Whoa, 200k WORDS! Awesome! Never thought I would get this far!
I have been receiving PMs with inquiry that will I be doing a chapter with the Mossdeep City Gym. Don't worry, it hasn't slipped my mind. I'll put a small portion of it in the next chapter. The thing is Mossdeep Gym battle is a Tag Battle and not very easy for me to write. If I have it scripted by next week, I'll make a Chapter out of it.
I hope that answers the question.
Anyway, I can't consume enough excitement because this is the First Elite Four chapter I am writing. It's gonna be a whole lotta hardship. Also, the debut chapter of Ash's Dragonite!
Location: the Sea (the way between Lilycove City and Mossdeep City)
Ash's roster: Pikachu, Lapras, Sceptile, Dragonite, Goodra and Emboar.
Let's Begin!
The 'Flying Dragon' was a schooner of three hundred tons, and a fast sailer. Solidly built, copper-bottomed, very manageable and well suited for navigation between the fortieth and sixtieth parallels of south latitude, the 'Flying Dragon' was a credit to the ship-yards of Hoenn.
It was not defenseless, however, on the contrary heavily armed with precautions, as the vast expanse of ocean they sailed on was constantly disturbed by austral storms. But until today, never did the voyage had encountered a more outrageous storm. Total darkness prevailed as the dismal clouds overcast the caliginous sky and the wind arose, causing waves to tower over the helpless ship. The sailors were caught in a violent storm. Wingulls soared freely over the sky without a care in the world.
''Sir!'' the helmsman cautioned. ''A squall right ahead on 7 kms! We must shorten the sail immediately!''
''Awaiting Captain's orders, Mr. Wills!'' the first-mate answered.
''But sir, it's moving faster than that!'' the helmsman warned. ''If we don't act upon soon, it will be upon us on the beam.''
''Hold course!''
''Holding it Sir!''
Captain Drake had not walked upon the deck to meet such an unpleasant sight. Lifting his head up, he saw how, with no warning, total darkness had prevailed, engulfing the late-summer sunshine as the clouds got thicker and thicker. When a bold strike of the lightning enlightened the sky, revealing its silver hues in the moonlight. Little droplets of rain appeared on the wooden floors, the pure water infusing with the briny sea-spray.
The wind arose with force enough to send tall foam-topped waves - towering over the ship. The men stood there frozen, statue-like as their skin lost all heat and pallor; watching as the storm raged on...
''Turn the ship! Head for the land!'' the Captain bellowed, his voice challenging the storm itself.
Not in himself to challenge the will of the Captain, with all his strength the helmsman turned the ship-wheel, coursing the boat in another direction, followed by the mystery of the new route they took.
The weather didn't last. Aided by the ebb tide, the Flying Dragon had already lost sight of land when the violent storm rose. The navigator was fretting as this new route, dark and foggy, was beyond his geographical calculations. Fog like white wool, drifting past them in fleecy flakes that looked as if they had solid substance. The sounds of motors that should have been filling the air around; all seemed to have disappeared. In the first place, not a single iceberg was to be seen. No Pokemon, noting skimming under the boat. The variation of the compass became less, and the temperature began drooping down.
The immense curtain of vapour, spread over the distant perimeter of the horizon, resembling a boundless cataract falling noiselessly. Twelve hour later, darkness had still hung over the waters. The schooner still braved on, until one accomplished pirate sighted signaled the silhouette of land, on the telescope. The schooner took the direction of this island, whose snow-clad heights-formidable masses of ancient rock-rise to an immense 123 altitude through the fogs of the surrounding space.
Nevertheless, as these waters presented no danger, and there was nothing to fear from ice packs or drifting icebergs, the 'Flying Dragon' was able to pursue her route towards the Island comfortably enough. Great flocks of clangorous Prinplups and Piplups, breasting the wind and hardly moving their wings, passed them in the midst of the fogs, petrels, divers, halcyons, and albatross, bound landwards, as though to show them the way.
However, as they had neared their approach, it turned out to be no land, but the worst nightmare of a sea man.
''Iceberg!'' a sailor yelled frantically ''I repeat an Iceberg!''
The sailors rushed to and fro in a jiffy. The helmsmen were aided with strength of other men. Anchors were poured into the sea. The fog was beginning to lift itself and the ship came to a screeching halt minutes away before crashing into the giant wall of ice.
''Now who put an Iceberg in the way of my Ship!'' the Captain scorned in vehemence, his hands on his waist. Suddenly in a mad whirl of speed, someone landed on the deck of the boat, in a manner of acrobatics. The men cleared out to give the newcomer some space, hustling about his identity. The man picked himself up, and dusted his hands.
''Wow! Am I on a pirate ship?'' Ash wondered looking around. The uniform the men were wearing answered his question.
''Who are you and what is your business on this ship?'' Fitzwilliam asked, a bit hoarsely. Had he been a pirate, he would have held a sword on the stranger's neck.
''Oh, pardon me, sailor. The Name's AK and my business is with him!'' Ash dared with gusto, stretching a hand out towards Drake. ''I am here to challenge you!''
A long captain's coat billowed behind the Champion, its edges worn and tattered from years spent at sea. Arms folded across his bare chest and hat pulled low, the only portion of Drake's face that was visible was his bristling mustache, but even without seeing his eyes, Ash could feel the Champion's gaze boring into him.
