Author's Note:

Here it is Ash's seventh gym battle and the debut gym battle for Togetic. We also get to see the reunion of Pryce and his Mammothswine. Oh and let's not forget a particular rival cameo, it's a small appearance but an important one. Oh, and a peak at something special that's coming up, still the arc is a little bit away, but it'll definitely be in Johto. This chapter might've ended up longer than expected. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.


Chapter 66: Ash VS Pryce: Cold Shoulder

Ash took a deep breath.

His sweaty palm almost caused the rusted Pokeball in his hand. A constant thumbing against his chest was continuously reminding him of how out of rhyme his heart beat was right now. Opening his mouth to take a breath, his bottom jaw shivered, threatening to chatter his teeth together.

"Geez Ashy-boy, keep yourself together," Pikachu muttered in his ear, currently standing on his slanted shoulder. While he certainly wasn't heavy, Ash didn't have the motivation to even stand up straight. It's not unlikely for to be the devil or annoyance on Ash's shoulder, "I might start to mistake you for a Tivolian."

One might think that he was staring down a past foe like Mewtwo or even Team Rocket. Like he was facing death itself down in a single standoff, but he wasn't. He was still surrounded by his friends and Shelia and its barely been a thirty minute trek from the cave. Of course, they were having to follow Shelia for directions, but she insisted on the journey that he should be the one to reveal the discovery to Pryce, hence why he is holding the Pokeball right now.

Ash couldn't bring himself to reply to his starter. He felt the blood escaped his face, causing him to become a sickly pale colour, even if as he held his arm up to knock on the door. He wanted to go through with this, he really did but he also couldn't bring himself to do it. As if he froze in place. That must've become evident to those with him considering what echo sounded next.

"Hey-o Pryce!" Shelia shouted, "come and see ya'll old pal Shelia for a sec."

Taking a deep breath, Ash's barren tongue slapped against the dried walls of his mouth. He could feel every nerve in his body tempting him to run as far as he could. It's not that he didn't want to reunite Mamoswine and Pryce, it's just that he doesn't want to see the cold man again after what he said about Gyarados. It wasn't long before the ice type specialist appeared after opening the door. Up on locking eyes with Ash, his eyebrows lowered into a scowl.

"What do you want, child?" he asked.

"I, err-" Ash couldn't find his voice.

"Why don't ya'll step out with us, Pryce?" Shelia suggested, "your gonna want to see what the kid's got for ya, trust ya'll old pal Shelia."

Pryce seemed to grunt in response to that, clearly not interested in whatever they have to show him, but he stepped out and pulled the door shut behind him. He didn't move a step from in front of his home and crossed his arms. His hardened stare focused directly on Ash, intimidating enough to make the boy freeze in place.

"I'm waiting," he called out.

"Come on Ash, press the button, call I choose you and end it like one of the Disney movies where friendships prevails," Pikachu encouraged.

While he doesn't watch nearly as many movies as his starter does, he gets the gist of his reference here. Taking a deep breath, Ash turned around and held his arm out before releasing the old ice guardian. Although he couldn't bring himself to make any sort of verbal acknowledgement.

In a flash of red light, the giant brown furry Mamoswine appeared right in front of them. His eyes lowered as they looked straight past Ash, it was clear who he was focusing on. While he couldn't see Pryce, it was as if some sort of invisible force was preventing him from turning around to see the old man's reaction.

"Young Ash here found Mamoswine stuck in a cave," Shelia's voice explained, "ya see. He never abandoned you, he went to find some herbal remedies for your injuries back then and got stuck. He evolved while stuck in that cave and couldn't escape as a result."

As she spoke, Pryce walked past Ash and up to the large furry Pokémon. While he couldn't see the man's face, his body was relaxed, shoulders slumped down but at the same time, each step seemed uncertain as his legs wobbled as if on a field of ice. Eventually, the old man collapsed onto his knees in front of the ice ground type.

"The cave he was in, only had one exit on the surface and he was too big to fit through it," Shelia continued, "he couldn't even get close to the exit because of the low ceiling so Ash sent his Pikachu to find us-"

"Hey! I came using my own genius!" Pikachu interrupted.

"That's right, you did a good job, Pika," Shelia smiled at him, clearly not understanding what he actually said, "any who, so he lead us into the cave and thanks to your old pal Shelia, who didn't throw out the Pokeball when asked too, we was able to help him escape and here we are now."

Ash could only watch as the old grumpy man collapsed onto his knees before Mamoswine moved forward and embraced him best he could despite standing on all four legs with nothing to actually hug him with. Mamoswine gave a soft small lick to the side of Mamoswine as Pryce threw his arms around both sides of the ice ground types head. For most, this would be a beautiful reunion between old friends who probably thought they'd never see each other again.

But for Ash, it wasn't.

Unable to keep watching this, Ash had to turn to the side. He could barely make out the muffles of Pryce apologising between tears. Ash had to bite his bottom lip to stop his own tears from escaping. While happy he was able to reunite friends, the scene reminded him of Gyarados once again. This just proves how wrong Pryce was when talking about how his situation was similar to Ash's.

First, he believed that Piloswine left of his own accord, abandoning him because of their loss but that clearly wasn't what happened. He left to only help his trainer and got physically lost, again not even close to what happened to Gyarados. The atrocious Pokémon never left; he was taken. That's why this reunion was so tough to watch, they clearly shared a similar connection to that which Ash shared with his water flying type, but Ash will never get that reunion. Even if Lance decided he was strong enough to handle Gyarados again and returned him, his memories are lost forever. He will never be the Gyarados Ash got to know and love as a best friend.

Even if his shows of affection could get old, Ash would do anything for just one more of them. Despite not looking, Ash could still hear the muffled cries of Pryce as he had his reunion with his starter. He even heard Pryce say something about being sorry because he just assumed the worst and didn't try looking for him after his injuries healed.

"If Mamoswine tried to escape the cave, then the ceiling would've collapsed on him before he even got close to the exit," Shelia continued, "he may be tough but even he couldn't handle thousands of tons of mountain falling on him. Not to mention, even if he could've escaped by some miracle, it would've trapped the other Pokémon in the cave and we both know he wouldn't do something like that."

Unable to take it any longer, Ash felt his feet start to walk away but before he got too far away, a small hand tapped his shoulder. It didn't take a genius to work out it belonged to Pikachu and a silent cue for him to stop. Not really contemplating anything on his own due to his emotional state, Ash did so. He probably would do any instructions the little electric guy gave him right now, no-matter how out there.

Not two seconds later-

"So Pryce, ya'll gonna accept Ash's gym challenge now?" Shelia asked, "he was the one who found Mamoswine, after all."

Taken by surprise, Ash's eyes burst open. He completely forgot about his gym battle. He didn't reunite Mamoswine with Pryce for the promise of a battle but because it's the right thing to do. Recent events at the lake proved the importance of seeing friends and he would give anything to see Gyarados again, his Gyarados. Even if that isn't possible, he wouldn't want anyone else to be tormented by this same fate. Guess his head was so screwed up that his gym battle completely escaped him.

"Yes, yes, of course I'll accept you battle," Pryce replied, "I have a pre-scheduled challenger first thing so show up around noon. Alright."

Not wanting to intrude any longer and happy to accept the scheduled time for his challenge, the group began to leave. As he walked, Ash couldn't help but take a small look back to see Pryce scratching Mamoswine under the chin. While a nice scene to most, Ash was reminded about how his Gyarados use to like being scratched there. Closing his eyes to prevent more tears which threatened to escape, he focused forward trying to ignore that which he'll never experience again.


Ash took a deep breath as he watched his current team. They were lined up in front of him, all looking at him expectantly. Pikachu, Sandslash, Heracross, Houndoom, Croconaw and Togetic. Good thing is battles normally drag him into a world all of its own. It's how he is able to remain calm during the previous leagues despite the large crowds. So hopefully the same will be true since his mind has been solely focused on his lost friend as of late.

"Okay guys, today is the day we take on the Mahogany gym," Ash replied, "and err, I guess I want to wish you luck."

"Luck?" Pikachu replied, "not what the plan is or anything like that?"

"Don't start," Houndoom sighed.

"N-no, Pikachu has a point," Ash replied, shaking his head to try and refocus his attention, "alright. The plan is for a three on three battle and I'll use Togetic, Croconaw and Sandslash respectively. I'll probably start with Togetic since he has the biggest disadvantage in terms of type and experience."

