Ash's Team
Styx - Hydreigon
Hemlock - Morgrem
Bane - Zoroark
Mirae - Mytheon
Sagitta - Togekiss
Libra - Hakamo-o
Castor - Krokorok
Polaris - Greninja
Artemis - Houndoom
Orion - Alolan Ninetales
Ladon - Appletun
Wisteria - Galarian Ponyta
At Oak's
Nettle - Naganadel
"Look who's back."
The baritone words had Ash turning away from the front desk, eyes landing on 'The Lightning Unovan' in all his towering glory. The Vermilion City Gym Leader was staring down at Ash from over his black sunglasses, a hard look in his blue eyes. Baggy cargo pants tucked into practical combat boots and an olive green tank top with silver army tags really gave him The Look.
"Is Blitzle okay?"
Lt. Surge seemed somewhat taken aback before his icy eyes softened somewhat.
"Blitz is all good, bounced back quick. I expected the same from you, didn't realize I scared you so bad it took months for you to give it another shot!"
Ash rolled his eyes, knowing the Gym Leader was both trying to get under his skin as well as ask where he'd been.
"I've been in Alola, Unova, Kalos, and Galar for the past nine months."
Grinning widely with analytical eyes, Lt. Surge looked over Ash's shoulder. "Visquez, please tell me I don't have any battles for the next couple hours!"
The white haired trainer behind the counter grinned and shook their head. Surge hissed a quiet "yes" beneath his breath before smirking at Ash.
"Ready for that rematch?"
Ash's own grin bared his sharp teeth in response.
It was quick work getting set up on the dirt field, each in their trainer box and the League-sanctioned Mr. Mime setting up the protective barriers. The same referee from last time, Liz if he remembered correctly, took her place and raised her hands.
"This is an official Gym Battle of Vermilion Gym between Challenger Ashton Ketchum of Pallet Town and Electric Master Lieutenant Raymond Surge. This will be a 3 on 3 battle, and a victor will be declared when all Pokémon on one side are unable to battle or forfeited. Substitutions are allowed for the Challenger only. Gym Leader Surge will release first."
The Gym Leader smirked as he tossed a Quick ball up and down in his hand. "Heh, let's try this again. Go, Blitz!"
It wasn't until the Unovan Electric type landed on the field, raring to go, that Ash realized he had been harboring worry for the Pokémon. Finally, he let a fierce smirk cross his face as he tossed an Ultra ball, releasing his newest teammate.
Wisteria landed on the field with a bold whinny, her forehooves stomping up dirt. She was practically shaking with impatience to start.
"Ha! You've got a fiery one, there!" Ash merely shared a nod with his teammate as the ref counted down.
"3-2-1 Battle Begin!"
"Disperse, Charge!"
"Confusion!" Ash was at a disadvantage here. He was using a new catch that didn't have a lot of diversity to her moveset quite yet. He'd have to be extremely creative during this battle. It didn't help that he had no idea what Surge was ordering Blitzle to do.
An odd current exploded out from the Electric type, but the second call was disrupted by the mental attack. Blitzle flinched, eyes squinting with the minor headache it was no doubt experiencing.
This gave Wisteria time to close the distance, her burgeoning Psychic skill maximizing her speed. She landed a particularly painful Stomp that impacted audibly against Blitzle's ankle. However even as the Pokémon cried out and Wisteria darted away, Surge smirked.
Blitzle shuddered, an electric haze running up its body. Ash's eyes widened seconds before the Electric type blurred, overtaking Wisteria in a flash, the Spark attack sending the Ponyta stumbling.
He connected the dots in his head.
Shit. Ion Deluge and the ability Motor Drive. Ash knew Surge was a talented trainer, but to teach a Blitzle that technique before it was a Zebstrika was almost unheard of. Now Wisteria would be outsped and had lost her only physical attack.
Gritting his teeth, Ash focused.
"Jump!" His brief panic was momentarily pushed away when Wisteria didn't hesitate to launch herself over a Flame Charging Blitzle. Seeing the blatant trust his newest teammate had in him bolstered Ash more than words could.
The Psybeam that shot from her horn clashed with the weak flames surrounding Blitzle, striking it in the chest and causing one leg to buckle. Ash pushed their advantage, calling "Confusion!"
Blitzle fought through the headache, Shock Wave swiping Wisteria's hooves out from under her. She whinnied in surprise, then was barrelled over by a Flame Charge that left her shining mane blackened with soot.
Shit, Blitzle was just getting faster with each Flame Charge, running circles around Wisteria. What could he do?
He eyed the sparkles dancing on the field, the only visual reminder of Ion Deluge.
An idea popped into his head.
"One more, Blitz!"
"Agility, cover yourself in Fairy Wind!" Wisteria took off, her makeshift Fairy Charge leaving pink streaks behind her as the two attacks clashed. "Hold and Stomp!"
Ash crossed his fingers then grinned when the effects of Motor Drive did not activate. The Fairy energy kept the charged ions at bay. Surge's face was priceless. "Burst!" Finally, Wisteria let the built-up Fairy Wind blast from her body, knocking the unprotected and heavily bruised Blitzle from its feet. Her Stomp had landed right on the equine's rear knee, heavily immobilizing it.
"Psybeam!"
"Signal Beam!"
The two attacks missed each other by a hair's breadth, striking their targets simultaneously and sending a rush of air and dirt towards the trainers. Ash grimaced, knowing the super effective Bug attack would severely damage Wisteria.
When the dust cleared, Blitzle was lying on its side, damaged leg sticking out awkwardly and eyes closed.
