Welcome back everyone! Last time, Ash not only lost to Misty but also found himself in a tough situation as he now has to face Domino while Corey is dealing with the crazed Masked Man.
Ch 23: A Loss
"Roselia, Magical Leaf!" Domino cried out. The Grass and Poison-Type raised her arms, the flowers glowing for a moment as their petals flew straight for Fearow. The Beak Pokémon tried to avoid them, but between the amount of petals and the extra weight he carried it was impossible. One struck under his wing, the Normal and Flying-Type crying out for a moment as he fell towards the ground.
"Fearow, hang in there!" Ash called as he saw their descent towards the ground quicken. Fearow quickly shook off the pain as he righted his body, Ash's feet running along the ground for a moment before the Beak Pokémon pulled back up. "Charmander, do something about those leaves!"
"Char!" Charmander replied, his mouth heating up as fire erupted from it. Unlike with his Flamethrower attack, his Fire Spin shot off in a vortex as it burned through the barrage of leaves. Though a second attack was waiting for them.
"Hyper Voice, Jigglypuff!"
Sound waves shot outwards as the Balloon Pokémon appeared before them. The blast struck hard against Fearow, the impact causing him to release Ash from his grip as the boy landed against the ground. Upon impact he felt displeasure run through his left ankle, the pain increasing as he tried to stand back up. Biting his lip, Ash forced himself to stand as he watched Domino charge at him. A staff sat in her hands as she swung it at Ash.
"You didn't think I'd let you get away this time, did you?" Domino asked, her staff being caught by Ash. The boy tried to push back against it, but he found himself unable to with the pain from his ankle. Instead, Fearow dove by quickly as the sudden gust of wind generated by him caused Domino to jump backwards. Fearow dove once more, his body followed by a white trailing light as his beak shined.
"Jigglypuff, intercept!" Domino commanded as the Normal and Fairy-Type emerged before her. A shield suddenly sprung forward as Fearow's body rammed against it, his beak unable to penetrate the green barrier. Charmander followed it up with a Metal Claw, his hands changing to a metallic substance as he too failed against the shield.
"Why are you doing this?" Ash asked, the boy grimacing for a moment as he stepped backwards. A quick glance at his ankle alerted the boy to the already present swelling. "What have I ever done to make you upset?"
Domino laughed at the question, Jigglypuff and Roselia attacking once more as Charmander leapt from Fearow's back. The Fire-Type launched off a Flamethrower attack to which Jigglypuff avoided with ease while Fearow circled around and struck it with a Steel Wing attack. The Balloon Pokémon crashed into the ground for a moment, but it appeared to only be slightly harmed as a barrage of leaves struck Fearow.
"You just have bad luck," Domino answered as she raced forward once more. Ash found himself unable to block the incoming strike as her staff swung down towards him. Though instead of being hit, a metallic ping echoed outwards; Ash opening his eyes to see Charmander blocking it with his Metal Claw attack.
"To think a child such as yourself would come into possession of Ho-oh's sacred feather."
"This is all for a stupid feather!" Ash shouted out, the boy slightly angry at all of this. He couldn't understand it at all, yes, the feather was rather cool and had some interesting properties but what made it this valuable. Charmander roared out in agreement as he slashed through the staff, breaking it in two as Domino tossed it aside.
"If only you truly understood the power which you hold. Get them, Roselia! Power Whip!"
"Selia!" the Grass and Poison-Type shouted outwards, a large tendril emerging from the center of one of her flowers. The vine shot outwards, digging deep under the ground as it rocked the surrounding area. The impact caused Ash to fall over, even Charmander losing his footing amidst it all. Fearow tried to scoop the duo back up, flying right for them only for Jigglypuff to ram itself right into him.
The ground exploded outwards as chunks of dirt and rocks shot about, a few striking Ash as he felt pain run through his arm. A few purple spots already forming as he hoped they were just bruises. The vine now stood before them as it swung down at Charmander, the Fire-Type unable to stop it as he was knocked aside. Charmander slammed into a pile of stones, a soft cry escaping his mouth as Fearow flew to his side.
"Charmander..." Ash called out through grit teeth. Jigglypuff was on the move once more, spinning through the air as it struck Fearow and then burrowed deep underground. Charmander was unmoving for a moment, his flame atop his tail barely lit as Ash tried to hobble towards him.
"Row!" Fearow cried out as Jigglypuff reemerged from the ground, its body heading right for Fearow only to be blown off course. The wind picked up momentum as a powerful gust passed through, Fearow able to carry Charmander back towards Ash as he avoided the different attacks from Roselia and Jigglypuff.
"Charmander, say something," Ash muttered, the boy shaking his partner slightly. A slight growl came from the Fire-Type but nothing more as Fearow stood before them. His wings were spread wide as Roselia launched off a Pin Missile attack, the thousands of fine missiles coming right for them.
"Fearow, blow them away and then go in with an Aerial Ace!"
A boom echoed outwards, smoke now appearing from where he had seen the electricity before. He hoped Corey and Pikachu were fine as his attention was pulled back to the situation before him. Fearow flapped his wings heavily, the gust it generated managing to blow the Pin Missile attack into the sky. It appeared to have struck Jigglypuff a few times as the Balloon Pokémon cried out. Fearow didn't waste any time, however, instead lunging forward as his beak shined white. The light trailed behind him as he dove straight for Roselia, the Thorn Pokémon completely surprised by his speed.
