Hello everyone here's another chapter to the story. Sorry for the long time between chapters and sorry for such a long on this time. Enjoy the fic.
Ash slowly opened his eyes feeling his internal alarm clock go off. The sky was still dark with out even a hint of sunlight. He lifted his arm from around May and checked his watch to see what time it was. The clock face lit up showing 4:00 am, he knew if he wanted to prove that everything he did was worth it they needed to train like before.
"Pi, hey buddy its time to get up." Ash whispered quietly nudging his electric friend. Pikachu opened his eyes slowly before giving a small yawn and stretching out. Ash pulled and extra blanket out of his pack, draping it over May, he then wrote her a quick note telling her that he was going to train with his pokemon. After tucking the note next to her he gathered up his pokemon and they jogged off into the trees to find a place to train. The jog was a great way to warm up their bodies and stretch out before they began. The group emerged from the trees to find a small clearing that the stream passed through along with a rocky shore.
"Ok everyone this will work great for today's training." Ash said as he stopped and turned to his pokemon. "We'll start by exercising like yesterday and then we're going to start working on agility. Surge trains electric pokemon and we all know that electric types are speedy and so are their attacks." Ash said the last part nodding towards Pikachu, all knew the pokemon knew his speed and fast he could attack. They were going to work with Pikachu to help them come up with a strategy to use against Surge.
They all knew it what needed to be done so they began working hard, by lifting various objects in the clearing and once again Krookodile summoned more boulders for training. They all pushed hard testing their limits hard and striving to go beyond the edge. Ash watched in awe of all his pokemon and how strong their drive was to be the best. Their passion pushed him to go harder as well and to strengthen himself mind, body, and soul.
Back at the campsite the sun had begun to peak over the horizon line and May's eyes twitched at the light. She felt and extra weight on her, looking down she could see that an additional blanket had been placed on her. Turning her head she felt a small twang of panic rush through her body not seeing Ash next to her. May shot up to a sitting position frantically looking around to see if Ash was around and that's when she noticed a small piece of paper next to her on the ground.
'May sorry if i worried you but I'm just training and i didn't want to wake you since its early. I'll be nearby and I'll be back when the sun is up. I love you xoxo
Love Ash'
May smiled and felt her heart rate calm down after she read the note. She folded the note and put it into her pack keeping it safe. Once it was tucked away, she got up and changed for training, she called all her pokemon together. Once everyone was ready they did light exercise to warm up their bodies and then did a stretching session before beginning. May had them all start with their attack strength by focusing the attacks to increase the power in them. The pokemon aimed them at some of the boulders left from Ash's training the day before.
Back in the other clearing Ash and his pokemon had began to battle against each other not quite going full strength but hard enough to hurt one another. Ash squared off against Lucario, the two traded punches, kicks, and full body throws doing everything to take the other down. If someone were come upon the group training they would be upset or scared at the intensity they were going, but to Ash and his pokemon this was their life when they were training in the wild. Everyday it was all or nothing and without they may not have made it out of some rather precarious situations they had gotten into. Ash finally managed to get the upper hand against his aura partner and pin him to the ground, although it took just about all his skill to do so.
"Lucario you have definitely gotten better, I'm going to have to train harder or you might beat me next time." Ash panted with a grin as he pulled Lucario to his feet.
"I will win Master, just wait." Lucario replied breathing heavily as well but wore a confident smile.
Wiping the sweat from his forehead Ash smiled, "I look forward to that and stop with the master we are partners." Ash knew it was useless to say that but he still did every time. He looked around, he noticed the sun had came up and realized they needed to get back to camp. With a loud whistle all the pokemon came to a halt. "Ok everyone that's a wrap for today let's get back to camp and get ready for the day."
With that the group jogged back towards the campsite feeling accomplished with what they had done this morning. While he led the group back Ash was thinking of the morning's training and how everyone had done, he thought of different techniques they could try and of strategies they should implement. All those thoughts left his mind though once they entered the camp.
May was with her pokemon trianing for the next contest and she was training herself just as much. From watching Ash she had learned how to join in and not only train her pokemon but to help her train herself. Seeing May so focused and see the passion in her eyes made Ash stop in his tracks. It happened often to him, seeing her beauty even everyday still took his breath away and made his heart race. Ash's pokemon continued past him chuckling at their trainer as the went to May and her pokemon to help them train.
Pikachu just grinned and shook his head as he leapt onto Ash's before giving him a small electric shock. Snapping back to his senses Ash reached up and scratched Pikachu on the chin, "Thanks buddy."
"Pi pi pika." The yellow mouse replied.
"I was not drooling." Ash responded while wiping his chin to be safe. Pikachu began to laugh as he jumped down and ran towards Glaceon. Ash followed his best friend after shaking his head with a small grin. Once close enough he scooped May into his arms and twirled her in the the air making her giggle and give a surprise yelp.
"Hello beautiful." Ash said gently setting May back on her feet before lightly kissing her. "Looks like training is going good."
"Yes it is thank you." May said brightly, "How did yours go, and how early did you wake up? I didn't even feel you leave."
"It was good everyone pushed really hard today. I couldn't have asked for anything more." Ash said looking at his pokemon again. "I woke up about four this morning, back when we were out training that was about our usual time."
