Seishin: Okay! So, uh … uh … anyone?

Omega: Does anything happened in this episode?

Ohirume *shrugs* It's filler.

Omega: *sweat drops* Great. Hey Mizuro! Grab your bass!

Mizuro: Why?

Omega: You ever heard of Teen Titans Go?

Mizuro: Ugh. Unfortunately, I have.

Omega: *sci-fi portal sound* Well, how do you feel about sparring in one of their worlds? *wicked smirk* And destroy it in the process.

Mizuro: *bright smile* YES! *runs and jumps* Fooly Cooly!

Omega: *chuckles before jumping*

Nuevo: *sweat drops* Should we be worried?

Ohirume: Not so long as they stay in that world during the rampage.

I don't own Pokémon or Ben 10.

.

.

Lara-Lara's wild ride: Flame 'Mon Run

(Seishin: I think I just cringed hard enough break my neck.

Ohirume: I don't blame you.)

.

After leaving the Giva Hot Springs Resort, Ash and co. continued on their journey. Their destination: Cinnabar Island … eventually. They had some time to kill, so they decided to drop by the Safari Zone. Y'know, for the Yvel of it.

They came to a wide-open field with a mountain range in the distance.

Misty smiled brightly, "Alright!"

Brock smiled too, "It looks like we made it."

"Yes!" Clefairy cheered.

Ash sweat dropped with a smile, "Not just yet."

Soot snickered, "Safari zones are closed off by a few miles of fence and have a place to check in."

Misty frowned and slumped over, "Oh."

Pikachu crossed his arms and pouted, "You could've said that earlier."

They suddenly felt the ground shaking.

Misty flinched and looked around frantically, "I-is this an earthquake?"

Ash raised a brow, knelt down, and put a hand on the ground, "Hm. It feels more like-"

Brock pointed into the ahead, "Hey! Look over there!"

Everyone looked over to see a large dust cloud heading in their general direction. Upon closer inspection, they found the source.

Ash smiled, "Oh, it's just a tauros stampede."

Pikachu sweat dropped, "Yeah … just."

Brock sweat dropped, "Still better than an earthquake, I guess."

The group watched as the stampede ran by about a yard away from them.

Soot perked up and looked up at Ash with a smile, "Hey, maybe we could catch one."

Ash frowned, "I'm not so-"

"Not so fast!"

Everyone looked over to see a growlithe running towards them. The Puppy Pokémon jumped and landed in front of the group with a skid.

Growlithe glared angrily, "No one lays a paw, wing, or hand on any of the Big P. herds on my watch!"

Soot blinked in surprise, "Big P. herds?"

Brock jerked and looked at Soot in shock, "Wait, that's where we are?!" He smiled brightly, "I can't believe it!"

Misty looked at Pewter Leader in confusion, "You know this place Brock?"

Brock nodded; still smiling brightly, "Of course! It's an incredibly high ranked breeding ranch where they raise Pokémon in the wild! It's an incredible stroke of luck to actually receive a Big P. Pokémon!"

Growlithe stared at Brock in shock, "Wha-"

Clefairy giggled and pointed at Soot, "She speaks human."

Soot grinned at the Fire-type.

"That's mighty kind of you, mister."

Everyone looked over again to find a blue-haired girl on the back of a ponyta.

She smiled at the group, "Nice to meet you all. Name's Lara Laramie."

Soot and Pikachu sweat dropped, 'Lara Laramie?'

Ash smiled, "Nice to meet you, too. My name's Ash." He started gesturing to his Pokémon, "These guys are Pikachu, Clefairy, and Soot."

Pikachu raised a paw, "Hey."

Clefairy waved, "Hi there!"

Soot smiled, "Nice to meet you." Lara's eyes widened upon seeing the Bite Pokémon talk.

Misty gestured to herself, "My name's Misty."

Brock ran up to her, held out a hand with a dumb smile, "And I'm Brock! It's a pleasure to meet you miss Laramie!"

"Oh my." Lara said as she jumped down from Ponyta's back and ran past Brock and over to Soot.

Brock stared in shock and slumped over. Misty couldn't help but snicker.

The girl knelt down and stared intently at the canine.

Soot blinked in surprise, "Can I help you?"

Lara smiled brightly, grabbed Soot's head, and started moving it around to inspect her, "Incredible. I've never actually met a takin' Pokémon before." She looked around at the group, "Which of you's its trainer?"

Ash's eye twitched at the word 'it.' He shook it off and smiled, "That would be me. I raised her since I was five."

Lara smiled up at him, "Well, you've done a might fine job of it."

Soot sweat dropped, "Could you please let go of my head now?"

Lara let go and stood back up while scratching the back of her head sheepishly, "Sorry. I just got a little excited."

Soot chuckled, "You'd be far from the first."

.

**Time Skip**

Lara invited the group deeper into the ranch. Ash, Brock, and Misty leaned against or sat on a fence to get a view of the surrounding groups of Pokémon as the ranch's workers took care of them. Lara was back on Ponyta's back. Pikachu and Clefairy sat on the fence on either side of Ash.

Soot sat off to the side and was being examined by three of the workers. In her opinion, it was still better than Seymour. But not by a lot.

Misty looked at Lara with a raised brow, "Hey, isn't it kind of dangerous to ride a ponyta without a special saddle?"

Lara shook her head with a smile, "Not at all. With the right trainin', a ponyta's flames won't burn anyone they trust."

Ash jumped down from the fence and moved closer to pet the horse's neck, "Nice to meet you, Ponyta."

Lara stared in surprise, "What the? I've never seen Ponyta warm up to someone so fast."

Ponyta sweat dropped, "I'm pretty sure that's not it."

Ash chuckled and pulled back his hand, "That's not the case." He pulled at the collar on his jacket, "My clothes are all fireproof and I have an unnaturally high tolerance to heat. The flames just felt a little warm to me."

Lara blinked in surprise, "Well, I'll be."

.

*Soot

Soot's eye twitched as the workers measured her … everything, 'How are these people qualified to be assistants?'

One of the men held out a tongue depressor and held up a flashlight, "Now say 'aww.'"

Soot deadpanned, "Seriously?" She sighed but complied anyway, "Aww."

The worker quickly pushed down her tongue and examined her throat. They blinked in surprise, "Huh? It looks completely normal."

Soot spat out the depressor and sweat dropped, "Why would it be any different? My ability to speak human isn't a matter of some selective breeding or a genetic mutation. It's a learned skill." 'Thank Arceus they haven't found out who I am.'

