Island Champion's Return

by Wiley E Coyote

Before he could start his journey, Ash moved to the Alola Region. There he would meet new friends, go to school, and explore the islands of Alola. Years later, Ash has returned to Kanto and gathered all the badges. Now, he's at the Indigo Plateau, ready to compete for his shot to become the Indigo League Champion. [One-Shot]

Island Champion's Return

I love the Sun and Moon anime. It is just so happy, and I spend just about every episode with a giant smile on my face. Anyways, Alola is my favorite region and the cast of the anime is my favorite of Ash's friends. To set things up, Ash had moved to the Alola region when he was about 10 years old. So, Ash starts his journey in Alola while attending the Pokemon school where because of Kukui's lessons, Ash starts the island trials much better than he first started. I'm thinking of his journey as a mix of the anime and games, so he dealt with the Ultra Beasts and legendaries. He's going to have pretty much all of the z-crystals and some surprising Pokemon along with most of the Pokemon that he caught in the Anime (though I can't guarantee that I will have him use all of them). 3 years later, Ash finally returns to the Kanto region to compete in the league. I'm not going to go through the journey at all and just head straight to the league. I do not own Pokemon and any and all pokedex entries I use are from Bulbapedia. Also, I'm giving most of the Pokemon 6 to 8 moves. It's a lot easier to keep track of than 50 moves, but it also gives more variety.

Key:

"Talking"

"Writing/Thoughts"

Flashback

*Sound Effects*

Chapter Begin:

"But I don't want to leave, Mom!" A young boy shouted at his mother as she packed up their kitchen.

"I'm sorry, Ash," she said somberly. "The restaurant is just not doing so well, but a customer turned out to be the son of an owner of a restaurant in the Alola region. When he heard about the troubles we are having, he called his father who offered me a job there. It pays better, and a house is for sale nearby, so I accepted."

"But what about my journey? I only have 3 years until I can start," Ash asked.

"You'll actually get to start your journey early, sort of," his mother explained resting her hand on her cheek getting a confused but excited look from her son. "When I brought this up to Ulu, he said something about island trials in place of gyms. When a child turns 10, they are presented with a Pokemon and can take part in them. If you complete them, you apparently get some sort of reward."

"Awesome," Ash shouted.

"Yes, but don't think that you can just run off on your own. According to Ulu, the trials take time to get started. You can't just run up and challenge them, so I enrolled you into the Pokemon school to help pass the time," Delia said.

"Oh man, I got to go back to school," Ash complained.

"I know you won't like it, but I think it will be good for you. The classes are apparently much more hands on than they are here. The regional professor, Professor Kukui, is the teacher for your class," Delia explained.

"Alright, mom. If you say so," Ash mumbled, head down.

"Don't think we're going alone," Delia said, causing her son to look at her confused. "I talked to Professor Oak and he told me about a certain Pokemon you've been having some adventures with. He agreed to let him come with us as your first pokemon."

"You mean…" Ash started before he felt his hat be taken.

"Pika!" A voice squeaks as a yellow mouse jumped onto the counter wearing a cap loosely on his head.

"Pikachu!"

*Smack*

"Pikachu, that hurt!" Ash yelled, rubbing his head. He was dressed in a blue and white striped shirt and brown capris. Around his left wrist was a black bracelet with a yellow crystal. As he got off the bed, he grabbed a pair of blue sneakers.

"Pika Pikachu," the rodent spoke indignantly.

"I'm sorry Ash," a soft voice said. It was a thirteen-year-old blue-haired girl with a yellow decoration in her hair. She was dressed in a white sleeveless shirt, blue pants with a wave pattern on the legs, and blue sandals. Notably, she had a small cape around her shoulders and a blue bracelet on her left wrist similar to Ash's. "When I told Pikachu to wake you up, I didn't expect him to hit you with an iron tail."

"Priiim," a blue mermaid-like pokemon chided the electric type who looked embarrassed as it rubbed its head.

"It's alright, Lana. I guess I was too lost in my dream," Ash said rubbing the bump on his head.

"Primarina, can I get a chunk of ice?" Lana asked her partner cupping her hands.

"Prima," Primarina sang as she created an ice-blue beam of light into her trainer's hand. A small piece of ice formed in her hands.

"Thanks," Lana said, placing the ice gently on Ash's head, getting a relieved groan from Ash.

"Thanks, Lana. I don't know what I would do without you," Ash said getting an unseen blush from the girl.

"Ash, despite any anger you have, Pikachu had a very good reason for waking you up like that. Your first match starts in a few hours and you still haven't decided who you're going to use for your battle in the preliminary," a floating device spoke displaying the time.

"I decided who I was going to use last night with Lana after reviewing which field I'm on," Ash said, taking the ice from Lana and heading towards the kitchen and pouring himself a bowl of cereal. "I appreciate the effort you guys took to wake me up, but it's going to be ok. I still have time before I have to go and I have no doubt that everyone will do their best." Ash reassured the pokedex as several of his pokeballs shook positively on the table.

"We still should get going. I got a message that Lillie is going to be arriving soon. We don't want to keep them waiting," Lana said.

"Really," Ash said shoveling his food into his mouth at sonic speeds. "It's been so long since we've seen them. Come on, let's go see our friends!" Ash said, grabbing his friend's hand and dragging her towards the door.

"Ash, I can walk on my own," Lana shouted at him struggling to keep up.

"Wait up, Ash!" Rotom Dex shouted, flying after them. Pikachu and Primarina followed close behind. "That boy never slows down. How does Lana and Lillie deal with him?"

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Where are they? You said that they would be around here, right?" Ash asked looking around the clearing.

"Well, they could be running a little behind or they could have gotten lost," Rotom Dex said.

"Or they could have ran into a Zekrom and got blasted out of the sky," Lana murmured menacingly with eerie music floating through the clearing.

"Eh/Pika!?" Rotom Dex and Pikachu squeaked hiding behind Primarina.

"Just kidding," Lana said, sticking out her tongue.

"You'd think after 3 years, they would learn by now," Ash said, pecking the girl's cheek getting a large blush from the girl. "Good work on the music, Primarina."

"Prim," she sang happily.

"Pika," Pikachu mumbled, rubbing the back of his head. His ears perked up as a sound filled the clearing. "Pikachu!" he yelled, jumping on Ash's shoulder.

"What's up, Pikachu?" Ash asked.

"Pika pi," Pikachu said pointing towards the sky. Soon after, a high-tech airplane flew above the clearing.

"It looks like they're here," Lana said.

"Lillie, we're down here!" Ash shouted, waving his arms excitedly. Pikachu copying his partner's movements. The plane quickly landed allowing the passengers to depart.

"Alola Lillie!" Ash said as the door opened.

"Alola/Tsareena!" A green haired girl said jumping out of the plane with a bipedal Pokémon following behind.

"Mallow, Tsareena! I thought you were going to be busy with the restaurant?" Ash asked.

"Dad was able to get a few extra hands to help out. Plus, there's no way I'm going to miss my little brother crushing everyone in his second league," Mallow said before gesturing towards the plane. "Besides I'm not the only one who hitched a ride."

"Don't tell me…" Ash started.

"Alola!" A group of teenagers and Pokémon shouted piling out of the plane.

"Kiawe, Sophocles, Lillie, it's so good to see you guys," Ash said, clasping hands with Kiawe. A ball of fur and spikes rammed into Pikachu knocking him off of Ash's shoulder before snuggling against the Pokemon. "It looks like Togedemaru is excited to see Pikachu."

"She really missed him," Sophocles explained.

"So what are you guys doing here? I thought that you were all busy," Ash said.

"Well, we weren't going to just stay and watch the league at home when you were competing in it. When we heard that Lillie was heading over to Kanto to cheer you on, we asked if we could come with," Kiawe said. Ash turned to Lillie and held out a hand.

"Come on, aren't you going to at least hug your boyfriend," Ash asked teasingly.

"Ash, it's so good to see you," Lillie said jumping into his arms. "Lana was so lucky to get to travel with you."

"Yeah, well after this, I'm going back to Alola for a bit before going to another region. I was wondering if you would like to join me and Lana when we do?" Ash asked getting a squeal and kiss for his question. "I'll take that as a yes." Ash soon was occupied by his two girlfriends as they started to compete for his attention.

"I still don't understand how Ash managed to get both Lana and Lillie," Sophocles muttered to himself.

"I don't get it and I lived with the guy. When I asked Lana or Lillie, they got this secretive look. It's so frustrating," Mallow complained overhearing the boy.

"I'm just surprised that Ash was able to recognize that they both have feelings for him and he was able to convince them to share. I just hope he keeps them happy," Kiawe said looking at the trio.

"This is Ash we're talking about. He may be careless and tactless at times, but he literally fought several Legends and unknown Pokemon just to protect any of us," Mallow defended.

"Hey guys, is anyone else coming over?" Ash asked.

"Professor Kukui couldn't make it quite yet. He says he has a few errands before he could come here. He said that he would be here with Professor Burnet after the preliminary rounds," Sophocles explained looking down.

"Ah man, and I was looking forward to seeing Papa Kukui and Mama Burnet after all this time. I promise that I won't let you down!" Ash said.

*Ring Ring*

"Ash, not to kill the heartwarming reunion, but we need to head back to the stadium or you'll be late for your match," Rotom Dex reminded, displaying the time again.

"Right," Ash said seriously before turning to his friends. "We'll catch up after my match. Until then, watch me as I show the strength of Alola!"

"Yeah!"

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Welcome everyone to the first round of the Indigo League! We've had a few exciting matches so far! Let's see how our trainers do on the water field!" The announcer shouted. "From Viridian City, we have a returning fan favorite, the Amazing Mandi!" The crowd cheered as a green haired man walked on the field and performed a bow. "And from the far off Alola Region, we have Ash Ketchum from Melemele Island." A much quieter applause was present as Ash walked out onto the field, Pikachu on his shoulder and Rotom Dex floating beside them.

Up in the stands, Ash's friends all were watching the battle.

"So how do you think that Ash will do?" Sophocles asked, Togedemaru, dancing on his head.

"Ash will be fine. Just looking at his opponent, I can tell he doesn't have near the same amount of passion that Ash has for training," Kiawe said.

"Lana, you travelled with Ash through Kanto. How much trouble do you think Ash will have?" Lillie asked the bluenett.

"Ash is going to crush him," Lana said darkly, sending shivers down everyone's spine.

Back to the battlefield, the two trainers were sizing each other up.

"A kid is my opponent. This won't even be a challenge," Mandi said arrogantly making Ash and Pikachu growl.

"This will be a 3 on 3 battle with substitutions, Mega Evolution and Z-moves are allowed," the referee shouted. "Trainers release your Pokémon."

"Exeggutor, come out!" Mandi yelled, releasing his Pokemon onto a platform.

"Araquanid, I need your assistance!" Ash said, throwing a net ball. Out of it came a giant 10 ft tall water-spider Pokemon with a bubble over its head. It sunk into the water so only its head was above the water.

"What kind of Pokemon is that!?" Mandi shouted.

"Exegg," Mandi's Pokemon said, taking a step back in fear.

"Rotom Dex, if you would?" Ash asked.

"It would be my pleasure," it said as it brought up a picture of Araquanid. "Araquanid, the Water Bubble Pokemon, a water and bug type. Despite what its appearance suggests, it cares for others. If it finds vulnerable, weak Pokemon, it protectively brings them into its water bubble. It should be noted that this Araquanid is double the size of a normal one."

"Thanks for the tips. This will be easy," Mandi said.

"I meant for you to scan Exeggutor," Ash reprimanded.

"Pika," Pikachu muttered slamming a paw on his face.

"Sorry," the living pokedex muttered. "Exeggutor, Kantish form, the Coconut Pokemon, a grass and psychic type. Each of its three heads has its own thoughts. When they want to go in different directions, Exeggutor becomes unable to move. Interesting. Unlike the Alolan Exeggutor, this Pokemon is a Grass and Psychic type."

"Let's start this off. Exeggutor use Psychic to create a whirlpool. Drag the bug into the center. Then use Egg Bomb," Mandi commanded.

"Exeggutor," the coconut tree muttered as its eyes glowed. Water started to swirl in a spiral pattern slowly pulling Araquanid in.

"Ride the waves. Lunge!" Ash commanded.

"Araqu!" It yelled gliding across the whirlpool in a blur as it glowed green. It lunged at Exeggutor slamming it across the field and into a wall where it slumped over swirly eyed.

"Exeggutor is unable to battle. Mandi choose your next Pokemon," the referee shouted.

"Golbat, come on out!" Mandi yelled, releasing a purple bat Pokemon.

"Let's see what we have here," Rotom Dex said, scanning the Pokemon. "Golbat, the evolved form of Zubat, a poison and flying type. They can suck down over 10 ounces of blood in one go. They have been known to drink so much blood that they can no longer fly. Scary."

"Use Razor Wind," Mandi shouted.

"Golbat!" The bat screeched as it built up wind around itself. It flapped its wings sending several blades of wind towards the water spider.

"Dodge then retaliate with bubblebeam," Ash said. Araquanid skated around the blades of wind before letting loose a stream of bubbles at the flying bat striking it and causing it to fall towards the ground.

"Golbat! Double Team," Mandi commanded. Suddenly dozens of Golbats appeared around the field.

"Hit them all. Liquidation!" Ash said.

"Araquanid!" It shouted as 2 giant water blades formed around its front legs. It dashed forward cutting through each of the Golbats before it struck true.

"Golbat, no!" Mandi shouted as the bat was launched into the water.

"Finish it with Ice Beam!" Ash said.

"Ara!" It said firing a blue beam at Golbat freezing it.

"Golbat is unable to battle! Mandi send out your last Pokemon." The referee announced.

"I didn't think that I would have to bring out my strongest Pokemon for a little kid. Whatever. Kingdra, come out!" Mandi said. A giant seahorse materialized in the battlefield staring defiantly at Araquanid.

"Kingdra!" It shouted.

"This is a new one," Rotom Dex commented, scanning the Pokemon. "Kingdra, the Dragon Pokemon, a water and dragon Pokemon. They normally rest on the bottom of the ocean floor, but in periods of high activity, even a simple yawn has enough power to create whirlpools."

"Let's go. Use Hydro Pump!" Mandi commanded.

Kingdra!" It said launching a massive blast of water from its mouth at Araquanid.

"Block it with your bubble!" Ash shouted. Araquanid maneuvered its head to meet the water. The bubble absorbed the water growing in size.

"What!" Mandi shouted. "How did that bug withstand my Kingdra's Hydro Pump?"

"Araquanid's bubble is special. It can absorb any water attacks that comes its way and increases any water attacks he uses," Ash said. "Now, Lunge!"

"Araquanid!" It shouted dashing towards Kingdra, a green glow forming around its legs.

"Dodge with Agility!" Mandi shouted. Kingdra glowed pink briefly before nimbly dodging Araquanid's strike. Araquanid repeatedly attacked Kingdra only for it to keep dodging the attacks.

"Hah, it doesn't matter how strong your Pokemon is. My Kingdra is too fast for you to hit," Mandi said. "Kingdra, multiple Dragon Pulses."

"King!" Kingdra sang forming and firing several balls of draconic energy.

"Deflect them with Liquidation!" Ash countered. Araquanid formed the water blades and expertly deflected or cut the attacks before they could do any damage to it.

"This could take a while if something doesn't change," Ash said. "I got it. Araquanid, I need a widespread web."

"Araquanid," it said before launching a wide net of webbing over Kingdra trapping it.

"Kingdra, no!" Mandi shouted.

"Let's not give it a chance to get out. Ice Beam!" Ash said. Araquanid shot a beam of ice at the trapped sea dragon freezing it entirely.

"Kingdra is unable to battle! Ash Ketchum is the winner!" The referee announced.

"Alright/Pika/Arachna!" Ash, Pikachu and Araquanid all yelled happily.

"And with an amazing display, Ash Ketchum sweeps Mandi's entire team with a single Pokemon." The announcer said.

