"Beedrill is unable to battle! Haunter wins! Which means that victory goes to Cardin Witchneer!"

"Haha! That's right!" The smugness coming out of Cardin's mouth was unbearable. "Another step closer to victory!" He celebrates while a creature of pure purple, consisting of only a face and hands, also begins to laugh.

"So he has a Haunter, huh?" Ed said as he took his dex and aimed at it.

"Haunter, the Gas Pokémon. Because of its ability to slip through block walls, it is said to be from another dimension."The dex said.

('Honestly, is a bit creepy how they both look so much alike right now.') Ed sweat at seeing them both laugh like that.

Shaking his thoughts in order, the black-haired boy focuses himself on the screen, showing the match cards. Cardin was number two and his face advanced to the next round. Looking at his picture, he was number 7, which makes it the fourth match. ('Hmm...For this match, I should have Ekans fight, she is the only one to haven't experience many battles.') That match with TR grunt wasn't a satisfying exp.

If only he could know the current level of his team. At least he could try and see how much improvement he should be focusing on.

It was an embarrassing time. When he first got his first Pokemon game, he made the rookie mistake in focusing on only his first Pokemon, which was Charmander. Long plays of leveling up were in store for him, to the point he almost cries. To make matters worse, it took him two years to learn that mistake.

('On the bright side, I at least don't act like a dense idiot.') Sorry Ash, but for most of your journey, even Ed wanted to bonk his head hard.

"Round Four! Trainers, to your positions!" The sound of the announcer's call brought him back to reality.

Putting away his phone, he stood from the bench he was resting in and began to walk to the arena. His eyes search for his opponent, finding him...talking with Cardin?

They both motioned with one another before the bowl-haired boy gave something to the trainer, who gave him a thumbs up. Cardin left with a smile that spells 'trouble'.

Narrowing his eyes, Ed knew something was about to happen in his match. ('I better be careful...This guy is too pitiful…') If what they said about him being the heir of that Company, chances are that he was raised in that kind of environment.

...

..

.

"We are now about to start our fourth match!"The announcer spoke up while sitting in the commentary section with Brook's father, "Tell us, mister Flint! Any thoughts you wish to share?"

"Well...as a Gym Leader, to take on trainers that wish to win a badge is my job, but I must also judge them in the arena," Flint spoke with a hand under his chin. "All trainers need to show every Gym leader their experience in the battle with both command and trust with their Pokemon. Is the proof of their bond."He looks at the two trainers that were getting ready and waiting. "From the last few battles, we have seen their quick thinking on the battlefield, showing both their growth as Pokemon and Trainer."

"Wise words of Pewter City's Gym Leader, ladies, and gentlemen!"The announcer said, receiving screams of excitement, especially from Flint's wife and children!

"Kyah! My man is a poet!"

"Papa is so cool!"

"Thank you, my family! I love all of you too!"

Yep...We sweatdrop now.

Ed could feel his face sweat at the change of attitude from the man. Then, again, Brock's dad is a family guy.

He then places his attention on the arena, eyeing his opponent who was smiling in confidence.

"Are both trainers ready?!" The referee asked, earning a nod from Ed and the other Trainer. "Then! Begin!"

"Ekans! Go and fight!"

"Hitmochan! Enter the arena!"

Two Pokeballs sours in the air before opening, coming out of their cages, Ekans slithered in the air before landing on the ground while hissing. "KASSSS!"

Along with her appeared a tan, humanoid Pokémon with five blunt protrusions on top of its head, a structure resembling pads over its shoulders, wearing a light purple tunic and kilt, as well as red boxing gloves and light purple boxing shoes. "Chan!" It began to shadow boxing around.

"Hitmoncha, eh?" Ed thought as he took his Poké-Dex and aimed at it.

"Hitmonchan, the Punching Pokemon. Its punches slice the air. They are launched at such high speed, even a slight graze could cause a burn."

"Alright. Ekans." Ed swung his arm forward, "Go and use Bite!"

At his command, the snake charges forward, her body sliding through the ground before jumping forward with her mouth open, showing her four tiny sharp teeth.

"Hitmonchan! Use Protect!" The trainer command and the Hitmochan cross his arms together, where a green orb surrounds his body. Ekans crashes into it, which sends her flying backward.

Ekans recover quickly as she slides to a stop in front of Ed. "Protect?" Ed mumbled in surprise. ('That's strange. Hitmonchan isn't supposed to know that kind of move...unless he was taught to it.') "Enkas! Poison Sting! Let's go!"

The snake Pokemon opened his mouth and began to shoot needles from it.

"Hitmonchan! Use Vacuum Wave to blow them away!" The trainer command.

"Hit!" The Punching Pokemon pulled his fist back, "...Monchan!" And began to throw punches forward, creating airwaves that intercept Ekans attack.

"Now! Go and use Fire Punch!" Hitmonchan's right fist ignited into flames before dashing forward.

"Ekans! Dodge it!" At the last second, the snake pokemon jumped away, just as Hitmonchan's flaming fist punched where she was standing.

"Don't let it recover! Fire Punch!" The trainer exclaimed as Hitmonchan's left fist ignited in flame and began to throw it.

"Ekans! Don't let it touch you!" Ed exclaimed and his pokemon responded by starting to dodge each fist coming at her.

"What a start!" The announcer said as he watched Ekans start dodging Hitmonchan's fiery punches. "Hitmonchan is full of vigor and power! His Fire Punch is going faster and stronger with all his might! But Ekans isn't slowing out; on the contrary! Its speed and reflexes are giving a challenge!"

"Hmm, very interesting." Flint began to comment, "Hitmonchan's speed is far above an Ekans' but this one is moving twice as fast than the average Ekans." He let a smile form on his face, "Clearly, Ekans trainer has trained it well."

('Of course, I did.') Ed thought as he remembered the last few days training with Ekans. ('Her speed is her second-best trait. I need it to improve it since she knows that move I been waiting to try.')

From the side of the arena, Celeste watched the battle with interest. "He must have captured it on the way here, and its speed is this much in so little time?" Her expectations of him are getting higher and higher.

