Author's Note:
Here it is, one chapter I have been looking forward to since I started this project. It focuses around Sandslash. While he might start listening to Ash, that won't fully change his personality. He will continue to be tough and un-trusting with an aggressive fighting style. Also, his backstory is linked to a one-time character from the anime who always bothered me. I will say, we also get to see another competitor in the Orange League. I plan for the group to run into all five before the league itself (with Tierno and Trevor being last chapter). Anyway, remember to vote in the latest poll. It is up until Ash catches his next Pokemon (which is his cannon catch) and with that, let's begin...
Chapter 8: Sandslash Splashes Out
The group is currently on Lapras' back as they are sailing towards Navel Island and Ash's next gym battle. Serena wasn't happy when she found out Ash received a second scar from his ground type and even asked if he would send Sandslash back to the lab for a bit. Ash refused, as Serena guessed he would, since he wants to help Sandslash out. He may not know what the ground type went through before he caught him, but he can feel a great amount of pain coming from him, and Ash wouldn't be able to look at himself if he didn't even try to help him. He is Sandslash's trainer after all.
Ash took the ground type's Pokeball off his belt and looked at it with a frown. Even with Sandslash in the Pokeball, he can still feel the pain and sadness, and all it is doing is motivating him to find some way to help him. Hmm, while spending time with them is one way to create a close bond with his Pokemon, battling with them is also useful. If he can show Sandslash that he wants to work with him maybe Sandslash will return the gesture. It has to be better than nothing.
"Cheer up, Ash." Serena told her boyfriend when she saw him looking at a Pokeball. It didn't take a genius to figure out that it was Sandslash's. Despite everything, Ash is still determined to help the ground type, while it is one thing Serena loves about him, she would hate for him to get hurt any more than he already has.
"Sorry Serena." Ash apologised as he clipped Sandslash's Pokeball back to his belt. He doesn't know when he will get to have a proper battle, they are just trying to cover as much water to Navel before sundown. There are several islands near their current location but not the civilised ones. Which means they will be camping out no matter what, just depends on which one.
If Lapras gets tired after the hard training session yesterday than he might be able to battle one of his travelling companions. Speaking off, for her first training session Lapras did incredibly well. With Dragonair's help, she mastered Ice Beam, although not as big or as powerful as the dragon type's, it is still really impressive considering her young age. While he isn't sure about which gym he will use her in, Ash has promised her that she will get that chance which has only motivated her more. While Lapras is still desperate to find her family, she can't help but think that this whole experience will be a positive one and a turning point in her maturity.
"You don't need to apologise Ash, your only worried about Sandslash." Serena reassure with a loose hug from the side. She made sure not to hit Ash's scar which despite closing up over the night, is still sore. "I just don't want to see yourself get hurt whilst helping Sandslash.".
"I think it's a little late for that, Serena." Drake interjected at an attempt with some dry humour. He sweat dropped when he saw the honey blonde girl narrow her eyes at him. First Leaf and now Misty, its official, the opposite gender is the one thing that can scare Drake without argument. "I'll just be over here with Cubone.".
"You do that." Misty told Drake in a snarky tone. She is currently bonding with her Poliwag, and is purposely trying to distract herself as she wants to give the couple some privacy. That is harder done when stuck on Lapras' back however.
Serena looked back to her boyfriend once his brother was no longer looking, she is trying to be serious with Ash as it concerns his safety after what Sandslash did yesterday, and Drake decided to crack a joke. Or try to, at least. She gets mad when she sees Ash smiling at his brothers joke.
"Seriously Ash, I don't want you to get hurt." Serena told her boyfriend angrily. The smile on Ash's face faded quickly when he realised Serena was getting angry, while he hasn't experienced it himself, Brock use to tell him horror stories of what happens when a guy's girlfriend gets angry, needless to say he hopes to never experience it. No matter how unlikely that is.
"Sorry Serena, I promise I'll be more careful." Ash reassured in his most convincing voice possible. "I just want to help Sandslash.".
"I know you do Ash." Serena replied sympathetically. "I'm just worried that you'll hurt yourself if you're not careful.".
"Actually, it's more likely that Sandslash will hurt him before Ash hurts himself." Pikachu pipped up, earning a small chuckle from Ash. Serena glared down at the electric type, she might not know what he said but something tells her that it isn't helping her cause.
"I won't translate that." Ash sweat dropped as he slightly moved Pikachu away from his not-so-happy girlfriend. Lucky, both Ash and Pikachu were saved by Lapras who let out a call to Ash. "What's up, Lapras?".
"A boat is coming towards us." Lapras informed with slight panick in her voice. While she can't know who or what is on that boat, it is bringing back bad memories of that boat which started chasing her group and lead to her getting separated from her family. Ash sensed her uneasiness and rubbed her head.
"Calm down Lapras, they probably don't even know were here." Ash reassured as he rubbed her head. Lapras cooed under his touch. "Let's just move to the side and let them pass. Everything will be fine.".
Lapras nodded and she scooted to the side, leaving a wide area for the boat to pass through. She was still scared and Ash could sense this. He turned and kept her company through the whole event. Lapras felt like such a wimp. They are travelling through water which has many populated islands, of course they would encounter a boat at some point. After feeling like she was growing up with yesterday's training session, she is still the same scared little girl from that night.
As the boat closed in, Lapras started crying and buried her head in Ash's chest. Ash didn't mind comforting the transport Pokemon as she has clearly been through a traumatic experience, and at a very young age as well. To Lapras' horror, the boat seemed to slow down as it closed in and it even moved towards the group and stopped next to them. At this point, Lapras refused to move out of her current position with her eyes closed and head buried in Ash's chest.
The boat is pure white and isn't actually that big. The group was confused as to why the boat would approach them like this, but their questions were answered when the driver left the cabin and was revealed to be Virgil with his Eevee.
