Chapter 15: Taking A Break
June arrived at the Saffron City Pokémon Centre just minutes after leaving the Gym and she handed Ray, Victoria, Behemoth, Leonardo and Ace over to Nurse Joy. Paige was the only one who didn't need any treatment as she never got to battle so June was left with her for the time being. Nurse Joy took the injured Pokémon away to be treated and June sat down in the waiting room to give herself some time to recuperate and reflect on everything that had happened. It was her first time losing to a Gym Leader since her journey had started and June was sure she'd learned some very valuable lessons in the process: she wasn't invincible, being the Champion's daughter didn't mean she was going to win all the time and she would need some kind of strategy if she had any hope of defeating Sabrina. If only she could catch a Ghost or a Dark-type Pokémon! There was always Lavender Town where Gastly and Haunter were commonly found but their half-Poison typing left them still weak to Psychic types so it would still be a risky gambit. Kanto had no Dark-types to catch so that was out of the question. Maybe if her team could learn any Dark-type attacks other than Bite or Crunch, that would help…
But it wasn't just the loss to Sabrina that June had to think over. She took out her sketchbook and looked at the drawing of Giovanni she'd drawn last night. There he was again, glaring at her and grinning mockingly from the page of her sketchbook. He was still on her mind and it had caused her to have another panic attack back at the Gym. June was embarrassed that it had even happened at all. Panicking like that in front of a GYM LEADER of all people! She should've been better than that! She turned the page of her sketchbook and began to draw again. Thankfully the Pokémon Centre was mostly quiet with not a lot of people around so she could draw in peace. The quiet made her feel more relaxed in spite of her worries.
When she was done, June looked at her picture. This time she'd drawn herself with her face bathed in shadows and her back turned. The words "Am I not worthy?" were written directly under herself. June brushed away a tear as she observed the image. Being as easily scared as she was, she really had to ask if she was worthy of being a trainer. How could she grow and train her Pokémon to be the best they could be if she was going to get scared like so?
She put away her sketchbook and was about to leave to get some refreshments from the Pokémon Centre café until her Rotom Phone suddenly buzzed. June answered it. Despite her feelings, some of her sadness washed away in an instant as the faces of her parents and Ash appeared on the screen. They were just the people she wanted to see.
"Hi mum! Hi dad!" June said jovially, trying to sound cheerful, "And hi too Ash! How are you doing?"
"Not good I'm afraid." Ruby sighed, "We've still found no trace of Giovanni and none of the Rocket Grunts we've arrested in their hideout in Celadon can help us. They say that even they have no idea where Giovanni and any remaining grunts of his will be. I'm willing to bet he kept any secret hideouts he may have to himself so nobody could spill the beans."
"Either that or that helicopter he escaped in is where he'll be operating from and because of that, he'll always be on the move so he'll be harder to track down." Hop muttered, "But rest assured, we aren't going to give up."
"Yeah! Quitting won't stop Team Rocket for good!" Ash put in, "I always believed that a real trainer never gives up and I still believe that now! So you better believe we won't stop looking for him June. We'll catch him in the end!"
June couldn't help smiling at Ash's inspiring words. A real trainer never gives up…just the words she needed to hear!
"I know you will, all three of you. And thank you Ash, I really needed that speech." June said thankfully.
"Uh…you're welcome?" Ash asked in confusion.
"Pika?" Pikachu echoed Ash's confusion.
"What's the matter sweetheart? Why did you need to hear what Ash said?" Ruby asked worriedly.
June explained everything to the three from the nightmares about Giovanni to losing to Sabrina and having another panic attack after feeling she couldn't do anything at the end of the battle. Ruby and Hop were shocked to hear it had gotten that bad for their daughter. They wished they could be there in person to comfort her.
"I'm so sorry that I panicked again mum and dad. I really am trying to be braver and not to let stressful situations get to me but…I just don't know what happens to me at times. Anything gets as intense as this and I just have a meltdown!" June wailed, "My experience as Giovanni's captive really isn't helping my confidence any either."
"Oh bless you my sweet little girl…" Ruby said sadly, "I'm so sorry that your father and I couldn't be here right when you need us most."
"It's OK mum. Stopping the villain should take priority." June insisted.
"Maybe so, but we still wish we could be here now." Hop said solemnly, "Knowing you're having troubles is going to have us worrying for you the whole time."
"Please don't worry about me. I don't want to get in the way of your mission." June said kindly, "Besides, Ash's words about a real trainer never giving up as lifted me up a bit. I want to take his words to heart and never give up! Cause if I do, then I'll never get stronger or braver and I'll only stagnate in my progression as a trainer."
"I'm glad I could help! If what I've said will motivate you into getting stronger, than I'm happy I could provide that motivation." Ash said brightly.
"If anyone could inspire her to get back on her feet, it was you." Ruby said with a smile, "She has always looked up to you ever since she was pre-teen."
The Champion looked back to June.
"At the same time, your father and I would recommend you at least take a break for today." Ruby suggested, "Give your Pokémon time to rest, and yourself too for that matter, and just take it easy for now. Maybe taking a rest from all things related to battles for a day or two will do your mental state some good. Just unwind and relax for a while. I promise you you'll feel much better afterwards."
"You sure about that?" June asked, "Taking a break won't exactly boost my skills up any."
