pokemon Fighting Dreamers

''So you're the Gym Leader.'' Bea asked.

''That's right, sorry if I don't look like one right now, but we all have our hobbies, right?''

''Nice to meet you, Milo.'' Ash said with a smile. ''I would like to challenge you to a Gym battle.''

''Well, that's alright, but first I have to put my conditions.''

''Conditions?'' Ash asked.

''As you probably know already, the Galar League counts with the participation of various important trainers, so we can't let anyone get in there, can we?'' Milo explained.

''I suppose you're right.'' Ash admitted.

''The Gym Leaders in Galar have the right to put terms in their battles to make them more challenging, that way we make sure that only the strongest trainers can enter the league, but then again the Chairman himself invited you, so I suppose we can make an exception with you.''

''No thanks, if I am here challenging the Gyms is because I don't want any special treatments, so please tell me your terms.''

''If that's what you prefer, well, since I'm your first Gym battle I don't want to do something exaggerated so...I know! This are my conditions: We'll have a 3v3 battle but two of the Pokemon you will use must be Grass types since I am a Grass specialist myself, what do you say?''

''Sounds good, Milo, I accept your conditions.''

''Very well, now follow me, I'll take you to center so you can rest up.''

''Ash, what are you gonna do about the condition?'' Bea asked as they started to follow Milo.

''What do you mean?'' Ash asked.

''You don't have any Grass types, do you?''

''Of course I do, you'll see when we get to the center.''

''If you say so...''

''Well, here we are.'' Milo said as he lead to the door of the Pokemon Center. ''Get confortable, I'll be back to my farm.''

''Thanks for showing us the way, Milo.'' Ash said.

''No problem, our battle we'll be tomorrow at 12:00 PM, I'll be waiting for you.''

''Tomorrow then.''

Ash and Bea then entered the center and kept on talking.

''So you got two grass types Pokemon?''

''Actually I have...Cilan?'' Ash stood in disbelief as he spotted a young man with a waiter outfit, green hair and a Pansage clinging from his arm.

''Cilan is the name of one your pokemon?'' Bea asked.

''No, there, hey, Cilan!'' As Ash called, Oshawott came out of his Poke Ball upon hearing his trainer's friend's name, Oshawott ran excited towards Cilan and stumbled on the latter's legs.

''Hmm?'' The former Gym Leader turned to see if someone was calling his name he then looked down to see the otter waving at him. ''An Oshawott?'' As he held the otter in his arms, Pansage greeted the Water Pokemon as he recognized him, Cilan then noticed a certain boy with a cap and Pikachu approaching to him. ''Ash?! My, look at you! It's been ages!''

''Cilan, It's really nice to see you again, Pansage, how have you been?''

''Pan Pan!'' The monkey Pokemon greeted Ash and Pikachu.

''Our Pokemon and us are doing fine, thanks.'' Cilan said.

''Us?'' Ash asked.

''Cilan, I already finished my call with...Ash?''

''Burgundy?''

''Why, bonjour, Ash! It's been a while.'' The purple-haired girl said as she took hold of Cilan's free arm, after a few seconds of shock Ash realized the situation.

''Wait, you guys are?!-''

''Seems like your ability is not Oblivious anymore, Ash.'' Cilan said jokingly.

''Indeed, we are together.'' Burgundy said holding Cilan's arm tighter. ''Do you have a problem with that, Ketchum?'' She asked giving him a death stare for...you know...reasons.

''You...and...Burgundy...'' Ash spoke slowly trying to process what was happening. ''Alright, what did I miss?''

''Well, lots of things happened after we split up.'' Cilan started to explain. ''The short version would be that I ran into Burgundy while I was visiting Kalos, there was quite the atmosphere, we had a battle, one thing led to another and well, the rest is history.''

''But I thought you hated Cilan.'' Ash said looking at Burgundy.

''Maybe I was just a little bit jealous of him, But I always admired him, deep inside, I only wanted him to whisper to me: ma cherie je t'aime.''

''So you were just playing to be a tsundere?'' Ash asked.

''No! that's not it at all!''

''You look so cute when you're mad.'' Cilan commented as Burgundy's face turned as red as Groudon.

''W-W-What?''

''Well, I'm not gonna lie, you two complement each other quite nicely.'' While Ash wasn't exactly an expert at the topic he decided to compliment his friends.

''Thank you, Ash, that means a lot.'' Cilan said while burgundy rolled her eyes.

''Yeah, yeah, you probably don't even know what compliment means, and what's with your Oshawott? It seriously hasn't evolved yet? My Dewott evolved long time ago.'' Burgundy released the mentioned Pokemon as it stoodd infront of the little Oshawott.

''Samu?''

''Osha!'' Oshawott waved at him with a smile.

''Rott!'' The sea lion smiled back and drew on of his seamitars from his front leg pointing at Oshawott, The latter then prepared a Razor Shell and after two soft clashes both Pokemon returned their blades and reverenced to each other.

''What was that?'' Ash asked.

''Perhaps a nature of their evolutionary line.'' Cilan said.

''It looked as if they were making some kind of salutation.'' Burgundy added.

''Well, Ash, I suppose you came to Galar for the League, am I right?'' Cilan said.

''Yes, I am, but what are you guys doing here in Galar?'' Ash asked.

''Well, you see, the Gym Leaders in Galar can take a guest to the Pokemon League, Milo, the Gym Leader of this town and I have been friends for a while and he invited me to the league so I decided to explore to region during the meantime.''

''Really?! I was invited to the league and decided to explore the region too!'' Ash exclaimed.

''Quite the coïncidence.'' Burgundy said.

''As always, destiny is big and the city is small.'' Cilan added with a hand on his chin and looking at the roof.

''Either that or the author couldn't come up with a better reason.'' Bea said from the side causing them to look at her as she let out a nervous laugh. ''Sorry, Cinderace is in her Ball, someone had to do the joke.''

