"Chapter 14: Victory"
"Evolving?!" Gary exclaimed. "But...Charizards can't evolve...can they?"
"Apparently they can," Professor Oak said, still in awe of the spectacle he was witnessing before him. "In the past couple years, it was discovered that Charmander, as well as Bulbasaur and Squirtle, each had another evolution; a third level, if you will. This third level of evolution shocked researchers because no stage of evolution this high had ever been discovered before. I myself have never seen these new evolutions in person, and know very little about any of them."
"Incredible," Brock said.
"You got that right," said Richie.
Ash stood in silent awe down on the field as he watched his Pokémon before him glow in a bright light, slowly growing into a larger, more powerful figure. His father, David, was just as shocked. Everyone in the arena was shocked. No one had foreseen something like this happening today. But it was, right before their very eyes. After a few more seconds, the change was complete. Charizard, or rather its evolved form, had stopped glowing, and its new figure was now there for everyone to see. It had finally sunk into Ash's head; his Charizard had just evolved right there in front of him.
"I don't believe it," Ash said, continuing to gaze upon Charizard's new form. It stood about 12 feet high, much larger than its previous size as a Charizard. Its wingspan was now doubled, and the edges of them looked razor-sharp as the Pokémon flexed those very wings. Ash could see the long, needle-pointed claws at the end of each of its hands. Its jaw was just a ferocious, with long, pointed teeth extending down from the top jaw well below the outside of the bottom. Strangest of all, it had two tails, and swung them back and forth before Ash. Each tail had it own flame on it, which burned larger and brighter than Charizard's flame. Slowly, Ash reached for his Pokédex, hoping it would tell him something about this Pokémon.
"Charmodo," the Pokédex said. "The evolved form of Charizard. Few of these Pokémon have ever been seen. It displays qualities of both Fire and Dragon types, however, nothing else is currently known about this Pokémon."
"Charmodo," Ash said. He watched as Charmodo shifted its head to look Ash straight in the eye. Ash started to wonder if Charmodo was even going to listen to him. When Charmander evolved into Charmeleon, it didn't listen to him, and when it evolved into Charizard, its obedience got even worse. Ash was hoping deep inside that Charizard had evolved for him and that it hadn't forgot that now that it was a Charmodo. The two continued to stare each other right in the eye until Charmodo flashed Ash a smile, easing of all Ash's fears. The young Pokémon trainer breathed a sigh of relief.
"Well, now I've seen everything," the announcer said. "A Charizard has just evolved before our very eyes here at the Pokémon Masters Tournament. As soon as he get some information on this new Pokémon, we'll be sure to pass it your way, but for now, I think we're all interested to see how David Ketchum responds to this new development.
"Impressive," David said. "Most impressive. However, it makes no difference. This match has already shifted too far in my direction to go back now. Metagross, Meteor Mash!"
Metagross began to prepare its powerful meteor attack, but Charmodo would have none of that. It turned its attention back towards its opponent, and after inhaling deeply, it blasted a hot streak of flames at David's Metagross. After the storm of fire let up, everyone could see the blackened, badly singed body of Metagross. David couldn't believe it. That new Pokémon of Ash's had just annihilated one of David's strongest Pokémon in a single shot.
"Metagross can no longer battle," the referee said. "The, uh, other Pokémon wins."
"It's a Charmodo!" Ash called out to the referee to indicate him of its name.
"Thanks," the referee replied.
"So, that's the way you want to play it," David said. "Fine, we'll match Dragon vs. Dragon. Salamence, I choose you!"
David tossed out his next Pokémon, which contained the fearsome Dragon-type, Salamence. It immediately flew out of the ball and high above the stadium. A few seconds later it soared back down to ground level and took its place before the waiting Charmodo.
"David has called out his Salamence," the announcer said. "Will it, or anything for that matter, be able to handle Charmodo?"
"Alright, Salamence," David said. "No more fooling around. Let's show them what a real Dragon Pokémon can do. Dragon Claw!"
Salamence flapped its rather large wings and took off into the air, flying towards its opponent. It held its sharp claws out before it and proceeded to fly straight into Charmodo, digging its powerful claws right into its scaly skin. It let go and flew backwards, wanting to see how Charmodo handled the Dragon Claw attack. It looked up and saw Charmodo was barely fazed by it at all.
"Grr, try again!" David shouted. Salamence once again flew towards Charmodo, preparing to attack with another Dragon Claw. This time, however, Charmodo caught it in midair, preventing it from launching a strike.
"Good job, Charmodo," Ash said. "Now show them your Dragon Claw."
Charmodo tossed Salamence away from its body, and then lunged forward, lashing out at it with its own claws. It landed a perfect strike in Salamence's midsection, which sent David's Pokémon soaring backwards to the ground. David looked on intently, hoping his Pokémon would get back up and put up a bit more of a fight, but it couldn't. It was no match at all for Charmodo, and promptly fainted on the spot.
"Salamence has been defeated," the referee said.
