Pokémon Black and White
Chapter Forty-Two
The Battle Tournament Continues
"Ladies and gentlemen, the Club Battle's temperature is going up minute by excitement-charged minute!" Freddy's voice rings out in the arena. "With a beautiful and extremely rare seven feather top class Driftveil wing set hanging in the balance! So, hang onto your seats because our next match will be—" the massive screen behind him and Don George changes, soon showing the portraits of Cilan and Trip. "Trip versus Striaton City Gym Leader Cilan!"
Enthusiastic cheers ripple throughout the spectators. Meanwhile, with a broad grin on his face, Luke looks around the arena with his camera, ending on a close-up of Ash's face in profile. Trip and Cilan make their way to the battlefield, soon standing upon opposite ends.
"So, Don George," Freddy says, turning to his co-commentator. "How do you see this next battle shaping up?"
"Freddy, the fact is Cilan is one of the three gym leaders of the Striaton Gym." Don George says. "And that means he's gonna be one tough opponent. No doubt."
On the battlefield, Cilan and Trip begin talking with one another.
"I remember your battle at the Striaton Gym." Cilan says. "Perhaps some of that flavor will emerge here."
"My Pokémon and I have come a long way since then." Trip asserts. "I'm sure our battle today will be much more exciting than when I beat your brother: Gym Leader Chili."
Meanwhile, conversations take place in the competitors' rest area.
"Can't wait to see what kind of battle Cilan and Trip are gonna have!" Ash says.
"I wonder how much stronger Trip's gotten since we last saw him." Misty says.
"Trip really seems confident." Iris observes. "But I can't imagine Cilan actually losing."
"I can!"
The sudden appearance of Burgundy to their left has Ash looking on in confusion, Misty with irritation and Iris recoiling back in surprise.
"And he will!" Burgundy asserts. Arms crossed over her chest, an agitated frown on her face, she looks upon the battlefield with an icy gaze. "I want Cilan to get the smackdown of his connoisseur life! And I hope that Trip delivers it!"
A growl escaping her, Burgundy takes to punching the air. "Who cares if he's an A class connoisseur?! I want revenge!"
"All right!" the referee shouts, right arm raised high. He brings it down with a decisive chop. "Begin!"
"All right, Dwebble," Cilan says. With a graceful twirl, he tosses the Poké Ball into the air, releasing his Pokémon onto the field. "Let's go!"
"Dweb!"
"Gurdurr, you're up!" Trip says, throwing out his Poké Ball, releasing his Pokémon onto the field.
Trip's Gurdurr appears with a confident smirk on its face. Gurdurr twirls the steel beam in its right hand thrice before slamming it down on the ground. A small cloud of dust is kicked up from the impact.
"Gurdurr!"
"Whoa, a Gurdurr!" Ash observes.
"That's one intense looking Pokémon!" Bianca remarks, hugging her arms.
"Gurdurr, the Muscular Pokémon." Ash's Pokédex says as soon as he brings it out. "And the evolved form of Timburr! Gurdurr trains its muscles by carrying a steel beam! With its amazing strength, even professional wrestlers can't move it!"
"Wow, it evolved!" Ash remarks, pocketing his Pokédex. "That was the Timburr we battled!"
"We'll make the first move!" Cilan declares. "Dwebble, X-Scissor!"
Dwebble charges forward, crossing its claws in front of its body. They glow with a purplish, light blue energy.
"Gurdurr, dodge it!" Trip orders.
Using its steel beam, Gurdurr expertly out-maneuvers Dwebble's attack. One hand on the top of the steel beam, Gurdurr propels itself into the air and out of Dwebble's line of attack. Suspended in the air, Gurdurr swings around the steel beam twice before slamming back down on the ground. Its features darkening, it chuckles at Dwebble.
"Dweb Dwebble!" it mutters, eyes narrowing.
"Now, Dwebble, use Slash!" Cilan orders.
Dwebble's right claw glowing a bright white, it charges forward for another attack.
"Gurdurr, keep your distance!" Trip orders.
Gurdurr follows up its trainer's command by spinning its steel beam in the air thrice before slamming it right into Dwebble. The onslaught manages to stop the Slash attack but not much else. Jumping up and over Gurdurr's head, Dwebble lands in front of Cilan, entirely unharmed.
"Dweb!" it shouts; a curt taunt.
"Gurdurr's using its steel beam with great skill!" Freddy remarks. "Dwebble can't even get close!"
"It's nice to see a great defense like that being utilized!" Don George says. "However, Dwebble's strength is not inconsequential; it took a blow from Gurdurr's steel beam without injury!"
"Gurdurr, Rock Smash!" Trip orders.
A grave expression on its face, Gurdurr sets aside its steel beam. Raised into the air, Gurdurr's right fist shines with a orangish-white light. Letting loose a battle cry, Gurdurr charges straight for Dwebble.
"Quick, Dwebble!" Cilan says. "Get away!"
Given Gurdurr's proximity, Dwebble is unable to heed its trainer's orders. Instead, Dwebble retreats into his shell the same moment Gurdurr's Rock Smash connects. It slams into the rock, sending a spiderweb of cracks along the surface.
Cilan gasps in worried astonishment.
"The rock on its back's been cracked!" Stephan says.
Pushing his glasses up by the bridge, Cheren says nothing.
Bianca looks at Stephan, her lips pursed in thought. With two animated shakes of her head, she directs her attention back to the battlefield.
"Poor Dwebble!" she cries, looking between Ash and Cheren. "That's not good, right? Right."
"All Gurdurr has to do is keep it up and I'll be one happy connaisseuse." Burgundy remarks.
"Geez, you're easily satisfied." Misty mutters, her words going unheeded.
Iris growls, her eyes scrunched shut. They fly open, Iris lifting her hands to the sides of her mouth. "C'mon Cilan! Don't let him beat you!"
Dwebble emerges from its shell then, casting a reproachful glance at its damaged home.
"Dwebble, you can do it!" Ash adds.
"Pika Pika!"
"Use Rock Smash, once more!" Trip orders.
Its fist glowing orange, Gurdurr advances for another Rock Smash.
"Now, Dwebble, retreat!" Cilan orders.
Dwebble skitters backwards, evading Gurdurr's Rock Smash with time to spare. Gurdurr's fist connects uselessly with the ground.
"Use Stone Edge!"
Picking up its steel beam, Gurdurr crosses its arms over its chest. Two lines of rotating shapes materialize, glowing white. The shapes solidify into chunks of gray stone; the formation of the Stone Edge. With a groan, Gurdurr fires the Stone Edge attack at its opponent.
Dwebble doesn't have an opportunity to react as each and every one of the rocks hits its mark, dealing super-effective damage to Dwebble. The attack sends Dwebble reeling. Low to the ground, it's a few paces from Cilan.
"Dwebble, no!" Cilan cries.
"Oui!" Burgundy cries. Her hands in fists, she's practically vibrating with anticipatory excitement. "Oui! Truly beautiful!"
Ash and his friends look on in dismay.
"And Gurdurr lands a ground-shaking and powerful Stone Edge!" Freddy bellows.
"Mhm." Don George agrees, giving a brisk nod. "It was a super-effective move!"
Back in the stands, Hilbert has to hold Hilda back from storming down to the arena.
"All this battling's making me wish we entered the tournament." she grouses.
"C'mon Hilda, there'll be plenty of other tournaments." Hilbert says, his words not his actions placating his friend. "Don George will make sure of it. Besides, we both need to rest up for our next gym battle. Training can come later."
"I'll hold you to that." Hilda mutters.
The two lapse into silence, watching the unfolding battle.
"Man, am I getting the best footage!" Luke cheers down near the battlefield, his camera currently on a wounded Dwebble. "This is gonna turn out great! My best movie ever!"
"And the battle tournament's hardly begun, too." Cheren interjects.
Golett throws its arm into the air in a cheer whilst Zorua snickers.
"Dweb…" it mutters, struggling to get back on its feet.
"So, you're still not throwing in the towel." Trip observes. "I'm impressed."
"You've definitely grown stronger, Trip." Cilan praises. After a bit longer, Dwebble stands at its full height. "A much more palatable style. However, it's my turn!" with an elegant twirl, he spreads his arms out wide. "I call it: Evaluating Time!"
With a sigh, Iris crosses her arms on the railing separating the competitors from the battlefield. She rests her head upon them. As for Burgundy, her teeth clenched together, she angrily sways from side to side.
"Looks like we're in store for another Connoisseur Moment." Iris gripes.