A woman stared at her surprise, "Really?" She crouched down in front of the Dark-type, "How did you learn?"

Soot smiled at finally receiving a normal question, "By example over the course of a year." She smirked, "But," She looked over to Ash and the others, "Hey, Brock come over here for a second!"

Brock walked over, "What is it?"

Soot nudged her head in the direction of the workers, "I have a feeling they'll want to see your notebook. Y'know like the pages about teaching a Pokémon to speak human and some of the unique terms Pokémon use."

The other male worker jerked and looked at Brock in surprise, "Wait what?!" The trio ran over to him.

"You actually have information like that?!" The woman asked excitedly.

Brock chuckled nervously and brought out his notebook, "Um, yeah. As well as few of my personal reci-"

One of them snatched the book from him, "Let me see!"

Another grabbed at the book and glared at the first, "Hey! I wanna see too!"

Brock grimaced, "Hey! Stop! You're gonna tear it!"

Soot sighed in relief, 'That should get them off my tail for a while.' She walked back over to Ash and the others.

Ash noticed and smiled, "Hey Soot. I guess they're finally done 'examining' you."

Soot sweat dropped, "More or less. I passed them off to Brock." She looked at Lara, "No offense, but I think those workers could use a little more training."

Lara giggled, "Oh, those three are actually volunteers. We don't look to far into credentials so long as they can help." She looked at the group and sweat dropped, "Though I will admit, those few are a bit more enthusiastic than we're used to"

The third one joined in the arguing, "Give it!" All three were pulling at the notebook.

"Seriously! Cut it out!" Brock shouted.

Misty sweat dropped, "I'll say." She perked up and looked around with a smile, "Still, this place really is amazing. I'd love to see more of it."

Lara smiled, "Well, we're having big party here tonight. Why don't you all come as my guests?"

Clefairy's eyes lit up, "Party?!"

Ash smiled and nodded, "Thank you, Lara. It sounds like fun."

Pikachu pumped a fist, "Alright!"

Lara continued, "And if you stay here at the ranch tonight, you'll be able to see the Big P. Pokémon race tomorrow."

Soot raised a brow, "Pokémon race?"

Lara nodded, "It's a massive annual event of ours. Anyone who wins becomes an honorary member of the Laramie clan."

The ground started rumbling again.

Lara looked towards the source, "Huh?"

Misty put a hand over her eyes, "Is that the tauros again?"

Ash squinted, "Dodrio actually."

The small flock of Triple Bird Pokémon shot past the past in the span of a second.

Clefairy watched in awe, "Woah! They move fast!"

A separate dodrio ran up to the group; this one with a rider.

"Howdy Lara." The purple-haired rider said.

Lara's eyes narrowed, "You again."

The rider smirked, "That race is as good as mine and you know it."

One the dodrio heads sweat dropped.

Lara glared at the guy, "Don't be so sure. It takes more than just speed to win the race."

He laughed, "Hah! Yeah, sure. You just be ready to lose little missy." His dodrio broke into a sprint and chased after the flock.

Soot's eyes narrowed, "And, just like that, I hate him."

Misty glared at the leaving rider, "The nerve of that guy!"

"Jerk!" Pikachu shouted.

Clefairy stuck her tongue out.

Ash glanced at Lara with a raised brow, "Who the Yvel was he?"

Lara sighed, "That was Dario. He's a dodrio trainer. As ya heard, he's enterin' the race like I am." She frowned and crossed her arms, "Honestly, I'm not so sure about the idea of someone like him joinin' my clan."

Soot frowned, "Well honestly, I don't blame you."

.

*Late that night; Pre-race party

Lara lead the group through the party with Growlithe by her side. Ash had Pikachu and Clefairy on his shoulders, Soot by his side, and a large cotton candy in his hand. On a related note, Clefairy discovered her new favorite treat.

Misty and Brock, who finally escaped the volunteers and got his notebook back, followed closely behind.

A man at a concession stand soon noticed them and smiled, "Hey, Lara. Good luck in the race tomorrow. We're all gonna be rootin' for ya."

Lara waved at him with a kind smile, "Thank you kindly."

"You're Ponyta's great!" A woman called out.

"Thank you, ma'am." Lara responded.

"Good luck, Lara!"

"'Preciate it."

"Go for it, girl!"

Brock smiled, "It seems like Lara's a real fan favorite around here."

Misty nodded, "No kidding. She and Ponyta must really be something."

Ash took a bite out of the cotton candy, "We must be pretty lucky to have run into her."

Clefairy held out a hand towards the fair food, "Come on! I want some more!" She pouted and looked at him with sad eyes, "Please."

Ash chuckled and looked down at Soot, "You actual taught her how to beg like that?"

Soot looked away with a smirk, "I don't know what you're talking about."

Ash rolled his eyes, still smirking, before tearing off a hunk for Clefairy.

The Fairy-types eyes lit up as she happily accepted, "Thank you!"

Pikachu looked over at Clefairy before looking at Ash, "Can I have some too?"

Ash chuckled and tore off another piece before handing it to mouse, "Don't expect this to last forever. I'll have to cut you two off at some point."

Clefairy flinched, paled, and looked at Ash in fear, "C-cut?"

Ash sweat dropped, "It's an expression."

Clefairy sighed in relief, "Oh thank Arceus!"

Brock, Soot, and Misty couldn't help but chuckled at the interaction.

Lara glanced back at Ash in interest, 'He must have a really strong bond with his Pokémon to talk with them like that.'

"Hey Lara!"

Everyone turned around to find Dario running towards them.

He stopped and pointed back the way he came, "All of your tauros are goin' crazy back at the ranch!"

Lara's eyes widened, "Oh no! We have to hurry!"

She started to run but was stopped but Ash as he held out an arm, "Wait." He glared at Dario, "Why are you the one who came to tell us?"

Misty's eyes narrowed, "And how do we know you're telling the truth?"

Dario started sweating, "I swear I am! The tauros are really goin' nuts!"

Brock crossed his arms, "Did you see how it happened?" He glared, "Or cause it?"

Dario flinched, "N-no way! I just saw them actin' up! I don't how it happened!"

Ash's eyes narrowed, "So, you showed up just in time to find the herd going crazy, but not soon enough to find the source? And don't try saying it must've happened way earlier, someone like a relative or neighbor would have noticed long before you and come to tell Lara."

Lara blinked in surprise and looked down thoughtfully. She shook it off and looked at the group with a determined glare, "Look, you're all makin' some fine points, but those tauros are my responsibility. Even if he's lyin', I can't take that chance."

