Ash's Rikoto Story Chapter 26 Rustbolt Gym Battle, a pokémon fanfic

Chapter 26 Rustbolt Gym Battle

The next day dawns with the warm light of the sun casting long shadows across Rustbolt City. Ash is already deep into training with his Pokémon, following Elena's instructions. The sound of lively music fills the air as Ash's Pokémon move in sync, their steps matching the rhythm. Nearby, Elena watches closely, offering guidance and encouragement.

Alice arrives at the scene and pauses, surprised to see Ash's Pokémon dancing to the music. Curiosity piqued, she approaches Ash with a smile. "Morning, Ash."

Ash turns to face her, and for some reason, a wave of nervousness washes over him. He can't help but blurt out, "Morning, Alice. You're beautiful as always."

Alice blushes slightly at the compliment, her heart skipping a beat. "Thank you... But what exactly are you doing?"

Ash glances at his Pokémon, who are still dancing with focused determination. "Sis Elena wants my Pokémon to learn how to move with the rhythm. She said the Gym Leader here likes to use tricks that throw off her opponents."

Elena nods in agreement. "And if you don't want to be beaten easily, this training is crucial. Alice, where's Mother?"

Alice's expression softens as she replies, "She's returned to Sevestar Island. She said she had something important to take care of there."

"I see," Ash says, absorbing the information. "Well, I guess we're ready to head to the gym now."

The three of them hop into a taxi and make their way to the gym. As they arrive, they spot Rick standing near the entrance, his usual smug grin plastered on his face.

"Ha, you again?" Rick taunts as soon as he sees them. "Always a step behind me, huh? Haha!"

Ash rolls his eyes, unimpressed. "So what if we are?"

Rick crosses his arms, still grinning. "Here to challenge Electra, are you? Just so you know, she's got some tough Electric-types. You might be in over your head!"

Ash, not in the mood for Rick's banter, responds with a hint of irritation. "If you're just here to mock me, you can leave now. I'm not interested in your so-called advice."

Rick laughs, clearly enjoying himself. "Here's a tip anyway! Use a Ground-type or a Grass-type. Flying-types and Water-types won't do you much good. Good luck, loser! You're going to need it."

With that, Rick saunters off, leaving the trio in peace. Elena watches Rick walk away and shakes her head in disbelief. "I wonder how you manage to put up with that guy."

Ash smiles slightly, his tone calm. "Patience."

The three exchange a glance, knowing that no matter what Rick says, they're ready to face whatever challenges the gym has in store.

As they step inside the gym, Ash, Elena, and Alice are greeted by the unexpected sight of people dancing all around the battlefield. The lively music and rhythmic movements fill the air with energy. Alice looks around, slightly bewildered. "Are we really at the gym? Or did we stumble into a dance ball?"

Elena chuckles, nodding toward the center of the room. "This is the gym, all right. And over there is Electra, my friend who also happens to be a fantastic dancer. Electra!"

Hearing her name, Electra turns and beams when she spots Elena. She gracefully weaves through the dancing crowd and approaches them with a bright smile. "Hello, Elena! What a wonderful surprise to see you here—and with company, too!"

Elena returns the smile. "Good to see you again. Let me introduce you—this is my little brother, Ash, and this is Alice, the Subhail Gym Leader."

Electra's eyes light up with recognition and curiosity. "Oh my, I've always wondered when I'd get to meet you both in person. It's a pleasure to meet you, Ash, and you too, Alice." She bows slightly in greeting.

"It's good to meet you as well, Electra," Alice responds warmly.

As Ash listens to the upbeat music filling the gym, he can't help but ask, "So your gym is like a dance ball?"

Electra laughs softly, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "In a way, yes. The people you see here are my students—I teach them how to dance. This Gym is designed and used as a disco because I just love to dance! I really like to feel the music move through me like electricity!"

Elena nods, adding, "And that's why you love Electric-type Pokémon. They're strong, fast, and full of energy—just like you."

As Electra continues chatting, she suddenly notices Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder. Her eyes widen with excitement, and she squeals, "A Pikachu! I've always wanted to meet one! Can I pet him?"

Ash smiles and nods. "That is, if he's fine with it."

Pikachu, ever friendly, jumps from Ash's shoulder into Electra's arms and nuzzles her affectionately. Electra giggles, her face lighting up with joy. "He's so cute!" she exclaims, gently stroking Pikachu's soft fur.