Roselia tumbled backwards for a moment, her body unable to stop as she slammed against the ground. Though in that moment she fired another Pin Missile as the barrage struck the backside of Fearow. The Beak Pokémon cried out in pain, his voice causing Charmander to move slightly.
"Char..." the Fire-Type moaned out, Ash noticing that his tail flame grew brighter. Ash quickly called for Fearow to strike with a Steel Wing, but Jigglypuff emerged behind him first. A cool breeze flew across the air, Ash watching as Fearow's wings were frozen as he descended towards the ground.
He tried to call out to Fearow, but it did little as his trusty flier smashed into the ground. Roselia was waiting for him too, a Power Whip launching from her flowers as the ground around Fearow erupted outwards. The tendril smashed down onto Fearow, his screams echoing for a moment as Ash felt the heat from Charmander intensify. The flame was even brighter now as Ash removed Charmander from his lap.
The Fire-Type stirred softly, standing tall as he launched a Flamethrower that decimated the Power Whip. Ash blinked in awe, surprised at how much strength Charmander showed in that single attack. Fearow stirred slightly, but Ash quickly recalled him into his pokeball.
"Sorry for putting you through that, Fearow. Rest up," Ash stated as he placed the pokeball back onto his belt. He thought over the situation as he noticed Charmander panting heavily. Ash wondered if perhaps his Fire-Type was running on pure adrenaline right now as he rushed for Roselia.
"Charmander, get back here!" Ash cried. But he quickly understood what was happening: Charmander was pissed to see his friends hurt in such a manner. The flame atop his tail grew even brighter as it appeared larger than his entire body, Ash pulling out his pokedex to understand what was occurring.
"Blaze, the ability of the Charmander line and several other Pokémon. When injured enough, their power increases tremendously. However, it only affects Fire-Type moves." Ash nodded slowly as he closed the pokedex. The device confirmed his suspicion as Charmander launched off a Flamethrower attack.
Roselia tried to dodge it but the intensity was too strong, the Grass and Poison-Type still caught within the flames as the tips of her flowers burnt. Jigglypuff flew in and slammed against Charmander, but the Fire-Type held strong as he refused to allow the Balloon Pokémon to escape. Instead he threw it towards the ground and used a Metal Claw against it.
Jigglypuff deflated slightly, Charmander quickly finishing it with a Fire Spin attack. Ash blinked at the strength Charmander displayed and wondered how Cross ever thought he was weak. Though Charmander's breathing began to grow heavier, his flame dying slightly as Domino smirked.
"Guess your little display used the last of your strength." Recalling Jigglypuff, the girl snapped her fingers as Roselia launched another Power Whip. Ash forced himself forward this time, the pain being ignored as he got in front of Charmander. He watched as the tendril shot up from underneath him, the plant striking his back as his bag ripped slightly.
His body was thrown across the area, Charmander chasing after him as Ash patted the Flame Pokémon's head.
"I'm fine. What about you?" Charmander continued to tug on Ash's arm, the boy chuckling at the concern Charmander displayed. Though truthfully he wanted to protect the Fire-Type with the condition he was currently in. Ash worried that he wouldn't last much longer and without a Pokémon Center nearby, it would be bad for Charmander.
"You know," Domino began to say as she picked at her nails. Roselia strode right up to her, a smirk plastered on the Grass and Poison-Type as she pointed a flower towards the duo. "This could have all been avoided if you just handed over that stupid feather. Even if you managed to get away from me, there would be others after you for it.
"Might as well save yourself the time and just hand it over. Then you could get proper medical attention for your Charmander."
Ash's eyes grew wide at the thought. After all, it was just a feather he had turned into a memento of his first day as a trainer. He knew Pikachu wouldn't mind him handing it over if it was to protect everyone else. And yet a voice within his head urged him to hold onto it. Standing up, Ash dusted himself off as Charmander ran between him and Domino.
"Char, char! Charmander char!" Charmander shouted out. Ash was taken aback by his Pokémon's intensity. Despite just joining them a few weeks ago, he was ready to do anything to protect everyone. Ash pulled his hat down slightly over his eyes, a chuckle erupting from his stomach as Domino looked perplexed.
"Sorry, but Charmander is right. We'll never back down to anyone, no matter what the situation is." A light suddenly shined outwards, a rainbow like glow emerging from his backpack as Ash reached inside. He fished around until finally finding the source of the light, his feather radiating the rainbow hue just as it had previously. Though this time the light extended to Charmander.
Unlike with Bulbasaur, however, Charmander's injuries weren't healed. Instead, he rushed forward as his speed appeared to increase slightly. Domino and Roselia had no chance to dodge as Charmander's claws glowed white. He slashed against the Thorn Pokémon before jumping into the air.
"Fire Spin!" Ash called, the flames erupting downward as they entrapped the duo within them. Ash felt himself grow tired as the glow increased from the feather, Charmander's speed and strength increasing as the flames raged on. Ash could hear a cry from Roselia, but the flames continued on even after Charmander landed.