"Axew." Axew agrees.
A wordless noise of protest on her lips, Burgundy takes to aggressive shadowboxing. "If it's Cilan's Evaluating Time, I want him to flunk!"
"Trip!" Cilan begins, pointing at him and his Gurdurr with his index finger, palm up. "Gurdurr has good technique and power, weaving them into harmonious attacks! I also admire Gurdurr's well-defined muscles, demonstrating a refreshing yet bold style!
"However!" he continues, jerking a thumb at himself. "Dwebble and I are going to emerge victorious! With offense! And defense! A recipe for success! A delicious pairing that surpasses even yours!"
"Dwebble!" it cries, jumping into the air.
"Yeah, you tell him, Cilan!" Ash cheers over Iris' groaning. "Go!"
"Pika!"
"Whatever!" Trip says. "Gurdurr, Dynamic Punch!"
Discarding its steel beam once more, Gurdurr extends its right fist high into the air. When it does, Gurdurr's fist glows orange, then red before burning with brilliant red-white flames. The flames dull, leaving Gurdurr's fist with a severe crimson hue. Gurdurr punches forward with Dynamic Punch a first time, then a second and third when it misses.
Having masterfully evaded the series of Dynamic Punches, Dwebble skitters to the far right corner of Cilan's side of the field. Meanwhile, a sneer on its face, Gurdurr glares at its opponent. Gurdurr picks up its steel beam, but makes no other moves.
Trip glares at the battlefield too, saying nothing. His eyes scan the battlefield, calculating his next move.
"Gurdurr!" Trip shouts. "Keep your distance!"
"Going on the defensive, hm?" Cilan muses. He snaps his fingers, pointing straight forward. "Very well, Dwebble and I shall go on the offensive! Dwebble, use Shell Smash!"
Following Cilan's commands, Dwebble discards his shell and leaps high into the air. Glowing a blinding white, red lines criss-cross Dwebble's body. Dwebble flexes its claws, white fragments from the Shell Smash floating in the air whilst its body glows a captivating orange.
"Alright, now use Rock Slide!" Cilan says.
Still suspended in the air - and reeling from the benefits of increased attack, special attack and speed at the cost of defense and special defense - Dwebble unleashes the Rock Slide attack. Several silvery portals materialize in the sky around Dwebble. They open up, revealing massive blocks of gray stone. In short order, Dwebble sends them crashing to the ground, straight for Gurdurr.
Trip has only enough time to let out a panicked "Gurdurr!" and for Gurdurr to stare up at the descending rockstorm with horror before the Rock Slide connects. They connect with Gurdurr and the ground, sending up enormous plumes of dust.
Gritting his teeth, Trip doesn't say anything.
"Dwebble's Rock Slide makes contact with brilliance and flair!" Freddy remarks, his passion on full display as he punches the air.
"Shell Smash decreases Dwebble's defense, but it also increases its offense, making Dwebble's Rock Slide an even more powerful attack!" Don George says.
"Wait!" Burgundy shouts. Eyes and fingers twitching, she grits her teeth in annoyance. "Is that allowed?!"
"'Course it is!" Iris says. "It's so cool that Dwebble can use Rock Slide!"
"Axew!"
Her arms crossed, Georgia stares at Iris out of the corner of her eye. "I think she was talking about Dwebble using Shell Smash."
"Great offense!" Ash shouts. "It's Comeback Time!"
"Pika!"
"Keep it up, Dwebble!" Misty adds.
"Marill."
The dust clears, showing Gurdurr nearly immobilized by the sediments left by Dwebble. Gurdurr's steel beam rests a few paces away, close, but not close enough.
"Gurdurr!" Trip cries, sweeping an arm through the air. "Get out of there! Use Rock Smash!"
Trip's commands ringing in Gurdurr's ear, its left fist - the one free appendage - glows orange. Gurdurr slams it into the rock holding it trapped. It doesn't immediately disintegrate, but cracks do spread throughout the surface.
"I disagree!" Cilan vehemently declares. "Now, Dwebble! I think it's Slash Time!"
Dwebble's right claw glowing a bright white, it advances on Gurdurr. Dwebble is intent on delivering the battle's finishing blow.
Gurdurr slams its fist into the rock, the number of cracks increasing.
Dwebble grows closer and closer.
Gurdurr slams its fist into the rock once more, a powerful Rock Smash attack.
Dwebble very nearly reaches Gurdurr.
It's just as Dwebble's about to land the Slash attack that one of the rocks trapping Gurdurr crumbles. It crumbles into pebbles, affording Gurdurr just enough time to free itself from the rocky tomb, pick up its steel beam and use it to block Dwebble's Slash.
"And once again, Gurdurr's sterling defense is on full display!" Freddy remarks.
"Dwebble's Rock Slide was truly impressive." Don George adds. "The way Gurdurr was able to use Rock Smash to avoid defeat is equally impressive."
Burgundy squeals in delight, the way the battle's proceeding giving her hope that Cilan may not emerge the victor after all.
The nearby competitors are silent, holding their breath.
"It's like I said," Trip says. He wears that same confident smile on his face, but something furious lingers beneath his words. "My Pokémon and I have come a long way since then! Gurdurr, win this with one last powerful Rock Smash!"
"Gurdurr!" Gurdurr mirrors Trip's expression, discarding its steel beam one last time.
Cilan straightens, a pensive grimace on his face. "Dwebble, attack with X-Scissor!"
The two Pokémon power up their respective attacks: Gurdurr's left fist glows orange; both of Dwebble's claws glow a purplish, light blue. They advance on each other, both Pokémon intent on leaving the battlefield as the victor.
It's when the two Pokémon are but a hair's breadth apart, right before they connect, that the victor is decided. Although Dwebble manages to land quite the effective X-Scissor - the attack earning a painful wince from Gurdurr - Gurdurr's attack is much more pronounced. Gurdurr slams his glowing fist right into Dwebble, the force sending the Bug-Type flying. Dwebble lands off-center from the battlefield, the telltale swirl in its eyes.
Trip looks on with satisfaction and no small amount of pride, emotions mirrored by his Gurdurr. Even as Gurdurr falls to one knee, panting, it smiles.
"Dwebble!" Cilan cries out, a distressed frown pulling at his lips.
"Dwebble is unable to battle!" the referee shouts. "Gurdurr wins!" he raises his right hand, indicating a smug Trip. "So, the winner is Trip!"
As another battle comes to a close, applause and cheers ring throughout the spectators.
On the massive screen behind Freddy and Don George, the screen updates to reflect the battle's outcome. The lightning bolt separating Trip and Cilan's profiles shines a brilliant white before it fades along with Cilan's portrait. Trip's portrait moves to the center of the screen, flames in the background as the word "WINNER" comes onto the screen from the left one letter at a time, glittering gold.
"Trip has won the first round!" Freddy announces. "Which means he moves on to round two!"
"It was truly a spectacular battle!" Don George adds. "Excellent power and skill! As expected of one of Unova's fiercest trainers."
"Trip will be quite the contender!" Freddy remarks. "I don't know about you, Don George, but I have great expectations. It's not everyday a trainer bests a gym leader on the first try!"
"Indeed!" Don George agrees with a sagelike nod. He crosses his arms over his chest, saying, "It takes a great deal of effort to emerge victorious against such a powerful opponent."
When Dwebble regains consciousness, it lets out a mournful "Dweb…". It reclaims its shell and its home, scurrying back to Cilan with its head down. Looking down at the ground, Cilan doesn't react to his Pokémon's appearance. The fingers of his left hand twitch, Cilan crouches to the ground to place a consoling hand on Dwebble's head.
"Dwebble, thanks!" Cilan says. "It was your great talent that made our battle such a treat!"
"Dweb!" it agrees with a quick nod.
Their attention is diverted by the sound of a camera flash. The two look up, noticing Trip standing nearby.
"I'm chronicling my journey." Trip explains. His camera's in one hand whilst Gurdurr's Poké Ball is in the other. He pockets the latter. There's a smile on his face, lacking the sharpness from earlier. "So I never forget this victory."
But the sharpness returns with a vengeance, his eyes narrowing, when Trip chances a look at the spectators in the competition rest area. When his eyes lock with Ash. Trip doesn't say anything more, vacating the battlefield without so much as a backward glance.
Cilan rises to his feet. The backs of his hands on his hips, he stares after Trip with a thoughtful half-smile. A half-smile that quickly morphs into a look of alarm when he finds Luke and his camera shoved in his face.
