Author's Note:
Here it is, the second gym battle. We also get a look in on the new captures, glad so many of you like them. One guest review said that I wasn't making Ash the focus because he didn't catch a Pokémon last chapter. I didn't do it on purpose, the way I decide 90% of the teams is create Pokémon and what sort of location they'd live in (i.e. where in the adventure they'd appear) then pair them up with the cast at the time to see who I like paired with who best. This can change several times throughout planning and some of the Pokémon never meet the light of day because I create to many... although I hint at them with other trainers and rivals. At one point, Ash was getting a Pokémon in Granite cave (a Sableye) but ultimately, I swapped that for Duskull. I even recycled a lot of my ideas for it into Duskull, hence his earlier than should be appearance. Just know that my series has three main character, two of which are in Hoenn. The other is off in Unova for the time being, but others can have chapters or stories for themselves and that won't change anything. One final note, it's about the poll. The current one is tightly evenly tied up and not to spoil anything but it's kind of important to have a definitive winner so if you haven't already, vote in the poll and with that, let's begin!
Chapter 17: Ash verses Brawly: Tenacity
Ash finished his set of push ups and wiped his forehead from the sweat. Grabbing his water bottle, he squirted some into his mouth as he felt the hot Hoenn sun over his skin. He looked around to see the rest of the group.
Pikachu was locked in a three on one battle against Duskull, Corphish and Treecko. This exercise was meant to help them with team work. Well, team work for Corphish and trust for Treecko. The two of them really don't get on but Treecko has proven to be good at working in a team with anyone else, even Taillow but he never truly trusted. Always going off to his own thing but willing to take the hit so someone else wouldn't have to. As for Duskull, he was getting some much-needed experience, ready for the actual gym battle against Brawly.
A little further away was Granbull and Taillow. The two were locked in fist to wing combat, each trying to overpower each other. While normally, no-one would think a small bird could overpower an opponent as big as Granbull, Taillow was proving to be an exception to the rule.
His eyes fluttered over his companions, Serena was sat on a towel next to the ocean, where her Feebas was swimming. Surrounded by Meditite, Dustox, Murkrow and Sylveon, they were ready clearly discussing the next performance idea. His eyes lingered at her in the bikini, even just the back of her mesmerised him. Thoughts of stopping his training, going over and just making out on top of that towel entered his head.
Shaking his head, trying to get the thoughts out of his. He continued to look around and was surprised to see Max trying to do his own push ups on the beach, although with how he was struggling, they could hardly be called push ups. He found it funny, the thought of the young kid being jealous of him. He was surprised when he learnt of his crush on Serena, never having seen any signs from him. While he knew most guys would hit out when learning of such a thing, but he knew he didn't need to worry about Max or anyone else. They knew that no person would get between them like that.
Off to the side, he saw Hitmontop locked in a battle of his own. He was facing off against both Serena's Cacnea and Brock's Aron. The steel rock type has proven to be quite the tough trooper. Almost like a protector for the others in Brock's team. Almost made Ash wish he caught the little guy but no-doubt he'll make a great name for himself with Forrest back in the Pewter gym.
A little further back, he saw Brock sat with Lotad, Mudkip and Slakoth. He was playing fetch with the pure water type as Lotad sat atop of his head, a blank stare across the ocean on his face. While Slakoth laid next to him, soaking in the sun.
What truly caught his attention was May. She was actually training with all four members of her team. Silcoon and Poochyena were locked in some sort of combat and to surprise him further, the brunette girl wasn't focused on them. Although looking at the other battle between Mawile and Torchic, it soon became apparent as to why. Her newest team member wasn't really battling and had used attract to keep Torchic at bay... along with Brock's Crobat and Dugtrio. May was clearly frustrated her training plan hadn't gone as smoothly as once thought but he'd be lying if he said, it wasn't a tiny bit funny.
He was about to return to his own workout when a distant voice drew his attention, "hey dudes!"
Looking out across the ocean, he saw Brawly surfing on a board but heading inward. Everyone else seemed to notice too and approached the point where he would reach land. As he walked, he noticed Serena slipping her normal clothes back on over her bikini and he opted to do the same with his black shirt.
"I'm really glad that I found ya'll out here," the surfing gym leader sighed as they created a small circle on the water's edge.
"What's wrong, Brawly?" he found himself asked.
"I heard about these narly waves that were hitting this afternoon and went out to get a head start," he explained, "but whilst out there, I saw the storm that was bring 'em here. The beach here would be completely swallowed and it's not safe, little man."
"But I thought Pokémon could sense the weather," Max added, "how come none of these guys sensed it."
"Everyone's a critic," Pikachu muttered.
"That's because none of them are local. Most wouldn't have seen a hurricane and even those which have been stuck in a storm before, haven't been around here with one," Brock explained, "the closest would be Taillow but they leave long before a storm hits, so none would've knew what to look for."
"A-a hurricane!" May cried out, "what do we do?"
"First thing we need to do is make it off this beach and to a safer spot dudes," Brawly answered, "lucky for us, I have a special training area just inward of the land. We can make it before the storm hits and wait it out."
"You sure it'll be strong enough?" Serena asked, "and that we'll all fit?"
"Don't worry about it, I built it as a secret base when I was kid but after my journey and getting the gym leader job, my team and I re-built it and expanded on the old place," he explained, "it's plenty strong enough and enough room for my entire gym team. So, follow me!"
Nodding with the fighting type specialist agreement, they quickly recalled most of their team with few exceptions and packed up what little belongings they still had out. As they set off into the jungle area of the island, the first patter of rain, along with black clouds filling the skies started.
"It's just over here!"