Ash took a deep breath.

"I know Pryce has Mamoswine now, but I don't know if he'll use it. If he does, Croconaw you have the type advantage," Ash continued, "and Sandslash-"

"I know how it works, since I'm the most experienced I'll be saved till last," he cut Ash off, "that's fine. Just make sure I get someone decent to fight. And once I'm out, I don't want to be recalled unless I fall."

"Admirable," Houndoom replied, "but that might not be best for a winning strategy. You'd be better-"

"Hold on, bub, I'm not one of your pack or whatever, so don't think you can just boss me around like that," Sandslash growled, slamming his claw down into the dirt in front of the dark fire type, who turned to look at him, "the only strategy I need is to hit the opponent until they fall. If you have a problem with that, tell someone who cares. Don't expect me to change my approach because the others can't pull their weight. That's not my problem."

"Guys, calm down, no point in fighting among yourselves," Ash jumped between them, holding his arms out to completely block them off from each other.

"Apologises, Ash," Houndoom replied, "if your fine with his approach then I won't question it. But if Togetic is to be injured or stuck in an unfavourable match up because of his actions, then I will have it out with him."

"Don't worry Houndoom, I won't let that happen to Togetic," Ash replied, kneeling down to his level, "but you might want to stay on Sandslash's good side. He may be rough around the edges, but he is a good Pokémon at heart. I think you two might have more in common than you think."

"I highly doubt that," Houndoom admitted, "but I will respect your wishes and will do my best to fulfil them."

"Thank you," Ash replied, giving his dark Pokémon a rub on the head before standing back up, "so any questions?"

"I-I have one," Heracross nervously raised his arm. Ash gave a small nod to encourage him to continue, "if your using Togetic, Croconaw and Sandslash, why did you swap the rest of us over?"

"I brought the season ticket, so I just get back stage access to each show," Pikachu pipped up.

"He wasn't asking you," Houndoom growled, "and do you take anything seriously?"

"About the same amount of things that get you to loosen up or crack a smile," Pikachu retorted.

"Stop it!" Ash called out. While he loves Houndoom and knows he only tries to do what's right by the team, he does seem to have a habit of picking fights with the other Pokémon. He is kinda like Dragonair in that sense. Ash took a deep breath before refocusing on Heracross, "and to answer your question Heracross. Since its the seventh gym, it might be more than three on three or a previous leader used Roar to force a switch and throw us off, so I brought both of you because you and Houndoom have a type advantage over the ice type in general."

"Oh, okay then," Heracross replied.

"Don't worry, if it is more than three aside I'll pick whichever of you have the best advantage," Ash replied, "so Houndoom if he has some sort of ice flying type or something or you if it's an ice water type. Of course, we don't even know if it will get to that point."

After receiving confirmation that everyone was happy with the plan, Ash recalled his team as Pikachu took his place on his shoulder. Once all Pokeballs were secure on his belt, he made his way around the side of the Pokémon centre to meet his friends at the entrance.


Pikachu wasn't happy, as they set off through the town of Mahogany.

Not about the little dispute with Houndoom but more so with his trainer. While he seems focused enough on the battle and should be fine to win the gym badge, it is more to do with his relationship with Sere. Last night, they didn't cuddle again. He could've slept in the gap between them if he so wished, which was never an option before. Of course, Larvitar has slept between them before but not since he was first caught when they first reached Johto.

As they continued through the traditional mountain town, Pikachu found it weird that they actually set up a gym in this place. Most gyms have been located in the big city places, well apart from those in the Orange Archipelago. Guess he wants to focus less on his trainers state of mind if these are the thoughts that enter his mind.

It didn't take them long to reach the gym building and just like the previous day, it wasn't anything impressive. Its bare appearance is probably a result of it being based in a small town. At least the gate was open, which clearly showed it as a sign of being open. Plus, they were likely busy with that pre-booked challenger, so they quickly made their way into the plain building.

Upon entering the large double doors, a blast of cold air hit them. All the humans gasped but Pikachu was able to bite his tongue, his warm fur adding to his resistance of this. Not to mention, it wasn't as cold as that cave yesterday. Ahead of them was a dark corridor but it was barely illuminated by the sun shining through the few windows scattered on the side of the wall. Just like the outside, it didn't really stand out any, just a plain cold hallway.

With it being the only way to go, they began to travel down it. They didn't talk much but Pikachu noticed that the deeper they entered the building, the colder it seemed to get. At the end of the corridor was another door, with sounds of what was evidently a battle taking place on the other side. Without much hesitation, Ash pushed the door open and once again they were hit by a blast of cold air, much closer to that of the cave.

Pikachu's eyes were instantly drawn towards the battlefield. It appeared to be a regular rectangle shape of every other official field but was covered in ice with several pillars set up around. Although the centre was an unfrozen pool of water. Not massive but big enough for most Pokémon to swim in.

Although the thing that truly caught his attention was the Pokémon. A large Lapras, much bigger than Ash's one was on the ice in front of Pryce. The ice type leader was still in his shorts and short sleeved polo shirt.

Pikachu felt cold just looking at him.

However, the may interest was his opponent. He could only see the back of the opposing trainer, but he wasn't that interesting. No, the truly interesting thing was the orange plump Pokémon stood opposing the Lapras. It was launching off a powerful Thunderbolt, but was barely being kept back by the Lapras' icy wind.

"Charge in," the trainers voice commanded.

Not a moment later, the plump orange Pokémon charged forward. It wasn't particularly fast, but he could feel each thud as it crossed the icy field, it was clearly a powerful Pokémon which would pack quite a punch. As if to prove this, it leaped the last part towards Lapras before punching Lapras where its neck met hits body.

Lapras went sliding backwards but the Pokémon wasn't done yet. In one swift moment, it swung its loose lightening shaped tail around, as the tip turned to metal before it bashed into Lapras' head. Knocking it to the ground as swirls replaced its eyes.

"Lapras is unable to continue, make the winner of this battle-" Shelia's voice echoed but Pikachu zoned out.

This was because the Pokémon who won the battle finally turned around and Pikachu couldn't believe it. Despite being his evolved form, he would reconsign him anywhere, he thought he'd never see him again. To most, he might look like every other Raichu but Pokémon in general are better at tell the differences between those who share the same species and there is no doubt in Pikachu's mind.

It was his brother. He was here and was in front of him.

But before he could make any sort of move to get his long lost siblings attention, he disappeared in a flash of red light. This caused Pikachu to look towards his brother's trainer although it was difficult to make anything out. He was still looking away from them, but Pikachu noticed medium length purple hair and somewhere familiar clothes.

It couldn't be, could it? His brother couldn't have him as a trainer.

Said human approached Pryce before being handed something, predictably his badge for winning. When the human turned to leave, finally facing them, Pikachu's worst thoughts were confirmed. His brother had possibly the worst trainer he could've imagined... his trainer was Paul.

The cold boy approached them, locking eyes near him, probably. As he past, Pikachu froze, he couldn't bring himself to say anything. Part of him want to call out, try to get a chance to speak to his brother but he didn't. If he knew that boy from their past interactions, he wouldn't care, or he might even try to work his brother harder to ensure he doesn't end up like him and Ash... maybe an Iron Tail could set his brother free.

A barely audible humph, could be heard as Paul pushed his shoulder against Ash. Pikachu had to hold onto his trainers hoodie to prevent being thrown off. Although Ash didn't say anything. Looking at his trainer, anguish was evident on his face, showed by his darting eyes which were surrounded by bunching skin. Only added by his clenched jaw. There was even a visible cord in his neck.

Pikachu did the only thing he could think off and slapped his tail into his trainers face.

"Ow," Ash replied, as he took some steps back before regaining his balance.

"Honestly, I thought the first time I'd have to do that would be when you start staring at Serena," Pikachu joked.

"Urg, thanks Pikachu," Ash replied, although his pain drowned out the desired sarcasm, or at least that's what he presumed he wanted it sound like.

"So boy, I see your here for you gym battle," Pryce spoke, as he approached them, "can I ask what gym badge you're going for?"

"It'll be my seventh Johto gym badge," Ash replied, "but I competed in both the Orange league and Indigo League before."

"Similar to my last challenger," Pryce noted.