"Alright, Ash won!" Lana, Lillie, Sophecles, Kiawe, and Mallow shouted in the stands.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Ash that match was incredible," Mallow said to the grinning trainer.

"Yeah, the way Araquanid just completely dominated the match was great. It looks like all that training paid off," Kiawe said high fiving Ash.

"I'm glad I was able to see it. Pokemon battles are different here in Kanto than in Alola," Lillie said.

"Yeah. They are much more fast paced than in Alola," Lana noted.

"That's just kind of how it is here," Ash said rubbing his hand against the back of his head. "In Kanto, most people try to just finish a fight with a lot of power."

"How come you didn't use your Z-move?" Sophecles asked.

"I didn't need it. It would have been overkill against him. Plus, I wanted a challenge," Ash said simply grinning.

"It's good to see you haven't changed," Kiawe said, putting Ash in a headlock.

"Stop that. I need that for tomorrow's match," Ash said to his grinning friend. "Sophocles, can you check to see who I'm facing?"

"Got it," Sophocles said, pulling out his computer. "It says here that you're facing… Professor Oak's grandson!"

"What?" Everyone shouted.

"I'm facing Gary," Ash said. "I guess we'll finally get to have our battle after all."

"You know him, Ash?" Kiawe asked.

"Yeah, we grew up together before I left for Alola. He used to pick on me quite a bit just because he was Professor Oak's grandson and when I moved, we weren't anywhere close to being on good terms. I wonder how much he has changed these past years."

"You mean to say that this is a fated battle between two rivals," Lana said her hand under her chin.

"I wouldn't even call it that. We have a few grudges, but I really haven't thought about Gary a lot through my journey," Ash said bluntly. "I guess we'll see how he is tomorrow."

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Welcome back everyone to the final round and final fight of the preliminary rounds. These trainers have fought through three matches just to get the chance to compete in the real tournament," the announcer spoke to the audience.

"On the left side, we have a trainer from the far-off region of Alola who has dominated all challenges with his pokemon. Give it up for Ash Ketchum of Melemele Island!" The announcer said as Ash and Pikachu entered the field waving to the cheering crowd.

"And on the right side, we have the grandson of the famous Professor Oak, Gary Oak," the announcer shouted, getting the crowd even more excited.

"Gary, Gary, he's our man. If he can't do it, no one can," a group of cheerleaders shouted as the brown-haired trainer walked into the field.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't Ashy boy. I'm surprised to see you even here. I thought you were going to quit after you left for that weak region," Gary sneered at his old rival.

"And you haven't changed a bit. Always looking down on others just because they aren't you," Ash said glaring at the boy with steel in his eyes.

"And it looks like the two of them have some history. I wonder how this battle will go down," the announcer contributed.

"What's up with Ash? Normally, he doesn't get this angry before a fight," Lillie asked hugging Snowy close to herself.

"He told me more about Gary last night," Mallow started getting everyone to look at her. "It was a lot worse than how Ash described it yesterday. Gary really had it out for Ash. He always made Ash feel like what he was doing was worthless and that he would never amount to anything. I guess now that he finally is facing his bully, all the emotions he had hidden are resurfacing."

"So, having to face Gary after all these years and seeing that he hasn't changed, it is causing Ash to lose it," Sophocles realized.

"No, it's causing Ash to become more focused," Lana corrected getting disbelieving work from her friends. "Before Ash left for Kanto, he realized he had a lot of mixed feelings about heading towards his original region, so he went to Kahuna Nanu for help with his emotions," Lana explained seriously, a dark look on her face. "I don't know exactly what happened on Ula'Ula Island, but when he came back, Ash was more confident about returning. Gary still thinks that Ash is the same kid that he knew, so he's underestimating him. Ash on the other hand is acting like he's about to fight a Kahuna."

"We're going to see Ash when he's at his strongest," Lillie noted pulling Snowy close to her chest.

"What do you think about all this Kiawe?" Mallow asked turning to the fire type trainer.

"Go Ash! Show that bully the strength of Alola!" Kiawe shouted with a fiery aura around him. His Marowak popped out of his Pokeball, a similar aura around him shouted in agreement.

"I forgot how worked up he can get," Mallow sweat-dropped.

"Be quiet, the battle is finally beginning. I want to watch Ash destroy him," Lana spoke a menacing aura surrounding her.

"This will be a 3 on 3 battle with substitutions, Mega Evolutions, and Z-moves are allowed. Trainers send out your Pokemon!" The referee ordered.

"Snorlax, I need your assistance," Ash said, releasing his giant Pokemon.

"Snorlax," it yawned.

"I know you want to sleep, but I need you right now. After this battle, I will feed you all the food you want," Ash said getting the Sleeping Pokemon to perk up.

"Arcanine, I choose you!" Gary said as a giant red dog appeared. Gary quickly scanned Ash's Snorlax before smirking confidently. "Hah, this will be easy."

"Let's see. Arcanine, the Legendary Pokemon, a Fire Type. Arcanine runs so smoothly, it appears to be flying and is known for its majestic cry," Rotom Dex recorded.

"Let the battle begin!"

"Arcanine, start things off with Take Down. Aim for the head," Gary said. Arcanine took off towards Snorlax.

"Meet it with Giga Impact then follow through with Heavy Slam!" Ash commanded.

With speed belying his size, Snorlax charged forwards a cone of energy surrounding him. He met Arcanine's charge head on, and with a small grunt of effort, swatted the dog off of him. Snorlax jumped high into the air and began his descent towards the downed Arcanine, a slight silver sheen on his belly.

"Arcanine, dodge it," Gary cried out. Arcanine jumped out of the way but was launched backwards by the shockwave of Snorlax's belly flop.

"Can you keep going?" Gary asked, getting a nod from the panting Legendary Pokemon. "Alright, while it's still on its stomach, use Fire Blast!"

"Arcanine!" It shouted launching a five-pronged fire blast towards the immoble Pokemon.

"Snorlax, block it with your belly," Ash said confidently. Snorlax rolled up onto its feet and met the flames with its large belly causing a small burn, but not much else.

"How?" Gary asked seeing the minimal damage his Pokemon caused.

"Snorlax's ability is Thick Fat, so all damage caused by Fire and Ice type attacks are reduced," Ash explained grinning, but it faltered when Snorlax was suddenly surrounded by a brief flame. "Unfortunately, it doesn't prevent burns from happening."

"Hah, now that it's burned, it doesn't matter if I can't really damage it with any fire moves. I just have to wait until it succumbs to burn," Gary commented smugly.

"Well then, we just have to finish this now. High Horsepower!" Ash said, causing a gleam to appear in Snorlax's eye.

"Snor," it mumbled, glowing brown. It stomped on the ground causing a shockwave that knocked Arcanine over. It started plowing towards Arcanine continuing to create shockwaves preventing Arcanine from getting up.

"Arcanine, you've got to get out of the way," Gary shouted. Arcanine tried, but it was too late. Snorlax hit it with a full powered tackle and then punched it with a glowing paw creating a dust cloud.

"Arcanine! NO!" Gary shouted. When the dust cleared, Arcanine was lying on its side with swirly eyes.

"Alright, Snorlax. You got him," Ash shouted, jumping up and down.

"Snorlax!" Snorlax roared before another wave of flames appeared around it causing it to fall to one knee.

"Snorlax, can you keep going?" Ash asked.

"Snore," it nodded standing back up.

"Alright," Ash said.

"Arcanine is unable to battle. Trainer, send out your next Pokemon," the referee said as Gary returned his pokemon.

"Looks like Ashy boy is stronger than I thought," Gary mumbled to himself. "It doesn't matter, he won't stand a chance with my next Pokemon. Go Nidoqueen!"

In a burst of light, a large, blue, reptilian Pokemon appeared on the field. "Nidoqueen," she cried out.

"Scanning now. Nidoqueen, the Drill Pokemon, a poison and ground type. Nidoqueen's body is encased in extremely hard scales. It is adept at sending foes flying with harsh tackles. This Pokémon is at its strongest when it is defending its young," Rotom said.

"This will be tough with Snorlax injured," Ash mumbled. "I got it. Snorlax, Rest."

"Snorlax," Snorlax yawned before laying on its back. A snot bubble appearing over its head.

"You've got to be kidding me," Gary mumbled. "Ref, there's got to be a rule against this."

"Sorry kid," the referee said. "It would be one thing if his Pokemon was refusing to fight, but in this case, he is just using a move."

"This isn't even going to be fun," Gary complained. "Nidoqueen, Hyper Beam!"

"Nidoqueen!" She cried firing an orange beam at the slumbering Pokemon. Surprisingly, Snorlax rolled out of the way of the attack when it was a few feet away.

"What!" Gary shouted.

"And amazingly, Snorlax manages to dodge the attack while he's asleep," the announcer exclaimed.

"How can he do that?" Gary asked.

"In Alola, there is a Pokemon called Komala who spends its entire life asleep and can even battle when its asleep. My Snorlax spent a lot of time training with one and picked up a few tricks. Including how to respond to attacks in its sleep," Ash explained. "Now wake up and use Fire Blast."

"Don't give it the chance, Nidoqueen use Mega Punch!" Gary commanded.

Snorlax groggily rolled to its feet before inhaling, while Nidoqueen rushed forward and punched its stomach knocking the air out of the giant Pokémon's lungs causing it to cough out smoke.

"Don't let up, Double Kick and Mega Punches continuously!"

"Nido!" She shouted, delivering a barrage of punches and kicks to the recovering Pokemon.

"Snorlax, block its kick and use Ice Punch!" Ash commanded.

"Snorlax!" It yelled waiting for an opening before grabbing the attacking Pokémon's leg with its left arm before delivering an icy punch to her face causing her face to be partially frozen.

"Now throw her in the air and use Heavy Slam!" Ash commanded.

"Snorlax!" Snorlax followed the order and quickly tossed the Drill Pokemon into the air before leaping even higher. "Laaxxx!" It shouted beginning its descent with a silver aura around it as it approached the falling opponent.

"Nidoqueen Hyper Beam!" Gary exclaimed.

Nidoqueen managed to form and use the attack just before Snorlax slammed into her creating a giant explosion. When it cleared, both Pokemon were on their backs with swirls in their eyes.

"Both Pokemon are unable to battle. Trainers, send out your final Pokemon!" The referee proclaimed.

"Snorlax return!" Ash said. "You did great. Mama Burnet and Munchlax would be so proud of you."

"Return Nidoqueen!" Gary sneered. "You did your best. Well, you certainly are stronger than I gave you credit, but now you have to face my strongest Pokemon. Blastoise, I choose you!"

"Blastoise!" It calmly said as it materialized onto the field.

"Blastoise, the Shellfish Pokémon, a water type. Blastoise's heavy body weight can make opponents unable to battle. It retreats into its shell when necessary." Rotom Dex proclaimed.

"Lycanroc, I need your assistance!" Ash said, releasing his green-eyed wolf.

"Lycan!" Lycanroc shouted, shaking its fur.

"What Pokemon is that?" Gary asked, pulling out his Pokedex only to be frustrated when nothing came up. "Come on, I know Gramps updated my Pokedex to include foreign Pokemon, so how come mine says there's no data."

"That's because my Lycanroc is a one of a kind Dusk form Lycanroc," Ash said. "I don't even know why you're trying. So far, this battle has been nothing but a disappointment," Ash complained.

"A disappointment! I'll show how much of a disappointment you are when I beat your remaining Pokemon. Blastoise Hydro Pump!" Gary sneered. Blastoise lowered his body to fire streams of high-pressured water at the wolf.

Ash merely nodded at Lycanroc who easily dodged the attack.

"Stone edge," Ash commanded.

"Lycanroc," it said, slamming its front feet into the ground. Pillars of stone formed on the ground underneath Blastoise lifting him into the air.

"Now, use Accelerock," Ash said.

"Ly," it growled, glowing white before dashing at the airborne turtle.

"Blastoise use Rapid Spin to block it," Gary commanded. Blastoise tucked its limbs and head in and started to spin in place. It met Lycanroc's charge head on, causing them both to fall to the ground. Blastoise landed with a heavy thud but was hardly damaged while Lycanroc gracefully landed.

"This is your strongest. So far you haven't laid a single hit on Lycanroc," Ash drawled causing Gary to growl.

"Blastoise, Skull Bash!" Gary said. Blastoise started running towards Lycanroc.

"You know what to do," Ash confidently said.

"Lycanroc!" Lycanroc exclaimed, eyes turning red, tanking the charging Blastoise before the stone on its head glowed. "Ly...can...roc!" It grunted headbutting Blastoise and sending it onto its back panting.

"Blastoise no!" Gary shouted. "Try to get up! There is no way that we're losing to Ashy boy!"

"You want to know why this battle is disappointing?" Ash asked, getting a confused look from Gary. "You lack any real passion for training. Fighting you, there is no thrill, no joy, and no excitement that I get fighting any of the other competitors. So you know what I think?" Ash asked.

"I think that it's time to finish this farce. Stone Edge," Ash said. Lycanroc once more slammed its front paws on the ground causing glowing pillars of rock to form underneath Blastoise sending it high into the air.

"This is the end for you," Ash said crossing his arms, the crystal on his Z-ring glowing darkly. "Now allow yourself to be enveloped in the darkness." Ash said doing some motions as a dark aura formed around him before finishing in a menacing pose.

"Aroo!" Lycanroc howled as the aura transferred over to his eyes glowing red.

"Use Black Hole Eclipse!" Ash commanded turning his back towards Gary. Lycanroc formed a purple, red and black sphere above his head before throwing it behind the airborne starter. It exploded into a miniature black hole which sucked Blastoise in. As Blastoise was beaten inside the black hole, it rapidly shrunk before exploding sending Blastoise to the ground with swirls in his eyes.

"Blastoise, no!" Gary screamed seeing his fallen starter.

"Blastoise is unable to battle. The win goes to Ash Ketchum of Pallet Town!" The referee shouted.

"What a drag," Ash said walking towards the exit, Lycanroc following behind. As he walked past the exit, he pulled out his Darkinium Z. "I hope Nanu was watching."

"Lycan," Lycanroc growled.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu squealed.

"You're right, guys. I'm sure that he's proud of us," Ash said, walking towards his friends.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Ash, that Z-move was so cool," Lana said with stars in her eyes as she hugged her boyfriend.

"Thanks Lana," Ash said bashfully.

"It was a great match," Kiawe started. "But I must ask, why did you act like that? Even with some of our crazier battles, you normally fight with a lot of passion."

"It's because I couldn't," Ash stated. "I was looking forward to my eventual battle with Gary so much. But after everything that we've been through and seeing how Gary acted, I realized how pointless it was. I've changed while in Alola, while Gary has stagnated here, and I just got frustrated. But I wanted to express my feelings towards Gary, so I took a page out of Nanu's book. I acted disinterested in the fight and riled him up. I hoped I could get through to him, but only time will tell," Ash explained.

"So, you were trying to help him?" Mallow asked.

"Seems like a weird way to do that," Sophocles noted.

"Well, it worked for me when I had my grand trial with Nanu. I hoped a similar situation would get through to Gary," Ash said nonchalantly.

"That is so cool," Lana said.

"Will all remaining competitors head to the main stadium," the voice of the announcer filled their ears. "We have a special announcement for the next stage of the tournament."

"I wonder what that was all about?" Lillie asked.

"We won't know until we find out?" Ash said running towards the stadium with his Pokemon following him. "Last one there is a rotten Exeggcute!"

"Wait for us!" Lana shouted rushing after.

"Running! Why'd it have to be running?" Sophocles muttered jogging after his friends.

"Togedemaru!" She shouted excitedly, jumping around before zooming after them.

"Togedemaru, wait for me!"

Xxx Island Champion's Return

Ash entered the filled stadium as his friends went to find some seats to find a large wrestling ring in the center with a few trainers observing it. Ash observed the trainers quietly, but only a trainer in a cloak stood out to him.

