Author's Note:
Here it is, Ash's battle for his sixth badge. Nothing much more than that. It will be a four on four battle, don't forget to vote in the poll concerning which Johto starter Serena should get. Just so you know, whichever one it is, Ash will get another pokemon of the same type, i.e. if it's Totodile then Ash gets a different water type. It is up, until the Ash's eighth gym battle... With that, let's begin...
Chapter 36: Ash VS Blaine: A Blaze of Glory
Sat around the table, the group was eating tea, along with their pokemon. Ash and Serena already told their story about encountering Team Rocket, then Brock and Misty told their story, including Rhyhorn's impressive reflexes when it came to keeping Brock of a harassment charge. Then their attention turned to the riddle.
"A place where fire fighters can't win." Ash repeated thoughtfully.
"Where do you think that is Ash?" Serena asked.
"I don't know... But it has to be on the island." Ash replied.
"What about the Volcano?" Misty replied. "With all the lava, any fire fighter would have a hard time winning there.".
"Are you sure Misty?" Ash asked. "I don't think anyone would build a gym in a Volcano.".
"Well of course I can't be certain." Misty replied in an annoyed tone. "But if you have any better ideas, I'm sure we would love to hear them.".
"Come on Misty, Ash does have a point." Brock stepped in. "A volcano isn't the safest of places... I would rather be sure before we going wandering around the volcano and get burnt.".
"True..." Misty replied with a sigh.
"Well... Why don't we go to the base tomorrow, and if we don't find anything, then no-harms done." Serena suggested.
"Fine with me." Ash replied.
"Then it's settled." Misty replied. The group finished their tea and went to sleep.
"So... What now?" Serena asked as the group rested on a bunch of stones. The group has been searching around the base of the Volcano for hours, and they haven't seen any sign that Blaine's gym is anyway near here.
"I don't know..." Ash muttered sadly as he took the egg out of his bag and started rubbing it with a handkerchief.
"I was sure Volcano was the answer." Misty grunted as she paced around.
"Calm down Mist." Brock instructed.
"But it's so infuriating." Misty cried, and she kicked a small rock which was in front of her foot. The rock hit a wall, and smashed, with little bits of technology flying out.
"What was that?" Serena asked.
She stood up to investigate, but the floor started shaking and she fell into Ash's arms. The egg was accidentally knocked towards the floor, but thanks to Pikachu's swift reflexes, it was saved. Ash also acted fast and grabbed Serena, so she didn't fall. Serena blushed and gazed lovingly at Ash, he saved her, again. She decided to stay there and just enjoy the moment in Ash's arms, closing her eyes, the whole world seemed to disappear.
"What... Just happened?" Ash asked. "Was it an earthquake or something?".
"I don't think so." Brock replied thoughtfully. "It happened after Misty kicked that thing... Maybe it was a key which opened something.". Pikachu placed the egg safe in Ash's backpack, wrapping it up in a blanket, and zipping it closed.
"Thanks buddy." Ash told his starter pokemon.
"No problem." Pikachu replied.
"Guys, cheek it out." Misty pointed over to the Volcano, a new pathway inside was opened up.
"I think that we just found the gym." Ash pointed out.
"Ya never know, it could be an evil team's hide out who wants to expand the land." Pikachu joked.
"What are you on about, Pikachu?" Ash asked.
"Haunter told me about this game called ORAS, and how the bad gyms attacked a Volcano." Pikachu explained.
"... I'm starting to think Haunter might be a bad influence." Ash replied, seriously considering getting a therapist for his ghost poison type.
"Come on Ash, we should check it out." Brock told Ash, pushing
"Right." Ash replied and went to stand up, then he realised Serena was still in his arms, with her eyes closed and a dreamy expression on her face. A sweat drop grew on the back of Ash's head, as Pikachu snickered. "Um... Serena...". Serena opened her eyes and let out a sad sigh before standing up, and pecking Ash's cheek in the process.
"Thank you for saving me." Serena giggled cutely.
"Hehehe, your welcome." Ash replied, he is getting better when Serena pecks his check, or hugs him, but he still isn't fully use to it. The group decided to leave that their, and made their way down the new path way, that opened up.
Walking inside of the Volcano, it quickly became very hot, and on the wall, were pictures of an old man in a lab coat, with several different fire type pokemon: Arcanine, Ninetales, Vulpix, Growlithe, Charmeleon, Magmar, Ponyta, Rapidash, Flareon and Charmander. The group deduced that this man is Blaine and these were pictures of his pokemon. Although the man in the pictures shared a strange resemblance to Ridge.
At the end of the pathway, there was a giant door. Being the responsible one, Brock placed the back of his hand against the door to test the heat. Although it was warm, it was nothing to serious, so he and Ash pushed it open.
Entering the room, they saw Ridge stood in the centre of a battlefield, which was being held over a lava pit. By Ridge's feet is his Growlithe, who barked happy to see the group arrive.
"Good to see you could make it." Ridge spoke as the four-walked in.
"Ridge... What are you doing here?" Ash asked. Ridge laughed lightly.
"Who knows what a ridge is?" Ridge asked.
"A ridge is a long, narrow hilltop, mountain range, or watershed." Misty answered.
"Exactly... Ridge narrowly lead you here, once you proved yourself." Ridge explained. "To your gym battle, against me... Blaine.".
"So... You were the gym leader the whole time?" Serena questioned.
"Right, I created Ridge as a way to find those trainers worthy of battling me." Blaine explained.
"Awesome." Ash replied. "So, does that mean we can battle?" Ash asked.
"Of course." Blaine replied and he turned around and walked to his trainer's box. Ash turned to his friends.
"Good luck Ash." Misty wished him before she took a seat on the side line.
"Thanks Misty." Ash replied.
"Yeah good luck little buddy." Brock gave Ash a noogie. Ash struggled to escape and before he could reply, Serena grabbed him by the jacket and pulled him into a kiss on the lips. Brock, Misty and Blaine were gobsmacked as they haven't seen them do it yet. Ash, turned bright red.
"That is for good luck." Serena replied before she skipped next to Misty.
"Thank you." Ash replied in a high pitched squeaky voice. Pikachu snickered at the reaction. Ash ignored him and wobbly walked down to the battlefield. Brock was going to take a seat as well, but he noticed something.
"Excuse me... Blaine." Brock called out.
"Yes." Blaine replied.
"You don't have a referee." Brock pointed out.
"I think we're both capable of seeing when a pokemon can't battle, thanks." Blaine replied, a little annoyed at these new rules, back in his day it was just a trainer and his pokemon.
"Still, all official league battles must be overseen by a referee." Brock replied.
"Then you can do it, if you want." Blaine replied and Brock walked down to the ref box. "It's four on four, and if they fall in the lava their out.".
"The pokemon can fall in there?" Ash asked in a panicked state.
"Of course... But there's a netting to catch them, and it can withstand a Snorlax, so don't worry." Blaine reassured.
"This is a four on four gym battle between Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town, and Blaine, the Cinnebar Island gym leader." Brock announced. "The battle is over when all of one sides pokemon is unable to battle... There is no time limit and only the challenger can substitute his pokemon... Blaine will choose his pokemon first.".
