"I… I think you might've mistaken me for him. We look nothing alike! Ah ha ha… ha!"

Even Adrien wasn't convinced over his futile attempt at a cover-up. He watched as the short old man on the Torterra scrutinized over his being before relaxing to an amused smile, holding a hand up as to calm him. Adrien stopped trying to sneak away walking backwards, now genuinely curious of the old man. On both sides of him, Plagg and Gallade lightened their guard, but didn't drop their wariness around this mysterious figure that somehow knew of their Trainer's significant secret.

"You have no need to fear, Liepard Noir, or rather, Adrien, as you would prefer," the old man continued. "Allow me to introduce myself. You may call me Fu."

"Uh, who are you exactly, Mr. Fu?" Adrien asked.

"Just call me 'Fu' please," Fu smiled. "Although if you feel compelled to be formal around me, then call me 'Master Fu.'"

"Master Fu," Adrien repeated thoughtfully. Given his old age and providing his title, Adrien was more curious about this mysterious figure. "Oh. Are you… or were you… a Pokémon Master?"

"I… suppose you could say that," Fu chuckled. "You can say that I was a strong Trainer in my youth, though even then, there would always be someone stronger and more skilled." His Torterra casted a peculiar look. It had been quite a while since Fu ever talked about his past. It certainly wasn't pleasant for either one of them, but they made it this far. "I'm sure you're starting to see this now as you travel through the Kalos region."

"Well, yeah," Adrien nodded. "I mean, not to brag, but I know my way around raising Pokémon and growing strong alongside them. I've won many battles, but like you said, there are stronger Trainers I'll get to meet." He immediately thought about Kagami and her impending challenge after his battle with Wayhem not too long ago. Even though he hadn't seen her battle style firsthand, he could tell that Kagami wasn't the type to boast of her skills, whether through words or body language, if she didn't have the power to back them up. And there was the fact that while she formally acknowledged him as the Kalos Champion's son, she identified him for himself and not the idealized hotshot many other Trainers aim to battle because of his father's challenge. "There are… some future battles I'm looking forward."

"I understand," Fu said. "Like I said, I started out like everyone else." He then glanced down upon his Torterra before climbing off his spacious back. "As you can guess, this Torterra, whom I've named Wayzz, is and has been my long-time companion from the beginning."

"Wow, so you really did start with a Turtwig," Adrien surmised in awe. "I saw a Turtwig back at Professor Damocles's Pokémon reserve when I got to find my first Pokémon, but I wound up meeting a Purrloin instead." As if on cue, Plagg proudly held his head high as to demonstrate himself as the Pokémon that Adrien was describing. "We've been through a lot since starting this journey, even when fifty percent of the time it's feeding him his favorite food."

Despite the blatantly implied dig at his eating habits, Plagg took it in stride, parading around him proudly that his fondness for cheese was being shared with others. Perhaps this experience would get his Trainer to have an open mind towards having cheese parties, with brands such as Moomoo Farm and Baa de Mer Ranch appreciated among those with refined tastes.

"Mm, all the good and the bad that you have faced with your Pokémon so far has guided your growth into a remarkable Pokémon Trainer and into a wonderful young man," Fu nodded. "I'm pleased to have seen this potential many months ago."

"Potential?" Adrien repeated.

"I must apologize first to you, Adrien," Fu continued. "While I can't see into the future, I was certain that once the ring you received back in Shalour City came to your hands, you would face many tough trials because of its power and face the possibility of disillusionment by the responsibility."

"The… ring," Adrien lifted his right hand up, examining the luster of the round Key Stone embedded upon its head. The dots were instantly connecting in his head as realization dawned upon his face. It was the first logical explanation that his mind drew together. "You… You sent this to me that day, didn't you?" Another nod from Fu prompted him to continue sharing his revelations. Adrien kept his composure the best he could, though his words were starting to fail him. "Wow… I… huh… I don't know what to say. Honestly, I don't know why you're apologizing. I mean, having a Key Stone is awesome! I was going to look for one at some point if my father wasn't going to help me. And ever since I had Gallade and got his Mega Stone while I was still at Shalour City, we've been trying out Mega Evolution whenever we could to see how much stronger we can get. So, thank you for this, Master Fu. Really!"

"I'm glad you've seen the bright side in owning a Key Stone, but I can tell you're wondering why I sent you one," Fu responded, receiving a nod from Adrien in return. "Let me also ask you this: have you noticed anything out of the ordinary when invoking Mega Evolution with that Key Stone?"

"Out of the ordinary," Adrien repeated in a mumble before looking back up to voice his thoughts. "Well, come to think of it, whenever Gallade and I really get into it, this… incredible surge of power fills the both of us." He immediately thought back to the instances he faced Team Akuma's manipulated victims alongside Lady Ledian and her matching Mega Gardevoir. "Gallade's attacks become more powerful. It feels so… wild, unrestraint, and very destructive." He somberly gazed upon his ring before looking back at Fu. "Too powerful, I think. And there was its strange effect of undoing the forced Bond Phenomenon fusions that Team Akuma had sent our way in the past with Lady Ledian's earring healing them after my Key Stone seems to tear them apart. Was this your doing, Fu?"

"I'm afraid yours and Lady Ledian's Key Stones happen to be among the very few exceptions," Fu shook his head before clearing his throat. "Tell me. Do you know of the legendary Pokémon of Kalos, Xerneas and Yveltal?"

"That's the thing!" Adrien answered. His curiosity had evolved into a dire need to know of the entire situation. It was more than mere coincidence that he would meet an old man who appeared to know him well, particularly his mysterious Key Stone. Any information he could get, he could warn Lady Ledian so that they could be better prepared for future Akuma encounters. "Team Akuma has mentioned them being related to our Key Stones, which is why I think they've been causing a lot of trouble just to lure me and Lady Ledian out into the open. They want our Key Stones. And do they really have the powers of Xerneas and Yveltal? And… how are you able to keep track of me?"

"This is why we were to meet at the moment, my young friend," Fu held his hand up to calm the anxious blond Trainer. "To answer your last question, I have a friend who has eyes all over the Kalos region, monitoring the very fabric of nature itself to prevent disruption to its balance."

"Who is this friend?" Adrien couldn't help but voice out.

"Patience," Fu replied calmly. "You'll understand this 'friend' once I share with you a story. And if you pay close attention, you might discover that I am close with another, one who, perhaps, persuaded you to investigate an abandoned mine. You probably met since you just came from Anistar City, yes?" Adrien nodded to the question, inciting an enigmatic twinkle in the old man's eye. "Very good. I believe you're quite versed with the story of the three-thousand-year old Kalos war."

"I am," Adrien said resolutely, preparing to describe the synopsis he formulated from his past studies. "The one where Kalos was about to be torn apart until the king back then unleashed a powerful weapon that obliterated all that participated in the war." He looked down gloomily as he recounted the recorded historical motivations behind the king's madness, personally taught to him by his own father, back when he was still a father and when she was still around. "The same weapon that brought back the beloved Pokémon he lost to the war. His unquenched rage and thirst for vengeance became his own undoing as his Pokémon left him following the resurrection, disgusted by both his actions and the lives of many sacrificed to restore that Pokémon's life."

"An excellent summary, Adrien," Fu praised. "It is my hope that with a brilliant mind like yours will understand a side account to the story."

"You mean, like from another witness?" Adrien filled in. His curiosity got the better of him, especially since he sensed no account of deception from the old man. Or maybe he believed that much in people. "How so?"

"Well, you know of the clashing parties involved in the Kalos War," Fu began with a cryptic smile. Adrien and his accompanying Pokémon soon found themselves enthralled by Fu's words as he began to weave his tale into their minds. "Let me tell you a story… of a group of specially trained warriors determined to bring peace and balance during the three-thousand-year old war…"


Back at the Anistar Pokémon Center…

"Can I trust you?"

Marinette's words echoed in Togetic's head as she continued to gaze upon the stone that shone with a dazzling light resting upon her Trainer's open palm. She was oblivious to the rest of her surroundings, including Marinette and her observing friends, as she was completely mesmerized by the Shiny Stone's alluring glow. The longer she stared into the Shiny Stone, the more alluring the pulsing light became.

Togetic knew that Marinette was still quite sore over losing to Chloé earlier today and she herself was peeved for losing to Honchkrow the way she did. They both had underestimated how far the spoiled brat had grown since they last saw her in Coumarine City. It was following their recovery from that battle in the Pokémon Center that Marinette placed the opportunity for Togetic to evolve back on the table.

However, the doubts and reservations that Marinette held upon bringing up the chance for evolution regarded their overall motivation in doing so. The line between gaining more power either for growth or for revenge was blurred, in this case. Togetic was aware of this, of how it factored into her decision in final evolution. It would have been easy to say that she wanted the power to get back at Honchkrow and Chloé for making Marinette sad, but was that really the right way to go about in the grand scheme of things?

No.

