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
Homefield Advantage
After winning his four exhibition matches on the elemental fields, Ash has finally made it to the Top 16, where he'll be battling in the famous Indigo Stadium. However, he was very surprised to see that his first opponent was his rival, Gary Oak.
Gary: Lucky you…. Your stay in the Indigo Stadium's about to be a short one….
Ash: *irked* I wouldn't be bragging too soon, Gary. I'm not going to lose to you this time.
Green: Got that right, jerk!
Gary: Hey, Ash…. *digs into pocket* Remember this?
The other boy then pulls out what seemed to be the shrunken piece of a rusted and old Pokeball, this one being a ball's top. This however caused Ash to look in shock hat Gary had the piece.
Cobalt: Half of an old Pokeball?
Gary: Yeah, I thought so…
Ash: Of course I do! Its the other half of the Pokeball when we tied.
Misty: "Tied"? He kept half of a Pokeball from they tied?
Brock: Guess so.
Gary: Wrong! I consider that one a loss! As far as I'm concerned, a time with you IS a loss.
Ash: I keep forgetting, you keep saying things that make me not like you.
Gary: *rolls eyes* Starting now, the tournament's gonna be enforcing 6-on-6 battles. That means one thing… You're toast!
Ash: I wouldn't be so sure, Gary.
Gary: *chuckles* Well, it's YOUR funeral.
As Gary walked off, Ash and his starters growled in anger, while Misty and Brock just shook their heads in disappointment. Though of course, they didn't expect any less.
—-
Luckily, Ash's match wasn't until tomorrow, so he had the rest of the day to come up with a strategy, specifically what Pokemon to use. In the bedroom, Ash was with his more abodable Pokemon as he dig through his bag,
Psi: What are you looking for, Ash?
Ash: I know it's in here somewhere. I just know I packed it- A-ha! Found it!
Out of his bag, Ash fished out a small drawstring bag, which he opened to pull out another half of an old, shrunken Pokeball, only it was the bottom.
Green: Hey, that's the other half of the Pokeball Gary had, right?
Ash: Yep. We both have a half because it broke in two. But this one's special. It's the very first Pokeball I had just before I started my journey.
He then went on to tell a story of right before he started his journey, he and Gary were fishing by a stream. He had managed to hook a Magikarp, (which proceeded to slap him in the face before landing back into the water) and Gary taunted Ash for being unable to name any of Magikarp's attacks due to being caught off-guard, including the Flail that was used on him. When both Ash and Gary caught a bite, both reeled in their lines but discovered that they had both hooked onto the same rusted Poké Ball.
Ash: And after we tried tugging it away from each other, the Ball broke in two.
Azula: Why keep it if Gary's just going to be sour about it?
Ash: I always kept it as a good luck charm, in a way.
Cobalt: Like with my wood carving….
Ash: Exactly. It carries all of my dreams of being a Pokemon Master. I tied with him then and I lost to him in school and I think I know why. I guess… I wasn't ready to beat him at the time. *determined* But I AM ready now, and I'm looking forward to this rematch!
As his team gave out a yell of agreement, Ash picked up the small bag to put the ball back in, only to accidentally drop the bag and cause something else to slip out. Looking down, Kestrel picked it up to show that was slipped out was a photograph. On it was a honey blonde haired girl in a pink dress with a red horizontal stripe and also wearing a straw hat. Next to her was a younger Ash, who was holding her hand while wearing a goofy smile on his face.
Kestrel: Who's that?
Ash: Oh, that's Serena, one of my older friends. I met her at summer camp when I was seven years old.
Yami: Summer camp? The same one where you met Goh?
Ash: Yeah, but I met her a year after I met them. I found her in the woods with a scraped knee. I remember trying to cast a spell or something on it to try and make her feel better. *chuckles* Anyway, I helped her out of the forest and after that, we became best friends…. *saddened* But a year later, she had to move away. I haven't seen her since.
Cobalt placed a comforting paw on his trainer's shoulder as smeone knocked on the bedroom door, opening to reveal Misty.
Misty: Hey, Ash. We're going to go get some lunch, you want in?
Ash: *smiles* Of course.
Later on, Ash and his friends are seen outside at a table, eating their meal as their Pokemon enjoy Brock's Poke Chow.
Misty: So, what type of Pokemon does Gary have the most of? Maybe that could help you.
Ash: I know a few of his more consistent members are Blastoise, Nidoking, and Arcanine. But after them, I got nothing. Aftera all, he rotates his party. He's been that way for as long as I could remember.
Brock: Not only that, it's a totally differen tstory now that you're facing Gary 6-on-6. And even though you technically have 7 Pokemon in your party, you're still under restriction. So youll have to choose wisely.
Suddenly, Ash was nearly knocked over as a small ball barreled right into his stomach from the side. After prying the ball away from him, Ash and his party were astonished at the sight of it being Sparky, who now seemed to sort of sweatband around his body.
Sparky: Hi, guyz!
Ash: Sparky?! Why are you here?
