Happy New Year! I sincerely hope 2021 brings you all the happiness and the joy you desire and have much more surprises in store for everyone of us! We made it through 2020 guys and it's really a happy moment to leave all that sorrow behind!
Every year, I make a new year resolution to write new stories, and yet I don't! I have been promising 'True Bonds Can Never Br Broken!' for four years, yet never wrote it. Instead, I amalgamated into this story, and I believe I made the right decision! But where the resolution is a question, this year I hope I find the will inside me to update this story and finish the Sinnoh arc, Unova arc and Kalos arc by 2021, and then finally we will have the Pokemon Coronation Series which will be the end. I also plan to write more, bring out new stories, some drabbles, officially participate in Advanceshipping week and so on. But some plans just need to end, I may not write what I have promised in my profile, as it has been my long and strong desire to write more for other anime.
So I'll update my profile as well, and let you know which stories I plan to write in 2021.
Now, regarding this chapter! Ash and Koga finally meet face to face! They say every Elite Four Master is stronger than the preceding. Can Ash fight Koga's hazardous Pokemon, or does he have a plan to counter them all! How will we know this? By reading the chapter of course!
So PARTY HARD this New Year! And enjoy the first chapter of Back in Action of 2021!
The egg yolk sun poured through the cracks in the blind and awaited entrance into May's eyes. Sight still in the clutches of the night's glue, she hesitantly rubbed the dreams away. Thoughts of the visions in sleep come and go in waves, clinging on to the very last memory of the night but with little success. Half-lidded, she gazed out of the van's window - The sunrise came as if it had missed the sky and wanted nothing more than to warm up those blues to a radiant gold.
The RV was unusually silent today. How come the sounds of snoring were missing today? Misty was peacefully slumbered next to her, and Brock was still under the duvet, possibly enjoying his perverted dreams, if he still had them. She pondered. Where her boyfriend could have gone off to so early in the morning? Some noises disturbed her ominous quietness and she rushed out of the caravan, slowly closing the door and shutting it behind her. Of course!
''And now! Shadow Ball!''
''Gaaaar!''
The dark orb with repulsive forces thrust into the rock, bursting it into shards and pebbles.
''Hey…''
Ash blinked, and turned around, finding himself face-to-face with May. She leaned forward, with her hands behind, going for a morning kiss.
''Sup May, didn't wake you, did I?'' Ash's eyes sparkled passionately, as they pulled apart.
''No you didn't,'' she embraced him. ''Did you sleep well?''
''I couldn't sleep, but possibly because I'm too excited.''
''I'm kinda stoked for you as well, Ash.'' She giggled. ''You're looking good with all that training.''
''O yeah! You still haven't seen the whole package!''
''So you're ready to win this thing huh?'' came a voice straight from the sleepy head behind, as Misty stepped down from the bus.
''You bet I am!''
''Just remember, Koga isn't a trainer whose gonna roll over and let you win,'' she yawned. ''Brock can back me up on this one.''
''Ash, I think I have something for you,'' Brock confided, switching on Ash's Rotom Dex he was trusted with. ''I was just streaming through some of his battles, and look what I found. According to the stats I collected from RotomDex last night,'' Brock came out next, eavesdropped on the conversation. ''Koga hasn't lost a single League Battle in the Tournament. He uses his Pokemon defensively, so your best shot, is take them on the offense.''
''zzz….Hey there, Ash!''
''Sup Rotom, fished up something on Koga yet?''
''Not much in the looks department, but Koga has some real cunning Pokemon in his arsenal. According to the data I pulled, this one is known for its incredible stamina and remarkable strength. Here's a video I downloaded.''
Ash saw the clip studiously that had Koga's Ariados battling against an Ursaring. From the looks of it, the tarantula had the match in its legs, easily defeating the giant bear with a Toxic and Pin Missile combo.
''His strategy is to first make the opponents suffer with pain, and when he goes for the kill, he does it fast and without warning!''
''You have to pace yourself Ash. Make sure you don't come off too strong, and have nothing left for later.'' Brock alarmed. ''Remember something Ash, ''Against him, don't even let down the guard for a second. That is the key,'' Brock added.
''Come on, don't sweat it!'' Ash flashed a thumb. ''Those are just stats. I can take him! No Problem!''
''Pika pika!''
''Gengar…'' he floated above.
''Oh seriously,'' Misty exasperated, shaking her head. ''There's no sense left talking into this guy.''
''Okay guys, if we gotta win! We are gonna have to give it more than hundred percent! We are gonna hit them with everything we got!'' Ash exuded confidence, gearing up for the battle this afternoon, wit one of the toughest trainers of Kanto.
''Gengar!''
''Chu!''
''Gengar huh?'' Brock hummed, holding his chin. ''You didn't tell us you had one.''
''The same one from Lavender Town?'' Misty questioned.
''I actually have two of them. One from Lavender Town, that's back home, and this one I caught in Professor Cerise's Lab in Vermillion City.''
''How would you know the difference?'' Misty pursed her lips.
''Cause else, I would have been pranked thrice if it were for the other Gengar.''
''Hmmm…Gengar is the most apt choice for today,'' Brock noted. ''Supernatural powers, and resistance to Poison Types, it certainly fits well.''
''He is my ace for tonight,'' Ash brushed Gengar's fur. ''And once I toast that full-of-words ninja, I'm gonna be off to face Master Bruno!''
''I'm with you Bro!'' Brock fist pumped. ''Now let's get some hot breakfast in you!''
''Yeah! That'll be great!''
Determined, Ash balled his fists with fury. ''Koga, I'm coming for you!''
Pokeballs clipped and supplies stocked up, the gang stood on the threshold of the Forbidden Forest, that laid between them and the decided terrain of the battlefield. Leaving behind the modern city of Fuschia, they took their first step into the lush jungles, Misty entering a bit reluctantly, since places like these teemed with bug types.
The forest itself was alive with the calls of bug type Pokémon, the babbling of brooks, and the occasional bird-song of a flying type. The further they traveled from the city, the wetter the forest became. At first, it had been deciduous trees putting out blossom-buds and other seasonal flora preparing for spring. The further into the forest they got, though, the further south they went and the distinct border between northern Kanto and southern Kanto made itself known with the humidity level. Even the rocks were now lined thickly with moss in the shade of trees and numerous, shallow streams flowed over rocky paths in the sparse sunlight.
The jungle was an assault on all senses. The virescent hues were the foreground, the background and as high up as you could see. The heat and humidity pressed in on the skin making sweat pointless. The sounds of the insects, the birds and the larger Pokemon created a symphony of nature calling you deeper. The leaves brushed up against you and your feet sprung up with each step. The air tasted both sweet and fresh, like flowers blooming on your tongue.
"Why can't they just have their battle at the gym?" May whined, splashing through an ankle deep brook. The soggy grass squelched beneath her shoes.
''Damn ninjas…'' Misty joined in complaining.
"They're tricky," Ash ominously stated, not exactly answering May's question. He paused as Pikachu used Iron Tail lift a bramble branch up out of their way. "The element of surprise is everything to them, so it's no wonder they're so out of the way. I think me and Brock and Misty found this place by accident the first time…"
...cutting their way through the dense, suffocating undergrowth, fighting through the very air, which hung heavy, moist and still. Trees tall as cathedrals surrounded them, and a strange green light - almost holy - shimmered through the vast canopy of leaves. The rain forest seemed to have an intelligence of it's own. It's voice was the sudden screech of a parrot, the flicker of a monkey swinging through the branches overhead. It knew they were there.
