"Ash, hurry up and get in the car! We're gonna be late!" Ash looked toward the lobby doors of the hotel and sighed in embarrassment. Leave it to Misty to be loud enough to be heard through, supposedly, soundproof walls.

"Sorry about that, ma'am." Ash looked up and grinned nervously at the hotel manager.

The woman only chuckled as she continued to fill out some documents on the desk in front of her. "That's alright sir. If you don't mind me asking, where are you two off to in such a hurry?"

"Oh, I don't mind at all. We're heading to the Indigo Stadium. I'm going to be facing the Pokemon Master in a few hours."

The woman took a second to look Ash up and down as a smile made its way to her face. "I thought that I recognized you! Well Mr. Ketchum, I'm glad you enjoyed your stay here. Thank you for doing so and please come again whenever you like."

Ash took the keys to the suite out of his pocket and handed them to the manager with a warming smile on his face. "I should be the one thanking you! The service was absolutely fantastic. I look forward to the next..."

Suddenly, Misty busted through the front doors and stomped angrily toward Ash. As he covered his head from the hit he was surely about to receive from Misty's mallet, she grabbed Ash's arm and began to drag him out of the hotel.

"Ash, we have a hour to get to the stadium and get ready for your battle! Quite pittle-fucking around and get your ass in the car!" A blush of pure embarrassment covered Ash's face as he dropped his head to the floor to avoid being recognized.

"Good luck!" The manager called out to the couple as they made their way out the doors.

"Thank..." Before Ash could finish, Misty had already slammed the doors closed and was stuffing him into the passenger seat of the car.

"You do know that I can sit down on my own right?" Misty let go of Ash and planted her hands on her hips as she glared at him.

"Yeah, I know. The thing your forgetting is that if it was left up to you then we would most likely be sitting here for half a hour waiting for you to do something as simple as buckle your seat belt!"

Ash grinned at this. "It would not! It would take me fifteen minutes tops!"

Misty brought her hands to her face and rubbed her temples as she chuckled to herself. "Arceus, I'm marring an absolute moron."

"You're just figuring this out? I thought that I was the dense one in this relationship."

Misty grinned and rolled her eyes before making her way to the driver's side of the car and getting in. Once inside, Misty cranked the car and let it idle for a second.

"You ready?" Misty placed her hand on the shifter and awaited Ash's word.

"As ready as I'll ever be."

Misty nodded and put the car in gear before taking off. After what felt like an eternity, they had finally been on the road for 20 minutes. Time seemed to be passing by at a crawl and the fact that there was only silence between the two wasn't helping. Misty decided to break the silence with a question.

"Who do you think you're going to use first in the battle?"

"..."

"..."

The silence worried Misty for a second. She couldn't look away from the road at the moment, so she decided to try again. "Ash... why are you ignoring me?"

"..."

"..."

"ASH!"

The raven-haired man jumped at the sudden outburst and looked at Misty with a dazed expression on his face. Misty took a quick second to look at Ash and back at the road again. "I'm glad to see something finally got your attention."

Ash chuckled nervously to himself. "Sorry about that, Mist. I didn't mean to ignore you like that. I just..."

Misty looked at Ash once again and placed one of her hands on his thigh. "What is it, Ash?"

Slowly but surely, tears began to build up in Ash's eyes. "I just can't believe that it's all over after this battle." Ash wiped the tears from his face and placed his hand on Misty's. The redhead looked over and noticed Ash was grinning at her. "It feels like just yesterday when I torched your bike."

Misty grinned back. "You know... you never did pay me back for that bike."

They both giggled for a second before Ash got serious again. "I'm okay with leaving the training and battling behind... but... I will miss everything else that came with it. Making new friends, traveling to new and exciting places, even the moments when Team Rocket would force themselves into the picture." 

Misty's smile soon fell into a frown as she sighed. "I know what you mean. After we split up in Johto and I had to return to the gym, I felt like my entire life had just ended. The memories of our travels together were all I had left and they just weren't enough."

Ash looked at Misty as a small smile made its way to her face. "Until it was."

"What is that supposed to mean?"

Misty chuckled before answering his question. "Trust me, Ash. It hurts for a while but... it gets better over time. The problem with me was that I no longer had the people from those memories to spend time with. I only saw Brock like twice a month after that and... you know how it went between us."

Ash reached up and rested his hand on Misty's shoulder. "I'm so sorry about how that all played out. I wanted to see you so badly but..."

Misty leaned over and rested her head on Ash's hand. "I know, Ash. You had training to do and I had a gym to run. There was nothing that could be done in that situation. I'm just happy that you got in touch with me as much as possible. The fact you did was one of the only things that kept me going at the time."

"I could have done more though. I could have taken time out of traveling to see you. I could have..." Suddenly, a finger silenced him.

"It doesn't matter anymore.  I never blamed you for being away, so you better not blame yourself. All that matters is that you're here now... in the best way possible."

They both laughed in unison as Misty pulled into the parking lot of the stadium. "Wow, time flew by didn't it?"

Misty looked over and glared at Ash. "After you decided to finally pay attention to me and actually talk, yeah it did."

Ash chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head. He then looked away from Misty and toward the stadium, a worried expression shooting across his face in the process. Misty noticed Ash was becoming nervous, so she decided to help him out of it.

Ash turned to say something to Misty, but before he could, she planted her lips on his. Ash may have been nervous before, but the soothing kiss soon made him forget everything and enter a state of bliss.

They never wanted it to end, but the need for air arose quicker than usual and the two unwillingly pulled away from each other. As Misty's warm breathe ran across Ash's face, he slowly opened his eyes and found that the very woman that was on his mind was staring at him with the biggest smile on her face.

"You don't need to be nervous. Whether you win or lose, I'll be right there cheering you on all the way and waiting for you after it's all over."

Ash smiled as he leaned in and pecked Misty on the lips. "Now you go out there and give them everything you have!"

A smirk made its way to Ash's face. "Will do, Mist. I love you."

"I love you too. Good luck out there. However, something tells me your not going to need it."

Ash looked back at the stadium and sighed. "Now why did you have to go and jinx it?"

Misty giggled at this and opened her car door to get out. "You know that I don't believe in stuff like that. It's up to you and Arceus, not some words that came out of my mouth."

Misty stepped out and shut the door. Ash watched as she took a few steps forward before realizing Ash wasn't with her. When she turned around and noticed that Ash was still in the car Misty threw up her arms and huffed.