"Hey guys, what are you doing out here?" Virgil asked as he walked to the side of the boat. He frowned when he saw the clearly young transport Pokemon. "Is your Lapras alright?".
"Um, I can explained." Ash sweat dropped. "But would you mind if we come aboard, I think Lapras will feel better in her Pokeball.".
"Sure, be my guest." Virgil smiled. He helped the four trainers board his boat and Ash quickly returned his transport Pokemon with a word of thanks. Once he clipped the Pokeball to his belt, Virgil got down to business. "So, what's up with your Lapras.".
"She was separated from her family, and we're trying to help her find them whilst travelling around the Orange Islands." Ash explained. "All we know is, she got separated from them because a ship attack so she has a fear of ships in general.".
"Oh, I'm sorry. I wish I could help but I don't know where to find a school of Lapras around here." Virgil replied. "And I didn't mean to scare her, I can't imagine how scary something like that would be to go through, especially at such a young age.".
"Yeah, I just hope we can reunite her with her parents." Ash replied sadly. He truly has bonded with his transport Pokemon, but the best place for her is with her parents. "So, Virgil, not to sound rude but why did you stop by us?".
"Oh, I slowed the boat down when I saw Lapras as to not startle her." Virgil replied with a sweat drop. In hindsight, he probably startled her more by slowing down, he didn't mean to scare her and slowing down is the typical curious thing to do to Pokemon on the water. "But when I saw it was you guys, I wanted to speak with ya.".
"How come?" Drake asked.
"I want to challenge Ash to a battle." Virgil answered with a confident smirk. "I've already battled both Harrison and Alvin who are competing and I want to battle all competitors in the Orange League before it begins.".
"Are the competitors allowed to do something like that?" Serena asked with curiosity.
"There aren't any rules against it." Virgil explained. "And because it is a knock out tournament, there is a chance any two trainers won't be battling at all.".
"Sounds good to me!" Ash smiled. He has been wanted to get in a battle, and this is the perfect chance. While using Sandslash might not listen, Ash has to try and give him a chance. Maybe if Ash shows Sandslash that he trusts him than Sandslash will start to open up.
"Great, there is a vacant island near here where we can battle." Virgil informed.
He went back into the cabin and started the boat back up. It didn't take long, maybe five minutes for the group to reach the island. Once they docked at the vacant island they climbed onto the beach.
"This island is really pretty." Serena commented as she looked around at the tropical paradise.
"All of the Orange Archipelago is." Virgil smiled before turning his attention to Ash. "So, Ash, how does a two on two battle sound?".
"Sounds good." Ash replied as he looked at Serena. "Hey Serena, do you mind watching Togepi while we battle?".
"Of course." Serena smiled as Ash handed the young fairy type to her. Serena stole a peck on Ash's check before he could move and face Virgil. "Good luck.".
"Dada?" Togepi questioned as he looked at his daddies red face. It is actually quite funny to see, but why did he turn red and why did Serena give his daddy a kiss, his daddy isn't going to bed is he? The others decided not to comment to save the poor boy from any further embarrassment.
"Since I challenged you, Ash, I'll show my Pokemon first." Virgil smirked as he gripped his Pokeball. "You're up, Vaporeon!". The water type eeveelution appeared on the sand and let out an elegant cry like a sea siren. Ash didn't need to scan the eeveelution since Misty has one, even though she is currently at the Gym.
To Ash's surprise before he could even think about who he should use, Pikachu jumped in front of him and sparked his cheeks in an offensive manner. Ash knows his starter well enough to know that he wants to battle. While he wants to give Sandslash a battle, it is three aside so this wouldn't be two bad.
"Okay buddy, I choose you." Ash replied and let his starter take the first battle. One of Serena's Pokeballs started shaking and her Eevee let herself out. She barked some encouragement to her boyfriend. Pikachu smirked as he faced Vaporeon, no way will he lose with his girlfriend here.
Ash VS Virgil:
"Okay Pikachu, let's start with Quick Attack." Ash instructed.
Both Ash and Pikachu like to start off with a barrage of speed attacks to throw there opponents of course. Unfortunately, Virgil isn't just a run of the mill trainer, he is another competitor in the Orange League. Kicking off from his starting position, Pikachu made a b-line for the water type eeveelution.
"Protect." Virgil countered.
Vaporeon entered a defensive stance, and a protective barrier surrounded the water type eeveelution. Pikachu was moving so fast that neither he or Ash had a chance to change tactics. Pikachu hit the barrier and bounced back. Landing in roughly the same position that he started in.
"Let's see them block this, Thunder bolt." Ash replied without missing a beat.
Pikachu smirked and jumped into the air, unleashing a massive electrical bolt out of his cheeks (although it covered his whole body). Both Ash and Virgil know that Protect will fail if used constantly, although Virgil has planned for situations like this. He is a ranger after all.
"Iron Tail on the sand." Virgil instructed.
Vaporeon jumped into the air as his tail became coated in metal. Doing a forward roll in the air, Vaporeon slammed his hardened tail into the ground and it caused a load of sand into the air. The Thunderbolt struck the sand, but couldn't pass through it. As the sand fell, the Thunderbolt came to an end.
"Muddy Water!" Virgil instructed.
Vaporeon let out a battle cry as a load of dirty water shot out of his body. The wave was shooting out in all directions but to the rest of the groups relief, they used a ledge at the point where the beach ends and the land begins, meaning they can't get affected by the move.
"Dodge it with Quick Attack." Ash instructed.
Pikachu shot off to the side to avoid the head on wave seeing as it was travelling towards Ash with more force. Going around the attack, Pikachu started to charge at the water type eeveelution as Ash had his feet covered by the Muddy Water.
