Welcome back everyone. Last time Ash and everyone managed to begin their short vacation. Of course, things haven't been the smoothest for Ash. Though with the GS ball now with him, things will only be harder for him.

Ch 22: A Defeat

The boat was deserted once more as Ash and Corey boarded back onto the vessel, the only sign of life being the voice that rang over the speaker system. Ash and Corey strolled towards one of the couches as the Pallet Town native removed his hat. The air conditioning rolled over Ash's body as he cooled down, his suspicion from today causing him to feel exhausted. His eyes fluttered between open and closed as he stared out the window.

"Take a nap if you want," Corey stated as the boy stood up. He motioned for Ash to lay down across the couch as the younger student held no qualms against the idea. Doing so, Ash felt his head plant softly against the couch as his eyes started to feel heavy. He wavered between sleep and consciousness until finally drifting off to sleep.

The young boy could hear Corey's footsteps as his mind emptied. A dark and blank image floated within his mind as it suddenly burst into flames, his own body unaffected by it as he stood before it. He reached out for the fire, his hand passing through it with no pain at all as a voice echoed out.

"What?" he asked, his feet moving closer towards the fire. He wondered if perhaps he could hear the voice better if he approached the flames, but it was just as muffled as before. He tried to listen harder, but the voice was inaudible regardless of what he tried. Though the flames vanished as a green tinge filled his dream, his body feeling relaxed as he watched things seemingly change.

Gone was the blank landscape and in its place now stood a forest as Ash wandered around it. The trees towered above him as they blocked out most of the sunlight, the boy finally stumbling upon a shrine of sorts as he heard the voice once more. Ash failed to make out the words once more as a banging sound emerged from the shrine. He wondered if perhaps someone had been locked behind it, but when he opened the door there was only an egg.

"Why's an egg here?" the boy wondered as he reached for it. The egg felt familiar as the boy held it within his hands, the voice emerging once more in an inaudible format. Ash wanted to ask the voice just what was going on, but a bump startled him.

Jumping from the couch, Ash found himself awake as Corey turned away from the window. His hat fell to the ground as a cold sweat ran down his neck, the boy pissed at having woken up before finding any answers about his dream. Picking his hat up, Ash joined Corey at the window as Pummelo was now visible in the distance. A few other ships could be seen, but they appeared to be moving slower as their boat passed by them with ease.

"Tonight's supposed to be the barbecue. I can't wait to dig in," Corey stated as he rubbed his hands together. Ash nodded in agreement, his hand wiping away a bit of drool. "And then in a couple days there's a big announcement being made at the stadium, we should definitely check it out."

"There is?" Ash asked, Pikachu climbing atop his shoulder now as the boat slowly approached the port. "What's it about?"

"If I told you it would ruin the surprise," Corey replied as he stretched slightly. His body cracked from the movement as Ash walked over towards his backpack. With a simple motion he swung it over his shoulders as the boat came to a complete stop.

"Besides, it'll be better if you find out when they announce it."

"Fine. Whatever," Ash replied in annoyance, his cheeks puffed out slightly as the action caused Corey to laugh. Ash merely ignored the older boy as he walked off the vessel, the smell of the ocean entering his nostrils once more. His ears immediately picked up the sound of other students as they exited their own vessels.

Corey however paid no attention to the other students as he instead dragged Ash towards the shuttle. The boy fought to break free from the older student, but his grip was too strong for Ash as he was dragged up onto the vehicle. Being planted into a seat, Ash glared at Corey for a moment until he saw Thad walk onto the shuttle.

"How'd he..."

"Beats me. I never saw him on our boat once," Corey responded. The older boy sat down next to Ash, taking the aisle seat as Thad passed by them. The boy stared at the duo for a moment only to be pushed forward by another student, his eyes glaring at the girl as he continued onwards. For some reason she seemed familiar to Ash, but before he could figure out from where, the girl passed by them. Her blonde hair bounced around for a moment as Ash watched her sit down next to Thad, the boy wondering if she knew just whom she sat next to.

The vehicle moved forward slightly, its wheels rubbing against the paved road as it pulled out of the port. With one final look Ash watched the boats vanish from his sight as the port was replaced by countless trees and a few houses. The ride was silent as the tension was palpable, Corey constantly looking back at Thad.

"Pipi?" Pikachu asked as he pointed towards Corey. Ash merely shrugged his shoulders in confusion as a view of the hotel entered his sight, a few students on the road as they passed by them. He thought back to Pikachu's question, hoping that the older boy wasn't too worried over nothing. Yes, Thad was strange and a creep, but it wasn't like he had ever tried anything.

The vehicle started to turn back into the hotel, Ash noticing that a large barbecue pit was being built by the staff as a bonfire started to burn. A handful of students were gathered around it as music started to blare outwards, the shuttle slowly being unloaded as the students aboard it exited.

Eventually Ash felt his feet step off the shuttle as they planted against the blacktop, his arms stretching behind him. His eyes darted around the parking lot as Corey waved the boy over, Ash following him as they entered back into the hotel. Without a single word spoken between them, the two boys began to their ascension up the stairs and towards Ash's room.