"Call off the attack," Domino cried out, Ash able to see the girl on her knees as sweat poured from her face. Roselia was also on her knees, her flowers now wilted as the tips of their petals were burnt to a crisp. Luckily for them, the Fire Spin came to a conclusion on its own, Charmander now panting heavily as the glow disappeared from his body.
The glow also disappeared from the feather once more as Ash wondered just what happened. Looking at Domino and Roselia, the duo appeared to no longer be a threat as Ash turned towards Charmander. Or at least what used to be Charmander. Passed out in the same location as Charmander had been standing was a glowing body, the shape changing slightly as it grew larger. A horn also taking shape along the tip of Charmander's head while his claws grew in size. Pulling his pokedex out, Ash scanned the now unconscious creature.
"Charmeleon, the Flame Pokémon and the evolved form of Charmander. Tough fights excite this Pokémon who are naturally very hot-headed. When in a fury, only the thrill of victory calms down this Pokémon."
Ash looked on in awe at Charmander, or rather Charmeleon, as the creature laid there sleeping. Looking at the feather, Ash wondered if it had some effect in pulling forth Charmander's dormant strength and caused it to evolve or if the Fire-Type had done it on his own. His thoughts soon vanished however as an explosion once more rocked the area.
"Corey. Pikachu," Ash muttered as he recalled Charmeleon into his pokeball. As he walked back towards the previous explosion he looked towards Domino. He figured she was no longer a threat as she struggled to stay conscious. Besides, he didn't have time to worry about her.
Forcing his body to move despite the fatigue and pain, Ash climbed back up the hill and trekked across the terrain until he reached the area. To his surprise, Corey appeared rather beaten up as parts of his tracksuit were ripped apart. Even Pikachu and Scyther had looked better as they both appeared banged up as cuts ran along their bodies.
"Corey!" he called out, his voice pulling the older boy's attention towards him. Corey ran over to Ash, his hands placed atop the younger boy's shoulders as he looked worried.
"You're alright. That's great," Corey muttered, Pikachu joining him as he licked Ash's hand slightly. The two boys immediately turned their attention back towards the battle as Scyther rushed towards Gengar, the latter launching off a barrage of miniature Shadow Balls.
The Mantis Pokémon weaved between the attacks with precision as he rammed into Gengar's body with Acrobatics. The attack managed to displace Gengar, but the masked man wasn't worried as he chuckled to himself.
"I guess the bimbo couldn't handle even one job. I'll make sure she's never heard from again then," the man stated. Ash turned towards him, his face now determined as Pikachu raced forward. His cheeks sparked with electricity as it was launched at Gengar. Though the attack did little as a Night Shade met it head on.
The ensuing explosion rocked the area as smoke billowed outwards. The only sound that entered Ash's ears was that of Scyther's wings, the Bug and Flying-Type rushing forward as his scythes glowed bright purple. With a slash forward the energy launched off and cut through the ground and smoke. Ash watched on as the attack struck Gengar and launched him backwards.
The Ghost and Poison-Type tumbled slightly until coming to a rest before the man's feet. However, he showed no sympathy for his partner as Gengar rose back onto his feet.
"Pathetic. Your strength should make those Neanderthals tremble," he muttered as Gengar rushed forward once more. As if energized by the condescending words, Gengar slammed his now frozen fists into Scyther as the impact launched the Mantis Pokémon straight into Pikachu. The two Pokémon struggled to get untangled as a Shadow Ball rained down onto them. The impact launched both Pikachu and Scyther into the air though the latter was the one targeted. Gengar brought his hands together as electricity formed within them, the cackling shooting out slightly until he had thrust it forward.
The beam struck Scyther with an intense might, the Bug and Flying-Type screaming as the electricity seared his body. Gengar tried to attack once more, but Pikachu intercepted as he launched his own Thunderbolt at the Ghost and Poison-Type. The attack held little power behind it, but it allowed Scyther the chance to recover and escape.
"Any plan, Corey?"
"Yeah. Hold out until help of some kind gets here," Corey replied as he threw an arm to the side. The action knocked Ash over as a knife flew by, Corey just missing it as it stuck into a nearby tree. The masked individual chuckled at the quick reflexes as Ash noticed a few cracks in his mask.
"Unfortunately for you two, I cannot sanction such a plan," the masked man stated as Gengar emerged behind the two boys. Ash could feel the cold energy behind his body as he saw an Ice Punch aimed right for him. Scyther moved as a speed to block the punch however, his scythe struggling against the might of Gengar's two fists. Pikachu joined in as he rammed his body against Gengar to try and push him back slightly.
"For you see, I have two objectives today. Retrieve the feather and to make you foolish insects perish."
"Is he talking about that feather you have?" Corey asked. Ash nodded slightly as he called for Pikachu to use a Flash attack. The area lit up instantly as the duo used it as a chance to relocate themselves on the battlefield. However, Gengar continued his attack as he slammed Pikachu and Scyther backwards.
"Yeah. They want it for some reason."
"Then I guess we can't let him have it. Scyther, make sure Gengar doesn't get close to Ash."
"Scyther!" the Bug and Flying-Type claimed in agreement. He shot off straight for Gengar, scythes raised as they slashed at the Ghost and Poison-Type. Gengar however dodged each attack with ease, his body changing shape to avoid the sharp blades. A sinister smirk spread across Gengar's face as his eyes glowed red for a moment as two concentrated beams of Night Shade shot from them.