"Ponyta, Go!" Blaine shouted. Ash took out his pokedex and scanned the fire type:
Ponyta, The Fire Horse Pokemon. Capable of jumping over the Prism Tower in a single giant leap. Its hooves are ten times harder than diamonds. It can trample anything completely flat in little time.
"Tauros, I choose you!" Ash shouted. The two pokemon and appeared and entered a battle stance. Ash decided to start off with Tauros, as he is at the biggest disadvantage. on a battlefield like this.
"Let the battle... Begin." Brock declared.
Ash VS Blaine (P. I):
"Flame Charge." Blaine started. Ponyta stamped her feet creating a cloud of dust, then charged out of it, covered in fire.
"Stand your ground!" Ash shouted. Tauros tensed up and braced himself. Ponyta charge into Tauros' head, but Tauros stood strong. Tauros didn't even let the flames bother him. "Great, now Take Down!". Tauros pushed forward and knocked Ponyta back, forcing her to the ground, cancelling the flame Charge. Tauros also took recoil damage.
"Get up Ponyta." Blaine shouted. Ponyta forced itself up and stood strong. "Now Flame Charge, again.".
"You two Tauros... Stand your ground then Take Down!" Ash shouted. The same thing happened although Ponyta was slightly faster. Ash realised that even though Tauros could take the Flame Charges, Blaine was only after the speed boosts.
"Flame Charge." Blaine instructed. Ponyta entered another Flame Charge.
"Stop it with Bulldoze." Ash instructed. Tauros lifted his front legs into the air then slammed them down onto the floor, shaking the ground and knocking Ponyta of balance, cancelling the Flame Charge. Blaine was impressed by the power.
"That's one strong Tauros you have." Blaine praised.
"Thanks Blaine, but a lot of that power came from Tauros' Sheer Force." Ash explained and Tauros let out a battle cry.
"Then we better up our game Ponyta." Blaine told his Fire Horse Pokemon. Ponyta stamped her foot and let out a battle cry in response. "Fire Spin!". Shooting a flame stream out of her mouth, the flames wrapped around Tauros and created a sort of Fire Tornado. Tauros cried out in pain.
"Horn Attack and get out of there." Ash shouted in a panic. Tauros shot out of the flames and charged past Ponyta, hitting the Fire Horse with his horns. Ash knows Take Down is stronger, but he doesn't want to risk the recoil for a third time.
"Flame Charge!" Blaine shouted. Ponyta used another Flame Charge.
"Scary Face!" Ash shouted. As Ponyta charged at Tauros, Tauros used Scary face and lowered Ponyta's speed. Ponyta made contact and slightly pushed Tauros back. The fire tornado reappeared and caused some more damage to Tauros. "Tauros, you alright?". Stamping his feet with a battle cry, the fire spin disappeared again, Tauros is a veteran and doesn't go down so easy. He may be fairly new to Ash's team, but that doesn't make him weak.
"The determination you share is admirable." Blaine praised. "Flame Wheel.". Ponyta charged at Tauros as flames surround her, similar to Flame Charge, but her speed wasn't raised.
"Bulldoze!" Ash shouted. Tauros used another Bulldoze and Ponyta became wobbly on her feet.
"Bounce!" Blaine shouted. Before she fell over, Ponyta jumped high into the air, looking up, no-one could see her. Blaine remained still with his arms crossed. Ash wasn't going to just wait to be attack thought.
"Be careful Tauros and use Work Up since we can't attack." Ash instructed. Tauros nodded and tensed up, raise his attack and special attack. The fire tornado reappeared and damaged Tauros again. Ash was going to say something, but Ponyta fell from the sky and hit Tauros with her legs, knocking it out of the fire tornado. "TAUROS, can you still battle?".
Weakly, Tauros looked at Ponyta who was young and clearly up for more. He maybe old, but that means he's experienced. He isn't going to be shown up by a young half-wit. Determined, Tauros pushed himself up and let out the biggest battle cry, yet. Ponyta started glowing white.
"Looks like Tauros determination has triggered something in Ponyta." Blaine remarked. The glowing stopped and Ponyta had evolved. Ash pulled out his pokedex:
Rapidash, The Fire Horse Pokemon. The evolved form of Ponyta. Very competitive, this Pokémon will chase anything that moves fast in the hopes of racing it.
"Let's show them your new power Rapidash, Mega horn!" Blaine instructed. Rapidash charged at Tauros, horn first.
"Zen Headbutt." Ash countered. A blue ball of psychic energy appeared between Tauros' horns and the normal type charge at Rapidash. The two collided then both pulled back, neither side giving an inch. Tauros was trapped in another fire tornado. Letting out a battle cry, Tauros destroyed it, taking no damage.
"Looks like Tauros was able to break free." Blaine pointed out.
"Wild Charge!" Ash shouted. Tauros charged at Rapidash as electricity ran throughout his body. The attack took Blaine by surprise and he didn't have time to react. Tauros hit hard, which sent Rapidash on her side, crying out in pain. Tauros returned to his normal battle position, and shook of the recoil damage. "I've learnt your trick Blaine.".
"What is that, boy?" Blaine asked, with a glimmer in his eye.
"You like to get talking when your pokemon is down, giving them a chance to get up again." Ash pointed out.
"Well done, not many people figure that out." Blaine praised. Rapidash was able to push herself up. "Especially on the first round.".
"Well then let's finish this up!" Ash replied with determination. "Zen Headbutt!". Tauros charged at Rapidash with the ball of psychic energy between his horns.
"Poison Jab!" Blaine shouted. Running horn first at Tauros, Rapidash's horn glew purple. Ash clenched his fist, hoping that Tauros can pull it off, whilst Blaine stood strong with a hard glance, and his arms crossed, not showing any sort of reaction.
"Come on Tauros, I know you are strong!" Ash encouraged. Hearing his trainer's voice, lit a fire in the pit of Tauros' stomach, Ash may be a young whippersnapper, but he isn't too bad, and Tauros has to admit that they have bonded in their short time together. With the fire burning with in, Tauros was able to pick up the speed a bit. A moment before the two pokemon collided, Rapidash flinched and Poison Jab was cancelled. Tauros hit with a tone of force and pushed into Rapidash, knocking the fire type to the floor. Rapidash struggled to push herself up.
"Fury Attack!" Blaine shouted. Like a bullet, Rapidash appeared in front of Tauros and stabbed him multiple times with her horn, making the normal type cry out in pain, both pokemon down to their last legs as they returned to their original battle positions.
"Aright Tauros, we will win this, no-doubt." Ash encouraged his pokemon. Tauros responded by stamping his hove and scraping it on the ground, with a grunt. Rapidash mimicked this action.
"Well Ash, it looks like the next attack will take it." Blaine addressed his opponent. "I think both pokemon want this to end with a show of strength to see who truly is stronger.".
"I agree, Blaine." Ash replied. "And if that's what Tauros wants then I'm happy to comply.".
