Author's Note:
Here it is, the final battle of the Silver conference and the long awaited six on six battle between Ash and Paul. I have had this battle planned for a long time, including the teams both trainers will use. I can imagine many of you won't like the out come but it is needed for both characters growth. This will be the last chapter with Paul for a while but when he returns (in Sinnoh) is when the real fun starts. Fun fact, this was the first battle of the league that I wrote and I did it before even starting the Grand Festival. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin... DOUBLE UPLOAD HOORAY!
Chapter 99: Silver Conference - Final
Ash walked out as the bright sunlight hit his skin. Raising his arm up to block the glare, his ears were bombarded with a loud cheer as he approached the trainers stand. It was a little embarrassing, having all this attention but he knew once the battle started he could focus solely on that. As he reached his destination, he spotted Paul across the field. His scrowl ever present on his face and hands in the pocket. A typical referee dressed in green appeared in the middle stand.
"Alright folks, its the battle we've all been waiting for!" the announcer declared, "the final of this year's Silver Conference, between Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town in the Kanto region and Paul Shinji from Velistone city in the Sinnoh region! Both of these trainers competed in last years indigo league where Ash made it to the top four and also won the subsequent Orange league, making him a favourite since the start to win our silver conference but Paul has proven to be no slouch, having earnt a top eight placement in the same tournament last year and has proven to be strategic, having studied each of his opponents throughout this conference, so either side could win. Let's get this battle underway and pass it onto our referee for the match to explain the rules!"
"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 registrared their teams before hand but can use them in any order they like," the ref explained, he raised his hand up to gesture to the score board above. A circle of the original four field types appeared and it began to circle around. It landed on the grass symbol as a light flashed between the two images of Ash & Paul before resting on Paul, "the field will be our grass field for the first half and Paul shall reveal his Pokemon first. Once one side looses three Pokemon, we'll take an intermission and swap the field."
Turning back towards the field, the cover disappeared as a grass patch field raised up between the two trainers. Ash inwardly smirked as this would be useful for pretty much all his team although who he'd use really depends on Paul's own choice. Speaking off, the purple-haired trainer held his Pokeball out.
"Honchkrow, stand by for battle!" he called, as a flash of red light released his dark flying type. It was a large dark blue bird but not as large as something like Pidgeot but it appeared to have some sort of hat as a part of its head. It was circling around before landing in front of Paul, a sinister scrowl on its face. Ash pulled out his Pokedex:
Honchkrow, The Big Boss Pokemon. The final evolved form of Murkrow. Usually seen leading a flock of Murkrow, it rules with an iron fist and does not accept failure or betrayal from its goons. Feared as a ruthless and harsh Pokemon, if one is known in the wild, signs are placed warning to avoid it.
"That must be the Murkrow he caught when Serena got her's," Ash muttered to himself, his hand hovering over the Pokeballs on his belt. The obvious choice would be Pikachu but he doesn't want to to use him so soon. Deciding on the perfect partner to start with, he grabbed the Friend Ball of his belt and tossed it in the air, "Togetic, I choose you!"
Ash's Happiness Pokemon appeared fluttering around in a circle before swooping down in front of Ash, as he caught the Friend Ball, clipping it back to his belt. A smile spread on his face as he saw his pseudo-son. Togetic made a couple punching motions with his stubby arms before turning around to face Honchkrow.
"Are you finished? I want to get this battle done already," Paul called out.
Ash frowned at that, trust Paul to bring down the mood. The audience even booed his sour attitude although he didn't seem to care. It was mentioned back in the top eight interviews that he was one of the favourites but it seems that now its down to just the two of them, he is the favourite.
"Honckrow verses Togetic," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round One
Ash smirked as he watched Paul's dark flying type hope off the ground, soaring straight for Togetic. His glowing wing intended to slam into his fairy flying type but Togetic was able to effortlessly flop over top and avoid it as Honchkrow gained altitude.
Honchkrow circled around, not too high above the ground, as his wing returned to normal. Once head-on with Togetic, he charged down, a blue flame surrounding his body.
"Fairy Wind and dodge it!" Ash called out.
Togetic charged upwards as he gave the mightiest cry he could. A powerful gust blew behind him, sparkles of fairy type energy surrounding it.
The two charged at each other, and as they closed in, Togetic swirled over top. A down draft forced Honchkrow down as in grunted in pain.
Ash's eyes widened as he saw the dark flying type on a collision course for him. He dove to the side as Honchkrow shot past where he was once stood, spreading his wings. He did a complete turn as a power barrier formed around him. One which Ash reconisgned.
"He's using Aerial Ace!" Ash called out, "protect yourself with Ancient Power!"
He barely saw rocks form around his fairy flying type before Honchkrow blipped in front of him, between the two rocks. Both flying types fell down.
"Don't let it recover," Paul growled.
Honchkrow's eyes burst open and spread its wings once more. The sun reflected of them as a metal coat covered them, with the big boss Pokemon closing in.
Togetic screamed out in pain as Honchkrow whack it both sides with both wings. The ground nearing in. Ash's voice stuck in his throat as he watched the event, unsure of how to save his partner. The ground closing in every second.
Honchkrow tried to pull away at the last moment but static sparks prevented him from doing so. Both Pokemon crashing into the grass field.
Ash couldn't help but smile as he saw his own Pokemon get up first, glowing a mystic healing light. Honchkrow followed, struggling against the paralysis.
"Get up and attack," Paul shouted, "before it fully heals."
Honchkrow growled and began charging across the ground, static still sparking over his body. He wasn't nearly as fast as when airborne but Ash knew his impact would pack a punch and Togetic wouldn't be fast enough to fully escape in this state.
A Fairy Wind blew past them, again slowing down the dark flying type but not completely. Ash knew Ancient Power would take too long to protect him.
"Metronome!" Ash shouted.
A bright light engulf his happiness Pokemon, quickly covering Honchkrow with him. Flames erupted out of the light like a volcano. Ash pulled out his Pokedex:
Lava Plume: The user erupts in a series of volcanic flames, hurt all around. Known to inflict burns
Togetic shot up out of the series of explosions as the flames settled down. Honchkrow was covered in soot as blades of grass were burning around him.
Looking as good as knew, Ash's fairy flying type swirled around, forming more rocks around him. Shooting downward, the rocks launched one after another, each landing on top of the big boss Pokemon, smashing as the next one landed.
Letting out the mightiest cry he could, which by all accounts was more adorable than intimidating, he launched out another Fairy Wind.
It blew across the field and scattered the rocks away. Paul's dark flying type was also sent flying within the rubble, crashing into a side wall near the referee, landing flat on his stomach with swirls in his eyes.
"Honchkrow is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Togetic!"
Ash smiled brightly as his happiness Pokemon soared over to him. Diving into his chest, Ash spun him around as his arms wrapped around him, laughing gleefully. Togetic added in with squeals of excitement.
"And Ketchum takes an early lead with a good old type advantage between their flying types," the announcer explained among the cheering crowd, "but how will they fair going forward?"
Glancing across the field, he watched as Paul wordlessly recalled Honchkrow, not even casting a glance at the device as Paul's narrowed eyes locked with Ash's. He swiftly switched it with a second Pokeball and gripped it tight. "Magmar, stand by for battle!"
In a bright flash of light, the pure fire type appeared on the burning grass. The flames grew in size and a large circle around Paul's Pokemon was left, no grass left in the vecinity. His Magmar was a bipedal Pokemon that had a red body with yellow flame designs along the bottom half of its body. It had a puckered, yellow beak, small eyes, and two lumps on its forehead with a yellow flame on top of each one. Rigid, red scales covered its arms and it had five, clawed fingers on each hand. Its shoulders and thighs were yellow, and its red feet had two clawed toes on each foot. It had black, metal shakles around its neck and ankles. Down its back were a row of red spikes poking out from behind. A flame at the tip of its yellow tail, swing from one side to another. Ash used his Pokedex:
Magmar, the Spitfire Pokemon. The evolved form of Magby. In battle, Magmar blows out intensely hot flames from all over its body to intimidate its opponent and set the field for the fight. This Pokemon's fiery bursts create heat waves that ignite grass and trees in its surroundings.
