Author's Note:
Here it is, the second part of the top eight battles and the last one for this particular part of the victory tournament. I was going back and forth over which second 'top eight' battle to show in full. It came down to Gary's battle or the one between the two trainers here. It is mostly going to be Hoenn hype as we get to see Harrison's team face off against Calem. We also get a look in on Gary and his mindset during this league. Since it was brought up in the last chapter, I can confirm the first secret arc I've got listed on my 'upcoming arcs' list will be Drake's adventure in Unova. I'll be writing it after Hoenn but before the battle frontier, although in terms of timelines, it'll run co-current with Hoenn. Don't forget to vote in the poll, which'll finish when we start Hoenn and with that, let's begin!
Chapter 96: Silver Conference - Calem VS Harrison
Ash walked down the seating area overlooking one of the battle fields. One of his best friends, Gary Oak, was currently competing for a placement in the top eight. As he looked towards the field, he saw a double knock out between Gary's Arcanine and his opponent's Ampharos. He turned his attention towards the screen for an insight on the battle so far.
Gary's team appeared to be: Machamp, Arcanine, Golem, Scizor and Skarmory. Although his final Pokémon was still a secret and obviously his only option left in this situation. From what he's gathered, it had been pretty back and forth from the start. He saw some highlights playing on the screens on his way here and the first half was on the grass field. Although now they were on a desert field and a lot of the field seemed covered in spikes.
His opponent was Jon Dickson, and according to his screen, his team was: Rhydon, Rapidash, Ampharos, Jumpluff and Ariados. From what he learnt; Jon was an experienced trainer by he's only competed in the Silver conference a couple years back. His Rapidash was still able to battle, as was his unknown member.
Seeing his friends up ahead, he saw Serena, Brock and... Leaf. Surprised to see her, he offered a smile as he saw a seat available next to his girlfriend. As he closed in, however, the cerulean-eyed beauty stood up and gestured to her seat. Inwardly chuckling to himself, he figured she'd do something like that after the battle they watched where there wasn't a seat available. Reaching them, he was greeted by a quick hug and kiss on the cheek before taking the seat.
As expected, Serena quickly took a placement on his lap, wrapping her arms around him. Smiling at her, he turned towards the others, "hey guys. What are you up to?"
"Just checking out the battle," Brock replied, "it seems Gary has been brought down to the wire."
"What about you, Leaf?" he asked, "didn't expect to see you here."
"Well... I wanted to get out again and figured, this battle would be the last one he'd be at," she explained, "by the way, congratulations on your battle, Ash."
"Thanks," he smiled, "I just hope Jimmy's doing alright. Losing can never be fun experience."
"I'm sure he'll be alright," Serena offered, "Marina said she'd plan something to help cheer him up."
"Speaking off, I bet your excited," Leaf smiled.
"What do you mean?" Ash asked.
"For your date with Serena," Leaf replied, "I helped her plan it when we went shopping."
"I hadn't told him yet, Leaf," Serena scowled, sighing, and turning back towards himself, "sorry, Ash, I wanted to surprise you. But since tomorrow will be a day off from battles before the top four rounds began, I figured we could go on a date."
"That's great!" Ash beamed, placing a small kiss on her cheek, "I'd love too."
"Just be thankful I was there to help her plan it, Ash," Leaf interjected, "I had to use all my strength to stop her from dressing you in a speedo and having the 'date' in some sort of dungeon... and I even confiscated her handcuffs, for you."
"LEAF!" Serena screeched, her face burning red. She clutched his jacket and buried her head into his chest. Ash couldn't help but chuckle at his girlfriend's misfortune. He knew when his pseudo-sister was teasing but seeing her so happy was worth it, even if he was a victim in her shenanigans.
"And Gary has revealed his last Pokémon to be his Umbreon while Jon has gone with his Rapidash!" the announcer explained, as all attention returned to the field, "Rapidash has taken more damage from the spikes Gary's Skarmory set up previously! She's also clearly feeling the effects of her previous bouts so it's clear who has the advantage! But with Jon still having a Pokémon unrevealed, the battle could go either way!"
"I really hope that Rapidash makes some Umbreon shish kebab," Pikachu commented from the free seat that Ash would've used, had Serena not insisted on sharing hers, "watching him get beat up will be very therapeutic!"
"Rapidash verses Umbreon," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Jon Dickson verses Gary Oak: Round nine
Ash smiled as the pure fire type charged forward over the sand-filled field. He wasn't moving nearly as fast, at first, he figured it was because Rapidash was tired from its previous battles! However, the camera's provided a close up and saw his hooves sinking into the sand. Clearly not padded enough to resist.
His horn glew bright white and enlarged. A light-green tint echoed around the appendage as his head lowered to slam it into the dark type eeveelution.
Umbreon, however, rolled to the side, easily avoiding. He spun on the heel and turned to follow the fire horse Pokémon.
Rapidash took a wide breadth and sent another charge. This time, however, Umbreon stood his ground.
A power barrier surrounded him and the Megahorn smashed into it. Rebounding off, Rapidash was sent backwards onto her back legs. Umbreon was quick to end his protect shield and spat a blob of purple sludge into his opponent's face.
"And Umbreon has set up a time limit with Toxic on Rapidash!" the announcer explained, "we've seen him stall him out a few opponents like this already!"
The fire horse Pokémon slammed his hooves down and shook his head around, trying to clear the toxic off his face. While Gary's Pokémon disappeared underground during the commotion. Rapidash continued to stamp around as he struggled to see.
"Use Flame Charge and run straight forward!" Jon called out.
Stamping his feet around, like a toddler throwing a tantrum, Rapidash disappeared in a dust cloud. Charging out, he was covered in flames.
The eyes burnt harder than anywhere else, creating a sort of possessed look to him. He was picking up speed, although barely. He continued to swerve around and stampede over the entire field.
"Now!" Gary shouted.
Umbreon shot out of the ground and tackled the fire horse in the side. He landed on top of a sand hill, as Rapidash stumbled down.
"Alright, return for now Rapidash!" Jon tried to recall but Umbreon acted first. Landing in front of his opponent, his face enlarged in a haunting manner. A black outline surrounding Rapidash. The red beam from his Pokéball struck him but was forced off.
"And it seems Umbreon has trapped his opponent in the match with Mean Look!" the announcer explained, "now Jon either has to forfeit his Pokémon or see how the battle plays out! It seems Gary doesn't want to leave any loose ends with this one!"
Rapidash swung his horn forward, catching the dark type as he stood up. Entering a charge, her horn glowed and extended once more.
"Confuse Ray then fall back!" Gary called out.
Umbreon struggled as he was slammed into the wall. Slumping down, a yellow ball shot out and hit Rapidash's face. He quickly disappeared underground.
Rapidash stumbled down onto her front hoove as Umbreon remerged behind, glowing a healing light. His tail glew white with a black aura around it. Slamming it down on the fire horse Pokémon's throat.
Wheezing out a gasp, Umbreon bounced off, landing back in front of his trainer. Rapidash collapsed to the side, gasping for breath as his eyes became swirls.
"Rapidash is unable to battle," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash watched the dark type eeveelution walk back over to the champion's son as he kneeled down to show him some affection. It was clear why he was able to achieve the friendship evolution and the bond they share. It's a long stead since the days back in Kanto when he was an arrogant kid with a cheering squad.
