A little bit of filler chapter before we proceed on to the Second PWCE Contest. We have brought back some old faces and will be doing so for every Contest now. Were fortunate enough to find time to speedily upload chapters, until who knows when our lives may get a little busier. Good news is that everything upto the end of the Sinnoh Arc, and once the Kalos arc begins we'll be including some Alolan and Galar visits, the latter being important as we yet need to insert Dynamaxing and Giga Dynamaxing in the series. We aren't gonna make this a news to Ash, but only to May.
More exciting adventures are set to unfold.
Storyline Date: 11th February.
Castelia City - where skyscrapers, financial powerhouses, cultural landmarks and gleaming new developments keep things humming in the 21st century. Its skyline is instantly recognizable and its emotional resonance undeniable. While Ash had been in the city countless times, it was May's first experience. For someone who would utilize a shuttle bus service at the airport, getting into a taxi and experiencing the Castelia City Skyline was a marvellous and indescribable experience for May. It was no secret why this city was called as "the city that never sleeps."
Being in Castelia City itself was all too surreal, like a dream come true. May was amazed as the cab drove through numerous streets, each more glamourous and colorful than previous as they got a little closer to their destination. Buildings raced each other in a quest to touch the soft blue sky and people littered the streets and sidewalks. Countless stores, restaurants, museums, galleries and more kept this mega network of streets charged and politically abuzz with people and their Pokemon brimming with boundless activity.
The color of the sidewalk and street matched with the tone of the sky. A perfectly unassuming shade to provide backdrop for the yellow taxis and traffic signals, that their taxi zoomed past like outsized toys. It was the time of typical Castelia City rush hour.
To the left, a three-floored Eatery Hotspot restaurant dangled long banners over the heads over the hordes of New York. Beside it was a massive "Emperor" cinema with traditional Unovian ticket booths like Punch and Judy shows where the only show was the ticket seller yelling, his mouth blubbering up and down like a full-grown Walrein. In downtown Castelia, their taxi strolled past endless clusters of shops covered in tinsel and Christmas lights.
Navigating the city's seemingly endless possibilities was feeling a bit overwhelming as May's anxiety of Contest was replaced with a wave of wonder as Ash pointed out facts of various attractions. Sunlight sheeted across the blue-black harbour, splitting into diamonds on the sharp edges of the waves at the Castelia pier. She couldn't breathe, couldn't think, couldn't feel as they passed through the Oceanfront Road - all she could do was stare in bewilderment at the towering buildings in the distance. It was as bittersweet as it was magical – the regret being she'd never experience being a first timer in Castelia City ever again.
The city was a city of adventure in itself. Stopping the taxi at one of the prime attractions and symbols of Unova Region, the couple experienced vertigo inducing heights on the tallest building to gain perspective on the city's unique island terrain and skyscraping architecture. Her Rotom Phone was frequently kept busy as they came across numerous new Pokemon that she had never seen before. A royal eagle that she sighted was, in her belief, a good luck sign.
Next, they hopped on one of those classic tourists oriented sightseeing boats, that gave them phenomenal views of the city's top beauties, gain insight into its unique geography and staggering architectural proportions. There too in the water ways, May got to see a school of oddly looking Luvdiscs and what seemed like distant cousins of Carvanhas.
The Central Plaza - The lungs of Castelia City and essentially one enormous communal backyard for space-starved residents of Castelia, Central Plaza was where just about everybody came to kick back, unwind, exercise, and get centered in nature. Whether you wander leisurely on foot, go for a run, or rent a bike, you're sure to appreciate the urban oasis that the park provides.
Castelia City may be the city that never sleeps, but it was also the city that never stopped eating – and that was what May had taken a liking to. The city had something for every mood and taste. While Max had repeatedly conveyed that pizza from Castelia City was one of the best, May could only agree when the overloaded cheese crust melted inside her mouth, letting some ooze out from her mouth.
A leading Unova landmark and the city's most celebrated bridge, the Skyarrow Bridge on foot has marked a Castelia rite of passage since it first debuted in 1983. Architecturally elegant, with twin arched towers and an artful web of suspension cables, the bridge not only proposed a practical means of connecting pedestrian (and vehicular) traffic between downtown Castelia and maintown, but it also presented exhilarating panoramas over both borough's skylines, as well as out over Castelia Harbour.
Finally, after some cardinal tour of the city that burnt out their excess time, they duo along with Lucario and Pikachu reached the Contest Hall in time.
Having sped leaving behind dust and bewildered faces into the lobby of the city's Pokemon Center, May panted partially leaning upon the desk where Nurse Joy stood behind, sweatdropping. Huffing up her nose, restraining the frenzy she put, and forcing a smile, May requested through her teeth, ''Good Morning Nurse Joy, could you give my Pokemon a quick check-up?''
The Coral-haired Nurse blinked twice, showing enough sympathy. "Of course, May, just hand them over and I'll have them fighting fit for the Contest!'' As instructed May placed her six Poke balls in the tray atop the counter.
"Oh dear, you are schvitzing.'' Nurse Joy cooed. ''Castelia can be a little overwhelming for first timers.''
"Yeah. But fascinating place actually,'' May drawled out, blinking at the nurse. ''Hey, wait a second,…how do you know it's my first time in Castelia City?"
"Oh, I am a big follower of the Contest Circuit,'' Joy chuckled, "And you have generated a lot of buzz since you made your big return this year! I saw your performance in the Hearthome City Contest, and just adored the show that you put on!" The Nurse then brought her lips closer to May's ears, ''But if I can spare you a little tip, there's some World Class Coordinators here that are rough rides."
"Oh thank you,'' May gushed, after she'd been recognized, "And speaking of 'coordinators that are rough rides', has any Coordinator named 'Dawn' made her registration yet?''
"Oh, if you mean Dawn, the Rising Sun of Sinnoh,'' Joy giggled, ''She checked in a while ago, and has left for the training grounds already." Her eyes chimed and widened, ''Oh that's right. She had an intuition that you would show up, so she left a message with me and said she had something to show you.''