So far they had been lucky. The had been attacked, of course, by leeches and mosquitoes and stinging ants. But the Ekans and Skorupis had left them alone. The rivers they had crossed had been free of Carvanhas. They had been allowed to survive.
They passed through the canopy, they continued on their trek, pushing themselves deep in the forest, where now the question of navigating their way back was frightening. Trudging to a stop, they reached their destination. Facades are quite an impressive thing. In front of them, stood the dark woods, the heart of the forests whose entry was protected by the fog. They could see a silhouette of the building: With its towering heights no taller than the canopy of the forest and traditional, dull coloration making it drab enough to be an unlikely find from a distance, this misplaced castle felt like a relic from an era long gone.
''I don't see anyone here,'' May groaned. ''We are lost, aren't we?''
Two ninjas in black uniform zipped right in front of them out of the fog, startling the duo of girls.
"Oh," she dumbly said, her answer looming before her. Clearly, they didn't want visitors just waltzing in.
''Identify yourselves!'' one of them raised their heads.
''I'm Ash Ketchum! I come here to challenge Koga!''
''I'm Doctor Brock, former Gym Leader of Pewter City and this is Misty, the Gym Leader of Cerulean City. Your leader knows us well.''
''And the last one…she doesn't seem from here.''
''I…umm…''
''She's May. She's with me.'' Ash declared, making May rush back and stand behind him.
''Very well,'' they stood up. ''As our protocol, we are obligated to check your belongings.''
Realizing security had probably beefed up with their clan leader's presence, Ash nodded. ''Yeah, go ahead.''
With no monkey business found, and every item seeming a necessity, the two guards nodded before letting them pass.
''Please go on ahead. Pass through this gate and you will find Master Koga waiting…we wish you luck''
''Alright, let's go gang!'' Ash pumped up, walking right into the fog. About time they'd gain the clearance. But something felt very still and suspiciously silent. He heard no footsteps behind him.
''Guys?'' he turned around, finding himself the only one in the thick haze. He raced out as fast as he could, to find all three of them were missing, and so were the shadow ninjas. Perplexed, he scanned his surroundings. They were so professional and masters in their art, they had left no trace or a visible clue.
''Oh man!'' he spat. ''Right before my huge battle?!"
Cursing, he burst inside the abandoned relic house, knowing well the rules of the game. Pass the trick house and find your friends standing on the other end. At least, that's how the pattern has always been.
So far, that was. It started off looking innocent enough, a rather plain-looking hallway with polished, wooden floors. No wooden creeks, no hidden doors, no trick wall. There was no sign of anyone else around. He kept sauntering, looking for a clue or any exit that took him at the opposite ends. From one room to another, he strolled yet no avail of a passage. There was the occasional doorway, each decorated in a rather traditional style. Last time he'd been here, though, they certainly hadn't been the way around.
"Huh… I guess they renovated this place. It looks a lil different. But I swear I remember one of the walls leading to a secret passage last time."
Ash slowly checked each section, either putting his weight on it by pressing both hands against it or slightly touching it with his feet. It was a little funny, actually.
Soon enough, he pressed against the right wall… And, fell through!
"Augh!" he yelled, falling flat on his face with the wall. "I was… Expecting it to swing open…"
He sat up, brushing the dust of his clothes. ''I hate this place!''
His irk was further fueled by the sound of metallic voices and electric crackles. Looking over, he paled a little bit. A small herd of Electrodes and Voltorbs was waiting around him!
"Voooool-!" half of the group cried in unison.
"-Trode!" the other half snarled.
''b-e-a-utiful…''
Together, they fired a collective attack. It was massive, snaking like a yellow-white dragon towards the heroic party.
Ash, thankfully, was knew how to withstand that. ''Donphan come on out!''
The ground type elephant appeared, holding all the jolts in himself, his immunity to electric types worked like a charm.
Pikachu landed between his trainer and the herd of other electric types, little yellow brows furrowed. "Pika," he warned, tail raised in a threat display. If they wanted a battle, he could certainly give it to them!
Thankfully, that was unnecessary. Perhaps triggered by the abundant electricity fired at it, a part of the ceiling fell down… Revealing a staircase.
"Crafty!'' Ash beamed, snatching Pikachu and returning Donphan to his capsule and raced up the stairs. No sooner than had the duo had made it upstairs than a second jolt of electricity bound off the stair case. Thankfully, it was shut and everyone was safe.
He breathed out a sigh of relief, a hand on the wall for support.
"Well, that was dangerous enough for me to think we're going the right way," Ash commented, dusting his hands off. "Thanks for that back there, Pikachu." Looking around, the trainer acknowledged their surroundings before letting out a tired huff. He put his hands on his hips.
They had arrived into a large room that seemed like a dojo kind, and his eyes fell on a door. Ash furrowed his brows and dashed, only to hit something hard.
''Of course,'' he groaned, rubbing his swollen red nose. ''Had to be an invisible wall here.''
They tapped on the wall, knowing that they were all around blocking the way. Amidst all these walls there was at least one passage that led them to the door across.
"Okay, this is ridiculous,'' he rasped, pulling out a Pokeball. ''Noctowl, come on out!''
Chirping, the owl appeared from his Pokeball.
''Noctowl, Foresight! Find a hidden opening between these glasses!''
Partially rotating his head, Noctowl took a deep concentrating on his eyes, sending invisible psywaves across the room. He could distinctly visualize all the transparent invisible walls, and began to identify the finger prints in them. Crowing, he signaled Ash, fluttering his wings to guide them across. Ash plodded behind, Pikachu holding on. Each swayed across the imperceptible maze of walls, and made it through.
''Thank you, Noctowl!'' Ash greeted, recalling the bird. To be used later against an Elite, it would be best for his Pokemon not to spend unnecessary energy.
As he went for the knob, the wind signaled Ash of some sort. Within the room, the trainer heard something, or somethings, whirling through the air followed by a series of thunks in the wall. Well, that was troubling. Plodding to the sides, Ash threw himself away from the door, knowing the trials were not yet over. Pikachu clung desperately to the back of his jacket, looking none too happy about… Whatever had just happened. Huffing Ash looked at the door, to study what he'd been dodging.
Black, razor-sharp projectiles had buried their points in the door, thankfully free of any horrors they could have dealt out, had they been a bit more accurate.
"Just what in the world is that about!?" Ash fumed, somewhere between a heart attack and blind fury. "I could have been killed!"
A figure dropped down from the ceiling. Stepping forward, a woman with a haughtily raised chin stepped forward from the shadows. "Pathetic…yet you passed."
"Uh, nuh-uh, you don't say" Ash taunted back, cockily leaning forward with his hands on his hips. "There's not a scratch on… me… anywhere."
"Can't catch a freakin' break," he grumbled, straightening up. ''You're the same quirky looking girl aren't you? Janine wasn't it?''
''I see you have met my niece…'' the kunoichi giggled, taking her mask off. She wore long, prestigious looking garment of a dark, dusty shade of rose. Her hair was done up practically, though both her hair and her outfit were lightly decorated with small ornaments, marking her as the temporary clan leader. She looked mature enough.
''Aya?''
"I'm unaware if you know, Ash, but I am the gym leader, now. It was my brother's wish that every challenger must go through these trials. Also, the shurikens were my niece's request, and I can't say no to her.''
''Yeah,…going for lengths such as assassinate someone?'' Cocking his head, the trainer looked at her for a moment, wondering if she was being serious. ''Any clue where my friends are?"
The temporary leader paused. "They have been transported to the battlefield already.''
''So it's just me whose pending?''