''Oh, Sorry, I haven't introduced myself, my name is Cilan, nice to meet you. I traveled with Ash through the Unova region.'' He offered Bea his hand and she gadly accepted.

''I'm Bea, nice to meet you too...I, uhm...I'm traveling with Ash now.''

''So you're his new traveling companion, huh?'' The connoisseur asked giving her a bit of a cold glare, the way Cilan said his last sentence didn't help either, Bea felt as if she was being accused of replacing him.

''Well, that's very nice!'' He said with a smile causing Bea to relax. ''You look more mature than Iris too.''

''Now that you mention her, Cilan, have you heard anything about Iris since we split up?'' Ash asked.

''Actually, I haven't.'' Cilan answered.

''Who's Iris?'' Bea asked.

''She traveled with Ash and me through Unova, she aimed to be a Dragon master.'' Cilan explained.

''She was a bit irritating.'' Ash admitted.

''How so?'' Bea asked again.

''I mean, we got along, but we had plenty of discussions.'' Ash then made an annoyed frown surprising Bea. ''She was always calling me a little kid and that annoys me to this day.''

''Ah, yeah, I must admit that your two flavors weren't exactly the best mix.'' Cilan said.

''Oui, you two were always arguing, it was weird, as if you were some kind of frenemies.''

''You mean frenemies as 'We like disliking one another' or frenemies as 'He's like me least favorite brother'?'' Bea asked.

''Uhm...a bit of both.'' Burgundy replied.

''If she was so irritating, why did you travel with her? Bea asked to Ash.

''I don't know!'' Ash yelled annoyed, now Iris' voice saying: ''YOU'RE SUCH A KID! YOU'RE SUCH A KID!'' was echoing in his mind. ''I liked Georgia better anyway...AT LEAST SHE DIDN'T MAKE AN EXCADRILL USE DIG ON A DAMN BOAT!'' Ash yelled again as he went to make a Video Call.

''Ah, hello, Ash, tell me, how are you doing in Galar?''

''I'm doing fine Professor Oak, thanks for asking.'' Luckily talking with the professor helped Ash to calm down.

''That's good, that's good, tell me Ash, is there something I can do for you?''

''Well, remember what you said before I left Kanto the other day? You told me that some of my Pokemon haven't seen real action in quite a while.''

''Of course I remember...Oh, does that means what I think it means?''

''Yes, I would like to change that, I need you to send me two Pokemon.''

''All done, your Cinderace can use Pyro Ball again.'' Jack, the Move Reminder, told Bea as he gave her back Cinderace's Premier Ball.

''Thank you, Mr. Jack.'' Bea took the Premier Ball and released Cinderace, the rabbit instantly jumped in excitement and lighted up a Pyro Ball juggling it with her feet.

''Oh, god, I missed you so much.'' The Fire Type said while snuggling to the Pyro Ball she just created.

''Your Cinderace has quite the personality.'' Cilan said while looking at Bea's Pokemon.

''Yup, sometimes she's just too much tho.'' Bea replied and then looked at Ash walking back towards them. ''Hey, Ash, you done?''

''Yes, there are some Pokemon I'd like you to know.'' Ash then took two Poke balls and released a small snake Pokemon and a thin mantis Pokemon.

''Bea, these are Snivy and Leavanny.'' Ash presented his Pokemon and both looked at the girl. ''Leavanny and Snivy, this is Bea.''

Leavanny greeted the girl with her claws as Snivy extended her vines to handshake with her.

''Nice to meet you.'' Bea said.

''How have you two been?'' Cilan asked as both Pokemon greeted him as well. ''It's been a while, right?

''So you'll be using these two?'' Bea asked.

''Yes, along with Pikachu.'' Ash replied as Pikachu nodded. ''How is Cinderace?''

''Happy to get back her Pyro Ball at last.'' She said and looked at Cinderace who was still hugging the fireball.

''That's good, after all that shuffle with Team Rocket I think she needs a rest.''

''What? Team Rocket still follows you?'' Cilan asked.

''Yeah...'' Ash said annoyed again.

''My, those guys always were the Applin in our apple.''

''By the way, I forgot to tell you that your tent was left behind in the camp when Team Rocket kidnapped you.'' Bea explained. ''You'll have to buy a new one.''

''You can always sleep together.'' Cinderace said jokingly. ''I wouldn't mind being inside the Poke Ball while you two get to 'know each other'.''

''Shut up!'' Bea yelled.

''What did she say?'' Ash asked.

''N-Nothing important.''

''You can talk with Pokemon?'' Cilan asked surprised.

''Uh...More or less.''

''What do you mean by that?'' Burgundy asked wanting the details.

''Bea's hairband let her understand her Cinderace.'' Ash explained. ''But it doesn't work with any other Pokemon, it doesn't even works with Cinderace if someone else is using the hairband.''

''Hmm, quite intéressant.'' Burgundy said.

''Indeed, actually it reminds of N.'' Cilan added.

''N? Another of your acquaintances I guess.'' Bea asked looking at Ash.

''Yes, N could talk with Pokemon as well, he said he could listen to thier hearts.'' Ash explained as he thought of all that happened with Team Plasma, he hadn't thought of that in a while, in fact, he hadn't though about any of those Super Villain organizations he had faced along his travel in a while, his mind wandered off a little, but he quickly got back to reality. ''Still, don't worry about the tent, Bea, we're gonna sleep in the center today anyway. I'll buy a new one after the battle.''

''The battle, right!'' Bea then took Ash by his wrist and started to pull him out of the center, much to everyone's surprise. ''Come on, I'll teach you the proper way to use Dynamax.''

''What? Bea, you don't have to bother with that.'' Ash tried to argue but Bea just kept on dragging him.

''Yes, I do, I said I was going to help you with all I could and that's what I'm going to do.'' She said firmly.

''Would you mind if we go along?'' Cilan asked following them.

