Author's Note:

Here it is, the first of the top four battles and the long-awaited rematch between Ash and Gary. I hope you like the teams and the battles as I tried to do all the big battles that have been built up... namely Pikachu and Umbreon. I have also tried to make it different enough so it's not just a rehash of the anime. Other than that, we get the long-awaited league date between Ash and Serena, fitting since single-awareness-day or valentines as others call it is here. Don't forget to vote in the poll, it'll change over when we start the Hoenn arc and with that, let's begin...


Chapter 97: Silver Conference - Ash VS Gary

After sharing a hearty breakfast with Serena, Brock and Misty, Ash set off on his own. He made plans with his girlfriend to meet back up tonight for their date, and she even made him promise not to eat before then. He wasn't sure what she had planned but she was certainly excited. So, he decided to use the day beforehand to plan out his team for his battle against Gary... which is exactly where he was heading right now.

Entering the Pokémon centre, he made his way through lobby and down one of the corridors. Following the signs on the walls, he found his way to the physical therapy wing. He dropped off Dragonite before his breakfast for another check-up. She has been working with Nurse Joy since they got to Silver town.

He found his way to a room with a large pool and different pieces of equipment scattered around. On the far side of the room was his dragon flying type and the pink haired nurse. His female Pokémon had her hands wrapped in some coloured elastic band thing, which was tied to the wall behind. She seemed to be trying to pull it off as the nurse offered positive encouragement. Ash quickly approached them.

"How is she doing?" he asked.

"A lot better," Nurse Joy smiled, "she has made her way through four different band levels since we started before the conference."

"Does that mean she is ready for battles again?" Ash asked.

"The nerve damage in her hands has almost completely healed and her strength is returning but she isn't back to one-hundred percent yet," she explained, as she turned to face him, "and we tested her flight abilities earlier. She is comfortable in the air, but still unable to perform at high speeds. Moves like extreme speed are completely out of the question."

"So, is that a yes or a no?" Dragonite asked, standing up. While the nurse wouldn't have understood, her expression said it all.

"I was going to say it would depend on how she felt about it," the nurse continued, "but she has clearly made up her mind. I do have some ground rules though."

"Anything," Ash replied.

"She can't partake in too many rounds in a row. Over exertion is a real threat to her recovery at the moment," she explained.

"Of course," he replied, "anything else?"

"I'll be in the judgement stand to help the refs with making calls," she added, "if I feel at any point she is being overwhelmed or over-exerted, I can and will prevent her future in the battle. My priority is her health, not your victory."

Unable to think of another word to say, he just nodded in agreement. "So other than that, can she battle?"

"Yes, provided that she is happy, you don't allow her to compete in multiple rounds and I oversee her judgement rounds," she repeated, "you can use her."

"Thank you," Ash bowed in respect.

"I have some other patients to check over, and I'll need this room for them," she explained, "if she is going to battle tomorrow then she should rest today."

Nodding in understanding, they he turned towards his mighty dragon who moved behind him. With a quick thank you, he made his way out of the therapy room. As they walked out into the corridor, he noticed a young girl sat on a waiting seat with a Machoke next to her. Guessing they were the next patients; he quickly made his way out with both Pikachu and Dragonite in tow.

"So, guys, we have to face Gary next and obviously come up with a team," he explained, "Gary has a wide variety of Pokémon and types so we need to come up with a team able to withstand them."

"Well we can be your starting pair," Pikachu pipped up, "I can do all the heavy lifting but I'm sure queenie over there will find something to do."

"Can we shut him up, already?" Dragonite growled.

"Stop it you two," Ash chuckled, shaking his head, "but he does make a good point. You two were my first choices anyway."

"I'm gonna say we need to expand as many types as possible," Dragonite added, "I feel I pass as a sufficient water type at this point. But if I am to fully use my rain-style, we should avoid a member weakened by said strategy. Like a fire type."

"Charizard won't be happy about that," Ash added.

"He can take part in the final," Pikachu added, "I can see it now, a fiery show down between Charizard and Blaziken. He'll have a ball."

"You seem to be pretty certain on how these top four matches will go," Ash shook his head.

"What can I say, it's a gift," Pikachu shrugged, "I'm not just adorable."

"So, whose next?" Ash asked, "I'm thinking Snorlax for some much-needed bulk. Not to mention his normal type being a good match for pretty much anything except fighting."

"Which my flying type can cover," Dragonite added.

"Wouldn't hurt to cover that again though," Pikachu added, "especially if you're on a roundly rotation."

"Who you thinking off?" Ash asked.

"Alakazam," Pikachu added, "he maybe mister serious but he does know a wide variety of moves. Perfect to counter many different opponents."

"I concur with that assessment," Dragonite added, "and as the next option, I'd like to nominate Sandslash."

"I did not see that coming," Pikachu added, "you two get on like chalk and cheese."

"Same," Ash added, "your hardly best friends."

"My judgement isn't about friendship," Dragonite explained, "he has proven to be a tough battler and knows how to handle himself. His immunity to electricity doesn't hurt either."

"Should I feel offended?" Pikachu asked.

"So, you two, Sandslash, Snorlax and Alakazam," Ash listed, "that makes five."

"Any suggestions for a final member?" Pikachu asked.

"I have one but it's a little left-field," Ash admitted.

"I take it that doesn't mean Aerodactyl," Dragonite admitted, "while I'd feel he would be a welcome addition, between myself, Snorlax and Alakazam, I feel his power and strategic mind are covered. So, who do you propose?"

Ash smiled towards her. They had made it out towards the back battlefield, and he slid his backpack off, revealing his collection of Pokéballs. Reaching in, he began to sort through for his selected team already. He took a deep breath, "I was thinking, the final team member should be-"


Ash placed down some money on the counter. The women behind, an elderly women, probably late fifties with silver hair and a garden apron covering her clothes. He walked out of the flower store and looked at the bouquet. It mostly consisted of red roses, far from a big bunch but the women suggested it for a date. She said something about not making it a massive bunch because then he will have a proper way to upgrade for their anniversary.

He pulled on his shirt, a smart button shirt. She told him not to dress up, but he thought he'd at least make an effort. Besides his normal clothes were a little dirty after a training session with his team chosen to face Gary. Making his way towards the town park, he took a deep breath.

Approaching, he saw his girlfriend stood underneath a streetlight. Despite the setting sun, the streetlights were illuminating her. His breath stuck in his throat as he took in her appearance. It was probably the last thing he expected to see her in. A black sleeveless blouse with a red skirt. She had some makeup covering her face but not much. He realised that it was almost a carbon-copy of her original outfit when they set off on a journey for the first time.

"Hey," she greeted, walking up to him and wrapping her arms around him. Pushing herself up, she placed a kiss on his cheek, "I told you, you didn't need to dress up. Although you do look good in that shirt."

She pecked his lips a couple more times, her arms resting on his shoulders. He smiled towards her, "and you look great. But you always do. A-and these are for you"

"Thank you, Ashy, they look lovely," she replied, taking the flowers from him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and continued to peck his lips. He couldn't help but push back, hoping to make them last a little longer each time, as the last one came to an end, her giggling caught his attention, "hehehe, we should really get going."

"We should," he replied, taking the opportunity to kiss her once more.

His hand became engulfed between her two. She began pulling away, almost skipping as she practically hugged his arms. He was just happy to follow her as she lead the way. He looked around a little confused as the past by the town and entered the tree line. Unsure where they were going, he soon got an answer as the lake came into view. A checkered blanket spread out with three covered dishes on top.

She pulled him down onto the blanket, as she reached for one of the plates. Uncovering it, showed a sort of liquid base meal it was also thick, a flaming red colour complimented the strong smell coming off it.

"It's a curry, a speciality from the Galar region," she explained, picking up a chunk from the meal with a fork.

Moving it towards his mouth, he gladly accepted the bit. His eyes widened and watered a little from the intense spice filling his mouth. He coughed into his hand as he struggled to swallow it. It slid down his throat, burning on the way down. He blinked a few times as he lowered his hand.

"Whoa... that's... that's erm, hot," he choked.

"Sorry, I tried following the recipe and picked one based on your favourite berries," she explained, "chesto. But I probably added in too many spices."

"No-no, its great... just hot," he coughed. She placed the circular plate down and picked up the rectangular one.

"Well maybe these will help," Serena explained, uncovering them for Ash to see an array of rice balls, "traditionally curry is served with rice and bread, but I wanted to test Brock's rice ball recipe for myself."

"I'm sure they'll taste great," he smiled, leaning in to place a kiss on her cheek.

She smiled and passed him the original plate. Picking up her own, she uncovered it and they entered a peaceful dinner. He quickly adjusted to the strong spice and flavour, taking in the view of the full moon over the shimmering sparkling lake. Just like the night before, it was as beautiful as ever.

