Hello everyone, I'm sorry for the wait for this chapter, but there's a few "good" reasons. I'm sure all of you already know why, and I kinda finished this some time ago, yet got lazy and didn't post it. Not to mention I recently went to Melbourne and started watching Code Geass, but not the point. I know that soon Ash won't be the main character anymore, and I'm sad about that.

I take comfort knowing that the show will continue, but my heart breaks at the thought of Ash no longer being the main character. He's been the protagonist for years now, ever since I was a kid, so to hear he's getting replaced is heartbreaking. I've seen many anime shows continue with main characters getting replaced, but I never thought Ash would be one. It won't affect my story, but my spirit is hurt from the knowledge. Anyway, time for some review answering now.

kieranroy22: I hate to break it to ya, but that's not gonna happen.

Guest (rude one): Oh, shove it jackass!

Beyblade and pokemon bro: I'll think about it. Also, I'm trying here.

TheOfficialLieDetector: What do you mean by that?

Antex-The Legendary Zoroark: I'm taking a small break from this.

Ts22: Hell no, I never even got to battling them.

GA Pokemon Fan: Why?

Tony Anderson: Noted.

The Black Latios: Yeah, he did.

That's all for now. Enjoy the chapter, it has been ong overdue.

Chapter 26: Battle of Mt. Chimney.

It has been 5 days since the gang left Fallarbor Town and began their journey to Lavaridge Town. In that time, only two events have taken place. The first event happened the day after they left Fallarbor town; May was still giddy about winning her first ribbon that she acted like a child on Christmas without shame, while everyone else watched her. They were understanding of the brunette's delight as it was her first ribbon she's won, so they left her be as jolly as she wanted.

Just then, the silence of the forest was broken by the sounds of banging drums. The gang followed the sound, which took them up a fleet of stairs and stumble across a group of people camped out. Among them was an old friend of theirs; Thatcher with his Plusle and Minun. The young boy and his Pokémon were overjoyed to see the gang again with Ash just as happy to see the young boy as well. Thatcher told the gang he joined a pep squad that believes in the power of cheering, something that got raised eyebrows from Sorrel and Lucario. Unknown to them was that Team Rocket were watching them and saw this as a perfect opportunity to steal Pikachu.

With the gang and Thatcher, the young boy told his mentor and friends how he went on a journey after they last met, and in that time, was recruited by the man in charge of the pep squad after he had witnessed the Helping Hand combo of Plusle and Minun. Max didn't really believe the information Thatcher gave them about the pep squad as it seemed to be against the rules of Pokémon battling. He asked Brock for confirmation, yet the former Gym Leader was already off flirting with the female members, that is until Throh and Chatot came out and double teamed him.

Unlike Max, Thatcher seemed to believe what Sheridan, the leader of the pep squad school, told him and seemed to have a strong belief in it. Ash and the gang still didn't seem convinced, Sorrel and Lucario even seemed suspicious of the whole thing. While they were discussing, Team Rocket went off to Sheridan and recruited him to assist their efforts, which he agreed though he didn't know about their goal of stealing Pikachu. Unknown to Team Rocket though was that Sheridan's whole pep squad was actually a scheme as he used hidden Pokémon in the drums to use Helping Hand.

While Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi played with Plusle and Minun, the gang was approached by a female member of the pep squad. She asked them for a favor, something that Brock was more than ready to do, until Throh brought him into its famous firemen hold again. Thatcher told them that Sheridan had "new students" and that he wants the gang to be in a test battle against them. The gang agreed to the request, even Sorrel and Lucario despite their suspicions. They formally met Sheridan, who greeted them respectfully.

The gang greeted him back, except for Sorrel and Lucario. The Aura Pokémon was on guard around the man as it could sense Sheridan's Aura wasn't good, something that Lucario told Sorrel about. Brock was willing to battle first, that is until Ash took over and told him that he'd handle it. The Rainbow Hero was just as suspicious as his sworn brother as his six senses were going off. Sheridan was okay with Ash going first, with the female member calling out the disguised Jessie, James and Meowth. The disguises of the three worked their charms as the gang couldn't recognize them, and Lucario's focus was on Sheridan.

So, Ash faced off against Jessie, who used a fake name of "Jessica". The Rainbow Hero went with his Dragonite, while "Jessica" went with Trubbish. As the battle began, Sorrel, Max, Lucario and Jirachi investigated the true nature of this pep school. The battle was very one-sided at the beginning as Dragonite's Dragon Dance increased its attack and speed, before going onto a merciless attack that Trubbish barely survived. Yet for some strange reason, after the pep squad began cheering, the Poison type magically healed and was powered up.

This raised alarms for Ash and his investigating friends. The Rainbow Hero focused on the battle and continued having Dragonite fight Trubbish, who kept on healing and powering up every time it was knocked down. Yet every time it happened, blue electricity that was almost too fast for the naked eye, came out of the drums and engulfed Trubbish in it.

Ash, Sorrel and Max were the only ones able to detect it. Dragonite soon began getting tired, while Trubbish was still somehow getting re-energized. Luckily for the Rainbow Hero just as he was about to try out a Z-Move, Sorrel, Max, Lucario and Jirachi struck and revealed Sheridan's hidden Pokémon inside the drums.

Both Lucario and Jirachi attacked with Aura Sphere, destroying the drums and revealing knocked out Roselia, Vileplume, Makuhita, and Shroomish that were inside. Everyone became alarmed at seeing the four with Sorrel and Max explaining Sheridan's scheme how he used a microphone hidden from view to give commands to his Pokémon, healing and powering up Trubbish. Realizing the jig was up, Sheridan quickly took off with his Pokémon following him. Team Rocket decided to quit hiding in disguises and take Pikachu plain and simple.

But their plain was ruined thanks to Ash's strong bond with his Pokémon. And the deciding factor was the Rainbow Hero trying out his new Dragon Z-Move with Dragonite. The two performed it perfectly, and blasted Team Rocket off once again. The gang celebrated their victory with Thatcher expressing his strong admiration of the Rainbow Hero once more. The other students of the pep school decided to follow Ash's lead and believe in the bonds they shared with their Pokémon as well. Later on as the sun began to set, the gang resumed their journey, bidding farewells to their friend Thatcher and the other students of the pep school.

2 days after that, the second event took place. The gang decided to take a shortcut through Fiery Path, yet that ended up going badly as May's Skitty once again came out on its own and attacked a wild group of Slugma. Enraged, the horde of Fire types attacked the gang, who all ran away as fast as they could since they had no need to attack the Slugma. Max and Jirachi weren't happy with the whole situation and made that clear to May, who kept a tight hold on Skitty so that it won't cause more problems for them.

As they ran, Verity spotted a crack in the cavern walls offering a glimmer of hope. So, the Twinleaf girl had her Piplup use Drill Peck to smash right through the crack, creating an escape route that they all used. As they run to safety, the gang sliped down a steep embankment and found themselves on an open plain. The Slugma didn't chase after them and instead went back into the cave. Skitty broke free of May's arms and ran off again, this time to a sleeping Numel, a Pokémon that reminded Ash of Camerupt. Skitty attacked the sleeping Pokémon, yet was unable to deal any damage and quickly lost energy.

May still drew annoyed at her Pokémon's attics, and quickly recalled Skitty before it could do any more harm. Just then, the Numel suddenly woke up, but not from being attacked by Skitty, but because it had grown hungry. Out of nowhere, a Furret ran up to the Numel as it was chomping on berries on a nearby tree. And then a female voice called out towards the Nume Pokémon, catching the gang's attention as they looked and saw what appeared to be a young woman in farmers garb approaching them with more Numels. The gang would later find out her name is Julie.

Brock was love struck as usual at the sight of Julie, who took notice of the gang. She formally introduced herself to them, which the gang introduced themselves as well. Brock tried making a move on Julie, until Chatot came out and wrecked his attempts yet again. The Numel that the gang spotted even provided assistance. The Fire type then tried taking off, but Julie and her Furret quickly acted and stopped the Numel. Everyone was impressed a bit when Julie guessed that they came from the Fiery Path and ended up out here.

She figured out they were on their way to Lavaridge Town for a Gym Battle, much to everyone's awe. Julie explained that travelers that traveled to Lavaride Town passed through here on their way, explaining that they get chased by Slugma like how they were, and end up here. She then offered them a chance to rest at her place. The gang appreciated Julie's offer and accepted it. Julie led them to her ranch, and even offered them a chance to spend the night at her place, an offer that they accepted as well. She even offered a homecooked meal, yet Brock and Sorrel were insistent that they cook as their way to thank Julie.

Thanks to some comments from Verity, May and Max, Julie decided to allow it. The gang pulled their weight by helping Julie with her Numel, not knowing that once again they were being watched by Team Rocket in the distance. Jessie, James and Meowth even decided to go after the Numel instead of Pikachu this time as well.

Sorrel, Brock, Max, Lucario and Jirachi were the main helpers with Julie's Numel, even though she was okay doing the work herself. Meanwhile with Ash, Verity, May, Pikachu and Piplup, the Petalburg girl told her fellow Pokemon Coordinator and boyfriend her desire to start training Skitty. The Rainbow Hero and his main girlfriend had no problem with that as they figured it was past time Skitty started getting training, even start Klefki's training as well. May was fine with training her team's new addition, but wanted to focus on Skitty first.

Verity was willing to help May train Skitty with a battle, but then Julie came up and offered herself and Furret being May's training partners. The brunette agreed and battled Julie with Skitty. The battle wasn't exactly a good one as May lost badly, yet it helped her with Skitty. In the battle, Julie helped May figure out Skitty's special move, Assist. Assist was a move that randomly allowed Skitty to use the moves of May's other Pokémon. The first Assist ended up being Combusken's Fire Spin, something Furret dodged skillfully. May tried Assist once more, which ended up as Shellos' Water Gun attack.

Despite May's new use of Assist, Julie and her Furret proved too much for her and Skitty. They ended the battle with a strong Slam attack. Ash immediately brought out a Fell Restore and passed it over to May, which she used to heal Skitty. Despite her lost, the Petalburg girl wasn't really bothered by it as she thanked Julie as it allowed her to get a good hand on Assist. She was a little worried about Assist ending up using Jirachi's Doom Desire attack but kept that quiet. For the rest of the afternoon, Ash and Verity helped May train her Skitty and Klefki, making a small bit of progress as Skitty learned Charm.

Later on in the night, May fed her Skitty and Klefki with yummy Pokéblock meant for Normal and Steel types. Ash, Verity, May, Julie and their Pokémon sat around a small wooden table and had a nice chat with one another. The two young Pokémon Coordinators even learned that Julie used to be one as well, much to everyone's surprise. Julie told them all that she was very impressed with Skitty, finding the Normal type truly something interesting. She was certain that with more practice, Skitty and May would make an incredible team that'll be tough to defeat, something that Verity agreed wholeheartedly with.

Their words delighted May, filling her with excitement at the thought of entering a contest with Skitty. Max came and told them all dinner was ready, immediately grabbing the attention of Ash and Pikachu. Julie was amazed at seeing the amazing food Brock and Sorrel had made, now seeing why everyone was so insistent on them cooking. Everyone enjoyed a nice, satisfying breakfast before they went to bed. Later on in the night, Team Rocket made their move with a giant robot that was designed after Numel. They started picking up all the sleeping Numel one by one with robotic arms.

They may have been quiet enough for the sleeping humans inside the house not to hear them, but the same couldn't be said for their Pokémon. First Furret heard the noise and woke up Julie, then Pikachu and Lucario heard it as well. They woke up everyone, except for Jirachi who was fast asleep, and looked out the window, where they saw Team Rocket stealing the sleeping Numel. Just as they were about to head out, Skitty came out yet again and took off. Everyone quickly got changed in their clothes, before going outside. Julie demanded to know what was happening, and Team Rocket answered by doing their motto.

The gang got angry at seeing the three trying to steal someone's Pokémon again. Ash had Pikachu use Thunderbolt on their machine, yet it did nothing as Team Rocket's machine was electric proof. Team Rocket began taking by charging towards the gang, Skitty charged at them as well. May ran after her Normal type with Max and Jirachi right behind her. Skitty leaped into the air, something that May did as well as she chased after the Normal type and grabbed Skitty in her arms. However, they ended up grabbing onto one of the robotic arms that slammed down on the ground.

Team Rocket's machine leaped over the gang, much to their surprise, and landed away from them. They retracted their robotic hands inside, not knowing May and Skitty were pulled along for the ride and took off. Max was completely worried for his sister, and tried to wake up Jirachi to have him use Teleport to bring his sister and the Numel back. But the little Steel and Psychic type just wouldn't wake up. Left with no choice, the gang chased after Team Rocket in the normal way using Julie's truck. Ash was determined to get his second girlfriend back, no matter what.

They followed the Numel machine's footsteps that it left, and eventually caught up with Team Rocket. But surprisingly, May, Skitty and the Numel had managed to escape and wreck the machine altogether. The gang reunited with their friend, while Julie reunited with her Numel. Team Rocket wasn't ready to call any quits just yet as they were ready to battle. Jessie sent out Dustox, and James went with Axew. Unfortunately for them, the gang wasn't in the mood for them. Ash and Julie battled and immediately blasted them off with Pikachu's Volt Tackle attack.

Julie was greatly amazed with Pikachu's power, while everyone else was just simply glad everything ended alright for them. The same Numel that the gang first saw earlier in the day then took off and began eating some nearby fruit on a tree, much to Julie's amusement. The next day, everyone bid farewell to Julie early in the morning. She pointed the gang in the direction that lead to Mt. Chimney and the cable car that could get them to Lavaridge Town quickly. Everyone gave their thanks to Julie with Brock trying one last attempt at making a move on her, only for Max and Jirachi to ruin it and drag him away. They bid farewell as they walked off.

After a single day of traveling, the gang have made it to the bottom of Mt. Chimney, right where the Base Station of the Cable Car service was located. Ash and Pikachu broke off from the group as the Rainbow Hero began running towards the small building with an excited expression. Just as a bell went off in the base station, the Rainbow Hero stopped and turned towards his friends, raising his right hand up into the air. "Guys, hurry up! We're gonna miss the cable car!" The raven-haired boy called out with an excited voice. "Pika!" The Electric Mouse cried with a wide smile from atop Ash's left shoulder.

Ash then resumed running towards the cable car's station with the intention to board the one that's leaving. Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock and Lucario all ran as fast as they could to catch up to the Rainbow Hero. Verity was carrying Piplup in her arms, while Jirachi flew right above Max. Ash's oldest traveling companions and their Pokémon all had bright smiles on their faces, while May, Max and Jirachi didn't appear so happy at how much of a rush Ash was in to get to Lavaridge Town. "Wait, we're coming!" Max called out to his idol, running as fast as he could.

"Hang on! We'll catch the next one!" May exclaimed, getting a chuckle from Verity as she turned to look at the brunette. "If this was about a Pokémon Contest, you'd be rushing us just like Ash is. He's excited to get to his next Gym Battle, so don't rain on his parade". The Twinleaf girl said to her fellow Pokémon Coordinator, getting a grumble from May as she was spot on about that. "Piplup pip". Piplup said from within Verity's hands with a playful smile.

"He's waited patiently for this, so he's well within his rights to be in an excited hurry to Lavaridde Town". Sorrel told the gang, finding nothing wrong with his sworn brother's excited rush to get to their destination as quick as possible. "Rrraaa". Lucario gave a small growl of agreement, honestly preferring to be on the rush than taking it slow. "Ash really wants to reach Lavaridge town as quick as possible". Brock remarked with a playful grin as Ash ran inside of the station. The rest of the gang quickly entered as well, before they all quickly entered the cable car about to take off.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel all sat down on the seats next to one another, while Lucario sat down on the ground and leaned its back against the seats next to his trainer. "Ahh, just in time". The Rainbow Hero said in relief as Verity leaned in close to her boyfriend and rested her head on Ash's shoulder. "Pikachu". Pikachu commented from Ash's shoulder, while Sorrel looked at the exhausted forms of May, Brock and Max. The young boy was sitting down like them with Jirachi sitting down atop his head, May had fallen to her knees and was resting her right arm on the lift seat close to her brother. Finally, Brock was still standing, but was leaning forward with both hands placed on his knees and breathing heavy.

"I feel like I ran all the way from Forina to Mavile City". Max groaned out, leaning back against the seat and taking deep breaths. "Being chased by that weird monster Groudon... That's how exhausted I feel". Max's older sister gasped out, catching Ash's attention as he looked at his exhausted travel companions. "Ahh, quit your complaining already. We're on the cable car now, we can relax and enjoy the ride up Mt. Chimney". The Rainbow Hero said with a small smirk as he folded both hands behind his head. "You sure are in a hurry to get to your next Gym Battle, huh". Brock remarked, turning his face to look at his old friend.

"You have no idea". The raven-haired boy replied, while Sorrel looked down at May and Max's exhausted forms with Jirachi blinking down at his best friend. 'Why are you tired, Max? I'm not tired, so why are you?' The little mythical Pokémon questioned the youngest Maple sibling, getting Max to groan as he looked up at Jirachi. "Because running's a lot more exhausting than flying". The Petalburg boy answered, causing Jirachi to tilt his head to the side in confusion. "Cheer up guys, it'll be worth it to get to Lavaridge Town. It's famous for its hot springs". The Veilstone boy told his exhausted travel companions, immediately getting a gasp of delight from May.

"Why didn't you say so before? Hot springs, now all this rushing around will be worth it". The female Pokémon Coordinator said with an excited joy as she clapped her hands together. Verity gave a giggle down at May, before looking down at Piplup in her hands, who looked up at its trainer with a kind smile. "She's not wrong. Getting the chance to beath in hot springs isn't something that comes around every day. Let's make sure to enjoy it". Verity said to her starter, eager herself to wash her tension away in hot springs. "Piplup pip". Piplup replied to her trainer, looking forward to the hot springs herself.

"Wait!" A familiar voice cried out with three familiar figures running towards the cable car station. It was Team Rocket, disguised as tour guides with Jessie and James having glasses, while Meowth had a wig of gray hair like an elderly woman. "Don't let that cable car go!" The disguised Jessie cried out to the gang inside the cable car. "Two more passengers!" The former rich boy called out, forgetting to include the third member of their team. "Two more?! What about me?! I mean, have respect for an old lady! What am I, chopped liver!?" Meowth exclaimed as the three ran into the station and straight into the cable car, just before the doors closed.

The cable car then took off on a slow pace towards Mt. Chimney, right at the summit station. Inside of it, the disguised Team Rocket all sat down across the gang, while they all looked out towards the large mountain. However, as Ash stared up at Mt. Chimney, he couldn't help but feel on guard. He narrowed his eyes upon thinking back to when he and the others left Mauvile Town, right when they saw those two Team Magma grunts.

'Those guys said they were heading to Mt. Chimney, but what could they want there? Does it have something to do with their goal of using Groudon's powers? Guess I'll find out when we get there'. The Rainbow Hero thought to himself, eyes staring dangerously at Mt. Chimney.

Ash was right to be on guard, as today was gonna be a chaotic one that he's not gonna forget for some time.

(Opening: Pokémon Journeys opening: 1, 2, 3, version 2)

With a green background, three mirrors appeared, one vertical with a rainbow background, the second with a blue background and the third had a green. All three mirrors were showing three familiar pairs of legs of three certain trainers. These windows then closed before opening again, this time showing Ash, Verity and Sorrel all running with eager looks. Ash was running forward, Verity was running right and Sorrel left. The mirrors all closed and disappeared to reveal the title "Pokémon Legend of the Rainbow Hero" in colorless letters, before the Rainbow Wing fell past it, changing the letters all into a rainbow color.

'Hey, you still not ready? C'mon, hurry up!'

The three old friends were standing in a triangle position with their backs towards each other with different coloured grounds below them. Ash's ground was a rainbow colour, Verity's an electric blue and Sorrel's a green color. Ash put his cap on his head with a grin, before adjusting his backpack. Pikachu and Espeon then appeared, jumping onto his shoulders, much to the Rainbow Hero's joy.

'You all packed and ready to leave?'

Verity knelt down for a moment, before she stood up to reveal that she was holding Piplup in her arms with the two partners smiling happily at one another.

Sorrel and Lucario were standing right besides each other with the two looking through Sorrel's notebook that he was holding with his right hand. The two partners looked at each other and smiled.

'I'll show you this wide mysterious world'

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Pikachu, Espeon, Piplup and Lucario were all gathered together, talking to one another happily. It changed to show Sorrel adjusting his right shoe with Lucario stretching his paws out next to his trainer, while Verity had her arms wrapped around her boyfriend's right hand as she gave him a peck on the cheek, resulting in Ash's face turning flushed with Pikachu, Espeon and Piplup laughing in front of them. It then changed to show Ash and Sorrel standing in front of one another, giving a fist up to each other, before Verity appeared from below and wrapped her arms around her two old friends' shoulders, bringing them into a group hug with her eyes closed happily and the two males smiling.

'And skip the slow send-off'.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel then ran out of a Pokémon Center into the outside world. Inside the Pokémon Center, Brock watched them ran out from a bench next to a window, Max and Jirachi were playing together, before they turned to look out the door. May was handing in her Poké Balls to Nurse Joy, before she turned around and gave a warm smile.

'Be it through fire or through water'.

'I'm fumbling blindly through the days'.

'When I don't even know what the next second will bring'.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel were all standing in front of a computer screen as it showed pictures of the legendary trio of Kanto, Moltres, Zapdos and Articuno in three separate pictures with the background showing a map of the Kanto Region. The screen then changed to show Lugia and Ho-Oh in two separate pictures with the background showing a map of the Johto Region.

The computer screen changed to show three separate pictures of Groudon, Kyogre and Rayquaza with a map of the Hoenn Region as the background. The screen changed to show a single picture of Dialga, Palkia and Giratina together with a map of the Sinnoh Region as the background. It changed once more to show a single picture of Zekrom and Reshiram flying around each other with Kyurem in the center with a map of the Unova Region as the background.

The computer screen changed to show two separate pictures of Xerneas and Yveltal with a map of the Kalos Region as the background. The screen then changed once more to show two separate pictures of Solgaleo and Lunala with a map of the Alola Region as the background. Finally, it changed to show a single picture of Zacian (Crowned Sword) and Zamazenta (Crowned Shield) in front of their shrine in the Slumbering Weald.

Ash, Verity and Sorrel were looking over a folding map, before Ash turned excitedly to Sorrel and said something to him, getting him and Verity to turn their attention to him with the Pokémon Coordinator telling her boyfriend something. Pikachu, Espeon, Piplup and Lucario all sat down besides one another and snacked on some cookies gathered around their trainers.

'Each and everyone one of my memories'.

Ash's left rainbow colored eye showed the brightly flashing Rainbow Wing, before the screen zoomed out to show the Rainbow Hero in his transformed state, falling towards a bright light when Ho-Oh came by and flew around with the camera spinning around as well. Ho-Oh flew off as Ash did a flip and pulled out a Master Ball with his left hand. It gleamed with psychic energy, before it burst open with a white beam coming out.

'Can always be found inside a Ball'.

The white beam cleared to reveal Latios flying in the sky with Marshadow on his back, before Latias joined him from the right, now flying besides her brother with the sky above them filled with dark clouds. The two Eon Dragons then flew faster and out of view

A Poké Ball hit the ground and rolled over to Ash's feet. The camera changed to the inside of it with a round shadow showing the outside with the red top transparent. Ash, Verity and Sorrel gazed at the Poké Ball in wonder, before the Twinleaf turned to look at her old friends. The three stepped back as the device opened with a blue light filling the screen.

'On 1, 2, 3, dive in!'

A spotlight shined down on Ash as he thrust his right hand out with a grin, before all his Pokémon charged ahead with spot lights on all of them as well. Pikachu, Espeon, Venusaur, Blastoise, Grovyle, Raikou, Zoroark, Snorlax, Timburr, Deino, Sableye, Corphish, Meganium, Tauros, Kingler, Muk, Typhlosion, Nidoking, Gallade, Kabutops, Skrelp, Rapidash, Gengar, Primeape, Hitmonlee, Ampharos, Ursaring, Donphan, Feraligatr, Tyranitar and Trevenant all charged on ahead on the ground, while Latios, Latias, Charizard, Taillow, Pidgeot, Heracross, Scizor, Lapras, Flygon, Dragonite, Magnezone, Skarmory and Noctowl flew above them with Marshadow riding on Latios' back and Lapras floating thanks to Espeon's Psychic attack.

Pikachu suddenly sparkled with electric, before he leaped and fired Thunderbolt at Sorrel's Aerodactyl, who dodged it by flying by.

'I've got the future plans I imagined in my pocket'.

Verity's Milotic came out of nowhere with a spotlight on her and fired a Mud Shot attack at Sorrel's Lairon, striking the Rock and Iron Type and sending it sliding across the ground past Sorrel, who cried out in surprise. From the side jumped in Lucario with his paws together with an Aura Sphere in between them, getting Sorrel to smile as his Aura Pokémon fired the Aura Sphere, causing the camera to turn around to show Verity standing behind her Milotic, having wide eyes as the blue sphere grew closer.

The screen changed to show Team Rocket all together in the forest with Jessie standing to the right, James to the left and Meowth in the middle. Then from the sides, their Pokémon came out and stood behind them. Jessie had her Seviper, Dustox, Wobbuffet, Trubbish and Gothita gathered behind her, while James had Cacnea, Axew and Parasect behind him.

The three gave confident looks, before the two humans brought out Poké Balls and threw them forward as their Pokémon cheered, before the devices burst open to reveal bright white lights.

'Greeting someone new is always fresh'.

Ash stared up at the sky in amazement as Mega Latios faced off against Primal Kyogre in the air above with it raining heavily around them. Latios charged up a Luster Purge, before he fired it at Kyogre, who narrowed its eyes at the approaching attack.

'No need to hesitate! Try!'

Atop a grassy hill with the sky covered in dark clouds, Verity's Lopunny and Sorrel's Poliwrath stood 10 feet away from each other, before they charged in and began sparking in hand to hand combat with neither of them having the advantage.

Ash, Pikachu, Espeon, Latias, Zoroark, Donphan, Corphish and Dragonite all jumped up and cheered with a rainbow background. Verity, Piplup, Furret, Glameow, Vaporeon, Tangrowth, Kingdra and Lopunny all jumped up and cheered with a blue background. Finally, Sorrel, Lucario, Luxray, Accelgor, Lairon, Victreebel and Poliwrath all cheered with a green background.

'Let's have a fight!'

Atop the Sky Pillar, Ash, Verity and Sorrel all stood side by side with Pikachu riding on his trainer's right shoulder as Mega Sceptile, Mega Houndoom and Mega Gardevoir in front of them, all facing up at the sky where a shiny Mega Rayquaza was roaring down at them.

'1: Once the battle is done'.

The Hoenn Region champion Steven and his Mega shiny Metagross appeared with a silver background. The screen changed to show a stadium, where Steven waved his left hand out, giving a commanded as Mega Metagross unleashed a Flash Cannon attack. The camera shifted to show a Dragonite counter the Flash Cannon with a Hyper Beam attack with Lance standing behind the Dragon and Flying Type, having an excited grin planted on his face.

'2: And we're laughing or crying'.

The Johto Region champion Lance and his Dragonite appeared with a dark blue background. The screen then changed to various photos, the first showing Ash holding up the Johto League Silver Conference trophy in his hands, the second showing Verity holding up the Slateport Pokémon Contest Ribbon in her right hand, the third revealing Sorrel researching a set of ruins with his back turned to the camera.

The fourth photo showed all three friends and their partner Pokémon all together. Verity was in the middle, having a wide smile on her face with her eyes closed with her right hand wrapped around Sorrel's shoulders and left hand around Ash's shoulders, bringing the two smiling males into a group hug. Piplup, Pikachu and Lucario were all in front of their trainers in the photo, smiling wildly at the camera. The final photo showed them all leaning in towards the camera with happy faces.

'On 3, let's be friends!'

The screen changed to show Professor Oak, Tracey, Misty, Delia, Azora and Sylvia all together in Professor Oak's backyard with Azora holding her Pokémon in her arms. Professor Oak and Tracey smiled at each other; Misty winked at the camera and gave the peace sign with her left hand. Delia placed her hands down on Azora's shoulders and smiled down at her, getting Azora and Sylvia both to smile up at her.

The screen changed to show Forina with the sky black and various nocturnal Pokémon about, before Jirachi flew through his homeland, leaving a sparkling trail. A wild Ludicolo jumped into view in a forest, surrounded by several confused Marshtomps, before they all began dancing.

'Any day and every day, that's always been my rule'.

Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Pikachu, Piplup and Lucario stood on a cliff overlooking a city next to a tree with a blue sky filled with clouds. Time began changing as the sky changed to reveal a more clear blue one, then an orange sky as the sun began to set and then a beautiful night sky filled with stars.

The screen changed to show the Raizen Mountains, then to Mount Tensei, right where Ash battled Ho-Oh so long ago.

'With this unpredictable, boundless world awaiting'.

In the Petalburg City Gym, Norman opened his determined filled eyes, before the camera zoomed out to show that he was in the Petalburg Gym's battlefield with his Slaking in front of him. Norman crossed his arms, while Slaking roared as it began pounding its chest like a gorilla.

The screen changed to show Ash kneeling down, before he got up on his feet and walked into an opening surrounded by a white light with Pikachu by his right side.

'Let's go! Every time you trip and fall'.

With a yellow background, Pikachu's ears perked, before both he looked up at Ash as he walked forward with a wild smile that grew wilder as he looked down at Pikachu with a rainbow background. With an icy blue background, Piplup cried out as she looked up.

'Let's go! You pick yourself up by my side'.

With a blue background, Verity walked forward with a grin, before it grew as she looked down at her partner. With a silver background, Lucario's ears perked, before turned his head right to look at Sorrel as he walked forward, before he turned to look at his trusted partner with a green background.

Three mirrors appeared and showed the three old friends in separate mirrors with their Pokémon team. Sorrel was in the left mirror with his Lucario, Bagon, Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, shiny Ariados and Poliwrath around him, facing their direction with a green background. On the right mirror, Verity stood with her Piplup, Suicune, shiny Togepi, Vaporeon, Kingdra and shiny Gardevoir besides her as they faced right with a blue background.

In the middle mirror in between the three was Ash with Pikachu, Dragonite, shiny Trevenant, Donphan, Kingler, and Primeape, all facing forward with a rainbow background.

'I choose you'.

Sorrel lifted his left hand, Verity raised her right hand and Ash held up both of his hands, before all three friends hi-fived each other.

(Opening song ended)

While the gang and Team Rocket were on the cable car to Mt. Chimney, someone familiar to Ash and the others was there, exploring. It was Professor Cozmo from Fallarbor Town. The 40-year-old man was still clothed in the same clothes when we last saw him with his green backpack on. The professor was here in Mt. Chimney searching for meteorites, just like the one he currently has.

As a matter of fact, this place was where he had first discovered the Meteorite a few months ago. Speaking of the rock from outer space, it was safely inside of his bag, close to the male adult and safe from anyone attempting to steal it from his house. Nothing major has happened to Professor Cozmo since the events at Meteor Falls, he's been peacefully left alone to continue his research on the Meteorite without either Team Magma or Team Aqua to disrupt it. Today; he had come to Mt. Chimney to see if there had been any more meteorites that had crashed down here, just like the one he had now.

The adult male held a silver device with his right hand, and a small black duffle bag with the left hand. He was looking down at the device in hand, which was a meteorite metal detector as he walked, keeping an eye out for anything it'll detect. He stopped walking and gazed around his surroundings with a bright smile. "A whole mountain made of rocks, but no sign of one that's like the one I have. Well, I'm in between a rock and a high place". Professor Cozmo joked, before letting out a good-hearted laugh and continued on his way.

(Meanwhile with Ash and the gang)

Back on the cable car, everyone had made themselves comfortable now and were enjoying the ride. Verity looked out the window, allowing her and Piplup to see how high up they were from the solid ground. "Man, now that's a high distance. Good thing if anything went wrong, we could either teleport out of here or just fly out". The tomboyish girl said with a small gulp as she was a bit afraid of heights. "Piplup pip". The Water type said in agreement from Verity's arms, a little bit nervous as she didn't feel completely safe.

"Yeah, but what a great view". May said with a smile, feeling completely safe unlike Verity. "And I bet the view's even better from up the top". Max remarked with an eager smile, before turning his head right to look at Jirachi, who was now floating besides him. 'I can't wait to see the view from up there'. The Wish Pokémon said with a grin, turning to look towards Mt. Chimney.

Sorrel kept silent from besides Brock with Lucario resting against the lift seat on his right. He turned to look at Ash and Pikachu and saw his sworn brother looking at their destination with narrowed eyes. The Veilstone boy raised an eyebrow at seeing this, wondering why Ash had that look directed at Mt. Chimney. "Ash, what's wrong? You look like you're expecting something to happen". Sorrel said with a curious voice, catching everyone's attention as they looked at the Rainbow Hero. Ash turned to look at his sworn brother, not easing his gaze as he spoke.

"That's because I feel like something IS gonna happen up there. Remember what those two Team Magma grunts said back at Mauville City when we were leaving?" The raven-haired boy questioned his sworn brother, getting his travel companions to blink with Lucario turning to look at the Rainbow Hero. Even the disguised Team Rocket gasped in surprise as they were unaware of this piece of information. "I remember now. Those two did say they were heading to Mt. Chimney". Brock remarked with a frown, thinking back to the day they left Mauvile City and when May captured her Azumarill.

"That's right. I can't help myself, but feel on full alert in case Team Magma tries something up there just like back in Meteor Falls. If we're lucky, they won't actually try another scheme, but be ready just in case". The Rainbow Hero told his friends as he crossed both arms, wanting to be ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. Verity, Sorrel, May, Max and Brock all nodded to Ash with Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi all narrowing their eyes.

Meanwhile with Team Rocket, they huddled up in their corner of the cable car to discuss what they've learned. "The twerps ran into Team Magma members back when they were leaving Mauville City? And they were even at Meteor Falls? How did we not notice this?" Jessie questioned her teammates with a confused frown, getting a shrug of the shoulders from James. "Well, we did leave Meteor Falls quickly without going inside. And we had left Mauville before the twerps, so that can't be helped". The disguised former rich boy answered, before wincing upon remembering their last encounter with Team Magma at the Oceanic Museum.

"If Team Magma is gonna be up there at da mountain, now's a good chance of getting some well-deserved payback". Meowth whispered to his teammates, receiving mischievous grins from the two humans as they were more than willing to take the opportunity. Just then, a red futuristic drone designed helicopter with vertical hovers, flew into view out of nowhere, passing through the cable car and onto Mt. Chimney. Ash and Pikachu narrowed their eyes at what they just saw as it wasn't a good sign to them.

Verity turned to look at her boyfriend. "That could have just been someone else. There's no guarantee that it was Team Magma we just saw". The Twinleaf girl said to the Rainbow Hero, catching Ash's attention as he turned to look at her. He silently stared at Verity for a few moments, before looking back out the window. "Maybe you're right. Let's stay here for a bit, but if something happens, we spring into action". Ash told the gang, turning over and leaned his back against the seat.

"Define "something" so that we'll know". Sorrel requested from his sworn brother, wondering what the signal for them to spring into action will be. "Anything out of the ordinary". The Rainbow Hero answered as he crossed both arms, getting Pikachu to chuckle a bit at what he said. "Then I hope that was someone else we just saw. I'd like to have a week without getting into a scuffle with either Team Magma or Aqua". Max groaned out, which May nodded in agreement to his words. Team Rocket was silent as they stared at the gang, ready to go with them to disrupt Team Magma's plans.

The call for action would come soon for our heroes and Team Rocket as the helicopter that they just saw fly by was indeed Team Magma, flying in for yet another mission to accomplish their goals. Inside of the helicopter's main bridge, there were Team Magma grunts sitting down on chairs in front of setups that controlled the helicopter, driving the air vehicle. In the middle of the control room was Team Magma's leader; Maxie sitting down on a black chair with both hands resting on the armrests. Standing 3 feet behind the chair that Maxie was sitting on were the three flames of Team Magma; Tabitha, Courtney and Blaise.

Tabitha was standing right in the middle between his fellow admins with his arms crossed, Blaise was smirking with both hands resting in his pants' pockets. Courtney, on the other hand, was looking out the window in deep thought about something interesting she learned a week ago. The silence of the control room was broken as Maxie addressed his lead Admin. "Tabitha, are you certain that the Meteorite is located with Professor Cozmo here at Mt. Chimney?" The leader of Team Magma questioned Tabitha, which the black-haired adult nodded his head.

"Our sensors picked up on the energy waves that rock gives off located right at the mountain. There's no mistake about it". Tabitha answered his leader, no trace of doubt in his voice. "I don't know how he did it back at Meteor Falls, but this time that Cozmo guy isn't getting away with the Meteorite. I swear to you Leader Maxie, I'll retrieve it for you". Blaise told Maxie as he retracted his arms from the pockets and gave a salute with the right hand. He was determined to help Maxie and Team Magma achieve their goal, and nothing was gonna stop him.

Maxie looked through the corner of his right eye towards the second Admin of Team Magma and gave a small nod to Blaise. "I'm counting on you to keep your word, Blaise. Make sure to be on your guard, I'm certain Archie and Team Aqua aren't gonna allow this chance to slip by them". The red-haired man told the Shadow of Fire with an icy cold voice. He knew his archenemy well enough to know that Archie and Team Aqua weren't ones to give up on their goals so easily. Maxie was certain they'll try to steal the Meteorite again and was more than ready to battle them for it.

"Understood". Blaise replied to Maxie, giving a short bow of his head. Maxie then turned his gaze forward as the helicopter drew closer to Mt. Chimney, but he then turned his attention over to Courtney, who was still staring out of the window with a far off look in her eyes. "...Courtney, are you still thinking about that boy?" The leader of Team Magma questioned the female Admin, catching Courtney's attention as she blinked and then turned to look at her leader. "Yes, Leader Maxie". The purple-haired female answered, growing a very small blush on her cheeks upon thinking of the boy that's captured her interest ever since the mission at Oldale Town.

Her encounter with Ash had proven to be a memorial one for Courtney, as she's been unable to forget about him, despite the time that's passed since then. Her fascination with the Rainbow Hero had died down a little, but had increased tenfold upon being told of the encounter Maxie and Blaise had with him at Meteor Falls. At hearing how Ash battled Team Aqua and even stood up to Maxie had truly captured the fascination of Courtney as she greatly desired to see him again. She hoped that soon their paths will cross again.

Tabitha slightly turned his head to look at the young girl and frowned at her. "I don't care if you're interested in that kid Courtney, just make sure to stay focus on the task at hand. You can think about him later". The hooded man told the purple-haired girl with a voice that left no room for argument. Courtney gazed at Tabitha silently with her usual poker face, before nodding to him and then looked out the window again. Blaise stepped up next to Tabitha and leaned in close to whisper to him. "I'm starting to think that Courtney's in love with that kid". The blond-haired man said to his fellow admin, causing Tabitha to let out an annoyed growl.

Courtney paid no attention to her fellow admins, she just continued to stare out the window with her mind thinking about the Rainbow Hero. The determined face Ash had when they battled was literally pictured inside of her mind and even if Courtney tried, she'd be unable to erase it. The purple haired girl grew a flushed expression as she gave a hopeful smile. 'I really hope we'll meet again soon'. Courtney thought to herself, strongly wishing to cross paths with the Rainbow Hero again soon.

(At Mt. Chimney)

Back with Professor Cozmo, his search is proving to be fruitless as he still hasn't found any new Meteorites. The 40-year-old man ceased walking and gazed down at the device in his hand in disappointment. "It would appear that no new Meteorites have come down to Earth yet. That is rather disappointing". Professor Cozmo said with a low voice, before growing a large smile as he knelt down on the ground. He grabbed hold of his backpack's straps and pulled them off, before placing the bag down in front of him.

He opened the bag, before placing the device and duffle bag inside. Professor Cozmo then reached inside, grabbing hold of something and then pulled out the Meteorite. "But I still have you with me. Don't worry, I'm certain a friend of yours will come down soon, so you have to be patient until then". Professor Cozmo said to the Meteorite, as if it had a soul of itself. He placed the Meteorite down on the ground, before putting his bag back on. Cozmo then took hold of the Meteorite in both hands, before standing up on his feet straight.

He smiled down at the rock in his hands, as if it were his child. "Well, it appears our expedition here has come to an end. It's time we return to Fallarbor Town". The 40-year-old man said softly, before turning around and began walking away. However, he stopped after taking 2 steps as the sounds of a helicopter's engine caught his attention. Cozmo looked up and saw Team Magma's helicopter coming in for a landing on a higher level of the mountain. "Uh oh, looks like I've got some company". Professor Cozmo said with wide eyes, having a bad feeling just from looking at that helicopter.

Team Magma's helicopter's landing pad came out and landed on the ground, kicking up a bit of dust. The helicopter's hatch dropped open, revealing Team Magma members with Maxie at the lead and his three admins right behind him. The leader of the organization had his arms folded behind his back and a deep frown displayed. "Team Magma, fan out and bring the Meteorite to me". The red-haired man commanded with a low voice, yet was heard by the members of Team Magma behind him anyway. "Yes sir!" Tabitha, Blaise and the nameless grunts cried out as they all took off running down the hatch.

Maxie calmly walked down the hatch with Courtney right behind him, the young girl walking with her arms up. The grunts all leaped off the edge of the cliff and landed around Professor Cozmo, surrounding him on all sides. The 40-year-old man clutched the Meteorite in his hands tighter at seeing the grunts, recognizing them as members of Team Magma that he saw from Meteor Falls.

"I recognize you people, you're Team Magma". Professor Cozmo said with a frown, shifting his eyes down at the Meteorite in his arms for a moment. "Don't tell me you've come here to try to steal the Meteorite again?" He questioned; having thought they didn't know he was still in possession of it.

"That is correct, Professor Cozmo". Maxie answered as he walked up to the edge of the cliff and stopped there, gazing down at Cozmo who turned to look up at him. Tabitha, Blaise and Courtney gathered around their leader from behind and gazed down at their target. "We've come here to take it from you. That Meteorite will play a big factor in our plans for the world. So, I strongly suggest handing it over without a fight". The leader of Team Magma told the 40-year-old man, which Cozmo just glared up at him. "Forget it, I'm not giving this to you!" Professor Cozmo exclaimed in defiance as he knew nothing good would come from them obtaining the Meteorite.

(Back with the gang)

With Ash, the gang and the disguised Team Rocket, they were all still seated as they waited for a bad sign that their suspicions were correct and that it was Team Magma they just saw. Just then, the tense silence was broken by the sounds of a helicopter's whirring. Everyone looked out the window to see a blue helicopter with spinning blades fly in out of nowhere and pass by the cable car, heading towards Mt. Chimney. "That's not a good sign". May said with a small gulp, while the flying vehicle disappeared from view.

"You don't think that was Team Aqua, do you?" Max questioned as he turned to look towards Ash with a worried expression. "I wouldn't put it pass them if they did show up. Knowing them, they'd probably refuse to allow Team Magma to get a lead on them". The Rainbow Hero answered the younger male, his arms still crossed as he hasn't move since they saw Team Magma's helicopter. "But what could both of Hoenn's criminal organizations want here at Mt. Chimney?" Sorrel questioned with a frown, pointing out the obvious question on what their aims here could be.

"I have no idea". Verity replied to her old friend with an uncertain tone since she has no idea what could be so valuable here for those two teams to come at around the same time. The Pokémon all stayed silent, yet they all harbored different expressions. Piplup and Jirachi both looked worried, while Pikachu and Lucario displayed serious faces as they were ready for a battle at any time. "I got a bad feeling about this. I think we should teleport to Mt. Chimney right now". Brock suggested with a deep frown, catching Ash's attention as he looked at the former Gym Leader.

"Let's wait for a few more minutes. I want to see if they'll try something first". The raven-haired boy told the gang, getting Verity to look at her boyfriend with a frown of confusion. Lucario looked at the Rainbow Hero through the corner of its right eye for a moment, and then turned to look towards the disguised Team Rocket members with a knowing glint in its eyes.

(Back at Mt. Chimney)

Meanwhile back with Professor Cozmo, he was still surrounded on all sides by Team Magma grunts. He let out a small growl as he shifted his eyes, looking for an opening to escape, yet found none. Maxie, Tabitha, Blaise and Courtney continued to stare down at the Fallarbor Town resident with the leader of Team Magma showing no emotion on his face. "You have no hopes of escaping. I may not know how you managed to keep the Meteorite from us at Meteor Falls, but we will be taking it this time. Either by peaceful means, or harsher means". Maxie told the professor as he brought up his right hand and adjusted his glasses.

Professor Cozmo glared up towards Maxie with gritted teeth. "I'll never give this to you! I need this Meteorite for my research!" The 40-year-old man snapped at the leader of Team Magma, causing Tabitha to smirk down at him. "That rock holds properties far beyond what you can ever imagine". The right-hand man of Maxie said with a smug voice, grabbing Cozmo's attention as he looked at him. "What are you talking about?" The professor questioned with a demanding voice, wanting to know the meaning of Tabitha's words.

Before Tabitha could answer, the sounds of a helicopter's whirring caught everyone's attention as they looked up to see the blue helicopter flying nearby for a landing. Tabitha and Blaise narrowed their eyes upon the sight, while Courtney looked at her leader with a naturel expression. "It looks like your suspicions were right, Leader Maxie. Team Aqua has come for the Meteorite as well". The young girl said without any emotion, not the least bit bothered by the appearance of their enemy. In response to her words, Maxie just narrowed his eyes. "...Prepare for battle". The red-haired man ordered, knowing that they're in for a battle.

Meanwhile with the blue helicopter, it had landed, and its passengers had already left the vehicle. It was Team Aqua alright, with its three admins and leader among them. The two admins from Meteor Falls; Shelly and Amber stood behind their leader with the final admin of Team Aqua besides them. It was a large, muscular man wearing a ripped-up Team Aqua uniform with a tattoo of their symbol on his chest. This man's name was Matt, the final Admin of Team Aqua. (Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby design)

Standing in front of the admins and grunts was an adult male wearing a pirate outfit with a golden anchor like a necklace around his neck, only a Key Stone was right at the center. This man's name is Archie, the leader of Team Aqua. (Alpha Sapphire and Omega Ruby design)

And unknown to them all was that the same mysterious girl from Meteor Falls were among the nameless grunts as well, displaying a small grin.

Archie stepped forward, giving out a loud laugh as he placed both hands on his hips. "Alright ya bunch of numskulls, let's get this party started and get that rock before those land lovers do! Ya with me?!" Archie questioned with a loud voice, looking over his left shoulder towards the members of his organization behind him. Immediately, all the grunts let out rallying cries in response while Shelly, Matt and Amber all grinned at their leader. "We're behind you all the way, bro!" Matt exclaimed strongly as he thrust up his right fist, receiving a pleased laugh from Team Aqua's leader.

Shelly looked past her right shoulder towards 2 nameless male grunts. "You two, secure the cable car and make sure nobody interferes". The black-haired woman told the two males, grabbing their attention as they looked at her. One was a skinny brown-haired male, while the other was a slightly muscular male with purple hair.

"Yes mam!" The two responded, before taking off in the direction that led to the summit station. "The rest of you with us! It's time we get our prize that we were deprived of!" Amber called out to the rest of the grunts, getting nods from all of them, including the mystery girl. Archie then took off, leading the charge towards the Meteorite with his team right behind him.

With the two Team Aqua members that broke off from the rest of their comrades, they quickly arrived at the summit station in a matter of minutes and immediately went towards the control room. Two male workers that were working there, gasped as they turned away from the controls to the unknown intruders. "What are you doing here?" The first worker questioned the grunts in surprise. "This area is off limits". The other worker told them, yet the grunts cared not for their words. The brown-haired grunt brought out and tossed a Poké Ball at them.

