Chapter 15
As we arrive in Hulbury, a noticeable commotion captures our attention. Upon closer inspection, we spot two women confronting a man and a boy. Among them stands Bede, our rival also undertaking the Gym Challenge, and Elena's mother, Relena, who serves as the principal of our school.
"Our sincerest apologies! The chairman is quite busy at the moment..." addresses the other woman, unfamiliar to us. "Everyone, please disperse! Please leave now!"
"Oleana... my Dad's assistant," Elena murmurs, recognizing the woman.
"Okay, see you later, Chairman!" As the crowd begins to disperse, we realize the man in the casual attire and sporting sunglasses is none other than Chairman Rose himself. Without his usual formal attire, he's almost unrecognizable amidst the commotion in the street. His presence here appears to be drawing considerable attention and stirring a curious buzz among the locals.
Chairman Rose attempts to appease the dispersing crowd, calling out, "No need to rush off! I can still do more autographs! I'll even give you my Pokemon League Card!" His enthusiasm echoes through the area, but Relena appears visibly exasperated by the fervor.
"Darling, I understand the importance of our supporters, but this seems excessive," Relena remarks, addressing Chairman Rose. "And Oleana, driving them away like that... isn't it a bit too severe?"
"Fans are very important, of course. That's why your husband needs to keep doing his work- for their sake," Oleana asserts firmly, emphasizing the significance of public support.
Meanwhile, Bede, our rival, steps forward, expressing his commitment, "And I'll promise to do everything in my power to assist you, too, Chairman." His statement underscores his dedication to support Chairman Rose's endeavors.
Chairman Rose's casual demeanor leads him to inquire, "Oh, and you were...?" with a hint of forgetfulness, prompting a small chuckle from our group as Bede reintroduces himself patiently, "Bede, sir."
"That's right! Bede! I daresay I'm impressed how far you've come since I gave you that Pokemon all those years ago, Bede." Rose remarks, reminiscing. "Will you be the one to win the Gym Challenge? Or perhaps it will be one of the trainers endorsed by the Champions."
"I'll prove your faith in me was well placed, Chairman. I won't lose to anyone." Bede asserts confidently. "Anyway, I'll be on my way now."
With his resolve affirmed, Bede bids his farewell, departing on his own path. Elena rushes forward, calling out, "Mama! Papa!"
Upon noticing us, Relena acknowledges Elena's unexpected arrival, saying, "Elena, what a delightful surprise. It's good to see Ash and Alice here as well."
"We were just discussing you all!" Rose interjects. "How have things been going for you?"
"We've been doing well, thank you for asking," I respond.
The Chairman, brimming with ideas, exclaims, "Ah! I've just had a brilliant idea, as tends to happen! You two will be challenging Gym Leader Nessa soon, won't you?"
Alice nods, affirming, "Yes, we're aiming for our second Gym Badge."
"Well then, if you manage to secure a Gym Badge from her, I'll host a celebration in your honor," Rose announces, surprising us all. It's quite unusual for the Chairman to extend an invitation for dinner, and his offer catches us off guard, eliciting a sense of pleasant astonishment.
As Oleana glances at the time, she remarks, "Chairman, we should really be going..."
Chairman Rose nods in agreement, urging us, "Please do your best, for the sake of Galar's future!"
As they depart together, Elena queries, "Mama, aren't you going with Papa?"
Relena explains, "Though I'm his wife, sometimes it's better to allow him to complete his work swiftly." Then, turning to us, she adds, "The Chairman will be heading to the seafood restaurant in this town. Secure the Gym Badge, and we'll join him there immediately."
"Understood," I acknowledge. Then, Relena remembers, "Oh, that reminds me! You two should have my League Card as well."
We graciously accept the League Card, tucking it away in our pockets before embarking on an exploration of the area, accompanied by the principal, eager to uncover more about the town and its surroundings.
Excited to explore Hulbury's renowned market area, we venture forth and discover an array of intriguing items such as Incenses, Herbs, and various other curious finds. Delving deeper into the market's offerings, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, taking in the bustling sights and sounds.
Following our exploratory stroll, we make our way to the Gym, eager to challenge the Gym Leader. However, our path is barred by the Gym staff, who regretfully inform us that the Gym Leader is absent from the premises.