"Are you coming or what?"

Ash grinned at this as he opened the door and stepped out. "Yeah, I'm coming."

He then closed the door and walked up to Misty, grasping her hand in his. They both smiled at each other as they made their way inside the stadium. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

'This is it.' Ash thought to himself. 'It's finally happening.'

As Ash stood still in utter astonishment, the crowd erupted into a deafening roar at the sight of the Pokemon Master entering the battlefield.

"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls," The announcer started. "please welcome the Pokemon Master himself... REEEEEED!!!" The audience became even louder at the announcement. As Red waved to the crowd, he slowly made his way to Ash.

'OH, MY ARCEUS!' Ash screamed in his head. 'HE'S COMING THIS WAY!'

As Red edged ever closer, Ash's breath became heavier and heavier. 'What if I'm dreaming?' Ash thought. 'What if this isn't really happening?'

Before Ash could come up with an answer, the Pokemon Master stopped in front of him and began to shake Ash's hand. "So your the one who's supposed to take my place?"

Ash became flustered by this. He didn't know what to say to this. "I-I-I... uhhh..." 

Suddenly, Red started laughing as he grasped Ash by the shoulder. "There's no need to be nervous. I've seen your previous battles and I can tell that you're a worthy opponent."

A small grin made its way to Ash's face. "Thank you, sir."

"Please... call me Red." He then let go of Ash's shoulder and walked to the other side of the stadium. After reaching his side, Red turned to face Ash as he grabbed his first Pokeball.

The referee made his way to the middle of the battlefield and pointed to both trainers. "This will be a six on six pokemon battle! The opponent who takes out the other and still has Pokemon standing is the winner!"

Once between the two, the referred looked toward red. "Are you ready?" Red simply nodded as a reply.

The referee then looked toward Ash. "Are you ready?" Ash averted his gaze to the stands. He could see May, Dawn, Max, Brock, Delia, and Misty all standing and giving him a thumbs up.

A smile came to his face as he looked to his feet. "Pikachu, your up!"

"Pika pika!" The pokemon exclaimed as he bounded out to his starting place on the field.

The referee grinned as he brought his arms above his head. "Then let this battle... COMMENCE!" He then brought his hands down and began to retreat to safety.

"Pika, I choose you!" Red threw out his Pokeball and a Pikachu that closely resembled Ash's formed. Red then pointed to Ash. "Your move."

Ash closed his eyes and took in a dept breath and held it for a second. 'Keep it together Ash. We both know you can do this so get out there and do it.' Ash ordered himself in his head.

As Ash slowly opened his eyes and exhaled he formulated a plan. "Pikachu, Start this off with an Electro Ball!" As the Pokemon jumped up and began to form the ball of electricity at the end of his tail, Red gave his command.

"Pika, counter it with your own Electro Ball!"

"Pika pi!" Pika rushed forward and jumped into the air. As Ash's Pikachu released the ball of electricity from the grip of his tail, Red's unleashed his. The attacks clashed together at full force and exploded into a cloud of dust and sparks.

When everything settled, Red took the offensive. "Pika, use Volt Tackle and take him down!"

As the opposing Pokemon built up speed and electricity began to form around him, Ash had an idea. "Pikachu use Volt Tackle as well!"

'What is he thinking?' Misty asked herself. 'There's no way Pikachu could beat him in a straight-up brawl. He's too powerful.'

Just before the Pokemon hit, Ash gave his command. "Pikachu, jump into the air and dodge it and then follow up with Thunderbolt from above!"

"Pika!" The electric mouse jumped into the air, dodging the opponent's attack by only inches, and began to charge up the Thunder attack. A smirk made it's way to Red's face.

"Pika, use Thunder Wave!" The tiny mouse came to a stop and quickly charged up the attack.

"Pika.... CHUUUU!!!" The tiny mouse unleashed the wave of electricity and managed to strike Ash's Pikachu with it, but not before being hit by the opponent's Thunderbolt.

Both Pikachu's soared backward and hit the ground at the same time. They were both able to get right back up, but Ash noticed something in Pikachu's eyes. "Pikachu, are you..."

Suddenly, the Pokemon grunted as he tensed up and sparks flew from his cheeks. Red smirked at this. "Pika, he's paralyzed! Take him out with a Quick Attack!"

The Pokemon dashed forward and built up speed while on a collision course with Pikachu. "Pikachu, you have to dodge it!" Pikachu looked up at Ash before building up all of his strength and jumping out of the way of the Quick Attack.

"Pika!" Pikachu cried out in pain as he hit the ground. 

"Pika, he's injured! He can't dodge you this time! Use Volt Tackle and finish him off!" Red ordered

Ash looked on in horror as Red's Pikachu built up speed and became engulfed in electricity. There was nothing Ash could do... or so he thought.

Ash was waiting for the hit when he notified Pikachu staring at him. The Pokemon nodded slightly and looked back at the opponent.

"The paralysis must have worn off!" Ash exclaimed under his breath. As the opposing Pikachu got closer and closer to hitting, Ash's smirk became bigger and bigger.

Red looked up and noticed this. He immediately looked at Ash's Pikachu on the ground. He was looking up at the Pokemon Master with a smirk on his face and a thumbs up.

"Pika, he's playing us! Dodge..." Red tried to warn his Pikachu, but it was too late.

"Pikachu," Ash called out. "dodge it and hit him with the strongest Thunderbolt you can muster!"

Pikachu looked away from Red and back at his rival. He then jumped out of the way just in time, sending his opponent sliding across the battlefield and into the wall. The hit wasn't hard, but it stunned him long enough to give Pikachu the advantage.

Ash's Pikachu quickly turned toward his dazed counterpart and dashed forward in a blaze of speed before jumping into the air and build as much electricity in his cheeks as he possibly could.

"Pika, you have to dodge it!" The Pikachu snapped itself out of its confusion just in time to look his downfall in the eyes.

"PIKACHU, USE IT NOW!!!"

"Pika... CHUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!" The bolt of lightning shot out of Pikachu's cheeks at the speed of light and engulfed the entire battlefield in a blinding light. The attack hit within milli-seconds and caused a loud bang that resembled the sound of thunder. 

Once the light subsided and the crowd was able to direct their vision back to the arena, the sight shocked them. Both Pikachu's were still standing and staring each other down. They were both struggling to stand and were panting and sweating like crazy.

