Here's another chapter! A bit longer than my previous uploads! So, without any further ado, let's begin!
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon.
Xxx
Rematch!
"Last time Erika trashed us." Cynthia told her Pokémon. "I wasn't prepared for such a battle." She admitted. "Given Erika's reputation, I really underestimated her."
Nidorino and Braixen agreed whole-heartedly. They really had not expected such a unique battler like Tangela to brutally destroy them. The others, being Buizel, Roselia, and Squirtle, took that in slowly.
"But since we know that now," A grin spread across Cynthia's face. "We can prepare much better." They cheered. "So guys, I got us some Multi-Use TMs. They'll help a lot in coverage."
Cynthia quickly explained to them what a Technical Machine did exactly and how it worked. "I'm going to return you guys now. I'll call you out after using the TMs." They nodded and were quickly returned to their pokéballs.
Cynthia brought out her TM case and quickly adjusted the pokéballs inside, setting it up. She activated the device and smiled as it worked its magic.
"Here we go." The blonde released her Pokémon after the process was complete. Her Pokémon came out, looking over themselves curiously. "Let's test them first." They nodded. The blonde had set up some targets for practicing.
"Ice Beam." Nidorino and Squirtle, who had been given the Ice Beam TM, took a moment before firing off an arcing cyan beam. The beam hit the targets, chilling them down and even causing a bit of ice to form.
Cynthia nodded. She had expected that much at the first use. They'll get stronger after practice. "Good job guys." She then made her next practice. "Thunderbolt."
Only Nidorino acted this time, the Electric Type attack shooting off his horn. It hit the target, though the aim was a bit off just like Ice Beam. Nothing that couldn't be remedied with practice though.
"Epic job Nidorino." She complimented. The blonde quickly went through the remaining moves. Solar Beam for Braixen and Roselia and Protect for almost everyone sans the Pokémon already knowing it.
"Nice." Cynthia smiled. She could already see Erika's demise. "We're going to practice these for the entire day. After that, we'll defeat Erika!" They cheered.
Defeating Erika was a good motivation for them, Cynthia smirked. The blonde briefly wondered just when she started to care about losing or winning or holding a grudge.
Cynthia pushed the thoughts aside for another time and focused on the training. No need to get distracted.
The training went smooth. Cynthia had pitted the Ice Beam users against the Pokémon practicing Protect so both sides could benefit. Braixen had to practice Solar Beam so it would take less charging time.
Roselia was able to utilize Solar Beam better than Braixen due to her typing. The blonde wasn't surprised by that. The major drawback of Solar Beam was its charging time though. She'll have to teach them Sunny Day later on.
Though the charging time could be lessened through practice and multiple uses, a Sunny Beam combo could wreak havoc and give Roselia access to much needed firepower.
Night came as their entire day went by training. During the small breaks they took in between, Cynthia interacted with her egg. The blonde was sure it would hatch soon since the egg acted up a bit when she talked to it.
She couldn't wait! The egg would be her first Pokémon that she'll raise from the very beginning! Nurse Joy had checked the egg and did confirm that it'll hatch soon. She was also kind enough to give her tips.
Right now though, Cynthia was in her room, scrolling through her pokedex. It wasn't that eventful of a day and she wasn't feeling like sleeping too.
'I need to visit Suzie too.' Cynthia mentally reminded herself. 'I'll challenge Erika first thing tomorrow and then visit Scissor Street. Hopefully she wouldn't charge me too. I'm pretty low on funds.'
The blonde revised a few of her strategies. Nidorino and Braixen were going to participate in the Gym Battle but she wasn't sure about the last Pokémon.
That was poor planning on her part, but Cynthia wasn't sure on what to expect from Erika. She had expected her to be a passive fighter, relying more on status ailments and traps than attack.
Her Tangela was a really unorthodox fighter. Cynthia was unable to wrap her mind around his battle style. He could fight excellently in close range, was immune of status ailments due to Leaf Guard, and his Solar Beam wrecked the foe.
The blonde scrolled for Tangela and found his sight. Clicking it, she decided to read a bit about the Vine Pokémon. The blonde wouldn't mind adding one to her rooster.
"That's impressive." Cynthia mumbled as she read more about its capabilities. Though she figured out some faults too. The blonde thought of a nice counter to Tangela.
She couldn't help the smirk on her face as a very simple method made itself known. If Nidorino could learn it, then Tangela would be hard pressed to fight. The blonde got up from her leaning position and began to dig more information on it.
Work Up, a move that roused up the user and made its attacking strength more stronger. Nidorino's physical strength was already formidable, but foes like Tangela made it difficult to properly utilize it.
With Work Up, Nidorino could easily overpower Tangela in close combat and make short work of the Vine Pokémon. Tangela had strong defenses but she had no doubt Nidorino's Work Up boosted Poison Jab wouldn't penetrate.
Cynthia made a note in her pokégear about the move and searched up Kanto's map. Her pokégear showed the map and she began to plan her next move.
"I should head to Lt. Surge next." Cynthia mumbled. However, Lt. Surge was known for his brutal fighting tactics and the blonde wasn't sure her team could handle him.
Sure, they could train over the way but Cynthia was beginning to feel less confident in herself. After losing against Erika, her confidence had rather taken a drastic fall, though she did her best to hide it.