"No way," Ash breathed out. "It's a battle royal stadium!" He cheered, getting a few looks from the other trainers. Before he or anyone else could make any more comments, a small platform rose from the center of the stage with three figures on it. One of them was an old man with a beard. Standing next to him was a shirtless wrestler wearing a colorful mask. Behind the masked man was a red and black bipedal tiger Pokemon.

"It's the Masked Royal and Incineroar!" Ash and his friends shouted seeing the man. As Ash said that one of his Pokeballs popped open revealing another Incineroar who glared at the Masked Royal's Pokemon. "Are you excited to see your rival?"

"Incineroar!" It roared getting a knowing smirk from the Masked Royal and his Pokemon.

"Hello everyone. I would like to thank all the trainers who have provided us with the many fine battles this year," the old man said. "I am Mr. Goodshow, the president of the League Competition Committee."

"I'm sure you all are wondering why there is a fighting ring this year. To celebrate the establishment of a Pokemon League and Champion, we decided that this year, and potentially each year after, we will be having a Battle Royal to determine our semi-finalists," Goodshow said, stepping aside. "I'll just leave it to our guests to explain what a Battle Royal is."

"Hello, everyone!" The Masked Royal shouted striking a pose with Incineroar. "I'm the Masked Royal, and this is my partner, The Strongest Flame in Alola, Incineroar. I'm here to teach you about an Alolan tradition that has been happening for centuries… the Battle Royal! Now what's the Battle Royal, I can hear you say?" He shouted leaning into the crowd getting a few cheers from the crowd.

"The Battle Royal is a special form of battle where four Pokemon fight at the same time! Normally, what would happen is that each trainer would have 3 Pokemon and when one trainer has all their Pokemon knocked, the battle ends when points would be determined by how many Pokemon were knocked and how many Pokemon each trainer has remaining," Masked Royal explained.

"But this is a Tournament, so we're changing the rules a bit! Since this is an unfamiliar format for most trainers here, each trainer will have 2 Pokemon on their team, and instead of the match ending when a trainer loses all their Pokemon, it will be the last trainer standing. So trainers choose your Pokemon carefully because you can't keep them in your Pokeballs. Pokemon must stand beside you, so any substitutions can only be done by using a tag out." He explained excitedly getting larger cheers from the stadium.

"This will be great," Ash said. "I've been waiting for another chance for a Battle Royal!" Ash cheered along with his Pokemon getting a few looks from the other trainers.

"Now, if you'll turn your attention to the screen, you'll see who you'll be facing," Royal shouted pointing at the screen. Ash looked at the screen and found he was in the third match against Ritchie, Pete Pebbleman, and Jeanette Fisher. "I wonder who I should use?"

"Incin," Incineroar growled lightly shoving Ash.

"I figured you wanted to fight, but who else should I use?" Ash wondered.

"Pika," Pikachu said, making a face.

"You think we should use him?" Ash asked, getting a nod from his starter. "Alright. I hope he's ready for a fight."

"Before anyone leaves, there is one more thing for you trainers," the Masked Royal said, stopping any retreating trainers. A small platform rose from the stadium, revealing a bunch of costumes. "Just because this is a tournament, does not mean you can't have fun. If you feel the need, we've brought a bunch of costumes for you to use in tomorrow's match. So trainers, you have 2 days to prepare, so choose wisely, but don't forget to… Enjoy!" The Masked Royal shouted striking a pose with Incineroar.

"Enjoy!" Ash, his Pokemon, friends, and several members in the audience copied.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Ash, over here," a woman with a Munchlax shouted as Ash exited the Arena. Standing around her were all his friends. "Alola."

"Alola, Mama Burnet. It's so good to see you!" Ash shouted, running and hugging her.

"I'm so glad to see you too," she said, returning the hug before holding him at arm's length, a mischievous look on her face. "Have you been changing your underwear everyday?"

"MAMA BURNET!" Ash shouted prompting a laugh from his friends.

"I'm sorry, Ash, but Delia asked me to say that," she explained, giggling.

"Sometimes, I fear how much you and Mom get along," Ash mumbled. "Hey, where's Papa Kukui?"

"Kukui really has some explaining to do," She grumbled. "I know that he was planning a surprise, but he didn't tell me he was coming as the Mask Royal!" She screamed with hearts in her eyes. Before she could continue to gush, a man wearing an unbuttoned lab coat rushed towards the group.

"Sorry for taking so long. I was stuck talking to Mr. Goodshow," he panted, hands on his knees.

"Seriously, this always happens when something important happens. I'm beginning to think that you are hiding something besides your involvement in the tournament," Burnet accused him, causing the man to freeze up.

"Mama Burnet, aren't you being a little hard on him?" Ash asked.

"No, she's right," Kukui said, reaching inside his coat. "I've been working to get her something special," he said presenting her with a t-shirt.

"No way! Is that a signed Masked Royal t-shirt?" She squealed, grabbing the shirt and hugging it to her chest. "I've never seen this design."

"Wait, what! Let me see it!" Kiawe asked, trying to get a look at the t-shirt only to be met with a possessive glare at him. "Never mind, I believe you."

"I'm so jealous," Sophocles said.

"How did you get it?" Mallow asked Kukui.

"How can I get one?" Lana asked with fire in her eyes.

"Well, as the Masked Royal, I was able to commission a special t-shirt," Kukui bragged.

"Oh Kukui, this is the best gift ever," Professor Burnet squealed, grabbing onto him and giving him a kiss. "I'm going to go try this on." With that said, she rushed off, leaving a dazed Kukui.

"You doing okay, Papa Kukui?" Ash asked the dazed man.

"I'm alright. I just wasn't expecting such a reaction from her," the man said breathlessly before shaking his head. "Ash, give us some Foresight into the Pokemon you're going to use?"

"Well, it won't be a surprise that I'm going to use Incineroar," Ash said gesturing to his smirking Pokemon. "But I'm going to leave my second one as a surprise."

"Come on, Ash! We all want to know!" Mallow screamed at him.

"Nope. I will tell you this. He loves to fight but he likes to stick to the shadows," Ash said, getting a look of realization from Lana.

"You mean you're going to use…" Lana started before being shushed by Ash.

"It's a secret, Lana," Ash said, getting a blank look from his girlfriend.

"What do you plan on doing now?" Kiawe asked.

"Now, I'm going to steal Lana and Lillie. I saw a few stores on the way here, and I believe I owe the two of them a few treats," Ash said grabbing the two of their hands.

"Really?!" Lana and Lillie asked with stars in their eyes.

"Hold on, I thought that you hated shopping," Kukui noted. "You normally tried to Teleport out of the job whenever Burnet and I had to get anything besides food."

"I want to spend some time with my beautiful girlfriends. I haven't had a real chance to take Lana anywhere while traveling, and I haven't seen Lillie in months. I may not truly like it, but I can deal with it," Ash said. The two girls smiled before kissing his cheeks.

"Let's go," Lana and Lillie said, dragging the smiling boy away from the group.

"I'll see you guys tonight," Ash said as he was dragged away, Pikachu barely hanging on.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"We're back," Lillie and Lana shouted, entering the cabin that Ash rented. They had a few bags on their arms. "Alola!"

"Alola!" Kukui, Burnet, and everyone asked.

"We were beginning to worry about you. It's almost 7," Kiawe said.

"Sorry, but we got a little sidetracked with everything in the shopping district," Lillie said.

"There was so much to look at. I could have stayed there for hours," Lana said.

"Food is almost ready!" Mallow's voice said from the kitchen. "Tell Ash to get his butt in here because I need some help bringing this out!"

"Speaking of Ash, where is he?" Kukui asked.

"He spotted something along the way back. He said it shouldn't take long," Lillie said looking at the door.

"He seemed pretty excited with whatever he saw. Though he wouldn't say what," Lana noted.

"I guess we'll just have to wait for him," Sophocles noted before he held his stomach. "I hope he gets here soon, because I'm hungry."

"I'll go help Mallow," Professor Burnet said heading into the kitchen.

"What did you get?" Kiawe asked.

"Well we bought a few sets of clothes. I certainly need a few if I'm going to be traveling with Ash," Lillie said, pulling out several sets of traveling clothes.

"I found a few tools that will help me train with Water Pokemon. I also found a couple of lures," Lana said.

"Food's ready!" Mallow said, bringing out a large pot. Burnet followed behind them holding a basket of bread. An Oranguru followed behind, shaking a large bottle. They all placed it on the large table.

"Wow, I didn't know you caught Oranguru," Lana said as she grabbed a bowl of stew from Mallow.

"It's not the same Oranguru as you think. He just showed up at the cafe one day and just started to follow me. He quite enjoys working in the kitchen," Mallow said serving the group.

"Oranguru," it said, offering a drink to Lana. She took it and had a small sip.

"This is delicious!" Lana said, gulping it down.

"Yeah, Oranguru loves to make drinks. He's been a big help in the restaurant," Mallow said happily.

"Guru," it said, smiling happily.

The group of friends and family happily ate the meal as they waited for their friend to come back.

"I'm back. Sorry for taking so long," Ash shouted.

"Pika!" Pikachu squeaked as he bounded into the cabin.

"We're in the dining room! Hurry or Sophocles will have eaten everything!" Mallow shouted.

"Great," Ash said, rushing into the room. "Sorry, I'm so late. It took longer than I expected, and I had to let everyone else out to eat outside."

"It's alright," Kukui said.

"What did you get that you had to ditch Lana and Lillie?" Sophocles asked between slurps of his stew. He stopped when he felt a glare from the two girls.

"Ash did not ditch us!" They both shouted.

"Ahem, I was busy getting them both a gift," Ash said, bringing out two boxes and handing them to Lana and Lillie. "While Lana and I were traveling, I came across a few unique items. There was a store that does custom jobs, so I put in an order."

"Ash, it's beautiful!" Lillie said, holding out a snowflake necklace. Lana opened her box and found a water droplet necklace. The two girls quickly put them on and started to examine them.

"That's not all. If you open them, there's a surprise inside," Ash said prompting them both to open the necklaces.

"Where did you find Keystones?" Lillie shouted, getting surprised looks from Kukui and Burnet.

"Principal Oak sent us towards one of his friends, a scientist named Bill. When we visited, the Kalos Region professor was visiting Bill to explain some of the mechanics of Mega Evolution along with giving out a couple of Keystones and Mega Stones he found for study. When he saw my Garchomp and Charmander and Lana's Squirtle, he decided to give a few of them to us, especially after I told him about Lillie's Altaria," Ash explained, taking out a few accessories. "These are the holsters for the Mega Stones for Blastoise and Altaria," he said handing a small head brace to Lana and a necklace to Lana.

"I can't wait to use this," Lana said happily.

"Hey, did you find any other Mega Stones?" Sophocles asked.

"Sorta, I just the ones that Professor Sycamore gave us, but Charizard apparently has two different Mega forms." Ash explained pulling out a set of bracers. "If we find another keystone, then Kiawe can Mega Evolve his Charizard."

"Alright! I promise to keep an eye out for my own Keystone. I can only imagine how powerful an Inferno Overdrive from Charizard would be," Kiawe said imagining it. "It would burn brighter than the fires of Wela Volcano!" He shouted a burning aura around him.

"Alright, I think its time for us to settle down. The Moonlight is starting to appear," Kukui said, bringing the mood down.

"But I just got back, and I haven't eaten yet," Ash complained.

"I don't mean to go to bed. I mean we need to relax a bit. Besides, you need to Stockpile your energy for your match," Kukui reassured Ash.

"I set aside some food for you in the kitchen," Mallow said as she started to clean up the table.

"Thanks, Mallow," Ash said heading in.

"So now that Ash is distracted, who is Ash going to use for the tournament?" Mallow asked.

"He's going to use Mew," Lana said.

"WHAT! MEW!?" Everyone shouted.

"Just kidding," Lana said, sticking her tongue out, getting everyone to face fault.

"How many times are you going to do that?" Kiawe asked.

"How many times are you going to fall for that?" Lana asked.

"Touche," Kiawe said.

"Seriously though, which Pokemon is my brother going to use?" Mallow asked. Lana motioned for her to come closer which everyone sans Lillie did.

"Secret," Lana whispered, getting them to face fault again.

"You'd think they would learn by now," Lillie giggled.

"If you guys are trying to get either Lana or Lillie to tell you, it's not going to work," Ash said as he walked in with a bowl of soup. Pikachu was on his shoulder happily drinking a bottle of ketchup.

"We're just curious, Ash. Cut us some slack," Sophocles whined.

"Nope, you're just going to have to wait," Ash said.

"This is going to be a long two days," Mallow said.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Welcome folks, to the third match of the Battle Royal Round of the Indigo league! We have had two exciting matches before with the cloaked Z dominating his battle with the cool-headed Assunta following afterwards. Let's see how these four trainers do!" The announcer shouted to the cheering crowd.

"In the red corner, we have a young trainer from Frodomar City, the Rumbling Ritchie!" As the announcer said this, Ritchie walked onto the stage dressed in a yellow and black costume that made him look similar to a Pikachu in a wrestling costume. A Charmeleon and Pikachu were following him.

"In the blue corner, we have a strong young man who fought his battles valiantly with both power and defense. Give it up for Pewter City's warrior, Pete Pebbleman!" A young man wearing a green and black t-shirt and basic pants walked out. A Cloyster and Arcanine were bounding after him.

"I did not agree to that name," he mumbled to himself.

"In the green corner, we have the elegant and composed young lady from Crimson City! Let's give it up for Jeanette Fisher!" A girl dressing in an elegant kimono walked towards her corner. A Bellsprout and Beedrill followed the girl silently as they approached their corner.

"Finally, he has been dominating his previous matches with a balance of strategy and power and an experienced Battle Royal Trainer. From Melemele Island, here's Ash Royal!" Unlike the other trainers, Ash ran out onto the stage before jumping onto the post on his corner of the ring and began to wave at the crowd showing a set of wristbands. He wore a black wrestling pants with white boots that went up to his knees and met with a set of white knee guards. He was shirtless showing his developing upper body. To finish the set, he wore a colorful mask. Running behind him was Incineroar who jumped behind his trainer.

"Enjoy!/Incineroar!" Ash and Incineroar shouted striking a pose.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu shouted in Burnet's stands copying the pose.

"Enjoy!" Lana and Lillie said doing the same.

"Woah, Ash looks just like the Masked Royal!" Burnet noted.

"When did Ash get muscles? He was a beanpole when he left for Kanto," Mallow asked.

"Ash has been working out while traveling. Some mornings, I find him wrestling with Incineroar. I don't know why, but I'm certainly not complaining," Lana said blushing slightly.

"He certainly is something," Lillie said absent-mindedly before rapidly shaking her head.

"That would be my doing. I gave Ash some exercises to do while training his Pokemon. It did wonders pushing them when I trained mine. I can only imagine what it did for his training," Kukui noted.

"What's this, Ash only has one Pokemon with him!" The announcer noted.

"But what is Ash thinking? He only has Incineroar out," Kiawe wondered.

"Part of the Battle Royal is showmanship. I expect that Ash is going to be putting on a show. Plus, he did mention that his other Pokemon likes to stay in the shadows. Maybe its hidden," Kukui said.

"But this match determines who will be going to the semi-finals. Shouldn't Ash be more focused on the battle ahead than entertaining the crowd?" Sophocles said.

"Normally, that would be the case, but Ash is likely the only person who has experience with the Battle Royal style of fighting. He would find it disrespectful to not give it his all," Burnet said.

"I guess, but who is his other Pokemon?" Sophocles mumbled.

"Who cares. Go Ash Royal!" Lana and Lillie shouted.

"Marowak!" Kiawe's Marowak cheered with them.

"Marowak, when did you get out?" Kiawe asked.

"Let the third Battle Royal Match begin! Trainers send out your first Pokemon!" The referee shouted.

"Sparky, I choose you!" Ritchie shouted. His Pikachu jumped onto the stage, cheeks sparking.

"Go Cloyster!" Pete said. Cloyster needed to be helped onto the stage by Pete, but it stood ready.

