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'Butts'- thoughts
"Butts"-Pokedex entries/TV commentary
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Double Battle, Double Victory
After the battle against Leon Ash and Azula participated back in Hulbury, our heroes now ride upon the cruise liner headed for Driftveil City in Unova, home to both the Battle Dome for Ash's Frontier Battle in Nimbasa City, and Serena's next Pokemon contest in Virbank City. Just now, the ship docked within the harbor of Driftveil, which Ash and his crew departed off of. However, this didn't stop Green from wobbling a bit and leaning against the port's guard rail.
Ash: Are you okay, Green?
Green: I, uh…. I don't think this ship…. Agreed with me.
Suddenly, the Sceptile covered his mouth with his hand and ran off as Gary looked around the town.
Gary: *sighs* Unova. I've always wanted to come here. Especially since this region is a lot more unique than most others.
Serena: Why's that?
Gary: You see, Serena, Unova is the one region where Pokemo originally found in the other 9 known regions are incredibly rare. Not even Paldea Pokemon are found here and they're the closest region to here.
Cobalt: I remember coming here once. It wasn't anything too eventful, but I saw this really cool Pokemon.
Azula: Really?
Cobalt: Yeah, it was on four legs, shiny skin, and get this. A freaking sword came out of its forehead!
Ash: A…. A sword? Coming out of a Pokemon's forehead?
Cobalt: Yep.
Ash: Cobalt, no offense, but I find that really hard to believe.
Cobalt: But I sa… *sighs* I know…..
Green then returned to the group just as they were about to leave the port as Serena looked at her handheld.
Serena: Okay, so Nimbasa City should be to the right of us, right across from the Driftveil Bridge.
Green: Wow, it's actually that easy?
Serena: Apparently. It says the person you're fighting is a man named Tucker. Seems pretty… Flamboyant, I should say.
Ash: Well, after the battle with Leon, it'd be great to have a simple battle without any sort of shouting or large crowd watching us.
—-
However, as they got to the Battle Dome in the illustrious Nimbasa City, things were the opposite of the calm, tranquil environment Ash had hoped for.
Female fans: TUCKER! TUCKER! TUCKER! TUCKER! TUCKER! TUCKER! TUCKER! TUCKER!
The boy frowns at the sight of countless women flooding the stands inside the Battle Dome of where he now stands. After coming across an uncomfortable crowd of reporters and cameramen after arriving in Nimbasa City and awkwardly partaking in a press conference, Ash finally stood backstage with his Pokemon, trying to come up with who should battle this time. He then turns to Scott, who is standing next to Aiden and Jaws with his signature smirk.
Ash: So… This Tucker guy is popular?
Scott: You could say that. Tucker is a great strategist, but he's also a performer at heart. He tries to make every battle he's in entertaining whether he wins or loses, and that definitely includes a match against the trainer who has defeated 2 out of 7 Frontier Brains.
Ash: Okay, so here's a question. Why couldn't you have explained that to me before the press conference where I made things awkward by asking who was Tucker that the reporters were asking me about?
Scott: *chuckles nervously* I like to take everyone by surprise when a contender is having a press conference.
Cobalt gives the fat man an unamused glare before Ash sighs and turns to his party.
Ash: I have no idea what to do. I don;t even know what Pokemon he uses.
As Ash sighs, Aiden gives his trainer a small hug in an attempt to comfort him, while Kestrel nuzzles his face. Scott walks over to Ash and places his hand on the trainer's shoulder.
Scott: Ash, I know you're eager to win and continue your journey through the Battle Frontier, but I want you to enjoy yourself while you're facing Tucker.
Ash: Why? Just to entertain the crowd some more?
Scott: Well...yes. But I think you should use this battle to work on having fun battling. You said you battled Leon, props by the way, and ever since then, you've been wound up. Maybe you should take this as a chance to let go a bit.
Ash frowns, unsure of Scott's advice. He turns to Psi, who thinks deeply in thought before gesturing their friend to come to them and lean in his ear.
Psi: I actually think it might be a good suggestion, Ash.
Ash: Seriously?
Azula: You've been kinda set on Leon since last night and you've been kinda distracted. This could be a good way for you to knock off some stress.
Though reluctant, his Pokemon made a fair point about his nearly obsessive mind track on the current monarch, an he couldn't win the Battle Frntier while being distracted. With this in mind, Ash turned to face Scott.
Ash: Scott, I can't promise to be a hundred percent fun, but I'll give it a try. *smirks* Plus, it'd be nice to have some fun before we take his symbol.
Scott: That's all I ask, Ash.
Suddenly, the lights in the dome light up, and the audience screams even louder in anticipation.
