This chapter title is based on the song from Godsmack.
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.
Emerging from the Pokémon Center after a rejuvenating night's rest, Akari and Erika found themselves greeted by a crisp Eterna City morning. The air was invigorating, carrying the faint scent of dew-kissed grass and freshly baked bread from a nearby bakery. Akari stretched languidly, her arms reaching for the sky as a wide yawn escaped Erika's lips behind her hand. Their eyes met, and a shared smile bloomed on their faces.
"Do we really have to leave so early?" Erika mumbled sleepily, her voice thick with the remnants of slumber. "It's been ages since I've been in a proper bed, and I confess I was rather enjoying it."
Akari's grin widened. "I know the feeling, Erika," she chirped, her voice laced with excitement. "But the allure of a Gym challenge is simply too strong to resist! Besides, after this battle, our paths diverge, don't they?"
Erika's playful smile evaporated, replaced by a pout. "Must you be so blunt about it?" she teased. "And why the grin? Shouldn't you be drowning your sorrows at the thought of not having your esteemed travelling companion by your side anymore?"
Akari rolled her eyes at Erika's dramatics. "Oh, please," she scoffed. "We exchanged Pokégear numbers, didn't we? It's not like we can't meet each other after you take your flight back to Kanto. Now come on, sleepyhead! Time to conquer that Gym!"
With a renewed sense of purpose, the two trainers set off towards the imposing Eterna Gym, the rising sun casting a warm glow on their determined faces. They finally reached Eterna City the night prior after a journey that lasted another few days, time that allowed them two learn how Roselia grew since his evolution. The prospect of a Gym battle hung heavy in the air, a challenge both Akari and Erika were eager to face.
••• ••• •••
As Akari and Erika walked through the doors of the Eterna Gym, a wave of cool, damp air greeted them. The interior was surprisingly spacious, bathed in a soft, natural light that filtered through a large skylight overhead. Lush greenery lined the walls, meticulously arranged in a variety of planters and hanging baskets. The sweet fragrance of blooming flowers filled the air, a testament to the Gym Leader's type of choice.
In the centre of the main hall, a young woman stood perched on a stool, intently tending to a vibrant flowerbed. Her black hair was styled in low twin tails that cascaded down her back, and she wore a practical blue tracksuit that offered freedom of movement. Beside her stood a Nuzleaf, the leaf on its head twitching inquisitively.
Sensing their entrance, both the woman and Pokémon turned their heads towards the doorway. A warm smile spread across the woman's face as she met their gazes.
"Welcome to the Eterna Gym!" she greeted them in a friendly voice. "I'm Yoko, Gardenia's assistant. Are you here to challenge the Gym Leader?"
"That's right," Akari replied, stepping forward. "The Name's Akari and I'm here for a Gym battle. My friend Erika is here to support me." She gestured towards Erika, who was currently captivated by the vibrant display of flowers nearby.
"Excellent!" Yoko exclaimed, clapping her hands enthusiastically. Her Nuzleaf mirrored the gesture, its small hands mimicking the clap. "Gardenia's currently busy tending to the garden, but you're welcome to wait and chat with her before your challenge. In the meantime, I'll get the battlefield set up." She gestured towards a doorway leading to the back of the Gym as Nuzleaf mimicked her wave.
Erika, drawn away from the flowers by Yoko's announcement, strolled over to Akari's side and leaned in conspiratorially. "Seems like you could have gotten yourself a later battle slot if you'd wanted," she murmured with a sly grin.
Akari couldn't help but chuckle. "Alright, alright," she conceded, a hint of amusement in her voice. "I know you were hoping to enjoy your beauty sleep back at the Pokémon Center. Let's just say I'm a bit too eager to get this challenge started." A shared giggle passed between them, and with a lighthearted nudge, Akari ushered Erika towards the doorway where Yoko had vanished.
Pushing open a swinging door at the back of the main hall, Akari and Erika found themselves face-to-face with Gardenia, the Eterna Gym Leader. They were struck by her unexpected demeanour. Her fiery orange eyes sparkled with an infectious enthusiasm, and her short, half-orange, half-black hair was styled in a way that defied convention. She wore a black, long-sleeved crop top that revealed a sliver of midriff, a bold statement softened by the practical green cloak draped over her shoulders. A bold black "X" stuck on the front of the cloak to hold it together. The rest of her attire was a practical mix of brown knee-length khaki shorts, a black belt with a gleaming silver buckle, and sturdy green boots laced with black.
Yoko walked over to Gardenia and gave a cheerful wave, Nuzleaf mimicking the gesture. "Gardenia! We have a challenger," she announced brightly. "You can chat with them while I get the battlefield prepped." With that, Yoko and Nuzleaf disappeared through a doorway on the opposite side of the room, leaving Akari, Erika, and Gardenia alone.
Gardenia clapped her hands together, a satisfied smile spreading across her face as she finished her gardening tasks. She turned to face the two trainers, her gaze flickering between them. "Well, hello there!" She greeted them in a chipper voice. "You must be the challenger. I'm Gardenia, of course."
"That's right," Akari replied, stepping forward with a confident stride. "I'm Akari, and I'm here to challenge you for your Gym Badge." She gestured towards Erika. "This is Erika, the Gym Leader of Celadon City in Kanto. She's here to observe my challenge."