"Crawdaunt, Bubble Beam attack, go!" The nameless grunt commanded as the device burst open and released a white beam into the air. The beam took shape and cleared to reveal the Rogue Pokémon. "Crawdaunt! Crawdaunt!" Crawdaunt cried out, rearing its right pincer back and then thrust it out and released light blue bubbles right at the two workers. The light blue bubbles blasted the ground right below them, making the two workers gasp in surprise as they attempted to avoid getting hit. While the first grunt dealt with them, the second one went up to a lever at the controls and pulled it down.

(At the cable car)

All of a sudden, the cable car ceased lifting. Everyone gasped in surprise, while Ash, who had closed his eyes, opened them up with a serious frown displayed. "Just as I thought, they went for the cable car". The Rainbow Hero said as he unfolded his hands and stood up on his feet. Everyone turned to look at Ash, who just tightened his gloves and then adjusted his Z-Power Ring with Pikachu's cheeks sparking a bit of electricity. "It would make sense if they don't want anyone interfering with their plans". Sorrel remarked as he stood up, while Lucario got up on his feet.

The rest of the gang got up from their seats as well. "Guess that's the sign that we're going in, huh". Max commented, taking Jirachi into his hands and held the Wish Pokémon close. 'I'm ready for some action!' The Wish Pokémon called out energetically, raising his right fist into the air. "Whatever Team Magma and Aqua's aims here are, I bet it is to help with their end goal of using Groudon and Kyogre. We can't allow that to happen". Verity reminded the gang as Piplup jumped out of her arms and landed on the ground.

"We know what's at stake. But the question is what are we gonna do when we get up there. Last time, we were just facing Team Aqua and that was difficult enough. Facing both them and Team Magma at the same time hardly seems like a good idea". Brock said with a frown as he felt like they were severely outnumbered against the two organizations of Hoenn. "Maybe Brock's right and we're in over our heads. Maybe we should just go and call Officer Jenny and tell her about this". May suggested, getting Ash to tilt his head to look at her.

"By the time they arrive, it could all be over. Our best bet would be to call the authorities and stall time for them. The other side of the cable car station should have a phone or something". Ash told his traveling companions, looking over his right shoulder out the window again. "I agree with that plan of action. The only question is who should head to the cable car's summit station and make the call?" Sorrel questioned the Rainbow Hero, which Ash turned his gaze towards the disguised Team Rocket members across him.

"They can handle that". Ash answered his sworn brother, causing everyone except Sorrel and Lucario to blink at him. The Veilstone boy gave a nod at Ash's words, before turning towards Jessie, James and Meowth. "There's no need to keep those disguises on anymore, Team Rocket. Take them off". Sorrel told the three, causing Jessie, James and Meowth to comically gasp in surprise, while the others widened their eyes in surprise. "Team Rocket!" Verity, May, Max and Brock cried out as they, along with Jirachi and Piplup turned towards the three.

"B-b-b-but how did you know?" James questioned in disbelief that their disguises failed them. Instead of answering the former rich boy, Sorrel just pointed towards Lucario with his right hand's thumb. "Lucario can sense people's auras. You can disguise yourselves and change your looks, but not your auras". The Pokémon Professor in training answered with a small smirk with Lucario chuckling a little. The three Team Rocket members gritted their teeth as they grabbed hold of their disguises, before pulling them off dramatically and revealed themselves wearing their normal outfits.

"Why should we help you twerps out, anyway?" Meowth questioned with a frown and suspicious tone, catching Ash's attention as he looked at the Normal type. "Because you want payback on Team Magma and Aqua, right? For the last few times we encountered them and made you guys look like sorry excuse for clowns". The Rainbow Hero answered, resulting in Jessie, James and Meowth all growling in anger at the reminder of their past humiliating defeats.

"If you guys can get rid of their hold on the cable car and alert the authorities, they'll have a small amount of time before risking the chances of getting arrested. And after that, you can even join us in battling them. That way, you three will have struck a critical blow to them both". Brock explained to the three members of Team Rocket, causing them to lose their growls and grow mischievous grins on their faces. Brock's words really played them as this was the perfect chance for them to get the perfect payback on the two teams that treated them like jokes.

"Okay then, you all have yourselves a deal. We'll help if it means teaching those guys a lesson they'll never forget". Jessie told the gang, rearing up her right fist and held it up to express Jessie's anticipation. Ash gave a pleased smile as he nodded to the female adult, and then turned towards Max and Jirachi. "Jirachi, teleport us all to Mt. Chimney. We've wasted enough time up here". The raven-haired boy told the Wish Pokémon, which the Steel and Psychic type nodded to him. 'Got it'. Jirachi responded as he closed his eyes as the tags began to glow a multicoloured light.

Just then, Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Jessie, James, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario, Jirachi and Meowth all began to glow a multicoloured colour, before they all disappeared, leaving the cable car empty without any passengers.

(At Mt. Chimney)

At a single location at Mt. Chimeny in between where Team Magma and Aqua were and the summit station, 13 multicoloured lights appeared, before clearing to reveal Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Jessie, James, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario, Jirachi and Meowth standing on the rocky ground. James blinked owlishly as he looked around his surroundings, comparing the change of view from a few seconds ago. "So, this is what it's like to be teleported". The blue haired male remarked, having always wondered what it was like to be teleported through a Pokémon's move.

"Lucario, can you sense where Team Magma and Team Aqua are?" Sorrel questioned his partner Pokémon, turning a little to look at the Fighting and Steel type. Lucario looked at its trainer and gave a nod of its head. "Rrraaa". The Aura Pokémon answered, before facing forward and closed his eyes.

Lucario brought its right paw up to the spike on its chest, channeling his aura with the appendages raising up. After a few moments, the Aura Pokémon opened its blue glowing eyes as the glow died down and looked over its left shoulder.

"Rrraaa rrraaa!" Lucario called out as he pointed into that direction with its left paw, getting everyone to turn towards where the Aura Pokémon was pointing. "He said that's the direction where he's sensing multiple auras". Meowth translated for Lucario, grabbing the attention of Ash as he turned to look at Team Rocket. "Once you're done with the cable cars, feel free to join us. Your Dustox should be able to lead you guys". The Rainbow Hero told the three, getting Jessie, James and Meowth to look at him and nod. "Alright, we'll see you twerps later. Let's go!" Jessie exclaimed as she took off in the opposite direction with James and Meowth right on her tail.

May turned to look at her boyfriend with an uncertain look in her eyes. "Are you sure we can trust those guys?" The brunette questioned the raven-haired boy, not completely certain that they could trust the three thieves. "We CAN trust them on wanting payback. Anyway, come on! There's no time to spare!" Ash called out, before taking off running in the direction that Lucario pointed towards. "Pikachu!" Pikachu cried out as he held onto his best friend's right shoulder. "We're right behind ya, Ash!" Verity shouted out as she and the rest of the gang followed after the Rainbow Hero and Eletric Mouse in the direction that'll lead to a great conflict.

Meanwhile with Team Magma and Professor Cozmo, they had just been joined by Team Aqua. Maxie had a deep frown on his face as he stared down at Archie's grinning face that was directed at him. "...Hello, Archie..." The red-haired male greeted his nemesis with a deadly cold voice. Archie laughed out in response to Maxie's greeting. "Heya Maxie, we're not too late for the party now, are we? Because from the looks of it, we were on schedule". The leader of Team Aqua greeted Maxie back, giving a dark smirk that was mirrored by Shelly, Matt and Amber from behind him.

Team Aqua were standing on a small hill next to the Team Magma grunts that were surrounding Professor Cozmo, yet everyone's eyes were on the new arrivals. Blaise glared down at the sight of Team Magma's archenemy. "You lot weren't invited in the first place, so get lost!" The blond-haired male snapped at Team Aqua, getting Amber to glare up at him with a forced smirk. "Now, why would we do that? We're here to get back our property that was snuck away from us". The Admin of Team Aqua replied, before shifting his eyes over towards Professor Cozmo, who was staring at them with his teeth grit.

"Professor Cozmo, won't you be so kind to hand the Meteorite over to us?" Shelly "politely" asked the adult male, something that made Tabitha narrow his eyes down at her. "Sorry to disappoint you Commander Shelly, but we're the ones that are gonna get that rock". Maxie's right-hand man said with certainty in his voice, grabbing Shelly's attention as she gazed up at him with a dark grin. "Please... You really think we're scared of a bunch of idiots that lets a little girl hold the rank of Admin". Matt said with a mocking voice as he stared up towards Courtney.

The purple-haired female stared down at the muscular man with cold eyes at what he said. "This "little girl" could waste you away without the slightest bit of trouble, you juicehead". Courtney mocked with a small smug grin, making Matt growl at her for the insult. "Enough of this meaningless talk. We both know the only way to settle this matter, right Maxie?" Archie questioned the leader of Team Magma, which he narrowed his eyes as he knew exactly what his nemesis meant.

"Indeed, Archie. But you're gonna regret this". Maxie answered as he brought his right hand forward from behind, only now had a Poké Ball in hand. "Team Magma! Attack and destroy!" The leader of Team Magma called out strongly, getting his three admins and grunts to smirk as they all brought out Poké Balls themselves.

(Play Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire - Vs Aqua & Magma Leader (Highest Quality)

"Camerupt, seek and destroy!" Maxie called out, tossing the device over the edge of the cliff. The device burst open and released a white beam that struck the ground, kicking up a bit of dust. The beam cleared to reveal a powerful looking Camerupt with a strong glare. "Camerupt!" The Fire and Ground type cried out, releasing molten lava from the volcanos on its back. "Go Mightyena!" Tabitha cried out as he and the Team Magma grunts tossed Poké Balls out as well. The device all burst open as well, releasing white beams that cleared to reveal a horde of Mightyena gathered around Maxie's Camerupt with them all growling.

"Armaldo and Golbat, go!" Blaise exclaimed as he and the remaining grunts tossed out Poké Balls as well. The Poké Balls opened and fired white beams with one of them going towards the ground. The beams in the air all cleared to reveal several Golbats swarming together, while the one that struck the ground cleared to reveal a new Pokémon.

It is a bipedal, amphibious Pokémon that somewhat resembled a mantis shrimp. It is covered with thick, grayish-blue plates. There are accents of yellow, black, white, and red throughout its body. Its oblong eyes protrude from the sides of its head. A black pattern with two red, teardrop-shaped spots covered the center of its head and a yellow lower jaw. Three pairs of wing-like appendages extended from the sides of its long, thick neck. A plate of armor on its back has four short spikes and two triangular, yellow-rimmed wings extending from underneath. Its scaled chest and belly are rimmed with yellow lines as well, and there are two large yellow plates in the center of its chest. Its segmented arms extend from holes in these plates, each with a large, black claw. The legs are also segmented, with black knees. A pair of black fins tips its long tail. "Armaldo!" The new Pokémon named Armaldo cried out strongly from beside Camerupt on its left.

Courtney brought her right hand to behind herself for a moment, before bringing it out to reveal she now had a Poké Ball in hand. "Go..." The purple-haired girl began, moving her arm clockwise to in front of her face with a grin that had a bit of emotion in it. "...Ninetales". Courtney finished as she tossed the device over the edge of the cliff. The device landed on the ground unharmed on Camerupt's right side, before bursting open with a bluish white beam that quickly cleared to reveal the Fox Pokémon. "Ninetales!" The Fire type called out with a female voice, a sign of it being female.

"Walrein, I choose you!" Shelly cried out as she and half of the Team Aqua grunts all threw Poké Balls out. The devices all opened and fired white beams that struck several higher level hills nearby, before clearing to reveal a Walrein horde. "Walrein, wal!" All of them cried out with loud voices. "Gorebyss and Crawdaunt, take these chumps out!" Amber cried out as he and the rest of Team Aqua's grunts tossed their Poké Balls out. The devices burst open and released bluish white beams that struck next to the Welreins, before taking shape. Almost all of them cleared to reveal a horde of Crawdaunts, except for one.

It was a pink, serpentine Pokémon with a long, thin mouth. A long, purple-tipped fin extended from the top of its head, and there is a thin, pointed fin extending beneath its head. There are two purple shells on its chest, causing it to somewhat resemble a mermaid. The tail has a purple, circular fin at the tip, and two white bands near its base. This is the South Sea Pokémon, Gorebyss. "Gorebyss! /Crawdaunt!" Gorebyss and the Drawdaunts all cried out with the South Sea Pokémon floating above the ground.

"Show them who's boss around here, Azumarill!" Matt exclaimed, tossing a Poké Ball out with his right hand. The device released a bluish white beam that struck the ground and cleared to reveal an Azumarill. Unlike May's Azumarill that looked feminine, this one appeared more male as it had a tooth displayed smirk on its face. "Azumarill!" The Water and Fairy type exclaimed with its teeth now grit, yet was still smirking.

Archie laughed out as he brought up an enlarged Poké Ball with his right hand. "Wash these fools away, Sharpedo!" The leader of Team Aqua exclaimed, before gripping the device hard and threw it into the air. It spun around in mid-air, before suddenly stopping and released a bluish white beam that came down to a high level cliff. It cleared to reveal a Sharpedo that looked very strong and had a dark glare. "Sharpedo!" The Water and Dark type roared out, opening its mouth wide open to reveal the very sharp fangs it had.

Tabitha and Blaise leaped down from the cliff and landed next to their grunts, both males having smirks on their faces. Courtney, on the other hand, just walked up next to Maxie with the both of them staring down as the battle between the two teams began. Maxie had his hands folded behind his back again, while Courtney wad holding her hands down to the side. However, the purple-haired girl then took notice of something through the corner of her left eye. "Hmm?" Courtney hummed, turning her head left to see Professor Cozmo running off, having taken the chance to escape when the two organizations' attention were on each other.

"Leader Maxie, the professor is escaping with the Meteorite". The young girl informed the leader of Team Magma, catching his attention as he looked away from the face-off and saw Professor Cozmo, right before he disappeared from view. Maxie frowned a little, before looking towards Courtney through the corner of his left eye. "Courtney, take A squad and go after him. Do not let him leave with the Meteorite". Team Magma's leader told the girl, receiving a nod from Courtney. "Understood". The purple-haired girl replied to her leader, before turning to look down towards her Ninetales.

"Ninetales and A squad, with me! We're going after the Meteorite!" Courtney called out, before turning around and walked off out of view. "Ninetales!" Courtney's Ninetales cried, before taking off and ran past Camerupt and Armaldo, followed by a few grunts, Mightyena and Golbat. Archie narrowed his eyes at seeing this, before turning to look at Matt over the shoulder.

"Matt! You take some of our grunts and go after that old guy! Make sure that little girl doesn't get our prize!" The leader of Team Aqua commanded the admin, receiving a nod from the muscular man. "Leave it to me!" Matt replied with a grin, before he, a few Team Aqua grunts, Azumarill, some Crawdaunts and Walreins broke off and ran off in the same direction that Professor Cozmo went. Among them was the same mystery girl with a Crawdaunt.

Archie turned to look forward and gave a dark grin as he chuckled. Maxie jumped off the cliff, fell and landed in front of Tabitha and Blaise. He narrowed his eyes towards Archie's grinning face with cold eyes. "Show no mercy to them". The leader of Team Magma told the two admins, not turning to look at either of them as his main focus was on Archie. "Yes sir!" Tabitha and Blaise exclaimed, intending to do just as their leader told them. Maxie brought out his right hand, and then held it out forward. "Camerupt, use Fire Blast!" The man commanded, starting this battle off himself.

"Camerupt!" The Eruption Pokémon roared out, and then fired a fireball from its mouth, which formed into a 大 shape as it headed towards Sharpedo. "Haha, blow that away with Hydro Pump!" Archie commanded, rearing up his right fist. "Sharpedo!" The Water and Dark type cried out, blasting a powerful jet of water from its mouth. Both Fire Blast and Hydro Pump collided with each other, creating an explosion in a matter of seconds. As if the explosion was the signal to begin, the Pokémon of Team Magma and Team Aqua cried out as they charged forward towards each other with their trainers issuing commands.

The battle between the two teams has begun, with the prize being the Meteorite that'll play a big role in their goals.

(Music end/ Meanwhile at the summit station)

At the cable car's summit station, it has come under the control of the two Team Aqua grunts that had been dispatched to secure it. Inside of the control room, the two workers were both tied up, back-to-back with each other. They were staring up at their smirking captives, only now there were two Crawdaunts standing in front of them. Not much time has passed since they shut down the cable car, but so far nothing has happened yet. However, that was about to change.

The door to the control room suddenly exploded and fell from the hinges, catching everyone's attention as they looked over, only to see black smoke covering the intruders from view. "Gothita, Shock Wave!/ Cacnea, Needle Arm!" Two familiar voices commanded, before a Gothita and Cacnea leaped out of the smoke. "Gothita!/ Cac-cacnea!" The two cried out, before Gothita's body became surrounded in light blue electricity and released a beam of light blue electricity, while Cacnea's right arm began to glow white brightly.

The light blue electricity struck one of the Crawdaunts' body, while Cacnear right hooked the other Rouge Pokémon in the face, resulting in the two crying out. The Team Aqua grunts gasped in shock, but before they could say anything, a third voice cried out. "Now it's Meowth's turn!" Meowth cried out as he leaped out of the smoke, towards the nameless males. "Have a taste of my Night Slash!" The Normal type added as his right claw began to glow a light purple, before swiping it forward.

Kablam!

Meowth landed a powerful strike on the two grunts, resulting in them crying out in pain as they were shot off their feet. The two Crawdaunts fell to the ground, both groaning with swirls in their eyes, while their trainers slammed into the ground and slide down to the ground, unconscious. The two workers had wide eyes at their unexpected rescue as Meowth, Gothita and Cacnea fell to the ground and landed on their feet. All three of them looking smug as Night Slash and Needle Arm powered down. Laughter came from the entrance as the smoke cleared to reveal Jessie and James standing beside one another.

The female had her arms crossed, while the male's hands were on his hips. "Oh, I feel real good about my life right now". James remarked with a smug grin of his own, one that Jessie matched perfectly. "Funny, because that's exactly how I feel as well". The female Pokémon Coordinator stated, looking down at Meowth and gave him a nod. The Normal type returned the nod as he walked over to the two workers, catching their attention as they looked at Meowth. "Hold still, okay? I don't wanna accidently scratch ya". The Scratch Cat Pokémon told the two, bringing his right paw up as the claws emerged.

"Hiyah!" Meowth exclaimed, rearing his claw up and then swiped it down, cutting the ropes tied around the two workers, freeing them. The two males gasped in relief as they lifted their hands up, before looking towards Team Rocket. "Thank you". One of the workers, the one with the glasses thanked the team of criminals, which Jessie just waved off their thanks. "If ya wanna thank us, call the police and tell them that Team Magma and Aqua are up here". The female adult told the two workers, getting understanding nods from them.

"Yes, of course!" The second worker exclaimed, before standing up on his feet and ran off to search for a phone. Meowth and Gothita walked up towards Jessie, while Cacnea leaped towards James to give him a loving hug, but fortunately for the former rich boy, he managed to catch the Grass type in his hands and hold him a good distance away. "I'd say dat we're done here. Let's head on ahead to catch up with the twerps". Meowth said to his teammates, wanting to waste no time and get to the main event taking place.

James looked from Cacnea towards Meowth and nodded his head in agreement. "He's right. If we don't hurry, we're gonna miss the whole thing". The blue haired male stated, wanting to get more payback on Team Aqua, and some on Team Magma. "Alright, I hear you two. Let's move!" Jessie called out, thrusting her right hand into the air, something that James, Meowth, Cacnea and Gothita copied as they thrust their right hands into the air. "Yeah!/ Cacnea!/ Gothita!" James, Meowth, Cacnea and Gothita all let out rallying cries, before they and Jessie turned around and ran out the entrance. Cacnea jumping out of James' hands as they did so.

"Hey, wait!" The worker with the glasses called out to Team Rocket, yet was ignored as they disappeared from view. They had no time to waste as their goal to get payback was too important to wait on.

(Meanwhile with the battle between Team Magma and Aqua/ Replay Pokémon Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire - Vs Aqua & Magma Leader (Highest Quality)

Mt. Chimney had become a battlefield for the two organizations as their Pokémon battled with neither side gaining the upper hand. The battle had spread out even. A Mightyena leaped and slammed an Iron Tail attack on a Walrein's head, causing massive damager, while a single Crawdaunt fired Bubble Beam on an air born Golbat, which exploded on impact. As the grunts and their Pokémon battle each other, the top members of each organization and their Pokémon were facing each other, but have gotten separated during the battle.

Tabitha and his Mightyena stood 10 feet away from Shelly and her Walrein. The female admin of Team Aqua had a sly smile, while the right-hand man of Maxie had a deep frown on his face. Tabitha was the one who made the first move as he pointed out with his right hand's index finger. "Mightyena, Iron Tail go!" The admin of Team Magma commanded the Bite Pokémon. Mightyena growled as its tail began glowing bright white, and then roared out as it charged towards Walrein.

"Walrein, stop it with Water Gun!" Shelly commanded, pointing her right hand's index finger out forward. "Wal...rein!" The Water and Ice cried howl out, opening its mouth wide and unleashed a spiral of water towards Mightyena. However, the Dark type ran to the left, dodging the Water Gun, which died out. Walrein released another spiral of water, yet Mightyena just ran to the right, dodging it again and drew closer. Once it was close enough, the Bite Pokémon cried out as it leaped and spun around, slamming its glowing tail onto Walrein's left side of its face.

The Ice Break Pokémon cried out in pain from the super effective hit, before Mightyena leaped back and landed on its feet, Iron Tail powering down. "Now, Shadow Ball!" Tabitha commanded with a confident smirk on his face. "Rrrrraaaaa!" The Dark type cried out, a black ball of energy forming in Mightyena's mouth. It closed its mouth over the black ball, then released it at Walrein from close range, landing a direct hit and causing a small explosion. The smoke created quickly cleared to reveal the Ice Break Pokémon looking damaged, yet still looked strong as it glared down at Mightyena.

Tabitha had a pleased smirk as he chuckled at having the advantage of the battle, while Shelly still had a sly smile present. "Let's see if you're still smirking after this". The black-haired woman said as she brought up her right hand, now holding another Poké Ball. "Vibrava, Swift attack!" Shelly commanded, rearing her right hand back and then swiped it out, tossing the device into the air. The Poké Ball soared through the air, before bursting open and released a bluish white beam, which quickly took shape and cleared to reveal a new Pokémon.

It's a dragonfly-like Pokémon. It had a small head with two yellow antennae and green bulging eyes with black oval-shaped pupils. Its mouth had two large white teeth protruding from each side. It has a skinny yellow body, four skinny black legs with slender feet, and four green, rhombus-shaped wings with black edges. There are similarly-colored rhombus shapes at the end of its tail. Vibrava cried out with narrowed eyes, before flapping its wings and fired multiple white stars from its mouth down at Mightyena, striking the Dark type on its head, getting the Bite Pokémon to growl in pain with its eyes shut.

"What!?" Tabitha gasped out in surprise, while Shelly just smirked at him. "Walrein, Double-Edge and Vibrava, Steel Wing". The female admin of Team Aqua commanded calmly, crossing her arms as she spoke. "Walrein!" The Ice Break Pokémon exclaimed, its body glowing gold as it charged forward and rammed into Mightyena, blasting it off of its feet and sent it flying. It wasn't over yet as Vibrava came flying in with its wings glowing bright white and rammed its right wing into Mightyena's stomach, causing the Dark type to gasp in pain. The Bite Pokémon was sent back flipping out of control, before crashing down on the ground on its stomach in front of Tabitha.

Despite the three attacks it took, Mightyena got back on its feet. The Bite Pokémon winced for a moment, before roaring out in anger at Walrein and Vibrava. "Typical of you Team Aqua punks to gang up two on one like that". Tabitha said with a deep frown, only to blink upon noticing something. The battling Team Aqua grunts all tossed out Poké Balls, which opened and released white beams that cleared to reveal a horde of Tentacruel. "Tentacruel!" All of the Water and Poison types cried out, before firing spirals of water. Half of them struck the Mightyena, and the other half landed direct hits on the Golbats.

"So, that's how it is, huh? Two can play at that game". Tabitha said with narrowed eyes, before holding up a Poké Ball. "Team Magma, release the Houndoom!" The admin of Team Magma called out to the Team Magma grunts. They all nodded to their captain as they all brought out Poké Balls themselves. "Go, Houndoom!" The grunts of Team Magma exclaimed, throwing the devices out. The Poké Balls all opened and released beams that struck the ground, quickly taking shape and cleared to reveal a horde of Houndoom.

All of the Dark Pokémon growled out, before unleashing streams of fire at the horde of Tentacruel, getting clean hits and causing them to cry out. Tabitha smirked at the sight, before facing forward and held the Poké Ball out. "Torkoal, go!" The admin of Team Magma cried out, before tossing the device out. The Poké Ball immediately burst open and released a bluish white beam that struck the ground, kicking up a bit of dust, before clearing to reveal Tabitha's Pokémon.

It's a tortoise-like, quadrupedal Pokémon. It has a large, black, rock-like shell with holes that glow with a red warmth. Its skin is reddish-brown with gray-black bands on its legs and neck. It has a long neck and its eyes seem permanently closed. "Torkoal!" The Coal Pokémon exclaimed with a deep, male voice as it glared towards Walrein and Vibrava. "Heat Wave, go!" Tabitha commanded, holding his right arm up with the left hand out. "Torkoal!" The Fire type cried out, opening its mouth and created a ball of orange fire in its mouth. It then released a wind of flames at Walrein and Vibrava.

Heat Wave struck both of Shelly's Pokémon, resulting in Walrein and Vibrava groaning in pain with their eyes closed. "Eat Pokémon, Team Aqua! Mightyena, Hyper Beam!" The right-hand man of Maxie cried out, swiping his right hand out to the side. The Bite Pokémon let out a powerful cry as it unleashed an orange Hyper Beam at Walrein and Vibrava, striking the ground in between them, causing an explosion that the two were caught up in. Shelly gritted her teeth at seeing this, while Tabitha gave a smug smirk at her.

Meanwhile with Blaise and Amber, unlike their fellow admins, they were battling by running across the rocky terrain across one another. Armaldo was running besides Blaise, while Gorebyss floated behind Amber. The Team Aqua admin was chuckling darkly at Blaise, who just looked at him with narrowed eyes. The Team Magma then reared his left hand in, and then swiped it out towards the Team Aqua member. "Armaldo, use Rock Blast!" The blond-haired male commanded, having had enough of just running.

"Armaldo!" The Rock and Bug type cried out, holding out its claws as three light blue rings appeared and surrounded its body. The rings then formed into glowing white rocks that circled around its body. Armaldo then pulled up its claws and the rocks come together in between them. It then threw the rocks towards Gorebyss and Amber. "Ha! Safeguard!" Amber laughed out, raising his right hand and held it out. "Gorebyss!" The South Sea Pokémon cried out, its body beginning to glow white and it formed a silver force field around its body.

Gorebyss then floated in front of Amber, right before the rock struck the silver force field, yet were reduced to rubble after a few seconds. Blaise grunted, while Amber laughed as Gorebyss' silver force field disappeared. "Looks like you're all talk. I'll do us both a favor and end this quickly". The bald-headed man said as he brought up his left hand, an enlarged Poké Ball in hand. "Go, Shedinja!" Amber cried, right before the device burst open and unleashed a bluish white beam that went into the air. It cleared to reveal a Shedinja, glaring down at Blaise and his Armaldo.

"Mud-Slap!" Amber commanded with a dark smirk. The Shedinja cried out as it fired a stream of mud from its halo at Blaise and Armaldo, yet the two leaped away, dodging Mud-Slap as it struck the ground where they were. Blaise landed in a crouch, while Armadlo on its feet. The blond-haired male raised his head to glare towards Amber as he stopped running with Gorebyss floating beside the admin of Team Aqua. "I guess it's too much to ask for a one-on-one battle with someone like you. Okay then, let's mix it up". Blaise said, reaching into his pants left pocket with the left hand.

He then pulled his hand out, revealing himself to be holding an enlarged Poké Ball. "Slugma, go!" The admin shouted out as he reared his hand back, and then swiped it out and tossed the device out. The Poké Ball spun through the air, before suddenly stopping and opened with a white beam coming out and struck the ground. It took shape and ceased glowing to reveal a Slugma. "Slugma". The Fire type said loudly, yet the sight of it made Amber smirk bigger than before. "You really expect that thing to actually be a threat to my Pokémon?" The bald-headed man questioned with amusement leaking out of his voice.

"Don't get cocky. I know of your Shedinja's ability of Wonder Guard and only super effective attacks can work on it". Blaise told the admin of Team Aqua, standing up on his feet fully. "Oh, looks like someone's been doing his homework". Amber said in a mocking voice, resulting in Blaise growling at him. "You'll be the one that needs to go back to school after I'm through with you! Slugma, Smog attack!" The blond-haired male commanded, holding his right hand out forward. "Slugma". The Fire type said as it opened its mouth and breathed out a thick, gray smoke.

The smoke grew larger and covered Blaise, Armaldo and Slugma from view. Amber frowned at seeing this, while Gorebyss and Shedinja widened their eyes. "Just what I expect from you Team Magma cowards, hiding from us. Well, let me tell ya something, it's not gonna work!" Amber exclaimed, just as a silhouette became visible in the gray smoke. "There you are! Shedinja, Hyper Beam! And Gorebyss, Hydro Pump!" The admin of Team Aqua commanded, punching the air with his right hand.

"Shed...inja!" The Bug and Ghost type cried out, an orange-yellow charges in front of Shedinja. Then, the beam is fired at the silhouette. "Gorebyss!" The South Sea Pokémon exclaimed, forming an orb of water in front of its head. It then fired a powerful jet of water from the orb. Both Hyper Beam and Hydro Pump drew close to one another as were closing in on the silhouette. The two attacks made contact, blowing the smoke away and revealing that they hit nothing, and the silhouette was a trick. Hyper Beam and Hydro Pump continued on and struck a nearby small mountain, creating a powerful explosion.

"That was nothing there!?" Amber proclaimed in shock that he fell for such a trick. "Behind ya, sucker!" A familiar voice cried out, catching Amber by surprise as he looked over his left shoulder to see Blaise, Armaldo and Slugma behind him and his Pokémon. The admin of Team Magma smirked in a smug manner, before throwing his right hand out. "Almaldo, Crush Claw! And Slugma, Flamethrower!" The blond-haired man ordered, confidence leaking out of his voice. Both Armaldo and Slugma cried out as the Plate Pokémon charged with its claws glow red, while the Lava Pokémon released a red-orange stream of fire from its mouth.

Amber gritted his teeth, before shooting around and swiped the left hand out. "Gorebyess, use Confusion on Flamethrower to direct it on Armaldo!" The bald-headed man ordered, thinking and acting fast. Gorebyss spun around and cried out as its eyes began glowing blue. Flamethrower gained a blue outline, before suddenly changing courses and struck Armaldo's back, landing a direct hit and getting the Plate Pokémon to cry out in pain.

However, Armaldo stayed strong and continued charging towards Gorebyss, before smashing its glowing red claws on the Water type, crashing Gorebyss down on the ground. Blaise and Amber glared at one another and growled. Armaldo leaped back and landed next to Slugma, the two in front of their trainer. Shedinja turned around to face them, while Gorebyss floated up from the ground and gave a glare at Armaldo. The battle between them was far from over and neither side was willing to give up.

Finally, the battle between the two leaders of the organizations continued on. Right now, Maxie's Camerupt was standing completely still, while Archie's Sharpedo was circling around the Fire and Ground type at fast speeds. Archie was smirking at the situation, while Maxie still displayed his usual emotionless face. "Camerupt, use Flash Cannon". The leader of Team Magma calmy commanded, keeping both of his hands folded behind himself. "Camerupt!" Camerupt cried out, opening its mouth as a silver ball appears in front of Camerupt's mouth.

The Fire and Ground type then fired a silver beam of energy from the ball forward. Its timing was near perfect as Sharpedo was circling around up front, but unfortunately just missed the Brutal Pokémon. Flash Cannon struck the ground and created an explosion, the sight made Archie burst out laughing. "Ha ha ha! Too slow, Maxie! Here's a real attack, Crunch go!" Team Aqua's leader commanded, punching the air with his left fist. "Pedo!" The Water and Dark type exclaimed, suddenly shooting out towards Camerupt.

Sharpedo then opened its mouth with the teeth glowing white, before biting down around Camerupt's front volcano on its back, resulting in the Eruption Pokémon flinching. Maxie's right eyebrow twitched, while Archie chuckled darkly. "Camerupt, use Yawn". Maxie commanded with a controlled voice, something that made Archie widen his eyes in surprise. Camerupt shot open its eyes, and then cried out, opening its mouth wide with a blue bubble coming out. "Sharpedo, get out of there!" The leader of Team Aqua called out with an alarmed voice, while the bubble floated up towards Sharpedo.

The Brutal Pokémon quickly released its grip and jumped away, right before the bubble popped. "Now, Earth Power". Maxie suddenly commanded, before giving a small smirk. "Camerupt!" The Fire and Ground type proclaimed as its body briefly flashing with yellow energy, before slamming its front left leg down hard on the ground, creating glowing gold cracks that travel forward. Right when Sharpedo came up in front of Archie, the gold cracks went underneath it, before orange energy erupted and struck the Brutal Pokémon underneath.

Sharpedo cried out as Earth Power sent it flying, before spinning around in midair and floated down beside Archie on his right. The golden cracks on the ground created from Earth Power all disappeared with Camerupt still having a deep glare on its face. Maxie stared towards Achie and saw him still smirking darkly. "Not bad, Maxie. This thing just got started, and I'm already enjoying myself! We should do this more often". Archie said to Maxie, sounding like he was absolutely exhilarated right now. "Sorry, but that's something I can't promise you". The leader of Team Magma replied to his nemesis, not sounding sorry in the least bit.

Archie just chuckled at Maxie's response. "Yeah, you're probably right. Well then, let's just enjoy this right now. How about we quit playing around and get straight to the fun part?" Archie questioned, taking hold of the gold anchor around his neck with the right hand and slightly held it up, the Key Stone letting out a small sparkle. Maxie narrowed his eyes, knowing full well what the leader of Team Aqua meant by that. Maxie's left eye shifted towards the left end of his glasses, where his Key Stone was. The red-haired man then turned to look back at Maxie.

"I thought you were one to take things slowly, savoring and enjoying every moment. It's not like you to rush things". Maxie said to the leader of Team Aqua, causing Archie to blink and lose his smirk. He did regrow it in an instant. "Ha, you're right about that. Okay then, let's take our time and have some fun". Archie remarked, lifting up his left hand with an enlarged Poké Ball in hand. "Come back for now, Sharpedo". The adult man said as the device fired a red beam at Sharpedo and recalled the Brutal Pokémon.

Archie then brought the left hand down and lifted up the right one with another enlarged Poké Ball in hand. "Go have some fun, Huntail". Achie said with a slightly loud voice as the device in his hand open and released a bluish white beam. It took shape and cleared to reveal a light-blue, aquatic Pokémon with a serpentine body. Orange, semi-circular fins run the length of its spine, and there are two additional fins on the underside of its lower jaw. A large, fan-like fin projects from the top of its head. White spots that are surrounded by orange rings, resembling its eyes, dot its body. It had a fish-shaped tail, which features glowing eye-spots, a single dorsal fin, and single pectoral fin. This is the Deep Sea Pokémon, Huntail.

"Huntail!" The Water type growled out, something that made Maxie narrow his eyes. He held out his right hand with an enlarged Poké Ball, and wordlessly recalled Camerupt to the device. Once the Fire and Ground type was back inside the device, Maxie refolded the hand behind his back and then held out the left hand, holding another enlarged Poké Ball. "Fight, Crobat!" The leader of Team Magma exclaimed, before the device in his hand and fired a white beam into the air. The beam took shape, before clearing to reveal a Crobat flapping its wings to fly.

The Poison and Flying type crowed, before flying down towards Huntail. "Dark Pulse, go". Maxie commanded, now holding his right hand out. "Cro!" Crobat cried out, a ball of purple rings of energy appearing in front of its mouth. It then fired a beam of purple rings of energy down towards Huntail, which the Water type glanced up towards the approaching attack. "Ohhh, wanna play like that, huh? Okay then, game on! Huntail, Ice Beam!" Archie commanded, punching the air with his right fist.

"Huntail!" The Deep Sea Pokémon exclaimed as it opened its mouth, forming a ball of light blue energy in front of it. It then fired light blue beams of energy from the ball at the beam of purple rings of energy. The two attacks clashed against one another, struggling to overpower each other until eventually they exploded. Archie laughed out loudly, while Maxie showed no emotion whatsoever. The battle of Team Magma and Aqua continued on.

(Music end/ Meanwhile with Ash and the others)

Right now, Ash, Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Lucario and Jirachi were all going up a hill towards the higher levels of Mt. Chimney. The humans, Lucario and Piplup were running on their two feet, Pikachu on all four and running like that, while Jirachi was flying through the air next to Max. Ash grunted with his teeth gritted against one another as he led the group. "We have to get up there as soon as possible. If we don't hurry, we'll be too late!" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed, getting Max to look at him with a confused frown.

"Then, why don't we just teleport up there?" The Petalburg questioned, wondering why they're running when they could just use Jirachi's Teleport to get up there. Instead of Ash answering, it was Sorrel as he looked down at the young boy. "Because that would give away our element of surprise". The Veilstone boy told the young boy, getting Max to grumble a bit. Just then, the gang spotted a familiar figure running down the hill in a panicking manner. It was Professor Cozmo, clutching the Meteorite with both of his hands against his chest.

Everyone gasped in surprise to see the professor again as they stopped running, but the same couldn't be said about Cozmo as he continued without any sign of stopping. "Professor Cozmo!?" Ash gasped in surprise, right before the 40-year-old man ran into him, resulting in the two males falling over and kicking up dust that covered them from view. Everyone else shut their eyes to keep dust from getting in them. Eventually, the dust cleared, and the gang opened their eyes and gazed towards Ash, where they saw him sitting up on the ground with Cozmo leaning over his right knee.

"That hurt". Ash groaned out with a wince, getting a small nervous smile from the older male. "Yeah, it did. Sorry about that". Professor Cozmo apologized to the young man, before getting up on his knees and smiled widely at seeing Ash. "Ahh, Ash! Am I glad to see you again!" The 40-year-old man said with a delighted voice, getting Ash to blink as he and everyone else looked at him. "It's nice to see you again too, Professor Cozmo. But what were you running from?" Verity questioned the adult man, grabbing Cozmo's attention as he looked at her.

Before the professor could answer the Twinleaf girl, a voice called out of nowhere. "There he is!" A masculine voice exclaimed, catching everyone's attention as they looked up the hill, where they saw the Team Aqua squad led by Matt, accompanied by their Walreins, Crawdaunts and Matt's Azumarill. "Team Aqua!" May and Max cried out with narrowed eyes at the sight of them, while Ash and Cozmo got up on their feet quickly. "So, it was them after all". Brock commented with a frown upon seeing that they weren't over thinking things.

Matt gave a smirk as he crossed both arms, gazing down towards the Meteorite in Cozmo's hands. "Well, look at that. We caught up to the Meteorite before those Team Magma chumps, and now it's all ours". The admin of Team Aqua said with a dark voice, while the other grunts all chuckled. The mystery girl, however, was staring down towards Ash with calculating eyes that had a glint of fascination in them. 'It's that boy again. But what is he doing here? Is it just a coincidence, or did he come here because he knew about what was happening?' The unknown young girl questioned inside of her mind, wondering if Ash meant to be here or it was just by chance.

Matt then held his right arm out towards Comzo in a "gimme" way. "Hand over the Meteorite, and I'll consider letting you go without a scratch". The muscular man said to the 40-year-old man, who tightened his grip on the Meteorite in response. Verity took a step forward and glared at Matt. "If you think we're just gonna stand aside and let you steal from someone, you've got another thing coming!" Verity exclaimed with a defiant voice, rearing up her right fist. "Piplup pip!" Piplup cried out in agreement, running up beside Verity and glared towards Team Aqua.

Matt gave an uninterested glance at the gang and their Pokémon, before waving his left hand over his shoulder. "Get lost ya bunch of stupid brats. This is adult business that doesn't involve kids like you". Matt dismissed the gang, something that made Sorrel and Lucario twitch their eyes in anger. A female Team Aqua grunt stepped close to Matt and leaned in close to whisper to him. "Commander, those kids are actually the ones that interfered with our mission at Meteor Falls". The nameless female told her commanded, causing Matt to widen his eyes in surprise as he turned to look at the grunt.

"Are you saying...these kids are the ones that beat Shelly and Amber?" Matt questioned with shock leaking out of his voice. The female nodded her head in conferment as Matt turned to look down at the gang and their Pokémon. A few seconds passed, before he suddenly burst out laughing and threw his head back. "Ahahaha! This is hilarious! Those two lost to little pipsqueaks like these kids? I guess those two are just all talk after all!" Matt laughed out, as if he heard the world's greatest joke.

The gang all grew annoyed at how they were dismissed like that, but the ones that were most annoyed were Sorrel and Lucario. The Veilstone boy gave a small growl, before stepping forward past Ash and gazed up towards the laughing Matt with cold eyes. "You talk big, but can you back up all the boasting? I highly doubt it". Sorrel said loud enough for the admin of Team Aqua to hear him.

Sorrel's words caused Matt to cease laughing and gaze down towards him with a dark look. "What was that?" The muscular man questioned the young male with a hint of annoyance leaking out of his voice. "Those that boast like you are the kind of people that are all bark and have no bite. I may not know much about you Team Aqua, but I get the feeling that you're not very reliable to your leader if all you do is blow out hot air". Sorrel said with a growing smirk, while Matt almost instantly grew an enraged expression down at him.

"That's it! You're dead kid!" The admin of Team Aqua shouted out with pure anger, swiping his left hand out and pointed towards Sorrel with the index finger. "Azumarill, shut that brat up with Ice Punch!" Matt commanded his Aqua Mouse Pokémon, which Azumarill stepped up next to him.

"Azumarill!" The Water and Fairy type growled out through gritted teeth, and then leaped into the air. Its right arm then began to glow light blue and a stream of energy of the same color spinning around it. "Azu...marill!" Azumarill added, diving down towards Sorrel and Lucario with the intention to strike them with Ice Punch. The two partners looked up towards the diving down form of Azumarill, before Sorrel reared his right hand on. "Oh yeah? Try this on for size! Lucario, Meteor Mash!" The Veilstone boy commanded, swiping his hand out to the side leaving a trail of light as he moved his hand.

"Rrrrraaaaa!" The Aura Pokémon cried out, before its body became covered in a powerful blue coloured aura. He then reared his arms back, before the aura coat expanded until its body became covered in a blue aura. The Fighting and Steel type thrust his paws upwards towards Azumarill, then leaping up towards it. Lucario and Azumarill quickly clashed against one another and struggled for a moment, before the Fighting and Steel type broke through and rammed into the Aqua Mouse Pokémon. "Azumarill!" The Water and Fairy type cried out in pain, before getting blasted into the air from the powerful force of Lucario's Meteor Mash attack.

Lucario lost its blue aura, before falling to the ground and landed safely on its toes 5 feet in front of Sorrel. Meanwhile with Azumarill, it came crashing down in front of Matt, the Team Aqua grunts and their Pokémon, kicking up a bit of dust. Matt, the grunts and their Pokémon all looked shocked at what they just witnessed, while the mystery girl gave a small, impressed grin. "No way!" The admin of Team Aqua exclaimed in disbelief as his Azumarill struggled to get back on its feet, wincing from the powerful attack it just took.

"Like I said before, all bark and no bite". Sorrel said with a smug grin, grabbing Matt's attention as he glared down at the Veilstone with pure hate. "Grrrrr!" The admin of Team Aqua growled out like an ox, before pointing down towards Sorrel with a shaking hand. "TEACH THIS STUPID BRAT A LESSON!" He shouted out in an enraged voice, as if he's lost all sense of reasoning.

All the Team Aqua members immediately obeyed as they glanced down towards Sorrel and his Lucario, while the mystery girl stared at Matt with a disappointed look. 'How pitiful. He holds the rank of Admin, yet he's so easy to give into emotion like that. I honestly expected better'. The unknown female thought to herself, before giving a sigh.

Sorrel and Lucario didn't look threatened, in fact they were both smirking at the situation. Lucario gave a small growl as he raised his paws, while Sorrel looked over his left shoulder towards the others and Professor Cozmo. "I got his attention on us, now's your chance to get going. Take Professor Cozmo and get out of here, Lucario and I will keep these guys busy". The Pokémon Professor in training told his traveling companions, immediately getting Max and Jirachi to grow concerned expressions. "But Sorrel, it's like 20 against 2". The Petalburg boy said to the older male, pointing out the obvious difference in numbers.

Sorrel turned to look at Max and gave a reassuring smile at the boy. "Don't worry, we've got this. Not to mention that unlike them, Lucario and I have a secret weapon". Sorrel told the youngest Maple sibling as he brought up his right arm and held it up. "And he won't be alone". Brock stated as he stepped forward beside Sorrel on his right, getting the Veilstone boy to turn towards him. Sorrel started at the older male silently for a few seconds, before giving a nod and turned to look at Ash over his shoulder again.

"We'll catch up with you later, for now just get Professor Cozmo and the Meteorite as far away from here". Sorrel told his sworn brother, before facing forward without waiting for a response. Ash had his eyes narrowed as he stared at the backs of Sorrel and Lucario, and then gave a nod of the head. "Okay guys, it's up to you". The Rainbow Hero told Sorrel and Brock, causing May to widen her eyes in surprise as she looked at the raven-haired boy.

"Ash!? Are you serious about leaving Sorrel and Brock here to fight these guys on their own?" The brunette questioned the Rainbow Hero with an uncertain voice as she preferred staying with their friends to help them.

"Whoever said they were gonna be alone?" Verity questioned her fellow Pokémon Coordinator, causing May to blink in surprise at her words. Both Sorrel and Brock grinned at Verity's words as they knew exactly what she meant. "She's right about that. We're not alone". The former Gym Leader said as he held up both hands, holding different devices in them both. He had an Ultra and Dusk Ball in the right hand, and Poké Ball with the left one. "We've got our Pokémon with us". Sorrel remarked with a grin, holding up a Quick and Nest Ball in his right hand.

The two males then tossed the enlarged devices out forward, before they all burst open and unleashed white beams. The beams struck the ground beside Lucario, before they all cleared to reveal Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Throh and Druddigon with all five of them crying out strongly. "That should even the odds a bit". Brock remarked with a confident expression, while Sorrel looked over his shoulder towards Ash and the others. "Have faith in us, we'll take care of this. Now go!" The Pokémon Professor in training strongly urged his traveling companions, before facing forward again.

Ash immediately nodded to his sworn brother, paying no mind to Pikachu climbing onto his left shoulder. "Stay strong". The Rainbow Hero told his friends, before turning around and began running off with Verity and Piplup right behind him. "Thank you". Professor Cozmo thanked the two younger males, before running off as well. "Come on, May. Have faith in them, they'll be fine". Max said to the brunette, taking hold of May's left hand and began running off, pulling May with him. Jirachi floated after his friends as well, but not before sparing a concerned glance towards Sorrel, Brock and their Pokémon.

The mystery girl among the Team Aqua grunts looked at the retreating forms of Ash and the others, yet kept silent. 'The mission is to retrieve the Meteorite, meaning we shouldn't get distracted by small matters such as this'. The female said inside of her mind, before turning to look at Matt and saw his enraged face. 'And yet this guy has no intention to keep to the mission right now, all he wants is to beat him a kid just because they run their mouth at him. Honestly, Archie needs to pick better members for the highest rankings'. She added, before slapping her right hand on her forehead.