While it didn't really hurt Ash because it lost most of its force by the time it reached him, but it was very cold. Pikachu started to run towards Vaporeon, but came to a stop when he touched the sand which was hit by the Muddy Water because of the effect it had on the sand. Making it all sludgy and hard to move fast on.
"I know Pikachu rely's on speed in a lot of battles, Ash. That's why I had Vaporeon change the field to make it that much harder." Virgil explained.
"Well my Pikachu is more than just speed." Ash smirked confidently. "And you've limited Vaporeon as well.".
"Is that a fact?" Virgil asked with a confident smirk. "Use your own Quick Attack.".
Vaporeon shot across the sludgy ground with very impressive speed. Easily transcending the terrain by jumping over most of it. Ash, and everyone else were shocked to see the water type eeveelution not struggle with sludgy sand at all. Virgil decided he should explain it to them.
"I'm a ranger, remember. Vaporeon has helped me rescue Pokemon from active landslides, this terrain is nothing compared to that." Virgil explained.
As Virgil finished speaking, he struck Pikachu head on and sent the electric mouse flying. Pikachu landed face first in the sludgy sand, he was quick to pick himself up but some of the sand remained in his eyes, making hard to see. Ash knew he had to do something because Virgil has been running this battle so far, but since Pikachu has hindered sight he needs a move that doesn't use that scent... That's it.
"Quick Attack, again, Vaporeon." Virgil instructed.
The water type eeveelution started jumping around the terrain again as Pikachu stood helplessly with his eyes closed. However, Virgil was sure not to get to confident since he knows Ash is a capable trainer. Anyone competing in the Orange League is after all.
"Grass Knot!" Ash shouted.
Due to Pikachu not needing sight to use this move, it is perfect. Pikachu focused with his eyes closed and two blades of grass sprouted out of the ground, the two blades tied together and Vaporeon's foot got caught. Cancelling the Quick Attack, Vaporeon slide into the sludgy sand.
"Quick Pikachu, launch a Thunderbolt forward." Ash instructed.
Despite not being able to see himself, Pikachu trusts Ash. The electric mouse Pokemon unleashed a powerful electric shock out of his cheeks and it went flying towards the downed Vaporeon.
"Iron Tail the ground." Virgil countered.
Vaporeon struggled to his feet as his tail became coated in metal, with one swift thrust downwards, Vaporeon planted his tail in the sand. As the Thunderbolt closed in, the metal on Vaporeon's tail drew it on and it curved around the water type eeveelution. Hitting the tail, the electricity moved through it and was expelled into the ground. By planting his tail in the ground, Vaporeon was grounded meaning he didn't even feel the effects of the Thunderbolt.
"Water Pulse!" Virgil shouted.
Vaporeon's tail returned to normal as it left the ground. Vaporeon let out a battle cry as a sphere of water formed in front of Vaporeon's mouth. The water type eeveelution shot the Water Pulse towards Pikachu. Ash smirked as he saw his chance, although it is a risk.
"Listen Pikachu, I need you to brace yourself as I want you to take the Water Pulse head on." Ash told his starter.
Pikachu nodded and tensed up, while not crazy about taking a hit without even attempting to dodge, Pikachu trusts his trainer and has an idea of what he is going for, this will definitely solve their main issue at the minute. The Water Pulse flew across the ground and struck Pikachu directly in the face, with the water washing the sand out of Pikachu's eyes. Once the attack was over, Pikachu could see clearly again, although both Pokemon are getting tired.
"Aqua Ring." Virgil called out.
Vaporeon let out an elegant cry as his entire body was surrounded around water. Vaporeon's body glew white as some of his health was restore. As the light and water faded, Vaporeon looked in a much better position, not full health but certainly better than Pikachu.
"Oh, come on!" Pikachu cried out in anger. He hates Pokemon who use self-healing moves, it is an unfair advantage in a battle.
"Well Pikachu, might as well test out your new move." Ash told his starter trying not to get discouraged by the turn of events. "Use Electro Ball!".
Pikachu growled and crouched down, raising his tail in the air. Concentrating as hard as he could, a yellow ball of electricity formed at the end of his tail. It was growing in size but at a slower rate than Vaporeon's Water Pulse.
"Counter with Shadow Ball!" Virgil shouted.
Vaporeon let out another battle cry as a purple and black ball formed in front of his mouth. It grew much quicker than Pikachu's Electro Ball (down to Pikachu still getting use to using this move) and both Pokemon launched their respective attacks.
The two attacks seemed to be going for a head on collision but Vaporeon's Shadow Ball is much bigger. As the two closed in, the wind surround the Shadow Ball threw the Electro Ball of course due to it being the weaker attack. The Electro Ball hit the ground and imploded no-where near Vaporeon as the Shadow Ball closed in on Pikachu.
"Stop it with Iron Tail!" Ash shouted.
Pikachu quickly coated his tail in metal and did a small jump into the air. Swinging his tail at the incoming ghost type move, it sliced through the Shadow Ball and cut it in two. The two halves hit the ground separately and were harmless. Virgil smirked inwardly as he saw his next attack plan.
"Shadow Ball." Virgil instructed.
Ash had a perplexed looked, why would Virgil use the same attack twice in a row when he saw Pikachu easily counter it? Well, he can't think about it too much because the Shadow Ball is closing in on Pikachu.
"Iron Tail, again." Ash countered.
Like before, Pikachu coated his tail in metal as he jumped into the air. Spinning around, he sliced the Shadow Ball in two. Unfortunately, that was exactly what Virgil wanted. Vaporeon also smirked as he knows what's next.
"Scald on the Iron Tail." Virgil instructed.