Gardenia's eyes widened in surprise as she took in Erika's appearance. "A fellow Gym Leader, you say? And a Grass-type specialist, no less?" She leaned forward curiously. Erika placed a gentle hand on Gardenia's shoulder to maintain a comfortable distance.
"Indeed," Erika replied with a patient smile. "I'm here because I wanted to evolve my Eevee into a Leafeon, and I did that while I was in Eterna Forest."
"A Leafeon, huh? Interesting choice," Gardenia mused, her eyes gleaming with a hint of something akin to respect. "Perhaps we could discuss a trade sometime? I'm always on the lookout for strong Grass-type Pokémon."
Erika's smile faltered slightly. "Thank you for the offer, Gardenia," she replied politely, "but I'm quite attached to my Pokémon. As one Gym Leader to another, I'm sure you understand the importance of maintaining a strong and well-bonded team."
Gardenia nodded in understanding. "Fair enough," she conceded. "I recently acquired some promising new Grass-types myself, so perhaps trading isn't necessary at the moment." She turned back to Akari, a playful grin spreading across her face. "Looks like you caught me at a good time," she declared. "I just finished up with my gardening, so we can head straight to the battlefield. Are you ready to face the power of Grass?"
••• ••• •••
With both trainers poised on their respective sides of the battlefield, Yoko stepped forward to deliver a quick refresher on the standard Gym Battle rules. Her voice, clear and concise, echoed through the spacious hall.
"Alright, trainers! Today's battle will be a three-on-three affair," she explained. "Each side is allowed to bring up to six Pokémon, but once your third Pokémon has entered the field, that's your team for the rest of the match. The Gym Leader cannot switch Pokémon once a battle has begun, but the challenger may do so at any point except when the Gym Leader is sending out a new Pokémon after a faint."
Yoko paused for a moment, allowing the rules to sink in, before turning to Akari with a questioning gaze. "Challenger Akari, are you ready to test your mettle?" she inquired, raising her hand in a gesture that Nuzleaf readily mirrored.
Akari met Yoko's gaze with a resolute nod. "I'm ready," she declared. Tightening her grip on her Poké Ball, a surge of excitement thrummed through her veins.
"Then let the battle commence!" Yoko announced, her voice rising in a dramatic flourish. Both hands shot skyward, and Nuzleaf mirrored the gesture once more.
Akari took a deep breath and threw her Poké Ball with a practised flick of her wrist. "Your turn, Monferno!" she cried out. The red and white sphere burst open in a flash of light, revealing Monferno, the Fiery Chimp Pokémon. She landed on the battlefield with a determined growl, her fiery tail blazing brightly as she surveyed her opponent.
Across the field, Gardenia grinned, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Alright, Whimsicott," she called out, tossing a Poké Ball of her own. "Let's show them what we can do!" Another flash of light erupted, materialising into a Whimsicott, the Wind Veiled Pokémon. It landed gracefully on the battlefield, its cotton-like form swaying gently in the breeze. A mischievous glint shone in its eyes as it faced its fiery adversary.
"Let's start strong with Tailwind!" Gardenia declared, a confident smirk playing on her lips. With a cry, Whimsicott launched itself into a rapid spin, its cotton-like body creating a swirling vortex around it. A surge of wind energy erupted from the whirlwind, buffeting the entire battlefield and granting Whimsicott a significant boost in speed.
Akari's eyes narrowed as she tracked Whimsicott's movements as her scarf flapped in the wind. The Wind Veiled Pokémon was now a blur, weaving through the arena like a ghostly wisp. "Monferno, Flamethrower!" she commanded.
Monferno, trying to keep track of Whimsicott, unleashed a torrent of fire from her mouth. The Flamethrower erupted in a wide arc, illuminating the battlefield with an orange glow. However, Whimsicott's newfound speed proved too much. The Grass-type Pokémon darted and jived through the flames, its cotton-like form barely singed by the edges of the attack.
"Use the wind to our advantage!" Gardenia called out, her voice ringing with excitement. "Hurricane!"
Whimsicott responded with a series of rapid spins, its tailwind growing in intensity. As it reached a dizzying speed, the wind energy coalesced into a powerful cyclone. With a deafening roar, the hurricane ripped across the battlefield, slamming into Monferno with an unimaginable force.
Akari gasped in shock as Monferno was unexpectedly sent flying through the air. Monferno landed with a heavy thud on the opposite side of the field, a groan escaping her lips. Knowing further damage would be detrimental, Akari reacted swiftly.
"Monferno, return!" she cried out, recalling her partner to its Poké Ball with a flash of red light. There was a pang of worry in her chest, but she knew she had to make a strategic switch. This was a bad matchup, and Monferno's fire attacks were best used on another grass type. Erika gave Akari a concerned look at having to switch so soon into the battle.
Reaching for a different Ball on her belt, Akari opted for her Great Ball. "It's your turn, Magnemite!" she declared, throwing the ball with a determined flick of her wrist. The Great Ball burst open, revealing the Steel and Electric-type Pokémon, Magnemite. Its single eye locked onto the rapidly spinning Whimsicott, a faint electric current crackling around its metallic body.
"Let's turn their speed against them, Magnemite!" Akari countered Gardenia's tactic, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Use Gyro Ball!" she commanded. With a static buzz, Magnemite began to spin rapidly, its single eye glowing with energy. A band of purple light materialised around its body, growing larger with each rotation.
