Author's Note: Alright I decided to post this up as an early birthday gift to my readers and hope you guys will enjoy this and that all I want is you to review and let me know what you think, so enjoy!
Disclaimer: Blue Kitsune does not own Fairy Tail or Pokemon
Chapter 8 - Second Times the Charm and Meeting the Real Deal!
The day had finally arrived - the much anticipated rematch between Toshi and the Gym Leader, Brock. After a quick shower and change into fresh clothes, Ashi and Misty met up with Toshi and the boys for breakfast in the canteen before heading to the gym. The atmosphere was thick with tension as they sat down to eat, the enticing smell of pancakes and bacon filling their senses. Nerves were evident in Toshi's demeanor as he apprehensively picked at his food, unable to focus on anything other than the upcoming match. His hands trembled as he sipped on orange juice, trying to calm his apprehensiveness. Ashi could see the worry etched on her brother's face and offered words of reassurance, "Believe in yourself, you've got this."
Misty chimed in with practical advice, "Make sure you eat enough to keep your energy up. You don't want to face this challenge on an empty stomach." With their support, Toshi managed to eat three full breakfast meals - more than usual. But it was clear that he was still feeling anxious as they made their way through town towards the gym.
As they walked, Toshi chatted with Ashi while Sora and Aratiri eagerly trotted beside them, ready for battle. The group could feel the mounting tension and anticipation as they approached the formidable gym; each step bringing them closer to the ultimate showdown. Gazing at Toshi's determined expression, Ashi couldn't help but feel proud of her brother. He took a deep breath before pushing open the doors to face Brock once again. "I'm back!" he declared confidently.
Brock stepped forward upon seeing who stood at the entrance. "Haven't you learned your lesson yet?" he taunted with a cocky smirk.
Toshi snarled with his fist raised toward the gym leader, "We're ready for you this time, Brock!" Charmander growled from his trainer's side, flames flickering in his eyes. "Char!" But Brock just smirked, clearly not intimidated by the younger boy's confidence. As the rest of the group made their way onto the overhead ramp to get a better view of the arena below, Ashi leaned over the guardrail, her fingers tightly gripping the metal bars. Her eyes were fixed on the two boys facing each other, their gazes locked in fierce determination and anticipation for the upcoming battle.
She noticed that they weren't the only ones here to watch today's match as she caught a glimpse of a familiar bluenette standing just a few feet away from their group. She was glad to see a friendly face among the crowd and gave Steven a nod of thanks as he smiled reassuringly in her direction. Sora and Aratiri also took notice of Steven and exchanged questioning looks, wondering who this person was. They silently promised to keep an eye on him just in case.
The referee wasted no time in starting the match and Brock chose his first Pokemon - Geodude. Toshi confidently sent out his Butterfree, despite its disadvantage against rock types. "He knows that flying bug types are at a disadvantage, right?" Misty whispered to Ashi with a raised eyebrow.
"Yeah, but we talked about it," Ashi replied confidently. "He has a plan." The atmosphere crackled with tension as the two trainers faced off, sizing each other up. "Use Sleep Powder, Butterfree!" Toshi commanded confidently, his voice betraying none of his nerves. In response, Butterfree unleashed a fine powder that swirled through the air, aiming to lull Geodude into a deep sleep.
Brock's eyes narrowed as he anticipated the move. "Geodude, dodge and counter with Rock Throw!" Geodude swiftly avoided the attack and retaliated with a barrage of sharp rocks. Butterfree deftly dodged the incoming projectiles, earning a proud grin from Toshi. "Now, use Confusion!" he called out, determination flashing in his eyes. With dazzling mid-air maneuvers, Butterfree launched a powerful Confusion attack towards Geodude. The Gym Leader's Pokemon staggered under the psychic onslaught.
Brock remained calm and collected as he assessed the situation. "Geodude, focus! Use Rock Polish to sharpen your speed and evade the Confusion attack!" Geodude obeyed its trainer's command, its rocky form gleaming as it polished itself with rapid movements. Its increased speed allowed it to dodge the psychic waves and close in on Butterfree.
Toshi's heart raced as he watched the intense battle unfold before him. Every decision counted, every move crucial in this rematch. "Butterfree, stay agile! Use Gust to create a strong wind barrier!" Butterfree beat its delicate wings rapidly, generating a powerful gust surrounding it. However, Ashi was surprised when Steven appeared beside her and voiced his opinion on the strategy being used, "I don't know if that was a wise decision to use in this predicament."
"Then what should he have done instead?" Ashi whispered urgently to Steven while still trying to keep an eye on the match. "He should have gone for a more direct attack, like Psychic or Silver Wind," Steven replied quietly.
Toshi continued to focus on the battle, unaware of the conversation happening in the overhead. As Geodude's Rock Polish-enhanced speed broke through Butterfree's Gust barrier, it launched a devastating Rock Throw at Butterfree. The Pokemon stumbled backward from the impact, but Toshi's voice rang out with unwavering determination. "Butterfree, shake it off! Show them your Silver Wind attack!"
The Butterfree fluttered into the air, its delicate wings surrounded by a mystical glow as it unleashed a flurry of shimmering silver energy towards Geodude. The Gym Leader watched closely, a hint of surprise flickering across his otherwise composed expression. The Silver Wind attack struck Geodude with unexpected force, causing it to stumble back and visibly weaken under the super effective move. Sensing his opportunity, Toshi urged his Pokemon forward. "Now, follow up with Sleep Powder once more!"