"And just like that, David is down to three Pokémon," the announcer said. "His next Pokémon better be something good, because I honestly don't see how Charmodo can be beaten at this point. This match has taken a decided turn in Ash's favor."
"You're doing great, Charmodo!" Ash cheered. "Keep it up!"
"Let's see it handle a Water type!" David said, desperation growing in his voice. He quickly threw his next PokéBall out onto the field, eager to get rid of this new menace. Emerging from the ball was the ever-frightening Gyarados. It let out a huge roar as it floated in the air, just above field level.
"Show them what you got," David said. "Hydro Pump!"
Gyarados fired a massive blast of water from its mouth, which soared across the field and right at Charmodo. It connected with the large Fire-type, causing it to recoil slightly, but overall it was unharmed.
"This can't be happening!" David yelled. Ash could only smile as he watched his father slowly lose his grip on the match. David was beginning to grow more desperate now. Desperate, and furious.
"Gyarados, Hyper Beam attack!" he shouted. "Obliterate it!"
Gyarados floated back a bit, charging up its powerful Hyper Beam. Charmodo just watched it do so, and flexed its wings a bit as it did, almost looking like it had no interest in the oncoming attack. David's eyes narrowed as he watched Gyarados unleash its blast, which shot like a cannon out of its mouth. The next thing David realized was that Charmodo was gone. He looked around for it, finally spotting it flying in the air above the ground. It had completely avoided the attack. David knew he was in trouble now. Gyarados was completely vulnerable, as it now had to recharge.
"Nice try," Ash said. "Charmodo, give it a Hyper Beam of your own!"
Charmodo landed back on the ground and opened its mouth. David could see a ball of energy building up within it. In a matter of seconds, it was all over. Charmodo's Hyper Beam struck Gyarados, instantly knocking it out. Extremely frustrated, David recalled Gyarados and realized, that with only two Pokémon left, he really only had but one choice.
"This...ends...now," he said, taking his next PokéBall from his jacket. He said nothing and tossed it out onto the field. The Pokémon that came out of it was another one Ash was unfamiliar with. The red-colored Pokémon was shaped like large ball, with crater-like holes dotting its skin. Light smoke was billowing out of each hole. Ash could see two glowing blue eyes on the front of its body, and a mouth too. It stood on four sharply clawed legs, and it had a tail.
"What in the world is that?" Ash asked.
"Meet Flamburst," David said. "I really didn't want it to come to this, Ash, but you left me no choice. I thought my other Pokémon were capable of handling your new Charmodo, but I underestimated it and I underestimated you."
"Big mistake," said Ash. "Though I doubt your Flamburst is going to fair any different."
"True enough. The end result will be just like the others. Flamburst will faint, but then again, that's the point."
"What are you talking about?"
"Do you know what they call Flamburst, Ash? It's known as the Kamikaze Pokémon. Because it has the unique type combination of Fire and Poison, its body is extremely unstable, and can explode without warning, or on command."
"Uh-oh," Ash said, realizing just what his father was planning to do. He knew he couldn't take down Charmodo in a standard fight, so he was going to have a Pokémon go down and take Charmodo with it. Ash knew he couldn't sit idly as this was about to happen.
"Charmodo, you've got to--"
"Flamburst!" David shouted loudly, cutting off his son's words. "Explosion!"
Flamburst's body began to glow a darker shade of red. Soon flashes of light were shooting out of its holes on its body. Ash knew the explosion was imminent, and there was nothing he could do except hope that Charmodo would be all right. He grabbed Pikachu and turned away from the field, wanting to make sure it wasn't injured in the blast. Then he heard it. The loud sonic boom of an Explosion attack. It ripped through the arena, and Ash could feel a cloud of dust rushing up and striking him in the back. He closed his eyes and waited for it to end. A few seconds later he opened them and turned around. The field was still covered in dust, and he waited for it to settle so he could see just what was the outcome of the blast. When the dust did fall back to the ground, he could see Charmodo. It was lying on the ground, its eyes shut. It lay there motionless. Ash rushed to its side to see if it was okay. He could tell it was still breathing, but he knew Charmodo's run in the tournament was over.
"Both Charmodo and Flamburst have fainted," the referee said. "Double Knockout!"
"In a last ditch effort to defeat Charmodo," the announcer said, "David Ketchum sacrifices one of his Pokémon with a huge Explosion. Now both trainers are down to their final Pokémon. It all comes down to this, folks. A one-on-one showdown to determine the next Ultimate Master."
"Thank you, Charmodo," Ash said, taking out its PokéBall and recalling it. "You did your best, and I'm proud of you. Thanks for giving me a chance."
Ash walked back to his Trainer's box and turned to stare down his father. He looked across the field towards him, and noticed that cocky, confident smile of his father's was back. David had the feeling the match was now his. Ash could sense that in his eyes, and knew he was going to have to give it his all if he wanted to come out on top.
"Pikachu," he said, "it's time. It's all up to you, buddy. I know you'll make me proud, win or lose."