"Pikachu, cancel them with Thunderbolt!" Ash stated as he jumped in on the action. Pikachu sprinted across the field, cheeks sparking with electricity as he jumped into the air. Screaming, Pikachu unleased the torrent of electricity as it struck against the Night Shade. The explosion caused the wind to kick up, both Pikachu and Scyther being knocked backwards as a clattering sound echoed around the field.
As the dust cleared away once more, Ash felt his jaw fall towards the ground as the masked individual stood there. Only this time his distinguished feature was missing. And in its spot was Thad's face, the burn mark still present as he winced at the sudden display of sunlight.
"Such an unfortunate reveal," Thad mused, his hand resting against his chin as he picked up the cracked mask. "I had the most brilliant plan to remove the mask as I removed the feather from your dying body. I suppose this will have to do instead."
Ash remained speechless as Corey stepped forward, the older boy shaking slightly as Scyther rushed forward. Everything was a blur for Ash now as he thought back to all the strange occasions with Thad. How the boy had kept an eye on him since they returned from winter break. Corey's voice was muffled slightly as Ash blinked, his classmate racing towards him as Corey pushed him away. A scream entered his ears as a red liquid splashed against the ground.
Ash quickly came to his senses as he saw a trail of blood drip from Corey's hand and onto the ground. A knife sat within Thad's hand, the red substance dripping from it as well. Pikachu growled at the action, Ash also narrowing his gaze as Corey tried to show him that everything was alright. And yet the older boy found it impossible to close his hand completely without a surge of pain running through him.
"Allow me to completely decimate your spirits before I eviscerate you," Thad mocked as he spread his arms out to his sides. A spree of laughter erupted from the deranged by as he pulled a small sphere from within his cloak, both Ash and Corey growing defeated from the look of it.
"This entire skirmish has been nothing more than play time for myself. Forced to withhold my true strength but now I'm done playing. No one can enter or leave here so long as Hypno keeps his Barrier up. How I tracked your movements for days, watching every stupid action of yours to find a moment of weakness. A moment of alone time where I could pillage without any unwanted eyes.
"But you, Mr. Corey, you were always present. A thorn in my side from the moment we arrived here. So this will be quite pleasuring," Thad remarked as he touched the sphere. Ash felt himself go blind for a moment as an incredible display of light shined from the stone, Gengar also shining brightly as his body changed shape.
The light eventually died down, but Gengar was nowhere to be seen only for his arms to reach out of the ground. They wrapped themselves around Ash's legs, slowly pulling the boy down into the ground as Corey tugged on Ash's arms to try and fight it.
"Scyther, little help here!" Corey grunted out. Ash wanted to scream, he wanted to say anything but he found himself unable to get the words out as his body continued to be pulled underneath. Looking up, however, a purple blade of energy shot right for Ash.
"Whoa!" Ash shouted out in instinct as the blade erupted against the ground. The explosion rocked the area as Gengar lost his grip, Ash rocketing out of the ground and floundering about as Thad raced for him. A knife sat rested in his hand as he tossed it at Ash once more, Corey blocking it again as he jumped in front of it. The knife sat firmly in his leg, the older boy's knee buckling for a moment as he dropped onto it.
"I had no qualms with you until your meddling interfered. And yet you still choose to cement yourself in belongings that matter not to you," Thad murmured as he paced back and forth. Gengar reemerged from the ground as Scyther engaged the monster. Pikachu also joined in as Ash commanded for a Thunderbolt. The blast shocked Gengar's body completely but did little damage.
"Please," Corey stated as he wrestled the knife from his leg. Ripping a bit of his tracksuit off, Corey quickly tied it around the injury as the orange fabric was quickly stained red. Ash watched as the older boy stumbled for a moment but he held his ground just fine. "You and I both know even if I weren't involved you would still kill me. I can see it in your eyes. They're the ones of a madman who has nothing to lose but everything to gain.
"So tell us, why do you want this feather so badly."
"Simpletons such as yourselves do not deserve to bask in my grand plan. Not even my allies truly understand the connotations of what I have in store. But please, humor yourself by begging."
"You won't get that from me," Corey growled out, his arms extended wide as if to shield Ash. The boy looked on to Corey's back, the image of it giving a reassuring feeling to Ash. He could hear heavy breathing coming from the older student, and yet he appeared to have no intentions of running away. "As long as I'm still standing, you won't lay a single finger on Ash or anyone!
"Now Scyther!"
"Scyther!" the Mantis Pokémon shouted out, his body glowing as multiple copies emerged all over the field. Each one of them glowed differently, a few had their entire bodies covered in a blue aura while others had only their scythes. Some were white while others held the shade of purple.
At once the entire swarm of Scyther rushed forward as they slammed against Gengar. However, the Ghost and Poison-Type was faster as he stretched and squeezed his body to avoid the blows. The copies of Scyther rammed into each other as they vanished upon contact until explosions rained down onto the field.
"Gar?" Gengar asked as the blades of energy slammed all over the place. Gengar had lost his sight as the real Scyther fought onward. His body slammed into Gengar as a Thunderbolt emerged through the smoke, Pikachu racing forward as a Flash attack went off.