Resting the plate down on the picnic blanket, he felt a heavy weight engulf him as Serena landed on top of him. Falling onto his back, he found her lying on top with a joyous laughter. She placed a few kissing on his lips between the giggles.

"Wow Serena, this was a great date," he praised, "from the meal to the location."

"Well... I wanted to pick a place with a beautiful view," she admitted.

He smiled and placed a hand on her cheek. Pulling her closer to his, they stared each other into their eyes, "from where I'm sitting, I couldn't find a better view. It's beautiful."

She blushed bright red and pushed her head into the crook of his neck. Rubbing her head around, he wrapped his arms around her. He smiled as he embraced her. Chuckling lightly, he silently admitted to himself that he found her completely adorable when embarrassed. It added another level to her cuteness.

Placing a hand under her chin, he raised her head up so they could connect their lips once more. The enthusiasm in which she returned the gesture was surprising as he wrapped his arms around her waist. Letting her weight push him back, he found himself lying on his back, he hoisted her up on top of him without breaking their connection. He found her straddling him as they lost themselves in each other.

Slowly, she pulled back the make out. "Okay, I'm ready."

"Ready for what?" he wondered as his eyes widened and voice stuck in his throat. Ash's imagine started to run wild with what those three simple words implied. His heart raced the instant he wondered if this was going where he thought it was going. Part of him felt he needed scolding for such thoughts but due to her current position, who could blame him?

Instead of answering, she pushed him back, standing up and looked down on him with a sly smirk. Stepping back, she appeared to be waiting for him, as he pushed himself up with his arms, he found himself in a sitting position. His girlfriend lit by the moonlight behind her. She placed her hands on her black top and began pulling it up. His mouth became incredibly dry as she tossed the top to the side.

He couldn't quite believe the bold move she just made. Her hands fell to her waist and pushed her skirt down, slowly stepping out of it. Tossing it to join her other discarded clothes. She dropped to her knees and landing on top of him, she pecked his lips a couple more times.

"It's my swimsuit, Ash," she giggled, "and I brought yours. I thought we could end this date with a moonlight swim in the lake."

"Y-you couldn't have told me before. I-I could've wore it under my normal clothes," he stuttered.

"I could've... but why ruin the surprise," she asked, pecking his lips a couple more times, "besides there's plenty of trees around. I promise not to peak."

She past him a pair of swim shorts and kissed him a couple more times. He picked up the swim shorts and raised an eyebrow, "these are new."

"I brought them when Leaf and I went shopping," she smiled, "same as my bikini. I would've thought you'd notice that was new first. Or is my big brave hero afraid to look? I won't be mad."

Serena stood up once more, performing a twirl as she slowly walked towards the lake. Taking in her full appearance, he realised that she was right. It was a two-piece bikini in a dark blue colour, making her fair complexion stand out against them. As she dived into the water, Ash reached up to his nose scared it was bleeding. As she swam away from the edge, performing a couple more enchanting twirls, Ash scattered towards a nearby tree as he clutched the shorts.

Changing as quickly as he could, he was surprised to find out how well they fitted. Grabbing his clothes, he tossed them onto the picnic blanket as he made his way towards the lake. Stepping into the lake, he was surprised how cold it was. Slowly lowering himself into the water, he let out a gasp with wide eyes.

Kicking off from the edge, he began swimming out into the lake, where he found girlfriend circling him on her back. She exited her position and approached him, her arms looping around his neck and legs around his stomach. He suddenly felt glad the water was so cold. Holding him tight, he felt her body against his as she connected their lips once more. His arms wrapping around her back as he returned the affection.

"How did you know what size shorts to get?" he mentally asked her, slowly losing himself in her affection.

"We've practically been living together since we set off on our journey," she mentally explained, deepening their kiss, "not to mention we've been sleeping together since the orange league. What kind of girlfriend would I be if I didn't know your clothes sizes... don't you know mine?"

"I-I-I..." he stuttered, pulling away from their kiss, "I mean, I think I know your dress size b-but... I'm pretty sure I'm meant to take three numbers off it."

"Hehehe, guess you have learnt somethings about being a boyfriend," she giggled cutely, pulling herself up so her chest was above the water's surface. Ash tried incredibly hard to focus on her eyes more and less about her ever-present developments, "but don't you know my other sizes?"

"I-erm-I..." Ash stuttered, his flusterment trying. She giggled and pecked his lips once more.

"Sometimes you can be a real gentlemen," she replied, "but it would be hypocritical of me to blame you for looking at me in such a way."

She kissed him a couple more times.

"Listen Ash... I've-" she paused; her head downturned as was her gaze. Her chin pressed close to her body as she began chewing on her lower lip. She gave a swift glance up but kept eye contact to a minimum. Swallowing hard, she continued in a whisper, "I've got something to tell you."

"Yeah?" he asked, rubbing had hand up and down her back, trying to comfort her best he could.

"Well," she paused, circling her finger around one of his shoulders, "I... I kinda had an eye test done. After the opening ceremony... and... and I need to wear glasses. I-I've got an appointment to pick up my glasses after the final match."

She quickly pushed her lips back into his, more forcibly. Following with a fluster of kisses.

His mind went blank as he tried to registrar what she just said. When he did, he couldn't help but chuckle, causing Serena to stop her little swarm of affection.

"What's so funny?" she asked.

"It's just... you needed to get into a bikini just to tell me that," he chuckled, "it's really cute... adorable, actually."

She planted her head in between his neck and shoulder, rolling around as if trying to bury her ever-blushing composure. Some incoherent mumbles came from her, but her reaction caused him to chuckle all the more.

"It's nothing to be embarrassed about," he reassured, using his own head to try and move her into a proper conversation. Placing a small kiss on her cheek, "I find it kinda funny. Like you was worried I wouldn't find you just as beautiful as I do now."

"Well-" she struggled to find the next words.

"Nothing could make me stop loving you, Serena," he reassured, "and if I've learnt anything. You look great in anything." He placed another kiss on her cheek before moving his mouth next to her ear to whisper, "especially bikini's."

"Thank you, Ashy," she replied, "and I'm glad because I've brought three-others for our trip to Hoenn."

"Why so many?" he asked.

"Because Hoenn is known for their beaches," she explained, "and I really like that look you have whenever I wear one... so since that's sorted... wanna make out?"

"How could I ever turn down that offer?" he asked.

Both giggling as they learned in for another kiss.


Ash took a deep breath, the fresh air filling his nostrils as he stood in the corridor leading out to the field. His best buddy down by his feet, offering a friendly thumbs up. He could hear the distant echo of the crowd in the stand above him. His heart beating like crazy. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath once more, trying to calm his nerves. Every second feeling like another hour passing.

After the great date with Serena last night, he felt revitalised and ready. A smile formed on his face as specific memories returned although short lived as-

"Good morning ladies, gentlemen, children and Pokémon of all species!" the announcer's voice echoed among the cheering crowd, "this is the first of the two battles today, seeing which of our top four finalists shall be moving on from here! First today we have Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!"

Taking this as his cue and walked out onto the field. Using his hand to block the blinding sun, he stepped up to his trainers' box as the crowd cheered. Pikachu climbed up his body to stand high on his shoulder, waving to the crowd. Smiling at his best buddy, he decided to join him, waving to the crowd as well.

"Ash has proven to be a fan favourite during this competition for his combination of strength and kindness!" the announcer continued, "and as the winner of the last Orange League, it's no surprise why! But now it's time to see his opponent, a long-time rival of our first trainer and the son of Kanto's champion. Also, as the grandson of the renowned Professor Oak! He already defeated Ketchum's brother earlier in the Silver Conference so it's sure to look like a battle between the prides of Pallet! Its Gary Oak!"

He watched the brown-haired boy walk out with the corner of his mouth flicked up in a smirk. It was almost reminiscent of the days where he was an arrogant kid who thought his name brought him power. As their eyes locked, Gary taking his spot on his trainers' box, it soon became clear that it was more of a happy expression rather than one of arrogance. As they waited, the field raised up to reveal several rock pillars sticking out of the field between them.

"And it looks like the field will be our rock field for the first half of this battle between our two Pallet Town trainers!" the announcer explained, "So let's get this battle underway and pass it over to our referee for this match to explain the rules to our competitors!"

"This will be a six on six battle between our two trainers, either side can make substitutions at any point and there is no time limit. Both sides have registered their teams beforehand but can use them in any order they like," the ref explained, he raised his hand up to gesture to the score board above. The two images of Ash and Gary took turns with a light flashed between the two images before ultimately landing on Ash's face, "and Ash shall reveal his Pokémon first. Once one side loses three Pokémon, we'll take an intermission and swap the field."