"Alright, take a break for now Togetic," Ash told his happiness Pokemon, pulling out his friend ball and recalling him, "rest up, I'm going to need you later."
"And Ketchum has decided to switch out his Togetic for later in the battle," the annoucer explained, "let's see who he'll use now."
He quickly clipped his Friend Ball back to his belt before taking off another Pokeball. He didn't even have to second guess his choice, tossing the device high into the air, "Blastoise, I choose you!"
Ash's large water type slammed onto the once grassy field, canons readying as an arm reached into his shell. Pulling out a pair of sunglasses, he flicked them open, placing them on his head with a signiture smirk.
"You finished?" Paul asked, through his seething teeth.
For a moment, Ash was surprised to see Paul still intending to battle with Magmar despite his opponent but he shrugged it off. After all, the limited switch rule would mean he would be at a type disadvantage regardless of who he picked and the more he could keep his team secret, the better position he's in. Shaking his head, he locked eyes with the purple haired man as the ref cleared his throat, raising both flags upwards.
"Magmar versus Blastoise," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Two
Ash's water type quickly launched out two jets of water out of his canons. It quickly shot across the burnt field.
Magmar dove forward, barely scraping past the jets and doing a roll underneath the jets. As he came to a stop, he launched a powerful flamethrower which engulfed Blastoise completely.
Despite the hot flames, Blastoise stood his ground. Re-aiming his canons, he launched another blast of water and knocked Magmar away.
The fire type scrapped across the ground, rolling in the dirt as the flames around Blastoise faded.
"Get up and disappear," Paul commanded.
Magmar growled as he pushed himself up. Taking a deep breath, a thick black cloud of smoke exhaled out of his beak. Quickly covering the field.
"Watch out, Blastoise, Magmar could attack from anywhere," Ash called out, trying to look out best he could.
A single flash of yellow appeared for a split second within the smokescreen but it was nothing more than a blur. It was completely silent as a purple outline surrounded the top of the smoke.
"Blastoise! Listen carefully," Ash called out, "I want you to send two Water Pulse's directly above you!"
Moments later two spheres of water shot out of the smoke cloud and smashed together. Raining down over the smoke, it cleared the field to reveal Blastoise on his back, Magmar straddling on top with two fists coated in electricity as he punched the water types head. A purple mark over his nose.
"Get him off with Rapid Spin!" Ash called out.
Retreating his head and limbs into his shell, Ash's pure water type began spinning around. Magmar was sent flying off.
The spinning disc scattered across the ground. Magmar was on his stomach but he quickly pushed himself up and caught the pure water type. As he was pushed back as he struggled to regain his footing. Slamming his tail into the ground, he came to a stop. Raising a fist up, it glew bright white before slamming down. Knocking Blastoise into the ground.
"What?" Ash called out.
"Magmar may be a fire type but I've trained mine to handle this situation when facing a water type," Paul explained as his Spitfire Pokemon unleashed an assault down on the Shellfish Pokemon, "he might as well be part fighting type. Its one reason I haven't evolved him yet."
"What?" Ash called out.
"Of course, I've looked into its evolution but its body changes drastically and he wouldn't be as capable a fighter, hand to hand," Paul explained, "by the time I got ahold of the item needed for his evolution, the conference was only a few weeks away and I knew he wouldn't be able to master a new style in such short time... and as proven here, his current style is proven useful."
Watching his water type on his back, being brutally assaulted by an onslaught of Cross Chops, Dynamic Punches and Karate Chops, Ash watched closely.
"Bite and throw it!" Ash shouted.
As another Dynamic Punch charged down, Blastoise popped his head out of the shell. Biting down on the fist, he swung his head and tossed Magmar away.
Shooting his limbs out of his shell, he turned over and began charging at him, head first. A power barrier formed around him and tackled the fire type, slamming him into the nearby wall.
Magmar cried out in pain but began whacking his claws onto the shell in an attempt to prise him off.
"Finish it off!" Ash shouted.
Grabbing his arm, Blastoise spun around and sent Magmar flying into the air. Leaning down, he re-aimed his canons and quickly launched out two powerful jets of water out which slamming striaght into the spit fire Pokemon.
Magmar landed flat on his back with a heavy thud. Swirls in his eyes and a single puff of smoke exhaling out of his beak.
"Magmar is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round Ash and his Blastoise."
Ash watched as his water type slumped over towards him, each step becoming more sluggish. The purple line over his snout still present as he struggled, eyes half open. Ash may not know which move was used in the smoke but he knew Magmar are capable of a few poison moves but it was clear what the result was. He had been poisoned and was draining his energy. Ash quickly pulled out his Pokeball and recalled him.
"Thank you bud, and rest up," Ash whispered, "you did great."
"And Ketchum springs ahead two to nothing," the announcer explained, "how will Paul respond to this? One more victory to Ketchum and we'll be at the intermission already in this action packed final."
Looking across the field he saw the red light disappear as Paul recalled his Magmar. He was quick to switch Pokeballs but something was off, instead of being annoyed, he looked amused. A smirk taking over his lips as he locked eyes once more.
"What's so funny?" Ash asked, "in case you missed it, your two down."
"You just don't get it, do you?" Paul asked, "I purposely let you beat Honchkrow and Magmar. So I could be sure of your team and your intended strategy."
"What are you trying to say?" Ash asked.
"After researching your team, I came down to two possibilities," Paul explained, "either you'd use your ace team, which would've proved a challenge to be completely honest with you. But the second team is the one you've clearly gone with, the team you have yet to use in this competition. Now its time to teach you a lesson you won't forget! Torterra, stand by for battle!"
In a flash of light, Paul's starter appeared and landed on the desroyed grass field with a heavy thud. It was a large and bulky quadruped Pokemon, with a large shell covering its back. A single, oak-like tree and three triangular, stony extensions resembling mountain peaks on the top of the shell. There was a patch of brown, resembling soil, next to the tree. A white rim surrounding the shell and formed a diamond-shaped continuation on the front. It appeared to be sectioned, with the upper half being green and the lower half brown. Its mouth was jagged, with a black nose. Its lower jaw was green and two large spikes protruding from its cheeks. It had small, red eyes are encircled by a black ring. Its legs were thick and had four sharp-stone shaped clawed toes on each, three on the front of each foot and one on each heel. Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan it:
Torterra, The Continent Pokemon. The final evolved form of Turtwig. Known to be a gentle giant in the wild, smaller Pokemon are known to make nests on this Pokemon's back for shelter. When in good health, fruits and berries can grow on its tree.
"Paul, there's no one like you," Ash shook his head, a slight chuckle escaping his lips, swapping his encyclopedia for another Pokeball, "which is why we're going to win this. I choose you, Pidgeot!"
In a flash of light, his large female bird landed in front of Torterra, despite his head being much lower, Torterra heavily outsized the star flier. She let out a large squawk as she opened her wings in an intimidating manner before flapping and taking off, circling around Torterra.
"Its the other way around," Paul growled.
"Toretera versus Pidgeot," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Three
He watched his normal flying type as she circled around. Like a predatory watching her prey. Casting a glance down at their opponent, he saw Torterra completely still and eyes closed. Weirdly enough, it was almost more terrifying, seeing its relaxed expression.
Large stone pillars shot up out of the ground, surrounding Torterra. Clenching his fist, he knew that Stealth Rocks would make this battle much harder.