"Oh come!" On the other side, Cardin slammed his fist on the railing, "What are you doing?! It's just a tiny snake! That Pokémon should be able to crush it already!"

Hitmonchan continues to throw his attack, and Ekans dodge them. But it was shown that they both were getting tired by doing the same action.

"Hitmonchan! Punch the ground beneath Ekans!" The trainer commanded, and Hitmonchan threw his fire punch into the ground.

The result caused a small explosion that caught Ekans by surprise and sent her into the air. "Ekans!" Ed shouted in worry as he saw her flying very high.

"Oh! Hitmonchan just sent Ekans into the air! There's nowhere to run now!" The announcer...announced.

"Perfect! Get ready to use Focus Punch! Once it's close, let it reap!" The trainer clenched his fist.

"Hit!" Hitmonchan's right glove began to glow, focusing its power on it.

"Ha! That's more like it!" Cardin shouted in pride. "This match is already over!"

"Hmm, what would you do now, Ed?" Celeste mumbled to herself in curiosity.

With Ed, he began to think, fast! ('Shoot! Focus Punch is Hitmonchan's strongest move. If it hits, Ekans is done for!') Looking at her, Ekans began to go down. ('But what can I do? She's in the air and...Wait, that's it!') An idea came to him, remembering his days on Wrestling Camp back in his world. "Ekans!"

"Kass?" The Snake Pokémon look at her trainer, their eyes meeting each other. She read the meaning behind it, seeing the trust he has in her. "...Kass!" She nodded to him in understanding before positioning herself straight.

('Oh?') Their telepathic conversation was caught by the twin pigtail-black-haired girl. ('Do you have a plan of some sort?') She asked in her head.

"Hitmonchan! Go!" The Punching Pokémon saw Ekans come closer to his position, so he threw it forward.

('Not yet.') Ekans was getting close to the punch. ('Not yet!') Her face was just five feet away from it!

('NOW!') "Ekans! Do a screw roll!" Ed command.

Just as it was getting close to the fist, Ekans coil like a screw, dodging the punch as it went right through the gap it made.

"Huh?!" The trainer and Cardin shout in disbelief.

"Use Wrap on its arm and don't let go!" Ed said and Ekans body closed, capturing Hitmonchan's arm. "Use Bite on its shoulder!" The serpent slid behind her opponent's back neck before biting on its shoulder hard.

"Chan!" Hitmonchan yells in pain from the attack.

Ed snapped his finger before pointing forward, "Now! Pull!"

"Kass!" Ekans hissed as she pulled her body, which resulted in Hitmonchan's red glowing glove to head to its face. The Pokemon couldn't do anything but stare in shock as his fist crashed into his face hard.

On the side, Celeste's eyes widened in amazement. ('Incredible…! I have never seen that kind of move before.') In her years of battle, she has never seen that kind of move before.

"U-U-Unbelievable!" The announcer stood from his chair with a shocked expression, "Out of nowhere, Ekans not only dodge Hitmonchan's Focus Punch, but it also turned the table around and used its move against him!"

"A surprising move," Flint commented in surprise, although his closed eyes didn't show it. "While evading an attack in mid-air is very rare, I have never seen such a technique before."

Hitmonchan's glove slid off, revealing his sour and hurt face.

('Yes.') Ed clenched his hand into a fist. ('Because Focus Punch was still active, it did damage to him.') Taking his glasses out and putting them on, he commanded his Pokemon. "Ekans! Move and pull!"

"Kass!" With a hiss, Ekans pulled Hitmonchan's box back to his face. It slid off, and she pulled it again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

And again.

By this point, the result was getting obvious.

Not long, Hitmonchan dropped to his knee like timber. His face bruised and in pain, but not unwilling to be defeated. You could say that the spark of a warrior was inside him.

As expected of the Pokemon that resembles Mike Tyson.

"Get up, Hitmonchan!" The trainer was now sweating as he saw the Pokemon struggle to stand.

"Ekans! Poison Sting!" Ed said, intending to finish this fight.

The snake stopped biting, took a deep breath, looked at the face of her opponent, and released.

*Boom*Boom*Boom*Boom*Boom*

Tiny needles began to explode in contact with the fighting type. A cloud of dust was left at the end of Ekans attack, hiding Hitmonchan's face.

Moments later, his body tilted backward and landed on the ground. His expression is on full display.

"H-Hitmonchan!"

"Hitmonchan is unable to battle!" The referee states after seeing the unconscious face of the Pokemon. He raised his left hand at Ed, "The winner is Ekans! Which means that victory goes to Edgard Martinez!"

The crow cheered in joy at the result, "Amazing! Out of nowhere, Ekans takes the victory in a swipe! We have our underdog here, folks!" The announcer said in excitement.

Ed kneels and allows Ekans to slide to his shoulders. Where she began to look at the crowd. Seeing her expression, the black-haired boy chuckle. "Not bad, girl." Ed praised his friend, patting the top of her head. "Not bad at all."

"Kass~" Ekans was enjoying the attention all right.

Ed returned to the sideline, seeing the disbelief expression of the other trainers at what just happened. The moment he reached the sideline he was welcomed with the curious expression of Celeste very close to her face, "What was that?" she asked.

"Uh, too close there, Celes." Ed sweatdrop at the hint of curiosity through her red eyes.

"Ah," She also realized that she was close to his face. She quickly recomposes herself, "Forgive me, I don't usually do this." Being the reform lady she has represented, this was definitely out of character. "However, that movement you did with your Pokémon...I have never witnessed such an attack before."

At that, Ed smiles, "That's because it wasn't an attack, rather a technique." He answered as Ekans moved around his shoulder, "Since little, I have learned to memorize all moves that can help me achieve steps to victory."

"All moves?" Celeste found herself intrigued at that. "So you have prior knowledge of these 'moves'?"

"Was born with them." Ed smiles as a fond memory of his family appeared.

"You Goddamn cheater!" The black-haired boy's expression turned sour as he began to sound around, seeing Cardin's confused/angry expression. "What in the world was that?!"

"What now?" Ed asked.