"Boo! Boo!" a voice echoed from the side. Glancing to the seat next to him, he saw Pikachu stood and cupping his hands over his mouth.
"Can't you just enjoy the battle?" Ash asked.
"If it was anyone else Gary was using, then yes," Pikachu replied, flopping down, and crossing his arms, "but not that... buffoon!"
"Buffoon?" Ash asked, "even I know you can do better than that... besides, I would've thought if you wanted anyone to beat him, you'd want to do it yourself."
"You do make a good point, punching him in the face will be very enjoyable," Pikachu nodded, "but if someone else does it for me, I won't complain!"
"And we've made it to the final round!" the announcer declared, "we have Gary and his Umbreon but who is Jon's final Pokémon? Only one way to find out!"
"You're up, Feraligatr!" Jon shouted, releasing his presumable starter.
He was a large, bipedal, crocodilian Pokémon with light blue scales. He's jaws were yellow and lined with several sharp fangs. When he closed his jaw, three teeth were visible, two from the lower jaw and one from his upper. His eyes were red with black markings around them and ridges above them. There are three red spines on his body, each with three points: one on top of his head, one between his shoulders, and one near the tip of his tail. There were also several groups of large, rectangular scales on his arms, knees, tail, and waist. His back was slightly hunched with ridges behind the shoulders and hips. His lower body was yellow, with V-shaped markings that extends up to his thighs, a thin line through the centre of the marking. Despite seeing Silver's before, Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a quick refresher:
Feraligatr, The Big Jaw Pokémon. The final evolved form of Totodile. Feraligatr intimidates its foes by opening its huge mouth. In battle, it will kick the ground hard with its thick and powerful hind legs to charge at the foe at an incredible speed. Careful swimming in lakes as they are very territorial.
"And Jon has picked his powerhouse of a Feraligatr as his final Pokémon, while Gary has to stick with his Umbreon!" the ref declared, "despite already battling once, Gary's dark type seems fresh thanks to self-healing tactics so now it's time for a matchup between an unstoppable force and an immoveable force!"
The friendship-eeveelution walked back onto the field, landing on a sand hill to make him almost equal in terms of height. Umbreon crouched low and let out a threatening growl as Feraligatr slammed his fists together. Ash held his breath, his hands wrapped around Serena as he felt ready to burst, shaking with excitement. Part of him was excited at the prospect of his own Croconaw evolving one day but mostly, he just wanted to see his friend battle again!
"Feraligatr verses Umbreon," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Jon verses Gary: Round ten
Ash watched as the pure water type charged forward. His clawed hands clenched into fists as an icy mist surrounded them. Charging up the hill, he wound the first back and punched the ground where Umbreon once stood.
The dark type eeveelution leaped over head, performing a summersault. Landing on ground, he tried to turn on the heel.
Feraligatr's tail swung and knocked him off balance. Spinning around, the water type slammed an ice punch down on the downed moonlight Pokémon.
Umbreon rolled to the side, barely avoiding it. The big jaw Pokémon pursued his assault, not letting up in the slightest.
"Toxic!" Gary shouted.
His dark type Pokémon attempted to shoot out a blob of toxic sludge, as he danced around each punch. Feraligatr shot it away with a water gun in the air.
"You've trained your Umbreon well, Gary, and he is almost perfect for stalling out opponents," Jon smirked, "but if he can't get those attacks off, he'll lose."
"We've got loads of tricks still to show you, don't count your eggs until they hatch," Gary smirked, "Umbreon, evasion then disable!"
Umbreon landed on the ground and closed his eyes. Several copies appeared around the field as Feraligatr punched the original. It disappeared into nothing.
"Scratch!" Jon shouted.
Feraligatr cancelled his ice punches and extended his claws out, although barely. He charged towards the next nearest Umbreon.
Several of the copies around the field shot out blobs of toxic sludge. Some splattered on him and disappeared harmlessly but one stuck and burned, smoke raising off him. He came to a stop and roared at the burning sensation as he stumbled backwards.
"That was toxic, not disable!" Jon shouted.
"Correct," Gary smirked, narrowing his eyes, "you see, disable isn't actually a move Umbreon can use but it sounds he might be able to. So, we use that as a tactic to lead our opponents into thinking we'll do one thing. That's why you got Feraligatr to switch to scratch, right?"
Feraligatr roared and launched out a powerful hydro pump. It swept across the sandy plains, destroying each clone as it came into contact.
One of them leaped into the air and buried underground, barely avoiding the attack, as it finished off the last clone.
Feraligatr snarled as it ended his attack!
Raising a foot up, he slammed it down on the ground causing it to shake around them. Despite not feeling the effects thanks to psychic types protecting the stadium separate from the field. Seeing the smaller sand-hills collapsed showed how powerful it was.
As it seemed to come to an end, Umbreon scuttered out of the sand, panting heavily. A glowing colour overtook his body, as he attempted to heal.
The big jaw Pokémon charged forward, his body glowing with a red outline. He tackled the dark type and began punching him hard.
"Quick Attack and Confuse Ray!" Gary shouted.
His friendship evolution shot between the water types legs and far away from his tail. He spun on his heel and launched a golden ball back. It collided into the water starter as he turned around. His eyes became dilated as he began thrashing around harmlessly. Umbreon resumed his moonlight healing.
"Listen to my voice Feraligatr!" Jon called out, "if you don't then-"
"You have trained your Feraligatr well, Jon, its truly a remarkable specimen of his series," Gary interjected, a smirk forming on his face, "so Umbreon, let's use his strength against him!"
Umbreon, who was looking in a lot better shape, zoomed forward across the field. Jumping onto the water types arm, as he punched the ground, he climbed.
His tail glew black with a radiating outline. Swinging it around, it whacked his jaw with a powerful blow.
Disorientated by the last blow, he fell down onto his stomach as Umbreon landed in front of him. A shadow ball formed at his mouth as he launched it straight into the water types face. A smoke cloud engulfed his face but as it faded, Feraligatr's eyes went from dilated to swirls.
"Feraligatr is unable to battle!" the ref declared, "making the winner of this battle and moving onto the top four, Gary Oak from Pallet Town!"
Ash couldn't help but smile at the sight of his rival-turned-friend celebrate with his dark type eeveelution. Jon was recalling his fallen starter and walked off the field. If it wasn't for his girlfriend occupying his lap, he would've jumped up and cheered along with the others surrounding the field. Glancing around, he saw many of the spectators starting to collect their things. Part of him wanted to join them but Serena wasn't moving yet, and he didn't have the heart to ask.
"And it's been decided! Gary Oak will be the third trainer making it into the top four along with Ash Ketchum and Paul Shinji who won their respective matches earlier today!" the announcer declared, "and over on our other field the final battle in our top eight round will begin shortly to see who'll be our final top four competitor! Hope to see you all there!"
After getting up from the stadium, Ash walked out with Serena wrapped around one arm and her head resting on his shoulder, Pikachu occupying the other. A large crowd surrounded them, so they lost the others but planned to meet up anyway, so it wasn't too big of a deal. Reaching the lobby, he came to a stop.
"Huh? What's wrong," his girlfriend asked, swinging on his arm as if to encourage him to keep walking, "aren't we going to see Calem's battle with Harrison?"
"Y-yeah," he stuttered, a little nervous because of how tightly she was latched onto his arm, "but I wanted to catch up with Gary. Why don't you go and get the seats and I'll come and catch back up with ya?"