"Paul," Ash muttered.

"So you know him," Pryce replied, "quite the impressive battler but I'm afraid his views matched my previous ones."

"Yeah," Ash replied, clearly not knowing what else to say. Pikachu decided it was best not to mention the revelation to his trainer right now, wouldn't want to throw him off from the battle or mess up his mind any further.

"Mr Pryce, if you don't mind but could I ask you something," Brock spoke up.

"What is it, son?" Pryce asked.

"Did he use a Sudowoodo in your battle?" Brock asked, "Paul, I mean."

"He didn't," Pryce replied, "we had a two on two battle. My Glaceon and Lapras against his Raichu and Magmar. No Sudowoodo but could I ask why?"

Brock replied by pulling out a single Pokeball before releasing his Bonsly. Over the few months, he grew up quite a lot and wasn't quite a baby any more but he also wasn't training or battling yet. Hr hadn't really been off Brock's team either, only recently coming off the formula milk and onto solid food.

"It's because Paul's Sudowoodo is the mother of my Bonsly," Brock admitted, "I was hoping we could find something out and tell Bonsly about her."

"My apologises," Pryce replied, before turning back to Ash, "so, are you ready for your gym challenge?"

"I am," Ash admitted.

"Good, then I must ask something," Pryce replied, "I wish to use Mamoswine after yesterday, but he hasn't been officially assessed for a badge number yet. Are you okay with this?"

"Of course," Ash replied.

"Thank you," Pryce replied, "so our battle will be a four on four. You can substitute as you'd like while I can't. I'll also be starting the battle, so shall we begin."

Nodding in response, Ash began to walk with Pryce towards the field. Turning around on his shoulder, Pikachu leaped off before landing on Misty's shoulder because she was the closest of the other humans. He heard Serena give a quick wish of luck, but no response came from his trainer. They began to the few benches behind the field before taking seats behind Shelia who was on the ref's stand. Pikachu jumped down, landing on the bench as both his trainer and they gym leader took up a trainers box.

"This will be a four on four gym battle between the leader Pryce of Mahogany town and challenger Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town," Shelia declared, "it's a four aside battle but only the challenger can make substitutions. With no time limit, leader Pryce shall reveal his Pokémon first."

"Go Jynx!" Pryce shouted as his ice psychic type appeared in front of him.

The Pokémon looked of average size for its species, at least from what Pikachu saw from meeting past Jinx's. While its stature wasn't impressive, its face showed a fierce fighter ready for combat. Looking closer at its eyes, Pikachu could tell it was a hardened battler and would give a lot of trouble regardless of its opponent. Pikachu already knew who Ash would use and he sincerely hoped he'd be alright. Serena pulled out her Pokedex and Pikachu was able to barely hear its entry:

Jynx, The Human Shape Pokémon. The final evolved form of Smoochum. Jynx walks rhythmically, swaying and shaking its hips as if it were dancing. Its motions are so bouncingly alluring, people seeing it are compelled to shake their hips without giving any thought to what they are doing.

"Then I'll use, Togetic," Ash replied, releasing his fairy flying type.

Togetic appeared in a flash of light, swirling around the air as some small sparkles glittered down from him. Pikachu smiled as his pseudo nephew was clearly excited for his gym battle debut but seeing who he was battling did send an uncomfortable shiver down his spin. Hopefully, Togetic is ready for this.

"Your using a Togetic?" Pryce asked, as his eyebrow popped up, "not the best option when your against an ice type specialist."

"Maybe not, but he's really wanted to have his gym battle debut," Ash replied, "and there's more to a battle than type advantage."

"That's true, but don't expect us to go easy on either of you," Pryce replied, "even if you did save Mamoswine."

Ash nodded in response, as Togetic lowered down so he was hovering around the height of Ash. While he wasn't exactly an intimidating figure, Pikachu couldn't be more proud of Togetic. He doesn't need to win but just put up a good fight and looking into Togetic's eyes, Pikachu can tell that is gonna be a given.

"Jynx verses Togetic," Shelia raised her arms, "let the battle begin!"


Pryce verses Ash: (round one)

Ash smiled as the battle started.

Togetic quickly gained altitude and while not the fastest or most agile flier, it was perfect for this sort of room with a roof to limit its movement. He may not be able to do aerial combat like how Pidgeot or Aerodactyl does but against a grounded opponent, particularly a slow one, he has a clear advantage in that sense.

Jynx shifted slightly, raising her eyes before a ball of ice formed between them. A powerful beam of ice shot out of it, as if some sort of sorceress was creating more ice from that small source. It shot high into the air and following it, Ash watched Togetic barely avoid it by swirling around.

"Err, Ash, a little help," he heard Togetic's panicked voice.

It was clear that he was having trouble with avoiding Jynx's pin-point accuracy. He was swirling around the Ice Beam, to close for comfort as the human shaped Pokémon moved her own move with her mind instead of we blasting it. Not many Pokémon can manually manipulate beams like this, especially when still maintaining its power.

"Try to knock her off balance with Fairy Wind!" Ash shouted.

He too, wasn't sure what to do, well not entirely. It quickly became evident just how out matched Togetic was against this opponent, but it was too late to change his mind now, not that he would. He knew from the start Togetic would be the biggest disadvantage in the battle and that was why he started off with him.

The small happiness Pokémon dropped down as he cut out his flying path, quickly gaining distance from the Ice Beam, which now gave him a good amount of time to let out a loud cry before a powerful gust shot down towards Jynx. It was glittering with fairy type sparkles.

A finger clicked, looking at his opponent, it was evidently Pryce who did it.

Almost instantly, Jynx cancelled her Ice Beam and lowered her arms. Grunting, she was knocked back as she took the Fairy Wind head on. Worryingly, Jynx wasn't knocked back more than a few inches and considering the slippery surface she was on, gave Ash a pit in his stomach that if on solid ground then it wouldn't have been enough to move Jynx at all. Maybe she wouldn't have even noticed it, considering her expression resumed the fierce look after initial impact.

Before anything else could be contemplated or tactics switched up, Pryce's psychic ice type took a deep breath before unleashing a powerful wind of her own, only this one was filled with icicles. It knocked the Fairy Wind back, breaking it up as it hurled towards Togetic who was desperately trying to regain altitude to avoid it.

"Ancient Power as a shield!" Ash shouted.

Togetic let out a mighty cry as several rocks formed around him. It was able to block the Icy Wind but not before it knocked him back slightly. At least he was able to protect his smaller body. Seeing that his happiness Pokémon couldn't do anything else in this situation, Ash tried to think of something to give them the edge.

But before he could, Togetic began to charge down with the Ancient Power. It became evidently more difficult for him as he got closer to the source of the Icy Wind, but he launched the four rocks forward and slammed them into the human shape Pokémon. Using the moment and the cancelled Icy Wind, Togetic dived in further and got into his opponents face before small sparks of electricity jumped off him and surrounded Jynx.

Togetic tried to quickly regain altitude after inflicting the paralysis on his opponent but it didn't work. Ash's tried to call out, but it was too late, Jynx's eyes began to glow as a nearby ice pillar snapped in half before shooting up at his fairy flying type. Piercing past him, he wasn't able to dodge it because he wasn't watching it happen and thus didn't know it was a threat. Not that it's a surprise, after all most Pokémon would be overwhelmed by paralysis at first so he probably assumed he had a good few moments to escape. As he began to fall after being struck by the ice rock, Ash quickly made his decision.

"Return Togetic!" Ash called out.


"Togetic has been returned but is able to be returned any time," Shelia declared, "may the challenge choose their next Pokémon."

Releasing a breath he didn't know he was holding, Ash looked down at the friend ball in his hand. His friend was completely outmatched by the human shaped Pokémon, Pryce didn't even need to give a single command that entire battle, just a simple click of the fingers.

"Your Togetic was brave but reckless," Pryce instructed, "it got lucky by getting that shield up in time. When I clicked my finger, I told Jynx to hold back a bit so we could assess its ability properly."

Ash shut his eyes tight as he placed the Friend ball back onto his belt. That stung. He knew going in that Togetic would be his most vulnerable member he planned on using in this battle. Even if Sandslash is at a type disadvantage, he has much more experience so it wouldn't be as big of a deal. Was he wrong to let him try?