"Pidgeot, we got to make this quick!" Ash called out.
A loud squawk echoed as he looked up at his female bird. She stopped mid-flight and slammed her wings together, sending slices of air downward.
He turned towards Torterra and the slammed onto his shell. The continent Pokemon didn't even flinch upon the impact, almost like he didn't feel them.
"Shoot it down," Paul commanded.
Torterra's eyes burst open and he let out a loud roar. A series of small rocks shot up out of the ground and began orbiting around him. With a second roar erupting out of the grass ground type, they shot up high into the air, at a dangerously fast pace.
Turning towards his Bird Pokemon. She quickly shot off back into a flight but the rocks continued to pursue her.
A shining look as the sun reflected of her wings. As she skilfully flew around in a combinations of dives and climbs, she used her Steel Wing to destroy the stones. Glancing back at Paul's starter, he saw another set of stones shooting up from the ground.
"Pidgeot, he's trying to tire you out!" Ash warned, "try heat wave!"
As she continued to destroy the small rocks, a red outline appeared around her. Entering a dive, she sent a wave down before pulling back up.
Turning towards the grass ground type, he saw the tree grow a bright green. A tornado of leaves launched upwards.
The two attacks collided and the leaves burnt against the heat wave. A thick layer of burnt leaves fell down as they battled against each other, cancelling each other out as Torterra disappeared among the covering.
"Torterra can keep this up all day," Paul informed, another shot of stones shoot up out of the ground.
Turning back to the sky, he barely saw his female bird among the burnt debrie. She reactivated her Steel Wing and was continuing her skilful flying.
She dived into the debrie as it settled down. A heavy thud appeared as both Pokemon were revealed once more.
Torterra was still in the same place, one eye closed with gritted teeth. Pidgeot behind him, and turning around as a blue flame engulfed her body. Spreading her wings out, she charged at the continent Pokemon from behind.
The brave bird slammed into Torterra from the back. She soared over head as the flames dispersed.
Paul's starter turned his head and snapped his jaw down on her wing. With a flick of the head, she went crashing down into the ground.
She rolled onto her back as Torterra stepped forward, placing his front legs on her wings. Another series of stone edge's shot out of the ground and began orbiting the two Pokemon. Pidgeot struggled on the ground in an attempt to break free.
"Try another heat wave to escape!" Ash called out.
A red outline began to form around her as Ash felt the heat radiating off her. However, Torterra didn't even flinch as she continued to struggle.
Ash knew this wasn't good, even if she could escape she'd be pelted by those rocks. Not to mention, it didn't appear to be working.
"Even a super effective move like that wouldn't stop Torterra, he is my strongest Pokemon for a reason," Paul informed, "now finish it with Heavy Slam!"
Torterra roared as he reared up on his hind legs, he body coveringing in metal as he did. Slamming down hard on Pidgeot, causing the ground to shake.
Ash struggled to remain standing against the mini earthquake as Torterra climbed off his female bird. As he regained his balance, he looked over the field as the rocks shot back into the ground. Pidgeot was on her back, swirls in eyes.
"Pidgeot is unable to battle," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Paul and his Torterra."
Ash felt his bottom lip drop as the large continent Pokemon walked back towards Paul. Peering over the field, he saw his female bird Pokemon embedded in the ground, looking incredibly flat. Closing his eyes, he held his Pokeball out and recalled her.
"I'm sorry, Pidgeot, I underestimated Torterra and you paid for it," he whispered to the device. Shrinking it down, he clipped it back onto his belt.
"And Paul makes a quick comeback despite the type disadvantage, can he build up a momentum with it?" the annoucer asked, "or will Ketchum get back into the swing and take us straight to the intermission? Only one way to find out!"
"Hurry it up, Ketchum, we both know who your gonna use next so might as well get it over with," Paul called out.
Narrowing his eyes, he glared across the field at Paul, who was mostly hidden behind his starter. Paul may have figured out who he was planning on using for this battle but no way he could predict his entire plan? Shaking his head, he knew Paul was just trying to get in his head and throw him off. Refocusing on the field, he clipped a Pokeball of his belt.
"This battle is only just getting started!" Ash yelled, tossing his Pokeball high into the air, "I choose you, Charizard!"
In a flash of light, Ash's large fire flying type materialised high above the field, his shadow casting down on Torterra. His tail swaying back and forth as the flame radiated heat in all directions. He let out a loud and intimidating roar as he shot a flamethrower high into the air.
Several pillars shot out of the ground and all collided into Charizard... causing him to fall and thud hard on the ground.
"Charizard? You okay?" Ash asked.
His lizard pushed himself up from the ground and snarled at Torterra before turning his head around, a familliar glint in his eye. Raising a claw up, as a substitute-sign of a thumbs up. Charizard pushed himself up, back onto his feet.
"Figures," Paul smriked as he threw his hands into his pockets, "when the battle starts, you know what to do Torterra."
"What?!" Ash called out but to no response.
"Torterra versus Charizard," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Four
As soon as the battle started, his fire flying type let out a powerful Flamethrower straight over the field. It quickly engulfed Torterra, making it disappear from sight. Although Ash's eyes caught sight of balls of light slowly lowering down into the flames.
"Send it flying!" Paul called out.
Torterra reared up out of the flames onto his two hind-legs. A mystic glow over the top of his tree, confirming he used Synthesis to counter Charizard's opening move. Slamming his front legs down on the ground, a violent earthqake echoed out, knocking Ash onto his behind.
Slabs of earth shot up out of the ground, each one larger than the previous. With the flamethrower blocked, Charizard struggled to maintain his balance.
A final pillar erupted from underneath Charizard, launching him into the air. As he struggled to substain a flight pattern by spreading his wings, Torterra settled back down onto all four legs, setting up another barrier of stone edge's orbiting around him.
Knowing it was only a matter of time before Torterra shot him down, and the first battle proved long ranged attacks wouldn't do much good against this opponent, Ash quickly formulated a plan.
"Smoke screen and move in close!" Ash called out, "he can't hit what he can't see!"
"Pathetic," Paul smirked.
Charizard roared as he released a thick black smoke cloud around him and it quickly moved downward. He saw the top of Torterra's tree glow.
A powerful gust of wind formed above the smoke as a tornado of leaves spun around. The smoke was quickly caught up in the Leaf Storm.
"After I relied on that same tactic for Magmar, you couldn't have thought it would actually work, did you?" Paul asked.
Swooping underneath the tornado, Ash wide grin expanded as his fire flying type dove. Heading straight for Torterra, he launched out a Dragon Rage attack and it struck head on. Knocking Torterra backwards as both the stones and the tornado disupated.
"Now!" Paul called out.
Charizard instantly tried to turn up and fly away, but he couldn't. He happened to be close enough that Torterra caught his tail in his jaw.
Branches of green energy expanded out of the tree, wrapping around Charizard's body. He cried out in pain as he struggled against the restraints
"You gotta escape!" Ash called out, "try Inferno!"
His orange lizard began to glow a bright-burning red, as the Giga Drain branch burnt off against his skin. Torterra was also forced to go of his tail.
Flying away, he was much slower than before, panting heavily. Turning around, he stopped midair and launched out a much large fire blast.
"Clip its wings," Paul instructed.
A rock shot out of the ground from below Torterra's foot, much larger than the stone edge ones. The firery inferno exploded around the continent Pokemon as the rock shot straight up, slamming into on of Charizard's wings.
Grunting in pain, he squeezed his eyes shut as he lost altitude. The rock continued outward before pulling a complete u-turn and hitting his remaining wing.
Charizard slumped on the ground, panting in pain as Torterra slowly walked out of the flaming explosion. Looming over his opponent, despite the panting and anguished expression, the grass ground type wasn't done yet.