Togetic knew Marinette her entire life as she raised her straight out of her Pokémon Egg. She loved and trusted her with everything. Marinette was considerate enough to state out her intent with the belief that Togetic would be aware of the seriousness of their situation and make the decision with what she believed to be of the right reasons. As she knew, it would've been easy to say that she could've chosen evolution for the sake of revenge. That part was undeniable.

However, neither Togetic nor Marinette were of such vengeful personalities. If they were to battle Chloé again in the future, then they would have that chance to finally settle the score. But until then, they needed to become stronger.

And they both knew that the kind of power they sought after was possible through what lived in their hearts. They believed in each other, and they would do anything for one another.

Togetic's face hardened resolutely, sending a stubby arm forward to make her final decision.

Marinette felt the Shiny Stone in her hand move from its original central position due to Togetic's action, but the force wasn't enough to knock the stone away. Was Togetic trying to deny evolution? It didn't seem to be the case when Togetic kept a firm hold on the Shiny Stone, allowing it to take full effect upon her tiny body.

"Well?" Alix prompted impatiently, receiving her answer in the immediate second as a bright light soon emerged among all of them.

Due to the proximity, most of them slightly shielded their eyes with their hands so that they could still partially see the confirmed evolution take place. In Togetic's place was a brightly glowing form that flew high into the air before taking up free space nearby to allow her new body to form. She seemed to have grown almost as tall as her Trainer. Marinette and her friends witnessed as Togetic's arms were growing out as new broader wings while her original tiny wings on her back receded. Her head seemed to merge with the rest of her larger body while a distinctive triple-pointed crest formed upon her head's back. Her legs formed into small feet while the final touches were of her new small tail composed of three feathers.

"Tog-kiss!" the Jubilee Pokémon chirped as she broke out of the light of evolution.

Silence befell the whole group as Togekiss began to examine her new fully evolved form, starting with her new wings. Marinette stared in awe of her new Pokémon before a quick elbow jab from Alya pushed her to take forward steps. She had imagined that her Pokémon would one day take on this beautiful form, but even after seeing it take place before her own eyes, Marinette was still rendered speechless. It was only when she was nearing a foot close to her Pokémon that Togekiss took notice of her approaching Trainer.

Neither said anything to the other once their eyes met for the first time following the evolution, preoccupied by what the other was thinking. A few more seconds had agonizingly passed. Alya, Alix, Juleka, Nathaniel, Tikki, and Spinda anxiously watched to see the new development. Marinette, being the Pokémon Trainer, took the initiative to hold her hand out to touch Togekiss's new form.

Togekiss instantly responded by moving her head into Marinette's hand, allowing the aspiring fashion designer a feel of her soft and warm white down. Marinette continued to move her hand about against the side of Togekiss's face before moving higher to her three head spikes. The light touches caused Togekiss to giggle, which in turn brought a huge smile to Marinette's face as she continued her petting. Their joy radiated to the rest of their friends, whose hearts were touched on the close bond Marinette and Togekiss held even after the latter's voluntary evolution.

"Oh, Togekiss!" Marinette beamed, shifting into a wide embrace around Togekiss's head as the Jubilee Pokémon nuzzled against her. "Th-This is so amazing! You've become so beautiful! And you're still you!"

"Toge!" Togekiss exclaimed.

"See, girl?" Alya laughed. "There really was nothing to worry about! Way to go!"

"The trust you share mattered more than revenge," Alix added. "Even when you do go crazy when it comes to putting Chloé in her place or keeping competition off of Adrien, it's not who you are. You're better than that. We all knew."

"I know you'll defeat Chloé for sure in the Kalos League, Marinette," Nathaniel praised.

"Totally awesome," Juleka smiled.

"Thanks, you guys!" Marinette replied, holding her arms out as Tikki and Spinda soon joined for team affection. Tikki had flown directly to rest upon one of Marinette's shoulders while Spinda attempted to jump into her open arms. However, due to their mutual trait of clumsiness, Spinda slipped through Marinette's arms and was diving headfirst into the tiled ground of the Pokémon Center lobby. Fortunately, he didn't have to experience tasting the floor again as Togekiss had quickly ducked her head below Spinda, catching him and allowing the Spot Panda Pokémon to safely roll onto her back. "Whew… Nice catch, Togekiss!"

"Toge Toge!" Togekiss giggled.

"That's some reaction time," Alix whistled, approaching Marinette and her Pokémon. "Say, it's not that late yet. I'm curious to see what more strengths Togekiss gained from evolving." She held up a Poké Ball to enforce her point. "Whaddya say, Marinette?"

"Whoa, hold up there, Alix," Alya intervened. "My girl just got out of a stressful battle against Chloé. Be more considerate!"

"Tch, moping around because of one loss is no excuse," Alix scoffed.

"It's okay, Alya," Marinette grinned. "Although Alix could've been nicer about it…" Alix merely shrugged and muttered a low apology. "I think a bit more training until my Gym battle tomorrow might be a good pick-me-up. If it's okay, Alix, I want to use Feebas for our training session."

"Uh, sure, I've got no problem with that," Alix said bemusedly. "You're not going with Togekiss?"

"I'll work with both for tonight," Marinette explained. "It'll be helpful to know Togekiss's new abilities and to see how much more Feebas needs to prepare for her future evolution."

"Wait, so you already have a Prism Scale to evolve Feebas?" Alix questioned, to which Marinette nodded. "Why haven't you used it yet? Seriously! You'd be ten steps ahead of everyone, possibly including Adrien, with a Milotic on your team!"

"We have our own pace in progress," Marinette replied firmly. "I understand that most Trainers would jump at the opportunity, but my Feebas and I want to be ready to accept that step, just like Togekiss and I did today. Are you really going to question my methods, Alix?"

"Nah," Alix held her hands up to relent. "I was curious. Besides, I thought the point of beating Chloé was to do it your own way, right? Don't let me get in the way. I just had to make sure, even if it meant playing the part of the jerk."

"Wow, Alix, you would make a convincing villain with that kind of acting skill," Alya smirked.

"Heh, it's a gift," Alix shrugged. "C'mon, Marinette. Let's burn the sunset away!"

The short pink-haired tomboy was the first to bolt out of the lobby. Marinette shared bewildered glances with her Pokémon before they decided to follow Alix's trail out of the Pokémon Center, leaving Alya, Juleka, and Nathaniel behind.

"Well, I think I'm gonna explore Anistar City for a bit, maybe pick up some interesting intel," Alya announced, taking a couple steps forward before facing back to Juleka and Nathaniel. "What about you two?"

"I might, you know, work on a new performance routine, if that's cool… yeah," Juleka mumbled.

"I could probably help," Nathaniel offered. "I've sat in enough Showcases to hopefully be a constructive judge."

"Thanks," Juleka nodded as she and Nathaniel went to the exit.

"And then there was one," Alya muttered, pulling out her phone before being the last to leave the Pokémon Center. "Better set a reminder to reel everyone back in for a good night sleep. Girl can't win a badge if she falls asleep during the match because of late-night training."


The next day…

"This is it," Marinette muttered under her breath. She and her friends stood a mere distance in front of the great building officially sponsored by the Pokémon League. Her heart was pounding rapidly, though like previous instances of looming significant battles, she managed to steel up her nerves to prevent anxiety from crippling her. "The Anistar City Gym."

"Home to a powerful user of the Psychic-type," Alya shared her findings. "Interesting fact: it's also a place of study for people that said to be 'gifted,' in lack of better term. Like their own private school of sorts."

"Gifted, huh?" Alix snorted. "You mean like ESP, telepathy, bending spoons with your mind, all that psychic stuff?"

"Humans can really do that?" Nathaniel asked, him and Juleka expressing awe at the idea of having psychic powers.

"Some people can due to being born with powers first carried by their ancestors centuries ago because of the tales of magic and war back then, hence the 'gifted' adjective," Alya explained. "If you recall some history lessons we got back at the Academy, you'd remember that the topic of Aura Guardians was popular in our class for months."

"Heh, I remember that," Alix chuckled. "Kim wanted to shoot out Aura Spheres from his hands and instantly became jealous when I told him my brother owns a Lucario."

"Everyone has aura, but only a few are able to control it," Alya added. "It goes back to what I said about some people having psychic powers due to being born with those abilities. I don't think anyone in our class has been that blessed."

"I think Adrien can be capable of controlling aura," Marinette commented offhandedly to distract herself from pre-Gym battle jitters.

"You'd say anything about him to make him even more flattering to the masses," Alya smirked.

"What? I'm serious!" Marinette insisted, her face sporting a light pink blush when it came to Adrien as per usual. "I mean, how much do we really know about his family? With a well-known name like Agreste, surely, he's from some sort of noble house from the past, like maybe from a long line of gifted Aura Guardians or psychics that served Kalos royalty past generations?"

"Hmm, I would've pegged you for someone who'd already know everything there is about the Agrestes, Marinette," Alix joked, eliciting a mortified squeak from the aspiring designer before adding her afterthought. "Your wanting Adrien's name aside, you do have a point that we don't know a whole lot about his family, but then again, why should we? It's Adrien's business, and I don't think even he knows if there's anything beyond his dad being Kalos Champion. We shouldn't be prodding into things that are none of our business."

