Hello everyone and welcome to the last chapter of this fic, or not! Nope sorry this story isn't over yet. It should be, but this last chapter will be split in two since when I realized what I had done I was already close to 20k words so I decided to split it.
Now for the I'm sorry section... It's been some rought months between work and a very bad season for my mental health in which I felt no motivation to do anything at all. Luckily, things are looking nice now and everything has improved drastically. This said I almost have the last chapter ready too so you'll probably have the last, final, ending chapter before long. Sorry it took so long.
Now it's TIME WITH REVIEWS!
smile all of your days: Well, this is the second to last chapter. It just became way longer than I expected. I hope you love this one and the next. Thanks for your support! You're the best!
mysteryreader6626: I'm so glad you like this fic that much. i just hope I can deliver. The same as you I miss a good Pokemon Special fic right now, hopefully some will pop up soon. Thanks for your support, it means a lot that you kept reading this fic!
Comisure: Yeah, you tell me I started this story in college and right now I'm working. So many things happened, I'm just happy to be able to finish it. I hope you love the endings. Thanks for you nice words!
Boscky: You read it way too fast hahahah 47 Chapters in a week is amazing. I'm just glad you liked it and I hope you continue to do so. thanks a lot!
ShadowPaladin23: You don't have to wait any longer! I hope you like it!
Medkitz207: I gave my best, I don't know if it is that amazing, but I tried. I still find that I've improved since I already know a lot of things that I could've done better, but I like the result a lot. I hope you all do until the end.
So that's it for TIME WITH REVIEWS. Thanks to everyone to Reviewed, it kept me motivated a lot more than what you can imagine.
Before we start, we have a message from our amazing editor!
LexClone5: Hey, long time, no chat. Imma be honest, this thing would've come out about a month earlier had life not killed my motivation to get anything done. Life's tough, but I manage to push through it for you guys. No need to feel sorry for me or anything, I'm slowly doing better. 2020 was a rollercoaster for me and everyone else, and I hope this year fares better for all of us. Cheers!
READ and ENJOY!
Chapter 48: The 10th Dexholder Pt. 1?
3 months later
Courtney's POV
-He's late!- I sighed, petting my Mawile- Why did they have to assign him as my partner for today?
My Mawile, Wile, shook her head which made the mouth in the back of her head to swing slightly. After being with me for such a long time with she had been accustomed to my lifestyle, and also my love for punctuality. And him, Damian, was 5 whole minutes late! That's when said man arrived to our meeting place, as calmly as a person could be!
-Hey there…
-You… are… LATE!- I said, my piercing green eyes shutting him up.
-Hey I'm not that late… it's only been 5 minutes…
-That's 5 minutes we could've spent preparing for the event! Now shut up and get on!- I said signaling my two seat motorbike- We are already late as it is.
-Is it yours?- he asked quite surprised when I tossed him a reglementary helmet for him to put on.
-Yes, what do you mean?- I answered when I put one on Wile.
-This thing is huge!
-Yeah so?
-Well… it does not really fit with your looks, that's for sure….- he said before my eyes pierced him again. For some reason he stuttered then- I me-mean that it mu-ust have a lot of power!
-It does and now get on already- I said- and don't you dare drop Wile!
Without waiting for him to reply I started my motorbike and we zoomed out of there. Exactly 15 minutes and 22 seconds we arrived at my parking lot in the stadium. The stadium that would see the birth of the 10th Dexholder today.
I got out of it and took Wile's helmet and stored it. When I looked back I saw Damian just get out of it quite dazed.
-You are actually a very good rider!- he said then- But did we really need to go that fast?
-Of course! Do you know what time it is?
-Yes! It's still 2 and half hours until the battle starts.
-Exactly! We need to prepare and entertain all the audience. The broadcast starts in 30 minutes!
-Okay! You are pretty hyped up about it, aren't you?
-Of course! This has been my dream for years! To present a tournament like this and being tasked with the most important match of all…- I said dreamily- don't you understand the importance of this moment?
-You know I was a battle away from being in it right?- Damian said.
-Of course I do! And that is exactly why your help will be so important today- I added- Now let's go! Today is going to be great!
-I have to agree with that- he said then looking at the stadium where he also valiantly fought until he lost in the semifinals.
-Then let's go get prepared! We need to get you changed.
-Why?
-Those trousers and that shirt… we need something more formal.
-What is wrong with my black and blue shirt and blue jeans?
-Too casual!
Damian's POV
-And right at that moment, the door of the stadium have been officially opened for the audience that will have the pleasure to experience the final of the 10th DexHolder tournament!- she started with an energy that was very contagious- My name is Courtney and I hope I can help make this worldwide event as amazing as it has to be.
She is quite good at this I must say.
-In a matter of minutes the lucky people that got a ticket for a spot in this stadium will start to populate this, now empty, stadium that can accommodate up to…
-90000 spectators- I said then, just as planned.
-Well and that goes the 1st surprise of the day- she said- The person that you just heard will be the technical commentator of the day since he is an expert at battling. And as you just heard he is really hyped up for this too. But enough with the chit-chat, my colleague for today is non other than…
-Damian Sky- I said- the trainer that will, one day, catch the legendary pokemon Mew.
-Oh well… that's surprising- she said- It is a very bold comment you just said, might like to elaborate on it?
-Long story short, I was 5 when I saw Mew and my dream is to see it again and try to catch it.
-You really saw Mew?
-I can understand if people from the audience do not believe me, a lot of people never did, but I really saw it -I said remembering that event- It was not fighting or anything, just flying in the night sky. I looked at him through the window when it noticed me and approached the window. It looked at me for some seconds until my mom shouted from the kitchen. That made me turn, but when I turned back to look at Mew again it had vanished. I went out to see if I could see it again, but I never found it. So I investigated about what creature could it be… and it turned out to be Mew.
-That was a really nice story- she said- A little hard to believe, but very interesting.
-But we are not here to talk about me, are we?- I said then.
-As a matter of fact, yes we are- she said then in a very excited voice- For a while at least. I'm sure everyone knows that, but you are one of the best competitors that this tournament has given. To achieve a Top 4 position in it is by no means an easy feat.
-I have to say that I am really proud of how it went, although it feels bittersweet to get so close to it and then lose.
-Well that is something we all can imagine- she said- I has really been a long and hard tournament. Do you mind if we go over the tournament details before coming back to you?