"Pika!" Pikachu said, reassuring its trainer that it could do this. Pikachu rushed out to centerfield, eager to finally participate in this final match.
"Let me ask you something, Ash," David said. "You and that Pikachu seem really close. By any chance, was it your first Pokémon?"
"Yes, it was," Ash said. "It was given to me by Professor Oak on my first day as a Pokémon trainer, and we've been pals ever since."
"Interesting," David said. "You know, Professor Oak gave me my first Pokémon too. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised to see what it is."
David Ketchum took the final PokéBall off of his leather jacket. He smiled as he held it before him for Ash to see. Ash was wondering what Pokémon his father was first given. Was it Bulbasaur? Charmander? Squirtle? It had to be one of them, and would surely be fully evolved by now. He hoped it was Blastoise that he'd be facing next. Pikachu would have a chance then. If he was going to send out a Venusaur or Charizard, well, Pikachu could be--
David threw the PokéBall out onto the field. Ash waited to see what would materialize out of it. Slowly the red energy that had escaped the ball was taking form. A Pokémon, Pikachu's size, began to appear. Ash's jaw dropped once it has finished materializing and he realized what it was: a Pikachu.
"Y-your first Pokémon was a...Pikachu?" Ash asked.
"Yes," David said. "Same as you."
Everyone sitting around Professor Oak in the stands turned to him for an explanation.
"What?" the Professor wondered. "He showed up late all I had left was a Pikachu. Wait, that was just like Ash. Ha, what are the odds of that!"
"Figures," Gary said.
"Here we go, everyone," said the announcer. "It's Pikachu vs. Pikachu, father vs. son, with the Masters Tournament championship hanging in the balance."
"Alright, Pikachu," Ash said. "If we just believe in ourselves, he can't win."
Pikachu nodded in agreement with its trainer. It was given inspiration by Charizard and was determined to win this thing for its trainer.
"Start off with Agility!" Ash called. Pikachu dashed like lightning towards its fellow Pikachu.
"Double Team," David said. Ash's Pikachu came to a stop as David's was beginning to run circles around it, creating the illusion of multiple Pikachu. It knew it would have to pick the right one, or it would be vulnerable to attack. It twirled around, trying to locate the real Pikachu.
The attack came suddenly, from the left. David's Pikachu stopped its Double Team and slammed itself into Ash's Pikachu. Ash gritted his teeth, feeling stupid for being led into a trap like that. His father only acted like he was going on the defensive, but instead attacked when they both least expected it. Ash watched as Pikachu got back up onto it feet. He knew it was his turn to go on the offensive.
"Pikachu, Thunderbolt!" he called.
"Pikachu, use your Thunderbolt!" David yelled. Both Pikachu's cheeks began to spark as they stared each other down. They launched their attacks at the same time and watched as they collided in the space between them. They both fizzled out, neutralizing each other in midair.
"Another Thunderbolt!" David called.
"Pikachu, Light Screen!" Ash shouted. Pikachu closed its eyes and generated a shield of light in front of it, which protected it from the incoming electrical attack, which struck the screen and disappeared.
"Brick Break, now!" David yelled. His Pikachu leapt into the air towards the Light Screen, its fist extended. It flew right through the barrier, completely shattering it and continuing to come straight at Ash's Pikachu. It had no time to react as David's Pokémon connected with its fist, knocking Ash's Pikachu backwards.
"Shake it off," Ash said. "Use your Iron Tail!"
Pikachu got back onto its feet with its tail starting to turn silver in color. It turned and swiped its tail at the other Pikachu, nailing it right in the stomach area. David's Pikachu tumbled backwards. It was injured but still was able to fight. It stood up again and stared down Ash's Pikachu. The two Electric Pokémon looked each other fiercely in the eye while panting heavily. Both were growing tired but neither was going to give up. A different strategy crossed Ash's mind.
"Pikachu, use Charge," he said. Pikachu nodded its head and began to spark its red cheeks. Soon its whole body was glowing yellow.
"Don't let it power-up!" David shouted. His Pikachu tried to obey its trainer's command, dashing towards Ash's and preparing to Quick Attack it. Ash's Pikachu jumped out of the way of the attack and continued to charge.
"Keep going, Pikachu," Ash said.
"Get it now!" David screamed, growing extremely agitated. His Pikachu tried again to attack but it was moving much too slow now. It was being to tire. Ash's Pikachu kept charging. David's Pikachu made one final attempt to stop it but missed. Ash sensed it was time.
"Pikachu, finish it off with Shock Wave!"
Pikachu smiled as it finished charging. "Pika...CHUUUUUU!" it screamed as it unleashed it stored electrical energy towards the other Pikachu. David tried yelling something but his shouts went unheard over the sound of the electrical crackling of the attack. He could only watch and hope his Pikachu would dodge the attack. The electrical blast connected with David's Pikachu. Ash's tried to pour on the juice as much as possible. It was beginning to grow weary itself. Ash could see he had overloaded it.
