Hey all! Sorry for the delay, but I had family in town for quite the important event and then we were moving and then I have had to train for this gym competition I have next week lol. For those of you who don't know, I struggle with overcommitting myself to things. Can't help it—too many fun things to do! Hahaha
Anyway, here's the next chapter! It's another little character exploration/plot set-up chapter. Enjoy!
Chapter 21: Torn
As Ash and his team walked through the vibrant town of Cascarrafa, their senses were immediately captivated by the surroundings. The blue-roofed buildings contrasted beautifully against the clear, sunny sky. Colorful flowers in neatly arranged pots adorned the streets, adding a cheerful touch to the town's aesthetic. Elegant lamp posts lined the pathways, casting a warm, inviting glow even in the daylight.
Ash and Pikachu's faces lit up with amazement, their eyes wide as they took in the picturesque scenery. The lively atmosphere buzzed with the chatter of people and the occasional call of Pokémon. Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder, his cheeks sparking slightly with excitement.
Nemona, walking beside Ash, enjoyed some type of seafood skewer with her Pawmo, their expressions content and cheerful.
"Cascarrafa's called the City of Water," the class president said between bites, her tone filled with pride.
Aliquis, munching on a bocadillo, grumbled a response. "Ironic because it's next to a desert." He tore off a piece of his sandwich and offered it to his Meowscarada, who accepted it with a graceful nod.
"But it sits on the West River, so it actually makes sense," Penny chimed in, her voice matter-of-fact, as she walked beside her Vaporean, hands in the pockets of her hoodie. She still couldn't believe she had let Nemona talk her into coming along with the Blitz team. Now, she actually liked watching Blitz in an aloof, "I don't care who wins" kind of way, but hanging out with a bunch of jocks was not her idea of a good time. But at least the town was pretty.
"I guess," Aliquis conceded reluctantly, still chewing.
The group continued their walk, the path leading them upwards through the city's tiers. From their elevated position, they could see the expansive Western Sea in the distance, its surface shimmering under the sunlight. The small, outdoor Blitz stadium came into view, nestled among the buildings with a perfect vantage point of the ocean beyond.
"Wow," Ash grinned at the sight, looking at Pikachu, "Serena would love this!"
The Electric-type just rolled his eyes and patted the bill of his trainer's cap with a teasing smirk. The boy had had one-too-many kisses for his own good.
As Team Scarlet approached the stadium, the excitement in the air grew thick. Trainers and spectators alike gathered around, ready to witness the Blitz game between Scarlet Academy and The Nautical Institute. Ash's heart raced with anticipation. He was excited to get out there and let off some steam. He hadn't even realized how tense he'd felt recently until having to sit in a bus for four hours. He'd had a lot on his mind recently, that was for sure. With a long breath, the young champion let out a sigh and stretched his arms high above his head before rolling his neck and glancing down at Pikachu.
"You gonna cheer me on, buddy?" Ash winked.
Pikachu nodded and gave his trainer a thumbs up.
Meanwhile, Goh's attention was drawn to something glinting in an alley between two blue-roofed buildings. He nudged Grookey, who was perched on his shoulder, and exchanged a curious glance with his companion.
Without a word to the others, Goh broke off from the group, his curiosity piqued. He slipped into the narrow alley, the walls of the white-washed buildings casting cool shadows that contrasted with the bright sunlight reflecting off the bleached stones along the main street. The shiny object lay nestled in the corner, half-hidden behind a pile of shipping crates. Goh's heart quickened as he crouched down and picked up the coin, its surface gleaming in the dim light.
He grinned eagerly, turning the coin over in his hand, admiring its intricate design. But his triumph was short-lived. Before he could react, a small creature darted out from the shadows and snatched the coin right out of his fingers.
"What the—! Hey! Come back here!" Goh shouted, jumping to his feet and chasing after the tiny thief.
The small creature, clutching the coin, zipped out of the alley and into the bustling street. Goh pursued it with a sense of purpose, Grookey holding on tightly as they weaved through the crowd. The Pokémon dashed past Ash, who looked up in surprise, his eyes widening as the creature sped by.
Aliquis, still munching on his sandwich, barely had time to react as the Pokémon and Goh raced past him, almost knocking him back off his feet. Penny, engrossed in explaining the city's geography to a disinterested Nemona, paused mid-sentence, her eyes following the blur of movement.
Nemona quickly finished her skewer and moved out of the way, licking her fingers and her eyes sparkling with interest at the unexpected chase. Her Pawmo mimicked her movements, her own ice cream momentarily forgotten.
Ash turned in confusion as Goh bolted past him, shouting, "Goh, what are you…?"
Nemona, eyes widening with recognition, pointed to the tiny Pokémon. "A Gimmighoul!"
As the Gimmighoul continued to hop away, clutching the coin, Ash's Rotom Phone floated out of his pocket, its mechanical voice activating: "This Pokémon was born inside a treasure chest about 1,500 years ago. It sucks the life-force out of scoundrels who try to steal its treasure."
Goh's focus was intense as he pursued the Gimmighoul, his mind racing. Surely, this coin wasn't just any treasure; it had to be a link to something ancient and mysterious. Maybe a link to some crazy legend that ended with some crazy awesome legendary Pokémon! He had to get it back. Fueled by this single-mindedness, he leaped at the Pokémon, hoping to tackle it to the ground. They rolled across the cobblestones, a flurry of movement and energy.
At some point, Gimmighoul ducked into another alley that turned out to be a dead-end. Goh grinned, cornering the Coin Hunter. Grookey jumped off his shoulder and he proceeded to move forward to snatch at Gimmighoul, who appeared at the trainer's head, then at his shoulder, at his back—the coin glinting mockingly in the creature's grasp.
The others arrived into the alley, breathless.
"How is Gimmighoul winning?" Nemona tilted her head to the side, as if that would help her understand.
Goh's hands then scrambled to pry the coin free. Gimmighoul still moved faster. The Pokémon slipped the coin out of Goh's fingers just before his grip could solidify, and the cityboy somehow landed face first on the floor. The Coin Hunter giggled, and seemed to be enjoying the struggle. It admired Goh's tenacity, finding a sort of playful delight in the boy's relentless efforts. Rather than escaping, Gimmighoul began to toy with Goh, dodging and weaving with surprising agility, making each attempt just out of reach as if the pursuit had become a game.
Goh's muscles burned with exertion, but he refused to give up. The Pokémon was quick, but Goh was determined. However, the city boy's energy began to wane. He could not let this Pokémon win—that would be embarrassing…
Finally, Goh's frustration peaked. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a Poké Ball, and threw it with all his might. The sphere struck Gimmighoul, enveloping it in a burst of red light. The ball wobbled on the ground, rocking back and forth, the tension palpable, until it clicked shut with a finality that echoed through the alley.
"Wow," Ash mumbled out of the side of his mouth towards Pikachu, "That's the hardest I've seen Goh work to catch a Pokémon."
"Pika…," the Electric mouse felt his ears droop as he scratched the back of his head.
Goh sat back, panting and bruised but victorious. He picked up the dropped coin from the ground, his eyes shining with triumph. "Alright! I just got a Gimmighoul and some ancient treasure!" He examined the coin closely, his curiosity returning. "Now, how much is this worth?" He held it up proudly.
Penny, shaking her head, responded dryly, "Literally nothing, you idiot."
Goh's face fell in shock. "What?! But isn't this solid gold!? Ancient treasure from some long forgotten civilization? Anything?"
Nemona laughed, "Uh, no. It's sometimes used for some TMs, but it's not real gold."
Ash, ever the supportive friend, patted Goh on the back. "Well, hey! Now you have a new member to your team! That's pretty cool."
"I guess," Goh sighed, feeling a wave of disappointment wash over him. Quite honestly, he hadn't been catching as many Pokémon as he intended to in Paldea—even despite clearing his team save for Grookey and Cinderace to make room for new captures. But Gary's comments a while back—about people changing and how maybe catching every Pokémon ever wasn't a worthwhile goal had stuck with Goh.
Did he really have his priorities all messed up? Wasn't it good to have a dream and just go for it? Goh had always admired Ash's unwavering single-minded pursuit of his dreams. Watching Ash become the Monarch of the World had been both inspiring and daunting. It had put the pressure on Goh to forge his own goals and run the path he was on without really looking back. But was he making the most of his journey?
The idea that his goal might be misguided had never occurred to Goh before. He had always been so focused on the pursuit of catching every Pokémon, seeing it as the ultimate test of his skills and dedication. But Gary's comment had challenged that belief, forcing Goh to reflect on his journey and what he truly wanted to achieve.
Gary had suggested that people change, and their goals should evolve with them. Maybe a dream shouldn't be about a number or the completion of a collection, but about the experiences, friendships, and growth along the way. Goh realized that maybe he needed a more meaningful quest, a chance to form deeper connections and meaningful moments with his Pokémon and friends. This thought lingered, making him question if his path was the right one.
With another sigh, he let out Gimmighoul.
"Hey there, Gimmighoul," Goh greeted softly, kneeling to meet the Pokémon face to face.
Gimmighoul did not look amused, crossing its tiny arms and giving Goh a stern look. Goh smiled sheepishly and handed Gimmighoul his coin back. "Sorry for taking this from you. That was wrong of me."
"Gim, gimmighoul!" the small Pokémon exclaimed, snatching the coin back and seeming to lecture Goh with a wagging finger.
Suddenly, Goh's Rotom Phone floated out of his pocket and explained, "Having 999 Gimmighoul Coins allows Gimmighoul to evolve into Gholdengo when it levels up, after which the coins are consumed. It is a great honor for a Gimmighoul to become a Gholdengo."
Goh's eyes widened with excitement. "That's so cool!" He turned to Gimmighoul and asked, "So you're trying to evolve?"
Gimmighoul nodded, holding his little coin even closer.
Nemona beamed, also bending down towards the two, "That's wonderful, Gimmighoul!"
Goh smiled, raising a fist before him. "Well, why don't Grookey and I help you find all the coins you need as an apology?" He then spread his arms wide, indicating the vast task ahead.
Gimmighoul tapped his nonexistent chin thoughtfully. It looked at Goh, appreciating the way he wrestled (or tried to wrestle) because it showed how he didn't give up during a challenge and pursued what he wanted. Gimmighoul admired perseverance and strength of will, traits that mirrored his own journey of gathering his treasure and striving to evolve.
The small Pokémon had only recently decided to seek after the precious coins, valuing the chance to change. Maybe Goh, someone who wouldn't easily back down from a challenge, who would see things through to the end no matter how tough the road became, really could help.
Deciding that Goh would be a great partner to help gather coins, Gimmighoul nodded happily. "Gimmi! Gimmighoul!" it exclaimed, its eyes bright with newfound trust and enthusiasm.