"No, but if you keep going as you are and getting yourself more stressed, you'll only make yourself feel worse and maybe even lost your passion for Pokémon." Hop murmured, "When your mother and I were trainers on a journey together, I got a little frustrated with how she'd always beat me over and over and then when I lost to Bede that one time, I kinda hit a slump. But taking some time off to myself and revaluating myself as a trainer and a person helped get me back on my feet and I felt much better afterwards, even if I still couldn't beat your mother."
"Even I've needed a break every now and again on my journey." Ash put in helpfully, "I've lost to Gym Leaders and felt bad about it but after taking some time off with my friends, I came back refreshed and re-motivated to battle again! I'll always be grateful to all the help my friends have given me on my travels…" he said thoughtfully.
June knew that Hop and Ash were right in the end. She would hate it if her journey stopped being fun and only caused her more anxiety so maybe a rest was just what she needed. Most of her Pokémon were being taken care of by Nurse Joy anyway so it wasn't like she could do more training for now. She would take some time off and try again another day.
"Thank you all so much for your advice." June said graciously, "Really, it means so much to me that you care for me so much like that."
"You're our daughter, our pride and joy and the brightest light in our lives. Of course we care for you!" Ruby said warmly, "We want what's best for our special little girl and if we think taking a break will make you feel better, we suggest you take one."
"Take as long as you need June. Trust us, a little break goes a long way." Hop said reassuringly.
"I'll do as you've said." June said, sounding much happier than before, "I'm sure I will feel a lot better after I've rested. Then maybe I'll be able to beat Sabrina and I won't have Giovanni plaguing my mind anymore!"
"That's the spirit June." Ruby said brightly, "You enjoy the rest of your day and I hope you have a relaxing break."
"I'll be sure to! A good, quiet trek in the nearby routes oughta chill me out a bit." June thought.
"Oh definitely." Hop agreed, "Oh, but you best stay where you are for now. I got a call from my friend earlier to say that your Aerodactyl's been revived from the Old Amber I got back in Pewter City. It's on its way to you so if you stay in the Pokémon Centre, you'll receive it."
"My Aerodactyl's coming?! That's awesome! Thanks for letting me know dad! I'll wait for it!" June cried excitedly.
"An Aerodactyl, huh?" Ash replied, "I still remember when an encounter with one caused my Charmeleon to evolve…"
Ruby nodded knowingly. Ash had told her that story during the times they'd met together. Hopefully this Aerodactyl wouldn't be carrying June around on a rampage like the one Ash had met!
"So there's something for your break. You can make a new friend with your Aerodactyl." Hop said with a wink.
"I sure can!" June agreed, "I hope it'll be really friendly."
"According to my friend, he is." Hop answered, "He tells me it's a male Aerodactyl and is pretty much a gentle giant. You'll be so happy when he arrives."
June could already imagine how well she and her new friend were going to get on once he got here.
"Thanks again for your call. You three have been very helpful and I'll do as you've suggested." June declared, "I love you mum and dad!"
"We love you too June." Ruby said kindly, "Stay safe and enjoy your break. We'll let you know if there's any updates on our search for Giovanni."
"See you later!" Ash cried cheerfully, "And remember, a real trainer never gives up!"
"Pika, pi!" Pikachu concurred.
"I won't! Goodbye for now." June said jovially.
She hung up and lay back in her chair with a warm feeling of contentment spreading through her body. A good talk with her parents never failed to lift her up again when she was down and Ash's inspiring words had her feeling ready to take on anything again, But of course, that could wait. She still had her break she needed while her Pokémon were recovering. And she had to wait for her new Aerodactyl to arrive. To pass the time, June decided to draw again. This picture ended up being much happier than before she drew herself and her Aerodactyl sharing a tender hug together. The Galarian girl always wondered what it would feel like to feel the huge wings of the Rock/Flying Pokémon around her like so. Now she'd get the chance to find out.
It took an hour for the deliveryman to arrive at the Pokémon Centre. He had a bunch of parcels with him for Nurse Joy and some other trainers waiting around. He held a small box in his hand.
"June Silverlock? Is there a June Silverlock here?" he asked.
"That's me!" June cried excitedly.
"Heh, that hair should've clued me in." the postman chuckled as he eyed June's silver and purple hair, "Got a Pokémon delivered all the way from Cinnabar Island for you."
He handed the box to June. June took it and sat back down to open it up as the postman handed out the rest of his deliveries. The box contained a single Pokéball. June was tempted to open it up and see her new partner but she thought a Pokémon Centre wouldn't be ideal for a huge flying type. Somewhere more open would be better.
"I'll go back into Route 8 and let him out there. He'll enjoy the wide open scenery and get a chance to really spread his wings." June said thoughtfully.
She left the Pokémon Centre with her new Pokémon in tow. As she left the centre, Sakaki watched her leave with a dark smile on his face. He wasn't sure where she was going now but with any luck, she would be going somewhere isolated and with no witnesses around. It'd make stealing her Master Ball easier if nobody saw him do it. Making sure to fall behind so as to avoid looking suspicious but close enough so he wouldn't lose her, he followed the Galarian girl out of Saffron City.
Here's hoping I get my chance this time. The boss is already impatiently demanding results and I'd hate to keep him waiting any longer… he thought.