She had majorly won the battles through Route 7 yet Erika trashed her. The blonde needed some time to herself, to rebuild her confidence. To gather herself.
"I could go to Fuchsia." Cynthia mumbled, finger twirling a lock of golden hair. "But I'm low on supplies and also don't have that much money." It was now the blonde was regretting her expensive shopping. The TM would help but she should have held some restrain.
If she managed to defeat Erika, it would give her some money and she might be able to manage her long trek to Fuchsia. If only Ash was here with her.
The blonde sighed as her childhood friend's face appeared. She really missed him. Ash always knew how to cheer her up and make her feel confident.
Just like how she felt overwhelmed at Cerulean's Gym and he snapped her out of it. The blonde wondered whether her battle with Erika would've turned out different if Ash was there.
For all she knew, Ash would be in Rock Tunnel, training in the rocky cavern against powerful Pokémon. She wanted to meet him. It had been a while since they've last met.
The blonde shook her head to clear the thoughts, and planned her next move. She'll go to Vermillion most probably. It wasn't confirmed since she wanted to head to Fuchsia instead but her supplies said otherwise.
The blonde stretched. "I'll figure it out after defeating Erika." Cynthia muttered and placed her material on the side table. She got up, deciding to prepare for bed.
Once Nidorino learned Work Up, she'll fight Erika. Until then, she'll work hard.
Her confidence couldn't take another hit.
Xxx
Nidorino had learned Work Up pretty quickly, surprisingly. Cynthia had him boost up using Work Up and charge against Braixen, pitting the two to fight.
It was a rather strange matchup but one she should've done earlier. Nidorino needed to fight against a fast opponent like Braixen. Though not the fastest, Braixen certainly held enough speed to give Nidorino a hard time.
Braixen didn't have many strong moves except Flamethrower and the new Solar Beam and her only physical options were Fire hit, Fire Charge, Quick Attack, and Scratch.
Cynthia wondered if she could upgrade her Scratch into something stronger. She had a rough idea which would surely be exploited later on.
Nidorino was a more rounded fighter than Braixen, the blonde would admit. With the new addition of Ice Beam, Thunderbolt, and Protect, he had nice coverage. The blonde wanted to teach him Mega Horn too. It was a strong move, and strong against Grass Types.
Cynthia had looked up Horn Attack and it was a bit of a complex move to use. Nidorino wouldn't be able to learn it in time for the Gym Battle tomorrow that was for sure. She'll have to risk it.
The blonde couldn't waste any more of her time in Celadon City. She wanted to defeat Erika as soon as possible and leave. Celadon may be less polluted than Saffron due to the greenery, but Cynthia wanted to explore the wild again.
She'll crave for civilization later on, but right now she wanted to escape it.
It was noon by the time Nidorino finished his training for Work Up. The blonde decided to challenge Erika after Nidorino and Braixen got checked and healed up from their light battle.
The blonde herself went for lunch, thinking over her strategies. Cynthia idly realized that she was overworking herself for the battle and should just believe in herself.
'Be ready Erika.'
Xxx
"Hello dear." The girl at the reception greeted. "Are you here for a rematch?" Cynthia nodded. "Erika has been hard on trainers a lot these days. Don't feel bad." She told her with an apologetic look.
"I'm not." Cynthia replied. The receptionist took her pokedex and quickly registered her up for her Gym Battle.
"Same arena." She told her. "She's battling a trainer already but his battle will most probably be at its end. Good luck."
"Thanks." The blonde pocketed her pokedex and headed for the battlefield. She entered and saw Erika hard pressed against the challenger.
The blonde took her seat as a spectator, looking at the match. She felt a bit surprised at the accent of the trainer. "Dodge into Thunder Punch!" His Electabuzz slammed his fist into the Victreebal's side.
'He's skilled.' Cynthia thought as the purple haired trainer pressed on, keeping Erika on the edge of the rope. He was a more offensively oriented battler than most trainers she had seen. The blonde couldn't help but feel happy seeing Erika's expression.
Victreebal finally fainted after a Thunderbolt and Erika returned her. The referee finished the match and declared the challenger, Paul, she heard, the winner.
"You're one strong trainer." Erika commented. Paul simply nodded. "Here's your Rainbow Badge." Paul took the badge from her palm and pocketed it, turning on his feet.
Cynthia got off her seat, taking her position. Erika looked at her and smiled. "Ready for your rematch Cynthia?" The blonde nodded. "I hope you're more prepared this time."
"Oh, you worry about yourself more." Cynthia replied. "Try not to maintain a defeat streak."
"Same can be said about you." Erika grinned. "Give me a minute." She walked off, leaving Cynthia alone.
"You from Sinnoh?" The blonde turned around and saw Paul.
"Yeah. You too." She said. Paul nodded. "How did you notice though? My accent?" He nodded. "You battled pretty nicely out there. Look skilled."
"If you say so." He shrugged. "You lost to Erika before?" Cynthia nodded, face flushing a bit. "Shouldn't have underestimated her."
"Yeah." Cynthia sighed. "Your name's Paul?" She asked for confirmation. Paul nodded. "My name's Cynthia." She extended a hand. Paul clasped her hand with his, shaking it. "Nice to meet you."
"Ready Cynthia?" Erika questioned. The blonde turned around and saw the Gym Leader standing there, three Pokémon in her hands. She nodded.
