The Chapter of Sootopolis Gym is done! I really want to appreciate all of your gratitude for the last chapter! Drake was a hit! I promise to surprise you folks more! Thanks for joining me on this ride!
Ash's roster: Pikachu, Talonflame, Gliscor, Muk, Floatzel and Lapras.
Enjoy!
''Hello, I am here for a rematch….''
"Pikachu!" The electric mouse cheered. A certain sight had been captured in his beady black eye that warranted more attention. "Pikapi!" He cried, pointing toward the frozen stairs.
"Huh?" The man's eyes were turned in the direction Pikachu pointed, soon doubling in size.
Ash had barely finished gaping at the Sootopolis Gym's dazzling interior before he realized Juan had descended from the Gym's uppermost level and addressed him with a wide smile. Even against a backdrop of shimmering tile and cascading water, the Gym Leader's distinctive style stood center stage, and Ash couldn't help but feel a knot of anxiety settle in his stomach. Juan was a truly intimidating figure who commanded every ounce of reverence he received.
"Welcome challenger, to the Sootopolis Gym!'' Sebastian, Juan's butler, beamed as he got a closer look at the trainer who stepped through the doors.
Juan stepped forward. '"I was wondering when you would make your appearance here, Ash. I witnessed you battle in Rubello Town's Pokemon Coronation Series. Ever since, I have been expecting to cross paths with you. Our rematch shall be one of elegance and splendor, truly one for the history books of Sootopolis.'' Juan danced his hands across his chest in a slightly pompous, but fitting gesture to accentuate his words.
''Our battle?'' Ash quirked a brow in puzzlement. ''You mean Wallace isn't available right now?''
''My student has permanently hand-over the Gym Leader responsibilities to me,'' Juan smiled, a little disappointed the new comer wasn't expecting him.
''Oh…I guess I can settle….'' Ash slowly blurted out, realizing he was edging into slight rudeness, which made him switch for a positive answer. ''..which is good, now that get to battle Wallace's mentor.''
"…You'd like a rematch?" He glanced around. That was very uncommon for Trainers that had already passed the Sootopolis Gym challenge. ''Then it shall be my honor.''
And with a flourish, Juan turned and walked toward a set of stairs that rose through the Gym all the way to the highest of the tiered platforms. Ash's gaze swept over the Gym's landscape, only now noticing that tucked between the different tiers of pools were several platforms made entirely of ice. All of the pools looked easy enough to access with steps neatly carved into the cascading rock and lined with delicate tile, but the platforms appeared to be a different story. They only shared one common path; a series of segmented ramps that apparently could turn into stairs with the push of a button, as the flight to the first platform demonstrated.
''This way,'' Sebastian swayed a hand towards the stair case, ''The battlefield awaits you…''
''Glad I don't do puzzles….'' Ash mumbled.
The interior of the building was extravagant as well, with a combination of Unovan and Kalosian architecture styles forming archways. The stands looked almost like the ones from the famous Orre Colosseum, just with a better polish and finish to them. Perched atop the highest tier of the Gym was a pool in roughly the shape of a regulation size field. Mercifully there seemed to be small stone platforms dotted throughout the pool as well. Motioning for Ash to follow, Juan climbed another set of stairs to the pool's deck.
Although the pool before him was nowhere near as massive as the one at the ground floor, it sparkled with intricate tile work that ran from the edge of the deck and up the back wall of the Gym itself. The pool was filled with crystal clear water that spilled readily through several openings in the sides and cascaded in tracts down to feed the lower training pools. Whatever matches that had been taking place elsewhere came to a halt as a murmur of whispered voices carried over the ambient sounds of rushing water.
'' I can't wait to see what kind of thrilling performance you two have in store," Juan ushering Ash to complete the step inside the Trainer Box. ''What do you say we get started?''
As Ash filled the Trainer Box, his glance fell on Juan who was rolling two Pokeballs in the hand. Ash immediately caught the notion.
''You know, Ash. Things have changed since the last time you were here. And therefore, you shall bear witness to our artistry. A grand illusion of water sculpted by Pokémon and myself!''
''Those words do sound optimistic,'' Ash smiled, swelling up two capsules as well. ''But trust me, I don't intend to show up again, which means this will be our last battle. I am going to fight like one. Are you?''
''Most certainly,'' Juan nodded, turning to his butler. ''Sebastian?''
''Very well, sir…'' Sebastian bowed, spreading his arms, standing upon the referee podium.
