1.Ash's Story (Part 2: Johto)

Chapter 35

The next day, we arrive at the gym, however, Clair says, "Since you're here, how about we do something different this time?"

"What do you mean?" I ask. And we are then taken to the Dragon's Shrine once more, and Kaburagi is there waiting for us. Ethan asks, "So are you going to battle here instead of the gym?"

"As long as we don't harm the flowers, it will be fine. Besides, there is a pool for us to use here as well." Clair says. "But before that, Kaburagi, can you explain the special Dragon Test?"

"Special Dragon Test?" Lillie asks.

Kaburagi says, "It is a special test that not even Clair herself can pass. However, after seeing your heroic deeds, you might be able to pass this one. No need to worry, you are to answer only a few questions."

"Okay..." I say, so I'm not going to fight the gym trainers... but it is fine for me.

"Let's begin. What are Pokemon to you? An ally, junior, or friend?" "To be honest, Pokemon are my friends, and I also respect their choices and treat them as equal."

"Oh, I understand. What helps you to win battles? Strategy, training, or cheating?" "Definitely not cheating. I might be able to use some strategies, but I like to train with my Pokemon."

"What kind of Trainer do you wish to battle? Weak, Strong, or anyone?" "I want to battle everyone. Because everyone starts off weak until they become stronger one day."

"What is most important for raising Pokémon? Love, violence, or knowledge?" "I prefer raising them with love."

"Strong Pokémon. Weak Pokémon. Which is more important?" "I think both of them are important."

"Hm... I see... You care deeply for Pokemon. Very commendable. The conviction is what is important! Ash, don't lose that belief. It will see you through at the Pokemon League."

Clair says, "And well done on going through the test. Now we can finally begin the battle."

It turns out that the match is going to be a four-on-four battle, and Clair says, "Seadra, I choose you!"

Her first Pokemon is the Seadra, and I say, "Snorlax! I choose you!"

Everyone is surprised that I bring back a Pokemon from my Kanto team for this battle. Clair says, "Geez, Ash. I don't know you have a Snorlax."

"Yeah, I decided to switch out my Pokemon with my Dad yesterday." I say.

"So I have to guess that Ash doesn't think his Johto Pokemon will be able to face against Dragon Pokemon..." East says.

"That was a pretty smart move by Ash." Lillie says.

I start with Hyper Beam, though Seadra dodges the attack with Agility. Seadra tries to hit Snorlax, but just bounces off of its bulky body.

"All of our attacks aren't doing a thing..." Clair says. "Its huge body is absorbing the flow..."

Then Seadra hits Snoralax with the Hyper Beam, and Snorlax barely dodges by going into the water.

"That is a quick thinking. Body Slam!" I say. The attack lands, causing both Pokémon to sink underwater. However, Snorlax begins to weigh less, allowing Seadra to float back to the surface unharmed. Clair tells Seadra to use Hydro Pump once Snorlax comes up for air.

"Snorlax... jump as hard as you can! Right out of that pool!" As Snorlax leaps into the air and Seadra fires a Hydro Pump, I order Snorlax to lean back, and it manages to successfully dodge the attack without sustaining any damage.

"Swift!" Seadra uses Swift, but I know Snorlax can take this one. Then Seadra uses Hydro Pump once more, but it only douses Snorlax's face.

"That's it, Snorlax. Seadra is starting to get worn out." I say.