"I apologize if my performance was lackluster." Cilan says as, after a moment's deliberation, Dwebble hops onto Cilan's left shoulder. "It would seem my skills might have waned in my travels."
Cilan's perplexion only grows when Luke doesn't say anything. Luke simply stands there, camera pointed at Cilan's face, before letting out a snicker.
"COME ON!"
That acerbic shout filling the air, another Luke stands several feet away. He stomps onto the battlefield, intent on practicing a Glare on his doppelganger.
"That's my camera!" Luke cries, swiping the camera out of the other Luke's hands. He cradles the device close, much like a newborn. "So give it back!"
Cilan gives a quiet sound of realization as Luke - or rather, Zorua-as-Luke - jumps into the air in a familiar burst of pink energy. She comes to rest on the ground in her Pokémon form, that mischievous grin never faltering from her face.
Luke sighs deeply. "What am I gonna do with you?"
Back in the rest area where the competitors of the Nimbasa Town Battle Tournament are congregating, Burgundy is clearly quite pleased by the outcome of the most recent battle. Her arms thrown high into the air, she jumps up and down.
"C'est très belle!" Burgundy cries. She stops jumping, placing both hands over her heart. "Ah, to think I would finally witness Cilan losing in battle! Today is truly a wonderful day, par excellence!"
Having said her piece, Burgundy retreats into her own little world. Staring off into space, both her cheeks are glowing a bright pink.
Being the two closest to her, Iris and Georgia react to Burgundy's behavior. Iris pouts, glaring at Burgundy whilst Georgia merely crosses her arms and raises an eyebrow.
Their attention - as well as that of their friends and acquaintances - is disrupted further when a wordless cry of joy reaches their ears.
Bianca lets loose another joyful cry, jumping into the space between Ash and Iris.
"I've been waiting for this!" Bianca admits, beaming. "It's time for my battle!"
"And you're gonna be up against me!" Stephan says. Puffing his chest out, he jabs his thumb at his left shoulder. "So look out! You're next Ash, right after I win this battle!"
The comment earns a sound of curious dismay from Bianca. She puffs out her cheeks and looks askance.
"We'll just see about that." she mutters.
"We move onto battle number six!" Freddy announces as the portraits of Bianca and Stephan appear on the giant screen behind him. "Stephan versus Bianca!"
Stephan and Bianca make themselves comfortable on opposite sides of the battlefield: him with a far-off look in his eye; her, staring intently at her Poké Ball.
"Release your Pokémon." the referee says, glancing at Bianca first then Stephan.
"Right!" Bianca cries. She winds up her arm at an impressive speed, tossing her Poké Ball into the air. "It's time to show 'em how much we've improved! Come on out, Cinccino!"
"Wait, did she say Cinccino?!" Ash exclaims, fumbling for his Pokédex.
Next to him, Cheren merely smiles.
In the stands, Hilbert and Hilda raise their eyebrows.
Cinccino emerges from its Poké Ball with a smile and a laugh.
"All right!" Stephan shouts, throwing out his own Poké Ball. "Zebstrika, come on out!"
Zebstrika appears with a whinny, slamming its forehooves in the dirt.
"Cinccino, the Scarf Pokémon and the evolved form of Minccino." Ash's Pokédex recites. "Cinccino defends against its opponent's attacks using its specially coated white fur. Because of this unique coating, Cinccino brushes off attacks with ease."
"So, Minccino evolved…" Ash murmurs, pocketing his Pokédex.
"Cinccino looks a lot tougher, too!" Iris adds.
"And battle," the referee says, thrusting his arms high above his head. "begin!"
"'Kay, I'll make the first move!" Bianca asserts. "Cinccino, use Dig!"
"Dig?!" Misty cries.
"My, that provides an unexpected seasoning." Cilan remarks. "It's true Ground-type moves are effective against an Electric-type such as Zebstrika, however…"
Cilan and Misty share a look, remembering the behavior of Bianca's Cinccino when it was but a Minccino.
Cinccino burrows into the ground without a delay, leaving a hole in its wake.
"Keep an eye out, Zebstrika!" Stephan advises.
Zebstrika grunts in agreement, looking around. Its gaze on the battlefield, Zebstrika keeps its hooves firmly on the ground. By sensing the vibrations in the ground, Zebstrika can detect Cinccino's location before it can attack.
An idea that doesn't pan out in reality as Cinccino strikes. It bursts out of the ground directly beneath Zebstrika, slamming into its opponent with super-effective might.
Zebstrika is sent staggering back towards its trainer. One eye scrunched shut, it pants twice.
"Zebstrika!" Stephan says.
Cinccino, now covered with patches of dirt, stands in front of its trainer. Besides a grimace, Cinccino is unfazed by the battle.
"Wow, and I thought Cinccino wouldn't be able to battle!" Ash says. "Since it's covered in dirt like that."
"Bianca said she's been training." Misty says. "Looks like she wasn't joking."
Stephan grits his teeth, calling out an order of, "Zebstrika, use Shock Wave!"
Starting at its tail, Zebstrika's mane - as well as its entire body! - begins to glow with golden energy. Zebstrika focuses the energy between its horns, sparks crackling off of them. The energy culminates in a sphere of golden energy. Zebstrika rears its head back, channeling the orb into a stream of golden white lightning Zebstrika has aimed straight for Cinccino.
The Shock Wave is a direct hit, enveloping Cinccino in a powerful current of electricity.
Cinccino stands tall, glaring at Zebstrika.
"Cinccino, use Tickle!" Bianca says.
Leaping into the air, Cinccino descends upon Zebstrika without fear. Using its tail, Cinccino assaults Zebstrika with a countless number of ticklish manuevers.
"Cinccino, keep it up!" Bianca encourages.
"Go, go, Cinccino!" Iris cheers.
"Axew!"
"Pika!"
"Cinccino's looking pretty good." Ash remarks.
"Just wait until you see the rest of her Pokémon." Cheren advises. "What you see will leave you speechless."
"Ooh, I'm so psyched!" Ash says.
"Cinccino, Double-Slap!" Bianca orders with a half-twirl.
With its tail glowing a bright silver, Cinccino uses it to slap Zebstrika across the face twice.
"All right!" Bianca cries, holding her hands to either side of her mouth before thrusting her arms forward. "Use Hyper Voice!"
Curling its ears close to its head and puffing its cheeks out, Cinccino leans back as it readies the attack. Leaning forward, Cinccino opens its mouth and unleashes the ear-splitting power of a Hyper Voice upon Zebstrika.
(Quite a few spectators and Freddy cover their ears at the onslaught.)
Zebstrika is sent reeling once more, hooves skirting across the ground.
"Hang in there, Zebstrika!" Stephan shouts. "Show them both you can take it!"
Emboldened by Stephan's words, Zebstrika plants its hooves firmly on the ground. It stares at Cinccino, its gaze hard. Zebstrika lets loose a mighty battle cry, throwing its head back.
"Alright, now it's our turn!" Stephan declares. "Use Shock Wave!"
Zebstrika's body glows with golden energy once more. Gathering the energy between its horns, Zebstrika fires another stream of electricity right for Cinccino.
Considering the speed and efficiency of Zebstrika's Shock Wave, Cinccino can only gape in distress before being swallowed up by the Electric-type attack. Cinccino is the one sent reeling. Standing in front of its trainer, blinking twice, Cinccino pants once.
"Cinccino, stay strong!" Bianca says.
"Wrap it up with Stomp!" Stephan orders.
Zebstrika presses the attack, advancing on Cinccino. Before Cinccino can recover, Zebstrika rears back and slams both forehooves into Cinccino.
The result is a crater in the ground with a fainted Cinccino at the center.
"Cinccino is unable to battle!" the referee shouts, raising his right hand in direction of Stephan. "So, Zebstrika's the winner! And Stephan wins the match!"
Stephan stares at the referee in muted shock before running over to Zebstrika.
"Way to go, Zebstrika!" he shouts, hugging Zebstrika's neck.
"Aww, Cinccino!" Bianca says, picking up her battered Pokémon. Keeping Cinccino supported with one arm, she uses her free hand to pull out an orange handkerchief. Bianca wipes the dirt from Cinccino's face, earning a grateful smile from her Pokémon. "You okay?"
"Ccino." it says, nodding briskly.