"As am I." Blaine replied with a confident smirk.
"USE, TAKE DOWN!" Both trainers shouted in unison. Both pokemon charged at the other, using every bit of their strength.
"Come on Tauros!" Ash shouted encouragement. "GIVE IT EVERYTHING YOU'VE GOT!". Digging deep, Tauros picked up the pace a bit. Then a thought popped in to the normal type's mind. Slightly ducking his head, Tauros used an old trick he used to win leadership of his old herd. Rapidash's horn scrapped the top of Tauros' head, then sending his momentum upwards into Rapidash's neck, the fire type was thrown into the air. Flying past the edge of the field, she fell towards the lava, but was caught in the net, landing with swirls in her eyes.
"Rapidash is unable to battle..." Brock declared. Tauros took a load of recoil damage and it became too much, he fell on his side with swirls in his eyes. "Correction, both pokemon are unable to battle... The gym leader will select his pokemon first.".
"Return Rapidash." Blaine recalled his fallen fire type. "You've battle hard.".
"Return Tauros." Ash recalled his normal type. "You were awesome out there.".
"Well done Ash, you have definitely proven yourself to be a stong trainer." Blaine praised.
"Thanks Blaine." Ash replied. "That battle was a lot of fun.".
"Yes, it was... So, shall we continue?" Blaine asked, as he gripped another Pokeball. "Magmar, Go!". The fire type appeared and Ash scanned it with his pokedex:
Magmar, The Spitfire Pokemon. The evolved form of Magby. With a body temperature of close to 2,200 degrees, its body is always burning with orange flames, so it looks like a big ball of fire. Lives near volcanoes.
"Then, I choose you." Ash shouted as he threw his Pokeball. "Charizard!". Blaine raised an eyebrow at Ash's choice.
"It takes a lot of guts to bring your own fire type into my gym." Blaine spoke as he examined the fire flying type. Charizard growled in response, he is as strong as any fire types here and he will prove it.
"Actually Blaine, Charizard evolved only yesterday." Ash explained. "So, this will be his first battle as a Charizard.".
"I'll be honoured to test his strength." Blaine replied. "As would Magmar.". Ash and Charizard shared the same smile as both pokemon entered a battle stance.
"Why is Ash using Charizard now... Wouldn't Gyarados or Wartortle be better?" Serena asked Misty.
"True, but Blaine will save his ace until last, so Ash is probably keeping his two water types safe for then." Misty explained. Serena nodded in understanding, the Delphox let herself out to cheer Charizard on.
"Let the battle... Begin." Brock declared.
Ash VS Blaine (P. II):
"Wing Attack!" Ash started. Last battle, Ash started on the defensive, not this time. Charizard shot at Magmar, slightly off the ground and Magmar was hit by his wings, causing a bit of damage. "Dragon Claw!". Covering his claws in blue Dragon type energy, Charizard slashed them towards Magmar.
"Protect!" Blaine shouted. Crossing his arms in front of his chest, Magmar created a barrier, stopping the dragon claw.
"Keep going Charizard!" Ash shouted. "Protect won't last for ever.".
"Hold on Magmar." Blaine countered seriously. Magmar kept his protective barrier up, while Charizard slashed away at the shield. Although Magmar was taking no damage, it was starting to crack.
"Just like that." Ash cheered excited. The shield was one hit away from cracking.
"Now, Confuse Ray!" Blaine shouted. As Charizard's Dragon Claw shattered the Protect barrier, Magmar's eyes locked with Charizards and glew an dark purple colour, Charizard had become confused, and started flying around the Volcano, smashing his head into any rocks which were stuck out.
"Look out Charizard." Ash shouted, as Charizard land on the battle field, on his stomach, he continued to headbutt the field causing himself damage.
"Smog!" Blaine shouted. Magmar fired a cloud of poisonous gas over Charizard. Ash saw his chance.
"Flame Burst!" Ash shouted. Charizard open his mouth and spat a few fireballs above his head, and they landed on Charizard himself. That didn't bother Ash, as his plan worked. A small fire ball bounced of once it hit Charizard and set the smog attack alight, causing an explosion. That was enough to snap Charizard out of his confusion.
"Impressive Ash. It normally takes a lot more overcome Magmar's confusion." Blaine praised. "Now smoke screen.". Magmar released a thick black layer of smoke out of its mouth, covering it from Charizard's and Ash's sight.
"Fly up and use your wings to blow the smoke away." Ash instructed. With a powerful roar, Charizard took off and flapped his wings to blow the smoke away. To Ash and Charizard's surprise, Magmar was nowhere to be seen. "Where did it go?".
"If this season is hot, then a power blast is made... What is it?" Blaine recited.
"A Geyser." Misty shouted out. When she got a weird look from Serena she decided to explain. "A geyser is a hot spring in which water intermittently boils... Then it turns into a jet of water.".
"Correct." Blaine replied. The ground started shaking and a jet of pure lava shot out of the centre of the battlefield with Magmar in the centre of it. Guiding the lava geyser and it hit Charizard in his direct centre. Despite Charizard resisting heat, lava still hurt a bit. "Faint Attack!".
"Fly away!" Ash shouted. Charizard started to ascend but Magmar broke out of the lava and blocked everyone's vision.
"Faint Attack." Blaine countered. Charizard flew back into view, and Ash thought he successfully dodged Magmar, but the Spitfire pokemon appeared on Charizard's back, slamming his fist into the back of Charizard's neck. Charizard was sent crashing into the battlefield, and Magmar jumped off his back before they hit the ground and landed in front Blaine, entering another battle stance.
"But... How?" Ash asked, confuse how Magmar got onto Charizard's back.
"Faint Attack is like Aerial Ace and Swift." Blaine explained. "No matter what the opponent does, it won't miss.". Charizard pushed himself up and growled in defiance.
"Awesome Charizard, let's show them what your made off." Ash praised, as he smiled proudly at his fire type. "Scary Face into Slash.". Charizard shot Magmar a scary face, lowering its speed then shot towards the Spitfire pokemon, with its claws ready to attack.
"Dodge it!" Blaine shouted. Magmar tried to move, but was too slow and took some serious damage when Charizard slashed his claws across it's stomach. The two fire types were face to face. "Thunder Punch!". Magmar's fist was engulfed in electricity, and it was frown towards Charizard, although it was pretty slow.
"Ascend and dodge it!" Ash shouted. Charizard was able to take off and dodge the electric attack, which would've been super effective with Charizard's new flying type.
"Flamethrower!" Blaine shouted. Magmar stood his ground and shot a powerful flamethrower at the air born Charizard.
"Keep moving Charizard, and look for an opening." Ash instructed, and Charizard started flying around, avoiding the flames and looking for a chance to get closer, but no such chance came around.
"Why is Blaine using Flamethrower?" Serena asked. "He should know that it won't affect Charizard very much.".
"Blaine isn't trying to cause damage." Misty replied. "He is keeping Charizard airborne and moving to wear him down... Then he can finish it when Charizard needs to rest.". Ash happened to hear that, and inwardly smiled, Blaine wants Charizard to keep flying does he...