"Guess we'll meet later." Cynthia smiled. Paul nodded and turned on his heel. Hands in his pockets, the Sinnoh native walked out of the gym.
"He's one strong trainer." Erika told the blonde. "I'll say he's better than you too."
"That's assuring." Cynthia readied herself.
"The battle between the Challenger Cynthia Carolina and Gym Leader Erika is about to begin! Each side will use three Pokémon and the battle will be over when one side is out of Pokémon! Only the challenger can substitute Pokémon!" The referee stated. "Select your Pokémon!"
"Hope you've prepared better this time." Erika remarked, tossing a pokéball. Her Vine Pokémon came out, bouncing happily just as before. Cynthia smirked in response and threw her own Pokémon, releasing her Nidorino.
"Ready Nidorino?" Cynthia questioned her first capture. The Poison Pin Pokémon nodded, growling at Tangela intimidatingly. Cynthia had prepared for the Grass Type. She was pretty confident in this matchup.
"Are both trainers ready?" The referee questioned. The two females nodded and he swung his flags down. "Then let the battle begin!" Nidorino immediately fired off Poison Stings towards Tangela.
"Dodge dear. Then Vine Whip." Tangela dodged the pins easily and sent a few of his vines towards Nidorino.
"Fury Attack Nidorino!" Cynthia hollered. "Then Focus Energy!" Nidorino growled and jabbed at the vines with his horn, stabbing the vines and forcing them back. Tangela pulled his vines back lest get poisoned.
"Sunny Day Tangela." Erika murmured. Tangela changed the weather to his advantage, feeling refreshed. It also activated his ability Leaf Guard. Cynthia had expected that anyway.
"Work Up Nidorino." Cynthia ordered. She expected this much from Tangela and made sure to prepare.
"Solar Beam Tangela." Cynthia's eyes widened a bit at the aggressive style Erika was showing. Tangela swiftly charged up his Solar Beam courtesy of the Sunny Day and fired off the powerful blast.
"Ice Beam!" Cynthia retaliated. No use hiding her triumph card now. Nidorino fired off the Ice type move, the arcing beam meeting the Solar Beam.
Both collided and exploded against the other, cloaking the middle in smoke. Cynthia smiled as Nidorino took off in the smoke, no doubt trying to deal some damage to Tangela.
The Vine Pokémon, who was looking in the smoke with curiosity, felt someone approaching and jumped out of the way of a Poison Sting. He felt Nidorino tackle him from the side and deal heavy damage with Poison Jab.
Tangela stumbled back, stunned from the sudden move. Nidorino roared and launched a follow up Ice Beam which Tangela managed to block with Protect.
Nidorino, not giving up, rushed in and delivered a powerful Double Kick to the barrier. It cracked, and Nidorino quickly boosted himself with Focus Energy and broke through with Poison Jab.
Tangela threw his vines forward, the appendages wrapping around Nidorino and pushing him back. Nidorino strained against the vines, inching closer to Tangela who tried his best to push him away.
"Slam him down!" Erika ordered. Tangela quickly adjusted his vines for a proper grip and lifted Nidorino up. Cynthia was prepared for this strategy.
"Confusion!" Cynthia commanded. Nidorino, who had been trained for such situations, used Confusion on himself, slowing down his momentum and landing softly. "Now Work up and Fury Attack!"
"Shock Wave now!" Erika commanded hastily. Tangela released current in his vines, shocking the Poison Pin Pokémon wrapped in them. Nidorino didn't care and pushed through, stabbing through the vines into Tangela repeatedly.
Cynthia smirked as Nidorino continued to deal damage to Tangela. This was going much better than the first match. Erika herself was gritting her teeth and struggling to find a counter.
"Push him back!" She commanded. Tangela wrapped his vines once again against Nidorino and pushed him back with all his might. Nidorino roared, boosting up with Work Up, and pushed through.
"Poison Jab!" Nidorino stabbed Tangela again, delivering potent poison in his body. The Sunny Day overhead activated his Leaf Guard, however, and the poison was neutralized.
"Stun Spore!" Erika ordered. Cynthia's eyes widened. She had completely forgotten about that!
"Double Kick and Confusion! Kick him away!" The blonde instructed. Nidorino raised his fore legs and kicked Tangela hard; attack boosted nicely due to Work Up, and used Confusion to hit Tangela on both fronts.
Tangela, who was unable to resist any of the two hits, was sent rolling back towards Erika. "Ice Beam!" Nidorino quickly followed up with the arcing tri cyan colored beams.
"Protect into Grass Knot Tangela." Erika ordered calmly. Tangela used his vines to stop his rolling and formed the green barrier. The Ice Beam struck the barrier and got blocked easily. One of Tangela's hands touched the ground and the grass shifted, turning into knots made to trip the foe. "Now Sunny Day into Synthesis."
"Focus Energy into Poison Sting Nidorino." Cynthia ordered. Nidorino shut his eyes for a moment, focusing his attention, and unleashed the needles of poison.
"Power Whip Tangela." Erika ordered. Tangela whacked the needles away once again while using Synthesis simultaneously. Cynthia looked at the Grass Knot and decided to get rid of it first.
"Poison Sting on the grass! Eliminate the Grass Knot first." Cynthia instructed. Nidorino adjusted his aim, hitting the knots in the grass and withering them away.