"Pikachu, stop!" he shouted, hoping it wasn't too late. Pikachu ceased it Shock Wave. He saw his father's Pikachu, surging with electrical energy, still standing. Barely standing, mind you, but it was still on its feet. He watched as his Pikachu tried to shake off its weariness. Both trainers knew their Pokémon were at the breaking point. Each could faint at any moment. Both Pokémon tried desperately to keep from losing consciousness. Finally, one could stand no longer. It fell over to the ground, completely exhausted. There it fainted. The tournament was at an end.
"This match is over," the referee said. "The winner of the Pokemon Masters Tournament is Ash Ketchum!"
Ash didn't know how to react. He had won. He stood there, silent. He heard nothing. He didn't even hear the deafening roar of the crowd's jubilation. He was finally knocked back into reality by Misty rushing up and giving him a huge hug.
"You did it, Ash!" she cried. "You did it!"
"I...I did it," Ash said. "I can't believe it. I did it!"
"He's done it, folks!" the announcer shouted. "Ash Ketchum has won the Pokémon Masters Tournament with a thrilling come-from-behind victory against his own father! This has got to go down as the most exciting Masters Tournament finals ever!"
Ash ran to pick up Pikachu. He held the tired Pokémon in his arms, giving it a huge hug for a job well done.
"Thanks, buddy," Ash said. "I couldn't have done it without you."
"Pika..." Pikachu said weakly, though with a smile.
"No!" David Ketchum shouted from his knees, slamming his fist into the ground. "No, this can't be happening! This was supposed to be my turn! After all these years, I was supposed to win!"
He looked up to see his son standing in front of him. David rose to his feet and watched as his son extended his hand towards him.
"Great match, Dad," he said. David didn't move for a few seconds. Finally, he took Ash's hand and shook it.
"Great match, son," he said. "You are the better trainer. You deserve to win. I still do have a lot to learn about Pokémon, and what it means to be a father. Only in defeat I finally see this. Funny how it's always that way, huh?"
"Yeah," Ash said as they finished their handshake. The father and son looked each other in the eyes one last time.
"Until we meet again, Ash," David said. Ash nodded, then watched as his father turned around, stopping to pick up his Pikachu, and walked off the field into the darkness of the tunnel in front of them. Ash closed his eyes and breathed deeply. He opened them, looking up into the stands to where he knew his family and friends were watching him the whole match. They weren't there.
"Ash!" a voice shouted from behind him. He turned around, and there was his mother, running up to him and giving him a hug. "I knew you could do it. All you had to do was believe in yourself."
"I know, Mom," Ash said. "Thanks."
"Way to go, man," Brock said, patting him on the back.
"Yeah, congratulations," said Richie.
"I didn't think you could ever do it," Gary said. "I'm glad you proved me wrong once again. You're one heck of a trainer."
"Of course he is!" May said, yanking him away and giving Ash a hug.
"Good job, Ash," Professor Oak said. "I knew you would make us all proud."
"Thanks, everyone," Ash said. "I couldn't have done it without all your support, especially from one person in particular. If you'll excuse me, there's something I need to do."
Ash walked over to where Misty was standing. She was still smiling, as was Ash. He stood before her and took her hand.
"Misty," he said. "This whole experience has made me realize just how important you are to me. I know it's always seemed like I have Pokémon on the brain, but there's something more important to me that being a Pokémon trainer, and that's you. You've always been there for me, even when I didn't deserve to have you by my side. I hope you always will be. Misty...will you marry me?"
Misty was taken completely by surprise. She hadn't expected this. But, it was a good surprise. Something she had always hoped for. And now it was here.
"Of course I will, Ash!" she said, lunging forward to kiss him. They kissed for what seemed like hours, though it was only a few seconds. Finally they let up and looked each other in the eye.
"Come on," Misty said. "We've got a lot of celebrating to do."
*****
"And now," Mr. Ishihara said, "I give you Ultimate Master Ash Ketchum!"
Ash smiled as he walked up to the podium located at the center of Legends Stadium. He walked slowly, taking in as much as the moment as he could. He reached the place where Mr. Ishihara was standing, and shook his hand.
"Ash," he said, "you have shown great spirit and determination here at the Masters Tournament. You and your Pokémon battled bravely, with honor and sportsmanship, and now you will be forever remembered for your great achievement here today. It is my honor to bestow on you the rank of Ultimate Master, and present you with the Masters Tournament cup. Congratulations, Ash."
Mr. Ishihara reached behind him and picked up the bowl-shaped, silver-colored metallic trophy. Ash took the trophy by its two handles and lifted it high above his head. The crowed cheered wildly, as did Ash's friends and family. Back in Pallet Town, Tracey and all of Ash's Pokémon cheered as well. They cheered because today, they had witnessed history. They had witnessed a talented Pokémon trainer achieve his dream. But most of all, they cheered because they saw the one they loved come out a champion, a winner, a hero, as they all dreamed he one day would. Today was that day. Today, Ash Ketchum had become an Ultimate Master.