May thought for a second, "Wait Ash from what I seen last night how late you trained and how early you woke up, that means you were barely getting any sleep." May said looking a little worriedly at her boyfriend.
Ash could see the look in her eyes, "Sometimes you have to sacrifice a little sleep to achieve your goals." He said and then added in a reassuring tone, "But don't worry May, we took care if ourselves and made sure we all got plenty of rest."
"I just don't want you to push yourself so hard and exhaust yourselves." She said squeezing him tightly, "I want you to be strong but healthy too."
Ash squoze her back with a light chuckle, "Ok May we'll promise to make sure we take care of ourselves." He smiled at her, "Now how about we finish training with your pokemon." May smiled back as they turned back to the pokemon and continued training. Over the next hour Ash and his pokemon gave May and her pokemon tips and advice while the mock contest battled.
Two distinct grumbling sounds were heard and all the pokemon turned to look at both May and Ash. As if they were both one mind the sheepishly rubbed the back of their heads and in sync said, " It must be breakfast time." Looking at each other blushing lightly began to laugh as did the pokemon.
"May if I start cooking would you mind feeding the pokemon?" Ash asked as he turned towards the fire pit.
"Sure Ash." May said cheerily, "Plus I really like your cooking."
While Ash busied himself with preparing the food while the fire began to get hotter, May started passing out everyone's food bowls with Lucario's help. May had told him to sit and relax but he wouldn't listen, being just as stubborn as Ash, May just giggled and shook her head. Just as they finished filling the last bowl May heard Ash call out, "May breakfast is ready."
May thanked Lucario for his help before going and sitting next to Ash. She looked at the bowl Ash handed her a little confused, "Ash what is this?" She poked it with her spoon inquisitively.
Ash let a light laugh, "Its a porridge that is full of nutrients for energy and it's really feeling. It'll keep you full most of the day, I learned how to make it when I was spending time in Rota." Ash explained, "The chefs there wanted me to stay full for a longer period of time after seeing how much I could eat and they knew once I left I would only be able to carry limited food supplies."
Now it was May's turn to laugh, "Well at least they found a way to fill the Ash black hole." May teasingly said. Ash opened his mouth to argue back but he knew she was right so he joined her in laughter.
They finished eating and cleaned up after themselves before returning their pokemon, obviously besides Pikachu, Lucario, and Glaceon. Once they had everything in order they went back to the road and continued on their way to Vermillion City. As they walked May had questions rolling in her head and she was trying to figure out how to ask them. Before she could ask one she heard Ash's voice, "Is something on your mind May?"
She looked up at his bright smile her eyes briefly landed on the scar crossing his eye. "I was wondering about you training from when you left and your training now."
"What would you like to know?"
May linked her arm through his as she figured out how to word her question, "When you were gone was your training like what I seen yesterday?"
"To an extent it was, but most times it quite often more intense. We always picked areas that we wouldn't disturb to many pokemon because we could clear out large areas of trees, rocks, or whatever was in that particular area. Though when we finished, a part of our training was to repair the area the best we could before moving on. Once we reached Mt. Silver it became a daily battle to reach the top, the wild pokemon there are something else. You could almost consider them vicious," Ash paused for a moment after seeing the look of shock on May's face. "not like crazy vicious but just very territorial and many had never seen a human until me." He added reassuringly.
"Ok I think understand so yesterday wasn't quite as intense then."
"Right, once we reached the peak we kinda lightened out trianing a bit so we wouldn't burn ourselves out or have an injury we couldn't treat without a Pokemon Center." Ash said. The rest of their walk to Vermillion City was filled with Ash describing certain types of trainings they did and May wondering if she could utilize a few of them for her contest training.
They entered the town just past midday and made their way to the Pokemon Center to heal their pokemon and book into a room. After getting their pokemon back from Nurse Joy the pair went to there room to drop off their things. Ash opened the door for May and the pokemon, Pikachu and Glaceon imedantly jumped on on of the beds to relax on the soft blankets. May went over the the window opening it to allow some fresh air in while Lucario sat cross legged against the wall. While the others were doing this Ash was busy trying to figure out his Poketech, after a few moments and fidgeting with the screen he found what he was llooking for.
"What you doing Ash?" May asked smiling at her boyfriend struggle with it. 'Technology was never his strong suit." She thought to herself.
"I'm trying to figure this damn thing out to send a message." Ash replied with his eyes focused and narrowed on the screen. "Ha got it dumb thing anyways." Ash said triumphantly.
"Who are you sending a message too." May inquired, knowing he really only ever talked his mom, Professor Oak, or some of their friends and he'd call them.
"I'm letting Lt. Surge know that I'll be there tomorrow morning so he'd better be ready." Ash said looking up after he hit send.
"Oh ok that makes sense, but are you sure you're ready? I mean it's only been a day and half of training, I know you and your pokemon are strong but is it enough?" May asked honestly.
"We'll be ok. We're just a tad rusty, but we'll do one more training session this afternoon before getting some good rest before tomorrow." Ash said with determination in his voice and smile on his lips.
Hearing his confidence and passion May knew that she had nothing to worry about and that Ash and his pokemon would be amazing. "Ok then, let's go train then." May said in a cheery tone.
The pokemon stood up along with their trainers and left the room and walked outside. May was a bit perplexed when Ash turned them away from the trianing area and more towards the trees.