Unclipping his Pokéball from his belt, Ash knew he had the perfect starter for this field. Enlarging the device in his hand, he tossed it high into the air, "I choose you, Sandslash!"

In a flash of light, his ground burst out and slammed onto the rock field. His eyes scanned around the cheering crowd as the corner of his mouth flicked up in a snarl. Ash knew he wasn't one for crowds, it's something they have in common but once the battle starts, they can refocus both of their attentions.

"And Ketchum makes a smart move by going with his ground type on this rock field!" the announcer explained, "we saw Sandslash back in Ketchum's run of last year's Orange League. Even if not against the champion, he proved to be a powerful opponent taking on a water type by himself! Who will Oak use in response?"

"I thought you'd bring your Sandslash for this battle Ashy-boy," Gary smirked, enlarging a Pokéball in his hand and holding it out, "which is why I brought my Pupitar! Go!"

In a flash of red light, Gary's rock ground appeared on the field. It was some sort of being encased inside a thick greyish-blue shell. Its red eyes could be seen through two holes in the shell, and two more holes directly above resembling eyebrows. The upper portion of its body was covered by a mask-like plate with four large spikes on either side. Three additional spikes protrude from its forehead. Despite Serena having one, Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a refresher:

Pupitar, The Hard Shell Pokémon. The evolved form of Larvitar. Pupitar creates a gas inside its body that it compresses and forcefully ejects to propel itself like a jet. The body is very durable-it avoids damage even if it hits solid steel.

"And Gary goes with a surprise choice of Pokémon in his Pupitar!" the announcer explained, "it certainly matches the field as a rock ground type but its weak to Sandslash whose a pure ground type! What could the Oak lad be planning when he has the advantage of going second? Only one way to find out!"

"Sandslash verses Pupitar," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round one

Smirking, the chocolate-eyed boy watched as his ground type curled up into a ball. Spinning in a straight line, he quickly crossed the field and slammed into the Hard Shell Pokémon. He deflected off and rolled away, picking up speed as he curved around. Pupitar falling onto his face.

"Curse!" Gary shouted.

Pupitar began to glow as it picked its body back up.

Sandslash continued to roll and slammed back into him. Pupitar stood his ground as Sandslash bounced off.

"Keep it up!" Gary added.

Pupitar continued to glow as Sandslash rolled away once more. Ash's eyes widened in realisation at what was happening.

"Stop Rollout Sandslash!" Ash shouted, "Pupitar's using it to set up! We need to end this quickly!"

Sandslash, who was curving around the field once more, jumped into the air. His body uncurled as his eyes clouded over. A ton of sand seeped out of the ground and trapped Pupitar in place. As soon as one curse ended, he started another.

Landing on the ground, he stuck his claws into the ground. Running across the field and up the Sand Tomb, his claws dug up the earth behind him.

Reaching the peak of the mini mountain, he swiped the first claw across Pupitar. Revealing his now metal covered claws. He quickly followed up with more slashes. Each claw, one after another, slamming down across the rock ground type.

Pupitar grunted as a layer of sweat formed on his forehead. The light of curse faded and at last, he didn't instantly start another.

"If your fully powered up, Pupitar, then test out your new strength!" Gary commanded.

As a claw came down on top of the rock ground type, a series of black lights flashed. Sandslash was thrown backwards down the sand pile.

Skidding to a stop, he used his claw by sticking it into the sand tomb. He pushed himself up and growled threateningly.

"Let's switch to Poison Jab!" Ash called out, "if we can poison him, then it'll set a limit!"

Sandslash growled something and began charging up the sandpile. Running like a wild animal, his claws began to glow purple.

Leaping over, he thrusted himself back down on the hard-shell Pokémon. The ground type restarted his assault, slashing away at his opponent. Gary's Johto native Pokémon grunted and closed one eye. Ash felt himself jump with excitement but a glance at his rival turned friend made him stop-

Gary was watching his Pokémon with an intense stare. The corner of his mouth flicked up into a typical smirk. Pupitar glew white.

Sandslash was thrown backwards as the bright blur expanded in size. Easily tripling in size, a pair of arms and legs grew.

When the glowing stopped, the now bipedal, newly evolved Pokémon was revealed. Green armor-like covering his body. Two pairs of pointed teeth which were revealed as he roared loudly. Several spikes of varying sizes protrude from the back of his head, neck, and shoulders. Both sides of his chest, the centre of its back and his knees had two triangular holes. There was a grey, diamond-shaped patch of scales covering its belly, and a smaller one on its back. Each hand and foot had three claws with a ring of spikes surrounding the tip of his tail.

With his roar, the sand tomb blew up from beneath him. A whirlwind blew around and a sandstorm roared across the field.

Having to block his eyes from Tyranitar's weather, Ash reached to his belt.

"Return!" Ash recalled his ground type, the red light reaching him just in time.

"Ash has recalled his Sandslash," the referee declared, "he must pick which Pokémon he wants to continue this match with."


Struggling to see through the sandstorm, Ash clipped his ground types Pokéball to his belt. He was hardly doing anything to him as a Pupitar so no point in letting Sandslash lose when he could be useful later on. His hand hovered between two different Pokéballs. He pulled out his Pokedex for a refresher:

Tyranitar, The Armor Pokémon. The final evolved form of Larvitar. Tyranitar is so overwhelmingly powerful, it can bring down a whole mountain to make its nest. This Pokémon wanders about in mountains seeking new opponents to fight. Special reserves have been set up to help protect this endangered species.

"With a surprise evolution, Gary takes advantage with his powered up Tyranitar controlling the field and forcing his opponent into rethinking his strategy," the announcer explained, "now to wait and see which Pokémon Ash has to handle this sort of challenge!"

Putting the device away, he sighed but quickly shook his head. Moving his hand back towards his belt, his hand hovered between two Pokéballs. He quickly dismissed the idea of using his main powerhouse this early on, which leaved these two options. Alakazam and Snorlax.

Both had the positives and negatives in this match up. Alakazam had a clear weakness against the dark type but he had a strong move in Focus Blast to use against it. His hidden ability Magic Guard would also help with handling the sandstorm but if what he did to Sandslash was any indication, one good hit and Alakazam would be down. Snorlax doesn't have nearly as many options but has raw strength to match and he could take a lot more punishment.

Snatching the device off his belt, he shut his eyes as he launched it forward, "I choose you, Snorlax!"

He felt the earth shake as his normal type slammed onto the field. He could barely hear him over the raging sandstorm. Even the crowd was barely audible as he felt himself getting blown over. Just because the audience are protected in the stands, doesn't mean the competing trainers are.

"And Ketchum has chosen to substitute his Sandslash for his Snorlax!" the announcer explained, "but one has to wonder how he plans to deal with the current sandstorm raging on! This is going to be his real challenge, along with communication, of course!"

Ash couldn't help but feel sorry for his normal type, this sandstorm is next to impossible to see through for himself so it's only imaginable how difficult it is to watch through the heart of the storm. Of course, whichever Pokémon he went with would have to contend with this issue. Even Alakazam, due to Tyranitar's dark type, he couldn't just track him using his psychic abilities.

"Snorlax versus Tyranitar," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round two

Serena squinted from her seat, trying to make out either of the Pokémon from within the sandstorm - but from this high up, all she could see was the faintest tint of dark blue which she assumed was Snorlax. The roaring winds didn't help either, drowning out any other noise. Even if they have psychic types protect them from the attacks in the audience, the speaker system passed on the audible ruckus from the field.

"I can't see anything," she groaned.

A powerful beam shot out of the sky, sort of resembling a Hyper Beam. Although she couldn't tell who it belonged two. Snorlax definitely knew that attack but it was just as likely Tyranitar also does.

A loud roar echoed out of the storm, but no major changes could be seen. Glancing towards the big screen for a better shot and it was just as unclear.

After a few seconds, the camera switched to a better shot. The two silhouettes of the Pokémon could be seen through the sandstorm.

Tyranitar was in a defensive position, crossed arms in front of his face as Snorlax punches out. Landing each hit, but none seemed to pack a big punch.

"Gary was cleaver how he started off this battle," Brock mused, "he prepared Tyranitar for that overload of power."

"What do you mean, Brock?" Delia asked.

"He set him up with Curse as a Pupitar," Brock explained, "when a Pokémon evolves, it boosts them to new levels of strength and gives them a second wind and some of those boosts could be hard for the Pokémon to handle."

"Like Ash's Dragonite when she first evolved," Serena interjected.

"Right, and as another pseudo legendary, Tyranitar would normally have similar difficulties," Brock nodded, "but Curse helped prepare him for that boost by maxing out both his attack and defence. Now Ash is going to have to think of something quick or Tyranitar could quickly end this first half, all by himself."