"Beedrill, it's your turn!" Jeanette commanded.

"Marshadow, out of the shadows," Ash whispered softly. Ash's shadow which stretched over the stage suddenly started to grow as a small black figure rose from it.

"What's this, an unknown Pokemon suddenly appeared," the announcer shouted.

"Rotom Dex, what Pokemon is that?" Kiawe asked.

"Marshadow, the Gloom Dweller Pokemon, a ghost and fighting type. It sinks into the shadows of people and Pokémon, where it can understand their feelings and copy their capabilities," Rotom Dex stated.

"When did Ash catch a Marshadow?" Burnet asked thoughtfully.

"He caught it shortly after we arrived in Kanto. Apparently, Marshadow had been watching for a while before he decided to challenge Ash for the right to catch him. Why is it so surprising?" Lana said.

"Marshadow is a Pokemon that has only been recently recorded, but there have been various manuscripts that the Aether Foundation has found confirming its existence. There is not much known about it, but the fact that Ash has caught one is a huge boon to many researchers," Burnet explained.

"I wonder how strong it is," Kiawe thought aloud.

"We're about to find out," Kukui said.

"This is a four-way Battle Royal with two Pokemon per trainer. Substitutions are allowed at any time. Z-moves and Mega Evolution is allowed. Let the battle begin!" The referee shouted. The four trainers looked at each other sizing each other up.

"Beedrill, attack Marshadow with Poison Jab!" Jeanette shouted. Beedrill flew towards Marshadow with purple stingers.

"Cloyster, use Ice Beam on Marshadow!" Pete commanded. A blue beam was shot towards the stationary Pokemon.

"Sparky use Thunderbolt on Marshadow!" Ritchie said. After a quick charge up, Sparky fired a bolt of lightning at it.

"Shadow Sneak," Ash said. Marshadow sank into the ground avoiding the charging Beedrill. It unfortunately flew into the path of the Ice Beam and Thunderbolt causing it to cry out in pain.

"Beedrill, no!" Jeanette shouted.

"You have to be careful in a Battle Royal. You never know when another attack will come from your opponent," Ash admonished. "Now Marshadow, Cloyster is wide open. Spectral Thief."

"Cloyster, block it with Withdraw," Pete shouted frantically. Cloyster closed its shell as Marshadow rose from its shadow. Marshadow sent a wave of shadows that forced Cloyster's shell open before punching it in the face sending it towards the edge of the ring.

"What!" Pete yelled.

"Close Combat!" Ash commanded. Marshadow began to land several punches and kicks to the unguarded Cloyster knocking it out.

"Sparky, Thunderbolt on Beedrill!" Ritchie shouted. Sparky launched his attack at the recovering Beedrill taking it down as well.

"Beedrill and Cloyster are unable to battle! Jeanette and Pete, send out your last Pokemon," the referee shouted as the trainers recalled their Pokemon.

"Alright, Ash!" Lillie shouted.

"You better keep it up!" Lana shouted at the boy.

"Pika/Marowak!" The two Pokemon shouted.

"They are really into this," Kiawe noted. Mallow and Sophocles could only nod.

"Arcanine, blast them away!" Pete shouted.

"Bellsprout, I'm counting on you," Jeanette said to her Pokemon. The two Pokemon jumped onto the ring and stared at their competition.

"Arcanine, use Fire Blast on Marshadow!" Pete said. The dog launched a five pronged blast of fire at Marshadow.

"Bellsprout, use Slam on Sparky!" Jeanette commanded. At extreme speeds, the Bellsprout launched itself at the surprised Pikachu.

"Sparky match that attack with Quick Attack!" Ritchie commanded. Sparky managed to recover and tried to tackle the approaching plant, but when Sparky made contact with it, the body just moved with it, absorbing the blow. Bellsprout then began to slam its limbs onto Sparky.

"Marshadow, Shadow Sneak and then Shadow Punch," Ash said. Once more, Marshadow sank into the ground dodging the fire before appearing in front of Arcanine. A spectral fist formed around its hand that struck the canine's face, sending it flying into the still both Pikachu and Bellsprout, sending them into a pile of limbs. "Now tag out!" Marshadow glided back towards Ash's corner before slapping its hand with Incineroar's. Incineroar jumped onto the ring before smirking at all three of the battered Pokemon.

"Incineroar, Darkest Lariat!" Ash said striking a pose. Incineroar lit his palms on fire before spinning rapidly towards the trio of dazed Pokemon.

"Get out of there!" Their trainers shouted desperately. The Pokemon tried to untangle themselves, but they were too slow. Incineroar slammed into each Pokemon sending them towards their trainer's individual corner. Arcanine, Sparky and Bellsprout were knocked out.

"In one strike, Ash Royal's Incineroar knocks out two Pokemon. Eliminating both Pete and Jeanette and leaving Ritchie with only one Pokemon! Now it is just between Ash Royal and the Rumbling Ritchie," The announcer said as both defeated trainers sank to their knees in disbelief as they returned their Pokemon, though Jeanette just picked up her Bellsprout, before leaving the stadium.

"You did great, buddy," Ritchie said, returning his Pikachu. "Looks like it is up to you, Zippo!" Charmeleon jumped onto the stage with fire in his eyes.

"Charmeleon!" It shouted as it glared at Incineroar.

"Heh, it looks like we have a challenger. Let's give him a fight," Ash said.

"Incin," Incineroar said, making a come-on motion.

"Zippo, use Flamethrower!" Ritchie said. The Chameleon took a deep breath before launching a stream of flames at Incineroar.

"It's no use!" Ash said.

"Incineroar," he smirked as he launched a Fire Blast, cancelling the Flamethrower.

"Try a Fire Fang!" Ritchie said. Charmeleon coated its mouth in flames before charging at the smirking cat.

"Catch it," Ash said. Incineroar grabbed the lizard's head stopping it dead in its tracks. "Now, Alolan Whip!" Incineroar threw Zippo at the ring ropes. It bounced off them but before it could hit the ground, Incineroar intercepted it with a brutal lariat sending it towards the floor.

"Zippo!" Ritchie called out towards his weakened Pokemon. Zippo got up before growling angrily at the cat. "Zippo's really mad," he said surprised.

"Hehe, looks like your Chameleon can tell that we're still holding back. Let's give it what it wants. Bulk Up!" Ash shouted. Incineroar's upper body briefly became inflamed as its muscles expanded.

"This brings back memories," Kiawe said.

"Yeah, it's like back when Incineroar was just a Litten. He was really riled up when he fought the Masked Royal," Mallow said.

"Ash worked so hard with Litten to get it to learn Flame Charge just so he could fight the Masked Royal's Incineroar again," Lana said.

"And then Litten evolved," Lillie said.

"So that's what Ash is trying to do," Kukui said.

"What do you mean, Professor?" Mallow asked.

"Ash is trying to push his opponents to Bulk Up. He wants a fight that will really get his blood pumping," Kukui explained.

"Charmeleon!" Zippo suddenly shouted, its tail flame increasing in size.

"That's Blaze. Zippo, let's turn this around. Use Flamethrower!" Ritchie shouted. Zippo released a much larger stream of fire from its mouth.

"Plow through with Darkest Lariat!" Ash said. Incineroar started spinning as it approached the flames. When it reached them, the flames spun around Incineroar increasing its attack.

"Zippo, get out of there, but stay close!" Ritchie said. Zippo stopped its attack and jumped out of the way of Incineroar. "Now Slash!" Zippo charged back at the wrestler with its claws glowing white before sending a slash at him.

"Looks like this one has some spunk. Match it with Throat Chop," Ash said. Incineroar sent out a knife hand. The two attacks met in a brief struggle before Incineroar overpowered Zippo and struck it in the throat sending it towards Ritchie on its back.

"Zippo, you gotta get up! I know he's strong, but I know that you can beat him" Ritchie said. Zippo got up growling before he started to glow and change.

"Now we're talking," Ash said grinning as the change finished.

"Charizard!" Zippo shouted as it extended its new wings.

"Alright Zippo, you evolved!" Ritchie shouted, scanning his Pokemon. "And it looks like you learned some new moves! Use Air Slash!" Zippo flapped his wings sending several blades of wind at the Heel Pokemon.

"Darkest Lariat!" Ash said. Incineroar met the blades with another spinning attack creating a smokescreen. "Now Revenge!" From the smoke, Incineroar struck the surprised Pokemon with a powerful punch to the gut.

"While he's still close, use Seismic Toss!" Ritchie said. Zippo quickly grabbed the Heel in a sleeper hold before flying high into the air and throwing Incineroar into the ground face first.

"Incineroar!" Ash shouted as his Pokemon got up giving him a thumbs up despite the bruises forming on his body. "Ritchie, this has been the most fun match I've had yet in this tournament." Ash said getting his opponent to look at him surprised. "But I think it's time to finish this," Ash said, pulling down his left wristband revealing his Z-ring with a red crystal in it before extending and crossing his arms, causing the crystal to glow.

"Zippo, don't let them use it. Use Flamethrower!" Ritchie said. Zippo flew low releasing a stream of fire at Incineroar.

"Now Incineroar, we will incinerate the ring with the flames of victory!" Ash said crouching down before up with both hands finishing above his head in a claw. A red aura surrounded Ash before it was transferred over to Incineroar. "Now use Max Malicious Moonsault!"

"Incineroar!" Incineroar roared charging through the Flamethrower before grabbing Zippo and throwing it towards the ring ropes. Zippo bounced off it back towards Incineroar who uppercutted the Charizard. Incineroar's legs lit on fire before it jumped and kicked Zippo higher into the air before giving it another uppercut. His legs released more flames sending him even higher than Zippo before he rocketed towards Charizard's exposed back headbutting him towards the center of the ring. When they met the floor, a small nova of fire covered the two Pokemon.

"Zippo!" Ritchie shouted covering his eyes. When the nova cleared, Incineroar was standing triumphant over a defeated Charizard.

"Zippo is unable to battle! Ash Royal wins the Battle Royal!" The referee shouted.

"There we have it, folks. Ash Ketchum moves on to the semi-final rounds while suffering no losses!" The announcer shouted, getting everyone to cheer even louder.

Ash, Incineroar and Marshadow approached Ritchie who was reassuring Zippo quietly. "Ritchie, that was a great battle," Ash said, getting Ritchie to look at him sadly.

"Yeah, but I barely did any damage to any of your Pokemon. I feel like I was just calling attacks randomly," Ritchie said looking down. Zippo looked at the duo defiantly.

"Incineroar!" Incineroar roared causing both trainer and Pokemon to flinch.

"Incineroar doesn't think so. You gave us the best battle yet. Besides, except for Lycanroc and Incineroar, every Pokemon I've used I've had for less than a year. Most of this tournament hasn't been much of a challenge, but you and Zippo managed to actually put up a great fight against a Pokemon that I have had for nearly 4 years. I look forward to another match with you, and I know Incineroar does too," Ash said holding out his hand to his fellow trainer. Incineroar mirroring the action.

"You know what, I look forward to it too," Ritchie said, grasping the hand. "And don't think that just because you beat me means that the next time you will. I'm going to keep training my Pokemon so that the next time we battle, it will be even better!"

"I look forward to it," Ash said, finishing the shake before both trainers and Pokemon left the ring in high spirits.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

In a small clearing, a crack formed before starting to expand. Eventually, a large whole opened allowing a dark figure to escape.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Ash, that battle was amazing!" Lillie said, hugging her boyfriend. Pikachu jumped onto Ash's shoulder as this was happening.

"Yeah it was. Ritchie was really strong, and despite the unfamiliar battle style for him, he put up a great fight. He did a lot more damage to Incineroar than he realized," Ash said.

"Incin!" Incineroar barked back flexing his arms.

"I don't think Incineroar agrees with you. He looks like he's ready to fight again," Mallow said giggling.

"I would agree, but…" Ash gently pressed his hand against Incineroar causing him to flinch. "This is what I meant by Incineroar taking more damage. Take a nice rest. I might need you for the next fight," Ash said, returning the Pokemon. As he was returned, Incineroar gave a quick thumbs up.

"So, the semifinals," Kukui said. "What Nasty Plot do you have for it?"

"It's a full double battle, so I want to have some balance, but I also have some Pokemon that have been waiting to battle. I'll need to think about this," Ash said thoughtfully. Before anything else could be said, a song started to play.

"Sorry about this," Kukui said, pulling out his phone. "This is Kukui. Yes, I'm with them now. Putting you on speaker now."

"Ultra-guardians," Lusamine's voice came from the phones getting the group of teens to straighten up. "We've recently gotten readings of an Ultra Wormhole near your location. I'm sorry to pull you from the tournament Ash, but no one outside of Alola has any experience with Ultra Beasts."

"No problem, Lusamine," Ash said. "I finished my last match anyways so no worries here. Anything else you can tell us?"

"Unfortunately not. We can only give a general location of where the Ultra Wormhole has opened. Rotom Dex, please download the information now," Lusamine explained.

"But there is no port for me to connect with," Rotom Dex pointed out.

"Professor, now would be a good time to try out the new upgrade," Lusamine said.

"Oh right," Kukui said, pressing a button on his phone. A small panel opened on the side of the phone. "This should allow you to directly download the information."

"On it," Rotom Dex said, placing a glowing arm on the port. "Download complete," it said, displaying a map.

"Good, it worked. Now before you go, Hobbes is waiting at your cabin with Beast Balls and other supplies. Good luck, Ultra Guardians," Lusamine said.

"Ultroger!" The teenagers said running to meet Hobbes.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Follow me," Rotom Dex said to the group of colorfully dressed teenagers. Each of them was on their personal Ride Pokemon flying towards a wooded area away from the main plateau. As they approached, the group heard ravenous munching near a grouping of trees before one of them fell down.

"It can't be," Ash said hesitantly as Pikachu tensed on his shoulder. "Garchomp, bring me down now." Ash's Pokemon flew down towards the fallen trees.

"Ash, what is it?" Lillie asked guiding her Altaria after him.

"Trouble, and if I'm correct on which Ultra Beast this is, big trouble," Ash said reaching the ground, silently returning Garchomp.

"But most of the Ultra Beasts that we encountered were fairly cooperative after we got them back to the Ultra Wormhole. What's the problem?" Sophocles asked as everyone else jumped off their Ride Pokemon and returned them.

"Shh, stay down," Ash shushed everyone as they hid behind a few of the broken trees. Ash peeked over the wreckage before turning back, his face pensive.

"Ash, what's wrong? You've been really tense since the mission started. You can tell us," Lillie said, stepping up to her boyfriend.

"Alright," Ash said. "Do you remember when I suddenly came to school shouting about going to a different world?"

"Vaguely," Kiawe said. "I thought that you just hit your head." Everyone else nodded their heads in agreement.

"I can see why, but what I said is true. I'll explain everything later, but right now we are dealing with the Ultra Beast called Guzzlord, a Dark and Dragon type. It has a never-ending hunger and can eat your attacks. We're going to have to go full throttle because all this thing cares about is its next meal," Ash said.

"Is it really that big a problem? We've faced several Ultra Beasts before and actually defeated a couple of them in combat," Mallow asked.

"This thing is responsible for destroying my Melemele island," a male voice said from behind them. The group turned behind them to find Z standing on a tree branch with a humanoid yellow Pokemon beside him.

"Zeraora!/Pika!" Ash and Pikachu shouted. Zeraora smirked before he tossed a berry to Pikachu.

"Wait, if Zeraora is here then…Dia!" Ash asked, pointing at the cloaked man.

"It's good to see you, Ash. I wish it were under better circumstances though," Dia said pulling down his hood. "As much as I want to catch up, we have a bigger problem to deal with. You said you were part of a task force that dealt with Ultra Beasts, but all I see is a bunch of little kids," he said getting tick marks to form on everyone's heads, excluding Ash and Pikachu.

"Hey, we're not just…" Kiawe started before a hand slammed over his mouth.

"Shh. I know you're angry, but we have a bigger issue to deal with, so whatever issues that anyone has with anyone, can be dealt with after we deal with Guzzlord," Ash whisper-shouted stepping between the two males.