Ash saw a sort of mountain with metal doors stuck in the edge. A heavy rain fell down over them as ran. He had his jacket open and using it as a makeshift umbrella for both himself and Serena. As a curtsy, she was carrying Pikachu in her arms as they ran along. Brock gave Max his jacket as an umbrella, as he used his backpack. With both May and Sakura using their own backpacks for cover. Brawly lead the pack and pushed the iron door open.
Stepping inside he was panting heavily as he lowered his jacket. Squeezing out the rain water. He also noticed Pikachu shaking after jumping down, Serena stepped away with a joyous laugh as she attempted to avoid being splashed. He couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction.
Looking around, the others seemed to respond in a similar manner. As he stepped further into the cave, he was surprised at the decorations. It was a large room with a massive battlefield taking up most of the space. Although workout equipment was scattered around the edge, such as weights of different sizes, including the large discs placed on the two arm bar weights, with a few benches. A series of three peloton bikes were lined up, along with three rowing machines and three treadmills making up the trifecta. A rack of kettle bells, also varying in sizes. A cabinet of different medicines could also be seen, along with some clothing hooks, surrounded by boxing gear.
"Wow, this is like a gym... I mean an actual gym, not league gym," May commented.
"This is my secret training place. The gym is where I hold most battles and run programmes for my human students," he explained, "but this place, I created with my Pokémon when I was a kid. Like a secret cave. After getting the gym leader job, we sorted the old place out as our special training ground."
"I really like it," Brock commented, "my family runs the Pewter gym, but we never had anything like this. Just the regular gym building."
"We also have several bedrooms ready and a kitchen," he explained, "so we can easily wait out the storm but since we're here, why don't we have our gym battle, Ash?"
"B-but, it's not the gym," he stuttered, "are you alright with that?"
"The important bit is the challenge between myself and my challenger," Brawly explained, "all my Pokémon live here and so the challenge I would've given you back at the gym would be the same as here. Plus, it'll be a nice way to pass the time."
"Great!" he cheered, pumping his fist into the air, "then I'd be happy to get my second badge!"
"Confidence, I like it," he smirked. Turning to the side, he faced Brock, "and due to the storm, I can't ask one of my referee's to make their way out here. But if you wouldn't mind, Brock, would you act as our referee? As a former gym leader, I'll have faith in your judgement."
"Yeah, I'd be honoured," he smiled.
"Great," he smiled, "so Ash, if you want to talk with your team beforehand then pick a corner and do all the prep you need. The best workout has a great warm up after all. I'll go with Brock and explain the rules of this battle, so he's ready to go."
"Thanks," he nodded.
Walking over to the far side of the room, he took a moment and released his team of: Granbull, Duskull, Taillow, Treecko and Corphish. Pikachu joined in the line-up and they went over the battle plan. Some were more pleased than others, but the plan was laid out. As he recalled all but Pikachu, he turned to see his friends sat on the benches overlooking the large battlefield. His electric starter running across to join them.
He stepped up to the trainer's box on his side, cracks of thunder echoing from the outside. He watched Brawly step up with a smirk on his face, taking a place in the opposite trainer's box. One Pokéball in hand as two more dangled off his belt. With Brock taking his place on the ref box in front of the audience.
"This will be a three on three gym battle between the gym leader, Brawly Touki and the challenger, Ash Ketchum from Pallet town," Brock declared, raising both arms up, pointed towards both trainers, "due to the challenge being a multi-league competitor, they've agreed on an unorthodox team to test his abilities. While there is no time limit, only the challenger may substitute Pokémon and in between rounds."
"Roxanne told me about the team she created to challenge you," Brawly explained, "I'll be doing something similar with a three-badge team, five and seven."
"It's fine with me," he smirked, "we're up for any challenge you've got!"
"With both sides ready, we'll begin shortly," Brock continued, "as customary, the gym leader shall reveal his Pokémon first."
"Then I guess it's time to step up to the ring," Brawly smiled, enlarging a Pokéball in his hand, "On guard, Meditite!"
In a flash of light, his first opponent materialised in front of him. It held a striking resemblance to Serena's newly caught fighting, obviously but with a few differences. Mainly being bigger in size and in a meditative sitting pose, levitating off the ground with psychic energy radiating around it. He glanced to the side and saw Serena releasing her own fighting psychic type to watch the battle. While he would normally scan it with a Pokedex for a refresher, he's gotten to know Serena's new catch pretty well and not doing that might throw a curve at the gym leader. Instead, he reached down to his belt.
"Then I'll choose you, Duskull!" he shouted, tossing the device into the air. In a flash of light, his comedic ghost appeared on the field.
"I'll warn you, Ash, Meditite is the member of my five-badge team. I'm not using them in sequential order," Brawly warned.
"It doesn't matter to us," he replied, "we'll beat them in whatever order you decide, right Duskull."
"This is my first time, so please be gentle," Duskull opted, clearly intending for the inuendo... although Meditite didn't react in the slightest.
Duskull, floated around, shaking his head as if to get ready. Clearly use to the big reactions his jokes get, especially from the likes of Pikachu, who seems to encourage that behaviour. His red eye rattled around, in a cartoon-y manner before narrowing. Casting a glance back at Ash.
"Now before we start, shouldn't I put on some sort of protection?" he asked.
"Focus!" he shouted but was met with a childish chuckle from the ghost instead.
The two Pokémon faced off and Meditite's eye burst open. It was focused solely on Duskull and seemed to stare straight through him. Out of the two of them, it was clear which held a more intimidating stance but being both fighting and psychic, he has the greatest advantage he could hope for right now.
"Ash made a smart choice," he heard Max pipe up, "a ghost type is immune to fighting but also super effective to psychic types."