Thankfully, Drake didn't let him stew for long, and his gruff voice boomed. ''This is no approach to challenge a member of the Elite Four! I need to week's prior notice informing me about the challenge!'' the Elite hollered, turning to return to his cabin ''We are en-route to Sootopolis City, where we shall drop you! You can bunk in the guest cabin.''
''Those rules only applies to victors of the Ever Grande Conference! This is an unofficial challenge straight from the Champion of Alola Region!'' Ash combated, voice raised a peak.
''Champion of the Alola Region?'' Drake stopped in his tracks. That place is known for Trainers with adroitness. The mystery of islands filled with Z Crystals was still left unexplored in Drake's career. Oh! The commitments of the League.
''What were you doing at the sea then?'' the Captain fumbled with moustache while speaking. ''I don't see your boat.''
''Okay, this is going to sound really weird, but I sailed to find a Kyogre.'' Ash plainly lied, shrugging his shoulders, hiding the fact it was all a ploy to challenge Drake all along. ''No luck yet!''
''Well, it is a rare occurrence to meet a Champion other than Steven,'' Drake ruffed. "Very well, we shall entertain ourselves to a three stage battle! Whoever wins two out of three will attain victory.''
''And what if I win three out of three?'' Ash quirked a brow.
''I suggest you step aside that overconfidence, son.'' Drake snarled ''Does anyone volunteer to become a judge in this battle!''
''I'll be the judge, Captain!'' a young boy stepped forward.
''Don't tell me we are having this battle on a boat?'' Ash scanned the deck, trying to figure out a reason to object.
''You have any other choice in mind, young man.''
''Aye, Captain.'' Ash laughed sheepishly, pointing his thumb behind his shoulder. ''Behind this block of ice is an island, where my Pokemon currently are. So you see, we can't have this battle unless we get there. Correct me if I am wrong, but weren't you looking for the nearest land. Well, I get you there and you and I will have our battle first. Quid pro pro!''
XXX
Owing, no doubt, to Ash, they were unable to discern Traversey Island. They anchored off the shore. The work of repairing and re-victualling went on briskly. The cooks began to whip up something ordinary to eradicate the starving of the crew members.
They island they were on was a league in circumference. Best to ignore a scout. Ash and Drake stood opposite each other, on the shore of the island. Pikachu was bouncing off Ash's shoulder. The crew member, who elected to be the judge, took his place on the sidelines. The rest of the crew members seated themselves on the sandy floor of the beach, as one could not divert their attention on anything else. The only Champions they had seen Drake battle ever was Hoenn's own Steven Stone and Kanto's Lance in an exhibition match. But this guy was a new comer. No one would know what he'd pull off.
Dragons. Long touted as the strongest pokemon type, it was no surprise that the reigning Champion in not one, but two regions was a dragon-type master. They lived up to their accolades by being the toughest type to successfully train, which made it even more difficult to topple a full team of dragon pokemon from the highest pedestal. If someone worked hard enough to become the top trainer with a team full of dragons, they wouldn't relinquish that title so easily. There was a very good reason the grizzled veteran held the top spot of the League for so many years.
The Elite Four were strong trainers in their own right, but it was clear that this battle would be on another level entirely. So this was what it was like to be in the presence of a Champion.
''This is a best two out of three exhibition match between the Elite Four Drake and Champion of Alola, AK! The trainer who wins two rounds will be the victor of this battle! Substitutions are barred, and there will be no time limit! Therefore, choose your Pokemon!'' the referee brought his hands down, signaling the battle get underway.
''A Champion has a higher authority over an Elite Four, and so-'' Ash began, lobbing the first Pokeball forward. ''And therefore, I should let you know what you're about to face. Come on out, Sceptile!''
The light from the Pokeball grew arms and legs and materialized into the Forest Pokemon, revealing Sceptile into presence as light glittered out of existence. Sceptile stood, tall and proud, a thin reed clenched between his hidden teeth, as the grass type briefly stretched. What didn't go unnoticed was the green bandana fastened around Sceptile's neck with a small spherical Mega Stone attached to it.
''A very spectacular choice, indeed'' Drake remarked, producing a single pokeball from his coat's pocket. ''Let's go Altaria!''
Drake's Altaria emerged from the subsequent bright light and squawked into the air, making the crew murmur with intrigue. While Sceptile did remember being pummeled by the Pokemon, Altaria had no recollection over hundreds of Pokemon she faced over the years. But one gaze at Sceptile said it all. It was being presented and it looked tough enough, even if it was a grass type. Challenge accepted.
''Oh I really despise that bird,'' Ash groaned. It was the fifth Altaria they were battling.
''Pika..pi…''
Drake's chin tilted upward, and for the first time, Ash caught a glimpse of the man's formidable gaze ''I have already foreseen your battle strategy, young lad. With an intention to Mega Evolve Sceptile into a dragon type, this could prove a threat to my Pokemon. But the question is, how much do you understand your own Pokemon? If the bond between you and your Pokemon is not strong enough, you will never prevail over me.''
''I'll answer everything in our Battle, Whitebeard!''
Eyes alight and jaw set, he met Drake's stare with his own, and the two trainers stood frozen for only a moment before the Champion's mustache gave the smallest upward twitch.
''Moonblast!'' the elder called out first.
