Cinnabar Island Gym

"It's the hippy guy!" exclaimed Ash, making said man sweat drop.

"Yeah... i'm not a hippy," muttered the man. Ash and the gang were currently deep in the heart of a Volcano, searching for the elusive Cinnabar Island Gym. By accident, or an act of Psyduck, they were now apparently successful in their efforts. The room they were in was scorching hot, surrounded by rock on all sides. The center featured an official Pokemon League battlefield, held up by metal chains attached to the corners of the rock in the room. The "hippy guy" stood on the opposite side of the battlefield.

"No you're not, but you're clearly more than a simple Inn Keeper," answered Brock.

The strange man grinned at that. "Allow me to answer that assertion with this. It's not a hat, but it keeps your head dry. If you wear it, it's only because you already lost it."

Now used to the man's abundance of riddles, Ash found the answer in a near instant. "A wig, which means you're the Cinnabar Island Gym Leader aren't you?" accused the boy, eyes focused on the man ahead of him. A small chuckle left the strange man and he promptly pulled off the blonde hair, his mustache, and the glasses, revealing an older man close to balding, but grey hair permeated both sides of his head.

"Blaine, at your service. I'm glad to see you are getting the hang of my riddles Ash Red Ketchum."

"Of course you know who I am. I guess you did your research like Koga," muttered the boy.

"Perhaps, but it's more than that kid. You're not the first Ketchum to grace my Gym. That old man of yours gave me a hell of a fight back in the day," reminisced Blaine with a fond smile.

"You fought my dad?"

"Don't be too surprised. I'm old," deadpanned Blaine. "Enough about Red though. I've heard good things about you Ash, and i'm itching for a challenge. Don't betray my expectations." A part of Ash wanted to prolong the conversation, so that he might glean more about his father, but he relented. The time was at hand to win his final Gym Battle in Kanto. Ash adopted a cold demeanor, staring Blaine down, and he spoke.

"I'm Ash Red Ketchum from Pallet Town and I challenge you to battle!" Blaine's lip curled at the familiar expression on the boy's face.

"I accept. This will be a full 6 on 6 battle for the Volcano Badge. As the Gym Leader, I will not be allowed to make substitutions, but you may if you wish. A Pokemon will be eliminated from contention when it is either unable to battle, or is withdrawn from the battle by their trainer. The battle will be concluded when one trainer's Pokemon are unable to battle. Let the match begin!" yelled Blaine, tossing a Pokeball into the air.

A beautiful fox-like Pokemon with golden-white fur and six tails materialized in front of Blaine on his side of the battlefield.

"A Ninetales," Brock breathed from the sidelines with no short amount of envy.

Ninetales may be a Fire Pokemon, but it has a special affinity for psychic type attacks as well. Time to neutralize that attribute with my own Pokemon.

"Princess, start us off right," calmly ordered Ash. The green Espeon at his side leapt onto the battlefield, and the match was on. Blaine wasted no time, moving right away.

"Sunny Day." Ninetales cried out, and the already intense heat got that much hotter, as everyone felt the effects of an invisible sun beating down on them. Meanwhile, Ash refused to let that go unpunished, and took advantage of the momentary vulnerability.

"Power Gem!" Espeon's gem glowed, rocks flew from the battlefield and the surrounding walls, and then soared forward. Blaine and Ninetales showed little concern, opting to ignore the consequences of the oncoming attack in favor of something else.

"Nasty Plot," called the Gym Leader. Ninetales glowed a blue aura, greatly upping her special attack, and then the rocks struck. The fire fox was shoved back to the edge of the battlefield. She gritted her teeth, but made no sound at the super-effective damage she had taken.

Blaine visibly smirked. "Our turn. Flamethrower!" A powerful stream of fire jetted from Ninetales mouth, enhanced by Sunny Day and her upped special attack.

"Dodge with Dig!" promptly fired back Ash, more than aware that the fire would likely end this in one strike. Ash was not aware of the consequences of his own attack though, and Blaine's resulting laugh showed it. Espeon dug into the battlefield, disappearing from sight... and then reappearing, heading straight down into the lava pit. Quick reflexes and luck saved her life.

"RETURN!" Ash screamed, pulling out her Pokeball and sending a beam of red energy that connected with Espeon's body just before she hit the lava.

"Well done Ash. I applaud you for recalling Espeon in time. Perhaps you should be more cautious in your decision making though," casually reasoned Blaine. The boy was deadly pale, having come within an instant of getting his own Pokemon killed. He had come too far though, and faced too much just to give up here.

I've got to calm down and think this through. Blaine's battlefield is deadly and gives him a clear advantage. His Fire Pokemon are likely trained to be able to withstand the heat and lava, but barring Charizard, it's a death sentence for my friends. Dig is no longer a viable strategy. Agility might work, but even that has risks if my Pokemon slips up. I'm going to have to be precise going forward, thought Ash, gaining back some measure of resolve.