Lara pulled out a pokéball and tossed it into the air, "Ponyta!"

The Fire Horse appeared in a flash and Lara immediately jumped on, "Let's go!"

Ponyta complied and sped off towards the ranch. Ash, Brock, and Misty followed.

Soot glared at Dario, "Watch your back, glitch." She ran after the others.

Dario sweat dropped as they left, "That coulda gone better." His eyes widened, "Wait, did I just get called a glitch by a dog?"

.

*Back at the ranch

Ash, Soot, Brock, and Misty finally caught up to Lara at the ranch; the latter two breathing heavily.

Soot sweat dropped, "You guys okay?"

Misty glared at her, "Not everyone has your level of stamina."

They got their second wind when they heard Lara scream. The flinched and looked over to find her lying on the ground while holding her arm and a spooked Ponyta on her hindlegs and neighing frightenedly.

Ash grimaced, "Crag!"

The group ran over. Brock and Misty made their way to Lara to help her up. Ash and Soot went straight for Ponyta.

Brock propped the girl up, "Lara. How are you?"

Lara smiled sadly, "I- I think I'm- OW!" She cried out before holding her arm.

Misty's eyes widened, "Don't move that arm!"

Ash grabbed the rein and pulled as he tried to calm the horse, "Ponyta! Calm down! Everything's okay!"

Lara watched in interest at his attempt.

Ash continued pulling, "Just calm down! It's okay!" He had quickly dodged and flailing hoof while still pulling.

Soot grimaced and shifted her eyes, "Don't worry. I'll-"

"No!" Ash commanded, "Leave her be, Soot! We can't just force her to calm down like that!"

After a few more seconds, Ponyta settled down.

Ash smiled sadly and rubbed her neck; ignoring the flames, "There we are, girl. See? Everything's fine."

Lara blinked in surprise, 'Not bad.'

.

**Time Skip**

The group moved to Lara's house. The Laramie girl looked out a window sorrowfully with her left arm in a sling and Ponyta close behind her. Ash, Misty, Brock, and Soot sat around a table with Growlithe sitting next to them. Pikachu and Clefairy stood on the table.

Lara sighed, "With my arm like this, I can't grip Ponyta's reins. I won't be able to race tomorrow."

Ponyta looked down sorrowfully.

Brock frowned, "Too bad for the Laramie clan."

Lara perked up, "Hold on." She looked back at the group with a smile, "Ash, you could ride Ponyta for me."

Everyone, even Ponyta and Growlithe, looked at her in surprise, "HUH?!"

Ash jumped to his feet, "Wait what?! Lara, I may have a resistance, but eventually the flames will become too much for me!" He looked at Ponyta, "No offense."

Ponyta raised a brow at him, "Why would I take offense to that? That's just common sense."

Soot snickered and translated.

Ash blinked before shrugging, "Fair point." He looked back at Lara, "I'm not sure I'm the right person for this job."

Lara shook her head and smiled, "I've seen the way you are with Pokémon, Ash. Even just now, you've proven yourself a model trainer by treating Ponyta as an equal. Even though you only just met her today."

Ash blinked in surprise, "Why wouldn't I treat her as an equal?"

Lara smiled and pointed at him, "Exactly!" She shifted to a kind smile, "I know you can do this. I believe in you."

Misty smiled and clenched a fist, "Yeah! Someone's gotta beat that Dario creep!"

Brock nodded, "If anyone could do it, Ash, it'd be you."

"Yeah!" Pikachu and Clefairy cheered.

Ash looked back at them with a soft smile, "Thanks." He frowned again and looked at Lara, "Look, I'd be happy to help. Heck, I want to help. But-" He looked at Ponyta, "it's not just my choice."

Lara smiled when he said that and looked at her Fire-type, "Ponyta, do you think you can trust Ash? At least, long enough to run in the race?"

Ponyta glanced at Ash and her eyes narrowed, "I not so sure."

Soot frowned, "She's still on the fence about it."

Ash frowned and put his right hand to his chin. He caught the light glinting off his watch and his eyes widened.

He looked back at Ponyta with a smile, "How about this." He held up three fingers, "Three minutes outside with just you, me, and my Pokémon. And even Growlithe if it makes you feel better. If you still won't trust me afterwards, my friends and I will work all night to find you a trustworthy rider."

Brock and Misty flinched, "Wait, what?!"

Ponyta blinked in surprise before raising a brow, "Just three minutes, huh?" She nodded, "Fine. But if you try anything, I'll Stomp into the ground personally."

Growlithe walked over, "And I'll definitely be going with you." His eyes narrowed, "And you can add a Fire Fang to that Stomp."

Soot sweat dropped and translated; threats included.

Lara looked at her Pokémon in disappointment, "Ponyta! Growlithe!"

Ash chuckled, "It's okay, Lara." He looked back at Ponyta and nodded with a smile, "Deal."

"Hey, Ash." Misty said; catching the boy's attention. She gestured for him to come with a glare, "Come here for a sec, would you?"

Ash walked over and looked at them curiously, "What's up?"

Misty's eyes narrowed, "You mean aside from you dragging us into this without our permission?"

Brock crossed his arms, "You'd better have good plan, Ash. I don't want to miss the race tomorrow."

Ash chuckled, "Guys, it's fine." He held up the watch, "I think method will work pretty well."

The pair caught on instantly.

Brock sighed in relief, "Thank goodness. You had me worried there for a bit."

Misty sweat dropped, "Yeah, seriously. Next time, lead with that."

Growlithe overheard and his eyes narrowed.

.

*Backyard; Ash, Pikachu, Clefairy, Growlithe, Ponyta

The small group stood on either side of each other. Growlithe was glaring at Ash apprehensively. Soot was currently looking around.

Ponyta looked at Ash with a raised brow, "Alright, you obviously have some kind of plan. So, shoot."

Pikachu smirked and translated; causing Ponyta and Growlithe to look at him in confusion.

Ash looked at Ponyta and nodded, "Can do."

Growlithe blinked in surprise and pointed to the mouse, "Wait, he speaks human too?"

Clefairy giggled, "Nope. Ash can just understand us."

Soot smirked, "And you're about to see why." She looked up at Ash, "The coast is clear, by the way."

Ash brought up the watch, sprang up the dial, and rotated it. After a second, he smirked and slammed down on the watch.

Ponyta and Growlithe flinched and shied away as a large flash of green light overtook the trainer. The light faded and the Fire-types looked back. Their eyes widened in shock upon finding a butterfree in Ash's place with a green symbol between its hands.

