As the Silver League continues, Summer easily defeated her next opponent to advance to the Top 16. She watched Weldon's Top 16 battle, but was overcome by the unusually high amount of hatred towards her rival. This led to Weldon being ousted out of the tournament. Summer tried to see him but was stopped by Caleb, who was actually behind the smear campaign against Weldon. She was able to stop the agent and his Liepard, and the man was arrested by the police. Now unsure of everything going on with Weldon, Red, the Kanto Champion invited her to his office to talk. What does Red know about the incidents, and will Summer be able to win her next battle?

Chapter 57- Revealing the Ruse

We had our celebratory Top 16 dinner at Slashing Sushi, but as everyone else feasted on delicious sushi rolls, I barely touched my chicken udon soup.

Samir tapped my shoulder. "You okay, Summer?"

I sighed. "I know I should be happy, but seeing how Weldon was manipulated to lose…"

"I...I still can't believe it either…" Samir muttered.

"HOW COULD WELDON LOSE?" Candy roared, briefly quieting the entire restaurant. "That doesn't just happen to someone like him against someone like Perry! I'm going to march right over to the PLA office and give them a piece of my mind!"

After giving the owner an apologetic smile, I replied, "But it wasn't the PLA's fault, it was his former agent, Caleb."

Yuki twirled her hair. "True. There must be a reason why Caleb did all this. It seems...too calculated for him to do alone."

Jasmine looked at Morty. "You know, Morty. You've been pretty occupied with something lately. Is this it?"

The Ghost type Gym Leader ate a piece of a vegetarian roll, trying to avoid her worried gaze. Jasmine was hurt, but didn't say anything.

This is...getting awkward… At least we didn't get kicked out.

Lows looked at his Pokégear. "Hey, we should get back to the hotel. It's almost 8 o'clock."

"Oh," I said. "I actually have to be somewhere else."

"As do I," Morty added, wiping his face with a cloth napkin. "Please, go on without us."

I guess he got the invite from Red too.

My friends nodded and slowly left. Jasmine sadly glanced at Morty one more time before exiting. I looked at the Gym Leader, who looked distant as he put on his black and purple coat. As we left the restaurant and walked through the town, a wave of regret and pain washed over me.

Morty smirked. "I know you're feeling my emotions, Summer."

"Sorry, Morty. I still have some trouble controlling those sensations."

"It's part of your role as a Guardian, you don't have to apologize."

"So then, you have feelings for Jasmine?"

He chuckled, staring at the crescent moon. "Good intuition. She's a wonderful and kind person, but can also be strong-willed and confident when needed. She's...really one of the greatest people I've ever met."

"Then, why not tell her?"

He adjusted his scarf. "I...don't know how she'll react. We've always been good colleagues and training partners. I don't want to ruin that dynamic."

"But I think she feels the same way about you. I know when you're together, she's much happier than usual. And when she asked if you were all right, she really was worried about you."

"Well, you might be right about that. I'll apologize to her and tell her how I feel after our meeting."

I nodded and we finally made it to the PLA headquarters. After checking in with the one of the blue and red-clad security officers, the other one guided us to the top floor where Red's office was and opened the door. Red's office looked like it hadn't changed much since I last saw it. But when we sat on the cushioned chairs in front of his table, I noticed a new photograph. It showed Red and the brown-haired boy from the photograph two years ago, but they looked much older.

Huh...this one looks much more recent. I wonder if they made up…

But I refocused my attention onto the Champion, whom to my surprise, was standing, staring at an old book in his hands. Its red cover was slightly faded, but the gold gilded title was still legible: The Origins of the Ten Oldest Battling Families.

"Um, Red?" I said.

He slightly jumped. "Oh! Sorry, I was just pondering something."

"Is everything all right?" Morty inquired as Red sat in his chair. "Maybe we should come back at a different time?"

Red put the book on his desk. "Any other time would be meaningless."

This sounds really serious.