The Humming Pokemon flapped her wings, quickly taking to the skies as her form began to glow, taking on a salmon-pink shine. Throwing her head forward, she unleashed the lunar energy towards the ground. By the time the ground was rippled through, there was no sign of Sceptile. Beady eyes scanned the beach, finally spotting it standing on a rock. She didn't relent, though, spraying a continuous stream of celestial energy as the opponent scaled the rocks to the floor, jumping from one targeted location to the next.
''It must have be using Detect,'' Drake mused.
The more Sceptile jumped, he kept betraying the boulders behind him as they were blasted into smithereens. Sceptile judged his altitude to be a bit too great for an effective head-on attack, but needless to say, that wouldn't stop the speedy grass-type. Perfectly utilizing the palm tree, he quickly leapt onto a boulder adorning the giant tree, jumping from one height to the next before launching himself at Altaria.
''Sky Attack/ Dual Chop!''
Blurred lights, green and blue, alit the Pokemon, and the combatants crashed. Fiery beak collided with the remorseless claws. The aerial clash made its intensity known with a booming shockwave, forcing everyone to guard himself from a gust of wind and dust. The two broke apart moments after, allowing Sceptile to fall to the ground below, skidding before coming to a halt. Altaria pulled back in the air, letting out a chime. So far, the two seemed evenly matched.
''Talk about power….'' One crew member commented under his breath, marveling at the strength that had been displayed so early in the battle.
''Continue with the assault!'' Drake yelled.
''Leaf Storm!''
Each of the seeds upon his back lit up in succession, gradually charging the powerful attack. But, Sceptile wasn't fast enough, shown by yet another torrent of beam that threatened to swallow Sceptile. Of course, he wasn't going to take that sitting down. Powerful legs sprang the grass type into the air above, completely avoiding the peril. By now, he had found the opportunity to attack. The Forest Pokemon let out a cry, letting loose a potent flurry of energized leaves that headed straight for Sceptile's winged adversary.
''Dodge!''
At the last moment, Altaria managed to swoop out of the way of the blast, narrowly avoiding what could have been substantial damage. Cycle of leaves pummeled into her side, razoring through. The dragon/flying hybrid mewled out in pain, hovering uneasily before managing to regain her position in the air.
''Moon Blast/ Leaf Storm!''
The dragon above opened her mouth wide, gathering light from the skies, before launching a gleaming streak of light towards her opponent below. Sceptile responded in kind by countering with its own powerful move. Each of the bulbs on his back lit up brilliantly, quickly gathering energy that culminated in a brilliant spiral of shining leaves, colliding directly with Moonblast. The powerful winds behind Leaf Storm managed to push back Moonblast quite a bit…
As climactic as the struggle was, though, Sceptile was losing ground. His typing just wasn't cutting it. The two poured more power into their attacks, lighting the battlefield with brilliant splendor, sending leaves and geographical projectiles every which way. Finally, the attacks erupted, going off in a deafening explosion. Smoke was thrown across the shore, crossing Ash and Drake with an unpleasant wave of heat.
''I know just what this battle needs,'' Ash frowned, tapping into his Key Stone. The stone pulsed with power and detected Sceptile nearby. ''Sceptile, Mega Evolve!''
The arc of light from the Key Stone was greeted with the Sceptilite under the Forest Pokemon's neck. Rainbow lights wrapped Sceptile, allowing shadows to pass through as changes began. The crests on Sceptile's head became sharper, and the leafy blades adorning its arms grew in size to become stronger. Plates of leaves formed across the grass-type's chest and its tail became more defined as a long, sharp point formed on the end.
An intricate symbol appeared above Sceptile's head as the Mega Evolved Pokémon stepped out of the dying light, barking a dangerous grunt that radiated with his newfound power. The debris soon began to clear, Drake, with his arms crossed over his body. One eye opened, finally, free of the sting of the aftermath. The dragon above was marked with a few burns and scratches, still raring to go. But things had just got tough for her.
Drake squinted. He'd seen enough of Ash's battling style to be mistrustful of whatever he was setting up. ''Altaria, Sceptile is more powerful than before!'' Drake cautioned. ''Use Draco Meteor!''
And, Ash had seen enough of Drake's battling style to know better than to leave Sceptile wide open for an attack like that. ''Dual Chop!''
The blades lining Mega Sceptile's arms churned with green energy, curling into scythe-like blades. Sceptile pitched forward. As Altaria stilled on the sky above, already having set off the initial ball of draconic energy, Sceptile began trying to ramp up speed. As the hazardous draconic fireworks began bursting over the battlefield, Sceptile blitz through the all, slicing them into pebbles. Humans below wouldn't see through Altaria's vision from sky above, but it seemed as a green blur just zipped past where every draconic meteor was to drop. Sadly, the meteors touched the ground but only as rubbles.
But keeping track of the Sceptile was hard and confusing. For a moment he'd disappeared.
''Watch out!''
The Humming Pokemon sensed the Forest Pokemon leaped behind her. How did he get here so fast?
Each pair of leaves adorning its forearms seemingly merged into one, taking the shape of a shining scythe of natural energy. Both shone with great radiance, clearly powered up by Mega Evolution. "Sceeeep... TILE!" He cried out, slicing Altaria on the back with both blades, overcoming the flying type with remarkable speed.
''Sky Attack!''
Still reeling from Dual Chop, Altaria wobbled and charged to meet her foe, surrounding herself in a destructive blaze. Drake knew while Sceptile was airborne, Ash would take extra precautions to make a safe landing, and the Captain would exploit just that. Altaria curved all the way along, before zooming right into Sceptile's torso, eliciting a painful yelp.
