(Friday Morning)
It was around 6:30am when the phone in Andrew's hotel room went off. It was his wake up call he requested when he got here yesterday. Andrew got out of bed and walked over to the bathroom and took a quick shower to cleaned up. The events of yesterday were still fresh in his mind and he felt he did what he had to protect the city even at the cost of forest damage. After showering he got dressed brushed his teeth and packed up his backpack with his laptop and then left the room. He took the elevator down and was now in the main lobby he had his backpack on and was pulling a bag luggage behind him.
"Good morning Mr. Hanson would you like me to call you a cab to take you to your destination?" asked the hotel worker.
"I would like that. Would you tell them to meet me down at the Pokemon Center please," replied Andrew.
"I sure will have a good flight and thank you for staying with us," said the hotel worker.
Andrew walked out of the hotel and into a cold November morning. He made his way to the Pokemon Center, he wanted to get his pokemon checked out before the long flight. Once inside Andrew walked up to the counter and asked the nurse behind the desk to check on his pokemon. She took out a tray and had Andrew put all six of his pokeballs on it after doing so the nurse walked into the back with them. Andrew took a seat on the couch and waited for her to return, as he was waiting Andrew glanced outside and saw the taxi pull up and the driver get out and walk inside. The driver walked over to where Andrew was sitting.
"Good Morning I'm here to pick you up I guess," said the cabbie.
"I guess so my pokemon should be back here in a minute then we can leave," replied Andrew.
"If you don't mind I can put your bag in the trunk if you'd like," said the cabbie.
"You sure can," replied Andrew.
The cabbie took the bag in front of Andrew and his backpack and walked back to his cab with them. He set both of them in the trunk and walked back in.
"Once you are ready I'll be waiting in my car," said the cabbie walking back out.
Andrew was now back waiting for the nurse to return with his pokeballs. A few minutes later he heard someone coming down the stair, he turned his head a bit and saw Katie walking down and over to him she yawned as she was walking over to him. She took a seat next to him on the couch she laid her head on his shoulder.
"Morning," said Andrew.
"Yeah, so someone's up early," replied Katie.
"You would be too if you had an early flight to London to catch," said Andrew.
"Yeah I guess," responded Katie rolling her eyes.
"What's that suppose to mean," replied Andrew.
"I mean what's the rush I'm here and don't you want to spend time with me," joked Katie looking up at Andrew with those puppy dog eyes.
"As much as I would love spend time here with you and I would, but I also have a job to do and that comes first. I'll bring you something back from London," replied Andrew.
"I know it does I only kid with you. Have a safe flight and going back to bed I'm still tired," said Katie standing up.
"Sweet Dreams," Andrew said before Katie walked up the stairs.
"Andrew promise me one thing make sure your in one piece the next time I see you since I know you'll be flying from London to LA after your done in London, Katie asked Andrew.
"I promise next time I see you I'll be in one piece," replied Andrew.
Before Katie walked up the stairs Andrew walked over to her. Katie hugged him gave him a kiss and walked up the stairs. The nurse had just returned to the counter as she went back up.
"Excuse me sir, but your pokemon are ready," said the nurse getting Andrew's attention.
Andrew took his six pokeballs off the tray and put them on his belt. He then walked outside and into the taxi that would take him to the airport.
(A 30 minute Taxi Ride Later)
Andrew has finally arrived at the airport. The taxi driver got out of the car and opened the trunk just as Andrew got out of the backseat. Andrew walked to the back and grabbed his backpack and put it on and then pulled out his bag. Andrew paid the cabbie for taking him and then walked into the airport. He walked up to the counter and handed the lady his ticket and passport.
"So Mr. Hanson it appears your heading to London, England," said the lady.
"I am I have business to do there," replied Andrew.
She takes part of the ticket and hands Andrew everything back and then he left over to the waiting area. Andrew took out his phone sent a message to Jen and then shut it off. And waited around for about 30 minutes before he boarded the plane. He took a seat and he had to wait again before the plane could leave. Andrew took out his laptop out of his backpack and then took out earbuds and put them in and then worked on something after waiting a short period the plane was finally ready to take off. Andrew shut off his laptop and put it back in his backpack, he listened to the pilots instructions before takeoff, he buckled up and shut off all his electronics. After explaining everything the pilot then turned on the plane and ready for take off they made their way down the runway and finally into the air.
(Back at the Pokemon Center)
A few hours after seeing Andrew, Katie got back up again from her sleep. Brady and Emma were still asleep, Zac was downstairs. Katie got up out of her bed and went over to the bathroom and got dressed for the day. She grabbed her six pokeballs and walked downstairs. She saw Zac sitting on the couch. He heard Katie come down and looked at her.
"Hi Katie," said Zac.
"Good morning," replied Katie.
"What's so good about it," responded Zac.
"Fine someone's not in a good mood," said Katie.
"I wonder why. My battle with Daniel two days ago, Andrew and you," replied Zac.
"What's that suppose to mean?" Katie questioned Zac starting to get angry with him.
"Where do you want me to start. Oh I now let's start with Daniel and how lucky he can get. I mean my team can beat his any other day of the week I just had bad day that's all. Next there's you, your happy go lucky attitude is annoying I mean you act like a kid and I don't get how I ever liked you and Andrew, he's just not a good Champion. Where is he now that's right on some paid vacation to London I'm surprised he didn't take you it would be a lot more quite around here," replied Zac.
