Author's Note:

Here it is, the start of the group match ups and what I consider the real battles of the silver conference. We also get the setup of what will be Ash's main challenge to overcome within the league and because I feel it would be cliche at this point, it isn't a romantic challenge but something more attuned to his Pokémon. We also get to see the apex of the love triangle set up around Leaf and remember when I said I'd be doing the famed Charizard versus Blastoise battle in this conference... that's in this chapter too, it's just a little different to how the anime did it. I will say I probably made Drake seem somewhat villainous in this chapter... but that's intentional. Happy new year, here's hoping to a better one than last year for everyone. Don't forget to vote in the poll, which won't change again until we reach Hoenn and with that, let's begin!


Chapter 92: Silver Conference - Battles of the Heart

"Ash..." a soft voice whispered in his ear, "Ash it's time to wake up..."

He stirred in his sleep and groggily opened his eyes. His vision was blurry, but he blinked and saw the sunny day out of the window. Shuffling slightly, he realised he was lying on his stomach and the bed felt... different. His eyes widened and froze as he quickly registered why. Every fibre of his being fighting against his eyes as he looked down but eventually, he did and saw Serena lying underneath him, a coy smile on her face as his cheeks heated up.

"Morning," she greeted.

"Erm, um," he stuttered, "...hi."

She chuckled and pushed herself up. Her nose brushing against his, leaning in to kiss him a couple of times before pulling back, sitting up and placing her hands on his face, encouraging him to rest on his knees, "no need to be nervous, Ashy. I enjoyed having you as an extra blanket, to keep me warm."

Pulling his face forward, she placed another kiss on his lips. Letting him go, she swung her legs to the side.

"I'm going to go for a shower then visit Leaf," she explained, "I know that Drake told her in no uncertain that he wouldn't date her. And I don't want her to be alone."

"Okay," he replied, "once the battling is over, I'll speak to Drake. I don't want to make him go back on his decision because that wouldn't help anyone in the long run but maybe he would say something to help her... I dunno."

"Just don't try to push him into it," Serena suggested, "if its forced and obvious, that would only hurt her more."

"You seem to know a lot about having a heart broken?" Ash pointed out.

"It's because every day before we got together, my mind would plague of thoughts of the worst case scenario," Serena admitted, she placed another kiss on his lips before standing up, "I know I don't need to worry about that now but if she is going through any of those thoughts, she'll need a lot of support."

Nodding in understanding, his girlfriend disappeared into the bathroom with her regular travelling clothes. Hearing the shower run, he realised that he should just get ready since his girlfriend has a habit of taking a while to get ready and he was hungry. So, he did. Once dressed, he made sure the three Pokéballs on his belt were those he planned on using in his battle against Macy. With Pikachu on his shoulder, he set out into the hotel.

As he made his way to the cafeteria, he first saw Gary sat at a couch in the longue with his Umbreon out. He was brushing the dark type eeveelution and appeared to be discussing something. While he would normally go over to say hi, he didn't want to interrupt, and his stomach growled at him.

Making his way into the cafeteria, he grabbed a plate and went through the buffet, filling it up with the selection available. He looked around but couldn't see either Serena or Leaf. He knew Misty and Brock were at the Pokémon centre so they wouldn't be here. As he continued to scan the room for either a free seat or someone he knew, his eyes landed on his brother who appeared to be having a simple meal of tea and toast with his Marowak. He made his way over.

"Hey," he greeted.

Drake looked up and seemed to raise an eyebrow, "hey. What are you doing here?"

"Getting breakfast," he shrugged, taking the seat opposite and placing his much larger plate on the table. His brother gave a not-so-discrete glance before drifting attention to his own breakfast, finally locking eyes with his brother.

"How are we related again?" he asked.

"Brothers," Ash shook his head, a smile on his face, "anyway, I wanted to talk to ya. After yesterday-"

"If this is about Leaf or some effort to get me to change my mind then forget it," Drake cut him off, "I have no interest and she'd be better off with Gary. At least he isn't opposed to the idea of being with her."

"I don't want you to change your mind," Ash replied, "just maybe... speak to her, let her down gentler."

"Kiddy gloves doesn't work, I had been trying the gentle approach of getting her to leave since we set foot in Johto," Drake dismissed, "although she did pick a good time. I couldn't have timed it better myself."

"What do you mean?" Ash asked.

"Gary. I'm facing him later," Drake replied.

"Yeah, I know," Ash shrugged, finally digging into his meal, "I might be a little late to watching if my match overruns, but I was planning on meeting the guys to watch it."

"Right," Drake nodded, "anyway, Gary already made it clear that he would teach me a lesson for breaking Leaf's heart."

"I fail to see how this is a good thing," Ash admitted.

"Simple, he's not thinking clearly. He's letting her rule his head," Drake admitted, "its why if I were to battle you, I might try to get Serena to infatuate you beforehand. I can use his blind spot to win the mental battle then it's as simple as counting my three points already."

"Isn't that a little heartless?" Ash asked, "how could you consider such an underhanded tactic?"

"Because I want to win and he's the one who brought Leaf into it," Drake replied, "a famous philosopher once said - all's fair in love and war - well Gary made this about love... I'm going to make it about war."

He watched as his brother stood up and walked away. Part of Ash wanted to warn Gary about this since, it's a pretty mean way to win a battle but he decided against it. While he doesn't want his brother to go down this path, he also doesn't want to get in the middle. He has strong relationships between all three sides involved and picking one might isolate the others from him. Sighing, he glanced down at his half-eaten breakfast.

"Pikachu... why was the world so much simpler when romance and girls weren't so obvious?" he asked.

His electric starter, instead of replying, seemed to be drinking the tomato ketchup from the bottle he picked up at the counter... if only his problems could have such an easy fix.


Making it into the stadium, he was quickly escorted across to the waiting room on the way out to the field. Sat on the bench, he made sure he only had the three Pokéballs attached to his belt which he intended to use. Pikachu was perched on his shoulder like always, but they sat in a comfortable silence. His heart beating against his chest. He closed his eyes as he tried to calm himself down. While when in the heat of battle the audience disappears, it's still nerves wracking beforehand. He wanted to fiddle with the microphone pinned to his jacket but resisted the urge through fear of breaking it.