Scott: Looks like it's showtime. Good luck, Ash. Your friends and I'll be cheering for you on the balcony.
Ash: Thanks.
Though this gratitude was half-hearted as Scott left, making him turn to face Cobalt.
Ash: Fun and entertaining, huh? Do you think we can do it?
Cobalt: I dunno, I'm bad at comedy. Like, here's a joke. Why did the Torchic cross the road?
Ash: Why?
Cobalt: For a perfectly legitimate reason! *chuckles*
Yami: …..Dude, that's not a joke, that's a sentence.
Ash: Alright, alright. Now, come on. Let's go have fun winning this battle.
The trainer and his Pokemon nod and step on the platform that lifts them up to the stage as Ash recalls most of his Pokemon. The lights in the stadium go dark, and the audience becomes quiet, and a large screen appears showing a picture of Ash, Cobalt, and Green.
Announcer: From the quiet village of Pallet Town, this trainer has made a remarkable career as a Pokemon trainer.
Green: *sarcastic* Well, that's not overselling it.
Announcer: He has competed in the Kanto League Indigo Conference and has made it to the top 8 in only his first year. And as of now, he has defeated 2 of the Battle Frontiers best trainers and has battled against the monarch, Leon, himself! Please give a big round of applause for Ash Ketchum!
A spotlight appears right above Ash and his starters, where he quickly forces a big smile as he and his two starters wave at the audience, who are cheering loudly for them.
Cobalt: Thank you. Thank you very much. I hope you can all forgive us for beating your celebrity.
Green snickers at his brother, taking advantage of the fact that no one can understand him, besides Ash. Suddenly, after they make it to the platform on their side of the shoppingmode battlefield, the spotlight disappears, and the audience immediately becomes silent.
Announcer: And now, for the moment you've been waiting for. A man talented for creating beauty in Pokemon battles. Reigning undefeated in the ranks of Unova's celebrities, a master who cares about his fans as much as his craft, feast your eyes on the greatest display of talent the Battle Dome has to offer! It's Tucker, your Dome Ace!
The audience roar is high-pitched screams of joy that make Ash's ears hurt. He covers his ears with his hands as he watches a man with large purple hair, and a strange outfit is lowered to the other side of the shoppingmode battlefield via cables. He spoke to everyone in a mellow but friendly voice.
Tucker: Battle Frontier greetings to you, my friends! Welcome one and all to the Battle Dome! I'm here to have a good time. How about you?
The audience screams even louder with Ash, hearing some women and even some men calling him a dreamboat or saying he's very hot.
Ash: Really? They find a guy in that getup attractive?
Green: Everyone has their own tastes, dude.
Cobalt: *smirks* Yeah, like how you got kissed by a Mankey before we did this?
Green: *madly blushes* SHUT UP, COBALT!
Ash chuckles at the interaction as Tucker waves energetically and blows kisses to his fans, but to their delight. Finally, he turns to Ash and smirks at him.
Tucker: At last, the man who defeated Nolan and Greta. I have been eagerly awaiting for you to make it this far in the Battle Frontier.
Ash: *smirks* Is that right?
Tucker: Very much so. So here's to a battle between us that is worthy of the Tactic Symbol. So, our fighting theme will be the hot but cool fusion of fire and water.
Without another word, Tucker throws two Pokeballs into the air, and they open to reveal an Arcanine and a large blue salamander Pokemon, both looking during and pumped for battle. Surprised at the blue Pokemon, Ash scanned the pair with his Pokedex.
Pokedex: Arcanine, the Legendary Pokémon and the evolved form of Growlithe. A Fire type. Arcanine's magnificent bark conveys a sense of majesty that anyone hearing it can't help but grovel before it. There are many old tales of Arcanine, it has gained the title of legendary Pokemon, even though they are decently common.
Pokedex: Swampert, the Mud Fish Pokémon. A Water and Ground type. Swampert's immense bulk allows it to easily lift large stones weighing over one ton. It is also able to see through cloudy waters and detect approaching storms with the fins on its head.
A referee appeared on a floating platform, not unlike the referee from his battle with Leon.
Referee: This is a double battle between Tucker the Dome Ace and Ash Ketchum, the challenger! The battle will be over when both Pokemon from either side are unable to continue and seeing those garments on the challenger, only one Mega Evolution per trainer! Ash, since the Frontier Brain revealed the identity of his Pokemon, it's time for you to do the same! You may even have Pokemon transported here if you wish!
Cobalt: Wait, why didn;t he say anything about Dynamax?
A transporter appears next to Ash's platform.
Ash: 'So, I can either Mega Evolve or Dynamax. I can;t do both. What to do…'
Green: Water and Ground type, huh? *smirks* Looks like this is up my alley.
