SATURDAY
Battle Royale
Ash woke up early the next day, luckily without a headache.
Leaving Pikachu to sleep a bit longer, Ash went downstairs for breakfast.
- Good morning Ash.
- Good morning Evan
- Did you sleep well?
- Yes, excellent, I would have stayed in bed longer if it weren't for the fact that I have many things to do
-Oh, I see - Evan said, while he served Ash breakfast- will you come back for lunch?
- I don't think so... Are you going to the Royale Dome?
- Honestly, I hadn't thought about it.
-You should go, you can get to know the islands of Alola a little more... - Ash said, devouring his breakfast - I guess that since you arrived you haven't visited the other islands
- Ehm no... The truth is that I haven't gone out yet
- In that case, you should go today, not only to see the battle, but to see a little more of Alola
Seeing that Evan was a bit hesitant about it, he added
- Don't worry about my Pokemon, they can stay alone for a few hours. I can leave Bulbasaur in charge
- OK, I will go
- Brilliant! I'll tell Frank, so he'll book you a ticket.
- Thank you
After breakfast, Ash went to the backyard to share a few minutes with his Pokémon, while he checked his cell phone.
He had several messages from his friends, possibly about yesterday's battle. He would read them later, when he had time to respond.
He also had an email from Frank
"Champion Ash
Some Gym Leader applications have already started coming in.
As they arrive, I will leave them on your desk, so you can read them as soon as you have time.
Frank"
- Champion Ash? Why will Frank be so formal to write the mails? - Ash wondered in surprise. - Perhaps it is an obligation to be this formal when dealing with official matters?
Not sure, Ash decided to reply to the mail the same way.
"Dear Frank
Thanks, I'll go to the office later to check them, also I have other things I'd like to check and get ready for Monday.
I would also like to ask if you can reserve a ticket for Evan for today's activity.
Regards Ash"
After sending the mail and checking that he had no more pending, Ash gathered all his Pokémon
- Hi guys, how have you been here in Alola?
They all responded very enthusiastically, although they hadn't shared that much with Ash, it was definitely more than they normally did being in Prof. Oak's Laboratory. And the Alola weather was wonderful.
- Glad to hear it. I wanted to tell you that everyone has been very amazed with the battles we've had, and with how strong you are - Ash said, congratulating his Pokémon that had already participated in battle - we still have several battles left so some of you still have the opportunity to show off in front of the public - he added looking at the rest of his Pokémon - as I had told you, there are not enough battles for everyone to participate, but once the Festival is over I assure you that we will continue to have exhibition battles in the future, so don't worry, because everyone will have their turn, okay?
His Pokémon again responded cheerfully, happy that eventually they would all have a chance to show off their skills.
- Today in the afternoon we have an event on Akala Island, and Evan will go with us, so you will be alone at home. As always Bulbasaur will be in charge - Ash said, looking at his trusty companion - I don't want you to cause any troubles - he added, looking specifically at the youngest and most messy of the group, including Corphish, Oshawott, Scraggy and Totodile - Remember that you are now part of of the regional Champion's team, you cannot go around causing damage or you will make us all look bad, understood?
They all nodded quickly
- Great, in a while I'll be back for those who will participate in today's battle
Then, along with Greninja and Lucario, they headed to the second floor lounge room, their usual training place. The previous day's battle had turned out just the way he wanted it to, but it seemed he had gone too far in using his ability to sense the presence of other Pokémon, as he ended with a terrible headache.
Ash knew that the only way to avoid this was to keep training, and then his body would get used to it. And since he planned to use everything he learned during the closing battle of the festival, he had no time to lose, he had to perfect his aura handling as much as possible, as well as the connection with Greninja and Lucario.
After an hour of training, Ash decided it was time to head to the office.
Remembering that tonight he would be staying in Akala, Ash packed his backpack with everything he needed for the next day. He then went in search of the cards that he was to deliver to Frank, and his Pokémon for the afternoon activity.
- Evan, I'm going to the office now, and from there I'll go to Akala - Ash said, approaching Evan in the Living - I already informed Frank that you'll join us later
- Oh thank you very much
- Tomorrow I will need your help with the transfer of my Pokémon for the battle, since I will not be able to take them today
- Sure, no problem
- Great thanks. See you later
Leaving the house, Ash didn't go straight to the office, instead he went to the forest, to the clearing where he normally met with Tapu Koko.
Ash finally reached his office. He was very happy since he will be able to carry out the closing battle of the festival as he wanted... Now all that was left was to talk about it with Mr. Goodshow and Prof. Kukui, hopefully they agree with the changes he had planned
Entering the building, Ash went straight to Frank's office. In it he found Frank working on his computer.
- Good morning, Frank.
- Good morning Ash.
- Did you get my email?
- Yes, I already have the tickets ready for Evan and your friends
- Oh great, thank you very much - Ash said surprised that he had also included the others
- They only need to give their names at the entrance and they will let them pass without problem
- Excellent, I'll let themn know right away
Before he forgot, Ash pulled out his cell phone.
"Ash: Hi Misty, how's everything over there? Are you already in Akala?
I don't know if you already got tickets for today or not, but Frank booked tickets for you. You just have to give your names at the entrance and you will be able to enter.
See you later"
"Ash: Evan, Frank left a ticket reserved for you, you just have to give your name at the stadium entrance and they'll let you enter without problems
See you later"
- I have some doubts... How did you know the name of the others? - Ash asked, remembering that he hadn't formally introduced them yet.
- I'm your assistant... I must know those things - Frank answered, as if Ash had asked the dumbest question in the world
- Oh... I have one more... Is it an obligation to be so formal in emails?
- What do you mean?
- Because you call me "Champion Ash"
- Oh... ahaha, no, it's not an obligation, but for me it's important to do it... After all you are the Champion (and my boss), and you deserve my respect... I know you said to call you just Ash. .. But I'm glad that I can call you Champion Ash, even if it's just by mail
Surprised and a little embarrassed with Frank's response, Ash take a few seconds before he respond.
- I understand... Thanks Frank
- Did you bring the letters?
- Yes .. - Ash said, handing them over.
- Isn't there one for Misty?
- No, she already knows the secret... Besides, Goh might get suspicious if she also receives a letter.
- It's true - Frank said, putting them away in his desk - I'll take care of them before I leave for Akala
- Thanks, I'll go check those applications then
- Sure
Before entering his office, Ash left Pikachu and Greninja in the living room, as usual. Today he had not been able to bring Lucario, since for the afternoon battles he would use four Pokemon
On his desk were four application forms, two of them were from trainers from Melemele, one from Ula-Ula and one from Akala.
Sitting down, Ash began to carefully read each form, especially the part where they explained his idea for the gym challenge. In his notebook he took notes of each of the applicants, and in the different forms he made notes on questions that he should ask the trainers when interviewing them in person
As he finished reading the application forms, Ash remembered that he wanted to ask Frank something about Monday's conference. Picking up the phone from his desk, Ash dialed Frank's office extension.
- Hello?
- Frank... I have a question... How is the issue of the badges going? Will we have some ready for Monday? I would like to be able to show them during the press conference
- They have already started to be manufactured, but I don't know if we will have them by Monday
- Could you find out? I wish we could have at least one of each so we can show them that day
- Sure, I'll see it right away
- Thank you
Hanging up Ash looked at the clock on the wall, he still had time before he had to catch the Ferry. This afternoon's competition started right after lunch, earlier than the previous battles, since being a small tournament it would be last a bit longer. Maybe he should buy something out there and eat it on the Ferry
Since he still had time, Ash decided to review and update his to-do list. In his notebook she had been writing all the ideas that he was having about the things that he should or wanted to do after Monday, once his appointment was already official.
Satisfied with his work and taking one last look at his long to-do list, Ash thought aloud
- I must speak with Professor Kukui to see when we can meet... Also with Officer Jenny and Nurse Joy... My schedule will definitely be very tight next week...
Ash was interrupted when he heard a knock on the door.
- Come in - seeing Frank enter he added - What's going on?
- I already spoke with the manufacturer of the badges, he will send us a sample of the four medals so that we can show them on Monday.
- Excellent. When do they arrive?
