Welcome back everyone. It's been a while since the last chapter, but last time Ash managed to beat Ritchie and advance into the semi-finals and a match against Cross.
Ch 27: The Bond
It felt like forever as Ash stood outside the door. Silence swept through the deserted Pokémon Center as the only semblance of life flickered on the mounted television. He had no interest in the match however, occasional segments of Gary's match against Jimmy appearing in his peripheral vision. He couldn't think of anything but Chimchar as the operating light remained lit atop the door.
"Pika?" Pikachu asked, the Electric-Type sitting restlessly in Ash's lap. The boy didn't respond and only gave a small yet forced rub to his partner's head. A forced smile crossed his face as Pikachu returned it and yet Ash didn't feel like smiling. He remembered what Nurse Joy had told him when they arrived. That Chimchar looked to be in a serious condition; she would have to tend to him immediately else risk his condition getting worse.
Forcing his hands together Ash watched as the light finally faded. He wanted to believe that he and Pikachu forced it to go out, but he knew better. The only sight he paid attention to next was of Nurse Joy stepping through those doors; she appeared tired, sweat running down the side of her face as a smile sat on her face. A bit of her gown appeared singed as Chansey joined by her side with a few burn marks herself.
"Chimchar is going to be just fine. Though he shouldn't battle for quite some time," Nurse Joy stated as she opened the door. With one hand she motioned for Ash to follow her as he did just that.
His feet felt heavy, a lump stuck in his throat as Ash found it difficult to swallow. And yet he felt no nerves as he passed down the hall until he stood before a glass window. A closed door stood next to it but he didn't dare to enter. Not while Chimchar appeared to be resting calmly. Wires ran from his body as machines tracked his vitals, Ash having no clue what any of the numbers meant but figured he was stable.
"Hang in there, Chimchar," Ash whispered. His hand planted itself against the warm glass as he noticed the bedsheets also were burnt slightly. With a simple sigh, Ash adjusted his hat as his eyes narrowed towards his belt. Now that the Fire-Type was in better shape he could focus entirely on his match with Cross.
Slight interest rested within him about Gary's match, but the Pallet Town native held a suspicion as to who won the match. And if he were to place a bet it wouldn't be for Jimmy.
Knowing he couldn't do anything else for Chimchar, Ash readied himself to leave. His body however responded differently as he found himself unable to walk away. Almost as if it were in a trance. With a light chuckle he turned towards Pikachu, the Electric-Type scurrying up his shoulder.
"Guess we'll stay for a bit longer."
Pikachu nodded to that, placing his own paw against the glass. At first he yanked it away from the heat but placed it back on without hesitation. A slight stirring occurred with Chimchar as the Fire-Type rolled around before finally curling itself into a ball. The flame protruding from his backside now pointing upwards as it appeared to be slightly bigger than before. Rubbing at his eyes, Ash wondered if he had imagined it all as the flame quickly regressed to its normal size.
"I see you're still here."
Ash's head whipped outwards towards the sound. He had been so occupied with Chimchar he hadn't heard another individual make their way down the hall. Or maybe they had made it so they wouldn't be heard. Either way, Ash found himself looking at the person who placed Chimchar in this situation.
"Paul," Ash muttered as he moved his hand away from the glass. Pikachu's cheeks sparked lightly as Paul walked past them. His eyes locked onto Chimchar, a small smirk crossed his face as it turned into a frown.
"Guess I couldn't get him to pull that power out for me."
"Are you still going on about that?" Ash asked, his anger starting to rise as Paul placed a hand on the glass. "Chimchar is in this state because you were so focused on that power."
"True. But didn't you pick up the signs of it?" Paul asked, his hand moving away from the glass and back into his pocket. Ash blinked at the question, his mind rewinding as he pictured both Nurse Joy and Chansey following their work on Chimchar. Not to mention the room he rested in currently had several burn marks and melted appliances.
"That power Chimchar is capable of, I wanted to see it one more time, but he couldn't pull it out during the match. You could say I went too far, it might be true, but I wanted to give him one final chance to prove himself."
"So you let him get pummeled around for the entire match?!"
"Didn't you tire your Pikachu out with your strategy?"
Ash paused for a moment, his train of thought lost at those words. "That was different! Pikachu wasn't put in harm's way for it."
"Please, you had him keep taking those attacks or running around wildly to extend the match. If what I did was wrong, you weren't much better."
Ash scoffed at that, Paul shrugging his shoulders in annoyance with the boy. Ash just wanted him gone before Chimchar woke back up, the Pallet Town native not wanting Chimchar to have to see him right away. Fortunately it seemed like Paul had the same idea as he adjusted his bag.
"I don't have time for this," he muttered, his glare unable to unnerve Ash. "It's time for a real training session for my Pokémon. Plus I need to find a new Fire-Type."
He sneakers squeaked against the tiled floor, Ash watching him retreat down the hallway as the sound of a door opening caught both their attention. Ash's eyes darted right for the glass, Chimchar no longer on his bed as the wires attached to him sat scattered across his bed.
"Char! Chim, chimchar!" the Fire-Type pleaded as Paul shook his head.
"I'm not your trainer anymore so go on. Do whatever you please, I don't care."
The words seemingly killed Chimchar, Ash able to see the distress forming on Chimchar's face. Almost as if the Fire-Type hadn't known anything other than being a part of Paul's team. Ash figured the Fire-Type had spent most of his time with Paul, the words coming from his former trainer being unbearable for him. Chimchar ran for Paul but the boy ignored the Fire-Type once more even as he pulled at Paul's pant leg.
Ash figured the Fire-Type was pleading to go along. That he would get stronger and prove Paul that he was a valuable member of the team. And yet the boy didn't care. Shaking his leg, he loosened Chimchar's grip as the Fire-Type rolled backwards. Ash caught him before his head could land against the tiles, Chimchar looking up at Ash in disappointment.
"Hey, it's alright, Chimchar," Ash reassured the Fire-Type with a smile. Though Ash wasn't sure how to say anything else more encouraging. "I know you're plenty strong and any trainer would love to have you on their team."
Paul's footsteps continued again as the sound of Chimchar's tears drowned them. The sound flooding the hallway like an ocean as Ash rubbed the back of his head. That was when a thought finally came into Ash's mind.
"Why don't you come with us, Chimchar? We'll grow stronger together!"
The sound of Paul's sneakers stopped in accordance with those words. Ash noticing that the boy stared at him now as a smirk crossed his face. The boy wondered if perhaps Paul was daring him to try and train Chimchar after he failed. As if his style of training paled in comparison to Paul's. Ash didn't let it get to him, his eyes locked with Paul as no words were spoken. Instead Paul started to walk away once more, Ash swearing he heard a single "pathetic" coming from him.
"What do you say, Chimchar? Want to come along with us?"
"Pikapika!" Pikachu chimed in, the Electric-Type patting Chimchar's back.
Chimchar looked back and forth in confusion, a few tears starting to well up once more only to be turned to steam. Ash held his smile however, reaching backwards as he pulled an empty pokeball forward. Chimchar didn't say a word, his paw tapping the device as it shook a few times within his hand. The device continued to rock back and forth, as if Chimchar continued to struggle with the decision until it finally dinged and came to a rest.
"Welcome aboard, Chimchar," Ash stated. Though to his surprise, when he tried to open the device it failed to react. Instead the center button merely flashed red. Confused, he walked out to the front of the Pokémon Center where he found Nurse Joy.
