Chapter 9

We find ourselves still in the plaza, mulling over our options. Serena, always inquisitive, raises a question, "I wonder... if we get a badge for each conquest on the map, then does that mean we will be having 18 badges in the end?"

Drandon contemplates the idea, adding, "That would also be quite shocking. We usually get 8 badges only. But I'm also curious to see how it will go as well."

I chime in with a plan, "Anyway, let's do the gym first and then the Titan next. I mean, we can still have distance learning if we want to."

Lucine, ever the voice of reason, offers a suggestion, "Then let's head west first. Cortondo Gym is the closest one and it is a Bug Type Gym."

We all agree with the plan, and without further ado, we mount our Koraidon and Miraidon companions. Drandon and Golly ride with me, while Lucine and Luke accompany Serena. Together, we set off through the West Gate and venture into Southern Province Area 2. Even though Nemona calls us for advice, I confidently inform her that we've already made our decision, and we continue our journey forward.

As we arrive in South Province Area Two, we notice some peculiar crystal-like formations on the road. I recognize them and comment, "So this is the Tera Crystal, similar to the Dynamax Dens?"

Golly, ever knowledgeable, explains the difference, "Unlike Dynamax Dens, once you defeat a Pokémon in it, it will disappear. They're obviously popping out in a lot of places."

Curiosity gets the better of us, and we decide to enter the Tera Crystal. Inside, we encounter a Pokémon that I've never seen before. Luke identifies it, saying, "We've got a Bug Type Pokémon: A Nymble!"

Just like in Dynamax battles, the four of us—myself, Serena, Lucine, and Drandon—prepare to face off against the Nymble. It's an unusual sight with a punching glove on its head, making me assume that it's a Fighting Type after terastalization. Serena terastalizes her Sylveon into a Fairy Type, a heart with small wings on its head, and we engage in the battle. After a hard-fought effort, we manage to defeat the Nymble and successfully capture it.

Nymble: The Grasshopper Pokemon: Bug Type. It's highly skilled at a fighting style in which it uses its jumping capabilities to dodge incoming attacks while also dealing damage to opponents.

After releasing our newly captured Nymble, we notice that it's a bit dirty. Golly suggests, "Since we're here, how about we try out the camping gear?"

Serena recalls, "Oh right, I think Camping is also a thing in Paldea as well."

Rather than making curries like Helen, we decide to prepare sandwiches this time. Serena and Lucine take on the task of sandwich-making, while Golly and I team up to give our Nymble a much-needed shower.

Luke's curiosity is piqued by a nearby basket, and he inquires, "What is this basket?"

Drandon muses, "I'm not sure. I wonder if Professor Jacq will tell us in one of the future classes." It seems like there's more to discover and learn about this region's unique features and activities.

After our delightful lunch, we continue our exploration and stumble upon a plateau. To our pleasant surprise, we encounter a group of small Pokémon wielding hammers. Lucine identifies them, saying, "That's Tinkatink."

Serena is instantly charmed, exclaiming, "She's so cute." We all agree that capturing these adorable Pokémon would be a great idea. With smiles on our faces, we set out to add Tinkatink to our growing team of companions in this new region.

Tinkatink: The Metalsmith Pokemon: Fairy and Steel Type. This Pokémon pounds iron scraps together to make a hammer. It will remake the hammer again and again until it's satisfied with the result.

As we continue our journey, we're taken aback when a group of energetic dogs zooms past us. I remark, "Another puppy Pokémon? We already had a Fidough..."

Golly, with his extensive knowledge, identifies the Pokémon, stating, "That is a Maschiff. This one is a Dark Type, and it is a great Pokémon to use."

Intrigued by the idea of capturing one, we check its Pokédex entry.

Maschiff: The Rascal Pokémon: Dark Type. It always scowls in an attempt to make opponents take it seriously, but even crying children will burst into laughter when they see Maschiff's face.

"Seriously? Burst into laughter?" I chuckle, finding it quite amusing. "It sure looks quite entertaining, but it's also slightly rude."

Serena joins in the laughter and adds, "I know." It seems like Maschiff's unique behavior will make it an interesting addition to our team.

As we arrive at the vast olive fields, Serena admires the scenery, commenting, "Wow... look at all those olive fields..."

Luke, well-informed as always, adds, "Olives are Cortondo's biggest export, and as such, it is also home to the Olive Harvest Festival."

While taking in the view, we spot some Pokémon with olive-themed appearances. They go by the name Smoliv, and considering they're a new species, we decide to capture one to add to our growing team. It seems fitting to have a Pokémon that reflects the region's agricultural importance in our lineup.

Smoliv: The Olive Pokemon: Grass and Normal Type. It protects itself from enemies by emitting oil from the fruit on its head. This oil is bitter and astringent enough to make someone flinch.

As we engage in training with Tarountula, excitement fills the air when it begins to evolve. We all watch with keen interest and anticipation. Gradually, before our eyes, Tarountula transforms into a magnificent giant spider with the lower half resembling intricately woven threads.