"I know," Elena says with a warm smile. "Pikachu was my brother's first Pokémon, given to him by Professor Oak..." Her smile falters slightly as she remembers the late, world-renowned Professor, a somber expression crossing her face.

Electra, noticing the shift in Elena's mood, offers a sympathetic nod. "I'm sorry to hear about Professor Oak. He was a great man."

Ash, sensing the need to move forward, gives a determined nod. "But now that we're here, let's have that battle. Show me what you've got."

Electra grins, the spark of competition lighting up her eyes. "You've got it!"

As the music fades, the dancers who were previously moving in rhythm with the beat now pause, turning their attention to the battlefield. The room fills with cheers and applause, all in support of Electra, their beloved Gym Leader.

Electra steps onto the battlefield with a confident smile. "Let the rock music begin with my rock star, Terraz!" she announces. As her Pokémon appears on the field, a band in the corner starts to play, the beat pulsing through the gym. Terraz, clearly in sync with the music, begins to dance to the rhythm.

Ash watches as the music fills the air, then calls out, "I choose you, Platyplat!"

The Platypus Pokémon materializes on the field, ready for battle. As the match begins, Ash quickly takes the initiative. "Platyplat, use Water Gun!"

Platyplat shoots a stream of water toward Terraz, but to Ash's surprise, Terraz effortlessly dodges the attack, moving gracefully to the beat of the music, almost as if it were born a dancer.

"What a move..." Alice murmurs, impressed.

Electra grins. "Now move with the beat and use Air Cutter!" Terraz dances to the drumbeat, then swiftly unleashes a barrage of Air Cutters, the sharp winds slicing through the air and hitting Platyplat hard.

Ash winces as he sees Platyplat struggling. "This is going to be tough..."

Electra presses her advantage. "Terraz, use Air Cutter again! This time, let's fly with the rhythm!"

Ash knows he needs to act fast. "We can't let it attack! Platyplat, use Uproar!" Platyplat lets out a loud, disruptive cry, trying to drown out the music, but Terraz, already in perfect sync with the rhythm, manages to launch its Air Cutter before the noise can disrupt it.

Alice watches, her concern growing. "Ash is in trouble..."

"I know," Elena says, though she remains calm. "But Ash will find a way to counter it."

Electra, confident in her strategy, calls out, "How are my attacks? You've got to go with the flow of the music if you want to win!"

Ash narrows his eyes, then suddenly gets an idea. "Then we'll stop the flow! Platyplat, use Confuse Ray!"

Electra's eyes widen in surprise as the eerie light of the Confuse Ray hits Terraz, causing the Pokémon to lose its rhythm. The once graceful movements falter, the beat slipping away from Terraz's control. "No way..."

Ash seizes the moment. "Finish it with Ice Beam!" Platyplat focuses, shooting a freezing blast of ice directly at Terraz. The super effective attack hits its mark, knocking Terraz out and securing the victory.

Electra and her dancers are momentarily taken aback by Ash's clever use of Confuse Ray, but Electra quickly recovers, a smile spreading across her face. "I can see why your sister speaks so highly of you, Ash. But the tempo is about to change. The last round was fast-paced, so how about we switch things up with some Classical Music? Ecobuzz, let's show them your moves!"

As Electra's Grass and Electric-type Pokémon, Ecobuzz, takes the field, the band shifts to a slower, more elegant tune. Ecobuzz moves gracefully in time with the music, its every motion deliberate and precise. Before Ash can react, Ecobuzz releases a cloud of Stun Spore, paralyzing Platyplat. The slow, steady rhythm of the music enhances Ecobuzz's grace as it follows up with a powerful Mega Drain, sapping Platyplat's energy and defeating the Pokémon.

"This is really interesting..." Alice remarks, watching the battle unfold. "Now they're moving in slow motion."

Elena nods, appreciating the artistry behind Electra's strategy. "That's Electra's style. She has her own band that can play all kinds of music, each one tailored to a different battle strategy."

Ash recalls Platyplat and quickly sends out his next Pokémon, Flawk. Electra raises an eyebrow, recognizing the choice. "You do know that Flawk is a Flying-type, right?"

Ash nods confidently. "I know, but since you've slowed things down, it's time for me to speed them back up. Flawk, use Flame Charge!"

Flawk charges forward, its body engulfed in flames as it races toward Ecobuzz. The speed of the attack surprises Electra, but she remains composed. "When it gets close, use Leech Seed!"

