And welcome back! So a month has gone by, heh? Time just keep flying and every day we realized, okay- this day was a waste, XD
Something I'd like to address about one of Misty's dialogue in the previous chapter, that she wanted to buy Ash shoes for Christmas, and I am sure many of you were intrigued. According to the timeline, Ash's Elite Four Challenge began right a week after Thanksgiving, two more weeks passed by, so we are one week and couple of days away from Christmas in my story. Funny thing is I'll write that after Ash battles the Fourth Elite Four member, and in real world, Valentine's Day would have been passed.
But I am planning a one shot for that too, and I hope I can really keep my promise this year!
Anyway, I present you the third installment of Bruno, and I hope you are eager to see some of Ash's best in action! I know the action has been building, and you know what it means when I said he'll battle the Fourth Elite Four member! Come on, we all know how this ends.
So without further ado, onwards to Chapter 61!
''Decidueye, Defog!''
''Desai!'' it cooed, flapping his wings with intensity. Strong gusts mercilessly moved the floating rocks, bursting them into shards and rubbles. Ruffled and furious from the winds pushing his slender legs backwards, Hitmonlee pulled up, giving himself a reprieve.
Nasty winds continued to rustle the field below.
''A best bet hatches down coz Decidueye is bringing a change in the weather!''
''Defog?'' May tapped her chin.
''…zzz…Defog is a non-damage dealing flying type move that clears away all the defensive maneuvers and terrains activated on target's side of the field! It also makes the target exposed to attacks!''
''Perfect choice to counter Stealth Rock!'' Brock beamed.
''Mime, Mr. Mime!''
''Hitmonlee, Foresight!''
Eyes glinting dark, a red beam scanned the whole field. Decidueye had lost immunity against fighting type and normal type moves. Ash winced, as Bruno had seen right through his strategy.
''Hitmonlee, use Mega Kick!''
Hitmonlee stirred and squatted, right foot lighting up with energy. Powerful legs no less than a spring, launched Hitmonlee into the air, pulling an acrobatic somersault on its way down at Decidueye.
''Counter that with Leaf Blade!''
"Kooorai!" Decidueye hooted out fiercely. His wings shot out, the tips of them grabbing hold of shining green blades of energy. In seconds, he had reappeared right at their opponent and was slashing forward with his blades in a cross fashion that blocked Hitmonlee's kick, making him lose his momentum in the airborne stunt, as he dropped on the floor.
Hitmonlee recoiled from the sharp blades, and righted himself.
''Now Psycho Cut!''
Decidueye rotated his neck weakly, whipping the air with his wings to launch a couple of magenta gash at Hitmonlee.
''Wide Guard!'' Bruno roared, shifting his foot slightly. It was like he was conceding slight ground. A multicolored barrier circled around the Kicking Pokemon, shielding him from the wrath of the psychic enhanced blades.
''Leaf Blade once again!'' Ash grabbed the railings of the trainer box. Decidueye rushed forward with bewildering speed, the two extremities taking on a green shine.
''Fight it with Blaze Kick!''
Hitmonlee launched forward to meet Decidueye, both feet searing in flames. With a roundhouse, the Kicking expert stabbed his foot out in front, tearing clean through Decidueye's attack and striking home, the second Blaze Kick didn't take any more than tenth of a second to push Decidueye's cloak back.
"Lee! Hit-mon-lee!" the Kicking Pokémon jeered, as Decidueye flailed to extinguish the flames caught on his cloak. Hitmonlee stood in a battle stance, jerking its skinny arms up and using its clawed fingers to provoke the fully grown grass starter.
''Phantom Force!''
Decidueye sunk into a ghostly, ephemeral portal that led him somewhere into the Outworld. The wormhole closed behind the Arrow Quill Pokemon, not before the grass type leered at the kicking punt.
Bruno wasn't fazed in the least, "Hitmonlee, stay alert!''
Hitmonlee squinted and scanned its surroundings, watching carefully for any sign of the owl's approach. Foresight was still active, and he was sensing a ghoulish presence nearing towards him. An opening of the small wormhole just below Hitmonlee, bridged Decidueye's path into this realm, as his beak poked up from the wormhole, as he sped forward, sending an uppercut as Hitmonlee tripped on the ground.
''Hey that's our wheelhouse,'' Ash identified, repeating his command. ''Phantom Force!''
In the two turn attack, Decidueye struck from above this time, putting his abilities as a phantom to best use. Phantom Force was enforced again as Decidueye took a ranicheck from everyone's sight. Seconds ticked by, and Bruno's eyes darted left to right, to spot the opening of the portal.
"Hitmonlee, behind you! Use Mega Kick!"
Hitmonlee whirled around, spotting the cream colored feathers approaching and instantly charging up a Mega Kick. Decidueye picked up the pace, but Hitmonlee was faster and crashed its foot into the wormhole, straight into owl's face. The kick shattered the mistake of Decidueye emerging early, rocked by the unexpected counterattack.
"Great job, Hitmonlee! Now, use Close Combat!"
Hitmonlee dragged the ghost type out of the portal and slammed him on the floor below, with bounding into the air, clearing the distance between it and Decidueye quickly and lashing out with a series of punches and kicks. Decidueye staggered back after each hit, bringing up its leafy appendages in a futile attempt to protect itself, since Hitmonlee simply aimed for more vulnerable spots in response.
''Does Hitmonlee plan to put Decidueye out of the match or out of commission?!"
Decidueye hit the dirt with a thud, breathing hard. A stinging pain lingered on its body and Decidueye feebly scrabbled away with one of his legs.
''Decidueye, return!'' Ash grimaced, and plucked out Decidueye's Pokeball returning him in an instant. ''Take some rest pal, I'll need you sooner or later.''
Decidueye's portrait was drained of color.
''And the first switch of this match! While Decidueye was a perfect choice up, Ash's strategy was painfully obvious! What plans does he have for Hitmonlee now? Keep your eyes glued the TV folks!''
''Good call,'' Misty mumbled. ''I would say Bruno had Ash all figured out.''
''Or perhaps, Ash just wanted to get rid of Stealth Rock and tire out Hitmonlee a bit,'' May tried to encourage. ''Isn't that what he always does?''
''..zzz…Whatever he tries, will be bounced back …zzzz…in his face. And then Bruno will try to finish him with one attack!''
''Rotom is right,'' Brock sighed. ''Every Elite Four member has the same tactic, same dicker. This battle is nothing new to Bruno. And he's obviously planning something.''
"I'm afraid that's what happens when there's a large difference in experience," Misty accounted.
''Well said…Kiawe!''
''Uh…It's Brock actually…''
Staring down at the replacement capsule, Ash pressed it against his forehead. ''This is your chance to shine. I know you have gotten strong from all that trainings we had together.'' He whispered softly.
He tossed the Pokeball in the air, sending out his fourth choice. The capsule reached its zenith in the air, and split open at the hinge, releasing a flash of white-blue energy that materialized the form of a bipedal mantis. It had a broad, split leaf around its large, round head and it has long antennae that end in semicircles. Its eyes were red with no apparent sclerae. Its tiny thorax is dark green, and its long abdomen is yellow and covered in a green leaf. Its hands are long and leaf-like with a "bite" taken out of each. Its upper arms were also leaf-like, but with a vein of yellow at the top. Its thin legs were yellow with dark green, thick segments around its upper legs, making them appear armored.
''Leavaaaa!'' chimed the Nurturing Pokemon in a singsong voice.
''A Leavanny, a grass part bug type,'' Brock studied the Pokemon's features. ''That could turn things around.''