-Not at all Courtney!- I said then- let's start with the basics. This tournament had 384 battlers. Randomly decided 128 contestants were placed in the bracket named "A" while the other 256 where placed in the "B" bracket. That means that the finalists have had to win 6 and 7 matches in order to be here today.
-With the only requirement being that the participants were younger than 25 years old, there were thousands of applications for it- she started- The level was so high that the Pokemon Association was forced to rise the number of selected battlers from the intended 256 to the mentioned 384.
-With that we get to talk about the two boys that were able to climb the ladder and get to the final match- I added- and those people are… Ash and Ruby.
-It was a relative surprise to have these two finalists in a tournament that had several Gym leaders and teenagers with several Gym badges participating, whole both were relatively unknown.
-And we say relatively because while Ash is a complete mystery, Ruby is the son of a Gym leader, Norman- Courtney added- a renowned Gym leader that specializes in Normal type pokemon.
-So why don't we start with the analysis of the two contestants?- I said- I really want to get my spotlight time.
The look she sent me for a second sent shivers to me, but as soon as it came it was replaced with a smile.
-Let's not forget who the stars of the show are today, Damian- she said- but sure, let's start with Ash.
-Well his performance has been nothing less than stellar, nobody knew who he was, but he has beaten 6 rivals so far- I said looking through my notes- and the most impressive stat is that he has never used more than 3 pokemon to beat the match. And it was only in the semifinal that he was forced to use his 3rd.
-Yes, so far the only pokemon that he has ever had to use are his Pikachu, an Ambipom, and a Donphan- Courtney didn't even need to read her notes- with these three pokemon he has beaten all his rivals, including Janine the Poison type Gym leader in the semifinals. With an aggressive style he has been able to overwhelm everyone in his path, to the point that it almost made it look easy.
-Seeing it from outside, his style was so aggressive and fast that his rivals did not have any other option than to go on the defensive from the very beginning- I said- they only had time to repel attacks, which led to some mistakes. Only Janine was able to withstand and put him on the defensive some time. And even then, he was able to come hold on and then come back.
-We are commenting it during the match that it was the first time that he had lost two pokemon in a row- she explained- but he then sent out his Donphan and beat the remaining 3 pokemon. It was curious since the last two pokemon, his Donphan and Janine's Crobat KOed each other.
-It was a great performance from him and Janine didn't do many mistakes either. It's just that Ash is amazing- I said before finishing- A truly spectacular battler, I would've loved to battle him.
-I'm sure you would have, and you were really close to it weren't you?- she asked, but the answer was not going to be the one she expected.
-Not really…- I answered and her face showed confusion- it seems that way, but it isn't.
-Well that is a surprise, but we'll come back to it later. Right now though, let's focus on your tournament and choice for the team shall we?- she asked, quickly recovering from her surprise- now it's really your time to shine.
-Sure, ask away! I will answer any question that you or any other person has for me.
-I am sure you say that since you know that we did an online survey on what the spectators would like to ask you- she said grabbing a piece of paper- we got more than a hundred different questions, but we'll ask you the more important ones in a minute. Before though I'll start with mine…
-Sure!
-What do you think of the competition?
-I think it is a nice competition, with a clear goal which is to find one of the youngest and strongest best battlers in the world- I answered- the level is really high, with several young Gym leaders participating, so I really think that it was a good idea.
-Why did you enter in it?- she asked.
-Well that is a good question. I have three reasons for that- I started- I think I am a pretty good battler and that I could help this great team be even better. The second is that part of their job is to help the professors and since my dream is to see Mew again, I think it would be an amazing opportunity for that. The third one is the simplest, I am very competitive and I wanted to prove myself against all these good trainers.
-Well these are perfectly understandable reasons- she said then- I must say that your style is quite interesting, could you tell us more about it?
-No point in hiding it anymore- I said chuckling- my style is somewhat the same as the others and not at the same time. I like being on the offensive always, but I have these two pokemon I like to use which are way more defensive than what everyone expects. Cloyster is an amazing physical tank and my Schuckle is really defensive too, which differs with the way everyone rises it.
-Now that you mentioned, there are several pokemon in your team that are quite rare if I can say so- she said- and that will link with the most asked question we received… why Magikarp?
-Well… that's a question I've answered a lot- I said then- She does not want to evolve, that's all. She is way past the level of becoming a strong Gyarados, but she does not want to. She's beaten a lot of strong pokemon, one or two Gyarados too when we trained, but against Ruby's Plusle I don't really think that a Gyarados could've done it any better.
-That is actually an interesting point, though it must've taken an extra effort to get it to be as strong as it is- she said- that's why I can understand if some people can wonder what would happen if that strong Magikarp evolved into a Gyarados.
-We'll only know when she decides to evolve, if she decides to do it.
-Let's go back to your team then… you have a Magikarp, a Schuckle and Roserade as you said and the final three are a Metagross, a Starmie and an attacking Cloyster? That is an interesting team to be sure. It really seemed that Cloyster was the pokemon that caused more problems to the others, due to its rarity I assume.
-Cloyster is an amazing defensive pokemon, but I used mine to attack- I said- It is an amazing sweeper if you are unprepared for it. And since it can withstand a lot of attacks it is very possible to get going and get an unstoppable momentum if you are careful and make intelligent plays.
-And it worked, didn't it?
-Yes, until I faced Ruby- I said with a chuckle- and it didn't work anymore.
I saw her looking at the time and I knew that my time in the spotlight had ended. The schedule for today was pretty tight between this presentations, highlights of the tournament and the two finalists and then on-site interviews with the fans that would be on the stadium.
-That sure has been an interesting conversation we had, so we will leave it here with one last fan made question… what it is that you love about battles?
-The challenge- I said- it's really fun and exciting to face someone and use all your resources the same way that your rival uses all the tricks it has in order to beat you. When I win a battle like that, which has happened a lot in this tournament, I can feel that I'm improving and that's the best feeling in the world for me.
-Well that was a magnificent answer if I can say so- she said- so I think it's time now to introduce the last finalist of the 10th Pokedex Holder Tournament don't you think?
-Sure Courtney- I said then- so let's start with this 15-year-old boy Ruby Maple. As we said before, he is the son of Norman, the Normal type Gym leader, considered to be one of the strongest ones out there.
