Hard Enough

Lets rock Electrode! shouted Surge as his third pokemon took to the field.

Electrode landed and whirled into a fast spin, then it locked eyes on the hovering Alakazam. Electricity started to spark up as the electrode twitched and rocked back and forth.

Pass over! snapped Surge, causing his pokemon to accelerate.

Will shot his hand up. Barrier! he said. A thin rectangle of energy formed up in front of his pokemon.

Electrode flashed forward, only to pass next to the barrier. The sparks that it was letting off were washed against the barrier and then passed through it to zap Alakazam.

Alakazam twitched and cried out before swinging its arms down. Will narrowed his eyes. A deception? You werent aiming at my pokemon but seeking to paralyze it?

Surge smirked. Line up again for another pass! he ordered. Electrode slowed. It then started spinning and causing more and more lightning to build up around itself, all while remaining still.

Surge leaned forward, and Will huffed. Im not falling for that again, he said, snapping his fingers.

His Alazakam crossed its spoons, and a small shield of psychic energy appeared in front of it before vanishing. I narrowed my eyes.

Was that Magic Coat? I asked Sabrina.

She nodded. Surge will need to be careful; moves such as Thunderwave, and Eerie Impulse, which he just used, will now bounce back on him. Sabrina eyed Surge. Not that we need to worry about that; it seems he has a plan.

I flicked my eyes over the sparking up Electrode that had lined itself up onto Alakazam.

It was sparking angrily now, with a circle of electrical energy lancing off it every moment. I could also just make out a small sheen of energy that denoted that Electrode had used Light Screen.

Roll Out! barked Surge. Electrode rocketed ahead.

Take control, Will said lazily.

His pokemon gestured and psychic energy grasped around Electrode lifting it up, but instead of stopping it in its tracks, it kept on rolling like it had hit a bump and launched itself upwards.

What?! said Will in shock

Foul Play now! Surge said and his pokemon leered down at the shocked Alakazam.

His soaring Electrode suddenly became like a black hole, the shift from light to dark causing me to blink in surprise as the mass of darkness shifted and arced down towards Alakazam.

Tch Tele Will started to say, only for his pokemon to twitch but fail at the action. Instead, it stood and took the hit, staggering thanks to it.

Keep up the pressure! roared Surge, his voice booming out over the battlefield.

Electrode continued rolling forward. This time, electrical energy was unleashed from within, and Alakazam was blown backward.

Teleport! said Will just as his pokemon hit the back wall. Instantly, his pokemon did so, teleporting in a flash to the other side and closer to Surge.

Electrode hit the wall where it had been a moment later. This time it was Surges turn to click his tongue.

Recover! Will growled. Alakazam hovered upward, and any signs of battle damage vanished a moment later. It brandished its spoons and stepped into a fighting pose.

Boost it! said Surge. His pokemon whirled about and charged back in close.

Put it down! Will said sharply.

His pokemon began to raise and lower the spoons in a circular pattern that sent rings of psychic energy towards the charging in Electrode. It seemed it was picking up more and more charge with each moment it was moving.

It once more slammed into a barrier that Will had his pokemon raise, only for it to ricochet off. I glanced at Surge but saw that he wasnt at all bothered. If anything, he seemed happy for his pokemon to be sent careening off like it had.

I inspected the field and saw it sparking with small flashes of light that kept building up and being discharged.

Is Surge charging up his pokemon by having it on the Electric Terrain? I asked.

The Vermillion Gym trainer near us laughed. Nice pickup! Its a fairly standard set-up for surge during tougher matches but it doesnt get used all that often. It works well though, as some pokemon can take charge or give charge to the field.

A small fact about alternators in cars rose to the front of my mind. Or if they move around enough and switch up, they can charge and use energy.

An alternating current was created by his pokemons movements. Electrode would naturally be able to do this, Sabrina said, understanding what I was getting. Surge has both empowered electrical types, but the longer he fights on the field and has his pokemon moving around, the better it is for him.

The man whistled. Oh! Dang, you two are sharp! Not many people know that about electricity.

I read, said Sabrina.

The man blinked as though not understanding how that could equate to understanding how electrical systems could operate. I held in a chuckle. The man most likely either picked up on it in a lecture from Surge or from an electrician.

Give him the roper dope, Electrode! Make him swing at nothing but air! Surge commanded, causing his pokemon to suddenly take off, zigzagging across the field.

