Petalburg City mornings were usually peaceful. Parents and children alike walked down the streets, waving hello to their neighbors. Some animals tended to their gardens, while others worked hard on the streets, whether it was painting murals or cleaning up the roads. Today, the boys were at a local coffee shop, eating a fresh breakfast while planning out their day.
Kidd sipped from a large mug, the cappuccino steam billowing against his face. The faint taste of vanilla felt refreshing, even in the warm Hoennian sun. It was a very soothing smell, one that made his nose come alive and transported him to his happy place.
Benedict scribbled on a notebook, pushing his hair behind his shoulders. He drew a few circles, then added some lines. Despite all the writing, his wings were still clean.
"What are you writing?" Tank asked as he looked over from his seat. He took a bite from his crepes, savoring the strawberry and chocolate topping. It went well with the iced mocha he was still drinking.
"Just some plans for my rematch," Benedict said as he continued writing in his notebook. "See, I'm thinkin' of sendin' out Asuka when he sends out Maverick. That way she can tank his moves an' then splash back with an Aqua Tail!" He explained thoroughly, while showing them his notes. A few small doodles lined the margin, most of them being Poké Balls or shoujo eyes.
Tank peered closer at the notes. Messy writing usually annoyed him, but Benedict's writing style was very cute. Aw, did he add little stars next to Asuka's name?
"Maybe you should have the battle at that lake from last night?" Kidd pointed out, "You know, taking advantage of Asuka's water type and all that."
"You're able to decide the venue like that?" Tank questioned.
"Yknow what? You're right!" Benedict said as he grabbed Kidd's drink for himself, much to his annoyance. He chugged two mouthfuls; the vanilla cappuccino was pretty damn good! He set the mug back down, the liquid sloshing in its spot.
Kidd death glared at him, before grabbing Benedict's affogato and stealing a few bites. The vanilla ice cream was nice on top of the smooth espresso at the bottom of the cup.
"Hm, I should've ordered this instead," he mused.
Tank wrapped an arm around Kidd's waist
"I got it," he said before waving to the waitress. "Excuse me, miss!"
"Yeah?"
the waitress, a purple kangaroo with shaggy orange hair and tired dark eyes, hollered. "Whaddya want, brat?!"
Tank yelled back, "Can I get another affogato please? Oh, and two more orders of strawberry crepes!"
The waitress rolled her eyes, huffing as she went back inside. Damn kids! Always wanting something… At least they weren't asking for anything inappropriate, unlike the brats from Mauville City.
"...You didn't have to be nice to her" Kidd pointed out. "I mean, if someone called me a brat I'd fight her fight there and then."
Tank leaned in and whispered, "Do you WANT her to spit in your drinks?"
Kidd deadpanned, "Oh yes, spit, the best seasoning. Almost better than chili oil by the spoonful."
"At least you ain't tippin' her" Benedict said, still writing on his paper.
"Tipping?" Tank tilted his head. "Oh, that's a Unovan thing, isn't it!" He was always confused about the tipping culture. Isn't it the job's responsibility to pay their employees?
Butch strolled down the dirt road, whistling a joyful melody as he stopped at a red mail box. The door creaked as he slowly pushed it open, rummaging inside for his mail. He pulled out an armful and flipped through its contents; unnecessary credit card offers, coupons for places only in Slateport City, a letter trying to recruit him into joining Team Cottage?! Immediate trash!
Without hesitation, Butch threw every single letter in the trash, leaving behind a single beige package. With his razor-sharp rottweiler claws, he ripped open the box.
"Oh" he said to himself. There it was! An orange and purple Poké Ball, with two fruit stickers on top. This was that gift his friend sent him from Paldea! He held the Poké Ball out and waited. The Poké Ball rustled twice before something popped out.
A black hog Pokémon snorted as it sniffed the ground, its pink snout twitching in delight.
Butch kneeled down and held out his paw, watching intently as the pig sniffed his paw.
"Hey little guy," he cooed to the Pokémon. "You like what you smell?"
"Lechonk!" the pig snorted, then licked the bottom of its trainer's paw. Was that sweet potato?
"That'll do, pig," Butch assured the Pokémon before returning it to its Poke Ball. This was a pleasant surprise; he expected a larger Pokémon like Stantler or Ursaring, but a smaller Pokémon was always nice to have. And one he hadn't heard of to boot!
He just knew it was the perfect playmate for Dolly.
The Pokémon Center basement smelled faintly of bleach cleaner and sweat. Red and blue yoga mats lined the vinyl floor. Claw marks and indents scattered across the walls, with several posters plastered in-between. Large green reptilian dolls stood in the room, faintly wobbling in their spots. Benedict looked around the gym, taking in the view.
A Medicham balanced on an exercise ball, humming to itself as its eyes glowed bright Pikachu attacked a punching bag at the same time, one using Iron Tail and the other using Thunderbolt. A Machoke climbed up a rope, its muscles bulging as it got closer to the ceiling. Oh yes, this was perfect.
Benedict walked to a clear spot, then stood still as he tossed his Poké Balls in the air, releasing his crew. Kenshiro and Asuka roared at the top of their lungs, while Jojo and Makoto saluted their trainer. Coffret whistled as he sat atop Freiza's head, his soft wings brushing against Frieza's coarse fur.
"Alright everyone" he explained to his Pokémon. "We've gotta train so we can battle Butch again, and that's involvin' some new moves. So, who's ready to go first?"