"Grab your belongings and throw them in my room," the older boy stated. Ash nodded at that as their climb came to an end. A few students were present in the hallway, but Ash didn't recognize a single one. Instead Ash made his way towards his room, the door surprisingly unlocked as it swung open with a single touch.

"Hello?" Ash asked, his voice falling on an empty room as it appeared torn apart. One of their mattresses was thrown across the room as it leaned against the window. Ash noticed how some of his clothes had been tossed about as his jacket sat atop a lamp. "Anyone in there?"

"Something wrong?" Corey asked as he peered into the room. Ash took a few steps inward as he scooped his jacket up. Pikachu also helped as he grabbed a pair of socks, throwing them towards Ash. Throwing it all into his backpack Ash made his way towards the rest of his clothes.

"I honestly don't know," Ash answered as he grabbed a few more pieces of his clothing. The drawer for the end table next to his clothes appeared busted as it hung open, a few splinters resting on the ground. "But someone tore this place apart."

Corey hummed at this, the boy helping Ash with his clothes as they exited the room. Ash noted how the boy seemed to be in a hurry to leave, though said nothing as Pikachu jumped atop his shoulder. The duo moved without a word as they eventually arrived at Corey's room, the boy opening it with his keycard.

The sound of snoring entered their eardrums immediately as they walked in on Fergus spread across one of the beds, droll falling from his face as it pooled atop his pillow. Corey merely snickered at the sight, Ash also fighting back a laugh as the boy dropped his belongings in a corner.

"I'll talk with someone from the hotel to see if they can get a cot in here. It isn't as comfortable as a bed, but you can't be staying in that room." Corey then started to move some of the furniture, his action ensuring that there would be enough space to place a cot within the room. "Why don't you go enjoy things for now? Dinner will be in a few hours so we'll meet up then, just stay away from Thad."

"Sure," Ash replied as he adjusted his backpack. He felt the GS ball rolling within as it smashed against the back of his backpack. The action reminded him of the strange pokeball as he wondered just what it could be from. Why was it so important?

Saying his goodbyes, Ash walked out of the room as the door accidently slammed behind him. The action waking Fergus as he heard the boy jump in surprise from behind the large door. He paused for a moment as he heard laughter erupt from within the room, the boy wondering what had transpired only to shrug his shoulders.

"Let's try out that battlefield we saw earlier, Pikachu," Ash mentioned, Pikachu nodding in agreement as they raced down the stairs. Back in the lobby Ash continued his breakneck pace as they rushed right by Ritchie, the boy calling out for them as Ash ignored his words once more.

As he passed through the front doors a ray of sunshine enveloped his body. Both Pikachu and himself enveloped the rays as they stretched once more, the duo ready to finally enjoy their vacation. Moving towards the backside of the hotel they passed by several activities that held no interest for them until finally they made it to the beach. It seemed as if a battle was in its finishing stages as a Staryu slammed itself against a Pidgeotto, the former spinning back into the ocean as the platforms their trainers stood on rocked from the created waves.

"Pidgeotto, shake it off and use Gust on the water!" a boy cried out. Ash watched on in awe as the Pidgeotto flapped its wings wildly, the impact of it against the water causing a cyclone to form. A waterspout was now present as Ash could make out the Staryu that spun within it with ease. In fact, to Ash, it looked like Staryu was unharmed as it emerged from the waterspout with an increased amount of speed.

"Double-Edge!" a familiar voice cried out. Ash turned his head to the other platform, Misty standing there confidently as her hands rested upon her hips. Staryu cried out as its body smashed against Pidgeotto, the impact sending the Normal and Flying-Type hurtling towards the ocean.

Unable to stop its descent, Pidgeotto slammed into the water as its body submerged underneath the waves. Staryu was on the move however, lifting the Bird Pokémon from the rough waters and onto its trainer's platform.

"Looks like that's twenty-two straight victories for me," Misty stated as the boy recalled his Pidgeotto. Ash watched on as the two trainers traded a few words, though he failed to make them out as the boy returned to the beach by way of a jet ski.

"That Misty is something else," the boy muttered as he held his pokeball. A few other students gathered around him as the group talked about his match, Ash noting that they seemed unsurprised at how well his opponent handled the terrain. Ash could feel his excitement rising, his hands shaking for a moment as he noticed no one else planned to battle next.

Getting on the jet ski, Ash rode it over to the vacated platform and jumped onto it. The ocean caused him to lose his balance at first, Ash struggling to stand as the waves rocked his platform around. His appearance seemed to have attracted Misty's attention as the girl recalled Staryu into its pokeball.

"So, you're my next challenger?"

"Sure am! But how does this work? There's not even a platform for the Pokémon to battle on," Ash asked, his question causing the girl to lose her balance for the first time since he arrived. She seemed visibly annoyed by it, though Ash just stood there chuckling. For the first time since he saw this area, he noticed that there were no platforms in the field for Pokémon to stand atop.

"You're joking, right?" Misty asked, one hand placed atop her forehead as the other held a bag. Ash shook his head to affirm he had no clue what was going on. Misty sighed at that action, the girl shaking her head before dropping her bag. A pokeball rested within her hand as it rolled among her fingers. "It's an ocean battle so there's no platforms. The entire ocean and sky is our battlefield this time, so only Pokémon who have the ability to swim or fly can be used."

