Author's Note:

Here it is, the brother's birthday and Drake's chance to test everything he has learnt from Ash. Not much else to this chapter, it is partially based on an episode from the anime but not too much. Also, a bit of comedy (or my attempt at least) with Cubone. I would like to point out, this will be the closest up-date to the one-year anniversary since I started this project. I like to think that over the year my writing has improved but most of all, I would like to thank everyone who has read, followed, favourited and reviewed. It really has kept me writing so thank you. Remember to vote in the latest poll, it will be up until the end of the Power of One arc. With that, let's begin...

Chapter 15: Drake's Challenge

It is currently night-time, the same day that they left the Grape Fruit Islands. It is also the day before the brother's birthday. They are approaching a sort of city like island, Kumquat Island, on Lapras' back.

"Not long now, Lapras. You have done really well today." Ash praised his water ice type.

"Thanks..." Lapras replied in pants. She has been carrying the group all day at a steady pace. Lapras as a species are very strong swimmers, some of the best on the planet, but Ash's Lapras is still very young meaning this has been quite a challenge for her. This has probably been her longest continuous swim since joining.

"Hmm... So, are you two ready for your birthday tomorrow?" Misty asked the twins. She just ended a phone call with Rudy, since he had to put Mahri to bed. Both brothers looked at each other and shrugged.

"Sure, it isn't that hard." Drake replied simply.

"Don't mind Drake, he isn't a fan of any holiday, really." Ash explained.

"It is just another day, not a big deal." Drake shrugged his shoulders.

"Hehehe, its funny. Despite you two being twins you couldn't be more different." Serena giggled as she rested her head on Ash's shoulder. Both of the brothers smirked as they realised the honey-blonde girl was right.

It wasn't long until before they reached land. Ash thanked and returned Lapras while Drake got up directions to the Pokemon centre. The group made their way over to the centre and once they entered they rented two room since they only had rooms with two beds in left. The girls took one room while the brothers took the other.

Misty walked out of the bathroom connected to the girl's room in her pajama's to find Serena sat on her bed, also in her pajama's doing some sort of wrapping up. When the honey-blonde girl saw her friend, she smiled which Misty returned.

"I guess you're putting the finishing touches on the boys presents." Misty guessed as she sat down on her own bed.

"Yeah, it took me a while to figure out what to get them both." Serena replied as she slides the two wrapped presents onto her bedside table. "I wanted to get Ash something special after the ring he gave me last year and as for Drake... I couldn't think of where to start looking.".

"I know what ya mean, Drake doesn't really let his guard down, so it is hard to know what he likes." Misty replied. "Still, thanks to Rudy I got them both something I think they will like.".

"What did you get them?" Serena asked.

"You'll just need to wait and see until tomorrow." Misty replied with a wink. "Goodnight Serena.".

"Night Misty." Serena replied as both the girls lay down to go sleep.

The next morning, the two-brothers raised out of their bed and got dressed. The movements woke up both Pikachu & Cubone who each greeted their respective trainers with a 'good morning & happy birthday'. Togepi, on the other hand, was still sleeping soundly.

"Happy birthday." Ash greeted his brother once they were both ready.

"Back at ya." Drake replied.

Before either of them could say anything else, there was a knock on the door. It didn't take a genius to work out it would be one of the girls to greet them. The other one is likely getting a table for them in the cafeteria.

"Come in, we're decent." Ash called out as he slipped his back pack onto his back, and picked up the still sleeping fairy type. Togepi slowly started to blink awake as he saw Serena walk through the door.

"Toge Toge." Togepi chirped as a sign to let everyone know that he is now awake.

"Morning guys and happy birthday." Serena greeted as she walked in. Despite addressing both of them, she walked up to Ash and planted a small peck on his cheek before looping her arm around his. Of course, Ash was holding Togepi, so she couldn't hold his hand, but Serena didn't mind. "Come on, Misty has got us a table.".

Serena lead the way to the last of the travelling group. Due to this being a busy Pokemon centre and not having much time, the table Misty picked didn't have a lot of decorations, but she had got everyone their breakfast and it had a pile of presents on the table.

The group sat down with Ash and Serena on one side, while Drake joined Misty on the other. They made small talk while eating their breakfast as they didn't want it to go cold. Ash had his typical full cooked breakfast. Drake had his typical coffee & toast. Serena had an omlet and Misty had a bowl of cereal. The group also made sure to feed the Pokemon, excepted waited until they were outside to feed the two Snorlax as there isn't much room in the cafeteria.

"Well, now that that's done. Guess we should move onto the presents." Ash suggested as he took out a neatly wrapped present out of his pocket. It was a small box shape and he placed it on the table in front of Drake.