Minutes later, June was out of the bustling and busy Saffron City and into the quiet woods of Route 8. It felt good to be out of the city at last and to just enjoy a bit of fresh air, quiet and beautiful nature for now. Route 8 connected Saffron City to Lavender Town, a place June swore she'd never visit as the thought of visiting a town that was home to a Pokémon graveyard scared her too much to even consider going there. She'd stay on Route 8 and venture no further.
As soon as she found a good spot to set up camp, she put up her tent and lay out the sleeping bag. Later on she'd set up a campfire ready for dinner. Then she looked down at the new Pokéball in her hands. To think only a few days ago, Hop had bought an Old Amber from Pewter City and shipped it off so it could be used to bring an Aerodactyl back to life for her. She'd almost forgotten about it in all the time she'd spent doing other things then so it was a pleasant surprise she now had the Fossil Pokémon in her hands.
"With you on the team, I won't need to walk or cycle anywhere anymore. I can ride on you and fly everywhere instead!" June said excitedly, "Let's say hi my new friend!"
She threw the Pokéball and brought out her newest Pokémon. Aerodactyl were Rock/Flying Pokémon that bore a strong resemblance to wyverns. They had grey scales, wings for arms, an arrow-tipped tail and a large square jaw. They were large Pokémon, easily able to carry a trainer of any age on their backs through the sky and were incredibly fast fliers. The Aerodactyl looked around curiously for the moment. Unusual for the species, this one had a gentle, curious expression on his face. Aerodactyl were usually quite fierce by nature but not this one. It looked to June, seeming curious to see a new human before him. He'd only seen the science staff at Cinnabar Lab but this girl was new to him. And she clearly was no scientist from the way she dressed. He lowered his head and gave June a sniff. Air blew from his nostrils, nearly taking June's hat off in the process.
"Aha, ha, ha! Steady on, that tickles!" she giggled.
"Friend?" the Aerodactyl asked curiously.
"Yes my mate, I'm your new friend." June said kindly, "My name is June Silverlock and I'm your new trainer. I hope the scientists at Cinnabar Labs took good care of you. How are you feeling? Are you well?"
She reached up and patted the Aerodactyl on the nose. The Aerodactyl grinned dopily as he felt June's gentle touch on his face. Then to June's amazement, the huge Pokémon wrapped its wings around her and embraced her warmly. It was just like her drawing, but now it was happening for real!
"Friend!" the Aerodactyl cheered.
"Y-yes mate! I'm your friend! But can you let me go please? You're hugging me a bit too tightly…" June said with a slight strain in her voice.
The Aerodactyl let her go and bowed down apologetically. June stroked his head softly.
"Don't be sorry, you just…don't know your own strength, that's all." she said sympathetically, "While we're together, I promise you we'll be the best of friends and I'll train you well to be an incredible fighter! What do you say?"
"Fun!" the Aerodactyl said jovially, raising his wings and skipping from one foot to the other merrily.
"Gosh, you're a big bundle of joy, aren't you?" June laughed, "We're going to have a great time together! Now then, I should give you a name…"
She pondered for a moment. What name would suit a prehistoric Pokémon like this one? She mulled over a few options before settling on a name.
"I've got it! How about I call you Divebomb?" the teen girl suggested, "It suits a Flying type like you. Do you like it?"
"Divebomb! I like it!" the Aerodactyl cried happily, "I'm Divebomb!"
"Then Divebomb it is!" June said brightly, "Welcome to the team my new friend. I can't wait to introduce you to the rest of my Pokémon once they're all healed up."
She knew that as with all trainers, she could only carry six Pokémon with her so she'd have to rotate her team from now on. She thought keeping five Pokémon consistently and switching out the last slot would do for now. Once she started catching the last few Pokémon she planned to add to her team, she'd have to do this more and more with the team so everyone got a chance to train. For now, she only had Divebomb and Paige with her.
"If you're OK with it Divebomb, please can you take me for a ride?" June asked softly, "I'd love for you to fly me up into the sky. It'll be lots of fun, I'm sure!"
"Ride…fun. Fun ride!" Divebomb said merrily, "Climb on!"
He lowered himself so June could climb onto his back. June hoped on board and held on to either side of his neck. Divebomb spread his wings out and with one mighty flap, he took off and up into the air. June held on tight as he left the ground. Already this was taking her back to fun times at home in Galar when Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire and Hop would let their Flying Pokémon take her for rides. Hop's Corviknight had been one of her favourites to ride on due to how smooth and steady it was and how comfortable its metal body was to sit on. Divebomb, being half Rock-type, did feel a little rough but June didn't care about that. She was riding on the back of her own Flying-type Pokémon and was going to enjoy every second of it! Sakaki watched her and Divebomb fly up and cursed in annoyance. How could he possibly catch her now she was in the air?!
"One of these days, I should get my own Flying-type Pokémon." he muttered.
Up in the sky, June gaped as she saw the world of Kanto spread out beneath her and Divebomb like a giant carpet decorated with trees, fields and distant buildings. She could make out Saffron City very clearly as she hadn't set up camp too far away. The mostly yellow city seemed to gleam in the sunlight. It was moments like this that made it easy for June to understand why anyone wanted to be a Pokémon trainer. Who could say no to a life like this when it gave you such awesome experiences like right now?