"Espeon, come back out." The emerald green psychic appeared on the battlefield once more, shaken up, but standing undamaged.

"Are you ok Princess?" the concerned trainer asked.

"A little freaked out, but i'm good Daddy. No more Dig Attacks though," chirped back Espeon. Not one for emotional displays, Blaine resumed the battle.

"Flamethrower again Ninetales!"

"Dodge with Quick Attack!" countered Ash. Fire came at Espeon yet again, but this time she jumped to the side, speeding towards Ninetales in a charge.

"Use your own Quick Attack," ordered Blaine. In an instant, the flames ceased and Ninetales dashed forward, aiming to use her greater body size as an advantage. Well aware of that fact, Ash made his next move.

"Psybeam and then press forward to finish Quick Attack attack!" Both Pokemon were nearly upon one another at this point, so when the purple waves left Espeon, Blaine and Ninetales had no time to formulate a response. The waves hit true, damaging and stunning the fire fox, leaving her open to get rammed by Espeon's Quick Attack, which hit in the next moment. Ninetales flew backwards out of the battlefield and towards the rocky wall.

"PUT THE REST OF YOUR ENERGY INTO AN OVERHEAT!" Blaine yelled, shocking Ash and Espeon. In the air and speeding back, Ninetales lowered her heard, opened her mouth, and released. A giant wave of fire, nearly the size of the entire battlefield, sped to Espeon.

"RETURN!" Ash tried once more. This time, it was too late. Espeon was on the other side of the battlefield and the fire already too close. Ash's princess bore the full force of Overheat just as Ninetales crashed into the wall. Espeon cried out in agony at the intense flames that mercifully ended fast as Ninetales' impact to the wall knocked her out. Both Pokemon fell to the floor.

"No battle is over until a Pokemon is completely knocked out," advised Blaine, recalling his fallen Ninetales. Ash bit his tongue, refusing to respond to Blaine's jab, and called back his own fallen Pokemon.

"Thanks for putting in the work Princess. Take a breather."

"Arcanine, your time has come!" A large orange dog with black stripes appeared, signaling Blaine's second Pokemon of the battle.

A physical attacker with impressive speed. Blaine likely has no Pokemon as fast as this one, which means it's time for my own speedster to join the fray.

"Pikachu, I choose you!" Ash yelled, extending his arm, which Pikachu used to catapult himself onto the battlefield, across from Arcanine.

"Starting with both Pokemon you had exposed before we even battled eh? You'll have to show me something new eventually," Blaine chortled. Ignoring him, Ash decided it was his turn to go first.

"Agility into Iron Tail!"

"Extreme Speed," evenly answered Blaine. Both Pokemon were a blur, gone from their respective sides of the battlefield in an instant. Pikachu leapt near the end of his move, spinning his body to aim a glowing tail at the charging glowing white canine. Neither trainer called off the attacks and a boom echoed across the battlefield when they connected. Arcanine was flung back and landed in a heap in front of his trainer having taken an Iron Tail to the face. Pikachu was also sent back, though he landed on four feet and slid backwards with little damage to show.

"That's some Pikachu he's got there. Like father like son I suppose," mumbled the Gym Leader under his breath, as Arcanine rose back to his feet.

"Again Pikachu." Pikachu sped up once more, gaining even more speed than last time.

"I learned my lesson Ash and won't fall for the same trick twice. I wonder how you will deal with FLARE BLITZ!" roared Blaine. Arcanine charged forward, but this time he was covered in a translucent armor of fire.

Got to wait for the right moment, thought Ash, eyeing the inevitable collusion. When Pikachu sprang, Ash called it.

"Double Team!" The yellow mouse multiplied into fifteen copies. Arcanine's momentum carried him forward through one that remained in front of him, dissipating it at once. While the sudo-legendary attempted to slow down and turn, Ash continued.

"Thunderbolt."

"ROAR!"

"PIKACHUUUUU!" Lightning shot from each copy of Pikachu and Arcanine turned, opening his mouth to obey his trainer's command. This time, there would be no last second miracles for Blaine. Lightning coursed through Arcanine, dealing an intense amount of damage and interrupting Roar.

"Don't let up Pikachu," cooly commanded the boy, refusing to give his crafty opponent an opening. Blaine looked on, seeing his companion cry out from the never-ending volts of electricity. Arcanine could arguably battle for a good while longer, but Arcanine's position on Ash's side of the battlefield, Pikachu's boosted speed, and the mouse's surprising power made the outcome a forgone conclusion. Not to mention, the man didn't enjoy the sight of his own Pokemon in pain. Blaine sighed.

"STOP! I concede and wish to withdraw Arcanine," grumbled the man. Pikachu looked to his trainer and Ash nodded, resulting in the stoppage of the attack, and Arcanine falling to his knees, electricity still crackling along his body.

"Return Arcanine," called Blaine, allowing his Pokemon to rest, while Pikachu's copies dissapated and the mouse trotted back to Ash's side of the battlefield.