Butterfree didn't hesitate, releasing another cloud of sleep-inducing powder towards the disoriented Geodude. The Gym Leader's Pokemon fought against the drowsiness with all its might but ultimately succumbed to sleep. As Toshi watched his opponent's first Pokemon succumb to slumber, Ashi couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern. She knew Brock was saving his strongest Pokemon for last and wondered if Toshi could finally defeat him this time around.
Brock's expression remained inscrutable as he withdrew Geodude and sent out his next Pokemon. "Onix, it's your turn!" The colossal rock snake emerged onto the battlefield, its imposing form casting a seemingly impervious shadow over Butterfree. Toshi's heart raced with a mix of excitement and nervousness, but he kept a confident mask in place. "Butterfree, you've done well so far. Let's give it all we've got! Use Confusion now!"
Butterfree released another surge of swirling psychic energy towards Onix, its vibrant patterns dancing around the rock serpent like a hypnotic spell. But the formidable Pokemon remained unfazed by the attack, its piercing gaze fixed on its opponent as it braced itself against the psychic onslaught. "Onix, use Bind!" Brock commanded and Onix wasted no time in obeying its trainer's order. Its massive body coiled and lunged towards Butterfree, attempting to crush the bug type in its powerful grip.
"Butterfree, dodge it!" Toshi urged. With lightning-fast reflexes, Butterfree fluttered nimbly out of harm's way, narrowly avoiding Onix's crushing Bind attack. Toshi's mind raced as he strategized his next move, understanding that he needed to outmaneuver the mighty rock serpent in order to secure victory.
"Toshi really needs to come up with something big," Misty remarked from her spot beside Ashi, who couldn't help but agree. She felt a reassuring hand on her shoulder and turned to see Leon standing behind her with a comforting smile.
"Don't worry Ashi, I have faith in Toshi. He's going to pull through," the Galar Monarch reassured her before turning his attention back to the battle. Raihan, who was also watching from the sidelines, noticed the familiar stranger next to Ashi but decided now wasn't the time to ask questions, not when Toshi's battle was growing more intense by the minute.
As the spectators held their breath and the coaches silently strategized, all eyes were fixated on the two trainers locked in fierce competition on the battlefield. Ashi observed as Toshi tried to keep Butterfree nimble and elusive, knowing that its smaller size and agility could work to their advantage. But despite using Stun Spore and Sleep Powder, Onix seemed unaffected by their attacks.
As Butterfree narrowly dodged another Bind attack, Toshi realized he needed to change tactics. Direct attacks weren't effective against Onix's sturdy rock body, so he had to think outside of the box. "He needs a new plan...Butterfree's starting to tire from all this dodging..." Raihan noted, seeing that Brock had also caught onto this and was preparing for his next move.
"Onix, use Rock Slide!" Brock commanded with unwavering determination. Onix reared back, causing a barrage of massive boulders to rain down towards Butterfree. Toshi's heart raced as he watched the deadly rocks hurtling towards his Pokemon. In a split second decision, he shouted, "Butterfree, create a whirlwind with Gust!"
Butterfree flapped its wings with all its might, generating a powerful gust of wind that swirled around the battlefield. The wind caught some of the falling boulders, deflecting them away from Butterfree while others crashed harmlessly around it. Brock's expression remained stoic as he observed the outcome of his attack. Onix glared down at Butterfree, ready for its next command. "Bind again, Onix!" Brock called out.
With a surge of determination, Onix lunged forward with renewed vigor, its massive body aimed to ensnare the weakened Butterfree. Toshi's heart raced as he knew he had to act quickly to save his beloved Pokemon. "Butterfree, use your agility to evade and counter with Silver Wind!" Toshi's urgent command echoed through the battlefield.
But before Butterfree could even react, Onix was already closing in, its powerful bind tightly constricting the struggling Butterfree. Memories flooded Toshi's mind of a similar situation with his Charmander, and he couldn't bear to see his partner go through the same pain. "CHAR CHAR!" Toshi's fire-type Pokemon roared in solidarity, determined not to give up on its teammate.
Even their friends Sora and Aratiri joined in, shouting their own words of encouragement from the sidelines. Butterfree heard their cries and let out a resolute cry of its own, summoning all of its strength to break free from Onix's grasp. Toshi clenched his fists in desperation, searching for a way to turn the tide of the battle. But then, a spark of inspiration hit him. Remembering all the hours of training and the special bond he shared with Butterfree, Toshi knew exactly what to do. "Butterfree, use Psybeam point blank!"
With every ounce of energy it had left, Butterfree unleashed a brilliant beam of multicolored light directly at Onix's face, catching the rock snake off guard. The powerful attack struck true, causing Onix to recoil in pain and releasing Butterfree from its hold. Toshi's chest swelled with pride and worry as he recalled his exhausted Pokemon back into its Pokeball. "You did great out there, now rest up," he said softly before turning to his loyal Charmander.
With a nod from Charmander, Toshi knew it was time for retribution. The battlefield fell silent as Toshi assessed the situation, knowing that the tide of the battle had shifted but victory was still uncertain. Brock's Onix stood tall and strong, its rocky exterior showing signs of wear from Butterfree's powerful Psybeam attack. But Toshi refused to back down, his determination burning bright in his eyes as he faced off against the Gym Leader. Brock couldn't help but admire Toshi's tenacity and strategic prowess.