"What do you mean?" Marinette questioned, somehow not understanding the bluntness of Alix's message.

"Seriously?" Alix responded, critically raising a brow. "Y'know what? I don't think this is the time or place to bring up how bad your Adrien obsession has become, at least, how I think how bad it's become."

"What?! It hasn't gotten out of hand," Marinette said defensively.

"I'm sorry, just go in already," Alix urged, waving off the subject while gesturing to Marinette to enter the Anistar Gym. "Can't have you distracted and all that."

"Uh… okay," Marinette replied, obediently walking in with Juleka placing her hands on the shorter girl's shoulders to move her forward while Alya and Nathaniel trailed from behind with Alix. Alya appeared particularly peeved while Nathaniel looked concerned, engaging the tomboy in a whispering conversation out of Marinette's earshot.

"What was that all about?" Alya warned. "You could've thrown my girl off her game with that kind of talk."

"Well, excuse me if it's hard for any of you to hear, but honestly, you'd think there'd be some major progress for Marinette pursuing Adrien after four years of knowing each other," Alix huffed. "I mean, yeah, I get that everyone's different and they grow at different rates, but I can't exactly forget all those insane schemes you and Marinette came up with back at the Academy just to get her to hook up with Adrien and prevent Chloé or any girl for that matter from getting close to him."

"Hey! At least we rejected the notion to kidnap Chloé," Alya offered. "Kidnapping is totally too extreme for anything!"

"I shouldn't be listening to any of this, should I?" Nathaniel mumbled, wondering if he'd been in much trouble just for inadvertently listening in on his friends' suspicious behavior.

"Not now, Nath!" Alix hissed before facing Alya again. "All I'm saying is that Marinette needs to get it together now because my own gut tells me that her 'little' crush is diving into dangerous waters."

"I hear you, Alix," Alya sighed. "It'd be easier on all of us if pretty boy himself can read hints. Come to think of it, are they even ready for each other? We know everything on Marinette and I'm fairly certain Adrien's hiding something behind his perfect image." Alya shook her head distastefully. "I know that shouldn't be the case. Adrien is a gentleman and of course he'd treat my girl right! But now, talking about this now is making me feel skeptical. Man, I just want Marinette to be happy after the things she's been through so far."

"Sorry for putting a damper on your perfect world, but I care about her too," Alix looked down briefly. "That's why I had to get that off my chest. Spending the past few days with you guys kinda brought some new perspective. We're not the same as we used to be since graduating the Academy."

"Hey, um, I think you guys aren't giving Marinette enough credit," Nathaniel argued. "How about we save this for after the battle and root for her instead?"

"Fine," Alya and Alix agreed.

Concluding their impromptu conversation, the three of them finally noticed the fantastical insides of the Anistar City Gym. The cool air caressing against their skin upon entering inwardly indicated the spacious architecture that awaited them. They, along with Marinette and Juleka, looked about to take in the planetarium theme of the Gym.

The simplicity of the Anistar Gym was what made its designed theme stand out so well. The ceiling was curved into a dome shape, decorated like a night sky with glowing dots as stars drawing out constellations. Gold ring-like structures encompassed the huge chamber. Furthermore, the former Lumiose Academy kids discovered the glowing battlefield to be ahead, yet it appeared incredibly widespread. The battlefield was currently occupied by various people wearing matching violet robes, levitating with Psychic-type Pokémon in deep meditative peace.

One man among the group of psychics opened his eyes, sensing that there were visitors among them. His robes had a more intricate design, having a pattern of lighter shade of lavender circles to distinguish him from the rest. He and his Slowking levitated down to the ground floor to greet the visitors.

"Ah, welcome to the Anistar Gym!" the man began with a genteel bow. "You must be here for a Gym battle."

"Heh, what are you, psychic or something?" Alix snorted, much to the embarrassment of her friends.

"Alix!" Marinette scolded.

"Couldn't resist," Alix shrugged.

"No, no, it's fine," the man chuckled. "We certainly get that a lot. After all, there are only a few reasons why you would want to visit the Anistar Gym, challenging the Gym Leader being one of them."

"What's another reason?" Alya pressed.

"What you see before you are students honing their special bonds with Psychic Pokémon," he continued, flourishing an arm to present them. "These men and women have been gifted with particular talents since birth and, as such, have developed a strong affinity with Psychic-types. The Anistar Gym helps them learn to control and enhance their talents. Ah, but where are my manners? I was so excited to greet you that I failed to properly introduce myself." He held a hand out to Marinette, due to her being at the lead. "My name is Simon Grimault. I specialize in hypnotism and tarot reading."

"I'm Marinette Dupain-Cheng," Marinette responded, shaking his hand. "I'm the one here for the challenge."

"And we're her ever-supportive cheerleading squad!" Alya added cheekily. "I'm Alya Césaire."

"Name's Alix Kubdel," Alix saluted with two fingers.

"I'm Nathaniel Kurtzberg," Nathaniel followed.

"… Juleka Couffaine," Juleka greeted quietly.

"Very nice to meet you all," Simon nodded. "Anyway, pay no mind to the other students. They'll clear out once they sense a Gym battle on the way. If you all will follow me to the center, we can get this Gym battle underway."

The sensations the group felt as they traversed through the floating Psychics and their Pokémon were rather stimulating. The combination of cool air and psychic force exuded by the students sent chills down their backs. They soon reached the center of the battlefield, marked with the signature Poké Ball design, with Simon and his Slowking facing them.

"So, Mr. Grimault, how is this going to go down?" Marinette asked. "A three-on-three battle? Or do you have other battle rules?"

"Oh, forgive me, but you won't be facing me," Simon waved his hand. "I am but the lead apprentice. And you can just call me Simon."

"You're not the Gym Leader then?" Marinette continued, looking back at Alya, who could only shrug back.

"I'm afraid not, but the Gym Leader's on her way," Simon replied cryptically.

"I don't see anyone else here aside from the other students," Alya noted.

Simon didn't say anything else, instead stepping back along with Slowking with his head slightly tilted up. Marinette and the others caught on and looked up, witnessing the bizarre sight of a hooded woman, whose body was outlined with psychic power, slowly floating down upon them with her feet touching the exact center of the Poké Ball outline of the battlefield. No other Pokémon seemed to have joined her in her descent, indicating her great psychokinetic prowess.

Her robes were different from the Psychic students. They were a shade of tan that one would find on a regular trench coat. The design of her cloak composed of light-green outlines of a Pokémon Alix immediately recognized as the mythical Pokémon, Celebi, due to it being one of her favorites from the many myths and legends, with the legendary Dialga following from behind. She admired Pokémon associated with time as she considered herself as someone who'd take the option of going back in time to right a wrong, though Alix was working on taking responsibility better as of lately. The only other defining piece on her outfit was a yellow brooch with a peculiar engraving pinning her cloak together at the front.

The woman removed her hood, revealing her kindly elderly face, vibrant green eyes, and grey hair tied in a bun. Her smile was rather mysterious as she began to address the younger generation.

"I've been expecting you, young lady," she began. "Marinette Dupain-Cheng, was it? Lovely name, by the way."

"U-Uh, yes and thank you," Marinette replied, quickly bowing out of politeness. "Who are you?"

"I am Marianne Lenoir, Gym Leader of Anistar City and teacher of the psychic arts," Marianne responded in kind. "My leading apprentice, Simon, must've already shared everything that is the Anistar Gym to you youngsters, has he not?"

"He has, but if I may, ma'am," Alya interjected, holding up a hand to further ask. "In my findings on Anistar City and its Gym, why have you censored your identity as Gym Leader? All other cities have had their Gym Leaders publicly known, including the newest Laverre Gym Leader, Luka."

"That's true," Alix added. "Not even my brother or dad knew who was running the Anistar Gym these days, but they did mention your name a few times. We were under the impression that you retired long ago."

"I'm afraid my role in this world is not yet complete," Marianne shook her head, turning her back to them. "As for why I've hidden my identity, well, that's my preference. As you can see, I'm not getting any younger. Heh heh… Any day now, I will step down and I will recommend Simon to succeed me as Anistar Gym Leader. On that day…" She looked at her celestial ceiling rather wistfully, thinking about someone she knew was constantly hard at work and was hiding away for his safety. "… Maybe the balance of nature will finally be stable."

"You honor me greatly, Madame Lenoir," Simon lowered his head in respect along with Slowking.

"I'm afraid I don't understand what you mean about your 'role in this world'," Marinette admitted.

"Tell me, young ones, what do you believe about fate?" Marianne asked.

"Um, fate, Ms. Lenoir?" Marinette repeated.

"Please call me Marianne, my dear," Marianne insisted as she turned to face her.

"Oh, um, okay, M-Marianne," Marinette corrected herself. "Anyway, isn't fate supposed to represent a series of events meant to happen from the future?"