"I'm sorry if that seems harsh," Pryce continued, "I am still grateful for what you did for both myself and Mamoswine but I can't let that affect how I handle a gym challenger, each badge is a rite of passage and it wouldn't be fair if I let my own biased get in the way of someone passing through that right."

Biting his lower lip, Ash peered his eyes open and looked across the field. He saw Pryce standing with his arms cross and an unreadable expression which matched his Jynx's one. Running what was said through his head again, Ash realised it wasn't very different from how other gym leaders critiqued his decisions. Just look at Morty, he made a point about how he made a mistake to use Houndour a second time when Alakazam would've been fine. He may sound harsher but maybe that's just Pryce's natural voice.

Taking a deep breath to regain his composure, Ash dried his slightly wet eyes. He knew the reason, the real reason he took that critique so much harder, it was because of him still being sore from losing Gyarados. He can't let that affect him right now. He has to do his best for his remaining Pokémon, if nothing else.

Togetic is out for now and deserves a good rest, and it's too early to show Sandslash as his ace for the battle. He could use either Heracross or Houndoom as both are good against Jynx's psychic type but as his open slot it is best to hold off on using either of them now. That leaves one option, but not a bad one by any means. Croconaw has plenty of dark attacks to counter the psychic type. Plus his natural dancing ability and the slippery ice could even give him a surprising agility advantage.

"Then you're up next, Croconaw!" Ash shouted, tossing his Fast Ball up into the air.

In a flash of light, Ash's pure water type appeared on the field. Shaking slightly upon materialising, he shook himself before standing up tall. While he was facing away from Ash himself, it was easy to tell he had that comedically large grin on his face, as he always does. Just the thought was enough to make a small smile appear on his own face.

"Jynx verses Croconaw," Shelia declared, "let the battle begin."


Pryce verses Ash: (round two)

Croconaw was cold. The best way to beat that is to get moving, of course. Even since he evolved, he has been working on his dancing skillz, you know they are serious because he emphasises the z with them. He quickly began putting them into use to counter the coldness surround them. Due to not having any sort of music to move in time with, he also started clicking his tongue against the roof of his mouth to create his own beat, even if only he can hear it.

"I-is your Croconaw dancing?" a male voice asked.

Turning towards the source, Croconaw saw it was the leader who spoke. Knowing he wouldn't understand any words they said, he decided to respond in the only way he could think off. Doing a small leap, he landed on his feet before shooting the old guy a thumb-err-claw up. Winking, he slide straight back into another dance.

"Enough wasting time, Jynx," Pryce's voice could be heard again, "get him."

Next thing he knew, something hit near him and knocked him back slightly. Catching sight of it, he saw it was an ice beam curtsy of his opponent. Luckily, his constant dancing has proven a great way to avoid attacks even if they can't see them coming.

Ending up on his knees, Croconaw saw another Ice Beam coming back towards him, so he rolled out the way before dancing out of the way. Leaping forward, he jumped over the beam and did a spin mid-air. Clenching his fists, they became surrounded by ice as he did. Landing right next to his opponent, Croconaw reach out and grabbed one of his opponents hands before swinging her into the dance.

Due to her hands being the source of the ice beam, the attack was cancelled, and his next claw grabbed her other hand. Keeping up the high-temp tune with his tongue, he began to sway her in time with him. The shocked look on her face was amusing but to reassure her, he gave a signature wink.

"Use Psychic and stop him," the old guy's voice growled.

Seeing his dance partner's eyes begin to glow, he had to act fast. Opening his jaw, it became coated in dark type energy and he slammed them down as the psychic wave began soaring out towards him, acting as a shield. Coming eye to eye with his dance partner, he began to raise his eyebrows in a flirty manner.

"Alright Croconaw, you've had your fun, but we still have to win this battle," Ash's voice echoed.

Rolling his eyes, he knew Ash was right. He was just having a bit of fun, after all. Knowing his opponent was trying another attack, he decided to stop it before she could and flung his head back. Using the momentum, he sent Jynx flying over the top of him.

Landing on his back, he quickly rolled over and just in time to see his opponent face plant the ice before sliding partly away. Taking a deep breath, he launched the biggest jet of water out of his mouth that he could. It struck Jynx from behind and sent her blasting into a wall.

Assuming this was doing its job fine, Croconaw continued to blast her with as much water as possible. Jumping to his feet in the process, he was pushed back slightly due to the low friction against the ice. Slamming his feet claws down into the ice to prevent this, he continued to blast out his water jet.

Although a small tingle around his lips appeared, that can't be good.

"Get under the water!" he heard Ash cry out.

Not questioning his trainer's instructions, Croconaw ended his water attack before leaping up. A powerful Ice Beam shot underneath him before he did a spin, diving straight down into the pool of water at the centre of the field. He never tried synchronised swimming, mainly because no-one would do it with him.

As soon as he was submerged in the water, his eyes burst open. The surface was cold, but his dancing kept him warm enough despite it, but the water was so much colder and not as easy to dance in. Guess he'll need to get out of this soon, he can't not dance, after all. Swimming under the thin layer of ice which made up the field, he saw the feet of his opponent above him. Not wasting another moment, he charged up at his fastest speed whilst under the water.

Breaking through the ice, he used another Crunch attack but this time not as a shield, taking Jynx upwards with him. After the initial launch, he loosened his jaws grip and grabbed hold of her. Feeling a new type of energy surging through his body. Spinning around with his opponent in his arms before throwing her down onto the ice.

Doing a frontward roll, Croconaw landed in front of her before striking a pose. Jynx was surrounded by slightly cracked ice beneath her while her eyes were replaced with swirls. It wasn't long before the water type got back to dancing on the ice, it was very cold especially after a swim.

"Jynx is unable to continue," the old women announced, "the winner of this round was Ash and his Croconaw!"


Ash smiled as he watched his water type hope back and forth, like a boxer preparing to enter the ring. Part of him thought about recalling him because him tiring out but on the other side, he is now use to the coldness and has warmed up so recalling him might reverse that. Guess the only thing to help him decide would be to see who Pryce uses next. Most ice types his water type will be fine against but if there's such a thing as an ice grass or ice electric type then of course he'll switch out.

"Good job, Croconaw!" Ash called out.

His big jaw Pokémon looked back and flashed him a thumbs up. A small smile appeared on his face as Ash remembered all the good times he had with his Croconaw and his other Pokémon. This would definitely be up there. It's the first time he was able to feel happy since the incident at the lake.

"Your Croconaw is certainly unique for its species, having a great deal of agility truly was a surprise," Pryce announced, "so let's see how he handles this, go Dewgong!"

Ash took a deep breath as the water ice type appeared on the icy floor in front of Pryce. It was much bigger than Serena's and had a much larger horn. Its expression was also similar to Jynx's from before. He did expect it try and make its way to the pool first off, but it just stood still, staring them down. Pulling out his Pokedex, Ash scanned it for a quick refresher:

Dewgong, The Sea Lion Pokémon. The final evolved form of Seel. Dewgong loves to snooze on bitterly cold ice. The sight of this Pokémon sleeping on a glacier was mistakenly thought to be a mermaid by a mariner long ago.

"Just so you know, Ash, like I said before, I told Jynx to tone it down against your Togetic," Pryce called out, "I won't tell any of the others to do that."

Putting his device back into his pocket, Ash narrowed his eyes while looking at his opponent. It was clearly a strong and well trained Pokémon. Not to mention, it wasn't exactly the best option for Croconaw to face but out of the rest of his team, he doesn't have a good option. Plus, if what he said about Jynx holding back was true, then the battle will get a whole lot tougher. Guess there's only one way to make up this decision.

"Are you happy to keep going, Croconaw?" Ash asked.

His water type looked back and gave a serious expression, quite the contrast compared to his usually jolly one. He may not be a massive battle lover or training nut like several of his Pokémon, but he does enjoy a good battle. Just his child-like excitement is enjoyable.

"Dewgong verses Croconaw," Shelia declared, "let the battle begin!"


Pryce verses Ash: (round three)

Ash held his breath. As soon as the battle started, the two Pokémon came to a stop, Croconaw wasn't even dancing. A thick tension filled the air as he was reminded by one of those old Weston films that are on television every so often. Pikachu has a habit to watch them when staying at Pokémon centres.