"Oh so Dawn's here already,'' May smiled burningly, ''I can't wait to face her! It's been ages since we shared a stage.''
"Personally, May,'' Approving of the segment, the Nurse turned to cart away May's Pokeballs. ''I can't wait to see the Princess of Hoenn against the Rising Sun of Sinnoh.''
Nodding at her back, May mumbled, ''Don't you worry Nurse Joy, you don't have to wait long.''
Happy to have left her Pokemon in the Nurse's care, May turned around, passing by many such competition until her eyes felt on someone. Someone she wasn't very familiar with, but throughout her career, they had crossed paths a few times. She slowly made her steps towards the figure.
He was a tall lean man that had his back turned at May, from which jet-black hair cascaded. A green fedora covered the top of his head, while a forest green cape draped behind him.
Politely tapping on the man's shoulder, May coughed, ''Sorry to distract you, but we have met before, haven't we?''
The man responded the soft, inquisitive voice of May, and turned around to greet his speaker. One eye seemed to be covered behind the veil of his thick hair, while the exposed one had a cobalt iris in it. He was dressed like someone hundreds years back, like who wanted to be a part of the Renaissance Fair. Upon his chiffon shirt, was a green cape pinned by the team work of a red ruby gem and a blue cravat. His hands looked busy, one holding onto a golden insignia harp, curved into the shape of Mew, while the fingers of the other hand drummed its strings. The Harp in his hands sang the language of the universe, those serenades that come to the heart in quietness and are born to us as a song.
"Yes, maiden,'' the man sang, ''Across many Contests, have we crossed paths. I am the Pokemon Bard, Nando, and you are called the Princess of Hoenn, May. We met at the Sinnoh Grand Reception where you emerged victorious.''
"That's me,'' May beamed, if she could use her finger tips to widen her smile, she would. Wow, this day was turning fantastic. "I thought that I have seen you somewhere. And then I remembered, I saw you on TV. You took part in the Lily of the Valley Conference, the same year Ash participated in. Hey, you are the trainer that challenges Gyms and Contests both!''
"Flattering,'' Nando began to play a soft melody on his harp, "to make up for the unquantifiable quality, I began to forward my challenges to the strongest trainers and Coordinators all over the world. Although, to cure my curiosity, you mentioned 'Ash'?''
"Oh yeah,'' May nodded impatiently, ''He's my boyfriend! Actually, you may know him since his journeys with Dawn, however, just a year before that, he was my travelling companion in the Hoenn Region. We have started our journey again. And he's here with me!" She whipped around, eyes darting left and right, her search for her boyfriend left unsatisfied.
"I am sure he is around here somewhere,'' Nando grinned, ''He was quite impetuous in the old days. When you school your own sense of impatience you will learn one of the greatest virtues there is in waiting."
"Oh no, that's not changed,'' May mumbled, still scanning the lobby, ''Good reason to think that why's he off here.''
"Say May,'' Nando sing songed. ''You were missing from the Contests for a long time. Returning to it must have been very hard.''
"Exhilarating and terrifying at the same time,'' May yelped at the question, ''it was like it was again going to be the first Contest of my life. I was a nervous wreck in Jubilife City, but then it all came back to me and I carried the day. Of course, Ash had my back the whole time. He really helped me through some struggles and made me a better coordinator thanks to his confidence in me.''
"Passion is part of our immunisation against depression because it gives us the will to go onwards in any weather." The minstrel poeted, ''Your tenancy as a Coordinator has been remarkable. You couldst be amongst favourable to win the Contest.''
"Thanks, Nando,'' May giggled, restraining to judge his medieval accent in the times of technology, ''I hope so, but with you and Dawn here too, looks like Competition's got a tough skin.''
"I shall pray that we share our destiny on the stage once again,'' Nando wished with a soft smile, "Therefore I use this small period to wish you the best of luck." He continued, parting his free hand from the harp and holding it out towards the brunette. "
May gladly accepted the handshake, firmly gripping it as they shook on the gesture. She was un-surprised to find that Nando had both firm handshake and callous palms, and the best part was he didn't slip her any sleep-inducing powder like Harley did one time. Okay, that would be the suspicious part of her talking.
"I wish you the same, Nando,'' May replied, ridding herself from the thoughts of the cunning coordinator before they could sour her conversation with Nando. A smirk replaced her smile, as the sapphire eyed teen continued, ''If you and I have to go through one another, we will make it a battle worth remembering.''
"Indeed, maiden,'' Nando chuckled, and so did May who had to admire that even the bard's chuckles sounded so dignified. Nando replied jovially, ''Fate is a fickle mistress at times, but let it not be said that she does not partake in irony when the need arises.''
Not having a clue about the last part, May could at least deduce that it came off as a bit of challenge. Furrowing her eyes, she commented, ''We'll be rivals in a few minutes, Nando. I plan to win that Ribbon today and I am gonna be a wrecking ball!''
Nando broke into that both dignified and musical chuckle, "T'would be shame if you didn't." he replied, ''I have been eagerly awaiting the chance to test myself against a veteran trainer of your calibre for many moons now. Be my competition May, we both need flame within to become the best Coordinator.''
Now anyone who continued to talk like that would be annoying, but her acquintance, Nando managed to make his olden days speech pattern sound endearing. May had to admit, it was a real talent.
"I'll make sure not to disappoint then." Was her retort.
"Beatific!" Nando clapped his hands once, twirling his harp expertly into position, "A poem, If you please? To commemorate this upcoming possibility of our battle." The bard requested.
"Fire away." May replied, stationing her hands on her hips and eyeing him with interest.
"Destiny's games are stranger than
most games invented by man
It shant be long, till we hear the gong.
Beginneth this Contest shall, test to temp that
adept Coordinator out from where she hides.
Good luck my friend, for one it's the end.
Winner, your blade cuts the string, now tidings you bring
It awaits us, oh the Stage, ending you yield."
May snorted as the poem came to an end. "Heh." She laughed a bit, sapphire eyes alight with amusement. "That's pretty witty of you." She commented.
Nando smiled back. It was a smile that would have the fan girls in the stands screaming in glee.
