Author's Note:

Here it is, the second part of the group stages. Sorry this chapter took longer than expected, I kind of lost one of the battle I pre-wrote for the chapter (the first battle to be precise) so I had to rewrite it. Maybe it's just me, but I always feel demotivated to re-writing a scene already done, even if I wrote it a while ago. This league just seems to be flying by, we get to learn four of the top eight finalists and some more fun battles. For Ash's battle, this one is to show two things, one) that a certain Pokémon of his is still the strongest when combining strength with experience and two) that Granbull's situation is messing with his head. It also takes on a plot point from the anime, but I twisted it a bit to better fit this series. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.


Chapter 93: Silver Conference - Group Stages

Ash was running across the silver town grounds, the bright sun beating down on him. He had just left Dragonite with Nurse Joy to see if she is able to compete or not. He doesn't want to use her against Vincent or anything, he still has to decide who he'll use against him and he has today to pick since his match with Vincent is first thing tomorrow but with the trainer numbers getting lower, he knows he's all the more likely to face a tough opponent like Harrison or Gary... or even Paul. All of which, having Dragonite would be very useful.

Passing one of the towns parks, Ash came to a stop as a burst of light shot out of his backpack. On the grassy field next to him materialised his mighty dinosaur. Aerodactyl stood tall and Ash couldn't help but look at him with a look of confusion.

"What's up Aerodactyl?" he asked.

"Would you mind if I spend the time in this park?" he asked, "when at the lab, I like to sunbath on such sunny days. It's a simple pleasure and one which allows me to reminisce over times past."

"Of course," Ash smiled, "want me to leave anyone to keep you company? I think Venusaur enjoys sunbathing too."

"There more than welcome to join me but I usually do it on my own," he replied.

"Okay," he smiled, "I'm gonna watch Jimmy's battle but I'll stop by afterwards to meet you again so don't go wondering off."

"I'm not a child," he muttered, with a role of his eyes.

"Right... sorry," Ash apologised, "force of habit."

He watched his rock flying type walk across the mostly vacant grassy field, with a fountain at the centre which had a Kingdra statue shooting the water out of the top. His dinosaur reached an apple tree and lay down underneath, his eyes closing. Happy that his Fossil Pokémon could take care of himself and would be fine, Ash took off once more across the pavement.

He soon reached one of the stadiums with the smaller fields used for the group stage battles and saw the screen above the door with the image of Jimmy in a battle against Casey. It was a regular dirt field and Jimmy was using his Sunflora against Casey's Elekid.

The grass type was launching a barrage of razor leaves across the field. As Elekid attempted to zap them all down with some electric attack.

"Looks like there battle is well underway," Ash commented, mostly to his best buddy perched on his shoulder.

"Without us?" Pikachu gasped, pulling a surprised face with his ears pointing straight up, "we should sue! It's just not on!"

Chuckling at his starters joke, he ran inside the building and made his way over to the reception. Showing his free pass to view the battles, which he received as a competing trainer, along with a few for friends and family, the guide pointed out which staircase he should take. Thanking her for the directions, he took off into the stadium. Using the signs along the wall, he soon found himself towards the seating area where his friends should be.

It didn't take long for him to find some of his friends, namely, Marina, Serena, Misty Brock, and Harrison. As he approached them, he realised there wasn't actually a seat available. His girlfriend must've realised this too, as she stood up and offered him her seat. Knowing what she was hinting at, he took her seat and almost instantly she took a seat in his lap. She wrapped her arms around him and nuzzled her head into the crook of his next

He cast a quick glance towards the field, where Elekid had both fists covered in electricity. He was trying to punch Sunflora, but she was almost dancing around with the pure electric type.

"Ah, the old hit and run tactic," Harrison smiled, "not the most complex strategy but when it works, it works."

"What's the hit and run tactic?" Marina asked.

"Jimmy's using it right now with Sunflora," Brock explains, "its holding back when the opponent moves into attack, then moves in to attack when the opponent tires out. Elekid has superior energy reserves so Jimmy is having Sunflora stay close and use its lanky and flexibility to keep avoiding the attacks whilst reserving most of her energy. Elekid keeps attacks, which is also wearing it down."

"It's not attacking so knock it back with discharge!" Casey's voice echoed over the sound system.

"Ingrain!" Jimmy's voice followed before a loud bang followed. The view off the field disappeared in a ball of electricity which Ash had to cover his eyes from.

When it faded, Sunflora was stood tall in the same position, looking almost exactly the same. While Elekid was down on one knee, breathing heavily.

The grass type spun her arms in front of her body and sent out a barrage of razor-sharp leaves, spinning like discs. They struck the electric type and sent him flying, causing him to land flat on his stomach in front of Casey.

"Elekid is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of the first round Jimmy and his Sunflora."

"Alright! Go Jimmy!" Marina shouted, jumping out of her seat.

"Wow, he's really improved since the last time I saw him battle," Misty commented, "it's hard to believe he's still the same kid we met back when we first entered Johto. He even seems more comfortable in front of a crowd.

"I think that's from the battle," Ash commented, "when down there it's easier to just focus on the battle and imagine the crowd isn't even there. Now if he makes it to the top eight, he'll have to deal with the interviews beforehand which'll really test his confidence."

"He'll be fine," Marina dismissed, as their attention turned back towards the field.

Casey had since returned her fallen Elekid and brought out her Beedrill. From what he remembered of her in their brief encounter, Elekid was her newest team member so he wasn't surprised it was defeated. He also remembered her claiming Beedrill was one of her first caught Pokémon and also one of her toughest. He knew how strong they could be thanks to Serena's so it would be interesting how he handled it.

"Rest up for now, Sunflora, you might be needed later on," his voice appeared softly over the sound system, he switched Pokéballs and tossed the new one up into the air, "go Beedrill!"

"And it seems we've got a battle of the Beedrill, folks, with both sides sizing each other up!" the announcer explained, "question is, which side will come out on top? It's hard to tell so the only way to find out will be to stay tuned!"

The two bugs were squaring off, dodging to the sides as they were clearly impatient in waiting. A series of buzzes could be heard over the microphones that are meant to send both trainers voice across the stadium so they could listen in.

"Beedrill verses Beedrill," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Jimmy verses Casey: Round Two

Ash's eyes stuck on the field as both bugs shot off in a circular motion around the field. They swirled around each other as they flew around the field. He quickly lost track of which belonged to which trainer as one had their singers glow bright purple.