"Why are we going this way?"
"The training fields are great but sometimes going into the trees and woods will completely change your thought process. Remember when I was training for my rematch with Brawley and we used the island in different ways?"
"Yeah I especially remember you using the waves to practice dodging." May said fondly reminiscing their younger days.
"I've adapted that type of training to work anywhere in a sense. For instance today we'll train by having Lucario and Krookodile attack from the trees hidden from view. It only gives us a split second to dodge or counter." Ash explained as the found a nice clearing that was a way from any buildings.
"I get it, doing this will help battle against electric attacks that are typically faster than other types." May said.
"Right on the nose." Ash replied before giving her a gentle kiss.
May watched from a safe distance as Ash and his battle team went to the middle of the area and got ready. They closed their eyes and settled their minds waiting. May was a bit startled at how fast it began, Lucario using his natural speed began firing Aura Spheres at random while Krookodile used Stone Edge while using dig to pop up at random spots.
Venusaur being the biggest in the group would parry most the attacks with his vines or with Razor Leaf, occasionally he'd use his powerful short legs to jump high to dodge. Scrafty on the other hand being small and agile almost appeared to be break dancing to dodge the in coming attacks once in a while he'd punch the attacks away but he felt more comfortable dodging them. Tauros was surprisingly light on his hooves and could easily maneuver his body around the attacks but he had no issues with holding his ground and taking them head on pushing through them. Donphan would roll up and speed into the attacks and he'd unroll to launch himself in the air to avoid them occasionally. Sandslash was having a bit of harder time being so nee but was holding his ground well. Using Rapid Spin he would bounce attacks off of him and then bring his claws out to break up on coming attacks. Both May and Glaceon were wide eyed watching Pikachu, he would seemingly disappear when anything came close to him then suddenly an Iron Tail would shine brightly as it cut through the attack.
May had gotten nervous seeing Ash stand with his pokemon in onslaught of in coming attacks, but the feeling lessened seeing his actions. His aura could vaguely seen flickering on his hands and feet as he moved around the attacks and when he'd hit them away from himself. She knew he could handle himself but it still worried her that he could possibly get injured.
Ash called out to his pokemon with encouraging words or warnings to help their training go further. It had been close to thirty minutes since the began and everyone was beginning to show minor signs of fatigue. Seeing and feeling it Ash shouted out above the noise, "Ok everyone that's a wrap for today!"
The last of the attacks faded away and everyone came together in the clearing to go over their training, "Alright guys that was a great training everyone did an amazing job." Ash looked at the pokemon around him smiling, "Sandslash I am so proud of you and how far you've came in just a short amount of time. As for the rest of you, you all looked amazing as ever and I'm beyond proud of each and everyone of you."
May stood next to Ash listening to him speaking to his pokemon, while doing so she began to think of away to use this type of training to help in a contest setting especially the speed factor of the attacking pokemon. She had done that a bit since she and Ash had began traveling together, she utilized his training methods to boost her contest performances. May could feel that this was her and Ash's year to finally come out on top and show everyone what they're made of. Smiling happily she looked up at Ash after be finished speaking with his pokemon she asked, "Are you ready to go back, clean up and relax Ash?"
"You bet, a little rr is just what we need before this battle. This one is a big one for us, the last time we faced Surge it turned out a bit ugly. It made me question quite a lot, but in the end it taught me that evolution doesn't always mean power." Ash said kneeling down to scratch between Pikachu's ears.
"Chaaaa." Pikachu squeaked happily.
"Well then its like they say, you learn more from failure than from victory." May said wrapping her hand around Ash's. They turned and headed back to the pokemon center to rest Ash's pokemon and rest themselves as well. Once they got there Nurse Joy took his pokemon to give them a check up and May decided it was a good idea to have hers get a in depth one too.
"Ok your pokemon should be done in about a half hour." The pink haired woman said with cheery smile.
"Thank you so much Nurse Joy." Both trainers replied.
"Its my pleasure." With that she retreated to the back to start her work.
Ash and May decided since they had a little free time they would go shopping for some supplies and restock their food supply. May was busy looking at some dresses for her contests, when Ash had an idea. While she was distracted Ash slipped outside to a small cart that they had passed on their way in. He talked to the lady running it scribbled some on a receipt and handed her a few bill's.
"Ok that should be everything, we'll take care of everything for you. Enjoy the rest of your day." The cart lady said happily
"Thank you very much. Enjoy the rest of your day as well." Ash said. He quickly slipped his way back into the shop just as May was finishing up.
"Ok Ash I'm all set." May said holding a few bags. Looking down she checked the time, We've got everything bought and our pokemon should just be about done."
"Sounds good May, let's head back, get everything put away, and get out pokemon." Ash said as he took the bags from May so she didn't have to carry them.
"Ash you don't have to do that."
"I know but I want to." Ash said as the exited the shop. Once outside May was able to reach up and give Ash a soft kiss, even being a small one it still sent shivers down both their spines.
"Thank you for be such a gentleman Ash." May said sweetly.
The truth is Ash never was much a gentleman in his younger days, sure he was respectful and all but he never really went out of his way. For May though, he'd go past the edge of the universe for her. "No need to thank me May, it's my pleasure. I'd do anything for you."
