Last time, our protagonist Ed had managed to reach the finals of the Pewter Gym Tournament after defeating his semifinal opponent, Cardin Witchneer. With his final stretch in sight, Ed prepares for his final confrontation, only to be welcomed by a shocking situation.
"Pikachu...You can talk?!"
"Eh?" Pikachu blinks in confusion.
When mankind found life around him, in that era, it was a discovery of a lifetime.
When Pokémons began to appear like rabbits, a sense of mystery and excitement (as well as fear) coursed through the minds of many people.
If one man could be able to communicate with them, others would be impressed and interested. Even more when Pokémon communicate with humans; of course those were the Physic-type, at the extension of Lucario's Aura Telepathy.
And that one different timeline Movie where Pikachu spoke to Ash.
And Meowth's sad story on how he learned to speak for love.
The point is that hearing a Pokemon talking like a human is impossible, under the standard of this world.
So…This is where we return to the previous conversation.
(With Ed and Pikachu)
Both Man and Pokémon stare at each other. One was staring in an expression that might cause someone to lose their mind, while the other was simply confused.
I don't think I need to explain who is who at this moment.
"P-P-P-Pikachu?" Ed, for the second time in his life (Irony, consider this is his second life) was left in shock. "Did...Did you just talk?"
At first, Pikachu tilted his head in confusion before doing a double-take before widening his eyes in amazement.
"B-Boss?" That low male voice from before came out of Pikachu. "Can you...hear me?"
"Y-Yeah." Ed couldn't help but answer as he kneels to the ground. "I can hear you…"
Pikachu's shock expanded before his expression turned into happiness. "Boss can hear me!" In a fast move, he jumps onto Ed and hugs him. "I can talk to the Boss! This is awesome! There are so many things I wanted to tell you!"
At that point, Ed had managed to calm his hyperventilating heart as he hugged Pikachu and chuckled in disbelief. "I can't believe it...I'm hearing you loud and clear!"
He was freaking out hard! What the Hell was going on?!
"How's it possible?!" Ed asked as he pulled Pikachu out of the hug and held him up like a baby. "I shouldn't be able to understand you!"
"I don't know either!" Pikachu said. "But I'm not complaining!"
"Neither am I!" Ed said before realizing something. "Hold up...If I can understand you...then!" Grabbing Pikachu with one hand, he used the other to take out his two Pokemon. "Natsu! Ekans! Out!"
Both Poké-balls open up and both Pokémons materialize. Natsu and Ekans look at their trainer.
"Yo! You call!"
"Do you need me, Mas~ter?"
Ed found his jaw hitting the floor hard, that it cracked a bit. Natsu's voice sounded just like the wizard of Fairy Tail when he was young! While Ekans feminine voice sounded just like a certain Pirate Empress when she was young!
"Something wrong, Boss?" Natsu asked in confusion at seeing his trainer look like that.
"I~s there s~omething bothering you, Mas~ter?" Ekans asked.
"Yeah something is bothering me!" Ed yelled at them in excitement, making them flinch in surprise. "You guys! I can hear you!"
"...Well, duh!" Natsu gave him a deadpan expression. "Last time I checked, your ears were doing fine." He remarked, earning a slap to the head by Ekans' ringtail.
"Be mindful of your word~s to Mas~ter, liz~ard." Ekans scolded the fire Pokémon, who grumbled in annoyance at being hit.
"Chill out, snake queen." Natsu teases her. "It's not like Boss cares for formality."
"Is~ not an ex~cus~e to s~peak to him like that." Ekans was acting like a mature girl.
"You guys!" Both of them turn to Pikachu, who was dropped by Ed's shock and gave them both joy in his eyes. "You don't get it! Ed can hear us!"
This time, the two of them stare at Pikachu for a while before starting to look between him and the trainer several times.
Until their brains finally click in.
"Huuuuuh?!" Natsu and Eknas look at the overjoyed Pokémon Trainer in disbelief.
"B-Boss, is it true?!" Natsu asked, earning a nod from Ed.
"M-Me too, Mas~ter?!" Ekans asked, also getting a nod.
Overcome by joy too, the two Pokémons jump on to Ed, hugging him hard. The black-haired boy didn't hesitate to hug them back.
"Ah yeah! My Boss is the best! I knew we were destined to be together!" Natsu proclaimed with pump fists.
"Oh, Mas~ter~ I'm s~o happy!" Ekans began to show more affection as she slithered to his face and rubbed his cheek. "To be able to communicate with you is~ a gift for me!"
"Alright! Alright! Let's calm down!" Ed said as he and the others began to calm down. "Seriously...what the hell?" He found himself resting against the wall as he chuckled. "How in the world did I manage to understand the Pokémon language?!"
"You just said that!" All three of his Pokémon shouted in joy.
"Final match of the tournament is getting close! Five more minutes for both participants to get ready!"
Ed and the others heard the MC announce, making them stop their joyful moment.
"Alright! Asking about this is for later; we have a tournament to win!" Ed stopped hugging his team and stood up, dusting his pants away. "L-Let's get back to business!" His joy quickly changed into seriousness (in some way) as the trio stood in front. "As I said, we are just one match away from winning the Boulder Badge. And this last opponent is probably going to be the strongest one yet." he poses once again, pointing his finger at the field. "We have to throw everything if we want to win!"
"YEAH!" The three Pokemons were pumped.
"..." Ed suddenly drops to his knees and hands, crying. "I'm sorry, but I just can't…" He then looked at the three Pokemons with tears and joy on his face. "I can't get the fact that I can hear you guys!"
"Us too!"
"I'm freaking out hard!" Ed began to hold his eyes to stop the tears of excitement. "This is way out of character for me, but I just can't stop it!"
At this moment, the trio was getting worried about their trainer's emotions. "Uhm...Boss?"
Ed raised his hands at Pikachu as he began to breathe, "Okay...Okay...Breath in and out…" Using his technique, he finally began to calm his pulses. "...Alright! I think I am good now."
"You sure?" Natsu asked.
"Positive." Ed said as he took one final breath. "Okay, back to the topic at hand." He turned to Pikachu, "You think you can continue this fight?"
