was in such tight rotations that, within seconds, one of the stones had slammed against Lycanroc, tossing her to the side and back on to the sands. She recovered swiftly, however, and Ash quickly sparked with an idea.
"Lycanroc, use Thunder Fang on the chain!" Lycanroc growled loudly, her jaw and fangs now sparking with electricity. Pikachu was cheering her on, his own cheeks sparking to show his support. Gladion still watched calmly. Lycanroc pounced, leaping over the next rock that came hurtling towards her and she snapped to the side. Her fangs dug into the chain, exploding with lightning. The voltage traveled upwards and downwards, blasting apart the rocks on the end of the chained anchor, while also reaching all the way into Dhelmise's core, causing it to convulse wildly while each stone exploded along the chain.
"Disappear with Phantom Force!" Gladion called, the small veneer of calm shattering. Ash wanted to chuckle; he was still the same Gladion, though he didn't sound so upset about the battle shifting. He was just more passionate now. Dhelmise's chain retracted back into its body, Lycanroc still attached. Before she could slam against the opposing Pokémon, she let go, and just in time. Dhelmise disappeared, vanishing into the air once more.
"Don't bother sensing it! Keep moving and stir up the sand!" Ash called out. Pikachu hopped up and down next to him while Lycanroc took off. She ran across the field, changing direction every so often while Ash scanned things, waiting for the enemy to make its move. Sand and dust stirred up, whirling around as they waited, and then Ash saw it. Some of the sand didn't keep blowing onward. "Now, dodge to the right!"
"Lycrrr!" Lycanroc called. She did as asked, just as Dhelmise appeared and swung downward. The timely command allowed Lycanroc to avoid the blow entirely, though Gladion wasn't planning on letting the speedy wolf do whatever it wanted.
"Anchor Shot, let's go!" he called. Dhelmise turned with rapidity and fired off the same ghostly chain, this time right at Lycanroc, who was still finding a small amount of balance from her earlier dodge. The chain slammed into her side, looking far more powerful than Ash had expected. Lycanroc was tossed across the field, rolling slightly before she got back on to all fours once again, shaking her head, but her tongue wagging out a little.
"That was pretty strong…just one hit…" Ash commented. He looked over to Gladion, who was staring right back at him, actually grinning in his direction. Dhelmise was an odd one: ghostly power with an obvious Steel type move that was buffed up beyond belief. Another one of those, or something like Power Whip, and there would be no way for Lycanroc to keep standing. "Right! Make a Stone Edge shield!"
"Dhelmise, Power Whip!" It was just as Ash thought. Lycanroc howled, slamming her paws on the ground and causing the stones to erupt rapidly. They formed a bulwark between her and Dhelmise, though the Sea Creeper Pokémon wasn't stopping, whirling forward like a deadly blade, glowing green and undulating. Lycanroc backed up as the Power Whip sliced through the stones, obliterating them like they weren't even there.
"Dodge it!" Ash called out. Lycanroc hopped to the side, barely avoiding the slamming Dhelmise, but the Pokémon wasn't finished there. Gladion called for his Pokémon to keep it up. Dhelmise did just that, striking back and forth with its writhing green blade, coming closer to Lycanroc every time. It certainly wasn't working very well for Ash to have Lycanroc keep dodging. "Time for another strategy. Lycanroc, return!"
Ash raised his pokeball to call her back, but the red light hit Lycanroc, and did nothing. She didn't return at all. His eyes widened…he hadn't thought that Anchor Shot had that kind of secondary effect. In the brief second between trying to return Lycanroc, the Power Whip slammed down on her, knocking her into the ground. "Finish it with Giga Drain!"
"Dhelmiiii!" Dhelmise finally shrieked, as if finally in the throes of victory. Lycanroc couldn't recover, as Dhelmise's seaweed glowed a bright green and shot out like tendrils, wrapping around Lycanroc and sucking her dry. She called out for a second, but it was only that before it was over with a green burst of energy puffing into the air, and Dhelmise floated backwards, glowing a healing blue color. Ash frowned.
"Lycanroc is unable to battle! Dhelmise is the winner!"
"And Gladion takes the first victory of this final match! Is this a fortune for how the battle will go? Or will Ash be able to turn it all around?" Kalas called to the cheering crowd. Ash almost had to laugh, even as he called his bravely defeated Pokémon back. He looked up, towards Gladion and his floating Pokémon.
"Sorry about that. Not our best match, I guess," Ash called out; he could even feel Lycanroc's disappointment inside her pokeball. He reached back to grab for his next Pokémon. "But don't worry. Me and my team will push you to the end. That's what you want, right, Gladion? That's all you ever wanted to get from battling and growing stronger. So you wouldn't be hurt."
"Mm," Gladion vocalized, but neither confirmed or denied the statement. Ash felt he didn't need to. He knew. He really had known it back when they'd battled at Brooklet Hill, but never realized how far it would take the blond before him, or the depths to which he'd sink. Now, however, he did, so he was determined to show him that strength only to defend from pain never came from just sheer tactics or growing stronger on your own.
