I was really tempted to just have Ash quote Eric Cantona's 'seagulls' quote in this chapter (you'll know where) but I couldn't stop laughing at the thought and my missus called me an idiot, so I didn't.
Chapter 43-
That evening Ash watched back the video of his match with Nia as it had finally been put onto his trainer profile. The match was a great one for the neutrals, but Ash saw several mistakes that he made during the course of the battle. The Clefables Metronome strats had severely thrown him off his game and he was very lucky that it used Explosion, or it would have possibly gone down to the wire between them. For all his training he hadn't mastered going against such unconventional strategies and that frustrated him. Nia lost the match; Ash didn't win it. And it irritated him.
Delia had been about to go to bed when she looked in on Ash watching his match on the big TV that he was streaming from his computer. She was so proud of him; he had achieved something not even his father did. And yet he didn't look happy about it. Knocking on his door she walked in and sat on his bed next to him and observed the battle between Pikachu and Clefable. Picking up his remote Ash rewound it to the beginning and watched it again.
"That's really got to you, hasn't it?" Delia said watching the TV camera pan to Ash who looked confused "that's the only time I've seen you look out of ideas in a battle."
Turning the TV off Ash looked at his mum and said "it's the only time I've felt baffled by the entire situation. I had no answer for her strategy, none. I've been up against it before, but we managed to win that one because we were faster and stronger. But against Nia? I'd no idea what to do. Every move that was called forth was one of great power which her Pokémon could back up, not only that but we had no counter except to dodge. It's not good enough."
"Ash, you won." Delia said.
"No, I didn't mum" Ash said looking back at the screen, the battle imprinted on his vision "Nia lost and there's a big difference. We got lucky."
"Sometimes you need a bit of luck Ash" Delia said.
"I can't rely on luck mum because against better and tougher opposition I would have lost." Ash said running a hand across his face.
Pausing in silence Delia wondered what to say when a memory came across her mind. "Have you ever watched your dad's championship match?"
"No, I haven't." Ash said confused "why?"
"Can you get it onto the big screen?" Delia asked.
Nodding Ash climbed off the bed and went over to his computer and typed in his dad's profile. He had only been on this a few times but as he was scrolling down, he was amazed by how many battles he had been in. Scrolling back up to the top he found it and clicked on it. Walking back over to his bed he sat down and turned the TV back on.
"Don't start it yet" Delia said, "I'll be back in a minute."
"I wonder what this is about Pi" Ash murmured.
"We'll find out won't we." He replied.
A minute later Delia came back in with two cups of tea and some biscuits and sat down with Ash to watch it. "You can press play now."
Doing so Ash and his mum watched his dads most famous battle, the one that won him the title of Pokémon League Champion against Blue. Ash was mesmerised by the way his dad fought, the way he commanded his Pokémon who seemed to have absolute trust in him and carried out every attack. Blue was just as good though and he could see why they were rivals. Gary could learn a lot by watching this Ash mused. Soon it was the final battle, starter vs starter which would decide the match.
"Here it comes" Delia murmured causing Ash to focus more on what she was talking about. For the life of him though he had no idea what she wanted him to see, and the battle ended with a brutal Seismic Toss. "Did you see it?"
"No" Ash said pausing looking at his mum confused. Grabbing the remote she rewound it back a few minutes to a specific spot and pressed play. It was Blue commanding his Blastoise to use Hydro Pump at Reds Charizard who was flying straight at him and had no way of moving out of the way. And then Ash saw it, Blastoise hesitated. Grabbing the remote he rewound it back a few seconds and pressed play. He didn't imagine it, Blastoise flinched. But from what?
"How?" Ash asked.
"It happened in the previous battle." Delia said "your father used a certain move called Spikes. You saw Blue use moves to get rid of them by destroying the battlefield with moves like Earthquake from his Golem and Hurricane from his Pidgeot but they can never guarantee they all go away. Red knew that Blastoise had a weakness in its right foot, it still plagues him to this day. It was a birth defect that causes a random spasm in his toes when he's been on his feet for too long. Now during the battle, a spike had gotten lodged in its foot and when he stepped forward to use the move Blue commanded it triggered the spasm causing the flinch and let your fathers Charizard to be able to get closer than he should have done.