Spidops: The Trap Pokemon: Bug Type. Evolve from Tarountula at LV:15. It clings to branches and ceilings using its threads and moves without a sound. It takes out its prey before the prey even notices it.

Curious about Tarountula's new move, Silk Trap, Serena consults the Pokédex for more information. She remarks, "And it is capable of using the move Silk Trap... I wonder what it will look like."

Eager to see it in action, I suggest, "Let's try it out with the Buizel over there." I issue a challenge to the Buizel for a battle, and as Buizel prepares to use Aqua Jet, I command Tarountula, now Spidops, to use Silk Trap. To our surprise, it turns out to be a Protect-like move that also lowers the Speed stat of the opponent. It's a new and intriguing technique for our evolving team member.

Upon entering the gym building, I can't help but feel a bit perplexed. I voice my confusion, "Is this really the gym? I mean, where is the battlefield? And why is there a reception desk and no doors but the one leading to the staff room?"

Serena, equally puzzled, agrees, "This is definitely different from the gyms in other regions."

To make sense of the situation, we decide to consult the Rotom Phone, which provides us with information about the first gym leader.

Katy, AKA the Sugarbug, this Bug-type user is a recommended first stop for anyone considering taking on the Pokémon League. Though sweet as a treat, this baker of bug-themed pastries shows a bold streak in battle.

Nemona's presence at the Cortondo Gym surprises us all, and since we've decided not to use our disguises, it becomes evident that everyone is taken aback by our true appearances. Nemona greets us with enthusiasm, exclaiming, "Oh, hey! Ash and Serena! Came to see this Gym, huh? That can only mean one thing... You're out to earn some Gym Badges and take on the Pokémon League, aren't you?!"

I respond confidently, "Since I'm already an 8-region champion, why not make it 9 by beating the Paldea League?" The cheering from the onlookers in response to my statement is heartening.

Nemona's excitement is contagious as she cheers, "Yesss! I knew it! I'm so glad I asked you to do it!" Nemona cheers. "Before you can battle the Gym Leader, you've gotta pass a certain challenge set by them—their Gym Test. Every Gym's test is different. If you ask the lobby staff about it, they'll tell you what's up! Here, have these! When you use 'em, consider it me healing up your Pokémon!"

She generously provides us with Super Potions and continues to express her excitement, saying, "Ahhh, I'm so glad you're aiming to be a Champion, too! This is the best news ever! Man, I'm so excited, I can barely stand still... Guess I'll just go battle every Trainer I run into!"

After Nemona's enthusiastic departure, Serena encourages me to be the first to take on the Gym Challenge, saying, "Ash, why don't you go first? I mean, it will be great if you do it first."

I agree with her suggestion, saying, "Sure," and make my way to the counter. "Welcome to the Cortondo Gym! Let me register you as a challenger. Your name is Ash Ketchum, yes?"

I confirm my identity, allowing the Rotom Phone to register my information and applications. The staff then explains the Gym Test to me, stating, "Great! Now, in order to face Gym Leader Katy, you'll first need to pass the Gym Test. Here at the Cortondo Gym, that means taking on the Olive Roll!"

Serena and I exchange puzzled looks, both of us exclaiming, "Olive Roll?"

The staff goes on to clarify, "Olive production is a big part of life in Cortondo. We've held the Olive Harvest Festival here each year for generations to usher in bumper crops! To pass our Gym Test, you'll need to roll an olive-shaped ball all the way to the goal. Your efforts should help ensure we get a great olive harvest next year, too! The staff over at the olive-rolling field will explain the rules to you in further detail."

My Rotom Phone registers the location on my map, even though it's not necessary as it's just north of the town. Serena comments on the challenge, saying, "Olive Roll... that sounds very interesting."

I share her curiosity, saying, "I know. I can't wait to see what that's all about."

Upon arriving at the olive-rolling field, our initial shock is palpable as we gasp in awe at the colossal Olive Ball before us. The sheer size of it leaves us dumbfounded, and to make things even more challenging, there's a maze built into it.

Lucine is the first to comment, saying, "Look at how big the Olive Ball is... it is probably three times the height of us."

Golly adds, "No wonder this is not in the gym building."

Serena, perhaps voicing what we're all thinking, muses, "Though I wonder if I can really push the ball..."

Spotting the staff member who can explain the challenge, I say, "There's the staff member." We all approach her, eager to learn more about this intriguing Olive Roll challenge.

The staff member at the olive-rolling field warmly welcomes us and explains the challenge. She states, "Welcome to the olive-rolling field! This Gym Test is all about stamina - you'll need to push with all you've got to get a large olive ball rolling and make it all the way to the end. Get the ball over various obstacles, then push it into the goal to clear the course."

I confirm, "So I guess that red basket there is the goal? It really is at the end of the maze..."

She confirms my observation and asks, "Now that you're all filled in, are you ready to start the Gym Test?" I respond confidently, "Of course."

Handing her the permit, she encourages us, saying, "Great! Put in a wish for a good olive harvest, and roll, roll, roll away!"