"If you're seeking the Gym Leader, she's currently at the lighthouse," the staff member explains, providing us with crucial information about the whereabouts of the elusive Gym Leader. Intrigued by this unexpected turn, we swiftly redirect our steps toward the lighthouse, anticipating our encounter with the Gym Leader in this scenic coastal town.
Upon locating Nessa at the lighthouse, she greets us warmly, "You must be Ash and Alice, the gym challengers, right? You've become something of a hot topic among the Gym Leaders."
We respond with a nod, acknowledging her words. With a confident smile, Nessa hands each of us a League Card, stating, "Here you go, Mr. and Ms. Famous. I already heard about you, so you should learn about me, too." The League Card she presents bears the number 049, showcasing her identity and accomplishments.
After tucking away the League Cards, Nessa expresses her enthusiasm, declaring, "Let's head to the stadium. I love fishing, but I love Pokemon battles even more and I'm itching for a battle with you." With that, she departs, leading the way toward the stadium, ready for the impending showdown. Examining Nessa's League Card as we make our way towards the stadium, we uncover fascinating details about the Water-type Gym Leader.
Her father is a fisher, and her mother works in the marketplace. Perhaps because of her parents, she grew up playing with Water-type Pokémon and eventually made it all the way to being a Gym Leader. She met Sonia during their Gym Challenge, and they continue to be close friends. Nessa often gives Sonia fresh seafood from Hulbury. She has declared that Milo of Turffield is her rival, but Milo responded by saying that his rival is himself.
Entering the Gym, we're greeted by a staff member who enthusiastically begins the preparations for our Gym mission. "Hey there, Gym Challenger! Shall we start the process to get you ready for the Gym mission?" she asks.
"Absolutely," I reply.
"That's right! You'll have to change into this uniform. The changing room is located over there." she points out.
After changing into the attire provided, I examine the Water Uniform. It resembles a diving suit, showcasing vibrant orange, blue, and white hues with the Water Type emblem prominently displayed on the front. The swim trunks already bear the assigned number, completing the outfit.
"All right, you're in your uniform! Head on into the Gym mission! Ah, by the way, while you're on the Gym mission, you can't use your Pokemon Box Link." she reminds us.
Despite being aware of the rule, we step onto the Gym Mission field, prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead in this aquatic-themed trial. In the Gym Mission, the field is filled with an array of pipes emitting water in different directions, creating an intricate maze. Some of the waterfalls formed by these pipes obstruct our path, hindering our progress through the area.
Suddenly, Dan, a guide within the Gym, appears and explains the challenge ahead. "The Hulbury Pokemon Gym's mission is this! A challenging maze, and you must clear it if you want to clear the mission. However, some paths in the maze are blocked by water. What should you do then? Try pressing that red button over there, and I imagine you'll figure it out, future champ. Now let the Gym Mission begin!"
As we hasten toward the red button, our path is intercepted by Julia, the first Gym Trainer. She greets us, saying, "Welcome to Hulbury Stadium! Ready to bask in the beauty of Water-type moves?"
Julia initiates the battle by sending out a Tympole. I decide to swiftly counter it using Pikachu's Electric-type moves, taking advantage of its weaknesses. The battle proceeds in our favor, surprising Julia, who exclaims, "Huh? Tympole and I were the ones who got soaked?"
Pressing the initial button alters the flow of water from the red pipe, redirecting the waterfall and creating a new pathway leading us toward the yellow button. This action essentially triggers a swap between the buttons, necessitating a thoughtful approach in our decision-making.
As we approach the second Gym Trainer, Heather, she emphasizes the significance of considering the sequence of button presses. "Pressing a button halts the water flow... but it's crucial to contemplate the order too," she advises.
Heather engages in battle, deploying Krabby and Corphish, both capable of using Crabhammer. To counter, I opt for Yamper, utilizing its Nuzzle attack to paralyze the opponent's Pokemon before finishing them off with Spark. After the battle, Heather expresses uncertainty, admitting, "I wasn't sure about the right thing to do in that battle..."
Approaching the final obstacle before reaching the blue button, we encounter Lynn, the last Gym Trainer. Surprised by our progress, she exclaims, "What? You've made it this far? And you want to... battle me?"