Your father and Blue had forgotten about it because of the fog of battle but it gave Charizard the opportunity to grab Blastoise and finish the battle. Charizard should have lost that battle, Blastoise is deadly accurate with his water moves and Charizard wouldn't have been able to get out of the way in time. A rare mistake on your father's part yet a mistake all the same. And he still won. Luck won him that battle Ash. It took Red a long time to come to terms with winning his Championship by a stroke of luck. He even asked Blue if he wanted a rematch but Blue declined. He had achieved what he wanted by becoming Champion. That's always been enough for Blue."
"I see what you're saying mum" Ash said, "luck will sometimes be a factor in a battle, and I just have to get over myself and accept it?"
"Partly" she said laughing at his terminology "Luck will always be a factor somewhere along the way. Getting lucky today may mean your opponent gets lucky tomorrow. Fate is a wonderful unpredictable thing. But I've found you make your own luck. Your father used Spikes and it gave him the opportunity to win. Without that who knows. He created his own luck, Ash. You got lucky with Clefable that is true, but you also found a way to combat her strategy when you paralysed her Pokémon. Eventually paralysis would have taken hold and you would have been free to attack and not dodge, that's why you used that move isn't it?"
"Yeah" Ash said nodding "that was my hope."
"The strategy she used was highly effective but incredibly unpredictable. You won, she lost." Delia said standing up "why does it bother you so much anyway?"
"I had no idea how to combat it mum" Ash said shrugging his shoulders "that's all. And I thought I won by getting lucky."
"Ah ok. Well goodnight, Ash" Delia said closing the door. On the other side though she heard Pikachu ask, "why didn't you tell her?" and she stopped unsure on if she should listen in or not.
"Because I'm not sure myself Pi" she heard Ash reply "the way the battle unfolded was my main reason, but there's just something about Nia I can't get my brain around. Particularly after the chat in the park. It's left me feeling very confused."
"You should talk to your mother" Pikachu said "after all she went through the same thing with your dad. And that time is drawing ever closer."
"Yeah, but Nia?" Ash asked, "I don't even know her."
"Then message her" Pikachu said as if it was obvious.
"I'll think about it" Ash said "it's late. We need to go to sleep. Night Pi"
As she heard the lamp click off Delia walked away feeling a little concerned. What conversation did he have with his last opponent? And why had it had such a big impact on him? Maybe it was time to play detective again.
Over the next few days Delia pondered on what to do. Should she ask Ash? Should she get in touch with this Nia girl and ask her what went on? Did she have the right to interfere like that? Ash may act mature the majority of the time, but he was still only 12 years old, and she was his mother after all. Making a decision she left and headed to the main league building and waited in line to speak to the receptionist.
"Hi" Delia said, "my names Delia Ketchum, I'm Ash Ketchum's mother."
"Oh, hi Mrs Ketchum" the receptionist replied. "What can I do for you?"
"I'm not sure if you can help me but I wanted to try anyway" Delia said "My son would like to get in touch with his last opponent Nia to speak to her about something, but she left before he could speak to her. I was wondering if you had any contact information for her that I can pass on to him?"
"I'm not sure I can do that" the receptionist said looking unsure "it's confidential information after all."
"Oh, I know" Delia said smiling at her "that's why I didn't think you could help me. But I thought I'd ask anyway."
Looking around to see if anyone was watching the receptionist typed in Nias name and came up with a contact number and room number in the hotel she was staying in. "Please don't tell anyone. This is where she's staying. Please come up with a different excuse when you see her."
"Thank you very much" Delia said quietly putting the slip into her pocket "you've been incredibly helpful. I'm sorry you couldn't find the information I was after" she finished loudly before walking away. Taking a seat in a nearby café she had a glance at the slip of paper. It was only a short walk away, so she finished her cup of tea and headed off to the hotel. Walking in she spoke to the receptionist for directions and soon enough she was standing in front of Nias door. Taking a deep breath, she knocked and waited. Instead of Nia though an older woman, possibly her own age answered the door who looked like a grown-up version of Nia.
"Hello?" she said uncertainly "can I help you?"
"Hello" Delia said "my name is Delia Ketchum. I was wondering if I could speak to Nia for a moment."
"Ketchum?" she asked as she nodded and let Delia in "I'm Sarah, Nias mum. You're the boys mum then? The one Nia has been gushing over the last few days?"
"Mum!" Nia said walking into the kitchenette area looking mortified "do you have to embarrass me all the time?"
"Yes" she said simply while smiling "it's my right as your mother."
