Kanto Gets Loud

Chapter 60: Maiden's Peak Gym Battle

Somewhere in Maiden's Peak,

A robed teen girl was gazing into a crystal ball, "Soon, I'll find my destined one. I know he must be out there somewhere," she mused, as she got something, "Ah, finally! I can see the one I'm destined to be with! I see…. I see… I see…. He has… white hair?" she questioned. Upon closer inspection, she recognized the boy she saw in the Crystal Ball as Lincoln Loud, the boy that had been making a name for himself in the few short months he's been in Kanto, "Oh my, my beloved one is…" she couldn't finish her thought, as she fell backwards in her chair from a gushing nosebleed.

The Next Morning,

Lincoln shot up in his bed, panting and sweating like crazy, "Ugh, what was that all about?" he wondered.

"Everything alright, Lincoln?" Pikachu asked, as he was woken up by Lincoln.

"Y-Yeah. Just had a really bizarre dream," Lincoln replied, as he then looked around the room, and saw all the beds were empty, "Guess they got up for breakfast already," he theorized, as he got out of bed himself. He went to change into a fresh pair of clothes, "C'mon Pikachu, lets go get some breakfast."

"Sounds good!" Pikachu got up, and crawled onto Lincoln's shoulder, as they left the room. As soon as he reached the Lobby, he saw some of his sisters sitting alongside his monster fiancés, each in their human disguises.

"Well, looks who's finally up!" Loona commented, seeing Lincoln walking out into the lobby.

"I had a feeling I'd find you all in here. So, what's up?" Lincoln asked.

"Not much. We were just chatting with your future brides," Lola replied.

"Can you believe it, Lincoln? They're saying that I need one of the others to be a chaperone for OUR dates together!" Verosika complained, pulling Lincoln into her breasts, "It's as if they don't trust me!"

"You're right. We don't trust you," Loona replied.

"WELL!" Verosika scoffed. Miu then pulled Lincoln from her embrace.

"Don't take that tone with us, Verosika. We all know that you're in your succubus' boy crazy phase. But now that we're officially destined to marry Lincoln, that means you can't do anything with other boys," the Oni Girl in disguise stated.

"Plus, there is also the clause in Dad's proposed bill that states humans and monsters can't engage in any sort of illicit activities. Not to mention we've been warned by Rita about what'll happen if we do anything with her son," Charlie added.

"I think she also directed that proclamation at me, too," Lincoln said bluntly.

"Fair point. But you don't seem like the kind of person to do anything untoward like that to anyone," Charlie replied, as Miu set him back down on the floor.

"Well, Mom and the others are in the cafeteria, having their breakfast. You should go catch up with them, bro," Luna stated.

"I'll do that. Thank you," Lincoln replied, as he and Pikachu went to the cafeteria. True to what Luna said, Lincoln saw Rita and the rest of the monster parents enjoying breakfast.

"Well, looks like the man of the hour's finally showed up!" Millie commented, noticing Lincoln enter the room.

"Morning Lincoln. Did you sleep well?" Rita asked.

"I'd say so," Lincoln replied.

"Good to hear. Once your done with breakfast, we'll head out to find the Gym," Rita replied.

"I'm looking forward to seeing how one of these 'Gym Battles' are fought," Stolas commented, eating some melon.

"I'm just wondering what this Test of Character will be," Lincoln replied, as he went to get some food.

A little later that morning, in front of the Maiden's Peak Gym,

The large group arrived at what appeared to be an abandoned mansion, "This place looks like it's seen better days," Lana commented.

"Are you certain this is the Gym?" Lisa asked Lincoln.

"According to the information I got from Nurse Joy and Leaf, this should be it," Lincoln replied, as the doors creaked open. Stepping outside emerged two people, a man, and a teen girl. The man was dressed in a priest's attire, much like what Yurei was wearing during the festival. The girl, much like most other girls Lincoln has encountered while in Kanto, was an extremely beautiful and busty young woman, carrying possible L-Cup breasts. She was wearing a long, black dress, which complemented her wide hips just as much as it did with her bosom. She also had long, messy black hair. Lincoln also noticed that in her purple eyes, he saw they were all swirly. She blushed upon seeing Lincoln.

"So, you're the challenger, Lincoln Loud, right?" the man asked.

"Yes, that's right. I'm here to challenge Yurei for a chance at my fifth badge," Lincoln replied.

"I see. You are more than welcome to come in and challenge her, but first, there's the matter of the Test of Character," the man stated.

"And the Test of Character for the Maiden's Peak Gym is a Haunted House Puzzle Maze!" the girl proclaimed.

"A haunted house maze? That doesn't seem too tough," Lincoln commented.

"You'll see when you get in," the girl stated.

"Who are these people, Lincoln?" Rita asked.

"If I had to take a guess, I would say that they're Gym Trainers," Lincoln replied.

"Indeed. I'm Chad the Channeler," the man said, introducing himself.

"And I'm Amber, a Hex Maniac. Now then, Lincoln, please, step this way," the girl said, leading Lincoln into the mansion, and off in one direction.

"If you all are here to watch the battle, then please, follow me to the stands," the man said, as he led the others in another direction.

A little later, with Lincoln,

Lincoln was at what appeared to be a starting gate, "Ok, Lincoln, the goal of your Test of Character is to find three crystal skulls and bring them back here. You can carry the skulls in this little bag," the Hex Maniac said, handing Lincoln a small, burlap bag, "But be warned, a lot of rooms won't have anything at all, and some will have trainers who might be guarding one of the skulls you're tasked with collecting."

"Ok, that sounds simple enough. Is checking all doors fair game?" Lincoln asked.

"By all means. The Skulls will be on a pedestal in three different rooms, however, with two of them, you'll have to overcome an obstacle. And remember, if you open a door with a trainer inside and there's no skull, you'll still have to battle that trainer," Amber replied.

"Ok, that sounds like it might be tricky," Lincoln commented.

"Well, in any case, your Test of Character begins now!" Amber declared, allowing Lincoln to head into the halls of the mansion.

"So, where do you want to start looking first?" Pikachu asked.

"Hard to say. All the doors look the same, meaning we'll probably have to check them all one at a time," Lincoln replied. And he wasn't kidding. The doors were all the same, with no noticeable patterns in them.

"Which could take hours at most," Pikachu replied.

"Well, what other choice do we have?" Lincoln questioned, as he stopped by one door at random, "Well, lets see what's behind door #1," he commented, as he opened the door, revealing an old looking bedroom. In the dead center, Lincoln saw a pedestal with one of the skulls he had to find, "Well, lucky me!" he said, as he went to collect it. But he made sure to scan the room to make sure there wasn't any trainers or puzzles he had to deal with. When he found nothing, he breathed a sigh of relief, "Ok, the first skull is mine!" he then collected the skull, and placed it in the bag the Hex Maniac gave him before.

"Now we just need to find the other two," Pikachu commented.