Lynn challenges us with her Remoraid and Chewtle. To counter her Water-type Pokémon, I deploy Eldegoss, leveraging its Grass-type moves and employing spore attacks effectively. Through strategic tactics and Eldegoss's abilities, we manage to defeat both of Lynn's Pokémon.
Impressed by our strength and tactics, Lynn acknowledges our skills, remarking, "With that strength, it's no wonder you beat me and my Pokemon..."
Upon completing the challenging Gym Mission, we find ourselves standing on the expansive battlefield within the gym. Nessa, the Water-type Gym Leader, arrives, prepared to officiate the upcoming Gym Battle. "Welcome, honored Gym Challenger! I think you already realize, but I'm Nessa. Sorry to have made you look for me."
"It's alright," I reply. "Now we can finally engage in battle."
"I don't doubt my humble mission's difficulty... Yet you cleared it," Nessa observes. "Your mind as a Pokémon Trainer must be quite refined. No matter what kind of plan your refined mind may be plotting, my partner and I will be sure to sink it."
The battle is a three-on-three battle, it commences as Nessa sends out her Goldeen from a Dive Ball, while Applin, the Grass and Dragon-type Pokémon, steps onto the field at my command.
"Goldeen, start with Water Pulse!" Nessa commands her Pokémon. The attack strikes Applin, causing it to become confused. "Applin, Rollout!" I command, hoping to take advantage of the move's power.
However, Applin's confusion hinders its movements. Instead of executing the Rollout attack effectively, it begins spinning in circles due to the confusion, much to our dismay.
Nessa seizes the opportunity, ordering Goldeen to use Horn Attack. But the continuous spinning causes Goldeen to miss its target, surprising Nessa. After a brief period of confusion, Applin regains its composure.
"Great job! Use Astonish!" I shout, instructing Applin to startle Goldeen. The move successfully startles Goldeen, making it flinch and leaving it vulnerable. Taking advantage of the moment, Applin strikes with Rollout, hitting its target and defeating Goldeen.
As Nessa sends out her second Pokémon, an Arrokuda emerges onto the battlefield, ready to continue the Gym Battle. Despite our best efforts, Applin finds itself facing the swift and determined Water-type opponent.
"Applin, be ready! Use Astonish!" I command. However, before Applin can execute the move, Arrokuda swiftly lunges forward with a Bite attack, catching Applin off guard. The force of the attack overwhelms Applin, causing it to falter and ultimately succumb to Arrokuda's powerful Bite.
"Applin, return! You did great," I praise my Pokémon while recalling it back to its Poké Ball. "Pikachu! I choose you!"
As I summon Pikachu onto the battlefield to face Nessa's Arrokuda, the Water-type Pokémon launches an Aqua Jet, hurtling toward Pikachu with impressive speed. However, I remain composed, instructing Pikachu to counter with Quick Attack. Both Pokémon charge at each other, meeting in a swift and forceful collision that sends them both staggering backward.
Nessa calls for Arrokuda to use Liquidation, another Water-type move. Reacting swiftly, Pikachu retaliates with Iron Tail, deflecting the attack and pushing back against Arrokuda, surprising Nessa with Pikachu's agility and resilience.
"Use Thunderbolt, Pikachu!" I command as Pikachu channels its Electric-type power. A surge of electricity crackles around Pikachu as it releases the potent Thunderbolt attack, aiming directly at Arrokuda. The electrifying move proves to be decisive, overwhelming Arrokuda and securing victory for Pikachu in an impressive display of strength.
"Looks like I'm down to one last Pokémon. I've been saving the best for last!" Nessa declares confidently as she unveils her final Pokémon, a formidable Drednaw, evolved from Chewtle. Anticipating the challenge, I decide to recall Pikachu and send out Hawlucha to face this powerful opponent.
"Flood the stadium and make it our ocean! Drednaw, time to Gigantamax!" Nessa commands her Drednaw, initiating its Gigantamax transformation. The Pokémon grows immensely, its shell enveloping its head in an intimidating display of power.