"Alright Snorlax, we're gonna have to go all or nothing!" Ash's voice echoed through the speakers, "start off with Belly Drum!"

The sandstorm continued to swirl around as the she tried to peer through it. A red light appeared within the sand followed by an angry snore-roar.

She turned towards the main screen which showed a much clearer image. Snorlax charged forward and delivered a glowing punch straight into the face. He made several more swift punches into the rock dark types body.

The armor Pokémon crossed his arms over his chest, slowly being knocked back by the force. His tail slammed into the ground, stopping him.

A black outline surrounded his body. Returning the punches, he knocked the normal type back.

Tyranitar took a deep breath. A bright flash appeared within the sandstorm.

A powerful beam shot out of the sandstorm. It smashed into the wall, fading into nothing. Turning towards the monitor above the field, it revealed Snorlax flat on his back with swirls in his eyes. The ref pressed his finger to his ear, clearly receiving confirmation thanks to his presumably lack of vision.

"Snorlax is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Gary and his Tyranitar!"


Ash sighed as he reached for his Pokéball, recalling his fallen normal type. Snorlax was one of his strongest Pokémon in terms of rawr strength. He used him early on because he wasn't exactly strategic, but those power boosts made it pretty one sided. What he really needs to do right now is get rid of this sandstorm and there is only one way he has to do that.

"Gary takes the first victory in this battle and his Tyranitar has complete control over this field!" the announcer explained, "so the question is, how does Ketchum plan on over coming this powerhouse and the roaring sandstorm? Only one way to find out!"

"I choose you, Dragonite!" Ash shouted.

In a flash of light, his mighty dragon appeared on the field. He could barely make her out through the sandstorm thanks to her orange scales making her blend in. He knew that she would be able to handle herself and know what to do but he was ready to recall her should things go sideways. Knowing what the physiotherapist said about her recovery after the battle with Hunter J's Salamence.

"And Ash has brought out his Dragonite to try and match Gary's Tyranitar!" the announcer explained among the cheering crowd, "both of these Pokémon are known as pseudo legendries in their own right! One has more experience while one has got some serious power boosts already set up so it could really go either way! Its sure to be a high action battle suitable of a top four round!"

"Dragonite verses Tyranitar," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round three

A loud roar echoed around, a think black cloud forming overhead. Ash felt a familiar pattern of rain strike his skin. At first, it was a few as his vision was still covered by the sandstorm. As the storm grew bigger and rain became heavy, the sand faded out.

He saw Tyranitar become more visible over the field. The armor Pokémon was shooting a hyper beam high into the sky.

Turning upwards, he saw his mighty dragon carefully flying around. She was avoiding the powerful move, but Ash knew sooner or later she'd tire out.

"Thunder as cover then get in close!" he called out.

With an echoing roar which shook the stadium, a bolt of lightning struck out of the cloud. It engulfed Dragonite, as she was hit by the hyper beam. Shooting down below the explosion, she slammed into the rock dark type.

He skidded against the wet sand covered field. His tail slamming into the ground as they came to a stop. Landing right in front of him, locked hand in hand.

It became obvious that Tyranitar was winning the strength contest. Slowly pushing Dragonite back as he tried to force her down onto one knee.

Letting out another cry, her tail became coated in water. Whipping it around, it slammed into the rock dark types back.

Knocking him off balance, she moved to the side and forced her opponent down onto the ground. Standing up behind him, she lowered her head as her two antennas sparked. Electricity jumped off and covered Tyranitar's body.

As he began trying to stand, static covered his body. Tyranitar was momentarily paused on one knee with the queen looming behind.

"Let's take control of this battlefield, Dragonite!" Ash called out, "disorientate them like they did with the sandstorm!"

Dragonite roared, taking off into the air. Gary's armor Pokémon slowly stood as a series of rocks orbited around him.

Circling around the stadium, Dragonite was slowly picking up speed. A powerful wind blew around in a circle with the rain still hammering down. Mostly water with some left-over sand were brought up in cyclone as Tyranitar was lost in the water twister.

Shooting up through the cloud, his queen was barely visible between the water cyclone and black storm cloud. She took a deep breath.

A massive jet of water shot down straight through the rain cloud and the twister covering the field. The hydro pump smashed into the field and a tsunami erupted around them. A massive wave of water washed over as Ash attempted to stand his ground.

He couldn't.

Washed away, he slammed against the wall of the field. Clearing his eyes from the water, soaking wet and covered in sand, he looked across the field.

First thing he noticed was both Gary and the ref in a similar position. His Dragonite was stood over the downed Tyranitar and grimacing, clearly injured by the power play. His opponent was down for the count.

The ref slowly stood up, wringing the water from his hat. Turning his attention, the field, he raised a hand up in Ash's direction.

"Tyranitar is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Dragonite!"


As he forced himself to his feet, he felt the weight of the water. Part of him wanted to laugh, actually finding the little water ride fun. Reaching his trainers box, he took off both his hat and jacket. Thanks to the sun that was starting to peer through Dragonite's rain cloud, they should dry out pretty fast.

Looking across the field he saw Gary stood with a Pokéball out, recalling his fallen armor Pokémon. Whispering some words to the device, he attached it to his belt. He was smiling but shaking his head, locking eyes with the raven-haired boy, "you sure know how to make a mess, right Ashy-boy."

"Says the one who set up the sandstorm," Ash chuckled.

"Well now it's time for the real battle to begin," he declared, "go Nidoqueen!"

In a flash of light, Gary's poison ground type materialised on the field. A large, blue, bipedal Pokémon with distinct reptilian features stood. Her body was encased with extremely hard scales that serve as excellent protection from most attacks. She had a blunt snout, narrow brown eyes, and large ears with brown insides. A small horn on her forehead, a single spine on each ear, and a line of toxic spikes running down the length of her back. Each hand had three short claws and each foot had two. Her lower jaw, the front of her abdomen, and two plates on her chest were cream coloured. She also had a thick, powerful looking tail. Despite seeing a number of them over his journey, Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan her for a refresher:

Nidoqueen, The Drill Pokémon. The final evolved form of female Nidoran. It pacifies offspring by placing them in the gaps between the spines on its back. The spines will never secrete poison while young are present. For unknown reasons, Nidoqueen's are only able to breed when in the wild, away from humanity unlike most of Pokémon. While less aggressive than their male counterparts, its recommended to approach with caution

Ash reached into his bag, putting his Pokedex away. Moving down to his belt, he held his Ultra Ball open, "return for now, Dragonite."

His female dragon disappeared in a red light, not putting up a fight or complaint. Then again, she never was one who needed to boost her ego by going for as long as physically possible. She also knew of the stipulations placed on her competing. Clipping it back to his belt, his hand went straight over to one of the others. He didn't need to second guess his choice; the guy is probably already mad about being called out early in his first round.

"I choose you, Sandslash!" he shouted.

In a flash of light, the pure ground type appeared on the field. He stepped up and looked at the water dripping off his foot. Slamming his claw down into the ground, he growled angrily... he probably wasn't expecting a semi-water field. Hopefully that anger can be put to good use.

"And Ketchum has brought back his Sandslash for another round!" the announcer explained among the cheering crowd, "he seemed less than pleased when called back against Tyranitar! Let's see if he is ready to be make a comeback! Only one way to find out so hold onto your seats folks!"

"Sandslash verses Nidoqueen," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round four

His very angry ground type ran across the ground, his half-implanted claw spewing the water to the sides. Reaching the foot of their opponent, he ran his claw up in an uppercut slash across her stomach. Adding in his second claw, he began a brutal assault on her... even if her reaction didn't show it.

Nidoqueen remained with the same stoic expression, unflinching as the ground type continued to slash her. She raised up a foot and kicked him away.

Sandslash twisted mid-air and splashed down in the water. Pushing himself up, his face was soaking wet.

Ash became very nervous at his expression. His nostrils were flaring and eyes bulging. The spikes on his back standing up.

"Sandslash, calm down!" he called out, "you'll be no use to anyone if you let the anger win! You need to fight it!"

His pupils glanced to the side, a familiar glint in his eyes. Ash's panic turned to excitement.

The sharp clawed Pokémon leaped forward, rolling up into a ball. Storming across the field, he was intercepted by Nidoqueen's tail. Both went flying to the side, as Sandslash exited his rollout. His claw scrapped across her tail as he spun around. Launching into the air, he landed on poison ground type's head.

Extending both claws they shone in metal under the sun. He began whacking down on her head with all his strength. Despite wincing, she didn't resist.

His pure ground type cried out as his body glew purple. The drill Pokémon reached up and grabbed him. Tossing over the shoulder, he went flying.