"I'm sure I can." The Electric Mouse Pokemon said.
"You sure, rat?" Natsu asked with crossed arms. "I did hear you get hit hard by that rock attack and we know that bowl-haired weirdo was going all-out. I don't mind going again."
Pikachu shook his head in denial. "No. You and Ekans have been fighting too long to get Boss in here. I must put on weight as well." He taps his hat, "Besides, as the leader of this group, I don't want to do anything but watch."
"...If you s~ay s~o," Ekans said as she slithered to the mouse and rubbed her tail on his head, "Jus~t don't overwork yours~elf out there."
Pikachu nodded and looked at Ed, who was humming. Thinking whenever he should allow it or not. Ultimately, he simply sighs as Pikachu had told some truth of Natsu and Ekans having gone too much. "If you say you can, then fine." He grabs an Oran Berry from his bag and gives it to him. "Eat up, buddy. It's time for the final round."
"Right!"
"Excuse Me, Ed?"
Ed flinched in surprise when he heard someone calling his name from behind. Turning around, he saw one of the employees of the Gym. "Yeah?" He asked.
"Since you are a finalist, I asked that you come with me to prepare you for the last entrance." They said, confusing the black-haired boy.
"Last entrance?"
(Five minutes later)
The Pewter Gym was full of joy and excitement once again as fireworks shot up and exploded into miniature explosions. "We are back, ladies and gentlemen!" The announcer proclaimed loudly as the crowd cheered. "It was a long and exciting journey, but each one must come to an end! That's why with a tearful announcement; we have come to the final round of the Pewter Gym Tournament!"
Flint stood up and grabbed the mic. "As we have seen, so many trainers came here for the opportunity to get a Boulder Badge of this Gym. At first, we had a total of 32 challengers. As the matches started, that number began to drop to only two trainers. Out of these two, one will be crowned the winner, and will receive the Boulder Badge for its victory!" He pointed at the screen where to match cards appeared. "Without further ado, let's welcome our finalist!"
Spotlights appeared above the left side of the battlefield, "Introducing first from the left side! She needs no introductions as everyone recognizes her as the candidate for an Elite 4!" The screen card flipped, revealing Celes' face. "With her dark-theme beauty and powerful Pokémons at her side, victory is just fingers away!"
From the left side, instead of the girl herself, a purple carpet rolled down. Followed by several people dressed as reporters with cameras coming out before turning to the entrance, "Let's welcome the Queen of Darkness; Celestia Mercury!" Suddenly, the carpet began to move like an escalator, and from the darkness came a feminine figure, soon to be revealed as Celes as she was moved by the escalator while smiling and waving her hands as the reporters began to take pictures of her, along with the cheers of the crowd.
"I hope I can give you all a good show!" Celes said as she reached her spot, receiving a huge reaction.
"Grace and beauty right there. What an entrance!" The MC said as he then snapped his fingers, spotlights appearing on the right entrance. "And now! Her opponent!" The screen card flips and shows Ed's face.
Vroom! Vroom! Vroom!
At the shock of the crowd, an engine echoed through the walls. "This boy appeared from out of nowhere, and shocked us all with strategies and will power! Despite having disadvantages in most of his matches, he turned things around and reached the stage of them all!" From the right entrance, a light appeared before something came out. It was Ed, riding in a four-track down to the field! "Will he create a miracle once again!? Let's find out! Let's give it all to Edgard Martinez!"
Ed reached the end and drove the vehicle around the arena one time before coming to a stop on his spot. He looked at his opponent and took out his sunglasses before proceeding to get off the ride.
"It's show time!" He said aloud, making the crowd go wild.
"Wow! I didn't know he owns a four-track!" The announcer said in surprise before noticing a logo of the property, "Oh, wait. That's the property of the Gym…" He looks at Flint, "Why do you need, and have, a four-track?"
"Isn't it obvious? When I need to do long trips." Flint's narrow eyes glint, "Sometimes, you need to be fast for the sake of family."
"Kya! My man is always thinking about us, children!" And there goes Brock's Mom with her lovely-smooching persona.
Back on the ring, Ed and Celes walk to the center of the field, facing each other. Although Ed was slightly bigger than her.
"So...You fulfill your promise to get to the final." Celes said.
"Yep. And I believed you said you were going to tell me the reason for this desire to fight me." Ed replied.
Celes chuckled, " And I planned to. For you see, this tournament means to me a chance to be free." She saw his raised eyebrow in confusion.
"Now then!" The MC was signaling to start, "Let's get this started-!
"Excuse me!"
The hype and announcement came to a halt as everyone looked at Celestia, who had her hand raised. "I'm sorry to cut this short, but I have something to say." Everyone got confused and curious about what the black-haired girl wanted to say.
Celestia was given a mic and looked at the crowd. "First of all, I wish to express my most gratitude to everyone here, from the people watching to those who fought their way in this tournament." That got a reaction. "I also wish to thank Pewter's City Gym Leader, Flint, for giving me a great opportunity to expand my desire to know more about this world and its Pokémon." Flint felt the need to blush at that. "However, there is an announcement I must make that you all...would have probably found out at a later date."
Now that was an interesting bit of info that even Ed was curious about.
"As you all know, I am known for being a candidate for the next Elite 4." Celestia said as she began to pace around. "And for years, I have been studying and training to become an exceptional trainer…" she looked at the audience. "With that said, I decided to make my move."
Gasp and whispers went through the stadium. Ed stares at her with keen interest, ('Is she...planning to go after the Elite posicion? At that young age?') That'll be an achievement of a lifetime!
"I had obtained perfect results from my current Academy and the rights to go participate in the League...But I feel unsatisfied at this." Celestia motioned her arm around. "I want to test my knowledge in a real battle. Not against students, nor with technology. Actual, real, experience fights with skillful trainers." She then looks at Ed with expectations in her eyes. "That's why I decided to participate in this tournament; and face a trainer whose skills at battling should put me to the test and show me what I must do."
Ed widened his eyes at that declaration.