Drake raised an eyebrow at it, as if trying to think about what it could be. He didn't spend much time thinking as he likely wouldn't get his answer. He lifted the top of the present and pulled out a golden coloured bell with a sort of red band around them.

"It's a sooth bell. I picked it up on Navel Island." Ash explained. "The sound it releases is meant to sooth any Pokemon and help the bond between trainer & Pokemon.".

Drake smiled a thank you and placed it in his pocket. While he is the type of person who likes hard facts so the idea of a bell making Pokemon friendlier is a little silly, he knows Ash believes all that stuff. Still it is a really nice thought. He pulled a book out of his bag and placed it in front of Ash. It was titled 'An Elite Training Guild'.

"It is a training guild written by Agetha. It contains all of Kanto's elite four's training programs." Drake explained.

Ash looked at the book with a bright smile. He has always dreamed of getting actual training techniques from the elite four but when he met them at the Indigo League, he knew he couldn't ask because of situation. Little did he know there was a book with this exact thing. Not to mention, this is the first present Drake has given him. While not surprised Drake got something educational, it still means a lot that he did get him something.

"Thanks Drake." Ash thanked as he put his new book into his bag.

"Okay, I'll go next." Misty decided as she placed two CD discs on the table.

One in front of each brother. The one in front of Ash read: TM 25 - Thunder while the one in front of Drake read: TM 26 - Earthquake. These are two of the most powerful moves each brother representative best brother can learn, those being Pikachu and Cubone obviously.

"Wow, thanks Misty." Ash thanked as he was clearly excited.

"Yeah, thanks a lot." Drake added.

Pikachu jumped onto the table in front of Ash while Cubone mimicked his actions and jumped onto the table in front of Drake. Each brother took the discs out of their cases and placed them on the representative Pokemon's forehead.

"Rudy let me have them, as a gym leader he has a good collection of TM's." Misty explained. "But he did warn, they are the older models, so they break after one use.".

"I can't wait to use this move in the Orange League." Ash excitedly spoke, as he placed the TM back into its case.

"Hold your Rapidash's Ash. These are both very powerful moves, it is likely neither Pikachu or Cubone will be able to use them straight away." Drake explained. Ash looked at his brother for some sort of explanation. "Thunder, Thunderbolt. They all work by discharging the electricity built up in the user's body. In Pikachu's case that is through the electric sacks in his cheeks. He can only release the right amount of power for their size. He won't be able to unleash the voltage for Thunder.".

"Aww man..." Ash sighed. He was looking forward to showing off his best buddie's power with this new move, but he isn't going to force Pikachu to use it as that could lead to a serious injury to the user. Besides, Dragonair is able to use that move if it is really needed.

"Come on, Ash. Leaf sent you both these." Serena pointed out. She moved two presents in front of the two brothers, the main difference being the wrapping paper as Ash's was in green paper while Drakes was yellow... And also had a heart pattern. Needless to say, both Drake and Cubone had massive sweat drops.

"Should I fear for my life...?" Drake asked by whispering in the ground types ear.

The Orphan Pokemon slowly nodded his head to answer his trainers question.

Both of the brothers opened their present from the hyper active girl at the same time. They kind of figured it would be the same thing considering it is the same shape and size. Once the presents were unwrapped, they were revealed to be a book titled 'Kanto's Kitchen Tip for On the Road'. She knew Ash was wanting to learn to cook and despite knowing how to cook, Drake was far from an expert, so this made sense for both brothers.

"This is great, we will need to call Leaf to thank her later." Ash exclaimed in his usual excited tone. At that one statement, Drake dropped the present on the table as the others turned towards him. Ash had to admit, he has never seen a bigger look of fear cross his face before. Not even on New Island all that time back.

"C-call her?" Drake managed to stutter out.

"You can do that later, first your mum sent these." Misty pointed out as she placed the presents on the table. The two wrapped parcels were the same shape and size, so it is obvious they have the same thing. Reading the tags stuck on, it is also labled 'love from mum & dad' which isn't anything new.

The two brothers opened their presents to see new cases for their Poke-gears. Ash's was blue while Drake's was red. Each of them also had an update code to scan into their devices to receive the latest system updates.

"Huh, well I wasn't expecting this." Drake spoke up first. "Last time I checked, mum wasn't very tech-knowledgeable.".

"Still, it is nice of her and dad to send them. We need to call her to say thanks." Ash replied.

"Of course." Drake replied. He has absolutely no issues with calling her as she was the only person he would call regularly back when travelling alone. Of course, they will also try to call their dad, but they can't be certain that they will get through to him.

