Hello one and all to another chapter of Pokemon SVTA where we'll continue where the previous chapter left off with Nemona fulfilling Ash's promise of seeing Serena and May again along with the other challengers who are here in this competition who are battling too. What will happen next and who will come out on top?
So, I'm going to be completely honest when I say that this was the most boring chapter I've written. I was originally going to wait to publish this until I finish the other chapters so you wouldn't be completely bored by repeated fights and a new storyline in this mini arc, but I'm also heading back to college soon so I might not have time for the other chapters, so I decided to post this now. To make up for it though, I'll be working on the next couple of chapters so it might be a bit more time but enough to get my head clear.
Recap
Last time on SVTA, Ash and the gang make it to the city of Levincia for Nemona's next Gym Battle as well as avoiding rabid fans of the Gym Leader Iono trying to find their next gossip piece. However, they find that the Gym is closed for the next couple days so they seek to ease their boredom which is when Ash reunites with Nando who tells everyone of a competition in town reminiscent of Pokemon Contests of Hoenn and Sinnoh and so they participate.
It's there that Ash reunites with Max and learns of May and Serena being there too and seeks to see them again without exposing his identity but loses in the 2nd match and is thus disqualified but fortunately, Nemona decides to help Ash for all he's done to help her and decides to make it to the top so that Ash can see his two beloved friends again with us reaching the 3rd match with Nemona/Aria vs Armazon.
Main Story
We see Crocalor and guest Pokemon Haxorus focused on Armazon's Alolan Raichu and Rhyperior as the silence was tense and exciting as the coin on the that showed both Nemona and Armazon flipped and showed Nemona going first.
I can't back down now, Ash has to see his friends again, so I have to do my best out there but also show my growth as a trainer. I got to do this. Nemona thought to herself as Mara raises her arm and puts it down.
"You may begin!" Mara says as Nemona nods. Nemona thinks back to her conversation to earlier about Crocalor's singing behavior with Nando and what he suggested.
"If I had to assume, it maybe due a certain point in a Crocalor's life. Skeledirges often sing to sooth the souls of the dead and to celebrate life compared to most Ghost types and so Crocalor usually start to sing to mimic their evolution's singing potential." Nando notices pink aura coming out of Crocalor's mouth once more, "Your Crocalor may also be trying to learn Disarming Voice." Nando says as Nemona tilts her head.
"Disarming Voice?" Nemona asks.
"It's a Fairy type move that has the user sing a lovely melody imbued with fighting spirit that hits the opponent and bypasses accuracy. That's what I'm assuming Crocalor is learning, my Skeledirge knows Alluring Voice, another Fairy move, and it can be a good starting point if you want to train a bit?" Nando asks as Nemona nods and he looks to Skeledirge, "Use Alluring Voice." Nando says as Skeledirge launches a slow musical note in the air all while singing a lovely tone as Crocalor copies Skeledirge's singing.
If I want Crocalor to master it's singing skills, I sing along with Crocalor to help him out. Alright, let's try that. Nemona thinks to herself as she nods.
"Haxorus, use Dragon Claw and Crocalor, use Flamethrower on them!" Nemona says as she sings both nod and Haxorus creates blue claws and Crocalor breathes his flames on them creating fiery claws that Haxorus uses to rush at both of them. Armazon thinks of the same idea.
"We'll do the same! Raichu, Iron Tail and Rhyperior, use Ice Beam on the tail!" Armazon says as Alolan Raichu's tail glows a metallic hue and Rhyperior launches Ice Beam on it creating an icy tail, Raichu rushes at Haxorus and both clash their attacks and both trying to avoid the attacks. They clash once more with Haxorus finding an angle most acceptable of pushing upward upon Raichu's tail and quickly slashing at Raichu sending him back as Nemona sees an opportunity for a follow up.
"Now use Focus Blast!" Nemona says as Haxorus nods and launches a ball full of blue energy and launches it towards Rhyperior and Raichu.
"Focus Blast, infamous for being able to miss. Whoever named that move should be fined and jailed but what will Aria do next?" Akamu says as Nemona smirks and nods.
"Now Snarl Crocalor!" Nemona sings as Crocalor launches a ray of dark energy towards the Focus Blast which explodes and damages the Pokemon staggering and damaging them leaving the audience stunned.
"My, that's a unique way of using Focus Blast. If anyone in the audience has Focus Blast as part of their Pokemon's moves, write this stuff down." Akamu says as everyone does including Ash who thinks of his Scraggy's Focus Blast.
I think you've sparked an idea within me Nemona. Ash thinks to himself as the battle continued. Rhyperior and Alolan Raichu recover from their attacks and set their sights on improving themselves and getting a good score.
"Alright, we're not losing here. Rhyperior, aim your Rock Wrecker in the air!" Armazon says as Rhyperior nods and creates a large rock that Rhyperior launches in the air as Armazon follows that up. "Now Raichu! Use Psychic to break apart the rock into multiple pieces." Armazon says as Raichu nods and his eyes glow as he breaks apart the large rock into smaller rocks.
"Now let's create a dazzling show, Rhyperior, use Ice Beam on the rocks!" Armazon says as Rhyperior launches the beam of ice on the rocks creating a dazzling performance as ice bits dropped and Raichu swirls them around as Nemona grits her teeth.
How am I supposed to match that? Skull man here is creating a show with the Rock Wrecker/Psychic/Ice Beam combination while I'm out here trying to think of my plan. Nemona thinks to herself as Raichu lines up the floating rocks.