"Now time for the secret weapon!" Gary called out.

Nidoqueen took a deep breath, a ball of ice forming at her mouth. With an echoing cry, a beam of ice shot out and flew across the field.

It struck Sandslash mid-air. He cried out in pain splashing down on the shallow ground, skidding away. He came to a stop partly away from Ash, lying on the side with a shivering body.

"We originally planned that as a counter measure for your Dragonite," Gary admitted, "I know what your strongest line up looks like, Ashy-boy. We came up with counters to the real threats. Sandslash, while strong, was one I just had several natural counters to. Nidoqueen being just one of them."

A threatening hiss caught his attention, turning towards his mouse Pokémon, Sandslash was slowly picking himself up. He raised a claw up.

Nidoqueen sent out a second ice beam but it struck the field. Covering a hole in the earth where Sandslash once lay.

"Careful!" Gary called out, "he could come up anywhere Nidoqueen!"

Sand erupted out of the ground, surrounding the ground poison type. The Drill Pokémon struggled as the sand tomb lifted her high above the ground.

A rock-shape shot out of the ground high above the field. Exiting the roll, Sandslash soared across the field. Throwing his body weight down, he landed straight on Gary's female Pokémon. The ground started violent shaking as he pushed her into the sand tomb. Ash dived as did Gary and the ref.

The sand collapsed down. Falling on the ground, Nidoqueen was lying flat on her back with Sandslash stoon on top. He let out a victorious roar!

"Nidoqueen is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Sandslash!"


He smiled at the sight as Sandslash jumped down from the ground poison type. His forehead was dripping in sweat, or maybe it was just the residue water off the field. Luckily, most of the sand dried that up. Despite being a simple rock field, this battle has changed it multiple times.

"And Ketchum takes the lead by defeating Nidoqueen! Gary has lost two Pokémon now while Ash has only lost one, but he has revealed more of his team!" the announcer explained, "we have to wonder though, who will be the next ones to appear for this action-packed battle!"

Gary finished recalling his fallen Drill Pokémon, already having switched Pokéballs. He smiled as he looked across the field, "well Ashy-boy, it seems I might've underestimated Sandslash. I was certain the water, little of it there was, would've made him lose control. I won't be caught off guard again, go Arcanine!"

In a flash of light, his loyal fire type appeared on the field. He was a quadrupedal, canine Pokémon with an orange pelt marked by jagged black stripes. He had diamond-shaped ears with beige insides, black eye, a round, black nose, and two pointed teeth protruding from his upper jaw. His head, muzzle, and chest are covered in shaggy, beige fur, except for two oval sections around each eye and ear. Long tufts of fur grew behind his elbows and also around his ankles. His underside was black, and he had a billowing, beige tail that was bent in the middle. Each paw had three-toes and a round, pink pad. Taking a deep breath, knowing this was one of Gary's strongest Pokémon, Ash pulled out his Pokedex:

Arcanine, The Legendary Pokémon. The final evolved form of Growlithe. Arcanine is known for its high speed. It is said to be capable of running over six-thousand-two-hundred miles in a single day and night. The fire that blazes wildly within this Pokémon's body is its source of power. In the olden days, these Pokémon were the main fighters in many region-wide wars. Which is what lead to their classification as legendary

Turning his attention towards his own Pokémon, he put the device away. He knew not to take Gary lightly and despite having a type advantage, he must've had a reason for choosing Arcanine. Then again, Sandslash would likely put up a fight to being pulled back once again. Looking at his ground type, the poison was starting to have an effect. It might not be the best play but it's the one his mouse Pokémon won't to take.

"And it seems that Ketchum has decided to stick with his Sandslash while Oak went with his powerful Arcanine!" the announcer explained, "its sure to be a power battle as these two have proven multiple occasions! So, hold onto your seat folks!"

"Sandslash verses Arcanine," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round five

His pure ground type ran forward, curling into a ball as he sped across the ground. Kicking up loose sand and puddles as he powered on.

Arcanine leaped from his position, easily jumping over him. He landed and turned on a heel, turning towards him.

Sandslash made a small leap, also turning to speed along towards the fire type.

The legendary Pokémon landed on the floor and launched a flame thrower across the ground. It struck the rolling ground type and sent him flying back with a cry of pain. As the flames vanished, it revealed a whole in the sandy-gravel field.

Shooting off from his position, Arcanine took large leaps as a powerful earthquake shook the ground. Twirling over the hole, he launched another flame.

Across the field, a fire ball erupted out of the earth. Shooting high into the sky, like a shooting star.

Gary's pure fire type landed once more and turned towards the fireball as it revealed Sandslash. He was badly burnt but extended both claws, diving towards him claws first. A third flame thrower shot up and he slashed down through the attack.

A powerful fire ball travelled up the stream. Reaching the claws, it exploded in a fiery symbol for fire.

Ash's pure ground type fell out of the fire blast, landing flat on the ground, charred and smoking. He weakly pushed himself up, before collapsing in a heap.

"Sandslash is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Gary and his Arcanine!"


"Thanks buddy, you did a great job," Ash told his ground type as he vanished in a red light.

He truly meant what he said. Not about the battling, he always was a tough battler but he more so meant the way that he responded to the water on the field, even if angered, he is getting a lot better at controlling and channelling that anger... he might not be able to get over his issues completely but at least he's got a better hold on it. Smiling, he attached the device back to his belt.

Turning his attention back to the field, he saw the strong fire type stood in front of his rival-turned-friend. He held himself with a stoic, postured stance like a guard on duty. His mind hovered over his Pokéballs, trying to decide who to use. The obvious choice would be Dragonite as she is one of his strongest battlers even with her current limitations but after her first bout, he needs her to take a good rest. Luckily, he has a generalist able to handle most opponents.

"I choose you, Alakazam!" he shouted, tossing his Pokéball into the air.

In a flash of light, his pure psychic type appeared on the field. He tightly gripped his spoons, eyes narrowed as he carefully studied the legendary Pokémon in front of him. Ash smiled as he knew that Alakazam was hardly in need of assistance.

"And now it comes down to a matchup between brain and brawn as Ketchum brings out his Alakazam!" the announcer explained, "we've never seen him with this particular Pokémon but rumour has it he made a trade with his girlfriend, a top coordinator who showcased a powerful Kadabra when she took on the chateau challenge in Kanto! One things for sure, we're in for a treat with this final round before the intermission!"

"Alakazam verses Arcanine," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round six

A bright flash blinded the raven-haired boy as a flame thrower shot towards them. Alakazam lifted both his arms up as the spoons radiated with ESP. A shimmering blue light hit the flames, redirecting them straight up into the air.

The large orange Pokémon charged forward, disappearing in the blink of an eye. He smashed into the psi Pokémon, sending him flying.

Heading straight for the wall, he too disappeared in a flash. Reappearing directly above Arcanine, sending a shadow ball straight down.

Alakazam slowly landed back on the ground as Arcanine was blasted backwards. His eyes stern as his opponent dug underground.

Cracks appeared on the floor beneath the pure psychic type. He disappeared in a flash as Arcanine shot up back onto the field.

Reappearing in front the large fire type, Gary smirked in the background. His pure fire type shot forward, disappearing from sight once more. He reappeared right in front of the Psi Pokémon, who raised his spoons to deflect him off. Arcanine opened his mouth, shrouded by dark type energy.

Unaffected by the psychic attack, he took a crunch out of his opponent. Sending him flying across the field.

Smashing into the ground, Arcanine turned on a heel and leaped after his new chew toy. Bursting into flames as he soared over the field.

Knowing he wasn't quick enough to dodge, Alakazam teleported moments before his opponent crashed where he once was. Alakazam reappeared to the side.

Stood up right, he quickly powered up a flurry of shadow balls. The three shot off and slammed into Arcanine's side, sending him flying across the field.

Arcanine smashed into the wall on the side of the field, slumping down he quickly attempted to push himself back up.

Alakazam landed and raised both spoons, trapping his opponent in a psychic hold. The fire type struggled to no-avail. Levitating himself to the same height as his capture, Alakazam formed several golden balls of ESP. The psyshock shot and struck, never letting up on the force.

When they stopped, he moved closer to inspect Gary's Pokémon. After a few seconds, he released the psychic hold and dropped the fire type.

The ref moved closer as Alakazam landed next to the raven-haired boy. Raising a flag in Ash's direction, the green-dressed official made his judgement.

"Arcanine is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round and the trainer leading into the second half, Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town."


Drake stood at one of the exits from the stands back to the main stadium. His Marowak stood by his side. Looking around he saw several people standing, probably to use the restroom or get some food during the break. Sighing, his eye drifted over Ash's other friends, they were sat in the section specified to friends and family. They were easy enough to spot, and he was just glad he could blend into the crowd.