Asuka fanned her tail at lightning speed, eager to show off her strength.
"Alright Asuka, you wanna go?" Benedict asked.
Asuka nodded twice.
"That's what I like to see!" Benedict encouraged his Pokemon. He led her to one of the reptilian dolls, looking around to make sure the other Pokemon wouldn't be disturbed. He undid his ponytail, then pointed ahead. "Now, Asuka, use Taunt!"
"Gyara!"
Asuka swayed her tail in front of her body, smugly grinning as her tail picked up speed. A small tornado formed at the fins. She threw her tail ahead of her body, the tornado dissolving into a small white cloud that blew into the doll's face.
"Great job!" Benedict cheered on his Pokemon. "Think you can keep that up for the rematch?!"
"GYAOOOOOO!" Asuka howled at the top of her lungs, beaming in pride from her newest move. No pesky Linoone was going to stop her reign of terror!
"Alright!" Benedict yelled back. "Who's ready to train next?!"
"Lai-RON!"
Kenshiro roared as he clawed his front legs against the ground, ready for action.
"Then let's go!"
Benedict pointed at the doll. "Kenshiro, use Stealth Rock!"
"Lairon, lai!"
Kenshiro barked before taking a deep breath. Crystal white stones emerged from his hide, brilliantly glowing as they torpedoed into the air. The stones zigzagged through the air, pelting against the doll and thrashing it in its spot, before moving away and orbiting around the doll like a solar system.
"That was perfect!" Benedict shouted to his Pokemon. "But aim more for the legs, okay buddy?"
The steel-type roared in delight, feeling powered up for the rematch. He curled into a ball and rolled back to his companions. Makoto used Psychic to stop Kenshiro in his tracks, then hovered in front of his trainer.
"Garde?" he asked as he bowed to his trainer.
"Sure, you can go next," Benedict nodded. He pointed back at the substitute doll. Hmm, what moves could a Gardevoir learn…. A-ha! "Makoto, use Moonblast!"
"Garde-voir!"
Makoto sang.
He held both arms out, his long skirt billowing in the air as pastel blue energy formed around his body. A cerulean and goldenrod ball of energy swirled in the palms of his hands, forming into a midnight blue moon. Twinkling lavender stars glowed in the air, powering up the moon.
Makoto threw his arms over his head. He screamed as his lunar energy blasted through the air, hurling the substitute doll across the air. Due to its soft fabric, the doll bounced against the wall and fell against the ground.
Benedict perked up, gasping in surprise.
"Makoto, that was AMAZING!" he gushed. "Please, keep that up when y'all can!"
Makoto turned to face his trainer, squeaking under his breath. He bowed to his trainer, then floated back to his crew.
Before anyone else could react, Frieza barked twice and ran in front of his trainer, wagging his tail as hard as possible.
"Okay, okay" Benedict chuckled as he petted Frieza on the head. "Let's go!"
"Ma-nec!" Frieza barked, clawing at the ground as he glared at a particularly large substitute doll. Tiny red sparks flew off his mane.
Fire Fang sounded good, but there was a move even better….
"Frieza, use Flamethrower!"
"Maaaaaa–"
Frieza howled as he turned his head up, a cloud of electric blue fire forming in his mouth. Orange and yellow sparks flickered in the cloud, charging with the dry air.
"Neee….."
Frieza threw his head forward, spewing a stream of orange and blue fire. The ray of fire zigzagged in the air, forming a lighting pattern before striking the doll in its spot. Flames and sparks flew from Frieza's body, knocking Benedict back a few steps.
"That…"
Benedict panted as he got back up. He wiped some sweat off his forehead. "...Frieza get over here!"
Frieza sprinted back to his trainer, wagging his tail as Benedict tacked him in a bear hug. The electric type licked his trainer's face, then squirmed free to celebrate with his teammates.
"Jojo?"
Benedict asked. "Y'all wanna go next?!"
"Com-BUSKEN!"
Jojo cawed, leaping towards his trainer. He glared at a substitute doll, sharpening his claws in anticipation.
Benedict clapped his wings
"Jojo! Hone Claws!"
"Bus-KEN!"
Jojo adopted a martial arts' stance, posing with one arm in front of him and his claws glowing charcoal black. He jumped and turned in his spot, furiously swiping the air as his talons grew longer and sharper. One can almost hear Jojo grunt out "Ken! Ken! Ken!" while clawing the air. He landed on both feet, turning back and nodding in understanding.
"That was perfect!"
Benedict cheered. Those talons could tear diamonds if they wanted to!
With both hands, Jojo high fived his trainer, careful not to slice up his arms. He ran back to his teammates, who cheered with him.
Benedict whistled, "Coffret, come on up!"
"Blu?"
Coffret whistled back as he flew to his trainer, perching atop of his head.
Benedict looked up at his Pokémon
"Um, Coffret? It's time to battle, alright?"
"Swa?"
Coffret chirped back, his stomach growling. "Blu…."
Benedict facepalmed. Did Coffret need even more to eat?! Everyone just ate an hour ago!
He set his backpack down and opened it up, rummaging for something that wasn't pocky. Oh, wait, there it is! He pulled an Oran Berry out, looking closely at the firm fruit. Hey, there's an idea!
He stood back up, tossing the berry into the air.
"Coffret, use Natural Gift!"
"Swa-BLU!"
Coffret chirped as he flew towards the berry, catching it and swallowing it in one bite. Thick purple energy glowed from his antennae and wings.