"You may not get it, Thad, but not everyone falls in times of despair! We can find a light in any space of darkness and run towards it," Corey screamed out. His foot slammed against the ground as Ash felt goosebumps run down his arms. The battle appeared to be turning around now as Scyther and Pikachu continued to knock around Gengar. The latter unable to launch an attack as long as Pikachu kept blinding him. Maybe with Corey here, he actually was safe.
"You petulant imbecile," Thad stated, the boy spitting at the ground as Gengar rolled before him. With a slight kick, Thad had Gengar standing up once more as he shook off the last batch of attacks. A gasp escaped from Corey, Ash also shocked to see only a few minor scrapes covered Gengar while both Pikachu and Scyther looked exhausted.
"Quit lollygagging around and finish them off!"
"Gengar gar," Gengar replied as a beam of energy shot outwards. Ash had barely seen it as it shot outwards and struck Scyther straight in the chest. The Mantis Pokémon fell backwards as his pupils turned white for a moment before they returned. Gengar pounced onto Scyther, the Bug and Flying-Type blowing him away with the wind generated from his wings.
"Having trouble are we, Mr. Big Talk?" Thad asked as he smirked towards Corey. He began to take a few steps towards the two boys, but Pikachu leapt between them. His cheeks sparked with electricity as he glared down Thad. Ash called for his best friend to use a Thunderbolt, but Gengar appeared before the attack could be launched.
"Cha!" Pikachu cried out, saliva falling from his mouth as Gengar's fist lodged itself into his stomach. The electricity he had built up dispersed harmlessly as he rolled across the ground.
"Pikachu! Get up, buddy," Ash called out as he watched Pikachu struggle from the attack. The Electric-Type bit his lower lip as he forced himself back onto all four legs as he sprinted back into the battle.
"Scyther, Psycho Cut once more!" Corey called out.
"Pikachu, back him up with Thunderbolt!"
Both Pokémon nodded in agreement, but their movements were becoming sluggish now as Gengar avoided both attacks with ease. The Ghost and Poison-Type floated into the sky as he avoided the streak of electricity only to take the Psycho Cut head on. The blade exploded against his body as smoke billowed outwards.
"Pika!" Pikachu screamed out as his body rolled from the smoke. Frost could be seen covering his body as two halves of a Shadow Ball ricocheted out of the smoke. The two objects exploded against the ground as rocks and dirt flew about.
"Scy...Scy..." Scyther panted out, one eye now swollen shut as Gengar sat there chuckling. Ash felt his body shake with rage, his feet moving towards Pikachu as Corey tried to stop him. However the boy made it around his grasp and reached his best friend, his body shivering from the coldness that seeped into his body.
"Oh my. How it appears death's cold grasp is reaching for your little rat."
Thad took a step forward as Ash whipped his head around towards the boy. His eyes caused even the maniacal student to step backwards as Ash stood up. Within that moment both Scyther and Corey took advantage of it as they tackled Gengar and Thad respectively.
"Stay away from him!" Corey shouted out, the two boys wrestling across the destroyed area. Scyther managed to knock Gengar down the hill, the two Pokémon rolling about as Thad kicked Corey off of his body. The older student gasped for air as he held his chest, his body shaking from fatigue now.
"You stay put!" Thad screamed as he wiped some blood from his face. He spit at the ground once more as Ash stood weakly opposite him. He could tell Thad's body was ready to give out as well, his knees knocking together as he took steps forward. Reaching into his now ripped cloak, he pulled out another knife, the blade shinning pleasantly as he spun it around.
"No. More. Games. This ends now you obnoxious, moronic, insignificant fools! Hypno, drop the Barrier to hold the Neanderthal in place!"
Ash felt his entire body stiffen up as Hypno's eyes glowed yellow. The color immediately surrounded Ash as he watched his body turn a shade of blue. It felt strange as he couldn't move his body at all, every muscle unresponsive as he watched Thad get closer to him. With the knife pulled backwards Ash waited for it to be plunged into his body.
The sound of footsteps entered his eardrums as they slammed against the ground, the intensity present with how fast they were moving. He wondered if help had gotten here, that one of the teachers or even Lance or that Drake guy had found them and were about to put a stop to it. He shut his eyes as he prayed for a miracle. He didn't want to die yet, not with so many of his plans unfinished.
Silence fell around him as a warm sensation started to drip onto his body. A cough broke the silence as Ash opened his eyes to see Corey standing over him, the boy smiling despite the look of defeat on his face. His eyes looked drained as Ash noticed the knife right through the boy's chest, just an inch away from his own as blood dripped from it.
"I...said to...stay…away," Corey coughed out, a few drops of blood falling from his mouth. Ash could hear Thad cursing the boy, but it felt like the world had stopped in that moment. Ash couldn't believe the sight before him as he wanted to cry out. He wanted to scream to the heavens and awaken, hoping it was all a dream.
"Guess I won't...be seeing you...in that tournament." Corey closed his eyes for a moment as his smile started to shrink. His hand planted itself atop Ash's head as he rubbed the bit of hair that wasn't covered by his hat. It moved down Ash's face as he patted the boy carefully, Ash already feeling the coldness in his hands.