"That...thing you did!" Cardin had the option expression of trying to understand what happened. "Those moves! That way of moving! There's no way your stupid and weak Pokémon can do that by itself!"

Ed felt Ekans hiss in anger at being called weak. "You're very petty, aren't you?" He replied with a sigh as he decided to call Ekans to her Poké-ball before it collided his neck hard.

"Petty!?" That made the bowl-haired mad. "How dare you say that I, heir to the Witchneer Company, would be petty over a coward like you?!"

"Coward?" Before Ed could speak, Celeste walked forward, sporting a hard expression. "Pray do tell, Cardin. Where exactly has Ed been cowardly?" Her question made the Heir silent. "If you have nothing to say, how about you focus on your next match? I'm sure your next match should be your current concern."

"...True." Cardin calmed down before regaining his smug attitude. "While it's obvious I will win, I guess to see what my opponent will offer is a must." He gave a stinky look at Ed before leaving.

"...What is wrong with him?" Ed said after the heir was gone. "How great does he think he is?"

"It's probably the environment he was raised in," Celeste said with a sigh, "Cardin's father has always shown to have superior power. That's why most of his Pokemon are the best. His training method is rough, but the results are acceptable."

"So I can see," Ed took a seat on the bleachers and took out a Poké-ball. Opening it, Pikachu came out and landed on his lap, sporting an annoyed expression. "Are you mad because I put you on your Pokeball?"

Pikachu looks away with a 'hmmp!' His hat slightly spun.

"You were going to attack Cardin. I had to put you away." Ed pats its hat, ruffling it a little. "If you do that, we might get disqualified from the tournament." Pikachu inflated his cheeks at that. "Besides, it would be better to face him face-to-face, right?"

"Pika." Pikachu rolled his eyes.

The black-haired girl found herself chuckling at this display. "He doesn't like being inside that Poké-ball, doesn't he?"

"Can't blame him," Ed said as he took his glasses off and began to clean them. "While it makes traveling a bit easier, the thing is still a cage." He said, remembering a certain show where two experts gave their thoughts of a fight between Pokemon and Digimon. "Although it has been adjusted to everyday life, it is sometimes a bit disturbing for them."

Celeste looked at him in surprise at what he said. "...Amazing way to think." She had the expression that said she never considered that.

"I learned what I could," Ed replied as he put his glasses back on. "So, considering the match-making, if things go like this, you and me might face each other at the final." He said as he looked at the panel. Although a few battles are left, if Celeste wins her fights, which were obvious since she had executive perfect battles, she would face him at the semi-finals.

"True that." Celeste said with curiosity, "Are you excited to face me?"

"I'll be lying if I wasn't interested in fighting someone who is considered the next Elite." Ed laughed.

"...Of course."

Ed felt his eyes blink before looking at the gothic girl, seeing momentarily a look of sadness on her face before switching into her happy expression to him.

"Then I hope you can give me a satisfying battle." She blinked in confusion when he saw the raised eyebrow on her. "Is there a problem?"

Ed simply raised his fist and extended, surprising her. "Let's give these people a match to remember." He said with confidence that he will meet her at the final.

"...Well, this is a first." The black-haired girl found herself chuckling at this, "I never had anyone offered me a fist bump before."

"That's because they have fear at how someone like you would react." Ed said, Pikachu quickly jumped into his head, "This is me telling you that I don't care who you are; once you enter the battlefield, you are just my opponent. One I will fight with everything I have to offer."

"Pika! Pi!" Pikachu pumps his fist in the air.

Celeste looked at him, once again, in surprise. Her red eyes stared at his black orbs. She suddenly found her snickering before covering her mouth to stop the chuckling. "You continue to amaze me, Ed."

Ed couldn't tell at first, but when he felt her fist bump into his, he thought he sensed some genuine joy from her.

It made him happy.


(Later on)


The rounds continue like so, and Ed felt his child self happy at seeing so many Pokémon Battles.

He saw so many of them fighting, so many attacks, and so many trainers giving commands to their teams.

Of course, in the end, there were winners and losers.

Cardin managed to secure his victory with his Haunter and Rhydon. His Haunter was very sneaky, able to attack from afar with his Shadow Balls, while his Rhydon recovered some of his pride in here, taking down his opponent in three moves.

Celes also secured her winning spot, having used her Dewgong in all her matches, showing its capabilities with its good defense and speed. Celes guides it like a puppet, in a good way. Their synchronization was nothing but perfect, as expected from someone who was dubbed an Elite 4 candidate.

As for Ed-

"Ekans! Poison Sting!"

"Kass!" The snake vomited needles of venom at a Raticate, who couldn't do anything but take the hit before dropping on the ground.

"Raticate is unable to battle! Ekans wins!" The referee stated before signaling his flag at Ed, "Ekans is the winner! This means the winner of this fight is Edgard Martinez!"

The crowd cheers as Ed walks to the sidelines, Ekans smothering her face on his cheek yet again. "Okay! Okay! I get it! You did great!" He chuckled at the big affection the snake was giving him. He reached where Pikachu was waiting for them, the electric mouse jumping into Ed's shoulders and congratulating them both.

"Sorry I haven't used you yet, buddy." Ed scratches Pikachu's ears, making him moan a little. "I want to wait to use you in the finales since you are my strongest Pokémon right now." His Thunder attack is not only peculiar but powerful as well.

"Pika!" Pikachu understood what he was saying.

"Ladies and Gentlemen!" The announcer spoke, catching everyone's attention. "We have finally reached the semifinals of this tournament!" Cheers of excitement burst through the Gym. "Without further ado! Let us see the semi-final matches!" Upon the screen, the faces of Ed, Celes, Cardin, and another trainer appeared before they flipped and began to spin randomly.

After a few spins, the matches were decided.

First Match: Celeste vs John

Second Match: Cardin vs Edgard

Ed felt a sweat drop falling to the ground and breaking like if it was glass. ('Of course, I'm fighting the pitiful, childish, arrogant fucker. What's there ever any doubt?') This was so cliche.