"Impressive, I underestimated you," Brock said with a hint of respect before turning his attention back to the battle at hand. "Now it's time to show you what a real trainer is capable of! Onix, use Stone Edge!" The massive rock snake summoned sharp stones from the ground and launched them towards Charmander with deadly precision. But Charmander stood its ground, flames flickering with a fierce determination in its eyes.
Toshi's heart raced as he watched the barrage of sharp stones hurtling towards his Pokemon. In a split second decision, he shouted, "Charmander, use Flame Burst to melt through the stones!" With a resounding cry, Charmander unleashed a searing burst of flames that engulfed the incoming projectiles. The intense heat melted the stones, turning them into harmless molten debris that scattered around Charmander. Unscathed and determined as ever, Charmander stood ready to continue the battle. Victory was within reach.
Brock's expression tensed as he observed Charmander's quick thinking and skilled execution of the counterattack. The Gym Leader knew that Toshi was far from being an ordinary Trainer; he possessed a deep bond with his Pokemon and a strategic mind that could rival even the most seasoned opponents.
"Now, Charmander, let's—" Before Toshi could give any further commands, he suddenly felt something gripping his arms and legs. "Hey, what is going on?" Even Ashi and her friends were surprised when a group of children appeared out of nowhere and latched onto Toshi, disrupting the match itself. "Let me go!" Toshi struggled against their hold, while Brock and Onix looked to him for guidance.
"You leave our Onix alone, you big bully!" One of the older kids exclaimed with determination etched on his face, while the others continued to hold onto Toshi with surprisingly strong grips. Ashi and her friends watched in shock as this unexpected turn of events unfolded before them. "Hey let go of me!" The doors were suddenly thrown open, and a familiar gruff voice could be heard shouting out names.
"Salvadore, Yolanda, Forrest, Tommy, Cindy, Suzie, Timmy, Billy, and Tilly!" Everyone turned their attention to the man standing in the doorway – Flint – who was surprisingly without his usual scruffy beard and beanie. Instead, he wore a pink apron covered in flour that made him look like a ghost. "Did you kids really have to throw me into the pantry while I was making lunch?" He grumbled as he shook his head, sending white powder flying everywhere.
Ashi and her friends couldn't help but gawk at the sight of Flint's unusual appearance, but they also couldn't ignore the uncanny resemblance between him and Brock...and the rest of the kids currently hanging off of Toshi. It was clear they were all family. "Come on, kids." Flint was busy trying to pry off the youngest child who was clinging onto Toshi's neck. "What were you thinking? I've told you before, when it comes to Gym matches, you can't interfere. No one is supposed to be within range except for the referees!"
"Yeah, coming from the guy in the frilly pink apron," Raihan muttered under his breath, but no one paid him any attention. The children slowly released their hold on Toshi, looking sheepish under Flint's stern gaze. Toshi straightened himself, a mix of relief and confusion evident on his face as he tried to process the unexpected interruption. Ashi and her friends exchanged glances, unsure of what to make of this chaotic scene.
Finally managing to wrangle all the kids away from Toshi, Flint turned to him with a wry smile. "Sorry about that, they tend to get a bit...overzealous when it comes to protecting their Brother's Pokemon." He chuckled, brushing off some flour from his apron. "Uhhh okay." Toshi said, still trying to process the unexpected interruption.
"But dad," one of the boys, Forrest chimed in, "We were just worried about Onix after what happened last time!" The others nodded in agreement, chiming in with similar sentiments. "We were scared he might hurt him like that big meanie did!" Suzie added as she fiddled with the hem of her skirt. Flint's face softened as he looked at his children, knowing that they meant well but had still made a mistake in intercepting the match. "We'll have to tell your mother about this when she gets back," he said gently.
The kids nodded in understanding as Flint turned to Toshi. "Just give us a second to get out of your hair and you can continue without any further delays."
"Sure thing," Toshi replied with relief, eager to put the incident behind them. As Flint herded his children up the ramp, Ashi and the others returned to their seats. Toshi then turned back to Brock, who was waiting for him to resume the battle. "So where were we?" Toshi asked, ready to continue. "Oh right, Charmander, let's go!"
"This certainly adds an unexpected twist," Raihan remarked as he and Leon saw Flint's family joining them on the sidelines. The older man seemed to be juggling his attention between the current match and his children, making sure there were no more disruptions. "Yeah, I apologize again for the interruption," Flint said apologetically. "You have to understand, my kids got agitated when I told them about another challenger coming to fight Brock's team. And after what the last trainer did..." He trailed off with a grimace.
Onix had taken quite a beating from the previous trainer, who turned out to be an obnoxious kid from Pallet Town bragging about defeating someone called "Toffy". Ashi overheard one of the other boys, Salvatore, speaking up. "Yeah, that kid was such a pain in the—" Flint coughed loudly, indicating for Salvatore not to swear in front of everyone. "—uhh...butt," he corrected himself sheepishly. "Even his snotty cheerleaders were distracting the match so much that big brother had a hard time focusing."
The twin boys, Tommy and Timmy also had to make their own comments about it as well, while finishing each other's sentence. "Yeah, and while I know having an audience is normal, those girls were just...ugh,"
"If Mom were here, she wouldn't let them interfere like that."