- The same Monday first thing in the morning
- Fine, thanks Frank.
- You're welcome... Do you want me to order you some lunch?
- Now that you mention it, that would be a really good idea.
- What do you want to eat?
- Nothing specific... Whatever you want
- Okay
- Thank you... Ah, Frank... before you go
- Tell me
- The meeting with Mr. Goodshow scheduled for Monday morning is to define the details of the press conference, right?
- Um... No.
- No? And what is it about?
- Surprise? - Frank answered pretending innocence - I'm sorry, but I can't tell you
- Okay, I know Mr. Goodshow likes mystery.
- Yes...
- Could you see if Mr. Goodshow and Professor Kukui are free to have lunch with me on Sunday at Akala?, so that we can define well what we will do in the press conference
- Sure, no problem
- Thank you
A few minutes later Ash received a notification on his cell phone. Frank had added Sunday lunch to his schedule.
As soon as the lunch he had ordered arrived, Frank took it to Ash's office. There Ash enjoyed his food, while he wrote a little speech for Monday
It wasn't really a speech as such, and he doubted that he would read it that day...but he had a lot of things he wanted to say...he wanted to clarify his ideas and not forget anything.
As soon as Ash finished his lunch, he began to order everything so that he could catch the Ferry as soon as possible.
With Pikachu on his shoulder, and Greninja on his Pokeball, Ash was ready to go. Frank had left just after delivering Ash's lunch, apparently he had to get to the Royale Dome earlier, to organize some things.
Since his office was very close to the beach and the pier, the trip to take the Ferry was not long, but it took Ash several minutes to get there. Mainly because he met several families with small children, who, seeing him pass by, came to say hello and ask him to take a picture with them.
Once on the Ferry, Ash found a comfortable place and took the time to check the messages of his friends.
First the Kanto - Hoen - Sinnoh group
"Max: Ash!! That battle was great!! What a great strategy, you really surprised your opponent
Dawn: Not just him... I think we were all surprised by the battle. How did you manage to see through the sand and smoke?
By the way, great use of the countershield!
Brock: I think I have a theory...
May: Which one? I also want to know how he did it.."
- Hell, Brock already guessed everything... At least he didn't say anything to the others. I'll have to talk to him in private
"Ash: Hi Brock, I don't know what your theory is about yesterday's battle, but please don't tell the others. I want to give everyone a surprise in a few more days and for that to work, they must not know"
To his surprise, Brock answered immediately
"Brock: Sure, I won't say anything, don't worry..
If is really what I'm thinking, I can't wait to see what you and Lucario have prepared."
"Ash: You'll see. Thanks for not telling them"
Now that he had Brock on his side, it was time to answer Max and the others.
"Ash: Thanks guys, I'm glad you enjoyed it
I hope you can see the Battle Royale this afternoon, I'm sure you'll like that style of battle"
Ash didn't want to say anything about how he had been able to "see" through the sand and smoke, maybe if he didn't say anything they'd forget about it, though he really doubted Max would...
Cilan and Iris hadn't written anything, so he decided to move on to Kalos' group.
"Serena: Ash I saw your battle! It was great, I was very surprised with the countershield, great attack, how did you come up with something like that?
Bonnie: It was great Ash!! It was very exciting to finally see the countershield... How did you manage to find out where Krookodile was?
Clemont: Great battle Ash, as always using the field in your favor"
"Ash: Thanks guys, I'm glad you enjoyed it
The countershield came to me thanks to the training that Dawn was doing for a contest.
I hope you can see the Battle Royale this afternoon, I'm sure you'll like that style of battle"
Arriving at Akala Island, Ash immediately went to the Royale Dome, there he met Frank.
- Hi Frank
- Hi Ash. I'll show you which dressing room they assigned you
- Thank you, but first I would like to have a quick word with Mr. Goodshow and Prof. Kukui, have you seen them?
- They're here, but I don't know where... If you want, I'll tell them to go to your dressing room.
- Yes, if they have time, but if they are too busy it doesn't matter... We can leave it for later
- Ok, I'll see if they're have time - Frank said, stopping in front of a door - this is your dressing room
- Thank you
Upon entering the dressing room Ash took out his cell phone, and seeing that there was only about half an hour left before it started, he decided to send a message to Misty
"Ash; Hi Misty, I just got to the Stadium. Are you guys here yet?
I have to talk to Mr. Goodshow before we start, so I can't go and say hello, but I'll see you as soon as this is over.
Say hello to the others, and again tell them I'm sorry about yesterday."
Ash hadn't personally apologized to his friends yet. On one hand because he hadn't had time, but mainly because he preferred to do it in person and not by text. He knew that the day before he had taken it out on them, and that he should apologize
At that moment someone knocked on the door
- Ash? - Kukui said, peeking into the room
- Hello Profesor
Right behind Kukui came Mr. Goodshow
- Good afternoon Ash.
- Good afternoon Mr. Goodshow
- I see you have already started your Champion duties - Mr. Goodshow said with a smile
Ash, a little stunned by the comment and somewhat unsure if he had done the right thing, didn't know what to say. Mr. Goodshow, seeing Ash's astonishment, added
- I think it's great. Frank told me that you wanted to meet tomorrow to talk about the press conference.
- Ehm... Yes, I had doubts about who will speak during the conference, who will explain the rules... if we will explain the rules first and then make the announcement, or if it will be the other way around... Things like that - Ash said
- Oh, I see - said Mr. Goodshow - yes, we can leave that defined tomorrow without problems
-Great... Also I was thinking that it would be a good idea to show the badges and the initial Pokémon of the region
- That is a really good idea - said Kukui
- Great, Frank has already contacted the company that will make the nadges, and they will send us some by Monday - Ash said
- Excellent - said Mr. Goodshow amazed at how well Ash seemed to be handling everything
- Professor, do you have initial Pokémon to be able to show on Monday? - Ash asked.
- The truth is that... No. Since there are usually not many new trainers, so I don't always have the starters available; As soon as I know there will be someone new, I organize myself to have them - said Kukui
- Probably with the beginning of the new league there will be more new trainers, and you will need to have more at hand the starters - said Ash
- It's true... But don't worry, I'll have them by Monday
- Brilliant!
At that moment, they were interrupted by a knock on the door
- Sorry for the interruption, but we're about to start - Frank said, entering the room
- Sure, let's go - said Mr. Goodshow
Ash got out first, following Frank, while Mr. Goodshow and Kukui stayed a few seconds longer in the dressing room.
- I told you he had Champion material - said Mr. Goodshow
- I never doubted his skills in battle or as a leader, but he has surprised me with all the good ideas he has had... and above all how "organized" he is... At school he was never like that
- Well, he has always dreamed of being Champion, it shows that he is very committed to his role...-said Mr. Goodshow - And perhaps his ability to create unique strategies in battle will help him plan things... thinking two steps ahead...
"Good evening Alola!
Today we are at the Royale Dome, for a new event of our Manalo Festival
Today we will have a small Battle Royale tournament
Since you are watching us live from other regions, we will explain a little the rules for those who are not very familiar with this battling style .
In Royal Battles, normally 4 trainers compete at the same time. During these battles everyone attacks at the same time, where the last Pokemon last standing is the winner.
There are also some variations, such as fighting in tags, where they take turns to fight. Or in simple battles between only 2 trainers
In the small tournament that we will have today, 32 trainers will compete. In the first round we will have 4 battles where they will have to fight in randomly created pairs. The 4 winning pairs will advance to the next round" said the announcer
The public began to applaud very enthusiastically, today they could see many battles
"Then let's see the screen where the system will draw the pairs and who will participate in each battle" said the announcer, pointing to the giant screen above the ring
On the giant screen, the photos of the 32 trainers began to appear, including Ash and Kukui, and to Ash's surprise, there were also the photos of Kiawe and Lana
Then the photos began to be mixed in order to randomly define the pairs. First the pairs began to appear, and then they began to separate into groups to define who would participate in the different battles.
Kiawe and Lana had to participate in the first battle, whom the system had designated as a duo.
"Very well, our first battle of the day has the following pairs
Kiawe and Lana with Marowak and Primarina; Sean and Tim with Raticate and Feraligator; Vito and Noah with Poliwrath and Vigoroth; Pete and Amy with Machamp and Lopunny"
The four pairs approached the ring, ready to begin the battle.
