Ash and Ritchie wordlessly stared at one another in shock, surprised that they were meeting each other again after being apart for so long. Brock and Misty also shared their own surprise as the Alolans looked on in confusion, not knowing what to make of this encounter. But the silence only lasted for a moment before a large smile broke out between Ash and the new arrival.
"Oh wow! I can't believe that you're here!" Ritchie exclaimed in joy as he rushed forward and stuck a hand out in greeting.
"Me either!" Ash returned the gesture with a firm handshake and grin as Pikachu climbed onto his shoulder to welcome Sparky. "I didn't know you were challenging the Battle Frontier!"
"And I didn't know you were part of it!"
Anabel looked on in interest at the familiarity between the two, surprised at how well they were getting along despite supposedly meeting each other for the first time. With Ritchie's perking up when he met her eyes.
"Oh Miss Anabel, I didn't know you were here either!"
Ash raised an eyebrow at the title while Anabel laughed softly in amusement at Ritchie's polite gesture. Having already gotten used to it after talking to him and challenging him.
"Ritchie, we're the same age. You don't have to say 'Miss' when you address me. Anabel is just fine."
"Right... I remember you telling me that when we battled," Ritchie admitted with a sheepish laugh.
Ash's joyful expression dampened as he turned to his girlfriend with a slight pout, unamused that she kept him in the dark about a friend coming over to challenge him.
"It would have been nice to know you would be coming though."
Anabel softly rolled her eyes at his stubbornness before gently poking him in the arm, "You knew the conditions of the Battle Frontier: you can't know who you are facing beforehand," she explained as a knowing look appeared. "Besides, you didn't tell me that you knew Ritche anyway. So how could I warn you before he showed up?"
Ash looked off to the side and grumbled at being corrected, but said nothing knowing that she was completely right. Though he did smile when he heard her soft laugh and a small peck hitting his cheek, a gesture that didn't fail to make his face heat up.
Ritchie blinked at the romantic gesture, quickly putting two and two together realizing that these two were more than friends. A fact that he found surprising, but not unlikely given how long it had been since he last saw Ash in person.
Meanwhile, the Alolans couldn't help glancing between Ash and Ritchie in slight surprise after seeing them greet one another. Seeing numerous similarities between their passion and looks even if they were two completely different people.
"It's like seeing double..." Kukui noted with amusement as he stroked his chin with a grin.
Ritchie managed to hear the scattered conversations of the others, turning away from his conversation with Ash and Anabel to see the quizzical stares of numerous people. Making him raise an eyebrow towards his lifelong friend who turned to see what he was looking at before briefly explaining.
"They're with me," Ash started to explain with his signature grin on his face. "We were on a field trip when Anabel told me someone was coming to challenge."
"A field trip?" Ritchie looked between Ash and the unknown group in confusion, one that Ash was happy to answer.
"Yup! I'm in the Pokémon school in Alola right now going through the islands and doing the challenges. We had a trip scheduled here in Kanto when you came to challenge me, so we decided to show them what the Battle Frontier is all about!"
Ritchie raised an eyebrow towards Anabel, a silent question to her if he was really going to school in a new region. She quickly nodded in slight amusement, an act that made Ritchie slightly surprised but quickly accepted knowing that Ash wouldn't lie to him about this sort of thing. Before Ash quickly introduced the new arrival to all of his friends from Alola, Ritchie taking in their names and passions with fascination.
"But that makes me wonder, how did you get an invite to challenge the Battle Frontier in the first place?" Kiawe asked after the last person was introduced and the group was acquainted with one another.
"I heard tales of a person going around Kanto and Johto helping anyone in need, no matter how difficult or challenging the task was," Scott jumped in with a grin on his face. "And when I happened to find him in the middle of a battle, I just knew that I had to send an invitation out."
"Ah well..." Ritchie scratched his cheek sheepishly as a small red hue grew from the praise. An act that amused the Alolans as Ash wrapped an arm around Ritchie with a large grin on his face.
"He and I first met in the Kanto league, which was the first league that I competed in. Though we did meet up again in Johto to help someone out with something."
Ritchie smiled as he remembered their encounter way back then and in appreciation at keeping the Lugia encounter they had a secret even after all this time.
"First the Unova league and now Kanto? Just how many leagues have you participated in Ash?" Kukui couldn't help but ask with a slightly bewildered expression after hearing his feats, even more so when Ash paused to count off his fingers. Mumbling to himself with the eyes of the Alolans widening as the number started to increase till he reached his second hand.
"Six so far, with Kalos being the most recent one I participated in, but I also did some small tournaments along the way," Ash informed them with a smile before being interrupted by Misty.
"Don't forget the Orange Islands."
"Oh right, I competed in that too."
The Alolans looked at him with wide eyes and dropped jaws, unable to imagine the full scope of his adventures through the journey he went on. A fact that Anabel could get behind after only going through one of those journeys with him.
"How do you even have the time to compete if you're part of the Battle Frontier?" Mallow couldn't help but ask imagining his busy schedule.
"The Battle Frontier is not usually open when the Pokémon Leagues are happening, so I allow Ash to journey through regions during the off-season," Scott informed them. "The only condition I have is that he must return if there is a challenger that I personally invited, like today."
Kukui and the students nodded in understanding at the conditions placed on Ash, with the Professor from Alola looking at Ash with a sense of respect. Knowing that it wasn't easy to balance his duties as a Frontier Brain while also traveling throughout the world. Making him see his student and boarder in a whole new light.
"But anyways, I'm sure that Ash would want to get started on the battle right away after being so long. Isn't that right?" the founder said with a knowing smile on his face.
"For sure!" Ash exclaimed before turning slightly with his arm still around Ritchie as he gestured towards the various battlefields with an eager expression. "Choose any of that you want! Then we can get started right away!"
"R-Really?" Ritchie asked in shock at the offer as he looked at each of the arenas. "I get to choose?"
"You bet! You can choose any one of them for our upcoming battle!"
Ritchie paused for a moment and looked at the various battlefields that were available to him, thinking about which one would be the best use for him and the team he had in mind going against Ash before finally deciding on one with a large smile.
"I will pick the rocky one if you don't mind."
"Not at all!" Ash answered back, "I can't wait to get started!"
Ash and Ritchie shared a firm handshake with each other before making their way to opposite ends of the rocky terrain with their electric partners following closely behind them, eager to get the battle underway.
"Well, I better make my way towards the referee spot," Tracy said with amusement towards the others who remained. "I'm pretty sure they're going to want to get started right away."
Anabel watched Ash and Ritchie sprint across the field in excitement, wanting to get started on the battle right away much to the amusement of her and everyone there. Ash's Pokémon followed their trainer's lead as they rushed towards the seating area that was near the field, a gesture that they all took part in as they found their own seats. Yet the purplette paused when Brock suddenly asked her a question as they walked towards the arena.
"Hey Anabel, what were you saying about rankings earlier?"
"...What do you mean?" she asked a bit nervously seeing the focus turned towards the Pokémon Doctor.
"It's just that you looked like you wanted to say something before, but suddenly stopped. So I couldn't help but wonder if something was up."