The second poison bee Pokémon had his stingers glow a dark-ish green instead. Each of them attempted to jab the other as they soared around.

A Poison Jab made a direct hit, knocking the other one away. It readjusted its flight pattern, barely avoiding the ground and swooped back into the sky.

Stopping in his spot, the first Beedrill pointed his two poison-filled stingers forward. He launched a rapid assault of poison stingers into the air.

High above the field, the second Beedrill spun around and entered a steep dive. His wings opened up and left a small trail in the air as he fell.

Swooping underneath the poison sting assault, his wings spread out in an aerial ace. Spinning back around he slammed straight into the opponent.

The one which took the blow, quickly wrapped his stingers around his opponent. Leaning back, they both turned upside down and slammed into the ground.

Using his stinger to bash his opponent's head, the one who took the blow landed several close punches!

"It's the bottom of the ninth and the Electabuzz's need a home run to bring it back!" Casey cried out, "use Electroweb!"

Flying backwards into the air, the second Beedrill spat out a web from his mouth. It expanded out and grabbed his opponent. Taking off into the sky, he held onto the thread, dragging his trapped prey along.

Jimmy's first caught Pokémon shot out a pin missile barrage from his mouth, cutting the thread. He began falling as he attempted to break free.

Casey's bug poison type turned around and dived back down. His wings spread out and he entered another aerial ace. Slicing down his prey's side, he struck his opponent, cutting part of the webbing as he did. Swooping across the ground, he made a U-turn and went straight back with another flying attack.

While the trapped Beedrill had one wing freed by the first slash. His wing started beating and kept him up. He stalled in the air in the process.

Casey's poison bee Pokémon slashed him once more as he shot past. This slash cut the webbing once more and freed his other wing.

Now freed from the Electroweb, he attempted to chase his opponent. However, he was no-where near as fast as the one before. Ash realised that Jimmy might've already lost this battle. Before they seemed pretty evenly matched but now

"He might be best swapping him out," he spoke up, casting a glance at his companions, "Casey did a good job at turning the tides with that Electroweb."

"He wouldn't do that," Marina replied, "his Beedrill knows Pursuit and so Casey's could too. Switching against him would be too risky, it's how he defeated Morty back in Eckruteak."

Nodding in understanding, he turned his attention back to the battle. Casey's Beedrill was diving down with a third aerial ace set to hit.

"Endeavor!" Jimmy's voice echoed across the sound system.

Jimmy's bug stopped and raised a stinger, just in time to get tackled back towards the ground. He slammed his stinger down onto his back and he cried out in pain. Both of them went spinning down towards the ground.

Casey's, which he was able to identify by the lack of webs, pushed away and from his opponent as they tumbled downward.

Pointing bo stingers above his head, he shot into the ground. Jimmy's smashed into the earth following that.

"Your down to strikes and need a home run to bring this home, Beedrill!" Casey called out, "so let's bat 'em out with Fell stinger!

The second Beedrill shot straight back up from the ground, underneath his opponent landing a powerful Drill Run! As he shot back into the air, the grounded bug poison type attempted to launch a venoshock after him.

It spun around the toxic liquid and charged straight down. His bottom stinger glew a bright green as it slammed down onto him.

Casey's poison bee Pokémon shot back into the air, seeming reenergised as lights surround his body. The ref moved closer to the downed Beedrill while the other one returned to his trainers' side, speedily flying around her head whilst letting out an aggressive buzzing noise which consumed the sound system.

"Jimmy's Beedrill is unable to continue," the ref declared, barely audible over the noise, "making the winners of this round Casey and her Beedrill!"


"And Casey has evened the numbers by taking down Jimmy's Beedrill with her own!" the announcer declared, "but by ending it with Fell stinger, he is in a much stronger position than otherwise so the question is, how will young Jimmy overcome this challenge!"

Ash watched his friend as he silently recalled his first caught Pokémon and gave it a long stare with a down casted expression. He knew how bad he must've been feeling especially since at the start them seemed pretty evenly matched. The New Bark native attached his device back to his belt and stared across the field. Beedrill was floating just in front of Casey, who wore her own confident smirk, while he looked like he was filled with pure rage.

"It seems that Casey and her Beedrill are trying intimidation tactics to psych her opponent out!" the announcer continued, "but as the brother of our champion, surely it'll take more than that to scare him off!"

"Guess it's now or never," Jimmy's voice came over the sound system, although barely, "go Typhlosion!"

He watched as his friend's starter Pokémon appeared on the field. As it stood on its back legs, it barely was taller than Jimmy himself at full height. The flame around his neck was large and powerful as it let out a massive battle cry. Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan him:

Typhlosion, the Volcano Pokémon. The final evolved form of Cyndaquil. Typhlosion obscures itself behind a shimmering heat haze that it creates using its intensely hot flames. This Pokémon creates blazing explosive blasts that burn everything to cinders.

"Just like his brother, Jimmy has gone with his starter, a mighty Typhlosion!" the announcer cheered among the screeching crowd, "but will it be enough to stop Beedrill, especially after it got a power boost from using Fell Stinger?!"

"It will be interesting to see how Typhlosion battles," Serena commented, "for when Quilava evolves. Maybe watching him could give me some performance ideas too."

Smiling down at his girlfriend, he placed a small kiss on the back of her head whilst rubbing his hand up and down her arm. Feeling her nuzzle further into the embrace. Even with how bad he feels about the whole Granbull situation, knowing she is here for him made that worry subside, if only for a short time.

The two Pokémon squared off, Beedrill quickly shooting from side to side just like before, clearly eager to get going. While Typhlosion crouched down low, the flame around his neck standing high up and seeming to grow, as if challenging the bug.

"Typhlosion verses Beedrill," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Jimmy verses Casey: Round Three

Ash couldn't help but have his eye widen at the speed of Typhlosion's movements. As soon as the match started, he took a deep breath and launched a single fire ball across the field.

Beedrill zoomed ahead, ducking underneath the flame burst which exploded behind him. Shooting forward he delived a solid hit with his arm stingers.

Typhlosion had a clear mark on his cheek, quite impressive for a twineedle but that's the power of Fell Stinger at work. As the bug flew away, he launched a widespread flame thrower across the field. It stuck the bug but wasn't enough to knock him down completely as he took off.

"Give us cover, Typhlosion!" Jimmy shouted, "smokescreen!"