May couldn't fight back the small blush on her cheeks, she couldn't figure out how she got so lucky. They walked together just enjoying each other's presence and feeling each others emotions that where emanating from one another. Just as the couple walked through the center doors Nurse Joy was bringing out their pokemon. Pikachu immediately jumped up to his place on Ash's shoulder, Lucario let himself out of his ball and Glaceon did the same. May and Ash chuckled at their pokemon's action but knew they wouldn't trade them for anything.
"Thank you very much Nurse Joy." May said.
"You are very welcome. I enjoy checking pokemon and especially pokemon such as yours, they are in tip top shape and very well cared for." She said with a bright smile.
The group bid her goodbye as they went back to their room to put away the things they had bought and then they headed back outside. They found a nice shaded area and they let all their pokemon out to relax in the open air. May and Ash layed down under a tree and spent some time talking about where they were going after Vermillion City and where May's next contest was.
"Let's see." May was looking through the contest hand book at the dates. "It looks like the next closest one to us is at Maiden's Peak."
"Perfect that's not too far from here." Ash said.
They spent the next little while bouncing ideas off each other for May's upcoming contest. They finally said it was time to head back as the sun began to slowly sink towards the horizon line. They returned their pokemon besides the obvious few and then went back to their room.
Ash quickly jumped in the shower and got cleaned up for the night. He hurried so May would have some extra time to get ready and relax. Once he stepped back into the room May gave him a light kiss before closing the door behind her.
A few minutes after she closed the door a light knock sounded from the room door.
'Perfect timing.' Ash thought as he opened the door. The person at the door handed Ash a bag full of items and Ash thanked them before closing the door. He quickly but quietly set everything up so May would be surprised. Just as he finished the last touches May opened the door and gave a small gasp.
Ash wanted to do something special for May not for any reason in particular but just because. He'd ordered in a nice pasta meal with candles and even a bouquet of flowers on the table. Seeing the shocked look on her face, he smiled and walked over to her.
"May I love you and I wanted to surprise you with someone know you'd enjoy." Ash said.
She couldn't find words for a moment, she pulled Ash into a hug and held him tight. "Thank you Ash this is so amazing and sweet. I love you so much."
The couple smiled at each other before their eyes locked and the leaned in sharing a deep passionate kiss. The couple's pokemon that were out smiled at their trainers happy moment before the let them have some alone time and went to the small balcony to enjoy the evening sea air.
Inside May and Ash enjoy their meal and shared stories and future plans and just enjoyed the romantic atmosphere. Ash was completely lost in May's eyes listening to her talk and enjoy the shivers her sweet voice sent through him. Ash's voice to May was almost hypnotic and she was swept away in his words. When the finished eating the candles had almost completely melted down and the sun had finally went fully below the horizon. They cleaned up their meal and call the pokemon back inside. They decided to watch a bit of tv before calling it a night, May came over and snuggled up against Ash and wrap her up in his arms.
Not even an hour into this May had fallen asleep and breathing lightly in Ash's arms. Smiling he slowly lifted her into his arms and carried her to her bed. Glaceon jumped off the bed allowing Ash to lay May down and cover her with the sheets.
Bending down giving a light kiss on the forehead he whispered, "Goodnight May sweet dreams." With that he turned off the tv and crawled into bed with Pikachu curled up in his pillow. Lucario once again chose the floor sitting against the wall to sleep. Soon the room was full of the sounds of peaceful slumber.
The sun hadn't risen yet, but Ash was fully awake lying in bed thinking about his gym battle. His nerves had began to get at him and he was starting to think up strategies and possible scenarios in his mind. Deciding he needed to clear his head he quietly got up and started getting dressed to go for a short jog. May opened her eyes hearing some rustling from the other side of the room.
"Ash what are you doing up this early?" May asked looking at the clock on the wall.
"I couldn't sleep and my mind is getting to me. I'm going to go for a jog just to clear my mind." He walked over and lightly kissed her head and continued, "You can go back to sleep I won't be long."
"No it's ok Ash, I want to go with you. It'll do us both some good to smell the sea air and it gives our pokemon a chance to clear their heads too." She started getting out of bed and reaching for her pack. Ash couldn't argue with her logic he always did feel more at ease on the early morning air whether it was sea, mountain, or country air. She slipped into the bathroom to change and Ash quickly finished getting ready himself. Soon they were outside in the cool morning air, they released their pokemon did a quick stretch before jogging down the road.
Not really having a planned route they went wherever their feet carried them. They soon found themselves standing at the edge of the beach looking across the sea. Very faint colors began to show meaning the sun was on it's way, they paused there to just relax and let their minds slip away into the peaceful moment.
Ash spoke in a calm even tone, "This, this feeling right here is calm. This is the emotion you should carry into battle, it clears your mind and makes your judgment more sound." Ash closed his eyes, opened his arms breathing deep and long. "Remember a battle is just a battle, once it's done its over. You can't change the outcome but you can learn from it."
Turning around he faced all the pokemon behind him and May by his side he continued, "Win, loose, or draw you'll always be cared for here with us and we will always be proud of you." Sandslash took the world to heart, he had been so nervous for the upcoming battle not wanting to let Ash down. He looked at the other pokemon and they all wore a relaxed facial expressions and had very calm postures. Seeing all that calmed his mind more and he suddenly felt what Ash was talking about, the calm feeling and empty mind. He was ready for anything today no matter what happened.