"Now finish it!"
Torterra roared as he lifted his front legs up. Slamming them back down on Charizard's body, the stadium shook even more violently than before.
"Charizard!" Ash cried out as he was thrown to the ground.
The earthquake lasted a good minute as Ash was in no position to see the result. As the shaking finished, Torterra slumbered off back to his original starting position, a familiar light on his tree as he absorbed healing energy from the sun.
Scrambling to his feet, Ash looked over the field to see Charizard laid flat on his stomach. No sign of movement and no sounds to be made.
"Charizard is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round Paul and his Torterra!"
Ash's bottom lip quivered as he looked across the field. Charizard wasn't even moving. He looked over and saw both Paul and Torterra with stoic expressions on their faces. The Sinnoh native impatiently tapping his foot.
"Hurry up, Ketchum," Paul called out, "we both know you've wasted your best two options to take down Torterra, so who will be the next to fall?"
"And Paul has called out his opponent, even though he has evened the odds in terms of numbers, he has clearly lost the crowd support," the announcer declared among a disaproving crowd, "but who will Ash choose to finish off this first half of this exciting final match at the Silver conference?!"
Ash knew he'd need to think about this more stretigically, type advantage clearly means nothing to Torterra. Of course, he could have Blastoise try and finish it off with some ice moves but if that fails they will be in a bigger mess. No, right now he needs someone with endurance who can slowly wither him down a bit at a time. Its a bit risky but he has just the Pokemon. He took the Pokeball in his hand and launched it high into the air.
"I choose you, Venusaur!" Ash declared, as his grass poison type materialised on the field.
He seemed to match Torterra in size and the two Pokemon both stood still. If one didn't know any better, they might think it was some sort of stand off back in the old west, which was only emphasised by the destroyed terrain they stood on.
"And Ketchum goes with Venusuar as his fifth Pokemon," the announcer declared, "but which of these two grass type starters will come out on top? Torterra has the type advantage but has already battle twice. Only one way to find out so lets watch!"
"Torterra versus Venusaur," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Five
Ash couldn't even blink as Torterra launched out another set of stones. They picked up speed, orbiting around him, once fast enough they shot out straight out across the field, like a barrage of bullets straight out of a rail-gun.
Venusaur didn't flinch and launched out his own projectiles. A series of green spinning disc shaped leaves shot out from the flower on his back. They weren't nearly as fast but sliced striaght through the stones, making them harmless.
Torterra seemed to realise this and stopped, with Ash's own dual grass type following suit.
"Quick Vine Whip and restrain him!" he called out.
Venusaur roared as several large vines shot out from his plant. Some went for the feet, some went for the tree on Torterra's back and the last couple went for the metal horns on his head.
"Pull it in," Paul commanded.
Torterra roared and reared up onto his hindlegs before slamming down in an earth quake. The stadium shook violently as Venusaur was thrown off balance.
His vines loosened their grips as he struggled to remained stood. Torterra took advantange and bite down on the nearest vines with a painful crunch.
Throwing his body backwards, Venusaur came flying towards him, unable to remain still. His body turned so his flower was facing Torterra as he soared.
"Toxic now!" Ash shouted.
He could barely make out the spluttering noise as the action was covered by his grass poison types body. He slammed into Torterra who knocked him to the side. The grass ground type was covered in blobs of purple.
"You knew Torterra would pull him in?" Paul asked.
"Against both Pidgeot and Charizard you had him close in to finish it off so it made sense that's how he performs best," Ash smirked, "now with toxic the time is ticking for Torterra."
To the side, Ash watched his seed Pokemon struggle to his feet. Small balls of light gathering around the center of his back flower.
"He's charging a Solarbeam!" Paul shouted, "counter with Frenzy Plant!"
Depsite the poison taking ahold of him, Torterra roared and readed back onto his feet. Slamming down, the ground shook but not nearly as violently as last time. Cracks appeared in the ground as large thick vines erupted out under Venusaur, launching him into the air.
Venusaur was very reserved and calm, able to release his charged attack despite being midair. The bright beam shot and and exploded around Torterra.
Landing on his stomach, Ash's grass poison type looked incredibly pained as the explosion cleared. Paul's starter was struggling up, a purple rash over his snout. Both looking close to collasping.
"You've actually brought Torterra close to falling," Paul commented, a smirk flashing across his face, "but now the real battle begins."
Both Pokemon struggled to their feet as green auras surrounded them. Ash gasped as he realised both Pokemon had their ability overgrow start.
"Get close with Double Edge!" Ash shouted.
Venusaur charged forward and slammed into Torterra's side. Despite his hardest effort, however, the grass ground type didn't budge.
"Pathetic," Paul muttered.
Ash smirked as he saw his grass poison type prepare his next move. From this position, Paul would struggle to see it behind his continent Pokemon. A small brown seed shot out of his back and landed at the base of Torterra's tree.
Vines expanded out and covered the grass ground type. The green aura of overgrow faded from Paul's starter.
"Worry seed?" he questioned, "clever but we don't need overgrow to finish this match."
As if to emphasis that point, Torterra roared. His feet gritted against the destroyed field and he began charging forward.
His whole body began to shine a metal coating as he knocked Venusaur off balance. Charging across the field, Ash could only watch helplessly as his grass poison type was stuck. Torterra slammed him into a nearby wall with a heavy bang.
"And to think, if only you sent Venusaur out when Torterra first came out," Paul commented, "you might've taken him down with one of your flying types."
Torterra walked away and back towards his trainer, leaving Venusaur to crumble out of the creator his body made in the wall. Swirls in his eyes. Paul's starter appeared to be limping and breathing heavily as his trainer impatiently tapped his foot.
The ref moved closer to investigate Ash's dual grass type. Once confirming his condition, he moved back to the stand and raise his flag in Paul's direction.
"And Venusaur is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round and the first half Paul and his Torterra!"
Serena watched as Ash recalled his third fallen Pokemon, her hand reaching up and clutching the fabric around her heart. He appeared to whisper something to the device before clipping it back to his belt. A glance across the field showed Paul putting his own Pokeball away, Torterra no-where to be seen. From his condition, it looked ready to fall at any second, especially with that toxic but officially he was still able to battle in the second half.
"With Ash now down by three Pokemon, we'll take a fifteen minute intermission to give both sides a chance to recupporate and prepare for the rest of this high action battle! When we return we'll also be back with a new field, this time a dirt field!"
She didn't take her eyes off the field until both trainers had disappeared into their respective wings. Sighing, she slouched back into her seat and looked around. Many people we're standing up, presumably to fetch snacks or use the restroom during the break.
"I'm feeling a little peckish," Brock announced, standing up, "anyone want anything fetching?"
"No thanks Brock, I'm good," she declined, "but thank you."
"No worries Serena," he smiled, leaning in to whisper, "and I wouldn't worry about the numbers. Paul's Torterra was on the verge of fainting so its like its an even three verus three for the second half."
The others each gave in their own order to the breeder, who began making his way out of the seating area. Delia appeared to follow behind, presumably to help him carry it all. Soon they were lost among the crowd but Serena only turned her attention back down to the field.
"Man, Ashy-boy sure does have his work cut out for him," Gary commented, stretching in his seat, "if Paul really did let him beat both Honchkrow and Magmar on purpose then he must've figured out Ash's plan. Not gonna be easy to counter that especially when half a team down."
"Paul only said that because he was loosing," Leaf declared, jumping out of her seat to glare down at the Oak boy, "You'll see. Ash will come back out and kick his butt into the middle of the next tournament."
