Part XXVII: Riding the Lightning

Ash and Misty walked hand in hand along the path that led to the front doors of the Vermilion City Gym taking it in as they approached. The building was modern with glass panels at floor level, stone above it and then glass again above that. The roof was slanted in a clear lightning bolt fashion that also made the building that seemed to be attached to the side smaller than the main building.

It was clear that the there was a habit to go with the more modern designs for gyms in Kanto and surround them with public parks rather than other buildings. This was the third gym that Misty had seen here and so far the trend seemed to favor this style rather than the one in Pewter City.

It was the morning after they had arrived in Vermilion City. They had gotten in the day before in the late afternoon after pushing themselves all day because of the delay accidentally visiting Pokémon Tech had caused. As such they had gone straight to the Pokémon Center to recover from the journey and make the necessary preparations for today.

Once there Ash had asked Nurse Joy to send a message to Lt. Surge and tell him that Ash Ketchum was in town for his full battle challenge against the city's gym leader and was ready whenever Surge was starting tomorrow. Ash would have gone then and there but Misty had insisted that they at least take the night to recover.

Nurse Joy had graciously taken Ash's message and then showed them to their room where they dropped their stuff off and freshened up a little from their time on the road. By the time they were done and coming down for a much needed dinner, there was already a reply waiting for Ash. Apparently Surge was excited that Ash had arrived and had already booked off the next morning for their full battle. Ash was thrilled and they spent the rest of the evening eating and tweaking his strategy for the battle.

"Huh, they've rebuilt this one as well." Ash noted to Misty's surprise. "I wasn't expecting that."

"They have?" Misty asked confused. "What was it like the first time you were here?"

"Kinda like a tower atop a building with cheesy lightning bolts around it." Ash said as he remembered the old design of the place. "It showed what kind of gym it was but it didn't look great. This looks better, more professional, the way a gym probably should look but all leaders have their own styles so who am I to question them."

"Well I like it, it looks like a gym and the area around it is pretty nice." Misty said as they approached it before noticing two large, imposing, figures waiting for them outside the gym. "I see we have a welcoming committee waiting for you. This is new"

Ash looked ahead and saw that Misty was right. One of the two figures he immediately recognized as Lt. Surge, the Vermilion City Gym Leader. He was an unmistakable man standing over 7 feet tall and made of pure muscle so he cut an intimidating figure. As Ash studied him he noted that Surge looked the same as he had all those years ago when Ash had first faced him in battle.

Surge's blond hair still stood straight up as if electrified, only adding to his aura of toughness and strength. He wore a green military shirt unbuttoned to show off his sculpted chest and chiseled abs with the sleeves rolled up and a set of dog tags hanging around his thick neck. His look was capped off with fingerless black gloves, olive green military pants and combat boots. The only thing out of place to Ash was the grin on his face as they approached.

Next to Surge was clearly his number 2 but not someone who Ash had ever met before though as with last time she was cut from the same cloth as Surge. If it wasn't for the camouflage sports bra, short top, and long white blond ponytail that ended in an oversized socket of all things, Ash wouldn't have been able to tell the person's gender at a glance.

She was shorter than Surge by about a head, so still taller than Ash by a fair bit, with dark skinned but otherwise she was just like her boss complete with bulging muscles and toned abs on display for the world to see. She word a green sleeveless vest, sports bra and pants tucked into black combat boots similar to Surge's and a pair of fingerless black gloves. The only out of place item was the pink headband with a lightning bolt over her right eye that she wore to hold back her hair.

"Ash! So good to see you again after all these years." Surge barked happily as Ash reached them before offering his hand to Ash and shaking it in a crushing grip. "You have clearly grown since our rematch, really starting to fill out but you have a long way to go to bulk up like me. Let's hope that this is as epic as the last one."

"So this is the famous Ash." The woman said as she shook Ash's hand with an equally powerful grip right after Surge did making Ash wince in pain. "And that must be the legendary Pikachu that actually managed to beat your prized Raichu, Lt. What was it, 3, 4 years ago?"

"Almost 7 to the day I believe." Surge said. "And still it is a great story that is retold to this day. I had never expected to lose to a baby Pikachu but I did. Nowadays we tell of it as a cautionary tale to any who wish to join, don't judge a Pokémon by its size or evolution status. I still prefer fully evolved, power and charged up Pokémon but I know that they can be beaten with the right tactics and drive."

"Yeah I was telling Misty of our match the other day as we made our way here." Ash said and Misty waved nervously at the man. "It was the first real time I had to learn that being a trainer means knowing how to overcome disadvantages such as evolution."

"That it does." Surge said before looking at Misty. "You're definitely not that dark haired girl with Ash from last time, Dawn I think her name is. How do you know Ash?"

"No she's the Cerulean Gym Leader now." Misty said. "I'm actually from Sinnoh, I met Ash there and joined him when he traveled that region. Now I'm traveling Kanto with him, just this time I'm more than just his friend."

"Ah so that is where you have been all these years, seeing the world like a trainer should." Surge said with a laugh. "And getting a girlfriend along the way it seems."

"Er, yeah but that was more recent." Ash said with a little blush. "I have been traveling a lot since I was last here but as I said in my challenge letter, I am challenging the Kanto gyms again in preparation for my second attempt at the Indigo Conference. Only this time I want to face your full 6 Pokémon team, hopefully all at least partially electric types so I can practice against the type."

"I know, I'm really looking forward to seeing how you have grown in power since our last match." Surge said with glee in his voice. "A wise move from a tactical and training standpoint. Come on in, let's get this party started."

"Lt." The woman coughed with a hint of annoyance in her tone.

"Oh sorry, where are my manners, I was so excited to fight Ash that I completely forgot." Surge said slapping his forehead forcefully. "Ash, Misty, this is Visquez, the best student I have ever had and my protégé. One day she will take over for me here when I decide to move on from being gym leader. She will officiate our match if that is of."

"Pleasure to formally meet you and that is fine with me." Ash said with a small bow. "I apologize for not asking your name earlier."

"It is fine, I know how the Lt. can get when he's excited." Visquez said dismissively. "I look forward to officiating this match. I have heard a lot about you since joining the gym, don't disappoint me."

"I will try not to." Ash said a little uncomfortable at the praise.

"Um, is there a place I can change?" Misty asked nervously changing the subject. "I, er, have my own traditions for when Ash battles a gym leader that are even more important now that I am his girlfriend and I wish to keep them up. I should have come changed but, I, er, forgot."

"Of course." Surge said as he led them into the building and to a simple dirt battle field with no obstacles or obstructions and red stadium seating above it. "Visquez, show Misty to the woman's changing room where she can change. I don't want to deprive Ash of his support. We will wait for you there."

"Of course Lt.." Visquez said coming to attention and saluting Surge which he returned before taking Misty away. "Come Misty, I'll show you where you can change and get ready."

As Misty was led away, Ash and Surge took their positions on either side of the battlefield while they waited. Surge already had his first Poke Ball out and was idly tossing it in up and down in his large hand. Ash too pulled out his first Poke Ball knowing that Surge would want to start as soon as the go command was given so he had to be later.

Moments later Misty entered the battlefield via an upstairs entrance so that she could walk to the center of the first row on Ash's side in the stands. She was in her full cheerleader outfit with pom poms at thee ready. Taking positions on either side of her were all of her Pokémon bar Mamoswine in their respective outfits, including a new one for Gloom who could now wear it. Eevee still held a pom pom in her mouth as she didn't have any other place to hold it but was as enthusiastic as the other Pokémon cheering for Misty's mate.