Sparky: Professor Oak iz coming over to watch the match, zo he put Tracey in charge of the lab while we're gone!
Green: Uh huh. And the sweatband?
Sparky: Ash'z mom made it for me.
Ash: Well, I'm glad to see you, Sparky. You came at a great time.
As the Rotom giggled and nuzzled Ash, the boy looked on and gained a stern expression as Gary sat down near the table he was at, holding a coffee and staring right back at him.
Misty: It's Gary….
Yami: Oh goodie….
Gary: ….Good afternoon, Ashton.
Ash: Gareth.
The two simply stared at each other as the others watched, unsure of what was about to happen.. But then, a familiar shiny Umbreon stormed onto the scene, yelling at the ground. Upon closer inspection, Cobalt noticed that the Umbreon now wore a red and gold collar around his neck.
Blacky: You shall never take me alive, groud tentacles! I swear on my life as a child of the moon!
Ash: Blacky, you too?!
Gary: Huh?
Blacky: Oh, hi Ash.
Prof. Oak: There you are, Blacky.
The group turned around, spotting not just Professor Oak, but also Delia, Red, Daisy, and Hunter walking up to them, the Lycanroc now wearing a spiked collar and matching bands on all four of her ankles.
Gary: Gramps? *surprised* Daisy?
Ash: Mom? Dad? Hunter? What are you doing here?
Delia: The professor invited us to come watch you two battle and we just had to come to cheer you on.
Ash: *softens* Thanks, Mom.
Red: Don;t thank us, son. After all, you're in the Top 16. We just had to see you live and your mother said she could come with the rest of your Pokemon to hold onto them in case you need to switch out.
Delia: After all, I only have two slots filled.
Prof. Oak: My my, so you two are competing against one another?
Gary: Uh… Yeah.
Daisy: Well, relax, you big dummy. If you keep being this tense, neither of you will be able to compete.
Gary: …*smiles* Guess you're right.
Prof. Oak: By the way… You two have your Pokedexes, right?
The group now stood inside as both Ash and Gary's Pokedexes were plugged into a computer that the professor typed on.
Prof. Oak: I've been doing much more research and have decided to give you two an upgrade. Not only will I give you such information and give you the latest model, both of your parties will have their limits expanded from 6 and 7 to 12. After all, you two are my star pupils… Okay, that should do it.
He then stopped typing and handed Ash and Gary two new Pokedexes (same ORAS model as Serena), with Ash's being red and Gary's being crimson. The two were amazed, not only were they given new Pokedexes, but now they could keep MORE Pokemon? How crazy is that?!
Prof. Oak: Here you go, you two.
Ash: Woah, I… I don't know what to say. Thank you, Professor.
Gary: Yeah. Thanks, Grandpa. I, uh….. I gotta go. *bows* Excuse me.
He then walks away, leaving Ash and his party confused.
Ash: Gary?
Red: Don't worry too much, son. I bet he just needs to think up his battle strategy.
Brock: Hey Ash, we should probably work on your strategy too.
Ash: *nods* Right. Excuse us, but we need to get to work.
He was stopped by his mother for a second while his team went outside with Misty and Brock. However, Green took Aiden into a small sidebar away from the group.
Aiden: Green, what are you doing?
Green: Do you remember the way to route 1 from here? And do you know how to play a grass whistle?
Aiden: Uh… Yes and no. Why?
Green: ….*picks up two blades of grass* I'll teach you this melody. Afterwards… I need you to do me a favor.
—-
Ash and his party spent the rest of the day going over several battle strategies over what Pokemon Gary would use in the match. Though as Ash, Cobalt, and Green were about to enter… The boy realized something.
Ash: Wait, where's Aiden?
Green: No need to worry. He should be here in-
Aiden: HEY!
Green: Huh. He's early.
The other two spotted Aiden flying down from above, on his back laid a Sceptile and a Grovyle. Though anyone would just see them as wild Pokemon, Ash recognized them right away.
Ash: Arthur?
Arthur: Hello, Ash.
Cobalt: *happily* Mom, Dad! What are you guys doing here?
Ivena: Well, your friend told us Green sent him to come get us so we can watch you all battle in the League. The Top 16… *wipes eyes* I'm so proud of my boys.
Arthur: We left Jimbo in charge of the tribe until we go back. The tribe sends its regards, Ash. You can win this.
Ash smiled and hugged the Sceptile and Grovyle, who proceeded to hug him back before he, Cobalt, and Green walked into the stadium as Ash returned Aiden to his Pokeball, which he gave Arthur to give to Misty to hold onto. As they walked, Ash shielded his eyes as he saw Gary on the other side of a massive battlefield, smirking at him as the crowd erupted into cheers.
Announcer: The day of the Indigo Conference Top 16 match-up battles is about to begin! It's been an arduous journey for the 16 trainers who have made it this far in the Pokemon League, but I guarantee you'll witness a competition you'll never forget! All matches shall be full on 6-on-6 battles despite any sort of trainer having the privilege of being able to carry more! We wanna keep it fair here, folks!