The group all stood together watching the sun slowly rise above the sea and its vibrant colors reflected off the water. They looked into the horizon knowing that as they were all a family nothing could ever stop them. The group once again began to jog down the street Ash guided them back towards the Pokemon Center. After reaching the doors May and Ash returned their pokemon and went back to their room. Once getting changed, cleaning up their supplies, they checked out and made their way to the gym.
Ash stood before a building with large lighting bolts rising from the sides and the doors flanked on each side with the same. Ash looked at May and smiled, "Its time to do this."
He pushed open the door open and called out, "I challenge this gym for rights to win the Thunder Badge!!"
"Well, well the baby finally showed up." Came a deep voice with a chuckle. "I was beginning to think you'd chickened out."
"As if I'd ever let that happen." Ash retorted. May looked across the battle field and was shocked to see the hulk of a man that was talking. Having heard stories from Brock, Misty, and Ash she never really believed the size of him.
"Wow now that's a very pretty lady you have standing next to you." Surge said winking in May's direction.
May took a small step closer to Ash, "Thank you, but I'm taken." She replied wrapping her arm around Ash's.
"Hmmm, seems you've grown up then. Although I kinda figured you'd would've ended up with the spitfire from Cerulean." The Lt. said raising an eyebrow. Seeing the look on the couple's faces he began to laugh, "Let's get this battle under way baby."
Ash shook his head and smirked, "Alright let's do this." Ash said pumping his fist. Looking down at May, "Don't worry about a thing May, and you're the only one for me." Ash added with a wink.
"Good lucky and I love you." May said with a light kiss.
Ash and Lt. Surge each took their position on each side of the field and the referee stood in the center platform, "This will be a full six on six battle between the gym leader Lt. Surge and challenger Ash Ketchum. The battle will be over when either sides pokemon are unable to battle. Are the rules clear?" Both trainers just nodded as they eyed each other. "Then let the battle begin!!"
Lt. Surge tossed his pokeball into the air and a flash of light revealed an Electivire who whipped his tails in anticipation of battle.
"Alright it's time to do this. Donphan I choose you!" Ash called out as he threw the pokeball out. Donphan landed on the ground causing a small tremble and bellowed loudly.
Ash jumped straight into action not giving Surge to chance to get the upper hand, "Donphan go now Roll Out!!"
The armor pokemon bellowed as he curled up taking off with immense speed. Covering the distance in short period of time slamming hard into Electivire, the eclectic type didn't have any time to defend himself and was sent flying across the ground. Pushing himself back up glaring at the ground type he flexed his arms ready to retaliate.
"Electivire don't let that pip squeaked push you around, hit em' with Ice Break!!" The thunder bolt pokemon launched himself forward. His arm glowed brightly with a Brick Break before it became coated in ice from Ice Punch.
"Donphan dodge it now!" The ground type quickly rolled himself into a ball and sped away from the incoming attack. Electivire's arm slammed hard into the ground creating a small crater, Donphan quickly unfurled ready to counter.
"Ok end it now, Donphan hit him with Head Smash." With impressive speed ground type charged across the field with glowing energy surrounding his head, colliding with Electivire's chest. For a moment nothing happened then suddenly a small explosion happened and Electivire was slammed into the wall behind Surge. Everyone but Ash, Pikachu, and Lucario stared in shock at how quickly it was over.
"Electivire is unable to battle." The referee called.
"You called us out and wanted our best. Now you'll see what we can do." Ash calmly said. "Good work Donphan, now return." A red beam of light pulled him back to his pokeball.
Surge wouldn't show it but he was a little worried, his pokemon by no means were slouches but with only two attacks and the round was over. None the less he was going to keep battling till the end. "Alright then, this is going to be interesting. Electrode battle time."
The round electric pokemon appeared on the field with electricity crackling around his body ready to battle.
Ash smiled, "Its time to show them what you're made of. Sandslash I choose you." In a flash the mouse pokemon clashed his claws together ready to show off his skills.
Surge's voice rang out, "Electrode hit fast, Roll Out!" With blistering speed the ball pokemon shot off towards Sandslash.
"Counter with your Roll Out." Ash called to his pokemon. Spinning quickly to speed he races across the meet the attack head on, the two rolling pokemon collided mid field. There was a brief stalemate before Sandslash was thrown back, he hit the ground once before bouncing into the air. He dug his claws in to prevent himself from falling, standing upright he prepared to defend the oncoming attack.
"Sandslash dodge until you can see and opening." Ash called trying to come up with a plan. Electrode was moving so fast Sandslash could barely avoid being hit let alone land a hit.
Surge chuckled, "Seems you don't have to speed to catch up with me baby. Electrode keep it up and we'll knock em' out."
Ash racked his brain to think of options then it hit, " Sandslash Sandstorm!" The young ground type jumped out the rolling attack and was able to cross his claws summoning a massive sandstorm. Finally have a moment to catch his breath he regained his senses and focus once more. Not only did the storm give him cover but he also gained a speed boost from it due to his sand rush.