"She's right dear" Delia said smiling at the girl "when you have your own kids, you'll do the same thing."
"So, what can we do for you Mrs Ketchum?" her mum asked.
"Delia please" Delia replied "I'm not sure I should be here to be honest, but I'm concerned about my son. There are a few reasons. I overheard a conversation last night that I don't think I should have done that concerns your daughter. He was fixated over your match all evening. To the point I was getting fed up with him replaying it. But afterwards I helped him come to terms with how he won. He wasn't happy that he felt he won by being lucky that your Clefable took itself out."
"But that was my mistake" Nia said looking confused "it was my order that resulted in the loss."
"I know" Delia said, "and so does Ash, but he felt he cheated you out of a possible win."
"I wouldn't have won" Nia said shaking her head "some people are just born to be incredible at what they do. Ash is in that class. I did my best but came up short. I have no regrets."
"You are very wise" Delia said "now onto my other reason and the part I wasn't meant to overhear. Can you tell me about your conversation with him? I didn't know he had met up with you beforehand. Usually, he stays away from people the day before a battle."
"Oh" Nia said frowning "it wasn't anything serious, at least I don't think it was. I just explained to him why I'd bought his book and the impact it had on me. That's all."
"Nia" Sarah said warningly "you know that's not all it was."
"Fine" Nia said sighing and looking up at Delia "we're from Saffron City."
"Ah" Delia said interrupting "and I take it you were there when he got rid of Sabrina."
"Do not mention that witch's name" Sarah said viciously "I apologise but for months afterwards Nia was a shell of herself. It was only after a conversation we had that she told me she felt violated by what Sabrina had done to her and was questioning her own mind. In the aftermath of what happened friend turned on friend, family turned on family because they didn't know who to trust anymore if they couldn't trust their own minds. When Ash's book was released 95% of Saffron queued up to get it. Your sons book literally healed a city Delia and that's not an exaggeration. I've only just got my daughter back from what that witch did."
"Oh" Delia said, "and you told him this?"
"No" Nia said "I tried to, but I couldn't find the right words in a way that would make him understand. It was a passing couple who had relatives in Saffron who overheard what I said and corroborated how big of an impact he had on the lives of the people of Saffron. The league challenge has provided a nice distraction from my own mind and Ash's book with the instructions on how to keep your mind your own has been an incredible help to me. I wanted to meet him from the moment he left Saffron to thank him and I'm glad I did."
"Show her the book Nia, particularly the inscription" Sarah said smirking.
Sighing Nia went to her room and came back with the book. Delia opened it up and read what Ash had written. Holding a smirk, she handed it back to her. Delia looked at Nia searchingly which slightly unnerved her. After a few minutes she said "I can see why he's puzzled. As assured as he usually is there are just some things he fails at miserably. And there's others he cannot do anything about. I feel this is both of those. Don't worry, it's nothing that you can do anything about." Making a decision she took out her notebook and wrote her address and number on it along with Ash's "here, should you ever be in the area or wish to chat please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you for clearing things up."
"It's ok" Nia said sweetly "I'm glad I could help."
Standing up Delia walked to the door with Sarah behind her. As she walked through Sarah stopped her "what's going on?" she asked quietly.
"It may be nothing, but I think Ash has found his future wife in Nia." Delia said holding her hand up to stall any retort "I'll send you a book to your reception desk so you can better understand his situation. I'm not saying he has, just that he may have. When you read the chapter in the book that I'll highlight for you you'll know what I mean."
"She's 14" her mum said looking into the room making sure Nia wasn't listening. "she's much too young for such things."
"Age doesn't matter to an aura user like Ash" Delia said "Usually their Aura waits until they're 16 before they begin to search for their destined life companion. Ash is different though from normal Aura users. Please, read the book and if you have any questions don't hesitate to ring me. Just because he may have found her doesn't mean she has no choice in the matter. She does. I won't tell Ash until I'm more certain, it's up to you if you want to inform Nia, you're her mother but I'd hold off on it until you've read the book."
"Ok" Sarah said looking slightly more relieved that her daughter wasn't going to get married tomorrow "thank you. It was nice meeting you."
"Same to you" Delia said smiling "let Nia know we'll be rooting for her Saturday and that you're both welcome to join me in the Champions box Sunday for Ash's match."
"I will" Sarah said as she walked back in and closed the door behind her.