The battle ended very quickly, Kiawe and Lana amply demonstrated the friendship they have and that it was not the first time they had fought side by side.
"It's time for the second battle, this time our pairs are...
The masked Royal and Chris with Incineroar and Decidueye; Liz and Dylan with Primarina and Ursaring; Mike and Tina with Golem and Sudowoodo; Bruce and Mary with Muk and Tangela"
The public went crazy when they saw the masked Royale approach the ring. It was very noticeable who the public supported.
Again the battle ended very quickly. Despite Golem and Muk's attempts to cheat, as members of the Revengers used to do, Incineroar and Decidueye defeated the other duos with little trouble.
"The time has come for the third battle, the pairs are
Mr Electric and Mad Magma with Electivire and Magmortar; Ana and Erick with Golduck and Diggersby; Bill and Felix with Sandrew and Croagunk; Gaston and Xavier with Hitmonlee and Blaziken"
The third battle also ended very quickly, as Mr Electric and Mad Magma, as always, broke the rules and came out winners.
"And it's time for our fourth and final battle of the first round. The participants are Ash and Nicky with Heracross and Monferno; Sophie and Rita with Hitmontop and Swampert; Sandra and Sam with Meditate and Beartic; Lily and Gabe with Ambipon and Weavile"
Again the public went crazy to see Ash approach the ring with the other trainers
"Okay, it's time to start. All duos go to their corners" said the announcer
Heracross, Swampert, Meditate and Ambipon were the first to enter the ring, ready to fight.
Just before the bell rang, three of the participants looked at each other and nodes in an accomplice way, apparently they had agreed to together attack Ash first.
- Meditate Dream eater! - Sandra said quickly.
Ash, despite having time to react, decided not to and let the attack hit Heracross.
As soon as the attack was about to hit Heracross, Rita and Lily joined the attack.
- Swampert Mud Slap! - Rita said.
- Ambipon Swift! - Lily yelled.
Ash, ready to start his strategy, waits until the last moment to give orders to Heracross
- Sleep talk! - Ash yelled.
Heracross quickly dodged the attacks coming at him, and prepared himself to attack
At the same time, Sandra ordered a new attack on Meditate.
- Thunder punch!
Heracross, still using Sleep talk, dodged the attack and began using Fury Attacks, hitting Meditate repeatedly before finishing with a powerful horn atack that sent Meditate back several meters, directly hitting the pole Sandra was standing on.
"Meditite has been knocked out and the duo of Sandra and Sam have lost their first Pokémon" said the commenter
- Beartic, your turn! - Sam said, sending his Pokémon into the ring
- Well done Heracross-said Ash, congratulating his Pokémon as soon as it woke up - Do you want Monferno to try it? - asked Ash to his partner Nicky - Or do you prefer to wait?
- I could try it now
- Great, remember what we talked about...
- Yes, I know
Ash, used to fighting with his friends by his side, had no problem fighting in pairs, and together with Nicky they had devised a strategy to face the battle, assuming that the other pairs would work together to try to defeat them. first
Monferno and Heracross traded places and the fight continued. Again the others were the ones who attacked first, while Monferno calmly waited in his corner
- Beartic Ice Punch!
- You too Swampert
- Double Slap Ambipom!
- Wait a little longer - Ash advised Nicky
- Yes - agreed Nicky, to then address his Pokémon - Now!
As soon as the three Pokémon were close enough to Monferno, Nicky gave the order, and Monferno began to execute the planned strategy.
When everyone was close to Monferno, he lit his flames to the maximum and began to use double team. His copies quickly surrounded the three Pokémon who stopped their attack upon being surrounded. At that moment Monferno and the copies began to use flame wheel spinning around the three Pokémon hitting them several times from all sides.
Monferno's attacks were very fast and unexpected, so the three Pokémon were taking a lot of damage and couldn't defend themselves.
Monferno quickly cornered the three Pokémon in the center of the ring, leaving them back to back.
- Monferno, Fire punch! - ordered Nicky
The wheel of fire suddenly came to a stop and the clones disappeared, revealing the real Monferno who was standing right in front of Beartic, who receive the heavy attack squarely.
Beartic, receiving the attack, fell backwards, falling on top of Swampert and Ambipom.
"Monferno using a great strategy has knocked out Beartic!, so we already have one team less"
Seeing that Ambipom and Swampert were very tired, both pairs decided to change Pokémon.
- Hitmontop your turn - said Sophia, Rita's partner
- Come on Weavile - said Gabe, Lily's partner
- Do you want to continue? - Ash asked Nicky.
- I think Monferno would like a break
- Ok, Heracross your turn again - Ash said
- Hitmontop Quick Spin! - Sophia said.
- Weavile Shadow Claw! - Gabe said.
This time Ash didn't wait for the attacks, he preferred to attack in order to defend himself. Both Pokémon were coming straight at Heracross, Hitmontop spinning from the left and Weavile from the right
.Heracross focus on Weavile for now, get closer and... - Ash said, waiting for Heracross to be close enough to give his order so that Weavile didn't have time to dodge - Horn atack!
Heracross quickly obeyed and with a swift movement dodged Weavile's attack and then hit him with his horn and sent him straight towards Hitmontop, knocking him down as well.
- Great, now Mega horn! - Ash said, taking advantage of the fact that both Pokémon had been knocked down and still couldn't stand up.
Heracross rammed both Pokémon at the same time with the powerful attack, sending them straight into the ring ropes where they fell in defeat.
"And with a powerful attack, Ash defeat two Pokémon at once! This leaves both pairs with only one Pokémon, and they're both very tired" said the commenter
- Great Heracross, well done - Ash congratulated his Pokémon - Do you want to continue? - Ash asked Nicky.
- Eh... Of course - said Nicky, amazed with the power of Heracross - Monferno, let's go
Swampert and Ambipom also returned to the ring, and they looked really tired.
- Ambipom Focus punch! - Lily ordered. Ambipom was too tired to have a long battle, he had to finish this soon
- Dodge and then use Cut on Ambipom - Nicky said to Monferno
Monferno and Ambipom attack at once, trying to knock out their opponent. But before this happened, Rita took advantage of the moment to attack as well.
- Swampert Mud slap ro Monferno! - Rita said. It was better to keep the attacks at a distance, Swampert was so tired he couldn't dodge in time.
Monferno managed to dodge Ambipom's blow and land his powerful attack. Sending Ambipom against the ropes. But just at that moment he received Swampert's attack, sending him to the ropes on the opposite side.
"A double knockout! Monferno and Ambipom can't continue, leaving Heracross and Swampert as the last contestants"
This time Ash was the one who made the first move, and it was so fast that Swampert didn't even have time to react.
- ;Now! Furious horn attack! - Ash said as soon as the bell rang to continue the battle
Heracross dashed up to Swampert and slammed his horn into Swampert, sending him into the ropes, then continued with a relentless Furious Attack. Swampert cornered against the ropes could not dodge or fight back, and in a few seconds he fell defeated
"And Heracross is the winner! So Ash and Nicky go on to the next round!
Now the computer will randomly create the groups that will compete in the next round" said the announcer
The photos of the 8 trainers of the four winning pairs appeared on the giant screen, and they began to mix in order to create the two groups for the next round.
"The first group consists of Ash, Lana, Mr. Electric and Mád Magma.
The second battle will be between the Masked Royale, Kiawe, Nicky and Chris
For the second battle, the trainers can change Pokémon if they want, if they don't want to, don't worry, because we will have a few minutes of break so that their Pokémon can recover" said the announcer
During the break in the television broadcast they began to show commercials, and in the stadium people took the opportunity to go in search of something to eat
During this short break the trainers went back to their dressing rooms to get ready. On the way to his dressing room, Ash ran into Kiawe and Lana
- Guys! - Ash said, approaching them. When Kiawe and Lana turned to look at him, Ash noticed that Kiawe looked a bit angry. Remembering that he still hadn't apologized, he added - I'm sorry about last night guys... I shouldn't have taken it out on you... I know that during these days you have had to do, or not do, many things just for me... It wasn't fair to you, i'm really sorry
- Okay Ash, thanks for the apology... - Lana said - we understand that you have been very busy, and that you were tired last night
- But you're right, you shouldn't have taken your frustration out on us - Kiawe said, still a little annoyed with Ash
- I know... It won't happen again, I promise - Ash said
- You better keep that promise Ash - Kiawe replied, this time with a smile
-Thanks guys - Ash said, happier and relieved to see that his friends had forgiven him
- I wouldn't be so happy yet - said Kiawe
- It's true... You still need to apologize to Misty
- Oh dear ..- Ash said, that would be difficult
Seeing Ash's worried face, Lana decided to change the subject.