"Exactly!" One of the girls agreed, understanding their frustration. "He should consider himself lucky that Brock was only subbing. If he had gone up against the real gym leader, he would have been sorry!" The kids nodded in agreement before turning their attention back to the match, eager to see who would come out on top.
"Did this challenger happen to mention being the Professor's grandson from Pallet Town?" The Dragonslayer asked, her suspicions confirmed when she sees them nod in reply to her question and Flint couldn't help asking, "I take it you know this kid?"
"Unfortunately," Ashi replied with a sigh. "We lived in the same town and he used to bully my brother at school, just for the fun of it."
"I'm sorry to hear that," Flint offered his condolences to her for having to deal with such a troublesome brat like Gary. Then they returned their focus to the intense battle unfolding before them.
Toshi's eyes were locked on his Charmander as it expertly dodged Onix's attacks. With precise commands, Toshi had Charmander unleash powerful Ember and Flamethrower attacks, causing Onix to roar in pain and frustration. Brock watched intently, knowing he couldn't take Toshi lightly. He called out Onix's next move, "Let's not waste any more time, use Rock Slide!"
The ground shook as Onix unleashed a torrent of rocks towards Charmander, who agilely dodged most of them but still sustained some injuries. Thinking quickly, Toshi commanded Charmander to counter with a scorching Flamethrower attack. Brock acknowledged Toshi's strategic thinking with respect, but wasn't about to give up easily. He ordered Onix to use Sand Tomb, trapping Charmander in a vortex of abrasive sand and rocks.
Toshi gritted his teeth in concern as he saw Charmander struggle within the trap, but he knew his Pokemon wouldn't give up without a fight. "Hang in there! Use Ember to break free!" he urged. Charmander summoned all its strength and unleashed a fierce barrage of embers which dissipated the Sand Tomb and freed itself from the confines.
"It looks like this battle could go either way," Raihan noted, seeing the two Pokemon standing their ground in spite of their exhaustion. Leon, standing beside Ashi, chimed in with his own observation. "It seems like both trainers are willing to do whatever it takes to win."
Toshi could feel Charmander's fiery determination radiating off its body, mirroring his own unwavering spirit. The flames on its tail danced brightly, a symbol of their shared passion and determination to win this battle. Brock couldn't help but smile at Toshi's quick thinking and resilience. "Your Charmander is truly impressive," Brock praised with respect laced in his voice. "But the battle is far from over. Onix, show them your might with Rock Tomb!"
Onix unleashed a deafening growl as it summoned towering boulders from the ground, creating a formidable barrier that threatened to trap Charmander. Toshi knew they needed to act quickly and pulled out their secret weapon. "Now's our chance, Charmander! Use Dragon Breath!" he commanded.
With determined eyes, Charmander gathered its energy and released a powerful blast of draconic energy that crackled and swirled towards the oncoming Rock Tomb. The two forces collided in a spectacular explosion of dust and debris that left everyone in awe. As the dust settled, Charmander stood strong amidst the aftermath while Onix showed signs of exhaustion from the intense battle. Brock's expression shifted from surprise to admiration as he locked eyes with Toshi, silently acknowledging each other's strength and determination.
Meanwhile, Flint watched with bated breath, feeling a mix of pride and anxiety for his friend and the challenger. This was no longer just a test of skill; it had become a clash of passion and willpower. Onix let out another fierce growl, shaking off the remnants of the explosion as it glared at Charmander with newfound respect. Brock's unwavering determination echoed through the gym. "Let's finish this with our signature move - Rock Tomb Crush!"
The ground shook as Onix summoned an even larger barrage of boulders, ready to crush Charmander with unstoppable force. But Toshi knew this was their chance to unleash their ultimate move. "Charmander, use Dragon Rush!" he yelled, remembering the training he received from Raihan who helped him unlock Charmander's egg move.
With a burst of energy, Charmander surged forward like a blazing comet, surrounded by swirling draconic power. The fiery lizard Pokemon streaked towards the oncoming avalanche of rocks, leaving sparks in its wake. The collision was epic, causing an explosion of light and sound that shook the entire gym. The air crackled with electricity as Charmander's Dragon Rush clashed with the massive boulders, resulting in a spectacle of power and determination that left everyone breathless.
The dust began to settle as the blinding light faded, and the crowd leaned forward in anticipation. Charmander stood tall amidst the rubble, victorious, its flames reflecting the pride and exhaustion it felt. Toshi rushed to his loyal friend's side as Onix lay unconscious on the ground. It was clear that Toshi had won against Brock in their gym battle.
Brock's expression changed from determination to admiration as he returned his fainted Onix. He walked over to Toshi with respect in his eyes and a smile on his face. "Well done, Toshi. You and Charmander fought with incredible spirit and skill. You have earned the Boulder Badge," he said, presenting Toshi with the gleaming badge.
Toshi accepted the badge with gratitude, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over him. As he looked around at the cheering crowd, he knew that this was just the beginning of his journey as a Pokémon Trainer. He smiled proudly at Charmander, who chirped happily in return.
Ashi ran down the ramp towards her brother, ready to give him a hug. "Well done, little brother!" she exclaimed, being careful not to disturb Charmander who was still in Toshi's arms. She then turned to congratulate Charmander, patting the weary Pokémon on the head. Leon and Raihan joined them at the bottom of the ramp, showering Toshi with praises and congratulations.