"That is the definition of fate, yes, but I'm asking what your belief in fate is," Marianne clarified.

"I believe that we're all capable of making our own choices and paths, although it would be nice to know that the actions we perform in the present can really affect our future," Marinette offered. "Is that what you wanted to hear?"

"I see," Marianne nodded. "One more question for you, young challenger. If you believe that your actions in the present can amend a mistake in the past, would you do everything in your power to change the outcome? Even when presented with the power to alter time?"

"E-Excuse me?" Marinette responded, baffled by the question.

"Madame Lenoir has incredible powers, though she is well-known for her clairvoyance, her sight into the future," Simon explained. "Throughout her time as Anistar City's Gym Leader, she predicted disasters that would've shaken the Kalos region to its core. And thanks to her prophecies, our people have been prepared and we survived with no casualties."

"Okay, there's no way you could hide your identity with feats like that," Alya stated.

"On the contrary, it's thanks to my gifts that President André Bourgeois owed that much to me to keep my identity under wraps, simply explaining to the public that he has a team of psychics helping him protect the Pokémon community, which isn't entirely false," Marianne added with a mischievous twinkle. "Some older students and I did work together to ensure our visions weren't clouded by the shifting tides of time."

"That… makes a whole lot of sense," Alya relented.

"I believe we've talked enough," Marianne announced. "Marinette, I believe you will have an answer to my last question during our battle. I've been looking forward to it since you've pulled off an impressive victory over Nadja Chamack at the Lumiose City Gym."

"Wait, how did you…?" Marinette trailed off while Marianne simply smiled. The dark-haired designer giggled along with the established foresight joke. "Well, I hope you haven't foreseen the outcome of this battle yet, Marianne, because I will be the one to decide it."

"Admirable fortitude," Marianne lauded. "Shall we?"

The two of them had taken their places across the luminescent battlefield. The other students of the psychic arts, as well as their Pokémon, sensed the impending battle and relocated themselves to the golden-railed sidelines where Marinette's friends stood off to. Simon stood at the edge of the battlefield, officiating as the battle judge.

"This is an official Gym battle between Anistar City Gym Leader, Marianne Lenoir, and the challenger, Marinette Dupain-Cheng of Lumiose City," Simon declared. "The rules for this match will be a one-round Double Battle, in which both sides will select and send out two Pokémon at once. The battle will be over when both Pokémon on either side are declared unable to battle. There will be no substitutions and no time limit."

"Dang, and I was getting used to the three-on-three style," Marinette muttered. "I hope my Double Battle skills haven't gotten rusty. I haven't been in many of those."

"I will start us off," Marianne tossed out two Poké Balls, showing remarkable vigor that contrasted against her great age. "Xatu! Starmie! It's time!"

Her chosen Pokémon were difficult to read due to Xatu's constant emotionless staring and Starmie's apparent lack of a face. In any case, it was clear that they were both trained well and experienced many battles given their guarded body language.

Marinette considered her selection of Pokémon. Both of Marianne's Pokémon were weak against Electric-type attacks, but a gnawing feeling inside of her warned her that Marianne most likely prepared a defense against such a rudimentary tactic. In addition, she asserted that she didn't want to constantly rely on Gardevoir's strength, instead wanting to make sure the rest of her Pokémon gained experience to grow just as strong as her. The Embrace Pokémon was reserved for bigger threats, such as those of Team Akuma.

"Alright then," Marinette decided, calling out her two Pokémon. "Togekiss and Leavanny, you're both up!"

Togekiss performed a quick loop in the air upon materialization, thrilled for the chance to put her newest abilities to the test. She landed next to Leavanny, who smiled and nodded in appreciation for having her as her partner.

"The first battle as a Togekiss," Alya commented. "I know they've got this."

"I wonder if Marianne saw that coming," Alix quipped.

"This might be a tough battle for Marinette if her opponent is able to see everything in the future," Nathaniel mumbled.

"I think she just uses her power for bigger things, like natural disasters and stuff like that," Juleka pondered.

"That's pretty much it," a soft boyish voice intruded. "Madame Lenoir doesn't like abusing her powers when she can help it. A-At least, that's what she's told us."

Alya and the others noticed one of the Anistar Gym students who appeared around their age approaching them with an Espeon. The way his messy black hair hung close to his jade green eyes, as well as the slight quiver of his pink lips, had him carry an air of shyness. Aside from also wearing psychic robes, an article that distinguished him from the other students was a black choker. It was nice to find other Trainers his age that were spectating a Gym battle as usually there was usually one visitor, who was the challenger, on the battlefield against Marianne. Though the person that drew him to the former Lumiose Academy group the most from the small group was the solo boy with red hair.

"Hi," Nathaniel greeted, causing the student to slightly flinch. The red-haired artist pulled his waving hand back, opting for a way to be gentler. "Oh, uh, we're Marinette's friends."

"Y-Yes, I noticed," the boy nodded, shaking his head to stave off his nerves. "S-Sorry. Let me try again." He held a shaky hand out. "I'm Marc. Marc Anciel. A-And with me is my p-partner, Espeon." His Espeon mewled a greeting. "W-We don't get many outside spectators here. Just… challengers that go alone, you know."

"Right," Nathaniel nodded, shaking Marc's hand. "I'm Nathaniel Kurtzberg. Very nice to meet you."

"Alix Kubdel," Alix saluted.

"Alya Césaire!" Alya waved.

"Juleka Couffaine," Juleka smiled.

"N-Nice to meet you all," Marc bowed his head, turning to face the battle with a slight pink blush on his cheeks. Nathaniel… He's nice.

"Hey, Marc, if you don't mind telling, what're your powers?" Alix prompted.

"P-Pardon?" Marc was caught off guard from the blunt question.

"She means what do you specialize in," Nathaniel surmised mildly. "I'm sorry for her bluntness." Alix stuck her tongue out at that. "I'm curious too, if you don't mind."

"Oh, uh, h-have you heard of Inverse Battles?" Marc started. Nathaniel and Alix shook their heads. "Erm, how should I start…?"

And while Marc considered how to explain the concept of Inverse Battles in layman's terms to his delightful visitors and how he hoped to help popularize this new style of Pokémon battling, Simon had ensured that both the challenger and the Gym Leader were prepared to commence the match.

"Let the battle begin!" Simon announced.


Marinette Dupain-Cheng (Togekiss, Leavanny) VS Marianne Lenoir (Xatu, Starmie)


"Let's hit them fast!" Marinette started. "Leavanny, use Energy Ball on Starmie! Togekiss, into the air!"

Swift on her legs, Leavanny covered for her teammate's ascent with an Energy Ball launched from her mouth. Starmie appeared to remain in place as the Energy Ball flew in. What Marinette didn't expect to see was Xatu suddenly appearing in front of Starmie and using a wing to effortlessly dismantle the Energy Ball, stoic eyes illuminated with empowering psychic power.

"That Xatu's fast," Alya commented.

"Not only that, but Xatu was quick to defend Starmie without a command," Alix added. "Well, maybe she could've commanded them telepathically."

"Nope, Madame Lenoir has given vocal commands to her Pokémon for as long as I've studied here," Marc explained.

"Huh, in that case, Marinette might have a hard time keeping up with the coordination between Marianne's Pokémon," Alix whistled. "Can she handle that level of teamwork?"

"She'll keep up, don't worry," Alya assured. "If anyone's close with her Pokémon, it's Marinette."

"My dear, you shouldn't make your attempts so readable," Marianne chastised her young challenger. "Now it's my turn to make you guess. Future Sight!"

Xatu had spread her wings out while Starmie lifted itself into the air by spinning its back set of arms. The gem core of the Mysterious Pokémon brightened up like Xatu's eyes, aiming skyward, as Starmie circled its teammate. Both of their bodies were illuminated, channeling a temporal doorway above and sending volatile shards of psychokinetic energy into the portal.

"Future Sight… What does it do again?" Marinette muttered to herself. She recalled the lecture on Psychic-type moves with unique mechanics, but the moment Ms. Bustier began her discussion on Future Sight, Marinette remembered that she steadily lost interest on the topic and began to daydream her own sight of the future… with Adrien, if that wasn't already expected by now. Of course, delaying her actions wasn't going to net her a win. "They've dropped their guard. I've got to act. Togekiss, dive in! Leavanny, follow her with X-Scissor!"

Togekiss swooped down to disorient Xatu and Starmie with a gust of her flight trail, climbing back up to give Leavanny a clear slice. Since they were at close proximity within each other, Leavanny was able to catch the both of them within her X-Scissor swipe. Xatu slid back on her feet while Starmie was sent briefly dragging on its back due to the Bug-type move having greater potency on it compared to its half-Flying-type partner.

"Clever girl," Marianne smiled.

"Last night's last-minute training with Alix has helped me learn about Togekiss's new strengths," Marinette smirked.

"And you're already capitalizing on them?" Marianne questioned. "You really are a promising Trainer, my dear. But let's see how well Togekiss has adapted to her new form. Starmie, Psyshock! Xatu, Psychic!"