Wisteria was trembling, her four hooves braced wide to keep her upright. A line of fur had been razed from her side where the debilitating Signal Beam had struck.
"Blitzle is-" Wisteria huffed, then her eyes rolled back and she collapsed.
Surge laughed uproariously, slapping his stomach as Ash smiled fondly and returned his stubborn Ponyta. Liz's announcement of the tie was barely acknowledged as Ash whispered words of thanks to the equine. He exchanged her Pokéball for another.
A Magneton was hovering above the field, eyes emotionless and magnets twitching and moving around. The magnetic field emanating from the odd Pokémon visibly warped the air around it.
"Time for a little redemption." Ash murmured, launching the black Pokéball.
Hemlock landed in a crouch, all joviality wiped from his face. He shared a nod with Ash, and to everyone's surprise, sent a nod toward Surge. The Gym Leader looked baffled before he smiled and harrumphed, shoulders rising and falling. "Let's see how evolution has treated ya."
"3-2-1 Battle Begin!"
"Flash Cannon!"
"Master Fake Out!"
Ash was unsure what to make of the expression on the Gym Leader's face, but he wanted to prove to the man that Hemlock had his instincts under control. The Double Team spread across the field, Hemlock's incredible mastery over the technique proving itself with the absurd number of clones.
The first clone that darted in made Magneton fire off a Sonic Boom, the second was destroyed with a Thunderbolt, and the third vanished from an attempted Thunder Wave. This allowed the real Hemlock to charge in with a glowing orange fist.
It only took the one Drain Punch to connect among the frenzied clones for Surge to call "Discharge!"
A swirling Dark Pulse met the Electric attack head on, kicking up dirt and gravel. Wasting no time, Surge called for a Metal Sound that brought Hemlock to his knees, a Thunderbolt catching him in the shoulder directly after.
But Hemlock was clever. The electricity, while painful, was collected into his own hasty Thunder Punch that punched into the ground. While his knuckles would no doubt be bruised, it was the lesser of two evils. Thunderbolt could be a devastating attack, targeting the nervous system and leading to spasms.
Surge grinned and shouted, "Overwhelm!"
The awful screeching was certainly aptly named. There was no way Hemlock would be able to hear him over the cacophony, but he clumsily threw himself into a Feint Attack to disappear. There had to have been a Supersonic mixed in there because Ash had never seen his teammate so uncoordinated.
The tides were temporarily turned when a hook of hair wrapped itself around the levitating Pokémon, yanking the Steel and Electric type straight into a double Fire Punch that struck the two outermost eyes.
The pain-filled shriek wasn't even an attack but still grated on the ears all the same.
"Gyro Ball!"
Hemlock was yanked from the ground, his hair keeping him tangled to the spinning magnets as the Steel energy rammed into him. His hair was automatically retracted to prevent tearing as he landed harshly on the field.
The Morgrem was bruised with some scrapes on his shoulder, but he was still good to fight.
"Double Team!" The crowd of clones rushed towards Magneton, closing in fast. Surge called for a Discharge that wiped them all out in a single wave. Ash grinned as Hemlock appeared from his Feint Attack, slamming into the Magneton before raining down relentless, fiery fists.
"Iron Defense!"
"Burning Jealousy!" Lt. Surge blanched when the searing attack scorched the Pokémon's metal hide.
"Magnet Bomb!"
Hemlock cried out when the point-blank attack detonated, the energy burning through his flesh and sending prickling stabs of pain through his body.
"Lock-On, you know what to do!"
"Hemlock, Protect!" His call came just in time, a flash of red preceded a vibrating ball of condensed lightning, like the power of a storm shoehorned into a single orb. Hemlock crossed his arms in front of his face in a sick replication of his trainer, the Zap Cannon impacting the green dome of energy with a resounding BANG.
Ash grin slid right off his face when a second Zap Cannon came tearing through the smoke.
The Morgrem's body flew back, skidding and rolling across the field before he struck the protective barrier unforgivingly. His fuschia body slid from the barrier and crashed against the ground.
Hemlock laid still, the small audience holding their breath as he twitched. Prepared to call the match, the ref slowly put her arm back down, watching in bafflement as the Devious Pokémon shakily got an arm underneath himself, taking a fortifying breath and pushing himself to his knees. His chest looked butchered, black burned and shiny with blood, half cauterized.
Hemlock's face twisted before he spit two small fangs from his mouth.
Then he started to glow.
Ash grinned maniacally as Hemlock grew.
And grew.
And grew.
Magneton was twitching rapidly, nervousness in every motion. Surge wasn't much better, his right hand picking at a loose thread on his pocket and his eyes locked on the evolving Pokémon.
It took longer than normal. Pokémon evolution duration was influenced by many things, but the biggest factors that extended the process were changes in size and power.
Finally the light stopped, pausing for a millisecond before being pulled inward and reabsorbed. And there Hemlock stood, his shadow looming.
The newly evolved Grimmsnarl released a furious howl that shook the psychic barriers. Hemlock was towering over Ash and even the levitating Magneton. His bulk had tripled, going from wiry and thin to hulking and monstrous. The hair from his time as a Morgrem has spread to cover his entire body in writhing life-like strands, increasing his defense to truly massive proportions.
"Hemlock!" The Grimmsnarl growled and whipped his head towards Ash. "Ready to win?" His gums were exposed as the Bulk Up Pokémon grinned. Dramatically and with great relief, Ash thrust his hand towards their opponent. "Drain Punch!"