''This is an unofficial Gym Battle between the Gym Leader of Sootopolis City, Juan and the challenger, Ash Ketchum! Each trainer will use five Pokemon. The battle will be divided into four parts. The first round will be a double battle, and the rest will be Single Battles. The challenger can make substitutions only during the Single Battles. There is no time limit. Trainers, choose your Pokemon!''
''Let's do it,'' Ash widened his visage, introducing his two Pokemon into the field. ''Talonflame, Gliscor, you're up!''
The two airborne Pokémon made their appearance, hovering above the waters. Each happily greeted their trainer, waiting for whatever his next command would be.
''Luvdisc, Whiscash! Let's give them a show!'' the ace Gym Leader chucked his capsules with practiced flair.
In a splash, the two water types surfaced up, studying their opponents. While Luvdisc twisted into a pout, Whiscash curled its whiskers. Oh what does it see, another Ground type in the air. This will be fun!
''Luvdisc, Rain Dance! Whiscash, Muddy Water!''
With a melodious croon, the air responded and dark clouds began circling above the pool. Occasionally a drop fell into a waters, and the next second the fell with fervor. And while the two water types below were pleased by the pitter-patter, Talonflame and Gliscor were not appreciating the sudden change in weather.
''Rain dance to activate Luvdisc's Swift Swim and power up Water type moves,'' Ash scratched his chin. ''Now, that's challenging. Talonflame, Steel Wing! And Gliscor, X-Scissor!''
The Flame Pokemon rushed to raise his wings, coated by thick lustrous metal. Gliscor on the other hand, didn't fall too short behind, generating the blue shine in his claws. Pfff…are birds the only agile ones?
''Whiscash, Waterfall to protect you and Luvdisc!'' Juan combated.
''…cash…'' the Catfish moaned its name lazily, summoning a powered torrent of water from above, encasing itself and its heart-shaped comrade.
''Using Waterfall as a shield,'' Ash mused, definitely knowing the pillar of water could be a threat to his two vulnerable Pokemon. ''Now wonder, he's one of the best water type trainer. Gliscor, use Screech!''
Gliscor poked his tongue out and complied. A loud wailing sound filled the four walls. The howls entered the waterfall, being the conductor of sound waves, making Whiscash and Luvdisc thrash around inside. Soon, the Waterfall exploded, drowned by the calming waters.
''Impressive timing, Ash,'' Jan clapped. ''Whiscash, Muddy Water, and Luvdisc, use Attract!''
''Gliscor, you chase Luvdisc and use Sky Uppercut!''
''Gli…''
Talonflame watched with wide, shocked eyes as the water around Whiscash turned murky. Soon, it was completely brown, shrouded in ichor and muck. The water began to rock. The slurry began to rise and wrap around him. Well aware, what it could do, swerved upward, one wing dipping, letting the wave of slur pass behind him. But wait, what was he seeing on the other field.
Gliscor is too close to the water!
The bird watched on horridly, as Luvdisc popped right in front of the bat, captivating him in her guileful, treacherous love. Flustered with pink Blemishes, Gliscor lost all wary and will to fight, and went crashing against an ice-pillar.
Yet! The Vampire Bat stood dazed, dreaming of Luvdisc's kisses.
''Rats!'' Talonflame squawked, rushing to help his ally, before he found himself captured by another muddy tide and rocked. The water was too obscured for him to orient himself. Bracing against an end he couldn't predict, Talonflame soon found himself tumbling across the air.
''I know what's playing here.'' Ash bit, thumb pressing into his palm. ''Whiscash and Luvdisc have been teammates way before Talonflame and Gliscor have. Come to think of it, it's their fist time teaming up.''
''Water is a very powerful element, Ash!'
''Yet they can never harm the sky.''
''Being wet is the least of your problems,'' Juan spread his arms. ''Whiscash, Hidden Power! Luvdisc, Aqua Jet!''
Luvdisc for one, who had Gliscor to herself, blasted forward like a torpedo for the love-struck Ground Type. Whereas Whiscash surfaced its head above the water, three crackling orbs weaved around one another, uniting towards a singular target - a drenched, mucky Bird.
''Shoot, that Hidden Power is an Electric Type!'' Ash alarmed. ''Flame Charge!''
Ash wouldn't take Talonflame take that, not when its still raining. First came smoke that brightly blazed Talonflame's body in flames, and the bird became engulfed in elemental energy. With a squawk befitting the bird, Talonflame rocketed at the lightning spheres.
"You've got this!" Ash called, throwing a hand out.