Ash: Hold on, Green, we have a problem. That Arcanine's a Fire type. You'll have a disadvantage. Maybe Hunter?
Cobalt: She's a Rock type, she'll get creamed by Swampert.
Ash frowns and looks at Tucker's Arcanine and Swampert carefully and then looks at his opponent. Tucker has an upbeat look on his face, but Ash can see the look of an expert strategist in his eyes, and his Pokemon clearly look very strong. Ash scratches his chin in thought for a few seconds before he sighs.
Ash: I think I know who to choose. *to referee* I'm sticking with the Pokemon I have, thank you.
Referee: Okay then.
The referee presses a button, causing the transporter to disappear. Ash nods before he takes out two Pokeballs and takes a deep breath.
Ash: *quietly* Try to have fun…. Azula, Kestrel, I choose you!
The two balls open, and Ash's Pokemoncome out, both looking ready for battle as Cobalt looks worriedly at his son on the battlefield.
Tucker: An Inteleon and a Togetic? What an interesting choice. I am eager to see what kind of strategies you are going to use with them.
Ash: I can honestly say the same thing about your Swampert and Arcanine.
Cobalt: And…. *feels chest, panicked* Yep. I'm having a panic attack.
Green: Okay, I can get Azula because of Arcanine, but why Kestrel? He won;t do too much damage, he's a Fairy and Flying type.
Ash: That's the idea.
Cobalt: What?
Ash: Kestrel's typing makes him neutral to Water and Fire type moves, plus he'll be immune to Swampert's Ground type attacks. He may not have any advantage over those two, but neither do either of Tucker's Pokemon, so it's even.
Cobalt: *nods, smiles* I knew I could count on you, Ash.
Referee: All Pokemon are in place, so now it's on to the frontier battle! And….. Go!
Ash: Okay, let's tst the waters.
Kestrel: *snickers* Literally.
Ash: Kestrel, use Aerial Ace on Arcanine! Azula, you use Liquidation on Swampert!
Both Pokemon nod before charging forward, Azula's hands swirling with water as she jumps while Kestrel dives towards Arcanine.
Tucker: Arcanine, counter with Extremespeed like the wind! Swampert, use Protect!
Swampert summons a force field around itself, blocking Azula's attack while Arcanine charges at Kestrel with lightning speed. The two of them run into each other, and Kestrelis sent flying back and landing next to Azula. Ash gasps in worry as Cobalt is close to tearing his ears off out of stress.
Tucker: Well done, both of you.
Ash: So Swampert can use Protect, and Arcanine's Extremespeed can literally make him seem invisible. You've trained your Pokemon well, Tucker.
Tucker: Thank you, Ash. But I am disappointed to know you and your Pokemon were only testing Arcanine, Swampert, and I. Show me your full power!
Ash: *smirks* Sorry sir, but nobody simply gets full power. They earn it like our friend Alain did.
The audience gasps, taken aback at Ash's response while Tucker looks at his opponent intrigued.
Tucker: So you too have battled against Alain, the Mega Prodigy.
Ash: Yeah, we were rivals in the Indigo League. He's the one that gifted me my Mega Glove. if you want to see our full power like he did, then you better prove you can handle it.
Tucker: Very well…. Swampert, use Mud Shot on Inteleon! Arcanine, Flamethrower that Togetic!
Arcanine shoots Flamethrower at Kestrel while several balls of mud shoot out of Swampert's mouth and head toward Azula.
Ash: Kestrel, use Aerial Ace to go up high! Azula, time to spin! Then use Snipe Shot!
Azula: *smiles* Ohoho… I know where this is going…
Kestrel nodded as he flew up high as Azula slipped her goggles down over her eyes and fired off several spouts of water, dissolving the mud and extinguishing the Flamethrower. And not only that, making Tucker's two Pokemon retreat slightly. The Dome Ace became impressed with this tactic, as did the audience as Gary and Serena smiled widely at the move.
Tucker: What an interesting move.
Ash: Got that right, Tucker! Say hello to the Counter Shield's Frontier debut!
Serena: There it is! The Counter Shield!
Scott: That's an interesting tactic.
Gary: You're telling me. Ash told me he apparently just made up this technique on the fly during his gym battle against Koga. It involves a Pokémon spinning around using a move, creating a shield that can block incoming attacks and strike with continuous blows. It's really hard to escape. I should know, I've been suubjected to it before during the League.
Serena: And that means if Ash times it right, Swampert and Arcanine will be getting a lot of damage from each hit?
Gary: You got it.
?: Well, that's something you don't see every day.
The group turned to the side to see a woman with short blonde hair, white headphones with long cables on her head, and an outfit consisting of yellow, black, and white. She seemed to have a sort of fashionista sort of vibe to her. Next to her was a young man with short green hair, matching eyes, and an attire reminiscent of that of a waiter.