Erika made a wrinkled noise as her lush green grass withered. "Solar Beam Tangela!" Cynthia smirked. The princess was having anger issues now.
"Retaliate with Ice Beam!" Cynthia ordered. Once again, the two beams cancelled the other out. Nidorino rushed into the smoke again, finding a nice chance to hit Tangela.
"Grass Knot!" Nidorino didn't expect the grass to turn into knots again and trip him down. "So predictable." Erika commented. "Solar Beam!" Cynthia snarled at the obvious trap. Erika was pretty clever.
Well, so was she.
"Protect!" Nidorino formed a green barrier of his own, blocking the powerful Solar Beam. An explosion rang around him, forming smoke which cloaked the Poison Type.
"Ice Beam again!" Cynthia ordered. "Tangela cannot use Solar Beam so quickly again!" Nidorino hastily formed his Ice Type attack and fired it towards Tangela.
"Protect." Tangela blocked it with his own Protect. Nidorino rushed in on Tangela, Poison Jab ready. As the last of Ice Beam struck the Protect, Nidorino appeared in front of the Vine Pokémon and slammed his horn in.
"Nice." Erika remarked as Tangela's Protect broke against the Poison Jab and Nidorino struck him repeatedly with Fury Attack. "You've improved a lot from last time." Erika commented, looking at Cynthia.
"You haven't seen anything yet Erika." Cynthia retorted. "Let's see if you're prepared this time."
"Trainers like you are always there to judge me." Erika replied with disdain. "It's high time I decided to shut you up." Cynthia blinked. Where had that come from?
Tangela dodged the next couple of Fury Attack and slammed his vines on Nidorino's eyes. The Poison Type let out a grunt as his eyes were forced to close and the Vine Pokémon blasted him away with another Solar Beam.
Nidorino endured the blast and fired back with Ice Beam, trading heavy damage. The Vine Pokémon stumbled back, looking ready to faint. Nidorino himself was panting a bit from the battle though he was much better than Tangela.
"Focus Energy into Poison Sting Nidorino!" Cynthia ordered. Nidorino roared and unleashed his stinging needles again. Tangela dodged them and leapt towards Nidorino suddenly.
"Constrict!" Erika commanded. Tangela threw his vines and they wrapped around the Poison Pin Pokémon tightly, restraining his movement. "Now use Stun Spore!"
"Rip him off you with Confusion!" Cynthia hollered. "Then finish it with Double Kick! Fury Attack if need be!" Nidorino focused on his psychic capabilities, attacking Tangela.
The Vine Pokémon didn't give in though, sticking tightly to him and spread paralyzing pollen over him. Nidorino growled as he felt his muscles freeze and his movement was constricted.
Erika smiled and called for a Mega Drain. Cynthia was ready though. "Thunderbolt!" Nidorino's horn sparkled with electricity and, digging his legs in the ground, let it loose.
Tangela let out a pained cry and his vines lost a bit of their grip. "Shake him off!" Nidorino shook his body erratically, jumping in the air and landing on his side.
Tangela, already tired from the battle, was unable to hold on and got thrown off. Cynthia smirked triumphantly and called for an Ice Beam. Nidorino blasted the downed Tangela with the cyan beam, making him cry out.
"Tangela is unable to continue!" The referee declared after Tangela had stopped moving. "Nidorino is the winner! Gym Leader Erika, send out your next Pokémon!"
Erika returned her Grass Type and glanced at Cynthia. The blonde was crouched down next to Nidorino and praising him. The Grass Type Specialist couldn't help the smile on her lips and selected her next pokéball.
"Not many rookie trainers are able to get past my Tangela." She informed Cynthia. The blonde got up and looked at her. "He doesn't get challenged that much."
"But that doesn't mean you have won just yet!" Erika tossed her second pokéball. "Ivysaur, I choose you!" Cynthia raised an eyebrow at the second staged Pokémon.
She looked at Nidorino and his labored breathing. "Return for now Nidorino." Cynthia told him. "I'll call you out later." Returning her protective Pokémon, the blonde chose her next pokéball. "Go Braixen!"
The Fire Type came out face set into a determined look. Erika smiled at her appearance. "Ready Ivysaur?" She questioned her Grass/Poison Type. Ivysaur nodded.
"Ivysaur vs. Braixen! Battle Begin!" The referee began. Ivysaur growled and shot his vines towards the Fire Type who whacked them with her stick.
"Flame Burst Braixen!" Cynthia ordered. She didn't know much about how Erika's Ivysaur worked. She needed to get a feel for it first. Braixen inhaled and spat quick bursts of fire.
Ivysaur darted between the blasts, a sweet smell emanating from his bulb. Braixen readied her stick, igniting the tip on fire, and rushed forwards.
"Skull Bash dear." Bulbasaur lowered his skull and pushed forward. Braixen, feeling the force behind said strike, cleverly dodged the attack by side stepping and swung her stick down.
Bulbasaur endured the hit on his side without much difficulty and skidded to a stop. Sending vines forward, he tried to get the Fire Fox in them.
Braixen whacked them away, not giving in either. Ivysaur emitted more of his Sweet Scent, making Braixen slack. Cynthia realized it and ordered a Flamethrower.
Ivysaur endured the flames, his form getting enveloped in them. Cynthia noted that the Sunny Day had worn off, taking their advantage with it.