"I just wish they had some kind of clue to point us in the direction of the next skull," Lincoln commented, as he and Pikachu continued exploring the mansion.

Meanwhile, at the Gym Battlefield,

While waiting for Lincoln to finish his Test of Character, his family, friends, and fiancés were sitting in the stands, watching Yurei as she was battling another trainer, and both trainers were down to their last Pokemon. Her Pokemon was a large, blackish purple Pokemon with red, piercing eyes and a menacing grin on it's face. They were engaged in battle with a large, bipedal Pokemon that looked to be something like a mantis shrimp. It was coated in greyish blue armor like plating, with feathers growing on its neck, and was wielding two large claws.

"Alright Gengar, lets show this challenger what Ghost Type Pokemon are really all about!" Yurei exclaimed. Her Gengar cackled wickedly.

"Heads up, Armaldo! Keep track of Gengar's movements!" the challenger called out. His Armaldo clicked it's claws together, raring to go.

"That's bound to be one of the Pokemon Lincoln will face," Clyde commented, as he and Giggles scanned both Pokemon on the battlefield.

"Gengar, the Shadow Pokemon, a Ghost and Poison Type, and the fully evolved form of Gastly. Gengar is able to steal heat from its surroundings. If it feels ten degrees colder, it means Gengar is nearby," Clyde's Pokedex explained.

"Armaldo, the Plate Pokemon, a Rock and Bug Type, and the evolved form of Anorith. Armaldo adapted from living in water to living on land. It has been determined that it is the ancestor of some bug Pokemon. It's sharp claws are its greatest weapons," Giggles' Pokedex explained.

"Wait, 'ancestor'? That makes it sound like it's some kind o' dinosaur Pokemon," Millie commented.

"I've read somewhere that Armaldo is the evolved form of Anorith, a Pokemon that can be restored from a Claw Fossil. So, in a way, I suppose it is like a dinosaur," Brock replied.

"I have many things to say about that, namely that there is literally an entire movie franchise on why reviving dinosaurs is a terrible idea!" Sam commented.

"You'd think that, but Fossil Pokemon can make friends with humans fairly easily, even ones as ferocious as an Aerodactyl," Brock replied.

"Do you think Lincoln will ever find himself a Fossil Pokemon?" Lana questioned.

"It's possible. It's all a matter of what kind it's bound to be," Misty replied.

"On an unrelated topic, one you all would probably rather not talk about, but what are you going to do with those other three?" Wolfgang asked. The Louds grimaced upon thinking of Lori and both Lynns.

"Well, I'm going through with the divorce. If Lynn can't accept the fact that WE'RE the ones more in the wrong than Lincoln, then I would rather not stay with him," Rita replied.

"It takes a strong woman to have such a conviction like that, Rita," Lilianna stated.

"Thank you, Lilianna. And as for Lori and Junior, I don't know what I can do with them. Punishing them only seems to make things worse with them, and quite frankly, they're as stubborn as they come," Rita replied, not knowing how to deal with the two most problematic daughters she had.

"Well, I have one idea that could work. Only problem is that our family's reputation could go down the drain and never be repaired," Luan chimed in, causing all eyes to fall on her.

"Well, what do you have in mind, sweetie?" Rita asked.

"I'm going to make a confession video where I reveal our family's true colors, and what we did to Lincoln during this whole ordeal," Luan replied. Everyone was surprised to hear that.

"You realize if you do that, then you and the rest of your family will no doubt be brought before a judge, right?" Carlota asked.

"I know that, but I'll also include the recordings Lisa kept of all the times we've earned Lincoln's forgiveness, in the hopes that it'll at least help OUR case," Luan replied.

"Ok, but what about proving how messed up the family really is?" Luna asked.

"I have tons of recordings saved to a cloud. I have every intention of using them to the fullest to expose us to the world," Luan replied. The Louds all looked with contemplation. On one hand, the ensuing trial that would occur IF Luan does go through with this could land Lori and Lynn somewhere where they can finally get off their high horses and accept responsibility for their actions. On the other hand, if the video idea backfires, then it would tear apart the family way beyond repair by the law. But with hardly any options left, what did they have to lose?

"Alright Luan, we'll take a chance with your idea, and go through with exposing the family's true colors. But we'll need to come up with a suitable defense if things do end up going south," Rita authorized Luan's plan.

"Not to worry, Rita. If push comes to shove, Lucius, Lilianna, and/or myself can act as your defense team. This way, we can keep the law off your backs as much as we possibly can, while also making sure those other three get what's coming to them," Stolas replied.

"We can be quite persuasive when we want to be," Lucius added.

"Thank you all, so much," Rita said, as the battle down below came to an end, with Armaldo going down to defeat.

"Armaldo is unable to battle, with winner is Gengar, which makes the Gym Leader, Yurei, the winner!" the referee declared.

"You're not weak. Not by a long shot. However, your Pokemon used a lot of wasted movements, which wore out it's stamina quickly. Train hard, and come back any time," Yurei said, delivering her final criticism.

"Thank you for the battle!" the challenger said, recalling Armaldo, before leaving.

"That Yurei girl is tough. Lincoln's going to have his work cut out for him," Zach commented.

"Does Lincoln have anything that's good against Ghost Types?" Blitz asked.

"Ghost Type Pokemon are weakest against Dark and other Ghost Type moves. So, in terms of offence, he would no doubt use his Alolan Meowth or Absol as his primary battlers. Furthermore, Ghost Type Pokemon are immune to Normal and Fighting Type Moves, but Normal Type Pokemon are also immune to Ghost Type attacks as well, so something like his Pidgeotto or Fearow would also work in terms of defense," Brock explained.

"But he only just recently got his Absol, and hasn't had a chance to train with it yet," Liam pointed out.

"True, but he does have some other Pokemon that have movesets that are good against Ghost Types. Like take Gawain, for instance. It knows Night Slash, a Dark Type Move, which is super effective on Ghost Pokemon," Brock replied.

"But I thought I heard Lincoln say he was trying to avoid using the same Pokemon on his team two gyms in a row, so we may not see Gawain," Misty pointed out. Just then, both hers and Brock's phones began ringing. Taking a look at the caller ID, both of them looked very surprised to see who was calling, "Master Lorelei? I thought I had called her after we got to Porta Vista?"

"And Master Bruno's calling as well. If you'll excuse us, we need to take these calls," Brock said, as he and Misty got up, and exited the battlefield.

"Who are 'Bruno' and 'Lorelei'?" Lucius asked.

"I seem to recall Lincoln mentioning Lorelei being a member of the Kanto Region Elite 4. Basically, the Big Four of all Pokemon Trainers for a specific region's League. Bruno must also be one as well," Lisa replied, as they continued talking.

Meanwhile, with Misty,

Misty was talking with Lorelei over the phone about some upcoming Team Rocket lynching operations that Pokemon League was cooking up, "So, they have a secret base in Celadon City?"

