This chapter title is based on the song from All Good Things.
To all of you who read, follow, favorite, and review this story, thank you all! Your interest in this story fuels my motivation. I hope you enjoy this chapter.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the world in a warm, orange glow, the hustle and bustle of the Pokémon Center began to wane as that evening glow turned to night. Exhausted Pokémon, nestled comfortably within their Poke Balls, received the restorative benefits of the Pokémon Center'. The Trainers felt their bodies ache from the stress of the day's battles and sought refuge in the Center's cosy rooms, their eyelids growing heavy with fatigue. Soon, the gentle symphony of snores filled the air, a testament to the deep sleep that had overtaken them all.
The next morning, after getting a clean bill of health for their Pokémon and enjoying a refreshing breakfast, Akari received valuable intel from her new companions.
"A hidden path?" Akari repeated, eyebrows raised in surprise. The prospect of a shortcut piqued her interest. Off to the side, Akari spotted some of her Pokémon finishing their breakfast.
Ralts resembled a miniature black hole as she devoured her meal with a focus that could only be described as vacuum-like. Monferno and Budew, on the other hand, seemed to be in a race against time, their movements quick and precise as they gobbled down their food. It was clear they were worried about Ralts' ravenous appetite and the possibility of their breakfast disappearing before they finished. Magikarp remained lazily sprawled out in his aquarium. Unlike the others, he took his time with his food, occasionally barking out a laugh as he observed the frantic scene before him. The Pokémon of the others stayed off to the side, not wanting to have their food stolen.
"Yep," Kaitlin confirmed, her fingers gently stroking the fur of her Shinx. "There's a secret passage leading into Oreburgh City. It's not something widely known, mostly passed down among those who live here. You're quite lucky to hear about it." She paused, a playful glint in her eyes, waiting for Akari's response.
"Yeah, I'd definitely be interested in checking that out," Akari replied, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Intrigued by the possibility of a quicker route and with no reason to decline, she readily agreed to join them on their way back to Oreburgh City.
"Good," chimed Madeline, pushing up her glasses with a sigh. The familiar glint of sunlight flashed off the lenses as she adjusted them. "I don't think our families will be too thrilled we've been gone for so long." Her voice held a hint of worry as one of Madeline's Pokémon walked up to her to cheer her up
A surprise Akari didn't expect was Madeline acquiring a Pokémon of special origin. It was Shieldon, a Fossil Pokémon. This four-legged creature resembled a walking shield, its entire head encased in a metallic disc. Renowned for its defensive prowess, Shieldon and it's evolution earned its reputation as the "King of Defense" from the ancient past.
••• ••• •••
Once everyone was ready, they left the Pokémon Center. Their trek led them to the outskirts of Oreburgh City. Instead of following the winding road that snaked around the base of a towering mountain, they veered off course, heading straight towards a sight that made Akari raise an eyebrow. A massive, gaping hole in the mountain yawned before them, its dark depths shrouded in mystery.
Monferno, her fiery tail a beacon in the growing darkness, and Kaitlin's Shinx, its bright sparks adding flickers of light, took point, acting as their guides. The cavern entrance seemed to swallow them whole as they ventured deeper, the oppressive darkness pressing in from all sides.
They soon noticed many rocks piling up and blocking their path, Dallas stepped forward and confidently released a Machop. The short and stout Pokémon, resembling a miniature human bodybuilder, stood at attention, its powerful arms coiled and ready.
"C'mon, Machop," Dallas commanded, a hint of pride in his voice. "Just like Dad's Machoke at the mines, show 'em what you're made of! Break those rocks with Rock Smash!"
With a determined grunt and a glint in its eyes, Machop charged forward. Punch after punch, it pulverised the obstructing rocks with impressive efficiency, clearing a path for them to continue their journey towards Oreburgh City.
After what felt like an eternity navigating the dimly lit tunnel, a glimmer of orange light appeared at the distant end. Relief washed over the group - they had finally reached the outskirts of Oreburgh City. As they emerged from the cavern, the sight that greeted them was a breathtaking vista of the city bathed in the warm hues of gold. However, the breathtaking view was quickly replaced by a sense of urgency.
A glance at the sky revealed the sun sinking towards the horizon. Panic started to rise in Akari's chest. "We need to hurry!" she exclaimed. "If we can make it to the Gym before it closes, we might still be able to challenge Gym Leader Roark!"
In hindsight, perhaps they shouldn't have spent so much time earlier showcasing their Pokémon's skills. While the detour served a purpose - allowing Ralts to learn some valuable new moves - Akari couldn't help but feel a pang of regret. Now, the clock was ticking, and the weight of the missed opportunity hung heavy in the air.
••• ••• •••
The group entered Oreburgh Gym, a building that seemed to erupt from the very ground itself. Its imposing facade was constructed from massive, jagged rock formations, giving it an air of raw, untamed power. Huffing and slightly out of breath from their hurried journey, they approached the front desk.
It was deserted. No receptionist stood behind the counter, and an unsettling silence hung heavy in the air. However, as they ventured deeper into the building, a faint sound reached their ears - the unmistakable clash of Pokémon battling.
Eager to witness the action, the trainers quickened their pace, their footsteps echoing through the cavernous hall. The sounds grew louder, guiding them towards the arena. Bursting through the double doors, they were met with a scene of intense competition.
In the centre of the arena, two trainers stood locked in a fierce duel. One was a young man with fiery red hair, partially obscured by a red mining helmet. His attire resembled that of a miner, consisting of a rugged grey short-sleeved jacket and baggy pants with bold yellow and black accents. The pants were tucked into sturdy boots with bright red soles. A black tank top peeked out from beneath the jacket, and a pair of white gloves with yellow trim completed his look.