Bianca smiles, brushing away more dirt from Cinccino's body with her handkerchief. She returns to the competitors' rest area in silence, returning Cinccino to its Poké Ball soon after. The first one she sees is Cheren, standing nearby with his arms crossed. She opens her mouth to say something, only to be derailed by exuberance that could give her a run for her money.
"Bianca, you and Cinccino were amazing!" Iris gushes.
"Ax Axew!" it agrees, a claw raised in a facsimile of a thumbs-up.
"You've gotten a whole lot stronger since we last battled!" Ash adds with a chuckle. "Makes me wanna battle you that much more!"
"Your battling style does possess a startling new array of spices." Cilan adds.
"I might have to battle you now, too." Misty says with an enthusiastic cheer from Marill. "You helped your Minccino evolve and we can really see all the effort you've put in!"
Bianca, under the deluge of positive attention in spite of her loss, can do naught but blush. Her entire face redder than a Tamato Berry, she looks down at Cinccino's Poké Ball. "Thank you…"
Out of sight of the others, Cheren smiles brightly, the barest dusting of crimson on his cheeks.
The next two battles pass by in a blur. Battle number seven and battle number eight end in a victory for Luke and Iris.
For Luke's battle with Scooter, Luke pits his Golett against Scooter's Darmanitan. The two ram into each other several times, trying to knock the other out with their sheer physical might. But, with a well-timed, well-placed Shadow Punch from Golett, Darmanitan is rendered unable to battle and Luke clinches the win.
As for Iris, her Emolga faces off against Jimmy Ray's Watchog. There's no room for nerves; Iris began the battle with a bold declaration for Emolga to use Attract. The attack worked, Jimmy Ray's Watchog falling over himself in enamored bliss. After that, it's a simple matter of Emolga using Hidden Power - the attack glowing green - to knock Watchog out and secure the victory.
Just as Iris and Jimmy Ray are vacating the battlefield, Freddy is already getting the crowd excited for the penultimate battle of the first round.
"Battle number nine will be between Misty and Cheren!" Freddy announces. "And I believe it's sure to be one incredible match! Turns out Cilan isn't the only gym leader battling today! Not only is she a gym leader, but she hails from the Kanto region!"
"Misty is a fierce competitor!" Don George adds, arms crossed over his chest. "It's said that her policy is an all-out offensive with Water-type Pokémon! Whatever the outcome, this upcoming battle is one bout you can't look away from!"
"I completely agree!" Freddy says with two vigorous nods of his head. "No matter what, you should never underestimate a gym leader!"
"They're really getting into it." Ash remarks. Looking over at the commentators, he grimaces. "Misty hasn't even gotten to the field yet!"
"It's not every day that you get to see a gym leader in battle." Iris reasons.
"Especially from another region!" Stephan cheers. Nostrils flaring, he clenches his right hand into a fist. "Man, I can't wait for this battle to get started!"
Cilan hums in agreement. "Speaking from experience, Misty is quite the exceptional trainer. No matter what Pokémon she sends out, it's bound to make for a truly exquisite dish!"
No one, least of all Cilan, notices how Burgundy's good cheer fractures. It fractures, splintering for just a moment as she glares at her self-proclaimed nemesis.
Misty and Cheren stand on opposite sides of the battlefield, neither looking at all perturbed by the enthusiasm of the crowd nor the commentators.
"Misty calls Frillish!"
Arms crossed above her head at the wrist, Misty performs a little twirl. A prideful smirk coming to rest on her face, she throws out her Poké Ball. In a flash of light, Frillish appears on the battlefield. She bows and smiles, her cool gaze never wavering from Cheren.
Cheren smirks, throwing out his own Poké Ball with a cry of, "It's time to battle, Samurott!"
Cheren's Samurott appears on the battlefield, returning Frillish's gaze with one just as icy.
"All right!" the referee shouts. He crosses his arms over his chest, forming an "X". "Are the challengers ready?"
"Ready!" Misty and Cheren declare, their Pokémon's focus unwavering.
"Battle," the referee says. Thrusting his arms forward in a slicing motion, they drop to his sides. "begin!"
"I think I'll make the first move!" Misty says before the referee had even stopped speaking. "Frillish, use Rain Dance!"
Frillish jumps into the air, descending with a twirl. She twirls once more, lifting her arms high to the sky before quickly bringing them back down. Menacing storm clouds gather above the battlefield, soon unleashing a deluge of water. Whilst it rains upon the battlefield, Misty and Cheren as well as the stadium proper are safe and dry.
Saying nothing, Bianca's eyes are bright, her cheeks tinged a faint pink.
"A bold choice." Cheren remarks. "Although it powers up Frillish's attacks, it increases Samurott's strength as well!"
"That just means I have to make sure I dodge your attacks!" Misty reasons. "Frillish, use Water Gun!"
Puffing her cheeks out, Frillish spews a torrent of water straight for Samurott.
"Dodge and use Hydro Pump!" Cheren commands.
Samurott sidesteps the Water Gun. Glowing a deep blue, the light fades from it as an orb of shifting water takes shape in Samurott's jaws. Samurott fires, intent on striking Frillish.
"Avoid that, Frillish!"
Frillish never gives Samurott the chance. With an effortless pirouette, Frillish maneuvers out of the attack's path. However, as Frillish winces in pain, it would seem she didn't move fast enough. Samurrot managed a glancing blow on her.
"That was lucky." Misty remarks.
"You'll find that Samurott and I are only just beginning!" Cheren asserts.
The two trainers share a confident smirk, their Pokémon only looking more determined.
"A perfect display of grace and strength." Don George remarks. "Frillish moves about the battlefield with a fluidity that many have come to expect from Water Pokémon."
Misty beams.
"Indeed!" Freddy agrees. "While Samurott is like an iron wall! Unyielding and strong, it'll be a tough Pokémon to beat!"
Cheren smirks.
"Use Hydro Pump!"
"Samurott, you too!"
Puffing her cheeks out once more, Misty's Frillish fires a great torrent of water. It arcs through the air, glittering in the sunlight. Meanwhile, Cheren's Samurott's body glows a deep blue. It flashes bright for just a moment before fading. An orb of shifting water taking shape within Samurott's jaws, it fires its own Hydro Pump.
The two attacks meet at an equidistant point; they crash into each other, battling for several moments before evaporating. They're evenly matched.
"Astonishing!" Freddy remarks. Gripping his microphone in one hand, he stands up, slamming his free hand on the announcer's desk. "Folks, what we're witnessing is not only the effects of a Rain Dance, but the result of tireless training!"
"Freddy is correct." Don George adds with a sagelike nod. "It's a rare gift to witness two attacks that are equal in power!"
"Wow, that Samurott's really strong!" Iris remarks. "It totally got rid of Frillish's attack!"
Cilan inhales deeply through his nose, letting it out through his mouth. "This is truly the exquisite battle! It's quite astonishing, witnessing how Frillish dances across the field, just out of reach of Samurott's bold attacks! One could never guess that Misty and Frillish have only known each other for a short time!"
He sighs, gripping his shirt - right over his heart - with both hands. "Samurott isn't to be underestimated either! With the implacable resolve of a glacier, it maintains a cool focus! Perfect for finding just the right moment to strike!" he sighs, light and happy. "The mark of expert training!"
"I don't really understand what you're saying," Stephan admits, arms crossed over his chest. "But Misty's Frillish and Cheren's Samurott are really something else!"
"I have to hand it to them." Georgia adds begrudgingly. "Those two definitely aren't your standard run-of-the-mill trainers. Unlike some people."
"And it's providing some of the best footage I've gotten!" Luke exclaims over the sound of Iris' quiet fuming.
There are two that are a bit more enthusiastic with their adulation.
"You can do it, Cheren!" Bianca shouts, hands on either side of her mouth. "Show 'em how much we've been training!"
"C'mon, Misty!" Ash shouts, using one hand to punch the air, the other is to the side of his mouth. "The two of you can do it! You and your Water Pokémon make for one awesome team!"
Smiling, Ash and Bianca place their hands on the guard rail separating the rest area from the battlefield. Their eyes widen for a moment, the two looking at each other. Still smiling, electricity arcs between their eyes. They say nothing.
"Frillish, use Hydro Pump!"
"Dodge and use Razor Shell, Samurott!"
Frillish releases another torrent of water at her opponent. Samurott moves out of the way of the blast. However, as some of the water splashes Samurott, causing it to wince, it didn't move fast enough.
Using its right paw, Samurott draws the seamitar from the left sheath. The weapon glows bright and blue, extending by a few inches. Charging forward, Samurott aims for a diagonal slash along Frillish's body. Given the ferocity of the attack, Frillish is unprepared. She cries out, taking the full brunt of the Razor Shell."
