As I observed the unfolding events in Laverre City, a mix of emotions churned within me. I couldn't help but notice the somber mood that hung over Ash, Pikachu, Riley, and Gary. It was evident that something was amiss, something weighing heavily on their hearts. It troubled me to see my friends carrying such burdens, and yet, I felt a sense of helplessness as the adults of our group kept their secrets closely guarded.
Meanwhile, the city buzzed with excitement as Serena shared the news about Gym Leader Valerie, who was not only renowned for her battling skills but also for her talents as a fashion designer. The unfortunate timing meant that the Gym was closed for a fashion show, leaving aspiring challengers like me and Sawyer, my new rival and friend, disappointed. It was disheartening to realize that there would be no battles to be found in the immediate future.
Sawyer, on the other hand, seemed to be in awe of Ash, idolizing him as the "Saint" and the future Champion of the Orange Archipelago. His enthusiastic fanboying filled the air with a mix of admiration and amusement. I understood that Ash's incredible journey and unwavering spirit had touched the hearts of many, including Sawyer.
As Serena and Bonnie got recruited to join the fashion show as substitute models, I couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between their excitement and the reserved demeanor of the others. It was as if they were trying to shield us, the younger ones, from the weight of their worries and the secrets they held. But I still tried to be happy for them. An excitement I did not need to fake when the realization that Valerie would choose a challenger from the audience at the end of the fashion show was revealed.
I was disappointed when it was Sawyer the one chosen, but I still cheered for my new rival as it was his turn to step into the spotlight. It's not like the fashion show was useless to me, I got to see Bonnie dressed in a kimono! She looked so cute! So, I watched as his Bagon faced off against Valerie's Spritzee, with a smile on my face. Though deep down I knew that the outcome was inevitable. The power gap between their pokemon was vast, not to mention the type disadvantage, but Sawyer's appreciation for the experience shone through. He eagerly took notes, determined to learn from this encounter and improve for future battles.
In the midst of the fanfare and excitement, I couldn't shake off the feeling that there was something deeper, something significant happening behind the scenes. It left me with a sense of unease, a desire to understand the reasons behind the concealed worries and the heavy atmosphere that enveloped our group. But for now, all I could do was observe, support my friends in their endeavors, and trust that the truth would eventually come to light.
I went to sleep that night with a heavy heart, but woke up with a smile on my face. Today I was going to have my gym battle, not only that! I was meeting with Sawyer!
As we sat down to have breakfast and patiently awaited the opening of the gym, Sawyer and I struck up a conversation. It didn't take long for us to find common ground and become fast friends. The topic of our dreams naturally emerged, and we both shared our aspirations of winning the Lumiose Conference. Sawyer's admiration caught me off guard, as he mentioned having seen me compete in the Vertress Conference. His words were sincere, and he expressed his admiration for both me and my Gallade. I felt a mix of surprise and warmth fill my chest, a feeling I wasn't accustomed to experiencing. It was usually Ash who received the lion's share of admiration and attention.
"Wow, thanks, Sawyer!" I beamed. "I didn't expect you to know about my battles in the Vertress Conference. It means a lot to hear that you admire my Gallade and me. Ash usually gets all the attention, so it's a bit strange, but I'm really grateful."
Gallade nodded in agreement, seemingly appreciating the admiration from Treecko, who looked up to him with awe in his eyes. "Treecko, Tree!" The Grass-type exclaimed towards my partner, who blushed. I snickered when Gallade translated to me what Treecko meant, and I could only agree with the Grass-type. Gallade is amazing!
"Treecko seems to agree with you," I giggled.
"Well, you've shown incredible skill and determination in your battles, and it's something I truly admire," Sawyer continued. "Your Gallade's graceful moves and your strategic thinking have left a lasting impression on me. But don't think I won't give the best of me! We are both aiming for victory in the Lumiose Conference!"