Not that it matters, as Dewgong made the first move. He swung his head around while letting out an echo-y sort of cry. Swiping his head down, the horn was pointed directly at Croconaw before a multicoloured beam shot out of it. Luckily, Ash's pure water type was always fast on his feet and easily jumped out of the way. He soared over the field before rolling and landing in a kneeling position, the pool behind him and Dewgong in front, no-longer firing off his Aurora Beam.

Before he could stand, however, Dewgong shot forward with great momentum. Even with great dancing ability, Croconaw still has to be careful on ice. He clearly tried to move out of the way but ended up slipping on the slippery field. Moments later, he was tackled by his opponent and dragged into the water.

"Careful Croconaw, Dewgong has much better movement in water!" Ash called out, "and since its cold, he'll survive it better than you can!"

Trying to pierce through the frozen field, he could briefly see a white blur swim underneath which was evidently Pryce's Dewgong. It gave Ash a sick pit at the bottom of his stomach, it was likely that it had Croconaw trapped or was playing Meowth and Ratatta with him.

He quickly tried to think of something to help his dancing Pokémon but before he could, Croconaw came flying up from the field, engulfed by a green beam which Ash instantly reconsigned as a Signal Beam. Made sense, water and ice moves wouldn't do much to Croconaw so Dewgong went with a bug move. However, the worst part was, it wasn't through the water hole in the middle, Croconaw had been blasted up through the ice floor itself and crashed high into the ceiling.

"Weird, I thought gyms had retractable ceilings, like Jasmine's gym," Ash heard Brock wonder aloud as his water type fell back down, Dewgong jumping out of the water through the hole in the field Croconaw created.

"It's not a requirement and it costs too much for my liking," Pryce replied, "and not many people come challenging with flying types, so we hardly get complaints about it."

"But don't you have any Pokémon to take advantage to take advantage of it?" Brock asked, "I know I recently caught a Delibird myself and-"

"If I ever catch an Articuno, I'll consider it," Pryce cut him off, sarcasm filling his voice.

Ash looked back at the field and saw his Croconaw was shivering, as drops of water dripped from his body. He was clearly close to fainting and looking at Dewgong, despite seeing it from the back, was stood tall and with controlled breaths. As if still fresh out to the battle. Ash knew he had to get Croconaw in close if he wanted to a chance to win.

"Croconaw, can you still dance?" Ash asked. His big jaw Pokémon nodded, the corner of his mouth twitching up into a smirk, "great! Then do that and get in closer!"

The pure water type nodded and slowly began to click his claws together, clearly trying to get the beat for his next dance routine. Honestly, it was a lot of fun to see how despite being very different from his other Pokémon, Croconaw has a unique battle style all for himself. Come to think of it, didn't Tierno in the Orange League use a dancing battle style? Maybe Croconaw could learn something from him or even teach him something.

As he began to slide around on the ice, Dewgong let out another echo-y cry before launching off some more Aurora Beams. Ash knew that he was using the ice move because the cold would be the perfect counter to Croconaw's agility whilst dancing but this was what Ash wanted. He knows Croconaw won't beat Dewgong, but he can do be sure to set up the field for his next Pokémon and Dewgong is playing right along with his plan.

"What are you up to, boy?" Pryce asked.

Not answering the gym leader, Ash just watched the field. His Croconaw was dancing around the field, carefully avoiding each Aurora Beam as he slowly closed the gap between himself and the sea lion Pokémon.

He landed next to the pool at the centre and did a spinning jump over it as Dewgong launched another Aurora Beam. It missed Croconaw but just by a hair, more importantly it hit the hole and filled it in with water. A small cheer from him caused both Pokémon to stop and turn towards him

"You think my Dewgong needs the water to battle?" Pryce asked, "why underestimate us?"

"I'm not, but Croconaw, charge forward for Superpower!"

Croconaw nodded before launching himself forward as a red outline surrounded him. Dewgong turned back and a familiar glow of the horn indicated he tried to launch another Aurora Beam, but he was to slow. Croconaw grabbed a hold of his horn and forced it downwards before the ice move fired, freezing the second hole to the water.

Before he could continue, however, Dewgong swung his head and knocked Croconaw away crashing into one of the new ice pillars created by one of the missed Aurora Beams just now when Croconaw was dancing. Not a second later, Dewgong crashed into him, smashing the pillar.

Dewgong landed looking completely unharmed before sliding across the ice towards Pryce, in his original starting position. Revealing Croconaw who was flat out on his stomach, swirls in his eyes and all limbs spread out. Dewgong was just too much for him to handle.

"Croconaw is unable to continue," Shelia announced, "the winner being Pryce and his Dewgong."


Ash sighed as he held his Fast ball out, returning his fallen pure water type. He knew that it was unlikely that Croconaw could handle Dewgong, but he did better than nothing and they were at least able to surprise Pryce through his dancing battle style.

"Thank you, Croconaw," Ash whispered to the device containing his energetic friend, "I promise your hard work won't go to waste."

"Your Croconaw may have a unique style for its species but it's not invincible and uses more energy than most through its dancing style," Pryce replied, "you should've turned it after the battle with Jynx. Gave it time to recover and maybe finish off another Pokémon in a later round."

Taking a deep breath, he placed his Croconaw's Fast Ball back onto his belt before reaching for a plain Pokeball. Togetic doesn't really have anything useful against Dewgong except maybe Thunder Wave but that wouldn't be enough for him to win. Considering Sandslash's history with water, it would be crazy for him to use him as even if he would win, it would be dangerous for the sea lion in case he lost control. That means he has to choose between either Heracross or Houndoom. Houndoom is much more experienced but at a bigger disadvantage. Plus, Heracross isn't exactly a slouch so-

"You're up next, Heracross!" Ash shouted.

In a flash of light, his bug fighting type appeared right in front of him. Stood tall, Ash saw him shiver which wasn't exactly surprising considering it is freezing in here but once the battle starts and he starts moving, just like with Croconaw. Although the water type is quicker to move thanks to his dancing style.

"Don't worry about the cold, Heracross!" Ash shouted.

The single horn Pokémon turned back towards him and nodded as he narrowed his eyes. Even if not the same sort of battle spirit as some of the other members of his team, Heracross has worked hard to become better and Ash trusts that he won't stop now. It won't be easy but

"First Togetic, then Croconaw and now a Heracross?" Pryce called out, "I know you've competed in two leagues before Johto, but all your choices so far are Johto natives which implies they were caught here. I can't tell if it's meant to be some sort of arrogance thing or friendship but it's a risky move on your part boy.

Ash took a deep breath, deciding it was best not to respond. Maybe it wasn't the smartest move looking back as he could've made a much stronger team with maybe Charizard and Primeape but that would also push the work Togetic, Heracross and Croconaw have put in. Although should he do the same for the eighth gym, its meant to be a dragon type specialist which is considered by most to be the strongest individual type, or second only to psychic and as the eighth gym leader, would likely bring a much tougher challenge... well, he can worry about that when he gets to Blackthorn, for now he has to focus on this gym battle.

Heracross turned back and slammed presumably his fists together, as he typically does to become motived. As long as Heracross can get in close, then he should be alright and of course Croconaw didn't have an issue like that but Heracross isn't as energetic so they'll have to see.

"Dewgong verses Heracross," Shelia declared, "let the battle begin!"


Pryce verses Ash: (round four)

Heracross shot high into the air, it wasn't the fastest or anything, he was never about speed but more about pure power. A blast of something shot past him, sending a numbing feeling into his wing, causing him to move to the side as a way to avoid the main hit.

Realising he wouldn't be able to keep his distance due to his opponent having pin point accuracy, Heracross leaned down and began charging towards the water ice type below him. Seeing another blue beam of ice shoot towards him, he felt a familiar tingle in his horn which glew white before a large barrage of pins shot outside. Seeing the moves collide, Heracross knew he would have to pass through it to reach his target.

Lowering his altitude, he didn't continue the Pin Missile but kept his energy built up in his head appendage. Picking up speed, the beam shot over his head as some sort of invisible force protected him from that move. He shot forward and crashed horn first into his opponent. Megahorn is his strongest move for pure power.

"Close Combat!" Ash yelled.

Not needing to think twice, Heracross clenched his fists before punching out. He quickly a massive assault as his opponent cried out. Despite being gentle at heart, he has learnt that his opponents enjoy a good fight and not giving it his all is disrespectful to them.