Ash pumped a fist and laughed with Pikachu. "Alright! Welcome to the group, Gimmighoul."
Goh extended his hand, and Gimmighoul climbed onto one shoulder while Grookey clambered up onto the other. Goh smiled and suggested, "Maybe instead of collecting Pokémon, we could collect these coins to help Gimmighoul evolve."
As they shared this moment, Saguaro's large frame suddenly shaded the alley. "Vamos chicos!" he clapped his hands and motioned the group to keep moving, "No podemos perder el tiempo!"
Everyone exchanged smiles and ran along to catch up with the rest of the team, the excitement of their new adventure in Cascarrafa adding an extra spring to their steps. The bustling streets, vibrant with activity and color, seemed even more lively as they joined their friends, ready for the game ahead.
While Bonnie had found much in life to enjoy over the last five years, she couldn't ignore the longing that had deeply settled in her heart for a return to the adventures she had experienced with Ash, Serena, and her brother. Those unexpected, incredible journeys had left a lasting imprint on her, a constant reminder of the excitement and growth they had brought into her life.
In fact, it had taken Bonnie a couple of years to process just how these adventures had irrevocably changed her. She often found herself returning to them in her mind, reminiscing about the thrill of discovering new Pokémon, the camaraderie she shared with her friends, and the lessons she learned along the way. Each memory was a cherished piece of her past, a testament to the person she had become—vastly different from, perhaps, people's anticipations.
When she had been very young, Bonnie had been expected—as little girls are often expected—to desire a harmonious, organized world which denied her the reckless possibilities of wrongdoing. Mayhem and destruction were supposed to be too chaotic for her tastes, and she was set apart—by her teachers at her primary, by family friends, and on occasion, even by her father—to live above anything that could be considered interesting enough to be shameful.
Meanwhile it had always been expected of Clemont, as the oldest child and the future "man of the family," to at some point go "experiment" (figuratively) and experience the world, an expectation which had aggravated Bonnie as soon as she had enough cognitive thought to be aware of the fact that she should be aggravated by it.
But Clemont didn't want this, not naturally, as it turned out. He was inwardly focused for most of his childhood, playing with his inventions and his gadgets. For many years, his "experiementing" did not leave the four walls of his bedroom. But it was the burden of the genius to spend many years in mental isolation until their company could finally catch up with the inner workings of their mind.
Despite all this, Bonnie and Clemont grew close. Clemont was protective, but he still included Bonnie in many things, even when others didn't because of her age. They balanced each other out: Bonnie had a tendency to be fanciful where Clemont's demeanor was always rendered rather pragmatic. Clemont's inventions fascinated Bonnie, and her imaginative mind brought a light-heartedness to Clemont's otherwise intense focus.
All that to say—truly, her thoughts could wander, Bonnie considered idly—striking out into the wilderness again, exploring a new, fresh landscape, struck a chord with the lemon-haired girl, and it all returned her to herself in a way that very few other activities did. She thought over all this while they walked the grassy cliffs of the Western Province, which was still considered Area One. She was very confused about how the Areas worked and didn't really care to understand why they were all jumbled on the map.
They had taken the bus to the arid plains of Cortondo, and it was already afternoon by the time they arrived at the bridge across the Mesagoza River. Here, they took a quick lunch while Serena and Brock consulted a map.
"Hold on, let me just confirm these coordinates with Jacq," Brock was saying, his lips forming a grim line. "We may need to explain what's going on…"
Bonnie scrunched her nose at the sun, though the air wasn't so hot as it was dry. She and Dedenne could never sit still. This was another reason why she always thought she was more like Ash than Clemont, who could work in one room the whole day and lose all concept of time. Bonnie could never do that. Her idea of productivity was going out and experiencing and feeling the world in a more sensory way.
Bonnie sighed. They were really taking a while with that map. And why did Serena look so anxious? Was she really that close to this Arven guy? Bonnie vaguely wondered (in the juvenile way she still indulged in from time to time) as to whether Arven was in love with Serena and if that was why he'd been so gloomy recently. These days when it came to Serena, Bonnie often imagined that every boy who saw the Kalos Queen fell in love with her. Save for her brother, it seemed impossible to Bonnie that every boy wouldn't. Serena had never lost the golden glow that permeated Bonnie's younger memories of her, like an illusion that would never be dispelled because Bonnie's expectations of Serena matched the person to whom they belonged.
This was not to say that Bonnie didn't see Serena's faults—the honey-blonde could be a real prude and it annoyed Bonnie. But Serena fit the ideal older sister that Bonnie had often conjured for herself during the first eight years of her childhood while being isolated from adventure in Lumiose City. Despite a childish directness in her thinking that made her see the world as "this" or "that," Bonnie had always loved to conjure up little alternate realities in her mind. Her strong desire for adventure generally led her to create mental fantasies whenever this urge was suppressed, as it had been for the first years of her life.
Some of her first daydreams—before her adventures with Ash and Serena—were foolish things, imitative of half a dozen folktales and lacking, she realized later, the vital knowingness about the ways of the world that compels.
But these first clumsy attempts showed her that the imagination itself was a source of secrets. For a very long time, she told no one of her fantasies—where she, Bonnie, was a rescuer of Pokémon and people and things; a hero. It was too embarrassing.
However, then Bonnie met Ash Ketchum, who seemed to be the embodiment of the protagonist she had always envisioned herself to be. And she marveled that someone like him existed and it made her feel better about her own daydreams. They weren't so far off after all. In fact, they could be real.
The accuracy of her made-up stories was only solidified (in a self-assessed way of course) when Serena and Ash fell in love.
This made perfect sense to Bonnie. The dashing hero, who saved the world numerous times, was strong and now even handsome, marries the beautiful girl, who in her own right is successful and accomplished. The way their titles even fit together was something like a fairytale. Ash Ketchum: Monarch. Serena: Queen. And suddenly, everything in Bonnie squealed in exultation at the existence of fairy tales.
"Bonnie, come on!" Clemont, his Luxray beside him, waved the young girl back over to them; his expression already tired.
Apparently map consulting had finished, and now they were ready to continue on their way towards the coordinates where Arven was supposedly heading.
Bonnie hadn't even noticed that she and Dedenne had walked over to the grassy embankment along the river. She had been staring at her reflection in the running water, the sound of suddenly exciting and wondrous. She blinked, as though for a moment she had seen herself as she had been—eight years-old, traveling Kalos with her friends, each one of them fitting a character from some fantastic tale. And her imaginings were loosened again, and she fantasized about reaching a hand into the cool river and pulling out her old self—or their old adventures—as if they were something that could be re-lived.
"Coming!" Bonnie tore herself away from the water, laughing. In the back of her mind, she wondered if it was better to be a little older and on the brink of a new adventure herself.
Ash stood in front of his temporary locker, pulling his scarlet jersey over his pads. The fabric felt snug and comfortable, a perfect fit over his now well-trained body. He settled into his gear happily, feeling the familiar rush of adrenaline as he fastened his gloves and slipped on his riding shoes, lacing them up tightly.
The locker room was filled with the sounds of conversation, laughter, and the clinking of equipment. Pikachu, perched on a nearby bench, watched Ash with eager eyes. As the young champion finished adjusting his jersey, Pikachu gave him a thumbs up and a cheerful "Pika!"
Ash grinned back at his faithful companion, feeling a renewed sense of motivation.
He was excited. He had been working hard during practice and the weightlifting sessions the past week, feeling a new motivation and ambition. The physical training was a new dimension to his routine, and he liked the way it made him feel. The exertion, the strain of his muscles, the rhythm of his breathing—all of it contributed to a sense of strength and capability he hadn't fully experienced before.
During his later years as a trainer, Ash had always felt strong mentally. He had faced countless challenges, overcome numerous obstacles, and his will had been forged in the fires of those experiences. He had always possessed an abundance of energy, driven by the adrenaline of chasing and accomplishing his dreams.
Now, however, Ash realized that he also liked feeling strong physically. The sensation of his muscles responding to his commands, the physical resilience he was building, made him feel more confident. It was a different kind of strength that complemented his mental fortitude. He liked the way his body felt powerful and ready, capable of handling the physical demands of both training and competition. And he had always had a lot of energy—though most of it had been youthful and driven by this adrenaline to chase and accomplish his dreams. Now, he felt like he could actually sustain this energy at will.
He also liked the idea of being able to use his new physical strength to protect Serena. He liked the idea of being strong for her in every way—physically, mentally, and emotionally. But, Ash sighed, he wondered how he could build back his emotional strength. Ash felt like falling in love had "weakened" his emotions in a way, or at least made him feel as though he couldn't control them as much. In some ways, he felt like he was starting his Pokémon journey all over again—right from Pallet Town—and he didn't know why. Maybe because it was all so new and he had nothing—or very little—to help him meet the challenges ahead.
Then again, Ash had always struggled with controlling his emotions. It had taken many years to find a good equilibrium, and still, his enthusiasm or excitement often got the better of him.
But now he was in love. This changed everything.
His emotional spectrum not only expanded but also fluctuated more intensely. Honestly, sometimes he felt bi-polar. Ash found he could now go from running on some emotional high to having unexpected moments of fierce longing that actually hurt his chest—all within the span of five minutes. And everything he felt seemed to be heightened by some emotional magnifying glass; he felt deeper joy, sharper fear, intense excitement—all of it. It was both exhilarating and extremely exhausting. It was because of all this, Ash resolved to continue to reign in his emotions, to balance the strength he felt physically with a stable emotional core. He had to if he ever wanted to react constructively at the thought of Serena in danger…so far, apparently, he'd been doing a not so great job at that…
Aliquis clapped his hands to get everyone's attention. "Everyone ready?" he called out, his voice carrying over the chatter.
Ash, along with the rest of the locker room, responded with an enthusiastic cheer, their voices echoing off the walls. The atmosphere electrified and filled with the shared excitement of the impending game.
Pikachu and the other Pokémon in the locker room said goodbye to their trainers. Pikachu gave Ash a determined nod, then scampered off to find Charcadet and Wattrell, who had already gone outside with some of the others to find a good spot to cheer from.
As Ash was about to put all of his stuff away, his Rotom Phone hovered before him, beeping to signal an incoming message. Ash glanced at the screen, seeing a text from Jacq, which he had apparently sent to both him and Brock in a group.
Jacq: Be careful going after the Titan Pokémon, it's been spotted again at the coordinates I gave you.
Ash's brow furrowed as he read the message. Titan Pokémon? Going after it? The message didn't make sense to him. He quickly texted Jacq his questions, his fingers flying over the screen as the rest of the team started to file out of the locker room.
Jacq's reply came quickly: Aren't you all going after Arven together?