He barrel rolled through the air, tackling the substitute doll and using his beak to throw it across the air.
Benedict laughed as Coffret perched himself on his head. He made a mental note to try Natural Gift with other berries. That is, if Coffret actually liked the taste of said berries..
"Alright, everyone!"
he called out to his other Pokemon. "We're done here, who's ready to take on Butch?!"
The five Pokémon roared together, earning a few glares from other trainers.
"That's what I like to hear!"
he yelled back. "Let's goooooo!"
"Swabluuuuuuu!"
Coffret sang at the top of his lungs.
Benedict snorted. With some new strategies up his sleeve, he was ready for action. He returned everyone to their Poke Balls, then headed back upstairs. Kidd brushed Scorpio's scales, while Tank and Victoria tossed a volleyball back and forth.
"How'd the training go?"
Kidd asked as he plucked a stray scale off Scorpio's back.
"Pretty good," Benedict explained. "Makoto an' Frieza are doin' awesome, but Coffret wouldn't train without eatin' something'"
Kidd chuckled and looked back down at Scorpio, "Maybe it's a sign Coffret's evolving soon?"
"No way," Tank shook his head. "Some Pokémon have bigger appetites than others!"
The Pokémon Center door opened. Butch walked through the door, heading towards the counter. He handed an armful of Poké Balls to Nurse Shizue, watching as she set them on the healing machine.
"Tough battle today?" she asked as she adjusted her gold and blue Arbok-print scrunchie.
"A little bit" Butch explained. "This kid thought he'd be smart and pull out a Shedinja, but little did he know? I taught Cornelius Night Slash, and the rest of his team went down without a fight."
Benedict listened intently, making a mental note. Cornelius huh? Pretty fancy name for a Normal type. Perhaps that was his Vigoroth…He'd have to use Jojo for that round!
"Well it sounds like you had a fun battle" Shizue smiled as she handed him his Poke Balls. "But when was the last time you gave someone a badge?"
Butch shrugged. "It's….been a while. But I'm hoping real soon. I've been looking for a challenge, so…"
"Maybe today'll be that day!"
Butch and Shizue turned around. Benedict waved to both of them.
"Oh, hey Benedict" Butch waved back. "So, how's Petalburg been treating you?"
"Pretty well," Benedict explained. "The guys an' I went to that coffee shop this mornin', an' I've been trainin' hard. In fact, I meant to ask….can we battle again today?"
Butch checked his schedule. Only one other animal challenged him today, probably out of intimidation from watching yesterday's match.
"That's fine by me" Butch nodded. "Haven't had a proper challenger lately anyhow."
"Great to hear that, Butch!" Benedict perked up. "I'm hopin' we can put up a good fight!"
"Then let's do this" Butch said as he gathered up his Ultra Balls. "Lake B-52, five o clock, oh and-"
He smiled. "Bring your little friends. I'll get mine as well."
"Wait a sec" Benedict tilted his head. "Lake B-52?"
"Well, yes?" Butch popped his collar.
"I saw your Gyarados, and figured I'd be a little nice. A Pokemon like her would be fun to battle against in her element!"
"Got it," Benedict nodded. "I'll see ya there at five!"
"See you at five," Butch said before heading outside.
Lake B-52 was just as serene in the afternoon as it was at night. A group of Marill frolicked nearby, waving hello to a swarm of Masquerain. The sunlight glimmers along the water, reflecting brightly to all to see.
Benedict walked to one side of the beach, while Butch went to the other. Both trainers smiled at each other, with fiery determination. The ground rumbled underneath them. Okay, that was odd.
A whirring machine quaked from the core of Lake B-52. Black net darted around the surface, digging into the ground and flying into the air, ripping the lake clean. Dozens of Corphish were trapped in the net, trying to free themselves from the black fabric. Unfortunately, the net's fabric was thick enough to tolerate the frantic clawing.
Four Crawdaunt crawled on top, hissing and screeching at their attacker. A pastel pearl sticker was plastered on the machine, shining in the afternoon sky.
"Oh, not you guys again!"
Butch hollered, trembling in fury as he tightly gripped one of his Ultra Balls.
"Y'all dealt with 'em too?"
Benedict asked as he pulled out a Poké Ball.
The animal, a cyan horse in a gaudy purple leather catsuit, taunted from the top of his machine. Some of the animals covered their childrens' eyes. He pushed some blond hair away from his eye, revealing a sloppy cosmetic job. Even a Zubat could do better makeup than this glam rock reject!
"Great," he muttered. "It's the teenage dirtbag who got all mad over a gym battle."
Benedict facepalmed. At least it wasn't Raymond, but still, could this guy mind his own business?!
"I heard that!" Butch barked. "Stop insulting my challengers already!"
Ed rolled his eyes. Right, dogs have exceptional hearing, even a brutish Rottweiler like him. "This is none of your concern, Butch!" he yelled as he backflipped from the top of the net.
Butch snarled as he shook a fist, "Seriously, what's your business ruining my battle like this?!"
"Oh" Ed smirked. "Just trying to get into Pastel, that's all," he seethed, spittle flying from his long face. "I don't see why you care so much, Butchy boy."
"I care because you're a sore loser, that's what!" Butch lunged towards Ed, pinning him down and using his claws to slash him across the face.
Ed tried to kick Butch off, but the dog's shorter height made him a pain to throw him off. He yanked Butch by the tail and threw him off.
Benedict looked back to the crown, then to Butch, "What's goin' on?!"