Sawyer's enthusiasm was infectious, and it ignited a spark of excitement within me. I had found someone who recognized the efforts I put into my training and battles outside of my family and friends, and it was refreshing. It felt invigorating to have someone acknowledge the bond between me and Gallade, appreciating our unique style and strategies.
"You know, Sawyer, ever since I started traveling with Ash and the gang, I've always admired his unwavering spirit and ability to connect with pokemon," I shared. "He's a true inspiration. But to have someone like you recognize the efforts I've put into my own journey—it's a different kind of encouragement. It motivates me to keep pushing forward and honing my skills."
"I understand what you mean, Max. Ash is an incredible trainer, no doubt about it. But we each have our own path and our own strengths," Sawyer agreed. "I truly believe we can learn a lot from each other and grow together as trainers."
As we continued our conversation, I felt a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Sawyer's words resonated with me, reminding me that we all have our own unique journey and strengths. It was reassuring to know that I had someone by my side who appreciated my efforts and saw the potential within me. With renewed determination and a newfound friend by my side, I felt a surge of excitement for the battles ahead of us. With a bounce on my step, we made it to the Laverre City Gym. This time, I will be the one battling first, and I could barely contain my excitement.
As the Laverre City Gym Battle was about to commence, a mix of nervousness and excitement coursed through my veins. This was my chance to prove myself as a trainer and showcase the bond I shared with my pokemon.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have an exciting 2 vs 2 battle between Gym Leader Valerie and challenger Max Maple! Only the challenger can substitute pokemon. Let the battle begin!" The referee announced.
"Let's start with my lovely Spritzee! Show them your elegance and grace!" Valerie released her first pokemon.
"Alright, Pidgeotto, it's our time to shine! Ready to take on Spritzee?" I called out.
Pidgeotto chirped enthusiastically, ready for the battle. We locked eyes, sharing a silent understanding and determination. As the battle commenced, Spritzee gracefully took to the field, emanating an air of elegance and poise.
"Is that a pink Pidgeotto, tres bien!" Valerie clapped her hands excitedly. "But let's not get distracted, Spritzee, use Fairy Wind!"
"Pidgeotto, dodge the Fairy Wind and counter with Quick Attack!" I rapidly countered
Pidgeotto swiftly evaded the pink winds, utilizing his speed to close in on Spritzee in a flash. With a burst of energy, he slammed into Spritzee, inflicting damage.
"Impressive!" Valerie praised. "But not enough to take us down! Spritzee, retaliate with Draining Kiss!"
Spritzee's lips glowed as she unleashed a gentle kiss towards Pidgeotto, attempting to drain his energy. Pidgeotto valiantly fought back, refusing to be overwhelmed by the opponent's moves but was unable to get away completely.
"Pidgeotto, break free and use Wing Attack!" I ordered worriedly. Pidgeotto shook off the effects of the Draining Kiss, his determination shining through. Flapping his powerful wings, he launched himself towards Spritzee, striking her with a powerful Wing Attack. The battle intensified, both pokemon exchanging powerful blows. The energy in the air was palpable, and my heart raced with anticipation. Pidgeotto and Spritzee were evenly matched, neither giving an inch. "Pidgeotto, we've come so far together! We can do this!"
As Pidgeotto's form shimmered, I gasped. Our hearts united at that moment and my encouragement pushed him to the final steps to evolution. I understood Ash's words then, when you are united with your pokemon anything is possible. Pidgeotto underwent a remarkable transformation, he grew larger and more majestic, evolving into the magnificent Pidgeot mid-battle. The sight filled me with awe and pride, knowing that our journey had brought us to this moment.
"Oh, what a stunning evolution! Pidgeot, a worthy opponent indeed." Valerie praised, but I noticed from the glint in her eye that she was not going down easily.
"Pidgeot, let's finish this with Sky Attack!" I commanded, I needed to finish this now.
Pidgeot spread his wings wide, charging up a powerful Sky Attack. He soared high into the sky, gathering energy as he prepared to unleash a devastating blow.