Red regained his stoic composure and looked at us intently. "Thank you for coming here on such short notice." He turned to me and sighed. "Summer, I had a feeling you would come to discover our investigation involving Weldon. And...I want to apologize for not informing you about what Morty, Lance, and I were doing."

I raised an eyebrow. "Wait, Lance is involved too?"

Nodding, the Champion continued, "Lance was his Elite Four examiner in the Indigo League and saw him during the Neo Team Rocket incident. We were both concerned for his mental wellbeing, after losing to me and getting involved with Caleb Caedmon. I never trusted that agent, but when I first heard the salacious rumors, I knew I had to get involved."

I leaned back and crossed my arms. "But why, Red? And why did Morty get involved?"

The Gym Leader replied, "Champion Red inquired my services due to my experience with the Leland family and their past exploits. During my early years as a disciple to the monks at the Bell Tower, I met the patriarch at the time, Michael Leland, through Lady Lan, one of his closest friends. From him, I learned not only details of their battling ability, but also the family drama."

"Family drama?"

Red adjusted his cap and showed me the book. "Champions around the world have access to a library where many ancient and rare texts are stored away from the public. I learned much about the Leland history firsthand from this, which is updated every five years. I studied their origins in the Hoenn Region, the key battles that gained and securing their standing as one of the top battling families in the world, and the struggles that plagued their lineage."

"Struggles? Like the family drama you mentioned?"

"Well, this struggle is the most current, and the only one still ongoing. It's about their issues with another well-known and long-lived battling family from the Unova Region, the Alarics. To make a long story short, the Alarics' battling ability is to channel immense physical strength within their Pokémon, either during battle or on the field. That was how their ancestor quickly rose through the ranks."

Enhanced power? That sounds...really familiar to me… But where? Then, it hit me. "Red...are you telling me that Stanley Leland's father is from the Alaric family?"

The Champion gave me a soft smile. "Yes. I'm impressed you figured it out so quickly."

"It does make sense, with the way Stanley's Charizard injured me and Blaze. He pinpointed our weak points, like the Leland ability, and made sure to hurt us to the maximum amount possible, using the Alaric ability."

Red rested his elbows on the table. "A Trainer with two battling family abilities. Very rare, but still very powerful. And, unfortunately, they can be tools to people who have a strong influence on them."

"Like that man in your visions," Morty surmised. "He is associated with Stanley Leland, correct?"

"Yeah...I think so… At least, that's what it seemed like."

Red's face darkened, and he clenched his right fist. He was trying to suppress his rage. "I still can't believe this happened," he hissed. "That cowardly Arbok outwitted me!"

Morty and I were shocked by his sudden outburst. "Champion Red, what were you even hoping to accomplish with your mission?" the Gym Leader asked.

The young man groaned and breathed deeply. "I apologize for acting like this. It's just...I wanted to pick up where my predecessor left off."

"Your predecessor?" I asked.

"Yes, the previous Kanto Champion, Giovanni."

How many titles did this guy have?! Team Rocket Leader, Gym Leader, and now Champion?!

Red chuckled. "I see you're just as shocked as I was, Summer. Although he threatened the region several times, I know that he's been doing this to help his best friend and his family."

I stroked my chin. "So then, why are you helping Giovanni, Red?"

He took off his cap and brushed his black hair back. "I...think this story is saved for a better time."

I groaned. Not again…

"I know, Summer, but you should be getting your rest. After all, your Top 16 match is coming up."

"You're right. Thanks for telling me this, Red."

As we got up, he replied, "No, thank you. One of my regrets in this was not getting you involved sooner. It seems Weldon needed you more than I anticipated. Anyway, good luck with the rest of the tournament."

I bowed, and Morty and I left his office. It was a lot to take in, but our discussion left me with more questions than answers. Who was Giovanni helping, and why did Red feel obligated to continue his goal? Little did I know I would get those answers sooner than I thought.

The next day…

My friends and I finished eating lunch at the Pokémon Center cafeteria when the 1 o'clock Johto News flashed on the television in the lobby.