"You know what your problem is Zac, you can't accept things. You can't accept the fact that Daniel beat you fair and square two days ago. Next you can't accept the fact that I'm happy with my life, and I wouldn't have gone with Andrew even if he offered I want to travel this region and collect gym badges and make it to the Champion's Cup. And with Andrew I think your just jealous of him he has everything you can dream of Zac. He is a Champion and a very good one, and the fact that he won my heart even though I have known you longer," Katie shot back.
"How can I be jealous of him. He won't be champion that long because as soon as my team is done and I win the Champion's Cup I'll embarrass him in front of New York, then go on and beat him in DC and take that title from him," replied Zac.
"Zac your way out of his league, and in order to win the Champion's Cup you would have to battle me and I can beat your a** up and down an arena," retorted Katie.
"Let's just see if you can even do that. If I'm right we didn't finish our battle from Boston because of your Absol so let's finish it right here right now so I can prove to you that you'll never be better than me," said Zac.
"Fine let's go then outside so I can show you," replied Katie.
Zac and Katie walked outside and over to the training arena. Zac walked to one side, Katie to the other.
"So three on three then Zac because we have a gym battle today?" asked Katie.
"Yeah sure and this time I'm going to show you that I have always been better than you," replied Zac.
"Then go ahead and call out your first pokemon," said Katie.
"Fine go Skarmory," said Zac.
"Go Sliggoo," said Katie.
(Katie vs. Zac)
"What a joke you go out to a gooey slug. I highly doubt that slug can do anything against me," laughed Zac.
"I don't know what is so funny about this Sliggoo here is more than ready to take on what you want to throw at him," replied Katie.
"Skarmory use agility. Then follow up with steel wing.
Skarmory moved rather fast in the air doing this increased his speed. After speeding up Skarmory let out a cry and then flew at Sliggoo with his wings all sliver. Skarmory nailed the Soft Tissue pokemon and sent back. As Skarmory flew away from him Zac noticed that some of the goo on Sliggoo's body was now on Skarmory's wings. He didn't know what that would yet and thought nothing of it.
"Sliggoo use rain dance,"
"Skarmory use steel wing again,"
Sliggoo sent a ball of water into the sky and clouds begun to form around the arena and then it started to rain. The rain made the arena a bit muddy that could play a factor later on in this battle. Skarmory dove with his wings all steel again at Sliggoo. Skarmory's attack nailed Sliggoo again sent him back just right in front of Katie. More goo appeared on Skarmory's wings Zac still played it off.
"Sliggoo use dragon pulse,"
"Skarmory will dodge that with ease and then he'll use aerial ace,"
Sliggoo made a green/bluish ball in front of his mouth and once the attack was ready Sliggoo sent it at Skarmory. To Zac's surprise Skarmory didn't dodge it and the attack sent the bird into the ground.
"What? How was that possible Skarmory is way faster than your damn slug," asked Zac.
"I wouldn't be so surprised Zac. My Sliggoo here as the ability gooey and what that means Zac is when your pokemon make contact some of Sliggoo's goo gets stuck you and slows you down," replied Katie.
"Whatever, Skarmory use roost,"
Skarmory landed and picked the goo off of his wings. His speed might not be the same but his wings were clean of the goo and that's that.
"Skarmory use sky drop,"
Skarmory flew over to where Sliggoo was and picked him up and lifted him high into the air. Before Skarmory could drop him something happened to Sliggoo, he was all white, he was evolving. When the white had faded out Sliggoo was no longer Sliggoo, but was Goodra.
Goodra was taller and larger then Sliggoo. Goodra has two sets of antennae. The larger ones curve toward his body while the smaller ones don't. Both sets can retract in and out. Goodra now had a large tail that curved towards his body as well. Goodra was no longer blind like his pervious forms. Goodra had green goo dripping from his chin.
This can't be happening," commented Zac.
After evolving Goodra drove Skarmory to the ground with him. Just as they got closer to the ground Skarmory let go of Goodra and he landed on his feet, Skarmory flew just in front of Zac.
"Skarmory use aerial ace,"
"Goodra use dragon pulse,"
Skarmory dove at Goodra white streaks coming from his beak. Before Skarmory could reach Goodra, he sent out a rigid light blue beam of ice. This beam of ice nailed Skarmory and froze him solid. The Armor Bird pokemon dropped from the sky and flat on the ground.
"Return Skarmory and go Zweilous," ordered Zac.
"I'm going to stick with Goodra," replied Katie.
(Near the Battle)
"Why are we out so early?" asked Caitlynn.
"Well I thought we'd go get breakfast, then I thought we could get some training in before your Contest," replied Daniel.
"I guess we should," said Caitlynn.
The two of them kept walking up till they got to the Pokemon Center. While walking by they heard a battle going on behind it. He recognized one of the voices as he heard Zac saying something.
"That sounds like the punk from a couple days," said Daniel.
"I wonder who he's about to lose to now," said Caitlynn.
"Let's take a peak and find out," replied Daniel.
The two of them walked to the back and took a seat. They saw that Zac was battling another person they just meet, Katie they had just saw her last night at dinner with Andrew.
"He battling Katie, with any luck and get a chance to see this Absol she talked about," said Daniel.
"Are you really intrigued about her Absol?" asked Caitlynn.