"Okay," she replied, swirling around in front of him as her arms looped around his neck. She pressed her lips against his for a few seconds, "but hurry up, it can get pretty boring the down parts and intermission."
"Your certainly in an affectionate mood," he smiled, wrapping his arms around her waist.
She smiled and pecked his lips a couple more times, "your my boyfriend and I'll be as affectionate as I want with you."
With one final kiss, she took off back into the crowd. Turning around in a flowing twirl, her hand landed on her hat before it blew off. With one final wink, she turned back and disappeared out of sight.
Smiling to himself, Ash felt like the luckiest guy in the world... he's felt that for a while, she seems to just have ways to make him feel that way and after her performance at the opening ceremony... he really hopes she keeps that dress again. Although that bow was a bit comically big, from what she told him it was to help cover her modesty... part of him wondered what the outfit looked like without that accessory-
STOP IT!
Mentally scolding himself, he shook his head, trying to not think of his girlfriend like that. Ever since becoming a teenager, his mind has seemed to develop a Brock-complex and while he doesn't fall for every female that he passes, he certainly has become enchanted like his older brother figure use to. Hopefully, he can get his hormones under control and fast. Last thing he needs is to wake up and find his mind tried to put him in an awkward position with Serena.
Entered the door that leads down to the trainer's wings, using his trainer's card as an authorization pass, he entered the empty corridor. He barely got five steps in before seeing Gary and his Umbreon walking the other way. A pleased smile on his face.
"Behave with Umbreon around," Ash whispered to his starter, who pouted from his shoulder perch. Smiling towards his rival-turned-friend, he walked further to close the gap, "hey Gary!"
"Hey Ashy-boy, what are you doing here?" he asked.
"Came to check on ya," he smiled, "how you feeling? Joining me in the top four."
"Joining you?" Gary asked, "please, we both know I'll be passing you either next round or when we face off."
"Good luck with that," Ash smirked.
The two friends burst out into joyous laughter as they engulfed each other in a quick bro-hug, complete with pat on the back, "come on, Ashy-boy, I wanna show you something."
He followed the Oak boy out of the building and across silver town grounds, away from the second stadium where he was due to meet back up with Serena and the others. The faint echoed of the stadium could be heard as they entered the forest. If it could even be called a forest, a few trees bunched together.
Passing through them, Ash came face to face with the lake that he had been told about. A large dark blue circular pool, as far as the eyes could see. A full moon reflected on the surface, shimmering under the star-y sky. On one side he could just make out some woodland and mountain dwelling Pokémon, like Nidoran, Sentret and Hoothoot. even an Ursaring was there, drinking from the crystal water but it was just as peaceful as the others. They soon made it to a large rock, which the brown-haired boy climbed on top of. Ash followed suit and saw his rival-turned-friend lying with his arms behind, propping himself up.
"Hey Ash," he spoke lightly.
"Yeah?" he asked.
"Do you ever consider what would've happened if things went different?" Gary asked.
"What do you mean?" Ash asked.
"Well, what if you wasn't the last one to choose your starter all those days back in Pallet town?" Gary asked, "you never would've started with Pikachu. And you wouldn't have angered a Spearow who'd force you into a lake. You might not have met Misty and Brock might've not joined your little group."
"Where's all this coming from?" he asked.
"Many people believe that what we perceive as destiny is nothing more than circumstance and shaped by our decisions and actions over our lives," he explained, "everything we do, no matter how small has consequences. Even Pokémon prove that."
"How?" Ash asked.
"It's known that Mew is the ancestor of all Pokémon. After all the legends were created to mould the earth and reality to what we know it as, Mew populated the earth but slight changes in environments caused it to change into the many different species we see today," Gary continued, turning his attention up to the sky, "take Noctowl and Dodrio. Both have a common point in being normal flying types, but one grew on spread out flat lands and took upon running to help cover those long distances. While the other grew in mountainous forests. Requiring moves like flash or foresight to survive in the dark nights. Dodrio have long beaks to reach into insect nests while Noctowl's beak is large and round, perfect for breaking nuts open."
"Your starting to talk like Professor Oak," Ash smiled.
"Heh, guess I am," he sighed, "but as I've been travelling in Johto, I've noticed those things. How different Pokémon learn to adapt with a change in environment. Its why regional variants are popping up in places like Alola and Galar. Pokémon not normally native to an area learning to adapt in a hurry."
"That all does sound interesting," Ash admitted, "but where's all this coming from?"
"Guess I've changed, or I dunno," he sighed, "I-I've decided that after the silver conference... I'm gonna give travelling a rest for a while, help gramps out with his research and stuff."
"You are?" Ash asked, "how come?"
"It's like I've been telling you, Ashy-boy, that is just where my next step of this journey is taking me," he smiled, "and besides. Leaf's gonna be hanging out around Pallet too. Finally working on that book about how to complete the Pokedex so-"
"I guess that means this could be our last chance to compete together," Ash muttered.
"I guess it does," Gary agreed, "I'll just need to use the opportunity to show the world how great I am, one last time."
"Good luck, but I'm not give in so easily," Ash replied, a flame of determination burning within his eyes, "if it's my last chance then I'm gonna be sure to use it to show you just which of us is truly the better trainer."
"You're on," Gary smirked, holding his hand out.
Seeing the gesture, Ash clasped his own hand into it, and they entered a tight grip. Raising it to both their eye levels, they were locked in place, forcing Ash to see the determination in his friends face and he returned it with just the same. Gary's smirk morphed into a smile as he relaxed and released. Sighing, he slumped down off the rock and began to walk away.
"Where you going?" Ash called out.
"To get the gang healed," Gary raised a hand as he continue to disappear, "after all, I might be facing you in the top four the day after tomorrow and if not, I need to beat them so I can still face you in the final."
Smiling as the spiky-haired boy disappeared through the treeline, Ash sighed himself. Relaxing on the rock, he looked over the lake, truly taking in the natural beauty before him. His first thought was this should be where he and Serena go on their date but she has planned it so he won't try to curb stomp any plans she might have. Sliding off the rock, he took off around the edge of the lake. Despite knowing the final battle between Harrison and Calem was already underway, he wanted to take in as much of this sight as possible.
Slowly making his way around the edge, he saw more Pokémon enjoying the lake as well. Bug types like Yanma and Ledian were flying over top, their scales shimmering with the reflective surface. Water types like Wooper, Poliwag and Remoraid, splashing around and having fun.
It's hard to imagine but it seems hardly anyone from their journey thus far will be joining them in Hoenn. Obvious, Serena and Brock will be, and all their Pokémon but Misty will be off with Rudy in the Orange Islands before taking her place as Cerulean City gym leader. Gary and Leaf will be sticking around in Pallet and Drake... he's off to Unova, all by himself. It's gonna be like starting their adventure all over again.
He continued forward as the sound of something tapping hit his ears. It was a faint sound and was quickly followed by a plop. A few seconds past before he heard it again, tnk, tnk, tnk, tnk, plop. Looking ahead, he saw the shilluette of someone skipping stones into the lake. At least the noise was explained, and he walked closer, not divulging from his path. As he did, the moonlight shone to reveal the person as none other than-
"Jimmy?" Ash questioned, "what are you doing here?
"Huh?" Jimmy replied, turning towards him as he did so, "oh, hey Ash."