The descend sent the Mega evolved Gras type, plummeting on the sandy ground below, raising a curtain of sand. While Altaria accomplished what she had to, she once again soared herself in the air. Sceptile, however, wasn't so lucky. His arms were crossed over his chest, one eye wincing from the impact. He was covered in burns, and body trembling slightly from the damage he'd been dealt.
''It withstood a super effective move like Sky Attack?!'' a young member gawked.
''Wow! Sceptile sure is strong.''
''I can say I am sure impressed by the Sceptile's athletics. You have trained it well,'' Drake complimented. ''The timing of switching your attacks, and using Speed as an advantage. Your ability to think fast. Certainly, trainers like you are very rare.''
''I don't wanna hog the attention,'' Ash brushed a finger under his nose. ''But yeah…''
''But how will you escape this? Altaria, Perish Song.''
"aaaltaaaa~" the dragon type called, a heart on her chest as she belted out the melody. Sceptile couldn't evade the tunes as they settled themselves into the atmosphere. The soothing resonating sonar waves were sweet to listen too, but a nuisance too. While the user could sacrifice ifself, it also gave a target the deadline to finish this battle within three turns.
''Another reason why I hate that bird,'' Ash grimaced. ''Dual Chop!''
''Moonblast!''
The artificial moon Altaria had restoring within with dropped where Sceptile was, the latter cleanly dodging it, while his hands replenished once again with the draconic glow. Sceptile sprung forward, once again arm drawn back.
''Never give up attitude…Hmmmm,'' Drake surmised. ''Draco Meteor!''
''Use the meteors to get closer!'' Ash shouted, counting on the grass type to stage a powerful attack.
When the orb burst into several Draco Meteors, Sceptile braced himself, knowing this was a caper he had to do for Ash. Ash trusted him, and he trusted Ash. His feet felt the brunt of the residual heat of the meteors, as he leaped upon each one of them. This way, he drew closer to Altaria.
''Is he crazy?''
''This is suicidal!''
''A high risk you are taking young man!'' Drake hollered.
''I wouldn't be a Champion if not for any risk,'' Ash grinned ear-to-ear. ''Now, dig your claws in that thing!''
Sceptile quickly sprang into action, remarkable speed quickly closing the gap between the two.
Slice…
Slice…
Slashing, cutting deep into Altaria's chest, Sceptile soared past it, flipping to the ground, as his arm hummed with the power of Dual Chop. Altaria only twitched for a second, before her flight was disoriented.
''Sky Attack! Show 'em!'' Drake howled.
The same angry veil surrounded the Humming Pokemon once more, her powerful wings launching towards Sceptile. This has been going on for too long! Ash watched in anticipation as Altaria came swooping down, her biding time finished. Ordinarily afloat and elegant, the dragon type had become a crimson missile, targeting Sceptile with Braviary-like precision.
''Why isn't he making a move?'' one sailor thought aloud.
''don't tell me he's….using Captain' s style…''
''Detect!'' Ash revealed his mischievous eyes.
Fighting instinct raised to a peak, Sceptile read Altaria's movements as if she was in a slow motion. Spinning around Sceptile prepared while Altaria squawked for brakes as she lost control of flight as she drove through the large tail of Sceptile. She went toppling off the floor, unable to regain her bearings.
''End this with Frenzy Plant!''
Eyes locked on Altaria's struggling form, Sceptile retaliated. Sceptile tore the battlefield, breaking away for the deadly roots that shot upward. Still catching her breath from the Dual Chop fiasco, Altaria was perfectly prone to being covered by the roots, disappearing from sight for a moment.
Drake bit, only watched on impassively, waiting impatiently for his Pokemon to return to his sights… and when the bird did, she was out cold.
But that wasn't all. Sceptile heard a mysterious chords of tunes in his ears that nobody else could. Slowly, his energy began to drain, and he was back to his self-original form. Though heavily breathing, the reptile seemed to have no stamina left in him. Perish Song had played its cunning effect. Glancing at Ash an apologetic look, Sceptile collapsed, swirl in eyes.
''Damn it…'' Ash bit, returning Sceptile to his Pokeball. His voice was gentle, but his nerves were returning in full force. ''I was careless there, but wonderful. If it weren't for Perish Song you totally owned Altaria, my friend. Take a long rest''
Drake, however, merely kneeled down beside Altaria, whispering something to the cotton-winged bird before returning her, nary a smile to be seen.
The judge examined hi words before declaring. ''The first round is a tie. Therefore, the victor of this battle shall be decided in the next battles. The trainer who wins both of the next rounds will the winner. Trainers, please choose your next Pokemon.''
Drake's mustache twitched downward as his other hand left his pocket, Pokéball in hand.
''Time for my tie-breaker!'' Ash readied his next capsule, enlarging it. ''Goodra, I choose you!''
The tall, pudgy Pokemon appeared with a quake in front of Ash, eliciting a rather wet bubbly growl, as if gargling on water. ''Gooo…''. That was odd, Ash swore he heard the release of Drake's pokeball. Sitting stout on four legs and lacking any distinct wings at all was Drake's second pokemon. The only dragon-like feature he could see was a pair of fierce eyes peering out from deep within the fused plates of its massive armored shell.