"Yeah I am, She had said something about him being able to use Hypermode and since I really want to see him," replied Daniel.
(Back to the Battle)
"Zweilous stopping nipping at each other and use dragon pulse,"
"Use dragon pulse as well Goodra,"
Zac's Zweilous' two heads stopped nipping at each other and both heads sent a beam of dark blue energy at Goodra. Before reaching Goodra the two attacks became one. Goodra opened his mouth and sent a dark blue pulse that matched Zweilous' attack. They were even till one of the Zweilous' heads gave up attacking and went back to nipping at the other one. Goodra's blue beam blasted through the single heads attack and nailed Zweilous.
"Zac really needs to work with his pokemon," commented Daniel watching the battle.
"I'm done," said Zac returning his Zweilous and walking off.
Katie rolled her eyes and walked over to her Goodra. Goodra grabbed her and gave her a big hug. After a few minutes Goodra set her back down.
"I'm covered in goo. Thanks Goodra," Katie laughed.
Katie returned Goodra and walked back into the Pokemon Center. She saw Zac run off but she really didn't care where he ran off to. Zac was acting like a sore loser. Daniel and Caitlynn left the back of the Center and continued back to getting breakfast.
(Inside the Pokemon Center)
Once inside Katie saw Brady and Emma up they were both downstairs eating. Katie walked upstairs and took a shower to wash off the goo and then returned downstairs to find Emma, and Brady sitting on the couch. Katie walked over to them.
"Hey Katie have you seen Zac?" asked Brady.
"He ran off mid-battle with me. I don't know where he ran off to," replied Katie.
"Since I'm done I'll go find him," said Brady getting up and leaving.
"Katie come sit over here with me?" asked Emma.
Katie walked over to the couch and took a seat across from Emma.
"Want to explain to me what happened?" asked Emma.
"He was cranky when I woke up and I asked why. He blamed Daniel, Andrew, and me for it. He said Daniel was lucky two days ago, he's annoyed of my attitude, and he jealous of Andrew," replied Katie.
"Maybe you shouldn't have asked him about it maybe you should of just left it," said Emma.
"Why am I getting blamed for his anger issues?" questioned Katie.
"I'm not blaming you I'm just saying you egged it on some," replied Emma.
"I'm sorry for trying to help him I just thought maybe if he talked to someone it would help," said Katie.
"I just think he doesn't want to hear anything from you," replied Emma.
"I can understand why, but I thought maybe I can give him some friendly advice," said Katie.
"It's best for the time being we just let Brady talk to Zac because if we say the wrong thing he can go off like this. I would also like you tell Andrew to lay off of saying things to him. Zac fills anything Andrew says isn't helpful and he doesn't want to hear it from him," said Emma.
"Andrew's job is to help trainers you can't and Zac can't expect him to stop that. I know sometimes it may sound like he is being critical, but he isn't if Zac doesn't hear it from Andrew then who'll tell him. He won't listen to any of us and maybe it is best he hears it from someone like Andrew," replied Katie.
"I think it's best if he hears from the gym leaders that he loses to. It is their job to help a trainer," said Emma.
"Fine when Andrew calls I'll let him know to lay off on Zac," replied Katie running upstairs.
(At a Park Nearby)
"Ah, there you are Zac," said Brady walking up to him.
Zac looks from where he was to see Brady coming over. He was angry you can tell his hand was hurting, since he slammed it down on the bench a few times.
"Hey Brady," said Zac.
Brady took a seat next to him and gave him a water bottle Brady bought.
"So what happened earlier?" asked Brady.
"I don't want to talk about it I just want to sit here and just forget about it Brady," replied Zac.
"It's better if we deal with it now before our gym battle today, said Brady.
"I'm not battling the gym today I think I'm going to go explore some of the nearby cities and get some training in then next week I'll battle gym then. You three take care I'll catch up with you all later," said Zac getting up and walking away.
Brady got back and walked back over to the Pokemon Center.
(Back at the Pokemon Center)
Brady walked in and took a seat next to Emma.
"So how'd it go Brady?" asked Emma.
"Well Zac is going to go a couple towns over and get some training in, he said he'll catch up with later," replied Brady.
"Maybe that's best," commented Katie.
"After all this I actually agree with you Katie. He took a hard lose two days ago, and today's losing effort to you was just the icing on the cake," replied Brady.
"Now what do we do today?" asked Emma.
"Let's head over to the gym and battle the gym leader," replied Brady.
"Didn't Daniel say when we were ready to take on the gym leader to give him a call?" asked Katie.
"Yeah, he did I'll call him when we get there," replied Brady.
The three of them got their pokemon checked and then left the center to the gym. They remembered what Adrian had said to them that this gym leader was a ground trainer and that her Quagsire and Rhydon were her stronger pokemon. It took them about 20 minutes to finally make to the gym doors. Before they walked in Brady took out the napkin and his phone. The napkin had Daniel's number on it Brady called it, it rang a few seconds and Daniel answered.
"Hello, this is Daniel," answered Daniel.
"Hello Daniel, this Brady I thought I'd call you and let you know we were going to go battle the gym leader," said Brady.
"Cool, we'll head over there now," replied Daniel.
(Inside the Gym)
The three of them walked in and once inside they saw a young lady standing in the waiting area. She had brown hair, but it was covered up by a hat. Her clothes were covered in dirt from digging. She noticed the three that just walked in and walked over to them.