"Now launch them like a meteor shower onto Haxorus and Crocalor, Raichu!" Armazon says as Raichu nods and launches the ice rocks towards them as Nemona tried to think of a plan.
Dang! What am I going to do!? Think Banderas, think! When reading the rules earlier, they say that occasionally, you can at least use a simple combination like just one attack for both Pokemon that will score fewer points but not a disqualification. Alright, let's try! Nemona thought to herself as she looked to Crocalor and prepared her voice. "Crocalor, use Flamethrower on the rocks!" Nemona sung as Crocalor launches his fiery breath onto the rocks pushing them back from the Psychic attack before wearing Raichu's Psychic out and causing the ice rocks to melt to regular rocks and allowing them to drop allowing Nemona for another follow up.
"Use Aqua Tail Haxorus!" Nemona says as Haxorus nods and his tail flows with a strong current of water as he swipes at the rocks, hard enough for them to be launches towards both Raichu and Rhyperior damaging them both as Nemona knew it was all or nothing for this next attack and had a unique idea. "Crocalor, sing with your heart's contents, fire up your heating soul and sing to the hymn of the battle. Use Snarl and Haxorus, Focus Blast!" Nemona sings as Crocalor's eyes open with determination, his eyes glow a pinkish hue and starts to sing.
"Croc, Croooocalor!" Crocalor sings as Haxorus launches his Focus Blast, "CROCOLOR!" Crocalor sings out as he launches a pink musical note towards the Focus Blast which twirls around the ball before exploding releasing pink energy that also makes Crocalor's singing voice contained within the Disarming Voice more heard to the crowd as they look on in awe as Rhyperior and Raichu fall to the ground defeated. Nando/Nijusei looks on in approval over Crocalor mastering Disarming Voice.
All you needed was to sing at your heart's content and you've done it, can you keep that up when it evolves into Skeledirge and it can really sing from its soul one day? Nando thinks to himself as Mara checks on the Pokemon and nods.
"Armazon's Pokemon are unable to battle! But it's not over yet, let us see the scores and see what happens next!" Mara says as the judges put down their scores. For Armazon, his scores 81, 75, 85, 84 making his score 325 while Nemona grits her teeth hoping she doesn't fall behind Armazon as her numbers are displayed as 85, 87, 90 and 100 making her score 362 which makes Nemona smile.
"I must say, both competitors and the way they use their moves surprised me especially with that icy meteor shower with Raichu breaking apart that rock with Psychic to create smaller rocks and Rhyperior using Ice Beam to freeze the rocks was also a nice touch as it provided an icy show." Akamu says as Myers nodded.
"Indeed, but I like the part where Focus Blast didn't miss but instead, Aria used that opportunity to make it explode with Snarl resulting in an explosive impact!" Myers says with soul in his voice, he notices May having fire in her eyes, a sense of excitement occurring. "Miss May, are you ok-"
"Are you kidding me! Fiery claws!? That sounds so cool! You have to teach me your secrets when this is all over!" May says with fire in her voice as the crowd cheers and Serena chuckled.
"Now, now, let's temper down. But for the record, I agree, I think what got me the most was Crocalor learning Disarming Voice and mixing it with Haxorus's Swift to make for a symphonic melody was simply gorgeous and Crocalor's voice was also like a melody." Serena says as the crowd murmurs on as Nemona shakes Armazon's hands and congratulate their Pokemon before Mara walks towards the microphone.
"Thank you to Aria and Armazon for their lovely battle. Next up will be Fantasma and Miragem then we will take a break and finish the other rounds today and finish the rest tomorrow." Mara says as Max got nervous as Ash looked to him.
"Here I go, I never really battled fully before, will I be able to do it?" Max says nervously as Ash smiles underneath the LED mask.
"Of course you will, you just got to be brave and have fun, let loose." Ash says as Max nods and heads onto the stage with a female opponent wearing a Sock (Sock and Buskin not a literal sock) mask across from Max who breathes in and out as he sends out Marshtomp and Togekiss (who had a tag) while Sock released her Clefable and Alolan Sandshrew (who also had a tag) who were ready for battle. The coin is shown on screen showing both opponents and flips to show Sock going first as Mara looked to them both and nodded.
"You may begin!" Mara says as Sock nods and calls out her first attack.
"Alright Sandshrew, use Rapid Spin and Clefable, use Flamethrower to surround Sandshrew's Rapid Spin!" Sock says as Sandshrew nods and rolls in a ball and spins quickly as Flamethrower surrounded the Pokemon like a tornado impressing the audience.
"Alolan Sandshrew's not going down despite its major Fire weakness, could it be that spinning helps this Pokemon slow the weaknesses or negate them?" Serena asks as Sandshrew spins towards Togekiss and Marshtomp as Max focuses.
"Right, Togekiss, use Tri Attack and Marshtomp, use your Rock Slide to hit through the Tri Attack!" Max says as both nod and Togekiss creates 3 orbs of fire, electricity and ice and Marshtomp jumps high in the and releases a flurry of stones that go through the Tri Attack covering them with flames, electricity and ice as they attempt to land on Sandshrew but dodges them.
Too fast! Can't land a good hit on them! What to do? What to do? Maybe if I can't hit them directly, we can send them flying. Max thought to himself as he nodded, "Alright Marshtomp, land your last Rock Slide rock in front of Togekiss!" Max says as Marshtomp nods and launches the last rock through a fire orb of Tri Attack and since it was unexpected, Sandshrew didn't have time to dodge as he rolls into the air leaving him open for a hit.