Nodding and smiling to herself Delia went about her day slightly happier that she'd received what she was looking for. She had no idea how she'd tell Ash though. Maybe this was one of those situations where she didn't have to, his own Aura would let him know after all. Walking back into the Chalet she saw Ash sat watching TV. "Ash, can I borrow Charizard please? I left something at home that I need to get, and it can't wait as it was supposed to be sent off a few days ago."
"Erm sure mum" he said as he walked into his room and handed over his Pokémon to her "here, take Blastoise and Sylveon too, don't forget Silver has you as a priority for kidnap. Have a safe flight. Judging from the time you'll likely be back here tomorrow afternoon?"
"I will" Delia said putting on a jumper, flying wasn't a warm experience after all. "I'll see you tomorrow" walking back out she released Charizard and he looked at her confused. That was until she explained she needed to go home to pick something up. Nodding he lay flat so she could climb on and soon enough they were wending their way back to Pallet Town.
Ash would be lying if he said he slept well that night. His mother was alone, and he knew if Team Rocket found out she might be targeted. Waking up the next day Ash spent longer than usual training to burn off his nervous energy. Around noon as he was fixing up some dinner, he heard the door go to his chalet and breathed out a sigh of relief when his mother walked back into the room. Hugging her he fixed her a bowl and they sat in silence.
"Was your errand successful?" Ash asked curious.
"It was" Delia said "I managed to deliver it in time. Charizard was an enormous help."
"Good" Ash said "I've been meaning to ask you, how are you doing after seeing Dad the other night? Are you ok?"
"I'm doing ok" she said smiling at her son's concern "it was nice to see him again, even if it was on the TV."
"We have a similar battle style, don't we?" Ash said chuckling "it was only watching him that I realised it."
"You do but that's because you have a similar outlook on Pokémon training as a whole" Delia replied.
"Gary could do with watching that match" Ash observed "Blue was incredible."
"There's a reason he's still champion a decade later" Delia said wryly "you would do well not to underestimate him. Red was his biggest rival for a reason Ash."
"I know" he said, "I can see how foolish it was to think I'd win the league and then just beat him without trying."
"You were blinded by ambition to find out any information about Red" Delia said, "and while that's not always a bad thing I fear it would have hurt you if he had beaten you."
"I still believe he knows something" Ash said, "I just don't know what."
"I have doubts myself, but we may never know" Delia replied as she gathered their dishes and washed them "Oh, before I forget. I happened to bump into that girl you faced in the last match and her mother today. Nia, was it? Anyway, they seem like really nice people, and I may have invited them to join me in the finalist's family box on Sunday. I hope you don't mind?"
"You invited Nia and her mum to sit with you?" Ash asked confused blinking.
"Yes" Delia said simply.
"Ok" Ash said uncertainly "I've never met her mum and I've only met Nia twice so…"
"Then that's sorted then" Delia said pottering off leaving Ash confused.
"Your mum is up to something" Pikachu said looking at where Delia had left.
"So, it wasn't just me then?" Ash asked, "I thought I was imagining things."
"Nope" Pikachu said, "do you think she's trying to set you up?"
"I dunno" Ash said suddenly feeling panicked "is she?"
"I've no idea Ash" Pikachu said laughing "don't forget, she could be your future wife."
"Arse" Ash said calming down as he left Pikachu laughing on the counter to go and sulk in front of the TV.
Later that evening Joanne walked in with Karl and sat down at the counter facing Ash. "Now, we've just received word that tomorrow you're due to have a press conference in front of the media about your upcoming battle and all that entails. So, we're going to go over what questions they may ask and what your response would be. Remember, you don't just represent the Ketchum family but the Silph one too."
"I'm aware" Ash said irritated "but if I get asked a stupid question I will respond in kind."
"Yeah, well you can't" Jo said all business "this final is not just about you. What you say or do tomorrow will reflect on everything and everyone that's helped you reach this stage."
"And yet it's my mum, Sam, myself and my Pokémon that have got me here" Ash said looking straight at her "Silph did not participate in my battles, my Pokémon did. Silph did not sit up with me late at night on my journey, my Pokémon and my mum did. I'm starting to get the impression that Silph think they've done more for me than they actually have. Do not forget that I would have reached this point with or without them." He said standing up and leaving Jo to sigh and shake her head.