Across from him stood a thin boy, his hair hidden beneath a white beanie. He wore a black and orange collared shirt with short sleeves, a green backpack slung over his shoulder, and a pair of orange fingerless gloves. Black and green wristbands adorned his wrists, while a green headband held his hair back. His lower half consisted of dark grey slim-fit pants layered under black and grey shorts. His bright orange and green running shoes, with black soles and contrasting white stripes, added a splash of colour to his outfit.
In the centre of the arena, two Pokémon battled fiercely. On one side stood Geodude, the Rock/Ground type. Its stubby body resembled a living boulder, and right now, it was mid-attack. Curled into a tight ball with its arms tucked around itself, Geodude executed Rollout, its entire body transforming into a rapidly spinning sphere of rock.
Across from it was Aron, the Rock/Steel type. Unlike Geodude, Aron boasted a bipedal form, its metallic body gleaming under the arena lights. Sensing the impending attack, Aron's trainer, the thin boy with a white beanie, called out, "Protect!" A shimmering barrier materialised around Aron, seconds before Geodude's Rollout attack slammed into it with a resounding clang. The impact sent a shockwave through the arena floor, but the barrier held firm, leaving Geodude's attack completely nullified.
"Finish it with Metal Claw!" the beanie-wearing boy, now identified as Brendan, shouted with renewed confidence. Aron responded with a surge of energy. Its front leg glowed with a metallic sheen as razor-sharp claws formed at the end of its stubby appendage. With a powerful lunge, Aron delivered a devastating Metal Claw attack, striking Geodude squarely on its rocky hide. The blow was decisive.
Geodude let out a pained cry as it crumpled to the ground, defeated. The referee, an easy going man with a keen eye, stepped forward and declared, "Geodude is unable to battle! Aron and Brendan are the winners!" He raised a green flag in Brendan's direction, signalling his victory.
A wave of elation washed over Brendan. With a triumphant cheer, "You did it, Aron!" he cried, rushing towards his fallen opponent. He scooped it up gently, cradling its rocky form with care. Despite its exhaustion, Aron let out a low, triumphant cry, its stubby limbs twitching weakly in celebration. The victory, hard-fought as it was, was undeniably sweet.
The sudden eruption of cheers startled the three in the room. The five of the newcomers, unable to contain their excitement after witnessing the end of that battle, had burst into enthusiastic applause. Brendan, momentarily flustered, set Aron down and recalled it back into its Poké Ball with a practised flick of his wrist. He sheepishly rubbed the back of his head, not having anticipated a live audience for his victory.
Roark, the trainer clad in the distinctive mining outfit, stepped forward. "Well, well, well," he boomed with a hearty laugh. "Looks like we have an unexpected challenger coming in at the last second. Brendan here just finished battling my team, and they need a well-deserved rest. How about this," he continued, his gaze holding on to Akari, "you get first dibs at a battle tomorrow morning? Sounds fair?"
Roark strode purposefully towards Brendan, a glint of pride in his eyes. Reaching into his pocket, he retrieved a badge and handed it to Brendan. "The Coal Badge," he declared, his voice booming through the arena. "You've earned it, Brendan. A well-deserved victory."
With a hearty clap on Brendan's shoulder, Roark took charge of the situation. He led the group, including a slightly bewildered Brendan, out of the Gym and towards the Pokémon Center. Their boisterous chatter filled the air as they exited, a stark contrast to the focused silence of the previous battle.
Just as they were about to leave the building entirely, Roark stopped and turned towards Madeline.
"Auntie has been worried sick about you, Madeline. " he said, his voice softening slightly. "I'm guessing this has something to do with our new trainer here, wouldn't you say?" He gestured towards Akari, his gaze meeting hers in a brief but intense assessment.
Madeline nodded, relief washing over her features. "We met yesterday," she explained, launching into a quick summary of their encounter. "She challenged all four of us. Everyone else tied or lost to her, and honestly, I only won because I had a massive advantage over her Pokémon. Even then, it was a close call."
Hearing this, both Roark and Brendan perked up considerably at this information. Roark let out a low hum, his eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he looked towards the approaching Pokémon Center. "An interesting challenger indeed," he murmured, leading the group inside.
••• ••• •••
As they settled in at the Pokémon Center, waiting patiently for their Pokémon to be healed, the group Akari had met the previous day said their goodbyes and departed for their homes. This left Akari and Brendan alone in the waiting area. Roark, meanwhile, had disappeared behind the counter, engaged in a conversation with Nurse Joy.
Akari, unable to contain her curiosity about the Gym Leader's team, leaned towards Brendan and spoke in a hushed tone. "Hey, what kind of Pokémon did Roark use in his battle?" she asked, hoping to glean some valuable intel that might give her an edge in her upcoming challenge.
Brendan, seemingly a friendly and easygoing guy, shrugged and replied, "There's no harm in sharing, I guess." He leaned back in his chair, his mind rewinding through the events of his battle with Roark. "Alright, so first up, he sent out a Cranidos. I figured Grass would be a good counter to Rock, so I sent out Nuzleaf. But Roark must have anticipated that because Cranidos unleashed a powerful Flamethrower, forcing me to switch to my starter, Marshtomp."
"That makes sense," Akari interjected, her eyes gleaming with interest. "Water-type is strong against Rock-type, so it was a good call."
Brendan nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it was a pretty even match, but Marshtomp managed to pull ahead in the end. Next up was Onix, a real tough opponent. Honestly, I underestimated it. Onix landed a devastating Double-Edge attack that knocked Marshtomp out cold in one hit. Onix looked like it had no trouble taking out Marshtomp."
A flicker of concern crossed Akari's face. "Wow, that's rough. Did Onix take any recoil damage from Double-Edge if it acted like that?"
Brendan scratched his head thoughtfully. "Now that you mention it, I don't think it did. Maybe it has the ability Sturdy or Rock Head?"