"But you still have my presents left." Serena pointed out. She handed Drake a present before placing a small box in front of Ash.

"Thanks." Drake replied simply.

"Yeah Serena, thank yo..." Ash tried to thank but was cut off as Serena stopped his speech with a kiss. Drake sweat dropped at the sight, he will never understand those types of relationships, after all kissing can't be very hygienic. After about half a minute Serena pulled away.

"That was the first part, so go and open the second." Serena told her boyfriend.

Ash was bright red from the surprise kiss, while he isn't embarrassed about doing that with her, he isn't so fond of being in a public place and in front of everyone. He regained his composure, and opened the box. Inside was a golden ring similar to the one he gave her for her birthday last year. It had Ash's name engraved around the rim and the top had a small gem stone but this one was a ruby rather than a sapphire.

"Whoa, Serena it's beautiful." Ash gasped as he examined his present. He then surprised Serena by giving her a kiss back before she could respond. While she was surprised, she wasted no time in leaning to the kiss to return it. Once they parted, Serena took the ring out and placed it on her boyfriend's hand.

Drake rolled his eyes at his brother and Serena. He has nothing against her, but he isn't a fan of the shows of affection. Due to the difference in the shape of the presents it is obvious that she didn't get them the same thing, but Drake doesn't mind, it is obvious she would get something a little more personal for her boyfriend.

Drake quickly undid the wrapping paper and revealed a collection of three Ultra Balls. He smiled at them as he examined each one before placing them in his backpack.

"Thanks Serena." Drake thanked his brother's girlfriend.

"So, should we call mum and Leaf?" Ash asked his brother. "I think the video phones should be free.".

"Actually, could you call them on your Poke-gears?" Misty asked.

"We asked Nurse Joy and she said there is a festival going on in town today, so we want to get going before it gets to crowded." Serena explained. The brothers agreed and once they were ready the group set out for the festival.

"Bye mum!" The twins called out through Drake's Pokegear. The group had just arrived at the festival the girls mentioned, on the way to this event the boys called both Leaf and Delia to say thanks for their presents.

The festival itself was very lively. It reminded the group of the sort of market fair which was just outside of Fuchsia city back when Ash and Serena went on their first date. Different stands could be seen.

"This looks great, I bet there are some strong trainers around here." Ash spoke up excitedly.

"Come on, Ash. Enjoy yourself, I am sure you can switch off for at least a couple of hours." Serena replied.

"Okay, but I really want to start Snorlax's training." Ash replied. "I was hoping I could use him in my last gym battle, but considering how it went with Muk back in Celadon City.".

"Ya know Ash, I wouldn't dismiss the idea." Drake pointed out. "We are ahead of schedule and could spend up to a week here before needing to move on if we want to get to Pummelo in time for the Grand Festival. Why not put your gym battle off for a few days, that should get Snorlax in position for a gym battle?".

"Sounds like a plan." Ash replied.

"Well then let's go." Serena replied as she dragged Ash off towards a petting attraction. The Pokemon in this exhibit were similar to those found in the safari zone back in Kanto such as: Tauros, Rhyhorn, Ponyta, Nidoran, Nidorino and many others.

Misty also took her leave as she went towards a water Pokemon show. They knew of this because on the way they past a poster which showed it would focus around different water types like: Seadra, Dewgong, Slowbro, Poliwhirl, Vaporeon and the star would be a Blastoise.

With everyone else gone on their own adventures, Drake and Cubone started to walk through the festival. While it is his birthday, Drake honestly prefers his time alone with just Cubone and his other Pokemon. Sure, he is getting on great with Ash, but he is an introvert by nature. Honestly, this isn't normally his type of thing but since he is trying new things like bonding he might as well check this out as well. Who knows what is happening.

Soon Drake and Cubone made their way to a fenced off field. The field was filled with people of ages ranging between six and seven-teen, riding Ponyta. There were also many Ponyta on the field as well. It was clear this was a sort of riding experience, Drake new Serena's mum has run a few of these but with Rhyhorn.

Near the centre of field was a woman in her mid-twenties, with blue hair, a green top, blue skirt and a Rapidash by her side. It doesn't take a genius to work out she is the head of this event. Drake and Cubone made their way over towards this woman.

"Hello." Drake greeted as the trainer and Pokemon approached the women.

"How'd there, partner. I'm Lana." The women introduced herself. "Lana Laramie, and I am the instructor around these parts. I am guess'n ya'll be look'n to ride some of my Ponyta.".

"Um yes, if you wouldn't mind." Drake replied.