Ash called out over the noise of the storm, "Sandslash Dig!" His claws flashed briefly before disappearing under ground. Electrode shift nervously not being able to see and taking damage from the storm Suddenly he felt the ground beneath him rumble, before he could react Sandslash landed the super effective attack dead on.
Surge watched his pokemon fly out over the Sand Storm and gritted his teeth. This was getting out of hand and he needed to take control. "Electrode put an end to the storm use Rain Dance!" A blue light flashed and rain poured down settling the sand and revealing Sandslash. "Now's your chance, Electrode Hyper Beam!!"
Ash called to Sandslash as the bright beam of energy charged towards him, "Sandslash hit it head on with Focus Blast!" Concentrating on his mental energy he formed a light blue ball of energy before throwing it has hard as he could towards the Hyper Beam.
Watching from the side Lucario carefully analyzed the battle to better help his teammates with future training. "Hmm smart move Master." He said quietly.
"What do you mean Lucario?" May asked watching the two attacks collide.
"Hyper Beam is a normal attack while Focus Blast is a fighting attack." Was his reply, as he eyed the two attacks fight for dominance.
"I see fight has and advantage over normal." May said. Her eyes widened as the power energy beam began to push forward.
"Don't give up Sandslash, use another one. I believe in you." Ash cheered to his pokemon. Feeling the strain from the battle on his mind and body, Sandslash pulled his mind together one more time. He threw another Focus Blast to join his first halting the Hyper Beam. For a moment nothing seem to happen but suddenly an explosion rang out and a thick cloud of smoke covered the field.
Everyone tried their hardest to see what was happening inside the smoke. After a few moments the cloud began to clear. Once it was gone they could see Sandslash panting heavily covered in scrapes and dripping with water from the rain storm. He was struggling to stay up right and the water was only piling on more damage. On the other end of the battle field Electrode wasn't in much better shape he'd used a lot of energy in the last attack.
Both trainers knew that neither pokemon would last much longer and knew it was time to end it. Ash was about to call out to Sandslash but before he could the ground type flinched before falling forward to ground.
"Sandslash is unable to battle." The referee called out.
Ash quickly went to pokemon's side and scooped him up, "Sandslash that was an amazing battle and I am so proud of you. Now take a good long rest and we'll make sure your hard work wasn't for nothing." After returning his pokemon Ash stared at the opposing pair he chose his next pokemon, "Venasaur I choose you."
The seed pokemon landed heavily on the ground making his presence known with deep roar. "Let's wrap this up. Venasaur use Vine Whip."
Ash chose a slightly weaker attack knowing it was that was needed to end the battle. Green vines shot out the flower on Venasaur's back and hit the ball pokemon hard knocking him out.
Surge was pleased to have taken one of Ash's pokemon out, but was slightly uneasy about the current pokemon staring him down. Think of his options he tossed his next poke ball in the air, "Magnezone let's shock em' into defeat." The electric/steel pokemon whirled and spun its magnets ready to battle.
"Ok then, Venusaur they've definitely got speed but that doesn't matter start strong. Use Sleep Blizzard!!" Venusaur released a powerful Petal Blizzard that whipped around the battlefield but it shimmered differently. May figured it out as soon as Ash called the attack, Mixing Sleep Powder into the attack made it spread farther and faster. Magnezone might have been fast but with no where to run it took the combo attack head on. Once the blizzard had subsided the magnet area pokemon was on the ground sleeping soundly. Even Surge's loud commanding voice couldn't wake his sleeping pokemon.
Smiling Ash called the next attack, "Venasaur use Earthquake."
"Saurrrr!" The fully evolved grass starter called out as he raised himself onto his hind legs before slamming heavily to the ground. The force of the attack even made Lt. Surge stumble slightly and it tossed Magnezone about until swirls replaced it eyes.
Once more everyone was dumbfounded at the power and skill of Ash's pokemon. "I've had Venasaur since I began, so that being said his power is top level." Ash said calmly, "Good work Venusaur now return. Scrafty I choose you."
The hoodlum pokemon flipped through the air before landing ready for battle. Surge pulled out a poké ball that looked slightly aged staring at it for a moment he tossed it high up, "Run em' into the ground Jolteon."
Landing in front its trainer the lightning pokemon crouched down and barked signifying she was ready for battle. "Show em' really speed old friend. Use Quick Attack!!"
Ash didn't even have a chance to blink before Scrafty was pelted with what seemed an invisible object. Jolteon's speed was unbelievable, using his aura Ash could hardly locate the eeveelution. He gritted his teeth trying to think of something as his pokemon was being beaten around.
"Scrafty use Iron Defense." He needed to buy some time to come up with a counter attack.
Surge laughed with a deep rolling laughter, "Like your Venasaur, my Jolteon has been with me since the beginning. Her speed is top notch and next to impossible to defend."
'That's it.' Ash thought, "Sracfty use Scary Face!" Having only a moment to get ready Sracfty pulled his face into a haunting image causing Jolteon to stumble and loose speed. "Alright good job. Now hit hard use Drain Punch!"
Energy surrounded the dark/fighting types hand and he scored a direct hit and regaining a little of his health, "Ok good now send her flying Brick Break." Swinging his glowing arm upward striking Jolteon hard sending her into the air. "Scrafty after her an use Dragon Claw."
