13.Ash's Rikoto Story

Chapter 76 Pokemon League Part 3

After his victory, Ash walks back to his friends and family, where his father, Red, is waiting with a proud smile. "Nice job, son," Red says, rubbing Ash's hair affectionately.

"Dad, stop it, it's embarrassing," Ash protests, trying to push his dad's hand away, though he can't hide the smile on his face.

Elena, Ash's sister, chuckles at the interaction. "Just let Dad do that, Ash. This is his first time seeing you in the League."

Alice, standing nearby, nods. "And I'm surprised that Rodney and Keira also made it into the Top 8 as well."

Rodney, hearing this, grins and responds, "Mhhh, the redhead made it, too... but that was obvious. He's a good trainer after all."

Keira chimes in, her voice full of excitement. "I was a bit disappointed to be in the same group as you, Ash... But we both did it! I can't believe it!"

Ash smiles at her, sharing in the excitement. "Yeah, we both made it. Let's see if we can face each other in the final rounds."

Just then, Rick saunters over, his usual smug expression in place. "So, the Quarterfinals now... never thought you three would make it to this point, haha!"

Ash can tell that Rick is trying to get under their skin, but he chooses to ignore him, noticing that the others are doing the same. Instead of engaging, Ash focuses on the support and camaraderie of his friends and family, ready to face whatever challenges the Quarterfinals might bring.

The stadium falls silent as the announcer's voice echoes through the arena. "Okay, now we announce the drawn battles for the Quarterfinals! The first battle is Pokémon Trainer Keira versus Pokémon Trainer Rodney!"

Both Keira and Rodney's eyes widen in surprise as the announcement sinks in. "Rodney and Keira?" Ash mutters, glancing between his two friends.

Alice, standing beside Ash, frowns slightly. "That's not good... It's going to be tough for both of them."

Keira quickly recovers from her initial shock and smiles at Rodney, determination in her eyes. "Nevermind, Rodney... This will be a great battle!"

Rodney nods, though a hint of nervousness flickers in his expression. "Yeah, Keira. Let's make it a battle to remember!"

The announcer continues, revealing the next matchups. "The second battle is Aromalady Blair versus Fisherman Nathaniel! The third battle is Fairytale Girl Faria versus Pokémon Trainer Rick!"

Rick smirks, his overconfidence showing through as he comments, "This will be easy as always, haha!"

The announcer then reveals the final pairing. "And the last battle is Artist Cord versus Pokémon Trainer Ash!"

Ash takes in the announcement, his mind already working through potential strategies. He knows that every battle from this point on will be a true test of his skills and his bond with his Pokémon.

The announcer's voice rings out again. "We'll start with the first battle immediately, so please follow me, Pokémon Trainer Rodney and Pokémon Trainer Keira!"

Keira and Rodney exchange a final glance, both knowing that their friendship will be put to the test on the battlefield. With a nod of determination, they follow the announcer toward the stadium, ready to give it their all.

Ash and the others gather in the stands, watching intently as Rodney and Keira step onto the battlefield. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, knowing that this four-on-four battle will be a true test of their skills and determination.

The announcer's voice booms over the loudspeakers. "And now, let the first quarterfinal battle begin! It's Pokémon Trainer Rodney versus Pokémon Trainer Keira!"