A vibrant medium-sized violet orb of energy formed before Starmie's core before bursting into a barrage of streaming shards. With her sharpened reflexes, Togekiss ducked to a lower elevation, permitting the Psyshock shards to sail overhead.

The danger would've been over if Xatu had not acted, spreading out her wings with eyes glowing and sending out her Psychic influence. Leavanny and Togekiss were on their guard, expecting to be mentally bound by Xatu's Psychic when they soon discovered no such sensation had been inflicted on their bodies.

"Above you!" Marinette screamed.

Her Pokémon did as their Trainer had warned, discovering the splintered Psyshock waves hovering overhead before divebombing upon them, pelting them hard. There was nowhere to run. The most they could do was to shield off as much damage as possible.

"None of my Pokémon have Keen Eye, but in a Double Battle, there's always a way to see your attacks hitting their mark," Marianne explained. "We've fought for a long time that we know where to hit and how to hit hard. If you're having trouble understanding what I mean, then I'd be happy to repeat the lesson. Please pay attention this time. Starmie, Psyshock! Xatu, Psychic!"

"Dodge their attacks no matter what!" Marinette retaliated, unable to come up with a counterplan at the moment. Double Battles were taxing due to having to keep track of so many things going on. At least at a Tag Battle, she had her one Pokémon to worry about as she would trust her partner to work synchronously well with her. This was exhausting. "Hang in there!"

The dark-haired designer watched as Xatu and Starmie pulled off their maneuver with a Psychic-guided Psyshock. This time, Starmie had unleashed more power in its Psyshock, providing more firepower for Xatu to control and use against her Pokémon. Fortunately for Marinette, Leavanny was quick on her feet, sidestepping and ambling about to evade the Psyshock waves targeting her. However, at the same time, though Togekiss's senses were sharp, her larger body didn't quite accommodate the required amount of speed needed to avoid all the Psyshock waves gunning her down. Her improved defenses as Togekiss would afford some hits, but Marinette didn't want to test her luck on how many attacks the Jubilee Pokémon could take in total before being forced to retire from the battle.

"Togekiss, use Air Slash!" Marinette ordered.

Now switching to the offensive, Togekiss turned to face the remaining Psyshock shards. Her large wings glowing, Togekiss released a gust of multiple crescent blades of wind to clash with the Psyshock, canceling out the front psychokinetic waves at an even display of might. The second wave from behind, however, dispersed into different directions once Xatu became wise of her opponent's capabilities, making it difficult for Togekiss to annul her next attack.

"This is not looking good," Alya gritted her teeth. "C'mon, girl! Hustle!"

"I have to stop Xatu," Marinette decided. "Leavanny, use String Shot on Xatu!"

"Oh?" Marianne hummed.

The Anistar Gym Leader observed expectantly as Leavanny sprayed a stream of sticky silk threads to immobilize the Mystic Pokémon. Xatu's focused concentration made it hard for Togekiss to flee from her Psychic-controlled Psyshock waves. Starmie was preoccupied with providing additional Psyshock waves for Xatu to throw at their opponents, so even if it dropped its current activity, it would be far too late. This was why Xatu always had a trick up her wing for any move thrown her way.

Xatu abruptly turned her head to see the incoming String Shot. Her sudden widened eyes didn't express fear. Rather, they exhibited her Ability as a glow emanated from them once more. In a bright flash, Leavanny found herself panicking as she was inexplicably ensnared by silk threads. Her own silk threads.

"What?!" Marinette yelped.

"Part of being a soothsayer is looking far ahead into the future and preparing the best you can for every outcome," Marianne winked. "This is where Xatu's Magic Bounce comes into play. I trust you're familiar with how it works, yes? I'm certain one of your friends has a Pokémon that knows the move equivalent, Magic Coat."

"Yes, I do," Marinette frowned, knowing full well what was going on now. Training with Alya and Trixx familiarized herself with how status moves could be reflected and used against the user. Leavanny was currently struggling within her own String Shot while Togekiss was sent diving down near her from futilely flying from the Psyshock. "No!"

"I'm afraid you're not ready to move on just yet," Marianne closed her eyes.

As if on cue, a portal appeared directly over Leavanny and Togekiss, raining the terrifying power of Future Sight upon their heads. The amount of energy was incredible, having been foreseen by both Xatu and Starmie. Marinette muffled her scream behind her hands as the last of the Future Sight onslaught ended with a smoky aftermath covering a huge area of the battlefield, hiding all Pokémon within its hazy cloak.

Alya and the others were awed into silence from witnessing Marianne's skills of foresight, honed by age and experience. How she was prepared for Marinette's tactics just by having the right Ability for the right move. She even managed to keep Marinette's attention on the coordinated Psychic and Psyshock combination attack so that Marinette wouldn't react in time to when the double Future Sight struck. It was quite daring to remark that Marianne could see into the future, but it was another thing to say that she was manipulating the tides of fate herself, at least in this Gym battle.

As the smoke cleared…

Leavanny and Togekiss were… still standing?

"No way," Marc was the first to break the silence among the group. "They withstood Madame Lenoir's attacks?"

"What trickery is this?" the other Anistar Gym students murmured among each other around them. "Madame Lenoir had that girl's Pokémon on the ropes!"

"There is none," Alya explained, shaking her head with a laugh of relief. "It's sheer willpower. Marinette refuses to give up. She's been in tighter situations before. This one is no different."

"Your youthful determination impresses me, Marinette, but I hope you realize your own Pokémon's limits," Marianne warned. "It's clear to me, well to anyone for that matter, that your own drive serves as your Pokémon's foundation in battling. They have so much energy left to continue, but I'm afraid you're running out of time." She narrowed her eyes, briefly thinking back to the moment she and he had to go their separate ways. Even though she knew where he was right now, they couldn't reunite yet. Not until the balance of nature was safe at last. He always did take his life's mission seriously, which was what made him so admirable to her. All those years ago… "Can you go on with your future without regret? Future Sight!"

With the field now clear and Marinette's Pokémon showing signs that they were ready to continue, Xatu and Starmie levitated themselves to devote their combined power into another temporal doorway. Marinette carefully observed the first step of Future Sight once more, mentally calculating a defense against the seemingly unavoidable assault. She was relying on her memory and intuition regarding the measuring of the time span for Future Sight, as well as its method of attack.

"Hey, pardon me for prying, Marc, but there's something about Marianne that makes her look, I dunno, kinda wistful?" Alix remarked. "I might be overthinking it, but the way she carries herself and all those things she's been lecturing Marinette on during the battle about the future and deciding fate, I can't help but feel that there's something interesting going on."

"One of Madame Lenoir's favorite activities is to reminisce about the past," Marc explained. "She's… um, nostalgic like that. She's really cool that she shares a lot of exciting stories when she was a young woman, having been involved in a lot of battles. She especially talks about this one friend of hers she misses who's currently on some sort of top-secret mission. She calls this friend of hers 'Fu Wang', I-I think."

"Huh, interesting," Alix muttered. "Heh, from the synopsis alone, it almost sounds like this Fu guy was the one that got away."

"Alix, be nice," Alya jabbed her elbow into the shorter girl's side, much to Alix's chagrin.

"Sorry, sheesh," Alix grumbled. "I wasn't trying to make fun of her just because we're kinda in a similar situation right now."

"Alix, he doesn't need to know," Alya castigated, not wanting random people to know of her BFF's piteous situation regarding her love life. "Man, what's with the attitude lately?"

"Not saying anything more," Alix held her hands up in surrender, but not before pantomiming her mouth being zipped up.

"Don't worry about them," Nathaniel chuckled as to ease Marc's apprehension around the girls' intense personalities. "They mean well, and they really do care for each other. That's friends, for you."

"O-Oh, that's really nice," Marc lowered his head bashfully. "H-Hey, Nathaniel?"

"Yes, Marc?"

"C-Can we… be friends?"

"I don't see why not," Nathaniel shrugged his shoulders. "You make Inverse Battles sound really interesting. Maybe you have a way with words like a storyteller?" It was his turn to look away. "Anyway, at least you have something you work towards…"

"I-I'm sorry?" Marc prompted.

"I… don't really know what I want to get out of my journey," Nathaniel sighed. "The most I've been doing is drawing Pokémon in action."

"A-Ah, m-mind if I take a look at your dr-drawings?" Marc asked. "Uh, after the battle, of course!"

"Sure," Nathaniel grinned, strangely feeling at ease with the new boy enough to make him want to show off his recent Pokémon Showcase sketches.

"Time to get back into this battle and really give it our all!" Marinette declared. "Leavanny, get on Togekiss!"

Togekiss had lifted off into flight, but not before slowing down by the ground for Leavanny to board her back. Seeing as they were both airborne now, Xatu and Starmie took off after them. The next phase of the fight was now in the airspace of the spacious Anistar Gym.

"I wonder how you plan on defying fate this time, my dear," Marianne commented.

"It's time we took control," Marinette began. "Leavanny, Energy Ball! Togekiss, Air Slash!"