Turning on his heel, Nando left May with one last parting comment. "Again, good luck to you my young friend, I will be giving this Contest everything I've got and hope to have a memorable experience battling you."
May watched him walk into the further into the Pokemon Center, perhaps where he was stationed for the Contest.
A sudden tap on her shoulder made her yelp loudly, as she squealed whipping around, finding the three familiar faces of Ash, Pikachu and Lucario.
"What gave you the goosebumps?'' Ash grunted.
"Where the hell were you guys?!'' May chided, ''I was looking all over for you!''
"Well, May. You forgot your bag in the cab,'' Ash held out her sac, lifting it for emphasis, eyes focused on the sheepish blush appearing on her nose, ''You kinda left it behind when you flew out of the cab. And it didn't really come to my attention since the driver took off after he was paid. Say thanks to Lucario's keen senses. We had to chase that cab two streets straight.''
"Here in Castelia City, if you miss a belonging, it belongs to Castelia City. Take extreme precautions.'' Lucario growled.
"Guess, that's my slipup,'' May chuckled, snatching her bag from her boyfriend.
"So, you all set up?'' Ash asked.
"Yeah, all my Pokemon are with Nurse Joy. We still have 40-45 minutes before the show gets on the road,'' May nodded. "And you just missed out one of your old friends.''
"My old friends, here in Unova?" Ash tilted his head, ''There's some real weirdos I met in this region. A lady tarzan, an unusual detective butler, a jackass photographer, a tactless Connoisseusse, an anti-dragon trainer, a female version of Barry, and a knucklehead trainer who managed to beat me out of the Unova League. Which was it?''
"I am somewhat with you on the weirdo part, but none of these descriptions match the Coordinator I just met,'' May refused, ''In fact I just ran into Nando. He's entering the Contest as well.''
"Nando?'' Ash repeated, and his face beamed upon remembering the travelling musician "Man, Nando's here! Oh this brings back so many memories. Where's he now?''
"He just left minutes ago before you showed up,'' May informed, ''Must have left to dress up.''
"Oh, this is so cool. I wanna see the look on Dawn's face when she knows Nando's here,'' Ash's face dazzled before it faded away with an inquisitive look, ''Now that Dawn's come up, I don't see her here yet.''
With Joy's message seeping into her mind, May squealed at another slip of mind, "Ash, to the training grounds, right away!''
"Now Empoleon, use Whirlpool!''
Dawn commanded, from one of the battlefields stationed throughout the Pokemon Center facilities. While she raised a hand to the air, her Pokémon reared back his head, and spat out a twister of water over his beak that quickly grew in volume, sent spinning skyward.
"Now Buneary, freeze that Whirlpool!''
Freezing rays of cyan enveloped the twister, swiftly freezing it over with Buneary's ice power. A huge, frozen sculpture with twisting waves and icicles was quite a grand sight. Mist and airborne frost even clung to its surface, highlighting its splendor. Rays of sunlight passed through the ice prism, giving off multicolored lights.
The other Coordinators watching gasped. Staring up at the structure that dwarfed them in awe.
"Alright, now Togekiss! Tri Attack!'' Dawn followed.
"Togee….'' The Jubilee Pokemon chanted, spewing forth three orbs that danced in the legacy of their elements. The cyan blue ice sphere condensed the structure further, relishing it with a blue polish, the golden crackling orb layered the ice sculpture with a sizzling yellow coat, and the final fiery orb, whose heat aided swallowed the frozen, sizzling whirlpool in a blaze, highlighted with vibrant oranges and red. Next it shattered, powdering a series of colours and flakes on the field.
"And that's a wrap!'' Dawn gleefully concluded the practice battle. "That was awesome guys. At this rate, this Contest will be a breeze.''
"Pol!''
"Chipa!''
"Bun!''
"Kiss!"
"Not if I got something to say about it,'' a feminine voice came from behind, that twerked Dawn's ears. A rivalling smile formed on the blunette's visage, as she turned around, eyes finding May and Ash approaching towards her, Lucario closely behind Ash.
"You guys finally made it,'' Dawn beamed, smirk slowly curving, ''Was beginning to think you wouldn't show up.''
"You aren't that lucky,'' May chuckled, ''Besides, someone's gotta give you some competition.''
"That's right,'' Dawn smirked, ''Or else my Ribbon today won't have a story to it.''
"Keep dreaming,'' May frowned, ''That Ribbon is mine!''
"Well, meaningless pleasantries exchanged,'' Ash huffed, shaking his head, ''As always good to see you, Dawn.''
He raised a palm up above, having Dawn jump a foot above the ground to meet it.
"Pi…" the mouse hopped off Ash's shoulders, scrabbling to greet his Sinnoh friends, only to first greeted in an unceremonious embrace by a hugely obsessed bunny.
"Navigating through this busy crowd would be pretty difficult had you not been practicing,'' Ash retreated his hand back to his pocket, ''Luckily, we just had to follow the scent of hot air.''
"Good one,'' May slapped Ash's back playfully.
"Hey! You asked me to trace Dawn's aura!''
"I'll let that one slide,'' Dawn rolled her eyes, scanning the collection of occupied marked battlefields parallel to hers.
A majority of them were taken, occupied by pairs of trainers who competed and practiced appeals, giving any onlooker quite the sneak preview of the Contest. Flames spat in attempts at coordinated, beautiful patterns, pairs of quadruped pokemon attempting to gracefully trounce one another, and flashes of lightning and ice preluding what would soon become appeals and battle round performances. The lack of flashy outfits characteristic of Unova's Super Contests made it a bit harder to tell, but the island was clearly crowded with Coordinators attempting to make a name for themselves.
"Look at all these coordinators! Looks like you guys got some serious competition." Ash grinned over at May and Dawn, resting his hands on his hips.
"We only need to worry about each other,'' Dawn boasted, "I take it you are prepared,'' Dawn inquired, the competitive spirit now settling. May was always a friend before a rival.
"Yeah, I got a star for the theme today,'' May feverously nodded her head, digging her hand inside her fanny pack. She squirreled for something for a brief second, before a tapping sound alerted everyone. From her fanny pack, a flash of light curved its way to the ground, materializing into the figure of Smeargle.