"Good afternoon you all my name is Payton and I'm the 10th gym leader and welcome to my gym," introduced Payton.
"It's nice to meet you, my name is Katie and this is Brady and Emma we are here to challenge you to gym a battle," replied Katie.
"Good, I've been eager to battle someone, it's been a few days since I had a challenger, so if you three will follow me I'll show you around," said Payton.
A minute after she said that Daniel and Caitlynn walked in and joined the three already.
"Well long time no see Daniel and Caitlynn," said Payton as they walked in.
"It has been awhile since I've been here," replied Daniel.
"Well then if all of you would follow me," said Payton.
Payton walked down a long hall into the battle arena to the left were a small set of bleachers and to the right was another small set of bleachers. The arena was covered in dirt with rocks scattered around the arena.
"Now let me ask which one of you are first?" asked Payton.
"I'll go first this time," replied Emma.
"Well then young lady follow me while your friends can go up the stairs and take a seat on the bleachers," said Payton.
Brady, Katie, Daniel, and Caitlynn all walked up the stairs and took a seat in the front row. Emma took her spot on the arena. Payton walked into the back and got four pokemon and walked back into the room and took her spot. A ref walked and she too was covered in dirt she must be one of Payton's assistant's.
"Before this battle I fill the need to explain just a little bit about me. I study the ancient mystery of the regi pokemon. If you don't know who they are then let me explain. We have four of them, but to get to the final one all three of them have to be together. The three I refer to is, Regirock, Regice, and Registeel. I believe one is in the cave just north of here and that would be Regirock. My team and I have been digging down and trying to find him, but we have had no luck and didn't help that the Pokemon League closed the cave and the area around it yesterday. So we resumed digging today I just got back," said Payton.
"I know I saw Regirock yesterday," said Daniel.
"You What?" asked Payton looking up at him.
"Yeah we saw him he protected Mika's and Caitlynn's pokemon," replied Daniel.
"After my battles I need to know more I would like to talk to you two then," said Payton.
"Ok we'll talk," replied Daniel.
Payton then switched her attention back to the trainer in front of her.
"So Emma you ready to battle?" asked Payton.
"Yes I am," replied Emma.
(Gym Battle: Emma vs. Payton)
"I will now allow my ref to explain the rules," said Payton directing Emma's attention to the ref.
"This will a four on four pokemon battle, only the challenger to the gym leader Payton can substitute. This battle will be over when either Payton's or the challengers four pokemon cannot go on. The gym leader will call out her first pokemon," explained the ref.
"Go Sandslash," said Payton.
"Go Swanna," said Emma.
"Going right out to Sandslash's weakness that's smart thinking on your part," commented Payton.
"Thanks I guess," replied Emma.
"Hmm.. Sandslash use swift,"
"Swanna use air slash,"
Sandslash stood for a moment and sent six stars at Swanna. Swanna flew around to avoid the star, but she couldn't shake them. Once Swanna stopped the stars nailed her, she covered her face with her wings. Swanna was sent into the ground after taking the stars. Swanna shook it off and then sent blades of wind at Sandslash. Sandslash brought up his claws in a defense manor to reduce the damage.
"Swanna use water pulse,"
"Sandslash use the nearest rock as cover,"
Swanna got back into the air and brought her two wings together and made a ball of water in between them. She then sent it at Sandslash. Sandslash moved fast and took cover behind the rock just to his left. The ball of water hit the wall and did little damage to the rock.
"That was a smart move on Payton's part," commented Katie.
"She is a resilient gym leader," replied Daniel.
"Where's that stubborn jerk Zac I thought he traveling with you guys?" asked Caitlynn.
"He left to do some training earlier," replied Brady.
"Let me guess right after he took off from battling Katie," said Daniel.
"How did you know about that?" asked Katie looking over at Daniel.
"As we were walking by for breakfast I heard the battle going on and we took a peak to see it," replied Daniel.
Everyone returned their attention back to the battle.
"You have to remember Emma, that this arena plays an advantage and you have to be able to recognize that," stated Payton.
"I should have taken that into consideration," replied Emma.
"Sandslash now jump onto the rock and use stone edge,"
Sandslash jumped from behind the rock to on top of it. Rocks then started to circle his body, after circling for a few seconds he sent the rocks at Swanna. Emma quickly recalled Swanna before she could get hit by those rocks.
"Go Floette," said Emma.
"A fairy type this should be an interesting battle then," commented Payton.
"Floette use energy ball,"
"Take cover behind the rock again Sandslash,"
Floette removed one of her hands from her flower and made a green ball of energy in front of that hand. Once the attack was ready she sent it at Sandslash who had just dove behind the same rock. Floette sent the ball of energy at that rock, when it hit the rock, the rock finally showed some weakness as it begun to crack.
"Another strong hit to the one rock Sandslash is behind will destroy it," commented Daniel.
"Sandslash use poison jab,"
"Floette wait for the right moment and use energy ball,"
Sandslash got up on top of the rock and then one of his claws became coated in poison. He jumped from rock to rock till right before Floette, Sandslash then jumped at Floette who already made a ball of energy and sent it at him just as he was jumping at her. The ball of energy nailed Sandslash and sent him crashing into the nearest rock.
"Sandslash is unable to battle, Floette wins," said the ref.
"Return Sandslash, and go Diggersby," said Payton.