"Chua… Pika!"
The blazing Talonflame crashed down upon all three bursts, fire smashing into raw energy. Hidden Power exploded, and Talonflame soared higher.
But Ash couldn't get a chance to feel proud as his attention diverted over to his other Pokemon. ''Gliscor, you gotta dodge!''
His voice couldn't fall on Gliscor's ears, who was still head over heels for pink heart was torrenting forward for him. Fortunately, Talonflame did hear Ash's voice.
An orange blur zipped past the propelling heart. Before Luvdisc could close in, Gliscor was out of the way. Luvdisc couldn't alter her path and went crashing head-first into the Ice block.
To comprehend what happened at the last minute, Juan caught sight of Talonflame grabbing Gliscor's by his tail, clutched in the bird's talons. Gliscor resisted, peering down to find Luvdisc hurt. Suddenly, Talonflame had become a mortal enemy.
''What a marvelous teamwork displayed.'' Juan praised. ''Whiscash, catch Gliscor!''
Threat underneath was still lurking when a two long tendrils shot forward and latched onto Gliscor's claws. Talonflame, much to dismay, struggled to soar higher. A tug of war had started, but instead of rope, there was a sick lover boy Gliscor.
''Luvdisc, Water Pulse!''
Talonflame couldn't hold on a tighter, fearing his sharp talon's could leave bruises on Gliscor. Things got easier for Whiscash, as a sphere of water punched Talonflame in the side, making the flame bird let go of Gliscor. With a splash, Whiscash and Gliscor were both out of strike.
''No Gliscor!'' Ash's heart raced.
While Talonflame recovered from the strike, fluttering his wings to let the residual water out. But more than himself, he was worried about Gliscor. By now, even rain had stopped, so the water could be read slightly.
A bubble spurt in the water, arresting everyone's attention. Ash pursed his lips, fists tightening. Hundreds of bubbles joined the first one, and there was a miniature quake. The rushing, twisting water began to lose momentum and size.
"What in the world!?" Sebastian did a double-take.
Amidst the tremor, Gliscor leapt from the water, soaked. Finding the water a bit nippy for his taste, he groaned, trying to dry his wings. ''Gli….''
''That's more like it!'' Ash cheered, pumping a fist. "Talonflame, use your Flame Body Ability to dry yourself and Gliscor!''
Talonflame nodded, wrapping his feathered extremities against Gliscor, radiating warmth. They shone bright like a sun in the sky. Their bodies dried off, and they were ready once again to rumble
''Both of you, Hide in the water!'' Juan called, clapping as a signal.
Both Pokemon took a marginal jump before plummeting back inside, taking cover under water.
Classic water type trainers. Think they battle on seas!
''You gotta face up our attach sometime,'' Ash smirked. ''Gliscor, Talonflame, Use Tailwind over the water!''
''Pika pi!''
''Gli…''
''Talo….'''
The furious beats of wings from each sides, whipped up a monstrous wind above the pool, stirring up a raging typhoon. Cool mist and slush rained about it, stirred up by the attack.
"Using Tailwind on the water to whip up an attack like that... " Holding a hand to his chin, Juan nodded in thought. ''A beautiful creativity born to the effective art of teamwork! Astounding!''
The waters raged on, parting to whip Whiscash and Luvdisc in the air, squealing.
Juan didn't let go of the opportunity. ''Whiscash, Water fall! And Luvdisc, Aqua Jet!''
Luvdisc rocketed herself, surrounded in water veil. Whiscash aided, blasting off Luvdisc by the spinning column of Waterfall. Talonflame, being the Samaritan, shoved Gliscor to the side, taking the full brunt of Waterfall. Luvdisc changed her course, hurling herself out of Waterfall, heading for Gliscor.
Talonflame gawked, hacking for oxygen inside the waterfall he was trapped in. To make things worse, something had entangled his feet. Talonflame dissented, finding Whiscash had grabbed hold of him in his whiskers.
Ash swapped his eyes between his two Pokemon. ''X-Scissor to protect yourself! And Talonflame, Steel Wing!''
Gliscor braced, holding out his claws in a cross. He wasn't going to fall in Luvdisc's trap once again. And after all that, she was gonna pay!
Talonflame too, a resilient one, turned the tides. Squawking in the water, he used his talons and clutched onto Whiscash' moustache. ''Okay, mudball! Now I'll show you why I am named Talonflame!''
Shrieking, Talonflame hardened his wings in glimmering steel, ideal to lighten his weight and rocket out of the aquatic column.
