Pokemon is owned by Gamefreak and all Pokédex entries are from Bulbapedia.
"Butts"- Humans speaking
" Butts"- Pokemon speaking
'Butts'- thoughts
" Butts "-Pokedex entries/TV commentary
" Butts"- Telepathy/Aura speech
Queen Of The Serpentine
By the time Ash, Serena, Gary, Brock, Cobalt, Green, Psi, and John make it to the first road sign on the route, the sun had already set, so they decide to camp in the woods for the night. It was fun for Ash and his veteran team members, almost like old times with Misty as they traveled through Kanto. Early the next day, they finally arrive at thor destination; Lilycove City, which was a fairly large port town.
Gary: So, this is it, huh? Lilycove City, apparently one of the biggest cities in Hoenn.
Serena: *looks at handheld* According to my region guide, Lilycove City is famous for being the main city near the Safari Zone and Mt Pyre, alongside…
Cobalt: *points* That?
Serena and the other follow Cobalt's paw as he points to an absolutely massive building that stood several stories high, alongside a large sign on the roof.
Brock: "Lilycove Department Store". This seems excessive, yet… I can't look away.
Ash: Now that I think about it, we DO need some things for the road.
Gary: Alright then. How about we get some essentials for the journey and then head to the Pokemon Center?
Green: I know you can't hear me, but I'm down for that.
The group enters the large building, looking at the many escalators, elevators, clerks, and shelves that housed many products. From food to camping gear to toothpaste to Poke Balls to even evolution items. Although, Ash noticed something above them.
Ash: The sign in this section says "gift shop".
Cobalt: Gift shop?... What would a gift shop be doing in a department?
Green: I dunno…. selling gifts?
Cobalt: *looking around* Wow, look at all this stuff! Hey, Ash, you gonna buy something?
Ash: Uh… Maybe? I dunno, I'm not in the market for any souvenirs. But Mom once said that you could never have too many-
Suddenly, the boy stops and gasps as he looks horrified.
Ash: Oh no! I just realized what this place doubles as!
Green: What do you mean?
Ash: Guys, we have walked straight into a… *whispering* tourist trap.
Cobalt: A TRAP?!
Green: What do we do?
Ash: Calm down. We need to get out of this section and find the others before we spend all our money on useless trinkets.
Both Pokemon nod as they speed walk to the end of the aisle, only for Cobalt to stop.
Cobalt: Guys, wait, *walks away* I saw a very nice driftwood sculpture over there that would work great as a mantelpiece.
Green: COBALT, NOOOOO!
—-
After braving the gift shop in the department store, our group heads back to the Pokemon Center. Gary and Brock watch as Ash puts Psi and Jaws through a small training exercise, Cobalt and Green were coming in from every side of the Alakazam in order to train their Dark Pulse accuracy while also learning the timing to use Expanding Force.
Brock: *sighs* Just like old times…
With Jaws, they were continuously using Dragon Rush on Aiden as he held the massive fossil back, trying to teach them to use their momentum to make the attack much more powerful. Meanwhile, Kestrel flew in the sky, raining Dazzling Gleams down onto Membra, who dodges and trains to throw a ball of electric energy at the Togekiss, who dodges.
Kestrel: Nice job, Membra! That was your biggest one yet!
Membra: Thanks. *to Ash* Why am I training to use this move, Ash? Wouldn't Thunder be a better move to learn? I mean, I already know Thunderbolt.
Ash: True, but I picked up a Thunderstone at the department store and I want you in peak condition before we decide if you want to evolve or not. Plus, Electro Ball deals more damage the faster you are than your opponent, so we gotta get your speed up.
Gary: Good thinking, Ash. According to my Pokedex, Eelektrik isn't really known for defense, so best to keep her light on her…. Tail, I guess.
Membra: *annoyed* Did you really have to announce that to the world?
Suddenly, Serena comes back inside the Pokemon Center with a cheerful smile on her face.
Ash: Hey, Serena. Did you sign up for the Pokemon contest while you were out?
Serena: Sure did! Turns out, I can reserve a spot on the app. I'm all set to participate the day after tomorrow. And I bumped into someone along the way.
Ash, Brock, and Gary look at her curiously until a familiar face enters the back of the building with a smirk.
Scott: Hello, everyone.
Ash: Scott! I was wondering when we were going to bump into you.
Scott: I'm sure you were. *notices Brock* I see we have a new member of this little gang.
Brock: Just for now. Nice to meet you, though. I'm Brock, I used to travel with Ash back in Kanto.
Scott: Pleasure's all mine. Name's Scott, I run this Frontier your buddy's challenging and oversee the battles between the Frontier Brains. As a matter of fact, I was waiting to meet you here. I must have missed you, because I didn't know you were in the city until I bumped into Serena.