"Smear?''
"Oh you caught a Smeargle! That's so cute!'' Dawn jumped in jollity, bright blue eyes sparkling upon seeing the pup artist.
"Yep,'' May flashed her teeth, "Me and Smeargle have been training continuously for this Contest. And we'll show them all what we can do with our teamwork, won't we, Smeargle?''
"Smear! Smear!'' the pup bobbed his head, circling around his trainer before nuzzling his face against her leg.
"Here's a Pokeblock,'' May tossed a purple cube into the Normal type's mouth who caught it and chewed with merry.
"He's really something. I can say it's really gonna impress the judges.'' Dawn giggled. "It looks laid back about his debut Contest. Only a Coordinator like you can make a Pokemon like that self-assured.''
"And where's your surprise?'' May patted the Normal type's head, allowing him to go and play with the other Pokemon. "Nurse Joy said you have one for us?''
"Oh yeah,'' Dawn nodded, revealing a Pokeball that she pulled behind her back. With a grunt effort, she chucked the capsule above her head, ''Say hello, guys! Typhlosion, spotlight!''
Crimson flames unfolded from the large badger's back, fanning brilliantly in tune with the Pokemon's mighty roar. She stood on her hind legs, and after her gnarl, lowered her head to greet her old friends.
"Hey, Quilava evolved!'' Ash beamed.
The badger nuzzled her face towards Ash, brushing up against the trainer's cheek.
"Yep,'' Dawn held an index finger over towards the sky, eyes shut to explain, ''Training endlessly with many trainers at the Nimbasa Gym, Quilava's evolution was finally triggered.''
"That's really cool,'' May squealed, ''Just look at all that beef. Seems so intense.''
"Seconding that.'' Dawn chuckled, stroking the badger's fur.
"Nimbasa City,'' Ash's eyes clicked, "Imagine how strong Pachirisu must have got!''
He walked towards the group of the chattering Pokemon, kneeling down in front of Pachirisu. He patted the squirrel's head, and having a very familiar hand touching him, the electric type refrained from any hostility.
"Chi pa!''
"That's right,'' Ash's grin widened, ''I can feel it. Pachirisu seems to be very confident about this Contest."
"I consider it my luck that Elesa took a quick liking to Pachirisu and gave me a bucket load of tips,'' Dawn disclosed, ''She even helped my Pokemon learn new moves."
"New moves? That's great!'' May exclaimed, ''My Pokemon have been training non-stop as well!"
"If you both keep talking, you'll ruin the flame of the Competition,'' Ash stood up, unbuckling a capsule from his belt, ''Since we are in the Unovian air once again, I would like you to meet an old friend!''
Having the capsule swung in the air, the Pokemon residing inside it spawned on the field. The light exploded outwards, revealing to be the Mega Fire Pig Pokemon, Emboar.
"Boar!'' The wild boar exhaled flames through his nostrils, smashing both of his fists together.
"Yo! What's up Emboar!''
Smiling proudly, Ash leaned his hand on the belly of the Fire Type, questioning. "Feels good to be back in Unova, doesn't it?"
Sniffing the familiar air around, the fully evolved fire type snorted in agreement.
"Would you look at that?" Dawn smiled pleasantly, ''Seems just like yesterday when I saw Pignite at Cynthia's Undella Town house."
The stare of Typhlosion was affixed. She couldn't take her eyes off of the juggernaut. She felt a rush of newly developed feelings just looking at the Mega Fire Pig. Her face softened, and began to heat up. As she kept gazing at Emboar, space and time just became the finest point imaginable, as if time collapses into one tiny speck and explodes at light speed.
"Typh….'' Her face became dreamy as she approached the Unovian counterpart.
"Boar?'' the boar blinked, as the badger brushed her face against him. "boar? Boar! Boar!''
"Pika pika…'' the mouse huffed from below, completely tired from separating himself from the clinging rabbit. "They never stop.''
"Okay, what just happened?'' May remained blank.
"I think Typhlosion's got a crush on Emboar!" Dawn gawked. ''That's the most bizarre thing happened to us today.''
"Have we ever discussed that how many of my Pokemon become victims of your Pokemon's puppy love?'' Ash rolled his eyes, ''First goes my Venusaur, then Pikachu and now Emboar.''
"Why are you making it sound so bad?'' Dawn complained. "It's natural Pokemon will fall in love with one another.''
"Okay, just for a second look at my Pokemon here. Pikachu on my left and Emboar on my right,'' Ash pointed towards the bothered, stressed faces of his Pokemon, ''in what universe is that love back again?''
"Pika…''
"boar…''
"I better be left alone!''
Dawn was about to combat until May squeezed her shoulder and spoke in a monotonous voice.
"Speaking of 'love back again','' the brunette gestured towards one of the faces from the crowd. Dawn's eyes were directed towards a large head of chestnut hair, and gasped. "Kenny?!"
Face itching into worry, Ash whipped around slowly walking backwards towards the ladies. He wasn't gonna let the Twinleaf Coordinator turn things ugly for a second time. He slowly whispered into Dawn's face, ''I spent a good number of years studying in Unova. Just say the word and he's gone.''
"No,'' May deadpanned. "Let them talk it out like adults. We won't meddle in this.''
"Hey Ash, I am sensing a faint part of hostility in him.''
"I'm sure of that.'' Ash agreed, voice laced with disgust.
Kenny's steps slowed when he was in front of the group, face scrunched into a frown. His eyes widened considerably at the sight of Dawn. Empoleon spanned his flippers out behind, while Typhlosion's flames blazed brighter. Upon Dawn's whisper, they lowered their guard, but cynicism remained on the faces of the Pokemon.
"Kenny,'' Dawn mumbled. May's hands were wrapped around her friend.
"Kenny,'' Ash grit, ''The 'talk' we had was supposed to mean something."
Kenny didn't answer verbally, but the way Ash was defending the first friend he had made, stirred an awful feeling in Kenny that made him recoil. "Ash," he acknowledged, frowning.
"Spit it out,'' the Champion grumbled.