"Yes. According to Midori, the Celadon Game Corner is a front for an underground Pokemon trafficking operation. They've even been using the rare Pokemon they poach as prizes. Something like this cannot be allowed to continue. Once you and your friends are done in Maiden's Peak, I want you to head to Celadon City, posthaste, and join a group of trainers we've recruited to help storm the facility," Lorelei explained.

"Understood. I'll notify Lincoln and Brock as soon as I can," Misty replied.

"Please do, I… hold that thought," Lorelei said, as she sounded like she was talking to someone else on her end, "Yes? Yes? What?! Are you kidding me?! Ugh, just one thing after another. Ok, send some of our best trainers to Lavender Town, and await further orders," Lorelei then returned to Misty, "Ok, slight change of plans Misty. When you and your friends leave Maiden's Peak, head immediately south to Lavender Town. Our intel says that Team Rocket has taken control of the Pokemon Tower, and is using it as their own personal base."

"What?! That's horrible! The Pokemon Tower is a sacred place to everyone in Kanto!" Misty exclaimed.

"I understand your frustration. The Pokemon Tower has long since been a place for people to come and pay their respects to those Pokemon who have passed on. But Team Rocket isn't the only reason I want you to go there. Apparently, the locals have reported seeing an actual ghost there, not like Gastly or Haunter, but something else entirely," Lorelei replied. Now Misty was really concerned. Taking on Ghost Type Pokemon was one thing, but an actual ghost was something straight out of a horror film.

"You'd think something like that would scare off Team Rocket," Misty commented.

"We had hoped so too, but our sources tell us that they've acquired a Silph Scope, which identifies any ghostly apparitions as Ghost Type Pokemon," Lorelei replied.

"Well, hopefully, we can resolve whatever's going on at the Tower without much incident," Misty commented.

"We'll have squads of Police on standby once you're able to drive out Team Rocket," Lorelei replied.

"That would make things a lot easier. You should also have them use Pokemon that can use sleep inducing moves to make sure no grunts get away," Misty suggested.

"We anticipate that they will try to make a break for it, and have taken all necessary precautions," Lorelei replied.

"Ok. Well, if there's nothing else you want to discuss, I need to get going. Licnoln should be done with his Test of Character soon, and will be battling Yurei," Misty replied.

"Alright then. I hope to hear from you again soon," Lorelei replied, as she hung up.

"Well, this certainly will be interesting," Misty commented, as she headed to return to the stands, running into Brock again, "So, what did Bruno want?"

"He said he wanted me to come to the P-1 Grand Prix being held on Route 8. He wants to scout out more Trainers to help the Pokemon League with bringing down Team Rocket for good. What about Lorelei?" Brock asked.

"A couple of missions for us, as well. First, we need to head south to Lavender Town and clear out the Team Rocket squad that have taken control of the Pokemon Tower. Then, she wants us to head west to Celadon City for a sting operation at the local Game Corner, where Team Rocket is using Pokemon as prizes," Misty replied.

"Not only have they taken a sacred burial site like the Tower for their own, but they're treating Pokemon like prizes? That just makes my blood boil!" Brock commented.

"You aren't the only one, Brock," both trainers turned to see Yurei walking towards them, "I just got a call from Agatha. She wants my help in getting rid of Team Rocket from the Tower as well. So I'll be coming with you two and your friend to help out."

"Thanks, Yurei. We're going to need all the help we can get," Misty replied.

"It's my pleasure to do so. After all, the Pokemon Tower is special to Ghost Type Specialists like myself as well. But enough about me; what can you tell me about that Lincoln boy?" Yurei asked.

"Lincoln's an analytical trainer. He devises nearly foolproof strategies to suit the opponent he's battling," Brock explained.

"I see. I look forward to evaluating his strategy against me," Yurei said, as she returned to the battlefield.

"That girl is hard as ever to read," Misty commented.

"Definitely the opposite of Ghost Type Pokemon," Brock replied.

Back at the Loud House,

Needless to say, the past two days were anything but pleasant for the Louds that Rita had banished back to Royal Woods. Lori and Lynn felt a great sense of injustice for not getting back at Lincoln they way they believed he should've been punished. Lynn Sr. would've taken the opportunity to scold them for their unnecessary attack on their brother, but he was too shaken up from one of the last things Rita had said when she sent the three of them back to Royal Woods, "I can't believe Rita is really wanting a divorce! And for what? Doing the right thing by punishing Lincoln for lying?" he complained.

"Dad, we have more important things to worry about! Like how are we going to make Lincoln pay for all the trouble he's caused us!" Lori snapped harshly.

"That's right! I gave him an apology punch, but did he forgive me right then and there? NO! Stinkcoln is apparently too high and mighty to even consider doing something so brain dead simple that even HE couldn't screw up!" Lynn added.

"Girls, I understand your frustration, but there's really no need to apologize to your brother. He betrayed our trust, and is the sole reason our family is being torn apart. But I just don't know how we can teach him the errors of his way while we're stuck here," Lynn Sr. replied.

"This totally blows! I wish I still had my punching bag! Put a picture of Stinkcoln on it, and I would have a great way to vent my anger!" Lynn complained, stomping upstairs, and slamming the door, only for it to swing open again, revealing Lynn now had a look of wicked glee, "Guys, I think I have a way to get back at that nerdy little, forever virgin!"

"What do you have in mind, Junior?" Lynn Sr. asked. Lynn then held up a familiar book.

"What is that supposed to do?" Lori asked.

"Don't you get it, Lori? This is the spell book those monsters gave to Great Grandma Harriet!" Lynn replied.

"Junior, get rid of that thing! Who knows what kinds of evil it holds?" Lynn Sr. pleaded.

"Hear me out on this one, Dad! This is the book Lucy got that Karmic Curse from, right? Well, what's stopping us from casting the curse ourselves to give Stinkcoln a taste of what WE went through?" Lynn asked.

"Oh, I see where you're going with this!" Lori replied with a wicked smile.

"As much as I would rather not have anything more to do with Lucius or those other monsters, I suppose this is our only choice," Lynn Sr. relented.

"Alright, then we're all in agreement. Let's get started!" Lynn said, as she cracked open the book to the page.

Meanwhile, with Lincoln,

"Now, Spirit, use Rock Slide!" Lincoln called out, as he and Spirit were battling a Hex Maniac, who was notably much slenderer than Amber, who was using a Gastly. The battle was tough, but the Rock Slide Move was the last attack Gastly could take, as it was sent down to defeat, "Alright, we won!" Lincoln exclaimed, just as Spirit began glowing brightly, "Awesome! You're evolving Spirit!" and Spirit was in fact evolving. He became longer, and more streamlined, and grew a pair of wings as well. When the light dissipated, Spirit had become a yellow dragonfly like Pokemon with green wings and eyes.