''Im also interested in this Dynamax phénomène.'' Burgundy said following them as well.

''Sure, you can come too.''

''Hey, looks like nobody's here.'' Bea said as they made it to the empty Turffield Stadium.

''Sounds too convenient if you ask me.'' Cinderace said.

''Alright, Pikachu, you'll go first'' Ash said to his partner as they made their way to the battlefield along his Pokemon. ''Bea mentioned you should be able to Gigantamax so we should try that out.''

''PI-KA.'' The rodent shook his head in disapproval for the idea.

''Why not?'' Ash asked.

''PIKA PIKA!'' Despite talking different languages, Ash obviously got the message, Pikachu was NOT going to get inside the Poke Ball again.

''But it will just be a few seconds!''

''PIKA!''

''Sigh, right, Riolu would you like to go then?''

''OL!'' The canine nodded with excitement.

''Then lets do it!'' Ash activated his band and retrieved Riolu.'' Riolu, Dynamax!'' He then tossed the ball behind him and a giant Riolu Emerged from it.

''Wow, you already knew how to use the band?'' Bea asked.

''Yes, I mean, The man who sold it to me explained me how to activate it, but nothing else.''

''Well, I'll show you the rest, I'm gonna be using Quilladin for this.'' Bea went to the other side of the battlefield, she activated her band and... ''Dynamax!'' the giant Quilladin was summoned to the battlefield.

''Well, seems like you two can handle this, we'll be in the stands watching.'' Cilan said as he and Burgundy left wanting to keep a safe distant.

''Alright, Ash, first lesson!'' Bea started to explain. ''As I already told you, Dynamax can only be used once per battle and once you use it there's only three moves, if you return your Pokemon while it's Dynamaxing you won't be able to Dynamax it again during that battle, is that clear?''

''Understood!'' Ash said.

''Now, lesson two, during normal Dynamax, every move of a certain type will turn into one specific Dynamax Move, for example Quilladin's Brick Break and Riolu's Sky Uppercut are both Fighting Type moves and they will both become Max Knuckle, let's try that out, alright?''

''Alright!''

''Quilladin, Max Knuckle!''

''Riolu, Max Knuckle too!''

Both pokemon raised their fists and clashed them with each other, creating a small blast wave that shook the ground, the Pokemon then walked back a few steps and a brilliant red aura came from their feet and raised to their heads.

''Woah, was that thing at the end?'' Ash asked.

''That was an Attack raise, their moves will now be stronger, that's lesson three, every Dynamax move has a guaranteed secondary effect, Max Knuckle raises Attack, Quilladin and I will show you another secondary effect now, you ready?''

''Bring it on!''

''Quilladin, Max Overgrowth!'' Quilladin created a massive storm of leaves directed towards Riolu, the leaves then exploded when they made contact, creating a Grassy Terrain.

''That was Max Overgrowth, the Dynamax grass move, coming from Quilladin's Seed Bomb, its secondary effect is activating Grassy Terrain.''

''I see...''

''Now Lesson four, Max Guard, the only defensive Dynamax move, every move that doesn't do direct damage will turn into Max Guard, Quilladin's Leech Seed and Riolu's Copycat for example, we will activate it and you can attack us, got it?''

''Got it!''

''Alright then, your Riolu has Quick Attack, all normal moves turn into Max Strike, its secondary effect is lowering the enemy's Speed, try it out.''

''Riolu, Max Strike!'' Riolu jumped forward and rushed to shoulder tackle Quilladin.

''Quilladin, Max Guard!'' Quilladin crossed its arms creating a huge transparent shield that blocked Riolu's attack, after the shield disappeared Quilladin returned to his normal size.

''Good! now you guys use Max Guard and we'll call it a day.''

''Riolu, Max Guard!'' Just like Quilladin did, Riolu crossed its arms creating a shield and after it disappeared, the canine returned to his normal size and stretched.

''And that's all!'' Bea said as she and Quilladin walked towards Ash.

''Thanks for teaching us all that, Bea.'' Ash said.

''No problem, lesson five would be Gigantamax but unfortunately I don't have one to show you.''

''Tell me, besides the shape change is there difference in battle?''

''Gigantamax will give the Pokemon a special signature move that only they can use instead of a Dynamax move of one specific type, for example, a Gigantamax Pikachu's electric moves will become G-Max Volt Crash instead of Max Lightning, you remember what Max Lightning does, right?''

''Yes, When your Cinderace used it, she created an Electric Terrain.''

''Instead of doing that, G-Max Volt Crash will paralyze the target.''

''Understood, see Pikachu? it would be so cool!''

''PIKA!'' The rodent shook his head again refusing.

''Your Rotom Phone should come with an App that explains the rest of the moves to you, I hope I helped tho.''

''Of course you did, you helped a lot, Bea.''

''That was quite the demonstration.'' Cilan said while coming down from the stands. ''Dynamax is definitely something I've never tasted before.''

''I know right? I can't wait for the battle, I wonder what kind of Pokemon Milo's gonna use.''

''Same old Ash I see.'' Cilan said. ''Still I want to see how much you've grown so I'll be attending to your battle tomorrow, What do you say, Burgundy?''

''I'm intéressée as well, not going to lie.''

''And of course, I'll be there for you too.'' Bea added.

''Thanks, guys.''

Next day, 11:00 AM

Ash was in the locker room of the stadium with his Pokemon preparing for the battle.

''So Max Flare causes Sunny Day and Max Geyser causes Rain...'' Ash was giving one last check to the info of Max Moves on his Rotom Phone like Bea suggested him.

''Hey, Ash!'' Bea's voice called from outside. ''It's me, can I come in?''

''Sure, give me a moment.'' Ash went and opened the door.

''I just wanted to see how you were doing.'' She said. ''Are you nervous?''

''Not at all.'' He answered with a smile. ''This isn't the first time I've been in a stadium.''