In the stands, Misty, Brock, Daisy, the Professor, and Ash's parents all sat in excitement for the match as Delia got out a camera. However, they were all spooked as Arthur and Ivena suddenly charged through the other spectators and sit by them.
Arthur: 'Scuse us. Sorry.
Ivena: Just trying to see our sons win.
Announcer: The current match after the battle between Alain and Richie are Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town against Gary Oak…. Also from Pallet Town! One of them is the grandson of one of the world's most esteemed scholars while the other has made quite a name for himself here in the Indigo Plateau! This is sure to be one of the finest matches you'll see anywhere!
Cheerleaders: Gary, Gary, he's our man! If he can't do it, no one can! YEAH!
Cobalt: Oh goodie, just what I missed the most about this guy.
Announcer: Fasten your seatbelts, folks! This battle's about to turn red hot as it's about to begin! Gary Oak has won the oin toss, so let's see who he chooses!
Gary: Alright…. *throws Pokeball* Nidoking, go!
Ash: Just fine with me. *throws Pokeball* Psi, I choose you!
Both balls opened, revealing Ash's Alakazam staring down against Gary's Nidoking.
Referee: As said before, this will be a 6-on-6 battle! Both trainers are allowed to substitute at any time, but no items allowed! Let the match begin!
Gary: Nidoking, use Poison Jab!
Ash: Psi, use Protect then Psychic!
Psi protected themself with a shield, taking on Nidoking's Poison Jab before levitating the massive crature and flinging him back.
Gary: Actually using the type match-ups. I'm actually impressed… But we can do type-matchups too! Nidoking, use Beat Up!
Suddenly, Nidoking then rammed forward and started beating down on Psi brutally before slamming them into a wall, causing them to groan out.
Green: Oh crap!
Ash: A Dark-type move…. Psi, can you still battle?!
Psi: *groans, gets up* I will live.
Gary: Now Nidoking, Drill Run!
Nidoking's horn spun as he then charged, forcing Psi to await for the right signal.
Ash: Throw it up with Psychic!
Just as it was about to strike, Nidoking was flung into the air by Psi.
Ash: Dark Pulse!
Gary: Use Megahorn!
Nidoking's horn turned green and elongated as several Dark Pulses hit. Though the hits landed, it wasn;t enough as Nidoking landed the supereffective Bug-type move on Psi, causing Nidoking to get back on his feet shakily as Psi was knocked out cold.
Referee: Alakazam is unable to battle, the winner is Nidoking!
Announcer: Inconcievable! Ash has lost his first Pokemon in the first round after a long streak of winning such rounds. This Gary fella is no joke, I'll tell you that much!
Gary: Nice work, Nidoking!
As the cheerleaders cheered, Ash recalled Psi back to their ball.
Ash: Psi, thank you. You were amazing, now get some rest…. *throws Pokeball* Azula, I choose you!
Just as Ash's Inteleon stepped onto the field from her ball, Gary recalled Nidoking.
Green: What the- What's he doing?
Cobalt: Gary knows Nidoking has a type disadvantage against a Water-type, so he must be switching to a Grass or Electric type.
Gary: Alright, Exeggutor! *throws Pokeball* Let's go!
Gary's ball summoned what seemed to be a walking palm tree with three heads resembling coconuts.
Ash: *takes out Pokedex* Exeggutor? Time to see what this new Pokedex can do.
Pokedex: Exeggutor, the Coconut Pokémon and the evolved form of Exegggcute. A Grass and Psychic type. Exeggutor is known as "The Walking Jungle." Its three heads can think independently, but since they get along so well, there's never an argument.
Ash: Alright, better get the first shot in. Azula, use Surf!
Gary: Exeggutor, Energy Ball!
Just as the Coconut Pokemon unleashed an Energy Ball, Azula rode on a wave, where she then jumped off just as the two attacks collided.
Gary: Woah.
Ash: Use Snipe Shot!
Azula fired off multiple spurts of water from her fingers, hitting Exeggutor in the back and making it stumble.
Gary: *growls* Use Psyshock!
Exeguttor's eyes glowed as it fired purple lightning bolts at Azula, making her take damage as she landed.
Gary: Now, use Bullet Seed!
Ash: No way, Gary! Azula, out of sight!
Nodding, Azula suddenly turned invisible just as Exeggutor started its seed barrage, though it stopped in confusion as it looked around.
Gary: The hell, where'd it go?!
Announcer: It seems that Ash's Inteleon has vanished out of thin air. Is this a unique ability or did she just get Thanos Snapped?
Ash: Now, while he can't see you, use Liquidation!
Suddenly, small swirling masses of water appeared and struck Exeggutor, knocking it over. As it landed on the ground, it kicked its feet, unable to stand up.
Gary: Hmmph… Not bad.
Ash: Now, finish with Ice Beam!
Azula blasted the tree with a beam of cold, freezing it solid and knocking it out of the battle.