-And this could suggest that he could be really strong- she continued- but here comes the weird part. Talking with people from his town we all got the same response, surprise.
-Indeed! He is strong, no one can deny that now, but for some reason every person that our reports got information from said how weird it was that a person that hated battles as much as he did, entered the tournament. Not to talk about how surprising it was to see him reach the final after beating so many skilled rivals.
-We must not forget that in the 2nd round he surprised everyone beating Misty, a specialist in Water type pokemon with 4 pokemon, including 2 water types himself- added Courtney.
-That was a complete surprise for sure, Misty seemed one of the main candidates to get to the final, but her run was cut short- I continued- In the next battle he had to fight against a Fire type specialist Flannery, but his time only 3 pokemon were enough to beat the fiery Gym leader.
-With the type advantage it seemed that it would be easier for him to beat it, but he surprised everyone using his Castform, Delcatty and cleaning up with his trusty Milotic instead of using Swampert who has a massive advantage against them- she explained- and in the quarter finals he used four again to beat Whitney a Normal-type specialist like his father.
-That might've given him some advantage, but both Gym leaders explained that their strategies are quite different so I'm sure he had to adapt some of his own- I said- and then our battle came. And he used all the pokemon he had registered for the battle.
-As the audience probably knows, the competitors must select 6 pokemon the day before the battle in the case they own more than 6- she explained- these pokemon can not be changed mid battle, since this would mean the disqualification of the contestant. Only the judges have this information so that nobody can give any information accidentally or not to the contestants. So far Ruby has used up to 7 pokemon in this tournament.
-That's right! He has used a Delcatty, a Mightyena, his water types Swampert and Milotic, his Castform, the Gardevoir he used in to beat my last pokemon and his Plusle- he said- thought he only used it against me three days ago. In his battle against me he opted for resting his Swampert in favour of his Plusle. This surprised me since I knew that Swampert is one of his strongests, but Plusle beat two of my pokemon with his Eeectric attacks and ability to evade moves like a professional.
-And since you talked about it, lets talk about that semifinal, arguably one of the best matches in this tournament…- she said- you said before that it seemed a close match, but it wasn't. What do you mean by that?
-As I said he didn't use one of his strongest and I never felt I was in control of the battle- I said- I started beating his Mightyena, but he came back and beat me just after it. I always felt that there was something I was missing. I don't think that he was giving his all in the battle, which does not mean that he was trying to lose. He wanted to win.
-That's strange… but it reminds me of what some of his friends said- she commented- like he didn't like to do it. Did it feel that way to you?
-I was concentrated on myself, so I couldn't honestly tell, but in the videos I've seen of him in the other battles, he doesn't move much, he does not gesticulate and he doesn't cheer when he wins- I said- the only gestures were praises to his pokemon when they win or fall KOed. Although the fact that he has his right arm in a sling might be the reason why this happens.
-That's may be true. We have no information on what it might have happened to him- she said writing something in a piece of paper- we will have to ask him again after the match what happened and if that affected his performance again. I say "again" since this question has appeared in nearly every interview, but he just brushed the topic aside like it was not important. But I don't think he is quite telling the truth.
-We'll have to wait and see then, but now… we will have a small break and we will back for the last 30 minutes before the great final of the 10th Pokedex Holder Tournament!
Sapphire's POV
-So here comes the last one- said a teasing Blue when she spotted Yellow arrive- saying good luck to your boyfriend perhaps?
-Stop teasing her Blue…- I said in an entertained tone when I saw her turn redder than her crush's namesake- we all know it's going to happen, but let her be.
-Not helping Sapphire- Yellow whispered when I felt a hand in my shoulder, when I looked I saw Crystal there.
-Should I mention that you were already here when I arrived?- she said in a teasing tone that she acquired in the last month or so.
-Maybe she was the one who went to visit another someone then…- teased Blue.
I think I frowned out of reflex. I barely slept tonight thinking about the battle, the outcome and what would happen afterwards. I had already decided to let Ruby explain everything he wanted, he was in the final, and I knew that his reasons must be important to do what he had done. But I was still nervous nonetheless.
-I didn't go… you should already know that by now- I said quite harshly.
-I was just teasing Sapphire, I didn't want to offend you- she said apologetically.
-I know Blue… I'm just nervous- I said.
-Nervous about what?- asked Emerald- Today we should just enjoy the battle. It's going to be a legendary one. Everything else is already sorted out.
-I know it is, and it's true that it should be an awesome battle- said Sapphire- But that's not what I was talking about.
-What then?-he asked again when Crystal grabbed his hand and pulled him away- Wait Crys where are we going?
-Just come.
After that I saw them stop somewhere far away so I couldn't hear what they were saying. But I didn't need to hear it to know the topic. Everyone knew about my feelings for both Rub and Ruby and how betrayed I felt back then. And even if it seemed that I had already forgiven him in the hospital, the fact that we couldn't clear everything just then made my worries arise. It was not that I didn't trust him, but the "what if" cases were eating me inside. And after 3 months and many sleepless nights I was scared. What if the reasons he had doing what he had done were not enough?
-It's nice to see her scold someone else- he said to lighten up the mood- Has anyone spoken with Norman or Caroline in the last days, though? They said that they would keep in contact, but since the tournament started two weeks ago I haven't heard anything.
-Sapphire has- Blue said, when I felt heat rising in my cheeks.
-I've just been talking to his mother… just asking about his arm and health- I said embarrassed.
-What did she say then?- Gold asked- I didn't think that it would take 3 months to recover.
-It will take his arm more than half a year to function as before- Crystal said then- his condition was just as bad as they pictured it in the hospital if not worse.
-Plus his training messed a little bit with his recovery so probably it will take him even longer than that- I said then looking at the arena where the battle will start in less than 20 minutes.
-It's nice to finally see him give his all without fear- said Green- at the very least I'm sure that no one will ever make fun of him calling him weak.
-That's true- I said then- he's always been awesome, but he forgot it.
-You really know him well Sapphire- said Yellow then sitting next to me- better than us.
-I thought I did…
-Do not worry too much Sapphire- she said quietly, knowing I would hear it- His reasons must be important, you also know it. Just relax and enjoy the battle. What come afterwards is up to him only.
-It feels weird to hear you something like that- I said then deciding to do what she said- you do not like battles that much.
-I do not enjoy hurting pokemon- she said- but this battle…
-It is one of the ones I want to see the most- I said- Only topped by the one Ruby and I will have after this is all over.