I hummed. Surge was playing it a bit too cavalierly for my liking. I had some wider experienceswhat with owning cars in my past life and having the alternator die enough times to understand its importance in battery lifebut that didnt mean people like Will couldnt work out what he was doing. Especially with Surge practically rubbing it in his face.

For all that Will was a horrible person, he sadly wasnt an idiot.

If youre going to play games like this then Will started to only for his pokemon to twitch as psychic energy built up.

I flicked my eyes around to find Electrode rocking back and forth in the corner furiously with a dark look on its face. It stuck its tongue out and twirled around to show its backside, or what passed for such with an Electrode to Alakazam.

Alakazam did not look pleased. It unleashed a Psybeam straight at Electrode only for the other pokemon to dodge.

Surge barked a laugh. Ha! You thought I was just going to let you buff up your pokemon? How about a big fat no! he said.

Surge then laughed. Time to cook your Farfetchd punk! Electrode close it in!

Electrode shot forward only to get right up to the barrier. Only this time it stopped on a dime and rocked back and forth with a sherry grin on its face. It then lit up.

Will gasped. Surge laughed. Explosion! he shouted, only for another bright light to flash outwards from his pokemon.

I shook off the Flash a moment later. Something was wrong. Thered been a lot of light but no noise? I blinked and tilted my head. People around the stadium murmured, only to gasp when they took in the state of the field.

It was untouched. Electrode was still on it, merrily rocking back and forth, while Wills Alakazam was locked behind a Protect.

I laughed as Surge grinned and crossed his arms. I told you boy! I saw you flinch! he announced.

Will gritted his teeth and leaned forward. I knew the moment the Protect was dropped, hed try something. The shell fell, and Alakazam started to glow, but Surge wasnt about to give up his prize.

Boom Baby, he said simply.

This time his Electrode detonated with all its built-up charge. Electrical energy and debris shot outward, slamming into the barriers and pylons. This time, peoples screams of fear were lost in the noise.

When the smoke cleared up enough to see the field, Electrode was knocked out, but so was Alakazam.

Ha! Booyah! Gotcha strongest! taunted Surge with a fist pump.

Will returned his pokemon and glowered across at Surge. You will regret doing that.

Regret it? Fuck nah! Im feeling even better about it now that you spoke up! Heh! Whats the matter? You tried to shit a shitter and found your own pants full of crap? Surge said manically.

I facepalmed as Sabrina snorted softly. Eloquent as always, Surge, she said.

Fucken A he is! said the trainer, who now had a notepad out and was furiously writing down Surges words.

I felt like facepalming harder.

Sabrina shook her head and sighed. I will patrol the area to link up with Koga and Janine. I got the feeling she was worried that Surges idiocy was catching.

Oh, Koga is around? I hadnt I shook my head. Im not sure why I expected him to pop up and say hello.

I hovered in a half-sitting position for a moment. Want me to come along? I asked.

Sabrina considered that before shaking her head. If we detect anything, you may need to capture Will. I suspect Will may be put under pressure now that he has lost his Alakazam.

I sat down at that. Right, makes sense.

I turned my attention back to the match. I noted that the Electric Terrain had dwindled and that Will was waiting out his minute before tossing out his next pokemon. Surge had tossed out Jolteon once again, and this was working rather well for him as the previously confused pokemon was now looking much more settled.

Will held his nerve as the countdown began, only for him to flick out his pokeball with three seconds to go.

A few in the crowd booed the act, while others gasped in surprise when they realised Will had sent out an Espeon against Surges Jolteon.

It was a battle of the eeveelutions. I could see a number of commentators proclaiming it already.

Surge narrowed his eyes at the perceived challenge, while Will raised his chin in challenge. Espeon, perhaps at Wills urging, sat and raised its front paw to lick it indolently.

Hit em, said Surge flatly. This time, his pokemon blurred across the distance.

You never learn, said Will as a Protect came up to block Jolteon. Jolteon almost slammed into it, only to kick off at the last moment and sail up into the air as it jumped.

Will gasped as Jolteon arced overhead and landed behind the barrier. Its spikes were already twitching forward like missile turrets. I could clearly see what Surge had in mind.

As soon as the barrier dropped, Espeon was nailed with Pin Missiles that swept forward. BLOW EM AWAY! urged Surge. Jolteon closed in, its spikes blasting away.

Espeon rolled itself backward, hissing as it righted itself. Then it sort of blurred, and I got the impression it moved backwards for a moment, only to blink and find it standing in a guarded position. That had been odd.

