Author's Note:
Here it is, the start of the Petalburg arc (which is only two chapter's long) and a chapter I'm sure many never thought would come. I do want to say the first scene is possibly the raunchy-est scene I've (probably) written for this series so if you don't want to read that sort of thing than this is your warning. Onto the rest of the chapter, I meant what I said when I said that I want to develop Max further than the anime did and that starts here. Remember how he acted after Ash's gym battle with Norman in the anime? Well, I think that was when most people didn't like him, but I want to make him better. I hope the development I've given him already has achieved that. As you can probably guess, this a Max focused chapter. We also get a little prep time ready for the gym battle and another layer of a challenge for the battle. Oh, and Professor Birch is here, no idea why though. Surely, it's nothing important (wink). We also get to see an evolution, which is always fun and more info on what gym leader's do, other than fighting trainers and handing out badges. We also are continuing with the mini-lab arc for Meditite. This mini-arc has some... difficult topics... so consider this a warning (that scene is the last part of this chapter). Lastly, the anime had Serena return and, while amazing, has left me with a dilemma. You see, I scowered through fanart to decide upon her outfit for Battle Frontier and Sinnoh and found two which I really, really like but her new outfit was also great so I'm unsure which to go with. The new outfit has similarities to the one I picked for Battle fronter so if I switched either, it would be this one but I'm really not sure. I won't make it into a poll but feel free to comment in PM or review for which you think I should go with. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin...
Chapter Forty-Eight: Home Sweet Home
She blinked awake.
She was lying on her stomach with her head on a pillow with her arms crossed under it. Turning it to the side, she smiled at the sight of her muscular boyfriend on his back with his own arms behind his head. Pushing herself up, she crawled over and plopped herself down, allowing their torso's to smooch together... her eyes widened at the realisation of something.
His lips raised up into a smirk and eyes fluttered open as he stared down at her, "morning. You're up early."
Unable to voice a response, her arms ekansed their way around his body. Carefully feeling his developing muscles as they did. Her teeth sinking into the bottom lip as he stretched. The hands on his back in the perfect position as he rolled his shoulders, feeling more of the benefits from his workouts.
Leaning down, he connected their lips. His own hands tracing her body as they latched onto her waist. As she lost herself in his dominating kisses, he twisted his body, causing her to roll onto her back as he straddled above. Her hand subconsciously travelling around to rest on his peck, over his heart.
"And I thought you would've wanted to sleep in after last night," he whispered.
"What happened last night?" she asked, winking. Her legs wrapping themselves around his waist, "why don't you... remind me."
He smirked and leaned down. Capturing her lips once more, his hand travelled around her back. Pushing her up so they mushed together once more, she glanced to the side. He moved away from her lips, leaving a trail of kisses as he travelled down into the crook of her neck.
Feeling an excited tingle down her body she glanced up to the headboard. Hanging on one of the posts was her pink-
Shooting up she panted heavily. Sweat poured down her forehead as she took in the sight of the Maple's guest bedroom. Glancing out of the window behind the bed, she saw the morning sun raising over the sea-horizon.
Quickly looking around she found herself in her regular sleeping attire and no such clothing was hanging down from the headboard. As she focused on the light snoring, she glanced down to see her boyfriend, still snoozing away with a dopey smile on his face. Rolling to the side, she sighed in relief.
It was just a dream. Feeling the same tingle from her dream she quickly hopped out of bed. Being as silent as possible, she scurried across the floor and onto the landing. With a light hop, she used ESP to levitate over the possibly squeezy floor. Floating down the stairs, she made her way over to the bathroom. Upon entering she closed the door and sighed, leaning against it, letting go of her psychic hold.
Her moment of relaxation passed as the dream forced its way back into her mind. The image of her more muscular than normal boyfriend over her, kissing her neck and working his way down, with his hands leading the way.
Her legs crossed together as she tried to pull her shirt down over her urging part and eyes squeezed shut. That only seemed to be a mistake as her mind continued on from where her dream left off. Bursting them open, she ran over to the skin and found her head fallen in a mess with her bright red cheeks.
Turning on the tap, she cupped the cool water in her hands. Splashing her face, she let out a sigh of relief. The feelings below finally fading from existence.
Moving over to the toilet, she sat on the lid and used her powers to turn the tap off. Using an available hand towel to dry her head. With her elbows leaning on her legs, she rested her head in her hands. Her tongue lightly poked out to deal with her dried lips.
She was no stranger to sensual dreams and even knew Ash had experienced a few. Usually, she'd allow them to help spice up their intimate time. It's how she came up with the idea of their anniversary celebration... but never did they go this far. She wasn't an idiot and knew exactly where that dream would've lead had she let it. With a hard swallow she looked up at the sound of some footsteps on the upstairs level.
Shaking her head, she knew where their line was and whilst she venture dangerously close to it from time to time... she'd never cross it. In one regard she was glad Ash was naive with such things... had he been more knowledgeable and encouraging of her adventurous side within their relationship then... she didn't want to think about it... whilst she was sure this dream had passed now one thought lingered... what about the next one?
Standing up she walked towards the door but caught sight of her look in the mirror. Pausing in her walk, she used her powers to slightly open the door and pull her bag inside before closing and locking the door. Spending closer to ten minutes to freshen up and just her normal morning routine.
Once happy any evidence of her... stressful situation, was gone... she made her way out and back upstairs. Lightly tossing her bag back with the others on her way. As she reached the landing, she made a beeline and walking into the guest bedroom.
Freezing in place... she saw her boyfriend stood up out of bed and pulling his regular trousers up whilst his shirt laid out on the bed. She could feel her cheeks heating up once more as he turned towards her. With his regular toothy grin on his face, he made his way over. Steeling a peck on her lips as he closed the door behind her, causing her to fall against it as he stood over her. Touching noses with his hand on her waist, whispering, "good morning."