"OK Divebomb, fly anywhere you want and don't be afraid to go fast!" June told her new friend, "Let's make this fun!"
"Fun ride!" Divebomb hollered.
And for the next hour or two, that was what June and Divebomb had. It had been the Aerodactyl's first time actually exploring the world outside of Cinnabar Islands so he was having as much fun as June was. He raced through the skies with every mighty beat of his wings and the world became a mess of colours swarming by below him. June held on tight to his neck and let out a scream of joy that was almost snatched away by the wind. For the first time since the Silph Co. incident, she was happy and enjoying herself! At this moment, all her worries were forgotten. Her defeat to Sabrina, Giovanni, Team Rocket, all swept away as her joy and excitement took over. This was a fond reminder on what being a Pokémon trainer was about…having fun. Pokémon battles, training with Pokémon and playing with them was what made being a trainer so enjoyable and in this moment, she having the time of her life. Divebomb could sense his trainer's joy so he kept going even faster to make it more fun. He even performed a few aerial tricks and manoeuvres to excite his trainer. June nearly fell off a couple of times and had to cling on tighter to her friend but the smile never left her face the whole time.
They soared over Saffron City and circled around it back towards Route 8. Then with directions from June, Divebomb flew towards Vermillion City and circled around it. Some people down below could see the two and they gesticulated excitedly. An Aerodactyl was an extremely rare sight to see just flying through the air like that. They flew past Lavender Town at one point, and at June's instance quickly moved on, and then they flew by Cerulean City. As they passed over, June looked down and saw Misty walking by. She'd been to the PokéMart to get some supplies for her Gym. Divebomb flew down lower and June waved to the Gym Leader. Misty looked up and gasped with awe as June and Divebomb flew past her.
"Hi Misty!" June called to her in the brief second the two were able to make eye contact.
"Wow, it's June!" Misty exclaimed as Divebomb carried on his fight, "And she's got an Aerodactyl now! How incredible!"
She waved to the two as they left Cerulean City behind. Divebomb rose back up into the sky and headed back towards Route 8. June thought now would be a good time to end the ride and then she and Divebomb could settle down after so much excitement. But things took an interesting turn for the duo as they neared back June's campsite. As they came into land, June saw two figures walking through Route 8 together. She wasn't sure who they were at first but as Divebomb got closer to the ground, her eyes widened with glee for she could now see they were familiar faces to her. Trace and Tricia were back! They'd clearly finished catching up with their mother and were now making their way to Saffron City. Trace would be wanting to earn his Marsh Badge too. Divebomb touched down on the ground and let out a loud gasp of relief as he was now able to rest his wings. June jumped off her Aerodactyl's back and ran up to Trace and Tricia. The two were staring incredulously at her.
"Hi Trace! Hi Tricia!" she said jovially, "How are you two? Did things go well with your mum?"
"Whoa, where did you get that Aerodactyl?!" Tricia exclaimed, "You didn't have that last time we saw you!"
"I think I remember." Trace put in, "Her dad got an Old Amber when we were in Pewter City and he shipped it off to be made into an Aerodactyl for her. Looks like it finally got to you!"
"Oh yes! He just arrived today while I was at the Pokémon Centre!" June explained, "And the timing couldn't have been more perfect if you ask me. He's given me quite a thrill ride!"
"I think we noticed." Tricia joked, "Your windswept hair would've told us if we hadn't seen you coming in to land."
June giggled as she took off her cap to straighten her hair and ponytail out. Divebomb approached Trace and Tricia and sniffed at them curiously.
"Friends?" he asked.
"Yes Divebomb, they're very good friends of mine." June answered, "This is Trace and this is Tricia." she introduced.
"Friends!" Divebomb hollered, wrapping his wings around the siblings and hugging them tightly.
"Gah! A bit overly affectionate, isn't he?!" Tricia croaked.
"And a bit heavy handed too!" Trace exclaimed, "Watch yourself, you're crushing us!"
Divebomb let them go and bowed down sheepishly.
"Sorry, I should've warned you beforehand." June said meekly, "He did the same to me after all. Anyway, how did things go with your mum? Was she happy to see you two again and get her Kangaskhan back?"
"Oh I wish you could've been there to watch." Tricia sighed, "The moment we gave her that Kangaskhan back, it was like all her grief had just…vanished like an Abra using Teleport! We could hardly stop crying for several minutes for how happy we all were. I'm so glad she held on as long as she did as her grief certainly would've killed her in the end."
"It really feels like we saved her life." Trace added, "If only dad could come back too and it would've been even better…"
"I'm sure he's happy looking down knowing his wife and children are OK." June said kindly.
"That's what we like to think too." Tricia said softly, smiling at the pleasant thought, "So how's things been with you? Aside from getting your Aerodactyl of course. I'm also surprised to see a lack of Ray on you. Where is he?"
June filled the siblings in on everything that had happened today.
"Bummer…I'm so sorry to hear you lost." Trace said sympathetically.
"It's OK. Sabrina was just a little too tough for me is all." June replied, "I'll try again after I've had my break. Maybe while we have dinner together, we can discuss battle strategies."