(Play Battle Gym Leader TV Anime Ver. ►Pocket Monsters 2019 (Ost)

"Attack!" Matt shouted out, giving the command to attack. "Crawdaunt, Bubble Beam!" Half of the Team Aqua squad, plus the mystery girl, shouted out their commands. "Walrein, Water Gun!" The other half ordered with loud voices. "Crawdaunt! /Walrein!" All of the Crawdaunts and Walreins cried out. The horde of Rouge Pokémon unleashed light blue bubbles from their pincers, while all the Ice Break Pokémon fired spirals of water. All of the attacks headed down towards Lucario, Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Throh and Druddigon, yet they all stood tall and brave as the attacks drew closer.

"Lucario, Aura Sphere! Bagon, Dragon Breath!" Sorrel commanded, swiping his right hand out to the side. "Druddigon, Flash Cannon!" Brock exclaimed, pointing his right hand's index finger out. The three cried out as Lucario fired a dark blue ball of energy, Bagon breathed out a light blue beam from its mouth. Finally, Druddigon's body becomes outlined in white energy. A white orb of energy with light blue energy then formed inside of Druddigon's mouth, and it fired a white beam of energy with light blue energy.

Aura Sphere, Dragon Breath and Flash Cannon all clashed against Bubble Beam and Water Gun, instantly causing a powerful explosion with a dark coloured smoke emerging. It quickly cleared, revealing neither side had taken any damage. Matt growled out in anger at seeing their attacks cancelled out, before roaring out in anger. "You lot are getting on my nerves super quickly! Azumarill, Mud Shot on Lucario!" The admin of Team Aqua commanded, thrusting his left fist out forward. "Azumarill!" The Aqua Mouse Pokémon exclaimed, opening its mouth with the inside glowing orange. It then fired multiple balls of mud from its mouth down towards Lucario.

Brock grew a frown at seeing Azumarill using Mud Shot, before swiping his right hand out to the side. "No, you don't! Throh, use Fire Punch to protect Lucario!" The Pokémon Breeder commanded, refusing to stand by and allow a friend to get hurt. The Judo Pokémon hummed to itself as he reared both fists up, before they were covered in red-yellow flames. "Throh!" The Fighting type cried out, and then leaped into the air and landed in front of Lucario. Arms moving like a blur, Throh began punching all of the balls of mud, causing them to turn into liquid mud.

Sorrel gave Brock a grateful smile, who just grinned at him. The two then faced forward, before the former Gym Leader held his right hand out. "Marshtomp, jump onto Bouffalant". Brock told the Mud Fish Pokémon, beginning the preparations for a combo move. "Marshtomp!" The Water and Ground type called out, jumping into the air and landed on Bouffalant's back, something that the Normal type paid no mind to. "Bouffalant, charge forward with Head Charge!" Sorrel commanded, swiping his open right hand out.

"Bouffalant!" The Bash Buffalo Pokémon exclaimed, before charging forward with the afro on its head glowing red. The front of it also began to glow yellow. The mystery woman widened her eyes in surprise at seeing this, before holding her right hand out forward. "Crawdaunt, stop them with Crabhammer!" The young girl commanded the Rouge Pokémon she was given for this mission. "Crawdaunt!" The Water and Dark type exclaimed, holding up its right pincer as it became surrounded in water. Crawdaunt then leaped towards Bouffalant, before thrusting its water surrounded pincer out forward.

Blam!

Bouffalant's Head Charge clashed against Crawdaunt's Crabhammer, the two attacks proving to be powerful as the Pokémon were unable to break past each other. Bouffalant and Crawdant glared at one another and growled, but then Marshtomp leaped off Bouffalant's back and into the air. "Marshtomp, Rock Slide go!" Brock called out with a growing grin. "Marshtomp!" The Mud Fish Pokémon cried, multiple gray rocks appearing around it before they all shot forward. The gray rocks struck a good number of Walrein, dealing massive damage as Rock Slide was super effective against the Ice Break Pokémon.

Some of the Team Aqua grunts gasped at seeing the Walreins hit by Rock Slid, then collapse onto their backs. "Good job Marshtomp!" Brock praised the Water and Ground type with a wide smile on his face. Marshtomp fell onto the ground and safely landed on its feet, before glancing over his left shoulder to look at its trainer. "Marshtomp". The Mud Fish Pokémon said with a happy voice, delighted to receive praise from Brock. "We're not finish just yet! Bagon, help Bouffalant out with Ember!" Sorrel exclaimed, swiping his open left hand out.

"Bagon! Ba-ba-bagon!" The Rock Head Pokémon proclaimed as it took off running and ran under Bouffalant, before stopping right in between the Normal type and Crawdaunt. "Craw?" The Rouge Pokémon said in surprise, glancing down towards the Dragon type standing in between it and the Bash Buffalo Pokémon. "Bagon!" Bagon exclaimed, releasing a blast of fire from its mouth right at Crawdaunt's face and landed a direct hit. Although the attack may not have been very effective, it still made Crawdaunt flinch and lose its focus on its power struggle against Bouffalant.

The Normal type took advantage of this, giving out a powerful cry as he broke through Crabhammer and rammed into Crawdaunt, landing a super powered Head Charge. "Crawdaunt!" The Water and Dark type exclaimed in pain as it was pushed back, while the mystery girl widened her eyes in surprise. "Now to get rid of one of them! Bouffalant, finish it with Smart Strike!" Sorrel ordered with a confident smirk displayed. "Bou-bou-bouffalant!" Bouffalant cried out as its horns began glowing white, before charging forward and stabbed Smart Strike into Crawdaunt.

The Rouge Pokémon gasped out, before collapsing to its back with swirls in its eyes now. Bagon jumped on top of the defeated Crawdaunt and held both its head and hands up high. "Bagon ba!" The Dragon type roared out in victory, something that made Bouffalant smile in amusement. Even the mystery girl seemed amused with the Rock Head Pokémon as she had a small smile present. The amusement wasn't shared however as Matt harshly gritted his teeth at seeing this. "How can we be losing to a bunch of kids? Azumarill, Swift attack!" The Admin of Team Aqua commanded with a glare full of hatred.

"Azumarill!" Azumarill called out, opening its mouth and unleashing yellow stars towards Lucario, Throh and Druddigon. The three nearby Pokémon glanced towards the approaching yellow star Swift attack, keeping their cool. "I'll defend, and you attack Brock! Lucario, Bone Rush to deflect Swift!" Sorrel commanded, putting his hands together and then spread them apart. "Rrrraaaa!" Lucario exclaimed, holding up his pawns together before spreading them out, creating a light green bone. The Aura Pokémon then leaped forward towards the yellow stars and began spinning the light green bone like a helicopter's blade.

The stars collided against the spinning Bone Rush, instantly getting reduced to sparkles. "Huh!?/ Azu!?" Both Matt and Azumarill cried out in surprise at seeing Swift deflected like that. "Now it's our turn to attack! Druddigon, Power-Up Punch and Throh, Fire Punch!" Brock commanded, pointing forward with his right hand's index finger out. "Druddigon!/ Throh!" The two cried out, before Druddigon reared his left fist back and Throh did the same with its right one. Druddigon's fist became surrounded in a golden aura while Throh's fist was engulfed in orange-red flames.

The two then charged forward to the Aqua Mouse Pokémon and thrust their fists out, punching Azumarill directly on the face with Power-Up Punch and Fire Punch. The double attacks together dealt some damage as Azumarill was launched off its feet and slammed right into Matt, causing the macular man to crash hard on the back. All of the Team Aqua grunts, with the exception of the mystery girl, gasped as they turned away from the battle to look down at their commander. They'd later come to regret that as it was the perfect chance for Sorrel and Brock to attack.

"Now, attack! Lucario, Aura Sphere! Bagon, Dragon Breath and Boufallant Head Charge!" Sorrel commanded his Pokémon, rearing his right fist back and then thrust it forward. "Marshtomp, use Rock Slide! Throh, Storm Throw and Druddigon, Power-Up Punch!" Brock called out, reaching out with his left hand. Lucario, Bagon, Bouffalant, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh all cried out as they proceeded to go on the attack.

Lucario held the energy bone out to the side, before it disappeared. The Aura Pokémon then held out his paws as dark blue balls of energy appeared in front of the palms. Lucario then fired the two Aura Spheres at a Crawdaunt and Walrein, the Aura Spheres exploding on impact. Meanwhile with Bagon and Boufallant, the Dragon type leaped into the air and breathed out a light blue beam at a single Walrein, while the Bash Buffalo Pokémon charged towards another Crawdaunt with its afro glowing red with the front of it also glowing yellow. The two attacks landed with the Crawdaunt being launched from its feet through the air.

Marshtomp narrowed its eyes dangerously as multiple gray rocks appeared around the Mud Fish Pokémon and all shot forward, landing super effective hits on three Ice Break Pokémon. Druddigon's right fist became surrounded in golden aura as well, before the Dragon type punched a Crawdaunt in its stomach deeply, and then spun around and struck another Rouge Pokémon. Finally, Throh grabbed the pincers of two Crawdaunts, spun around and threw them down hard on the ground on their backs.

The Walrein and Crawdaunt that were attacked by Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh were all knocked out. The Crawdant that was attacked by Head Charge from Bouffalant came crashing down and slide against the ground, before stopping with swirls in its eyes. Finally, the smoke created by Lucario's Aura Sphere attacks cleared to reveal the knocked-out Rouge and Ice Break Pokémon that Lucario attacked.

Sorrel and Brock laughed out good heartedly at seeing this, while Lucario landed on its toes safely. The Aura Pokémon had a confident smirk on its face as it glanced up towards the Team Aqua members as Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh all gathered around him.

Matt and his Azumarill sat up from the rocky ground and glared down towards the assembled group of Pokémon. 'How can this be happening? I refuse to lose to a bunch of kids! Bro's counting on me, I can't let him down!' The muscular man said inside of his mind, determination growing to succeed in the mission Achie gave to him. He stood up on his feet fully and swiped his right hand out. "Play time is over! Send out the Tentacruel!" Matt called out loudly, causing the Team Aqua grunts to narrow their eyes and nod to their commander.

"Go! Tentacruel!" The nameless grunts called as they tossed out Poké Ball, which the devices opened and unleashed white beams that cleared to reveal a horde of Tentacruel. All of the Jellyfish Pokémon glared towards their newest opponents, while Lucario, Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh narrowed their eyes at the horde of Water and Poison types. "Aww, nuts". Brock said with gritted teeth and a single bit of sweat at seeing the new opponents. "Looks like we're not done just yet". Sorrel remarked, before glancing down towards his right hand's wrist where his metal wrist band with the Key Stone was.

'I'll save it for latter, when I really need it. For now, let's see how this plays out'. The Pokémon Professor in training thought to himself, looking back towards Team Aqua's Tentacruel to see them all charging forward to attack.

(Music end/ Meanwhile with Ash and the others)

While Sorrel, Brock and their Pokémon dealt with the Team Aqua squad lead by Matt; Ash, Verity, May, Max, Professor Cozmo, Pikachu, Piplup and Jirachi have managed to make some distance between them and get to safety. Right now, they have all stopped to take a small break. The five humans were sitting down on some boulders close to each other with Pikachu, Piplup and Jirachi standing beside their trainers.

May gave a slightly exhausted sigh as she rested both hands on her knees. "Today sure has been exhausting, and I haven't even done any battling yet. Going up a mountain and then down is really tiring". The brunette moaned out, her stamina not yet at the same level as the more experienced trainers. Max and Jirachi looked at May from their spots on the brunette's left. "You really need to exercise more often, you know that? Today's not even finish and you're already exhausted". The Petalburg boy said with a disappointed frown on his face. 'You're weak'. Jirachi commented with an innocent voice.

May groaned as she grew an anime aura of depression around herself, something that made Max and Jirachi sweat drop at. While the two siblings had their chat together, Ash and Verity chat with Professor Cozmo. "I'm surprised to see you here at Mt. Chimney away from Fallarbor Town, Professor Cozmo". Ash said to the older male, sitting across Cozmo with Pikachu standing beside him on his left, and Verity sitting on the right with Piplup beside her. "What are you even doing up here anyway?" Verity asked Professor Cozmo with a curious voice.

Professor Cozmo gave a smile at the Twinleaf girl. "I came here to search if any more meteorites had crashed down here at Mt. Chimney, just like this one". The professor answered the Pokémon Coordinator, looking down at the Meteorite in his hands. Cozmo's words not only filled Ash, Verity, Pikachu and Piplup with curiosity, but even caught the attention of May, Max and Jirachi. "Just like the one you have? Are you saying this is where you first found the Meteorite?" Ash asked with curiosity to learn how Professor Cozmo acquired the Meteorite. Cozmo looked at the Rainbow Hero and nodded his head in an answer.

"That's right. It happened 3 months ago, I came here to Mt. Chimney to search for a Meteorite and found this. This Meteorite has helped me in my research greatly since". The professor explained to the young trainers and their Pokémon, much to their fascination. "I had come back here in hopes that another one, maybe broken off from a large asteroid, had come down to Mt. Chimney. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like we've gotten any new visitors from outer space just yet". Cozmo added, lifting his head to look up into the sky, towards outer space.

"Professor Cozmo, can I ask you something?" Max suddenly asked the professor, grabbing Cozmo's attention as he turned to look at the young boy. "Why did you decide to study asteroids in the first place? Did something happen that made you decide to become a professor?" The young boy questioned the professor, wanting to hear from him on why he decided to study asteroids. Cozmo gave an understanding smile at the young boy, before looking up at the sky once more.

"I guess it's because the universe is chuck full of mysteries and questions". The 40-year-old man answered, resulting in Max and Jirachi tilting their heads in wonder. Ash, Verity, May, Pikachu and Piplup stayed silent as they listened in.

"Oh boy, I don't know where to begin. There are so many things about the universe that holds unanswered questions. I chose to study asteroids and meteorites because they are one of the few things from space we can actually touch with our hands. At the end of a long journey, giant asteroids finally come crashing down into the Earth's atmosphere. We see them as meteors, streaking across the night sky, quickly growing smaller and smaller, becoming meteorites. By the time they reach us here on Earth, they've covered unimaginable distances in space and time". Professor Cozmo explained, tilting his head down to look at the Meteorite in his hands in the middle of the speech he was giving.

The gang all had amazed expressions on their faces after listening to Professor Cozmo as what he said really resonated with them. Cozmo then looked towards Ash, Verity, Pikachu and Piplup. "They are quit the travelers; wouldn't you all agree?" The male adult asked, which everyone nodded their heads to him. "After listening to you, I think Meteorites are so cool now. It even reminds me of the Millennium Comet". Max said with an excited voice, before laughing as he and Jirachi turned to look at one another and smiled happily.

What Max said caught Professor Cozmo's attention as he turned to look at the young boy with a fascinated smile. "Ahh, yes; the Millennium Comet. The comet said to only to be visible for 7 days once every 1000 years, correct?" The professor asked Max, grabbing his and Jirachi's attention as they turned to look at him and nod. "That's right. Believe it or not, we got to see it with our own eyes". The Petalburg boy revealed to the older male, much to Professor Cozmo's furth fascination. "I see. I also saw the Millennium Comet, but I wasn't able to go to the Millennium Festival". Cozmo told the young trainers, catching Ash's attention at what he said.

"Are you saying you saw the Millennium Comet from Fallarbor Town?" The Rainbow Hero asked with curiosity, which Cozmo nodded to him. "Hey Professor Cozmo, is it alright if I can hold the Meteorite?" Max suddenly asked the professor, catching Cozmo's attention once more as he looked at the Petalburg boy and gave a smile at him. "Of course, I don't mind". The professor answered, handing the Meteorite over to Max. The young boy nearly yelped in surprise at how unexpectedly heavy the Meteorite was, but caught himself and managed to get a good hold of the rock.

Max looked down at the Meteorite in his hands for a moment, before glancing to Jirachi. "This Meteorite is way heavier than you were, Jirachi". Max told his best friend, something that made the Wish Pokémon tilt his head in confusion. 'I...wasn't heavy?' The Steel and Psychic type asked with an innocent voice, causing Max to laugh happily at. Everyone watched the two best friends with warm smiles on their faces, but then a very faint rainbow glow entered Ash's left eye view. He and Pikachu looked to see a small rainbow glow coming from the Rainbow Hero's left pocket, right where the Rainbow Wing is.

'Is the Rainbow Wing reacting to the Meteorite? But why though?' The raven-haired boy questioned inside of his mind, before looking towards Pikachu and saw the Electric Mouse looking at him. "Pika?" Pikachu asked the Rainbow Hero, which Ash just gave a shrug of his shoulders. Before the two could speak to inform their friends, the glow died down completely right as Max handed the Meteorite back to Professor Cozmo. 'Well, that was random'. Ash thought to himself, before both he and Pikachu returned their attention to Professor Cozmo.

"The Meteorite is an incredible thing to have come down from space to Earth. That's why I won't allow either Team Magma or Aqua to have and use it for their evil purposes". The 40-year-old man declared with a determined expression as he held the Meteorite up a bit. Just then out of nowhere, a Golbat flew in and took the Meteorite out of Professor Cozmo's hands, much to the surprise of everyone as they cried out a bit.

The Flying and Poison type flew up to a nearby high mountain, where Courtney stood at the edge with her Ninetales right beside her. Behind the two were the squad of Team Magma grunts, Mightyena and Golbat that the female admin took with her.

The Golbat dropped the Meteorite to Courtney, who caught it with both her hands, yet her eyes weren't on the rock. Instead, they were focused on Ash with a pleased smile displayed on her face. "Team Magma!" Verity, May and Max cried out with narrowed eyes as they and Professor Cozmo shot up to their feet. "Piplup!" Piplup cried out with narrowed eyes, jumping off the boulder and landed beside Verity. Ash also stood up on his feet, but he had a small expression of surprise directed at Courtney. Even Pikachu looked surprised to see the purple haired female again.

"It's you! You're that girl I met back in Oldale Town!" Ash called out as he narrowed his eyes in a serious fashion. "Pika-pika!" Pikachu exclaimed with a frown, remembering his and Zoroark's battle against the girl's Camerupt. Verity, May, Max, Cozmo, Piplup and Jirachi turned to look at the Rainbow and his best friend in surprise, while Courtney's smile widened a bit. "I'm happy to hear that you remember me. I've been looking forward to our next encounter for a long time now". Courtney said with a hint of delight leaking out of her voice, something that made Ninetales look at the purple-haired girl in slight surprise.

"Ash, who's this girl? And how do you know her?" May questioned her boyfriend with a mix of curiosity and surprise that he knew Courtney. "I'll explain later, May. Right now, we need to get the Meteorite back". The Rainbow Hero replied to the brunette, eyes still focus on the female admin of Team Magma. "Don't worry, Jirachi can just-" Max began, only to be cut off by his idol as Ash turned to him and shook his head. "No, don't do it when Team Magma can see". The raven-haired boy told Max, causing him and Jirachi to blink in surprise.

"He's right, don't do it. If Team Magma finds out about Jirachi's power to teleport, they'll most likely go after him to use his powers to bring Groudon to them". Verity explained to the Petalburg boy with a low voice so that Team Magma wouldn't hear her. At this, Max and Jirachi immediately shut their mouths and placed both their hands over them. "Sorry Professor Cozmo, but we can't risk drawing attention to Jirachi". May apologized to the professor, which he gave her an understanding expression. "There's no need to apologize, I understand". Cozmo said to the brunette, turning to briefly look at her before looking back up at Team Magma.

"Miss Courtney, we've acquired the Meteorite, we should return to Leader Maxie and the others now". A nameless Team Magma grunt with brown spikey hair advised to the female Admin. Courtney didn't so much as twitch at the grunt's words, her eyes locked gently on Ash with a sort of longing in her eyes. "Miss Courtney?" The same grunt said to Courtney in confusion, before gasping in surprise as Courtney unexpectedly handed the Meteorite to him. He and the rest of the Team Magma grunts and their Pokémon stared at the purple-haired female in confusion with the only exception being Courtney's Ninetales, who stared at her training in curiosity.

"Take the Meteorite and return to Leader Maxie. I'm gonna stay here and finish something I've left unfished for a while now". The young female admin told the grunts, still looking down towards Ash, who was looking up at her as well. "What!? But Miss Courtney..." The male Team Magma grunt began, only to be cut off by Courtney looking at him through the corner of her left eye with a cold glare. "Do not disobey me". The purple-haired girl warned with an emotionless voice, making the nameless grunt flinch. He then nodded in a scared manner, before turning to look at the other grunts.

"Our business here is concluded. We must return to Leader Maxie and help him in the battle against Team Aqua!" The male exclaimed to his comrades with a more normal tone of voice. The Team Magma grunts and their Pokémon nodded, before they all took off back towards where their comrades were battling against Team Aqua. "How dare they!" Professor Cozmo exclaimed, slightly lifting his right fist up a bit. Courtney gave a giggle as she held up an enlarged Poké Ball with her right hand. The device opened and unleashed a white beam into the air.

The beam went high, before clearing to reveal a large, dark-blue bird Pokémon with a red breast and face. A crest of feathers sweeps back from the top of its head. A blue stripe separates the red markings on its head and chest, and it had a white underside. It has small, narrow eyes, a pointed, yellow beak, and red feet with black talons. Each foot has three forward-facing toes and one pointed backward. Two long, pointed feathers with red tips form its tail. "Swellow!" The dark-blue bird Pokémon cried out with a female voice, before beginning to flap its wings.

"It's a Swellow!" Max called out in alarm, identifying the Pokémon that Courtney just sent out. Ash gave a small grin at the Swallow Pokémon. Ever since he had first seen a Swellow, the Rainbow Hero had grown a desire to evolve his Tailow into one as he liked the Swallow Pokémon a bit. True he hasn't used Tailow for a while, but he was confident that his Pokémon back home weren't just relaxing, but training as well for the day he calls on them. It was one of the reasons Donphan had learned Gunk Shot back home, and Ash was always excited to see the progress his Pokémon made.

Courtney's Swellow flew down to its trainer and gently grabbed hold of her shoulders with its feet. With surprisingly incredible strength, the Swellow flew up into the air, bringing Courtney alone with it. May gasped in surprise as the Flying and Normal type flew down to the ground 10 feet away from the gang. Swellow gently placed Courtney down on her feet, while Ninetales leaped up from the mountain and landed beside her trainer on Courtney's left side. Throughout it all, the purple-haired girl kept her eyes on Ash.

"Whoa... Her Swellow must be incredibly strong to carry her like that". Verity whispered with slightly wide eyes. Piplup nodded in agreement to what Verity said, while Ash just stared at Courtney for a moment, before lifting his right hand and gave a small wave at her. "Hey. Long time no see". The Rainbow Hero greeted the young admin with a casual voice, something that made Courtney giggle a little at him. "I've been looking forward to seeing you again". The purple-haired girl greeted Ash back as her Swellow flew beside her on the right.

Ash grew a small grin at her greetings, before slightly turning his head to look at Verity. "Verity, take May, Max, Professor Cozmo and go after the Meteorite". The Rainbow Hero told his main girlfriend, grabbing the Twinleaf girl's attention as she looked at Ash. "But what about you?" The tomboyish girl questioned the Rainbow Hero, though she had a good idea what he planned to do.

"Pikachu and I will stay here. We've got some unfinished business to take care of. We'll catch up with you later". Ash answered the Sinnoh resident as Pikachu climbed up to his left shoulder. "Pikachu-pi!" The Electric Mouse exclaimed with a confident smirk, happy to settle an unsettled manner for some time now.

Verity and Piplup smiled at the two, before the tomboyish girl nodded her head at Ash. "Okay, but when this is all over, you're gonna explain what kind of history you and this girl have together". The female Pokémon Coordinator told her boyfriend, before turning to look at the others. "Come on, guys. We're going after that Meteorite". The tomboyish girl told her friends, grabbing all of their attention as they looked and nodded to her. Piplup jumped into Verity's hands, before the Twinleaf girl took off running with Max, Jirachi and Professor Cozmo.

May turned to look at her boyfriend with a slightly worried look. "Be careful Ash". The brunette told the Rainbow Hero, and then ran after the others. They all passed Courtney and her Pokémon, who made no attempt to stop them whatsoever, something that made Ash and Pikachu narrow their eyes at her.

"You let them go after your friends. Why?" Ash questioned Courtney why she made no effort to stop his friends. "Simple; I just don't care about them". The purple-haired female answered, causing Ash to raise an eyebrow at her. "Is that so". The Rainbow Hero stated, before reaching into both of his pants' pockets with both hands.

"Yup. Besides, they're walking into a battle between us and Team Aqua, they have no chance of survival". Courtney told the Rainbow Hero and his Electric Mouse, taking a step back with her right leg and slightly turned to the right. "But I don't care about that right now. All I want is to...engage you and see what happens". The female admin of Team Magma added as Ninetales and Swellow went forward in front of their trainer and glared at the Rainbow Hero. "Ninetales!/ Swellow!" The two cried out, ready to battle at their trainer's command.

"I want to..." She began, slowly lifting her right hand up as she spoke. "...Analyse you". Courtney finished, giving a wide-eyed wondering expression with her right tapping the chin, before gleefully covering her mouth with both hand and giggled in a cute manner. Ash slightly widened his eyes at seeing Courtney's cute look, feeling his heart skip a beat. 'Why...do I find that look of hers cute?' The Rainbow Hero questioned inside of his mind as that giggling face of Courtney somehow made him blush. Ash's blushing face was noticed by Pikachu, who tilted his head at seeing the Rainbow Hero like that.

(Play Pokémon OR/AS & Anime - Team Aqua/Magma Battle Mashup (HQ)

Ash then shook his head sideways anime style to rid himself of the blush. He then stopped and stared at Courtney with a slightly flushed face. "As much as I'm enjoying our little chat together..." The Rainbow Hero began as he brought out both his hands and held them out, revealing two shrunken Poké Balls in hand. He tapped on the centers, causing the devices to enlarge in his hands. "But it's time we finally settle the matter between us since Oldale Town once and for all!" Ash finished, before throwing both arms into the air and tossed the Poké Balls up.

The devices burst open and released white beams that went down and struck the ground in front of Ash and Pikachu. They took shape and cleared to reveal both Dragonite and Kingler. The two gave out powerful cries with Dragonite spreading her wings and Kingler slamming its large pincer down on the ground, cracking it a bit. Ash reached up and caught his Pokémon's Poké Balls with both hands, before putting them away and glanced towards Courtney.

The young girl had ceased her giggling and was now smiling at the Rainbow Hero in a confident way. "Fine then, if you're in a hurry to be defeated then. Ninetales, Sunny Day!" Courtney commanded, swiping her right hand up with the index finger out. "Ninetales!" The Fire type cried out, emitting a beam of light that reaches the sky and the ground around its body. The sun's sunlight intensified, causing Kingler to groan a bit while Ash, Pikachu and Dragonite to hold up their left forearms to shield their eyes.

"I'm more annoyed at the fact they made the temperature up here hotter than before instead of powering up Fire type moves and weakening Water types". Ash remarked with an annoyed frown on his face, more upset at the increased hot weather than the match. "Pika..." Pikachu groaned out, beginning to sweat a bit. "Now Ninetales, Fire Spin! And Swellow, Steel Wing!" Courtney commanded, slowly holding her right hand out forward. The Fox Pokémon exclaimed, before unleashing a spiraling flame from its mouth. Swellow charged forward with its wings glowing a bright white light.

"Bring it on! Dragonite, use Dragon Dance to defend and Kingler, counter Steel Wing with Metal Claw!" Ash commanded, rearing his left fist back before thrusting it out forward. Both Dragonite and Kingler cried out, before the female dragon took flight, while the Water-type's large pincer turned into pure metal. Dragonite's body becomes surrounded in orange energy as she began spinning rather quickly, right as the spiraling flame struck, yet was deflected. Kingler thrust its metal pincer out, clashing against Swellow's right wing, resulting in Metal Claw facing off against Steel Wing.

Courtney widened her eyes at seeing Ninetales' Fire Spin get deflected by Dragon Dance. The spiraling flame then died down slowly, before completely with Dragonite ceasing its spinning with the orange energy disappearing. As for Kingler, it overpowered Swellow's Steel Wing and sent it flying. The Flying and Normal cried as it regained control of itself and glanced down at the Water-type with narrowed eyes. "Our turn to attack now! Dragonite, use Dragon Claw on Ninetales and Kingler, Knock Off on Swellow!" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed, pointing his left hand's index finger forward.

Dragonite's claws were covered in a light-green aura that formed into claw-like shapes. Kingler held up its giant pincer as it turned back to normal, before it became surrounded by black sparks. The Dragon Pokémon then began diving down towards the Fox Pokémon, while Kingler surprisingly leaped off the ground towards Swellow. Courtney gave a calm smile as she lightly raised her right hand. "Ninetales, counter with Solar Beam and Swellow, Double Team". The young girl commanded the two with no hint of panic leaking out of her voice.

"Ninetales!" The Fire-type exclaimed as it held up its tails and began absorbing sunlight from the sun above. Thanks to it using Sunny Day earlier, Ninetales absorbed enough sunlight quickly as its tails glowed a gold colour, before opening its mouth and fired a white beam of energy from its mouth towards Dragonite. Unfortunately, the female Dragon Pokémon brought her aura covered claws together and tore right through Solar Beam onto Ninetales, landing a direct hit that sent her flying.

Meanwhile with Kingler and Swellow, just as the Pincer Pokémon came right up in front of its opponent, Swellow's body flashed white for a moment. Then the flash died down and multiple copies appeared around the air born Kingler as it swiped its black sparkles covered pincer down on the "Swellow" in front to it, only for it to be revealed as a copy. Due to its weight, the Water-type then began falling to the ground, but managed to land on its legs. Dragonite flew back into the air as Dragon Claw dispersed, while Ninetales slammed and slide against the ground a bit. The Fire-type then quickly got back on her feet, glaring up towards the female Dragon Pokémon.

"Swellow, use Fly!" The female admin of Team Magma commanded, swiping her right hand into the air with the index finger out. "Swellow!" The Flying and Normal type exclaimed as all its copies disappeared, before flying up higher into the air. Ash and Pikachu looked up towards the ascending form of Swellow, before the Rainbow Hero swiped the right arm out to the side. "Dragonite, go after her!" Ash told the Dragon Pokémon, receiving a cry from Dragonite as she flew after Swellow, leaving Kingler to face Ninetales by himself.

"Ninetales, Solar Beam again!" Courtney commanded with a sly smile. The Fire-type cried out, holding up its tails as she began absorbing sunlight again. Once she fully absorbed enough sunlight, Ninetales unleashed another white beam of energy from its mouth towards Kingler. Ash lightly gritted his teeth at seeing this, before swiping his right hand out to the side. "Kingler, use X-Scissor to defend yourself!" The raven-haired boy commanded the Pincer Pokémon, using the best solution he can think of for Kingler to protect itself. The Water-type screeched a little as its claws began glowing light blue.

Kingler then puts its claws together in front of it and a light blue 'X'-like energy with a magenta outline appeared in front of its claws. It then shot forward and collided against Solar Beam, resulting in both attacks exploding on impact. The explosion left a smokescreen that covered Ninetales from Kingler's sight, getting the Water-type to narrow its eyes in annoyance. "Zen Headbutt!" Courtney commanded with a loud voice from her side of the smokescreen. Ninetales then shot out of the smoke with the top part of its head glowing blue. It then rammed into Kinglar, landing a direct hit with Zen Headbutt and pushing Kinglar back.

The Water-type slide against the ground a bit with its eyes closed, before eventually stopping. Kingler opened its eyes and glared towards Ninetales as the Fire type's head stopped glowing blue. Meanwhile with Dragonite and Swellow, the Dragon Pokémon was still chasing after the smaller Flying-type as they flew high up into the sky. However, the Swallow Pokémon suddenly ceased ascending and flew down towards Dragonite, ramming its head into Dragonite's stomach, causing her to flinch. Courtney smirked at the sight of Swellow's Fly attack landing a hit. "Now, Air Slash!" Courtney commanded with a loud voice for her Swallow Pokémon to hear.

Swellow heard its trainer as it flew a bit away from Dragonite. Its wings then glow light blue and then flap them, firing multiple light-blue, glowing blades of energy from them at the Dragon Pokémon, landing a clean hit with them all. "Pika!" Pikachu cried out in concern for Dragonite, while Ash gritted his teeth. "Don't give up. Hurricane, go!" The Rainbow Hero commanded, throwing his open left hand out. Dragonite's eyes shot open to reveal pure determination in them. She then cried out and began its wings and released a powerful gust of wind from them at Swellow.

Hurricane landed a direct hit on the Swallow Pokémon, pushing the female Swellow back with it crying out in pain. Swellow quickly recovered as it spread both wings out fully, before it and Dragonite flew back down. The two stopped right above the ground and began flapping their wings, staying air born next to their partners of the battle. Ash and Pikachu stared across the Pokémon towards Courtney's sly grinning face, but then the Electric Mouse took notice of something up above. "Pika?" Pikachu looked up towards the sky to see the harsh sunlight dying down a little bit, a sign of Sunny Day dying down. "Pikachu pika!" The Electric type said to his best friend with an urgent voice.

Ash turned to look at his starter and saw Pikachu pointing up towards the sky with its left hand's finger. The Rainbow Hero looked and saw Sunny Day's effects no longer affecting the sun, causing Ash to grow a smirk. "Sunny Day's effects are gone now. Time to go on the attack". The raven-haired boy said with a confident voice, tilting his head down to look forward. "Kingler, Crabhammer!" Ash commanded, swiping his left hand out and holding it like a claw. Kingler let out a cry, its left claw suddenly becoming surrounded by water.

Kingler then began crawling towards Ninetales with the intention to strike her with Crabhammer. Courtney wasn't going to allow it, however. The purple-haired female narrowed her eyes, before rearing her right hand in and then thrust it out. "Ninetales, Fire Spin go!" Courtney commanded with a clear voice. "Ninetales!" The Fox Pokémon cried out, unleashing another spiraling flame at the approaching Water type.

Ash widened his eyes in excitement at seeing this move. 'Now's our chance for that new combo move!' The Rainbow Hero shouted out inside of his mind, and then grew a smirk. "Dragonite, Dragon Dance and Aqua Tail!" Ash exclaimed, throwing out his right fist out forward. Dragonite widened her eyes as well, giving out a fierce cry as she flew forward. As she flew, Dragonite's tail became surrounded in swirling water before flying over Kingler and into in front of the Water type.

Kingler stopped advancing, while the Dragon Pokémon's body becomes surrounded in orange energy as she began spinning rather quickly. The swirling water surrounding her tail grew larger and powerful, engulfing the Dragon Pokémon in water and covering her from view.

The spiraling flame struck the swirling water covered Dragonite, yet did absolutely nothing to the Dragon Pokémon. Dragonite then charged forward past Fire Spin towards Ninetails, but at the last second before impact, she changed course and went up towards Swellow. The Flying and Normal type exclaimed with wide eyes, right before Dragonite slammed into her and landed a hit. Meanwhile with Kingler, the Pincer Pokémon resumed charging towards Ninetales, who was too distracted by Dragonite attacking Swellow, and slammed its water covered claw into the Fox Pokémon, landing a super effective attack.

"Ahhh!" Courtney gasped in surprise as both Swellow and Ninetales crashed onto the ground in front of her. The water covered Dragonite flew into the air, before both the swirling water and orange energy disappeared to reveal the grinning female Dragon Pokémon. Dragonite gave a rallying cry with her claws lightly up, while Kingler's claw lost the water surrounding it. "Did ya like that? It's a combo move I like to call "Aqua Dance", a move combining Dragon Dance and Aqua Tail". The Rainbow Hero said with a smirk still displayed on his face. "Pika-pika". Pikachu remarked with a smirk of his own.

During the training Ash had with his current team of Pokémon, he had been working on combo moves with all of them. He had managed to make progress with them with Aqua Dance being Dragonite's combo move. The other combo moves with Kingler, Primeape, Donphan and Trevenant had proven to be difficult, but was still successful despite the hard attempts.

Swellow and Ninetails got up on their feet and glared towards their opponents, before the Swallow Pokémon spread her wings and took flight. "Not bad. But we're not done yet. Swellow, Air Slash! And Ninetales, Zen Headbutt!" Courtney commanded her Pokémon. "Ninetales!/ Swellow!" The two cried out as they attacked. Swellow's wings began to glow light blue and then flapped them, firing multiple light-blue, glowing blades of energy towards Dragonite. Ninetales charged towards Kingler with its head glowing light blue.

Dragonite crossed her arms in a shield, while Kingler held its larger claw in front of its face. Both Air Slash and Zen Headbutt struck their targets, yet Dragonite and Kingler successfully defended themselves from the attacks. Courtney gave an impressed smile at the Rainbow Hero. "Your Pokémon have impressive defense powers". The female admin of Team Magma said to Ash, getting him to grin at her. "You're not bad yourself, but the battle isn't over yet". The raven-haired boy replied to the purple-haired female, getting her to giggle at him.

"Something we can agree on. Fire Spin!" Courtney commanded, rearing her right hand in and then swiped it out to the side. The Fox Pokémon roared out, opening its mouth and fired a spiraling flame towards Kingler. "Defend with Crabhammer!" Ash commanded, swiping up his left forearm. Kingler cried out as its giant claw became surrounded by water once more. The Water type then held up its claw, resulting in Fire Spin striking the water covered claw. Kingler stood strong, holding Fire Spin back with Crabhammer. "Hope ya like that, now try this! Dragonite, Hurricane!" The Rainbow Hero called out with energetic voice, throwing his right fist into the air.

The Dragon and Flying type cried out as she began flapping her wings strongly, releasing a powerful gust of wind at Swellow. "Dodge using Double Team!" Courtney called out with slightly narrowed eyes. "Swellow!" The Flying and Normal type cried out as its body flashed white for a moment, before creating multiple copies of itself. The powerful gust of wind struck one of the Swellows, yet it was a copy and continued on. Hurricane went on ahead to hit the edge of the mountain that Courtney had been standing on. Dragonite's Hurricane attack broke off a large piece of the mountain, which began falling down towards Courtney.

Ash and Pikachu gasped in concern at seeing the broken off part of the mountain falling down towards an unsuspecting Courtney. "Hey, watch out!" The Rainbow Hero cried out to Courtney with worry, catching the purple-haired girl off guard. She wasn't the only one caught off guard as Ash's shout caught the attention of Dragonite, Kingler, Ninetales and Swellow. The four of them all looked over, only to cry out in alarm at seeing the boulder falling down towards the unsuspecting Courtney. A confused Courtney raised an eyebrow at the panicking cries of the Pokémon, before finally looking up and widened her eyes at seeing the boulder as it was incredibly close to squashing her.

Ash gritted his teeth at the whole situation, and the only way to saving Courtney's life. 'Darn it all!' Ash shouted out in his head, before both eyes began glowing a rainbow colour as he accessed the powers of the Rainbow Hero. Rainbow coloured angel wings magically erupted out of Ash's back and spread out fully. With speed as fast enough for the world to stop completely, Ash flapped his wings and lifted himself slightly off of the ground. The Rainbow Hero then shot forward towards Courtney with his wings spread out completely, going as fast as he could. The rock slowly drew closer towards Courtney and just as it was about to crush her, Ash flew out, grabbed Courtney and flew away to a safe distance.

(Music end)

The large broken off piece crashed down hard on the ground, kicking up a large dust cloud that covered what happened to the two trainers. Dragonite, Kingler, Ninetales and Swellow all cried out in concern for their trainers as Dragonite ceased flapping hers wings and Swellow's doubles disappeared.

On the other side of the large broken off boulder, the Rainbow Hero held the female Admin of Team Magma in a sort of embrace with the two right above the ground, Pikachu still on his best friend's shoulder. Ash had his arms around Courtney's waist, as if he's keeping her from falling and was learning forward a bit, while she had her hands on Ash's biceps with both young trainers looking right at each other's faces.

Ash gave a relived sigh at seeing Courtney safe and sound. Courtney, on the other hand, had wide eyes full of disbelief at the sight before her as she saw both Ash's rainbow glowing eyes and wings. In Courtney's eyes, it was perhaps the most majestic sight she's ever seen in her whole life. "You're an...angel..." The purple-haired female said in a daze, getting both Ash and Pikachu to blink in surprise. The Rainbow Hero then grew a small blush, before looking away to the side. "You...flatter me". The Kanto resident stated, honestly a bit baffled that she called him an angel.

The surprises didn't stop there as Courtney's arms left Ash's biceps and went to his face, gently being placed on the Rainbow Hero's cheeks. Ash and Pikachu frowned in confusion as Courtney turned Ash's face to turn towards her. Then, without an explanation or warning, the female admin leaned forward and kissed Ash on the lips. Ash's eyes shot wide open in surprise, while Pikachu's face flushed with his eyes turning into anime white dots.

Heck, even Dragonite, Kingler, Ninetales and Swellow witnessed this as they went around the boulder to check on their trainers and saw the surprising sight of them lip locking. They all cried out at seeing Ash and Courtney kissing, yet the purple-haired female paid them no attention. It looked like her only focus was on Ash as she closed both eyes and gave a small moan of pleasure.

The Rainbow Hero still had wide eyes at the unexpected course of action with the rainbow glow dying down until they returned to normal. Even Ash's wings disappeared with a rainbow flash with both trainers softly landing on the ground on their feet. Eventually, Courtney broke the kiss as she leaned back from Ash, giving a small gasp of air as she did so.

Ash's cheeks were still flushed from the whole ordeal, staring at Courtney as if she had two heads. "W-w-why'd you do that?" The Kanto resident stuttered with a nervous voice. He was expecting a lot of things from his act of saving her, but getting a kiss on the lips from Courtney wasn't one of them. "That was my way of saying "Thank you" for saving my life". The purple-haired girl answered, taking her hands off of Ash's cheeks and folded them behind herself as she stepped back. "Y-you could have just simply said "Thank you", you know". The Rainbow Hero said as he glanced to the left, allowing him to see Pikachu's blushing face.

Courtney simply giggled in response, before licking her lips. "Maybe... But now you have an irreplaceable memory of me and I got to taste your lips". The purple-haired girl said with an innocent look, causing Ash and Pikachu's faces to turn nuclear red with steam coming out of their heads, something that the other Pokémon copied perfectly as they were truly astonished by Courtney's straightforward approach.

'W-what's with this girl? Last time we met she was almost like a robot, but now she's more human and even had the nerve to kiss me despite the battle we were just having! Did I really have that big of an impact on her?' Ash questioned inside of his mind, before taking a look at Courtney through the corner of his right eye.

The purple-haired girl noticed the Rainbow Hero glancing at her and gave a wink of the right eye, resulting his cheeks to burn more. However, Ash immediately ceased blushing upon thinking what would happen if Verity and May found out about this. 'Oh man... If they found out I got kissed by her, I'm dead meat'. The Rainbow Hero thought to himself, before gulping as he could imagine his girlfriends glaring down at him with red glowing eyes and imaginary fire surrounding them. Courtney tilted her head at seeing the growing expression of dread on Ash's face.

Before she could have the chance to question him, Ash shook his head sideways anime style to rid himself of those terrifying thoughts. He then looked back at Courtney, focusing with all his might to not blush. "So, are we gonna continue our battle?" The Rainbow Hero questioned the young girl, wanting to check and see if she still had the intention to battle him. Ash's question snapped Dragonite, Kingler, Ninetales and Swellow out of their blushing daze as they all hurried to their trainers' side.

Dragonite stopped on Ash left, while Kingler was on the right. Ninetales stopped right at Courtney's left, while Swellow flew right next to the girl on her right. Even Pikachu snapped himself out of it and gave a cold look towards Courtney. But much to the surprise of everyone, Courtney held her hands out in front of Ninetales and Swellow. Everyone looked at the female admin and saw Courtney shaking her head sideways. "There's no need for that. You saved my life, so my thanks for that; you can have the victory of this battle". The purple-haired female told the Rainbow Hero, lowering both her hands as she spoke.

Ash and his Pokémon all gave surprised expressions, while Ninetales and Swellow stared at their trainer. The Fox Pokémon then sat down on the ground, while the Flying and Normal type perched herself on Courtney's right shoulder. Seeing that their opponents no longer ready to battle, Dragonite and Kingler relaxed as the Dragon Pokémon softly landed on the ground. The faces of Ash and Pikachu eased as they could see that their opponent meant her words. "You know something? We never formally introduced ourselves to each other". Ash pointed out that in their two encounters, they never introduced themselves.

Courtney giggled and smiled in amusement, placing her right hand on her chest and gave a small bow to Ash. "I am Courtney, one of the Three Fires and Admins of Team Magma". Courtney introduced herself, before gesturing to Ninetales and then Swellow with her left hand. "These are my Pokémon; Ninetales and Swellow". The young girl added with Ninetales and Swellow greeting Ash and his Pokémon with cries.

The Rainbow Hero crossed his arms and nodded his head in acknowledgement. "I'm Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town in the Kanto Region, and this is my best friend Pikachu". Ash introduced both himself and Pikachu to Courtney, tilting his head to the Electric Mouse on his shoulder. "Pikachu". Pikachu greeted the purple-haired girl with a normal voice, unsure if he should be relaxed around her just yet. "And you've already met Dragonite and Kingler". The raven-haired boy added. Kingler gave a cry as a greeting, while Dragonite flew forward and gave Courtney and Swellow a big hug as a greeting.

Courtney and Swellow looked surprised at Dragonite's sudden hug while Ninetales stared at the Dragon Pokémon with wide eyes of wonder. Ash and Pikachu chuckled with Kingler looking amused at the female Dragon Pokémon's way of greetings. Dragonite then released Courtney and Swellow from its hug and returned to her spot beside Ash, leaving the purple-haired girl blinking.

Ash then dropped his smile and replaced it with a serious face directed at the admin of Team Magma. "With our battle taken care of, I need to get moving to catch up with my friends to get the Meteorite back". Ash said as he held up both hands with two enlarged Poké Balls in hand.

Wordlessly, he recalled both Dragonite and Kingler to the device, before putting them away. "You're welcome to follow, but don't try to stop me". The Rainbow Hero added, before turning around and began walking off with the intention to catch up to his friends. "It's best that you don't get involved". Courtney warned the Kanto resident, stopping Ash in his tracks as what she said. "Pika?" Pikachu said in confusion as he and Ash looked over their shoulders towards Courtney and her Pokémon, waiting for an explanation on what she meant.

"At the top of Mt. Chimney, my comrades of Team Magma are battling against our arch nemesis, Team Aqua. Leader Maxie and the other Admins are battling against Team Aqua's leader and Admins as well for the Meteorite. If you try to get involved, you'll be stepping into a battlefield. I advise you and your friends to stay out of this". Courtney warned the Rainbow Hero with an edge in her voice. If she was expecting Ash to become intimidated, she'd be disappointed because the Rainbow Hero didn't so much as flinch and just scoffed.

"Trust me when I say this, getting involved in dangerous situations is nothing new to me. Besides, I can't stay by and let either Team Magma and Team Aqua get ahead of accomplishing their goals". The Rainbow Hero told the purple-haired girl, both he and Pikachu turning to face forward again. "Team Magma's goal is to help humanity". Courtney said with a dangerous edge in her voice, getting Ash to narrow his eyes. "By messing around with nature through the power of legendary Pokémon. You guys have no idea what you're messing with by trying to capture Groudon". The Rainbow Hero retaliated, before he resumed walking away.