"Stay alert Braixen!" Cynthia called out. "Don't fall victim to the Sweet Scent!" Braixen stopped her Flamethrower and saw Ivysaur in a surprisingly good condition.
"Take Down!" Ivysaur lunged forwards, slamming into Braixen and sending him stumbling back. "Toxic now!"
"Get away with Quick Attack!" Cynthia ordered hastily, wondering just how strong Ivysaur's defenses were. Braixen quickly found her footing and dashed back, creating a gap between them.
"Grass Pledge!" Ivysaur growled and pillars made of sharp leaves rose in the air. He sent them towards Braixen who jumped between them with Quick Attack. "Now Vine Whip!"
"Flamethrower!" Cynthia countered. Braixen inhaled and let loose another blast of flames. Ivysaur changed to Take Down, rushing between the flames to Cynthia's surprise.
Braixen intensified her flames, wanting to capitalize on the moment. She did now expect for Ivysaur to actually push through the flames and tackle her face.
Braixen stumbled back and Ivysaur wrapped his vines around her. Pulling her in, he bit into her neck, delivering potent toxic in her body. Braixen slammed her stick into his belly, making him gasp and spun, whacking him again with greater momentum.
Ivysaur hit the ground, growling a bit at the hit. Cynthia saw light bend a little strangely around Ivysaur and she came to a realization. "Light Screen! Ivysaur has Light Screen active!"
"Finally, you figured it out." Erika smirked. "Magical Leaves!" Ivysaur shook his petals, sending glowing leaves towards the Fox Pokémon. Braixen unleashed gout of flames, burning the leaves.
"Rush in with Quick Attack Braixen!" Cynthia ordered. Braixen readied her stick and ran in. Erika gave Cynthia a pitying look.
"Protect." As Braixen almost reached Ivysaur, a green barrier slammed into her, sending her stumbling back. Ivysaur slammed into her again with Take Down. "Venoshock."
"Hypnosis Braixen!" As Ivysaur landed on Braixen, pinning her down to make sure his attack hit, the Fox Pokémon stared into his eyes hypnotizing.
"Get away!" Erika yelled in alarm. Braixen grabbed Ivysaur, forcefully making contact. The evolved form of Bulbasaur decided to use Venoshock instead.
Braixen screamed from the pain but her Hypnosis managed to lull Ivysaur into sleep. Cynthia grinned a bit, and then saw Braixen suffer from the Toxic. She needed to end this battle fast.
"Back to back Fire Hit!" Braixen lifted her stick and began to whack Ivysaur hard. Erika bit her lower lip and looked at Cynthia who was staring at Braixen anxiously.
"You're pretty clever." She remarked. "I didn't really expect this much from you." Cynthia blinked at the praise. "Given our first battle, I thought you'll leave me for later. Not many trainers can endure such a humiliating defeat."
"I'm partly at blame too." The blonde admitted. "I shouldn't have underestimated you. You're the Gym Leader for a reason." Erika's smile turned sour at that.
"Your Braixen is about to faint." She commented. Cynthia looked at her starter and found her panting heavily.
"End this with Flamethrower! The Light Screen is no more!" Braixen switched to Flamethrower, the scathing flames running over the sleeping Ivysaur.
Erika stared at the scene before sighing. Braixen's Flamethrower ended and she dropped face first down, right on top of the knocked out Ivysaur.
"Ivysaur and Braixen both are unable to continue!" The referee called. "Trainers, choose your Pokémon!" Cynthia returned Braixen, giving it well deserved praise. Erika did likewise.
"Hope you're ready for this one." Erika grinned. "Go Gloom!" Cynthia blinked as a blue, bipedal Pokémon with a large dark brown flower on its head appeared.
The second thing she noticed was the horrifying stench. She felt like vomiting and quickly covered her face with her sleeve. Erika seemed used to it though.
"My ace Pokémon, Gloom. Get through her and you'll win the Rainbow Badge!" Cynthia thought about her choice. Nidorino was a physical fighter so a big no.
Braixen had fainted or Cynthia would have opted for her. Flamethrower would've worked like a charm. Roselia could battle but Cynthia wasn't sure that she'll be capable of defeating Erika at her forte.
Squirtle was also a negative. He just didn't have the power to defeat the Weed Pokémon. His Ice Beam and Scald wouldn't hurt Gloom much, especially if it could use Sunny Day.
That left her with one choice.
"Buizel Battle Dance!" The Sea Weasel Pokémon appeared on the field, cringing immediately at the smell. "Sorry Buizel." Cynthia apologized. "Try to endure it." He nodded.
"Gloom vs. Buizel! Battle begin!" Gloom intensified her smell making Buizel feel woozy. Erika ordered for a Sunny Day, stacking the odds in her favor.
"Ice Beam Buizel!" Buizel unleashed the beam, managing to hit Gloom. Gloom recovered quickly though.
"Solar Beam Gloom." The Weed Pokémon fired off the blast very quickly, Buizel almost getting hit. The Water Type dodged though with the help of Aqua Jet. "Again."
Cynthia stared on in shock as Gloom kept on blasting Buizel. The Sea Weasel did his best to dodge, senses diluted from the stench. Erika had a smile on her lips the entire time.
"How are you able to endure it?" Cynthia asked Erika. The Gym Leader inclined her head towards Gloom.