"I was wondering that too," Professor Kukui admitted as he watched Ash finally make his way onto the field and started to stretch his arms and legs with anticipation. "I noticed your reaction earlier, but didn't want to put you on the spot."
Anabel was surprised that they noticed her reaction given how brief it was but didn't say anything as everyone's eyes turned towards her in interest. Making her sigh as she watched Ritchie setting down his backpack beside him and making his own preparations.
"Before Ash decided to go to Alola, Scott talked with Brandon to see if there were any changes to be made in our current ranking seeing that he was the strongest in our facility and had a good indication of how strong me and the others were against him," Anabel answered seeing Scott's encouraging nod towards her at the statement.
"Who's Brandon?" Kukui asked seeing that someone knew was mentioned.
"Brandon is the Eight Frontier Brain and the strongest person in the entire organization," Brock answered recalling his own experience with the strongest member. "Ash even had to challenge him multiple times before he managed to finally beat him when he was going through the Battle Frontier."
The Alolans nodded in slight understanding and surprise at the description, now knowing who Brandon was and where Ash stood in terms of strength. Having seen their friend go against Tapu Koko with Pikachu a few times by now gave them some level of perception of how the final Frontier Brain can be in the organization-
"Was..." Anabel interrupted their thoughts with an uneasy expression, making everyone shift their attention towards her at once.
"...Was?" Misty repeated while blinking in confusion.
"Yes," Anabel answered with a hint of caution awaiting the outburst. "Brandon was the Eight Frontier Brain..."
The silence that Anabel witnessed was nearly overwhelming, their expressions so stunned and dumbfounded that no words were able to be uttered. Even Brock and Misty were at a loss looking at Ash across the field, the person they saw made countless mistakes at the beginning of his journey now being at the top of the Battle Frontier. Scott smirking to himself in pride from the sidelines at their reaction.
"...Ash is the Eight Frontier Brain?" Delia quietly asked in shock as her eyes welled up in pride, knowing that it wasn't too long ago when her son had to go through their training and initiation before he was able to join.
"Not officially," Scott answered Delia with a more serious tone given the fact that he was talking to Ash's mother. "We were about to discuss it with him the moment the season ended a few months ago, but his sudden announcement of staying in Alola put those plans on hold for the time being."
"...But why now?" Brock asked in stunned surprise at his friend's new ranking. "Why the sudden change now and not before?"
"Well," Anabel started with a sly smile, "have you seen his performance in the Kalos League?"
Kukui frowned as he and none of the students had any idea what Anabel was getting at, as they didn't particularly pay attention to any other league events unless it was for the sake of a lesson at school. Yet the Alola professor noticed the look of shocked realization between Brock and Misty, a frown forming on his face at being the one left out. Making a note to check on Ash's performance in the Kalos region back home.
Scott ignored their continued silence as he looked back onto Ash on the field while tapping the bottom of his chin thoughtfully, "Though now I'm considering putting that conversation off until he finishes learning what he can in Alola so that he doesn't become distracted on his journey. It'd be a shame if the newfound responsibilities started to cloud his judgment."
The founder and Anabel shared a look before nodding and turning back to the group with a raised eyebrow having come to the same conclusion.
"I'd appreciate it if you don't tell Ash this whenever he is done with this battle and heads back to Alola," Scott stated with a frown and furrowed brow, "I would hate to put stress on him when he's technically off the clock and on a journey."
The visitors could only nod dumbly at the statement as they went to the outdoor seating area for the battle, seeing that Ash and Ritchie were done with their preparations and were about to start. Getting themselves comfortable while their excitement grew at the thought of seeing the potentially strongest member of the Battle Frontier about to compete against the challenger.
Ash couldn't help but grin at the thought of finally battling Ritchie after being apart for so long, especially when it was back in his arena in Pallet Town. And despite Pikachu not being the one battling on the field this time around, he could tell his faithful companion felt the same way. Wanting to know how much Ritchie has grown since the last time they battled.
Ritchie's own eagerness was demonstrated by the wide smile that was on his face, with a small sense of restlessness being seen in the way his hands fiddle with the Pokeball on his belt. Looking at his competitor in excitement from across the rocky plains.
Meanwhile, Tracy finally made his way to the sidelines and looked between the two competitors before stating the rules of the match.
"This match will be a three-on-three battle between Arena Guardian Ash and Ritchie. Furthermore, only the challenger will be able to switch Pokémon throughout the match. This battle will be over when one side has no more Pokémon left to battle."
"'Arena Guardian Ash?'" Lana repeated with confusion hearing the new title.
"Ash can't switch out Pokémon?" Kiawe added in with surprise seeing the new rules being stated by Tracy.
"We usually have a certain theme or gimmick for each of our facilities," Anabel shrugged with a slight smile. "It makes each of us unique in its own strange way."
"'The rules for switching are also the same for gym leaders when a challenger comes to our gym," Misty added seeing their confusion. "We do it to test how a challenger will adapt in battle."
"But don't count Ash out just yet," Brock said with a smirk seeing their worry. "Ash usually has a way fight even when it's stacked against him."
While the visitors took in that information in stride for the most part, they still looked back onto the field in anticipation of what is to come. Ash grinning excitement as he gestured out towards the field with an outstretched hand, letting the name of his first Pokémon out with a joyful cry.
"Totodile, I choose you!"
A smile formed on a small, blue, bipedal crocodile as it hobbled its way toward the center of the arena in excitement. Leaping towards the air in a front flip as the other captures behind it cheered it on, sticking the landing with a prideful expression and a delighted cry.
"Toto-dile!"
The viewers of the battle watched as the small blue creature continued to hop in place with a bright smile on its face and occasionally tapping along the ground while ending the dance with a twirl on its foot. Getting cheers and applause from everyone behind him along with Ash and Pikachu.
"Oh wow, a Totodile!" Kukui leaned forward in interest at the starter being used for this match. "Haven't seen one of those in action for a while!"
Ash's Rotom moved forward, wanting to share information about the Pokémon that appeared on the field with the others watching the event.
"Totodile, the big jaw Pokémon, a water type. Despite the smallness of its body, Totodile's jaws are very powerful. While the Pokémon may think it is just playfully nipping, its bite has enough power to cause serious injury," Rotom cheerfully called out while displaying pictures of the Pokémon to the rest of the group.
The Alolans shifted between the picture Rotom displayed and the Pokémon on the field, the adorable performance doing little to counteract the slightly hazardous information about the Johto starter's jaws.
"He's so cute!" Lana squealed while holding her cheeks in delight at the little performance, the praise only making Totodile more delighted as he spun around on his heel once more with a large smile on his face.
"A Totodile, huh?" Ritchie said thoughtfully as he reached for one of the Pokéballs on his belt and threw it out in the field. "Leafy, I choose you!"
A Leafeon suddenly appeared on the field in a shimmer of light, the leaves on its ears and tail flowing gently on the breeze as it looked across the field in interest. Before slightly crouching as it prepared for battle.
"Leafeon, the Verdant Pokémon, a Grass Type. This Pokémon's tail is blade sharp, with a fantastic cutting edge that can slice right through large trees," The Rotom informed the group before turning around and started its recording, not wanting to miss a single moment of the battle.