''Well, good for you, I guess.''

''Hey, Where's Cinderace?'' Ash asked.

''Oh, she's in the stands along with Cilan and Burguny.'' Bea replied. ''It's almost time you know? You should put on you uniform.''

''Uniform?'' Ash asked again.

''...You don't have a uniform?!'' Bea exclaimed.

''Should I have one?'' Ash continued to ask.

''Look, I understand that you are not used to the way things are in Galar, but you seriously didn't investigate anything about this place?''

''Hmm...''

''Sigh, alright, there's still one hour left, you stay here and keep preparing for the battle, I'll buy you a uniform.''

''You don't have to do that, Bea, I'll go.'' Ash was about to leave, but Bea stopped him.

''Nope, I insist, you have to focus, I'll take care of this.'' Bea said as she left the locker room and started running. ''Don't worry! I'll be back before you know it!''

After quickly leaving the stadium and running to the shop, Bea entered it founding a rather similar face at the counter.

''Hey, aren't you the same guy from the Hulbury Battle Shop?'' She asked at the man.

''Hulbury? Nope, that must have been my cousin Ron, my name is Rob.'' The man presented himself. ''Tell me, what can I do for you?''

''Uh...sure.'' Bea decided to don't mind that and go to the point. ''I need a Gym Uniform.''

''Of course, you're challenging the Turffield Gym?''

''It's not for me, It's for a friend.''

''Well, alright, Here.'' He handed over a stylus and a tablet with the image of a blank uniform and a paint application, Bea then gave him a weird look.

''What's this?'' She asked.

''It's the uniform designing App.'' Rob started to explain. ''It's something recent, the Chairman wants every challenger to show off their own personalities so they let them make their own uniforms now, you can design it anyway way you want, colors, a signature, symbols...just don't try anything too graphic, we already had an ''incident'' with that.''

Bea hadn't heard of any of that and she thought she did not have time or the imagination to design a uniform. ''Can't you just give a regular uniform?'' She asked.

''Nope, sorry, but this is the only way as of now.'' Rob answered. ''All the regular uniforms were burned to cinders a few days ago, along with my remaining hopes for Pokemon Z.''

''Still, I'm not exactly an expert at design.''

''A wise man once said: 'You don't need to be an expert to be a great artist'.'' Rob then started to shed tears. ''S-Sorry, I...I got emotional.''

''I'm still not sure about what to do.'' She thought that she could just do something as simple as leaving the uniform blank and just putting the Galar league logo but she didn't wanted to disappoint Ash, she told him that she would take care of this.

''Well, you said it was for your friend, right? Just think about him, what do you think that will suit him?''

''Think about him?''

Bea took a deep breath and then she asked herself ''What could suit Ash?'' What could suit his sparkling personality? his kindness, his cheerfulness, his bravery, his smile, that damned smile, wait why was she thinking about his smile? Anyway, before she knew, Bea already had the design complete.

''There, it's done.'' She said happily surprised by how it ended up.

''My, that's truly impressive, seems like you know you friend a lot.''

That made Bea stop for a moment, did she know Ash? Sure, of course she knows who he was and all that, but does she actually knows him? They've had their moments but that doesn't mean she knows him, right? And that made her realize that Ash actually didn't know her either, Most of the things he had told him were lies, heck, he didn't even know her true name, why hasn't she told him about that already? Now she felt guilty again, Maybe she could find an opportunity to-.

''You okay, girl?'' Ron called, pulling Bea out of her trance.

''...Yes...'' She had a lost look, she then shook her head to get back to focus. ''Rob, I don't have much time, how long does this take?''

''Your design is a bit too detailed but it shouldn't take more than 30 minutes.''

''Then let's do it.'' She said handing over the tablet.

''Well, alright, let's print your friend a uniform.''

''Alright, everyone got the plan?'' Ash asked to the three Pokemon that he would use in the battle as they nodded.

''Ash, it's me. I'm back!'' Bea's voice called once again and Ash ran to open the door. ''Here, you uniform.'' Bea offered him a small white shopping bag with the Galar league logo.

''Bea, you really didn't have to, but thanks.''

''No worries, I made the design myself, hope you like it.''

Ash then opened the bag, he took out from it a royal blue shirt with the Galar League logo in the middle of the chest, it had two big black lightnings with yellow outlines, the lightnings started in the shoulders and went all the way down through the shirt, along the shirt were a pair of shorts that were royal blue as well with two yellow lightnings on the sides, the number ''401'' was on the lower part of the shorts and in the back of the shirt, both the shirt and the shorts had small black lightning bolts all over the place that looked like the marks that Ash has on his cheeks.

''Wow, Bea...this looks amazing!''

''Phew, glad to hear that.'' She said relieved.

''Attention, trainers and spectators, the Gym battle will start in 5 minutes.'' The voice of the announcer was heard through a speaker on the whole stadium.

''Well, that's my cue.'' Bea said heading to the door. ''I'll be cheering for you from the stands, good luck.''

''Hey, Bea!'' He called making her look back at him. ''Thanks a lot...really.'' Ash gave her that exact smile that she was thinking of a few minutes ago.

''There's nothing to thank for, Ash...Just make sure to win this fight, okay?''

''Of course.''

After that short talk, Bea closed the door behind her, she then remembered something that she forgot to tell Ash and quickly re-opened the door. ''Hey, Ash, one last thing...'' When Bea opened the door, Ash was looking to the other direction, he had already taken off his vest and his undershirt giving Bea a glance of his bare back.

''Uh?'' Ash looked back seeing Bea at the door.

''GAH!'' Bea shouted and quickly slammed the door ashamed. ''S-S-SORRY!'' She said from outside agitatedly.

''Bea, it's alright, I-''

''N-No, No, it's my fault.'' Bea interrupted him still agitated. ''I should have just said it from out here, uhm...I...you...right...I just wanted to tell you that once you get outside you have to go the center of the field, the referee will be there, waiting for you and Milo to tell you the rules.''