Launching himself into the air Scrafty's hands glowed with dragon like energy, his eyes focused on the target. Surge's voice rang out, "Jolteon Double Kick." Flipping herself over mid air Jolteon brought her hind legs straight into Scrafty's midsection sending him hard into the ground. Landing ready for battle Jolteon smirked seeing the opponent struggling to stand.
"Come on Scrafty you can do it!" Ash called to his pokemon. Ash's voice boosted Scrafty and he pushed himself upright and flexed is arms ready to finish the fight. "Alright I knew you could do it. Scrafty let's finish it Focus Punch!"
Drawing in his mental focus the hoodlum pokemon sprang across the battlefield with his fist glowing. His eyes burned with passion and his heart beat with love for his trainer.
Surge smirked, "Ok Jolteon they want to end it let's do it, Wild Charge!" Sprinting wildly at Scrafty, coated in an electrical field bearing her teeth wanting to win for her friend. The two attacks met in the middle and the power exploded sending both pokemon flying. Ash and Lt. Surge both looked on with concern as their pokemon hit the ground. Both pokemon lay still for a moment before they slowly began pushing themselves to their feet.
"Sracfty are you ok?"
"Jolteon can you keep going girl?"
Both pokemon finally struggled to their feet and glared intently at each other, before sharing a nod and collapsing to the ground. "Both pokemon are unable to battle." The referee called from the side of the arena.
"Scrafty return. You did an amazing job get a good rest." Ash said after returning his pokemon.
"Jolteon take a good rest and I couldn't have asked for a better battle. Thank you." Lt. Surge looked at Ash and smiled. "Ash that was great but this isn't over yet, my next pokemon is just as strong as my last. Ampharos let's do this!"
Ampharos emerged on the field with a bright flash of electricity and you could see that it was in peak shape. Ash smiled looking at this powerful pokemon, "Ok Tauros I choose you!"
The wild bull pokemon stomped his hooves on the ground and gave a loud bellow while whipping his tails in anticipation.
"Ampharos start things off with a Mega Punch." Sprinting across the ground with its fist drawn back, Ampharos lunged at Tautos hitting the pokemon straight on. May was shocked that Ash didn't call to dodge or attack, he just stood there but then she seen him smile.
"Tauros send it back Horn Attack." Tauros' horns shone bright as it tossed its head back flinging Ampharos rolling backwards across the ground. "Now Zen Headbutt." A pale blue light surrounded the bull's head as it charged at the light pokemon.
"Ampharos get up and dodge it!" Surge said, but it was no use Ampharos had flinched because of the on coming attack. The psychic attack hit Ampharos and once more sent it rolling, though this time it was able to get its feet under it and remain standing. "Ok it offense time. Ampharos use Thunderbolt."
"Ampharosssss!" The light pokemon cried out as it sent a powerful bolt of electricity at the normal type. Tauros acting out of instinct dove to the side evading the attack but was unprepared for the follow up Thunderbolt. The electric attack hit Tauros square in the face and brought it to its knees.
"Tauros are you ok?" Ash asked worried about his longtime pokemon. The wild bull pokemon shook its head and stood up and bellowed loudly once again. Ash pumped his fist, "Alright it's our turn now, Tauros use Bulldoze!"
Raring up on its hind legs before stomping the ground causing debris to bounce into the air. Tauros charge forward in a golden enenergy and began to collect debris and bits of rock with it. The super effective attack caught Ampharos full force and began to pummel him around before burying him in a pile. Adding a Stomp attack for extra measure Tauros charged back to Ash's side of the battlefield ready to attack if needed. Ash could see Tauros was getting winded and that Ampharos was a force to be reckoned with was preparing a counter attack in his mind.
The pile up rubble shuddered and Ampharos erupted from it showing definite signs of battle but still ready to fight. "Good job old friend now hit em' with everything you've got Thunder!!"
"Tauros don't give up, you can win this. Use Hyperbeam!" The two attacks met in the center of the field each trying to push past the other. Surge looked confident that he would win this bit that look soon faded as the Hyperbeam cut through the center of Ampharos' Thunder. Ampharos was knocked to the ground and this time it didn't get up.
"Return Ampharos. You did great today thank you." Surge said to his fainted pokemon. Looking across to Ash who just returned his Tauros, "Well Ash you've done well but now it's time to face the best. You might have the advantage right now but we won't do down without a fight. Raichu it's battle time!"
Ash knew Raichu was going to be Surge's last pokemon and he was ready for it. Looking down to his starter, "Ready to do this bud?"
"Pi pi chu pika!" Pikachu squeaked.
"Haha, alright then. Pikachu I choose you!" Pikachu ran to the field dropped to all fours with his cheeks crackling with electricity. Raichu eyed his opponent ready for this rematch readied himself into a battle position.
"Raichu show that pip squeak some power, Thunder!" Raichu let loose a massive Thunder attack at Pikachu.
Though neither Pikachu or as reacted, the attacked neared the electric mouse and Ash finally spoke, "Pikachu ground."
The attack hit hard and Surge smirked knowing even an electric type would take damage from a hit like that. When the light faded a surprising sight was seen, Pikachu stood there unmoved and seemingly damage free. A little frustrated Surge yelled out, "Raichu again Thunder and don't hold back!!"