Glancing down at his ground type, he wondered inside of building just so they weren't blocking the exit. Walking around a corner he leaned against the wall and sighed. His ground type looked at him with an annoyed expression on his face.

"What now?" he asked.

"Maro Marowak," he replied.

"I told you, I had to lie about the Raikou thing," he replied, "Ash would've just kept nagging otherwise."

"Marowak!" he yelled.

"You know I need to start fresh," he sighed, "get away from it all."

"Wak," he deadpanned.

"Fine. Get away from them, all," he spat, "... Ash's friends. I could never have relationships like that. This whole mess with Leaf, it put me and Ash back on rocky terms just as we are starting to look the other way."

"Marowak Maro," Marowak leaned against the wall.

"Look bud, we don't know what were up against... as chosen's, I mean," he explained, "so we need to be our best versions of ourselves. For Ash, that's having his friends around. He performs best when he needs to save them, and I can't make him choose by being around and causing rifts between them."

"Maro?" he asked.

"My best self?" Drake asked, "I don't know what that is. I don't think I've found it yet or if I have... I shouldn't be a chosen. Hopefully, this new adventure in Unova will help me find it... and of course, I'll need my partner by my side to do so."

His ground type smirked at that statement.

"And we're back!" the announcer declared, "we've already ran the dice, and the second half will be ran on a savannah field!"

Turning back towards the direction they came, he started to walk back over to the seating area. Marowak close by his side.


Walking back out into the stadium, the loud crowd roared as he walked out to his trainers' box and looking across the plain field, as he saw Gary return. A smile overtook his face as the thrill of the battle returned. It didn't take long for either of them to return to their position.

He watched as the new field raised up from the ground. It consisted of a sand-based field with large grass which reached up to his knees. A couple large trees put a lot of the field in shadows. Ash slide his jacket off and tied it around his waist. Maybe it was the warm orange-brown and light green colours, but he felt like he was back on those hot desert islands in the Orange Archipelago. He ran his hand through his hair as the ref took his position.

"The battle shall resume with the same rules as before," the ref declared, "as Ash started the first half with his choice, this time Gary shall be the one to reveal his Pokémon first!"

"Go Scizor!" Gary shouted.

In a flash of light, the bug steel type appeared. He was a bipedal, insectoid Pokémon with a bright red, metallic exoskeleton. He has grey, retractable forewings burst out, which had a simple, curved venation. His head was almost kite-shaped with three blunt horns extending above his forehead, which also house his dark yellow eyes. Scizor's neck and part of his thorax give the appearance of being exposed: they showed black skin and were surrounded by his raised exoskeleton. Despite the tall grass mostly covering his lower body, his large abdomen with three black, pointed stripes below the waist. He had broad shoulders and thin, segmented arms ending in large, round pincers. Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a quick refresher:

Scizor, The pincer Pokémon. The final evolved form of Scyther. Bulky pincers account for one third of Scizor's body weight. A single swing of one of these pincers will crush a boulder completely. These are some of the most formidable hunters in the forests which they make home

Putting his device away, Ash went over his four remaining Pokémon. Dragonite was the only one with somewhat of a type advantage but even then, not as strong as it could be. One downside of her specialising in water over fire. Pikachu could also do well, but he has made it clear who he wants to fight. Out of all of them, Alakazam has the biggest weakness to the pincer Pokémon but because of his large move pool, he also has the best options against him.

"I'm gonna need your help again, buddy," he whispered to the Pokéball, tossing it up into the air, "I choose you, Alakazam!"

In a flash of light, his psi Pokémon reappeared on the field and stood tall. Scizor snapped his pincers in a threatening manner but the psychic type only narrowed his eyes and tightened his grip on his spoons. Clearly unintimidated by his opponent.

"And Ketchum makes a surprising move by sticking with his Alakazam despite facing a bug type in Scizor!" the announcer explained over the cheers, "so question is, what could he be planning?"

"Alakazam verses Scizor!" the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round seven

His pure psychic type formed a shadow ball, launching it across the field. As soon as it left, he formed another, rapid firing at least five.

Dodging to the side, Scizor ran forward, he swerved through the barrage. Reappearing in front of Alakazam, his claws shone in a metal as he slammed them repeated into his opponent. Moving incredibly, he delivered several punches and showed no sign of stopping.

Grimacing and crippling over, Alakazam disappeared in a flash of light.

Scizor turned around, his claws glowing black with a purple out line. He shot off in a random direction.

Alakazam reappeared. Being slammed into by the bug steel type. He was thrown into the wall with a powerful pursuit.

"Fun fact, Ashy-boy, Teleport can result in the same power-up Pursuit gets when hitting a target being recalled," Gary informed with a smirk.

His Scizor closed the distance, powering up an X-Scissor in the process. Smashing it into the downed Psi Pokémon, he kicked off into the air.

"But how did you know where Alakazam would reappear?"

His pure psychic type struggled to his feet, panting heavily. A multicoloured glow covering his body. A strong wind filled with bug type energy pushing back.

"I got that from his battle with Arcanine," Gary informed, "I knew he would've had some tell but I was never close enough to figure it out. He looks at his destination before teleporting. Only for a split second but its long enough. During the intermission, I told Scizor about it, so he'd be prepared."

The pincer Pokémon slammed down on top of the psychic type, delivering another brutal assault with Bullet Punch. Cancelling the recover heal.

Wrapping his pincer around the Psi Pokémon's neck, it glew white and lifted him off the ground. Charging forward, they soared over the field and smashed through one of the trees. Coming to an end at the field wall. Scizor dropped his opponent and glided back to his trainer, stood tall and waiting.

"Alakazam is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round Gary and his Scizor!"


Silently, Ash recalled his psychic type. He had been so certain that his Psi Pokémon was smart enough to handle himself, he let his guard down. The problem with intelligence is they often forget about the basics and focus on high threats. That lead to Alakazam not covering his own shortcomings.

"Thank you, Alakazam, your loss won't be in vain," he whispered as he put the device back onto his belt.

"And Oak makes quick work of Alakazam, evening the score back to three - three!" the announcer explained, over the cheering crowd, "so the question is, who will Ketchum bring out to take down this monstrous bug of his opponent?"

His hand hovered over the two remaining Pokéballs as his eyes locked on Pikachu. He is almost certain he knows Gary's last two Pokémon, those being his starter and Umbreon. Pikachu called dibs on the latter. While he could handle Scizor, it's not without risk and he doesn't exactly have a sure-fire strategy against him... Dragonite could out power him but if he's right then he'll need her strength to handle Blastoise. His last option is possibly the worst possible choice to face a bug steel type, but he does have a surprise which could give him the edge. With his choice made, he unclipped the device off his belt.

"I choose you, Muk!" Ash shouted, tossing his device into the air.

In a flash of light, the pure poison type slammed onto the savannah field. Despite the grass being much taller than himself, his body squashed all of the nearby greenery which made him pretty obvious. Extending his body upwards, he let out a grimy, monstrous cry.

"Muk?" Gary asked, "b-but what about Aerodactyl, Venusaur... or Primeape?"

"Why those two?" Ash asked, "I mean, I did consider both of them. Dragonite even insisted I bring Venusaur but Primeape already battled in the caged matches. And Aerodactyl against Vincent, remember. My gut just told me that Muk was the right choice out of those who haven't battled yet."

"Of course, it did," Gary shook his head with a smile on his face, "you're really one of a kind, Ashy-boy. I come up with counters, strategies and even secondary counters to your strongest Pokémon like Sandslash, Alakazam, even Aerodactyl... not once did I consider your enact ability to surprise."

"Are you scared of Muk, Gary?" Ash asked.

"More about what he could do," he replied, "Gramps told me about the incident with the TM cabinet. I know he could use a lot of moves, some even he might not realise yet. And my only real counter on this team would've been Nidoqueen. Never mind, we can still pull this out, right Scizor!"

The pincer Pokémon snapped his claws and let out a loud battle cry.

"And Ketchum makes a surprise move by bringing out a poison type against Oak's bug steel type!" the announcer explained, "normally this type couldn't hit his opponent but as we've seen from both trainers, things are hardly this predictable so hold onto your seats folks!"

"Muk verses Scizor," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round eight

He watched his opponent skim across the grass line, pincers coated in metal. He slammed into the sludge Pokémon, delivering a flurry of Bullet Punches.

Muk extended upwards, taking the assault on his stomach. Puffing his would-be chest out, he deflected the pincer Pokémon, who stumbled back.

"Ice Punch!" Ash shouted.

Muk clenched his fist and it coated in ice. Shooting it forward, he sent the bug steel type to the ground.