Her dedicated Pokémon began their offensive counterattack with Togekiss flapping condensed blades of wind and Leavanny lobbing her Energy Balls to strike down Starmie. The Mysterious Pokémon was fast and evasive when spinning in the air, though its teammate was not as agile. Xatu endured through the Air Slashes and Energy Balls flying her way before instinctively resorting to use Psychic to repel the projectile special attacks.

"You won't win with brute force alone," Marianne advised. "Xatu, use Psychic! Starmie, Scald!"

"Protect!"

Leavanny focused while clinging onto Togekiss's back, encapsulating herself and her soaring partner in a spherical barrier of light-green light and drifting in the air as Xatu's telekinetic force and Starmie's stream of steaming hot water failed to penetrate the Protect. Upon seeing them cease their attacks from the futility, Togekiss charged in as fast as she could while Leavanny carefully released her Protect bubble.

"Nifty trick you've got there, but now I know. Starmie, after them! Scald once more!"

"String Shot!"

Starmie had positioned itself behind Togekiss, taking aim for another Scald. Its defenselessness allowed Leavanny to ambush it with a spray of tough threads, restraining its entire body and preventing it from spinning its back arms to fly. Starmie was now reduced to a living kite for the Nurturing Pokémon, at least that was what Marianne was letting Marinette believe for a few seconds.

"Excellent display of teamwork," Marianne lauded. "I'm sorry I have to do this though, my dear. Rapid Spin!"

"And you didn't think I didn't see Starmie's attempt to break free coming?" Marinette smirked, which actually caught Marianne off guard as she quickly discovered her oversight of the situation. "Energy Ball!" Leavanny sent a quick sparkling green orb down the thread to disorient Starmie, preventing it from following through its command. "Now slam it down!"

"A-Ah! Xatu, Psychic!"

"Togekiss, Air Slash!"

The plan had been for Togekiss to dive close to the ground with Leavanny pulling Starmie along for the ride, before it regained the might to slice out of her threads with its Rapid Spin. The tight abrupt turns Togekiss made in her flight fortunately disrupted Starmie's concentration, permitting Leavanny to swing the Mysterious Pokémon like a mace. Xatu flew into Togekiss's path with the intent to disrupt the plan, only to be blindsided by Togekiss's Air Slash before she could strike back.

Starmie was sent landing on its back hard from the swing before being dragged along the ground and brought back up when Togekiss ascended. It was back to square one with it being used as an airborne kite against its will.

Marinette glanced at the center airspace of the battlefield expectantly. It had been a while now since Starmie and Xatu had enacted their second Future Sight combination attack. Her gut feeling was reacting to a measured passage of time. Based from previous experience, she knew that it was coming very soon. She timed it right as the Future Sight portal started to open from above.

"It's Future Sight!" Alya alerted.

"How about we give you a taste of your own medicine," Marinette quipped. She trusted her Pokémon to do the rest. "Try to escape this fate! Leavanny, Energy Ball! Togekiss, Extrasensory!"

Leavanny flung Starmie into the direction of the portal, but before severing her thread, she sent an additional Energy Ball along the line to ensure total compliance, disorienting Starmie as soon as it was seemingly free from the String Shot threads.

Xatu was shaking off the damage the Air Slash left on her, only to discover herself being bound by Togekiss's influence. The Jubilee Pokémon twisted the direction of her body, flinging Xatu the same way her teammate had done with Starmie.

The mass barrage of Future Sight was falling in. As it just so happened, Starmie and Xatu were caught between it and the intended targets of Leavanny and Togekiss. They suffered the same heavy and explosive fate with their bodies falling onto the ground afterwards. The smoke cleared from the airspace seconds after with Togekiss descending back to the ground on their side of the battlefield.

Unsurprisingly enough, Xatu and Starmie got back up, though this time, they actually appeared worn down and tired unlike during the first phase of the match.

"You got her on the ropes now, girl!" Alya cheered.

"Talk about what goes around comes around," Alix whistled.

"Well, well, it's really not everyday a Trainer and her Pokémon like you would use Future Sight against me like that," Marianne chuckled before her face became hard as stone. "Now you've got my full attention. I will foresee your inevitable loss myself."

"It doesn't matter what you'll throw at me, we'll just keep standing back up when we're knocked down!" Marinette proclaimed.

"Ah, but can you handle this last phase?" Marianne rebutted. "Xatu, Trick Room!"

Xatu had spread her wings out and wide like before, only this time, she was channeling a huge portion of her power to seal them all into a pocket dimension wherein even the laws of physics were warped. Glowing tiles upon tiles were materializing around the entire battlefield, building themselves large and tall. Marinette could only gape in wonder that she was witnessing the interactive aesthetics of Trick Room before her very eyes, covering a yelp when the last of the tiles had sealed her, her Pokémon, and Marianne and her Pokémon within a box imprisonment.

"This… might be bad," Alya muttered grimly. "We've only read about Trick Room and similar moves to it. We've never really had a chance to practice with it at the Academy."

"Trick Room is a move that many advanced Trainers like to use as part of their special gimmicks, overcompensating for their weaknesses," Alix sneered. "I hate that move with a passion!"

"Er, why?" Juleka asked. "What does it, you know, do again?"

"I think it'd be better to see for yourself, Juleka," Alix replied as a result of her distaste for the move.

"There've only been a few instances that Madame Lenoir would resort to invoking Trick Room," Marc shared. "Either she knocks out the challengers' Pokémon quickly or vice versa. When the Gym battle lasts this long and gets this intense, she brings Trick Room out to truly test her opponents."

"Wow, I wonder how Marinette can get out of this one," Nathaniel mumbled.

"This… box cage isn't going to scare me!" Marinette retaliated. "I'm ending this now! Leavanny, use X-Scissor!"

"Xatu, Telekinesis!" Marianne intervened.

The normally slow-moving Xatu had somehow acted quicker, casting a telekinetic wave upon Leavanny. The Nurturing Pokémon soon found herself being lifted off from the ground by an invisible force. She still had control over the physical actions of her body. She didn't understand why she was suddenly floating helpless into the large airspace of the Anistar Gym.

"Leavanny!" Marinette cried before sending a glare back at the elderly Gym Leader. "What did you do?!"

"The move Xatu just used is Telekinesis, which rendered your Leavanny vulnerable to all attacks for a period of time," Marianne explained. "Though I'm certain you're also wondering why Xatu is moving so fast all of a sudden. Well, dearie, that's the power of Trick Room. Pokémon that are normally fast are the last to act while slow-moving Pokémon like my Xatu get to go first."

"Ohhh," Juleka hummed as she understood Alix's previous disdain for the move.

"You get it now?" Alix huffed. "Trick Room renders speed useless, which completely negates everything my Pokémon and I have worked for!"

Unsure on how else to calm the tiny tomboy down, Juleka simply gave her a soothing, albeit awkward, pat on the shoulder. Surprisingly, Alix was receptive to the gesture and looked up to the taller girl appreciatively.

"Gah! Keeping track of all these speed changes is making my head hurt," Marinette groaned. "So wait, if Xatu went first, that means she was the slowest before Trick Room, right? But then, when Leavanny tried to move, she couldn't move fast enough to defend. Then that means that if Togekiss attacks, then she'll be fast because of Trick Room. Aha! Got it!"

"Too slow, dearie," Marianne chastised. "Starmie, Scald!"

Marinette's deliberation over Trick Room's mechanics had cost her time as Starmie seized the opportunity to fire its Scald stream at the airborne Leavanny. While a Water-type attack was of no concern against Leavanny, Marinette could see that something was off when the attack had hit and Leavanny was wailing from the steaming hot water.

"Wait a minute, that Scald seems different, like… there's more water… and pressure behind it," Marinette realized with a gasp. "It's stronger!

"You have very keen senses, Ms. Dupain-Cheng, for what you're seeing now is Starmie's Analytic," Marianne explained. "Because Trick Room is forcing it to move slower compared to the other Pokémon, the power behind Starmie's moves is increased by a large margin. Consider it as another trial to overcome in addition to the Pokémon's inverted speeds."

"Ugh, just great," Marinette griped to herself. "Now I have to deal with a Xatu with faster reflexes and a powered-up Starmie." After listing off the downsides of battling in an active Trick Room, the upsides flooded her mind just as quickly, giving her something to work with. "This means both my Pokémon are faster than Starmie! I've got to act now." She resumed her attention to the battle, her Pokémon waiting further orders. Even when rendered airborne, Leavanny was still able to use her moves. "Leavanny, Protect for as long as you can! Togekiss, fly away!"

"Xatu, after Togekiss!"

The distorted laws of physics within Trick Room afforded Togekiss a great boost in speed. However, she was apparently faster than Xatu outside the Trick Room as the Mystic Pokémon was able to catch up and intercept her no matter which direction she flew off to.

"Togekiss, use Air Slash!"

"Psychic!"