"He's right" Karl said making her look up at him sharply "I love you very much Joanne, but Silph haven't really done anything for Ash yet apart from help with his books. You've coached him on interviews but that's something he would have figured out eventually anyway, his clothes have been destroyed by the artist that was originally sent and then he was then forced to wear it in a battle humiliating him and then got an earful for suggesting the artist was wrong. Silph has not been on his journey with him. They appeared to reap the benefits as soon as he appeared at the league."
Joanne just looked at him angrily, gathered up the papers and stormed out leaving Karl to shake his head.
"Rule number one" Delia's voice shouted from in the lounge "always back your girlfriend first. Even if she's wrong."
Chuckling Karl stood up and made his way to the nearest flower shop. It seemed he had some grovelling to do.
The next day Ash and Pikachu went for a wander to get some lunch. The interview was scheduled for 3pm in the leagues main conference centre so they had plenty of time. Despite his blow up at Joanne Ash knew that her heart was in the right place. How he conducted himself in an interview reflected on how good she was at her job, so he understood that. It still irked him that they thought they could control him. At 2:30 he made his way to the league and walked into the reception where he was quickly ushered into the side room where John was being coached by someone about the upcoming interview. Ash just sat down and grabbed a magazine and began to read ignoring the chatter around him. This was all nonsense to him, and he'd be glad when it was over with.
At 2:55 John and himself were led into the media room where Charles and Blue were already seated. Taking his offered chair Ash sat down and waited silently for the thing to begin.
"Hello all" Charles said smiling "I'm glad you all could make it. Today is the traditional media interview session where you get to ask our finalists their thoughts on the upcoming event. As John is the returning participant, he will answer the first question and we'll alternate from there, so without further ado can we have our first question?"
"Yes, John how are you feeling now you've reached the final?"
"Happy" he said "we reached our target goal of making the final four. Anything after that was a bonus."
"Ash, how do you feel?"
"The same really" Ash said "our goal was the final eight given we are rookies in this tournament. I knew we had the potential to reach the final though."
"Can you tell us anything about the gameplan for the final?"
"No" John said.
"Ditto" Ash said before he could be asked "daft question really. Every advantage counts in a final."
"You certainly have that" John murmured looking up at the ceiling but was easily picked up by the microphone.
"What did he mean by that?"
"No idea" Ash said shaking his head even though he suspected what the issue was. Was John really going to pull the same stunt twice, this time in front of the National media?
"It couldn't be because it is rumoured that you have two legendaries on your roster, would it?"
"Who says I have legendaries?" Ash asked looking confused.
"We can't reveal our source Mr Ketchum."
"But how would you know that?" Ash asked leaning forward looking interested "the only people privy to that information would be the people I'm facing or faced, the Elite Four, Champion and President. Now I know Richie wouldn't have said anything, neither would Nia so that leaves my opponent in the final and the people in charge."
"It was not us" Blue said leaning forwards looking sternly at the reporter.
"Again, we can't reveal our sources."
"Of course, you can't" Ash said leaning back "but I can start an investigation which I will do. I already have my suspicions though."
"So, you DO have legendaries? How is that fair to John?"
"I never said that" Ash replied.
"It's not" John said leaning forward "I lodged a formal protest, but it was ignored."
"No, it wasn't ignored" Ash said before Charles could "both Lance and Mr Goodshow acknowledged your protest in front of the others at the last 16 meeting. We came up with a solution and you recanted your protest."
"Banning me from using my strongest Pokémon was not a fair deal" he said furiously.
"And yet it's precisely what you planned to do to me" Ash said smirking.
"It gives you a clear advantage over anyone else and is very unfair" John said angrily.
"As I said then either be a better trainer and come up with a strategy or go home" Ash said leaning back looking smug.
"As you can see this tournament has been rigged in Ash's favour" John said to the crowd, "it smacks of nepotism."
"How?" Ash said looking confused leaning forwards again "my father went missing over a decade ago fighting Team Rocket, so his influence has been precisely zero. Blue has his own son to favour and has never once trained me in any way. I got here on merit by beating the eight strongest gyms in Kanto, without using Legendaries I might add. I met Mr Goodshow about two months ago and haven't talked to him in person outside of the draws since so his influence has been exactly nil. I have also beaten every opponent on the way to the final without using said alleged Legendaries so, I ask again, how?"
John just sat there in furious silence while Ash shook his head. "As you can see the conspiracy is all inside his own head. But I will be interested to find out where you got your information though" he finished looking at the reporter.