It was about accepting it.
"Toucannon, I choose you!" Ash cried, sending his next pokeball into the air.
"Toucaaaaah!" Toucannon screeched loudly upon her emergence to the battlefield. The crowd cheered while her picture appeared on the screen. Dhelmise just glared at her with its compass eye, sizing her up, and Ash grinned. He was reaching his hand out.
"Toucannon, Feather Dance!" Toucannon flew forward, cutting through the air before her wings snapped outward. Feathers shot out, acting almost like razors, despite being undamaging. They flitted across Dhelmise's figure, causing it to glow blue.
"Power Whip!" Gladion roared out, bringing his hand out as his knuckles cracked. Dhelmise swung forward once more, the anchor glowing green as it squirmed outward, aiming for Toucannon.
"Flame Charge!" Ash roared. Lycanroc had given him a perfect understanding of how Dhelmise worked, and despite some of the healed damage from before, Ash knew he would win this particular matchup. Besides, Gladion was too stubborn to switch out Pokémon; yet another thing he'd proven during their battle at Brooklet Hill, but Ash had been too blind to see. Toucannon blasted off, jettisoning with flames around her entire body. Dhelmise swung upwards, but Toucannon dodged, ramming right into the Pokémon and flapping off to the sky.
"Use Phantom Force to catch up with it!" Gladion yelled out. Dhelmise vanished into thin air, and Ash had to wonder what move would truly be used next, given how non-effective Phantom Force would be. Ash's eyes widened a little, and he grinned.
"Toucannon, low to the ground and use Hyper Voice!" Ash cried out, throwing his hand outwards. Dhelmise was still nowhere to be seen, but it didn't stop Toucannon from acting. She flipped around in midair and shot downwards. Her beak snapped open.
"Cannaaaaaaah!" The red waves blasted out, powerfully quivering the small remains of rock on the battlefield. Most importantly, it sent the sand billowing up and swirling around powerfully like a tornado. Not quite a Sand Attack or Sandstorm, but for what Ash wanted, he knew it could get the job done. Sure enough, within seconds, Dhelmise's form had become quite visibly apparent from the sand now clinging to its seaweed and the rest of its ghostly form.
"Now, nail it with Flame Charge!" Ash called. Toucannon shot off through the sand, bursting with flames that melted the sand away until she slammed into Dhelmise, driving it away from the sand cloud and making it visible once more with a cry. She quickly detached herself from it and flew into the air again.
"Giga Drain!" Gladion roared outward. The seaweed rustled with a life of its own and, like tendrils, went after Toucannon. She still had her Flame Charge active as it got close with its unearthly green glow. Her head turned a little, looking towards Ash, and he nodded. She put an extra burst of speed on, the flames rising into an even higher conflagration. The Giga Drain made contact with the flames, but was already burned away the second it would have touched. "Keep it close with Anchor Shot!"
"Keep on the move and dodge it!" Ash called. Toucannon did just that. The ghostly colored anchor shot outward from Dhelmise's body, aiming right for Toucannon. She rolled through the air, dodging the attack as she did so, and snapped her wings outward, flying right up to get above the anchor's descending level. "Another Flame Charge, let's go!"
"Meet it with Power Whip!" Gladion commanded. Toucannon flapped through the air and then hurtled straight for Dhelmise, body blazing with even greater flames. She was like a shot now, traveling at speeds that Ash had never quite seen from her before. The chain retracted swiftly, and Dhelmise's anchor glowed green, swinging upward as Toucannon finished her approach. This time, the attack managed to hit and make contact with Toucannon's body, but she didn't stop, driving into Dhelmise and flinging it off through the air. "Hide with Phantom Force and then use Power Whip!"
"Del," Dhelmise grunted, vanishing into the air like the ghost it was. However, Gladion had made a miscalculation, one he quickly realized: Dhelmise was still visible from the sand yet clinging to it.
"Charge up a Beak Blast!" Ash called out, grinning as he threw a fist into the air. Gladion attempted to cry out for Dhelmise to stop, but events were moving too quickly. Toucannon's beak glowed a bright red, blistering with heat as she located her opponent and angled herself straight for that foe. Dhelmise reappeared, swinging its anchor upwards. The green whip made contact with the beak, which glowed to its crimson zenith for a moment and then exploded outwards. Toucannon's wings snapped wide and Dhelmise blew back from the major attack, slamming into the sand, body smoking completely from all the flaming attacks it had taken. There was another, powerful burst of flame, and Dhelmise remained flat and still.
"Dhelmise is unable to battle! Toucannon is the winner!" the referee shouted out. Ash nodded, praising Toucannon inside his head for such a well-fought battle, all while turning his mind to whatever Pokémon was next. Toucannon had taken a little bit of damage, but not enough to put a dent in her, so he waited to see what Gladion would call as his second Pokémon, the blond returning his first.