As they all celebrated together, Ashi noticed Brock with his family and decided to approach them. After congratulating Brock on a good battle, she asked about the real Gym Leader who had been on leave for three weeks.
Flint stroked his chin thoughtfully, musing aloud to himself, "I believe she should be back from Hoenn soon. Her flight is scheduled for tomorrow evening." But then another voice chimed in melodically, drawing everyone's attention towards the entrance where a figure stood in the shadows before stepping into the light. "Unless she decided to surprise her family and booked an earlier flight, giving her the chance to watch her son's match."
All eyes turned to the unknown person, and Ashi and her friends were dumbstruck as a stunning woman waltzed into the gym with practiced ease. She had long, vibrant pink hair styled into two large buns atop her head, framing her perfect hourglass figure. Her skin was smooth and peach-toned, and her striking green eyes glimmered with mischief. Two beauty marks adorned her cheeks, adding to her unique beauty.
She wore a flowing white kimono with bold red stripes running between two black stripes around her waist. A striking red triangle at the bottom of the dress showcased intricate designs of flames and skulls. The top of the kimono was open, revealing her bare shoulders and a generous amount of cleavage. A thick black belt with a horned skull design cinched her waist, completing the ensemble. Ribbons adorned both sleeves, and a buckled strap rested around her neck. On her feet were traditional sandals featuring impossibly high platforms. As she walked towards them, her elegant movements gave off an airy grace that made it seem like she was floating instead of walking.
Brock and Flint's reactions were immediate and filled with intense emotion. "Mom!/Honey!" Their voices rang out in unison as they caught sight of a woman approaching them. She smiled warmly at the two men before turning to greet the others who stood alongside her family. "Hello, everyone. I am Ikaruga Harrison, Flint's wife and proud mother of my darling son." Her voice was sweet and gentle, yet held an air of authority.
"Mummy, you're back!" The children gathered around her, their faces beaming with joy as she knelt down to embrace each of them individually. Leon and Raihan could hardly believe their eyes. This woman looked no older than her mid-twenties, while Flint appeared to be in his forties. How had he managed to land such a stunning and youthful wife? "Let's not go asking that," Leon interjected, sensing the same curiosity in his friends' expressions.
After embracing each of her children and ensuring their well-being, Ikaruga turned to Ashi with a curious glint in her eye. "I assume you're here for a badge as well," she said, surprising Ashi with her intuition. "Yes, ma'am," Ashi replied respectfully. Ikaruga smiled knowingly, assessing Ashi with sharp eyes.
"Then let's make it a battle worth remembering," Ikaruga declared confidently. "Unless, of course, you'd like to wait for my son to finish treating his Pokemon and challenge him instead." Ashi shook his head. "No, I've heard great things about your strength from Miss Asama and I would love the opportunity to face off against someone of your caliber."
As they stood facing each other, sizing each other up, Ikaruga suddenly exclaimed, "Wait a minute...you're the Ashi that my friend Miya has been telling me about! What a coincidence to run into you here and have you challenging me for the Boulder Badge." Ashi grinned sheepishly. "Miss Asama only taught me the basics, but I've been trying my best to improve. And I really would love a chance to battle against you, if you have time in your schedule."
"Perhaps after our match then," Ikaruga said, turning to her husband. "Honey, would you mind taking the kids upstairs? Things are bound to get messy down here."
"Of course, love," he replied, ushering everyone back up the ramp while Ikaruga and Ashi prepared for their battle. As they waited for the referee's signal, Brock turned to Toshi with excitement. "Looks like you're in for a treat today - this is going to be an incredible match!" Toshi raised an eyebrow. "Is she really that strong?"
Brock chuckled. "Not just strong - immensely powerful. Mom could be an Elite trainer if she wanted to. She's a master at fighting with her team and her swordsmanship is top notch."
"Wow, I had no idea," Toshi said in awe. Meanwhile, Ikaruga pulled out a Pokeball from her sash and called out her first Pokemon. "Rampardos, come on out!" The ground shook with a deafening roar as the ball exploded, unleashing a fearsome Rampardos with a pearl-like dome on its head. Its red eyes blazed with an intense ferocity, and its blue stripes contrasted starkly against its dark-gray skin. Everyone held their breath in awe and fear as the intimidating dinosaur-like Pokemon emerged.
Ikaruga's gaze was steely and resolute, ready for the challenge that lay ahead. "We won't back down. Let's show them what we're made of," she declared confidently. Ashi nodded in agreement, feeling a surge of adrenaline course through her veins as this was going to be a tough battle, but she knew her team was up for it.
Suddenly, Toshi's voice broke through the tension. "Whoa, what is that?!" he exclaimed, quickly pulling out his Pokedex to scan the unfamiliar Pokemon. But to their surprise, the device showed an error message - this Pokemon wasn't even listed in the standard Kanto dex! Meanwhile, Raihan had already summoned his Rotom and was displaying information from the National Dex for Toshi to see. "Rampardos, the Head Butt Pokémon and evolved form of Cranidos. Its Headbutt attack is so powerful that it can pulverize even the sturdiest of objects with one hit," Raihan explained.