Gary: Who are you guys?
Scott: Oh, these two are some bigwigs from this region.
Man: Pleasure to meet you. My name is Cilan, I'm a culinary professional and a liscensed A-class Pokémon Connoisseur, along with being one of the Striaton City gym leaders.
Serena: Pokemon Connoisseur? I'm sorry, but I never heard of such a thing.
Cilan: I understand, it's not really a job expanded out of Unova. I use my knowledge to judge the compatibility between trainers and their Pokemon, and give advice to strengthen their bond.
Woman: And I'm Elesa, famous professional model and the leader of the Nimbasa City gym.
Gary: Okay, I can get why you're watching this battle. *to Cilan* But what about you?
Cilan: when I heard a foreign trainer was coming to challenge Tucker, I just HAD to study him and give my evaluation. Also….
He almost stifled his next words, before he then turned away with a pink face and raised his hand, revealing a ring on his finger.
Cilan: He's sort of…. Battling my husband.
Scott: *nods* Hm. So, what's the sitch, Cilan? Any thoughts on Ash?
Cilan: I haven't seen much of his battle, but the flavor concerning the bond he has with his Pokemon is genuine and fragrant, like an aged fine wine but freshly fermented. However, I still need to watch more of the battle to get more of a conclusion.
Elesa: This will certainly be an interesting show.
Ash: Kestrel, use Dazzling Gleam!
Tucker: Swampert, Protect!
The Togetic fired a multicolored light blast from his eyes towards Arcanine, but Ash frowns when the smoke clears and Swampert is using Protect in front of Arcanine.
Tucker: Clever idea, Ash, but I've seen trainers try that on me before. Swampert, use Dynamic Punch and Arcanine, use Extreme speed.
With Swampert's fist glowing in an orange aura, it and Arcanine charge at the Togetic and Inteleon, making Ash smirk.
Ash: Now, Azula, use Ice Beam on the floor! And Kestrel, use Fairy Wind!
Sharing her trainer's smirk, Azula stops spinning and points a finger at the ground, zapping it and covering it in a sheet of ice. Swampert and Arcanine stop in mid-charge and almot slip over on the ice while Kestrel pelts them with Fairy Wind from above. The two Pokemon begin to panic and take damage until they hear Tucker's voice.
Tucker: *comforting* Arcanine, Swampert, do not be afraid. Use Flamethrower on the floor and Water Pulse on the Togetic.
Arcanine and Swampert stop panicking and fire their attacks, melting the ice and drenching Kestrel, making his wings wet and sending him staggering.
Kestrel: Oh- Oh no! *slowly falls downward* I'm going down, I'm going down! Mayday, MAYDAY!
Ash: Use Liquidation on the Flamethrower!
Azula's hands swirl with water as Arcanine redirects its aim at her son, whom she jumps in front of and counters with her covered hands, creating a cloud of steam that hurts neither team and allows Kestrel to fly above the steam.
Tucker: Ah, I see you have your own way of having your team protect each other.
Ash: I sure do. We're a family, we always protect each other.
Azula: Got that right!
Tucker: It's good to see such teamwork and comradery between trainer and Pokemon in a double battle… *smirks* But you do not have the upper hand against me.
Witht he lighting adjusted the right way, Ash gaped in fright as he glanced at the ornament on Tucker's head, revealed to have a helix within like the stone on his glove.
Ash: A Key Stone?!
Tucker: Indeed. Now it's time for a true performance. Now, Swampert, my dear friend…. *taps stone* Mega evolve!
Suddenly, a spark of light comes from one of Swampert's ankles as a band containing a stone lights up, which envelopes Swmapert's body as it yells out and expands. As the light simmers down, Swampert is now revealed to be much more bulkier in the upper body and arms, its padding and its gills become a darker, redder shade of orange, while the gills are now larger and bulbous, with filaments extending past its mouth. The black fins on its head are thicker and now extend down past its shoulders as the black tail fin is still shaped like an upward-turned fan, but it now forms a short ridge that extends up to this Pokémon's forehead, flanked on either side by the aforementioned head-fins. Amazed at the transformation, Ash scans it with his Pokedex.
Pokedex: Mega Swampert, a result of Swampert being exposed to a sample of Swampertite. A Water and Ground type. With its impressive bulk gained due to Mega Evolution, Mega Swampert can easily dig into the underwater ground and create small crevasses similar to cliffs. It fills the organs on its back with air before diving underwater or battling and uses the pressure to increase the power of its punches.
Tucker: Now, Swampert, use Water Pulse!