"Sorry," she whispered back, voice cracking, "I-I didn't know... you was-"
"It's alright, I mean it's not like you've not seen me shirtless before," he replied, rubbing his nose against hers, "I heard the tap running downstairs and figured you already got up, so I thought-"
Feeling the same tingle down below, she closed her eyes and sunk her teeth into her lower lip. The image of them in this exact situation entered her mind but she gave a small leap, wrapping her legs around his waist. Pushing her against the door and-
"No!" she squealed, much louder than she would've liked. Pushing him back and taking a deep breath to control her racing heart.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
As she dared to look in his direction, she found him stood next to her but no-where near as close as previously. His brows were pulled together with his eyes staring directly at her. His hand softly held her's, running the thump over the back of her trembling hand. Whispering everything would be okay into her ear, he cautiously guided her down to sit on the bed. His free hand reached up and slightly massaged her shoulder.
"D-did I do something wr-"
"No," she whispered, shaking her head, "i-it's not you... I-"
"It's okay, Serena," he whispered, "you can tell me anything."
"It's embarrassing," she whimpered.
"And?" he shrugged, "I love you. Nothing you say will stop that. Remember how I was after Devon corp? I was embarrassed but you gave me the confidence to be honest and open... now it should go both ways."
Closing her eyes, she reconnected their minds. Unable to physically say it in case anyone overheard. Whilst going through her morning... excitement, she allowed him to view part of her dream. Bringing it to an end. She tightly held her nightshirt and pulled it down. Casting a glance to her red cheeked boyfriend.
"Serena..." he whispered, "it's nothing to be ashamed off."
"B-but-" she paused, "how do you know?"
"B-because when we was in Pallet before leaving for Hoenn... my dad spoke to me and Drake," he whispered, "at the time I didn't think much of it, thinking he was just trying to embarrass us. Then after Devon corp I thought that was what he meant... but he mentioned our bodies reacting a-and now-"
"You're not mad?" she whispered, "e-even about pushing you off?"
"Of course, not," he replied, "had I been in your situation, I'd probably do the same. But now I know so... when it happens again-"
"When?!" she yelped, eyes bursting open. Despite knowing in her head, it was only starting, she couldn't help but freak out hearing it.
"M-my dad said, once it starts it only gets stronger a-and more common," he explained, "a-and he also said the best way to stop them was- never mind."
"I think I know where that's going," she whispered.
"Anyway, now I know you're going through this... well... I'll know not to push you," he replied, "ya know, romantic styles."
"Thank you, Ash," she whispered, wrapping her arms around him. Nuzzling her head into the crook of his neck. After a few moments of silence, she decided to try and lighten the mood, "so... your birthday is coming up. Any idea what you-"
"I-I'm good, actually," he stuttered, "I don't feel much about celebrating."
She was about to ask why but stopped herself. Remembering back to his last birthday at the lake of rage, it was pretty self-explanatory as to why.
"I'm sorry Ash, I didn't mean to bring up memories of Gyarados or anything," she whispered.
"It's alright, Serena, I know you didn't," he replied, rubbing his hand up and down her upper arm and pecking her forehead. He let out a long sigh. "I... I just don't feel like celebrating the day I lost one of my best friends."
"I get it," she replied, "but... maybe you shouldn't think of it as celebrating a loss... maybe celebrating the times you got to spend together before."
The couple remained in their close hug for a little while until the sound of footsteps echoed through the house. Sighing, they released each other, and her boyfriend put his black shirt on before heading downstairs, leaving her to change into her regular outfit.
Max smiled widely as he sat at the family table, opposite May. His mum stood in the kitchen with Brock. She was busy flipping away with pancakes as he prepared bowls of Pokémon food, which Ash and his dad was carrying outside. He had offered to help but his mum claimed he should remain seated since the kitchen was already more crowded than she'd prefer.
Kicking his feet back and forth, his mind filled with images of his dad and Slaking in battle against the gym leader's he's already seen Ash take on. Soon everyone else joined him at the table with a full breakfast buffet. Despite Serena still being upstairs, they were allowed to dig in due to the food going cold.
"So, Ash," his dad stated, scooping scrambled eggs onto his plate. The raven-haired boy looked up from his own plate... of everything, "are you ready for your gym challenge or do you need some more time?"
"I'm almost ready," he nodded, a confident smile forming on his mouth, "I just need to make a call back to Professor Oak."
"Ah, so your bringing over a secret weapon I take it," he smiled, "so how about we schedule it for first thing tomorrow morning. This way you can talk it over with your Pokémon and get everyone in sync."
"Thanks," he nodded, "tomorrow morning is when we'll win our fifth Hoenn region badge. I'll head over to the Pokémon centre later today."
"I wouldn't be so confident if I were you, Ash," he chimed in.
"Yeah, yeah," he waved him off, "your dad's the greatest, strongest, bestest battler in the history of forever. I've heard you Max."
Puffing his cheeks out in defiance, he sunk into his seat. Stabbing a waffle with his fork, he munched away on it. The conversation turning towards May and her Pokémon contests. The light patter of footsteps caused him to look towards he stairs as Serena emerged, taking a seat next to Ash whilst whispering an apology for the time she took. He forced his eyes down to his own breakfast. Even after their talk on Dewford, he still found himself appreciating her looks.
"So, dad," he decided to speak up, "can you tell us about your battles with the other gym leaders?"
"Awe yeah," Ash chimed in, pumping his fist up, "that'll be awesome! Two gym leader's going head-to-head with full strength!"
"Alright, alright," he smiled with a light chuckle in his voice, "how about we start with my battle against Roxanne?"
He listened to his father talk about his battles so far to achieve his position in the elite four. While he wouldn't switch his adventure with his new friends for anything, it would've been awesome if he got to watch his father compete for this position. Before he could mull it over further, the doorbell rang.
"I wonder who that could be," he muttered, taking another bite of his pancakes.
"I'll get it," his dad quickly stood up, making his way over to the door. The mindless chitchat continued in his absence as he gulped down the rest of his meal, it only took about a minute until his father returned, "look whose here to visit everyone."
"Professor Birch?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow up. While he never met the man himself, he definitely knew of the region's main professor.
"This is a surprise," May smiled, "what're you doing here?"
"Hahaha, we can sort that out soon May but first, tell me," he laughed, "how is that Torchic I gave you turning out?"
"He's good and he's a Combusken now," she smiled, "and I've caught a tone more Pokémon. They're all outside eating right now if you wanna see."
"I might just take you up on that offer," the large man smiled, "but first, I believe we have a little business with young Maximus!"