Gyro Ball was an intriguing move. It dealt more damage to opponents with superior speed, yet it was still able to hit such speedy foes. A seemingly paradoxical concept. But the answer was both ingenious and simple. The attack utilised the opponent's momentum against them. By spinning in the opposite direction of Whimsicott's Tailwind and attacking where they will be, instead of where they are. With this move, Magnemite could predict the Grass-type's trajectory and strike with devastating force.
Across the field, Whimsicott continued its rapid spin in the air, oblivious to the danger approaching. The two spinning Pokémon met in a deafening clang. Whimsicott, caught off guard by the unexpected manoeuvre, was struck with the full brunt of Magnemite's Gyro Ball. The Grass-type Pokémon let out a cry of pain as it was sent hurtling backwards, its cotton-like form crashing heavily to the ground. Magnemite, on the other hand, remained stable, its Gyro Ball momentum keeping it spinning.
Across the field, Gardenia's eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't anticipated such a strategic counter from Akari. Undeterred, she sprang into action. "Don't give up, Whimsicott! Use Solar Beam!" she commanded, her voice laced with determination.
Whimsicott, despite the obvious pain it was in, rose to the challenge. Gathering its remaining energy, it focused its gaze on Magnemite. A ball of radiant light began to form between its horns, growing brighter with each passing second. Solar Beam charged much faster than Akari expected, she wondered why this was. With a glance to the sky showed a clear sky with the sun shining down brightly, Akari realised that the gym somehow turned the morning sun into Harsh Sunlight.
Akari's tried to remained calm, but a flicker of concern flickered in her eyes. "Magnemite, you can't dodge it!" she called out, her voice laced with urgency. "Brace yourself, but don't falter! Hit them with a Thunder Wave right after!"
With a metallic groan, Magnemite braced itself for the incoming attack. A blinding flash erupted as the Solar Beam slammed into its metallic body. Sparks flew, and a plume of smoke engulfed the battlefield momentarily. As the smoke dissipated, a bolt of electricity shot out from the smoke, arcing across the battlefield and striking Whimsicott. A jolt of electricity surged through the Grass-type Pokémon, causing it to yelp as its movements became sluggish.
When the smoke cleared, Magnemite was visibly scorched, its metallic surface marred by a faint scorch marks. However, despite the evident damage, Magnemite stayed in the air, its single eye glowing with a calculated gaze.
"Magnemite took that Solar Beam like a champ!" Gardenia conceded with respect. "Alright then, Whimsicott, let's go all out! Unleash a full-power Moonblast!"
Whimsicott, despite the lingering static from the Thunder Wave, rose to the challenge. Gathering its remaining energy, it focused its power between its horns. However, unlike the golden brilliance of Solar Beam, a soft, ethereal pink light began to coalesce. The ball of pink energy grew steadily, pulsing with an otherworldly glow, until it reached a size nearly equal to Whimsicott itself.
"Fire!" Gardenia commanded, her voice ringing with determination. With a final burst of effort, Whimsicott launched the Moonblast at Magnemite. The enormous pink orb hurtled through the air, leaving a trail of shimmering light in its wake.
Akari, ever the strategist, remained calm in the face of the oncoming attack. "Magnemite, block it with Gyro Ball – Strong Style!" she cried out, her voice ringing with conviction.
Magnemite responded with a whirring buzz as its body was kicking into overdrive. The familiar ring of purple energy materialised around its body, but this time, it was thicker and more intense, pulsing with a vibrant glow. The glowing purple sphere that was Magnemite collided head-on with the incoming Moonblast, creating a blinding explosion that momentarily obscured the entire battlefield.
When the dust settled and the smoke cleared, the scene revealed the aftermath of the clash. Magnemite, though sporting a few new scuffs and dents on its metallic exterior, remained standing defiantly. A testament to its impressive durability. Whimsicott, on the other hand, wasn't as fortunate. The effects of paralysis had taken its toll. The once-fervent wind spirit now stood panting, its cotton-like body trembling slightly. A crackling static field surrounded its form, a reminder of its paralyzed state.
Seizing the opportunity presented by Whimsicott's weakened state, Akari pressed her advantage. "Super Sonic!" she commanded, her voice sharp with purpose.
Magnemite slammed its two magnets together. A high-pitched sound wave erupted from its body, rippling outwards in an invisible wave. The sound wave washed over Whimsicott, causing the Grass-type Pokémon to flinch and wobble on its feet. Birds swirled around its head in a cartoonish fashion, a clear indication that it was now confused on top of being paralyzed. Whimsicott's situation looked increasingly precarious, and the momentum of the battle had shifted decisively in Akari's favour.
"Come on, Whimsicott, one more push!" Gardenia cried out, her voice laced with desperation. "Solar Beam, let's go!" Whimsicott, its body wracked with pain and confusion, struggled to muster its remaining energy. With a valiant effort, it focused its power between its horns, a golden ball of light forming once more. However, the strain of the attack, combined with its weakened state, proved too much. The Solar Beam sputtered and flared wildly before exploding prematurely in a shower of golden sparks that engulfed Whimsicott itself.
A collective gasp arose from the crowd as they witnessed Whimsicott stumble back, wincing in pain as stray sparks danced around its cotton-like form. Akari recognized the opportunity to gain a tactical advantage. While some might have opted to finish Whimsicott off with Magnemite, Akari saw a chance to switch preemptively.