"Alright folks, here is the first battle from the D block of trainers! On the left, its Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town and on the right its Macy Moe from Mahogany Town!" the announcer's voice echoed throughout the stadium, "so let's give them both a Silver conference welcome as they make their way out onto the field."

Taking a deep breath, he stood up from his seat and began walking towards the light. Pikachu jumped off his shoulder and together they walked into the blinding light. An ear bursting roared deafened him as he stepped out onto the field. Making his way over to the nearest trainer's box, he looked around as the seas of people in the stadium above. His eyes cast over the middle screen which showed his image along with Macy's, blow which the referee stood in the traditional green uniform. As he reached his destination, he looked across the field and saw Macy stood with her arms crossed and a confident smirk on her face.

"I know your one of Brocky-poo's friends but that doesn't change the fact I'm gonna win this for him!" she called out.

Ash felt embarrassment for his older brother figure. He knew the feeling of having someone confess their feelings in front of a large audience, he doesn't even like having Serena show affection in public because of it so he could only imagine the breeder's reaction.

"This is the first time red trainer Macy is competing in a regional tournament but she made quite a reputation for herself when she won a fire type only competition at the Cherrygrove yearly harvest festival!" the announcer explained, "while her opponent, green trainer Ash Ketchum has already competed in last year's Indigo league, where he earnt a top four placement and won the following Orange league which is difficult to even be invited to. Those feats combined, along with his victory in this year's whirl cup has made him a favourite to win this entire competition. Now it's time to get this battle underway and so I'll pass it over to our referee for the match to explain the rules."

"This will be a three on three battle between our two trainers, where either side can make substitutions at any point and there is no time limit. Both sides have registered their teams beforehand but can use those registered in any order," the ref explained, he raised a hand up to gesture to the score board above. A circle split into equal segments of red and green appeared between the two images of each trainer. Three empty slots under each trainer where their respective Pokémon would go. The top segment lit up before it travelled around clockwise, skipping from segment to segment. Finally, landing on a red segment, "it's been decided that Macy shall reveal her Pokémon first. Once one side loses all three Pokémon then a victor will be called. Should it result in a tie then each trainer will have a five-minute intermission before coming back for a final match where both sides reveal a fourth Pokémon."

The young girl unclipped a Pokéball from her belt and tossed it high into the air, "you're up Magcargo!"

In a flash of light, the female lava slug Pokémon appeared on the field, letting out a loud battle cry. He ran his hand down to his three Pokéballs, he knew Houndoom had a strong friendship with Brock's Magcargo and likely wouldn't want to face her as a result and he had to save Tauros for Electabuzz so-

"I choose you, Lapras!" he shouted, releasing his water ice type. She let out an elegant cry as she thudded on the field.

"I figured you'd bring a water type," Macy smirked, holding her Pokéball out and recalling her Magcargo. She quickly switched it out with another device and tossed it up into the air, "which means you're up, Electabuzz."

In a flash of light, the humanoid electric type appeared on the field. Slamming its fists together, sparks jumped off his whole body. He let out a loud cry, as if to intimidate them. He wasn't a stranger to this Pokémon by any means and he knew they were powerful opponents, so he reached for his Pokéball.

"I'm putting in a five-minute substitution block so we can get this battle started," the ref declared, before he could recall his transport Pokémon.

He always figured there was some sort of rule to prevent trainers constantly switching to try and get the advantage, but he wasn't happy by how quickly it was implemented. Then again, Macy has revealed two of her three Pokémon so in a way it sorts of evens out.

"Electabuzz versus Lapras," the ref raised by flags, waving them both down, "let the battle begin!"


Macy versus Ash: Round One

Ash barely had time to react as a bolt of lightning shot across the field. Lapras breathed out an Icy Wind to barely divert it off course.

The electric Pokémon charged forward with his fists being coated in electricity. Reaching the water ice type, he punched her with each fist, and she was knocked back by the force. Spinning in one swift motion, his tail seemed to cover in metal as it was on course for Lapras' head.

She was quick to launch an ice ball out of her mouth into the tail, knocking him off balance. With the electric type kneeling in front of her, she sent him flying back with a powerful Ice Beam. He skidding across the floor, he landed in front of Macy on his stomach.

With the distance covered, Ash knew he had to keep it that way, "cover the field in ice!"

Lapras let out an elegant cry and a cloud of mist exhaled from her shell. An icy chill built in it and as it faded, the floor was revealed to be covered by ice.

"We don't need to get close to win!" Macy shouted, "Thunder!"

Electabuzz stood up, clearly taking careful care to not fall over. Crouching low onto all fours, a ball of electricity surrounded him before a much larger bolt of lightning shot forward. Roaring as it torn across the air.

Lapras used her flippers to slide herself to the side, narrowly avoiding the powerful attack. Ash had to dive for cover as well, as it soared over head.

"I'm issuing a yellow ticket to the red trainer Macy Moe for almost attacking her opponent," the ref declared.

Sighing in relief as he stood up, he dusted his clothes off. Turning his attention back towards the battle he saw Lapras quickly sliding across the field with her head pointed forward, a ball of psychic type energy on her horn.

Electabuzz flinched. Being tackled into the side of the stadium as his transport Pokémon switched from Zen Headbutt into a Body Slam.

"No Lapras! Get off him now!" he shouted out, as he saw the smirk on Macy's face.

His water ice type turned around with a look of surprise covering her face. She may be getting stronger, but her strategy in battle still needs work.

A powerful blast of electricity engulfed her and sent her flying backwards. She slowly slides across the field, smoking from the blast as Electabuzz stood up.

"Use Life Dew and try to heal up!" Ash called out.

She let out an elegant cry once more as her body began to glow. He smiled at her recovery but quickly refocused his attention on their opponent.

"Look out!" he tried to warn.

It was too late. Electabuzz was sliding across the field on his back and delivered a powerful low kick, knocking Lapras off balance. Grabbing onto her shell, he used the momentum to get onto her back as her healing was cut short.

Sparks jumped off his body as an even larger ball of electricity surrounded them both. The large bolt of lightning shooting high into the air as the roar ripped through the stadium. When it fades, Lapras was down with swirls in her eyes and Electabuzz walking back towards Macy.