-Now that's the Sapphire I know- she said smiling.
After that, the boys left to grab drinks and Popcorn for everyone. At that moment, a reporter approached us, the same one that had come all those times. Of course, the reporter was bringing the cameraman along the way. I'd received my fair share of interviews over the course of the last 5 years, and I still get nervous about them. Luckily they did not seem to focus on one of us too much, I didn't have to do too many.
-Thanks for the introduction Courtney! As you said I am here with the other 9 protagonists in this day- Niche said- Of course I am talking about the PokeDex Holders. Almost all of them are here with me now, so I would like to ask their opinion on the magnificent battle that we are about to witness. Let's start with Blue! Who do you think will be the winner?
-Well… it's a difficult question. While Ash seems to have wiped the floor with every opponent he's had so far, I think Ruby still hasn't battled to his full potential yet- she said, clearly one of the most used to the interviews.
-Interesting opinion, quite similar to Damian's- Niche answered to the camera- What about you Gold? Same opinion?
- I understand that everyone is expecting Ash to be the winner, but we'll see- he answered- It's true though that Ruby will have to battle at his best, since he still doesn't know Ash's complete team.
-That is a valid point- Niche said then before adding- as you said, the public is really sure that the winner will be Ash since the survey shows that a 82% of the people in this stadium is expecting him to win. Now for the important questions, who do you WANT to be the winner, Emerald?
-I really do not care actually- he said with his hand behind his head- both seem to be good in my eyes.
-Good enough?- was the next question, which was directed at Green and Crystal.
-Battle wise, probably yes- he answered- but it will take a while until either of them is a true part of the team. We would still need to train really hard since we need to get used to him and whoever wins must get used to us as well.
-That's true, we can not expect a relationship that has been going on for more than 5 years to be built in a week- was Crystal's comment- but I still believe that they could fit well in our team.
-Well I had a lot more questions for all of you, but seems like time is running short- Niche said when the cameraman focused on me- so we'll end this with you Sapphire. What would you tell both of the participants before this final match?
That caught me on guard. I was not expecting to be the one to send a message to the battlers. I had my own problems to think about, but at the same time it was a perfect opportunity to send a message I had wanted to send for some days now.
-I would tell them to rethink if they really want to be one of us- I said- Being one of the Dexholders is not easy, if you're here just for the fame I advise you to forfeit now. Though if you really decide to battle, I ask you to forget everything else and show everyone how much do you really want to be a PokeDex Holder. If you get out and send your first pokemon, use everything you have to create the best pokemon battle anyone's ever seen.
-That sure is an exceptional speech!- Niche said to the camera- I just hope both of them still have the guts to come out and battle. And after wishing both participants all the luck in the world, I'm sending the connection back to you Courtney.
-Thanks guys for the interview!- Niche told us after the connection ended- I hope we enjoy a magnificent battle. By the way nice words Sapphire!
After telling our goodbyes, at least until the end of the tournament, where the final press conference would take place with all of us plus the winner. That's when I heard a "click" sound and a pokeball opened revealing an electric mouse with blue minus markings in her cheeks. When said rodent placed herself on top of my bandanna I heard a small gasp coming from my other blue eyed friend.
-And what is that cutie doing here Sapphire?- she said coming to pet it.
-It seems like this is my newest Pokemon, a Minun- I answered getting her in my hands- My dad gave me this pokeball yesterday after Ash's semifinal.
-She is a cutie!/Is she strong?- where the questions I got then.
-She is quite stronger that you would think, that is for sure- I said then petting her between the ears- and she is totally a cutie.
-It totally is- said another female voice from in front of us.
-Caroline?- I asked then- Papa?
All the professors, plus Norman and Caroline were inside the VIP area near us. The professors being there had been common during all of the battles that they saw, but it was a first time for Ruby's parents.
-Hello Sapphire and everyone of course- he said- we invited both Norman and Caroline to see the final match. Even Mr. Goodshow allowed it, he should be here in some minutes.
As they began to look for a place to sit, I saw Caroline approach us. To be more precise, she was approaching me.
-I think he received the message Sapphire- she said winking.
-I'm sure he did- I said.
-Yeah- she said petting the Minun on top of my head- He will win today, I'm sure of that.
-His rival is not weak- said my blonde haired friend by my side.
-I know he is not, but you all should already know how stubborn Ruby really is- she said- When he has his mind set on something, he gets it.
-He has a bad tendency of doing them alone though- I scoffed, without being able to stop myself.
-Yes, that's also true- she said chuckling- If everything goes well, I will leave it to you to help him fix it, okay?
The words were nothing too weird, but the smile she had said everything her words was. When I felt the heat in my cheeks rising I heard Blue laugh hysterically behind me as Caroline left with the professors and Norman who had been talking to Green and Gold.
-I love that woman!- she said after she calmed down.
It was at that moment that everyone shut up. A small figure had appeared in the battlefield in the middle of the stadium. Mr. Goodshow walked until he arrived into the very center of it. He really was a short man, but he also had somewhat of an imposing appearance.
-We're gathered here today to have fun and watch what is potentially the best pokemon battle of this whole tournament- he said- but let me take us back three months in time. Three months ago, the Pokemon Association and the Pokedex Holders were attacked by one extraordinarily strong enemy. If any of us had fallen it may happen, that the world we live in today would be completely different. Believe me, I saw it.
He stopped to catch a breath for a moment before continuing.
-That's why I'm here today to officially give my thanks to every police officer, doctor or nurse, any individual who helped us win that battle- he said- and every single one of the Gym leaders and each one of the Pokedex holders that gave their all so we could be here today. This applause is for each and everyone of them!
At that moment a huge applause resonated in the stadium. I wouldn't be surprised to know that a lot of people were applauding in their homes. We, of course, joined in it, we were a huge part in it, but alone, we would've lost.
-This said I want to tell everyone that we learn from our mistakes- he said- We can not completely avoid events like this from happening, but we can make our teams better and stronger. That's why this tournament has been created, so that the people that has saved the world twice can do it again! Their job is not an easy one, but they're not alone, they have the Association behind them every step of the way. And after today, they will have another member! Because if with 9 people they're the best team in the world, with 10 they will be unbeatable!