"I've never seen Ash act like this. Lillie, Lana can you explain what's causing my brother to act like this?" Mallow asked as she watched Dia and Ash start to look over a piece of paper to the bewilderment of the group.

"Ash has gotten like this several times while traveling," Lana said quietly. "He just suddenly changes personalities and becomes super serious. The most memorable time this has happened, we had to stop a bunch of poachers from attacking a giant Dragonite."

"What!" Sophocles shouted before covering his mouth seeing Dia's and Ash's angry faces. "Please tell me this is one of your fibs?"

"Nope. For once, I'm not lying about a crazy event. Ash has put on his serious face. We need to focus on what's about to happen or we might get hurt," Lana said seriously.

"I'm glad one of you is thinking straight," Dia said, startling the group. "Good. Now, Ash and I have come up with a basic plan to deal with Guzzlord, but first we need to go over some of what we know about it."

"Hold on, why should we trust you?" Kiawe asked.

"Because I'm the most experienced person when it comes to fighting Guzzlord," Dia explained calmly. "I wasn't kidding when I said that one destroyed the Melemele Island of my world. Guzzlord is an extremely powerful Ultra Beast with an even greater defense. It was able to take both Zeraora's and Pikachu's Gigavolt Havoc with minimal damage." Dia said to the surprise of the Ultra Guardians.

"The best way to defeat it would be to push it back through the Ultra Wormhole it came from which is thankfully on the ground and nearby. Thankfully, while Guzzlord is extremely durable, it's slow," Dia continued showing the paper was a partially drawn map. "The Ultra Wormhole is located around here," he said pointing to a spot on the map.

"We just have to guide it back. It sounds easy, but from what you've said, it's going to be much more difficult than it seems," Kiawe said thoughtfully.

"It's not going to be easy," Ash suddenly chimed in, getting looks from everyone. "But we have a plan."

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Pikachu, thunderbolt!" Ash said. Pikachu shouted its name before blasting it with a bolt of lightning.

"Zeraora, Plasma Fist!" Dia shouted. Zeraora slammed its paws into the ground sending a wave of electricity striking Guzzlord.

"Guzzlord!" It shouted turning around and firing waves of sludge at the two Pokemon. Pikachu and Zeraora dodged the attacks before they started to run into the forest. Guzzlord roared before chasing after them.

"Do you think this is still a good idea?" Dia asked as they ran away from the rampaging Ultra Beast.

"Eh, it worked for us last time didn't it?" Ash said as Pikachu blocked an attack with Iron Tail.

"True. At least this time, we have back up," Dia said as he dodged a stray poison blob.

"Heads up. You're about to hit the drop point," Sophocles said above the tree line riding Metang who absorbed any stray poison attacks.

"Got it. Get ready, Pikachu. It's about to get real," Ash said jumping over a fallen branch and looking around the area. "There!" He shouted suddenly dropping downward with Dia and Zeraora following him. The four were sliding down a frozen hill at high speeds. "Good work, Lillie, Snowy, and Altaria!" Ash shouted to the Alolan Vulpix and her trainer sitting on the stationary Altaria.

"Good luck, Ash! Everything is ready at the bottom!" Lillie shouted.

"Got it, thanks," Ash said looking toward the bottom. Kiawe and Lana were standing at the bottom with Turtanator and Primarina ready standing on opposite sides of a still open Ultra Wormhole. Mallow stood further back with Tsareena ready to pounce. As Ash and Dia reached the bottom, Ash jumped towards Lana while Dia and Zeraora jumped towards Kiawe. Meanwhile, Guzzlord finally reached the top of the hill and slipped on the patches of ice tumbling down towards the Wormhole.

"Everyone get ready. When it reaches the bottom, we need to immobilize it. If you have an Ice type attack, freeze it in place!" Dia shouted, releasing a Blastoise. "Blastoise, release a Blizzard attack on my signal!"

"Primarina, soak Guzzlord with Sparkling Aria! Let's make it easier for them to freeze them!" Lana said. Her Primarina started singing, forming a bubble of water above her nose before pushing it towards Guzzlord. The bubble broke when it collided with Guzzlord soaking it in water.

"Do it now!" Dia said. Blastoise launched a flurry of snow at the stunned Guzzlord.

"Araquanid, use Ice Beam!" Ash said, releasing his water spider.

"Dragonair, use Ice Beam, too!" Lana said. The two Pokemon formed a beam of icy energy that impacted the flailing Ultra Beast and froze it in a block of ice.

"All right, we got it!" Ash said. "Let's push it in the portal."

"Turtonator, you're up!" Kiawe said.

"Metang, help him out," Sophocles said as he and Lillie flew towards the group.

"Turton," Turtonator grunted slowly pushing the frozen Pokemon towards the portal with Metang's help. Cracks started to form around the cube as the duo approached the wormhole.

"Just a little bit more," Dia said as more cracks formed.

"Push harder Turtonator!" Kiawe shouted.

"Incineroar, I need your assistance!" Ash said releasing the Heel Pokemon. "Incineroar, I need you to push Guzzlord into the Ultra Wormhole!"

"Incineroar!" He grunted pushing the block with all his might speeding its movement as the cracks started to grow wider.

"Use Bulk Up!" Ash said. Incineroar roared as his muscles expanded before pushing even harder. The three Pokemon were able to push the block a few feet away from the edge before Guzzlord finally broke free, sending the three Pokemon flying towards their trainers. Turtanator and Metang slid against the ground while Incineroar managed to land on his feet with minimum injury.

"Turtanator!/Metang!" Kiawe and Sophocles yelled.

"It doesn't even have a scratch on it!" Lillie shouted.

"Pikachu, Electroweb!" Ash commanded. Pikachu jumped from Ash's shoulder and launched an electric ball at Guzzlord. The ball split into a web that trapped Guzzlord in place.

"Mallow now!" Dia shouted.

"Tsareena, use Bloom Doom!" Mallow said, raising her hands in the air as Tsareena jumped in front of Guzzlord.

"Tsareena!" She yelled as a large green orb formed around her drawing energy from the surrounding forest. A giant energy beam blasted from the orb driving Guzzlord towards the Ultra Wormhole. Guzzlord dug its hands into the ground stopping its movement right before the Wormhole.

"It's not enough. We need one more push!" Sophocles screamed.

"Everybody move out of the way!" Ash yelled as he and Pikachu began to do a series of synchronized poses. His friends scrambled out of the way as Ash ended his dance with his arms in a z-shape. "Use Gigavolt Havoc!" Ash said, pumping his fist forward.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu shouted punching a ball of electricity several times its size towards Guzzlord slamming into it.

"Guzz!" Guzzlord roared as it was pushed into the Ultra Wormhole. Everyone was silent as the Wormhole destabilized and closed.

"We did it!" Ash shouted, jumping in the air. "It's an ultra success!"

"Yeah!" Everyone shouted. Sophocles fell to the ground holding his stomach.

"That was just too much. I didn't even really do anything, and I'm exhausted," Sophocles complained falling to his back. Togedemaru hopped over to her trainer's stomach and laid down on it too. A rumbling sound came out of nowhere, startling everyone. They all turned to the source of the sound only to find Ash holding his stomach.

"I guess all the excitement got me hungry," Ash said sheepishly. Dia looked at Ash before he suddenly started to laugh.

"It's good to see you haven't changed," Dia said, calming down. "But you bring up a good point. It's been a bit of a day, so let's get something to eat, my treat."

"Alright!" Ash and Sophocles shouted.

"You're probably going to regret that," Kiawe said. "Ash eats as much as a Snorlax and he has his Snorlax with him, too."

"It's not a problem. Professor Burnet recently got a recipe for some food specifically for Snorlax and Munchlax. I just need to pick some up before we eat," Ash said.

"Well then, feel free to invite them too. You spoke highly about them, and I want to ask them about better ways to deal with Ultra Beasts. See what they did differently so what happened to my Melemele doesn't happen again," Dia said fiddling with his hat as Zeraora patted his back comfortingly.

"Alright, I'll get Papa Kukui and Mama Burnet and we can all eat!" Ash said excitedly, calling out his Garchomp. "Let's go, Garchomp!" He said flying out of the forest.

"Ash wait for us!" Lana and Lillie shouted calling out their individual ride Pokemon and flying after him.

"You think after all this time Ash would have changed, but nope. You tell him there's going to be food and he just rushes off," Mallow said rubbing her forehead with her hand.

"Come on Mallow!" Sophocles said as he hovered overhead with Metang. Dia and Zeraora were standing on it. Kiawe was flying next to them on his Charizard. The two boys waved at her before taking off after their friends.

"Seriously!" Mallow yelled as she called out Flygon and flew after them.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Welcome everyone to the first semifinal match!" The announcer said to the cheering crowd. "This will be a full double battle between two rising stars of the Pokemon World. On the right side, we have a trainer that made it to the top 8 of her home region, Johto! Give it up for the Electabuzz's biggest fan, Casey from New Bark Town!"

"I'm fighting for the honor of the Electabuzzes!" Casey shouted, waving a flag with an Electabuzz on it.

"On the left side from Melemele Island of the Alola Region, he's been dominating the competition with his powerful Pokemon, Ash Ketchum!" The announcer shouted to the joy of the viewer and Ash's family and friends.

"Go Ash!" Lana, Lillie, Sophocles and Kiawe shouted.

"Pika-pi!" Pikachu shouted from Lillie's shoulder.

"Marowak," Kiawe's Marowak shouted, starting to dance.

"Let's have a good battle," Ash said, walking out for some reason also carrying a flag, but this time with a Magikarp on it.

"Hey, what's with that terrible flag?" Casey shouted angrily.

"Hmm, this?" Ash said, waving his flag. "I read your trainer's page and found out that you were a huge Electubuzz fan. Well, Oluolu is a graduate from Melemele's Pokemon School, so I figured I would show my support for my favorite Pokebase team."

"It looks like Ash wants to make this a battle between Pokebase teams. It's the Magikarps vs. the Electabuzz. This looks like this will be a fun battle." The announcer shouted.

"This will be a 6 vs. 6 Double Battle. Substitutions, and Mega Evolution are allowed. Trainers send out your Pokemon!" The referee shouted.

"Let's show our pride for the Electabuzzes. Go Meganium and Beedrill," Casey said, throwing two Pokeballs. A large dinosaur like Pokemon with a flower around its neck and a giant bee with large stingers for hands materialized on the field.

"Squirtle, Bulbasaur, I need your assistance!" Ash shouted as a turtle wearing sunglasses and a small saurian with a bulb on its back materialized on the other side.

"Why is Ash's Squirtle wearing sunglasses?" Kiawe asked.

"That's because Squirtle is the leader of a vicious Pokemon gang called the Squirtle Squad who were plotting to take over the world. It was only through an epic battle that Ash was able to gain Squirtle's respect and stop its plan," Lana said seriously.

"Really!" Sophocles, Mallow and Kiawe shouted.

"Just kidding," Lana said, sticking her tongue out. The three all fell flat on their face hearing this.

"Tell us the real story," Mallow squeaked out.

"Well, Squirtle was the actual leader of a group of Squirtle's that called themselves, but the worst that they did was play pranks on a nearby town. When Ash caught his Squirtle, the remaining ones formed a firefighting squad called the Squirtle Squad," Lillie said.

"There's more," Sophocles said looking over his computer. "Apparently, the Squirtle Squad has been reaching out to all abandoned Pokemon throughout Kanto. They are quickly growing into the largest and most effective emergency response team in the region."

"I've talked to Mother about something like that for the more restless Pokemon at Aether Paradise. She thinks it would be a great idea," Lillie said.

"Maybe I should do something similar back home on the ranch," Kiawe considered.

"Be quiet the match is starting," Mallow shouted.

"Battle begin!" The referee said.

"This will be easy. Do you know how many trainers used those Pokemon on my journey? They're not even fully evolved," Casey said dismissively causing Squirtle and Bulbasaur to growl. "Meganium use Body Slam on Bulbasaur. Beedrill use Twineedle on Squirtle!" The two Pokemon started dashing towards Ash's Pokemon with Beedrill being notably faster than Meganium. Beedrill's stingers glowed blue before it started to stab at Squirtle. Meganium jumped high into the air before descending towards Bulbasaur.

"Bulbasaur, Vine Whip into Sludge Bomb. Squirtle, Hydro Pump," Ash commanded. Bulbasaur extended his vines and used them to jump away from the descending dinosaur causing it to slam into the ground. He started firing balls of sludge at the dazed grass-type. Squirtle, meanwhile, started withdrawing into his shell and bounced off the attacking Beedrill's stinger. He spun in the air and released a large stream of water from the holes in his shell slamming into Beedrill and drenching its wings causing it to fall onto the ground immobile.

"Skull Bash," Ash said. Squirtle focused the stream of water under him launching him into the air. He popped his head out of his shell which started to glow white before he fell into Beedrill.

"Meganium, stop Squirtle with Vine Whip!" Casey shouted desperately. Meganium sent out her vines towards the descending turtle.

"Don't let it, Bulbasaur. Use Magical Leaf," Ash said. Bulbasaur launched a large amount of multicolored leaves at Meganium's vines striking them. She flinched but managed to redirect Squirtle away from her immobile teammate. Squirtle landed headfirst dazing it.

"While he's down, Meganium use Razor Leaf! Beedrill keep Bulbasaur occupied with Twineedle," Casey yelled. Meganium twirled her head and launched dozens of leaves at Squirtle while Beedrill started launching energy needles at Bulbasaur.

"Squirtle get out of there with Rapid Spin then Aura Sphere! Bulbasaur deflect the needles with Razor Leaf. Then follow up with Sludge Bomb," Ash said. Squirtle shook the cobwebs out of his head before he withdrew into his shell and spun into the air, managing to dodge most of Meganium's attack. He popped out and cupped hands together forming a ball of energy before launching it at the dinosaur. It struck Meganium causing her to be launched back.

Meanwhile, Bulbasaur launched his own leaves at the needles deflecting a few but was ultimately struck by the majority of the attack. He kept his ground and launched a few balls of poison at the bee striking it back out of the air.

"Meganium, Beedrill, no!" Casey shouted at her two Pokemon. The two managed to get up and stared defiantly at their opponents. All four Pokemon were panting as they awaited their trainers next command.

"Alright you two, let's finish this. Squirtle Surf! Bulbasaur use your vines to stay afloat, like we practiced. Begin charging Solar Beam," Ash said. Squirtle summoned a large wave of water underneath him and Bulbasaur. Bulbasaur set vines underneath his feet using him to surf the wave as a glow started to form at his bulb.

"How's Bulbasaur surfing?" Mallow asked.

"That's something that Ash has been working on. He got inspired when he saw Sandy surfing on Primarina's Surf. Bulbasaur uses his vines as something similar to a board to keep him above the wave. He calls the maneuver Surfasaur," Lana explained to her exasperated friends.

"I don't think that is what he calls it," Mallow mumbled.

"What!" Casey screamed frantically. "Beedrill fly above the wave. Meganium try to dodge it." Beedrill flew above the wave managing to dodge the attack, but Meganium wasn't so lucky. She was hit by the full force of the attack and was pushed into the stadium wall.

"Meganium, get up!" Casey yelled at her Pokemon before turning towards Ash. "You're going to pay for that! Beedrill hit Bulbasaur with an Electro Web! Don't let the Solar Beam fire." Beedrill thrust its stingers forward launching an electric web at Bulbasaur.

"Bulbasaur, get out of there!" Ash shouted. Before it reached the Kanto Starter, it was pushed out of the way by Squirtle who took the full force of the attack, shocking it greatly. "Squirtle, hang in there and use Hydro Pump on Meganium before it can recover. Bulbasaur, unleash Solar Beam." Squirtle managed to launch a massive torrent of water at Casey's downed starter pushing it back into the wall where it fell to the ground with swirls in its eyes. Squirtle managed a smirk before it fell face down. Meanwhile, Bulbasaur launched a beam of light at Beedrill knocking it out of the air in a cloud of smoke.