"You learn quick Ash. I'll give you that. I doubt Pikachu will be able to handle this. Go Rhydon!" A large gray Pokemon akin to a combination of a dinosaur and rhinoceros materialized. It stood on two legs, had two arms, and a horn was in the place of where one might expect a nose.

A Rock-Ground Pokemon? No Gym Leader i've seen has ever sent out a Pokemon that deviated from their chosen type. Blaine is right about Rhydon and Pikachu though. It's a mismatch. Iron Tail is just about the only thing that would work, but even then Rhydon's defense is still high. Add in the super-effective ground type moves and it's a no brainer. His boosted speed will regress, but at least Pikachu will be able to come back and battle later.

"Return Pikachu," said Ash, prompting the yellow mouse to jump back on his shoulder. Grabbing a Pokeball from his belt, Ash prepared to introduce a Pokemon that had yet to participate in a Gym Battle.

Indigo Plateau

Yet again, four powerful trainers gathered in a room high above the Indigo Plateau. A meeting was currently underway regarding the findings against Team Rocket and the Viridian City Gym Leader amongst other things. Needless to say, things were not going well

"But how is that possible? No island can disappear off the face of the earth!" blurted out a certain distressed purple-haired man.

"This one did William! Now sit down and calm yourself man!" scolded the ever ornery Agatha.

"To summarize, the investigative team reported being on the island, where they were searching among the ruins of a research facility. In the next moment, they found themselves on a pier in a nearby town, having no idea how they arrived. Finally, they attempt to return to said island, but were unable to locate it, despite hours of searching. Is this correct?" questioned Lorelei.

"An accurate summary yes," nodded Agatha.

"Perhaps, this is the work of the weapon we believe Team Rocket to have acquired," mused Bruno.

"Speaking of, what is the latest news on the Rockets?" asked Lorelei.

"Beyond the reports you have all been getting from the local Gym Leaders, there is some news. We have received confirmation that Lance is indeed in enemy hands," started Agatha.

"And this information comes from?" pressed Will. The old woman stood, walking to the window with a sigh.

"Ash Red Ketchum. The young man stopped a Rocket Daycare scheme in Tamago Town and delivered the information over the hotline that was set up. According to the details given, Mr. Ketchum walked in on two Rocket operatives speaking with the Rocket Boss over a video phone. As always, the boss was covered in shadow, though the description given is similar to that of Giovanni, lending further evidence to our leading theory as to the boss' identity. In any case, the Rocket Boss let slip that he was currently holding Lance. This information was corroborated by a report from the local Officer Jenny," finished Agatha.

"That boy just can't stay out of trouble," scoffed Lorelei.

"Well he did save a bundle of Pokemon," countered Will.

"That's not the point. Lance is seemingly alive and the information was deliberately given by the enemy. For what purpose though, i'm at a loss," interjected Bruno.

"Agreed," Agatha turned back to the group, sending a small smile towards the hulking man. Further discussion was put on hold as a short energetic old man in a ball cap burst through the conference room doors. He was holding a small package and appeared out of breath.

"Charles, to what do we owe the interruption?" Agatha asked, looking at the man with curiosity.

"My apologies but this couldn't wait. I just received a package addressed to the Indigo League. It was sent from the Viridian City Gym," Mr. Goodshow said with a serious expression. Leaving the package on the table, he walked out of the room. Nobody moved for a few moments.

"Well, somebody should get that," abruptly said Agatha, moving to the table. Ripping off the tape, she slowly opened the package. What she saw made her do something none of the other trainers had ever seen from the normally strong woman. Agatha screamed, collapsing to the floor and dropping the package.

"Agatha!" cried Will, kneeling down next to his companion. Agatha was still. The rookie Elite 4 Member tried shaking her, but she refused to move. Moving his ear to her chest, he felt a heartbeat.

"She's still breathing, but she's out cold," sighed the man in relief. "What could have possibly provoked such a response though?"

"That would be this," sounded Bruno, his face tight and full of rage. Lorelei's normally cool demeanor was pierced as well, staring at Bruno in horror.

Will looked up at the fighting specialist. Bruno held something in each hand. One hand possessed a flat black disk of sorts with a button. The other held a severed finger that bore the ring of the Kanto League Champion.

Cinnabar Island Gym

"Krabby, I choose you!" Ash's faithful crab companion exited the Pokeball ready to engage in his first Gym Battle.

"A Water Pokemon. Predictable, but I will credit you for holding it back this long into the battle," conceded Blaine, who quickly transitioned into an attack.

"EARTHQUAKE!"

"Protect!" Rhydon lifted a leg high and stomped into the battlefield hard, creating seismic vibrations and bringing sharp rocks up. Lucky for Krabby, Protect shielded him from any and all damage.

"Bubble Beam Krabby!" The red Pokemon lifted a claw, shooting a stream of bubbles through the smoke and in Rhydon's direction.