"Frillish!" Misty cries.
Frillish winces, letting out a pant, but remains standing.
"Samurott is in excellent shape," Cheren is saying, the Rain Dance dissipating from the battlefield. "wouldn't you agree?"
Misty scoffs. "You've definitely trained it well. But it's like I said: underestimate my Water Pokémon and that'll be your last mistake!"
"I haven't forgotten." Cheren remarks, smirking.
Frillish pants once more. Standing up straight, she stares at Samurott.
"Frillish!" Misty calls, thrusting an arm out. "Use Ominous Wind!"
Waving her arms out in front of her, Frillish's eyes become outlined in a deep red. At the same time, a mysterious violet wind is at her back. It rushes through the air, relentless as it crashes into Samurott.
The force of the air current is severe; it sends Samurott back several paces. It falls to one knee.
"And Frillish strikes back with a powerful Ominous Wind!" Don George says.
"Putting its Ghost-typing on full display!" Freddy adds. "How will Samurott strike back?!"
Frillish retreats a pace, looking satisfied.
Cheren pushes his glasses up by the bridge, thrusting his arm out. "Use Hydro Pump!"
"Frillish, you too!" Misty orders. "Show 'em how strong you are!"
"Frillish!" she cries with a nod.
The two Pokémon don't need any further prompting. Taking a moment to prepare themselves, Frillish and Samurott unleash powerful streams of water at each other. Like before, the two meet at an equidistant point, vying for dominance. Even without a Rain Dance boosting their abilities, the two Hydro Pumps are a sight to behold.
Unlike before, it soon becomes apparent which Pokémon possesses greater strength. Frillish's Hydro Pump battles with Samurott's for just a moment longer before it starts pushing it back. Frillish takes a single step forward and with it, her Hydro Pump not only overpowers Samurott's, her attack slams into Samurott. Samurott crashes to the ground with an upheaval of dust. When the dust clears, it shows an unconscious Samurott.
Cheren's eyes widen, blinking several times. He smiles, adjusting his glasses by the rim. "Interesting." is all he says.
"You did it, Frillish!" Misty cheers, throwing both hands in the air.
"Frillish!" she cries happily, eyes falling shut in triumphant bliss.
"Samurott is unable to battle!" the referee shouts. "Frillish wins!" he raises his left hand, indicating Misty. "So, the winner is Misty!"
Applause and cheers punctuate the referee's verdict.
On the massive screen behind Freddy and Don George, the screen updates to reflect the battle's outcome. The lightning bolt separating Cheren and Misty's profiles shines a brilliant white before it fades along with Cheren's portrait. Misty's portrait moves to the center of the screen, flames in the background as the word "WINNER" comes onto the screen from the left one letter at a time, glittering gold.
With their battle at an end, Misty and Cheren return to their friends.
"That was awesome, Misty!" Ash exclaims, the two exchanging a high five.
"Thanks Ash!" Misty says, giving Frillish's Poké Ball an appreciative pat. "Frillish battled really well! I can't wait to get some actual training done!"
"To think: this was Frillish's illustrious premiere!" Cilan remarks, giving a slight incline of his head. "I'm speechless!"
"Samurott battled really hard, too!" Iris says, looking to Bianca. "You too, Bianca! It makes me wonder about the rest of your Pokémon!"
"Looks like that may have to wait for another day." Cheren asserts easily. "Today's battle has shown me my Pokémon and I require further training."
At the announcer's table, Freddy is talking to the crowd about the upcoming battle.
"It's been an exciting day filled with incredible battles!" he says, the screen behind him changing to show only raging orange flames. "This next battle will not only be the last battle of the first round, but the last one of the day as well!"
"It pits the two victors from the preliminary round against each other!" Don George adds, the screen behind him updating to show Georgia and Dino's portraits. "Battle number ten - and the last battle of today's proceedings - will be between Georgia and Dino!"
Raucous cheers and a smattering of applause rises from the spectators at that. As for Georgia and Dino, the two are already making their way to the battlefield. They both bring out a Poké Ball, staring each other down. Georgia chances a glance at the competitors' rest area, the smirk on her face annoying Iris.
"Watch and learn, Iris!" she calls, throwing her Poké Ball into the air and catching it. "It's not everyday you get to see a Dragon Buster battle more than once!"
Her hands fists at her side, Iris fires back with a retort of, "You should be focusing on the battle!"
Georgia merely chuckles, shrugging her shoulders.
"Are the competitors ready?" the referee asks.
Georgia and Dino answer by releasing their Pokémon of choice: a Pawniard and a Darumaka.
"Who's that Pokémon?" Ash wonders, bringing out his Pokédex.
"Pawniard, the Sharp Blade Pokémon." the Pokédex recites. "Pawniard's entire body is made of blades which it uses to inflict damage on its opponents."
Iris scoffs. "What's she thinking sending a Pawniard against a Darumaka?"
"It is rather odd." Cilan admits. "Georgia's recipe possesses a most unpleasant aroma."
"Pawniard is a Steel-type against Darumaka, a Fire-type." Cheren elaborates. "But I imagine Georgia plans for such a disadvantage."
"Battle," the referee says, sweeping both hands through the air. "begin!"
The battle between Georgia and Dino doesn't last for very long.
Although Dino's Darumaka managed to land a powerful and super-effective Fire Punch, it wasn't enough to secure his victory. Georgia's Pawniard was singed and winded from the attack, but it quickly turned the battle around in its favor. Pawniard attacked with a Metal Sound and, as Darumaka was reeling from the ear-splitting volume, Pawniard quickly ended the battle with a splendid Metal Claw.
"And Georgia is the winner!" Freddy announces as the screen behind him updates accordingly. "Now," he continues, the screen changing to accommodate his next words. Two rows of four portraits appear on the screen:Antonio, Ash, Trip and Stephan in the top row; Luke, Iris, Misty and Georgia in the bottom row. "up on the big screen are the eight trainers moving on to the second round!"
"Remember!" Don George says. "Tomorrow we have round two and then the semifinals. I suggest all our trainers get back to the Pokémon Center and get lots of rest! That's all, you're dismissed!"
With the Nimbasa Town Battle Tournament at a close for the day, that left the participants - spectators and competitors alike - to their own devices. Most of the spectators went home whilst some struck up conversation with each other and some of the competitors. As for Ash, Misty and their friends, they split off from the group proper.
The excitement, the unfolding events, of the tournament taking its toll.
It's just as Ash, Misty, Iris and Cilan are making their way to Nurse Joy, intent on healing their Pokémon, when they spot a familiar face picking up his Poké Ball from the desk.
"Thanks again, Nurse Joy." Trip says, a fleeting smile on his face.
"Hey, Trip!" Ash says, running up to him. "You and Gurdurr were totally amazing today!"
"Mhm." frowning deeply, Trip doesn't do much more than hum noncommittal.
"I agree." Cilan adds. "I thought for sure that Dwebble and I would end up the victors."
"I guess I was just the stronger trainer." Trip remarks, earning a heated glare from Iris.
"What's that—!" Iris starts, Misty's hand on her shoulder and a shake of her head quelling her anger for the moment.
"The Pokémon Center and Don George are putting together a huge feast in honor of the competition!" Ash says, jerking a thumb behind him. "We were just on our way—"
"Listen Ash," Trip says, the suddenness of his words and the way he takes an aggressive step forward silencing Ash. There's a recognizable current of fury beneath his words that causes even Ash to take a half-step back. "I don't know what they teach you in the boonies, but it's off the mark."
"Boonies?" Ash echoes, an unmistakable pit of indignation forming in his stomach.
Misty mouths the word to herself, her and Ash soon wearing matching angry expressions.
"Let me make myself clear." Trip says, pocketing his Poké Ball. "You and I aren't friends. As far as I'm concerned, you're just another trainer. Someone to beat. And I will beat you and get that much closer to becoming the strongest trainer I can be.
"Any interaction we have starts and ends on the battlefield." Trip continues. "Besides, I don't have time to waste on silly things like friendship. Especially with some annoying brat from the Kanto region boonies who can't take a hint."
Nurse Joy looks between Trip and Ash and his friends, a worried expression on her face.
"What did you say?!" Ash growls.
"The last time you two battled, Ash beat all of your Pokémon!" Misty adds hotly.
Trip scoffs, crossing his arms over his chest and looking askance. "A lucky break. That's all that was."