That Shelgon had to be a powerful pokemon, or maybe the same Ash and Pikachu faced before. He just hoped he could relay that information to Goodra before his dragon got too cocky. At least they held the being the powerhouse this round.
This time, Drake's grin contorted, growing in width and height. ''A Goodra! I had seen one ages ago. A docile yet resilient opponent.'' He threw a hand forward. ''Iron Defense!''
Goodra's eyes didn't unnerve from where Shelgon was hunkered, all the while keeping a keen eye on the grounded dragon type. Shelgon gave a quiet grunt and curled in on itself to raise its endurance, but otherwise didn't move at all.
Bringing a hand to his chin, Ash muttered to himself, "They must be planning something…Goodra, they will play this defensively. So, be ready.''
''Goo…'' Neck craned forward and stubby arms spread, Goodra poised, ready to react. But still the only thing the Shelgon did was raise its defense once more, prompting an angry scowl from Ash.
Maybe Drake was playing mind games to try to trick him into overthinking things? Just like last time…so Ash won't fall in the same trap twice. Hand balling into a fist at his side, Ash felt his own impatience rise to the surface. They had wasted two turns waiting for Drake to play his hand, and the raven haired Trainer wasn't going to wait any longer.
''Power Whip!'' Ash growled.
Muscular retractable horns took a purple glow, raging for the still mid-evolved dragon. Even as the vines drew near, Shelgon still did not bother to run, or hide, or even make an attempt at all to dodge the blow. It ended up being whiplashed right across the face.
''Dragon Breath!'' Finally, Drake made a call.
Ash's eyes went wide as a fiery glow began to churn from deep within the opening of Shelgon's armor. ''Dragon Pulse!''
The roar of flames drowned out most of Ash's shout, but Goodra didn't need any urging to avoid the tongue of draconic torrent that shot from Shelgon's mouth. Neatly using the Power Whip in use, Goodra flooded them with strength, smashing them into the sand below him. Resisting the surface, the Dragon Pokemon vaulted himself into the sky.
Green mystic flames licked at his retreating vines, and he hissed. Once in the zone of safety, he poured the draconic aura into an explosive violet blast, and delivered a direct strike to Shelgon, but instead of its plate armor giving way or sending the dragon tumbling, Shelgon didn't budge an inch.
''Back-to-Back Iron Defense,'' Ash grit.
''Flamethrower!''
Before the dust even settled, Drake's hand came to bear, and with a swivel of his forearm, Shelgon sprung into action. Pivoting, flames began to dance from its mouth, and before Goodra could retaliate, the jet of flames doused both him and the surrounding rocks in fire.
''Power Whip!''
But the attack was short lived, as two vines of grass energy shot from the center of the flames, striking Shelgon across the face. The dragon winced from the glancing blow, giving Goosdra the respite he needed to burst from the molten rock and stagger back to his feet.
Ash paled as he took in the condition of his pokemon, and even though Goodra's gaze was alight with rage, he panted heavily while trying to ignore the pain from the blackened scorch marks that pockmarked his body. As Goodra wavered where it stood, Ash's jaw clenched as the midsection came into view.
But from the way Goodra leered at Shelgon, it was clear that he had no intention of giving up, Ash shook off the feeling of unease in his gut and commanded his dragon with a sweep of his hand. ''Rain Dance!''
''Goooo….draaaaaaa!'' the dragon threw his head back and wailed into the dark clouds hovering above them. The skies overhung with a blanket of grey. The rain came in waves, splattering across the pavement. The chilly wind cut through air, and the sailors hurried away at a distance. Ash and Drake remained, soaked. Water streamed down Ash's hair, down to the neck.
Goodra was the only one gleeful, and overjoyed.
Wordlessly, Drake swept his arm downward, and Shelgon nodded. ''Iron Defense and Double Edge!''
Gleaming into a metallic armor, the stout little dragon shot forward at a speed that couldn't evoke any caution. Sluggardly, it just plodded forward, it threw itself at Goodra. Ash didn't hesitate, in fact chose to be the opposite. Goodra, with wide arm open took the brunt of the incoming crash, only powerful enough to let him skid back a few feet. But this was a topsy-turvy move.
Shelgon was one left covered fully body coated in infuriating slime! And if that wasn't insulting enough, it had just bounced back that large belly back to the fours of its feet.
''Power Whip!''
Cracking one eye open, Shelgon looked up just in time to see Goodra appear in front of it, horns raised to strike.
''Double Edge!''
Goodra's horns smacked nothing but thin air as Shelgon pulled its own vanishing trick, disappearing in the blink of an eye. Goodra crowed as he cleaved a hole through the beach floor, and could only swivel his head in confusion trying to figure out how Shelgon could have vanished from right under him.
Ash, too, had missed just how Shelgon had escaped, and in shock he looked to where the Captain stood, arms crossed with an easy stance. Before he could get in a word, Drake's eyes slid skyward, and Ash found himself following his gaze yet again.
Just reaching the peak of its jump was Shelgon, tightening its body for another crash.
Still gaping at how such a heavy, clunky pokemon could leap so high, words failed Ash as he watched helplessly as the dragon lowered its head and plummeted earthward toward the equally stunned Goodra.
''Bide!'' Ash called, throwing a hand forward.
Shelgon's headbutt landed with a thunderous collision that left both pokemon in a heap. Its rotund body deflecting most of the impact, Shelgon rolled from the pile until it was back on all four legs, and with a grunt it turned back to regard the crater it had left after piledriving Goodra into the dirt.