He offered a weak smile which quickly faded back into his stoic expression. Looking down at the ground, Ash followed his gaze to see a pile of pebbles next to the New Bark Town native. Jimmy leaned down and picked one up, skipping it into the pool.
"You alright?" Ash asked.
"Yeah... I think so," Jimmy sighed, "I just... like to do this, ya know. Back before becoming a trainer I'd skip stones at the lake next to New Bark whenever I just wanted to clear my head."
"I can understand that" he nodded in agreement, "hey Jimmy, sorry about earlier. I know there was a chance we'd end up facing each other at some point but-"
"Don't be sorry, Ash, that was one of the best battles I've ever had," Jimmy replied, "I'd rather lose a fun battle than win a one-sided one."
Ash glanced down at his feet, at that comment. He truly felt the same but after his battle against Vincent, where Aerodactyl completely swept him, he couldn't really voice that opinion.
"So whatcha thinking about?" Ash asked.
"Just what to do next," Jimmy sighed, "I know Marina wants to compete in those showcase things and they're opening up in Johto, Kanto and Hoenn... not to mention Kalos but they've always operated there... it's funny, despite knowing our journey in Johto was coming to an end, we haven't even talked about where we'd go next."
"Where do you want to go?" he asked.
"Honestly? Anywhere but here," Jimmy sighed, turning his attention to the sky, "don't get me wrong, I love Johto and it'll always be my home... but here, I'm always seen as the champion's brother. I just want to go somewhere fresh, make a name for myself and not just my family title."
"I can understand that" Ash replied, "it's almost the exact opposite of Gary. He wouldn't go five minutes without reminding everyone he's an Oak and proud off it... things sure have changed over the years."
"You and Gary... you didn't always get on, did you?" Jimmy asked.
"No," Ash sighed, "for a long time he was my biggest rival... but over our journey's, we've become friends... we still have that rivalry spark but it's not about beating each other, not really. Its more so we get to prove ourselves to each other."
"I wish I had a friend like that," Jimmy sighed, "it must be nice."
"What about Vincent?" Ash asked, "I thought you two were best friends."
"We were," Jimmy replied, "before we became trainers, at least. I guess I could've seen it coming, he was always asking about Ethan and wanting to go to the stadium to watch his matches. Over our separate journey's... I guess I realised he was just using me because of my brother... and then the whole thing with Marina."
"I'm sorry, Jimmy," Ash apologised.
"Don't be... I'm glad I learnt it before he could do any real damage, like between me and Marina," Jimmy replied, "honestly. The most fun I've had at the conference was watching your Aerodactyl just tear him to shreds. He talks a big game but he's all mouth."
"Heh, I'm glad someone enjoyed it at least," Ash chuckled.
"So where are you heading next?" he asked, "do you know or?"
"Y-yeah, Serena and I will be heading off to Hoenn for our next adventure," Ash replied, "or well, we'll be stopping off in Pallet first. Ya know, to recharge."
The two friends spent a few more minutes chatting before Jimmy received a text. With confirmation his Pokémon were able to be seen now, he quickly took his leave. Ash sighed in relaxation until his mind reminded him that he promised Serena he'd meet her at the battle. Gulping at the thought of her being upset with him, he quickly ran towards the stadium in hopes of making up lost time.
Ash struggled down the railing, passing by many of the spectators already. The battlefield was clear but several highlights from the battle thus far was playing on the overhead screen. He spent far longer at the lake than intended and thus he already missed the first half.
He was interested to see one of the Pokémon battling against Calem's Espeon. This Pokémon was a bipedal, which appeared to be made of wood. A shaggy white mane covered most of its face and trails down its back. Long pointed ears poke out the top of its mane, and it had a long, pointed nose and a large mouth with teeth that were barely visible as the main moved whilst it bounced around the field. Its eyes were yellow with black sclerae. This Pokémon's feet resembled wood-steps. Three broad leaves with brown spokes form each of its hands and were used to create powerful winds, according to the battle. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his Pokedex as he continued through the stands:
Shiftry, The Wicked Pokémon. The final evolved form of Seedot. Shiftry's large fans generate awesome gusts of wind at a speed close to 100 feet per second. The whipped-up wind blows anything away. This Pokémon chooses to live quietly deep in forests. It can be very territorial, travellers beware!
Closing the device, he quietly made his way further down until he saw his friends. Serena had her back towards him, in some sort of conversation with Leaf, with Brock and Misty sat further along, each engrossed in their own conversation. As he reached them, Leaf sent him a friendly smile. This must've alerted his girlfriend as she turned towards him. Her eyebrows lowered and her lips fell in a frown. She stood up, hands on hips and foot tapping.
"What time do you call this?" she asked.
"I erm, hehehe," he chuckled nervously, scratching his cheek. His feet shuffling in place, "sorry Serena. Guess Gary and I kinda lost track of time and then I ran into Jimmy and... yeah, sorry."
She dropped her mock anger and greeted him with a hug, "guess I'll forgive you," she rolled her eyes. Returning the smile, he took the seat and quickly felt the weight of his girlfriend as she made herself comfy. Unfortunately for him, he was stuck starting at her back as she continued her conversation with Leaf.
"Hey Serena, I can't really see the screen... or field or anything really," Ash attempted to interject.
"Well you should've showed up sooner and you could've seen it live," she replied simply, quickly returning her attention back to his sister-like best friend who burst out laughing at his misfortune. He prepared to interject once more but felt a pair of lips against his own, "don't worry Ash, Miette should be back soon and when the intermission is over, you'll be able to watch. I'm just playing with you."
The two continued their conversation and peaking around the edge of his girlfriend, he barely made out the sight of the main screen. It seemed like a pretty back and forth battle, with Harrison leading but barely, three to two knockouts.
Lights around the stand went down as the field became bright and focus once more. Due to the night sky, the bright lights made it stand out even more than in the day. The ref was the first to return to the field as it raised up to reveal another new field type. It was a thick woodland with large trees blocking the view between the two trainers, who were walking back out from their respective wings. A small stream of water ran through the middle, hardly big enough for some of the larger water types known. Ash was interested in it because it would be difficult to keep track of what was happening.
"The battle shall resume with the same rules as before on a forest field," the ref declared, "as Calem started the first half with his choice, this time Harrison shall be the one to reveal his Pokémon first!"
"Go Ninjask!" Harrison shouted, releasing his Pokémon.
In a flash of light, the small cicada-like Pokémon appeared. It had a pair of large, veined wings with triangular, red tipping's. Its body was mostly black with accents of yellow and grey. Most of its head was yellow, but there was a solid band of black between its gleaming red eyes. The band expanded into a circular pattern on its forehead, between two pointed crests on the sides of its head. The underside of its head was grey and segmented, making it somewhat resemble a veil. On its back was a patch of black with a stretch of yellow, shaped like an upside-down letter Y. Most of its carapace and abdomen appeared black but it was only glimpses from the camera closing up on it for moments, but there was a ring of yellow near the tip. Its grey insectoid arms extended from its chest and had its small, yellow claws turned inward. There was a similar pair of back legs. Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan it:
Ninjask, The Ninja Pokémon. One of the final evolved forms of Nincada. Ninjask moves around at such a high speed that it cannot be seen, even while its crying can be clearly heard. For that reason, this Pokémon was long believed to be invisible.