"True but I wouldn't count the outcome yet," Sakura mentioned, "gym leaders are expecting to go into match ups at a disadvantage. All type specialist do and are more than prepared to counter those major weaknesses."
"But Ash has a habit of fighting at a disadvantage himself," Serena opted, "really, once trainer's hit a certain level. Type matchup is possibly the least important aspect of a battle. I remember Ash took on the ice gym in Johto with his Togetic and Sandslash. He still won, like he will here."
He couldn't help but inwardly smirk at his girlfriend's praise. With her supporting him, he felt like he could take on the world. His eyes narrowed and looked towards their referee for the start. Brock took a deep breath and looked from Brawly over to himself. Clearly also taking in the sight of both Meditite and Duskull. All of them gave a nod, to signify they were ready.
"Duskull verses Meditite," the ref declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Brawly: Round one
He watched his pure ghost type float around, pulling funny faces at their opponent. It seemed pretty childish, but he knew throwing opponents off could be useful and its not to different to how Pikachu would use his own sense of humour against opponents... or attempt to, at least.
Meditite refused to leave her meditative stance and remained still. Coming to a stop, Duskull looked towards him for help, scratching the top of his head.
Her eye burst open and a mysterious blue light illuminated it. Staring directly at him, a psychic aura radiated around him.
"Huh?" Duskull questioned, "what was-"
He was cut off by a punch in the face.
Spinning around as he floated back, shaking his head and body, he came to a complete stop.
"Hey! I'm meant to be immune to that!" Duskull cried out.
Meditite stood still, with a closed fist planted in an open palm. A red light surrounded her as his ghost complained.
"She's powering up!" Ash called out, "worry about that later and protect yourself with will-o-wisp!"
He floated back across the field. Blue balls of fire surrounding him, orbiting around in a spooky manner.
The fighting psychic type, scrapped one foot across the ground, entering a battle stance. With a mighty cry, his ghost launched the will-o-wisp one by one towards his target. While their opponent rolled forward, skilfully closing in as she avoided each attack.
Duskull continued to form and launch his fire balls. Repelling backwards as he attempted to keep distance from her.
"I need an adult! I need an adult!" he cried out, "I need an adult!"
"You see, Meditite is quite the surfer. We both are, it's a fun sport to try out," he explained, "but it requires great control. Her foot work is second to none."
She finished rolling and leaped up, avoiding another fire ball. Spinning, she landed with a fist on the floor, sending out a psychic wave out. It intercepted the remaining will-o-wisps and knocked his requiem Pokémon backwards.
"Alright let's step it up a notch, Duskull," he explained, "we still need to land a will-o-wisp but switch to shadow sneak!"
Shaking his head clear, he dived into the floor, creating a large black shadow. As Meditite flew over, clearly having leaped in another attack.
She landed on one knee but couldn't turn in time. Three fire balls hit her back, as she cried out in pain with flames engulfing her body.
The shadow zipped across the floor. He leaped out and smashed into the meditate Pokémon's back, knocking her flying.
"Sorry, your smoking sweet cheeks," Duskull apologised, "next time we could take it slower... and use lubricant."
"Duskull!" Ash cried out, "not appropriate!"
"You're a strange one, little man," Brawly shrugged, "but it'll take more than that to stop Meditite!"
As if to emphasis the point, Meditite swung her leg around, delivering a round-house kick straight to Duskull's face. He was knocked backwards as she continued forward, landing on the kicking leg, swinging her second leg around. A second kick landed and knocked him back again.
"Payback!" he cried out.
With her original leg going in for a third consecutive kick, it smashed into his face again. Tensing up, he was able to stop himself from flying backwards any further. His fist shot up and into her chin with an uppercut.
She landed back on her back, with flames bursting over her once more. Rolling over onto her side, she jumped back up.
Duskull took initiative and began shooting of confuse rays. Several golden balls floated towards her, but none in straight lines.
Meditite once again rolled out of the way, closing in on Duskull. She leaped up and landed down on a fist, using a psychic wave to destroy the balls.
"Disabled!" Ash cried.
His ghost type looked her straight in the eyes and sent out a red beam out of his red eye. It struck their opponent, who seemed to freeze in place.
"Well done, Ash, it's clear you've got strategies and plans," Brawly smiled, "even if your newer team members are still wet behind the ears."
Two black zigzagged beams shot out of the eye holes on his skull face, with purple outlines. The Nightshade's struck her and sent her flying back. Her body glew white and she slammed onto the ground. She slowly stood back up as her body began to change. The glowing soon stopped as she towered up.
While still a bipedal Pokémon, she had changed almost everything else about her. She had a long, limber grey body with red and yellow adornments. A red headpiece with three bulb-like extensions covers the upper portion of it's head: one on top, and one on either side. The bulb on top was pretty short. Her large, focused eyes were slightly covered by the headpiece, and her red lips seemed to be in a rounded or puckered position. Her legs appeared to be covered with red, puffy skin, which resembled actual clothing. With a large yellow spot on the knees and yellow bands next to the hips. He pulled out his Pokedex:
Medicham, The Meditate Pokémon. The final evolved form of Meditite. It is said that through meditation, Medicham heightens energy inside its body and sharpens its sixth sense. This Pokémon hides its presence by merging itself with fields and mountains
"Hey Ash, do you know the rules when a gym leader's Pokémon evolves during a gym battle?" he asked.
"I remember Blaine had his Ponyta evolve when I challenged him for my sixth badge back in Kanto," he shrugged, "but is there a special rule?"