''Alright, thanks, Bea.'' Ash said not fazed at all.

''N-No problem, sorry again.'' Bea started to walk away to the stands still trying to process what just happened.

After changing clothes, Ash took a moment to look himself in the mirror. ''I look like a superhero...What do you think Pikachu?''

''Pika!'' The mouse gave his trainer a thumbs-up in approval.

'...Bea made this for me...' He thought with a smile.

''Attention trainers, you can head to the battlefield now, the battle will start shortly.'' The voice of the announcer was heard once again.

''Well, Pikachu.'' Ash put on his cap and Pikachu jumped on his shoulder. ''The show is on.''

''Hey, Darrell, I was wondering...'' A member of the staff asked to the announcer. ''When you introduce Ash, are you gonna mention he is a Champion?''

''Nah, he's here as a Gym Challenger so let's not make him awkward.'' The announcer answered.

''Yeah, you're right, everyone knows he's a Champion anyway.''

''Why did I suddenly feel a cold air?'' Bea asked herself as she made her way through the stands that were already crowded.

''Finally, Bea, where have you been?'' Cilan asked as Bea finally came back to her seat.

''I had to help Ash with his uniform.'' She answered as she sat down next to Cinderace who was drinking a soda.

''Welcome, Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Darell and today we have a pretty interesting battle.'' The announcer started to narrate as the crowd cheered.

''On one side of the battlefield, our Turffield Gym Leader, The Fighting Farmer, MILO!'' The crowd cheered again, Milo waved his hand as he came out of one of the big tunnels that led to the battlefield, walking to the center of the field.

''And on the other side, on his first Gym battle in the Galar region, Gym Challenger ASH KETCHUM!'' The crowd got even more excited, most of them already knowing who Ash was and what he was capable of, since Milo's gym tends to be the first that challengers face, it was unusual to see actually strong trainers.

Ash slowly walked to the field with Pikachu on his shoulder, looking at all the people cheering, he would never get tired of that feeling, Ash eventually got a sight of his friends in the front row and waved at them.

Burgundy and Cilan waved back as Bea was still thinking about that little situation that happened in the locker room.

'God, if Cinderace finds out about what happened she'll bother me until Ash gets his 8 badges or further beyond.' She thought for herself. 'Ash sounded like he didn't mind tho, I suppose this is not the first time a girl sees him without his clothes.' she then mentally slapped herself. 'What in the world are you saying, Bea?! You only saw his back! it's not like you saw him in underwear or without anything at all!' Her mind got blurry for a second as she imagined that. 'NO! Stop! I'm not going to imagine that!' She already did however.

''NO, I DIDN'T!'' She yelled out loud.

''Who are you talking to?'' Cinderace asked.

Back in the battlefield Ash and Milo were already in the center of it along the referee.

''Very nice uniform you have, Ash!'' Milo said complimenting.

''Thanks! My friend Bea made it for my actually.''

''Oh! Well isn't that very nice?''

''I didn't know you and Cilan were friends by the way.''

''Right, I forgot to tell you he was here, please excuse me.''

''Don't worry, it was a very nice surprise.''

''Well, I think we should focus on the battle for now...you know Ash? People always call me the weakest Gym Leader and...Yeah, that's actually true, Haha, I'd rather focus on having fun in the battles than in winning, but don't worry, I'll be sure to give you a very nice fight.''

''Thanks, Milo, I'll do my best too.''

''This will be an official Gym battle between the Gym Leader Milo and the Gym Challenger Ash Ketchum.'' The referee shouted so the whole stadium could hear. ''This will be a three on three match with switches and Dynamax allowed and the challenger is forced to use at least two Grass Type Pokemon during the fight, did I make myself clear?''

As the referee ended his explanation, both Ash and Milo nodded to his question.

''Trainers, take your positions and release your first Pokemon!'' The referee raised both its flags as Milo and Ash went to the sides of the battlefield.

''Get ready Ash, this is my first pokemon.'' Milo took an Ultra Ball from his belt and prepared himself to toss it. ''Eldegoss, let's leaf them knocked out!'' The Gym Leader released a small plant-like Pokemon with something that looked like a big cotton on his head.

''Pikachu, I choose...wait, 'let's leaf them knocked out'?''

''Uh...yeah, the other Gym leaders always come up with funky phrases and puns but I'm not that good with them...it's a work in progress.''

''Well, ok, Pikachu, I choose you!''

''Pika!'' The rodent jumped off his trainer's shoulders and stood in the battlefield.

''Alright Fellas, Ash is gonna start with his ace right away.'' The announcer said excited. ''Let's see what he's up to.''

''Rotom, can you give me that Pokemon's dex entry?'' Ash asked as the phone came out of his pocket.

''Of course, Ash.'' After scanning the Pokemon and loading a few seconds, Rotom started to explain: ''Eldegoss, the Cotton Bloom Pokemon, The cotton on the head of this Pokémon can be spun into a glossy, gorgeous yarn—a Galar regional specialty.''

''If both trainers are ready then the battle begins now!'' The referee shouted and the crowd cheered once again.

''Alright, Pikachu, let's go for a-'' Ash was about to do the the first move, but suddenly his band was surrounded by a Red beeping light.

''What's going on now?'' Ash asked.

''Just touch the screen of the band.'' A voice sounded in his mind.

''What? Who are you?'' Ash asked looking around.

''You'll know soon enough, for now I'd just like to give you a helping hand...or a helping paw in my case.''

''Helping paw?''

''Ash, are you okay?'' Milo asked from his side.

''Yeah, I-''

''Touch it, you can trust me.'' The voice said again trying to convince the boy.

Ash eventually gave in and pressed the screen of his Dynamax band, the beeping light then turned into various streaks of light that flew to the battlefield and orbited around Pikachu.