"I know a grass type attack from Floette can still beat Diggersby, but Floette needs some rest, so Return. Go Blaziken," said Emma.
"I find this intriguing, Blaziken is super effective against ground type attacks, so you must have a plan then," commented Payton.
"Blaziken use blaze kick,"
"Diggersby catch him with ears,"
Blaziken jumps into the air and comes down with one of his feet on fire. As he got near Diggersby, Blaziken gets caught in one of Diggersby's large ears.
"Diggersby use hammer arm,"
With Blaziken caught in one ear, Diggersby made a fist with the other ear and slammed that fist into Blaziken. Blaziken was released from Diggersby's ear just as he got punched. This sent Blaziken into a rock nearby. Blaziken was slow getting back to his feet, but he did get back up.
"Blaziken use double kick,"
Blaziken ran at Diggersby who was slower then before and once again tried to catch Blaziken, but couldn't and took to kicks to the gut. This sent Diggersby to one knee. Blaziken wasn't done there, he then punched him right under the chin. It was a powerful sky uppercut attack, that sent Diggersby into the air and crashing just a few feet away from Payton.
"Diggersby is unable to battle, Blaziken wins," said the ref.
"Return Diggersby and go Quagsire," said Payton.
"This is one of those pokemon Adrian warned us about," said Katie.
"Quagsire gave me fits when I had to battle him too. Emma has to be well prepared to beat him," replied Daniel.
"I think she should be fine we all watched Andrew beat one with ease in Boston," said Katie.
"There's a difference between then and now. Andrew's pokemon are extremely well trained and Emma's I don't know yet so we'll have to see about that," replied Daniel.
"Speaking of which where is he and that brat you three were with two days ago?" asked Caitlynn.
"Andrew is on his way to London, and Zac left this morning to train his pokemon," replied Katie.
"That's good for him, he needs to work with his pokemon rather then catching the best," said Daniel.
They turned their attention back to the battle to see what Emma plans on doing to take on Quagsire.
"Return Blaziken, and go Floette," said Emma.
"So Emma you go back to your pokemon with grass moves, your doing this to counter Quagsire. I must say that is a smart move now let me show you some of mine," said Payton.
"I wonder what that's suppose to mean," Emma thought after hearing that.
"Quagsire use amnesia,"
Quagsire's mind emptied about any thought and concerns in this battle.
"Ok, Floette use energy ball,"
Floette took in some energy that lead to her flower to turn green and allow her to make a ball of energy in front of her hand. She then sent it at Quagsire who just stood in the same spot and took the hit. It was a super effective hit but it looked like it didn't faze Quagsire much.
"Quagsire use earthquake,"
The ground around the arena shook violently. Rock all around the arena came out of the ground Floette could not avoid them and was struck by the first rock that came up. The poor fairy pokemon fell to the ground and laid there.
"Floette is unable to battle, Quagsire wins," said the ref.
"Return Floette and go Venomoth," said Emma.
"Quagsire use amnesia,"
"Venomoth use psybeam,'
Once again Quagsire cleared his mind of any distractions. Venomoth sent a ray of peculiar colors at Quagsire who once again just stood there. Quagsire let this ray hit him knowing it would do little damage. After the rays were finished it left Quagsire confused.
"My poor Quagsire is confused this may come back to hurt me," Payton said examining the battle.
Emma was happy to see the end result from the psybeam. Brady, and Katie were happy to see that same result too, this gave Emma an opening she would just have to capitalize on it.
"Venomoth use zen headbutt,"
Venomoth's blue head turned light purple as he flew at Quagsire who just stood there.
"Quagsire use ice beam,"
As Venomoth flew at him Quagsire tried to attack but it ended up hurting himself. Venomoth then slammed his head into Quagsire and Quagsire fell back onto the arena.
"Quagsire is unable to battle, Venomoth wins," said the ref.
"You did what many can't and that is beat Quagsire after two amnesia's so that deserves some credit, but you still have my best pokemon left. Let's see if you can handle him," commented Payton.
"I'm ready to take him on," replied Emma.
"Then here we go. Return Quagsire and go Rhydon," said Payton.
"I'm going to stick with Venomoth," replied Emma.
"Rhydon, use stone edge,"
"Venomoth use psychic,"
Rocks circled Rhydon's body he sent an initial wave of rocks at Venomoth who used psychic to stop most of those rocks from hitting him. After stopping the psychic attack Rhydon sent another wave of rocks at him. This wave of rocks nailed Venomoth and after taking those rocks Venomoth fell to the arena.
"Venomoth is unable to battle, Rhydon wins," said the ref.
"So Emma your down to your last two pokemon, and your against one of my best, so what are you going to do to take down my Rhydon?" asked Payton.
"Return, Venomoth and go Swanna," said Emma.
"The water type Swanna. Let's see if she can take a rock type attack better than Venomoth. Rhydon use stone edge," said Payton.
"Swanna dodge it and use water pulse,"
Rocks circled Rhydon's body. Rhydon then sent those rocks at Swanna, Swanna avoided the rocks flying in a different direction. She then stopped and sent a ball of water at Rhydon. Rhydon brought up his arms to take the hit. Rhydon fell to his knees.
"Swanna let's finish this, use water pulse one last time,"
Swanna once again sent a ball of water right at Rhydon.