"To be honest, I was expecting to face Witchneer at the finals; he is the son of a powerful and successful trainer. But then, I saw you, Ed." Celestia began to walk up to him. "Cardin is more experienced, has powerful support, and his tactics have brought him countless victories...yet, you came. At a disadvantage, with tactics I have never seen and an unpredictable mindset that has truly taken me by surprise." She stops in front of him, raising her face to look at him. "Just seeing that fight, and your current ones, I knew you were the one."
Her crimson eyes meet his dark-brown eyes.
"This match with you...Will show me whenever I am or not ready to face the Elite 4."
…
…
…
"Huh?"
"EHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!?"
The entire stadium shook like an earthquake-
Scratch that; the entire Pewter Town shook at the statement.
"I-I can't! Did I hear right?!"The announcer slammed his palms as his eyes shook. "Did she really say that?!"
"I-I think we did." Flint staggers through his words before bursting into flames of excitement. "She...is finally going after the Elite 4!" At his words, the crowd finally stopped gawking and began to cheer.
Ed was still looking at Celestia with surprise. ('So this was the reason...I'm her final challenge to see where she goes.') He thought as he felt the girl enjoying the atmosphere while staring at him.
It's making him uncomfortable.
"So you ARE going after them." Ed said as he scratched his head with a chuckle. "Got to say, I don't know how to feel about this." She was going to use him for a wish to make her stronger...a tiny bit selfish.
"Hehehe. I understand." Celestia said as she put the mic down. "I'm sorry if I have offended you in any way."
"Naw. To be honest, I'm used to this." Ed sighs. There were so many wrestlers back at his gym that used him to make a name for themselves. He looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "That being said...What does that have to do with being free?"
Instead of answering, she simply turned around. "Now, now. I only agreed to say why I wanted you at the finals. If you want to know about my 'personal' life, you will have to earn it."
"...Fair enough." She was kind of right. "Then I hope you are ready...to taste defeat." He teased out with a smirk.
"Hehehe…" Celestia slightly peeks at him. "Will see about that."
With that said, both trainers went to their respective places and prepared themselves. "E-Ehem! W-We apologize for the delay! Now that both trainers have started to finish preparations, we are about to start this final match up!"
"If both trainers are ready, please select your Pokémon!" The referee informed them.
Ed quickly picked a pokéball and expanded, "Pikachu! I choose you!"
Celestia took out a Dusk Ball and threw it up. "Persian, on stage!"
Both Pokeballs opened up and out came their respective Pokémons. Pikachu landed on the ground, cheering in excitement at the fight, while a medium-size peach panther-like cat with a red gem in its center.
"Perrrrr~" Persian growled as it stood ready to pounce.
('So that's her third Pokemon, huh.) Ed thought as he took his Pokedex and checked it out.
"Persian, the Classy Cat Pokémon and the evolved form of Meowth. The gem on its forehead, when it glows, shows the elegance and pride they have."
Ed looked up from his device and eyed the cat. This Persian had fur that was taken care of really well. Its red eyes pierce through him and almost shivered in fright at the mount of power it held.
"I assume that this one is your first Pokemon?" Ed asked.
"Indeed, she is." Celestia said. "I had her since she was a Meowth. Don't let her Majestic beauty fool you. She is by far my most powerful and trusted companion."
"Perrrrr~" Persian growls as she smugly accepts her trainer's comments.
"Well, I best answered back as well." Ed said as he looked at Pikachu. "You're ready, buddy?"
"Damn right!" Pikachu let electricity course through his cheek.
"This is it!" The announcer stood up as adrenaline coursed through his veins. "The final match is going to start! Who will come out victorious in this tournament?!"
"If both trainers are ready...Then, begin!" The referee motioned to start the match.
"Pikachu! Quick Attack!" Ed quickly yelled.
Pikachu burst forward in a white aura in a zig-zag maneuver.
"Protect." Celestia commands to Persian, growl as a green bubble forms around her, causing Pikachu to slam against it and bounce back. "Power Gem."
Persian began to form a small, yet powerful, bright beam on her jewel before shooting it forward at Pikachu.
"Counter it with Iron Tail!" Ed ordered, Pikachu nodded before his lighting tail turned into metal and swung it at the rock, creating a small explosion.
It was enough to cause a smokescreen, which is why Pikachu yelped in surprise when Persian appeared on his face. "Woah!"
"Bite!" At the command, Persian's mouth opened, her sharp teeth glowing, and gave Pikachu a devastating bite, making him squeal in pain.
"Wow! That was so fast!" The announcer said in shock. "I didn't even see it move!"
"Celestia used Power Gem to distract Pikachu momentarily, allowing Persian to come in with a surprise attack. Very clever." Flint commented, impressed.
"Pikachu!" Ed quickly made his move, "Use Thunder!"
"Pika!" Pikachu began to surge electricity as the yellow symbol appeared above hin and Persian.
"Persian! Throw him away!" Celestia acted quickly. Persian pulled her face back before letting Pikachu out of her jaw.
But it wasn't fast enough to getaway.
"Chuuuuu!" Pikachu summoned the lighting and it came crashing on him, the sparks reaching the Persian who growled in pain.
"Oh! Direct Hit!" The announcer exclaimed as the screen rewind the scene. "That's got to leave a mark!" He watched as the Persian struggled to stand up while sparks went around her body. "It looks like Persian is struggling! Could this match be already at its end?!"
"Pikachu! Growl on it!" Ed, instead of attacking quickly, commanded.
"Huh?" Pikachu looks confused at this, but nonetheless, he complies. "Pika!" Multiple red waves escaped his mouth and went directly at Persian, lowering her attack power and staggering her back.
"Quick Attack! Let's go!"
Pikachu once again was covered in the white aura and shot forward.
Celestia held an amused smile through all this. ('Very clever.') "Persian, dodge it!"
When he was close, the Classy Cat glinted her eyes before jumping over Pikachu, taking him by surprise. "Fury Swipes!" Persian's claws enlarged, dropped on it, and began scratching Pikachu multiple times.
"Ouch! And Persian came around with a Fury Swipe!" The announcer hissed in ghost pain. "I'm surprised that it could move while being paralyze!"