Confusion etched across his face, Ash snatched the phone from midair and immediately called Jacq. What did "you all" mean? As the champion waited for the call to connect, a sinking feeling settled in his gut. His breath grew shallow, a sense of foreboding creeping over him. He just had a feeling this wasn't going to be good.
Gary had been in Mesagoza for the past couple of days, running some errands for Márquez and Navarro, all of which was preparing him for his upcoming trip to Glaseado. The bustling city was a stark contrast to the icy solitude that awaited him, but Gary embraced the challenge and was actually starting to feel useful—productive even—in position as Navarro's right-hand man. Gary had to admit, using his skill as a researcher alongside his ability to battle and be a jackass was strangely satisfying. He felt complete, somehow. Maybe being a spy was his true calling all along. All he needed, once this was all over, was to tell Professor Amaranth that Project Mew needed a secret branch for no reason other than the fact that it would be "pretty sweet."
For most of the morning, Gary and Umbreon had spent hours in the city's well-stocked Poké Marts, gathering essential supplies for the mountain trek with a shiny new credit card connected to Tera Industries.
"It's a business card," Santiago had muttered, pressing the card into Gary's hand with a mild look of warning.
Gary had winked. "And I promise to use it only for business."
But as the researcher navigated through the aisles of the various Poké Marts he and Umbreon visited, Gary's definition of "business" became increasingly flexible. He loaded up on high-quality thermal clothing, crampons, and a sturdy tent designed to withstand strong winds—legitimate purchases for the harsh conditions of Glaseado Mountain. However, his shopping spree quickly took a turn.
First, Gary eyed a top-of-the-line portable espresso machine. "We'll need good coffee to stay alert on the mountain, right Umbreon?" he reasoned, placing it in the cart.
Next, he added a selection of gourmet chocolates and artisanal cheeses. "High-calorie snacks are essential for energy," he explained, tossing the items without even looking to see if they landed into the cart.
In another aisle, Gary couldn't resist picking up a luxurious sleeping bag with built-in heating. "Can't have us freezing at night," he remarked, patting the plush fabric.
As they passed by the electronics section, Gary spotted a compact drone with a high-definition camera. "For documenting our journey?" he asked Umbreon, who tilted its head skeptically but followed along without protest.
Gary even considered a set of sleek, designer sunglasses. "The glare off the snow can be blinding," he rationalized, adding them to the growing pile in the cart.
Umbreon watched the accumulating items with an amused expression, its glowing rings pulsing gently as if sharing in Gary's mischievous excitement.
With his pack now brimming with both practical and not-so-practical items, Gary stopped by the Pokémon Center to make some changes to his team and have Nurse Joy look at Umbreon. While he waited in the lobby, his Rotom Phone suddenly floated up, its screen flashing with an incoming call. He glanced at the display and saw Ash's name.
Gary arched an eyebrow in surprise. Since when did Ash use his phone? And since when did he call?
"Well, this is unexpected," Gary muttered to himself, a slight smirk playing on his lips. He briefly thought to make the call a video call to show of his new sunglasses, but figured that was a bit too "old Gary."
"Um… Ash? Have you been kidnapped and someone else is calling me from your phone?" Gary asked with a teasing lilt.
Ash's voice came through immediately, sounding low and desperate. "I need your help."
Gary's smirk vanished. That tone definitely caught him off guard. He could almost picture Ash, fists clenched, his body tensed. "Okay, well, I'm listening…" the researcher brought the phone closer to his ear, his attention sharpening.
"Apparently there's been another Titan Pokémon spotted," Ash started, breathless. There was a lot of noise going on in the background, and the researcher had to muster all his concentration just to track what Ash was saying, "Arven's gone after it by himself. Jacq was trying to reach Brock and I because he went to go find him, but I didn't know anything about this!"
"Okay…?" Gary responded slowly. That was weird, but not a huge problem, was it? Maybe Ash was trying to understand Arven's angle. Okay, so Titan Pokémon meant Herba Mystica. Arven had been gathering Herba Mystica for research and to help Koraidon, not to engage in reckless solo missions. But, why the sudden rogue behavior? Gary shook his head. Honestly, it felt like everyone was going insane lately. Still, he didn't see how this was an issue Ash needed to sound panicked about.
"It's Serena who's taken everyone to go after Arven!" Ash, almost growling, cut through Gary's thoughts. The urgency and desperation in the young champion were unsettling. "I can't reach any of them—Brock, Clemont—no one. But if Serena went after Arven, and Arven went after a Titan Pokémon, they could all be in danger. You know how huge and dangerous those Pokémon can be!"
Gary rubbed his face, the background noise from Ash's location making it hard to focus. He could hear the hustle of a stadium, the cheers, and the announcements, all blending into a cacophony that frustrated him. Meanwhile, Ash's words tumbled out in a rush, disjointed and frantic.
"Is someone seriously injured already, or—?" Gary asked, trying to get a clearer picture.
"Someone could be seriously injured," Ash snapped. "They're all great trainers, but they need back-up. I have a Blitz match right now. I can't just leave—not without making it look weird. I need you to go help them until I can get there myself. I can't let anything happen to Ser—any of them!"
Gary picked up on the slip. So it was Serena he was freaking out about. "Ohhh," the researcher worked his jaw side to side, trying not to laugh as he stared at his filled backpack, "You know, I was kind of in the middle of something important, and going after your girlfriend wasn't exactly on the list of things to do…"
"Gary!" Ash's tone made Gary reel. Ash, who had faced down legendary Pokémon and evil organizations without flinching, sounded genuinely afraid.
This made Gary pause. Ash's worry pressed heavily like a weight on the researcher's shoulders. He could almost picture his oldest friend, his dark eyes clouded with worry, face drawn in tight lines. This was probably the first time Ash was grappling with actual fear in a really really long time. You would have thought the boy had lost his Pikachu…
Yeah, now was not the time for the detached coolness of his spy persona, Gary realized. Ash needed the support of a best friend. Of a brother, even.
Groaning, the researcher rubbed his face, his fingers pressing hard against his temples as he tried to inject some calm into everything. "Look, it's okay. Of course, I'll help. But I'm going to need more information." Gary turned just as Nurse Joy seemed to be finishing her check-up on Umbreon. "When did they leave?"
"I'll send you the coordinates," Ash's voice came through, slightly muffled but urgent. "I got them from Jacq—apparently, the Titan has been seen numerous times in that area. It's some kind of Flying-type. You gotta bring your full team. I think she left a couple of hours ago." The champion's thoughts seemed scattered, reflecting his emotions.
Gary pulled the phone away from his ear for a moment to access his messages, his eyes scanning for the incoming coordinates. Realizing the distance, he was happy he had Arvanine on him. That Pokémon could run. Nodding to himself, he formulated a quick plan.
"They're going to be fine, Ash," Gary reassured firmly, projecting confidence he hoped would be contagious. Then, remembering the real reason behind Ash's fears, he added softly, "Serena's going to be okay, Ash. You've told me yourself how strong she is. And I've seen her battle firsthand. She can handle herself."
There was a pause on the other end of the line. "I know, it's just…" Gary could practically hear Ash's strain as if he were speaking while running a hand through his hair, taking a long, breath. "She can't get hurt, okay?"
Gary sighed. He understood how people could get irrational when they were in love and all that, so he needed to just be as reassuring as he could. "I promise, Ash. I'll get there as fast as I can, and I'll look after her—and everyone else. Just leave it to me."
With a decisive click, Gary ended the call, his jaw set as he quickly gathered his gear.
If Brutus was honest about it, he didn't hate Ash Ketchum—he didn't even envy him.
No, Brutus simply just didn't understand how Ash could be…real. And Brutus resented this more than anything.
It wasn't Ash's strength as a Pokémon trainer that stirred this confused cloud of resentment. Brutus didn't even care that much for battling, even though he knew his own capabilities were above most. But when it came to Ash, It was his relentless tenacity and enthusiasm for life that ate at the Galarian. These were qualities that Brutus felt were absent in himself; characteristics he had felt would always be out of reach.
Having endured a pretty depressing childhood, Brutus's perspective on life was inherently shadowed by disillusionment. He was constantly questioning the authenticity of those around him and wrestled with a deep-seated desire to find a genuine place in the world. He hadn't exactly experienced much acceptance…
Living in a weird paradox, Brutus was sharply critical of the superficial aspects of society, yet he also desperately sought the purpose and validation that seemed to come so easily to others. When he'd been younger, he had dreamed of becoming a famous Blitz player, believing that maybe this would earn him the recognition and respect he craved from the masses, from friends—anyone really. He had always been gifted with Cyclizars, befriending and owning the one he now rode at the age of five. Brutus' natural affinity for them provided a brief glimpse of the validation he so desperately sought. However, life took a harsh turn when he was sent away to Galar to avoid scandal, and his dreams vanished like a puff of smoke, and his feelings of abandonment and rejection continued to ink themselves into his skin.
Again, he really didn't want to get into it. It was depressing.
But in a strange twist of events, he'd been called back to Paldea…and enrolling at Scarlet Academy, working in the family business, were all opportunity to "to prove himself."
Being a famous Blitz player was out of the question—his family would never approve, and he'd missed the years of training needed to really be great. But at least, Brutus deeply hoped, that maybe he could earn a place in the world and finally get his family's approval…
It just sucked he had to share a classroom with Ash Ketchum.
Brutus knew all about Ash's career. Everyone did. But Ash's success never interested him all that much; rather, it was the fact that Ash was also fatherless that caught the Galarian's attention. Brutus knew from interviews and articles and documentaries that Ash's father was intentionally absent—which was almost worse than having a dad die on you. An absent father meant they were choosing not to be in your life. How could anyone's optimism survive that?
And that's why seeing Ash's personality up close only intensified Brutus's complex feelings of a deep-seeded bitterness he hated addressing. He would have rather gone through life…indifferent. Numb.
But now Brutus hated Ash for his seemingly "perfect life"—his perfect friends, his apparently perfect career. How could someone whose father abandoned them be so happy? How could their life look so great? It was stupid. Ash was stupid, Brutus had decided. It was the only explanation as to why he was so optimistic all the time. He was just lucky, and that was it. Stupid and lucky.
For a long time, that's what Brutus had told himself until recently. Again, it was in the Galarian's nature to distrust everyone and everything, and for a long time, he had tried to chalk Ash Ketchum up to just being a big fake.
Then Ash saved his life.