''Well done, I'll leave the rest to you. Good Luck.'' Ash heard a static sound for a few seconds as the voice disappeared.

''Pikachu...'' Ash thought for a second until he understood the situation. ''GIGANTAMAX!'' Ash shouted as his band glowed again, the lights that orbited around Pikachu were absorbed by him as he started to grow bigger and bigger, topping the stadium as the crowd went crazy.

''Ash decides to use Gigantamax just at the beggining of the battle and without retrieving his Pikachu to his Poke Ball on top of that!''

''Wow, they just Gigantamaxed on their first try.'' Bea said impressed.

''I''ll bring that mouse down someday.'' Cinderace said trying to hide her surprise.

''This is truly a glorious flavor.'' Cilan said.

''As always with Ash, you have to expect the inattendu.'' Burgundy added.

''Why are you throwing random french words?'' Cinderace complained. ''It just makes you sound stupid!''

''What did your Cinderace say?'' Burgundy asked to Bea.

''Uh...She says that using french words makes you sound really elegant.'' Bea danced around the true.

''My, thanks, it seems like your Cinderace is quite the fille de culture as well.'' Burgundy kept talking as Cinderace cringed further.

Back to the fight.

''Eldegoss, Sunny day'' The flower Pokemon created a small beam of light that flew upwards the sky causing the sun to shine brighter, Since Pikachu was way taller now, he tried to cover his eyes from the sun, giving Milo a chance to attack first.

''Good, now Weather Ball!'' Eldegoss created a small white orb that turned into fire and then shot it Pikachu's face causing a small smoke screen.

''Pikachu, Max strike!'' Not used to his size Pikachu tried to walk slowly towards Eldegoss, giving Milo another opening.

''Solar Beam!'' Eldegoss absorbed sunlight and released a powerful beam onto Pikachu's face making him fail the attack.

''Now use Growth!'' Eldegoss closed it eyes and absorbed sunlight again, this time raising its attack power.

''Milo is fighting back the Gigantamax like is nothing at all!'' The announcer said.

'We have to get rid of this sun...' Ash thought. ''That's it! Pikachu, Max geyser.'' Pikachu's giant tail turned blue, the Pokemon then slammed the tail against the ground damaging Eldegoss and creating a explosion of water that caused a rain that blocked the sun.''

''And they said it changes when the sun goes down...'' the announcer sang. ''HAHA, well done, Ash!''

''Use Sunny day again!'' Milo shouted.

''Don't let them do it, Pikachu, G-Max Volt Crash!'' Pikachu launched a giant bolt of electricity up to the clouds created by the Max Geyser, all the clouds merged into a single one and then crashed down a giant lightning onto Eldegoss who fell paralyzed but still able to battle, the clouds disappeared, the rain stopped and Pikachu returned to his normal size panting and tired.

''Eldegoss, get up!'' Milo shouted as his pokemon tried to get up unsuccesfully because of the static.

''Take your chance, Pikachu, Iron Tail!'' Despite the fatigue, Pikachu jumped and slammed his tail against the flower Pokemon knocking it back to one of the walls and leaving it knocked out.

''Eldegoss is unable to battle, Pikachu is the winner!''

As the referee said and the crowd cheered, Pikachu dropped dead on the battlefield, Ash quickly ran to pick him up.

''Pikachu, are you okay?'' Ash asked worried.

''Pi...ka.'' The rodent nodded rubbing his head.

''Ash got the upper hand pretty quickly but it looks like Pikachu is simply exhausted after that Gigantamax!'' The announcer shouted.

''Take a rest, Pikachu, we'll handle the rest.'' Ash walked back to his position and let Pikachu resting on a nearby bench.

''Very well Ash, this is my next Pokemon, Flapple, Brawl!'' Milo launched a second Ultra Ball and from it came a small apple that rolled to the battlefield and stopped flat as it reached the center of it.

''Uh...''

''Flapple, Stand!'' As Milo shouted the apple broke open revealing a Dragonic Pokemon that started flying around the field.

''...Rotom?'' Ash called.

''At your service! ''Flapple, the Apple Wing Pokemon, It flies on wings of apple skin and spits a powerful acid. It can also change its shape into that of an apple.''

''Alright then.'' Ash searched in his pocket for a Poke ball. ''Leavanny, I choose you!'' The mantis Pokemon came out of the ball smiling happy to be battling again.

''Ash ketchum using a Pokemon with type advantage? What kind of weird alternate timeline did I wake up in?!'' The announcer commented as the whole stadium including Ash laughed, even him had to admit it was unusual of him.

''Let's do this, Flapple, I'll be ROOTING for you!''

''Rooting?'' Ash asked.

''I told you it's a work in progress.''

''Leavanny, let's start with Leaf Blade'' As his claws glowed green Leavanny ran quickly to slash Flapple with them.

''Flapple, Wing Attack!'' Flapple's wing glowed white and became wider as it flew towards Leavanny, both Pokemon clashed their edges a few times until Flapple landed a clean hit on Leavanny's face.

''Leavanny, Signal beam!'' A small orb appeared over Levanny's antennas creating a light green beam directed at Flapple, but the latter managed to avoid it.

''Bullet Seed!'' Flapple opened its mouth shooting several seeds towards Leavanny.

''Leavanny, Steel Wing!'' Leavanny crossed his claws as they were covered by a metallic shine, he then quickly slashed the air and cut all the seeds. ''Now go after Flapple!''

''Dodge them!'' Milo shouted as Flapple moved from side to side avoiding the metallic cuts. ''Wing Attack again!'' Flapple quickly charged the attack, this time hitting Leavanny in the abdomen.

''That's gotta hurt!'' The announcer said. ''Leavanny has a x4 weakness to Flying fellas, He's NOT going to survive another Wing Attack, Ash has to think of something and he has to do it fast!'''

''Signal Beam!'' Leavanny launched the attack but Flapple quickly flew to avoid it again.