Courtney and her Pokémon didn't attempt to stop Ash and Pikachu, staying still as the Rainbow Hero continued to walk away. "...I'm not saying Team Magma's goal of helping humanity is wrong, it's the methods that are the problem. Instead of looking of using perhaps uncontrolled power, you guys should look for a different way". Ash told the purple-haired girl as he continued walking away, causing Courtney to lightly gasp at what he said. "...!" Courtney widened her eyes at Ash, as if what he said was completely crazy.

Ash soon disappeared from sight, leaving Courtney and her Pokémon alone. "Nine?/ Swell?" Both Ninetales and Swellow looked at their trainer and saw her stunned face. 'Another way to achieve our goal of helping humanity?' Courtney questioned inside of her mind, but then grew an emotionless face as she rid herself of the thought. 'There is no other way. The only way to help humanity advance further is through Groudon's power'. The pink-haired girl thought to herself, certain that their way to accomplish their goals was the only way how to do it.

(Meanwhile with Sorrel and Brock/ play 01 - Mobile Suit Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphan ~ MS Gundam IBO (OST I)

Back with Sorrel, Brock, Lucario, Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh, their battle against the Team Aqua squad led by Matt has only intensified. Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh had been scattered all over the place, surrounded by the remaining Walrein, Crawdaunt and Tentacruel. Lucario was the only one not surrounded, instead the Aura Pokémon was standing across Matt's Azumarill with the two opponents having a stare off with each other.

Sorrel and Brock stood back-to-back with one another, watching each other's backs as they provided their Pokémon commands against these many opponents. The Team Aqua grunts were standing on small hills that allowed them to overlook the lower levels that Sorrel and Brock were standing on. The mystery girl was standing beside a male Team Aqua grunt on a small hill as well. Matt was standing on the highest mountain, glaring down at Sorrel with teeth harshly gritting against each other. He then gave out a roar and punched the air with his right fist.

"Attack! Show no mercy to these kids and make them regret ever getting in our way!" The muscular man commanded the grunts with a harsh voice, wanting nothing more than to choke the life out of Sorrel personally. All of the Team Aqua grunts let out rallying cries to their commander's command, while the mystery woman glanced up at Matt with narrowed eyes. 'They got in our way because you gave in to their taunting, you big headed imbecile'. The young girl thought to herself, before looking down the hill again.

"Marshtomp, use Mud Shot on the Tentacruel!" Brock commanded, throwing his left hand out to the side. "Marsh!" The Mud Fish Pokémon cried out, opening his mouth and firing multiple small balls of mud at multiple Tentacruel. Some of them struck, covering the Tentacruels that were hit in mud, while others dodged Mud Shot. "Bouffalant, charge through with Smart Strike!" Sorrel commanded, slamming both fists against one another before throwing them out forward. Bouffalant gave out a powerful cry as its horns began glowing white.

The Normal type roared out, before charging forward in a bull-like fashion, charging right through Crawdaunt first, then a Tentacruel and right into a Walrein, knocking the first two into the air and slamming into the last one, knocking the Ice Break Pokémon to the ground on its back. "Marshtomp!" Marchstomp praised the Bash Buffalo Pokémon, grabbing Bouffalant's attention as it looked over to the Water and Ground type and gave a grin. "Bou-bou-bouffalant". The Normal type thanked the Mudfish Pokémon as its horn ceased its glowing.

"Druddigon, Hone Claws!" Brock commanded, rearing his right fist up and holding the left hand into the air. "Druddigon!" The Dragon type roared, holding out its hands as its claws extend and began to glow red. An orange glow then shoots up along Druddigon's body, increasing its power. "Nice! Now, Dragon Claw!" The former Gym Leader called out, thrusting out the right fist. "Drud druddigon!" Druddigon cried out as the orange glow disappeared, before a light-green aura formed around each of Druddigon's claws and they turn into a claw-like shape.

The Dragon type crouched down, before shooting forward and swung its claws out, dealing direct hits on a Crawdaunt and Tentacruel. The two slammed down on the ground on their backs, swirls in their eyes while Druddigon continued on to its next target. Meanwhile with Bagon, the Rock Head Pokémon was biting down on a single Tentacruel's tentacle that was trying to pull it free from the Dragon type's mouth. "Double-Edge!/ Crabhammer!" Two nameless Team Aqua grunts commanded a Walrein and Crawdaunt at the same time.

A Walrein became surrounded in streaks of white aura as it charged towards Bagon, while a Crawdaunt leaped towards the Dragon type with water surging around its right pincer. "Bagon, use that Tentacruel". Sorrel commanded with a calm voice and both arms crossed. "Bagon!" The Rock Head Pokémon growled out, then showed its rather remarkable strength as it lifted the Tentacruel off of the ground and into the air. The Water and Poison type cried in surprise as Bagon swung into the Tentacruel into the approaching Crawdaunt from the side, running its concentrate as Crabhammer dispersed. But Bagon wasn't don yet as it turned around, pulling both Tentacruel and Crawdaunt, and threw the two towards the Walrein surrounded in streaks of white aura.

"Wal!?" The Ice Break Pokémon cried out in shock, right before Tentacruel and Crawdaunt slammed into it with the force of the two canceling Double-Edge as the streaks of white aura disappeared. Three were sent flying and crashing into the ground. Sorrel's eyes widened as he reared his right hand up, before swiping it down and forward. "Now Bagon, Dragon Breath go!" The Veilstone boy commanded the Dragon type. "Bagon ba!" The Rock Head Pokémon roared out, and then breathed out a light blue beam at the three Water types. Dragon Breath struck and caused an explosion that covered Walrein, Tentacruel and Crawdaunt from view.

Meanwhile with Throh, the Judo Pokémon was currently having a contest of strength against both a Tentacruel and Crawdaunt. Throh was holding on tight to a Tentacruel's tentacle that was glowing a violet colour with its left hand and doing the same with a water surging right pincer of Crawdaunt with the right hand. The two Water types were trying to hit the Fighting type with Poison Jab and Crabhammer, but Throh was holding them back with his incredible strength. However, the Judo Pokémon was starting to show signs of it being overpowered by Tentacruel and Crawdaunt as their attacks were slowly drawing closer.

Brock took notice of his Fighting type's dilemma and sought to aid Throh. "Throh, use Strength to overpower them!" The former Gym Leader exclaimed, grabbing Throh's attention as it looked through the corner of its left eye towards Brock. "Throh". The Judo Pokémon responded with a nod of its head, before shifting its attention to its two opponents. Throh's body then became surrounded in a light blue aura as its muscles began to grow larger. With its newfound strength, Throh completely stopped Poison Jab and Crabhammer from drawing closer, much to the surprise of Crawdaunt and Tentacruel.

The surprises weren't over yet as the Judo Pokémon spun around, lifted Crawdaunt and Tentacruel off the ground and slammed them down hard in front of himself. Brock gave a pleased laugh at seeing this. "Haha, nice work!" The Pokémon Breeder praised the Judo Pokémon, receiving a smile from Throh at his paise. However, Throh's smile left as a Walrein with streaks of white aura around it slammed into the Normal type's side from the right, pushing the Fighting type back and making him grith his teeth.

"Stay strong, Throh! Use Fire Punch!" Brock called out, pointing forward with his right hand's index finger. Throh cried out in response as it held up its right fist as it was engulfed in orange-red flames. Throh then thrust his fist forward past the white streaks of energy surrounding Walren and slammed its fist into the Ice Break Pokémon's left cheek. The force of Fire Punch proved to be powerful as Walrein ceased using Double-Edge, before shooting out like a missile and slammed into a nearby boulder, kicking up a bit of dust that covered it from view.

Finally, with Lucario, the Aura Pokémon was currently on the defensive as its opponent; Azumarill was trying to land a hit on Lucario with Brick Break. The Aqua Mouse Pokémon's hands were glowing bluish white as it continuously swiped them at Lucario, yet kept on missing as the Fighting and Steel type kept moving backwards and skillfully dodging the attacks. Matt was growling in anger at seeing this, while Sorrel, who had turned to watch his partner, had a smug grin on his face. "Stupid wolf is quick on its feet, but that won't stop me from winning! Azumarill, Mud Shot!" The Admin of Team Aqua commanded, thrusting his right fist into the air dramatically.

"Azu!" The Water and Fairy type responded to its trainer, ceasing its assault on Lucario as his arms lost its bluish white glow. Azumarill then leaped into the sky away from the Aura Pokémon, opening his mouth and firing multiple small balls of mud down towards Lucario. The Aura Pokémon raised its head to look at the approaching Mud Shot attack, before raising both arms and crossed them over each other in a shield. Lucario was then struck by several small bits of mud, causing him to flinch and cry out in pain, before leaping away to dodge the rest of Mud Shot.

Lucario landed 5 feet in front of Sorrel and brought its arms down. The Veilstone boy narrowed his eyes at Lucario, before turning his head to look at his surroundings. Despite the time and hard battling he, Brock and their Pokémon have done so far, they were still surrounded on all sides by Team Aqua and it didn't look like that was gonna change any time soon. 'We're wasting time here! No matter how many we defeat, they'll just send in more and eventually our Pokémon will get exhausted. And something tells me that this isn't even their full force'. The Pokémon Professor in training thought to himself, before turning his head to face forward.

He then looked through the corner of his right eye to his right wrist, where the Mega metal wristband with the Key Stone was. Sorrel's eyes then shifted towards Lucario, then back to where the metal wristband was and proceeded to redo the action several times. '...Maybe, just maybe that could work. But it's still a work in progress, there's no telling if it'll actually work or not. And the worst-case scenario is that Lucario uses up all of his energy on a failed attack. Is it really worth the risk?' Sorrel questioned inside of his mind, going over the options he has and which one was the best for this situation.

Sorrel then felt a familiar gaze on him. He lifted his head up and saw that it was Lucario looking at him over its right shoulder. The Aura Pokémon then opened its mouth and spoke, but instead of its usual cry, actual words came out. 'It's too late to be having self-doubts now. Our path forward is clear, we just need to brave through it'. Lucario told his best friend, getting Sorrel to widen his eyes in surprise. Sorrel's gaze then returned to normal, but he now had a confident smirk on his face as he nodded to Lucario. 'You're right, doubting myself isn't my style. Let's do this old friend'. The Pokémon Professor in training thought to himself, before he slowly began to lift his right hand up.

(Music end/ Play Pokemon 2019 OST: Satoshi and Go)

He held his right hand up in front of himself. He brought up his left hand up and pulled the sleeve of the green shirt back to reveal a silver metal wristband with a Key Stone attached to it on his wrist. Sorrel light taped the Key Stone with his left hand's index finger, causing it to let out a powerful burst of energy and rainbow flash, followed by four streams of energy shooting out. "Let your blazing aura of our bond surge through your fists of steel and strike down any foes that stand in our path! Lucario Mega Evolve!" The Veilstone boy chanted as he reared his right fist down, before thrusting it into the air.

Lucario let out a small growl, spreading his legs out and slightly held both arms out. Then, the Lucarionite Mega Stone floated down out of nowhere in front of Lucario, lightly glowing an orange colour. The Mega Stone released a flash of energy as Lucario let out a loud howl, before four light blue streams of energy came out of the Lucarionite. The eight streams of energy connected with each other, as if connecting Sorrel and Lucario with one another with the Aura Pokémon glowing a bright pink colour as it Mega Evolved.

First, Lucario thrust his right paw out as he gained another spike, the four black appendages grew larger, its tail disappeared, and its cream fur becomes longer. In the middle of its transformation, Lucario spun around and reared up its hands before swiping them down in a pose as the pink coloured light disappeared to reveal Mega Lucario with the Mega Evolution symbol briefly appearing in front of the Aura Pokémon.

The Mega Evolution caught the attention of everyone as they stopped battling to witness it happen. The Team Aqua grunts gasped in disbelief, while their Pokémon stared with stunned expressions. Brock, Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh all grinned at the sight as it meant that Sorrel and Lucario weren't playing around anymore. The mystery woman let out a low, impressed whistle at witnessing Lucario's Mega Evolution. 'Well, I'll be an Aipom's aunt. That kid's friend has his own Key Stone and Mega Stone too. I wonder if any more of them have those as well'. The young girl thought to herself, her fascination with Ash and his friends growing much larger than before.

Matt had a face of pure dread as he took a step back. Unlike his grunts, the admin of Team Aqua knew exactly what he just saw as he's seen the same thing happen with Archie and his Sharpedo. Mega Evolution, a truly remarkable power that only Archie possessed in Team Aqua. And according to reports they have of their enemy; Maxie was the only one in Team Magma that possessed Mega Evolution as well. So, seeing it here in the hands of a young boy such as Sorrel was truly shocking to Matt. "...How...? How can you possess Mega Evolution?" The Admin of Team Aqua questioned the Veilstone boy with a rather shaken voice.

Instead of giving an answer, Sorrel just smirked confidently as he held up his left fist. "No turning back now! Lucario, max aura!" Sorrel exclaimed, bringing both hands together as if there was something in between them, and then thrust them up into the air. Mega Lucario released a powerful roar that released shockwaves, before crouching down with its right hand on the ground, and then leaped up high into the air. Once high enough, Lucario seemed to be floating in the air as it looked down below at all of Team Aqua's Pokémon staring up at him.

The Aura Pokémon raised its hands up towards the air as dark blue energy surged in between them, as if Lucario was preparing an Aura Sphere, but was putting more aura energy into it. Sorrel gave a small grin at seeing the move working out perfectly, and knew the last thing needed for his partner to attack was his command. "LUCARIO! AURA STORM!" The Pokémon Professor in training shouted out to the heavens, giving the commanded to attack. "RRRRRAAAAAHHHHH!" Mega Lucario roared, thrusting its hands down towards Azumarill and unleashed a massively powerful blue beam of Aura.

Aura Storm came right down on Azumarill and struck the ground hard, engulfing the Aqua Mouse Pokémon and kicking up debris. Mega Lucario wasn't done yet however as he began redirect the beam of aura towards the other Pokémon of Team Aqua. Aura Storm moved as Lucario willed, leaving a canyon as it moved, also revealing an unconscious Azumarill lying down on its back with swirly eyes. Aura Storm began tearing through all the Crawdaunts, Walreins and Tentacruels, engulfing them before leaving them unconscious on the ground.

Almost everyone was too stunned to move as they watched this incredible display of Aura power as it single handily defeated Team Aqua's Pokémon one by one. The only one not stunned was Sorrel as he was watching with an expression of awe on his face, coat blowing in the strong breeze. Eventually, Aqua Storm came down on the last Pokémon of Team Aqua, which was a Walrein, before the blue beam of aura finally died down, leaving an unconscious Ice Break Pokémon. Lucario back flipped as he fell, safely landing on the ground on its feet, before falling to its right knee.

(Music end)

The Mega Evolved Pokémon began breathing heavily as it rested its left hand on the left knee, and right hand on the ground. Sorrel gasped at seeing Lucario exhausted. "Lucario!" The Veilstone boy exclaimed, before running over to the Aura Pokémon and knelt down beside him on his right. "Are you alright? Here, have this Oran Berry. It'll restore some of your energy". Sorrel said to Lucario as he held up an Oran Berry with his right hand. Mega Lucario slightly turned to look at Sorrel, before giving a grateful smile at the young boy. "Rrraaa". The Fighting and Steel type thanked the boy as he took the Oren Berry with his right paw, before eating it whole in one bite.

While Sorrel treated Mega Lucario, Brock and the other Pokémon gathered behind the two partners. Meanwhile with Matt and his Team Aqua grunts, they all now had expressions that are a mix of disbelief and terror at how they were all wiped out. The mystery girl had wide eyes of surprise at witnessing Aura Storm as well, having never seen anything like it before. 'Whoa... Now that was something you don't see every day. Looks like that black haired kid isn't the only one that isn't ordinary'. The female thought, growing an interest in Sorrel now.

Mega Lucario finished chewing the Oran Berry and swallowed. A light green aura briefly appeared over him, restoring a bit of Lucario's energy, before he got up on his feet and stood tall. Sorrel gave a small smile of relief at seeing his partner back on its feet, and then proceeded to stand up himself. "Sorrel, that was amazing! What was that move Lucario used?" Brock questioned the Veilstone boy with an amazed voice. Sorrel and Mega Lucario turned and saw an amazed expression not just on Brock's face, but on the faces of Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh as well.

Sorrel and Lucario chuckled as they shared a look, before looking back at their friends. "We'll explain later, right now we need to head on ahead and see what Team Aqua's planning". The Veilstone boy told the Pokémon Breeder, wanting to press on and see what was further ahead. Brock dropped his amazed expression, replacing it with a serious one and nodded to Sorrel. "Alright, but what about Ash and the others?" Brock questioned once more as Sorrel and Lucario turned to face forward. "I wouldn't worry about them. Ash and Verity have their own secret weapons if things go sideways". The Pokémon Professor in training answered the older male.

Brock instantly knew what Sorrel meant. Ash's Z-Power Ring and Verity's Suicune. Brock's mind felt more at ease as he nodded to the back of Sorrel's head. "I'll take your word for it". The former Gym Leader told the young boy, placing his trust in Sorrel's words. "That's good to hear. Come on, let's roll". The Pokémon Professor in training said out loud, before he took off running, followed by Mega Lucario, Brock, Bouffalant, Bagon, Marshtomp, Druddigon and Throh. The grunts of Team Aqua made no move to stop them, still in disbelief at their defeat with some of them falling to their knees.

Even Matt himself collapsed to his knees, staring up at the sky above with wide eyes. "...How...how could we have lost to a bunch of kids?" The Admin of Team Aqua questioned with a low voice, before slamming both fists down hard on the ground. His disbelief expression was gone as he was gritting his teeth hard with a vein popping. "This can't be happening! I refuse to let it happen!" The muscular man exclaimed in anger and hatred, before climbing up on his feet. He looked at the defeated Team Aqua grunts and began shouting at them.

"Snap out of you, all of you! We're Team Aqua, we can't let a bunch of kids beat us!" Matt yelled, getting all the grunts to flinch at his loud voice. As the Admin of Team Aqua continued to shot at his subordinates, the mystery girl looked up towards the sky and placed both hands on her hips. 'Hmmm, perhaps that kid and his friends can help me with my goal. Maybe there's no need to use Team Aqua and Kyogre'. The young girl thought to herself as she placed both hands on her hips. She would continue to be buried in her thoughts, until Matt and the squad went after the gang.

(At the top of Mt. Chimney)

Back at Mt. Chimney's summit where the main forces of Team Magma and Aqua were battling, the battle was still going on. The battle has only intensified as both sides had lost Pokémon. Team Magma's Golbat have all been defeated, same with Team Aqua's Crawdaunt. Even the Admins have lost one of their Pokémon as well. Tabitha lost his Torkoal, Shelly her Walrein, Blaise's Armaldo and Amber's Shedinja. The only Pokémon that are left were the grunts' Mightyena, Houndoom, Walrein and Tentacruel, Tabitha's Mightyena, Shelly's Vibrava, Blaise's Slugma and Amber's Gorebyss. Unlike their subordinates, Maxie and Archie were still battling with their Golbat and Huntail.

Huntail roared, facing up at the skies at Crobat. It then opened its mouth, forming a ball of light blue energy in front of it. It then fired light blue beams of energy from the ball at the Poison and Flying type. "Cro!" Crobat crowed as it dodged the Ice Beam attack, before a ball of purple rings of energy appearing in front of its mouth. It then fired a beam of purple rings of energy down towards Huntail, something that the Water type floated out of the way to dodge. Maxie narrowed his eyes in annoyance at seeing Dark Pulse miss, while Archie just chuckled darkly.

"I have to admit, it's been a long time since I've enjoyed myself like this. I should get out of the base more often". The leader of Team Aqua said with an exhilarated voice as he's truly enjoyed himself. "I'd wish for nothing more than for you to stay at your base and stay out of my way". Maxie said with a cold glare, causing Archie to chuckle again. Maxie then looked through the corner of his left eye towards where a single one of his grunts were battling a Team Aqua grunt.

"Houndoom, Flamethrower!" The nameless male Team Magma grunt commanded the Dark Pokémon that was under his command. The Houndoom snarled as it unleashed a stream of orange-red flames from its mouth at its opponent; a Tentacruel. "Dodge and use Hydro Pump!" The female Team Aqua grunt commanded, swiping her right hand out to the side. "Tentacruel". The Water and Poison type groaned out as it leaped into the air to dodge the stream of flames that ended up striking the ground and blasted a powerful jet of water from underneath the large blue stinger on its face.

Hydro Pump landed a direct hit on Houndoom's head, slamming the Fire and Dark type on the ground hard. The jet of water then died down to reveal Houndoom having swirly eyes with its tongue sticking out, a sign that it can no longer battle. The Team Magma grunt gasped at seeing his Houndoom unable to battle, while the female Team Aqua grunt grinned as the Tentacruel landed in front of her.

Maxie's eyes slightly narrowed at seeing another one of his grunts defeated. 'Team Aqua holds the advantage when it comes to Pokémon types, something that the weaker and less experience members of my organization have trouble against greatly'. The red-haired man thought as he watched the Team Magma grunt return his defeated Hoomdoom to its Poké Ball. "Mightyena, Hyper Beam!" A familiar voice cried out, immediately grabbing Maxie's attention as he looked over to where his right-hand man; Tabitha was battling Shelly.

Tabitha's Mightyena howled, before an orange ball of energy appeared in front of Mightyena's mouth. It then a beam of energy from the ball towards Vibrava and landed a direct hit on the Vibration Pokémon's stomach, landing a powerful hit. Vibrava cried out in pain from the powerful attack, while Shelly gasped. "Vibrava, no!" The black-haired female cried out as the Dragon and Ground type fell from the sky and crashed on its back. Shelly looked down at her Pokémon and saw swirls in Vibrava's eyes, a sign that it can no longer battle.

Tabitha burst out laughing at seeing Shelly's Vibration Pokémon defeated, while Mightyena howled out in victory. Maxie grew a small, almost unnoticeable smile at seeing this as Shelly recalled her defeated Pokémon. 'However, it is exactly this reason that makes Team Aqua overconfident, something that our more skilled members take advantage of. They have the advantage, but we are more skilled'. The leader of Team Magma thought, pointing out one of Team Magma's advantages over Team Aqua. He then faced forward towards Archie and narrowed his eyes.

Just as he was about to issue a command for Crobat, he was stopped by a voice calling out to him. "Leader Maxie, sir!" A male voice called out, grabbing the attention of not just Maxie, but Archie, Crobat and Huntail as they all looked over to see a squad of Team Magma grunts with Mightyena and Golbat heading towards their leader. Maxie's eyes slightly widen upon spotting the Meteorite in the lead Team Magma male grunt's hands. "The Meteorite..." Maxie whispered in surprise as the squad and their Pokémon stopped 10 feet before him.

The male grunt stepped forward and held the Meteorite out towards his leader. "Sir! We've successfully retrieved the Meteorite!" The nameless member reported to Maxie with his expression returning to a normal expressionless face. Maxie raised an eyebrow at the grunt, while Archie gritted his teeth at seeing the prize in Team Magma's hands. "Where is Courtney?" Maxie questioned the grunt, wondering where the young girl was and why she wasn't delivering the Meteorite to him. "Commander Courtney stayed behind to engage a young trainer with a Pikachu". The male grunt answered the red-haired man.

Maxie raised an eyebrow at the grunt's words as he immediately had a suspect on who he was describing. 'Does he mean that boy from Meteor Falls? No, it must be a coincidence, it's highly unlikely that he would be here at the exact time that we are. I suppose it doesn't matter as I have what we came here for'. The leader of Team Magma thought, before reaching out with both hands and took the Meteorite from the male grunt. "...Well done, all of you". Maxie praised A squad for retrieving their prize. The grunts all immediately bowed their heads to their leader, while the Mightyena bowed their heads and Golbats just kept flying above.

Maxie turned to look at Archie and saw his nemesis glaring at him with teeth harshly gritted against one another. As he opened his mouth to speak, someone else beat him to it. "Hold it right there!" A young, female voice called out, grabbing the attention of Maxie, Archie, the grunts and their Pokémon as they all looked in the direction that the voice came from. They all saw Verity, May, Max, Professor Cozmo and Piplup standing at the edge of a mountain overlooking the whole battlefield. Piplup was standing right beside her trainer, while Jirachi floated beside to Max.

All of their eyes were locked on the Meteorite in Maxie's hands, all six of them frowning at the leader of Team Magma. "That Meteorite isn't yours!" May cried out to Maxie with a loud enough voice for him to hear. "Give that back now!" Professor Cozmo demanded the return of the Meteorite. Max didn't say anything, instead chose to look across the battle between the two organizations and gave a small gulp.

"Man... that's a lot of fully evolved Pokémon". The Petalburg boy remarked, before both he and Jirachi winced at seeing a Mightyena land a powerful Iron Tail attack right on a Walrein's face. 'Not to mention strong looking'. The Wish Pokémon added in, wincing once more from seeing a Tentacruel stab a Poison Jab into a Houndoom.

Maxie's eyes were slightly wide at seeing the six, before returning to normal. He recognized them all from Meteor Falls, and knew that Verity, May and Max were friends with the boy that stood against him. 'If those two are here, then that must mean that the boy is truly here. Does he really intend to defy us?' The red-haired man thought to himself, before turning his back on them and looked towards Tabitha. "Tabitha". Maxie called, grabbing the attention of both Tabitha and his Mightyena as they turned to look at the leader of Team Magma.

"Sir!" The Admin responded, ready for whatever command Maxie gives. "Deal with those kids and be on the lookout for the boy with the Pikachu". Maxie told his right-hand man, then turned around and began walking off with the Meteorite in hand and Crobat flying close by. "Understood". The Admin of Team Magma replied, before he turned to look up towards Verity, May, Max, Professor Cozmo, Piplup and Jirachi. He then thrust the right hand out towards them with the index finger out. "Mightyena, Hyper Beam!" Tabitha commanded with his eyes narrowed dangerously.

Tabitha's Mightyena turned to look up at the six and let out a howl. It then opened its mouth as an orange ball of energy appeared in front of it, something that made Max and Jirachi widen their eyes in panic. "Uh-oh, here comes a Hyper Beam attack!" The Petalburg boy exclaimed in panic at seeing they were targeted by one of the most powerful Normal type moves. "I've got this!" Verity remarked, swiping her right hand out with a shrunken Heal Ball in hand. She taped on the center, causing the ball to enlarge. "Gardevoir, Teleport us down!" The Twinleaf girl cried out and tossed the device forward.

The Heal Ball soared through the air, before bursting open and released a bluish white beam that went down and struck the ground on the same level as the Team Magma members. The beam took shape, before clearing to reveal the shiny Gardevoir with a sparkle briefly around it, before disappearing. "Gardevoir!" The Embrace Pokémon cried out, right before Mightyena unleashed a beam from the ball of energy in its mouth towards Verity, May, Max, Professor Cozmo, Piplup and Jirachi. "Gar..." The Psychic and Fairy type said softly as she brought up her arms to the sides of the horn on its chest.

Suddenly, the bodies of Verity, May, Max, Professor Cozmo, Piplup and Jirachi began to glow multicolored, becoming outlined in light blue colours right before they all teleported, right as Hyper Beam struck where they were. Six multicolored colours appeared around Gardevoir, before they all cleared to reveal the six unharmed forms of Gardevoir's trainer and the others.

Max and Jirachi both turned to look up the mountain they were just at and saw smoke created from the explosion up there. "I'm starting to think we should always have a Pokémon to use Teleport to get us out of sticky situations like that". The young boy remarked with a small shiver at the thought of actually getting hit by Hyper Beam.

Jirachi gave a nod of agreement to what his best friend said, while Verity glared towards Tabitha. "If you think you can just blow us away so easily, you've got another thing coming! Gardevoir, Thunderbolt go!" Verity commanded, thrusting her right hand out. "Gardevoir!" Gardevoir exclaimed, releasing a powerful bolt of yellow electricity from its body at Tabitha's Mightyena.

Thunderbolt landed a direct hit, causing Mightyena to shut its eyes in pain as the attack was powerful. "Mightyena!" Tabitha cried out in concern with wide eyes for the Dark type. Thunderbolt then dispersed, leaving Mightyena with its head low and sparks of electricity sparking around it.

One of the male Team Magma grunts of A squad gritted his teeth in anger at seeing this. He then looked towards Verity and pointed his right hand at her. "You'll pay for that, kid! Golbat, Air Cutter!" The nameless member of Team Magma commanded his Golbat to attack. The Flying and Poison type screeched as it released light blue 'S'-shaped energy disks from its mouth towards Verity. The tomboyish girl widened her eyes in alarm, while Piplup jumped in front of Verity and glared up at the energy disks approaching, ready to defend her trainer.

But it appeared that Piplup wouldn't need to, as May brought out an enlarged Quick Ball with her right hand. "Watch out Verity! Klefki, Light Screen!" The brunette called out, rearing her right hand back and then tossed the device out. The Quick Ball opened and fired a white beam that took shape in front of Verity and Piplup, before clearing to reveal May's newest Pokémon; Klefki. "Klef-ki!" The Iron and Fairy type squealed as a wall of hexagonal shapes appeared in front of it. The energy blades struck the hexagonal wall, yet disintegrated when they came into contact.

The Team Magma grunt gasped in surprise at seeing this, while Verity gave her fellow Pokémon Coordinator a grin. "Haha! Nice one, May!" Verity praised the brunette, getting a joyful laugh from the brunette in return. Max turned to look at Professor Cozmo with a slightly serious expression. "Professor Cozmo, please stay back. My sister and Verity will make sure nothing will happen to us". The young boy said to the older male, catching Cozmo's attention as he looked at the boy and shook his head at him. "Unfortunately, I can't do that Max". The professor told the boy as he stepped forward.

Cozmo then reached into his jacket with his right hand. He pulled his hand back, revealing to be holding an enlarged Poké Ball now. "Unlike back in Meteor Falls, I won't stand by as you all fight. This time, I'll fight with you! Go, Solrock!" Professor Cozmo called out, tossing the device out. The Poké Ball burst open and released a white beam into the air that took shape, before clearing to reveal a Solrock. "Solrock!" The Rock and Psychic type exclaimed, catching the attention of Verity, May, Piplup, Gardevoir and Klefki. They all turned to look at the Meteorite Pokémon, just as Professor Cozmo issued a command.

"Solrock Sandstorm attack, go!" The 40-year-old male commanded, swiping his open right hand out. Solrock gave out a cry as it unleashed a sandstorm right at the Team Maga grunts and their Mightyena and Golbat. Sandstorm struck and pushed them all back a bit with the grunts shielding their eyes. "Professor Cozmo!?" Verity called out in surprise at his unexpected aid. "Let me help you two. You're gonna need as much as you can get". The professor requested as his Solrock close by to its trainer. "I can provide assistance, and this is proof! Meteor Beam!" Cozmo called out, throwing his right hand out.

"Solrock!" The Meteorite Pokémon exclaimed, forming a yellow ball of energy in front of its head. It then fired a yellow beam of energy from the ball forward and blasted two Mightyenas and a Golbat. All three of them collapsed to the ground with their eyes now displaying swirls, something that made the grunts commanding them, gasp in surprise. "Ohh, now that was impressive". Verity remarked with an impressed smile on her face. "Piplup pip". Piplup said in agreement. Verity then turned her head to look at Professor Cozmo and gave him a nod.

"Okay, we're counting on you". The tomboyish girl told the professor, receiving an appreciated smile from the 40-year-old man. Just then, the sparks dancing around Tabitha's Mightyena disappeared with the Dark type raising its head and roaring at Gardevoir in anger. Tabitha glared towards Verity with gritted teeth of anger. "You kids are gonna regret getting in our way". The right-hand man of Maxie growled in anger, before looking at A squad. "Send out your Houndooms and teach these punks a lesson!" Tabitha ordered the grunts, having had enough of playing around.

The A squad nodded to their commander, before turning to face the gang. They all brought out enlarged Poké Balls and tossed them out. "Go, Houndoom!" They all cried out as the devices burst open, realizing white beams that struck the ground and cleared to reveal a Houndoom horde. They all roared beside the Mightyena at Gardevoir and Klefki. The Key Ring Pokémon let out a startled cry, while Gardevoir just narrowed her eyes at the new opponents. Tabitha's Mightyena crawled forward and stopped in front its comrades, facing Gardevoir, Klefki and Solrock, out numbering them greatly.

Despite the odds against them, Verity, May, Max and Professor Cozmo didn't lose heart and instead had determined expressions. Even their Pokémon looked ready to battle. While all of this was going on, Archie watched with an expressionless face, but he was staring at Verity and her friends with fascination. "Archie!" A voice called out to the leader of Team Aqua, catching his attention as he looked left and saw Shelly running up to him. "Shelly". Archie acknowledged as the female Admin stopped beside him and turned to look towards Verity and the others.

Shelly's face displayed anger that was directed at Verity and May. "Those kids are the same ones that interfered with our plans at Meteor Falls". The female informed her leader, much to Archie's further fascination at the revelation. "Is that so?" Archie questioned with a small growing grin as he held his chin with the right hand. "You mentioned a boy with a Pikachu that defeated you and Amber with Professor Birch's son, right?" The leader of Team Aqua asked his trusted admin, catching Shelly's attention as she turned to look at him and nod. "That's correct, sir". Shelly answered instantly, growing a frown upon remembering her defeat.

"I don't see the kid with his friends, but I get the feeling that he's here somewhere". Archie said as he grew an eager grin. Truth be told, he's been interested in the world that had defeated Shelly and ruined their attempt at acquiring the Meteorite at Meteor Falls. Shelly and Amber were two of his three most skilled followers, so to hear a kid defeated one of them was interesting enough to catch his attention. "I hope he shows up soon. I'd like to battle the kid myself". The leader of Team Aqua said with anticipation, much to Shelly's surprise as she stared at her leader.

Her expression then returned to normal. "Archie sir, what are your orders? Maxie has the Meteorite and he's getting away". The black-haired female said to her leader while Archie's Huntail floated around its trainer and stopped on his right. Archie immediately narrowed his eyes at Shelly's words, before he turned to look in the direction that Maxie took off in. "If we don't stop him, Maxie will get away with our prize. After him". The leader of Team Aqua told the female, receiving a nod from Shelly while Huntail gave a rallying cry.

Just as they all turned and began heading in the direction that Team Magma's boss took off in, out of nowhere came white, arrow-shaped streams of pins and a beam of light blue electricity that blasts the Mightyena, Golbat and Houndoom. Everyone widened their eyes in surprise at the unexpected attack with the Pokémon that weren't blasted, crying out. The dust that covered Team Magma's Pokémon cleared to reveal a small number of Golbat, Mightyena and Houndoom lying down on the ground unconscious while the rest were just damaged a bit.

(Play Pokemon Anime Sound Collection- Team Rocket Motto (Hoenn Version)

A trio of laughter caught the attention of everyone, even the other grunts of Team Magma and Aqua, as they all looked up a nearby cliff. Standing right at the edge of the cliff were Jessie, James, Meowth, Cacnea and Gothita with the two humans having their arms crossed and the Scratch Cat Pokémon's hands placed at the hips. "Prepare for trouble..." Jessie began her part of the motto. "Make it double..." James continued off, starting his part of the motto.

"To protect the world from devastation!" The female adult continued, uncrossing her arms and throwing the right hand out to the side. "To unite all people within our nation!" The former rich boy continued, uncrossing his arms and throwing the left hand out to the side. "To denounce the evils of truth and love!" Jessie added as Gothita jumped onto her right hand and stood on it. "To extend our reach to the stars above!" James continued as Cacnea jumped onto his left hand and stood there.

"Jessie!" The female member called out her name proudly. "Gothita!" Jessie's Gothita cried out, throwing its hands into the air. "James!" The blue-haired male called out his name proudly as well. "Cacnea!" Cacnea exclaimed as it held up its arms in a proud manner. "Team Rocket blasts off at the speed of light!" Jessie finished her part of the motto with a proud voice. "Surrender now or prepare to fight!" James finished his part of the motto with a loud and clear voice. "Meowth, dat's right!" Meowth cried out, jumping backwards and flipping over before landing on Jessie's left shoulder and James' right shoulder. "Wobbuffet!" Wobbuffet cried out, popping out of nowhere in between the two humans and gave a salute with its right hand.

(Music end)

Tabitha narrowed his eyes in annoyance at seeing Team Rocket, remembering them perfectly from their past pathetic attempts to ruin their planes. "Oh great, it's those clowns again". The right-hand man of Maxie said with an annoyed voice as he's already got enough to deal with. Shelly narrowed her eyes at Jessie, James, Meowth and their Pokémon, while Archie just had an amused smirk displayed. "Sir, I recognize those three from our operative's report. They played a major role of ruining our operation in Rustboro City". Shelly informed her leader, much to his fascination at how so many obstacles of the past have gathered here at Mt. Chimney.

"Took those three long enough to catch up". Max remarked with a small frown as he stared up towards Team Rocket. 'Actually Max, I think they were faster than we expected to catch up with us like this'. Jirachi said to his best friend, turning to look from Team Rocket to the Petalburg boy.

"It doesn't matter how fast they were. All that matters is that they're here to help us". May told the two best friends, catching Verity's attention as she looked at the brunette through her left eye's corner. "Actually May, they're here for payback on both Team Magma and Aqua. Not to help us". Verity corrected, getting May to grumble while Professor Cozmo stared at the young trainers in confusion.

Tabitha turned to look at his grunts and saw a few of them returning the defeated Pokémon that were knocked out by Team Rocket's surprise attack. "All Golbat users, deal with those clowns. All Mightyena and Houndoom users with me, we're gonna deal with those kids". The Admin of Team Magma commanded the grunts of A squad, grabbing their attention as they and their Pokémon turned to look at them while Tabitha's Mightyena kept on growling at Gardevior. "Yes sir!" The grunts responded to their commanded, before they split in half.

One half turned to look towards Team Rocket, while the other half and Tabitha turned to look at Verity, May, Max, Professor Cozmo and their Pokémon. The Twinleaf girl and her friends readied themselves, but then Verity took notice of Archie and Shelly walking away with Archie's Huntail floating beside its trainer. Verity frowned, remembering the female Admin of Team Aqua from back in Meteor Falls, but had no knowledge of the man she's walking besides. 'Who is that guy? Could he be an Admin like her? Only one way to find out'. The Twinleaf girl thought, turning to look at her fellow Pokémon Coordinator with a serious expression.

"May!" Verity called out to the brunette, catching the brunette's attention as May turned to look at her friend. "What's up?" The Petalburg girl asked her fellow Pokémon Coordinator. Verity then gave an apologetic smile to her friend. "Sorry to do this to ya, but I'm gonna have to leave you, Max and Professor Cozmo to deal with these guys". The tomboyish girl said to the brunette, before sticking her tongue out playfully. "Say what!?" May exclaimed in comical surprise with Max, Cozmo, Jirachi, Solrock, Piplup, Gardevoir and Klefki turning to look at the Twinleaf girl for an explanation.

"Sorry that I'm doing this on short notice, but Team Magma isn't our only concern". Verity stated, before pointing her left hand towards the grunts of Team Magma and Team Aqua that had resumed their battle against each other. They all turned and saw what Verity was pointing at with Max shivering a little. "Good luck guys, I'm counting on you". Verity told her travel companions as she crouched down and picked up Piplup in her arms. Piplup stared up at her trainer in confusion as Verity stood up, before looking towards Gardevoir.

"Gardevoir, Teleport us after them!" The Twinleaf girl told the Embrace Pokémon, pointing her left hand's index finger towards the walking away forms of Archie and Shelly. The Psychic and Fairy type stared at where her trainer was pointing at, before looking at Verity and Piplup and gave them a nod. "Gar..." Gardevoir said softly as she brought up her arms to the sides of the horn on its chest. Suddenly, the bodies of Verity, Piplup and Gardevoir began to glow multicolored, becoming outlined in light blue colours right before they all teleported, leaving May, Max and Jirachi comically gaping where the Twinleaf girl was just a second ago.

Archie and Shelly walked besides one another with Huntail floating beside its trainer in the direction that they last saw Maxie walk off in. However, a multicolored colour figure appeared 5 feet in front of them, and two more ten feet away. They all cleared to reveal Verity, Piplup and Gardevoir with the Twinleaf girl still holding her starter behind the Embrace Pokémon. "Going somewhere? Not on my watch". Verity said with a small glare directed at the two members of Team Aqua. Shelly had an enraged look at the nerve of this girl standing in their way, while Archie just smirked as his Huntail floated in front of him across Gardevoir.

Back with May, Max, Professor Cozmo and their Pokémon, the Petalburg girl did not too happy with her fellow coordinator's actions. "That Verity...! Leaving us here to deal with these guys on our own! I'll get back at her for this!" The brunette said with a voice that promised she'd see through with this to get back at Verity for leaving them high and dry. Tabitha had a smirk on his face as he stared at the six opponents that stood across him and his forces. "Your friend must have had the right idea to run off like that". The Admin of Team Magma said with a mocking tone, seeing Verity leaving as a sign of her fleeing.

Max and Jirachi heard what Tabitha said about their friend and glared at him. "Verity would never run from someone like you!" The young boy snapped at the older male, causing Tabitha to glare down at him. "Looks like it's on us to take care of these guys. Okay then, let's do it". May said with a determined tone as she placed both of her hands into her fanny pack. She brought them out and held up a shrunken Poké Ball and Dive Ball. May tapped on the devices, causing them to enlarge. "Combusken! Shellos! I choose you!" The brunette cried out, before tossing the two devices into the air.

Once high enough, both the Poké Ball and Dive Ball burst open and released white beams that struck the ground in front of May. They took shapes, before clearing to reveal May's Combusken and Shellos with the two looking ready to battle. "Combusken!/ Shellos!" Combusken and Shellos cried out fiercely, while Klefki floated in between them with all three facing Team Magma's Pokémon. Professor Cozmo's Solrock soon joined them as well. The horde of Mightyena and Houndoom growled at their opponents, ready to rip them to shreds.

Meanwhile with Team Rocket; Jessie, James, Meowth, Gothita, Cacnea and Wobbuffet all stared up at the flock of Golbats flying above them. They were all screeching at them, while Team Rocket all looked confident. "Ha! They're telling us to get lost because we're not worth their time and energy". Meowth translated what the Golbat were saying, causing James to let out a good-hearted laugh. "My, oh my, looks like we're dealing with a bunch of arrogant Golbat that don't know what they're dealing with". The former rich boy said with a sly smile at all the Bat Pokémon.

"Then let's show them just who it is they're messing with". Jessie said to her teammates with a confident voice, certain that those Golbat won't be a problem. "Gothita!/ Cacnea!" Both Gothita and Cacnea cried out from their trainers' hands. "Wobbuffet!" Wobbuffet exclaimed with both hands on his hips. "Sludge Bomb!" The Team Magma Golbat half commanded the horde of Bat Pokémon. All the Golbat cried out and fired a stream of dark brown sludge from their mouths at Team Rocket. Jessie and James just chuckled at the attacks, before issuing commands of their own.

"Wobbuffet, Mirror Coat and Gothita Confusion". Jessie calmy commanded her Pokémon. "Cacnea, Pin Missile!" James ordered with a voice full of spirit unlike his teammate. "Wo-bbuffet!/ Go-go-gothita!" The two Psychic types cried out as Wobbuffet stepped forward. Gothita's eyes glow pale red and its body became outlined in pale red as well, while Wobbuffet's body becomes surrounded in a multicolored reflective aura. Some of the streams of dark brown sludge suddenly gained a red outline as they stopped, while the rest all stopped in front of Wobbuffet.

"Cacnea!" The Cactus Pokémon exclaimed, holding out his arms and firing white, arrow-shaped streams of pins. The streams of dark brown sludge changed directions and followed after Pin Missile with their target being the horde of Bat Pokémon. The Crobat cried out in frightened surprise, right before they were all hit by Pin Missile, Mirror Coat and Confusion, causing explosions that covered them from view. However, all of the Bat Pokémon fell from the smoke and crashed on the ground on their backs, swirls in their eyes.

The Team Magma grunts gasped in shock at seeing this, while Team Rocket and their Pokémon let out gleeful laughs. "They bark big, but got no bite!" Meowth laughed out as he and the rest of Team Rocket ceased laughing. "Well, now that the side dish has been taken care of... Shall we help ourselves to the main course?" James asked as they and their Pokémon turned to look at the battling forces of the two organizations.

Jessie chuckled with pure confidence in her eyes. "Yes, we shall. It's high time to get our pay back. Team Rocket, go!" The magenta hair coloured female exclaimed as she and the others leaped off of the cliff towards the two battling organizations, intending to defeat them all themselves.

With Verity, Piplup and Gardevoir, the three were still standing in the way of Archie, Shelly and Huntail with no intention to let them pass. The leader of Team Aqua crossed his arms and let out a whistle. "You've got some nerve trying to block my way, kid". Archie told the Twinleaf girl, which she stuck out her tongue at him in response. At the sight of Verity's disrespect towards her leader, Shelly let out a small angry growl at the young girl. "How dare you show such disrespect to Archie, the leader of Team Aqua!" the female admin snapped at the tomboyish girl, getting Verity and Piplup to blink in surprise.

'Leader? This guy is the leader of Team Aqua?' Verity questioned inside of her mind, before sharing a look with Piplup. The Twinleaf girl then tilted her head up to look towards Archie again. "I didn't know that you were the leader of Team Aqua, but it works for me. Tell me what your endgame is? Does Team Aqua really intend to capture Kyogre?" Verity questioned the leader of Team Aqua, seeing this as a chance to ask him personally what Team Aqua's goal was.

Archie just scoffed and waved his right hand over the shoulder. "Sorry kid, but I've got no reason to tell you. Shelly, deal with her". The leader of Team Aqua told his trusty admin, something that made Shelly grin.

(Play Digimon Adventures (2020) Theme Song: X-Treme Fight - Takayoshi Tanimoto)

"It'll be my pleasure, sir". The black-haired female replied, holding up an enlarged Poké Ball with the right hand. "Go Vibrava, Heat Wave!" Shelly cried out, rearing the hand back and then tossed the device out. The Poké Ball opened and released a white beam that cleared immediately to reveal another Vibrava. The Dragon and Ground type cried out, before flapping its wings, stirring up an orange wind. Heat Wave landed a hit on Gardevoir as the Psychic and Fairy type was using her arms to shield her eyes. Even Verity and Piplup were feeling the intense hot wind that is Heat Wave.

While the three were feeling the effects of Heat Wave, Archie and Huntail went around them and continued on their way after Maxie. "Gardevoir, use Psychic to send Heat Wave back!" Verity cried out as she held onto Piplup, hair blowing from the orange wind. "Gardevoir". The Embrace Pokémon responded, opening her eyes to reveal they were glowing light blue. The orange wind started glowing light blue as well, before it was redirected towards Vibrava. The Dragon and Ground type cried out in pain, getting Shelly to narrow her eyes in annoyance.

"Vibrava, Fly!" The female admin commanded, refusing to lose to Verity. Vibrava gave a cry, before flying up higher into the sky out of the Psychic controlled orange wind. It then began diving down towards the Embrace Pokémon with the intention to slam into her. "Like that's gonna happen! Gardevoir, Teleport to dodge!" Verity commanded, swiping her right hand out to the side, while still holding Piplup with the left one. "Gar..." Gardevoir said softly as she brought up her arms to the sides of the horn on its chest.

Suddenly, the Embrace Pokémon's body began to glow multicolored, becoming outlined in light blue colours right before she teleported with Vibrava flying through where she was just a second ago. Nearby, Gardevoir reappeared and looked up towards the air born Vibrava as it flew higher into the sky. "Psychic, go!" Verity called out with a grin. "Piplup pip!" Piplup called out in encouragement for Gardevoir. The Psychic and Fairy type hummed softly as her eyes began glowing light pink as it creates a light pink glow in front of its arms. The glow then expanded and shot forward as a wall of psychic energy up to Vibrava.