Whiscash wailed, as Talonflame chauffed it around in the sky, before swinging it hard on Luvdisc about to reach Gliscor. The heavy mass hit the smaller water type, making her lose her momentum. She went spiraling crashing on the platform on the pool, laid out exhausted. Unmovable, Sebastian didn't take a second longer to call of Luvdisc's participation.
''Luvdisc is unable to continue!'' Following his decision, Juan returned the Pokemon in her capsule after a sense of appreciation.
Now, ball was in Juan's court. Whiscash had to fight two against one. Both were weak against water, and hence, breaking a team network seemed the only way.
''Whiscash, Hidden Power!''
Once again multiple orbs reared around Whiscash, fired at Talonflame. Ash grinned, not thinking too much over to dodge.
''Gliscor, jump in front of Talonflame!''
''Gli….''
The Scorpion Bat defended the Kalosian against the electrically powered orbs, receiving no effect, other than the pleasure of the volts dancing on his figure.
''Gli….'' He turned to his partner.
''Talonn….'' The Bird chirped.
''Muddy Water!''
Raising its fins, Whiscash once again sent waves of grime upwards.
''Soar higher!'' Ash chuckled. He was already sensing Juan would trip somewhere. He two fliers let the wind comply theirs wings, ascending higher above the pool, where the filthy water couldn't reach them. Disappointed, the mucks returned to the pool below.
''Use Waterfall to get higher and Rock Smash!''
This time Waterfall was erupted beneath Whiscash, and the deafening torrent hoisted the Mud Fish above, on a level with both of adversary's Pokemon. Once high enough, Whiscash jumped, cascading at Gliscor.
'' Talonflame, use Solarbeam!''
With a ferocious cry unexpected from Talonflame, the flash of sunlight was shot in Whiscash's direction. Concentrated on Gliscor, but hues took notice of the brutal solar energy heading it's way, Whiscash twisted to the right, swaying past the Solarbeam that went burst a wall where it hit.
''Whiscash must have the ability 'Anticipation'…'' Ash bit. ''Gliscor, Sky Uppercut!''
Now Whiscash was all open! Gliscor blitzed forward, slipping underneath the Cat Fish. One pincer brutally hooked under the face, spoiling Whiscash's charisma. The hit told Juan everything that Whiscash was out!
The water type tumbled in the air, landing hard in the water below. Its immobile body surfaced up and Sebastian sighed, hating he had to raise his feeble hands once again.
''Whiscash is unable to battle! Since Ash's both Pokemon can still continue, this round goes to Ash Ketchum!''
The capsule's spell did its job of returning Whiscash to the sphere. Round one ended badly for Juan, three more rounds meant three possible good news.
"Well fought, my friend. It seems as if I've underestimated you, and for that, I've suffered defeat."
Then, he straightened. With a confident stride, the Master winded up a PokéBall out from his cloak. In short order, a stout bulky Walrein made its presence known atop a circle of ice floating on the water.
Knowing that the Double Battle was all Talonflame and Gliscor could participate for today, Ash gave them a mild thanks before returning. Hands didn't stop movement as a new ball was chucked into the pool.
"MUUUUUKKKKKKKKKKKK!"
The compression of Sludge appeared on one of pedestals, outstretching an arm aloft. The reek was unbearable, and could have made any water Pokémon in the pool surface just by the stench. Mouth constantly leaking toxins, Muk oozed over the platform.
Lazily the walrus's head rolled back and it gave a wide yawn of boredom.
Coolly, Juan's gaze slid over the battlefield, and he twirled the end of his mustache with two fingers. "Now that's an interesting choice…"
Ash was hoping that even if Juan wouldn't underestimate him, the Leader's pokemon still might. To a water pokemon, Muk looked like an easy mark.
Juan gave the judge a brief nod, before pulling things off. "Walrein, Surf!"
Snapping to attention, Walrein sat up and trained its gaze on the poison type. A loud rushing sound filled the arena as a monstrous wave lifted from the pool behind Walrein and poured forth. The raven haired trainer and his Pokémon alike stared down the formidable surf attack without flinching.
With a strategy already sprouting in mind, Ash punched the air. "Muk, get in water and use Acid Amror!"
Muk entered the brewing waters, molding himself into the liquid. No purple glob could be seen in Walrein's eyes as Muk was a part of the waters, and that meant danger had surrounded it from all corners. The waves settled making the pool clear once again.
"You can't hide forever" Juan smirked, a twinkle in his eye "Walrein, Surf once again!"