Vaporeon took an offensive stance before firing a blast of boiling hot water out of his mouth. The boiling hot water struck Pikachu's tail with great accuracy, since he has been trained to use water attack to put out fires he didn't have any sort of trouble hitting his target. With the metal still coating his tail, it made Pikachu more conductive to the heat. It soon became too much and Pikachu fell back with swirls in his eyes. Once he was down, Vaporeon stopped his attack.
Ash ran out and picked Pikachu up from the sludgy sand. He whispered some words of thanks and took him over to the group. Serena held him while Drake got out some medicine to heal him while Eevee sat beside him. Ash returned and looked at Virgil and Vaporeon with a flame of determination behind his eye.
"That was a good battle Ash, if it wasn't for Aqua Ring Pikachu could've won." Virgil told his opponent. "But I've been training Vaporeon to handle electric types because I didn't want her to be down if I need to use her against Drake.".
"Sorry Virgil, but only one of us will be facing Drake, and that is going to be me." Ash replied confidently. He moved his hand towards his remaining Pokeballs. He has to be careful of the sludgy sand which rules out Tauros, and Lapras is still too young for a proper battle. Both Dragonair and Charizard can fly so the field doesn't really affect them but Ash had already decided on who he would use. "I choose you, Sandslash!".
To say the group was shocked would be an understatement. They know Ash wants to get Sandslash to open up but so far Sandslash hasn't listen to Ash in any battle, it was because of Sandslash that Ash received his penalty back in the Indigo League. Surely Dragonair or Charizard would be better.
The ground type appeared out of his Pokeball and growled as he looked around. The sand that he landed on isn't like normal sand, it is almost like some sort of marsh land. That doesn't matter because he spotted Vaporeon who was just healed by the Aqua Ring again. The water type eeveelution entered a battle stance and Sandslash growled threateningly, it wanted to battle, did it?
Virgil was intrigued by Ash's choice of Pokemon, he would willingly put himself at a disadvantage? Well, Virgil did the same so maybe Ash is trying to prove something, but the most intriguing part is Sandslash's behaviour. Sandslash are pretty tame Pokemon by all accounts, only acting aggressive when protecting their young, yet this one is really mad. Virgil can tell this will be a tough opponent despite the type advantage.
Without warning, Sandslash jumped into the air and landed on the sand with a heavy thump. It used Earthquake and the ground was shaking violently. Both Ash and Virgil had a hard time keeping their balance while Vaporeon had it worse. Even the ground was being thrown around due to the power of the attack. Virgil was surprised by the sudden attack since Ash didn't say anything but he had to act as Sandslash started running at Vaporeon with an X-Scissor.
"Hide in the water, Vaporeon." Virgil instructed.
Vaporeon pushed himself up and quickly retreated to the ocean where his body camouflaged into his environment. This isn't a move but a natural characteristic of Vaporeon as a defensive tactic when in the wild.
"Calm down, Sandslash. Maybe you can sense Vaporeon if you focus." Ash suggested.
Sandslash roared angrily at his trainer before turning back to the water. In his anger, he fired several poisonous stingers into the water. He used Poison Sting. Virgil was surprised by the ground types actions and knew this would be like facing a wild Pokemon rather than a trainer. He knew Aqua Ring would be activating again and that would give away his Vaporeon's location.
"Use Iron Tail to block the Poison Sting and get behind Sandslash." Virgil instructed.
Just like he predicted, the Aqua Ring reappeared and restored some of Vaporeon's health. This gave away the water types location and Sandslash wasted no time in redirecting his Poison Sting. Vaporeon coated his tail in metal and used it to intercept the poison type move. Sandslash stopped the attack when he saw it wasn't working and Vaporeon jumped Out of the water and landed behind Sandslash.
The ground type growled, this thing is only a coward, so far, all its done is hide and go on the defence, not to mention it is actually listening to one of those humans, how despicable. Extending his claws, Sandslash started to run at the water type eeveelution to use Crush Claw.
"Stop it, Sandslash!" Ash shouted but his voice fell on deaf ears.
"Ice Beam!" Virgil shouted.
Sandslash jumped to attack from above and stop Vaporeon from escaping again. Vaporeon opened his mouth and shot a beam of ice out of his mouth. The special attack hit Sandslash head on, and the ice started to cover his body. The attack also blew Sandslash away. Unfortunately, Sandslash went flying towards the water.
"No Sandslash!" Ash shouted as he saw the froze ground type land in the water. Without a second thought, he took off towards the water. He could hear his friends calling out but paid them no mind, he has to help Sandslash.
Jumping into the water, Ash swam at his hardest towards his ground type, but to his horror, the still frozen Sandslash started to sink. Ash wasted no time and dived after him. Although hard, Ash eventually reached the ground type. Ash tried his hardest to lift it back to the surface but to his dismay, the ice block which is Sandslash was too heavy.
Wrapping an arm around it, Ash went to reach for one of his Pokeballs but a strong current hit the duo. The raven-haired boy was push backwards along with his frozen ground type. The impact caused Ash to let go of the breath he was holding but he refused to let go of Sandslash. The outside world started to go black as Ash desperately reached for his belt. He doesn't care right now, either Dragonair or Lapras would work, he just needs one of them. As he lost consciousness he saw the light appear to show one of his Pokemon was released.
A bright(ish) light hit his eyes as they flickered open. It took a moment before his eyes adjusted to his current environment. Sandslash! In a panick, Ash quickly sat up but due to the fast movement, he started coughing.
"Ash! Are you alright?" A familiar voice asked. The voice belonged to Lapras, who nuzzled Ash's stomach. She was so scared when she had been called out and found Ash sinking in the water with that block of ice, not moving.
"I'm good, Lapras." Ash replied weakly as he took in his surrounds. They are in a cave with the only way in and out being over the water. Lapras is close to the edge and it seems like he was lay down near the edge. Ash realised Lapras must've saved him and left him there. "Thank you.".