"Um, Nurse Joy," Ash asked as he approached the woman. She was handing a pokeball back to Jimmy as the boy looked rather happy despite the television in the building showcasing how Gary managed to beat him. It was rather impressive as Blastoise tanked a Flamethrower head on before countering with Hydro Pump to cover the field in steam. Under that cover, Blastoise managed to get in close and land a Skull Bash while, Jimmy's Pokémon (whatever the strange yellow and green creature was) couldn't see.
The Johto native didn't appear to notice Ash however, taking his pokeball back and leaving without a word. Now alone again, Nurse Joy turned to Ash with a smile.
"So, Chimchar wanted to come along with me but now his pokeball won't open and it only flashes red," Ash explained as he pressed the center button once more.
Nurse Joy nodded at that. "How many Pokémon do you have on hand?"
"Including Chimchar now, seven."
"A trainer can only carry six active Pokémon on hand. You can mark the inactive one using your pokedex, but its pokeball won't open until you only have six Pokémon back on hand."
"That's a thing?" Ash asked, his hand shooting into his jacket for his pokedex. The device listed his Pokémon on hand, Ash surprised that it managed to keep even that information as the seventh member showed Chimchar, though a lock was over his name. "I just assumed you could carry as many as you want."
Nurse joy shook her head at that comment. The woman about to say more before being called away as another trainer walked in. This one wasn't one from the tournament, Ash wondering if they had just arrived to the island and noticed the new building. Either way, he closed the pokedex and made his way over to the phones.
"Maybe Professor Oak can help," Ash muttered as Pikachu nodded in agreement. Dialing in the number to the esteemed laboratory, Ash picked up the green phone beside him as the device dialed out. Seconds passed as the phone continued to ring, no answer coming from the other line until finally the screen before him lit up. Staring back at him wasn't the man he wanted, but rather Gary's sister.
"Ash? Aren't you supposed to be busy with your tournament?" Daisy asked as the boy scratched his cheek. He had hoped Professor Oak answered so that he could at least explain things better, but then he remembered that Daisy was the one who ran health examinations on the Pokémon that roamed the fields.
"Well that's the thing. I am, but it's not important right now," Ash awkwardly stated as he tried to adjust the phone in his hand to reach for Chimchar's pokeball. Once able to grip it, Ash showed it to the screen. "See, I kind of caught a new Pokémon but there's a catch I hoped you and Professor Oak could do."
"Shoot."
"Chimchar isn't supposed to battle for a while due to injuries he has. Could the two of you watch over him at the lab and make sure he's healing correctly."
A scoff came from the other end of the line as a smirk crossed Daisy's face. In that moment Ash felt she looked exactly like Gary, the smug arrogance running through their family. "Please, you shouldn't even need to ask. We are nearly family at this point with how good you and Gary are friends."
"You haven't really been involved in our friendship over the years, so I wouldn't call us "good friends"."
"Acquittances?"
"Eh, I'd go with rivals."
"Whatever," Daisy stated with a wave of her hand. Ash chuckled nervously from the reaction as she pointed at him. "Send Chimchar over whenever you're ready and we'll make sure he gets the best rehabilitation here. If you want, send him now and I'll give him a proper look over."
"This is gonna sound dumb...but how?" Ash asked, the sound of Pikachu sighing causing the boy to look at his partner with an apologetic look. The sound of laughter rang over the phone followed by an apology as Daisy pointed to a device behind her. It appeared to be a flat table with a spherical hole in the center as a half spherical dish sat a few inches above it.
"There should be a device right beside the phone you're using that looks similar to this. Place the pokeball on it and just press the button."
Ash nodded as he placed the capture device down onto the plate. It rocked slightly before coming to a peaceful rest, Ash knowing that Chimchar would be in better hands right now. With everything seeming to be fine he pushed the button as electricity rained down onto the pokeball. Ash jumped back from surprise at first, the pokeball engulfed in electricity as it seemed to be broken down and sucked up into the device.
With a confused blink he looked up the device only to see nothing resting within it, his ear hearing a similar noise only from the other end of the line. Looking to the screen, Ash watched as the device behind Daisy shot out electricity much like his own did. Only this time a pokeball emerged on the device.
"It looks like it got here just fine," Daisy stated as she flashed the pokeball to Ash. The boy nodded slowly as the girl placed it down onto a tray that already held a couple other pokeballs. "Gary wanted me to look over some of his Pokémon anyways, so I'll just add this one to my observations.
"I'll let you know if I find anything," she stated as the duo both hung up.
Ash leaned back in his seat for a moment, a look of relaxation washing over him. He had been so worried for Chimchar that he had failed to pay attention to much else. Though now he figured there would be time to relax until the tournament resumed tomorrow afternoon. Until then however, he figured it would be easy to relax as he poked his fork down into his meal.
His stomach rumbled from hunger as a few other students watched in slight annoyance. He had already eaten about three plates, but for Ash it wasn't enough to quench his hunger. Especially since he had plenty of food to eat while with Surge. The two having eaten several meals each night to replenish all the energy they spent during the day.
"Yer slowin' down," Surge stated as Ash found himself struggling to finish his fourth plate. The man laughed as Ash forced the fork into his mouth before going for another bite. "Listen, ya ain't exercisn' anymore so ya don't gotta eat like it. Ya gonna get fat."
Ash shook his head at that, Pikachu joining in as he too ate until finally the current plate was finished. Janine appeared unsurprised by his eating habit as she finished her plate of pasta before wiping her mouth clean.
"So, what exactly was your training like?" she asked, Ash smirking as he shared a laugh with Surge. "What's so funny?"
"Well, where do we begin? He left me abandoned on an island filled with wild Pokémon, he pushed me into a whirlpool. There was the time we climbed mountains and he tried to throw me off one..."
"How are you allowed around children?" Janine asked dryly. Surge merely shrugged his shoulders as Ash and him laughed once more at it.
While it had nearly killed him during their sessions, Ash had to admit that Surge's style of training helped him. Especially when it came to the whirlpool training. Without it, Wartortle wouldn't have managed to master Surf in the manner he had.
"You should join us next time," Ash stated as Janine shook her head in disagreement. Ash looked around the room now, the majority of students that had been here day one now gone as they left for summer vacation. The only ones who had stuck around were those still interested in the tournament. Though he had heard that both Saffron Community and the students from Pummelo already left.
"So what are you doing over the summer?" Ash found himself asking. Janine leaned back slightly in her seat as she stared at the ceiling fan. A small smile crossed her face as her finger began to copy the motion of the fan.
"Nothing much. Dad wants me to come with him to Johto so there's that. Unless a better offer comes along. Yourself?"
"I have no clue right now. All I can focus on is winning. Otherwise I'll have to repeat the year. And that means I'll have to pay attention in class since you won't be there to help."
"We wouldn't want you to actually learn, would we, Mr. Ketchum?" Ash laughed at the words as he thought they came from Janine. However, he was quickly corrected as a smack to the back of his head caused him to reach for the struck spot. Pain soared through the back of his head as his eyes began to tear up.
Blinking, Ash struggled to see through his blurry vision as the tears washed over his face. Wiping clean his eyes of anymore liquid he looked up at the older lady with a small smile on his face. "I'm just joking. I have no intention of losing."
"What about paying attention?"
"Can't promise that one."
Agatha shook her head at the response, her hair bobbing slightly as Ash swore he saw a smile resting across her face. He didn't have time to question it however as she walked away and towards Gary. The boy appeared to be in his thoughts or at least tried to as a cloaked individual sat next to him. While Ash knew it was just Blue, the former Champion was most likely in a disguise to keep himself from drawing any attention towards him.