"Rhydon use stone edge,"
As Swanna was making the ball of water Rhydon stood up as rocks circled his body. He then sent these rocks at Swanna. Swanna had no chance to do anything, The rocks hit her and she fell to the ground and the ball of water fell with her.
"Swanna is unable to battle, Rhydon wins," said the ref.
"Payton's Rhydon sure is strong," commented Katie.
"Yeah it is. Her Rhydon has taken out two of Emma's pokemon. It all comes down to Blaziken," replied Brady.
"Her Blaziken can do it though we have already seen he has a fighting move, which can hit Rhydon hard, the problem will be getting around Rhydon's earthquake which could do a number to Blaziken," commented Daniel.
"Daniel that's right Payton here took you down to Blaziken as well and it was timely placed sky uppercut that won you the match," Caitlynn reminded Daniel.
"Yeah I remember that," replied Daniel.
They all looked back down at the arena. They saw Emma was looking more and more nervous, some of the earlier battle haven't taken her down to her last pokemon like Payton has.
"Return Swanna and go Blaziken," said Emma.
"Well Emma it all comes down to this one on one with my best pokemon now let's see what you got," replied Payton.
"Blaziken use sky uppercut,"
"Rhydon use drill run,"
Rhydon starts running at Blaziken the horn on his head spinning fast.
"Blaziken jump onto the rock to dodge it,"
Blaziken jumped into the air and landed on at rock. Rhydon still ran at him, Rhydon ran right into the rock and his horn smashed through the rock making Blaziken jump to the ground. After Rhydon's horn stopped spinning Blaziken ran at Rhydon and his fist connected right under Rhydon's chin in an upward motion. Rhydon fell to the ground and fainted once the punch was finished.
"Rhydon is unable to battle, Blaziken wins, and the winner is Emma," said the ref.
Emma and Blaziken walked over to meet Payton and her now recovering Rhydon in the middle of the arena.
"My oh my you sure surprised me on using the field to your advantage. Congrats Emma you deserve this more than you think," said Payton handing Emma the Horn Badge.
"Thank you, you were a very difficult gym leader," replied Emma.
"You have a lot to learn if your goal is to win the Champion's Cup Emma. If you had trouble with me imagine having to face the person that sat here and watched the battle," said Payton.
"You mean Daniel?" asked Emma.
"Yes, he is a very seasoned trainer and his pokemon are expertly trained and next to him I had a battle the other day with an older gentlemen I believe his name was Warren and he is also going to tough to beat," replied Payton.
"I'll keep working on it," said Emma.
"Good, Now which one of you two are next?" asked Payton looking up at Brady and Katie.
"I'll go," said Katie.
"Katie if you intend to use Absol remember what to look for and the signs of Hypermode," reminded Daniel.
"I know Daniel," replied Katie before walking down to the arena.
(Gym Battle: Katie vs. Payton)
"Before are battle let me go heal my pokemon," said Payton walking.
Payton returned a few minutes later ready to face Katie who was waiting for her in the middle of the arena.
"So Katie tell me about you and Andrew?" asked Payton looking at Katie.
"What do you mean?" asked Katie in response.
"I hear and know things my dear and I hear from someone you and him are together," replied Payton.
"That doesn't mean anything on this battle," said Katie angrily and annoyed at Payton for asking.
"Just calm down Ms. fiery temper. I'm just asking," replied Payton taking a step back.
Katie didn't give a response she just shot a glare at Payton. The glare showed that Katie was ready to get this gym battle on.
"Now my ref will explain the rules," said Payton before walking over to her spot in the arena.
"This will be a four on four pokemon battle. The challenger to Gym Leader Payton can substitute at any time in this battle. This battle will be over when either the challengers or the gym leader's pokemon cannot go on. Gym Leader Payton will call out her first pokemon," stated the ref.
"Go Diggersby," said Payton.
"Go Poliwhirl," said Katie.
"Diggersby use mud shot,"
"Poliwhirl dodge it and use hydro pump,"
Diggersby collected dirt in large ears and put it in his mouth to moisten it up. He then shot it off rapidly at Poliwhirl. Poliwhirl avoided each and every shot made at him. Poliwhirl then shot a torrent of water from the swirl on his belly at Diggersby. Diggersby looked around and then collected more dirt and shot that off trying to slow the water down. The torrent of water nailed him and sent him onto his back. Diggersby hopped back to his feet.
"Diggersby use take down,"
"Poliwhirl use hydro pump one last time,"
Diggersby rushed at Poliwhirl who once again sent a torrent of water from his belly. The water nailed Diggersby even before reaching halfway to Poliwhirl and sent him back into a rock then face down in the dirt.
"Diggersby is unable to battle, Poliwhirl wins," said the ref.
"Return Diggersby and go Stunfisk," said Payton.
"Return Poliwhirl and go Absol," said Katie.
"She isn't wasting time going out to Absol," commented Daniel.
"Is that a bad idea?" asked Emma.
"I'm not sure as long as Hypermode doesn't show we should be fine, but if it does then we might have a problem," replied Daniel.
"I hope Katie knows what she doing," Emma said nervously looking down at her little sister.
"I've heard about this Absol from Adrian and Sara. They both say he's something different altogether. I look forward to seeing what they mean," said Payton.
"My Absol is strong and I'll show you that," replied Katie.