Serena couldn't help but chuckle at the two's interaction. Even if she's rooting for them to get together, she knows Leaf isn't ready after what happened with Drake. Part of her wondered where he was but shrugged, knowing he was probably watching the battle from another part of the stadium to not upset Leaf anymore than he already has. Still, its nice to see these two can have friendly banter and while Gary's words do ring true, she can't help but smile at the hyper-active girls optamism. She really is like Ash, in that reguard and its nice to have that bright light to keep her focused on the positive side.
"Ha, you two argue like an old married couple," Misty laughed.
"What did you say!" Leaf erupted, as Serena saw the usually confident Oak-boy turn away with bright red cheeks.
"You two are both right," Misty shrugged, ignoring the glaring brunette, "Paul is really giving Ash a run for his money but the numbers are pretty close. It could still go either way but that doesn't mean either side can afford to relax or count the other out."
Taking a deep breath, she focused her vision up to the main score board. It showed that Ash's three Pokemon who lost were blacked out while his Blastoise and Pikachu we're only partially and the last spot empty. Paul's side, on the other hand showed his two images blacked out with Torterra partially, although she knew he wouldn't last long thanks to the toxic. Still, even if they are pretty even, those numbers look a lot further apart than she'd like to admit. Between the two were clips from the battle, hightlights of what's happened so far.
Upon returning, Brock and Delia handed out the vary of drinks and snacks. Most of them had either a hot Growlithe or burger. As Brock took his seat once more, Serena was surprised to find a square box in her face. Turning the source she found Delia holding it out with a smile.
"I know you said you didn't want anything, dear but I'm afraid my son has rubbed off on you. Its easier to notice on him because he's always hungry but starving yourself won't help him win this battle," she smiled, "and you'll need your strength to help him celebrate at the closing ceromony tonight."
"Thanks Mrs. Ketchum," she took the box, lowering it down she saw a selection of nacho crisps swimming in melted cheese."
"I've told you before, call me Delia, your part of the family," she smiled, "and its not because your dating my son. All his friends are apart of our family and always will be. Although I am glad about you dating him, since you got together his manners have improved tremendously."
Serena wasn't sure about that part as she never really saw an improvement, especially when eating. Then again, she has spent most-every day with him so even subtle changes she would be unlikely to notice. At least she knows his family supports their relationship, not that Delia ever gave her reason not to. She actually was more supportive of her feelings before they became trainers than Grace, who only really showed support in her feelings when Ash volunteered for Rhyhorn lessons. Even after he broke his arm doing so, she teased her more than supported or encouraged her to pursue them.
"And don't worry about the battle, you should know as well as anyone that when the battle seems to be going one way, that's when Ash pulls it back," she explained. A loud ruckess on the field drew her attention, as a new field, although covered, raised up as the two trainers walked back out with the referee.
"And we're back folks," the annoucer drew their attention back down to the field. Ash and Paul were retaking their positions on the field as the new dirt field raised up between them. It was just a basic battlefield, nothing to really make it stand out. Glancing up to the board, she saw it light up with Ash's image, not a surprise since the Sinnoh native started the first half, "and Ash has to reveal his Pokemon first? Will he be able to turn this back around after a true display of power between Paul and his Torterra. His self confessed strongest Pokemon. Although the change of field has eliminated Paul's stealth rocks."
"I choose you, Togetic!" Ash shouted as he tossed the green device out into the air. Serena smiled at the sight of the fairy flying type, swooping around the air before stopping in front of her boyfriend. It made perfect sense, saves revealing a new team member when he's almost guanteed to be at a type disadvantage due to picking first.
"And Ash has brought back his Togetic, who already beat Paul's Honchkrow," the announce explained, "but who shall his opponent be?"
"Ursaring, stand by for battle," Paul declared, holding his own device out.
In a flash of light, his pure normal type appeared on the field. It seemed to stand tall, but Togetic raised his own height as if not to be loomed over. Extending both arms, the sharp claws pointed out with a loud roar. It reminded her of Ash's Sandslash and that didn't reassure her in the slightest. Wanting a refresher on the normal type, she pulled out her own Pokedex:
Ursaring, The Hibernator Pokemon. The final evolved form of Teddiursa. In the forests inhabited by Ursaring, it is said that there are many streams and towering trees where they gather food. This Pokémon walks through its forest gathering food every day. Due to the danger they represent, signs are put up around known Ursaring to live. If you encounter an angry one, its adviced you run away.
She remembered back to when Paul caught this particular Pokemon, it was early in their Johto adventure and the same time Ash caught his Heracross. At the time, Ash was really upset he couldn't stop the purple haired trainer from catching him but Ursaring seems to have taken really well to Paul's methods. No matter how much they disagree with his training style, she couldn't admit he has proven himself to be a contemplate battler.
"Come on Ash, you can win this," she thought to herself. Focusing down on the field as the referee held up both flags.
"Ursaring versus Togetic," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Six
Ash watched with a tightly closed fist and hesitant breath as the normal type charged forward. Ursaring raised its arms, its claws glowing bright white and exending outward with a fearce cry. It quickly closed the distance across the dirt field.
Wanting to call out, he didn't as Togetic gracefully swooped out of the way. He didn't fly away, however, barely remaining with in reach of the hibenator Pokemon and easily dodging the slashes as they came, one after another. Ash noticed this strategy of Togetic to lure his opponents in.
"Don't use Thunder Wave, Togetic," Ash called out, "Ursaring has the guts ability! It'll make him even more dangerous!"
His fairy flying type quickly dodged the latest slash, swooping between the normal types legs. He appeared behind Ursaring, pushing his back, causing him to stumble forward and nodding as if to indicate he heard him.
The happiness Pokemon shot up and high above the field. Clear out of Ursaring reach, as he turned towards him, watching in anger.
Ursaring cried out and raised its arms, which glew white. Slamming them down on the dirt field, the ground cracked where it hit.
Swipping up the loose rocks in its arms, Ursaring turned and began launching the rocks up. Ash wanted to call out but they were already flying past his fairy flying type. The first couple missed, but it alerted Togetic, who stopped ascending and began trying to actively avoid them.
Togetic's eyes glew bright blue as a field of psychic type energy extended out of him. The rocks that got close came to a stop midair before firing back.
Paul's pure normal type roared as the rocks rained down. He covered his face with his arms, taking the attack head on instead of avoiding it.
With rocks running out, Togetic dived down, picking up speed as he fell. His mightest cry echoed as a wind blew down with sparkles of fairy type energy.
Ursaring crossed his arms and growled, barely being pushed back a couple inches. His feet claws digging into the dirt field as he roared in anger.
"We're gonna need a bigger hit, Togetic!" Ash called out, "let's try Metronome!"
His happiness Pokemon disappeared among a bright flash. Even Ursaring couldn't watch, roaring out as he disappeared among the flash.
With the bright light fading, it took a second for Ash's vision to return to normal. As it did, he saw Togetic swiping low with one of his stubby arms glowing bright white. He charged into Ursaring's face, punching him square in the jaw.
The hibenator Pokemon growled in anger as his arm swung around, glowing white. He caught the fairy flying type and slammed him down in the ground.
Clearly he was angered more by that attack than he was hurt. Togetic struggled against the strong normal type, as Ursaring glared menacingly.
"Finish this already," Paul spat.
As the normal type used one hand to keep him trapped, Ursaring raised his other. His claws extended outward and glew bright white.
"Ancient Power!" Ash cried out.
Paul's normal type swiped its claws down but it was stopped by a glowing rock. He paused, confused as the Ancient power crumbled under his strength.
Another rock floated behind him and slammed into Paul's Pokemon's head. Ursaring cried out, turning around ready to attack whoever hit him. In the swift movement, he sent the happiness Pokemon across the field but it was more of a side effect.
Togetic began floating as his body glew, recovering from his previous encounter. Ash watched as Ursaring lashed out at thin air, his eyes widening.
"Focus!" Paul growled as Ursaring began snarling, clearly trying to calm down.