"Business?" he asked, climbing off his seat.
"Well Max," his father drew his attention, "I spoke it over with Brock and we're both impressed with how you've grown to care for his Pokémon. You have really matured on this journey which is why I called the Professor here. Too see if we could do anything to congratulate this new maturity."
"Huh?" he blinked, flickering his eyes between the two fully grown man.
"Unfortunately, since I'm your father I couldn't act as a recommendation," he continued, "but after speaking with Brock, we came up with a short list of possibilities. Devon Stone was more than happy to fill in an application on your behalf."
"What're you talking about?" he asked.
"Your father has worked very hard to convince not only myself but the P.L.A higher ups to allow you to get a starter Pokémon early," Professor Birch explained, revealing a Pokéball from his pocket, "now normally a gym leader would be enough of a recommendation but given your personal connection, that's why we had to go to Mr Stone. After how you helped defend his company, he was able to chat with his son and help pull the strings but there are still conditions."
"Heh," he coughed, not quite believing what he's hearing.
"Firstly, since you're not starting in a group, I was only able to prepare one Pokémon," the Professor explained, "so you don't receive a choice like other's."
"You didn't make it easy to guess which starter you wanted," his dad chimed in, "after how well you got on with your sister's Torchic, I was convinced you wanted one yourself... but Brock mentioned his Mudkip and how close you were. So, we we're stuck between the two."
"Treecko," he whispered in an exhaled breath. Slowly reaching out and taking the device out of the professor's hand.
"Secondly, you need to travel in company of at least one established and experienced trainer," he continued, "but luckily, you've got three already."
"I think you mean four, Professor," his sister chimed in, but he couldn't tear his eyes off the red and white Pokéball.
"Sorry May but the P.L.A consider the role suitable for trainer's who have, at a bare minimum, two year's experience as a trainer," he explained, "and or, have competed in one regional circuit. Whether that's the league, grand festival, the master class or chateau's challenge. None of which you qualify as."
Glancing up, he saw her slide back into her seat with a pout, crossing her arms. Letting out a small chuckle, he turned back to the device. Squeezing his eyes shut, he tapped the middle button. Hearing the familiar sound of a Pokémon being released, he tried to peak but couldn't... too nervous to see who his dad and the professor picked. His bottom lip trembled, and heart pounded against his chest... "Tree."
Bursting his eyes open, he saw a small green Treecko looking up at him. With a tilted head, the big eyes blinked. As if asking what he was doing. Each breath echoed as it travelled in and out. Without much control, his mouth broke out in a smile, and he charged forward. Swiping the wood gecko up, "I got a Treecko!"
"Ahem," a slight cough caught his attention. He turned back to the Professor, who had a Pokédex and set of five Pokéballs in his hands, "these are also yours and we still have some more rules but... you can get to know your starter some first."
"Thank you," he whispered, voice cracking as he took the items. Dropping the Pokéballs into his pocket, he flipped open his device and scanned his starter:
Treecko, The Wood Gecko Pokémon. Treecko is cool, calm, and collected—it never panics under any situation. If a bigger foe were to glare at this Pokémon, it would glare right back without conceding an inch of ground. Small hooks on the bottom of its feet catch on walls and ceilings. That is how it hangs from above
Type: Grass
Ability: Overgrow
Hidden Ability: Unburden (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Male
Nature: Hasty (Note: This nature could change when this Pokémon evolves)
Move(s): Pound, Leer, Leafage
Treecko smiled and climbed up his leg, onto his back and ending with his feet on his shoulders as she leaned on his head. He closed the device and wobbled slightly from the extra weight.
"Now as for the other rules," the professor continued, "due to your age, every capture you make will be carefully assessed until your regular starting age. If it's believed they're out of your league, then they will be taken off you."
"I've opted for them to be transferred to me in that situation, but I won't be able to just hand them back," he replied, "you'd need to show a growth so that you can handle them and again, it isn't me you'd need to convince but an official from the P.L.A. and that goes for evolutions too. You're going to be much closer monitored than most new trainer's are. And there is still one more rule and I think it's the most important. "
"Which is?" he asked, barely able to stand still as he realised this wasn't just some sort of joke. The stupidly wide grin spread across his face.
"You give your old man a hug."
He kneeled down, opening his arms wide. Chuckling at the slight joke, he felt the weight jump off his back and he charged forward, embracing his dad in the biggest hug he could muster. Whispering another 'thank you' as he felt him return the gesture. The sound of a chair on the floor caused him to let go and turn back to see his mother stood behind his starter, her hands behind her back.
"Now I may not have had much chance to help in putting this together," she spoke, kneeling down and bringing a rectangle box around from her back, "but I thought this might come in handy for you."
Walking forward, he undid the bow on top and lifted the lid off. Revealing a black trainer's belt with clips for six Pokéballs. Taking it out of the box, he carefully put it on through the loops on his cargo-shorts. Taking his spare Pokéballs out of his pocket, he attached them to his belt and placed the device in the pocket.
"So how do I look?" he asked, placing his hands on his hips.
"Tree-cko!" His pure grass type gave a thumbs up.
"You look more like a trainer already!" Ash added.
"Very dashing," Serena added.
He chuckled lightly at her praised and felt his cheeks heat up. Hearing his starter chuckle, he turned around quickly grabbed his hand running to the front door, "we're gonna start our training right now!"
"Don't go too far, Max."
He heard his mother instruct as he flung the door open. Running outside, his new Pokémon grabbed the handle and pulled it shut as he ran over to a nearby tree. His mind already filling with ideas from watching Ash's train his Grovyle on numerous occasions.
Max frowned as he watched his starter Pokémon. They were currently trying to master the move quick attack. His grass type was charging at the tree and running up, ending in him performing a summersault back to the original position. The idea being he'd pick up the speed to carry himself up.
"Having trouble?"
Turning around he found Brock stood behind him with arms cross. Flicking his lips up in a smile, he moved closer and leaned down next to his starter, scratching the side of his head. His wood gecko cooed under his touch, letting out a relaxed sigh.
"We just can't get quick attack down," he mumbled.
"Well, that is a good place to start for moves," he nodded, "I guess you picked it up from Ash's Grovyle?"
