Author's Note:
Here it is, the in-between chapter to give a gap between Pacifidlog and Sootopolis. We also get the reintroduction of a particular character whose gonna be around for a few chapters. Despite what you might think, this is primarily going to be a Serena focused chapter. After her adventures in the aqua & magma arc, she's been going through some stuff. We also get a battle, but not much else to say on that front, just I'm trying something I've done in the past where the POV is from an onlooker but usually only for a round or two in larger battles. This will be done when the battles not the main focus, which also means it won't take up as much space in terms of words, hence this being a shorter 'battle' chapter. I'm seeing how well I can make it work as I've got a couple league battles not focused on one of the main cast and felt a little off giving a POV to a character who hadn't previously got one. Oh, and we really get into the bases of a certain Pokémon's arc, I've hinted at it throughout their appearances but now we'll see it front and centre. Since we're in December, I want to point out to you that while I plan on doing the four chapters but because there are certain dates I want to hit, there won't be specific upload days per week. Expect to see the next chapter on the 10th for the anniversary of me starting this series. Without further ado, just remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter Seventy-Seven: Sawyer of the Seven Seas
Serena sat on the back of her Milotic as they travelled over the ocean to Sootopolis city. Salty sea water filled her senses as she glanced to the side. The three lads were riding on the back of Lapras just off to the side, with Snorunt positioned on the transport Pokémon's head. He was forming and firing ice beams off into the distance and while certainly in need of more work, their time on Pacifidlog really helped him hone the move.
Glancing upwards, she saw May's Altaria slightly higher, enjoying a flight with her trainer. For a brief second, a small smile formed on her lips before it fell back down. Closing her eyes, she deflated with a long breath. A numbing tingle spreading through her body.
For a brief second, her mind flashed forward to the impending showcase, but it couldn't stick for more than the moment. A single tear trickled down her cheek as she scrunched her hand together. Her mind flooding back to
She found herself back in the cavern of mount chimney. Her powers are flowing freely through the caves and tunnels under this volcano. Her mind reaches Courtney as she works with her team to move the rocket fuel. As she tried to speak, memories from the magma classes blocked her path. The purple haired girl was just insight as the entire thing went dark...
A manic laugh echoed before being drowned out by a large bang. She felt dust and rubble crumble onto her skin as the entire room shook. She felt the burning lava consume her flesh. Shooting back, she found herself back in the cavern with the ceiling collapsing down. Instinctively she threw up a shield.
"Laaaaaa!"
A loud cry from Ash's Lapras caused her to turned her attention back from her own thoughts. Straight ahead over the blue water, she noticed a small boat speeding towards them. Grabbing onto Milotic's head, she steered to the side as it came to a slowing stop in between them. It took her a second, but she recognized the two people as they emerged on the back.
"Mister Briney and Sawyer?" Ash asked, "what're you two doing here?"
"I just got my eighth badge from Sootopolis and now returning home before the league." Sawyer smiled.
"And I'm helping move supplies between the mainland and some of the islands, gotta help with everything going on," Mr Briney added, "I found this one trying to get a ride back and so offered a lift... to Slateport at least. Now what might you all be doing here?"
"We're heading to Sootopolis for a gym battle and showcase," Ash explained.
"Where did you catch a Lapras in Hoenn?" Sawyer asked.
"I didn't." Ash smiled, petting his water ice type on the head. "I met her a few years back in the orange archipelago. But she was just an infant back then. We could've just got boats during our water travels of Hoenn, but I knew she'd like the open waters. Right?"
"Laaaa!"
"Lapras be some of the most capable swimmers in the world, better than most every man-made boat," Mr Briney laughed. "Back in my youth I thought about finding one myself but alas it wasn't meant to be."
"So, you got all eight badges now, Sawyer?" Ash asked.
"Sure did!" He beamed, pulling out his case to show case all eight slots filled up.
"How would you like to battle then?!" He asked with a glint in his eye.
"There's an island not too far from here where we could dock." Mr Briney suggested.
"Don't you have somewhere to be?" Max asked.
"I'm hardly stuck on a strict schedule. It's not like I've got perishables or anything on board," he replied, "and it's always fun getting to see two skilled trainers putting their all into a battle! Which is why I'd like to offer my services of referee!"
"Then let's do it!" Sawyer declared. "We can discuss the terms on the way!"
Following the sea captain's lead, they set off through the waters making it to a small tropical island with a few palm trees although the floor was just an entire beach. While she heard the conversation on the ride over, she didn't really pay attention. Reaching the shore, they returned their Pokémon and created a small crowd on the beach as the two trainers took up spots on a makeshift field. With Mr Briney taking the spot as a referee.
"This will be a best of battle consisting of five rounds. Each trainer shall switch out between rounds and first to three victories will be declared the winner!" Mr Briney declared. "As the one to issue the challenge Ash shall pick first then we'll rotate between each round."
"I choose you, Snorunt!" He shouted, releasing his pure ice type onto the field. Her own ice ghost type popped out.
"What does he think he's doing?!" Froslass' mental voice echoed in her head. "My baby is too-"
"Relax." She interrupted. "Remember he's been training and Lapras has taught him a lot. Sooner or later, he needs to test himself. Let's just watch."
She folded her arms but remained floating by her side. Letting out a small sigh, she turned back to the pending battle and found Sawyer sending out his own Pokémon. Much to her surprise, it was a species she had on her team, but much bigger... and not the best match up against an ice type.
"A Shelgon?" Ash asked.
"We've been working hard on evolving him," Sawyer replied, "so now we're on less than favourable match ups to maximum efforts in battle."
"Then we're more than happy to help, right Snorunt?!" Ash declared.
"Snoooow!"
His snow hat Pokémon bounced up and down with a wide grin. She cast a glance to the side and noticed a softer smile on her ice ghost type. Letting out a low sigh, she turned back and just focused on the impeding battle... trying to not let the thought of mount Chimney invade her mind for a few minutes.