"Defend with Horn Drill." Rhydon tucked his head and the horn began to spin, decimating the stream of bubbles like they were nothing.

"You didn't think I wouldn't be prepared to counter my team's most blatent weakness now did you?" smirked Blaine.

Ash frowned at that, reassessing the situation. Distance attacks won't work, which means we're going to need to get dangerously close and get physical. Blaine may have a few more surprises up his sleeves, so the key will be to end this quick.

"Swords Dance!" Krabby clicked his claws as a white sheen enveloped his body, signaling a boost in attack power.

"Oh no you don't! Get in close and use THUNDER PUNCH!" roared Blaine. Rhydon charged in, his fast crackling with electricity, ready to wipe out a Water Pokemon in one shot.

"Mud Shot!" Yet again Krabby aimed a claw at Rhydon, preparing to launch another projectile.

"Keep charging, tuck you're head, and prepare a Horn—"

"Aim at Rhydon's fist and then finish with Crabhammer!" interjected Ash, throwing off his opponent. Krabby obeyed. A stream of mud flew from the claw, easily connecting with Rhydon's fist, as the Pokemon was far too close to dodge. Krabby wasn't done yet though. His other claw glowed a bright white and blue mixture, before coming down on the approaching Rhydon's horn, while Rhydon's fist simultaneously struck Krabby. The clash brought up a spattering of dust from the battlefield, shielding both Pokemon from their trainer's sight. For a few moments, no sound was made. Then, a large crash echoed around the enclosed room. When the dust settled, a larger crab with four spikes on his head and one giant claw stood. Rhydon was on the ground.

"Discarding the evolution, there's no way your Pokemon could have possibly survived a Thunder Punch from Rhydon. Unless... very clever Ash," commended Blaine, calling back Rhydon.

"Yup. Mud Shot completely neutralized the electricity in that Thunder Punch. Krabby's high defense and boosted attack led to Rhydon's knockout and Krabby's survival from the regular punch. As for the subsequent evolution to Kingler, it was a surprise to be sure, but a welcome one," smiled the boy.

"Indeed. This battle is far from over though. Three Pokemon remain. Seeing as you sent out a Johto Pokemon earlier, I think it's only fair that I do the same. Go Houndoom!" yelled the Gym Leader. Another canine Pokemon emerged from Blaine's Pokeball. It was largely black and had red eyes, grey curvy horns, and bone-like armor on various parts of its body. A thin tail with an almost devil-like quality emerged from the rear.

I'm betting this is a Fire Pokemon, but there's a good chance it has a dual typing. We'll have to be careful with this one and play it by ear, rationalized Ash.

"Begin with Taunt," said Blaine. Houndoom stuck his tongue out and A dark pulse of energy emerged, flying at Kingler in an instant, and connecting with ease.

"No more power ups boy."

"Fine then. Start with Bubble Beam," ordered said boy. The newly evolved Kingler aimed his large claw and fired a stream of bubbles, which were far more powerful than the earlier version.

"Nasty Plot and then Flamethrower," answered Blaine, showing no emotion in the wake of the oncoming attack. Houndoom gave a loud howl, summoning dark energy to envelop his body, before firing a powerful Flamethrower at the oncoming water attack. Not only did the attack dissipate Bubble Beam, but it continued on, smiting Kingler with a good amount of damage, despite the ineffectiveness. Kingler stood strong though, ready for more. Before Ash could think of a response, Blaine continued.

"Flame Charge!" Houndoom took off with added speed, enveloped in flames and sprinting right to Kingler.

Taunt won't let me defend, but why would I want to with Houndoom charging in? There's got to be something more to this attack that I just can't see. There's no time! We have to attack!

"Crabhammer!" commanded Ash. Blaine did not initially respond, allowing both Pokemon to get closer until...

"Intercept the attack with Thunder Fang!" The flame armor died, electricity flowed around Houndoom's sharp teeth, and the canine sunk them into the oncoming fist with a sizable speed advantage.

"COOKIE!" cried out Kingler, electricity dealing double the amount of damage due to the conductive properties of the water that had enveloped Crabhammer.

"SHAKE HOUNDOOM OFF KINGLER!" yelled the boy, eyes widened at the display. Kingler tried, flailing his claw about, but Houndoom was like a dog with a bone, refusing to let go. Soon enough, Kingler stopped struggling and collapsed to the ground.

"I have to say, that trick with the punch manipulation I took from you Ash. Who says an old dog can't pick up new tricks?" laughed Blaine, while Ash silently recalled his fallen Pokemon.

Blaine sure likes to talk, but he's far from stupid. If Kingler couldn't stand up to Houndoom, there's no way Shellder has a chance. That said, Houndoom has shown off a few dark moves. Maybe that means it has a dual-dark type? If there's even a chance of that being true, then my next Pokemon is an obvious and overdue choice.

"Go Pokeball!"

Indigo Plateau

"Why am I on the floor?" weakly uttered the old woman, looking at the masked individual with the purple hair at her side.