Swampert's tail glows orange, and it summons water vapor from the air with its tail. A geyser then fires from the water above Swampert's tailfin, and it unexpectedly lifts Azula and Kestrel into the air, sucking them into a water tornado, freeing Swampert and Arcanine.
Ash: Oh no.
Tucker: Arcanine, Fire Blast!
Arcanine launched a Fire Blast into the water tornado, causing the two attacks to combine together. Both Inteleon and Togetic shout in pain as the two attacks cause an explosion that sends them flying into the air and crashing into the ground.
Cobalt: No~! *gasps, falls over*
Tucker: How did you like that, Ash? This is the foundation of my craft. The bedrock in which everything I do is built; the bending of two opposing powers to achieve maximum damage. Fire-water fusion!
The audience let out ear-piercing screams of cheer, with many women rooting for Tucker with hearts in their eyes. Ash and Green, however, look worriedly at Azula and Kestrel, with the Fairy type managing to get onto his feet, though shaking as he stands.
Tucker: Ash, I can't thank you enough for this battle. You forced me to use my greatest combo against your Pokemon. Truly, I have enjoyed this challenge, and I hope you have too.
Ash only half pays attention to Tucker with his eyes on his Pokemon, but becomes surprised as Kestrel limps forward, causing Cobalt to suddenly revive and Azula to look forward, nervous.
Azula: No… No, Kestrel, come back.
Kestrel: No, Mom. I'm sorry, but I'm not giving up.
Azula: Baby… Baby, they're too strong. You can't-
Kestrel: But I have too!
Cobalt: Son, please! If this is to prove you're ready to evolve, you don't have too! Just do it when yo-
Kestrel: It's not that! Ever since I failed in the Pokemon League, I felt… I felt nothing but failure! This is my chance! This is my chance to redeem myself! To show I can stand with him, I can do it!
Ash: *touched* Kestrel…..
With the explanation, the Togetic's attitude sort of made sense ever since they left for the Battle Frontier. Kestrel wasn't battle crazy because he was young, but because he wanted to prove himself after losing. He thought Ash was disappointed in him and wanted to regain what he never even lost. He turns to Cobalt, who's grinning with pride as he yells out.
Cobalt: You'll never be a disappointment in our eyes, Kestrel! Now, go get 'em!
With this boost of confidence, Kestrel begins to hover above the ground, seemingly charging up a Dazzling Gleam. But suddenly, the light forms into his hand and turn milk white, where he then launches it at Arcanine, who easily dodges it, but is shown to be growing tired.
Gary: Woah…
Cilan: It would seem that Ash's Togetic has just learned Moonblast. What an exotic outcome.
Tucker sees his opponent's Pokemon act pumped, causing him to chuckle.
Tucker: Your Togetic has a lot of spirit, Ash. I'm glad Arcanine and Swampert can continue to face such an energetic opponent.
Ash: I'm glad to hear it…. Because they won't be facing us for much longer! Kestrel, use Metronome!
Kestrel then wagged his hands as a small black bolt of lightning shot from his finger and hit Swampert, causing the Mud Fish Pokemon to become nearly as exhausted as Kestrel in simply a second.
Serena: What happened, Swampert looks worn out even though it never took any damage.
Scott: The move Ash managed to pull off is called Pain Split. It's a move the equalizes the energy of the usr, as well as the target.
Green: Well, we managed to solve one problem, but we're not gonna get anywhere with that blue punch monster still up. We need to even the playing field.
Ash: But neither Kestrel or Azula can mega evolve.
Cobalt: Ash,... Mega Evolution isn't your only trick, remember?
At this, Ash is reminded of the Dyna-Band around his wrist, which gives him an idea as he digs out Azula's Friend Ball.
Tucker: You're giving up? I don't see how that will do you any good.
Ash: Far from it, Tucker. Here's where things get serious.
Gary: Would you look at that? He's gonna do it!
Serena: He's gonna Dynamax!
Elesa: Wait… What?
Scott: Uh, Serena. Ash can;t Dynamax here.
Serena: But he has the band. That lets him dynamax his Pokemon, right?
Cilan: Well, yes and no. A Dyna-Band is essential for Dynamax, but the band only works due to power spots in Galar.
Gary: Power spots?
Cilan: Basically, Dynamax only happens because of these things called Galar Particles, which are in hot spots in certain parts of Galar; mostly where the Galar gyms are located.
Gary: Wait, so… *scared* Ash can only Dynamax in Galar?!
Scott: Yeah, everyone knows that.
Serena: But Ash DOESN'T!
Ash: Alright, Azula, let's show him what we're made of!
Serena: *covers eyes* I can;t watch.