Now let's use those rocks to our advantage! Max thought to himself, "Now use Ice Punch to send him back down!" Max says as Marshtomp jumps in the air and with his right hand freezing over, he punches the rolling Sandshrew back down onto the rock that sends Sandshrew projecting off of the rock and into Clefable damaging both as Max follows this up.
"Now use Water Pledge Marshtomp!" Max says as Marshtomp stomps onto the ground which created holes and ripples that were launched in the direction of the opponents, "Now use Magical Fire in conjunction with Water Pledge Togekiss!" Max says a bit more confidently as Togekiss launches flames into the ground that go in Water Pledge's direction. 3 pillars of Water Pledge come out of the ground alongside that is Magical Fire swirling around the 3 Water Pledge pillars and damaging both Clefable and Sandshrew to the point of knocking them out which Mara checks and confirms much to everyone's surprise.
"And that was a quick one folks, only 2 minutes and that fight is as done as an apple pie!" Myers says.
"That would be 40 minutes for a pie Myers." Serena says.
"Close enough." Myers says as they work on their scores. Sock's score was displayed as 75, 70, 80, 80 making Sock's score 305 while Max's was displayed as 70, 75, 80, 85 making his score 310, a close call as Max wins.
"If the match wasn't so short, I would've scored more points to both competitors but from what I saw, Fantasma's Water Pledge and Magical Fire combination was a sight to behold. It's like a semi-geyser erupting from the ground." Myers says as May nods.
"I agree that combination was certainly interesting, but I was also surprised by Sock's use of that Rapid Spin, Flamethrower combination especially since Alolan Sandshrew is majorly weak to Fire moves is certainly impressive. I may not be a scientist but does spinning reduce the damage of burns?" May asks as Akamu shrugs.
"Whatever the case maybe, possibly Pokemon magic or anything similar, I congratulate Fantasma for his win." Akamu says as Max and Sock shake on it which caused both Nemona and Max a realization.
If I won that match, that means that I'll have to face Max in the next round. Max is one of Ash's companions and yet I have to fight him so that one of us makes it to the semi-finals, will it fly well? Nemona thought to herself worryingly as Haruko steps onto the stage.
"Thank you, thank you. With that match over, we shall take a 30 minute break and when we come back, we will have Diadem and Buskin fight in the next match." Haruko says as everyone splinters off to do their own thing.
We see Ash, Max, Nemona and Nando were in a room discussing with each other about the matches that have taken place thus far and what's going on in their journeys.
"I see, so you're not on a Gym Challenge in this Region, but you are a mentor to Nemona who is taking on the Gym Challenge." Nando says to Ash as he nods.
"Yep, I figured that I've surpassed Gyms in terms of challenge so I'm facing the Elite Four. So far, I've defeated one while Nemona has beaten 2 thus far." Ash says as Nando and Max looked fascinated towards their stories.
"Interesting, Ash must be a pretty good teacher if he's able to help you thus far." Max asks as Nemona lightly blushes and chuckles.
"Of course, he's been there to guide me along the way, point out my flaws and help me iron them out to improve on myself. I failed one Gym, but I want to not fail again and improve on myself." Nemona says with confidence as she pets Pawmo and Max, Ash and Nando smile towards her confidence. Max then smirks on his own and pushes up on his glasses.
"You sound almost like Ash when he was taking on the Hoenn Gym Challenge, he was facing Brawly when-" Max didn't finish as Ash remembered his loss to Brawly and his immaturity afterwards as he blushes.
"C'mon, do we really need to mention that right now." Ash asks as Max shrugs with his smirk.
"C'mon, it will be great for your Biography, I can write it you know." Max says as Ash chases Max as Nando chuckled.
"My, if you're becoming a teacher to Nemona, I could see you becoming a teacher for other students too. Have you ever thought about that? Is that the Treasure your aiming for here in Paldea?" Nando asks as Ash stands there stunned as Pikachu looked to him.
"I mean... I've earned my title as Pokemon Master, what would be my Treasure?" Ash asks himself as he frowns.
We see May and Serena out for lunch at a cafe, but Serena appeared distracted by something similar to before.
I feel bad for disqualifying that Kaito fellow, he seemed pretty eager, but the rules were rules. It's just something about that Kaito, distracts me, he and his Pikachu felt familiar. Serena thinks to herself looking towards the oceanside. May (dressed in her ORAS outfit) waves her hand in front of Serena concerned as Serena snaps out of it.
"Serena? Are you ok?" May asks as Serena gives a soft smile and nods.
"Yes, I'm alright now." Serena says to May as May gives a knowing smile.
"Thinking about that Kaito fella huh? That feeling of familiarity too." May says as Serena was surprised.
"You too?" Serena asks as May nods.
"Yeah, when I saw Kaito, he gave a feeling of familiarity when he and his Pikachu walked onto the stage and yet, I'm not sure why." May says as she looked to the ocean, "I just wish he showed more because I would love to see more of Kaito." May says as they kept talking.
Still, I hope Ash comes to Levincia, I want to show him out much I've improved on myself. Serena and May thought to themselves.
We return to the arena where we see Kieran stretching as man in a Buskin mask walks onto the stage as Kieran gets nervous but tries to stay brave.