"I'm used to it." She replied simply. "Hope you're too." Cynthia felt the urge to empty her stomach. She focused on the battle instead.
"Buizel use Sonic Boom!" Buizel slipped out of his Aqua Jet and swung his tail, sending a blast of sonic waves at Gloom's back. The Weed Pokémon dodged it though and turned with another Solar Beam.
'Buizel knows Rain Dance, right?' Cynthia reminded herself. "Rain Dance Buizel!"
"Solar Beam."
"Protect!"
As Buizel paused to summon the rain clouds, Gloom unleashed another powerful Solar Beam. The Sea Weasel blocked it with his Protect, managing to trigger the clouds.
Cynthia grinned as the harsh sun was overtaken by clouds which poured down. Gloom let out a disappointed cry as her Chlorophyll wore off.
"Now use Water Pulse Buizel!" Cynthia said, feeling confident. Buizel unleashed the Water Pulse quickly, his Swift Swim kicking in. Gloom was unable to dodge the attack and got hit.
"Grassy Terrain Gloom." Erika commanded. "Then Moonblast!" Gloom transformed the terrain to her advantage, feeling it boost her. She countered Buizel's next Water Pulse with her Moonblast.
"Ice Beam Buizel!" Cynthia ordered. The stench had lessened a bit after the Rain Dance.
"Counter with Petal Dance!" Cynthia noted that Gloom's main way to battle was Sunny Day Solar Beam combo. It was a very nice one, but not one she should reply on.
Though Erika didn't exactly expect an adversary that could change the weather.
The petals and Ice Beam met, cancelling each other out. "Energy Ball!" Gloom fired off the ball which Buizel dodged without even using Aqua Jet.
"Aqua Jet into Ice Punch!" Buizel slipped into his most used move, zooming in on Gloom pretty fast. He reared his fist back and slammed it into Gloom's face, sending it stumbling back.
"Giga Drain!" Gloom shot up tendrils that wrapped around Buizel's torso. He tore them apart with Sonic Boom. Buizel landed down and blasted Gloom again with Ice Beam.
"Stench!" Gloom intensified her smell making Buizel cringe and make some distance between them. "Now Sunny Day!"
"Aqua Jet!" Cynthia acted instantly.
"Protect." Buizel's quick reaction was useless as he bounced off the Protect. Cynthia growled as her strategy worked against her. The clouds vanished, replaced with the shining sun.
The stench turned tenfold and Gloom wasted no time in blasting Buizel with Solar Beam. Buizel let out a pained cry, hitting the ground hard in front of Cynthia.
"Buizel!" Cynthia called out in concern. Buizel got back up, slipping into Aqua Jet and dodging the follow up blasts. Cynthia noted that Gloom's injuries had vanished, evidence of Synthesis being used.
"Shocked?" Erika taunted. "Petal Dance! Spread all over the field!" Gloom spun, pink glowing petal shaped energy forming around her, and shot them in all directions.
Buizel did his best to dodge the petals, zooming all around the field erratically. Erika smiled again at Cynthia's face. Cynthia had the same face as in their previous fight.
"Block them with Protect and then Rain Dance!" Buizel landed down and, erecting a barrier, began to call the clouds again.
"Not working this time." Erika interjected. "Sunny Day in counter and Energy Ball. Let's see how much can Buizel focus." Gloom cancelled her Petal Dance after hitting it against Buizel's Protect and delivering nice damage to it. She drew her weather altering technique, feeling strained as Rain Dance struggled against it.
Gloom formed the Grassy Terrain boosted Energy Ball and fired it off. Buizel's Protect, already cracked from the Petal Dance, broke when the Energy Ball hit it and Buizel stumbled. The Rain Dance and Sunny Day struggle ended with Sunny Day emerging victorious.
Buizel slumped over, panting heavily. Erika grinned at Cynthia's look. "Solar Beam again!" Buizel saw the beam approaching and formed another Protect, feeling too tired to use Aqua Jet.
The Solar Beam broke through the Protect, however, and Buizel was blasted back. Cynthia gritted her teeth as the strain of using Protect continuously made it known.
Protect was a pretty advanced and nifty technique to use. It gave you strong protection against otherwise devastating blasts like Solar Beam, Blast Burn etc.
However, the drawbacks were pretty costly. One, it was very difficult to learn and its TM was pretty expensive as well. Second, it drained the user if used too much.
That's why Protect wasn't used where dodging or a less costly move like Light Screen could be used. Cynthia didn't know about the second drawback until the training she did yesterday.
"Enjoying Cynthia?" Erika asked. Cynthia, already feeling nauseous from the stench, gave her a scowl. "Gloom! Use Solar Beam! End this!"
"Aqua Jet Buizel!" Buizel gave her a tired look. "I know you can do it!" Buizel formed water around her and dashed forward. He saw the Solar Beam reach him instantly, and steered above it.
"Petal Dance!" Gloom spun, unleashing her powerful petals again. Buizel dodged them with sharp twists and turns, doing his best to last. Cynthia was chewing on her lower lip as she wondered how to get out of this fight.
An idea came in her mind.
"Vacuum Wave!" If Buizel was able to disorient Gloom for only a moment, they'll have a clean opening. Buizel turned and sent the fast wave, managing to hit Gloom. "Now Aqua Jet! The same path!"