Pika used the last amount of his strength to look over at Red. The trainer simply nodded to his Pokemon as he collapsed. Red pulled out his Pokeball and recalled the electric mouse.

"You did extremely well, Pika. I'm so proud of you." He whispered.

Ash smiled at the sight as he walked to his Pikachu's side. The Pokemon was determined to keep standing until he looked up and saw his trainer. Ash sat down next to him and allowed the Pokemon to collapse in his arms.

"You did so well Pikachu. I couldn't be more proud of you." The Pokemon slowly looked up into Ash's eyes and smiled before passing out in his arms.

Ash slowly stood up as to not disturb Pikachu's well need rest and made his way to his side of the arena. He sat Pikachu on the ground out of the way and faced the music once again.

The crowd erupted into a fit of screams and yells. Suddenly, Red put a hand in the air and the entire crowd went silent. "I'm impressed, Ash. Pika has never gone down on the first round like that before. I can assure you, however, you haven't seen everything I've got. If you expect to beat me then you're going to have to put everything you have into this battle."

Ash directed his eyes to the ground as he grinned and turned the hat on his head backward. "Oh, trust me..." Ash looked up and stared Red in the eyes. "I'm just getting warmed up."

Red smirked at this as he reached for his belt and his next Pokemon. "Blasty, I choose you!"

The Blastoise formed and shot two jets of water straight into the air before taking his battle stance. Ash reached for his next Pokemon and decided to go the safer route with the type advantage.

"Sceptile, I need your help!" The Pokemon took form and growled at Blastoise. However, It didn't seem to faze the turtle. It only seemed to piss it off.

"Sceptile, cut him down with Leaf Blade!" Sceptile rushed forward as the blades on his forearms turned green and grew in size.

"Blastoise, withdraw into your shell!" The Pokemon roared before retreating into his shell just before Sceptile landed the attack. Sceptile hacked at Blastoise's shell multiple times, but there was no use in trying. Blastoise's are known for having ridiculously strong shells and there was no way Sceptile was going to do anything to it.

"Sceptile, fall back and..." Suddenly, the guns protruding out of Blastoise's back took aim right at Sceptile.

"Blasty, use Hydro Pump!" Sceptile looked up and fright shot across his face as Blastoise's guns shot two perfectly aimed jets of pressurized water into Sceptile's chest at point-blank range.

Sceptile was sent flying into the stadium's wall as Blastoise came out of his shell and continued to blast Sceptile with his water cannons.

"Sceptile, use Leaf Blade and block it!" The Pokemon brought his arms forward as the blades cut the Hydro Pump into four separate streams.

"Push forward, Blasty!" As the water continued to blast out of Blastoise's guns relentlessly, the Pokemon edged closer and closer to Scepitle with every step it took.

"Scepitle, you're doing great! Now get up and do the same!" Scepitle growled in pain as he stood up and began to push through the jet of water. Suddenly, he began to pick up speed and was soon in a full sprint.

"Blasty, shoot forward and use Skull Bash!" Blastoise roared as he cut off the water from his guns and rushed forward.

"Scepitle, this is your chance! Jump into that air and us Energy Ball!"

"Scepitle!" The Pokemon yelled as he did as he was told. Just before Blastoise could land the Skull Bash, Sceptile jumped into the air and formed the ball of pure green energy in his hands.

"Blasty, behind you!" Blastoise tried to turn around but wasn't fast enough to do so. Sceptile landed directly behind Blastoise and threw the ball straight into his back.

The hit sent the turtle Pokemon flying forward and hitting the dirt. Although the Pokemon had just taken a super-effective hit at close range, Blastoise stood right back up and roared.

"Blastoise!"

"Scepitle!" The grass-type yelled in response.

Red brought his hand up in front of him and clenched it into a fist. "Blasty, use Aqua Tail!"

As Blastoise rushed forward, Ash gave his command. "Sceptile, use Leaf Storm!"

Leaves formed all around Sceptile as he shot them forward in one giant mass. Though it could turn out for him in the end, Blastoise continued to push forward. Once the Leaf Storm struck at full force it could be seen that Blastoise was being effected, but he never slowed and he never backed down.

"Scepitle, don't give in! Keep them coming!" Sceptile nodded and began to push forward as the attack became more and more ferocious.

Even still, Blastoise never faltered and his tail soon became engulfed in water. "Take him down, Blasty!" Red cried out!

Out of nowhere, the Pokémon jumped above the Leaf Storm and brought his tail forward. "Scepitle, block it!"

"Sceptile!" His forearms began to glow as he brought the blades forward to block the incoming attack. Blastoise collided with Sceptile and caused an explosion of water and green energy to surround both Pokemon.

When everything settled, Scepitle was on the ground fainted while Blastoise stood over him. "Yeah!" Red cried out. "Good..."

Suddenly, Blastoise's knees buckled and he began to stumble. "Come on Blasty! Stay standing! I know you can!"

The Pokemon looked up to its master and shut his eyes. "Blast...oise." The Pokemon called out weakly before collapsing.

"Once again, both trainer's Pokemon are down!" The referee announced. "Both trainers may now call out their next Pokemon!"

Red smiled as he looked down at his belt. "Once again, you impress me, Ash. Looks like I'm going to have to take it up a notch." He picked a Pokeball off his belt and threw it out.

"Vee, I need your help!" The Espeon took form in mid-air and landed on all fours.

"Espe espeon!" The Evee-lution cried.

Misty looked on in astonishment as Ash called out Infernape. "They're so equally matched!" She exclaimed.

"It's like their two sides of the same coin!" May said.

"They even look the same!" Dawn pointed out.

Misty looked over to Brock and sighed. "Do you think Ash will..."

"It's too early to tell." Brock interrupted. "You never know what will happen. Things could change in an instant."

Misty looked back at the battlefield. "What do you think Delia?"

Delia didn't hear the question. She didn't even know who was winning the battle. She was to busy staring at Red.

'Why do I feel like I know him?' Delia asked herself in her head. 'He looks so...' Suddenly, it hit her, and when it did, it caused her entire world to collapse around her.

Tears instantly began to run down her cheeks as she gasped into her hand. Misty noticed this and rubbed Delia on the back. "Hey, what's wrong? Why are you crying?"