"Magnemite, return," she announced, surprising everyone in attendance. They had all anticipated a final, decisive blow to Whimsicott, not a switch. Akari reached for a different Poké Ball on her belt, a sleek Luxury Ball with a distinctive gold band. With a flick of her wrist, she sent it flying through the air.
"Roselia, I choose you!" she declared. The Luxury Ball burst open in a flash of light, revealing Roselia, the Thorn Rose Pokémon. Roselia, bathed in the light of its arrival, gracefully bowed to the crowd before assuming a battle stance. A small, crimson rose bloomed from his Rose arm, which he then positioned delicately in his mouth, its red hue contrasting sharply with its vibrant green body.
"Finish Whimsicott off with a Sludge Bomb!" Akari commanded. Roselia, his rose held delicately in his mouth, swivelled his body to face the fallen Whimsicott. With a flick of his wrist, his rose arm bloomed slightly larger, its vibrant colour momentarily darkening. A glob of thick, viscous liquid materialised at the tip of the rose, pulsating with a faint purple glow.
The projectile launched from Roselia's rose arm with surprising speed, arcing through the air in a low trajectory. Whimsicott, still reeling from the effects of the previous attacks, was unable to react in time. The Sludge Bomb landed squarely on its cotton-like form, exploding in a small, noxious cloud. When the dust settled, Whimsicott lay motionless on the battlefield, a single, defeated sigh escaping its lips.
"Whimsicott is unable to battle," Yoko announced, her voice ringing through the arena. "Gym Leader Gardenia, please send out your next Pokémon!" She raised a hand in Gardenia's direction, a gesture mimicked by Nuzleaf beside her.
"Good job, Akari!" Erika's voice chimed from the stands, her cheer echoing through the arena. A proud smile spread across Akari's face as she offered a nod of thanks to her friend. The first hurdle had been cleared, but the battle was far from over.
Gardenia couldn't help but gush over Akari's Roselia. "Wow, what a magnificent Grass-type!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "That Roselia is simply stunning!" Roselia, basking in the unexpected praise, turned his head towards Gardenia and offered a playful wink before executing a graceful bow.
"He actually just evolved recently, while we were training in Eterna Forest," Akari explained with a warm smile. "We did some last-minute practice to see how he'd perform after his evolution, and I'm glad to see he's picked up some powerful moves."
"Evolved recently, you say?" Gardenia echoed, her excitement bubbling over. "Then I have just the opponent to test his mettle! How about you face off against Toedscool?" With a flourish, she tossed a Poké Ball into the air. In a flash of red light, a peculiar Pokémon materialised onto the battlefield. The Pokémon reminded her of a Tentacool, but it has a more earthy colour tone and was walking on the ground with their tentacles.
Akari, having never encountered this creature before, reached for her Pokédex. The moment the device scanned the Pokémon, a synthetic voice filled the air. "Toedscool, the Wood Ear Pokémon," it announced. "Though it bears a resemblance to Tentacool, Toedscool is a completely different species. Despite its slender legs, it boasts an impressive running speed of 30 miles per hour."
Akari's eyes widened in surprise at this revelation. Stowing her Pokédex away, she quickly formulated a plan to counter this unfamiliar opponent. "Roselia, use Toxic!" she commanded, her voice ringing with determination.
Roselia responded with a silent nod, his rose-like arm once again blooming with a sinister glow. A thick stream of viscous, purple liquid erupted from the rose, propelled towards Toedscool with surprising speed. "Dodge it, Toedscool!" Gardenia cried out, her voice laced with urgency.
The Wood Ear Pokémon reacted swiftly, its spindly legs pumping as it attempted to dart away from the incoming attack. However, the stream of poison possessed an unexpected level of agility. It twisted and contorted in mid-air, tracking Toedscool's movements with an almost sentient awareness. The inevitable happened, and the toxic projectile slammed into Toedscool, drenching it in a noxious purple aura. A grimace contorted Toedscool's face as the harsh effects of the poison began to take hold. The battle had only just begun, but the tide was already starting to shift in Akari's favour.
With the clock ticking down, Gardenia knew it was time to go on the offensive. "We're on a timer," she announced, her voice taking on a more serious tone. "Let's ramp up the pressure! Toedscool, use Screech!'"
Toedscool responded with a shrill screech, the sound waves emanating from its body like an invisible shockwave. Roselia flinched instinctively, raising his arms to shield his ears. A shimmering blue aura materialised around the Grass-type Pokémon, indicating a lowered defence.
Akari seized the opportunity to counter. "Roselia, counter with Sludge Bomb!" she commanded. Roselia's rose pulsed with a malevolent glow, and a glob of thick, viscous liquid shot out towards Toedscool with surprising speed. The Wood Ear Pokémon reacted swiftly, leaping to the side in a desperate attempt to avoid the attack. However, the Sludge Bomb arced through the air, catching Toadstool's leg in the explosion. A pained cry escaped the Pokémon as it stumbled back, the toxic effects of the attack coursing through its body.
"Don't give up, Toadstool! Respond with Earth Power!" Gardenia called out, her voice ringing with encouragement. Toedscool, despite the obvious pain, dug its feet into the battlefield. A surge of energy erupted from the ground beneath it, rippling outwards in a wave of earth and rock. The attack, aimed directly at Roselia, was a powerful display of Ground-type prowess.