Akari's eyes widened. "Rock Head! That would explain it. That ability negates recoil damage from moves like Double-Edge." She hit her open palm with her fist, her mind racing with strategies to counter this unexpected twist.
"Yeah," Brendan continued, "Aron also has Rock Head, but I haven't had a chance to teach it a recoil move yet. Anyway, after Marshtomp went down, I brought back Nuzleaf, hoping to exploit Onix's weakness to Grass-type attacks. But Roark had other plans. Onix kept using Screech, a move that lowered Nuzleaf's defence, making it difficult for my Pokémon to stay in the battle."
"Smart tactic," Akari murmured, impressed by Roark's battle strategy.
"Yeah, it was pretty frustrating," Brendan admitted. "Nuzleaf did manage to deal some serious damage, but ultimately, Onix landed another Double-Edge, knocking it out. It was a close call, though. If Onix had taken any recoil damage from that attack, it would have been defeated. Aron was able to take care of Onix quickly, thankfully."
Brendan paused, taking a deep breath. "Finally, Roark sent out Geodude, his last Pokémon. It only used Rollout, which isn't the most creative strategy, but it was effective. Luckily, I was able to have Aron use Protect just in time to block the attack. That gave Aron the opening it needed to land that decisive Metal Claw attack, taking down Geodude and winning the match."
Akari listened intently, absorbing every detail Brendan shared. This information could prove invaluable in her own upcoming Gym battle against Roark. A sense of determination settled over her. She was eager to test her skills against the Gym Leader and his formidable team.
After their enlightening conversation, Akari and Brendan continued to chat until a gentle chime from the counter announced their Pokémon's full recovery. Nurse Joy, with her ever-present smile, returned their Pokémon.
"Are you planning to stick around for my battle tomorrow?" Akari asked Brendan, a curious glint in her eyes.
Brendan shook his head. "Nah, not gonna lie," he chuckled, "I'll be celebrating with the team tonight. We'll probably be zonked out by the time your match rolls around. But hey," he winked, "I'll catch a recording later and see how you crush it!"
With a friendly wave, they parted ways, each heading to their assigned rooms. Akari, her mind abuzz with Brendan's insights, meticulously reviewed her Pokémon's moveset. She strategized, picturing each Pokémon facing off against potential opponents, meticulously calculating strengths and weaknesses. Every possibility was explored, every combination analysed. Finally, a plan began to take shape, a strategy tailored specifically for the challenges Roark's team might present. A wide grin stretched across Akari's face. She was confident, her nerves replaced by a steely determination. Tomorrow's fight was hers.
••• ••• •••
A crisp morning breeze heralded the arrival of a new day. The sun, a fiery orb peeking over the horizon, bathed Oreburgh City in a warm glow. Akari, having risen with the dawn, bustled with nervous energy. After a breakfast fit for champions - a spread that even Ralts, the insatiable eater, was satisfied by the meal - Akari felt a surge of confidence course through her. This Gym Badge, she was certain, would be hers.
With everything meticulously prepared, Akari returned her Pokémon to their Poke Balls. Stepping out of the Pokémon Center, she made her way towards the Oreburgh Gym, a resolute glint in her eyes.
Upon reaching the Gym, Akari wasn't surprised to see her companions waiting to cheer her on. What did surprise her, however, was their attire. Kaitlin and Madeline had transformed into a full-fledged cheerleading squad. Madeline, usually composed, peeked shyly from behind a pair of oversized yellow pompoms, while Kaitlin sported a bright, enthusiastic grin that matched the tone of the purple cheerleader outfit.
Behind them, Michael lounged on the stands, decked out in an excessively large jersey and a novelty hat that dispensed drinks through a straw. He held a flag with an image of a Poké Ball in one hand and waved a giant foam hand with a giant "#1" on it with the other, his cheers punctuated by enthusiastic slurps from his novelty hat.
Not to be outdone, Dallas and Machop had created their own display of support. They stood proudly side-by-side, holding aloft a massive banner emblazoned with the words "YOU CAN DO IT!" in bold lettering. Their faces, one human and one Pokémon, beamed with a shared determination, ready to witness Akari's triumph.
"Akari! You can do it!" Kaitlin's enthusiastic cheer echoed through the entrance hall as she jumped and waved wildly at Akari. Madeline, ever the composed one, attempted to join in, but her efforts resulted in a series of light hops and a shy wave behind her pom-poms. A blush crept up her cheeks as the others chuckled good-naturedly.
Roark observed the scene with a smile. He then turned his attention to Akari, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Challenger, you've arrived promptly. I can't say I've ever witnessed such energetic support this early in the morning. It has to be Madeline's friend and her infectious enthusiasm," he said dryly, sending a playful side-eye towards Kaitlin.
Akari couldn't help but grin at the display of camaraderie. "Honestly, I wasn't expecting such a welcome for my first Gym battle either," she admitted, "but that doesn't change my goal. I'm here to win." With determination radiating from her eyes, she stepped onto the rocky battlefield, her posture conveying a quiet confidence.
"Since this is your first Gym challenge, Akari," announced the cheerful referee, who she learned was named Ian, "let's go over the rules! Each side can use up to three Pokémon during the battle, although you can carry a total of six to choose from. You, as the challenger, have the ability to switch your Pokémon at any point during the battle, except when the Gym Leader sends out their next Pokémon. However, the Gym Leader cannot substitute their Pokémon once it's on the field. The battle is won by the trainer who has Pokémon remaining when their opponent cannot continue."
Akari listened intently, a determined glint flashing in her eyes. With a resolute nod, she reached for her belt, her fingers brushing against the familiar clasp of her Luxury Ball. Lifting it high, she held it aloft, its ornate black and gold design catching the light. Roark, mirroring her action, raised a standard Poké Ball, a confident smirk playing on his lips. The air crackled with anticipation as the crowd, a vibrant mix of trainers and spectators, roared their approval. They were eager to witness the first battle of the day unfold.