"Look like Ritchie has the advantage," Sophocles stated seeing the two Pokémon on the field, "I guess that's what happens when you choose before knowing who you're up against."
"Perhaps," Anabel admitted with a shrug, "But typing is not always everything when it comes to a battle. Something that Ash knows from experience."
Despite the disadvantage Ash had, a grin made its way onto his face as he started down Ritchie from across the field. Wanting nothing more than to get this battle started.
"Alright Totodile, it's been a while since we fought together. So let's show everyone here what we're made of!"
"Totodile!"
The water type eagerly cheered before facing forward and staring down at its opponent with a leer, one that made the Lefeaon raise an eyebrow in surprise at its sudden change in tenacity after seeing how playful it was a second earlier. Tracy raised a hand up in the air before officially calling the start of the match.
"Battle begin!"
"Let's get started right away Leafy," Tracy said wanting to get in the first, "use Quick Attack!"
The Leafeon charged towards the Johto starter with a white aura surrounding his body, darting across the rocky field with ease as Totodile stood awaiting his trainer's orders with a large smile on his face.
"Totodile, use Water Gun below you!"
The Johto starter immediately turned his head down and shot a huge stream of water from his mouth, lifting him above the ground as the Leafeon's attack harmlessly passed by below him. Getting a surprised exclamation from Ritchie across the field and the people watching on the side as the Eevee evolution skidded to a stop.
"Now bite onto his tail!"
With a gleeful smile, Totodile dropped back down from the sky and latched onto the tail of the Leafeon with a harsh bite. Making the grass-type eyes widen and tear up from the painful act as Ritchie cried out in worry.
"Leafy, use Quick Attack to get him off of you!"
The Leafeon glowed once more while darting across the field in an attempt to knock the water type off her tail, yet Totodile was still firmly latched on with a smile much to her dismay. Making Ash laugh at Totodile's tenacity knowing full well that his jaws were only second to Gible's. The two frequently gnawed on his head as a way to show their affection.
"You're gonna have to do more than that to get rid of my Totodile Ritchie!" Ash called across the battlefield with a bit of a laugh.
Ritchie clenched his fists, but it was in excitement at the fact that he was finally having a battle with Ash again. Looking at his opponent with a sense of nostalgia even if he was seeing some odd and new tactics, looking at his Pokémon carefully before an idea struck him.
"Leafy, use Leaf Blade to knock him off!"
The Leafeon skidded to a stop as it focused its strength on the end of the tail, the appendage glowing bright green made Ash's eyes widen in shock due to the position of his Pokémon.
"Totodile, let go of his tail!"
The Johto starter didn't hesitate to follow through on Ash's command but was shocked to see the tail of its opponent extending outward in a green glow. Striking the water on the nose as it flinched backward with a pained cry, the super-effective move doing considerable damage.
"Totodile, are you ok?!"
"Toto..." the water type rubbed his snout with a grimace as it glared at his opponent with a leer. Not liking that its attack was rebounded by the grass type.
"Razor Leaf!"
With a flick of its tail, the Leafeon shot out numerous projectiles toward Totolie, whose eyes widened in shock at the incoming attack. But Ash only grinned at the sight as he focused his attention on his water type.
"Let's show them your moves, dodge it!"
The water type twirled on its toes with a large smile on his face, dodging the incoming attack with skips and hops as Ritchie's eyes widened at the act before narrowing his eyes in concentration.
"Keep it up!"
The Leafeon nodded as it continued firing off Razor Leaf at its opponent, who frustrated it by dodging her attacks by skipping and twirling to the sides with a large grin on his face. Slowly making his way towards the grass type with grace as Ash made his next command.
"Water Gun!"
Totodile released a torrent of water from its maw the moment he had a chance to do so, smacking the Leafeon on the face and making it skid backward with gritted teeth. Coming to a stop by a rocky mound with water dripping off the grass type's face and an eye twitching in annoyance at the constant barrage.
Meanwhile, Totodile gave off a smile with slight pants leaving its mouth at the constant movement this battle required. The disadvantage in typing forcing it to constantly outperform its opponent to land a hit, a gesture that Ritchie took notice of.
"Alright Leafy, let's try this one more time. Use Quick Attack!"
The Leafeon had a white aura form around its body once more as it dashed across the field in a zig-zag pattern, getting a startled squawk at the water type as it tried to focus on the approaching threat with narrowed eyes."
"Keep cool Totodile and use Water Gun!"
Totodile gave a grim smile as it tried to focus on the approaching grass type, the exhaustion of dancing around the field caused him to hesitate as it shot a stream of water from its maw once more. Its aim trailed after the speeding grass type as it tore through rocks and pebbles.
Meanwhile, the Leafeon continued to make its way across the field with haste before it eventually closed the distance and slammed into the water type with tremendous force. The Eeveeloution skidded to a stop as the Johto starter was launched towards one of the rocky mounds, landing on its back with a stunned and slightly pained cry.
"Totodile!" Ash cried in worry.
The water type landed on the ground and on its knees as struggled to get back up, glaring at its opponent with one eye open as it righted itself up. Determined to keep on fighting to the very end even with the injuries it received.
"Razor Leaf!"
With a flick of it, another barrage of leaves was shot towards the Johto starter who could do nothing but accept the oncoming attack. A startled cry escaped its mouth as the attack made contact and a could of dust went up into the air much to Ash's and Pikachu's worry.
"Totodile!"
"Pika!"
As the dust settled, everyone could see the sight of Totodile lying on its belly with a dazed expression. Overwhelmed by the efforts of his endeavors and the attacks from Ritchie's Pokémon.
"Totodile is unable to battle," Tracy called out after seeing the state of Ash's Pokémon.
"All right Leafy, let's keep it going!" Ritchie cheered with a fist pump, causing the Leafeon to give a slight cheer of its own even as it eyed the downed opponent with some surprise. Not expecting the fight to be so evenly matched with the type advantage it had.
Meanwhile, the people on the sidelines discussed their own opinions on the battle at hand, seeing the intensity and variations of a Battle Frontier match for the first time.
"He lost..." Kiawe stated with a frown and a hint of surprise in his voice, seeing Ash struggle against an opponent for the first time in a while.
"Well, he did pick a water type against a grass type," Sophocles added in with a scratch of his head, not quite sure what to think about Ash's strategy of picking random Pokémon for this match given how it turned out.
"He still did really good though," Lana said with sympathy at the fallen water type since she liked how playful the Johto starter was and how it used dancing to dodge. Popplio clapped along in agreement beside her as it cheered over the performance.
"The match is still going," Kukui advised the class as he eyed Ash with a growing grin of his own, excited to see what new strategies and moves may be utilized in this battle.
"Totodile, return," Ash called out as a beam of light shot towards the dazed Pokémon, returning it back towards its ball as the teen gave a prideful smile to the Johto starter. "You did great showing off your moves. Now try to get a good rest."
Ash returned the ball to his belt before glancing at the rest of his Pokémon that were watching on the sidelines, perking up at the sight of their trainer as he turned his gaze back towards the battlefield and towards his opponent sporting a large grin. Already looking forward to how this next match will turn out.