Like the crack of a whip, thick hair shot from Hemlock's left hand to tangle in Magneton's magnets, yanking the Pokémon forward and right into the path of a prepped Drain Punch. Ash and Surge gaped when the power of the attack dented Magneton's body as it cracked the field beneath it.
Threading his fingers together above his head, fire burst forth as Hemlock brought the interlocked fists down on a wildly blinking Magneton.
When it moved no further, the Grimmsnarl planted two fists on either side of its downed opponent and howled in victory.
Ash couldn't help but smile as Hemlock looked over his shoulder at his trainer, still seeking approval even now as a fully realized Grimmsnarl. Beaming, Ash dipped his head, making Hemlock puff his chest in a familiar action.
"Damn, kid. What a beast." Lt. Surge had a hand raked through his hair, standing for a moment to admire Hemlock. "No matter, I think this battle has moved past the two-badge level! I have more than a match for him! Let's go, Chief!" An old Pokéball was launched through the air, a muscular Raichu landing heavily on the field.
"Rai Rai!" The Electric type flexed, baring its teeth in wild excitement. Sparks danced violently from its yellow pouches and all along the prehensile, dextrous tail. The metallic, sharp, notorious lightning bolt at the end was slightly notched at the tip.
"This gal has been with me for years, let's see if that beast of yours is up for the challenge."
Hemlock didn't take kindly to that, slamming his fists to the ground and roaring once more. Chief merely flicked her tail and leveled the Galar native with a rather evil expression, fangs bared.
"3-2-1 Battle Begin!"
"Electric Terrain!"
"Taunt, Dark Pulse." Hemlock flashed, his Prankster ability activating, angering Chief and cutting off the attack that would have shifted the terrain to her advantage. Surge scowled, even as the Dark Pulse grazed her side and she shifted into Quick Attack, charging at Hemlock.
Ash's grin threatened to split his face when his teammate caught the speedy opponent with a flaming fist, leaving a blackened batch of fur on her side. The subsequent Thunderbolt merely made Hemlock grunt, his writhing hair dispersing the electricity like rubber.
This was an incredible opportunity to see how evolution improved the Grimmsnarl.
Surge scoffed and made a motion with his hand that had Chief grinning in anticipation. She took off like a bullet, Hemlock bracing himself and an order on Ash's lips.
But then a sudden burst of speed and electricity sent Chief slamming into Hemlock with the force of a train.
The Wild Charge sent the Galarian Pokémon flying back, hitting the protective barrier with enough power to drive the breath from his lungs.
Sparks danced across Chief's body, making her shiver with savage glee. Hemlock took advantage, already recovering from the insane impact. The Dark Pulse tripped the Electric type, giving Hemlock time to launch himself forward by his arms to connect a full-bodied Play Rough that sent the Raichu skidding back.
Snarling out a rough, deep "chuu", she pushed off her back feet, the Double Edge meeting Hemlock's Bulk Up, giving him just enough defense to roar and slam a Drain Punch into the rodent's cheek.
Chief hissed and launched herself at Hemlock, another Wild Charge pulling a grunt from the gremlin's throat. Wrapping both hands around the rodent's middle, he slammed her into the ground and wrapped her in writhing hair. Her limbs were constrained to her sides as she struggled.
Hemlock pulled his arm back, the hair tugging Chief back, and then whipped it forward, like a powerful cast from a fishing pole, releasing Chief at the last moment. She spun wildly and struck the barrier, shaking the entire arena with a resounding crack.
Taking chase, the Grimmsnarl barrelled towards the prone Raichu.
"Web!"
The netting landed right where Hemlock placed his foot. Electricity raced up Hemlock's leg from where he was caught in the trap. His focus lapsed as he turned to rip the Electro Web from the ground, the attack dissipating in midair when it was thrown. Chief capitalized on the distraction, the Quick Attack-enhanced Play Rough bowling him over, catching him right in the gut.
Red eyes bulged as he gagged, unable to inhale.
Chief rained pink glowing fists down on the Grimmsnarl, practically overwhelming the wheezing Pokémon.
"Bulk Up!" Wiry strands reacted instantly, slithering around his body and layering over his front, blocking the Play Rough with their thickness.
There was a second where the Raichu's fists did nothing, thudding uselessly against the dense hair. Then Hemlock smirked and the hair coalesced around the next approaching fist.
Surge and Chief blanched, the Gym Leader honestly looking a bit green. Ash had to admit, it looked like something out of a horror movie.
The Grimmsnarl's hair creeped up Raichu's fist. Then her arm. Then her shoulder.
"Rai!" She panicked, swinging an Iron Tail around to strike her opponent. But the hair caught that too.
Chief was immobilized, electricity fizzing out when met with the dense strands. It looked like she was about to be absorbed into Hemlock's chest.
"Charge and Pulse!" Hemlock glowed, inky black energy sparking over his body and giving him an ominous glow.
"Zap Cannon!"
The call came too late, and Chief was too alarmed to focus, let alone aim. The Dark Pulse exploded from Hemlock's body, racing down his hair and suffusing Chief with the unnerving energy before the hair retracted and dropped the writhing Electric type.
Dark energy had a particular… unsettling effect on other types.
There was a pause, Ash watching their opponent and waiting to see if she could still fight.
But then Surge smirked, and a sharp whistle from his lips had Chief's ear twitching.
The tense atmosphere was broken by a shout from Surge, timed for the moment Taunt faded, and in the next instant the glowing pink energy of Light Screen and Reflect popped into existence. Then a particularly blaring Disarming Voice made Hemlock screech and stumble back.