On the sidelines, Brutus groaned, mounting his Cyclizar with an irritated scowl. The early afternoon sun cast hazy shadows across the pitch. The Blitz stadium, perched on a tier of the city overlooking the ocean, was loud with the excited chatter and cheers of the crowd. The salty sea breeze mingled with the earthy scent of the grass field, and the aroma would have been refreshing had Brutus not felt so aggravated by memories of the Tera Cave and everything after…
The fact Ash saved him—and even had to have some kind of powers (powers the Galarian had chosen to ignore and omit in his recounting of the event to Santiago and Hamber)—was hard evidence for Ash's authenticity, and Brutus's world held no place for an Ash Ketchum. Ash—who despite also being fatherless, starting out life rejected—turned out to be "a good guy."
Brutus couldn't stand that.
Coach Saguaro's voice cut sharply through the Galarian's thoughts. "Brutus, remember, as a team," the coach nodded, his tone firm yet encouraging. Brutus snapped to attention, his gaze shifting momentarily.
Saguaro studied Brutus with a knowing look, his dark eyes piercing as if he could see straight through the facade Brutus wore so well. He folded his arms across his massive chest while his Pachirisu drank from a mini tea-cup on the coach's enormous shoulder. Really, if the man wasn't so big, Brutus didn't think he'd respect him half as much.
Of course, Brutus also knew Saguaro understood him too well, could read him like an open book—a book Brutus wished to keep closed because why bother opening something so depressing.
Brutus rode his Cylcizar onto the field with the rest of the team, the energy of the crowd buzzing in his ears like an electric current. He surveyed the pitch, his eyes sharp and focused, taking in the layout and the positions of his teammates and opponents. He vaguely wondered if there would be any scouts for this game…he would need to make sure Ash and his stupid friends got out of his way if there were.
The Galarian looked behind him to note Goh and Ash moving into their midfield positions, their movements synchronized and purposeful. He suppressed a sneer. Honestly, destiny made target practice out of him, and it hit the bulls-eye when those Kanto boys joined the team.
However, something made Brutus do a double take at Ash. The usual happy-go-lucky expression of the champion was replaced by something else—something fiercer. Ash looked determined, more than determined—angry, even. It was as if a fire was ablaze within him, the intensity in his eyes suggesting he was ready to set the field alight with his anger. Brutus wondered at that.
It was the kind of face that actually made Brutus believe Ash capable of clocking Lebarón. Brutus hadn't been there for that—much to his immense regret. But the whole story was almost too good to be true. Ash Ketchum, losing his temper and becoming "not so perfect" in front of a large crowd. If that was real, why didn't the press run the story? Maybe they wanted their "golden boy" to save face.
Brutus scoffed. Seriously, the guy was just too lucky for his own good. And just because Ash saved his life once didn't mean he was a good guy. In fact, Brutus rubbed his jaw, thinking—he'd heard about Ash losing his cool a few times now. Maybe the whole, "we can do it, don't give up guys" veneer was cracking now, and all Brutus had to do was drive a few more nails into the whole act.
"Hmmm," Brutus mused aloud with a growing smirk. Maybe Ash was still a stupid fake.
But the cave…
Again, Brutus had to growl and shake the moments where the walls were closing in—where everything was falling to pieces…No, Ash just liked playing "hero." He was as narcissistic as the rest of them. Ash was a fake. And Brutus would prove it.
Ash's thoughts were nothing but burning impressions as he lined up on the field. He was motivated to make this Blitz match the quickest ever—his heart pounding with a resolve to play harder and faster than he ever had. There was an intense need driving him; his friends were out there, possibly in danger, and they needed his help. It wasn't the first time Ash felt the pull of his obligations stretching him thin. He couldn't abandon his team—he couldn't even explain the situation to Saguaro even if he wanted to. He had no idea what Clavell told the other teachers about all of these mysteries. But the urgency of the threat his friends' potential faced gnawed at Ash relentlessly and made his knuckles turn white beneath his gloves.
In all honesty, Ash's mind kept saying "friends" while his heart supplanted that word with "Serena." But he couldn't think about how she was out there too or he would go insane.
What killed Ash, though, was the fact that Serena didn't tell him about any of this. Hadn't warned him. She hadn't even called, sent a message—she just expected to go and act like it wasn't a big deal. All of this right after their conversation a few nights before about trust where she got mad at him for recklessly running into dangerous situations. What was she thinking? She knew how important it was to him that she stay safe! It just didn't seem like her to call. Maybe she was still mad at him…
Or she didn't trust him.
Gripping the steering bar of his Cyclizar more tightly, Ash pushed these thoughts to the back of his mind. He couldn't afford to dwell on them now. Right now, he had a game to win, and he needed to focus every ounce of his energy on the match.
Ash scanned the field, his eyes sharp, his body tense and ready. The opposing players looked just as resolute, each one poised for the challenge.
Then, piercing through the charged air, the whistle blew. The sound was sharp, a clear signal cutting through the tension like a knife. In an instant, the game burst into motion. Ash kicked off hard, his Cyclizar leaping forward with powerful strides. He leaned into the pace, letting the rhythm of the match and the rush of wind against his face momentarily clear his thoughts.
As the players dashed and maneuvered across the field, the game unfolded with rapid intensity. Ash channeled all his frustration, worry, and passion into each move, each play, driving towards the goal with a single-mindedness that was both desperate and calculated. In this moment, all that existed for Ash was the game, the field, and the undeniable need to win, to finish quickly, so he could rush to his friends' aid. The match was more than a competition now; it was a race against time, and Ash was not about to lose.
On the sunlit stands, Pikachu's sharp eyes were fixed intently on the field. Around him were pretty much all the Pokémon belonging to Team Scarlet, and many different calls and sounds erupted from their designated area.
As the match continued to develop into the first round, Pikachu's sensitive ears twitched noticeably. He noticed Ash maneuvering aggressively on the field, his usual cheerful demeanor replaced by a stern, almost fierce expression. This wasn't exactly comforting…very few things made Ash look this…angry.
Pikachu glanced back at Charcadet and Wattrel, who were perched nearby, explaining to Gimmighoul the rules of the game. He finally caught their attention mid-cheer at a stolen ball and he pointed towards Ash. The trio exchanged quick, worried glances. Charcadet's flames flickered slightly in anxiety, while Wattrel's feathers ruffled in unease. They were accustomed to seeing Ash determined and competitive, but the raw edge of anger was something new and disconcerting.
As the game intensified, Ash's frustration funneled into a distinct prowess that became increasingly evident, his actions growing impassioned—and a bit erratic. His Cyclizar tried to mirror his intensity, but even Blade looked up at his rider from time to time, concerned or surprised. Either way, Ash pushed his Cyclizar forward with a burst of speed that cut through the wind, their movements fluid and focused.
In a tight space, Ash skillfully navigated around an opponent who attempted to use Power Whip. The opposing Cyclizar's tail lashed out, aiming to trip or entangle, but Ash anticipated the move. With a quick adjustment, he steered Blade clear, the tail whipping harmlessly through the air where he had been just a moment before.
"Let's go!" Ash lurched body towards a loose ball being poorly guarded by another player. "Knock Off, now!"
He guided Cyclizar close before the reptile skillfully used his tail to smack the ball from the grasp of the stunned opponent. The ball bounced on the grass and Ash scooped it up with ease. He then tracked Aliquis down the field and fired the ball to him. The blue-haired trainer nearly yelped at the intensity of the throw, but managed to secure the ball to ensure the play continued seamlessly towards their scoring hoop.
Almost immediately after the pass, Ash spotted an opposing player targeting Rudolpho, who was following after Aliquis with a second ball. Reacting swiftly, Ash shouted at Cyclizard, "Cut between them! Use Protect!"
Blade leapt beside Rudolpho and a shimmering barrier appeared just in time, deflecting an incoming hit that would have surely knocked the second forward off course.
Not staying on the defensive for long, Ash then spotted the last of the three balls in the clutches of a girl crossing mid-field. Eager to finish this round with a Blitz, he yelled at Cyclizar to use Tackle, a direct and forceful move. Blade lunged forward—his speed seeming to increase with Ash's resolution—and he collided with the Team Blue player's Cyclizar. The impact jarred the ball loose from the girl's grasp as she yelped and used both hands to hang on to her Pokémon. Ash quickly maneuvered to capture the ball, whipping Blade around so that he could follow Rudolpho and Aliquis to the three hoops.
The young champion soon found himself needing more support from his teammates to break through the formidable defense set up ahead. Spotting Brutus positioned strategically on the field, Ash shouted across the pitch, "Hey, cover me!"
The silver-haired Galarian narrowed his eyes and pretended not to hear. Ash just glared at him and waved him off, quickly recalculating his strategy.
With the clock ticking and pressure mounting, Ash found himself in a heightened state of focus, every sense sharpened to its finest edge. Just like in battle, his heart pounded in his chest like a drum, echoing the rhythmic cadence of his Cyclizar's stride as they thundered across the field. The sounds of the crowd faded into a distant roar, into a pulsing backdrop to his concentrated efforts.
Ash's eyes darted from player to player, keenly aware of every movement on the field. The wind whipped past him, tugging at his jersey and cooling the sweat on his brow, adding a visceral element to the already adrenaline-charged emotion inside him.
As he approached Aliquis and Rudolpho, the champion calculated distances and trajectories. The urgency to score and score quickly drove him to push his limits.
He could see the two forwards positioned near the goals and he called out, "Coming up behind you! Stall them! Coordinate!"
His teammates spurred into action. Ash watched as they adjusted their positions, aligning themselves with his approach while managing to hold off the defenders. With a burst of speed and a clear path now in front of him, Ash pushed forward. He weaved through the remaining opposition, an unstoppable force.
With a perfectly timed sequence, all three released their balls towards the hoops. Like a bullet, Ash's went straight into the top goal. Aliquis and Rudolpho targeted the lower ones.
The crowd erupted as all three objects swooshed through the hoops simultaneously. This was Scarlet Academy's first Blitz of the season, executed flawlessly within the first seven minutes of the game, and all orchestrated by Ash, who didn't even seem to be relishing the victory. He immediately rode Blade to secure the three balls and hand them back to the referee to get to the next round as soon as possible.
The stadium erupted with the sound of the crowd's cheers and the Pokémon on the stands shared in the celebration. Grookey and Pawmo, each clutching red and gold pom-poms, waved their accessories wildly as they jumped up and down. Nearby, the other Pokémon were exchanging happy smiles, basking in the glory of the team's successful play. Wattrel, who lost a few feathers with her rigorous clapping, leaned over to Gimmighoul, who appeared puzzled by what just happened.
Pikachu clapped his paws together, joining in the applause, but his expression was still tinged with concern, even after Charcadet patted him on the back in a "see, Ash is just getting into the game" kind of way. And while that might be true, Pikachu knew Ash well enough to understand that his trainer only got that intense when something was really on the line.
During the quick break before the next round, Charcadet spotted an opportunity for a little extra fun and he nudged the others. With a flick of his red hand, the fire sprite pointed towards an ice cream cart adorned with a colorful sign that read "Free Ice Cream for Pokémon."
