Holy moly! So many follows and favorites after the last update! You got me thinking what I had written in that particular chapter and reread it myself! Hope you liked Ash's and Cynthia's flashback and would you like more? Tell me in reviews!

UltimateCCC: As shown before, Ash can make Pokémon be at ease with him. Besides, the foot of the bed looked pretty comfortable for our snake. ;)

Hitgirl555: Thanks for the appreciation!

Vince Basile Jr: Let's worry about it later and focus on other aspects. Kay?

Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon. Ain't that lucky folks.

Xxx

Battle Against Atrocity!

"So Snivy…" Ash said after releasing the grass type from her pokéball. The Unova Starter fixed him with a leveled glare, arms crossed. "Bill said you had tons of potential. Want to showcase it in my fight against Misty?"

Snivy considered it. She knew what a trainer battle was and what role a trainer played. She would enjoy battling against a formidable foe but… could she trust Ash?

A trainer had to watch and guide its Pokémon through all sorts of hazards. They were like the extra eyes of a Pokémon, one which covered its weaknesses and what they couldn't spot. To work with maximum result, both had to trust the other completely with no doubt.

She didn't trust anyone. She could fight alone just fine. Snivy knew she could defeat his overgrown water horse alone without much trouble. Her Overgrow would help as well.

Ash, sensing her inner dilemma, added. "I know you don't trust me at all Snivy. I won't be guiding you in the battle. You can fight on your own accord. I'll only intervene when necessary. How does that sound?"

Snivy considered it. That was perfectly fine with her. Snivy nodded. Ash smiled. "I'm going to scan you to find out more about your species. Ok?" Snivy nodded.

Ash whipped out his pokedex and aimed it at the starter. "Snivy the Grass Snake Pokémon. Cool, calm, and collected, Snivy use photosynthesis to collect energy with the leaf on its tail. This Snivy is Female and has the ability Overgrow. It knows the following moves: Vine Whip, Leer, Leaf Storm, Slam, Swords Dance, and Leaf Blade. Egg Move is Grassy Terrain."

Ash considered Snivy's move set. All of its moves were grass types except Slam and she had no way for defense. Purely offensive oriented. Though Ash could teach her ways for coverage, he doubted Snivy would have mastered them in time for the Cerulean Gym Battle.

"You've got a nice move pool." Ash complimented. "Let's have a few test battles before the gym battle so I can get a feel of your style. Kay?" Snivy shrugged. She didn't care.

Ash spotted Cynthia training with Buizel a little distance away and waved at her. They were at the training fields behind the Pokémon Center. Perfect place for battles.

"What's up?" The blonde questioned.

"Want to have a battle?" Ash responded. Cynthia looked at Buizel who nodded eagerly. Snivy rolled her eyes at his eagerness for a fight and chalked it up to him being a male.

"Let's take our positions." The duo went to separate training boxes and settled inside. Their Pokémon all stood at the side to see the battle unfold.

"Fight on your own pace." Ash murmured to Snivy. "I'll intervene only when necessary. Okay?" Snivy gave a slight nod to acknowledge him. Buizel did a few punching motions as warm-up and gave a challenging cry to Snivy. Snivy didn't respond other than a disappointed look. She won't even have to use Overgrow to beat this vile, excuse of a Pokémon into oblivion!

"Buizel! Use Ice Beam!" Cynthia began. Buizel inhaled and then fired the arcing three way beam. Snivy elegantly jumped out of the way, spinning in the air with her hands out like blades. "Aqua Jet!"

Buizel didn't hesitate. Bursting forwards, it flew towards the airborne Snivy. The Grass Snake spun and slammed her tail into his jet, resulting in a stalemate.

The two struggled before breaking apart. "Ice Beam again!" Cynthia ordered. Buizel fired it off before even landing, catching Snivy in mid-air.

The Grass Snake, caught off guard, was unable to defend. The Ice Beam struck her on the chest and sent her tumbling down. Recovering quickly, Snivy darted to the side, dodging an Aqua Jet.

Her eyes narrowed and she unleashed a hurricane of leaves. "Aqua Jet out of the way!" Cynthia ordered. Buizel quickly obeyed and managed to avoid the myriad of sharp leaves.

Snivy quickly used Swords Dance to negate the downside of Leaf Storm and used Vine Whip. Buizel easily dodged the vines and fired back a Sonic Boom.