Leavanny held up his hands above his antennae, conjuring a condensed pulsing energy, launching it at Hitmonlee.
''Blaze Kick!''
Hitmonlee readied his dominant foot, silently igniting it into flames, and burst the nature's orb with a thrust kick.
''Energy Ball, back to back!''
The Kicking Pokémon returned to the ground after his first jump and ran immediately to evade more Energy Balls thrown his way. With an unblinking and unnerving look, Leavanny's eyes followed Hitmonlee's direction and continued his assault of the withdrn nature power. Years of combat training proved fruitful, as Hitmonlee swayed past each nature ball.
The missed spheres, however, proved their power in making minor altercations upon the rock battlefield by leaving noticeable gashes on the ground and scattered rock peaks. Hitmonlee was internally thankful that he did not receive a hit yet from an attack as strong as this Pokémon's Energy Ball.
Somehow, Leavanny managed to puppet Hitmonlee's movements making him lure against the large, wide pit Onix had left on the rock battlefield. This was oblivious to the Pokemon engrossed in evading the pulsing orbs, but not the master behind him.
''Rolling Kick!''
Regardless if he knew if his opponent was setting a trap or not, Hitmonlee was prepared to face it head on and overpower it with his own strength. Coiling his segmented spring legs, Hitmonlee leapt up and swung a leg to actually knock the attack away effortlessly. He then swung his other leg and extended it far enough that would sweep Leavanny out of the park.
''Dodge!''
''Leava!'' Leavanny gracefully veered out of the extended foot's influence. Swiping nothing but air, Hitmonlee retracted his legs, composedly.
''Hey Leavanny!'' Ash requested his Pokemon's attention.
''You remember all those training exercises we did together, and developed our own battling style?''
''Leava!'' The bug type bobbed his head.
''Well, let's flaunt some of that! Get in your praying mantis mode!''
''Praying Mantis? He's planning to go ancient kung fu on me?'' Bruno cocked a brow.
''Leaav!'' Sharpening his appendages, Leavanny got into the posture. Legs bent and crossed sideways, leaves on the wrists ready to strike. Of course, dealing with a Pokémon of an Elite Four member, Ash could not let any attacks get Leavanny for even a second lest he gave them more opportunities to counterattack.
''Another creative battling style?'' May hummed. ''It seems he's involved Leavanny into martial arts as well.''
''…zzz…Leavanny is the one of the Pokemon in Ash's arsenal that has the best scores in dodging. Ash has made his Leavany undergo some intense special training, and together they developed a new fighting style.''
''Praying Mantis?'' Brock crossed his chin. ''Mantis Kungfu focuses on circular block and strike to the opponent's weak point. But if Ash knows such techniques, it is certain, Bruno does too.''
''Just don't lose your concentration, Leavanny,'' Ash encouraged. ''That is not one easy Pokemon to beat.''
''Leav!'' the insectoid narrowed his eyes.
"Hitmonlee, use Mega Kick." Bruno ordered. Hitmonlee launched into the air, one large foot outstretched and stirring with power.
''Swords Dance to dodge!''
Leavanny altered his stance, and spun, summoning a yellow aura around his body. He leaped over a sweep from below, upper arms were elongated due to sudden boost. Hitmonlee realized that it would miss and dropped his attack to land expertly on the ground before leaping to strike again.
''String Shot!''
Parting his hands to reveal his face, small mouth spat out a silky string. The yarn wrapped around Hitmonlee's approaching foot, absorbing the Kicking Pokémon's force.
''Now slam him!''
''Leavaa!''
Springing into the air, Leavanny lifted Hitmonlee's weight by the strong sturdy string, quickly circling him into a wing before dropping him with a brutal heavy slam.
''Would you look at that!? Leavanny is dominating! Hitmonlee's pride must be so hurt right after that back!''
The Kicking Pokemon winced, reeling to stand after the death body drop.
''X-Scissor!''
Spreading the hands, Leavanny immediately crossed them after, green energy pulsing into his blades. He rushed forward, a green, gleaming cross heading his assault.
''Meditate!''
An acute twinkle sparkled from the corner of Hitmonlee's right eye. He closed them, mind self-absorbed for a moment. Chanting something, Hitmonlee opened the gates of a hidden power deep within, and a crimson aura outlined him. He shot open his eyes, flickering with cognition.
''Hi Jump Kick!''
Hitmonlee rocketed into the air, summoning the power of gravity to bring himself down. Knee lit up red, and a blitzed aura outshone Hitmonlee. Powered up from all the meditation, the kick overpowered Leavanny's slender cross.
The contact, as a result, caused a jarring explosion in the air. Hitmonlee managed to land back on his feet with minimal scars and smoke carried on from the aftermath. Leavanny staggered out of the haze, seemingly immobile and wracked in pain.
May observed Ash's pained expression as Leavanny stumbled for is balance. She knew that the Nurturing Pokémon still had plenty of endurance left to go against Hitmonlee, but Ash was playing it safe.
But still…
Even with a few successful hits with super effective attacks, Hitmonlee was still raring to go. The coordinator was more than impressed by the amount of power and stamina the Kicking Pokémon had since the start of the match.
"He'll pull through like always," she muttered to herself. "He and his Pokémon believe in each other on levels beyond what I can see."
And true to her word, Leavanny frowned, once again curving into the defensive position of a mantis.
''So should I wait until you get comfortable or shall I take you out real quick?'' Bruno mocked.
''...'' Ash tensed.
''I can feel there's no love lost on the battlefield! Pressure and game full of intensity, just the way we love it!''
''Leavanny, get ready!'''
''Leav!''
''So Option 2,'' Bruno smirked. ''Close Combat!''
Hitmonlee zipped forward, reaching Leavanny almost instantly and delivering a few swift punches and kicks. Leavanny snarled as he fell victim to the rapid attacks, and a well-placed kick to the stomach knocked the Nurturing Pokémon two steps back. The bug-grass hybrid growled irritably, but proud that he had endured a lot more than Hitmonlee could offer.
''Leava!''
''Swords Dance!''
Hitmonlee, even though his vitality taking a deep dive, continued his pummeling of fierce blows one after the other. Growling Leavanny spun enthusiastically, the rapid green acceleration shielding Leavanny from the hits Hitmonlee was unloading.
''Wow! Would you look at that! Hitmonlee's Close Combat isn't able to stop Leavanny from using Swords Dance! Furthermore, it looks like Swords Dance is not only raising up Leavanny's attack but also protecting it!''
''Now Poison Jab!''
Bubbling with power enough to dispel Hitmonlee's kick, and with best footwork to test, Leavanny deflect the fighting type's foot, spun him around and swiped a hand, swarmed with toxic violet hue on Hitmonlee's back. The Kick Pokemon complained as his back was pounded once again, a flood of poison seeping into his skin.
''And Ash's crafty thinking has left Hitmonlee poisoned!''
''I thought why should we waste our energy too if you already are,'' Ash smirked. ''don't get us wrong. I just exploited that small link where Hitmonlee has his defenses lowered after Close Combat!''
''Oh, now you think you have me figured out?'' Bruno cocked a brow. ''Rolling Kick!''
''Show 'em your dodging, buddy!" Ash egged on the bug-type, and Leavanny was in no mood to refuse.
The extended foot came swinging in no time. However, dodge was a dodge. Dipping, ducking, leaping Leavanny enjoyed his movements in motion, as he swayed side to side. Every strike was easily avoided elegantly.
''Mega Kick!''
Hitmonlee threw his foot first, missiling down to crash Leavanny head-on!