Akari took a deep breath, her gaze fixed on Roark. "Your turn, Budew!" she declared, tossing the Luxury Ball with practised ease. It arced through the air in a graceful curve before snapping open with a click. In a flash of white light, a small, spherical Pokémon with a single, green bud on his head materialised onto the rocky battlefield. Budew bounced once on the uneven terrain, his large eyes blinking curiously at the imposing opponent before it.
Across the field, Roark met Akari's gaze with a steely glint in his own eyes. "Onix, let's go!" he boomed, hurling his Poké Ball towards the centre of the battlefield. Another flash of light erupted, revealing a massive serpentine Pokémon formed entirely of interconnected boulders. Onix loomed over Budew, its sheer size dwarfing the tiny Grass-type. With a thunderous roar, it shifted its position, sending tremors through the rocky ground.
Akari remained undaunted. "Start things off with Growth, Budew!" she called out, her voice ringing with confidence. While a super-effective attack from the get-go might seem tempting, Akari had a different strategy in mind. She knew that powering up Budew's attack would be crucial for dealing significant damage to the Rock-type Onix later in the battle.
Roark, however, seemed to anticipate this move. A sly grin tugged at the corner of his lips. "Don't underestimate me, Akari," he countered, his voice laced with amusement. "Set up Stealth Rocks!" With a mighty roar that echoed through the arena, Onix lashed its powerful tail outwards. A hail of jagged rock shards erupted from the ground, scattering across the battlefield and disappearing into the cracks of the rocky terrain. An invisible threat now lay in wait, a hazard for any Pokémon that dared to enter the battlefield.
"Now that we're powered up," Akari declared, her voice ringing with newfound confidence, "let's weaken Onix! Use Stun Spore!" Budew, its single bud pulsing with green energy, responded with a burst of golden spores launched towards the towering Onix. But Roark, a seasoned Gym Leader, anticipated the move.
"Blow it away with Screech!" he commanded confidently. With a mighty bellow that echoed through the arena, Onix focused its energy. A high-pitched screech erupted from its maw, a sonic blast that tore through the air and dispersed the cloud of spores before they could reach their target.
Akari gritted her teeth slightly at the thwarted attack, but her determination remained unshaken. "This time, let Budew get close," she called out, formulating a new strategy. "Mega Drain!"
Budew capitalised on the opening. He darted towards Onix, his single bud glowing brightly. A green, ethereal tendril erupted from the bud, lashing out and striking Onix squarely on its rocky exterior. A surge of green energy enveloped the giant Pokémon, causing it to bellow in pain as its life force was sapped.
Roark's eyes narrowed. "Push them back!" he barked, a hint of surprise flickering across his face. "Rock Slide!" Reacting swiftly to Budew's successful attack, Onix roared and slammed its massive head against the ground. Several large boulders dislodged from the rocky terrain, launched skyward before arcing down towards Budew in a barrage of rock.
Despite Akari's warning shout, one of the boulders connected squarely with Budew, sending the small Pokémon reeling back with a yelp of pain. However, Budew's spirit remained unbroken. He shook off the blow quickly, his single bud pulsing with renewed determination as he awaited Akari's next command.
"Mega Drain again!" Akari yelled, seizing the opportunity. "Heal from the damage you took!" Budew, mirroring her resolve, launched another ethereal green tendril at Onix. Its massive size made dodging nearly impossible, and the attack connected once more.
"Enough of this!" Roark bellowed, frustration lacing his voice. "Hit them hard with Double-Edge!" In response, Onix, eager to crush this persistent Grass-type nuisance, surged with energy. A powerful aura crackled around its rocky form as it lowered its head and charged towards Budew.
A wide grin split Akari's face. This was the moment she'd been waiting for. "Worry Seed - Agile Style!" she boomed with confidence. Budew, his single bud pulsing with vibrant green energy, reacted with lightning speed. With great agility, he swivelled his body and aimed his bud directly at the oncoming Onix. A single seed shot forth from the bud in a blur of motion, embedding itself squarely into Onix's rocky hide just as the Double-Edge attack was about to connect.
A collective gasp rippled through the audience as the scene unfolded. The impact of Onix's Double-Edge sent Budew flying through the air, its momentum finally halted when it collided with a nearby boulder. Despite the hit, Budew remained conscious, still going strong.
However, the real shock came from Onix. The powerful Rock-type Pokémon now stood frozen in place, a look of pain clouding its expression. Its Double-Edge attack had backfired. Before anyone could react, Onix swayed and then collapsed onto the rocky battlefield with a heavy thud.
"Onix is unable to battle!" Ian, the referee, declared loudly, raising his hand to signal the fallen Pokémon. A hush fell over the crowd as he turned towards Roark. "The Gym Leader must send in their second Pokémon!"
A wave of murmurs washed over the crowd. "W-what happened?" Michael stammered, voicing the confusion of the spectators. Akari felt compelled to explain.
"I had Budew use Worry Seed," she announced to the crowd, her voice brimming with a hint of pride. "This move changes the target's Ability with Insomnia. While not necessarily a powerful attack in most situations, I knew Roark's Onix would use Double-Edge, and with its Rock Head Ability negating recoil damage, it could be a serious threat. Thankfully, my gamble paid off! By replacing its Rock Head with Insomnia, Onix became susceptible to the self-inflicted damage from Double-Edge!"
Roark, his initial frustration replaced by a begrudging respect, recalled Onix with a sigh. The first round of the battle had been a decisive victory for Akari, a testament to her keen observation skills and strategic planning.
Roark, his brow furrowed in concentration, tossed a Poké Ball onto the field with a practised flick of his wrist. "You had a chat with Brendan, did you?" he mused, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. "That's clever. But I have a few Pokémon up my sleeve he wouldn't have seen."