Snivy jumped again, letting it strike below her, and used another Leaf Storm. "Ice Beam into Aqua Jet!" Cynthia hollered. Buizel fired the arcing beam, meeting the Leaf Storm in half, and froze the majority of them. Then, enveloping himself in water flew straight into the frozen leaves.

Slamming and breaking through them, it reached Snivy on the other side. Snivy had a surprise ready for him though. Her Leaf Blade slammed into Buizel's back and sent him pummeling into the ground.

She then spun for another Leaf Blade. Buizel snarled, rolling out of the way, and fired an Ice Beam just as Snivy slammed into his previous position. Snivy gasped in pain and was unable to dodge the follow-up Aqua Jet.

"Water Gun!" Cynthia carried on her momentum. Snivy was sent skidding down and was blasted further by Water Gun. She rolled to a stop, breathing heavily.

Buizel was ready for another Ice Beam when Ash yelled "Stop!" Buizel stopped and Cynthia called him back to her side. Ash ran over to Snivy, wincing at the ice coating her. Buizel's Ice Beams were no joke.

"Are you okay?" Ash questioned the Grass Snake Pokémon. Snivy didn't reply, trying to get up. Ash scooped her up in his arms, frowning when the Grass Snake went almost limp.

Surely Buizel didn't hurt her that bad.

Cynthia walked over to him and winced at Snivy's condition. "Guess we overdid it."

"Something else is wrong." Ash replied. "Besides being underweight, Bill didn't mention anything else. Then why is Snivy so weak?"

"What do you mean?" Cynthia asked confused.

"I suspect something's wrong." He gestured to the Pokémon center. "Let's give her to Nurse Joy. She'll heal her and check up on her too." Cynthia nodded and called Buizel over too.

He did take a nasty Leaf Blade.

Xxx

Nurse Joy, after giving Snivy a look over, asked for her medical file. Ash was surprised at the name. He didn't know Pokémon had one. The Nurse told him that Pokémon who got recovered from abusive places had a medical history.

After giving Nurse Joy the file he obtained from Bill and letting her study it, Ash was giving the answer. "Mentally, Snivy is fine other than trust issues. She doesn't trust anyone at all. But the problem lies physically. She suffers from fatigue and being underweight doesn't help either."

"She needs a rich diet. And exercise daily is advised to let her get used to movement." Seeing their worried looks, she smiled. "It's nothing to worry about. About a month of well care will set her up just fine. For extra care, you can offer her massages and spend some more bonding time with her alone."

"I doubt she'll even let me get close to her." Ash commented wryly. "But I'll try. Thanks a lot Nurse Joy."

"My pleasure." She smiled back. "She's resting in her pokéball currently." Nurse Joy handed Snivy's Luxury Ball back to Ash. Ash grabbed it and nodded.

Taking their leave, the duo walked out of the Pokémon Center. "What's the plan now?" Cynthia asked.

"I'm going to challenge Misty. I'll go with Oceanus, Zeus, and Eevee." Ash responded. "I think I got enough practice at Route 24 and 25."

"Let's go after grabbing some lunch then."

"Sounds like a plan."

Xxx

Turns out the Sensational Sisters had a show today. Our duo realized, with some disappointment, that they would have to wait for their gym battle. On the plus side, they were going to see the show.

"Excited?" Ash questioned. Cynthia shrugged.

"I'm not that interested in these things to be honest." The blonde admitted. "I just want to give it a try. See what's so special in these things."

The two found their seats easily and sat down. They were a bit early and so, had ample time. Chit chatting to cross the time, it wasn't long before people began to fill in.

The duo was surprised at the various ages. From little kids to aged adults, everyone was present. Most of them seemed to be from Cerulean City judging by the Native Pokémon besides them. Though some seemed to be from far.

Ash had his Eevee and Snivy out. It was written on the "Rules & Regulations" that you could have one Pokémon out if they were tiny enough. Ash had three Pokémon that matched the size requirement and called out Eevee and Snivy out.

Cynthia told him that Fenniken had enough of water for a while and Roselia was sleeping in her pokéball. Buizel didn't like such shows and Nidoran was too aggressive due to his nearing evolution.

So Ash decided to bring out Eevee for her and Snivy for him, figuring it'll give them some time to bond. What he didn't know for certain were would Snivy enjoy the show? Only time would tell.

"Ladies and Gentlemen!" The host called in the mic. Everyone had their attention on her. "Introducing…. The Sensational Sisters!" She hollered. The entire crowd roared in response.