"Lapras is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of this first round Macy and her Electabuzz."


Ash bite his lower lip as he recalled the water ice type to her Pokéball. He should've known that, whilst powerful thanks to her training at the lab, she still lacked proper battle strategies. He'd need to get one of his more experienced Pokémon to help her with that, maybe Aerodactyl or Tauros. Although right now he can't focus on that, so he looked down at the device containing his own Pokémon, "thank you, Lapras, you did great so rest up."

"And Macy makes a huge upset by taking down Lapras first despite being issued a yellow ticket violation," the announcer explained, "it's still anyone battle so now we need to wait and see which of Ketchum's two remaining Pokémon shall be used first."

Going over his last two options, he knew he had to play it safe. Those fighting moves Electabuzz knows could be dangerous for either of them to face and the ice field doesn't exactly help either of them but... maybe he could still use it to his advantage. With his decision made, he took out his Safari Ball.

"I choose you, Tauros!" Ash shouted.

In a flash of light, his normal type appeared on the icy field but seemed stable on all four legs. He grunted something as he slammed his front right hoove down, breaking the ice and scrapping it across the floor.

Looking towards his opponents, he saw Macy in deep thought, clearly trying to decide whether or not to swap Pokémon. Electabuzz stood in front of her and crouched low. Shouting something at Tauros about him being an old timer and past it. Seeing his normal type's eye's narrow, Ash knew he wasn't happy about being ridden off. Tauros may not be his strongest Pokémon but when it comes to experience, he is one of the best and certainly not weak by any means.

"I guess you're right, Electabuzz, you're fighting moves are the only real counter we have right now," Macy shrugged, "so let's go two for two."

"And Macy has decided to stick with her Electabuzz, while Ketchum went with his Tauros!" the announcer explained, among the cheering crowd, "we've seen his Tauros in action before at both the Indigo League and Orange League but never seemed to be head of the pack so what could they be planning now, especially with the ice covered battle still in play! That seems like it would make it more difficult for Tauros to charge!"

"Electabuzz versus Tauros," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Macy versus Ash: Round Two

Ash's narrowed his eyes as the battle started, knowing Tauros has a better handle on battles than Lapras, he wasn't worried in the slightest.

Macy's electric type Pokémon ran forward a couple steps before sliding onto his back. With his leg outstretched on a clear path for Tauros, they clearly took him as a sitting duck on the ice. His speed wasn't great but much faster than if he had been running.

Tauros reared up slightly and slammed his front hooves down on the field. The stadium shook as the ice shattered around them.

Chunks of the self-made battlefield broke off and flew into Electabuzz, knocking him off course. Tauros took the chance and charged forward, each step adding to the earthquake as the once detrimental battlefield returned to its former self, aside from chunks of ice scattered everywhere.

He slammed into the downed electric Pokémon and swerved his head underneath. Getting him caught on his horns, he tossed Electabuzz across the field.

The pure electric type landed against the wall, his back holding him up although he was clearly wobbly on his feet.

Tauros quickly began making a turn, needing a wide berth to maintain momentum. As the earthquake seemed to settle down.

He charged headfirst into the electric type, who somehow managed to grab his horns. Despite being pushed against the ground, he was able to get a grip on the wild bull. The two seemed locked in a stale mate.

His normal type attempted to send him flying once more but Electabuzz used the momentum and hoist himself onto Tauros' back, sparks jumping off his body.

Tauros, however, seemed prepared and began thrashing around. Macy's Pokémon lost concentration as he struggled to remain on his back.

Being thrown overhead, Electabuzz landed on his back and in front of Tauros. Snorting down as he loomed over, Ash swore he saw the faintest smirk form on his normal type's face as he fully reared back on his back legs. Slamming down each hoove either side of their opponent, he unleashed a full powered earthquake once more.

Ash struggled to remain standing and had to sit down as Pikachu leaped onto his head.

Turning back towards the field, he saw his normal type approaching at a leisurely pace as the referee moved behind to presumably inspect their opponent.

"Electabuzz is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of this second round Ash and his Tauros."


Brock smiled as he watched the field down below. While he was surprised to see Ash lose Lapras so early, he also knew that he was in a good position, even if not knowing what team he's using. Tauros complimented Lapras' style nicely with one being more of a sponge to take attack and the other hyper offensive.

"And Ketchum has evened it up by bringing out his Tauros to stampede over Electabuzz and destroying the icefield his Lapras created in one go," the announcer explained, "the question is now, will Macy go with her Magcargo or her final Pokémon which we still don't know."

He watched as the young girl switched her Pokéball for another and released her Magcargo. The female lava slug looked pretty tiny compared to Tauros, who towered over her, not that any sign of fear or hesitation could be seen. Even when a close up of the fire rock type was placed on the big screen. Smiling down at the sight, he reached into his back and pulled out the thing he brought yesterday, placing it on his lap.

"What's that Brock?" Misty asked.

"It's a heat proof pillow, specifically designed for fire types like Magcargo," Brock explained, "this way he can watch his daughter battle and I don't need to worry about him burning me."

"Cool, so I guess that your planning on letting him watch?" she asked.

"Of course," Brock smiled, reaching for the Pokéball off his belt. He released his own Magcargo, who looked around and appeared to be taking in his surroundings before focusing on his daughter down on the battlefield, "and when she faces off against Vincent too. I couldn't let him pass up the chance to see his daughter compete, after all."

"Cargo," he smiled and nodded, clearly showing his gratitude. Brock returned the gesture and focused back down onto the field. While he knew that Ash held a major advantage right now, he was deciding not to voice that sentiment as to not upset his own lava Pokémon and instead let the battle play out.

"And Macy has decided to try and stop Ash's Tauros with her Magcargo," the announcer explained, "this is looking like the ultimate match up of an unstoppable force, meeting an unmoveable object!"

"Magcargo versus Tauros," the ref declared, his voice echoing through the PA system, "let the battle begin!"


Macy versus Ash: Round Three

Ash watched carefully as his wild bull Pokémon took off in a charge straight for Magcargo. While he felt every step of his stampede, it wasn't nearly as bad when he used earthquake previously. He could barely make out the lava Pokémon from behind his normal type.