"Well that's a bit restrictive," Ash muttered. Pikachu snapped his fingers in agreement, the Electric-Type now unable to take part in the battle as he sat next to Ash. The Pallet Town native thought about how his options were limited now, his only choices being Squirtle and Fearow. Though as Misty tossed out a Pokeball to reveal a large sea creature, Ash decided to keep the match in the sea.

"Squirtle, I choose you!" the boy cried out as the capture device exploded outwards. A bright light shinned across the water for a moment as Squirtle's head bobbed atop the waves. The Water-Type appeared to enjoy the ocean water as he shot a small Water Gun up into the air before resting on his shell.

"This isn't even fair," Misty muttered as her creature roared out. The action gained Squirtle's attention as the Water-Type turned onto his stomach, eyes glaring at the beast. Not sure what it was, Ash pulled out his pokedex as he scanned the rather large beast.

"Gyarados, the Atrocious Pokémon and the evolved form of Magikarp. Gyarados is a Water and Flying-Type Pokémon. This Pokémon has a vicious temperament, so use extreme caution. Its fangs can crush stones and its scales are harder than steel."

Ash's eyes grew in amazement at such a challenge, he knew this would be a great training opportunity as he pointed forward.

"Squirtle start things off with a Water Gun!"

"Squirtle!" the Water-Type cried out, a stream of water emerging from his mouth. It moved with an increased amount of speed, Ash able to tell their training had been paying off. Though a yawn from Misty made him worry.

"That's your best shot? Gyarados, blow it away with Hydro Pump."

The Water and Flying-Type roared out in agreement, his head whipping around for a moment as a torrent of water built up within. His maw appeared flooded as water streamed out, the attack immediately taking shape as a geyser of water shot straight for Squirtle. The attack devoured Squirtle's Water Gun as Ash quickly called for his partner to dive under the water to dodge.

Squirtle did as he was instructed, diving quickly as the Hydro Pump barely missed its mark. However, upon impact with the ocean it caused waves to rock the platforms, Ash losing his balance as he fell onto his behind. Ash stood immediately, but in that moment of getting to his feet Misty was already on the offensive.

"Follow it. Dragon Tail from under the water."

Gyarados dove under, his entire body splashing as it jumped into the air before being submerged. The action caused it to appear like it was raining as the splashed ocean water returned to which it came from. Ash tried to look for Squirtle, but the water was too dark to make him out, though he managed to see a green glow within moments.

"Withdraw! Quick!"

The command appeared to be useless as he watched the green glow swing upwards, a shell entering his sight as Squirtle emerged from the water and became airborne. Gyarados followed shortly after as the Atrocious Pokémon roared in delight. He heard Misty call for a Hyper Beam as the orange glow appeared within Gyarados' jaws.

Ash bit at his lower lip, Squirtle practicality defenseless as the powerful beam rocketed right for him. Snapping his fingers, Ash thought of the only idea that could at least weaken the attack.

"Rapid Spin! Try to deflect it, Squirtle!" Ash wondered if it would work in a similar manner to how Gary could pull it off, but in that moment all he hoped was that it would at least weaken the blast. Squirtle began to spin his entire body as the momentum picked up, the Hyper Beam colliding as Squirtle cried out in pain.

However, just as he hoped, the majority had been redirected towards the ocean as waves rocked the area. Gyarados was pushed around by it as the beast had to recharge from such an attack. Ash saw his opening.

"Skull Bash and into Water Gun!"

Squirtle remained silent as his body reemerged from his shell. His head shinned bright as the sun seemingly reflected off of it, his body now a rocket as it lodged itself into Gyarados' midsection. The Water and Flying-Type roared out in pain, its tail thrashing around as Squirtle avoided it thanks to the Water Gun. The attack had been less to inflict damage and more to create separation between the two.

The Water-Type performed a backflip in midair before his body splashed back into the ocean. However, he had no time to rest as Gyarados' glowing tail smashed into him. The impact submerged Squirtle as the Tiny Turtle Pokémon quickly exited Ash's view.

"I wasn't expecting a combination like that," Misty stated as she eyed Ash. The boy felt uneasy as she stared him down, the power behind her eyes making him step backwards on the platform. The splash of the waves reminded him that there was nowhere else he could go. "Guess you're a somewhat decent beginner. Though you'll need more than a few tricks to beat me."

Ash growled slightly at that, the water stirring wildly as Squirtle reemerged from the depths of the ocean. In the air once more, he noticed something different, his head shinning from the sun as it reflected the sunlight. To his amazement it seemed to blind Gyarados as they attacked once more.

"Water Gun! But attack away from Gyarados!"

"What are you trying?" Misty asked, but she had difficulties seeing as well. The sun continued to shine off of Squirtle's head as he launched himself at Gyarados. Twisting his body, the Water-Type picked up momentum until his body slammed right into Gyarados' forehead, the attack turning into a Rapid Spin as he rode down Gyarados' back.

Squirtle shot up into the air, his body bouncing off of Gyarados before his limbs shot out of his shell. Now able to move Gyarados roared out, Misty commanding a Hydro Pump. Ash countered quickly, calling for a Water Gun as the two streams of water struck each other.