Referee: Exeggutor is unable to battle, the winner is Inteleon!
Ash: Good work, Azula! See that. Gary? My Pokemon have just as good of a chance as you'rs to win even at a disadvantage.
Gary: *recalls Exeggutor* Yeah, yeah, I see it. Slick move with that Ice Beam, though. But that won't be enough to cover it! *throws Pokeball* Jolteon, go!
Gary released his next Pokemon, which happened to be a snarling and sparking Jolteon. Ash contemplated switching Azula out, but the Inteleon looked back at him.
Azula: No need to worry, Ash. I got this.
Ash: Are you sure?
Azula nodded at him, which caused him to smile back.
Ash: Alright then, use Snipe Shot!
Gary: Jolteon, Pin Missile!
Both barrages of shots collide with one another, ending in a stalemate. However, Ash knew that Azula won't last long due to the type advantage. Seeing this, he brainstormed and came up with something.
Ash: Hmm...I wonder… Now Snipe Stot!
Gary: Not this time, Ash-boy. Jolteon, use Thunderbolt!
Jolteon charged up to unleash its next attack, but Ash then said something else.
Ash: Now, spin!
Gary: Wait, what?
Smirking, Azula stood on the tips of her toes and spun quickly, blasting water spurts in all directions.
Gary: Jolteon, dodge it!
The spiked Pokemon tried to dodge the shots, only to be tripped up and get hit by the Sipe Shots, over and over. No matter what Jolteon did, it always got hit.
Gary: What? Why can't Jolteon dodge?
Ash: This is an Azula classic, Gary! Say hello to the Counter Shield!
Announcer: WHAT AN INTERESTING TECHNIQUE! I WONDER WHY WE HAVEN'T SEEN IT BEFORE? EITHER WAY, JOLTEON IS STUCK IN A WHIRLING DERVISH OF WATER! HOW WILL GARY GET OUT OF THIS?!
Gary looked at the scene, trying to find some way to make it stop. But as he looked on, he noticed that Azula was rooted to one spot as she used the counter shield, which gave him an idea.
Gary: Now, Jolteon! Thunder!
Jolteon then reared its head back and cried to the sky as a large lightning bolt rained down and hit Azula dead on.
Announcer: Unbelieveable! Due to Inteleon having to keep up the shield, Gary found the opportunity to use a horribly accurate supereffective! But is it enough?
However, this turned out to be true as Azula eventually slowed her spinning and fell to the side, goraning as she slipped into unconsciousness.
Referee: Inteleon is unable to battle, the winner is Jolteon!
Ash: Azula, return! *recalls Azula* Thanks for starting things up, Az. Get some rest. Cobalt?
Cobalt: *nods* On it!
Cobalt then jumps over the rails and adopts a fighting pose as the referee restarts the match.
Gary: Thunderbolt!
Ash: Use Aura Sphere!
Jolteon unleashed a Thunderbolt as Cobalt threw an Aura Sphere, causing a collision and an explosion.
Ash: Metal Claw!
Cobalt leapt through the smoke, striking the canine-like Pokemon with extended paw spikes as he landed.
Gary: Use Double Kick!
Ash: Cobalt, grab it!
As Jolteon leapt up to kick the Lucario, he grabbed the Jolteon's leg and held him up.
Ash: Now, Force Palm!
Cobalt slammed his paw nto Jolteon's stomach, sending him careening into a wall and knocking him out on impact.
Gary: Jolteon, no!
Referee: Jolteon is unable to battle, the winner is Lucario!
Red: There we go!
Delia: *takes picture* You're doing great, honey!
Ivena: That's our boy! Get 'em!
Announcer: *as Gary recalls Jolteon* And Lucario takes out Jolteon! This could be just what Ash needs to turn this around, but who will Gary pick next?
Gary: *throws Pokeball* Nidoking, come back out!
Announcer: *as Nidoking appears* And Nidoking returns for a second appearance!
Ash: Careful now, Cobalt. You may be immune to Poison Jab, but it's also a Ground type.
Cobalt: Don't worry, Ash. I won't let you down.
Gary: Nidoking, Drill Run!
Ash: Dodge it!
Cobalt quickly jumped over the Nidoking as it charged.
Ash: Force Palm!
As Cobalt used Force Palm on the Nidoking, it turned around. But it then stopped and flinched as it struhhled to move.
Gary: Nidoking! What's wrong?!
Announcer: Oooh, and Nidoking succumbs to Force Palm's paralysis effect!
Green: Woah, good move, Ash! How'd you know Force Palm could cause paralysis?
Ash: Uh…. I didn't. Now Cobalt, use Aura Sphere!
Gary: Nidoking, use Megahorn!
Though it was a struggle, Nidoking charged with a green horn, which struck Cobalt just as he threw his Aura Sphere!
Gary: Come on, Nidoking! One more time, you can do this!
Ash: Cobalt, I believe in you!
Both Pokemon were panting and exhausted, which was even worsefor Nidoking due to its paralysis.