"Depending on the number badge the trainer is after," he clarified, "beginning trainers, so a trainer going for a badge from one to three, would have the easiest time and the gym leader would just forfeit them from the battle. Should it be the last Pokémon, they can substitute them for a Pokémon of appropriate level. An intermediate trainer, or badge number from three to six range. Then it's up to the leader to decide on a case by case bases. They could keep it in like nothing happened or forfeit it. While those as an experienced trainer, or badge number six and above, have to keep going like nothing happened."
"Why are you telling me this?" he asked.
"Because little man, we've got a unique situation. Normally, experienced trainer rules would apply for you but since you're going with an inexperienced team, I feel it equals out to an intermediate challenge for you," he explained, "which would mean I get to decide the outcome."
"So, what will your decision be?" Brock asked.
"I'm giving you a choice, Ash," he continued, "either we continue like nothing happened, but I'm pretty sure this evolution boosted her up to a six - seven badge team, so my second Pokémon will be another five-badge member. Or we both forfeit our current members and continue as a two against two."
He mulled over the two options, never considering the tight guidelines a gym leader would have to follow. Obviously, Blaine back then and even Koga made their decisions without his input but having to make the choice was completely different. He would've been happy with either of them. He looked across and smiled, this battle was the most fun he's seen Duskull have... at least the most fun without annoying someone else or being inappropriate-
"We're good to keep going!" he called out, "right Duskull!"
"You heard 'em Medicham!" Brawly called out, a smile ever present on his face, "let's show 'em what knew tricks are up your sleeve!"
"Then the battle shall resume!" Brock declared.
Duskull went straight back to launching confuse rays at her. Two golden balls floated straight towards her in a spooky fashion.
Instead of dodging, however, she held her hands out. A psychic field formed and swiping her hands to the side, it took the attacks with them. She quickly kneeled and leaped up into the air, flames trailing off her body. Falling knee first, she was on a direct course for Duskull.
"Shadow Sneak!" Ash called out.
His ghost disappeared into the ground, forming a large shadow. Zipping out of the way, she crashed back into the field, grimacing through gritted teeth.
The requiem Pokémon made a sharp u-turn in his shadow and went straight back. Leaping out of the ground, he went to tackle her back head-on.
At the last second, Medicham spun on a heel and punched him direct in the face. Her second fist clenched tight and was coated in metal. Quickly, delivering a second punch, her original fist turned into metal and she continued to travel forward and smash. She went on to deliver of flurry of bullet punches.
Seconds later he was sent flying and smashed into the far wall. Flopping down onto the floor with swirls in his eyes.
"Duskull is unable to battle," Brock declared, "making the winners of this round, Brawly and his Medicham!"
Ash bite on his lower lip as he held the device out. The red beam shot across the room and engulfed his fallen ghost type, quickly recalling him. Once safe inside the device, he turned it and looked down at the device, softly closing his eyes.
"You did a great job, buddy," he whispered, "if that evolution hadn't taken place then I think you would've won. Even if that foresight caught us off guard."
An echoing handclap drew his attention, as he clipped the device onto his back. He looked across to see the source was Brawly, with a sincere smile on his face. While Medicham stood in front of him, furiously sweating whilst her posture took a hit. Flames dying out around her. Realising he was looking at her, she tightened her expression and stood back up, entering another battle stance.
"It's clear your Duskull was wet behind the ears but with your guidance, I'm sure you'll make a great team," he praised, "but don't think that because you got a few good hits off means the outcome would be any different. Most, if not all, of my team like to take hits to test their opponents strength. Really, only the will-o-wisp was the move you got off that neither of us would've preferred."
Sighing, he decided not to respond. His hand waved over the two remaining Pokéballs which he planned on using. While it's likely Medicham has moves to counter both of them, he's already seen bullet punch so that makes his decision so much easier. He unclipped his second device and held it out.
"I wouldn't be so sure, Brawly, we're just getting started!" he declared, tossing the device into the air, "I choose you, Taillow!"
His female bird soared around the large open room, spreading her wings, and letting out a loud cry which echoed in the room. She swooped down and landed right between Ash and their opponent, her eyes narrowed and snarled towards the fighting psychic type. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught sight of Serena letting out her Murkrow, who perched on her shoulder. He knew the two birds had been spending time together, so it wasn't out of the ordinary.
"Your Taillow?" Brawly smiled, "I was hoping you'd use her. I mean, Roxanne told me about how she took down Armaldo. A great feat. It made me excited to face a tough opponent like that myself."
"Well she's always eager to take on tough opponents," Ash smirked, "let's see if you can deliver it for her."
"I like your spirit!" Brawly smiled, "let's get ready into it!"
Both Pokémon narrowed their eyes and entered a battle stance. Medicham's leg swept back across the flat ground, as her arms entered a defensive stance, with fists clenched shut. Taillow spread out her wings, flapping them as if taking off but without actually leaving the ground.
"Taillow verses Medicham," Brock declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Brawly: Round two
He watched as both Pokémon burst into flames, with his female bird shooting off across the field. Flames trailed off in her tailwind as her wings spread out, glowing white. As she closed in, a series of fast punches came forward. She had to swerve out of the way, ascending out of reach of the meditate Pokémon.
"Taillow! Did you get Duskull to burn you before the battle?" he asked.
"Of course," she shrugged, entering a steep dive.
She spun and straightened out just above the ground. Shooting across the ground, she used a quick attack to avoid being hit.
"Why?!" he cried out.
Reappearing right between her legs, she used her wings to smash into Medicham's ankles. The fighting psychic type kneeled over.
"Well you didn't say I couldn't," she replied, ascending behind her opponent, "so what's the matter."
"I didn't say no because you didn't ask," he sighed.
Medicham sat down on the ground, legs crossed. An aura of psychic energy surrounded her as she raised up from the ground.