"And now it's your turn, Forretress!" Calem shouted, releasing his bug steel type.
"It seems were in for a battle of the bugs as Harrison brings out his speedy Ninjask after it dominated Espeon at the end of the first half!" the announcer explained, "but will Calem be able to turn things around? It's been a pretty back and forth battle so far between these two experienced trainers!"
"Forretress verses Ninjask!" the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Calem verses Harrison: Round six
Ash watched the bug flying type disappear into the forest. It might've been small, but it was incredibly fast. A constant buzzing sound could be heard throughout the stadium as he tried to make out what was going on within the forest.
Forretress, despite seeming docile in place, closed up into a solid ball. Large pillars of rocks shot up out of the ground in no particular pattern.
"They've set up Stealth Rock's, Ninjask, so we won't be safe using a U-Turn switch at any point," Harrison's voice echoed through the sound system, "do what you can to land some solid hits in!"
The ninja Pokémon shot out of the treeline and back into sight. Raising one of his small claws up, it glew with light-green bug type energy.
Swiping it down into the bagworm Pokémon's side, Forretress was sent spinning across the field. He slowly opened up as Ninjask zoomed back after him, delivering a second Fury Cutter, twice as powerful. This time sending Calem's bug steel type into the forest.
With both bugs out of sight, Ash turned his attention towards the large screen. Presumably, camera were set up ahead of time as it revealed the inner field.
Forretress was immobile in place, wincing as his opponent continued to deliver powerful blows. Despite not being very effective, Ninjask surely packed a punch for being so small. He wouldn't be surprised if he had set up with Swords Dance or something in the forest when Stealth rocks were set.
"Hey guys, I'm back," a female voice chimed from the side. Turning towards the source, Ash saw Miette stood overhead. Pikachu must've realised he was in her seat and jumped onto Serena's lap as the bluennet took a seat, "so how's the battle going?"
"It's hard to tell, but Harrison's Ninjask seems to have the advantage at the moment," Ash answered, "it's certainly fast and that field gives it plenty of cover."
"Yeah but Calem has a plan, just watch," she replied, an ever-present smirk on her face.
Turning back towards the field. Ninjask delivered another Fury Cutter, this time sending the bagworm Pokémon high into the air and over the trees.
"It seems that Harrison and Ninjask have this round in the bag but Calem seems remarkably calm," the announcer explained, "he hasn't made a move all match!"
"Tell me Harrison, have you heard the story of the Wartortle and the Buneary?" Calem asked, as the main screen cut to a close up of the Hoenn native, whose eyes widened in fear. Calem turned towards the sky, "now Forretress!"
Ash turned his attention towards the sky, as Ninjask was shooting straight up towards his opponent. Forretress appeared to reach his apex of height.
Closing his shell once more, Forretress began spinning as he fell. A grey outline appeared circling his body. Controlling his fall, he slammed into Ninjask.
The two bugs began falling straight down, with Forretress slightly adjusting his path. Missing the trees, which could've softened the blow, they slammed into the earth directly in front of Harrison. Rolling off the ninja Pokémon, Calem's bug began slowly rolling back to his original position.
Ninjask laid flat on the ground, his arm twitching as swirls replaced his eyes.
"Ninjask is unable to battle!" the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Calem and his Forretress!"
Ash watched as Harrison recalled his fallen bug flying type. Calem kneeled down and rubbed the top of his bagworm Pokémon's head. It was certainly interesting to watch a Forretress battle. Brock's only seemed interesting in exploding so seeing those tactics were kind of cool.
"What a turnaround for Calem, who lead his opponent into a false sense of security!" the announcer explained, "and he was able to even the numbers as well but two of Harrison's Pokémon battled in the last round so, he has a slight edge! The battle could really go either way!"
"Return Ninjask and good job," the Hoenn natives smiled, quickly swapping Pokéballs with another which he tossed high into the air, "and you're up, Zangoose!"
In a flash of light, the pure normal type appeared on the field. It was a bipedal, cat-ish Pokémon. Although it dropped down onto all fours, crouching low and growling. Maybe like Typhlosion and other Pokémon, it's both bipedal and quadrupedal. Its fur was mostly white with deep red, scar-like markings on the face, chest, and forepaws. It has two long, black claws on its forepaws and pink paw pads on its hind feet. It had pink eyes, long ears, and a small red nose. When it opened its mouth, two sharp fangs could be seen on its upper jaw. There are small tufts of white fur on its shoulders, and it had a large, fluffy tail. The rocks on the field flew and smashed into him. Ash stared at the battle-hardened Pokémon, who seemed unfazed by stealth rocks, as he pulled out his Pokedex:
Zangoose, The cat ferret Pokémon. Zangoose usually stays on all fours, but when angered, it gets up on its hind legs and extends its claws. This Pokémon shares a bitter rivalry with Seviper that dates back over generations.
"Wow, can you imagine having two Pokémon that hate each other?" Serena commented, "like it's their very nature."
"Doesn't sound to different from Pikachu and Houndoom," Ash joked, receiving a stuck-out tongue from his starter, "but I wonder what Seviper is like with its rivalry?"
"I don't know," Serena replied, "but Zangoose looks kinda cute, if you ask me."
"Cute?" Ash asked, "I mean, its looks tough and strong for sure but... cute?"
"Serena always did always have a weird definition of cute," Leaf interjected, "I mean, she said that boyfriend of her's was cute too."
"Hey!" Ash cried out.
"You was asking for it," Miette agreed.
"I'm feeling very outnumbered here," Ash complained.
"Don't look at me," Pikachu pipped up, jumping over towards Brock.
"Well you did choose a seat surrounded by three females," Brock added, scratching the electric type under the chin, "what did you think would happen?"
Ash sighed and turned his attention back towards the field. Zangoose's stance and attitude reminded him of his Sandslash. It was actually kinda interesting how some Pokémon, despite not being similar in shape or size or even habitat can act the same.
"Return for now, Forretress!" Calem recalled in a beam of red light, also switching his device with another which he held out, "go Ampharos!"
The pure electric type landed on the field with an echoing cry. Ash was vaguely confused why Calem would swap out Forretress, a steel type would seem perfect for counting a normal type. Maybe he knows something he doesn't. Still, looking at the forest field, it's clear Harrison holds some sort of advantage.
"Ampharos verses Zangoose!" the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Calem verses Harrison: Round seven
Ash watched as the normal type disappeared within the trees. Turning his attention towards the screen overhead, he saw close up shots of the cat ferret Pokémon running on all fours. He was incredibly fast, like a predatory chasing down its lunch.
Leaping out of the other side, he flew towards Calem's electric type. Claws first, glowing white and extended out.
Ampharos ducked her head, avoiding the initial impact. Her tail swung as she regained balance, causing Zangoose to jump back.
The gem on her head glew. A bolt of lightning shot out and straight at Zangoose, who dived out of the way. She used the opportunity to run into the forest.
Zangoose landed on all fours, claws scraping into the earth and leaving marks. He charged forward also into the forest.
"It seems Ampharos is trying to avoid Zangoose, but this might be a bad play on Calem's part!" the announcer explained, "Zangoose are some of the most fierce hunters from the Hoenn region and is much more at home than the light Pokémon!"
Turning back towards the screen, he saw Ampharos with her back up against a tree trunk. She was nervously glancing around whilst panting heavily.
