Pokemon Ash's and May's Hoenn Journey Chapt 42 Return of Brenden

Owned Pokemon

Ash- Pikachu, Tailow, Treecko, and Corpish

May-Torhic, Ralts, Marill, Beautifly, and Mudkip

Brock- Fortress, Lotad, and Mudkip

A/N Well, I'm introducing Brenden back in this story, He will be Ash's rival, and while in this part he flirts with May, he will not be a rival to Ash for May's love. For the most part at least, he will be attracted to May, but for the most part he won't try and get between them.

They all turned around and saw Brenden Birch, Professor Birch's son, whom they had met when May had chosen her starter. "Hey there, Ash, May! It's great to see to see you guys again," He said, greeting both of them warmly.

There was something about his gaze, though, that made May uncomfortable. He seemed to be staring at her intently, and Brenden's eyes remained fixated on May. He complimented her and remarked on her beauty, causing her discomfort to grow, as she began to feel trapped under Brenden's gaze. Meanwhile, Ash noticed the growing unease in May's expression. He was not one to get jealous easily, but seeing Brenden's blatant attempts to win over his girlfriend ignited a spark of protectiveness within him.

Brenden's eyes lit up as he saw May, as he thought she looked really hot. "Hey there, May," Brenden said smoothly, directing his gaze towards her with a sly smile. "You're even more stunning than I remember."

May felt her cheeks turn pink under his admiring gaze, but she tried to keep her composure. "Thank you, Brenden. It's nice to see you again, too" She was trying her best to be nice to him.

Brenden's eyes lingered on May a little longer than necessary; May was flustered by Brenden's flirtation. She glanced at her friends, hoping they hadn't noticed. Ash's face was unreadable.

May blushed uncomfortably, feeling the weight of Brenden's flirtatious words. She glanced at Ash, hoping for some support and reassurance. However, she noticed a hint of jealousy and protectiveness in his eyes. Ash's usually relaxed demeanor had shifted, and he positioned himself closer to May, subtly displaying his protective instincts. "May's is taken. She's my girlfriend." He responded firmly, his voice tinged with a touch of possessiveness.

Ash's fingers curled into fists as Brenden continued to flirt with May. "Hey May," Brenden said, leaning closer into her. "Why don't we go for a walk? Just you and me."

"Uh, sure." May hesitated, glancing over at Ash for reassurance. She found none, as Ash's jaw tightened, and his eyes narrowed into a glare. Worried that she had made a mistake, May added, "Can everyone else come too?"

"Actually, I'd like to challenge Brenden to a Pokémon battle," Ash interjected, his voice firm and assertive. He stepped forward and positioned himself between himself and Brenden. May smiled at how protective Ash was over her; it was actually really sweet to see how much he cared for her.

Brenden raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes as he recognized the jealousy behind Ash's challenge. "Sure, why not? A friendly match sounds fun."

Ash sent Pikachu out first, while Brenden sent out his Bagon out, while Ash scanned the Pokemon with the Pokdex Bagon, the Rock Head Pokémon. Bagon bashes itself against large rocks, until its head eventually grows as hard as steel.

As Brenden sent out his Bagon, May couldn't help but be captivated by the adorable dragon-type Pokémon. "Wow, Bagon is just too cute!" May exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with admiration. She couldn't resist showering the little Pokémon with compliments. "You're so adorable, Bagon! I love your fierce determination!"

Bagon, usually known for its fiery nature and relentless spirit, found itself blushing under May's genuine praise. The compliments from such a cute and enthusiastic girl warmed its heart, making it feel special and appreciated. The shy Bagon, now slightly embarrassed but also delighted, looked over at May with a grateful smile.

Ash, noticing May's reaction, grinned mischievously. "Seems like Bagon has found a fan, huh?" Me and Brenden need to get back to the battle, though."

May blushed slightly, realizing she had momentarily distracted the battle that was taking place. "Y-You're right, Ash! Sorry about that," She replied, letting the two refocus on the battle.

Ash and Brenden, along with their Pokémon, refocused on the battle, although neither didn't mind the cute distraction, especially Bagon, who quickly found itself attached to May. Now focused on the battle, Pikachu started off by using Quick Attack. Pikachu ran in and landed a direct hit on Bagon, making it flinch, Bagon responded by using Headbutt, sending Pikachu flying backwards, but Pikachu landed on its feet.

Ash then commanded Pikachu to use Thunderbolt. Pikachu unleashed a powerful electric attack that hit Bagon directly, dealing significant damage. Bagon tried to retaliate with Dragon Breath, but Pikachu was able to dodge the attack with ease. Finally, Ash commanded Pikachu to use Iron Tail. Pikachu leapt into the air and brought down a powerful Iron Tail, dealing a finishing blow to Brenden's Bagon. Brenden went up to Bagon and sprayed it with a potion "You tried your best, buddy; We'll get him next." He praised his Pokemon.