"Let's go Ash!" Misty said as she began her routine with the Pokémon copying her as they were trained to do. "You can win baby, I know it! Make it 3 for 3 and beat this gym once again!"

"Well I see that she really is a keeper." Surge said as Misty continued her routine. "Can't say I've seen that too often, though you do occasionally see it from time to time."

"Yeah she is." Ash said with a smile and wave at his girlfriend as Visquez took her place on the refs small podium at midfield and cleared her throat bringing all their attention to her.

"Alright the full battle between the challenger Ash of Pallett Town and the Vermilion City Gym Leader Lt. Surge is about to begin." Visquez said in a clear, commanding voice. "Because Ash has already received the Thunder Badge this is not an official gym battle. Instead it will be a full 6 on 6 battle between the two trainers. Both trainers are allowed to substitute as they wish in this battle. Is this clear?"

"Crystal." Surge said with a nod. "But I won't substitute, power from start to finish is how it should be done."

"I understand." Ash said with a nod as he got into the zone. "Let's do this Surge."

"Alright then on my command." Visquez said raising a pair of flags in her hands and then dropping them. "Begin!"

"Jolteon, bring the thunder!" Surge bellowed throwing the ball out.

"Corphish, I choose you!" Ash said throwing out his own Pokémon.

Jolteon was the first to materialize. The Lightning Pokémon and one of Eevee's many potential evolutions roared and sparked as it glared at Ash. Corphish was out a moment later clicking its claws in preparation for the battle, not fazed in the slightest by the electric type Pokémon in front of it.

"I'll give it to you Ash, you have some stones on you." Surge said with a bark of laughter. "Starting with a water type against me is a bold strategy but you are unorthodox enough to try it."

"I like fighting with a disadvantage, it pushes me to be better." Ash said with a smirk. "You know that."

"That I do." Surge said with a nod before opening his arms wide in invitation. "Well come on and show me then. You can have the first move."

"Corphish, Bubble Beam!" Ash yelled without hesitation to start the battle.

"Cor, Corphish." Corphish said opening its claws and sending out a stream of bubbles right at Jolteon.

"Ha that won't do." Surge said with derision. "Jolteon, dodge that attack and counter with Quick Attack."

"That's what I expected." Ash said grinning. "Corphish, we practiced for this. Counter with Crabhammer."

"What?" Surge asked but it was too late.

Ash hadn't been 100% certain which Pokémon that Surge would have but he had some theories to go off based Surge's style and preferences. They would all be fully evolved and powerful electric types so that narrowed down the list of potential Pokémon that Surge would have. Jolteon was on that list and Ash knew that the electric evolution of Eevee often used Quick Attack as one of its attacks.

Given Surge's reliance on power and strength it was a stretch that he would use the attack on Ash but then again Ash had used speed against him before and Surge wasn't a gym leader for nothing. As such Ash had practiced this with Pikachu and Corphish just in case. Timing was key to it working and often they didn't get it quite right.

This time Corphish did get it right. Its claw glowed white with power before it brought it down right on Jolteon's head as it reached Corphish, driving Jolteon into the ground at its feet. The earth cracked and Corphish and Ash celebrated but it was premature as Jolteon was far from out of it.

"Jolteon Thunder Fang!" Surge ordered and Ash swore, he had hoped the attack would be enough but Jolteon was hardier than he had expected.

Jolteon roared, opened its mouth and clamped down its now sparking fangs right onto Corphish's still extended claw. The super effective attack coursed through Corphish causing it to wail in pain. Jolteon had Corphish in a vice like grip and was pouring as much electricity into it as possible.

"That's it now throw it away." Surge ordered and Jolteon obeyed, shaking its head a few times before flinging a still wailing and judging by the crackling on his shell a now paralyzed Corphish as far as it could. "Finish it with Thunder!"

Jolteon roared again and sent out a single bolt of powerful electric type power right at Corphish before either the Ruffian Pokémon or its trainer could react. Ash knew that he had no hope in this confrontation and cringed as the attack bore down on Corphish.

The only thing that Ash had going for him was that Thunder wasn't the most accurate attack but if it landed it was game over for Corphish. Unfortunately it landed from above and drove the still prone Corphish into the ground, hard. When the dust settled Corphish was on his back, legs splayed, charred and smoking with swirls for eyes.

"Corphish is unable to battle." Visquez said raising the correct flag. "The winner is Jolteon."

"That's how a soldier gets it done." Surge said proudly. "Good attempt, your strategy might have worked but you let me get close Ash, that was all I needed to beat you."

"True that was my mistake." Ash admitted as he returned Corphish, behind in a battle for the first time in his current journey before looking at the Poke Ball. "You did great buddy; your reaction time is really something and you landed that hit just as we practiced which is good. It was always a struggle to win this but we gave it our best shot. Next time we face an electric type we will know what to do."

"Jolteon stay in." Surge ordered and his Pokémon came to stand in front of him waiting for the next challenger. "Let's make this two for two soldier."

"We shall see." Ash said as he pulled out his second Poke Ball and tossed it out. "Staraptor, I choose you!"

Ash threw his second Pokémon into the battle. The Predator Pokémon burst into existence with a caw as he beat his wings steadily to hover in front Ash, ready to fight against whoever he had to fight for Ash. Jolteon cowered slightly from Staraptor's Intimidate ability, an ability that Ash didn't know about yet, but recovered quickly, its attack power a little less.

"Interesting, using a flying type against me." Surge said looking at Staraptor. "Sinnoh native if I recall. Another challenge for yourself Ash. I'll give it to you; you really like the challenge. Your stones keep getting bigger by the moment against me it seems."

"Beating you with Pokémon who can resist electricity while having a type advantage is no fun and no challenge, at least not until I am down." Ash said still smiling. "This way I get the experience of trying to beat a Pokémon with a type advantage over me. That is how you grow as a trainer. Well that and I didn't use any type disadvantaged Pokémon against Dawn so I have to make it up with you if I am to truly overcome something like this in the Indigo Conference."

"True that is." Surge said with a nod. "I can respect that desire to push yourself however you still have to win with your Pokémon."

"I intend to." Ash said with confidence in his voice as he began the second matchup. "Staraptor get on close with an Ariel Ace. Show off that speed!"

"Jolteon, we can't dodge that and I don't want to anyway." Surge barked as Staraptor dived and got low, going faster than Ash had ever seen as they had focused their training on speed, well that and his flying Pokémon apparently raced each other daily to see who was fastest and it was really paying off. "As soon as it hits, use Thunder Fang on its wing."

Jolteon didn't have time to show it had heard its trainer. Almost before the words had left Surge's mouth, Staraptor hit Jolteon at full speed. Jolteon roared in pain but it was clearly well trained and it activated Thunder Fang and bit Staraptor at the last second it could. It was only a glancing blow but it was enough to do a good chunk of damage due to the type advantage of the move as Staraptor wailed in pain. Jolteon was thrown painfully to the ground and rolled a few times. Ash didn't relent though, so longs as Jolteon was disorientated he had the advantage.

"Close Combat!" Ash ordered. "Get in there Staraptor and don't let it recover."

Staraptor cawed as he gracefully back flipped, dived and engaged Jolteon as it was getting to its feet. The Lightening Pokémon didn't have time to react as Staraptor landed a series of blows on its body with the fighting type move. Jolteon was forced to the ground but it wasn't over yet.

"Discharge!" Surge ordered and Jolteon obeyed instantly.