"Go into a dive Charizard and use Dragon Claw!" Ash shouted. This took Blaine by surprise, as Ash didn't seem like the type to send his pokemon straight into an attack, it also confused Charizard, but he trusts Ash, and tucked his wings in, diving straight towards Magmar, loading up a Dragon Claw. The Flamethrower surrounded him, but it didn't do much.
"Thunder Punch!" Blaine shouted. The flames again blocked everyone's view of the duel, but when they cleared, the two were locked, fist and claw, equally matched, but Blaine has a plan. "Smog!". Whilst in close combat, Magmar opened its mouth and released a cloud of purple gas.
"Flamethrower!" Ash countered. Charizard fired a powerful stream of flames out of his mouth and the two attacks collided, causing an explosion. Both of the fire types were blown back and landed on their stomachs in front of their respective trainers. "Come on Charizard, I know you can stand up.".
"Magmar, show 'em what your made of." Blaine also encouraged. Both of the fire types felt inspired by their trainer's determination, and struggled to their feet, although both have taken heavy damage and the battle won't last much longer.
"Awesome Charizard, I knew you could do it." Ash exclaimed, excited.
"Don't be so sure." Blaine laughed confidently. "Focus Blast.". A white(ish) light brown(ish), ball formed in between Magmar's hands. It was about to be fired at Charizard.
"Fly Charizard!" Ash shouted. Charizard let out a battle cry and took off into the air as the Focus Blast was fired. The Focus Blast missed.
"Flamethrower!" Blaine shouted and Magmar fired a powerful flamethrower at Charizard, similar to last time.
"Dragon Rage!" Ash countered, he has a plan this time. Charizard stayed airborne and fired a powerful blue(ish) flame out of his mouth and it collided with the flamethrower. Both attacks were evenly matched.
"Fire Blast!" Blaine instructed wanting to win the power struggle. Changing to the more powerful fire type attack, caused the combination to cause a mid-air explosion and the field was covered in black smoke.
"Dive into the smoke and Seismic Toss!" Ash shouted. Charizard, without hesitation dived into the smoke and appeared in front of Magmar, taking both pokemon and trainer by surprise. Charizard took Magmar in a fireman's lift and shot back into the air.
"Thunder Punch!" Blaine shouted in hopes of cancelling Charizard's attack.
Magmar tried to form a Thunder Punch, but couldn't focus when Charizard picked up speed and doing complete circles in the air. Stopping high in the air, Charizard grabbed Magmar's arm and transferred the built-up momentum into the spitfire pokemon. Throwing him back to the ground, Magmar was moving faster than a Quick Attack. Slamming into the battlefield, Magma created a creator where he landed, on its back with swirls in its eyes. A small puff of black smoke left Magmar's mouth, while Charizard let out a victory roar.
"Magmar is unable to battle." Brock announced. "Blaine, please select your next pokemon.".
"Return Magmar." Blaine recalled his spitfire pokemon back. "You've performed well.". Charizard landed in front of Ash, panting, clearly tired.
"You return too, Charizard." Ash recalled his fire flying type. "You were amazing out there.".
"Well done Ash... Not too many fire types can shine here." Blaine praised. "Your Charizard has been trained well... Much like your brothers.".
"You've met Drake?" Ash questioned.
"Of course, he challenged me the other week." Blaine replied. "It was actually his birthday when we battled.".
"Oh..." Ash muttered sadly. That hurt Ash, so Drake wasn't on the road, sure the pokemon centre would've been packed but even the Riddle Inn has a phone, so he could've called. Does Drake really hate him that much? Why can't Drake see that Ash played no part in their father's actions? What will it take for Drake to finally accept him?...
"Forget about it Ash." Pikachu's voice echoed in Ash's ears. "If he can't see you for you, then just forget about him.".
"Thanks buddy, but you don't know what it's like to have a sibling." Ash replied gratefully with a sad smile as he scratched Pikachu behind the ear.
"Wanna bet?" Pikachu replied.
"Pikachu... You have..." Ash pieced the information together.
"Forget about it for now Ash... I'll explain later." Pikachu replied. "Right now, you have a gym battle to win.".
"Um, was it something I said?" Blaine asked while Ash and Pikachu interacted.
"Don't worry Blaine... It's just some bad tension between Ash and Drake." Brock replied. "You couldn't have known.".
"Alright then." Blaine replied, he smiled seeing Ash return to the battle, more determined than ever. "Ninetales, Go!". As the fire fox appeared, the sunlight increased, and Ash scanned it with his pokedex:
Ninetales, The Fox Pokemon. The evolved form of Vulpix. Very smart and very vengeful. According to an enduring legend, 9 noble saints were united and reincarnated as this Pokémon. Grabbing one of its many tails could result in a 1000-year curse.
"If you're wondering about the weather, Ninetales has the hidden ability drought." Blaine explained.
"Wow, it's so pretty and looks strong and elegant too." Serena commented. "Who do you think Ash will use?".
"Either Wartortle or Gyarados." Misty replied. "I would save Gyarados until last as he is fully evolved.".
Ash heard Misty's comment and thought about who to choose, while Misty's logic does make sense, Gyarados is also bigger meaning he isn't as mobile, especially on this field, so saving Wartortle who can easily move around the field would be a better option.
"Gyarados... I choose you." Ash released his water flying type.
"Or not." Misty continued as she fell anime style. Up on entering the battlefield, Gyarados turned around and licked Ash to show his affection. Ash burst out laughing at the affectionate pokemon.
"Come on buddy, I'm happy to see you too..." Ash happily told his affectionate water type. "But do you need to do this every time?". Gyarados answered with even more affectionate licks. Blaine sweat dropped.
"Well Ash... I've battle a few Gyarados in my time." Blaine explained. "But yours... Is definitely the most affectionate.".
"You'll find its strong too." Ash replied. As Gyarados finally stopped his show of affection and entered a battle stance.
"Let the battle... Begin." Brock declared.
Ash VS Blaine (P. III):
"Confuse Ray!" Blaine shouted. Ninetales' eyes glew purple and several yellowy white balls circled the fire type, then they flew towards Gyarados.
"Block with Aqua Tail!" Ash countered. Gyarados lifted his tail up into the air and it was covered in water. Swiping it into the confuse ray, the ghost type attack was cancelled. "Blaine, I learnt in my second gym battle that water makes a good counter to confusion.".
"Very clever." Blaine praised. "Now Quick Attack, Ninetales.". Like a bullet, Ninetales shot off and couldn't be seen.
"If we can't see her, then make it hard to get close." Ash instructed. "Use Ice Fang on the floor.". Gyarados opened his mouth and four fangs made out of ice were fired, like separate beams. It hit the floor, freezing the surface around the water type. Reading Blaine's mind, Ninetales returned to her original battle spot, so she didn't slip and fall off the field.
"Flamethrower and melt that ice." Blaine instructed. Ninetales opened her mouth and fired a blazing stream of flames at the frozen floor.