''Now to break that lame offensive line of yours! Steel Wing!''
The command left everyone intrigued, as even the basic eligibility to use Steel Wing required a wing! Their questions were answered when Leavanny raised his hands, pouring shimmering energy inside them.
''Leava!'' the Nurturing Pokemon squealed, as he smacked the hardened extremity against Hitmonlee's leg, like deadly blades, striking Hitmonlee's leg repeatedly like a drummer would hammer the drums.
Hitmonlee wailed out in pain, his leg had gone sore and reddening was visible. On top of that, the overwhelming poisonous effects slowing him down.
''Energy Ball!''
"Hitmonlee, you've gotta get up! I know you can do it!" Bruno urged. Hitmonlee blinked and forced itself to its feet, though it couldn't conceal the weakness in its step. Grinning, the master dished out a command, "Okay, use Blaze Kick!"
The words acted like catalyst and Hitmonlee wrenched himself back to his feet, sol alive, fatigue forgotten. With the other foot that wasn't any less dominating, Hitmonlee jumped into the air, twisted his lithe form, slamming his burning foot straight into Leavanny.
The bug Pokemon cried out, premature energy ball changing direction and ripping a crater in the field instead.
''Energy Ball was totally boned out! And looks at the sears in Leavanny's face from that super effective Blaze Kick!''
''Close Combat!''
Hitmonlee unleashed the counterattack, catching Leavanny before the grass-type could bite down on its body. The Kicking Pokémon dealt a few swift punches before kicking Leavanny straight up and performing an expert roundhouse kick to send Leavanny flailing away.
''Damn it!'' Misty whimpered. ''Ash's strategies aren't working at all! Hitmonlee is too fast and too powerful!''
''Oh man, I getting stumped here!'' Ash grit. ''Everytime I strike, he blows back out! At this rate, Leavanny – huh?''
Ash's brows shot up. Leavanny was being outlined in a forest green aura. Hitmonlee hacked as well, exhausted by the feat of the strength. Another assault by the burning sensation of toxins and the fighting type winced. Leavanny produced a weak grin at his opponent, tired from the struggle with Hitmonlee. He felt a sudden rise in power, but energy bar was lowering.
''That's Swarm!'' Ash identified.
''Leavanny's Special Ability has woken!'' Brock grinned.
''Being a victim to Hitmonlee's kicks, Leavanny has activated his last resort! Will this be enough to stop Hitmonlee in its tracks!''
''You raring to go?'' Ash blinked. ''Even after a hit like that?''
''Leava!'' he nodded, determined to finish this.
''You hear that, Master Bruno?'' Ash jabbed. ''If attacking straight is your only power, then look out! Because I am not done yet! Not by a long shot!''
''Oh I am not worried sonny! It's gotta beat, but can you dance to it?'' Bruno retaliated
''Of course, here's the lead!'' Ash punched the air. ''String Shot!''
Heaving for breath, Leavanny tossed his head backwards, and spewed a woven string of silk, entangling Hitmonlee into a cocoon. More and more sticky string began twining around Hitmonlee, wrapping up his limbs altogether.
''Break it!'' Bruno roared.
Hitmonlee struggled, powerful flexing muscles struggling to break the wrapped thick fibers around his body, but no avail! It was astounding to find a Elite's Pokemon struggling against the basic moves of a bug type!
''Hey, I know that strategy!'' Misty was reminded. ''He used the same strategy against Starmie!''
''Leavanny is unstoppable! It has Hitmonlee all tied up! I can't wait to see how this one ends?''
''Umm..'' Ash pretended sympathy. ''Did we go overboard there? Tell you what, let's free them!''
''Free them?'' May sighed, hanging her head, Pikachu mimicking her too.
''Air Slash!'' Ash insisted.
''Air Slash?'' Misty hummed.
''Must be his counter attack against bug types and fighting types.'' Brock grinned. ''So that's what he was going for!''
Leavanny gracefully spun like a top, firing the compressed air blades that hurdled for the blind Hitmonlee. With no sense of direction as the stripes of silk had blinded him completely and made his body immobile, the saw disks of slicing air barraged into Hitmonlee, cutting the streaks of the silk.
The slicing currents pounded the fighting type relentlessly. His knee couldn't bear the pain, and Hitmonlee kneeled. Purple bubbles stung the fighting type once more. Regardless of their injuries, both Pokemon glared at one another, not with contempt but with respect. Hitmonlee if had a face would have chuckled, at the fact that he had lost to a far younger opponent.
Nodding one last time, Hitmonlee's front slumped on the ground. His eyes promptly slipped out of consciousness, going still and leaving no doubt of its status.
''Hitmonlee is unable to battle! Leavanny wins!''
''Leavaaa!''
''And that bleeped through outta there like a bullet! Hitmonlee is out for the day! This has made Ash one step closer to winning the match and he's in the lead! I am psyched to see how Master Bruno retaliates!''
Bruno sighed, withdrawing Hitmonlee from the field and tucking the capsule away. ''That was a fantastic battle, Hitmonlee. You can't blame yourself if your opponent is stronger.''
Seeing Ash shower admiration for his Leavanny like that, the giant man managed a small reminiscing smirk. ''I knew you could pull that one little dude!'' Bruno praised, gaining Ash's attention. ''That was one sweet wave! But need I remind you, battle isn't over yet!''
Bruno stripped a Poké Ball from his pants and enlarged it, slinging it out onto the field with a swift snap of his arm.
''Poliwrath!'' The water/ fighting hybrid chanted its name in a bellowing cry, flexing both arms, fists raised over its head.
''And Bruno has decided to do his talking with his killer Poliwrath, who is known for its temper. Poliwrath uses the element of surprise and plays with you like a Popplio plays with a Beach Ball! And the round begins with these two sizing each other up…''
''What' the scoop here, Rotom?'' Misty requested. ''Does Leavanny as a chance against Poliwrath?''
''And you call yourself a water type expert?''
''Sometimes I wonder where could have Tracey hidden my mallet…'' the gym leader exasperated.
As customary for the League Battle, it was Ash who was supposed to make the first move. Thinking is choices, he selected one. ''Swords Dance!''
''He's powering up again?'' Misty wondered aloud, quirking a brow.
Brock crossed his legs. ''Ash probably realizes Leavanny will be out of energy soon, since it has activated Swarm. But only the power of Leavanny's Bug type attacks have been boosted, and Ash is filling the gap for the grass type moves as well. That could be the only rational explanation.''
''Even or so, it's probably debuffing Bruno,'' May explained. ''Aiming at Poliwrath's sloppy vulnerabilities against Energy Ball and Air Slash is the only way. And in high stakes battles like these, those differences add up.''
Leavanny spun in a second again, the yellow aura shone the Nurturing Pokemon brightly. It was guaranteed that if Leavanny would make a strike, it would be enough to leave an impact.
''Mind Reader!''
Poliwrath's eyes fixated on Leavanny, each emitting an eerie purple glow. Ash grit his teeth, brows furrowing at the situation he was in.
'Great! Now they're gonna have an easier time landing hits! So basically, Leavanny's dodging skills aren't gonna save us here. Good choice, Master Bruno!'' He pointed a finger forward, shouting his next command. ''Air Slash, keep going!''
Leavanny let out a loud melodious cry in response, unleashing the constant blades at Poliwrath.
But Bruno's smirk told everyone, he was ready. ''Hypnosis!''
Poliwrath's eyes gleamed sinisterly and through the black irises, he shot multiple pink rings that preyed upon the bug's consciousness. Leavanny's eyes drooped, and he dropped his guard.