Serena: Yeah, Scott was just walking down the street when I was heading back from registration.
Ash: Well, how about that.
Gary: So, you were waiting to escort us to the Battle Pike?
Scott: Yes, I was. How would you guys like a ride? Her place is an hour's walk from here, but in my baby girl, we can make it in half the time.
Ash: That'd be nice, Scott. Thanks a ton.
Green: ….I like this guy. I really do.
Cobalt: I know, right? It's like… I LITERALLY can't not smile when I'm around him.
Scott: Well, then if that's settled, I'm all for driving the rest of you to the Battle Pike.
Ash: Awesome. Let me just get my team healed up and we'll be good to go.
After Ash's party was healed, the boy and his friends got in Scott's car and the fat man began driving to the Battle Pike. The ride is mostly silent apart aside from Scott talking about his car and how amazing it was…. It was kinda annoying, but they had to admit, it IS a pretty cool car.
The rest of the drive remained silent until Scott parked the car.
Scott: We're here, my friends. Everyone out.
As they exit the car, in front of a large gymnasium in the middle of the forest…. Which for some reason was built to resemble a giant Seviper. This caused Ash to cringe at the sight of the building, which Gary and Serena noticed.
Gary: You okay, Ash?
Ash: Yeah. I just… Had a bit of a bad experience with a Seviper once….
Everyone gets out of the car just in time for the front doors of the building that looks like a Seviper to reveal three women greeting them with serious faces before the lead woman with blonde hair speaks up.
Blonde: Which one of you is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town?
Ash opens his mouth to answer, but before he can, Brock steps in front of him and grabs both of the woman's hands.
Brock: Forget about Ash, focus on me for now and possibly forever. My name is Brock, and in all my travels, I have never- ACK!
The group stares in surprise… even the now released Croagunk stares in shock as the woman kicks Brock in the stomach and sends down on his knees, holding his gut while the woman and her companions give him a deathly glare.
Woman: How dare you try to be fresh with a sister of Queen Lucy! I oughta slug you all the way to the Ferrum region for your arrogance!
Serena: So… Lucy's here?
Woman: To you, it's QUEEN Lucy! QUEEN!
Suddenly, a rose-shaped projectile in the pattern of a Serviper's skin lands on the ground between the women and Brock. Everyone turns around to see another woman exiting the building with long black hair with red streaks and a serious look on her face.
Woman: Barbara, how many times must I tell you not to treat my guests this way?
Woman: Queen Lucy!
Cobalt: So, THAT'S the Frontier Brain?
Green: Wow. I'm not even gonna be mad if Brock does his thing with her, she's legit stunning. I love her hair.
The older teen gets up and stares at Lucy in shock. Sure, he's seen pretty girls, but her?... She was certainly something else as she proceeded to scold the blonde.
Lucy: This childish way you treat my guests is getting VERY old. *to group* I'm very sorry for my sister's lack of manners.
Suddenly, Brock gets back to his knee after running to Lucy and takes her hands.
Brock: Fair Queen Lucy, I am far less worthy to be in your presence and radiance. My name is Brock, so please spare time to answer this one question… Do you believe in love at first sight- AUGH!
Once again, Brock is suddenly interrupted by Barbara, who grabs him by the collar of his shirt and drags him away from Lucy.
Barbara: How dare you approach our queen in such a presumptuous manner!
However, Croagunk notices that Lucy wasn't repulsed or disgusted. Only she stared… but in surprise and interest, especially when the Toxic Mouth Pokemon notices the growing blush on her face.
Scott: Lucy, you good?
The woman shakes her head to clear her mind before nodding to Scott. She then approaches the team as Brock manages to get back onto his feet, looking at Ash seriously.
Lucy: I take it you are my challenger? The one to collect 3 Symbols so far?
Ash: That's me. I'm Ash Ketchum from the Kanto region.
Lucy: I see. Then welcome to the Battle Pike, Ash Ketchum. I must apologize for my sister. She tends to get carried away.
Ash: It's okay, and… Sorry about Brock, he… does that a lot.
Lucy: Well, I'm happy to say that the Battle Pike is open today. Had you come yesterday, you would find yourself disappointed, as would I. I await our battle, especially with a… good friend.
Ash: Uh… thanks.
Once again, Brock gets between Ash and Lucy, grabbing her hands again as he speaks.
Brock: Oh, Lucy, your gentle soul is as sweet and kind as sweet and kind can be! It sparkles and shines from the deepest reaches of your being.
Lucy starts at Brock with her cheeks heating up again… Only for Barbara to grab him by the ear and drag him away.
Barbara: Keep your hands off Queen Lucy. Of course, she is sweet and kind.