"Not at all." Lana replied as she looked around. "Sorry partner, but it seems like all my Ponyta have a partner right now. One should be free in twenty quick'n if ya'll don't mind waiting.".

"I don't m..." Drake replied but was cut off by his ground type.

"Cu, Cubone!" Cubone called out. Both Drake and Lana looked down to the pure ground type, who was pointing to the far corner of the ranch with his bone. Looking in that direction, Drake spotted a rather small Ponyta by its self. Looking kind of scared.

"What about that Ponyta?" Drake asked.

"Oh, that darling is one of my Rapidash's off spring." Lana replied as she stroked the Rapidash's mane. "Ya see, that one is big enough to be ridden but she is very timid. Ponyta's flames on burn others if the Pokemon wants them to, since that one is so scared of everyone no-one is able to ride her without getting burnt.".

"hmm..." Drake replied deep in thought. "So, I wouldn't be able to ride her... Would you mind if I try, at least?".

"Sure thing, knock yourself out." Lana laughed. "Just don't come cry'n to me when you get a burnt behind.".

Drake nodded in understanding at the proposal and started to walk over to the timid fire type with Cubone by his side. As soon as it became evident to Ponyta that the trainer and Pokemon were approaching her, she took a few steps back in fear until she hit the fence. Seeing this Drake stopped about two feet away from her.

"Hey Ponyta... I'm, not going to hurt you I promise." Drake spoke in his most calm voice. "Lana mentioned that you were timid, and I wanted to come and chat with you. Ya see, I am a trainer and right now I'm trying to learn how to bond and interact with Pokemon, so I thought maybe we could get to know each other.".

"Cubone bone." Cubone added to try and add some weight to his best friend's statement.

"Ta." Ponyta quietly replied. Cubone maybe a few gestured towards Drake which he understood a little better.

"Okay... I am not going to try anything." Drake replied as he sat down. This caused Ponyta to slightly relax but she still kept her distance. "I just want to help, if I can. I won't do anything you don't want me to.".

"Ponyta." Ponyta sighed in response.

"I'm going to take a stab in the dark here and say that you don't like being all timid." Drake spoke to the fire type. Ponyta looked at the ground with Drake's guess, she hates her shyness and would love a friend. "It's okay Ponyta, I had a personality trait that I didn't much care for. But now I am trying to overcome it, and you can two.".

Now he had Ponyta's attention, is there really away for her to get over this shyness? She honestly doesn't know why she is so timid, but she also has been, having a mother who is a world champion racer hasn't helped matters either. She would do anything to get over this weakness of hers. Drake could tell just by the pleading looking in the fire horse's eyes that she is desperate for a way to overcome her nature. Thinking for a moment, he reached into his pocket.

"Here Ponyta, take a look at this." Drake showed the fire type the sooth bell Ash gave him earlier. "This is a sooth bell, it is meant to release a sound which calms a Pokemon down and helps them bond regardless of their nature. I don't know if I believe it, but it can't hurt, do you want to try it?".

"Pony Ponyta." Ponyta over-eagerly replied.

Drake smiled at the fire type in a way to train and calm her as he stood up. Despite wanting to try this thing which might help her cure her timid nature, seeing the boy stand up put her back on edge. Drake took a step closer and noticed Ponyta flinched in response.

"Ponyta... I am going to need to attach it to you." Drake explained slowly. "I know your scared but for it to have the right effect, it needs to be close enough... May I?".

The fire type looked into Drake's eyes as tears welled up. She is terrified at the prospect of this boy getting any closer, sure he seems nice enough and that Cubone speaks highly of him, but she is just so shy. No. She doesn't want to be like this anymore. This is a real chance for her to get rid of this crippling weakness and she has to take it. Mustering up the brave face she could, she answered Drake's question with a nod of the head.

Drake took a few of slow small steps until he was right in front of her. He was doing his friendliest smile he could manage and kneeled in front of the fire type. It was painfully obvious that Ponyta was using her every muscle to not run away but she was still terrified. Working as quickly as he could, Drake started to attach the sooth bell to Ponyta's collar. As the seconds past, Drake noticed that the temperature was slowly raising, and he remembered what Lara mentioned before about a Ponyta's mane and tail flames. Once the bell was secure, Drake quickly but cautiously stood up and backed away which seemed to ease Ponyta slightly.

"There you go, Ponyta. That wasn't so bad was it?" Drake spoke calmly. He honestly has no idea where that question came from, it was just like his mouth started speaking without his brains content. Ash said once you get into it, bonding becomes second nature but is this what he really meant?