"Yes, as would we" Blue said leaning forward "but can we get back onto talking about the battle at hand?"
"No" John said standing up and looking at Ash "bring those two legendaries. It will make my victory all the sweeter when I show the world how pathetic you really are."
In response Ash took out his Pokedex and pressed a few buttons and held it against the microphone.
"My name is Dexter, and I am the Pokedex for Junior Professor Ash Ketchum. Accessing database. Trainer Ash Ketchum, ID number AK191298 Collective Battles 994 Wins 993, Losses 1"
"As you can see, I'm here on merit" Ash said standing up and looking straight at him "The one loss wasn't even a battle, more of a test by the gym leader to show me what can be possible with the right training so since I left Pewter City 14 months ago I have yet to lose. And I certainly won't lose to you." Ash then sat back down and faced the silent reporters as John stormed off leaving Blue and Charles to shake their head at his unprofessional attitude.
"Why does he have such a problem with you?"
"I faced him once before nearly a year ago now at the tournament in Vermillion City." Ash said "and he lost because he forgot about the limit on moves used. Ever since then he has accused me of being lucky or cheating despite it not being my fault he couldn't count properly. He's a victim in his mind. It's quite sad really and I'd pity him if he wasn't such an arsehole."
"I have one last question" someone said from the back "who do you think will win the third-place playoff tomorrow?"
"I watched Ashley fight John yesterday, and she was very unlucky not to win" Ash said "Johns Dragonair is very strong, but my battle with Nia was the best battle I've ever had so I'm torn between the two. I know this though, whoever wins it will deserve it as the final four have been outstanding and any of us could be sitting here right now. I'm fortunate enough to have won. If I had to pick, I'd say Nia, simply because I've battled her, and I haven't battled Ashley. I'd love to be given the chance though."
"And that about wraps this one up folks" Charles said, "rest assured the final two battles will be great contests and I wish them all the luck in the world."
Leaving to the side room again he sat back down on the couch waiting to be debriefed. John it seemed had already left before he got back but Ash really wasn't concerned. An angry opponent was an unpredictable opponent, but it also made for quick decisions that could cost you a battle.
"You, ok?" Blue asked sitting opposite him.
"Yeah" Ash said "really, I am. John has just made this battle easier because I'm already inside his head. I know not to underestimate him as he got here on merit, but he overestimates himself. And that's his weakness."
"You could be right" Blue said looking over his shoulder at Charles who was just coming back in.
"Well, that was thoroughly unprofessional of John" Charles said irritated "well done Ash for keeping your temper in check. He made the battle Sunday slightly easier wouldn't you say Blue?"
"I would" he said agreeing "but as Ash just said he did get here on merit and would be a worthy winner."
Charles simply grunted as he put his notes back in his briefcase. "I'll be glad for Monday to come around" he said running a hand over his suddenly tired looking face "this is always exhausting, and we have to do it all again in Johto in two months' time. I've been considering getting an assistant or partner to take over day to day running of the league. I'm getting too old for this."
"Do you have anyone in mind?" Blue asked.
"Yes, there's a new developer that's currently set up his own tournament in conjunction with the league" Charles said "His names Scott. He created the Battle Frontier."
"Oh, I met Brandon back in Granpa Canyon" Ash said recalling him "he mentioned the Battle Frontier as he's the final person to go through before you're eligible for the tournament. It seems fun."
"Aye that's him" Charles said "he funded the entire thing himself, comes from old money and has easily recouped what he stumped up. So, there's him. I have another in mind too but I'm not sure about him yet."
"It's Giovanni, isn't it?" Ash asked surprising Blue and making Charles chuckle.
"Yes, it is" Charles said "despite his association with Team Rocket he's been incredible at promoting the league. And by rights he should have replaced me years ago as he had many wonderful ideas that I've used, with his permission of course that has helped make this the most competitive league. Not the best as they all have their qualities but the standard this year has been fantastic."
"Once we reached the final 16 that is" Blue said ruefully "before then it was bad."
"Isn't that the truth" Charles said standing up "anyway gents, I have a meeting to go to. Blue I'll see you Sunday for the ceremony, Ash, I'll see you there for the presentation trophy whichever one it is."
"Yeah, I have to be going too" Blue said, "date with Laura tonight."