Ash fluttered happily, "So, what do you think?"

Ponyta stared in shock, "Wha-"

*flop*

Everyone looked over to see Growlithe unconscious on the ground. Pikachu laughed wildly.

Ponyta stared at the Puppy Pokémon, "Uh. Y'know what, Yvel with it." Ponyta looked down at Ash, "What in the name of Arceus just freaking happened?"

Soot snickered, "It's the watch he wears. It can turn him into Pokémon." 'Among other things.'

The Butterfly Pokémon nodded, "And it's the reason I can understand Pikachu and Clefairy."

Pikachu smirked, "Crazy, isn't it?"

Ponyta sweat dropped, "I'll say." She looked back at Ash, "So, this is your plan to get me to trust you?"

Ash chuckled and shrugged, "More or less. I just thinking that, if you won't trust me as a human," he held out a hand, "then how about trusting me as a fellow Pokémon? Even when I don't look like one."

Ponyta blinked in surprise before chuckling, "Not too bad." She smiled, "Alright, then. I guess we're temporary teammates."

Ash sighed in relief, "Good. I really didn't want to spend all night looking for a replacement."

Ponyta's eyes narrowed, "So, you were lying about that."

Ash shook his head, "No. I still would've done it if I failed. But I was really banking on this working."

Ponyta chuckled, "Fair enough." She raised a brow, "One thing, though. Could you actually understand me when you were human?"

Ash became somber and shook his head, "I'm afraid not. My watch puts a weird limit on the translation thing. I can only understand a few species when I'm human."

Pikachu nodded, "Namely Pokémon from the list of what he can turn into."

Clefairy smiled and put a hand on Pikachu's back, "Like us."

Ponyta raised a brow, "Huh." She looked back at Ash, "How do you get new forms?"

The Bug/Flying-type stared in surprise, "Well, a Pokémon just has to touch the watch and it catalogues their DNA."

Ponyta smiled, "Alright. I'll let you ride me under one condition. Let me touch the watch."

Ash's eyes widened on shock, "What?"

Ponyta nodded, "If we're going to be working together here, I'd rather you be able to understand me during the race." She raised a brow, "Do you have a problem with that?"

Ash sweat dropped, "Well-"

Soot snickered, "It's not that. He's just stubborn about letting Pokémon touch the watch."

Ash glared at Soot, "I am not stubborn! I just don't think-"

"that it's fair to have that kind of power." Soot interrupted in an annoyed tone, "I know dad. We've all heard it before."

Pikachu and Clefairy nodded, "Yup."

Soot continued, "And besides, you could stand to gain a Fire-type form."

Ash deadpanned, "I have Overheat."

Ponyta raised a brow, 'Overheat?'

Soot sweat dropped, "Yeah, because that'll be easier to explain in a public emergency. Admit it, we got off lucky in Celadon."

Ash was about to argued but stopped and groaned, "Fine." He slapped the symbol on his chest and reverted to human.

Ponyta stared in mild surprise, "Cool." She shook it off and tilted her head, "So, is there a certain way I have to touch it or-"

Soot smiled, "Nope. It'll work so long as it's a part of your body. A.k.a. not just the flames."

Ash grumbled and held out the watch to the Fire Horse Pokémon, "Just do it."

Ponyta chuckled and reached out to tap the face of the watch with her muzzle. The watch immediately turned yellow and started spinning.

Ponyta flinched and jumped back, "Woah!"

Soot snickered, "Don't worry. That just means that it's loading your DNA."

Ponyta calmed down but glared at Soot, "You couldn't have warned me about that earlier?"

The watch stopped spinning, turned green again, and a silhouette of a ponyta appeared on the face of it.

Ash sighed, "It's done."

Ponyta smiled, "So you can understand me now?"

Soot shook her head, "Not just yet. He can turn into a ponyta now, but the translation will take a while to upload. Best case, about a half hour. Worst case, tomorrow morning."

Ash shrugged, "Sorry."

Ponyta frowned before cocking her head downward; her version of shrugging, "Alright, fine. At least it'll be ready in time for the race."

Growlithe came to and shook his head, "Ugh. What the Yvel happened?"

Ash noticed and smirked, "This." He brought up the watch and slammed down on the face of it. The green light overtook him and faded to reveal Ash in the new ponyta form; the watch's symbol just below the base of his neck.

Ponyta blinked in surprise, "Woah." She smiled, "Nice."

Growlithe's jaw dropped as he looked back and forth between the Fire Horses.

Soot snickered and looked up at Ash, "So meema, how's the new form?"

Growlithe flinched and looked at the other dog in shock, "Meema?!" Ponyta blinked in surprise at the news.

Ash raised a hoof and a brow, "Uhh … unique. I've never really had an equine form before." Ash felt a pair of somethings jump onto him and looked back to see Pikachu and Clefairy on his back.

Clefairy looked at the flames under her feet in awe, "Woah." She smiled brightly, "That's so cool! It really doesn't burn at all!"

Pikachu looked down curiously and rubbed the fire, "It's not even hot." He smiled at Ash, "I guess that means you really trust us."

Ash smirked with a raised brow, "Of course. Why wouldn't I?"

.

*Back in the house

Unbeknownst to the group of Pokémon, Misty was watching the entire scene through the window. Brock and Lara sat at the table deep into a conversation about breeding techniques. This was partially to keep Lara from watching Ash change.

Misty blinked in surprise, 'Huh. Neat.'

.

*The next day; Big P. Race

A round of fireworks exploded in the sky as the crowd cheered.

Nuevo: Wait, what? Who set off fireworks in the daytime?

Ohirume: A lot of people.

Nuevo: For a massive, public event?

Seishin: Anime.

Ohirume: Although, there is such a thing as daytime fireworks. *Looks to the side* I'm serious. Look it up on YouTube. It's pretty cool.

Welcome, ladies and gentlemen to this year's Pokémon challenge sponsored by the Laramie Clan! Called out the announcer from over the loudspeaker, Our course takes our challengers over rugged terrain to test their speed and ability! Whoever clears all the obstacles and crosses the finish line first is our winner!

Ash took a deep breath to calm his nerves, "Here we go."

Ponyta glanced back at him with a smile, "Calm down. You'll be fine. I've done this tons of times before."

"Yeah. I'm sure it'll be fine, dad."

Ash chuckled, "Thanks, Soot." He stopped, jerked, and looked over to see Soot next to Ponyta with Pikachu on her back. Ash's eyes widened, "Wha- Soot?! Pikachu?! What Yvel are you two doing?!"