After regaining her composure, Ponyta answered the question with a hesitant shake of the head. The slight movement caused the sooth bell to chime and the relaxing sound echoed to the Pokemon within ear shot. Ponyta relaxed once it her the sound and was filled with confidence. She looked at Drake again, this is the boy who has helped her so far. Taking a deep breath, she took a hesitant step towards Drake. The bell range once more and while she would normally start to panick at the close proximity of Drake, the chimes were keeping her calm.

"See Ponyta, it is working already." Drake spoke up with a smile on his face. "What do you say, wanna take a walk around the field?".

Normally, the fire type would be too shy to move from this isolate area but each time she moves the sooth bell's chimes are keeping her calm. Since she isn't being as affected by her crippling shyness, the idea of moving about actually sounds nice. With her mind made up, Ponyta nodded her head to answer Drake. Cubone jumped up onto Drake's shoulder as he started to walk with Ponyta at his side.

"Well how bout that?" Lara thought to herself as she watched Drake walk and talk with the timid fire type.

"Um... Pikachu, did you tell Togepi he could do that?" Ash asked his starter.

After going around the festival with Serena, Ash decided to start his training with Snorlax. Right now, the normal type is fast asleep and Togepi is bouncing on his stomach like he is on a trampoline. The Spikeball Pokemon is chirping happily as he goes up and down and up and down and up and down...

Pikachu tried to casually walk away whilst whistling a generic tone as to not draw attention to himself. Unfortunately, that only raised Ash's suspicious of the electric type but before the raven-hair boy could question the mouse Pokemon any further, Togepi bounced the side of Snorlax's stomach so he went flying away from the sleeping Pokemon. Ash reacted instinctively and caught the fairy type mid-air. At least the Spikeball Pokemon didn't get hurt.

"Well, now all I have to do is wake Snorlax up." Ash sighed as he looked at his next obstacle.

"I bet your really fast and strong Ponyta." Drake commented. The Fire Horse had been watching the other Ponyta running around with a person on their back practising some for what seemed to be a sort of race. "Do you want to give it ago? I mean, I'm not an expert but maybe we could try it together.".

"Pony Ponyta." Ponyta nodded with a friendly smile. They have been walking around the field for half an hour and have been talking. Cubone has been helping Drake to understand what the fire type is saying, but this is the first person she actually feels comfortable around.

"Great." Drake smiled as he turned back to his ground type. "Sorry buddy but I don't think you will be able to ride with us, will you be alright on your own?".

"Cubone Bone." Cubone replied with a mischievous smirk. Before Drake could ask any questions, the ground type jumped up and swiped a Pokeball off Drake's belt. The birthday boy looked at the Pokeball in question, only to find it was Jolteon's.

"You wanna play with Jolteon?" Drake raised an eyebrow with uncertainty.

"Cu Cubone." Cubone smiled a little to friend before walking away with the Pokeball in hand. Drake sighed as he turned back to the fire type, while not completely sure he trusts Cubone he knows Jolteon is responsible and won't let him get into too much trouble.

"Pony?" Ponyta questioned.

"Don't worry about them, Ponyta. I am sure they will be fine." Drake replied as he approached fire horse. He could still feel a little heat coming off the flames, so he scratched under her chin in a way to comfort her. "Are you sure you want to do this? I won't make you do anything you're not comfortable with.".

"Ponyta." Ponyta nodded again with a determined look in her eye. She has always heard from her mother about how fun races really are, but she has always been too shy to partake. This maybe be her only chance to actually race and she can't pass it up.

Drake felt the heat from her mane and tail disappear, hesitantly he stroked down her neck to confirm this. Now that he is sure Ponyta is ready for him, he tried to remember how Ash got on his Tauros back at Cissy's gym or when he has seen Ms Yvonne get on her Rhyhorn. While shaking and far from perfect, he was able to get onto the fire type first time.

Ponyta had to adjust her footing because of the new weight on her back but after about ten seconds they were stable. Drake grabbed the reins which were already on the fire horse Pokemon and very slowly the two of them started to trot around the field.

"Well, what do ya know. The little fella's gone an done it." Lara thought as she watched Drake and Ponyta from afar. She looked to her oldest friend, and saw a smile on Rapidash's face. "You think what I'm think?".

"Dash." Rapidash nodded firmly.

"Well then, we better put 'em to the test." Lara smirked.

Lara and Rapidash made their way over to Drake and Ponyta. Who didn't notice them approaching because they were facing the other way. They have been at this for about five minutes and are pretty comfortable with a little walk.

"Well, that's a sight I didn't expect to see today." Lara spoke up causing Ponyta (and thus Drake since he is riding her) to turn and face her.