Ash watched as the water receded from his side of the battlefield, drawn in by the artificial ti2de of Walrein's surf. As the wall of water reared up, Ash seized their chance. "Shock Wave!"
A cellular structure began surfacing up, and Muk drawled. Energy danced and sparked around him. With blue electricity coursed, Muk sent the brilliant bolt right at Walrein. Mid-attack, there was nothing the walrus pokemon could do to defend, and it howled in pain as the electric attack snapped and sizzled across its wet fur. The surf attack that had been brewing collapsed and fell harmlessly back into the pool. The water lapped harmlessly as Muk once again dissolved under, watching Walrein writhe under the lingering effects of the super effective attack.
First incredulous, then just simpering, Juan admired Ash's battling style. "Who would have thought you have a trump card hidden like that? Clever of you to utilize Muk like that."
Ash stood on with a prideful huff, unblinking. Juan was playing him into words. If Ash was prepared, Juan was too. Juan trailed off as he glanced toward Walrein. The water-type looked more angry than hurt, its mane frizzled from the remaining static charge.
"Walrein, use Hail!"
A whooping bark echoed through the arena as Walrein slapped a massive fin down on the tile. High above the battlefield, dark clouds began to swirl and Ash involuntarily shivered as the temperature plummeted. But it wasn't long until the weather wasn't so gentle any more. As Ash squinted, the calm surface of the pool broke into thousands of ripples, and the hail had become so harsh that Muk was forced to erupt from the waters to save himself from the shivering, trying to shield himself from the pelting onslaught.
Juan's face had fallen deadly serious. "Now, use Blizzard."
Ash countered. "Shock Wave!"
The wind began to howl and suddenly the snow and hail mix changed direction, blowing nearly horizontal across the arena. Ash had to shield his face in order to watch as Muk's attack shot forward, arcing toward its target. Electricity met flesh, and Walrein yowled in pain, but as Ash glanced back to his partner, he watched in dismay as the water that sloshed around Muk's underparts had began to freeze solid.
"MUUUKKKKK!"
Ash remained silent. There was always a way. The force of Blizzard was getting fierce. Above, Hail was still stinging Muk and below the waters was freezing at a speedy pace. But there was one move in Muk's arsenal that could prove effective here.
"Pain Split!"
Muk grained, the ice was unbearable. Producing an odd shockwave in his body, the Red bolt detected the Walrein around, making the ice type share Muk's pain. Even though it was recovering health from Hail through Ice Body, a stoop on its health was an intimidating menace. Walrein crowed in pain, as it felt all Muk has been through.
"Ahh! That was a surprise." Juan blinked.
"Acid Armor to get yourself out!"
Once more, the brown waters below captured Muk's water molecules and Muk melted out from the frost.
"We must do something about that Acid Armor," Juan hummed, pointing a hand. "With Muk using Shock Wave, the timing is always tricky. Use Surf immediately followed with Blizzard!"
Walren's wave reared up and poured forth. Tidal waves rose high like every drop of water pertained to Walrein's request. Once the waves were arched to the height Juan wanted, a brutal snowstorm from Walrein had made a curve of transparent ice on the pool, and it was certain Muk was somewhere encased in the giant ice block.
With frozen from all sides, Acid Armor couldn't guarantee a quick burrow out. But wait! Hadn't Ash used only three moves until now. That meant...
"Gunk Shot!"
Muk appeared, droning inside the huge ice block Walrein had created. Face motionless but began to read struggle. It was noticed something from Muk was leaking out. Highly noxious acids started to melt the colossal ice blocks, giving birth to toxic fumes emitting out. The frosted sheets began to melt, once again making most of the water flow, and Muk was free. As if longing to be out, the globs of gunk were released, streaking down upon Walrein, leaving it coated in sticky gunk and poison.
Ash took a glimpse of Juan whispering something on the other side and Walrein's pained eyes narrowed at Muk.
"Muk, they are gonna pull a fast one. I need you to use Gunk Shot once again!"
"MUKK!"
"Brine" Juan revealed.
Walrein struggled to right itself. With Muk constantly slapping it around, it had to make up for it. Walrein reared its head back before fighting with a torrential jet of salt water. Muk too wasn't fazed before he retaliated with a thick pile of toxic gunk. The colliding attacks stirred the winds wild, before disbanding completely.
Juan guarded his eyes waiting for the aftermath. Ash didn't budge. He had full confidence in the outcome of this round.