"This is unexpected, but go for the High Jump Kick, Hawlucha!" I direct Hawlucha to strike, aiming to seize the advantage. However, Drednaw's incredible speed allows it to evade the attack, causing Hawlucha to crash down hard onto the ground.
"This is a little gift from us... I hope you can take it! G-Max Stonesurge!" Nessa declares as Drednaw unleashes its devastating G-Max Stonesurge attack. I attempt to maneuver Hawlucha to evade the powerful assault, but the strain from an old injury causes Hawlucha to falter, rendering it unable to dodge the incoming attack. The overwhelming force of G-Max Stonesurge overwhelms Hawlucha, resulting in its defeat in a single, devastating blow.
I withdraw Hawlucha and send out Pikachu, noticing the Stealth Rock damage from Drednaw's previous attack. Determined to turn the tides, I initiate Pikachu's Gigantamax form, increasing its size and power significantly. With a resolute expression, I command Pikachu to unleash its G-Max Volt Crash attack.
"G-Max Volt Crash, Pikachu!" I shout, and Pikachu charges forward with electrifying energy. Nessa swiftly responds, ordering Drednaw to use Max Guard, which lessens the damage inflicted by Pikachu's formidable attack. However, amidst the clash, Pikachu's G-Max Volt Crash manages to paralyze the colossal Drednaw.
Seizing the opportunity, I urge Pikachu to unleash the G-Max Volt Crash once more, determined to finish the battle. With a resounding roar, Pikachu dashes forward again, delivering a thunderous blow to the paralyzed Drednaw. The immense force propels the gigantic Drednaw backward, crashing against the arena wall. The audience gasps in surprise as the colossal Drednaw gradually shrinks down until it finally faints on the ground, signaling Pikachu's victory in an awe-inspiring and electrifying display.
After the intense battle, Nessa's expression softens with admiration. "I may proudly be the strongest member of this Gym, but I was totally washed away!" She admits, recalling her defeated Drednaw. "How...? How can this be?!"
Approaching her, we exchange understanding looks. "Now that I've battled you, I think I understand," she reflects. "Continue to seize victories in the Gym Challenge with your Pokémon. You have an incredible spirit that may even be strong enough to challenge the Champion. You and your Pokemon are indeed deserving of this Gym Badge."
We share a handshake, and she presents me with my second Gym Badge. "You'll want to challenge either the Fire Gym Leader or the Electric Gym Leaders next. As you and your Pokémon are now, either of them will definitely want to battle you." she advises, imparting guidance for our next steps in the Gym Challenge.
At the entrance, the staff congratulates, "Ash! My sincere congratulations for your victory over Gym Leader Nessa. Take this. It's a replica of Nessa's Uniform." We receive the Water Uniform that I just wore, and she says, "Now that you've won the Water Badge, I'll be watching to see just how far you and your Pokemon can go!"
As Alice steps forward for her challenge, I notice her surprise at the design of her uniform, a more revealing attire compared to mine. A bit bashful but determined, she enters the battle. To my amazement, Alice skillfully handles her Gym challenge, emerging victorious by using Eldegoss to defeat her opponent, Drednaw in the end, and now we both have the second badges.
Here is a new chapter, and we're done with the Water Gym. I hope you like it and the next chapter will be the gathering with Chairman Rose.
Ash and Alice's Pokemon:
Venusaur, Charizard x2, Blastoise, Butterfree x2 (One Pink), Pikachu, Meowth x2 (Kantonian, Galarian), Machamp, Farfetch'd (Galarian), Gengar, Kingler, Lapras, Eevee, Snorlax, Meganium, Typhlosion (Hisuian), Espeon, Mantine, Sceptile, Linoone (Galarian), Gardevoir (Shiny), Milotic, Absol, Infernape, Lucario, Abomasnow, Gallade, Samurott, Audino, Garbodor, Zoroark, Greninja, Meowstic x2, Aegislash, Hawlucha, Decidueye, Lycanroc (Dusk), Mimikyu (Shiny), Melmetal, Raboot, Drizzile, Skwovet, Corvisquire, Dottler, Thievul, Eldegoss, Wooloo, Chewtle, Yamper, Carkol, Applin x2, Arrokuda, Toxel x2, Sizzlipede, Milcery x9, Kleavor