"Noctowl, I choose you!"
The normal and flying type Pokémon perked up from the crowd of Ash's captures and glided silently towards the battlefield as the other captures cheered it on. The golden feathers sparkled in the sunlight before landing on one of the rocky mounds gazing at his opponent thoughtfully with a tilt of its head. Looking for any signs of weakness or advantage that it could use for this upcoming battle as Rotom tuned towards the new arrival.
"Noctowl, the Owl Pokémon, a normal and flying type. Its eyes are specially developed to enable it to see clearly even in murky darkness and minimal light," Rotom informed them before turning around to see the specimen with a confused expression on his screen. "But I've never seen this coloration on it before, and the size is a bit smaller than usual."
"All Pokémon have a different color than the ones we usually associate them with, usually referring to them as 'shiny' Pokémon given how they sometimes sparkle," Kukui informed the group as he took the new opportunity to teach them something. "They are extraordinarily rare, so I'm surprised that Ash even managed to catch one."
"It was certainly not easy catching it," Brock said with amusement, "and it had nothing to do with it being a shiny."
Misty chuckled alongside Brock recalling that day, when the normal and flying type used constant tricks and ruses to throw them off guard.
Ritchie watched the new arrival with caution, vaguely remembering the flying type when they met up in Johto so long ago. But not enough to know what kind of moves or strategy Ash had for it as he got ready to continue.
"Let's get the momentum going Leafy!"
"Leaf-eon!"
Ash only grinned at the proclamation from Ritchie, pointing his index finger out towards his opponent's Pokémon before shouting towards the owl.
"Get in close Noctowl!"
The owl spread out its wings elegantly for a moment before taking off into the sky, the feathers shining faintly on its body as it then dove towards the grass type with narrowed eyes.
"Let's put a stop to it with Razor Leaf!"
With a flick of its tail, the Eevee evolution sent a volley of sharp leaves hurdling towards its opponent. Yet Ash and the owl didn't seem too disturbed by the ongoing attack as they continued to charge ahead.
"Dodge it!"
Already knowing how the opponent's projectiles moved based on the previous battle, Noctowl completely turned its body 90 degrees to the right so that it flew on its side, the blades of grass barely missing its body and making Ritchie's and the grass type's eye widen in surprise and shock as the owl continued to make its way towards the Leafeon. Stopping right in front of the grass type with a slightly prideful and knowing look.
"Now Extrasensory!"
A bright aura suddenly emerged from the bird's front cowl, covering the area in front of him with psychic power as the Leafeon was suddenly picked up from the ground. Its feet dangling frantically as it tried to escape its grasp, only to let out a startled cry as it was launched backward onto one of the mounds that littered the battlefield.
"Leafy!" Ritchie cried out in worry.
The Leafeon stumbled for a moment before glaring at its opponent for the attack, the owl only narrowing its eyes in slight admiration that the grass type could keep going as it hovered in the air.
"Quick Attack!"
The grass type charged ahead into the fray once more, but it was much slower than what Ritchie was used to seeing. Making him grit his teeth at the sudden change in tides, looking at his struggling partner as he thought of his next move. Maybe they still had a chance to-
"Air Slash!"
Ritchie stared in shock as the flying type quickly flapped its wings to send out two blades of air toward Leafy. The grass type being quickly struck by the flying type moves in a state of shock, before finally falling over the rocky terrain in a daze.
"Leafy is unable to battle!" Tracy said.
"Alright! Good job Noctowl!"
The Normal and Flying type nodded at its trainer with a hoot before looking back towards Ritchie with a thoughtful gaze, wondering what kind of Pokémon it would face next in battle.
"Wow, that was so fast!" Lillie said in slight awe at the quick conclusion of the battle.
"He didn't even get hit once," Kiawe added in.
Ritchie fiddled with something in his pocket before pausing, feeling a bit bad that he took too long to give his companion an order and being taken out so quick. Forcing him to take in a deep breath before looking over to his faithful companion on the ground, who was looking at him with a determined gaze before the duo nodded in unison.
"Sparky, you ready?"
"Pikachuuu."
Ash blinked slightly in surprise at the question since he thought that the electric type would be the last one to participate in this battle of theirs, but quickly shook it off knowing that he had to focus due to the type of disadvantage he had right now. Giving Noctowl a look of support as Ritchie's Pokémon made his way towards the center.
"Noctowl, let's give it our all," Ash encouraged his Pokémon with a smile.
The owl nodded with a hoot as it peered at the rodent in front of him knowing that he couldn't underestimate it. Watching as Sparky made his way towards the battlefield with an eager grin on his face.
Ritchie watched the action between the two carefully before pointing towards the opponent with a large smile on his face.
"All right Sparky, let's start off with Thunderbolt!"
With his cheeks sparkling with electricity, the mouse nodded with determination as it built up its attack. The hair on its body rose for a moment before a bolt was finally shot toward his opponent at high speeds.
"Dodge it!"
With a powerful flap of its wings, Noctowl flew above the mound that it was sitting on as the attack from Sparky hit the rocky terrain. The large rock that the Pokémon was standing on exploded with several pieces of rumble flying off. But Ash only grinned at the opportunity.
"Air Slash!"
With another powerful flap of its winds, Noctowl sent several blades made of wind hurling toward Sparky. Who narrowed his eyes at the approaching attack while awaiting his trainer's next command.
"Charge in with an Iron Tail!"
The electric type followed his trainer's order as he ran towards his opponent with a hardened tail trailing behind him, smacking any blades of wind that managed to meet his way as the distance between the two shrank. Until the electric type leaped up towards the bird with a determined expression that was matched with just as much vigor as the two trainers called out their next move.
"Air Slash!"
"Iron Tail!"
The two Pokémon cried out as they each swung their attacks on each other, the impact creating a brief cloud of smoke from the collision as the two combatants fell towards the ground. The two standing back up with a grunt from the mouse and a flap from the owl, a bit scuffed from the up-close encounter as they eye each other warningly.
But Ash only smirked as he eyed the numerous pieces of rock that were laid out through the battlefield, having been broken and shaken by the constant attacks from the two Pokémon and the match before. Looking over to his Pokémon with an eager look before he called out his next move.
"Noctowl, grab those rocks around you just like we practiced!"
The owl nodded in understanding as its cowl once again started to glow, picking up numerous stones and rocks from the ground and hovering around its body. The debris acted like a small shield as the rocks spun around its body in a circular motion while Noctowl hovered above his opponent in place with its wings.
Ritchie looked at the new change in fascination and excitement, as he had never seen Ash use this kind of move before. Throwing a finger out toward the flying-type Pokémon and making his next move with Sparky.
"Thunderbolt!"
"Pika!" Sparky shouted in confirmation as electricity started to build on his red cheeks, covering his body with electricity for a moment before firing the bolt at the owl.
However, Noctowl only released its grip on one of the rocks that were in its hold towards the oncoming attack. Stopping the super effective move in its tracks as the rock shattered on the impact and protecting the flying type with ease.
"Now Air Slash!"