The burst of the rubble subsided, and Goodra as revealed, snickering! Drake's moustache twitched, peering the Pokemon outlined in a crimson aura. Hues were settled on Shelgon, taunting it for the failure of the last move.
''No way, they could have endured that!''
''It's been a long time since I have seen Captain on the ropes.''
''And now Fire!'' Ash punched forward.
Answering his trainer's cry with one of his own, vicious blast targeted Shelgon. Knowing it won't be possible to knock Shelgon's possible with just Bide, Ash followed with another move.
''Dragon Pulse!''
Shelgon barely had time to recuperate from the beam of Bide, before it was sent flying by the violent swirl of the move Goodra had in this battle, that threatened it. The force of the Dragon Pulse sent Shelgon bouncing back towards Drake. Legs waggling helplessly, Shelgon could only cry in dismay its eyes spun dizzily, and it struggled to right itself. But before it could even get two paws to the ground properly, Shelgon dropped back to its side, unconscious.
''GOOOOOOOO!'' The dragon's victory roar cold have echoed throughout the island. Ash lowered his hand from where he directed his partner's finishing strike, taking pride in his Pokemon. Standing poised, both trainer and pokemon turned, waiting for the referee's decision.
''Shelgon is unable to continue! Goodra is the winner, which means Round 2 goes to the Champion, AK!'' the young man lowered his hand to Ash's side of the field.
Twin beams of red light flashed into the fray, one returning Shelgon, and the other recalling Goodra.
Ash certainly hadn't expected Drake to look surprised, but the last thing he expected was for the elder to be grinning. It was a feral thing, teeth bared beneath his bristling mustache, and Ash swore he caught a glimpse of a twinkle in the old sailor's eyes.
"Now that's more like it. No battle pushes me to the extent, where I have to reveal my ace. " said Drake, sliding a new Pokéball from his pocket. His voice was rough, but Ash could feel the excitement fairly oozing from the Elite's words. '' Salamence, you're up!''
The ball barely left Drake's hand before it exploded open, and the bright red wings of the former Champion's most powerful Pokémon sliced through the sky. Pikachu's gaze slid up to regard the fearsome dragon who circled overhead only once before turning a glare downward, affixed to the opponents.
Ash, meanwhile, breathed out a sigh of relief. ''There's only one Pokemon I have right now best suited for this job.''
Pikachu looked up, certain he knew what Ash was thinking. "Pika?"
"Yep. We're gonna use him, buddy."
The trainer from Pallet winded up, chucking last metallic capsule in his grip. ''Dragonite, I choose you!''
Wings spanned. Tail smacked hard on the shore. Dragonite barked upon its release, galring at the fierce looking dragon above it. It only took Salamence a brief second to realize its intimidation tactic had been foiled, and with a mighty roar, it pumped its wingsThe match-ups had already been decided based off the angry scowls of the dragons. The only wait to start this showdown was the first command.
''Well thought and assembled roster you have presented, AK,'' Drake remarked. ''I am glad of turn of event that led us to you. Mighty impressive.''
''Likewise…'' Ash grinned.
Both males stared at one another. Ash had a higher stake in this battle. If Dragonite lost, then that would mean he would have to fight a golden round, but that would not be necessary. In terms of strength, Dragonite was no less than the mightiest of his rosters. The pseudo-legendary was trained by Charizard in aerial battles and Garchomp to power up dragon type moves. And no way, Dragonite would let them down.
"You ready, AK?" Drake smirked, adjusting his cap.
"Ready!" Ash attested.
"I'm happy to hear it!" the Captain beamed, from across the field. "Because I want a battle with you guys, like no other!" He stood with a wide stance, pulling a closed fist behind him, unlocking open a Key Stone. It was almost impossible to locate a Salamencite from the ground below. The stones responded to one another, and Salamence began transforming. When the lights faded, Salamence had become a glider version of itself. Powerful and terrifying than before!
''Dragon Dance!''
Spinning itself into a twister, Dragonite too began to prepare itself for this barbaric battle.
''Hyper Beam!'' the trainers yelled alike.
Dragonite and Mega Salamence launched a heated assault. Both met halfway, exploding into a roaring wall of explosive and smoke. Neither stream pushed beyond the other, equally matched.
"Dead even…" Fitzwilliam's brows furrowed.
"Dragon Tail!"
The shrouds parted for Salamence, who charged through the heat with elongated Tail.
''Avoid that with Dragon Dance!'' Ash ordered.
With a flap of his wings, Dragonite avoided a slash from the ferocious dragon. The frustrated dragon grunted, leaping after Dragonite to slash at his chest, once more. It found no resistance, the second strike missing. This was only fueling Salamence's irk and its rampaging nature. And enjoying it was Dragonite, taking turns of loops in the air.
"He's so fast!" a sailor gawked, his head tilting back to keep the two pokemon in his sights. "Salamence can't land a hit!"
''Good,'' Ash encouraged. ''Now, Thunderpunch!''
Dragonite soared, thundering for the Hoenn Counterpart, hand ready in an electrically charged chop.
''Zen Headbutt!'' Drake countered.