"Snorunt verses Shelgon!" Mr Briney declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Sawyer: Round One
She watched her boyfriend call out his first move. With a deep breath, the pure ice type launched an icy wind across the beach-field. Striking the dragon type head on, they didn't even try to avoid the blast. Wincing as frost gathered on the shelled body with gritted teeth.
Creating a sheet of ice over the field, Snorunt charged forward. Pointing his head down, he used the slippery surface to pick up speed.
Entering his own run, Sawyer's Shelgon countered with his own headbutt. The two collided and the pure ice type went flying back in the opposite direction.
With a deep breath, a stream of flames shot out of the endurance Pokémon. Melting the sheet of ice as it roared towards Snorunt.
"Double team!" Ash shouted.
Numerous copies of his snow hat Pokémon materialised all over the beach. While the flames passed harmlessly over the original. Halting his attack, the dragon type looked around as if trying to figure out which one was real. Each of the copies formed a sphere of ice and launched it into the dragon type.
Closing his eyes from the onslaught of attacks, Shelgon let out a loud roar. Spinning on the spot, he rapid fired a barrage of embers, hitting each copy.
"Protect!" Ash hollered.
A single Snorunt closed up and a green shield formed around his body. The embers hit the forcefield but harmlessly imploded on the outside.
Continuing to blast the shield with fire, he took off running over the beach. A bright blue ball of psychic energy covered the dragon's head.
Smashing through the project, Snorunt was sent flying from the zen headbutt. Spiralling through the air, he crashed down into the sand.
"Powder snow the field!" Ash shouted.
Pushing himself up, the ice type shook sand off his body. Letting out another blast of cold air, this time with snow instead of ice. Transforming the beach into a winter wonder land as piles of white fluff created a prison around Sawyer's endurance Pokémon.
Transforming his attack back into icy wind. Pillars of shard ice formed, strengthening the powdered element, creating tough terrain for Shelgon.
Snorunt, however, took off skating around the field. Easily moving at double or even triple his running speed.
As he skated around the icy beach, he formed balls of ice in front of his face. Launching them off, each struck a different side of the endurance opponent.
Despite being barraged with a flurry of super effective moves, Shelgon stood strong. A light flame flickered out his mouth, helping to counter the cold.
"We need to get up close Snorunt!" Ash hollered. "Get on his back!"
Continuing to skate around, he turned to face the dragon. Charging forward, he shot out a small blurt of snow. Using it as stairs, he climbed on the back.
Sawyer's pure dragon type started thrashing around but his movements were restricted. Her eyes widened as the world disappeared in a bright flash.
Her mind flashed back to mount chimney. She's stuck on the back of Courtney's Camerupt, and she is thrashing around. Holding on with everything she has, she tries to gain control over the rampaging beast. Her mother's voice echoed in her head as she fought the attempts to throw her off.
Blinking again, she found herself watching the battle once more. Picking up momentum, Shelgon slips on the icy floor as Snorunt holds tough.
"Now let's finish it!" Ash beamed, throwing his fist into the air. "Ice beam!"
A blue flash covered the snow hat Pokémon as the endurance Pokémon cried out. Some sort of blast echoed out.
Snorunt went flying and skidded across the ice on his face. Shelgon was revealed covered in ice but glowing bright white. His body began to change, and she pulled out her Pokédex. As the familiar red-winged dragon emerged in Shelgon's place, taking off into the air, she scanned the newly evolved Pokémon:
Salamence, The Dragon Pokémon. The final evolved form of Bagon. While basking in the joy of flight generally keeps this Pokémon in high spirits, Salamence turns into an uncontrollable menace if something angers it. Incredibly loyal, they will stick with a chosen trainer until death
Putting the device away, she noticed a strong stream of flames raining over the icy beach. Within a minute the entire ice and snow melted away.
"I'm forfeiting Snorunt!" Ash shouted.
The flames stopped and the large dragon stopped his move. Landing beside the green-haired boy, they watched Ash approach his pure ice type.
"Ash has declared his own Snorunt unable to battle and thus this round goes to Sawyer and Salamence!" Mr Briney declared. "For the start of the second round, Sawyer shall need to reveal his Pokémon first."
She watched as her boyfriend crouched over his pure ice type. Chancing a glance to the side, she saw her own Froslass on the verge of charging over but after a minute or so of them talking it over, he recalled the snow hat Pokémon back into his Pokéball.
"Ash would never leave a Pokémon in a battle where they'll lose without a reason," Serena told her snow land Pokémon, "he had a good chance against until the evolution and I'm sure the experience he received will only help him progress further."
"I've got half a mind to show that overgrown lizard-"
"Slow down, Froslass, they just took part in the battle that they all agreed too." She cut her ice ghost type off. "And I'm sure Snorunt would say the same thing. Just relax... do you want to keep watching the other matches or not?"
Not giving a verbal answer, she recalled herself and Serena relaxed. Even with the best of intentions, Froslass' overprotective nature has really hindered her son's development. She knows it's only done out of love but sometimes those are the ones you need to watch the most. Shaking her head, she refocused just in time for Sawyer's second Pokémon to materialise on the beach. A species she's all too familiar with thanks to Brock, she scanned with her dex once more:
Vigoroth, The Wild Monkey Pokémon. The evolved form of Slakoth. Vigoroth is simply incapable of remaining still. Even when it tries to sleep, the blood in its veins grows agitated, compelling this Pokémon to run wild throughout the jungle before it can settle down. However, they can be very friendly
"I'm guessing you went with a normal type to reduce the chances I'll have type effectiveness?" Ash asked, unclipping his own Pokémon. "Although it doesn't really matter because we'll make this a battle of raw power. I choose you, Swellow!"