"Hang in there, Squirtle! Rapid Spin!"

Squirtle nodded as his own stream ended, his body going into a rotation as he struggled to control the flow of water from Gyarados. The water cascaded into his shell, the impact launching him higher into the air as only a fraction of the geyser was dispersed.

"Squirt," the Water-Type muttered over the intense pressure, his spinning coming to an end as his body was enveloped in the attack. The liquid appeared to shine for a moment, but Squirtle was easily overpowered. The Tiny Turtle Pokémon flew down into the water as waves splashed around from the impact.

Ash held his breath as he waited for his partner to reemerge, but instead nothing occurred. Instead minutes passed as Ash waited for Squirtle, his worry growing with each passing second. Throwing his shirt off, Ash prepared to dive in as even Pikachu looked over the edge of the platform. His worried cries echoed outwards, but Ash had to restrain the Electric-Type from diving in himself.

"Call the match and I'll have Gyarados go get him," Misty replied as she looked at the water. The ocean became calm now as the waves died down, the boy struggling to see any sign of his Pokémon.

"No way. I know he can keep going," Ash stated as the water seemed to brighten. To his confusion a beacon of light shot upwards as the water near him moved in different directions. Waves raged around them as Ash fell back onto his platform, the light from before now above them as a shell started its descent back towards the ocean.

Limbs shot outwards as what usually looked like Squirtle appeared different to Ash. The arms and legs were a different color now, almost a shade of purple compared to the usual blue while his tail was more curved and wavier. It gave off the look of an ocean wave as the head finally emerged.

Ash found a smile plastered onto his face as Squirtle's head emerged from his shell, revealing a completely different face as two furry ears were now present along with two sharp teeth.

"He evolved..." Ash muttered, a few of the spectators surprised by this as he watched Wartortle land amongst the water. Even Misty seemed surprised by this as she smirked slightly, Gyarados splashing his tail in amusement. Pulling his pokedex out, Ash scanned the newly evolved Pokémon.

"Wartortle, the Turtle Pokémon and the evolved form of Squirtle. Using its furry ears and tail as rubbers and balancing rods, it can maintain balance while swimming at high speeds. Older Wartortle may have scars and algae growing on its shell."

Closing the pokedex, Ash shoved it back within his pocket as Wartortle took off for Gyarados. His speed had increased, Ash noting it as the Turtle Pokémon avoided a Hydro Pump with ease before reaching Gyarados.

"Skull Bash, go!"

Wartortle wasted no time, his head shinning, as he jumped from the ocean. Waves splashed about slightly as his body ricocheted into Gyarados only to slightly push the Atrocious Pokémon backwards. The Turtle Pokémon bounced off of the Water and Flying-Type, his shell spinning in midair as he quickly righted himself. Gyarados seemed unfazed by it, its tail glowing green for a moment as it smacked the now airborne Wartortle out of the sky. His body smashed into the ocean as the waves continued to rock back and forth, Gyarados roaring loudly.

"No more playing around!" Misty cried out. Ash balled his hands as he watched monstrous waves rise up and crash back down into the ocean. Gyarados' eyes appeared to scan the ocean while Ash noticed its tail spin furiously.

"Gyarados, Whirlpool!"

To Ash's surprise the water's current changed mightily as the two platforms began to circle around Gyarados. Ash found himself unable to stand now as he grasped against the edge of his own platform. Though down in the water he could faintly see Wartortle fight against the current, his body tossed by the powerful water until he was finally sucked into it. The cyclone continued to increase in strength until it sat atop the water, the monstrous current remaining as it held form.

"Tortle," the Water-Type cried out as he spun around. Both himself and Ash unable to do anything. And yet Misty seemed just fine, the girl standing her own platform circled around the field. An annoying laughter escaped her mouth, Ash glaring at what sounded like patronizing from the girl.

"You might be strong on land, but the water is my specialty. Gyarados, Hyper Beam!"

The Water and Flying-Type wasted no time as the familiar orange glow formed within its maw, the Whirlpool losing strength for just a single second as Wartortle tried to escape. However, it proved futile as the destructive attack was launched, the ocean torn apart as the Hyper Beam raced forward. Crashing against the remnants of the Whirlpool, the two attacks exploded outwards as Wartortle was launched high into the sky.

Not a single sound was made as the Turtle Pokémon crashed against the rocky waters, his body floating back up slowly. His body turned over softly, his face revealing the fact he had been defeated.

"And that's another win," Misty muttered softly as she recalled Gyarados. She looked slightly bored now, her hands resting behind her back as Ash recalled Wartortle into his pokeball.

"Let's go once more!" Ash stated as he pulled Fearow's pokeball out. The device grew within his grasp as Misty looked slightly perplexed by his statement. "Now that I have an understanding of things, we'll win for sure."

"Seriously?" she asked while grabbing her small bag. Without any hesitation she swung it over her shoulder and pointed towards Ash. "You're Wartortle is exhausted and the first thing on your mind is a rematch. You would think your Pokémon's health was your top priority.

"Guess your school isn't so great after all. I mean, they let you in."