The normal and flying type nodded before shooting off two blades of wind after a strong stroke of its wings, causing the unprepared Pikachu on the field to narrowly dodge as it darted backward with a determined look.
Kukui was in awe at the quick thinking from Ash, using the rocks as a sort of barrier while still enabling him to attack his opponent. It was a skill that not many trainers could enact during a battle, as a Pokémon using or coordinating different moves might become too taxing or confusing. Yet it seems that Ash was able to achieve it with some of his captures with ease.
"It kind of reminds me of that other move he used," Misty noted. "What was it called again? Counter Shield?"
"It's not quite the same, but it's pretty close," Brock observed with interest. "While counter shield requires a lot of focus and movement on a certain move, Noctowl seems to be using only a little effort with extrasensory to move those rocks around seeing that he can still use Air Slash."
Kukui heard the piece of information with a hum, recalling a brief instance where this type of movement was mentioned some time ago. It had interested him at the time and even tried to recreate it as an experiment with his own Pokémon, a feat that he had very little success in as he didn't know the full scope of the method. Maybe he can ask Ash about it seeing how Misty spoke of the move and how well his student utilized it.
Of course, he didn't know that Ash was the creator of this particular strategy, focusing too much on the battle to notice the knowing look that Brock and Misty gave each other after seeing the deep intrigue of the Aloan professor.
Meanwhile, Ritchie was looking at the Noctowls' defense with a sense of awe and fascination. Unused to this odd encounter after traveling all over Kanto and Johto several times by now, an eager grin formed on his face as he called to Ash across the field.
"I've never seen a Noctowl pull this kind of thing before Ash, you must've trained very hard to achieve it."
Ash blinked at the sudden compliment before a grin of his own formed on his face and a joyful laugh managed to break through him.
"I can't take all the credit for this move, I learned this from a good friend of mine during my journey through Sinnoh. And I tried to make sure each of my Pokémon can pull this move if the time comes to it, even if it doesn't work as planned. They tried really hard during our training for the Battle Frontier when we first started, so we are going to show you what we are made of!"
The cheers that came from Noctowl and his Pokémon on the sidelines seemed to reaffirm his statement as the flying type seemed more determined than ever for battle. An expression that was mimicked by Ash as pointed outwards with an eager grin.
"Charge in!"
In an instant owl dove straight down for momentum before making its way toward Sparky. An act that caught everyone off guard due to the sudden shift in tone from Ash.
"Sparky you charge in too!"
"Pika!"
The mouse Pokémon charged into the fray without wasting a single moment, wanting to meet his opponent head-on before they both skidded to a stop in front of one another. A slight gust of wind washed over Sparky due to the momentum before the trainers called out their next move.
"Iron Tail!"
"Extrasensory!"
The two Pokémon on the field attacked at once, with Noctowl throwing a stone toward the mouse while it dodged with a duck before swinging its hardened tail toward the owl. Both of them reacted purely on instinct as every swing from Sparky's tail met a rock thrown by Noctowl, the two attacks increasing in tenacity as the spectators watched on from the side.
Ritchie watched carefully as the last stone was thrown by Noctowl, a quick idea being made as he shouted to his faithful partner on the field.
"Throw it back!"
Thinking on his feet, Sparky used the hardened tail to strike the stone back at its opponent like a baseball bat. The projectile was sent to Noctowl forcefully as it hit the flying type in the forehead, sending it crashing to the ground with a cry as it landed on its back.
Sparky smirked at its achievement before leaping into the air and facing its tail down once more, trying to put the finishing blow to his opponent as fast as possible. Yet he wasn't expecting Noctowl to be prepared for his next attack as his body was once again grabbed with his physic power. The owl hovering the electric type in the air above it with a furrowed brow.
Ash grinned at the opportunity that Ritchie had provided him but was thrown off guard when he noticed that Sparky also sported a smirk despite being in a position where it couldn't move. Sparks already emitting from his cheeks as Ritchie called out the finishing blow.
"Discharge!"
Ash's and Noctowl's eyes widened in shock as Sparky released several bolts around the surrounding area, forcing him and the audience to cover their eyes as the entire arena was baked in a frightening yellow glow. The pained screech of Noctowl ringing out as it was hit was the full force of the attack
"Noctowl!"
Ash could only watch in dismay as the electric attack finally came to an end, a small coo leaving Noctowl's mouth as it finally succumbed to the super-effective move. Tracy got a closer look towards Ash's Pokémon who now had a dazed expression on their face after the overwhelming attack. Gesturing an arm towards Ritchie before stating the results of the battle.
"Noctowl is unable to battle!"
"All right! Good job Sparky!" Ritchie called out in encouragement.
"P-Pika-Pika!" the mouse cheered back in response with a sigh, the battle taking a bit of effort.
Meanwhile, Ash called back Noctowl in his Pokeball while looking at it with a proud and fond expression at the battle that his Pokémon displayed.
"You were great Noctowl, you really made them think on their feet. Now take a good rest."
Ash put the Pokéball back onto his belt before looking up across the battlefield and locked eyes with Ritchie, his entire demeanor radiating excitement even though he only had one more Pokémon left in play.
"This is so amazing!" Ash called out much to the surprise of Ritchie and the others watching on the side. "It's been so long since we were pushed this hard in a battle. I can't wait to see what comes next!"
Anabel chuckled in amusement at the declaration while Ritchie looked on in surprise at Ash's statement, the sudden analysis of their battle only strengthened his earlier thoughts from before: Ash has really grown since the last time they met.
"But don't think I'm going to give up yet!" Ash called out with an eager yet knowing grin that took Ritchie slightly aback, the slight edge it had to him making his heart quicken in a thrill. "I'm going to give it my absolute all! So you better do the same!"
"Of course!" Ritchie answered back with the same level of excitement, already looking forward to what came next Ash pointed in front of himself and called out his next Pokémon. Knowing that the Pokémon he was going to call out wanted to fight in an official match for a while.
"Infernape, I choose you!"
With a delightful cry, an ape-like creature with a flaming head leaped from where the other Pokémon were cheering. Landing on the rocky terrain with a slight thud as the flames on his head flickered briefly in intensity, his eyes locking onto Ritchie and Sparky for this upcoming battle before rearing his head back in a mighty shout.
"Infer-APE!"
The Pokémon's cry of excitement and power was felt around him by his mere presence as he beat his chest in pride. Making the rest of Ash's captures cheer in excitement as the visitors looked on in shock and interest at the new arrival.
"Which one was that one again?" Kiawe looked on in fascination as Rotom turned around towards the group once more.
"Infernape, the Flame Pokémon. A fire and fighting type. It tosses its enemies around with agility while using all its limbs to fight in its own unique style," Rotom stated as he took pictures of the ongoing battle.
"It's the final evolution of a Chimchar, a fire-type trainers can first get in the Sinnoh region," Professor Kukui added as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I can't wait to see how this one turns out.
"Ritchie still has one Pokémon left in play though besides Sparky," Sophocles said with a frown seeing the predicament Ash was in. "While Ash is down to his last Pokémon."
"You're right Sophocles," Professor Kukui admitted to his student, "but take a closer look at Ritchie's Pikachu."