With the flames quickly disappearing, the pure fire type released a thick black smoke cloud which consumed the field. Beedrill was still visible from high above, flying around in a circle, as if looking for an opening.

"That was a smart move for Jimmy to use," Brock commented, "he knows Beedrill works best up close, so he made that next to impossible."

"But Beedrill can learn Defog to clear it away," Serena spoke up, "I remember seeing it when looking up moves he could learn, I thought it would be cool for some performances but... he made it clear he wasn't interesting in shows and will stick with battles."

"Yeah but I don't think Casey would've taught her's the move," Brock added.

"He's right," Ash added, "she has always been pretty head strong and all about offense."

"If he won't come out then go in for him!" Casey's voice echoed over the pa system.

Turning back towards the field, he saw Beedrill disappear into the smoke cloud, the white stingers turning purple.

Strings of poison stings shot out from numerous directions. A red flash happened within the cloud. A stream of flames and lava erupted upwards and out of the smoke cloud. The hint of flames could be seen within as a loud bang could be heard. Heat radiating outward and increasing the temperature of the whole stadium.

The smoke slowly faded, revealing the shilluette of Jimmy's starter Pokémon stood on his hind-legs. As it faded away, he came back into sight and he let out a victorious battle cry as Beedrill laid at his feet, covered in burn marks and unconscious. Although looking closely, especially when the big screen took a close up of the Volcano Pokémon, Ash could make out a purple mark over his nose.

"Beedrill is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Jimmy and his Typhlosion!"


Ash smiled as he watched as the fire type ran back across the field, Casey was recalling her fallen bug poison type as he did. Reaching his trainer, the two of them high fived with gleeful expressions on their faces.

"And Jimmy makes a comeback by taking the lead two to one!" the announcer explained, "but the question now is, will Casey's last Pokémon be enough to defeat both Sunflora and Typhlosion? While outnumbered, both of Jimmy's Pokémon have already battled so she certainly has a chance but first we need to see who her last Pokémon is! Remember both trainers pre-registered their teams so no last-minute changes for the young baseball fan!"

"Wouldn't change it anyway," Casey declared, as she held her final Pokéball like some sort of pitcher, "step up to bat, Meganium!"

In a flash of light, her pure grass type appeared on the field with a heavy thud. A fierce expression on her face showed that she wasn't deterred in the slightest despite being at a major type disadvantage. Ash leaned forward in his seat, careful not to disturb his girlfriend. Assuming Jimmy wins, this will be a good chance to check out how he handles a Meganium since his has called dibs on any battle against this Typhlosion after their previous duel.

"Who do you think is gonna win?" Serena asked.

"Not sure, I think it could go either way," Ash admitted, "Casey is pretty much all about the offensive but... as Sandslash has proven before, that can be more than enough to throw opponents off. Especially since Typhlosion is poisoned so he is on a time limit pretty much."

"So, either way, this battle is coming to an end soon?" Serena agreed, "what are your plans afterwards?"

"Harrison has his final battle this afternoon," Ash reminded, "but I also need to register my team for my battle with Vincent. Not to mention, I need to decide who I'm gonna use against him. I haven't even got a place to start with. What about you?"

"I'm going back to check on Leaf," she replied, "I took her breakfast this morning, but I doubt she's left her room yet. She is taking this whole sort-of-break-up a lot harder than I would've thought... and I didn't think she'd take it well to begin with."

"Want me to come with ya?" he asked.

"Thanks, but no thanks," she replied, shifting in her seat to face him properly. Placing both hands on either side of his face, she pulled him into a kiss. It was swift but pleasant, "I appreciate the offer but ya know, you share an uncanny resemblance to Drake. I don't want to upset her further."

"Guess I'll need to settle for sharing you for the time being," he leaned in and kissed her forehead.

"I will still be ," she replied, snuggling, and getting back into her comfy position to watch the battle, "and you don't need to share me with any other guy, well... human guys, at least. Beedrill and the others wouldn't be happy if they were included in that too."

"I guess not," Ash replied, tightening his embrace around her. Turning his attention back to the field, it appeared that the battle was about to begin.

"Typhlosion verses Meganium!" the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Jimmy verses Casey: Round Four

He smiled as he watched the fire type crouch down low once more and launch a flamethrower across the field. It quickly engulfed the pure grass type.

A storm of pink petals erupted upwards. The flames became intertwined with them as Meganium cried out. It wasn't a cry of pain, no, more of one filled with anger, aggression, and determination.

Charging forward, the flaming vortex of petals followed her as she took the flamethrower head on. Typhlosion stopped his flamethrower and charged forward.

Jumping up, he curled into a ball as his body burst into flames. Building up momentum, he slammed into the herb Pokémon.

Bouncing off, he swerved around the field, continuing to build up momentum. Meganium came to a stop middle of the field and swung her head around. She sent her petal dance storm across the field. It intercepted the flame wheel and sent him flying into a far wall.

Typhlosion crashed and landed on his stomach, growling weakly, he pushed himself up.

"Give yourself cover and get in close!" Jimmy shouted.

Crying out, Typhlosion let out a thick cloud of black smoke which quickly covered the field.

Meganium, however, didn't react immediately. As the smoke reached her, the petals around her neck glew and absorbed the smoke from the field, the sun above increasing in strength as she drained the smoke from the field, revealing Jimmy's fire starter running across the field.

"Why would she set up Sunny Day?" Marina asked, "it seems like it's giving Typhlosion a boost for no reason."

"I've got a good guess as to why," Ash admitted, "I think she wants to finish this quickly. Sunny day maybe a double edge sword but the poison that Beedrill inflicted has been slowly wearing Typhlosion down. She has a pretty reason to think the risk should work."

Typhlosion took a deep breath, stopping mid charge. Launching a flamethrower across the field, it seemed a lot larger than the one before.

Meganium launched her own beam, a white one built of pure solar energy. It struck the flamethrower and ripped straight through.

It struck Typhlosion head on and sent him flying backwards. He slammed into the side of the field and crumbled down onto the ground. The ref moved closer as if to examine the fire starter.

Meganium, however, didn't stop her solar beam. Her head began spinning around and sending her attack in all directions.

Luckily, the psychic types employed to protect the audience did their job. Bouncing it off into the sky before it hurt anyone imparticular.

"And it seems that Meganium is suffering confusion after her Petal Dance early on in the fight!" the announcer explained, "but we're waiting on the referee's call to see if Typhlosion can continue or if this battle is already won?"