That was too good to be true, was Pikachu's first thought. The Electric mouse sniffed the air and scrutinized the cart from a distance. His sharp instincts kicked in, and he immediately felt uneasy about the trio managing the cart. Something about them seemed off, their smiles a bit too calculated, their movements slightly too rehearsed…and familiar.
However, before Pikachu could voice his concern or dissuade his friends, Charcadet, with his usual impulsiveness, had already rounded up the group—including Meowscarada—and they were all bounding toward the cart, eager for the promised treat.
As the Pokémon hopped enthusiastically off the stands toward the ice cream cart, Team Rocket watched from behind their makeshift setup, barely containing their glee. The familiar trio—Jessie, James, and Meowth—were huddled together, each sporting a mischievous grin as they observed their scheme coming together perfectly.
"Here they come, just as we planned!" Jessie whispered excitedly, her eyes twinkling with the prospect of a successful capture.
"Like Meowth to a bar of gold, these little twerps can't resist our bait!" James added, adjusting his disguise slightly, a ludicrously large chef's hat wobbling on his head.
"Heh, heh," Meowth—dressed as a little human boy with a cap to cover his ears—nodded vigorously, his paws reaching for some figy berry ice cream James was giving him as a decoy while the feline used his position to ready a lever hidden beneath the cart. "Wait 'til dey get a taste of our special Team Rocket service. Da day's flavor is... capture!"
As the Pokémon drew closer, Team Rocket put on their most charming vendor faces. "Step right up, step right up!" Jessie—wearing a red-and-white striped uniform—called out, waving an ice cream scooper in the air. "Free ice cream for all Pokémon, courtesy of your generous and not at all suspicious ice cream team!"
"Choose your flavors, my dear Pokémon!" James chimed in, gesturing grandly to a selection of colorful, albeit slightly suspicious-looking, ice cream tubs. They looked untouched.
As the Pokémon eagerly lined up at the makeshift cart, Team Rocket's plan was already teetering on the brink of chaos. Each Pokémon took their time selecting from the vibrant array of flavors, much to the chagrin of Jessie and James, who were struggling to fill orders.
Grookey bounced excitedly in front of the cart, its eyes wide with delight. After much deliberation and a few playful taps with its stick, it gleefully chose a bright pink nanab-flavored treat, his tiny hands clapping in joy as he took the first lick.
Meanwhile, Meowscarada had sauntered up with a cool elegance that was meant to hide her excitement. After eyeing the selections with a critical gaze, she pointed a dainty paw at a tub labeled elaborately: 'Milk'.
Pawmo and Wattrel seemed overwhelmed by the choices but finally settled for a scoop of 'Pinap Blast,' their eyes sparkling as the vibrant ice cream was placed before it. The chunky, fruity treat almost toppled over as the two took enthusiastic bites, causing a ripple of laughter among the other Pokémon.
Amidst this dormantly delightful scene, Gimmighoul, being so small and less imposing, tried to get noticed. "Gim! Gim!" he protested weakly, trying to catch the attention of anyone who would listen, but his tiny voice was drowned out by everyone else's excitement.
"Why are we actually giving them ice cream?" Jessie growled lowly, her irritation evident as she watched the Pokémon begin to enjoy their treats.
"Because da ice cream is laced with a special paralyzing spore dat will leave dem all momentarily kaput," Meowth whispered back, his eyes darting nervously as he pretended to lick his own cone while Pikachu eyed him suspiciously.
Charcadet proved to be the most challenging customer yet. With a fiery enthusiasm matching his blazing helmet, he scrutinized each tub with a discerning eye before gesturing enigmatically and then crossing his arms with a demanding "Char! Charcadet!"
Jessie and James exchanged bewildered glances and then looked at Meowth from the corner of their eyes.
"Er, seems like he wants somethin' spicy!" Meowth said with a forced laugh he hoped sounded human and boyish.
"Spicy ice cream? Are you stupid! Do you—" Jessie began, a vein popping at her forehead as frustration mounted.
"Spicy, dear? Our ice cream is more on the sweet side," James interjected, trying to keep the façade going as he gestured towards a tub of 'Chilly Rawst Charm.'
"Char, char, deeeeet!" Charcadet insisted, the flame flickering around his body with impatience.
"But he's a Fire-Type, he says. He needs somethin' with a kick! Come on, now. You gots to give da customer what dey want," Meowth argued.
"Who's side are you on…" Jessie muttered under her breath, shooting Meowth a glare.
James, in an attempt to appease the fiery Charcadet, concocted a new flavor on the spot. "How about 'Berry Chocolate Meltdown'? It's... um, explosively flavorful!" he suggested, enthusiasm forced as he scooped up a bright orange concoction, hoping its vibrant appearance would catch the Pokémon's interest.
Charcadet eyed the scoop with a skeptical flicker, examining the offering as if gauging its potential to satisfy. After a moment of contemplation, he gave a decisive nod and tentatively tasted the ice cream. To the relief of Team Rocket, Charcadet seemed momentarily satisfied.
Finally, Jessie and James—still willfully ignoring the small and protesting Gimmighoul—turned their attention to Pikachu, who had been watching the interactions with a keen, wary eye. "And does the cute little Pikachu want anything?" Jessie asked, her tone dripping with faux sweetness as she bared her teeth in a smile that looked painful.
Pikachu's eyes narrowed into slits, his instincts screaming that something wasn't right. With a firm shake of his head, he declined the offer, his expression untrusting and alert.
"Are you sure…?" Jessie pressed, her patience wearing thin as her anger began to simmer beneath her forced grin.
Meowth, noticing that the effects of the spore-laced ice cream were beginning to manifest in the slower movements of the other Pokémon, realized they were running out of time. With a mischievous laugh, he tossed his own untouched figy berry ice cream towards Pikachu, exclaiming, "Your loss!"
The ice cream splattered against Pikachu's face, much to his annoyance.
Before the Electric mouse could recover from the surprise attack, Meowth pulled a hidden lever at the base of the cart. Suddenly, the cart flipped open, revealing a large, spring-loaded net. With a loud "Twang!" the net shot out, aiming to envelop all the unsuspecting Pokémon in one swift swoop—their movements halted as the net entangled them, all suddenly trapped.
All of them except Gimmighoul. Not only had the little Treasure Hunter not been served the paralytic ice cream, but he was also small enough to slip out of the net's holes.
Caught in the net, Pikachu struggled and quickly tried to shake off the remnants of the splattered ice cream from his face. Realizing the dire situation, he shouted to Gimmighoul, "Pika, Pi!" his voice urgent but growing fainter as the spore's paralytic effects began to set in.
The little Treasure Hunter immediately sprang into action. Though small, Gimmighoul was not without his own abilities. He jumped up onto the ice cream cart, shouting with all his might to capture Team Rocket's attention.
Jessie, James, and Meowth glanced at the diminutive Pokémon and burst into laughter.
"Oh look, it's the mini-monster!" Jessie mocked, barely containing her giggles.
"Ha! What's that pipsqueak gonna do? Offer us a coin?" James added with words dipped in sarcasm as he retrieved a magnifying glass from thin air as if the object were necessary to get a better look.
Meowth grinned maniacally, "You'll need more coins den dat to buy your friends back!"
However, their laughter was short-lived. With a focused intensity, Gimmighoul's eyes began to glow a deep, eerie blue. "Gimmi…ghoul!" He unleashed a Confuse Ray. The disorienting beam of light hit Jessie, James, and Meowth squarely, and the effect was instantaneous and dramatic.
"What's happening?!" Jessie cried out, her voice pitching as she stumbled.
"I feel like I'm on a merry-go-round!" James tried to grab onto something stable but only caught air.
Meowth's paws flailed as he began to see double. "Stop the room, I wanna get off!"
The trio began to stagger around dizzily, their coordination gone as they bumped into each other and the equipment. In the ensuing chaos, James accidentally stepped hard on Jessie's foot.
"Watch it, you oaf!" Jessie yelped, hopping on one foot.
In his pain-induced panic, the magenta-haired woman shoved Meowth backward into the cart, causing the feline to desperately grasp at anything within reach—including the lever that controlled the net. With a frantic pull, Meowth accidentally released the mechanism.
Instantly, the net that had trapped the Pokémon loosened and disconnected from the cart. The paralyzed Pokémon began to spill out, grateful for their unexpected liberation, though still unable to move.
Amid their own confusion, Meowth's flailing continued as he hit a hidden button on the cart. This activated an unintended rocket booster at the base—one they had planned to use as part of an escape. The booster ignited suddenly, and with a dramatic whoosh, the entire cart, along with Jessie, James, and Meowth clinging to it, was propelled skyward at an alarming speed.
As they soared uncontrollably into the air, Jessie, James, and Meowth's confused shouts and panicked cries echoed faintly. "Looks like Team Rocket's blasting off again!" could be heard, their voices tinged with disbelief and terror. Then, as usual, a customary twinkle appeared in the sky where they disappeared.
Gimmighoul smirked, his little hands on his hips as he stood beside the paralyzed crew.
Coming from the stands, Penny and her Vaporeon arrived on the scene just as the chaos was subsiding. She paused, her mouth slightly agape as she took in the disarray before her. Pokémon were scattered across the ground, some still struggling to regain their full mobility, and the remnants of what looked like an impromptu ice cream party gone wrong littered the area.
"Um," Penny began, wondering if she should be concerned, "why are you all covered in ice cream and mildly paralyzed?"
At her question, the Pokémon collectively groaned from the floor. Pikachu, who was gradually shaking off the last effects of the spores, managed to sit up, his expression a mix of frustration and relief. The others, like Meowscarada and Pawmo, tried to prop themselves up, their movements sluggish and uncoordinated as the residual paralysis lingered.
Gimmighoul managed to convey a reassuring smile at Penny, even giving her a tiny thumbs up with his little hand, as if to signal that, in the end, everything was under control and there was no need for worry.
Penny couldn't help but shake her head, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth as she folded her arms in front of her chest. "I swear, you all are just like your trainers. Always getting into trouble." She reached into her bag and pulled out a Paralyze Heal. With efficient movements borne of practice, she began administering the remedy to each of the affected Pokémon.
One by one, the Pokémon felt the effects of the paralysis wear off, their movements returning to normal as the stiffness and sluggishness left their bodies. They expressed their gratitude with chirps, growls, and nods, visibly relieved to be back in ship-shape form.
Once she was sure they were all feeling better, Penny stood up, dusting off her hands. "Come on, the second round is about to start!" she called out with some excitement.