''Leavanny!''
''Dynamic Punch!'' A throaty yell from the hulk caught Ash's attention, but by the time he could make a counter attack, Poliwrath had already lunged towards Leavanny, clobbering the bug-grass type with a powerful haymaker on the head. The punch connected, sending the bug type reeling from impact.
When the curtain of dust fell, Poliwrath stood triumphant while Leavanny lay motionless on the floor, its only signs of life was shallow breathing.
The referee shivered from the chilly air before announcing his verdict. ''Leavanny is unable to battle! Poliwrath wins!''
''And Poliwrath, as expected makes quick work of Leavanny! The score is now tied with Ash and Bruno losing three Pokemon each!''
The jumbotron updated with results and Leavanny's face darkened.
''Kinda brute force if you ask me,'' Misty noted.
''That was simply Bruno giving Ash a taste of his own medicine. Mind Reader to land a critical hit, Leavanny going to sleep and chance with Dynamic Punch, even if Leavanny survived that, the battle would be over in a click.'' Brock sighed. ''These Elite battles really throw mercy out of the window, don't they?''
A low growl left the Pallet's proud trainer. 'I could have used Leavanny to weaken Poliwrath, but I screwed up.'' Lighting up Leavanny's form with the red beam of a Pokeball, Ash returned him with a proud smile on his face. ''That was really something Leavanny. I promise you, next time, there won't be any need for Swarm.''
His hands shook as the clipped back Leavanny's Pokeball, and reached out for Decidueye's. Confidence was slipping away, but he had to retain it. All he had to do was rack his brains, just has harder, and just as faster.
The stalwart toad stood on the ground, white gloves tightly clenched. Ash inhaled, tossing his Pokeball. ''Decidueye, you're back in!''
He was answered with a shrill hoot as Decidueye spread his wings wide, soaring over the battlefield, maintaining steady flight over.
''Hey, with Decidueye on the field, fighting type moves will have no effect!'' Misty realized.
''I am sure Bruno knows that, and plans something,'' Brock advised.
'Decidueye is the best shot I got! No more goofin' around!' Pitch black brows furrowed, Ash's expression hardening with determination. He cracked his knuckles. The older man raised a brow at the gesture, but anyone who knew Ash would know that this could only mean one thing - Ash meant business.
Unlike Leavanny, the owl took no time at all, his body surrounding in green streaks of light before crashing straight into the water type's stomach, with a extension of a green wing.
''ci!'' the bird cawed.
''Mind Reader!'' It would be much to Bruno's surprise, though, that Ash was one step ahead of him.
''Rapid fire! Spirit Shackle!''
To everyone's amazement, Decidueye nocked multiple quills he plucked on his bowstring, pulling tight at the drawstring of his ghostly bow, aiming with utmost precision. In most crucial moment of Poliwrath, the ghostly arrows, tinted with evil power, bombed upon Poliwrath, having lost concentration needed for the attempted move.
''Deci~'' the Owl cooed, lowering his wing. Every target struck brought him an odd sense of happiness.
''Brave Bird!''
''Mind Reader!''
Decidueye's bright yellow blaze erupted from his figure, as he soared around. Twice as battered as before, Poliwrath stood to his ground, eyes aided by premonition trained onto Decidueye's wing flap as he dropped down towards the fighting amphibian. His muscles ached from the tension of waiting for Bruno to give the other.
Bruno only waited for the glorious opportunity as the grass type neared. ''Throat Chop!''
Just as the beak was about to pummel Poliwrath, the water type landed a brutal karate chop right under Decidueye's face, eliciting a suffocating cough from the fully grown Alolan starter.
''Man, that's a Super effective hit,'' Ash growled. ''It's gonna be a problem!''
''Now, Throat Chop again!''
Poliwrath tensed, fist shaped into a chop that summoned another spell of the dark energy. He leaped to soar forward, only to be pulled by a baffling, unknown energy. Arcane to the people of Kanto, Bruno spotted Poliwrath's feet locked in place with snaking, shadowy tendrils.
''What the-!''
''Oh yeah,'' Ash scratched his cheek, trying to be as condescending as he could. ''That's a secondary effect of Spirit Shackle. It pins the target's shadow for a turn.''
Directing his gaze to his owl who still reeled from the neck pain, he commanded. ''Psycho Cut!''
Decidueye reared up on his footings, dispatching sharp fuchsia arches. Poliwrath crumpled down on the grown, buffeted by the slashes. The Arrow Quill jeered gleefully as he spread out a few feet away from the winded Poliwrath, and neither Bruno nor his water-type Pokémon were pleased.
"Use Rock Slide!" Bruno made an order that made Ash's heart race, and his orders were followed. A number of boulders appeared once more, heading straight for the grass type that was already close by. Ash, though, wasn't going to take that sitting down.
''Watch out, Phantom Force!''
Once again, Decidueye disappeared in an almost untraceable speed, vitalizing his body feathers as empty air. Before Bruno could think to respond, Poliwrath was struck in the stomach once more by a smoothly executed attack from Decidueye. He quickly pulled back into the air above, gaining distance from the formidable water type.
The martial artist gritted his teeth, "Poliwrath, use Water Pulse!"
Poliwrath, apparently recovered from its brief exhaustion, whipped off a speedy compact ball in front of his swirl, firing off the pressurized sphere of water at Decidueye's fleeing form, forcing the bird to slow his ascent from the sudden water weight.
''Mind Reader!''
Poliwrath furrowed once more, sizing up the drenched big owl.
''Decidueye! Leaf Blade!''
Decidueye glided back at Poliwrath once again, building up speed for a vicious slash.
''Psychic!''
Poliwrath heard the command and stiffened, its eyes glowing blue.
"…Uh oh." Ash said, gulping.
However, Decidueye's body couldn't feel any submission to the Tadpole Pokemon's will. A small tremble from the rocks behind made Ash gasp.
''Decidueye! Watch out!''
Controlled by the telekinesis, the rocks were lifted as reinforcement, lining up by the size.
''Man, I totally forgot about Rock Slide!'' Ash muttered, briefly pausing on that thought before recalling the urgency of the moment. 'Brave Bird!''
He'd nearly been too late, watching on as Decidueye just barely ducked under an incoming rock. He shot forward, ablaze with the same brilliant light. He ducked and barreled past multiple stones, coming closer and closer to homing in on the opponent. Eyes comparable to those of a hawk centered in on the Tadpole pokemon, intent on pursuing it with laser-like focus.
This would be his downfall, as a psychic enhanced boulder came flying seemingly out of nowhere, crashing directly into Decidueye just under his back. Ash could only watch in horror as his Pokemon had its focus knocked right out of him, finally being pummeled by several more boulders.
''Oh no!'' Misty gasped, cupping her hands.
''…ci….'' The bird winced, squirming to get out of the pile of rocks. Bruised had scathed hid body, and he had visibly taken a lot of damage from the rocks.
''Body Slam!''
Ash while still grimacing, blinked. ''Body Slam? What good is Body Slam gonna do against a ghost type?(GASP) Wait! He isn't planning on- !''
Soon gravity was doing its job, and Poliwrath's chubby body was falling on the pile of rocks that had constrained Decidueye. Ash and friends were equally stunned. Decidueye let out a pained grunt, continuing his pained struggle but his feet were stuck under a huge boulder.
''Decidueye!'' Ash brushed some of his bangs aside. ''Featherdance!''