Turning back to the corner of the field, the referee was slowly stepping back but covering Typhlosion's face... slowly, his body moved.

"Typhlosion is back up and able to continue to battle!" the ref declared, moving back to his stand as the fire starter walked back onto the field, "resume!"

Casey's grass starter was wobbling on her legs, moving back and forth. Letting out a battle cry, the fire type charged forward albeit slower than before.

"Finish it Meganium!" Casey shouted, "Body Slam!"

The grass type shot several vines out of her neck-flower and used them to push against the ground. Soaring high in the air, Typhlosion came to a stop.

A tornado of flames erupted upwards out of his back. Meganium tensed up as she came down on her opponent, hard!

She cried out in pain being struck by the eruption first. Landing down on him, the volcano Pokémon cried out in pain.

Casey's herb Pokémon burst out into flames which covered both Pokémon from sight. As the flames died down, Meganium fell to her side, covered in soot, and burn marks. Typhlosion was lying next to her with swirls also in his eyes. The ref moved closer to check both competitors.

"Both Pokémon are unable to continue," the ref declared, "since Jimmy still has his Sunflora able to battle, he is declared the winner. Having earnt four points in his group battles, he is the trainer from this division moving onto the top eight!"


Aerodactyl let out a loud yawn, he was flat on his stomach with his head shaded by the tree he was resting under, his body, however, was out in the sun and a warm fuzzy feeling helped him relaxed. He was in that nice part after a nap where he's awake but doesn't want to move. His eyes lazily half opened so he could take in his surroundings.

He saw a few humans wondering around, each enthralled in their own discussions and groups. He really didn't mind them, as long as they didn't mind him. A faint smell of grease-fried food hit his nostrils. That is one thing he can't stand about this time, while the Pokémon food is alright, that unhealthy heart attack fuel is just revolting. Back in the day he had to hunt for his food, it was kill or be killed. While the accessibility has made it so that's not a requirement now, he does miss the thrill of the hunt from time to time. He can somewhat get it back through battles but it's not the same.

As he reminisced about times past, he relaxed and let his eye wonder over the stadium grounds. Two Pokémon came into his view, they appeared to be discussing something between themselves although were walking in his direction... not moving, he decided to only interact if they started said interaction. He recognised one of the species as a Meganium, although it wasn't his teammate. Along with not recoining the companion, this one held themself different.

Getting closer, he kept an eye on them and saw the small blue companion Pokémon to the Meganium point in his general direction. Glancing his eye upwards, he saw a vary of apples dangling above him. Realising they are probably just hungry; he closed his eyes once more.

The slight ruckus he heard confirmed his suspicions as the grass type presumably used vine whip to retrieve one of the fruits. Assuming they would go on with their own business, his mind went back to his original time. The feeling of flying over the wilderness, watching large beasts of the land fight over territory or for food. The mild warm orange sun keeping his back warm as he looked out for-

Something hit his head.

His eyes burst open to see an apple rolling on the ground next to him. Looking straight ahead, he saw the small blue Pokémon heckling with laughter, as the grass type attempted to contain its own by using a vine to cover their mouth. Not taking long to figure out what happened, he stood up and approached them.

"Excuse me," he growled, "I believe you-"

"What do you want grampa?" the blue one asked, in a sarcastic tone.

"You just hit me with an apple," he frowned, realising it was not an accident. If it had been and they apologised, that would be the end of it.

"Did we wake the old man from his little nap?" the presumably water type asked, in a mocking tone, "maybe you should rest in the retirement home then and not in our way."

"What is your problem with me?" he asked, "back in my day we showed our elder respect."

"Back in your day?" the Meganium asked, "what? The dark ages? We've moved on since then, we don't need to hunt to survive and we have about a million different ways to improve on your barbarian tactics. If you want it to be like the old days, then go to a museum."

"If you two don't stop this then-" he was cut off by a water gun in the face. Raising his arm, his wing blocked the blast as a series of laughter.

Angered by the two children's clear disrespect, he narrowed his eyes and let out a low threatening growl. Lowering his arm, he saw the two delinquents kneeling over in laughter. Straightening his posture, he knew he handled tougher opponents than these two even combined before. Taking a deep breath, he let out a loud echoing roar. As his eye glanced around, everyone in the park had seemed to stop and was now looking at them.

The two Pokémon had calmed down their laughter and were now watching him with fierce battle expressions... had he been a lesser mon, they might've actually intimidated him since it's a two verses one but that didn't matter. Clenching his talons into the grassy dirt, he prepared for their first move.

"Aerodactyl! What's going on?!" his trainers voice echoed in his ear. A glance to the side showed Ash running over to him with a few friends of his.

"Meganium! Azumarill!" another voice called out, "knock it off!"

A boy in a light turquoise-blue polo-shirt, brown cargo-trousers and... a cape? Appeared between the two delinquent Pokémon, using common sense, he was able to determine him as their trainer. His own trainer appeared by his side moments later.

"What do you think you're doing to my Meganium and Azumarill?!" the boy cried out.

"What was I doing?" Aerodactyl repeated, "they were the ones who attacked me with an apple?"

"Are you alright, Aerodactyl?" Ash asked.

"I'm fine," he dismissed, "it'll take a lot more than fruit and children to hurt me."

"Oh, it's you," the boy replied, seeming to stare at Ash, "I get it now. It wasn't enough for Jimmy to steal the love of my life, but he gets his big bad experienced trainer to attack my Pokémon before our match! And you're so insecure that I'll win that you wanted to take out my team beforehand!"

"What are you talking about Vincent?!" Ash asked, "according to Aerodactyl, it was your Pokémon who started this whole mess!"

"My sweeties wouldn't do such a thing and the fact you'd accuse them proves your guilt!" Vincent cried out, "but it doesn't matter, we'll settle this on the battlefield and then I'll get my chance to beat Jimmy and win Marina back!"

The two Pokémon disappeared in a red light, as the young trainer marched away. He barely got to the edge of the grassy field before his foot got caught in his own cape... he fell flat on his face. Quickly scuttering away, Aerodactyl turned towards his own trainer.

"Did I get caught up in some sort of... soap opera?" Aerodactyl asked.

"I'm not going to say no," Ash replied, "but as long as you're alright. He's actually the one we're facing next, tomorrow even so next step is brainstorming a team to take in."