"Never hesitate, kid! A lesson you haven't learned yet!"
Ash grit his teeth. "Double Team and Feint." While the clones were a little fuzzy - Hemlock being unused to his new form - it didn't matter. Each clone was popping in and out of existence, mimicking Feint Attack. The real Grimmsnarl started chipping away at Chief's Reflect little by little, the rodent's reflexes just a tad too slow when Hemlock's Prankster was paired with Double Team.
Finally, Raichu was fed up. She was black and blue and still shivering from the Dark Pulse. The telltale black glow of Nasty Plot surrounded her and she sparked for a moment, then the largest Thunder Ash has seen exploded from her body, decimating the clones, carving lines into the field, and freezing the real Hemlock in place, thousands of volts locking his muscles.
His hair could only absorb so much.
The attack washed over him, leaving him twitching violently as his muscles spasmed, trying to rid themselves of the debilitating electricity.
Both Pokémon were nearing the end of their rope.
A tricky Charm made Hemlock pause, allowing an Iron Tail to catch the Pokémon in the throat, eliciting a choking gasp and bringing him to his knees. The ropey tail wrapped around his neck, anchoring the Raichu in place. The approaching Focus Punch reared back, seconds away from devastating impact.
"BURN!"
Hemlock was silent, but the fire that exploded from his body roared for him.
Fire licked at the ceiling as Chief cried out, falling to the floor and thrashing in agony, the burn covering her entire stomach and chest. Smoke was wafting from the Grimmsnarl's body as he lumbered forward, shaky with remnants of electrocution. Even his wiry hair was twitching and curling sporadically.
"Spirit Break!"
Hemlock didn't even roar, fists glowing dark pink as he stood over the downed – but still conscious – Raichu. Hands above his head, he brought them down.
No hesitation this time.
Chief was returned in a flash of red light before Liz could even call the match.
All the adrenaline left Ash's body in a great rush, leaving him slightly lightheaded. He caught himself with a barely noticeable stumble, a massive exhale escaping his chest in a whoosh. Ash shook his head and walked forward to where Hemlock was staring at the ground, body still tense and panting for breath.
With gentleness reserved for very few people, Ash placed a hand on the Grimmsnarl's massive arm, having to look up to meet the Pokémon's wild eyes.
"Hey." Those wild eyes snapped to Ash, staring into his own for a few moments. Then the taut muscles released in a wave, shoulders slumping and a hand touching the ground to balance the giant.
Using all of his strength, Ash threw one of the Pokémon's arms around his own shoulders, supporting his teammate. Hemlock's nightmarish visage softened and his already strained lips pulled up at the corners. The wicked fangs glinted dangerously, like four deadly hooks. Ash patted his misshapen hands as an unsubtle cough caught their attention.
Surge stood there looking like the veteran soldier everyone knew him to be. His shoulders were squared, feet braced, and hands clasped tightly behind his back.
But he was grinning like an idiot.
"HA! I haven't had a battle like that in a hot minute!" Surge forcefully grabbed Ash's arm and grasped his forearm in a grip that once-upon-a-time would have burned. Now, Ash smiled and tightened his hold on Surge's own corded forearm. The Gym Leader took half a step back and turned his gaze to Hemlock.
"You've grown, and in more ways than one. You too, kid. Your integrity impressed me all those months ago. Despite your surly outer shell, you care a whole lot for Pokémon. Not just your own, either. You've got the makings of a great leader. Gutsy and brassy nerves paired with compassion for your friends and fellow soldiers. Don't let no one hold ya back, because you're gonna go far, kid." Surge turned his hand over and resting in his palm was the Thunder Badge.
Ash didn't take it, instead turning to Hemlock and gesturing to the small metal pin. Puffing his heaving chest, the Grimmsnarl proudly picked up the badge and held it for a moment. "Congratulations, Hemlock."
Hemlock's free arm snapped out, wrapping around Ash's shoulders and bringing his trainer to the Pokémon's chest, his whole torso rumbling with happiness. Smile softening, Ash ignored the pinpricks of pain from the microscopic thorns in the Grimmsnarl's hair and embraced him back.
Snapping his TM case shut, the shiny new Wild Charge safely nestled inside, Ash leaned back in his seat at the Pokémon center. Even though Hemlock was still standing at the end of the battle, he had definitely taken a beating. Wisteria also needed some rest after that rough Signal Beam scorched her side.
Tilting his head back, he smiled. This Gym Battle had been on the back of his mind for nine months. He could finally put it past him and move forward with the challenge. It will only get more difficult from here.
The first four Big Eight battles used no more than three Pokémon. After that, it was Gym Leader's choice. Ash knew Erika used three for her more Rookie battles. Sabrina only used one. She'd be his next Gym Battle. Challenging her with the handicap might be his only chance at defeating her. Ash's pride had warred with his practicality, and he reasoned with himself he could always challenge Sabrina at full strength at another point in time.
Sabrina only gave out approximately ten badges every League circuit, after all.
Everyone who showed up to the Indigo League with a Marsh Badge always made it to the top 32. An absolutely incredible feat.
Not that Ash wasn't confident in his team. It was his own mind that worried him. Sabrina was so difficult to defeat because she saw every strategy her opponents thought. Her telepathy was one of the biggest hurdles for any League hopeful.
Would she be able to read him? Would Yveltal's shadow hide his intentions from the greatest human Psychic in the world?