"What are you planning?" Erika muttered. Buizel burst forwards; moving through the same narrow path the Vacuum Wave had passed, and reached Gloom.
"Protect." Erika seemed almost disappointed that Cynthia kept falling to the same trick. As Buizel hit the barrier and bounced off, she called for a Solar Beam.
"Vacuum Wave again!" Buizel swung his tail mid-air, sending another blast and managing to disorient Gloom for just a moment.
Something Cynthia desperately needed.
"Now Ice Beam!" Buizel inhaled and fired, hitting Gloom. To Cynthia's luck, it began to freeze over Gloom as well!
"Stench!" Erika ordered.
"Power through it! Use Ice Punch!" Cynthia said. If Buizel could deal some damage, then maybe she'll have a shot at winning. Buizel swung his fist back, feeling his head spin as the smell worsened at its core, and punched Gloom in her face.
Gloom blinked at the sudden punch. Buizel reared his second fist back as well and began to punch Gloom hard repeatedly. The Grassy Terrain had faded by then.
"Protect into Giga Drain." Erika guided calmly. Buizel's fists hit a barrier for a moment and tendrils wrapped around his torso. Buizel grabbed them; wanting it rip it off, when Sleep Powder descended on him.
"No!" Cynthia shouted in alarm as Buizel was lulled into sleep. Gloom sucked the remaining health from Buizel, feeling her own damage heal up.
"Just give it up Cynthia." Erika smirked. "You clearly cannot win against Gloom." Cynthia's saw her Water Type faint in the Giga Drain and slump down.
"Buizel is unable to continue! Gloom wins! Challenger, send out your last Pokémon!" The referee declared. The atmosphere was tense and smelling horribly as well.
"Buizel…" Cynthia whispered, returning him. "Epic battle boy. Keep up the good work." She pocketed the pokéball and looked at Gloom and Erika.
Only Nidorino remained, and he was paralyzed too. Could he take on Gloom? Cynthia shook her head and mentally chided herself. She wasn't going to give up so soon!
"Well?" Erika asked patiently.
"I'm not giving up so soon Erika!" Cynthia hollered with renewed confidence. "I'm not going to let the hard work of my Pokémon to go to waste just because someone wants me to!"
"We've worked hard, trained day and night, and if we've already defeated two Pokémon of yours, what's one more?" The blonde clutched Nidorino's pokéball.
"Sure. Go ahead then." Erika shrugged. "I'll personally enjoy your crushing defeat." A sadistic smile appeared on her face. Cynthia threw her final Pokémon, revealing Nidorino in all his glory.
Nidorino growled at the Gloom, tensing up. Erika gave him a contemplating look and nodded. "Final battle. Last chance to prove your hard work. Make it count."
"I will, don't worry." Cynthia vowed. "No holding back Nidorino! Gloom already has defeated Buizel." Nidorino growled in return.
He briefly felt the paralysis freeze him before fading. That would be a nuisance for the entire battle, Nidorino was sure of it. Gloom had healed up using Synthesis already, looking ready and new.
However, the Solar Beams had taken their toll on her. She was panting a bit and the Sunny Day had ended too. It was a fresh start to the battle.
Cynthia knew Nidorino didn't have his Work Up boost anymore and she'll have to set it up. Gloom's Solar Beam could blast Nidorino so she'll need to find a way around it too.
If Cynthia managed to get enough boosts up and deliver some Poison Jabs and Ice Beam, she was confident Gloom would succumb. However, Gloom still had the Sleep Powder as a threat.
Nidorino just may be able to push it away using Confusion. He also knew Peck! Cynthia remembered it just now. If Work Up boosted Pecks hit Gloom, they'll deal heavy damage and they might just be able to win.
'I'll just have to adjust on the fly.' Cynthia sighed. She nodded at the referee.
"Gloom vs. Nidorino! Battle Begin!" Nidorino immediately boosted up with Work Up while Gloom set up her Sunny Day. The blonde immediately took on an aggressive stance, ordering an Ice Beam.
"Counter with Energy Ball! Then Grassy Terrain!" Gloom retaliated the cyan beam with her Energy Ball, the boosted ball cancelling the Ice Type attack. The field was covered with Grass Type energy.
"Work Up!" As Nidorino boosted himself up, Gloom unleashed her destructive Solar Beam. "Protect!" Nidorino erected the barrier, successfully blocking the attack. "Now Focus Energy!"
"Keep using Solar Beam." Erika said knowing Protect wouldn't last very long. As Gloom charged her beams and fired off at a quick pace, Nidorino managed his Protect for a bit more.
"Ice Beam!" Cynthia ordered. Nidorino froze as the paralysis made itself known, and then fired his beam. His Ice Beam made contact with the Solar Beam, struggling before the Solar ripped it apart. "Now Poison Jab!"
Nidorino ran forward in the weakened Solar Beam, his horn sharp and boosted from the Work Up. The Solar Beam made contact with the horn and got blocked.
"Work Up again and then use Ice Beam!" Nidorino, feeling the Solar beam end, boosted himself once more and retaliated with his Ice Beam. Gloom quickly countered with Energy Ball.
Nidorino rushed in when the two collided, capitalizing on the moment. Imagine Gloom's surprise when Nidorino showed up at such a close proximity.