A stream of flames shot out and forced his Tauros to divert off course. He looped around before stopping near his trainer, "I have faced defensive Pokémon before and fire types before, but a defensive fire type is a new one on me."

Clenching his fist, he releasing that he never actually got an idea of how Magcargo fight since Brock's hasn't been used in battle yet. Another stream of flames charged towards Tauros, who quickly began running out of the way, "keep moving Tauros and I'll try to think of something."

As he watched his normal type start charging around, keeping it at a low enough speed to make turning easier but fast enough that Magcargo couldn't hit him with her flamethrowers. It was at this moment he realised a major downside to his Tauros' move set, all his attacks involve getting close. Even if a long-ranged attack wouldn't be as effective as when Pikachu or someone else used it, the option would be really nice right about now.

"Try to break her concentration with earthquake!" Ash shouted.

His wild bull Pokémon came to a sudden stop and sent his momentum upwards as he reared up. Slamming his hooves down, the ground started shaking.

Watching the lava Pokémon closely, he saw it grimace as it was stuck with the powerful attack. Although she never moved from her spot.

"Now's your chance!" Macy shouted.

Magcargo's eyes burst open and she launched another flamethrower out. It stuck Tauros head on and sent him flying back, ending the earthquake.

He slammed into the wall and flopped down on his stomach, his eyes were open and his winced as his fur was crisp with flames.

Macy's rock fire type glew a bright white as cracks formed around her body. She broke out and jumped up curling up into her rock back, she began rolling towards Tauros with surprising speed. Slamming into his side, he cried out in pain as she turned and picked up momentum.

"What a turn of events!" the announcer shouted among the cheers, "Magcargo has completely switched battle tactics and now has Tauros on the ropes!"

Magcargo took a wide beneath around the field, picking up speed as she rolled. Tauros struggled back to his feet, flames sneering his fur's end.

"Tauros, we need to take this down now!" Ash shouted, "do what you can to hinder her!"

The wild bull turned to face the rolling slug, as she redirected for another speedy hit. He raised a single hoove and slammed it down, releasing a much weaker earthquake which threw Macy's fire rock type off course.

"What?!" Macy cried out.

"Bulldoze is weaker than Earthquake but it specifically targets the opponents manuverability," Ash smirked, "and you already got rid of her defence so let's finish this, Tauros! Giga Impact!"

He knew it was an all or nothing attack but he couldn't risk Magcargo setting back up her roll out.

His normal type took charge across the field, a quake following each step as Magcargo slowly looked up. She disappeared from sight as the wild bull formed a power barrier around him. Slamming headfirst into her, he caught her in his horns and gave her a toss from within the impact.

Macy's fire rock type thudded on the ground in front of her trainer. Tauros emerged from the power barrier, slowly trotting towards Ash.

"Magcargo is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of this third round Ash and his Tauros."


"Awesome Tauros, that's two for two," Ash cheered, taking out his Pokéball, "I've got a feeling I know who's next and Houndoom wanted to face her so why don't you rest up bud. If things go don't go as planned, then I might need you in the best condition possible."

The normal type nodded in agreement and disappeared in the red light. Ash smiled down at the safari ball before clipping it back to his belt. Even if not the strongest, Tauros always pulled through in tough situations. He makes a solid back bone to any team he's put on.

"After a strategic take down of Magcargo, Ketchum lets his Tauros take a well-deserved rest," the announcer explained, "but with both trainers each having one Pokémon not shown, it's a question of how this will turn out! Only one way to find out!"

"You're up, Ninetales!" Macy shouted.

In a flash of light, the golden-white furred fire type appeared sat on the field in front of Macy. A smug expression spread across her face. She seemed smaller than Brock's Ninetales, not like he has a side by side comparison. He took out his Pokedex for a quick refresher:

Ninetales, The Fox Pokémon. The final evolved form of Vulpix. Said to live for a thousand years, this Pokémon uses its supernatural abilities to manipulate fire. It can burn its prey to a crisp as it pleases. It is known to have some special psychic abilities despite it not being a psychic type.

"Hey Ash! Ninetales was really looking forward to seeing your Houndoom again," Macy called out, "how about after the battle you let them go out for a bit!"

"Why wait?" Ash smirked, taking his own Pokéball out, "I choose you!"

In a flash of light, his dark fire type appeared on the ground. Ninetales eyes lowered into what Ash could only describe as a lewd stare, and an even lower growl which was more of a purr. His Houndoom stood tall and locked eyes, clearly not showing any interest in her. His pointed tail waving back and forth.

"It looks like we have a battle of the fire types folks!" the announcer explained, "but with both capable of having the flash fire ability, I doubt we'll be seeing any actual fire attacks."

"Ninetales versus Houndoom," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Macy versus Ash: Round Four

Ash smiled as his dark Pokémon leaped from his starting position. Teeth showing in a threatening growl, he entered a quick sprint across the field.

Ninetales, appeared to wait for him to reach her. Moving at the last moment, when he pounced, she gracefully rolled to the side, the tips of her tails tickling Houndoom's snout. He tensed up and turned, pouncing towards her once more.

His fangs appeared, sparking with electricity as he bites down on the pure fire type. The two rolling around in the dirt. Ending with him straddling on top.

She winked at him as the fangs faded from electricity. Houndoom was momentarily stunned from the loss of his move.

A series of hearts formed around her face, which shot forward. The dark fire type attempted to move but to no avail. Stood close to Ash, the Dark Pokémon was shaking, and his eyes winced shut with heavy panting.

"We're in trouble, Ash, if I look at Ninetales I won't be able to attack her," he informed, "her attract was a dirty trick."

"Oh sweetie," the female fire types voice echoed from behind, "I'm all for getting dirty with you but first you need to ask nicely."

Ash wanted to be sick at the implication but shook his head and focused, "okay Houndoom, I'll be your eyes for this battle but for now just use Odor Sleuth and get your Barings straight."

The dark fire type nodded and began sniffing around the dirt whilst keeping his eyes shut. Ash gasped as he looked behind.

"Roll to your right!" Ash shouted, "and then Shadow Ball in the position you were in!"

His Houndoom did so, barely avoiding an incoming Iron Tail which smashed into the ground. He quick-fired a ghost type projectile and knocked Ninetales off balance. Rolling in the dirt, he skilfully landed on all fours once again.