"Vibrava has been registered to your Pokedex. Vibrava, the Vibration Pokemon, a Ground and Dragon Type. The ultrasonic waves generated by rubbing it's two wings together cause severe headaches. Notice: Spirit, upon evolving into Vibrava, has learned the move Dragon Breath," Dexter explained.

"Awesome!" Lincoln exclaimed.

"Congratulations on not only your Trapinch evolving, but you've also earned the right to collect the third and final skull," the Hex Maniac said, looking over at the pedestal where the last Crystal Skull was sitting.

"Sweet! Now I can challenge Yurei!" Lincoln exclaimed happily, as he retrieved the Skull, and exited the room, "Now, to get back to the start!" Lincoln said, as he and Pikachu made their way back to the front of the maze.

"So, what's your strategy against Yurei? This'll be your first time going up against a Ghost Type specialist," Pikachu asked.

"Not to worry, Pikachu. I've got a plan all figured out," Lincoln replied, as they arrived back at the start, where Amber was waiting.

"Ah, you're back. Have you collected all the skulls?" she asked.

"Yes, and here they are," Lincoln replied, holding the bag out to her. Amber reached out to take the bag, touching Lincoln's hand upon doing so. Her heart skipped a few beats by doing so.

'Why is this boy so damn handsome?' she thought, as she examined the skulls. She then nodded, "Yep. These are definitely the skulls you needed to find. You now have the right to battle Gym Leader Yurei. I shall show you to the battlefield," she said.

"Sweet!" Lincoln said, as he followed Amber. Lincoln blushed a bit, as he saw that Amber was swaying her wide hips back and forth, though he had no idea if she was doing this intentionally or not. Soon, they arrived at the battlefield. Looking up at the stands, he saw his friends and family sitting in the bleachers.

"So challenger, you've finally made it!" Yurei said, as she took her place in the Gym Leader's box, catching the attention of the audience.

"That's right! And I have no intention of leaving without a Gym Badge!" Lincoln replied, as he took his spot opposite of Yurei.

"Alright, the official Gym Battle between Lincoln Loud of Royal Woods, Michigan, and Yurei, the Maiden's Peak Gym Leader will now get underway! The Challenger is allowed to use six Pokemon, while the Gym Leader is only allowed three!" the referee declared.

"Wait, all six of my Pokemon?" Lincoln questioned.

"A three against six battle? Is something like that normal?" Bobby asked.

"Not especially. Some Gym Leaders set up rules like that to test everything a challenger has to offer," Brock replied.

"We won't keep time! The battle will only be concluded when all of either side's Pokemon are declared unable to continue! Since the challenger has at least four Gym Badges, he can now substitute his Pokemon as he chooses, while the Gym Leader cannot. If both sides are agreeable with these terms, then bring out your first Pokemon!" the referee declared.

"Alright, here's my first choice!" Yurei said, as she sent out a purple, reptilian like Pokemon with a skull like face. It was also wielding a bone.

"A bone? Could be an evolved form of Cubone," Lincoln theorized, as he and Tabby scanned the Pokemon.

"Marowak, Alola Form, the Bonekeeper Pokemon, a Fire and Ghost Type. This Pokemon sets the bone it carries on fire and dances through the night as a way to mourn its fallen allies," their Pokedex's explained.

"So, it's a regional form of Marowak," Tabby commented. Goh then typed something in on his Rotom Phone.

"Here's what a regular Marowak looks like," he said, showing the group.

"Marowak, the Bonekeeper Pokemon, Ground Type, and the evolved form of Cubone. This Pokemon overcame its sorrow to evolve into a new sturdy body. It wields a bone as a weapon, bravely facing down its opponents," his Rotom Phone explained.

"Ok, since Yurei's Marowak is a Fire and Ghost type, then I know who I'm starting off with! Go, Mesmer!" Lincoln then sent out Mesmer, who was ready to battle.

"Glad to be back out in the field again, Mr. Lincoln!" Mesmer said to Lincoln.

"I'm glad to hear that. We've got a real doozy of a battle ahead of us, so be ready for anything!" Lincoln said.

"The challenger has the first move! And BEGIN!" the referee declared.

"Ok Mesmer, lets start off by powering up your Water Type Moves! Use Rain Dance!"

"Alrighty then!" Mesmer replied, as he summoned forth a raincloud, which began pouring down rain.

"Ack! What is Lincoln doing?!" Lola screeched.

"Powering up Mesmer's Water type attacks. In rainy weather, Water Type moves are more powerful, while Fire Type moves become weaker," Brock explained.

"Alright, now use Water Pulse!" Lincoln called out. Mesmer then fired off Water Pulse, which was more powerful because of Rain Dance.

"Marowak, use Bone Rush to deflect it!" Yurei called out. Marowak began twirling it's bone around like a baton, blocking Water Pulse, "Now, use Swords Dance, then into Shadow Bone!" Marowak summoned spiritual swords that circled around it, causing it to glow red. Marowak then charged straight at Mesmer, it's bone glowing an eerie purple.

"Mesmer, quick! Use Water Gun!" Lincoln called out.

"Evade!" Yurei called out. Just as Mesmer fired off Water Gun, Marowak used its bone to leap out of the way, getting in close, and delivering a powerful blow to Mesmer, sending it down to defeat.

"Poliwhirl is unable to battle, the winner is Marowak!" the referee declared, as Lincoln recalled Mesmer.

"No worries, Mesmer. We'll just train up a bit more," Lincoln said, as he readied his next Pokeball, "Alright, time to see how well you battle after evolving! Go, Spirit!" he then sent out Spirit.

"Whoa, Spirit must've evolved during the Test of Character!" Misty commented. Carlota was the one to scan it.

"Vibrava, the Vibration Pokemon, a Ground and Dragon Type. Rather than use it's underdeveloped wings to fly, it rubs them together, creating ultrasonic soundwaves to attack enemies," her Pokedex explained.

"You'd think just by looking at it that it'd be a Bug Type," Lana commented.

"Ok Spirit, use Dig!" Lincoln called out. Spirit then quickly burrowed underground.

"Keep a sharp eye out, Marowak! Vibrava can come up at anywhere at any moment!" Yurei warned, causing Marowak to up it's guard.

"Alright, now use Sand Tomb!" and with that, a large, cone shaped pit began to form in the middle of the arena.

"Marowak, get away!" Yurei called out, but she was too late, as Marowak was soon swallowed up by sand trap.

"Alright, now use Dragon Breath!" Lincoln called out. Spirit emerged from inside the Sand Tomb, and fired Dragon Breath at the helpless Marowak.

"Marowak, use Iron Head!" Marowak was able to leap away from the Sand Tomb, and land a powerful Iron Head on Spirit, who still remained airborne. Marowak then landed back in the Sand Tomb trap.

"Spirit, use Rock Slide!" Lincoln called out. Spirit then launched Rock Slide at the still trapped Marowak.