Broken from his musings when his Pokédex vibrated, Ash heaved himself off the couch and handed his ID over to the nurse at the counter. Clipping the black Pokéball and Ultra ball to his belt, Ash stretched his arms overhead as he exited the building.
Curving around the side to find the simple battlefield, Ash scanned the area with a frown. There were two trainers lounging around with their teams; both rookies by their ages and the looks of their Pokémon.
Ash internally and preemptively apologized for the abrupt distress they were about to experience.
He released his team, and braced himself for a tantrum.
The downright furious roar from Castor had Vermilion citizens diving for cover. The two rookies yelped and screamed, one of them shooting a wide-eyed but venomous glare as they hurried back inside the center.
The Desert Croc stomped up to a smug, freshly healed Hemlock and snapped his jaws. The Grimmsnarl imperiously lifted his chin and looked down on the Krokorok.
He could practically see the steam coming out of Castor's auditory canals as he rushed at his newly evolved rival. Hemlock was unconcerned, even yawning as he held his hand out and stopped the charging croc by the forehead.
It was quite comical, seeing Castor trying his hardest to push against the hand that held him in place. Hemlock didn't budge, going as far as to pick the pissed croc up and smirk in his snarling face.
Libra and Bane snickered to each other at the croc's look of absolute wrath. The Totem Hakamo-o's eyes were alight with both excitement and envy, though Ash knew she was aware of her own long journey towards her final evolution. Bane was quick to pat her thick, leathery neck, eliciting a rumble that sounded like a landslide.
The rest of the team watched in rapt attention, of course wanting to see a true fight. Orion was practically shaking with the need to join the approaching brawl, but Artemis was keeping him as distracted as she could. Wisteria, who Ash was realizing had very little self-preservation, attempted to charge forward only to be barred by Styx.
Sagitta clacked her beak and circled like a Mandibuzz overhead, waiting for the bloodbath that would surely unfold. Poor Mirae looked torn between joining her and watching from the sidelines.
Polaris stood at Ash's side, failing to hide the spark in his eye as he watched the infamous rivals.
Ladon was uninterested, already splayed out on his side and snoring.
The hanging Krokorok ripped Stone Edge from the field, trying to slice the Grimmsnarl into a million tiny pieces.
But Hemlock's dense hair proved much stronger than Castor anticipated.
Stones thudded uselessly against Hemlock's bulk, only serving to widen the troll's patronizing grin. Castor roared, squirming in the Grimmsnarl's iron grip.
"Okay okay, break it up." Hemlock unceremoniously dropped Castor, who luckily landed on his feet. The croc had his razor sharp teeth bared in a growl for a moment. Then he squeezed his clawed hands into a fist and closed his eyes, shaking with the force of his concentration.
"Castor! No forcing evolution!" The breath rushed from the croc's lungs, sending a half-hearted glare at his trainer. Sighing, Ash walked up and knelt beside the croc, knowing he didn't mind the implied 'smallness' of the action. "Hey, you'll get there. You're probably only at most a week or so away. It'll happen. But you can hurt yourself if you force it. Let it happen naturally, then you can challenge Hemlock at full strength."
The croc sullenly nodded, slumping and crossing his arms to turn away from Hemlock. Ash was the only one to notice Hemlock's grin turn crestfallen.
Ash patted Hemlock's massive arm and turned towards the rest of the team. "We won the Thunder Badge thanks to Wisteria and Hemlock." Ash smiled as Styx looked savagely gleeful at the Ponyta's success. "We'll stick around Vermilion for one more night, then head to Saffron. We'll pick up training on the road."
Ash left his team out as long as he was able, but once he saw trainers glaring at him from the windows of the Pokémon center, he knew he was pushing his luck. He returned his team one by one, but stopped at the last Pokémon.
Mirae stared up at him with big, begging jade eyes and Ash folded. The Mytheon had been a newly hatched Eevee the last time they were here. So as they were swallowed by the throngs of people, Mirae's head whipped back and forth, eyes hazy with familiarity.
He didn't explore Vermilion as much as he should have nine months ago. The busy port and marina had boats, ships, and cruise liners going to and from all the major regions. There were even some guided wilderness tours that took extreme backpackers to Almia, Orre, Fiore, and Oblivia. Those regions had very few civilizations and instead were renowned for their harsh wilds.
Having already seen the port when he left for Alola, Ash let his feet take him deep into the city proper.
It was very much a trade-hub, much like Slateport City in Hoenn and Hulbury in Galar. Foods from all over the world, specially crafted items from various regions, Pokéball seals, international fashion, and more.
The Eeveelution gained some awed glances, but people in Kanto were typically much more polite with their staring than other regions.
Gracefully leaping from merchant to merchant, Mirae's nostrils flared with the mixed scents of spices, incense, flavored honey, and even frying malasada. Eventually, what caught a majority of the Dragon's attention was a small stand selling Galarica Twigs from one of Galar's isles. They had a small table set up for people to weave them into wreaths and cuffs. There was one other person sitting at the table, bent over what looked to be the rough beginnings of a Galarica Cuff.
Bounding over, Mirae jumped up onto the bench and placed his paws on the table, startling the teenager. She looked at Mirae with an analytical gleam, but the Mytheon didn't notice, wings fluttering as he looked back at Ash with a pleading expression.
Smiling helplessly, Ash paid the vendor and sat down next to his Pokémon, and he started to plan his approach. The color would clash horribly with Mirae's fur, but obviously the Dragon didn't care.
Ash didn't pay the other teen any mind, but she definitely paid him mind.
"Ash?"
Startling, he looked up.
"Oh, Leaf. Hi."