"Whilst she is stunned take a run!" he instructed.

With a turn of his heal, Houndoom shot off across the field with pretty amazing speed. Turning towards their opponent, he saw Ninetales sat on the earth as she let out an eerie cry with her eyes clouded... what was she doing? Surely, she knows Houndoom is immune to psychic type moves.

"Ash!" Houndoom shouted in a panic.

Snapping his head back to his own Pokémon, he saw him trapped within a tomb of sand which was steaming to indicate heat.

"What?!" he gasped.

"It's called Scorching Sands and we came up with it in case anyone tried to counter our fire type with their own," Macy informed, a proud smirk spread on her face, "it may have elements for both the fire type and psychic type, but it's a ground move through and through."

Ash's mouth dropped open as he watched his dark fire type struggle against the restraints. He was grimacing whilst fighting to keep his eyes shut.

Running his mind through options to escape, Ash tried to think of times when he faced something similar but the only one that came to mind was Sandslash using Sand Tomb... and then he would rush in to finish off the opponent on his own terms.

"Super Ultra Tail!" a voice shouted down from his feet. Staring down at his starter, he saw Pikachu pointing towards his own tail... his eyes burst open in realisation, even if still trying to come up with a solid name for it, they already learnt the danger of mixing too many elements together in one go.

"Houndoom this is risky but use Smog straight down!" Ash shouted.

The Dark fire type took a deep breath, exhaling a purple cloud from his mouth. It struck the heated sand and became alight... a massive explosion followed.

Squinting through the smoke, he saw his dark Pokémon on the ground, looking bruised and beaten up. Dirt raining down as flames surrounded him.

As he pushed himself up, the flames seemed to jump to his body, being absorbed within. A red outline surrounded his body as his eyes burst open. Flames burst out of them as red pupils gave a massive intimidation factor.

He let out a massive roar, rows of shadows shaped like Ash's other Pokémon surrounded the field all facing the downed Ninetales.

With a second command from the enraged dark type, they pounced. One by one pumping on the pure fire type, who was still down but conscious after the explosion. Barely making her out through the shadowed assault, he saw her grimace after each blow. Some seemed more effective than others but each one looked painful.

As the last one faded, she looked battered and bruised as she attempted to stand up. Houndoom, still enflamed from the explosion mixing with his ability, took a deep breath. Firing a massive Dark Pulse straight across the field.

Striking the ground in front of the Fox Pokémon, Macy's cries were drowned out by the second explosion. The golden-white furred Pokémon went flying.

She landed hard on the ground in front of her trainer as Houndoom finally relaxed. The red outline faded, and he seemed ready to faint as he slowly trudded back across the field. The referee could be seen moving closer to inspect their opponent.

"Ninetales is unable to continue," the ref declared, "and since Ash Ketchum still has two Pokémon able to battle whilst Macy doesn't, the green trainer is victorious and shall receive three points."

Ash smiled as his Houndoom returned to his side. Kneeling down, he greeted the canine Pokémon with a warm embrace scratching him on the head while stroking his hand down his back... even if he didn't seem to appreciate emotional gestures, the fire dark type did seem to smile as the crowd erupted in cheers. Realising that he was on the verge of collapsing himself, Ash brought out his Pokéball and returned his Dark Pokémon.

"And he's done!" the announcer erupted, "overcoming Macy's fiery spirit, Ash Ketchum has taken the lead in his group by gaining three points. Of course, he still has everything to play for when he faces their third group member, as does Macy who might be able to overcome this loss!"


Ash smiled as he walked through the stadium after leaving the battlefield. He had all his Pokémon who battled safe on his belt and planned to take them straight to Nurse Joy. Then he could go and watch the match between Drake and Gary before looking up Vincent's for when he faces him.

"Ash Ketchum?" one of the stadium workers asked, who appeared as he passed through the door that lead to the trainers' wing.

"Yes?" he questioned.

"I've been sent to escort you to Mr Goodshow," he explained, "do you have your Granbull on you?"

"Yeah," he stretched out the word, uncertainty over taking his voice, "what's this about?"

"I'm afraid, I don't know," he replied, "I've just been asked to take you to him. And to ensure you have Granbull. Are you ready?"

"Y-yeah," he replied.

As he followed the man through the hallways, he saw a few people, mostly workers but none of them seemed interested in him. He looked towards his little electric buddy on his shoulder, silently asking if he knew what was going on but Pikachu simply replied with a shrug of the shoulders.

Going into a lift, they were taken to the third floor. The assistant even needed to have a key to access it, indicating that this level wasn't accessible to just anyone. They continued down the corridor once reaching the floor and the contrast was amazing. It was more of a formal business setting compared to the high-actioned stadium. You couldn't even make out the rattle from the audience leaving after the battle. He even saw signs marking out the direction for the elite four seating's. Soon they made it to a single door at the end of a corridor which wasn't labelled at all.

The assistant stood to the side and gestured for him to go forward. Taking a deep breath, Ash stepped forwards and raised his fist to the door. He felt his heart pump against his chest, causing him to hesitate before knocking on the door. After a few moments, a voice instructed him to enter. Doing so, he pushed the door open and stepped inside to see the PLA president sat behind a desk with three suited men stood around, like security.

"Good evening Ash," he greeted, in an unusual stoic tone, "I'm sure your wondering why I had you brought here after your battle?"

"Y-yeah," he replied, "is everything alright?"

"Take a seat," he gestured to the single empty chair in front of the desk. Realising it wasn't so much of a request but a command, he gulped before doing so, "Ash. I'm afraid I had to call you here because someone has made some... concerning accusations against you."

"What?!" he gasped.

"Please, calm down," he instructed, "your father is a close friend of mine, one I trust with my life and the nature of these accusations don't fit what I know of you or your family. Which is why I have decided to personally investigate it, too see if there is any merit."

"What sort of accusations?" he asked, "who was it that made them?"

"I can't reveal that information yet, but I do need to ask to see your Granbull," he replied, "these accusations revolve around her."

Ash reached to his belt and took her Pokéball off, he placed it on there on the walk over after the assistant informed him of needing her present. With a moment's hesitation, he wondered why it was her of all his Pokémon but obviously that would require to know the accusations being made. He released her out into the office, she looked around at everyone with a usual large smile on her face, wave towards Mr Goodshow, with her tongue hanging out.