Ash recalls Azula to her ball as the crowd murmiurs in confusion. However all of a sudden, a red glow emanates from Ash's backpack, causing the five sparks to elicit from his Dyna-Band and enter the ball, enlarging it. Everyone else gasps in shock at this as Serena uncovers her eeys, becoming equally shocked.
Tucker: What?! But…. But that's impossible!
Ash: We'll see about that! Azula! *throws Pokeball* Gigantamax!
Ash throws the massive Pokeball, which opens to reveal the now Gigantamax Azula, who "cocks her water harpoon and lays down on her tail platform. The crowd shakes off their initial shock and screams in cheers.
Elesa: That… That's incredible! Cilan, how is this possible?!
Cilan: It's not!
Scott: 'Man… That Ketchum kid really is something special.'
Tucker: *frowns* You may have committed the impossible, but I will still come out as victorious! Arcanine, use Extremespeed on Togetic!
Ash: Kestrel, Aerial Ace on Arcanine!
Arcanine and Kestrel charge at each other with inhuman speed. Ash watches carefully until he makes the next call.
Ash: Now, dive!
Kestrel dips down just before the attack collides, surprising the quadruped Pokemon. Tucker smirks as he realizes that Ash tricked him into thinking his Togetic was going after Arcanine when he was actually heading toward Swampert.
Tucker: Ah, you tricked us, but it will do you no good. Swampert, Protect!
Swampert summons another green forcefield and Kestrel rams right into it, tumbling backwards as he gains a smirk alongside Ash.
Ash: Now Azula, give Swampert back his friend! Use Max Geyser!
The Inteleon grins and takes aim. Arcanine, who is still taken aback by Kestrel, dodging it panics as it is hit by a large blast of water and sent flying straight toward Swampert, who is still using Protect. Arcanine rams right into the force field and falls down groaning in pain, and Swampert stops using Protect, shocked that it unintentionally harmed its friend.
Ash: Now, Kestrel, Moonblast!
Tucker looks at its opponent surprised and looks down to find Kestrel, who is still fluttering jest above the ground, grinning deviously as he fires a blast of energy at Swampert. The mudfish Pokemon hangs in the air for a moment before it falls right on top of Arcanine. Tucker looks at his downed Pokemon, shocked before he smiles and shakes his head.
Tucker: Impressive. You used Kestrel as a distraction twice. Very risky to have it intentionally ram into Swampert's Protect. What a remarkable feat.
Ash: We're not done yet. Kestrel, Aerial Ace again!
Tucker: That won't work again, Ash. Swampert, Water Pulse and Arcanine, use Fire Blast!
Ash: Not this time! Azula, wipe them out with G-Max Hydrosnipe!
The Inteleon grins again and fires a large blast f watr which dissipates both incoming attacks. Arcanine jumps in front of Swampert to shield it, only to be hit with the water himself. Tucker and the audience gasp in silence as the attack stops to reveal the Arcanine barely concious and Kestrel riding off the shockwave of his mother's attack.
Ash: Now Kestrel, combine your Aerial Ace with Dazzling Gleam! Use Kaleidoscope Crash!
The Togetic fired a Dazzlign Gleam forward as he shifted his arm performing the previous move forward into the blast. The energy then reconfigures towards Kestrel's limbs to form a large rainbow-colored fist that targets Swmapert. The larger Pokemon tries to fend off the attack, but the momentum from Kestrel's dive overpowers its stance and makes Swmapert stumble, allowing Kestrel to use the same combo right into his stomach, sending Swampert flying into Arcanine just as it was getting up and sending them both crashing into the wall.
Tucker: Arcanine! Swampert! No!
As the dust clears, Swampert is revealed to have reverted back to normal as both h and Arcanine have fainted. The referee stares at the display, shocked for a moment as Azula reverts back to her original size before he clears his throat.
Referee: Swampert and Arcanine are unable to battle! Azula and Kestrel win, and so the Battle Dome competition goes to Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!
The entire dome stays silent after the referee makes his call. Some of them actually theorizing Ash having cheated due to being able to Gigantamax. Suddenly, Tucker laughs out loud and starts clapping his hands.
Tucker: Well done! Well done!
The crowd waits a moment until they start cheering with him. Ash sighs, glad that the battle is over while Cobalt and Green cheer in agreement while Azula hugs her son out of pride as they both are met by Ash and his starters on the battlefield.
Ash: Nice job, you guys. I knew you were just the kind of duo to take them down.
Azula: Thanks, Ash. Strange thing, though. Before I Gigantamaxed, I didn;t feel the energy like I did back in Galar. Kinda raises thequestion on how I was able to do it here.
Green: Who cares? We won!
Tucker refreshes his Pokemon with Revives and recalls them back into their Pokeballs and gives them words of thanks before putting the Pokeballs away and walks over to Ash.