The powerful field of electricity blasted off Jolteon in all directions and Staraptor was blasted back sparking and wailing in pain as he was unable to dodge it. Staraptor slammed into the ground and skidded but instead of lying there, he slowly got up and despite the pain flapped his wings to get into the air. Jolteon for its part was beat up pretty badly but growled as it got to its feet and glared at Staraptor.

Both Pokémon were on their last legs and the trainers knew it. They had taken significant damage so it was time to go for broke and hope power and stamina won out in the end. it was how Surge would play it and Ash knew that it was his best strategy right now as well.

"Staraptor, Brave Bird!" Ash yelled.

"Jolteon, Quick Attack!" Surge countered.

Both Pokémon gave their own war cries and charged without a second thought. Jolteon gaining speed and ground on Staraptor by the second as its speed increased. Staraptor just dove low and glowed blue, cawing as he did and speeding up as he charged his most powerful attack while skimming the surface of the battlefield. Less than a second later they met in the center.

The explosion was epic. The shockwave reverberated and shook the gym, causing Ash, Surge and Visquez to brace themselves as the dust kicked up from the impact though it was low enough to the ground to not affect Misty. They shielded their eyes as they waited for the dust to settle down. When it did the results were as expected.

In the center of the battlefield was a small, relatively shallow, but noticeable crater. On one side was Staraptor on his back, wings splayed wide and beak open. On the other Jolteon lay on its side its fur darkened by thee impact. Both Pokémon had swirls for eyes. It was a draw.

"Neither Pokémon is able to battle so it is a draw." Visquez declared as soon as she had recovered. "Trainers, recall you Pokémon and send out you next ones."

"Go Staraptor!" Misty cheered from her spot. "You may be out but you still beat Jolteon and that is what is important. Keep it up Ash, I know you will win!"

"You were great Staraptor." Ash said as he recalled his Pokémon silently accepting his girlfriend's praise and using it to fuel him. "That Jolteon was tougher than I expected but you took it down in the end even if you lost as well. you ensured we took one of Surge's Pokémon off the board and that is worth praise."

"Good job soldier." Surge said to his Pokémon. "Taking down two of the enemy shows your toughness and skill. You will move up in my roster after this one."

"Well Surge, shall we continue." Ash said pulling out his third Poke Ball. "I still have a lot left in me, I'm nowhere near done."

"I expect no less Ash." Surge said as he pulled out his second. "Why don't I get this started with my sergeant a little earlier than planned. Electivire, bring the thunder!"

"An Electivire, I have had plenty of experience battling with this Pokémon." Ash said as the Thunderbolt Pokémon materialized in front of Ash, tall and powerful just like the last 3 he had faced. "And I have just the Pokémon to go toe to toe with it. Boldore, I choose you!"

Ash threw out his own Poke Ball and the second stage rock type from Unova appeared in front of him. It was ready for battle and eager to show Ash just what it was made of and the powerful electric type opposite it would be a worthy advisory.

"Now I haven't seen one of those before." Surge said his eyes widening slightly in surprise at it. "I take it that it's not from this continent."

"Nope I caught it when it was a Roggenrola in Unova." Ash said with a smirk at being able to get one up on Surge, if Boldore surprised him then Palpitoad would floor him. "Boldore, Rock Blast!"

"Show your speed, dodge and hit it with a Thunder Wave!" Surge countered. "Don't let it hit you."

Electivire easily dodged the Rock Blast as if it was nothing showing off its speed as it moved to the side before the attack could hit it. Then its tails crackled and sent out the Thunder Wave right at Boldore. Boldore was strong and hardy but it wasn't particularly fast so it took the attack head on. Thunder Wave was an attack that did no damage but the sparking across Boldore's body showed that it did what it was supposed to do. Boldore was paralyzed.

"Hang in there Boldore." Ash said with a grimace knowing that the status problem wouldn't be going away this battle. "Use Flash Canon!"

"It may not be able to move!" Surge said happy he had an advantage against the rock type. "Get in close, take the shot if you have to, but make sure you can use Brock Break and end it!"

"Vire!" Electivire yelled and charged, his fist glowing with the power of the fighting type move.

Boldore prepared for the attack and tried to send out its energy in the form of Flash Canon. However when it tried it wailed as it seized up in pain and sparked unable to move. Ash grimaced and braced himself for the attack knowing he had a trump card in this fight. Boldore couldn't move so that meant that the attack, which he knew was super effective, would hit.

It did but Ash was prepared for it. The powerful fighting type move hit Boldore and sent it back a few paces, digging furrows in the ground with its legs. However it was still standing. Shaky and clearly hurt but still standing.

"What!" Surge bellowed in surprise. "That should have ended it then and there. How is that Pokémon still standing."

"Hold your own Boldore!" Misty cheered. "Show that Electivire who the real boss is."

"Thanks Surge." Ash said with a grin. "My Boldore's ability is Sturdy, you can't end it with just one hit like that. Now Boldore, use Stone Edge."

"Dodge!" Surge yelled but to no effect, Electivire was too close to get out of the way, the only way Electivire wouldn't take any damage would be if the paralysis took effect again.

Boldore roared as it slammed the ground with its forelegs happy that this time the paralysis hadn't taken hold of it. Instantly a set of earth spike shot out and slammed into Electivire's sides, hard. The fully evolved Pokémon bellowed in pain but it didn't go down, it was just too powerful to be taken down in one go by the rock type move.

"That's it, show Ash why you're one of my best." Surge said proudly. "Brick Break again!"

As the rocks slid back down, Electivire raised its paw and swung it down hard. The fist flowed in power as it hammered down at a range that was too close to dodge. The attack slammed into the center of Boldore's head. Boldore just grunted and flattened to the ground with its legs extended out around it and its eyes nothing but swirls.

"Boldore is unable to battle." Visquez declared raising one of her flags. "The winner is Electivire."

"Boldore, return." Ash said calling back his Pokémon trying not to show his frustration at losing a matchup he knew he should have won. "That was great, we did our best out there and Electivire will feel that Stone Edge. You weakened it, now I'll defeat it so that your loss wasn't in vain."

"Electivire, come back to my side." Surge said and Electivire did that as Ash pulled out his 4th Poke Ball of the battle. "Not bad Ash but you will have to do better to defeat my Electivire. He's my tank, it takes a lot to take him down."

"I got a good lick in and now that its weakened I'll take it down." Ash said as he threw out his 4th Pokémon. "Quilava, I chose you!"

Quilava burst forth in a plume of flame ready to battle. There was no type advantage here so Ash was going to have to use speed and strategy to win this matchup. Fortunately Ash had a plan, he'd dealt with enough Electivires in his time to fight them.

"Quilava, Flame Wheel!" Ash yelled and Quilava instantly leapt into a flaming ball and sped towards Electivire. "Dodge it's attacks and get in close."

"Electivire, brace yourself." Surge said surprising Ash by not giving an attack order as Electivire did just that. "When it leaps up, catch it."

"Keep going!" Ash said with a smirk that unsettled Surge as he mentally changed his strategy for how to handle Electivire. "And wait for my order."

Quilava did that, trusting Ash implicitly, and charged, leaping at the last moment to only to be caught by Electivire's strong hands at arm's length causing Quilava to spin in its grip while doing almost no damage. As soon Surge had given the order to catch it, Ash had known what he had to do to counter it to his advantage and in all honesty this worked better for him.

"Now stop." Ash said and Quilava did that while Electivire smirked at it, a smirk that Ash whipped off its face quickly when he ordered his next attack. "Eruption!"

"Fuck!" Was all Surge could say as the powerful fire type move hit Electivire in the face at point blank range no doubt doing plenty of damage to it.