- Ash, will you still use Heracross in the next round?
- Oh, right! That was what I wanted to talk to you about ..- Ash said, as he began to walk towards his dressing room - let's go to the dressing room, there we can sit down and rest a bit, there are still a few minutes before the next round begins
Lana and Kiawe followed Ash to his dressing room in silence. Upon arrival, they both looked around in astonishment.
- Do you have a dressing room for yourself? - Kiawe asked.
- And not only that... It's much bigger and with more things than ours - added Lana
Indeed, the room was quite spacious, with a couple of comfortable sofas, a coffee table, and a side table. In it there was a coffee pot, a pitcher of juice, a bowl with fruit and another with berries, a cookie jar, and finally a plate with some small sandwiches.
- What do you mean? - Ash said, approaching the table to take an Oran berry. Then he pulled Heracross out of his Pokeball - Eat this, you did great. you deserve a good rest
- We mean that this place is great and you have it to yourself... - Kiawe said
- We were assigned one that is a little smaller and to share it between 4 people - added Lana
- Not to mention that we had no food - said Kiawe
-Ehm... The food wasn't here before...they should have brought it recently - Ash tried to explain, passing Oran berries to his friends, so they could give them to their Pokemon
The truth is that he did not know that the other competitors had had to share a dressing room, while he had one for himself. He hadn't seemed strange to him, since everything in it (including the food) was very similar to the dressing rooms he had been in for the battles with the Kahunas. Surely Frank had made all the arrangements about it.
- I was very surprised to see you compete today, you hadn't told me that you would participate - Ash said, trying to change the subject about the dressing rooms
- Well, you're not the only one with secrets Ash - Kiawe said, giving the Oran berry to Marowak
- Professor Kukui invited us to participate. He contacted us during thursday night - added Lana, giving the Oran Berry to Primarina
- Brilliant! He also invited Sophocles and Mallow? - Ash asked.
-No... he said that he had two quotas, and that he knew that they were not as interested in battles as the two of us - Kiawe replied
- I see .. - Ash said
- Will you continue with Heracross then? - Lana asked again.
- I don't think so... I want to give as many of my Pokémon as possible the opportunity to participate in battle, I promised them that no one would repeat themselves
- Oh.. And who will you use? - Kiawe asked.
- Among the Pokémon I brought for today... I think the best option is Incineroar
- Really? I thought you would keep it to be able to face Professor Kukui - said Kiawe
- Nah... I have another strategy in mind in case we face him
- Incineroar huh? - Lana said thoughtfully. After all, she had to compete against Ash in the next round.
- Will you continue with Primarina? - Ash asked.
- Yes ..
- I don't really like the idea of facing you Lana... But if I had to do it I would prefer to do it in a one-on-one battle... Without the interference of Mr. Electric and Mád Magma cheats - Ash said
- I was thinking the same thing - added Lana - surely now they are planning some trap to use later
- In that case, how about we take care of those cheaters first, and then have our battle?
- Okay .. - Lana said
- In that case, the best thing would be to plan some kind of strategy - added Ash
"It's time for the second round, and the participants of the first battle are ready!
We have Electivire, Magmortar, Primarina, and Incineroar in their corners. Whoever wins this match will go to the final" explained the commentator
The four trainers and their Pokémon headed to their respective corners. Ash and Lana were in adjoining corners, which would make it much easier to carry out their strategy.
At that moment the bell rang and the battle began.
- Surf! - Lane yelled.
- Thunder punch! - Mr Electric said
- Fire punch! - ordered Mad Magma
The three trainers ordered their attacks at the same time as soon as they heard the bell, while Ash decided to wait for the right moment to attack.
Just as Ash had foreseen, the Revengers had planned a strategy, and apparently this was to first attack Lana together, to prevent her from helping Ash.
Electivire and Magmortar tried to attack Primarina together, but the Surf attack was very powerful and managed to parry the attack with no problem, even sending Magmortar into the ropes.
Electivire, while stoping his attack, was not much affected, and quickly returned to attempt to attack Primarina.
- Flamecharge! - Ash shouted, who had been waiting until the last minute to give his order and thus surprise Electivire
Electivire had no time to react and took the powerful attack, being thrown into the ropes behind him. The force of the impact made him bounce off them, propelling him back toward Incineroar.
- Cross chop! - Ash said quickly, to take advantage of the opportunity
Incineroar wasted no time, picking up a bit of momentum and dashing towards Electivire to once again land a heavy blow. This time Electivire was thrown backwards, hitting the corner post squarely.
- Finish it off with Fire blast! - Ash said.
And without giving any respite or time to react, Incineroar dealt the final blow to Electivire, knocking him out for good.
"In an amazing display of power Incineroar knocked down Electivire without giving him the slightest chance to attack or defend himself" said the astonished commenter
Electivire and Magmortar tried to attack Primarina together, but the Surf attack was very powerful and managed to parry the attack with no problem, even sending Magmortar into the ropes.
Electivire, while stoping his attack, was unaffected, and quickly tried to attack Primarina again.
- Flamecharge! - Ash shouted, who had been waiting until the last minute to give his order and thus surprise Electivire
Electivire had no time to react and took the powerful attack, being thrown into the ropes behind him.
- Excellent, the plan is working - Lana said. Taking advantage of the fact that Magmortar still didn't stand up, she added - Primarina uses Sparkling Aria!
Primarina created a large bubble and launched it at Magmortar, who was trying to stand up and when he received the attack he fell again.
- Good Primarina - Lana said, looking to where Electivire was being hit a second time by Incineroar
- Flamethrower! - scream Mad Magma
Within a second of Lana's distraction, Magmortar had risen to his feet and was now about to launch a powerful attack at Primarina.
- Aqua jet! - Lana yelled.
Primarina easily dodged the attack, then struck Magmortar from the side, sending it straight into the newly fallen Electivire.
"In an amazing display of power Incineroar knocked down Electivire without giving her the slightest chance to attack or defend himself" said the amazed commenter "And the same thing happened with Magmortar! Primarina use very well her type advantage and took down Magmortar with no problem."
- Good job Lana - Ash said.
The strategy had worked perfectly. Since Primarina would be greatly affected by Electivire's electric attacks, and Magmortar by Primarina's attacks, they had decided to split the efforts and each take care on a cheater, giving them no time to cheat.
"That was a very good strategy between Lana and Ash... But now they will have to face each other to decide who goes to the next round" said the commentator
- May the best win! - Lana said
- Of course, we must give our best! - Ash answered.
A few years ago, Ash hated fighting with his friends in important situations, but over time he learned that not going all out in battle (especially in battles with his friends) was a very bad idea, and a very disrespectful attitude towards his Pokémon, his friends and the public... and even with himself
- Incineroar, use Cross... Huh?
When Ash was ready to start his attack, in the middle of the ring (between Incineroar and Primarina) an unexpected attack landed... A Flamethrower
- What...? - Lana wondered.
In the corner where Electivire and Magmortar had fallen defeated, both Pokémon were now standing, ready to return to battle, despite having already been defeated.
"And in a clear violation of the rules Magmortar and Electivire attempt to return to battle" said the commenter
- I knew you would try to cheat - Ash said - come on Lana!
- You'll see! - answered Lana - Now Primarina!
- You too Incineroar! - Ash said.
Without giving any specific orders, so their cheaters opponent wouldn't know how they would attack, Ash and Lana put their "Anti-cheating" plan into action.
Incineroar used Fire blast and Primarina Icy wind, generating a large cloud of steam, bewildering the cheating Revengers, who couldn't see their opponents.