Delia looked over at her future daughter-in-law and tried her best to wipe away as many tears as she could. "Misty... what I'm about to tell you... you must never ever tell Ash. Do you understand me?"

A worried expression shot across her face as Misty nodded slowly. Delia looked back at the Pokemon Master and began to cry again. "That man... he's..."

Suddenly, Infernape came crashing into the wall directly in front of them. "Infernape, are you okay?" Ash questioned his Pokemon.

Infernape had his eyes closed tightly, but they soon opened and revealed that he had fainted. "Infernape is unable to battle! Ash, you may now choose your next Pokemon!" The referee called out.

Misty started to look back at Delia, but Brock nudged her in the arm. She looked over at him as Brock leaned in closer so she could hear. "As I said, the battle can take any turn it sees fit."

Misty pulled away from Brock and started to look back at Delia. "What were you going to say about..." Misty soon found out that she was just talking to the wind. Delia's seat was empty and she was nowhere to be found. 

Misty looked behind her and got Dawn and May's attention. "Girls, where did Delia go?"

Dawn shrugged and looked back at the battle, while May leaned in. "She said that she needed some air and that she would be back later." May explained.

A frown made its way to Misty's face as she started to turn back around and focus on the fight. "Thank you, May."

"Vee, use Psybeam!" Espeon barked as she built up the psychic attack.

"Greninja, use Ice Beam to counter it!" The Pokemon stood up straight and brought his arms to his chest. Ice began to from his hands and it was soon at full power.

"Vee, do it!"

"Greninja, now!"

The two Pokemon unleashed their beams at the same time and they soon collided. The resulting explosion sent them both flying backward and into the wall. Greninja slowly but surely got back up while Espeon stayed down.

"Espeon is unable to battle! Each trainer has three Pokemon left! The Pokemon Master may now choose his next Pokemon!" Red reached to his belt and grabbed his next Pokemon's Pokeball.

"Saur, get out there and do me proud!"

"Venusaur!" The Pokemon roared as he formed from the red light.

"Venusaur, use Vine Whip!" Suddenly, two vines shot out of Venusaurs back as they raced toward their intended target.

"Block them with Aerial Ace!" Ash demanded.

Two glowing daggers formed in Greninja's hands as he rushed forward and sliced at the vines. Not even once did they make contact, but the effort it took to block all of the incoming blows wore Greninja down extremely quickly.

Ash started to call Greninja back so they could change into their Ash-Greninja form, but he hesitated. Suddenly, visions of his injury and his time in the hospital shot through his brain. He then looked over at Misty.

A decision needed to be made and quick. What was he going to choose? Should he continue as is and risk losing the round and even the match so something like that didn't happen again, or did he risk getting hurt again for the win?

He looked back up at Greninja and took a stance. "We don't need it Greninja! We can take him out as we are right now! Now get close and use Water Shuriken!"

The frog Pokemon nodded as he shot forward in a blaze of speed. He then jumped into the air and formed the ninja star in his hands. Red grinned at this.

"Venusaur, use sleep powder while he's vulnerable!" Suddenly, a bright-colored powder shot out of the plant on Venusaur's back and covered the surrounding arena.

Greninja tried not to breathe it in, but it was no use and he fell asleep. The Water Shuriken in hands dispersed into a tiny explosion of water as Greninja began to free fall.

"Venusaur, use Solar Beam and hit him in the air!" Red ordered. 

As the Solar Beam began to grow in power and Greninja continued to fall, time seemed to slow down for Ash. He had another choice to make. However, this one was much easier to decide upon.

He was going to lose this round anyways. There was no way Greninja was going to wake up in time and there was no way he could take a hit like that and be fine.

Just before Venasaur could unleash the devastating attack, Greninja was absorbed into a bright red light. The audience went silent. They didn't know what had happened at first until they saw Ash holding what looked to be Greninja's Pokeball.

A smile became plastered onto Red's face. "Venusaur, cancel the attack!" The bright light on the Pokemon's back dissipated as Red walked up to him and rubbed his forehead.

"That was an admirable thing you just did, Ash." Red complimented Ash.

Ash smiled as he slipped the Pokeball onto his belt. "I wouldn't say it was. It was just the right thing to do."

Red looked down at Venusaur and grinned. "You know... I have never met someone as passionate about Pokemon as you, Ash." The Pokemon Master began to take Venusaur's Pokeball and recall him. The audience gasped at this. "That's why I'm going to..."

"No." Ash whispered.

"What was that?"

Ash sighed. "I said no. I refuse to be handed the win just because I'm passionate about Pokemon. If I win, I want it to be because I deserve it. I want it to be because I'm the very best... like no one ever was."

Red looked back down at Venusaur. "You think that you're up for it, Saur?" The Pokemon grinned and nuzzled his head into Red's leg.

The Pokemon Master then looked back up and smirked. "Alright, Ash. If you think you're good enough then I'll entertain you for a bit long enough."

Ash chuckled at this. He then placed his hand on his next Pokeball. "Ash has forfeited the round which means Greninja is unable to battle!" The referee called out. "You may now choose your..."

"Garchomp, get out there and fight!" The dragon took form and took his stance.

"Alrighty then!" Red yelled. "Saur, start things off with Seed Bomb!"

"Venusaur!" The Pokemon aimed the plant on his back and shot the massive seed in Garchomp's direction.

"Dodge it!" Ash cried.

The dragon looked back at Ash and grinned. Just before the seed hit, Garchimp looked forward, planted himself, and put his arms forward. The attack then hit soon after and sent Garchomp sliding across the battlefield. When he came to a stop the Pokemon looked up and grinned.

"Good job Garchomp!" Ash congratulated his Pokemon. "Now throw it right back!"

The Pokemon roared as he rushed forward and tossed the seed into the air. He then jumped up and spun around as his tail was engulfed in green light. The well-aimed Dragon Tail sent the seed flying at terminal velocity and straight for Venusaur.

"Saur, your not fast enough to dodge that! Brace yourself!"

"Saur!" The Pokemon dug its feet into the ground and clenched his eyes shut. When it hit, the attack sent Venusaur sliding backward a few dozen feet. However, the Pokemon didn't seem to be fazed and he got right back up, dusted himself off in the process.

"Garchomp, follow up with Dragon Claw!" Garchomp roared as his claws became larger and turned a bright green color. As the Pokemon dashed forward, Red gave his counter.