"It'll be helpful for me too since I'm hoping to battle her." Trace agreed, "Also I'd like to show you a new Pokémon I got on the way here."
"Awesome! Let's get set up!" June said eagerly.
She, Trace and Tricia joined up to set up camp for the siblings and to prepare making tonight's dinner. Sakaki was still watching them and he was not happy with what he was seeing. His eyes narrowed with hatred at the sight of Tricia.
"Hmm…this'll only complicate matters." he growled, "That treacherous girl will be the perfect protection for June. Even I'm no match for that Mega Gyarados of her's…"
He would have to wait for another opportunity to present itself or at least try to lure June away from Tricia. Once she was away, he'd have no problems stealing from her. But what could he do? He wasn't sure for now, but he'd figure something out…
Later on, the three teens were enjoying a scrumptious meal of sausage curry and naan bread. June had insisted on giving her friend a taste of Galarian curry while they were together. As dinner cooked, Trace also showed June his new Pokémon. He and Tricia had flown by Lavender Town earlier on Tricia's Gyarados and he'd ended up finding a Cubone as they passed by. Cubone were Ground-type Pokémon with a reptilian appearance and a skull mask they wore over their faces. They carried a bone club in their hands they would use as a weapon. This Cubone was an orphan and it had been in Lavender Town because it sensed the spirit of its lost mother. Trace had decided to catch it and make it part of his team to lift its spirits up.
"I hope I can mend this little one's heart." Trace said warmly as he patted Cubone on the head.
"A sweet guy like you will be just the trainer Cubone needs." June agreed, "I bet you two will make one fine team together."
"Same to you and that Aerodactyl." Tricia added, "I can tell Divebomb's going to be a powerhouse for you."
"Aerodactyl are strong and fast Pokémon, hence why I wanted one for the team in the first place." June said brightly, "It also helps they look so cool as well. And with what a big lovable sweetheart Divebomb is, we're going to be such great friends the two of us!"
She hugged her Pokémon's head tenderly. Divebomb beamed with pleasure.
"Great friends…" he sighed contently.
Trace and Tricia giggled. It was unusual to see a big, intimidating Pokémon like this be such a big softie. They still knew that in battle, he would likely be one powerful force of nature.
The next day came and June woke up feeling completely refreshed and like her troubles were finally gone. She even managed to sleep without a single nightmare about Giovanni. She was ready to get back into the game and have her rematch against Sabrina. It seemed she wasn't the only one for she saw that Trace had already left. Tricia informed her that he woke up early so he could have a shot at claiming his Marsh Badge. June decided to catch up with him later, for she needed to train her Pokémon and see if they were still up to the task first. She rang the Pokémon Centre for any updates on the five Pokémon she'd left there yesterday. Nurse Joy informed her that they were just undergoing some last minute tests to see if they were fit to fight again and they would be ready for pick-up soon. So June decided to focus on Paige and Divebomb for now. She scanned Divebomb with the Pokédex app on her phone to see what he could do. To her surprise, he knew some good attacks already with the all-powerful Stone Edge being one move he could use. He also knew Wing Attack, Crunch and Iron Head. Those were good moves for an Aerodactyl that hadn't been alive for very long!
"Gosh, did those scientists have a lucky break when they cloned you to life or did they teach you those moves before they sent you to me?" June gasped.
"Not taught. I knew already." Divebomb replied.
"That is amazing!" Tricia exclaimed, "But can he use those attacks well? They maybe strong attacks, but that's nothing if he hasn't got the strength to make use of them."
"We'll soon find out." June said eagerly, "Divebomb, show us all your moves!"
The Rock/Flying Pokémon flew up into the air and started off be demonstrating his Stone Edge. June and Tricia took cover so he wouldn't hit them by accident. Divebomb flapped his wings and a hail of sharp stones rained onto the ground. Each stone punched a hole through the grass and dirt, making it look almost as if a bunch of Diglett had been digging around and left the holes behind. The teens peeked down the holes. The stones had buried themselves deep down. That told them straight away Divebomb's Stone Edge was nothing to sneeze it. Any Pokémon on the receiving end of that was in for a lot of pain! Divebomb then used Wing Attack and successfully felled a tree with one swipe of his wing. Then he used Iron Head on a nearby rock and reduced it to rubble and finally he used Crunch and managed to bit some of the broken stones in half. June grinned excitedly. Sabrina was in for a surprise with this Pokémon! But strong attacks weren't everything. She still needed to test them in battle.
"Can you battle me Tricia?" June asked, "You and your Gyarados will be great sparring partners."
"Sure thing sweetie." Tricia said happily, "At least for once, we can have a friendly contest without me trying to rob you like last time!"
June giggled in agreement. For once, she and Tricia could battle on friendlier terms than before when she'd been part of Team Rocket. She wondered what Ray would've thought if he was here.