"Hehehe, well we thought it would be fun." Drake sheepishly replied.

"Quit ya belly aching. I ain't got complaints." Lara replied. "In fact, I have a proposition for ya's.".

"Really?" Drake questioned.

"Pony?" Ponyta questioned.

"Ya see, I'll be straight with ya's. I wasn't so sure about what to do with Ponyta here." Lara started. "She has been part of the riding event for three months, and not once has someone been able to ride her... Until now.".

"Right." Drake replied as thoughtfully as he could whilst trying not to fall of the fire type.

"In the wild, Ponyta's leave their mother's side shortly after birth and that time has long since passed for this one." Lara continued. "I have seen her behaviour in other Ponyta, but not all of 'em find a suitable partner. I know she won't be able to ride with another person like she is with you.".

"What are you saying?" Drake asked.

"I was just bout to release Ponyta, into the wild. But seeing as she has opened up with ya, I have a better idea." Lara explained. "Instead of sending her of on her own, I want her to join you.".

"Really!?" Drake replied with evident shock.

"Ta!?" Ponyta replied in the same manner as Drake.

"Really." Lara replied. "But ya's need to do one thing first. We are holding a race this afternoon and anyone can enter with my Ponyta's here. She is my best friend's little girl after all, I want you to prove to her this is the right decision by competing.".

"Um, well I'm up for it. What about you Ponyta?" Drake asked.

The fire type had a look of torment on her face. She was a champions daughter, the only one of Rapidash's children here since the others have gone off to do their own thing. She has had a lot of pressure to live up to her mother's legacy. Those that show the most promise, like her siblings are sent away for special training and most of them are champions in their own right. She isn't so sure that racing is for her but like Lara just said, if not a racer she will be released into the wild. Honestly, with all things considered, she would love to travel with Drake. He has been so nice and if today has proven anything, he would be her best help to overcome her crippling shyness. With her decision made she looked both Lara and her mother down with determination. She nodded her head to answer the question.

Ash had just spent the best part of an hour trying to wake his Snorlax up. His other Pokemon have been put onto their own training sessions and he hasn't even spoke with Snorlax yet. Drake has made training his Snorlax look so easy, like any other Pokemon. What is he doing wrong?

He has tried everything to wake the normal type up: Shouting, shaking, bucket of cold water. Nothing works. Where did Drake get to anyway? He said he would help him train Snorlax. Normally he wouldn't give a festival like this a second glance so, where is he?

"Ladies and Gentlemen this is a great day for the festival race. We have fifth-teen Ponyta lined up ready to get this race underway." The announce announced as the crowd cheered. "The course is one circuit of the training fields perimeter, and the winner will be given the festival trophy.".

Among the Ponyta was Drake on his new friend. Looking at the competition, he formed a massive sweat drop. Some of these people are skilled riders, he was observing them since being given this challenge. How is he going to beat them? He wants to win so Ponyta isn't left in the wild to fend for herself but what are the actual chances of him winning? He hates to admit it, but he can't see this end anyway but badly.

Along with the Ponyta, a late arrive joined the race. It was Cubone who was stationed on top of Jolteon. The electric type eeveelution sweat dropped as this wasn't what he had in mind when the ground type mentioned a race.

"Now remember competitors, no attacks are permitted during the race." The announced continued. "Three... Two... One... Start!".

With the race underway, the Ponyta's sped ahead each trying to get an early lead. Well, all but the one Drake was riding. The fast movements scared her, and she froze in her place. Lucky, she was able to control herself enough to not burn her rider.

"Shhh, it's okay Ponyta. Their gone." Drake whispered to the fire type. "Let's get going... At your pace, alright.".

The fire horse Pokemon eased up at the comfort and began to slowly trot across the track. They were about a third of the field behind the others. Drake realised it was practically impossible for them to win now but maybe if they finished it would help Ponyta with her confidence issues and convince Lara to keep her around.

In the head of the race was Jolteon and Cubone. Being much smaller than the Ponyta's worked to their advantage as they were able to zig in and out of their feet and not get cut off easily. As they duo pulled away Cubone looked back to second and third place. Sticking his tongue out he also hit his own behind as a way to taunt the other competitors.

"What's this!? It seems we have a sixteenth entry, which is a Jolteon with a Cubone as its rider." The announced questioned. "This is a first for me but nothing in the rules says that they can't compete. Provided they follow the no-attacks rule.".

Jolteon kicked it up a notch, this ground type is so embarrassing, and he wants to end this mess of a race. This is the last time he lets anyone ride on top of him, he has a love for speed, but he also has his dignity. Man, this is embarrassing.