Ash grit his teeth at that statement, his anger rising only to have it paused by Pikachu. He wanted to yell back at that girl, to even the score with her but his partner tugged on his pants. Without a word spoken, Pikachu pointed towards the hotel as Ash threw his shirt back on. Even if he wanted a rematch, they were both right that Wartortle came first. As they rode back to the beach, Ash wondered for a moment just how many trainers were declined entrance to Pokémon Academy and just how many surprisingly tough trainers existed that he knew nothing about.

A couple days had passed by since his loss to Misty and yet Ash still hadn't got over it. Even the cookout that night failed to help raise his spirits as noted by Corey back then. He hadn't told the boy what had transpired, but he had a feeling Corey and the others knew.

The previous few days had become a routine for Ash as he woke up and had breakfast before beginning some early training with his Pokémon. While it was nothing more than light practice, it had allowed him to help Charmander work on fighting fast opponents. He would be tasked with trying to hit Fearow with his Flamethrower while Pikachu and Bulbasaur trained together. Wartortle however had been forced to sit out per Nurse Joy's orders.

After their training sessions ended, they would usually relax as yesterday they had spent the entire day at the resort's beach. Though Charmander and Bulbasaur refused to enter the water. But today was different as Ash remembered that Corey had something important that he wanted the boy to see.

"Alright, guys, let's wrap it up!" Ash called out as Charmander launched off one final Flamethrower. The attack just missed Fearow as the Normal and Flying-Type barrel rolled away from the flames. To Ash, Charmander's attacks had become much finer than before as the flames were more focused on a single location compared to a wide range attack.

Calling his Pokémon back into their pokeballs, Ash grabbed ahold of his backpack and threw it over his shoulders. The plan was to meet Corey at the stadium for some big announcement, though he had no clue what it could have been. Regardless, the boy bent over to pick Pikachu up as the Electric-Type scurried up his arm.

"Don't want to be late," he said to his best friend, the duo nodding before they headed off. As he walked out of the backside of the hotel the boy noticed a large group of students walking towards the city. He had never seen such a large group heading in at once as nearly four dozen students were amassed together.

As he continued on, he passed by the group without a second thought as the sight of Jimmy entered his peripheral vision. Though he decided against stopping and instead continued forward as the sound of shoes slapping against the parking lot pavement entered his vicinity.

"Wait up, Ash!" Ritchie called out as Ash turned for a moment. He saw the boy racing towards him but ignored him as he picked up his pace slightly. Unfortunately, it only caused Ritchie to quicken his own pace as the boy quickly caught up to him. Slightly out of breath, Ritchie heaved for oxygen as he kept pace with Ash now.

"You must not have heard me," he huffed out between breaths. Ash noticed his legs shaking slightly but he didn't care. Truthfully he didn't want to talk to the boy just yet. Unfortunately for him it appeared Ritchie wasn't going anywhere.

"It's been so long since we last saw each other. I tried to find you earlier in the week, but you must have been elsewhere, though I saw you with Corey for a bit, so I didn't want to interrupt whatever you were doing."

Ash pulled at the straps of his backpack, Pikachu murmuring slightly as the Electric-Type looked at his best friend. A heavy sigh exited from Ash as the boy kicked a stone along the road, the sight of the town quickly approaching.

"So now you want to talk? I'm surprised you didn't just write a letter and run off with your new friends."

Ritchie's feet stopped moving with those words, Ash continuing forward as he bit at his lip. He knew that deep down he didn't hate Ritchie, but for the moment he just didn't want to deal with the boy. His own frustrations getting the better of him as he peeked at his friend.

"Is that why you're so upset?" Ritchie asked. His voice was barely audible as the words rode atop the breeze. Ash pulled his hat down over his eyes slightly as the boy followed after him. His feet slammed against the pavement, arms swinging wildly as he became even with the Pallet Town native.

"Because I left? Are you serious!?"

Ash didn't answer as the town was before them now, the two boys passing by a few vendors as Pikachu sniffed at the air. Ash felt a cool breeze pass by, but he figured it was just the wind as they turned towards the coliseum.

"If you're upset over me transferring, I'm sorry that people make decisions in their lives to help themselves instead of worrying about what their friends would think."

"I don't even care that you left!" Ash shouted out. Ritchie paused at those words, Ash now picking up the pace as he stomped past a few buildings. Some of the citizens eyed the two boys though Ash didn't care. A heavy breath escaped from his nostrils as all his pent-up emotions from Ritchie vanishing leaked out. "It's the fact you couldn't even tell me yourself. You know what I've been through with people leaving."

"You weren't even on campus when I left. At least I said something," the boy argued back. Ash shook his head at those words, a light chuckle echoing outwards for a moment as he faced Ritchie.

"Telephones exist."

"You could have called too!"

"I wasn't the one leaving his friends," Ash shot back. "Maybe you should just go hang out with your new friends."

"Really? Is this how you want to act?" Ritchie asked. Ash ignored the question as he continued the climb. He could hear noise coming from the coliseum before them, a large gathering of people stood before him as a news crew filmed the area.