"Peck!" Nidorino jabbed his horn into Gloom, making her cry out in pain and get pushed back. Erika quickly asked for a Giga Drain and tendrils enslaved Nidorino.
"Make some distance!" Gloom quickly trotted back, taking advantage as Nidorino ripped off the tendrils off him. "Petal Dance! Keep him away!"
"Rush in with Poison Jab! Work Up again." Nidorino readied his horn and rushed in, breaking through the petals with his poisonous attack. Gloom managed to dodge his next attack only due to Chlorophyll. "Poison Jab and Fury Attack!"
Nidorino concentrated, combining the two moves, and was about to jab when the paralysis stopped him. Gloom made her move and blasted Nidorino back with Solar Beam.
"Keep up the Solar Beam! Synthesis." Erika commanded calmly. As Nidorino broke his paralysis and adjusted his Poison Jab, Gloom hastily tried to heal herself up.
"Push through!" Cynthia pressed. "Gloom cannot fight you in a physical fight!" Nidorino grunted and pushed through, his Poison Jab cutting through the Solar Beam.
"Moonlight dear. Keep him at bay with Protect." Erika guided calmly, knowing she had the match in her favor. Nidorino reached Gloom and jabbed forward just to meet a Protect barrier.
"Break through with Focus Energy and Poison Jab!" Cynthia commanded in frustration. Gloom healed herself up nicely with Moonlight, making their efforts for naught.
Nidorino slammed his sharpened horn in the Protect, forming cracks and managing to break through. Nidorino then rushed forwards, slamming a Peck into Gloom.
"Petal Dance!" Gloom spun around, pushing Nidorino away with Petal Dance. Cynthia saw Nidorino flinch from the paralysis and clenched her fists.
"Ice Beam!" Nidorino formed the beam and fired it off though it got deflected from the petals. Erika smiled at Cynthia's anger.
"Solar Beam."
"Protect!"
Erika watched in bewilderment as Gloom's Solar Beam blew up in her face, stunning the Grass Type. "Push through with Fury Attack and Peck! Don't let up!" Nidorino rushed forwards, slamming his Peck into Gloom and pushing her down.
"Try Petal Dance!" Gloom did her best but the pain from the repeated Pecks was making it difficult. Cynthia watched on with baited breathe, clenching her fist as Nidorino mauled Gloom.
Nidorino felt his muscles stiffen yet again and growled. Gloom tried to take advantage but Nidorino delivered a makeshift Double Kick to her face.
"Finish this!" Cynthia urged. The Sunny Day above vanished, drawing off Gloom's Chlorophyll boost and enhanced senses. Nidorino felt the paralysis hinder him again.
"Petal Dance!" Erika hurried.
Gloom wasn't fast enough.
"Peck!" With the Sunny Day having worn off, Gloom wasn't fast enough. Nidorino's Peck slammed into her and knocked her out, sealing Cynthia's victory.
"Oh my." Erika mumbled at Nidorino's savagery.
"Gloom is unable to continue, Nidorino wins! The victor of this battle is the Challenger Cynthia Carolina!" Nidorino let out a triumphant cry as his victory and collapsed down.
Cynthia ran on the battlefield, approaching her first capture, and suddenly felt woozy. She stumbled and landed down, feeling her breakfast rush to her throat.
Her eyes watered at the feeling and she stayed still for a few moments. "Easy." Erika approached the blonde and crouched next to her. "Here." Cynthia took the offered berry and chewed it. "Stay down."
Nidorino approached her, growling worriedly. The blonde rubbed his face, careful not to prick her finger on Nidorino's poisonous spikes or horns.
"Great job Nidorino." She complimented. "If anyone is able to defeat that Gloom, I have no doubt it'll be you."
"It's a huge surprise he stayed so close to Gloom." Erika commented. "Most Pokémon wouldn't risk getting into a close quarters fight with Gloom due to the stench."
"We don't mind going the extra mile." Cynthia giggled. "So, I finally make you eat your words."
"Yup." Erika smiled. "You've passed the test." She reached inside her kimono and produced a Rainbow Badge. It was more decorated than the Cerulean and Pewter badge, being shaped like a flower with colorful petals and showing a bit grass.
Cynthia took the badge, smiling proudly. "We did it." She pulled out her badge case and fixed it at its place. "Three down, five to go." The blonde got up.
"Good luck for your future endeavors Cynthia." Erika wished. "Do return after growing some more. I'll show you my true strength then."
"Sure." Cynthia returned Nidorino and turned on her heel. She exited the gym, feeling euphoric.
She had won against Erika.
Her confidence seemed to increase suddenly.
Xxx
And done! Hope you've liked the longer chapter! The next chapter will be uploaded in the next week, most probably next Monday, so stay tuned! Keep reviewing if you want longer, consistent chapters! Wanna suggest me something? Review. Wanna ask me something? Review. Wanna spread hate? Review. Wanna give constructive criticism? Review!
Response to Reviews:
Ga Pokémon Fan: Don't worry! I have a lot of plans for every character!
Guest: Thanks for the support!
Hero of all: Well, Ash is a rookie! He has a long way to go before becoming elite! And you wished for longer chapters so here it is!
UltimateCCC: I've decided not to involve the Pokémon that evolve through trading like Haunter and Rhydon. I'll introduce a different method in the later chapters. Unlucky about the freak storm! I was actually wondering where my loyal reader UltimateCCC was at XD.