"Oh... well you collapsed Agatha. Are you ok?" he asked with concern.

"I'd be better if I was standing. Some assistance William? NOW!" railed the crone, bringing small smiles to Lorelei and Bruno, while prompting the youngster of the group to help Agatha to her feet. Dusting herself off and taking her cane from the whipper snapper, Agatha took in the room. Will had a sheepish look about him, while her more experienced colleagues had adapted more serious expressions after their brief amusement, focusing on two objects that sat on the table.

"That's right..." whispered Agatha, gazing at the finger of her Champion. Swallowing hard, her focus shifted to the other item. A flat black device, almost reminiscent of a Pokedex. It had a single button in the middle.

"Has anyone attempted to engage the device?"

"No. We were otherwise occupied with your sudden fainting spell and the other item," cooly answered Lorelei.

"Then we best get to it now. Take a seat everyone," grouched Agatha, limping to the head of the table, while everyone else sat down. Now in their seats, Agatha gave a nod and Bruno pressed the button. A small blue hologram shot up from the device. Featured was A well dressed man who sat in an opulent chair, his face partially hidden, but a cruel grin could be seen. The voice he spoke with was not disguised.

"My greetings to the members of the esteemed Elite Four. I am sure you are quite busy, so I will not waste your time. I am the head of the organization you have been trying to combat these part few months. I am the boss of Team Rocket. By now you likely know of my identity, but in the unlikely possibility you do not, I shall not disclose it here. In any case, it is of no importance. What is important, is the fact that I am in possession of Champion Lance. If the tip you received from young Ash Red Ketchum is not enough to convince you, I must assume that the other item you were delivered is," menacingly laughed the man for a small moment.

"Lance is alive, but how long he stays that way is up to you. The four of you are to arrive at New Island in precisely 24 hours alone. Bring no one else! Your various expeditions, which I am more than aware of, prove that you know the location, so I trust getting there will not be an issue. Worry not, you will be able to arrive without difficulty, unlike your recent scouts. Failure to comply with these precise instructions will result in severe consequences for your beloved leader in a manner that is neither quick or painless. I am not above eliminating a Champion. Red is evident of that fact. Do not make the mistake of assuming that I will not carry out this threat," warned the Rocket Boss.

"Will Lance live or die? The choice is yours." The hologram dissipated, leaving the silenced members of the Elite Four to soak in the information.

"You know it's a trap right?" sighed Lorelei.

"Naturally. That does not mean we should leave our comrade to suffer a terrible fate," argued Bruno with crossed arms.

"Here! Here!" agreed Will, banging his fist on the table.

Agatha stood, looking at her companions with a fierce determination. "Giovanni, and make no mistake I recognize that smug bastard's voice, speaks of a choice. There is none. If the man has the ability to take Lance, he will certainly be able to do the same to the rest of us. Our best chance is to combat him together. Prepare yourselves. Tomorrow, we go to war!"

Cinnabar Island Gym

Ash's purple Fighting Pokemon sprang onto the battlefield, with a fire in his eyes that matched the heat emanating from the Volcano.

"Flamethrower Houndoom."

"Stop that attack with Mach Punch!" Tyrogue vanished, reappearing in front of Houndoom in the blink of an eye and delivered a solid punch to the canine, causing it to yelp in pain and preventing Flamethrower from occurring.

"Roar!" immediately countered Blaine. Unlike with Arcanine, the move worked. Houndoom let out a might yell, successfully sending Tyrogue back into his Pokeball and forcing out a random party member. Unfortunately for Ash, that Pokemon was Shellder, and Blaine and his Houndoom had not been idle. Houndoom was predictably staring down Shellder, two feet from the creature.

"Fire Blast!" Intense flames amplified by a power boost and Sunny Day consumed the crustacean creature at point blank range. Type-advantage by damned, she didn't have a chance. Shellder was burned and knocked out in one powerful attack. Ash was stupefied. Dread teared at his being at seeing his Pokemon being taken down so ruthlessly after she was unwillingly pulled out.

"Focus Ketchum. You still have three Pokemon, just like me," snapped Blaine, bringing Ash back to reality.

"Return Shellder," muttered the boy, calling back his Pokemon. This wasn't exactly the Gym debut he had hoped for her, but that would have to be resolved at another time.

Blaine is way more dangerous than I gave him credit for. He's crafty, quick, and lethal. No holding back. With a deep breath, Ash hardened his features once more, sending Tyrogue back to the battlefield. The Fighting Pokemon was not amused as his previous exit.

"Stay focused Tyrogue and we will pull through," urged Ash, soothing his companion.

"Ha! Now there's that Ketchum coolness I love to see! Give me everything you have boy!"

"You asked for it old man. Mach Punch!"

"Sucker Punch!"

"Counter!"

"Bite!"

Back and forth the two Pokemon went. Houndoom scored in early hit with Sucker Punch, dealing minimal damage, which was immediately doubled by a Counter fist from Tyrogue. Currently, Tyrogue's arm was being crunched by Houndoom.