''Yes, and now that you have cleared all the tests, go on!'' Aya commanded. "I wish to see how you fare against my brother after beating him previously!"
Throwing a smoke ball, she vanished…
Ash couldn't help but shake his head. "Geez…I gotta learn how to do that.''
Ash could feel the darkness drawing closer to him and pressing down, suffocating him slowly as he stepped carefully through the thick maze of woodland. The densely packed trees loomed high above, but remained still despite the icy breeze that continued to flow around him. The golden sunlight was slowed to a trickle by the full branches, and Ash had to squint, only to see a path of gloom and uncertainty ahead.
May heard a small rustle in the bushes, as she peered to her right. Pikachu hopped into the clearing first, slowly trailed by Ash, who was panting. Panicked, she left her seat and lunged at him practically, with a bottle of water. Misty and Brock followed suit.
''Ash!'' she dreaded the fatigue on his face before the huge battle. ''You okay?''
''Yeah…just thirsty.'' Ash panted, taking a huge sip of the fluids. Wiping is mouth, ''You had no idea of my struggles back there. That was the house of trials…hey you did you guys get here so quickly?!''
''OH yeah,'' Misty blushed sheepishly, ''Those ninja guys took us to a secret passage. One second we were at the gate, the next we found ourselves here.''
''Here…''
Even the soft susurration of the branches felt heavy in the ears. The sense of smell was sensitized, the loam in the earth and the decomposing leaves made the atmosphere close and thick. The blackness nurtured a sense of claustrophobia inside even though the woodland stretched unbroken for miles. The narrow path, which was made uneven by the knotted roots that crossed it, branched at intervals. Black trunks against an almost black backdrop doesn't make for much too see and his imagination begins to supply horrors to fill the void. The bare branches spiked into the sky - no sign of life to be found anywhere. It was so dark you were barely able to see where you were going. There were only small sounds of rustling bushes and the howl of the wind. You didn't know what laid in the dark forest, all you knew was that it wasn't going to be a peaceful journey. There was a small pool of dirty water, that bubbled with poisonous acids.
''Some place huh?'' Ash wheezed, getting up on his legs.
Ash accepted the granola bars Brock kept handy, and took a huge chew of it. Some hustle and bustle caught the attention of his ears, and he looked straight. The officials were ready to set the field of the battle. The official who judged his previous battle against Lorelei, Mr Thomas, was already steady checking some equipment, ready on the median point of the battle. And far, right across, there stood Koga, leaning against the bark of a tree. Arms crossed, eyes closed, as if he was in some sort of meditation. Dressed in the same uniform as others with a bit of more clothing that should identify him as the clan leader, he kept his cool demeanor.
''Hey, we start in ten minutes okay,'' one official notified Ash. ''The commentators haven't arrived yet.''
''Yeah, cool!'' Ash answered with a wave. ''Guys, mind holding Pikachu for me.''
Nodding in agreement, Misty acquired Pikachu him, and they didn't waste any more seconds, taking their seats in a far away bench from the field. With his friends comfortable and grinning, he put on his impassive stoic face and meandered to the tree where Koga reclined. The ninja acknowledged his presence, but didn't move a muscle.
''Hey, Mr. Koga remember me?'' he humbly extended a hand, that wasn't met with.
''Your battle with Lorelei was quite the eye-catcher…'' Koga started. ''I must say you pull the wool over eyes. Sadly, I'm the expert of that.''
''Expert perhaps?'' Ash pointed his thumb at himself. ''I'm the legend known for that.''
''Do not get over your head, young man. A rookie mistake Lorelei made,'' Koga stood up, meeting eye to eye. ''Your enthusiasm is admirable, yet not enough to defeat me.''
''I ain't planning to beat you with enthusiasm alone, sir.'' Ash smirked. ''I know you're gonna play dirty, and I'm all up for your jutsus.''
''I'm glad we were fated to meet once again. You have come at a truly opportune time. I was just thinking that I wanted to test my newly refined sinister techniques... in a battle that will end in your utter defeat! Today I'll not only defeat you, but I will also demonstrate my fatherly dignity to my daughter!''
''So you want to make this personal huh?'' Ash cocked his brows. ''Very well, I would have hated embarrassing you, but looks like I'll enjoy it!''
''Hmmm…I gotta a match to win and bring honor to my clan…if you excuse me,'' Koga impassively walked off on Ash, taking his position on the field.
Ash grumpily stared at his back. ''Well, until your clan pulls out weird stuff from their eyes, they're useless.'' He blew a raspberry. ''So glad I own entire collection of Shippuden.''
The sounds of whirling blades caught their eyes, and everyone raised their heads, spotting a chopper flying above them. From the ropey stairs, the same commentator descended down, a mike ready in his hands.
''Oh great…this chump again…'' Ash pouted.
With gusto, the announcer roared. ''Hello folks! This is Mark Topper, live again, straight from the Forbidden Forests in the hills of Fuschia! As spooky it sounds, looks like we are all set with the second League Battle of the season, with the young sensation, Ash Ketchum taking on the fierce and devious Poison Master, Koga! This is an absolutely picture perfect day for the battle about to begin in mere minutes!''
The jet black flat screen that was being tested upon, flickered with lights, and came alive, displaying Ash's face in one corner, and Koga's features in the other. Five boxes below each faces were empty, only to be filled when their Pokemon would appear. The officials had taken their places, and the battle was indicated set to begin.
With one final glance at Koga, Ash passed through his field, taking up a spot where he meant to stand. Koga huffed. As reluctant as he was to admit it, the punk did have some talent to back up his brutish bravado. This boy alone had brought down the very strongest trainers in his entire family. Himself, his sister, and the latest victim to fall was none other than his daughter.
May, Misty and Brock looked on with anxiety.
Thomas stepped forward, his official badge shining on his shirt.
''This is an official Pokemon League Challenge! With Ash's victory over Lorelei, he will now battle against Master Koga of the Elite Four! The rules of this battle will be the same as last with. With no objection from Koga, each Trainer will choose five Pokemon, and this battle ends when the entire team of either Trainer is unable to continue. There will be no usage of items such as status ailments and if found, the said Trainer will be disqualified, resulting in the opposition's win. Mega Evolution, Z-Moves and Dynamaxing Pokemon will be frowned upon. The Four move limit is lifted, and there is no time limit for this battle! Are the rules clear?''
''Yes!''
''They shall be honored.''
''Very well, as per the League Rules, Koga will choose his First Pokemon, and Ash Ketchum will make the first move!'' the judge stepped back.
With a weave of few hand signs that were a ninja's show of display, Koga chucked a Pokeball with a disciplined, precision, bursting in mid-air. Flashes of lights traveled straight in the dirty pool. Moments later, something floated up the surface. The main body of the creature was a shimmering, pulsating mass of blue with two large, red orbs on either side and smaller orb in the center. Beneath it, a mass of tentacles covered with circular stingers twisted in the water, at least four feet long. One touch from the tentacles and the victim would drown for sure. The blue beak or blade it was, was brandished forward, battle ready.
''Hey Brock, that's the evolved form of Tentacool, right?'' May gulped.
''Yes..''. May shuddered at the doctor's nod.
''You okay?'' Misty blinked.
''Nothing, just some bad memories…''
''A Tentacruel, huh?'' Ash smirked, pulling out a Pokeball and throwing it straight. ''Alright, Donphan, let's go!''
Donphan tore his way out of the capsule, landing with a loud quake, and raised his armored trunk to trumpet loudly. The Jellyfish immediately hissed upon his opponent's arrival. Donphan in return powered his tusks. If the poison type wanted a fight, it was gonna get one!