Ash and co winced at the loud yell. Snivy snarled in irritation but Eevee managed to calm her down somewhat. The three sisters jumped from a high platform into the water gracefully, water splashing at their landing.

They began to swim in beautiful formations; a huge smile plastered on their faces, as Water Pokémon began joined them in perfect sync. The show lasted for about twenty minutes and boy were they entertained.

Our double duo was mesmerized the entire time. Even Snivy, who wasn't showing much interest in the beginning, was beginning to show a little awe at the flawlessness they displayed. The remaining three were, naturally, bowled over.

After the show ended, which consisted of various types of moves and combinations thrown together for beauty, interesting extra effects, elegant movements, and the beauty of the Sensational Sisters, the crowd gave them a standing ovation.

"Enjoyed?" Ash asked Snivy. The Grass Type snorted at his question. Hell would she ever admit she enjoyed! The four walked out of the arena after that into the gym lobby.

"That was fun and all but time for my gym battle." Ash commented, stretching.

"Finally catching up Ashy-boy." Ash froze at the arrogant tone. Only one person called him that.

"Gary?!" Ash turned around and saw the spiky brown haired individual walking towards him cockily.

"Sup." He greeted them. "How's it going Ashy-boy, and Blondie?" He smirked when Cynthia's eyebrow twitched.

"Don't call me that." She responded in a leveled tone. Ash chuckled amusedly at her reaction.

"Thing have been fine Gary." Ash replied for both of them. "Pretty smooth, actually."

"You got the Cascade Badge?"

"Only I have it. Ash is about to get it." Cynthia informed. Gary whistled.

"I just got it. Wartotle creamed her Goldeen." Gary boasted.

"So you got a Squirtle for your starter." Ash nodded.

"What did you get?"

"Eevee right here."

"Fenniken." Cynthia said, showing Gary her pokéball. Their childhood friend whistled.

"Both rare Pokémon indeed." They decided to hide the fact that Ash also had a Snivy and Seadra and Cynthia had a Roselia and Buizel.

Good thing Ash had returned Snivy or Gary would've been on the end of Vine Whips.

"You signed up for the Gym Battle?" Misty interrupted. The trio focused on the gym leader.

"Remember me?" Ash waved. Misty thought for a few moments before responding,

"Nope." She gave a curt look to him. "Come; let's have your Gym Battle." She sauntered off, leaving a surprised Ash behind.

"Someone's pissed off." He commented.

"She's just mad I destroyed her team." Gary boasted. "Hey. Can I see your Gym Battle?"

"Sure. Knock yourself out." Ash answered. He then walked after Misty, his friends following him.

They reached the battlefield and Ash entered into his position. In front of him, Misty had an Ultra Ball clenched in her hand. That surprised Ash. Ultra Balls were used for Pokémon who were too strong to catch with ordinary balls.

He briefly wondered if Misty had a pseudo-legendary with her in that ball and shuddered.

"This one is going to be a special battle!" Misty hollered. "I'll use one Pokémon while you can use three. The battle will be over when one side is out of usable Pokémon. You can substitute! If you win, you get the badge alongside a TM. Agreed?"

Ash considered the rules. If Misty did have a strong Pokémon in that Ultra Ball, then he could use the handicap. The prospect of a TM didn't hurt either.

TM was short for Technical Machines. They were disc like packets which contained the information for a particular move. Pokémon on the receiving end of a TM got the move down instantly most of the time. It was the time taken to master it that required training.

"Done."

"We choose Pokémon together." Ash nodded again and clenched Skylar's pokéball. He needed to get a feel for the Pokémon inside the Ultra Ball. Skylar was perfect for it. She could fly, negating the Water Field disadvantage, her speed was pretty fast, and she packed a punch.

"Let's go then!" Misty tossed the Ultra Ball. Ash threw his pokéball at too. Both opened and energy pooled out of each. Skylar came out, taking to the skies instantly. In front of her, the golden energy from the Ultra Ball formed into a serpentine form.

It finished materializing to show…

"A Gyarados!?" Ash yelled in alarm. The opponent roared intimidatingly at Skylar, the bird quickly backing from her. Misty gave Ash a cruel grin.

"Good luck beating her." She mumbled. In the stands, Cynthia and Gary were both astonished shitless.

"Ash has to defeat that?" Cynthia questioned in fear. Gary nodded grimly.