Tucker: That was a very brutal but effective strategy. What influenced you to come up with such a combo?
Ash: To be honest, you did. When you revealed that the water fire combo was your greatest trick, I realized the best way to win was to keep Arcanine and Swampert apart. The combo moves are just things I work on during training.
Tucker: Ah, you took my own boasting to your advantage. Sharp thinking. You're a skilled tactician, and it was a blast to have such a match with the likes of someone like you, Ash.
The two trainers shake hands, and the crowd cheer loudly again as Swampert and Arcanije are let out to do the same with Kestrel and Azula. Suddenly, Ash feels an arm wrap around his neck from behind and pulls him back for a noogie.
Ash: Augh! Gary, cut it out!
Gary: Ah, come on, Ashy boy. Cna;t I show my old rival some love?
Ash frees himself from Gary's grasp just in time for Scott and Serena to step in with a smile. Cian walks towards Tucker as well, the two sharing a kiss as the green-haired man speaks complimentary to him.
Serena: Congratulations, Ash!
Scott: That was quite the battle out there. Good work.
Ash: Thanks, Scott.
Tucker: Everyone, give our big winner another huge round of applause!
The crowd cheers again, and Ash smiles and waves at them, appreciative of the audience being good sports like their idol. Tucker then smiles at Ash, Cobalt, Green, Azula, Kestrel, Gary, Serena, and Scott and walks away with Cilan after recalling Arcanine and Swampert.
Ash: Uh, Tucker, aren't you forgetting something? Like giving me my symbol?
Tucker stops walking and turns to Ash.
Tucker: Look behind your Lucario's left ear.
Ash looks at him in confusion until he turns to his Lucario and looks at the back of his left ear to find the Tactic Symbol lying there.
Ash: Uh...how did you do that?
Tucker: *smirks* I have my ways. Oh, and here. A little gift for your Togetic.
He throws something behind him before walking away. Ash watches the purple and green-haired men walk away from his sight before turning to Kestrel, revealing what he caught to be some sort of purple kerchief, which Cobalt helps tie around his neck as Ash puts the Tactic Symbol in his case and turns to Scott.
Ash: Alright, Scott, that's three down, four to go. Where are we going next?
Scott: Next is the Battle Pike, run by Pike Queen Lucy. I had it installed in Serena's PokeNav while we were on our way down after the battle.
Serena: He sure did. According to the map, it's near a place called Lilycove City.
Gary: Lilycove City? That's in the Hoenn region. In order to get there, we'll need to go by plane.
Scott: Lucky you, there's an airport in Mistralton City. Just head there onceyou're done with what needs to be done here in Unova and you'll be at the Pike in no time.
Gary: Perfect. We'll just head to Virbank and after Serena's contest, we'll make our way back to Mistralton.
Scott: Then what are you waiting for? The day is still young, so get a head start. I'll be waiting for you there.
Ash: Thanks again, Scott.
Thus, the four humans and Pokemon exit the Battle Dome and Ash's crew say their goodbyes to Scott before making their way to Virbank City. As they walk across the Driftveil Bridge, Gary keeps a questioning looknon his face.
Gary: You know, it still confuses me.
Ash: What would that be, Gary?
Gary: While we were watching the battle, Scott and some other spectators told us that Dynamax wasn't possible outside of Galar. So, hwo did you pull it off?
The cap-wearing boy was surprised at the information Gary gave before Kestrel recalled something from the previous day. The Togetic flew up to Ash's bag and pulled out the red rock he found back at Hulbury.
Kestrel: It was probably because of this.
Ash: What is it?
Azula: I'm not sure, but… I can feel the same energy coming from it, but it's faint.
Gary: This could be a stone containing those Galar Particles I've heard. When it was in your bag, it must've been enough to spark your Dyna-Band.
Ash: Huh, considering this could be a huge revelation… Maybe we should save the Dynamax for an emergency.
Green: Sounds good.
Kestrel then went to put the stone back inside, only to accidentally knock something out during his little excursion, Cobalt managing to catch it to show it as the Shiny Stone Ash received during the party.
Gary: Hey, that's a Shiny Stone.
Serena: A Shiny Stone?
Gary: It's one of the many different types of stones that trigger evolution in certain Pokemon. Where'd you get it, Ash?
Ash: I got it from a letter sent from some friends during the party back at Pallet Town. I kinda stored it in my backpack due to Azula's request.
Cobalt nodded to his trainer as Kestrel stopped aside, expecting his father to put the stone back… Only for him to offer him the stone.
Kestrel: Huh?
Cobalt: Well….. Isn;t this what you wanted? To evolve?