Electivire hollered and took a step back in pain, its fur blackened and singed from the fire. Ash saw his opening and struck while Electivire was on the back foot. Alas Surge was still a good tactician and ready for this despite Electivire's temporary blindness. Ash could surprise him once but not again.

"Flame Wheel!" Ash ordered.

"Low Kick!" Surge ordered. "Sweep it, you can't miss at this range."

Before Quilava could attack, Electivire swept its leg and kicked Quilava away as hard as it could. Quilava flew the air before it crashed into the ground and rolled away but Surge wasn't going to let it up. He had power and strength on his side and he intended to use it.

"Thunder!" Surge yelled. "Full power!"

Electivire roared as his tails crackled and the attack shot out. Quilava was still on the ground in the process of getting up when the attack hit it form above. It couldn't move or get out of the way in time and Ash knew it, he was hoping the attack would miss this time but as with before it didn't.

Quilava thrashed on the ground for a few seconds as the attack slammed into it and coursed through it before it ended. When it was done Quilava was on its side and smoking from the attack on the cracked ground. It's eyes were now swirls showing that it was out of the battle.

"Quilava is unable to battle." Visquez declared raising a flag. "The winner is Electivire."

"Quilava return." Ash said with a sigh, he was now down 4 Pokémon to Surge's one it wasn't looking good for him, it was time to pull out his equalizer. "Well done Surge, that Electivire is one tough Pokémon to beat for sure. I think it's time for my secret weapon. I was hoping to avoid using him for this purpose but your strength has forced my hand."

"The odds are against you Ash." Surge said with a grin. "Your Pokémon are good and well trained, I'll give you that, but mine are more powerful. I have the power, you apparently don't and that is why I will win."

"Power isn't everything Surge." Ash said as he pulled out his 5th Poke Ball containing the one he had been saving for when he needed him. "Palpitoad, I choose you! It's all on you my friend."

Ash threw the Poke Ball out. It burst open and the odd-looking water and ground type Ash had caught in Unova materialized with a smile and a whip of his long tongue. Surge took one look at the Pokémon and burst out laughing at it.

"Now I know you have massive stones on you Ash." Surge said as he recovered his composure. "A third Pokémon with a type disadvantage against me, that takes guts and stones larger than I thought possible. That water type, I'm assuming from Unova, won't do a thing to my Electivire."

"Oh I wouldn't be too sure Surge." Ash said with a grin as he played into the gym leader's misconception. "Palpitoad, Hydro Pump!"

"Dodge and use Thunder!" Surge ordered. "It won't survive that, few water types can."

Electivire obeyed and easily dived out of the way of the powerful water type attack that had been thrown at it. However it was slower than before because of all the damage it had taken and Ash could use that in a moment when the time came but it wasn't time yet.

Regardless, Electivire had power and juice to spare for a strong attack. It's tails crackled and a powerful blast of electric type power shot up and arched down onto Palpitoad. All Palpitoad did was stand there and smile as it took the attack not moving the entire time, just enjoying it.

When the Thunder hit the ground around Palpitoad it exploded causing another dust cloud that obscured Ash's Pokémon. Surge was smirking at his victory, as was Electivire as it had just taken down a third Pokémon for its commanding officer. That was until the dust settle to reveal Palpitoad still standing there, smiling happily and completely unscathed by the attack.

"What!" Surge yelled his eyes wide in shock. "No, it can't be…"

"Yes it is." Ash said with a smirk. "Palpitoad, Mud Shot!"

Palpitoad happily obeyed and lashed its tongue out in a wide arc. A series of mud balls were flung from it and right at Electivire. Between its shock, damage, and the fatigue of fighting for so long, Electivire had no energy left to dodge it and just took the super effective attack head on, crossing its arms in an attempt to brace itself.

The attack hit with a resounding boom and Electivire was blasted backwards and slammed into the ground before skidding to a halt near the edge of the battlefield off to Surge's right side. It was on its back, looking up at the celling with swirls for eyes.

"Electivire is unable to battle." Visquez said as shocked as her boss at the sudden realization of precisely what type combination Palpitoad was before raising the flag on Ash's side. "Palpitoad is the winner."

"Oh yeah that's how it's done, go Palpitoad!" Misty cheered enthusiastically from her spot in the stands. "Show them why Ash is the best and will always surprise you with his Pokémon."

"That he did, Ash really surprised us didn't he." Surge said to his now returned Pokémon. "Good job soldier, taking out two more of Ash's Pokémon before going down to a Pokémon like that is impressive. I need to learn more about Pokémon not native to this continent after that match, I wasn't expecting a part ground type from Unova. That was my mistake and I will correct it."

"Yeah Palpitoad was always my secret weapon against you." Ash said with a grin as Palpitoad continued to smile happily after his victory. "I was hoping not to need to rely on him so heavily but well you are a lot better than I expected and I wasn't as skilled as I should be so there is a lot of work still to do. I'll keep him in for the moment to even this battle up."

"I can see why you would save a Pokémon like that for when you need it." Surge said with a nod. "But like you, I know how to counter a disadvantage against my style such as the ones ground types present me. I make sure none of my Pokémon are reliant solely on electric type moves because of that."

"I expect no less from the Vermilion Gym Leader." Ash said. "You wouldn't be a gym leader otherwise. Come on, send out your next Pokémon. I have some catching up to do."

"I can't allow that now can I, not after my hot start against you." Surge said with a grin as he pulled out his third Poke Ball. "That trick worked once om me but it won't work again. Manectric, bring the thunder!"

Surge threw out the Poke Ball. It burst and the Discharge Pokémon from Hoenn appeared in a series of sparks with a howl of challenge at Ash and his Pokémon. Palpitoad just grinned at it ready for the next challenger. He knew that he was Ash's trump card in this battle and would be relied on to carry the team on his back, it was time to show his trainer and friends he could do that when called upon. The first Pokémon had been weakened so his victory wasn't true, this one was the real deal however. Palpitoad wouldn't let Ash down.

"Manectric we can't use electric moves against that Pokémon." Surge said causing Manectric to growl in frustration at that. "So hit it with Quick Attack!"

"Palpitoad, jump and dodge it." Ash ordered. "And use Mud Shot!"

Palpitoad leapt at the last minute and just managed to dodge the Quick Attack as Manectric shot beneath him. He then twisted in the air and lashed his tongue and sent the Mud Shot at Manectric. However, Manectric was still running and easily dodged the attack and turned around, skidding on the ground in the process, and began running back at Palpitoad though its speed was normal as the Quick Attack had ended.

"Bite!" Surge ordered with a smile.

"Let it get close." Ash said in thinking quickly on what he needed to use against Manectric. "Then hit it with Sludge Wave!"

Palpitoad obeyed his trainer without question, he trusted Ash's orders would bring him victory. As Manectric ran at him, it's mouth open and ready to attack, Palpitoad waited until it was range and with a smile countered. The wide poison type attack filled the area around Palpitoad with a wave of sludge. Manectric ran right into it as it was unable to avoid it and howled in pain as the wave hit it, ended its attack, and sent it crashing back. Ash had the upper hand and he knew it.

"Palpitoad, combination time." Ash said with a grin. "Hydro Pump and Mud Shot in that order!"

"What!" Surge said in shock as Palpitoad attacked. "How is that possible!"

Palpitoad showed how by first opening his mouth and sending out a powerful jet of water right into Manectric side as it was getting up. The force of the attack sent it flying back but it was only half damage as a water type move so it wouldn't knock it out just yet. That wasn't Ash's plan though. The Hydro Pump was just to keep Manectric on the defensive and unable to attack or even dodge. The true attack was the Mud Shot that followed the Hydro Pump.