"Well... she certainly seems happy, which'll go in your favour," he commented, jumping down from his seat, and moving over to her. He pulled out some sort of black scanning device and held it over the back of her head. She seemed just as confused by this as him. The device, after a couple seconds, dinged, causing the president to sigh, "and this proves, that the accusations are - at least somewhat based in truth."

"What are these accusations? I have a right to know what I've being accused off," Ash demanded, as the man returned to his seat.

"You do," he agreed, "a women have accused you of stealing her Granbull, of course, it was a Snubbull whilst under her care. She had a chip implanted in her head to confirm her identity and that's what the scan just confirmed. So, tell me Ash, did you break into a home and take Granbull as your own?"

"No! Of course not!" he yelled, jumping to his feet.

"I figured you'd say that" he replied, "but I do need you to tell me how you met and eventually caught Granbull here. It's the only way to clear your name."

"Right," he took a deep breath, taking his seat once more, "well... I met her as a Snubbull, whilst travelling between Eckruteak and Mahogany. She saw us training and asked to take part. Agreeing she battled my Phanpy but when I realised, she only knew bite, we decided to work on learning new moves."

"But according to the records held by Professor Oak, you caught her as a Granbull in Blackthorn," Mr Goodshow questioned.

"Yes, that's because after training we sat down for some food and I got to know her better," he explained, "she asked me to catch her and when I tried, it wouldn't work because she already had a Pokéball active. She explained that whilst she had a 'trainer'-"

"Hag," Granbull interjected.

"What did she say?" he asked

"S-she called her old trainer a hag," Ash admitted, looking down in fear he might've laugh at her title for this supposed trainer, "but she apparently made her life horrible from birth. Not allowed to go out or play, or train, or do anything most Pokémon would enjoy doing... she wouldn't even let her eat proper Pokémon food which had damaged her growth due to the lack of proper nutrition."

"Did you get a medical professional to assess her at this point?" he asked.

"N-no," Ash dejectedly replied, "my friend Brock is a breeder and helps us keep all our Pokémon health b-but he doesn't have any official training. "

"Understood," Mr Goodshow nodded.

"So, she explained how she ran away after her trainer tried to arrange a relationship with this other Snubbull she hadn't even met," Ash continued.

"That is a very serious allegation," Mr Goodshow stopped him, "forced breeding has been outlawed in many regions over the earth. Certainly, all that are associated with both the PLA and G-Men."

"W-well she didn't specifically say it was for breeding but she was going to force a marriage between them," Ash shrunk in his seat, "but I encouraged her to return and give her a second chance, especially now she knew some proper moves to use in battles."

"She has no record of her returning," Mr Goodshow explained, "just the night after she left, someone broke in, stole her Pokéball and destroyed it. Then a few weeks later, it appears you caught her."

"I... may not have returned and given her that chance like I said," Granbull admitted, "I knew you were leaving and I wanted you as my trainer... so I may have took the prison and destroyed it... not waiting to give her a chance to trap me again."

Ash sighed, "Granbull just admitted that she snuck in to destroy the Pokéball and didn't give her a chance like she said before."

"While I believe you, understand everything you translate for me I need to take with a grain of salt," Mr Goodshow explained.

"Of course," Ash sighed, "but then Snubbull found us again in Blackthorn and she asked me to catch her. We battled, she evolved, and I did."

"Right," Mr Goodshow nodded, "I'll need to keep in contact with you over this and so I might call on you again. Until I've had chance to investigate your side of the story further, I can't permit you to use Granbull in any official league battles. Following the conclusions, I come to discover, should I find you've been untruthful then you could be disqualified from the Silver conference or face even harsher legal consequences, but I digress."

"What should I do until then?" Ash asked.

"Just enjoy the league and don't draw attention to yourself," Mr Goodshow explained, "understand the women that has accused you is very wealthy. Should she wish, she could push for legal action against you regardless of my discoveries."

"Can't I speak to her?" Ash asked, "maybe if I do then-"

"I can't allow that, I'm afraid," Mr Goodshow dismissed, "just trust that if you've been truthal then that will pull through."

Unable to come up with anything else, and realising that for now the conversation was over, Ash stood up and made his way towards the door. One of the security guards opened it and he walked through. It shut behind him and he sighed, relaxing his stance now that he was out. Turning to his side, he saw fairy type stood, looking like she wanted to rip someone's head off... not that he needed to guess whose.

"Granbull..." he dropped to his knees.

She burst out into tears and jumped at him, wrapping her arms around him as she nuzzled her head into his chest. He paused for a moment before returning the gesture, rubbing her back in a comforting manner.

"I'm not going back to her, I don't care what that guy says," she cried, "I'll run away again. Tell him, I'll just keep running away from her! I-I'd rather die than go back to her."

"G-Granbull... you don't mean that" he stuttered, taken aback by her confession.

"I do," she looked up at him, a fire of resolve in her eyes, "life with that hag... it's not life and I couldn't take it for one more moment."

Ash didn't know what else to say, he knew that she didn't like her previous life but that confession... it puts it in a whole different light. Looking her directly in her eyes, he couldn't help but notice the pain that was held within them, "I promise you, Granbull, I'll do everything I can to make sure you don't go back."


Ash struggled down the small pathway between the rows of seats, Serena, Misty, Brock, and his mum was sat just a further bit down. He saw a free seat next to his girlfriend and smiled. Reaching the free space, he sat down and quickly found a honey-blonde head resting on his shoulder.

"What took you so long?" she asked, "was something up when you dropped off the guys with Nurse Joy?"

"No," he dismissed, seeing her eyes looking up and silently asking once again. He sighed, "I'll explain later."

She seemed to accept that answer and nodded, relaxing into his embrace as he lifted an arm over her shoulder. He felt her head resting against his chest and the soft scent of razzberry shampoo lingering in his nose. Resting his head down on her hair, he took a comforting breath before placing a small kiss on the back of her head.

Turning towards the battlefield, he saw Umbreon stood near the middle of the field, which was covered in webs with it shooting out a dark pulse around the field after his opponent, Drake's Jolteon. While it was skilfully jumping around, it wasn't moving nearly as fast as one might expect. Looking closely, he saw a purple mark across Umbreon's face, clearly, he had been poisoned so maybe Drake was just trying to buy time.