"That's some luck." Iris remarks dryly.
"I wasn't at my best that day." Trip reasons, directing a venomous glare at Ash. "After all, someone messed me up when I was trying to catch a Pokémon!"
"Now, now, that's quite enough." Cilan says. Wearing a tight smile on his face, he stands between Trip and Ash. He holds both hands out; a clear attempt to placate them. "Today was a long day filled with many exhausting battles. I think we're all just a little tired from the tournament. We should get some rest for the quarterfinals tomorrow."
Ash shrugs his shoulders and Misty takes a step back.
"I guess." he mutters sullenly. He rubs the back of his neck, staring at the floor.
Still glaring at Trip, Misty says nothing.
Trip heaves a sigh, closing his eyes.
"Whatever." Trip says, walking towards the double doors of the Pokémon Center. "I need to do some training before the tournament tomorrow, anyway. See you guys later."
Trip leaves the building without so much as a backwards glance.
"Ash?" Cilan says, placing a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah, I'm okay." Ash says, gaze lingering on the Pokémon Center's entrance before turning to his friend. "Just wish I knew what his problem is."
"You and me both." Misty mutters. "'Boonies'! What does he think he's talking about?"
"Beats me." Iris says, crossing her arms behind her head. "No matter how many times we see him, one thing's for sure. I still don't get him."
"Well!" Cilan says with a decisive clap of his hands. "There's no use worrying about such matters now! Let's heal our injured Pokémon and head over to the banquet! Witnessing so many splendid battles has worked up an appetite; I cannot wait to partake in the scrumptious treats on display!"
Ash and his friends cheer in agreement, the Nurse Joy at the counter smiling brightly at the prospect of helping more trainers.
Biting off more than half a loaf of bread, Ash savors it. Eyes shut with joy, he enjoys every chew.
"Maaan, Pokémon Center's always have some of the best food!" he asserts around a mouthful of bread. He swallows, going on to say, "No doubt, right, Pikachu?"
There's a muffled "Pikapi." The reason being how Pikachu has an entire loaf of bread in his mouth. The sight causes Ash to stifle a chuckle.
"Whoa there, buddy." Ash says, still laughing. He moves a glass of Lemonade over to Pikachu. "I know the food's delicious, but it's not going anywhere."
"I think Pikachu's just trying to stay in fighting shape." Misty says, giving Pikachu a pat on the head.
"That's one way to describe it." Iris deadpans.
"In any case," Cilan says, using a fork to enjoy some lettuce drizzled with a Sitrus Berry sauce. "It's an excellent gift for any chef! To see one of their patrons diving into their food with such wonderful gusto!"
Currently, Ash and his friends are sitting around one of the tables in the Pokémon Center's dining area. There's a fair bit of open space between the humans. Going counterclockwise, it's Ash, Misty, Iris and Cilan. Pikachu, Marill and Axew sit upon the table near their trainers.
Georgia and Burgundy eat at separate nearby tables. They're content to sample the cuisine by themselves.
There's a muffled "Pika." Pikachu nods his head, swallowing the bread in one gulp before draining half the glass of Lemonade.
"Don't worry, Pikachu." Ash says, scratching behind one of Pikachu's ears. "Soon as the tournament's over, we'll get some training done."
"Pikachu!"
"And then," Ash says, clenching a fist the same time he shoves the rest of the bread in his mouth. "It's off to my fourth gym battle!"
His eyes go wide, the bread not quite agreeing with him. He pounds at his chest with one hand, the other going to his own glass of Lemonade.
"Like Pokémon, like trainer." Iris remarks.
"You can say that again." Misty says on a chuckle.
Ash directs a sour look their way: first at Iris; then at Misty. Iris shrugs whilst Misty responds by pulling down one one of her bottom eyelids and sticking her tongue out at him.
Cilan samples more of his food, saying, "Its powerful flavor comes from the freshest ingredients available! An excellent dish to serve Club Battle competitors!"
"You've got that right, Cilan!"
The clatter of a plate hitting their table - the china overladen with food - punctuates Stephan's statement. He moves a chair in between Ash and Misty, sliding into it.
"Hey Stephan!" Ash greets with a smile. "Congrats on making it to the second round!"
"Thanks Ash." Stephan says. "Now, let's eat! It's time to load up for tomorrow's big battle!"
"Of course," Ash says, smirking. "You could be battling me tomorrow, you know?"
Ash throws his arms into the air with a yell. He dives into his food with renewed vigor.
"Now you're talking!" Stephan cheers, speeding up to match Ash's pace.
"They're gonna tire themselves out way before the first battle!" Iris remarks.
"Axew."
A sudden mischievous giggle redirects Iris and Axew's attention. With wide eyes, the two turn around to see another Iris.
"Oh, Zorua!" Iris says. "It's you!"
"There you are!"
Another plate filled to the brim with food comes crashing down on the table. Wearing a beatific smile, Bianca sits down in the chair she brought.
"I'm so glad to have an opportunity to eat with you all again!" Bianca cheers, fingers interlocked. She sets her hands in her lap, looking to each of her friends before settling on a wary Zorua. "Especially you, Zorua! I wasn't sure what you'd like, so I grabbed a little of everything!"
"Little?" Cilan repeats weakly. He looks between Bianca and Stephan's hoard, looking a bit green.
"Wow." Misty says. "I think you did manage to get everything!"
Bianca giggles, indicating the sprawling refreshments with her hands and words. "Some pizza. Maybe a salad? Or skip it and go straight to dessert? I bet this cake tastes as good as it looks!"
Ash pauses, looking up from his plate only long enough to say "Smells pretty good, too!".
Zorua-as-Iris performs a midair somersault, transforming back into her Pokémon form. She jumps onto the table, sniffing Bianca's spread cautiously. Clear distrust marking her features, Zorua nevertheless starts chewing on the pizza.
"A great choice!" Bianca cheers. "Oh, I hope this can be the start of a wonderful friendship!"
Reaching out, Bianca takes Zorua into her arms. The embrace lasts all of a few seconds. Zorua wiggles out of Bianca's arms, jumping off the table and scurrying to hide behind a nearby potted plant.
"Sorry, Zorua!" Bianca calls, one hand to the side of her mouth. She sighs, partaking in a few bites of her salad. "My mistake. Maybe someday."
"I wouldn't let Zorua bother you. It takes a while for her to warm up to someone new."
Bianca visibly brightens at that. She recoils, finding Luke's camera an inch from her face.
"Whoops, sorry!" Luke says. He ducks his head in apology, face a bright red. He lowers his camera. "There's nothing like real behind-the-scenes to make a documentary come to life! It's the truth behind the Pokémon Trainer!"
"An exquisite masterpiece in the making!" Cilan remarks.
Ash and Stephan continue to stuff their faces. Misty looks on, mildly intrigued.
"By the way Bianca," Iris says. For her part, she's unable to witness such gauche behaviors. "where'd Cheren run off to?"
"Cheren?" Bianca repeats, using a napkin to clear up a bit of pizza sauce on the edge of her lips. She takes a sip of Moomoo Milk. "Oh! He's training with Hilbert and Hilda!"
"They possess true dedication." Cilan remarks approvingly.
"Mhm!" Bianca agrees with an excitable nod. "It's been a while since the four of us have been in the same place like this, so they're catching up too!"
"Hmm." Iris says thoughtfully. "That's a little surprising."
"But if that's the case," Misty says, eating the last bits of her pizza. She washes it down with Moomoo Milk. "shouldn't you be with them right now?"
"Don't worry, Misty!" Bianca says, waving her hand through the air twice. "All of us were planning on staying in Nimbasa Town until the end of the tournament! I can train with them later!"
Misty nods her head, jerking to attention when she sees the state her boyfriend's in. With eyes half-lidded, Ash sways back and forth in his seat.
"I can," he mumbles around a hiccup. "keep going…"
"But for now!" Bianca exclaims, clapping her hands together. She rises to her feet, leaving everyone out of sorts when she grabs onto one of Stephan's arms with both hands. "There's something really important I want to know! Let's get going, Stephan! It won't take too long!"
"Wah?!" Stephan exclaims incredulously, the force of Bianca's cajoling causing him to drop his fork. "But my food!"
Stephan can only look at his mountain of food, left half-eaten, in alarm as Bianca drags him to his feet and out of the dining area.
"This won't take too long!" Bianca reiterates with a fluttery wave of her fingers toward Ash and his friends as she disappears around the corner with Stephan.