"And this is why I didn't ask," she replied, "now if you excuse me, I've got something to hit."
She soared around and charged back towards the floating meditate Pokémon. As she closed in, Medicham swerved out of the way, as she shot passed.
Turning around, she shot towards the back of the fighting psychic type. Wings glowing, it looked like a direct collision until Medicham swerved away again.
He was about to call out a change of tactics when his eyes locked with her's. Taillow gave off a confident wink as she soared back around, wings still glowing.
Charging in once more, she seemed to be going slower. He quirked an eyebrow up as Medicham launched out a swift series of bullet punches instead. She glew with a bright red aura, flames bursting around both of them. Taillow quickly swiped to the side and darted forward. Ash held his Pokedex out:
Quick Guard: This moves allows a Pokémon to avoid priority attacks. Increasing their reaction time
She stopped and thrusted her beak into Medicham's chest, as it glew and extended. Knocking the fighting psychic type out of her meditative stance.
Raising her wings, she slammed them down with a powerful facade. Sending the newly evolved opponent down, slamming on the ground as his female bird hovered in place. She waited until the dust cloud settled, revealing the meditate Pokémon with swirls in her eyes.
"Medicham is unable to battle," Brock declared, "making the winners of this round Ash and his Taillow!"
He couldn't help but smile as she landed back on his shoulder, looking incredibly pleased with herself, "what a time to learn quick guard."
"I'm just that good," she shrugged, "but I hope the next one has more to them. That was too easy for my liking."
"Over confidence will be your downfall," he sighed, "and we're gonna have a proper talk about you burning yourself before a battle."
"No pain, no gain," she shrugged, "but this is exactly the reason I didn't ask you. I know how you can get. You need to toughen up."
"If you were as good as you claim, you wouldn't need to rely on guts to win battles," he replied, "and I'll be sure to speak will Duskull too. So, he won't be your own personal toaster from now on."
"If I'm not willing to do whatever is necessary to win a battle, then I shouldn't be out there at all," she replied. Not waiting for another response, she soared off his shoulder and landed back on the field.
"While it's interesting, watching you two argue like an old married couple, I believe with we still have a battle to commence with," Brawly smiled, having already recalled his Medicham, "but I will say, your Taillow's tenacity is something to admire. Not many Pokémon would deliberately take on a burn or any status condition to take advantage of an ability like guts. But now for my second Pokémon, on guard!"
In a flash of light, Brawly's second Pokémon appeared, hopping back and forth on its two legs. Most of his body was green, but his head to his neck and his tail were a beige colour. On top of his head was a green, mushroom-like cap with beige gills underneath and a round, red berry-like growth with a hole in the middle on either side. He had oval, black eyes, a beak-like mouth, and frilled segments around the base of his neck. There were two red claws on each of his hands and feet. At the end of his tail, there were a cluster of spores. He easily recognised it from the berry garden south of Rustboro, pulling out his device:
Breloom, The Mushroom Pokémon. The final evolved form of Shroomish. Breloom closes in on its foe with light and sprightly footwork, then throws punches with its stretchy arms. This Pokémon's fighting technique puts boxers to shame
"A grass and fighting type?" Taillow asked, "a quad-weakness to flying? I feel insulted. Ketchum send me in against his final one instead of this. And it better be something good."
He wasn't about to argue with her and was secretly thankful. He promised Granbull a chance to battle as well and was worried that Taillow wouldn't stop unless taken down. Holding his device out, he quickly recalled the normal flying type.
"Switching Pokémon?" Brawly asked, "I can honestly say, I'm surprised. But to each their own. Oh, and before I forget, Breloom, the orb."
The grass fighting type turned around and ruffled his clawed hand around in his green feathered body, pulling out a purple orb from his pouch. He tossed it over to the gym leader who safely placed it onto the ground next to him. He quickly tossed some sort of berry back, which the mushroom Pokémon ate.
"You see, Ash, Breloom has two distinct fighting styles," he explained, "one of them involves poisoning himself with this toxic orb but his poison heal ability means instead of taking damage, he heals. The stalling capable with it would make him apart of my seven or eight badge team but like I said, because Medicham evolved, I want to keep it fair. So Breloom without this strategy maxes in around a five or six badge team... roughly."
"Well we're ready for you, regardless!" he called out, tossing the device into the air, "I choose you, Granbull!"
In a flash of light, his pure fairy type appeared on the field. She crouched low onto the floor with a threatening growl. Banging her closed fists against both the ground and her body, in an intimidating manner. While she might seem like a rage filled fighter, he knew she was just excited to battle again.
"I will say this will be an interesting challenge, Granbull's aren't exactly common Pokémon for trainer's to have," Brawly smiled, "and I like the energy she's giving off. A real fighting spirit."
Breloom lowered his head into a crouch, as if starting a rugby game ready to charge ahead. Brock looked around between them all, and in return they gave a small nod to indicate they were ready to battle. A smile rested on the breeder's face, as he raised both arms.
"Granbull verses Breloom," Brock declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Brawly: Round three
He couldn't stop the smile forming on his face as he watched the two Pokémon charge forward. Granbull received a punch to the face, as she tackled the mushroom Pokémon. His feet scrapped across the ground, slamming his tail down to stop them entirely.
The two pushed each other back and forth. With the grass fighting type slamming his hands down onto her back. She thudded down, flat on her stomach.
Growling in anger, she pushed herself up. Shooting forward, she delivered a headbutt straight into Breloom's gut. The two went rolling across the floor.
She was on top and straddled over her opponent. Clenching both fists, a pink aura surrounded her. She went straight down in a massive assault.