"Seems like it." The duo fixed their eyes on Ash who was eyeing the Atrocious Pokémon with an analytic look.

'I have to deliver some solid hits with Skylar.' Ash thought. 'Or rather, Skylar can draw out his moves. Then Zeus can move in and hopefully paralyze him. Then it's up to Oceanus and Skylar.'

Ash nodded at the plan. "Finished daydreaming?" Misty asked from her side. Ash nodded expression neutral. "You have the first move. Enjoy." While Ash did frown at her arrogant tone, he didn't let it mess with him.

"Quick Attack!" Skylar squawked and blurred into motion. She slammed into Gyarados, moving away before he could hit her back. "Keep it up!" Skylar didn't respond other than moving and ramming into Gyarados.

Gyarados growled in irritation at the tan blur. Misty whistled and he dove into the water. Skylar quickly took to the roof, keeping a sharp eye on the water.

"Double Team. Quick Attack and Steel Wing." Ash ordered. Skylar blurred again, copies splitting off her and joining her in the air.

"Aqua Twister Gyarados." Misty ordered simply. Gyarados roared in agreement and the water swirled into a tornado. The draconic energy, having more solid material to use, turned into a deadly watery twister.

"Draw back." Skylar obliged and placed some distance between her and the Twister. Ash tried to find out what Misty was trying to do and ran some calculations.

A minute passed as the Twister kept raging on. All the while Ash was trying to figure out what Misty was aiming for. Growing impatient, he ordered an offense.

"Quick Attack into Steel Wing!" Ash ordered. Skylar, also growing tired of the wait, dove towards the water tornado. Misty smirked.

"Aqua Tail!" From the Twister came the strike. Skylar squawked in surprise as her Steel Wing was parried and overpowered by a muscular water enveloped tail.

"Straighten up!" Ash ordered. Skylar quickly composed herself and flew higher, eyeing the Aqua Twister warily. 'Okay. So the Aqua Twister is a very nice offense as well as defense. Skylar cannot break through it that easily. But there must be a weak point…'

"What is Misty aiming for?" Cynthia murmured, her hair swaying due to the Aqua Twister.

"Who knows?" Gary shrugged. "Ash better be careful though."

"Quick Attack Skylar." Ash ordered. "Don't stay in one place. Keep moving!" Skylar squawked and burst into speed. Misty watched Ash's attempts with a disappointed look.

"Rain Dance. Then Thunder." Ash's eyes widened in shock. Within the tornado, Gyarados danced and rain clouds formed above them. Then, thunder cracked and a bolt of lightning went sailing towards Skylar.

"Steel Wing! Block it!" Ash hollered desperately. Skylar quickly steeled both of her wings and held them in front of the Thunder. It struck and Skylar was illuminated with lightning. Her Steel Wing defended to the best of its ability before faltering.

Skylar shrieked as the remaining bolt hit her. Thankfully, the bolt had lost most of its power by then. The Pidgeotto gathered her breathe and burst into speed again.

"That was a nice save." Cynthia sighed in relief.

"Yeah." Gary mumbled. "Misty has more surprises in her hand though. I'm sure." Ash clenched Skylar's pokéball.

"Skylar return!" Ash hollered, calling her back. "Rest up girl. I'll need you sooner or later." Pocketing her pokéball, Ash pulled out another one. "You may be clever Misty but I ain't losing this one!" Ash tossed the pokéball. Zeus came out, cheeks sparking at Gyarados.

"Trying to capitalize on the Rain Dance huh." Misty chuckled. "Good luck with that." Gyarados roared and suddenly, the Rain Dance dispersed.

"Gr." Ash growled, his advantage thrown away. "Zeus, use Quick Attack!" Zeus burst into speed, moving from one platform to another at high speeds.

"You just love Quick Attack don't you?" Misty smiled. Her smiled turned into an aggressive look. "Aqua Twister! Let it rip!" There was a roar and Gyarados whipped the Aqua Twister towards Zeus.

"Nasty Plot twice into Thunderbolt!" Ash countered. Zeus sparked his cheeks, boosting his energy, and let rip a large lance of electricity. The Aqua Twister and the Thunderbolt met, dispersing the other easily.

"Crunch!" Gyarados burst from behind Zeus, jaw wide open. Zeus squealed in surprise.