A flash of light erupted from the Poké Ball, revealing a creature unlike any Akari had encountered before. It resembled a cube made entirely of shimmering white salt crystals, its orange, square eyes gleaming with an intelligence that belied its simplistic form. This must be Roark's hidden weapon, Akari thought, her mind racing.
Instinctively, she reached for her Pokédex, scanning the unfamiliar Pokémon. "Nacli, the Rock Salt Pokémon," the device chirped. "The ground scrapes its body as it travels, causing it to leave salt behind. Salt is constantly being created and replenished inside Nacli's body."
Akari weighed her options. Budew had taken a significant hit from Onix's Double-Edge, and facing a new, unknown opponent wouldn't be easy. "Heal back up and use Mega Drain, Budew!" she called out, her voice laced with concern.
Budew, wincing slightly with each movement, focused its energy and unleashed another Mega Drain attack. A green tendril shot towards Nacli, but Roark anticipated the move. "Dodge it with Rock Polish!" he commanded.
Nacli's body shimmered as a layer of fine salt dust erupted around it, granting it a temporary boost in speed. With surprising agility for its blocky form, Nacli darted to the side, effortlessly evading Budew's attack. A trail of shimmering salt crystals remained in its wake, a testament to its unique ability.
"Now, Headbutt!" Roark barked. Nacli didn't hesitate. It charged towards Budew, its eyes fixed on its target. With a resounding thud, it connected with Budew, sending the Grass-type Pokémon flying back with a pained yelp.
Akari grimaced. Budew had fought valiantly, but it was clear it was nearing his limit. She needed a new strategy, and fast. Preserving Budew's strength for a later opportunity made the most sense. "Budew, return!" she called out, retrieving her Pokémon with a click of the Luxury Ball's button. The pressure of the situation weighed heavily on Akari as she contemplated her next move.
Akari scanned the battlefield, her mind racing. Budew was injured, and Nacli posed as an unknown threat. She needed a Pokémon that could move quickly and exploit any potential weakness Nacli's has. "Now's as good a time as any!" she declared, her voice ringing with newfound determination. "Your turn, Ralts!"
With a flick of her wrist, Akari sent her Heal Ball soaring through the air. It clicked open in a flash of light, revealing Ralts bathed in a momentary glow. The Psychic-type Pokémon materialised onto the battlefield, its bright, Marigold eyes scanning the scene with an air of quiet intensity. The swirling, star-like energy that usually surrounded Ralts shimmered briefly before fading away, a subtle reminder of her unique nature.
As Ralts gracefully landed on the battlefield, a subtle shift in the surrounding terrain sent shivers down her spine. Several small, jagged rocks materialized out of the ground, propelled by an unseen force, and slammed into Ralts' body with a series of sharp thuds. Ralts winced in pain as Stealth Rocks inflicted its damage. Despite the surprise assault, Ralts shook off the pain with a determined shake of her slender body, her marigold eyes blazing with defiance as she readied herself for the coming battle.
Across the field, Roark leaned back a thoughtful expression etched on his face. "So, what Madeline told me was true," he mused, his voice laced with a hint of curiosity. "That is indeed the shiny Pokémon I've heard about."
He turned his attention back to the battlefield. "Nacli," he commanded, his voice firm, "continue using Headbutt." The Rock Salt Pokémon wasted no time in obeying. With a determined glint in its eyes, Nacli charged towards Ralts, leaving a glistening trail of salt in its wake. Akari, however, wasn't about to let the attack land uncontested.
"Dodge it, Double Team!" she called out, her voice sharp with urgency. Ralts, her body enveloped in a blue light, duplicated herself into a flurry of illusory copies. Nacli, momentarily uncertain, slammed into one of the illusions, causing it to dissipate. With a sharp turn, it adjusted its course and charged towards another Ralts illusion, its singular focus on attacking hindering its ability to discern the real one.
Roark, witnessing the effectiveness of Akari's strategy, furrowed his brow. "This guessing game isn't working!" he called out, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. "Nacli, use Harden and wait for Ralts to attack!"
"Magical Leaf!" Akari called out decisively. The illusory copies surrounding Ralts shimmered and faded away, revealing the real Pokémon in the centre of the battlefield. With a burst of psychic energy, Ralts conjured a swirling vortex of glowing leaves that launched towards Nacli in a vibrant barrage.
"Get around the Magical Leaf and use Headbutt!" Roark countered with a bark. Nacli reacted swiftly. It darted sideways across the battlefield, its body leaving a glittering trail of salt in its wake. With surprising agility for its blocky form, Nacli weaved through the barrage of Magical Leaves, the attack harmlessly flying around it. Emboldened by its evasion, Nacli charged towards Ralts, its eyes glinting with determination.
However, just as Nacli was about to connect with a powerful Headbutt, the Magical Leaves changed course mid-flight. With a display of psychic control, Ralts redirected the attack, the leaves homing in on the Rock-type Pokémon and slamming into its back with a resounding thud. The impact sent Nacli tumbling across the ground, a cloud of dust billowing around it. As the dust settled, it was clear that the effects of Rock Polish had worn off, Nacli's movements noticeably sluggish.
"Hit them with Smack Down!" Roark roared, his voice laced with urgency. Reacting instinctively, Nacli focused its energy, a large boulder forming in front of it. With a heave, Nacli launched the rock projectile towards Ralts. The Psychic-type Pokémon barely had time to react. She braced itself for impact, the force of the blow sending her sprawling across the ground.
Despite the setback, Akari wasn't fazed. In a desperate attempt to gain an advantage, she called out, "Now that they've lost their speed, hit them with Hypnosis!" With a valiant effort, Ralts pushed herself to her feet and leaped into the air. Her eyes glowed a deep purple, and rings of psychic energy pulsed outwards from her body, washing over Nacli in an attempt to lull it to sleep.