"I've got an idea, Togetic!" Ash called out, "for now just do what Pikachu would do!"
His fairy flying type turned to look at him. A cheeky smile forming on his lips with a mischievious glint in his eyes. A swift nod was his only response.
Turning around, he soared over to Ursaring calling out to him. The normal type turned and roared, charging towards him in a rampage.
Togetic came to a stop, and waited. As his opponent closed in, he blew a kiss in his direction. It landed on Ursaring's snout, and his eyes became diluted.
Ursaring began thrashing out around him, as Togetic swirled around. He gave off a combination of charms and taunts as he mocked his opponent.
Ash couldn't help but smile at the sight, many would've refused to use such tactics against an opponent they aren't exactly attracted to. Then again, Togetic hasn't shown any romantic interest in anyone but thanks to the enviorment he's raised him, Togetic is completely confortable in this style.
Chancing a glance over to the Sinnoh native, he saw Paul looking at the duel with what could only be described as pure disgust. Their eyes lines met for a brief second before he threw his hands into his pocket and turned to the side.
"And it looks like Paul has given up on his Ursaring," the annoucer explained among a booing crowd, "what sort of strategy is he thinking of?"
Turning his attention back to duel, he saw Ursaring kneeling down and covered in sweat. His eyes were still diluted but he was clearly angry still.
Hovering above him, Togetic called out a taunting remark. Ursaring leaped at him once more, swiping him out of the air and holding him in both hands.
"Now finish it with Dazzling Gleam!" Ash shouted.
A bright light erupted out of the two claws, as smoke burnt off where it touched Ursaring's chest. A bright ball of light completely covered his happiness Pokemon, causing Ursaring to try and turn away. The ball of light charged forward and delivered a series of punches to the normal type.
The hibenator Pokemon slumped down on his chest, swirls replacing his eyes. Togetic faded back into view, floating around making victory poses.
"Ursaring is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round Ash and his Togetic."
Ash smiled as his fairy flying type charged straight across the field, knocking him over with a massive hug as they cheered. The erupting cheers from the crowd only adding the the excitement. Laughing joyfully, Ash cast a glance across the field, just in time to see Paul recalling his fallen normal type.
"I'll deal with you, later," he hissed, forcing the device back into his pocket. Swiftly pulling out another one, "Nidoking, standby for battle!"
In a flash of light, the large, bipedal, purple Pokemon appeared, flexing his large arms with a loud roar, not to different to Ursaring's enterence. He had narrowed eyes; large, spiny ears, with fur-like tufts on its cheeks, and a short snout filled with pointed teeth. There was a long, venomous horn on its forehead and a ridge of spines poking out down its back. Gray plates cover its chest and belly, and there is a gray, rounded spine on each elbow. Each hand had three-claws, while each foot had only a single hoof-like nail. Swaying behind it was a long, menacing tail. Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a refresher:
Nidoking, The Drill Pokemon. The final evolved form of male Nidoran's. Nidoking prides itself on its strength. It's forceful and spirited in battle, making use of its thick tail and diamond-crushing horn. They are known to be dangerous combination of venom and force in battle.
"And Paul has swiftly replaced his Ursaring with an equally intimidating and powerful force in his Nidoking. Although his reaction to the last round result has further departed him from the crowd support," the annoucer explained, "who will Ketchum choose to face down this new opponent?"
Ash pushed himself back up to his feet as his eyes studied the large poison ground type. He knew from his past battles with this force that he was one of Paul's strongest team members, even if not the brightest. Which can be even more dangerous than the opposite. He knew that Togetic had a couple of advantages over him, such as the flying immunity to ground and a psychic type attack but its clear their power difference is evident. Along with the fact that his happiness Pokemon has battled twice whilst Nidoking is fresh. With his decision made, he pulled out the friend ball.
"Take a rest for now, Togetic," he called out. He disappeared in a red light before given the chance to argue about the decision.
"And Ash has made the call to swap out his Togetic in face of this obvious type disadvantage," the announcer explained, "but will he go with his Blastoise or will we see his final team member for this battle?"
Taking the device off his belt, he swirled it around in his fingers, finding the button to enlarge it. With a deep breath, he tossed it into the air, "I choose you again, Blastoise!"
In a flash of light, his pure water type appeared on the field. At first he was slouched, clearly still tired from his bout with Magmar but he quickly straightened himself up and pulled out his sunglasses, making a show of putting them on. A signiture smirk spread across his face.
"Nidoking versus Blastoise," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Seven
Ash smirked as his Blastoise launched out a powerful Hydro Pump to start the battle. The two jets of water shot across the field and crashed into the Drill Pokemon, who crossed his arms across his chest. Skidding across the dirt ground, he came to a stop and roared between in anger.
His water type seemed to notice this and withdrew into his shell, ending his water pulse. Spinning around, he charged towards Nidoking.
The poison ground type charged forward as well. Lowering his head, he entered a full run with his horn leading the way. A power barrier forming around it.
Smashing into each other, it was difficult to make out who won. Not for long as Nidoking stood up and tossed Blastoise behind and into the air.
"Ice Beam!" Ash shouted.
His pure water type popped out of his shell midair. A ball of ice formed at his mouth and a powerful beam of ice rained down.
Instead of a direct hit on the ground bound Pokemon, it spread over the whole dirt field. Creating a thin layer of ice over it and trapping Nidoking's feet.
"Alright, now he's stuck use Gyro Ball!" Ash hollered.
He watched his shellfish Pokemon with draw back into his shell and spin once more. Falling, it seemed a little uneven as a gray outline formed around it.
Slamming onto the ground, he continued spinning, sending bits of ice flying outward. Soaring across the field, he slammed into Nidoking's back and past.
He continued spinning into the nearby wall, bouncing back he went in for a second hit. While Nidoking's legs were frozen in place, his upper body was not. He was able to grab Blastoise. The water type tried to push back but to no avail as the drill Pokemon raised an arm and slammed it down.
Blastoise slumped onto the ground, breaking the ice that previously trapped Nidoking. He also popped back out of his shell, looking a little dazed.
Nidoking picked up the pure water type, dragging him to his feet. Pulling a fist back, it sparked with electricity. He punched the shell as his second fist sparked with electricity. Blastoise stumbled backwards as Nidoking pursued to continue the beat down.
Blastoise shook his head, as if trying to force himself back to reality, as he took a couple more punches. Clenching his own fists, they became coated in ice.
Taking another thunderpunch to the chest, he punched back into the Drill Pokemon. Nidoking grunted but continued to pursuit.
Neither side really took the advantage as they continued to punch each other. Even if knocked down, they would force themselves back up. If someone didn't know the type match ups, they might've thought that they weren't using moves which were meant to be super effective.
"And it looks like the battle has turned into a bare-knuckles bawl despite neither side being a fighting type," the announcer declared, "but which side will come out on top is anyone's guess."
They continued to punch each other as both sides seemed to slowly get weaker and weaker, even if neither wanted to show it. Blastoise took the next attack before retaliating right back with an ice punch straight to his face. That seemed to hit harder than the previous ones.
Nidoking spat a blob of blood out of his mouth, panting heavily. Both sides were bruised and bloody, eitherside ready to collasp at any moment.
"This has gone on long enough," Paul declared, "finish it now."
Nidoking gave one more mighty roar, as if to energise himself. Swinging his first forward, it landed square in Blastoise face, knocking him onto his stomach.
Climbing over him, his drill began to spin. With a swivle of the head, his hord jabbed straight into the side of Blastoise, knocking him out.
"Blastoise is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round Paul and his Nidoking."