While Lucy secretly wishes Barbara didn't yank him away, her cheeks heat up again before she shakes her head, and her face turns serious again.
Lucy: Come, let us begin. *turns around* I am most intrigued to see what a trainer that has qualified for a Pokemon League in his first year as a Trainer can do against me."
Ash: You heard about that?
Lucy: Yes, I havr. Scott told me in an attempt to excite me about our match."
Scott: Well, uh… *blushes* Given how there has hardly been a worthy challenger to face the Battle Frontier, it only made sense to excite Lucy on such a rare opportunity as facing someone who qualified as fast as Ash.
Gary: ….That makes sense.
The group follows Lucy inside as Ash's strongest members lag behind to talk to Croagunk.
Cobalt: Croagunk, what happened?
Green: You're usually on top of keeping Brock from being a creep.
Croagunk: True, true… But I made a rule for myself that I wouldn't do that if one thing happened.
Cobalt: What's that?
Coragunk: ….*smiles* If the lass likes the idjit back…
—-
After a couple of minutes, the group makes their way to the battlefield where Gary, Grookey, Serena, Scott, and Brock sit on one side of the bleachers, and Barbara and the rest of Lucy's sisters sit on the other side. Though unknown to the group, a small invisible figure was watching as it floated in the rafters, turning visible to reveal itself as Melody. Lucy walks over to the platform on the far side of the battlefield while Ash, Cobalt, and Green stand on the other side. Once everyone is in place, one of Lucy's sisters with blue hair stands on a platform on the sidelines of the field and raises both of her hands.
Referee: Now, the Frontier battle between Ash of Pallet Town and Pike Queen Lucy is about to begin! Each participant may use only 2 Pokemon with no substitutions and the battle will be over when both Pokemon from either side aren't able to continue! Furthermore, due to some… recent notes from the creator of our Frontier, either Trainer is only permitted Dynamax or Mega Evolution once per match!
Ash: No substitutions, huh? This is gonna be tricky…
Cobalt: Plus, look at the field. It has both land AND water segments to it. Keep on your guard, this could get tricky, Ash.
Referee: Now, choose your Pokemon!
Lucy: *throws Pokeball* Seviper, prepare for battle!
The ball opens to reveal a Seviper looking ready to crush whatever opponent comes its way.
Barbara: All the way, Lucy! You got this!
Green: Seviper, eh? That probably means that her second Pokemon is likely a Water type. And lucky us, we have a friend who DESTROYS Poison. Am I right, Ash?
Ash: You know it. *throws Pokeball* Psi, I choose you!
The Alakazam floats in the air before slowly descending, teleporting their spoons into their hands and spinning them before gaining a battle stance.
Brock: Nice! I haven't seen Psi battle officially since the Indigo League. This is gonna be good.
Gary: Yeah, especially since Poison type Pokémon are weak to Psychic types, so Ash might just have this in the bag.
Referee: Begin the battle…. NOW!
Ash: Alright, Psi, let's test the waters! Dark Pulse!
Psi nods and fire a Dark Pulse from one of their spoons as Lucy closes her eyes, looking unamused.
Lucy: Use Poison Tail.
Seviper's tail turns light purple as it swats the Dark Pulse away. However, Seviper notices Psi's smirk as it reveals the other spoon was teleported behind Seviper, which fires a Dark Pulse at the back of the snake's head.
Barbara: Oh, no!
Ash: Nice work, Psi! Now use Expanding Force!
Lucy: Dodge and use Night Slash.
Psi's hands glow magenta as a column of energy forms under Seviper, but the large snake Pokemon slithers away from them at a quick speed and successfully hits its opponent with its tail, knocking Psi back.
Ash: Oh no, Psi!
Green: A super effective hit!
Lucy: Now, Poison Tail!
Ash: Protect!
Psi forms a shield around themselves, but unfortunately, the serpent was too fast as it struck with its poisonous tail. The Alakazam cries in pain as they gain a purple blush.
Cobalt: Psi!
Scott: Not good. Ash's Alakazam's been poisoned from Seviper.
Brock: Yeah! Way to go, Lucy!
Serena: Brock! Whose side are you on?!
Brock hesitates and struggles to answer before he shouts something that makes Lucy hide a small blush.
Brock: I'm rooting… for both sides!
Gary: You can't just root for both sides. You're either siding for Ash or Lucy.
Ash: It's alright, Gary. Trust me, it's better to let this ride out.
Cobalt: Unfortunately, yeah… But we have to finish this thing quick, before Psi faints!
Psi: I would not be so hasty for my sake, Cobalt…
The Psychic type gets back onto their feet and smiles at Ash while giving him a thumbs up. However, Lucy and her entourage look in shock.
Lucy: Interesting.