"It's probably because of the hidden ability; Limber." Flint theorized.
Persian smacks Pikachu one more time, sending him flying back to his trainer. "Pikachu! Are you okay?!" Ed asked in concern.
Pikachu recovered in mid-air and landed safely, "Yeah, no problem!" True to his words, he had no serious damage on him.
Celestia suddenly spoke up, "Did you figure out Persian's ability, Ed?" She asked.
"I assumed." Ed replied, "I know a Persian's special abilities, and I figure that you have an answer to Pikachu's electrical power." Other than being the only Pokemon she hasn't used, why would she choose it?
Celestia chuckles as Persian suddenly shakes the electricity of her fur. "I should have known." Her eyes suddenly glinted. "Then, allow me to show you a bit of my power. Persian! Quick Attack!" The Persian's body glows.
"Pikachu! Get re-" His eyes widened as his breath hitch. He just was about to make a command.
But Persian disappeared and was already on Pikachu.
"Huh?!" Pikachu's eyes widened before receiving a devastating tackle. "Ack!" He grunted in pain.
"What?!" Ed gasped in disbelief.
"Power Gem!" Celestia commanded, as Persian's forehead marble began to glow and sent Pikachu flying with a gemstone that exploded. Pikachu was sent tumbling hard through the ground.
"Pikachu!" Ed quickly knelt and caught the spinning form of Pikachu, who had bruises and felt a bit dizzy. "Buddy! You alright?!"
"T-The world is s-spinning, Boss." Pikachu replied in dizziness.
"Ouch! What a devastating combo!" The announcer said. "Aside from that level of power, that speed was insane! It didn't let Pikachu have time to react!"
"It shouldn't be a shock." Flint spoke l, "Miss Mercury's Persian was said to be the fastest of her team. Not even Rapidash was able to keep up with it."
Ed held Pikachu up, looking at Persian's glint of dominance. ('Damn! Faster than a Rapidash?! No wonder I didn't have time to act!') "Pikachu! Snap out of it!"
"Huh? Bwuh?" Pikachu shook the dizziness out before glaring forward. "Ugh! I can't believe it! This is an embarrassment for my speed!" Damn, he has pride in speed.
"Per! Per! Per!" Persian began to talk, looking all smugly and had a predator's look.
"Huh?!" Pikachu had a tick mark on his hat. "What do you call me?!"
"Per! Persian!"
"What?! Why would you say that about me?! Take it back!"
"Persssss~!"
"Take that back, furry cat!"
Ed had a ('_') in his face while sweat dripped off the back of his head. "Uh...Buddy? What's going on?" He asked his enraged Pikachu.
Said Pokémon turned to him with a fierce glare. "That cat just said I had the reflexes of a Slowpoke and the speed of a Snorlax! And called me a runt-size Pichu that will be eaten up by her!"
Ed then thought, ('But...you are a runt.')
"Let me at her! I'll show that classy cat who's a Slowpoke runt!" Pikachu was trying to get out of Ed's grip.
"Calm down. What have I told you about getting work up?" Ed spoke as Pikachu began to breathe in and out to calm down.
Celestia saw it and had a hand over her mouth. "Oh dear. It seems that Persian has let her mischievous side out." She hid it, but one could tell the smile behind her hand.
"She probably got it from her trainer." Ed remarked with a neutral expression.
"Why, whatever you mean?"
"I'm saying that you are enjoying this way too much. It's time to stop." Ed said with a huge cardboard clock in his hand.
Celestia blinked in surprise. "Where did you get that?"
"Get what?" Ed asked in confusion. The clock "mysteriously" vanished.
Celestia simply blinked and then began to lightly giggle at him. For some reason, doing that made the crowd gasp in disbelief. "How amusing."
Ed simply smirks before looking at Pikachu. "Hear that, buddy? She said I'm amusing. How about we show something 'laughable'?"
"Right!" Pikachu nodded before jumping off.
"Alright! Pikachu, Quick Attack! Surround Persian!" Pikachu charged in his white aura and began to surround Persian.
The Classy Cat felt disoriented as she tried to keep up, but she couldn't pinpoint Pikachu's location. From that, Pikachu began to attack, hitting her multiple times.
"Persian! Quick, use Protect again!" Persian forms the bubble shield again, forcing Pikachu to jump back. "Use Quick Attack!" The bubble disappeared and her body was covered in white yet again.
"Thunder! Now!" Ed shouted, Pikachu summoning his attack yet again before a lightning bolt came down.
Persian shot forward and slammed into Pikachu, which cost her to be hit with the electric attack, making it grunt in pain, followed by an explosion.
"Persian!" Celestia cried in worry as the attack was a direct hit.
"Pikachu! Are you okay?!" Ed was as well.
"Oh! What a twist! Persian landed a devastating Quick Attack on Pikachu, but it cost it to be hit by a powerful Thunder yet again!" The announcer said.
"A risk moved, yet smart strategy." Flint said as he began to explain. "Ed knew that Persian was fast, so he told Pikachu to attack with Thunder, which is a straight forward attack, to where Persian would be. Sacrificing a defense, but hurting his opponent while at it."
From the dust of the cloud, Pikachu came out, tumbling through the ground again but recovered quickly. "Auch! That...hurts bad."
From the other side, Persian also came out, only that she managed to land on her paws and slide up to her trainer. "Perrrr~"
"Persian. Are you alright?" Celestia asked, earning a nod from her. "Thank goodness." She was relieved.
"Pikachu! Can you keep up?" Ed asked his friend, who simply jumped up onto his two legs. "I'll take that as a 'yes' then."
"Well. I must say," Celestia spoke up. "I did not expect a quick counter to my Persian's speed."
"Your fault for thinking I'm like your previous opponents. No offense." Ed remarked. "Besides, my Pikachu didn't like being called slow. So I'm sure he agrees that we are going to demonstrate our speed."
"Pika!" Pikachu tapped his hat.
Celestia placed a hand on her cheek and shook her head. "Oh dear. I guess I can only take responsibility for my dear friend's attitude." She looked at Persian with a smirk, "How about we properly give him a reason to fear the skill of speed?"