"Venusaur, use Sleep Powder and put him asleep!" Ash smirked at this. This was his plan all along.

"Not this time! Garchomp, use Twister to suck up the powder and send it right back!"

"Garchomp!" The dragon cried as he built up the tornado. The attack became so large that it tugged at people's hats from up in the stands. Garchomp roared once more before sending the tornado straight for Venusaur.

During the storm's rampage, it managed to suck up all of the sleeping powder and hold it in the center. Red knew what Ash was planning, but knew there was nothing he could do about it. Venusaur was just to slow to get out of the way in time.

As the storm drew closer, the plant-like Pokemon was finding it harder and harder to stay planted on the ground. He tried to turn around and run for it, but Vensaur lost his grip and was then sucked up into the tornado.

"Venusaur!" The Pokemon cried out in horror. As he was relentlessly pelted by the chaotic energy terminating from the storm, he began to feel lightheaded as he slowly dozed off.

Once the plan worked, Garchomp canceled out the attack, causing Venasuar to fall from the sky and hit the ground with a loud thud. "Garchomp, finish this with a..."

Suddenly, Venusaur was engulfed by a bright red light and sucked back into his Pokeball. Ash looked up to Red and saw the grin plastered on his face. "Who would have thought a veteran like me could still learn a thing or two from people such as yourself."

Before Ash could respond, The Pokemon Master reached for his belt and brought out his next Pokeball. "Snor, I choose you!"

"Snorlax!" The Pokemon yelled as he took form. "He's massive!" Ash exclaimed. Even the dragon in front of him seemed to be dwarfed in size by the Snorlax.

"Snor, Body Slam now!" The Pokemon, despite its size, managed to rush forward with amazing speed and jump into the air.

"Garchomp, get out of there!" The dragon tried to jump out of the way but his legs were still crushed by the Snorlax

"Garchomp!" He cried out in pain. As Snorlax stood up, Garchomp pulled himself away and struggled to stand back up. The attack had messed up his right leg up pretty badly and he was now held back by a limp.

"Garchomp, are you okay?" The dragon looked over his shoulder and nodded with a small grin plastered on his face. He wasn't going to be taken down that easily.

"Well, you know what they say! The bigger they are, the harder they fall! Garchomp, use Dragon Rush and put him in the dirt!"

"Garchomp!" The Pokemon roared as he rushed forward in a blaze of speed. Purple energy began to quickly build up around him before transforming into the shape of a dragon.

Once again at the speed disadvantage, Red knew he had no choice. "Snor, you have to power through it!"

The Pokemon nodded as he spread his legs out wide and planted himself into the dirt. As Garchomp came closer and closer, Ash felt his breath became more labored.

"What if Snorlax is able to make it through this? Will he be able to make a comeback?" He asked himself. It looks like Ash would just have to wait and see.

Just before Garchomp hit, the dragon formed from the chaotic energy surrounding Garchomp opened its jaws and prepared for the hit. Snorlax closed his eyes as the purple energy clamped down and engulfed him.

Despite his best efforts to stay planted Snorlax was sent flying backward and into the stadium's wall. Garchomp came to a screeching halt and panted heavily. His leg throbbed with pain and Ash could see that it was starting to get to the dragon.

"Come on Garchomp, just a little bit longer!" Ash yelled to his Pokemon. "You can do it!"

As Snorlax slowly got back up, Garchomp growled and snarled in anger. Red looked over to his injured Pokemon and sighed. There was a gamble that needed to be made. Snor was becoming weak and wouldn't win in a brawl against Garchomp due to the dragon's incredible attacking capabilities... unless Red took a risk.

"Snor, use Belly Drum and increase your attack power!" Red yelled. He crossed his fingers as his companion brought his hands up. If this doesn't work and Snorlax goes down due to recoil damage then it was most likely all over for the Pokemon Master.

"Snorlax!" The Pokemon bellowed as he brought his hands down and began to beat his stomach. After just the first couple of hits, the Pokemon fell to his knees and cried out in pain.

"Come on Snor... get up!" The Pokemon looked up to his master and nodded slowly. He then looked back at Garchomp and scowled as closed his eyes and slowly pushed himself back to his feet. As he stood taller and taller a red aura began to build up around him.

Once at his best, Snorlax opened and they began to burn a bright red color as the aura surrounding him suddenly increased in intensity by tenfold.

"That's it Snor! Now finish this with a Giga Impact!" Red cried out in joy.

The Pokemon rushed forward in a blaze of speed and brought his fist forward as he jumped as high into the air as he possibly could. As he began to fall, Snorlax aimed his fist at Garchomp and fire surrounded him as he increased in speed. It was almost like he was falling from space and had just reentered the atmosphere.

"Garchomp!" Ash screamed. "Counter with Fire Blast!"

Garchomp built up the flame in his chest and shot the blast of all-consuming-fire into the air. It hit Snorlax with full force and almost knocked him unconscious. However, the Pokemon was able to fight through it and stare into the dragon's wide-open eyes as the Giga Impact made contact.

The following explosion caused a cloud of dust, smoke, and debris to cover the entire stadium, from the arena to the stands. It was several minutes before the dust finally settled and it revealed that Garchomp was on the ground holding himself up with his hands while Snorlax was standing above him.

"Snor, use..." Suddenly and unexpectedly, Snorlax reached down, grabbed Garchomp by the throat, and lifted him into the air.

"SNOR, LET HIM GO!" Red demanded. The Pokemon was still affected by the Belly Drum from earlier and was still in his fit of rage. Snorlax defied its master and held Garchomp even higher.

As the dragon chocked and struggled to catch his breath, Ash gave his command. "GARCHOMP, USE FLAME THROWER AT POINT BLANK RANGE!"

As the Dragon's face began to turn purple, he built up all the strength he had left and developed the fire in his chest. Right before he was about to blackout, Garchomp unleashed the fiery inferno into Snorlax's face.

The Pokemon cried out in pain as he let go and held his face. Garchomp landed on the ground and gasped for a breathe. He panted as he slowly looked up at the Snorlax angrily standing above him.

Suddenly, Snorlax's hand became enveloped in electricity as he brought his fist back to unleash the most devastating Thunder Punch he could possibly give. Garchomp looked back at the ground and closed his eyes tightly as he braced himself.