"It's okay." Lapras replied before licking his cheek. She is so happy he is safe. Despite letting the others ride on her back and getting on alright with Pikachu, Lapras has only bonded with Ash and she doesn't know what she would do if something happened. At least she was able to help him.
Ash smiled as he stood up with a word of thanks to his transport Pokemon. He truly is grateful for what she did. Looking at the mouth of the cave shows that it is sunset and rain clouds are setting in. While not idea, they will need to stay here for the night. A quick check on his Pokegear showed that he doesn't have a strong signal. He wrote out a message to Serena, letting her know he is alright but stuck in a cave for the night. Hopefully he can get a bit of signal so the message sends (he is lucky the new bag his mum got him is completely water proof, so he doesn't have to worry about that).
"Sandslash!" Ash shouted as his mind went straight towards his ground type. He ended up here because he wanted to save the ground type, hopefully Lapras was able to help him too, otherwise he doesn't know what he could do to even try and find him... Would he even be able to find him?
"Over here, Ash." Lapras told her trainer.
Ash turned to see the Transport Pokemon pointing her head towards a dark corner. Ash slowly moved towards the direction and found the ground type lying on the floor. He was no-longer in a block of ice but was cold, wet and unconscious. Ash held his breath as he felt for a pulse. To his delight, he found one, although it was faint. Sandslash clearly won't survive the night if left in this condition. That was when Ash got an idea.
"I need your help, Charizard." Ash called out his fire flying type. Upon appearing in the cave, Charizard let out a massive battle roar. When he realised the situation they are in, he sweat dropped and scratched his cheek in embarrassment. "Charizard, can you lend me your fire? Sandslash needs heating up.".
Charizard nodded in understanding and moved his tail flame towards the ground type. He has never liked the ground type, especially after how he attacked Ash yesterday but the memory of being on his own death bed is all too clear in his mind. He increased the size and temperature of the fire and it was workings as slowly the colour started to return to Sandslash.
The ground type may have been getting heat from Charizard's tail but he was still shivering from the water that covered his body. Ash realised that if he left the flame to dry Sandslash than it would probably take all night. Not to mention it could leave Sandslash with pneumonia or hypothermia or something else. Opening his bag, Ash pulled out his towel. Unfortunately, he only has the one on him and while he needs to dry off himself, Sandslash is more important.
Ash approached the ground type and wrapped him in the blanket. Ash realised that because he was so close to the water that he was on wet ground, he can't blame Lapras because she did everything she could. Ash picked the ground type up and cradled him like a baby, he carried him further into the cave and lay him on dry ground, with Charizard making sure he kept his tail flame near both of them. As luck would have it, Charizard's flame also seemed to light up the entire cave. While the sun is still out now, it will soon go down and it is supposed to rain to, no doubt the light will help when that starts.
With Sandslash in a more stable condition, Ash stood up and took his jacket off. Since all his current clothes are soaking wet, he took his pyjama's out of his bag and quickly changed into them. Both his conscious Pokemon looked away to give him some privacy. Once he was changed his stomach growled.
"Man am I hungry... I bet the others are as well." Ash groaned. He picked up his Ultra Ball and Safari Ball, pressing the buttons he released his Tauros and Dragonair who appeared next to Charizard. "Sorry its kind've late guys, but I am guessing you're hungry.".
"Yes, but what are we doing in a cave Ash?" Dragonair asked.
"And where are the others?" Tauros asked.
"Let me get you your food guys, then I will explain what happened." Ash told his Pokemon. He knows his friends will take care of Pikachu but this is the first night that he won't be with Pikachu since starting his journey.
Ash moved to his bag and pulled out five bowls along with the pre-made Pokemon food. He is lucky Brock taught Serena all his recipes for Pokemon food otherwise he doesn't know what he would do in this situation. He poured out the different types of food into the bowls and placed them in front of the respective Pokemon.
Even though Sandslash is currently unconscious, he poured the ground type some food for when he wakes up. Once all of the Pokemon started eating, Ash searched in his bag for what he could have. All he found were a couple of pieces of fruit and a chocolate bar. He sat down and started to eat as he explained what happened.
Needless to say, Charizard, Tauros and Dragonair weren't happy about what they heard. Yesterday, the ground type attacked Ash and left a nasty scar on his chest and today because he refused to listen to Ash in battle. None of them would even think about doing that, and yet the ground type does it constantly, he almost ruined all of their demanding work at the Indigo League by doing the same thing, which resulted in Ash receiving a penalty.
Lapras was also disgusted at what the ground type did, even more so because she was the one to rescue both of them and spent hours worrying before Ash woke up, but she is still new to the group and is too timid to add her own views into the discussion. While she doesn't know much about what Sandslash has done in the past, she can say that she doesn't like the ground type much at all.
When Ash finished his food, he inspected his ground type and frowned when he noticed him shivering. It seems like the towel was doing next to nothing right now, he kneeled down beside the ground type and started to rub the ground type to both help dry him and warm him up.
Little did Ash or the other Pokemon know Sandslash regained consciousness. He took in his surrounds and realised what happened. He can't move due to the pain over his body, and decided to try to get some sleep. Than he heard them speak.
"Ash, I believe I speak for all members of our group when I say, it is time to let Sandslash go." Dragonair spoke up. Being the princess and ruler of the group, it falls to her to be the voice of reason after all. Ash looked at his dragon type with a combination of shock and sadness. "When will he cross a line, you deem too far?".
"She's right Ash." Tauros added. "He hasn't even made an attempt to speak with any of us. I know I really only spend time with Aerodactyl and Primeape but I'd like to think if any of the others need help than all they need to do is ask. While the only thing they would get from Sandslash is the threat of being attacked.".