Divebomb and Gyarados faced each other and prepared to battle. Naturally, Divebomb wanted to make friends with Gyarados but June gently assured him they could do that after the battle. The battle began and Divebomb surprised both trainers when he scored the first hit with Stone Edge. Gyarados had tried to dodge the attack but Divebomb had been so quick in execution that the stones were still able to graze past the sea serpent. Gyarados struck back with Liquidation and hit Divebomb. Divebomb reeled back and shook off the water. Despite the super-effective hit, he didn't seem too badly hurt and was already back into action with Wing Attack. Gyarados blocked with its tail and bit down on Divebomb's other wing with Crunch. Yelling in pain, Divebomb bit back with his own Crunch. For a moment, both Pokémon had hold of each other with black teeth-shaped energy constructs and they refused to let go. In the end, Gyarados broke the stalemate by tail-whipping Divebomb. The prehistoric Pokémon shot back with Iron Head but Gyarados used Protect to block the attack. Then Gyarados blasted Divebomb with Hyper Beam and brought him down to the ground. He got back up but June stopped the fight.
"I think we've seen enough." she said quickly, "And I'd rather not have you too banged up before the Gym battle. It's clear you're already quite strong but you'll need some more training to make you as skilled as you are strong."
"Strong…skilled…good fighter!" Divebomb said optimistically.
"You have the potential for it." Tricia agreed, "Is that it for now June?"
"No. I want Paige to go up next." June explained as she sprayed Divebomb with a Hyper Potion to heal him up, "I'm hoping to teach her any moves that can cover her Psychic weakness."
"Did you consider evolving Paige into an Annihilape?" Tricia asked.
June was taken aback by the question.
"Uh…no. I thought that only happened in Paldea." she said in confusion.
"Nah, that's a common misconception." Tricia informed, "ANY Primeape in ANY region can evolve into one. People just think it's Paldea exclusive because the species was more commonly seen over there. But Paige is just as capable of evolving into Annihilape as any other Primeape. If we can evolve her, you'll have one heck of a powerful Ghost-type to battle with!"
June was amazed she hadn't thought of that herself! An Annihilape was going to be the answer to her problems with Sabrina! As a Fighting/Ghost type, Paige would have a type-advantage over her Pokémon and have a Fighting chance against her Psychic types! It would still be a risky gambit since Paige would still have a weakness to Psychic types but as an Annihilape, she was still going to be in a better position than she was now.
"OK then, let's try it!" June cried eagerly.
"Not so fast honey." Tricia said quickly, "Paige can't evolve into an Annihilape unless she learns Rage Fist first. Then she needs to use the move twenty times in order to trigger the evolution. Does she know Rage Fist?"
"Oh…n-no she doesn't." June said meekly, blushing with embarrassment over nearly rushing in half-cocked like so.
"Then we'll have to try and teach her to do it." Tricia declared, "Hopefully our next battle will help with that. And I think Fighting-to-Fighting will do nicely!"
She returned Gyarados to its Pokéball and threw out another. June was surprised to see it wasn't Magneton but instead another Pokémon she'd never seen her use before. Tricia had sent out a Machamp. She recognized it instantly for Sapphire had one herself. She'd always been fascinated watching Matilda in action and pummelling her opponents with her four arms. This was going to be an interesting match! June brought out Paige and the battle began.
"Paige, use Brick Break!" June yelled.
"Machamp, use Cross Chop!" Tricia called out.
Both Fighting-types lunged at each other with their powerful limbs and clashed together. June winced as Paige's arm came into contact with Machamp's. Even for Fighting-type Pokémon, that must've been painful! And yet they barely seemed to notice and just carried on like nothing had happened. Paige and Machamp threw several punches at one another and parried each other's moves, both Pokémon moving with great speed and blocking the attacks with pinpoint accuracy. To the girls, it was like watching a martial arts movie but with Pokémon. Machamp tried to kick Paige with Low Sweep but the fighting monkey jumped up and dodged the kick to her legs. She retaliated with Brick Break and hit Machamp on the top of its head. Machamp was momentarily dazed but it shook off the pain and fought back with Thunder Punch. June suspected that Tricia taught it that move to cover Flying-types. Paige was thrown backwards and left a little stunned by the electrified punch but she refused to give up. She jumped back into the fray and used Leer to lower Machamp's defences to soften it up for her next attack. Paige lashed out with another Brick Break but Machamp caught her wrist and threw her straight upwards. As Paige came down, Machamp used Cross Chop to wallop her with two hands at once and threw her down into the ground. Paige grunted on impact and strained to push herself back up.
Tricia noticed that Paige was looking frustrated with this. That was good. Hopefully if she got angry enough, she'd learn Rage Fist. Paige picked herself up and ran towards Machamp. Machamp tried to hit her with Thunder Punch again but she was a fraction too quick and managed to duck down to avoid it. Then she grabbed Machamp, picked it up and jumped into the air. Using Seismic Toss, she threw Machamp straight down into the ground. It had been a powerful blow but Machamp wasn't out yet. It rolled onto its stomach and pushed itself onto its feet with all four arms. Paige huffed irritably. Why couldn't her opponent go down?! The Primeape sprinted into action again and tried to use Brick Break on Machamp but it shimmied to the side and the moment her hand chopped down onto the ground, Machamp struck out with Poison Jab. The venomous attack left Paige with a sharp pain in her ribs and even worse pain coming over her as she was poisoned by the attack. That really seemed to get Paige mad for her fists were shaking angrily. She glowered at Machamp again.
"Ooooh, that does it! Your stubbornness and your poisoning me is really riling me up!" she ranted.
"Paige, please don't get mad! That won't help you!" June cried desperately.