Soot smiled, "Running in the race."

Pikachu raised a paw with a smile, "And I'm the rider!"

Ash sweat dropped, "Guys, I really don't think that's how it works."

Ponyta jumped in; still looking back at him, "Actually, what they're doing isn't against rules at all."

Ash looked at the Fire-type in surprise, "Really?"

Ponyta nodded, "The rules only say that the rider has to be biped capable and quote-unquote runner has to travel on land. No flying, digging, or teleportation."

Ash blinked in surprise, "Wow. The Laramie Clan is a lot more inclusive than I thought."

Ponyta chuckled, "We try."

The announcer clenched a fist excitedly; unseen by the crowd, All Pokémon and riders please make your way to the starting line now!

Ponyta walked up to the starting line.

"Good luck, guys." Lara said from the stand … right next to Ash.

"You can do it!" Clefairy cheered from between Lara and Growlithe.

Ash smiled at the girls, "Thanks guys." He looked to his other side at the other competitors.

Next to Ash and Ponyta were, in the following order, Misty on Starmie, Brock on Onix, Pikachu on Soot, a guy in a light blue shirt on a tauros, a guy in a blue, striped shirt on a sandslash, a guy in a yellow shirt on a raticate, a girl (or possibly a guy with long-ish hair) in an orange shirt on a nidorina, Dario on Dodrio, a guy in a pink striped shirt on a rhyhorn, and a guy in white shirt balancing on an electrode.

Luke: *sweat drops* Uh.

Ohirume: Oh, please. Do you realize how few side characters received any name in the early anime?

Ash sweat dropped, 'Is he seriously riding an electrode?'

A red light at the top of the starlight lit up.

Ready!

All of the Pokémon and riders got into position.

The green light at the bottom lit up.

GO! The announcer shouted.

The racers took off from the starting line.

And they're off on this exciting Pokémon challenge race! When the dust settles, we'll be able to see who's in the early lead.

By this point, the contestants -most of them- were out of earshot of the announcer. The racers barreled down a wide dirt road.

"Yee Ha!" Dario called out as he pulled ahead of everyone.

Ash's eyes narrowed, 'Crag.' "We need to go fas-"

"Not a good idea." Ponyta argued; mid run, "We need to keep a steady pace, so I don't tire out too soon. This is a long race where stamina is going to be essential."

Ash blinked in surprise, "Understood."

Something glinting in the tall grass caught Ash's attention. He glanced over to see something small shoot at the tauros and hit them in the head.

Ash's eyes widened when he saw the Wild Bull Pokémon flinched and stop in their tracks, "Ponyta, go right!"

Ponyta didn't question it this time and complied. Brock, Misty, and Soot noticed and veered right as well.

"AHH!" Tauros cried out as they got on their hind legs. They charged ahead wildly with their eyes closed and struck Nidorina with a horn.

Ash glanced back with a frown as the Normal-type and Poison-type duked it out wildly; immediately taking them and their trainers out of the race.

Ash looked towards the grass and his eyes narrowed upon seeing a familiar red and blue haired pair poke out the grass with proud smiles; one of which holding a slingshot.

Ash clenched his teeth, 'Those guys.' He looked ahead with a glare and leaned closer to the Fire Horse's ears, "Someone's interfering with the race."

Ponyta's eyes widened, "What?!"

"Don't worry." Ash responded with a smirk, "I've dealt with them before. I'll keep a look out for possible traps. You focus on the race and be ready to dodge on command."

Ponyta frowned but nodded quickly, "Alright."

Soot raised a brow, 'Why am I feeling left out all of a sudden?'

.

*Back at the starting/finish line

Everyone watched on the monitor as the racers approached the next terrain.

The next obstacle is a forty-five-degree uphill climb! A test of endurance for the Pokémon and their trainers! And Dario still holds the lead!

True to the announcer's words, Dario was far ahead on the uphill climb. Everyone else followed steadily.

"Go Ash! Go! Go Pikachu! Go!" Clefairy cheered; unaware that they couldn't hear her.

The racers reached the apex and started their run downhill. This time-

Whoa! It looks like Electrode has taken the lead! Their perfectly round body is taking full advantage of this obstacle! But can its trainer keep their balance?!

Lara sweat dropped, 'Still better than Dario.'

Electrode and rider's fame were short-lived as a pothole opened up beneath them. The camera panned to show the pair trapped in a hole; Electrode's eyes in swirl.

Ah! And it's another accident!

Dario charged past the hole.

Electrode has fallen into a hole and Dodrio once again takes over the lead!, As the announcer said this, Brock and the rhyhorn rider made it past the hole as well.

Misty hurried past right as Electrode started glowing red.

Oh no! Electrode's voltage level is becoming too high! It looks like the bomb ball is about to blow!

The electric-type exploded violently as Ash and Ponyta, Sandslash, and Raticate made it to the hole. The three teams were thrown into the air from the blast.

Lara's eyes widened in shock, "Ash! Ponyt- huh?" Her fearful shock turned to surprised shock at what happened next.

Immediately after becoming airborne, Ash pushed at the back of the Fire-types head and flipped her forward in the air. The Fire Horse eyes widened in shock as this happened. Ash skidded to a halt with the horse cradled in his arms.

The other contestants weren't as lucky. Sandslash and Raticate were knocked out along with their riders. Electrode was completely knocked out with the rider twitching and covered in soot.

Entire audience stared at the screen in pure, slack jawed shock; everyone focused on Ash.

WOAH! It's looks like Lara's replacement has some serious muscle for someone his size!

Lara stared at the screen in shock, "H-how is he doin' that?"

.

*Back on the track

"How are you doing this?!" Ponyta asked as she stared at Ash in wide eyed shock.

Ash smirked, "Part of the watch." He flipped Ponyta back onto her hooves and put a hand on her back, "You alright?"

Ponyta blinked in surprise, "Uh, yeah. Just a little dazed. I've never been held upside down before."

Ash chuckled nervously, "Sorry."

"Nice one dad!" Soot shouted as she charged past the pair.

Ash smiled, jumped back onto Ponyta, and gripped the reins, "Let's go!"

Ponyta nodded, "Right!" She broke into a gallop back down the hill.

.

*Team Rocket

The tRio watched Ash's stunt in wide eyed shock. They also dropped their digging tools. They continued starring as he left the area.

Jessie sweat dropped, "Um. Wow."

James gulped, "We may have underestimated the Phantom more than we thought."

Meowth nodded; still dazed, "No kiddin'." He looked at the unconscious electrode, raticate, and rhyhorn and their trainers, "At least we got three more out."