Palpitoad's ground type attack was the best move Ash had in this battle against Surge and he needed to even it up and fast. The balls of mud slammed into the wet and injured Manectric while it was still in the air. The move had worked to perfection just as they had practiced it.

As expected it was the final straw for Manectric. The attack blasted the still airborne Pokémon again and Manectric flew into the side wall behind Ash with enough force to crack before sliding down to the base of the wall it while making no sound in the process. That was because it had fainted before it even hit the wall. That was confirmed by the swirls in Manectric eyes as it lay at the foot of the wall with a little rubble on its side.

"Manectric is unable to battle!" Visquez said raising the correct flag to indicate her decision. "The winner is Palpitoad."

"Manectric, return." Surged said recalling his defeated Pokémon from across the battlefield. "You did well soldier, take a good rest after that. Those were odds that few could overcome given the types involved. We will work on this, ground types are our bane and I will improve my strategies for dealing with them, my soldiers deserve no less from their commander."

"That's it Palpitoad, keep it up." Misty cheered from the stands getting into her routine. "Show them just how good you are. Bring Ash back into this and win it for him. You got this; we all believe in you!"

Palpitoad just beamed and waved his tongue up at his trainer's mate in thanks. He was fighting his best fight in ages. Not since he had defended his old pond back in Unova had he had been on top of his game like this. When Ash had defeated him back then he had willingly accepted his capture because any trainer who could beat him was worth following so that he could get even stronger in battle. Now he was paying his trainer back in spades for his faith in Palpitoad.

"Not bad Ash." Surge said with a nod as he pulled out his 4th Poke Ball. "That is certainly a talented Pokémon who you have there. The typing and range of moves shows me it is well trained and raised strong. You have forced me to call upon my ace to deal with it, earlier than I planned on using him. Raichu, bring the thunder!"

"Palpitoad, return." Ash said as soon as Surge announced his Pokémon causing former soldier to blink in surprise as Raichu burst into existence in front of him. "I have been waiting for this Pokémon all battle and you knew that there was only one I would use against it. Pikachu, you ready?"

"Pika, Pi." Pikachu said with a grin as he ran out and into the battlefield and issued his own challenge to his old rival. "Pika, Pikachu."

"Now this is what I really wanted, a true rematch." Surge said with a wide grin. "It's been almost 7 years, my Raichu is much stronger than last time. He wants this match just as much as your Pikachu does."

"Rai, rai." Raichu said with a grin as it extended its paw to the only Pikachu to ever best him and made a come at me bro gesture accepting Pikachu's challenge. "Raichu."

"Pika Pikachu." Pikachu said at his evolved form, it was time to put it in its place once again. "Pi, Pikachu."

"Looks like they're ready." Ash said with glee. "Just like old times as I expected."

"Then let's make this epic again, another battle to speak of with reverence for years to come." Surge said as he pointed at Pikachu. "Raichu, show them what you've learned, Body Slam!"

"Dodge it with Quick Attack!" Ash countered. "Remember Pikachu, you can't match Raichu power for power, but you are faster and more agile. Be smart and show them what a Pikachu can really do."

"Pika, Pi." Pikachu said with a nod as he waited for the right moment, he knew what his best friend wanted and he knew how to handle this particular Raichu.

The Raichu leapt into the air and came down on Pikachu, fast. Clearly one thing that Surge had done over the years in response to their rematch was to try and increase Raichu's speed but it was still limited by its quick evolution, one thing that Surge admittedly regretted in hindsight and had done a better job with when he had his Eevee before evolving it into Jolteon. Power was what Surge wanted but he wasn't stupid, he wouldn't make the same mistake again. However, in that same time, Pikachu's own speed was at a point where few of their evolutionary family could match it.

With a cry, Pikachu easily leapt to the side and away from Raichu, fast enough to even dodge the other Pokémon's long tail that lashed out at it out of frustration. Raichu hit the ground and rolled with irritation at its faster, pre evolved, form.

"Don't take that lying down Raichu." Surge bellowed. "Mega Kick! Thunder Punch! Keep it up! We won't let it win like last time."

"Pikachu, keep dodging it with Quick Attack!" Ash said again. "You don't have Agility anymore but that doesn't mean you lost any of your speed. Show that Raichu why Pikachus are just as good."

"Pikachu." Pikachu said as he waited and dodged the Mega Kick with a Quick Attack, and then the Thunder Punch as well.

"Don't let up Raichu!" Surge yelled. "We got this! Mega Kick!"

What followed was a good minute of Pikachu showing off his speed and endurance as he continued to dodge Raichu's attacks. Surge was getting annoyed at this but kept the pressure up, he was not going to let Ash win this. The strategy was tiring for both Pokémon and though Pikachu had more endurance after years of training with Ash it still wasn't enough. This was shown when Pikachu was finally a shade too slow and took a powerful Mega Kick to the side. He was thrown back a bit and rolled on impact but Raichu's exhaustion had diminished the blow a little.

"That's it Pikachu we have it." Ash said seeing his chance despite the hit Pikachu had taken, Raichu was finally too tired. "Now hit Raichu with a Quick Attack."

"Raichu, this is your opening." Surge said his frustration turning to joy at his opportunity to end this. "Thunder Punch!"

Raichu raised his fist and it crackled but he was breathing heavily and clearly exhausted from the constant attacks. So was Pikachu but his speed and endurance were much higher than Raichu's and he used that to his advantage. Before Raichu could even cock his fist back, Pikachu hit it clean in the belly with his head. Raichu exhaled the last of its air as it was thrown backwards and rolled on impact.

However it wasn't done yet. Raichu had had close to 7 years to prepare for this battle and it slowly got onto one knee, one eye closed and grimacing in pain and exhaustion but it wasn't done yet. Electricity sparked around it; it wasn't out of the battle and it would beat this damned Pikachu this time. Raichu wouldn't be humiliated again.

"That's it Raichu, time to use our most powerful move." Surge said. "Finish this with Hyper Beam!"

"Pikachu, Iron Tail!" Ash ordered.

Pikachu charged at Raichu at full speed but he knew that the distance wasn't close enough, Raichu would get the attack off before he reached it. When that happened Pikachu knew he would lose. That was when the sparks on Raichu's body showed their true colors. They weren't, as everyone thought, the remains of the failed Thunder Punch that Raichu was using to intimidate Pikachu. No it was the effects of Pikachu's Static ability and Raichu wailed as he was paralyzed and couldn't attack.

"No!" Surge yelled his eyes wide in horror. "How could I have missed that."

Ash just yelled in triumph, he loved Pikachu's ability, especially when it surprised him in battle. Pikachu for his sake ignored everything. Pikachu had his opening and he wasn't going to pass it up, not against this Raichu. Leaping high in the air and turning his tail to steel, Pikachu flipped and brought it down at full speed onto Raichu's head.

Time seemed to stop for a moment as the attack made contact. Raichu was looking up at Pikachu its eyes wide in defeat as Pikachu looked down on his old rival in triumph. Then time returned to normal. Raichu let out one last howl of pain as it was driven down and into the ground in a cloud of dust.

When it cleared Pikachu was standing at the edge of a small indent in the ground breathing heavily but other than being tired and taking one attack he was pretty unharmed. Raichu, on the other hand, was laying on its back in the small indent with swirls for eyes. Ash had just tied the match.

"Raichu is unable to battle." Visquez said in amazement forgetting to raise a flag, she'd heard tale of the last battle but it didn't do this one justice. "Pikachu is the winner."