"I want in," Aerodactyl stepped forward, looking down on his trainer, "I want to be the one to face those... delinquents."

"Aerodactyl, what are you saying?" Ash asked.

"Those... delinquents, they don't know the meaning of respect," he replied, "I want to be the one to show them the true meaning of the word strength."

"I don't know, Aerodactyl," Ash muttered, "I mean-"

"You once claimed you'd never deny one of your team a chance to battle when they wish too," Aerodactyl replied, "I've never asked you for anything and... I never thought I would. But when they called out my time, my own strength. They insulted my history, and it... it made me feel like I had let my family down, the one I left back there... I need to battle for them."

"You never talk about your time before being revived," Ash muttered.

"I shouldn't need too," he replied, "so... can I take this battle?"

His trainer turned his back and took a few steps away. Relaxing his composure, his eye watched his trainer deep in thought. Hardening his stare, he decided to wait. Begging or bargaining isn't who he is, he made his case why and now he would just wait for the decision. After a few moments' past, he turned back to see him. The corner of his lips flicked up in a smirk, "how could I say no after all that?"


"Alright folks, here is the final battle from the D block of trainers! On the left, its Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town who won three points already when he battle Macy Moe in the first battle of this group," the announcer's voice echoed throughout the stadium, "and his opponent tied with her during their battle, on the right its Vincent Jackson from New Bark town! Both sides have everything left to play for so let's give them a silver conference welcome!"

The next morning, Ash stepped out into the sun-covered field. The roar of the crowd echoing around him. He saw Pikachu on the floor by his feet, as he stepped into the trainers' box. Locking eyes forward, he saw Vincent walking out onto the field. He was waving to the crowd as he spun around, clearly taking in everyone. His cape still flowing freely around him. He eventually made it to his trainers' box, his happy expression morphing into a determined glare.

"Sorry to say this Ash but you're the trainer Jimmy respects the most!" he called out, "if I'm gonna prove to him how big of a mistake he made by stabbing me in the back, then I'm gonna have to beat you!"

"Your welcome to try!" Ash offered, which resulted in a series of 'ooooh's' from the audience.

"This is Vincent's first regional tournament and has proven to be a fan favourite with the crowd! Always being sure to put a show on for those spectating he has a natural spot on any stage!" the announcer explained, "while his opponent, Ash, has made a name for himself long before a competition, earning himself a top four placement in last year's Indigo league and winning the subsequent Orange League! I'm gonna pass you over to the ref for 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 green segment, "it's been decided that Ash shall reveal his 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."

"I choose you, Aerodactyl!" Ash shouted, as he tossed his Pokéball into the air. It burst open and his mighty dinosaur landed on the field, his eyes closed, and each breath could be seen as his body raised. His eyes burst open and locked onto the tall boy in front of them.

"I knew you'd pick that old timer, Ash, but now-" Vincent's voice was cut off by the announcer.

"And it seems Ash isn't messing around, bring in his same Aerodactyl who won him the Orange League by defeating the champions Dragonite in a one on one," the announcer explained, "one things for sure folks, we're all in for a wild ride with this one."

"D-D-Dragonite," he stuttered, his eyes bulging and knees shaking. He almost seemed to drop the Pokéball in his hand, "w-well, erm, i-it doesn't matter, I'll have the type advantage anyway. Go Magneton!"

In a flash of light, the steel electric type appeared on the field, floating in between Vincent and Aerodactyl. Unlike Serena's, however, the coat seemed a duller shade of grey and the magnets seemed to lose the red and blue marks for a similar colour to the rest of the magnet. Ash pulled out his Pokedex:

Magneton, The Magnet Pokémon. The evolved form of Magnamite. Magneton emits a powerful magnetic force that is fatal to mechanical devices. As a result, large cities sound sirens to warn citizens of large-scale outbreaks of this Pokémon

"And Vincent has gone with his shiny Magneton, clearly hoping type advantage will be enough to overcome this challenge," the announcer explained, "but we've seen trainers overcome type match ups multiple times so it's anyone's match!"

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


Ash verses Vincent: Round One

He smirked as his watched the magnet Pokémon spark with electricity. He shot a bolt of electricity directly at his dinosaur.

Aerodactyl barely flinched, raising his tail as it was coated in metal. He slammed it into the ground, causing a pile of sand to fly up and intercept the bolt.

With a mighty roar, the rock flying type charged forward through the sand. His talons flew forward and gripped onto the electric steel type. With a few flaps, he was soon rocketing up into the sky and Magneton was helpless as it was dragged along.

"Discharge!" Vincent shouted.

The magnet Pokémon must've heard his voice as sparks could be seen. Soon a ball of electricity surrounded him. However, Aerodactyl must've heard it too as he let go, leaving the electric ball in the air, harmless and away from him.

He noticed that the electric steel type was slowly falling, even if not as quickly as a metal ball should. He briefly remembered watching Serena's when training and learning that it uses electromagnetic waves to keep itself airborne. Those rays mean it still needs to be somewhat close to the ground and is why it's not immune to ground types like other levitating Pokémon.

Looking past their opponent, Ash watched his dinosaur loop around. Looking closely, he saw the flicker of flames within his jaws.

Diving down, he bites down on the electric steel type. With a flick of his head, he sent their opponent hurdling across the field and the ground became ever closer. He glanced closer at his opposing trainer to see a worried expression spread across his face.

Aerodactyl momentarily paused, with another wing flap, he dived for their opponent. He landed a powerful wing attack and slammed him down into the field.

"Magneton!" Vincent cried out.

The ground began shaking violently and Ash quickly dropped onto his behind. As the earthquake began to subside, Aerodactyl stood once more and began walking back towards Ash. Once reaching his original starting position.

Magneton was slowly raised up, looking battered and bruised. Its top eye was half closed as it weakly floated around.

"Impressive, I underestimate you," Aerodactyl praised their opponent, "I thought that earthquake would've finished you off"

"We need to do something quick!" Vincent declared, "try Gyro Ball and get in close!"

The electric steel type began spinning, a grey outline forming around its body. Slowly, it turned on its side and began floating across the field.

Aerodactyl let out a low, threatening, growl. Rocks shot out of the field and began orbiting him. With another roar, they shot towards their opponent, one by one slamming into it. After the final one hit, Magneton exited its Gyro Ball looking dazed and confused.

Kicking off from his position, the rock flying type coated his head in metal. Slamming straight into it, Vincent's shiny Pokémon went flying.