From the waters, Muk revealed himself, still healthy and fresh. Walrein wasn't so lucky, surfacing back up, fainted.
"Walrein is unable to battle! The Victor of this round is Muk!"
"Clever indeed," muttered Juan, a smile playing across his lips as Walrein disappeared back into its ball. "I should have foreseen you asking Muk to use Acid Armor in the last minute."
The pokemon in question perked up at the sound of his name, almost toppling into the water as he picked its way back across the pedestals toward his trainer.
"Nice going Muk!" Ash chuckled.
He didn't have much time to brace himself before Muk joined in the celebration the only way he knew how… with a tackle of a hug.
"Maybe I don't give Professor Oak enough credit..."
Pikachu squealed in as well. A victory for home team would always bring a smile on the rodent's face. A rumble alerted Ash, as with a final smile, he recalled the obsessive poison type.
"The partnership between you and Pokémon is astounding," Juan greeted, rolling a new Pokeball in hand. "I would like to see how your clever strategy works against this one."
Another flash of yellow and blue poured forth, but this time it literally did so in a torrent of water. Ash blinked as the water began to spark with electricity. Poking out from the center of the water came a cheerful looking snout beneath a brightly glowing bauble of light.
"I am sure you must have expected different additional types other than water types" Juan comforted the fish as his Lanturn bobbed up from the water. Ash eyed the dual electric and water type pokemon's skillful sculpting of its watery pedestal and shook his head. Widening his visage, Ash fished out a perfect replacement for Muk, lobbing the Capsule forward. The ball wobbled upon one of the Icy regions of the pool, releasing the pokémon inside.
"Float!" The bipedal weasel stood, crossing his arms over his chest.
Whirlpool!"
"Float!"
Floatzel dove underneath and spun furiously, twisting the pool into a ferocious eddy, it warped into a raging vortex. Lanturn was blasted back as the water type move expanded. Unfortunately, on this terrain, there was no way for her to counter or dodge it. Whirlpool spun Lanturn, sending her flying across the water like a stone. Eventually, she sunk beneath the waves.
"Lanturn attack with Ice Beam!"
Beneath the waters, Lanturn snarled at Floatzel's wavering form. Swimming through the murky water, Lanturn was obscured from Floatzel's view. However, the grime was also compromising Lanturn's vision. The result was that, as Lanturn took shots at Floatzel from the water, the other water type had to try to dodge the sudden attacks. The two were leaping back and forth, trying to anticipate the other's action. While the pool had turned brown from Whiscash's Muddy Water earlier, the stage was slowly turning blue from Lanturn's freezing rays.
It was a full on reversal of the original colors.
Seeing Floatzel dodging the issue, Ash held his hand out high. "Hydro Pump!"
Swelling his chest, Floatzel released a gushing torrent of water, that was so powerful, it parted the freezing waters and tossed Lanturn into the air, like an omelet from a pan.
"Well played. All right, Lanturn, we'll make this a battle of attrition. Aqua ring!"
frown deepened as the support move surrounded Lanturn in a hazy blue ring. Floatzel grizzled his fur too, now that his opponent had a reliable source of recovery. They needed to seize the attack, and in a hurry.
"Aqua Jet!"
A defiant "Zel.." answered Ash. Water burst around Floatzel and he sped forward, tails rotating as propeller, but the water pokemon proved to be quicker than it looked, and it skirted out of the way at the last minute.
"Take a turn!"
Twisting, Floatzel began his chase for the fish, still coated in the shield of water. But again, Lanturn was nimble in moving around just ahead of Floatzel.
"Time to go offensive," Juan grinned. "Water Pulse!"
Still fleeing from Floatzel's pursuit, at Juan's command Lanturn peeked back at its opponent with a small grin. The water beneath its fins began to churn and suddenly a sneaky surf attack gushed forth.
Not able to brace himself, Floatzel somehow tore through the Water Pulse, while Ash watched on with tight expression. What he feared was Confusion that was Water Pulse's secondary effect. As the wave passed, Floatzel set his foot on the floor once more, swelling up his floatation sac for extra oxygen.
"Bulk Up!"
Ash's hand shot forward just in time for Floatzel to build energy.
"Hydro Pump" Ash punched forward.
"Discharge!" Juan extended a hand.
Crackling electricity crashed into an overwhelming blast of water, the two elemental bursts tearing into each other before exploding violently between the two pokemon. A strong burst of water made it through Lanturn's defenses, had done minimal damage at best, and it seemed to sag more from exertion than pain. But whatever the reason, its fatigue was quickly negated as aqua ring's effect kicked in. Floatzel, saved himself from the residual sparks by taking shelter in the water. Juan however, had a hawk's eye to notice this.