''Both players have chosen their first Pokemon folks,'' the commentator hushed. ''Ash Ketchum knows how to have a good time, and he's no slouch on the field. With Koga on the other hand, who has never tasted defeat in League Matches, how will Ash prevent his Pokemon from the torture Koga brings on the table?!''
''Using Tentacruel, I know, he plans to use it s ability to Camouflage in the water! I got this!''
''Ash, forget everything and just concentrate!'' Misty hollered.
''No pressure, baby! Just win!'' May screamed.
''Baby?'' Misty casted a side smirk in question.
''Oh yeah…'' May giggled. ''Our relationship is soon to reach its carnal point…''
''Oh good for you…''
''We are seconds away from the start and it's to close in to call!''
''The battle begins in…'' the referee began to countdown. ''Three…Two…One! Battle Begin!''
''Donphan! Sandstorm right into the pool!''
Fanning his trunk, a monstrously dense sandstorm assaulted the field, blinding everyone's vision that was hindering inside the field. A cyclone brewed itself on the pool, make the large Jellyfish accelerate into dizziness.
''And this battle is underway! And a vicious storm has arrived on the field already!''
Huge masses of Sand began to pour inside the dirty pool, giving away Tentacruel's hideout. Drowning, Tentacruel made the best use of its tentacles to surface up, marking an angry glare upon Donphan.
''Tentacruel, use Reflect Type!''Koga commanded, face shielded by a mask to protect against Sandstorm.
Dancing its tentacles in a swaying motion, Tentacruel enveloped itself in the same multicolored aura that Donphan was frantically attempting to get off. Using an odd power, both Pokemon now shared the same type.
''As expected…'' Ash smirked. ''Donphan, use Ice Shard!''
The ground type summoned huge boulders of ice, to be shot at the Jellyfish. The concussive masses of frozen water struck Tentacruel, drawing shrieks as it was tumbled to the edge of the marshed pool.
''Amazing…'' May gaped. ''What power.''
''didn't know Donphan could use Ice Shard…'' Misty looked on as well.
''Must be something he picked up from Dawn's Mamoswine,'' Brock fell in a deep thought. ''He just bottomed up Koga's strategy, in a way I suspect he wanted to. After using Reflect Type, Tentacruel became a Ground Type, thus vulnerable against Ice Shard, but I wonder…did Koga allow this?''
''Tentacruel…Toxic Spikes!''
As much as Ash hated it, he had anticipated this. Raising its beak towards the sky, Tentacruel fired huge batch of toxic stings into the air. They split, ready to shower upon the field.
''Sandstorm, right on the field!'' Ash countered.
''Phaannnnn….''
Perfectly familiar with the ramifications of the move, Donphan stirred another brew of coughing sand, right from particles of the ground. A downdraft of wind hit the ground and blew dust or sand into the air, creating a wall of sediment that preceding the rest of the storm. Toxic Spikes was waved away in the Sandstorm, never reaching the ground.
"Persistent, but not very smart," Koga muttered. "Hydro Pump, Tentacruel!''
The command was enough to put Ash on alert. With furrowed brow, he swiped a hand across the air, '' Donphan, Hyper Beam!''
''Perhaps, we all should get back!''
A powerful beam that cracked the proximate field, Donphan released the orange energy shooting it right on the gush headed for him. Hyper Beam split Hydro Pump's jet down the middle, like a hot knife through butter. Steam rose from the impact, and flashes of heat lashed out at both competitors. Donphan recoiled, while the Tentacruel was unhindered.
Donphan's power left a smile on Ash's face, and he leaned forward, glaring daggers at their opponent. With Donphan numb for a few seconds, Ash knew Koga would seize this opportunity.
''Sludge Wave!''
Swamping the pool with purple excreta, the cursed Pokemon launched a huge purple torrent of sludge and poison. The poison wave pulverized Donphan, burning any resistance he had to poison type attacks. Drenched in the liquid, Donphan trumpeted, obviously poisoned!
''Damn…To say Toxic Spikes weren't bad enough…'' Ash grit. ''Donphan, you okay?''
''Phan…'' the pachyderm grit, but kind enough to respond.
''Punish it! Hydro Pump!'' Koga ordered.
Ash wasted no time, pointing towards Tentacruel. ''Rollout of its way!''
Cringing with hatred, and bulbs flashing red, the Jellyfish prepared the highly pressurized jet. The Hydro Pump pushed its body backwards a little bit, but it firmed its tentacles in so as to get a better aim. The Torrent followed Donphan wherever he tucked and rolled, creating wet trenches on the field. Donphan, however, even in poisoned state proved efficiently fast, rolling around the pool filled with sand. With Tentacruel's large body, it became a slight challenge for the water type to shoot Hydro Pump at a 360 degree angle.
"Looks like they're starting out strong! How intense." May leaned forward in her seat.
"Yeah. But, I wonder what that's going to mean for Ash." Brock frowned. "They look even, but…"
Misty finished. "If he keeps the brute force up, it could be bad."
Finally Donphan stopped at the edge of the pool, panting from the invading toxins in his system.
''Tentacruel, Screech!''
Raising its tentacles surrounded by a flaming blue aura, the middle red gem on Tentacruel's forehead blinked red. A sign of danger perhaps. Loud sounds and multiples waves of screeching noise filled Donphan's ears, disarming him.
''Use Hex!''
The water type raised her tentacles, and wisps of violet energy followed, gathering above her head. The eerie energy wove together, combining to form what looked to be a huge red eye .
Ash swallowed. A flurry of crimson rings blasted from its iris, pulverizing Donphan, making him retract his face away from the pool.
"It may be a ghost type move, but it's nasty to any pokemon with a status affliction," Brock informed.
The elephant quavered, pushing upon shuddering legs. Ghastly pain and uncomfortable heat kept him from doing much more than sitting up. Arrived the uninvited toxins, adding more fuel to the pain. Half-lidded eyes remained open, though, still stubborn.
''I'm getting tired and want to finish this quick,'' Koga crossed his arms, huffing. ''Use Poison Jab!''
Donphan looked straight ahead, barely catching the sight of a huge purple blade slamming into him. He sprawled across the ground, groaning as more venomous toxins seeped into his skin.
''Man, can Tentacruel give a beating and Donphan take one,'' Misty sighed.
''Tentacruel's power is…zzzz…off the charts!''
''Don't sweat the details, Rotom. The battle has just started and I'm sure Ash will do just as fine…'' Misty grinned.
''For now…But if this keeps up the hill….Donphan will be smashed through smithereens..zzzz!''
''Oh man…he's nailing us good,'' Ash grimaced, watching closely. His irises fell on the dirty pool, and something caught his eye. ''Hey wait a sec, I got it!'
''Donphan, let's try something here, buddy! You in?''
''…phann…'' in a loud exasperated respire, Donphan nodded with the best enthusiasm he could.
''All right, it's do or die then….Fissure!''
''Phaann….hannn….!''
Donphan stomped the ground, sending violent shockwaves. Every presence stumbled upon as the earth below began to thrash. The water in the pool rumbled by the roiling ground, rising to slosh and splatter out. The brutality caused the field to rip open apart which resulted giant desiccation of the field into two.
''The Earth has been cracked open folks!''
Tentacruel blinked in befuddlement, as the water inside the pool lost to the seismic activity. Waterlines began to droop, leaking into the cracks on the pool floor, taking Tentacruel towards the drainage. In a loud burp, the earth digested the dirty pool water leaving the JellyFish wide exposed to attacks.
Koga scoffed looking on.