{And now, for the latest Silver League news,} the female reporter said. {There are still mixed reactions in regards to Weldon Leland's upset loss yesterday against Perry Parson. Although some people are shocked and saddened at his ousting, others believe he received comeuppance based on recent salacious documents. Weldon Leland's Top 32 ranking is the lowest ranking a member of the Leland family has received since 1950. There has been no news on Weldon Leland's future plans, but we will provide updates when this is available. The Junior Division has...}

The gossiping girls from yesterday whispered loudly, "Serves that Weldon right!"

"Yeah! I always thought Stanley Leland was the better sibling anyway. And Perry's now becoming much more popular...and handsome..."

"I totally agree! Come on, let's see who's the unlucky Trainer facing Perry next!"

I rolled my eyes. "Why do I need to keep seeing them all the time?"

Candy cracked her knuckles. "Want me to battle them?"

"Uh...I don't think that's necessary. But...thanks, Candy."

She groaned. "You're no fun, Summer."

"But those girls are correcta, in terms of the Top 16 matchups," Carlos said. "Let us see who you three are facing next."

"Sounds good to me," Lows replied.

We walked over to the three matchup boards, which now have less but larger text.

"Oh look!" one of the girls cried. "Perry's facing against Summer Scorcher!"

"The one Weldon's been pining over? Man, I feel sorry for her; Perry will dominate her like he did with that phony Trainer."

They walked away laughing as I tried to remain calm. Yuki put a hand on my shoulder, and I took some deep breaths.

"This is getting ridiculous," Jasmine retorted. "How much more does that poor kid have to suffer?"

Morty replied, "Weldon's a strong Trainer. I know he'll get through this." Although he was talking to his fellow Gym Leader, I knew he was also speaking to me.

"Well, at least I know who I'm battling next. What about you two?"

Lows and Sip glanced at the Senior Division list.

"Well, I'm facing against Benny Barker," Lows said. "I've heard he specializes in the sound-based moves."

"That sounds challenging, but I know you can beat him," I analyzed. "How about you, Sip?"

"Looks like, Louisa Lanslow."

"Isn't that the Trainer who specializes in slow moves?" Candy asked. "I'm surprised she made it this far."

"I heard she's tough, so I'm looking forward to this challenge."

I took a look at the board myself. "And it looks like all of our matches are tomorrow at the Gold Battlefield."

"Great!" Lisa cheered. "I really wanted to see your battles, Summer. Too bad I got distracted by some other ones."

"HEY!" her group complained.

"I'm just kidding! Of course I wanted to see you and Sip's battles too, Lows."

Lows smirked. "I know. Hey, want to study now?"

I looked at my Pokégear. "Sorry, I have to meet up with my cousin. How about after dinner?"

"Sounds good. We'll just get a headstart. Anyone want to join us?"

Candy raised her hand, and Carlos did as well, although reluctantly.

Morty smiled. "I don't mind a Trainer study session. I know a few tricks against those kinds of Trainers."

Lows turned to his traveling partner, but she replied, "Not really, I'm going to go shopping."

"I'll join you, Lisa," Yuki offered.

"Me too," Jasmine added.

The young Coordinator was starstruck. "Two skilled Coordinators going shopping with me?! It's a dream come true!"

Everyone laughed, and my friends exited the building. I let out Lightning and Teddiursa, and we headed to the designated Swiftney's. Once there, I got three hot chocolates and settled into a table nestled to the left side of the counter.

After taking a sip, Lightning asked, "So, what do you think is going on with Sorin?"

"I don't really know. I thought we resolved everything. But I guess now he's more nervous than arrogant."

"Ooohhh...maybe he's scared of you, Summer!" Teddiursa replied. He tried to gulp down the rich liquid, but his friend made sure he taking sips.

I stroked my chin. "What do you mean by 'scared'?"

"FAMILY DRAMA!"

"Okay… Why don't you and Lightning wait in the Pokémon relaxation area?"

Lightning slyly replied, "You know it's right behind us, right?"

I looked up and saw the secluded room with brightly colored cushions, a television set, and little blocks and balls in red, yellow, and blue.