"Not to mention what he's done to you, Ash." Charizard continued with his own thoughts. "Yesterday, he left a second scar on you. And today you almost died because he refused to listen to reason. How much further will he push you until you break?".
Ash looked at his four Pokemon and realised they are only scared about his safety above all else. He can understand their feeling and if Drake or Serena were in his position, he would likely be telling them the same thing... But he wouldn't be able to live with himself if he lets Sandslash go.
"No!" Ash shouted and stood between the four Pokemon and Sandslash. Ash could tell just by looking at her, that Lapras also feels like these three, she just doesn't have the confidence to voice her opinions. "... Sorry guys, but I won't let Sandslash go... I don't know how to explain it, it could be my aura, but I can feel the pain that is inside Sandslash and I can't let him go whilst he has this pain...".
The Pokemon looked at their trainer with hard stares. They can tell by looking at him that Ash has already made his mind up. Ash has already helped all of them out, saving both Tauros and Dragonair from Team Rocket when the criminals attacked the Safari Zone, saving Charizard from his previous trainer and bringing both said trainer to justice and currently helping Lapras search for her family while also helping her get stronger. They all admire their trainer's kind heart. Although they don't agree with his decision, they have enough respect to help him in said decision regardless of the outcome.
They all soften their stares and Ash went back to drying the ground type. Once they had finished eating, the Pokemon found their own spots and lay down to sleep, while Ash did offer them the Pokeballs where they would be warmer, they denied, which Ash was thankful for since Charizard's flame is doing more good for Sandslash than he is at the minute.
Soon Tauros, Dragonair and Lapras were asleep with Charizard about to join them. He was lying the closest to Ash and Sandslash and saw that Ash's hands were turning red from rubbing Sandslash dry. In truth, Sandslash's skin was similar to sand paper by the texture and the towel wasn't protecting his hands at all.
"You don't need to do that, Ash. My tail flame will keep him stable. You should get some sleep as well." Charizard told his trainer. He can remember the first night that he met Ash, and how Ash stayed by his bedside all night. He truly is a great trainer, and in all honesty, he is too good for Sandslash.
"Thanks, but no thanks, Charizard." Ash told the fire flying type. "I wouldn't be able to rest until I know Sandslash is okay anyway.".
Charizard sighed as he lay down and closed his eyes. He can't help but think that this is what Ash was like back when they first met. As the Flame Pokemon also entered a sleep as Ash continued to work on Sandslash. A crack of thunder warned Ash about the thunder storm that started.
"Just hold on Sandslash... We'll have you as good as new in no time." Ash told the ground type as he continued to work.
The group have too refugee in Virgil's boat. Despite it being relatively small, there was a second level meaning more than enough room for all of them to sleep. There is only one bed, so it is just like camping out but they can't complain since it is nice of Virgil to let them stay here.
Serena is sat in her sleeping bag and sighed. A crack of thunder let her, and the others, know that a thunderstorm has started. She looked over and found Pikachu cuddled up with Eevee on a pillow. He has been so worried about Ash all day, but as usual it was the evolution Pokemon to calm him down. Serena has been looking after him but she too has been worried about him.
Not so long ago she received a message from Ash's Pokegear saying he was alright but stuck in a cave. It was obvious that the storm was rolling in, and thus too dangerous to try and reunite tonight but it was good to hear from Ash anyway. She also looked at the Pokemon next to her pillow, Togepi. He has been hysterical all day. While he doesn't mind spending time with Serena, he has been scared since he saw his daddy jump into the water. Only Pikachu and Serena combined were able to get him to calm down. With her looking after the Pokemon, Serena hasn't been able to let what happened sink in.
"Can't sleep?" A familiar voice asked from behind her. Serena turned to see Virgil stood behind her. Serena nodded in response and the Pokemon range took a seat on the floor next to her, careful not to wake the Pokemon up. "Well... I've been wanting to ask something.".
"What is it?" Serena asked.
"... Ash's Sandslash." Virgil replied. "I know Ash must be a competent trainer, he wouldn't be in the Orange League if he wasn't. So, what is up with his Sandslash, it was like he was filled with rage.".
Serena sighed as she heard the question, she should've guessed that Virgil would have some questions about Sandslash... But how can she explain it to him... Well, he deserves the truth, he is letting them stay in his boat for free after all.
"The truth is... Ash caught Sandslash over a year ago, we were travelling towards Ash's fifth gym battle and we ran into another trainer." Serena explained. "Ash challenged him to a battle and he told us that his Nidoking had been badly injured by a strong wild Pokemon.".
"I'm guessing Sandslash was that wild Pokemon." Virgil guessed.
"Right. Ash was excited at the prospect of such a strong Pokemon and we went to find it." Serena continued. "We found it and the battle started. It was clearly angry and looking back, it looked less like a Pokemon battle and like he wanted to end Ash's Bulbasaur. Luckily, Bulbasaur evolved and brought Sandslash down, but he still refused to give up. He turned to me and Ash jumped in the way to protect me. Taking a crush claw in the gut and catching Sandslash in the process.".
"You must be very special to him, for him to take an attack like that." Virgil commented.
"Hehehe, honestly. Ash would do something like that for a complete stranger." Serena chuckled lightly. "It was because of that, that I finally confessed to him.".
"You confessed?" Virgil asked. "Sorry, but I always assumed Ash was the one to do that.".
"Really, Ash didn't have the first clue about romance... He can still be pretty clueless from time to time." Serena replied. "I have had a crush on him since our first meeting, but before that point I was too shy to tell him.".
"So, what happened with Sandslash?" Virgil asked, getting back on topic.
"Ash caught him but he wouldn't listen to Ash." Serena answered. "He tried everything he could think off, and treated him no different to his other Pokemon. He even let him battle in the Indigo League. Still, Sandslash wouldn't listen and would keep to himself.".