Dragonite roared, smashing his fist into Salamence's head. He felt a sudden rush of adrenaline, just as he felt the dragon's skull rattle. Crackling fist met skull in a loud crash, resonating all over the sky. It was a war between the two Pokemon, and none seemed to back. A tussle between the two powerhouses was a rare occurrence for the sailors, frequent on the waters. The struggle ended with no victor, as both Pokemon grew apart from each other, each growling menacingly.
''Hyper Beam!''
Dragonite flipped in the air, rubbing his paw. That Skull was a wall of steel. Eager to claim redemption, he fired another beam of destruction. Hyper Beam hit, blasting Mega Salamence higher into the sky. Its ascension came to a halt, soon, a flap of the wings conquered the devastating move.
"It tanked it." Ash clenched his teeth. ''That strong huh?''
''Salamence, use Dragon Rush!''
A swing of Salamence's tail ignited a purple-orange flame around the gigantic body. It roared, plummeting to piledrive Dragonite, slamming him with all of its weight. Blue embers scattered with the impact. The docile Dragon Pokemon reeled from the pain in his side.
''Catch it!'' Ash punched into the air. ''And Dragon Dance!''
Best known for his bone crushing hugs, as affectionate they were, no one said it couldn't be used in a Battle. Dragonite obeyed, tightly clutching the rival dragon by the horns. Look how I turn the tables now!
He could feel the other struggle, and continued to apply pressure. He felt his arms growing sore. But, Dragonite himself was stubborn. Strong-willed. Furious beats of his wings dispersed hissing waves across the shore. Roaring ferociously, he carried his protesting foe above. Dragonite began to spin in a brutal gigantic column resembling a tornado, taking Salamence into a wild spin. Salamence shrieked, getting woozy from the pirouette.
"Break free!" Drake shouted, pumping his fists. "Dragon Tail!"
Salamence struggled, hissing through his fangs. With enough struggle, he yanked an arm free, striking back with ferocity. A vicious slash struck Dragonite's belly, forcing him to release Salamence.
"Another Dragon Tail!" Drake ordered.
Salamence pursued, ready to whip Dragonite, again.
Ash threw a hand forward. "Thunder Punch!"
Dragonite twisted his body, narrowly avoiding Dragon Tail. He swung around, smashing into Salamence's jaw with his powerful lightning haymaker. A burst of sparks crossed the other's cheek, leaving it singed. The dragon squawked, rocked by the powerful punch to the jaw.
''I didn't even see that coming,'' a sailor awed.
''Dragon Dance is a handy ability.'' The other noted.
"Dragonite's faster than Salamence, but AK keeps building up his strength with Dragon Dance. They were geared towards speed since the beginning, and I guess they all went for brute … So, that's challenge, guys. Captain needs to come up with something to overcome that power." Fitzwilliam elucidated.
"Good, he's still got the edge in speed," Ash thought aloud. His confidence returned with a smirk.
''Dragonite has gotten more powerful,'' Drake mused.
"Pika!" Pikachu agreed, confident. They are totally gonna win this!
"Dragonite!" Ash crossed his arms over his chest. "Dragon Rush!"
Dragonite roared, drowning out the rages of the waves. Pulling back from Salamence, he became enveloped in a wild, bright blue glow. The horns and fangs of a dragon emanated from flickers of light, filling the Pokémon's body with primal, draconian strength.
"So, we're clashing head-on, huh?" Drake grinned, throwing a hand forward. Salamence, Dragon Rush!"
Salamence answered with his own thunderous cry, quickly surrounding himself in a lively blaze that resembled a dragon as well.
"Go!" The cry of both trainers boomed.
Dragonite and Salamence shot towards one another with a burst of speed, leaving onlookers with bated breath. Salamence huffed through his teeth, and Dragonite roared. The two streaks of light drew near.
The power and that of dragons, collided above. Ripples of energy blasted their surroundings, assaulting the beach with the resulting shockwave. A powerful wind rained white-hot embers from above, dropping into the water below.
"You can do it, Dragonite!" Ash clenched a fist tight. "Give it your all!"
"Keep at it, Salamence!" Drake encouraged.
Copper and coal hues alike didn't stray from the sight, even as they strained from the light that rivaled the sun.
"Kaiiii…!" Dragonite snarled, shoving his shoulder against his opponent's. Wings sprouted from his aura, sweeping to smash into Salamence.
"Roah!" Salamence pushed on, flapping his wings to push on forward.
Auras swirled and burst, a deafening explosion the result.
Ash and Drake looked on in silence, waiting to see whose pokemon would emerge from the debris. Ash swallowed. Falling trails of smoke caught his attention. Amongst them was a bulky orange blur meteoring down with a terrific speed. Dragonite fell from the debris.
The trainer felt his heart sink into his gut. "Dragonite…!"
Obviously! Where was the experience Dragonite needed to battle Salamence. Compared to Salamence, he was far behind. Salamence fell from the smoke, wearily glided by its wings for a slow descent.
"Hang in there!" Ash shrieked calling in vain.
Dragonite collapsed, crashing into the earth with a whimper.
Ash gasped. "Dragonite!"
Salamence landed, easing onto all fours.
"Come on, Dragonite…" Ash pleaded, his knuckles turning white. "I know you can do this! You're more than strong enough!"
No movement…
The dragon's eyes were tightly shut if not swirled. He just lay in the large crater, not moving a muscle.
The judge squinted forward and then at Salamence. Drake's dragon was itself out of shape. Salamence looked like it was on the edge and was struggling to hold the leftover power from Mega Evolution. Dragonite almost had him.