Barbara: Impossible! No Pokemon has gotten up after being poisoned by Queen Lucy's Seviper! Unless….
Lucy: I assume this means your Alakazam has the Magic Guard ability?
Ash: Yeah. Now, your poison won't be taking us out anytime soon.
Serena: "Magic Guard"?
Gary: It's an ability where a Pokemon only takes from attacks instead things like recoil damage or status conditions.
Brock: So, no matter how Psi's poison, it won't affect them as much. Amazing…
Green: Nonetheless, we should end this quick, right?
Ash: Right. *to Psi* Use Psychic!
Psi nods as their eyes glow blue while Seviper is bathed in that same glow. Suddenly, the snake finds itself tugged and stretched in the air while even being squashed like an accordion before being thrown into a rock.
Lucy: Seviper, strike back with Flamethrower!
Ash: Counter with Dark Pulse!
A large stream of fire shoots from Seviper's mouth as Psi once again fires a Dark Pulse. The two attacks collide, causing steam to fill the battle area.
Lucy: Now, Fire Fang!
The Fang Snake Pokemon's aforementioned fangs coated themselves in fire before lunging at Psi. But just as it was about the strike…
Ash: Teleport out of the way!
Psi smirks as they suddenly disappear, making Seviper crash into a rock as the Alakazam appears behind them.
Lucy: What?!
Green: Bro, did you remember-
Cobalt: Yeah, it… It's the same strategy Psi came up with after our battle with that Samurai kid! Finally, we get to use it in a way, shape, or form.
Ash: Now, use Protect on Seviper!
Lucy: On Seviper?
With a nod, Psi extends their arms, sealing Seviper inside a Protect barrier, trapping the snake in its wall as it slashes with its tail and fangs.
Seviper: Wha- HEY! Let me out! LET ME OUT OF HERE!
Psi: Hm, I think I shall go with…*smirks* No.
Ash: Now, use Expanding Force!
Without a moment of hesitation, Psi's extended arms cross as their eyes and hands glow again, a circle of magenta light forming underneath Seviper. The snake sees this and grows desperate to get away.
Lucy: Night Slash, hurry!
However, no matter how many times Seviper struck the Protect, the circle fires a beacon of magenta energy upwards, striking Seviper as it hisses in pain. The barrier is filled with pinkish-purple light before Psi drops the Protect, revealing Seviper's long form springing up and swaying like a jack-in-the-box before falling over, unconcious. The light-blue haired woman stares at it for a moment before she reluctantly raises her left hand.
Referee: Seviper is unable to battle, Alakazam wins!
Barbara and Lucy's other sisters look at the fallen Pokemon sadly while Gary and Serena cheer, and Brock struggles on whether or not to cheer or be sad. Lucy, on the other hand, just sighs in a mild-mannered way before putting Seviper back in its Pokeball.
Lucy: You battled well, my dear…. *to Ash* Ash, tell me this… How did you figure out such an oddball tactic?
Ash: Simple… I use the whole "speed over strength strategy" myself. And since Seviper was able to dodge moves like Expanding Force and Dark Pulse while able to quickly get hits in, I figured the best way to hit it was to keep it in one spot.
Gary: And since Protect only creates a dome when the Pokemon's on the ground, below Seviper was the perfect place to attack!
Brock: I hate to admit it for Lucy's sake, but that is smart of Ash to think of such a thing.
Ash nods to his friend as above, Melody was cheering at the sight of Psi's victory, having grown rather interested in the Alakazam's battle style while Lucy takes out another Pokeball.
Ash: Psi, can you keep going? I know that poison must not feel good, but…
Psi: I have Magic Guard, Ash. It is only a mild sick feeling to me. I will be okay… I promise….
Ash: Okay… *to Lucy* We;re ready to continue!
Lucy: Alright, then…. *throws Pokeball* Milotic, prepare for battle!
A stream of light exits the ball and hits the water. As the light fades, a form rises from the pond to reveal a long and rather beautiful looking sea serpent, a tail extending upwards to resemble a fan made of blue and pink scales.
Ash: *takes out Pokedex* Milotic…?
Pokedex: Milotic, the Tender Pokémon. A Water type. With its slender, long body and shimmering, colorful scales, Milotic is said to be the most beautiful of all Pokémon. In fact, it is said to have inspired many artists in their works. When conflict is amok, it has the power to calm angered feelings and end arguments by releasing a wave of soothing energy.
Serena: Wow, it… It's beautiful…
Gary: She must be a tough Trainer. Evolving Milotic from a Feebass is a pretty taxing job and takes a lot of hard work.
Growing curious, Ash searches up this "Feebass" with his Pokedex, showing a rather shabby fish Pokemon with grayish-brown skin and blue fins.