Cubone and Jolteon were the first to cross the finishing line as the crowd cheered for the unique racers. They were soon followed by the other Ponyta's. Drake was half way around the field, being the only duo left. Despite this, Drake wanted to finish the race. Even if they came last, it was just the right thing to.

Before long Drake and Ponyta trotted across the finish line. By the time they finished the top three finishers were being presented with their medals for the second and third place while Cubone was given the first-place trophy. It was nothing massive but enough for the ground type.

Drake jumped of Ponyta, not having any reason to get involved with the celebrations he started to stroke Ponyta's neck while talking calmly to her. He was actually quite upset though. He never had any intentions of build Ponyta up with a bond only to break it back down, nor did he want to part but what could he do?

"How'd their partner." Lara spoke behind the raven-hair boy. Drake turned towards the women who seemed happy, did she not want him to take Ponyta and if so then why did she bring it up. Actually, why would she set a challenge where it is practically impossible for them to win. "Why the long faces?".

"Well, we lost the race and..." Drake started to explain but was cut off.

"Ya'll didn't expect to win, did ya's?" Lara asking in an almost laughing voice. Drake didn't feel a need to respond to the clearly rhetorical question. "This test was never about winning, it was to show old Rapidash you'd take care of Ponyta. You supported her when scared and encouraged her to finish.".

"So, you mean that..." Drake spoke with a hopeful tone but was cut off again.

"Right ya's are." Lara smiled. "Feel free to catch Ponyta when you're ready.".

"Catch?" Drake questioned. "You mean Ponyta doesn't already have a Pokeball?".

"Course not, if I kept the Ponyta in Pokeballs I could only bring five of them with me." Lara explained. "Rapidash is the only one I have a Pokeball for, the others are practically wild Pokemon.".

Drake didn't really have anything else to say so he turned towards Ponyta. He reached into his bag and pulled out one of the Ultra Balls he received earlier. This was the first capture since changing his strategy. If you don't count Cubone then this is the first Pokemon he caught that he never planned on.

"Ponyta, if you want to I would be honoured if you'd..." Drake tried to offer but Ponyta didn't wait for him. The fire type pressed her nose against the centre of the Ultra Ball and was sucked in. The ball instantly dinged, and Drake pulled his Pokedex out to scan his new team member:

Ponyta, The Fire Horse Pokemon. Ponyta is very weak at birth. It can barely stand up. This Pokémon becomes stronger by stumbling and falling to keep up with its parent. Its legs grow strong while it chases after its parent. It runs in fields and mountains all day.

Type: Fire

Ability: Run Away

Hidden Ability: Flame Body (Note: This hidden ability is unlocked).

Gender: Female

Nature: Timid (Note: This nature could change when this Pokemon evolves)

Move(s): Growl, Tackle, Tail Whip, Ember

Held Item: Sooth Bell (this item is known for releasing soothing sounds and helps the Pokemon bond with their trainer)

Suddenly, Drake's Pokedex started vibrating and the screen lit up with images of all of Drake's current on hand Pokemon: Charizard, Jolteon, Victreebel, Machamp, Cubone, Snorlax and Ponyta. Both Cubone's and Jolteon's pictures were blacked out as they are currently out of their Pokeballs.

"Please select which Pokemon you wish to send back." The device requested.

Drake looked at the five remaining images, he made a swift decision and clicked Charizard's Pokeball. There was no real reason why he chose the fire flying type over the others. He just didn't want to waste by returning Jolteon, he also didn't want to send Ponyta straight away and obviously Cubone was staying so it just came down to: Charizard, Victreebel, Machamp and Snorlax. In the end, he didn't see the need for having two fire types right now.

"Come on out, Ponyta." Drake released his newly caught fire horse Pokemon as he closed his Pokedex and put it away. Unlike Ash who typically throws his Pokeballs into the air to release them, Drake simply holds his out in front of him. In a flash of light, Ponyta appeared in front of her new trainer and Drake clipped the Ultra Ball to his belt in the position where Charizard's Pokeball was. "Welcome to the team, Ponyta.".

"Ponyta." Ponyta smiled before stepping forward and nuzzling her head into Drake's stomach. Drake was taken by surprise with this, he has seen several of Ash's Pokemon being affectionate but the only one of his who has shown some type of affection was Cubone, and the ground type has long since grown out of it. Soon the shock wore off and Drake returned the show off affection by rubbing her head.

"Ponyta, I am going to introduce you to my other Pokemon. I know you've already met Cubone but there are several others." Drake explained. "But first I want to reunite with the people I'm travelling with. So, before we go, I think you should say goodbye to your mother.".