"There you have it, folks! From these two matches, two contestants will be advancing to the final round to determine the winner of this tournament and the one who will earn the Boulder Badge!"Ed looks to the side to see that Cardin had also looked at him, smiling like the cocky bastard he was. "Who will come as the winner!? Let's not wait anymore! First Match trainers! Get in the ring!"


(With Celes)


Celes stood from her bench and made her way to the arena, "Well then. Let's go and start this match." She said to herself as she made her to the battleground. As she made her way, trainers began to move out of her way, either in fear of what would happen if they get in their way, or admiration and respect for the young girl.

('Here we go again,') Celes thought as she tried to ignore the stares and comments.

"Look at her! She is perfect in every way!"

"Her aura is different from other trainers."

"Man, we should have given up when we chose to fight her."

"My chances were over when she came. I'm just glad I didn't lose to her."

The more she heard those words, the more she felt...annoyed.

Ever since she entered this life, her parents were so glad to have her. They show her everything about this strange world and their Pokémons, and she was fascinated. Even more when she got her first-ever Pokémon to take care of.

She wanted to learn everything. That's why she studies and spends time with her Pokémons. Before she knew it, she was recognized as a genius in the Academy she goes to, winning battles thanks to her knowledge and passion. She was known as a candidate to the Elite 4; the strongest trainer in all of Kanto.

It made her happy and her family was too.

But every action brought consequences.

Her fame made her a terrifying opponent for others. Her parents wanted more from her. More fame. More expectations. More satisfaction to make them happy. To make a profitable life.

Celestia Mercury became the prodigal trainer...and her feelings were ignored.

At first, she didn't mind the attention and lack of it. But now...just look around! So many people stay away from her and talk behind her back. It was infatuating for her, this isn't what she wanted!

She wants to journey into the world! To experience many things and see so many Pokémons! Not to just stay at the Academy and home forever! And she will not continue those online classes/battles that advanced her into other rounds with only quick thinking!

That's why she decided to make a bet with her parents, who have her, and please forgive her for calling this out, 'chain' her down by parental love. They are too dependent on her, despite having excellent jobs.

It took a lot, but she managed to convince them for a simple bet.

And this tournament is all part of this bet.

"Celes!"

The black-haired girl stopped in her tracks when she heard someone called out to her. She looks behind to see Ed with his Pikachu and Ekans on his shoulders.

('What is he doing?') She blinked her eyes when he gave her a thumbs up.

"I'll see you at the finals!" He said with the confidence of him truly meeting her at the finals.

Those words; she heard them loud and clear. Not understanding what he just did at first until she noticed that everyone around her went silent. Looking at the side, she was surprised to see everyone staring at the boy in disbelief and awestruck.

Their silence...lift some of her inner weights off her shoulders.

She looked at Ed, who was ignoring everything, even the glare from Cardin, as he focused on her. His Pokémon cheered for her as well, wanting her to face their master.

She couldn't help but smiled. His words were real; he doesn't see her as a celebrity, just an opponent he will face off.

To not be treated like that...For how long was it that she was waiting to feel like that?

Celes spun around and continued walking, enjoying the silence from all other trainers as they focused on the black-haired trainer. ('That boy should have focused on himself only…') She entered the arena, ready to face her opponent. ('Because I came here to win.')

"And here she comes, ladies and gentlemen!" The announcer said as the light appeared over Celes, "She is well-known in the Kanto region as an upcoming star Trainer! A dark beauty that has caught the attention of all! Someone who has the potential to become the Next ELITE 4! And at a young age! Give it all for the Queen of Darkness; Celestia Mercury!"

She grabbed her Poké-ball and grew it, "Arcanine!" She threw it

In front of her, appeared her most beloved partner. A large canine with an orange pelt marked by jagged black stripes. It has diamond-shaped ears with beige insides, black eyes, a round, black nose, and two pointed teeth protruding from its upper jaw. Its head, muzzle, and chest are covered in shaggy, beige fur, except for two oval sections around each eye and ear. Long tufts of fur grow behind its elbows and around its ankles. "AAROOOO!" It roared out, the air around it shook the stadium.

Celes watched as her opponent, with fear in his eyes, threw his Poké-ball and chosen Pokémon. "Now then. Entertain me, young man." She said in a sweet tone.

Her awaited match with that boy is just around the corner.

...

..

.

('There we go.') Ed thought as he noticed the spirit of Celes bursting in confidence. He had noticed the burden that she was getting from those trainers.

He knew what she was feeling. Not entirely the story of why, but he knows when people see others differently in their strength, skills, and talent. That shit is a heavy burden.

He has experienced it before inside and outside the ring.

"HEY! DON'T IGNORED ME!"

Ed felt his eyes turn blank as he could feel Cardin's rage as he made his way to him. Pikachu and Ekans were glaring and growling/hissing at the incoming Heir. "What now?" Ed asked.

"Oh, you know what you did!" Cardin pointed his finger accusingly yet again, "What was that about 'seeing you at the finals'?! You give me some nerves to say that as our rematch is coming!" He began to smirk like an evil douchebag, "Besides, what makes you believe you can face Mercury? You and her are in different worlds! Just like how I will show you with my strongest Pokémon!"

"Huh. Look at that; you finally admit that you made a mistake to face me while holding back." Ed remarked with an uncared tone. Although he is curious about the strongest Pokemon he has, since he has acknowledged he has strong Pokémons.

"Keep mocking me, punk! We'll see who gets the last laugh later on!" With that, Cardin left to sit back on a bench.

The black-haired trainer let a sigh as Ekans slitter into his head, rubbing her underbelly with his hair in comfort. "Arrogance is both a dangerous and blindfull emotion." Ed looked at his team, taking Natsu's poké-ball out. "Listen, you three, especially you Natsu. Cardin was going easy on us because of arrogance. He is coming full force, so whoever he chooses must be strong." Natsu wiggles the ball in understanding. "I'm saying this because I don't want either of you guys to drop to that level; no matter what. And do not look down on your opponents."

Never, even if they look weak, underestimate your opponent.

All three of them nodded in understanding. Having knowing full well that they did not want to be like that human.

"That been said." Ed looked at the arena, seeing Celeste about to finish her match. "I guess I should go with no-hold bars as well." He looked at his electric companion. "Ready for a round, Pikachu?"