Ash: Steel Beam!
Gary: Use Beat Up!
Cobalt fired a large silver beam as Nidoking beat up the Lucario fiercfully. The impact of both attacks were so great, both Pokemon were knocked out at the same time.
Gary: Another tie?... Seriously?!
Referee: Both Lucario and Nidoking are unable to battle! This match is a draw!
Announcer: And just like that, both trainers tie with only 3 Pokemon left! Let' see who wins this one.
Both trainers took out a Pokeball while Green leapt onto the field and grabbed Cobalt, leaping back to Ash as he set Cobalt down.
Cobalt: *groans* Ash….
Ash: It's okay, Cobalt. Just rest. We can handle it from here… *throws Pokeball* Kestrel, I choose you!
Gary: Go, Arcanine!
Both Pokemon were sent out, which surprised Gary at the sight of the Togetic.
Gary: A Togetic?... Now that's something admirable.
Ash: What?
Gary: Ash, Togepi only evolve into Togetic when they have a really good bond with their trainer. And seeing how this one is still so young. You must've really taken good care of this guy. I have to say I'm impressed. Now show me what the little guy has!
Ash: I plan to, Gary. Kestrel, use Fairy Wind!
Kestrel flapped his wings to elicit a pink-laced gust, which Arcanine jumped over.
Gary: Use Flamethrower!
Ash: Dodge using Aerial Ace!
The Togetic flew off at lightning fast speed, subsequently striking Arcanine as it dodge.
Gary: Arcanine, Fire Fang!
Arcanine's mouth caught on fire as it bit Kestrel, who yelled out at the burning pain.
Ash: Use Dazzling Gleam!
Kestrel's eyes glowed as he unleashed a large blast of energy, confusing Arcanine a bit from the sudden flash and making it let go.
Gary: Arcanine, are you okay?
The dog shook its head before barking at his master, showing he was just fine.
Ash: Now Kestrel, use Metronome!
Gary: Seriously? Metronome? And here I thought you were getting serious.
Kestrel wagged his fingers back and forth as he kept in the air. Kestrel then flew up as a red, fiery aura surrounded him before he then dive bombed at Arcanine as the aura turned blue. As soon as it struck Arcanine, Kestrel flinched as he sustained recoil damage.
Gary: …*amazed* Woah.
Misty: What was that?
Prof. Oak: That would be Brave Bird. A very powerful Flying-type move that makes the user take damage as well.
Gary: Arcanine, use Fire Blast!
Ash: Use Fairy Wind to blow it back!
As soon as Arcanine unleashed the kanjishaped blast, Kestrel summoned another gale of wind, which then proceeded to push the kanji back and hit Arcanine. Though it didn't do much, it was enough to knock it out.
Referee: Arcanine is unable to battle, the winner is Togetic!
Green: Nice work, kid!
Kestrel: Thanks, Uncle Green! I learned from the best!
Ash: *takes out Pokeball* Thanks a lot, Kestrel. Now come back for now.
Gary: *recalls Arcanine* Arcanine, return! You get a good rest now. *to Ash* Okay, Ashy-boy, not bad, that Togetic's a real fighter, I can tell. You may have more than me, but numbers ain't everything. *throws Pokeball* Go, Scizor!
As Gary's ball opened, it revealed a bipedal red insect with red exoskeleton, a spiked head, and pincers for hands.
Cobalt: *as he gets up* Scizor, what's a Scizor?
Ash: *takes out Pokedex* Let's find out…
Pokedex: Scizor, the Pincer Pokémon and the evolved form of Scyther. A Bug and Steel type. A single swing of one of these pincers will crush a boulder completely. Though its body is slim, Scizor has tremendous attacking power. Even Scizor's muscle tissue has small pieces of metal.
Green: Woah, Scyther can evolve?!
Cobalt: Apparently. Good thing you swapped Kestrel out, he would've had a disadvantage.
Ash: Yeah, but since Aiden's with Misty, we need to do things the hard way. *throws Pokeball* Sparky, I choose you!
Ash's Rotom came into the fray, giggling as he spazzed out a bit before settling.
Gary: Scizor, use Metal Claw!
One of Scizor's pincers turned metallic as it charged towards Rotom, where it then clamped onto him.
Ash: Sparky, use Thunder Wave!
Gary: Deflect it with Crush Claw!
Sparky let out a small spark, which was dissipated by Scizor's other pincer. Luckily, Sparky managed to escape from its grasp.
Ash: Now, Charge Beam!
Gary: Use Bug Buzz!
Wings retracted out from Scizor's back as it flew and unleashed a harsh buzzing, which was overcome by Sparky's Charge Beam. Scizor nearly fell over, but shook its head and growled, a light green aura coating it.
Misty: Something's happening to Scizor.
Brock: That's Swarm.
Misty: Swarm?
Brock: Scizor's ability, if Scizor's in a pinch, the ability boosts the power of Bug-type moves.
Gary: Now, use Swift!