Butch landed on his feet, wiping some grime off his face before spitting a mouthful of blood "Ed's mad he lost a match several months ago, and instead of asking for a rematch like normal league challengers, he decided that being an ecoterrorist is the best way to handle it."
"That's not true at all, you mutt!" Ed screamed. "You never gave me a real chance to battle, so I'm proving it here!"
Butch seethed. He snorted from his nostrils, trembling as he saw red. "What….what the hell did you just CALL ME?!" he screamed before grabbing another Ultra Ball.
"What?" Ed scoffed "All I said was that I'm joining Pastel. Why do you care so much? It's not like we killed Fortree City's Gym Leader."
The air went cold. Tank sunk down in his spot, nausea overflowing through his entire body. Kidd held a hoof out, staying still as Tank grabbed his wrist with an iron grip.
Butch took a deep breath in. "Benedict," he barked. "Get a Pokémon out, NOW!"
Benedict jolted up. Clearly, something set him off, so it was best not to get on his bad side. "Yes sir!" he yelled before tossing a Poké Ball up. "Jojo, come on out!"
Jojo flew out of his Poké Ball, cawing as he glared at the stallion. Seeing those poor Corphish trapped in a net? It disgusted him. These Pokemon had a right to their home!
"Compton! NOW!" Butch howled as he slammed an Ultra Ball against the ground.
A Loudred stomped against the ground, flexing his arms as he howled at the other trainer.
Ed scoffed, "Really? THIS is what I'm dealing with? Jule is not gonna be happy with this..." He held a Poke Ball out, releasing his Pokémon.
A large blue seal Pokémon popped out, its thick body slamming against the B-52 beach.
"SeaLEOOOOOOOO" it bellowed, slapping its flippers on the thick sand.
Butch gritted his teeth and barked, "Compton, use Low Kick!"
"Lou-DRED!" Compton swung his left leg across the air, kicking Sealeo's side and throwing it across the battlefield.
Sealeo rolled across the ground, dirt and twigs collecting in its fur. The seal Pokémon slapped the ground twice, baring small fangs. Despite the kick, it was raring to fight.
"Sealeo, use Blizzard!" Ed commanded.
Benedict gulped. He jumped in front of Butch, guarding him from the attack. "Block it, Jojo!"
"Com-BUSKEN!" Jojo had no choice. The Blizzard was going to freeze everyone alive!
He jumped in front of the crowd, blocking them from the attackers. A blast of cold air spewed through the air, pastel blue and white crystals forming by the second.
Jojo stood his ground. Small red flames flickered off his body, forming a tornado around his ankles. All eyes were on him– the crowd, the other Pokemon, even his trainer and the ones who cared about him.
"Com….comBUSKEN!"
He cawed, his body glowing red and yellow. Orange flames surrounded him, engulfing his entire silhouette.
The ice crystals dissolved into drops of water, splashing against the sand.
Ed gasped, "What in the–"
As the flames burned brighter, Jojo's silhouette changed. He grew twice in height, while his head crest split into two and grew longer. His arms slimmed down, while his legs grew thicker. Two antennae protruded from his forehead, and his claws grew sharper.
The fire burst into small flickers, revealing a stronger and more powerful Jojo. He placed a hand on his bicep and flexed, cawing at the top of his lungs
"Blazi-KEN!" screaming as he showed off his muscles. Flickers of red and yellow flames spewed from his wrists.
"Jojo!"
Benedict cried out, wiping a single tear from his right eye "Look at you!"
Jojo turned around, closing his eyes and nodding at his trainer. With a burning determination in his heart, he was ready to save the day. For him, his trainer, his friends. It was time to show this absolute unit what he was made of! He grabbed Benedict by the waist, hoisting him over his shoulders. Benedict gulped as he wrapped his hands around Jojo's feathers, making sure not to fall off. His long hair billowed in the evening wind, as he felt revolution in his heart. Nobody was going to hurt the ones he cared about!
"Blaze Kick!" Benedict shouted as he pointed at the machine.
Jojo took a step backwards, posing like a martial artist. Crimson red and lemon yellow flames swirled around his right leg, growing stronger with the billowing wind.
"BlazIKEN!" Jojo cawed as he jumped up and swung his leg across the air, slicing across the top of the net.
With a sharp swing, the cables snapped into thin fibers, cascading through the air as they were lit ablaze. Dozens of Corphish floated downwards, waving their claws and tails to slow themselves down. A pair of crustacean Pokémon closed their eyes and held each other's claws, hoping for an easy fall.
Several voices caught the duo's attention.
"Libra! Use Telekinesis on the Corphish!"
Multiple Corphish stopped in the air, their bodies absorbed by a bright purple energy. The weight of gravity slowed down, letting them float to the lake like tissue paper instead of barreling down like shooting stars.
"Shiitake! Use Mach Punch on the lake!"
Thick ripples billowed through Lake B-52, with fluffy green spores floating on top of the surface. Multiple Corphish crashed against the spores, yawning as they fell into a peaceful sleep. Two of the Crawdaunt swam over to check on their children, making sure they were safe.
"Zaitochi! Ice Punch to rip apart the net!"
Zaitochi barreled through the skies, punching the machine in its core. Mechanical shards blasted in the air, freezing in their spots. The net turned into a crystalline sculpture, then shattered as Zaitochi kicked the machine again. Ice crystals floated downwards, dissolving into glittering snowflakes.