"Marowak, use Bone Rush to knock them back!" Yurei called out. Marowak then began knocking back all the rocks that Spirit had flung it's way, even managed to knock some back at Spirit, sending it down to defeat.

"Vibrava is unable to battle! The winner is Marowak!" the referee declared, just as the Sand Tomb ended. Lincoln then recalled Spirit.

"That's two down for Lincoln's side. Is Yurei really that powerful a trainer?" Sam asked.

"In terms of ranking the Gym Leaders of Kanto, you could say that she's the Number Five Gym Leader," Brock replied.

"And what of the other four leaders then?" Moxxie asked.

"We call them the Big Four of Kanto's Gym Leaders. They're the four strongest Gym Leaders in Kanto. In order, they're the mysterious Viridian City Gym, who specializes in Ground Type Pokemon, Sabrina of the Saffron City's Psychic Type Gym, Natalie, the Dragon Type Gym Leader of Porta Vista, and Lt. Surge, the Electric Type specialist of Vermillion City," Brock replied.

"But Lincoln managed to win a badge from Surge, didn't he?" Milt asked.

"Yes, but back then, it was only because Surge was required to use his Three Badge Team. Now that Lincoln has Four Badges, he now has to face Yurei's Five Badge Team if he wants his fifth one," Misty replied.

"Alright, Riolu, go!" Lincoln then sent out Riolu.

"Wait, he's using Riolu in a Ghost Type Gym?!" Brock exclaimed.

"Maybe he has some kind of plan?" Rita said.

"Right. There must be some method to his madness," Elanor added.

"Sending in a Fighting Type Gym isn't really a smart move. Marowak, use Bone Rush!" Yurei called out. Marowak then charged straight at Riolu.

"Quick, use Double Team to dodge!" Lincoln called out. Afterimages began appearing all over the battlefield, causing Marowak to miss, "Now, use Foresight!" Riolu's eyes then began glowing red.

"I get it now! That's the method to his madness!" Brock exclaimed.

"What are you saying?" Stolas asked.

"See, Foresight enables the user to hit Ghost Type Pokemon with Normal and Fighting Type moves. And I'm pretty sure that Riolu still knows the move 'Counter', which deals back double the damage from any physical attacks," Brock explained.

"Marowak, use Shadow Bone!" Yurei called out.

"Counter it, Riolu!" Lincoln called out. Riolu allowed Shadow Bone to hit, and with a glowing, orange fist, struck back against Marowak, sending it down to defeat.

"Marowak is unable to battle, the winner is Riolu!" the referee declared, as Yurei recalled Marowak.

"Yeah, I won! Did you see me, Mr. Lincoln?! I won that round!" Riolu excitedly exclaimed.

"That's right you did! Now, let's try to keep up this momentum!" Lincoln called out to Riolu.

"Well, you sure sound confident. Just hope that you aren't being too overconfident from one win! I'm not one to give gym badges without a fight! Now, see how you handle this!" Yurei then sent out what appeared to be a floating, purple ghost like Pokemon that appeared to be wearing a witch's hat.

"Alright, never seen this Pokemon before," Lincoln commented, as he and Haiku scanned it.

"Mismagius, the Magical Pokemon, a Ghost type, and the evolved form of Misdreavus. Its cry sounds like an incantation. It is said that the cry may rarely be imbued with happiness-giving power," both Pokedex's explained.

"It looks just like a witch. Wicked," Lucy commented.

"Mismagius, use Mean Look!" Yurei called out. Mismagius then fired a dark ring at Riolu, enveloping the Emanation Pokemon a dark aura.

"Ok, so what's 'Mean Look'?" Rusty asked.

"Mean Look is a move that prevents you from swapping out Pokemon," Brock replied.

"But Lincoln's allowed to exchange Pokemon as per the rules!" Charlie exclaimed.

"True, but Mean Look is a legitimate move," Brock replied.

"Now, use Confuse Ray!" Mismagius then fired of an odd ray of light, that seemed to have confused Riolu.

"Now Riolu's totally confused!" Goh exclaimed.

"Is that bad?" Minister Taur asked.

"When a Pokemon is confused, they'll sometimes end up damaging themselves, rather than attacking an opponent. Returning to it's Pokeball can snap Riolu out of it, but with Mean Look, it can't," Brock replied.

"Riolu, snap out of it and use Foresight!" Lincoln called out, only for Riolu to smack itself.

"And checkmate! Mismagius, use Hex!" Yurei ordered. Mismagius then summoned a cloud of black mist.

"What's Hex?" Lincoln asked.

"When a Pokemon is suffering from a status ailment, like Confusion, Hex's power is doubled!" Yurei explained, as the black mist enveloped Riolu, sapping away all of the small Fighting Pokemon's energy, as it collapsed.

"Riolu is unable to battle, the winner is Mismagius!" the referee declared.

"Man, that was rough!" Lana commented.

"I never realized a Battle could be this back and forth," Stolas commented.

"Alright, time for you shine! Go, Gyarados!" Lincoln said, sending out his Gyarados. Lily whimpered, cuddling closer to Rita.

"Don't worry, Lily. I'm sure that scary monster is really friendly, especially if it's on Lincoln's side," Rita reassured.

"But Lincoln's hardly had a chance to train Gyarados. Is it really ready for a full-fledged Gym Battle?" Brock asked.

"Not to worry. During the festival, Lincoln won some kind of contest that was being held," Octavia replied.

Flashback, day two of the Festival,

While walking along with his future brides, Lincoln saw a raffle contest event of some kind that was going on, "Come on, come all! Try your luck and win our special prize, straight from the Galar Region!" the vendor said, as he displayed what appeared to be white and blue pieces of candy.

"Excuse me, but what are those?" Lincoln asked, approaching the vendor.

"Why my dear lad, these are Exp. Candies! Feed one to a Pokemon, and they'll gain experience based on the size of the candy you give them. And our special grand prize is three pieces of XL Exp Candies, which are great for increasing the levels of a Pokemon really quickly!" the vendor explained.

"Hmm, I would like to see how well Gyarados does in battle, but I haven't had a chance to train it yet," Lincoln mused.

"So, are you going to try?" Loona asked.

"I think I will," Lincoln replied, as he entered the contest.

End of Flashback,

"And I think he used some of the TRs that you guys had bought for him to teach his Pokemon all kinds of new moves as well," Lola added.

"Alright Gyarados, lets start of strong! Use Dark Pulse!" Lincoln called out. With a hiss and roar, Gyarados fired off Dark Pulse, straight at Mismagius.

"Destiny Bond," Yurei said, just as Dark Pulse hit, knocking out Mismagius in one hit. But a cloud of black mist began to emerge from Mismagius, and surround Gyarados. Gyarados began hissing and roaring violently.

"Gyarados, what's wrong!?" Lincoln called out.

"I DON'T KNOW! I… suddenly feel…. Out of gas," Gyarados replied, as it fell to the ground, completely out of energy.

"Both Gyarados and Mismagius are unable to battle!" the referee declared.