"Dragon Dance, whilst their busy!" Ash shouted. As Ninetales melted the ice, Gyarados began glowing red with hints of black, raising both his Attack power and his speed. Blaine was impressed with how Ash used the distraction, guess it's time for his secret weapon.
"Well done, now let's see how you hand this." Blaine replied confidently. "Solar Beam.". Ninetales started absorbing sunlight and in a matter of second had fired a powerful beam of Grass Type energy.
"Duck and go in for a Crunch!" Ash shouted. Swiftly lowering his head, Gyarados barely dodged the grass type attack. This isn't good if Ninetales can fire attacks like that, really fast, thanks to her draught. Gyarados lunged at Ninetales with his mouth wide open. It looked like Ninetales would become his dinner.
"Roar!" Blaine shouted as Gyarados closed in. Ninetales stood her ground and unleashed a powerful Roar. Gyarados was engulfed by the red energy from his Pokeball and sent back into the device, another red light appeared from Ash's belt and his final pokemon appeared on the battlefield... It was Sandslash.
"Sandslash... What are you doing out? Ash asked shocked.
"That's roar... It forces your opponent's pokemon to swap for another one." Blaine explained.
"But... I was going to use Wartortle." Ash replied. "I thought I could chose my four pokemon.".
"Any trainer who battles here should have all their pokemon ready to battle." Blaine replied. "This is just another challenge for you to overcome.".
"So... I have to use Sandslash?" Ash asked.
"Correct." Blaine replied.
"Oh no... Do you think Ash will be alright using Sandslash?" Serena asked Misty. "He hasn't listen to Ash once since evolving.".
"Well... This will either be exactly what the duo need... Being pushed into a corner together and use it as a way to bond." Misty explained. "Or... The battle will be more like a three on four battle.".
"Ninetales VS Sandslash." Brock announced. "Let the battle... Begin.".
Ash VS Blaine (P. IV):
"Defence Curl into Rollout!" Ash shouted, hoping that taking the lead will show Sandslash that they are worth listening to. Surprisingly, Sandslash curled up into a ball and rolled towards the fire type. Although it was questionable about whether or not Defence Curl was used as the Rollout started very quickly.
"Dodge with Quick Attack!" Blaine countered. Ninetales shot off like a bullet and stopped behind Sandslash. The ground quickly turned around and rolled into Ninetales causing some damage to the fire type.
"That's good, it looking like Sandslash is listening to Ash." Serena commented, hopeful.
"Hmm... Maybe." Misty replied. "But maybe they shared the same idea... There is a big difference.
"Sandslash, go into a Crush Claw whilst its down." Ash shouted. Sandslash isn't going to listen to that loser. Why should he, this kid only wants to use him to win a badge, after all. Although he is strong, and he isn't going to back down from this battle or any other. Sandslash jumped up in front of Ninetales, and fired off a load of Poison Sting's.
"Flamethrower!" Blaine shouted. Ninetales shot of a blazing Flamethrower, which countered and overpowered the Poison Sting, destroying it. Sandslash was hit by the fire type attack and fell onto the field. Sandslash growled threateningly at the fire type. He will show this pokemon who's stronger.
"Blind it with Sand Attack!" Ash shouted. Sandslash's hard glare moved from Ninetales to Ash for a split second before he jumped into the air and landed hard on the field, causing it to shake. Sandslash used Magnitude, and it was strong enough to knock Ash over.
"Jump and use Nasty Plot!" Blaine shouted, he isn't sure what's going on with Ash and Sandslash, but he will take advantage of it. Ninetales jumped into the air, avoiding Magnitude, and a poof of smoke appeared around the fire type, sharply raising her special attack.
Sandslash wasn't happy with that little trick, a true pokemon takes the attack head on. Slashing his claws together, Sandslash used Swords Dance. He then charged towards with one Claw in the ground.
"Use Slash!" Ash shouted. Sandslash grunted, it's obvious that is the attack he is already using. He doesn't need this kid to tell him what to do. Blaine frowned, who is the trainer out of these two. With a powerful slash, Ninetales cried out in pain, which made Sandslash smirk, arrogantly.
"Psyshock!" Blaine shouted. Ninetales eyes glew pink and several pink balls of energy formed around her, and shot at Sandslash, when she let out a battle cry. Sandslash extended both claws and started spinning around, using Rapid Spin to knock them away.
"Sandslash, please use Dig!" Ash pleaded. Sandslash growled threateningly towards Ash and his eyes became clouded. A Sand Tomb formed around Ninetales, trapping the fox pokemon.
"Solar Beam!" Blaine shouted and Ninetales started taking in sunlight.
"Please Sandslash, use Dig." Ash begged. "If you get hit by that Solar Beam the battle will be over.".
Sandslash growled, like he would listen to him. This kid doesn't care about him, he is just another AJ. Jumping into the air, Sandslash dived towards a trapped Ninetales, claw first. He was using Crush Claw, but Solar Beam was charged before Sandslash landed his attack. Opening her mouth, Ninetales fired a powerful Solar Beam. It hit Sandslash at point blank range, and Sandslash fell on his back with swirls in his eyes.
"Sandslash is unable to battle... Ash please select your next pokemon." Brock declared.
"Return Sandslash." Ash sadly recalled his fallen ground type. "What has happened to you?".
"I must say Ash... I was quite disappointed with that performance." Blaine spoke seriously. "You clearly care for your pokemon, as shown through Pikachu, Tauros, Charizard and especially Gyarados... But with Sandslash, it is clear he had no intentions of listen to you.". Ash was silent, taking those words was hard, but they are true... Whatever Sandslash went through, shredded any trust he might have had for human's.
"Poor Ash." Serena muttered.
"I suggest you chose your next pokemon." Blaine told his challenger. Ash had to think, he can either use Charizard who is still tired from his previous battle, or Gyarados. Gyarados should still be fresh as he hardly battled, but the smart move is saving him until last.
"I need you again buddy." Ash told the Pokeball containing his fire type. "I choose you, Charizard!". Charizard came out and let out a massive roar, despite his tiredness, looking over field. Ninetales had escaped the Sand Tomb, and was also tired, even if Sandslash didn't listen to Ash, he clearly packed a punch.
"Let the battle... Begin!" Brock declared.
Ash VS Blaine (P. V):
"Psyshock!" Blaine shouted. Ninetales used her psychic type attack again and fired it at Charizard.
"Into the air." Ash shouted. Charizard took off, barely dodging the attack.
"Nasty Plot!" Blaine shouted and Ninetales sharply raised her special attack again.
"Dragon Rage!" Ash shouted. Charizard opened his mouth and unleashed a blue flame towards Ninetales.
"Dodge with Quick Attack!" Blaine countered. Ninetales shot off like a bullet, dodging the Dragon Rage. "Now Solar Beam!". Nine tails started charging sunlight when Ash got an idea.
"Use Steel Wing, but stay up in the air!" Ash shouted. Charizard expanded his wings as they were covered in metal. The battle field was covered by his shadow and Ash's plan worked, the increased sunlight is useless to Ninetales, if her access to it is blocked.