The Pokémon, now much recovered and energized by the heal, eagerly rallied around her. Pikachu, after leading the others in thanking Gimmighoul, led the pack with an excited nod. Pawmo clapped her hands excitedly, while Vaporeon's sleek form slipped gracefully through the group. Together, they all made their way back to the field, ready to support their trainers and teammates in the upcoming round.
As Arven followed the winding course of the Mesagoza River westward, he found himself entering a verdant gorge that cut deeply through the landscape. Tall grasses swayed softly along the riverbanks, and the lush foliage of overhanging trees created a canopy of green that filtered the sunlight into warm, mottled patterns on the ground.
Despite the serene and almost picturesque beauty of the day, Arven couldn't shake off the gray, nervous feeling that clung to him internally. The contrast between all the vibrant life and his inner turmoil seemed to deepen his sense of unease.
As he continued his trek, the gorge teemed with the vibrant activity of Pokémon native to river valleys. A group of Ducklett splashed in the shallows while a Drifloon lazily drifted on the thermals overhead. Occasionally, the rustling leaves would reveal a Sawsbuck nibbling at the tender shoots, its seasonal coat blending perfectly with the lush environment.
Pausing for a moment, Arven pulled out his map from the backpack, spreading it against a flat rock to confirm his route. The tranquility of the setting made it an ideal spot for a short break. He took this opportunity to give his Pokémon a quick snack, rummaging through his bag for their treats. Mabosstiff wagged its tail appreciatively, his eyes following Arven's every move with loyal interest.
Before settling into their little picnic, Arven took out Nacli's Poké Ball and pressed the release. With a burst of light, Nacli emerged, its small, rocky form appearing somewhat relieved to be out in the open again. The little Pokémon shifted his rocky limbs, his body crackling slightly as if shedding the stiffness of its confinement.
As Arven crouched to meet Nacli's gaze, he placed his hands on his knees, leveling himself with the small rock Pokémon. "Hey, Nacli," he began gently, "How are you holding up?"
Nacli responded in its own unique way, its crystalline structure shimmering slightly in the sunlight as it emitted a series of soft, clicking sounds—a sign of contentment and readiness that Arven had come to understand well.
Arven nodded, pleased with Nacli's resilience. He looked between his two Pokémon companions, ensuring their attention was focused on him as he outlined the strategy. "So you guys know the plan, right? If we meet this Bombirdier, we're not going to try and fight it. We just need to follow it." He explained how Bombirdier used the apron on its chest to bundle up food, which it then carried back to its nest. "So if it's been eating the Herba, well—then it considers that food."
Mabostiff and Nacli nodded, their expressions showing they understood the importance of tracking the Bombirdier rather than confronting it directly.
Turning his focus to Nacli, Arven continued, "And that nest might be high, so you're going to have to help us scale the cliff, or—worst case scenario—bring the nest down." Nacli looked up at Arven, its eyes glinting with a determined resolve, a clear sign it was prepared for the task ahead.
Arven wiped his brow, the action more from nerves than from the heat of the day. "Alright. Let's do this." He stood up, taking a moment to steady himself, his gaze drifting momentarily as he thought of his friends. He wished they were here. Maybe then, he wouldn't feel so…well, alone. But this was what was best. He couldn't keep asking for their help and putting them in danger.
With that thought, Arven quickly refocused, aware that the success of their mission rested on his shoulders, along with the trust his Pokémon placed in him.
With a deep breath, Arven signaled to Mabostiff and Nacli, and together, they continued their trek along the river, alert and ready to follow the trail that would lead them to the Titan Pokémon.
Serena had forgotten her Rotom Phone.
It had been lying on the counter next to the mixing bowl. Only in hindsight did she realize that she had dropped her apron on it—covering it. And hidden, it had been forgotten. What made it worse was that Serena had reminded herself to grab it in order to text Ash later, but in her rush with everything, the mental reminder slipped by her.
"I'm sure it's fine," she whispered to Sylveon, who walked beside her now.
She didn't want to worry him after all. Ash had other responsibilities right now. Either way, they were just looking for Arven, and once they found him, Serena would shake some sense into him and they would all go back to Mesagoza to regroup. It's not like they were actually trying to find a Titan Pokémon. And they might not even encounter it! So really, she didn't want to worry Ash over nothing…
But still, why hadn't she just called him right away to explain what was happening? Serena gnawed at her lip, her fingers fluttering nervously through her hair. She hated to think she didn't trust Ash to react…positively…but maybe that wasn't it. Maybe it was her. Maybe she had been trying to prove something to him—that she was capable and that she could do things like this and be fine. Besides, she had Clemont and Brock with her.
Serena felt her chest heave at the pent up tension. She should have called, but she didn't. Ash would have supported her in her decision and she would have had a clearer mind going into all of this. Right?
As they continued their trek through the river valley, Serena tried her best not to focus on the "should haves". But despite her attempts to stay focused on the journey and the task at hand, the anxiety continued to eat away at her. She found herself repeatedly rubbing her arms and picking at her nails. Every few steps, a soft sigh escaped her lips, her thoughts circling back to Ash and the call she had failed to make.
Sylveon, sensing her discomfort, brushed gently against her leg, offering silent support. Serena appreciated the gesture, offering a small, grateful smile to her Pokémon companion. Yet, the reassurance did little to ease the persistent worry.
The idea that Serena should ask Brock or Clemont to use their phones to contact Ash had just solidified in her mind when she glanced over at the Pokédoctor. Just as she was about to speak, she noticed him holding his Rotom Phone up skyward, his brow furrowed in frustration.
"Well, it looks like we don't have any signal out here," the Pokédoctor clicked his tongue with disappointment. He turned the device this way and that, hoping for even a flicker of connectivity, but the screen remained stubbornly devoid of any signal bars.
Serena's heart sank a little further. Not only had she left her own means of communication behind, but now it seemed they were all cut off from any outside contact within the deep, winding valleys and layers of cliffs that framed the river. This made the dense greenery around them feel just a bit more oppressive.
However, Clemont's enthusiasm seemed to flare despite the situation. At Brock's lament, he saw an opportunity to showcase one of his latest inventions. With a characteristic flare, he adjusted his glasses, which flashed dramatically under the sunlight filtering through the trees. "Have no fear! The future is now, thanks to science!" Clemont declared, his voice brimming with confidence.
He quickly rummaged through his backpack, pulling out a somewhat cobbled-together device that looked like it had been assembled from various bits of metal and a few spare parts that most people wouldn't recognize. "Behold, the Rotom Phone Signal Procurer!" he announced, holding the contraption aloft for all to see. The device was a network of antennas and wires, connected to a small, blinking box with a dial on it.
Clemont set the device down and began tweaking the dials, his fingers moving deftly over the controls. "This should boost our signal, no matter where we are. Just a little adjustment here and there, and..."
For a moment, it seemed to work. The antennas began to emit a low hum, and the lights on the device flickered with more vigor. Everyone held their breath, watching as Clemont's invention appeared to succeed where modern technology had failed. However, true to Clemont's typical luck, the success was short-lived.
With a sudden, unexpected whine, the device's hum grew louder and more frantic. Clemont, still optimistic, adjusted another dial, trying to stabilize the readings. "Just a little more, I think I've almost got it—" he started to say.
But before he could finish his sentence, the Rotom Phone Signal Procurer reached its limit. With a loud, resounding pop, followed by a series of crackles, the invention exploded in a spectacular display of sparks and smoke. The explosion echoed loudly through the river gorge, reverberating off the walls and sending a few startled bird Pokémon flying out from their perches.
As the smoke cleared, Clemont's face was marked with soot, and his hair was slightly singed. He sheepishly removed his glasses, wiping them clean as he inspected the remains of his device. "Well, it lasted a little longer than usual," he remarked with a dazed series of blinks.
Bonnie threw her hands up in the air. "See, whenever your inventions have stupid names, they're cursed."
Wiping his blackened cheek, the inverter glared at Bonnie with a frown. "But according to you, that would mean all of my inventions are cursed."
"Exactly," Bonnie replied, nodding emphatically, her eyes gleaming.
Serena and Brock exchanged quick glances, both sweatdropping at the siblings' banter. However, the bickering was cut short.
Suddenly, the ground beneath them shuddered violently, and a loud explosion echoed through the gorge, far surpassing the volume of Clemont's device malfunction.
Startled, Serena grabbed Brock's arm for balance as they both looked around, trying to pinpoint the source of the disturbance. Clemont stood and pulled Bonnie behind him. The unexpected tremor sent a ripple of alarm through the group, their hearts racing.
The sounds of explosions and eruptions continued. Eventually, the honey-blonde's head snapped towards the direction from which it all came, her eyes widening as she pieced together the potential danger. "Arven," she gasped, a mix of fear and determination in her breath. Without a second thought, she took off running headlong towards the source of the sound, her movements swift and purposeful.
"Serena!" Clemont and Brock called out in unison, alarmed by her sudden dash. They exchanged a quick, worried glance before Brock raced after her and Sylveon, Clemont and Bonnie close behind, their feet pounding against the riverbank.
As they ran, a shadow passed overhead, casting a brief moment of darkness that added to the growing strain thickly felt in the atmosphere. They looked up to see something large and indistinct flying away from the direction of the sound—its form too quick to identify against the backdrop of the bright sky.
The earth trembled underfoot again as they heard the unsettling sound of rocks crashing onto the cliffs nearby. The heavy thuds of stone impacting stone sent echoes reverberating through the gorge, amplifying the sense of urgency. Dust and small pebbles rained down from the cliff sides some kilometers away.
The noise of the shifting landscape was thunderous—and the once gently murmuring river suddenly sounded more like a dull roar that only grew more violent and rageful. The relentless barrage continued to shake the very air.
As Serena and Sylveon pressed deeper into the gorge, the landscape shifted dramatically. The once broad riverbank gradually narrowed until it disappeared entirely, leaving no choice but to venture directly into the river itself.
The honey-blonde looked at her companion. "We have to help him," Serena's brows creased and she studied the water. It was shallow here. She stepped in. The river, now swirling against Serena's legs, reached only as high as her mid-calf. She was thankful she wore her traveling boots. "The land looks like it rises up ahead!" She called back to the others, looking forward and studying the landscape, "We should be fine following this for a little while."
Clemont and Brock did not like this idea at all. Bonnie, however, jumped in.
"Oh! It's cold!" she shivered, and Dedenne stayed dry on her head.
"Sure, the odds of the river deepening at a higher elevation is unlikely," Clemont muttered, shuddering as he stepped in, "but still, we can't maneuver as well and therefore are put at a disadvantage."
Serena bit her lip and looked around. Clemont was right. Everything about their position put them at a disadvantage, actually. Though the water was shallow, sometimes even only ankle deep, the river started to run through a particularly narrow section of the gorge, flanked by towering sandstone cliffs that rose steeply and closed in around them. Shafts of light from the afternoon sun struck the rock faces, casting sharp, elongated shadows that criss crossed their path, creating an almost eerie play of light and darkness.