"So what were we talking about?" Ash asked as his eyes remained on the Oak family. Without any surprise he watched as Agatha sat down with them, her cheer creaking slightly as her weight shifted in it.
"Summer plans," Janine responded as she pointed her fork towards him. Ash paused at that, his hand placed softly under his chin as his thoughts wandered.
Without meaning to do it, his eyes found themselves drifting towards Surge. The older man sat there unaware of the situation as the boy went back to his meal. Pikachu also nodded at the lack of words as the boy finally spoke up.
"Maybe see if Surge will train me over the summer. His stuff wasn't that bad."
"Sorry, Kid, no can do," Surge responded. It was soft and decisive, his arms crossed over his chest now as a smirk formed. A soft exhale of air exited his lungs as it seemed he pondered the next words. "Gotta get the Gym open again. League will get upset if I don't. Plus ya should go do somethin' on ya own."
It wasn't the answer he wanted but Ash accepted it nonetheless as he finished off his final dish. With a relieved sigh a few of the staff took his plates away while the boy thumped his full stomach. It shook slightly as the boy felt relieved though his eyes kept darting towards the nearby clock. He found himself checking the time every so often as if he were counting down towards his match with Cross.
Standing, his chair scrapped against the ground as Pikachu's head jerked upwards. Without any needed words they headed off, the only sound being that of Janine's feet. He had a feeling that the girl was following him now, but he didn't mind. And even if he had, he knew that he couldn't have said anything. With a slight glance behind him, Ash watched as Surge remained seated while Janine quickly came upon his side.
"Going for some training?" she asked.
Ash shook his head before scratching at the side of his face. Their bodies continued to walk forward, exiting the dining hall and out the main entrance as the night sky rained down upon them. His attention was trained until the night sky as it appeared like the stars danced above them. Almost like cheering fans in the stands.
"We just wanted to clear our mind before getting ready for bed," Ash admitted as Janine hummed out at that. The girl placed her arms behind her back, a small smile on her face as she tagged along. Ash was thankful for that, Pikachu leaping from his shoulder before walking slightly ahead of the duo.
Without any difficulties they exited the housing compound and made their way towards the stadium. His feet felt heavy at the moment, his thoughts trying to focus on the match coming but it was difficult for him. Instead it kept racing back to the situation before him, of his quiet night walk with Janine. He was fortunate to have met her, the girl helping him out during several times. Though he realized he hadn't properly thanked her for all the times she helped him through.
Opening his mouth, Ash was about to speak only for Janine's voice to interrupt him. Blinking, he turned towards the girl as her face beamed with happiness.
"You've improved so much since I first met you," she stated as Ash found himself nodding at the words. Looking at her under the stars he felt his heart racing for a moment as she bathed in the light dispensed by them. He'd never felt this way and yet tonight it was hard to look away.
"I mean, you're still headstrong and immature when it comes to class but as a trainer, I hardly recognized you today. It made me appreciate the time I've had with you. To be able to see your growth and all the work you've put in.
"It really drives me to keep up with you. I can't be falling behind, especially since I'm not content with how things are right now."
Ash nodded at that, the stadium now next to them as Janine leaned against one of the columns. Ash stood next to her, leaning against one as well. His hands rested behind his head as the duo watched out towards the ocean. The darkness making it feel like an unknown beast just waiting to strike.
"I probably wouldn't be here without you," Ash stated truthfully. He exhaled after the words before pulling his cap down. He had known it for a while that he'd be nowhere close to where he was now without his friends but to say it out loud felt odd. Not that he was embarrassed by it, but he couldn't help but feel his face heat up as he spoke them. "I'm grateful for it all. Even if I never say it, I don't think I could have made it that first semester without your help."
A small hum came from Janine as Ash dropped his hands to his sides. They waved back and forth as a breeze came through and pushed his hat up slightly. He found himself staring at Janine once more as she basked in the moonlight, as if it were washing away any of the unknown cast by the darkness.
"You say that, but it's probably the opposite," Janine spoke as the girl sighed out. It felt heavy to Ash, her shoulders now slumped as a forced smile sat upon her face. "I haven't been able to think about what school would be like without you. You're my best friend after all. Our training helped me reach new levels and now look at us, you've made leaps and bounds in your training. And I didn't even make it past the first round."
"Your match was great though! You had Jimmy on the run the entire time," Ash pleaded. In the corner of his eye he could see Pikachu playing with some wads of paper. The Electric-Type tossing them out once finished with them. "It was just bad luck to have lost like that. No one could have imagined Beedrill attacking in that manner."
"You always know to say the right stuff..."
"Huh?"
"Nothing. Just talking to myself," Janine replied. The girl took a few steps towards Ash before leaning against the same column as him. The boy didn't seem to mind but he felt his heartbeat pick up for a moment as he could smell Janine's shampoo. It wasn't the first time he had been close to her and yet it felt odd. It was a sensation he wanted and yet it scared him all the same.
"But something is definitely bothering you," Janine said. Ash nodded for a moment, his hand accidently brushing against Janine's hand as he pulled it away at first. The girl didn't react much to Ash's surprise as she apologized at first. Ash shook his head as he felt there was no need to apologize for it. "I may not be the best to talk about feelings and all that, but what's eating you up?"
Ash laughed at the words she spoke. Each one striking him as he should have known he couldn't hide anything from her. Adjusting his hat, Ash turned to face Janine as his eyes stared right into hers. It helped him relax as one final sigh escaped from his mouth.
"It's the match with Cross. I have a bet resting on it," Ash explained as he opened his jacket up. On the inside sat his feather as it shined brightly, the boy running a finger along it as Pikachu chirped happily about it. Ash however didn't feel the same way since it had brought quite a few problems upon him recently.
"If he wins, I have to give him the feather."
"Then don't lose." She said it so calmly that Ash blinked. He wondered if she held that much confidence in him or if it was just her underestimating Cross. The boy chuckled softly at the words as Janine raised her hands before her body, her face contorted into a serious expression as she looked ready to fight over what she was about to say. "You're much better than he is and there's no way you'll lose. Besides, I've seen you at your best and no one can beat you then. So tomorrow go out there and show everyone just what Ash Ketchum can do."
"But it's still Cross. He's like Gary where they've both seen how I am since before school. We were in the same school in Pallet Town."
"And?" Janine asked as she threw her hands behind her head. A smirk crossed her face as one hand moved back in front. It poked Ash playfully as the boy felt the nail dig into his chest. It didn't hurt. Not at all, and yet it left him with no response. His mind went blank as Janine stole any thoughts he had. "You've never let anyone stop you before regardless of the situation. Need I remind you that you battled a Zapdos after just one semester?"
"Yeah, I kinda did," Ash replied with a chuckle. Pikachu yawned as his voice carried itself towards their conversation. The boy smiled softly towards his partner as he walked over to Pikachu and picked him up. The Electric-Type looked ready to fall asleep, Ash wondering if now would be the best time to head back. "But I don't want to lose. Even if I tell myself I'll win, there's the worry of what happens if I lose in the back of my head."
"Listen," Janine said now as she moved towards Ash. The duo had begun their trek back towards their rooms, their feet trudging along the path. "Even if you lose your next one hundred battles, nothing will change. Sure, you'll have to repeat the year but just know that no matter what we would never abandon you."
"We?"
"Your Pokémon, family, friends...and me."
Ash nodded at her words as he wondered why she didn't include herself under friends. He kicked at a rock along the road, the object bouncing about as the housing area could be seen off in the distance. A few lights were on as Ash wondered how many students remained to watch the end of the tournament.