Each punch landed directly as she let loose with her play rough. His eyes drifted upward and noticed a smirk on Brawly's face. His eyes widened!
"Granbull get back!" he cried out.
It was too late. A red outline surrounded Breloom and she went flying. She landed flat on her back, as he stood back up, energised, and hopping back and forth. He couldn't be sure, but it seemed to be some attack to turn the opponent's strength back on themselves, like counter or reversal.
Breloom jumped forward, fist glowing white. Running across the field in the blink of an eye, he leaped.
His fairy type rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the hit. Breloom's fist hit the ground, leaving a crack in the floor, as she rolled onto her four legs.
She leaped forward and opened her mouth, each fang extending with ice. Biting down on the mushroom Pokémon, he cried out as they went rolling.
"Ice fang? Interesting choice," Brawly commented, "due to her already advantage over dragon types, I would've assumed thunder or fire fang would be more beneficial."
The two Pokémon went rolling around, with each punching the other. Glowing red and pink respectively, it looked more like a bar brawl than gym battle.
"She learnt it before I caught her," he explained, "but it doesn't matter! We can just find another counter for steel types, when the time comes!"
Granbull stood up, as Breloom laid panting beneath her. With a joyous grin over her wide jaw, she looked around and decided on the far wall.
Breloom slowly rose to his feet, as she began trembling with a red outline. His eyes seemed to shrink as he realised what she was doing. Turning on his heel, he took off across the field and glowing green balls of energy spewed out, exploding around him.
She seemed over joyed with the fireworks and leaped after her pray. Running across the ground on all fours, a power barrier formed around her.
Charging straight for her opponent, the explosions did little to deter, let alone stop. Tackling the mushroom Pokémon full force, they shot across the field.
Smashing into the far wall, a mini explosion seemed to take place from the impact. She slowly emerged from dust, coughing as Breloom slumped down behind her. Despite taking a massive hit, she was clearly pleased with herself, with the look on her face.
"Breloom is unable to battle!" Brock declared, "making the winners of this round, Ash and Granbull!"
Ash smiled as he watched Breloom disappear in a red light. Granbull stood tall and slammed her hands against her chest. He couldn't help but feel energised by her enthusiasm. She might not be the most strategic and her tendency to run in without thinking isn't exactly a reliable strategy, but he couldn't but smile that she is able to do what she enjoys most. His eyes glances to the side where his friends were sat.
"Man, that was tough," Sakura commented, "when I battled him, he only used a Machop and Tyrogue. Beautifly and Espeon had a pretty easy time."
"It makes sense, gym leader's change the challenge based on their opponent," Serena nodded, "but Ash would always go for the toughest challenge available. Just wait until you get a few badges in and you'll see a how the leaders increase the challenge."
"Right," she nodded, "but I'm also have the ribbons to collect so that should help in keeping ahead of the curve."
He turned back from the field and faced off against Brawly. The gym leader smiled proudly as he over looked the field. With their eyes locking together, a thick tensions filled the room, drowning out the chatter from his friends. Brawly's smile flicked up into a smirk, as his eyes narrowed.
"I can't believe I'm down to my last Pokémon already," Brawly smiled, "your something else, little man. But don't think this last one will be easy."
"Oh, we know it won't," he smiled back, "right Granbull?!"
The pure fairy type growled in agreement, as she made her way back across the field. As she walked, he couldn't help but notice the change in demeanour, even if clearly still energised and eager to battle, she had taken a lot from Breloom. She has a bad habit of always wanting to test her opponent's strength, even if it means taking a hit or three.
She reached the original starting position and narrowed her eyes, silently asking to stay in. While he considered switching her out for Taillow
"Well I wouldn't want to keep either of you waiting," Brawly interjected, tossing a Pokéball into the air, "on guard, old friend!"
In a flash of light, a large, bulky bipedal Pokémon thudded onto the field. He had narrow eyes and rounded ears. On his head was a short, triangular crest. He had dark blue hair growing across the tops of his eyes, around the head crest, and extends down his back to form a long ponytail. The upper half of his body was cream colour, while the lower half was dark blue. Yellow extensions encircled his waist, somewhat resembling a skirt. He had a small, orange half-circle marking in the centre of his torso just above the skirt. Hariyama had large, padded hands, with three fingers and small, two-toed feet. Both his hands and feet were a bright orange colour. Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan his newest opponent:
Hariyama, The Arm Thrust Pokémon. The final evolved form of Makuhita. Although they enjoy comparing their strength, they're also kind. They value etiquette, praising opponents they battle
"This should be in the bag for Ash now!" he heard Max cheer, "originally Brawly said his team would be from three, five and seven badge teams, right? And even with the changes he made because of the evolution, the only one he hasn't used yet is that of his three-badge team."
"You might be right, little dude but don't take that to mean that this will be easy," Brawly countered, enlarging a Pokéball in hand, "while this Pokémon is a part of the three-badge team. His precise challenge is facing two Pokémon at once, due to his emence strength. Which is why I was happy to take away the toxic orb from Breloom after the evolution. So, without further ado, Hariyama and I are ready. What about you Ash?!"
"We're just as ready, right Granbull?" he asked.
She let out a vigorous battle cry and slammed her fists against the ground in an intimidating manner. Brawly's pure fighting type stepped forward, with heavy steps, crouching low like some sort of sumo-wrestler. A smile formed on Ash's lips as he remembered the wrestling competition, he partook in with Snorlax.
"Granbull verses Hariyama," Brock declared, "let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Brawly: Round four
He watched as the battle started and unlike last time, both Pokémon didn't rush straight in. Granbull did, charging across the field, slightly slower than previously due to the reminiscence of the last battle weighing over her but Brawly's pure fighting type stood still, in his starting crouch.