Ash and Lana knew that the only way to stop them from trying to get back into the fight was to defeat them for good, and the only way to do that was with their respective Z-Moves.
Hiding in the cloud of steam, both trainers quietly commanded their Z moves, as soon as they were both charged Ash gave the final instructions.
- Electivire and Magmortar are in front of you, just a bit to the left towards the corner where Magmortar originally was
With this, both Pokémon launched their powerful Z moves, which colliding with their opponents caused the steam cloud to become even denser.
"And with that great combination of attacks, Magmortar and Electivire have been defeated again" said the commentator once the steam dissipated
Luckily this time some security guards forced the Revengers to return their Pokémon and leave the ring
"Now that both Pokémon have definitely retired from the ring, the battle can continue" said the commenter
Lana took advantage of the interruption to change corners, and thus directly face Ash
- Flamecharge!
- Aqua jet!
Both Pokemon collided in the middle of the ring, Incineroar taking more damage than Primarina. Given the force of the shock, both Pokémon returned to their corners.
- Surf! - Lana said, knowing that it would be difficult for Incineroar to dodge it
- Countershield!
Using Fire blast, Incineroar was able to use his version of the creative move, effectively fending off Lana's attack.
- Oh, no... Just what I didn't want - Lana said
The clash of the attacks had once again created a cloud of steam that covered the entire ring, and Lana knew that this would only benefit Ash.
- Cross chop! - ordered Ash - right in front of you!.
Ash knew that his Fire-type attacks weren't as effective against Primarina, but luckily Incineroar had been training with Prof. Kukui's Incineroar and had learned Cross chop
"Icy wind while you spin" Lana said. While she couldn't see Incineroar, her cold wind could buy her some time, and seeing so many of Ash's battles had inspired her to devise her strategy.
Primarina did as Lana ordered, and spinning on her spot, she began blasting icy wind in all directions. Incineroar who was inches away from hitting her attack failed to dodge the cloud of frost that was heading straight for him. Giving a grunt, he had to stop.
- There he is Primarina! Icy Wind straight to Incineroar!
- Oh no! - Ash said, apparently his strategy was not working as he had planned
The large amount of icy wind that began to cover the ring blew away the cloud of steam, revealing an Incineroar covered in a thin layer of ice.
- Very good Primarina! - Lana said - now ends it with Sparkling Aria!
- Of course not! Come on Incineroar, use super Flsmecharge!
Despite being frozen, Incineroar perfectly listened to Ash's orders, and in a quick reaction, Incineroar covered his entire body with great flames, but he did not run to attack Primarina, but continued to charge his internal fire, intensifying the flames that surrounded him
- Now! - Ash ordered, just as Primarina's big bubble was about to hit Incineroar.
Incineroar gave a great roar and began to run straight towards Primarina, hitting the bubble squarely in his path, but not stopping, as the water simply evaporated. This caught Primarina by surprise, who received the strong onslaught of the attack and landed on the ropes behind her.
- Cross Chop!
Primarina had hit the ropes, and she still hadn't gotten to her feet, but she wasn't giving up, and Lana knew she didn't have time to wait for her to get to her feet, Incineroar was getting closer, she could only try one attack.
- Ice Wind!
Primarina quickly launched the attack towards the Pokémon that was only a meter in front of her, but apparently the super charge that Incineroar had made, still kept its internal temperature very high, since despite receiving the attack, it did not produced the same effect as before, and did not slow down his run towards Primarina, managing to land a heavy blow, which knocked Primarina out.
"And the winners of this battle are Ash and Incineroar, who go on to the grand finals"
- Very good battle Incineroar, thanks - Ash said, returning his tired Pokémon to his Pokeball, then approaching Lana, he addedn- thanks for a great battle Lana
- I say the same Ash - answered Lana
"In our second battle of this round we have Marowak, Monferno, Decidueye and Incineroar
If the Masked Royale is the winner, we may have an Incineroars match in the grand finals! that would be very exciting" the commentator said enthused
"Despite the efforts of the contestants, the Masked Royale and his Incineroar are the ones who make it to the next round!
We did not expect less from them, they are the best exponents of this battling style for a reason
We will go to some commercials for a few minutes so that our participants can rest before the grand finale, We'll be back" said the commentator to the camera.
In the stadium, on the giant screen you could also see the different announcements of the television broadcast. The public took advantage of the break to go to the bathroom or for some food
- Lana and Kiawe were very close - said Mallow
- Yes... But Professor Kukui is really difficult to beat... it was a very difficult battle for Kiawe - Sophocles said
- Lana had Ash in trouble for a few minutes, but as usual Ash pulled a move up his sleeve at the last minute, - Misty said.
- I didn't know Flamecharge could be used that way - Goh said.
- Nobody knew - Misty said, - it's something that Ash just invented, and luckily for him, it worked as he expected
- Who do you think will win the final? - Sophocles asked.
- Honestly, I don't know - Misty said. She wanted Ash to win, as always, but she knew that Professor Kukui had much more experience in this type of battle.
- Do you think Ash will use Incineroar again? - Mallow asked.
- I hope so - said Sophocles.
- I don't know...he said he wouldn't repeat any of his Pokémon - Goh answered, remembering what Ash had told his Pokémon
- Who will he use then in the final? - Mallow asked.
- I thought he would let Incineroar fight against the Professor's Incineroar... They have been rivals since Incineroar was a Litten - Sophocles said
- More than rivals, Litten saw Incineroar as an example to follow - explained Mallow
- In that case I doubt Ash will use Incineroar in the final - said Misty
- Why?
-Because as Goh said, he said that he would not repeat his Pokémon... And if he is aware of the rivalry between the two Incineroar, he would have reserved it for the final... He must have some other strategy planned
"Alright, it's time for the final battle.
Since we are celebrating our Mánalo festival and we want all of you here present and the public at home to enjoy this battle to the fullest, we have included a change in the rules of this final battle... Both trainers will compete with two Pokémon!!
This way we will have four Pokémon competing at the same time, but only two trainers" explained the commenter
The public in the stadium was very excited about this new version that they could witness
"So, without further ado, here are our competitors
In one corner we have Ash Ketchum, the current champion of the Manalo conference" said the presenter, as Ash appeared and walked towards his corner
"In the other corner we have our champion of the Royale Dome, the Masked Royale!"
With this, Professor Kukui also approached the ring and settled in his corner.
"Please release your two Pokémon"
Ash threw two Pokeballs into the air, and Hawlucha and Bayleaf came out of them.
Kukui did the same, releasing Incineroar from and Empoleon from them. As soon as they were with him, they greeted the public with their traditional phrase
- Enjoy!
- Enjoy! - the audience responded excitedly
"Very well, now that everyone is in the ring, it's time to start"
As soon as the bell rang, Kukui was the first to react
- Incineroar, neck strike on Bayleaf - ordered Kukui, - Empoleon, Metal Claw on Hawlucha
Both Pokémon immediately began their run towards Ash's Pokémon, trying to land their attacks as quickly as possible.
- Hawlucha, dodge! Bayleaf, jump up and use Body Slam on Empoleon - ordered Ash
Bayleaf and Hawlucha did as Ash ordered. Hawlucha dodged Empoleon's metal claw, who kept trying again and again, managing to hit only once. Bayleaf for her part, waited until Incineroar was right in front of her to use her Vine whips to catapult herself and achieve a great jump, with which she passed over Incineroar, threw some leaf blades in his face, and then fell on Empoleon.
Empoleon received the full weight of Bayleaf, and tried to free himself from her by using metal claw on her.
- Use Leaf Blades!
Receiving the metal claw, Bayleaf jumped back a little, freeing Empoleon, but not before attacking him with leaf blades at very close range.
- Darkest Lariat on Bayleaf! - Kukui ordered Incineroar, trying to attack before she could defend herself
- Throw Hawlucha then dodge! Ash said.
Bayleaf with her whips launched Hawlucha into the air, right over the ring. He managed to do it just in time to dodge (with some difficulty) Incineroar's attack.
- Flying press! - Ash shouted to Hawlucha - Bayleaf use your whips to propel yourself and use Tackle
Hawlucha, who was already beginning to fall, opened his arms (which for a second caused his shadow to be projected imposingly in the ring), and then began to spin to increase the speed of his fall.