The End.
"Evolving?!" Gary exclaimed. "But...Charizards can't evolve...can they?"
"Apparently they can," Professor Oak said, still in awe of the spectacle he was witnessing before him. "In the past couple years, it was discovered that Charmander, as well as Bulbasaur and Squirtle, each had another evolution; a third level, if you will. This third level of evolution shocked researchers because no stage of evolution this high had ever been discovered before. I myself have never seen these new evolutions in person, and know very little about any of them."
"Incredible," Brock said.
"You got that right," said Richie.
Ash stood in silent awe down on the field as he watched his Pokémon before him glow in a bright light, slowly growing into a larger, more powerful figure. His father, David, was just as shocked. Everyone in the arena was shocked. No one had foreseen something like this happening today. But it was, right before their very eyes. After a few more seconds, the change was complete. Charizard, or rather its evolved form, had stopped glowing, and its new figure was now there for everyone to see. It had finally sunk into Ash's head; his Charizard had just evolved right there in front of him.
"I don't believe it," Ash said, continuing to gaze upon Charizard's new form. It stood about 12 feet high, much larger than its previous size as a Charizard. Its wingspan was now doubled, and the edges of them looked razor-sharp as the Pokémon flexed those very wings. Ash could see the long, needle-pointed claws at the end of each of its hands. Its jaw was just a ferocious, with long, pointed teeth extending down from the top jaw well below the outside of the bottom. Strangest of all, it had two tails, and swung them back and forth before Ash. Each tail had it own flame on it, which burned larger and brighter than Charizard's flame. Slowly, Ash reached for his Pokédex, hoping it would tell him something about this Pokémon.
"Charmodo," the Pokédex said. "The evolved form of Charizard. Few of these Pokémon have ever been seen. It displays qualities of both Fire and Dragon types, however, nothing else is currently known about this Pokémon."
"Charmodo," Ash said. He watched as Charmodo shifted its head to look Ash straight in the eye. Ash started to wonder if Charmodo was even going to listen to him. When Charmander evolved into Charmeleon, it didn't listen to him, and when it evolved into Charizard, its obedience got even worse. Ash was hoping deep inside that Charizard had evolved for him and that it hadn't forgot that now that it was a Charmodo. The two continued to stare each other right in the eye until Charmodo flashed Ash a smile, easing of all Ash's fears. The young Pokémon trainer breathed a sigh of relief.
"Well, now I've seen everything," the announcer said. "A Charizard has just evolved before our very eyes here at the Pokémon Masters Tournament. As soon as he get some information on this new Pokémon, we'll be sure to pass it your way, but for now, I think we're all interested to see how David Ketchum responds to this new development.
"Impressive," David said. "Most impressive. However, it makes no difference. This match has already shifted too far in my direction to go back now. Metagross, Meteor Mash!"
Metagross began to prepare its powerful meteor attack, but Charmodo would have none of that. It turned its attention back towards its opponent, and after inhaling deeply, it blasted a hot streak of flames at David's Metagross. After the storm of fire let up, everyone could see the blackened, badly singed body of Metagross. David couldn't believe it. That new Pokémon of Ash's had just annihilated one of David's strongest Pokémon in a single shot.
"Metagross can no longer battle," the referee said. "The, uh, other Pokémon wins."
"It's a Charmodo!" Ash called out to the referee to indicate him of its name.
"Thanks," the referee replied.
"So, that's the way you want to play it," David said. "Fine, we'll match Dragon vs. Dragon. Salamence, I choose you!"
David tossed out his next Pokémon, which contained the fearsome Dragon-type, Salamence. It immediately flew out of the ball and high above the stadium. A few seconds later it soared back down to ground level and took its place before the waiting Charmodo.
"David has called out his Salamence," the announcer said. "Will it, or anything for that matter, be able to handle Charmodo?"
"Alright, Salamence," David said. "No more fooling around. Let's show them what a real Dragon Pokémon can do. Dragon Claw!"
Salamence flapped its rather large wings and took off into the air, flying towards its opponent. It held its sharp claws out before it and proceeded to fly straight into Charmodo, digging its powerful claws right into its scaly skin. It let go and flew backwards, wanting to see how Charmodo handled the Dragon Claw attack. It looked up and saw Charmodo was barely fazed by it at all.
"Grr, try again!" David shouted. Salamence once again flew towards Charmodo, preparing to attack with another Dragon Claw. This time, however, Charmodo caught it in midair, preventing it from launching a strike.
"Good job, Charmodo," Ash said. "Now show them your Dragon Claw."
Charmodo tossed Salamence away from its body, and then lunged forward, lashing out at it with its own claws. It landed a perfect strike in Salamence's midsection, which sent David's Pokémon soaring backwards to the ground. David looked on intently, hoping his Pokémon would get back up and put up a bit more of a fight, but it couldn't. It was no match at all for Charmodo, and promptly fainted on the spot.
"Salamence has been defeated," the referee said.