"Yeah," he nodded, "I thought if we had a speed move then we'd never get caught off guard."
"It doesn't work like that," his older brother figure replied, standing back up, "and you only just started, you won't get a new move down that quickly."
"Yeah but, I remember May and Torchic got it down when she caught Mightyena," he complained, "and she wasn't exactly training back then."
"Maybe not but Torchic's nature of running about helped build up to it, just like training," he nodded, "now how about we move on from this. I'm sure Treecko is pretty board trying to run up this tree trunk by now."
"cko."
"I guess we could," he mumbled.
"Good," he smiled, producing a Pokéball in his hand, "because I thought you'd do me the honour of being your first trainer's battle!"
His eyes widened and mouth dropped slightly as the breeder walked away, creating a sort of makeshift battlefield between them, "seriously?"
"Of course," he smiled, holding his Pokéball out, "I choose you, Mudkip!"
In a flash of light, the small water type materialised in front of him. She looked around before glancing back to Brock. After a quick explanation, she nodded and turned back towards them. Scraping her foot against the ground, his own Pokémon walked out in front of his. Spreading his feet apart, a smirk adorned his face and eyes narrowed. Whilst raising both hands to look like some sort of wrestler posing before the match.
"Water gun!"
The mud fish Pokémon took deep breaths. Shooting out blasts of water between each one. Crossing his arms, he skidded back from the initial blast.
Leaping from his stance, the subsequent blasts missed. While Mudkip was on point with her accuracy, his Treecko was just too quick for her. He studied the field and realised that if he kept up avoiding then his starter would quickly tire.
"Quick, take cover in the tree and use leer!" he shouted.
Performing a backflip from another blast, he landed on the tree trunk. Like some sort of bug, he crawled up into the leaf shrubbery.
Walking forward, Mudkip appeared to be looking for her opponent. He poked his head out and she took a deep breath. With a narrowed gaze, she lost her composure and stumbled backwards. Flicking his eyebrow down, he didn't expect it to have such an effect.
"Your Treecko already has some great agility," Brock nodded, "I suppose that's partly just natural to the species. Headbutt the tree!"
His pure water type charged forward, smashing her head into the trunk. A flurry of leaves floated down as the wood gecko dived.
Swinging his tail down, he knocked her back. Landing on all fours as their opponent rolled backwards. Charging forward he swiped to the side and delivered a second pound, knocking Mudkip sideways, "hang on Treecko! I didn't tell you to do that?!"
"Calm down Max," Brock repeated, "this is the best way for you to learn how Treecko battles. Think about how often Ash just let's his Pokémon work."
"But I've watched Ash and his Grovyle battle before so-"
"Doesn't matter Max," he shook his head, "even the same species can have different battle styles. For example, look at Ash and Serena's Kirlia. They're even siblings but Serena's uses dance movements to avoid his opponent while Ash's is pretty head strong. Same goes for every Pokémon. Their personality informs their battle style as much as anything else. As his trainer, it's your job to discover Treecko's and help him expand upon it."
He blinked and stared at his starter. Running along, a series of glowing leaves surrounded him. Swinging his tail in one direction, he sent the leaves flying.
Mudkip took up a defensive stance. A green-semi-transparent shield formed around her. His leafage bounced off harmless as he charged in.
"Water gun the floor!"
Taking a deep breath, Mudkip shot out a blast of water. Creating a muddy puddle between her and his running starter.
"Use leafage again!" He shouted, "it's too dangerous to just charge in now. And protect will fail if she keeps trying to use it constantly!"
With a slight nod, his pure grass type made a turn at the edge of the muddy puddle. With a light glowing over his body, more leaves like before shot out.
"Supersonic!"
Brock's mud fish Pokémon took a deep breath, turning to track her opponent. Seeing his starter jump to launch his leafage, she let out a high-pitched screech with visual sound waves shooting out. It blasted through his leafage, knocking it sideways, harmless, and striking Treecko as he landed back on the ground.
His wood gecko Pokémon's pupils shrunk, and his eyes covered his ears. As Mudkip finisher her move, Treecko took off once more... but towards the tree.
Squeezing his eyes shut, his starter smashed his head into the trunk. Punching, kicking, and swinging his tail... he really did a number of the piece of nature.
Glancing around, he squeezed his own eyes. Trying to remember how he's seen confusion cured during his adventure and previous battles he's seen.
They burst open as an idea popped in his head, "Treecko! Listen to me! Your confused and your attacking the tree! Calm down and I'll guide you."
The pure grass type stood up, eyes still squeezing shut. With a deep breath, he stood right against the tree. Mudkip let out a cry and charged forward.
"Quick! Reach forward and feel the tree!" he shouted, "then climb back to the top!"
Cautiously, his starter reached out and felt the tree. As if on instinct, he quickly climbed to the top of the tree.
"Try and shoot him down with water gun, Mudkip," Brock instructed.
His eyebrow flicked up in confusion as the pure water type skidded to a stop. Sending mud flying in all directions. With a deep breath, she sprayed up a blast of water into the tree. Squinting to the top of the tree, he saw it hit a branch and spray out. Hitting his starter with the ricochet droplets.
He shook his head and his eyes returned to normal. Smiling, he gave him a small nod. Diving down parrel to the water gun.
Smashing into their opponent, the two starter's went rolling around in the mud. Causing the water gun to be cancelled.
Getting up quicker, he swung his tail around. With a splash of mud, the mud fish Pokémon went flying backwards... it seemed the previous leers worked.
"Mudkip!" Brock called out, "you alright to keep going?!"
Pushing herself up, she let out a loud cry... louder than one he's ever heard he do before. A bright light engulfed her body, and she began to change. His mouth dropped at the sight with a wide smile over taking his face.
As the glowing stopped, the newly evolved mud fish Pokémon stood on two legs, as opposed to the four from before. Her body was a primary light blue with a lighter shade of blue for his underside, along with an orange belly. Her head had an angular black fin, orange eyes, and orange gills on the ends of both cheeks, similar to when she was a Mudkip. She had long arms with three-fingered hands. Her feet had three small toes, and she had two black fins for tails. Looking over her body, she looked up and stared at him... blinking twice. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his new Pokédex:
Marshtomp, The mud fish Pokémon. An evolved form of Mudkip. The surface of Marshtomp's body is enveloped by a thin, sticky film that enables it to live on land. This Pokémon plays in mud on beaches when the ocean tide is low
"Congratulations, Marshtomp," Brock gave a small clap, turning to lock eyes with Max, "I say we stop this battle here, Max. What about you?"