"Most trainers would've given up by this point." Virgil commented.
"I know, and today I tried to speak to him about it. I was even going to suggest that Ash lets him go." Serena admitted.
"I don't get why he hasn't already." Virgil replied.
"It's hard to explain, but..." Serena took a pause to think of the best way to word this. "But he says he can feel Sandslash's pain. Sandslash hasn't mentioned anything but he clearly has a problem with people as a whole. I just don't know what will break first, Sandslash's hard shell or Ash.".
"Ash must be one great trainer if he is still willing to give Sandslash a chance after everything." Virgil replied thoughtfully. Serena smiled, while not thrilled at the idea of having to talk about Ash and Sandslash, Serena has to admit that the talk is making her feel better.
It has been about an hour since Ash's Pokemon fell asleep. While the storm continues to dominant outside the cave, Charizard's tail flame is more than enough to keep the place warm. Ash hasn't spotted rubbing Sandslash despite the damage it is doing to his hands.
Little did Ash know, Sandslash has been awake the whole time. Ash has been talking to the ground type, about how he won't give up on him and will always be here to help him. If Sandslash was in any condition to, he would slash the boy limb from limb for those lies. He has heard it all before and all it leads to is pain and suffering. Why should he believe this boy is any different?
As Ash continued to rub the spikes on Sandslash's back, he moved a couple so he could ensure the parts near the skin are dry. As he did, Ash found something he never expected. He found scars on the ground type. Not just one or two either, but at least a couple dozen on this layer alone. From the looks of them, they weren't made at the same time as some are older than others.
Ash quickly checked another layer and found the same thing. Checking a third layer and the same again. Although impossible to count because many are over lapping with each other, Sandslash has well over a hundred scars.
"What the..." Ash gasped in confusion. Where in Kanto did these come from? Ash and none of his friends would've done this and by the looks of the scars they easily out last the time he has been in the group. Could these be why Sandslash hates humans?
"Leave! Them! Alone!" A strange threating voice demanded. Ash looked at the ground type, to see Sandslash was awake. Despite Ash catching him over a year ago, he has never actually talked to Ash. At most he's growled threateningly. That is why Ash doesn't recognise the voice.
"Sandslash..." Ash gasped gone out. He thought the ground type was still out because he hasn't moved or opened his eyes. He hasn't even made a sound. "Where did you get these? Why didn't you tell anyone? I could've...".
"Caused more!?" Sandslash snapped. After hours of this brat, scratch that, after a year of dealing with him Sandslash has had enough. "I know what your kind is like. You say, 'we will be a team' and 'you can trust me'. But when push comes to shove, it is all a lie.".
Ash just stared at the ground type with an unreadable expression. Is that what Sandslash truly thinks of him? Of people in general. What ever happened before Ash caught him must've been what created these thoughts... And those scars.
"It is because of your kind that I got them." Sandslash spat.
"Sandslash..." Ash replied sadly, so he was abused. "... You know aura has healing capabilities. I'm sure if I ask my dad then he'd...".
"None of your kind will touch them!" Sandslash lashed out. Swinging his razor-sharp claw around, Ash had to back away to avoid taking the attack. Sandslash still wasn't at a decent level of strength and that resulted in him being out of breath and unable to continue his attack. "They... Remind me...".
"Remind you of what?" Ash asked. He wasn't scared because he could tell Sandslash was too tired to attack again even if he wanted to.
"Remind me of what your kind is like... And why I shouldn't trust humans." Sandslash replied.
"What happened?" Ash asked in as calm as a tone as possible.
"You want to know?" Sandslash spat. Ash answered with a nod of the head. "If I tell you will you finally let me go and get away from your kind?".
"I want to help you Sandslash." Ash replied with as much confidence as possible. Sandslash clearly has trust issues and he would believe Ash if he wasn't confident. "But to do that, I need to know what happened... And if after you've told me, I can't help... Then yes, I will release you. If that is what you want.".
In truth, it is killing Ash to make this deal but it is the only way he can get Sandslash to open up. He would hate to let Sandslash go with this mindset that all people are bad but if he can't prove himself to Sandslash than maybe letting him go is best. It is clear that is what Sandslash wants, but that doesn't mean that is what he needs.
"I use to have a trainer, AJ... His old man caught me and gave me to him for his tenth birthday." Sandslash started. "For the first few months it was good, we got on and won a couple of badges... Then we got to a water type gym.".
Ash guessed that it was likely the Cerulean gym. It is the only water type gym from Kanto and since it is likely that Kanto is the only region Sandslash has been too since that is where he caught him, that seems to make sense.
"I lost badly in that gym, and my trainer changed. He set up a training camp on the outskirts of the city." Sandslash continued. "He was training all of us, hard. There was a whip that was left by whoever was there before and he started using it... It wasn't just me, the other Pokemon got it as well but I was his prime target.".
Ash's eyes widened as he realised those marks on Sandslash's back must've come from the whip. To have your trainer, your friend, turn like that and use such tactics to 'train' makes Ash sick. No wonder Sandslash has trust issues.
"He would use it all day, and would tell other trainers that he was training savage Pokemon. Since I lost to a water type, he would force me to go swimming and whip me when I would leave the water." Sandslash carried on. "Then he showed up.".
Ash noticed the change in Sandslash's tone. When speaking of his old trainer, it was a sad tone. Like he was upset over what happened. However, now that this new person has showed up, he realised Sandslash is just plain angry.
"The red hair, cape man, with the dragon." Sandslash growled each word. "He claimed he was here to help us, and get away from AJ. During the struggle, I ended up evolving but he was victorious. He told us to trust him... And we did.".
It didn't take a genius to work out who this individual is. A red haired, cape wearing man with a dragon, only one person fits that description, Lance. But Lance is a member of Kanto's elite four, and a member of the Pokemon G-Men, why would Sandslash be angry at him?