"Meganium, Squirtle, and Beedrill are unable to battle. Trainers send out your next Pokemon," the referee said.

"Squirtle return. You did amazing. Take a nice rest," Ash said before taking out a new Pokeball. "Go Charizard!"

"Meganium, Beedrill return. You guys did great," Casey said to her two Pokemon as they returned. She tossed another pair of Pokeballs. "Rapidash, Ampharos, help me out!" A horse with a fiery mane and a yellow and black bipedal sheep appeared on Casey's side. "Rapidash use Flare Blitz on Bulbasaur. Ampharos Thunder Punch." The two Pokemon rushed towards their opponents as fire enveloped Rapidash's body and electricity formed around Ampharos' arms.

"Bulbasaur ground Ampharos. Charizard Steel Wing," Ash said. Bulbasaur jumped in front of the charging sheep and after stabbing a vine into the ground, he wrapped another vine around Ampharos' charged arm sending electricity into the ground. He followed up by launching several seeds at the trapped sheep wrapping him in roots. Charizard flew towards Rapidash with the wings glowing silver. He struck the legs of the charging horse causing it to be launched in the air. Unfortunately, Rapidash was sent flying into Bulbasaur making it so the flaming horse struck Bulbasaur causing it to fly into the wall.

"Ash is playing really smart out there," Professor Kukui said.

"How so, Professor?" Mallow asked.

"He purposefully uses moves that either negate the opponent's attacks or using moves in a way that stops them from building momentum. He's been in control for most of the matches he's been inm and this is the first time that his strategy really backfired on him. When did he pick that skill up?" Kukui asked.

"He started doing it shortly after he finished training with Kahuna Nanu. It's gotten us out of a few tough trials like when we fought that giant Onix. I still hate Bruno for just watching us fight it and catching it after we weakened it," Lana said.

"Bulbasaur is unable to battle. Trainer Ash, send out your next Pokemon," the referee stated.

"You did a great job. Thank you," Ash said, returning the grass dinosaur before pulling out a new one. "Snorlax for the Magikarps!" The large bear appeared on the field yawning.

"You just had to bring out your Snorlax!" Casey yelled waving her flag. "Just like the Magikarps, always relying on Snorlax to pull you out of a tough situation. Not like the Electubuzzes where everyone pulls their own weight."

"You're kidding me. I've seen the Electabuzzes play, and they rely far too much on their Electabuzz pitcher," Ash shot back smirking.

"Yeah Ash. You tell her who the better team is!" Kiawe screamed leaning over the railing before being pulled back by Mallow and Lana.

"How dare you say that! Rapidash Giga Impact! Ampharos Thunder!" Casey yelled. Rapidash charged towards Snorlax, a white aura flowing around it. Ampharos bagan to charge electricity around itself.

"Snorlax meet Rapidash with your own Giga Impact! Charizard Flamethrower," Ash said swinging his flag. Snorlax rushed forward with speed matching that of Rapidash, a greater aura forming around him. When the two clashed, a brief struggle between the two before Snorlax overpowered Rapidash sending it flying. Charizard fired a blue beam from his mouth blocking the massive bolt of lightning causing a cloud of smoke to form.

"High Horsepower, Snorlax. Charizard, Slash," Ash said. The two charged into the smoke with their respective attacks forming around them.

"Get out of there!" Casey yelled. Her two Pokemon jumped out of the smoke. They were quickly followed by Snorlax and Charizard. Charizard slashed his opponents' legs causing them to halt in place allowing Snorlax to slam into them and crush them under his great bulk. When Snorlax got off of them, their eyes were swirly.

"Rapidash and Ampharos are unable to battle. Trainer Casey, send out your final two Pokemon," the referee said. Casey wordlessly returned her two Pokemon before pulling out her final two Pokeballs.

"Magmar, Electabuzz, you're up to bat!" Casey yelled, pitching the balls. With a thud, two bipedal Pokemon appeared facing against Ash. "Alright you two, we have an uphill battle ahead of us. This jerk decided that the Magikarps are better than the Electubuzzes!" Casey shouted. Her two new Pokemon roared in defiance. "Ice Punch on Snorlax. Smog on Charizard!" A blue glow formed around the charging Electabuzz's fist. Magmar took a deep breath before releasing a large cloud of purple smoke at Charizard.

"Looks like we're in the final inning. Let's show them we're not someone to take lightly!" Ash said. Charizard and Snorlax pounded their chests. "Snorlax use your own Ice Punch. Charizard, Air Slash followed by Flamethrower." In a clash of ice, Snorlax's and Electubuzz's punches met, reaching a stalemate but sending Electubuzz sliding back. Meanwhile, Charizard flapped his wings launching a blade of wind at the cloud creating a vacuum that sent it back towards Magmar.

"Magmar dodge!" Casey shouted. Magmar was able to dodge the wind blade, but the smoke managed to reach him. It started coughing and was unable to react as Charizard's Flamethrower covered him. The poisonous gas was ignited creating an explosion that sent Magmar into Electabuzz.

"Now's our chance. Straight from Oluolu," Ash said crossing his arms, his Z-ring glowing. "Passion and sweat. Tears and guts. Feel the Burn," Ash said as he and Snorlax did a series of poses.

"No…" Casey mumbled. "Anything but that."

"Run Snorlax. Use Pulverizing Pancake. Go!" Snorlax rocketed forward at speeds to fast for the eye to follow. Just as he was about to run into the dazed Magmar and Electabuzz, he jumped high into the air.

"Thunderbolt! Flamethrower! Do anything!" Casey yelled, waving her arms frantically. The two Pokemon tried to fire off an attack, but they were too late. Snorlax crashed into the two downed Pokemon and created a giant explosion. "Electabuzz, Magmar, no!" Casey shouted. As the explosion cleared, the flattened bodies of Electabuzz and Magmar floated down.

"Electabuzz and Magmar are unable to battle! Trainer Casey is out of usable Pokemon. Ash Ketchum from Melemele Island is the winner!" The referee said.

"Alright!" Ash shouted as Snorlax and Charizard walked over to their trainer. Snorlax picked up his trainer and began to hug him. "I'm glad that you are happy for the win, but I do need to breathe." Ash managed to wheeze out. Snorlax set Ash down gently.

"Charizard," Charizard said, sending a blast of smoke over Ash. It cleared showing Ash covered in soot.

"What was that for?" Ash demanded wiping his face.

"Char," Charizard said pointing at the Ash's Z-ring.

"Hey, I told you before the battle that Snorlax would be the one using the Z-move! Why are you so mad?" Ash shouted at his Pokemon.

"Charizard," he huffed, crossing his arms before letting out another puff of smoke at Ash.

"Don't give me that!" Ash said jumping away. "Return, you two. We'll talk later."

"Trouble in paradise?" Casey asked her opponent.

"Sorry about that," Ash said. "Charizard loves to show off, and he loves to use a Z-move any chance he has."

"Well, I wanted to thank you for the battle," Casey said, extending her hand. "Despite your choice in Pokebase teams, this was a great battle."

"I'm glad you had fun," Ash said. "You've given me the biggest challenge so far."

"Yeah right," Casey said flatly. "That's only because besides your Snorlax, all the Pokemon you used were only caught recently. I read your profile. You mainly used your Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charizard, so don't pretend."

"I mean yeah, they are only recently caught. However, they deserved to battle in the league especially with all the hard work they did to get me here. I did have two of my strongest Pokemon if you managed to beat Charizard or Snorlax," Ash said.

"Seriously, I barely was able to take out two of your Pokemon! I don't think I would have been able to fight the rest," Casey said.

"You're saying you would have given up," Ash teased.

"Heck no! Just you wait. The next time we battle, I'm going to destroy you!" Casey shouted before storming off.

"What a strange girl," Ash mumbled as he left to meet his friends.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Congratulations, Ash!" Professor Kukui shouted, slapping Ash's back. The group was back at the cabin celebrating Ash's semifinal victory.

"Thanks, Papa Kukui, but don't celebrate too much. I still have to fight Dia, and he spent months fighting Guzzlord. He's really strong, and the only Pokemon I know he has is Zeraora which Pikachu could never beat," Ash said.

"Pika!" Pikachu indignantly squeaked.

"I know, I know. We've gotten a lot stronger, but I can only imagine that Dia has too. We cannot hold back," Ash said patting Pikachu's head.

"You know, I don't think we ever got the full story about how you met Dia," Kiawe said thoughtfully.

"That's right. Tell us more," Rotom Dex pushed.

"That's because you guys didn't believe me when I said," Ash commented.

"Come on, Ash. Don't make me call your mom," Lana threatened pulling up a cell phone.

"Hey, that's mine," Kukui shouted, snatching the phone from his former student.

"There's no need for that, Lana. It all started when Tapu Koko approached us shortly after Nebby appeared," Ash said as he began his tale.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Welcome everyone to the final battle of the Indigo League! It's a beautiful sunny day for the end of this exciting tournament!" The announcer shouted to the cheering crowd. "Let's give our two finalists a warm welcome. He's an up and coming trainer. Here's Ash Ketchum from Melemele Island!" Ash walked onto the field with Pikachu on his shoulder.

"I do hope you win!" Lillie shouted as Snowy rested in her arms.

"Kick his butt, Ash!" Lana shouted.

"We're rooting for you!" Mallow yelled.

"What are you three wearing?" Sophocles asked.

"Ash, Ash, you can do it!" Kukui, Burnet, and Kiawe all yelled waving fans with headbands wrapped tightly around their heads.

"From Melemele Island, he's a mysterious trainer that has beaten every opponent with a single Pokemon. Give it up for Dia!" Dia walked calmly into the field with Zeraora walking slowly behind him.

"Well Ash, it looks like we'll finally have our battle," Dia said shaking the younger trainer's hand.

"I'm really looking forward to it. I've gotten a lot stronger since the last time we've met," Ash said grinning. The two trainers went back to their sides.

"This will be a six-on-six battle. Substitutions, Z-moves and Mega Evolutions are permitted. Trainers, release your Pokemon," the referee said.

"Blastoise, front and center," Dia said, releasing his large water turtle. On its forehead was a band with a stone embedded in it.

"Garchomp, I need your assistance!" Ash said as his dragon materialized. A band was wrapped around its chest.

"Battle begin!" The referee shouted.

"Blastoise, Hydro Pump!" Dia shouted. Blastoise lowered his body and launched two massive spouts on its back.

"Garchomp, Sandstorm!" Ash commanded snapping his finger. A whirlwind of sand formed around Garchomp blocking the water and obscuring the battlefield. When the sand died down, Garchomp was gone.

"Stay vigilant, Blastoise. It can come up from anywhere," Dia warned. There was a slight rumbling as Garchomp burst from the ground to the left of Blastoise, its claws glowing light blue. "Iron Defense, now." Blastoise retreated into its shell right before Garchomp slashed it causing the claw to barely scratch it. "Ice Beam." Blastoise popped its head out a ball of ice blue energy forming.

"Block it," Ash called out. Garchomp brought its wings in front of the beam negating most of the damage but allowing one of the wings to be encased in ice. Garchomp jumped back to the other side of the field watching Blastoise.

"Hey Ash! Let's make this more interesting," Dia said bringing up a badge with a keystone embedded in it.

"Let's do this," Ash said, twisting his Z-ring to reveal the keystone embedded in it.

"Garchomp!/Blastoise!" Ash and Dia yelled pressing their fingers to their keystones. "Mega Evolve!" Streams of light connected trainer and Pokemon as Garchomp and Blastoise transformed.

"Dragon Rush/Dragon Pulse!" Ash and Dia shouted simultaneously. Blastoise started charging a massive purple energy dragon, but before it could launch it, Garchomp plowed into it covered in a raging aura. The force of attack caused Blastoise to be pushed back, but it grit its teeth and launched its attack. The Dragon Pulse slammed into Garchomp causing a cloud of dust to form around it.

"Garchomp, do it," Ash mumbled, snapping his fingers again. The dust picked up as a sandstorm formed around the two trainers.

"Why does Ash keep snapping his fingers?" Sophocles asked.

"That's another strategy Ash and I have been doing. Since some of our Pokemon's moves make it hard for them to hear us, we started using various sounds to give a command," Lillie said.

"How does that work?" Mallow asked.

"Well certain sounds are either more recognizable or travel better through different material," Kukui said. "It certainly is a great Assist for your Pokemon to know that their trainer is still looking out for them."

"It also helps because your opponent isn't able to guess what you are planning," Burnet said.

"Iron Defense," Dia yelled. Though unseen by the crowd, Garchomp burrowed behind the withdrawn Blastoise striking it with glowing claws multiple times.

Up in the stands, Sophocles scratched his head

"Fire Blast into its shell," Ash commanded. Garchomp ceased its barrage to release a blast of fire into the head of Blastoise's shell.

"Blastoise!" Dia shouted. Blastoise popped out of its shell looking a little burned but not all the worse for wear. It appeared that way before a small wave of fire appeared briefly around its body. "Its burned. I have to finish this fast. Blastoise, Aura Sphere, rapid fire." Multiple spheres of blue energy formed from Blastoise's cannons that blasted towards Garchomp.

"Dragon Rush!" Ash barked. Garchomp rushed towards Blastoise once more, slowing slightly but otherwise plowed through the attacks towards Blastoise.

"Blastoise Ice Beam!" Dia yelled. Blastoise began forming the attack, but the attack dissipated as a wave of flames formed around them. Seeing the opening, Garchomp blitz forward hitting the turtle at full force. Blastoise slid backwards before it charged and launched the attack. It hit the winded Garchomp freezing it in place.

"Garchomp! Fire Blast!" Ash said. Garchomp started to build up the attack, melting the ice around its head.

"Don't let it finish. Hydro Pump!" Dia said. Blastoise fired three massive streams of water towards the partially frozen dragon meeting the fire blast creating a cloud of steam. "Aura Sphere!" Three spheres were launched into the cloud homing into Garchomp.

"Thank you, Dia," Ash said, smirking just before the orbs hit the still frozen Garchomp. "Sandstorm!" Ash said. The ice broke right at the point of impact with the attack as sand formed underneath the shell protecting Garchomp. "Iron Head." Garchomp flew towards Blastoise, its head forming an iron shell.

"Dark Pulse!" Dia shouted. Blastoise fired multiple beams of black rings towards the charging Pokemon. The two attacks met creating a power struggle.

"Dragon Rush!" Ash yelled. The familiar aura formed around Garchomp allowing it to begin to cut through the attack.

"Blastoise full power!" Dia screamed. Blastoise's attack increased in size, halting Garchomp though doing no damage thanks to the Dragon Rush.

"Garchomp, I know you can do it!" Ash encouraged. Suddenly, Garchomp's attack tripled in size and in an instant, Garchomp crashed into Blastoise creating a giant explosion.

"Garchomp!/Blastoise!" The two trainers yelled. They anxiously waited with bated breath as the smoke cleared. Standing on one knee was Garchomp while Blastoise stumbled though it managed to stand panting heavily.

"Dragon Pulse!" Dia said. Blastoise began to charge his attack before firing it.

"Garchomp, get out of there!" Ash shouted. Garchomp began to move, but his leg seized causing him to fall back on one knee. "Garchomp!" Ash yelled as the attack blasted into Garchomp. Garchomp fell onto its face reverting into its normal form.

"Garchomp is unable to battle. Trainer Ash, send in your next Pokemon!" The referee shouted.

"Blastoise, are you still able to go?" Dia asked. Blastoise nodded though it stumbled as a fresh wave of embers flew over it.

"You did a good job, Garchomp. He was just a little stronger than you," Ash said, returning the dragon before pulling another Pokeball out. "Melmetal, it's time to shine!" Ash said, releasing his Pokemon. A giant metal figure with several hex nuts formed on the field.

"Mel!" It shouted flexing.

"I'm glad to see you have more spirited Pokemon, but don't think that this is going to do you any favors," Dia said. "Blastoise, Hydro Pump." Blastoise blasted a high-powered stream of water towards the flexing metal giant.