Blinking in surprise, he turning towards his starter. Treecko gave a small shake of his head with a burning fire behind his eye. Subtly dropping the device back into his pocket, he turned back to his older-brother-figure, "no way Brock!"
Without missing a beat, his starter took off. Using another leafage, he sent it ahead as he covered the ground ahead.
Crossing her arms over her body, she grimaced against the super effective hit. Once within range, his starter leaped and swung his tail.
Lowering her arms, she snapped her mouth down on his tail. Spinning on the spot to continue the momentum, she tossed him sideways. He slid across the dirt as Brock flicked his eyebrow down, "rock smash."
Pouncing after him, the newly evolved Marshtomp wound her fist back. It glew white with a tint of brown-ish orange.
Landing on top, she delivered a blow direct to his starter. Collapsing on the ground, she stood up and he saw him with swirls in his eyes.
"Treecko!" Running towards his starter, he skidded and slipped in the mud, landing on his behind next to the wood gecko. Picking him up in a cradle, he felt tears sting his eyes as he let out a low grunt, slowly blinking his eyes awake.
"I told you we should've stopped, Max," Brock muttered, standing over him. His newly evolved partner by his side. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a bag of oran berries, "here, feed Treecko one of these and in an hour or two he'll have his strength back."
"Thanks, Brock." Taking the blue berry, he slowly held it over his starter who took his time to munch on it.
"I almost forgot about your gym leader experience, Brock." He turned to see Ash stood above him with arms crossed.
"What do you mean?" he asked, voice cracking.
"What I mean, Max, is Brock was treating you like a challenger at a gym. At least a first-time challenger," Ash replied, "he didn't dominate but gave a series of small challenges to see how you could overcome them."
"Is that why you used water gun after supersonic instead of just headbutt the tree until we fell?" he asked.
"It is, Max and it was also why I offered the chance to end the battle," Brock added, giving a not-so-subtle side glance to the raven-haired boy, "I know how easy it is to get lost in the excitement and even some more experienced trainer's still suffer from it, but Marshtomp's evolution meant her new power would've been too much to properly test you. And I hope you'll remember this outcome."
"Why?" he asked, feeling a tear escape down his cheek.
"Because when put in an unwinnable situation, sometimes it's best to just step back and concede," he nodded, "I know it's hard to admit but sometimes it's better than the alternative. As the trainer, you need to learn when such situations are making the right judgement call."
"Brock's right," Ash added, "winning is great but it's through your losses that you learn and improve."
"You'd know, aye Ash," Brock smiled.
"Hey!" He frowned but soon broke out into a smile, "anyway, I need to get going."
"Where are you going?" Max asked.
"To the Pokémon centre," he replied, "I need to make a couple calls to get ready for the gym match tomorrow. Probably be back in the evening after some training and general preparations."
Watching the raven-haired boy run down the street, he quickly wiped his eyes clear. Normally, he'd feel the need to call out and make a comment about how he wouldn't stand a chance regardless of his preparations but this time... he didn't. Maybe it was because he felt guilty for the final blow his starter took or because he was still super excited about finally having a Pokémon of his own.
"Come on." Brock offered a hand up. "We should get you out of those muddy clothes whilst Treecko recovers."
Ash smiled as he sat down at the video phone in the Pokémon centre. Taking a deep breath, his lips fell slightly. He reached out and dialled the number, it took about twenty seconds but soon the screen lit up. His eyebrow flicked down as he saw Daisy on the other end, out of everyone he knew to work at the lab now-adays, she wasn't who he expected to answer.
"Oh, hi Ash," she smiled, "what can I do for you?"
"I was hoping to get Granbull," he replied, "we've got a gym battle coming up and I kinda promised her."
"Okay, just give me a couple minutes and I'll get her ready," she smiled, "if you wanna get ready your end."
Nodding, she disappeared from sight. Slouching into his seat, his mind ran through the possible options. He already knew who he was gonna use but he also wanted to keep Swellow since she just evolved, which left... a red light shot off his belt, with Kirlia materialising next to him.
"Send me there," she instruct.
"I-is something wrong, Kirlia?" he asked, "I mean, why do you want to go to the lab?"
"I know sooner or later both myself and my brother will need to visit," she explained, "I'd rather go first. Make sure it's safe for him and check it out before he gets himself in trouble."
"You really care for him, don't ya," he smiled, "but that's a good a reason as any. Thanks for volunteering."
"I'm just doing what any older sister would," she nodded, "speaking off, any advice?"
"Only the one's to look out for are Sandslash... but if you leave him alone, he'll leave you alone," he nodded, "Dragonite is rough around the edges but given how head strong you are, I think you'll get on. Then Venusaur is kinda like the peacekeeper, but he has several helpers. As long as you don't try to cause trouble, you should be fine. If you wanna battle, then their specific battle grounds where you can find opponents or even mentors."
She gave a small nod, and he took the device off his belt. As she returned in the red light, he heard footsteps through the videophone. Turning back just in time for Gary's sister to reappear. Confirming the two Pokémon, they used the attached machine to switch them. He smiled and held the new device up.
"Granbull arrived safely," he explained.
"Same with Kirlia," she added. He noticed her open the device and his psychic fairy type materialised behind her. She gave a small wave before walking off and out of sight, "so... I'm sorry to hear about your brother."
"Heh, thanks," he mumbled, "have you heard anything more?"
"No," she shook her head, "last we heard was when his Pokémon were sent over. I'm sorry."
"It's alright," he sighed.
"How about next week?" she asked.
"What about next week?" he blinked.
"Hasn't my brother called you yet?" she asked, to which he shook his head. Pinching the bridge of her nose, she sighed, "alright well, my grandad is sending him and Leaf to Hoenn in a few days. Some colleagues want to share their research, but they should have a bit of time in Hoenn, so we thought you'd meet up. He was supposed to call you or Serena to arrange something."