"Pikachu!" Pikachu fist into the air, ready for battle.

...

..

.

In the arena, a canine covered in black fur and bones fell to the ground with swirly eyes.

"Houndoom is unable to battle!" The referee raised his flag at the victor. "Arcanine is the winner. Which means that victory goes to Celestia Mercury!"

"And that's all folks!" The announcer proclaimed in excitement as everyone roared with him. "With a display of power and elegance! Celestia Mercury heads to the finals!" The twin-drill girl bowed to everyone before making her way to the benches. "That was amazing if I did say that myself! Opinion, Mr. Flint?"

"Other than that she has proven to be an excellent trainer and outstanding fighter." Flint commented with a smirk. "She and her Pokémon had shown that they are not just talk. I can see why she is considered a candidate to the Elite 4."

"I agree. And now! Let us go to the second round of the semifinals!" The announcer said as the light shined at the right side, "Coming from the town of Lavender, he is the son and heir of the Boss of Witchneer Company! His Pokémon are nothing but powerful! And he is here to prove that his smile isn't for show!" Cardin made his entrance, still smiling like a prick, making the crowd go wild. "Let's welcome the one and only, Cardin WITCHNEER!"

"Thank you! Thank you! I know; I'm awesome!" Cardin laughed as he received the cheers.

"And his opponent," The light focused on the left side, "Coming from Pallet Town. This boy has become a mysterious sensation with his matches, showing extraordinary display with his Pokémons! He is the diamond on the dirt, the underdog of this tournament!" Ed made his way in, Pikachu on his shoulder, "He came here to win, and proved his talent isn't for show! Please welcome Edgard MARTINEZ!"

Ed and Pikachu waved as the crowd cheered for them. He reached his position, eyeing Cardin with a serious look.

"Are both trainers ready?" The referee asked, earning a nod from both boys. "Then choose your Pokémon!"

Cardin didn't wait any longer as he took a special poke-ball, it was blue and had two red bumps out. "I hope you are ready to feel true power with this Pokémon! Trynanitar! Come on out and win!"

Tossing his Great Ball, what came out was a large, bipedal creature with a green, armor-like hide covering its body. Two pairs of pointed teeth: one in the upper jaw and one in the lower. Several spikes of varying size protrude from the back of its head, neck, and shoulders. Both sides of its chest, the center of its back, and its knees have two triangular holes. A gray, diamond-shaped patch of scales covering its belly, and a smaller one on its back. It has three claws on its feet and hands. A ring of spikes surrounds the tip of its tail.

"RAAAAAAAWR!" Tyranitar roared as it stretched his body.

Ed, for his part, was surprised to see this powerful Pokémon for the first time. He took out his dex and searched for information. "Tyranitar, the Armor Pokémon, and the final evolution of Larvitar. The strength of this Pokémon can cause mountains to crumble, forcing the earth to change landscape." it said.

('Well, this is problematic.') Ed thought as he glared forward. ('I knew he was going all out, but to go this much over one lost? Truly the pinnacle of pettiness.') He looked at Pikachu, knowing that his most powerful attack won't work with this dinosaur.

"Hey…"

Ed was going to ask if he wanted to still go, but just looking at him, he got his answer.

Pikachu was looking straight ahead, his black eyes squinted in slight seriousness. Ed could feel his tiny fingers pressing hard on his shoulder, and see the small sparks on his red cheeks. "Pi…" It mumbled out, making Ed assume that it was scared to face it.

But it will not back down.

"...Are you ready, buddy?" Ed asked Pikachu.

"Pikachu!" The electric mouse nodded, his hat tilting a bit. With that said, Ed extended his arm forward, allowing the little guy to run over it before jumping into the arena.

"HUH?!" Cardin almost felt his jaw hit the grounds hard. "What the Hell?! Are you stupid or something!?" He was getting angry at the choice of Pokemon. "What the hell are you doing choosing that weak Pokémon! Are you actually mocking me again?!" Here he is going at full power and this guy dares to insult him by choosing that Pikachu with a stupid hat?!

"Don't know what you are talking about." Ed replied while putting his glasses on. "You said you are going with your strongest; I merely just answer back with mine's."

Cardin growls internally. It's like this guy is trying to prove he was better than him! HIM! The best trainer in his Father's company and the Academy he went to!

He will make sure to put him in his place!

On the stands, Celes watched in surprise at the black-haired's choice to use Pikachu in this battle. "What are you thinking, Ed?" Tyranitar is a rock-type Pokémon, not only does it have the advantage over Pikachu, electric attacks won't work on it. "I know you are smart and unpredictable, so what are you planning?"

"Oh! What an interesting and surprising choice!" The announcer shouted as the camera zoomed in on the screen, "Cardin has chosen his Tyranitar to battle, but Ed has chosen Pikachu. Now, what is going on in this trainer's head? Any thoughts on this, Flint?"

Flint looked at the arena with a serious look (not like anyone could know since his eyes are like the Chinese) before answering, "Well...It's clearly a bad matchup. Rock-types are effective against electric-type Pokémons. However, look at that Pikachu," Flint made the motion to zoom in on Pikachu's eyes. "He is ready to fight a giant. I don't know what his trainer is thinking, but this little guy just made his resolve unquestionable."

"Let the semifinal match...Begin!" The referee commenced the battle.

"Tyranitar! Flamethrower!" Cardin ordered, Tyranitar took a deep breath before expelling a powerful flame from his mouth.

"Pikachu, dodge and Quick Attack!" Ed command, Pikachu running forward before sidestepping the flame attack. He shot forward at super-speed, leaving a trail of white.

"Move that flamethrower down!" Cardin commanded as Tyranitar began to bring the stream of fire to the ground.

"Jump!" Ed said as Pikachu leaped over the flames, going straight at the giant dinosaur Pokémon and slammed against its face. "Hold his face!" Before it was out of reach, Pikachu quickly grabbed Tyranitar's face and hugged her, blocking her view and causing her to panic.

"Tyranitar! What are you doing? Get him off of you!" Cardin shouted in anger.