Ok Kieran Carter Tachibana, focus! This isn't a battle so I can relax but I know Ash could be in this crowd, I don't want to disappoint him and make sure people like me. I can't be overshadowed by Carmine, think happy thoughts and encouraging words. Kieran thinks to himself as he thinks about his Pokemon, Ash's coolness, churros, movies and lots of Penny.
"You can do it, Kieran."
"How are you today?"
"You're up next? I hope you do your best!" Kieran blushes towards those words that Penny said to him.
Dang it! I'm supposed to be thinking about battling, not cheesy 2000's romance movie lines! Kieran thought to himself as he sends out his Gliscor (evolving from his Gligar from last time) and a Nidoking (which had a tag on it) while Buskin sends out his Dudunsparce and Espathra (which had a tag on it). A coin on the screen appears showing both competitors and the coin flips showing Buskin going first as Kieran focuses and Mara looked to the two trainers.
"Are you both ready?" Mara asks as Kieran and Buskin nods.
"You may begin!" Mara says as Buskin gets right into the action.
"Espathra, use Flash Cannon and Dudunsparce, rush in with Dragon Rush!" Buskin says as they nod and Espathra launches a beam of metallic gray light and Dudunsparce rushes in forming a blue dragon that surrounds it's body and rushes through it making the blue dragon more of a gray dragon that glows as he rushes towards Gliscor and Nidoking.
"It's like an actual Dragon type going through and soaring through the air folks! Can Diadem match to that level!?" Myers asks as Kieran grits his teeth.
"Focus, focus! Nidoking, Fire Blast and Gliscor, use X-Scissor into the Fire Blast!" Kieran says as Nidoking launches a fiery blast as Gliscor flies down and crosses his arms creating an X as he interacts with the Fire Blast. "Spin around in that X-Scissor-Fire Blast combo to make it a bit stylish!" Kieran says as Gliscor nods and spins around causing the fire from Fire Blast to swirl around Gliscor as he dives in creating a swirling fiery veil that catches the audiences attention.
"And indeed, he does! Gliscor is now in a fiery veil rushing towards Dudunsparce. Who will come out on top, a fiery Gliscor or a metallic Dudunsparce!?" Myers asks as both Pokemon clash together in a visual spectacle to those who were watching from the crowd. Dudunsparce tries to push through but Gliscor wasn't giving in making Kieran, who was initially nervous feel a bit more confident.
"If your not giving up, then I won't either. Gliscor, use your tail to push yourself up!" Kieran says as Gliscor nodded and while in the X-Scissor/Fire Blast combo, Gliscor used his tail and gave himself a little boost pushing him to send Dudunsparce upwards and flying as Kieran follows this up. "Now use Scale Shot Gliscor and Nidoking, use Blizzard!" Kieran says as Nidoking nods and launches a flurry of snow from his mouth as Gliscor launches a series of scales that were covered by ice with the wind of the Blizzard carrying it and striking at both Espathra and Dunsparce damaging them.
"Alright!" Kieran says as the opposing Pokemon get up and the crowd were left impressed, but Kieran wasn't done yet. "Nidoking, use Drill Run and Gliscor, use Dark Pulse onto the Drill Run!" Kieran says as Nidoking's horn starts to spin quickly and growing larger as Gliscor launched a dark beam onto the Drill Run which spun around creating a dark drill and Nidoking runs towards the opponents who get up and weren't backing down.
"Let's blind'em with Dazzling Gleam Espathra!" Buskin says as Espathra's body glows and releases a dazzling light that blinds and damages Nidoking causing him to trip as Buskin follows this up, "Now use Ice Spinner Dudunsparce!" Buskin says as Dudunsparce's tail freezes up and he jumps in the air allowing his tail to spin like a drill and create an icy tornado as he lands on the ground and spins on the ground like a top hitting Nidoking and sending him flying towards Gliscor and damaging them.
"Nice going you two!" Buskin says as Gliscor and Nidoking get up gritting their teeth as Kieran felt nervous.
Calm yourself man, I can't give in now!" Kieran thought to himself as he shook.
"Could this be the end folks? Can Diadem get a second chance at redemption, or will he stop at the final step!?" Myers asks as Buskin follows this up.
"Let's finish things, Espathra, use Lumina Crash and Dudunsparce, use Hyper Drill with that Lumina Crash!" Buskin says as Espathra glows once more and launches a sparkling prism of purple energy and launches it in the air and Dudunsparce jumps in the air and his tail spins like a drill as he puts his tail into the Lumina Crash creating a dazzling drill of white energy that came down like a missile in the sky.
This could be it. No it can't be! Kieran thought to himself as he looked to the ground and nodded, "Gliscor, Dig!" Kieran says as Gliscor nodded and dug into the ground underneath Dudunsparce's shadow as Buskin gasps as Dudunsparce gets stuck in the hole and couldn't get out.
"Dudunsparce! Get out of there!" Buskin says as Kieran smiles confidently as Gliscor pops out of another hole.
"Well let's give you a hand, Focus Blast Nidoking and Gliscor, X-Scissor!" Kieran says as Nidoking launches a blue ball of energy that he launches in the air for Gliscor to rush into it with X-Scissor as he strikes Dudunsparce and sends him flying towards Espathra knocking both of them out. The crowd cheers on impressed as Mara walks over to confirm they were knocked out and nods.
"And indeed, he got back up! But can the scores give the story an ending?" Akamu asks as they work on the scores. With Buskin, he receives a score of 85, 75, 85 and 85 making his scores 330 while Kieran's were very close with him receiving 85, 80, 85, 85 making his score 335 making him the winner.