"Spritzee, use Dazzling Gleam!" Valerie countered.
Spritzee released a dazzling burst of light, attempting to disrupt Pidgeot's Sky Attack. The two powerful moves collided, creating an explosion of light and energy. In the midst of the clash, both pokemon fought valiantly, pouring every ounce of their strength into the battle. The impact was fierce, and as the dust settled, it was revealed that both Pidgeot and Spritzee had been knocked out.
"It's a double knock-out! Both pokemon are unable to battle. What an incredible display of skill and determination from both trainers!" The referee announced. "Please release your next and last pokemon!"
"Magnificent, Max! Your Pidgeot fought admirably. It truly is a sight to behold." Valerie praised us, as she recalled her Spritzee.
"Thank you, Valerie!" I beamed, returning my pokemon. This round might have been a tie, but my Pidgeotto evolved into a Pidgeot and I was ecstatic. "Your Spritzee put up a great fight too. This battle has been an amazing experience."
"One that is not over yet!" Valerie reminded me with a smirk. "Sylveon you are up next!"
My eyes widened at the Fairy-type eeveelution. That is one strong Sylveon... though, not as strong as Ash's.
"Gallade you are up next!" I smirked as I released my partner.
As the second round of the battle began, my heart pounded with a mix of nerves and determination. This was the moment to prove our strength and secure the Fairy Badge. Valerie's Sylveon, radiating elegance and charm, stood opposite my steadfast Gallade.
"Sylveon, let's showcase our grace and power! Begin with a dazzling Moonblast!" Valerie began with a bang.
My eyes widened in surprise as I shouted my next command. "Gallade, stay focused! We've got this. Use Psycho Cut to intercept the Moonblast!"
Gallade's eyes gleamed with determination as he summoned his psychic energy. With a swift and precise motion, he launched his powerful Psycho Cut, slicing through the air toward the incoming Moonblast. The clash of energies created a mesmerizing spectacle.
"Impressive, Max," Valerie whistled. "Sylveon, follow up with Draining Kiss!"
Sylveon gracefully closed the distance, her eyes gleaming with determination. She released a tender kiss, aiming to drain Gallade's energy.
"Gallade, use Close Combat to break through the Draining Kiss!" Gallade swiftly reacted, channeling his fighting spirit. With a burst of power, he launched a flurry of devastating punches and kicks, breaking through the Draining Kiss and striking Sylveon with incredible force. The impact was intense, but we couldn't let up. The battle raged on, both pokemon giving their all, and the intensity in the air was electric. I could feel the bond between Gallade and me growing stronger with each passing moment. We fought with everything we had, knowing that victory was within reach. "Gallade, this is our moment! Finish it with a devastating Sacred Sword!"
Gallade leaped into action, his bladed arms glowing with an intense energy. With incredible speed and precision, it delivered a powerful Sacred Sword attack, striking Sylveon with a decisive blow. As the dust settled, it became clear that Gallade's strength and determination had prevailed. Sylveon stumbled, unable to battle any longer, and the referee declared us the victors. "Sylveon is unable to battle! Gallade has emerged victorious, securing the win for Max! Congratulations, Max, you've earned the Fairy Badge!"
"Well done, Max!" Valerie smiled, as she approached me, after recalling her Sylveon. "Your Gallade truly is a formidable pokemon. You've proven yourself as a skilled trainer."
"Thank you, Valerie!" I thanked her, as I accepted the Fairy Badge, which was honestly one of the prettiest badges I've seen. "Your Sylveon put up an incredible fight. This battle has been an amazing experience, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to showcase our skills. Gallade, you were amazing!"
Gallade nodded, a sense of fulfillment in his eyes. A surge of joy and pride filled my heart as I realized that we had achieved our goal. We had conquered the Laverre City Gym and earned the coveted Fairy Badge. I can't wait for what's next in our great adventure!