This attack was even bigger than the last, but once more all Ash said was, "Ground." Raichu ended his attack puffing slightly for the amount of energy used. He felt confident just like his trainer that this attack worked, but once again Pikachu was there looking unharmed and smiling.
"Its our turn Pikachu. Use Quick Attack!" Ash said. In an instant Raichu was sent flying back after being hit by Pikachu whom it seem just teleported across the ground. Ash smiled, "Don't give them a chance. Electro Ball!"
Flipping in the air Pikachu sent a ball of electricity speeding towards Raichu who was just getting back to his feet. The attack scored a direct hit once the again the evolved electric type was sent to the ground.
"Raichu you can do it, don't let this little baby beat you up. Show them your power Rollout!" The mouse pokemon folded itself into a tight ball and with suprising speed smacked into Pikachu with the effective attack. Raichu was able to turn on a dime and strike Pikachu before he landed causing further damage.
Knowing that if this kept up Pikachu would be out of the battle. "Pikachu bat him away, use Iron Tail!" With a metallic look Pikachu swung his tail just as Raichu came back around. Like a baseball being hit the rolling electric type flew through the air into the wall. "Alright good job buddy, now use Volt Tackle!"
"Pikapikapika...pi-ka!!!" Pikachu cried out as he charged at Raichu.
"Raichu counter it. Use Thunder Punch!" Raichu ignored the damage he'd taken and focused on sending electricity to his fist. Pikachu leapt into the air ready to strike just as Raichu swung his fist. The electric attacks collided and sent both users tumbling backwards. Pikachu was the first back to his feet after shaking his head to clear his eyes. Raichu on the other hand gingerly pushed himself up showing definite signs of battle.
Surge called an attack before Ash could open his mouth after seeing Raichu standing again. "Come on Raichu you can finish this. One more time Thunder!!" Raichu prepared himself to attack but then flinched from all the damage he had taken.
Ash saw this and made his move, "Pikachu quick let's end this battle Thunderbolt!"
"PIIIKA-CHUUUU!" Pikachu cried out unleashing a powerful bolt of electricity. The attack was right on target and after a few moments Pikachu cut the power. Raichu stood for a moment before swaying slightly then falling to the ground with swirls in his eyes.
"Raichu is unable to battle. Lt. Surge is out of usable pokemon, that means the challenger Ash Ketchum is the winner." The referee said bringing the battle to a close.
Ash cheered as he ran towards Pikachu, picking up his faithful starter, "I knew you'd do it Pi. Good job." Pikachu squeak happily as he hugged Ash back.
Surge sadly returned his fainted pokemon. "Raichu you did everything you could and I am very proud of you. Rest well and we'll win the next one." Walking over to Ash he smiled. "I told you to bring your best and you did. I'm disappointed my team and I lost but we lost to an amazing opponent. So with that being said I present you with the Thunder Badge." Surge handed Ash the badge. "Although I still think you should evolve your baby Pikachu." He added with a chuckle.
Pikachu scowled and hit Surge with a small current of electricity. Laughing Surge just ruffled Pikachu's head, "It'll take more than that to hurt me, I'm practically an electric type at this point."
Ash laughed at the exchange, before going his pose, "Alright we got the Thunder Badge!"
May giggled as she walked to her boyfriend, she loved that even as much as he grown Ash was still the same Ash. Wrapping her arms around him May congratulated him, "Ash that was an amazing battle. I was so amazed at your techniques I've never seen anything like it."
"She's right Ash. Your pokemon are amazing and your battle smarts are something that I've never seen. Keep it up and make sure you train hard and you'll win for sure this time." The electric gym leader added. Seeing an odd look on Ash's face he explained more, "I'd like to think that I helped shake you and make you realize your potential."
Ash understood what he meant now and was thankful, "Well this time we won't lose no matter what. Thank you for making me see what I had done." Fire burned in his eyes, he knew as long as his friends supported him and with May by his side nothing was impossible.
May and Ash bid farewell to Lt. Surge and headed back to the Pokemon Center to have Ash's pokemon healed and change out their teams. Once the door closed behind them Surge put his pokemon into the healer machine and went straight to his office. Closing the door tightly he went to his desk and picked up his phone. He found the number he needed, after dialing the numbers he waited for an answer.
"Well to what do I owe the pleasure of speaking with Lt. Surge?" Said the voice on the other end of the line.
"I wanted you to know that I just wrapped up my battle with Ash Ketchum."
The man became focused and sat upright listening intently, "How did it go?"
"Let's say if he continues training in whatever way he did before I battled him you could be in some trouble. It has only been two days since I spoke to him and he almost shut me out. I knocked a few out but I get the feeling one was newer than the rest." Surge explained.
"Hmmm that's very interesting. We'll see how he is once I face him. Thank you for your help with this." The man replied. "Oh and remember no one is to know we've talked and who I am. You know what I'm capable of."
Surge didn't need telling twice. Even with all his experience and strength the man made him shiver slightly. "You have nothing to worry about your secret is safe with me."
With that the conversation ended and the man on the other end sat quietly in a darkened office. "That's very interesting. Hopefully the boy can live up to the expectations."
Once again sorry for the long chapter. I had some issues with this one and couldn't figure out where to cut it so I left it as one big one. As always thanks for reading. Any comments, concerns or suggestions just let me know. Until next time.