In a flash of light his fully evolved normal flying type appeared on the beach. She sat in the shadow of the energised normal type and simply narrowed her eyes in his direction. The small gestured seemed enough to set him off, banging his paws against his chest. She turned back to squawk at Ash.
"I'm sorry Swellow, I didn't know Shelgon would evolve," he apologised, "and even if I did, I picked Snorunt already. You'll just need to wait."
"Everything alright Ash?" Sawyer asked.
"Yeah..." He let out a nervous chuckle whilst scratching the back of his head. "Swellow just really wants to battle a dragon. She got a little upset over not facing Salamence. We're all good though."
"This is the same Pokémon I saw in the Rustboro gym?" Sawyer asked. "The Taillow who took Roxanne's Armaldo?"
"Sure is." He smiled.
The female bird turned back to her opponent, and she couldn't help but notice the green haired boy swallow harder, taking an instinctive step back. The corner of her beak flicked up into a smirk as she rolled her wings back. Cracking her neck to the side as she prepared for the start of the battle.
"Swellow verses Vigoroth!" Mr Briney declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Sawyer: Round Two
She watched as the regional bird shot forward, her beak stabbing straight into Vigoroth's chest. Bringing her wings in, clapping either side of the wild monkey Pokémon, she followed through by whacking him in swift assault. A light blue aura of flying type energy outlined her body.
"We can't use any moves which might inflict a status condition like body slam because of guts!" Sawyer called out.
Letting out a grunt, his claws glew white and extended. Swiping away, Swellow hardly tried to dodge, continuing her acrobatics for maximum effect.
Bringing the hunters tools down on her back, the lack of support meant he knocked her down. She bounced off the sand from the blow, pushing back up.
"Get some air and set up work up!" Ash instructed.
While clearly annoyed, she didn't hesitate to bounce back into the air. Quickly moving away from the opponent, she picked up more height
A red outline surrounded her body as Vigoroth thrashed around on the sand. She pinched her lips as she tried to figure out Sawyer's plan. He certain knew the aerial advantage would be difficult for him to overcome but he's not even-
"Encore!" He cut her thoughts off.
A series of cries echoed out of the pure normal type. A light ring seemed to form around the sky-high regional bird as she turned around.
Diving down, her wings began to glow white... only to stop as a large claw came down on top of her body. Knocking her back into the sand.
Looming over her, the wild monkey Pokémon continued to slash, kick, and toss her around. Each time she tried to take off, she was caught by Vigoroth.
She bite down on her inner cheek as she watched the regional bird get tossed around. She's knew Swellow was holding out for the encore to end but she could be certain she'd last that long. From knowing Brock's, she knows how strong the species is and he's certainly not holding back.
"Rock tomb!" Sawyer hollered.
Slamming both claws down on the ground, four large rocks burst out of the ground. Enclosing around the two Pokémon, hiding them from sight.
From the sounds emitting from the inside rock prison, it sounded like Vigoroth continued where he finished. Thuds, grunts, and cries echoed out.
"Guess you're gonna call it there again, Ash!" Sawyer called out with the flicker of a smirk on his face.
"I wouldn't be so sure, Sawyer." Ash retorted. His hand tightened in a fist with his fingers turning white. Eyes fixed on the rock prison in the field.
"But Swellow is encored and trapped in there with-" His voice died as two steel-covered wings burst through the rock wall.
"Sorry but I think it's actually Vigoroth whose trapped in there with her," he replied, "not the other way around."
Heavy thuds echoed from the rock prison as the green-haired boy visibly shook in place. His entire body seemed on the verge of an earthquake as he shook, eyes darting around. Looking closely, she noticed his teeth sink into his bottom lip as cracks formed all over the rock prison.
Breaking apart, Swellow shot out with her talons clutched into Vigoroth's shoulders. She dragged him out and tossed him down in front of his trainer.
She landed back beside Ash as the pure normal type laid on the beach. While her feathers were slightly ruffled, she hardly seemed winded by the battle.
"Vigoroth is unable to continue." Mr Briney declared. "Making the winner's Ash and Swellow. Evening up the score and he'll pick first next round."
She smiled as Ash praised his normal flying type, whose cheeks dimpled slightly with her beak held high. Looking closely, she noticed a slight colouring of blood on her back feathers, presumably from Vigoroth's claws but she hardly seemed bothered. Offering her a thanks, Ash recalled her back into the Pokéball.
Across the field, she noticed Sawyer kneeling next to his normal type. He certainly had a smart plan to overcome Swellow's aggressive style, trapping her with work up before trapping her in an attempt to knock her out but he severely underestimated her endurance. Not surprising since her species isn't exactly known for such a thing. Seeing him recall his fallen partner, he returned to his original position on the makeshift beach field.
Looking back towards her boyfriend, she noticed a device already in his hand. She didn't even try to guess who he'd pick, other than Lapras as she's resting before the ocean travels continue, he could pick anyone... and picking first means Sawyer is likely to have the advantage regardless.
"I choose you, Seviper!" He hollered, tossing the device into the air. In a flash of light, his pure poison type landed on the field. The crumbled rock-pillar creating a mid-field stool, but it was hardly going to effect the battle going forward.
Hissing in a threatening way, her tail waved behind her. Eyes narrowed as she crouched low, like a predator ready to pounce onto her prey.
"Then I'll go with Camerupt!" Sawyer declared, holding out his own device. The fire ground type landed on the beach with a heavy thud. Standing tall and wide over the pure poison type with a stoic expression, slowly moving into position. She pulled out her Pokédex for a quick refresher on the fire ground type:
Camerupt, The Eruption Pokémon. The final evolved form of Numel. The humps on Camerupt's back are formed by a transformation of its bones. They sometimes blast out molten magma. This Pokémon apparently erupts often when it is enraged
Putting the device back down, she couldn't help but stare at Sawyer's choice. Her mind flashed back to the one she mounted back when trying to reach Courtney. Closing her eyes, she felt her lip quiver. With a deep breath, which hurt to pass her throat, she pushed it down. She can't let even just seeing a particular species bring her down like this. She should just focus on the impending battle and not on her failure at mount chimney.