Ash's eyes widened as he watched the Drill Pokemon walk away from his fallen water type. Paul's poison ground type turned back and glared at him, a hunger lingering in his eyes as if daring him to send out another Pokemon. Once he reached his trainer, he turned back around and waited. Paul had his hands in his pockets with an almost laidback posture, as a smirk covered his face. He had planned that ending straight from the start but-
"You could've had him use Horn Drill right at the start?" Ash asked, "when they first clashed and he sent Blastoise flying."
"I could've," Paul admitted, "but I had only just sent Nidoking out. I needed Blastoise to get his blood pumping, making it more difficult for the rest of your team. So who will be the next to fall, Ketchum? That pathetic little egg, or that rat by your feet?"
Ash was slightly surprised that he already knew he had Pikachu as his last option but then again, Paul claimed to have figured out his team beforehand anyway so instead shook his head and pulled out a Pokeball, recalling his fallen Blastoise.
"Take a nice long rest, buddy, you deserve it," he smiled at the device. He heard the crowd erupt into applause as he clipped the device back to his belt and turning towards his partner by his feet. Pikachu looked up, on all four paws ready to pounce, with slightly narrowed eyes and sparking cheeks, "you ready for this buddy?"
"As if you had to ask," he smirked.
"Oh please, just because you've won popularity with crowd you think you can turn around this loosing battle?" Paul asked, "your pathetic."
The crowd echoed in a series of boos, clearly directed at Paul... not that he seemed to care.
"Paul..." he sighed, "there's no-one like you... and that's why we're gonna win this!"
"Its the other way around," Paul spat, his drill Pokemon stepping forward as the Sinnoh native straightened up and narrowed his eyes.
"Pikachu... I choose you!" he shouted whilst pointing his hand out.
His electric started darted out onto the thinnly ice covered field. Landing on all fours, his tail slammed down into the ground and his cheeks sparked. He let out a cry as he appeared ready to move at a seconds notice. Nidoking stepped forward and seem smile meancingly as he loomed over him.
"And Ketchum has revealed his last Pokemon to be his Pikachu, a risky strategy to send it out against a ground type like Nidoking," the announcer explained as the two Pokemon squared up, "but we have seen this trainer over come type matchups before so lets see what will happen!"
"Nidoking verses Pikachu," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Eight
The Pallet native felt a smirk as his started shot off. He disappeared in the blink of an eye and reappeared in front of the Drill Pokemon. He spun his metal covered tail over head and slammed onto Nidoking's foot. Launching himself into the air, Paul's Pokemon attempted to grab him.
Slipping through with ease, he slammed his Iron Tail on the back of his head. The Drill Pokemon stumbled forward as Pikachu shot down his back.
When Nidoking stood, it revealed a hole behind him. The poison ground type growled and raised a foot.
Preparing to call out a warning but he didn't need to. Two large blades of grass sprouted out of the ground and wrapped around his other leg.
Paul's Pokemon stumbled down onto one knee as the ground cracked next to him. Pikachu shot out and slammed another Iron Tail direct into his face.
Nidoking cried out in anger, pushing back up to his feet. Ripping the grass knot out of the field in one go. Pikachu was crouched lower as he appeared to be waiting for the next move. Nidoking took a deep breath, shooting a powerful flamethrower across the field.
As the flames would've struck him, Pikachu disappeared at the last second. The flames sprayed across the field but as it ended, several Pikachu's appeared.
They all shot forward, one after another, each charging from a different direction. Nidoking clenched two fists which glew, swinging at the onslaught.
As he struck each copy, they disappeared into thin air. Even Ash couldn't really tell which was the real Pikachu.
"The real one is going for your legs!" Paul called out, "cover the ground with Sludge Wave!"
The Drill Pokemon roared as waves of sludge oozed out of his body. It quickly covered the field in purple toxic sludge, with a large circle surrounding him.
One of the clones made a leap at the sludge air, soaring across the sludge field. With the other copies running through the sludge, it became pretty obvious that he was the real one. His tail started to turn to metal as Nidoking slammed his fist down onto his back.
Pikachu smashed onto the ground. He rolled around in the sludge, coming to a stop near the edge. The other clones disappeared.
"How did you know what Pikachu was planning?" Ash called out.
"Simple, that's what I would've done if the situation was reversed," Paul smirked, "I was doubtful you'd teach an actual battle tactic but when there was one way for my Nidoking to lose this battle, its best to get that covered."
The poison ground type turned towards Pikachu and began stomping towards him. Sludge splattering everywhere.
His electric mouse Pokemon struggled up on all fours and weakily shook his fur clean of toxic sludge.
Picking up speed, Nidoking lowered his horn as it glew white. A power barrier formed around his pinpoint horn. With each step, the ground shook as if to echo the momentum he had picked up. Ash barely saw his starters eyes widen in shock before disappearing behind the large purple beast.
Closing his eyes, he didn't want to see the impact. After a few seconds, he was surprised that he hadn't heard his buddy cry out in pain.
Peaking out, he saw Pikachu running across the field, with Nidoking stampeding behind. Stopping by the wall, he seemed to catch his breath as Paul's Drill Pokemon closed in.
The poison ground type slammed into the wall as Pikachu leaped over head. Landing behind the now dazed opponent, Pikachu was panting tiredly.
"olé!" he shouted, not that anyone other than Ash would've understood.
"Pikachu, I got a plan!" Ash called out, "first I need you to get to the other side of the sludge pit!"
His starter nodded, whipping a trail of sweat from his forehead. He quickly started running, disappearing in a blink and reappearing the otherside of the sludge field previously set up. He seemed to rest, catching his breath. Ash knew that the quick bath in sludge pit likely poisoned him, hence his new exhaustion.
"Get back in the sludge," Paul commanded, "its ranged moves won't affect you and in there, it won't get close enough for a physical attack."
Nidoking shook his head and nodded towards his trainer. It quickly picked up momentum once more but stopped near the centre of the sludge pit.
"So what's it gonna be, Ketchum?" Paul asked, "let that rat surcum to the poison? Swap it for that fairy or just give up. Those are the only options now."
"We'll take option d," Ash smirked, "you see, you made one very big mistake in your calculations."
"I doubt it," Paul spat.
"You was right in saying Pikachu's ranged attacks wouldn't affect your Nidoking... but what about his sludge?" Ash asked, "Thunderbolt now!"
He barely had chance to see the sinnoh natives response as Pikachu leaped into the air, launching out a powerful Thunderbolt. It struck the sludge covered floor, next to Nidoking and it quickly burst into flames. The entire pit became a bonfire as Nidoking cried out. Seconds later, it exploded.
Pikachu landed next to Ash as the field erupted in smoke and fire. It took nearly a minute but as it faded down, bits of earth raining across the field. Nidoking was slumped on his back with swirls in his eyes and small puddles of sludge scattered everywhere.
The referee moved closer as the mostly torn up field settled down. Nidoking was covering in soot and char, almost unreconisgnable.
"Nidoking is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winner of this round Ash and his Pikachu."
Ash watched as his rival silently recalled his Nidoking, not giving the device a second glance as he tossed it into his pocket. At least he wasn't berating it like he did with Ursaring earlier. Shaking his head, he focused on his own Pokemon instead. Panting heavily, Pikachu was slouched over but as soon as their eyes met, he jumped back to his feet. Still panting, he gave a thumbs up showing he was ready to go again.
"And here we have a surprise turn around with Ash and Pikachu over coming a type immunity," the announcer explained, "but now we will wait and see if Paul will reveal his final Pokemon in this match up or if he'll bring out his Torterra once more. It does have a type immunity over Pikachu, but as just proven, it can be overcome. Not to mention, last time we saw it, it suffered some heavy hits from three consecutive battles and had been poisoned."
Turning his attention back to the purple haired trainer, it made the most sense to that he would pick Torterra because it would keep his last Pokemon not only fresh for as long as possible but also a surprise... then again, anyone who knew Paul's team could predict his last-
"Electavire, stand by for battle!" Paul shouted.