"Iron Tail!" Ash clenched his fist. Zeus's tail steeled itself and he swung it at the Crunch. Gyarados bit down on the steely appendage, breaking through the Iron Tail despite the type match up. "Now Thunder Wave!"

"Back!" Misty ordered sharply. Gyarados was too slow. Zeus let loose the paralyzing energy and caught Gyarados just as he was rearing back.

"Thunderbolt again!" Ash ordered. Zeus let rip the blast, catching Gyarados by surprise. Misty bit her lip as the boosted Thunderbolt delivered a potent zap to her serpent.

"Flamethrower!" She growled. The stream of hot flames raced towards Zeus, forcing the Thunderbolt back.

"Into the water." Ash ordered, knowing Zeus couldn't overpower the Flamethrower. Zeus quickly stepped back and dropped into the water. The Flamethrower hit the platform and the water around it, evaporating water and making some mist. "Nasty Plot into Thunderbolt again!"

Zeus let loose another Thunderbolt straight into the water. Gyarados roared in pain as the whole pool was electrified. Ash grinned at Misty's expression.

"Don't let up!" Ash ordered. Gyarados was given a brief respite before the shock began again.

"Aqua Twister! Churn the water up!" Misty commanded. Gyarados roared and the water was swirled again into a Twister. Zeus, visible due to the electricity arcing off him, was caught into the Twister.

"Nasty Plot again into Charge! Boost as much as you could!" Ash ordered. He needed to deal as much damage as he could to Gyarados before Zeus fainted. The Pikachu, while thrashing around in the Twister, managed.

"Finish him with Aqua Tail!" Misty barked. "Finish this!" Gyarados growled and swung his tail at the trapped mouse.

"Iron Tail! Climb in the air!" Ash ordered. Zeus understood his command and steeled his tail. Swinging it down with little force, he let it withstand the blow of the Aqua Tail. Zeus was sent flying out of the tornado into the air.

"Flamethrower! End this!" Misty ordered, desperate to finish the Electric Mouse before he could wreck her serpent anymore. Gyarados roared and tried to unleash fire.

Unfortunately for him, paralysis kicked in.

Fortunately for Ash, this was the opening he needed.

"Volt Tackle!" Ash swung his arm in a dropping meteor motion. Zeus let out a battle cry as he reached the apex of his flight. Dropping down, a coating of powerful electricity surrounded him.

"Move!" Misty cried out desperately. Gyarados tried to but the paralysis didn't allow him. Zeus plowed into his forehead, unleashing all of his charge into him.

The resulting explosion almost blew Ash and Misty off their feet. Gary whistled at the power Zeus packed while Cynthia grinned. Misty stared at Gyarados with a stunned look while Ash searched for his mouse.

Gyarados wasn't moving for a few seconds before groaning and getting up. Misty sighed in relief as her Pokémon got up, breathing heavily. Zeus, meanwhile, was trying to climb on a platform, completely tired and out of juice. Gyarados got up, glaring at the Electric Mouse.

"Aqua Tail Gyarados. Finish him." Gyarados raised his tail and delivered a powerful hit, sending Zeus flying away. It landed on a platform, unconscious.

Ash returned his Electric Mouse, praising his valiant effort. Gyarados moved back to Misty, glaring at Ash. Said trainer overlooked the dragon. All those Thunderbolt and Volt Tackle must've dealt some serious damage.

Keeping that in mind, Ash released Skylar. The avian took to the skies, glaring at Gyarados with determination. "Stay careful Skylar. He has already defeated Zeus." She nodded.

"In the water Gyarados." Misty commented. Gyarados dove into the water, moving fast. Ash considered what move to make. It was evident Gyarados was tired and hurt from Zeus's shocks. Misty must be playing defensive by now.

"Quick Attack." Ash opened up. Skylar began to zoom around the battlefield, conserving stamina.

"Twister." Ash growled at the strategy. Gyarados roared and formed the familiar draconic tornado. Skylar quickly formed some distance between her and the Twister.

"Hydro Pump." Gyarados unleashed the large stream of water towards Skylar who easily dodged it. Ash scoffed at the aim. Dustox was way harder to dodge.

"Skylar, charge up." Ash ordered. Skylar moved higher in the air, slowing down and concentrating. Misty looked at him and the avian closely.

Suddenly, the Twister faltered. Ash grinned as Gyarados suffered from paralysis and the Twister lost most of its ferocity.

"What's Ash trying now?" Gary questioned.