"Sweep the leg with Low Sweep!" ordered Ash. With the skill of a trained fighter, Tyrogue used his body weight to fall downward, kicking out and connecting with Houndoom's front legs with a super-effective attack, causing the Pokemon to release him and fall forward.

"Pretty good, but you're far too close. FIRE BLAST!" roared Blaine. The canine raised his head with a manic grin that promised pain. Opening his mouth, Ash could see the flames begin to form.

"Double Team," evenly ordered Ash, not breaking a sweat. Tyrogue gave off a similar grin to his opponent, duplicating himself into five copies, allowing Fire Blast to take down the one that remained in front of Blaine's hound.

"NOW FINISH WITH BRICK BREAK!" screamed Ash.

"DESTINY BOND!" desperately tried Blaine, bringing another trick to the table. That might have worked if Tyrogue hadn't lowered Houndoom's speed back to normal with Low Kick. Months of hard work and training showed as the fighter and his duplicates dashed forward, giving a mighty chop into Houndoom's core and slamming the mutt into the ground. Not one to brag, Tyrogue nodded to his fallen foe in respect, before walking away back to Ash's side of the battlefield.

"Your Pokemon have spirit Ash. Don't ever doubt it. Now, for my fifth. To battle Flareon!" The same Fire Pokemon from Stone Town graced the battlefield. Ash could tell that right away that this specimen was far more impressive though. It radiated power and muscles bulged from beneath the fur. The boy's eyes moved to his own Pokemon, who stood proud, eyeing his new opponent with determination.

Tyrogue clearly still wants to fight, and he might get his chance. However, he has no type advantage here, and Flareon looks well trained. It might be a risk, but only one of my remaining Pokemon has an advantageous move.

"Tyrogue, return for now and rest up. You may be needed soon," calmly said Ash, looking into Tyrogue's eyes for permission. Tyrogue didn't hesitate, giving his trainer a nod, before he was called back.

"So, will it be Pikachu, or will you be sending out your last Pokemon?" idly asked Blaine.

"See for yourself. I choose you!" yelled Ash, tossing a Poke Ball into the air. Ash's powerhouse emerged, flying in mid-air and giving off a mighty roar. Blaine looked positively giddy, seeing the beast before him.

"Now that's what i'm talking about! Let's get this party started with Shadow Ball!"

"Fly away and head towards the ceiling Charizard," ordered Ash. Flareon spat out the shadowy orb, but Charizard's arial mobility allowed him to avoid the attack with ease.

"Hidden Power!" blue and white shards of energy appeared and circled around Flareon, and then made a beeline for Charizard.

"Keep flying higher and try to dodge!" yelled Ash. His Pokemon certainly tried, climbing even higher, but one shard managed to make its mark, hitting Charizard's leg, and prompting an audible growl.

The energy was blue and enough for Charizard to react to. The typing on Hidden Power must be water then. Convenient for Blaine, but I think we can use that to our advantage as well," thought Ash, his lip curling at his plan.

"Keep flying buddy, you're nearly there," instructed the boy.

"You can run, but you can't hide. Hidden Power once more!" commanded Blaine.

Just a little longer... and NOW! Charizard had reached the ceiling.

"Look straight down and give your best Flamethrower at the oncoming attack!" shouted Ash. Charizard locked onto the oncoming projectiles and released his fire. The added downward momentum and Sunny Day increasing the power of the attack. The resulting clash between the attacks was a thick layer of steam, blocking Charizard from everyone's sight, just as Ash wanted.

"NOW ROCK SLIDE USING THE ROCKS FROM THE ROOF!"

"PREPARE TO DODGE!" yelled Blaine. There was a loud rumbling from above and rocks began falling from the ceiling, coming through the mist from random locations. Flareon was completely blind, and that made all the difference. The eveelution managed to avoid a few of the projectiles at first, but the rocks kept falling and her luck ran out.

"FLARE!" screamed the Pokemon, a rock connecting with her back and sending her down. Several more fell in the same spot, dealing repeated super-effective damage and burying the Pokemon until she could no longer be seen.

"Do you surrender?" Ash cooly asked, refusing to stop the attack lest the crafty man pull another thing out of nowhere.

"Wise of you to ask Ash, and yes. There's no way Flareon could catch Charizard at his current height, so battling further would be futile. I withdraw Flareon from the battle," answered Blaine with an approving nod.

"THAT'S ENOUGH CHARIZARD!" Ash yelled up high, prompting the onslaught to stop and Charizard to fly back down to the ground.

"Let yourself out girl," ordered the man. The rocks exploded outward, revealing a severely damaged Flareon with a fiery aura, but one that still stood.

"Return." Flareon was called back and Blaine was down to his final Pokemon.

"It's been a long time since i've been pushed to the end by a challenger Ash. In fact, I can count on one one hand the amount of times my team of six has come down to this last. Your father challenged me for his seventh Gym Badge, so his challenge was 3 on 3. However, he did face this very Pokemon 10 years ago.