But the Primeape was deaf to all reasoning. She just wanted to end this battle already. With her anger as high as it was, she ran towards Machamp and threw a terrific punch towards it. Curiously, this punch wasn't a regular punching move like what Primeapes could usually use. This one was a punch surrounded by a purple, ghostly glow. She hit Machamp in the stomach and caused it to double over in pain. June and Tricia gasped at what they saw.
"Tricia, is that-?"
"I think it is!" Tricia interrupted, "I think Paige just used Rage Fist! That's how you teach a Primeape to use that move. If it gets angry and frustrated enough, it'll focus that rage into its fist and thus, Rage Fist!"
"And I thought getting mad wouldn't help her." June chuckled, "Well in that case, Paige, keep using Rage Fist and don't stop!"
"Gladly!" Paige roared, sounding like an enraged Tauros.
Tricia knew what had to be done so instead of commanding Machamp to fight back, she ordered it to block the blows and just let Paige keep landing the punches. Machamp used all four arms to parry the punches as Paige threw them. The ghostly energy around her fist expanded with every punch she threw. It almost looked as if it was about to possess her if it carried on like this. Paige threw punch after punch after punch, growing increasingly annoyed that Machamp kept blocking the blows. Eventually, she threw twenty punches. Machamp blocked the twentieth punch…and that was when it happened. The ghostly energy surrounded Paige completely, forming a purple cloud around her. The Primeape gasped, only just now realizing what was happening. June leapt back in alarm and watched as the transformation began. Machamp stood respectfully back to let the process finish.
Seconds later, Paige emerged a new Pokémon from out of the ectoplasmic mist. She was now a mighty Annihilape! They were Fighting/Ghost type Pokémon that still heavily resembled Primeape but they had longer, wavier hair tipped with white, large wavy eyebrows, grey fur, red eyes, dark grey limbs and one broken cuff on one wrist with the other cuff gone completely. Paige beat her chest and roared with glee, loving the feel of her new body. She flexed her muscles, now stronger and bigger than before.
"Oh yes, I like this! I feel like I could crack a mountain in two with this body!" she boomed, her voice echoing as she spoke, "With ghostly powers at my side, I'll be unbeatable!"
"I wouldn't say unbeatable, but you sure will be amazing!" June said excitedly, "Congratulations Paige! You're an Annihilape now! And you look so cool!"
"This is the first time I've ever seen this happen in person…that was spectacular!" Tricia gasped in amazement, "Such a cool evolution…"
June and Paige hugged one another. Tricia returned Machamp to its Pokéball. Their job was done now so no need to carry on the fight. June patted Paige on the shoulder.
"You'll be my secret weapon against Sabrina Paige, and you'll be awesome out there!" the Galarian girl cried ecstatically, "And to think Sabrina foretold of your evolution yesterday!"
She still remembered Sabrina's words from after she left the Gym. "Even your Primeape will be a match for me…" Now June understood what she'd meant. She turned to Tricia and shook her hand.
"Thanks so much for the training. Without you, I'd never have evolved Paige into Annihilape!" she said graciously.
"I'm still amazed you didn't think of that already but I'm glad I could help." the purple haired teen said appreciatively, "It beats trying to steal from you, that's for sure. I know I'm enjoying being your friend more than your enemy right now."
She winked at June, making her blush in response.
"Oh y-y-yes! M-me too!" June stammered, "I a-always p-prefer to make f-friends than enemies."
"You're sweet, and that's what I love about you." Tricia said coyly, "Anyway, do you want to head on to Saffron City? We can catch up with Trace and fetch your Pokémon ready for the big Gym Battle."
"You go on ahead and catch up with Trace." June said, "I'll get my Pokémon and meet you at the Gym."
She returned Paige and Divebomb to their Pokéballs, packed away her campsite and headed back into the city with Tricia beside her. As they walked, June found herself tempted to maybe reach out and hold Tricia's hand but she stopped herself. No, don't make it awkward! She instead kept her hands to her sides and walked on as normal. Sakaki followed the girls. He would finally have his chance to get that Master Ball! He already had a plan on how he'd get June into his hands once she and Tricia separated…
The girls parted ways for now with June heading to the Pokémon Centre and Tricia heading for the Gym. June went into the centre and asked for her Pokémon. Nurse Joy smiled brightly as she handed them over.
"They're all fighting fit and back on their feet!" she said joyfully, "I do wish you luck in your Gym battle dear. Maybe you'll win this time."
"I'm sure of it!" June said confidently, "Especially as I've got some new tricks to catch Sabrina off-guard with…"
"Now these I've gotta see!" Ray said eagerly, "What's the plan June?"
"I'll tell you on the way." his trainer replied.
For her team, she decided to leave Ace in reserve and replace her with Divebomb. He would get a chance to show himself and another Pokémon with a Dark-type move would help her out. Come Celadon Gym, Ace would get her time to shine!
June pocketed her Pokéballs and left the Pokémon Centre. She turned to her left and walked up the street towards Saffron Gym. It would take her ten minutes to walk there. She chatted with Ray on the walk, filling him in on Divebomb being added to the team and Paige's new evolution. Ray was astonished with the news, as well as glad to hear Trace and Tricia were back so they could travel together again.
"I can't wait to see Divebomb and Paige in action!" he cried excitedly, "That Aerodactyl sure sounds strong and fast and Paige is gonna own the field in her new form!"