"Oh, yeah. But still, you should go what over there."

"Fine..."

My Pokémon walked over to the special area as I drank some more hot chocolate.

After a few minutes, Sorin walked over to my table, a caramel latté in his hand. "Hey, Summer. Sorry I'm late."

"No problem, Sorin. I just came a few minutes ago."

There was an awkward silence as he sipped his hot drink.

"So…" I said, trying to break the tension. "Who's your Top 16 opponent?"

"Oh, Hannah Henderson. She's a pretty strong Trainer who specializes in Pokémon with palindrome names. How about you?"

"Perry Parson."

"That guy who beat Weldon Leland? He's becoming a regional celebrity overnight."

"Yeah, I heard. But hopefully it won't be too bad. After all, this is the last three-on-three round before the full team battles."

Sorin gripped his plastic cup tightly. I felt his anxiety rise slightly. He smiled and said, "You're sensing this, aren't you, Summer?"

I gave him a sheepish grin. "Sorry, Sorin."

"Don't be. I haven't really been myself since I arrived here. I'm guessing that's the real reason why we're meeting today?"

I nodded. "But if you're not ready to talk about it, I understand."

He breathed deeply. "No. I need to tell you. It's becoming more real as this tournament progresses. I just… Well...I thought that if we did face other, I'd lose on purpose. That way, I can fully atone for everything I did to you before you became the Legend Guardian."

This time, I gripped my cup. "Sorin...just your support is the only apology I needed. I don't want you to throw the match because of our past. But if it does come to pass, then I want to battle you at your full potential, just like I know you really want too."

"Summer…" He softly chuckled. "You're right. After all, that was my goal when I started this journey."

I laughed. "I know, and we'll both show each other how strong we've gotten since then."

My cousin nodded and got up. "I'd better get going. Thanks for understanding, Summer."

"Of course. Good luck, Sorin."

"You too."

After he left, I waved my anxious Pokémon over.

"So...how'd it go?" Lightning asked.

"It went well. He wanted to throw the match if we meet in the future rounds to make up for what happened. But I was able to convince him not to."

"See?" Teddiursa pointed out, waving his arms. "FAMILY DRAMA!"

"Well, it's not really drama if it's been solved so quickly."

Lightning was excited. "I can't wait to finally have a real battle against Sorin! I wonder what other Pokémon he'll have."

I smirked. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Now come on, let's meet up with everyone for dinner."

"And then, study time!"

We finished our dinners, met up with everyone at Pika Pizza, and finished the day with a study session with Lows and Sip.

The next day…

My friends and I watched the end of Lows' battle from the Gold Battlefield stands. His Machamp, Power, stood triumphantly over Benny's final Pokémon, Magneton.

As the referee waved his flags, the announcer shouted, {And there you have it! Lows Landerson has defeated Benny Barker to advance to the Top 8!}

We cheered as Lows happily waved to the crowd.

"He made it to the Top 8!" Lisa screamed as the Trainers on the field returned to the backstage area.

Everyone chuckled except for Candy. She crossed her arms and grumbled, "That must be nice."

Carlos shook his head and gave his companion a sly grin. "Oh Señorita Candy, I was also in that position tambien."

"But I could've won my match!"

He quieted her with a side hug. "You can always try again for the next league, Señorita Candy."

She blushed, not knowing what to say. When she saw me smirking, she immediately pushed Carlos' arm away and retorted, "What're you making that face for?!"

Chuckling, I replied, "Oh, nothing. Anyway, I should go get ready for my match."

"Good luck, Summer," Jasmine and Yuki said. Morty nodded in agreement.

I got up, leaving Lightning and Teddiursa with Yuki, and walked to the backstage area. After checking in and putting my backpack in the locker room, I read Perry's biography one last time.

"Perry Parson hails from Violet City, where he enjoyed exploring the Ruins of Alph. After a fateful encounter with his first Pokémon, Growlithe, he decided to become a Trainer to explore the world. However, he gets frequently distracted by trying to see everything, and this also applies to his battling style. He is also prone to get attached to ideas and beliefs that have profound impacts on him. But with his most recent win against high-ranking Weldon Leland, it seems that his luck is changing."