The Pallet native had her shaggy brown hair pulled back in a messy Kalosian braid, her choppy bangs falling across her face and into her coppery eyes. Those eyes had always been observant and rather fanatic, the gleam of them reflected in the Poison types she favored.
The two of them rarely interacted, even with the classes they took together. Leaf and Astrid were often the only others that took the same electives as Ash.
"I didn't think any Pokémon other than Galarian Slowpoke utilized Galarica Twigs." He had forgotten that Leaf was similar to Giselle in the way they hid questions in statements.
Ash hummed under his breath and continued arranging the twigs into a circlet, Mirae vibrating with excitement next to him. "They don't. Mirae just likes flower crowns." Ash would often look back at the picture he took of Mirae, still an Eevee and still unnamed, with the simple crown of wildflowers he'd made after his loss to Giselle.
Mirae's thick chest scales scraped against the wooden picnic table, splinters falling to the ground beneath them as he rumbled in agreement. Even with his pearl horn-rings and necklace, the Mytheon loved to be adorned.
Ash had hid his discomfort when Mirae had first seen Ash's new 'necklace', beaming at the fact they somewhat matched. The Eeveelution's pearls were set into silver metal bands but he didn't notice or care about the color difference.
Mirae just liked that he and his trainer had matching jewelry.
Luckily, now Ash could divert his attention with a woven crown.
It was a waste of Galarica Twigs, though. A trainer had to weave the sprigs themselves if they hoped to evolve their Slowpoke. There was something about the learning process and effort of it that assisted in the interesting evolution.
"That's… sweet." Leaf's expression was one of suspicion. But then again, they didn't know each other very well. She had no idea what Ash was like; only had second-hand accounts from, well, Gary.
Mirae shot her a narrow-eyed look, baring his saber fangs just slightly, just enough to showcase his distaste. It only made the interest in Leaf's eyes flare.
The two fell into silence for a long while, both focusing on their projects. Every once in a while he could hear Leaf curse under her breath, or take a sudden inhale of breath in pain as the twigs snapped out of weave and caught her fingers.
Twigs were much harder to weave than flower stems, and Ash subtly coughed before he dipped the twigs in the water bowl left on the table, heated by Mirae's weak Mystical Fire. He saw the merchant smirk from behind Leaf.
Pursing her lips, Leaf hesitated in stubbornness before following suit, dunking the whole cuff in the warm water to make the sprigs more flexible.
They continued to work in silence, Ash pretending not to notice Leaf copying his slowed movements.
"How'd you get a Galarian Slowpoke?" Ash was surprised he was the one to break the silence. But he kept his attention on his hands, or on Mirae every time he scratched around the Eeveelution's horns.
"Got her from an illegal farm that I helped shut down. They had Kantonian and Galarian Slowpoke locked in cages, cutting off their tails each time they grew back and selling them. It was inhumane." Leaf growled under her breath, her fingers jerked in her anger and bent one of the twigs too far.
Ash merely hummed again, and she continued. "We made them regret their choices. Twiggy has grown a lot since then, she's ready." Ash didn't comment on the nickname. He was sure if he met the Slowpoke, it would fit.
"How's your starter?" Leaf had started with Bulbasaur, Gary with Squirtle, and Astrid with Charmander.
"Birch is a bitch, I love him."
Ash did his best not to choke in response to that, but he couldn't help the sharp bark of laughter he released. Leaf stared at him from under her bangs, keen eyes calculating, before she dropped her attention back to the cuff.
"I was surprised you didn't get one of the traditional starters." Once again, a question hidden in a statement.
"I had a Pokémon for a few years before we left on our journey."
Cutting eyes snapped to him, her fingers stilling. "Hm." Gaze drifting back down, she tapped the cuff with a blunt, dirt crusted nail. "Right. I read about that. Hydreigon."
Smothering his surprise, Ash scratched Mirae's chin as he finished the wreath in record time. Growling in eagerness, Mirae headbutted Ash none-too-gently to put it on him. Grabbing each ear, Ash threaded them through the wreath and settled it on the Eeveelution's head. The scarlet berries were indeed clashing with rosy fur. But Mirae was happy, jumping down to trot around the market, his head held high.
A little girl gasped in awe and clapped her hands as Mirae trotted in a circle, his wings giving off a weak Fairy Wind until it gently trailed behind him.
Pushing himself from the table, Ash hesitated as he stared at Leaf. "Good luck to Twiggy."
Leaf inclined her head, the slight tilt giving her an air of consideration. "Good luck to you."
Nodding back, Ash left, making his way deeper into the market. Ash and Leaf didn't know one another, but he thought he got an idea of what the other trainer was like from their brief conversation; strong-willed, shrewd, vindictive, with stalwart personal morals.
There was something to be said for seeing his childhood peers outside their small town. Seeing how they are removed from a group and removed from expectations. Viktor, Luke, Liam, and now Leaf have all surprised him in some way, breaking free of the boxes he'd put them in within his own mind.
Mirae brushed against his leg, baring his teeth up at Ash in an intimidating grin. Reaching down, he dragged his fingertips over his long ears as they continued to browse the market.
Surprisingly, there was a Paldean merchant selling Klawf legs, chorizo, and curry powder, so Ash bought a good bit so his Pokémon could try it.
Something new caught the Dragon's attention a short time later.
Pausing with his nostrils flaring, Mirae turned around and followed some scent. Ash shoved his hands in his pockets and followed, amused and curious about what treat caught Mirae's nose.
On the outskirts of the market, Mirae's growl took him by surprise.