Despite this, the group continued to navigate the rocky river floor, and felt the cool water swirling against them with forceful consistency. Each step required careful calculation as the river's stones, smoothed and slippery, threatened to destabilize her balance. Sylveon stayed close to Serena, her body tense and alert, ready to react to any unexpected shifts in the water's flow. Meanwhile, Clemont's Luxray stayed close to Bonnie and Dedenne, supporting the lemon-haired girl whenever she needed it.
For a brief moment, the distant booming explosions that had punctuated the distance suddenly ceased. The quick silence was unnerving. Serena paused mid-step, her senses heightened, scanning the gorge walls and listening past the rushing river intently for any sign of what might come next.
Just as she took a breath, possibly reassured by the quiet, her heart jumped as something massive crashed into the river just meters ahead of them. The impact sent a shower of water and small rocks splashing violently towards them, forcing Serena and Sylveon to shield their eyes with their arms and ribbons respectively. At the same time, a rumble above signaled that rocks and debris were beginning to dislodge from the nearby cliff, threatening to bury them in rubble.
Reacting quickly, Serena shouted, "Sylveon, Protect!" Without hesitation, Sylveon's body glowed with radiant energy, and a shimmering, translucent shield materialized. The brilliant half-dome enveloped the top and front of the group. Rocks and debris that fell towards them bounced off the magical barrier, crashing into the river.
As the dust settled and their vision cleared, Serena and Sylveon looked up to see a massive shape circling ominously above them in the narrow gorge. Its large wings beat slowly, generating gusts of wind that stirred the remaining dust into swirling eddies. Descending through the limited space between the towering cliff walls was a colossal bird, its presence overwhelming.
"Bombirdier," Brock whispered, partly in awe.
The Titan Bombirdier's sleek, elongated body cut through the gorge with impressive speed. Its long, graceful neck supported a head crowned with a distinct tuft of feathers, and its beak was long, thin, and unmistakably red, adding a vivid splash of color against its more muted body colors. It soared with an elegant poise, but its eyes betrayed a sharp, predatory intelligence. Clutched in its powerful talons was something equally large—a bundle wrapped in its chest, the apron obscuring the view of what it exactly contained.
Clemont's voice was tight with urgency as he was the first to break the tense silence. "Okay, we need to get out of here. Right now!"
Her eyes wide, Bonnie stared up at the imposing figure. "What is that?" she asked, her voice a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might draw the creature's attention directly to them.
The Bombirdier continued to circle lower, its massive wingspan casting fleeting shadows over the group, reminding them of the sheer size.
As the group stared up at the flying Titan now heading back in their direction, Clemont's Rotom Phone suddenly chirped to life, offering a timely explanation: "Bombirdier, it gathers things up in an apron made from shed feathers added to the Pokémon's chest feathers, then drops those things from high places for fun."
"Yeah," Bonnie grimaced as she watched the large bird above. "That doesn't sound fun at all."
Sensing the escalating threat, Brock reached decisively for a Poké Ball at his belt. With a swift movement, he called out, "Steelix! Let's go!" He threw the Poké Ball, which burst open in midair to release the massive Steel-type Pokémon.
He emerged with a thunderous roar, his serpentine body uncoiling powerfully as he materialized. The ground trembled slightly under its immense weight, and its metallic hide glinted in the sunlight, imposing and ready for battle.
Brock pointed towards the Bombirdier, his voice firm and commanding. "Steelix, use Stone Edge!" Obedient and quick to respond, Steelix slammed its massive tail into the base of a nearby cliff. The impact was forceful and precise, causing pointed light blue rock pillars to burst forth from the cliff face. These jagged spires of stone hurtled towards the Titan Pokémon, intending to encourage the Flyting-type to change course.
Bombirdier reacted with a loud, defiant call. Before veering away, it released a large boulder from its chest, the massive rock down hurtling towards the group with incredible force. The boulder spiraled, gaining speed, in its dangerous descent.
But Steelix's Stone Edge was already in motion. The rock pillars intercepted the boulder mid-air with a loud crack. There was a deafening crash as rock met rock. The collision resulted in a violent explosion of shards. Both the boulder and the stone pillars pulverized each other, disintegrating into nothing but a cloud of dust that filled the air and slowly settled around them, leaving the group momentarily shrouded in a gritty haze.
Once the dust fully dissipated, the group scanned the skies, but the Titan Pokémon was nowhere to be seen or heard for the time being. Serena seized the moment of calm to regroup, her teeth chattering slightly from the cold water that soaked her clothes. Looking towards Brock, concern lining her features, she asked, "Brock, can Steelix scale these cliffs and get us out of here?"
Brock turned his gaze to Steelix, who was already assessing their surroundings. The massive Pokémon gave a low rumble and motioned towards a series of more jagged cliffs further up the river, indicating a potential path.
"We'll need to go a little further up river," Brock explained, following Steelix's gaze. "The cliffs here are too steep," he added, his eyes tracing the sheer rock faces that loomed around them.
Clemont silently calculated their next moves, his arm holding Bonnie close to him, much to her annoyance. "We better hurry," he added gravely.
Everyone nodded in agreement, understanding the need to relocate quickly to a more advantageous position. Shivering but resolute, they began to make their way further upriver. They fought against the current, their bodies tensed and ready.
Gary sped through the river valley astride his Arcanine, the powerful Pokémon's paws kicking up splashes as they raced along the river's edge. The cool air whipped through Gary's auburn hair, bringing with it the fresh, earthy scent of the surrounding wilderness. While he and Arcanine scanned the area, his mind kept returning to Ash's call.
The researcher knew how much it meant for Ash to reach out like that. In fact, Gary didn't think Ash had ever reached out to him for help before. Sure, they'd been at odds with each other at the start of their journeys before making things right, but by some point in his career, Ash had gotten strong enough—or had had friends and Pokémon enough—to handle what he needed to get done. So, while a part of Gary jumped at the chance to help out his oldest—and also, strongest—friend, he couldn't help but feel the pressure.
Especially since this was mostly about Serena.
Gary groaned softly, patting Arcanine's broad neck appreciatively as the Fire-type Pokémon slowed to a walk to catch its breath. The cool, mist-laden air of the river valley filled their lungs, mixing with the lingering adrenaline of the run. Arcanine's sides heaved gently beneath Gary's hand while the researcher's thoughts continued to swirl.
Ash was more than just a former rival now; yeah, he had become like a brother. This deep-seated bond made Ash's call all the more significant, and Gary felt a strong compulsion to support him in any way possible. And now, Ash loved someone. This made Gary's own concern for Serena's safety intensify, not just out of loyalty to Ash but also from a sincere desire to ensure that no harm came to someone so important to his best friend. This was where the pressure was coming from, Gary decided, rubbing his face with some irritation. If Serena was in danger. He couldn't mess up.
Hopefully, Ash was just overreacting—after all, Serena wasn't in any immediate danger as far as Gary knew. Of course, he could understand Ash's frustration, especially since it did kind of look like Serena was just 'waltzing' into something potentially dangerous without even giving Ash a warning.
"At the same time, Ash does the same thing—like all the time," Gary felt his eye twitch as he muttered his thoughts to Arcanine. "He really has no right to be so upset." He shook his head, his gaze scanning the rugged terrain of Paldea's expansive valley. "And now, here we are in this maze… Paldea needs to cool it on all these cliffs, I swear."
They had been circling the coordinates Ash had provided, but the terrain was challenging, and they had passed through the same points numerous times. Opting for a different strategy, Gary decided to take the higher ground, hoping it would give them a better vantage point. Arcanine moved with ease—finding a narrow path that cut up from the river and back onto the surrounding cliffs; his paws accustomed to both the soft earth and the rocky outcrops.
As they rode the higher ground, Gary continued his one-sided conversation with a wry chuckle. "Find a giant bird, he says. Make sure she's safe, he says. The things I do for these people." He scanned the horizon, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I mean, how does he expect us to even find them in this huge valley? Honestly, they're probably all fine and having a picnic or—"
His thoughts were abruptly cut off by a distant rumble, something that sounded like an explosion or a landslide. Gary cursed under his breath, his face paling as he immediately turned Arcanine towards the source of the sound. "Arceus," he muttered, feeling his heart sink into his stomach.
That did not sound good.
"Let's go!" he commanded sharply. Arcanine howled in response, a deep, resonant sound that echoed through the valley. With a powerful surge of energy, the Fire-type Pokémon took off with all his might, his muscles rippling beneath his fiery mane.
Gary clung tightly to Arcanine's back, his resolve hardening with every thunderous beat of paws against the ground. The stakes were clear in his mind, and he was determined to do whatever it took to ensure that everyone was safe—especially since he knew all too well how Ash would react if anything went amiss. The urgency of their mission fueled their rapid ascent through the increasingly treacherous landscape, with Gary's eyes fixed on the path ahead, ready for whatever they might find.
The third round of the Blitz game was underway, and the tension in the air was palpable. It was the final round—if Team Scarlet won. Ash, soaked with sweat from the intense physical effort, could feel every muscle in his body aching. His breathing was heavy,the relentless pace of the game and the high stakes involved catching up with him. Despite the fatigue setting into his limbs, the adrenaline surging through him fueled his force of will to push even harder.
The game itself was a whirlwind of action, with both teams battling fiercely for dominance. The crowd roared with excitement as players from both teams executed daring maneuvers and strategic plays. Nemona, playing as Keeper, was in top form, her reflexes sharp and focused. At a critical moment, she showcased her skill by leaping off her Cyclizar to intercept a ball that was seconds away from swooping into their hoop. With incredible agility, she caught the ball mid-air and managed to land gracefully back on her Pokémon, drawing cheers and applause from the spectators.
Seeing an opportunity, Ash called out urgently from across the field. "Nemona, pass it here!" His voice cut through the noise of the crowd, desperate and commanding. The clock was ticking down, and they needed two more scores to secure the lead and the game. The pressure was mounting. Every second counted.
Nemona nodded and hurled the ball across the field with precision. Ash, anticipating the trajectory, maneuvered his Cyclizar to meet the pass. It was a clean catch.
As Ash gripped the Blitz ball, scanning the field for his next move, he noticed Goh advancing up the field with the other ball, his movements quick. Past mid-field, Ash caught sight of Brutus, the silver-haired Galarian, positioned strategically and seemingly open for a pass. Without hesitation, Ash called out, his voice ringing clear over the tumult of the game, "Brutus!"
With a powerful throw, Ash sent the ball spiraling towards Brutus. It cut through the air with precision, heading straight for the Galarian who was perfectly placed to make a winning move.