Huh, I guess it got updated recently. But I still don't really know his battling style just from watching the Top 16 match. I should just play it safe.

When I walked out of the locker room, Perry was heading towards the boy's locker room. I waved hello, but he ignored me. He was busy combing his hair and fussing with his clothes.

Wow, I never expected him to be so obsessed about his appearance, or rude. Must be from two days ago. I shrugged, then made my way to the southern corridor of the Gold Battlefield. When I got the signal to enter, I was greeted with resounding cheering. Then, it was Perry's turn.

A louder roar echoed throughout the battlefield as a confident and well kempt Perry strode to the northern side. We made eye contact, and he gave me an arrogant smirk.

Wow, he's becoming more of a jerk...

The referee, who I had in my Top 64 match, shouted, "The Senior Division match between Summer Scorcher from Littleroot Town and Perry Parson from Violet City will soon begin. The field type and move choice will now be chosen."

The wheel on the television screen spun around; this time, a gray slice stayed illuminated.

"Perry Parson will go first! In return, the battlefield type will appear, as already chosen by Summer Scorcher!"

I smiled as a grassy battlefield emerged from the ground. The most neutral field type. I hope this works out for me.

"Perry and Summer, please select your first Pokémon!"

Perry unhooked a Great Ball and swung it around in a flamboyant wave. "Come forth, Ampharos!"

The Electric type landed on the verdant terrain. But he looked annoyed as his Trainer waved to his adoring fans.

Okay, now he really is a jerk. "Go, Flower!"

The Ivysaur eagerly stood on the grass, and she looked at me confidently.

The referee waved his flags and shouted, "Battle begin!"

With a wave of his hand, Perry commanded, "Ampharos, Cotton Guard."

The Light Pokémon fluffed up the fur around his body and formed a wooly barrier that drew awws from the female spectators.

Um...okay... "Flower, use Sludge Bomb!"

She shot the purple orb at her opponent, soaking him in the poisonous ooze. Ampharos winced in pain and tried to brush the sludge off, but it was trapped in the wool.

Perry's mouth twitched slightly. "Come on, Ampharos. Don't make me look bad." His Pokémon glared back, but Perry brushed off the stare. "Use Fire Punch!"

Ampharos was alarmed, and Flower and I echoed that sentiment.

"Umm...Perry? Maybe you'd want to rethink that."

He scoffed, "I don't need someone like you telling me how to battle when I defeated a battling family member. Do it, Ampharos!"

The Electric type gulped, then set his right paw on fire. But the orange energy ignited the sludge on his body, causing Ampharos to cry in pain as flames surrounded him. Perry was stunned, but couldn't speak.

This is getting out of control! I can't let Ampharos suffer anymore! "Flower, quick! Razor Leaf!"

She nodded and unleashed a flurry of leaves. They sliced through the wool, relieving Ampharos of the heat and fire. But it was too late; he fell onto the grass, unable to move.

The referee was in shock, but he recovered and waved the gray flag. "Ampharos is unable to battle! Flower wins! Perry, please choose your next Pokémon!"

There was quiet amongst the audience until a few groups of people clapped.

I frowned. That battle shouldn't have been that easy.

Perry reluctantly returned his Pokémon and said, "Beginner's luck, Summer. Let's see how you can handle my next Pokémon. Go, Persian!"

The Normal type leapt onto the battlefield, sizing his adversary.

I should save Flower, just in case. "Flower, return!"

She smiled and reentered her ball. Once I saw her icon became monochrome, I threw my next Pokéball. "Go, Blaze!"

My starter landed emphatically, ready for his first Silver League matchup. Perry gritted his teeth, but quickly recomposed himself.

"Battle begin!"

"Persian, Fake Out!"

The Classy Cat Pokémon pounced on the Fire type then somersaulted backwards. Blaze fell onto the grass as Persian returned to the ground and licked his paws. Blaze got up, but was so startled, he didn't want to attack.