It was more of a hissed warning, wings flared and charging a Fairy Wind. Ash put a hand on his head and stared into the shadows of a berry merchant's awning.
Hidden within was a Sableye.
Its mouth was open to bare jagged teeth in a facsimile of a smile, the Ghost twitching and tilting its head in disjointed jerks. Its eyes were a deep, midnight purple, the stone unfamiliar to Ash. But it was as if the night sky swirled in the gems.
It pointed at Ash with a jagged, arched claw.
Ash froze, he and Mirae watching as the Ghost snickered, shadows seeping from its feet and creeping up the merchant's stand. When the shadows fell away, there was something left on the counter of the unmanned stand.
With one last snicker, the Sableye waggled its spasming fingers at the two before it melted away.
Frowning, Ash edged closer to the stand, Mirae pressed to his leg, and sharply inhaled when he saw what was left behind.
Sitting there upon the table was an Enigma berry plant.
Swallowing thickly in discomposure, Ash looked around for the merchant. Moments later, a man came around from the back, carrying a small Wiki berry plant.
"Oh! Hello there. What can I help you find?"
Ash just gestured at the Enigma berry plant sitting innocently on the table.
The man snapped upright, eyes wide in alarm, almost dropping the potted plant before he gracelessly set it down. "Wha- huh?" He approached slowly, like it was a frightened Pokémon. He frowned at the curled leaves for a moment, leaning in close before reaching up to adjust his hat. "Aw shit."
Ash made an inquiring noise, still uncertain of what he'd just witnessed.
Removing his hat, the man ran a hand through his hair. "Sorry, lad, it's just that I have no idea how this got out here. This has been packed up and hidden away for a convention." The man frowned, nervous eyes darting between the plant and Ash. "This one is ruined."
Ash looked closer, and saw the purple haze emanating from the stalk.
Enigma plants were as their name proclaimed. They were odd.
They had the unique ability to warp and absorb energy, taking on its properties. Their rarity came from how the entire plant had to be uncontaminated from outside energies in order to be valuable.
When the plant was exposed to certain energy types, for example, Poison, the plants would produce berries assimilating that type. Upon eating these berries, a Pokémon's resistance to the particular type would improve. For example, if he fed the Poison-type berry to Ladon, it would improve his resistance to Poison. Though upon ingesting the berry, there was a short period of illness as the Pokémon's body adapted.
Exposing the Enigma plant to energy was a fragile process that could easily go wrong, especially if it was exposed to more than one 'type' energy. Interesting things would happen to the plant when that happened.
It took a newly planted Enigma berry four years before it bore fruit in comparison to the six months of most other berry plants. This spiked their prices and rarity even more. Even just being out in the open risked contamination.
"I'm a superstitious sort, been seeing apparitions popping up for weeks, getting bad feelings, feeling heavy, that sort of thing. So I'd be real pleased if you just… took it."
Ash blinked. A potent mixture of apprehension and doubt rose up, but he tried to temper it.
"Why?" Ash couldn't believe this man was just… giving it away.
Sighing, the man adjusted his hat again, a nervous tick. "I have one other plant, and a few seeds, this will set me back, but not leave me destitute. And if my color vision is as good as I think it is, this plant has been exposed to those damned Nether-spawn."
Pursing his lips, Ash thought for a moment. There were about a dozen Enigma berries ripening on the plant, and he could always harvest the seeds. He'd gone this long without them, he can go another four years.
The berries wouldn't be super useful if they could only improve spectral resistance.
Nevertheless.
Ash agreed, shuffling some of the items in his storage compartments around so there was an empty one for the plant. The man obviously had mixed feelings about just giving the plant away, but he didn't back out, just sent Ash off with a pout.
The Sableye obviously exposed the plant, but why?
Spirits mellowed after the interesting find, Ash continued on through the city with Mirae trotting at his side. Once the Sableye was gone, he'd gone back to preening over his wreath.
Pursing his lips, Ash decided to return to the Pokémon center. He returned Mirae and headed west.
He had just gotten to the outskirts near the ocean when his eyes caught a bright, fiery flicker.
Unable to help himself, Ash drew closer to the incredible Rapidash that was tapping their hooves against the cobblestone walkway. The walkway led to a rather large and ornately decorated house. Nearing it, he eyed the sign mounted on the gate.
Pokémon Fan Club HQ
"Here to gush about Pokémon?"
Ash reflexively stamped down his flinch, turning to see an old man that had previously been blocked by the massive Rapidash. Even his spark had been overshadowed by the Rapidash's blaze of life.
The man had a nicely pressed brown suit and a matching top hat. His gray mustache reminded Ash of a Sealeo.
Ash cleared his throat. "I'm exploring the city. I couldn't help but admire the Rapidash. Are they yours?"
The man grinned, his mustache lifting with the movement. "Why yes! This is my darling Sam. Rapidash are my favorite Pokémon, and it's no wonder! I grew up as an equestrian rider and none of the other equines are as smooth or as fast as a Rapidash!"
Ash had to smile at the gentleman. He obviously loved his Pokémon. Unclipping the Ultra ball on his belt, he held it up to the sunlight. "I actually recently caught a Ponyta. May I bother you for some tips and advice?"
"Ho ho! Not at all! It would be my pleasure, young man."
Nodding, Ash pressed the button on the Ultra ball, and Wisteria appeared with her usual boisterous fanfare. While she was stomping and bucking, she finally caught sight of the Fire-type variant and froze, staring up at it in awe.