"HOLD ON GARCHOMP!" Ash yelled. He reached for his belt and tried to grab Garchomp's Pokeball. However, the belt loop that held the Pokeball in place broke when Ash yanked at it and the Pokeball fell to the ground.

Ash dropped down as quickly as possible to pick it up, and when he did, he looked up in horror as Snorlax was about to unleash the attack. He wouldn't have enough time to react and everyone knew it.

"GARCHOMP!!!" Ash cried out.

As Snorlax brought his fist down, he suddenly stopped himself right before the impact. Garchomp slowly opened his eyes and looked up. Snorlax's eyes returned back to normal and the red aura went away as he stumbled backward.

The Pokemon slowly looked around in both confusion and shame as he fell to the ground and fainted. Ash suddenly rushed forward and dropped to his knees in front of Garchomp. "Oh my Arceus, you're okay!" He cried out in joy.

Suddenly, Garchomp pushed Ash away as he painfully pushed himself off the ground and began standing again. The entire audience broke out into a fit of joyous screams and shouts. Red walked forward and looked up at the dragon as he smiled.

"You fought hard Garchomp. If anyone deserved that win it was you."

Garchomp smiled at this as he took a battle stance. Ash looked up at him and smiled as he grasped the Pokeball in his hand tightly. "You did good buddy, but you're too weak to continue. You've done enough. Now get some rest... you deserve it."

Garchomp looked down and smiled in understanding as he dropped to one knee. Ash extended his arm out and faced the Pokeball toward the dragon. Garchomp then tapped his forehead on the Pokeball and was soon surrounded by the red light that came from it as he was dematerialized and sucked inside.

Ash looked over his shoulder at Red as he stood up and turned to face him. "Looks like this is it."

"Yes, it is." Red extended a hand to the raven-haired trainer. "May the best trainer win."

Ash smiled as he took the Pokemon Master's hand and shook it. "The very best."

The two exchanged smiles as they let go of each other's hands and made their way to the opposite sides of the arena. Ash reached to his belt and grinned.

"It's time for my ace! Charizard, get out there and show them what you're capable of!"

The dragon formed and shot a devastating Flamethrower into the air. Red smirked at this.

"Then I guess it's time for my ace as well! Charizard, take to the skies and fight!" Red tossed out the Pokeball and the red light shot straight into the air. Red's Charizard formed and flew a lap around the arena to the amazement of the audience before landing on the ground in front of his counterpart.

The two stared at each other grunted and snarled as Ash's Charizard dragged his foot through the dirt as a sign of dominance. This didn't sit well with Red's Charizard and he arched his back as he roared into the skies above.

"This is it!" The referee announced. "The moment you have all been waiting for! Charizard vs..."

"WAIT!" Ash yelled as he pulled shirt sleeve up, traveling his mega ring. The audience roared to life as he pressed it.

"Charizard, it's time to give it your all and Mega Evolve!" Ash yelled as the dragon was surrounded by bright lights. Before they disappeared, however, Red had a trick up his sleeve as well.

Red smirked as he pulled up his shirt sleeve and revealed a ring very similar to Ash's. As he pressed it, his Charizard was absorbed by bright lights as well.

"Charizard, harness the power of the dragon and Mega Evolve!" The Pokemon Master screamed.

Both Charizards roared as the lights died down and revealed that they had both finished Mega Evolving. There was something different about Red's Charizard, however. It was black and had blue flames protruding from his mouth and tail.

"UNBELIEVABLE!" The announcer screamed at the top of his lungs. "THIS IS WILL BE THE BATTLE OF THE AGES! A BATTLE TO FINALLY PROVE WHO WOULD WIN IN A BRAWL! MEGA CHARIZARD X..." The announcer pointed toward Red's Charizard. "OR..." He then pointed to Ash's. "MEGA CHARIZARD Y! REFEREE, TAKE IT AWAY!"

"Are you ready?" The referee asked Red for the second time that night. Once again, he simply nodded.

"Are you..." Before the referee could finish speaking, Charizard roared into the air as he stomped the ground.

"I would say yes... yes I am!" Ash answered with a smirk.

"Then let the battle... COMMENCE!!!"

"Charizard, take to the skies!" Red demanded. As Charizard X opened his wings and soared into the air, Charizard Y followed suit.

"Charizard, use Fire Fang!" Ash yelled. As Charizard Y soared toward Charizard X and opened his fiery mouth, Red gave his counter.

"Charizard, dodge and counter with Wing Attack!"

The dragon roared as he darted to the left, narrowly avoiding Charizard Y in the process, and cut into the Pokemon's back with his white glowing wings. However, Charizard Y was able to correct himself extremely quickly and was soon trailing behind Charizard X.

"Charizard, use Flamethrower!" Ash yelled.

As Charizard Y took aim and began to build up the flames in his chest, Red gave his next command. 

"Charizard, turn around and counter with your own Flamethrower!" The Pokemon Master screamed.

As Charizard X whipped around and quickly built up the flames in his chest, the two Pokemon exchanged a quick glance before unleashing the devastating attacks.

Blue met red in an explosion of flames that resulted in blowing both dragons away from each other. The heat from the fire was so intense that most of the audience had to look away and cover their faces to keep from being burned.

As the two Pokemon regathered themselves, their trainers gave them their next orders.

"Charizard, use Thunder Punch!" Red yelled.

"Charizard, use Flare Blitz!" Ash screamed.

Charizard X roared loudly as electricity built up around his fist, while Charizard Y built up flames around his body and shot forward in a blaze of speed. The two dragons stared into each other's eyes with nothing but pure grit and determination as they clashed together in the sky.

The two attacks melded together and caused an explosion of electricity and fire to surround both Pokemon. for a few seconds, neither could be seen until Charizard Y was seemingly thrown out of the cloud and into the ground.

Charizard tried desperately to get up before the inevitable happened, but Red's Charizard was just to fast to react in time. "Charizard, use Dragon Rush!" A bright purple could be seen inside the smoke cloud right before Charizard X came soaring straight down, aimed straight for Charizard Y.

"Charizard, you have to move!" Ash told him. It was no use however and the chaotic purple energy soon consumed Charizard entirely, resulting in a cloud of dust and debris to cover the battlefield.

"No..." Ash whispered.

He looked to his right and noticed Misty was staring at him. She seemed to be extremely upset and had tears in her eyes. However, Ash could only smile. Even though he didn't win, not everyone gets the ability to say that they faced the Pokemon Master and got down to his last Pokemon.