"And just like that, David is down to three Pokémon," the announcer said. "His next Pokémon better be something good, because I honestly don't see how Charmodo can be beaten at this point. This match has taken a decided turn in Ash's favor."
"You're doing great, Charmodo!" Ash cheered. "Keep it up!"
"Let's see it handle a Water type!" David said, desperation growing in his voice. He quickly threw his next PokéBall out onto the field, eager to get rid of this new menace. Emerging from the ball was the ever-frightening Gyarados. It let out a huge roar as it floated in the air, just above field level.
"Show them what you got," David said. "Hydro Pump!"
Gyarados fired a massive blast of water from its mouth, which soared across the field and right at Charmodo. It connected with the large Fire-type, causing it to recoil slightly, but overall it was unharmed.
"This can't be happening!" David yelled. Ash could only smile as he watched his father slowly lose his grip on the match. David was beginning to grow more desperate now. Desperate, and furious.
"Gyarados, Hyper Beam attack!" he shouted. "Obliterate it!"
Gyarados floated back a bit, charging up its powerful Hyper Beam. Charmodo just watched it do so, and flexed its wings a bit as it did, almost looking like it had no interest in the oncoming attack. David's eyes narrowed as he watched Gyarados unleash its blast, which shot like a cannon out of its mouth. The next thing David realized was that Charmodo was gone. He looked around for it, finally spotting it flying in the air above the ground. It had completely avoided the attack. David knew he was in trouble now. Gyarados was completely vulnerable, as it now had to recharge.
"Nice try," Ash said. "Charmodo, give it a Hyper Beam of your own!"
Charmodo landed back on the ground and opened its mouth. David could see a ball of energy building up within it. In a matter of seconds, it was all over. Charmodo's Hyper Beam struck Gyarados, instantly knocking it out. Extremely frustrated, David recalled Gyarados and realized, that with only two Pokémon left, he really only had but one choice.
"This...ends...now," he said, taking his next PokéBall from his jacket. He said nothing and tossed it out onto the field. The Pokémon that came out of it was another one Ash was unfamiliar with. The red-colored Pokémon was shaped like large ball, with crater-like holes dotting its skin. Light smoke was billowing out of each hole. Ash could see two glowing blue eyes on the front of its body, and a mouth too. It stood on four sharply clawed legs, and it had a tail.
"What in the world is that?" Ash asked.
"Meet Flamburst," David said. "I really didn't want it to come to this, Ash, but you left me no choice. I thought my other Pokémon were capable of handling your new Charmodo, but I underestimated it and I underestimated you."
"Big mistake," said Ash. "Though I doubt your Flamburst is going to fair any different."
"True enough. The end result will be just like the others. Flamburst will faint, but then again, that's the point."
"What are you talking about?"
"Do you know what they call Flamburst, Ash? It's known as the Kamikaze Pokémon. Because it has the unique type combination of Fire and Poison, its body is extremely unstable, and can explode without warning, or on command."
"Uh-oh," Ash said, realizing just what his father was planning to do. He knew he couldn't take down Charmodo in a standard fight, so he was going to have a Pokémon go down and take Charmodo with it. Ash knew he couldn't sit idly as this was about to happen.
"Charmodo, you've got to--"
"Flamburst!" David shouted loudly, cutting off his son's words. "Explosion!"
Flamburst's body began to glow a darker shade of red. Soon flashes of light were shooting out of its holes on its body. Ash knew the explosion was imminent, and there was nothing he could do except hope that Charmodo would be all right. He grabbed Pikachu and turned away from the field, wanting to make sure it wasn't injured in the blast. Then he heard it. The loud sonic boom of an Explosion attack. It ripped through the arena, and Ash could feel a cloud of dust rushing up and striking him in the back. He closed his eyes and waited for it to end. A few seconds later he opened them and turned around. The field was still covered in dust, and he waited for it to settle so he could see just what was the outcome of the blast. When the dust did fall back to the ground, he could see Charmodo. It was lying on the ground, its eyes shut. It lay there motionless. Ash rushed to its side to see if it was okay. He could tell it was still breathing, but he knew Charmodo's run in the tournament was over.
"Both Charmodo and Flamburst have fainted," the referee said. "Double Knockout!"
"In a last ditch effort to defeat Charmodo," the announcer said, "David Ketchum sacrifices one of his Pokémon with a huge Explosion. Now both trainers are down to their final Pokémon. It all comes down to this, folks. A one-on-one showdown to determine the next Ultimate Master."
"Thank you, Charmodo," Ash said, taking out its PokéBall and recalling it. "You did your best, and I'm proud of you. Thanks for giving me a chance."
Ash walked back to his Trainer's box and turned to stare down his father. He looked across the field towards him, and noticed that cocky, confident smile of his father's was back. David had the feeling the match was now his. Ash could sense that in his eyes, and knew he was going to have to give it his all if he wanted to come out on top.
"Pikachu," he said, "it's time. It's all up to you, buddy. I know you'll make me proud, win or lose."