"Just promise you'll give it everything you've got, okay?"
"I always do."
"Just promise. For me?"
Ash sighed at that, the boy rolling his eyes for a moment. He stopped upon noticing how much it appeared to mean for Janine. "Right. It's a promise. I'll give it everything I've got."
"Good," Janine snickered out.
The gate to the compound opened up for them, the guard letting them in without any issues as they took one last look at the stadium behind them. Tomorrow would be the last day of this tournament as the semifinals would be during the day followed by the final match held at dusk. Ash was about to head back towards his room but something kept him from moving. Looking over his shoulder he saw Janine holding onto it with one hand. The other scratching at her cheek slowly as she seemed a bit red in the face.
"Listen...before you go...I kind of...want to...well," she stumped over the words as Ash turned to face her. He blinked a few times as Pikachu stirred in his arms. Though if he hadn't been holding his partner tightly, the next action might have caused him to drop Pikachu.
A warm sensation ran across his face as pressure was placed onto his cheek. Surprised, Ash had no response as Janine pulled her face away from his cheek, the girl looking rather red in the face as she twirled her fingers around each other.
"It's a way to show my support. Just know I'll always be there when you're struggling. So go and beat Cross!"
Ash started to say her name, but Janine ran off before he could. He was confused by the action, his hand touching the spot she had kissed as a smile began to form over his face. With a deep sigh he headed back into the building.
"Thank you..."
The words were drowned out immediately as he shut the door to the building. Off in the distance he could see Janine still walking away though she didn't notice him. Ash figured it would be best to not say anything to her at the moment as he walked past the cafeteria and towards his room.
Readjusting Pikachu, Ash managed to open his door and enter his room as he noticed the window opened. Placing Pikachu onto his bed softly, Ash closed the window as he could have sworn he had it shut before. With a slight amount of worry he locked the window before sitting on his bed, the clock opposite him reading that it was after ten at night now.
Despite his body feeling fatigued, Ash didn't feel ready for bed. Especially as he pulled the blankets down and slid under them, the materials being snug against his body. Pikachu snored lightly next to his head, Ash watching the Electric-Type's body rise and lower with each passing breath. And yet even that couldn't help relax him to sleep.
Giving up, Ash sat back up as he looked around the room. Nothing appeared out of the ordinary despite his window having been opened. He at first wondered if it had been a prank by possibly Mayaka and Surge, but after everything with Thad he doubted they would have done this. That was when he noticed an object that hadn't been in the room before.
Getting out of the bed, Ash walked across the small room to lift the wrapped object. It felt light and as he shook it he could tell it wasn't made of something that would shatter. Though he did notice a tag of sorts flying around as he shook the object, Ash catching it as his eyes tried to read it in the dark.
"Happy birthday," Ash read. His head now tilted as he wondered who would have given him this. Not many knew of his actual birthday at school and even then, Surge had already given him a present so it couldn't have been the Gym Leader. Knowing that he had to open it to try and get some clue, he ripped away the paper as a small figurine was hidden beneath it.
Ash gasped at the sight of it, the action causing Pikachu's ears to perk up despite still being asleep. He couldn't believe what sat in his hand as it narrowed the list down to a few individuals. Resting in his palm was none other than a new figurine of his father, though unlike the other one his arm was purposefully missing. Ash's eyes darted around his room to see if the person could have still been hiding but there was no one else.
With confusion, Ash placed the figurine down as the exact details made him realize just who could have given him this. Especially since they only had one meeting. Though he didn't say anything, not that anyone would have listened since h was alone and went back to bed. He looked up at the ceiling, the plain surface providing him with a blank slate to run his mind against until his eyes started to shut. But before his body finally allowed him to sleep, a few simple words trailed out of his mouth.
"Please watch us, dad."
"Welcome back ladies and gentlemen as our second day begins!" Romeo's voice echoed outwards as Ash sat patiently. The waiting room was empty now with the exception of the four semi-finalists, though it might as well have been empty with how silent the area was. Compared to yesterday Ash wondered if anyone would even speak a word.
His eyes looked around the barren room as they skimmed across each of his fellow competitors. Cross seemed rather content while Gary stood against a wall, his eyes closed as Ash wondered what was running through his mind. Especially since he had spoken to his father for the first time in a while the previous night.
"The first match will be underway soon enough as Cross of New Bark University will face off against Ash of Pokémon Academy. Unlike yesterday, this first round will be composed of a three-on-three battle."
The pokeballs on Ash's belt rocked slightly, Pikachu tapping each one playfully. Ash adjusted his hat with the action as he wondered what Pokémon Cross would use. He had a feeling that Incineroar would be one of them since it had been used the previous two matches. And he had a suspicion Lycanroc was a good candidate, but it was the remaining Pokémon that made Ash curious.
"Enough waiting around, you've all come here for a match and that's what you'll get," Romeo claimed as Ash lifted his head up. Pikachu scurried up his shoulder as the boy took a few steps forward. Off to his side Cross stretched slightly before he joined Ash at the entrance. The duo walked out to the field as Romeo reminded the audience of their feats from the previous rounds. To Ash's surprise they played highlights of the match on the screens around the stadium, a clip of his match with Ritchie going by as he took his spot on within the chalk outline of the trainer's box. His feet kicked at the dirt slightly, a cloud kicking up as he quickly made himself comfortable.
A deep breath filled his nostrils with the distinct smell of dirt, chalk and sweat as he dabbed a few beads off of his forehead. To his amazement, Cross appeared unaffected by the heat as he twirled a pokeball around his fingers.
"The first match of the semi-finals has officially begun!"
"Fearow, I choose you!"
"Skarmory, you're up!"
Both trainers tossed their pokeballs outwards, the two devices exploding with light as a gust passed through the area. Fearow shot upwards immediately as the Normal and Flying-Type scouted the area. Skarmory however appeared more patient, its feet planted into the field as Ash wondered what the deal with it was.
Seeing that Cross was content with waiting, Ash swept his arm to the side as he called for the first move. Pikachu crying in accordance with him. "Fearow, let's make things comfortable for us! Tailwind!"
The Beak Pokémon cried out in agreement, a strong wind suddenly passing through the stadium as it kicked at the dirt. Ash shielded his face for a minute until the dirt came to a rest, Fearow now gliding through the stadium with ease. The wind also managed to provide a moment of cooling for Ash, the sun not as harsh on his body now.
"And now let's get in there with Drill Peck!"
"Roooowwww!" Fearow cried out before diving straight for Skarmory. His beak began to grow in size, becoming elongated as the object started to spin rapidly. A slight screeching sound echoed outwards but was quickly drowned out by the wind. Tucking his wings inwards, Fearow increased his speed even more as Skarmory remained stationary.
"Sand Attack and go right into Steel Wing!"
Skarmory nodded, its wings shooting outwards as one dug into the ground. With a swift movement it kicked up the dirt around its body and tossed it into the wind. Fearow cried out slightly, his vision now obscured as Skarmory's wings glowed in a metallic fashion before taking to the sky.
Fearow lunged forward but missed the attack, Skarmory weaving around the sharpened beak before swinging its left wing towards Fearow. Ash and Fearow however were prepared, the former calling for a Steel Wing of their own as the two birds clashed. A few sparks shot outwards as they disengaged their attacks.
"Spikes," Cross muttered as Skarmory's body spun about. Ash watched as objects shot from the Steel and Flying-Type's body and planted themselves among the field.
Romeo began to explain something, but Ash was too concentrated on the field to listen. Fearow diving right in for Skarmory as his opponent spun about once more as more of the objects rained down. Smashing his wing into Skarmory, Fearow appeared to have landed a potent attack but the Armor Bird Pokémon brushed it off before circling back around.