"Hmph...I always figured you would be accepting of my choices," Ritchie muttered out. Ash paused at that, the boy's fist pounding against his leg. He didn't want to fight. He didn't want to cause any of this. And yet he found himself sticking his foot in his mouth each time he spoke.

"Guess I was wrong."

Ash turned around to face Ritchie, but the boy had vanished amidst the crowd. Ash bit his lower lip in frustration as he shrugged his shoulders; he figured that it would be best to apologize later to his friend. He hoped Ritchie would understand that Ash didn't truly mean that. And yet he found himself agreeing with his words.

"Stupid Ritchie," Ash muttered as he kicked a stone. He followed the stone concourse until finally seeing Corey, the boy leaning against a pillar. His eyes were half shut, Ash wondering just how little sleep he had gotten the night before. Though he appeared overly excited as the older boy waved him over.

"Hey! You made it, perfect," Corey stated in excitement. The boy wasted no time as he walked further down the concourse, Ash following him as the duo eventually came to a hallway. The older student pointed down it, Ash following him as they came to a large crowd. "Grab any seat you want, I'm sure this will really excite you."

"What is it?" Ash asked as he scratched at his cheek. A few cheers echoed around him as his eyes fell towards the center of the stadium, a surprised look now plastered on his face as he noticed a few of his teachers down there. Or rather a few from the previous semester as Agatha was nowhere to be seen. And yet there were others as Lance stood out amongst the group, the Champion appearing rather uncomfortable.

A tapping noise rang out, Pikachu crying as Ash covered the Electric-Type's ears. A voice quickly followed as the words "testing" rang out. The Pallet Town native chuckled to himself as a few students yelled out that it was working just fine. Though instead of joining in he quickly planted himself down in a nearby seat. Corey followed after him as a new voice called out.

"I'm sure many of you are curious of today's grand announcement. Especially since it's coming from the Orange Islands of all locations." Lance's voice boomed outwards as Ash could have sworn he heard a few nearby trainers swoon over him. Looking behind him, the boy managed to make out Jimmy once more as he sat there annoyed as Marina cried out for Lance. Though to the boy's left was someone with orange hair, Ash confused by the familiar hairstyle. His attention was pulled away however, Lance speaking once more.

"As you all know, the Orange Islands are still not considered part of the League proper due to their eccentric style of Gyms and the Orange League. However, we've managed to build a step closer towards a coexistence with an agreement to host a tournament right here in Pummelo Stadium."

"You just couldn't leave out that jab, Lance, could you?" a new voice asked. Ash watched as a man similar in height to Lance emerged, his black hair slicked back slightly as his arms were showcased in his sleeveless jacket. A few cries of "Drake" rang out, but Ash had no clue who the man was.

"But it's true. Despite our unorthodox style, we've partnered with the League and its School Committee to build a single tournament for the freshmen. While most students take part in a grand competition between the five distinct schools of Kanto to decide the best one, we here in the Orange Islands are unable to compete. As are the students of New Bark University."

"Which is where we came up with an idea for a tournament," Lance stated. Drake seemed surprised at the sudden interruption but the m an didn't allow it to throw him off his game. Lance cared little for the man as Ash watched Drake play with the pokeball that hung around his neck.

"There is a total of one hundred and fifty-three freshmen in the Battle course between the seven schools we plan to include. In exactly two months they will all arrive here to take part in a tournament to crown the strongest in the freshman class."

"It won't be much of a contest with my students competing," Drake stated. A very soft roar of approval cried out, Ash able to see the entire section of ten or so students cheering. A chuckle could be heard coming from Corey as the older boy shook his head. Ash had a feeling there was a reason the League refused to accept the Orange Islands as an official League for the time being. "Though there are stakes that will be explained when the time comes."

"You weren't supposed to mention that..." Lance muttered as he glared at Drake. The man apologetically smiled upon hearing that, his body already a few feet away from Lance as the Champion coughed. "Anyways...

"I'll be in attendance as well to watch our prospective future trainers showcase their skills. And the winner of the entire event will have the honor of facing me in a full battle. Until then I hope all participants train well to prepare for the tournament."

This announcement piqued the crowd's interest. Even Ash found himself on his feet now, Pikachu's cheeks sparking slightly as the duo wanted to face Lance. Ash's heart pounded for a moment as he wondered just how strong the man was, especially if he had taken the position of Champion after Blue stepped down.

"Now you understand?" Corey asked as he poked Ash slightly. The Pallet Town native nodded slowly, his body still facing the field as Lance stepped backwards. His cape swirled around slightly as Drake joined him as the duo retreated from the crowd's eyes. A few people remained on the field as more information was being explained, but truthfully Ash didn't care as he noticed Corey stand up.

"I wish they had something like this for my freshman year."

"Didn't you take part in the actual competition between the schools?"

"Well yeah," Corey answered. The older boy rubbed at the back of his head as a chuckle erupted from his stomach. Ash watched as the older boy's stomach bounced from the laughter, it becoming infectious as both Ash and Pikachu joined in on it. "But how about we get out of here. Surge already has all the important information."