Kestrel: But…. Mom said-
Azula: Yeah, I did say that and I was being overdramatic. I had the thought in my head that if you evolved, you would start disobeying Ash for no reason other than becoming cocky, like how we feared Aiden would end up if he evolved back before you were hatched. But… I was wrong. You'll always be our son despite us being a family for only 5 months… Those will always be the golden years.
Kestrel: But… I don;t know…
Cobalt: Does evolving make you afraid?
Kestrel: …..*looks down, nods*
Cobalt: Then that's why you have to do it.
Ash: He's right, Kestrel. We won our third symbol due to your actions. Your attitude to never give up. You never had to redeem yourself in my eyes. You're a part of our family and always will be.
Azula: And if you do it… We can keep winning and you'll be able to inspire us more. Son…. You. Are. Ready.
Hearing these words, Kestrel gained a wavering smile and watery eyes as he hugged his adoptive parents, who hugged him back as Cobalt was cautious of his chest spike. After being released, Kestrel looked upon the group around him, giving him small smiles as he nodded with determination. At long last… He touched the stone.
Suddenly, his body was coated in light as the stone was absorbed into him, causing his body to enlarge and change. As the light faded, Kestrel is revealed to become much more ovoid in body shape with his neck no longer visible and his face now flat. His feet became much smaller and close together as and his wings and arms fused together to become broader and larger. Red and blue triangular markings decorated his underside, small tail feathers now sported his backside, and the back of his head gained three spikes: a red-tipped one on the right, a blue-tipped one on the left, and a pure white one in the middle. Just like his previous form, he still wore the purple kerchief around his neck.
Kestrel: Okay, this….. *looks over himself* This is not what I was expecting. Do I… Look good?
Green: Uh…. Sure. You uh…. You seem like a good egg. *stfles laghter*
Kestrel: What?
Ash: Green, don;t! *takes out Pokedex* Okay, now let's see what we got here.
Pokedex: Togekiss, the Jubilee Pokemon and the final evolved form of Togepi. A Fairy and Flying type. Togekiss have long been known worldwide as bringers of blessings, being depicted on good-luck charms since ancient times. However, they only appear in peaceful places and have never been witnessed anywhere near conflict or turmoil, making their recent sightings exceptionally rare. This Togekiss is level 50, Male, and has the ability, Serene Grace. It knows the moves Moonblast, Aerial Ace, Dazzling Gleam, and Sky Attack.
Ash: You have Sky Attack?!
Kestrel: I…. I guess so. That's pretty cool.
Cobalt: Congrats, son. You're officially a man… In a sense.
Grookey: Mazel Tov!
Kestrel: Thanks, Dad…. Hey, Ash. Wanna see if you can ride on my back like Aiden?
Kestrel led the way as they continued their journey down the bridge, ready to take on to Virbank City as they quarreled amongst themselves.
Azula: Kestrel, no! We're not risking you slipping a disk after you just evolved.
Serena: I wouldn;t mind a ride.
Cobalt: Come on, Az. It could help him build muscle mass and stamina.
Azula: I said, NO!
Gary: I really gotta learn how to get Pokemon understanding powers…
Ash: For the sake of your sanity, you probably shouldn't.
—-
Meanwhile, back in Johto, Nolan is seen flying in an old-looking plane, looking down at the sights below him with Articuno gliding by his side.
Nolan: Looks like daybreak is about to come. What's say we head back?
The Articuno sqwaked in agreement, as he was just about fatigued enough to fall asleep as soon as he landed. However, as they began to turn around, Nolan noticed something seemed to be zooming and glowing on the nearby ocean, small sparks emitting on the surface.
Nolan: What's going on over there?
Articuno: I am not sure, but it seems to be moving at an alarming speed.
Nolan: Hmm…. Eh, probably just a school of Lantern about ready to dive. Come on, 'cuno, let's head back.
However, it wasn't a school of Lantern causing the glowing, but a familiar bipedal Pokemon running across the surface of the ocean. His legs moved so fast that t ewater only seemed to slightly slow it down as electricity flowed out from its fur. Though this didn't bother the Pokemon as it only had one thing on his mind…
Revenge.
TO BE CONTINUED…..
—-
Ash's Team
Lucario: Cobalt
Sceptile: Green
Alakazam: Psi
Gengar: Yami
Charizard: Aidan
Inteleon: Azula
Togekiss: Kestrel
Lycanroc *Dusk form*: Hunter
Marowak: Kabu
Dracovish: Jaws
Rotom: Sparky (at Oak's lab)
Umbreon *shiny*: Blacky (at home)
Serena's Team
Fennekin: Kyubi
Murkrow: Lucky
Oshawott: Oliver
Gary's Team
Blastoise
Jolteon
Arctozolt
Grookey