"Freeze the surface with Ice Beam!"
Below the surface, Floatzel felt the water chill to a freezing temperature, as a ceiling of ice encased the surface.
Stubborn, he fired Hydro Pump at the solid ice.
Back on the surface, an explosion rocked the frozen sheet, sending chunks of ice flying.
Lanturn, however, was unharmed.
"Hmmm...Ash noted." Whirlpool!"
Floatzel seized the opportunity before Lanturn's Ice Beam could make the pool a solid substance. There was still a lot of water that could be used to turn Juan's strategy against him. Floatzel began churning the pool once again, the waters began to swirl wildly. Cracks began to leak out water from the frost. Lanturn gaped in surprise, being pulled towards the Whirlpool. Coasting along the uneven waters, Lanturn was enveloped into the twister, hundreds of broken shards hit her as she was plucked and tossed like a Seedot.
Aqua Ring could only make up for a portion of the massive vitality lost. Fishing above, the water-electric type winced, one eye shut. The Sea Weasel burst through the ice, hopping on a floating iceberg.
"Good work," Juan's eyes narrowed, his lips curving into a little, predatory smirk. "Discharge!".
Ash gasped. "Bulk Up!"
Lanturn's cry echoed through the ceiling. Sparks flew as arc of currents struck Floatzel. The Weasel groaned in agony. Consumed in crippling electricity, he hunched over. Flexing up, Bulk Up was also providing an additional defense stay. Standing on the ice of the slushing waters, Floatzel broke the wave of electricity with a harsh cry. It made it!" Ash's eyes followed the dissipating, glimmering mist.
"Aqua Jet!"
Quickly surrounded in a torrent, Floatzel launched himself into the air, throwing himself at Lanturn .
"Ice Beam!"
"Hah...this is a ritual! Take it!"
Aiming at water covered Weasel, Lanturn released another freezing flash. Floatzel smirked, receiving the full brunt of Ice Beam. Ice had crept all its way the trail of water, seeping the water with an unforgiving chill. Lanturn shrieked, body basked in freezing water. The Ice Aqua Jet burst into shards, and Floatzel propelled through the tackle, straight into Lanturn.
Lanturn fell into the water, limp and unconscious, while Floatzel dove in the water, and surfaced back, once again arms crossed.
There, it is done.
"Lanturn is unable to battle! Floatzel wins! The Gym Leader now has only one Pokémon left!"
"Hmmm... A combination of two moves, priceless in admiration." Juan grinned, recalling his Pokémon just seconds after Sebastian's decision. "A Master you are, Ash, to use an opponent's strategy against them."
With a flick of the wrist, Juan's PokéBall arced through the air before spilling its contents into the pool. A reverberating cry echoed about the arena as Milotic took form, curling gracefully in on herself before rising out of the water, Floatzel couldn't help but gape. Her cream colored scales shone with an iridescent hue and her multicolor tail fanned out behind her in a brilliant display.
Juan just smirked. "Stunning, isn't she? You'll soon see that Milotic's not just a pretty face either. Her beauty is only matched by her power. And she has grown more powerful than last time you faced us."
"Eh... Not your type buddy." Ash shrugged his shoulders, returning Floatzel to throw another Pokeball into the pool. "Lapras, I choose you!"
A white flash was cast, heralding freezing winds. The long neck of a sea creature craned, glimmering blue eyes looking down upon her foe.
"A very befitting choice Ash. I could think of no better Pokémon to be a match for my Milotic. Elegant and graceful."
"Has she been in the same waters as Lapras, though?" Ash quipped.
"Confidence is good," Juan chuckled, signaling the judge to start the match.
"Trainers begin!" Sebastian yanked his hands down.
"Lapras, start with Surf!"
"Milotic, Dragon Pulse"
Just as one side of the pool began lowering so that one might become larger, Milotic lazily raised just its head. Her mouth opened wide in that was that snakes opened it - big as a chasm. A bundle of burning blue and yellow energy was shot out. Milotic had used Dragon Pulse. It ripped through the waves which would have swept her angrily out of the pool, and instead struck down Lapras.
Milotic only drifted along the bottom of the pool, avoiding being dragged up.
"Milotic, Iron Tail!"
"Lapras, use Freeze Dry!"