"You okay, Blaze?"

He nodded. "Just a scratch."

Taking advantage of the free turn, Perry shouted, "Water Pulse!"

Persian charged a swirling water orb from the jewel on his head, then launched it at the Blaze Pokémon.

I countered, "Flamethrower!"

My Pokémon inhaled then shot the stream of flames, evaporating the super effective attack and hitting his target. Persian slid back, but was ready to continue.

Perry was undeterred. "Aerial Ace!"

The Normal type lunged forward, his left claws extended.

Knowing we couldn't stop the move, Blaze and I braced ourselves and formed a fist in our right hand. We simultaneously took a deep breath, and when Persian got closer, I shouted, "Sky Uppercut!"

We swung our fists upwards, and Blaze made contact with Persian's chin. The latter tumbled into the air and crashed onto the grass. The Classy Cat Pokémon struggled to stand, but the super effective attack took its toll. Persian collapsed onto the grass.

The referee waved the gray flag once more. "Persian is unable to battle! Blaze wins! Perry, please select your final Pokémon!"

The crowd cheered, but I could make out some people whispering amongst themselves. Were they realizing the truth about Perry's skills?

"Do you want to keep going, Blaze?" I asked.

He smirked. "I've been waiting to shake the battle rust off."

My opponent returned his second fallen Pokémon. He glared at me, but it was out of the competition, not his haughty attitude. "I won't go down without a fight, Summer! Go, Arcanine!"

The Fire type faced us, mimicking his Trainer's expression.

"Battle begin!"

"Arcanine, Dig!"

The canine Pokémon tore through the grass with his large paws, eventually disappearing from view. Blaze and I looked at the ground not knowing where he'd reappear.

But I remained calm and commanded, "Blaze, jump up and use Flamethrower on the grass!"

He nodded and leapt towards the barrier. Then, he sprayed the flames onto the battlefield, causing the blades of grass to ignite. I scanned the ground and noticed a patch where the flames seemed to be lower than everyone else.

Looks like Arcanine's Flash Fire ability's doing more harm. "There, Blaze! Blaze Kick!"

He smirked and dove to the ground with his right kick aflame. Once he slammed onto the field, a small seismic wave forced Arcanine back to the surface and showered him with sharp rocks. Perry clenched his fist, but he was stoic.

"Arcanine, Fire Blast!"

Flames burst in Arcanine's mouth, then he roared, created a fiery dai-shaped projectile.

"Dodge, Blaze!"

But as he jumped over the attack, Perry smirked. "Body Slam!"

His Pokémon leapt higher than Blaze and flattened his. Arcanine smothered Blaze onto the charred grass and proudly walked back to his side of the field. Blaze winced in pain but was able to stand.

I asked, "You okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. That Arcanine's pretty tough."

"Then we have to be tougher, right?"

He nodded and readied himself for the next move.

Perry smiled. "Dragon Pulse!"

"Flamethrower!"

Arcanine aimed a large green-blue orb of light as Blaze shot the stream of flames. The two attacks collided and exploded into a shower of turquoise embers. Both Pokémon were struck and began to pant.

We both knew this turn would determine the course of the match.

"Fire Blast!"

"Fire Punch!"

Blaze ran towards the flaming dai and punched the center with his fiery fist. My starter struggled to push it back, and the flames from the Fire Blast began to encircle his arm.

"Don't give up, Blaze!" I shouted.

His Fire Punch grew in power from the energy of the Fire Blast, Blaze broke through and smashed Arcanine in the face. The Flash Fire negated the flames, but the sheer force of the punch threw the Legendary Pokémon into the wall to the right of Perry. Arcanine fell onto the ground, unable to move.

The referee crossed his arms and shouted, "Arcanine is unable to battle! Blaze wins, and the winner of this Top 16 match is Summer Scorcher from Littleroot Town!"

The crowd cheered as I ran to the injured Blaziken. "Blaze! You did it!"