Benedict and Jojo gasped as they descended to the ground, watching as all the Corphish family made it to safety. Jojo nimbly landed on his feet, squatting down to let Benedict climb off. The fire-type Pokémon stood tall, ruffling his trainer's hair with one hand.
"Jojo!" Benedict laughed at his Pokémon, blushing from the surprise affection.
But their celebration would be cut short.
Ed growled as he returned Sealeo to its ball, then walked up to the other trainers.
"Don't think you got off easy because your Pokémon evolved" he scoffed at Benedict, then sneered at Butch. "I'll be back" he said before running away from the lake, disappearing in sight.
"That was…." Butch commented, shaking his head in dispproval.. "Bizarre. Seriously, there's no way that Pastel would take that guy in."
"Y'all are tellin' me" Benedict said. "Alright, you ready?"
"Of course" Butch nodded. Finally, a chance to take on a fun challenger!
Both trainers stood at different ends of the beach, tossing their Poke Balls up and down. A small wave of water ebbed at the beach, moving at a glacier's pace.
Ike stood on a large rock, holding out two yellow flags.
"Today's match is between Butch Reid of Petalburg City, and Benedict Sussex of Castelia City! Only the challenger will be permitted to use substitutions!"
Butch stayed silent. Since when did the league require this rule?! Oh, that's right, the battle from yesterday was filmed and posted online. Damn Pokémon league!
"Now," Ike crossed his arms above his head, the fabric flapping behind him.
"May the challengers bring out their Pokémon!"
"Asuka!" Benedict held a Poke Ball out to the lake. "Come on out!"
"Gyaoooooooo!" Asuka howled as she wagged her tail, pleased with the cool temperature of the water.
Butch barked as he released his first Pokémon "Maverick! Ride into the danger zone!"
"Li-NOONE!" Maverick yipped as he clawed the air, raring to go. He looked up and shuddered. The other Pokémon death glared at him, dropping his confidence like an anvil.
Benedict yelled, "Asuka, use Taunt!"
"Gyara!" Asuka roared. She formed a small red and white tornado above the water's surface, using her tail to throw the taunt into Maverick's face.
Maverick grinded his teeth, frustrated by the cloud that was in his face. Why did it smell like raspberries?! How in the world can a Gyarados smell like that?! Why was the sun so bright in his eyes!
"Belly Drum, Maverick!" Butch commanded.
Maverick turned around and hissed at his trainer. This was no time for hamboning!
Butch sighed. This wasn't the first time he dealt with Taunt, but certainly the first with Maverick! "Ride into the danger zone and use Extreme Speed!"
"Li-noone!" Maverick sprinted across the ground, darting upwards to tornado into air.
Benedict snapped his fingers as he pointed ahead, "Asuka, Aqua Tail!"
"Gyara!"
Asuka pulled her tail out of the water, throwing a wave of water into Maverick's face. The wave's force threw him onto the beach, drenching his fur from head to toe.
Maverick shook the water off, growling as he readied his next attack.
"Extreme Speed again!" Butch barked back.
"LinOONE!" Maverick barked, this time diving underwater so Asuka couldn't see him. Or so he thought…
"Asuka!" Benedict pointed ahead. "Dive underwater and Bite on his tail!"
"Gyao!" Asuka dunked her head underwater, darting back and forth in her spot. Once she saw Maverick, she threw her head forward and clamped down on his tail. The normal type kicked and squirmed in his spot, but was still pinned by mighty jaws.
The serpentine Pokemon emerged from the water, then flung Maverick through the air.
"Linoone….." Maverick groaned as he crashed against the ground, leaving a heavy dent in the sand.
Ike counted to three. "Maverick the Linoone is unable to battle!"
"Way to go, Asuka!" Benedict hooted and hollered.
"Gyaooooooo!"
Asuka howled at the top of her lungs, scaring a pack of Taillow inside the trees.
"Are y'all ready to take a break?" he called out.
"Gyara!" Asuka nodded twice. She flashed a toothy grin to her trainer, staying still as he sent her back to her Poke Ball.
Benedict looked at his Poké Balls. Who would be up next….
"Po!" Butch barked as he held out another Ultra Ball. "Let's do this!" A Spinda leaped out, teetering in his spot like a child stepping off a roller coaster. His ears wobbled in sync, one of them flopping into his face.
Benedict threw another Poke Ball. "Kenshiro! Show 'im what you're made of!"
"Lai-RON!" Kenshiro barked as he stood in front of his trainer, clawing at the ground.
"Kenshiro, use Stealth Rock!" Benedict took a step backwards before shouting.
Butch's eyes went dark as he commanded, "Po, Retaliate!"
"Spin-da!"
Po bounced across the battlefield, stopping to pull his arm back and slap Kenshiro in the face. Even though the attack wasn't effective, Kenshiro rolled to the right and crashed against a large brown boulder. The stone crumbled into dust underneath his back.
Benedict winced slightly from the sound of breaking rocks, shaking his head clear before getting back into battle. "Kenshiro, Rock Slide!"
"LaiRONNNN!" Kenshiro growled as he summoned a dozen boulders from the earth, soil and roots flinging around as the boulders crashed in front of his opponent.
Po stumbled around, trying to climb onto a rock but slipped and fell onto his back. "Inda..." he murmured, getting back up on his feet.
Butch wiped some sweat off his forehead, pulling a trick up his sleeve. "Po, use Assist!"
"Spinda-spin!"