"Well, that would be great!" He felt his lips stretch out into a wide smile. Already imagining the chance to meet up with his old friends. Nothing against May or Max but not having the original crew to bounce off has just felt... weird. Even chatting over video phone hasn't been the same.
"I'll be sure to let them know," she smiled, "but I gotta go now, Ash. Bye!"
He raised a hand to wave as the screen faded to black. Slouching back into his seat, he couldn't help but smile widely at the news. This has been a real lift to his spirits. Clipping his Pokéball back to his belt, he stood up and walked through the lobby towards the back battlefield.
A poof of smoke popped in his face as he stepped outside. Blinking, he noticed a figure in his face, "G-Gengar?"
"Shush, I'm trying to win an Oscar," she replied. Winding her hand back, she delivered a slap straight to his cheek... three black dots appeared next to her with the creaking of some bug Pokémon being the only sound, "nothing? Seriously?"
"First, ow!"
"Oh, toughen up drama queen," she rolled her eyes.
"And second." He cleared his throat, "what is wrong with you?!"
"Oh, so you're on that side of the argument?" she shrugged, "whatever. I'm gonna watch G.I. Jane... apparently there's a sequel on the way."
She disappeared in a poof of smoke. Shaking his head, he shook off what just happened. He continued on his path ahead.
Stretching under the warm Hoenn sun, he took out his Pokéballs and released his team. Granbull, Duskull, Swellow, Grovyle, Corphish and Torkoal materialised in front of him. He went to speak when he glanced around, realising the lack of people around. Shrugging, he turned back to the team.
"Okay guys, tomorrow will be our chance to challenge Norman for a balance badge," he explained.
Granbull smashed her fists around in a fashion not too different from Primeape and Corphish snapped his claws. Torkoal stood still, giving a small nod as Swellow smirked. Grovyle stood with his arms cross, twirling the stick in his mouth and Duskull just floated back and forth, looking between the others.
"I must say, this is quite the team you've put together, Ash." The sound of clapping echoed, and he turned to see Norman approaching. He stopped just to the side of him, glancing across his entire, "I assume you've had chance to make any rotations you wished too."
"I erm, yeah," he stuttered.
"Good, which brings me to the second part of your challenge," he replied, "I want you to tell me which three Pokémon you'll be using."
"Wha-" he gasped, "but why?"
"I told you who you'd be facing and gave you ample time to prepare on your journey from Larvaridge," he explained, "most gym battles test the challenger's ability to adapt and conquer under stressful situations but given your previous experience, I wanted to reverse the roles. So instead of testing adaptation-"
"Your testing my ability to plan when I know the opponent," he finished.
"Exactly," he smiled, "and part of that is having to plan when you know your opponent already knows your teams foundation. I want to challenge you in a way no gym leader before has and I hope this lives up to that challenge."
"I suppose it does, yeah," he nodded, a smile growing on his face, "alright, well I plan on using Granbull, Torkoal and Duskull tomorrow."
"Offence, defence and... mobility," he mused, "interesting combination. I look forward to see what your capable off coming up with."
"Thanks, Norman," he chuckled, scratching the back of his head.
"It's me who should be thanking you," he replied.
"What for?" he blinked in surprise.
"For what you've done for my kids," he replied, "not just you but Serena and Brock too. May's more confident than ever and Max has matured so much in such a small amount of time. Having some experienced trainers to travel with has really helped them blossom in ways I never thought. So, thank you."
"You don't need to thank me for that," he reassured, "it's what friends are for. And having someone to teach has helped teach me so much... same goes for both Serena and Brock too."
"Right," he smiled, "so will you be joining us for the Petalburg fate?"
"Petalburg fate?" he blinked, "what's that?"
"Walk with me and I'll show you... your Pokémon can follow too," he nodded, setting off away from the centre. Glancing around the team, he quickly took off to catch up, his Pokémon surrounding them as well, "so tell me, Ash, other than the battling side of gym leader's. Do you know the other aspects of the role?"
He pinched his lips together, trying to think back to his previous gym leaders... but to no-avail.
"That's alright, it's more prominent in Hoenn due to the regions culture but the P.L.A are spreading out to the other regions too," he explained, "a gym leader is a pillar of the community. They are public figures within the town's and cities where their gyms are located and should bring out the best in them."
"Cool," he muttered, "so what does this have to do with this... Petalburg fate?"
"Once a month I make a day to close the gym from challengers and help involve the people of Petalburg with Pokémon," he explained. A loud squawk echoed, and he turned up to the sky to see another Swellow flying around. Nodding to his own normal flying type, she took off too, "it's a day for the young kids to interact with my own team. Visiting trainers to show off their own teams and just bring the whole city together. Today is the day for this month."
"The day after we returned?" he quirked an eyebrow up, "isn't that a-"
"It's no coincidence, Ash," he smiled, "I specifically arranged it too be this day. Max always enjoyed the fates and I felt it would be fitting for his first day as a trainer to be with one. And I think it'll also help May. She was never a fan of them but now she's a trainer-"
"So, it's just a chance kids to play with Pokémon," he smiled, "cool. I remember always loving days like that as a kid. Professor Oak would run a summer camp for basically the same purpose, and it was always the best."
"So, you'd be happy to let your own Pokémon interact with them?" he asked, "the more Pokémon and wider variety we have, the more fun it seems to be."
"Of course," he smirked, "as long as they don't mind. I'm not gonna force them to do something they're not comfortable with."
Max pulled down his new outfit as he finished zipping his jacket up and checked out how he looked in the mirror. He was wearing a white jacket with three India green stripes going sideways around. The symbol for the Hoenn league on the right shoulder. A black collar stuck up around his head. The sleeves only covered the top part of his arms, but he had a lighter-green shirt underneath with sleeves to cover his entire arm. Matching black shorts with the same shade of green down the outer side. His belt with Treecko's Pokéball attached wrapped around his waist and matching black and green trainers.
Shoving his hands into his jacket pockets, he couldn't help but smile. This was an outfit which their parents brought for when he'd go camping with his dad, being more of a workout uniform. He never was one for physical activity but since being on the road, it just felt right, especially now he was an official trainer.