"And in a close call, Diadem is the winner by 5 points more. Tell me Akamu, why the 5-point increase?" Serena asks as Akamu shrugs.
"What influenced me was both of their first combo attacks. That Dragon Rush/Flash Cannon combo intrigued me but I liked how Diadem made use of his Gliscor's spinning as it helps create something visual towards the casual watcher and it also helps reduce the damage of the move by spinning quickly." Akamu says leaving Myers, Serena and May intrigued.
"I never thought of it that way, I guess it makes since when using a physical move combined with something like Fire or Ice, they can be painful types when in close contact with such heat. I'm not sure of the science behind it but I guess that type of spinning does help reduce that damage." May says intrigued as the two competitors shook on it.
Haruko walks onto the stage enjoying her latte.
"Have you guys been to this new coffeeshop down the street? Has great coffee." Haruko drinks her latte before addressing the crowd, "Next we will see Nijusei against Ishigaki for this match. Who will come out on top next?" Haruko asks as Penny walks onto the stage nervous as Kieran (who's seen what Shes looked like underneath the mask) cheers her on in his head. A woman wearing an Ancient Greek mask walks onto the stage who was stoic and quiet but focused presumably as the mask covered her face.
"Now then, Riolu, Reuniclus, come on out!" Ishigaki says sending out the Pokemon revealing Riolu (who had a tag) and Reuniclus ready for a fight. Penny nods and sends out Espeon and Muk (who had a tag).
I may not know where Ash and Nemona are right now in this tournament and maybe I don't have much interest in battling, but I want to give it my all for Ash. I want to show how much I've grown stronger as a person and trainer, ready for more Team Star! Penny thinks to herself as a coin appears on the screen with both Nijusei and Ishigaki's masks and flips to show Ishigaki going first as the match begins.
"Reuniclus, use Expanding Force to create steps for Riolu to run on! Riolu, prepare a Vacuum Wave." Ishigaki says as Reuniclus's eyes glow creating Psychic pillars from the ground allowing Riolu to hop on each of them happily as an energy was forming into Riolu's right hand. Riolu jumped really high in the air as Ishigaki follows this up, "Now for an Energy Ball towards Riolu's direction!" Ishigaki says as Reuniclus create a green ball of energy that she launches towards Riolu as Penny focuses.
"Alright Muk, use Sludge Bomb and Espeon, use Psychic to control and expand it!" Penny says as Muk launches a ball of sludge that Espeon controls with her psychic abilities expanding it as Riolu launches the Vacuum Wave into the Energy Ball, it goes through creating a green swoosh that lands on the expanded Sludge Bomb which explodes but the shield remains up as Riolu was left falling in the air.
"Now Espeon, use that Sludge Bomb to knock away Riolu!" Penny says as Espeon nods and with her Psychic, she forms it into a whip, hitting Riolu and sending him towards Reuniclus who catches him in her arms. The Sludge Bomb wall dissipates as Riolu and gets back up and ready to fight. As the fight goes on, Nemona and Pawmo sat amongst the crowd as Pawmo shifts a bit feeling uncomfortable as Nemona notices.
"What's wrong buddy? Need to go?" Nemona asks as Pawmo nods and so she gets up with Pawmo.
We see Nemona come out of the bathroom ready to finish watching the match when she passes by Gaiter, the woman who won her match against Ash/Kaito who seemed friendly enough.
"My that was some great battling out there Aria." Gaiter says genuinely though her mask didn't show her expression offering her hand, Nemona smiles shaking Gaiter's hand.
"Thank you, it's rare to hear such words outside my friends and family." Nemona says.
"It's a shame about Ash's loss though, wouldn't want people knowing he's here and that he lost." Gaiter says as Nemona and Pawmo froze up in fear but remembering her late mother's advice on situations like this, she nervously laughed.
"Hahaha, Ash? The Ash Ketchum? Champion of different places around the world in this city, participating in this here tournament. That's a good joke there." Nemona says nervously as Gaiter also chuckled.
"Yeah, I just wanted to get a reaction out of somebody like a student, journalist or a daughter of a late Champion-ranked trainer and a business tycoon." Gaiter says nonchalantly as Nemona froze up once more, "Or that they're in front of me right now." Gaiter says as Nemona's blood runs cold.
"W-W-W-What are you getting at? Just who are you?" Nemona says as Gaiter smirks underneath her mask showing her badge for the Levincia Press revealing her name as Connie.
"Just a journalist who makes a quick buck out of scandal stories and Champion slip-ups, to expose the weaknesses of Champions and big wigs alike and earn profit off of their embarrassments." Connie says as Nemona's frown turned into an angry scowl.
"And what makes you think you can do that sort of thing!? I'm reporting you for what you're doing, Pawmo let's go!" Nemona says as Connie snickers.
"Are you sure? I could just leak it now so that people can swarm Ash and with the info of his loss here and in Mirage Town against the weaker Rika, the people will eat it up." Connie says as Nemona froze up, "Unless you beat me in battle and score higher than me, then I'll reconsider." Connie says as she walks away as Nemona grits her teeth.
"You monster." Nemona says.
"Actually, my last name is Muenster, but you were close." Connie says with a grin under her mask as Nemona looked on in determination.
"I bet you care more about being popular compared to the Champions, don't ya?" Nemona says as Connie froze up almost seemingly familiar with that question.
"...Have fun." Connie says walking away from Nemona leaving Nemona to grit her teeth.