Bagon then looked over at May and began bolting over to her and jumping into her lap. Her eyes widened in surprise as the Bagon has surprisingly hopped onto her lap and began nuzzling her. She couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth and affection towards the adorable dragon-type Pokemon. Gently stroking its head, May couldn't resist smiling.

"Aw, you really are a sweetheart, aren't you?" May cooed, her voice filled with genuine fondness. She could sense the bond that was forming with Brenden's Bagon. It was as if the Pokemon could sense her kindness and find comfort in her presence.

Ash, witnessing the adorable scene, couldn't help but let out a chuckle. "Looks like Bagon has taken a liking to you, May!"

Blushing slightly, May glanced at Ash and then back at Bagon. "Well, I did say it was cute earlier. I guess it took my words to to heart!" She giggled, scratching behind Bagon's ears gently.

Brenden, who had been observing the heartwarming interaction, approached the pair with a relived smile. "I think Bagon knows when it's found someone; it's clear that it trusts you, May."

They then got back into the battle again, as Ash recalled Pikachu and sent out Corpish, while Brenden sent out his Electrike, and Ash scanned the Pokemon with his Pokedex Electrike, the Lightning Pokémon. Using the electric charge stored in its fur, it can run faster than the eye can follow.

Corpish started off with BubbleBeam, as it shot a powerful stream of bubbles towards Electrike, but it swiftly dodged the attack "Great job, Electirke! Now use Thundersock!"

Corpish tried to dodge the attack, but the attack was too fast for Corpish to dodge it, and the attack landed a direct attack. Brenden then told Electirke to follow it up with Thunder Fang. Electrike moves swiftly, its fangs crackling with electricity, and bites down on Corpish, causing a significant amount of damage.

"Shake it off, Corpish! Use Crabhammer!"

Corpish raises its claws high and slams them down on Electirke with tremendous force. However, Elecrike was able to shake off the attack and get back up "Electirke, finish this with Thunderbolt!"

Electirke gathers a massive electrical charge and unleashes a powerful Thunderbolt directly at Corpish. "Corpish, try to endure it!"

However, the Thunderbolts too overwhelming for Corpish. The attack hit it directly, leaving it weakened and unable to battle further. "Good fight, Ash! Your Corpish put up a good fight!"

"Thanks Brenden! Your Electrike is truly imperssive."

Ash sent out his Treecko next. Treecko started out by using Quick Attack. Treecko darted forward with impressive speed. "Electirke, don't let it escpae! Use Thunder Wave!"

Elecrike releases a wave of electric energy towards Treecko, but Treecko skillfully leaps over it. "Great job, Treecko! Now use Bullet Seed!"

Treecko jumps into the air, releasing a flurry of seeds towards Electrike "Electrike, dodge, and retaliate with Thunder Fang!"

Electrike leaps sideways, narrowly avoiding the Bullet Seed onslaught, then charges towards Treecko with electrified fangs. "Treecko, use your agility! Dodge and strike back with Energy Ball!"

Treecko nimbly sidesteps Electirke's attack and unleashes a powerful sphere of energy towards its opponent. "Elecstirke, don't let it hit you! Use Quick Attack to dodge!"

Elecrike swiftly moves to the side, narrowly evading the Energy Ball, Ash tells Treecko to follow it up with Leaf Blade. Its tail glows, transforming into a sharp blade towards Elecstrike. While Brenden told Electirke to use Thunder, Electirke released a tremendous amount of lighting towards Treecko, and Ash told Treecko to dodge and finish with Giga Drain. Treecko evades, the incoming Thunder attack, then swiftly moves in to adsorb Elecstikre's energy with Giga Drain. Elecstirke weakens as Treecko drains its energy, slowly losing strength, as it finally faints.

Brenden sends out Mightenya out next, and May's heart skipped a beat as she saw the fierce, intimidating Pokemon appear before her very eyes. Memories of a previous traumatic encounter with a wild Mightenya came flooding back. She remembered the Mightyena that had bit her, and fear gripped her heart. She couldn't help but also remember how Ash had saved her that day.

Ash, sensing May's unease, turned to her with a concerned expression. He could see the fear in her eyes, and he knew he had to do something to comfort her. Taking a step closer, he gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, May," Ash whispered softly, his voice filled with warmth and love. "I'm here with you, and nothing will happen to you."

May's trembling subsided as she looked into Ash's eyes. She knew he spoke the truth. Ash is always going to be there for her, and he was her rock, her pilar of strength, and she had complete faith in him. Nodding, she mustered up a a small smile and whispered back. "Thank you, Ash; I trust you."