''He's too fast...String Shot!'' Leavanny opened his mouth and shot a stream of silk that wrapped Flapple. ''Now Signal Beam!'' Leavanny once again created a light green beam from his antennas this time with the hit ensured, he dealt great damage on Flapple but ended up burning her String Shot in the process setting the dragon free.

''Use Grav Apple!'' Milo shouted as Flapple flew until it was on top of Leavanny, it eyes glowed creating a giant energy tree that lifted him up, the dragon then turned back into her ball form and proceeded to absorb the tree being surrounded by grassy energy as it sent himself down towards Leavanny going for the latter's head, however Flapple ended up falling into the battlefield infront of Leavanny crashing into the ground as the whole stadium went silent, it didn't even explode or anything, he just dropped dead.

''Leava?'' The insect tilted his head not understanding what just happened.

''Uh...I was expecting something more visually interesting.'' Ash said.

''Yeah...his ability is Hustle, he's very fast and strong but he misses from time to time.'' Milo replied. ''Flapple, get up and go for a Dragon Rush!'' The Apple Pokemon flew back and then started to roll on his apple form towards Leavanny surrounded by a purple energy.

''Use Steel Wing to land an upper slash!'' Ash tried to took advantage of Type resistances and his plan was a success as Leavanny made a upper slash with her claw covered in metal to outpower the Dragon move, he launched the apple high up in the sky.

''Use String Shot and smack him onto the ground.!'' Leavanny shot another streak of silk wrapping Flapple once again and crashing him down in the battlefield.

''Now bring him close and use Steel Wing with one claw and Leaf Blade with the other.'' Leavanny started to retract the silk as he charged both moves and slashed the dragon with an improvised multi-typed X-Scissor, Flapple rolled back still in apple form until it stopped and cracked open revealing that the Pokemon had fainted.

''Flapple is unable to battle! Leavanny is the winner!'' The referee shouted rasing his flag.

''Way to go, Leavanny!'' Ash congratulated the pokemon, the latter then took a bow to his trainer and got back to focus on the battle.

''Quite the creative, ending, fellas!'' The announcer said. ''Ash now has this in a 2 to 0, will Milo be able to turn this around?''

''Appletun, it's up to you!'' Milo released his last Pokemon, a fat dragon that looked somewhat similar to Flapple.

''And Milo's last stand is his ace, Appletun!'' The announcer said.

This time Rotom started to read the Dex entry without Ash asking. ''Appletun, the Apple Nectar Pokemon, Its body is covered in sweet nectar, and the skin on its back is especially yummy. Children used to have it as a snack.''

''Milo definitely wasn't going to make this facile.'' Burgundy said

''What do you mean?'' Bea asked.

''He knew Ash would be bringing two Grass Types so he prepared his team, A sunny day Eldegoss to use Fire attacks and two Dragon Types to resist Grass moves even further .'' Burgundy explained.

''Not to mention the fact that he only used Pokemon from Galar, meaning that Ash wouldn't be able to know exactly how to react.'' Cilan kept on explaining. ''If Milo, who claims to be the weakest Gym Leader uses an strategy like this, then I can't imagine what the rest of the Gym leaders could do...This League will surely be a challenge to Ash.''

''Apple Acid!'' Appletun spitted a green acid and damaged Leavanny burning some of his leaves.

''Now Dragon pulse!'' The Apple Pokemon then fired a purple dragon-shaped beam of energy.

''Block it with Steel Wing.'' Leavanny tried to perform the attack but the burn made him flinch and he received the attack directly falling back, but he quickly got up resisting the pain.

''LEAVA!'' Leavanny shouted as his body was surrounded by a light-green aura.

''Leavanny's Swarm is activated, his Bug moves are gonna be way more powerful now!''

''Seems like it's time then.'' Milo activated his Dynamax Band and tipped his hat as he returned his Pokemon and the ball grew in size. ''Appletun, Gigantamax!'' Of the giant ball then came out a giant apple covered by dripping nectar, the apple then opened revealing a long neck and a long tail as the giant Pokemon let his tongue out.

''Get ready, Ash, you're about to be uprooted!''

''Milo...''

''Yeah, I think I should stop.'' Milo admitted embarassed.

''Leavanny, Signal Beam!'' Leavanny released a way bigger beam due to the power-up of Swarm landing directly on Appletun's face leaving him seeing little Torchics running over his head.

''Appletun is confused, people!'' the announcer shouted.

''Use G-Max Sweetness to heal yourself!'' Milo yelled and the Pokemon managed to get through the confusion and understand him creating a giant apple on top of his head, the apple then exploded into a sea of acid that healed Appletun and knocked Leavanny out.

''And with one single move Appletun got rid of both Leavanny and the confusion!'' The announcer shouted again. ''The Janitor is gonna have it rough today!''

''Leavanny is unable to battle! Appletun is the winner!'' The referee said raising a flag.

''Thanks, Leavanny.'' Ash returned the Bug type and seeing how Pikachu was still tired, he searched for another Poke Ball. ''Snivy, I choose you!''

The snake Pokemon got out of his Pokeball while crossing her arms as usual, however her confidence broke a little as she noticed the kind of opponent she was facing, Snivy then looked at Ash with a rather worried look.

''Don't worry, Snivy, I know you can do it!''

''VY!'' The pokemon nodded and braced itself for the battle.

''Appletun, Max Wyrmwind!'' The giant pokemon opened its mouth expelling a strong purple wind that pushed Snivy back.

''Try to hold with your vines!'' Ash ordered as Snivy dug her vines on the ground trying to not be blown away by the attack, however, seeing this, Appletun gave the move more force sending Snivy flying.

''This is so sad, Someone play the Psyducktales moon theme!'' The announcer shouted again.

''Snivy, use Attract!'' Still mid-air, Snivy winked creating pink hearts that flew towards appletun and shrunk into him, making him fall in love.