Jolteon righted itself on the stationary pokemon and laid into it, only for the Espeon to not stumble back from what should have been a super-effective move. Instead, it shimmered and broke apart.

From the side, Espeon suddenly appeared with its paw lashing out. Mud flew up into Jolteons face and made it stagger to the side in surprise.

What the!? said Surge before glaring. Substitute eh?

Indeed, said Will, turning himself so that he was sideways. I wasnt going to merely allow my pokemon to be beaten down like that! Espeon performed another Mudslap, only for Surge to whistle and his pokemon to blur out of danger.

Jolteon then furiously tried to wipe away the mud from its eyes. Cheeky, commented Surge.

He cracked his neck from side to side. Jolteon! Charge up the field again! Electric Terrain!

Recover your strength, Espeon; I shall be needing you, said Will as his pokemon simmered before stepping back and vanishing in another Baton Pass. Come out, Claydol! ordered Will with another pokeball rose.

The Claydol emerged and swivelled on the spot, its various eyes surveying the battlefield, only to lock onto Jolteon.

Surge clicked his tongue. Return! Go Lanturn! he said, not hesitating to send out another pokemon that landed on the ground. I whistled in surprise. Id been expecting his Magenzone.

Then I reconsidered that match-up. Magenzone would only be a stall-out option. It wouldn't have better odds with its steel-electric moves while being spared of any Earthquakes.

Aqua Ring! Surge shouted straight away.

Earthquake! said Will with a chop of his hand. His Claydol slammed a limb into the ground and caused the battlefield to rumble.

Lanturn completed its move just in time to be lightly shaken about. It took me a moment to register that Surge had used the Aqua Ring as a buffer to the ground. Instead of having his pokemon in direct contact, it was now being supported by a pair of tightly wound hoops of water that raised it up.

It would have been enough to weaken the otherwise super-effective move, and it would passively heal Lanturn. It did nothing to stop the Electric Terrain from sparking up into Lanturn however.

And if Lanturn had Volt Absorb Oh, that was clever of Surge, his pokemon would get the benefits of Aqua Ring, and Volt Absorb, potentially keeping it in the battle much longer than it should be able to.

I swept my gaze back to Will. Would it be clever enough, however?

Tch! Spin up and start moving! Will urged his pokemon.

Claydol started to spin like a marionette and soon began sweeping itself around the battlefield. This was shown to be a good call, as Surge had his Lanturn unleash multiple Hydro Pumps in reply.

Suddenly, the air was full of so many watery attacks that you would have been mistaken to think this was the Cerulean Gym that Will had challenged.

Each blast hit the ground and caused huge gouges to be carved out. Despite the misses, Surge began to mount pressure on Will by forcing Claydol to be unable to advance.

The Claydol had to spin through a number of small ponds that formed after barely a minute.

Will held his cool, however, and when Lanturn finally let up the barrage, his Claydol sank into the ground.

I swore, well aware that hed just had his pokemon use Dig.

Do a kickflip with your tail! ordered Surge.

Lanturn slapped its tail and launched itself into the air, only for Claydol to emerge from the ground. I had to admire the utility of Dig with a trainer that didnt need to stick to verbal commands. You direct it without having to worry about where it would end up.

I almost wanted to call it cheating, but that was a perk of being psychic, I suppose. I just made do with training.

Claydol spun through the air and into the still-falling Lanturn.

Will made a clutching gesture with his hand. Lanturn froze in mid-air; I noted that with Claydols positioning, it couldnt turn its head and fire off another Hydro Pump while the Claydol was stationary.

Lanturn was then slammed directly into the ground, causing the Aqua Rings to break apart due to the hit. It still gamely rose up and opened its mouth.

This time, however, when Claydol stomped its limb into the ground, shards of earth rose up and slammed into Lanturn, knocking it upwards.

Hydro Pump! barked Surge, causing his pokemon which was still hanging in by the thread of its teeth, to fire out another blast of water.

This time it nailed Claydol and rocked the pokemon onto its back, where it had to sweep itself up with what looked like Telekinesis.

Surf! ordered Surge, making his pokemon rise up with a respectable wave. It wasnt as large as the waves that could be generated at a League battlefield or even my own, but it was enough to sweep the entire field.

Fall back! Will ordered his pokemon.

I sat up with interest, it seemed Surge had him on the back foot!