"He knew?" Ash asked as he slid out of the row. It felt as if the entire time walking and then getting to their seats had been longer than the actual announcement, but it was worth it. Looking down at the field for a second, Ash watched as one of the teachers was in a battle of sorts with another teacher. Though it seemed more like a lecture than a battle as the duo talked over the different situations that could appear from a single attack.

"Why didn't he say anything?"

"He told me," Corey answered. Ash glared at that response, the older boy twirling his fingers slightly as a whistle played from his lips. "Alright, he wanted it to be a surprise. But I'll let him talk about it, he should be getting here soon."

With a yank of his head Corey pointed Ash down a hallway, the boy following as they came back out onto the concourse. Though now it was starting to disperse except for the news crew, one of their reporters trying to interview Corey only for the boy to walk past them. As they exited the stadium Ash noted the darkened sky to which he wondered if rain would be approaching any time soon.

"How about we take the long way around? There's a beautiful view of the island this way. Plus, there's a battlefield no one ever uses that we can train on," Corey offered. Ash didn't respond as the boy merely followed after Corey. The moment he had mentioned training had encapsulated Ash's attention.

The duo walked on in silence as they continued to scale past the coliseum until finally they reached the top of the mountain side. The entire island could be viewed now as Ash marked out not only the hotel but also the port and city to which he had visited several times. A roar of thunder echoed outwards though Corey seemed uninterested by it. Instead he began the descent down the other side of the mountain as Ash followed his path. A well-groomed battlefield could be seen further down as it was surrounded by a pool of water.

"Ow!" the older boy muttered as he gripped his forehead. Ash wondered what was up with the reaction as he tried to walk forward, his own body slamming against an invisible structure as he too clutched at his forehead.

"Pikapi?" Pikachu asked as his paws tapped against the invisible structure. The group of three were confused beyond belief, Ash pushing against it as the structure appeared to bend slightly only to launch Ash backwards. Corey murmured out at it, his hand tracing the invisible barrier like structure as he tried to figure it out.

"Guess we just turn back," he muttered, only for their path back to which they had came to also be in a similar situation. Corey felt his hands push against the invisible structure for a moment as his body bounced backwards. "Something isn't right."

"What is it?"

"I have no idea."

Their stupor ended immediately as a cackling laughter of "ohohoho" rang through the area. Ash rubbed at his temples for a moment as his eyes trained in on a figure standing opposite them in the field, his cloak blowing slightly as a mask covered his face. Something about the person appeared familiar to Ash as he tried to recognize them, but between the cloak and mask they were unidentifiable.

"To surmise you Neanderthals to take the long path home was truly an act of my incredible knowledge," the man stated as a Hypno emerged next to him. The creature's eyes glowed blow as is pendulum swung back and forth. A gasp came from Corey's mouth as the boy immediately reached for a pokeball.

"So you trapped us here."

"My, my, my, the prodigious student can solve problems outside of battle. Unfortunately for you two this will be your last waking moments."

The man raced forward as a flash of light emerged from his cloak, a Gengar by his side as a barrage of Night Shade was fired at them. The single red beams were aimed right for Ash and Corey, the latter quick to call upon Scyther. The Bug and Flying-Type deflected the blasts with ease as Gengar continued to approach them, his fists now frozen as Ash shivered from their presence.

"Gar!" Gengar shouted, his tongue bouncing around as his two fists lodged themselves into Scyther. The impact knocked the Mantis Pokémon into the sky, his wings beating to stabilize his position before speeding for the Ghost and Poison-Type.

"If only you had permitted me to accomplish my mission with ease. Then perhaps I'd have allowed you to beg for your lives while struggling with your pain-stricken bodies. Instead you have to play the hero. How hideous.

"Gengar, Shadow Ball!"

"Scyther, Slash right through it and then go into Acrobatics!"

Gengar charged up the ghostly energy as the sphere took shape between his hands. The object continued to grow larger and larger as Ash watched the area around Gengar lose its life, its energy being pulled into the Shadow Ball before it was launched off. Scyther was undeterred however as his scythes glowed bright white for a moment. With a simple slice downwards he cut through the Shadow Ball with ease, the excess energy dispersing outwards while the two halves of the sphere crashed into the ground.

An explosion kicked off for a moment as Ash watched chunks of the ground scatter, two large craters now present as Scyther rammed himself into Gengar. The attack pushed the Ghost and Poison-Type before he threw Scyther from his body. The Mantis Pokémon swung his body around so that he could land properly before Corey, the older boy looking on in concern. Ash wondered for a moment just why they were being attacked, but before he could piece anything together the ground opened up.

"Ash get out of there!" Corey shouted. In that moment Gengar launched off a Night Shade, the single beam of energy penetrating Scyther's left wing as the Bug and Flying-Type cried out in pain. Scyther lowered himself onto a knee for a moment but quickly stood back up, Corey calling for a Swords Dance as he raced for Ash.

The masked man was faster however, intercepting Corey and tossing the older student to the ground. A sinister chuckle came from behind the mask as Ash could only watch his friend be kicked back towards Scyther. Ash tried to jump away from the now cracking ground but found himself unable to, a vine wrapped around his foot as he was pulled deeper inwards.