"Pika!" Pikachu said, reassuring its trainer that it could do this. Pikachu rushed out to centerfield, eager to finally participate in this final match.
"Let me ask you something, Ash," David said. "You and that Pikachu seem really close. By any chance, was it your first Pokémon?"
"Yes, it was," Ash said. "It was given to me by Professor Oak on my first day as a Pokémon trainer, and we've been pals ever since."
"Interesting," David said. "You know, Professor Oak gave me my first Pokémon too. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised to see what it is."
David Ketchum took the final PokéBall off of his leather jacket. He smiled as he held it before him for Ash to see. Ash was wondering what Pokémon his father was first given. Was it Bulbasaur? Charmander? Squirtle? It had to be one of them, and would surely be fully evolved by now. He hoped it was Blastoise that he'd be facing next. Pikachu would have a chance then. If he was going to send out a Venusaur or Charizard, well, Pikachu could be--
David threw the PokéBall out onto the field. Ash waited to see what would materialize out of it. Slowly the red energy that had escaped the ball was taking form. A Pokémon, Pikachu's size, began to appear. Ash's jaw dropped once it has finished materializing and he realized what it was: a Pikachu.
"Y-your first Pokémon was a...Pikachu?" Ash asked.
"Yes," David said. "Same as you."
Everyone sitting around Professor Oak in the stands turned to him for an explanation.
"What?" the Professor wondered. "He showed up late all I had left was a Pikachu. Wait, that was just like Ash. Ha, what are the odds of that!"
"Figures," Gary said.
"Here we go, everyone," said the announcer. "It's Pikachu vs. Pikachu, father vs. son, with the Masters Tournament championship hanging in the balance."
"Alright, Pikachu," Ash said. "If we just believe in ourselves, he can't win."
Pikachu nodded in agreement with its trainer. It was given inspiration by Charizard and was determined to win this thing for its trainer.
"Start off with Agility!" Ash called. Pikachu dashed like lightning towards its fellow Pikachu.
"Double Team," David said. Ash's Pikachu came to a stop as David's was beginning to run circles around it, creating the illusion of multiple Pikachu. It knew it would have to pick the right one, or it would be vulnerable to attack. It twirled around, trying to locate the real Pikachu.
The attack came suddenly, from the left. David's Pikachu stopped its Double Team and slammed itself into Ash's Pikachu. Ash gritted his teeth, feeling stupid for being led into a trap like that. His father only acted like he was going on the defensive, but instead attacked when they both least expected it. Ash watched as Pikachu got back up onto it feet. He knew it was his turn to go on the offensive.
"Pikachu, Thunderbolt!" he called.
"Pikachu, use your Thunderbolt!" David yelled. Both Pikachu's cheeks began to spark as they stared each other down. They launched their attacks at the same time and watched as they collided in the space between them. They both fizzled out, neutralizing each other in midair.
"Another Thunderbolt!" David called.
"Pikachu, Light Screen!" Ash shouted. Pikachu closed its eyes and generated a shield of light in front of it, which protected it from the incoming electrical attack, which struck the screen and disappeared.
"Brick Break, now!" David yelled. His Pikachu leapt into the air towards the Light Screen, its fist extended. It flew right through the barrier, completely shattering it and continuing to come straight at Ash's Pikachu. It had no time to react as David's Pokémon connected with its fist, knocking Ash's Pikachu backwards.
"Shake it off," Ash said. "Use your Iron Tail!"
Pikachu got back onto its feet with its tail starting to turn silver in color. It turned and swiped its tail at the other Pikachu, nailing it right in the stomach area. David's Pikachu tumbled backwards. It was injured but still was able to fight. It stood up again and stared down Ash's Pikachu. The two Electric Pokémon looked each other fiercely in the eye while panting heavily. Both were growing tired but neither was going to give up. A different strategy crossed Ash's mind.
"Pikachu, use Charge," he said. Pikachu nodded its head and began to spark its red cheeks. Soon its whole body was glowing yellow.
"Don't let it power-up!" David shouted. His Pikachu tried to obey its trainer's command, dashing towards Ash's and preparing to Quick Attack it. Ash's Pikachu jumped out of the way of the attack and continued to charge.
"Keep going, Pikachu," Ash said.
"Get it now!" David screamed, growing extremely agitated. His Pikachu tried again to attack but it was moving much too slow now. It was being to tire. Ash's Pikachu kept charging. David's Pikachu made one final attempt to stop it but missed. Ash sensed it was time.
"Pikachu, finish it off with Shock Wave!"
Pikachu smiled as it finished charging. "Pika...CHUUUUUU!" it screamed as it unleashed it stored electrical energy towards the other Pikachu. David tried yelling something but his shouts went unheard over the sound of the electrical crackling of the attack. He could only watch and hope his Pikachu would dodge the attack. The electrical blast connected with David's Pikachu. Ash's tried to pour on the juice as much as possible. It was beginning to grow weary itself. Ash could see he had overloaded it.