"Seviper verses Camerupt!" Mr Briney declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Sawyer: Round Three
She watched the fire ground type rear up and slam his hooves down on the ground. Violent seismic shakes echoed out from the eruption Pokémon.
Seviper winced and let out a low hiss. Her eyes squeezed shut as their opponent took off in a large charge. A power barrier formed around the living volcano as thuds echoed with each leap. The shaking slowly settled as she peaked her eyes open.
"Stealth!" Ash shouted.
Letting out a thick black smoke from her mouth, the cloud consumed her body. Camerupt continued on his path, but a heavy echo sounded as he tripped.
Letting out an eruption of lava from his back humps, the haze was blown away. Revealing a hole on the ground behind the fire ground type.
Seviper was no-where to be seen as Sawyer's Pokémon stood back up. A black blur burst out of the ground and she her poison-filled fangs stabbed into their opponents side, causing him to cry out in pain. Using the opening, she constricted her long body around the eruption Pokémon.
Camerupt started thrashing around, sending mini-shaking across the ground as he tried to throw her off. Bashing into the reminiscence of the rock pillars.
Seviper slivered to stare straight into her prey's eyes. Two red beams shot out and static brought the fire ground type to grimace stop.
Raising up her dagger tail, it glew a bright purple colour. Slamming it down on his back, he cried out as she sunk her fangs in once more.
"Earth power on yourself!" Sawyer yelled.
Letting out a loud cry, cracks formed underneath the two Pokémon. Despite trying to sliver off, she wasn't quick enough. Fire and ground energy, similar to lava burst up and washed over the two opponents. The force blasted the serpent across the ground, on her side, covered in burn marks and soot.
Bright orange fire balls shot out and struck the pure poison type. Crying out in pain, a coat of fire consumed her body as she struggled back into a stance.
A stream of flames followed through, and she dived into the ground to dodge. Narrowly avoiding the flamethrower from Sawyer's eruption Pokémon.
Rearing back onto his legs, he slammed them down once more. A second earthquake echoed out across the beach.
Blowing Seviper out of the ground, the static consumed his body once more. She landed on her side, wincing from the continued earthquake.
"Try bulldoze to shield yourself like Torkoal!" Ash hollered.
Picking herself up, she grimaced from the blow. She closed her eyes, trying to concentrate on her own seismic attack.
A stream of flames shot over the field and knocked her back. Rolling in the sand, swirls replaced her eyes as the flames died down around her.
"Seviper is unable to battle!" Mr Briney declared. "Making Sawyer and his Camerupt the winners for this round, making the score one-to-two in his favour, which also means one more victory and he'll win the battle overall. They'll pick first next round!"
Serena frowned as the red light consumed and recalled her back into safety. She knew it was going to be a tough match up for her, both in terms of typing and just overall style. She tends to hunt less defensive mon so a massive Camerupt would be difficult for her to overcome in any scenario. Even if she came incredibly close with her usual stealth and disarming tactics. Letting out a low sigh, she watched as Camerupt also disappeared in a red light.
Ash seemed to be whispering something to his device before clipping it back to his belt. As he turned back to the field, a flash covered the materialisation of his next opponent. A very familiar Pokémon stood opposite him. She pulled out her Pokédex for a quick refresher:
Crawdaunt, The Rogue Pokémon. The final evolved form of Corphish. Crawdaunt has an extremely violent nature that compels it to challenge other living things to battle. Other life-forms refuse to live in ponds inhabited by this Pokémon, making them desolate places
Lowering the device, she watched as her boyfriend tossed his own Pokéball, "I choose you, Grovyle!"
In a flash of light, his wood gecko Pokémon landed with a narrowed gaze. The twig in his mouth twitched slightly. Cranking his neck, she remembered the relationship he tends to have with Ash's own Crawdaunt. Being more of a laid back and free spirit, he tends to get on the pure grass types nerves given his seriousness and dedication. Not to say they hate each other, just have very opposing personalities, and clash a lot as a result.
"Your Treecko from the Rustboro gym is still just a Grovyle?" Sawyer asked, in an unpleasant tone. It almost reminded her of Paul back in Kanto or Johto.
"Gro." His low tone showed he felt insulted by the question. Turning back, he walked over to Ash and planted his twig into the ground. Cranking his neck either side, he did similar with his knuckles, walking back over the beach into his original starting position.
"There's nothing just about Grovyle." Ash warned. "And evolution isn't everything, Sawyer. My Meganium, back when she was still a Bayleaf, beat a Meganium in a one-on-one battle. Evolution is just one part of what makes up a Pokémon but that's not everything. Some Pokémon never even want to evolve but that doesn't mean they're limited in battle. Every Pokémon can be strong if given the chance."
She took a deep breath as she watched the water dark type move into a better stance. Snapping his claws in a threatening manner but the wood gecko barely moved, just tightening his fists with a slight twitch of his scrunched nose. A strong wind blew across the field, slightly disturbing the sand beneath.
"Grovyle verses Crawdaunt!" Mr Briney declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Sawyer: Round Four
Serena watched a series of yellow bullet seeds fire out of the grass types mouth. Charging off from his spot with incredible speed, he circled around the rogue Pokémon. Continuing his barrage of long ranged attacks, his opponent hardened with a shimmer over his body, blocking the onslaught of attacks.
The moment his attack ended; two duel high-powered beams of bubbles shot out. Trailing behind the wood gecko Pokémon, he used his speed to dodge.
She couldn't help but notice that Grovyle seemed to be running in a pattern. Without trees to weave or gain height, he fell into a routine in his run.
Closing off one of his beams, the other one continued to pursue Grovyle. Re-aiming his closed claws, he relaunched his second bubble beam.