Pokedex: Feebas, the Fish Pokémon. A Water type. Though incredibly ragged looking and often called the "shabbiest" Pokemon, it is extremely hardy and can survive in the most polluted of environments. It is capable of eating anything and living anywhere, even if only a little water is available.
Cobalt: Huh. A fish evolving into a serpent…
Green: It's kinda like a regional girly version of Gyarados… A GIRL-adous, if you will. *to Milotic* No offense!
Milotic: Believe it or not… You're not the first person to make that connection… OR that pun.
Ash: Well… Let's see what she's made of. Psi, use Psychic!
Lucy: Hyrdro Pump!
Miltoic fires a literal geyser of water right as Psi was beginning to focus, sending them to the ground as they groan in pain.
Cobalt: Psi?
Psi: I am alright…
Ash: Alright, then. Use Dark Pulse!
Psi fires a Dark Pulse from their spoons, yet Lucy nor Milotic don't move a muscle, which confuses Ash until she finally makes a move.
Lucy: Use Twister!
An orb of wind appears at the end of Milotic's tail, creating a tornado that hits straight through Psi's Dark Pulse, causing it to disperse before the tornado fades, revealing Milotic right in front of the surprised Psychic-type.
Lucy: Now, Iron Tail!
Suddenly, Milotic strikes Psi with its tail, which has turned into solid metal before they crash into the water, a few bubbles rising.
Green: Oh no!
Ash: No… Psi, are you alright?
Slowly, a shadow emerges from the water… Only to reveal a now unconscious Psi floating on the water's surface on their back, limbs now limp.
Referee: Alakazam can no longer battle, Milotic wins!
Barbara and the other girls cheer for Lucy's win, happy to see their queen finally take out one of Ash's Pokemon.
Brock: Well done, my Queen Lucy!
Serena: BROCK!
Brock: *stops* Sorry.
From above, Melody frowns sadly as she watches Ash return Psi back into their Pokeball.
Ash: Thanks a lot, Psi. You did everything you could.
Green: Alright, no more kid games! It's all up to Green! Time for me to make my Battle Frontier deb-
But before Green could hop onto the field, Ash had already thrown a Pokeball.
Ash: Jaws, I choose you!
Lucy looks in surprise at the sight of Ash's Dracovish, which cries out as they land on the field.
Green: WHAT?! Are you crazy?!
Cobalt: Green has a point, Ash. Jaws is a Water and Dragon type. All of their moves except one don't do much damage and that Milotic has Twister, which is super effective! Why choose Jaws over Green or Membra?
Ash: Like Sabrina said, guys… "Don't rely so much on type advantage, or what you think is type advantage." What if that Milotic has a move that can counter Electric or Grass types, it'd make sense. At least with Jaws, even if they don't have any super effective moves, they won't be taken down so easily…
Cobalt: Well…. Okay then, Ash. If that's what you think… I trust you.
Green nods in agreement as Ash gets himself ready.
Ash: Alright, Jaws, use Hydro Pump!
Lucy: Use Hydro Pump, as well!
Both Jaws and Milotic use Hydro Pump, and the two streams of water collide. The two Pokemon continue to use the attacks to best the other, but even as Jaws is sent back a bit, the Dracovish remains strong as the streams of water die down.
Ash: Dragon Rush to get close!
Lucy: Milotic, Iron Tail!
Both Pokemon charge at each other with Jaws surrounded in a blue draconic aura and Milotic's tail turned into iron.
Ash: Use Fishious Rend!
Jaws' mouth glows blue as the Dragon Rush dissipates, both fangs and tailock onto each other for a moment before Milotic pushes back, sending Jaws flying into a wall.
Ash: Jaws, no!
Gary: I hate to say it, but that's a creative way to use Iron Tail. Using it as both a defensive and offensive is pretty clever.
Scott: That's Lucy for you. She never teaches her Pokemon defensive moves.
Brock: And it's so brilliant! Attacking is one of her principles in attacking and in love. We are really meant to be!
Barbara: *woman holds her back* Shut up, you! Don't make me come over there and pummel you into a pulp for making claims like that in Queen Lucy's presence.
But as Barbara rebukes Brock, Lucy blushes again with a soft smile on her face as if she feels at peace from hearing the young man's declaration. Her moment is short-lived, however, when Ash speaks.
Ash: None of your Pokémon use defensive moves?
Lucy: What can I say? Sometimes… It's best to rely on a little LUCK…
Ash: Well, we'll show you how luck helps us! Jaws, use Ice Fang!
Jaws gets up with a few scratches on their body and charges at Milotic again, fangs now covered in a case of ice. Lucy frowns at the display both for disturbing her private moment and because she sees little value in her challenger's move.
Lucy: Use Twister.
Milotic fires another Twister from its tail, but Jaws keeps running through the cyclone.