Akari's eyes widened in alarm. "Roselia, Substitute - Agile Style!" she cried out, her voice laced with urgency. Roselia reacted instinctively, he jumped up to the air, and at the same time a copy of himself stayed standing where Roselia was while he also faded from view. The ground erupted below the substitute with a deafening impact, the aftershocks trembling beneath their feet. When the dust settled, Roselia stood panting, far away from the blast.
Gardenia, a determined glint in her eyes, seized the moment. "Earth Power again!" she commanded, surprising Akari with the aggressive back-to-back use of the same move.
Akari, however, wasn't one to back down from a challenge. "No time to dodge, Roselia! Use Sludge Bomb – Strong Style!" she countered. Roselia, despite his fatigue, responded with unwavering resolve. His rose bloomed larger, pulsing with an even more intense glow. A massive glob of Sludge Bomb, imbued with the power of the Strong Style technique, launched from the rose towards Toedscool.
Both Pokémon were locked in a tense stalemate. Toedscool, although its energy taxed from the poison, managed to gather the necessary energy for another Earth Power. Meanwhile, the oversized Sludge Bomb hurtled through the air, leaving a trail of noxious smoke in its wake. Neither Roselia nor Toedscool could evade the impending collision.
Two explosions erupted simultaneously, the battlefield engulfed in a swirling cloud of dust and smoke. When the haze finally cleared, both Pokémon were still standing, but the toll of the battle was evident. Roselia, while panting slightly, appeared to have sustained minimal damage, having only taken a single direct hit so far. Toedscool, on the other hand, was in a worse condition. The lingering effects of the poison coursed through its body, its movements sluggish and laboured, barely hanging on.
"You're putting up a real fight, Akari," Gardenia conceded with respect. "Alright then, Toedscool, let's make things a little trickier for them! Use Supersonic!"
Toedscool inhaled deeply, its balloon-like body inflating comically for a moment. With a puff of air, it unleashed a high-pitched screech that tore through the air. The sound wave, a sonic assault, washed over the battlefield, aimed directly at Roselia. Akari, however, remained a picture of calm as she countered Gardenia's move. "Substitute - Agile Style!" she commanded, her voice ringing with confidence.
Roselia reacted instantly. With a graceful leap back, he created a shimmering duplicate in its place just as the the Supersonic wave slammed into the Substitute, the force of the attack rippling across its surface. When the noise finally subsided, the shimmering copy dissolved into particles of light, a testament to its single-use nature. While the Agile Style Substitute offered undeniable speed in deployment, it came at a cost. Just like a regular Substitute, it drained Roselia's vitality, yet it only lasted for a brief moment.
Despite not taking direct damage, the Substitute had served its purpose. A purple aura fully engulfed Toedscool, the accumulated poison finally overwhelming its defenses. The Wood Ear Pokémon swayed on its stubby legs, its bulbous body trembling. With a defeated whimper, it collapsed onto the battlefield with a soft thud.
"Toedscool is unable to battle!" Yoko declared, her voice ringing through the arena. She raised a hand in Gardenia's direction, a gesture mimicked by Nuzleaf perched on her shoulder.
Erika clapped her hands together in delight. "Excellent work, Akari! Now finish strong!" she cheered.
Gardenia, despite the loss, offered Akari a wide smile. "You've clearly trained Roselia well, Akari," she admitted. "I expected Toedscool to put up a tougher fight, but perhaps my final Pokémon will prove to be a more formidable opponent. Roserade, come on out!" With a flourish, she threw a Poké Ball into the air. In a flash of light, a magnificent Roserade materialised onto the battlefield.
The Grass-type Pokémon bore a striking resemblance to Roselia, with its rose-like arms and humanoid body adorned with lush foliage. However, Roserade possessed several distinct features that set it apart from its pre-evolved form. A mask adorned its face, and its hair was composed of white rose petals. A small, leafy cape flowed gracefully from a yellow bangle adorning its neck, adding a touch of elegance to its already impressive appearance.
Akari cast a wary eye at the newly arrived Roserade. Taking a deep breath, she knew full well that many Grass/Poison Type Pokémon existed, and wondered if Roselia would be facing facing such a combination in this battle. "Alright, Roselia," she began, her voice firm but laced with a hint of caution. "Let's see how well they can handle Extrasensory!"
Roselia's eyes flared a vibrant green as he unleashed a wave of psychic energy. The unseen force materialised into a swirling field around Roserade's head, constricting its movements and overloading its senses. The Grass/Poison type Pokémon flinched and thrashed its head in a desperate attempt to break free, its movements becoming increasingly erratic under the psychic assault.
"Don't falter, Roserade!" Gardenia called out, her voice ringing with encouragement. "Jump high and use Weather Ball!" With a burst of effort, Roserade managed to break free from the initial grip of Extrasensory. Taking advantage of the momentary reprieve, it propelled itself upwards in a graceful leap. Once at the apex of its jump, Roserade raised its arms, its hands gathering a swirling ball of energy. The sunlight streaming down upon the battlefield became the fuel for its attack, infusing the ball with a fiery glow.
Akari recognized the danger immediately. "Dodge it!" she cried out, her voice laced with urgency. Akari knew that Roselia didn't have the vitality for another substitute, so could only hope for the best. Despite Roselia's best effort, the fiery Weather Ball was still sent his way. Roselia reacted instinctively, his arms crossing over his body as he tried to block as hastily as he could. A moment later, the flaming Weather Ball slammed into the grass type with a blazing explosion. The impact sent Roselia skidding to the ground with a sigh escaping them as they fainted.