"Persian~" Persian licks her lips as she is ready.
Both trainers and Pokémon glared at each other, knowing that they weren't going to give up this battle.
Then, both humans grinned.
"Pikachu/Persian!"
Both Pokémon were ready for their command.
"Quick Attack!"
Pikachu and Persian had their bodies glow in white outlines before bursting forward, the images colliding with each other, which was followed by both starting to run and clash around the arena. Which look like bouncing balls moving around.
"Don't let it get away!" Ed shouted.
"Keep it up, Persian!" Celestia shouted.
Pikachu and Persian cried as they speed more, yellow and cream colors smashing continually.
The more they clashed, the more the crowd began to scream in excitement at the fight. This was by far the best match they had the chance to witness.
Although, from the contestants' place, there was one person who was scowling all the time.
"Dammit…" Cardin growls in anger. It should have been him who faced Mercury in the finals! To show her how good he is!
So how did a weakling like Martinez manage to defeat him?!
And look at Celestia's face! She is smiling! She was enjoying fighting him!
('He must have cheated! He just had to!') Cardin thought as he was still in denial. ('Why else would I lose?!')
"The reason you lost was because of your lack of experience outside your father's shadow."
Ed's words rang his brain and Cardin felt irritation going through his veins. ('What does that even mean?!') It was probably him insulting his father yet again.
"Just you wait, Martinez!" Cardin glared hard before turning around. "I'm going to beat you, and expose you for the cheater you are!" And with that, he left the building.
Ready to do everything to reclaim his shattered pride.
Back to the fight, it had gone for roughly thirty minutes after the clash of Quickness. After one more clash, both Pokemons separated from each other, breathing heavily. They weren't the only ones as Ed and Celestia were on the same spot.
"It's still an equal standing! The announcer said as he stood up. "Despite everything that has gone, neither Pikachu nor Persian have given up!"
"Both trainers have put great trust in their Pokémon for this final match, they need to guide them properly for victory." Flint commented.
"Well now. I must say that this has been interesting." Celestia said while sighing. "So this is what it means to be linked in battle." She said while holding her dress. "I might start sweating very soon."
"Heh. I know, right?" Ed said between breathing. "Is very different from fighting a computer or a student, right?"
"I must admit that it is." Celestia nodded but her confidence was still intact. "However, we are far from done."
"So are we!" Ed said before looking down at Pikachu, "Pikachu! Let's try that!"
Pikachu looks at him in surprise. "You mean...We are going to use that?!" He asked, earning a nod from his trainer.
"Ready?"
"Right!"
Celestia perks up at the excitement of the electric mouse. ('Oho? Does Ed have something for me?') "Persian! On guard!" Her Persian stood ready.
Ed began to think. ('Persian's speed is terrifying, and it knows Protect. Luckily, if the information isn't wrong, there's a time limit the bubbles stay on. We need to go fast.') To be honest, he was kind of nervous.
This move that he showed and practiced with Pikachu was something he developed by watching Ash and having some thinking with a few Pokémon fan friends in his world.
Unfortunately, he could only speculate and not know if everything will work perfectly.
But he won't get anywhere without even trying!
Ed adjusts his glasses before pointing upward. "Pikachu! Charge Thunder!"
"Pikaaaaaa!" From his arms, Pikachu raised his two tiny arms as the yellow circle appeared yet again.
"Oho! It looks like Pikachu is going to launch a powerful Thunder attack!" The announcer said. "What does it have in plan?" Everyone had high expectations and curiosity about what this trainer would bring.
And a wrestler never fails to make the crowd go 'Wow'.
He suddenly grabbed Pikachu by his back and pulled his arm like a baseball player, "Quick Attack! Go!" He shouted as Pikachu, still sparkling, got covered in the white aura before Ed threw him like a fastball, leaving a trail of white.
"What?" Celestia blinked in shock at that. ('Two attacks at the same time? Impressive.') Seeing how fast Pikachu was coming, she quickly gave a command to Persian. "Quick! Protect!" Persian summoned her bubble shield.
('Perfect!') "Pikachu! 450 Splash!" Ed commanded.
('450 Splash?') Was the thought of everyone. They never heard of an attack named that.
Pikachu curled into a ball and began to spin in the air, arcs of yellow and white surrounding him. He crashed against Persian's protective bubble for a few seconds before using the momentum to bounce into the air.
"Oh my!" Celestia gasped in shock while staring at the spinning form of Pikachu, along with an equally shocked Persian.
Ed pointed his finger forward. "Switch to Iron Tail!"
Pikachu stopped spinning and had a smirk as his lighting tail changed into iron while falling.
"Now! Let it rip!" Ed snapped his finger, signaling Pikachu to do its job.
"Ah, yeah!" Pikachu said as he unleashed the Thunder above him and positioned his tail forward as the lighting began to follow it. "Get ready to feel the Thunder!"
Persian and Celestia's eyes widened at the incoming speed that Pikachu was coming, along with the Protect wearing off. "Persian! Dodge it!" Tha black-haired commanded.
Persian simply jumped backward, just in time as Pikachu landed on her spot…
But the result ended as Ed expected.
The moment Pikachu's tail touched the ground, along with the lighting, a massive spark exploded and created a massive flashbang that covered the stadium completely.
"Good Arceus!" The announcer and Flint shouted together while covering their eyes by the sheer brightness. "What a powerful attack! It's so blindly powerful! This Pikachu is no joke! But most importantly! Did it hit?!" That question made everyone tense as they wanted to see the arena.
The answer came as the light began to diminish, showing...Pikachu in the center of the field, tail stab on a damaged arena, multiple large rocks surrounded the entire ground.
Persian coughs several times, a few lighting arcs coming out of her but standing up.
"Ah! What an upset!" The announcer screamed. "Persian managed to dodge it!"
"Dammit!" Pikachu cursed as he jumped back. He looked back at Ed in disappointment. "Sorry Boss. I missed it."
Ed simply shook his head. "No worries. We barely had time to master it." He knew the chances were low, but it was worth the try. ('Now we can focus on what to improve later.')