Scizor spun onto his stomach and shot forward, disappearing into the grass line. He shot up into the sky, lights dancing around as Swords Dance increased his strength. Reaching an apex above the field, he formed an X-Scissor and dived down on the poison type.

Sinking into the earth, a shadow formed and disappeared under the grass. Their opponent smashing into the ground, leaving a creator.

Jumping out of the ground, Muk made a small leap and landed on the pincer Pokémon. Letting out a victorious cry as he smothered the bug steel type.

Punches erupted through his body, stretching it as the sludge Pokémon let out groans of pain. He was lift up into the air and held up by his opponent, who was glowing with a red outline. Using his pure physical strength, he sent the sludge Pokémon flying.

Raising up into the air, Scizor's expandable wings shot out and sent a wind flying down. His poison type grimaced at the impact but landed on the ground.

A red outline surrounded the pincer Pokémon once more. He shot down on the pure poison type with tremendous momentum.

"Fire Blast now!" Ash roared!

Muk looked up and took a deep breath as his opponent closed in. The bug steel type attempted to re-direct upwards but was too slow. A powerful flame burst out of the sludge Pokémon's mouth. It engulfed their opponent who cried out in pain. A lot of the grass caught fire along with it and burnt out, leaving a wide circle in the middle of the field. Scizor collapsed in middle of the new mark, swirls replacing his eyes.

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


Ash smiled as his poison quickly slivered across the field, a joyful expression on his face. Leaping up to the trainer's box, he found himself flat on his back and being smothered by the sludge Pokémon. He laughter happily as he struggled under the embrace.

"Cuddle! Cuddle!" Muk cried out.

"And Ketchum makes a quick come back by taking out Scizor with a surprised Fire Blast!" the announcer explained, "and it seems the poison type has a soft side to boot. Ketchum once again proving his ability to bond with any Pokémon, even the most unlikely of species!"

Looking up from his position, he turned towards the field where he saw Gary kneeling next to his fallen bug steel type. Returning his fallen Pokémon, he made his way back to the trainer's box, switching Pokéballs as he did. Turning around once in position, he tossed the new device into the air.

"Go Umbreon!" Gary shouted.

In a flash of light, the dark type eeveelution landed on the burnt grass. He had a sleek, black body with four slender legs and crimson eyes. He had two pairs of pointed teeth, which became visible as he growled at Muk. He had long, pointed ears which stood on end and a bushy tail, each with a yellow band around them. His forehead and legs also had yellow rings on them. Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a quick reminder:

Umbreon, The Moonlight Pokémon. A final evolved form of Eevee. It lurks in the dark of night looking for prey. At the moment it pounces, the rings on its body glow dimly but ominously.

Putting his device away, he switched it with his Pokéball and recalled his sludge friend, "thanks Muk and rest up. I might need you to make a comeback."

He glanced down to his feet; Pikachu held his light ball in one hand. Placing it next to his stomach, it was absorbed into his belly. Cheeks sparking, he looked up with a devilish grin. Dropping onto all fours, he prepared to leap out onto the field. Ash couldn't help but smirk at the enthusiasm.

"Pikachu... I choose you," Ash shouted.

Like a bolt of lightning, he thundered onto the field. Cheeks sparking as he crouched low. Umbreon also crouched, stalking around in a circle, with the electric type mimicking his actions. Both Pokémon seeming ready to pounce at a moment's notice.

"And this looks like a long-awaited rematch as the two Pokémon face off," the announcer explained, "we're in for a treat with this one folks so watch out!"

"Pikachu verses Umbreon," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round nine

He smiled as his started launched a powerful thunderbolt across the field. It missed the marked as their opponent disappeared into the tall grass. Pikachu ran forward into the grass after him.

It was difficult to make out what was next. Thunderbolts and shadow balls flew out into the sky in seemingly random directions.

Pikachu appeared over the field, doing a forward spin as his tail stuck out, coated in metal. As he began to descend, a dark pulse struck it head on.

The collision launched him high into the air. As a second dark pulse shot upwards towards him. Reaching his apex, Pikachu launched of another thunderbolt.

Smashing together in the middle of the air, they formed a ball of energy. It expand and exploded in all direction. Ripping the remaining tree and grass out of the earth and clearly the field. Both Pokémon landing opposite each other. His electric starter rolling his neck.

"Well now the warmup is over," he smirked, shooting off towards the dark type.

Landing at the eeveelutions foot, he swung his tail to the side. It glew white with an orange tint of fighting type energy.

Umbreon ducked out of the way, brick break soaring overhead. His paw raised and glew black, using it to knock Pikachu to the side.

Taking the foul play in stride, he entered a swift dig underground. Umbreon wasted no time in following the direction downward.

Ash held his breath, unsure what was going on. The earth began to shake, but not as violently as when earthquake had been previously used. However, he knew it wasn't that as neither side knew that particular move. Bolts of lightning shot out of the ground and cracks appeared on the field.

Like a lightning bolt, Pikachu shot out of the ground as the field began to crumble. High above the field, he sent a thunder attack straight down.

It struck the field as it blasted apart. A giant hole forming as a rockslide.

Umbreon appeared jumping from rock to rock, trying to escape the carnage. Making one last leap out of sight, his paw glew black once more.

Pikachu spun as his tail was coated in metal.

The two Pokémon collided with iron tail and foul play, respectively. Seemingly evenly matched as a shockwave from the collision expanded outwards. With his electric type sent flying upward as Umbreon was pushed down. The dark type dug underground once more, Pikachu in front of him.

"Pikachu, do you have a thing for destroying battle fields?" Ash asked.

"How do you know that was me?" he asked, innocently, "it could've just as easily been mister edgy teen down there."

"The lightening," he shrugged, "and it's not the first time either."

"When you got it, flaunt it," Pikachu smirked. A shuffle of field which remained drew their attention as Umbreon shot out, glowing with a healing light from moonlight, "sorry, duty calls."

Charging across the field the two Pokémon entered a swift and close quarters attack. They tried to match brick break with foul play, respectively.

They each avoided their opponent as they slipped around each other. It seemed even then Umbreon used a free paw to knock some sand into Pikachu's eyes.

He trapped the electric type down to the ground with one paw as he loomed over top.

"Maybe when pinkie sees this, she'll realise that she could have a real mon," Umbreon snarled, "instead of just a rodent."

Sparks jumped from his cheeks. Hitting the dark types paw, he stumbled backwards as his entire body was covered in static. Pikachu rolled onto his front.

"Ash!" he called out, "I need you to be my eyes!"

"Well right now he still, slightly to your left," he called out.

Darting forward, he reached the dark type eeveelution and whacked him with a full powered Iron Tail to the face. Landing to the side he shot forward as his body was engulfed in electricity landing a close ranged wild charge. Landing away from him, he buried under ground.

A healing light engulfed his body as Umbreon shot off towards the hole. His paw getting caught in a grass knot, tripping him as the static resumed.

"Finish it with explode-y tail!" Ash shouted.

His electric starter shooting out of the ground his tail glowing with electricity running through it. Spinning it overhead, it became coated in metal as he built up momentum. An orange tint of fighting type energy floated around as he dived down towards the dark type eeveelution.

It smashed down onto his back, engulfing both Pokémon in an explosion. Smoke blurred the vision of everyone.

As it began to fade, the shilluette of Umbreon down on the ground with Pikachu stood on top, he placed both hands next to his mouth and yelled, "who da mon!"

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


His starter walked back over the field, squinting as he did due to the sand still covering his eyes. Sliding the backpack off his bag, he unzipped it and left it on the ground for his pure electric type. Reaching the bag, he took out a water bottle and squirted it over his eyes, clearing them of sand. Placing the bottle away, he shook his head of the water.

"Good job, buddy," Ash smiled, reaching down to scratch him behind the ear. As he cooed under his touch.

"You sound surprised," Pikachu smugly replied, "you know I'm that good."

"And Ketchum makes a larger gap by taking out Oak's Umbreon and bringing the champions son down to his last Pokémon," the announcer explained as the crowd roared, "but Ketchum has used all three of his remaining Pokémon already so it's still anyone's chance to win and move onto the final!"

Looking across the field, he saw Gary quietly returning his fallen dark type eeveelution.

"Go Blastoise!" Gary shouted, releasing his starter.