Bayleaf, for her part, was having trouble dodging Incineroar's attack, which luckily still hadn't managed to hit her at all, but had been very close to, which had generated some small burns on her body. Thanks to Ash's advice, Bayleaf decided to use one of the poles to her right, and with her whips she held on to it and pulled hard, and with this she was able to dodge Incineroar. Approaching the pole, she twisted her body around, so she could hit the pole with her hind legs, and propel herself into a Tackle
As Hawlucha plummeted to the ring, Bayleaf bounced off one of the poles and Incineroar spun around trying to hit Beyleaf, Empoleon got back on his feet
.- Hydro Pump in Hawlucha! - ordered Kukui, pointing with his finger at the Pokémon that was falling at full speed
But apparently Empoleon was still somewhat disoriented from the blow, because he took a second to react, and by the time he did, Hawlucha had already hit his target.
Hawlucha had done a little turn as he fell, causing him to switch targets at the last second. With this, Incineroar received a double attack, as just before receiving Hawlucha's Flying press he also received Bayleaf's big tackle
Upon receiving the double impact, Incineroar took a couple of steps back and fell to the ground, not yet defeated, but with enough damage on him
"That was a great strategy from Ash, who is resisting in a great way the attacks of the powerful Incineroar of the Masked Royale" said the commenter
- The duo that Ash chose is not bad at all - said Misty
- But there is no way that Bayleaf managed to resist Incineroar's fire attacks - said Kiawe, who along with Lana had joined the others in the public
- That's right, and it doesn't hurt Empoleon much either - Sophocles added.
- Hawlucha's fighting type moves could be effective against both... But I don't think it's enough - added Goh
- Well, in that case Empoleon's movements are not very effective against either of them - Lana said
- You're only taking into account the type advantages - Misty said - and as you already know for Ash that's not something really important
- It's true... - said Mallow
- Also, I think Ash chose a very good duo, they can complement each other well, and generate great combined moves
- Like Bayleaf lifting Hawlucha up in the air! - said Mallow excited
- Exactly - said Misty
- Well done guys - Ash said to his Pokémon
-Damn... I had forgotten how complicated it is to fight against Ash's creative strategies -Kukui said, who looked at his Pokémon thinking of some way to attack Ash - Empoleon whirlpool!
Kukui knew that his Pokémon needed a little time to recover and attack, and the whirlpool could give them a few seconds.
- Hawlucha get on Bayleaf! - Ash ordered, there was no time to dodge - Bayleaf hold on and resist!
Bayleaf using his Vine whips braced herself against the pole and the ropes around them, while Hawlucha climbed onto his back, both bracing for the impact of the water. But when the whirlpool came within inches of hitting them, Ash gave orders again.
- Now! Flying Karate chop! And Bayleaf prepare to take a big leap when I tell you
Hearing Ash Bayleaf quickly grabbed Hawlucha with his Vine whip and swung it with great force at Incineroar, who was getting to his feet and not really paying attention to his opponents. Hawlucha hit Incineroar in the chest with a strong Karate chop, sending him back to the mat.
Meanwhile Bayleaf received the whirlpool, but since she was prepared, she did not even move from its place
- Great! Now Bayleaf! Hawlucha High Jump Kick!
As soon as Ash gave the order, Hawlucha ran to the nearest pole so he could launch his attack as soon as necessary. Bayleaf with the help of her whips gave a great jump over Empoleon. While in the air Bayleaf used his whips to take Empoleon and taking advantage of the momentum she lifted him up and then threw him to the ground with great force. Just as Empoleon hit the ground, Hawlucha made the attack Ash ordered, hitting Empoleon square in the stomach.
"And with a great combined attack Empoleon has been knocked out.
Now the Masked Royale only has Incineroar on his side " said the commentator, very excited about the battle
- Good job Empoleon - Kukui said to his Pokémon as he returned it to his Pokeball - I should have assumed that Ash would have some combinations prepared - are you alright Incineroar?
- Roar
- Well, we better finish this...Malicious Moonsault! - Kukui said, preparing to perform his characteristic Z move
- Breakneck Blitz! - Ash ordered. As soon as he saw that Professor Kukui would do the Z move on him, Ash began to prepare his with Bayleaf.
- Now! - yelled both trainers at the same time
Incineroar and Bayleaf collided in the middle of the ring. The clash of both Z moves generated that both Pokémon backed up a few meters and fell to the ground
Incineroar looked exhausted, but was trying to get to his feet, while Bayleaf was unconscious.
"Bayleaf has fallen defeated.. and Incineroar is getting to his feet... That means..." said the commentator, who interrupted his speech upon hearing Ash
- Now! - Ash yelled.
At that moment Hawlucha fell on Incineroar, performing a perfect Flying press
"We forgot about Hawlucha! Just when we all thought that Incineroar had managed to beat Ash's two Pokémon, Hawlucha fell on him!
And with this great surprise attack Ash manages to defeat the Masked Royale" the commentator finished saying
- Well done Hawlucha! -Ash said to his Pokémon, while he jumped into the ring to go see Bayleaf - You were great Bayleaf, you deserve a break
- Great battle Ash - Kukui said, approaching Ash to shake his hand
- Thank you... I'm glad our strategy worked
At that moment the announcer approached Ash, with the microphone in his hand so that the entire stadium and the people at home could hear them.
"Congratulations on this great battle Ash" said the commentator, handing him a small trophy
- Thank you
"I think we'd all like to know how Hawlucha managed to dodge Incineroar's attack."
-Oh... While making the Z move Bayleaf threw Hawlucha up, just as she started running towards Incineroar...-Ash explained-so he wasn't in the ring when Incineroar made his move
"Extraordinary!
And with this ends our event for today. Thank you all for coming to share with us
Tomorrow we will have the last of the exhibition battles, this time against the Kahuna Olivia!" said the commentator
Everyone in the audience began to applaud enthusiastically, tomorrow's battle would be great
- Ehm.. can I say something? - Ash asked the announcer
"Of course..." He replied, handing the microphone to Ash
"Alola! Thank you all for coming today, and for having attended the previous battles... Also for having been participating in the different competitions that have been taking place in the different Islands
Tomorrow we close the first week of the Festival with the last exhibition battle... But remember that there is still a full week of surprises and activities to come! The Manalo Festival isn't over yet!" Ash said into the microphone.
Listening to Ash, the audience went crazy and began to applaud even louder.
"You already heard it, get ready because we still have a lot to enjoy in this Festival" concluded the commentator
Just a few minutes after reaching his dressing room, Ash heard a knock on the door.
- Go ahead
- Hello Ash - greeted Lana and Kiawe upon entering, while the others who came after them remained silent
Ash noticed the tense atmosphere, and knowing that he should apologize to the others, began to speak
- Hi guys... I hope you enjoyed today's battles - Ash said quickly, without giving them time to respond, he added - I'm sorry guys, I shouldn't have taken it out on you yesterday... Since we got here I've hardly had time to share with you, and it wasn't fair to treat you like this...
They all looked at each other before answering, after a few seconds Mallow said
- Okay Ash, we forgive you
- We understand that you have been working very hard these days - said Sophocles
- But be careful not to do it again - Kiawe said, who although he had forgiven him, wanted to make it clear that he had not liked Ash's attitude
- I won't, I promise - Ash replied
- Well, in that case let's go... My family is waiting for us with dinner - Kiawe said
- Brilliant! - said Ash, who was hungry - but I have to go to the Pokémon center first
- Sure, we should go too - said Kiawe
This way the first stop was at the Pokémon center, where Ash, Kiawe and Lana left their Pokémon so they could rest and recover during the night
The walk to Kiawe's home was lively, with everyone talking and commenting on today's battles. Everyone except Misty, the redhead had stayed at the back of the group and hadn't said anything the whole way. Ash noticed this, but decided to wait until they got to the farm to talk to her.
As soon as they arrived at the farm, they all headed to the house to say hello and have dinner.
- We'll be right there - Ash said to Kiawe, while he took Misty's hand to make her stop.
- Ok... Don't take too long.