"Dragon Breath, go!" Shelly commanded, pointing her right hand's index finger out. Vibrava spun around, then released a green and yellow beam from its mouth. Dragon Breath and Psychic collided and exploded, the shockwaves causing Verity, Shelly and Piplup to cover their eyes with their arms. "This battle is far from over! Earth Power, go!" Shelly cried out, throwing her left arm that she was using to protect her eyes, to the side. Vibrava cried out, body flashing with yellow energy for a second, before flying down towards the ground.

Once it was close enough, Vibrava front flipped over and slammed its tail down on the ground, creating glowing gold cracks that travelled over to Gardevoir and went under her. The Psychic and Fairy type cried out in pain with its eyes closed in pain. "Piplup!" Piplup called out in concern for her friend. Verity gritted her teeth at seeing Shelly and Vibrava still having some fight left in them. 'Looks like we're not done just yet. Let's see what she's got'. The Twinleaf girl thought, putting all of her focus on the battle against Shelly.

Back with May, Max and Professor Cozmo, their Pokémon had begun battling against Team Magma and their Pokémon with the only exception being Jirachi. Combusken cried out, charging forward with her right arm out with the claw glowing light blue, intending to strike using Sky Uppercut. A single Mightyena snarled at the approaching Young Fowl Pokémon, before firing a Shadow Ball at her.

Instead of moving out of the way of the black and purple ball, Combusken stretched her head to the left, resulting in Shadow Ball missing its target. "Combusken!" The Fire and Fighting type howled, bringing in her glowing claw and uppercut the Mightyena under its chin, landing a super effective Sky Uppercut.

"Fire Fang, go!" A female grunt commanded, pointing towards Klefki's air born form. A single Houndoom howled as the inside of its mouth became covered in flames. It then leaped up towards Klefki, something that made the Steel and Fairy type cry out in panic. "Don't panic Klefki! Use Thunder Wave!" May called out to her Key Ring Pokémon, keeping calm and now allowing her emotions get run wild. "Klef-ki". Klefki responded, narrowing its eyes and released rings of yellow electricity at the Fire Fang using Houndoom. Immediately after passing through the rings, sparkles of electricity appeared around the Fire and Dark type.

Houndoom flinched, unable to will itself to move or focus. Klefki easily floated out of the way of Houndoom with the Dark Pokémon missing its chance to hit with Fire Fang. The Key Ring Pokémon watched its attacker fall to the ground and lowers its head as electricity continued to dance around its body. "Way to go, Klefki!" May cried out in praise to the Steel and Fairy type, getting a happy look from the Key Ring Pokémon. "Solrock, Tackle go!" Professor Comzo commanded, pointing towards the paralyzed Houndoom with his right hand.

"Sol!" The Rock and Psychic type replied to its trainer, charging forward and rammed into the Houndoom from the front, bashing it off its feet and sliding against the ground. The Dark Pokémon passed by Tabitha, who grew a frown at seeing the lack of success that his side has. "Enough of this". The right-hand man of Maxie stated, bringing out a Poké Ball. "Houndoom, Fire Blast!" Tabitha cried out, rearing his right hand over the shoulder and then tossed the Poké Ball out. The device opened and released a white beam into the air. It took shape and cleared to reveal Tabitha's own Houndoom.

The Dark Pokémon snarled, before releasing a powerful stream of red-yellow fire from its mouth at the unsuspecting Klefki. The front of the flame form into a 大-shaped blast as it drew closer to the Steel and Fairy type. Max and Jirachi saw it coming though, and they both gasped in concern. "Klefki, watch out!" The Petalburg boy cried out to the Key Ring Pokémon, catching the attention of both Klefki and May as they turned to look at him. The hexagonal wall appeared behind Klefki, right before Fire Blast slammed into it and caused an explosion with the Steel and Fairy type caught up in it.

The explosion captured May's attention as she looked up and widened her eyes in horror at seeing the explosion. "Klefki!" The brunette cried out in concern, right before Klefkie floated out of the smoke and landed on its back on the ground. May instantly knelt down and gently picked up her Key Ring Pokémon, turning Klefki around as she did so. She saw the Steel and Fairy type's eyes were swirls, indicating that it cannot battle anymore. Max, Jirachi and Shellos gathered around May, while Professor Cozmo, Solrock and Combusken continued battling against Team Magma's Pokémon.

"To be taken out with one hit with Light Screen still active, that Houndoom must be strong". May's brother commented, yet she paid him no attention as she continued to stare down at her unconscious Klefki. Laughing did caught her attention as she lifted her head up and saw Tabitha laughing. "Hahaha. Looks like you kids were over your heads all along if you thought that weakling would have been any help". The adult man said with a smirk, while his Houndoom came down and landed in front of him. May narrowed her eyes and gritted her teeth in anger at his disrespect to Klefki.

"Shellos, Water Gun!" The brunette commanded with a barely controlled voice. Shello turned its head to glare towards Houndoom, before crying out and released a spiral of water from its mouth at Houndoom. Water Gun hit, but when it died down, Houndoom was revealed to be unharmed as if Water Gun didn't do any damage whatsoever. "Huh!?" May gasped in surprise at the lack of damage dealt to the Dark Pokémon. "Water Gun is super effective against a Fire type like Houndoom, but it isn't really a powerful attack". Max commented with a hint of panic at the difference in strength between Shellos and Houndoom.

Tabitha chuckled with a smug face, while May glared at him all the, all the while still holding the unconscious form of Klefki in her hands. "Use Aura Sphere!" A familiar voice called out, catching everyone's attention. A large blue ball of energy came in out of nowhere and struck Tabitha's Houndoom from its right, causing an explosion on impact. The Dark Pokémon quickly came out of smoke, sliding across the ground on its left side a bit before stopping. Tabitha gasped in shock at seeing this, while May, Max, Jirachi and Shellos were just surprised.

"May! Max!" A familiar voice cried out to the Maple siblings, catching the attention of them, Jirachi and Shellos as they turned their heads left and saw Sorrel, Brock, Mega Lucario, Marshtomp, Bagon, Druddigon, Bouffalant and Throh running up towards them. 'Our friends are here!' Jirachi exclaimed in joy at the sight of their friends, while May and Max just smiled in relief.

Even Professor Cozmo looked over and smiled at the sight of Sorrel and the others alright. Tabitha, on the other hand, had an annoyed frown on his face as he looked at the new arrivals. "Great. Just what I need right now". The Admin of Team Magma said with annoyance leaking out of his voice.

(Music end)

Sorrel and Brock came up to their traveling companions with Mega Lucario stopping in front of them in a protective manner. The other Pokémon, on the other hand, went straight onto the attack. Marshtomp blasted a Houndoom with Water Gun, Bagon bite down hard on a Mightyena's tail, Throah used Storm Throw on another Dark Pokémon, Bouffalant charged into a Bite Pokémon. Finally, Druddigon slashed both a Houndoom and Mightyena with Dragon Claw. Combusken, who had just knocked aside a Mightyena, gave a confident smile at seeing her friends join in the battle.

Sorrel turned to face Tabitha, while Brock knelt down beside May to get a good look at Klefki. "Is Klefki gonna be alright?" May asked the Pokémon Breeder with a worried voice. After examining the Steel and Fairy type for a moment, Brock looked at the Petalburg girl and gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. Klefki's alright, just needs some rest and a potion to get better". Brock reassured the young girl, much to May's relief as she let out a sigh. Even Max and Jirachi smiled in relief at hearing Klefki was in no serious danger.

Sorrel stared past Lucario towards Tabitha with narrowed eyes, a stare that the right-hand man of Maxie returned. "You're making a big mistake standing in our way, kid". Tabitha warned the Veilstone boy, yet Sorrel didn't so much as flinch. "Funny, I was about to say the same to you". The Pokémon Professor told the Admin of Team Magma, having no intention to show any mercy. "Big talk kid. Let's see you back it up". Tabitha said as he brought up the right hand to his lips and let out a sharp whistle. Almost immediately, Tabitha's Mightyena jumped out of the battling forces and landed in front of its trainer.

The Dark type snarled at Mega Lucario, which the Aura Pokémon returned the favor. From behind Sorrel, May held up her Klefki's Quick Ball with her right hand and recalled the Steel and Fairy type. The brunette and Brock then stood up on their feet with Max and Jirachi coming up to them. The four turned to look at their traveling companion as Sorrel and Tabitha made eye contact with one another.

Just as the two trainers were about to let out a command for their Pokémon to attack, they were interrupted. "Hey! Hold it right there!" Someone called out, grabbing the attention of Sorrel, Brock, May, Max, Tabitha and their Pokémon as they turned in the direction that the voice came from.

Running towards them were Matt, followed by the Team Aqua squad under his command with the mystery girl still among them. The Admin of Team Aqua stopped 10 feet away from them with the squad stopping 3 feet behind him. Sorrel grew an annoyed frown on his face at the sight of Matt, while Tabitha raised an eyebrow at how enraged the Team Aqua Admin was.

May, Max and Jirachi all felt intimidated at the sight of the angry Matt as he greatly resembled an ox with how he was breathing in and out. "Yikes. You guys must have ticked him off so badly if he's that mad". Max commented with a shiver, and then took a gulp of air.

"Well, he's more obsessed with Sorrel than me because he lost to him". Brock informed the young boy, before looking off to the side and swiped his hand out as he gave a command to Marshtomp. "I think we should be more concerned with how there's more of them than before". May remarked, looking past Matt towards the grunts behind him. "Shell..." Shellos said with a low voice and narrowed eyes as it crawled in front of its trainer.

Matt was glaring holes at Sorrel, but then shifted his gaze towards Tabitha. "Stay out of my way! If anybody is going to crush that kid, it's gonna be ME!" The muscular man angrily exclaimed, pointing towards himself with his left hand's thumb. Tabitha hummed as he stared at Matt for a few moments, before chuckling as he turned to look at his Mightyena. "Mightyena, let them deal with this kid and his overgrown wolf". The right-hand man of Maxie told the Bite Pokémon, grabbing its attention as Mightyena turned to look at its trainer. After a moment of staring, the Dark type nodded its head and jumped back.

"Send out the Sealeo!" Matt ordered, looking over his right shoulder to the Team Aqua grunts. They all flinched, but nodded to their commanded as they brought out enlarged Poké Balls. "Go, Sealeo!" They all cried out, tossing the Poké Balls forward. The devices all opened and released white beams that shattered across the field, even in between battling Pokémon.

The beams cleared to reveal bright-blue, pinniped Pokémon. Their throat and chest are beige with speckling around the edges. There are two short tusks protruding from the upper jaw, and they had dark brown, oval eyes. The Pokémon has a powerful pair of front flippers, which are able to crush ice. Additionally, they have a short, flipper-like tail. On the sides of its blunt muzzle are thick, white whiskers. "Sealeo!" The horde of Sealeo cried out energetically, before going off into battle.

"Uh-oh! Now they've sent out a bunch of Sealeo as well!" Max called out with wide eyes, while Sorrel gritted his teeth. "We need more hands to deal with this". Brock remarked, bringing up his right hand with an enlarged Great Ball in hand. "Solrock, go!" The former Gym Leader cried out as he reared his right hand back, and then thrust it forward and threw the device out.

The Great Ball spun around in the air, before suddenly cease its spinning and burst open, releasing a bluish white beam into the air. It cleared to reveal Brock's shiny Solrock with a sparkle briefly appearing around it. "Solrock!" The shiny Rock type cried out, before flying off into the battle. Brock followed after his Solrock to keep an eye on it.

"Max! Catch!" Sorrel suddenly called out, catching the Petalburg boy off guard as he and Jirachi turned to look at the Veilstone boy, The Pokémon Professor in training tossed an enlarged Ultra and Great Balls over his left shoulder to Max, which the young boy managed to catch with both hands. The Petalburg boy and Jirachi looked at the devices and instantly knew what Pokémon they contained.

"Aerodactyl and Poliwrath?" Max said in confusion, and then turned to look at the older boy for an explanation. "Use my Pokémon to help us right! Until this is over, they're yours to use". Sorrel told the boy, keeping both eyes locked on Matt as Mega Lucario walked up in front of him.

"Huh!?" Max shouted out in surprise, while Jirachi narrowed his eyes and turned to look at the human boy. 'Max, Sorrel's trusting you to help with his Pokémon. We can't let him down!' The Wish Pokémon said to his best friend, grabbing Max's attention as he looked at Jirachi. "B-b-b-but I'm not even a trainer yet! I can't battle guys like Team Magma or Aqua like this!" The Petalburg boy complained to the mythical Pokémon, resulting in Jirachi tilting his head in confusion. 'You did it before at Meteor Falls'. The Steel and Psychic type reminded the young boy how he battled alongside Brock and Sorrel.

"That was different! I was just helping out and wasn't using someone else's Pokémon! I-!" Max began to complain further, only to be cuff off from a cry of pain. The two best friends looked over to see Bagon get bashed by a Walrein using Double-Edge, sending the Dragon type sliding against the ground on its back. Bagon grunted in pain, yet managed to get back on its feet. "Bagon bag!" The Rock Head Pokémon roared out in determination, before charging forward towards the same Walrein that landed a hit on him earlier.

'Bagon's fighting his hardest for all of us as well, even against stronger and bigger Pokémon. If he can fight like that, then so can you Max'. Jirachi said to his best friend as he held up his fists. Max was silent as he looked down at the devices in his hand for a moment or two. But soon, he lifted his head to look at Jirachi and gave a nod. "You're right, this isn't the time to be hesitating like this". The Petalburg boy said to the Wish Pokémon, causing Jirachi to grow a big smile at Max's words. Max then looked down at Sorrel's Ultra and Great Balls in his hands, before tossing them both into the air.

"Aerodactyl and Poliwrath, I choose you!" The Petalburg boy cried out, right before the two devices opened and released bluish white beams that came down on the ground. They both took shape, then cleared to reveal both Aerodactyl and Poliwrath standing on their feet beside one another with the Fossil Pokémon's wings up and spread, ready to take flight. The two cried out, catching the attention of Sorrel as he looked over his shoulder towards Aerodactyl and Poliwrath. "We need your help, you two. Follow Max's commands and help out in any way you can". The Pokémon Professor in training told the two, receiving understanding cries from Aerodactyl and Poliwrath.

Max and Jirachi smiled as Aerodactyl and Poliwrath waited for Max's commanded, but then the Petalburg boy turned to look at his sister, where he saw May and Shellos glaring right at Tabitha. Max grew worried at seeing his sister's expression as he knew that's a face May only makes when she intends to get payback. "May, I don't think it's a good idea for you to try anything with that guy". The Petalburg boy said to his sister, while Jirachi turned to look at the brunette girl and saw the expression on May's face. "That guy insulted my Pokémon, and now he's gonna regret!" May growled out with anime glowing red eyes, before she began walking towards Tabitha with Shellos crawling after her.

Max watched his sister go, before turning away and gave an exhausted sigh. "Why do I even bother sometimes?" The young boy questioned since he knew that once May had her mind set on something, there was nothing that could stop her. 'Because she's your sister'. Jirachi answered, grabbing Max's attention as he turned to look at the Wish Pokémon. After a few moments of staring, Max turned to face forward again. "...Good point". The Petalburg boy admitted, getting a happy giggle from Jirachi.

Max turned to look at Aerodactyl and Poliwrath, and saw the two looking at him over their shoulders. "Okay guys, follow me!" The Petaburg boy exclaimed, before running off in his right direction with Jirachi floating after him. "Poliwrath!" The Tadpole Pokémon cried out as it chased after the young boy. Aerodactyl began flapping its wings, lifting itself off of the ground. The Rock and Flying type cried out, circling around and flew after Max, Jirachi and Poliwrath.

Sorrel and Mega Lucario stood across Matt, both staring at the admin of Team Aqua with annoyed narrowed eyes. "Can't you just accept the fact that you lost?" The Pokémon Professor in training questioned the older male, yet only got a scoff from Matt in response. "I didn't lose! You just caught me off guard!" Matt replied as in his mind, he wasn't defeated by Sorrel since he was caught by surprise. "Keep on telling yourself that, but in reality, you're just being a sore loser". The Pokémon Professor in training said with a straight face, resulting in Matt roaring out in anger.

"I'll show you who's a loser!" The Admin of Team Aqua roared out, holding up an enlarged Great Bal with his right hand. "Go...!" He began, rearing the hand back a bit. "Manectric!" Matt finished as he tossed the device out into the air. The Great Ball spun around for a bit, before suddenly stopping and opened, releasing a white beam that went down to the ground. The beam cleared to reveal a Manectric, crouching low like it was about to pounce on something, glaring towards Mega Lucario.

"Oh, you gotta be kidding me". Sorrel groaned out at fate's strange sense of humor as he had a Manectric himself. "Flamethrower!" Matt commanded without wasting a second. The Discharge Pokémon howled out, and then unleashed a stream of orange-red flames from its mouth at Lucario, landing a direct hit on the Mega Pokémon. Lucario grunted with his eyes closed in pain as Flamethrower pushed him back a few feet, until it eventually died down. The Aura Pokémon fell to his right knee, hot air coming from the chest where Lucario was blasted with Flamethrower.

"Lucario!" Sorrel cried out in concern, Matt on the other hand was laughing crazily at seeing a successful super effective hit strike. "Who's the loser now, kid?!" Matt questioned with a mocking voice, grabbing Sorrel's attention. "Still you, and here's why". The Pokémon Professor in training answered, before swiping his right hand up as fast as lighting and pointed forward. "Lucario, Copycat!" Sorrel commanded, catching the attention of the Mega Pokémon as Lucario opened its eyes. "Rrraaa!" The Fighting and Steel type responded, right before becoming surrounded in a waving aura of light.

In Lucario's mind, he recalled how Manetric used Flamethrower, copying every detail. The color of the aura changed to a red colour, right before Mega Lucario opened its mouth and unleashed a stream of orange-red flames himself right at Manetric. The Electric type cried out in surprise with wide eyes, and then got hit by Copycat and was blasted off its feet. "What the-!?" Matt exclaimed in shock, watching his Discharge Pokémon slam right on the ground in front of him on its back.

"How do you like them apples? It'll take more than a little bit of fire to stop my Lucario!" Sorrel exclaimed strongly, bringing up his right fist and then swiped it out to the side. Mega Lucario growled, before pushing himself back onto his feet and gave a rallying cry. Matt growled angrily at the sight, before glancing down at his Manectric. "Get up! We're not done just yet!" The muscular man said in a demanding voice at the Electric type. Manectric groaned as it got back up on its feet and turned around to face Mega Lucario. Manectric and Lucario then charged towards each other, continuing the battle.

(Play Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS OP 4 (Fighter By Kana Boon)

Meanwhile as the gang did their thing, Team Rocket on the other hand enjoyed themselves as they "hunted down" both Team Magma and Aqua grunts. "Hahaha!" Meowth laughed like a child on Christmas as he leaped up into the air, before his claws came out. "Here! An entire heaping of Fury Swipes!" The Scratch Cat Pokémon exclaimed, charging forward and began shredding through the battling Walrein, Tentacruel, Mightyena and Houndoom by swiping his claws at incredible speeds. Meowth landed in a flashy way on his right knee, hands out and eyes closed while the other Pokémon all came crashing down on the ground, kicking up a bit of dust.

"Mightyena, Crunch attack!" A female Team Magma grunt commanded, holding up her left fist as she spoke. A single Mightyena cried out, opening its mouth and created a yellow aura shaped like a set of teeth, before charging towards Cacnea. "Dodge that Cacnea, and then use Needle Arm!" James called out with a confident grin, pointing forward with his right hand's index finger. "Cacnea!" The Grass type called out energetically as Mightyena drew closer, before leaping forward to the side and dodged Crunch. Cacnea's right arm began glowing white, right before the Cactus Pokémon right hooked the Dark type with a powerful Needle Arm.

"Walrein, Water Gun now!" A male Team Aqua grunt commanded an Ice Break Pokémon. "Wal...rein!" A single Walrein exclaimed, opening its mouth and firing a spiral of water towards Jessie's Gothita. "So, you like water huh? Well, why not play with it then. Gothita, Confusion go!" Jessie ordered, throwing out her open right hand forward. "Gothita!" The Fixation Pokémon cried softly, eyes glowing pale red with its body gaining a red outline. The spiral of water became outlined in pale red, and then changed directions from Gothita to Walrein.

The Confusion powered Water Gun landed a direct hit on the Ice Break Pokémon, resulting in it crying out in pain. "Like taking candy from a baby. Gothita, finish it up with Shock Wave!" The female member of Team Rocket ordered once more with a massive smile displayed on her face. "Goth-goth!" The Psychic type exclaimed as its body became surrounded in electricity and she released a beam of light blue electricity from her body at Walrein. Shock Wave landed a direct hit and zapped Walrein intensely with it crying out. The blue beam and electricity surrounding Gothita's body then died down completely.

The Walrein that Gothita zapped collapsed to the ground on its back, crashing down hard next to the Mightyena that Cacnea knocked out with Needle Arm. Both Walrein and Mightyena groaned with swirls in their eyes, while Cacnea and Gothita high fived each other with happy cries. "Ahahaha!" James and Jessie laughed, hands resting on their hips as Meowth jumped in and landed in between the two humans. "Dis is turning out to be a good day for us!" The Normal type stated with a smirk that showed just how much he was enjoying himself.

"You can say that again. Getting to beat up guys and strong Pokémon, getting more experience and payback. I'd say it's almost Christmas for us". Jessie remarked with a delighted face, enjoying this day greatly as it's proven to be an enjoyable one. "There's nothing that can make this any better". James said with a toothy grin on his face, having a good time himself.

Just then, as if something was waiting for someone to say that, both Cacnea and Gothita began to glow a bluish light colour, completely covering their features.

Jessie, James and Meowth all gasped in absolute delight at seeing this happen as they knew exactly what was happening to their Pokémon. "It looks like I was wrong. This can get better". The blue haired adult man said with a bright smile at seeing his beloved Cactus Pokémon evolving, just like his Parasect, Victreebel and Weezing did in the past. "I'm starting to think that it is Christmas!" Jessie commanded with her hands clapped together and eyes sparkling anime style. "Yeah-haaa! Cacnea and Gothita are evolving!" Meowth exclaimed as he, Jessie and James watched the phenomenon known as evolution happen to their Pokémon.

Both Cacnea and Gothita began growing, Cacnea more so than Gothita, and their bodies changing. Quickly, the bluish lights surrounding the evolving Pokemon's forms died down to reveal their new evolved stages. In Cacnea's place stood a humanoid, bipedal Pokémon that resembled a green scarecrow made of cacti. Its face had two eye holes through which yellow eyes can be seen, and six smaller holes representing a grinning mouth. It has numerous spikes along the length of its arms, legs, and around its neck. A pattern of green rhombi extended down the front of its body. It also has three small dark green rhombi. There is a triangular, dark green feature on its head that resembled a hat with spiky tips.

In Gothita's place stood a black, humanoid Pokémon with slim arms and legs. There are two round black buns on each side of its head, with a smaller drop-shaped piece hanging from each. Adorning its hair are four white bows, two on each bun. It has a pale purple face with cyan eyes and red lips. It has two white bows on its body, which flared at the bottom to form a skirt shape. "Cacturne!/ Gothorita!" The newly evolved Pokémon cried out as the green scarecrow raised its hands up, while the black humanoid one did a humble bow.

Jessie, James and Mewoth all laughed out joyfully at seeing the evolved forms of Cacnea and Gothita. "Hahaha! Bravo, truly! My Cacnea, or should I say my newly evolved Cacturne!" The former rich boy cried out with a triumphant voice. "Cac?" Cacturne said as it lowered its arms and looked at James over its left shoulder. Immediately, the blue haired male lost his joyful look and replaced it with dread as he recognized the look in Cacturne's eyes as it was one Cacturne had as a Cacnea. "Oh, good lord. Please not this again". James pleaded as he took a step back, hoping that some deity would answer his plea and that he won't experience that again.

Unfortunately for the former rich boy, his pleas were unanswered. "Cacturne!" The Scarecrow Pokémon cried out, turning around completely and jumped towards James with its arms spread out for a big hug, all the while having anime heart shaped eyes. Cacturne ended up not only wrapping its arms around James' arms and back, but it also even wrapped its legs around as well. James closed both eyes and gritted his teeth as he waited for the perhaps intensified pain of Cacturne's hugs. But after a few moments, he felt no pain whatsoever.

The former rich boy slowly opened his eyes to look at Cacturne, and saw the Scarecrow Pokémon was indeed hugging him with its eyes still anime heart shape. James blinked once in confusion, and then blinked again in realization. Unlike Cacnea, Cacturne didn't have spikes on both sides of its arms; meaning that he'll never again feel the "loving" pain of his Grass type's hugs. James' eyes turned into anime sparkling eyes, as if the greatest thing has ever happened. 'Not only has Cacnea evolved into Cacturne, but he's also lost his torture hugs. This has to be the greatest day of my live!' The blue-haired male shouted out inside of his mind, before crying anime tears of joy.

Jessie and Mewoth walked up to Gothorita, who turned around to face them. "Gothorita". The Manipulate Pokémon greeted, grabbing the edges of its skirt and bowed her head in a humble manner. Mewoth turned to look up at his teammate with a small grin. "Hey Jess, Gothita said that she's now a Gothorita and that she's thanking you". The Cat Scratch Pokémon informed Jessie, catching her attention as she looked down at Meowth for a moment, and then to her Gothorita. "You're very welcome, Gothorita. With your newly evolved powers, we're gonna rock the Hoenn Region". The long-haired woman said to the Psychic type, much to Gothorita's happiness as she smiled happily.

Unfortunately for them, the happy moment ended too soon. "Tentacruel, Poison Sting!" A female Team Aqua grunt commanded a single Jellyfish Pokémon, catching the attention of Jessie, Meowth and Gothorita. "Tentacruel!" Tentacruel cried, firing multiple purple darts from under its beak at Gothorita. The Psychic type narrowed its eyes in annoyance, before turning around completely to face the incoming attack. She began to float up in the air and closed her eyes. Three thick masses of light blue, blue, and purple energy formed in front of Gothorita's body, right before it fired the orbs forward.

The three thick masses if light blue, blue and purple energy blasted through the purple darts and onto Tentacruel, blasting the Jellyfish Pokémon and causing an explosion. Jessie laughed out in a gleeful manner at seeing this, even having her eyes closed for good measure. "Ahahaha! Not only did you evolve, even got a new move! Now that's what I call a nice added bonus". The female adult remarked with a grin, while Gothorita floated down to the ground and opened her eyes. The Psychic type turned to look at its trainer and spoke. "Gothorita gothorita". The Manipulate Pokémon told the magenta-hair coloured woman, resulting in Meowth growing an intrigued expression.

The Cat Scratch Pokémon looked up at Jessie and proceeded to explain what Gothorita said. "Gothorita said that move she just used as Psyshock, and that she replaced Confusion with it". The Normal type informed his teammate, getting Jessie to hum with a sly smile. "Well, I have no problem with it. After all, I'd say it's like an upgrade". The female Team Rocket member said with an accepting tone, not minding the loss of Confusion for Psyshock. Meowth gave a shrug of his shoulders, honestly not too bothered by her words, before running off to continue battling more Pokémon.

While Jessie was enjoying her evolved Pokémon's new powers, James on the other hand, had grown tired of Cacturne's hug. It may not be painful anymore, but it was keeping his arms in place. "Okay, I get it. You love me and I love you, but can you please let go now?" James requested from the Grass and Dark type, looking down at Cacturne's face. "Cacturne". The Scarecrow Pokémon answered as it shook its head sideways, making the former rich boy sigh. "Houndoom, Fire Fang!" A nameless male Team Magma grunt commanded, grabbing the attention of James and Cacturne.

A single Houndoom howled as the inside of its mouth became covered in flames. It started charging towards James and Cacturne. The Scarecrow Pokémon lost its lovesick expression and replaced it with an annoyed frown. "Cacturne!" Cacturne exclaimed, jumping off of James and landed 5 feet in front of him. Cacturne then held up its arms and brought its forearms together. The spikes on its arms began glowing green, before producing a green force field covered with spikes. The Houndoom came into contact with the force field, but was immediately blasted away.

The force field quickly disappeared with Cacturne holding its arms out to the sides. "Cacturne!" The Scarecrow Pokémon cried out, fists and body suddenly becoming outlined in yellow electricity. Cacturne charged forward and slammed its right fist into the Houndoom's left cheek, landing a direct hit with Thunder Punch that sent the Dark Pokémon flying. "Sweet! Great Cacturne, your new protective move is one that I wholeheartedly approve of!" James called out in praise, much to Cacturne's joy as it smiled. Cacturne then grew a serious expression as the electricity surrounding its body disappeared, before charging forward.

Meanwhile; Tabitha watched the ongoing battle between his grunts and their opponents with both arms crossed. His Mightyena stood beside him on his right, ready to act on command. The right-hand man of Maxie slightly turned his head left, now watching Professor Cozmo command his Solrock to use another Meteor Beam. "That old man is becoming an annoyance". The Admin said as if he was stating a fact. "Hold it right there!" May cried out, stopping 10 feet away from the right-hand man of Team Magma's leader. "Shell..." Shellos said softly, stopping right beside her trainer on May's left.

Tabitha and his Mightyena turned to face the brunette and her Sea Slug Pokémon, the human man growing an annoyed face as he did so. "What do you want, kid? Don't tell me it is to battle, because that would be a waste of my time". The Admin of Team Magma said with a bored voice, something that made May grow an angry frown at. "Shellos and I are here to get payback for Klefki!" The brunette exclaimed, throwing her right hand out to the side in a dramatic fashion. "Shellos!" The Water type cried out, eyes narrowed dangerously at Tabitha's Mightyena.

The Dark type didn't seem the least bit intimidated by Shellos' glare, while Tabitha looked more annoyed than before. "You can't be serious. If I took out that weakling with no problem, what makes you think another one will make any difference?" The adult man questioned the young girl, causing May's frown to grow at how he continued to disrespect her Pokémon. "You attacked Klefki from behind, that was a cowardly move! There's no way my Shellos and I could lose to someone like you!" The Petalburg girl called out with a defiant voice.

Tabitha gave another annoyed sigh with both eyes closed in an irritated manner. "Why do I have to deal with things like this?" The adult man questioned, before opening his eyes and turned to face May fully. "Alright kid, I'll give you a battle. But once this is over, you're gonna regret it". Tabitha told the young girl. Mightyena growled as it slowly came forward in front of its trainer, glaring at Shellos the whole time. May didn't respond to that, instead just narrowed her eyes while Shellos crawled in front of her. "Shellos!" Shellos cried with narrowed eyes, ready to battle Mightyena.

Mightyena roared at the Sea Slug Pokémon in a threatening manner, something that made Shellos flinch. May gritted her teeth as she recognized this to be the ability; Intimidate and that it lowered Shellos' attack power. But she paid it no mind as there was nothing she could do to get rid of its effects.

May made the first move, bringing up her left hand and then thrust it out. "Shellos, Icy Wind go!" The brunette commanded the Sea Slug Pokémon. "Shell!" Shellos shouted out, releasing a wind with light blue sparkles inside from its mouth at Mightyena. Icy Wind struck, but other than Mightyena's eyes twitching a bit, it seemed to do nothing whatsoever to the Dark type. "Was that supposed to do something? Here's a real attack. Shadow Ball!" Tabitha commanded with a growing smirk. Mightyena roared, rearing its head up and then fired black ball of energy at Shellos.

Shadow Ball pushed through Icy Wind onto Shellos, the sight made May slightly widen her eyes in panic. "Shellos, dodge!" The brunette called out with a slightly urgent voice. Shellos closed its mouth, and then leaped away right before the Shadow Ball struck the ground and exploded. "Mightyena, Iron Tail". Tabitha commanded once more, only holding out his right arm. The Bite Pokémon snarled as its tail began glowing white, before charging towards Shellos. "Stop it with Earth Power!" May ordered, holding out her open right hand.

"Shel!" The Sea Slug Pokémon cried out, its outline flashes yellow as its neck grew larger, before Shellos headbutted the ground in front of it, creating glowing gold cracks that travel towards Mightyena. Right as Earth Power was about to go under the Dark type, Mightyena leaped up into the air and dodged it. May gasped in surprise, while Tabitha just smirked. The Bite Pokémon roared as it dived down towards Shellos, before it spun around and landed a clean hit with Iron Tail. The force of the attack was powerful, a statement made clear as Shellos cried out in pain, having been blasted off of the ground.

"Shellos!" May cried out in concern for the Sea Slug Pokémon. Shellos came down hard on the ground and slid against it for a few moments, until it eventually stopped. "Now do you see what I mean? That slug's nothing but a weakling that should stay down". Tabitha said with a smug grin on his face, while Mightyena landed on the ground with its tail cease glowing. Shellos got back up, before it and May glared at the Team Magma Admin and his Bite Pokémon.

(Music end/ Play Bakugan Battle Brawlers - BGM06 (MUSIC)

As all of this was happening, Verity's battle against Shelly continued on. Right now, Vibrava was flying around Gardevoir in circles at fast speed, trying to confuse the Embrace Pokémon with how fast it was. Yet the Psychic and Fairy type wasn't even trying to follow Vibrava with her eyes, instead was just looking forward. "Piplup! Pip-lup!" Piplup cried out from Verity's arms, encouraging Gardevoir as best she could.

Shelly giggled, staring right towards Gardevoir as she thought over what approach to go with. She eventually found the one she liked the most, before pointing her right hand up to the sky. "Vibrava, use Fly to go up high, and then use Heat Wave!" Shelly commanded the Dragon and Ground type, getting a cry in response. Vibrava then flew up high into the air, and then stopped. The Dragon and Ground type then began flapping its wings, stirring up an orange wind that came down on Gardevoir.

The Embrace Pokémon looked up, right before Heat Wave struck her. "Gardevoir!" Gardevoir cried out in pain, eyes closed as she held up her arms to above her eyes in a sort of shield. Verity lightly gritted her teeth at seeing this, while Piplup gave a cry of worry for her friend. 'If this keeps up, Gardevoir will eventually run out of energy. Okay, time to go with our best resort'. The Twinleaf girl thought to herself, raising her right hand and then held it out. "Gardevoir! Use Teleport to reach Vibrava, and then use Draining Kiss!" Verity commanded, calling for the only Fairy type move that her Embrace Pokémon knows.

Gardevoir opened its eyes, slightly turning her head to look at Verity and nodded to her. "Gardevoir". The Psychic and Fairy type responded to Verity, before looking up towards Vibrava. "Gar..." Gardevoir said softly as she brought up her arms to the sides of the horn on its chest. Suddenly, the Embrace Pokémon's body began to glow multicolored, becoming outlined in light blue colours right before she teleported.

The shiny Pokémon reappeared right next to Vibrava on its left side, much to its surprise as it cried out. Before the Vibration Pokémon could act, Gardevoir leaned in and kissed Vibrava on its right side, causing it to flush bright red. Lines of light yellow waves appeared from Shelly's Dragon and Ground type, going from it to Gardevoir, draining Vibrava's energy and transferring over to Verity's Embrace Pokémon. Gardevoir's body then began to glow a faint white, with a light green glow surrounding it, a sign of being healed.

Gardevoir leaned away, before she caught Vibrava in her arms when it began to fall. Just as the Embrace Pokémon began to fall, both hers and Vibrava's bodies began to glow multicolor once more with light blue outline colours, before the two teleported. The two reappeared in between Verity and Shelly, the orange wind of Heat Wave having disappeared earlier. Verity's Embrace Pokémon got on her knees and placed Vibrava's body down on the ground gently. Shelly looked and saw swirls in the eyes of Vibrava, a sign that it can no longer battle.

The female Admin of Team Aqua gritted her teeth at seeing this, before holding out Vibrava's Poké Ball to the defeated Pokémon. "Return". She simply said, recalling the Dragon and Ground type to the device. Gardevoir stood high and tall, energy mostly restored thanks to Draining Kiss, and then looked over her left shoulder towards Verity and Piplup. "Piplup-pip! Piplup!" The Penguin Pokémon cried out in praise to Gardevoir, waving her flippers up and down. "Way to go Gardevoir". Verity praised her Embrace Pokémon, proud of it for doing its best.

Gardevoir smiled at her trainer's words, before turning to look forward at Shelly. The female adult had put away the Poké Ball that contained her defeated Vibrava, now had an enlarged Great Ball in hand. "So, you defeated my dragon. Well, let's see how you handle my snake now! Go Seviper!" Team Aqua's female Admin cried out, before tossing out the Great Ball. It soared through, before opening and released a bluish-white beam. It struck the ground and took shape, before clearing to reveal a Seviper, only this one was viler looking than Jessie's one. "Seviper!" Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon exclaimed, opening its mouth and revealing its sharp fangs.

"Ahh, man". Verity groaned at the sight of Seviper, honestly preferring to battle a different Pokémon than this one as she's battled Jessie's one too many times. "Use Gunk Shot, now!" Shelly ordered, pointing out with her right hand's index finger. "Seviper!" Shelly's Poison Snake Pokémon screeched, opening its mouth and fired multiple globs of sludge surrounded in a gold aura.

"Teleport, go!" Verity commanded, holding her right hand out to the side while keeping a hold of Piplup with the left arm. "Gar..." Gardevoir said softly as she brought up her arms to the sides of the horn on its chest. Suddenly, the Embrace Pokémon's body began to glow multicolored, becoming outlined in light blue colours right before she teleported.

Gunk Shot ended up hitting the solid ground since Gardevoir was no longer there. Shelly gave a smirk at seeing this as it was part of a strategy she came up with to deal with Gardevoir. Speaking of the Embrace Pokémon, it reappeared 10 feet away from Seviper on its right. "Gardevoir, use Psychic!" Verity commanded with a small grin, certain that one hit from Psychic will defeat the Poison type. "Gar..." Verity's Embrace Pokémon responded, before lifting her hands up with the intention to attack with Psychic. However, that moment was exactly what Shelly was waiting for.

Team Aqua's female admin laughed as she reared her right hand in, and then swiped it forward. "Seviper, Toxic!" Shelly commanded her Fang Snake Pokémon, making Verity widen her eyes in surprise. "Se...viper!" The Poison type exclaimed, turning its head to look towards Gardevoir and fires a stream of purple liquid from its mouth at her. The stream stuck a wide-eyed Gardevoir in the face, causing the Embrace Pokémon to shut its eyes in pain. Gardevoir's face gained a small purple colour, and then purple electricity danced around her body as a sign of being poisoned.

"Gardevoir!" Verity cried out with wide eyes of concern. "Piplup-pip!" Piplup added in, looking just as concerned as Verity is. Shelly laughed at seeing this, before turning her right hand into a fist. "Excellent! Now, Iron Head!" Shelly ordered her Seviper, taking this chance to go on the attack and take out the troublesome Embrace Pokémon. A jagged shiny pattern appeared on Seviper's head, before it leaped forward and rammed right into Gardevoir's stomach. Gardevoir gasped in pain with wide eyes from the super effective hit, before getting blasted away and came down crashing against the ground on her back.

Gardevoir slid against the ground a bit forcefully, but quickly ceased and stopped 3 feet in front of Verity and Piplup. The two gasped in concern, staring down at Gardevoir's face with concerned faces. "Gardevoir, can you get up?" Verity asked her Embrace Pokémon, wanting to know if she can continue or needs to be recalled. "Gardevoir". The Psychic and Fairy type answered as she attempted to sit up, but was having great difficulty thanks to the damage it took from Iron Head, and from being poisoned. Seeing Gardevoir having trouble to stand back up increased the concerns of Verity and Piplup.

Shelly continued to go on the attack without allowing a chance for Gardevoir to recover. "Seviper, finish them off with Seed Bomb!" The adult female commanded, waving her right hand's index finger around a bit. "Seviper!" Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon screeched, creating several glowing green seeds over its heads and fired them at the down Gardevoir. "Gardevoir, Thunderbolt!" Verity ordered with a hint of panic in her voice. "Gardevoir!" Gardevoir exclaimed, releasing a powerful bolt of yellow electricity from its body at Seviper.

Seed Bomb and Thunderbolt passed by one another towards their targets. The glowing green seeds connected with Gardevoir and exploded, while Thunderbolt missed its target as Seviper slithered away. "My Gardevoir!?" Verity cried out in concern for the Embrace Pokémon. "Lup-piplup!" The Water type cried out with a worried face. The smoke created from the glowing green seeds exploding cleared to reveal Gardevoir lying down on her back with swirly eyes. The defeated Embrace Pokémon groaned out her name, unable to battle anymore.

(Music end/ Play Bakugan Battle Brawlers OST - BGM 30 (COMPLETED&High Quality)

Verity lightly gritted her teeth in frustration, but wordlessly held out Gardevoir's enlarged Heal Ball and recalled her. She then looked down at the device in her right hand and gave a smile at it. "You did awesome. Just rest for now and leave the rest to us". The Twinleaf girl said to the device, as if she were speaking to Gardevoir. Verity then put it away in her pocket, before looking towards Shelly, where she saw Team Aqua's female admin standing in a confident manner with Seviper slithering in front of her. "Got anything else for me to easily handle?" Shelly questioned the younger female, making Verity smirk a bit at her.

"Yeah, right here". Verity answered, moving both her hands underneath Piplup's feet and reared them to her right side. She then gazed at the Penguin Pokémon and gave Piplup a confident smile. "Your turn now, Piplup. Go get em, tiger". The tomboyish girl told her starter, which Piplup looked at her and gave its own confident smile at Verity. "Piplup pip piplup". Verity's Water type replied to its trainer, ready to do some battling. Verity giggled at her starter, before facing forward with a smirk.

"Piplup, I chose you!" The female coordinator exclaimed, throwing both hands out and Piplup into the air forward. "Piplup!" Piplup cried out with a determined expression, going through the air towards Seviper. "This'll be easy. Seviper, Toxic go!" Shelly ordered, spinning around and then threw her right hand forward. "Se...viper!" The Poison type exclaimed, firing a stream of purple liquid from its mouth at the airborne Piplup. "That's not gonna work this time! Piplup, clear a path through with Drill Peck!" Verity commanded, rearing in the right hand and then thrust it out.

"Piplup!" The Penguin Pokémon responded, beak beginning to glow white and then spin like a drill. Piplup drilled through the purple liquid stream through Drill Peck and continued onto Seviper, landing a hit on it. Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon cried out in pain as it was pushed back a bit, while Piplup ceased spinning with her beak no longer glowing, landing on the ground in a perfect landing. "Why you little pest! Seviper, finish this quickly with Seed Bomb!" Shelly commanded with an annoyed expression displayed.

"Se...viper!" Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon screeched, creating several glowing green seeds over its heads and fired them at Piplup. "Jump back and use Ice Beam to defend!" Verity commanded, thrusting her right open hand out. "Pip…lup!" The Penguin Pokémon cried out, opening her beak as a light blue ball appeared in front of her. She then fired light blue beams from the ball at the ground, causing it to turn to ice, before she directed the blue beams up, causing the ice to grow larger. Piplup then stopped using Ice Beam as an ice wall was formed in front of her.

Seed Bomb clashed into the ice wall and exploded, yet was unable to break through it. Piplup leaped up to the wall's top and stood on it, staring down at Seviper with narrowed eyes. "Hydro Pump, go!" Verity called out, holding out her open right hand. "Piplup pip!" The Penguin Pokémon shouted out, opening her beak and released a powerful stream of water with white rings of water around it at Seviper. "Dodge that, and then attack with Iron Head!" Shelly commanded, holding out her open right hand in a dramatic style of sorts.

Seviper slithered to the right and dodged Hydro Pump, which ended up hitting the solid ground, before a jagged shiny pattern appeared on Seviper's head. It then leaped forward, up towards Piplup. "Fight back with Drill Peck!" Verity commanded, punching the air with her right fist. "Pip!" Piplup replied to her trainer, before jumping up as its beak began glowing white and spin around fast like a drill. The Penguin Pokémon changed its course and began heading down towards Seviper.

The two clashed with their attacks going against one another, resulting in Piplup and Seviper coming to a stop in mid-air, although Piplup was still spinning. Sparks of energy were conducted from the two attacks going against one another, a sign of how powerful Drill Peck and Iron Head were. Verity and Shelly gazed towards each other with narrowed eyes as neither of them were willing to lose.

(Music end)

As the battles continued, Max, Jirachi, Aerodactyl and Poliwrath had managed to regroup with Brock, Professor Cozmo and their Pokémon. The three humans, plus the Steel and Psychic type hanging on Max's head, were gathered together to watch each other's backs while their Pokémon dealt with both Team Magma and Aqua. Marshtomp, Druddigon, Throh, shiny Solrock, Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, Poliwrath, Bagon and Solrock were doing well with the commands given to them, even May's Combusken was doing well on her own.

The only problem was that the battle didn't seem to be nearing an end, and they all were getting tired physically and mentally. Max let out a slightly tired breath, facing forward and watching Bagon use Bite on a Mightyena's tail. "Guys, this just doesn't seem like it's gonna end anytime soon". The young boy said to the two older males, grabbing the attention of Brock and Cozmo as they looked down at Max. "That may seem so, but we can't give up here". Brock told Max, turning to face forward and held his right hand out.

"Solrock, Stone Edge go!" The former Gym Leader commanded his shiny Rock and Psychic type. "Solrock!" The Meteorite Pokémon exclaimed, eyes glowing white and two light blue rings appeared around its body. The rings then glow white and formed into white stones that spin around Solrock's body. The white glow then faded into gray rocks. The Meteorite Pokémon then fired the stones forward and blasted a Sealeo, Mightyena and Tentacruel. "He's right, and we still need to retrieve the Meteorite. Solrock, Gyro Ball!" Professor Comzo ordered, throwing out the right hand to the side.

Cozmo's normal coloured Meteorite Pokémon cried out, then started spinning with a brown ring surrounding its body vertically. It then spin slammed into a Tentacruel hard, knocking out the Jellyfish Pokémon with Gyro Ball. "Not to be a mood killer, but I hardly see us chasing after that Maxie guy with how occupied we are". Max said with a dishearten expression, getting Jirachi to look down at the boy with curiosity. 'Are you okay Max? What's wrong?' The Wish Pokémon asked his best friend with an innocent voice.

Max shifted his eyes up to Jirachi and opened his mouth to speak, only to stop upon catching sight of something. A single Sealeo was sneaking up on Bagon, who was to focus on the Mightyena's tail that it was biting down on. The Petalburg boy gasped in concern, before looking up into the sky towards Aerodactyl, who was flying above them. "Aerodactyl! Help Bagon with Steel Wing!" Max cried out to the Fossil Pokémon, grabbing its attention as it looked over and saw Sealeo approaching an unsuspecting Bagon.

The Rock and Flying type narrowed its eyes, before crying out as its wings began glowing a bright white colour. Aerodactyl then flew down towards the Sealeo and struck it hard with its right wing. "Sealeo!" The Water and Ice type cried out in pain from the attack, but Aerodactyl wasn't done yet as it slammed its left wing into Sealeo, giving another heaping of Steel Wing. The Ball Roll Pokémon called out in pain, catching the attention of both Bagon and Brock as they looked over.

Brock then swiped his left hand out, holding it out towards Sealeo. "Marshtomp, Rock Slide on that Sealeo!" The Pokémon Breeder ordered, catching Marshtomp's attention as it looked over. "Marshtomp!" Brock's Mud Fish yelled out with multiple gray rocks appearing in front of Marshtomp and glow white briefly. It then sent the stones flying towards Sealeo and Aerodactyl. The Rock and Flying type noticed the approaching attack, and quickly flew up into the air to safety. Sealeo, not so much as it got hit by all of the stones and crashed onto its back, groaning with swirly eyes.