"Looks like it might be tougher than Onix," Toshi noted apologetically to Brock, who simply shrugged and replied, "None taken. My mom's Rampardos is a formidable opponent." As everyone braced themselves for the upcoming battle, Ikaruga stood confidently on one side of the battlefield while Ashi stood determinedly on the other. The crowd fell into a hushed silence, waiting for the match to begin.
Ashi took a deep breath and called out her first Pokemon. "Aratiri, I choose you!" Her Pikachu bounded onto the field, his cheeks sparking with electric energy and a fire in his eyes. He was ready to show off his skills. Ikaruga's expression remained passive, but her eyes were filled with curiosity at Ashi's chosen Pokemon. The audience also held their breath, wondering what the outcome of this match would be.
With a commanding gesture from Ikaruga, the battle began. "Rampardos, use Headbutt!" she commanded. The massive Pokemon charged forward with incredible speed, its powerful horns aimed straight at Aratiri. But Ashi quickly gave her own command. "Dodge and counter with Thunderbolt!" she called out. In a flash, Aratiri evaded Rampardos' attack and unleashed a powerful bolt of electricity that struck true and caused an explosion of light and energy.
The crowd erupted in cheers and gasps at the unexpected turn of events. Even Ikaruga looked on with a mixture of surprise and admiration as her Rampardos stumbled from the super-effective hit. But she quickly regained her composure and issued her next command. "Rampardos, show them the true strength of Pewter City Gym! Use Rock Slide!"
The massive boulders descended from above, threatening to crush Aratiri under their weight. But Ashi was quick to react. "Use Agility to dodge them!" she instructed. With impressive speed and agility, Aratiri managed to evade the falling rocks before retaliating with another powerful attack. The battle had only just begun, but both trainers were determined to give it their all and prove their strength.
Aratiri's tiny form blurred with speed as he darted nimbly between the falling boulders, his agile movements allowing him to evade the Rock Slide attack with finesse. The crowd erupted into cheers at the Pikachu's impressive display of athleticism, their voices ringing out in support of Ashi and her brave Pokemon. Ikaruga stood stoically, her face betraying no emotion as she watched the intense battle unfold before her. Her sharp eyes darted back and forth between the two powerful Pokemon, calculating her next move with precision.
"Rampardos, show them your strength! Use Zen Headbutt!" Ikaruga's voice was firm and commanding as she directed her massive Rampardos into action. The towering dinosaur charged forward, its glowing head radiating a powerful psychic energy as it bore down on Ashi's Aratiri. The electric mouse braced himself, determined to withstand the incoming attack.
But just as Rampardos was about to deliver the impending blow, Ashi unleashed their secret weapon. "Aratiri, meet it head on with Iron Tail!" With a brilliant metallic glow, Aratiri's tail met Rampardos' Zen Headbutt in a fierce clash of strength and determination. The ground shook beneath their feet as the two moves collided with equal force. A blinding burst of light erupted from the collision, momentarily stunning everyone in the arena. As the dust settled, it became clear that both Pokemon had been pushed to their limits by the intense exchange.
Ikaruga watched in awe as her Rampardos and Ashi's Aratiri faced each other in a tense standoff. The air crackled with tension as the two Pokemon refused to back down, their gazes locked in an unwavering stare. The crowd held their breath, enthralled by the ferocity of the battle. "That was amazing!" Forrest exclaimed, watching intently as Aratiri's Iron Tail dealt a significant blow to Rampardos. Flint nodded in agreement, impressed by Ashi's strategic use of Iron Tail against Ikaruga's Pokemon.
"I knew you could do it, go Aratiri!" Toshi cheered from the ramp, waving his arms excitedly as he rooted for his sister's Pikachu. Ashi felt pride swell in her chest at the sight of her beloved Pokemon standing strong against such a formidable opponent. But Ikaruga wasn't backing down. With a fierce glint in her eye, she knew it was time to unleash her ultimate attack. "Rampardos, use Giga Impact!" Her voice echoed across the battlefield as Rampardos let out a deafening roar, charging up an immense amount of energy.
Ashi's heart raced as she watched the powerful Giga Impact hurtling towards Aratiri. She knew they had to act fast if they stood any chance of winning this battle. "Aratiri, counter with Volt Tackle now!" Ashi's determination rang through her voice as her Pikachu crackled with electricity, charging towards Rampardos with unmatched ferocity. The two mighty attacks collided, creating a blinding explosion that shook the entire arena.
The crowd erupted into cheers and gasps as the intense clash of forces sent shockwaves rippling through the air. As the light faded and the dust settled, all eyes were on the battlefield, waiting anxiously to see who would emerge victorious from this incredible battle. Slowly, amidst the clearing smoke and debris, two figures emerged from the epicenter of the collision. Aratiri stood on all fours, panting heavily while looking to the equally exhausted Rampardos who tried to stay upright but ultimately crashed to the ground with a resounding thud.
Ikaruga watched with a mixture of surprise and admiration as she recalled her fallen Rampardos, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Not bad there I must admit I hadn't thought you could pull off such an impressive attack but now I think it's time to bring out the best for last." She brought out another Pokeball and threw it to the field, "Tyrantrum it's your turn!"
The newly released Pokemon was a huge, brown-red dinosaur with scaly patterns and orange highlights. Its head was large with a ridged snout and powerful jaws, black eyes and a gray lower jaw covered in white feathers. Sharp teeth lined the bottom of its mouth, while the upper jaw had orange-tipped projections. Five spike-like crowns sat above its eyes, and a feathery white ruff surrounded its neck like a cape. Gray underbelly with white borders, two orange spikes on the end of its long tail. Small two-digit forelimbs and powerful hind legs with three black claws each. Armored ridges adorned its knees, back, and tail.