However, the attack had no effect. Nacli remained motionless, its eyes gleaming with defiance. A confused murmur rippled through the crowd, echoing Akari's own bewilderment.
"Nacli's Ability is Purifying Salt," Roark explained, a hint of pride in his voice. "Not only does it make them resistant to Ghost-type moves, but it also grants them immunity to all status conditions."
Akari's mind reeled at this information. The carefully crafted strategy she'd formulated for this battle was crumbling before her eyes. She mentally ran through the list of status conditions a Pokémon could be inflicted with. Beyond the common Burn, Freeze, Paralysis, Poison, and Sleep, there were numerous lesser-known ones. Against Nacli, Taunt, Leech Seed, Hypnosis and more were all rendered useless by its unique Ability. The only potential counter she could think of was Worry Seed, an uncommon move that few trainers would have prepared.
Frustration bubbled up within Akari. "That's so cheap!" she exclaimed, pointing an accusing finger at Nacli. "How can such an overpowered Ability exist? What's next, are you going to tell me there's one that makes you immune to all status moves?"
Roark, unable to contain a sheepish grin at Akari's outburst, simply shrugged. "I'm not the one who decides what Pokémon abilities exist and what Pokémon gets them," he said with a hint of amusement.
Akari, her initial burst of frustration fading, grumbled under her breath. Muttering a silent vow to Arceus, the creator Pokémon, she mumbled, "Well, I do know who did, and let's just say they'll be hearing about this."
With the trainers back in their strategic stances, Roark seized the initiative. "Rush in with Headbutt!" he boomed, his voice echoing through the arena. Nacli, its single eye glinting with renewed purpose, charged towards Ralts with purpose.
"Magical Leaf!" Akari countered swiftly. Ralts responded with a burst of psychic energy, conjuring a swirling vortex of glowing leaves that launched towards Nacli in a vibrant barrage. This time, however, Roark had anticipated the move. "Don't slow down! Power through it!" he commanded.
The Rock Salt Pokémon, undeterred, charged forward, determined to land its Headbutt. The impact connected with Ralts, sending the Psychic-type Pokémon skidding back several feet with a pained cry.
However, Ralts, fueled by her own fighting spirit, didn't falter. She steadied herself and unleashed the volley of Magical Leaves. The attack hit Nacli directly, the barrage of leaves slamming into the Rock-type Pokémon causing an explosion and a cloud of dust erupted around Nacli as the attack connected. When the dust settled, the crowd gasped in unison. Nacli lay motionless on the rocky ground, taking too much damage and fainted.
"Nacli is unable to battle!" Ian declared, his voice cutting through the stunned silence. He raised his arm dramatically, pointing at the fallen Pokémon. A wave of cheers erupted from the crowd, their initial shock replaced by excitement. Akari, a wide grin splitting her face, had managed to pull off another victory against Roark's Pokémon.
Kaitlin, a flurry of purple and yellow, erupted in cheers alongside Madeline, who mirrored her energetic dance moves. The excitement was contagious. Michael, ever the enthusiastic supporter, rose to his feet, his flag waving wildly in one hand while his giant foam hand mimicked its movement in the other while Dallas and Machop pumped their fists and waved their banner with fervour.
"You really prepared for this battle, didn't you, Akari?" Roark chuckled lightly as he recalled Nacli with a practised flick of his wrist. He retrieved his final Poké Ball, a hint of a competitive glint in his eyes. "Let's see how much that enthusiasm helps you against my final Pokémon. Cranidos, let's go!"
A flash of light erupted from the Poké Ball, revealing a creature Akari had only encountered in The Dream. It resembled a small, bipedal dinosaur with a distinctive blue dome-shaped head. Akari instantly recognized it as a Cranidos, a Rock-type Pokémon known for its incredible head strength. Its stubby arms and legs seemed better suited for running than fighting, but the sheer size and hardness of its head left no doubt about its offensive capabilities.
"Hypnosis!" Akari called out without hesitation. Ralts responded with a burst of psychic energy, conjuring concentric rings of energy that pulsed outwards towards Cranidos.
"Jump over it! Then use Focus Energy!" Roark countered swiftly. Cranidos reacted with impressive agility, leaping nimbly over the oncoming psychic attack. A surge of energy crackled around its body, culminating in a concentrated glow around the tip of its dome-shaped head. Akari recognized the move - Focus Energy, designed to amplify the chance of the Pokémon's next attack to critically hit.
"Magical Leaf! It's vulnerable in the air!" Akari yelled, seizing the opportunity. Ralts responded with another burst of energy, conjuring a swirling vortex of glowing leaves that launched towards Cranidos in a vibrant barrage. The Rock-type Pokémon, momentarily suspended mid-air after its jump, had little choice but to take the attack head-on. The Magical Leaves slammed into Cranidos with a resounding thud, sending it crashing to the ground directly in front of Ralts.
Seizing the advantage, Roark barked out a command. "Headbutt!" Cranidos, seemingly unfazed by the Magical Leaf attack, propelled itself forward with surprising speed. Its hard dome slammed into Ralts with a bone-jarring impact, sending the Psychic-type Pokémon flying back with a cry of pain. Ralts landed hard on the rocky ground with a flop. Akari could see Ralts with her eyes swirling.
"Ralts is unable to battle!" Ian, the referee, declared, his voice cutting through the sudden silence that had descended upon the arena. He raised his arm, pointing towards the fallen Ralts. The crowd buzzed with anticipation as Akari, her face etched with concern, contemplated her next move.
Determined to deal as much damage as possible before Cranidos could unleash another devastating attack, Akari called out, "Budew, it's your turn again!" With a burst of light, the Grass-type Pokémon reappeared on the battlefield, its single bud pulsing with a renewed determination. Budew surveyed its opponent, the imposing Cranidos with its formidable dome-shaped head.