Ash: Come on, Jaws! You can push through this, I know it! Just keep running!
Though in pain, the fossil Pokemon kept charging before they jump and turn around, the Twister spinning Jaws the same direction they were turning. Milotic keeps using Twister, hoping to push Jaws back, only for them to make it all the way to her and bite down with ice-covered fangs.
Ash: Nice one, Jaws!
Lucy: Milotic, use Facade now!
And just like that, Ash's confidence falters as he watches Milotic quickly summons an orange aura around its body and rams into Jaws, sending them flying into the air and crashing into the ground just a few feet away from Milotic.
Barbara: Go, Lucy! Go, go, Queen Lucy!
Brock: Way to go, Lucy! Such a quick response after getting hit by Ice Fang!
Gary: Brock, will you knock that shit off already?! I thought you said you are rooting for both sides.
Serena: Yeah, Gary's right! Cheer for Ash, too, why don't you?"
Brock hesitates and struggles to make another response again.
Brock: I...I...I can't help it! I want to cheer for Lucy!
Lucy's cheeks turn red again, and she smiles while putting her hand on her heart. She can feel it fluttering at the sound of Brock's words as he openly chooses to root for her over his friend and it makes her feel happy inside. Although, she won't lie that she wished he'd cheer for Ash just as much.
Green: TRAITOR!
Ash: *sarcastically* Nice to know who I can count on to support me in battles. *to Jaws* You okay?
Jaws: *pained, but joyous* Yeah~! That spinny-wind was fun! Can I go again? Please~?
Green: *sarcastically* Our final hope, everybody! Lo and behold!
Cobalt: Wait… Spinny-wind?... That's it! Ash, I have an idea! I want you to-
He quickly gains a feeling of wariness of having Lucy see Ash talk to him, so instead, Cobalt places a paw on his Trainer's shoulder and closes his eyes, using his aura to tell him his plan telepathically. Ash was shocked by the action at first, but becomes surprised at Cobalt's plan as soon as his Lucario lets go.
Ash: I… Okay, it's worth a shot… Jaws, use Dragon Rush on yourself!
Without question, Jaws surrounds themselves in blue energy as the audience and even Lucy look surprised, only for the Pike Queen to become serious.
Barbara: Seems he can't take the heat, since he's taking himself out. The best kind of battle!
Lucy: This match is over. Use Twister!
Once again, Milotic summons yet another Twister as it fires right at Jaws, whis surrounded by blue energy.
Serena: Ash, look out!
Ash: Now, Dragon Rush along the Twister!
Much to Lucy's shock, the Dracovish actually runs INTO the attack, only this time, running in conjunction with the Twister as the energy surrounded them releases sparks and small bolts.
Ash: That's it, Jaws! Keep going!
Brock: Now, I get it… Ash had his Dracovish use Dragon Rush on itself to power itself up and brace itself to ride out the Twister!
Scott: Damn, that Ash… he SURE is something…
Barbara: You can try to use an electric attack like that all day, but it won't work! Lucy is prepared to counter whatever electric moves come her way!
Ash: We'll see about that! Keep going!
Jaws growls and grunts as they keep rushing alongside the Twister. However, from the outside, the Twister started to morph and reverse direction.
Lucy: What?
Before she knew it, Milotic's Twister became blue and morphed into a dragon's head. Not only that, it turned around and was heading STRAIGHT for her! The attack made contact, launching Milotic out of the water as Jaws lands on a platform in the middle of the water area. However, the Dracovish started to let out strained grunts as the spikes on their chest began to glow.
Green: What's happening to Jaws?
Ash: *worried* Are you okay, Jaws?
The big abomination didn't respond. However, the glowing finally solidified and Jaws lets out a loud guttural roar as suddenly, large vice-like spikes made of red energy form from the spikes on their chest. Ash and his starts gasp in shock as Jaws growls and the energy spikes on their chest open and close.
Scott: Well, I'll be…
Serena: Gary?... Explanation?
Gary: I-I don't know! All I can think is that maybe the collision of Dragon-type moves awakened some sort of dormant power inside Jaws. But what matters now is… How can Ash use it?
Lucy: Enough of this! Facade, go!
Ash: Jaws, get in there!
As Milotic began to charge, Jaws… actually smirked as they spoke with a growl in their voice.
Jaws: How would you like a BIIIG hug?!~
Milotic: Wha-ACK!
Milotic suddenly finds her attack interrupted as the energy spikes restrain her, keeping her in Jaws' clutches.
Lucy: What the hell?!
Brock: Milotic can't get away!
The spines keeping Milotic restrained tighten, making the Tender Pokémon grunt in pain as Ash sees his opportunity.