Will retreated his Claydol as far as he could and was about to step out of bounds with the wave close to collapsing on him when he gave the next order.

Protect! he said with a grin.

Tch! Surge and I said at the same time.

The Surf swept over the shell without hurting the pokemon within. When the water fell away, it revealed a battlefield that was much damper with all the water attacks. It almost looked swampish, with a few furrows from earlier Hydro Pumps now being small ponds. That might make future water-type moves easier but I knew of a few pokemon Will could call on.

So it seemed to be a sequence of events that would better be utilised by Will unless Surge was laying a trap?

Earth Power! Will said as his pokemon stomped a foot. This caused Lanturn to once again be knocked around, but thanks to the damper environment, it didnt seem to do as much as it should have. I had to give it to Lanturn; it was holding out rather well with the Electric Terrain having run its course and no more Aqua Rings; it was proving itself durable.

Claydol then spun its entire body and charred forward into the still-recovering Lanturn to slam its entire body into the water pokemon. Lanturn cried out and was hurled off the battlefield, where it went limp.

Will raised three fingers to Surge to remind him of the score as his Claydol moved back to his side of the field. Surge snorted and considered the field.

I glanced over it as well. The biggest point of interest to me was how Will had positioned his Claydol in the midst of a trio of puddles that formed the points of a rather uneven triangle. The small dips would probably slow up a pokemons charge but it wasnt an insurmountable wall to climb.

It would be a minor inconvenience, if anything.

Go Raichu! Surge yelled, hurling out his starter.

Instantly, the crowd stood and roared their approval as Raichu dropped into a low position with his cheeks sparking up.

Chu! said the lightning mouse.

I leaned forward in anticipation of what was about to come, only to be surprised when Sabrina returned to sit next to me.

Whats going on? I asked her. She looked frustrated.

Nothing is going on, she said with a tightly controlled expression.

I raised an eyebrow at her, and she exhaled heavily through her nostrils. The issue is that Will is too in control of the match. He might have lost his Alakazam thanks to Surges tactics, but he doesnt appear to feel pressured enough that he needs Rockets support with their Legendary, she whispered lowly to me.

I grimaced and glanced at the score. At three to one, it was a bit one-sided. Will had used Mr Mime, Espeon, Claydol, and Alakazam, but apart from Alakazam, he hadnt lost any of them. Weakened? Yes, but not out of the fight.

Unlike Electrode, Ampharos, and now Lanturn.

On the battlefield, Raichu streaked across it faster and faster. It seemed like Surge was going for speed with his pokemon. Will on the other hand, had his pokemon hunker down with how it earthed itself, digging into the ground but remaining with the top of its body slightly exposed.

Thats got to be a trap, right? I said to Sabrina, indicating the battle.

Sabrina nodded. Oh, its most definitely a trap.

I clicked my teeth as Surge had his pokemon line up on the Claydol. Surge punched his fist forward, and Raichu accelerated. Will snapped his fingers, and psychic energy wrapped around Raichu, only for it to unleash a blast of electricity to overcome the Psychic.

It hit the point between the puddles, only to stop on a dime. Surge grinned. Dont try and shit a shitter! Raichu curled a fist and unleashed a powerful Focus Blast from as close as it could.

Will clicked his tongue, and his pokemon vanished with Teleport behind Raichu.

Future Sight Army boy! taunted Will with a shake of his finger. Claydol lashed out and smacked Raichu into what now revealed itself to be a very steep sand trap.

Surge narrowed his eyes only to snort derisively. Yeah, sand might be annoying, but it aint enough to stop us. Raichu! BRING THE LIGHTNING!

Raichu curled in on itself, and I had a momentary premonition before the small lightning rat unleashed everything. A thunderous boom rocked the stadium as lightning, which consumed everything on the battlefield, erupted from Raichu.

While everyones eyesight was returning to them, I caught sight of Raichu leaping off a glassed battlefield straight at Claydol. It spun itself in a tightly controlled arc with its tail whipping around behind it, only for the tail to lash out and strike the Claydol on the head, sending it soaring backwards.

BOOYAH! Brick Break to the face, little man! You see that coming, huh?! Thats what I thought! You got one of them weak chins! Surge said.

Raichu landed and drew in deep lungfuls of air. It seemed that unleashing all of that electrical energy had taken a lot out of it.

Claydol rose unsteadily, its joints twitching spasmodically, with Will glaring at Surge. Hmmm your starter is strong; I wouldnt have thought youd escape my Sand Tomb trap by glassing it You are not just a loud brute, it would seem Surge. Will inclined his head.