"Corey..."
"Shhh..." he said, another cough coming from his body. Ash watched as a few drops of blood emerged with it, the substance splattering against his shirt. His voice dropped to a near whisper, Ash struggling to hear it as tears streamed down both their faces. "If only one of our dreams could happen, I'd rather yours occur.
"Even if I couldn't see it in person."
"But what about you!? Your dreams had purpose too!" Ash cried out. His heart was starting to pound now, his breathing more shallow as he took several quick breaths. His eyes looked all over the area as his head remained stationary. He just wanted this to end. "You can't leave now, Corey!"
"You're kind of like my little bro. I would never let anything happen to you or Mayaka," Corey stated as he gasped for air. Thad yanked the knife from the boy's stomach, the action causing Corey to gag up a bit more blood now as he struggled to stand.
"Don't...worry about me… I'm just gonna...take a nap."
Corey's eyes closed as Ash felt his hand go limp, the object falling from Ash's face as the older boy fell onto the ground. Ash waited for him to move once more, but it never happened. Everything suddenly paused for Ash as a voice rang through his head.
"Calm yourself," it rang out. But Ash couldn't do it, not after what occurred before his very eyes. The voice sounded gentle however, as if it wanted to help Ash. A light started to radiate from his bag, the rainbow hue gaining a smirk from Thad's face as he reached for the object. However, Ash found himself calm now as he grabbed Thad's wrist.
"How are you moving!?"
Ash didn't answer, the boy also confused as he broke out of the Disable. Pikachu was also standing up though Ash noted a difference with him. A rainbow hue covered his entire body though unlike Charmander it seemed different as the light trailed off his body. Streaking across the field, Pikachu slammed into Hypno who was knocked out with just a single blow.
"The true power finally awakens," Thad mused as he placed two fingers in his mouth. A whistle rang out as Gengar reappeared by his side, Scyther following shortly after as the Mantis Pokémon grew mortified from the sight of Corey. Ash remained silent as the Bug and Flying-Type hovered over his deceased friend.
A sudden gust passed by as Ash's hat blew from his head, his own body covered in the rainbow aura as he felt almost as one with Pikachu. They spoke no words and yet the duo moved in harmony. Pikachu raced across the field as a Thunderbolt was launched before his body. The streak of electricity ate the ground before it as a crater rested where the bolt ran through. The attack striking Gengar as the Ghost and Poison-Type screamed in agony.
"Don't lose focus," the voice stated, Ash nodding as Pikachu raced around once more. He launched as second Thunderbolt as the attack struck Gengar and exploded. Gengar flew backwards, sparks of electricity now running across his body as he struggled to stand.
"Quickly my chosen hero. My power is limited for now."
Ash blinked at that, raising his hands as he noticed the rainbow hue began to falter. Pikachu likewise noted it, the duo becoming more aware of their surroundings now as Thad smirked.
"It appears you don't have full control yet. Such a pity."
"We aren't done yet. Volt Tackle, Pikachu," Ash replied. His voice was emotionless as he slammed his foot against the ground. The pain and fatigue rocked his body as he grimaced from it. Pikachu began to race for Gengar, his Thunderbolt charging up as Ash noticed a strange occurrence with it. The energy wasn't dispersing this time as it instead consumed Pikachu's body, the Electric also covered in a rainbow hue as he slammed into Gengar.
The blast exploded everywhere as electricity flew all over the area, Ash able to see Gengar revert back to his base form defeated. However, Ash also felt his own body give out as he collapsed against the ground. He couldn't move a single muscle as his body tried to move. The sight of Thad wobbling towards him caused his body to scream out but his muscles wouldn't react.
A helicopter could be seen descending now as Ash failed to make out the figure. The voice was a blur as was the body, Ash only able to make out Thad running without a moment of hesitation.
"Kid! Kid!" the voice cried out as Ash found himself drifting off to sleep. He could feel a light embrace as someone lifted him, but it was all too unrecognizable. His body wanted to sleep after everything that had went down and he planned to let it sleep.
It had been a few days following the event with Thad when Ash finally awoke, the boy confused to find himself in what he figured was a run down place. Though as he looked around the room he realized immediately where he was.
"What am I doing in the Vermilion Gym?" he asked, rubbing his eyes. He couldn't remember much from the previous few days as he looked down at his shirt, it being a clearly different one. Pikachu appeared to still be sleeping as Ash stumbled out of his bed. He grimaced slightly as he placed pressure onto his foot, his ankle still bothering him.
Forcing himself to walk, Ash made his way out of the room and into the hallway, stumbling as he found his way back to the kitchen and dining room. The area felt lonely as he walked into the kitchen, Surge leaning against the fridge with his face planted in his face. He could hear what sounded as sniffles escape from the large man, but it didn't seem right coming from him.
"Surge?" Ash asked, his voice hoarse as the man jumped. A look of happiness spread onto the Gym Leader as he enveloped Ash into a tight embrace.
"You're alright, kid," he muttered, Ash slightly uncomfortable by it all. Holding on for a few minutes, Surge remained silent with the exception of an occasional "thank you" being mumbled. Eventually he pulled back as Ash had a good look of his face; Surge's eyes were completely red as was his nose. Tears were stained onto the front of his face as he wiped at it with a sleeve.