Striking straight into Ash's Pokémon's chest, he was knocked back. Performing a back flip, he skidded to a stop in the grass.
A shimmer covered his body, and he changed forward. Both his arm leaf's glew bright green, taking on a scythe shape. Weaving through the duel bubble beams, he closed in with every second. She felt her lips curl up into a smile as her heart thumped harder.
"X-Scissor!" Sawyer yelled.
Raising both the claws up, he took the leaf blade head on. Wincing through the hit, his own claws glew with lighter green, creating an x shape.
Knocking the wood gecko back. He threw himself forward, continuing to whack a way with numerous bug type moves.
"Fall back but keep up your leaf blades!" Ash shouted.
Dropping onto the ground and rolling to the side, he took off in another speedy exit. Creating distance between himself and Crawdaunt, sand kicked up as he ran circles around the rogue Pokémon. The green glimmer of his arm leaves shone through the sand trail.
Crawdaunt closed his eyes and waved his claws around, like some sort of martial artist. A red outline surrounded his body as he performed swords dance.
"Now I want you to try to toss the energy in your arms!" Ash's voice raised.
Leaping up off the ground, he spun around with the blades creating a ring around his body. Slowing down, he trusted one arm out, landing with a thud.
A green beam of energy shot out and travelled across the ground... fizzling out before it reached the water dark type.
Two bubble beams struck his chest, knocking him onto his back. Leaving him open as Crawdaunt charged in, another x-scissor covering his body.
Spinning on his back, his head leaf slapped into the rogue Pokémon's side. Using the momentum to get back onto his feet, he took off once more.
"Fury cutter!" He hollered.
Extending both arms to the side, the arm blades extended once more. He turned and charged in. Both of his fists glew with a lighter green glow.
Crawdaunt's claws spewed with water, both of them crossing over his head. The two of them crashed together and each Pokémon went ahead to clash move for move. Water splashed off as the grass type used his height to force his opponent back.
Swiping his head down, his head leaf swept underneath. Tripping the water dark type over, he delivered a powerful punch to the face.
With the rogue Pokémon in the air, his arm leaf's extended out with a green glow. Bringing it up across his body, the two went high into the air.
Grabbing either side of the red-shelled opponent, he spun and tossed him down into the beach. Landing on one knee with a fist in the ground.
A cloud of sand covered his opponent. Settling down, Crawdaunt was revealed on his back with swirls replacing his eyes.
"Crawdaunt is unable to battle!" Mr Briney declared. "Making Ash and Grovyle the winners for this round, making the score evened up at two points a side so the next round shall determine the victor. Ash shall also need to reveal his Pokémon first once again!"
She closed her eyes and let out a low sigh. Only a second of relaxation past before her mind travelled back to the situation in mountain chimney. Her friends are trapped under the rubble, and she can barely move. Darkness consumed her mind as the connection to the purple haired girl was lost...
Opening her eyes, she found herself back on the beach and Sawyer had already recalled his fallen Crawdaunt. She tried to give a soft smile at the sight of Ash kneeling beside Grovyle, as he picked his twig back up. Checking on his well-being, her boyfriend thanked and recalled the wood gecko.
"Your Grovyle sure was stronger than I expecting," he called out, holding a Pokéball in his hand, "after experiencing my own for so long, I thought I'd have you cornered but I guess not."
"Every Pokémon is different, even those of the same species!" Ash called back, taking out his own final Pokémon. "You can't really judge one based on another. Now what do you say to getting this second match underway? I choose you, Gardevoir!"
In a flash of light, his fully evolved psychic fair type materialised, flaring her arms out to the side, she narrowed her gaze across the field. Reaching up she fiddled with the mega stone slightly which sat nicely inside a necklace around her neck. A thin chain held it together as the marbel was embedded inside a heart shaped piece. The two of them found it on one of the shops on Pacifidlog.
"Sorry Gardevoir but we won't be using it this time," Ash called out. The embrace Pokémon frowned, letting her necklace go before taking up a stance.
Out of all their Pokémon, she's been the most enthusiastic about mastering mega evolution. Reaching to her belt, she pulled of her own Pokéball and let her own psychic fairy type out. She smiled down at him, wondering if he'll be as invested in the process once he evolves.
"You wanna watch your sisters battle?" she asked, as he looked up expectantly. Giving a small nod, he jumped up and sat on her, facing the pending battle.
"Then I'll go with you, Sceptile!" Sawyer tossed his own Pokéball, releasing his fully evolved grass type. While smaller than Drake's, he still stood tall, even slightly taller than Gardevoir herself. Arms were out in a defensive stance, and he lowered slightly. She pulled out her Pokédex for a quick refresher:
Sceptile, The Forest Pokémon. The final evolved form of Treecko. The leaves growing on Sceptile's body are very sharp edged. This Pokémon is very agile—it leaps all over the branches of trees and jumps on its foe from above or behind
"I'm guessing this is the same Treecko you received way back in Littleroot, right?" Ash asked as she put her device away.
"Right!" He nodded. "He's my strongest Pokémon so we're not taking any risks with your Gardevoir!"
She let out a small smile at the declaration, with mega evolution she has really become the ace of Ash's Hoenn team. Swellow might be brute force and Torkoal a wise mentor, but she seems to take the certain qualities from each to round out his team. Kinda like Milotic on her own team.
"Gardevoir verses Sceptile!" Mr Briney declared. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash verses Sawyer: Round Five
Serena watched as both Pokémon spun on the spot. Razor sharp leaves with a multicoloured outline shot across the field and clashed in the middle. Neither side seemed to have an advantage over the others as they matched leaf for leaf.
A glowing green-turquoise ball of grass type energy formed in Sceptile's hands. Thrusting it forward, hit sailed over the magical leaves.
He raised his arms to block the incoming magical leaves which Gardevoir continued. Ending her spin, a wave of ESP deflected the energy ball to the side.