It flew straight past its trainer and slammed into the wall behind. It slowly slides down, leaving a hole in the side where it landed.

"Magneton is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Aerodactyl."


Ash smiled as he watched his rock flying type walk back to his side. While he was apprehensive at first, he is glad that he hardly needs to help as well, since his mind is still conflicted over the Granbull situation. Hopefully, that will get sorted out sooner rather than later.

"Good job, Aerodactyl," Ash praised, "I'm guessing you want to go for round two?"

"Of course," he smirked, "I still need to show those children what this 'old timer' is capable off."

Smiling at him, Ash nodded his head. The fossil Pokémon returned the gesture and straightened his expression back into a hardened glare. He turned around and stood in his original starting position, clearly trying to intimidate Vincent in the process.

"And Ash's Aerodactyl proves it hasn't slowed down any since the orange league," the announcer declared, "but just how will Vincent overcome this?"

"With power!" Vincent declared, tossing his next Pokéball into the air, "go Azumarill!"

The water fairy type appeared on the floor with a confident smirk on her face. She narrowed her eyes and made an offensive gesture with her hands. This caused Aerodactyl to return with his own threatening growl. Ash pulled out his Pokedex:

Azumarill, The Aqua Rabbit Pokémon. The final evolved form of Azuril. Azumarill's long ears are indispensable sensors. By focusing its hearing, this Pokémon can identify what kinds of prey are around, even in rough and fast-running rivers.

"And Vincent has decided to go with another type advantage but this time with a water type," the announcer explained, the crowd cheering around them, "and she looks like a tough one, not scared in the slightest! But will it be enough to overcome Ketchum's beast of dinosaur? He doesn't even seem tired after his bout with Magneton! One things for sure, we're in for a treat of a battle!"

Both Pokémon crouched low. Each one locked with a silent stare, daring each other to blink first. Neither did.

"Aerodactyl verses Azumarill!" the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Vincent: Round Two

Ash fixed his eyes on the battle. Azumarill was quick off the mark, shooting out a jet of water from her mouth. It was hard to know exactly which move it was, as it seemed too strong for a simple water gun but not quite the strength of a Hydro Pump.

Aerodactyl raised his arm up, using his attached wing to take the blow. It sprayed off as and steam raised up.

"She's trying to burn you with Scald!" Ash shouted.

A small nod from Aerodactyl indicated he heard. With a mighty roar, he lowered his arm and jumped off the ground in one swift take off.

As he rocketed high into the air, Azumarill ended her Scald. Coating her body in water, she shot up after him, much quicker than the dinosaur.

Vincent's water fairy type shot across and whacked Aerodactyl in the chest, causing him to stop ascending. Catching his weight with his wings, he attempted to turn towards his opponent only to receive another shot in the side from her Aqua Jet.

"And Azumarill seems to have taken the advantage by out speeding Aerodactyl," the announcer explained, "but we've seen this particular Pokémon take massive hits before so let's see if that's enough for her to win."

Aerodactyl must've figured out he couldn't out speed her like this. Instead of turning, he closed his eyes and rocks shot up out of the ground.

With the large shields now orbiting him, the water jet went in for a third hit. Azumarill smashed into one of his shields and jumped on top of it.

Her fist was clenched tight, with ice covering it. Leaping from her platform, she landed a solid uppercut with her Ice Punch.

The rock flying type, despite taking the super effective hit head on, seemed unfazed. His head shone under the sun and with a mighty turn, he sent her flying.

Azumarill turned mid-air, launching another scald towards the ground. She softened her fall but still landed quite hard.

"We need to be sure to take it down, Azumarill!" Vincent cried out, "use Perish Song!"

Ash's eyes widened in fear, his fossil Pokémon wouldn't have heard the opposing trainer from that height, "Aerodactyl don't come down and don't listen to Azumarill!"

Said Aqua Rabbit Pokémon, pushed herself up from the dirt. With a sinister smirk on her face, she began letting out some vile singing.

Ash covered his eyes as he grinded his teeth. While not massively use to the move, he doesn't remember it sounding that bad before.

Aerodactyl stalled over the field and took a deep breath. Letting out his own high-pitched screech, Ash dropped to his knees and covered his ears. As he attempted to shield from the sound battle, he looked around to see everyone else in a similar state.

His rock flying type entered a steep dive, and while a power barrier seemed to form around him, it wasn't nearly big enough for a Giga Impact.

A sonic boom exploded as he closed in on the ground. A deafening silence followed as he made a sharp turn to fly parral to the ground.

He grabbed Azumarill straight off the ground. Briefly lifting her up, he slammed her into the ground, grinding her face as they covered the field.

"WHAT!" Vincent cried out, "why didn't Perish Song affect him at all?!"

"Aerodactyl used a combination of different sound waves through Super Sonic first to hold off his opponents Perish Song," the announcer explained, as if on cue, "and with the rushing wind and sonic boom, it's no wonder he didn't hear it!"

Vincent's eyes seemed to shrink at that information, "alright Azumarill try-" he was cut off by stepping on his own cape... he landed on his behind.

Aerodactyl picked her up again and used his wings as a parashut, stopping midway across the field. He held her up to his face.

Despite being battered, bruised and on the verge of fainting, she launched a close-range bubble beam straight into his face.

Clearly angered by her last attempt to hurt him, Aerodactyl tossed her across the field. Skidding across the ground, she stopped on her stomach just in front of her trainer. She attempted to push herself up, but the fossil Pokémon let out a victorious roar in her face. Her arms wobbled and eyes shrunk, turning to swirls as she collapsed onto the torn-up battlefield.

"Azumarill is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Aerodactyl."


Ash watched his dinosaur walk back across the field with a proud look in his eyes. Glancing behind, he saw Vincent recalled his fallen aqua rabbit, whilst still on the ground. Despite the crowd cheering for them, he couldn't help but get hit by a wave of guilt. He never got to know Vincent and from what he's seen, he isn't exactly what he'd call a good friend based on how he's treated Jimmy but... he also didn't want to just dominate anyone in battle.

"Hey Aerodactyl," Ash greeted his fossil Pokémon, "how about a break and let Croconaw or Venusaur take over?"

The rock flying type locked eyes with him and gave a small shake of his head, whilst his eyes narrowed, "no Ash. I know he's brought that starter of his, and just like Azumarill, I need to show him what this 'old timer' is capable off."