He turned to me and smiled. "We did it, Summer."

We side hugged and saw Perry coming over. He was finally no longer the jerk he was earlier, but the awkward boy when we first met.

He nervously scratched the back of his neck. "Hey, Summer. Great match today. Sorry for, well..."

I smiled. "Don't worry, Perry. I know you got caught up with the sudden fame of beating Weldon."

"Yeah, but that doesn't excuse my actions against you, or my Pokémon. Seems like I still have a ways to go to become a Trainer who doesn't rely on others so heavily."

"You'll get there, Perry. Good luck with your next journey."

"Heh. Good luck with your next match."

We shook hands and exited with the cheers echoing throughout the stadium.

A few hours later...

We had dinner at Teppan-mochi, enjoying the different berry-flavored mochi after a meal the hibachi-grilled meats, vegetables, and berries.

"To, Summer, Lows, and Sip!" Jasmine cheered, raising her glass of Pinap Berry juice. "Congratulations on making the Top 8!"

"Cheers!" We clinked glasses and sipped the sweet, tangy drink.

"Wow," Samir said. "This tournament's going by so fast!"

Yuki giggled. "But we're all still having fun."

"Easy for you to say, Yuki," I teased.

"Now, now," Jasmine reassured. "Let's just enjoy the rest of the night." She leaned against Morty, who slightly blushed.

I smirked at the Ghost type Gym Leader, and he smiled back.

Lows checked his Pokégear. "Hey, they posted the division matchups for the Top 8 at the Pokémon Center. Let's head over there before going to the hotel."

"Sounds good to me," Sip replied.

We left the restaurant and made our way the two-story building. Once inside, the remaining Trainers were scanning the three brackets.

When Sip, Lows, and I approached, Taylor Rose looked at us.

The girl sneered, pointing her right index finger at Lows. "Looks like we're battling tomorrow, Landerson. Get ready to be destroyed!" She laughed and exited the Pokémon Center.

Lows blinked. "Well, I guess I know who I'm up against."

Lisa was worried. "Will you be able to beat her, Lows?"

He gave his friend a comforting smile. "I'll try, Lisa."

Then, Sorin noticed me and bit his lip. I immediately understood what that meant. Looks like his prediction was correct.

Summer's Pokémon:

Blaze (Blaziken, male): Brave Nature, moves: Fire Punch, Flamethrower, Blaze Kick, Sky Uppercut

Errol (Noctowl, male): Rash Nature, moves: Psychic, Confusion, Hypnosis, Air Slash

Aurora (Dewgong, female): Calm Nature, moves: Water Pulse, Ice Beam, Aqua Tail, Aqua Ring

Lightning (Raichu, female): Adamant Nature, moves: Thunderbolt, Quick Attack, Iron Tail, Thunder Punch

Flower (Ivysaur, female): Gentle Nature, moves: Sludge Bomb, Leech Seed, Razor Leaf, Sleep Powder

Rocky (Steelix, male): Lonely Nature, moves: Stone Edge, Crunch, Dragonbreath, Iron Tail

Temporary- Teddiursa (male): Naughty Nature, moves: Fury Swipes, Roar, Leer, Scratch

Yuki's Pokémon:

Momo (Wartortle, male): Quiet Nature, moves: Water Gun, Rapid Spin, Blizzard, Aqua Tail

Ume (Swellow, female): Adamant Nature, moves: Roost, Wing Attack, Quick Attack, Swift

Ichigo (Minun, male): Sassy Nature, moves: Discharge, Hidden Power, Helping Hand, Spark

Kiui (Skiploom, female): Jolly Nature, moves: Bullet Seed, Mega Drain, Silver Wind, Sleep Powder

Mikan (Cyndaquil, male): Bold Nature, moves: Facade, Flame Wheel, Flamethrower, Smokescreen

Questions for the Chapter:

Do you agree with Red helping Giovanni and Weldon?

Do you agree with Sorin's initial mindset about facing Summer?

What did you think of Summer's battle?

How will Summer do against Sorin?