Po chirped, dancing in his spot as he swatted the air. He performed a merry jig before thick purple goop oozed from his right arm. He pirouetted between the boulders, spinning on one foot. Po lassoed his arm around and whacked Kenshiro on the head, the ooze splattering off his body and into the ground.
Benedict snorted in laughter. Out of all the moves Butch's Pokémon knew...
He shook his head clear before getting fired up. "Kenshiro, Iron Head!"
"Lairon!" Kenshiro pulled his shoulders back, drumming his front legs against the ground. He headbutted Po in the torso, roaring as the panda Pokemon spun in a circle and slammed against a stray bounder.
"Spiiinnnnn..." Po groaned as he passed out against the boulder, his back pressed against the cool surface.
Ike snapped his fingers and held out a flag. "Po the Spinda is unable to battle!"
Butch stayed silent as he returned Po to safety.
"Hm, guess Assist wasn't so….assisting" he chortled to himself. Was a gym battle the best time for a dad joke? Oh of course it was!
"Lairon, lai!" Kenshiro roared to his trainer, drumming his front paws against the earth.
"Oh, did ya wanna take a break?!" Benedict called out.
"Lai-ron" Kenshiro nodded twice.
"Got it!" Benedict yelled as he returned Kenshiro to his Poké Ball. He thought quickly; dealing with Maverick was easy, but he had no idea what tricks Butch had up his sleeve. Zaitochi was a gamble, but was he up next?
"Compton!" Butch posed as he held out another Poke Ball. "Stand by!"
"Lou-DREEEEEED!" Compton screamed as he flexed his biceps, flashing his pearly white teeth. He winced as several floating rocks pelted his back.
Those fangs….a Pokémon that could dodge his jaws would be perfect, AND light enough to take little from Low Kick!
"Coffret!" Benedict shouted as he lassoed his wing, tossing his next Poké Ball into the air. "Heads up!"
"Swa-swa-BLU!" Coffret sang as he hovered in the air.
"Compton," Butch pointed ahead. "Bite his antennae!"
"Loud!"
Compton sprinted across the sand, jumping above a leftover boulder and clamping his jaws down on Swablu's right wing. The thick taste of cotton balls pressed against the roof of his mouth
"Blu blu BLU!" Coffret screamed as he tried to fly out of Compton's grasp.
"Coffret!" Benedict shouted. "Peck his nose!"
"Swa-BLU!" Coffret plucked several feathers off his right wing, then used Peck to jab Compton's nose. In the middle of his pecking flurry, he blew his stray feathers into Compton's nostrils.
"Loud-RED!" Compton yelped as he stumbled backwards. The cottony assault itched against his nose, forcing him into a flurry of sneezing. Several audience members snickered.
Benedict grabbed a Leppa Berry from his hoodie pocket.
"Now!" he shouted as he flung it into the air. "Coffret! Natural Gift!"
"Swa-bluuu!" Coffret torpedoed upwards, grabbing the berry's leaf and swallowing it in one bite. A maroon and orange aura surrounded his entire body, with the taste of chili powder flooding his body.
The cotton bird Pokémon dived like a missile, tackling Compton and hurling him back several feet.
Compton backflipped before landing on top of a tree stump, wiping some dirt off his face with his elbow.
Coffret flew back to his trainer, the aura dissolved from his body and clumps of dirt hanging off his wings.
"Compton!" Butch commanded. "Shock Wave!"
"Loudred, LOUD!"
Yellow waves of electricity formed around Compton's ears, vibrating in their spot as Compton repeatedly punched the air. The golden sparks pulsated through the air, forming a blinding blue beam that blasted pure electricity into Coffret's face.
"BLUUUU!" Coffret screamed as his entire body flared up, like he guzzled three energy drinks in a row. In mere seconds, he ran out of energy and fell to the ground with a small thud. "Swab…."
Ike twirled a flag around,
"Coffret the Swablu is unable to battle!"
Benedict looked away as he returned Coffret to his Poké Ball. He looked down,
"Sorry little guy. You'll do better next time!"
Butch and Compton nodded and smiled at each other. One down, five more to go!
Benedict threw another Poke Ball, this time tossing it like a pitcher for the Vermillion Starmies. "Frieza! Now! Zap to the extreme!"
"Maaaa-NECTRIC!" Frieza howled as he landed on top of the sand, yellow electricity pulsing through his veins.
Butch placed a paw to his chin. He battled several trainers whose Manectric utilized Lightning Rod as a strategy, so Shock Wave was out of the question. "Compton, use Stomp!"
"LOUDRED, LOUD!"
Compton roared as he cartwheeled across the ground, leaping up with one foot in front of him.
"Frieza!" Benedict commanded. "Flamethrower an' aim for his mouth!"
"Maneeeeee…..TRIIIIIIIIIIIC!"
Frieza howled as the top of his lungs, his tail glowing orange as he spewed a stream of red and blue fire into Compton's mouth, throwing the normal type into the air. The fire flickered into wispy smoke, dissolving as Compton barreled towards the ground.
With a heavy thud, dust and twigs joined the smoke, revealing that Compton fell on his back and was unable to get up.
"Dred…."
"Compton the Loudred is unable to battle!" Ike announced to the crowd.
Butch tisked to himself as he returned Compton. Even in the open field, he felt like a heel wrestler thrown into the corner, and it was his time to launch back! "Zatoichi!" he yelled. "Slice your way to victory!"