Holding her own hands together. She formed her own sphere of pink fairy type energy. Just like her opponent, she thrusted it forward into the grass type.
The blades on his arms extended out with glowing grass type energy, taking a scythe shape. Running forward, he spun and sliced the moon blast in half.
Landing next to Gardevoir, she performed a sidestep to avoid the next leaf blade. Each entered a sort of rhythmic dance as he continued to try and strike her with the physical grass type move. Always keeping just one step out of reach. He might have superior speed but he's less light on his feet as well.
His leaf blades faded and his tightened fists glew with bug type energy. Continuing his attempted assault, Sceptile became increasingly infuriated.
Reaching out with one hand, she tapped his head. Flooding him with ESP. His eyes grew heavy and within seconds fell onto the floor, fast asleep.
"Alright now Dream Eater!" Ash hollered.
She clasped her hands together and took a deep breath. Turning to face her trainer, she gave a simple shake of the head, with some sort of explanation.
Dropping down onto the sand, she took up a meditative pose. A psychic aura radiated off her, reminding Serena of her own Medicham. If she were to guess, she'd say Gardevoir found attacking a sleeping opponent unhonourable... which is exactly why she doesn't use teleport in battle either.
Her boyfriend pinched the bridge of his nose and turned to the side. She could understand his frustration, but she hoped they could make amends quickly.
Sceptile stirred and slowly pushed himself up. Growling angrily as he shook his head, he pounced towards the psychic fairy type.
Floating just above the ground with closed eyes, she swept to the side. Her opponent landed and spun, still on all fours, pouncing once more.
As she repeated her own dodge, his tail came around and crashed into her. Sending the embrace Pokémon flying, she crashed onto her side.
His body glew with a light blue flame of flying type energy. Leaping after her, he struck with the first shot of acrobatics as he flew over her.
Pushing herself up, her eyes burst open with ESP. He came back from behind, his acrobatics still surrounding his body. A wave of psychic energy blew out.
Knocking Sceptile back, he spun in the air. Landing on his two feet, he skidded to a stop. Using his tail to help with the slowdown.
Gardevoir stood back up and turned to face her opponent once more. Both of them took up a stance, panting heavily as their eyes narrowed.
Charging forward once more, his arm blades extended out in scythes once more. His speed picking up with each step.
A wall of bright lights formed in front of her, flashing into his face. Causing him to pause and blink from the dazzling gleam, she used the opportunity to move further away. A mystic light covering her body. Relishing in the recover, she once again reached for her mega stone in the necklace.
"I told you we can't use it here!" He called out.
Visibly rolling her eyes, she turned away and refocused on her opponent. Spreading her arms out, balls of ESP formed around her.
Shooting out towards the forest Pokémon, he took off in a sprint. They homed in, as if locked on his body. Just like with Grovyle previously, he lacked the environment to take advantage of his agility and couldn't force them into nearby objects. Using his tail, he knocked any that got close into the beach.
As a second wave of psyshock approached, he reactivated his leaf blades. Turning to charge head on, he spun through the air, slicing through them each.
Quickly facing Gardevoir, she had a third wave already forming. He took off in the blink of an eye.
Pulling her hands in front of her, she redirected her energy into a moonblast. The pink sphere barely left her fingertips as the grass type reappeared.
Ducking to the side, he narrowly avoided the fairy move. Bringing his second arm up, she skilfully side-stepped to dodge the move.
Bringing both of her hands up, a bright wall formed in between them. Beams of fairy type energy shot out, knocking him back.
Amongst the bright light, she noticed a glimpse of ESP in Gardevoir's eyes. With a deep breath, she let out the powerful soundwave.
Smashing through her own dazzling gleam, it blew Sceptile back. Spinning through the air, he rolled on the ground. Unmoving as Sawyer ran over.
"Sceptile is unable to-" Gardevoir let out a loud cry and cut the sea captain off. Turning to face her, she closed her eyes, radiating with a pink light. The same light radiated around the grass type, and he slowly pushed himself back up. Grunting and panting as he returned to his feet. "Battle continue!"
Flicking his wrists out to the side, a green flame flew off his body. The blades on his arms extended out, much further than before.
"What's going on?" May asked.
"Overgrow," Brock muttered, "Gardevoir might've healed him but not by much... I think she wants to test herself against him on the ability boost."
Their attention was forced back to the battle. Sceptile charged forward, his enhanced leaf blades sticking out.
Raising her hands, another wall of lights formed in front of her. Shooting out with fairy type energy, his scythes pierced through the dazzling gleam.
Stabbing into her chest, he flexed his arms to the side. Knocking her down onto the ground as the sparkles fizzled out around him. Swinging his tail around, it knocked her over through the dirt. Weakly pushing herself up, she held a hand up and a pink sphere began to form. She shot it out towards him.
Taking off in a quick blur. A couple yellow bullet seeds shot through the moonblast and caused it to implode. Sceptile was no-where to be seen.
As she struggled back up to her feet, another barrage of bullet seeds shot out. Sand kicked up and none lasted for more than a few seconds.
Crossing her arms over her body, she squeezed her eyes shut. A wave of ESP formed around her, expanding out and blowing across the make-shift field.
"Gar Gardevoir!" She cried out, clutching her mega stone necklace in one hand.
"No Gardevoir! We can't use mega evolution!" He called out.
"Gardev!" She cried back.
A blur shot past, slicing her with another leaf blade. Spinning in the sand dust, she crippled over, coughing from the blow.
"Gardevoir!"
"You need to focus and stop focusing on going mega!" He called out. "Recover and set up a psychic shield!"
Her eyes burst with ESP and a wave of psychic energy shot out, creating a dome around her. A mystic glow covered her body as she stood back up.
Breaking through the psychic shield, Sceptile's fists were glowing with bug type energy. He landed next to her and swiftly hit her with a barrage of fury cutter.