"...Hehe…"
Ed suddenly heard a small chuckle coming from his opponent. Raising his eyebrow, he watched as Celestia suddenly began to laugh. "Hahahahahha!"
"Oy! What's so funny?" Ed asked.
"Hehehe…Three moves to create one powerful attack." Celestia giggled as her eyes glowed in interest. "Now that's something I never even imagined to be possible. You keep becoming an interesting adversary by the minute, Ed."
"Hmph!" Ed felt his ego being fed. "Thanks for acknowledging my Pikachu's strength. But flattery won't get you a victory!" He and Pikachu crossed their arms. "We are FAR from pulling things out of the bags!"
"PIKA!"
"I know." Celestia and Persian stood ready. "Which is why we are going to show you our difference in battle."
"Per!"
"Go!"
(Meanwhile, in Pallet Town)
At the town's Research Lab, Prof. Oak was having a cup of tea while watching his TV, more especially the Pewter Gym Tournament. "Well, well. I had a feeling that boy was interesting. But who would have thought he has a few tricks up his sleeve?" He chuckled in surprise at what Ed quickly commanded his Pikachu to attack. "He sure reminds me of Ash and his Pikachu."
Moving from there, a residential home of the place had a mature woman who was enjoying her cup of tea while watching the TV. "Oh dear. That young man almost looks like my dear Ash. He even has a Pikachu." She couldn't help but chuckle. "How big is the world?"
(Somewhere in Kanto)
Inside a Pokémon Center, we see a young spiky-brown-haired boy in blue clothes looking at the TV. He had a Squirtle sitting next to him and they both sported a smirk while watching the final fight. "Heh! Those two aren't half bad!" He said as he watched Celestia's Persian fire her Power Gem. "They are way better than any chump I had." He looks at his partner, "What you say, Squirt? If we see either of them, let's show them our power!"
"Squirtle! Squirtle!" The Tiny Turtle nodded in eagerness.
"Hey! Hey! Hey! Come on Gary, show who is the best!" Gary Oak's cheerleader chanted from behind.
(Somewhere, also in Kanto)
"Wow! Did you guys see that?!" A young man shouted in excitement while looking through a random TV he and his friends passed by. "That guy's Pikachu is so strong!"
"Pika!" His chosen partner cried in equal excitement.
"That move he did was pretty impressive." An orange-haired girl said, impressed by the technique she saw Ed do. "He managed to use three moves to create one powerful attack."
"Agreed. And the fact that he is going against Celestia Mercury herself and holding his own is amazing." A boy that resembled Flint said in deep thought.
"A guy with a Pikachu that can hold its own against one of the Elite 4 candidates…" the first boy said before clenching his hand into a fist. "That's just getting me pumped up!" He looked at his buddy, "You feel pumped up too, right Pikachu?!"
"Pikachu!" Pikachu nodded to his friend and master.
Both of his traveling companions simply shook their heads with a smile. ('Same old Ash.')
(Back to the fight)
Ed found himself sweating and breathing heavily along with his Pikachu, who was covered in small bruises and was struggling to stand straight. His hat had a few scratches.
Celestia was fine, not sweaty or tired but she felt her body under too much stress. Persian had a few bruises and was breathing, but was in better shape than Pikachu.
The announcer began to speak. "Things look heated, folks! Pikachu looks to be barely hanging, while Persian looks able to keep up! Is the fight heading to its final act?!"
('It's true.') Ed thought as he could see Pikachu breathing getting heavier. ('We have been fighting non-stop since battling Cardin. Not to mention that Persian can dodge all of our attacks.') Pikachu speed is good, but Persian was better.
('Persian looks to be capable of continuing, but I'm worried.') Celestia thought. ('Ed's Pikachu is not like any other. The amount of power on his electricity is unreal. A hit like that and I'm sure she won't withstand it.')
Both trainers came to an equal answer to their worries.
They needed to end this now.
"Edgard Martinez!" Celestia spoke up, catching the boy's attention. "You are by far the most troublesome adversary I had the honor of facing agaisnt!"
"I told you flattery won't get you to win, but thanks for the compliment!" Ed responded.
"Which is why...I must inform you that I will end this match right now!" Her expression turned serious.
"I was just thinking the same thing!" Ed pushes his glasses up. "Pikachu! This is the last stop, buddy! Are you ready?!"
"Yes!"
"Persian darling!" Celestia looks at her partner. "Be ready for the final stretch!"
"Per~!" Persian meowed.
"It seems that both trainers had decided to bring this match to a close." Flint deduced.
"Persian! Quick Attack and Fury Swipes!" Celestia commanded as the Persian grew large claws from her paws and ran forward
"Pikachu! Quick Attack and Iron Tail!" Ed commanded, Pikachu's tail turned into iron once again and went to intercept.
The tail and the claws collide as both Pokémon grunted to overpowered each other.
"Keep at it! Don't let it beat you!" Ed shouted.
"Counter all of its attacks!" Celestia shouted.
Persian and Pikachu began to clash their attacks multiple times. Some were dodges while others were counters. Their last attack sent both of them away, landing on their four feet.
*crack*
And the ground beneath Pikachu broke.
"Oh no!" Ed shouted in fear as Pikachu lost balance.
"Persian! Quick Attack!" Celestia commanded, Persian covered herself in the white aura before dashing forward, slamming into Pikachu and sending high into the air.
"Oh! What a twist again! The ground beneath Pikachu gave in and allowed the Persian to take advantage to attack!" The announcer screamed.
"Power Gem! Full power!" Persian's jewel began to glow before shooting her beam at the descending Pikachu.
"Pikachu! Counter it with Iron Tail!" Ed commanded. Pikachu gritted his teeth before spinning into position and countering the attack with its tail.
The struggle began as Pikachu was getting overpowered by the beam.
"Oh dear! It seems that the clash just started and is already ending!" The announcer said.
Ed gritted his teeth and fists, the wounds Pikachu had were starting to take effect. "Come on, Pikachu!" He started to cheer for him. "I know you still have fighting in you! Don't lose to that Cat!" His eyes suddenly turned blue yet again. "You told Natsu and Ekans you got this! That as the leader, you have to put in your weight! So show me!"