Brutus's eyes gleamed as he watched the ball approach. In that moment, he faced a choice. He could easily catch the ball, score, and solidify Team Scarlet's win. Or, he could mess with Ash Ketchum, who seemed desperate to have this game over with, and get the "perfect" champion—always in control, always "the golden boy"—angry.
Brutus chose the latter.
As the ball neared, he positioned himself as if ready to catch it. However, at the last moment, with a sly grin, Brutus let the ball slip through his fingers, watching it bounce harmlessly away on the field.
The stadium gasped in unison, the shock of the dropped pass rippling through the crowd. Ash, stunned, could only watch as the opportunity slipped through their fingers—literally. Seconds later, Goh managed to score with his ball, but it wasn't enough. The final whistle blew, signaling the end of the round, with a Team Scarlet loss. They would need to play the fourth and final round.
Ash's mind went blank as he watched a slow smirk spread across Brutus's face. His disbelief and confusion clouded his thoughts. That pass had been right in Brutus's hands—perfectly aimed, perfectly timed. There was no way it should have been dropped—especially with how good of a player Brutus was.
Ash barely registered the movements on the field. As Team Scarlet brought their Cyclizars back to the sidelines for a huddle, each rider dismounted to grab some water and catch their breath. Ash, almost in a daze, slid off his Cyclizar.
His chest was on fire. Another round meant more wasted time, delaying him even further from going after Serena and the others. He stood beside his Cyclizar, his hands hanging limply by his side, the weight of disappointment and frustration manifesting into clenched fists.
As Ash stood there, lost in his thoughts, Brutus's voice cut like a knife being thrust into his abdomen. "Maybe if Ketchum made better passes, this game would be over already," the Galarian scoffed, side-eying Ash as he aggressively gulped down water from his bottle. He then splashed some water on his face and neck, seemingly unfazed by the tension his actions had caused.
Ash's frustration boiled over. He ripped off his helmet with a swift, violent motion and threw it onto the ground with a resounding clatter. The noise echoed across the sideline, drawing the attention of teammates. He was done trying to keep his temper in check—the fury in him scrambling to find an outlet.
Eyes ablaze and jaw clenched, Ash marched towards Brutus. His mind was a blur, barely registering the gasps and murmurs as he closed the distance. Before he fully realized what he was doing, Ash's hands were balled into fists, gripping the fabric of Brutus's jersey tightly. With a forceful yank, he pushed Brutus onto a nearby bench, causing a cooler and several bottles of water to crash to the ground in a chaotic spray.
Before Ash could land a blow, Goh and Aliquis rushed over, slack jawed. Coach Saguaro's large hands swiftly intervened, his grip iron-tight as he pulled Ash back, separating him from Brutus. Despite the commotion, Brutus merely smirked, making a show of looking detached.
"Is that the same look you had on at the Gala? When you punched Guillermo?" Brutus sneered, his voice dripping with derision as he drove the knife further in.
"Enough!" Coach Saguaro bellowed. With the massive breadth of his muscular arms, he held the two apart effectively. The coach's face was stern, his disappointment clear. "You are both sitting out the next round. I will not have enemies on the pitch. You play as a team, or you don't play at all."
As the gravity of the situation sunk in, Ash's face fell and paled, a stark contrast to the intensity that had flared just moments before. He suppressed the urge to wretch, instead running his hands through the sweat-slicked hair clinging to his forehead. Now benched, he was left to hope that his team could clinch the next round without him, avoiding a drawn-out overtime that he felt he couldn't afford.
Meanwhile, Brutus nonchalantly reseated himself on the team bench, stretching out with a casual arrogance. He threw his arms back behind him and reclined as if settling in to enjoy the game from the sidelines, fully embracing his role as spectator with a leisurely flair.
Nemona, concerned by Ash's distant, dazed expression, grabbed him by the shoulders. "Ash?" she muttered, her lips twisting into a frown.
Coach Saguaro gently waved Nemona aside and pulled Ash a few steps away from the rest of the team. The coach's experienced eyes saw more than just a player overwhelmed by the heat of the moment; he recognized a deep, consuming energy in Ash that was far from sustainable. While he had never seen Ash play so well before, it was clear to Saguaro that Ash was burdened, playing with a mindset that he had to shoulder all the responsibility.
"Chiquillo," the coach began quietly, leaning in so only Ash could hear, "you are not yourself. You are not trusting the team and that is not like you."
Ash felt numb, the muscles along his jaw twitching slightly as Saguaro's words sank in. Finally, he spoke, his voice low and filled with resignation. "I'm sorry I'm letting the team down." He felt like a failure, failing on all fronts, unable to control his emotions, as if he were starting a new journey at level one.
"You are not letting the team down. You are too hard on yourself," Saguaro replied, his tone softening into a small smile. "Now tell me, what is wrong?"
Ash hesitated, struggling with the admission. "I really can't say. It's just…I need to be somewhere else right now. I have something I need to take care of." He hated how lame it all sounded, but it was the truth, and he was at a loss for what else to do. He had really tried to stay in the game. He had tried to be there for his team—but in the end he couldn't. He just needed to go help his friends—to go protect Serena.
Saguaro eyed Ash thoughtfully, then straightened up, a plan forming in his mind. "I am not allowed to let a student leave the team during a team trip," he stated officially, but then he winked at Ash, lowering his voice. "Pero, why don't you go to the locker room and...rest." His voice carried a hidden implication. "And if I find you have left; well, then I will get very upset, and demand an apology and maybe you will have to clean some Cyclizar stables."
Ash's eyes widened before they turned steely as he nodded, understanding the coach's covert permission. He quickly started towards the locker room, stripping off his gear as he moved, each step faster than the last.
Saguaro watched him go, his hands resting on his hips while Pachirisu scampered up beside his thick legs. He sighed, a half-smile playing on his lips. "Why do I have a feeling this has to do with a woman?" he muttered to himself.
Pachirisu looked up at him, its tiny head bobbing in what seemed like agreement, echoing the sentiment of its human companion.
As soon as Ash made it past the edge of town, with Pikachu scampering at his side, he pulled out his phone to check for any messages. His screen remained starkly empty—no updates, no guidance, nothing. He looked up at the expansive afternoon sky, closing his eyes for a moment to steady his racing heart and to calm his rapid breathing.
Opening his eyes, Ash quickly pulled up the coordinates on his Rotom phone. His heart sank as he calculated the distance; it would be impossible to reach the destination by foot before the end of the day. But he had another option. Holding his breath, Ash glanced around quickly, ensuring the coast was clear, before he reached for a particular Poké Ball. "Koraidon," he called softly as he released the Legendary Pokémon.
Koraidon emerged, his appearance marked by a swirl of energy. The creature looked mildly surprised to be called upon in this setting; but quickly focused his intense gaze on Ash, picking up on the trainer's urgency and worry. Koraidon, with its mighty stature and scarlet scales shimmering slightly in the light, seemed to understand the gravity of the situation without a word.
"It's, uh, Serena. We need to find her," Ash explained, his voice cracking slightly with the stress of the moment.
Koraidon blinked slowly, then nodded decisively. He turned his body to allow Ash to mount, showing his readiness to assist in the urgent quest. Ash quickly climbed onto Koraidon's broad back, his eyes alight with a fiery determination. Extending a hand, he helped Pikachu hop on behind him, ensuring his faithful companion was secure.
With a firm grip, Ash then moved the bill of his hat to the back, signaling his readiness to face whatever challenges lay ahead. "Alright, let's do this!" he declared, strong and resolute.
Koraidon chuffed again and then took off at a gallop. The ground thundered beneath his heavy steps as he moved swiftly, navigating the terrain as best as his strength would allow. Ash, holding tightly to Koraidon's antennas, felt a rush of wind whip past him, the landscape blurring as they accelerated towards their destination, driven by urgency and the unspoken promise to do whatever it took to be there for Serena.
After an intense and ultimately victorious Blitz game, the members of Scarlet Academy's team made their way out of the stadium, a mix of exhaustion and relief evident in their steps. As they walked toward the Pokémon Center where they were staying, Nemona couldn't help but express her frustration about Ash's sudden departure.
"But we may need his help taking down the Team Star camp!" Nemona exclaimed, clearly annoyed by the absence of their key player. "When we find it, that is…" she admitted, sharing Pawmo's cheeky grin.
Goh puffed up his chest, feeling pretty good about his performance during the final rounds of the game. "Well, at least you still have me and Gimmighoul!"
The small Pokémon stood a bit taller on Goh's shoulder amidst the chatter, his eyes gleaming with a mix of mischief and satisfaction.
Aliquis raised a dark eyebrow, "That was a joke, right?" He sniffed at the tiny Treasure Hunter and took a bite out of a bombón before tossing one to his Meowscarada who sauntered beside him.
Penny rolled her eyes, pushing her glasses higher onto the bridge of her nose. "Actually, I'm pretty sure Gimmighoul got all your Pokémon out of a jam earlier. So at least he'll be helpful."
Goh's mind backtracked, his brow furrowing. "Wait, do we know why Ash left?"
Nemona shook her head, her expression turning serious. "No…I tried calling but he didn't respond. He's definitely getting suspended for leaving a team trip without director approval." She shuddered at the thought.
Aliquis scrunched his nose, tilting his head. "And we have Clavell's approval?"
With a proud grin, Nemona waved a signed slip of paper. "Yes, actually," she declared, clearly pleased with herself.
Penny scoffed, shaking her head "Did you tell him that we're hanging back to attend a party?"
Nemona folded the paper and tucked it away, her smile not faltering. "I told him we were hanging back for 'official Team Star Business.'" She winked.
Penny responded with a dry, "Incredible…"
Undeterred by the skepticism, Nemona clapped her hands enthusiastically. "Alright! Now let's go get ready!" She led the way, her energy and excitement undiminished despite the ache in her limbs.
As the group continued their walk back to the Pokémon Center, their conversation drifted to plans for the upcoming encounter with Team Star and the evening's less official activities.
I know, I know. Not much Amourshipping this time, but we've had some fun so now it's time to be patient ;) I know some of you are dying to see more kisses, and you will, don't worry. In the meantime, keep an eye out for a collection of one-shots/vignettes I'll be posting either Tuesday or Wednesday called "Life with You" (Or something like that.) Might be a little more mature in the rating level. I've had this idea for a while, to literally just depict Ash and Serena in like daily domestic life—as I find those moments so sweet. They won't be perfect or very long—trying to practice just writing fluffy (and maybe some smutty) things without worrying about pages and pages of background detail. Honestly, it will really just be a place for me to experiment, if you will, and practice different dynamics before putting on the real show in this fic.
As always, thank you for reading and let me know what you think! :) Love hearing from you all!