Now would be perfect to carry on with a final decision. ''Dragonite is unable-''
He was interrupted by a loud crash. Dragonite's tail had slammed into the earth, leaving a dent. The crimson aura on his body was raging. The referee's hand had started to raise. With that sign of life, he lowered it.
Bruises and burns covered him, from head to tail. Still, Dragonite shoved the earth with his claws, pushing onto all fours. With a snort, he forced himself once more, to stand on his hind legs.
His teal eyes burned, white-hot, with intensity. He stared across the field, capturing Salamence in his gaze. He wiped his chin, scowling. "Kaiii!" He had no intentions to lose, today.
Salamence righted himself, still breathing heavily. "Roah!" He roared in reply. He felt much the same.
Ash flinched, watching Dragonite bleat loudly into the sky. Hidden power of a dragon had unleashed within the orange dragon.
"Roah!" Dragonite spat, putting Ash in his sights. His eyes were red, nothing but fury could be seen in those eyes. Those looked like….
"..." Ash stood in momentary silence. He smiled. "Hey, looks like you just learnt 'Outrage'.
Dragonite nodded, turning back to face Salamence.
"Your Dragonite's amazing, AK!" Drake called from across the fray. "I'm not disappointed at all.''
Salamence roared, standing upright. This was certainly a challenge to live up to. Yes! That is what represented their race! This is why the Dragons are so ferocious. Dragonite certainly had made the class proud and the young one had made a place for
Ash smiled wide, his copper eyes shimmering. "Great. Then, let's settle this!"
Drake tilted his head. It looked as if Ash had been speaking to Dragonite - getting some sentiment across. But, he hadn't heard a thing. "I guess that's a strong bond for you… You thinking what I'm thinking, Salamence?"
Salamence snapped his tail in affirmation.
Drake nodded. "AK, we're going to give you guys the fight you deserve!" He pointed forward. "Salamence, use Hyper Beam!"
Salamence snapped his head forward, launching a scalding Hyper Beam.
"That's just what we want!" Ash grinned, pointing towards Salamence. "Hyper Beam, you too!"
Dragonite stomped the field, returning the orange beam . Energies met and parted in another blazing star.
"Take to the sky!" Ash commanded.
Using the cover of smoke and embers, Dragonite shot into the air above.
Drake smiled to himself. "Dragonite's been over-powered, so AK is looking for a lucky break. Follow him, with Zen Headbutt!"
Salamence gave chase, blitzing forward for their next assault.
Dragonite dipped from the incoming dragon, quickly forced to soar above the next.
Ash cracked his knuckles. "Thunder Punch!"
Dragonite somersaulted, coming down with his gargantuan, sizzling limb.
"Catch it!" Drake shouted.
Salamence clashed its wings together, crushing down its ethereal glowing head upon Dragonite's tail. It bore its fangs, struggling to push back. Dragonite's punch overpowered Zen Headbutt, making Salamence double over.
"You have to face our attack sometime, AK!" Drake boasted.
"Wasn't planning on running." A grin spread across Ash's face. "Dragonite, Outrage!"
Still ascending, Dragonite dipped back, turning belly-up. In a swift turn, he shot into a nosedive.
Salamence had no time to change its path, staring into the eyes of a furious aura that swallowed it whole. Driven by rage, Dragonite raked a claw into Salamence, raining and pelting Salamence with a barrage of slashes and kicks.
Bone met bone with a resounding crack, and then silence fell. One last smack sent Salamence pummeled into the shore met, with a loud crash.
Fitzwilliam gasped. "Salamence!"
The sailors gasped and exchanged hushed whispers. The dust clouds scattered. Standing over the mangled scales of Salamence's unconscious form was Dragonite, trumpeting. The rage had been faltered.
They had done it.
They won.
"...Dragonite…" His voice was barely a whisper.
They won.
He was nearly toppled to the ground as Dragonite came flyng across the battlefield, catching Ash in a bone-crushing hug with a cry so fierce he felt his ribs rattle.
''Maybe I have been too hard on Meganium and Muk…''
The laugh that escaped him nearly hurt, it'd been buried so deep in nervousness and tension, it fairly ripped from his throat.
But the giddiness wouldn't fade, and without knowing what else to do, Ash buried his head against the dragon's own and let the sheer disbelief turn his next laugh into something that resembled a gloat.
''Awesome job, Dragonite!''
It was only then that he noticed Dragonite's gaze had focused off to the side, and he turned to find Drake standing a few paces away. His face was impassive, and even though the battle was over, the stern gaze said it all. Was there a lecture coming?
The old sailor tipped his hat in a curt nod, ''Well played AK. Did you know why I lost? Because you're heart is virtuous than my own. And it is the influence of the Trainers' good heart which helps Pokemon grow strong Set sail with head held high, young man.''
Chuckling under his breath, Ash grinned. ''Aye Captain!''
Okay, I am definitely adding this chapter in my top 5.
I am riled up for the next three chapters as well. May take three more weeks, but Hoenn will definitely be completed by then! And then the Kanto Elite Four Challenge!
In fact I'll get down on the Juan chapter now. Oh yes, speaking of next chapter, I Want Ash to battle Juan cause I can use Wallace in the Pokemon World Coronation Tournament. It can't happen the other way around so, my pick is Juan.
Next on Back in Action:
Juan
Morrison
Brendan Birch!
See you Next Week!