Dang it! Why must you- stay calm Nemona, I just got to get through this, I don't want Ash to reveal himself out of worry, so I'll work hard to take her down. Nemona thinks to herself as she walks away. A masked Jessie, James and Meowth look on from the corner.
"The nerve of that girl, using the twerp's fame to ruin his life. That's our job!" Jessie says as James and Meowth look to her with a deadpan expression, "What it's true! No matter, even if the twerp does thwart our plans often, he doesn't deserve to have his title ruined with something he earned fair and square!" Jessie says.
"Right!" James and Meowth say as Jessie nods.
"Good, now go see what her role is at Levincia Press! We're not ruining our Champion twerp's reputation here!" Jessie says as Meowth and James nods and scatter off as she looked towards the doors that led to the stage and audience.
Consider this as thanks for dealing with us these past couple years twerp. Jessie thinks to herself.
We see that Penny has won her match against Ishigaki with Espeon using a Dazzling Gleam and Dark Pulse combo, where the Dark Pulse surrounded the Dazzling Gleam and used it to attack Riolu and Reuniclus. Penny gets her scores of 85, 80, 85 and 90 making her score 340 while Ishigaki scores 85, 80, 80 and 80 making her score 325 as the judges look on astonished.
"That finale was absolutely gorgeous. Nijusei's Dazzling Gleam and Dark Pulse combo was extraordinary! Darkness and light usually opposites, come together in a glorious reconciliation!" Myers says as Akamu sighs.
"Have you been watching that 'livro da luz e das trevas' film Myers?" Akamu asks as Myers nervously looks away.
"Hahahaha, have you seen any movies lately May? Serena?" Myers says trying to avoid Akamu's question.
"I did see that one new Super Pikachu movie, Super Pikachu vs the Fruitful Grenadiers. I actually know the director one time from my journey a long while ago." Serena says as May got curious.
"Is that the one where a heroic Pikachu forms a superhero team and starts a cinematic universe" May asks as Serena shakes her head.
"No different studio." Serena responds as Penny and Ishigaki shake hands.
We get to see the remaining 3 matches go by without a hitch as we see Nando and his Skeledirge and Ribombee (which has a tag) facing off against Victoria and her Poliwrath and tagged Ledian as Nando finishes the opponent's Poliwrath and Ledian with ease.
"Ribombee, use Moonblast and Skeledirge, Torch Song." Nando says softly with his accent as Ribombee launches a large ball of blue and pink energy and Skeledirge releases a fiery bird from his mouth that goes through the Moonblast creating a visual delight as the bird's fiery orange coloring absorbs the Moonblast's color becoming blue and attacks both opposing Pokemon who faints upon that hit. The crowd cheers delightfully including Nemona's Crocalor who was watching in delight over Nando's Skeledirge and the scores gave him a 90, 95, 95 and a 100 making his score 380 while Victoria receives a score of 85, 80, 85 and 90 making her score 340 as both Nando and Victoria shake on it.
Jessie gets her round with similarly no issues as her Yanmega and a tagged Empoleon face against Fortaleza's Leafeon and tagged Electrode.
"Now then Empoleon, use Weather Ball and Yanmega, use Air Cutter!" Jessie says as Empoleon launches a large white ball towards the opponents and Yanmega launches 2 aerial slices that cut up the Weather Ball which explodes hitting both Pokemon and knocking them out. Jessie scores 80, 80, 85 and 85 making her score 330 while her opponent scores 75, 75, 80 and 80 making Fortaleza's score 310.
Lastly were Eliza's Female tagged Pyroar and Quagsire against Cidade's tagged Monferno and Forretress with Pyroar and Quagsire's Solar Beam and Hydro Pump swirling combo finishing the job with a score of 85, 90, 90, 90 totaling 355 against Cidade's 85, 85, 80, 75 totaling 325 finishing off the first round. Haruko comes onto the stage with a smirk and claps.
"That was a wonderful day folks, we'll have to cut things off until tomorrow but when we get back, we will have some heartstopping action and beautiful performances from our trainers so we will see you all tomorrow!" Haruko says as everyone departs but Nemona is left with an uneasy feeling as Connie watches on with her making a shush expression as Nemona looked to Ash out of concern.
Later after dinner, we see Pawmo, Crocalor and Teddiursa taking care of the egg while Gimmighoul lied on the bed for a nap, Nemona looking outside her hotel window to see the ocean and the evening sun but looks below to see disguised Ash training with Quaxwell and Leavanny having a time of their lives while Pikachu and Koraidon watched from the sides.
"Leavanny, use Leaf Blade and Quaxwell, Liquidation!" Ash says as Leavanny's arms glow a green hue while water forms around Quaxwell's legs, they rush in clashing attacks, avoiding each other's attacks until Quaxwell found an opening and managed to slip Leavanny. "Use your String Shot, quickly!" Ash says as Leavanny launches some string out of his mouth and lands on Quaxwell's leg as Leavanny pulled his head back as he falls allowing Quaxwell to trip also falling to the ground. Nemona looks on and smiles towards them having fun but then frowns feeling worried about where Connie was and the moment she gets more pictures of Ash; she clenches her fist and sighs.
"Look at you Ash, having fun, training, so carefree. You always work so hard to protect us and you help me train for things to come as a trainer and what do I give in return? Nothing. You protected us time and time again so let me repay the favor." Nemona says as she walks off with Pawmo following her. She reaches the battlefield to see Ash still training as he looks to Nemona.