As Budew descended onto the battlefield, a shower of sharp rocks erupted from the ground, propelled by an unseen force. The Stealth Rocks slammed into Budew's leafy body with a series of thuds, sending a jolt of pain through the small Pokémon. Budew winced, his single rosebud drooping slightly. However, his fighting spirit remained undimmed. With a determined shake of his leafy body, Budew straightened up, his bud held high, and readied himself for the battle ahead.
Knowing Cranidos' agility, Akari decided to prioritise both offence and recovery. "Mega Drain!" she commanded. Budew responded with a burst of green energy, launching a tendril towards Cranidos' flank as it tried to dodge. The attack connected squarely, sapping some of the Rock-type Pokémon's energy while simultaneously revitalising Budew with a surge of life force. A faint grimace flickered across Roark's face as Budew's strength visibly improved.
However, Roark wasn't about to let Akari gain the upper hand. "Flamethrower!" he barked, his voice firm. Cranidos needed to finish the battle quickly before Budew could fully recover. The Rock-type Pokémon unleashed a torrent of fire from its maw, the flames engulfing Budew in an inferno. Despite his newfound strength, the Grass-type Pokémon cried out in pain as the flames singed his leafy body. The attack proved too much for Budew to withstand. With a heavy thud, the small Pokémon collapsed onto the rocky battlefield.
"Budew is unable to battle!" Ian, the referee, declared, his voice echoing through the silent arena. Akari numbly returned Budew to his Luxury Ball. Suddenly being put on the backfoot led to a wave of worry washed over Akari, but before it could consume her, a voice from the stands pierced through the tension.
Madeline's voice, brimming with unwavering support, rang out, "You can win!" Akari's gaze shifted towards the stands, where her friends were cheering her on. Madeline's unwavering belief was contagious. Kaitlin mirrored Madeline's enthusiasm, waving her pom-poms with renewed vigour. "Yeah, if you can beat us, you can clutch out this battle!" she exclaimed. Even the boys, Michael and Dallas, joined in the encouragement, their cheers and wildly flailing their arms bolstering Akari's spirit.
Akari couldn't help but let out a small chuckle, a spark of determination reigniting in her eyes. She grasped her final Poké Ball tightly, a resolute glint replacing the earlier concern. This wasn't over yet. The crowd's unwavering support fueled her fighting spirit. She will win this battle.
Akari wasted no time. With a determined glint in her eyes, she threw her Poké Ball forward. "Monferno, it's your turn!" she declared. In a flash of blinding light, the Fire-type Pokémon materialised onto the battlefield with a ferocious battle cry. Her fiery tail blazed brightly, casting an intense heat that shimmered in the arena lights.
As Monferno landed on the battlefield with a lithe grace, a shower of sharp rocks erupted from the ground in a silent explosion. The Stealth Rocks, invisible moments before, slammed into Monferno's fiery chimp body with a series of sharp cracks. Monferno yelped in surprise, a flicker of pain flashing across her eyes. But the determined Pokémon was a fighter. With a snarl and a quick shake of her fur, Monferno shrugged off the discomfort, her fiery tail flaring defiantly. Monferno, ever the energetic fighter, wasted no time flexing her claws and unleashing a few rapid punches in the air, her entire posture a testament to her eagerness for battle.
"Reduce its defence with Leer!" Akari called out, her voice ringing with strategic purpose. Akari knew all too well that Rock-type Pokemon boasted exceptional defence. To counter this natural advantage, she'd had Monferno relearn Leer, a basic but effective move that could temporarily lower an opponent's defence. Monferno's eyes narrowed, glowing a menacing red as she focused her gaze on Cranidos. A faint, blue aura materialised around the Rock-type Pokémon, signifying the successful decrease in its defensive capabilities.
Seeing the opening Akari had created, Roark responded swiftly. "Rush in with Zen Headbutt!" he barked, his voice laced with a hint of urgency. Cranidos, its eyes gleaming with determination, obeyed instantly. Its head pulsed with a vibrant purple light, the telltale sign of a Zen Headbutt attack. It charged towards Monferno, its formidable dome-shaped head poised for a devastating blow.
Akari, however, had anticipated this move. "Dodge it with Mach Punch - Agile Style!" she countered with practised precision. Monferno, her body coiled with anticipation, reacted with lightning speed. She darted sideways in a blur of motion, effortlessly evading the brunt of Cranidos' Zen Headbutt. However, Roark, a seasoned trainer himself, wasn't finished yet.
"While it's off balance, rush back in for another Zen Headbutt!" he commanded, seizing the opportunity. Cranidos, momentarily thrown off course by Monferno's agility, quickly righted itself and charged forward once more. This time, however, Monferno wasn't prepared for the sudden second attack. The powerful Zen Headbutt connected squarely with the Fire-type Pokémon, sending her flying across the battlefield with a surprised yelp. Monferno tumbled several times before coming to a rest on the rocky ground, her body momentarily stunned by the impact. Despite the blow, Monferno, a true battler at heart, slowly pushed herself to her feet, her fiery spirit refusing to be quelled. She glared defiantly at Cranidos, her determination to win burning brighter than ever.
"Attack with Power-Up Punch - Strong Style!" Akari commanded, her voice ringing with confidence. Monferno, her fiery tail blazing even more intensely, responded with a ferocious roar. She darted towards Cranidos, her fist enveloped in a vibrant red aura – the telltale sign of a Power-Up Punch. Cranidos, with its eyes narrowed in concentration, met the attack head-on with a glowing Zen Headbutt.
For a tense moment, the two Pokémon locked in a brutal struggle. Cranidos' formidable head seemed to have the upper hand, forcing Monferno back slightly. However, the surge of power from the Power-Up Punch began to take effect. A red aura surged around Monferno, visibly bolstering her strength. With a final burst of effort, Monferno overpowered Cranidos, sending the Rock-type Pokémon skidding back across the rocky terrain.