She smashed into the fighting type, but he refused to move. Scrapping her feet against the ground, she growled in frustration as she struggled against him.
"Pure strength is commendable, little man but the large opponent always has a physical strength advantage," Brawly commended, "let's show 'em!"
Hariyama let out a loud cry and raised his two hands, which glew white with orange-fighting type energy. One by one, he slammed open palms down.
His large hands knocked Granbull onto her stomach, as he loomed over. With a side swipe with her arm thrust, he sent her scrapping across the field.
Granbull landed on her side, looking around as she snarled in anger. Pushing herself up onto all fours, she ran off across the field.
"You and your team sure do get amped up, little man!" Brawly called out, "so let's go with a late take off, bud!"
The fighting type gave a serious nod and flexed both arms as a red outline surrounded him. Raising both of his large disc hands in front of him.
Ash's pure fairy type was glowing with orange-fighting type energy as she smashed into the arm thrust Pokémon. She rebounded off onto her back feet and began punching away against the flesh-pads. Anger clear in her assault, although it was clear it wasn't affecting him.
He waited until she showed the first sign of exhaustion, pausing her close combat. Clenching his fist closed, it glew once more and he uppercut her.
She went soaring across the field and smashed into the wall, landing in front of the weights which rattled. His eyes widened as he stepped closer.
"Granbull, are you alright?!" he asked.
"Yeah," she growled, slowly coming around, "did you get the plate-number of the truck, though?"
"Heh, at least you can make jokes," he smiled, "if you want to take a break, I can switch Taillow in for you."
"Thanks for the offer but no thanks," she snarled, pushing herself in, "but maybe a way to hurt him wouldn't hurt."
"I really admire your tenacities, little man but with a double overhead, sometimes it's better to bail out rather than just wipe out!"
"We're just getting warmed up, Brawly, so get ready to hang ten before we barrel through an a-frame!" Ash replied, tightening his fist in determination, "right, Granbull!"
"What are ya'll talking about?" Brawly asked, "you might be an experienced trainer but when it comes to surfing, it sounds like you're a kook."
"Whatever, we're in a battle right so that's what's important here!" Ash declared, "now get close to him but stick to the side. Work up to a big hit."
Granbull gave a not so subtle wink and charged back across the field. Disappearing around the fighting type, she continued to bounce around as he attempted to land some arm thrusts, although he was clearly lagging behind. She glew with a red outline as she darted around.
"Go for his ankles!" he shouted.
Landing behind him, her fangs extended with ice once more. Diving forward, she bite the ankle, but the ice shattered as she stumbled between his legs.
Hariyama reached down and grabbed her by the scruff. Lifting her up into the air, until they were at the same eye level.
"Smart plan, dumb move," Brawly explained, "you see, his thick skin gives him resistance to both fire and ice attacks. It's an ability called thick fat!"
Granbull let out a threatening growl as her tongue shot out of her mouth. Their opponent shivered, paralysed and she used it as an opening to break free from the grip. Tackling the arm thrust Pokémon down to the floor as a pink outline surrounded her body.
Tackling him to the ground, she straddled the fighting type best she could and began punching his head repeatedly. He struggled to look away.
It took nearly a minute before she started to slow down. Panting heavily, she slowly climbed off her opponent and started to walk back across the field, slugging with each step. She barely made it half way before falling onto her stomach, as Brock looked between the two of them.
"Both Pokémon are unable to battle," Brock declared, "with Taillow still able to battle, the winner of the battle is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!"
Ash released a heavy breath as he took off over the field. Kneeling down next to his fallen fairy type, he slipped his backpack off his back and unzipped it, reaching in to pull out a revive and potion. Placing the latter on the floor, he held the revive under her nose and broke it open.
She took a deep breath and eyes burst open, seeming more awake than even before the battle begun before slumping down.
"Hey, take it easy girl," he reassured, picking up the potion instead. Holding it over her, he sprayed it over her entire body as she whined, "there. With plenty of rest, you'll be as good as new in no-time. So, take a nice long rest, you deserve it."
She disappeared in a beam of red light as he stood up, placing his medical supplies back into his bag. Slinging his backpack over one shoulder, he turned to see Brawly stood, attaching his Pokéball back to his belt. Smiling, he made his way over.
"Well Ash, that was one fun battle," he explained, holding his hand out. Sat in his palm was a blue circular badge with a rectangle box next to the right side, resembling a sort of boxing glove. With a bright orange circle at the bottom of the badge, "and as proof of your victory, you have won this knuckle badge."
"Thanks, Brawly," he replied, accepting the badge. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his badge case, placing it next to his stone badge, "and I know Granbull enjoyed it too. She loves a good battle, especially close quarter brawls."
A loud crack of thunder echoed.
"Well it sounds like the storm will be an all-nighter," he sighed, as his friends gathered behind him, "obviously your all welcome to stay the night. If you want to pick out a room for ya'll to stay in. And your all more than welcome to use the training equipment."
"Thank you, Brawly," he smiled.
"Don't mention it," he shrugged it off. His eyes popped open and he reached into his back pocket, pulling out a few pieces of paper, "and before I forget, this is the training programme I worked out for you. Once you've settled in, I can run through it, make sure it all makes sense."
Ash couldn't help but smile, as he accepted the papers. Back at the lake of rage, he felt powerless to stop what happened. He kept think, if only he could've... but that lead him down a dark road. With this training programme, he will be able to shape himself into the role that he was chosen to fulfil. Drake is really smart, he proved that at the radio tower when planning the line of defence and Serena has her ESP. With the combination of Delphox and Alakazam, she's become very skilled in using her powers so with this, he won't be lagging behind... he won't let what happened to Gyarados happen to anyone else.