"At first, it seemed like trusting him was the right thing to do." Sandslash continued. "He fed us, got us medical care, and really seemed to care about us. Once we were healed, he changed.".
Now Ash was really confused. So, Lance saved him from his trainer but he seems just as, if not angrier at Lance. What could he have done to make Sandslash think like this? This story just gets even more confusing.
"He split me from my friends, the other Pokemon who were in AJ's care." Sandslash turned his back. "He told me everything would be alright, then left me in the wild. Alone, with no one, no shelter, no food. He just left me.".
Okay, now it is making sense. Sandslash must've been close to those other Pokemon AJ had. Going through that sort of experience would bring the victims close together. Not to mention, he put all his trust in Lance, who let him down. Of course, Lance must've had his reasons, but that would hurt anyone.
"I learned one thing, you are all the same. I trusted AJ, and he turned on me." Sandslash growled with his typical narrow of the eyes. "Before he changed, he said we were a team. That was a lie. Lance told me to trust him, and I did. He told me everything would be fine, and that was a lie. All your lot do is lie.".
So that's it. Sandslash has been dragged through hell, both physical and emotional torture. He trusted AJ, who turned on him. He trusted Lance, who Sandslash sees as turning on him. While Ash didn't know what Sandslash has been through, he definitely couldn't have guessed what he was just told. No wonder he has trust issues.
"Look Sandslash, I know that I cannot being to understand how you must feel after all that." Ash started slowly as he stood up. "But not all people are bad, I won't lie to you and say everyone is perfect because they aren't... If you give me a chance, I want to show you that I won't let you down.".
Sandslash looked Ash directly in the eyes with a hard-cold glare, accompanied with a low threatening growl. "Why should I trust you? Your exactly like every other human, a lie.". Despite the brat's eyes showing honesty, Sandslash isn't buying it, he knows what humans are like and has the scars to remind him.
"I'm not lying to you, Sandslash." Ash told the ground type while standing his ground. Looking into those cold hard eyes, Ash knows words alone won't prove this to him, he has been hurt by too many people for that to work. Ash needs something else. "I am like you, Sandslash.".
Sandslash extended his claws at that statement. This brat dare's compare himself to him. He has no idea what it is like, to have someone you once considered a friend abuse you, to be parted from brothers and sister. To be scar by someone you cared about.
Ash knew what he had to do to prove this to the ground type. Taking a deep breath, Ash lifted up his shirt to reveal his two scars. "You made these scars, just like AJ made yours. I don't blame you, though. In your place, I would be angry as well. If I thought it would help you, I would let you leave a thousand or more scars but it won't. The only way you can move on from this, is if you learn to trust again. Let me help you with that.".
Sandslash listened to the pleads of the brat and looked back at the scars he left on his body. When he made them, he felt good but now, all Sandslash is feeling is empty. If anything, those scars are a shallow victory. Despite being annoying, this brat didn't cause his scars, but he took the punishment for them. Analysing both the boy's words and his face, Sandslash can't help but think that the brat is being honest.
Despite every cell in his body telling him to rip this kid limb from limb, Sandslash's heart was begging him to give this boy a chance. Regardless of what has happened in the past, part of him is tired of being the cold, angry Pokemon and wants to experience friendship once more.
With much reluctance, Sandslash withdrew his claws. After what seemed like an eternity, he held his paw out to Ash, as his eyes seemed to soften up. Ash looked at the gesture before reacting by holding his own hand out.
"I don't trust you, but I am tired of living like this." Sandslash admitted. "I will give you and only you a chance.".
"Thanks, Sandslash, I won't let you down." Ash promised as he shook paws with the ground type.
"You better not... Or I will take you up on those thousand scars." Sandslash threatened as he quickly withdrew from the gesture. To his surprise, the brat... No, Ash, was smiling when he made that threat. Either this kid is loony or he doubts Sandslash would go through with it or... Maybe he will genuinely try...
It is the morning after the storm. Ash reunited with the group by riding out on Lapras' back. While Sandslash promised to give Ash a chance, he still refused to acknowledge the other Pokemon, and Ash kept the story that Sandslash told him the night before secret. After bidding good bye to Virgil, the group started travelling towards Navel Island and Ash's second Orange League gym battle.
"So, Ash, what happened?" Misty asked out of curiosity.
"After I got to Sandslash in the water, a current blew up both away. It was thanks to Lapras that we made it into the cave." Ash explained as he rubbed the water ice types head. Lapras cooed under the affection. "Sandslash was in a bad way, but thanks to Charizard we heated him up quickly.".
"Hmm..." Serena groaned. Now that she has almost lost Ash because of the ground types actions, she is close to taking the Pokeball and releasing him herself.
"I also had a talk with Sandslash, once the others were asleep." Ash admitted. "He told me about his history, and is willing to give me a chance.".
"What did he say?" Drake asked.
"I won't tell you... Not without Sandslash's permission first." Ash replied calmly. "I have been lucky enough for Sandslash to give me this chance, I won't throw his trust away by revealing his secrets. Sorry, but I will only tell you if Sandslash is happy for you to know.".
"Does it even matter? He will probably just lash out again." Serena replied in a surprisingly bitter tone.
"I don't think so Serena. Sandslash explained everything to me, and quite frankly I am not surprise he acted how he has." Ash replied. "He is tired of the pain he is in, and is letting me help him out of it. I think he really wants to try and make our relationship work.".
The group looked at each other as Togepi dragged his daddy's attention down to him. After nearly a full day away from him, Togepi wants his daddy's attention and Ash is happy to give it to him. While the started a game of peek-a-boo, the others can't help but wonder what is it that Sandslash has been through. Can it really be that bad?
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...