A pair of claws slash across her stomach, causing her to kneel over. A white blur shot back and forth as she cried out in pain.
Zangoose continued to remain hidden as he released several more slashes. Ampharos cried out which echoed over the stadium.
A massive bolt of lightning struck down from the sky. Smashing into the cluster of trees, a shockwave burst out. Smoke took off from the forest followed by flames spreading across the trees. Turning towards the screen, he saw Ampharos struggling back up as a burning branch separated her from Zangoose.
Calem's Light Pokémon's gem shone with flames surrounding her. A multicoloured Signal Beam shot out. It struck the normal type head on.
Zangoose went flying out of the treeline. Smashing into the side of the stadium as the beam vanished. He slumped down but stood up.
He struggled as he looked towards his trainer, "wait and recover, Zangoose. Ampharos is trapped within the flames, either she'll come out or faint."
The cat ferret Pokémon growled but nodded. Jumping around the earth patch away from the flames, his body began to glow as he swiped his claws at loose branches which had been blown out. Crushing them under his strength, he was clearly using some boosting move for an adrenaline boost.
A massive bolt of electricity expanded as a dome, blowing over several trees and transforming the field. It was mostly clear, apart from some burning trunks.
In the centre of the field was a large ball of cotton. Zangoose charged straight towards it and began unleashing a series of slashes.
Cotton chunks broke off, but the ball never seemed to get smaller. As the normal type continue to swipe away, a yellow hand reached out and grabbed it.
He was dragged into the dome as more chunks of cotton blew off. Ash held his breath as he awaited for the result.
A massive bolt of lightning shot down once more, striking the dome head on. It burst through the cotton and exploded. The white guard went flying in all directions as Ampharos stood tall. Holding her opponent up by one hand and Zangoose was helpless as he took the Thunder, full force.
She let go and dropped him. The burnt normal type slumped down next to her, smoking and unconscious.
"Zangoose is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Calem and his Ampharos!"
The Pallet native felt his mouth drop at the sight before him. He knew Calem was tough but so was Harrison. Rattling his brain, he tried to come to some sort of answer as how this match suddenly turned so one-sided. Maybe if he saw the first half in its entirety but right now, that seems like a completely different match up.
"Calem makes it two for two coming back in the second half a whole lot stronger!" the announcer explained, "so the question is now, how will Harrison respond to this new challenge level?"
"Get a good rest, Zangoose, you deserve it," Harrison recalled his fallen normal type. He stared down at the device for a few moments, clearly contemplating his options.
Ash almost felt sorry for him, while he wants Calem to win because he's Serena's cousin, he doesn't Harrison to loose. The Hoenn native has proven to be a strong trainer and after avoiding a clash at the orange league, he would love for the chance to battle him now. He could honestly be happy with either side becoming a victor. Really, his favourite part of this battle has been getting to see some Hoenn Pokémon in action, imagine meeting them when they travel around that region. The thought alone has him pumped to see what's next.
"And Harrison has been brought down to just two options on what to do, along with the forest almost being completely gone!" the announcer declared, "will he go with his ghost type that we saw in the first round or shall he reveal the final Pokémon in his line up?"
The Hoenn native sighed and put his Pokéball away. His hand moved around the belt, taking off a different device which he enlarged in his hand. He looked up and stared across the field. His eyes narrowed as he tossed the ball up into the air
"Banette, you're up!" Harrison shouted, releasing his next fifth Pokémon.
A dark-grey, doll-like Pokémon appeared in front of him. It had three short spikes on its head and a long zigzagging ribbon trailing off the back of its head. A zipper acted as its mouth, and it had purplish-pink eyes with slit pupils. Its long, flat arms have three-fingered hands, while its legs were short and stubby. It had a yellow, brush-like tail. Despite being very short, it was actually quite intimidating in a creepy sense. Once again, the rocks shot across the field and smash into the pure ghost type. He seemed to take them a lot worst as Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan the new Pokémon:
Banette, The Marionette Pokémon. The final evolved form of Shuppet. Resentment at being cast off made it spring into being. Some say that treating it well will satisfy it, and it will once more become a stuffed toy. They will loiter in a child's wall until the parents leave if they find the one who abandonded them.
"And Harrison comes back with his Banette after its match against Qwilfish in the first round!" the ref announced, "clearly Harrison wants to leave his final Pokémon a secret for as long as possible but who will Calem go with to counter this ghost?! Only one way to find out!"
"Rest up for now, Ampharos," Calem recalled his light Pokémon. As she disappeared in a red beam, Ash noticed how tired she looked, panting heavily as she leaned against her legs and looked ready for falling over. Despite winning, Zangoose really did a number on her. Calem switched Pokéballs, "go Forretress!"
"I don't get it, Forretress is hardly a great match up," Ash spoke aloud.
"During the intermission, Calem went over his plan to control the second half," Miette replied, "Harrison already revealed Ninjask, Zangoose and Banette in the first half so after getting a taste for their styles, he knew Forretress could stall them out. To ensure he wouldn't get too tired by doing three consecutive rounds, Ampharos had counter measures in place for all but Banette. Ninjask obviously being weak to electric types but Zangoose relying on wide open areas to move around in."
"Which is why they set the forest on fire, restrict his movement," Ash finished, realisation hitting him, "that's pretty smart of Calem."
"Wouldn't he have been screwed if Harrison went with his final Pokémon then?" Leaf asked.
"Yes," Ash replied, "but that was very unlikely. He would've needed to play some serious mind games to try that strategy since keeping his last member secret is his biggest advantage right now."
"As is Calem and his last member," Miette added, "I'm not saying he's guaranteed to win but he has been in control of the second half from its start."
"And it seems we're in for an unusual match up of a Forretress and Banette. Neither side really suited to deal with the other naturally," the announcer explained, "so we will just need to wait and see what each side has in store!"
"Forretress verses Banette," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Calem verses Harrison: Round eight
Ash watched the ghost type fade into a shadow on the ground. He slid across the floor in a speedy manner, zigzagging as he did. Leaping out of the ground, he slammed straight into the bagworm Pokémon. Both went rolling across the ground.
Forretress shot out several splatters of toxic sludge through the four cylindrical spikes. Banette avoided them by diving back into the earth.
"Careful getting close, Banette!" Harrison called out, "he'll try to poison you with Toxic. Keep your distance and attack!"
The shadow zipped across the field, disappearing behind some of the remaining charred trunks. Forretress remained motionless on the field.
Blue balls of fire and large purple Shadow Balls flew out from seemingly every direction. Looking closely, you could make out the ghost floating around.
Each projectile slammed into the bug steel type. A misty-cloud engulf the burning ball creating a sort of jack-o-lantern look.
"Alright, let's make it a chase," Calem called out, "into the sky!"
Forretress began spinning around, blowing everything away. Sparks jumped off his body as he began to levitate, taking off into the sky. His body was still burning from the will-o-wisp, but he hardly seemed affected otherwise.
"How is Forretress flying?!" Leaf cried out in surprise.
"Magnet rise!" Pikachu pipped up, "I can feel the electric charge from here. Quite powerful for a none-electric type."
"You realise only I understood that right Pikachu?" Ash asked.
"So do your translator thingy so everyone else gets my insight," Pikachu ordered, "I don't keep you around for much else, ya know."
"Banette, your gonna need to go after him but be careful!" Harrison's voice echoed, "they have something planned!"