Ash looked down to his side and grabbed Charizard's Pokeball. He was about to recall him when he heard a familiar sound. He looked up and noticed that the cloud of dust hadn't settled yet and there seemed to be a struggle going on within.

"Charizard?" Ash questioned.

Suddenly, Charizard X came soaring out of the cloud, dissipating it in the process, and slammed into the stadiums wall. He slid down and put a fist in the dirt as he looked up and growled. Ash looked back to where the dust cloud had been and there stood his Charizard.

Red's eyes shot open wide as a smile made its way to his face. "No Pokemon has ever taken a hit like that from Charizard. Then again... this is clearly no regular Pokemon."

Ash grinned at this as he looked back at his Charizard. The dragon looked at its master and smirked as he opened his wings and soared into the air.

"Alright, Charizard!" Ash put up a fist as he yelled. "Get in close and use Air Slash!"

Charizard Y roared as he swooped down low and brought his claws in close as they glowed a bright white color. Red looked on at his own Charizard and gave his counter attack.

"Charizard, use Dragon Claw!"

The Pokemon stood up and began to run at full speed as he brought his green glowing to his side. Both dragons brought their claws forward and roared with all their might as they clashed together.

Charizard X was on the ground blocking every incoming attack, while Charizard Y flew circles around him trying to find a weakness. As the brawl was in full swing, Ash looked over and could see Misty mouthing something to him.

"You can do it, Ash! I believe in you!"

Ash grinned from ear to ear as he looked back at the fight. Suddenly, he found the opponent's weakness. "Charizard, use your tail and take his feet out from underneath him!"

After Charizard Y swooped down and clashed against Charizard X's claws once more, his tail glowed bright green as he used Dragon Tail to trip the dragon. Charizard X fell backward, but just before he hit the ground, Charizard Y grabbed him by the legs.

Misty smirked at this as she nudged Brock in the side. "I think we both know what's about to happen."

Before Brock could answer, Ash gave his order. "Charizard, use Seismic Toss!"

Charizard X looked up at Charizard Y as he grinned down at him. Charizard Y then opened his wings and took off from the ground so fast that it sent dust flying across the battlefield and into the stands.

"Look at him go!" Misty screamed. "I've never seen him fly so fast before!"

Brock looked on in disbelief as a smile crept its way to his face. "I guess he never had to until now."

Within seconds, Charizard was already miles above the stadium and almost out of view completely. Thought he know Charizard couldn't hear him, Ash felt like he had to say it.

"CHARIZARD, PUT HIM INTO THE DIRT!" Seemingly on queue, Charizard Y looked his rival in his arms and began his descent. Charizard's speed seemed to have no limit and he soon broke the sound barrier.

The sound echoed for miles and was so loud that it shook the stadium. Red looked up in horror. There was no way his Charizard was going to be able to hear him. He closed his eyes and took in a deep breath. It was all up to Charizard X to break free.

As Charizard X struggled to break free, Charizard Y kept him locked in place. Suddenly, the dragon felt a sharp pain in his shoulder. His opponent had bit into his shoulder and wouldn't let go.

The ground was coming fast and if Charizard Y couldn't get him off then they were both going to be in a world of trouble. The Pokemon took in a deep breath and built up flames in his chest before firing it into Charizard X's face.

It hurt like hell, but Red's Charizard still refused to unlatch his jaws. Ash and Red looked on in shock as the two Pokemon hit the ground with such force that it sent them both flying back and into the wall.

"ASH!!!" Misty screamed as she jumped down into the arena and rushed to his side. Ash slowly opened his eyes and pushed himself off the ground. He got to his knees as Misty slid to a stop and dropped to hers in front of him.

She grasped him by the cheeks as she lightly sobbed. "Are you okay!? Are you hurt!?"

Ash chuckled as he leaned in and brought her into a hug. "I'm okay, Mist."

He then pulled away and looked out to the center of the arena. It was still surrounded by dust and couldn't be seen. As Ash continued to stare into the cloud of debris, he noticed a finger running their way.

When it got close enough Ash recognized who it was. "Ash, are you alright?" Red questioned as he dropped to one knee.

"I'm fine Red. I should be asking you the same. We both hit the wall pretty hard." Red nodded as he looked over his shoulder.

"I'm more worried about them myself. They hit the ground hard."

Ash looked down at Misty and pushed her away slightly so he could stand up. Once on his feet, he extended a hand to the redhead and pulled her up as well. "Well... there's only one way to find out."

As the three walked into the cloud seemed to die down with each step they took. Suddenly, a massive crater came into view. Ash stopped and took in a deep breath. He was thinking the absolute worse, but how are you not going to in that kind of situation.

Suddenly right before Ash was about to take a step closer, A hand grasped the edge of the crater. It was orange.

"CHARIZARD!" Ash screamed.

He ran to the edge and grasped Charizard by the hand. He tried to pull him up by himself but was not strong enough.

"A little help please." Ash grunted.

Misty and Red rushed to his side as they both wrapped their hands around Ash. "On three." Ash began. "One... two... THREE!"

As the crowd watched, the trio pulled the dragon out of the pit. However, they noticed something. He was holding something. It looked like... ANOTHER HAND!

The trio went to work pulling Red's Charizard out of the hole as well, while Charizard forced himself off the ground. He soon transformed back to normal and turned around. He made his way to the edge and pushed them out of the way. He then grabbed his rival's hand and started to pull.

Charizard didn't have a lot of strength left, but whatever he did have he put into this. Slowly but surely the dragon pulled the other out of the pit and quickly made sure he was okay.

Red walked up and placed a hand on his companion's head. "Is he..."

Suddenly, Red's Charizard looked up and snuggled into his chest. Red grinned down at his Pokemon as he went to sleep in his arms. Red then looked up to Ash's Charizard and smiled.

"Thank you so much."

Charizard looked down and smiled back as the crowd broke out onto a roar. Suddenly, the announcer's voice echoed through the speakers.

"He's done it!" He exclaimed. "He has beaten Red! Everyone, give a round of applause to the new Pokemon Master... AAAAASH KETCHUUUUUUM!!!"

Ash looked up into the crowd and felt the biggest smile come to his face as the crowd roared his name. He then looked to his side and noticed Misty was looking at him crying.