"I have a date with my Pokémon" Ash said laughing and leaving with Blue before separating. When he reached his chalet, he walked in and found Joanne and his mum chatting at the counter. Ignoring them he went to his room and did nothing but research for his next paper. He was writing about legendaries and their mating habits for Professor Oak.
The next day flew by and soon Ash was sat in the stands ready for Nias match. Sitting down next to his mum and someone his mum seemed to know he watched the procession and leaned forward when Nia came out of the tunnel looking determined.
"She looks confident" Ash said, "it's a shame she couldn't reach the final."
"And face you instead of John?" the lady asked.
Looking at her he had the strange feeling he had seen her before. "You look familiar, but I don't know where I'd have seen you. But anyway yes, she's been fantastic in this tournament. I kept an eye on who could face me and apart from Richie and John there was only Nia that I felt could possibly reach the final. It was just their bad luck they were drawn in my bracket."
"So, you've been watching Nia, eh?" his mum said almost too casually.
"Yes" Ash said giving her a look that said he knew what she was doing "she's very gifted when it comes to battling. I just hope she keeps her head this time."
"What do you mean?" the lady asked.
"Against me she had a great strategy that had me beat" Ash said shocking her "she was unlucky that her Clefable took herself out, but she also took out Pikachu. I struggled to come up with a counter for her strategy. Pikachu was the one Pokémon I had that she feared because of her Vaporeon but with him out of the battle and despite going into the half losing she should have at least forced me to my final Pokémon. Two of my final three were at a disadvantage to her Vaporeon because of its ice and water moves but I never needed them because she came out from the break full of doubts. She was relying on Clefable acting as a sweeper and when she wasn't available lost her head. She called out silly commands that I exploited and got caught out. She has a Venusaur so she should know how to counter them. She forgot because she doubted herself and that's why she lost. She'll hopefully have learned from that though."
Around him people were listening in to his conversation and many nodded along having been there for the match and seen what Ash was saying. Sarah listened with interest at his analysis. It came across as cold and calculated but it was more clinical. He told facts and backed them up with reasons. Watching on they listened as the referee gave out the instructions and the competitors walked to their respective box. When half time reached Nia was up three-nil but had two heavily weakened Pokémon.
"She's doing very well" Delia said "I can see why you'd think she deserved to get to the final. Three-nil up at halfway is very good."
"She's three-two up" Ash corrected her to the surprise of the crowd around them who had been listening to his running commentary throughout the battle. "The scoreboard is deceiving. It may say three-nil but the two Pokémon she's used have taken serious damage and a fresh Pokémon could easily take them out with the right strategy. That's the mindset she needs to have and cover it accordingly."
"I see what you mean" Sarah said, "do you think she'll win?"
"Yes" Ash said simply watching as Ashley and Nia came back onto the field "as long as she keeps her head. Oh, Clefable is a good choice here, particularly against Ashleys Kadabra. If she beats Kadabra I can't see her losing."
"And there we have it folks. After a gruelling match the winner of the third-place trophy goes to Nia!"
"Excuse me" Sarah said looking very happy "I'll speak to you soon Delia. Nice meeting you Ash."
"Bye" Ash said looking confused as the lady left down the steps and disappeared into the walkway "she seemed like a nice lady. How do you two know each other?"
"Ash" Delia said laughing "I only met her Thursday. But you're right, she is a lovely person. I believe you know her daughter."
"Do I?" Ash asked confused. Delia merely pointed to the field where Nia had sprinted to the lady in question and hugged her causing Ash to choke on air "she's Nia's mum? And you let me ramble on in front of her."
Laughing Delia pulled a spluttering Ash out of the chair and made their way out of the stadium. Delia had booked a table at a restaurant for them, and they were sat talking about what they were going to do after the tournament when a voice from behind him asked "can we join you?"
"Of course," Delia said watching Ash freeze up when he recognised the voice. Not looking he sighed and moved over so Nia could sit next to him.
"So, what were we talking about? Sarah asked her eyes full of mirth.
"Plans for after the tournament" Ash said "I have a busy few months to be honest. My house is due to be completed next week and then a week or so later the staff will be joining me to help out. After that I have a convention to prepare for with Professor Oak and the Board for Outstanding Beauty. We'll be discussing getting funding for various areas I've been to in Kanto that I feel need protecting which should lead up to Christmas. After that my plans are up in the air. I've been considering just going away for a few months to train but it will depend on the outcome of tomorrows match."
"You'll win" Nia said confidently "we know it."
Ash just smiled.