As Flawk closes in, it lands a solid hit on Ecobuzz, but not before being struck by the Leech Seed. Small vines wrap around Flawk, slowly draining its energy with each passing moment.

Electra seizes the opportunity. "Now, Parabolic Charge! Let our guest hear the tune of this music."

Ecobuzz gracefully twirls like a ballerina, unleashing a wave of electrical energy that surges toward Flawk. The Electric-type move hits hard, causing Flawk to falter. But Ash isn't ready to give up. "Flawk, I know you can hang in there! When it gets close again, use Flame Burst!"

As Ecobuzz gracefully closes the distance, Flawk musters its strength and unleashes a burst of fire, engulfing Ecobuzz in flames. The burn takes its toll, and Ecobuzz wobbles before collapsing to the ground.

"Ecobuzz! Are you okay?" Electra calls out, concerned.

Ecobuzz nods weakly, trying to stand, but the burn proves too much, and it faints. At the same time, Flawk, drained by the Leech Seed and the earlier Electric attack, also falls to the ground, fainted.

"A draw..." Ash murmurs as both he and Electra recall their Pokémon.

Electra grins as she pulls out a conductor's baton, her excitement palpable. "We've had rock and classical music, but now it's time for my favorite—pop music! And I've saved it especially for my final Pokémon. Rushot, let's go!"

As her canine Pokémon, Rushot, takes the field, Ash narrows his eyes and calls out his next choice. "Gliscor, come on out!"

The audience of dancers and musicians gasps as the rare Gliscor appears, its wings spread wide. Electra raises an eyebrow, intrigued. "A Ground and Flying-type, huh? This will be interesting. But first, let's set the rhythm with Lightning Strike!"

I stay out too late, got nothin' in my brain
That's what people say, mmm hmm, that's what people say, mmm hmm
I go on too many dates, but I can't make 'em stay
At least that's what people say mmm mmm, that's what people say mmm mmm

The band launches into a lively pop tune, and Rushot, moving in perfect sync, unleashes Lightning Strike. Ash, confident in Gliscor's Ground typing, doesn't react—until he sees Gliscor suddenly spinning in confusion.

But I keep cruising, can't stop, won't stop moving
It's like I got this music in my mind, sayin' gonna be alright

"Gliscor? What happened to you?" Ash asks.

"Gliscor? What happened?" Ash asks, concern creeping into his voice.

Alice quickly realizes what's going on. "Lightning Strike doesn't cause damage, but it confuses the opponent... Gliscor's disoriented!"

'Cause the players gonna play, play, play, play, play
And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate
Baby, I'm just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
I shake it off, I shake it off
Heartbreakers gonna break, break, break, break, break
And the fakers gonna fake, fake, fake, fake, fake
Baby, I'm just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
I shake it off, I shake it off

Gliscor attempts to counter with a Sand Attack, but its confusion causes it to miss entirely, and Rushot easily dodges the feeble attempt, moving to the rhythm of the repeated beats.

Electra chuckles, clearly enjoying herself. "I've trained hard to perfect this technique. Now that your beat is off, let me show you how to move with the flow! Rushot, Quick Attack! Follow the music!"

I'll never miss a beat, I'm lightning on my feet
And that's what they don't see mmm mmm, that's what they don't see mmm mmm
I'm dancing on my own (dancing on my own), I'll make the moves up as I go (moves up as I go)
And that's what they don't know mmm mmm, that's what they don't know mmm mmm

Rushot zips across the battlefield in a zig-zag pattern, hitting Gliscor repeatedly. The relentless attacks leave Ash's Pokémon reeling.

But I keep cruising, can't stop, won't stop grooving
It's like I got this music in my mind saying it's gonna be alright

I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off

Alice watches anxiously. "If this keeps up, Ash is going to lose..."

"But this music really does make you want to dance, doesn't it?" Elena adds, swaying slightly to the infectious beat.

"Yeah," Alice agrees, though her worry remains.

Electra, noticing Rushot's dominance, decides to turn up the heat. "Now it's rap time!"

Hey, hey, hey
Just think while you've been getting down and out about the liars and the dirty, dirty cheats in the world
You could have been getting down to this sick beat

My ex-man brought his new girlfriend
She's like "oh my God", but I'm just gonna shake it
And to the fella over there with the hella good hair
Won't you come on over, baby, we can shake, shake, shake, yeah oh

As the beat switches to a faster, more rhythmic rap, Ash suddenly has an idea. "Gliscor, close your eyes! Focus on the music—feel the rhythm!"