The massive and ferocious Tyrantrum let out a thunderous roar. Its intimidating presence loomed over the battlefield, causing a hush to fall over the crowd as they beheld the formidable Dragon-type Pokemon. Toshi shot a quick glance at Raihan's Rotom to see it quickly scan the Pokemon and then reading what it said about it: "Tyrantrum, the Despot Pokémon. Using its jaw, Tyrantrum can rip through thick metal. In times past, it was considered unbeatable."
"Wow this one is certainly going to be more challenging for Ashi, considering not just that but it also happens to be a Dragon-type to boot." Raihan said out loud to the others and Toshi hearing that and then turning back to look at where his sister was, finding himself now worried about her current predicament.
Ashi's heart raced at the sight of the powerful Tyrantrum, knowing that this battle was far from over. She met Tyrantrum's fierce gaze with unwavering determination, her bond with Aratiri strengthening as they prepared to face this daunting opponent. Ikaruga's eyes narrowed as she looked down at Ashi, her Tyrantrum looming behind her in all its intimidating glory.
"Do you dare to continue this battle or will you admit defeat?" she asked, a flicker of amusement crossing her face at the sight of the determined girl and her fearless Pokemon. Ashi stood her ground, her gaze unwavering as she met Ikaruga's challenge head on. "We will never give up," she declared with conviction, earning a glint of respect from the other trainer. But gazing at the weary Aratiri as she sees he was exhausted and knew was time to send in his replacement. "Aratiri return! Sora come forward!"
The crowd murmured in confusion as Ashi switched out her Pikachu for a Litten, causing Leon to raise an eyebrow in surprise. But Ashi had a plan, something that only her and Sora knew. They were ready for this fight. Sora's eyes blazed with determination and a fierce growl escaped its throat as it stepped onto the battlefield, facing off against the formidable Tyrantrum with no hint of fear in its fiery gaze. It was ready to prove itself against the odds.
Ikaruga raised an eyebrow at the small fire cat Pokemon, impressed by its courage but also eager to see how it would fare against her most powerful Pokemon. "Tyrantrum, use Dragon Claw!" she commanded, sending the massive Dragon-type charging towards Sora with deadly intent. But Ashi was one step ahead. "Sora, use Double Team!" she called out, a smirk playing on her lips as Sora swiftly multiplied into several illusionary copies that darted around the battlefield with incredible speed and agility. Tyrantrum roared in frustration, unsure which Litten was real amongst the chaotic duplicates.
"Now's your chance, Sora! Use Fury Swipes!" Ashi yelled out, watching as Sora darted between the illusions and landed a series of swift strikes on Tyrantrum's vulnerable underbelly. The Despot Pokemon roared in pain, but its massive form was still standing strong. The tension in the arena was palpable as Tyrantrum roared, swiping at the illusionary copies of Sora that surrounded it. But Ashi's plan was unfolding flawlessly, with the real Litten dodging each attack with graceful precision and landing critical blows on Tyrantrum's vulnerable spots. The crowd erupted into cheers as the intense battle unfolded before them.
"Looks like Ashi has a solid strategy," Flint remarked with a knowing smile. "Using Sora's agility against Ikaruga's powerful but slow Tyrantrum." The battle raged on, reaching new heights of intensity as Tyrantrum and Sora clashed with all their might. Ashi's quick thinking and strategic moves were proving to be effective, slowly wearing down Tyrantrum's size and power with Sora's speed and grace. Every strike from the fiery Litten chipped away at the formidable Dragon-type Pokemon, leaving it reeling.
Ikaruga could only watch as her beloved Tyrantrum struggled to keep up with the elusive Litten. Refusing to let this battle slip through her fingers, she gritted her teeth and commanded her Pokemon to use Stone Edge. But Ashi wasn't about to let her partner fall so easily. "Sora, dodge and counter with Fire Fang!" she shouted with determination. Sora moved with blinding speed, evading the incoming stones and closing in on Tyrantrum in a fiery blur. Its fangs ignited with intense flames as it sank them into Tyrantrum's armored hide, causing the mighty Pokemon to roar in pain.
"Yeah go Sora go!" Toshi couldn't help but root for his sister's Pokemon, shouting words of encouragement as he watched Sora sink his fiery fangs deeper into Tyrantrum's flesh. But the Dragon-type Pokemon refused to give up, waiting for Ikaruga's command to throw it off with a Dragon Tail attack. The arena trembled as Tyrantrum unleashed its powerful Dragon Tail, sending Sora flying through the air with a resounding thud. Ashi's heart clenched as she watched her partner crash to the ground, but Sora quickly scrambled back to its feet, shaking off the impact with a defiant growl. The fiery Litten's fur was singed from the attack, but its eyes blazed with unyielding determination.
"Sora, are you okay?" Ashi called out, her voice filled with concern and encouragement. The fire cat Pokemon turned to her with a reassuring nod, a silent promise to continue the fight until the very end. It was a bond forged in battle, a testament to their unbreakable spirit. Ikaruga smirked at the sight of Sora's resilience, impressed by the tenacity of Ashi's Pokemon. "Well done, but let's see how you fare against this!" she declared, her eyes glinting with a fierceness and Ashi turning back to meet her opponent head on. "Yeah let's!"