Surge snorted. Big whoop! Raichu! Close in again!

Psychic, Will said.

Once again, Raichu struggled as it was raised upward. Raichu once again unleashed a torrent of electricity to break the other pokemons grip, but this time it wasnt strong enough.

Will flicked his hand to the side, and Raichu sailed into the wall, where it shook itself off and rose up.

Raichu Double Team! Surge ordered to get his pokemon out of danger.

Will sighed theatrically as a small cluster of Raichu appeared. He then flicked his hand upwards, and the Raichus all lurched upwards only to break up and reveal Raichu, who struggled only to be hurled to the side once more.

Despite the heavy hit, Raichu rose up on all fours. Will sniffed. You should recall your pokemon, we all know how this will end now Surge. I have your measure.

Surge glared. Nasty Plot! he said. His pokemon took on dark energy around it, breaking the hold.

Will clicked his tongue in annoyance. Yes, dark energy, how quaint. Earth Power, he said causing spikes to shoot up and knock Raichu skyward.

Will made to make the sweeping gesture again, but Surge wasnt going to let that keep playing out.

Hyper Beam! he bellowed, causing Raichu to snap its head up, lock onto Claydol and unleash an attack.

Will gasped at that. Match it! he shouted. Claydol leaned back and raised its own arms up to unleash a beam, and both Hyper Beams slammed into each other, causing a shockwave to rock the battlefield.

When the dust cleared, I sighed as Raichu was revealed, face down and straining to stand but unable to.

Some of Surges team are more durable than I would expect of their species, Sabrina said having returned.

The gym trainer nodded. Yeah Surge only has a few that are from when he fought that are still around, but theres a world of difference between them.

I nodded at that. It made sense that pokemon that had gone through that would be tougher than modern competitive pokemon. On the field, Surge returned his pokemon with a frown and a few whispered words to the pokeball that I couldnt make out.

From the other side, Claydol teetered precariously from side to side, but Will made no move to return it. A stir went through the crowd at this, and Surge narrowed his eyes before selecting another pokeball.

Lets go Magnezone! Surge shouted.

Will merely nodded his head, and a moment later his pokemon vanished in a Teleport to appear right on top of Magnezone.

Ah, you cocksucker! swore Surge a moment before Will made a flowering gesture with his hands.

Claydol exploded, and once more, a gigantic boom rocked the Vermillion stadium.

People screamed and stood to see what had happened.

It took a few seconds for the dust to clear, but I sighed in relief when Surge was revealed unharmed. I punched the air when his Magenzone was likewise shown with a protective shell around it.

Cute try, you lily-livered asshole! Surge shook his head in annoyance. "You think youre the first to try and sucker-punch old Surge?

Surge cracked his neck from side to side, causing his neck to pop. Alright, four to two, huh? he said, glancing up at the projected match score. Im gonna have to dig deep!

Hmmm, well, I thought there would be certain poetry to it, Will said with a smirk. My turning your own tactics against you, no?

Surge snorted. Now, Im a mans man, but the poetry youre trying to peddle right there? Thats the shit I wouldnt wipe my backside with! Surge said.

You tell him Surge! said one of his fans, standing and punching the air.

On his podium, Will put a hand to his mask and shook his head. Your resistance is commendable but I shall be the victor today, Surge. He selected a pokeball and whipped it forward. Go Medicham!

The pokemon hed used against me first appeared with light feet, bouncing back and forth. It locked its focus on Magnezone as Surge straightened up. With a pokemon that wasnt as well known for its psychic prowess or a type advantage against him, I knew Surge could smell blood.

Set your sights! bellowed Surge as the magnets on the Magnezone swivelled forth onto Medicham, who was already sprinting towards the hovering electric type.

A red reticule appeared in the centre eye, which I knew meant that Lock On had been used.

Detect! barked Will, only for his face to blanche at whatever information was being fed to him by his link to Medicham. Jum he started to say as his pokemon leapt, only for Magnezone to unleash a torrent of lightning that lanced forth and struck Medicham out of the air.

Zap Cannon! roared Surge.

The fighting-psychic type slammed into the ground and rolled over itself before kipping up into a standing position. It then kneeled with a cry of pain. Will clicked his tongue and returned his pokemon.

It looks like hes rushing, trying to end this quickly, I said.