Pikachu's thunder mark began to glow, his eyes turning golden.
"Show me that thundering spirit inside you!"
"PIKAAAAAA!" Pikachu screamed as his entire body began to release electricity and started to spin his body like a buzzsaw. "CHUUUUUUUUUUU!" He began to destroy the Power Gem.
"What?!" Celestia was taken by shock at what just happened.
"HOLY ARCEUS!" The announcer screams with his popping out. "What a third twist!"
"Persian! Protect!" Celestia ordered.
Persian quickly covered herself in her protective shield. The spinning form of Pikachu clashes against the bubble, sending sparks around it.
*Crack!*
It was there that history would put a story on its book of life.
"! I-Impossible…" Celestia watches in outer disbelief.
"...I-It can't be!" The announcer dropped his microphone while Flint's jaw fell.
The entire stadium stared in shock and disbelief.
Persian's Protect...began to form a crack.
"GOOOOOOO!" Ed roared out.
"CHUUUUUUUUUUU!" Pikachu cried as he spun faster, his multiple tail hits starting to expand the shield.
"P-Persian! Full-power Fury Swipe!" Celestia desperately commanded as Persian grunts and grew her claws.
"Iron Tail!" Ed shouted with a pumped fist.
*Crash!*
The shield breaking was the start of the last attack.
Pikachu slows his spin and ready his Iron Tail while Persian swipes forward her Fury Swipe.
*BOOOOOOOM!*
The collision created a massive explosion of dust and electricity. Celestia covered her face from the blast while Ed held tight his glasses.
The dust began to settle after a minute, both trainers and the crowd looked forward to the result. The debris cleared to show...both Pikachu and Persian on the ground.
"Pikachu/Persian!" The respective trainers shouted in worry.
"O-O-Oh Dear! Both Pokémons are down!"
The referee stared at both Pokémons for a moment before raising both of his flags. "Persian and Pikachu are both unable-" he was cut short when he noticed movement from the center.
Everyone gasps as they watch as Pikachu and Persian struggle to stand up.
"Ooooooh! It seems that neither Pokemon is out of the count just yet!" The announcer shouted.
"Is the will of fighting. Neither Persian nor Pikachu had the intention of losing." Flint commented as his eyes burned in passion.
At that, the crowd began to cheer and chant the names of Pikachu and Persian.
('Come on, Pikachu. I know you can do it!') Ed thought in sweat mode.
('Persian. I'm sorry for think this, but stand up!') Celestia thought, finally starting to feel the sweat around her forehead.
Pikachu and Persian 'apparently' heard their trainers' words because they started to stand, with epicness around them.
"I...can still...fight!" Pikachu yelled out.
"Per...sian!" Persian growled.
Both Pokemon stood up...only for Pikachu to fall.
"Pikachu!"
A few seconds passed, and the referee made his call again. "Pikachu is unable to battle! Persian wins! Which means the victor of this match is Celestia Mercury!"
The stadium stood speechless at the surprising end of such a battle, before snapping out of their shock and began to applaud and cheer.
"A-AMAZING! After such an amazing match, even when it had us against our seat, Celestia Mercury brought it home! Another victory for the Elite 4 Candidate!" The announcer shouted.
Celestia let a relief escape out her lips. For a moment there, she thought she lost. ('So this is what it feels to truly battle...Is very tiring.')
Ed ignored the cheers as he ran up to Pikachu, kneeling on the ground and picking him up. "Pikachu? Can you hear me?" He asked.
Pikachu groggily opens his eyes to look at him. "...S-Sorry, Boss...I lost." He apologized, feeling disappointed in himself.
Ed shook his head with a smile. "Don't apologize. You fought wonderfully and showed me how strong you are, partner." He caressed his cheeks slightly. "Take this loss as a way for us to continue training."
"Per…" Persian suddenly appeared in front of Ed, making him flinch in surprise. She eyed Pikachu, who weakly turned to look at her, for a moment before closing in and giving him an affection lick. "Persian~"
"Huh?" Ed said, confused.
"Ugh! W-What was that for?!" Pikachu asked in slight surprise.
"Well, well, Persian," Celestia walks up to them, sporting a curious look. "Those that mean you acknowledge Pikachu?" She asked.
"Per~sian!" The Classy Cat meow before rubbing her cheek against Pikachu.
"Eh?" Ed turned to Celestia, "What do you mean 'acknowledge'?" He asked her.
"Is a simple way of her that she admits that Pikachu is strong and capable," Celestia explains. "The lick is her way of saying that Pikachu is powerful, and the rubbing is to show her respect for him."
Ed hummed in interest. ('Now that I think about it, didn't a Meowth once did the same to Persian?') He thought, but he probably was mistaken.
"Either way, it would appear that I have won." Celestia reminded, which Ed simply sighs.
"And I have lost, fair and square." Ed said as he stood up, Pikachu in his arms. "I can see why you are a Candidate."
"You are taking this loss rather well."
Ed rolled his eyes, "This was not the first Iose, and I'm sure there will be more." He remembers the many times he lost in the ring.
"Hehe. Even now you still amazed me, but I must say, this fight truly opened my mind." Celestia said while petting Persian's head. "That combination attack was outstanding of you. I never even thought something like that was possible."
Ed chuckled. "Well, the world is full of amazing things and people. I simply had an open mind to everything."
"Hmmm, is that so?" Celestia was intrigued.
"Either way, congratulations." Ed extended his hand for a shake.
Celestia looked at it before extending her hand...and made a fist bump. "Now, what was it that you said again? That I'm just an opponent and not important?" She asked.
Ed was surprised by what she said before understanding. "Right. No formalities." He closes his hand and fist bumps hers.
Celestia smiles. "That's more like it."
"Woah! What true sportsmanship!" The announcer shouted suddenly as the screen above showed the fist bump between the two trainers. "What wonderful and talented trainers we have in this arena! Even after a match like that, a bond was made between rivals!" Cheers from the crowd echoed by those words.
After that, a few minutes passed as Flint had come down with a small case. He came to a stop in front of Celestia, "Celestia Mercury. Today's battle was without a doubt, one of the best I have ever seen." He said.