"How's the battle going?" he asked.

"It's been pretty back and forth so far, Gary started with Pupitar and Drake Ariados and both set up some hazards for the other," Brock explained, "but as soon as one side has taken the lead, the other comes back with a pretty strong counter."

Ash nodded in understanding as he figured as much, both of these guys have been pretty experienced and smart under pressure. While he doubted, he'd know what the final outcome would be, he could make a solid guess. The look on Gary's face showed that this battle was more than just a battle to move on for him, he wanted to avenge Leaf and her broken heart... he must really care for her, not that it's a surprise to anyone that knows him.

His attention snapped back to the field as he saw Jolteon get knocked out of the air by a Dark Pulse. Trapped in a web, Umbreon leaped and landed a final devastating blow with Foul Play.

"Jolteon is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of the third round Gary and his Umbreon."

Turning back towards the field, he saw his brother recall his fallen electric type and he appeared to whisper something to the device. Umbreon was still stood in the centre, trapped by webs and rocks, looking ready to faint from the poison but still standing. Gary was clearly not intending to switch him out.

"Now Ketchum is down to his last Pokémon but this has proven to be a high action match between the two trainers from Pallet," the announcer explained, "so we have to wonder who will be coming out in hopes of defeating Gary's two remaining Pokémon?"

"It's all or nothing," Drake declared, enlarging a Pokéball in his hand, "go Charizard!"

In a flash of light, his fire flying type appeared high above the field with a loud roar. Several large rocks shot out of the ground and towards him, with a skilful display of airmanuvers that Ash would've expected from his Pidgeot. Barely keeping ahead of the rocks, several pairs smashed into each other in the pursuit of him, destroying them in the process. Although one rock remained which struck him. He fell onto the field but picked himself and dusted off from the impact.

"Umbreon versus Charizard!" the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Gary versus Drake: Round Four

Drake watched Charizard took off into the air once more, swirling around as he soared over the battlefield. Umbreon was trapped by the remaining webs scattered over the field. He launched a dark pulse up, but the fire lizard easily avoided it with the entire sky able to break free.

He came to a stop in the air and took a deep breath, with a mighty roar he unleashed a large spray of flames downward. The flames engulfed everything.

They hardly lasted a few seconds, but they did the job. As his flamethrower faded, he revealed the webs now set on fire and trapping the dark type.

"Try to heal yourself to counter the flames until they burn out!" Gary called out.

Umbreon nodded and tensed up. He began to glow as he resisted against the flames.

"Don't let it!" Drake shouted, "finish it now before it can tire you out!"

Charizard roared and dived straight down, he saw his rival grimaced as the shadow passed between them. Swooping over the field, he dragged the dark type eeveelution from his position and rocketed back into the sky. The battlefield still burning hot like a wildfire.

Reaching an apex high above the field, he stopped. Holding onto the dark type, he flung him straight down in a Seismic Toss, with the momentum adding to it.

"Umbreon!" Gary cried out.

Drake's starter unleashed another ear-bursting roar, drowning out the Oak-boy's cries. With a deep breath, he launched a massive fire blast straight down which formed into some sort of symbol. Drake even had to raise his arms to protect against the heat radiating off it.

Gary's dark type eeveelution cried out in pain as it was consumed by flames before touching the ground. A massive explosion took place and Drake dived for cover as the heat wave blew overhead. As he turned towards the field, he saw it mostly cleared of the entry hazards, the webs almost completely destroyed, and bits of earth torn up from the blast raining down. Umbreon was lying near the centre on his side, burnt and unconscious.

"Umbreon is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Drake and his Charizard."


Drake watched with an unflinching scowl as his opponent returned and whispered praise to his fallen Pokémon. His started landed in front of him, on the torn-up field and let out a victorious roar, shooting a flamethrower into the sky.

"And just like that both trainers are down to their last Pokémon," the announcer declared among the cheering crowd, "it's hard to tell who'll come out on top in this back and forth battle!"

He looked across the fields and felt a smirk form on his lips as he saw Gary's frustration. If he could use that anger, then he has won this battle, regardless of what Pokémon he picked even though he could make an educated guess. Of course, he'll need to use Gary's weak spot to do that.

"You could've thought about my possibly team and come with a good counter for each of them. Instead you thought of it as a rematch for our battle at Alto Mare, your Pupitar would've been a good counter to Pinsir, had that been the case," Drake critiqued, "but it's nice to see you took my suggestion on Umbreon's stalling ability by teaching him moonlight."

"What are you trying to say!" Gary called out.

"You've made it clear that this battle is about so much more to you than just a simple league battle, it's about Leaf," Drake narrowed his eyes, "this battle is your heart and that is what decided your team. Pupitar, the little mon you raised throughout Johto. Umbreon, the friendship evolution that marked your change as a trainer. You could've chosen any of your powerhouses and walked out of here with a victory today, but it doesn't take a genius to work out you went with Scizor like our previous battle. I've always assumed that love is a dangerous disadvantage. Thank you for the final proof."

"And Drake Ketchum has called out his opponent, making a clear prediction on who'll be the last Pokémon Gary uses," the announcer explained, "remember that both trainers registered their teams beforehand so Gary isn't able to make any switches to save face. Let's see if the prediction is correct!"

"You're not as smart as you think you are," Gary spat, enlarging a Pokéball in hand, "Blastoise, let's go!"

In a flash of light, the water turtle Pokémon landed on the field with a heavy thud. His eyes narrowed in a fierce expression not to different to his trainers, he knew that they held a massive advantage in terms of type but if he can keep the mental lead than this battle has been won.

"And for his final Pokémon, Gary has gone with his Blastoise while Drake will stick with his Charizard," the announcer explained, "based on type, Gary has an overwhelming advantage but hold onto your seat folks because this battle is only just getting started!"

"Blastoise versus Charizard," the ref declared, both Pokémon crouching into a battle stance, "let the battle begin!"


Gary versus Drake: Round Five

Drake watched closely as his starter launched a swift Flamethrower across the field. His wings spread ready for a take-off.