"I'm just here to apologize,'' Kenny held out his hands in defense. ''And I know that I deserve a chance at apology.''
"That's really not my decision to make,'' Ash stepped aside, letting Kenny face Dawn all by himself.
"Well, it's about time!'' Dawn spat. She was no longer going to treat Kenny like a child.
"I…erm…'' Kenny exhaled harshly, his body tensing as he did so. He sniffled, but tried to break his words into a systematic apology. He felt Ash's hand on his shoulder, nudging him forward. He did move forward, but only a half-hearted stumble that the shove had sent him on, in the first place. "We…" He rubbed the back of his neck. Apology was terribly hard.
"You summed up enough guts to walk to her, man.'' Ash encouraged with a smile. ''Just do it. Do it for your best friend.''
"Ash,'' May mumbled, ''perhaps we should give them the moment. We are probably making the tough guy a little nervous.''
"No, stay!'' Kenny objected, ''I kinda want to apologize to all of you. I have hurt all you guys so…''
"Kenny…?" Dawn frowned, quirking a brow. Suddenly, the ire of the past meeting came flooding back to her. Wearing the same sort of scowl that, were they still little kids, Kenny would have predicted to mean she was about to jump someone. "Spit it out, already!"
Kenny took a deep breath. The inevitable point he'd resolved to reach. With the spotlight on him, he felt paralyzed. But, really, this came down to exactly what Ash said. You have to be honest with relationships, of any kind. Ash had refused to tell her, so that he would do it. If he could just explain it, himself, to Dawn's face, surely she'd understand. Surely she'd appreciate that, and they could at least go back to being close friends. That, he wanted, more than anything.
"Dawn,'' Kenny balled his fist. ''I'm sorry for over reacting that day. I…I thought that with Ash…out of the picture…maybe…you and I…" He threw his upper body in a bow, not bothering the attention from the public he was garnering. "Dawn, I screwed everything up. This jealousy ate me up, and I ended making dumb choices. I failed to see you as my best friend, and misunderstood your friendship. I didn't mean to think of you that way….it's just that I never knew when these feelings turned into…" Tears were stinging from his eyes, but his inexhaustible pride restrained them. ''Dawn, I just…if we could start over…like those old days…me, you and Leona…''
'Kenny…" Dawn mumbled, ''Stand up. You're making a scene.''
Standing erect, Kenny continued, his stopped-up nose becoming evident, ''I'm sorry to hurt you so bad I feel like I…Whoa is that an Emboar?''
Kenny's hues shimmered with admiration as he skittered to get a closer look at the Unova starter. "Man, it seems even awesome close up.''
"What?!'' The faces of May and Dawn were completely off colored. How could something so genuine be ruined?
"That speech sounded so…practiced…'' May blinked, dumbfounded.
"Well, in my opinion,'' Ash smirked. ''That's the nicest thing he ever said, and he didn't even mention 'Dee-Dee'."
"Boy, that Kenny…'' Dawn felt a ghost leaving her body. The ghost of guilt. Even though her amnesty didn't come out of her body, she felt lightened up that from this point, things between her and Kenny are gonna take another turn. There was a moment of apprehension, as there always was, after a bad fight between friends. But ultimately, she smiled, and found this satisfactory.
"Leave it Dawn.'' May exhaled ''Boys are always tremendous chumps.''
Walking past the flummoxed, frozen faces of the two lady Coordinators, ready to brag about his Pokemon. "Oh yeah. That's my Emboar. Your first time seeing this?''
"Not really,'' Kenny rebuffed. ''But this Emboar looks well nourished. You did a great job raising it.''
"Music to my ears." Ash grinned, brushing his index finger over his nose.
Kenny frowned at the budding discrepancy between them, but brushed it off. Since Ash was Dawn's friend, it only felt obligatory for him to defend Dawn at all costs from him. And that was what a best friend would have done.
"Ash,'' Kenny lowered his head, churning his excitement into another apology. ''I always barked up the wrong tree with you. I am sorry for that fight we had in Twinleaf Town. I hope we can be friends.''
He felt a hand on his shoulder, and flinched.
Ash, inexplicably… was smiling. "You'll just have to make it up to me… with a good, honest battle!"
Kenny let a laugh slip through, genuinely smiling. "You're on, Ash."
"A battle really?'' Dawn bit her teeth. Her spotlight was just stolen.
"You know, try cheering for Kenny this time,'' May advised. "You cheering for Ash would probably make him think that he's unforgiven.''
"Yeah, you got a point.'' The blunette mumbled, turning her gaze at the battlefield to find that Kenny had already chosen a side on the field, and Ash had distanced himself on the other side.
"Don't worry Dawn." May assured, ''You need to make him feel that you'll be his friend to no end.''
"Ash, his battle's gonna pump me up for the main event," Kenny expanded a Pokeball and held it tight. ''But just because you're a Champion doesn't mean you'll be winning so easily. Therefore, I will fight you with my best weapon!''
A flash was spat from the ball, soon taking the regal form of Empoleon, himself. "Empol…?" The bird frowned, tilting his head. "Empol!'' both wings spanned and held like a blade. His stare scanned out finding his mirror opposite glaring right back at him from the sidelines. "Empol!''
"Empol!'' Dawn's started squawked back.
Empoleon shrugged his shoulders, and walked gallantly over to stand opposite of Ash.
"Alright, Emboar! You're up!'' Ash pointed forward, giving the fighting type the thumps up.
Stressfully parting himself from Typhlosion's clutches, Emboar mosied over, looking refreshed and poised to battle.
"Tyh! Tyh!'' the Volcano Pokemon waved in a lovey dovey fashion. Sweatdropping, Emboar had no choice but to acknowledge with a nervous chuckle.
"This is getting all too weird…'' Dawn hung her head. Perked up, she screamed, "Hey Kenny!"
Black eyes followed the directing of waving hand, as Kenny gaped at Dawn calling out to him.
"Give him your best shot okay!'' she squealed.
Eyes glimmering, the dumbstruck Kenny stuttered before a confident smirk stretched his round jaw. He held a thumps up, ''You got it, Dee-Dee!''