"Roselia, return." she called out, retrieving her Pokémon with a soft declaration. Akari didn't expect such a brutal counter to finish off Roselia. "Get some well-deserved rest," she murmured as she secured the Luxury Ball on her belt. Taking her Great Ball from her belt, she flicked it upwards with a determined glint in her eyes.
"Magnemite, It's your turn!" she declared. In a flash of white light, the familiar form of Magnemite materialised onto the battlefield. The Steel/Electric type Pokémon whirred to life, its single eye locking onto Roserade with unwavering focus.
A murmur of surprise came from the stands. "Magnemite, after seeing Weather Ball?" Erika questioned, a hint of concern in her voice. "Are you certain that's the best course of action, Akari?"
Akari, however, remained undaunted. A confident grin spread across her face as she turned towards Gardenia. "You'll see," she replied coolly. "Magnemite will be the key to certain victory. Just watch."
Gardenia, intrigued by Akari's unexpected choice, couldn't help but return the smirk. "Confident, are we?" she countered, her competitive spirit sparked. "Then show me what you've got, Akari. Let's see if your strategy can overcome the power of Roserade!"
"Hit them with a Thunder Wave!" Akari commanded, her voice ringing with tactical intent. The confident smirk that had adorned Gardenia's face instantly melted away as she recognized the move used previously in the battle. A wave of static electricity crackled around Magnemite, building in intensity before erupting in a pulsating wave aimed directly at Roserade.
Just as the wave of electricity was about to engulf the Grass-type Pokémon, Gardenia reacted with a desperate counter. "Roserade, use Flash!" she cried out, her voice laced with urgency.
Roserade responded without hesitation, its entire body erupting in a blinding flash of light. The sudden brilliance forced everyone in the arena, including the referee, to shield their eyes momentarily. Magnemite, however, with its single, eye fixed on its target, powered through the discomfort. The Thunder Wave continued its trajectory, striking Roserade squarely and enveloping it in a crackling web of static energy.
As the intensity of the Flash subsided, Akari saw the outcome of the exchange, and a cheer erupted from Akari's lips as the attack landed successfully. "Yes! That's it, Magnemite!" she cried out. However, her elation was short-lived. Akari squinted towards Magnemite, a wave of concern washed over her. The single eye that normally glowed with unwavering focus was now tightly shut, its surface flickering faintly. The blinding light from Roserade's Flash had effectively struck Magnemite, leaving it temporarily blinded and its accuracy significantly reduced.
"Clever ploy, Akari," Gardenia conceded, a grudging respect tinging her voice. "But a one-trick Ponyta won't secure your victory."
Akari, however, remained undaunted. She shook her head confidently. "You underestimate the strategic value of that manoeuvre, Gardenia," she countered. "Magnemite accomplished two crucial things in that exchange, and both will contribute significantly to our eventual triumph."
"We'll see about that," Gardenia replied, a hint of scepticism lingering in her tone. Akari, however, pressed on. "Magnemite, use Supersonic straight ahead!" She commanded, her voice a beacon of determination despite the limitations imposed by her Pokémon's temporary blindness.
Magnemite, its single eye tightly shut, attempted to follow Akari's instructions. A distorted sound wave erupted from its body, but unfortunately, its aim was thrown off. The Supersonic attack harmlessly dissipated in the air directly in front of the disoriented Magnemite.
"An unfortunate miss, Akari," Gardenia said, a triumphant smirk returning to her face. "Now, Roserade, let's finish this! Weather Ball, go!"
Roserade, sensing an opportunity to capitalise on Magnemite's vulnerability, responded with alacrity. Raising its arms once more, it channelled the arena's sunlight into a swirling ball of energy above its head. As before, the Weather Ball crackled with fiery intensity as it absorbed the available sunlight. With a forceful throw, Roserade launched the attack towards Magnemite.
Blinded and unable to react in time, Magnemite took the full brunt of the Weather Ball. A fiery explosion erupted on the battlefield, engulfing the Pokémon in a blinding flash. When the dust and smoke settled, Magnemite lay motionless on the ground, its single eye shut.
Just as Yoko was about to declare Magnemite unable to battle, a faint light pulsed from where the fallen Pokémon lay. A series of cracks appeared on Magnemite's metallic shell, growing larger until the light erupted in a dazzling flash. The shell fell around Magnemite, still leaving visibly dented and scorched marks, but the Pokémon itself levitated slowly back into the air.
Gardenia's confident smirk vanished, replaced by a look of genuine surprise. "What in the world was that?" she exclaimed, her voice laced with bewilderment.
Akari, a triumphant glint in her eyes, offered a knowing smile. "That, Gym Leader Gardenia, was Sturdy in action. Magnemite possesses an ability that allows it to survive a potentially fainting attack with a sliver of health remaining. It seems you underestimated the resilience of my Pokémon."
Akari's brow furrowed in concentration as she strategized her next move. Akari knew that Magnemite was very binary in its mindset, making her wonder how extreme this robotic mindset is. A quick mental calculation later, a determined glint sparked in her eyes. "Magnemite," she called out, her voice ringing with renewed vigour, "Signal Beam - Strong Style! Aim forty degrees to the right, and twenty degrees down!" Akari knew this was a gamble, relying on Magnemite's inherent mindset to compensate for its blindness.