He wasn't able to properly look at his opponent as he was concentrating on putting as much power into his attack that he could. Next thing he knew, however, he felt a massive force hit him and knock him back before feeling wet as he skid over the icy field. Pushing himself up, he shook his body trying to get the water off him, but he soon felt an icy wind blow past which was extra cold to the water now covering his body.

"Endure and close in!" Ash's voice echoed in his head.

Heracross took a deep breath, trying to ignore the numbing feeling all over his body. He felt a certain heat form in the pit of his stomach, and he tried to force it out as it spread across himself. Despite not being completely shield, he began running. Unable to take off due to the cold wind surrounding him.

"Ice Beam!" an old gruff voice yelled.

"Arm Thrust!" Ash's voice followed.

Heracross held his arms up and felt the familiar feeling tingle within them as they glew white. Next thing he knew, he felt something hit him hard, but it wasn't enough to stop him. To help himself get closer towards his opponent, he began pushing outwards and chipping away the Ice Beam as he got closer and closer.

Before long, he was right in front of the sea lion Pokémon and he just went ahead unleashing a brutal assault. He continued to lash out as he felt the coldness take over. His vision became blurred as the coldness over took them.

Everything went dark.


"Both Pokémon are unable to continue," Shelia declared, "as the gym leader, Pryce shall reveal his next Pokémon first."

Ash sighed as he recalled his Heracross. This battle is not going well at all. Obviously, coming in with two Pokémon who are at a type disadvantage wasn't the smartest move but considering who they are, Ash wouldn't swap his decision in a heartbeat. Besides, Heracross did a great job all things considered and if you count the numbers, then they are even right now with two remaining each. Of course, one of Ash's has already battled but let's not focus on that bit.

"Well your Heracross was well trained," Pryce called out, "but it was too little too late. It would've been better if you started with him and not came in with your Togetic. Now enough talk, your next Weavile."

Ash felt his breath stick in his throat as he took in the sight of the sharp claw Pokémon. It was the spitting image of Silver's and that might be a given but considering what that one did, especially to both Pikachu and Sandslash, it wasn't exactly exciting to see that they would be battling another one.

Well he has two Pokémon to choose from, Togetic and Sandslash. Well the obvious choice is Togetic, after all Sandslash isn't likely to care that this isn't the one who he battled previously and if he was to face it, then either of them would end up hurt, that's for certain. Plus, Togetic's fairy type is good against Weavile's dark type so he would be perfect to go back in. While not perfect and if Pryce's team have proven anything, Togetic likely won't beat this opponent, he deserves the shot.

Shaking his head, Ash decided to pull out his Pokedex for a quick refresher on this opponent for before sending out his pseudo-son. His hand trembled slightly as he pointed the device at the dark ice type. The look in its eye, a cold dark lifeless look of a hunter:

Weavile, The Sharp Claw Pokémon. The final evolved form of Sneasel. Thanks to its increased intelligence, scrapping over food is a thing of the past. A scratch from its claws will give you a case of frostbite! They communicate with each other by leaving scratch marks which their prey can't understand.

Closing his eyes, Ash tried to calm himself as he placed the Pokedex back into his pocket. If he gets too bad, it will affect Togetic in the battle. He can't let the thought of Silver's Weavile control him. There are plenty of Weavile in the world and not all of them are like his. Besides, Pryce, even if a little grouchy still, is a respected gym leader and he wouldn't put another life in danger regardless of his previous views on friendship between trainer and Pokémon... right? Well, he might as well get it started with in that case-

"Then you're up, Togetic!" Ash shouted, tossing his Friend Ball up into the air.

In a flash of light, the fairy flying type burst into action. He was looking much better after that first round and almost look as good as knew. He did a little aerial dance before locking eyes with Weavile. Almost instantly he came to a stop, no-doubt he heard about Silver's and even if he hadn't, Weavile are very intimidating Pokémon.

"Hmm, so you're going with the Togetic again. At least it has somewhat of a type advantage this time," Pryce muttered, "Weavile be careful when closing in. It knows Thunder Wave and used it against Jynx. Wouldn't want any surprises, would we."

"What?" Togetic cried, doing a loop down so he was eye level with Ash, "that's not fair."

"If I faced Weavile before, you'd want me to warn you about any surprise tricks it used," Ash replied.

"Your point," Togetic replied.

Ash sighed, "what has Pikachu done to you."

"While its amusing to see how you seem to think you know what your Togetic is saying, boy, we do have a battle to get on with," Pryce called out, "are you ready?"

"We are," Ash confirmed, as Togetic spun around.

"Weavile verses Togetic," Shelia declared, "let the battle begin!"


Pryce verses Ash: (round five)

Togetic blinked. Not a moment after that lady person called the battle, Weavile disappeared. His little heart began to beat faster and harder against his chest. Normally he would feel safe in the air because it gave him a distinct advantage but if he couldn't see his opponent, how would he counter it?

"Get some air!" Ash's voice rang in his ears.

Nodding to himself, he lowered his eyebrows into narrowing his eyes. Flapping his wings as hard as he could, he took off high into the air. Seconds later, a sharp sting shot through his chest. Grimacing, he lost a little altitude but was able to re-start his wings before falling to far. Peeking through his eyes, he saw the sharp claw opponent land beneath him on one knee. It peered back at him and shot him a smirk before disappearing out of sight.

Not wanting to be caught again, he began beating his little wings a little harder. As he reached a good height, he got a nice view of the whole icy field, but his heart began threatening to explode when he realised he couldn't see his opponent. Maybe it was hiding but a couple small blurs made it clear it was running to fast to be tracked.

"Fairy Wind straight down!" Ash's voice echoed once more.

Even if he couldn't see his target, Togetic trusts his daddy's judgement call so he took a deep breath before beating his wings downwards. A gust blew down, one which sparkled with fairy type energy. Watching closely, a dark blue(ish) blur appeared and it was revealed as Weavile.

The dark ice type came to a stop and winced before reaching him. Despite fighting against his fairy wind attack, the sharp claw Pokémon got way to close to him. Luckily his daddy spotted it well before he did and that meant he could stop it from reaching him. Putting all his might into his attack, he began pushing his opponent straight down, and it smashed into the icy field below. Unfortunately, it got straight back up and turned before zooming off.

Togetic tried to track it but a loud screech hurt his ears. Scrunching his face as a natural reaction, he lost focus on his wings and began to fall down to the field. Despite trying to readjust it, a powerful force hit him from behind and he began to spin. This wasn't good.

"Togetic, try Thunder Wave!" Ash voice rang in his head.

Slamming into the icy cold floor, Togetic felt a familiar tingly feeling over his body. His eyes still glued shut, he couldn't see if his attack hit his opponent or did anything really, but he was very much shivering. He tried to push himself up against the frozen field but next thing he knew, he was being held by his neck.

His eyes burst open as he began struggling against the grip of Weavile. Their faces were mere inches apart and a small growl from Weavile gave him a very bad idea because of it. He began trying to struggle against the grip as a burning feeling began to form around his neck. It became hard to breath as a frozen mist began to blur his vision and the sinister smirk of his opponent dis appeared.

He tried to summon some Ancient Power, but he couldn't, the lack of oxygen was making each attempt to wiggle free that much weaker. As the cold-numbing over took his body, Togetic couldn't remain conscious and everything faded into blackness. Last thing he saw was the sinister smirk of Weavile looking directly into his soul.


"Togetic is unable to continue," Shelia declared, "making the winner of this round the leader Pryce and his Weavile!"

Ash couldn't take it anymore. A single tear began to escape his eyes. Taking his Friend Ball out, he recalled his frozen friend. This was meant to be Togetic's first gym battle and this is what happened. Of course, he knew that it wasn't going to be easy but other than a couple blows, he really didn't do anything.

"You made a mistake by picking your Togetic for this battle, while I can tell you share a strong bond, you can't let that blind your judgement in battle," Pryce's voice echoed across the field, "while I am yet to see how this battle will end, I know the Blackthorn gym leader has something special planned for the winner of the Orange league when they challenge her so know this, such trivial mistakes will result in your defeat there."