Scizor fired multiple star-shaped rays from its eyes… Which only seemed to phase through the Rotom.
Sparky: Huh?
Gary: What the….. *facepalms* I'M AN IDIOT! I forgot Rotom's part Ghost-type! What kind of expert am I?!
Daisy: Don;t worry, bro! We all make mistakes! Like how our parents did with me!
Delia: ….What?
Arthur: Well, this took a dark turn.
Ash: Now Sparky, Hex, let's go!
Sparky's eyes then glowed purple and red as he created a sphere of black energy with a red eye in the middle. The eye then releases multiple dark blue rings of energy at Scizor, amaking him cave down before collapsing, going unconscious.
Referee: Scizor is unable to battle, the winner is Rotom!
Announcer: And Ketchum is by the hair in this battle! Now with Gary at his very last Pokemon, can the young Oakling find a way to sprout to the top?!
Gary: *recalls Scizor* Alright…. I admit, that was my fault. But now that this is my last Pokemon, the kid gloves are off!
Ash: *smirks* Didn't know you were wearin' them.
Gary: Well, I'm not anymore. *throws Pokeball* Go, Blastoise!
From Gary's Pokeball came forth what's assumed to be his most powerful Pokemon, the one that started his journey; Blastoise. Although something seemed odd about this Blastoise, but Ash couldn't just pinpoint what it was.
Gary: Alright, Blastoise! Use Gyro Ball!
Ash: Sparky, Confuse Ray!
As Sparky sent rays from his eyes, Blastoise tucked into his shell and spun, not only deflecting the Confuse Ray, but also hitting Sparky.
Green: Woah. Never seen Confuse Ray used like that.
Ash: Alright, Sparky, keep on your….. Foot…. Thing. Use Charge Beam!
Gary: *smirks* Not this time. Blastoise! Spin in your shell and use Hydro Pump!
Blastoise then began to spin while in his shell as water then spouted from the open holes in the sides.
Ash: What?! But that's the-
Gary: Yep. I learned that one from you, Ashy.
Cobalt: He… He stole the Counter Shield!
Back on the battlefield, Sparky tried to dodge the water spouts, but they were too frequent and mobile for the Plasma Pokemon to dodge, thus causing Sparky to get hit by ne of them.
Ash: Sparky, no!
As soon as the spout stopped, Sparky fell to the floor, fizzling while now unconscious.
Referee: Rotom is unable to battle, the winner is Blastoise!
Announcer: AND JUST LIKE THAT, BLASTOISE TEACHES THAT TYPE ADVANTAGE IS NEVER ALWAYS A DEUS EX MACHINA! Let's see how Ash gets out of this.
Green: *as Ash recalls Sparky* This is bad. You want me to go in?
Ash: Thanks, Green. But I promised our next battler he'd get a chance to shine… *throws Pokeball* Yami, I choose you!
Yami then appeared on the field, chuckling as he floated above the ground.
Announcer: And Ash's final revealed Pokemon is Gengar! Let's see if this ghoul can match the bulk of Gary's Blastoise!
Gary: Blastoise, use Ice Punch!
Ash: Yami, dodge and use Sludge Bomb!
Blastoise leapt up with a frost coated fist, which Yami dodged and struck back with a Sludge Bomb. The impact of the slimeball sent Blastoise back down into the ground.
Gary: Now, Hydro Pump!
Both of Blastoise's cannons deployed and proceeded their volley upon Yami, who was hit and sent back a bit before settling in front of Ash.
Ash: Are you okay, Yami? Do you need to switch out?
Yami: I… I can handle this, Ash. Biut this guy's really strong. You know what we gotta do, right?
Ash nodded as he looked at the glove. He was reluctant to Mega Evolve his Gengar, but for soem reason… He couldn't remember why. Putting it past him, Ash tapped the stone on his glove, causing both it and Yami's Gengarite to glow.
Ash: Alright, Yami! Show Gary the power of our bond! Mega Evolve!
As both stones glowed, the audience erupted into cheers as Yami sank into the ground as he glowed before rising again, revealing Yami as Mega Gengar.
Gary: So, this is Mega Evolution… Not bad, Ash. But let's make this a fair fight!
Ash: What?
Gary smirked as he turned around the charm of his necklace, revealing a Keystone like the one on Ash's glove.
Cobalt: Another Keystone?!
Gary: Time to fufill my destiny! *taps stone* Now Blastoise, Mega Evolve!
The camera then reveals a ring around Blastoise's tail that was embedded with a pale gray marble with a blue amd brown helix ithin. As the stone glowed, as did Blastoise as it bathed in a cascade of light. As the light faded, Blastoise was revealed to have developed two smaller shells over its arms, each with their own water cannon, while the two cannons on its back are replaced by a single, central water cannon of greater size that can retract into its shell.
Misty: No way….
Brock: Gary can Mega Evolve his Bastoise?! How?!
Prof. Oak: A delivery man gave me a package to give Gary just as he left for the League. I brought it with me to give to him when we separated.