Gliscor closes its eyes, its body swaying slightly as it tunes into the beat. As the music grows louder, Gliscor begins to dodge Rushot's attacks with precision, its movements guided purely by the rhythm.

"What?" Electra and her dancers are stunned as they watch Gliscor effortlessly avoid each strike.

Ash seizes the moment. "Great job, Gliscor! Now, let's dance too—use Swords Dance!"

'Cause the players gonna play, play, play, play, play
And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate (haters gonna hate me)
Baby, I'm just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
I shake it off, I shake it off
Heartbreakers gonna break, break, break, break, break
And the fakers gonna fake, fake, fake, fake, fake (the fakers baby)
Baby, I'm just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
I shake it off, I shake it off

With a surge of energy, Gliscor begins to perform Swords Dance, its claws glowing as it spins and moves in perfect harmony with the music. The sight of the powerful Pokémon gracefully following the beat leaves Alice and the others in awe.

Elena smirks, her pride evident. "Looks like all that training has finally paid off."

Electra, impressed but undeterred, smiles. "Maybe you were born to be a dancer too, Ash. But I'll have to stop your performance with another Lightning Strike!"

Ash stays calm, his strategy clear. "Wait for it, Gliscor—then use X-Scissor!"

As Rushot charges up another Lightning Strike, Gliscor waits for the perfect moment. Then, with a swift move, it dodges the attack and strikes back with a powerful X-Scissor, landing a direct hit on Rushot.

I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off
I, I shake it off, I shake it off

"Not bad, but here comes the final refrain," Electra declares. "The song is about to end—Quick Attack, Rushot!"

"Counter with Night Slash!" Ash commands.

Both Pokémon charge at each other, their final attacks clashing as the music reaches its climax. A giant dust cloud erupts from the impact, obscuring the battlefield. As the music fades and the dust settles, only one Pokémon remains standing—Rushot, with swirly eyes, collapses to the ground.

"Rushot is unable to battle! Gliscor is the winner, which means the match goes to Ash Ketchum!" the referee announces.

Ash exclaims, "We did it!" Gliscor, overjoyed, suddenly tackles him to the ground, both of them laughing as they roll across the battlefield.

Alice watches with a smile, impressed by what she just witnessed. "Wow... he really beat the rhythm!"

Elena nods in agreement. "Now that's what I call fighting music with music."

Electra, still buzzing with excitement, walks over to them. "Wow... that was an electrifying battle! I loved every moment of it! You and your Pokémon have amazing rhythm, Ash. You've definitely earned this." She pulls out the Lightning Badge and hands it to him. "This is my awesome Gym Badge."

Ash accepts the badge with a grin. "Thanks, Electra."

Electra winks at him. "No problem. And just so you know, both you and Alice are invited to tonight's dance ball. I'm really looking forward to seeing you there."

"A dance ball?" Alice echoes, her eyes wide with surprise.

Elena nods, her tone warm and teasing. "Yep! Royalties like us love music and dancing, so we decided to host it as a welcome back for Ash to the Rikoto Region—and as a way to cheer him up."

Ash, touched by the gesture, smiles gratefully. "Wow, thank you, guys..."

Meanwhile, Alice's mind starts to race. Then... I'll have a chance to dance with Ash... oh my gosh... Her cheeks flush bright red at the thought, and Ash, noticing her sudden change, becomes concerned, though he tries to hide his own embarrassment. Not wanting to read too much into it, he activates his classic dense mode. "Alice, what's wrong? Are you feeling feverish?"

"No, no, I'm fine, really!" Alice quickly waves her hands, trying to dismiss his concern, though her flustered expression only deepens.

Electra, noticing the exchange, grins. "Well, if that's the case, I think we should help Alice find the perfect outfit for the party tonight. Don't you agree, Elena?"

"I'm with you," Elena replies with a knowing smile. She turns to Ash. "Ash, why don't you head back to the Pokémon Center? I'm sure Mother is there waiting to hear your good news."

"Sure," Ash agrees, still a little puzzled but willing to follow their suggestion.

With that, they part ways temporarily—Ash heading back to the Pokémon Center, while Electra and Elena take Alice on a mission to find the perfect outfit for the evening's dance ball.

The third gym battle is over, and Ash and Alice are going to have their first dance in the next chapter. I hope you like it and I hope you are excited to see what will happen next.

As for having Ash learned the truth about the controlled traitors, that will come, but it will be after Ash and Alice start dating.