"Hey Nemona, here to practice towards tomorrow?" Ash asks as Nemona nods.
"Kind of, listen Ash. Could you do me a favor and... please battle me." Nemona asks as Ash got curious.
"To get stronger to face Iono?" Ash asks.
"Well that but... I want to see how much stronger I've gotten ever since you arrived. To see how much I've improved on myself after all that time." Nemona says with determination growing like an inner flame sparking as Ash can see this determination and smirks.
"Alright, Pikachu!" Ash yells out to Pikachu who runs to him prepared to battle as Nemona smiles and gets into position with Pawmo ready for battle.
"Don't hold anything back!" Nemona says with fired up determination as Ash nods.
"Trust me, I won't. Use Quick Attack!" Ash says as Pikachu rushes at Pawmo with quick speed as Nemona focuses.
"Mach Punch!" Nemona says as Pawmo winds up his fist and launches himself like a jet towards Pikachu clashing with one another as both Pokemon smirked, both Pokemon hop back as Nemona follows it up quickly. "Dig, let's go!" Nemona says as Pawmo digs straight down as Pikachu focuses.
"Stay focused Pikachu and sense it's movements!" Ash says as Pikachu nods and stays silent to listen to the sounds that were underground and eventually, Pawmo pops out from behind ready to strike. "Iron Tail!" Ash says as Pikachu's tail glow a metallic hue but before he could strike, Nemona smirked.
"Now dig back down!" Nemona says as Pawmo digs down quickly avoiding the attack, but Pikachu remained focused like before, searching left and right for any signs of Pawmo as Pawmo digs back up from afar. "Bite, let's go!" Nemona says as Pawmo rushes in at Pikachu.
"Shouldn't have yelled out where you were at, Electro Web!" Ash yells out as Pikachu launches an electrical web and entraps Pawmo who tries to get out, "Now Iron Tail!" Ash says as Pikachu slams his tail onto Pawmo sending him flying and freeing him.
"You alright Pawmo?" Nemona asks as Pamwo nods.
"Paw!" Pawmo says as Nemona nods.
"Alright, let's kick it up a nudge, use Discharge!" Nemona says as Pawmo nods and charges himself up with electricity launching 4 electrical bolts towards Pikachu.
"Thunderbolt!" Ash says as Pikachu launches his own electrical beam towards the Discharge as they collide creating a huge boom of dust, obscuring the battlefield with Nemona seeing her chance.
"Now's our chance, use Bite!" Nemona says as Pawmo nods, but his body starts to glow a pinkish hue which Nemona notices as Pawmo rushes in through the smoke, "That's Play Rough, you learned a new move!" Nemona said happily as Pawmo rushes in and aims towards Pikachu who was caught off guard as Pawmo strikes multiple times at Pikachu as Pikachu stumbles back.
"Dig!" Nemona says as Pawmo jumps back and digs while Pikachu was recovering from the Play Rough before shaking it off and trying to focus.
"Pikachu, prepare an Iron Tail." Ash says as Pikachu nods and his tail metallizes as Pawmo pops out from behind ready to strike, "Pikachu-" Ash didn't finish as Pawmo dug back down.
"You'll have to be quicker than that." Nemona says with a smirk as Ash smiles calmly.
"Who says we're aiming towards Pawmo. Slam your tail onto the ground!" Ash says as Pikachu does slamming his tail hard into the ground creating a loud vibration noise and leaving Nemona confused.
"What was your-" Nemona didn't finish as she sees Pawmo dig back up dazed and confused from that loud slam whose noise reached underground, confusing the underground Pawmo as Nemona realizes this too late. "Pawmo-"
"Quick Attack!" Ash says as Pikachu rushes in and tackles Pawmo sending him flying as he recovers, Ash grabs his Tera Orb and so does Nemona.
"I'd say we finish this." Nemona says confidently.
"Couldn't agree more." Ash says as they both throw their Tera Orbs towards their Pokemon who Terastalize with Pikachu turning into the unknown Tera Type like before and Pawmo Terastalizing into a Fighting type.
"Pawmo, Mach Punch let's go!" Nemona says Pawmo winds up his punch and the Tera Hat glows as he launches himself towards Pikachu who readies himself.
So with this Tera Type new and in research, I have to make sure I'm using this new Tera Type right even if it only provides a one-time boost. Ash thinks to himself as he nods, "Use Electro Web!" Ash says as Pikachu nods and his Tera Hat glows as he launches the web towards Pawmo.
"Dig!" Nemona says as Pawmo stops his punch and digs down avoiding the web attack as Pikachu looks left and right.
"Jump!" Ash says as Pikachu nods and prepares to jump but Nemona smirked.
"No you don't! Grab his tail!" Nemona says as Pawmo rushes up as Pikachu was jumping and grabbed his tail.
"What the-" Ash didn't finish as Nemona chimed in.
"Mach Punch!" Nemona says as Pawmo rushes out of the ground preparing to punch Pikachu as he lands a punch onto Pikachu's stomach and sends him flying in the air.
"Pikachu!" Ash says as he looks to the holes that Pawmo has made and gets an idea. "Pikachu, use Thunderbolt against one of the holes!" Ash says as Pikachu nods and launches a powerful Thunderbolt boosted by the ? Tera Type as Nemona realizes this too late and the Thunderbolt goes into the hole and is directed towards Pawmo who's sent flying in the air.
"Pawmo!" Nemona yells out as Ash smirks as Pikachu lands back onto the ground.