"So, what's this about your house?" Sarah asked confused as the began to eat their chosen meal "aren't you a little young to own a house?"
"Oh, I won't be living there until I'm at least 15" Ash said making his mum smile "but I've had a house built outside of Pallet Town. It cost a fortune, but it doubles as a conservationist place now and will be given that status hopefully in the October meeting. I was given the land under the conditions I helped preserve certain species of Pokémon and animals that are on the verge of extinction. It's my property but I'm doing what I can to help out. So, in a few weeks when it's finished having works done specialists from the government and the Beauty places will be visiting and setting up shop in the outhouse to carry out tests and whatever they do to preserve things. When I'm 16 it will be my job to take over from the caretakers and continue their work."
"Sounds like you've got your work cut out for you" Nia commented.
"Nothing worthwhile is easy" Ash said smiling "and this is very worthwhile. You should both come and visit one day. Your Venusaur would love the place as my Venusaur and mum designed the garden and the grounds. It has a huge lake that Vaporeon would love, I'm sure Blastoise would be fine with it."
"I'd love to" Nia said gushing "it sounds idyllic."
"It really is" Ash said.
"I see what you mean" Sarah said to Delia quietly.
"I hope I'm right" Delia said sadly watching the two interact. "I hope for both their sakes."
The Next Day
"Welcome one and all to the seventieth Pokémon League Final!" the announcer shouted over the P.A system. We have just under an hour before the big event but before then I'd like to present to you the Kanto Gym leaders. Sadly there are only 15 here today due to the untimely death of Cinnabar Leader Blaine earlier this year."
Ash watched the procession happen on the TV in front of him in his room at the league building. They were fully furnished complete with an en-suite toilet and very luxurious. Ash was as relaxed as he could be as he watched the opening ceremony and listened as the coverage team gave their own analysis of the battles that had led up to this moment.
"You have to feel that Ash is the favourite here. He's lost two Pokémon in the entire league and hasn't looked out of his depth."
"I'd have to disagree. Nerves have got to play a part in this. John has been here before, so he knows how to deal with the pressure whereas Ash hasn't. I feel John is the slight favourite because of that."
"Whoever wins will fully deserve it. I don't think there is a favourite really. Yes, Ash hasn't been pushed and that has to be taken into account, but Nia's unconventional strategy flummoxed him, so we've seen a crack in his armour. John on the other hand has had to come from behind in the last two matches and has just squeaked over the line. The fact remains though that it's an even platform, they both start with six Pokémon and all six could very well be used from both sides. In a final anything can happen."
Ash stood and turned the TV off. On reflection they were all right. But that wouldn't matter today. A knock disturbed him. Opening it he saw the league official gesture for him to follow. Making sure he had everything Ash walked after him and waited in the tunnel. Beside him John joined him, and they both stared ahead in silence.
"Ladies and Gentlemen. Please give a huge ovation for the two finalists. Ash Ketchum and John Dickson." Charles Goodshows voice rang out. Taking a deep breath that was mirrored by John Ash walked forwards to a wall of noise. 50,000 people all there to see him and John face off from each other. The noise was incredible and very nearly overwhelmed Ash's senses. Ash nearly pinched himself but stopped himself from doing so. It was one thing to see this on the TV, it was quite another to be the one participating.
"John, Ash. You two have done something very few people have managed to do. You've reached the final of the Kanto League. Whatever happens today just know you should be very proud of your accomplishments. However there can only be one winner and today the Flame of Moltres will go out for another year. If you would, shake hands and wish each other the best."
Ash turned to John and saw the disgust on his face as he grasped Ash's hand. "I just want you to know that when this is over you will have proven to the world that you don't belong here and me winning was inevitable."
"You just don't get it do you?" Ash said releasing his hand and tilting his head to look at his opponent "It's quite sad really. So much promise, all to fall at the final hurdle. I hope you're ready for this John because after today you'll become a footnote in history, an answer in a quiz to the question 'who did Pokémon Master Ash Ketchum beat for his first championship' and that's all you'll ever be."
"Yes well" Charles said regaining his voice "Referee if you would, I wish you the best of luck...oh my"
Everyone turned to face Charles who was gazing up at the opposite side of the stadium on the roof and as a collective there was a huge gasp that rang around the stadium. Ash and John followed suit and Ash heard John gasp too. There on the rafters were the three Legendary Kanto birds looking down at them.