Magnemite, despite its lack of sight, responded with impressive agility. Its metallic body whirred as it adjusted its position, aligning itself perfectly with Akari's instructions. Then, with a surge of electric energy, Magnemite unleashed a powerful Signal Beam, the attack amplified by the strength of the Strong Style technique. A multicoloured beam erupted from its body, streaking across the battlefield in a dazzling arc.
Roserade, still reeling from the unexpected turn of events, was caught completely off guard. The attack landed squarely on its side, causing the Grass-type Pokémon to cry out in pain. Though injured, Roserade managed to regain its footing with surprising speed.
"Roserade, Magnemite is hanging on by a thread," Gardenia observed, her voice laced with anticipation. "Finish it off with Magical Leaf!"
Akari's heart sank. She recognized the attack – a barrage of razor-sharp leaves that would be nearly impossible to dodge, even for a Pokémon with full vision. The Magical Leaf attack materialised with alarming speed, a swirling vortex of green leaves hurtling towards Magnemite. The Electric/Steel-type Pokémon, weakened and still blinded, could only brace itself for the inevitable impact. The leaves sliced into Magnemite with a rapid volley, their sharp edges inflicting minimal damage to its steel body, but caused enough damage for its intended purpose. Finally, with a weak whirring sound, Magnemite lost consciousness and slumped to the ground.
Yoko, her voice ringing through the arena, declared, "Magnemite is unable to battle!" She raised a hand in Akari's direction, a gesture mimicked by Nuzleaf who stood beside her.
"Don't let this get you down, Akari!" Erika boomed from the stands, and Akari glanced upwards to see her waving enthusiastically. "Magnemite put up a fantastic fight!"
Akari nodded in silent acknowledgement, a flicker of pride momentarily warming her heart. Reaching down, she gently pressed the button on Magnemite's Great Ball. A red beam of light enveloped the fallen Pokémon, returning it safely to its confines. "You did an amazing job," Akari murmured softly, gratitude lacing her voice. With practised ease, she switched the Great Ball for her Poké Ball, her mind already set on her next move.
"Monferno, it's your turn!" she declared, throwing the Poké Ball with a determined flick of her wrist. In a flash of red light, Monferno materialised onto the battlefield, her fiery tail blazing brightly. The Fire-type Pokémon landed with a confident thud, her amber eyes fixed on Roserade with unwavering focus.
"We may be down to one Pokémon, Akari," Gardenia said, a competitive glint in her eyes, "but Roserade is still very much in the fight!"
"This battle is over, Gardenia!" Akari called out, her voice brimming with confidence. "Monferno, use Taunt!"
Monferno, understanding Akari's strategy instantly, mirrored her unwavering determination. She let out a fierce cry and struck a pose, a clear "come at me" gesture directed towards Roserade. The Grass-type Pokémon, fueled by a mixture of anger and frustration, flared its leafy arms in response.
"Another clever trick," Gardenia complimented, "Magical Leaf!" She directed at Roserade. Roserade once more formed a barrage of leaves and fired them at Monferno. The leaves swirled with vibrant energy, forming a dazzling green barrage that blasted towards Monferno.
"Flame Wheel - Strong Style! Burn away the Magical Leaf and charge forward!" Akari called out. Monferno spun in the air and formed a wheel of fire. As the Magical Leaf made contact with the Flame Wheel, it burned away instantaneously. The flame wheel then charged forward. Despite Roserade's efforts to dodge, the paralysis slowed it down, causing it to get rammed by the flame wheel and sending it sprawling on the ground.
Roserade strained to rise, its leafy limbs trembling. But the paralysis, swift and merciless, locked its muscles tight, leaving it a helpless statue. "Roserade!" Gardenia's voice filled with worry.
"This is it, Monferno!" Akari called out, her voice ringing with determination. "Flamethrower - Strong Style!" Monferno, a blur of orange fur, launched herself out of the fiery vortex of the Flame Wheel. With a mighty roar, she unleashed a torrent of flames that seemed to rival the sun. The inferno engulfed Roserade, the wind carrying the scent of singed leaves. As the flames danced their final flicker and faded, Roserade lay still.
Yoko raised her voice, heavy with finality. "Roserade is unable to battle!" Nuzleaf, at her side, mirrored her gesture with a solemn sway of its leafy limb. Her gaze then shifted to Akari, a flicker of respect replacing the earlier neutrality. "The winner is Monferno, and Akari the challenger!"
A cheer erupted from the stands, Erika's ecstatic yell that pierced the air like a celebratory arrow. Bursting from the seats with a speed that rivalled Monferno's agility, she raced towards Akari in a whirlwind of movement. Reaching her friend, Erika threw her arms around Akari in a bone-crushing hug, her embrace filled with a mix of relief and pride. "You did it, Akari!" she exclaimed, her voice thick with pride. "That was incredible!" Monferno, her fiery tail swishing excitedly, mirrored her enthusiasm with a joyful bark, and the hug naturally transformed into a celebratory group embrace.
As the laughter and cheers subsided, a rhythmic clapping sound drew their attention. They turned their heads to see Gardenia approaching, a warm smile gracing her lips. Her applause echoed through the arena.