Skarmory's wings quickly glowed a bright shade of blue as Cross's voice echoed around the stadium. "Air Slash!"
Skarmory screeched in agreement, striking forward with its wings as blue streaks of energy shot outwards. Fearow quickly maneuvered around the first only to be struck by a second. The blow exploded against his body, the Beak Pokémon beginning a descent towards the ground as a barrage of blades shot for him.
"Fearow, tuck yourself in and take off right before the impact!" Ash shouted, his fist shooting forward. Biting his lower lip, Ash watched on as Fearow pulled his wings close to his body and aimed straight for the ground. The streaks of energy were right behind his partner, the gap closing as he help faith in Fearow as the ground grew closer.
Cheers echoed around the area as Ash tried to drown them out. Fearow wasn't bothered by them however. In fact, Ash wondered if his partner enjoyed them as he quickly threw his wings outwards. Skimming along the ground, Fearow spun to the left as the Air Slash exploded against the dirt. Debris shot into the air as Skarmory's vision was now obscured.
"Now's our shot!" Ash shouted out happily. Fearow screeched in confirmation, his eyes glowing orange for a moment as he chased after Skarmory. "Laser Focus and then right into Drill Peck!"
It only lasted a second, but the attack clearly effected Skarmory as the Steel and Flying-type's voice cried out in pain. Fearow's beak struck the underbelly portion of his opponent as Skarmory rotated slightly, its own Steel Wing striking Fearow's backside.
"Amazing! By using Laser Focus, Ash and Fearow managed to land a critical blow on Skarmory. But even then Skarmory still held strong and landed a dangerous Steel Wing!"
Ash grimaced at Romeo's words, Fearow landing atop the dirt field as Skarmory landed opposite him. Cross stood there patiently, one hand in his pocket as the other rested lazily on his hip. The Pallet Town native wondered what was going through Cross' mind.
"How about we crank this up a notch? Is the warmup over?" Cross asked as the Tailwind came to an end. Ash blinked at the comment as his opponent pointed forward.
Skarmory took off in a heartbeat, his wings glowing metallic once more as Ash barely had any time to call for a counter. With his own Steel Wing, Fearow matched the blow head on before forcing Skarmory away. The Beak Pokémon took to the sky immediately as both himself and Ash watched Skarmory chase after them.
"Air Slash, now! Close the gap and then go in for Steel Wing!"
"Fearow, watch out," Ash called out. Fearow nodded slightly as the shades of energy shot for him once more. With them unable to get Tailwind off a second time, Ash noted how their speed had dropped tremendously. For the most part Fearow managed to avoid the Air Slash attack, but it was the sudden encroachment of Steel Wing that met his face.
With a quick slash of its wings, Skarmory slammed Fearow's face as the Beak Pokémon tumbled towards the ground. Fearow crashed into the field. Slow to get up, the Beak Pokémon was met with a cascading barrage of Air Slash. Each blast struck preciously against his body.
"Fearow, hang in there. Once we get our opening it'll be our turn to change the momentum."
Fearow didn't respond, Pikachu calling out to him as the Normal and Flying-Type rose back onto his feet. Ash wondered how much longer his partner could take this as Skarmory came flying back towards the ground with a Steel Wing.
That was when Ash saw an interesting detail. Fearow jumped backwards as he just barely dodged the attack. Skarmory missing its mark as it slammed against the dirt ground. It was unharmed however besides a few scratches.
"Fearow, let's take this back into the air."
"Please, you can't outmaneuver us," Cross stated as he pointed upwards. Both Pokémon dashed into the air, Ash smirking as he assured himself he hadn't imagined it.
"Cross, you better watch out for us. Tailwind!"
Fearow cried out once more, wind whipping around the stadium as Skarmory was forced to lower its wings. The Steel and Flying-Type appeared to be gliding atop the heavy winds while Fearow rode them to close the distance.
Both trainers shouted for a Steel Wing, the attacks clashing as Ash squinted towards Skarmory. The marks on its body were definitely getting bigger now as a few cracks were present. It would just be a matter of how long Fearow could hold out for.
"Now's out shot! Laser Focus!"
"Not again, Steel Wing!"
Fearow's eyes glowed orange, though they immediately dimmed as Skarmory's wing smashed against his head. Fearow tumbled towards the ground slightly, regaining his senses as he flew straight for Skarmory with another Drill Peck.
Flakes fell from Skarmory's body now, Ash watching as the cracks were noticeable for even Cross. His opponent spat in annoyance but said nothing, Fearow's beak lodging itself right into the original crack found on the undersection. Skarmory cried out in pain, a few bits of its armor falling to the ground below.
"So you figured us out..." Cross muttered with a large smile. If Ash didn't know what relied on the match, he would have thought Cross was having the time of his life. "Guess we should prepare for the worse. Spikes, once more!"
"Not this time, Drill Peck in the same location!" Ash punched forward with the command as Fearow darted forward. His body became a blur in the moment as the only thing that stood out was a trail of orange that passed his entire body. His beak grew in length once more, spinning with intensity as Skarmory's entire body shed off more objects. Whether they were its armor or not, Ash couldn't tell as Fearow connected with Skarmory.
His beak lodged itself once more, spinning rapidly as the momentum tossed Skarmory around. Fearow whipped his head downwards. The momentum of the movement launched Skarmory downwards, its body crashing against the ground in defeat.
"And that does it! Skarmory is down and Ash has taken the first win here. How will Cross counter to that?"
Ash held his breath for a moment as Cross recalled Skarmory. Fearow was panting heavily now as the Tailwind petered out again. Raising his pokeball to call back Fearow, the Beak Pokémon shook his head in a negative fashion. He wanted to continue. Nodding, Ash and Fearow watched as Cross' second Pokémon emerged on the field.
The familiar beast emerged as it stood on its hind legs, fur overhanging the front of its head as a howl erupted outward. Ash braced himself for Lycanroc but wasn't sure how Fearow would handle it in his current condition. Cheers rained down for Lycanroc as the clearly unknown Pokémon had become a fan favorite despite this being its first match in the main arena.
"Fearow, let's be careful. Start off with Steel Wing to see how they react."
"Sucker Punch!" Cross shouted. His own fist pushing forward.
Ash blinked as it felt to be over within a second. Fearow gagged from the impact as saliva shot from his beak, Lycanroc's hardened fist lodged into his throat. Fearow's wings lost their metallic glow as Lycanroc's attack continued.
Lycanroc's jaw began to heat up, Ash watching as flames enveloped the Rock-Type's face. Without a moment of hesitation the flames bit down onto Fearow's neck and exploded. Lycanroc emerged from it unscathed though Fearow was slow to get up.
"Pipi!" Pikachu called out as Fearow forced himself back up. His body was battered and bruised as a few streaks of fire ran across his feathers. Though he stood tall and proud.
"Rooooowwww!" Fearow screamed out once more, the wind picking up as a thud could be heard. Ash pulled his hat down slightly as Fearow appeared to be passed out. His body unmoving as Romeo made the call.
"It appears Fearow used the last of his strength to get a Tailwind off. Lycanroc's speed was not one to mess around with. Especially with that Sucker Punch."
"Thank you, Fearow," Ash stated as he recalled the defeated Pokémon. Fearow's pokeball rocked slightly in his hand as the boy placed it back onto his belt. Gripping his second choice, he tossed it forward. "Bulbasaur, I choose you!"