"Something similar to Zeus's Volt Tackle I think." Cynthia replied. "This Twister strategy is getting pretty old. Misty should try something new by now."

Skylar shrieked at Ash to signify she was ready. By now, Gyarados had composed himself and was forming its Twister back up. "Misty, time to put an end to this."

Skylar began to glow like an angel, white flames forming around her. She fixed Gyarados with a sharp eye, and began her descent.

"Hydro Pump Gyarados! Push her back!" Misty ordered, not replying to the taunts. Gyarados roared and unleashed his powerful stream. It raced towards the incoming Skylar.

"Skylar. Sky Attack." The Pidgeotto shrieked and cut through the Hydro Pump with mild difficulty, meeting Gyarados on the other end and slamming into him with all of her might.

The ensuing explosion was enough to make the psychic barriers flare up. The Titan of Water gave one final groan before falling down. Skylar, talons buried in his neck, shrieked victoriously.

"Gyarados…" Misty whispered. Skylar gave a triumphant shriek, looking at Ash with pride, chest puffed out. Ash gave her a nod and a bright smile.

She tiredly flew back to Ash, landing on his shoulder and nipping at his ear. Ash chuckled and stroked her crest, uttering praises. Misty recalled her Atrocious Pokémon, staring at the Ultra Ball with shock.

"Epic delivery of the Sky Attack Skylar." Ash praised. "But we need to cut the charging time and effort to use it. You can barely stand right now." It was true. The Pidgeotto was tired beyond belief. Ash returned her to her pokéball to rest.

"You're even better than Cynthia." Misty spoke suddenly. Ash saw the carrot head looking at him with interest. "Come back after you have more badges and experience. I won't turn down a real fight." She gave Ash a smirk and handed him his Cascade Badge.

Sauntering off, she was stopped by Ash. "Where's my TM?" Misty gave him a sly look and gestured to his pocket. Ash reached into it and found, to his surprise, a bright blue TM.

"Be more alert." She gave a laugh and walked off. Ash shrugged at her strange behavior and turned around to join his friends.

He needed to cool off now. The battle was over.

Xxx

"That was one explosive battle Ash." Gary praised. "Why don't we have a Two-on-two battle? You have five Pokémon, right? And you can fight with two."

"You want me to fight right after my Gym Battle?" Ash asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Yup."

"Sounds legit." Cynthia shook her head at their attitude.

"Boys." She rolled her eyes. "Let's have lunch first. Then you can have your fight."

The trio entered the Pokémon Center, going straight to Nurse Joy. Handing her Skylar and Zeus's pokéball, they made way straight to the Pokémon Center's cafeteria.

Sitting down after grabbing their share of food, the trio began to chat. "How was my gym battle?" Ash questioned the two.

"It was nice." Cynthia admitted. "Gyarados was a tough opponent to take down but you managed. Congo on that."

"You were pretty hasty." Gary commented. "You had a strategy but most of the time you wanted Gyarados to just faint. Like with your Pikachu's Volt Tackle and Pidgeotto's Sky Attack. You should've considered their level and the exhaustion of using those moves too."

"The recoil of Volt Tackle is pretty high at the moment." Ash admitted. "Plus, the voltage required cannot be produced at a moment's notice. Zeus had to charge up a lot to even use it so obviously he will get tired."

"How does your Pikachu know Volt Tackle and Pidgeotto Sky Attack?" Gary asked curiously. "I know for a fact those are tough moves to learn and use. Only experienced Pokémon use them. Then how can they use it too?"

"They had them as Egg Moves." Ash answered. "That was the first time I let them use such moves in battles. They're pretty exhausting."

"True." The three way conversation continued on and on in idle chatter, their lunch long devoured but the chatting not slowing down at all.

"How many Pokémon do you have?" Gary questioned.

"Five." Ash responded.

"Four." Cynthia answered. Gary stared at them with a nod.

"I have ten by now." He grinned at their flabbergasted looks. "I'm capturing every Pokémon I find on the way. One per species. Will train them later on."

"And you have two badges, right?" Ash questioned. Gary nodded. "What types?"

"I have Water, Normal, Rock, Ground, Poison etc." Gary listed. "Most of the basic types found normally. No rare Pokémon as of yet though." He got up, stretching. "As much as I would like to continue this idle chit chat of ours and battle later, I want to sleep."

"This soon?" Ash asked questioningly.