In a flash of light, the large humanoid Pokemon appeared. It was covered in yellow fur with black stripes. Lacking a neck, it had red eyes and a black spot on its forehead, and a pair of antennae with bulbous tips. The fur on its cheeks and shoulders was spiky and ruffled. It had two long black tails with red rounded ends, resembling open electrical wires. Its feet were black with three, clawed toes. With five black fingers on each of its hands. Despite having seen this one battle previously in the league and even facing it before he evolved, facing it was something else. Ash pulled out his Pokedex for a quick refresher:
Electavire, The Thunderbolt Pokemon. The final evolved form of Elekid. In terms of electrical-energy output, Electivire is one of the best among all Electric Pokémon. It discharges high-voltage currents from its tails. The power of its energy produced is related to its heartbeat.
As he put the device away, he quirked an eyebrow up in his opponents direction. Paul was pretty well hidden behind his electric type, who was slamming his paws together while making a series of cries, clearly impatient. Why would he reveal Electavire right now? It made no sense from a strategy stand point.
"You alright to keep going, Pikachu?!" Ash called out, deciding that asking himself wouldn't work.
"Of course," Pikachu shouted back, jumping to his feet and re-entering a battle stance. Electavire smirked and made another cry as he entered his own starting position. The referee raised both flags up.
"Electavire versus Pikachu," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash VS Paul: Round Nine
Ash quirked an eyebrow up at his Pikachu's opening move. Instead of performing a speedy enterence as per usual, he instead disappeared underground. It made sense, being tired he would be more obvious if not underground.
Turning his attention to the large electric type, he slammed his fists together as electricity sparked over his body. An excited smirk plastered on his face.
His twin tails raised up, overloading with electricity. Flying overhead - they slammed into the ground like rods. A field of electricity engulfing him completely.
The field shook as it crumbled in front of Electavire. Pikachu cried out as he became visible among the landslide created.
"Double Team and try to save yourself!" Ash called out.
His starter struggled to gain a footiing but eventually landed on a slab of earth. Darting off, he began jumping through the avalaunch. Some copies started to appear as they all jumped towards the top of the field.
"Stop wasting time and grab it," Paul growled.
The twin tails raised once more, his eyes darting over the field. Moments after the command, they shot into the landslide and grabbed Pikachu - first try.
"What?!" Ash gasped as his electric starter was raised high above their opponent.
Electricity surrounded his starter and seemed to travel through the thunderbolt Pokemon's tails. At first, Ash didn't consider this a problem because of his starters immunity thanks to lightening rod. However, he soon realised his starter was weakly crying out and failing to break free.
"You see, Electavire's tails are like charger sockets but he's learnt how to reverse the process," Paul informed, an arrogant smirk ever-present on his face, "he is currently sapping your Pikachu of every jewel and volt he has left. He's too weak to break free and when done, he'll be super charged."
Ash's mouth hung open as he watched his starter struggle. A stinging wetness filling his eyes. "Why are you telling me this."
"Because right now your friend is too weak to break free thanks to his duel with Nidoking," Paul informed, "and once Electavire is done. He'll be supercharged, making the match up unwinable for your little Togetic... not that it would stand much of a chance outside of a lucky metronome, anyway."
"So now you have to make a choice. Surrender this battle, allow me to take my rightful place as the winner of this years Silver conference. Or wait until my Electavire has drained your rat and charred your fairy. Then loose anyway. Either way, I've already won."
The sparks around the two Pokemon faded as Electavire looked mildly annoyed. His tails whipped forward, launching Pikachu over the cobbled field.
His starter rolled to a stop, moaning out in pain. Whiping his eyes, Ash looked closer to see Pikachu weakly looking up at him.
Forcing himself back onto his stomach, Pikachu struggled to push himself up on all fours. A weak cry barely leaving his lips.
"It still wants to battle?" Paul asked, raising his own eyebrow, "heh. Teach them the leason in that case, Electavire."
The Thunderbolt Pokemon let out a loud - energised - cry, as he slammed his fists together. Crossing his arms in front of his body in an x shape, they both glew white. With incredible speed, he zoomed across the field, faster than a Pokemon of his size probably should've.
Slamming into Pikachu at full force, a power barrier in the x shape pushed him back. Pikachu was sent flying across the field.
Unable to watch it happen, Ash bolted from his stand. Running with all his might he made a jump for his best buddy, "Pikachuuuu!"
Closing his eyes, he felt the wind knocked out of him as something punched his gut. Being thrown back by the impact, he soon came to stop as he collided with a hard solid object, slumping down on the cold earth.
Peaking out of his eyes, he saw Pikachu curled up in his arms. Swirls in his eyes as the ref also came into view.
"Pikachu is unable to continue," the ref declared, "making the winners of this round Paul and his Electavire."
Struggling to his feet, Ash cradiled his fallen starter in his arms as he slumped back to his trainers box. The ref asked if he was alright, especially after that hard blow but he couldn't bring himself to answer. His eyes just looked down at his fallen electric type in his arms.
"And what a massive blow for Ash, after being sited as one of the favourites in this years tournament," the announcer explained, "all he has left now is his already battle-worn Togetic, whoses at a massive type disadvantage against Paul's Electavire. It sounds like Paul wanted to completely over power his opponent in this match and after how he's battled so far, its clear he's done exactly that."
Finally reaching his trainers box, Ash stood still just watching his starter, doing his best to ignore the noise from the audience. A peircing cry drew his attention, however, looking up he saw Paul's Electavire stood near the centre of the crumbled field.
Sparks of electricity jumping off his fur, as he raised one hand in a 'come and get me' fashion. His eyes narrowed and locked with his own. He wanted to prove both Paul and his team wrong. To grab his last Pokeball of his belt, turn his hat around and go full throatle, coming out as the winner. Prove to Paul that his whole method of training is flawed and should be stopped. Prove that friendship is the true way to get stronger with any Pokemon-
But he couldn't.
With an exasperated sigh, he closed his eyes and looked down at Pikachu. Despite small breaths coming in and out of his mouth, and his stomach raising and lowering in rhythm, he was still unconsious with a trail of sweat now covering his forehead. Giving both his opponents one last look, he relaxed his posture.
"You'll need to release your final Pokemon now for the battle," the ref drew his attention, "if you don't I'll have no-choice but to take it as a forfeit."
"I am forfeiting," he admitted, "I can't put Togetic through another battle. He couldn't handle Electavire even without the charge he got from Pikachu and so its not fair on him."
He heard many gasps and calls from the audience as he turned his attention back to his opponents. Electavire relaxed its battle stance, but looked mildly annoyed, as if he wanted the extra battle. While Paul locked eyes with a smug smirk taking over his face.
"Since Ash Ketchum has declared his Togetic unable to continue, the winner of this match is Paul Shinji from Veilstone City," the ref declared, raising a flag in the purple haired boys direction, "we will give both parties a chance to clean themselves up and have their Pokemon attended too before the closing ceromony later this evening."
Turning around, he started making his way back into the waiting wing as the only way for him to make it out of the stadium. Moving his arms, he tried to make his electric type as comfortable as possible. Although he did hear the audience boo, and show a rather bad distaste for the result of the battle.
Although he already knew Paul wouldn't care what any of them thought.
Deciding to not wait for his friends, he quickly made his way through the stadium. He just wanted to get his team the medical attention they desprately need and also to be left alone. As he made his way through the lobby, however, he was surprised to see Paul leaving from the other wing with a large, seemingly happy man in some sort of Alolan-style shirt.
He was also surprised when Paul seemed to be genuanly engaged with their discussion. Now wanting to intrude or even be anywhere near him, however, Ash quickly exited the building and made his way towards the Pokemon centre.
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