Unable to take it anymore, Ash's bottom lip quivered as he tried to focus on the battle at hand. His hand trembled as it fumbled over his selection of Pokeballs attached rattling to his belt. At least his last Pokémon is Sandslash, he shouldn't need much help if any for this battle and honestly, after what Weavile did to Togetic, he doesn't care now if his ground type hurt Weavile. He may not be protective of Togetic like Ash or Pikachu or even Houndoom but that doesn't mean he won't, even if unknowingly, avenge him.

"Go Sandslash!" Ash shouted.

Peering through his pain, Ash saw his ground type appear in front of him. Quickly drying his eyes, Ash watched as his ground type appeared and began growling threateningly at his opponent. Weavile, however, wasn't intimidated. Instead it smirked at the ground type and began to taunt his ground type by inviting him to attack by curling his claws towards itself.

"A Sandslash?" Pryce questioned, "while the look in its eye shows a hardened battler, I thought you would've learnt your lesson about picking the right Pokémon for the battle at hand. I highly doubt it will be strong enough to handle both my Weavile and Mamoswine back to back."

Sandslash growled.

"Hmm, he seems, angry," Pryce uttered.

"Yeah, about that," Ash chuckled nervously, "ya see, he recently battled another Weavile and it... didn't end well. Just be careful because he has a history with losing control and I don't him to hurt your reveal."

"I appreciate the warning but believe me, Weavile can more than handle himself," Pryce replied, "you have nothing to worry about on that end."

"Weavile verses Sandslash," Shelia declared, "let the battle begin!"


Pryce verses Ash: (round six)

Sandslash curled up into a ball and sped across the field. Extending the spikes on his back, they kept him from sliding around on the icy tundra he found himself on. Using a sort of echo-location by sending seismic waves through the ground the first thing he realised was that this field isn't frozen all the way through.

Next he noticed was Weavile wasn't moving.

Before he could guess why, something hard hit his side. Knocked to the side, he uncurled himself before digging his claw into the ground, using it to bring him to a stop and spin around to face his opponent in one swift movement.

Weavile was up in his face, its large sharp claw slashing down across his face.

Another one came down quickly after it, but he was able to raise his free claw to block it as he pulled his other claw out of the ice.

In one quick slash, he swiped the now free claw in front of him. Weavile jumped back by a step but didn't make off.

Feeling the anger build up, Sandslash growled before launching a barrage of Poison Stings out of his mouth. They quick shot across the field but Weavile finally got moving and avoided them before circling around.

Using his hardened stare, he followed the dark ice type as it went in for an attack from the side.

A frozen fist came flying towards him, but he ducked at the last second, sending it flying over his head. Weavile continued over his head and in one quick action he clenched his claw over the sharp claw Pokémon's arm before lifting his head back up and sending his opponent crashing into an ice pillar.

Not giving him chance to get up, Sandslash curled back into a ball and shot forward. Smashing into his opponent, he forced him through the ice pillar.

Coming to a stop the other side, Sandslash hissed as to encourage his opponent to get up. He watched as the dark ice type did so. He stood off to the side before extending his glowing claws outward. So he wants a one on one claw battle? So be it.

Extending his own claws which began to glow, Weavile made the first move and charged in.

Holding his own claws above his head in an x shape, they took the first blow before he was knocked back as Weavile's second claw jabbed his stomach.

Seeing the sharp claw Pokémon go after him for a continuation, he was able to deflect the first claw, now only using one of his own claws.

He tried to take the lead by slashing down one of his claws but Weavile avoided it before having his claw follow it, ensuring it wouldn't be deflected and slashing him on the face.

Jumping back, Weavile took a deep breath before unleashing a powerful blizzard.

Stabbing his claw down into the ground, Sandslash braced himself for the powerful force.

"Sandslash!" he heard Ash call out, "you tougher skin means Weavile couldn't out last you in a claw to claw only battle. That's why he's switched it up!"

"No shit, Sherlock," Sandslash growled to himself.

Coating his claws in metal, Sandslash began reaching forward and stabbing them into the ice before dragging himself closer towards his opponent. It went by a lot quicker than one might expect and once close enough, he swiped at one of Weavile's legs.

The sharp claw Pokémon was knocked sideways as Sandslash straddled his body. Unable to hold it in any longer, he began bashing his claws down on the opponent beneath with as much force as possible. The movement heating up his body and losing his muscles from the cold blizzard he was just exposed to.

A few times, Weavile tried to block the blows but it was useless.

Not keeping count or really caring, Sandslash continued to slash down as a red mist surrounded him, everything else fading into darkness.

"Sandslash stop!" Ash's voice echoed in his head.

Blinking, he looked down at the bloody mess of Weavile beneath him. A weird numb-tingling covering his body, he took some steps back as the realisation of what he just did became clear. Even after learning of his past, he still had

"Weavile is unable to battle," Shelia announced, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Sandslash."


Sandslash took a deep breath as his last opponent disappeared into a red light. That was a nice warm up for the ground type. He wanted to rip that Weavile from limb to limb, but he had to remind himself about how it wasn't Silver's one.

"I'm impressed, boy, your Sandslash showed both strength and skill in his movements and it's not often one can out do my Weavile in claw to claw combat," the old man called out, "but I am sure you know whose next and that regardless of the end result, this next one will be our battle."

"Wait, aren't you mad about what he did to Weavile?" Ash asked.

"Look kid, you gave us a fair warning and honestly, Weavile likes taking a good beating. It's motivation to get stronger," Pryce replied, "either way, we won't be punishing you for it or calling the battle. A trip to Nurse Joy and Weavile will be as good as new."

"Alright," Ash replied.

"Well old friend, it's you and me," Pryce uttered before holding his Pokeball out, "go Mamoswine!"

In a flash of light, a large brown Pokémon appeared, and the ground shook slightly upon its impact. Sandslash remembered being warned about this beast but looking at it now, he really isn't sure why. Its big, for sure but its expression doesn't show that of a hardened battler or anything. A quick glance back at his trainer, Sandslash saw him with his Pokedex out, and he could barely pick up what it was saying:

Mamoswine, The Twin Tusk Pokémon. The final evolved form of Swinub. A frozen Mamoswine was dug from ice dating back 10,000 years. This Pokémon has been around a long, long, long time. It is believed to travel long distances in even the toughest of blizzards.

Well that's useless, why not tell him what it likes for lunch? That's as helpful for fighting this beast as that useless blabble that the device gave. Not that it matters, Sandslash only needs to rely on one person to bring down this beast. Well, maybe his trainer could help out too but in the end, its him fighting and he never needed a lot of information for his opponents in the past.

Scrapping his claws together, he shook his head before growling threateningly. Narrowing his eyes which locked onto the brown beast, he saw his opponent crouch low although it was difficult to make out due to its size and narrowed its eyes.

"Mamoswine verses Sandslash," the women announced, "the winner of this round


Pryce verses Ash: (round seven)

Sandslash took a final deep breath. Why was this happening? He knew about his past now; it's not hidden so why did he lose control again? Was it something in the heat of the moment, his past experience with that particular species? Is he just meant to be nothing more than a hate filled rage monster that destroys all in his way. A quick glance down before locking eyes back on his opponent made Sandslash realise there is only one way to know for sure.

The brown beast formed an ice ball between his tusks before launching it towards him.

Extending his claws which began to glow as well, he swiped one down and cut the incoming projectile in half. Each side flying past him. Not waiting for them to crash or come to a stop, Sandslash jumped before curling up into a ball and he rolled forward, again using his back spikes to help remain on course due to the slippery floor.

Although he didn't aim for his opponent, far from it.

"Huh?" he heard a voice confusing utter; he didn't know or care who it belonged to.

Turning, he felt him slide of course due to the change of momentum, but it wasn't long before he was somewhere back on course, completing the circumference of the field before repeating it.

"Mamoswine... we need to stop him now," that was obviously the gym leader, could he have figured out the plan already?

The ground began to shake before a massive change of momentum happened. The darkness from being curled up helped stopped him from getting dizzy and as he uncurled himself, he found himself on his back, looking up at the ground ice type.

Opening his mouth, Sandslash launched a set of little purple stingers at him. They hit the opponents face and caused him to stumble backwards.

Using this moment, Sandslash rolled over before scurrying across the icefield. Once underneath the brown beast, he rolled back onto his back before using the spikes to launch himself and clutching onto the brown beasts stomach. He moved as quickly as he could, working his way over to his back.

Mamoswine attempted to shaking him off but to no-avail.