''kroo…'' Decidueye hooted in bewilderment. Oh yeah, why didn't he think of that? The large owl tensed, feathers bristling that even quaked the rocks above him. Poliwrath crashed on the stock of rocks, but the heavyweight added crushing power to nothing but only a husk of feathers joined together to represent a clone of Decidueye.
''What!'' Bruno gawked.
The owl was soaring freely above, dusting off his wings. Poliwrath frowned at the silly bird above, himself enveloped in a blue glow, from all the feathers reducing his stamina, making him feel weak and tired.
''Water Pulse!''
''Phantom Force to dodge it!''
Poliwrath shot another glowing sphere of water, flying through thin air, only for to keep soaring above, whereas Decidueye disappeared once again.
"Now, use Seed Bomb." Ash ordered. With no use of an Everstone to execute the move anymore, Decidueye unleashed a barrage of bullets, striking Poliwrath multiple times, detonating upon contact. Irritated, Poliwrath shoveled the seed shells from his body with his fingers, revolted by the explosives.
''Mind Reader!''
Poliwrath targeted Decidueye again. The constant disappearing was precisely a reason fighting types hated ghost types next to psychic types.
''Hypnosis!''
The Tadpole cackled, sending several hypnotic rings towards the Arrow Quill, whose fate was sealed to sleep. They enveloped the grass type, making his lids heavy. It yawned, a snort bubble appearing from his nose, and he instinctively slumped on the ground, peacefully asleep too much to care about a battle taking place.
Ash groaned, reflecting on the experiences with the Pokemon.
''Guess you won't be playing any encores for a while,'' Bruno boasted, triumphant.
''…zzz….Any of you got a white flag..zzz…?''
''Using Mind Reader before Hypnosis is a guaranteed hit.'' Brock sighed. ''He roped Ash in his strategy.''
''And that gets a little less difficult to do every day,'' Misty respired tiredly.
''What's he doing?'' May panicked. ''Isn't this the 'perfect' time to recall Decidueye?''
''…zzz…I believe Ash is waiting for Bruno to do something. ''
''Throat Chop!''
Poliwrath charged, tucking back a clenched fist and filling it with white-hot energy. A slumbering target would be easy. A chop of punishing power hit Decidueye's neck, eliciting a wince from Ash. However, as Poliwrath brought down a second mighty chop, the sleeping form of the owl moved away, still peacefully sleeping.
''Keep going!''
A brutal chop it the ground that was targeted for Decidueye as the owl mischievously rolled side to side, and barreled down into the huge hole present on the battlefield. Wings slapped together and muscles relaxed, Decidueye's sleeping form kept falling into the dark trench.
"Are you ever going to attack, or are you just going to play keep-away!?" Bruno shouted from across the field.
Ash shrugged, "Meh. At some point. But for now, this is working pretty well."
''Looks like Ash is digging in and trying to get something going on! Could this be a part of his strategy?''
''Why is Ash so calm? Imagine the depth of that hole Decidueye is falling in!''
''He's definitely onto something!''
''Psychic!''
Poliwrath blinked, looking up at his trainer. There was too much darkness in that earth cavity to pick a target.
''We are gonna get Decidueye out! You can't keep playing hard ball for long!'' Bruno cringed. ''Water Pulse right into that hole!''
Huffing from his recent struggle, Poliwrath raised his fists and conjured a tiny tidal wave into the huge hole below. He flung the orb into the hole dug by Poliwrath.
A sweat trickled down Ash's face. ''Come on! This strategy has gotta work!''
The sphere of condensed water couldn't fare well against the gravity and heat of the hole, and burst. A thick blanket of water splashed against Decidueye's dormant form, and the bird woke up!
Hooting in confusion, he panicked that his wings were soaking. He sat up, puzzled at his surroundings, the bird blinked repeatedly. How did he get here?
''This is outrageous! Rock Slide!'' Bruno roared, exploiting his number of turns as long as the target was asleep.
Another cloud appeared above the large pit, subsequently huge masses of rocks were dropped into the hole below.
Decidueye felt something rumbling inside the cave. Curious, he raised his head and sighted the rocks raining down on the floor. He knew what that felt like, since it had only been six to seven minutes. Darting out of the way of suddenly summoned rocks, Decidueye breathed a sigh of relief, escaping being pinned for a second time. He exhaled, head raised to find something in front of him. The tunnel just didn't end there, but seemingly there was a new pathway into the earth.
Poliwrath kept forcing the rocks into the whole below, in an endeavor to finish Decidueye and meet the next adversary very soon. However, there was still no sign nor an echo of the owl below.
''Come on Ash!'' May cried out. ''Don't just stand there! Do something!''
''As if I has been my long lasting dream to lose this…''
''Spirit Shackle!''
''Be on your guard! It's gonna come out!'' Bruno roared, slamming his foot down. It was like he was conceding slight ground. There was a swift noise, Poliwrath could hear it. He tensed, balling his fist and furrowing his brows. At any moment, the foe would glide up, and this time he had to be ready.
Silence hung briefly, and Poliwrath remained steady but still impatient. Not even a single movement from the hole down below alerted him. And while Poliwrath's focus was totally occupied into the hole below, Decidueye soared upwards from the other exit: the second hole Onix had popped out of earlier.
''Oh no!'' Bruno held his head, gawking.
Decidueye was too fast for Poliwrath to retaliate, having already marked his target with the deadly precision he was known for. Nocking an arrow dipped with ghostly powers and fired it, locking Poliwrath's entire body into place.
''Poli! Poli!'' the Tadpole struggled, but any contact with the arrow would trigger an explosion he wasn't planning to take on.
''And there's Decidueye folks! He appeared so quickly and with such energy force, Poliwrath couldn't see it coming!''
''Oh, you're tricky…'' Bruno grumbled out, a smirk stretching his features.
''No trick, no treat!'' Ash smirked, dusting some powder of his shoulder.
Seeing Decidueye's form vaguely outlined in the atypical maelstrom, Ash called out. "Brave Bird!" They were running low on time and endurance. Ash was determined to give him a victorious end to his participation.
Energy burned into life around the Arrow Quill Pokemon, as he gave out a violent screech. His throat hurt but not his determinations. Decidueye glided straight at the trapped water type, crashing straight into him. A vicious explosion followed, and Poliwrath plummeted, suffering grievous damage. Decidueye winced too, sparks indicating he had suffered a shock of the recoil damage.
His feet were at the edge of the hole, and Bruno's fear overcame his mind. Losing the state of mindfulness, Poliwrath weakly groaned, body collapsing into the deep hole behind.
''wrath…''
''No Poliwrath!''
However, the huge muscular body was caught efficiently by a pair of talons, and Decidueye hovered out of the hole, and with a show of sportsmanship, kindly placed Poliwrath on the field. He acknowledged Bruno with a low bow and fluttered back to his side of the field. Bruno emotionally bear down, watching Poliwrath's lifeless body splayed out, enjoyed by the dirt on the floor.
The referee's left arm flew up, pointing the flag in his hand toward Ash's side of the field, ''Poliwrath is unable to battle, the winner is Decidueye! This means Master Bruno is only left with one Pokemon!''
"Yes!" Ash hollered, pumping a fist into the air, "Awesome job, Decidueye!"
''…ci!'' he hooted, rotating his body.
''You hear that folks! Ash has bagged another win and left Bruno with just one Pokemon remaining! Decidueye has survived this nail-biting showdown! With just some sweet move, Ash has turned the predator into the prey!''
Smiling down at another loss, Bruno returned Poliwrath right into the capsule he sent him out from. Such battles, where even champions found themselves down to last Pokemon, one must establish their opponents had earned a written respect.