Bright balls of ESP emerged out of the sky, shooting down from the sky. The future sight erupted around them, knocking Sceptile back and giving her space as she finished her recover. Serena's eyes widened, seeing the orbs on forest Pokémon's back glow bright white, collecting solar energy.
"He's preparing for a solar beam!" He hollered. "Light screen and prepare for a big blast!"
She watched as the psychic fairy type surrounded herself in a golden cube. Turing to his opponent, she noticed Sawyer stood behind his starter with a smirk.
Sceptile ran forward and his leaf's extended out once more. Expanding further than before, he lept up and slammed down on one knee. She used her dex:
Move: Solar blade has the user transfer solar energy into a single powerful strike. Usually takes time to build up but strong sun increases it
A pure white slash of solar energy shot across the beach, throwing sand aside. It sliced through the light screen.
Sending the embrace Pokémon flying, she crashed on her side. Swirls replaced her eyes as Sceptile fell back into a sitting position, panting heavily.
"Gardevoir is unable to battle!" Mr Briney declared. "Making the winners of this battler Sawyer and Sceptile!"
Serena stood up as she watched the two trainers embrace their respective Pokémon. Letting out a low sigh, she turned and started walking away, leaving her Kirlia to see his sister. The battle was a nice distraction, but she just couldn't handle everything. Closing her eyes, she set off across the beach.
Her mind flashed back to the entire mount chimney. As it replayed in front of her eyes, she thought about flooding her head with ESP earlier. Maybe taking control of her body and forcing her out. She could've-
"It's beautiful."
"Huh?" She opened her eyes to find herself on the edge of the beach overlooking the ocean. Off in the distance she noticed a large white mountain sticking out of the water. The cool ocean water washed up over her feet. Turning to the side, she found Mr Briney stood with Wingull on his shoulder.
"Your friends are worried about you... they wanted to come talk but none of them are particular sure what to say." He offered a sympathetic smile. "Wanna tell me what's going on? Sometimes the best way to work through a problem is just to talk it out."
"It's..." She paused, sighing. "In the disasters... I tried to help someone but... they didn't make it."
"A lot of lives were lost during those events... it was unlike anything Hoenn's seen since the days of old," he replied, "I'm guessing you was close to this person?"
"No, actually," she replied, "we only met a handful of times... I should've seen earlier that she needed help... it might've been different if-"
"In this life, we try to save as many people as we can." Mr Briney turned to watch the sky. "Sometimes that doesn't mean everyone. And we need to learn to live with it because if we can't... the next time duty calls, maybe no-body will end up saved."
"How am I meant to live with that?" she asked.
"It's different for everyone so I can't answer that for you," he replied, "but for me... I like to look forward. You don't forget the person you lost but use their memory as motivation to push yourself harder. Then next time someone needs your help, you won't fall again. Come on, let's go back before we're missed."
Nodding, she followed the sailor back across the beach. It didn't take them long to reach the others and she found them having a friendly conversation, re-joining the group, they each gave a friendly greeting.
"Alright lad, we should set off again," Mr Briney told Sawyer, "this was fun but we've still got to get to Slateport."
"Actually sir, I'm joining my friends," he replied, "Ash said I could watch his last gym match... I hope you don't mind."
"Aye, it's fine kid." He laughed. "Ya need to do what you need to do. Best of luck to ya'll!"
They moved to the edge of the water as the sea captain climbed into his boat. Letting out their Pokémon once more, they climbed on with Sawyer using his newly evolved Salamence to travel. As they set off from the island, she couldn't help but smile as Mr Briney's boat took off in another direction.
Turning to look at the sky, she closed her eyes. Unlike every other times she been alone with her thoughts recently, her mind went further back as Mr Briney's words echoed in her head. She thought back to the silver conference and the performance training she did with none other than Aria.
"You know, this has been really great!" She panted as her team gathered around her. Sweat flooded down her forehead after practising the routine for hours in the day. A towel was thrown across the room and she caught it. Wiping herself down, she found the Kalos queen stood in front of her, holding a bottle of water which she gladly accepted. "Thanks."
"You've got a great stage presence, Serena, I'm sure you'll do great in the Hoenn showcases." She smiled. "You just need to remember to smile."
"Huh?" She slowly lowered the bottle, quirking an eyebrow up to the girl.
"If I could give you one bit of advice is to always keep smiling," she replied, taking a seat on the stage, "a showcase queen is the heart of a regions next generation of young girls. Even if they end up taking on the league or contests or something else entirely."
"But why a strong smile?" she asked.
"A smile is not just an expression of your joy; but it also helps spread happiness. In that sense, if you smile well, you are making this world a better place to live in. Imagine, if all the people you met each day would smile. How great would be the sense of happiness it brings to all," she explained, "you never know who needs that smile or when. As someone in a position such as showcase queen in the spotlight, you need to be that beacon for your region."
Opening her eyes, she found herself still staring up to the sky, a small smile flickered on her lips. She thought back to Courtney, she clearly had a bad influence in Maxie and the rest of team magma. Maybe if she had a role model to look up to, someone to smile and help guide her down the right path. Things would've been different. Letting out a low sigh, she felt more motivated than ever to win this showcase and the master class... to stop another case like Courtney.
She might've lost time in preparing for the showcase, but they've still got a couple weeks until the event, so she'll be more than prepared and she's got just the partner to win this with. Her thoughts got interrupted the large white mountain came into view, being their exact destination.
The Pokémon moved closer together and swam, or flew, through the large hole in the side of the hollowed-out marvel. She couldn't help but gush at the sight of the marbel white city. Coloured by luscious green trees and bushes, with man-made streams of water flowing throughout. Looking up to the top, she noticed the contest hall sitting on the top part, overlooking the city, as the presumed gym was located down by the water's surface.