"The latest Pokémon I've captured is giving me one hell of a time." He replied. "Don't know what's wrong with him." He waved at the duo. "Besides, we have chatted for a long time. Goodbye dudes."

"Bye." Once he had left, Cynthia faced Ash. "What's the plan?" Ash shrugged.

"We're leaving tomorrow for Rock Tunnel." Ash responded. "So might as well stock up and rest." The blonde nodded and got up.

"I'm going to go stock up on supplies. Want to come along?" She asked. Ash nodded and got up as well. He had nothing better to do anyway. The duo made their way out of the Pokémon center, grabbing Zeus and Skylar's pokéball on the way, and made way to the mart.

"Let's get some Dusk Balls." Cynthia suggested. "We're almost out of normal pokéballs too."

"The Dusk Balls will be useful in Rock Tunnel, right?" The blonde nodded. "So far we have three Net Balls from Viridian and a few normal pokéballs."

"Rock Tunnel has a load of Pokémon, ranging from Zubat to Sandshrew. I'm personally looking forward to capture the latter." Cynthia informed him.

"They say Aron are found in rarity inside too." Ash said, remembering reading about the evolutionary line. "In the deeper levels. Might as well try to get one."

"The Pokémon in the deeper levels are pretty strong though." Cynthia stated.

"So are we." Ash grinned. "Buizel and Oceanus alone can handle any Rock or Ground Type. Zeus for the Zubat."

"True." The duo reached the mart and entered inside. "We'll like a few repels, potions, and pokéballs please." The lady inside smiled.

"Sure. How much?" She questioned.

"About six?" Cynthia looked at Ash who nodded. "Six repels about two dozen potions, a dozen pokéballs, and six Dusk Balls." The lady was a bit surprised at the large order.

"Are you two planning to stay in Mt Moon or in the wild?" She questioned.

"Kind of." Ash said sheepishly. The lady told one of the employees to fetch the items.

"That'll be about…" She handed them the receipt. The duo was shocked at the amount. Evenly dividing the money amongst themselves, they handed the amount to the lady.

The employee returned after a little while and handed them their supplies. Taking their leaves, the duo walked out towards the Pokémon Center.

"Why do we spend so much at a Pokémon mart anyway?" Ash questioned. Cynthia shrugged.

"We'll need them." The two made way to their rooms and laid out the items. "Three repels one dozen potions, six pokéballs, and three Dusk Balls each." They divided the supplies and pocketed them.

"Now about our food." They stood up.

"Can you get it?" Ash questioned Cynthia. "I need to work a little on Snivy's exercise and bond with her a little."

"Sure." Ash handed Cynthia his portion of money and accompanied her to the exit. They split up there, one going towards the city, the other going towards the training fields.

Ash grabbed his lone Luxury Ball and tossed it, revealing his Unovan Grass Type. "Hey Snivy." Ash greeted, crouching to her eye level. "Earlier today, you collapsed mid fight."

Snivy lowered her eyes at the memory. "Don't worry girl." Ash assured her. "I won't let it happen again." Snivy looked at him questioningly. "But for that to happen, you have to trust me."

Snivy looked away almost immediately at that. Hell would she trust anyone! Ash sighed at her reaction. "The doctor said you're underweight." Snivy paused in her thoughts. "The only way to recover is to eat more and eat well. And work on exercises daily."

"All I want is for you to be strong Snivy." Ash continued. "Bill said that you didn't eat a thing out of his hand without him proving it wasn't to harm you. We can do the same thing."

Snivy nodded. That was fair game. "Due to your underweight problem, you get tired pretty easy and can faint when strained. We can only achieve that by making you healthy. So, let's do some basic exercises. Okay?"

Snivy shook her head. She didn't want to. "Eevee will be accompanying you. How about that?" Snivy pointed to him with her Vine Whip. "You want me to exercise too?"

She nodded. If Eevee and Snivy were training, then who was to say Ash shouldn't? Ash shrugged before nodding. "Okay then." Ash took off his jacket and tossed it to a bench.

He released his starter who yipped in excitement. "First we'll be doing…"

Xxx

Ash nearly collapsed as the exercises ended. Snivy was next to him, breathing heavily but otherwise okay. Eevee was, unsurprisingly, a bit tired but still capable.

"God damn." Ash wheezed. "How do you guys have so much stamina?" Snivy knew the question wasn't directed towards her so she didn't reply. Eevee yipped amusedly.