"Why thank you." Celestia said with a smile.
"And now, as Gym Leader of Pewter City, I hereby give you…" Flint opened the case to reveal a tiny gray badge. "The Boulder Badge."
Celestia stares at the badge before grabbing it. "Thank you!" She turned to Persian, "Well? We finally did it, Persian!"
"Per!" Persian growls happily.
"And there we have it, folks!" The announcer spoke as Celestia's face was on the screen with the badge in her fingers. "Celestia Mercury has won this tournament, as expected! But let's give a round of applause to everyone who participates!" The audience began to clap for all the trainers who battled. "And with all that, we bring this amazing tournament to its end! Good bye!"
(An hour later)
The tournament finished, and everyone began to leave.
Ed had left early to take Pikachu to the Pokemon Center and have him get healed up. He was waiting patiently for Pikachu's recovery.
He let out a sigh as he replayed his defeat in his mind. ('So this is what it feels to lose in a Pokémon Battle...It's tiring.') He felt so tired inside.
From his belt, Natsu and Ekans pop out of the poke-balls, looking at their trainer.
"Boss? Are you alright?" Natsu asked in concern.
"Just tired, Natsu." Ed replied.
Ekans then asked, "Mas~ter? Are you s~h~ure?"
Ed moves forward and places his hands on top of their heads. "Positive."
The nurse screen turns off with its melody playing out. The three of them turned to the door and saw Nurse Joy coming out with Pikachu. "Ed! Pikachu is all healed up!"
"Thanks, Nurse Joy." Ed said before turning to Pikachu, who still had a sad look on his face. "...Say, can you also check my other Pokemons?" He asked.
"Eh?" Natsu and Ekans were confused.
"But of course!" Nurse Joy said before looking at the other two. "Come along, little ones!" She motions to Natsu and Ekans to come, who were reluctant at first before following her.
Now, it was only Pikachu and Ed. Alone the two of them.
…
…
…
"Hey buddy." Ed spoke up after a long silence. "Are you still thinking of the fight?"
"..." Pikachu was quiet, his tiny hat covering his eyes.
Ed placed his hand on his head. "...Is okay, you know." He knew what was going on. "You can let it all out."
"...Sniff!" The sounds of a hurt Pokemon and his tears falling from its eyes. "I'm...sorry...You said that I did my best...But it hurts!" Pikachu began to let all out. "It hurts to know that I lost even when I gave my everything!"
Ed simply stood in silence, letting Pikachu cry out everything from his painful heart. ('Let all out, Pikachu.') He knew how he felt.
"It hurts! I did everything and I still lost!"
"I know, son. I know."
He knew it all too well.
(Meanwhile, Unknown Location)
Inside a dark room, two figures were looking at a widescreen, which was showing the final match between Celestia and Ed.
"I must say, this was entertaining." The first figure said.
"I concur." The second replied. "But wouldn't this cause problems? The only reason this happened was because-"
"It's no problem." The first figure spoke with its hand in the air. "A promise is a promise. Besides, this would be good for everyone."
The second figure simply nodded before looking down at the device they had in hand. "Sir. She is now online." They say.
"Put it on."
Moments later, the recorder battle was changed and began to transmit a call. When it was online, the light of the screen revealed a bit of the shadow figures.
A man in a black tuxedo sitting on a huge sofa...a Persian sleeping on his thigh, and a purple-haired, glasses woman in a purple suit, holding a tablet.
"Hello...Father."
The man smiled, "Hello, Celestia, sweetie."
On the screen was none other than Celestia Mercury herself, sporting a serious expression. "Am I to assume you have watched the tournament?" She asked.
"I have. And I'm very proud of your victory." The father said while petting his Persian, who meowed in affection. "That last match with that boy was a real test, I almost thought you would lose."
"But I didn't." Celestia spoke with an annoyed tone. "I won, and that's the only thing that matters."
"Despite that you were almost at your final wits, I must concur." The man crossed his fingers together, "So...as promised, you are to leave the house and go on a journey. Feel free to expand your knowledge and become stronger."
Celestia smiled, "That was the plan from the very start. And as promised, I won't interfere with your business. As long as you don't do it with mine."
The man chuckled. "By all means, dear...Speaking of it, about that boy. Edgar...Martinez, I believe his name."
"What about him?"
"I must say, the way he fought was something to be amazed about." Next to him, the woman made a few taps on her tablet before showing Ed commanding Pikachu to do its three attack combo and the spinning tail that destroyed Persian's Protect. "Not only that, his Pikachu seems very capable and its speed matches with your Persian." He said, intrigued.
Celestia's face turned serious, "If you are asking me to get him for you, forget it." She began to play with her hair, "Besides, Ed isn't like most trainers."
"...Ed?" The man raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Are you already that familiar with each other?"
"Don't think too much. We just share the same love for Pokemons...and there's the fact that he is the first person to see me as an opponent." Celestia smiled, remembering how Ed treated her all that time.
Her father watched in keen interest at how her daughter was acting. "Very well. I will postpone any ideas of him. However, seeing him on display, I believe learning a bit from him would be an excellent experience."
Celestia hummed from the other line, "Hmm...I will consider it." She then looked at the time, "Well, it's getting late. I must prepare to go to sleep."
"Agreed. Have a good night, sweetie."
"Good night, father. Don't stay too late at work." With that, Celestia ended the call.
The man chuckled as he turned to the woman, "Matori. How are things going with the special project?"
The woman, Matori, adjusts her glasses and looks at her tablet. "The Project is going smoothly. Very soon, you will have it under your control, sir." She informed him.
"Excellent." The man smiled. "That will be all for today. You are an excuse."
Matori saluted. "Yes, Giovanni, sir! Have a good night!" With that, she left.
Giovanni, the Leader, and Mastermind behind the Secret Organization of Team Rocket stood up from her sofa, Persian staying right beside him, and went to look out through the window of his secret headquarters.
"Soon...The World's Strongest Pokemon will be under my control." Giovanni smiled. "All in the name of Team Rocket's dream."