"Grr... Stop the Solar Beam and use Flamethrower." Blaine growled. Ninetales cancelled her Solar Beam and began firing Flamethrowers at Charizard, who continued flying around with Steel wing. Ash thought he had time to think of a counter, but he was wrong. The heat from the Flamethrower, had a sort of melting effect on the steel wing, and Charizard came crashing down.
"CHARIZARD!" Ash shouted, concern evident in his voice.
"The effects the heat had on the Steel Wing has grounded your Charizard." Blaine informed as Charizard tried to push himself up. "Solar Beam!". Ninetales began absorbing sunlight, as Charizard struggle to his feet. Ash is in trouble, Charizard can't fly, he can't dodge, what can he do?... The Solar Beam is fired.
"DRAGON RAGE!" Ash echoed in a panicked state.
Mustering up every bit of energy he has left, Charizard was able to fire one last Dragon Rage. The two attacks collided and a giant explosion was formed, engulfing both pokemon. The blast knocked Ash and Brock off their feet, while Blaine struggled to remain standing. After what seemed like an eternity, the field became visible once more. Both pokemon were still standing. Both letting out a friendly smile and a nod, it showed they had malamute respect, then they both fell to the ground, with swirls in their eyes.
"Both Pokemon are unable to battle." Brock declared.
"Thank you Charizard. Take a long nice rest." Ash recalled his fire type. "I couldn't off have asked more from you.".
"Return Ninetales." Blaine recalled his fire type. "Excellent as always.".
"Can both trainers select your last pokemon." Brock requested.
"Gyarados... I choose you!" Ash shouted, Blaine already knows who is last pokemon is, so it doesn't matter who chooses first. As soon as the water flying type appeared, he hit Ash with another affectionate lick. Which caused everyone to sweat drop, the sight of the Atrocious Pokemon being openly affectionate is... Unique, to say the least.
"Arcanine, Go!" Blaine shouted, releasing his ace. As soon as the fire type appeared and saw his opponent, licking his trainer, Arcanine growled something in a disproving manor. Ash was too busy laughing at the sign of affection, to be able to translate, but whatever Arcanine said, got Gyarados' attention, as he stopped his show of affection, and growled back, threateningly.
Arcanine smirked confidently at Gyarados' aggression, looks like making a comment about the water types trainer, hit a nerve. Sure, he and Blaine may go back to when Blaine was a child, first starting on his journey, and Arcanine was still a little Growlithe, but even back then, they both knew there is a time for playing and a time for battle, and Arcanine would never dream of opening licking his trainer...
The two pokemon growled at each other, and attempted to intimidate each other, although the two abilities cancelled each other out. Ash scanned Arcanine with his pokedex:
Arcanine, The Legendary Pokemon. The evolved form of Growlithe. A Pokémon that has been admired since the past for its beauty. It runs agilely as if on wings.
"It seems like Gyarados really wants to get Blaine's Arcanine." Serena pointed out, in a worried tone. "I hope he doesn't go lone ranger like Sandslash.".
"Come on Serena, you've known Gyarados as long as Ash has." Misty encouraged. "Gyarados cares for Ash more than most pokemon do for their trainer... I don't think you ever have to worry about Gyarados going off, as long as they share their bond.".
"Thanks Misty." Serena replied grateful as she flashed her friend a warm smile.
"Alright Gyarados, I know you want to win this as much as I do." Ash shouted. "So, let show them what our team work is capable of!". Gyarados roared in agreement, then both pokemon entered a battle stance.
"Let the battle... Begin." Brock declared.
Ash VS Blaine (P. VI):
"Dragon Dance!" Ash shouted, Gyarados began glowing red with hints of black, raising both his Attack power and his speed.
"Thunder Fang!" Blaine shouted. Opening its mouth, Arcanine's fangs grew and were covered in electricity. It threw itself at Gyarados.
"Dodge it!" Ash shouted. With his increased speed, Gyarados was able to dodge the electric type again. "
"Extreme Speed." Blaine countered. As Arcanine touched the ground, where Gyarados once was, it swiftly turned to the water type then charged at Gyarados at an unreadable speed. Despite his increased speed, Gyarados couldn't dodge and was hit under the neck, but was able to hold his ground.
"Aqua Tail!" Ash shouted. Gyarados' tail was quickly covered in water, as Arcanine tried to jump back to safety. Mid-air, the fire type was a sitting Psyduck and was swatted away by the super effective attack.
"Psy aye aye." Misty's Psyduck popped out of his Pokeball. Holding his head and tilting it in confusion. "Duck.".
"Flame Burst!" Blaine shouted. Arcanine fired the fire ball and it hit Gyarados, causing minimum damage. A small flame burst of and landed on Psyduck's behind.
"Psy aye aye aye aye aye aye aye aye aye..." Psyduck cried as he ran around with his tail on fire. Misty sighed as she pulled out his Pokeball and called him back.
"What am I going to do with you?" Misty asked the Pokeball.
"Come on Misty." Serena tried to cheer up. "Psyduck is a quacking pokemon.". Serena's light laugh turned to a sweat drop with the way Misty was looking at her.
"Crunch!" Blaine shouted. Looking back to the battle, Arcanine had its mouth bite onto Gyarados' body, who cried out in pain.
"Counter with your own Crunch!" Ash shouted. Gyarados followed Ash's instructions and bite down on Arcanine's back, hard. The fire type loosened his bite, wincing from the pain. Using the moment of Arcanine's weakness, Gyarados lifted the legendary pokemon into the air, completely cancelling Arcanine's Crunch.
"Flare Blitz, and get out of there!" Blaine shouted. Ash saw Arcanine's body heat up and he knew he had to get Gyarados to let go... Then he remembered his battle with Erika's Tangela.
"Drop it with Dragon Rage!" Ash shouted. Gyarados fired Arcanine across the battlefield in a ball of blue flames, meaning his Flare Blitz was useless, except the recoil damage was still taken. Blaine smirked.
"Reversal!" Blaine shouted and in flash, Arcanine was next to Gyarados and hit him with a powerful attack, knocking Gyarados away in pain. "Now go in for a Crunch again!". Arcanine charged toward Gyarados with his mouth open, ready to bite the water type.
"Don't let him get close with Aqua Tail!" Ash shouted. Gyarados' tail was covered in water and he swiped it into Arcanine, blocking the fire type, while he recovered. Blaine growled seeing his ace get squatted like a fly. Arcanine will get close.
"Aerial Ace!" Blaine shouted. Jumping into the air, Arcanine disappeared as Gyarados stood up. Not a moment later, Arcanine struck Gyarados just below the neck, which forced his head to look up. Ash had a light bulb go off.
"Fire a Water Pulse straight up!" Ash shouted. Gyarados may not know what Ash is planning, but he trusts him completely. A water sphere was fired out of Gyarados' mouth, and disappeared out of sight. "Now THRASH!". Knocking Arcanine to the floor, Gyarados unleashed a hugh assault on the fire type causing some serious damage... Then he stopped as the water type became confused.
"Now your Gyarados is wide open." Blaine told Ash, as Arcanine stood strong.