''You thought I wouldn't get it, would you?'' Ash smirked, gaining the ninja's attention. ''As long as Tentacruel was in the pool, it was safe, but its slight discomfort didn't fool my eye when it became a Ground Type. Of course, being a Pokemon of the Elite Four, it's trained to withstand such conditions. But the real deal was it was absorbing the water to expand its tentacles, one of its resourceful abilities, ain't it? I just happened to have notice the decrease in the water level, before I made my move. Smart, wasn't I?''
''Pretty clever,'' Koga grinned. ''Manipulating the field, best ninja art it is! Plays right to your strength..''
''Here it goes….'' Rotom danced around.
''Hey Rotom, give us the low-down here will you?'' Misty requested.
''Certainly, Ash exploited Tentacruel's use of constantly absorbing water to power up its tentacles. With the earth now broken, Tentacruel has no place to hide.''
''I knew that!'' Misty snapped.
''Ash predicted if Tentacruel knew the move Acid Armor, it would have toyed a longer around…''
''That was ingenious…'' Brock hummed.
''You're pretty quick,'' Koga smirked. ''But I'm afraid, you were right...''
Weaving hand signs, he commanded. ''Wring Out!''
Gelatinous elongated tendrils circled around Donphan's legs, pulling him inside the water hole in with a tight, unforgiving grip. With pricks from the poison already, life was now being squeezed out of him.
''And the relentless squeezing has begun! I am not sure how longer can Donphan take it!''
Yelping from the pressure applied to his abdomen, the armored elephant writhed and squirmed. With his forelegs prisoned, though, the struggle only bought him an irritating, mocking chant from the successful predator. He was already bracing to be swallowed whole.
''Donphan!'' Ash called, clutching his fists. The sight of a pokemon being restrained against their will was the last thing he wanted to see right now. He was having a hard time thinking his way out of this, in fact, focusing on chasing the unsavory thoughts out of his head like a pesky Beedrill.
Koga bore a smile, using hands to bore another sign. ''Giga Drain!''
Tendrils latched on Donphan converted into energy-soaking vines, and Tentacruel began to liberally snatch his energy, regaining whatever he lost.
Ash bristled as Donphan squealed out in pain.
''And furthermore, Giga Drain is sucking up a sizeable portion of Donphan's strength! With combined with poison, Donphan can't catch a break!''
''Alright! Donphan, I know a way out….Ice Shard and create a big one!''
''Dofff…'' The Armor Pokemon managed to sight Ash before his consciousness could fade away. He wasn't sure what his trainer was up to… but, he'd do his best! Pouring his ice type power into his mouth, he willed a huge block of ice infront of his tusks he could muster.
"I'm not sure what Ash is trying to pull," Brock mused
''Now, time to eat it!''
"Say, what!?" Misty blurted out.
''Eat an Ice Shard…for a ground type?'' May blinked.
''I see,'' Brock smiled. ''That's what he's upto…''
When the shard was bounced off his trunk, Donphan chomped it down. Suddenly, his body felt freezing cold, and amusing. He felt his hide growing something. Long, pricking and sharp icicles protruded from his back, spiking into Tentacruel. The water type shrieked in pain, letting go off Donphan and crashed into a wall of pit behind.
"What the!?" Misty shouted.
"Well, that's new!" May remarked, next.
''It's his signature move,'' Brock smiled. ''
''I am gonna have it practice with Glaceon…'' May smirked.
With a stern expression, shouted. "Alright Donphan, use Rollout!''
''Phaannn…'' he charged forward.
''Get out of that hole!'' Koga scowled.
Firming its tentacles outside, Tentacruel made a breakout by jumping out in the clearing.
''How do you plan to get out now?'' Koga cocked a brow. ''We have got you cornered! Use Hex!''
Making its move right when the weakness was sensed, Tentacruel's eerie dark beam collided with Donphan once again, the mysterious dark eye was fast enough to look into the dark recesses of Donphan, exploiting it, making him stagger a few steps behind.
''Oh come on…'' Ash grit. ''How am I supposed to get Donphan out?''
''phannnn…''
Once again his body oozed purple, poison lowering his vitality.
''Alright, Donphan, try this! Rock Tomb in that hole!''
A sobering shout boomed through the air, followed by Donphan pushing itself to his feet, fierce eyes centered on its formidable opponent. Despite Koga's hopes and suspicions, it wasn't down for the count just yet. A cloud of dust appeared above the hole, pouring large boulders inside.
''I can't believe it! He's laddering his way out!'' Koga gawked.
And so it was true. Donphan hopped on one rock above the other sediment, eventually the hole was filled with boulders, and the pachyderm was out in no time. Ear spread wide, and tusks raised, even the tail horizontal, all visual warnings that Donphan was now in a foul mood.
''Didn't expect us to sit there for long did ya?'' Ash teased.
Maybe later, Koga would have time to appreciate the irony.
Hoping for the best, Ash followed up. 'Sandstorm!''
Donphan rumbled approvingly, lifting his armored trunk. The air grew hazy once again, and the thick sand surrounded the marshland, whipped up in a frenzy, growing into a full-blown sandstorm. Koga grimaced, angered that his growing advantage had suddenly been cut off.
A dash of sand invaded Tentacruel's eyes. It shut its eyes and thrashed its tentacles, spraying acids missing completely!
''You know my Pokemon can see yours, don't you,'' Ash smirked, brushing a finger under his nose. ''Rock Tomb!''
Shimmering rocks shot into the sandy fray, assaulting Tentacruel, but mostly the barrage created pillars around the Jellyfish, avoiding its escape. A wail from Donphan alarmed Ash he had to make his strategy ghastly quick.
''Tentacruel, use Screech!''
Loud wails of pain busted the stones into rubbles, and the power of the shockwaves blustered against the Sandstorm, but the latter seemed much stronger for the soundwaves to overpower.
''They look evenly matched…''Brock remarked.
''Hydro Pump!''
A new torrent pulverized Donphan, skidding backwards. The jet left his body caked with mud. Donphan replied with an indignant trumpet.
Ash called out in worry. "You're not hurt too bad, are you?"
The Armor Pokemon shook his head, with a more of a prideful answer than an honest one.
''I must marvel Donphan' endurance,'' Misty whispered. ''Having taken repeated super-effective attacks back to back and poisoned on top of that, he still continues to fight.''
''The Pokemon mirrors a trainer's personality, it's true,'' Brock nodded.
Eyes upon the Jellyfish narrowed, for whom Donphan really had no love to begin with. A loud, feral cry grabbed its attention, and everyone else's. And, Tentacruel was met with a harsh, violent gaze from inside the lingering Sandstorm, it stopped screeching. Large fangs were bared, and the irises within the onyx orbs narrowed to barely visible slits. A dark aura, somehow, was cast from Donphan's stare.
Even as a terrifying creature itself, Tentacruel shuddered. Having trained for years under one of the strongest trainers, this shouldn't happened, but this face was gonna seed nightmares. In its fright, Tentacruel found itself struggling to move.
''That was a Scary Face…'' Ash observed. ''didn't know Donphan could use that…''
And what an opportunity, Ash thought. They were still shielded behind the Sandstorm. Maybe, now was a perfect time to go for the kill.
''Donphan, Hyper Beam!''
Driven by rage rather than obliged to follow Ash's command, Donphan was eager to retaliate. Having had a moment to regain his strength, he released the destructive beam at his former captor. The weakened Tentacruel was now an easy target.
With a loud boom in the battlefield, the Hyper Beam sure had hit something, but was it a success? This darn Sandstorm was shielding it all. Seconds passed, the Sand problem was solved as well. Sapped out of its raged, the winds calmed down and the field became clear once again.