With a heavy thud, the pure water type, a large, bipedal turtle-like Pokémon landed. His body was blue and mostly hidden by his tough, brown shell. This shell had a cream-coloured underside and a white ridge encircling his arms and separating the upper and lower halves. Two powerful canons extended out of the top of the shell, over his shoulders. Blastoise's head had triangular ears that are black on the inside and small brown eyes, and a cream-coloured lower jaw which opened to let out a battle cry. His arms were thick and had three claws on each hand. His feet had three claws on the front and one on the back and behind was a stubby tail poking out of the bottom of his shell. Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a quick refresher:

Blastoise, The Shellfish Pokémon. The final evolved form of Squirtle. Blastoise has canons that protrude from its shell. A well trained one can have pinpoint accuracy, able to shoot empty cans from a distance of over one-hundred and sixty feet. This makes them effective fire fighters

"Is it only me or is it weird looking at a Blastoise and it not having sunglasses on?" Ash asked, putting his device away.

"The fact he's not spewing one lines is also off putting," Pikachu agreed, "so do I jump straight back out there or will cuddles, or queen take over?"

Smiling, Ash reached for the ultra-ball off his belt. As long as Muk is able to battle, he has a triumph card that Gary confirmed he had no plan on how to defeat. So, when combining Dragonite's strength and Pikachu's type advantage, he is sure they can pull out the win for him. Tossing it into the air, he released his mighty dragon back onto the field, who looked nicely recovered and took up a battle stance against her new opponent.

"It's come down to a power battle between Oak's Blastoise, his starter and sources claim most powerful Pokémon," the announcer explained, "against Ketchum's own powerhouse, Dragonite! While the odds are stacked against him being down to his last option, Gary has a unique opportunity as all of his opponents Pokémon have been revealed and already battled! So, this battle is still anyone's for the taking!"

"Dragonite verses Blastoise," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round ten

His opponent extended his canons and aimed them. Each one launched out a small blast of water out of each. They shot across the field and straight towards his mighty dragon. Despite being small, they were face and clearly powerful.

Dragonite took a deep breath, launching out a dark blue flame of dragon type energy. It intercepted each water blast, destroying them.

Blastoise withdrew into his shell as the dragon breath ran over him. By the time the attack ended, he stood tall against her once more.

"Rain, yes or no?" Dragonite asked.

A powerful ice beam shot out of Blastoise's mouth. It was on a direct course, but she took off to avoid it. Ash wondered why his mouth and not canons.

"I could really use an answer whenever you're ready!" Dragonite roared, firing down a dragon pulse.

It exploded and knocked the water type back. He skidded to a halt, but his ice beam was cancelled.

"Yes! Yes, bring the rain and bring it hard!" Ash shouted.

Ascending higher into the air, she let out an echoing cry as a thick black cloud formed over the stadium. Covering her from view.

A heavy rain began to fall as Blastoise stood tall. His canons extended outward as he was clearly waiting for her reappearance.

Covered in a dark blue flame of dragon type energy. She shot down through the cloud, dark yellow eyes, and a jagged mouth as she dived down.

Gary's starter Pokémon launched out another ice beam from his mouth. It would've struck head on, but she zagged to the side, making a sharp turn as she went to hit straight on. Two powerful blasts of water shot out of his canons, forcing her back up as the dragon rush came to an end.

"And Ketchum makes a risky play by bringing in more rain with his Dragonite!" the announcer explained, "but it seems Blastoise plans on taking just as much of an advantage of the weather! So, question is, who will come out on time!"

Dragonite curved around in the air, as another ice beam attempted to hit her. With a mighty cry, a bolt of lightning engulfed her.

She shot down through the field, taking the ice beam head on. Protected from the ice, the queen thundered down through the air.

Two blasts of water struck her, and an explosion engulfed her. Landing on the ground in front of her opponent, he loomed over top.

Forcing herself up, the two Pokémon became locked as they attempted to push each other down. Ash was relieved that the canons couldn't on but-

"Thunder!" he shouted, panic filling his voice.

She let out a loud roar, a massive bolt of lightning erupting out of the rain cloud. Both Pokémon were struck by the blast.

As the electricity fizzled out, the two opponents were still locked hand to hand, but one seemed in much better condition than the other. Ash sighed in relief, only for his eyes to widened in fear.

Blastoise launched another ice beam from his mouth, which struck the mighty dragon in the chest. She was sent flying over the field, slamming into the side.

A veil of water overflowed through his shell, forming a ball around him. A healing light covered the water starter.

Turning his attention towards his own Pokémon, he saw Dragonite pushing herself up with ice covering her chest. Before he could call out and make sure she was alright, a loud buzzer sounded. Looking towards the ref, he had one finger to his ear, as if receiving information from, raising an arm in Gary's direction.

"Dragonite has been declared unable to continue, through a T.K.O or technical knockout," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Gary and his Blastoise!"


Looking across the field, he saw Dragonite struggling back to her feet. Her eyes were narrowed, and her nostrils were flaring, she was clearly angry, but he wasn't certain if her anger was at her opponent or the judgement call. Deciding he didn't want to risk his standing or her temper, he pulled out his Ultra ball.

"Return and rest up, Dragonite," Ash told her. Clipping the device back to his belt.

"And Oak makes a comeback by taking out the powerhouse that Ketchum brought to this battle!" the announcer explained, "so the question is, how will Ketchum respond and will the combination of his Muk and Pikachu be enough to stop this massive force of a Blastoise?!"

"You up to get back out there, buddy?" Ash asked, looking down at his starter.

"I'm insulted you have to ask," Pikachu smirked, crouching low and sparking his cheeks.

"Then Pikachu," he took a deep breath, flipping his cap around and pointing across the field, "I choose you!"

Bolting out onto the field, water continued to fall over the two starters. His cheeks sparked and tail stuck in the ground as Gary's pure water type extended his canons and let out a ground shaking battle cry. The two Pokémon locked eyes as time came to a halt.

"Pikachu verses Blastoise," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"


Ash verses Gary: Round eleven

His electric starter zipped across the field, splashing puddles on the ground as he leaped from on slab to the next.

Two blasts of water shot towards him, blowing up chunks of earth and water. Pikachu leaped through the two jets; his tail coated in metal. Slamming it onto the top of the pure water type's head. Launching himself into the air, he curled up into a ball.

A bolt of lightning engulfed him, and a smaller bolt of lightning shot out.

Withdrawing into his shell, he was zapped by thunder bolt. Ending his attack, Pikachu landed on his back legs. The turtle Pokémon began spinning and shot across the field straight for the mouse Pokémon.

Bolting off in the opposite direction, Pikachu buried his way underground and out of sight.

Blastoise exited his rapid spin over the newly dug hole. Taking a deep breath, he fired a water gun out of his mouth and down through the hole.

Across the field, Pikachu broke through the field, in a geyser of water. Slamming down on his back.

"Ya see, Ash's boy. Any long-range attack can be used from his canons but not all can be from his head," Gary explained, "Blastoise likes to keep his canons free for those big attacks so if he can use his head, he will. Plus, his head has more manuverability."

A bolt of electricity shot across the field. The pure water type barely had time to withdraw into his shell.

As the electricity faded, Pikachu was revealed running across the field with incredible speed. Blastoise span towards him, slower and with a grey outline.

Reaching his opponent, Pikachu leaped over head. Summoning brick break through his tail, it struck the shell and he landed behind him. The water type taking a wide bearth as he attempted to redirect. Pikachu wasted no time in running away from the larger than life shell.

"Pikachu, I have a real bad idea!" Ash called out.

The mouse starter reached the side of the wall. He backed up as the water type shot towards him. With Blastoise closing in, he darted along the wall.

"Please tell me it's not me blowing myself up with my tail!" Pikachu cried out, "again!"

He came to a stop and tried to launch a thunder bolt at the gyro ball. It hit but seemed useless and Blastoise continued onward.

"No... I'm not sure that would work, be completely honest," Ash replied, "his shell is very sturdy! We need to attack it from the inside!"

"I can already tell where this is going!" Pikachu cried out, his attack coming to an end "and for the record, I'm not a fan of this idea either!"

With a deep breath, he shot off straight for his opponent. Although not with a speed boost from agility or quick attack.

"Blastoise, guard up!" Gary cried out.

Gary's starter came to a halt and exited his shell, standing on the field. Water expelling out of his shell as Pikachu leaped for him.

Holding his breath, the pure electric type latched onto his neck as a ball of water engulfed both Pokémon. A healing light covering Blastoise's body.

The water type withdrew into his shell and Pikachu held on, sticking his tail where the head popped out. His cheeks sparked and a massive bolt of electricity travelled though the aqua ring. Everything disappeared in a ball of lightening as a massive bolt of lightning shot out of the sky.

Hitting the already electrocuted Pokémon, a massive explosion engulfed both Pokémon.

As the smoke cleared, both Pokémon were lying on the ground. Covered in cuts, bruises, and soot. Both having their eyes replaced with swirls.

"Both Pokémon are unable to battle," the ref declared, "with his Muk still able to battle, the trainer moving onto the finals, Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!"


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...