-The two finalist have both given their best and shown us some impressive battling skills- he continued- this is the final step of the easy part, but if they really want to be a Pokedex Holder, and here I will use some of Sapphire's words- he said before pausing- Ruby and Ash, show us how much do you want to become a Pokedex Holder.
At that moment three smoke explosions, one in each side of the battlefield and one in the center appeared and when they dissipated, everyone cheered.
-Sorry for using your words Sapphire, but they were really good- said Mr. Goodshow sitting in his place in front of us while withdrawing his Xatu.
-No problem- I said focusing on the battlefield.
Both Ash and Ruby had appeared in their respective sides. Ash was stretching while Ruby was admiring a pokeball in his right hand. Soon he put it back in his belt before looking around in the battlefield. At that moment two judges appeared in the middle of the battlefield. The battle was about to start!
Blue's POV
The tension and the ambience was amazing. After the super intense cheer when both Ruby and Ash appeared in the arena, but now both of them were in the middle of the arena talking to the two judges. After a brief moment both challengers shook their hands and went to their corners.
-So this is it ladies and gentlemen!- it was Courtney's voice that resonated from the speakers in the massive stadium we were in- Ruby is in the blue corner while Ash is in the red one. But it seems that Ash will be the one to send its first pokemon. Now before the battle starts let me ask you…. ARE YOU READY?
-YEAH!- was a massive shout from the audience.
-Let's try again like you are about to see the best battle of the decade okay?- said the other commentator, Damian- ARE! YOU! READY?
YEAAAAAAAAH!- the anticipation was so great that the roar was spectacular, even all the DexHolders joined in it.
-Then the final match of this tournament- Courtney yelled- with no substitutions…. Shall START!
-Go Ambipom!
As soon as it started, Ash sent out his Ambipom to the field. It really had been bad luck for him to have to start, but since Ruby only knew a few of his pokemon he just sent out one of the ones he had used the most.
-Nana, battle stance!- and with the wolf gracefully landed in front of him.
-So a Mightyena against Ambipom, interesting battle.
-Ambipom start with Double Hit!
-Nana!
As soon as Ruby yelled the wolf's name, it sent a malicious glare towards its opponent. It had used its ability Intimidate. This lowered its foe's willingness to fight for a second, which meant that when its attacks would hit, she would receive less damage.
-Ambipom use Fury Swipes!
-Dodge right!
-Iron Tail!
-Use Roar!
After the wolf pokemon was able to dodge the barrage of swipes that was coming her way, Ash's Ambipom slammed onto her using his two metal tails. It was a massive hit, but the wolf recovered and sent a massive roar that made the pokemon retreat into the pokeball.
-Nice move- said Crystal- this is a good way to see what other pokemon Ash has in store for him- and he does need the information.
It was true, when Roar is used, the pokemon is scared into a retreat. If the pokemon is strong enough no pokemon will willingly come out to battle, forcing the trainer to send another one out. If there is stronger pokemon in the other party though, one will come forth to face the challenge. And that's what happened.
-Snorlaaax!
And thus, Ash's Snorlax went onto the field, ready to battle the Mightyena. Looking at Ash's direction I saw him frown a little bit before recovering.
-Snorlax use Body slam!- he yelled fast.
-Nana dodge and Intimidate!
Ruby was not fazed by the attack, but his expression became worse when the Mightyena was slammed onto the floor. As the wolf tried to stand up sparks of electricity rose from her body meaning that the first attack that Snorlax had landed had been able to paralyze her.
-Snorlax continue with Ice punch!
-Nana use Roar again!
At the surprise of everyone the wolf pokemon had been able to withstand the monstrous attack and used Roar again, forcing the massive pokemon into its pokeball again. When the next pokemon touched the field, I saw Ruby smirking and Ash really pissed.
-Tile!- a green lizard had appeared ready to fight.
-Ruby's been able to unmask two of Ash's unused pokemon thus far- said the commenter, Damian- he's playing a dangerous game, but his pokemon are doing a massive scouting job so far.
-Sceptile start spinning around him using Agility!- was Ash's commands.
-Nana spin around using Sand attack!
As the wolf started to spin around, but was paralyzed in the middle of it.
-That's bad luck- said Sapphire.
-Ash was lucky with the paralysis… let's see how Ruby manages.
-Use Odor Sleuth to track him down!
-Barrage him with Bullet Seed!
-Jump!
-Smack her down with Leaf blade!
-Defend with Iron tail! Throw it to the floor!
Using the metallic tail, the wolf swiftly deflected the attack all the while directing all of Sceptile's momentum towards the floor. As the wolf landed Ruby wasted no time before calling for the next attack.
-Roar!
-Sceptile use Bullet Seed!
Since Sceptile's position was too far away to strike a physical blow before Nana Roared him out of the battle, Ash used a range attack in order to hurt the Mightyena as much as it could. Both attacks landed, and this time Nana seemed really worn down. And it became more apparent when the pokemon that came to battle her, was none other than the first opponent she had.
-And Ambipom is sent out again!- commented Courtney- Will the Mightyena be able to Roar effectively again?
-I don't think he will even try it again- said Green.
-Yeah, I would make her try to beat Ambipom if it was me, but…- were Gold's words- I don't think they can.
-We'll see… he's accomplished more with one pokemon than all of the others opponent's that Ash has had so far- said Emerald then and I had to agree.
At that moment Ash made the Ambipom use Agility to get close to the Mightyena, Ruby made her pokemon Intimidate it again before using Odor Sleuth. The Ambipom flinched, but that didn't stop the monkey from getting there in a second. As soon as it got close it started a barrage of Fury swipes from both pokemon. It seemed a stalemate for a second, but then Nana got paralyzed. As soon as Ash saw that, he commanded Ambipom to use Brick break on the wolf pokemon sending her flying towards Ruby's feet.
-C'mon Nana, one last effort!- Ruby said- rise and use Hyperbeam!
The wolf slowly rose from the floor and when she was up she started charging her strongest attack.
-Dodge with Agility!
-Fire!
At that moment Ataro disappeared again. Nana kept charging the beam for a moment longer until firing a massive multicolored beam. Ataro being nowhere to be found made it more surprising to everyone when the attack somehow impacted on him anyway. The monkey pokemon landed roughly and struggled a little after receiving the massive impact of the Hyperbeam.
-Wow! Such a massive hit from Ruby ladies and gentlemen!- Courtney yelled in awe- But wait look! It's down, the Mightyena has fallen.