"Raichu return." Surge said calling back his closest Pokémon. "You did well soldier, it was the match we wanted the moment we got Ash's challenge and again we lost to that Pikachu. We will train and next time, and mark my words my friend there will be a next time, we will win."

"Pikachu show them why you're Ash's best!" Misty cheered with her Pokémon, Buneary and Eevee the most enthusiastic of them all at Pikachu's victory. "Not even a Raichu can handle you. Ash you can do it! 3 straight victories to tie it, now win it! Keep it up my love."

"Pikachu, you good bud?" Ash asked hoping his Pokémon could last one more round so as to avoid too much strain on Palpitoad, he would need the latter again but he wanted Palpitoad to have as much rest as possible.

"Pikachu." Pikachu said with a nod as he returned to Ash and stood in front of him, his confidence was sky high after that and he wanted to stay out for Ash and win this despite his exhaustion.

"Good." Ash said with a smile looking Surge in the eyes across the battlefield. "Come on Surge, it's a tied match now, a whole new ballgame. We each have 2 Pokémon left, let's end this."

"That it is." Surge said with a nod as he pulled out his 5th Poke Ball. "I will give it to you Ash, you have really come back into this when I thought I had you dead to rights. A true soldier never quits no matter the odds, I can respect that. However I still have 2 fresh Pokémon and yours have already fought hard so I still hold the edge."

"Then let's change that." Ash said in challenge.

"Let's." Surge replied as he threw out his Poke Ball. "Electrode, bring the thunder!"

The Poke Ball burst open and a large white and red ball with a face materialized in front of the electric type specialist. The Ball Pokémon grinned at Ash and Pikachu and Ash groaned at the sight of it. He never had good experiences with this Pokémon and its penchant for blowing itself up whenever it wanted, often for no valid reason. This wasn't going to be easy.

Ash was going to have to end it quickly, before Electrode could do what it was famous for. Pikachu wanted to keep fighting and Ash would let him, otherwise he'd have switched in Palpitoad for this as he had the type advantage but Ash put that to the side of his mind, he had to take the upper hand in this battle. Electrode was going to be unpredictable, he needed to start strong against it.

"Electrode, pick this up where Raichu left off." Surge said starting off the match. "Hyper Beam, end this quickly."

"Pikachu dodge with Quick Attack!" Ash ordered again. He knew that Pikachu was tired but he just needed to dodge the attack and he could win. "And close the gap with Electrode."

Pikachu braced himself for the right moment. Electrode was fast though. It was well trained and powerful, a combination that was going to be hard to overcome. It quickly formed the telltale orange energy of a Hyper Beam and shot it out at Pikachu. If it hit Pikachu knew he was done for, he didn't have the energy to recover, but Pikachu also knew that if he dodged it he had a free attack and that was what he needed to win.

At the last moment Pikachu activated his Quick Attack and ran forwards and to the side to close the distance to Electrode while also avoiding the attack in the process. The Hyper Beam breezed uncomfortably close to Pikachu, close enough to slightly singe his fur, but a moment later he was past it and Electrode had to recharge.

"That's it Pikachu." Ash said as he knew he had it. "Get above it and use Iron Tail. Drive it into the floor so that it can't float and avoid you."

"Pikachu!" Pikachu yelled as he leapt into the air, his tail turning to steel as he did before performing his signature forward flip as he brought his tail to bear on the Ball Pokémon.

Electrode had no way to dodge but Surge knew that his opening gamble may have failed but he had one more trick up his sleeve so long as Electrode survived the attack and Surge knew wouldn't fail. The Iron Tail attack landed as expected and drove Electrode down with a wail into the ground where it stuck fast in another new crater on the now pockmarked battlefield. It was too deep to get out quickly, especially for a Pokémon with Electrode's body type. Ash had the battle.

"Now Pikachu, Iron Tail again." Ash said and Pikachu obeyed, leaping up and bring it down for a powerful coup de gras. "We got this!"

"Electrode, all soldiers know that duty may call upon them to give the ultimate sacrifice for their unit." Surge said seriously. "Now it is your turn. Explosion!"

"That's what I was fearing." Ash said with a wince, there was no time to abort and he and Pikachu knew it. This was going to hurt, a lot.

Electrode just smirked as it began to glow white. It knew its duty and its job but it also really liked to explode, all Electrodes did. As Pikachu reached it, hoping against hope that it would hit before it blew up, the buildup of energy was complete. Just as the attack was only inches away when Electrode blew up.

The explosion was massive, larger than the one between Staraptor and Jolteon earlier in the battle. It took all of Ash, Surge, and Visquez's strength to stay standing as they were forced back a few inches while earth from the battlefield was thrown in all directions. The shock wave even reached Misty and she was thrown painful back into her seat while all her Pokémon were knocked back, as always Piplup getting the worst of it and flying back several rows.

Despite this they all noticed the limp, yellow figure that was blown upwards, getting spat out of the large debris cloud with enough force to slam into the ceiling before falling back as the dust began to settle. Pikachu's arc took thankfully took him back towards Ash so all he had to take a step back before he managed to catch his buddy in his arms, staggering but maintaining his balance just about. Pikachu's body was blackened and eyes were swirls. He had been taken out as expected and would need at least an overnight stay in the Pokémon center to recover from this battle.

The dust finally settled and they saw the extent of the damage to the gym. Debris was everywhere, some even reaching the stands, as dust still hung in the air. Thankfully no one had been hit by it but they were all dusty. The walls surrounding the battlefield hadn't been as lucky, they were marked in serval places by the debris with plenty of cracks in it. Then there was the field itself, of all things that was the worst.

The explosion had been on Surge's side of the battlefield but it was so large that it now connected the crater in the center from Staraptor and Jolteon's battle with the one nearer Surge from Raichu's defeat and it was much deeper than the first. In the very center, buried deeper than before, its face upwards with a silly grin plastered on it was Electrode. The attack was always a suicide attack and the swirls for eyes showed this.

"Both Electrode and Pikachu are unable to battle." Visquez said regaining her footing once everything had settled down and staring in utter shock at the devastation the Explosion had caused. "Therefore it is a tie. Both trainers now only have one Pokémon left. This next battle will decide the match."

"Electrode return." Surge said seriously as he recalled the Pokémon. "Well done soldier, you did as asked and went above the call of duty. That was a damned powerful Explosion, your training really has paid off. I will make sure that your sacrifice is not in vain."

"One sec." Ash said as he ran over to the side to pass Pikachu up to Misty. "Pikachu doesn't like his Poke Ball so I have to hand him over to Misty."

"Of course." Surge said with a nod of respect at Pikachu. "Take a moment."

"Here, take care of Pikachu." Ash said passing him up to Misty as he slowly came around. "I think there is an Oran berry in my bag somewhere, that will help until we can get him to the Pokémon Center."

"I will, win this baby." Misty said as she put down her pom poms took Pikachu and annoyed that there was just too much of a gap to lean down and kiss Ash for luck. "I love you."

"Will do, love you too." Ash said as he headed back to his box.

Misty turned and laid Pikachu down on a nearby seat that was fortunately undamaged. She was bruised from hitting the seats but that was nothing compared to Pikachu who had taken the brunt of the attack. She quickly fished out an Oran berry and gave it to the Mouse Pokémon. Pikachu had enough energy to slowly eat it and he felt some more energy return to him but he wouldn't be moving much for a while.

"Look after him guys." Misty said and her Pokémon all nodded, Buneary and Eevee jostling with each other to be at Pikachu's side and nurse him back to health and fawn over him. "I need to be there for Ash."