The capture device erupted in a bright light, the small Grass and Poison-Type landing on the field only for a slight explosion to take place. Ash wasn't sure what had happened until he remembered the objects that had rained down from Skarmory. He wondered if perhaps they had an effect.
"Saur," Bulbasaur muttered. He appeared mostly unharmed, just a few scratches on his body but nothing too serious.
"Let's not waste the opportunity Fearow gave us. Start off with Razor Leaf!"
"Bulba," the Grass and Poison-Type muttered. His bulb shook slightly as leaves escaped from it, the objects dancing atop the wind as they soared straight for Lycanroc. Cross and Lycanroc weren't worried, the former calling for a Stone Edge. His partner slammed a single fist into the ground as rocks shot up around him.
The Razor Leaf bounced off harmlessly only for the shield composed of rocks to strike towards Bulbasaur. The Seed Pokémon had no time to dodge as stones jabbed into his face and underbelly, the impact sending him airborne. Lycanroc howled out in enjoyment as a red aura surrounded his body.
Ash grit his teeth at that; he knew all too well that it had just increased his strength with a Howl. Bulbasaur managed to land atop the dirt field with ease as both him and Ash tried to figure out a counter to Lycanroc. However, the Rock-type was already atop them with a mouth of flames.
"Fire Fang, light them up, Lycanroc!" Cross called out. The flames exploded outwards as it appeared Bulbasaur became consumed by the flames. Dirt and stone whipped up from the explosion as it forced Ash to brace himself. Even Pikachu was knocked over from the explosion as he got back onto his feet.
As the smoke died down though, Ash smirked as he saw Bulbasaur still standing. His vines blocking the attack as they looked slightly burnt.
"With some quick thinking, Bulbasaur, manages to limit the impact of that Fire Fang with his vines," Romeo declared as Ash threw a fist forward.
"Razor Leaf once more!"
Bulbasaur nodded, his vines retracting as they were replaced with a barrage of leaves. Each one struck Lycanroc's body as cuts lined his skin. The Rock-Type leapt backwards to avoid the remaining leaves but Ash wasn't finished.
"Now Vine Whip! Catch him!"
Bulbasaur's charred vines shot out immediately, Lycanroc jumping away from one of them as the second wrapped around his arm. Bulbasaur flinched from the contact as the vines were still sore from the previous attack.
"Give him a whirl!"
"Not this time! Lycanroc, toss him!"
Ash stepped back from the command as Lycanroc landed on the field. Bulbasaur tried to throw his opponent but instead found himself flying through the air. His vines held tightly by Lycanroc as the beast pulled on them.
"I don't think so," Ash muttered, hands balled into fists now. "Use the momentum, Bulbasaur! Double-Edge!"
Bulbasaur didn't resist Lycanroc's pull any longer, his body now glowing golden as he soared for the Rock-Type. Lycanroc reared his own fist backwards as the object shot forward and lodged itself into Bulbasaur's body. It didn't deter the Grass and Poison-Type however as he landed against Lycanroc. The impact sent the duo rolling across the field, Ash's voice echoing outwards.
"Throw him!"
Bulbasaur jumped to his feet, the movement sending his vines in one direction as he whipped them in the opposite. Lycanroc's body lifted off of the ground only to slam back down into the dirt as it flew all over the stadium. The vines retracted back into Bulbasaur's bulb, the Seed Pokémon watching as Lycanroc dusted himself off.
"Now this is a battle," Cross called out, one hand running through his hair. Ash noticed the genuine smile on his face as Lycanroc shared it. Ash blinked at the words, Cross pointing forward as Lycanroc appeared to loosen himself up.
The started to die down now as Ash realized Tailwind had ended again. It also seemed that Cross and Lycanroc had been waiting for that, the latter rushing forward as Cross called for another Fire Fang.
He was faster than before or maybe Bulbasaur was slower Ash figured as their opponent bit down onto Bulbasaur's backside. Fire erupted outwards as Bulbasaur cried in pain, a barrage of stones lining up underneath him as he was shot into the air.
Bulbasaur landed with a soft thud against the dirt, his body now bruised and battered as he stood back up.
We won't last much longer like this... Ash thought to himself as the sound of Pikachu cheering entered his eardrums. He figured it would be best to try and go for it now while they had the chance.
"Bulbasaur, let's start charging up energy."
"Solar Beam I assume? We won't let that happen!" Cross shouted, his open palm shooting forward. Lycanroc dashed forward once more, Cross calling for a Stone Edge as the line of stones shot from the ground.
Ash was quick to counter, calling for Bulbasaur to dodge with assistance from his vines. The objects smacked themselves against the ground, Bulbasaur being lifted into the air while his bulb shined brightly. Lycanroc followed them however, his mouth on fire once more as Bulbasaur launched off a few leaves to try and slow the Rock-Type.
The Razor Leaf scrapped against Lycanroc as it did little to slow down the monster. His teeth sunk deep into Bulbasaur, both Pokémon crashing into the ground as dirt shot upwards. Ash struggled to see through the cloud of dust as the only seeable object was Bulbasaur's glowing bulb.
"Finish him!" Cross shouted as Lycanroc broke into a sprint. There was no sign of the attack being another Fire Fang as the Wolf Pokémon dashed forward menacingly. The smoke and dust began to clear as Ash made out a maniacal look atop Lycanroc's face. The Rock-Type was clearly ready to finish things off regardless of how it was done.
With his fist reared back, the Rock-Type continued to pick up speed while Bulbasaur steadied himself. Ash clinched his fists at this. He was unsure if the attack was fully charged yet, but they had no choice. Cupping his hands around his mouth he shouted outwards.
"Bulbasaur, Solar Beam now! Let 'er rip!"
"Saur!" Bulbasaur grunted. Ducking downwards, the Grass and Poison-Type pointed the tip of his bulb towards the crazed Lycanroc. The tip slowly opened up as the glowing died and quickly transferred right to the opening.
Lycanroc howled outwards once more as his fist soared through the air. The appendage slammed right against the opened bulb as it lunged into the seed. Bulbasaur grunting as he slid backwards. He held strong however, shutting the bulb so that it closed around Lycanroc's fist and trapped the Rock-Type.
"What!?" Cross shouted as Lycanroc failed to remove his fist.
Ash realized what Bulbasaur had done. By trapping Lycanroc like that he had made sure there was no chance at dodging. But by doing so he had also sealed his own fate. Before Ash could even utter a word, he was blinded.
Light erupted outwards as the explosion rocked the entire stadium. Wind kicked up once more as the Pallet Town native felt his hat fly into the distance, the sound of Pikachu tumbling over alerting him that others were affected as well. Dirt and stone crashed against his body as he was knocked onto his rear end.
"Unbelievable!" Romeo shouted out as Ash squinted through the bright light and flying debris. It appeared that both Pokémon were still standing, but Ash found himself unable to properly read the situation.
"I've never seen a Solar Beam be used in such a manner! By trapping Lycanroc's fist within his bulb, Bulbasaur made it impossible to expel all that stored energy. He turned himself into a walking bomb!"
The scene finally died down as Ash managed to see Bulbasaur collapsed off to the side. His bulb was smoking as burn marks sat along the tip, his body bruised from the explosion. Lycanroc wasn't much better as his arm was completely burnt, the appendage hanging weakly by his side as the burn ran all the way up to his shoulder. The Rock-Type stood strongly but one look told everyone he was down for the count. His eyes lacked any sign of consciousness as a gust of wind finally knocked him over onto his back.
"And both Pokémon are down!" Romeo declared as Ash and Cross both recalled their Pokémon.