Capitalising on the opening, Akari seized the moment. "Finish it! Rapid Fire Mach Punch - Agile Style!" she yelled, her voice filled with a determined edge. Monferno, sensing victory within her grasp, let out a cry of exertion. In a blur of motion, she closed the distance between herself and the reeling Cranidos. A barrage of punches erupted from Monferno's fists, each one connecting with a resounding thud. The rapid assault left Cranidos with no room to defend itself. After a final, powerful punch, Monferno momentarily paused, panting heavily. Cranidos, its body battered and bruised, slumped to the ground, swirls appearing in its eyes.
"Cranidos is unable to battle! Monferno wins! The victor is the Challenger, Akari!" Ian, the energetic referee, declared, his voice booming through the arena. He raised his arm, pointing dramatically towards Monferno and Akari.
A wave of cheers erupted from the stands. Kaitlin and Madeline's ecstatic screams pierced through the excited throng, while Michael and Dallas alongside his Machop celebrated with enthusiastic cheers and vigorous fist pumps. The cheers and applause fueled Akari with a surge of pride. With a gentle smile, she walked up to Monferno "You did great," she whispered, her voice filled with admiration for her loyal companions.
Roark approached Akari, the Coal Badge clutched firmly in his hand. He stopped in front of her and extended his arm, offering the badge. "This Coal Badge is yours," he declared, a hint of respect tinging his voice.
Akari's smile widened as she gingerly reached out and took the badge. It felt surprisingly heavy in her hand, a tangible symbol of her victory. With a reverence befitting its importance, she carefully placed the Coal Badge in her badge case, ensuring it would be safe alongside the others she had collected on her journey.
Monferno, sensing Akari's elation, let out a celebratory cry, her fiery tail flickering excitedly. Before Akari could even react, a wave of her friends surged onto the battlefield, their faces beaming with pride. Laughter filled the air as Madeline and Kaitlin enveloped Akari in a hug, their cheers echoing through the arena. Michael and Dallas, unable to contain their enthusiasm, hoisted Akari onto their shoulders as they cheered for her victory.
Once the initial frenzy subsided, Michael and Dallas carefully lowered Akari back to the ground. As she caught her breath, her Poké Gear chimed, the familiar tune indicating an incoming call. Glancing down at the screen, Akari's smile returned as she saw Lucas' name displayed.
"Hey!" Lucas' voice crackled through the receiver. "Just wanted to let you know we're a day away from Jubilife City. What kind of trouble have you been getting into?"
Akari chuckled. "Actually, I just beat the Oreburgh Gym! What took you so long to get back to Jubilife? Were you busy training or something? And who's this 'we' you mentioned?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.
Lucas hesitated for a moment before responding. "Uh, yeah, I was doing some training to catch up a bit, and maybe catching a few new Pokémon along the way. When I arrived in Sandgem Town, guess who decided to join me on the trek to Jubilife City? Professor Rowan! Apparently, he wanted to enjoy the scenic route instead of the boring car ride."
Akari glanced down at her watch, the analogue clock telling her it was still early morning. With a quick calculation, she realised that if she pushed herself, she could reach Jubilife City by sundown. Her newfound friends, sensing the shift in her demeanour, exchanged knowing glances.
"Actually, if I rush a bit, I think I can make it to Jubilife City before nightfall," Akari announced.
"Really? Well, then I'll see you at the Pokémon Center! Bye!" Lucas' voice crackled through the phone as he responded eagerly.
Akari nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Bye, Cuz," she said before ending the call with a tap on her Poké Gear. She turned towards her new friends, an apology already forming on her lips.
"Don't worry about it," Michael interrupted with a friendly shake of his head. "We understand."
"If you ever want to visit Oreburgh again, you know where to find us," Dallas added with a grin.
"We might slow you down on your journey," Madeline chimed in, "but that won't stop us from cheering you on from the sidelines!"
Kaitlin winked. "And hey, before you go, how about we exchange phone numbers? No need to be a stranger, right?"
Akari's face broke into a grateful smile. After exchanging contact information and getting her Pokémon healed at the Pokémon Center, it was time to depart from Oreburgh. With a wave goodbye to her friends, she set off back towards Jubilife City.
At first, Akari started with a brisk walk, her heart brimming with the warmth of their newfound friendship. As she waved one last time, a surge of determination propelled her forward into a run. Suddenly, with a thought of her Arc Belt, her shoes transformed into a sleek pair of roller skates. Landing with a burst of speed, she launched herself down the path, leaving Oreburgh City in a blur behind her.
However, her swift exit was momentarily interrupted. On the outskirts of town, she spotted a familiar figure entering Oreburgh City – it was Paul. Given her hurried schedule, Akari opted not to disturb him, and instead continued her trek towards Jubilife City, the promise of reuniting with Lucas fueling her every step.
A few things happened in this chapter, huh?
First of all, Brendan has been introduced! He did cameo in the DP anime, so it makes sense to include him. He is wearing his Emerald outfit, but I never realised he wore two sets of pants until i had to give a description of the guy.
Next, congratulations to Akari for earning her first Gym Badge! Considering we're at Chapter 11, that means... well, let's just say there's a lot of story ahead.
Akari also received a call from Lucas, prompting a meeting with him and Professor Rowan in Jubilife City. One can only wonder what they'll discuss!
Finally, Paul makes a brief appearance entering Oreburgh City. Following the anime, it's safe to assume Ash and his companions aren't far behind. However, Akari will miss them by taking the Oreburgh Gate path, while they take the longer route.
Tune in next time for Dreams Never End: Chapter 12 - Point Of No Return
Next chapter will be on the 9th, Thursday.