Tyranitar tries to take the yellow mouse off his face. He tried to grab him, but his arms were too short and chubby to reach. He violently shook his head, making Pikachu almost be sent flying if he didn't hold tight.

"Pikachu! Growl, full power!" Ed commanded.

Pikachu let a devastating scream out, Tyranitar widened his eyes before it was forced to cover its ears as it began to swing uncontrollably, as the attack hit him hard.

"Get him off already!" Cardin ordered.

On one of the shakes, Pikachu couldn't hold on anymore and was sent flying away. He managed to readjust in mid-air, landing on his four feet.

"Go and use Rock Slide!" Cardin commanded, only for his powerful Pokémon to not follow his order. "Trynatinar! What are you doing?! Attack!" Still didn't respond.

Seeing it unresponsive, Ed attacked. "Pikachu! Quick Attack!"

Pikachu covered himself in a white aura before blasting forward in a trail of yellow and white. He slammed against the light-green Pokémon, staggering back.

"Keep it up, and use your time to attack!" Ed said. Pikachu began to move around like the Flash, circling Tyranitar while constantly hitting it from different directions.

"Woah! What a surprise turn of events!" The announcer couldn't take his eyes off the match, watching Pikachu attack without stopping. "For some mysterious reason, Tyranitar has stopped listening to his trainer and Pikachu is taking the advantage with constant hit-run tactics!"

Celes watched with curiosity at why Tyranitar didn't listen to Cardin's command. Until she realized the reason, surprising her a lot. ('...I see, what a clever plan of attack.') Honestly? That idea was amazing and clever to perform. A good choice to make.

She wasn't the only one who figured it out, "I believed Tyranitar didn't listen because of Pikachu's Growl." Flint began to show why he was a Gym Leader. "While Growl lowers enemies attacks, is still a sound based move. Been too close to its ears, Tyranitar's eardrums must still be ringing loud, blocking momentarily any command his trainer might have said."

"Wow! To use that move in that way?! What a brilliant plan!"

The stadium stares in excitement and amazement at seeing a small electric Pokémon taking on a rock-type Pokémon, and momentarily having the upper hand.

Cardin, after hearing the Gym Leader's comment, was having none of that shit anymore. "Stop embarrassing me and attack that squirt with Rock Slide!" He commanded.

This time, Tyranitar managed to hear, "Rawr!" His eyes glow as several rocks floated before being flung forward.

Pikachu stopped his attack and focused on dodging, jumping backward and away from the rock shower. He landed right in front of Ed, breathing heavily at the constant use of Quick Attacks. "Pikachu! Breath in and out! Regain focus!" The lighting tail mouse began to breathe in through his nose and exhaled from his mouth.

('Regain your breathing. You must restore your lack of strength and bring the air that was out of your lungs.') Ed thought as he watched Pikachu do the quick technique he thought of him and the others.

One that has helped him in the middle of the ring back in his world.

"Tyranitar! Dark Pulse!" Carding ordered. The Armor Pokémon vomit out a trail of dark circular waves.

"Dodge!" Ed ordered.

Pikachu quickly stopped his breathing and jumped out of the way of the attack, which hit the ground and created a small dust cloud, covering Pikachu and losing sight. "Pikachu! Are you okay?!" He heard Ed asked.

"Pika!"

"Rock Slide!"

Pikachu widened his eyes when he suddenly saw a rock blast through the dust and slam hard against him, a direct hit. "Pika!" He yelped as his body crashed on the floor and slid right in front of Ed's feet.

"Oh! An effective and direct hit from Tyranitar!"

"Pikachu!" Ed shouted in worry as he kneels to his friend. "You alright?!"

The electric mouse grunt in slight pain by the attack, but surprisingly stood up, adjusting his hat. "Pikachu!" It cried, telling him that he was okay.

"Use Rock Slide again! And keep it up until you bury him!" Cardin shouted, Tyranitar summoned more floating rocks and began to throw them forward.

"Quick Attack! Use it to dodge them!" Ed ordered, making Pikachu dash in a trail of white, evading getting crushed by the multiple rocks.

As Pikachu kept dodging the rocks, Ed began to notice the remains of the rocks. His eyes widened in realization at what Cardin was doing, "Pikachu! Get out of there!"

The mouse heard him, but it was too late to do anything as another rock landed on the ground. Pikachu panicked as he noticed that he was trapped inside a cage of big boulders, with no escape.

"Ha! Caught you right where I want you!" Cardin laughed. "Can't believe you fell for my trap again! And here I thought you would have learned from before."

Ed ignored the taunt and narrowed his eyes at the wide range of the make-shift cage. ('He said again, so this is the same tactic from before.')

"Would you look at that! Tyranitar has trapped Pikachu in one spot! Nowhere to run!" The announcer said with shock and amazement, "So this is one of the Witchneer tactics; Predator's Catch."

"Trap your opponent with nowhere to run and deliver a powerful attack from above." Flint summarized the tactic, "A very forward plan, but effective nonetheless."

True to Brock's father's words, Cardin attacked, "Now use Rock Throw!" Tyranitar placed his hands up and began to summon a large boulder.

Celes had placed her hand on the railing and held it tight in expectations. ('This is a tactic that has helped Cardin win many battles before...What will you do this time, Ed?') She remembered back to Viridian City, where the black-haired boy's Charmander shocked her by using a Flamethrower into the ground and propel into the sky to escape the cage trap.

But what is he supposed to do now, she wonders?

Back on the field, Ed's brain was working fast to think of a way to get Pikachu out. ('Come on brain, think! What can Pikachu do to get out of?! Can't have him use Quick Attack again. Iron Tail is a recent move, and I can't trust it yet. And Thunder is out of the question.') He could see Pikachu getting nervous by the growing rock.

Is this it? Is this how he is going to experience his first defeat? At the hands of an arrogant Heir? Is his promise to Celes going to be broken like this?

...

No! This isn't over!

Ed took a deep breath and concentrated. Getting panic won't do shit to him. Pikachu needs help from him, his trainer...He will have an answer!

Because Red, Ash, Gold, and all those trainers had one when things were bad! If they can, so can he!