"Where does Bianca get that energy?" Iris wonders aloud.
"She's quite excitable." Cilan agrees, nodding.
They say nothing, watching the interaction between Ash and Misty.
"Maybe you should rest for now." Misty advises. The back of one hand to Ash's forehead, Misty uses her free hand to bring a glass of Fresh Water to Ash's lips.
"I told you…" Ash mutters petulantly, taking small sips of the Fresh Water. "I can…" he hiccups then coughs. "...keep going. Gotta keep my…strength up…for the second round."
"You'll be sleeping like a Snorlax if you don't give it a rest!" Misty mutters crossly, flicking Ash's forehead.
Ash only huffs in dismay. Cilan and Iris smile at the interaction.
"Why'd you drag me away from the others, Bianca?"
Stephan and Bianca stand in one of the Pokémon Center's hallways. Despite her urgency, Bianca has her back to Stephan, tapping her fingertips together. Now that she's alone with Stephan, she isn't sure of what to say.
Bianca turns around, hands clasped. "I guess it's when we met near the start of the tournament. You looked," she pauses, tapping a finger to her chin. "oh what's the word? Confused?"
"Confused?"
"Yeah! Like there was something going on and it didn't make any sense!"
"Confused?" Stephan repeats. He closes his eyes, rubbing his chin. He opens his eyes with a snap of his fingers, a look of understanding ghosting across his face. "I think I get what you're saying! Are you talking about when those announcer guys were talking about who we'd be battling in the first round?"
Bianca's reply is an exuberant nod of her head.
"Huh." Stephan says. He starts rubbing the back of his neck, a rosy hue seeping into his face. "It's just weird hearing people call me by my name, I guess."
"Your…name?" Bianca repeats. Tilting her head to the side, she lifts a finger to tap at her chin. "Why would that be strange?"
"Correctly." Stephan stresses, a brief look of irritation on his face. He sighs. "For some reason, people seem to be unable to say it right. I've been called Stephen, Steven and even Esteban."
"You're right, that does sound strange!" Bianca exclaims. "Well, from here out it'll be different, Stephan! I'll even tell people I meet on my journey that your name is Stephan and not anything else!"
Bianca's sincere kindness causes Stephan to first laugh, then be overcome by emotion.
"Thanks Bianca." Stephan says, trying to will the tears away. His eyes closed, he lifts a trembling fist to his chest. "That means a lot."
"Of course!" Bianca says. Without hesitation, she once again grabs onto Stephan; both her hands enclose his raised fist. "Now, let's get back to the others! I wouldn't want them to worry too long~!"
Stephan can only blink, unable to do anything but get pulled along back to the dining area.
"What's going on?"
"Oh dear!"
Respectively, those are the words that come from Stephan and Bianca when the two return to the dining area. They return not only to their friends, but to a most peculiar sight.
Cilan and Iris and Axew are in the same spot they were in when the two left for the hallway. There's nothing odd there.
What is odd however, involves Ash and Misty.
Misty seems to have taken control of Stephan's seat. Currently, she has both hands on one of Ash's arms. As for Ash, he points a determined glare her way as he tries to use the same arm to shovel food into his mouth with a fork. From what Stephan and Bianca can tell, Misty is trying to get Ash to stop, while Ash insists on eating more food.
As for their Pokémon, Marill looks between them with curiosity whilst Pikachu only sighs at their antics. He drinks the rest of his Lemonade, letting out a half-hearted "Pika".
"Like I said," Misty sneers, forcing Ash's arm away from his face. "you've already had enough!"
"Like I said," Ash sneers back, forcing his arm toward his face. "there's still room for seconds!"
"I think you've passed seconds." Iris interjects.
"Perhaps we shouldn't get involved." Cilan advises, looking content to eat his food.
"You've had enough!" Misty asserts, forcing Ash's arm away from his face once more.
"Have not!"
"Have too!"
"Have not!"
"Have too!"
"Have not!"
"Have! Too!" Misty declares. In a burst of strength, she wrenches Ash's arm back, yanks the fork out of his hand and uses it to pop the contents - a handful of fries - into her mouth. She sets the fork down on her plate, a taunting edge to her smile.
Ash looks downright betrayed.
"Pika Pikachu Pikapi." he remarks, patting Ash consolingly on the hand. "Pi Pikachupi."
Ash crosses his arms, scoffing over the sound of his friends' laughter.
"It's getting rather late." Cilan says with a glance at the nearby wall clock. "Why don't we enjoy the rest of our meal in peace then retire for the night?"
"Except," Misty says pointedly, poking Ash in the shoulder. He sticks his tongue out at her. "for you, Mister Ketchum."
"Yeah, yeah." Ash grumbles. To his credit, he doesn't cast so much as a longing look at the food remaining on his plate.
"Great idea!" Luke remarks.
"I'm starving!" Bianca adds, clapping her hands. "Let's eat~!"
After dinner, Ash, Misty, Cilan and Iris first parted ways with Stephan and Luke, then Bianca. Stephan pounded a fist against his stomach, warning Ash that he's all charged up for tomorrow's battle. At the same time, Luke said that he wanted to review some of the footage he'd taken. Both out of a creativity curiosity and a desire to prepare for the second round. As for Bianca, she bounded away a short time later, saying how she'd like to talk to Cheren before heading to bed.
When they reach their room, the sight of the interior gives Misty, Cilan, Iris, Marill and Axew pause. Ash and Pikachu are oblivious, the two jumping onto the nearest bed.
"'Kay, that's it!" Ash says. "I'm stuffed and ready for tomorrow's battle!"
"Pikachu…" he murmurs sleepily.
Yawning hugely, the both of them seem content to fall asleep right on top of the covers. And they would have, had the atmosphere not sunken in. Despite their exhaustion - and overindulgence - Ash and Pikachu sit up. Wide awake, they look to their friends, the three of them still standing near the entranceway.
"Hey guys, what's up?" Ash asks. "Aren't you gonna get ready for bed?"
"Aren't you?" Misty shoots back. She huffs and looks away with reddening cheeks.
Cilan chooses a more diplomatic approach. "Ash, you might want to examine the room a little more closely."
"Exa-what?" Ash says, scratching his head. He looks around once, not quite seeing what has his friends so out of sorts. He jerks his head around, cheeks growing red when he does a double take. "Wait a second…"
Ash trails off, the Donphan in the room making its presence known.
There's four people but only three beds.
Iris is the first to recover. She saunters towards one of the two remaining beds, sitting down with a stretch.
Cilan clears his throat, saying, "Well, I don't believe this will do at all. Perhaps if we talk to Nurse Joy, she may be able to lend her assistance."
Having said that, Cilan saunters over to the one remaining bed. He sits down on the edge, beginning to take off his shoes.
Completely unaffected, Cilan releases his Dwebble and Iris begins removing the bows from her hair.
"More help than you two." Ash comments, glowering at them. Sighing, he stretches his arms above his head—one hand grips his forearm whilst the other points straight up. "I guess it's nothing to worry about, I can just sleep—"
"Actually, that sounds like a great idea."
Ash falls forward, looking up at Misty. He only grows more puzzled when Misty opens her arms, dropping Marill on the bed next to Pikachu, "Uh, what would be a good idea?"
"C'mon Ash," Misty says, getting a surprised "W-whoa!" from Ash when she grabs onto his arm and hoists him to his feet. "Let's go talk to Nurse Joy."
Ash opens his mouth to speak, but finds words fail him when he sees the serious expression on Misty's face.
"Right. She should still be awake, right?" Ash says slowly, relaxing in his girlfriend's grasp. "'Sides, sleeping on the hard floor after a long day of battling doesn't sound very fun."
"Right." Misty says with a quick nod. She pulls a pliant Ash towards the room's entrance. She pauses halfway. "Cilan, you and Iris keep an eye on Pikachu and Marill for us." she calls over her shoulder.
"It'll be my pleasure!" Cilan says. Giving a slight bow of his head, he has a hand to his heart.
Ash and Misty don't know if their friends say anything else, the door closing behind them upon their exit.
"'Kay, let's get going!" Ash says, punching the air above him with one hand. "The sooner we talk to Nurse Joy, the sooner we can go to sleep!"
A mission in mind and a whistle on his lips, Ash starts walking towards their destination.
He doesn't get more than a few steps before Misty grabs onto his collar and pulls, stopping him cold.
"Mist?" is all he says, turning to face Misty.
Seeing the intensity reflected in her eyes, Ash feels a shiver race down his spine.