"What?! How can that be?!" Luan exclaimed.

"Gyarados was still fresh as a daisy!" Luna added.

"It's a move called Destiny Bond," Brock replied, causing all eyes to fall on him, "If the Pokemon that uses Destiny Bond is defeated, it takes the opponent down with it."

"But that would mean Yurei allowed Gyarados to knock out Mismagius!" Vaggie exclaimed, as both trainers recalled their Pokemon.

"Don't worry, Gyarados, you'll get another chance to shine, I promise," Lincoln said, as he turned to Pikachu, "You ready to go, buddy?"

"Like you even need to ask!" Pikachu replied, as he dashed out onto the battlefield.

"So, that's the Pikachu that's been helping you make the news in Kanto with that Volt Tail move. I need to be careful. Fortunately, I have my ace Pokemon, right here. Go, Gengar!" Yurei said, as she sent out Gengar, who cackled menacingly and floated all around the battlefield. Lincoln looked surprised to see yet another Pokemon from his dream. He took out his Pokedex to scan it.

"Gengar, the Shadow Pokemon, a Ghost and Poison Type, and the fully evolved form of Gastly. Apparently, it wishes for a travelling companion. Since it was once a human itself, it tries to make one by taking the lives of other humans. Stories are told around the world of Gengar who visit especially naughty children," Dexter explained.

"Oof, a bit daunting, but I still would like to add a Gengar to my team someday," Lincoln commented.

"You may have the first move!" Yurei called out.

"Thanks, I will! Pikachu, use Thunderbolt!" Lincoln called out. Pikachu fired off Thunderbolt, striking Gengar right on, "Sweet, now give it an Iron Tail!" Pikachu then charged at Gengar with his tail becoming metallic.

"Gengar, use Shadow Ball!" Yurei called out. Gengar then fired a Shadow Ball at Pikachu, stopping it's advance, "Now, Shadow Punch!" Gengar then punches the ground. In an instant, a fist shot out from Pikachu's shadow, striking the Mouse Pokemon.

"Whoa, what was that?" Akuma asked.

"Shadow Punch. It's a move that never misses," Sid replied.

"Alright Gengar, now use Toxic!" Gengar then fired off a ball of poison at Pikachu.

"Quick, use Dig and dodge!" Lincoln called. Pikachu was quick to burrow underground, narrowly avoiding Toxic, "Man, this is a lot harder than I originally thought."

"Pay attention, Gengar! Watch for where Pikachu comes up, then use Psychic!" Yurei called. Gengar watched the battlefield, and saw Pikachu erupt from the ground below. Gengar was quick to use Psychic, taking hold of Pikachu.

"Pikachu, use Thunderbolt! Try to get away!" Lincoln called out.

"Use Hypnosis!" Gengar then blasted Pikachu with a pointblank Hypnosis attack, causing Pikachu to fall asleep, "Now, Dream Eater!" Gengar let go of Pikachu, then sent a phantom image of itself right through Pikachu, causing Pikachu to lose the last of its stamina.

"Pikachu is unable to battle, the winner is Gengar!" the referee declared.

"No, Pikachu!" Lincoln immediately went to his partner's aid.

"Rough break. Now it's down to Lincoln's last Pokemon," Verosika commented, as Lincoln brought over Pikachu.

"Hey guys, can you watch over Pikachu for me?" Lincoln asked, handing over Pikachu.

"Of course," Charlie replied, taking Pikachu from her fiancé. Lincoln then returned to the challenger's box.

"That Pikachu's the one that uses that strange hybrid tail move, right? Then taking it out quick was the smart move on our part," Yurei said.

"Yeah, Pikachu's Volt Tail does pack a real wallop. But I don't need Volt Tail to win this! Pikachu's not the only powerhouse I have. Go, Lapis!" Lincoln called, as he sent out Lapis, who immediately went to tackle Lincoln with a loving hug, "Lapis, I like you a lot too, but right now, we've got a Gym Battle to take care of."

With her heart skipping a beat upon hearing that Lincoln liked her too, Lapis got off of her trainer, "Of course! I'll do my best for you!" and with that, Lapis returned to the battlefield.

"Your Gardevoir seems rather fond of you," Yurei commented.

"Yeah, Lapis has been with me ever since my first Gym Badge. And I'd say we're quite formidable. And to prove it, we should take this battle to the next level! Lapis?" Lincoln said, holding up his Mega Ring.

"I'm ready when you are, Lincoln!" Lapis replied. Lincoln then tapped his Key Stone, causing it to react with Lapis' Gardevoirite.

"Alright Lapis, Mega Evolve!" Lincoln called out, as Lapis began to Mega Evolve. In seconds, Lapis had now become Mega Gardevoir.

"Whoa, that's awesome!" Luna exclaimed.

"What did he say that was? 'Mega Evolution'?" Miu asked.

"That's right. Mega Evolution only occurs in battle, and it releases a Pokemon's hidden potential all at once. But it can only be accomplished when both trainer and Pokemon share an extremely close bond of trust with one another," Brock replied.

"Hmm, not often I get challengers that use Mega Evolution. In that case," Yurei said, as she whipped out a necklace with a Key Stone of her own, "I should respond to your full power with our own!" she said, as she clenched her Key Stone, which appeared to be reacting to a Mega Stone that Gengar was holding.

"Wait, she can use Mega Evolution too?!" Clyde exclaimed.

"Now Gengar, Mega Evolve!" Yurei said, as Gengar's full power was unleashed. A portion of its body began to sink into the ground and its arms and tail lengthened. The lower portions turned a more reddish-purple, and a third eye appeared on its forehead. The spikes on Gengar's back became more numerous and pointed, and additional spikes appear on its hands and tail. Its ears then grew considerably longer and tilt backward.

"Whoa, so that's Mega Gengar," Lincoln commented.

"Indeed. And now, to show you what we're made of! Gengar, use Shadow Ball!" Yurei called. Gengar then summoned a massive Shadow Ball, and fired it right at Lapis.

"Quick, use Protect!" Lincoln called. Lapis then summoned forth the protect barrier, blocking Shadow Ball, "Great! Now use Psybeam!" Lapis then fired off Psybeam, striking Gengar dead on.

"Nice! Since Gengar's a Poison Type, a Psychic Type move like Psybeam is super effective!" Goh commented.

"Gengar, use Shadow Sneak!" Yurei called. Gengar then sent its shadow behind Lapis, which began to strike at her.

"Quick, use Double Team and get away!" Lincoln called out. Afterimages of Lapis began appearing, as she had escaped from Shadow Sneak.

"Gengar, hone in on the real Gardevoir, and use Shadow Punch!" Yurei called out. Gengar then unleashed Shadow Punch, striking the real Lapis.

"Oh right, Shadow Punch never misses," Lincoln commented.

"Gengar, use Night Shade!" Gengar then fired off bolts of black lightning from its eyes.