''We got him!'' Ash said as Snivy landed safely.

''G-Max Sweetness to heal yourself again!'' Milo shouted but The Pokemon was unable to listen due to the infatuation.

''Wake up Appletun.'' Milo tried to talk to his Pokemon. ''She doesn't love you! She doesn't even like you man! G-Max Sweetness!'' Instead of using the move that Milo ordered, Appletun expelled another Max Wyrmwind up to the skies in order to not damage Snivy and just like that, the three turns ended and Appletun returned to his normal size, still in love.

''And Gigantamax time is over!'' The announcer shouted. ''Love is so cruel!''

''Appletun, Dragon Pulse!'' Still in love, the Pokemon simply stood there looking at snivy.

''Appletun, come on, She doesn't love you and she will never love you too! You don't even cross her mind!''

''Snivy, use Twister!'' Snivy quickly started to run around Appletun gaining speed until she created a purple tornado that sent the Dragon flying upwards.

''Appletun!''

''End this off, Aerial Ace!'' Snivy jumped in the air as her tail glowed white and was surrounded by wind, she then slashed Appletun mid-air and the dragon was left knocked out.

''Appletun is unable to battle! Snivy is the winner and the victory goes to Gym Challenger Ash Ketchum!''

''And it's over! Ash Ketchum has defeated Milo!'' The announcer said as the whole stadium cheered as loud as ever giving Ash an standing ovation.

''That was amazing, Snivy.'' Ash rubbed the head of his Pokemon congratulating her.

''Proper Job, Ash, you took us out by the roots.'' Milo said walking towards him while clapping.

''...''

''Yeah, I know, I know...as proof that you had defeated me I present you the Grass Badge.'' Milo offered Ash a golden badge with the design of a green leaf inside it.

''Just grass Badge?'' Ash asked.

''What do you mean?''

''Doesn't it have a creative name like Jungle badge, Forest Badge or Weed badge?''

''Nope, just Grass.'' Milo said with smile.

''Well, okay.'' Ash then took the badge on his hand and raised it. ''I won the Grass badge!'' He shouted in his victory pose as his three Pokemon celebrated with him.

''He still does that, huh?'' Cilan said smiling.

''A pose de victoire? Pretty childish if you ask me.'' burgundy said.

''I think it's kinda sweet.'' Bea said laughing a bit.

''Very good, one down, seven to go.'' Milo said to Ash. ''I wish you good luck in the rest of your challenge Ash; and thanks for the battle.''

''Thanks to you too, Milo.''

After changing clothes, Ash left the locker room with Pikachu on his shoulder and closed the door, suddenly someone who was waiting outside called him.

''Hey, Ash, very nice battle you had!'' Next to the door of Ash's locker room was a slim dark-skinned woman who was wearing a coat, a hat and a pair of sunglasses, obviously trying to hide her identity.

''Thanks...hey, wait a minute, aren't you Nes-'' Ash recognized her voice but she quickly covered his mouth.

''Ssh, don't say it out loud or this place will get crowded with paparazzi.'' She lowered her sunglasses to look him in the eyes. ''They'll publish things like we are a couple or something.''

''I see, sorry.'' He apologized.

''It's alright, I suppose you're still not used to being Mr. Popular, I came back to Galar as soon as I finished with Valerie, I wanted to see if I still had time to be your first Gym battle but it looks like I am a little too late.''

''Well, sorry about that too.'' Ash apologized again.

''Oh, don't be, it's not like I expected you to wait for me, I should be the one that waits actually.''

''How so?''

''Oh nothing, now come on, I'll take you to Hulbury in my limo and we'll have our battle right away.'' Nessa grabbed him by his wrist and started to drag him out of the stadium, giving Ash a weird Dejavu.

''Hold on, we have to wait for Bea.''

''Who's Bea?'' Nessa asked.

''Ash!'' The aforementioned called as she walked towards them with Cinderace, Cilan, Burgundy and Milo following her from behind. ''Where are you going? And who is she?''

''Bea, this is Nessa, she's the Gym leader of Hulbury.'' Ash presented the two girls. ''Nessa, this is Bea, she's traveling with me through Galar.''

''Well, sure, your girlfriend can come too, I don't mind.'' Nessa said.

''I'm not his girlfriend!'' Bea shouted.

''Are you seriously going to do the 'I'm not his girlfriend' routine?'' Cinderace asked with a raised eyebrow. ''That's so overused.''

''Not as overused as Therian Landorus, heeeey!'' Pikachu pointed with a funny look.

''...''

''What? I tried.''

''Are you sure you're not his girlfriend?'' Nessa asked playfully getting closer to Ash, placing her arm over his shoulder. ''You might regret saying that later.''

''...Get off of him.'' Bea said under her breath.

''What?'' Ash asked not understanding the situation.

''Can we go with you too, Ash?'' Cilan asked. ''As much as I enjoyed the battle, you only used Pokemon that I already knew, I want to see what else do you have up your sleeve.''

''Geez, I would like to accompany you as well'' Milo said. ''But, I'm a bit too busy right now, guess I'll watch you in the TV, good luck, Ash!''

''Thanks, Milo.''

''What a shame.'' Nessa said. ''Since I watched your battle in person, I expected you to watch mine in person too, we're rivals after all.''

''Are you still with that?'' Milo said a bit annoyed. ''I already told you I don't need a rival.''

''Yeah, yeah, well, looks like everything is set.'' Nessa said. ''Get in everyone, we're off to Hulbury!''

''That Pikachu can be troublesome, uh?''

''At least he won't have to deal with that anymore, now anytime he activates the band it will Dynamax instantly, no Poke Ball needed.''

''Yeah, sure, can we go back to sleep now?''

''You can go, sister, but I'll keep watching him for a while, I can't wait until we meet in person.''

''I'm the older sister and I say we both go to sleep.''

''You're only older for 10 seconds, that doesn't count.''