"He did?" Ash asked with interest mixed with weariness.

"In a sense," darkly chuckled Blaine.

"COME FORTH, MAGMORTAR!" Blaine did not throw a Pokeball. Instead, the lava below the battlefield began to stir. The fire below shifting like rough waves in a storm, and then it happened. A figure exploded out of the lava like it was nothing, flying into the air and then landing on Blaine's side of the battlefield with a thud. The Pokemon stood on two clawed feet, had a round body, and was covered in red and yellow flame patterns. Where hands should have been, there were two cannon-like appendages. It also wore a perpetual disturbing grin on its face.

"That looks like a Magmar," observed Ash.

"That would be because Magmortar is Magmar's evolution Ash. It is not known well here in Kanto, but a friend in Sinnoh who shares my passion for Fire Pokemon owed me a favor, and the result is what you see. Be warned, Magmortar has tangled with the Elite Four, and we will not be holding back," grinned Blaine.

"We will not be intimidated so easily Blaine!" Ash glared at the man. Charizard roared in agreement. Blaine merely smiled.

"To the skies Charizard and back to the ceiling!" started Ash. Charizard took off, making his way up.

"Pursue him Magmortar," calmly responded Blaine. The Fire Pokemon aimed his hands to the ground, before releasing two blazing jets of fire, propelling him him into the air like a rocket, as Magmortar quickly gained ground.

What kind of a move is that? He's going faster than Charizard! At this rate, we won't reach the ceiling in time. Time for an audible.

"Turn around and use Dragon Breath!" Charizard ceased his flight, spinning on the spot and fired a beam of purple energy at his pursuer.

"Adjust your flight pattern to dodge and then shoot off a Thunderbolt!" retorted Blaine, making Ash's eyes widen at the implications. Magmortar increased the intensity of his jets, allowing him to soar higher and dodge the attack. In the next instant, one hand remained pointing down and spitting out fire, while the other locked onto the sitting duck that was Charizard.

"TAR!" cried the Pokemon, launching a bolt of electricity from his cannon.

"Flamethrower!" yelled Ash. Charizard opened his mouth and released a stream of flames powered by Sunny Day to meet the oncoming bolt of electricity. Somehow, Magmortar was still that much stronger and the electricity pierced the fire, connecting with Charizard in an instant and engulfing the Pokemon in electricity.

"NOOO!" cried Ash, seeing his first Pokemon light up and in such pain. The electricity didn't stop though and Charizard continue to suffer. Doing his best to think on the fly, time slowed down for the raven-haired boy.

That thing is a monster! It has enough power to sustain flight and deal an attack that makes my Charizard's Sunny Day powered one look like child's play. If Charizard can't stand up to it, i'm not sure how Pikachu and Tyrogue, who are both already tired from earlier battles, will stand a chance. No! Charizard has to win this here and now! Or, does he have to win? Maybe we simply need to not lose. Time to set it up and hope for the best, grimly thought the boy as time sped back up.

"FIGHT THROUGH THE PAIN AND FIRE AN AIR SLASH AT THE ARM PROPELLING MAGMORTAR IN THE AIR!" screamed Ash. Charizard's previously closed eyes, shut tight from the pain, opened, and he answered his trainers call. Fighting through the electricity, Charizard whipped a wing with power, shooting a rapid slash that connected with Magmortar's cannon of an arm. Magmortar winced at the damage, the flow of fire was disrupted, and the Pokemon began to fall to the ground. As a result, Thunderbolt also momentarily ceased.

"Now continue your climb Charizard at max speed!" yelled Ash. Charizard flew high, speeding to the ceiling with all that he had.

"Magmortar, catch yourself and don't give up the chase!" growled Blaine, annoyed at the temporary set back. Righting himself in mid-air, Magmortar shot down flames once more, preventing a crash, and quickly resuming his previous chase. Lucky for Ash, it took just long enough to give Charizard the time he needed.

"ROCK SLIDE!" Charizard wreaked havoc on the ceiling yet again, pouring rocks down on the fire titan that was getting closer.

"WEAVE THROUGH THOSE ROCKS AND GET CLOSE!" screamed Blaine. Magmortar certainly did his best, dodging most of the oncoming rocks, but taking serious super-effective damage along the way. In a few moments, Magmortar was close enough for the Gym leader's liking.

"FULL POWERED THUNDER PUNCH!" roared Blaine.

"ACCEPT IT!" fired back Ash. Magmortar lined up his fist, crackling with electricity and delivered a powerful blow to Charizard's chest, drilling the Pokemon into the ceiling. Charizard roared in agony, sticking to the ceiling with the fist still in his chest. Then, with a herculean effort, he opened his eyes and his tale flame grew in size and power.

Perfect.