"Quick Lapis, Protect!" Lapis then summoned up Protect, blocking Night Shade, "Alright, now use Thunderbolt!" Lapis then fired off Thunderbolt, striking Gengar. When the attack ended, sparks were seen flying off of Gengar.

"Gengar must've been paralyzed by Thunderbolt! Lincoln has to act now and take the win!" Brock commented.

"Not a chance! Gengar, use Night Shade!"

"Lapis, use Psybeam!" Both Pokemon unleashed their attacks, which collided with one another, causing a massive explosion, nearly sending everyone in the battle arena flying from where they were. The smoke began to clear, and Gengar had reverted back to normal, while Lapis was still in her Mega Form.

"Gengar is unable to battle! The winner is Gardevoir, and therefore, victory goes to Lincoln Loud, of Royal Woods, Michigan!" the referee declared.

"Alright! Nice work Lapis!" Lincoln exclaimed, as Lapis reverted back to normal, and collapsed into her trainer's arms.

"I'm glad that we were able to win, Lincoln, but that was a tough battle," Lapis replied.

"Yeah, it was. But thanks to you and the others, we managed to pull off a win," Lincoln replied. Yurei recalled Gengar, and approached Lincoln.

"You battled admirably, Lincoln Loud. Your flexibility in battle may very well be your greatest quality as a trainer. I look forward to seeing you compete in the Pokemon League once you qualify to enter," she said.

"Thanks, Yurei. I hope to enter," Lincoln replied.

"Indeed. Now, as per the rules of the Pokemon League association, I now present you with the spoils of your victory," Yurei said, as Amber brought over a tray with the prize Lincoln had been gunning for, the Maiden's Peak Badge, which was a white ghost with a yellowish green outline, and had the face similar to a jack-o-lantern, minus the nose. Right next to it was a greyish lavender TM, "This is the Phantom Badge, proof of your victory over me, as well as a TM for the move Shadow Ball, which can sometimes lower the opponent's Special Defenses," Yurei explained, as Lincoln accepted both items.

"Thank you very much, Yurei," Lincoln replied, just as his friends and family came over.

"Not too shabby, bro. So that's number five?" Luna asked.

"That's right. Three more badges and I'll be able to enter the Kanto Pokemon League," Lincoln replied, as he turned to the disguised monster royals, "So, now that you've all seen a Pokemon Battle in person, what'd you think?"

"I still find the concept of making creatures like these fight a bit in poor taste, but it was clear that both yours and Yurei's Pokemon were all enjoying themselves," Charlie replied.

"And you're definitely nothing like those loud mouths said you were. Like Yurei said, flexibility is always a good thing," Blitz added.

"So, where are you planning to go now?" Rita asked.

"Haven't fully decided yet. Wherever the closest gym is, I guess," Lincoln replied. Brock, Misty, and Yurei's expressions turned gravely serious.

"In that case, we should try heading to Celadon City next. But before we do that, we have a little side quest to do in Lavender Town first," Misty stated.

"A side quest? What for?" Lincoln asked.

"See, I got a call from Lorelei. Apparently, Team Rocket's at it again. This time, they've taken the Pokemon Tower and are using it as their base," Misty replied.

"What's the Pokemon Tower?" Wolfgang asked.

"It's a sacred site in Kanto, where Pokemon who have passed on are taken to be buried. But as Misty said, Team Rocket have taken control of the Tower, and are prevent people from entering, even to pay their respects," Yurei explained.

"That's horrible!" Stolas exclaimed.

"To think that there are humans out there that are truly that despicable, desecrating the graves of the dead," Lucius added.

"Which is why both Lorelei and Agatha have called upon us to go join a group of trainers to drive out Team Rocket, and take back the Tower, for the good of not only Lavender Town, but all of Kanto as well," Misty replied.

"But there is one other problem besides Team Rocket. See, the Tower is home to a plethora of Ghost Type Pokemon, but according to Agatha, there's been sightings of an actual ghost haunting the upper levels," Yurei added.

"A for real ghost?!" Sam exclaimed.

"Well, we can't just sit back and let Team Rocket do whatever they want! We have to go and stop them!" Polly exclaimed.

"That might not be such a good idea, Polly. For two reasons," Lincoln pointed out.

"And those reasons are?" Polly asked.

"One: You guys are still new to Pokemon Training, and Team Rocket is extremely dangerous, especially with how they've been upgraded to 'terrorist' status. And two: Getting involved would no doubt make you guys targets of their treachery, the same way I became their target since Viridian City," Lincoln explained.

"That's right! Plus, there's no telling what they'd do if they were to head to Royal Woods," Lisa added.

"You mean… our families would be…?" Giggles asked.

"More than likely. Therefore, you guys need to stay under the radar as much as possible, for your sakes, as well as the sakes of your families," Lincoln replied.

"Well, alright Lincoln. If you think it's the only way to keep our families safe, then we'll take your suggestion," Ronnie Anne replied.

"But are you really going to face Team Rocket? I mean, they tried to sink you on a cruise ship!" Rita asked.

"We have to, Mom. After all, someone's got to stand up to evil like them. And you don't have to worry. I'm not alone in this fight," Lincoln replied.

"He's right, Mrs. Loud. He has us to back him up," Brock added.

"I still don't like it, but I know this is for the betterment of Kanto. Just please be careful out there," Rita pleaded to her son.

"Don't worry Mom, I will be. I'll call once we finish clearing out Team Rocket," Lincoln replied.

"But before we head out, we need to go and heal up our Pokemon. We'll need them in full fighting strength if we want to stand a chance of winning the upcoming battle," Yurei suggested.

"That's right! Pikachu, Lapis, and the others must be wiped out from all that battling," Lincoln said, as he recalled Lapis.

"Round up all the Gym Trainers, and tell them to get ready to mobilize! As soon as I get back, we make our way to Lavender Town," Yurei said to Amber and Chad.

"YES, YUREI!" the two of them said, as they exited the battlefield arena. Yurei then left herself.

"I need to get back to the Pokemon Center too," Lincoln said, as he and the others left them gym themselves.

Later, at the Pokemon Center,

Lincoln was sitting patiently in the lobby with the others as he waited for his Pokemon to finish healing, "Lincoln, if you don't mind my asking, how did you and your 'Lapis' or 'Gardevoir' or whatever its called do that whole 'Mega Evolution' thing?" Stolas asked.

"It's because of this," Lincoln replied, as he held up his Mega Ring, "This Mega Ring has a Key Stone embedded in it. When I tap it, it reacts to a Mega Stone that the Pokemon holds, which allows it to Mega Evolve. But the Pokemon that does Mega Evolve has to be holding the corresponding Mega Stone to its species. In Lapis' case, since she's a Gardevoir, she needs to be holding a Gardevoirite. Absol and Mawile were holding Mega Stones themselves when I got them."

"So, how many do you have so far?" Loona asked.