"Pikachu, stop!" he shouted, hoping it wasn't too late. Pikachu ceased it Shock Wave. He saw his father's Pikachu, surging with electrical energy, still standing. Barely standing, mind you, but it was still on its feet. He watched as his Pikachu tried to shake off its weariness. Both trainers knew their Pokémon were at the breaking point. Each could faint at any moment. Both Pokémon tried desperately to keep from losing consciousness. Finally, one could stand no longer. It fell over to the ground, completely exhausted. There it fainted. The tournament was at an end.
"This match is over," the referee said. "The winner of the Pokemon Masters Tournament is Ash Ketchum!"
Ash didn't know how to react. He had won. He stood there, silent. He heard nothing. He didn't even hear the deafening roar of the crowd's jubilation. He was finally knocked back into reality by Misty rushing up and giving him a huge hug.
"You did it, Ash!" she cried. "You did it!"
"I...I did it," Ash said. "I can't believe it. I did it!"
"He's done it, folks!" the announcer shouted. "Ash Ketchum has won the Pokémon Masters Tournament with a thrilling come-from-behind victory against his own father! This has got to go down as the most exciting Masters Tournament finals ever!"
Ash ran to pick up Pikachu. He held the tired Pokémon in his arms, giving it a huge hug for a job well done.
"Thanks, buddy," Ash said. "I couldn't have done it without you."
"Pika..." Pikachu said weakly, though with a smile.
"No!" David Ketchum shouted from his knees, slamming his fist into the ground. "No, this can't be happening! This was supposed to be my turn! After all these years, I was supposed to win!"
He looked up to see his son standing in front of him. David rose to his feet and watched as his son extended his hand towards him.
"Great match, Dad," he said. David didn't move for a few seconds. Finally, he took Ash's hand and shook it.
"Great match, son," he said. "You are the better trainer. You deserve to win. I still do have a lot to learn about Pokémon, and what it means to be a father. Only in defeat I finally see this. Funny how it's always that way, huh?"
"Yeah," Ash said as they finished their handshake. The father and son looked each other in the eyes one last time.
"Until we meet again, Ash," David said. Ash nodded, then watched as his father turned around, stopping to pick up his Pikachu, and walked off the field into the darkness of the tunnel in front of them. Ash closed his eyes and breathed deeply. He opened them, looking up into the stands to where he knew his family and friends were watching him the whole match. They weren't there.
"Ash!" a voice shouted from behind him. He turned around, and there was his mother, running up to him and giving him a hug. "I knew you could do it. All you had to do was believe in yourself."
"I know, Mom," Ash said. "Thanks."
"Way to go, man," Brock said, patting him on the back.
"Yeah, congratulations," said Richie.
"I didn't think you could ever do it," Gary said. "I'm glad you proved me wrong once again. You're one heck of a trainer."
"Of course he is!" May said, yanking him away and giving Ash a hug.
"Good job, Ash," Professor Oak said. "I knew you would make us all proud."
"Thanks, everyone," Ash said. "I couldn't have done it without all your support, especially from one person in particular. If you'll excuse me, there's something I need to do."
Ash walked over to where Misty was standing. She was still smiling, as was Ash. He stood before her and took her hand.
"Misty," he said. "This whole experience has made me realize just how important you are to me. I know it's always seemed like I have Pokémon on the brain, but there's something more important to me that being a Pokémon trainer, and that's you. You've always been there for me, even when I didn't deserve to have you by my side. I hope you always will be. Misty...will you marry me?"
Misty was taken completely by surprise. She hadn't expected this. But, it was a good surprise. Something she had always hoped for. And now it was here.
"Of course I will, Ash!" she said, lunging forward to kiss him. They kissed for what seemed like hours, though it was only a few seconds. Finally they let up and looked each other in the eye.
"Come on," Misty said. "We've got a lot of celebrating to do."
*****
"And now," Mr. Ishihara said, "I give you Ultimate Master Ash Ketchum!"
Ash smiled as he walked up to the podium located at the center of Legends Stadium. He walked slowly, taking in as much as the moment as he could. He reached the place where Mr. Ishihara was standing, and shook his hand.
"Ash," he said, "you have shown great spirit and determination here at the Masters Tournament. You and your Pokémon battled bravely, with honor and sportsmanship, and now you will be forever remembered for your great achievement here today. It is my honor to bestow on you the rank of Ultimate Master, and present you with the Masters Tournament cup. Congratulations, Ash."
Mr. Ishihara reached behind him and picked up the bowl-shaped, silver-colored metallic trophy. Ash took the trophy by its two handles and lifted it high above his head. The crowed cheered wildly, as did Ash's friends and family. Back in Pallet Town, Tracey and all of Ash's Pokémon cheered as well. They cheered because today, they had witnessed history. They had witnessed a talented Pokémon trainer achieve his dream. But most of all, they cheered because they saw the one they loved come out a champion, a winner, a hero, as they all dreamed he one day would. Today was that day. Today, Ash Ketchum had become an Ultimate Master.
The End.