Although to her Pokemon, it was never clear what made her change sides, it was only Empoleon who blindly sided with her, ready to root for Kenny, however it did not necessarily mean that they had to root against Ash.
"Why is she rooting for that pea brain. Floatzel would tell me tales of her cheering for Ash.''
"You know,'' May huffed, massaging Lucario's head. ''For someone who can sense feelings, you gotta lot to learn.''
A battle set to begin was inevitable to gather attention, as many Coordinators and spectators hustled around to form a part of the crowd.
"Hey, look! A battle's gonna take place! Drop everything and let's watch that!''
"Hey, that Trainer! Yeah, I know him. He's in the Pokemon Coronation Series!''
"Oh yeah! It's gonna be an Emboar vs Empoleon! Now, that's our Region vs the Sinnoh Region!''
Ash grinned, thumbing his nose as he stared at his opponent eagerly, "Alright Kenny." The raven-haired trainer began, "Since you challenged me, the first moves all yours." He stated.
In stark contrast to Ash, Kenny cast a set, cold and almost glaring if one were to look closely, "Fine, then." He replied, outstretching his hand and pointing at Ash's Pokemon, "Empoleon, Flash Cannon, now!" Kenny commanded.
The large bipedal navy-blue Emperor Pokemon thrust both his metal tipped wings to his side and tensed before parting his beak to unleash a narrow beam of silvery-white energy.
Ash allowed it to close in before he made his move, "Emboar. Take it!" He ordered, amber eyes both calm and eager and a grin still tugging at his lips.
The command was met with bizarre stares. There was truly no excitement quite like a Pokemon battle.
Emboar obeyed in an instant, flexing his body, allowing the beam of silver metal rush into him, and explode against his body, leaving nothing but a small spot of injury.
"Huh,'' one of the fellow Coordinators gasped. ''He made that Emboar took it like it was nothing! Awesome!''
"Hey, now I remember correctly!'' one Trainer threw a finger at Ash, ''That's the Trainer to challenge the Champion tomorrow!''
"What?! He's gonna face the Dragon Master Iris?! Man, shame on us if we miss that battle!"
"We know that Emboar is also a fighting type. You are in for trouble, mister!'' Kenny quickly dismissed. "Use Drill Peck!''
With a running wad, Empoleon blasted off the ground in a running jump and twisted his burly form, launching at Emboar like a spinning top.
Ash was nonplussed though, "Intercept it!" He ordered almost instantly in response.
Emboar met Empoleon's spinning charge head-on in mid-air and punched his fists harshly into Empoleon's spinning form. The Emperor Penguin continued to spin as hard as he could, attempting to break through and pierce Emboar with his glowing beak.
But no such luck. With each passing moment, the strength behind Emboar's haymaker slowed down Empoleon's spin and the dual Water and Steel-Type Pokemon's attack lost his luster. They landed upon the ground again, Empoleon back on his feet and bent over as Emboar kept a harsh grip on his face.
"Disengage!" Kenny shouted, eyes suddenly darting with panic and his voiced tinged with urgency.
Empoleon obeyed and tried to tug his beak from Emboar's grip, but the Mega Fire Pig Pokemon held strong. Ash himself continued to grin, "No chance, Emboar use Flamethrower!" He hollered.
At point blank range, Emboar let loose the scorching jet of flames right into Empoleon's face and let go of his beak. The jet of fire, with enough force behind it to melt stone into sand ploughed into the Emperor Pokemon's face and carried him metres away through the air and crashing into the stone wall surrounding the battlefield harshly.
The stone of the wall cracked beneath the power of the impact and Empoleon fell to the ground face first, and lay still.
"No!" Kenny cried out, clenching his fists, "C'mon Empoleon get up! You can do it!" He continued, trying to motivate his Pokemon to regain its feet.
He needn't have worried though. Empoleon pushed himself to his feet a few seconds later after regaining his bearings. His beak was bruised quite badly, and one of his three horns looked misshapen but other than that he looked fine. "Poleon!" He squawked out, swiping one of his wings at Emboar in a challenging gesture.
Emboar merely grinned back. His fighting spirit soaring with anticipation for a good battle.
Kenny breathed a sigh of relief, "Alright Empoleon, let's end this here with Hydro Cannon." The brown-haired Twinleaf Town native stated. He wasn't willing to risk losing here by getting in close again, he'd just have Empoleon blow Emboar away with the most powerful Water-type attack.
He almost shuddered with anxiety; it was far far too risky.
It took a few moments of preparation for Empoleon to gather the power needed for the attack. But Ash and Emboar seemed to fine to just wait and watch them for now. They seemed to be emulating the way Ash had battled Palmer last time they were in Twinleaf, countering each move with as minimal effort as possible and then exploding into full powered devastating attacks.
With another loud bark, Empoleon allowed the power to explode forth from his beak in the form of a small icy-blue sphere of condensed and empowered water. The attack was almost too fast for the eye to follow. Blinding in its speed, Emboar took action before Ash ordered himself and leaped straight into the air, right over the ultimate water type attack.
Ash was just fine with that though as the attack ploughed into the ground with enough power to leave a metre deep crater in Emboar's previous position. "Thunder Punch!" He ordered quickly.
Springing forward, shifting across the ground with greater speed, Emboar leaped, electrifying his powerful heavy fist and landing in front of Empoleon with an ominous boom, who couldn't dodge in time due to the recharge recoil that came with using a move like Hydro Cannon – the drawback that came with calling forth and unleashing that much power so quickly. Kenny flinched, watching his partner Pokemon soar again, recognizing his mistake instantly.
"Looks like Empoleon still has some work to do on that attack." Ash mused as Emboar landed in front of him again and they watched Empoleon shakily struggle to his feet, his metal armour plating dented and sizzling from the multiple Thunder Punches.
Kenny cursed under his breath, clenching his fists again in aggravation. It was true, no doubt about that. Empoleon had the advantage here, he should still win this battle hands down. Empoleon was fully evolved and of a typing that had edge above Emboar, yet the boar possessed some attacks that could be really turn the tables on them any time.