Ash: Alright, Jaws, combine Dragon Rush and Fishious Rend! Use Tidal Fang!
Jaws' bottom jaw glows again, only for Dragon Rush's blue aura to surround their head and form the dragon head shape.
Lucy: Iron Tail, quick!
But it was too late as Jaws bites down on Milotic's head and tightens their grasp before a large explosion of energy covers the field, nearly blinding everyone as they shield their eyes. As the explosion disappears, Brock, Lucy, Barbara, and Lucy's other sisters can do nothing but watch in shock as Jaws' energy claws disappear and the Tender Pokémon falls to the ground, unconscious. The light-blue haired girl sighs sadly baffled she raises her left arm and says in a softer voice.
Referee: Milotic is unable to battle. Dracovish wins, which means the victory goes to Ash, the challenger.
Gary: Alright! Way to go, Ashy-Boy!
Serena: You won!
Scott: *smirks* Well done, Ash.
Ash: We won… We won! Way to go, Jaws, you-
Cobalt and Green celebrated with their hands together and doing a little dance, only to spot Jaws acting like his normal jolly self… and biting their Trainer's head.
Cobalt: *sighs* Never change, Jaws… Never change…
Meanwhile, Lucy, her sisters, and Brock stare at her fallen Pokemon sadly before the Frontier Brain returns it back into its Pokeball.
Lucy: You battled well, my beauty. Thank you…
The Pike Queen meets with Ash and his Pokémon on the other side of the battlefield, giving him a proud smile.
Lucy: That was an interesting way to use Twister to your advantage. I can't say I've seen Pokémon do a trick like your… Dracovish, was it called?
Ash: Well, they prefer Jaws, but it's nothing really. *pats Cobalt's shoulder* Cobalt here inspired the idea…. Although, I wouldn't have been looking for a loophole as much if Barbara wasn't boasting so much about your counter moves.
Lucy: Yes, I suppose her pride has led to my downfall this time, but I still put up with her… I have to, really. She's the only one knows how to pay bills online. Still, your Pokemon were very powerful, and to have your bond with your Alakazam and Dracovish be so strong that you can understand it and use that bond in battle is remarkable…
Like the other Frontier Brains, Lucy reaches into her pocket and pulls out another shiny gold coin.
Lucy: Therefore, it is my pleasure to present to you with the trophy for defeating me; the Luck Symbol.
Ash: *takes Symbol* Thank you, Lucy. *to his Pokémon* Just two more until we find out the 7th…
Cobalt: This is gonna be great, I just know it! We're on our way up!
Lucy smiles, pleased to see her challenger be so eager while Scott, Gary, Grookey, Serena, Brock, and Lucy's sisters walk over from the bleachers to meet them.
Serena: That was a great battle, Ash.
Ash: Thanks, Serena.
Gary: I knew you and that fossil of yours were gonna pull through no problem.
Brock, however, turns to Lucy and takes both her hands, making her cheeks heat up again.
Brock: Dear Lucy, even though you lost, you're still the best to me…
Lucy stares at him bashfully. In her mind, she is trying to force herself to say something, but she feels a sudden sense of shyness from being so close to Brock, who is encouraging her with such a kind and warm look in his squinting eyes. Unfortunately, she only manages to open her mouth halfway when a hand grabs poor Brock firmly by the ear and drags him off.
Barbara: How many times do I have to tell you to stay away from Queen Lucy?! I oughta drag you all the way outside and tie you to a tree."
Ash and his friends sweatdrop as they watch Barbara dragging Brock toward the exit while Lucy lowers her head in disappointment.
Gary: That's what you get for not supporting your friend…
Green: Damn straight.
Ash: Anyway… We probably should be going anyway. Scott, where's the next Frontier Brain?
Scott: Well, seems I'll be doing you a favor, seeing as how you seem real stressed and all thanks to my Brains. Your next challenge is Spenser of the Battle Palace. Pretty remote location, though. He resides in Akala Island in the sunny, tropical Alola region.
Ash nods to the man's instructions, but he immediately perks up and becomes excited as to where his next challenge is located.
Ash: Alola?... I'm going to Alola?!
Scott: Yessir. You been, kiddo?
Ash: You could say that. Plus, it'll be great to look up to heading there after Serena's Contest in Petalburg.
Scott: Then let's be on our way. I'll give you kids a lift back yo Lilycove.
Barbara: *snarls* Yes, and PLEASE take your friend with you.
The group sighs as they leave the Battle Pike, leaving Lucy to bid Ash good luck in his future battles… And a longing for the older teen that seemed to have touched her heart.
—-
After being driven back to Lilycove by Scott, the group bids him farewell as he drives off. An hour or so afterwards, the group has dinner together before finally, they gather at the port, Brock standing in front of them with John and Croagunk by his side and facing Ash and his own posse.