"We'll talk to Nurse Joy." Misty asserts. She takes a step closer to Ash, taking one of his hands in hers. He interlaces their fingers, directing a smile at her that manages to set them both a little bit at ease. "And I know we're pretty tired from the tournament, but there's something we really need to talk about, Ash."
Ash parts his lips, understanding instantly. "I get it. We should probably talk to Nurse Joy first. Before she goes to bed."
Ash and Misty share a nod, walking towards the Pokémon Center's front desk hand in hand.
The next day, Ash is the first person to wake up. He's also the first one out of his friends to make it to the Nimbasa Town Stadium. The building where the Nimbasa Town Club Battle Tournament is being held shines even brighter than it did yesterday.
"Ya-hoo!" Ash shouts. Bounding forward with his arms in the air, he lands on the ground. With Pikachu on his shoulder, Ash stands a few feet away from the doors leading into the stadium. "I'm here, I'm psyched and I'm gonna win!"
Both he and Pikachu raise a fist to the sky, punching it for emphasis.
"Careful, Ash," Misty advises with a teasing smirk. "You could be battling me next in the competition, remember?"
Ash waves her off, saying, "I'll still win, just you watch!"
"You sound really pumped up, Ash!" Iris remarks. Her friendly smile sharpens, a knowing gleam in her eyes. "Is it really just about the battle tournament?"
Ash scoffs at that, crossing his arms over his chest. It doesn't distract much from the reddening of his cheeks. "Of course it is! I'm so ready to get some more battling done!"
Meanwhile, Misty chokes. Her own face burns a bright red. "I really want to battle with my Pokémon."
"Personally," Cilan interjects, smile bright and complexion rosy. "I cannot wait to witness the way all of you will battle today! It is sure to be quite the treat!"
Ash scoffs and Iris sighs, both visibly deflating at Cilan's words. As for Misty, she sweat drops.
"Thanks Cilan." Misty says.
"It's too bad—"
"Watching you yesterday, I realized you've actually gotten a teensy bit stronger."
Georgia smirks at Iris, looking down her nose at her. Iris crunches up her nose, agitated by the unpleasant interruption.
"What's the matter?" Iris asks, curious and irritated. She walks a few steps toward Georgia. "You scared?"
Cilan grimaces, saying nothing when he finds himself between the two feuding ladies.
"No way!" Georgia says, even laughing a little. "It's actually good for me. Great Dragon Busters need a good challenge to make beating the pants off someone like you worthwhile."
"Axew." he remarks, shaking his head dismissively.
Cilan looks between his friend and her rival, going a tad pale.
"Still stuck thinking you can beat me, huh?" Iris says. She looks away, her side facing Georgia. "Dream on, girl."
Georgia growls, beginning to look a bit irritated herself. She crosses her arms, looking up with eyes closed. "'Scuse me, but my dreams are real, girl." she gives Iris a sideways look. "So~rry~!"
"Big dreams," Iris remarks, ambling a few sideways steps over to Georgia. With barely an inch between them, Cilan goes from pale to a worrying blue. He takes several cautionary steps backwards. He rubs at his forehead, eyes closed. "Coming from someone with such a big mouth."
"Oh yeah?" Georgia challenges. Mimicking Iris, the two are shoulder to shoulder. "I do have a big mouth. But it sure beats having such big, ridiculous hair!"
"What did you say?!"
The two take to glaring at each other, acerbic electricity between their eyes.
Cilan laughs nervously. He raises his hands as Iris and Georgia spring apart. They turn around, each crossing their arms over their chest with a scoff.
"Now, wouldn't it be better if you both just calmed down?" he says. "You're both still competing in the tournament, so—"
A mischievous snicker on her lips, Zorua-as-Georgia appears in the space between Iris and Georgia. Zorua-as-Georgia has her hands raised in a claw; less like a human and more like her Pokémon form. She jumps to the right, bumping into Iris with laughter just as friendly.
"Huh?" Cilan says.
Iris, not being one to miss such a golden opportunity to taunt her rival, reacts a little differently to Zorua's appearance. She smiles, a look of triumph on her face.
"'Aww, oh no!'" Iris says, ensuring her voice bears a mocking similarity to Georgia's own. She places her hands on the elbows of Zorua-as-Georgia, the shapeshifter having her arms crossed at the wrists in front of her chest. "'If I have to battle against that brilliant Dragon Master Iris,'" Iris brings Zorua-as-Georgia's arms apart in a shrug. "'I just know I'm gonna lose and lose in such a big way!'"
Georgia gasps in shocked outrage.
Iris pounces. Iris brings Zorua-as-Georgia's hands to her face, Zorua-as-Georgia shaking her head all on her own. "'Poor, poor me!'"
"How dare you say such a thing!" Georgia cries.
Zorua-as-Georgia giggles at Georgia with a wink. She transforms back into her Pokémon form.
"Hey, thanks Zorua!" Iris says, smiling down at her.
Luke's Zorua snickers one more time before bounding away.
Growling for a few seconds more, Georgia thrusts her arm forward, pointing directly at Iris' face. "Whatever! Once we have a battle, you'll see! I'm so much stronger than you it's not even funny!"
Georgia walks off. Her shoulders stiff and her arms raised at her sides, she trudges off in the stadium's direction.
"Oh yeah?!" Iris shouts at Georgia's departing back. "Well, that's what you think!"
Her posture not unlike Georgia's, Iris walks away from her friends, making for the stadium.
Cilan lifts two fingers to his forehead. He shakes his head, sighing.
"Well, we mustn't keep them waiting." he says.
Ash and Misty share a look, the trio making for the stadium's entrance.
A deafening applause fills the stadium as the crowd anxiously awaits the quarterfinals of the Nimbasa Town Battle Tournament. Meanwhile, all around the stadium, familiar faces and their friends are making themselves comfortable. Spectators and competitors alike can feel the anticipation in the air.
Bianca smiles at Hilbert, Hilda and Cheren before sliding into the seat next to Cheren. Hilda gives Bianca a thumbs-up and a smile whilst Hilbert aims for something more tactile. Standing up, Hilbert gives a bemused Cheren a high-five. Cheren smiles, shaking his suddenly stinging hand.
Elsewhere, Burgundy sits with stars in her eyes. Quiet and content, she's still basking in the afterglow of witnessing Cilan taste the bitter tang of defeat. As for Cilan, he's content to watch the proceedings from afar.
His arms crossed over his chest, eyes never straying from the battlefield, Trip sits on a bench by himself. He says nothing.
A short distance away stands Ash, his friends and their acquaintances.
Ash, Misty and Iris stand close together. Stephen, Luke and Georgia stand on the periphery. They all quiet down, awaiting Freddy and Don George's opening remarks.
And, given the crowd's overwhelming enthusiasm, they need no further prompting.
"And now!" Freddy shouts. Rising to his feet, he thrusts two fingers in the air for victory. Behind him, the massive electronic screen shows the portraits of the competitors moving on to the quarterfinals. In the first row, from left to right, are: Georgia, Antonio, Misty and Ash. Below that are: Trip, Stephan, Luke and Iris in the second row. "Day two of the Club Battle is here!"
The ensuing applause is so loud, quite a few spectators have to shield their ears.
"So, look up on the big screen for our second round matchup!" Freddy advises.
On the screen, all eight cards flip over. They rotate around each other, faster and faster before coming to a stop. They surge to the screen, flipping over at the same time to show who will be battling whom. In the four corners of the screen, a lightning bolt separates the two portraits.
In the second round, the battles will be: Ash versus Georgia, Antonio versus Luke, Trip versus Misty and Stephan versus Iris.
"All right, I'm battling Georgia!" Ash cheers. "She used both Beartic and Pawniard so, wonder what she'll use this time?"
Georgia chuckles, giving Ash a smile. She says nothing.
Given the overall sanguine atmosphere of the stadium, Georgia and Ash waste no time. They make it to the battlefield, standing on opposite ends.
"Ladies and gentleman," Freddy says. "the much anticipated first battle of round two is Georgia versus Ash!"
Similar looks of confidence on their face, Ash and Georgia both raise a Poké Ball.
"Ready?" the referee says, his arms an "X" in front of his chest. He looks to both competitors, each giving a determined nod. The referee sweeps his arms through the air. "Begin!"
Ash and Georgia throw their Poké Balls, revealing the two Pokémon that will take center stage in the first battle of the quarterfinals.
Originally Added: January 25th, 2024.