Every one of the viewers looked at Ritchie's Pokémon with a keen eye, looking for something that was apparently out of place. After careful observation, Kiawe noticed a familiar sight that he often saw whenever he was training with his own Pokémon.
"He's tired."
Despite the unwavering resilience in the electric type's gaze, the students could now see the small pants leaving the mouth in slightly uneven breaths. The constant and odd attacks from Ash's Noctowl taking in more effort than expected.
Ritchie looked on anxiously as Infernape seemed to stare them down, almost like it was encouraging them to make the first move with its knowing look. A gesture that he and Sparky didn't take lightly as they decided to give him what he wanted.
"Let's wrap this up quickly Sparky and use Thunderbolt!"
With a mighty cry and a slap of its cheeks, the Pikachu on the field covered himself with electricity before shooting a bolt towards the fire and fighting type who only grinned at the upcoming attack.
"Dodge it and get in close Infernape!"
With a simple nod, Infernape quickly charged ahead while spinning gracefully on its heel toward its right. Sparky's attack narrowly missed the Sinnoh starter and hit the ground behind him as he quickly closed the gap between them until he was only a couple of meters in front of Sparky
"Quick Sparky, use Iron Tail!"
Switching from the offense to the defensive, the mouse stopped its electric attack and hardened his tail before swinging it towards the approaching fire type. Who was now only a couple of feet in front of him.
"Grab it!" Ash yelled out in eagerness.
Infernape grabbed the steel-like tail of the incoming Pikachu with a feral grin, stopping Sparky in his tracks as both the Pokémon and trainer gasped in shock at the attack being stopped with such ease. The Sinnoh Pokémon looked unfazed at the impact other than a slight wince in its expression.
"Mach Punch!"
Raising its other arm that suddenly glowed in power, it quickly turned and struck the helpless Pikachu and sent him flying towards the other side of the field. Skidding to a halt across the ground with a pained cry as it struggled to make a last stand against the fire type with a grimace.
"Flamethrower!"
"Thunderbolt!"
Both Pokémon shot their attacks from across the field, the two nearly ending in a stalemate as fire met electricity. It only lasted for a moment before Infernape's attack overpowered Sparky's as it tore through his thunderbolt and made its way toward a surprised Sparky as it landed the final blow.
A large cloud of smoke resulted from the blast made everyone gasp at the quick turnaround. Especially when Tracy stated the result of the match with a slight smile after seeing the dazed expression on Sparky.
"Sparky is unable to battle."
"Yeah! Good job Infernape!" Ash cheered with pride alongside Pikachu. "Let's keep the momentum going!"
"Infernape!" The fire type turned back to his trainer with a determined look and a fist pump, already looking forward to his next opponent as the others on the sidelines looked on in amazement at the quick conclusion.
"...That was so fast," Kiawe said in awe of the power of the Sinnoh starter."Ritchie didn't even have a chance to attack."
"I knew Sparky was feeling the effects of the previous battle but..." Mallow added in with amazement.
"I guess Sparky was too tired to escape from his grip," Kukui said with a thoughtful rub of his chin while admiring the strength of Ash's Pokémon. "Now we will have to see what the challenger will do next."
As Kukui said this Ritchie went over to the ruined field and picked up Sparky in his arms, a gesture that Ash was similar to after many defeats with Pikachu. Watching over Ritchie with a smile as he made his way back to his area after giving some encouraging words to Sparky.
Ritchie paused for a moment as he pulled out his last Pokéball onto his hand and gazed into it thoughtfully, taking a deep breath before a fond smile managed to break through. Finally locking eyes with Ash and tossing the device in front of him and across the battlefield like all those years ago in the Indigo league.
"Zippo! I choose you!"
In a flash of light, a Charizard erupted from its Pokémon with a gleam in his eye as it locked eyes with Infernape and released a mighty roar into the air that even the visitors on the sidelines could feel. Making those who wore hats hold them in an attempt to keep them from blowing away.
"Whoa... It's Zippo..." Ash said in amazement as the winds finally died down.
"Pika-Pika..."
Ash was in awe at the sight of Ritchie's Pokémon after not having seen it in the flesh for so many years. Even Pikachu beside him was in shock at how Zippo grew from the little Charmander that competed so long ago and the Charmeleon from their brief encounter in Johto. Already feeling his blood start to pump in excitement and anticipation of the upcoming battle.
The others around them could feel his power too, with the audience on the side giving their own shouts of awe at such a powerful entrance. Infernape grinned and narrowed his eyes in anticipation while watching the fire-flying type for any sudden moves.
Meanwhile, Ash's Charizard narrowed his eyes in familiarity at the new arrival, recalling his own battle with Zippo in the Indigo League way back. Yet unknown to both trainers on the field, that wasn't the last time they had met. No, the last time they saw each other face to face was when Zippo joined the Charisific Valley a couple of years ago.
He remembered that day well, Zippo had been left by Ritchie in the valley and immediately recognized Charizard and demanded a battle only to be beaten easily by his experience. After that, the two would occasionally spar with one another unless Ritchie came to pick him up, which usually ended in Charizard's victory.
That's not to say that Zippo didn't grow, as with every battle he seemed to slowly close the gap between them. Getting closer and closer to victory as Charizard's wins were getting narrower, with him nearly being worn out the last time he had spared with Zippo a year before Ash called him back. Now, he wondered how much stronger Zippo had gotten in his absence when Ash recalled him in Unova and started participating in the Battle Frontier with the others.
The answer would be in the battle.
"Wow, I never thought I would see Zippo again, you really trained him well!" Ash said with fondness to Ritchie.
"You better watch out Ash," Ritchie declared with pride. "He's grown so much stronger since the last time you met him."
Zippo proved his statement with a pointed look towards his opponent while releasing a small flamethrower from his mouth. A gesture that Infernape took in stride as the flames on his head flickered briefly in intensity.
Ash didn't say anything as he narrowed his eyes at his opponent while Infernape took a step towards the right, with Zippo narrowing his own gaze and mirroring his action by stepping over to his left. Both fire types eyed one another for any signs of weakness as they continued walking in their respective directions, looping on the other side of the ruined, rocky battlefield as Ash and Ritchie looked on carefully.
Meanwhile, the viewers on the side looked on in apprehension, as the feeling of this battle was different than the ones before. A sense of tension rose in the air as the two fire types started approaching their trainers again while never keeping their eyes off the other.
"W-What is happening?" Lillie asked in slight unease seeing the unwavering stance between the two Pokémon on the field.
"They're getting a feeling of one another," Kukui answered remembering when Ash's Lycanroc did the same as a Rockruff on Clawmark Hill. "Gauging each other's strength before they decide to attack."
The viewers of the battle looked on in anticipation as the two fire types continued to circle each other slowly with their intense stares. No sound emitted from their mouths before finally stopping in front of their trainers once more, their eyes never leaving the other as Ash and Ritchie shared a brief glance with one another before finally deciding to act.
"Flamethrower!"