Misty turned back to the match. It had been as good as she had expected, if a little more destructive, and she couldn't wait to see how it ended. This was Ash after all, something exciting was bound to happen to end the battle.

"Well it is all down to this Ash." Surge said as he pulled out his last Poke Ball. "A one on one match to decide it all, just like last time. I was hoping this would go to the wire."

"Same." Ash said pulling out Palpitoad's ball. "This is just the challenge I needed and expected from you. I'm glad I've decided to challenge the gym leaders again, they're all showing me more than I could have ever thought about my Pokémon and their skills."

"That is our job though this Pokémon is a special test." Surge said tossing the ball in his hand but not throwing it out just yet. "You see, I recently, during the break we gym leaders get while the Indigo Conference was on, to travel out to Mt. Coronet in Sinnoh for some special training. This is what I came back with as I achieved my goal there. It will be its first battle in this form, I was hoping that you would be the trainer I could test it against. Someone of your skills will give me a fair assessment of its battle abilities."

"I am honored." Ash said with a nod before he threw Palpitoad's ball and the Vibration Pokémon appeared on the battlefield again still smiling widely. "I look forward to this final challenge. I want your best so show me and Palpitoad what you have to offer Surge."

"With pleasure." Surge said as he threw out his last Poke Ball. "Magnezone, bring the thunder!"

The ball burst and a flying saucer of a Pokémon with two angry eyes and 3 magnet forks, two under its eyes and one being it, appeared in front of Ash. As soon as Ash saw the Magnet Area Pokémon he knew exactly why Surge had gone to Mt. Coronet for training. Ash had seen it with a Nosepass evolving into Probopass but Professor Rowan had said that evolving a Magneton into a Magnezone was the same way. Something about the high magnet field within Mt. Coronet allowed the Pokémon to evolve but they could only evolve there because they needed the field to evolve or something like that it was all beyond Ash's understanding.

"I should have expected a Magnezone or Probopass as soon as you said you were at Mt. Coronet." Ash said as he began to prepare a strategy. "That's why you were there."

"Yup me and Magnezone go way back." Surge said. "All the way back to when it was a small Magnemite. As soon as I learned that Mt. Coronet was the nearest place with the right conditions to evolve a Magneton I went there at my first opportunity. It is time for Magnezone to get some experience in this form."

"Then it's time to end this battle in style." Ash said with a grin. "Palpitoad, Sludge Wave."

"Fool." Surge said with a laugh as Palpitoad created the purple poison type attack and sent it right at Magnezone. "Now it's your turn to make a mistake Ash just as I did earlier. Take it and counter with Flash Cannon Magnezone."

"Huh?" Ash asked confused and then realization hit and he cursed himself for his stupidity, he had forgotten that Magnezone wasn't a pure electric type, it was also a steel type.

The attack hit Magnezone and as expected did nothing. Ash should have seen it but he always forgot that poison type moves had no effect on steel types like Magnezone. Ash didn't have many poison type Pokémon, in fact his only one was his Muk and he seldom used Muk, and few of his other Pokémon knew a poison type move. He also didn't have any steel type Pokémon so he often forgot about their high defensive abilities, something that surprised him give Surge's preference for offense. Ash paid for the mistake.

The powerful steel type attack that Surge had countered with slammed directly into Palpitoad's chest and sent him hurtling back and into the wall behind Ash. The only saving grace was that it was not very effective on Palpitoad given his ground typing. That was the biggest advantage Ash had in this battle but Surge wouldn't be a push over, not by a longshot.

"Keep it up Magnezone." Surge said grinning. "This matchup is a war of attrition because you are up against a ground type but we won't let it win. Hit it with Gyro Ball!"

"Palpitoad get up and dodge." Ash yelled as Magnezone sped its body up and launched the ball of steel type power. "You have to avoid it."

Palpitoad groaned as he got to his feet. The blow had hurt but not taken him out of the fight, not at all. He still had plenty to give. Unfortunately that was going to have to wait as Palpitoad saw the ball of steel type power bearing down on him fast. With a cry he obeyed his trainer and leapt over the ball but he was still winded and slowed from the earlier blow. The attack clipped his tail and sent him spinning forward before he again slammed down, hard. If he didn't do something soon then Palpitoad didn't know how much more he could hold on.

"Come on Palpitoad." Ash said encouragingly pouring his love and passion into his voice. "You can do it. Get up and keep fighting. You can still win. I know it!"

"Keep it up Magnezone." Surge said encouraging his own Pokémon. "Gyro Ball again and keep firing. We can't use electric type attacks but steel will weaken it over time. This is how we will win."

Palpitoad heard Ash and knew what his trainer said was true. His trainer believed in him, he had believed in him multiple times before and he was doing so again. Palpitoad had rarely let him down if he could help it. He had failed in gyms before but that had been a cheap Attract attack the first time from that damned flying rate and a poison damage enhancer had taken him down the second time. He would not fail Ash a third time.

He had already won two battles, he would win a third for Ash. That would show the others, and that water girl who was in heat for his trainer and who would train him for Ash so that he was at his peak when he called upon Palpitoad again. It would all show that he was a force who could compete with the big Pokémon Ash had. He was not going to lose to this damned oversized side plate.

As Palpitoad was getting to his feet, he leapt to the side and dodged another ball of steel type energy, this one grazing his side, Palpitoad felt it. Deep inside him the change was happing and he knew that it was time. Accepting it for the second time in his life, Palpitoad let it take over.

"Palpitoad!" He roared in his vibration like voice for the last time as he went white.

"What!" Surge bellowed. "No f-ing way!"

"Yes, that's what I'm talking about!" Ash said excitedly despite his shock. "Way to go Palpitoad."

Palpitoad then changed before their eyes. He grew taller, sprouted arms and the sacks on his body shifted. they were now on the backs of his hands, his shoulders, and two on his head. When the light faded his eyes were now red and his belly was no longer brown but a light blue.

"Seismitoad!" He roared in challenge.

"That's it, evolve for Ash and win this Seismitoad!" Misty cheered from her spot. "Show why Ash is the best!"

"Seismitoad, show that Magnezone your new power." Ash said knowing he had a momentary advantage with the shock of Palpitoad's sudden evolution. "Confuse it with Supersonic."

"Dodge that." Surge ordered as Seismitoad opened his mouth and sent out the sound-based attack. "Don't let it hit you."

It vibrated forward and right at Magnezone. However, the Magnet Area Pokémon was still an agile Pokémon while in the air and it dodged the attack with ease but Ash had been expecting that. The Supersonic was just a distraction for the real attack.

"Mud Shot!" Ash ordered as Magnezone was dodging the first attack.

Seismitoad understood what Ash wanted and tracked the electric type as it avoided his first attack before opening his mouth and spitting out a series of mud balls at it. With the distraction of dodging the Supersonic, Magnezone didn't notice the second attack until it slammed home and it let out a mechanical wail as it was blasted spinning away from the super effective attack. The attack had worked, Ash had won.

Except as Magnezone righted itself it showed that it was still floating and now out of the fight just yet. Ash had expected it to go down but it didn't. It was beat up, dirty, and badly injured but its eyes narrowed and ready to fight as it limped forward in the air.

"Ha thank you Ash." Surge said with a smile. "You have already taught me something about Magnezone."

"For what?" Ash asked confused for the first time all battle. "That should have taken it down."