"How're your holding up?" Ash questioned Snivy. She answered him with a nod. "Better than me that's for sure." Ash muttered jokingly. He then got up and wiped the sweat off his forehead. "Okay, the next exercise is a game of tag. No moves so it's fair."

Snivy shrugged while Eevee nodded. Ash half-heartedly touched Eevee who grinned. "Tag, you're it." The trio began the game of tag. What Ash wanted to achieve with this was simple.

1. Snivy could use the exercise. She wasn't physically fit enough to battle yet.

2. A light hearted game could open her up more to Ash and the others.

Ash decided to release all of his Pokémon. "Guys! We're playing tag! No moves! Skylar, don't climb up too much. Stay in our reach. Let's go!" The six began the game anew.

Zeus and Eevee were, naturally, at the top of the game due to their speed while Skylar was just behind. She had trouble making sharp turns and the others utilized it to the fullest.

Snivy felt more at ease playing with the others, something Ash noted with pride. The Grass Type was opening up, however small the change. It was the change that counted anyway.

"Ok." Ash panted, huffing for breathe like a dog. "I give up. You guys continue." He struggled to a bench and collapsed on it.

"Having fun I see." Ash opened one of his eyes and saw Cynthia smirking at him. The blonde sat beside him and handed him a towel.

"How long were you here?" Ash asked. Cynthia smirked.

"You were so out of place there." She commented. "All of them being fast Pokémon and then a slow human being the brunt of the game."

Ash grinned as Eevee chased after Zeus with all her speed. The Electric Mouse was almost in reach but made a sharp turn, his tail helping a lot. Eevee zipped past him and Zeus snickered mischievously.

Cynthia released her Pokémon as well, the four joining in. Well, Buizel wanted to rebel but a stern look from Cynthia made it reluctantly join in.

"Why don't you join them?" Ash asked. Cynthia gave him a joking look at that.

"Are you joking?" Ash shook his head. "It seems like one."

"I played tag with them didn't I?" Ash replied. "Why don't you?"

"Because-" They were interrupted by a bright flash of light. The duo and all the Pokémon stared at the evolving Pokémon, Cynthia's Nidoran. "About time." Cynthia smiled.

Nidoran finished evolving and roared, this time as a Nidorino. Cynthia got up to congratulate him while Ash got up to rejoin them. After a few minutes of congratulations to Nidorino and rest, Ash managed to force Cynthia into joining them.

The resulting game of tag was pretty fun.

Xxx

"Ready?" Cynthia asked Ash. The two stood at the gate of Route 9. Ash nodded.

"Always." The two stared at the long route. Already having informed their parents about their plan to stay in Rock Tunnel and train for a while and expand their team, the two were raring to go.

"Next stop, the Rock Tunnel."

Xxx

And with that, another chapter is finalized! The end was a bit subpar quality, I think, so I apologize for that. The following chapters will involve more in depth character development and a few new captures so be prepared!

The next upload will take some time because of the above mentioned reasons. So please be patient.

R&R guys! It gives me a lot of motivation and I finalize chapters pretty fast that way. Until then, You're King Signing Out!

List of Pokémon:

Eevee: Quick Attack, Sand Attack, Shadow Ball. Dig. Iron Tail. Double Team, Swift, Bite. (Detect)

Zeus: Thunder Bolt, Nasty Plot, Thunder Wave, Iron Tail, Dig, Double Team, Feint, Nuzzle, Charge. (Volt Tackle)

Skylar: Tackle, Quick Attack, Gust, Sand Attack, Aerial Ace, Steel Wing, and Double Team. (Sky Attack)

Oceanus: Water Gun, Water Pulse, Tackle, Smokescreen, Agility, Bubble Beam, Whirlpool, Twister.

Snivy: Vine Whip, Leer, Leaf Storm, Slam, Swords Dance, and Leaf Blade. (Grassy Terrain)

Cynthia Pokémon:

Fenniken: Scratch, Hypnosis, Ember, Flame Burst, Quick Attack, Flame Charge, Howl, Bite. (Heat Wave).

Nidorino: Tackle, Poison Sting, Confusion, Double Kick, Fury Attack, Peck, Focus Energy.

Roselia: Mega Drain, Growth, Poison Sting, Magical Leaf, Leech Seed, Synthesis, Energy Ball.

Buizel: Water Gun, Sonic Boom, Ice Punch, Ice Beam, Vacuum Wave, Aqua Jet, Ice Fang.