"Uh, let me think… I have Mega Stones for Beedrill, Lucario, Gardevoir, Charizard, Metagross, Lopunny, and now Mawile and Absol. That makes eight Mega Stones in total," Lincoln replied.

"Wicked! Can't wait to see what the others look like!" Luna commented.

"Nor can I, but there's one more, and incredibly important component that I need along side both stones. And that's a powerful bond of trust between me and my Pokemon. Without it, neither myself nor any of my Mega Evolved Pokemon will be able to unleash their full power completely," Lincoln explained.

"With how powerful the process makes your Pokemon, I don't doubt it," Lisa commented. Just then, the Pokemon Center chime went off.

"Lincoln Loud? I'm happy to say that all of your Pokemon are back to full health," Nurse Joy said, as Chansey wheeled out a stretcher with Pikachu, and a tray containing the rest of Lincoln's Pokeballs on it.

"Thank you, Nurse Joy," Lincoln said, as he retrieved his Pokeballs, "How you feeling, Pikachu?"

"Feeling refreshed!" Pikachu exclaimed, as he climbed up onto Lincoln's shoulder.

"That's good to hear," Lincoln replied, as his expression turned serious.

"Is something wrong, Lincoln?" Pikachu asked.

"Team Rocket is up to their old tricks again. This time, they've taken a burial tower in Lavender Town for their own selfish purposes, and are barring people from entering. We've been asked to go and flush them out," Lincoln replied. Pikachu was beside himself. Poaching and trafficking Pokemon, acts of terrorism, and just being a menace to society was one thing, but to desecrate the graves of the dead? This time, Team Rocket has gone too far!

"Are we heading to Lavender Town now?" Pikachu asked.

"Indeed, we are. Just as soon as Yurei and the other Gym Trainers collect their Pokemon, we'll head out," Lincoln replied. Just then, Amber approached.

"Lincoln… Yurei and the others are almost done getting their Pokemon topped off. As soon as they finish, we'll head out to Lavender Town," the super thicc Hex Maniac said.

"Alright. In the meantime, I should set up a real powerhouse team," Lincoln replied, as he began using the Pokemon Box Link to exchange his Pokemon.

"As much as we'd love to stay and see you off to Lavender Town, we need to get back to Cerise Labs and give our report to the Professor," Ronnie Anne said to Lincoln.

"And we need to get back home to Royal Woods. I need to get the paperwork ready for the divorce, and try to figure out a suitable punishment for Lori and Lynn," Rita added.

"I understand, guys. I'll call as soon as I can," Lincoln replied.

"Please do, and please be careful," Rita pleaded.

"I will Mom," Lincoln replied, as he was approached by Yurei.

"We're ready to get going. I'm having someone bring a shuttle bus to transport everyone to Lavender Town," she said.

"Ok. We'll be there momentarily," Lincoln replied. Yurei nodded, and went to join her Gym Trainers, as Lincoln turned back to his family and friends, "Well guys, I guess I'll be seeing you later then."

"Indeed. But one thing before we do leave," Lilianna said, as she pulled out what appeared to be an amulet, "Just something to help you keep in touch with the girls whenever you have dates with them. Not only that, but it will allow you to revisit any location you've previously visited," she explained.

"Wow, thank you so much, your majesty. This'll make backtracking to important places around Kanto super convenient," Lincoln commented, as he wrapped the straps on the amulet around his neck, and tucked it in his shirt, "So, how exactly do I call your daughters and revisit places I've been?"

"To call the girls, just tap one of the rings on your arm. Each of them corresponds with one of the princesses. And to summon them, just rub the rings ever so slightly, and they'll appear. Once you've had your date, simply rub the ring again to send them back. As for visiting places you've been to, simply think about them, and focus those thoughts into the amulet. It'll open a portal to the desired place," Lilianna explained.

"Ok, that sounds easy enough to understand," Lincoln commented, as he turned to the princesses, "Well, hopefully once we get to Celadon City, I'll be able to call on you ladies for our first actual date."

"We're looking forward to it. Though don't be afraid to call me by myself for a little one-on-one," Verosika flirted, only to get pulled back by the ear by Charlie.

"You need a chaperone more than any of us!" she commented.

'Looks like Verosika is the succubus version of Brock,' Lincoln thought.

"But we'll keep in mind your wishes to only call on two to three of us at a time. Just be sure to remember what we told you about the Full Moon," Octavia warned.

"How Loona and Milt shouldn't be called upon those nights, right?" Lincoln asked.

"Precisely," the disguised owl demoness replied.

"Lincoln! Misty! Brock! The bus is here!" Yurei called to them.

"Well, I guess this is goodbye for now," Lincoln said to them.

"We'll talk again soon, bro," Luna replied.

"Now get out there and stop those Team Rocket meanies!" Lola proclaimed.

"Already one step ahead of you. You guys be careful heading home yourselves," Lincoln said to the others.

"We will, Linkey. I'm hoping we'll be able to meet up again in the near future," Leni said, as they all exited the Pokemon Center. Lincoln and his two companions went off in one direction towards a waiting shuttle bus. Lincoln shared one last wave to his family and friends before getting on the bus.

"The train to Vermillion City should get us there by nightfall," Goh commented, looking at his Rotom Phone.

"C'mon Leni, we'll at least see you and the others to the station," Rita said, as they began walking towards the station.

Meanwhile, back at the Loud House,

Lori and both Lynns were in the living room, getting ready to cast the Karmic Misfortune Curse themselves. Inside the spell circle, there were three pictures of each of them, "Alright, you both ready?" Lori asked.

"I still don't know about this, girls. I mean, punishing your brother is one thing, but don't you think that actually cursing him forever with real bad luck is going just a bit too far?" Lynn Sr. asked, trying to dissuade his daughters from going through with this plan of theirs. Unfortunately, he only got a pair of headshakes in response.

"Not a chance, Dad! Stinkcoln has caused trouble for us one time too many. It's high time he learned just how cruel and unforgiving the world actually is," Lynn retorted.

"And besides, he needs to be knocked down a peg from thinking that he actually has any sort of power in this family," Lori added.

"Well, alright," Lynn Sr. replied, as they began the ritual.

"Upon the guilty, I cast this curse on thee to avenge the wronged. As you have brought misfortune on others, you too, shall know of their plight. Never again will fortune smile down upon you until you pay back your karmic dues and earn their forgiveness. May the punishments cast upon thee be what karma deems appropriate! Malus Fortuna!" the three of them chanted. As they did, the room began to darken, the flames on the candles turned black, and a black mist began to form in the middle of the spell circle. Upon completing the chant, the mist erupted, and took the form of Infelicis.

"Summoned again so soon? Wonder who's the unlucky soul to get the curse this time," he commented, as he took a look at the pictures, then down at the three Louds who had summoned him, "Three clients? That doesn't normally happen."

Team Updates:

Lincoln:

Trapinch (Spirit) Vibrava (Newly evolved)