The tension finally snapped like a rubber band as both Infernape and Zippo quickly reared their heads back while their mouths filled with flames. Building up the attack for a brief moment before shooting it off toward their opponents across the rocky plains. The attack collided with one another in a large explosion, creating a large cloud of smoke that made Ash, Ritchie, and the others watching cover their eyes from the collision.
"Mach Punch!"
Infernape quickly recovered and charged ahead with a mighty cry, darting through the cloud of smoke with glowing forearms.
"Fire Punch!"
Zippo also dashed forward with a mighty flap of its wings, clearing the smoke around him as flames grew on his hands. Meeting Infernape head-on as their hands collided with one another in a large impact, snarling at each other with gritted teeth trying to overpower the other.
Infernape's eyes widened when Zippo suddenly doubled down and put more weight into his attack, causing the fists to smack him in the chest and send him flying back towards Ash. Tumbling along the rocks before gripping the ground with his hands and feet to stop his momentum, glaring at the charizard with vengeful eagerness.
"Don't give in Infernape, use Dig!"
Infernape tore through the rocky terrain the moment the command was made, flinging rocks and dirt into the air as Zippo paused in his advances to look around. With Ritchie doing the same as he eyed the ground around him carefully, not noticing the small crack behind Zippo as Ash grinned.
"Mach Punches!"
The ground behind Zippo suddenly exploded as Infernape emerged with glowing fists, the fire and fighting type releasing a pummel of punches toward Zippo's back. Making the charizard's eyes bulge in both shock and pain, not expecting the fast recovery from the Sinnoh starter as the final blow sent Zippo towards a rocky mound. The impact knocked the wind out of him with a grunt and a grimace as rocks were thrown from the landing.
"Zippo!" Ritchie cried out in concern. "Are you ok?!"
A grunt of confirmation was emitted from Zippo before steam emitted from his nose and a snarl left his lips, staring down Infernape even as the Sinnoh starter coaxed him on with a grin.
"What power..." Kiawe muttered in awe along with his fire-based team, the sight of the battle igniting their spirits like a volcano.
Meanwhile, Kukui was in awe at the tenacity and speed of the punches from Ash's Infernape as the short series of blows looked more like Close Combat rather than simple Mach Punches. Further demonstrating Ash's current position and strength as the 8th Frontier Brain.
Ash grinned at the surprised look on Ritchie's face knowing that he caught him off guard, "I haven't been slacking off all this time Ritchie! I meant what I said before, I want you to come at me with everything you got!"
Infernape mimicked his trainer's ambition by releasing an enthusiastic shout, staring down the Charizard on the other side with glee.
Ritchie couldn't help but let out an excited grin at the intensity of the battle, feeling the thrill of battling his longtime friend in a serious match without any setbacks or problems getting in the way for once.
"I wouldn't want it any other way!" Ritchie said in excitement before pointing a finger up towards the air with a large smile. "Zippo! Take to the skies!"
The Kanto starter extended his wings and rose above the rocky terrain with a powerful flap before hovering in place with a steely look in his eyes, staring down Infernape from above as he waited for Ritchie's next command.
"Now rush him with a Flame Punch!" Ritchie shouted out while striking the hand downwards like a performer would. With Zippo diving towards Infernape a mighty roar and the formation of blazing claws once more.
Ash knew that this hit was very different than the one they both started with, as Zippo was approaching much faster and was stronger due to the increase in height and speed.
"Dig Infernape!"
Digging straight down, the Sinnoh starter barely managed to escape the attack from Zippo as rocks and debris were flung into the air from the massive impact. Forcing the Kanto starter to pry his arms from the ground as he looked around for his foe carefully again, not missing the sound of the earth breaking apart behind him again.
"Mach Punch!"
Infernape emerged from the ground like a Mantine from the sea, a smirk on his face as he aimed a super-powered fist toward Zippo's back like he did earlier.
"Use your tail!" Ritchie cried out seeing the attack.
Zippo quickly turned so that his powerful tail smacked his opponent in the face, sending Infernape flying off to the side as Ash and Pikachu cried out in shock and worry at the sudden counter.
"Don't let up Zippo! Use Flamethrower!"
Zippo reacted quickly and shot a torment of fire towards his opponent who could only brace his arms in front of his face as the massive flames reached him. Covering his entire body in an intense heat that made Ash and Pikachu flinch slightly at the intensity.
"Infernape, let's show Zippo and Ritchie what were made of," Ash cupped his hands and yelled out in support and anticipation. "Dive in with Flare Blitz!"
Ritchie watched in amazement as the flames where Infernape stood suddenly doubled in size until the image of an Infernape coated in a blue inferno started to push his way through Zippo's attack. Slowly gaining ground with strong and steady steps as he made his way toward the fire and flying type.
"Zippo, don't let up on that Flamethrower!"
The Charizard doubled down on its attack and increased the output of its flames, coating his opponent once more as the Sinnoh fire type continued to push on through. Charging ahead with a sprint and a steely focus as Zippo's flamethrower continued to wash over his own, a blue speck charging through red-hot flames.
Zippo's eyes widened as Infernape finally closed the gap and rammed into him at full force with Flare Blitz, creating a massive explosion that left smoke and wind blowing everywhere. Forcing all the specters of the battle to cover their faces from the smog and collision of heat that was sent their way, Ash and Ritchie held onto their hats as their electric types partner clung to their pants.
"I can feel the heat from where I'm standing..." Kiawe said as he covered his face, the smirk hidden underneath his arm showing the awe at the spectacle in front of him. "Someday, I want to be able to show that kind of fire."
His Pokémon agreed with his declaration, nodding along while basking in the heat that was suddenly thrown their way while looking on with admiration.
Ash and Ritchie managed to see the results of the collision first, with both Pokémon panting and scuffed from the battle. Yet more than ready to continue on, staring down at one another from the end of the field as Ash and Ritchie locked eyes again.
"I'm having a lot of fun battling you again Ash," Ritchie voiced his thoughts with a smile, "I almost wished that this didn't have to end."
"I feel the same way," Ash returned Ritchie's sentiments with his own. "But me and Infernape aren't through with this battle yet. In fact, we are just getting started!"
The crowd watched in amazement as Infernape's fiery mane increased in intensity for a moment, doubling in size while the fire type's shouted out in confirmation of his trainer's wish. Getting an eager look from Ritchie and his Charizard.
"We're just warming up too!" Richite said while sharing a glance towards Zippo, the fire type sharing a nod before facing ahead with a grin. "In fact, I think we are ready to go even further!"
Ash's eyes widened when Ritchie reached into his pocket and pulled out a familiar stone that was frequent in his journey through Kalos and saw the same orange orb glowing on Zippo that was hidden on a band on his arm due to the similar coloring. Making Infernape tense on the battlefield as the people on the sidelines looked on in confusion and surprise.
"What is that?" Lillie asked with a tilt of her head. "I could've sworn I saw that in a book before."
"Kind of a weird place to show off your accessories," Mallow added with a slight smile, not knowing the significance.
Meanwhile, Brock and Misty looked on in shock as they knew what that gemstone signified. As it was something that they both had on themselves and were planning to surprise the group with their session at the gym.
"Is that a..." Kukui added with wide eyes.
"…Keystone." Ash finished on the field with awe.