*Shing!*

Ed's vision suddenly surprised him when everything turned black. Not darkness, but shadowed everyone, "What the?!" He yelped to himself as his pupils looked around, not only seeing darkness, but also blue light on everyone.

"Throw it and finish this match!" Cardin shouted, knowing that he was going to get his revenge.

Tyranitar took a page out of Goku's Spirit Bomb as he sent flying the large boulder directly at the center where Pikachu was.

"Pika!" Pikachu began to panic, desperately wanting a command from Ed.

"Pikachu!" The electric mouse turns back to see Ed with his glasses glowing light-blue from behind, surprising him. "Thunder!" He commanded.

"Eh?" Cardin, Celes, and the entire stadium ask.

('What is he doing? Why would he used an electric attack?') Celes thought in utter confusion.

"What the hell are you saying?! Are you so desperate to win that you'll use a distavantege attack?!" Cardin said in confusion and anger. Was this moron guy desperately trying to go down with a fight that meant nothing?

Confused but trusting his words, Pikachu began to spark his red cheeks, "Pikaaaa!" Just like before, a yellow circle appeared, but this time, it was above Pikachu.

"What the?!" It's no surprise that the announcer and the spectators were not expecting that. "Does Thunder always look like that?"

Flint shocked everyone by doing the first thing that not even Brock has done, widened his eyes in surprise.

The giant rock was already above Pikachu, who was focusing to channel his electricity. Once it was ready, Pikachu let it out, "Chuuuuuuuuuuuu!" It cried out as a lightning bolt shot out of the circle and headed straight up.

On impact, the lighting clashed against the giant rock, where it began to struggle and throw sparks of electricity out.

"What the hell is this stupid struggle?!" Cardin scoffed in annoyance. "Not only are you embarrassing yourself, you are making your weak Pokemon fight a losing battle! Just accepted defeat-"

*Crack*

The bowl-haired boy shut up when he heard something getting crack. Wide eyes, along with Tyranitar and the entire stadium, he watched in disbelief as the Thunder attack began to push the rock away, along with making yellow light pop out through some cracks that began to form.

"No way…" Celes muttered in uttered astonishment at what was happening.

"GO! PIKACHU!" Ed screamed in exploding determination.

"Pikaaaaaaaaa!" Pikachu was filled with determination as he began to pour more power on his attack, his eyes turning golden along with his thunder mark glowing. "Chuuuuuuuuu!" With a screamed of power, the electric thunder began to crack the rock in more places before-

*BOOM!*

Exploding into a huge dust cloud, the air blew away everything and forced everyone to cover their faces from it. Once they could all recover their sight, they witnessed the battlefield partly covered with bits of rocks and dust. Tyranitar growled as it glared at Pikachu, who was out of the cage and was glaring back.

"S...S...SUGOI!" The silent atmosphere was broken by the excitement from the MC as the crowd went wild. "WHAT AN AMAZING FEAT! Pikachu just blew that Rock Throw into pieces with Thunder! What a display of power from a tiny Pokémon!"

"It would seem we have underestimated Pikachu's power." Flint commented.

On the battlefield, Ed found himself breathing heavily, finding it strange that he felt like he had run a marathon. ('What the hell? I feel so tired and I haven't done anything at all…') his eyes, who had returned to normal, turned to Pikachu, who was breathing slightly. ('I knew Thunder was strong, but it took a lot from him...Next attack must end everything.')

"You…You cheater!"

Ed looks at the other side, seeing Cardin with a disbelief/angry expression. "What in the world was that?! How did your stupid, pathetic, tinh Pokémon destroy my powerful Tyranitar's attack?! There's no way a weak lighting like that could overpowered that move! You must have cheated!"

Ed was going to ignore that, but the way his eyes were looking at him told everything. "...I see." He found himself speaking those words before looking at Pikachu. "Buddy!" Pikachu looked back in confusion. "It's time to finish this." Ed stated.

Pikachu nodded and looked at the Tyranitar, adjusting his gifted hat before getting ready to attack.

"Finish this?!" Cardin felt a blood vessel getting pop. "Like Hell I will let you! Tyranitar, Hyper Beam!" He ordered.

The Armor Pokémon began to summon energy on its mouth, loading up the most powerful Normal-Type move.

Ed narrowed his eyes, ('I had a feeling it knew that move. What should I do?') He began to think hard. Pikachu can dodge the attack if timing it properly, but he has been running for too long. ('Should I risk it? Should I put him in danger even if we may have a chance to win?')

"I trust you, boss!"

Ed stopped and froze. His ears could have sworn he heard a squeaking-male voice. ('What the Hell?! Was that?!') He didn't have time to think of that voice.

"Fire!" Cardin commanded while pointing forward. Tyranitar began to 'firin mah lazer'.

Acting quick at the incoming attack, Ed pulled another trick from his bag. "Pikachu! Counter it with Iron Tail!"

"You got it, Boss!"

Ed widened in shock at hearing that squeaking voice again. Before he could do anything, he saw Pikachu staring to sprint forward, his yellow thunderbolt tail changing to a metal texture.

Pikachu jumped and swung his Iron Tail against the Hyper Beam, clashing hard and starting a struggle for strength.

One that Pikachu was having a hard time struggling.

"Finish this cheater! Show him how powerful I am!" Cardin laughed out loud, Tyranitar pushing power through his Hyper Beam as it began to push Pikachu back.

That's where Ed pulled an Ash Ketchum.

"Now, bounce it!" At the command, Pikachu reel forward, using the beam as a platform before using his metal tail to spring upward, dodging the Hyper Beam.

"Whaaaaaaat?!"

And as expected, the Heir was left with its jaw open as he couldn't believe what just happened.

Ed proceeded to wipe his nose a bit before pulling his left arm back and pointing forward, doing a pose that a certain Ace Attorney would do, "Use the Iron Tail while doing the maneuver that I taught you!"

Pikachu quickly remembered the maneuver Ed had taught him and Natsu. With his tail still metal, Pikachu began to spin around in the air, his figure turning into a spinning ball yellow and gray, heading down to Tyranitar.

"Dodge it!" Cardin shouted in panic.