Making their way to one side of the land, they climbed off their Pokémon and recalled them all. Following her boyfriend's lead through the city, they soon found their way to the Pokémon centre. Walking up to the desk where Nurse Joy stood with a smile on her face.
"Welcome to the Sootopolis Pokémon centre." She greeted. "How can I help you today?"
"We'd like to book some rooms and Serena's here to register for the showcase," he explained, "four to be precise. And could you also look after our Pokémon, I've got a gym battle to win."
"I'd be glad to get you the rooms and registrar for the showcase. And of course, look after your teams," she replied, a Chansey pulling some key-cards off the hook board on the back. "But I'm afraid the gym is closed right now. The leaders off helping rescue and relocation on the smaller islands between here, Mossdeep and Pacifidlog. While we have the outer shell to protect from that horrible storm, some islands aren't as lucky."
"Alright." he nodded. "Erm. I don't want to sound rude, but did he mention when he'll return? I get its important what he's doing but we'll need to change plans if its past the showcase or-"
"Hehehe, it's alright," the nurse chuckled lightly. Seeing her boyfriends flustered state caused her to giggle too. "He's only got a handful to check upon and assured me he'd be back for the showcase at the latest. So, he'll be able to better answer any challenges or questions you have from then, he's also asked me to keep track of anyone whose come looking for a challenge."
"So, there's already some trainer's in front of me?" he asked.
"While several have turned up, none are currently here," she replied, "they left and claimed they'd come back once he returns. As long as you stay here, you'll be the first in cue. Speaking off, here are your room keys. And I'll just need to take your showcase pass to registrar for the competition."
Nodding with a smile, she pulled out the item and handed it over. Helping pick up the keys from the desk, she turned and started handing them out to her friends. Once she was done, she turned back to find the nurse with her card. With a word of thanks, she took the item back. Turning around, the group made their way into the corner of the lobby. Unlike Pacifidlog, this place seemed relatively empty. Like they were isolated from the devastating storms.
"Sorry guys, I didn't know the gym leader left," Sawyer apologised, "I had my battle weeks ago but ended up stuck here because the main ferries were cancelled. He must've left sometime after then before I met Mr Briney."
"It's alright," Ash replied, "after all, we need to be here for Serena's showcase anyway and this means I get more time for planning my team and training."
"Sounds like a plan!" Max jumped up. "Please say I can help?! After how much I helped May, I really want to help plan a gym match!"
"Of course!" He smirked. "What about you, Serena?"
"I'm gonna check out the performance hall," she replied.
"You alright?" he asked.
"Best I've felt in a while," she replied honestly.
Taking off, she quickly left the building and started following the signs up to the top building, she couldn't help but gush at the white blocks which made up the city. It gave off a really artsy feel, like a sculpture crafted out of the vacant volcano itself. It didn't take her lot to reach the building but someone else was already waiting with a large Venusaur stood beside her. She smiled softly at the sight of her friend and rival.
"Hey Shauna!"
The brunette turned to face her with a wide smile. "Serena!"
Closing the gap, the two of them embraced each other in a quick hug, barely two seconds long before pulling back. She couldn't help the smile forming on her face as she watched the fully evolved grass type walk up behind her friend. Offering him a smile, she refocused on fellow performer in front of her.
"Guess you're here for the showcase too?" she asked.
"Of course!" She tightened her hand into a fist. "It's our last chance to enter the master class! Same for you too, huh?"
"Yeah," she replied, taking a deep breath. Closing her eyes, she relaxed before refocusing on the rival. "You know... since there's only one princess key left, it means only one of us will be making it through to the master class."
"And Lisia will be waiting for us." Shauna uttered. Shaking her head, the smile returned to her face. Thrusting her hand out, it burst open. "Which just means whoever wins this one will decide the first Hoenn showcase queen! Right?!"
"Right!" She slapped her own open hand into hers and the two tightly gripped into a fierce handshake . "So, what're you doing up here, anyway? Did you also want to check out the stadium beforehand?"
"I did but I'm also here because of the announcement," she replied. Quirking an eyebrow up, she pinched her lips together, "you do know about it?"
"Nope." She shook her head for emphasis. "We only just made it to the city. What announcement?"
"Palermo is meant to be making another announcement about the final showcase," she replied, "or maybe something to do with the master class."
"Maybe." She nodded in agreement.
The two of them fell into a casual conversation, talking about what's happened since the last time. Serena made sure to skip over the events of the disastrous day, not feeling the need to share those particular experiences. She also learnt both Trevor and Tierno were helping out back on the mainland, having been in Mauville on that day. Shauna only travelled over for the showcase otherwise she'd probably still be with them.
"And now the head of the showcase committee has a special announcement." A traditional announcers voice echoed over the plaza.
Both of them turned to the screen over the entrance to the performance hall as it turned on. It showed the image of Palermo sat at some sort of desk in a fancy looking room. Her hands were linked together, resting on the desk as her scowl seemed to be judging through the transmission.
"Afternoon. As I'm sure many of you are aware by now, many of the showcases this season in Hoenn have been cancelled due to unforeseen events. Our thoughts goes out to those who are still suffering in the aftermath. Last week, I announced during a Pacifidlog contest that we'll only be holding one more showcase in Sootopolis city, the date for which is on your screens. I'd now like to announce the themed performance. It'll be a showcase of cookery and performance where each performer, along with one of their Pokémon shall cook something for the judges. Myself shall be joined by two others for this event and we'll be looking for not only teamwork, but a stylish performance and the final product will be judged on taste, presentation, and everything in between. I also want to make it clear, due to time restraints; we'll only be permitting the five best candidates through to the performance round."
The screen faded to black as an eerie silence filled the area. Serena tried to swallow but her mouth went dry. Eyes darted around before landing on Shauna.
Locking eyes with the younger girl, neither uttered a word. Everything else just disappeared. As if this entire thing just turned real and not some far off event.
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. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...