He expected a power match to test the strength of his opponent, maybe Hydro Pump or another projectile water move. So, imagine his surprise when Blastoise withdrew into his shell, spinning across the field. The remaining flames from the previous bout still existed but were slowly being extinguished as he dodged.

Clenching his fist, he wondered what they were up to. Blastoise spun across his starters feet and jumped back out of the rapid spin.

Grabbing the fire flying type in an ursaring-hug, Blastoise bite down on his shoulder preventing a flight escape.

Charizard's fists clenched shut and sparked with electricity. He struck down on the shell, causing the water type to jerk back.

He delivered a quick flurry of thunder punches directly to his face, stunning him. Using the momentary pause, Charizard took flight.

Not moving quick enough, Blastoise reached out and grabbed the burning tail. The bite attack hindered his ability for a speedy take off. Charizard looked down and attempted to make his opponent let go by launching a flamethrower... but it ended up hitting the ground in front of him due to the weird angle.

The canons on his back locked on and launched a powerful Hydro Pump. Scrapping his starters back, where his wings connected, he fell to the ground.

Blastoise smirked as he let go, his body glowing white as red cracks appeared around it. Clearly, they planned out an attack formation to counter Charizard.

"Create some distance but don't fly!" Drake commanded, "they've damaged your wings too much, flying would just make you an easy target and tire you out!"

"Don't take it personally, Drake," Gary's snide voice replied, "we originally had this plan to counter any powerful flying types, like an Aerodactyl or Dragonite but guess we'll need to come up with something else once we've won this battle!"

Charizard roar as Blastoise reached out for him once more. His tail swiped it away and he unleashed a thick smoke cloud to engulf them both.

From among the smoke cloud, a sphere of water shot up high above them. A jet of the same element followed and struck it. It exploded into rain.

As the self-made weather dissipated the smoke, both Pokémon were once again revealed but Charizard made his way back to his feet and the other side of the field. With the small rain shower ending, his starter glew a bright red with the sun seeming to brighten in the sky.

"Both sides aren't giving an inch as each take different strategies in boosting themselves," the announcer explained, "Blastoise used shell smash to increase his speed and offensive while Charizard has taken control of the weather. How will this affect the battle moving forward?"

Blastoise took off from his spot with surprising speed. As he ran, Water Pulses formed at his mouth and he raided fired them one after another.

Charizard extended both arms as his claws glew white and were surrounded my dark blue flames filled of dragon type energy.

He charged forward as well, using his claws to intercept each water pulse before it made contact.

The two starters clashed near the middle of the field, Charizard landing two quick slashes before swooping to the side. Blastoise attempted to bite down once more but missed. As he looked up the fire flying type danced around his body, using Dragon Claw on his shell... to minimum effect.

Blastoise crossed his arms over head as he realised the pattern Charizard was following. As he passed over his back a second time, he fired a Hydro Pump.

Having them smash into the wall across the field, they pushed Blastoise back and Charizard along with him. Crashing into the opposing wall, both sides fell to the ground as the heat blazed down from the sun.

Drake clenched his fist, realising that even after a shell smash, Blastoise can take more punishment thanks to his shell. He'll need to throw them off.

"Do you really think that Leaf is watching right now, Gary?" Drake called out, "do you think she is cheering you on? That she'll run into your arms when it's all over? Your fighting a losing battle and have been since the start of Johto. I already won what you want, and you know what... I turned it down but even that won't be enough to get you what it is your fighting for!"

The crowds around them began booing at the declaration. Drake inwardly smirked, he really couldn't care less about who they're supporting. He just wants to get Gary out of the match mentally, that should be enough to throw the battle back into his favour.

"If you think I'm fighting to try and win her heart, then your very mistaken!" Gary yelled, "I'm gonna win this! Maybe not her but for her! You hurt her!"

Seeing the rage in the trainer's face, caused him to smirk. Glancing at the two Pokémon, both were pushing themselves up.

Charizard must've realised the plan and launched into action. He tackled Blastoise into the dirt and they skidded across the field. Landing with him straddling the water type.

He clenched both fists which sparked with electricity. Punching down on the water types head, his canons were in no position to launch another attack.

Seeing his opponent in a helpless position made Drake smirk, this advantage was exactly what he needed to win-

"Rapid Spin into Body Press!" Gary called out.

His eyes burst open as he heard the trainers voice echo, he should've been too emotionally vulnerable to think of an escape and with focus on his Pokémon's head, he wouldn't have been thinking straight.

Blastoise withdrew into his shell and began spinning, knocking Charizard over in the process. He shot across the field and struck a wall, bouncing off.

High over the field he slammed down onto the fire flying type in a sort of body slam. Blastoise was the first to get up as he loomed over his opponent.

"Now finish it!" Gary shouted, rage filling every word.

Blastoise dragged his opponent to his feet, who looked battered and bruised but still able to fight. He held him in a head lock from behind.

Drake's starter attempted to break out but neither his claws, head nor tail could reach to land an attack. Blastoise began to glow blue.

"Charizard!" Drake cried out.

Water poured out of Blastoise's shell and formed a sphere around the both of them. A healing light glew over the water type as he strengthened his hold.

The fire flying type was struggling to hold his breath as he attempted to break free. Making special note to keep his tail flame just out of the aqua ring.

Blastoise's eyes burst open and he quickly slammed his jaw down on his opponents' shoulder. Drake's own starter cried out in pain as his eyes widened, water filling his lungs. He soon stopped struggling and the ref raised a flag.

"Release him from the hold now!" he commanded.

He watched as the water type pushed his starter out of the hold and onto the ground out of the water sphere. He couldn't even cast a glance in Gary's direction as he felt the entire world stop. Even the audience were silent as his breath stuck in his throat. The ref moved closer to investigate, as Drake rushed to his Pokémon's side, tears stinging his eyes. He had played the villain to try and throw Gary off but never did he imagine the Oak-boy would pull off a move as lethal as that.

Skidding down to his starter, he began coughing up water. Patting him on the back, he felt a pulse and the slowly raising and fall of his body showed he was alive, but Drake knew what was about to happen. Blastoise didn't need to let him out of the restraint and thus-

"Charizard is unable to battle!" the ref declared, "making the winners of this round and earning three points in the group stage, Gary Oak and his Blastoise!"


Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...