Ash: It's been great traveling with you again, Brock. Even if it was for a little bit.
Brock: Same here, really felt like old times… Oh, before I forget!
The older teen reaches into his backpack and fishes out a piece of paper, which he hands to Ash.
Brock: I thought Cobalt would like you to have this.
Ash: Is… *takes paper* Is this…?
Brock: *nods* Mm-hmm. It's my recipe for my Pecha Berry Pokemon food.
Cobalt: Brock, my friend, you are a GODSEND! Never leave my life!
The Lucario hugs Brock's ankles as the group laughs at his antics. Although, Green looks away to look at John, who looks away from him as he approaches.
Green: So… Before you evolved…. Did you hear me say-
John: Yes.
His eyes grow wide from the confirmation as a blush overcomes his face, but he keeps going.
Green: So… The berries you gave me the day we met… Were you trying to-
John: Yes.
Green: And… the hand holding… Was it also your-
John: Yes.
Green: So you-
John: Yes!
Green: *blush intensifies* Oh… So, I… I know this...whole leaving...thing, but… We're like… a thing now...right?
John: YES, YES, YES I WANT THAT SO MUC- *calms down* I mean… That was the plan, so….
Green: Just 'cause, I can't alway...I can't always read- And… And I'm still doing the Battle Frontier, so-
John: I-I can wait… And when it's over… Let's do something?
Green: Like… y-yeah….
John: *blushes* Yay... *nervously giggles*
Both primate and reptile smile and blush before Green kneels down to embrace John, who hugs him back. Cobalt watches the scene, smiling for his brother finally getting the hint from the Annihilape, while Ash and Brock held the same smile but let them have their moment. Sure, Brock didn't get Lucy's number, but he was at least happy for his Pokemon.
Brock: Well… I guess this is it.
Serena: It was nice meeting you, Brock.
Gary: Yeah, and don't worry. *headlocks Ash* I'll keep this knucklehead in check…
Brock nods as he hugs Ash farewell before he leaves with his 2 Fighting types and boards the ferry that'd take him back to Kanto.
Brock: Ash!
Ash: Yeah?!
Brock: I'll tell Misty you say hi! And I'll be sure we're both waiting for you so we can celebrate you beating the final Frontier Brain! Promise!
Ash: …Promise…
Meanwhile, Lucy is seen approaching a nice looking cottage as she releases Seviper and Milotic. Both serpents nuzzle her lovingly, who pets them back before waving them off, with Seviper entering through a pet door in the front door and Milotic slithering to the backyard and hopping into a pool just as Lucy opens the front door and walks inside.
Lucy: I'm home.
In the living room, a Snorlax smiles at the sight of Lucy, as does the Abra resting beside it. Both Pokemon walk past Seviper as it rests on the couch and approach Lucy to welcome her. A Skitty, Swinub, Makuhita, and Cyndaquil approach as well as the Skitty and Swinub jump into her arms.
Lucy: My sweethearts! It's so nice looking into those beautiful eyes after a hard day's battling… *blushes* Actually, they remind me of the eyes of someone I met just today.
Meanwhile, Brock looks on with a blush as he and his Pokemon wave Ash and his friends off as the boat deports. Croagunk smirks up at Brock as he softly speaks to himself while looking at the ever shrinking Hoenn region.
Brock: Lucy… Forever in my heart…
Back at the port, the group had finally stopped waving as they spoke.
Green: That's four Brains down, each of them are so different. I wonder how this Spenser guy will act?
Ash: We'll see, Green, once we beat him and get our next Symbol.
Gary: Well, in that case, let's head for the bus so we can get to Petalburg. Then we can hop another boat near Littleroot Town for Alola.
Serena: Sounds like a good plan.
As our heroes leave the port, Green looks back at the boat, a smile forming on his face and a blush clashing his green skin before shaking it off and joining the others, ready to continue their road to complete the Battle Frontier. Meanwhile, the same familiar figure giggles as she watches them leave, the battle earlier exciting her and giving her a rather good idea on Ash.
And that's when she knew… She made her decision…
TO BE CONTINUED…..
—-
Ash's Team
Lucario: Cobalt
Sceptile: Green
Alakazam: Psi
Gengar: Yami
Charizard: Aidan
Inteleon: Azula
Togekiss: Kestrel
Lycanroc *Dusk form: Hunter
Marowak: Kabu
Dracovish: Jaws
Eelektrik: Membra
Rotom: Sparky (at Oak's lab)
Umbreon *shiny: Blacky (at home)
Serena's Team
Braixen: Kyubi
Murkrow: Lucky
Oshawott: Oliver
Gary's Team
Blastoise
Jolteon
Arctozolt
Grookey