''Excellent!'' May cheered.
Joyous by sensible, Ash took a brief break from the action to observe the scoreboard, gazing at the fifth blank spot in Bruno's column. His brows furrowed. 'Alright, four taken down, one more to go. Decidueye is running low on steam as well, but he's gotta try. I don't know what his next Pokemon will be, but whoever it is, it ain't gonna go down easily. Luckily, my last Pokemon is a Hulkbuster…''
''Well Ash,'' the martial artist put on a stern face. ''You pushed me hard enough! I knew you could blast me good my man, but your little journey ends here. Machamp, time for battle! Hoo Hah!''
From the Pokeball, emerged the fighting type whose evolutionary line was every fighter aspirant's pride. Each of them desired to have one of those cocky defenders. Machamp flexed all four of his mighty arms, cracking all four of its knuckle sets in turn.
''Only if had put a bet on that…''
''Folks, Ash Ketchum has one more challenge left, and I don't know what to say: if it's he's bad luck or he's been exceptional today, because Bruno's fifth Pokemon is Machamp! If any of Bruno's plans seem to fail, Machamp can bail him out! I smell a Last Resort action folks…These two better be carbing it up!''
''Machamp….'' The Superpower Pokemon flexed his muscles, the bulging size made Decidueye waver. That Pokemon was a perfect example to a honed body. Good thing, it never entered the Battle Royal Dome, or else Incineroar, his friend would have lost his popularity.
''Let me give you a proper introduction to the strongest fighting type Pokemon in this region Ash. Just like his name, he's a Champion. My partner since my younger days. He and I exposed to harsh environments, and communicated with our fists, and ultimately that was how the bond between us was formed since then.''
Despite how well-seasoned Bruno and his Pokemon were, Ash just couldn't help but smile at it. To have Bruno has an opponent was still a dream for many young trainers in the world, and here he is, learning about the bond between a Pokemon and its Trainer. With a smirk adorning his face, he was grateful to earn a speech by a one of the many grand trainers he encountered in his life.
''Wasn't thinking that far,'' Ash admitted with a chuckle. ''But you already witness what the bond between me and my Pokemon can do…''
''Kooroo!'' Decidueye agreed wholeheartedly, a cry that represented an agreement from whole of Ash's squad.
''Well then, let's go!'' Ash cried out. ''Psycho Cut!''
"Sai!" Decidueye cried out, throwing both of the crescent blades forward with deadly precision and accuracy. They aimed on a straight collision course for Machamp, making Ash wonder just how Bruno would retaliate to it.
''Focus Energy and Ice Punch!''
Standing back up, the fighting type quickly flexed his muscles, before holding all four hands out. The Superpower Pokémon rapidly punched at the blades, hitting them and freezing them to pieces instantly. Decidueye was now in range, leaping into the air and kicking down with his powerful talons. Machamp hadn't seen it coming, forcing him to get slammed and pushed slightly back, head bowed low. That didn't stop the other arms from snapping out with surprising reach and slamming Decidueye in the stomach with their own frozen intensity.
"Stand your ground, Machamp!" Bruno called out, his body brimming with authority. Decidueye was thrown backwards, his chest glowing blue, but Ash watched him a moment. In seconds, he knew that his partner was okay. "Move forward with Ice Punch!"
"Use Spirit Shackle!" Ash cried, crouching low and touching his hand to the stage's remnants. Decidueye did the same, but from where his wing swept the ground, an arrow pierced Machamp's chest, restraining his shadow to the ground. Machamp remained immobile, as if unsure of what to do while the roots kept him contained. "Now, get him with Leaf Blade!"
"Desai!" Decidueye hissed out with his hoot. He zoomed forward, blending in with the shadows like the Ghost type that he was. In seconds, he had reappeared right at their opponent and was slashing forward with his blades in a cross fashion that knocked Machamp backwards.
''Dual Chop, Machamp!''
He knew that things had likely changed, but he had simply been unsure of how. This, however, was proof of it; Bruno had been anticipating battling Decidueye at some point. Machamp's arms glowed a bright blue-purple and then slashed outward. Decidueye was right within range, slammed in the chest by one arm, before another battered upon his head. He cried out, clearly having taken heavy damage. Ash's eyes flitted around, hearing the gasps from everyone.
''Finish with Ice Punch!'' Bruno called, clearly looking to put an end to Decidueye. Machamp's fist shot out quicker than even Decidueye could get away from his previous attack, having anticipated the movement. His two hands grabbed on to his talons and held him there before the dual ice hammers came sailing out.
Decidueye unable to clear the distance, was rocked by the dual chilly fists. Machamp released him, and the owl was sent straight soaring off.
"Koo…" came the exhausted call as the dust cleared.
''Decidueye is unable to battle! Machamp is the winner! This leaves the challenger with only one Pokemon remaining!'' the referee called, lowering a green flag towards Bruno.
Ash ran forward, bending low and draping his stalwart Pokémon over him before dragging him over to the rest of his friends.
''And with Machamp's win, the score is now dead even which sets up a sweet final round to decide the whole match!''
"You were amazing, Decidueye. You've really grown," he said to his Pokémon. The archer nodded, seemingly even happier when Mimey dropped a berry into his lap. ''You take plenty of rest,'' Ash glared at Machamp. ''I just happen to know someone suitable for this job.''
"Koo…" Decidueye agreed, as he was sucked back into his capsule.
''Play this one carefully Ash,'' Misty crooned. ''You can't take any chances here.''
''I know,'' Ash nodded, exhaling a deep breath. He pulled out the last finalized Pokeball, and stared deep at it. ''It's all upto you now.'''
''We are all tied up folks and this battle decides it! How often do we find ourselves in this predicament?''
Tossing the Pokeball out, Ash took a decisive point position. ''Let's go, Primeape!''
The Pig Monkey Pokémon burst out from its Poké Ball, eagerly bouncing back and forth on its toes. ''prah!''
Primeape zeroed in on Machamp, and the heavy fighting-type leered and gave a seemingly aloof snort at the sight of the fighting-type. Seeing the weightlifter's reaction to his appearance, Primeape sneered angrily, beating his chest.
"I didn't know Ash had a Primeape." May said.
''zzz… …They're supposed to be really prone to bursts of anger, which makes them a lot stronger..zzz…"
May blinked, a sudden tremor quaked the chair. Curious she turned to find Misty and Brock latched against one another, trembling against one another.
''Brock…he's called in…that….''
''…I am not wearing any guard today…'' the doctor whimpered.
''What's got your skin shaking?''
''Too much bad memories…''
''This is gonna be interesting! Two forces are about to collide here! This is one in a millennia matchup folks so sit tight! Word in the street is that Primeape has been the undefeated P1 Grand Prix Champion for ten years straight! And by the look on Primeape's face, a street fight is exactly it's looking for!''
''A fighting type!'' Bruno went wild with his interest piqued. ''Now I'm all riled up!''
"We won't lose," Ash challenged, looking fiery and bold. "I'll be expecting great stuff, though."
Primeape's fighting spirit was renewed. He'd give Machamp the challenge he was looking for!
Soon, the distinctive cry from the referee marked the beginning of the match.
''Start with Mega Kick!''
The Pig Monkey Pokémon whirled around, lunging forward with a foot outstretched.
''Vital Throw!''
Grabbing Primeape with two of his hands, the Machamp began to tuck in, pulling the fighting type against himself. Rolling forward and flipping, the fighting type sent Primeape flinging away. The other fighting type skidded across the floor, stopping right in front of the huge hole.