"Ya had me worried. Ya had us all worried."
Ash looked around the area as he noticed it empty however, Surge appeared to be the only one within the building at the moment but a bag by his feet explained everything. The man was dressed in a black suit as a smaller one rested on a coat hanger. That's when the memories of what went down truly returned.
"How's Corey! Please tell me he's..."
"Kid, I'm sorry."
Ash felt his body go numb, his limbs dropping as the entire weight of the world fell atop him. He had no words to say, no actions to take. Corey had given his life to save him and he could never properly thank him.
"It's tough, trust me," Surge stated as he fought back a sniffle. The man got on one knee as he placed a hand atop Ash's shoulder. His voice shook now as he bit at the bottom of his lip. His head rocked back and forth as he tried to find the right words.
"It's never easy to say goodbye. But, he wouldn't want you to mope around. It'll be hard for a while, but you still have me and Mayaka and Kiyu. And your mother and all your friends from school. We're always here for you, kid."
Ash remained silent as he looked at the suit that was clearly for him. His eyes drifted downwards as he looked at the floor. "When is it?"
"Later today. They asked if you would be a pallbearer. Now, you don't have to if you're un-"
"It's the least I can do..."
Grabbing the suit, Ash brought it back to his room with him as he looked at Pikachu. The Electric-Type continued to sleep as Ash thought back to that last attack he pulled off. He had never seen such power come from Pikachu without the Mouse Pokémon being charged by another Pokémon. As if knowing he had been watched, Pikachu stirred slightly as he smiled at Ash.
"Pikapi!" the Electric-Type cried out in joy. He leapt atop Ash's shoulder as he nuzzled against his best friend's face. Ash laughed at the action, but to him the laugh felt empty. Placing Pikachu atop the bed, Ash noticed his backpack was open as his feather rested atop his clothes. But the GS ball was gone. He hoped that Surge had taken it to Professor Oak's and that it wasn't Thad who had it.
Within moments he was changed. With his backpack and hat in one hand, Ash walked back into the kitchen with Pikachu. Surge nodded softly before leading the boy outside to where the car was waiting.
The drive was silent, neither of them able to talk really as Ash watched the city vanish behind him. Even the usually cheerful citizens kept their distance as Surge made his way towards Corey's hometown. In all he found it not that far of a drive, maybe fifteen minutes total as they pulled up to a small house. It wasn't much to write home about as it reminded the boy about his own home quite a bit. The two story house sat on an open field as Ash wondered if the fence was to allow Corey's Pokémon to roam freely whenever he visited home.
"Come on," Surge muffled out. The car was shut off, Ash opening his door as he noticed the group of people amassed at the house. A line stretched down the road as it passed a few other homes as Ash wondered if the entire town came out to say their goodbyes, Ash and Surge able to sneak past them with some help.
"You must be, Ash," an older man stated as he wiped his glasses. His hair was thinning but Ash recognized it as the same color as Corey's, the man having some relation to the boy. Possibly his father. "He used to talk about you, Surge and Mayaka all the time. It's tough I know, trust me I'm his father.
"But my son was never the kind to get down on himself. He always tried to find the bright spot in a sea of darkness."
Ash nodded as a small smile crossed his face. Corey's father waved them in as they walked through the house and into the backyard as they were brought to the front of the line along with others that he recognized. Kiyu and Mayaka were off to the side as the latter had red eyes. Though it was the sight of Neesha and Fergus that was the toughest of all.
"You idiot!" Fergus yelled as he stared at the casket that sat before the open plot of land. Ash wondered if it were weird to bury your family in your own backyard, but he figured they wanted to be close to their child. The older boy grabbed at the casket as he shook it slightly, tears streaming down his face as they danced atop the wood.
"We were supposed to settle our score at the Indigo League this year. And then when you became a Gym Leader. And when I became an Elite Four member. But all of it's ruined cause you had to go and die!"
People began to stare as Fergus continued his tantrum as Ash could describe it, but truthfully he felt the same way. He was pissed that Corey was gone and he hated that feeling. He knew he did it to save him, and yet Ash couldn't help but feel upset. As if maybe he should have been the one to die if it meant Corey got to live.
"Corey, don't leave me..." Fergus finished with as he was dragged away from the casket. Neesha didn't say anything, or at least out loud, but Ash had a feeling she was taking it just as hard if not harder than Fergus. The girl stood there silently for a bit until finally bowing to the picture that sat atop the casket.
She passed by Ash, the boy able to see her wipe a few tears away as he turned away from the photo and casket. It was too painful as he walked away. Sitting down, he felt a punch on his shoulder as Mayaka sat next to him. Her face looked red and puffy, but Ash knew better than to mention it to her.
"I'm glad yer safe, Hotshot," she managed to croak out. Her face rested in her hands, those resting by her elbows atop her knees. Her usual energy was gone as she stared out into the distance. Ash wondered just what might have been running through her head.
"I told ya after Saffron to not pull this anymore. But I can't even be upset since it isn't yer fault.
"It's that damn Thad! Next time I see him I'll teach him a lesson he'll never forget."