Ash sighed in relief as he stepped out of the bathroom. Dressed in his pyjama bottoms. While he would've put on a top to match, Serena's been pretty insistent on his lack of shirt. Walking across the bedroom they set up in, he looked around.
As he stepped into the room, he looked around. It was a pretty basic room, but anything was better than being stuck out in the storm. If you listened closely, you could still hear the patter of rain and thunder cracking. While there weren't any windows in the cave base, he was sure that if there was then they could see lighting striking down. Looking towards the bed, he saw Serena lying on her stomach and kicking her legs in the air as she read some papers. Dressed in her pink pyjama shorts and his black tank top. Stepping closer, he saw her reading the training programme Brawly made for him.
Creeping up behind her, he dived down and began tickling her stomach. A joyous giggle echoed in his ears as he continued to tickle her, with a wide smile taking over his face. She rolled over onto her back as she tried to push him off. The black tank top slowly rolled up, revealing her belly button.
"Hehehe, stop. Stop," she laughed, as he slowed down. Smiling down at her, he leaned down and pressed his lips against hers. As he pulled back, he moved a stray strand of hair from her forehead and used his hand to hold her cheek. Her blue eyes shimmering up at him, "what was that for?"
"I guess I'm just happy about getting my second badge," he explained, leaning down to place his forehead against her's, "and what's up with reading those? Do you want to try them out for yourself?"
"Thanks, but no thanks. As a performer, I need to remind limber and flexible to dance. I'm sure you remember," she smirked, as he felt his cheeks heat up, as her head reached up and touched his chest over his heart, "I was just thinking of the other benefits you'll get from this workout programme."
She climbed onto him, straddling either side as they sat on the edge of the bed. One hand pushed against the bed as the other landed on her waist. They continued to lose themselves in each other as his eyes fluttered shut. He wasn't sure how long they kept it up but his peaked open as his need for breath took over... surprised to see her eyes already open and looking upwards... or to the side since her head was tilted to the side, as she slowly pulled back.
"What's up with your Pokedex?" she asked, nodding towards the device on the bedside table.
"Not entirely sure," he replied. Shrugging, he reached over and picked it up. Flicking it over, he scrolled through the device, a wide smile over taking his face with every word he read, "it seems Phanpy evolved whilst at the lab! The lab sent an update but something about commotion involving quite a few Pokémon caused the delay."
"I have a bad feeling Gengar has something to do with that," Serena muttered, "but at least he's evolved. I bet Togetic was happy to experience it with him, as well."
"Well that's an easy bet to make," he smiled, "hey Serena, didn't Brock and Max say the next gym would be Mauville?"
"Yes! And it's an electric type gym, too," she smiled.
Nodding, he reached over to the desk and took Granbull's Pokéball in hand. Hitting a few buttons on his device, he set up an exchange and placed the second device on top. In a flash of light, the Pokéball was teleported away before another one appeared seconds later.
"Alright! Come on out Donphan!" he called, releasing his newly evolved ground type. As he materialised in front of them, he scanned him with the Pokedex:
Donphan, The Armor Pokémon. The final evolved form of Phanpy. If Donphan were to tackle with its hard body, even a house could be destroyed. Using its massive strength, the Pokémon helps clear rock and mud slides that block mountain trails
Type: Ground
Ability: Sturdy
Hidden Ability: Sand Veil (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Male
Nature: Gentle (Note: This is unlikely to change as the Pokémon is fully evolved)
Move(s): Mud Slap, Fury Attack, Horn Attack, Bulldoze, Growl, Defence Curl, Rapid Spin, Rollout, Slam, Assurance, Magnitude
"Hiya Donphan, it's good to see you again!" he greeted.
"Hello," Serena added, kneeling down to stroke his head.
"Ash! Serena!" Donphan smiled, cooing under her touch.
"So how are you feeling?" he asked, kneeling down to greet his ground type, "being evolved, I mean?"
"Real good!" he smiled, "it was weird at first, but big brother knew that I would and created a race around the ranch to help! Originally, it was just me and big brother against Uncle Primeape and grampa Tauros, but aunt Gengar got involved and loads of friends got involved. Including the scary monster on the hill!"
"Scary monster?" Ash asked.
"He means Sandslash," Pikachu interjected.
"Sandslash..." he mused, "well at least he's trying to have fun make friends. It's nice to know everyone is doing alright."
"Ya know, I doubt Sandslash was chasing them for a fun race," Pikachu deadpanned.
"Well either way, everyone had fun and I bet your rearing to get to battle with your new form, right?!"
"Okie-dokie!" Donphan cheered.
"Well the next gym we're facing is an electric type so if you work hard then I don't see why you couldn't take part!" he explained, "of course, we'll need to wait to see who else will be used with you... at the minute, I'm thinking Treecko but we could meet any number of Pokémon before then."
"And we've got a few stops along the way, remember," Serena added, "Slateport for May's first contest then Vurdenturf where there's another contest hall. As long as we don't get side tracked to bad, I'll be able to compete in my second showcase there!"
"Right!" he added, "which means we have plenty of time to get prepared but that also means hard work for all of us!"
"But first we need to get some rest," she interjected, "why don't you sleep on the rub, Donphan. If you want to, instead of your Pokéball, I mean."
The ground type nodded and wondered over to the rug. There was an armchair in front of it, which had Pikachu and Sylveon cuddled up together under a blanket. He barely saw the armor Pokémon lie down as a hand landed on each of his shoulders, pulling and turning him over.
He found himself lying on top of Serena. Her hands travelling up and down his back as her lips occupied his. He struggled find her rhythm but soon matched.
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...