"Okay, then. Araquanid, you're up!" the blond called, throwing his next pokeball forward as the Water Bubble Pokémon appeared, its large legs skittering back and forth as the bubble on its head jiggled, encasing it carefully and calmly. It glared at Toucannon. Ash breathed in, looking at Pikachu and nodding. "Aqua Ring, now!"
"Let's disturb that bubble, Toucannon! Hyper Voice!" The Pokémon both acted simultaneously. Toucannon's large beak opened wide and fired off a rather loud soundwave, pulsing red as it flew towards Araquanid, all while said Pokémon was surrounded by numerous rings of water that shined around its figure. The soundwaves battered at Araquanid, but the bubble just rippled and continued to keep it safe and calm. Gladion had reverted back to his calm state, as well.
"Lunge!" came the command. Araquanid's bubble and body glowed green, and it spun quickly, almost turning into a green orb of its own volition. That same orb shot into the air, flying through the air for Toucannon, like it was connected to her by a thin string.
"Dodge it and use Flame Charge on the bubble!" Toucannon had no problem dodging the attack. She was like a quick blur, and despite Araquanid's fast speed, she still skirted by it. Araquanid spun out in midair, back into its normal state as Toucannon erupted with flames. She shot off and ducked under the Water Bubble Pokémon before rising upwards quickly, colliding with the large bubble around Araquanid's head. Nothing happened, causing Ash to groan a bit as Toucannon rebounded from the bubble.
"Frost Breath!" Gladion's command came. Toucannon was too close in range, right in the moment that a portion of the bubble parted, just enough for Araquanid's mouth to open and fire off a piercing, and wide-ranged, beam of ice that engulfed all of Toucannon. She still seemed okay, but Gladion was pressing on. "Use Scald!"
"Dodge it, and use Feather Dance for cover!" Ash called, narrowing his eyes a bit. Toucannon flapped her large wings, pushing away from Araquanid while sending out the multitude of feathers that obscured her from the opponent. The bubble closed once more and then fired off steaming water, shimmering in the bleak light of the wasteland. The water hit upon the feathers, dousing them, but not going much further than that. "Get ready with a Beak Blast!"
"Use Lunge, right now!" Gladion called. Now Ash was really wondering just what the boy was up to. Had he found some way around Toucannon's Beak Blast? If that were the case, Ash knew he'd have to be careful. He observed both Pokémon as Toucannon's beak glowed red hot and Araquanid charged forward in its spinning form. He waited, and finally, the attack made contact with the Beak Blast.
"Toucah!" Toucannon cried as the attack landed and exploded outward. She, too, was forced backwards, slightly dazed from Araquanid's simultaneous strike, but otherwise relatively fine. Araquanid, however, was glowing blue and looking as hale and hearty as ever. There wasn't even a burn!
"Araquanid's ability is Water Bubble, Ash," Gladion said to him, a smirk playing on his lips. For a moment, Ash was brought back to that Brooklet Hill battle, when he had instructed him upon Mareanie's ability. It felt right. Every battle they were having was a step closer to being comrades again. "That means it can't be burned, so I can attack Beak Blast with impunity. Again and again until Toucannon falls."
"Oh…" Ash noted, and he started to chuckle. "Guess that would make things difficult." Ash nodded, soaking in Gladion's words as both Araquanid and Toucannon got themselves ready for another round. Only Ash wasn't. He knew they couldn't keep on battling like this and expect to win, already being behind, by all rights. So, without any hesitation, he pulled his pokeball out, and pulled a move that he, Gladion, and even his friends had likely not expected.
"Toucannon, return! And Kommo-o, I choose you!" The final battle of the Alola League was only just getting started.
Author's Note: And so the finals have begun! Naturally, this major full battle will continue on into the next chapter. I think it's ultimately a good one, though it may seem slow moving now simply based on how much of a tactician Gladion is. Bit more complicated than Ash and Hau's "let's run at each other and see what happens". Though, yes, I did change his team from the games to showcase some other Pokémon, but I hope you enjoy, anyway. Of course, it wasn't all that. The Day of Stars is almost here, after all, and our heroes have everything on the line! Other than that, though, who knows how this final battle will go, but I hope it only grows more exciting.
So, without further ado, allow me to thank everyone that has taken part in lending words to this massive project with a great, heavy thanks to Amourshiper35, ultimateCCC, Omegaz, Tenzalucard123, FantasyLover88, potat lasaro, Gehatik, aliensinnoh, AdvancedAlto, XDiamondX90, Nina The Fangirl, TheShapeH31, thatsmybusiness43, ChE clarinetist, Cottonmouth25, jlogan2748 and 1 guest for reviewing. The League will reach its conclusion soon, so please stick around! Until that next chapter, please Review and Dare to Be Silly.