He turned her way and wrapped his arms around her. "You did it, Ash." She whispered.

"And now I'm all yours." Ash stated with a smile.

Misty giggled at this as they both slowly leaned in and came together for a kiss. The crowd only seemed to get louder at the sight of this. As they kissed, Red stood up and recalled Charizard into his ball.

He then turned around and began to walk away. Before he left the arena, however, he stopped and looked over his shoulder one last time as a single tear ran down his cheek. 

"That's my boy." He whispered as he turned around once more and walked away.

As Misty and Ash pulled away for air, they couldn't help but stare into each other's eyes and smile. Ash immediately noticed the absence of Red, but before he could question it, all of his other friends ran up to him and brought him into a group hug.

"I knew you could do it!" Brock exclaimed.

"Good job, Ash! That was an incredible battle!" Dawn said.

"We're so proud of you, Ash!" May yelled giddily.

Ash pulled out of the hug and chuckled. "Thank you, guys. I couldn't have done it without..." Ash paused when he noticed that someone was missing.

"Where's Mom?" Ash questioned. The gang looked around but there was no sign of her.

"May, didn't you say that she went outside for some air?" Misty questioned.

"Yeah, but that was early in the battle. She should be back by now."

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As Red walked through the tunnel leading out of the stadium, he couldn't help but think that this would be the last time he did this. Then again... he was okay with that. Especially considering who he lost to.

As he saw the light at the end of the tunnel, he noticed a figure of a person standing at the end. Once he got close enough to see who it was, he came to a stop as tears started to stream down his face.

The mysterious woman called out to him. "It's you... isn't it?"

Red looked at the floor in shame before answering. "Yes, Delia... it's me."

Delia walked up to him slowly before stopping right in front of him. Red started to say something until Delia slapped him across the face.

"HOW COULD YOU JUST LEAVE ME AND ASH LIKED THAT!!! I THOUGHT YOU WERE FUCKING DEAD FOR ARCEUS' SAKE!!!" Delia screamed.

Red took a second before Answering. "I had no choice, Delia."

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU HAD NO CHOICE!?!? YOU ALWAYS HAVE A FUCKING CHOICE!!! AND YOU CHOSE TO ABANDON YOUR WIFE AND CHILD!!!"

Suddenly, Red grasped Delia by the shoulders. "I did not abandon you! Team Rocket forced me to stay away! If they found out that I had gone back to you then they would have killed you both!

"Why did you start working with them in the first place?" Delia questioned as tears streamed down her face.

"I didn't know what they were capable of at the time. They made me do horrible things, Delia. Things that I still have nightmares about to this very day. If I would have returned to you two then it would have brought all of that to your doorstep." Red explained.

"Then why didn't you come home after they fell? Ash and the authorities took down Team Rocket years ago. Why didn't you return to us... to me?"

Red looked at the ground and sighed. "I thought it was too late."

Delia huffed. "It wouldn't have been then... but now... you're probably right about that."

Delia then pulled out of his grasp and began to walk back into the stadium. Suddenly, she stopped and turned back around. "You do know that our son is getting married right?"

Red smiled. "Yes, I do. She's gorgeous and I can tell she loves him. You know, it's funny. I didn't think Ash would be the type to like redheads."

They both chuckled uncomfortably at this. "I know a lot more than just that you know. I've kept an eye on you both for years."

"Then you know that he's happier now than he's ever been before. So stay the fuck away from him. He doesn't deserve to have his entire world turned upside down over you." She warned him.

"Delia... you don't expect me to miss my son's wedding do you?"

Delia scoffed at this as she turned around and began to walk away. "Why shouldn't you? You missed everything else."

Red felt whatever remanded of his heart shatter to pieces after this. He rushed up to Delia, turned her around, and placed a kiss on her lips.

She started to pull away but soon found herself getting caught in a trance and returning it. After a few seconds, Red pulled away and rested his forehead on Delia's. Delia could feel his tears hitting her cheeks.

"I'm so sorry, Delia. You don't realize how badly I missed you and Ash. Please... just... give me a second chance."

Delia slowly pulled away and wiped the tears from her cheeks. "I mourned for you! I grieved for years, Ashton! I named our son after you just because it made me feel like I was with you once again! And now... here you are... alive and asking for another chance when there was never one to give."

Delia began to walk away again but he stopped her. "Please, Delia. All I'm asking for is a shot. Despite what you may think... my love for you never went away."

Delia reached up and wiped the tears from her eyes once again. "I never said that I stopped loving you. You hurt me, Ashton. I was lost without you. It took me years to finally be at peace and... I just don't know if things would ever be the same."

Red placed his hands on her shoulders. "Isn't it worth a shot?"

Delia looked into his eyes and sighed. "Look... I'll give you a chance... BUT ASH DOESN'T HEAR A SINGLE WORD ABOUT THIS UNTIL I'M READY! DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME!?"

Red smiled as he brought her into a hug. "I do. Thank you so much, Delia. I love you so much."

Delia continued to stare into his eyes as a small and warming smile shot across her face. "I... love you too."

Delia leaned and planted a quick kiss on his lips before turning around. Before leaving, she looked over her shoulder and smiled. "How am I supposed to get ahold of you?"

Red smiled as he slipped his hands into his pockets and turned around to walk away. "I remember where the house is. I'll come to you."

Delia turned back around and began to walk back into the stadium. The biggest smile was plastered on her face as she entered the arena.

Ash saw and immediately ran up to her. "Where the hell have you been?"

The smile on Delia's face became even larger as a small blush shot across her face. "I was just... catching up with an old friend. Besides..." She pointed behind Ash. "I think you have better things to worry about."

Ash turned around and was immediately enveloped into a hug. "I'm so proud of you, Ash. I knew you could do it." Misty whispered it his ear.

Ash pulled away and stared into her Cerulean eyes. "Now comes the best part about winning." Misty grinned as her cheeks became a dark shade of crimson.

"And what might that be?" She questioned.

Ash smiled as he leaned in. He stopped only a few inches away from Misty's lips. "You."

Misty giggled for a second before leaning in for those last few inches and planting her lips on Ash's.

Oh my gosh that took forever! I've been working on this for the past few days and the product came out fantastic! I hope ya'll enjoyed it. 1 more chapter people! Also, I wanted to say that I have an announcement to make at the end of the last chapter so please stick around for that. I'll talk to yall in the next one. Peace!