-Yes it seems that the Ruby's Mightyena had received a lot of damage already and used the last of her reserves on that Hyperbeam- continued Damian- That is one pokemon down for Ruby!
-Indeed, but Nana has been amazing- said Sapphire then.
-He's gained a lot of information- said Silver- it all depends on how well will he be able to use it from now on.
-He is quite good at planning fast- said Crystal- let's see how fast he can be.
-Let's not forget that his rival is amazing as well- said Gold as Yellow nodded- We've been anticipating this battle for years for a reason, I don't think Ruby will be the only one to adapt either.
-For sure not Gold- ended Yellow when Ruby thanked his fallen pokemon and grabbed another pokeball- it's still far from over.
Silver's POV
-C'mon Coco, battle stance!
-And the next pokemon to enter the field is Ruby's Delcatty- said Courtney then- what can we expect form this battle?
-Well Delcattys are not known for their power, but I was sure surprised to see the amount she's got- answered her companion- plus she is very agile, letting her dodge most of moves.
-Coco, let's start with Double-slap!
-Ambipom use Double team!
-Change to Feint attack! To the one on your right!
Turning faster than I imagined, the cat pokemon made contact with the Ambipom, but a puff of smoke was created. The Delcatty had delivered a blow to a clone, missing its target.
-Ambipom attack with Double-edge!
-Backflip and Double Slap!
-Use your own Fury Swipes!
To many things happened so fast that I do not think that everyone was able to keep up. First, the clone behind Coco charged towards her at blinding speed. Coco was able to dodge using a perfectly executed backflip before charging towards Ambipom with Double Slap, who turned and delivered its own Fury Swipes at her. They kept exchanging blows one after the other when, suddenly Ambipom stopped. This caused Coco to hit him multiple times until throwing him to the floor.
-Cute charm- was Green's comment- the amount of hits rose the probability of the infatuation taking effect to rise.
-Now the enhanced speed he got will mean nothing if he can not attack- said Emerald.
-Ambipom use Baton Pass!
-And now it's Ash who withdraws his pokemon- said Courtney- is he allowed to do that?
-Yes, because Baton Pass does not let him choose a pokemon- argued her companion, a complete truth- and the pokemon who is out is none other than Donphan!
-Okay Coco let's try to beat it- said Ruby then, his confidence intact.
-Like we will let you do it- answered his rival- Donphan start with Defense Curl.
-I'm not expecting you to let me- was Ruby's reply- Coco use Sing!
-Rollout to dodge!
Spinning fast towards his right the elephant pokemon evaded the attack and approached the Delcatty, who stood impassive in front of her trainer. Then everything accelerated again.
-Dodge right.
-Change into Stomp!
-Deflect with Iron Tail!
-Horn attack!
The succession of movements ended with Donphan landing flat to the floor while Coco was also propelled backwards after receiving a Horn attack. Both Pokemon had been quite hurt, but Coco had received good hits against Ambipom. She was in a clear disadvantage.
-Now Coco get up and get close to it!- commanded Ruby.
-Trap her with Rock Tomb!
-Stop Coco!
That seemed like the worst move he could've done since as soon as he stopped the rocks rose from under the floor effectively trapping her.
-And the Delcatty is trapped! What will Ruby do?
-If Ash uses Earthquake it's over for Coco- said Gold then.
-Yeah…- was Sapphire's comment, she was torn in this specific moment.
-Earthquake Donphan!
-We've been in this situation before- said Ruby- so let's do the same, burst the front door Coco!
Nobody knew what he meant with that comment, but everyone was surprised after seeing what happened. A metallic tail cut the base of the rock in front of it before smashing it towards the Donphan in a barrage of boulders. Since it had jumped, the damage of the Earthquake was minimal, while using an elegance and agility that amazed the audience for sure, leapt towards the elephant pokemon.
-Donphan use Rollout!
-Use Assist!
The Pokemon were really close when Ruby shouted the command. It seemed kind of random, but when thinking about his team, Ruby had 3 pokemon who knew strong water or ice type moves, which made it really threatening for the Donphan. Even more when said attack became the best option of them all… Blizzard!
-And the attack becomes a Blizzard! Such luck from Ruby's side!- commented Courtney from her position.
-A little bit of luck, yes… but not too much- said Crystal- considering his team I mean.
-Poor Rono…- said Sapphire then.
After that the Blizzard started dying out, everyone expected to see Coco victorious, but then Ash send a command that surprised everyone.
-Flail Donphan!
And using a speed not natural to the species, a very angry elephant charged towards the Delcatty and used his horn to send her towards the wall, effectively KOing the feline pokemon.
-WOW ladies and gentlemen! Everything seemed lost, but Donphan managed to hang on!- yelled Courtney when a massive roar of applause happened, when it started to stop she asked the question that was on the mind of 90% of the stadium- How could he hang on?
-The only possible answer is Endure- Damian answered in an amazed tone- that makes it 2-0 for Ash's side. Though this Donphan is almost out…
-But that was a magnificent performance they showed us, the Delcatty was almost able to KO a pokemon after fighting with another- she replied.
-Let's say that the battle is much closer than the fainted pokemon show- said Damian as Courtney continued.
-And the pokemon that can be the last one before the battle's break is… Ruby's Gardevoir!
-So Gardevoir is out already?- asked Blue then- she is probably one of his strongest for sure!
-His pokemon did well, but he is in a dire situation- I answered- He really needs to start KOing Ash's pokemon before it gets too out of hand.
-The battle is close, but Silver is right- added Green- Ruby acquired a lot of knowledge, but at the cost of one pokemon. And now his Delcatty fainted too, he must turn the momentum in his favor soon, because as we all know, his rival will not hand it to him.
-That is true… let's see how it plays out!
Gold's POV
-Ruru start with Psybeam!
-Dodge Rono… and then use Rollout into Flail again!
-Keep firing them!
The speed that the Donphan was moving at was impressive! Try as the majestic Gardevoir might, she could not hit her foe. Being an attacker, Ruru's would receive massive damage from the Flail. Even that Ruby didn't seem fazed at all seeing his pokemon miss so many times while the attack was imminent! At the distance they were at, there was no way that the attack could be dodged anymore.
-Psychic!
-What?-was Sapphire's surprise then- Donphans are quite heavy, how is that possible?