"My goodness! What a specimen!" While the gentleman admired Wisteria with blatant wonder, Sam lowered their head and nudged the Galarian variant with its snout. The Ponyta had a full body shiver before bucking her back legs and prancing around the Fire type.
While the two got acquainted, Ash told the man, Leonard, how he caught his teammate.
"The child of the alpha mare! How marvelous. She must have seen something special in you, young man. Now, I'm not much of a battler, but I can tell you all about their care! You'll need a curry comb, hard brush, soft brush, hoof pick…"
The two talked for almost an hour. There was a lot that went into equine care, more than Ash realized. He took pages of notes and put in a reminder to order a grooming kit. Leonard had coat conditioner recommendations and advice for training the Pokémon to carry a rider.
"Oh, I guess I didn't think about using her as a ride Pokémon when she evolves. I have a flier that I typically use to get around." Styx would burn him to a crisp if she knew she was referred to as just a 'flier'.
"Young man, there are few things better than riding an equine at full gallop across a flat countryside. You know what? Let's head to the back, I have a ring set up for lessons. Let's give you one."
Pleasantly surprised, Ash followed the man and Sam around the back of the large house, Wisteria following along curiously.
Leonard had downplayed the ring. It was twice the size of a League approved battlefield. Packed gray dust and dirt layered the ground and various jumps were set up. There was a shed Leonard directed him to for equipment.
They found riding pants, gloves, boots, and a helmet for him before the man walked Ash through grooming. Leonard demonstrated on Sam with Ash mimicking his work on Wisteria. She really didn't care for the hoof pick but eventually they got through it.
Following that, Ash was shown how to position the bridle, saddle pad, half pad, and saddle. Ash was hesitant about tightening the girth but Leonard assured him it had to be secured. They measured the stirrup length based on Ash's height and then it was time to ride.
Sam was calm as Ash fumbled, not realizing how weird it was to mount a saddle.
The lesson took well over an hour. Ash had to adjust to the gentle sway of the Pokémon beneath him, plus the stirrups kept slipping down to his midfoot. Once he figured out how to keep his heels pressed down and calves engaged, he learned to trot. Posting and two-point holds around the rings had Ash's legs aching in places he had never felt before.
Wisteria had watched all of this with a mixture of interest and jealousy. Ash hadn't realized the little equine had staked a claim on him, but it made his heart melt knowing she was jealous of Sam.
Leonard had to steady him when he dismounted, his legs feeling like jelly.
"Come back tomorrow morning, I'd like to get you to canter at least once. Stretch when you get back to where you're staying."
Thanking the man who only smiled in response, Ash hobbled to grab his things. Leonard allowed him to hold on to the riding gear until tomorrow.
Though it was painful, Ash knelt beside his Ponyta and lavished her with attention, reassuring her she was the only equine for him.
"Yes, you're perfect. Sam was fine, but you're just on a whole 'nother level." Wisteria had her head lifted high as she soaked up the attention. The sour mood was soothed away and the two headed - slowly - back to the Pokémon center.
After a short soak in an ice path, dinner for the team, and a deep sleep, Ash and Wisteria were back at the Fanclub HQ the following morning. Artemis and Polaris had been curious when he'd told them about it yesterday, so they were on the sidelines watching. Well, Artemis was curious. Polaris just liked to be out with Ash.
Leonard had hardly spared Artemis a glance, nodding to both her and Polaris before focusing back on the lesson.
Wisteria had joined them in the ring today, learning the difference between walk, trot, canter, and gallop.
While Ash was sore to the Nether and back, he was looking forward to cantering today. His adductor muscles screamed when Sam finally picked up his gate, having to squeeze his legs to prevent his body from being thrown off the Pokémon.
It was invigorating and much more hands-on than flying with Styx is. Sam was trained to listen to what the reins and Ash's legs were telling him to do. If Ash loosened the reins at all, Sam would go faster. If Ash squeezed his legs slightly tighter, the equine would shorten his strides.
Riding was exhausting, but it was almost like battling, the rider and Pokémon in sync and working together.
At the end, Ash was once again barely able to stand when he returned to the ground. Polaris had his arms crossed but allowed Ash to lean against him. Wiping the sweat from his face, he smiled at Wisteria, who was huffing for breath after the hour-long workout.
"Here." Blinking and looking up, Ash saw Leonard struggling beneath the weight of a rather large black saddle. Much larger than the one on Sam. At his questioning look, Leonard grunted and gave a strained but genuine smile. "This is a saddle for a draft breed. It's designed to grow with its owner. I want you to have it."
"But… saddles are crazy expensive. You're just giving this one to me?"
Leonard huffed and Ash hurried to take the heavy load from the man. "The last two days have been a delight. Finding someone who wants to learn about the Ponyta line with such fervor is rare. You just have to promise me you'll come back when she's evolved so I can bask in her magnificence."
Ash huffed a laugh. "Thank you, Leonard. For everything." The gentleman waved his hand in a flippant manner.
"Off with ya. You have a journey to get back to."
After Ash had the saddle stored in one of his containers, he bid Leonard goodbye and hit the road. Artemis was returned, unfortunately, but Wisteria and Polaris stayed out and flanked him during his walk through the city.
Stopping at the Pokémon Center, Ash grabbed the items he left in his room and checked out.
It was time to return to Saffron.
Ash finally defeated Surge! Hemlock evolved! Castor is pissed!
I love 'slice of life' moments, especially before the plot and pace really pick up
For Grimmsnarl, I took heavy influence from Tom Hardy's Venom and The Avengers' Hulk for how he moves and uses his hair.