Pokedex: Mega Blastoise, a result of Blastoise being exposed to a sample of Blastoisinite. A Water type. The cannon on Bkastoise's back is as powerful as a tank gun. Its tough legs and back enable it to withstand the recoil from firing the cannon at such high calliburs.
Green: This is getting tense. We've never gone up against a Mega Evolved Pokemon before! We're screwed!
Ash: 'This is tough. Gary can Mega Evolve, now what can we do?... Wait. Blastoise might be stronger… But I bet he's as slow as before. That's it!' Okay Yami, keep on the move and use Venoshock!
Gary: Blastoise, Hydro Pump!
Yami flew across the field at high speeds, firing Venoshock after Venoshock as Blastoise tried to blast him with the cannons on his arms. Both were damaged somewhat, much to Gary's chagrin.
Misty: Come on, Yami, hang in there!
Brock: You can do this!
Arthur: Give them everything you got!
Aiden/Hunter/Blacky: YEAH!
Gary: 'Come on, we have to end this! I can't tie with him again!' Blastoise, use Hydro Cannon!
With a firm stance on the ground, Blastoise fires off a large blast of water off the cannon on his back.
Ash: Dodge it!
Yami attempts to dodge, but the area of the blast is far too great, thus causing Yami to be hit and slam into the wall.
Green: Yami!
Announcer: And Ash's Gengar is hit by Hydro Cannon, one of the most power Water-type moves!
Gary: *overconfident* This battle is over. Though I'll give you this, Ash. You gave me a run for my money.
Though, despite the arrogance of Gary's statement, Ash looked at Yami, who smiled at him and nodded. This got Ash and his partners inspired; I mean, if Yami wasn't gonna give up, why should they?
Ash: Yeah….. Yami, combine Shadow Ball and Hex!
Yami nodded, his forehead eye glowing as he charged up a Shadow Ball whileblasting a Hex at it with his eyes.
Ash: That's it, buddy! Charge it up!
Cobalt: Give it everything you got, Yam!
Green: We believe in you!
Gary: You're just stalling for the inevitable. Blastoise, go!
As Blastoise charged forth, Yami simply smirked as he charged up his Shadow Ball/Hex combo.
Ash: Wait for it…
Gary: Use Ice Punch!
Blastoise's fist encased in ice as he reeled it back, ready to clobber Yami before…
Ash: NOW, DO IT NOW!
With a cackle, Yami propelled the charged Shadow Ball with Hex as Blastoise's fist made contact. As both Pokémon execute their attacks, a huge explosion billows. Everyone remains silent, epsecialy since two glows emanate from the smoke,, the same glows dring Mega Evolution.
Annoncer: A powerful Ice Punch against what I assume was a combination move to lower an opponent's defensive stat and inflict more damage witha special attack, increble! But is it enough?
After the smoke clears, both Yami and Blastoise are seen back to normal, panting with their eyes closed. However, Yami's eyes open as a smile sreakds on his face.
Ash: Alright, Yami.
Gary: So…. It's still not over. *smirks* I still got a shot.
Yami: *coughs, then chuckles* ….Wanna bet?
Suddenly, before Gary could call out another attack, Blastoise gornaed as he fell forward, already being knocked out before it could even do a simple Water gun.
Referee: Blastoise is unable to battle, the winner is Gengar! And that means, the match goes to Ash Ketchum!
As the applause began, both trainers stared at each other in shock as Yami floated up to them, Green and CObalt congratulatingtheir friend on his win.
Announcer: And with a remainder of 2 Pokemon remaining, Ash wins it by a hair! It's been a long and tiring battle, but with some amazon tactics and a privilege of seeing two Mega Evolutions duke it out, we smile as he allows Ash Ketchum into the Top 8!
Ash: *disbelief* I….. I won. And….. And I beat Gary.
Gary simply shrugged as he recalled Blastoise before walking out of the arena. Ash finally let the thought sink in as he smiled and cheered loudly, hugging his three Pokemon tightly before climbing down. He battled Gary, but this time… HE was victorious.
Announcer: As a result of this victory, the quarterfinal battle match-ups wil be posted now!
On the jumbotron, the group looked up to see the next match-ups. Marcus had managed to make it, but what made Ash surprised was the sight of who he was battling.
Ash: We're…. Oh man…
Cobalt: We're battling Alain?
Yami: Well, that's a conflict. *chuckles* Okay, I'm gonna go unconcious now, see you guys later. *collapses*
—-
As soon as Ash got his Pokemon healed and reunited with the others, Ash had tried to go over some battle strategies to use against Alain, only for a pebble to hit his window. Confused and surprised, Cobalt went over to the window only to be met with a Scizor, who now held a note in her incer.
Cobalt: Hey, aren't you Gary's Scizor?
Scizor: Yep. *hands note over* Got a message for your trainer.
Cobalt: Oh, um. *takes note* Thank you.
He then walks back into the room as the Scizor flies off, giving Ash the note which he assumed was written by Gary.