Sabrina flicked her eyes between the two combatants. Both of them have made a number of mistakes, but they have also led each other into traps that have either worked or backfired. Surge may still be able to win if Will fumbles. With Espeon and now Medicham injured, the score is a technical four to four.

That left Will to reveal his last pokemon.

Go Espeon! Will shouted, revealing a pokemon that was already limping from its earlier battle with Jolteon.

Lock on again! barked Surge, causing his pokemon to once again go through the setup for the release of Zap Cannon. This time I expected it, and I saw the shimmer and overlap of bodies as Espeon performed Substitute.

Surge saw that, right? I said, glancing up at the television screen, hoping for Surge to be smirking, but there was only a look of intense focus on his face.

Thunderwave! barked Surge, sweeping his hand wide. Magnezone, instead of firing off the much anticipated Zap Cannon, fired a broad wave of lightning that crackled and sparked. I expected to see either a cat-like pokemon jump over it, or be caught and zapped to reveal itself.

The Substitute shimmered as the electric wave washed over it, but there was nothing else beyond the lack of reaction from the mirage that had been left behind by the Espeon.

The crowd gasped in shock, and Surge narrowed his eyes, looking around.

When no disruptions to the ground beyond the earlier gouges were present, he flicked his eyes upwards but there wasnt anything out of the ordinary.

Is your pokemon within the boundary of this battlefield punk? Surge said heatedly.

Will smiled coyly. Oh? You mean I slipped that one past you? I assure you, theyre right where I need them to be.

Sabrina sighed, and I glanced at her. Where is the Espeon?

It is buried under the small section of glass that Raichu created earlier. It burrowed in through the side, and with the sand falling into the tunnel, there isnt an entrance for Surge to notice. It is using Rest.

I groaned. That wasnt such a bad trick; I might have even overlooked it, but then again, a Rock or Earth-type move would have caused Will to regret that choice. It was also markedly different from how Will had fought against me.

He had swapped out some pokemon yes, but the moves that the familiar pokemon were using

Surge glared at Will. Alright punk, if you want to play hide and seek, youll learn why Im the best at that game! Magenzone! Land and use Sonicboom!

Will laughed. Isnt that an outdated move that does nothing?

Surge grinned. Oh, it does something alright.

He then put his fingers into his ears. I copied him out of instinct rather than actually understanding what was going on. Sabrina copied me. It was telling that every Gym trainer around us followed Surges lead.

Magnezone planted its magnets, and a moment later the air thrummed and a heavy whump sounded out, causing dust to radiate outwards before it suddenly sucked itself inwards.

I felt the pressure wave radiate over me due to the air disruption. Will staggered on his podium and shook his head.

What was that!? Will shouted shrilly.

Surge took his fingers out, and his eyes locked onto the now-shivering patch of glass where Sabrina had identified the Espeon as hiding. Gotcha now, flinching punk, said Surge as he pointed at it.

Will grabbed onto the podium rails. Espeon! Baton Pass now! he shouted, holding up another pokeball. Espeon vanished from underneath the glass, only for the pokemon that took its place to cause the glass to lift upwards as a much larger form appeared.

Exeggutor! chanted the many-faced grass-psychic pokemon.

Surge clicked his tongue at the switch. I noticed a gleam all over its body. He didnt juice, did he? I asked.

Sabrina chewed her lip. He may have; I felt Espeon get off another move after Rest, however, and with the time taken, he has a reasonable excuse. I cant be sure, and neither can others. It would have been obvious without this set up which couldnt be guaranteed.

I hissed in annoyance. If its not one thing, it's another with this guy! I said with a growl. Just black-bagging him is suddenly looking a lot more attractive. Maybe blame it on Team Rocket, even.

Sabrina snorted at that. Thats dark, she commented.

I paused and sighed, releasing the energy I had unknowingly not let go of when the Flash had come out earlier in the fight. Sorry, I said as Exeggutor marched towards Magnezone with Psychic warding off the few steel-type moves Surge had for his pokemon.

Steel Beam!

Hypnosis! ordered Will in response. His pokemons eyes glowed as steel energy was launched into Exeggutor. It staggered, but most of the faces stayed focused on the task of bringing down the Magnezone.

It staggered and fell out of the air to land, which had Will leaning forward hungrily. Bulldoze!

Exeggutor stormed forward and slammed into the slumbering pokemon which woke it up, but Wil wasn't about to let the other pokemon escape. Leap on it and Stomp! he commanded.