"Pika!" Pikachu shouted, a spark of electricity shot at the vine. The attack did nothing as Ash pulled at the attached tendril. His body started to fall within the crack, Pikachu trying his best to pull him back upwards only to lose his grip. Ash watched on, his voice calling for his best friend as the ground above him closed up.

Using his arms, Ash braced his body against the stones and roots that dug into his body. His shirt was ripped slightly as he was tossed above the ground once more, his body slamming down against the rocky ground as he cried in pain. Saliva flew from his mouth as Ash forced himself back onto his feet, a young girl standing opposite him as she twirled her blonde hair. She seemed similar to that girl he saw on the bus and he wondered if her appearance here meant Thad was nearby.

"It's been too long since our last encounter," the girl spoke as a Roselia stood next to her. Something about the creature caused the gears within Ash to start spinning, the boy remembering it from somewhere. "How have you been, my hero."

"Oh now I know who you are," Ash stated. He rubbed his rear end for a moment as he looked for Pikachu, the disappearance of his best friend meant he was back with Corey and that deranged man. "You're that Flamingo girl who was annoying. Man was I glad you didn't show up at Pokémon Academy this semester."

"It's Domino! How could you forget a name like that!" the girl shouted. Her foot slammed against the ground, her Roselia imitating her movements. Ash looked around his surroundings as an explosion occurred not too far from him, the sight of electricity meaning that it must have been Pikachu. "Though, I have a feeling you would rather deal with my schoolgirl persona instead."

A small tulip twirled around in her hands for a moment as the girl launched it at Ash. Ducking, the boy watched as it struck the ground behind him as an electrical current shot out. For a moment he clutched at his chest only to see a barrage of missiles be shot from Roselia's hands. The Pin Missile attack continued on as Ash struggled to avoid the entire attack, a few of them getting caught in his side.

"Fearow get me out of here," Ash cried out, holding his side for a moment before tossing the pokeball upwards. The Normal and Flying-Type emerged with a soft cry, his talons grabbing Ash as they went into the sky and out of range of the attack. "Thanks, now let's work on a counterattack!"

"Rowww!" Fearow cried out in agreement as he soared back towards the ground. With perfect precision he released Ash as the boy rolled across the ground, pouncing onto his feet as a new pokeball rested in his hand.

"Listen, I may not understand exactly what's going on. But if you try to hurt my friends I'm gonna have to stop you!" he shouted out as Roselia raised her hands once more. The red and blue petals glowed slightly as they danced about, the objects shooting off as thousands of leaves. Ash wasted no time to counter, the pokeball popping open as Charmander emerged on the field.

"Flamethrower!"

"Char!" Charmander shouted. The flames erupted from his maw as they devoured the Magical Leaf attack, only a couple getting past the attack as they grazed Charmander and himself. Though in reality it did nothing as electricity surged through both Ash and Charmander, a second tulip present at their feet.

"Fearow, get us somewhere safe," Ash called out. The Beak Pokémon soared around, the target of a Jigglypuff now as the Normal and Fairy-Type floated like a balloon in the sky. A breeze of cool wind passed from its mouth, Fearow's wings partially frozen by the attack as he found it hard to maneuver with the ice.

"Charmander, heat up Fearow's wings! Melt that ice!"

Charmander nodded, his flamethrower slightly weakened as Fearow flew right into it. The fire still appeared to hurt Fearow as a small cry echoed outwards, but as the Beak Pokémon emerged from the flames he had his usual speed and control back.

With a simple scoop he grabbed Ash by his talons once as Charmander leapt atop his back. Ash grit his teeth at the prospect of having to fight like this, but they had no choice. It was going to be tough, but they had to beat Domino to get back to their friends. He had no intention of leaving Corey to fend for himself.

"Guess my Master was right," Domino coldly stated. Ash watched as the girl plucked petals from what he figured was a real flower this time. The plucked petals danced atop the wind, their bodies crushed against the rocky ground once they landed against it. "Even so, you're still no match for someone of my level! Roselia, Cotton Spore! Jigglypuff, Hyper Voice!"

Ash watched as Roselia shook her arms enthusiastically, a devilish grin plastered on her face as multiple fluffy cotton balls rained down. Fearow did his best to avoid them but as he turned away from one sphere, his body was struck by a barrage of sound waves. Ash covered his ears from the noise, but Fearow and Charmander struggled under it.

"Please pull through, you two!" Ash growled out. He couldn't think with all the noise and yet his partners came through for him. With a slight cry, Ash felt the wind pick up as Fearow flew away from the attack. Charmander was also on the offensive as his Fire Spin burned up the Cotton Spore, the attack now keeping Jigglypuff from chasing after them. It wasn't much, but it gave them a few moments to think things over.

Ash balled his hands into fists, his mind racing at a mile a minute as he could make out Scyther in the distance. He had to find a way out of here and fast. And yet he had a feeling this was about to turn into his toughest situation yet.

And that brings an end to this chapter. And yeah, quite a bit happened between Wartortle, the announcement of the tournament and now the attack on Ash. I'm hoping to get one final chapter up before I leave for vacation, but I have no idea if that will happen. Here's hoping. If not, expect it to go up on July 20th.

Thank you to everyone who read the chapter and supports this story. Please leave a review letting me know what you enjoyed and how I can improve the story.