"That was a fantastic battle, Akari!" Gardenia congratulated, her voice genuine. "You and Monferno fought with impressive teamwork. You've definitely earned the Forest Badge." As she spoke, she presented the badge to Akari, a symbol of her victory.
Monferno, sensing the shift in focus, leaped off Akari's shoulder with a triumphant cry. It took a moment for Erika to register that she was still holding onto Akari, a blush creeping up her face. With a sheepish grin and a playful nudge from Akari, Erika finally released her friend. Akari, returning Erika's playful smile, turned back to Gardenia to accept the Forest Badge with a nod of thanks.
Akari beamed as she accepted the Forest Badge, carefully placing it in her Badge Case with a satisfied click. "Thanks, Gardenia," she said, her voice brimming with post-victory energy. "That was a truly fantastic battle. The thrill of battling strong opponents and pushing my team to their limits... there's nothing quite like it."
Gardenia chuckled, a hint of respect in her eyes. "You're absolutely right, Akari. Being a Gym Leader keeps you on your toes, that's for sure. Speaking of which, your Roserade put on a phenomenal performance out there. Its graceful movements and powerful attacks were truly impressive. Are you absolutely sure there isn't a Pokémon you'd consider trading for it? A strong Grass-type would be a valuable addition to any team."
Akari shook her head firmly, a determined glint in her eyes. "No chance, Gardenia. Roselia's a part of my team, and we'll overcome any challenge together. Thanks again for the battle, it was an unforgettable experience. I think it's best I head to the Pokémon Center now to heal up my team before we continue our journey."
Gardenia nodded her understanding. "Completely understandable, Akari. You and your Pokémon deserve a well-earned rest. Have a safe trip to the Pokémon Center, and best of luck on your journey!" She led them towards the exit, offering a final smile before escorting them out of the Gym.
••• ••• •••
As they strolled down the sun-dappled streets, a crossroads loomed ahead, marking the bittersweet parting of their paths. Akari and Erika paused, the weight of their impending farewell settling in.
"Looks like we've timed it perfectly for your flight," Akari offered, her voice laced with a hint of melancholy. "The gym battle flew by, almost feels like it just started."
Erika chuckled softly. "Thanks to you getting us squeezed into the schedule early. Otherwise, I'd be sprinting to the airport the second your battle wrapped up."
Akari grinned sheepishly. "Yeah, I guess you're right." A comfortable silence settled between them, punctuated only by the distant caws of flying Pokémon. Finally, Akari spoke.
"Well, good luck on your journey back to Kanto, Erika. I have no doubt you'll be an even stronger Gym Leader than before."
Erika's playful demeanour faltered for a moment. She huffed, a hand reaching up to brush a stray strand of hair from her face. "Are you implying I wasn't a good Gym Leader already?"
Akari met her gaze with a knowing smile, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Erika, come on," she countered, her voice laced with friendly banter. "We both know you've grown incredibly strong on this trip, even if you were already a force to be reckoned with when we met."
Erika couldn't help but let out a small laugh, the tension dissipating. "Always the serious one, aren't you?" she teased, playfully clicking her tongue. "Well, in that case, it's been an absolute pleasure travelling with you, Akari. I have this feeling you'll make it all the way to the top of the Sinnoh Conference."
Akari nodded, her eyes instinctively drawn towards the majestic silhouette of Mount Coronet that dominated the horizon. "Yeah," she said, her voice filled with quiet determination. "Let's both reach for the peak, shall we?"
Their eyes met, a silent promise exchanged before a warm smile bloomed on Erika's face. After a lingering goodbye, they parted ways. Akari watched Erika disappear into the bustling crowd, a wave of bittersweet emotions washing over her.
••• ••• •••
Hours later, having healed her weary Pokémon at the Pokémon Center, Akari found herself aimlessly wandering the streets alone. The once vibrant city now felt strangely empty without her friend by her side.
As Akari continued her solitary walk with her head held low, a shadow appeared in front of her vision. She whirled around, heart pounding, to see two figures that were both familiar and strange.
There, perched majestically in front of a grand building, stood imposing statues of Dialga and Palkia. The legendary Pokémon, guardians of time and space, were instantly recognizable. Yet, a pang of longing pierced Akari's heart. These were just crafted figures, cold stone compared to the awe-inspiring presence of the real Legendaries she'd encountered in Hisui. Months had passed since The Dream, vivid and powerful, which left her with a lingering sense of destiny.
Akari approached the statues, their imposing forms casting long shadows across the street. As she drew closer, she noticed the inscription above the building's grand entrance: "Eterna Historical Museum." A spark of curiosity ignited within her. Perhaps within those walls lay answers to the The Dream and the connection she held to the legendary Pokémon. With newfound purpose, Akari pushed open the heavy doors and stepped inside the museum, ready to delve into the mysteries of Sinnoh's history.
I made a minor change to how sturdy works. Since Pokémon rarely faint from one hit in anime type battles, the effect of sturdy activates the first time they would be knocked out unless they were already very close to being knocked out.
With Gardenia's anime team, I knew it would be too weak to handle Akari since Ash could beat her with Turtwig, Staravia and Aipom. Because of that I gave it some buffs. I didn't know how this battle would turn out until I wrote the chapter, but I thought it would be more to the wire. I guess Akari is stronger than I realised.
Tune in next time for Dreams Never End: Chapter 18 - Everywhere I go
Next chapter will be on the 5th, Wednesday.