Lapras reared her head, as Milotic leaped from underwater, shooting forward with an iron coated tail. The distance between the two pokemon closed in an instant, and they met in a mighty clash of water. The wet chilled beam from Lapras poured forth with such force, Milotic instead had to use the glimmering tail to protect herself. She tried to press her way through, but the attack was too strong from such close range. Milotic couldn't find any other choice than to retreat by diving underwater.
"It's not safe in there," Ash pumped up. "Body Slam!"
The huge sea creature postured herself, lifting her massive body weight away from the water, just to pummel herself down.
"And that's where we have you!" Juan sighted an opening. "Disarming Voice!"
Popping out from the water, Milotic used the fairy type move. A melodious sound so sweet and soothing, yet marked by dangerous, dancing hearts and a visible frequency of pink was pitched towards the Missiling Lapras.
"Mmm..." the water type cried out upon being hit by the deceivingly innocent looking attack. Blown up the series of fluctuations, Lapras's heavy mass landed into the pool, and the Transport Pokémon began her pursuit for her opponent below
"Smart Strike!"
Pedaling as fast as she could, Lapras made use of the one part of her body rarely used: the horn. Soon enough, she rammed into the side of the long serpent below the surface.
Milotic let out a cry that barely registered as audible above the waters.
"Disarming Voice!"
Water was a much better conductor of sound than air was, so the attack was even speedier down here. As displayed by Ash in the Double Battle earlier. Lapras suffered another sonic assault blown back by the force.
"Good work, my friend! Dragon Pulse!"
Focusing, Milotic coiled before increasing the temperature of the water, so high they boiled. The Sea based dragon writhed in pain, quickly swimming away to cooler parts of the pool. Unfortunately, the damage was already begun. The pool turned kaleidoscopic of multiple bright colors shimmering underneath Lapras. Following the shine was an eruption of dragon–type energy, consuming the Transport pokemon. Lapras skirted the water with expertise, gliding past the geyser of energy.
Keeping a cool air, Lapras coasted along the crashing wave that erupted from the second blast's surfacing. Narrowly avoiding the third, she spun in mid-air to face the blast point.
"Body Slam!" Ash persisted.
With a chime, Lapras nosedive her fully weight on the water. Splashes erupted, towering above the pool, making the trainers take a few steps back from the edge. The crash tossed up Milotic, but Juan was ready.
"Iron Tail!"
Sharp swipe of the steel coated extremity from the serpent, elicited a shrill from the Transport Pokémon as she was sent skidding across the waves.
"Smart Strike!" Ash ushered. Halting the skid, Lapras surfed forward, horn ready to jab.
"Mist!"
In one smooth motion, the Milotic's tail slapped straight through the spray she created, scattering water everywhere. Instantly the battlefield was covered in a fine mist that hung heavy in the air. Ash's eyes widened as he lost sight of his pokemon in the haze.
Curiously, Lapras gaze swept over the fogs, mirroring Ash's own wary gaze.
"Get ready," he whispered, voice tight.
Lapras whined a low note, still scanning, vigilant. A faint gurgle was their only warning before a stream of water shot out of the mist cloud from the right.
"Right there, Freeze Dry!"
Spinning sharply to face the threat, Lapras fired a strong blast from her mouth at the nimble silhouette of Milotic. A shrill from the haze boosted Ash's ego, as their mark was hit.
"Dragon Pulse again!"
The frost was working its way on Milotic's body, yet she was determined to fire another blast. The spinning, shimmering force of Dragon Pulse broke, demolished by the rising tide of Surf. Lapras headed the wave, launching herself high above the crest.
Juan gawked at the Pokemon's rising altitude, breathless. Only something more could have been visible through the Mist.
Milotic's scales had started to turn blue from the frost. That was one part every water type hated about Freeze Dry. The move had an exclusive vendetta against the aquatic creatures. But now that was the least of her problems.
The titanic weight of the Transport pokemon crashed down upon flapped his tail to no avail, gasping for breath after it'd been knocked from her lungs. Her body finally betrayed her, and she could no longer put up a fight.
She collapsed to the deck with a shuddering cry.
"Milotic is unable to battle! Lapras is the winner. Since all Pokémon of the Gym Leader Juan are out, this match goes to Ash Ketchum!"
"Damn right it does!"
And another Gym Battle is under the wraps.
We are progressing in the final stages of Hoenn arc. I can't wait for Ash to return to Kanto.
Next on Back in Action:
Morrison & Mossdeep City Gym Battle
Brendan Birch (Two chapters)
Thank You!