Tapping his pocket and feeling the Pokédex slotted in nicely, he turned and made his way downstairs. As he reached the bottom, he saw Brock and Serena crouched by the sofa. Walking towards them, his new starter popped up and looked towards him. Climbing over the back, he leaped towards him. Catching him with open arms, he laughed and spun whilst embracing the pure grass type, "I'm glad to see you're alright, Treecko."
"Tree," he smiled, landing beside him. The grass type scanned him up and down before giving a thumbs up, "treecko."
"New outfit, Max?" Brock chimed in, "planning on seeing anyone special today?"
"Hehehe, no," he stuttered, with a nervous chuckle. His eyes caught sight of Serena and he glanced down to the side, feeling his cheeks heat up, "i-it just felt right to have a change... you know, with Treecko now."
"Well, you look very handsome," Serena offered a small smile. Kneeling in front of him, she carefully grabbed his collar and fixed it into a neat fold, "better."
"T-thank you... for taking care of Treecko," he whispered, feeling his starter reach up and hold his hand.
"It was nothing, Max," Brock smiled, "like I said. He really just needed a bit of rest."
Turning towards his wood gecko, he kneeled down so they were at eye-level, "I-I'm really sorry Treecko. I should've stopped after Marshtomp evolved."
"Cko, treecko," he shook his head, making several swift punching motions.
"I think Treecko is saying he wanted to continue battling anyway," Brock mentioned.
"Tree," he nodded.
"Thank you," he replied, embracing his starter in a hug, "now what do you say we make a promise... to grow stronger together."
"Treecko." Holding his fist out, he couldn't help but smile. Tightening his own fist, he performed a fist bump with the wood gecko Pokémon.
"Aww, my little boy is already growing up," his mum cooed, walking into the room with several bags, "anyway, are you all ready?"
"Ready for what?" he asked.
"Your father's hosting the monthly Petalburg fate," she explained, as both Brock and Serena helped her with the bags, "and we're running late."
"Then what are we waiting for?!" he cheered, jumping into the air, "come on, Treecko, your gonna love it!"
"Treecko!"
Running outside, he jogged on the spot as he waited for the other three to follow him. Glancing to the side, he found Treecko in similar movements. Smiling he soon found them locking the door and walking up behind him.
"Calm down, Max, we'll get there in plenty of time," his mum instructed.
"Okay mum," he sighed, "but where's May?"
"She went your dad to get the rest of her Pokémon," she smiled, "we'll meet them all there. But I've got cooking duty today which is why we've got all the extra things."
"Aww man, your barbarque's are the best." He already felt his mouth watering at the thought.
"Who normally does the cooking?" Serena asked, "if you don't mind my asking."
"We have a small committee of local residence who help prepare for these days," his mum explained, "we just take it in turns."
"Well, I'm sure Ash will enjoy the relaxation before his gym battle," Brock noted, "it's not too common we get to go to events like this. I think the last time might've been the party Professor Oak threw after the silver conference."
As the mindless chatter continued, he glanced down to the pure grass type. Letting out low breath, his mind flashed with their first battle together. Rubbing his face with one hand, he pinched the bridge of his nose. With one final glance towards his starter, he turned back to the others.
"Hey guys," he spoke up, "I've decided."
"Decided what Max?" Serena asked.
"We're not going to do the gym challenge right away," he replied, "after seeing how we failed against Marshtomp... we wouldn't be ready in time for the league... and I'm not sure we'd have time to retravel between the other gyms we've already been too."
"That's a very mature decision, Max," Serena smiled, "and I'm sure watching Ash compete first hand should give you the best chance before your own."
"Who are you and what have you done with the real, Max?" Brock asked, smirking down with an over-the-top tone, "the boy who'd charge into a Taillow's territory to try and spot any wild Pokémon or would ride around on Vigoroth's back like some jungle boy?"
"Heh, I-I just thought-"
"I'm kidding, Max," he smiled, "like Serena said, it's a very mature decision to make."
"Hehehe, right."
"Oh look, we're here," his mum chimed in.
Turning back around, his eyes widened at the sight of Petalburg park. His mum, Brock and Serena made their ways over to the set of barbarque's to set up their own things as he took in the sight around them. His father's Audino already waiting to help cook. His hand still holding onto his pure grass type. First thing he noticed was his dad's Exploud and Zangoose on the battlefields with several children surrounding them... with the latter battling Combusken.
A small group of kids were running around hiding as he saw his dad's Kecleon chasing around. Laughing, he always remembered the colour swap Pokémon loving to play games like hide and seek... even if he'd cheat by using his camouflage ability to practically disappear altogether. While he couldn't see her, the cheers of May's Minun indicated she was playing the game too.
He continued to walk around and found Spinda performing a sort of dance class with both adults and children partaking in her lesson. Looking closely, he spotted his sister's Mawile joining the red panda Pokémon on stage, with her own dance.
"Tree!" His starter cried out, but it was too late.
A heavy weight slammed into him and knocked him down to the ground. Unable to focus on what happened, a ticklish slobbery tongue splashed around licking him. Laughing out loud, he tried to cover his face and wiggle out. He got a glimpse of Mightyena being the cause as he rolled around.
"Hahaha," he laughed, "I'm happy to see you too, Mightyena."
With a high-pitched bark, he let him back up. Treecko quickly checking on him too. While his sister walked up, stroking her dark types back. Lileep walking beside her
"Nice to see you could make it," she commented, "and what's with the outfit?"
"It just felt like a change," he shrugged, "where's the rest of your Pokémon? I've seen some but-"
"Well, Beautifly and Clamperl are over with mum," she pointed over to the cooking area. Just as she said, the bug flying type rested on their mother's head while the pure water type sat on a table next to her, "not sure why but those two have really grown attached to her."
"I'm sure Skitty and Spoink are somewhere. I last saw them running off to play a game of tag with some kids."
"And Swablu is resting in a tree... she didn't want to get pulled and prodded by the different kids," she added, "speaking of which, Mightyena wanted to go to the petting area. You know how much attention he likes to get."
Nodding he watched her walk off, carrying the rock grass type. His eyes glanced ahead to see their dad's Girafarig and Sawsbuck surrounded by a bunch of people. With his dad's two Pokémon even allowing parents to put their kids on their back for rides.