"Great work, Bulbasaur. Sorry you had to end it like that," Ash said. The pokeball moved slowly in his hand as the boy swore he overheard Cross thanking his Lycanroc. He didn't question it however as he reached for his third and final choice.
"Time for you to show everyone just how strong you've gotten," Ash muttered towards his third pokeball. Across the field Cross had already made his selection, Incineroar standing proudly as the crowd cheered out for the Fire-Type.
Turning his hat backwards, Ash tossed the capture device onto the field as it exploded in a bright light. "Charizard, I choose you!"
A mighty roar pierced the sky as streams of fire followed suit. A large draconic creature standing on the field as Ash placed the pokeball back onto his belt. With a slight chuckle he looked at Cross, the boy appearing rather proud of Charmander's current form as a smile sat upon his face.
"So he evolved," Cross stated. His hands sat comfortably in his pockets, a lazy look on his face as Ash noted the body language. He appeared relaxed, as if he had been waiting for this the entire time as his shoulders hunched forward slightly.
"Yeah. Charizard put in a lot of work to get here. And we're both gonna show you the results of all that training! Flamethrower, go!"
Charizard roared in agreement, his mouth erupting with flames as they shot forward. Cross quickly countered with a Flamethrower of his own as Incineroar thrusted his hips forward. Streaks of fire shot from his belt, the two blasts converging in the center as they morphed into a sphere of flames.
With an eruption outward, fire shot in all directions. Charizard spread his wings wide as Ash called for a Wing Attack. The tips of his wings glowed white, a trail of light left behind as he rocketed through the previous eruption. Incineroar and Cross weren't ready as the attack sliced against Incineroar's left arm, the Fire and Dark-Type crying out for a moment.
"He's stronger than we knew him as, Incineroar. Don't take him lightly," Cross stated. The boy quickly swept his arm to side as he called for a Bulk Up. Incineroar nodded at the command, his muscles bulging as Ash called for Charizard to circle around for a second attack.
"Not this time! Darkest Lariat!"
Incineroar grunted as his arms erupted in flames, the Heel Pokémon grabbing ahold of Charizard as the second Wing Attack was stopped. Incineroar quickly spun around, the flames spreading across his entire body as Charizard was quickly consumed. The Fire and Flying-Type moaned out from the motion sickness though Ash acted quickly.
"Dragon Rage, force him to let go!"
Charizard didn't respond but the sight of a small ball of energy within the flames told Ash all he needed. The blast missed it mark, however, though Charizard had been freed. The Flame Pokémon flying back into the air as his Dragon Rage smashed against the outer wall of the field. Incineroar likewise stopped spinning as he waited for Charizard. Claws raised, Incineroar appeared ready for anything.
"And both sides are off to a hot start in this winner take all bout. Neither Charizard nor Incineroar appear ready to go down without a fight!" Romeo declared as Incineroar launched a Flamethrower into the air.
Charizard met the attack head on with his own Flamethrower. The two attacks exploded though Ash noted that Cross probably would have expected them to rush in again. Instead he called for another Dragon Rage. Charizard's eyes turned white for a moment, the tip of his tail growing in strength as a sphere formed within his mouth. Seconds passed as the attack shot through the smoke. But there was no explosion.
Instead Charizard was met with a shocking surprise as his blast was returned to him. Exploding against his face, the Dragon Rage expelled the energy held within and sent Charizard crashing towards the field.
"Right yourself, Charizard!" Ash shouted out, but it was too late. Incineroar was waiting for them as his body was wreathed in flames.
Lowering his shoulder, Incineroar slammed it into Charizard as the Flame Pokémon flew into the wall. Cracks formed as Charizard's body fell to the ground only to stand back up. Cross wasn't as pleased now, a look of slight annoyance on his face as Charizard released a roar of might. Fire shot upwards as it split clouds.
It was Charizard's way of saying he was just getting started. Incineroar matched the intensity as he rushed forward with arms engulfed by flames once more. Cross called for a Darkest Lariat as Charizard moved to the side of the first punch only to be elbowed in the face.
He stumbled backwards as Incineroar raced for him, Charizard able to buy a few seconds by tripping the Heel Pokémon with his tail. Incineroar stumbled from the action as it allowed Charizard to get airborne once more. Cross punched forward from that, a stream of flames launching right for Charizard.
"You're not getting away! Flamethrower!"
"Spin to the side and circle back around! Show them a real Flamethrower," Ash shouted as he matched Cross' action with his own punch. Charizard huffed out as he twirled to the left, Incineroar's flames just missing him, before darting back towards the field.
Flames formed around his maw, the heat being felt by Ash even down on the field. The streams of fire shot outwards as they engulfed Incineroar. Though the Heel Pokémon didn't seem bothered much as he held his own. Eventually the flames were expelled thanks to Cross calling for a Bulk Up. Incineroar looked even stronger than before as he leapt into the air.
"Quick, Charizard, get away!"
It was pointless though as Incineroar grabbed his tail. Charizard cried out from the sensation as Incineroar tossed him back towards the field. The Flame Pokémon felt his body smash against the dirt field, a few of Lycanroc's left over Stone Edge bits ramming into his body.
"Let's keep the offensive up! Darkest Lariat!"
"Charizard, slow him down with a Flamethrower!"
Cross chuckled at the command as Charizard rolled onto his back. Looking up at the sky everyone could see a spinning top of flames descend towards Charizard, but the Fire and Flying-Type roared mightily. Flames erupted into the sky as it slowed Incineroar's descent. The beast however still slammed into Charizard, a small crater now formed as dust settled all around the area.
"Charizard, can you keep going?" Ash pleaded. Charizard didn't answer as Incineroar rose over his body. A cough escaped from Charizard, his tail shooting out around Incineroar as it threw the Fire and Dark-Type across the field. Ash took advantage of that issuing a Dragon Rage.
The sphere was launched without any issues, erupting against Incineroar's body. The impact tossed Incineroar around slightly as his body tumbled across the field. His momentum stopped as his claws dug into the ground before he stood up.
"Picha!" Pikachu cried out as Charizard flashed a thumbs up towards the duo. Ash sighed out in relief as Charizard released another Flamethrower into the sky. The boy knew his partner wasn't ready to give up despite his fatigue.
"You've done good," Cross mentioned as Charizard snorted outwards. Ash couldn't sense any kind of trick in his words as his opponent ran a hand through his hair. "I figured you'd be better off with someone else. I just never expected it to be with Ash.
"I guess I should have thought someone like him was needed. Still, it kind of sucks I couldn't bring this strength out of you. You know?" Cross chuckled slightly as his facial features became serious once more. Ash readied himself as he could tell the match was just starting now.
Incineroar cracked his neck for a moment, his eyes narrowed onto Charizard as he lunged forward. Flames wrapped around his entire body as Charizard took to the sky to dodge. Incineroar followed him once more however, his body rocketing through the sky as he managed to strike Charizard's back. The Flame Pokémon cried out in pain as Incineroar landed back onto the ground, Charizard remaining in the air as he took a moment to catch his breath.
We'll never be able to win in a battle of strength. Or at least not with two Bulk Ups. We'll have to wear him down over time, Ash thought as he called for Charizard to get in close. Cross and Incineroar were waiting as a Flamethrower erupted from Incineroar's belt.
"Slice through it!" Ash shouted as the command shocked Cross. Charizard's wings glowed once more, the attack striking the Flamethrower straight on as Charizard flew through the small opening. Ash could see a bit of his body still effected by the Flamethrower, but the majority was safe. With exact precision he struck hard against Incineroar as the Heel Pokémon stumbled backwards.