As I stand at the starting point of the Gym Test and the countdown begins, I brace myself to roll the giant olive. However, to my surprise, as soon as I touch it, the massive olive begins to roll forward on its own.

I remark, "This doesn't seem to be hard to roll. But the problem is the rolling direction..."

I proceed with caution, ensuring that I don't let the olive cross the boundary line. After a while, I find myself at a crossroads with two paths to choose from. One appears to be a long route, while the other is a shorter path blocked by a Gym Trainer named Esmeralda and several Smolivs. It becomes evident that the shorter path is the more efficient way to proceed.

"I can give you a shortcut if you defeat me," Esmeralda offers, I accept her challenge and send out Fuecoco, making sure to keep the fight fair rather than overpowering her Kricketune. The battle begins, but Kricketune's Sing takes its toll, causing Fuecoco to fall asleep in the midst of the fight.

Desperately trying to wake Fuecoco, I shout repeatedly, "Fuecoco, just wake up and use Ember!" It takes a while, but eventually, Fuecoco manages to rouse himself from his slumber and launches the fiery attack, defeating Kricketune.

Esmeralda concedes, saying, "Looks like you're headed right past my Smoliv wall!" She has her Smoliv clear the path for me. Now, I need to exercise extreme caution as I maneuver the Olive Ball, making sure not to let it collide with any of the small Smoliv. The last thing I want is to see Smoliv Oil splattered on the ground, so I take every care to ensure a clean and successful passage through the course.

Golly and Serena share their thoughts on the challenge, with Golly remarking, "This looks very easy for him, don't you think, Serena?"

Serena, though, expresses some concern, agreeing with Golly's observation. As I continue to navigate the course with relative ease, it becomes evident that the challenge is indeed manageable.

Eventually, I find myself facing the final Gym Trainer, Antonio, who stands before the basket. He warns, "If you're looking for a shortcut, you gotta earn it! You're not getting past me easily!" Antonio sends out a Venonat to battle, but even with the type advantage, Venonat proves no match for my Fuecoco, and I emerge victorious. "Your mighty will blew right past me after all!"

With Antonio defeated, I wonder aloud, "Now how do I get the Olive Ball into the basket?" However, I decide to give it my all and push the giant Olive Ball with all my strength. To my surprise and delight, as soon as the ball touches the red basket, party poppers go off, creating streams of confetti that surround me in celebration. It seems that I've successfully completed the Olive Roll challenge.

The staff at the olive-rolling field congratulates me on my performance, saying, "With that performance, I'm sure we can look forward to a great olive harvest next year! I'm happy to declare your Gym Test officially cleared. Congratulations! Please report your result to the lobby staffer at the Gym. Good luck in your battle against Katy!"

I express my gratitude, saying, "Thanks." At that moment, Serena rushes over to me and embraces me, exclaiming, "You did it, Ash! That is amazing!"

Pikachu, not one to be left out, jumps onto my shoulder and nuzzles me affectionately. I respond with a smile, saying, "It's not actually hard, I'm sure you can do this too, Serena."

She chuckles, appreciating the vote of confidence, and replies, "Thank you for giving me that confidence, though."

After returning to the gym building and informing the staff of my successful completion of the Gym Test, he welcomes me back with enthusiasm. He says, "Welcome back, Ash! I hear you were on a roll out there! You've now earned the right to challenge the Gym Leader. Best of luck!" He provides me with the second permit, the one used for Gym Leader battles, and adds, "The Gym Leader is in the bakery known as Patisserie Soapberry, so head there if you're ready to challenge her."

I express curiosity about the bakery, musing, "A bakery? I wonder how tasty the food there is..."

Serena shakes her head, not surprised by my comment, and the three Pokemon seem to share her sentiment.

Drandon then points us in the right direction, saying, "Well, Patisserie Soapberry is over there." We exit the gym building and see the giant bakery looming in front of us. Luke continues, "On top of the bakery is the battlefield where the gym battles are held."

Eager to take on this unique gym challenge, I exclaim, "Then what are we waiting for? Let's just go!" With determination, we all rush toward the bakery, ready to face the Gym Leader and earn our first Gym Badge in Paldea.

Now if you're wondering, this is going to be different from Ash's Paldea Story as I have no intentions to delete that. I hope you like this chapter and the next chapter will be the gym battle.

Ash and Serena's Pokemon:

Charizard x2, Pikachu x2, Primeape, Lapras, Wooper (Paldean), Girafarig, Dunsparce, Steelix (Crystal), Sceptile, Gardevoir (Shiny), Garchomp, Lucario, Krookodile, Zoroark, Bisharp, Greninja, Sylveon, Noivern, Lycanroc (Dusk), Mimikyu (Shiny), Corviknight, Indeedee x2, Kleavor, Sneasler, Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly, Lechonk x2, Spidops, Nymble, Pawmi, Fidough, Smoliv, Bellibolt, Shroodle, Tinkatink, Wiglett, Flamigo