"Stunfisk use earth power,"
"Absol use detect and follow up with dark pulse,"
The ground under Absol begun to erupt. Absol jumped out of the way to dodge the attack and then sent a pulse of dark energy at Stunfisk. Stunfisk couldn't move fast enough and took the hit. After taking the hit Stunfisk didn't move or attack.
"Absol use psycho cut,"
Absol's scythe turned purple and he rushed at Stunfisk who still couldn't move or attack. Absol slashed at him twice and then jumped back in front of Katie.
"Damn the dark pulse caused my Stunfisk to flinch, but I still don't seen anything special about him. He is strong though," commented Payton.
Then it happened Absol's eyes turned pitch black and he was surrounded by this dark aura.
"Oh my. This is amazing I haven't seen anything like this," commented Payton looking over at Absol.
Daniel stood up and walked over to edge of the stands to get a closer look. For a moment when he was talking to her about Hypermode he had some doubt, but seeing this has completely changed that.
"Absol," said Katie.
Absol looked over at her and then looked over back at Stunfisk.
"Absol use dark pulse,"
Rather than a pulse it more like a beam of dark energy. This beam nailed the poor Trap Pokemon and laid flat on the ground. Absol didn't stop there he then sent another beam just to the left of Payton.
"Absol, please stop," shouted Katie.
Absol heard her and shook his head and tried to stop, but the power was overwhelming and he ended up fainting. Katie ran out over to her Absol and comforted. When Absol came back his eyes were his normal red color.
Daniel was in aye of what he just saw, he has seen Hypermode before, but nothing like this. Time around Dan begun to slow down and freeze, and the next thing Daniel knew a Mewtwo and an old man were standing next to him. Daniel looked over at the two of them.
"I see your surprised to see me," said the guru.
"Yeah, I am," replied Daniel.
"Allow me to borrow some of your time to explain why I am here," said the guru.
"ok fill free it's not like I have to go anywhere everything around me is frozen," replied Daniel.
"Good, now if you haven't already noticed this Absol young Miss Katie has is differnet," said the guru.
"I have noticed that," replied Daniel.
"I think you need visual for the rest this," said the guru tapping his cane on the ground.
(Flashback 3 years ago)
"Where are we? and why am I in the middle of a dark forest?" asked Daniel.
"So many questions. They will be answered all in due time," replied the guru.
The guru then taps his cane again and everything picks up. Daniel and the guru begin to watch as Absol's begin to gather around. He then taps his cane again and now they are on a ship that belongs to the Dark Destroyer's also known as Team Darkness. In a room with a bunch of Absol's one by one they were taken away.
"What time period are we in now?" asked Daniel.
"A few months before Katie finds her Absol," replied the guru.
"Why are we here?" asked Daniel.
"This Absol Katie found on this ship months later watched as his friends and family were lead away never to be seen again," replied the guru.
"Why were they doing this?" asked Daniel.
"Watch and see," replied the guru.
He then tapped his cane and everything played again. Daniel and the guru watched as grunt after grunt forced every Absol in the room out and down a hall. Daniel and the guru followed the grunt to a lower level into a lab.
"Marcus are you sure this testing his safe?" asked the grunt.
"Sush you, your job is bring them to me not questions," replied Marcus.
"What his he doing?" asked Daniel.
"Well Daniel. Marcus was told by Goodsworth to test on these Absol," replied the guru.
"Test on them for what exactly?" asked Daniel.
"His device that let him control pokemon without capturing them," replied the guru.
"You can't be serious," said Daniel looking at the machine.
"This is all to real. It worked after 9 of the 10 Absol's brought here had died. It took two months to perfect the machine. They then went ahead and captured young miss Katie. Andrew being the person he is rescued her while battling they managed to open this Absol's door. He was hurt, beaten and cold he trusted no one. This changed after he meet Katie and she helped him. He instantly grew a bond with her," replied the guru.
"This doesn't explain why he has Hypermode?" asked Daniel.
"Yes Daniel it does," replied the guru returning them to normal time.
"Are you saying this bond he has with Katie is the reason for his Hypermode," said Daniel.
"Some of it, yes. The other part of it is he is willing to go above and beyond to protect Katie and wants her to be happy. We know young miss Katie doesn't care about how powerful a pokemon, but with this Absol things are different and in due time we'll see more of this and it will eventually lead to something," replied the guru.
"You mean Mega Evolution don't you," said Daniel.
"I can't say, but till next time," said the guru disappearing.
(After the flashback and back in Real time)
"Let's call that a double knockout shall we Katie?" asked Payton.
"Yeah," replied Katie returning Absol.
"There is no winner this round both pokemon were knocked out, both trainers will now select a new pokemon," said the ref.
Daniel took a seat next to Caitlynn.
"What a hell of a moment?" said Daniel under his breath.
"Did you say something Daniel?" asked Caitlynn.
"No, don't worry about," replied Daniel smiling at her.
Payton recalled her Stunfisk and Katie returned to her spot ready to continue the battle.
"Go Quagsire," said Payton
"Go Serperior," said Katie.
"Quagsire use ice beam,"
"Serperior use your tail to get into the air,"
Quagsire sent a rigid light blue beam of ice at Serperior. Serperior slammed his tail into the ground which allowed him to get into the air and dodge the ice attack.
"While in the air Serperior use energy ball,"
Serperior made a ball of green energy and sent it at Quagsire who just stood there. The ball of energy exploded in his face, after the smoke cleared Quagsire still stood there. Serperior landed just before the smoke cleared.