Village Lake
8:30
Come alone (Pokemon are fine)
-G.O.
Despite the oddball request, Ash and Cobalt left later that night, walking over to the lake near the center of the Pokemon Village, where both of them are surprised to see Gary overlooking the lake as he stood near a bench.
Ash: Gary?
Gary: Huh?... Oh, hey Ash. Thanks for coming to see me.
Ash: No problem. So, what's up?
Gary then reached into his pocket, pulling out the same Pokeball half she showed the day before.
Ash: Huh?
Gary: Here. Take it. *gives it to Ash* It belongs to you, you've earned it.
Cobalt was suspicious at first, but while he read Gary's aura, he noticed there wasn't any trace of deceit or hostility. There was a bit, but that was probably just from the rivalry the two boys shared.
Ash: Uh… Thanks.
Gary: That was a good battle. Believe it or not, I don't even feel bad that I lost. See… When we tied almost a year ago, I felt like a failure. But now, I see you've earned this win fair and square.
Ash: I guess. Gotta be honest, I feel like my team and I got a lot stronger just by battling with you today.
Gary: Same here…. Hey. Remember when we used to go by this pond aftr school and skip stones?
Ash: And see who could skip them the farthest, yeah. And what about that time you threw a rock at a Pidgey because you wanted to catch it and we almost got pecked alive by a Spearow.
Gary: *laughs* Yeah. Man, those were the days. Where did it all go?
Ash: Down the drain when you….. Became a snarky, cocky, arrogant douchebag. No offense.
Gary: Oh, I need the offense. Seeing you battle out there and eve knowing you got that Earth Badge, it really made me reflect… I was wrong to talk down to you like that. I guess being "Professor Oak's grandson" doesn't make you automatically invincible.
Ash: Tell me about it.
The two remained in silence as Cobalt stood by Ash, not really sure what to do, but making sure Ash knew he was there if he was needed.
Gary: Hey, Ash?
Ash: Yeah?
Gary: When I said I was sorry back at the Viridian Gym… I meant it. And… If you don't want to, that's fine. But… Do you want to…. Try being friends again?
Ash was genuinely shocked by Gary's request. One of his oldest friends turned tormentor turned semi-frenemy… Asking with unsurity to be friends with him again. Though conflicted, Cobalt decided to chime in.
Cobalt: Ash, I think you should give him another chance. I know if you might have a grudge, but… His words fel really sincere, so… At least take that into consideration.
Ash nodded to his starter before turning to Gary, who awaited his answer.
Ash: Yes. I mean, everyone deserves a second chance. I learned that one from one of my opponents.
Gary smiled at the other boy as they then clasped hands.
Gary: I'll be cheering for you in your next match.
Ash: Glad to hear it, Gary.
Gary: If anyone could win this, it's you. The way you connect with your Pokemon, even the ones you don't rotate, is incredible. *chuckles* Wouldn't even be surprised you could understand what they were saying….
Ash suddenly stiffened, causing Gary to look confused.
Gary: What's up?
Ash: Nothing! Nothing, I…. Uh…..
Gary: Ash, we both know you're a horribl liar. But if you don't want to tell me, it's fine.
Though grateful for Gary's offer, Ash turned to Cobalt, who seemed to read his aura. However, as his assessment ceased, Cobalt gave him a thumbs up, his aura reading that Gary could be trusted.
Ash: *sighs* Gary? There's…. Something I gotta tell you?
Gary: What, you….. Wanna go on a date?
Ash: No, not that! I….. It's a bit of a long story.
Gary: Well, luckily you're looking at a guy who read every Larry Plopper book. I'm the kind of guy who likes long stories, so….
He then sits down on the bench, giving him a friendly smile as he patted the seat next to him. Seeingthis, Ash held a small smile as he sat with Gary as Cobalt sat next to him, his arm hanging over the armrest. Though he was gonna need all the strength he needed to beat Alain, but now…. Ash was just happy to have his old friend back by his side. And now, the two sat down, talking just like old times.
Ash: Let me tell you about the first day of my journey…
TO BE CONITNUED….
—-
Ash's Team
Lucario: Cobalt
Sceptile: Green
Alakazam: Psi
Gengar: Yami
Charizard: Aidan
Inteleon: Azula
Togetic: Kestrel
Rotom: Sparky (at Oak's lab)
Umbreon *shiny*: Blacky (at home)
Lycanroc *Dusk form*: Hunter (at Oak's lab)
Misty's Team
Staryu
Psyduck: Perry
Gyarados: Mel (Malestrom)
Squirtle: Loki
Golisopod: Harold
Butterfree: Alex
Horsea: Jeff (at gym)
Starmie (at gym)
Tentacool: Charles (at gym)
Goldeen: Bella (at gym)
Palpitoad (at gym)
Brock's Team
Onix
Kingler: Neptune
Golbat: Nightwing
Bulbasaur
Croagunk
Mankey: John
Geodude (at gym)
Forrestress (at gym)