"GRAB A HOLD OF MAGMORTAR AND FLY STRAIGHT TO THE GROUND WITH A SEISMIC TOSS!" Overcoming his pain, Charizard wrapped his arms around Magmortar, and began to soar to the grind with all of his might.

"NO! IT WILL NOT END LIKE THIS! FIRE BOTH OF YOUR CANNONS TO THE GROUND TO MITIGATE YOUR DESCENT!" yelled back Blaine. Magmortar obeyed, shooting jets of fire to the grind with all of his power.

Ash chuckled. "You know, that might have worked if Charizard planned on letting go."

"What do you—"

"DO NOT RELEASE MAGMORTAR! DIVE TO THE GROUND WITH HIM AT FULL SPEED!" screamed Ash, putting all of his emotion into the final command. Charizard gave one more roar, increasing his speed, and Blaine and Magmortar shared expressions of shock. The ground got closer fast. 50 feet became 40, 30, 20, 10, and...

BOOM! Both Pokemon slammed into the middle of the battlefield, bringing up dust, cracking the battlefield, and ripping the chains out of two corners of the room. Two chains remained, allowing it to remain in the air, though it still appeared to be ruined. The trainers, and spectators, watched on, looking for the results. The dust slowly settled, revealing one Pokemon on a knee, breathing heavily. The other was on the ground, twitching with electricity.

"Tar... Tar... Tar.." heavily breathed the kneeling Magmortar.

"Return Charizard," quietly muttered Ash, recalling his first friend from the floor.

"You did amazing buddy. Fighting through two tough battles like that... i'm proud of you," Ash whispered to his Poke Ball. Ash eyed Pikachu, giving his buddy a nod.

"Stop," interjected Blaine, throwing a white towel onto the battlefield, reminiscent of something the first Gym Leader Ash faced did.

"Why?" simply asked Ash.

"Why not?" countered Blaine, letting out a sigh.

"Ash, Magmortar suffered a great deal of damage from that stunt you and your Charizard pulled. He could very well finish off Pikachu and Tyrogue, or he could suffer additional unnecessary damage in defeat. Luckily, we don't need to find out. My job as a Gym Leader is not just to win battles boy. It is to test trainers and the bond they share with their Pokemon. By all accounts, it is a test i'd say you and yours passed with flying colors. It takes real trust to pull off a move like that. Ash Red Ketchum, you are worthy of competing at the Indigo Plateau. I concede," finished Blaine with a smile, calling back his own Pokemon.

"...Thanks Blaine," Ash smiled back.

Ash was awarded that which he had sought from the moment he started his journey. He was granted the Volcano Badge, opening the door to potential greatness. Walking out of the Volcano with his friends, things were certainly looking up for the aspiring Pokemon Master. Little did he know, that a storm was not merely coming, but it had finally arrived.

END CHAPTER

It has been over a week since I last posted. I did say it would be a while with Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl lol. First, a quick brag that I managed to chain 7 Shiny Ralts today! Getting back to the point, this chapter is over 7K words in length, making it the longest of this story. I hope it serves as a worthy apology for the wait. Also, I used a certain boss battle from a video game as inspiration for Ash's strategy with Rock Slide. Can anyone guess which game and boss?

Next Time - We begin the First Movie Arc.

Guest - Thank you for the review! Will Mewtwo break free from the Dark Ball? Probably, because otherwise Giovanni wins and the story is over. Just stay tuned to see what happens though lol.

Reader - Thanks for the review! I hope the Gym Battle lived up to your expectations. We are getting to the good stuff regarding Giovanni and Mewtwo. Stay tuned.

Nobody - Thanks for the review! Those movies will not be happening off screen. With the changes I make to the plot, hopefully the reasons for Pokemon 4Ever being excluded is self-explanatory. As for movies two and three, just pretend that the collector does not exist and Molly's father never disappeared.

Uchiha-rune - Thanks for the review! Shipping will be made clear after Hoenn.

Jas 1290 - Thanks for the review! Yeah, Ash does not play around with Team Rocket.

Thunder 999 - Thanks for the review! It was an Egg move that Charmander happened to know. Sorry If that was not made clear, but I wanted some unpredictability.

Jonathan-Mandrake - Thanks for the review! I appreciate your point about Ash having to struggle with a Pokemon in the anime to build character. That said, there are a few things here to consider. Ash did have an abused Pokemon that initially refused to battle at the beginning of this story, which was Bulbasaur. Ash's character has grown through his experiences with Damien and Team Rocket. Gyarados and Misty will fulfill a similar arc in this story. It is possible that Ash will encounter another Pokemon that is difficult to work with though.

CaptainSammyAngel - Thanks for the review! Hope you liked the battle. Yes, the Dark Ball was a nice plot device set up back in Mt. Moon. Glad we got to see it used here, especially since it won't be in this story in the 4th movie, which will be absent.

Espeon860 - Thanks for the review! Hope you enjoyed the long battle. Stay tuned for the beginning of the 1st Movie Arc.

Remember to review with your thoughts and critique :)

Smell ya later!