An unconscious Tentacruel laid in a small crater that Hyper Beam had tore on the field.
''Woo-hoo! Awesome Job, Donphan!'' Ash jumped with gusto.
Donphan didn't respond.
Ash's dance was slowed, as he looked on in puzzlement. Normally, after a victory, Donphan would roll to him to earn a well-deserved pat on the head.
''Donphan?''
Donphan stood on the field, unmoving. The pupils in Donphan's eyes had disappeared. He had lost consciousness.
The referee inspected their conditions before making his decision. ''Both Pokemon are unable to continue. Therefore, this round is declared as a draw!''
Blinking, the lights went off on the screen, and both images of Donphan and Tentacruel were now blocked, never to lit again.
''This session ends in a final tie! Who would have expected?! Not me! I am announcer, not a fortune teller! And not a highly paid one!''
"...Return, Donphan." Exhaling, Ash recalled his pokemon, staring down at his pokeball. "You did your very best, out there. Thank you."
A red flash recoiled Tentacruel as well, as Koga sternly gazed at the Pokeball. His anger wasn't directed at the Pokemon, but himself. His tactics had failed to keep Donphan at bay.
''Poor Donphan…'' May mourned. ''All the poisoning wore him down eventually. But he gave a fabulous performance.''
''Not just poisoning…'' Brock replied. ''Donphan was fighting with half his strength sapped. Imagine taking on an Elite Four Pokemon with just that.''
"Pikachu." Pikachu frowned, his tail flicking behind him. "Talk about an unlucky break."
"So, what do you think will happen next?" Misty asked, watching Ash curiously. ''hasn't Koga already gotta a whiff of his techniques?''
"I'm not sure…" Brock shrugged in response. He cast an eye on the former gym leader, who stood still as a statue, "But it looks like he wasn't expecting to be in this position, at least not this early."
The trainer wiped sweat from his brow, smiling to himself. "Somehow, I got the feeling it'll only get tougher from here."
''Your timing with your arts were impeccable, young man. Persistent I see. But how will you fare against this one?''Another sphere was tossed by Koga, calling on colorful, patterned arachnid. It clicked its feelers together, eager to stalk its prey. Or, what it viewed as prey, at least.
''Ariados!''
''Here I go! Noctowl, I choose you!'' Ash hollered, detaching the Pokeball from his belt and swinging in forward. Red stars glittered around Noctowl as he crooned, quickly landing on the field, tapping his talons on the ground with anticipation. He gave Ariados an appraising stare, blinking oddly and cocking his head at an angle. His opponent was a bug? Okay, here comes the extermination.
''Knowing Ariados, they are gonna lure us in some sort of trap,'' The trainer's eyes narrowed, his mouth surprisingly zipped shut. This was no time to give away his concerns. 'We've gotta play it safe if we wanna end this quick.'
''urggg…'' Misty's face welcomed the purple streaking lines of disgust and fright.
''What's up, Misty?'' May tilted her head.
''Bad memories…'' Misty repeated.
''And both trainers are trying to make up for the last round by sending out their new combatants, and this time with vengeance! You gotta totally watch out for these Pokemon, as they are sweet one second, and terrifying the other! With Noctowl's psychic abilities and super strong flying advantages, it will be a force to reckon with, but I have a feeling Koga is prepared for that!''
''Begin!''
''Noctowl! Ominous Wind!''
Another predator prepared for action. A purple, hazey breeze blew up from off Noctowl's wings, the impact of which sent Ariados barreling over.
Straightening up the spider scampered upon the earth with gentle ticking feet, not too pleasant. The Owl's body took a dark shimmer, right after the repulsive wind dissipated.
''What's happening to Noctowl?'' May questioned, the move beyond her knowledge.''
''I believe those are the secondary effects of Ominous Wind. It raises all the user's stats at once after the move is used,'' Brock supplied. ''Kind of like Ancient Power.''
''Swords Dance!''Koga ordered.
The crawling arachnid moved as if to an inner tempo beat. Sharp astral swords revolved around it in a dance.
''We got something for it…Psych Up!'' Ash threw a hand to the sky with a passionate roar.
With his peripheral vision, Noctowl glared deep into Ariados, recognizing which stat it had powered up. With perfect hypnotism, he mimicked the sudden change in power, copying it, and raising his own.
''Full of tricks huh? As a ninja, I applaud that!'' Koga muttered.
''Extrasensory!''
Noctowl swooped down, readying a shimmering golden beam of energy.
''Sucker Punch!''
Ariados' body took on a disturbingly dark purple hue, a limb shrouded in darkness struck at Noctowl, striking him across the face.
''Oh that's not good…'' Ash muttered.
Noctowl craning his neck, flew at an elevation over the ground. Okay, rule one, never get too close to the ground.
''Air Slash!''
Noctowl spread his wings to ascend the sky. Stopping himself above with a sudden motion, he growled, summoning the crystal blue energy. The ball swirled into acceleration, warning to slice anything that would come in contact with it. With a cry, it was launched down in a mighty rain of debris.
''Ariados, Double Team!''
With a grit, a herd of illusionary Ariados were prepared forth, crawling all over the field, further enhancing Misty's disgust. The pressurized sphere of wind exploded a small portion of the ground, otherwise futile.
''Toxic Thread!''
The copies of the Long Leg Pokemon hissed simultaneously, each parting their fangs to spew out slew of silk of acidic concentration. Multiples poisonous threads in the neatest parcel of silk swaddled the owl, eliciting a screech from the bird, as the poison had claimed another new victim today.
''Damn…that was the very thing we were avoiding…'' Ash grit.
Flight restricted, Noctowl dropped on the floor, struggling to claw out the cocoon of violet silk. Perspiration began to take over the Owl Pokemon, as the seeping poisons began to eat something inside of him.
''Oh dear…'' May's forehead began to sweat. ''Not again…''
With aim achieved, the multiple spiders merged back into one, as the arachnid began its approach of torture towards the bird.
''Wow! That was hardcore! With Noctowl now wrapped up, Koga isn't gonna let it regain its balance!''
''Leech Life!''
The spider walked on delicate tips over the dust leaving it as pristine behind as it was in front. Strong teeth sunk into Noctowl's meat, making the bird beat itself and squirm on the ground. Vitality began to leave him and to the new owner, making the bird's eyes droop.
''Ouch! More bad news for Noctowl!''
"You should've seen it coming," Koga taunted. "As a ninja, laying traps and confounding opponents is my specialty. Luring you into defeat is just part of my job." His smile faded in favor of a glare. "If you can't see through that, you can't win this match."
''I see through a lot of things,'' Ash countered, brushing away a bang from his face. ''Extrasensory!''
A weak psychic beam stupefied Ariados away from the drained owl, sending it toppling off. Still laid, muffled by the poisonous threads, Noctowl writhe as the toxics resumed their assault.
''Air Slash, try your best!'' Ash pleaded.
There was no other way out than slicing the webs. The bird crooned, agreeing that his master had some sort of plan best for him. With wings on each side, the bird cried out for the winds to reveal the horrid side. Small compact orb, the size of a pebble was spawned inside the cocoon, blue waves emerging creating small cuts.
Koga's eyes bulged out. That escape would be the last thing they wanted!
''Ariados! More Toxic Thread!''
Spewing out a small gum, more silk was lashed out. Just before they could entrap Noctowl one again, the previous netting had been carved enough, for just the brute strength of the bird set him free. Chirping, Noctowl ascended the sky once again, but the chirp didn't stand for long, because the sight of Ariados just invited rage into room of emotions. The threads sprawled on the ground like noodles fallen from a bowl.