Max and Jirachi threw Brock grateful looks, something that he returned with a nod. A sudden cry caught their attention as they looked to see Bouffalant get hit by a Flamethrower from a random Houndoom. Max gritted his teeth, Jirachi gasped in concern and Brock's eyes narrowed. "I have to agree with Max on one thing; there really doesn't seem like there's an end to this battle". Brock said with a deep frown, shifting his attention over to Throh and saw the Fighting type get hit with a Poison Jab from a Tentacruel.

Professor Cozmo turned his head to look at the former Gym Leader. He opened his mouth to speak when out of nowhere, a powerful bolt of yellow electricity came out of nowhere and struck multiple targets, such as Walrein, Sealeo, Houndoom and Mightyena. All of the Pokémon of Team Magma and Aqua that got hit cried out in pain, before the yellow electricity disappeared and they all collapsed to the ground. The grunts of both organizations gasped in surprise at this, some even taking a step back as that unexpected attack took out a good number of their forces. The gang and their Pokémon all stopped in their tracks, just as surprised as their opponents were.

(Play Yu Gi Oh 5Ds - Ost - Yusei Theme.)

"Pika!" A familiar voice cried out, catching everyone's attention with the gang and their Pokémon growing big smiles since they recognized that cry. Team Magma, Aqua, the gang, Professor Cozmo and all the Pokémon looked to see Ash and Pikachu running into view with the Electric Mouse on all four feet. "ASH! PIKACHU!" Verity, Sorrel, May, Max and Brock exclaimed in joy, something that their Pokémon mimicked as they were all happy to see the Rainbow Hero and his starter finally arrive. Professor Cozmo grew his own smile at the sight of the Pallet Town boy, while his Solrock stared at Ash in wonder.

Tabitha narrowed his eyes at the sight of Ash, recognizing him perfectly as the trainer that attempted to interfere with them at Oldale Town. "It's that kid again. Talk about a pain in the neck". The adult man remarked, disliking the Rainbow Hero greatly due to him being an annoyance to them. Like Tabitha, Shelly was just as annoyed at Ash's appearance, still a bit sore about her defeat to him back in Meteor Falls.

Matt didn't pay the Rainbow Hero a second glance, all of his focus still on Sorrel and not on the new arrival. Blaise and Amber on the other hand, were staring at Ash with narrowed eyes. For the Admin of Team Magma, he was intrigued to see the young boy that caught Courtney's attention again. For Team Aqua's Admin, he was on guard since he knew how much of a threat the boy was from their encounter at Meteor Falls. Even the mystery girl grew a bit excited at seeing the boy that caught her interest recently. Jessie, James, Meowth, Cacturne and Gothorita, they all grinned at seeing the Rainbow Hero and Electric Mouse.

Ash and Pikachu came up in front of Brock, Cozmo, Max and Jirachi, where the Kanto resident gave them a small grin. "Sorry if I was running a bit late, how's things going?" Ash asked the four, turning his head to see Verity, Sorrel, May and their Pokémon having one on one battles against people that stuck out from the two organizations. "Well, as you can plainly see, we're outnumbered". Max answered the Rainbow Hero as the battle all around them resumed. "We're managing somehow, but they just keep on sending more Pokémon out to battle". Brock added in, turning his head and saw Druddigon bash away a Sealeo and Mightyena with two Power-Up-Punches.

"What about the Meteorite?" Ash questioned, turning to face Brock, Max and Jirachi. Instead of those three answering, it was Professor Cozmo that answered. "That man, Maxie took it. He walked away to someplace here in Mt. Chimney and we have no idea where he is". The professor informed the younger male, catching Ash's attention as he looked at him. "The leader of Team Magma?" Ash said with a raised eyebrow, before looking down in thought. He immediately remembered the man from Meteor Falls and grew a frown on his face.

The Rainbow Hero lifted his head, not minding Pikachu as the Electric Mouse climbed onto his left shoulder. "I'll go take care of him, you guys stay here and handle this. Which way did he go?" Ash questioned his friends, hoping they knew the direction that Maxie took off in. Luckily for him, Jirachi knew as he pointed his left hand out in a random direction. 'He went that way'. The Wish Pokémon answered Ash, which he and Pikachu turned to look at where Jirach was pointing. They looked back at Jirachi, nodded in thanks before Ash looked at Brock.

"Brock, here. Take this". The Kanto resident said to his old friend, tossing something at him with his right hand. Pewter City's former Gym Leader caught what Ash tossed at him with his right hand, before looking at it and saw that it was the Pokémon Box Link in capsule form. "Find an opening, use it and call Onix over. He should be able to help you guys out". Ash told the older male, catching Brock by surprise as he gasped, looking up from the capsule to the Rainbow Hero. "Hold up, Onix!?" Pewter City's former Gym Leader questioned in surprise, thinking about his first Pokémon that his father gifted him with when he became a trainer so long ago.

The Rainbow Hero nodded, before turning to look in the path that Jirachi pointed to. It was blocked by several of Team Magma and Aqua's Pokémon passing by, but it is not gonna be a problem for Ash. "Donphan, clear a path with Rollout!" Ash exclaimed, bringing out an enlarged Poké Ball with his right hand before tossing it out. The device immediately burst open and released a white beam on the ground, yet moved forward on its own. It cleared to reveal the charging form of Ash's Armor Pokémon; Donphan.

The Ground type grunted, before jumping up and curled itself into a ball and rolled down on the ground with incredible speed. Donphan bashed right through a couple of Sealeo and Houndoom, clearing a path as he continued rolling onwards. Ash and Pikachu gave one last look at their friends. "We're counting on you guys, good luck". Pallet Town's ace trainer told the four with a serious voice. "Pikachu". Pikachu added, before the Rainbow Hero faced forward and began running down the path Donphan cleared out.

Professor Comzo, Brock, Max and Jirachi watched the Rainbow Hero head out to confront Team Magma's leader. Pewter City's former Gym Leader then looked down at the capsule on his hand for a moment or two, before growing a serious face. "Can you guys cover me for a few seconds? I'm gonna need it to call my Onix over". Brock requested, grabbing the attention of Cozmo, Max and Jirachi as they all looked at him. The professor quickly nodded his head in understanding. "We'll give you as much time as we can. Just hurry". Cozmo told the younger male, which Brock nodded to him as he ran off to find some cover.

Sorrel was looking over his right shoulder, watching Ash run down the path created by Donphan, before he faced forward and focused on the battle. Mega Lucario was running around, avoiding a bolt of yellow electricity Thunderbolt that Manectric was trying to zap him with. "Hold still you annoying wolf! Manectric, Flamethrower!" Matt commanded with an annoyed voice, swiping his left hand forward. The Discharge Pokémon cried out in response as it stopped using Thunderbolt, and then breathed out a stream of orang-red flames.

"Lucario, Bone Rush!" Sorrel ordered, bringing his hands up above and together, and then down and apart. Mega Lucario stopped running and turned to face the closing in stream of fire. "Rrraaahhh!" Sorrel's Aura Pokémon cried out, putting its paws together and spread them apart, creating a light green bone of energy. The Mega Pokémon then began spinning the energy bone like a helicopter's blade. Flamethrower struck the spinning energy bone, but was getting reduced to nothing without harming Lucario.

Sorrel smirked, and Matt growled in anger. "Manectric, Bite attack!" Team Aqua's second male admin commanded his Discharge Pokémon, changing tactics to a physical approach. "Manectric!" The Electric type howled, ceasing breathing out fire and then charged forward. Mega Lucario ceased spinning Bone Rush right when Manectric leaped towards him and ended up biting the energy bone. Lucario growled in annoyance as its energy bone was reduced to green sparkles. The Discharge Pokémon continued on and bite down on Lucario's right shoulder.

The Steel and Fighting type flinched in pain. Bite may not be super effective against him, but it still dealt damage. "Hang in there! Copycat on Bite!" Sorrel ordered, thrusting out his right hand. "Rrraaa!" The Fighting and Steel type responded, right before becoming surrounded in a waving aura of light. In Lucario's mind, he recalled how Manetric used Bite, copying every detail. The color of the aura changed to a dark colour, right before Mega Lucario bite down on the right side of its mane. This time, Matt's Discharge Pokémon cried out in pain, even releasing its grip on Lucario's shoulder.

Lucario released its grip as well, before Manectric leaped away from the Steel and Fighting type. Manectric's left eye was twitching, while Lucario was breathing heavily. Sorrel took notice of his partner's exhaustion and became concerned. 'Lucario has been using a lot of energy today, it's even a miracle that he remained in his mega form after using Aura Storm. I better end this battle and heal Lucario before he gets too hurt'. The Veilstone boy thought, knowing that Lucario needed healing before he got knocked unconscious or worse.

"Go Lucario, Meteor Mash!" The Veilstone boy commanded, swiping his hand out to the side leaving a trail of light as he moved his hand. "Rrrrraaaaa!" The Aura Pokémon cried out, before its body became covered in a powerful blue coloured aura. He then reared his arms back, before the aura coat expanded until its body became covered in a blue aura. The Fighting and Steel type thrust his paws upwards towards Manectric, before leaping towards it.

"Ha, forget it! Manectric, Magnet Rise!" Matt commanded, pointing up into the air with his right hand's index finger. The Discharge Pokémon began emitting yellow sparks of electricity from its body, and then floated off of the ground. Mega Lucario missed his target and ended up hitting the ground, causing an explosion on impact. Matt chuckled darkly, while Sorrel narrowed his eyes.

The smoke created from the explosion cleared, revealing Lucario standing unharmed, but breathing heavier than before. The admin of Team Aqua smirked at seeing this. "Thunderbolt go!" Matt commanded, punching the air with his right fist. "Manectric!" Matt's Discharge Pokémon roared out, unleashing a powerful bolt of yellow electricity from its body at Lucario.

"Aura Sphere, quick!" Sorrel exclaimed, throwing his right hand out to the side. Lucario brought its paws together and created a dark blue sphere of energy, before firing it towards the bolt of yellow electricity. Aura Sphere and Thunderbolt clashed against one another, sparks of energy coming out from the two clashing attacks, before they both exploded. "Double Bone Rush, attack!" The Veilstone boy ordered, holding out his right hand with the coat blowing a bit for flare.

Mega Lucario puts its paws together and spreads them apart, creating two blue bones of energy in both paws. The Mega Pokémon then leaped into the air, through the smoke created from the two attacks clashing, and up to Manectric. The Aura Pokémon slammed its left energy bone into Manectric's right cheek first, then the right bone on the left cheek, sending Manectric crashing down to the ground. The collision kicked up a bit of dust, while Lucario fell and managed to land on its feet.

Matt gasped with wide eyes, staring down at where Manectric was lying with dust covering it from view. Lucario's energy bones disappeared, before the Aura Pokémon collapsed to its right knee. The dust cleared to reveal Manectric lying down on its right side, swirls in its eyes as a symbol of it no longer being able to battle. Team Aqua's admin began screaming out in frustration, while Sorrel breathed out in relief. An orange energy dome suddenly appeared over Lucario for over a brief second, and then disappeared to reveal the Aura Pokémon back in its normal form.

"Lucario!" Sorrel exclaimed with wide eyes of concern, before running over to his exhausted Aura Pokémon and knelt down beside him on its left. "You were magnificent out there. Here, this'll heal you". The Veilstone boy said as he held up a Full Restore with his right hand. Sorrel sprayed his Aura Pokémon with the item, causing Lucario to gleam green with energy. The Fighting and Steel type was healed completely as the green gleam disappeared.

Lucario turned to look at Sorrel and gave a thankful look to the human. "Rrraaa". The Fighting and Steel type thanked Sorrel, who just smiled as he lowered the Full Restore in his hand. "You've been through enough today, take a nice long rest". Sorrel said as he held up an enlarged Poké Ball with the left hand. Lucario looked at the device for a moment, and then looked up at his trainer in concern. The Veilstone boy gave a reassuring smile at Lucario to help calm him. "Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. For now, get some rest". Sorrel told his best friend, urging him to return to the device and rest.

Sorrel's Aura Pokémon stared for a few moments, before nodding his head to Sorrel as a sign of his answer. The Veilstone boy smiled in relief, before recalling his best friend to the Poké Ball. He turned the device over to stare at it. "Rest well, we'll handle the rest". Sorrel said as if he was speaking to Lucario itself. He put the device away in his pocket and stood up fully, shifting his gaze towards Matt. The admin of Team Aqua had already recalled Manectric, and was now stomping his right foot on the ground angrily.

"Darn it! How!? How am I losing to a 10-year-old kid!?" He questioned angrily, resulting in Sorrel growing an annoyed frown on his face. "First of all; I'm 12-years-old. And secondly; age has nothing to do with how someone raised their Pokémon. I raised my Lucario with my heart ever since we were both young, that's one of the many reasons he won against your Manectric". The Veilstone boy told the older male with a serious tone, resulting in an angry growl from Matt as he looked towards him.

"And as much as I'd love to continue this little contest between us, I've got better things to do". Sorrel told Matt, before turning around and walked off to check on his other Pokémon that were battling.

(Music end)

With Verity and Piplup's battle against Shelly and Seviper, things were at a standstill for the moment. Right now, Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon was slithering around Piplup at fast speeds to confuse the Water type. The Penguin Pokémon was constantly turning its head left and right to try to keep up with Seviper, yet was having trouble doing so.

Nearby, Verity had a deep frown and was gritting her teeth as she watched, while Shelly had a confident smirk displayed. 'This snake is really becoming a big pain in the neck. Freezing the ground probably won't help. But what can I do then?' Verity thought to herself, mentally going over her options on how to escape this predicament. Shelly laughed as she swiped her left arm forward. "Seviper, Seed Bomb go!" Team Aqua's female Admin commanded her Poison type.

"Seviper!" Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon screeched as it continued slithering around, creating several glowing green seeds over its heads and fired them towards Piplup from her left side. The Penguin Pokémon cried out in surprise as she turned to look towards the glowing green seeds, right before they struck and created an explosion. From the explosion, Piplup was sent flying into the air. crying out in pain. Verity gasped in concern, staring up towards her air born Water type flying through the air. "Piplup!" The Twinleaf girl exclaimed, before suddenly widening her eyes in realization.

'Wait a second! This could be our chance to counterattack!' The tomboyish girl shouted inside of her mind, seeing this as an opportunity to turn this battle around. "Piplup! Use the momentum to use Drill Peck!" Verity cried out, throwing her right hand out to the side. Piplup's eyes shot open to reveal a determined look inside them at Verity's command. "Pip-piplup!" The Penguin Pokémon responded, beak beginning to glow white and then began spinning like a drill. Piplup was in complete control as she redirected herself and was now diving down towards Seviper.

Shelly's Fang Snake Pokémon gave a cry of surprise and attempted to slither away, yet Piplup chased after it. The Water type seemed to be flying as she redirected herself and ascended through the air, before landing a direct hit on the back of Seviper's neck. Shelly's Poison type exclaimed in pain, both eyes closed as the force from Drill Peck pushed it off the ground and sent it crashing down a few feet away. "Seviper!" Shelly cried out with wide eyes, while Verity crew a confident smirk on her face.

"Nice work Piplup! Now...Hydro Pump!" Verity cried, thrusting out the open left hand forward. "Pip-pip-piplup!" The Penguin Pokémon responded, spinning up into the air and then ceased spinning with its beak no longer glowing. Piplup then opened her beak and released a powerful stream of water with white rings of water around it at the down Seviper. Hydro Pump struck and covered the Fang Snake Pokémon from view for a few moments, before eventually clearing to reveal Seviper's unconscious form with swirls in its eyes.

Shelly gritted her teeth in frustration upon see her Poison type defeated, while Verity smiled brightly. Piplup fell from the sky and landed on her feet, looking pleased herself that she managed to defeat Seviper. "Piplup!" Verity's Penguin Pokémon exclaimed, throwing both hands up into the air to express her joy at defeating Seviper. "Awesome job, Piplup". Verity praised the Water type. Piplup turned to face her trainer, giving Verity a happy expression. "Piplup pip". Piplup said in thanks to Verity's praise, glad to have helped.

Shelly held out Seviper's enlarged Great Ball to the Poison type and recalled it to the device. The female Admin of Team Aqua put the device away, before shifting her gaze towards Verity and Piplup. Today has really proven to exhaust her resources as four of her Pokémon have been defeated, leaving Shelly with only two left. As much as she wanted to continue battling Verity, Shelly knew her priority was ensuring Archie's safety. So, it was with great difficulty to ignore the great urge to continue battling, Shelly turned around and began walking away.

Both Verity and Piplup noticed the older female walking away with the tomboyish girl raising an eyebrow in slight surprise. "Hey, wait a second!" The Sinnoh resident called out, catching Shelly's attention as she stopped in her tracks and looked over the left shoulder towards the younger girl. "You're walking away? I thought it was your intention to beat me, so why?" Verity questioned as she wanted an explanation from the older female. In response, Shelly gritted her teeth and turned to face forward with a deep frown.

"I hate to admit it, but I can't beat you. At least right now that is. That's why instead of using my last Pokémon in a pointless battle, I'm gonna give you the victory and walk away. My duty is to protect Archie, not waste time on a losing battle". The female adult explained to Verity, much to her surprise. Shelly then continued walking away, leaving Verity and Piplup watching her leave. Once Shelly disappeared from their sight, Piplup turned towards her trainer and ran towards the Twinleaf girl.

Once she was close enough, Piplup jumped towards Verity and the human girl caught the Water type in her arms. Verity gazed down at Piplup with a soft smile. "You did great against that Seviper. It was stronger than Team Rocket's one, that's for certain, but you proved to be the stronger Pokémon". The Twinleaf girl said with a joyful voice, something that filled Piplup with joy. "Piplup pip piplup". Verity's Penguin Pokémon said in thanks to her kind words. The Twinleaf girl spent a moment to smile down at her starter, before taking off running into another direction to go help with the grunts.

Nearby; Tabitha stood with his Mightyena right beside him on his left, facing the direction that Ash took off in with a frown displayed. 'If that kid thinks I will just stand by and let him get in Maxie's way, he's got another thing coming'. Tabitha said inside of his mind, before he looked down towards Mightyena. "Mightyena, we're gonna stop that kid from getting in Maxie's way". The Admin of Team Magma said to the Bite Pokémon, catching its attention as it looked up at Tabitha. Mightyena nodded its head to its trainer, before they both faced forward.

However, before the two could take a step forward, a spiral of water came in from behind and struck the ground 5 feet in front of them. Tabitha gave an annoyed grunt, before both he and Mightyena looked over to see May and Shellos standing 10 feet away from them with the Sea Slug Pokémon being the one responsible for the spiral of water. "We're not done just yet, you and I". May told the adult male with a look of resolve in her eyes. "Shellos!" Shellos cried out, staring at Mightyena with narrowed eyes.

"Can't you just give it up already. There's no way you'll be able to beat me". Tabitha said as if he was stating a fact. He and Mightyena turned around to fully face the brunette and her Water type with the male adult crossing his arms. "Earlier, your weakling couldn't even damage my Mightyena, so why bother when it is clearly hopeless to even try?" Tabitha questioned the brunette on why she wanted to continue battling when it was clear to see that she had no chance of winning.

May grew a frown on her face at Tabitha's words, yet didn't look disheartened. "...Because if I give up when things start to get a little tough, then I've truly lost. As long as Shellos and I continue fighting and never give up, we're sure to be rewarded!" The Petalburg girl exclaimed with a voice full of spirit, something that made Tabitha's eyes twitch. The adult male then gave a small sigh. "Whatever you say kid, not like it'll matter". Tabitha said as he reared his left hand in, and then swiped it out forward.

"Mightyena, Shadow Ball!" Team Magma's admin ordered the Bite Pokémon, intending to end this as soon as possible. Mightyena roared, rearing its head up and then fired black ball of energy at Shellos. "Use Water Gun on the ground to dodge!" May commanded, pointing down at the ground with her right hand's index finger. "Shel!" The Sea Slug Pokémon cried in response as it looked down at the ground and unleashed a spiral of water at it. The force of Water Gun pushed Shellos off of the ground and into the air, right before Shadow Ball came and struck the ground.

Up in the air, Shellos ceased using Water Gun and glanced down at Mightyena, who was staring up at her with narrowed eyes and gritted teeth. "Now Shellos, Icy Wind!" May commanded, thrusting out her right fist. "Shell!" Shellos shouted out, releasing a wind with light blue sparkles inside from its mouth down at Mightyena. Icy Wind landed a hit and unlike last time, it did a bit of damage as Mightyena flinched. Tabitha grew a small, annoyed frown, before throwing his left hand to the side. "Mightyena, Iron Tail go!" Team Magma's Admin ordered, now growing a bit annoyed.

Mightyena cried out, tail glowing a bright white colour as it began charging forward and then leaped into the air towards Shellos. "Counterattack with Body Slam!" May commanded as she reared in her right hand, and then swiped it out to the side. "Shellos!" The Sea Slug Pokémon cried out, falling down towards Mightyena. The Bite Pokémon spun around and swung its glowing tail at Shellos, clashing against its body half. Body Slam and Iron Tail clashed against one another with both sides struggling to overpower one another.

The force of the two attacks pushed Mightyena and Shellos away from one another with them falling to the ground. Fortunately, they managed to safely land on their feet 5 feet away from one another. Shellos and Mightyena glared at one another, before May took the next move. "Earth Power Shellos, go!" May ordered, holding out her right fist. "Shel!" The Sea Slug Pokémon cried out, its outline flashes yellow as its neck grew larger, before Shellos headbutted the ground in front of it, creating glowing gold cracks that travel towards Mightyena.

"Mightyena, Double Team". Tabitha commanded with a calm voice and arms crossed. Tabitha's Bite Pokémon snarled in response, before its body began to glow white. Multiple flashes then began appearing, clearing to reveal two copies of Mightyena beside the "original" one. The gold cracks went underneath the "original" Mightyena, but it disappeared as it was a fake one. The Mightyena on the left disappeared as well, revealing the right one to be the real one all along. May slightly gritted her teeth at seeing this, while Tabitha smirked a little.

"Mightyena, Iron Tail again". The Admin of Team Magma commanded with a bit of emotion in his voice. Mightyena howled as its tail began glowing white once more, before running towards the Shellos as its outline stopping flashing yellow. May grew a bit concern, while Shellos had a determined expression on its face. Once it was close enough, Mightyena leaped into the air and began falling towards Shellos, who reared its head back.

The Bite Pokémon spun around and swung its glowing tail, right at the exact same time Shellos thrust its head forward, resulting in Shellos' head slamming against Iron Tail. May's Water type flinched in pain from taking the powerful attack head on, but slowly managed to open its eyes to glare up at Mightyena. "Shel...los!" Shellos exclaimed with all its might, right before its body began glowing a bright white colour that covered her from view.

Mightyena widened its eyes in surprise, while Tabitha and May gasped in surprise at this unexpected surprise. The glowing covered Shellos then began growing larger, gaining new features as the evolution took place. Soon, it ceased growing larger, but was now much bigger before, around the same height at Mightyena, maybe even slightly larger. The glowing died down and revealed the newly evolved form of Shellos.

It was still a sea slug-like Pokémon, only mu h bigger. Much like its pre-evolved form, it has a slug-like body with a round head and a mantle covering the top half of its body. It has six stubby legs and three black eyes with white pupils. A yellow stripe runs along the edge of its mantle, through its lower two eyes, and around the back of its head. It has a pair of large tentacles on its head that curve upward, as well as a smaller, straighter pair of tentacles on its neck. Its underside is pink, while its mantle is brown with three pink spots on each side. There are two lumps on its back, resembling the cerata on real-life sea slugs.

(Play Digimon Run Around - Jasan Radford Extended)

The newly evolved Pokémon directed its eyes towards Mightyena, who was staring at its opponent with wide eyes, before rearing its head back a little and then let out a powerful cry. "Gastrodon!" It cried out, thrusting its head forward with enough force to blow Mightyena away into the air. The Dark type back flipped in mid-air and landed on all four feet, now both glaring and growling at the newly evolved Pokémon.

May, on the other hand, was full of joy at seeing her Shellos finally evolve. "Yay! Shellos evolved!" The brunette exclaimed in joy, before she moved to bring out her Pokédex to scan her new Pokémon. However, she stopped herself upon remembering her device wouldn't work as it can only scan Pokémon from Kanto, Johto and Hoenn. "May, heads up!" A familiar voice cried out to May from her left, catching the Petalburg girl's attention. She turned to her left and saw Verity running nearby with her arms wrapped around Piplup's torso.

Verity held up her right hand and revealed to be holding her Sinnoh Pokédex. "Catch this! It'll tell you all about your newly evolved Gastrodon!" The Twinleaf girl cried, and then threw the device to the brunette. May gave a startled cry of surprise at Verity's actions, before she jumped up and reached up with her right hand, managing to catch the device. May landed on her feet and gave a relived sigh, before bringing the device down and opened it. May activated the Pokédex and held it out towards the now named Gastrodon, scanning it.

"Gastrodon, the Sea Slug Pokémon and the evolved form of Shellos. A sturdy shell covered Gastrodon's back long ago. Its cells still contain evidence of it today". Verity's Pokédex gave out information about the evolved Sea Slug Pokémon to May, much to her amazement upon the new abilities Gastrodon has. "Wow, Gastrodon is both a Water and Ground type, it even has a new move to replace Water Gun". The Petalburg girl said with joy, before closing the device fully. She then looked towards Gastrodon and threw her left hand out with the index finger sticking out.

"Gastrodon, show us your new Muddy Water attack!" May commanded, wanting to see Muddy Water with her own eyes. "Gas...trodon!" The Sea Slug Pokémon cried out to the heavens, looking up into the air as it released multiple streams of brown water from its body. Mightyena cried out in surprise, before it began getting constantly hit by streams of brown water released from Gastrodon. It wasn't the only one getting hit by Muddy Water, so were the other Mightyena, Houndoom, Walrein, Sealeo and Tentacruel. Combusken, Poliwrath, Marshtomp, Druddigon, Throh, Bouffalant and Bagon were fortunately able to dodge Muddy Water, though they were a bit surprised at the unexpected attack.

Tabitha gritted his teeth in annoyance at seeing the tables turn thanks to Shellos' evolution to Gastrodon. Unlike before, Gastrodon's attacks were now actually dealing damage to Mightyena, and it was annoying the Admin of Team Magma. "Okay, that's enough of that! Mightyena, stop playing and use Hyper Beam!" Tabitha commanded, frustration leaking out of his voice as he spoke. The Bite Pokémon leaped up into the air out of the streams of brown water and glanced down towards Gastrodon. An orange ball of energy appeared in front of Mightyena's mouth. It then fired the ball as a beam of energy down towards the Water and Ground type.

"Gastrodon, fight back with Icy Wind!" May ordered, thrusting her right hand out to the side with the Pokédex still in hand. "Gastrodon!" May's Sea Slug Pokémon exclaimed as it ceased releasing multiple streams of brown water and released a powerful wind with light blue sparkles inside from its mouth. Icy Wind and Hyper Beam clashed against one another with both attacks stopping from going onwards to their targets. After a few moments, Icy Wind and Hyper Beam caused an explosion with both of them canceled out.

May had an amazed expression on her face at seeing Gastrodon's power that was on pair with Mightyena's. 'Gastodon is so powerful now. When she was a Shellos, she was getting rag dolled by Mightyena, but is now matching its power. Evolution really does increase a Pokémon's power'. The Petalburg girl thought to herself, slowly growing a confident smirk on her face. 'And what's better; Mightyena used Hyper Beam and now it can't move for a bit. Time to get in close and deal some damage'. May added, holding out her right hand with Verity's device in hand.

"Gastrodon, Body Slam now!" The brunette commanded her Water and Ground type. Gastrodon cried out, before jumping high into the sky. It then spun around as it began falling down towards Mightyena. The Bite Pokémon looked up and widened its eyes upon seeing the Sea Slug Pokémon falling down towards him, yet was unable to do anything as it was still recoiling from using Hyper Beam.

Blam!

Just as the name suggested, Gastrodon body slammed Mightyena hard; resulting in the Dark Type collapsing to the ground with its opponent on top of him. Tabitha gave an annoyed growl at seeing this. May laughed a bit in delight. "Nice one, Gastrodon! Use this chance to attack with Icy Wind!" The Petalburg girl commanded with a spirited voice, something that made Gastrodon grin at. "Gastro...don!" May's Sea Slug Pokémon screeched out, releasing another powerful wind with light blue sparkles inside down on Mightyena, landing a direct hit due to how close they were.

Tabitha narrowed his eyes for two different reasons; the battle against May and the whole situation. "This is not how I thought today was gonna go, but whatever. Mightyena, unleash a barrage of Shadow Balls to get out of there!" Team Magma's Admin ordered his Bite Pokémon, having a deep urge to just this whole thing over with and leave. Mightyena snarled in response, before turning its head to look up towards Gastrodon, ignoring the Icy Wind attack.

A black ball of energy formed in Mightyena's mouth. It closed its mouth over the black ball, then began firing a barrage of Shadow Balls right into Gastrodon's face. May's Water and Ground type gave a cry of surprise at the unexpected barrage of attacks, even stopped using Icy Wind. The Shadow Balls exploded in purple sparkles upon impact with Gastrodon turning its head to the side. May grew worried at seeing her Sea Slug Pokémon taking multiple hits like that.

"Gastrodon, get out of there!" The Petalburg girl exclaimed, something that Gaston was more than happy to do as it leaped off of Mightyena's back and into the air. May's Sea Slug Pokémon landed on the ground in front of May, while Mightyena stood back on its feet. However, there was a bit of ice in the Bite Pokémon's fur, something that May took notice off. 'Finally... Icy Wind's paid off'. May thought to herself with a grin. All this time, May's had a strategy of using Icy Wind's effect to decrease Mightyena's speed and help Gastrodon.

Tabitha took notice of the ice in Mightyena's fur, but paid it no mind. Instead, he focused on the battle taking place. "Mightyena, Iron Tail!" The adult male commanded, going for the physical attack approach. Mightyena roared as it charged forward towards Gastrodon, tail glowing white once more as it did so. "Gastrodon, stand strong". May told the Water and Ground type, having an idea to help with the situation and defeat Mightyena.

"Gastro..." Gastrodon said slowly as it braced itself, having full faith in May. Mightyena ran right up to May's Sea Slug Pokémon and landed a direct Iron Tail on Gastrodon's front, causing it to flinch while the Dark Type seemed to float in the air. However, the Water and Ground type stayed strong and glared at Mightyena with defiant eyes. "Now, Earth Power!" May cried out, rearing up the left fist and throwing the right one up. "Gastrodon!" May's Sea Slug Pokémon screeched out with its third eye flashing orange.

Orange energy then erupted from the ground underneath Mightyena, covering the Bite Pokémon from view. "What!?" Tabitha gasped in surprise, having not expected this. May laughed in delight at seeing this, before throwing her right fist into the air. "How do ya like that!?" The Petalburg girl said with a confident smirk. The orange energy then disappeared completely with Mightyena falling from the sky and crashed down in front of Tabitha on its right side. The Admin of Team Magma looked down at his Bite Pokémon and saw the swirls in its eyes, a sign that it can no longer battle.

(Music end)

"We did it! We won!" May exclaimed in joy, something that Gastrodon copied as it let out a victory cry. Tabitha was silent as he stared down at the unconscious form of Mightyena for a few moments, before closing both eyes and gave a small grin. "Hmm... Not bad kid. Not bad". Team Magma's Admin said with an impressed tone, and then brought out an enlarged Poké Ball with his right hand and recalled Mightyena to the device.

Once his Bite Pokémon was recalled fully, Tabitha put the device away and turned around and began walking away. May took notice of Tabitha walking away and grew a confused expression. "Hey, wait a second!" The brunette called out, catching Tabitha's attention as he stopped in his tracks. "Are you running away? I mean, you've got to still have some Pokémon left, right? So why are you leaving?" May questioned Tabitha with Gastrodon turning to look towards the adult male with narrowed eyes.

Tabitha gave a good-hearted chuckle as he turned around to fully face May and Gastrodon. "Two reasons kid. 1; I'm not here to waste my time battling kids and get sidetracked from my duties. And 2; you've proven to be tougher than I thought and that's earned my respect. That's why I'm letting you go, you've got potential, and I want to see how far you can go. Get stronger and let's battle again someday. I'll be waiting". Team Magma's Admin explained to May, much to her slight surprise at his words. Before she could even make a reply, Tabitha turned around and walked away, eventually disappearing from May's view.

May spent the next few moments staring at where she last saw Tabitha, before turning her gaze towards Gastrodon. The brunette ran towards her Sea Slug Pokémon with an excited smile displayed. "Gastrodon!" She exclaimed in delight, catching Gastrodon's attention. It turned around to look at its trainer, right before May came down to her knees and hugged her Sea Slug Pokémon with a wide smile. "You're incredible out there, I love you". May said with a loving tone, something that made Gastrodon smile brightly as it wrapped its neck around May to return the hug.

Not too far away, the battle between Blaise and Amber was reaching its end. The two males stood a few feet away from one another with their Pokémon in front of them. Both Slugma and Gorebyss were breathing very heavily, yet kept glaring at one another. "Why can't you Team Magma guys just give it up already?" Amber questioned The Shadow of Fire, something that made Blaise let out a laugh. "What can I say. We're just that stubborn". Blaise answered his opponent, an answer that made Amber grit his teeth in annoyance.

"It's that kind of attitude that makes me hate you guys. Gorebyss, Hydro Pump now!" The Drop of Terror ordered Gorebyss, pointing his right hand's index finger forward. Amber's South Sea Pokémon cried out fiercely, before blasting a powerful jet of water from the tip of its nose towards Slugma.

"Oh yeah? Slugma, give him a Smog attack!" Blaise commanded, keeping his cool unlike Amber. "Slugma!" The Fire type cried, opening its mouth and letting out a thick, gray smoke that spread out quickly and covered it from view. The jet of water came in and blasted through the smoke, blowing it away to reveal Slugma was gone somehow. Amber gritted his teeth at seeing this, while Blaise smirked. "Now, Flamethrower!" The blond-haired male commanded, rearing in his left hand and then swiped it out forward.

Slugma leaped up into the air from behind a boulder and breathed out a stream of orange-red flames towards Gorebyss from the right side. "Think again! Gorebyss, Safeguard!" The Drop of Terror ordered the Water type. Gorebyss became surrounded in a green aura that the stream of flames slammed into, protecting the Water type from harm. Blaise didn't look frustrated, instead he had a confident smirk present on his face. "Thanks for that, now I have nothing else to worry about. Slugma, Rock Slide go!" The Shadow of Fire commanded, punching the air with his left fist.

Multiple gray rocks appeared around Slugma. It then sent the stones flying towards Gorebyss, striking the green aura and shattering it. With its shield gone, the South Sea Pokémon got hit clean by the gray rocks, blasting it to the ground. Team Aqua's Admin growled in anger, slowing lifting up a shaking right fist that expressed his growing rage. "I will not lose to some punk from Team Magma! Gorebyss, Confusion attack go!" Amber ordered, anger leaking out as he spoke.

Gorebyss lifted it head and turned to look towards Slugma. "Gorebyss..." The Water type said slowly as its eyes began to glow light blue. Blaise narrowed his eyes as he knew what was coming and had no intention of letting that happen. "Use Smog again". The Shadow of Fire commanded with a calm voice, crossing both arms as he spoke. "Slugma..." Slugma groaned out, breathing out another thick, gray smoke. Only this time it went towards Gorebyss instead of covering the Fire type from view.

Smog quickly covered Gorebyss from view, landing a direct hit. "Gorebyss!" Amber cried out with wide eyes of dread. The smoke slowly, in Amber's eyes, cleared to reveal Amber's Water type lying down on its side with swirls in its eyes. Amber gasped in shock at seeing this, Blaise grinned brightly in victory. "Slugma!" Slugma let out a victory cry, slightly raising its head into the air.

"This...isn't...possible..." The Admin of Team Aqua said in disbelief that he's lost, taking a few steps back as he spoke. "Oh, it is possible. You've lost and I've won this battle. Plain and simple". Blaise remarked, walking up and stopped next to his Slugma. The blond-haired male had a smug smirk displayed and was resting both hands in his pockets.

Amber brought out an enlarged Poké Ball and returned Gorebyss to inside of it. Once done, he put the device away and glared towards Blaise with pure anger. "I'm not done just yet. I've still got some left!" Amber shouted out, placing his right hand behind himself and brought out an enlarged Great Ball. Blaise and Slugma narrowed their eyes at the sight of the device, before they braced themselves for another battle. Just when Amber reared his arm back and was about to throw the device, he was stopped at the call of his comrade.

"Amber, that's enough!" A familiar voice called out to the bald-headed male, resulting in Amber freezing as if he was frozen by ice. Blaise and Slugma looked past him to see Shelly standing 5 feet behind her fellow Admin, arms crossed, and a deep frown displayed. "We're gotten sidetracked. Our objective here to retrieve the Meteorite, not fight Team Magma all day. Because of our carelessness, we've suffered heavy losses today. We need to retreat for now and regroup with Archie". The female adult told her comrade, slightly turning her head right and saw May's Combusken land a Sky Uppercut on a Walrein.

Amber finally turned around to look at the black-haired woman, teeth gritted hard as he struggled with himself. One side was telling him to follow Shelly's words, while the other, mostly likely his pride, demanded him to ignore her and continue battling Blaise. After a few seconds of struggling, Amber gave a sigh as he put away the Great Ball. "Alright Shelly, I'll follow your lead". The bald-headed man said to his fellow Admin, something that Shelly gave an approving nod at.

Team Aqua's female Admin then lifted her head up towards the sky and let out a loud cry for everyone to hear. "Team Aqua, retreat! We must regroup!" The black-haired woman shouted out, catching everyone's attention at what she just yelled out. Almost immediately, all of the Team Aqua grunts responded with cries of "Yes mam!", before they and their Pokémon began retreating.

Shelly then turned to look at Amber, uncrossing her arms and then placed them on the hips. "Let's go". The female admin said to her comrade, before they both began walking away, leaving Blaise and Slugma watching them. The Shadow in Fire narrowed both eyes, before looking down at Slugma and saw the Fire type staring at him in confusion. "..." Blaise said nothing as he turned to watch Shelly and Amber walk away.

Nearby, Verity and Piplup watched the Team Aqua grunts and their Pokémon run away. The two of them were just about to battle against two grunts, a Walrein and Sealeo, but then Shelly shouted out her order to retreat and now they were just watching them go. Verity looked down at Piplup in her arms, who looked up at the Twinleaf girl. "I don't know what game those tall blues are playing at, but we don't have time to play guessing games". Verity said to the Penguin Pokémon, something that Piplup nodded at.

Just then, the two were surrounded by Team Magma grunts, Mightyena and Houndoom as well. Verity looked right, and Piplup left to look at their new opponents. "And now we're surrounded". The Twinleaf girl stated, before Piplup jumped out of her arms and landed in front of her. "Piplup pip". Verity's starter said with a determined voice, ready to battle to protect her trainer. Verity looked down at her starter, before facing forward.

"If you're gonna battle old friend, you're gonna need some help". Verity said with a confident voice, bringing up her right hand with a Dive Ball in hand. "Kingdra, go!" The Twinleaf girl exclaimed, rearing her hand back and then tossed it. The device burst open and released a bluish white beam right above the ground next to Piplup. It cleared to reveal Verity's Kingdra with the Dragon Pokémon releasing a powerful cry. Kingdra and Piplup faced forward, both their eyes displaying resolve in them.

Nearby, Max, Professor Cozmo, Jirachi, Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, Poliwrath, Druddigon, Throh, Bagon, Marshtomp, the two Solrocks and Combusken have all gathered together. The only problem was that they were surrounded on all sides by Team Magma and their Pokémon. "We're surrounded". Cozmo pointed out, a small bit of sweat dropping from his hair. "Thank you for pointing out the obvious, professor". Max thanked in a sarcastic voice to the older male. 'I'm ready to help out whenever you say so, Max'. Jirachi informed his best friend, hanging on Max's head like he usually does.

Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, Druddigon, Poliwrath, Throh, Bagon, Marshtomp, the Solrocks and Combusken all gave rallying cries, ready to jump back into battle at Max's command. The Petalburg boy grumbled as he lowered his head. Just as he was about to speak, someone beat him to it. "Guys, I'm back!" Someone called out from above, catching the attention of the gang, Team Magma grunts and Pokémon as they all looked in the direction that the voice came from.

Up above on a cliff overlooking them all stood Brock right at the edge, an enlarged Poké Ball in his right hand. "Brock!" Max and Jirachi cried out in joy to see the former Gym Leader has returned. "Marshtomp!/ Solrock!" Marshtomp and the shiny Solrock exclaimed in joy to see their trainer is back now, while Druddigon and Throh just grinned. Brock gave a smile down at his friends, then changed his gaze towards the Team Magma grunts and Pokémon. "I hope all of you are ready, because here comes some big trouble for you!" The Pewter City Gym Leader exclaimed, thrusting up his right hand into the air.

(Play Naruto The Rising Fighting Spirit.)

"GO! ONIX!" Brock shouted out into the heavens, rearing his hand down and in, before throwing it out with everything he had. The device spun around as it soared through the air, before suddenly stopping and burst open, releasing a bright white beam. It came down and struck the ground hard, kicking up a large bit of dust and even blew two grunts off their feet. It quickly cleared to reveal Brock's very first; Onix.

Onix is a Pokémon composed of a giant chain of gray boulders that become smaller towards the tail. It has black eyes and a rounded snout. On top of its head is a rocky spine. Onix let out a loud and powerful roar, releasing a powerful gust of wind as it towered over everyone. Speaking of everyone, they were all staring up at the Pokémon known to be the tallest Rock type in the world. Max, Jirachi and Marshtomp had anime starry eyes at Onix, while Professor Cozmo, Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, Druddigon, Poliwrath, Throh, Bagon, the Solrocks and Combusken were staring in awe.

"Wow! It's a real Onix!" Max shouted out with an excited smile on his face. Like her brother, May was amazed at the sight of Brock's first Pokémon. "Whoa... That's a big Pokémon". The brunette stated, something that Gastrodon nodded its head in agreement. "Gastro..." May's Sea Slug Pokémon said in a low voice. May held up Verity's Pokédex, opened and activated the device before scanning Onix with it.

"Onix, the Rock Snake Pokémon. By twisting its large and powerful body, Onix can quickly bore through the ground at 50 miles per hour". The device explained, telling May about the Rock Snake Pokémon. The Petalburg girl turned the device off and closed it, before looking towards Onix. Nearby, Sorrel stared up at Brock's Rock Snake Pokémon in fascination, before looking down in thought. 'With the Metal Coat I have; Brock could evolve his Onix into Steelix. I'll have to talk to him about it once all this craziness is over with'. Sorrel thought to himself, thinking about the item he obtained in Mauvile City sometime ago.

Team Rocket were both stunned and surprised to see Onix again after so long. Even Cacturne and Gothirita were crying out at the sight of the Rock Snake Pokémon because unlike Jessie, James and Meowth, they haven't seen such a large Pokémon before. "Oh boy, now that's a sight for sore eyes". James remarked with a small, nervous smile on his face.

"We haven't seen that big guy for some time now. I suggest we keep our distance and let him go wild with Tea Magma". Jessie suggested to her teammates, something that Mewoth nodded in agreement to. "Agreed". The Scratch Cat Pokémon stated, before they all turned around and scurried away to avoid Onix's wrath.

Speaking of the Rock Snake Pokémon, Onix slightly turned its head right to look towards Brock and saw him smiling fondly at his starter. "Have I missed you, old friend". The former Gym Leader said with a happy tone, much to Onix's joy at his words. "We can catch up later, right now I need your help". Brock told the Rock Snake Pokémon, causing Onix to lose its joyful expression and replace it with a serious one. Brock's Rock type then faced down and looked down at the Team Magma grunts and their Pokémon.

"Onix, Iron Tail go!" Brock shouted out, bringing up his right hand and then held it out forward. Onix roared, bringing up its tail as it began glowing a bright white colour, before swinging it like a bat and basked a few grunts, Mightyena and Houndoon into the air. They all cried out as they fell to the ground, kicking up a bit of dust upon making contact with it.

"Oh-ho, now that's some serious power of strength". Verity commented with an impressed smile, comparing this Onix to the one she and Ash ran away from when they first met 2 years ago. "Piplup pip". Piplup said in agreement, easily able to see that this Onix was raised magnificently.

A random Mightyena cried out before firing a Shadow Ball at Onix, only for it to be educed into dark purple sparkles when the Rock Snake Pokémon swung its tail at the Shadow Ball. "Okay Onix, let's try out Stone Edge next!" Brock ordered, rearing up his right hand and pointing the left hand's index finger into the sky. At his command, Onix slams its tail onto the ground, causing pointed light blue rock pillars to appear out of the ground and rush forward. The rock pillars ended up hitting multiple targets of Team Magma and their Pokémon.

Max and Jirachi laughed happily at seeing Onix do its work of taking out Team Magma. Even Marshtomp, Throh, Druddigon and shiny Solrock were crying out in cheers for the Rock Snake Pokémon, looking forward to officially meeting it. "My, that Onix is powerful. I'm certain that it has been raised with love and trust to reach this level of strength". Professor Cozmo commented with a small smile. Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, Poliwrath, Druddigon, Bagon, Professor Cozmo's Solrock and Combusken were silent as they watched the Rock Snake Pokémon.

Blaise and his Slugma were staring up at Onix with the human male's teeth gritted against one another. "Blaise!" A voice called out to The Shadow of Fire, catching Blaise's attention as he turned his head left; where he saw Tabitha running up to him. "Tabitha". Blaise acknowledged with a nod of the head. Maxie's right-hand man stopped in front of his fellow Admin and gave Blaise a serious look. "Has there been any word from Maxie or Courtney?" Tabitha questioned his comrade, which Blaise shook his head sideways in response.

"No, I've heard nothing from them, or received any reports concerning the two. I'm sure Maxie is alright, it's Courtney we need to be worried about". Blaise told his fellow Admin, something that Tabitha nodded at. Unlike with Maxie, they still had no idea where Courtney was beside from the fact that A squad told them that she stayed behind to battle Ash. Now, after Ash had shown up, they had no idea where she was.

A roar from Onix caught their attention as they and Slugma looked towards the Rock Snake Pokémon, where they saw it slam another Iron Tail into a few of their members. "Although that thing is gonna be a problem if something isn't done about it". Blaise pointed out, and then looked down at his Slugma. The Fire type shook its head sideways, answering Blaise's unanswered question if he could handle Onix. Blaise looked back at Tabitha and shook his head.

"Slugma used up all his energy battling against that Team Aqua chump. And my other Pokémon aren't exactly a good match for it". The blond-haired male informed Tabitha, something that made him grow an annoyed frown. He then looked towards Onix. "Fine then, I'll handle this". Maxie's right-hand man said, swiping up his right hand with an enlarged Ultra Ball in hand. Right when Tabitha was about to toss the device and release his Pokémon, he was stopped by an unexpected development.

"Zangoose! Focus Blast, go!" A female cried out from nowhere, catching Blaise, Tabitha and Slugma off guard with Maxie's right-hand man stopping himself. Up atop a nearby mountain, a Zangoose ran on all four feet to the edge and leaped up into the air. "Zangoose!" The Cat Ferret Pokémon roared, forming an orb of yellow energy in between its hands. Zangoose then fired it at Onix, who was slowly turning to face Zangoose.