"Serperior use giga drain,'
Serperior once again slammed his tail into the ground and this he sent large vines right at Quagsire. Quagsire looked around just as the vines wrapped around him and his energy drained.
"Quagsire muster up some strength and use ice beam,"
Quagsire tried and tried to send a rigid beam of ice, but he couldn't muster up enough energy. After a short period Payton's Quagsire fainted from the giga drain.
"Quagsire is unable to battle, Serperior wins," said the ref.
"Return Quagsire, and go Rhydon," said Payton.
"Great job Serperior," said Katie.
"Well, Katie let's just see how well you can handle Rhydon here. My Rhydon took out two of Emma's pokemon," said Payton.
"I'm not afraid of your Rhydon, Payton, my Serperior here can handle him," replied Katie with a smile.
"I like your confidence Katie that shows a lot about you," said Payton.
"Thanks," replied Katie.
"Now let's test that confidence. Rhydon use megahorn,"
"Serperior slow him down with an energy ball,"
Rhydon ran at Serperior at full speed leading the way with his horn. Serperior made and sent a green ball of energy at the hard charging Rhydon. The ball of energy nailed Rhydon and slowed him down but didn't stop him.
"Serperior send a barrage of energy balls at Rhydon,"
Serperior sent ball after ball of energy at Rhydon. Once he was hit with them he continued to slow down till he was stopped.
"Hey Caitlynn that looked like what you do with Ninetales in contests" commented Emma.
"I know it did I usually send them into the air but that looked almost like it," replied Caitlynn.
"Serperior use leaf blade,"
Serperior slithered his way at the Rhydon. His leaf tail turned a solid green and then he slammed it right into the rock belly of Rhydon. Rhydon fell onto his back and fainted.
"Rhydon is unable, Serperior wins. The winner is Katie," said the ref.
Katie ran out into the arena and ran over to Serperior and gave him a hug. Payton and her now revived Rhydon walked over to them.
"This sure was one of the more intense battles, I have been a part of and you Katie you'll go far just keep up what you are doing," said Payton handing Katie the Horn Badge.
Payton looked up at the audience in the bleachers. She looked over at Brady just as Katie walked over and took a seat.
"That means there is one more of you, but after this battle I'm a little tired and my pokemon need some rest, So Brady if you could come back tomorrow I'd love to battle you then," said Payton.
"I'll come back tomorrow and face Payton," replied Brady.
"Great, I'll see you all tomorrow then," said Payton before walking into the back.
(After exiting the Gym)
Brady, Katie, Emma, Daniel, and Caitlynn all got up and made their way to the exit and left the gym.
"Katie before me and Cat take off, I must admit that Absol is something else altogether I thought for a minute when we talked about it you were kidding, but after seeing it first hand I was wrong. I also look forward to battling you and Absol one day. I'll see you all tomorrow to watch Brady's battle," said Daniel leaving with Cat.
"So now what?" asked Emma.
"I want to get back to the Pokemon Center and rest and tell Andrew about my gym battle," replied Katie.
"I just hope we haven't missed dinner at the Pokemon Center because I am hungry," said Brady.
The three of them walked over to the Pokemon Center. Once inside Brady and Emma walked into the dinning area to see the Nurse sitting down eating.
"You three are just in time for dinner. Let me get you a bowl and you three can eat," said the Nurse.
"I'll eat in a bit," replied Katie.
"Ok just let me know when you are ready," said the nurse.
"We are," said Brady.
"Ok then take a seat," replied the nurse.
Brady and Emma took a seat and the nurse walked over with a bowl of soup. She then placed it in front of them and they ate. Katie walked over to the stairs and went up too the rooms. She laid down on her bed and begun to think about Absol again. She then took out her found and called Andrew it rang twice before he picked up.
(In London, England)
"Hello Katie," answered Andrew.
"Hi," replied Katie.
"I hate flying sometimes. I hate going through Interpol and the screening. I have just had a bad day," said Andrew.
"That sucks, I won my gym battle though," replied Katie.
"Congrats, you are getting closer and closer. Did you use Absol?" asked Andrew.
"I did," replied Katie.
"So how'd it go?" asked Andrew.
"It seems he's getting better and better, but the power still gets to him," replied Katie.
"I think that is suppose to happen. Just keep working with him," said Andrew.
"Where are you Andrew? I hear a lot of noise in the background," asked Katie.
"I'm at some Shakespeare play with Cedric, Lana, and Antonio, one of Cerdric's elite four. I went to my hotel then here," replied Andrew.
"Did it just start?" asked Katie.
"No, we are at intermission so I'm out stretching my legs and trying to shake off this jet lag," replied Andrew.
"Get some rest Andrew. I'll talk to you later," said Katie.
"I'll try, talk to you later," said Andrew hanging up.
Katie left upstairs and walked back down. She joined her friends at the table and ate. After eating they all went to bed. Andrew watched the rest of the play and he then returned to his hotel for the evening.
Sorry for over a month delay, but things come up and stuff like that. So here it is the next chapter. I will try and get another two out before the Holiday Season but I won't make any promises. I will return doing weekly updates after the first of the year.
Trainer Update:
Katie and Emma won their gym battles.
Daniel experienced a moment with the guru explaining some about her Absol.
Poke Update:
Katie's Sliggoo evolved into Goodra.
Team Darkness Update:
none