"Zan-GOOSE!" Zatoichi snapped as he shadow boxed the air, trying to slap away the tornado of boulders. The boulders slammed against his side, tossing him back and forth like a rag doll until they shattered into tiny pebbles.
"Wanna keep it up?" Benedict hollered.
"Netric!" Frieza barked twice and shook his head yes, pawing at the ground.
"Alright!" Benedict cheered as he jumped in the air.
The sun set behind him, making him feel more at ease than usual.
"Use Dig!" Butch pointed at the ground.
"Zan-GOOSE!" Zaitochi hopped above the largest rock, clawing at the air before leaping off like a skydiver.
"Volt Switch!" Benedict yelled as he held out another Poke Ball.
"NeTRIC!" Frieza formed a glowing blue and yellow ball of electricity, then headbutted it across the battlefield. The ball exploded in Zaitochi's face, knocking him back onto the rock's surface.
Zaitochi shook the dust away from his face, then looked around. Where'd Frieza go?!
Benedict smirked as he held up Frieza's Poké Ball. White stars shot from the surface. He jumped into the air and tossed the Poké Ball in his right hand, "Makoto! Show 'em whatcha got!"
"Garde!" Makoto posed like a shoujo protagonist, his posture nimble with delicate balance.
Butch took a step backward and yelled,"Poison Jab, Zaitochi!"
"Zan-zan!" Zaitochi hissed as he frontflipped from the rock, watery purple sludge splattering from the tips of his claws.
Benedict tensed up as he remembered the last time Zaitochi pulled a fast one on his team. Stay calm, stay calm...hey, yeah! "Dodge and use Calm Mind!"
"Garde!" Makoto twirled to the right, a bright magenta aura glowing from his eyes. He took a deep breath in, intently focusing on the opponent's next move.
"Dig!" Butch yelled at the top of his lungs.
"ZanGOOSE!" Zaitochi twisted his body and dived into the ground, spinning like a drill as he bore through the surface. Leaves, pebbles and sediment exploded from the earth and into the setting skies.
Benedict grinned as he yelled, "Chase him out with Magical Leaf!"
"Voir!" Makoto floated onto one of the rocks, holding his arms out as he blasted a tornado of iridescent leaves into the depthness of sand. Zaitochi blasted out of the crater, like an earthy volcano erupting after centuries of peace.
The sun sunk into the horizon, warm skies fading into serene shades of midnight blue and royal purple. A cream yellow orb flickered in the sky, joined by twinkling white stars.
Benedict looked into Makoto's eyes, then screamed at the top of his lungs. "In the name of the Hoenn region...Makoto, USE MOONBLAST!"
"Garrrrrr..."
Makoto's entire body glowed white. Blinding blue and pastel pink lightning surrounded his arms, forming a growing ball of pure cosmic energy. His green hair and white skirt flapped behind him, billowing withthe cool moonrise sky.
"De..."
Makoto lifted the cosmic ball above his head. Pink and blue lightning trailed up his arms, lighting up the darkening skies.
"VVVVVOOOOOOOIIIIIIIRRRRRRR!"
As he released an ear-piercing scream, pure lunar energy blasted into Zaitochi's body, throwing him into the brisk air.
Zatoichi squeaked as he shot through the air. He accepted defeat in his heart, closing his eyes and smiling as he nosedived into coarse beige sand. A cloud of pastel dust exploded around him, letting him consume defeat.
"Zatoichi the Zangoose is unable to battle!" Ike announced.
Butch gulped before holding out his Ultra Ball. This kid knew what he was doing!
"Garde-VOIR!" Makoto sang to his trainer, spinning like a noble prince before stopping on both feet. He clapped his hands, delighted at his victory.
"Another kickass job!" Benedict cheered for his Pokemon, holding out his Poké Ball. "Hey, Makoto! Ready to relax?"
"Garde-voir~!" Makoto held an arm out and bowed, closing his eyes as he returned to his Poké Ball.
Butch took a deep breath in and smiled. Months had passed since a gym challenger sent him to his final Pokémon, the thrill pulsing through his body. But he wouldn't lose YET!
"Cornelius!" he howled from the bottom his lungs as he held out his Ultra Ball. "Show him what you're made of!"
A brown ape Pokémon landed on the sand, swaying back and forth as he stood on his back feet. His bulky arms dangled in front of him, curled into tight fists. The ground quaked underneath his feet. He winced as small rocks dug into his skin.
Benedict twirled as he tossed another Poké Ball in the air. "Jojo!" he commanded. "You got this, buddy!"
"Blazi-KEN!" Jojo cawed as he crossed his arms in confidence, looking at his opponent. The thrill of evolving still rushed through him, but it wouldn't be all that he needed.
Butch snapped his fingers, "Cornelius! Giga Impact!"
"Sla-KING!" Cornelius roared as he beat his chest twice, then ran across the sand. Pink and yellow energy surrounded his body as he picked up speed.
"Use Low Sweep!" Benedict threw his arm back and pointed ahead.
"Blaziken!" Jojo spun to the right, carefully dodging Cornelius's attack. He swung back his right leg, effortlessly sweeping the other Pokemon off his feet.
"King!" Cornelius roared as he fell off his feet, flailing his legs before falling onto all fours. He panted heavily as he stood in his spot, trying to recover from the kick.
Butch facepalmed. Yeah, perhaps he should save Cornelius for double battles and grab a Pokémon with Skill Swap. Po could learn the move, but he'd have to find the right trainer who knew what they were doing with teaching new moves... He shook it off, thinking about how to save this battle, until–
The faint sound of finger snapping caught his attention.