"Don't be so sure." Ash replied with his own smirk. The Water Pulse came flying back down, and hit Gyarados on the head, the water was enough to curing the confusion. Shaking his head dry, Gyarados entered another battle stance, ready for the next bout. Arcanine also entered another battle stance.
"Double Edge!" Blaine shouted. Arcanine charged at Gyarados, with tremendous power.
"Twister!" Ash countered. Gyarados roared and a powerful wind picked up around him. Rocks were picked up and slammed into Arcanine, causing the Double Edge to be cancelled. The wind also reached the lava and created a sort of whirlpool under the battlefield. "Aqua Tail.". As the wind died down, Gyarados covered his tail in water and flung it at the fire type.
"Iron Tail!" Blaine countered. Arcanine's tail was covered in metal and Arcanine jumped, swinging his tail over his head, and the two tails collided. Equally matched, both pokemon were forced back, ending up in their original battle positions. "Time to disappear... Extreme speed.". Arcanine disappeared as he started running around. Neither Ash or Gyarados could see the fire type.
"If we can't attack Arcanine, we will limit his movement." Ash told his water type. "Use Ice Fang on the field.". Opening his mouth, Gyarados' fangs grew and were covered in ice. They shot out and hit the battlefield, freezing the floor. Arcanine became visible as his attack was cancelled. The fire type went from skidding across the ice, and ended up flying off the edge, barely holding on. Ash saw his chance, if Arcanine falls then, he has won the match.
"Hold on Arcanine." Blaine shouted.
"Twister!" Ash shouted, confident that victory was his. With another battle cry, Gyarados used Twister again and Arcanine was hit with strong winds and bits of rock, losing his grip.
"Close Combat the wall!" Blaine shouted. With swift movements, Arcanine grunted at the pain from the Twister, and slammed all four of his legs into the wall he is holding on too, chipping it way. The bits he broke off may have been added to the Twister, but it meant he had a stronger grip. "Iron Tail!". Knowing what his trainer means, Arcanine covered his tail in metal and slammed it into the rock below his feet, using the momentum, Arcanine was sent flying and landed on the battlefield, safe.
"Stop Twister and use Dragon Dance." Ash instructed. Despite Gyarados' best efforts, the battle will continue. He can see that the battle is starting to take its toll on his water type, so using Dragon Dance will hopefully revitalise the water types energy. As the winds calmed down, Gyarados used Dragon Dance again.
"Let's clean up that ice... Flamethrower on the field." Blaine instructed. Arcanine jumped into the air and shot a hot stream of fire out of his mouth onto the frozen battlefield, making mist cover the air.
"Gyarados, we can use this to our advantage... Use Dragon Dance and use the mist as cover!" Ash shouted. Gyarados used his third Dragon Dance, although Blaine smirked, those power ups won't do any good.
"Thunder Fang!" Blaine shouted. Arcanine stood still and opened his mouth, his fangs grew and were covered in electricity, biting the mist, the water vapour conducted the electricity, and Gyarados was shocked, crying out in pain. Due to the electrified mist surrounding Gyarados, it was like he was getting shocked all over, and as a result became paralyzed.
"Ash... I'm paralyzed..." Gyarados winced as static appeared over his body with limited movements.
"Hold on Gyarados." Ash reassured, then he realised they still had to win the battle. "Use Twister and protect yourself.". Struggling his best, Gyarados was able to use the dragon type attack again.
"Extreme Speed!" Blaine shouted. Arcanine shot of, at a great speed and easily dodged the rocks that was used in the Twister. Striking Gyarados in the centre, the Twister was cancelled as Gyarados was sent flying back.
"Gyarados!" Ash shouted, concern evident in his voice.
"Crunch and throw it!" Blaine continued. Arcanine shot in front of the water type again and bit down hard on Gyarados, with a strong tug, he sent Gyarados flying across the field, defenceless to stop the fire type because of the paralysis.
"Come on buddy, I know you can handle it!" Ash encourage. Lying on the ground, Brock was almost ready to call the match, but Gyarados still had fight left in him, and the water type weakly stood up.
"Fire Blast!" Blaine shouted. Opening his mouth, Arcanine fired a powerful stream of flames out of his mouth with the same weird symbol leading the way.
"DRAGON RAGE!" Ash shouted. Pushing through his paralysis, Gyarados was able to fire his dragon type attack out of his mouth and the two attacks collided. This caused a giant explosion and a powerful wind damaged both pokemon. Gyarados fell down, becoming victim to the paralysis again.
"Double Edge!" Blaine shouted, making sure to keep the pressure up. Arcanine shot of with immense power, and slammed into Gyarados, sending to the edge of the field. Clearly in pain.
"Gyarados... Please... I know you are stronger than this." Ash encouraged. "Now... AQUA TAIL!". Struggling back up, Gyarados covered his tail with water then swiped it towards Arcanine. Neither Blaine or Arcanine showed a sign of dodging. When Gyarados' Aqua Tail was about to collide, he became paralyzed again, and his attack was cancelled. Gyarados fell on the field, unable to move, but he still hasn't fainted.
"Close Combat!" Blaine shouted. Arcanine jumped from his spot and landed directly on top of Gyarados, then without hesitation, unleashed a brutal assault on the water type. After a full minute, Arcanine jumped back and looked proud at the work he has done.
"Gyarados!" Ash shouted, concerned for his friend. "Can you keep going?". Gyarados grunted as he tried to stand up, but not even getting half way up, he was hit by the paralysis again, and was left, heavily panting, swaying back and forth with his head facing the ground
"Looks like this battle is over." Blaine declared. "Fire Blast!". Arcanine fired out a powerful stream of flames which created a strange symbol leading the way, just like the last time this move was used.
"Come on Gyarados, I know you can do it!" Ash encouraged. "HYPER BEAM!".
Mustering up the last of his strength, Gyarados dug deep. He has been practising on this move since before Fuchsia City. Ash has been so great, in helping him. The flames from the Fire Blast surrounded him. It hurts so much... No. Ash needs his help to win this battle... Gyarados owes him that much... If it wasn't for Ash, he would still be at that beach, causing himself brain damage... Or Tentacruel feed... He would never have evolved... He wouldn't have his friends... He might not even be alive... If helping Ash means taking some pain, then it's the least he could do...
With a powerful roar, a white beam with a reddish outline was fired out of Gyarados' mouth, it cut through the Fire Blast like a hot knife through butter. Striking Arcanine in the face, the blast was enough to push the fire type past Blaine.
"ARCANINE!" Blaine shouted, concern evident in his voice. After a full minute of blasting the Hyper Beam, Gyarados finally couldn't take the strain anymore and cancelled the attack. Arcanine was buried in the wall, in its own creator. Falling from the spot, he landed on the net, not moving with swirls in his eyes.
"Arcanine is unable to battle." Brock declared. "Which means the victor of this battle is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town.".
"Awesome Gyarados!" Ash shouted as he sprinted onto the field and hugged his water type best he could. "You were amazing... I'm so proud that you managed to learn Hyper Beam.".