Ash and Brenden went back to their battle, with Ash's Treecko starting off with Quick Attack. Without hesitation, Treccko darted forward, a blur of green as it charged towards Mightenya with incredible speed. Its nimble movements make it difficult for the opposing Pokemon to track its every move. However, Mightenya dodged the attack with Agility, With a burst of energy, Mightenya springs into action, dodging Treecko's Quick Attack effortlessly.

Brenden seized the opportunity and used Crunch. With a fierce growl, Mightenya lunged forward, its jaws closing around Treecko's arm, causing the Grass-Type Pokemon to wince in pain. Ash grits his teeth, determination burning in his eyes, and tells Treecko to use Bullet Seed. Treecko quickly recovers from the initial shock and focuses its energy. It launches a barrage of seeds from its mouth, The seeds zip through the air, aiming to strike Mightyena, turning the tide of the battle in Treecko's favor.

However, Brenden, told Mightyena to counter and use Shadow Ball, Mightyena gracefully evades the incoming Bullet Seed, and, with a sudden burst of dark energy, conjures a swirling ball of shadows. It hurls the Shadow Ball towards Treecko, its dark aura engulfing the Grass-Type Pokemon. The Shadow Ball hits Treecko with a devastating blow, causing it to stagger back, weakened and struggling to maintain its stance.

Brenden tells Mightenya to finish off Treecko with a Hyper Beam, With its energy fully charged, Mightyena unleashes a blinding beam of pure power. The Hyper Beam crashes into Treecko with tremendous force, leaving no chance for recovery. Treecko falls to the ground, unable to battle any longer.

Ash sends out his Tailow next, and Ash lets Brenden start, with his Mightyena using Crunch, Mightyena dashed towards Tailow with incredible speed, its jaws gleaming menacingly. But Ash told his Tailow to dodge it, and with remarkable agility, Tailow swiftly evaded the Crunch attack, leaving Mightyena biting the air. Taking advantage of the opening, Ash seized the opportunity and told his Tailow to use Aerial Ace. Tailow soared into the air, leaving a trail of speed behind it. It dived down towards Mightyena, striking with a mighty blow. The powerful move connected, dealing a significant amount of damage to Mightyena.

Brenden told Mightyena to shake it off and use Swagger. Mightyena regained its composure and unleashed a wave of intimidating energy at Tailow. The attack hits the mark, causing Tailow to become confused, its movements erratic. But Ash told Tailow to focus. Though confused, Tailow managed to shake off the confusion and regain control of its actions. With newfound determination, it prepared for its next move.

Ash told Tailow to finish off Mightenya with a Brave Bird attack, Tailow's eyes gleamed with determination as it gathered its energy, charging towards Mightyena like a bolt of lightning. Its body became surrounded by a powerful aura as it collided with Mightyena, dealing a devastating blow. Mightyena was sent flying backwards, unable to withstand the force of the attack. It crashed onto the ground, unable to battle any longer.

Brenden sent out his Marshtomp next, and Ash scanned it with his PokeDex Marshtomp, the Mud Fish Pokémon. Marshtomp is the evolved form of Mudkip, It is able to move and swim more quickly through mud than through water.

Ash started out by using Tailow to use Quick Attack. Tailow swiftly darted towards Marshtomp, aiming to land a powerful blow. But Brenden told his Marshtomp to protect. Marshtomp quickly created a defensive shield, blocking Tailow's Quick Attack effortlessly. Brenden told his Marshtomp to counter with a Mud Shot (I know Ground attacks can't hit Flying Types). Marshtomp unleashed a torrent of muddy projectiles towards Tailow, hitting with accuracy. Tailow tried to dodge, but the attack landed, weakening its stamina.

Ash told Tailow to use Aerial Ace, hoping to turn the tide. Tailow's wings glowed with power as it soared towards Marshtomp with incredible speed. Brenden told Marshtomp to meet it with a Water Gun, Marshtomp released a powerful stream of water, countering Tailow's Aerial Ace. The collision resulted in a massive explosion of water and wind.

As the dust settled, it became evident that Tailow had taken a significant of damage. Ash knew he had to come up with something quick if he wanted to turn things around, and Ash told Tailow to use Wing Attack, Tailow's wings glowed as it fiercely attacked Marshtomp, giving it no time to react, but Brenden told his Marshtomp to use Mud Bomb. Marshtomp gathered mud from the ground, formed a large ball, and hurled it towards Tailow.

The Mud Bomb collided with Tailows's Wing Attack, causing another massive explosion. Tailow was thrown back, unable to withstand the force. The battle had taken its toll, and Ash's Tailow fell to the ground, defeated.

Ash called out his Pikachu, and he quickly began with a barrage of Thunderbolts (I also know Electric Type moves can't hit Ground Types) towards Marshtomp. But with its agility, Marshtomp evaded the electrical onslaught, dodging and weaving through the air. Then Marshtomp used Mud Shot. In a flash, Marshtomp gathered mud within its powerful jaws and unleashed a powerful stream towards Pikachu. The mud splattered against Pikachu's body, slowing it down significantly.