Once secure on top of the brown beast, stood on all fours with his claws clenched around stuffs of fur to hold on tight. Sandslash let out a mighty battle cry as he forced all his anger downwards.

The entire world began to shake in his anger... and he felt better.

Next thing he knew, however, they were falling before coming to a sudden stop. A familiar toxin landing on his skin as he was thrown forward. On instinct he began to shake his arms around and call out for help but only water filled his mouth.

Attempting to open his eyes and all he could see was blurs.

As if by fate, his claw finally latched onto something and using the last of his depleted strength, he was able to pull himself back onto the frozen field. His throat became painfully-raw as he coughed up all the water that entered his body.

Blinking, he was able to turn the blurred world mostly back to normal, but his lack of oxygen made focusing on anything very difficult. He shook his head as he looked around, the first thing he noticed was that ref looking down on him.

Swinging his head to the side, he found the brown beast still in the water and struggling. Deep breaths entered his body and it meant he could now see the leader stood behind the brown beast.

"There's no way for Mamoswine to escape this," Pryce admitted, holding up a Pokeball, "return."

In a red flash, the brown beast disappeared.

"Mamoswine has been deemed unable to continue by his trainer," a voice declared, "making the winners Ash and Sandslash. He also won the entire battle and shall receive a Glacier badge as a result."

He felt a familiar tingle around him as a red light engulfed himself.


Ash's heart thumbed against his chest. His hand gripping the Pokeball which contains his recently recalled Sandslash. He wished he could tell him good job or something similar, but he couldn't even contemplate what just happened in that battle. Out of everything his ground type could've done, he never would've expected him to do that. He has always hated water after so why would he deliberately make himself and Mamoswine go for a swim.

Using his hand to wipe his forehead of the cold sweat formed there, Ash noticed Pryce making his way around the destroyed battlefield. Shaking his head, he tried to get rid of the thoughts of what would've happened if that went wrong. Especially so soon after the lake of rage. Ash cautiously made his way of the trainers box and met the gym leader close by.

"Boy," Pryce greeted him, "I wasn't entirely convinced by the team you brought today. At the very least, I believe you would've been better swapping out your Togetic for a fire type of some sort but in the end, it proved pointless. As proof of your victory here today, I present you with a Glacier badge."

He held out his hand and a hexagon shaped badge rested on his palm. It was a basic design, of nothing more than a snowflake of a light blue colour and a plain white background. For an ice type gym, it was probably the most standard design one could think off for a badge.

"Thank you," he replied, gently picking up the badge. Holding it up, he looked at it, but he couldn't feel the same familiar rush of excitement like every other badge he won over his journey. The battle was a nice distraction from the pain of losing Gyarados but that doesn't mean it's gone. Not to mention, he now has to worry about Sandslash and why he decided to almost drown himself when battling Mamoswine.

Not spending too much time looking at the little item, he pulled out his badge case and flipped it open before placing it in the next available open slot. While he briefly looked to see he only needed to fill one more slot, he couldn't bring himself to get excited or even focus on it too much. He just as quickly closed it and put it away.

"So I presume you're going to challenge the Blackthorn gym next?" Pryce asked.

"Yes," Ash replied, "Serena also has a contest taking place there."

"Well then," Pryce turned his back and looked up, "I feel I should warn you, the leader there has been very excited about facing an Orange league winner. She has something special prepared for when you challenge her. You got lucky today with your choices, but I wouldn't take the risk with her. She has been approached multiple times by our regions champion for a position in his elite four, after all."

"She has?" Misty asked, as his friends appeared behind him, "why hasn't she taken it?"

"It's not because she isn't capable, far from it," Pryce replied, "it's because she feels like her work is better suited as gym leader. Plus, she'd hate to look like she was just copying her cousins career. Even if she'd never admit that last point."

"So what sort of challenge does she have planned?" Serena asked.

"I don't know, she likes to keep her cards close to herself when it comes to details, but I could make an educated guess," Pryce replied, "look. I'm not meant to be telling you any of this, but I am because of what you did for Mamoswine and myself. I want to see you win the Silver conference this year, you have the capability as long as you pick the right Pokémon for the battles ahead. I can't think of someone who deserves it more, not to say you're the strongest in pure strength. Just... you have a strong heart to win."

Ash couldn't really say anything in response. If he didn't know any better, he would say that this wasn't the same man he first met the day before who told him off for how he was friends with his Pokémon. It was very heart-warming to hear he had a new support for the league but with his mind focused on talking with his Sandslash and the thoughts of his lost friend from the lake creeping at the back of his head, he just couldn't put his feelings into words.

After bidding goodbye to both Pryce and Shelia, Ash swirled Sandslash's Pokeball around in his hand. When they get to the Pokémon centre, he'll need to talk to the ground type. He'll also like to make some team rotations so he can get ready for the next gym battle.


Ash sighed; he was stood off in the corner of the Pokémon centre by himself. A Pokeball loosely gripped between his fingers and his head running in several different directions at once. He already sent Heracross, Croconaw and Togetic to see Nurse Joy and plans on a swap around once they are given the all clear. It might seem weird he didn't also send Sandslash for a check-up, but Professor Oak does one on everyone when they arrive at the lab and he plans on making some rotations soon. Not to mention, Sandslash isn't fond of Nurse Joy. It's nothing personal, he just likes his personal space and to do her job properly, Nurse Joy has to invade it.

Well, he can't keep putting this off, he'll need to do this now before his friends come looking for him. Taking a deep breath, he held the small device before a red light shot out, revealing Sandslash. The ground type stood next to a wall, still shaking while faced away. Unable to think of anything else, Ash kneeled down.

"Sandslash," he spoke, tentatively reaching his hand out but stopping just before touching the damp scales on his ground types back, "look at me... please."

Biting his lower lip, Ash could only watch with tension coursing through his veins. Right now he wished that they could just celebrate the victory, but his ground type just had to pull that honestly stupid move on his part. Eventually, Sandslash turned around and had his head down, eyes shut tight, as Ash could see every controlled breath enter and exit his body.

"Why did you do that?" Ash asked, "back at the gym?"

"I needed to know," Sandslash growled.

"Know what?" Ash asked.

"Know if this, this thing in me, if it's gone," Sandslash replied.

"What thing?" Ash asked.

"The anger," Sandslash growled, slamming his claw down into the ground. He took another deep breath as the scowl over his eyes weakened. He blinked as a couple tears escaped down his cheeks, "I want the anger to be gone."

"You've made great progress in overcoming your anger," Ash replied, "it just takes-"

"Time!" Sandslash yelled, his eyes bursting open and his claw swiping out in front of him. Ash was knocked of balance as his instincts took over and he thought that he might've even got cut again. He landed on his behind before looking at his ground type, who was holding himself up by his claw. His eyes were tightly shut but were failing miserably at holding in his tears, "I am sick of waiting. I already know about my past now. Why isn't it gone?"

"I..." Ash tried to find the right words, "don't know. I'm sorry but I don't. I will continue to help you try and figure it out, but I don't have the answers you want."

Ash honestly felt terrible as he felt tears sting his own eyes. Part of him was tempted to lean forward and embrace the suffering ground type but he knew that wouldn't be what his friend would want. Before he could even consider another course of action, a familiar chime echoed around them.

"Calling Ash Ketchum to the front desk, his Pokémon are back from their check-up," Nurse Joy's voice echoed through the P.A. system.

"I'm sorry Sandslash, I've got to get the others, but I won't rotate you, not now," Ash replied, "I'll just-"

"Don't," Sandslash cut him off, "you've got your own issues to work with and also the Blackthorn gym battle to deal with. I want to go back, to get this straight in my head and I don't want to slow you down at the same time."

"If you're sure," Ash trailed off.

"Just do me a favour," Sandslash requested.

"Anything, just name it?" Ash replied.

"Take the princess with you, I can't deal with her snark right now and that next gym is meant to be dragon type, so you've got that reason to call on her," Sandslash replied.

"Sure Sandslash, I bet she'd like the chance to face the gym anyway," Ash replied, "honestly, I've been thinking, and I might go with more than just the one of the old gang for the next gym. Everyone has spoken about how strong of an opponent the leader is and I'm not sure if my Johto team can handle it. Other than Togetic, none of them even have a great type advantage."

The ground type nodded before disappearing back into his Pokeball.


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