"Double Iron Bash!" Ash said. Melmetal started to spin rapidly becoming a blur as it met the attack head on. The rapid spinning dispersed the water allowing Melmetal to stretch his arms forward to bash Blastoise sending it flying back towards the wall. The impact broke some parts of it as Blastoise became embedded into it. It fell out and reverted to its normal form in a dead faint.

"Blastoise is unable to battle! Trainer send out your next Pokemon!" The announcer said.

"That Pokemon is ridiculously strong," Dia said as he silently returned Blastoise. "Thank you for your hard work. Blissey, I need your help." A pink egg shaped Pokemon appeared on the field wearing a nurse's hat. It looked around helplessly.

"Blissey?" She asked looking at Dia.

"Sorry, Blissey, but I need you for a battle," Dia said.

"Bliss," she huffed.

"I know, I know. I'll let you look over everyone after the battle, but I really need you right now," Dia pleaded.

"Blissey," she said seemingly satisfied before taking off her hat. As she put it into her egg pouch, her expression suddenly became more serious.

"I'm suddenly not feeling quite so confident in this battle," Ash mumbled to himself.

"Pika," Pikachu whispered to Ash.

"I'll send you out there if you don't watch yourself," Ash bit back causing Pikachu to wave his arms at his trainer.

"Blissey, let's start off with an Egg Bomb," Dia said. Blissey pulled out an egg and threw it at Melmetal who twisted out of the way. Behind it, the egg created a small explosion.

"Double Iron Bash!" Ash commanded. Melmetal continued to spin before launching his arms forward towards Blissey.

"Catch it," Dia said. Blissey brought her short arms up and caught the attacking limbs.

"What!" Ash yelled as Melmetal was pulled towards Blissey. "This is Incineroar all over again." He said putting a hand to his forehead before focusing on the battle.

"Hyper Beam!" Dia yelled. An orange ball formed above Blissey's head. It launched forward slamming into Melmetal causing its head to be pushed backward and Blissey to release its hold on Melmetal.

"Superpower," Ash said. Melmetal's right hex nut glowed orange as it brought its hand down towards Blissey. Blissey was unable to dodge it resulting in a large crater forming underneath the exhausted Pokemon.

"Focus Punch!" Dia shouted. With speed betraying her size, Blissey shot from underneath Melmetal's hand and struck Melmetal's head with a glowing fist. Melmetal recoiled from the attack stumbling backward a few paces away. "Keep it up. Dazzling Gleam!" A pink sphere of energy formed around Blissey as she rocketed towards Melmetal.

"Iron Defense!" Ash said. Melmetal hardened its body catching the attacking Pokemon in its chest. "Now, Flash Cannon!" Ash shouted. A silver beam was blasted from Melmetal's head nut sending Blissey flying back.

"Heal Pulse!" Dia said. Blissey released a wave of green psychic energy at its feet healing some of the bruises and scratches. "Now Egg Bomb!" Blissey threw the egg at Melmetal's feet.

"Stop it. Use Thunder Punch!" Ash yelled. Melmetal began to stretch its left hex nut covered in electricity, but the egg bomb struck the ground causing it to fall over.

"Excellent work, Blissey! Now return," Dia said, returning the nurse Pokemon. "Houndoom, come out!" A devilish dog Pokemon appeared on the battlefield. "While it's still down, Inferno!" Houndoom unleashed a massive stream of blue flames covering the downed Pokemon.

"Melmetal, you've got to get up! Use Double Iron Bash!" Ash shouted. From the flames, two hex nuts flew out and smashed into Houndoom. Melmetal retracted its arm standing confidently before a wave of flames formed around its head causing it to flinch. "It got burned."

"Houndoom, are you okay?" Dia asked. Houndoom nodded before it growled at the swaying Melmetal flames licking at its jaw. "It looks like it can't take much more. Flamethrower!" A much smaller stream of flames was blasted from Houndoom's mouth.

"Power through it with Ice Punch," Ash said. Frost formed around its hex nuts as Melmetal slingshot its arm towards the fire canceling the attack and sending it towards Houndoom.

"Dodge and then Dark Pulse," Dia said. Houndoom jumped onto the hex nut and began charging the attack. When the arm retreated towards Melmetal, Houndoom released a beam of dark circles point blank at Melmetal's face. Melmetal fell backwards with its singular eye shaped like an x.

"Melmetal is unable to battle. Trainer, send out your next Pokemon," the referee shouted.

"Thanks for your hard work, Melmetal. Take a nice long rest," Ash said, returning the Pokemon. "Lycanroc, I need your assistant." His orange wolf formed onto the battlefield howling.

"Let's start this out," Ash said. "Accelerock!" In a burst of speed, Lycanroc shot forward towards Houndoom.

"Catch it with Crunch," Dia said. Houndoom managed to barely dodge the attack before it snapped its jaws around Lycanroc's ear.

"Shake it off," Ash said. Lycanroc began to run around shaking his head, but Houndoom held on tight.

"Flamethrower, then release," Dia said. Flames formed around Houndoom's mouth as it released its jaw. At the same time, a stream of flames covered Lycanroc.

"Lycanroc! Are you ok?" Ash asked, getting a nod from the wolf as its eyes turned red. "Good, now let's turn this around. Stone Edge." Lycanroc growled before it slammed his paws on the ground. Pillars of stone broke out of the ground underneath Houndoom sending it into the air. "Now, use Accelerock!" Lycanroc jumped after the airborne Houndoom, a small aura forming around it.

"Houndoom, Dark Pulse." Houndoom managed to right itself midair before blasting a ray of dark rings at the charging Lycanroc. The ray struck Lycanroc causing it to fall out of the air. "Solar Beam!" Houndoom began to absorb the sun's rays as a green light formed in its mouth.

"Snarl," Ash said. Lycanroc snarled releasing multiple dark waves of energy at the stationary opponent. The attack hit Houndoom causing it to flinch, but it continued to charge the attack.

"Release Solar Beam," Dia stated. Houndoom released a bright green light at Lycanroc.

"Dodge, then Stone Edge," Ash said. Lycanroc dashed forward sliding under the beam before slamming its paws into the ground creating a row of stone pillars that slammed into Houndoom. Unfortunately, the Solar Beam managed to strike Lycanroc's front leg. Houndoom fell to the ground unconscious while Lycanroc breathed heavily amongst the rubble of its attacks.

"Houndoom is unable to battle. Trainer send out your next Pokemon," the referee said.

"Thanks, Houndoom," Dia said, returning the Pokemon. "Passimian, come out." A lemur formed on the field holding a coconut. A red glow appeared around Passimian linking it to Houndoom's Pokeball.

"Lycanroc return. I'm going to need you for later," Ash said. "Incineroar, it's showtime!"

"Incineroar!" It roared flexing its muscles.

"Incineroar, let's start this off with Fire Blast," Ash said. From Incineroar's belt, a flaming symbol of fire formed and launched towards Passimian.

"Take it, then Rock Slide," Dia said.

"Say what now?" Ash asked. As the attack reached the lemur Pokemon, a red aura appeared around Passimian absorbing the attack. It then jumped into the air summoning dozens of large rocks that fell towards Incineroar.

"Destroy it with Darkest Lariat," Ash countered. Incineroar ignited its hands and began to spin rapidly towards the attacks. When it met the Rock Slide, its attack began to shred through it, allowing it to approach the descending Passimian. "Now use Revenge." Incineroar finished tearing through the attack before swiping a glowing arm at Passimian.

"Counter with Drain Punch!" A green orb formed around Passimian's tail which it sent towards the offending limb. The two attacks clashed briefly before Incineroar overpowered Passimian, sending it backwards.

"Looks like Incineroar is stronger. Though I have to know, how did Passimian stop Incineroar's Fire Blast?" Ash asked.

"It's because of Passimian's ability, Receiver," Dia explained. "When an ally faints and Passimian takes its place, Passimian receives the fainted Pokemon's ability. Houndoom has Flash Fire, so all fire attacks you would do are useless."

"Good to know," Ash said, pulling out Incineroar's Pokeball. "Sorry Incineroar, but this is a bad matchup for you. Return." Incineroar gave a thumbs up as he returned to his Pokeball. "Rowlet, it's your turn." In a flash, a small green owl appeared above the lemur Pokemon cooing gently. It was wearing a cloak that made it resemble a Decidueye.

"I'm always surprised by the Pokemon you have," Dia said, placing a hand against his head. "First you have two mythical Pokemon, then a one-of-a-kind Lycanroc, and now you have a Rowlet dressed as a Decidueye. Seriously, if I ever want to meet some unique Pokemon, I'm hanging around you."

"Lana likes to call Rowlet, Decidulet," Ash said, causing Rowlet to puff up its chest. "And all of my Pokemon are unique. But they all have the same thing in common. When it's time to fight, we fight. Leaf Blade!" Rowlet swooped down, its wings both glowing a light green.

"Fling, then Acrobatics," Dia said. Passimian flung its ball towards the descending bird before jumping above Rowlet glowing a sky blue. Rowlet deflected the ball high above it.

"Phantom Force," Ash said. A portal formed in front of Rowlet who quickly flew into it avoiding Passimian. The lemur landed gracefully looking around for its opponent.

"Get ready," Dia warned. Passimian tensed its body before it noticed its descending ball. It jumped after it. "Passimian, no!"

"Now," Ash screamed. Just as Passimian caught its ball, a portal formed behind it. Rowlet rocketed out of it, a golden aura formed around it. It slammed into Passimian launching the stunned primate towards the ground. It crashed into the ground creating a cloud of dust.

"Passimian!" Dia yelled. "Rock Slide!" From the dust, Passimian screeched. Boulders began to fall above Rowlet.

"Above you, Rowlet," Ash yelled. Rowlet narrowly avoided the falling rocks before an especially large one formed right above it. "Feather dance." A veil of feathers appeared around Rowlet cushioning the blow from the rock and allowing it to move out of the way. "That was too close."

"Acrobatics!" Passimian appeared above Rowlet, the blue aura around it before striking its wing.

"Rowlet!" Ash called at the flailing bird.

"Follow through with Drain Punch!" Dia called out. Passimian dove towards Rowlet, the attack forming around its fist.

"Use Sucker Punch!" Ash said. Rowlet managed to right its descent before it shot up towards Passimian. As the two approach each other, Rowlet suddenly gained a burst of speed before striking the lemur's gut with its claw. Passimian cried out but managed to strike Rowlet before it fell backwards to the ground. It landed in a heap unconscious.

"Passimian is unable to battle. Trainer send out your next Pokemon," the referee said.

"Thanks for your help, Passimian," Dia said. "Come out, Golem." A mustached rock with a railgun landed on the field.

"Ooh, an Alolan Golem," Ash said. "This will be fun." Rowlet cooed as it circled around the battlefield.

"Start this off with Stone Edge," Dia said. Golem punched the ground and pillars of stones formed around Rowlet trapping it in a circle of stone.

"Get out of there!" Ash yelled. Rowlet began to fly above the rocks.

"Use Thunder Punch," Dia said. Golem punched a pillar with a sparking fist sending an electric charge throughout the stone pillar. The electricity flowed towards Rowlet striking it midflight. "Now follow through with Heavy Slam." Golem jumped high above the stone pillars; a silver aura formed around its body as it began to descend into the prison.

"Rowlet, Feather Dance!" Ash yelled. A few seconds passed before the pillars broke apart creating a field of dust and broken rocks. "Rowlet!" From the center of the rubble, Golem got off of a flattened Rowlet.

"Rowlet is unable to battle. Trainer send out your next Pokemon!" The referee shouted.

"Return Rowlet," Ash said softly. "Thanks for trying. You did great. Lycanroc, I need your assistance." Once more, Lycanroc appeared on the field flinching slightly when it landed.

"Return Golem, I'm going to need you later," Dia said. "Blissey, I need your help." The egg-shaped Pokemon appeared looking ready for battle.

"Start things off with Snarl," Ash said. Lycanroc released dark waves of sound energy from its mouth.

"Power through it with Dazzling Gleam," Dia countered. A multicolored sphere of energy formed around Blissey as it charged towards Lycanroc dispersing any attacks that met it halfway. It rammed into Lycanroc sending it stumbling backwards.

"Counter," Ash replied. Lycanroc's front spike glowed green as it slashed at Blissey's stomach.

"Hang in there and use Hyper Beam," Dia said. Blissey began to form the ball of energy at its mouth.

"Stone Edge," Ash called out. Lycanroc slammed its front paw into the ground creating a single pillar that grew into Blissey's attack creating a large explosion that threw both Pokemon towards their respective trainers, knocked out.

"Lycanroc and Blissey are unable to battle. Trainers send out your next Pokemon," the referee said.

"Thanks, Blissey," Dia said. "Golem, come back out."

"I'm sorry, Lycanroc," Ash said. "Incineroar, it's showtime."

The two Pokemon appeared staring at each other.

"Rock Blast," Dia said. From Golem's railgun, it began launching rocks towards Incineroar.

"Bulk Up!" Ash shouted. Incineroar's upper muscles once more expanded as the rocks bounced harmlessly off its chest. It caught two of the rocks and threw them at Golem's feet causing it to lose its balance and stop attacking. "Now Revenge!" Incineroar started running towards Golem fists glowing orange.

"Meet it with Thunder Punch!" Dia countered. An electric aura formed around Golem's fist as it lumbered towards Incinerator. The two punched each other. Golem struck Incineroar's stomach first while Incineroar struck Golem's face. The attacks sent Golem sliding backwards a few feet. "Earthquake!" Golem brought its foot into the air.

"Jump!" Ash exclaimed. Right before Golem slammed its foot into the air, Incineroar jumped high into the air. The ground began to shake causing Ash and Dia to stumble on the field.

"Stone Edge!" Dia commanded as he regained his footing. Golem punched the ground causing several jagged stone pillars to form under Incineroar.

"Jump off of it and use Darkest Lariat!" As Incineroar descended, it grabbed onto the top of one of the pillars and stood on the tip of it. It prepared itself before it jumped towards Golem and began spinning rapidly.

"That's something you don't see every day," Dia said as the spinning pokemon drilled itself into Golem sending it sliding back. Incineroar jumped backwards as Golem tried to grab its legs. "Hit it with a Double Edge." Before Incineroar landed, Golem sprinted forward at speeds that betrayed its size, an electric aura of power forming around it.

"Incineroar, you gotta get out of the way," Ash yelled. As the bearded Pokemon approached Incineroar, it moved out of the way experiencing a slight electric charge from the attack. "Now, Revenge!" Incineroar blitz towards its now stationary opponent arms glowing.

"Double Edge, behind you!" Dia shouted. Golem's aura reformed around itself as it started to move towards its charging opponent.

"Switch to Darkest Lariat," Ash countered. Incineroar began to spin rapidly, its fists covered in flames. The two attacks clashed briefly before Golem started to overpower Incineroar pushing it back. "Now add a Fire Blast!" A tornado of flame formed around Incineroar pushing against Golem before creating an explosion between them knocking them onto their backs.

"Golem/Incineroar!" The two trainers yelled. The two Pokemon struggled to get up staring at each other. Incineroar was covered with scratches and some sparks were present on its left leg. Golem meanwhile had several cracks in its armor, and its beard was drooping.

"Golem," it said before it fell forward.

"Incineroar!" Incineroar roared posing to the crowd.

"Golem is unable to battle. Trainer, send in your final Pokemon," the referee said.

"Thanks Golem," Dia said. "Zeraora, it's your time to shine." Zeraora smirked before it leaped into the field.

"Incineroar, don't hold back. Zeraora is strong enough to stand up to Ultra Beasts. Go all out," Ash said.

"Incineroar!" It shouted flexing its muscles.

"Close Combat!" Dia shouted. Zeraora blitzed forwards and began to attack Incineroar with a series of punches and kicks.

"Bulk Up!" Incineroar's upper muscles grew as Zeraora threw a powerful hook at its chest stopping it in its tracks. "Revenge."