Much to the surprise of everyone in the stadium, Ruru was able to stop the Donphan's massive momentum and lift it half a meter from the ground. All in the span of three seconds. You could see in Donphan's face that it was struggling to move, but with no effect.
-He did say that his Kirlia was the strongest in the world- said Green then.
-And that when evolved it might also be the strongest Gardevoir out there too- finished Blue- it did something as amazing as that without breaking a sweat.
-What should be do now Ash?- asked Ruby all of a sudden- This Donphan can not move. It is already beaten, but I think we can spare him the KO, don't you think?
-He battled well- Ash added then grabbing a pokeball- And I know that it would suffer for nothing. Come back Donphan, you were great!
-So Ash recalls his Donphan, technically giving Ruby's first KO of the final- exclaimed Courtney.
-A really good show of sportsmanship and common sense- added Damian- no point in making the pokemon suffer in this state. Let's see what is Ash's next pokemon, even though I have a clear opinion on it.
-Everyone does, he will use Ambipom to try and beat it- I said- this way he will not be giving too much information.
-No doubts about it.
-Go Ambipom!- was Ash's command, as expected.
-Let's not forget that Ambipom is quite hurt already- said Emerald then- He needs to accomplish something with it to keep his advantage.
-He will do it- replied Yellow then.
-Ambipom use Swift!
-Break the stars with Magical Leaf!
-Get close with Quick attack!
-Prepare both hands Ruru!
-Agility into Brick break!
-Teleport!
And at that moment, Ruru disappeared from sight. In a split second, she reappeared behind the ape with both hands glowing, one with incandescent aura and a gelid one in her left one.
-Protect Ambipom!
As Ruru slammed her hands down towards the ape, this one used protect. The barrier lasted just enough for Ambipom to be able to retreat and go underground using dig.
-That was fast, I do not think that Ruru has a move that she can use in this situation- said Crystal then.
-It does not know Earthquake at least- said Silver- or it shouldn't.
-Calm mind!
At that moment, Ruru closed her eyes. Crossing both feet in a meditating position, it started glowing with a marvelous purple color. But the part the started glowing the most was her red horn.
-That was beautiful, but at the same time not that useful… or was it?
-I don't know…. It was weird- said Sapphire- Ruby also closed his eyes.
-Finish the Dig and Iron tail!
The speed at which Ambipom attacked and the power behind his tail seemed to be astonishing, but without receiving a command from her trainer it create a black energy ball, Shadow ball in front of her and shot it towards Ambipom. The attack was not going to damage Ambipom at all, but what nor Ash or any of us expected was that it was aimed at his feet.
When it touched the ground, it created a small explosion sending Ambipom off balance and lowering both his speed and power. At that point it used Psychic again keeping the pokemon midair. While it seemed that the battle would end up just like the previous round, Ash had a trick up his sleeve.
-Hyperbeam!
The attack was so close and so massive that it seemed impossible for Ruru to avoid it, but in a flash it disappeared
-What?- gasped Emerald- but Ruby did not say…
-Behind him!- interrupted Crystal.
-Protect again!
And sure enough Ruru reappeared behind the ape pokemon with both fists glowing just like before. After unleashing such an attack, Ambipom could not muster enough energy to create the blue-green barrier and was struck with both fists, clearly KOing it.
-And that equalizes the match with 2 KOs for both finalists! Ash started with a 2-0 score, but Ruby was able to get it even without letting his Gardevoir receive a single hit from his opponents.
-And not only that, but the Gardevoir seemed to be battling on her own in the last one- continued Damian- Or is it just me?
-No it's not just him- answered Green, only for us to hear- Ruby didn't say a single command for a while. I don't know what to think about it though we'll have to keep track of that. It may be something amazing.
-Or just another one of his plans- said Emerald thinking.
-It has to be both- said Sapphire then- there is no way he came into this battle without at least several plans and strategies in his pocket.
-That is so true…
-Well looks like I'll have to use this one now- were Ash's sudden words, you could feel the excitement in his voice- Go Snorlax!
Red's POV
Snorlax, probably my team's ace right now. One of my real team's strongest pokemon and my only pokemon in this team of 6. I'd had this pokemon since I was 7 years old when I found him asleep next to a river in my town. He's grown so strong in the last years, becoming one of my team's powerhouses for sure. He is so strong, but so bulky that it becomes an utter menace to any opponent that stands in our way.
I'd really planned to use him later, but Ruby's Gardevoir is a real problem.
-Snorlax, let's beat this Gardevoir!
-Laaax…- grunted the massive pokemon as it stood ready for battle.
-Snorlax start with Mega Punch!
I was expecting Ruby to yell a command, but it never came. But the attack was not able to connect either, since the veiled pokemon stepped back before firing a Psybeam at me. Lax was more than strong enough to break through it though, but as soon as it seemed that the attack would land the Gardevoir disappeared.
-Thunderbolt!
Only to appear behind my beastly pokemon and fired a strong Thunderbolt that struck my pokemon's back.
-Ice punch!
-Deflect with Psybeam!
-Body slam!
-Psybeam!
What the hell was happening with this Gardevoir? Ruby was just calling for attacks, but somehow she was teleporting away without a single command. It's not unheard of for the pokemon to act freely in a battle, but she was always positioned in the best possible point to counter attack without Lax being able to punish it. I know she was getting tired little by little, and I was getting a good grasp on her teleport timing but the precision was very troublesome.
-Snorlax get close with Roll out!
-Teleport!
The only way to be able to land hits was for Lax to get faster and, thus, be able to close the distance, so I made him gain momentum. The more and more he got, the faster he was becoming and stronger the hit the Gardevoir would take if the attack hit. But it wasn't hitting. Normally I would be trying to trick the enemy into a pattern I could follow and predict, but against a teleporting one, this was not an option. So I took the only path I could.
-Earthquake!
-Ruru use Psybeam!
As soon as the ground started shaking furiously, the veiled pokemon disappeared. Being a known combo we had practiced, Lax was already preparing its next attack so as soon as the Gardevoir appeared above him to fire a potent Psybeam, Snorlax unleashed its own Hyperbeam.
-And the Gardevoir receives a hit for the first time today!- yelled Courtney.
-And it's a massive one! I wouldn't be surprised to see that it is a instant KO for Ash-commented her companion- That was such a powerful attack, she received.