.

*Back to the race … again

Everyone came up to a wide river with nothing but a trail of unevenly placed stone spanning it.

Dario's dodrio charged across the stones effortlessly.

Brock and the guy on the rhyhorn came up to the river next. Their Rock-types skid to a halt and stared at the water apprehensively.

Rhyhorn took a chance and jumped onto the nearest stone. Rhyhorn, his rider, and Onix stared in shock as the stone started sinking.

Brock grimaced and held out a hand, "Onix! Use Iron Tail and scoop them out!"

The Rock Snake caught on and his tail took on a metallic sheen. He plunged the metal-coated tail into the water, under the stone, and quickly pulled it out onto land. Rhyhorn fell to their stomach in relief.

The rider laid Spikes Pokémon's back in relief, "Oh man, that was close." He waved up at Brock, "Thank you sir!"

Brock gave a thumbs up, "No problem." He rubbed Onix's head with a smile, "Nice work, Onix. But I think we've gone far enough in this thing."

Onix sighed in relief.

Misty and Starmie, and Pikachu and Soot approached the obstacle. Starmie jumped onto the surface of the water. Misty jumped up to stand on the Water-type's back and surf across the river; ignoring the stones. Soot, on the paw, took the stone route and ran across with ease.

Misty waved back at Brock, "Don't worry, Brock! I'll keep on going!"

Pikachu waved to, "Pikachu!"

Ash and Ponyta continued running. The river soon came into the view.

Ash grimaced at the sight of the body of water, "We're heading towards a river! We might to find another way around!"

Ponyta smirked, "That's what you think!" He neared the stones, jumped onto them, and ran across them like it was nothing.

Ash blinked in surprise, "Wait, you're not-"

"Quiet!" Ponyta shouted as she kept her eyes on the land on the opposite side of the river, "This takes a lot of concentration for me!"

Ash sweat dropped, "Sorry."

The pair made it across without a hitch and caught up to Misty and Pikachu.

"Misty!" Ash called out; still looking ahead, "We have a problem!"

Misty nodded, "Yeah! Dario's still way ahead!"

Ash shook his head, "No! Well yes, that's a problem! But, that's not what I meant!" His eyes narrowed, "Team Rocket's messing with the race!"

Misty, Pikachu, and Soot's eyes widened while Starmie … 's gem brightened(?), "WHAT?!"

Ash nodded, "They agitated the tauros with a slingshot and I wouldn't be surprise if they dug that pit trap!"

Soot grimaced, "Crag!"

Pikachu clenched a fist, "The nerve of those three!"

Ponyta's eyes widened, "Wait, you know those people?!"

Ash sweat dropped, "I … said I did earlier!"

Ponyta blinked in surprise before deadpanned, "Oh yeah! Sorry!" She shook it off and glared at the Triple Bird Pokémon's rider in the distance, "Great! So now we have two nuisances to deal with!"

Ash smirked, "Well, don't worry! I have an idea on how to deal with one of them!"

Everyone, except Ponyta and Starmie, looked at him expectantly; waiting for his plan.

When it didn't come, Misty sweat dropped, "Are you gonna tell us what it is?!"

.

**Time Skip**

Ash and Misty made it over the edge of another downhill slope. This one was covered in carved platforms with various plates, bowls, and troughs filled with food. The Pokémon skidded down the slanted cliff.

Misty blinked in surprise, "Wait. What's with all the Pokémon food?"

"It's part of the challenge." Ponyta responded, "The runners have to choose and finish one of them before we're allowed to continue. It's a way to help replenish our energy for the final stretch."

Ash blinked in surprise, "Huh. The Laramie's really think of everything, don't they?" He translated the message to Misty.

Misty smirked, "Sounds good!" She pointed ahead, "And it's looks like Dario's having some trouble!"

Everyone looked ahead to see Dodrio fighting with itself about which bowl to go to and which would get to eat first. Dario was shouting at the three of them to knock it off.

"Hah!" Starmie called out, "Lucky break!"

Ponyta landed on a platform with a trough and started eating immediately. Starmie landed one platform down.

Ash and Misty glanced around apprehensively.

Dario glared at his self-arguing Normal/Flying-type angrily, "That tears it!" He looked up at one of the cliffs, "Team Rocket, time to go to work!"

Ash and Misty's eyes widened in shock, "What?!"

Black smoke started filling the area and taking out the cameras.

"Prepare for trouble!"

"And make it double!"

"To protect the world from devastation!"

"To unite all peoples within our nation!"

Misty groaned and pinched the bridge of her nose, "Freaking Yvel."

"To denounce the evils of truth and love!"

"To extend our reach to the stars above!"

"Jessie!"

"James!"

"Team Rocket, blast off at the speed of light!"

"Surrender now, or prepare to fight!"

"Meowth! Dat's right!" A glint came off Meowth's coin as he jumped down between his teammates. Weezing and Arbok were already out and next to their respective trainers.

Ponyta's eyes widened at the sight, "That shine!" She glared at the Kantonian Normal-type, "You're the one who made me throw off Lara!"

Ash sweat dropped with a deadpanned, "Of course it was him."

Misty looked at Ash in confusion, "Huh?"

Ash looked at her, "Apparently Meowth's the one who spooked Ponyta yesterday."

Misty's eyes widened before she glared up at the tRio, "So it was you who broke Lara's arm!" She turned to glare at Dario, "And your put them up to-" She stopped and stared in shock upon seeing nothing but a knocked over bowl and the food tumbling down the hill. Her eye twitched, "That slimy little-"

Ponyta grimaced and started eating faster.

Ash frowned but didn't stop her.

Jessie glared, "Hey! Pay attention to us!"

"Shut up!" Misty shouted at him before jumping off Starmie, "Ash, I'll handle them! You be ready to go as soon as Ponyta's done!"

Ash's eyes widened, "But, Mist-"

"Don't argue, Ash!" Misty responded; still glaring at Team Rocket, "You're the one who needs to win this for the Laramie Clan!"

Ash frowned but nodded, "Fine." He gripped the reins tighter and waited.

James laughed before pointing at her, "Oh please. Do you really think you'll be able to take on all five of us on your own?"

"Who said she was alone?"

The quintet flinched and turned around to find Soot and Pikachu behind.

Pikachu's cheeks sparked as he glared angrily.

Soot smiled innocently, "Hi"

Meowth grimaced, "What da- Where'd you come from?!"

Soot snickered, "Oh, please." She then smirked wickedly and shifted her eyes, "Look at who you're talking to."