The pure ghost type shot out of the ground and up into the sky. As he floated towards them, with a less than remarkable speed, Forretress spun and spat out more toxic sludge. Banette danced through the rain, clearly trying to avoid being hit.
Reaching the apex, he floated overhead of his opponent. His facial features burst out of his face and a crippling purple tint surrounded Forretress.
A black zig-zag beam shot out of each eye. Striking into the bagworm Pokémon he was knocked down towards the ground.
Forretress was able to save his flight, spinning once more as he attempted to move out of the firing line.
Two shadow balls came flying down. He quickly opened up his shell, a semi-transparent grey wall appearing. It shot bright and absorbed the ghost moves.
Banette shot forward, fist first as it glew black with a purple outline, sharp claws extending out. He swarmed around the bagworm Pokémon, easily manuvering around him in a quick manner as he continued to assault the bug steel type with Shadow Claws.
Calem's Forretress shook violently as black beams shot off. The payback struck Banette and caused him to curl over falling straight down.
The bug steel type closed his shell and shone under the moonlight. His entire body a light grey colour as he fell down fast. Banette smashed into the earth and was crushed by his opponent. Unfazed, the bagworm Pokémon rolled off the marionette Pokémon. Harrison's fifth Pokémon was out cold on the burnt ground.
"Banette is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round, Calem and his Forretress!"
Ash found himself chewing on the inner part of his mouth as he watched Forretress completely dominate the battle. He knew it was a great support player, but this was showing it as an offensive force... guess a great offensive can be an even better defence.
"And just like that, Calem has brought Harrison down to his last Pokémon!" the ref declared, "but both his Forretress and Ampharos took heavy damage over their battles? Will this be enough for him make a comeback or has the victor already been decided?!"
"Return and rest, Banette," Harrison recalled his pure ghost type, staring down at his Pokéball, "thank you bud."
Looking back towards the field, he saw Calem with a Pokéball out, but he seemed to be watching his bagworm Pokémon carefully. Flames seemed to be dying down from around him as he was still conscious. Clearly, he was waiting to see which Pokémon Harrison went with before making a judgement call.
"Well buddy, it's you and me... but not for the first time, and I doubt it'll be the last" he sighed, as he held the Pokéball up, with a determined look in his eye, he tossed the device high into the air, "go Blaziken!"
In a flash of light, a bipedal Pokémon with some bird-like features. The rocks flew over towards him. Majority of his body was red with accents of beige, yellow, and grey. Behind his head, there are beige, hair-like feathers that continue downward and surround his chest and abdomen. He has a small red face with a V-shaped crest on his head. Blaziken's blue eyes are semi-circular with yellow sclerae, and his mouth was similar to a hooked beak. He has featherless, grey hands with three fingers each, and three clawed toes that were covered by the shaggy, yellow feathers on the bottom of his legs, only becoming visible when he performed a kick with one leg, jumping kicking his second leg and landing on his original kicking leg. His wrists had grey wristband-like markings, which burst into tufts of fire. His ankles also sprouted flames. Ash felt his heartbeat quicker at the intimidating Pokémon as he pulled out his Pokedex:
Blaziken, The Blaze Pokémon. The final evolved form of Torchic. In battle, Blaziken blows out intense flames from its wrists and attacks foes courageously. The stronger the foe, the more intensely this Pokémon's wrists burn. A single kick is enough to break bricks with its pure strength.
"And Harrison goes with his starter and by most accounts, his personal strongest Pokémon, Blaziken!" the announcer explained, "but now the question is, how will Calem handle it? Forretress and Ampharos hardly have strong type match ups for the fire fighting type!"
Ash felt a tingle travel down his spine as he watched the blaze Pokémon loom over Forretress. Turning back towards Serena's cousin, he half expected him to recall Forretress as a safety net, sort of like how he did with Granbull but surprisingly, he attached the Pokéball back to his belt. He could make a few guesses on what he was planning but the main thing that came to mind was what Jimmy did with his Electrode.
"And it seems we're in for a match between Forretress and Blaziken!" the announcer explained, "despite a clear type advantage, anything could happen!"
"Forretress verses Blaziken," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Calem verses Harrison: Round nine
Ash couldn't believe what he saw. In the blink of an eyes, Blaziken crossed the field with a flaming fist. Performing a fiery upper cut, he sent the bug steel type flying high into the air. Swinging his leg around, it smashed on Calem's bagworm Pokémon as he was about to smash into the ground.
Forretress went flying across the field. Straight through a charred tree trunk which collapsed into ash. Smashing into the wall across from Blaziken.
"His shell is taking most of the damage!" Harrison called out, "try to open it! That should make your moves more effective!"
His fire started leaped over the field, performing a summersault. Rolling onto the ground, he stopped in front of his opponent. He picked him up and attempted to open his two halves by twisting either side. Almost like trying to open a jar of some kind.
The metal ball quickly opened with the front two cylindrical spikes pointed forward. He shot out blobs of toxic sludge which covered Blaziken's face.
"Explosion!" Calem cried out.
Forretress began to glow white. Vibrating violently.
Blaziken shook his head, clearing his eyes from the toxic and ran forward. Holding his opponent overhead, he came to a stop but continued the momentum through his upper body. Launching his opponent high into the air. Taking a deep breath, he shot a flamethrower up after him.
A fiery inferno lit the sky. Heat searing down over everyone. Ash had to cover his eyes and close his eyes as a deafening bang erupted throughout the stadium, likely the whole region. He was disorientated as he found himself looking towards the ground with Serena clutching around him. Shaking his head, he realised that explosion was far more directed than Electrode's in his battle or even Brock's own Forretress. Could it be because of the flame thrower shield that Blaziken used? Or had Calem specifically trained it that way?
Turning towards the field, he saw the fire fighting stood by Harrison side, arms crossed. Although showing clear signs of being poisoned. As Calem's bagworm-
"Forretress is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Harrison and his Blaziken!"
"And Harrison makes a comeback by taking out Calem's Forretress, even if being inflicted with toxic in the process!" the announcer explained, "but how will both trainers react to this! Only one way to find out!"
Calem silently recalled his fallen bug steel type. He stood still for a moment staring at the device, it looked like he whispered something to it, but it must've been very silent as the microphone and speaker system didn't pick anything up. After what felt like a while, he sighed and attached the device back to his belt, switching it with another.
"I need your assistance, Ampharos!" Calem called out, releasing his light Pokémon.
Despite Blaziken suffering from toxic, it looked like Ampharos was in a far worst condition. She was stood tall but hardly with a stern spine, she was covered in cuts and bruises as she walked back out onto the field. Shaking her head, she entered a battle stance.
Turning towards Harrison, he glanced to his starter and gave a short nod. The blaze Pokémon leaped from his position and landed in a battle stance.
"Ampharos verses Blaziken," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Calem verses Harrison: Round ten
His breath caught in his throat as Blaziken sped across the floor. Reaching the electric type, he delivered a quick two punches to her chest.
Ampharos attempted to counter with her own swings.
Blaziken jumped over head, easily avoiding them as Calem's light Pokémon stumbled forward. Landing on both feet, he bent one knee and extended the opposing leg. With a swift sweep in a circle, he tripped the electric type up.
Standing up, his feet burst into flames. Swinging one overhead, it came down hard on his opponent.