"But it didn't because of my Magnezone's ability." Surge said happily. "The only way for Magnezone to still be floating is if it has the Sturdy ability like your Boldore. A Mud Shot attack against Magnezone's typing is a double super effect attack. When it comes from a fully evolved Pokémon like that Seismitoad, at least I am assuming its fully evolved, should have taking it out in one hit however Magnezone is still hovering so it has to have Sturdy as its ability. Still, it is badly damages so I say we end this now."

"I couldn't agree more." Ash agreed knowing what Surge wanted, he wanted Ash's most powerful attack. "Seismitoad, Hydro Pump!"

"Flash Cannon!" Surge ordered and they both knew that this was it, whichever attack won out would likely win the battle given the damage both Pokémon had taken.

Seismitoad opened his mouth and sent out a powerful blast of water right at Magnezone, usually it wouldn't be as effective as he'd have liked but with the damage it would take the Pokémon out if it was a direct hit. Magnezone focused all of its steel type power between its fore magnets and then sent it out in a single blast.

The two attacks met with a bang at midfield as the Pokémon poured all of their power into their attacks trying to overcome the other's will for their respective trainers and friends. One had to give and it did. The Mud Shot attack had been just a little too much for Magnezone and the evolution had restored enough energy into Seismitoad to give him the edge in the end.

The water overpowered the steel and cut through the Flash Cannon, dispersing it and barreling down on Magnezone in a powerful jet. Magnezone had no energy left to dodge and just closed its eyes accepting its defeat. The Hydro Pump hit it full in face and sent it flipping backwards and into the wall behind Surge.

There was a small explosion of dust from the impact but compared to the earlier explosion it was nothing. When it settled, Magnezone was neatly buried half in and half out of the wall at a slight angle, its prongs limp and its eyes swirls. It was over, Ash had won.

"Magnezone is unable to battle." Visquez said in stunned amazement at the entire battle she'd just seen as she raised her flag for the last time. "Seismitoad is the winner. Lt. Surge is out of Pokémon, therefore the winner is Ash from Pallet Town."

"Magnezone, return." Surge said with a smile, it had been a good battle just as he had expected, Ash hadn't disappointed him. "Take a rest soldier, you did your best. That was a serious disadvantage we had if you took a Mud Shot, which you did, and evolving during will throw anyone off. We got really unlucky there but I promise you, we will get stronger."

"Woo, Ash wins again!" Misty said cheering before she threw down her pom poms and vaulted over the edge, crouching on landing though not entirely avoiding the pain from the long drop before running to her boyfriend.

"Seismitoad, we did it and you evolved, I'm so proud of you." Ash said running forward and hugging his newly evolved Pokémon who hugged him back enthusiastically and lifted him up crushing him in his new arms, something he wasn't yet used to. "Alright buddy I love you too but we, mainly Dawn when you get to her tomorrow, will need to teach you how to use your arms."

All Seismitoad did was lick Ash in response and hug him even tighter. Ash returned his Pokémon and thanked him for being key to his victory and taking down 3 of Surge's Pokémon in the process.

As soon as Ash returned Seismitoad and was free Misty took his place by throwing herself into his arms and was kissing him before he could react. All Ash could do was hold her and respond in kind. This was becoming a habit for them after Ash's full battle challenges and Ash was perfectly fine with it.

"Ash." Surge said with a clearing of his throat and Ash and Misty broke apart blushing furiously at the public display of affection but turning to face the former soldier and standing tall before the imposing man who was now standing before him with Visquez at his side.

"Sir." Ash said respectfully, the man's aura of authority hitting him hard.

"Congratulations." Surge said holding out his hand and Ash shook it, trying hard not to wince at the pain of Surge's crushing grip. "That was the best battle I've had in years. I rarely get to use a full team or face a trainer of your skills. You have grown a lot since last we battled and it was a true pleasure to battle you. That was one hell of a comeback you managed against me. That Seismitoad of yours is a force to reckon with."

"It really was a great battle." Ash agreed with a nod. "You really pushed me to the edge and had me on the ropes for a while. You challenged me the way I expected and wanted. I knew that Seismitoad would be the key I just hoped not to rely on him as much as I did. In the future I will strategize better. I have at least 4 more full battles coming up, I will take what I learned today and apply them to those battles as well."

"I hope that one day we meet again and have another battle." Surge said. "Then we can see how much better we both have gotten. However, I will have some different Pokémon next time."

"Sir?" Visquez asked confused. "What do you mean?"

"I mean that my battle with Ash here has made me realize what I truly miss about being a trainer." Surge said seriously. "Traveling, training and bonding with your unit as you go through the challenges that a journey throws at you. My trip to Sinnoh for Magnezone was a good start but I think it is time I once again head out and into the world. Ash used two Unova Pokémon against me that I had never seen before. I handled the first fine but the second was that Seismitoad and I couldn't figure it out."

"Yeah both were really useful while I was out in Unova." Ash said. "There are a lot of Pokémon out there and none are native to Kanto so they're really useful in battles here as few have seen or faced them before."

"That is a good battle strategy to have, one only traveling can give you." Surge complemented. "I was at a disadvantage because I had never seen those Pokémon before. I could tell that Boldore was a rock type so Brick Break worked fine but I couldn't tell that Palpitoad was a ground type as well as a water type until I hit it with Thunder and that threw me."

"I used a similar strategy with Palpitoad against the Nimbasa City Gym Leader as well as she is also an electric type specialist." Ash said. "Though she had a different strategy to beat him that worked but Attract will do that If the genders are different."

"That it will." Surge agreed keeping that piece of info away just in case, it was a good strategy to deal with ground types. "All of this has made me realize that I need to learn more of the world beyond this continent and that is why I am now going to head to Unova with just Raichu by my side and see it for myself. After that I will probably head to the other far flung regions. There are so many electric types to catch and master and I want to see them all."

"But sir, what about the gym?" Visquez asked confused. "Who will run it without you? You are the still the leader her."

"Why you of course, you are ready for this responsibility." Surge said slapping the shocked woman on her on the back. "Consider this a battlefield promotion of sorts. Visquez, I name you acting gym leader of the Vermilion Gym in my stead while I am away. I will resume the mantle when I return but until then the gym is yours."

"Sir." Visquez said snapping to attention and saluting her CO. "I will not fail you in this assignment, I will live up to this promotion. I will run this gym as you would and keep it safe until your return. I will also make sure that this battle is never forgotten by those who chose to train at this gym. It will go down in gym lore."

"I expect no less." Surge said returning the salute before turning to Ash. "Ash, again it was a pleasure, I look forward to our next meeting. Don't wait 7 years again though, I want to face you sooner than that."

"I won't." Ash said and they shook again. "I promise."

"Good now go to the Pokémon Center and get your Pokémon healed, I am sure that your girlfriend wants you all to herself now given her enthusiastic congratulations of your win." Surge said and Ash and Misty just blushed as he laughed. "Come Visquez, we have some paperwork to do for the Pokémon League so that you can serve as acting gym leader. Then it is off to Unova for me, after a quick trip to the Pokémon Center for my Pokémon and several days cleaning up this mess."

With that Surge and Visquez just turned and left the gym. Ash and Misty really wanted to talk about the battle and break it down, it had been one hell of a battle, but they couldn't just yet. Surge was right, they needed to get Ash's team to the Pokémon Center right away. Without another word, they headed back to the stands to get Pikachu and return all of Misty's Pokémon to their Poke Balls and then head back to the Pokémon Center.

Ash had now won 3 battles and soon Misty would be in her second Contest going for her second ribbon. Things were going well and they both wondered what would their journey bring next. Neither knew but both were looking forward to facing it the way they faced all adventures; together.