"Go for it, Ash!" Pikachu called out, "We'll handle the buffoons!"

"What'd you jus' call us?!" Meowth shouted furiously.

Ash nodded and looked down at the Fire-type, "You ready, Ponyta?"

She raised her head and swallowed before glaring ahead, "Ready!" She jumped off the platform and ran down the hill.

Misty smiled, "Good luck, Ash!"

.

*Ash and Ponyta

The pair made it to the bottom of the hill shortly and shot forward.

Ash heard an explosion and glanced back to see Team Rocket disappeare into the sky.

Ash smirked, 'Nice work, guys.' He looked ahead again, "Let's win this thing!"

Ponyta smiled, "Agreed!"

They caught up to Dario momentarily. Dodrio was still moving quickly but was noticeably slower.

Ash smirked and spoke up, "Skipping the eating challenge! Not you're smartest move!"

Dario flinched, looked back, and grimaced upon seeing the pair, "Son of a glitch!" He glared ahead, "Dodrio! Tri Attack them!"

Dodrio's heads turned and curved to face Ponyta and they opened their beaks. A small ball of energy appeared in each mouth; one green, one indigo, and one red. A red triangle formed between them with the spheres marking the corners. The triangle turned indigo and the whole thing shot towards Ponyta.

Ash and Ponyta grimaced and the horse jumped to the side of dodge the attack. She landed with a skid before running again. Unfortunately, Dario shot far ahead of them in the confusion.

Dario laughed from ahead of them, "Hah! Later, loser!"

Ash glared at the cheater, "Hey! We can't use moves in this!"

"Actually, we can!" Ponyta responded before glaring at Dario, "But it's only supposed to be ones that can modify speed in some way! And we're not supposed to use them to interfere with our opponents!"

Ash looked at her; dumbfound, "Wait, seriously?! Why aren't we using one?!"

Ponyta frowned, "The only speed move I know is Flame Charge! And, unlike my natural flames, I can't modify those to-" She stopped talking and her eyes widened upon realizing who she was talking to. She grinned, "Think you can handle some heat?!"

Ash grinned and gripped the reins tighter, "With how much he's getting on my nerves, Easily!"

Ponyta raised a brow, "Wait, what?! What does that mean?!"

"Never mind!" Ash responded before crouching down, "Ponyta! Flame Charge!"

.

*Race stands

The lit back on the monitor to show Dario and Dodrio. Only Dario and Dodrio.

Yes! Now we've got our picture back and Dodrio is still in the lead!

The scene changed to show the cliffs that walled the eating challenge.

Now let's take a look at what happened to the other Pokémon! I can't see any- Wait! Who's that?!

Lara looked closer and her eyes widened upon seeing the screen.

Holy Yvel! Its Ponyta; barreling ahead with an intense Flame Charge! And Lara's replacement doesn't seem to be any worse for wear! Just who the Yvel is this guy?!

Clefairy's eyes lit up, "So cool!" 'I wonder if I can learn that.'

Lara stared in awe at the sight, "Unbelievable. That Ash," She smiled, "he never ceases to amaze."

I don't know how, but this has become a two Pokémon race between Dodrio and Ponyta with nothing left but a flat-out run to the finish line!

.

*Race

Dario heard galloping and looked back. He stared in shock upon seeing a giant fireball approach him, "WHAT THE?!"

The shroud of fire faded to reveal Ponyta and a completely unscathed Ash.

The trainer smirked, "What's up?!"

Dario gritted his teeth, "Dodrio! Another Tri-"

"You sure you wanna do that?!" Ash called out before pointing to the side.

Dario looked at where he pointed and found a Pidgeot with a small camera around their neck.

"Crag." The purple head muttered; realizing the cameras were back up.

Ash snickered, "Didn't think so! Flame Charge again!"

Ponyta shrouded herself and Ash in flames again and closed the gap effortlessly. The runners ran neck-and-neck.

Dario stared in shock, 'How is he doing that?! Those flames should hurt like a railroad spike in the foot!' His eyes narrowed, 'It doesn't matter. Just a little closer. Clooooseeeerrr.' His grinned wickedly, 'NOW!' "Do it, Dodrio!"

The head looked over at Ponyta and flinched at the seeing flames she was engulfed in.

"I said do it!"

The head frowned and pecked at Ponyta's eye.

"AH!" Ponyta cried out she shook her head and lost speed; Flame Charge dispelled.

The pecking head's three long feathers caught fire and they frantically tried to shake the flames away. The middle head stared in shock.

Ponyta snapped out of it and continued running. A shadow was covering her eyes.

Ash glared at Dario, "What the Yvel is wrong with-"

"You." Ponyta muttered angrily.

Ash stopped glaring and looked at her in surprise.

Fire-type glared at Dario furiously, "You hurt my partner. You make a mockery of our clan's celebrated race. You endanger everyone for your own selfish gain!"

Ash looked at her with a somber frown.

Ponyta continued glaring, "The day I let someone like you join our clan," Her eyes widened in rage, "IS THE DAY THE REVERSE WORLD FREEZES OVER!"

Faux: What? But the Reverse World has entire ice pilla-

Ohirume: Really not a good time, Faux!

Ponyta became shrouded in a white light and started to change in shape.

Ash's eyes widened in shock, "Ponyta."

.

*Race stands

Lara's eyes widened in awe, "She's-"

The light faded and Rapidash charged down the track with a determined glare.

Fans, this is incredible! Ponyta has evolved into Rapidash! One of the fastest sprinters in the world!

Lara started tearing up with a smile, "Pony- Rapidash. I'm so proud."

Clefairy pouted and crossed her arms, "Lucky."

Growlithe just stared at the screen in slack jawed shock.

The racers came into view in the distance. Rapidash and Dodrio barreled down the dirt road.

And Rapidash has caught up! They're neck and neck! Heading for the finish line!

They approached the gool- wha … goal line.

Ohirume: How the Yvel do you make a typo like that in an anime?! Seriously! You can't even blame that on a keyboard! It's drawn!

Seishin: T-riggered! ;P

IT'S DOWN TO THE WIRE!

The Fire Horse and Triple Bird Pokémon shot through the finish line. The monitor showed Rapidash shooting through first by a muzzle and paused for a split second for dramatic effect.

The crowd cheered and applauded wildly.

An incredible upset! Rapidash makes an amazing comeback to win this Pokémon challenge!

Ash sighed in relief, "Oh thank Arceus." He petted the horse, "You were amazing, Ponyt-" He chuckled, "Sorry, Rapidash."