Gyarados became water eyed at Ash's praise. Being proud is the best thing Ash could've said, back when he joined Ash's team, he was among one of his strongest pokemon, other than Pidgeotto. But Charizard, Ivysaur and Wartortle, they all evolved and could probably match him... Plus two of them can evolve again, and Gyarados was scared that he couldn't keep up with the other pokemon.
"More or less." Gyarados replied, emotional. While he was able to use Hyper Beam, he doesn't have it down 100% and will still need some practise. Ash was going to ask what Gyarados means by more or less but couldn't as he was attacked by another affectionate lick.
"Return Arcanine." Blaine re called his ace from the net. "Looks like you've met your match... Good job.". As he placed the Pokeball in his pocket, he walked over to the kids celebrating.
"Blaine." Ash turned to the gym leader and Gyarados stood behind him, realising his affection will need to wait.
"That was quiet a battle Ash... It's been a long time since Arcanine went down in a one on one battle." Blaine explained.
"What about Drake?" Ash asked, curious about his brother.
"It took both his Snorlax and Starmie." Blaine explained. "Anyway... As proof of winning your battle, here is your Volcano Badge.". Blaine handed the badge over. It is red and shaped like a flame with a small pink diamond in the centre.
"Thanks Blaine." Ash replied, excited. "WE GOT... THE VOLCANO BADGE!". Ash, Pikachu and Gyarados all let out victory cries and struck poses.
"Hahaha, so tell me Ash... Where are, you going now?" Blaine asked, laughing at the trainer's outburst, the joys of youth.
"Well... Serena still has her Chateau challenge tomorrow." Ash replied. "Then we are going back to Pallet since Saffron City is still under Team Rocket.".
"Then allow me to offer you your rooms at the Riddle Inn." Blaine told his challenger.
"Thanks Blaine... That would be awesome." Ash replied grateful.
"All I ask is that you keep the gyms secret to yourself." Blaine replied. "And once we leave here, I am Ridge again.".
"Of course, Blaine... Having to solve the puzzle and prove ourselves has made this a gym to remember." Ash replied. Misty and Serena approached from behind.
"Yeah... How did you solve those riddles, Ash?" Misty asked in a teasing tone, knowing it was her who solved the riddles.
"Hahaha... It doesn't matter as the only trial required to win the badge is the battle." Blaine reassured, seeing Ash's expression. "Everything else was just done for fun.".
"Well Blaine... That was probably our toughest battle yet." Ash replied.
"Good... But they only get tougher from here." Blaine replied. "And I know G, from the Viridian Gym is looking forward to your battle.".
"But first Serena has to win her Chateau Challenge." Ash replied. "And I should probably get these guys to the pokemon centre. With that, everyone said bye and they left for the pokemon centre.
"Thanks, Professor." Ash told Oak over the video phone. "Everyone has arrived safe.". Once Tauros, Charizard, Sandslash and Gyarados were healed, Ash decided to rotate his pokemon. His current team is: Pikachu, Pidgeotto, Dragonair, Ivysaur, Primeape and Aerodactyl.
"No problem Ash, I'm sure Gyarados and the others could use a nice rest after your gym battle." The Professor replied.
"Yeah... Well Professor, I should be going." Ash told Oak.
"Very well... Take care of yourself and your pokemon." The Professor replied.
"I will... Bye." Ash finished and turned off the phone. He then turned to Pikachu.
"What's up?" Pikachu asked having a good guess based on what he said at the gym.
"What did you mean when you talked about Drake?" Ash asked.
"Hmm..." Pikachu sighed. "I had my own brother.".
"What happened." Ash asked.
"Long ago... Before I met the caped weirdo..." Pikachu went on to explain his story...
In Pallet Leaf, has just walked into the south of the small town after walking from the port where she got off her boat from Cinnebar. She wasn't expecting to see Gary waiting for her.
"Took you long enough." Gary arrogantly declared.
"What are you doing here, Gary?" Leaf asked, then she grew a mischievous smile. "Was you waiting for me?".
"No." Gary abruptly replied. "I've just finished training for the day and heard you should be showing up.".
"Awe, so you did come to meet me." Leaf teased. That made the arrogant trainer blush slightly.
"I said NO." Gary replied.
"Relax, you know I'm teasing you." Leaf reassured with a pout.
"Pft... Annoying girl." Gary replied with an eye roll. Leaf stuck her tongue at Gary's nickname for her... The same one he uses for Serena and Daisy and any other females that tease him... Or gets on his nerves. Throwing his hands into his pockets, Gary turned around and was going to walk way, but he soon discovered something along with Leaf.
"Prepare for Trouble." Cassidy announced.
"And make it double." Butch announced.
"To infect the world with devastation." Cassidy replied.
"To en-light all people in every nation." Butch replied.
"To denounce the goodness of truth and love." Cassidy struck a pose.
"To extend our wrath to the stars above." Butch struck a pose.
"Cassidy.".
"Butch.".
"We're Team Rocket, circling Earth each day and night." Cassidy struck a final pose.
"Surrender to us now, or you'll surely lose the fight." Butch struck a final pose.
"Raticate." A Raticate appeared and struck a pose.
"Cassidy?" Leaf questioned.
"And Bob?" Gary questioned.
"IT'S BUTCH!" Butch yelled. "Don't kids know respect.".
"Respect... I'm the Grandson of Professor Oak and son of Champion Blue Oak." Gary snarled. "If anyone deserves respect, it's me.".
"Ha... Like those two mean anything to Team Rocket." Cassidy replied.
"Team Rocket... So, you're after our pokemon." Leaf reasoned as she gripped a Pokeball, hearing Leaf's claim, he also gripped a Pokeball.
"Don't flatter yourself... We couldn't care less about your pathetic pests." Butch spat.
"So, what do you want?" Leaf asked, genuinely confused.
"Our boss needs your presents." Cassidy explained. This shocked the two trainers and before either could reply, Butch threw a metal cube at their feet, and a gas was released, knocking them both out. The grunts picked the two trainers up and threw them into the back of jeeps. Butch's phone rang.
"It's her." Butch gulped. They have successfully caught all five of their targets, so what does she want. He still has the scares from after the Safari Zone. Reluctantly, Butch answered the phone on loud speaker.
"Mission report." Ariana requested.
"All five of our targets are down." Cassidy replied.
"Good... Next go to Cinnebar." Ariana demanded. "Your target is the brat with the Pikachu... And his little friends.".
"Wait... Weren't Jessie and James supposed to get them?" Butch asked.
"Correct... But they failed in their mission, and are currently rotting in a cell." Ariana spoke with venom. "The boss has decided another break out isn't worth it... Understand?".
"Yes ma'am." Both Rocket agents replied in unison.
"Good... Now don't let me down." Ariana replied in a sinister tone before hanging up. Cassidy and Butch looked at each other, then burst out into laughter. The two buffoons failed, and now they will show them how it's done. Then they are guaranteed a promotion. With the positive thoughts in mind, the two set off for their next destination... Cinnebar Island...
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...