Exeggutor did just that, and then it began to stomp its feet down, smashing Magenzone down, and keeping it down on the ground.

Blast it! Surge snarled, causing Magezone to unleash everything it had from point-blank range. While it wasnt very effective, I had little doubt that Magnezone was one of Surges old pokemon.

Old pokemon usually had a lot in the tank and I grinned as Magenzone unleashed a powerful blast of electricity, that despite the type disadvantage still did damage.

Exeggutor was thrown back, and it had to turn its body as the faces on one side seemed blinded by how the electricity had flash-fried them.

Hmmm, perhaps a critical hit? I thought as I watched the Exeggutor continue to stumble.

Bulldoze! said Will causing his pokemon stop, stumble, and lean forward to throw itself into an attack. It surged forward with a growl.

MAGNEZONE! GO! shouted Surge with a manic grin on his face.

His Magnezone narrowed its eyes and then surged forward. It built up momentum quickly.

Both pokemon slammed into each other and another boom rocked the stadium.

I chuckled when the dust shifted and Surge was revealed, grinning up at me.

I nodded. Nice of him to use Titans catchphrase.

Sabrina merely inclined her head. It only got him to five to three, however. I looked to find both the Magnezone and the Exeggutor knocked out in the middle of the battlefield.

I whistled. Wow, alright then. Jolteon against Mr Mime, Espeon, and Medicham?

That is correct, Sabrina said.

Will considered his options before tossing out Mr Mime; specifically, he landed the pokemon behind the now sizeable divot that had been where Espeon had dug down.

Mr Mime winked at Jolteon as it appeared. A stir went through the crowd as they recalled that this had been the original matchup for this battle.

Surge can still do it, I said aloud, glancing about for any signs of potential Team Rocket interference.

Sabrina shook her head. I dont think Will is going to risk it; just the set-up would cost him too much and it would reveal his intentions.

Her eyes glowed for a moment, and she shook her head. Agatha and Janine have yet to find anything suspicious locally.

I sighed and chewed my lip as Jolteon blitzed around the field, only for Barriers to form up to block any lighting attacks. Surge started hammering back with Pin Missiles only for Will to click his tongue.

Trick Room! he ordered. Mr Mime raised its hands to form a cube, in doing so, it took a barrage of Pin Missiles.

But the cube still expanded out and engulfed the battlefield. And just like that, Jotleons best advantage with its speed was gone.

Will leered. Psybeam! Finish this match! he barked, causing Mr Mime to fire off a beam of psychic energy that had Jolteon running to avoid it as best it could, only to be clipped and sent rolling.

Again! ordered Will, only for the Jolteon to vanish as it was recalled.

Surge stood tall with his pokeball outstretched. I think thats enough; there's no need to beat down like that on Jolteon.

He worked his jaw a few times before nodding his head. Well! Looks like Ive had to eat some humble pie! Surge said, putting a hand behind his head and laughing like he wasnt all that bothered.

I sighed and stood up to give Surge my support with applause. The crowd joined in a moment later, and Will waved magnanimously, causing my stomach to curdle.

Will turned and noticed me for the first time during the match.

I held his gaze, and for a moment, I forgot that anyone else existed. Could I demand a fight from him here and now? He smirked before tapping the side of his mask.

Will turned away, unaffected by my staredown. I really hated that mask.

He returned to waving and a few moments later he shook hands with Surge only to turn towards a group of awaiting reporters. I snorted and toyed with the idea of inserting myself but decided against it

With the interviews going on I turned away and instead headed for Surges training area. Surge didnt take long and when he entered the room he strode up to a boxing bag and slammed a fist against it. The bag shook and floated back only for another fist to lash out and send it careening back.

Surge kept up the assault for a few minutes before catching the bag and exhaling a long and loud breath. Then he moved, but not like he usually did with energy and spontaneity.

He moved like he was an old man with a lot of burdens.

Like a man whose scars and history dragged him down. He slumped onto a bench and released another sigh.

I coughed to announce myself, but Surge just looked at the bag with an expression that told me his mind was far off.

I used to be able to beat the stuffing out of the bag for a good half an hour without breaking a sweat Now I cant do it for more than five minutes he said.

I blinked. It happens. Have you kept up your training? I said.

Surge snorted. I do Ive just Surge sighed and shook his head. Ive just gotten old he said, staring at the ground.

It was still a good fight, I said, looking to raise his spirits.