Rapidash smiled, "Don't worry. Honestly, I'm still getting used to it too."

"You cheater!" Dario shouted, "You interfered with me!"

Ash stared at him shock, "Um. Wow." He glared at the boy, "Seriously, how few morals do you have?"

Dario clenched a fist, "I'll show you." He held out a hand, "Dodri-" He was by Rapidash Double back Kicking him in the gut and off Dodrio. The freak tumbled back along the ground and landed in a dazed heap.

Dodrio stared at their trainer in shock. They looked back to find Rapidash directly in front them and glaring murderously.

Rapidash spoke in a quiet, angry tone, "If I ever see any of your faces again," Her eyes narrowed, "Next time, I won't miss."

All three heads grimaced and nodded frantically, "Yes ma'am!" They shouted in surprising unison. They ran past Dario and into the distance.

Rapidash sighed, "I've been waiting the entire race to do that."

Ash chuckled nervously, "I bet you have."

"Rapidash!"

The pair looked over to see Lara running over to them with an overjoyed smile.

She ran over to Rapidash and threw her good arm around the horse's neck, "Rapidash. You actually evolved." She sniffled, "I'm so proud of you."

Rapidash smiled softly and nuzzled her; trying to mind the new horn.

Ash smiled softly and got down from the Fire-type quietly; not wanting to ruin the moment. That failed when Clefairy jumped into his chest.

"Augh!" Ash cried out before he caught the Fairy-type; causing Lara and Rapidash to look over. Ash sweat dropped, "Hey, Clefairy."

Clefairy looked up at him with a bright smile, "Ash! That race was so awesome!" She started rambling wildly about every single detail of the race without slowing down for even a second. Heck, she sped up a few times.

After a few minutes, she stopped, blinked, and looked around, "Wait, what happened to Pikachu and Soot?"

Ash sighed and pet her with soft smile, "They'll be back soon, I'm sure."

Rapidash chuckled. Lara looked up at the horse with a smile and hugged her tighter. Ash looked over and smiled softly.

.

*Awards Ceremony

Brock, Misty, Pikachu, and Soot had made it back to the line and stood off the side to applaud Ash, Lara, and Rapidash along with Clefairy and Growlithe. Clefairy and Pikachu stood on Soot's back. Starmie and Onix were returned earlier.

Ash helped Lara hold up a red flag with a pokéball and crown symbol as Rapidash stood behind them.

Congratulations, Ponyta- I mean Rapidash! You are this year's Pokémon challenge champion! Let's give a big hand for its trainer, Lara Laramie and for the winning rider, Ash Ketchum!

The humans and bipedal Pokémon applauded the group. Growlithe joined in barking and Soot by whistling loudly. That made them all flinch.

Ash took and planted the flag in the ground before smiling at the blue-haired girl, "Congratulation, Lara."

Lara smiled and held out a hand, "I should be the one congratulatin' you Ash. You were way above anythin' I could've expected."

Ash shook her hand and rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, "I mean, Rapidash was the one doing all the work. I just assisted where I could."

Rapidash looked at him; deadpanned, "Ash, you held me. I was a sixty-six-pound horse and you held me. I think that goes a few tiers above 'assisted.'"

Ash chuckled nervously, "Fair enough."

Lara blinked in surprise but shook it off and smiled.

.

*Sunset

Ash and co. stood opposite to Lara, Rapidash, Growlithe, and -for some reason- a tauros.

Lara smiled, "About a day's walk on this trail should lead you straight to the Safari Zone."

Ash smiled and nodded, "Thank you, Lara."

"'Preciate it" Soot said; mimicking Lara's accent.

Lara giggled before focusing on Ash, "Thanks again, Ash. You did a great job today."

Ash smiled softly, "Thanks. I was happy to help."

Lara reached behind herself, "One more thing." She held out her hand and opened it to reveal a rectangular purple pin with a large golden 'P' in the center. In the center of the 'P' was an upright fire symbol.

Ash took the pin and looked at it with a raised brow, "What is it?"

"The Laramie Clan's crest." Lara responded with a smile, "It proves you're an honorary member of ours and gives you total access to the entire ranch."

Ash's eyes widened, "Huh?"

Brock ran over and looked at the crest in awe. He smiled brightly, "Woah! I've never actually seen one up close!"

Ash frowned and held the pin back to her, "Thanks Lara. But I can't accept this. I was only running in your stead. I don't deserve it."

Lara chuckled and pushed his hand back, "I thought you might say that." She pointed at the crest, "Which is why I had your name engraved on the back of it. It won't work for anyone but you."

Ash blinked in surprise and flipped the pin over. It read 'Ashton Satoshi Ketchum' on the back. He sweat dropped, "How did you get my full name?"

Soot snickered, "Uh. Hello?"

Lara looked at her with a smile, "Thanks again, Soot." She looked back at Ash; still smiling, "So, that's that. We can't take it back even if we wanted."

Ash chuckled, "Fine." He opened his jacket -the side opposite to the badges- and clipped the crest in it. He closed the jacket and looked at Lara with a smile, "Thank you, Lara. Much obliged."

With that, Ash and co. turned to walk down the trail. Lara waved as they left. The group waved back as they left.

.

*Down the Road; Ash and friends

Brock looked at Ash with a smile, "So, you can turn into a ponyta now. Huh?"

Ash smiled and nodded, "Yeah." He looked down at the watch with a smile, "Flame Charge. Stomp. Double Kick. This is going to open up a lot off new training opportunities."

Misty smiled slyly, "Aaaand."

Ash raised a brow before putting a hand to his chin, "Um, I guess, this would increase how fast I can run, how higher my temperature can get, and-" He stopped and his eyes widened. He looked at Misty; deadpanned, "And now you're going to want regular horse rides, aren't you?"

Misty smirked and slung an arm across his back, "Look who caught on."

Soot snickered, "Sorry, dad. But you sort of brought this on yourself by showing Rapidash the watch."

Ash sweat dropped, "Great."

.

.

*sci-fi portal sound*

Mizuro: Phew. That was one **** of a workout.

Omega: I'll say.

Illavera: Hey, how'd it go?

Mizuro: *grin and guitar riff* Awesome!

Omega: *snickers* The entire city was a waste land when we left.

Illavera: *sweat drops* It's concerning that you can say that so casually.

Omega: That's only because it's Teen Titans Go.

Luke: Trust me. It's for the best.

Faux, Pike, and Laura: *nods*

Nuevo: *sweat drops* Yikes. That place must be worse that I imagined for you four to be okay with it.