"Flamethrower around his feet!"
Charizard wasted no time as the flames rained down onto the field. They showered Incineroar as the Fire and Dark-Type found himself trapped in a circle of flames. Cross laughed at the attack, the boy muttering how it would do nothing against Incineroar.
"Oh we know that. But we're not done," Ash stated as Charizard swooped back towards the field. "We just didn't want you running anywhere. "Seismic Toss!"
The crowd gasped in surprise at that, even Cross caught off-guard by such a command. It was their trump card that Surge recommended to them. With precision Charizard swooped right at Incineroar and grabbed ahold of the beast. His arms locked around the Heel Pokémon's torso as they took to the sky once more.
Charizard spun in countless circles as they raced back to earth, Cross unable to get a command out as Incineroar was flung right into the field. Cracks covered the dirt field as the crater from before shattered and grew in size. Dust and dirt shot up as Charizard stood over Incineroar.
It looked to be over now, Incineroar slow to move as both Ash and Pikachu were happy for Charizard. That was when he heard Cross' next command.
"Now let's grab him! Flare Blitz right into Darkest Lariat!"
Ash had no chance to counter or to try and have Charizard run away as Incineroar's arm stretched out and grabbed Charizard by the arm. He quickly had Charizard trapped in a full nelson as flames covered both of them. Charizard cried out from the pain only for it to be unheard over the spinning of Incineroar.
A tornado of fire engulfed the field now as Ash had no idea how to counter it. He could only watch on as the flames grew stronger until finally they died down. Though the sight before Ash wasn't what he wanted.
Charizard rested in the full nelson as his head drooped low. The flame atop his tail was also weak as it sputtered about. Bruises and burn marks lined his body as Incineroar tossed the body off to the side.
Romeo made his way close to Charizard, inspecting the body as he prepared to make the call.
"It appears Charizard is down for the count. That means Cross and Incineroar are the...oh wait! He's getting back up," Romeo stated as Charizard stirred slightly. He held his right arm tenderly as a few puffs of smoke escaped along with a cough. Ash could tell Charizard was forcing himself to continue at this point.
"Charizard, it's alright," Ash stated as he took a step towards the field. Charizard huffed out at that action but Ash continued. "You don't have to keep going. You've already proven yourself."
A stream of flames met Ash's face. The boy blinked for a moment as the fire died down, his face now burnt as Charizard's eyes told a different story. Ash felt ashamed for his words now as the determination within Charizard's eyes hadn't vanished yet.
"Right, sorry," Ash stated as Pikachu looked confused. Ash chuckled slightly as he returned to the trainer box. His arms raised before his body, Ash quickly pointed forward as Charizard roared out. "This means so much to you. It's your chance to prove yourself so we'll keep going as long as you want! Flamethrower!"
Charizard launched the attack off, Incineroar launching his own Flamethrower as the two attacks met head on. Just as they had the first time the two attacks merged together before exploding outwards. The sound of footsteps echoed around, Ash's eyes darting through the smoke as he tried to pinpoint Incineroar.
With a mighty roar the feline barreled through the smoke. His claws alit with flames as they reached for Charizard only to be met by Ash's swift call of a Wing Attack.
Claws struck against wings as both sides fought on until their clash ended in a stalemate. Incineroar forced to pounce backwards before Cross commanded a Flare Blitz. With his body wreathed in flames the Heel Pokémon dashed forward on all fours, a small trail of fire left behind on the field.
Charizard grunted slightly as the Fire and Dark-Type rammed into his body, a swift toss sending Incineroar away before he could follow up on the attack. Charizard took a deep breath as Ash commanded another Flamethrower. The fire shooting off as Charizard roared in approval. The flames clashed against Incineroar's body before retreating towards the ground trapping the beast.
"Consume those flames with Darkest Lariat!"
"Take to the sky!" Ash commanded with a sweep of his arm. Cross didn't counter as a gust entered the stadium. Spreading his wings, Charizard shot off for the air. Below them Incineroar spun like a top, the flames moving from his arms until they consumed his entire body. Quickly the fire tornado absorbed the flames that surrounded it as Ash smirked.
"Now Dragon Rage from above them!"
"What!?" Cross shouted in surprise.
Charizard flapped his wings mightily, picking up steam as he climbed the side of the tornado. Ash felt the heat of it consume his body as both himself and Pikachu wiped pools of sweat from their faces. He wondered how Charizard was handling the heat as his partner reached the peak of his descent.
Throwing his head backwards, Charizard built up energy as his tail flame enlarged. The top of his tail was completely consumed by the flame as a sphere built up within his maw. A slight whip forward sent the blast cascading down the inside of the tornado until finally an explosion rang out.
"Don't stop! Get in close!" Ash shouted. Despite being unable to see through the latest cloud of smoke, Ash heard Charizard's wings as the Flame Pokémon shot straight for Incineroar. A soft clash was heard though no one could see a thing until the smoke finally resided.
"It appears Charizard and Incineroar are locked into a stalemate!" Romeo declared as the two Fire-Types had their hands interlocked. Both sides pushed against the other as they tried to gain an advantage. Finally it was broken as Ash smirked.
"Sweep him off his feet with your tail and follow that up with Seismic Toss!"
Charizard roared out, his tail kicking up dirt as it struck Incineroar's feet. The impact startled the Heel Pokémon as he took a slight step backwards. It was all Charizard needed. With a heavy grunt he released his grip on Incineroar's claws and wrapped his arms around the Fire and Dark-Type's body instead.
Once in the air, Charizard held strong despite Incineroar's clawing at him. Scratches lined his body as his path took shape. The duo spun countless times in a circular motion as the crowd held their breath.
"Incineroar, break free with Flare Blitz!" Cross threw his arm to the side as flames erupted from Incineroar's belt. Quickly consumed, Incineroar increased the intensity of the flames though Charizard didn't budge. The Flare Blitz was proved to be ineffective against Charizard as he only held onto Incineroar even tighter.
Their motion quickly formed a ring of fire in the sky as Charizard only picked up speed. Once he felt their momentum was maxed out, he dove straight for the ground like a flaming arrow. Streaks of fire fell behind them as a roar powerful enough to pierce the heavens erupted from Charizard. A swift toss followed it up as the flames dispersed from Charizard's body. Incineroar continued to tumble like a flaming meteor until his body came to a stop thanks to the ground. The flames shot off of his body, dying down as the Heel Pokémon remained motionless.
Charizard landed softly across from his opponent, Ash looking over his partner as the Flame Pokémon looked exhausted. Before a word could be spoken, however, Charizard fell onto his knees as his breathing intensified. Sweat pooled around his face as it ran down and dripped from his snout. His eyes enlarged as Incineroar stirred slightly.
The Heel Pokémon pushed himself off the ground, rising onto all four as flames consumed his body once more. Ash and Charizard both prepared for what would come next as Cross called for a Flare Blitz. Instead a thud was heard as Incineroar's body finally gave out. Laying spread across the ground was Incineroar, his body unresponsive as Romeo made the call.
"And that does it folks! Incineroar is officially down meaning Charizard is the winner and the match goes to Ash! He'll be moving onto the final round to face either Gary or Assunta!"
Sorry it took a bit longer to get this chapter out. But hopefully it was worth the wait. Though, I'd like to point out that with this chapter finished, there are only two more remaining for Lessons. After that Ash's story will continue in the next installment, but we'll go over that at a later time.
As for the battle, I'm hoping it came out well with each one of Ash's Pokémon getting a moment to shine in the match.
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.