Going by the statistics this should be an easy win for him. So why?
Dawn cringed as Empoleon went down again, "Kenny and Empoleon are really taking a beating out there." The bluenette Coordinator commented, "And Ash n' Emboar don't seem to have even broken a sweat yet."
"I can simply see the difference in their strengths right now.'' May hummed. "But then, this battle is not a Contest Battle. This is a battle where you have to knock out a Pokemon completely, where beating a Champion is just as hard as it sounds.''
Dawn sighed, cupping her chin in thought. Kenny was a very strong Coordinator, but he was being taken apart with ease out there. "Okay, I'll give you the point on the experience thing but I don't see how Kenny can't just battle like he does in a contest and put up a better fight now." Dawn responded, confusion showing in her sapphire blue eyes.
May nodded, "In comparison with Ash who has much more experience and trains his Pokemon day in day out to maximize their power, speed and durability – Kenny falls woefully short just like any Coordinator who hasn't been at it for years on end would be." She told her, voice serious and lecturing.
Ash chewed his lip in thought as Emboar once again landed infront of him after countering Empoleon's attack. Emulating Flint's battle-style was going well, but he was copying it far too much and he was feeling antsy from holding back for so long. This waiting and countering before attacking style was good, he admitted it worked well but it just wasn't his thing. He'd have to work with it a bit to make it more flexible so it fit in with his own proper style of battling.
"Steel Wing!" Kenny commanded, breaking him from his thoughts.
Empoleon blitzed forward, bruised and dented in multiple places and noticeably limping but attacking full throttle nonetheless. Ash's amber eyes narrowed, time to win this. It was good practice, but the battle was going far too slow to be as exciting as normally.
"Fire Pledge." The raven-haired trainer ordered simply.
When Empoleon was a few feet from Emboar, the latter smacked the ground beneath him, and plume of flames began to tower from the earth. One after the another, the circled around the behemoth, covering the area all around Emboar from the area all around Emboar for multiple metres was full of eruptive flames.
Empoleon was smashed harshly in the face from the front, only to stumble back and be smashed in the back by another pillar of fire. From side-to-side Empoleon was battered around by the fiery pillars before they all came together as a team, and engulfed Empoleon from all sides, heating the penguin beyond belief.
Beaten nearly to a pulp, and dented almost everywhere on his body Empoleon fell to his knees groaning and eyes clenched shut in pain.
"Man, look at him go! He's folding this guy!'' one Coordinator whooped.
"Man, I could say our Champion's got some tough competition tomorrow!''
Kenny's canines bared. How hard could it be to beat this guy? While Kenny was still trying to figure strategies out, Empoleon wasn't that patient. He stood right back up, eyes turned a little blood shot. A blue glow overcame his stout body, highlighting all over.
"Could that be Empoleon's ability, Torrent?'' May pondered, couldn't take her eyes off Empoleon's magnificent ability that had awakened.
"Can you still fight Empoleon?'' Kenny asked, concern evident in his eyes. No stressful subject was worth more to him than his Pokemon. When his Pokemon's response came in the form of a nod, Kenny's eyes lit up and he directed his Pokemon once again.
"Torrent will increase the power of your Water type moves! Use Hydro Cannon at full power!'' Kenny yelled.
Empoleon grinned before parting his beak wide, gathering power. In the next second, the flash disappeared and was replaced by a giant ball of rotating water, seemingly very powerful to be compressed. In one toss of his head, Empoleon fired the majestic sphere at Emboar, sending the fire type careening through the field.
Like many others, Emboar slammed directly into a wall of the field, and roared upon the impact, taking severe damage upon receiving the move. But soon, he opened his eyes, much to the relief of his trainer and got up from the crater, albeit not in the best of his conditions.
A smirk crossed Ash's features as he sighed in relief. That was all the opening Ash needed, "Alright Emboar, let's end this! Use Heat Crash!" Ash commanded, punching his fist forward in triumph.
Stomping the field until a curtain of dust was lifted around his body, Emboar vaulted forth, protected inside a sphere of searing red orange flames. Empoleon remain strewn on the ground, unable to move despite several movements of his flippers. He glanced up and managed a weak squawk, before Emboar literally crashed over the water type with the unchecked weight of his flaming body, uniquely crushing the Emperor Pokemon. A terrible, breathtaking pain knocked all of the oxygen from Empoleon's lungs, his pupils shrinking to the size of pinpoints.
The effect was almost instantaneous. Empoleon briefly cried out in pain, before half of his body was burnt and the dual Water and Steel-type felt air once more as Emboar rolled away for safety.
"...! Empoleon!" The chestnut-haired Coordinator panicked, leaning forward to peer at his Pokémon. He was disappointed to find that, unsurprisingly, there were swirls in his eyes.
There was silence for a few moments, before the mutterings of the crowd got a little louder.
"Man, he really destroyed Empoleon!''
"Even Torrent didn't come too handy.''
"This trainer has already surpassed Alder just like our current Champion Iris did.''
Kenny sighed in disappointment, but he took his defeat like as gracefully as possible, "Well done Empoleon, you did a great job take a nice long rest." He said, holding a Pokeball up and returning his Pokemon into it within a beam of red light. Recalling Empoleon, he dispelled the thought, and braved meeting Ash's eyes with a smile. "Hey, congrats. Emboar was really cool, out there."
"Yeah, he's already fired up for Pokemon Coronation Series!" He declared, idly smoothing down the parts of his ruffled fur from the fight and patting him to make sure he was un-injured.
Emboar pumped a fist to Ash on his shoulder, "boar!" He declared in return, eyes blazing with fiery determination. Walking over, he offered a hand to help Kenny up. ''That was a ripper, man. But I don't think Empoleon's gonna make it to the Contest anytime soon.''
"...Heh." Kenny smirked, pulling himself up. "Yeah, we're 's head to the Pokémon Center. I don't know about Emboar, but I think Empoleon could use a rest."
"Kenny.''
The brunet turned towards the voice and found Dawn and May standing right behind him.