But Tyranitar grunted as it stayed in place.

"What are you doing you stupid Pokémon?! Move out of the way!" The bowl haired scolded in anger at the Dinosaur before realizing why it didn't listen, "Shoot! Hyper Beam causes the Pokémon to not move for a while!"

"PIKA!" Pikachu came down and slammed his tail on Tyranitar's forehead, making a comical expression on his eyes popping out. "Cha-Pi!" Another burst of air blew everything away.

"Uh! Direct Hit to the head!"

Tyranitar grumbles in pain while Pikachu bounces away from him, landing on the center of the ring.

The Armor swayed around for a few moments before…stomping forward and glared at Pikachu, making him flinch in surprise.

"Amazing folks!" The MC shouted through his mic as the crowd went wild once again. "Even after a hit like that, Tyranitar is still standing!"

"Haha! I knew that Pikachu was weak!" Cardin chuckled in a mocking tone. "Of course it wouldn't go down! It's the most powerful Pokémon my father has to offer! And to everyone who wants power; I guarantee you that if you go to our company, you will have the same result!" He told the audience, who were amazed and interested.

Ed and Pikachu stood calm…before they shocked everyone by the trainer taking his glasses off and the Pokémon removing his hat.

"Huh?! You are finally giving up!" Cardin mocked with inflated cheeks. "Finally knowing that no matter what you do, you cannot be compared to my awesomeness and power?"

"...I must admit, you do bring power." Ed admitted to him, proceeding to do a bow to his direction, Pikachu doing the same. "That's why your Tyranitar has my respect for showing its tenacity and strength in this battle."

"Pika." Pikachu nodded before putting back his hat.

"Well it's about time you show some respect." Cardin said before pointing forward, "But that doesn't mean you are getting it easy! Now, finish this fight with Dark Pulse!" He commanded Tyranitar.

Who didn't move at the command...

"Hey!" The Heir shouted at his Pokémon, who stood unresponsive, "What are you doing?! Attack him now! I command you to do it!"

Ed sighs as he looks at the referee. "Ref. Do your job." The man was confused before looking at Tyranitar. Only moments later that he panicked before speaking.

"Tyranitar is unable to battle!"

"...Huh?" Cardin blinks several times. Did he hear right?

Before he could say anything, the screen popped up, showing everyone on the battlefield, more especially Tyranitar, who was still standing...but it was unconscious.

"Pikachu is the winner!" The referee continued as he raised his hand in Ed's direction. "Which means that victory goes to Edgar Martinez!"

It was silent for a few seconds before the crowd began to cheer at the amazing battle.

"W-What a turn of events, folks!" The announcer shouted as he wiped some sweat away with his towel. "In a strange way of twist, Pikachu landed the ultimate final blow to its opponent!"

"Hmm. We truly underestimate the strength behind the little one, it reminds me of one of my older son's friend's Pokémon." Do you all get that reference Flint said? Sure you did. (Even though is not one)

Back on the field, Cardin fell to his knees as he sported shock and despair. It was like everything he had believed in has begun to crumble. "How...How did I lose?" How did he lose when he had such a Powerful creature, trained by his father and all?

He had the advantage! The strength! Even the field! So why did he lose?!

*Step*

The bowl-haired boy noticed that Ed was already in front of him. Pikachu in his shoulders and glaring at him. "Tch! What? Come here to rub me the wrong way again? Save your insults to yourself, cheater."

"...I don't insult good sportsmanship." Ed spoke as he dropped to Cardin's level. "And I definitely don't mock the efforts of others when they give their all."

Cardin gritted his teeth in frustration, "I don't need pity either!" He glared at Ed, showing his trembling eyes as small tears began to form. "I lost! To someone like you who doesn't have an evolved Pokémon! What freaking lying is that?! Just how was that possible?!"

Ed simply stared at his broken eyes, knowing what was happening. He let out a sigh before standing, "The problem was not your huge ego that has probably been praised since little." He looks at the standing/unconscious Tyranitar. "Or even 'your' stubborn and powerful Pokémon." he looked back at the Heir, "It was your lack of experience outside your father's shadow."

"...HUH?!" Cardin looked at him in utter disbelief at that accusation (Can I even call this an accusation?) "What are you trying to say?!"

Instead of saying anything, Ed turns around, "That's for you to figure it out."

"DON'T LEAVE WITH THAT CLIFFHANGER!" Cardin screamed with comical teeth as Ed left.

"With our two final Trainers set, the final match for the Boulder Badge is set!"

Ed looked at Celes, seeing her smile at him. He smirks back at her, with Pikachu jumping over his head and pumping his fist at her.

"Stay tuned folks," The announcer stomped on the desk he was in while pointing at the screen, where the two faces of Ed and Celes were. "Because something tells me that this final battle is one for the record books!" The crowd was pumped in excitement.

Flint pops through the side with a blank expression, "Which will happen on the next chapter."

Damn. I didn't know Flint was a troll.

As the crowd began to throw trash at the announcer and Flint for that comment, Ed went to the exit out of view. He motioned to Pikachu to jump down, making the electric mouse do. "Good job out there, Pikachu. You not only won, but impressed me with that power." Pikachu felt embarrassed at the praise. "With this victory, however, Celes knows what you are capable of, so this final stretch is going to be hard."

Unlike Cardin, Ed knew that black-haired gothic already had a few ideas to counter his plans.

"So, I need to know if you can still go on." Ed asked. "I did say I wanted to use you at the end, but after this fight, I'm conflicted. I'm sure Natsu or Ekans can take your place and let you rest." Pikachu's eyes widened in surprise at the consideration his trainer was giving him. He looked at himself, seeing a few small scratches and bumps. There was also the hit he received from that Rock Throw attack. "I don't want to force you to continue fighting, especially with injuries from attack that were effectives-"

"Well, I don't think it was that bad. I think I can continue fighting if you allow me, Boss."

Ed felt that his eyes had gone slow as they widened in disbelief while looking at Pikachu. The electric mouse tilted his head to the side in confusion. "Something wrong, Boss?" he said.

"...Pikachu...You can talk?!"

"...Eh?"