Ash led Misty to a tree, where they both sat down on the grass to talk. Misty still hadn't said anything, she just looked at Ash
- Sorry Misty... I shouldn't have treated you like that last night... - Ash said sincerely, stroking Misty's hand - I shouldn't have gone and left you behind... I'm sorry
Misty still didn't say anything, she just stared at Ash and their intertwined hands
- And I'm sorry I didn't apologize first thing this morning... I... I preferred to do it in person and not over the phone - Ash explained, a little alarmed by Misty's lack of reaction.
- No, you shouldn't have done any of that - Misty finally said without raising her voice, but with a serious tone - you really hurt my feelings by doing it Ash
- Misty...- Ash started to say, but was interrupted by Misty, who raised her outstretched hand to stop him.
- I understand that you were tired last night, and I understand that it bothered you that we were late... I really understand... - said Misty - what I don't understand is why you didn't want me to go with you
- I... It's not that I didn't want your company... It's just that I thought I would be a bad company for you
- What are you talking about?
- I was in a bad mood... I probably would have started arguing for no reason... And I really didn't want that... - Ash tried to explain - I also went straight to bed as soon as I arrived... and today I had many things to do all morning...we couldn't have met until the ferry ride
Misty stared at him in silence for a few seconds without saying anything, and then added
- I think I understand your reasoning... But I still don't like it - said Misty - I could have been there to help you get over that bad mood... I could have helped you calm down and relax a bit
- Oh... I'm sorry... I didn't have that idea.
- Okay... We're both new to this dating thing... And little by little we should get used to the fact that we can count on each other at times like this.
- You're right, I don't know how I could forget... I'm sorry - Ash said, giving Misty a kiss on the cheek
- Regarding the apology on the phone... I want to make something very clear.
- What... What thing? - Ash asked, a little scared with the tone Misty was using.
- ALWAYS... always apologize right away... As soon as you realize your mistake - Misty said - even if it's with a text message...
- But...
- You apologize immediately... And later when we meet in person we can talk about it... - explained Misty - but if you don't do it and you let almost a whole day go by so you can do it in person... You leave me with the feeling that you don't want to apologize, and probably when I finally see you, I won't feel like listening to your apologies anymore
- Huh? ... No! It's not that... Misty you know I'm sorry... But I thought it would be better to do it in person... Believe me - Ash said alarmed, believing that Misty would not forgive him
- I believe you... But keep that in mind for the next time, ok?... I promise I'll do it that way too - Misty said, winking at him before giving him a passionate kiss
- Thank you Misty
- As I said,... we are new to this and we must learn... Even how to apologize haha
- What do you think about taking a walk around the farm after dinner?
- I'd love to
- Great... Come on, the others are waiting for us - Ash said, standing up and helping Misty to do the same
Upon entering the house they were greeted by Mimo, Kiawe's little sister
- Ash!! Your battles have been amazing!
- Thanks Mimo - answered Ash happily
- Come on guys, dinner is ready - said Sima, Kiawe's mother
Sitting at the table were all the others, including Kiawe's father
- Sorry for making you wait - Misty apologized, also sitting down at the table to start dinner
- What did you do this morning? - Ash asked.
- Not much - Kiawe said - Lana and I were training for the afternoon battles
- Which didn't help much - Lana said somewhat discouraged
- Don't say that! - Ash corrected her - we had a great battle, for a moment you put me in trouble.
- It is true, and Kiawe did not give up easily in front of Professor Kukui - added Sophocles
- And the tsg battle was very good too - said Mallow
- You just have to keep training to improve every day - Misty said with a smile
- Do you seriously believe it? Lana asked.
- Sure... You have the potential Lana
- Thank you Misty
- Do you train often Misty? - Goh asked.
- Of course I do... When I'm in the gym I train every afternoon after closing... Regardless of whether I've had battles that day or not... - replied Misty
- That's why it's one of the most difficult gyms in Kanto - added Ash
- Exactly - Misty said proudly - Also if I want to be a Water Pokémon Master, my Pokémon must be at their maximum level... And for that we must train... There is always room to improve, so it is important to always continue training
- Wow... And I thought Ash was strange for wanting to train every day, even after having a battle - said Goh
All the Alolan gang began to laugh, remembering their time with Ash, and how he trained with his Pokémon whenever he could.
- It's not rare for me to be like Misty in that way ... Many of the things I learned at the beginning of my journey were taught to me by Brock and Misty... and they, being gym leaders, always trained with their Pokémon as often as they could ... And they helped me train - Ash said, remembering those old days
- Luckily you've improved, because there's no way you would have won today's battles if you had used the "strategies" you used then - Misty said, laughing
- Hey!
- What are you talking about? - Sophocles asked, ignoring Ash's claims
- Oh... nothing... Imagine that Ash showed up to face Brock's gym, which is a rock type gym, with Pikachu and Pidgeotto...
- Misty!
- Really? - Goh asked, surprised.
- Of course... And that was one of his "best" strategies... There were other worse ones...- Misty said, laughing harder
Pikachu, who was on Ash's lap eating some ketchup, didn't know whether to laugh with Misty or hide because of the embarrassment of remembering those times.
- Misty! - Ash said, covering his face in embarrassment.
- And did you manage to win? - Kiawe asked incredulously.
Before Ash could respond, Misty began to recount what had happened.
- Not really... One of Pikachu's thundershocks caused the fire system to activate, raining down on Onix... Taking advantage of the fact that it was wet, Pikachu launched a thundershock that weakened Onix... But after that Ash left, because he thought it would be unfair to win that way... Brock, being the good person he is, gave Ash the badge anyway
- Is that... Allowed? Isn't it against the rules? - Mallow asked.
-No, not really... The gym leader can give the badge to the trainer they think it really deserves it, even if they have lost the battle.. but they rarely do it... Isn't that right Ash? - Misty asked, with a knowing smile, knowing that Ash would understand the hint.
- Yes, of course... well, that was a long time ago. After that, things changed and all my badges were won by my Pokémon fair and square - Ash said
- I didn't say the opposite - Misty defended herself
- So... what did the others do this morning? - Ash asked, changing the subject.
- We help them to train for a while - said Mallow
- And then we went to tour the city a bit and see some stands - said Goh
- Goh and I signed up for a contest tomorrow - said Sophocles
- Great.. Contest of what? - Ash asked.
- Pokémon trivia - Goh answered.
- Oh, that will be interesting to watch - Ash said, putting a large spoonful of food in his mouth
- The food is delicious - Misty said to Sima
- - I'm glad you like it
- Sorry about Ash's manners - added Misty, giving Ash a serious look - eat slower Ash!
- I'm hungry!
- But you are disturbing everyone at the table with your noises while eating!
- It is not true
- It is
- Is not
- Ehem... - said Rango, Kiawe's father, pretending to clear his throat
- Oh... I'm sorry - Misty said in alarm, realizing that she had again gotten into a ridiculous argument with Ash.
- Don't worry... - Rango said - Ash, tell me... Why didn't you use Incineroar in the final battle?
- Oh... Well it's simple... Incineroar evolved during the exhibition battle I had with Professor Kukui after winning the Conference last year... and since then it has been living with Professor Kukui... So I haven't been able to train much with him. In addition, Professor Kukui's Incineroar is very strong and is an expert in Royale battles, it would have been a clear disadvantage when fighting him - Ash explained
- Oh, I see - replied Rengo
- Also, since it was a double battle, I needed to have a duo that complemented each other well in battle... And for that Bayleaf and Hawlucha were better
- Definitely... The combinations you made were very effective - Rengo said
- Thanks... I wasn't sure if they would work against Incineroar, but I'm glad they worked
- After all you were right Misty - said Mallow
- Right for what? - Ash asked.
- At the end of the second round we wondered if you would use Incineroar in the final, and Misty said probably not... that you would surely have another strategy - Sophocles replied
- And then during the final battle, Misty said that surely you had chosen Hawlucha and Bayleaf, since they made a great team working together - explained Goh
- Oh... - Ash said, surprised that Misty knew him so well.
- At the end of the battle you said that there would be more activities during this week - said Sima - but none have been announced yet...