"But... you know your strong enough to beat him," Ash sighed, "you don't need to prove anything."

"This isn't about proving my strength," he replied, "it's about respect."

Sighing, Ash deflated in his stance as his fossil Pokémon turned around and waiting in his original starting position. He wanted to continuing arguing, but he realised it was pretty pointless. He has already come this far and at least it means he doesn't need worry as his mind is occupied with the Granbull situation.

"It seems Ketchum has decided to let his dinosaur go for a clean sweep against his opponent!" the announcer spoke, "but who has Vincent saved for last and will they be enough to make a comeback?"

"Guess I'm down to just you," Vincent told the Pokéball in his hand, "but we've overcome tougher during our journey. Go Meganium!"

In a flash of light, his starter Pokémon appeared and landed heavily on the ground. Maybe it's just the species but the pure grass type seemed battle ready and aggressive. Despite having his own, he wanted a quick refresher with his Pokedex:

Meganium, The Herb Pokémon. The final evolved form of Chikorita. The fragrance of Meganium's flower soothes and calms emotions. In battle, this Pokémon gives off more of its becalming scent to blunt the foe's fighting spirit. This Pokémon is even known for having great healing abilities for both plants, people, and Pokémon. Despite being mellow and friendly, this Pokémon can be incredibly dangerous if you damage plants when their around.

"And Vincent's last Pokémon is his grass type, Meganium!" the announcer explained, "not a great match up for him but he is literally out of options now. But we have seen type advantages fail and Aerodactyl has already battle twice so will this be enough for him to overcome the odds?!"

"Aerodactyl verses Meganium," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Vincent: Round Three

Ash could only watch as his rock flying type charged forward once more. Slamming into the grass type, he skidding across the ground as he dug his heels in, stopping both in a close quarters lock. Balls of green energy flying off his dinosaur and onto Vincent's starter.

With a swift whack of his head, a shimmer confirming the metal coating, he knocked Meganium down. His jaw burst into flames and he bite down hard.

Meganium cried out as several vines shot out. Wrapping around different parts of Aerodactyl, they attempted to pry him off.

His dinosaur finally released the grass type and attempted to take off. Almost pulling Meganium along with him, whose vines were still wrapped around.

"Leech Seed quick!" Vincent shouted.

Meganium cried out as a series of small brown seeds erupted upwards. They struck Aerodactyl, as he attempted to escape, covering him in roots.

The rock flying type dived back down and slammed both wings into Meganium twice. Causing the vines to retract, Aerodactyl took off once more as a red outline surrounded him, clearly zapping his energy.

"The sun is strong today, Meganium!" Vincent called out, a hint of excitement in his voice, "so let's use Solar Beam!"

Meganium's petals turned bright white as solar orbs began to fall towards him. He turned towards his own Pokémon who was too high to hear his voice.

Vincent's starter launched his Solar Beam straight into the air. Aerodactyl attempted to avoid it but the Leech seed affected his aerial mauver.

Clipping his wing, the dinosaur entered a steep dive. A gasp followed the audience, but Ash had seen him use this tactic before.

At the last second, he used his wings to change direction and continue with his momentum parral to the ground. He slammed into Meganium and sent him flying as his Solar Beam was cancelled out. Meganium landed on his side as Aerodactyl loomed over, landing on his feet once more.

"Now!" Vincent cried out.

A cloud of purple powder shot out of Meganium's petal neckless. Unable to take off quick enough, Aerodactyl took it straight in his face.

Letting out a loud cry, he shot off into the air. The red energy sapping consumed him as he did. Turning towards Meganium, he saw him standing back up as a mystical light surrounded his body. Vincent's starter looked brand new through the combination of synthesis and leech seed recovery.

"Aerodactyl, he's using stall tactics like Venusaur!" Ash yelled at the top of his voice, "if you're not careful, you'll fall before any real damage is done!"

As if to answer, Aerodactyl roared, high over the field. He began circling around the air, similar to when Charizard uses Seismic Toss.

Glancing down at the ground he saw Meganium taking in sunlight. Ash knew his dinosaur couldn't hear him now with the wind rushing past his ears so all he could do was watch. The fully evolved grass starter launched his powerful beam into the air.

The red blur disappeared as Aerodactyl shot straight down, a power barrier forming around him. Meganium's solar beam clipped the top of it.

Like a rocket, he shot straight down. Bright lights from both sides made it difficult to see but Ash couldn't help but smirk at the similarity to another battle.

Mere seconds later, he slammed into the ground and a power barrier exploded, pushing Ash, Vincent and even the ref to the floor. Smoke and dust covered the end result as everyone looked to see what had happened.

"And Aerodactyl makes a power play by landing a massive Giga Impact which was his finishing move in the Orange League!" the announcer explained among the for once silent crowd, "but was it enough to put an end to Meganium's stall tactics or has he finally met his match?!"

A glass-shattering roar echoed throughout the stadium. As the dust settled and smoke faded, the shilluette of his dinosaur stood tall, still covered in roots.

With the results now visible, Ash smiled as he saw his strongest Pokémon stood tall over the defeated Meganium. As the crowd erupted in applause, he couldn't help but glance behind as he saw the hurt and defeated expression of Vincent. His chin was pressed up against his body as his head and gaze were down turned, his bottom lip was trembling, and he even pulled down his cape which landed overhead, as if to hide.

Despite winning the battle, Ash felt like a massive jerk right now.

"Meganium is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round, and the trainer progressing onto the top eight placements, Ash Ketchum from Pallet town."


Closing his eyes, Ash stood himself back up and recalled his Aerodactyl to his Pokéball. Despite the crowd cheering for him, he didn't feel much like celebrating and shoved his hands into his pockets. He began to walk back into the stadium as Pikachu ran up onto his shoulder.

"And Ketchum has made quick work of his opponent using only his beastly Aerodactyl!" the announcer exclaimed, "he has now made it into the top eight, confirming him as the fifth trainer to do so! We have two of the remaining three battles currently underway in other stadiums but stay tuned to this one whilst we reset the field because you don't want to miss what's next!"

Slumping through the battle, the pure embarrassment written over Vincent's face stuck in his head, along with the images of all three of his Pokémon fallen beneath Aerodactyl. While he knew his Fossil Pokémon's reasoning for wanting to face that team, he really wished he hadn't. Maybe even swapped him out for the duel against Magneton because it was Azumarill and Meganium who taunt him beforehand.