''Impossible! Not many could get out of my intricate technique like that!'' Koga gawked.
''Hey, didn't I tell you?'' Ash punched his open palm. ''I'm the legend!''
The concentrated orb now grown into a full sphere, split the breezes, before dropping upon Ariados, earning a painful screech as the insect tumbled over, falling upon its back, upside down. Scrapping its legs, it tried to rollover and straighten itself- only before that Ash saw his opportunity.
''Sky Attack!''
But, for Noctowl, there was no easy breeze. The flight down would be exhausting and it would likely collapse upon reaching the ground. Warbling, Noctowl charged to crash into his struggling opponent, enveloped in a destructive white aura. He drove straight into Ariados, beak straight would have broken a bone or two.
Poof…a small explosion occurred, and Noctowl soared to safety. Down below, Ariados wasn't in a thrilling state, scorched with bruises. At least, it was back on his legs, but it winced.
Olive green aura overtook the tarantula's form, healing some of the wounds in a pinch, while Noctowl suffered the effects of poison.
''That's Swarm…'' Ash recognized. ''Psych Up!''
''Use Sticky Web!'' Koga called, not holding himself a moment longer.
Angry, Ariados spewed out series of sticky gluttons that sprawled out as webs. The artist of woodland trees shot his ever strong lasting webs with precision, yet they missed to mark Noctowl by a huge margin, who used his hypnotics to study the stat change. It was then Ash realized, this was a new trap. The entire arena, from branches to ground was now lined up with silver-strewn webs. With the patient determination of the spider, something as intricate as a web can be fashioned again and again.
Noctowl fluttered around, hooting. Eyes began to scan all over the field. An entire cage of cobwebs was created. Set out as fisherman, Ariados began crawling upside down its own web, waiting for the prey.
''Ominous Wind!'' Ash grit. ''We gotta get those webs outta here!''
The Owl Pokemon whipped up another purple gust of wind, with much repulsive force. Much to Noctowl's dismay, the wind couldn't break any way forward, failing to penetrate the sticking of the stubborn web.
"You didn't think we'd let you break out so easily, did you?" Koga cracked a grin, once again clutching two fingers together. "Ariados has trained to make its webs sturdy as can be. Even the strongest of opponents will have a hard time getting out; after all, if our traps were easily deterred, I wouldn't be qualified to be called an Elite Four, would I?"
''Had me there…Noctowl,'' Ash grinned yet a stressed smirk. ''Air Slash full power but try it Unfezant's way!''
''…ooot''
Noctowl beat his wings furiously, contemplated the idea immediately. Winds began to span out under his wings, modified as blades. The whipping damage began to sabotage Ariados's net, as the latter quickly escaped, swinging to another branch with its web.
''Psychic!''
''What the- !''
Eerily lighting it eyes, ready for the final showdown, Ariados channeled its hidden psychic power.
''Oh man,'' Brock leaped up for his seat (partially) ''He kept it hidden for so long!''
Noctowl cried, attempting to get out of that rough, psychic tug. It's not much fun to be at the receiving end of it. Manipulated by the supernatural force, Noctowl was yanked hard against one of the webs. Finding himself enraptured in sticky gum again, the Owl shrieked, trying to separate himself, but he was stuck. This was too strong of a web!
''It's over!'' Koga declared.
''Damn it!'' Ash bit his teeth.
''And Ariados has got Noctowl where it wants him! This is not looking too pleasant folks!''
''Electroweb!'' Koga threw a hand out.
A crisping net of sizzling electricity coupled with the Sticky Web, only the one where Noctowl was trapped. Synchronized, shrill cries of pain were wrought from the flying type, making Ash's heart sink. In an explosion, the adhesiveness of the web wore off, allowing Noctowl to fall on the ground, unconscious by the time he slid to the ground. That was all it written for Noctowl in this match.
''Noctowl is no longer able to continue. Ariados wins!'' the referee blew a whistle.
''And it has come to a sizzling end for Noctowl! Toying around long enough, Koga has finally revealed his true colors!''
''Oh Ash…'' May's eyes were starting to well up. ''He was so confident. Poor Noctowl…''
''Don't get so rattled up Ash!'' Misty screamed out. ''Just focus on the battle!''
Brock afforded an assuring smile. ''Ash has it under control. Let's not get worked up shall we?''
''Who says I'm drifted in the first place,'' Ash pouted, a bit miffed with his friends sudden lack of belief. ''Return, Noctowl!''
He slightly gulped, reverse summoning the battered owl back to safety. ''You did really good Noctowl. You almost had them. Good job.''
Time ticked away, as Ash scanned the field. The entire field was thronged with sticky cobwebs, even the floor. Koga stood there staring at him, while Ariados brisked its feet. The official had one hand raised towards him, signaling he had to choose his next Pokemon and make it quick.
''I need to find a way around those webs. Luckily-'' Ash plucked out a new capsule, that shone bright under the sunlight. ''I brought him along.''
''This is it,'' Misty muttered. ''This is where he brings Gengar…''
''…zzzz….keep it down…the walls here have ears, you know…''
Unleashing the sphere into the fray, Ash barked. ''Muk, I choose you!''
The slimy, putrid-smelling sludge smeared himself on the ground. Reshaping himself, the amorphous poison type grumbled, slimy body shifting constantly, and zeroed in on Ariados. ''MUUUUUKKKKKKK!'' With a gravely cry of his name, it cast a predatory leer towards the spider.
Some of the groaned from the smell as Muk appeared, but Ash wasn't fazed the slightest by it.
''It's Muk!'' Misty beamed. ''Been so long!''
''Has he forgotten Ariados can use Psychic?!'' May gasped.
''And the round is off to a nauseating start! Let's hope this round isn't as lop-sided as the previous one!''
''So how do you want this match to go down, Ash? Will you at least try or throw in the towel?'' Koga taunted.
''Okay,'' Ash snickered. ''Here's a try out…Mud Bomb!''
''Quick hide behind the web!''
A contained orb of mud escaped Muk's wide opening flung at Ariados who crawled swiftly behind a web it was perched on. Soon enough, it proved sufficient to catch the incoming glob, stretching the quickly-strewn web to its limits. Patience proved to be a virtue, as the web finally worked its magic. The mud ball was launched back at Muk, much like a slingshot.
''Dodge it!''
Muk's shapeless body shifted, collapsing away from his own attack, as the thick muddy shard soared over him before he reformed back.
Koga visibly snorted, unimpressed. ''Swords Dance!''
Again summoning power from deep inside, Ariados bulked with ancillary power, additional to Swarm.
The ninja head didn't offer Ash the luxury of deciding a counter, immediately making a follow up on Ariados's boosted strength. ''Shadow Sneak!''
The poisonous bug slipped into obscurity, moving a shadow in its stead, creeping along the terrain towards the poison type.
''Shadow Punch!'' Ash threw a hand out.
Muk's slimy arm was pressed against a ground. A ghoulish hand erupted out, punching Ariados into the air. The bug screeched, landing hard against a cobweb.
''Oh how cool is that! Muk has arrived, restoring some order in this battle! Way to turn the table!''
''You got your tricks, I have mine…'' Ash smirked. '' "Now, Mud Bomb!"
The shrunken poison type belched out a mass of sludge, landing a direct hit on Ariados. The Long Leg Pokemon cried again, knocked off the net.
Ariados's pain brought a sick look of smugness to Ash's face. ''Shadow Punch!''
Muk extended an arm.
''Sucker Punch!''