"I feel just as optimistic!" June said happily, "Unlike yesterday, I won't feel helpless and panic. I'll be strong and I'll win my Marsh Badge!"
"Geez, when did you get so fired up?" Ray chuckled.
"A little break and some motivational words from Ash Ketchum helped with that." June admitted, "And a little training with Tricia too. As is, I mustn't get too overconfident." she reminded herself, "Sabrina is strong after all. I could still lose so I need to brace myself for that possibility."
Ray nodded agreeably. He was about to say something else until a man stepped in June's path. June noticed him just in time and stopped herself before she could bump into him. She blinked several times in astonishment as she saw who the man was.
"Hang on a sec, I remember you!" she exclaimed, "I ran into you before my Gym Battle yesterday. And I nearly bumped into you again! Gosh, I'm so sorry about that. I don't make this a regular habit, I swear!"
"Oh no little lady, I should apologize." Sakaki said sheepishly, "I'm a clumsy little oaf sometimes. How remarkable that we should run into each other again."
"Yeah…remarkable." Ray said suspiciously.
He was sure that somehow, this meeting was NOT a coincidence.
"As is, can you help me?" Sakaki asked, sounding nervous, "I found a Pokémon in that alleyway and it's proving to be rather territorial. I'm worried if it's not dealt with, it might hurt someone."
"Oh no! We best help!" June offered.
"But what about Saffron Gym?" Ray asked.
"It can wait. The civilians need protecting!" June insisted, "If I'm going to be Champion of Kanto, I need to put the safety of others first."
She followed Sakaki's directions and headed into the alleyway. He ushered her in and June found herself face-to-face with an unexpected surprise. The Pokémon in question as the Psychic-type Hypno. It was a yellow-coloured Pokémon with a long nose, a white furry colour, pointy ears and narrow eyes. It had a silver pendulum in one hand. As soon as June saw the Hypno, it began to swing the pendulum. June watched it sway side-to-side. In an instant, she was captivated by it. She couldn't take her eyes away. Ray was equally as fixated on the pendulum. They were lost in its dance.
The next thing June knew, she was suddenly blinking awake and looking around in confusion.
"Huh? W-what? What am I doing here?" she asked, "I thought I was looking for Saffron Gym."
"We were but then…I dunno, I guess we blacked out for a second?" Ray asked, sounding equally as puzzled.
"I'm sure we had a job to do or something…wasn't there a Pokémon here a second a go?" June murmured, her mind in a muddle as she tried to make sense of what had happened.
"Maybe, but it's gone now so let's just go to Saffron Gym. Tricia and Trace will be waiting for us." Ray insisted.
"Of course." June agreed, "Now let's see, I think it was this way…"
She continued her trek towards Saffron Gym. Sakaki watched her and Ray leave with a dark smile on his face. His Hypno never let him down! He walked away and glanced down at the Master Ball he now held in his hand.
"This mission was child's play…" he purred.
Giovanni now had the means to capture Mewtwo with ease. Team Rocket would be back with a vengeance once they had it and it would be all thanks to this Master Ball…
Pokémon obtained: Divebomb the Aerodactyl
Pokémon evolved: Paige the Primeape, now Paige the Annihilape.
June's had a nice break and is feeling completely refreshed and ready to battle again. ^^ Too bad Sakaki had to spoil everything by stealing the Master Ball from right under her nose. Will she notice it's gone? And will she, Trace and Tricia catch up to him? Find out after June's had "A Rematch With Sabrina"...
Trivia: Sakaki stealing the Master Ball by hypnotizing June with his Hypno is a clear reference to Pokémon Horizons episode 14 where Spinel stole Liko's pendant by hypnotizing her with his Beeheeyem. He was originally going to do it last chapter but doing it too early just created plotting issues and I didn't want to make June suffer too much at the end of the last one so it worked out better for me to make him do it here instead.
And naturally, thanks to Scarlet and Violet, I had to make it so June gets an Annihilape in this story even if they don't exist in Let's Go Pikachu! This is a VERY LOOSE adaptation after all so naturally I can be flexible with this. XD Besides, Annihilape's existence just changes everything about the Pokémon world. Nothing about it suggests it's Paldea exclusive so therefore it's not unreasonable to imagine Kanto trainers being able to get an Annihilape too. ;)
As for Divebomb's personality, I don't really have much of a reason other than I thought an Aerodactyl being a jolly goofball would be funny. XD I have a feeling he's going to be one of my favourites among June's roster because of this. ^^
Also Trace finding a Cubone in Lavender Town is...well, you know already. As if I need to explain it. =P I imagine you might be disappointed that I'm essentially making the Cubone story happen off-screen but let's face it, would it really have mattered much to this story? It's not like anything's missing without it and I've had one of my readers complaining I've given too much focus to Trace and Tricia when it's meant to be June's story so the last thing I need to be doing is taking the focus away from June again so Cubone and Lavender Town had to happen off-screen I'm afraid.
Also, believe it or not, Divebomb's moveset is based on moves Aerodactyl can learn by levelling up. Yes, it actually learns moves like Iron Head via level up! Making Divebomb know Crunch also provides a convenient excuse for me to have June use another Dark-type attack against Sabrina next time.