Ash clenched his fists, his heart racing, Ash then told Pikachu to use Agility to dodge the attack. Pikachu's small body shimmered with energy as it gracefully moved, evading more of Marshtomp's Mud Shots with ease. Brenden then told Marshtomp to use Water Gun. Marsthomp opened its mouth wide and unleashed a torrent of water towards Pikachu. The powerful stream crashed towards Pikachu, knocking it back with a forceful impact.

Ash then told Pikachu to use Thunderbolt, and Pikachu, shaking off the water, unleashed a massive bolt of electricity towards Marshtomp. The lighting crackled through the air, engulfing Marshtomp in a dazzling display of power. Marshtomp struggled to stand. Its body twitched, but it refused to give up. Brenden's eyes narrowed, refusing to let Marshtomp to go down easily and telling it to use Mud Bomb. Marshtomp gathered mud within its powerful arms and flung it towards Pikachu.

Pikachu, weakened but determined, summoned its remaining strength. With a burst of speed, it leaped in the air, narrowly dodging the Mud Bomb. In mid-air, Pikachu gathered electrical energy, charging up for its final attack, and Ash told him to use a powerful Thunderbolt. Pikachu's cheeks crackled with energy as it unleashed a colossal Thunderbolt towards Marshtomp.

Marshtomp, weakened and exhausted, could no longer stand against the electrifying power. It crashed onto the ground, sparks dancing around its body, Brenden's shoulder slumped as he returned his Marshtomp. As he approached Ash, his eyes were downcast, but when he raised his head, his expression carried a newfound respect: "That was an incredible battle; you're an amazing trainer, Ash."

"Thanks Brenden." His voice was sincere. "You're not so bad yourself."

"Listen..." Brenden hesitated, glancing over at May, who stood watching from the sidelines, his Bagon still in her arms. "I owe you an apology, both of you. I was out of line earlier, flirting with May like that. I didn't realize how much she means to you, and I should have respected your relationship."

"It's alright," Ash said, his voice softening, Inside, he appreciated Brenden's apology more than he could express. It meant a lot to him that someone recognized the bond that he and May shared.

"Thank you, Ash," Brenden replied, extending his hand. Ash grasped it firmly, and they shared a smile of understanding.

"Hey, no hard feelings," Ash reassured him. "We all make mistakes. What is important is learning from them."

"Absolutely," Brenden agreed, "I'll definitely remember this."

Ash watched on as Brenden packed up his belongings; May, with the Bagon still in her hands, Max, and Brock all stood nearby, talking about the battle.

"Hey Brenden," Ash called out, "You've got some strong Pokemon, and you'll definitely be a strong trainer in the future."

"Thanks, Ash," Brenden replied, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "I learned a lot from battling you. I won't forget it."

Remember, it's not about winning or losing," Ash advised, his brown eyes reflecting the wisdom he gained from countless battles. "It's about growing stronger with your Pokemon and building trust with them."

"Definitely." Brenden nodded, shouldering his backpack. "I'll keep that in mind."

"Take care, Brenden," May chimed in, her voice gentle but firm. "And don't forget what happened today."

"Of course not," Brenden assured her, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. He turned to leave, then paused, looking over at Ash one last time. "Good luck on your journey, Ash. I hope we cross paths again."

"Same to you," Ash responded, grinning widely. "I'm sure we'll meet again someday."

But before Brenden could leave, May and Bagon had to say goodbye to each other, which was bittersweet for Bagon, as it and May had grown close already. As Bagon's teary eyes meet May's empathetic gaze, her heart softens. She gently strokes Bagon's head, trying to comfort it. Bagon's cries grew louder, and May instinctively leaned in closer, placing a gentle kiss on its forehead. The unexpected gesture catches Bagon by surprise, causing it to blush.

"Shh, it's okay, Bagon," May whispers, her voice filled with compassion. "We may be parting ways for now, but I promise you we'll meet again in the future, and I can't wait how to see you'll grow and achieve."

Bagon's cries gradually subside , replaced by a sense of warmth and reassurance. It nuzzled against May, feeling comforted by her words and their bond, which had grown quickly. May smiles, her affection for Bagon evident in her eyes. With a final pat on Bagon's head, May gently placed Bagon back on the ground, where Brenden waited patiently, smiling. As Bagon rejoined them, May watched them leave, her heart filled with hope for their future encounters.

As Brenden walked away, Ash felt a mixture of emotions swirling inside him: relief that the conflict was resolved, pride in his victory, and gratitude for the lessons he'd learned. He knew that moments like these were what made his journey truly meaningful.