"Dawn…I…'' The Coordinator stammered, "I am sorry I was distracted I never really got to…''
"SAVE IT!'' the blunette chided, her voice loud enough to flinch May besides her. The Twinleaf native then threw a menacing finger at her neighbour, laying down the challenge. ''You can save your lil speech after the Contest, because the only thing I expect from you now is a tough Competition!''
Furrowing his brows, and in those zealous words, Kenny had obtained the answer he was looking for. He managed a playful smirk, "Alright Dee Dee. You're on!''
While the two neighbours exchanged their competitive spirit, he turned around, slowly making his way towards the Pokemon Center.
"You acted pretty maturely this time,'' May teased.
"Oh, just the feeling of beating him is gonna make me feel all better!'' Dawn pumped her fists. "Now I am all fired up. Hey, where is all this heat coming from…?''
Dawn blinked sniffing, as she felt her right side getting a little hotter. She switched looks to find that Typhlosion was still burning up, her face was awkwardly redder by seeing Emboar tend to his wounds.
"Of course, you have gotten side tracked.'' Dawn deadpanned.
"Now that you mention it, it is getting a bit hot'' Ash twisted his lips, oblivious to the fact that Typhlosion was the source of the heat, pulled off his hat, and ran a hand through his hair. Once again, Dawn felt that her other side of the field seemed to level up the temperature, and curiously turned to find May's cheeks heated up and giving off steam as she watched Ash unbuttoned his shirt.
"Oh boy,'' Dawn tiredly hung her head. "These girls gotta have fun.''
Oh what? What is that I hear, another recap episode, that's wonderful. We had a recap sandwich here. First Goh recap, then filler, and again a recap. Make us look at things again which we don't wanna see. Well, not counting this Friday, but just waiting for the next one, a question pops in my head. If Goh's on his Mew Mission, who's gonna be cheering for Ash in the stands. I mean, Hop's gonna root for his brother. Ash is left all alone, unless… a fan theory that 'some of his friends are gonna return' can come true. Now, all could be delightful, but 'all' could also mean 'extra' screen time. Three episodes for this battle does sound a thorough decision, coz we know Leon roots out competition quickly. Now we can't complain that Ash won't be calling on his reserves coz his current Journeys team (four of them) took down Cynthia.
With high offenses and raw strength, Leon can be a challenge. Now we don't know the end outcome of this battle, but we can easily say that Ash will defeat either five or all six of his Pokemon. I am not worried about Pikachu and Lucario. But I do want that all remaining four fight their absolute best like their life depended on it.
For Dragonite: I believe that her Multiscale should be activated. Draco Meteor is her last move and they won't change it. If they need to keep Hurricane, at least its secondary effect needs to charm. An elemental move like Fire, Ice, Water and Electric can really add an advantage to Dragonite's arsenal. Dragon Dance perhaps, may or may not be needed. An Outrage theory also sounds good, as an angry dragon is unstoppable, but of course that opposes Dragonite's nature.
Gengar: I doubt Ash is gonna even Giga Dynamax him. Yet, Gengar has to be absolute tricky. An unceremonious Cursed Body could give a lot of advantage. I believe Gengar will be the one to fued against Dragapult since moves like Shadow Ball and Dazzling Gleam will be very effective. They can bring back Ice Punch again too. That won't be breaking any rules. Sludge Bomb needs the poisoning effect. Ash can only beat Leon being all offensive, defensive and crafty. Supernatural tricks are necessary.
Sirfetch'd – One of the most underestimated and underrated Pokemon, who displayed valor and proved everyone wrong. While Meteor Assault has been perfectly practiced, hey, if it can take out an Elite's Altaria, and Cynthia's Milotic, I can reckon the damage it will land on one of Leon's Pokemon. Preferably I want this to happen to Rillaboom. I hugely underestimated Fury Cutter. Just like its Japanese Name, it's much better than Leaf Blade, and has base power upto 160. Detect is absolute necessary. One hit from any Leon's Pokemon just sweeps you off the battle. Brutal Swing. Now here I don't know what Brutal Swing's gonna do. It can be a good long rang move despite being a physical one, but whereas Night Slash was preferred, Brutal Swing does play a better role in throwing foes off guard. However, if a last minute new move was to come up, (seeing that many times Sirfetch'd has to chase his leek and shield if separated from them) Steel Wing's a good move.
Dracovish – The Champion Destroyer. Been in battles with four champions and defeated two of their Pokemon. With ability like Strong Jaw, nothing has to be worried when moves like Fishious Rend and Ice Fang are employed. And Dragon Rush always ends up as a finisher. The worrisome part is its defenses. The defenses of this Pokemon just aren't good. And just no good move to raise defense stats except Ancient Power which may raise all stats at once, however knowing how less of a chance Leon gives his opponents, Ancient Power just isn't recommended. The only thing few good moves to replace an unnecessary Water Gun is Brine, which can work just like Lucario's Reversal. It also adds weightage to the low defenses theory since Dracovish will be expected to take a beating, or Super Fang. Just end it pretty quickly, however one Special Attack is required. Leech Life is my most desirable choice "Bite nastier and steal as much as you can" Two birds with one stone.
Lucario: Just perfect. Mega Evolution, checked. Aura Abilities, checked. Bond Phenomenon: checked. Giant Aura Sphere: checked. Mega Evolution Ability: Pending. That's right. If they wanna make Bullet Punch and Aura Sphere stronger, they need to give Mega Lucario his ability, otherwise something will always remain. No writer touches Reversal. That's been Lucario's signature finisher ever since. Steel Beam's gone. No problem. With Bullet Punch, no other Steel Type move is required. If they wanna keep Double Team, even after using it hardly in Cynthia's battle, I think yet a better move can come handy. No Close Combat, Bullet Punch is already doing its job. Guess that cuts out Power up Punch too. Bone Rush…nah, won't be effective since Charizard is a flying type too. Laser Focus can be something, to ensure a Critical Hit, or a Swords Dance. Dragon Pulse doesn't sound bad since Gen 6, one of Ash's Pokemon always had it.
Three episodes guys, three episodes will either give us what we wanted since our childhood or it may not. But these three episodes, I am really going to enjoy.