Onix was too slow to dodge and got blasted by Focus Blast on the left side of its face. Brock's Rock Snake Pokémon cried out in pain, before collapsing to the ground on its back, something that Team Magma grunts ran out of the way from. "Ahhh! Onix!" Brock gasped in concern for the Rock type, everyone else of the gang looking shocked at the unexpected attack. The Zangoose that fired the Focus Blast, fell to the ground and safely landed on all four feet. "Zangoose!" It roared into the air, before glaring towards the down form of Onix.

Courtney walked into view from atop the mountain and stopped at the edge. Everyone looked towards the female Admin of Team Magma with Brock being the only exception as he ran off to find a way down to his Onix. "Courtney, there you are!" Blaise exclaimed with a grin, while Tabitha stared at the young girl with narrowed eyes. "Where have you been!? This whole thing has turned into a battlefield!" Tabitha questioned the final Admin of their organization, catching the attention of Courtney as she glanced down towards Tabitha.

"My apologizes for the delay of my arrival. Where is the boy with the Pikachu?" Courtney questioned with a hint of longing in her voice. Tabitha and Blaise blinked in surprise at her question as all she usually cared about was fulfilling their mission, so to hear her ask about someone was surprising. "...He went after Maxie. He was here not too long ago, but left soon after". The Shadow of Flame told the young female, much to her displeasure as she looked down in sadness. Tabitha hummed to himself at seeing the expression on Courtney's face, yet kept silent.

Brock made it down to his Onix and ran straight up to its face. "Are you okay Onix?" The Pokémon Breeder asked his Rock type, just as Onix opened its eyes to look at Brock. Brock's Rock Snake Pokémon groaned in response, something that made him smile in relief. "That's good to hear. Can you go on?" Pewter City's former Gym Leader asked, wanting to be certain Onix can go on or not.

In response to Brock's question, Onix lifted itself off of the ground and back to its full height. The Rock Snake Pokémon then unleashed a powerful roar, something that made Brock smile as he knew that was Onix's way of answering. "Alright, then let's do this". Brock said with a confident smile, before turning to face Zangoose. The Normal type was staring up at Onix, having been watching it the whole time since it first attacked.

Blaise looked from Courtney towards the Rock Snake Pokémon, before back towards her. "That big snake is back up. Mind putting it back down on the ground?" Blaise requested from the purple-haired girl, catching Courtney's attention. "Hmmm". She hummed, turning to look at Onix and indeed saw it looking ready to battle. "Very well. This won't take long". Courtney said as she threw her right hand out. "Zangoose, Focus Blast again!" Team Magma's female admin commanded with a serious voice, a sign that she was in battle mode now.

"Zagoose!" The Cat Ferret Pokémon roared, before leaping into the air. It then brought its hands together and formed an orb of yellow energy in between them. Zangoose then thrust its hands out and fired Focus Blast at Onix. "Fight back with Dragon Breath!" Brock ordered, holding up his right fist. Brock's Rock Snake Pokémon screeched, releasing a blue beam from its mouth at Focus Blast. The two attacks clashed against one another, sparks of energy being conducted, before causing an explosion.

Brock looked up towards Courtney and saw her staring down at him with a naturel expression. Zangoose safely landed on all four feet like before, growling up at Onix as it towered over it. As if that was a symbol, the battle resumed as the gang continued off against Team Magma.

Blaise turned to look at Tabitha, before placing his left hand on Tabitha's right shoulder. The right-hand man of Maxie turned to look at his comrade with a small frown. "We'll handle things here, Tabitha. You go on ahead and catch up to Maxie". The Shadow of Fire told his comrade, much to the slight surprise of Tabitha as his eyes slightly widened. "Are you sure? I'm certain Maxie can handle that kid without any problem". Tabitha replied, certain their leader can defeat Ash single-handedly.

"It's better safe than sorry. Besides, that kid managed to beat two of Team Aqua's Admins and was even able to get past Courtney somehow. Do your duty as Maxie's right-hand man and be there for him". Blaise told Tabitha, silencing him as he could see that his fellow Admin had a point. After a moment or two of silence, Tabitha nodded his head at Blaise. "Alright, I'm leaving you in charge of here. Make sure no one else gets to Maxie". Maxie's right-hand man instructed, before he turned and took off.

Blaise watched him off for a few seconds, before turning around and ran off as well to aid his fellow Team Magma members.

(Music end/ Meanwhile)

At the center of Mt. Chimney, there was a steel bridge with a see-through center that connected from the mainland over the sea of lava. At the end of the bridge, Maxie stood in front of an energy absorber machine. It was compact and round with four large tubes that changed the energy from the lava down below into a class container on top, where the Meteorite was.

The leader of Team Magma was silent with both hands folded behind his back. He was silent as the grave as he watched the machine in front of him, as if waiting for something. After a few moments of silence, he eventually spoke. "The power contained in the Meteorite... If we merge the explosive energy contained within the planet's core with the Meteorite's power..." Maxie monologed, eyes showing the hidden fascination that he was feeling.

"I have no idea what you mean by that, but it doesn't really matter". A familiar voice said from Maxie's left, grabbing his attention as he turned left and saw Ash walking towards him with Pikachu riding on the left shoulder. Maxie widened his eyes in surprise, before he then turned around to fully face the Rainbow Hero just as Ash stopped 10 feet away from him. "I remember those eyes. And the indomitable will that seems to burn behind them. You're that boy that I crossed paths with at Meteor Falls". Team Magma's leader said with a small frown.

"Glad to hear that you remember me. Now, if the pleasantries are out of the way, give back that Meteorite, it doesn't belong to you". The Rainbow Hero requested, slightly narrowing his eyes as he spoke. To Ash's disappointment and somewhat expectations, Maxie shook his head at him. "I cannot do that. This Meteorite is an important part of our plans". The red-haired man told the young trainer, resulting in Pikachu gritting its teeth with sparks of electricity sparking out of his cheeks.

"Your presence here tells me that you managed to overcome Courtney". Maxie said as he grew a grin on his face, a sign of interest that made Ash raise an eyebrow at. "Yes, I see now that the string of interest I felt was not misplaced. Hmph, you truly show some promise. Fine. I will attempt to educate you". Team Magma's leader declared, something that made the raven-haired boy narrow his eyes. "I don't need to be educated by a guy with delusions of grandeur. But if it's a battle you want, ya got one!" Ash exclaimed, bringing up his right hand with an enlarged Poké Ball in hand.

Maxie narrowed his eyes at what Ash said, yet didn't respond. Instead, he began to speak as if he was telling a story. "Thousands of years ago, there lived a most powerful being that was said to be capable of creating new lands on the planet". The leader of Team Maxie began, getting Ash and Pikachu to frown slightly at him. 'Is he talking about Groudon?' Ash questioned inside his mind, wondering if this being and Groudon were one and the same.

"The power which we in Team Magma seek- This power, which can expand the available landmass, belongs to a legendary and super-ancient Pokémon. Though now it slumbers, having lost the source of its power and been trapped in a deep sleep". Maxie continued, turning his head right to look over the edge towards the pool of lava below them. He then turned back towards the Rainbow Hero and resumed. "So what is it we must do to awaken this slumbering giant? Our research has led us here. to Mt. Chimney. Yes, here...to this Meteorite". The adult man added, pointing towards the Meteorite with his right hand's index finger.

Ash and Pikachu turned to look at the glass containing the Meteorite atop the machine for a moment, then back at Maxie as he lowered his hand. "If we create the right conditions, we should find ourselves able to alter this Meteorite's qualities. Yes, even into a Mega Stone". Maxie said with a dark grin, much to the shock of Ash and Pikachu as they widened their eyes. 'A Mega Stone!?' Ash shouted out inside his mind, eyes shifting towards the Meteorite once more. 'Don't tell me they're trying to make a Mega Stone for Groudon? This guy can't be serious!' The Rainbow Hero added, turning to look back at Maxie.

"Even into a Ket Stone. And here, at Mt. Chimney-" Maxie began, only to stop and shake his head. "Hmph... I should not say too much. That is the end of today's lesson". The adult man said, the dark grin falling slightly. "If that's the case, thanks for the lesson". Ash thanked with a sarcastic voice, raising the Poké Ball once more. "Now then. I believe it is time we begin. The time for the purge has come. I do believe that I made myself clear back in Meteor Falls". Maxie said as his dark grin regained its original size, something that made Ash narrow his eyes.

"Enough talk, let's battle! Go, Dragonite!" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed, rearing his arm back and then thrust it out and threw the Poké Ball. The device burst open and released a bluish white beam into the air. It cleared to reveal Dragonite with her crying out with spirit. "I will bury you with my own hand. I hope you apricate this honor!" Maxie exclaimed, slowly lifting his right hand into the air and then swiped it down forward. "Crobat, come!" He cried out, causing Ash to widen his eyes in surprise.

"Cro...!" A crow came out of nowhere, before Maxie's Crobat flew in from out of nowhere. The Flying and Poison type glared towards Dragonite, while she simply narrowed her eyes at it. "He already had a Pokémon out?" Ash questioned in slight surprise, having not expected him to be so prepared. "Pikachu pi". Pikachu commented, looking up towards Maxie's Crobat as it reminded him of Brock's one.

Unknown to them all was that they were being watched. Near the edge of the volcano, Archie was leaning his back against a large boulder, watching with both arms crossed. The leader of Team Aqua had a fascinated expression as he stared at Ash's back. "So, this pipsqueak is the one that gave Shelly and Amber a run for their money, huh? If he's battling against Maxie, then I'll definitely get the chance to see just how good he is". Archie said with a dark grin, before he started laughing in glee.

A little bit further away, crouching down on top of a boulder was the same mysteries Team Aqua girl watching Ash and Maxie. She had chased after the Rainbow Hero, leaving the battle royal behind since she was more interested in him then fighting a losing battle. The girl gave a grin at Ash as his determination to face Team Magma's leader impressed her a bit. "Kid's got guts, I'll give him that. Now let's see if he can back up that tough guy talk". She said to herself, seeing this as a perfect chance to see Ash's skills fully.

(Play Yu-Gi-Oh! ARC-V OST - White Hot Fighting Spirit Extended)

"Crobat, Dark Pulse!" Maxie ordered, throwing his right hand out. "Cro...!" Crobat crowed, forming a pink orb of energy in front of it and it fires a beam of purple rings of energy at Dragonite.

"Dragonite, Dragon Dance go!" Ash called out, swiping his right hand out to the side. The female dragon gave a cry as her body became surrounded in orange energy as she began spinning rather quickly, right as the beam of purple rings struck, yet was deflected. Maxie raised an eyebrow at seeing this as it was unlike any defense tactic he's ever seen. "Impressive". The red-haired man said in slight surprise.

Dark Pulse died down slowly and once it was gone completely, Dragonite ceased its spinning with the orange energy disappearing. The Rainbow Hero then swiped his right hand forward in a position like it was a clawed hand like a dragon's. "Our turn to attack now! Dragonite, slice and dice with Dragon Claw!" Ash commanded with a growing confident smirk. Dragonite reared her hands in, and then swiped them out with light-green aura appearing over them, taking the form of claw-like shapes.

The Dragon Pokémon shot towards Crobat with the intention to strike hard with Dragon Claw. Maxie narrowed his eyes, yet kept calm. "Crobat, use Brave Bird". The red-haired man commanded with a calm voice. Maxie's Bat Pokémon screeched as its body became surrounded in a light blue aura. Crobat shot out towards Dragonite, going for s straight forward approach.

Ash's Dragon Pokémon reared her right claw in as she and Crobat drew closer to one another. Just as they were about to clash, Dragonite thrust her claw out to strike Crobat, yet the Bat Pokémon, with surprising speed, dived down to dodge, then ascended straight into Dragonite's stomach. Upon impact, Brave Bird caused an explosion that covered Dragonite and Crobat from view.

Ash and Pikachu looked up at the dust cloud with wide eyes, shocked at how Crobat outmatched Dragonite in speed. "Even after Dragonite getting powered up by Dragon Dance, she was still outclassed in speed?!" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed, realizing that Maxie and his Pokémon were more than he bargained for. Dragonite came falling from the smoke down towards the pool of lava down below.

She passed through the bridge, much to the horror of Ash and Pikachu. The Rainbow Hero ran towards the edge and looked down towards his falling Dragon Pokémon. "Dragonite, wake up please!" Ash cried out towards the female Dragon and Flying type with a voice full of worry. "Pikachu!" Pikachu yelled out to Dragonite in hopes she regains consciousness.

Fortunately for them, their voices reached Dragonite as she opened her eyes. Ash's Dragon Pokémon turned around, before she began flapping her wings. She managed to pull up at the last second and ascend into the air. Ash and Pikachu sighed in relief at seeing their friend safe, while Maxie narrowed both eyes at Dragonite. He then turned to look up at Crobat, where he saw blue sparks dancing around the Bat Pokémon.

"Crobat, Cross Poison now". The leader of Team Magma commanded his Poison and Flying type. "Cro..." Maxie's Bat Pokémon exclaimed, crossing its wings over its face as they started glowing purple. A purple 'X' then appeared in front of its crossed wings, and it opened its wings, firing the 'X' at Dragonite. The female Dragon Pokémon noticed the 'X' over her left shoulder, before flying up higher in an attempt to dodge the attack. However, Cross Poison chased right after her as if it was a homing missile.

Ash and Pikachu frowned at witnessing this, while Dragonite continued to try to lose the homing Cross Poison attack. "If we can't dodge it, then let's get rid of it! Dragonite, use Aqua Tail to deflect Cross Poison and then fight back with Hurricane!" The Rainbow Hero commanded, throwing his left arm out to the side. "Pikachu pi!" Pikachu cried out in encouragement to the female Dragon Pokémon, cheering her on.

Dragonite narrowed her eyes at Ash's command. She stopped flying away and turned to face the approaching purple 'X'. Dragonite's tail became surrounded in swirling water, before she spun around and slammed Aqua Tail into Cross Poison, reducing it to nothing. The swirling water surrounding Dragonite's tail disappeared, before she began flapping her wings and released a powerful gust of wind towards Crobat.

Hurricane landed a clean hit and pushed Crobat back a bit. Ash let out a laugh at seeing this, while Pikachu cried out in joy. "Nicely done, Dragonite". The Rainbow Hero praised the Dragon Pokémon, much to Dragonite's joy as she ceased flapping her wings. "It's too early to start celebrating". Maxie told the young trainer, bringing his right hand as he spoke. "Crobat, Roost". Team Magma's leader ordered with a calm voice, snapping his right hand's fingers.

"Cro..." Maxie's Bat Pokémon crowed, body beginning to glow brightly as it healed itself. "Terrific. Dragonite, Dragon Dance!" Ash commanded, tilting his head up to look at Dragonite. The female dragon gave a cry as her body became surrounded in orange energy as she began spinning rather quickly, powering herself up. Maxie narrowed his eyes at seeing this, realizing he cannot allow multiple use of Dragon Dance as it'll become a problem for him.

Crobat ceased glowing brightly, finishing its use of Roost. Maxie brought his right hand back to behind himself, and then gave the next command. "Dark Pulse, go". The red-haired man commanded, although his voice had a tiny bit of eagerness in it. "Cro...!" Crobat crowed, forming a pink orb of energy in front of it and it fires a beam of purple rings of energy at Dragonite.

"Let's try this out! Dragonite, Hurricane to defend yourself!" The Rainbow Hero commanded with a growing smirk. Dragonite let out a cry as she began spinning, creating a powerful gust of wind that she surrounded herself in like a spinning barrier. Dark Pulse slammed into the Hurricane barrier, yet was unable to break through. Maxie's eyes slightly widened in surprise at this rather remarkable way of using Hurricane.

Dark Pulse died down completely, before the Hurricane barrier surrounding Dragonite died down as well to reveal her unharmed. "That went well. Now, Dragon Claw!" Ash called out, growing a confident smirk as he pointed his left hand's index finger out. Dragonite reared her hands in, and then swiped them out with light-green aura appearing over them, taking the form of claw-like shapes. The Dragon Pokémon then shot out towards Crobat, going faster than before.

Unlike last time, Dragonite managed to reach Crobat and strike it with her left claw, the blow pushing the Bat Pokémon a little bit away. "There's more where that came from! Dragonite, Aqua Tail go!" Ash commanded with the same confident smirk from earlier still on his face. The female Dragon and Flying type narrowed her eyes as the light-green aura surrounding her claws disappeared. Dragonite's tail then became surrounded in swirling water once again, before flying towards Crobat once more.

Unlike last time however, Maxie wasn't gonna allow his Pokémon to get hit. "Crobat, Brave Bird now". Team Magma's leader told the Bat Pokémon, keeping both hands folded at his back. Maxie's Bat Pokémon screeched as its body became surrounded in a light blue aura. Crobat shot out towards Dragonite, a repeat of last time the two almost came close to clashing against one another.

Ash, however, had no intentions of letting a repeat of what happened happen. "Dragonite, add Dragon Dance to Aqua Tail to make Aqua Dance!" The Rainbow Hero shouted out, punching the air with his left fist. "What?" Maxie questioned in slight surprise, having never heard of something called "Aqua Dance" before. The Dragon Pokémon's body became surrounded in orange energy as she began spinning rather quickly. The swirling water surrounding her tail grew larger and powerful, engulfing the Dragon Pokémon in water and covering her from view.

Crobat cried out in surprise at this unexpected development, before trying the same tactic of diving down to dodge. But, Dragonite was ready this time. The moment the Bat Pokémon attempted to dive down, Ash's Dragon Pokémon dive down after him and struck Crobat. The moment of impact, an explosion was created that covered the two from view. But after a moment or two, Dragonite and Crobat flew out of the smoke cloud in opposite directions. Dragonite didn't appear too damaged, but Crobat appeared to have taken a considerable amount of damage.

"Remarkable... You merged two moves together to form a new one. I must say; the thought of combination attacks have never crossed my mind until now". Maxie said as he grew a fascinated grin, something that made Ash and Pikachu smirk at him. "Glad to hear that we gave you a firsthand experience with something, but we're not done with you just yet". Ash told the leader of Team Magma, rearing his left hand in as he spoke. "Dragonite, Dragon Claw one more time!" The Rainbow Hero commanded, still going on the attack.

Dragonite narrowed her eyes as the light-green aura reappeared over the arms, taking the form of claw-like shapes. Dragonite then flew towards her opponent once more, holding Dragon Claw out to the sides. "Overconfidence will be your downfall one day, and here's proof of that. Crobat, Cross Poison attack". The leader of Team Magma commanded his Poison and Flying type. "Cro..." Maxie's Bat Pokémon exclaimed, crossing its wings over its face as they started glowing purple. A purple 'X' then appeared in front of its crossed wings, and it opened its wings, firing the 'X' at Dragonite.

Thanks to her increased speed, Dragonite had closed the distance, but unfortunately that left her no time to dodge. Cross Poison landed a direct hit and created an explosion that covered the female Dragon Pokémon from view. "Dragonite!" Ash exclaimed in concern, looking up towards the cloud of smoke left from Cross Poison hitting. "Pika-pi!" Pikachu cried out, staring up at the cloud of smoke as well.

Much to their relief, Dragonite flew out of the smoke and down to the bridge, landing in front of Ash and Pikachu. However, she had a few scratches on her body, a sign of the damage she took from Cross Poison. "It's true that increasing Dragonite's speed will allow Dragonite to attack faster than Crobat. However, that also reduces your chances of dodging. Now Crobat, use Roost". Maxie commanded, bringing his right hand into the air.

Crobat flew above its trainer and gave a growl, before it began glowing brightly as it healed itself. Ash narrowed his eyes in annoyance at seeing this since all the damage Dragonite's done to Crobat was getting reduced to nothing. 'Darn it. If this keeps up, Dragonite will eventually run out of energy while Crobat can keep on healing itself. Guess we'll have to take it out in one hit then'. The Pallet Town boy thought to himself, putting his right hand into his pants' pocket for a moment, and then brought it out, only now he had something in hand.

It was the Dragonium Z. Pikachu looked down at his best friend's hands as Ash placed the Z-Crystal on the Z-Power Ring. The Rainbow Hero then looked at Dragonite's back. "Dragonite". Ash said to the Dragon and Flying type, catching Dragonite's attention as she looked over the shoulder to her trainer. "Get ready. Time to see if all that training has paid off". The Rainbow Hero told the female Dragon Pokémon, before lifting his left arm to show the Z-Powered Ring around the wrist.

Dragonite immediately knew what Ash was telling her and grew an excited smile. Ash has been training her, Trevenant, Donphan, Kingler and Primeape on how to use Z-Moves ever since he transferred them over from Pallet Town. She was the only one that could do a Z-Move with the Z-Crystals the Rainbow Hero currently has, but he wanted the others to been ready when the time came. And for Dragonite, the time has come to attempt her first Z-Move.

(Pokémon Sun & Moon - Type: Wild (SM144 Mix)

Dragonite faced forward, face displaying determination as she wanted to pull this off successfully. The Rainbow Hero meanwhile brought his hands up in front of them and crossed them in an X shape position, before the Dragonium Z on his Z-Powered Ring activated. Ash began moving his arms with Dragonite copying his movements. Ash drew his arms outward in a circle. Once they reached his hips, he extends his arms forward with the left arm overlapping the other in a V-shape. From the v, he extends his arms backwards to the right side of his shoulder with his hands open like a mouth.

Ash brought them forward again, a purplish-blue aura appearing around him as he spread both hands out wide. The aura surrounding Ash shot up into the air and came down on Dragonite, engulfing her in an aura of the same colour. The Z-Power symbol appeared in front of Dragonite and flashed with energy, while the aura surrounding Ash and Pikachu was fully absorbed into Dragonite. Maxie watched with a fascinated look in his eyes, truly mesmerized by what he was seeing.

He wasn't the only one. Archie and the mystery girl both watched with wide eyes of wonder, having never seen anything like this before. "Go Dragonite! Use Devastating Drake!" Ash cried out, bringing his right hand down and pointed the index finger forward. Dragonite cried out to the heavens, forming a purple orb of energy in front of its body.

She thrust her hands forward, firing the orb up towards Crobat. The orb then changes into the shape of a dragon. The energy dragon flew around a bit, before heading straight towards the wide-eyed Crobat. Upon contact, the dragon exploded with Maxie's Bat Pokémon completely covered from view. "Crobat!" Maxie exclaimed in concern, finally losing his emotionless look and replace it with one of panic and concern. "Looks like I finally broke through that emotionless face you had". Ash remarked with a confident smirk. "Pika-pika!" Pikachu commented, smirking at Team Magma's leader as well.

The explosion was gone and had left behind a cloud of smoke. Crobat came falling down the cloud of smoke, scratches all over it, and crashed down on the bridge in front of its trainer. Maxie looked down at his Bat Pokémon, where he saw Crobat's eyes showing swirls. The adult man widened his eyes slightly at seeing his Poison and Flying type defeated, but regained his composure and adjusted his glasses.

"I am honestly amazed. I didn't think you'd be able to defeat one of my Pokémon. I made a mistake underestimating you". Team Magma's boss confessed, holding up Crobat's enlarged Poké Ball and recalled Crobat. "I kinda have a thing for exceeding someone's expectations. And the same goes for my Pokémon". Ash told the leader of Team Magma, slightly holding up his left fist. Pikachu and Dragonite cried out in agreement to their trainer's words.

The mystery girl watching had an expression of amazement on her face. True, she was looking forward to seeing Ash battle, but honestly didn't expect him to get a lead on Team Magma's boss. "This kid... He's really something else. I hope to see more of what he can do". She said to herself, crouching down and gave a toothy smirk.

Archie, on the other hand, was laughing like a mad man at seeing his nemesis losing to a child that wasn't even 13-years-old yet. "I should have brought my camera with me to take pictures of this. This is like literal gold to see". Team Aqua's boss remarked with a wide grin. wanting to see more of this battle between Ash and Maxie.

Ash turned his head to give the Meteorite a quick glance, then towards Maxie. "Do you feel like giving up that Meteorite now?" The Rainbow Hero asked the adult man, which Maxie lightly shook his head in response. "No, I don't. In fact, the only thing I'm feeling right now is amusement". The red-haired man replied, then grew a smirk at Ash, Pikachu and Dragonite. He stepped to the left, slightly turning left and held up his right hand, an enlarged Poké Ball in hand.

"You've amused me greatly, let's see if you can continue when I use this. My strongest Pokémon; Camerupt!" He roared out and tossed the device into the air, the eyes of Ash, Pikachu and Dragonite traced on it. The Poké Ball spun around for a few seconds, until it suddenly stopped and unleashed a powerful white beam. The beam went over Ash, Pikachu and Dragonite and slammed into the solid ground of the volcano, kicking up a bit of dust.

The Rainbow Hero and his Pokémon turned around, just as the beam cleared to reveal Maxie's super powerful Camerupt. "Camerupt!" The Eruption Pokémon roared out, creating a powerful gust of wind that Ash struggled to keep his ground, while Pikachu held on tight to his best friend's shoulder to not get sent flying. "Okay, now this is something else entirely!" Ash said through gritted teeth, holding onto his hat so that he wouldn't lose it.

Once the powerful gust of wind died down completely, Ash brought out his Pokédex with the left rand while Pikachu sighed in relief from Ash's shoulder. The Rainbow Hero activated the device, scanning the Fire and Ground type with it. "Camerupt, the Eruption Pokémon. Camerupt have volcanoes inside their bodies, which can erupt and spew lava from the humps on their back when angry". Ash's Pokédex gave out information about the Eruption Pokémon.

(Music end)

Ash lifted his eyes from the Pokédex to Maxie's Camerupt. He gave a smirk as the device deactivated in his hand. "Lucky me, because I have an insurance policy for something like this. Dragonite, Aqua Tail go!" Ash commanded, swiping his left hand out to the side with the Pokédex still in hand. Dragonite narrowed both eyes as water appeared and surged around her tail. She then spread both wings and ascended into the air, before flying down towards Camerupt to land a direct hit with Aqua Tail.

Maxie's face displayed no emotion, even as Ash's Dragon Pokémon drew closer to Camerupt. Speaking of the Eruption Pokémon, it too showed no emotion as it stared up at Dragonite. Then, the leader of Team Magma acted. "Camerupt, use Yawn". Maxie commanded, much to Ash's alarm as he widened both eyes and looked over his left shoulder towards the older male. "What!?" He exclaimed, then turned back to look forward.

Camerupt opened its mouth and released multiple white bubbles at Dragonite. The female Dragon and Flying type widened both eyes in alarm as the bubbles came right up to her face and popped. Dragonite grew a drowsy face, before falling asleep completely. The water surrounding her trail disappeared as she fell and crashed into the ground, sliding against it to Camerupt.

The Eruption Pokémon hopped left out of the way as its sleeping opponent slide past it, before eventually stopping. Ash and Pikachu stared down at the sleeping Dragon Pokémon with wide eyes, while Maxie gave a smirk. "Well done. Now, Flash Cannon". Team Magma's leader ordered with a calm voice. "Camerupt!" The Fire and Ground type roared out, opening its mouth and unleashed a white beam of energy with light blue energy. Flash Cannon landed an easy strike on Dragonite and created an explosion that covered her from view.

Fortunately, or unfortunately, the explosion cleared to reveal Dragonite still lying down on the ground fast asleep and not groaning with swirls in its eyes. "Dragonite, wake up!" Ash cried out with a worried voice, hoping that his Dragon Pokémon would wake up and fight back. "Pika-pikachu!" Pikachu cried, both hands at the sides of his mouth. However, their voices didn't reach the female Dragon Pokémon since she was still snoring peacefully.

Maxie grew a smirk at seeing this. "Too bad for you, my young friend, your dragon has met its match. Camerupt, Fire Blast!" The leader of Team Magma shouted out, giving the final command. The Eruption Pokémon cried out to the heavens, and then released a 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire from its mouth at Dragonite. And just like with Flash Cannon, Fire Blast landed an easy hit and exploded. Fire Blast created a fierce explosion, the gust of wind pushing Ash back a step.

"Dragonite!" The Rainbow Hero exclaimed in concern. "Pika pika!" The Electric Mouse cried out in concern for the female Dragon Pokémon. The smoke from the explosion cleared to reveal Dragonite lying down on the ground, but unlike last time, her eyes were open and were showing swirls in them. Ash slightly narrowed his eyes at seeing his Dragon and Flying type unable to battle anymore, while Pikachu stared at Dragonite with sad eyes.

The Rainbow Hero brought out Dragonite's Poké Ball and held it out with his right hand towards Dragonite. "Thank you for everything Dragonite, return". Ash said with a grateful voice, firing a red beam from the device's center at Dragonite and recalled her. Once she was fully recalled, Ash turned the device over and smiled down at it. "You were awesome out there. Take a nice long rest". He said to the device with a voice full of gratitude, before putting it away in his pocket.

"So... What kind of Pokémon will you send out next to battle my Camerupt?" Maxie questioned the Rainbow Hero, smiling deviously at the younger male. Ash didn't turn to face the boss of Team Magma, instead he looked at Pikachu with a confident look. "Pikachu, ready?" Ash asked his Electric Mouse Pokémon, catching Pikachu's attention as he looked over to Ash. Pikachu grew a confident smirk at the Rainbow Hero, and then nodded his head. "Pikachu pika". The Electric type answered, before facing forward and leaped off of Ash's shoulder and landed on all four feet.

Maxie raised an eyebrow at seeing this, while Pikachu ran to the solid ground that the bridge was connected to. "You chose an unevolved Pokémon, an Electric type even, to face off against my fully evolved Camerupt, an Earth type... Why?" Team Magma's leader questioned the Rainbow Hero why he chose a Pokémon that was at a disadvantage against Camerupt. Ash slowly turned around to face Maxie, while Pikachu stopped 10 feet across Camerupt and turned to face it.

(Play Through the Fire - Sonic and the Black Knight [OST])

"A Pokémon battle is more than just type advantage, or evolution. It is a battle of spirits, both of the trainers and Pokémon". The Rainbow Hero said with conviction, swiping his left hand up and pointed at Maxie with the index finger. "When my Pokémon and I battle, we battle with all our spirit! Win or lose, we'll have no regrets we fought with our everything!" Ash added, unintentionally tapping into his powers of the Rainbow Hero as both eyes burned a rainbow colour for an instant.

Maxie widened his eyes slightly for two different reasons. The first was because of Ash's words, and the second was because of seeing Ash's eyes glow like that. Team Magma's leader then grew a small smile full of excitement as they resonated with him somehow. "Haha... You never fail to entertain me! Very well then, let's see if you can back up that talk! Then, permit me to unleash my full strength!" Team Magma's commander said with a voice full of spirit, bringing up his left hand and brought it close to his glasses.

"Huh?" Ash raised an eyebrow, wondering just what Maxie meant by that. The leader of Team Magma chuckled in response at the Rainbow Hero. "Once you've tasted my Pokémon's Mega Evolved power, you will say good-bye to your last shred of hope". Maxie said with a confident voice, much to Ash's alarm at what he said. "Did you say Mega Evolve?!" The Pallet Town boy question in alarm, catching Pikachu's attention as he looked over to Ash with wide eyes.

Maxie chuckled in response, then pressed on the Key Stone attached to his glasses, causing it to let out a powerful burst of energy and rainbow flash, followed by four streams of energy shooting out. Camerupt roared up to the heavens, a Cameruptite Mega Stone floating down out of nowhere to in front of the Eruption Pokémon, lightly glowing an orange colour.

The Mega Stone released a flash of energy, before four light blue streams of energy came out of the Cameruptite. The eight streams of energy connected with each other, as if connecting Maxie and Camerupt with one another with the Eruption Pokémon glowing a bright pink colour as it Mega Evolved. Camerupt began undergoing the transformation of Mega Evolution.

The pink colour soon cleared as the Mega Evolution transformation ended, revealing the Mega Camerupt. As Mega Camerupt, the humps on its back have transformed into one large and a very active volcano. Its fur had expanded and grew to a point where only its hooves can be seen, and its ears and the tufts on its head had grown thicker and longer, standing on end. It even gained a gray M on the front of its face and had lost the three blue rings on its body.

The Mega Eruption Pokémon released a powerful roar, the Mega Evolution symbol briefly appearing in front of it for just a moment, before disappearing. Ash turned around and stared at Mega Camerupt with wide eyes, an expression Pikachu matched perfectly.

Meanwhile with Archie, he let out a sharp whistle as he folded both arms. "Well, looks like this kid really got to Maxie if he's going all out like that. The only other person that made him use Mega Evolution was yours truly. Let's see how well this pipsqueak does now". He said with an eager voice to see how Ash does against Team Magma's leader at full strength. The mystery girl was silent, but was watching more intensely now.

Ash's lips twitched upwards for a moment, before he grew a smirk. "Pikachu, you ready for this?" The Rainbow Hero asked the Electric Mouse, looking through the corner of his eyes. Pikachu grew his own confident smirk as he faced down the Mega Evolved Pokémon. "Pikachu-pi pika!" Pikachu answered with an eager voice, sparks of electricity leaking out of his cheeks.

(Music end/ Now play Fight the Knight - Sonic and the Black Knight [OST])

Maxie chuckled in amusement once more, before swiping his right arm out. "Camerupt, use Fire Blast!" The leader of Team Magma ordered his Fire and Ground type. The Eruption Pokémon cried out to the heavens, and then released a 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire from its mouth towards Pikachu. "Pikachu, counter that with Thunderbolt!" Ash called out as he spun around and swiped his right arm out.

"Pika...CHU!" The Electric Mouse exclaimed, closing both eyes and unleashed a bolt of yellow and blue electricity from its body. Fire Blast and Thunderbolt clashed against one another, struggling to overpower one another, until their clash created an explosion that canceled each other. "Pika pika!" Pikachu cried out, running forward to Camerupt on all four feet.

Maxie's eyes narrowed slightly at seeing Pikachu charging towards Camerupt, but gave his next command. "Earth Power, go". Maxie commanded with a calm voice. "Camerupt!" The Mega Evolved Pokémon cried out, its body beginning to glow gold, and the ground all around it started to shake, with glowing gold cracks spreading all around it.

"Pikachu, jump and use Iron Tail". Ash called out, throwing his right fist into the air above. "Pika!" The Electric Mouse cried as its tail began to glow a bright white light. When Pikachu was right about to run into the glowing ground, he leaped up high into the air. Pikachu then started spinning forwards in a fast rate as it fell towards Mega Camerupt, and then slammed a solid Iron Tail on its face. Maxie's Eruption Pokémon flinched and even moved back an inch, while Pikachu leaped backwards and safely landed on nongolden glowing ground.

"Impressive, but hopeless. Yawn, go". Team Magma's boss ordered, lightly lifting his right hand up. Mega Camerupt's body ceased glowing with the ground no longer glowing, before the Eruption Pokémon opened its mouth and released multiple white bubbles at Pikachu. "Pika-pi!" Pikachu exclaimed in alarm, having no wish to take an unexpected nap. "Pikachu, use Thunderbolt to pop all those bubbles before they get close!" The Rainbow Hero called out, throwing his right hand out to his right.

"Pika...CHU!" The Electric Mouse exclaimed as he leaped up high into the air, closed both eyes and unleashed several bolts of yellow and blue electricity from its body. Thunderbolt spread out and moved around to all the bubbles drawing close to Pikachu, popping all the close ones. However, because Pikachu was occupied with the bubbles, he was wide open for an attack. "Now, Flash Cannon". Team Magma's leader ordered with a calm voice. "Camerupt!" The Fire and Ground type roared out, opening its mouth and unleashed a white beam of energy with light blue energy.

Flash Cannon slammed into Pikachu's front, causing him to groan in pain as it ceased using Thunderbolt, before getting blasted higher into the air. But fortunately, Pikachu still had a lot of energy to battle as he back flipped and landed on all four. "You okay Pikachu?" Ash asked his best friend, catching Pikachu's attention as he looked over to the Rainbow Hero with a confident smirk. "Pikachu pi". Ash's Electric Mouse answered, something that made Ash smirk down at his best friend.

"That's what I like to hear, buddy". The Rainbow Hero stated, bringing up his left fist. "Fire Blast now". Maxie commanded with a calm voice, pointing forward with his right hand's index finger. The Eruption Pokémon cried out to the heavens, and then fired a 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire from its mouth. Ash and Pikachu turned towards the approaching attack, before Ash pointed forward with his left hand's index finger.

"Pikachu, dodge and then use Focus Punch!" The Rainbow Hero called out. "Pika!" The Electric Mouse cried, standing up on two feet. Then, surprisingly a huge wave of water appeared from behind the Electric Mouse and came crashing down on the ground in front of Pikachu, heading forward. Maxie widened his eyes in surprise, while Ash gave an impressed whistle at this unexpected turn of events.

The wave of water and 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire clashed against one another, before the water overpowered Fire Blast and went on ahead and struck Mega Camerupt. The Eruption Pokémon yelled in pain, getting pushed back by the water a few feet until it disappeared, revealing Mega Camerupt still standing, but had its eyes closed. Maxie's Fire and Ground type opened its eyes and glared towards Pikachu with anger for the surprising attack.

Pikachu, on the other hand, grinned as he fell down onto all four feet. "Well, I was expecting Focus Punch, but this works for me. I have to say, you learning Surf right now is honestly good timing". Ash remarked with a pleased smirk, recognizing the move that Pikachu just used as Surf. He then brought out his Pokédex once more and activated. Ash scanned Pikachu with it to see what move Surf replace and saw that it was Focus Punch that was the one. "Well... I'd say it's a fair trade". The Rainbow Hero stated, deactivating the device and put it away.

"Surf, one more time!" Ash exclaimed, rearing in his right hand and then swiped it out forward. "Pika!" The Electric type cried out, throwing both hands into the air and summoned a huge wave of water that went over him and came down, heading towards Mega Camerupt. Maxie narrowed both eyes at seeing this, before pointing directly down. "Camerupt, use Earth Power defense style". The red-haired adult ordered, catching Ash off guard at what he said.

Mega Camerupt's body briefly flashes with yellow energy, then slammed its front left leg down hard on the ground, creating glowing gold cracks that travelled forward. The gold cracks went underneath the wave of water, before it began growing smaller. Ash slightly widened his eyes, watching the wave of water continued to shrink, before eventually disappearing completely into the gold cracks. 'He used Earth Power to flush Surf down like a toilet!' The Rainbow Hero shouted out inside his mind, lips twitching upwards once more.

(Music end)

"Now, Fire Blast attack with more power!" Maxie commanded, having had enough of playing around like this. "Camerupt!" The Eruption Pokémon cried to the sky above, and then fired out a 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire from its mouth at Pikachu. "You want a replay of last time, huh? You've got one! Thunderbolt Pikachu, go!" The Rainbow Hero told his best friend, punching the air with his right fist. "Pika...CHU!" The Electric Mouse exclaimed, closing both eyes and unleashed a bolt of yellow and blue electricity from its body.

Fire Blast and Thunderbolt clashed against one another, however unlike last time, Mega Camerupt's attack started pushing through Thunderbolt. It eventually broke through completely and landed a direct hit on Pikachu, creating an explosion that covered the Electric Mouse from view. Ash's body lightly shook, something that Maxie took notice of. He looked over to the young boy and saw Ash's body starting to shake.

The Leader of Team Magma grew a smirk at seeing this, believing it was a sign that Ash had fallen into despair and was now filled with fear. "So, you've succumbed to fear, have you? That is to be expected when facing me". Maxie said with a grin, bringing up his right hand and adjusted the glasses. The Rainbow Hero said nothing in response, his head tilted down with both eyes covered by his hat's bill.

"How does it feel to be hopeless against my power. You came here to stop me, but can't because you're not strong enough. That is the fear you're feeling, the fear of being helpless". Maxie added, getting Ash to slightly tilt his head upwards yet his eyes still weren't visible. "Fear?" He questioned, something that Maxie nodded his head at. "That's right. You're afraid of Team Magma, no, my power that far surpasses your power. You're so afraid that you can't move, or react. I'm not a man without mercy. Surrender and I'll allow you to leave". Team Magma's leader told the Pallet Town boy, wanting to break Ash's spirit for wasting his time.

The Rainbow Hero was silent until he gave out a small laugh, something that made Maxie widened both eyes in surprise. The mystery girl watched with an intense expression, while Archie narrowed both eyes at Ash. "What are you laughing about?" The leader of Team Magma questioned the younger male, lightly gritting his teeth since he thought fear had consumed him.

"Why? Why am I laughing you say?" Ash questioned the older male in response. "Tell me!" Maxie demanded, losing a bit of his expressionless face of how he was made a fool of. "I gotta be honest here. Because you're just hilarious". The Rainbow Hero answered, much to Maxie's slight anger at what he said. "I beg your pardon?" Team Magma's leader questioned, anger leaking out of his voice.

"You heard me. I'm not scared of you at all!" Ash exclaimed, fully tilting his head up to reveal both eyes that had no fear inside them, only excitement and resolve. "The only thing I'm afraid of is losing to YOU! PIKACHU, IRON TAIL!" The Rainbow Hero shouted out towards the large smoke left behind by Fire Blast, releasing a wave of rainbow energy. "Wha-!" Maxie cried out in surprise, before shielding his face with both of his forearms.

(Play Counterattack | Beyblade Metal Fusion OST)

A damaged, yet still conscious Pikachu shot out of the large cloud of smoke towards Mega Camerupt. "PIKA!" The Electric Mouse shouted out, tail flashing into a powerful white glowing colour, before he spun around and slammed Iron Tail into Camerupt's left cheek. The force of the attack was so powerful it bashed Camerupt's face to the side and pushed it back by 5 feet, all the while Camerupt crying out with both eyes shut.

"The only thing I'm scared of is letting you guys make a mistake and endanger innocent people and Pokémon!" Ash shouted out, spinning around to face the older male with a fierce face. Maxie gasped in disbelief as he took 2 steps back from the Rainbow Hero, no trace of his emotionless face visible now. "Us making a mistake? That's what you fear? Even though I just showed you the difference in power between our Pokémon? Tell me why won't you back down? Why don't you fear me?" Maxie questioned the Pallet Town boy, sounding almost driven mad.

"Difference between our Pokémon's strength? I'll admit that your Mega Evolution was a surprise, I panicked for a moment. I was suddenly driven to a corner with no way to hit back, but when my Pokémon and I battle such a stronger opponent, rather than getting scared I get excited. True that I've changed a bit this last year and a half, but my spirit as a Pokémon trainer has never changed!" The Rainbow Hero said with conviction, bringing up his right fist that represented the excitement he was feeling.

Maxie's eyes began twitching at the ridiculous answer that he got. "How could you get excited?" The adult man questioned Ash, an expression like he was about to lose all sense of sanity at any moment. "Well, it's like it really wakes me up. Losing focus just because my Pokémon and I were chased into a corner, isn't like us". The Rainbow Hero explained, then swiped his right fist up. "I like to fight back!" He added, while Pikachu leaped from the ground to Camerupt's face and landed another Iron Tail attack, ricocheting to the right, while the Electric Mouse landed on the ground.

Pikachu wasn't done yet as he began a barrage of leaping from the ground and over again, landing Iron Tail after Iron Tail with the Eruption Pokémon's face ricocheting again and again. Mega Camerupt attempted to stomp on Pikachu, yet the Electric type was too fast and kept up his assault on the Eruption Pokémon. "That's the way my Pokémon and I battle!" Ash remarked as Pikachu landed another Iron Tail right on Mega Camerupt's forehead, pushing him back again.

Ash gave a grin full of spirit, all the while his eyes began glowing a rainbow colour. "If 1 hit isn't enough, then 10 hits! 100 hits! 1000 hits!" The Rainbow Hero cried out as Pikachu jumped up into Camerupt's face and began spinning very quickly, unleashing a barrage of Iron Tails one after another right on Camerupt, much to its pain and annoyance at the constant attacks. "Huh?" Maxie took a step back, staring right at Ash's rainbow glowing eyes in wonder and disbelief.

"We'll strike as many times as it takes!" Ash exclaimed, swiping out the right hand to the side as Pikachu finished its barrage with one last Iron Tail, pushing the Eruption Pokémon back by 10 feet. But the Electric Mouse Pokémon wasn't done yet, right as it landed on the ground, he leaped towards Mega Camerupt, beginning another assault of Iron Tails.

The mystery girl had wide eyes of surprise, watching the Rainbow Hero beginning to out match Team Magma's leader. 'Awesome... That kid is awesome. He's landing one strike after another, giving his opponent no time to counterattack. Iron Tail may not be very effective, but repeatedly attacking will surely cause damage to Camerupt'. She thought, amazed at how Ash turned the tide of the battle around to his side.

Archie, on the other hand, was laughing a bit crazy at seeing his nemesis losing his mind. "Hahaha! I should have brought a recorder with me! This feels like my birthday to see Maxie go crazy like that! I'm gonna enjoy this whole thing while I can!" Team Aqua's boss laughed out, folding both arms in mid-speech.

(Music end)

"PIKA!" Pikachu shouted out, jumping up and spun around to slam another Iron Tail right on Mega Camerupt's forehead, pushing it back 10 feet this time and through a boulder, crashing it into pieces. Ash chuckled as he gave a wide grin at Maxie, while Team Magma's eye continued to twitch in an uncontrolled manner. "Stop making a fool out of me! You should be trembling before my great power! Camerupt!" Maxie shouted out, throwing his right hand to the side.

Mega Camerupt opened its eyes to reveal the fierce look inside of them, before roaring out to the sky above. It then charged forward towards Pikachu in an attempt to stomp on it, but the Electric Mouse leaped back and dodged successfully with Camerupt's right front foot smashing into the solid ground. The Eruption Pokémon continued trying to stomp on Pikachu, who continued to leap back do dodge.

Despite the turn of events, Ash still looked confident as he smirked at the boss of Team Magma. "Typical moves, I was expecting more". The raven-haired boy stated, much to Maxie's further rage at how his young opponent still wasn't filled with despair. "You're still smiling?" He questioned the Rainbow Hero, which Ash nodded. "Yeah. Because you're strong". He answered, getting Maxie to blink in surprise at the unexpected answer.

(Final Showdown | Beyblade Metal Fusion OST)

"The stronger the opponent, the more exciting... the battle is!" Ash exclaimed, holding up his right fist as a rainbow coloured aura appeared over him. Pikachu landed on all four feet, before giving a determined cry as he leaped towards Camerupt's head. The Eruption Pokémon reared its head back, then thrust it forward at the same time Pikachu did, resulting in them headbutting each other hard.

The force of impact pushed the two back, but they charged back in and headbutted each other again, beginning a cycle of repeating the actions all over again. "It's because that we get to clash with strong opponents like you, and use all our strength to beat you that makes Pokémon battles fun". Ash explained, speaking from the heart on what he enjoyed the most about Pokémon battles.

Both of Maxie's eyes were now twitching uncontrollably for two reasons. Because of Ash's words, and the strange power he was unintentionally showing. "I'M NOT HAVING ANY FUN!" He shouted out in an uncontrolled voice, just as Pikachu and Mega Camerupt rammed into each other again, only to end with the Eruption Pokémon getting pushed back this time. Maxie's Fire and Ground got pushed back by 15 feet this time, crashing through another boulder. Yet, the two Pokémon didn't let up and charged towards another and headbutted each other again.

"My fun comes from success, accomplishing the steps needed in order to realize my goal of awakening Groudon and using its power to bring forth more land! Things such as battling for fun, spirit, fame or friendship is all worthless to me!" Team Magma's boss cried out, bringing up both arms as he glared towards the rainbow aura covered boy standing just 10 feet away from him. "If I even feel enjoyment in battle, it would be from crushing my enemies completely underneath my boots!" Maxie shouted, tilting his head up and looked straight towards the sky above.