''Man,'' Ash breathe. ''That was close. Primeape, show them your Smackdown!''
On Ash's command, Primeape turned around, supporting himself with trembling arms. Flinging a scattering an orb of crusted earth forward, it struck Machamp hard enough to make the brute stagger and try to clear its eyes.
"Tch… Tryna blind us. Fine! Machamp, Bulk Up." Bruno knew better than to waste time with his challenger.
"This is our chance!" Ash yelled. "Primeape, Seismic Toss!"
The ape got up, rushing to try to grab Machamp.
"Machamp! Vital Throw again!"
With a longer reach and greater size, Machamp's arms snapped out, grabbing Primeape and stopping him in his tracks. Lifting the furry monkey Pokémon, Machamp threw him like a weight.
''Follow up with Dual Chop!''
In short order, Machamp was upon Primeape, even before the Pokémon could land!
''Mega Kick!'' He was going to have to go with brains over brawn this time.
Eyes that went wide furrowed again, It was all Primeape could do to not squeak in fearful anticipation. Instead, he ducked, striking Machamp's shin with a brutal kick. A jolt of pain halted the larger Pokemon's arms, bringing the mighty fighting type, knocked flat on his back.
"Good. Now, Smackdown!"
"Praaaahhhmmmmapppe!…!" Primeape cried sorely, forming another powerful shard above his head. He enjoyed it oh-so-much when he got the opportunity to smash the attack into his downed opponent.
Dust clouded the battlefield, and everyone master on Bruno's side winced.
Little was left to the question when Machamp could be seen, smirking as with just one hand, he crushed the rock in his hand.
Standing back up, the fighting type quickly flexed his muscles before holding his hands out. The time had been whittled away by Primeape's stubborn insistence that a Smackdown attack would eventually stop Machamp! It was only when a sphere of rubble as Machamp himself has tore.
''Close Combat!''
Still, there was no holding back in this fight. The move fed into Primeape's anger and the Pig Monkey Pokémon bounded over to Machamp with two glowing fists.
"Let him come to you, Machamp! Then, use Submission!"
Primeape ran at Machamp, though he paused at the last moment. Recalling the crushing embrace of the fighting type's many arms, the fighting type leered for an opening. The two postured like this for a brief while. When Primeape took a jolting step forward, ready to jet towards a vulnerable opening, Machamp would adjust his posture, compensating for it.
Primeape landed nearly a dozen punches and kicks in the space of a few seconds, causing Machamp to fall to one knee.
However, time was a precious thing and they were running low on it.
''There's no matchup for that kind of power!''
''Go for it!'' Bruno roared.
Giving in, Primeape leaped up, aiming to knock more punches with Machamp. And, sure enough, the Close Combat was coming to an end! Machamp was sent onto his back, stars briefly floating before his eyes…
But, before anyone knew it, the fighting type kicked out to his panting adversary, knocking Primeape onto his own side. Then, the fighting type was on top of the other. The brief wrestling match ended with masterful care. Machamp caught Primeape up so that the pugilist couldn't move at all, only thrash desperately!
Try as he might, though, Primeape couldn't escape the hold. The simian was sent flying across the ground with a howl of pain.
''Oh That's gotta hurt for sure! That Submission hold is so vicious, you just can't get out of it!''
''Primeape!'' he was hurt, but still conscious. "Hey, are you okay? You can't give up. Get in there and turn things around with your Power Up Punch!"
Pushing himself back to his feet, Primeape fumed out smoke from his nostrils. He sprinted towards the larger fighting type, drawing a ignited fist back. Screeching, he executed a harsh whip of his fist to deal out retribution.
''Bulk Up and Vital Throw!''
Flexed out once again, powerful chest muscles let the smaller ape return the damage, however, Machamp grappled the puncher in a bear again, spinning him in a loop. Primeape became dizzy under the duress, being thrown up into the air.
''Round and Round!''
''Primeape!'' Sweat trickled off the trainer's brow, eyes wide as he watched his Pokémon soar. ''Watch out!''
Still airborne, the fighting type's eyes shot open upon the trainer's words being heard, turned down upon the Machamp below. He would then dive headfirst, tucking his arms and legs in. The light weighted Pokémon eyed his target like a bird of prey, rapidly descending towards the ring.
''Power up Punch!''
Energy poured into its hand, causing it to glow, and the Pig Monkey Pokémon tumbled closer toward Machamp, every intention on slamming the punch into Machamp's gut and the continue the relentless assault.
''Focus Energy and block that!''
However, before Bruno could get a good look and realize Primeape was still too close, Machamp let out a grunt of pain, definitely not a fan of being punched into the head.
''Too fast, weren't they?'' Bruno chuckled. It was all a grand game to him. He was taking this seriously, but the sport demanded it all be taken in stride and in good spirit.
''Close Combat!'' Ash ordered again.
Obeying, Primeape tensed up. Then, it was time to start the beat down. He lashed out wildly, though he still kept aware enough of himself to avoid critical hits. Beyond that, though, it was a free for all frenzy of flailing limbs and full out punches and kicks.
''Just…look at Primeape go,'' Misty couldn't help but cringe, the Pig Monkey's relentless ferocity still fresh in her mind after all these years.
Facial features twisting, Bruno was forced to react quickly. ''Keep blocking!''
Thrusting all four of his arms out, blocking became the weightlifter's main focus, allowing his four palms to absorb as much as the numerous attacks. Primeape's attacks were growing more furious, and those hands had its limitations of suffering. Blows began to scrape the Superpower Pokémon, soon pummeling him with one hit after another.
''Counter!''
After taking a beating like that, nothing was more pleasurable in the world to retaliate. Machamp returned the favor with a super powerful kick. Primeape took the devastating kick, reeling towards the floor. His furry, rotund body pushed to his limits.
"This is bad… Really, really bad…!"
''Dual Chop, keep going!''
Primeape couldn't earn the time enough, before the huge shadow sprang right away at him, his shadow dwarfing the ape, before Machamp began showering with multicolored punches.
While Ash's confidence began to slip with each passing blow, the Primeape's rage only grew to boil. Nostrils puffed together, eyes concealed. Intolerance won over primal instinct. He let out a squeal, piggy side showing through clearly, his body steaming and glowing red.
The Pig Monkey lashed out with a wild volley of punches and kicks. Unhinged and undisciplined, he began to strike out against Machamp's relentless assault.
Primeape's furor had been dominating, relentless attack by the seasoned Pokémon winning out over good eye and technique. Soon enough, though, Machamp found himself greeted with quite the surprise. Feral, relentless attacks were continued by the ape, unrestrained from any sort of planned assault. Hints of a pattern showed, though, however unrefined they were. And, the hints hurt like a bitch.
''Is…that?'' Gawking at the relentless barrage of blows being dealt out by his Primeape, a small recognition popped in his eyes.
''Primeape feels strong all of a sudden. But how?'' May said, questioning the electronic encyclopedia.
''…I believe this is Primeape's Rage attack!'' the mechanical voice recited. ''Primeape's attack increases everytime he takes a hit.''
Eyes turned back towards the field, a more urgent matter at hand. "Keep hitting hard with Power up Punch, Primeape! Give 'em all you've got! You can do it!''
The simian was only seeing red at this point, throwing punch after punch, and a kick whenever he saw fit. His pride as a fighting type was being tested, but Machamp's strikes seemed to persevere. The two pummeled one another, one with more precision than the next.
''Look at these two go head to head!''