Xatu had bound Togekiss completely, exerting greater telekinetic force on her body than simply keeping her aloft. Togekiss's wings were still glowing in preparation for Air Slash. The Jubilee Pokémon mustered enough willpower to force out some wind blades to assault Xatu with before ceasing completely due to Psychic's grip.

"Togekiss is in trouble," Marinette muttered grimly. "This is really bad."

Her eyes shifted to where Leavanny was, currently at Starmie's mercy. Leavanny's barrier was starting to dim at this point. Marinette was running out of options. She needed to go all in now. Leavanny was crucial in her plan to seize victory in the Anistar Gym, but first, she needed to get the attention off her. Even with the type advantage, the Nurturing Pokémon wouldn't survive against another prolonged Analytic-enhanced Scald spray at this rate.

"Do you regret it?" Marianne asked. "Do you regret challenging me without proper preparation to face your fate?"

"How about you face this instead!" Marinette retaliated. Despite the brace face she wore, she was completely breaking down on the inside. If this did not work, then not only would she lose, it would be known that Marinette lost to a Gym that Chloé Bourgeois conquered and earned its badge. And worst of all, Adrien would see how much of a total failure she was. "I could use my lucky charm right now. Togekiss, Metronome!"

This was a deciding moment. Sheer willpower alone allowed Togetic to break out of Xatu's Psychic and bounce back at a safe distance before waving the tips of her wings back and forth hypnotically. Everyone was at a standstill. All eyes, including those from spectating friends and psychic students, were upon Togekiss as she performed her Metronome ritual.

Nearly ten long seconds passed and Togekiss held up her wings, the power of Metronome beginning to manifest into a random move. A binding pressure sensation started to fill the entire battlefield. Togekiss felt herself being pulled to the ground. Xatu noticed what was happening and attempted to escape the pull by flapping her wings hard as she could, but she was eventually forced down to the ground. Vibrating black waves were seen emanating throughout the battlefield floor.

"What is this?" Marianne demanded. "Wait, I recognize this move. It's Gravity! Your Togekiss's Metronome called upon Gravity. Then that means…"

The Telekinesis spell on Leavanny was rendered useless, freeing Leavanny and allowing her to get away from Starmie's attacks. She just so happened to be faster in the Trick Room compared to it and now, she was able to stay on top of Starmie's attempts to hose her down from a distance.

"Time for revenge, Leavanny!" Marinette grinned. "Energy Ball!"

Leavanny launched her Energy Ball at Starmie after ducking the last Scald. However, due to the exhaustion accumulation from enduring those Scald streams, Leavanny couldn't manage a full powered attack. The intense gravity managed a super effective hit that knocked back Starmie, stunning it long enough for Marinette to pursue the remainder of her plan.

"I didn't expect that twist of fate, but that doesn't guarantee your victory," Marianne reminded. "Xatu, Future Sight!"

"Leavanny, use String Shot on Xatu!"

Marinette's latest command had certainly stirred up conflicting opinions among the audience due to the prior knowledge of Xatu having Magic Bounce as her Ability. However, Alya and the rest of her friends were expecting a crazy tactic that only Marinette would be brave enough to pull off in spite of the overwhelming opposition. Their silence against the dissenting voices of the students was their confidence in her. Marc had also held his tongue, but not because he was starting to believe in Marinette, but because he was thinking about what words he would use to describe this story as to remember this memorable Gym battle.

"How will that help?" Marianne questioned.

"Just watch, Marianne," Marinette smiled. "Togekiss!"

As expected following a bright flash, the String Shot was found to be redirected back to sender right after Xatu sent her energy into the future. But before it could ensnare Leavanny, Togekiss leapt in the way and took it all on. Most of the threads landed on her wings, but some managed to get on her feet as to tangle her movement while bound on the ground by Gravity.

"Oh dear, you had your Togekiss take the hit instead?" Marianne asked, concerned that the stress of this Gym battle was greatly affecting her challenger's judgment. "I'm afraid I must reprimand you for this. Xatu, Psychic!"

"Air Slash!"

Much to everyone's shock, Togekiss made the first move, just before Xatu could even bind her with Psychic. The Jubilee Pokémon had acted in the blink of an eye, stretching out her wings and unleashing a flurry of wind blades that overtook Xatu before pushing her back. The Air Slashes pushed her close to Starmie, who then recovered from the Energy Ball it recently suffered.

"I see now… String Shot was indeed meant for Togekiss, but you fooled everyone and got me to drop my guard by going after Xatu instead. You made Magic Bounce work for you, and now with Togekiss slowed by the String Shot, Trick Room made her the fastest Pokémon on the field."

"You're missing one more thing, and that's to finish this battle once and for all! Togekiss, use Dazzling Gleam!"

"I won't go down without a fight! Xatu, Psychic! Starmie, Psyshock!"

To give it its all for the final clash, Starmie unleashed its Psyshock with everything it had, launching it to counter Togekiss's Dazzling Gleam. It would have a better chance fighting with Xatu's Psychic enhancing it like before. Except…

Xatu was cringing, reeling in from unbearable pain. Marianne quietly realized that Xatu was suffering from the secondary effect of Air Slash. Togekiss's Serene Grace kicked in when it needed to. Unable to provide backup for her teammate, Xatu could only watch Starmie attempt to hold back the brilliant rays flaring out of Togekiss's body on its own.

"X-Scissor!"

The sudden yelled order from Marinette drew immediate attention to Leavanny, who inconspicuously sneaked behind Starmie and Xatu during the commotion. She slashed Starmie at the back, disrupting its concentration and causing it to cease its Psyshock before leaping back and letting Togekiss take care of the rest.

The colorful rays of Dazzling Gleam consumed Starmie and Xatu before engulfing the entire field with its brightness. Everyone outside the battlefield shielded their eyes until the light died down as quickly as it shone.

The first thing they witnessed was the Trick Room starting to disappear tile by tile.

Next was the intense gravity returning to normal.

And last, but not least, were the Gym Leader's two Pokémon lying on their backs. One with a dazed swirly-eyed expression while the other's center core shone a dim ruby red.

"Starmie and Xatu are unable to battle!" Simon declared. "Leavanny and Togekiss win! This Gym battle is over with challenger Marinette Dupain-Cheng the victor of the Anistar City Gym!"

"And today, we've witnessed the rise of the fate defier!" Alya cheered alongside her friends.

"If that's what it takes to win at the Anistar Gym, then I've really got my work cut out for me," Alix commented. "Looks like I'll be hanging out in Anistar City for a while."

"Let's join Marinette," Juleka suggested, prompting the four of them to reunite with their victorious friend.

The Anistar Gym students were silent in awe at first before finally acknowledging Marinette's victory with a mild-mannered applause, impressed by the incredible battle they had the pleasure to witness this day. Having rejoined his fellow students, Marc applauded as well, pondering on how to appropriately write this battle out to remember for the future. Writing short stories and excerpts inspired from real life was a hobby of his, after all, though not many people, not even his peers from the Anistar Gym, were aware of this due to his lack of confidence in his own writing skills.

Back on the battlefield, Marinette ran to where her Pokémon were resting before embracing them both. It certainly helped that they immediately dove into her arms upon seeing her come their way.

"I'm so proud of you two!" Marinette gushed. "Leavanny, you were awesome as always! And Togekiss! It looks like we made a great call going for the evolution yesterday! Your new strength really led the way to us winning the Gym battle!"

"Tog-kiss!" Togekiss crooned.

"Despite having evolved the day before, you knew how to pull out Togekiss's potential in nothing shorter than a heartbeat," Marianne praised, smiling a warm smile as she walked over to them after recalling her beaten Pokémon to let them rest. "I apologize for giving you such a hard time with all that talk on fate, but as my duty as Gym Leader, I had to push you to ensure you're ready for the Kalos League."

"It's okay," Marinette shook her head good-naturedly. Her friends joined in, watching the interaction a few feet away. "I completely understand. I'm now one badge away from qualifying!"

"Is that so?" Marianne chuckled as Simon approached with the tray bearing the Anistar Gym's badge. She took the badge and handed it over to Marinette. "Well, my dear, you have proven your ability to create your own path to the future this day. You are hereby rewarded with the Psychic Badge. Congratulations, young Marinette!"

"This is so exciting… My seventh badge," Marinette tittered, admiring the lustrous sheen and unique design of her newest proof of success. She couldn't help but leap up and celebrate, Togekiss and Leavanny joining in her jubilation with their own triumphant poses. "Miraculous Ledian! I just won the Psychic Badge!"

"Congrats, girl!" Alya applauded. "Seriously, those were some sweet tactics you pulled out there. Kinda makes me glad you hold back when we train together. I don't think my self-esteem can handle you going all out against me."

"All the more to train even harder," Alix challenged. "I'm not letting you leave me in the dust, Marinette. I'm gonna be the next one to get that badge!"

"Ah, youth," Marianne sighed. "Marinette, a word alone, if you please?"

"You want to talk about something with me only?" Marinette asked.