"Zippo! Let's get even stronger together!" Ritchie shouted with excitement before lifting the stone high into the air as the gem in his hand started to glow. "Mega evolve!"
The Charizard responded to his trainer by unleashing a mighty roar as the stone on his body erupted with glowing streaks of lights that moved toward Ritche's own stone. The streams of light connected towards one another and made Zippo glow bright as he started to change form.
A deep growl emitted from Fire and Flying type as an extra crest grew at the top of his head while his wingspan started to grow in size, looking much more jagged and threatening with smaller wings developing on the wrists. His fangs extended slightly more outward from its mouth as it released a mighty cry into the air, the transformation complete as a rainbow-colored symbol emitted in front of the Pokémon before fading away.
Meanwhile, the Alolans were just as awed as the rest of the audience as they witnessed this new transformation in the Charizard. Not used to seeing one of their more familiar creatures undergoing a drastic shift in appearance right in front of their eyes.
"W-What just happened?" Lillie fearfully asked.
"That's mega evolution. A phenomenon that allows a Pokémon to evolve even further during battle if their bond is strong enough, but they always revert to their original state right after," Brock informed them before rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Although, I didn't know that Ritchie had one on him when he was coming to battle."
The sun suddenly seemed much brighter than before, with all the grass types feeling the sudden increase in solar energy while the fire types felt an increase in power.
"Did it suddenly get hotter?" Lillie asked as she took off her large hat to put it on Snowy seeing her discomfort.
"Unless I'm mistaken, it seems to be drought activating," Kukui squinted his eyes at the increased sunlight. "It feels a lot hotter than Sunny Day, but it should still have the same effects and increase the power of fire-type moves."
Meanwhile, Ritchie stared at the back of his friend with a large smile seeing that they were able to complete the transformation successfully. Seeing that all their hard work had paid off after everything that they had been through, looking at his partner with excitement as he prepared his next move.
"Alright! We did it Zippo! Let's show them how far we made it with Flamethrower!"
A moment passed and Zippo stayed still as a statue even after Ritchie gave it a command, getting looks of concern from the challenger, Misty, and Brock while others grew confused at the lack of action.
Yet only Ash could see the unfocused and dazed expression on Zippo's face as the Pokémon panted heavily, unaware of the world around him while not responding to Ritchie. The teen tensed in anticipation as he hesitantly called out to his friend across the field.
"Um... Ritchie. How long has it been since you've had that keystone?"
"...Just yesterday, this is the first time we are using it to be honest," Ritchie worriedly responded back seeing Zippo not answering his voice. "Why?"
Pikachu's cheeks started sparkling as Ash's Pokémon abandoned their original seating to stand near the visitors from Alola after a command from Ash. An act that made Lillie tense due to the closeness of so many others but was unable to voice her concern before Brock and Misty shared the same grave look on their faces.
"Oh no..."
"Everyone, stay back!"
The moment Brock's warning left his mouth, Zippo released an enormous roar before charging ahead towards Infernape with fury. Claws demonstrating blazing fists while a huge gust of wind blasted behind him, knocking Ritchie's hat off his head as he looked on in shock.
"Zippo, wait!"
Ash knew from experience that Zippo wouldn't hear anything that Ritchie was saying and tried to get Infernape ready for the next attack.
"Heads up Infernape! Use Mach Punch!"
Infernape's arm glowed up with Mach Punch, but he barely had a chance to block his face before Zippo was already on him. Landing a strike on the ape's forearms and sending him flying back with ease, the impact sending the Sinnoh starter tumbling across the rocky landscape until he nearly stopped in front of Ash and onto his stomach.
Ash's expression steeled as his stance shifted to a much more intimidating and stern expression, knowing full well that he had to put an end to this before anyone got hurt in Zippo's rampage.
"Dig!"
Not getting up from his spot, the Sinnoh starter's eyes snapped open hearing the intensity from his trainer, and dug from where it landed and soon disappeared from sight just as the powerful flamethrower landed on the spot. Causing Ash to wince at the scorching flames in front of him and Zippo to pause in his reign of terror, looking around the field for his opponent frantically in a daze.
"Mach Punches!"
The ground erupted Infernape leaped into the air to quickly deliver a quick series of blows towards his opponent's back. Knocking the wind out of the fire and flying type to and sending him crashing towards the ground with a mighty crash. Rocks and debris were sent flying off in all directions.
Ritchie was nearly in tears seeing the enraged state of his friend, wanting nothing more than to end the fight even at the cost of his victory.
"Zippo! Please stop this!" Ritchie cried in desperation. "This isn't like you!"
"Pika-Pika!"
Zippo ignored Ritchie's pleas and shook in rage at being attacked by his opponent, a tremendous roar erupting from him before shooting off into the air until he hovered above the battlefield. Tossing his head around and throwing Flamethrowers all around him in a frenzy, not caring where they landed or who they hit in his fit of rage.
"Quick Infernape! Use Flare Blitz!"
The Sinnoh starter nodded even as fatigue started to take a toll on his body, making his way toward the Charizard with smooth and even strides while avoiding the occasional flames that were sent his way. Making it up to an untouched elevated mound as he turned towards his opponent. His eyes widened in shock at the sight of a super-powered flamethrower heading his way.
Ash winced at the sight of Infernape getting hit before it could charge up his move, falling off towards the side with a harsh thud. Before Ash could even think about recalling him back into his Pokéball, his heart dropped when he saw a stray Flamethrower heading toward his mother and friends. Their own eyes widened in shock as the flames started to approach them.
But all were surprised when all of Ash's Pokémon shot an attack of their own, stopping the flames from hitting the bystanders as a large explosion was made in the air. A giant could of steam resulted from the confrontation and made all the visitors cover their eyes in fright at the collision. Making the eighth Frontier Brain ball his fists with gritted teeth before shifting his eyes to the rampaging Pokémon.
"LEAVE THEM ALONE!"
Zippo paused in his frenzy and locked eyes with Ash, who was standing tall with a stern look on his face with Pikachu sporting the same look beside him. Extending his arms out to the sides while staring down the fire and flying type despite it being in the air.
"If you want someone to mess with, then here I am!"
Zippo had no problem with that proclamation, rearing his head back as he prepared a powerful flamethrower. A deep growl emitted from him as his maw started to fill with flames, making everyone at the side cry out in alarm.
Anabel held onto Delia's arm tightly in a futile means of comfort, already feeling the older woman shake in fright at the events in front of her. Feeling her own worries start to build up inside as her eyes shifted towards Ash's.
And was surprised to see that his eyes met her own.
Anabel softly gasped as she saw a subtle blue glow take over his eyes, knowing exactly what he was going to do as Ash's firm look softened by the reactions of her and his mother. Not wanting to be the cause of their distress while also desiring to protect them from harm.
Tearing his gaze away from Anabel, Ash turned back towards the threat in front of him just as the powerful Flamethrower was shot out of Zippo's mouth. The last thing the Eight Frontier Brain saw as he thrusted both hands outwards in a stopping motion and Pikachu scampering onto his shoulder was the flames from Zippo heading towards him before his entire vision turned white.