"Jojo!" Benedict hollered, his hair flowing behind his shoulders. "Blaze Kick!"
"Bla-ZIKEN!" Jojo roared as he boxed the air, sparks of fire flying off his wrists. He twirled in his spot, balanced on one foot, pulled his right leg back and push kicked Cornelius in the torso.
The ape Pokémon flew backwards, crash landing against a tree. He stood back up, running back to stand in front of his trainer. The rocks in his skin, falling off his feet, and burning against his chest were too much to handle.
Cornelius stumbled like a businessman waltzing out of the bar at two in the morning. He grunted before falling flat on his face, a mushroom cloud of dust flying up in the air.
Ike counted to three as Cornelius refused to move an inch.
"Aaaaaand Cornelius the Slaking is unable to battle! The winner is Jojo the Blaziken! And with no Pokémon on the leader's side, the winner is Benedict Sussex of Castelia City!"
Several animals roared in applause, some of them tossing confetti in the air. Others stopped filming, raring to post the battle online. Tank and Kidd jumped up and cheered, throwing their arms over each others' shoulders.
Butch walked up to his Pokemon and gently patted him on the shoulder, "You did great, Cornelius." he assured him before returning him to his Ultra Ball.
"Blazi-ken!" Jojo cawed as he ran up to his trainer. With his newfound strength, he lifted Benedict up in a hug, the two of them twirling in their spot.
Butch walked up to the duo, with a calm smile across his face. He held his palm out, showing a small grey badge shaped like a dumbbell. The metallic surface sparkled under the moonlight.
Benedict hopped down from his Pokémon's grip, grinning as he took the badge for himself.
"Thank you!" he chirped, gently placing the badge in his case.
"Hey it's no problem, kiddo" Butch said as he placed a paw on his own chest. "And it was an honor to battle you. I hope you can keep it up for Celia."
Celia, huh? He wondered to himself what she was like. Her name didn't tell what species she was, but that was probably for the better. The delicate name made him think of a lighter type like fairy or psychic, but flying was also a possibility…Of course, maybe she used another type! Either way, Benedict's heart raced as he shook his head to clear his mind. Several strands of flowing hair flew into his eyes.
"I sure will, Butch!" Benedict said as he high fived him. "So, what are y'all doin' afterwards?"
"Let's see... play with my daughter, eat a good dinner with my wife, maybe get drinks with the guys," Butch said as he listed off his plans. "The night's young, and I can do anything I want. What about you?"
"I was gonna go to that convention in Mauville," Benedict explained. "I heard a lot 'bout it an' figured it'd be fun to-"
"Hey! Benedict!"
Benedict turned around, more strands of his hair flipping into his face. Kidd and Tank ran up to him, their faces lit up in joy.
Tank bounced on the tips of his toes, "I don't know HOW you did it, but that battle was amazing! I mean, it was so kickass how Jojo caught Cornelius off guard!"
"Aw, thanks Tank!" Benedict smiled as he looked back up at Jojo. It blew his mind how much leagues changed him from an impulsive brat and his happy-go-lucky Torchic, to a proud duo of trainer and Pokémon.
Kidd stayed silent, before coughing. "Um, Benedict?"
"Yeah?" Benedict asked, before gasping in surprise.
Kidd stepped forward and grabbed one of Benedict's wrists, placing his other hoof on his waist. He closed his eyes and leaned forward.
Benedict grabbed onto Kidd's scarf, gripping tightly as he closed his eyes and raised up one of his feet. The silk fabric was nice to the touch, along with the aftertaste of spearmint and coffee. A light wind rustled their hair, with a stray leaf getting caught in Benedict's hair.
Kidd pulled away first, chuckling as he looked into his dark eyes. He moved a strand of hair away from Benedict's face, looking back at him. "Worth it" he said.
"Heh, yeah," Benedict laughed as he looked away, his heartbeat pacing like a marathon.
Tank cheered and high fived both of them, pumping a fist to himself afterwards as he felt the same sparks in his heart.
Butch nodded and slowly clapped three times. Those two reminded him of him and his wife, even after several years and a little girl to take care of.
Several hours later...
The boys relaxed in their suite. While Tank grabbed a quick shower, Benedict dangled a zucchini fry in front of Coffret.
"Come on, it's just a fry!" he begged. "They're your favorite, right?"
"Swab." Coffret turned his beak up. This fry wasn't curly enough, and its gross green color looked unappealing compared to the lovely golden color of a delectable potato. And why was the salt pink?!
Kidd chuckled, "I think Coffret has good taste. Zucchini's rather overrated."
"Hey, it's not as bad as kale!" Benedict said before stuffing a few zucchini fries into his mouth. "And besides, Makoto liked 'em when I fed 'im!"
Tank stood in the doorway, wearing a towel around his waist. Drops of water fell to the floor, his hair still limp from the hot water.
"Benedict, did you save some fries for me?" he asked.
"Nah, Coffret ate 'em all," Benedict snarked. He yelped as Coffret swatted him with his wing "Hey!"
"So, Tank," Kidd asked. "About earlier today, just before the gym battle...what happened in Fortree City?"
Tank's heart panged. He blinked twice before looking away, "I…I, Kidd I don't want to talk about it yet"
Kidd gulped. Guess some things are better to ask about when the time's right...
An hour passed before the boys got comfortable in bed, slowly falling asleep to the sound of the humming air conditioner.