"No," Ash whispered out. His voice was barely audible as Mayaka stared at him, her eyes blinking in confusion as Ash leaned back. His eyes glanced towards Corey's casket as the line of people saying their goodbyes continued to dwindle. Pikachu sat before Ash, rolling in the grass slightly as his trainer picked him up slowly. "Corey wouldn't want revenge. It would only make us into another Thad."
The girl had no answer to that, a small smile crossing his face as his eyes looked upward. A cool breeze passed over the wake as a few leaves danced above them. It felt odd knowing that Corey wouldn't be there any more. And yet Ash lost his anger. He still felt frustrated and annoyed, but the anger was slowly vanishing from him.
"Ya can't be talkin' all cool like that, Hotshot," Mayaka stated as she smacked his back. Ash winced for a moment as he coughed, the girl quickly apologizing for the impact. Ash waved her off as they quickly laughed at the situation. "But for real, if ya start acting all cool I'll knock some sense back into ya."
Ash nodded in agreement to that, the duo exchanging a slight fist pump as Ash noticed the mood change. A priest appeared to head towards the casket as Ash and Mayaka stood up. Even Pikachu rose up as they listened to the man speak about Corey. Ash looked around the area as he noticed that not only were Fergus and Neesha here, but the entire senior class had returned to Kanto to be here.
He didn't pay much attention to the actual words spoken, but Ash figured that Corey was watching over them right now as a few rays of sunshine rained down onto them. The priest finished his sermon as Ash noticed Surge appear behind him, the Gym Leader nudging Ash slightly as the duo made their way towards the casket. Standing before it, they were joined by not only Fergus and Corey's father but two other seniors he had seen on campus before.
There wasn't a single dry eye in attendance as the six pallbearers lifted the casket. Music started to play softly as they walked towards the hole in the ground, Ash noting how Corey's Pokémon were in attendance except for Scyther. His feet felt like lead as he marched in stride with the others, his ears picking up Fergus' failure when it came to stifling his tears.
"Corey..." the older boy muttered as they group reached the hole. Ash took a few steps backwards as the priest stepped forward once more.
He didn't hear a single word however as his tears finally flowed. Ash was joined with a chorus of cries from Fergus and the other seniors as Mayaka joined in along with Surge's own tears. Though the man stood strong and saluted as Corey's casket was slowly lowered. Ash never had a chance to thank the boy, to really say his goodbyes, and yet he knew that Corey understood his feelings. The music came to a conclusion as the priest thanked all those who came to remember Corey, though Ash didn't care to listen.
"This can't be happening..."
"First funeral?" Mayaka asked as she joined him once more. The two leaned against a tree as they watched the adults talk, Ash noting how Corey's parents appeared to be mostly with Surge and Neesha. "Trust me, this never gets easier."
"I figured as much," Ash replied as he wiped at his face. A strain of mucus ran across his sleeve as the boy hoped Surge could clean it. "Why is it we always have to say goodbye to our loved ones? Why can't we all just be together?"
"I like to think they're just gettin' it all ready for us up there. It's less of a goodbye and more of a 'see ya later'. Ya know?"
Ash nodded at that as he looked at the (now noticeably) smaller gathering as most had left. A pile of assorted flowers sat before Corey's resting place as a few blew in the wind. The last peaceful memory he had with the boy had been when the tournament had been announced. He looked at himself and realized that at this moment he was in no condition to even think about entering, let alone think of the possibility of winning.
Saying a quick goodbye to Mayaka, the boy motioned for Pikachu to follow him as they walked across the field. He could see Surge talking to Corey's father as he handed over five pokeballs to the older man. Though his presence was felt by Surge, the Gym Leader turning away as he smirked at Ash.
"What ya want?"
Ash smirked back at the man knowing full well there was no ill intent behind his words. "Train me for the upcoming tournament. I need to get stronger so things like this will never happen again."
"Took ya long enough. I've been waitin' for ya to ask. But keep in mind my trainin' ain't easy."
"I know. I'm expecting as much."
"For the next two months yer mine, kid. Remember that," Surge stated as the two shared a laugh. A few people looked in their direction but paid them little attention as they continued on. "We leave tomorrow to begin yer trainin'."
"What about school? It's gonna start back up soon," Ash asked as Surge wrapped an arm around the boy. He walked him out to the vehicle they had arrived in and pulled out a large packet of assignments.
"I already talked things over with that old hag Agatha and yer mom. They both said it would be fine. Also dropped that strange pokeball off for ya," Surge stated as Ash grasped the papers. The pile felt heavy in his hands but he didn't care. He had to endure this to grow stronger.
Pikachu tapped him on the shoulder as the boy looked at his best friend. Pikachu flexed his arms slightly, Ash understanding that he too was all in for it. And he had a feeling that the others would be all for this special training as well. It was time for the next step in their journey to begin.
And that's a wrap with the Orange Island stuff for now. Ash probably wishes he never went there but oh well, can't change the past. But seriously, a lot went down here that will continue to have effects later on. Especially Surge's training for Ash. But, you'll see it later.
As for this chapter, it's the last one before I leave for vacation. So there won't be another new chapter until the 20th of July at the earliest. Maybe the 19th late at night but I wouldn't expect that.
Thank you to everyone who reads and supports the story. Please leave a review with your thoughts on the chapter and how I could improve it.