With a wide smile taking over his face, he continued to walk around. The smell of the barbeque filling the air and the loud music adding to the atmosphere as he noticed two Swellow flying around in the air. Captivating some spectator's below, "tree!"
"Huh?" he glanced down to his starter. Crashing into someone, he fell back and instinctively grabbed his head. Glance up, he found a vaguely familiar sight of a young, green-haired boy with his Ralts in his arms, "your Walley, right?"
"Y-yeah, how-" he stopped, "oh, your that kid we ran into just outside of Mauville once."
"Max," he replied. Pushing himself up, he offered a hand a pulled the boy up too, "but what're you doing here? I thought you lived in Verdanturf."
"I do but we have family here in Petalburg," he replied, "and some on the committee who run these events," he explained, "they thought it would be a fun day out for Ralts and myself, so we came over to check it out."
"Cool!" he replied, a slight cough caused him to look down to the side, "oh this is Treecko. He's, my starter!"
"Neat," he smiled, "I'm guessing you got the early start thing too."
"You mean-"
"Yeah," he nodded, "my parents knew I couldn't really go out and stuff due to... doesn't matter. So, they applied and got the Rustboro gym leader to help with the application. Even if not enrolled her school, I was doing home school programme based on her own curriculum. That's how I got Ralts here."
"Ralts!" He cheered.
"Wanna go around here together?" he asked, "my parents help organise it, so I'll be sure to show you where everything is."
"Sweet!" he smiled, "one thing I saw on my way in was a giant Slaking which kids were jumping on. While my parents never would let me do something like that, since they went off to set up a picnic blank, it should be fine."
"Are you sure?" he asked, "I wouldn't want to get you into trouble or anything-"
"I'm sure," he nodded, "if anything goes wrong then Ralts here would teleport me to safety. They're just overprotective."
"Hehehe, I know something about overprotective parents too."
Walking with the similar aged boy, he noticed his Treecko running ahead. Ralts teleport over to him and the duo entered a game of tag. While his starter had superior agility, the psychic fairy type was able to keep up by teleport to adjust his movements.
Meditite inwardly smiled as she felt the wind rush past her face. Peaking one eye open she saw herself high above the ground. Flying nearby was the same sparkling bug she saw earlier, who she learnt was Ledian. Serena mentioned her from time to time, along with the others but it was nice getting to know everyone finally. As she spotted her body, she noticed a psychic outline radiating off her.
"Focus!"
Glancing down she saw Delphox stood with her arms crossed. Quickly closing her eyes, she focused in on the ESP power coursing through her. Locking onto the bug flying types mind, she found herself able to track her moves as she swirled around and zooming back towards her.
Without losing her mediative stance, she floated to the side. A gust of wind blew past as she tracked Ledian's thoughts. She performed an aerial u-turn but once again she was able to float out of reach.
She was always better at controlling her physical strength over her mental one but with Delphox's help, she quickly mastered calm mind. It wasn't too difficult given the similarities to her move meditate, which originally allowed her control over her physical strength-
A series of voices locked in some sort of argument drew her attention. Looking downwards she saw her boyfriend stood yelling at her mentor. Despite the size difference, he clearly wasn't intimidated. Something crashed into her back, and she went flying. With rushing wind blurred her vison. Instinctively holding her hands out and shutting her eyes, she felt the tingle of ESP embrace her body. Squinting, she found her face an inch from the ground.
"Hero-bug Ledian sorry," her sparring partner shouted from above. Standing herself up, she glanced back and gave a thumbs up. Seeing her nod, with a wide smile before zooming off, she glanced between the two fully evolved Pokémon. Slowly approaching with hesitation in each footstep.
"-everyone on this team has had just about enough of your big macho-" Delphox ranted.
"Please... Don't fight you two," she spoke up, cautiously walking between the two. Jerking to the side, she found her boyfriend with his hand tightly around her upper arm. Stumbling slightly from his strength, she struggled to remain on her two feet.
"What do you think you're doing?" he practically yelled.
"Well, I erm-"
"Don't speak to Meditite like that," Sylveon stepped forward, with Delphox by her side.
"Shut it fairy!" He grunted, dragging her way, "or do you want scrambled eggs?"
Delphox stepped in front of the pregnant Pokémon and extended her stick. She held the wand tightly, a flame flickering on the end. Her nose twitched and eyes narrowed as she loomed over them. While his hand tightened around her arm, she quickly raised her free hand.
"Wait! Don't fight please!"
The fire fox paused. Her face fell slightly before the flame on her stick disappeared. Muttering something under his breath, she struggled to keep up with him as they walked away. Giving them one last look, she turned back towards her boyfriend as they travelled across the grassy field.
"Hold up," she called out, seeing the others were a safe distance away. Yanking her arm, with a little help from her strengthened psychic powers, she broke free from his grasp, "what's got into you, Hitmontop?"
"Me?" he grunted, "you're the one who-"
"Who what?" she blinked.
"Our trainer," he growled, "has kept us apart and first chance we've been together you go to hang out with that that fairy instead?!"
"Hang on," she replied, "Sylveon just happened to be in the building when I arrived. And we're friends."
"No, you're not," he grunted, stamping his foot down, "no way are you going to be friends with a fairy type like that. It's dirty and wrong."
"What are you talking about-"
"Your naivety can be real-" he paused, sighing, "doesn't matter. How have you been anyway?"
"Good..." she muttered, glancing down to her feet. Swirling one around a couple blades of grass, "I've nearly got the stuff down for my performance with Kirlia-"
"No!"
"What do you mean no?" she asked, staring back at him.
"No way is my gal gonna be performing on the same stage as some spritzy fairy boy," he grunted, "it's bad enough how many are already around this place. I will not allow you to make a mockery by indulging that sort of behaviour."
"B-but Kirlia is my friend," she muttered feeling tears sting her eyes.
"Serena's been a bad influence on you," he grunted, grabbing her arm once more. She almost tripped over her own feet as she struggled to keep up, "come on and you can see how a real mon handles himself. After I get in some good battles, we can become... reacquainted."
Unable to use her voice, she stared at the back of her boyfriend's head. The battlegrounds slowly coming into view behind. She always knew he could be abrasive and had some... unique views but he was never this... controlling... or did she just not notice it so early on when they first met?
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...