Archie narrowed his eyes at Maxie, unfolding his arms and held them down. "He's gone mad, both from getting outmatched and outsmarted by this kid. I doubt he even has any control over himself now". The pirate man remarked with a serious voice, no longer treating this as some form of entertainment since he could clearly see Maxie was going crazy because of the whole situation. "Watch out kid. He's not playing around anymore". The girl in the Team Aqua outfit whispered to herself, narrowing both of her eyes.

"Camerupt, annihilate that little rodent with a Fire Blast with all your power! Destroy that Pikachu!" Maxie shouted out his command, losing control of himself and only driven by the desire to destroy both Ash and Pikachu. Mega Camerupt got pushed back once more, yet it remained standing as it glared towards the Electric type a few feet away. "Camerupt!" The Eruption Pokémon cried to the sky above, and then fired out a 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire from its mouth.

(Music end)

The Fire Blast soared through the air, heading towards Pikachu with its flames burning intensely. "Burn! Burn to nothing but ashes! See what true despair is when it shakes to your core!" Maxie shouted out, holding his right arm out fully. "That's a really great! Pikachu, spin and use Iron Tail!" Ash cried, turning around and threw out the right arm in a dramatic style.

(Play A Blader's Spirit | Beyblade Metal Fusion OST)

"Pika!" Pikachu exclaimed with a confident grin, rearing down and held up his tail as it began glowing a bright white colour once more. Once its tail was fully charged, Pikachu leaped towards the 大-shaped blast of yellow-orange fire. Once he was close enough, Pikachu suddenly started spinning and actually maneuvered past it.

The sight of what just happened not just surprised Maxie, but both Archie and the mystery girl as well. "Impossible! It spun around to dodge Fire Blast!?" The leader of Team Magma cried out in shock at what he just witnessed.

Pikachu continued on towards Mega Camerupt and slammed Iron Tail on its face again, pushing the Fire and Ground type back. Pikachu landed on all four with its tail losing the white glow, before it leaped towards Camerupt with the Eruption Pokémon charging forward again. The two began the cycle of headbutting each other again, only this time Pikachu was pushing Camerupt back every time they clashed.

The young girl watching suddenly widened her eyes in realization of something. 'Wait a second, that's what he's doing. Pikachu is copying Camerupt's movements like a mirror, aiming at a single spot to make up for the difference in size. But that's not all, Pikachu may not look like it, yet the little guy's strength is a match for Camerupt's strength. Match that with hitting Camerupt at one spot over and over again will both damage it and cancel its attempt to push back. Unreal, that little guy is proof that size isn't everything'. She said inside of her mind, watching Pikachu keep on headbutting Mega Camerupt right on its forehead, damaging it at its weak spot and pushing it back.

Pikachu and Camerupt rammed their heads against each other again, this time sparks of energy appearing from the force of their power, before an explosion was created that covered the two from view. "WHAT IS GOING ON!?" Maxie shouted out in outrage, taking another step back, while Mega Camerupt was pushed out of the smoke created by the explosion, sliding against the ground and stopped when it was 20 feet away. "This can't be happening..." He said in disbelief, looking towards his Mega Pokémon as Camerupt lowered its head, both eyes closed from the damage it took.

Ash turned around to face Maxie, chuckling a little bit at the older male. "Ha, and the best part is that Pikachu still hasn't gone all out just yet". The Rainbow Hero informed the boss of Team Magma with a wide smirk, much to Maxie's horror as he took another step back. "It hasn't? How can a little rat like that Pikachu have so much power?" Maxie questioned, shocked that an unevolved Pokémon like a Pikachu could be so powerful.

Ash reared his arms out, crying out as the rainbow coloured aura around him intensified. Ash's back flashed for a second, before clearing to reveal his rainbow angel wings, a sight that left Maxie, Archie and the mystery girl speechless at. The Rainbow Hero spun around and threw out his right arm with both wings spreading out fully. "Here we go! Pikachu!" He cried out with spirit. Pikachu landed on all four feet, before standing up on his two feet. "PIKA...CHU!" Pikachu shouted out to the heavens, a rainbow aura appearing over him as well.

"No, stop that!" Maxie shouted out, looking past Ash towards the Electric Mouse Pokémon. "Combo attack! Pikachu, use Surf and energize it with Thunderbolt!" Ash commanded his best friend, mind feeling as if it was going at lightning speeds upon thinking of a brand-new combo attack. "PIKA!" Pikachu yelled, summoning a big wave of water only this time underneath him and ride on it like he was surfing. The Electric Mouse then let out sparks of electricity from its cheeks to the water underneath it, the two attacks working together as Surf now had electricity dancing over it.

(Music end)

"Stop it, no!" Maxie pleaded, unable to do anything but watch as the electric surged wave of water came down hard on Camerupt and covered it from view. Suddenly, Team Magma's boss widened his eyes upon realizing that he was the one afraid. "Impossible! I'm the one filled with fear towards this child?!" He questioned in disbelief that somehow, he was the one that became afraid instead of Ash.

Pikachu leaped off of the water high into the air, right before the electric surged surf turned into a big and powerful explosion. Ash and Maxie stared as the explosion died down, Ash's wings and aura disappearing with his eyes returning to normal. Soon the explosion had died down completely, revealing the collapsed form of Mega Camerupt, swirls visible in its eyes. Pikachu fell from the sky, landing safely on his two feet just as an orange dome of energy appeared over Camerupt's body, and quickly cleared to reveal the Eruption Pokémon back in its normal form.

Maxie, Archie and the mystery girl all stared in shock at seeing the outcome of the battle, while Ash gave a bright grin at his best friend. "Way to go, Pikachu!" The Rainbow Hero praised the Electric Mouse, catching Pikachu's attention as he turned and smiled at Ash. "Pika pikachu". The Electric type thanked its best friend, proud of himself for defeating such a powerful Pokémon like a Mega Camerupt.

Maxie wordlessly recalled Camerupt to its Poké Ball, face still displaying shock that his strongest Pokémon was defeated. "This...can't be... How can I be defeated by some boy?" He questioned, looking down at the device in his left hand that Camerupt was resting within. He lifted his head up towards Ash and stared at the boy. 'Then again, this "boy" may not be normal at all. That power he showed... it was unlike anything I've ever seen. Is he even human?' Team Magma's leader questioned inside his mind, recalling the sight he witnessed just seconds ago.

"Sir!" A familiar voice cried out, catching the attention of everyone in the air. They looked and saw Tabitha ran into view and stop 5 feet away from the bridge. "Tabitha..." Maxie said with a small voice, surprised to see his right-hand man here. Pikachu ran up in between Tabitha and the bridge, where he glared at the adult man with electricity sparking out of his cheeks.

The Admin of Team Magma glared towards Ash, who stared at him with eyes slightly narrowed. "You've got some nerve to stand in our way, kid, but you're gonna regret it right now!" Tabitha exclaimed, bringing up an enlarged Ultra Ball with his right hand. "You're welcome to try!" The Rainbow Hero responded to the older male, bringing out an enlarged Poké Ball with his right hand.

Maxie stared at the back of Ash's head, then towards his trusted right-hand man. 'If Tabitha and I work together, then we can defeat this young man. It is perhaps our best chance'. He thought to himself, reaching into his coat to pick up another one of his Pokémon's Poké Balls to let loose on Ash. However, he was stopped when the radio in his other coat's pocket started ringing. The sounds caught the attention of Ash, Tabitha and Pikachu as they looked at Maxie.

Ringing also started coming from Archie, but unlike with Maxie, he was too far away for anyone to hear. He quickly took the radio out and brought it to his right ear. He pressed on the button, causing the ringing to stop. "What is it?!" He hissed out, making sure to stay as quiet as possible to not draw unwanted attention. What he heard though made him widened his eyes in surprise. "Wha-are you certain?" Archie questioned, wanting to be sure he didn't mishear what he heard.

Back with Maxie, he brought out his radio with the left hand. He turned around and pressed on the button, before bringing it to his ear. "Yes, it's me... Oh? Then it is Mt. Pyre". The red-haired man said in surprise, not noticing Ash narrowing his eyes at what he said. 'Mt. Pyre?' The Rainbow Hero thought, wondering what could be there that interests Maxie. "I understand. I will come at once". Maxie said, before ending the call and put the radio away in his coat's pocket.

The leader of Team Magma turned around, looking sane again, and looked towards his right-hand man. "Tabitha, we are leaving". Maxie told his right-hand man, much to Tabitha's surprise while Ash and Pikachu widened their eyes. "What!? But sir, we can't just leave after all the trouble these kids have given us! Besides, the Meteorite-" The Admin said, only to be cut off by his leader. "Is no longer of any use to us". Maxie told Tabitha with a cold serious voice which shut the Admin up immediately.

"Contact Courtney and Blaise. We are to leave immediately". Maxie told his right-hand man, folding both hands behind his back as he spoke. "...Yes sir..." Tabitha replied, putting the Ultra Ball away. He turned around and brought his right hand to the earpiece in the right eye to inform the other Admins of Team Magma their orders, while Maxie looked at Ash. "I am sorry to cut our battle short, but I'm afraid I must excuse myself". Team Magma's boss told the Rainbow Hero, causing Ash to narrow his eyes fully.

He turned around to fully face the adult man, while Pikachu jumped onto his left shoulder. "And what makes you think I'm just gonna let you guys leave?" Ash questioned Maxie since he had no intention of letting him get away. "Pika-pika". Pikachu remarked, still having more energy to continue battling. Maxie just chuckled in response to Ash's question with a growing grin. "Because you won't have any reason to battle me anymore". Team Magma's leader answered, getting Ash to slightly tilt his head in confusion at what he said.

"Such rudeness demands reparation. Take this Meteorite with my apologies". Maxie said as he walked up to the energy absorber machine and placed his right hand on a screen. Maxie's hand was scanned, before the Meteorite came down from view inside the class container. A part of the machine opened, before the Meteorite was injected out. The leader of Team Magma took the Meteorite into his hands, then turned to look at Ash. "You may do with it what you like". He told the young boy, proceeding to walk up to him.

Maxie stopped right in front of Ash, then held the rock out to him, offering it to the Rainbow Hero. Ash looked up directly at Maxie's face with a suspicious expression, but still took the Meteorite from him. "...I'll be seeing you again, count on that". The Rainbow Hero told Maxie, much to his amusement. "I look forward to our next encounter". Team Magma's boss stated, before walking past Ash with the eyes of the Rainbow Hero and Pikachu glued to him.

Maxie didn't slow his pace when he was close to Tabitha and instead walked past him. The Admin quickly followed behind his leader, ignoring the eyes of Ash and Pikachu. Eventually, they disappeared from sight, leaving Ash and Pikachu, and unknown to them, Archie and the mystery girl.

Speaking of Team Aqua's leader, Archie had a dark smirk on his face as he put away the radio. Just like his nemesis, he had just been informed that his subordinates had located something very important to his plans at Mt. Pyre as well. He gave a dark chuckle. "Oh, things are getting interesting. Soon, this world will be returned to its naturel state thanks to Kyogre". Team Aqua's boss said with an eager voice, before directing his gaze to Ash. 'And maybe this boy could play an important role. I should keep an eye on him'. Archie thought to himself, before he turned around and walked away.

Ash and Pikachu kept staring in the direction that Team Magma's boss and leader, the Rainbow Hero thinking about what Maxie said. 'Mt. Pyre? Just what could he want there?' Ash thought to himself, before looking down at the Meteorite in his hands. 'And why leave the Meteorite, something he and his organization have been fighting hard to obtain, with me? Is there something else that has a connection to Groudon?' He added, wondering just what Maxie was up to now after he just abandoned something important as the Meteorite.

Suddenly out of nowhere, a rainbow glow erupted from Ash's left pocket. Both Ash and Pikachu gasped in surprise, before the Rainbow Hero placed his hand in the pocket and pulled out the source of the glow. It was the Rainbow Wing, and its glowing grew stronger out in the open. "What's going on? Why's the Rainbow Wing reacting like this?" The raven-haired boy questioned, staring at his most important item that he was holding. A smaller rainbow glow from below then caught the attention of Ash and Pikachu.

They looked down and saw that it was the Meteorite that Ash was now carrying with his right hand. "The Meteorite? Is it somehow resonating with the Rainbow Wing?" Ash questioned, before he and Pikachu cried out as the Meteorite glowed so bright that its form was covered. The Meteorite then changed somehow, its shape changing yet not too much as it kept some of its old features. Eventually, the glowing from both the Rainbow Wing and Meteorite died down, allowing Ash and Pikachu to see what had happened.

Ho-Oh's feather was still the same, no changes about it as it was no longer glowing. The same couldn't be said about the Meteorite though as it had changed. It still looked a little bit like it did before, but now it had lost its sharp ends and had a smoother side. It was more of a white colour now as well, looking more like a stone than a rock. Finally, it was giving off a faint glow. (Meteorite in second form)

Ash and Pikachu stared down in awe at the evolved Meteorite. "Wow... The Rainbow Wing must have somehow evolved the Meteorite, but why?" The Rainbow Hero questioned, turning his gaze to the Rainbow Wing. "That's something I wanna know too". An unfamiliar voice said from behind Ash, catching him and Pikachu by surprise. The Rainbow Hero quickly spun around and saw that the mystery girl standing a few feet behind him, just one step away from walking onto the bridge.

The female girl closed both eyes and gave a friendly grin at Ash, even placing her left hand on the hip. "Hi there". She greeted Ash and Pikachu with a wave of her right hand, while the two best friends stared at her in curiosity. 'A Team Aqua grunt?' The Rainbow Hero questioned inside his mind, before widened both eyes upon feeling something from the girl. Her presence, it was exactly the one he felt back in Meteor Falls.

"You... You were at Meteor Falls, weren't you?" Ash questioned the girl, narrowing his eyes as he spoke. The girl blinked in surprise, before giving an impressed smile at the Kanto boy. "Wow, you knew I was there? You're pretty sharp, you know that?" The girl said with a carefree voice, something that made Ash raise an eyebrow yet kept his guard up. "Are you here for the Meteorite?" The Rainbow Hero questioned, putting away the Rainbow Wing in his pocket. "Pika...!" Pikachu growled at the girl, electricity slightly sparking from its cheeks.

"Oh no, don't worry about that. I honestly have no interest in that thing". The unknown girl answered, waving her left hand in a peaceful manner to show she meant no ill will. "...But you're a member of Team Aqua". Ash pointed out, eyeing her outfit and couldn't help questioning why her stomach was exposed like that.

The girl gave a small nervous laugh as she looked down at her outfit, holding her arms up slightly. "Okay, I admit that you got me there, but I'm not really a member of Team Aqua. I'm just pretending to be one". She told the Rainbow Hero, getting Ash and Pikachu to tilt their heads in confusion.

'Pretending to be a member of Team Aqua? Why?' Ash thought, wondering what this girl's endgame was if it involved her being a part of Team Aqua. "Who are you anyway?" He questioned the girl, wanting to know just who she is. The Team Aqua girl gave a giggle at Ash's question. "Since you asked so nicely, I'll tell you my name". She said, before reaching up and grabbed hold of her outfit by the right shoulder. The mystery girl then tore the outfit off, much like how Team Rocket does it, revealing herself to be wearing a different outfit all together.

She has chin length black hair with a fringe and red eyes, and wore a ragged white cloak with black shoulder pads, gray short shorts with a red rope around the hips serving as her belt. A tight black top with two red crescent lunar symbols on her chest, a pair of knee length gray socks and open toed gray boots. She was also wearing two spherical red earrings, as well as a blue anklet on her right leg.

Ash and Pikachu widened their eyes at the sight before them, while the girl gave a wide smirk at them. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I am Zinnia, one of the last remaining Draconids". The girl called Zinnia, introduced herself to the Rainbow Hero, giving a small humble bow with her left hand out like how a performer would to their audience. "A Draconid?" Ash questioned, having no heard of anything like that before. "You not knowing what a Draconid is, that is to be expected since you're from Kanto". Zinnia stated, straightening herself and grinned at Ash.

"You'll know soon enough. Anyway, that thing you had in your hand, you called it the "Rainbow Wing", right?" The red-eyed woman asked Ash, causing him to break into a small sweat. "And if it was?" He questioned in response, curious to know what her reaction will be that he didn't deny what she heard. Fortunately for Ash, it seemed like Zinnia didn't really know the Rainbow Wing is as she simply looked curious. "Is that so? I'm guessing it also has something to do with those wings I saw you grow when you were battling Maxie". She said as she brought up her right hand and took hold of her chin.

Ash and Pikachu widened their eyes in alarm. 'She saw that?! Crap!' The Rainbow Hero shouted out inside of his mind. Ash's panicking must have been displayed on his face because Zinnia suddenly giggled. "You look cute when you're panicking like that, but don't worry. I won't tell anyone what I saw". Zinnia told the Kanto boy, much to Ash's relief as he let out a sigh while Pikachu eased its gaze at the black-haired girl.

"Besides, that mysterious power of yours could really be useful". The Draconid female stated, something that put Ash and Pikachu back into high alarm as they narrowed their eyes at her. "Useful in what?" Ash questioned Zinnia on what she meant by that. Zinnia chuckled as she stared directly into Ash's eyes. "...In saving our world". She answered, much to the bewilderment of the two best friends.

"Saving the world?" The Rainbow Hero questioned, no idea what she meant by that. "Pika?" Pikachu said in confusion, though he could guess that whatever she meant will require his best friend to save the world again. "I'll tell you when we meet next time. But for now..." Zinnia began, holding up an enlarged Poké Ball with her right hand. The device then burst open and unleashed a powerful white beam that shot up into the air. It then came down and crashed onto the ground behind Zinnia, kicking up a large bit of dust.

The beam cleared to reveal a large and powerful looking Salamence standing on its four feet behind its trainer. Zinnia's Dragon Pokémon let out a very fierce roar, unleashing a powerful gust of wind at Ash and Pikachu. The two almost flinched, bringing up their left arms to cover their eyes. 'That Salamence makes Butler's one look like a Bagon!' Ash shouted out inside of his mind, easily able to tell this Salamence was stronger than the one under Butler's ownership.

Fortunately for the Rainbow Hero, the Dragon and Flying type ceased roaring with the powerful gust of wind dying down. Ash and Pikachu lowered their arms and looked towards Zinnia just in time to see her leap into the air, back flip and land on her Salamence's back on her right foot. "But for now, I need to get things ready for the day that'll require us both. For now, just focus on what you wanna do and get stronger". She told Ash with a carefree voice, while he just frowned in confusion. However, he then spotted something that captured his immediate attention.

Wrapped around Zinnia's right leg was somekind of anklet, but the most attention-grabbing detail was that a Key Stone was attached to it. 'She has a Key Stone!?' The Rainbow Hero shouted in his mind, while Salamence began flapping its wings and lifted itself off of the ground. "We'll see each other soon, maybe hopefully before the time comes. And when we do, I hope we can have a battle". Zinnia bid farewell, before her Salamence took off into the air, flying past the Rainbow Hero.

Ash quickly turned around, him and Pikachu watching the Dragon Pokémon until it eventually disappeared from view. Ash lightly gritted his teeth, before looking down at the Meteorite that his right hand was wrapped around. 'This day has just given me more questions. Just what is that Zinnia girl planning, and what does she mean save the world? Is another world ending threat drawing closer or something? I guess only time will tell'. The Rainbow Hero thought, then turned to look at Pikachu.

"Come on Pikachu. Let's go check up on everyone else". Ash said to his best friend, getting a nod from the Electric Mouse as he was worried about the others. "Pikachu pi-pika". Pikachu responded to Ash, before facing forward. The Rainbow Hero took hold of the evolved Meteorite with both hands, before he took off running to where he left everyone else. 'Hang on guys. We're on our way!' Ash shouted out in his mind, pleading that everyone was alright.

(Back at the battle royal)

Back with the rest of the gang, their battle against Team Magma was still in full swing with Brock's one against Courtney being the most intense one so far. Verity, Sorrel, May, Max, Professor Cozmo, Jessie, James, Piplup, Bouffalant, Aerodactyl, Bagon, Poliwrath, Marshtomp, Throh, Druddigon, Shiny Solrock, Combusken, Gastrodon, Jirachi, Solrock, Gothorita and Cacturne were all battling against grunts and their Pokémon, while Blaise was watching from atop a nearby cliff.

Onix roared and then slammed its tail onto the ground, causing pointed light blue rock pillars to appear out of the ground and rush forward towards Zangoose that was on all four. "Zangoose, break through with Metal Claw!" Courtney ordered, gazing down at her Normal type from the edge of the cliff she's been standing at since she first joined the battle. "Zangoose!" The Normal type cried out, then jumped high into the air.

Zangoose's claws began to glow a silver and white color, before then the glow grows to form a bigger claw shape of silver and white energy around both claws. Zangoose back flipped, before going forwards and began smashing through the light blue rock pillars with Metal Claw, making its way to Onix. "Onix, fight back with Iron Tail!" Brock called out, just as Zangoose broke through the last pillar.

Onix reared up its tail as it began glowing, before it let out a cry and swung its tail. Tail and claw clashed against one another as Zangoose and Onix struggled to overpower one another. Sparks of electric blue energy came out of the two attacks, before Onix and Zangoose were pushed away from one another. The Normal type landed on all four, while Onix kept its balance.

"Dragon Breath, go!" The former Gym Leader ordered. Brock's Rock Snake Pokémon screeched, releasing a blue beam from its mouth towards Zangoose. "Focus Blast to counter, go". Courtney ordered, slowly bringing up her right hand and pointed forward with the index finger. "Zagoose!" The Cat Ferret Pokémon roared, before leaping into the air. It then brought its hands together and formed an orb of yellow energy in between them. Zangoose then thrust its hands out and fired Focus Blast at Dragon Breath.

Both attacks clashed against one another, then quickly created an explosion that canceled each other out. Blaise let out a whistle as he folded both hands. "Darn... These kids are really good. I don't know if they're doing so well because we've slacked off, or because they're just that good. All in all, this is turning out to be a real learning experience". The Shadow of Fire remarked, taking a lot of mental notes to start training the grunts once they're back at base. He was then cut off the by earpiece in his right ear ringing.

Blaise praised against the earpiece to answer the call. "What is it, Tabitha?" He questioned his fellow Admin, only to widen both eyes in surprise at the unexpected answer. "What?! Call back our forces? But we-" Blaise began, only to stop and listen carefully as Tabitha explained to him why they were retreating. After hearing the reason why, Blaise grew an eager grin. "Okay then, that's more than enough reason to. We'll meet up with you and Maxie soon". The blond-haired man informed his fellow Admin, before ending the call.

Blaise looked forward, before shouting out loud for everyone to hear. "Team Magma, retreat! Our business here is done!" The Shadow of Fire shouted, grabbing the attention of everyone, even the battling Pokémon stopped and turned to look at him. He brought up his right fist and regrew the eager smirk from before. "We've found the most important key to making our desires a reality! We can't waste time here, we must go and retrieve the key!" He exclaimed, receiving excited cries from the Team Magma grunts at hearing this news.

Courtney, on the other hand, slightly widened her eyes in surprise. 'Most important key to making our desires a reality? It really exists... The Red Orb...!' The purple haired girl thought in shock, recalling the mysterious orb that had the power to transform Groudon to its Primal form. The grunts of Team Magma all began recalling their Pokémon, leaving the gang, Team Rocket and their Pokémon in surprise.

Courtney brought out an enlarged Great Ball and held the device out to Zangoose, firing a red beam and recalled the Normal type. Brock stared up at Courtney, who paid no attention to him and instead looked at the device for a moment, before turning around and walked off. She wasn't the only one leaving as all the grunts began departing as well. Blaise nodded in approval, before he turned around to leave himself.

"Hey, hold it!" Someone called out to him, grabbing Blaise's attention as he looked down the cliff to see Sorrel looking up towards him with his Aerodactyl landing beside him. "Where are you guys going?! We're not done yet with you!" The Veilstone boy exclaimed, much to the annoyance of Team Magma's Shadow of Fire. "Yeah? Well, we're done with you punks. Count your lucky stars we can't waste any more time here". Blaise told the younger male, before turning around completely and walked off.

In just a matter of seconds, Team Magma had left the open area, leaving only the gang, Team Rocket and their Pokémon. "What was that about?" Max questioned with a frown, Jirachi flying around and then laid down atop Max's head. "I'm not sure. Does this mean they've finished their objective here and left with the Meteorite?" Professor Cozmo questioned in concern, his Solrock beside him on the right.

"No way! Ash wouldn't have let us down and let them get what they want". Verity stated with conviction, certain her boyfriend succeeded in preventing Team Magma's plans from being fulfilled. "Piplup pip-piplup!" Piplup cried in agreement, still being carried in Verity's arms. "We can testify to that. We've seen the twerp stop even our greatest plans back in Kanto and Johto, so there's no way he can fail now!" James remarked with both hands laying against his hips. "Cacturne!" Cacturne commented, raising his right hand into the air.

The sounds of a helicopter's whirling blades caught everyone's attention as they looked up, where they saw Team Aqua's blue helicopter raising up into the air. "That's Team Aqua's helicopter!" May identified, recognizing the helicopter to be Team Aqua's since its colour matches with their organization. "Guess they're high tailing it out of here as well". Jessie remarked, her and Gothorita staring at the helicopter as it took off into a random direction.

Inside of Team Aqua's helicopter, Archie sat on his seat in the control room, grinning up as Shelly, Matt and Amber stood behind him with the Admins lowering their heads in disgrace. "Forgive us, Archie sir. We weren't able to acquire the Meteorite and were forced to retreat from Team Magma". Shelly said with her head bowed, ready to receive any punishment from her leader. Yet much to her surprise, Archie just waved his right hand out as if he was waving off a problem.

"Don't worry about it, Shelly. Besides, with the Blue Orb's whereabouts finally discovered we don't need that rock. And besides, I've found something truly extraordinary". Team Aqua's boss stated, mind flashing back to when he witnessed Ash's powers in his battle against Maxie. "That kid that battled you guys at Meteor Falls, what was his name again?" Archie questioned the Admins, much to their slight surprise at the question.

"I don't know his full name, but I think it was Ash something". Amber answered, a confused frown displayed as he had no idea why he'd be interested in knowing the boy's identity. "Ash, huh? Get a spy group together to keep constant watch of the boy". Archie told the three, much to their surprise at the order. "Bro, why should we waste some of our guys to watch some random kid?" Matt questioned his leader, wondering why they should keep an eye on Ash.

Archie gave a dark chuckle in response, mind stuck at the image of Ash growing his rainbow angel wings and the mysterious power he had. "That little scamp might just be what we need to control the power of Primal Kyogre". The boss of Team Aqua revealed, much to the Admins' surprise as they all widened their eyes. Archie then began laughing out loud, throwing his head back a bit as the helicopter flew further away from Mt. Chimney.

(Back at the mountain.)

Sorrel, Verity, Brock, May, Jessie, James and Professor Cozmo have all recalled their Pokémon, before they, Max, Jirachi and Meowth all gathered together to discuss about Team Magma's sudden withdraw. "What do you think they're up to? We've been battling them for a while now, so why suddenly leave?" May questioned, both hands folded behind her back. "Yeah, what gives?" Meowth questioned as well, eyes narrowed and paws against the hips.

Brock opened his mouth to speak, only to be beaten to a punch by someone coming up to them. "I don't know the full reason, but I think that we have some answers". A familiar voice stated, catching everyone's attention. They looked to see Ash walking up to them with Pikachu on his left shoulder, and the evolved Meteorite in his hands. "Ash!" The gang cried out in relief to see their friend safe and sound, Verity and May even running up to him.

The two females stopped in front of their boyfriend, who likewise stopped in front of them. "Are you alright? Did you get hurt?" Verity asked with a worried voice that he got hurt. Ash gave the Twinleaf girl a reassuring smile, before he shook his head. "Don't worry, I'm fine. Dragonite was knocked unconscious, but she should be fine soon after I heal her". The Rainbow Hero answered, much to the relief of Verity and May. "Pika pika". Pikachu said to Piplup, who was in her usual spot in Verity's wrapped around hands.

"You said you'd might know the reason why they left, right? What could this reason be?" Sorrel questioned his sworn brother as he, Brock, Max, Professor Cozmo, Jessie, James and Meowth walked up to the three. Ash turned to look at Sorrel, before he opened his mouth and spoke. "Maxie, Team Magma's leader, got a call about something being at Mt. Pyre. Whatever it is there, it must be important for them to leave and just hand over the Meteorite". The Rainbow Hero explained, tilting his head down to look at the rock-stone in his hands.

Professor Cozmo widened his eyes at what Ash said, before looking down at the Meteorite in Ash's hands. "That's the Meteorite? Then why does it look different?" The 40-year-old man asked with a fascinated look, catching Ash's attention as he looked up at him. "Well, when it was in my arms it just transformed all of a sudden". The Rainbow Hero lied, uncertain that telling anyone that he didn't trust completely about his Rainbow Hero powers.

"It just transformed in your arms? Wouldn't that mean-" James began, only to be cut off when Ash gave him a comical threatening glare to shut his trap. Getting the unspoken message, the former rich boy shut his mouth, turned around and whistled innocently. The Rainbow Hero dropped his glare and turned to look back at Professor Cozmo. "I don't know what happened to it, but I managed to get it back for you. Here, take it". The raven-haired boy said to the older male, holding the Meteorite for him to take.

Cozmo stared down at the rock-like gem for a few moments, before raising his hands. Just as he was about to take it, the sounds of more whirling helicopter blades caught everyone's attention. They looked up above to see Team Magma's helicopter flying over them in the opposite direction that Team Aqua's one took off in. Ash watched it with narrowed eyes, before he blinked in surprise at noticing something. Inside of the helicopter, Courtney was looking down at him from the left front window.

The two made eye contact with one another, despite the distance between them. Courtney's normally expressionless face changed to a small flushed one with a smile, before she then did something surprising. She blew a kiss from her lips with the left hand to Ash, resulting in him blushing a bit. 'What is with that girl? Last time we met she didn't show the slightest bit of interest in me, but now she's infatuated with me. Did I really make that much of an impact on her?' The Rainbow Hero questioned inside his mind, wondering how exactly Courtney grew to like him.

Inside of Team Magma's helicopter and in the control room, Maxie sat in his chair with both arms resting on the armrests. Tabitha and Blaise were standing behind their leader's seat, while Courtney was standing in front left window. "Leader Maxie, are you certain it was alright to leave the Meteorite with that kid?" Tabitha questioned his leader, uncertain of the choice Maxie made. Blaise looked at his fellow Admin and slightly narrowed both eyes at him.

"You question our leader?" The Shadow of Fire growled out, offended that Tabitha would question a choice their leader had made. Maxie's right-hand man turned to look at Blaise and opened his mouth to speak, only for their leader to speak up at the moment. "With the location of the Red Orb discovered, we have no further need for the Meteorite. No matter the amount of energy it absorbed, it wouldn't become what we sought. Instead of wasting our time, it should be spent on acquiring that which can certainly restore Groudon to its true form". Maxie explained to his two Admins, catching their attention as they turned to look at him.

The leader of Team Magma then gave a grin upon thinking of the amazing discovery he made today. "As for the reason I gave the Meteorite to the boy, it's very simple. He has a power unlike any I've ever seen before, a power that could tip the scales to our side". The red-haired man said with a voice full of fascination.

Tabitha and Blaise frowned in confusion at their leader's words, while Courtney turned to look at Maxie with a small gleam in her eyes. "You're referring to how that boy somehow grew wings, right Leader Maxie?" She questioned her leader, getting Maxie, Tabitha and Blaise to look at her.

The two other Admin members were staring at her as if she had grown a second head, while the organization's leader looked fascinated that she knew of Ash's powers. "So, you saw it firsthand as well". He stated since he knew that Courtney was never the type to lie or joke around. "Yes, I did. He even saved my life". She informed her leader, slightly catching Maxie off guard at what she said.

"He did? I am curious to hear more about this, we'll discuss it back at the base". The red-haired man told the young female, before facing forward. "In the meantime, Tabitha prepare a squad to keep an eye on the boy. I want to be aware of all his daily activities and desires". Maxie told his right-hand man, catching Tabitha off guard at what he said, but quickly recovered and saluted his leader. "Understood sir, I'll get a squad ready when we return to base". The Admin replied to his leader, while Courtney walked up and stopped besides Blaise.

"Leader Maxie, I'd like to be in charge of this squad". Team Magma's female Admin requested, grabbing Maxie's curiosity as he looked over to her. "Really? Why?" He questioned the young girl with a curious voice. Courtney's cheeks turned a bit red as she grew a small expression of desire. "Let's just say that you're not the only one interested in him". The purple haired girl told her leader, much to the amusement of Maxie and bewilderment of Tabitha and Blaise. The leader of Team Magma then began chuckling that the ever-serious Courtney had finally found a boy of interest.

Back with the gang, Ash comically shook his head to rid himself of that blush, before looking at Professor Cozmo again. The 40-year-old man spent a moment or two staring up at the sky where he last saw Team Magma's helicopter, before looking back at Ash. "Actually Ash, I think it is best that the Meteorite stays with you". Professor Cozmo told the Rainbow Hero, much to the surprise of him and everyone else at what he said.

"What? But this is an important part of your research, isn't it? Why leave it with me?" Ash asked Cozmo the reasons why he is leaving the rock-like gem with him. "I'm uncertain that the Meteorite will not be safe with me with both Team Magma and Aqua still around. With you, I know that this will be safe until the day comes that I won't have to worry about them coming back to steal it". The Professor told the young boy, who spent a moment to look down at the Meteorite in his hands, then back at him.

"Okay, I'll take care of this until both Team Magma and Aqua aren't a concern anymore". The Rainbow Hero told the Professor, which Cozmo nodded his head in approval at him. "Isn't that thing gonna be heavy to carry?" Max asked with an innocent voice, much to Verity's amusement as she giggled at him. "Don't worry, it won't be a problem. By the way, how'd you guys do anyway?" Ash asked with a curious voice, kneeling down on his right knees and placed the Meteorite down.

"We did great, Ash. My Shellos even evolved into a Gastrodon". May told her boyfriend with an overjoyed face. Ash widened his eyes in surprise as he took off his backpack and placed it in front of the Meteorite. "Really? That's great to hear, May". The Rainbow Hero said with a happy voice, opening his bag before taking the Meteorite into his hands.

"Her Shellos isn't the only Pokémon that evolved". Jessie remarked with a grin, one that James matched perfectly. "That's right. My Cacnea evolved into a Cacturne, and Jessie's Gothita into a Gothorita". The former rich boy told the Rainbow Hero, much to Ash's fascination as he placed the Meteorite in his bag. "Speaking about your Pokémon, there's something I've been meaning to ask you guys for some time now. What happened to Arbok and Weezing?" Ash questioned the trio of thieves, tilting his head to look at Jessie and James.

The Rainbow Hero's question caught everyone by surprise as they gave different expressions. Brock, May, Max and Pikachu blinked upon remembering the two Poison types that Team Rocket had. Verity, Sorrel, Professor Cozmo, Piplup and Jirachi appeared surprise as they had no idea Jessie and James had an Arbok and Weezing. Finally, Team Rocket all flinch at remembering their beloved old Poison types, and their goodbyes to them when they were last together.

Ash closed his bag, before putting it back on. He then turned to look at the three that have been chasing him and Pikachu for 2 years now, and saw their sad expressions, something that made both him and Pikachu soften their faces. "Are they... alright?" Ash asked in concern, worried that Arbok and Weezing got hurt terribly. "Ta be honest, we don't know". Meowth answered with a sad voice, getting everyone to look down at him in confusion.

"It happened not too long after we followed you here to Hoenn". Jessie began to explain, before James took over for her. "It all happened on one random day, where we encountered some poacher named Rico". The blue-haired boy informed the gang, much to the surprise of Ash, Brock, May, Max and Pikachu. "Did you see say Rico?" May asked in surprise, which Jessie nodded to her. Ash slightly narrowed both eyes as he had a feeling, he knew what happened. "Give us all the details". The Rainbow Hero requested, wanting to be certain.

Jessie, James and Meowth began to explain the events of that day, how they found a cage of trapped and injured Ekans, before Rico showed up with his Fearow and a cage of Koffing. Their attempt to battle Rico to save the trapped Poison types didn't go well; they forced him to recall his Fearow, yet Rico wasn't done just yet. The poacher had sent out a Pupitar and sent them flying with a Sandstorm. That unfortunate defeat had some good come from it as it was thanks to it, they met Cacnea, who saved them from a swarm of Beedrill.

They quickly recovered and sought out to find Rico and save the Poison types. Their second attempt, at first, was going extremely well as they managed to take Rico by surprise, defeat his Fearow and even free the caged Ekans and Koffing. But things went from great to terrible as Rico sent out his Pipitar, and even worse, it evolved right after coming out into a Tyranitar, much to Team Rocket's terror.

Things going downhill for them with even Wobbuffet too slow to counter Tyranitar's Hyper Beam attack. Realizing that they were outgunned, Jessie and James told Arbok and Weezing to take their pre-evolved stages and leave, much to their surprise. Arbok and Weezing didn't want to leave their beloved trainers, but were convinced by them and began to leave with the Ekans and Koffing. Rico attempted to stop the Poison types, yet Jessie, James and Meowth stood in his way as all three of them fought Tyranitar to protect their beloved Arbok and Weezing.

Arbok, Weezing and their pre-evolved stages managed to escape, while Jessie, James and Meowth were injured greatly by Rico's Tyranitar. Even when he recalled the Dark and Rock type back and started heading off to recapture the Poison types, Team Rocket still tried to stop him, yet their injuries were too great, and they lost consciousness. Later, they woke up and encountered Cacnea again, where James officially caught it.

Team Rocket finished explaining the events of that painful day and received different faces from the gang. May, Max, Professor Cozmo and Jirachi all stared at the three in awe that they went so far for their Pokémon. Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Brock, Pikachu and Piplup had sad faces for Team Rocket, the two Kanto residents and Electric Mouse knowing just how important Arbok and Weezing were to them.

"I'm sorry you guys. I know how important Arbok and Weezing were to you two". Ash apologized to Jessie and James for their separation with their first Pokémon. "It's alright. All we can do now is just hope they're alright and safe, wherever they are". James stated, looking up to the sky above them. "But... Couldn't you guys go find them and get them back?" Max questioned with an innocent voice, catching Brock's attention as he looked at the young book and shook his head sideways.

"No, they can't Max. They gave Arbok and Weezing a duty to look after the Ekans and Koffing they rescued. It's not something they can just forget about to get back Arbok and Weezing". The former Gym Leader explained to the Petalburg boy, something that James nodded at.

"He's right. We fought with everything we had for Arbork and Weezing to escape with their friends and look after them. To go looking for them would be disrespecting ourselves and them". James told the gang. Max lowered his head, thinking deeply about what Brock and James told him. Ash, on the other hand, looked up towards the sky in wonder. 'That may be so, but it's still possible to see them again someday'. The Rainbow Hero thought to himself, certain that a possibility of seeing Arbok and Weezing again was possible.

"Now that all of that stuff with Team Magma and Team Aqua is over, what are you guys gonna do now? Try to steal Pikachu again?" Verity asked the three thieves, slightly narrowing her eyes as she spoke. Fortunately for the gang, Jessie, James and Meowth all shrugged their shoulders. "Nah, I think dat we're good". Meowth spoke for his teammates, catching Ash's attention as he and Pikachu looked at the three thieves.

"Today has been good to us so far, especially with how our Pokémon evolved, so there's no way we're letting it end on a sad or angry note". James said with both arms crossed, preferring to leave in a good mood instead of a bad one. "Now, if you'll excuse us. Seviper, Haze!" Jessie cried out, bringing out a Poké Ball with her right hand and tossed it forward.

The device burst open and released a white beam that took shape, before clearing to reveal Seviper. "Seviper! Se…viper!" The Fang Snake Pokémon screeched out, before releasing thick, black smoke from its mouth. The gang, Professor Cozmo and their Pokémon raised their forearms to block out the smoke from their eyes, until it eventually cleared. They all looked to see Team Rocket were gone, something that made May let out an exhausted sigh. "Okay, that's just getting old". The brunette complained, getting an amused chuckle from Sorrel as he agreed with her on that.

(Later on)

The sun was beginning to go down for this rather eventful day. Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Brock, May, Max and Lucario all stood in front of Professor Cozmo with Pikachu on Ash's left shoulder, Piplup being carried in Verity's hands and Jirachi laying atop Max's head. "Now just follow this bumpy mountain road, and it'll lead you straight to Lavaridge Town. Oh, and Ash, good luck with your Gym battle". Professor Cozmo told the gang, causing Ash to give him a thankful smile.

"Thanks, I'm gonna get that badge, I know it". The Rainbow Hero thanked the adult man for his words. "Pika-pika". Pikachu said in thanks, nodding his head at Cozmo with both eyes closed happily. "Yup. You will". The professor stated with a nod, before chuckling. The gang then started heading down the mountain road to their destination, all looking back and waving goodbye to their friend. "Good-bye. Take care Professor". Ash bid farewell with everyone saying their farewell words to Cozmo as well.

Professor Cozmo smiled brightly with both eyes closed as he waved goodbye to the gang as well. As she waved good-bye, Verity walked up next to her boyfriend and gazed at him with a grin. "Your fourth Gym badge is right around the corner. I bet you're excited, right?" The Twinleaf girl asked the Rainbow Hero, which Ash gave her a smirk. "You have no idea". Ash responded, causing Verity to giggle while he looked forward across the distance towards their destination; Lavaridge Town in the distance.

The Rainbow Hero let out a low chuckle of anticipation, eager to win his fourth Gym badge as soon as possible.

(Pokémon ending 5: Type Wild)

Ash's current Pokédex spin around with a rainbow background a few times, before drawing closer to the camera and then stopped. As it opens, the running silhouettes of Ash and Pikachu appeared on the side of the screen while Ash and Pikachu themselves appeared on the bottom, running forward towards the camera.

"Since I've said good-bye to Pallet Town".

"I guess a bit of time has passed".

The Pokédex's screen then lit up and began to display events of the Rainbow Hero's life when he became a Pokémon Trainer. First, it showed Ash in his pajamas rushing out of his house and towards Professor Oak's lap. Then, it showed the Rainbow Hero in Professor Oak's lap, first meeting Piackhu. It showed Ash picking up his best friend and spun him around, which annoyed Pikachu as it used Thunderbolt and zapped Ash, who cried out in surprise.

"As with the number of scrapes, cuts, and friends I've got".

"They all give me a sense of pride".

The Pokédex's screen then changed to show Ash, with Pikachu on his shoulder, looking up into the red sun as Ho-Oh flew over them with the Rainbow Wing floating down from the Legendary Pokémon. Ash held up his hands as the Rainbow Wing floated down onto them. He then took hold of the quill with his right hand as it let out a rainbow glow, much to Ash and Pikachu's amazement.

The two looked back up at the sky as Ho-Oh flew away and disappeared from sight with a rainbow in sight. The Ash on the Pokédex's button stubble over his feet, getting Pikachu to look at him, but the Rainbow Hero regained his balanced and continued running with the running silhouettes of the two copying their movement.

"Since they were all the rage that time".

"I had ran off to buy these sneakers".

"But now, they can't even be found".

"Anywhere else in the world".

"They're the best pair of worn out shoes!"

The Pokédex's screen then changed to show Ash and Pikachu hiding behind a tree, looking up at a tree branch where a Caterpie was crawling around. It changed once more to show Ash and Verity racing against one another in the forest when they heard Entei was nearby. The Pokédex's screen changed once more to show Sorrel and Lucario with the Aura Pokémon in front of its trainer, charging up an Aura Sphere. Sorrel gave a command and threw his left arm to the side, while Lucario thrust his hands out and fired Aura Sphere.

The Pokédex's screen then changed to show the three officially meeting with Ash and Verity deciding to have a battle against one another. It changed once more to show Ash, Verity, Pikachu and Piplup surrounding Charmander, who was sitting down on a rock in the middle of the rain. It changed to show Charmander run up to Cross's right leg and hug it happily, only for Cross to kick him off. The device's screen then showed Ash standing across Cross, glaring at his unimpressed look.

The Pokédex's screen then changed to show Caterpie, on the solid ground, evolve into Metapod, then changed to show Charmander in the air, evolve into Charmeleon, before falling down with a happy look. The device's screen then changed to show the late night, where Verity first saw Suicune, who was looking at the girl who would become its chosen trainer. It changed once more to show Ash and Cross standing across one another on a battlefield, about to battle.

"Before you know it, Type: Wild!"

Ash and Pikachu were then suddenly replaced by Verity and Piplup running besides one another with their silhouettes replacing the ones from before. The two started to long run as the Pokédex's screen changed to show Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Pikachu, Piplup and Lucario being thrown into the air by Primeape. Then it changed to showed Ash carrying Metapod as he ran through the forest at night.

"Little by little, Type: Wild!"

Verity and Piplup were replaced by Sorrel and Lucario with their silhouettes being replaced as well, running in the same style. Ash's Pokédex showed Metapod glow as it evolved and flew into the air. The evolution light cleared to reveal Butterfree with it flapping its wings.

"More and more, Type: Wild!"

Sorrel and Lucario were then replaced by Cross and Incineroar with the silhouettes being replaced as well. The device's screen changed to show Verity holding up a Poké Ball with her right hand, before she kissed it. The Pokédex's screen then showed a white beam take shape in a lake, before clearing to reveal Verity's Lapras, who let out a cry.

"Gonna be strong, Type: Wild!"

Finally, Ash and Pikachu retook their spots with their silhouettes returning as well, with the two long running now. The Pokédex's screen showed the group of 3 humans and Pokémon looking up a hill towards Raikou, who was looking down at them. Then, it showed Ash, Verity, Sorrel, Pikachu, Piplup and Lucario meeting Bonja. The Pokédex then showed a bright white shape figure, before it cleared to reveal Charizard, who let out a fierce roar.

The device's screen then showed Charizard's massive Flamethrower attack closing in on Incineroar, before engulfing it completely. Then, it showed Cross kneeling down in defeat as he lost the battle against Ash.

Ash then grew his Rainbow Hero wings and slightly flew off of the ground and started flying just above it with Pikachu now running normally. The Pokédex then showed Ash recalling Pikachu to his Poké Ball to protect him, and then showed the two best friends hugging in the other world with Ash regaining his colour.

"And someday I will say".

The two best friends slowed down their pace with their silhouettes copying them, while the Pokédex showed Ash and Pikachu beginning their battle against Ho-Oh. The device's screen then showed Ash and Cross saying good-bye on friendly terms, before changing to show Ash, Verity and Sorrel parting ways as well. The device's screen showed Verity and Piplup on a boat as they returned to Sinnoh, before changing to show Sorrel and Lucario in a cold environment with an Articuno flying over them. The Pokédex's screen then displayed Cross, Incineroar and Midnight form Lycanroc sitting around a campfire, eating.

"Hello to my dreams".

Then, Ash landed on the ground as Pikachu jumped onto his right shoulder, before Verity, Sorrel, Piplup and Lucario joined them, all of them forming a group hug with the silhouettes mimicking them. The Pokédex's screen showed Ash sending Pikachu out into battle against Heracross, then Ho-Oh flying over the planet and finally, an image of the six all together in their group hug.

Boom, baby! Another long chapter done. I hope you all enjoyed the surprises of this one. I really don't have much to say at the end of this chapter, so I'll just make it quick. Next chapter, should the gang get Rotom-phones like in Journeys, and should Daisy Oak be apart of this story and make an appearance next chapter? Answer in either a review or message me.

Anyway, I'm gonna take a break from this story for a bit to focus on my other stories. I am confident to say that the next story I'll update is my Arc-V White Dragon Emperor story. I know that I've taken a long time with this story, so I hope to make up for the long wait somehow. I ask you all to be patient and wait for me to finish it. I've already made progress, so it hopefully won't take long. For now, I'll see myself out. Bye-bye.