-Now Snorlax use Rest!- I commanded, I had figured out how to battle this foe, it was time to restart the battle and win it! Or so I thought!
-Why is Ash Resting Snorlax now? He just landed its first hit on its foe- asked Courtney.
-Snorlax had suffered some big hit already, and seems like it has figured out how to land attacks now.
-Recover Gardevoir!- yelled Ruby then when the veiled pokemon closed its eyes too and glowed a beautiful yellow color.
I was prepared for that though!
-Use Snore!
-Continue with the Recover!
-Snore again!
-Recover!
He was easily cancelling my damage, but Snore was not an attack right now, it was just an stop for Snorlax to recover to full while he could not attack me. And surprisingly enough, I had fooled him with that. And then Snorlax woke up!
-We are ready for another round, aren't we Snorlax?- I asked confident when my pokemon nodded bravely- use Megapunch!
-Teleport!
-Megakick behind you!
-Fire Punch it!
-Stop into Earthquake!- I said and my trusty friend did just that.
-Disable!
And that changed everything for me. The attack that was going to shake the very foundations of the stadium we were fighting on, forcing the Gardevoir to Teleport or jump to avoid it, never happened. And the worse part is that it would not happen anymore for some minutes.
-Ditty prepare a protect- I said in a very low voice- Snorlax use Rollout again!
-Psybeam to the floor!
The Psybeam created a crater in front of the massive rolling pokemon that made it lose balance and fall flat in front of the Gardevoir.
-Psychic!
With that the veiled pokemon started lifting Snorlax up little by little, showing its immense power. But I was not done yet. She was completely aligned, in perfect position. Will he do it? Will he dare? Let's find out.
-Hyper Beam!
-Teleport!
He did not even hesitate, and there was no way he didn't know the consequences of yelling that command. And it happened quite fast… he jumped aside yelling Ruru to use both Fire Punch and Ice Punch at my defenseless pokemon, but he just was not defenseless. I'd seen him attack after a Hyperbeam once, and Sapphire had told us that he had used it some other times in a contest. I was just giving him some of his medicine.
-Explosion!
After the massive explosion took place, the whole battlefield was engulfed with dust and smoke. With how close both pokemon were from me, I could've received a lot of damage, had it not been for Ditty's protection. That's the whole reason why, when everything cleared, I was still standing on the battlefield, with only some scratches on me. As for the battle, nothing unexpected happened, both pokemon had been KOed by the force of the attack, ending this first half with a tie.
-And… well after this massive turn of events that accelerated a battle that seemed it would go on for a long time, the result is that both Ruby and Ash still have 3 pokemon KOed- started Courtney.
-And that means that we will have a break since we achieved the middle point of the battle- continued her colleague- we will have a short publicity break and we'll be back to comment what has happened and the end of this amazing battle.
-Please stay tuned! We'll be back in 5 minutes.
After a brief look towards my rival, who returned it with an impassive glance, I went towards my locker. I wanted to drink some water and relax a little bit since my battle plan was already made, more with the information he had gathered so far. I only had to follow it to win. With that in mind I entered my changing room.
-What the fuck Red?- was the voice I heard when I entered. The curses seemed so out of place in Yellow's mouth that I was taken aback.
-Wh- what do you mean?- I asked then when I saw her coming at me with a decided pace.
-What was that? Making Lax explode when he was just some feet away from you?- she asked angrily- Why?
-Well, Ruru was overpowering us too much, we needed to KO her at all costs so it wouldn't…
-I'm not talking about that! I know why you had to do it!- she yelled in front of me- My question is why you commanded him to do it when he was just in front of you!
-I knew that Ditty would protect me- I said- I had everything planned out!
-Still… why take such risks, why make us worry? It is a simple tournament right now… the battle you always wanted- she said- You vs Ruby to see who the best is. But no one has to go that far.
-He wants to win so badly that he risked being caught with a Hyperbeam- I said then- If he shows that much determination, I will do the same myself. I have to. For what he knows, this might be one of the most important battles of his life.
-I know that…- she said then pulling me to the bench where she sat next to me- I know you are like this, and I like it most of the time.
Then she started rolling the end of my trousers until she revealed a bruise in my right leg, just below the knee. She then closed her eyes and put her hands just over it. I knew what she was doing.
-Hey, Yellow stop. It doesn't hurt.
-You were limping on your way back- she said with her eyes still closed.
-But you'll be tired after this, you know this uses a lot more energy…
-STOP!- she yelled then, she had tears in her eyes.
-What…
-I know how you are… I know how strong minded and kind you are. And I know you would not disrespect Ruby by battling half-heartedly when he thinks that he is risking everything in this battle- she said- I understand why you made Lax explode just in front of you for that very reason, since you too want to win this battle. I accept it, do everything you can to win every battle you want to win. But please… at least let me keep you safe when you are doing it!
-What do you mean?
-Let me help, let me in on it. If you plan to take risks, I want to be there- she said almost crying- to help, to heal, to beat the crap out of the person that is threatening you… Just don't leave me out… I'm strong too, I've improved my healing, my battling so I could fight alongside you and the others. Please do not be the one to underestimate me…
It broke my heart to see her cry like that… I did not underestimate her at all, but looking back I could see why she said that. Maybe I'd done the same mistake with her that Green had done with all of us.
-I'm not underestimating you at all Yellow- I said then- it's just that I don't want you to get hurt. I know how strong you are and how much you've improved, I don't underestimate you, maybe I'm just a little bit overprotective of you.
-Why is that Red?- she asked then when she finished healing my leg.
-I will tell you after I win this battle- I said then grabbing her hand- For now I'll say that I'm sorry I made you feel like that. I will not do it again.
-Thanks…- she said then, some of her shyness returning- I'll have to go now… I'm sorry I took away all your resting time…
-I'm glad you did- I said smiling when I saw her leaving- please tell the others I'm okay, and that I'm sorry for making them worry.
-I will and Red…- she said then not looking back at me- after the battle, whether you win or lose… I've got something important to tell you.
-Sure… I'll win though.
-I'm sure you will!
And closure... for now! Don't worry though I have the last chapter 95 % complete so expect the last chapter to be out very, very soon. I hope you liked it and you love the finale. I had so much fun writing this one after I regained interest in everything again. To everyone that has waited, patiently or not so much, thank you very much. Thanks and see you in the last chapter of this fic, one of the most interesting things I've ever tried.
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