- Maybe they'll announce them tomorrow... - Ash said.- Mr. Goodshow is enjoying making everyone suffer with the surprises.
- Oh please Ash, just tell us something small - begged Mimo
Ash, knowing that he couldn't reveal much, but that it would be announced within the next few days anyway, decided to give his friends a little hint. After all he was the Champion, he could decide things like this, right?
- I can't say much, or Mr. Goodshow will be angry... But I can tell you that one of the activities will be at school.
- Really? - Lana asked.
- Yes... - said Ash - also during the week the new rules for this year's conference version will be announced
- !Really?! - Kiawe and Lana asked at the same time
- Yes... So you two should be very attentive to that announcement - answered Ash. Despite the fact that being the Champion he was supposed to be impartial with the different competitors, he could not help feeling a slight favoritism towards his friends, he really wanted that this year they would make it to the last rounds
- Brilliant! I'll start training as soon as the announcement is made - said Kiawe, very enthusiastic
- Me too! This year we will reach the final - said Lana, just as enthusiastic
- That's the spirit! - Ash said.
- Who wants ice cream for dessert? - asked Sima, seeing that everyone had already finished eating
- Me!!
After dessert, Ash and Misty went out for their walk. Hand in hand they began to tour the enormous farm grounds
- I am surprised that you have told them something about the activities of the week
- I know... But I didn't tell them much, it was just to calm their anxiety a bit... besides, next week's activities will surely be announced during the press conference - Ash said
- For a moment I thought you would tell them that the press conference is on Monday
- No.. if I do that Mr. Goodshow kills me - Ash said between laughs - also that will be announced tomorrow after the battle, it won't be long till they find out anyway
- You surprised me today with your speech at the end of the battles - Misty said - acting like a real Champion... Although nobody knows it yet
- Haha... The truth is that today I already started doing some of my duties and... Let's say I'm already in character haha
- You are already in "Champion Mode"
- I think so... I've been thinking about the conference on Monday all day, and everything I have to do after that... My to-do list is very long
- Try to relax a bit... You still have one day to relax before the chaos officially begins
- Not really... I asked Mr. Goodshow and Prof Kukui to meet with me tomorrow so we can plan Monday's conference
- Oh... your Champion Mode is definitely on haha - Misty said, stopping and staring at Ash - You don't know how proud I am of you... I'm sure you'll be a great Champion... Not only in battle, but you will also be a great leader and a great example for the people of Alola
- Thanks Misty... I hope so... - Ash said, giving Misty a passionate kiss - Over there there's a small hill that has an excellent view of the Volcano and the sea - Ash added, pointing to a small hill to his left
- Let's go
Arriving at the hill, they sat on the grass, to be able to observe the extensive sea, in which the Moon was reflected
- It's a beautiful sight - Misty said - Not only the sea... But the volcano is impressive... And the sky is full of stars.,. It's a beautiful night
- Yes... The nights in Alola are very beautiful - Ash said, hugging Misty when he noticed that she had shivered with the sea breeze - Are you cold? Do you want my jacket?
- For the moment I'm fine like this - Misty replied, snuggling in Ash's arms - maybe later I'll accept the jacket
- Okay...
- What did you have to do today in the morning?
- Several things... I trained, I reviewed the CV of the aspiring gym leaders, I prepared some things for the conference on Monday, I gave the letters to Frank and defined some details of a surprise that I am planning for the closing of the festival
- Oh... I guess you won't tell me what you're planning?
- Of course not, I also want to surprise you
-Okay, I won't ask any more details...- Misty said, snuggling a little more in Ash's arms, feeling the splint on his left hand, she added - How's your shoulder? And your wrist?
- My shoulder feels fine, as long as I don't raise my arm too much - Ash replied - And the wrist feels great. In fact, maybe I should ask Nurse Joy if I can stop wearing the splint now.
Ash and Misty had lain down on the grass, to be able to observe the stars in a better way. Misty still being hugged by Ash, since the wind was getting colder
They had been at this for about 15 minutes when Misty began to shiver from the cold.
- We'd better get back -;Ash said, standing up and taking off his jacket.
- Thank you - Misty said feeling the warmth of the jacket that Ash had just put on her shoulders - Are you sure you'll be okay?
- Yes, don't worry - Ash replied taking her hand and starting the way back to the house
They had only been walking for a few minutes when one of Ash's pokeballs opened on its own. Greninja had come out on its own
- Greninja? What's going on? - Ash asked alarmed, remembering that his Pokémon was capable of sensing the roots of evil... was there any danger approaching?
Greninja ignored Ash and began to look around very attentively, as if expecting an attack at any moment.
Ash, somewhat bewildered, decided that the best thing would be to concentrate and connect with Greninja in order to better understand what was happening.
Misty looked impressed as in the blink of an eye Greninja-Ash was in front of her
- Ash... What's going on?
- I don't know yet... Greninja feels something strange near here - answered Ash, closing his eyes to be able to concentrate better
Closing his eyes, Ash could feel a strange presence around him... But it wasn't something concrete, it wasn't "someone", but rather it felt like the entire area around them had residuals of a strange aura... It felt as if someone had been there, and their trail had been left behind, leaving that strange feeling in the air.
Puzzled, Ash and Greninja began to look around for clues.
- Ash... Answer me! - Misty said, alarmed with the strange attitude of Ash and Greninja
-Someone was here...-Ash said, while he turned on the flashlight of his cell phone and kept looking - or maybe some Pokémon...
- What are you talking Ash?
- Someone was here and left a strange trail in this place...
- I don't see any trace
- Me neither - Ash said, as he kept looking for clues - but I can feel it
- Feel it?
- Yes... it's a strange aura... I couldn't feel it at first, but Greninja did...
- Ash, I don't understand anything you're talking about.
- I'll explain more calmly later... Now please help us find any clue about who could have been here
- Ok... - replied Misty
"Surely this is another one of those moments of the chosen one" thought Misty
- Do you have any Pokémon with you? I only have Greninja... The others are at the Pokémon center and Pikachu stayed in the house
- Yes... Corsola and Gyarados
- Great, keep them in hand just in case we need them
- Okay
- Ninja!
- Did you find something? - Ash asked, running towards Greninja
Greninja was kneeling in front of some bushes, trying to get something out from behind them.
- What's this? - Ash asked him, taking a sheet of paper that Greninja was showing him.
The sheet of paper had various things written on it, but due to humidity some parts were not very clear
- What does it say? - Misty asked, approaching Ash to read the paper.
-It says .. "Experiment three" ... And then further down it says "Ultra Beast Sighting" ... And then there is a data chart where different data is noted ... Date, time, place and Ultra Beast ...
- Has someone been monitoring the appearances of Ultra Beasts?
- It seems that way... and it keeps a very detailed record... Too bad some parts are blurred
- But why does it say experiment three?
- I don't know... But I don't like it... - Ash said, looking more closely at the sheet - There's a logo... Or something like that
- You recognize it?
- No.. it will be better to go back and ask the guys if something strange has happened with the Ultra Beasts lately
Ash put the sheet of paper in the pocket of his jacket (which Misty still had), and looked at Greninja.
- Do you want to return to your Pokeball or do you prefer to stay outside?
Apparently Greninja was still somewhat uneasy, because he did not want to return to his Pokeball, although he did return to his original form
This way Ash and Misty returned to the house, walking hand in hand with Greninja acting as their bodyguard.
Upon entering the house again they found that everyone was sharing in the living room, they were playing some kind of board game
- Hi guys, how was the walk? - Mallow asked.
- Very good... It's a beautiful night - said Misty, sitting next to Lana
- Is it too cold outside? - asked Sima, seeing that Misty was wearing Ash's jacket
- Not so much... but apparently I'm not wearing enough clothes - replied Misty, who was still a little cold and didn't want to return Ash's jacket just yet.
Seeing that everyone was enjoying themselves and having a good time together, Ash decided not to tell them about what he had found with Greninja, at least not for now. That could wait a few days until the announcement was made and he could officially meet with the Ultra Guardians.
Ash then decided to sit next to Sophocles and join in the fun of games' s night
.
Sorry for the delay, but imagining and writing the battles was not easy... that's why I only wrote Ash's battles
I hope you like this chapter