"Get out of there!" Dia shouted. Zeraora tried to jump back, but it was stopped by Incineroar grabbing its outstretched arm. Incineroar struck Zeraora's chest with a glowing fist. Incineroar repeated this several times. "Counter with Plasma Fists!" With its arms being engulfed in electricity, Zeraora caught Incineroar's attack before breaking free of Incineroar's grip. It thrust its sparking palms into Incineroar's chest and released a massive amount of electricity causing a blinding light to engulf the stadium.

"Incineroar!" It screamed as the electricity filled its system.

"Hold on and fight back using Fire Blast!" Ash yelled over the scream. Incineroar slowly moved its hands around Zeraora's wrists as a fiery aura formed around it.

"Pull back!" Dia shouted. Zeraora yanked its arms away from Incineroar and jumped away as an enormous blast of fire brushed past its legs. Incineroar fell on one knee panting. "Finish it off with Slash." In a burst of speed, Zeraora rushed towards the downed Pokemon with its claws glowing.

"Fire Fang!" Ash yelled. Incineroar took the slash on its chest and bit down with flaming jaws on Zeraora's paw. Zeraora howled as its fist became engulfed in flame.

"Discharge!" Dia commanded. Zeraora planted its other fist in Incineroar's chest before discharging a large amount of electricity into Incineroar.

"Incineroar!" It screamed as it fell to its knees. It managed one to look at Zeraora and gave a small nod before falling face forward into the ground.

"Zera," Zeraora nodded at its former opponent as it shook its left arm.

"Incineroar is unable to battle. Trainer, send in your final Pokemon," the referee shouted.

"Thanks for everything, Incineroar. Next time, you'll beat him," Ash said softly. He turned to his partner. "You ready for this, Pikachu?"

"Pika!" Pikachu squeaked, jumping off Ash's shoulder and onto the field.

"Well, it looks like Ash has a big advantage," Kiawe said.

"I don't know about that," Kukui pondered, stroking his chin. "While Pikachu is undoubtedly Ash's strongest Pokemon, Zeraora is definitely Dia's, and I would say that Zeraora is stronger."

"Have a little faith, Kukui. Ash has gotten this far. He's got this," Burnet said.

"Plus, Pikachu has gotten a lot stronger. Whenever Pikachu fought, he dominated the battle," Lana said.

"Win this Ash! We're all rooting for you!" Kiawe shouted.

"Go Ash!" Mallow, Lillie, Sophocles, and Lana cheered.

"You hear that, Pikachu? Everyone's rooting for us," Ash reminded his partner, turning his cap around. "Let's give them something to really root for! We're going home with that trophy."

"Pikachu," Pikachu squeaked confidently.

"We're not just going to hand it over to you. You still have to beat Zeraora, and he's raring to go!" Dia called out from across the field.

"Zera," Zeraora said, slamming a hand into its palm.

"We'll see. Pikachu, Quick Attack!" Ash said. In a burst of speed, Pikachu rushed towards Zeraora.

"Dodge and then Fire Punch," Dia said. As Pikachu approached, Zeraora shifted its body out of the way letting Pikachu push past it before punching a flaming fist towards the prone Pokemon. Before it connected, Pikachu pivoted off the ground and jumped over Zeraora's head.

"Brick Break," Ash yelled. Pikachu chopped a glowing tail down onto Zeraora's head.

"Grab it and use Discharge," Dia called out. Zeraora snatched Pikachu and released a stream of electricity into the trapped electric rodent. Pikachu squealed as the electricity overrode his natural immunity. "Now Close Combat." Zeraora released Pikachu and readied its fist.

"Iron Tail," Ash countered. Pikachu swung his tail down, sending him under Zeraora's fist before he dug underground.

"Be careful, Zeraora! When Pikachu appears, use Fire Punch," Dia said. Zeraora started looking around for Pikachu. Suddenly, Pikachu blasted out of the earth and struck Zeraora with an Iron Tail before jumping underground. "Plasma Fist down the hole!" Zeraora slammed its fist on the edge of the hole sending a wave of electricity down it.

"Pikachu, get out of there!" Ash called out. Almost immediately, Pikachu jumped out of the ground as electricity followed after it.

"Slash," Dia said. In the blink of an eye, Zeraora was behind Pikachu swinging a glowing claw at Pikachu.

"Brick Break!" Ash countered. Pikachu met the attack with its glowing tail before it was sent flying backwards. Pikachu skidded to a halt as the two Pokemon stared defiantly at each other.

"Discharge!/Electroweb!" The two trainers yelled simultaneously. Zeraora surrounded itself in a yellow aura before letting loose electric energy all around him while Pikachu jumped into the air, creating an electric orb on his tail before flinging it at Zeraora. The orb expanded into an electric web that wrapped around the electricity Zeraora released and then exploded creating a cloud of smoke.

"Quick Attack!" Ash yelled. Pikachu darted in the cloud, a white trail following his movements.

"Be ready with a Fire Punch," Dia said. Flames wrapped Zeraora's paws, as it got into a ready stance. It was not ready for when the ground underneath its feet gave out and sent it waist deep into the earth. "Zeraora, get out of there!" Zeraora began to try to pull its body out of the whole

"Iron Tail," Ash called out. From the smoke, Pikachu ran out with a shining tail and struck the trapped Zeraora several times with it.

"Use Plasma Fists!" Dia ordered. Still being attacked, Zeraora slammed its paws onto the ground sending a stream of electricity around it. The force of the attack lifted Zeraora around the ground and knocked Pikachu out of the air. "Follow up with Close Combat!" Zeraora rushed towards the dazed Pokemon and started to land several punches and kicks on him before finally kicking him towards Ash. Its eyes never leaving its opponent as its chest heaved up and down.

"Pikachu, are you alright?" Ash asked. Pikachu got up, shaking his head.

"Pika!" Pikachu cheered, sending a thumbs up. Pikachu was breathing heavily, glaring at Zeraora.

"Zeraora, let's finish this," Dia said displaying his Z-ring on his wrist.

"Zera," Zeraora nodded.

"It's time for a Z-move, Pikachu!" Ash said, tossing his hat to Pikachu. On his wrist, his Electrium-Z shone before morphing to have a Pikachu tail on it.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu said, putting the hat on.

"Built by our promise to protect the Alola Region, our strength rises to strike our opponents down with the force of a Thunderbolt," Dia said as he and Zeraora did a series of poses before ending with their arms crossed like a lightning bolt. A yellow aura flowed from Dia to Zeraora. "Use Gigavolt Havoc!" A colossal ball of blue electricity formed at Zeraora's fist before it was launched towards Pikachu.

"Let's show them what our full power looks like!" Ash shouted, crossing his arms. His Z-Power Ring glowed a golden light.

"Pika Pika!" Pikachu shouted, adjusting his hat. He jumped up towards Ash and fist bumped with Ash before slapping his tail against Ash's hand. Pikachu landed in front of Ash, before they both slid their left foot outward and punched forward with their right limb. The same yellow aura flew from Ash into Pikachu.

"Larger than any thunderbolt. The strength of our bond will overpower all that stands in our way!" Ash announced. Above Pikachu, a storm cloud formed. Lightning flew from the cloud, enveloping Pikachu in an electric aura. "Pikachu, use 10,000,000 Volt Thunderbolt!"

"Pika Pika Pika," Pikachu built up as it ran towards the ball. "Pika CHUUUUUUU!" Seven orbs of multicolored lights were launched from Pikachu and clashed with Zeraora's Z-move. There was a brief power struggle, before Pikachu's Z-move began to push it back.

"We're not giving up! Go for it, Zeraora!" Dia shouted confidently.

"Zera Ora!" It grunted as it sent electricity into the ball. It doubled, then tripled in size and began to push back against Pikachu's attack.

"We're not giving up! Pikachu, use your full power!" Ash yelled.

"Pika Chuuuu!" Pikachu screamed as power rushed out his body. The seven orbs absorbed the blue orbs, each growing to twice their size, and slammed into Zeraora. Zeraora flew back into the wall, embedding itself several inches into it.

"Zeraora!" Dia shouted. Zeraora fell out of the wall, knocked out.

"Zeraora is unable to battle. Dia is out of usable Pokemon. Ash Ketchum is the winner of the Indigo League!" The referee shouted.

"We did it, Pikachu!" Ash cheered.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu shouted as he jumped onto Ash's shoulder.

"I got you," Dia said. He hoisted Zeraora's arm over his shoulder and lifted him off the ground.

"Dia!" Ash called out, approaching his former opponent. "That was a great battle. It's been awhile since we had to fight so hard."

"Thanks Ash. You've certainly grown from the last time I saw you," Dia complimented, holding out his hand. "If I'm ever able to come back, let's have another battle."

"I'm looking forward to it," Ash said, shaking Dia's hand happily.

"Zer Zeraora," Zeraora grunted.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu squeaked.

Xxx Island Champion's Return xxX

"Ash, now that you won the Indigo League, what's your plan now?" Kiawe asked. The awards ceremony went off without any issues. Now, the group was heading back to the cabin to pack up before they would head back home to Alola.

"I think I'm going to take a break," Ash said thoughtfully. "I've missed everyone back in Alola, and I want to catch up with them. I also want to spend some time with all my Pokemon and train them."

"What about the Elite Four? Can't you challenge it now that you won the league?" Mallow asked.

"I could, but I'm not going to do so," Ash said, petting Pikachu.

"But you won the league! Isn't it the entire point of competing in the league?" Sophocles asked, waving his arms.

"For one thing, I battled with Agitha of the Elite Four. We put up a fight, but she is still a league above us," Ash said, getting a nod from Lana and Pikachu.

"I'm glad you're not letting a loss against Agitha get you down," Kukui started, pressing a hand on Ash's head. "But what other reasons do you have."

"I'm trying to decide where I'm going next. I don't know if I want to travel to another region like Hoenn or I could try the Kanto Battle Frontier," Ash pondered.

"There's something else bothering you, isn't it?" Burnet asked gently.

"I've been thinking about the Alola League and the qualifiers. Getting all the badges to be allowed to compete in the Indigo League was a great challenge, and I feel like I learned a lot while I traveled through Kanto. If we did something similar in Alola, it would be a great way to teach any challengers about Alola," Ash said.

"That sounds like a great idea," Kukui proudly stated. "But I think that we can wait until we get back home before we discuss this. We should probably talk to the Kahunas, as well."

"Yeah, let's go home!" Ash cheered, running ahead.

"Uh, Ash…" Mallow started. Kukui and Burnet looked at each other amused, while Lana and Lillie held in giggles. A few seconds later, Ash ran back.

"How are we getting to Alola?" Ash asked. Kiawe and Sophocles face faulted.

"Seriously, Ash!" Kiawe asked. "We're taking Lillie's family's plane. We talked about it last night."

"Excuse me!" Ash said indignantly. "I've had a lot of stress these past few days. Is it really that surprising I forgot something?"

"Speaking of surprises, Ash, we have something to tell you," Burnet said.

"What is it, Mama Burnet?" Ash asked.

"Well, you're going to be a big brother," Burnet said.

"That's great!" Ash said. A few moments later…

"WAIT, WHAT!" Everyone yelled.

Chapter End

So I started writing this in July, but life just kept getting in the way from getting a concussion to falling behind in schoolwork. I've had to write so many papers these past few months. Then there were several events in the anime that I didn't see coming. The fight with Guzzlord or the Masked Royal being revealed being prime examples, so I sort of rewrote the story in response. Guzzlord never attacked after the finals, but Kukui revealed himself to Ash, Burnet, and the others. Mainly because I really didn't like that episode because it severely nerfed the actual danger that Guzzlord represents. In this story, Ash was a lot more affected by Guzzlord since this is one of the first real instances of danger Ash faced on his journey. By the way, I really wanted Dia to come back for a fight as you can tell. I chose his pokemon based solely on the Pokemon the other Ultra Rangers from Dia's episode. I did not really realize what I was getting myself into until I started writing it, but it was fun.

Ok, some other thing to go over to clear things up. Delia and Abe got married so Mallow and Ash are step-siblings. Ash won the Alola league after the second year he was in Alola so he is the Alola Champion. I chose both Lana and Lillie because I literally could not decide who would be a better pairing. I like them both equally. Both Lana and Lillie have a lot of moments that actually point towards a relationship actually working. Lana and Ash have a great dynamic while that final scene with Ash and Lillie almost made it purely Aureliashipping. Eventually, I decided to just go with both because I couldn't decide. I also realize that I didn't really focus on Ash's relationship with Lillie and Lana but that's because it's not the focus on this story. Ash's league battles are the main focus of this story so I was always going to focus on that.

It's why I planned to end the story right after Ash's battle with Dia. I literally decided who would win with a dice role. And truthfully speaking, if it were just Zeraora vs. Pikachu, Zeraora would win. For me, Zeraora (and only Zeraora, for Dia's Pokemon) is a Champion Level Pokemon, while Pikachu and most of Ash's Alola Pokemon (in this story) are just barely at Elite Level. If Ash were to fight an Elite Four member, he would be able to stand up to several of their Pokemon, but he would ultimately lose by a fair margin. Heck, the only reason that Incineroar was as effective against Zeraora was because Incineroar is a grappler and Zeraora has a primarily physical close combat moveset. It's why Ash is still traveling despite being the Alola Champion. He is getting stronger so he can actually represent his league at the same level as the rest of the Champions. Do I think that Zeraora could defeat Tapu Koko? No, but it would put up one hfil of a fight.

I wrote this story with the idea that I would be making a series of one shots built off of this world, so I'm saying this now, if this gets enough positive feedback, I want to try to do a few other leagues and some of the movies. I won't be doing all of these things because I don't think I can write unique enough stories for every league battle or movie so if you want me to write something, give me a specific event and a reason or idea for it. If I get enough people asking for something or I like an idea enough, I will probably get to writing it and will have it done (in 2021 because I'm me. What are you gonna do?). I'm probably going to do a bonus chapter where I explore how Ash is setting up the Alola League. I'd love to make the Island Trials the equivalent to the gyms, but there are several reasons why this would not work like people want it to, so I can't justify using them as the qualifier for the League.

Though I will say this, I'm not really planning on making any grand battle with an evil team. Ash isn't an Aura Guardian (yet, it may happen. I don't know if it will though), Psychic, or gifted with some extraordinary ability. He's just a great trainer who is also a great person who is going on a journey and I want to focus on his journey. A lot of people try to make the journey some sort of dangerous and serious adventure where Ash and friends are fighting for their lives every other chapter, but well I find that kills the enjoyment of the story. It makes everything so serious such the characters themselves aren't enjoying their Pokemon Journey. While it's fine for the characters to be serious at some points, having a little humor prevents the story from becoming stale. It's why I like Sun and Moon so much. Tone matters a lot for me.

I hope you enjoy my story. If you liked it, tell me what you liked and what you didn't. If you dislike it, do the same. I'm trying to focus on making an enjoyable fun story that can be read alone for the fun of a story and I wanted to know if I accomplished this. Did I make you laugh? Did you find any flaws with the story? Is there a way I could have improved my battle scenes because they are really f***ing hard to write? I'm telling you, with the greater emphasis on the battle scenes in this story, I have a far greater respect for the people behind the anime despite some of the flaws in it. Those people have to plan out character interactions for dozens of characters, fight scenes, then they have to animate their plans along with working with all the VAs to have quality work. And they have done it for over a hundred episodes for each region, and who knows what else they have to do.

So as I wrap this up, I want to say this, let's start a conversation about this, so just saying that I'm wrong or I'm great doesn't work for me. I enjoy actually talking to the people who read my story. It's fun to talk to the people that read my stories. So please don't be afraid to PM (though I don't get the notifications for any PMs for some reason lately, so it can take a while for me to respond) because I genuinely enjoy talking about what people liked and didn't like about the story, and it may somehow give me inspiration for a new story. That is all I have to say. Don't forget to share your thoughts as a review. And hey, I finally finished a story.