It smashed into a cotton barrier. Blaziken swiftly delivered a double kick and brick break to the defensive ball, harmlessly bouncing off.
"Blow it away!" Harrison cried out.
The fire fighting type crouched and launched himself into the air. Spinning a few times, he sent a large flame thrower straight down.
It engulfed the cotton-guard and covered the entire field, destroying what remainder of the forest field remained.
Ending his fire attack, he entered a steep dive. The flames disappeared upon entry, as his fist glew white.
Ampharos rolled to the side, barely avoiding Blaziken's landing. He created a creator upon the impact, landing on one knee in a superhero pose.
"And we see a true power play by Blaziken who showed both physical strength, speed and manuverability," the announcer explained, "it seems like this will make two quick take downs for the fire fighting type! Or will Calem and Ampharos find some way to turn this around?!"
Calem's electric type was the first to stand up but Blaziken wasn't far behind. The blaze Pokémon quickly entered another speedy assault of punches.
Crossing her arms across her body, and tensing up, Ampharos took each punch in stride. With an echoing cry, a massive bolt of lightning struck down. Both Pokémon were engulfed by the blast.
As the commotion settled both Pokémon stood next to each other. Blaziken slight hunched and panting with visible sweat on his forehead.
Ampharos, however, collapsed forward.
"Ampharos is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Harrison and his Blaziken!"
Ash watched as the Kalos native silently recall his light Pokémon. His girlfriend leaned back into him as he engulfed her in a hug. He knew she was supporting her cousin for obvious reasons so seeing him brought down in quick succession wasn't easy to watch. Obviously, Blaziken was far from fresh at this point so he still held that advantage over Harrison... but the raven-haired boy still wasn't sure who to support. He would be happy to face either of them.
"And Harrison evens the score by bringing his opponent back to his last Pokémon," the announcer explained, "so the question is what will happen in the last round of this back and forth battle?"
"Go Chesnaught!" Calem shouted.
In a flash of light, the bipedal, mammalian Pokémon with some plant-like features. There was fluffy white fur on his belly and fringing his face like a beard. He has a small, pink nose with a three-pointed patch of brown fur extending up his short snout, and four pointed teeth. On top of his head is a plate of beige armor, similar to a helmet. He possesses a prominent domed, armor-like shell similar to that of a chestnut. The armor is beige with four large spines jutting out of the back. The armor was trimmed with red and green bands; the green was on the outmost edge. There was an additional spine protruding from the armor over each of Chesnaught's shoulders, which are connected by a green breastplate. His body was coloured similarly to the shell, and his long limbs and tail are banded with plates of armor. The top surfaces of the tail and arms are protected by green armor, and each arm has two small spines. He had three brown, clawed digits on his hands and feet. Ash pulled out his Pokedex
Chesnaught, The Spiky Armor Pokémon. The final evolved form of Chespin. When it takes a defensive posture with its fists guarding its face, it could withstand a bomb blast. In the past they were incorporated into wars as ballistic shields.
The blaze Pokémon walked back out onto the field. His posture was less than what it was, and he wasn't exerting himself in flashy movements. Even if he was still able to battle, the poison was clearly starting to take a toll. Despite one having a major type advantage, it was clear this would be evenly matched.
"Chesnaught verses Blaziken," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Calem verses Harrison: Round eleven
He watched as the fire fighting type charged across the field. Swinging a leg around, he feet caught fire and smashed into the Spiky armor Pokémon.
Chesnaught tensed up and a green shield covered his face. He barely seemed affected as Blaziken leaped over head.
Landing behind him, Blaziken swept his foot around and attempted to trip up the grass fighting type. It failed and Chesnaught remained unfazed, he sent out several vines which wrapped around the blaze Pokémon's leg, sending him flying overhead.
Turning his flight into a summersault. Blaziken prepared to land like he had done previously.
The grass fighting type hunched over, and hundreds of green pins shot out of his spiky back. They rained down over the field, causing him to kneel over.
Entering a slow run, he curled up into a ball and began rolling across the field, straight for the kneeled blaze Pokémon.
"Counter and disarm!" Harrison shouted.
Spinning on the spot, Blaziken shot off towards his opponent. A burning red flame engulfing his body, it seemed to expand out into a blue flame as he smashed into the rollout. The two Pokémon were lost in a fiery explosion.
Silhouettes could be seen on the monitors close up. It showed Blaziken grabbing Chesnaught's arm and hurling him over the shoulder.
Calem's starter went flying across the field. Spinning mid-air, he landed on a knee with an arm out to support, scrapping to a halt.
Blaziken emerged from the flames, panting heavily as he grimaced from recoil damage.
Chesnaught ran entered a slow run, a power barrier forming around him. The second duel fighting type also entered a run, faster but less powerful.
The two starters collided, Calem's Pokémon going for more power hits. While the blaze Pokémon used his superior speed to avoid them. He got in a couple more hits, but they hardly seemed to affect him. The most effective of which appeared to be a blazing foot direct to the spiky armor Pokémon's face.
Raising an arm, the grass fighting type entered it in green grass energy. It swiped down and sent the fire fighting type backwards, landing flat on his back.
Chesnaught Jumped from his placement, barely getting a few feet in the air. He extended all limbs as he prepared to flatten his opponent.
Blaziken rolled to the side, barely avoiding the body slam. His feet burst into flames as he spun around, getting back up in a ring of fire.
He used the momentum and delivered three blaze kicks direct to Calem's starters head. Standing his ground, Blaziken rested his arms against his legs, panting heavily, a red flame seeming to radiate off him. His opponent slowly working his way back up. Both Pokémon seeming on the verge of collapse.
"And it seems Blaziken has had his Blaze ability activated!" the announcer explained, "but it also means he's on his last legs! This nail-biting battle is coming down to the wire so hold onto your seats folks!"
"It's all or nothing, Chesnaught!" Calem called out, "Frenzy Plant!"
Calem's spiky armor Pokémon raised a foot up and slammed it down, a violent earthquake followed. Several large vines broke out through the ground.
The fire fighting type went flying up into the air. He began running back down as several more vines emerged, shooting straight for him.
Blaziken skilfully parkoured over the vines, a red flame covering his body. It burst open into a blue flame as he shot across the vines. He skilfully continued across the field, even using a flamethrower to retract one of the vines he couldn't avoid... burning it to a crisp.
He ran across the closest vine and leaped at the motionless grass fighting type. The two Pokémon disappeared among the flames and vines.
Each vine erupted in fire which covered the entire field. Surrounding everything under a blaze of glory. As the flames subsided, both Pokémon were revealed.
Blaziken was suffering heavily from his toxic status and recoil damaged spazzed all over his body. He looked ready to collapse. While Chesnaught was panting heavily, surrounded in ash and burn marks. He was resting his arms against his legs, also looking ready to collapse. The two duel-fighting starters looked each other in the eyes. Both nodded towards each other as one fell forward straight onto his stomach followed by the other.
"Both Pokémon are unable to battle," the ref declared, "as Chesnaught fell first, it makes the winner of this battle and the final trainer moving onto the top four, Harrison Hazuki from Littleroot town in the Hoenn region!"
Turning towards the large screen, the image of Harrison joined those of Paul, Ash and Gary. They split into two cards between either side, one on the right showing Paul would be facing against Harrison as the second in the top four rounds in two days' time. While Ash was a part of the first battle on the same day, against Gary.
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