And that experience won out in the form of a bone-rattling kick, knocking Primeape back through the air. The Pig Monkey Pokémon tumbled, only to land on one knee, scratched, beaten, and short of breath. Despite the rush of adrenaline, Machamp still proved stronger.
A less trained Machamp would have given in to pure rage. Though he was perfectly capable of taking on his species' characteristic habit of going berserk during battle, and at random, he had much better self-control.
''That's effective,'' Brock noted. ''With Rage, Primeape only get stronger after every hit received, and to execute it, Power up Punch is the most suitable move, that increases their Attack stat by one stage.''
As such, when Primeape was finally flung back, he paused, stance stone still exactly where he had been when what he assumed was the final blow was thrown. He relaxed a bit, getting back into defensive mode, watching him, waiting on the next instruction.
''Power Up Punch!''
Ash's words were shouted to the heavens, and they were heeded. A single fist was brandished, positively shining with the remainder of the Pokémon's fight-or-flight rush. A loud, high-pitched cry was uttered, a speedy leap carrying the Primeape forward as he swung his fist towards Machamp with all of his might.
He was strong, Bruno had to admit.
''Vital Throw!''
Quickly clutching the fighting type in his arms, Machamp had his foe where he wanted, once again squeezing the life out of him.
''Overheat!''
Ash smirked, finally punching through Machamp's lock. Primeape fumed, not just eyes, but even his body had began to glow red to the extent, Machamp's hands couldn't bear the heat of it, and Primeape was released from the four arms lock. Machamp squealed, blowing his arms that had caught a burn, while Primeape's anger was driving off a cliff.
Spewing the hot gushing orange flames, the Superpower Pokemon was sent soaring across the floor.
''And Primeape's gonzo now!''
Machamp winced, holding up an arm on the floor, to regain his bearings. His body was minor ignited in flames, as the fighting type howled in pain.
''Seismic Toss!''
''Bulk up and Submission!'' Bruno called at once, prompting Machamp to brace himself. A bright blue light surrounded his form, muscles powering up to their peak as he threw himself forward. Primeape was rattled by a brutal clothesline, falling back from his footing with Machamp keeping an iron grip.
Digging one foot into the ground, Primeape regained his footing, wrapping its arms around Machamp's much larger waist. Using his spectacular strength, he hoisted the fighting type off the ground, Ash and Bruno watched with equal amounts of shock.
''Prahhhammmmaaappee!'' Swinging Machamp around in circles, Primeape flung him forward like a rock out of a slingshot, making him skid across the torn arena floor, kicking up a curtain of dust.
''Now for the final kill!'' Ash brushed his nose. ''Punishment!''
The fur of the pig-monkey bristled as he waited, leg crackling with dark energy magnificently. Hoisting himself in the air, he made a cartwheel, screeching out his name angrily.
In that moment, all that existed was the desperate struggle of the battle. In one last final Body leg drop, Primeape decided the end of the tussle. Cough and spit went flying from Machamp's mouth, as Primeape's heel punctured his chest.
''CHAAMMMMPPPP!''
The silence persisted as the Superpower Pokémon's hands couldn't strain any longer and they were thrown to their sides. Machamp's breaths slowed, eyes turned to swirls, limbs limp.
''Machamp is unable to battle! Primeape wins, and thus making Ash the winner of this battle!''
''That's it! This battle is history! The winner is Primeape! Well, you know what they say: he who laughs wins the hard way! I should be writing these down!''
''He did it!'' Misty cheered, holding hands with Mimey. ''How did he even pull that wicked upside for a win?''
Ash was quick to approach Primeape next, catching the tired monkey in his arms. "That was wicked! You've gotten super strong over the years, Primeape! I'm totally proud of you."
The fighting type's unspoken wishes were granted. Looking up, he merely hugged Ash back, clearly struggling to fight back tears. It was all happening over again…! He was truly as proud of himself as Ash was, but, somehow he felt as if there was more for him to do, now. He might have possibly defeated one of the best Pokemon in his career.
Speaking of which, Bruno arrived, clapping Ash on the shoulder only to make an apologetic noise when he realized he might not appreciate that. He instead focused on ruffling Primeape's fur, spotting the faintest signs of tears in the corner of the surprisingly softhearted Pokémon's eyes. ''You fought bravely Primeape, against an opponent you shouldn't have been able to beat. You're something else aren't you?''
''Pra….''
''Champ…'' the wicked Superpower Pokemon behind Bruno agreed.
''…ape…''
''Master Bruno…''
''Having lost, I don't have much to say…except my job here is done.'' The large man mumbled. ''I am not saddened by my loss at all. After all, the new generation always surpasses the old ones.''
''Master Bruno, I just want to say, I really enjoyed our battle today,'' Ash extended a hand, a genuine smile on his face. ''And I will give you your rematch any time you ask for it.''
''We gotta do a whole lotta training for that,'' Bruno accepted the handshake, gripping a bit tighter than expected. ''You will find your next adversary, Karen in Porta Vista. Prepare yourself as she has a battling style different than mine.''
''Thanks for the info, Master Bruno.'' Ash grinned. ''I look forward to it.''
The two gave each other a brief nod, followed by a recognition by the two fighting types. Bruno turned around, and flexed himself before walking off on the trail separated by the masters of the dojo, who respectfully bowed the legend until his exit.
"Ash!" called an enthusiastic voice. Behind Brock, the rest of the group was headed toward him at a much more reasonable pace.
''Hey Ash!'' Brock rushed to him first. ''Congratulations! You re now just one step away from beating Lance!''
''You were incredible out there!'' Misty cheered.
May reached him next, throwing her arms around his neck and ensnaring him in a hug. When they pulled apart, he saw that she was absolutely beaming. Before she could say anything, though, the rest of the group piled around Ash in a clamor, heaping congratulations upon him.
''Mime, Mr. Mime!''
''Hey there,'' Misty cooed, lowering herself for Primeape. ''Remember us?''
''Primme….Primeappe!''
''There's the champ!'' Brock went forward to ruff the happy ape's fur, only the timing served him poorly, as he tripped on a small rock, and stumbled an unintentional headbutt in the Pig Monkey Pokemon.
Misty gasped, while May gawked.
''Ow…didn't see that coming…'' Brock lifted himself, rubbing his forehead.
''Your 'ow' is about to turn into a 'Oh, crap!' Ash mocked, pleased at the turn of events.
''It was nice knowing you Brock,'' Misty whimpered, hiding behind Ash.
''Huh?'' the doctor blinked. ''What are you guys talking abou~''
''Prahhh….''
''Huh?''
Standing in front of him was quite a displeased primate, snorting out rants. Within an instant he had launched at Brock, one foot forward.
''Ahh! Save me!'' the doctor yowled, pummeled by the barrages and kicks.
''Ah…This brings back memories…'' Ash contented, smiled.
And Part Bruno is done, finally!
Please note: I am about to make a short change in Chapter 48 where I have stated that Ash will be battling Leaf who acts as the final Elite Four Member. I have reconsidered my choices and found Karen most suitable for the part. Karen is an Elite Four who is not written much about, and I want to give it a chance. That being aid, I am immediately starting with the script for her. It will as usual be a two part, and the difficulty level will be extremely hard.
Q&A
Will you introduce Goh?
There's a small chance I might.
Are there other Elite Four members Ash will battle?
Yes, Elite Four of Sinnoh and Kalos.
Will Ash use Zacian?
No.
Is May gonna Enter Contests?
Yes, but also some Showcases.
I would love to appreciate all of you who read the stories, as I recently crossed 200 followers. Thank you so much!