Of course, he already knew Aerodactyl would've declined. Not being one to back down regardless of the odds.

He was just so focused on Granbull and her old trainer. If he hadn't been then he could've put together a more solid team, one which properly covered for his dinosaur and could've given Vincent a nice challenge instead of a beat down by one Pokémon. If he wasn't so preoccupied, then he might've even be able to convince Aerodactyl to leave the taunting. Not to mention he hasn't visited Leaf at all since Drake broke her heart... some friend he is.

"Nice job, Ketchum," a snide voice appeared from behind him.

Looking up from the ground, he saw Paul leaning against a wall with a confident smirk written on his face. His hands were casually tossed in his pockets and nothing about him really stood out as wanting to challenge.

"Get lost Paul," Ash growled, he really couldn't be bothered with his Tauros crap right now, "I can't be bothered to deal with you right now."

"I thought you would be over the moon," Paul continued, pushing up off the wall, "after all, you've made it to the top eight placements. And in quite a good display of strength, if I do say so myself."

"Y-you saw?" Ash stuttered.

"I may not like you, Ketchum, but I know you could be a threat if we face each other," Paul crowed, "so I've been checking out you, along with all my other competition. Even if your philosophy about all Pokémon being strong is flawed, you do have several that I would be concerned to face... that dinosaur being top of the list... and you just effectively proved why. A clean sweep isn't something easily pulled off, especially with a single Pokémon."

"Shut up!" he cried out.

"What's the matter with you, Ketchum?" he asked, while his expression showed genuine confusion he's tone held a sarcastic underline, at least that's what Ash heard it as, "your normally upset when I'm against your methods but I'm congratulating you on your victory."

"I said shut up!" he cried out once more, turning on his heel to run.

As he did, he heard his rival speak once more, "pathetic." He wasn't surprised in the slightest and just ignored him, as he ran through the corridor. Several signs past but he didn't read any, he almost knew his way off memory due to all the stadiums having a similar structure.

If his mind could be any more, it would be. That encounter with his rival just proved one thing, he has betrayed his true beliefs, everything he thought and tried to follow throughout his whole journey. Even Paul made comments about how he would've done the same, if circumstances allowed him to. He knew that his Aerodactyl was capable but instead of letting some of his newer or weaker Pokémon take part, he just went in with one of his heaviest hitters.

He clutched his stomach as he thought back to his first league competition. Every trainer he faced seemed so much more experienced and he couldn't help but wonder how he would've felt had one of those experienced trainers just swept him. He would've been embarrassed, ashamed, humiliated... gagging at the thought, part of him wanted to go and find Vincent to beg for forgiveness... although his feet refused to move.

Fear coursed through his veins as the interaction played out in his mind. Vincent never was one to worry about public-attention and such a thing could come off as arrogant or sarcastic. He wants to apologise, of course, but doing so could cause more pain to the young trainer... why couldn't he just say no to Aerodactyl before any of this happened?

Well... he knew why. He always wants to give his friends what they want whenever possible, and the whole situation with Granbull has messed up his head.

As he stepped back out into the lobby, he saw a few crowds of people either leaving or entering the building, it was hard to tell. He decided to stay over in the less crowded area and just wait for everyone to clear out. As a competitor, it's not uncommon for the fans of the battles to stop him, it evened happened at both the orange and indigo leagues and right now, he just wants to be alone.

From his current position, he could see one of the large screens showing highlights from the group stage battles so far. It cut away to show the finalists right now, Ash's image filled up the sixth spot with three black cards following, each with a question mark in. Before his image, however, show the pictures of: Paul, Jimmy, Gary, and Harrison.

The only question now, who would fill in those final spots?


Serena sat at the edge of the bed as Calem's last battle finished. She was happy to see that he had joined the list of finalists and now they just needed to wait for the interviews. While she was glad most of their friends made it through. Grabbing the remote she, turned it off and turned to see Leaf curled up by the pillows with a bowl of ice cream.

"So how you feeling?" she asked.

"Better," Leaf smiled, placing the bowl on the bedside table, and crawling over to hug the honey-blonde girl, "thanks for staying with me these last few days, Serena. You're the best friend I could've asked for."

"Any time, Leaf, but we won't have any more battles to watch tomorrow," Serena replied, "we could watch the interviews but those aren't until tomorrow evening so..."

"I don't want to risk running into Drake," she admitted, "I-I might be feeling better but I'm also not ready to see Drake yet."

"I get that," she smiled, "so why don't we go somewhere he wouldn't be."

"What do you have in mind?" Leaf asked.

"Well I've got an eye test appointment tomorrow," she explained.

"How come?" she asked.

"Aria suggested that I have it done," Serena admitted, "and the opticians is in the middle of the shopping centre. You know he won't be shopping so we could make a girl's day off it... I need some new cloths for when we travel to Hoenn and we haven't had a day like that since, I can't remember the last time."

"Alright Serena," Leaf smiled, "you've got yourself a deal."

"Great!" she smiled, jumping to her feet, "I'll come and get you in the morning and then we can go for breakfast too."

"What about Ash?" she asked, "will he be joining us or-"

"I doubt it," she replied, "he doesn't know about the eye test and... he has some other business to deal with."

"Normally you do your clothes shopping together, don't you?" Leaf asked, the corner of her mouth flicking up in a smirk, "or are you planning on buying something more saucy to surprise him?"

"Leaf!" she screeched, her face bursting into flames as she placed her hands on her now burning cheeks.

"Hahaha, I'm just teasing you," she laughed.

"Well I don't need to worry about him," Serena shook her head, trying to regain some composure, "Delia told me she planned on creating outfits for both him and Drake but what about you? Don't you want a new outfit for Hoenn, Leaf?"

"I guess I could do with a new look," she replied, "b-but I don't know if I'll be going to Hoenn next... I mean, I don't know what I'll be doing next. Not yet."

Serena closed her eyes and nodded in understanding. Placing a hand on her shoulder, they shared one last hug and wished each other a good night. She got that, after having her heart broken it's understandable that she wouldn't have thought about her next adventure. Especially considering Drake will likely be going to Hoenn as well.

Stepping out of the room, she closed the door behind and sighed. It's nice that Leaf is starting to feel better, at least. Taking out a Pokéball, she released her fairy type eeveelution, who wrapped a feeler around her hand. Sharing a single look, they smiled and set off back towards her own room with Ash.


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...