"It won't take long," Marianne promised. "I only wish to impart some words of wisdom upon you, seeing as you'll be pursuing your eighth badge." She then faced Marinette's friends and Simon. "Would you all mind waiting outside for Marinette? And Simon, please escort the students out as you are all done for today. Fabulous job keeping up with your daily meditations, by the way!"

"Thank you, Madame Lenoir," Simon bowed before ushering everyone to get going.

Alya and the others briefly waved to Marinette, letting her know that they would be right outside the Anistar Gym's entrance once she was done with her meeting with the Gym Leader. Likewise, Simon led the psychic students and their Pokémon in an orderly fashion. Marc and Espeon quickly left the herd to join his newly made friends, wanting to talk with Nathaniel a bit longer. Simon noticed and didn't mind as long as Madame Lenoir was granted her private audience with her latest challenger.

"Well, it looks like it's just us now," Marinette started with a tilted awkward smile. "What did you want to talk another?"

"This actually concerns the impending fate of Kalos… Lady Ledian," Marianne announced. Fear immediately gripped Marinette's heart as the younger girl was currently trying to comprehend that the elderly woman standing in front of her knew her secret identity. Marianne held a hand up. "Peace upon your tender soul, young one. My powers have allowed me to see this far into the future and wait for the day you would arrive at my Gym."

"O-Oh… I see," Marinette calmed down. "That's right. You helped protect the Kalos region with your sights into the future. Um, does that mean…?"

"That I can see what will happen in yours and Liepard Noir's ultimate battle against Team Akuma?" Marianne surmised. She didn't want to do it after seeing Marinette's brightened expression, but she shook her head, causing Marinette to become crestfallen. "I'm afraid to say that even my powers of foresight have their limits. Everything you experienced while battling me was a result of my lifetime wisdom and experience. The visions I receive concerning Kalos as a whole are sporadic. The alignments of the stars open up different connections to the future, like a hallway with multiple doors."

"Aww, man!" Marinette moped. "I suppose that's fine. At least you get visions for the really important events. But with what Team Akuma is planning, how can you not see the outcome?"

"Let me offer you this thought instead," Marianne proposed. "Even if you did know what will happen, do you believe that you can control the outcome?"

"Y-Yes?" Marinette answered. "I mean, you said I defied fate by defeating you."

"Mm, that was only Gym Leader talk meant to motivate you to overcome me," Marianne explained. "But in a way, you did prove yourself capable of making your own future, regardless whether or not you were meant to defeat me this day. The truth is that I know I would eventually lose to you because of your determination to enter the Kalos League. You have infinite chances for a rematch against me should you have fallen instead."

"Oh… Then, what's the point of it all if everything in life is predetermined?" Marinette questioned.

"I don't have an answer to that question, no" Marianne replied. "Everyone has their own perception of life. I know what my role is because of who I am, the talents I have, and the many people I've met that helped me grow into the woman you see now. As for you, Marinette, you have the rest of your life to find your true purpose. I didn't intend to overcomplicate things by discussing the purpose of life with you. Rather, I am supposed to be a messenger right now."

"A messenger?" Marinette repeated.

"There is someone who is ready to meet you," Marianne continued, fondly placing a hand upon her bosom. "Someone dear to my wrinkled old heart, to be exact. He will help you fully understand your role as a Defender of Kalos, as well as explain the power within your Key Stone earring. I am sure he's already met with the boy who bears the mask of Liepard Noir."

"Liepard Noir… Did you meet him already?" Marinette asked eagerly.

"Oh, yes, battled him too," Marianne winked. "He is an excellent Pokémon Trainer from his generation. I actually gave him the suggestion to investigate a certain area in Route 18 before he goes to Snowbelle City for his final Gym badge. The same suggestion I'm going to give you, you know."

"Where will I find your friend, Marianne?" Marinette prompted.

The Anistar Gym Leader leaned in close, eyes twinkling mysteriously. She trusted that these two youths, whose immediate instincts upon confrontation against Team Akuma were to fight back for their loved ones, would be able to bring peace to the Kalos region and to the balance of nature. She hadn't foreseen the outcome, but she did believe that all would be well. And then they could finally be together in peace.

Her guise as a Gym Leader had been to provide him with current information of the world as he couldn't risk being out in the open, not when Team Akuma had its eyes and ears all over Kalos. That showed how adamant the Akuma Leader, Poison Moth, was in his intent in capturing Xerneas and Yveltal for his nefarious ends. Marianne could have done more were it not for her own age diluting her once incredible potential.

It was unfortunate that the fate of Kalos was now in the hands of two teenagers that have started their Pokémon journeys within a year. But apparently, he saw their unlimited potential and trusted his judgment on giving them those special Key Stones. And now that they've adjusted well into their roles as Defenders of Kalos, it was time to reward them with the explanation they deserved.

"Your questions will be answered… at Terminus Cave."


Later that day…

"I will be busy for the next few days due to a momentous deal I need to oversee, Adrien, so I trust you will continue to keep up your Pokémon's training," Gabriel's voice explained over the phone. "If you have any questions or concerns, please defer to Nathalie in the meantime."

"I have one question: how's this any different than any other day?" Adrien complained dryly.

"Listen, my full attention is required for this matter," Gabriel sighed. "Let's just say that I have a quarry now fully identified and am ready to corner it. I cannot let this chance escape. You'll understand someday, son. This is all for you."

Right, as if I would need any more money than I do now, Adrien thought. "Well, it was nice that you took the time to give me a head's up, Father."

"Oh, I have more good news, assuming that this 'capture' goes through successfully," Gabriel continued. "I actually wanted to surprise you on your way to Couriway Town, but I can't wait any longer. I will be a live special guest in the upcoming Rookie Class Showcase and I want you to sit with me. Don't worry, it's not Nathalie carrying my face around on a tablet this time."

"R-Really, Father?" Adrien questioned anxiously.

"Really," Gabriel confirmed.

"Wow… What's with the free time all of a sudden?" Adrien asked.

"It's not free time, Adrien," Gabriel clarified. "It is simply another opportunity for me to promote my brand among the aspiring Pokémon Performers, for them to wear my designs come the Master Class Showcase. You heading to Couriway Town happens to be a blessing."

"A coincidence," Adrien surmised, unsure what to feel. He was half disappointed that his father didn't make time for him specifically. And then, there were big events while Adrien was attending Lumiose Academy that his father made public appearances via tablet held by Nathalie. There were also moments that he promised to be there in person, only to break them at the last minute due to his work as a top fashion designer. He didn't want to get his hopes up just to wind up sitting next to Nathalie again, but right now, he held onto the hope that he would be able spend time with his father without the burdens of being the Champion's son involved. "… I see."

"By the way, there's also something interesting I think you should know," Gabriel added. "I have an associate from the Sinnoh region, Tomoe Tsurugi of the Tsurugi clan, who told me that she has a daughter currently competing for the Kalos League."

"Kagami?" Adrien responded reflexively.

"Ah, so you've already met," Gabriel said. "This saves me the explanation of encouraging you to become her rival and show her the true might of Kalos. How long ago did you meet her?"

"Not too long ago, actually," Adrien replied. "In two days, I'll be battling her in Couriway Town. We didn't battle when we first met because I was involved with another Trainer and Kagami said she'll only face me at my full strength."

"An honorable young girl, indeed," Gabriel remarked. "Very well. This is all I needed to discuss with you, Adrien. Take care of yourself."

"Take care, Father," Adrien responded, even though he had hung up after his last word. He leaned against a tree to catch his balance. So many things have happened on Route 18. Meeting Kagami and Wayhem. Master Fu's story from yesterday at the entrance of Terminus Cave. And now his father's announcements, which were more than him being too busy for him as usual. This became too much for him to process. Even Plagg appeared genuinely concerned, gently touching his hand with his nose. "… My head's spinning. I need to lie down."


I finally got back into the groove and wrote at an even pace during times work didn't exhaust me to sleep. This chapter went through a lot of changes due to gaining a new direction for the Gym battle. Originally, Simon Grimault was the closest I could get for a Psychic Trainer due to him using cards and being a hypnotist. He had Slowking, Hypno, and Espeon, the last which went to Marc, who I assigned to be the one to represent Inverse Battles due to certain obvious reasons (Hint: Reverser). That, and to correspond to Nathaniel's Umbreon… Make that as you will.

But when Season Three revealed Marianne Lenoir and her association with Master Fu and possibly the Miraculous, I figured I could get away with putting out my version of her being a psychic like Olympia. At this point of writing, it wasn't set whether or not she was a former Miraculous user, but she did have sufficient knowledge of them and that was enough for me to be creative with her. And her association with time as Backwarder provided enough supporting evidence for her to be the Anistar Gym Leader as one who wanted to go back in time to change fate (Yes, same premise as Timebreaker despite different methods).

And what did Fu tell Adrien? The same thing he'll tell Marinette next chapter, of course.

One last thing. Have you Pokémon fans eager to see what will happen for Gen VIII's Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield? The Galar region... open to so many new possibilities due to being based off of England.

Please review!