Ponyta didn't make a noise but slowly stopped the show of affection. She knew that this time would come and even though she is excited to start her new life with Drake, she will miss her mother. Hesitantly, Ponyta turned towards Lara and Rapidash. The fire type reluctantly trotted over to her mother.

Drake smiled as he watched the mother and daughter say goodbye but soon something else drew his attention. His electric type appeared at his feet with his Pokeball in mouth, not looking very happy. Not making a sound, Jolteon dropped the Pokeball and pressed his nose against the centre to return himself. Drake looked confused as he picked the Pokeball back up and clipped it to his belt. He would likely need Ash to translate if he wanted to get to the bottom of this.

"Cubone." The ground type's voice drew Drake's attention once again. Cubone stood just in front of his trainer holding the first-place trophy and a smug look. No doubt Jolteon's unhappiness has something to do with being ridden by Cubone. He will need to deal with this later.

"Congrates, Cubone." Drake approached the Orphan Pokemon. He walked over and picked the ground type up. "Let's go and see the others.". Ponyta heard what Drake said and returned to his side. With one final goodbye, the trio started to walk back towards the Pokemon centre, and he put Cubone's trophy into his bag.

"Man... This has got to be our least productive training session ever." Ash sighed as he leaned against the sleeping Pokemon. He has sent all his other Pokemon to Nurse Joy for a check-up after they had a productive training session but Snorlax hasn't even woken up.

From the distance, Ash noticed three figures walking towards him. One was his brother, with Cubone on his shoulder. The weird one was a Ponyta. Ash's twin brother appeared in front of him in a short amount of time.

"Ponyta, this is my brother Ash. And his newly caught Snorlax." Drake introduced. "Ash, this is Ponyta. She has joined my team. She is a little timid but is really nice.".

"Nice to meet you, Ponyta." Ash reached out to pet the fire type.

Ponyta panicked when she saw the hand moving towards her, while she is sure Drake's brother is nice she is still a very timid and sky Pokemon. She was quick to retreat and hid behind Drake's back. The raven-hair boy turned towards his new team member.

"It's okay, Ponyta. Ash isn't going to hurt you." Drake spoke soothingly, also softly hitting the sooth bell to help calm her down. It didn't take Ponyta long to return to a calm state. "Why do you rest in your Pokeball for now and we can introduce the others later.".

The fire horse Pokemon nodded as she liked the sound of that. Drake grabbed her Ultra Ball and returned her before clipping the Ultra Ball back onto his back. He turned back to Ash who was wearing a bright smile, never has he seen Drake like that. Drake rolled his eyes in response.

"How did your training go?" Drake asked, changing the subject before it even started.

"It didn't... Not with Snorlax at least." Ash frowned. "I couldn't even get him to wake up.".

"Probably because Snorlax are very stubborn Pokemon." Drake replied with a smirk. "You're not going to like to hear this, but you need to show them who is in charge. To wake them up, don't just ask nicely, use your other Pokemon to wake him up. Only once he knows that you call the shots will you be able to start training.".

"Hang on, Sandslash was also stubborn and disobedient but I didn't have to attack him to show who was boss." Ash replied angrily. "If I did, that would've only made the situation worse.".

"But Sandslash's attitude was man-made, by nature they are a calm and tame species." Drake replied. "Just like by nature, Snorlax's are stubborn. Combine that with their laziness and until they know who is in charge, you won't be able to keep them awake long enough to train. Let alone long enough for a battle.".

"... Okay fine." Ash sighed. Knowing Drake has studied how to raise a Snorlax specifically, since it was part of his original plan for Kanto, Ash knew Drake was more knowledgeable then him. Plus, the reason they are travelling together was, so they could learn from each other, Ash would be an idiot not to take his advice now.

"Good." Drake replied. "We can start training tomorrow. It is getting late anyway.".

"Snorlax return." Ash recalled his sleeping Pokemon and the two brothers started to walk back towards the Pokemon centre.

"Oh, and Ash." Drake looked at his twin brother. "Happy birthday.".

As the day came to a close, the two brothers were happy with how it turned out. For Drake, it was a chance to test out everything he has been learning from Ash and he made a brand-new friend in Ponyta. It will be weird to train her, since he hasn't looked into her species specifically but that just comes with the fact that his original plan has come to an end. Just like with learning to bond, this will be a whole new experience but definitely worth it.

Ash, while not so happy about how training with Snorlax has started is happy about the progress he has made with Drake. Compared to their last birthday, they are actually talking and getting on. Based on how they were this time last year, things could be better and now he is ready to win the Orange League.

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...