"Iron Tail!" Ash says as Pikachu rushes towards a falling Pawmo.
"Play Rough!" Nemona says as Pawmo lands back down and rushes at Pikachu clashing with one another as Pawmo tried to push through the attack but couldn't as he was sent flying towards Pawmo, knocking him out. "Pawmo!" Nemona says as she walks to him as Ash and Pikachu walk over to Pawmo and Nemona with Ash handing Pawmo a Sitrus Berry as he happily enjoys it and Nemona looks to her friend as he gave a bright smile.
"You were excellent Nemona." Ash says as Nemona was surprised.
"But I didn't win." Nemona says as Ash shakes his head.
"Just because you didn't win, doesn't deter your skills. From what I saw, I saw you fight to your fullest extent, showed what new strategies you used for battle and synchronized with Pawmo. That I think shows how much you're improving each day as a trainer." Ash says with a smile as Nemona and Pawmo looked to each other in happiness.
"You think so?" Nemona says as Ash nods.
"Of course! I see you as a great Champion-ranked Trainer in the future through further battles but for now, I'd say you're one of the bests!" Ash says as Nemona's eyes sparkle with joy.
"You hear that Pawmo, we're getting somewhere." Nemona says with a smile looking back on her journey thus far. "You know to think, I started off as just a stubborn battler. Not thinking straight, always rushing things through and not thinking of what to do during battles. I must've been a nuisance to you huh?" Nemona says with a sad laugh as Ash shook his head.
"No, not at all! You're not a nuisance, admittedly, I felt like that during my journeys. I was so stubborn, always rushing into things without thinking and sometimes not focus on battles without plans and I still feel like that today. But I can tell how much you've changed during your journey and training, your being focused, you're training well, and you've gotten stronger. I feel your battle with Brassius is the result of those changes, thinking, planning and not giving in. So no, you're not a nuisance, your truly something special and a great friend." Ash says with a smile as Nemona teared up slightly.
"Ash..." Nemona says wiping her tears away before getting up with Pawmo, "Thank you..." Nemona says with a soft smile.
"Anything." Ash says as Nemona then smirks.
"Just for your positivity, I demand 100 battles!" Nemona says as Ash and Pikachu were shocked.
"100!? That's a bit too much for a night Nemona!" Ash says panicking as Nemona laughed. In the distance from a corner, Serena watched on stopping herself from going to see Ash as she gave a soft smile towards Ash's happy spirit and blushed.
Ash... hmm, never change Ash, never change. I'll see you soon. Serena thinks to herself as she walks away with a satisfied smile.
The next day.
The Levincia competition continued on as we see Carmine and Connie commence, the first match of round 2 with Carmine using her Metang and tagged Gothorita against Connie's tagged Ninetales and Vikavolt.
"Gothorita, use Dark Pulse and Metang, use Gyro Ball!" Carmine says as Metang spins quickly while Dark Pulse surrounded the Pokemon and rushed towards Ninetales and Vikavolt as Connie focuses.
"Ninetales, Inferno and Vikavolt, Wild Charge!" Connie says as Vikavolt covers itself in electricity and rushes at Metang while fire surrounds Vikavolt as both Pokemon clash with one another and Vikavolt pushes Metang back with his mandibles using the Gyro Ball to Vikavolt's advantage by launching Metang towards Gothorita and knocking them out. Mara walks over and confirms their defeat as the judges make their final scores with Carmine scoring 75, 80, 85 and 85 making her score 325 while Connie scores 85, 85, 85 and 90 making her score 345 making Connie the winner.
Nemona gritted her teeth underneath her mask sickened by Connie's win.
That stalker thinks she can win like that, I just want to reveal the truth but if I do, she could ruin Ash's reputation. I got to be patient. Nemona thinks to herself as Carmine shakes Connie's hand and Carmine looked to her Pokemon.
"Metang..." Metang said disappointingly as Carmine pats Metang on the head and gave them a soft smile.
"You did your best, plus, it's good to have a break once in a while when not battling." Carmine says as Gothorita hugs her leg not wanting to let go.
"Gotho!" Gothorita says as Carmine also pats her.
"You were also amazing." Carmine says as they walk off and Haruko walks onto the stage.
"What a way to start the day, thrilling and chilling... no wait that's horror related. You get what I mean, and we'll have plenty more where that came from but for now, let us move on to our next match of this round. We have Aria vs Phantasma in this thrilling match!" Haruko says as both Nemona and Max freeze up, realizing they have to face each other.
So I am fighting Max next. I know he's a good friend of Ash so, should I? Nemona says full of doubt as she and Max get onto the stage ready for battle as they both felt reluctant but knew they had to battle as Nemona grabbed her Pokeball and Jet Ball and breathed in.
"Crocalor, Gimmighoul, come on out!" Nemona says as she throws her Pokeballs and releases Crocalor and Gimmighoul who were ready for battle as Max did the same.
"Helioptile, Vibrava, let's go!" Max says as he sends them out ready for battle. Both trainer's look to each other ready for a major battle to come so what will happen next? Find out next time on Pokemon SVTA!
TBC
I promise things after that chapter will get interesting and we will be close to the finale of the 'first season' and I have some major things planned for those episodes and I'll be planning the next 'season' which will be the Kitakami Arc which I am in the midst of planning of and I'll I can say is that it might be 7-10 episodes of that arc and Team Ash and Kieran and Carmine will get some development in that arc.
Until then, hasta la vistar!