Good? Good is something pros and veterans wipe their asses with. I needed to be great tonight. Surge shook his head.

I shifted from foot to foot. I mean, you had him pressured for a bit there. It really could have been a lot closer.

Surge shook his head, staring at the punching bag. Nah, you dont get it, Brock, Ive slipped. I used to have one of the best edges when it came to pokemon battles. The fights we have in these Ace fights? They were nothing compared to fighting true combat I I used to think that would always see me through but Ive gotten sloppy.

He looked down at his swollen knuckles. I was arrogant and thats cost me this match Im sorry, I know you were hoping I put that prick in his place but instead, I just made him look better

Nah, you did great, I said loyally.

Brock I think Ive known for years that Im over the hill Ive had my peak I just well, I talked big. Surge clenched his fists. I could see it pained him to admit it.

Thats not true. You just need to find different methods and tactics. Use that experience you have! I said firmly, not willing to let this matter sit.

Surge merely waved back towards the arena where hed lost to Will barely half an hour ago.

I worked my jaw and considered the boxing bag. I walked up to it and gave it a soft jab. Surge snorted. Lock out your wrist or youll break it..

I nodded and did just that for a few more hits before speaking as I settled into a rhythm. I wont lie; I was thinking youd reveal him for what he is. Weve both had to eat some humble pie of late, no?

I started speeding up my hits and putting some rock energy into my punches. It freaking pisses me off to see that asshole strutting around like hes going to be the next Elite Four. I slammed a haymaker into the bag, and it swung wildly, only to be pounded in another direction as my other fist caught it on the backswing.

Surge stood and laughed at the hammer blows I was unleashing. Damn! Thats the spirit Brock! Let it out! Use your hips! Twist through and push the power from your feet all the way into your fist and through! My punches came faster and faster, harder and harder, as Surge coached me on how to improve my form.

I continued to hammer at it, building up my energy.

Imagine its Will smirking at you! Surge shouted all of a sudden.

I felt my anger spike as I all too easily imagined his face superimposed on the bag.

The tips Surge had been coaching me on suddenly clicked as I stepped into the bag and planted my foot before twisting and unleashing a punch that had every part of my body behind it.

The boxing bag detonated from the hit, and sand scattered over the floor.

I stepped back, huffing and puffing. See that Surge? You havent lost your edge, you just traded it out for being a Gym Leader. Youre a hell of a coach, and I have no doubt the Gym trainers under you learn a lot. I tapped him on the shoulder. I know I did when you helped me out.

I made sure to lock eyes with him. I could still use your experience and knowledge.

Surge rubbed his thumb across his nose. Aw shucks, youre gonna make me blush!

I chuckled. You know, there is a good thing about Will being so prominent of late.

Surge tilted his head. Yeah, and whats that?

I chuckled. My pokemon and I have never been more motivated to improve. I reached out and slapped Surge on the shoulder, barely able to reach him there. Also, no one thinks you did bad. You stood up, and people respect that.

I waved for him to follow, and I led him outside. There, a number of people were milling about on the boulevard.

It only took seconds for people to notice Surge and for cheering and applause to start.

Way to rattle that sissys cage, Surge! cheered one man.

Youre the best!

We love you, Surge!

Yeah, baby! Go Surge! screamed another.

I chuckled and smiled up at Surge. They all believe in you. Give yourself some credit, just as you believe in me. I believe you can get over this. You up to some training with me again?

Heh! You aint leaving me in the dirt, Brock! Youre on! he said before turning and waving to the crowd who cheered his name. Surge grinned and rubbed the back of his head.

I merely laughed, glad to see him feeling better. I then considered what Id said. I might have to pick your brain on how to work with pokemon on building raids soon you know?

That made him perk up and look thoughtful. Huh, yeah, theres gonna be a lot of raids coming up with Team Rocket being so frisky, ain't there? he rubbed his chin. Call me when you want to talk shop or give me a week and Ill set something up, he said.

I nodded, noting that he looked a lot more himself now that he had a task to work towards.

I then waved for him to lead me around his City. I ended up spending an hour with Surge walking around Vermillion, talking with locals, and helping to lift his spirits.

When that was done, I asked Sabrina to pick me up, and she did so only to Teleport me to her own Gym.

Thought we were going home? I asked.

She merely gave me a coy smile. You can stay at mine tonight. I chuckled as she handed Ralts to me before changing into her pyjamas.

Huh, seemed like it was time for a sleepover; it was a good way to end the day.

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