Slinking across the floor shrouded in darkness, it delivered another sucker punch to the puzzled Muk.
''Body Slam!''
A large open palm pinned Ariados to the floor, regretting its ever decision of a close contact.
''Ariados, no, use Psychic to lift it up!'' Koga grimaced.
It concentrated, attempting to grab a hold of Muk…But, it was like grasping sand. Though it was obviously comfortable for the poison type, the only damage done was from the immediate pain of a poison type being attacked with psychic powers. Ariados could not grip on Muk; the purple, gloopy monster's mass slid through Ariados's Psychic grip.
Stiffening, its eyes lit up though trying its best, hovering Muk in the same light and shoving him off away at a good distance.
Oh…the relief of light weight. Suppression of body was the last thing any creature on this planet wanted.
Muk squirmed and shifted, moving so that he sat upright on the ground once again. Muk visibly heaved, having taken a lot of damage from Psychic.
''You pulled out a cunning one there,'' Koga heaved, mimicking his Pokemon. ''I am astounded by Muk's resilience. Not many Poison Types can withstand Ariados's Psychic that way. You are obviously raising it well.''
Taking pride, being praised by the Poison Type Master himself, Ash was satisfied. But emotions would have to wait, for one didn't know if flattery could also be Koga's dirty trick. With a battle at hand, Ash fired back.
''Yeah, that Psychic seems to have caused us a lot of pain…so here's some,'' Ash punched upwards. ''Pain Split!''
Muk exhaled. Soon projecting a silver beam, that seemingly sucked any sort of light out of the air around it. Raining down upon Ariados, it scanned its form, assaulting the spider with terrible unprecedented pain.
''Dos!'' the arachnid cried, legs hadn't even buckled properly yet.
''Pain Split?'' May blinked. ''What an odd move?''
''Handy in situations like these. It's a mysterious shockwave that shares the user pain with the target, but also divides their combined energy.''
''Gunk Shot!''
Muk opened its ugly mouth and unleashed a barrage of huge grimy bullets, striking Ariados multiple times. Irritated, the bug shoveled the residues of sludge from its body with its legs, revolted by the grime's stench.
Koga grit his teeth. ''Electroweb!''
The arachnid, immediately recovering from brief exhaustion, whipped up another speedy net of electricity, stunning the Sludge Pokemon, earning a loud slow drone of pain.
''Mud Bomb!''
Splitting some mud all over his own body, a thick layer of melted mud forged itself against the thick net of electricity, and Muk slowly crept himself out underneath.
''Shadow Sneak! End this!''
Summoning another spell of ghostly power, Ariados travelled through the medium of shadows thanks to the Sunlight, jabbing another hook into Muk's center, with explosive force. Muk tensed, eyes shut, taking the sneaked jab without so much of a grimace.
Koga's eyes twitched in disbelief.
''Body Slam!''
Muk raced forward, sliding along its own path of sludge and closing in on fatigued Ariados.
''Ariados, shoot multiple Sticky Webs! Do not cease! No Mercy!'' the elite chided.
One thick blanket of stream of silk caged Muk, second and third, then a fourth pinned and restricted his movements, and they kept on coming. Restrained, Muk gurgled, using his stenches to escape.
''Leech Life!''
''Okay here it comes…'' May rushed, hands folded in some sort of pray.
Ariados crept closer, sharp fangs stropping against one another. Did the opposing Pokemon even have any blood to drain, or just foul repulsive sludge. It had to find out!
''Minimize!'' Ash pumped a closed fist.
Purple ooze leaked out of the openings of the silky web, much to the spider's horror. Using his cellular molecular structure, Muk shrunk himself into a small puddle, jabbing out of the silk tomb. Once out, small droplets began to merge into a larger shape, reforming the size of what Muk was before. A shadow dwarfed the bug type, flashing a toothless grin.
Ash flashed a smirk, focusing on Muk. ''Body Slam!''
Punishing power built up in Muk's new body, crashed into the insect, bringing it plummeting to the ground with all of his weight.
''…!'' Koga gawked, awe betraying him. ''Use Leech Life!''
''And bite what? Muk is a formless creature..no muscle, ninja!''
Inside Muk's sludge, Ariados suffocated and struggled with all power, yet the lack of oxygen was overbearing. Pressed hard against the ground, Muk strained himself and spilled more, smothering the insect.
Soon the struggling stopped, and the Sludge Pokemon scooped atop off the spider. Lying flat on the floor, legs spread wide and eyes spiraled, was one fainted Ariados.
''Ariados is unable to continue…Muk Wins!''
''And Muk has displayed clear payback after relentlessly pounding on a tired Ariados, no matter how repulsive it may be! If there's a Lunch Break don't bother to bring me any food, guys! I may never eat again!''
''He did it!'' May joshfully clasped her hands, squealing excitedly.
"Ash and Muk handled that excellently," Brock said, clapping with much more reserve. ''That was quite intense.''
''You know,'' Misty blinked. ''I have noticed a lot of improvement in his battle techniques. Back in the old day, he would make the best strategies out of an offense, but here, with years of training, he's taught his Pokemon a lot of moves that would save butt in the last minute.''
''I see it too,'' May stopped her frolick, ''It wasn't the same as before. He's gotten more calm in situations like these…''
Brock agreed, "That kind of composure will take him a long way."
''Pika pi..''
''Fate has a funny way of settling scores, ain't it ?'' Ash taunted, as the opposition retrieved Ariados safely inside its Pokeball.
Koga smirked. By now his tough façade was worn out. Holding a Pokeball between two main fingers, he raised his arm. His smirk smug and widened on his visage.
'' "Not half bad, I guess…" he conceded, finally getting rid of the negativity in his expression. ''But I guess simple tricks won't work against you. My techniques will need a tune in notch!''
"I could say the same to you…" Ash fired back, brushing his thumb past his nose and smirking. ''So what, you wanna go B rank on this one?''
Flicking his wrist, not able to comprehend what his adversary just said, Koga threw his Pokeball into the fray. ''Venomoth, I summon you!''
''moth…'' the bug type vocalized upon appearance, buzzing happily as it was freed from its Pokeball, welcoming the relief of afternoon air. The body of this moth was relatively stout and torpedo-shaped.
''Is this the same Venomoth as before?''
''Indeed,'' Koga nodded. ''The very one you battled!''
Ash grinned at this knowledge that Koga's Venomoth would be more of a challenge than to his daughter's, relishing the sensation of an uphill battle in the hand.
With a grin, he called his next move. ''Muk , let's give them!''
Part One of Koga chapter is done with. We now proceed to Part Two. Which I am gonna upload it on the same day, so that we can Close the Koga Chapter once and for all. If within three months time I complete Sinnoh saga and other three months for Kalos, use rest three for Unova I think we'll have ourselves for the Galar World Championships. So sadly yes, I am dropping Alola. But hold on! That doesn't mean I wouldn't wish to write it. Just not for this story. I came up with a plan.
Being pragmatic as I am, I was racking my brains for something after 'Back in Action' and here are some ideas that popped in my head.
One, A Kanto Journey for the next generation, with Ash and May's kids in a futuristic time.
Two, since I am dropping Unova, I'll start penning down a new story completely unrelated to this one, with Ash and May as teen companions, after Sinnoh.
Three, Ash and Serena, in Alola. As I was planning one AmourShipping fic as well.
So that would cover it all I guess.
Q&A
What is the maximum limit of moves each Pokemon are using in Elite Four battles, as noticed the four move limit is up? –Ten moves maximum. Not all of them. Somewhere the range of six-ten.
Anyway, (please press Next)