In the electrifying arena, the fierce battle between Ashi's fiery Litten, Sora, and Ikaruga's formidable Tyrantrum raged on with escalating intensity. The air crackled with energy as the two powerful Pokemon clashed, their attacks colliding in a blinding explosion of sound and light. Each displayed unwavering determination and strength, refusing to back down even for a moment. The crowd in the stands above were spellbound as they watched this epic match unfold. The ground shook beneath them with every thundering roar and earth-shattering blow. They marveled at how this small but mighty Litten held its own against the strongest of Ikaruga's team, its fur ablaze with fiery determination.
As Ashi strategized and called out commands, her eyes gleamed with a fierce determination. She could see that her opponent was strong, but she had something up her sleeve that would give her an edge. With a confident grin, she shouted, "Sora, use Fire Spin and jump into it!" With a burst of flames from his mouth, Sora created a whirling vortex of intense heat that engulfed the battlefield. The air grew thick with the scent of burning embers as the fiery tornado roared and spun around Tyrantrum.
In one swift move, the real Litten leapt into the heart of the inferno, using its speed and agility to strike at Tyrantrum from all angles. Its sharp claws glinted in the bright light as it landed precise blows on its opponent. Despite its size and strength, Tyrantrum struggled to break free from Sora's grasp. The Fire Spin drained its energy with every passing second, weakening it with each scorching blast.
The crowd held their breath in awe at the impressive display of power and strategy from Ashi and Sora. Even Ikaruga couldn't help but be impressed by their tenacity and skill. As the battle raged on, it was clear that this was a match unlike any other, one that would go down in history as an unforgettable display of strength and courage. As the Fire Spin subsided, revealing a weakened Tyrantrum at the center of the battlefield, Ashi locked eyes with Ikaruga who looked on with grudging admiration. "Shake it off and retaliate with Stone Edge," she barked out urgently. The Despot Pokemon summoned sharp stones from the ground, launching them at Sora with deadly precision and speed.
But Ashi was determined not to let her partner fall so easily. With a fierce cry, she called out to Sora, instructing it to dodge the onslaught of stones with its incredible agility. The Litten's form blurred with astonishing speed as it nimbly evaded each projectile, moving with graceful precision. As the final stone landed back on the battlefield, Sora stood resolute and ready for whatever challenge lay ahead. Ashi knew this was their moment to unleash their true strength.
With unwavering determination in her voice, Ashi commanded Sora to use its full power. "Let's show them what we're made of! Fire Blast at maximum strength!" Sora's eyes blazed with determination as it gathered an immense amount of fiery energy within its core. With a fierce roar, the Litten unleashed a devastating Fire Blast that soared towards Tyrantrum with unstoppable force. The searing flames engulfed the Dragon-type Pokemon in a blazing inferno, causing it to howl in agony as it was consumed by the intense heat.
Ikaruga's eyes widened in shock as she watched her once unbeatable Tyrantrum falter under the overwhelming power of Sora's attack. The Despot Pokemon staggered back, its rocky exterior cracking and charring from the scorching flames. The air itself seemed to tremble with the intensity of the attack as the spectators had to shield themselves from the blaze until it died down. When the fire finally dissipated, all could see that the giant behemoth now lay defeated on the ground. Its massive form smoldered and charred from the onslaught of Sora's powerful Fire Blast.
"YESSS, that was absolutely INCREDIBLE! Toshi shouted, his eyes wide with excitement as he watched his sister emerge victorious from the intense battle. "I knew you could do it, sis!" Ashi turned to look at her friends with a triumphant smile, her eyes shining with pride and exhilaration. Even her two Pokemon, Sora and Aratiri, were brimming with energy and pride from their first ever Gym Battle victory.
The crowd erupted into thunderous cheers and applause, filling the arena with an overwhelming chorus of voices celebrating Ashi and her Pokemon's impressive triumph over the formidable Despot Pokemon. Even Flint and Brock couldn't help but be impressed by the young trainer's skill and determination in the face of such a daunting opponent. As the dust settled and everyone caught their breath, Ikaruga approached Ashi who was gently cradling her exhausted Litten.
She extended her hand towards the young teen with a warm smile on her face. "That was a well-fought battle. I must say, not many have impressed me like you did today. It was an honor to fight against such a worthy adversary." Ashi beamed with pride, shaking Ikaruga's hand firmly and smiling at her defeated opponent. "Thank you for the challenging battle."
"Likewise." Suddenly, one of the kids appeared before them with something in their hand. "As a token of your successful victory over the Pewter Gym, I am proud to present you with this Boulder Badge. Wear it with pride and always remember this momentous accomplishment." Ashi felt the cool metal pressed into her palm before thanking them gratefully.
Just then, she was enveloped in a hug from her brother Toshi who had rushed down from the stands to congratulate her. "You were amazing out there! Sora and Aratiri were incredible too. I can't believe you pulled it off!" Ashi laughed and ruffled his hair fondly. "I couldn't have done it without their help and your support, Toshi."
Their group of friends also gathered around them, showering Ashi with congratulations and praise for her well-deserved victory. Suddenly, they were interrupted by a familiar voice that cut through their excited chatter. "Congratulations on your win against Ikaruga, Ashi. That was quite an impressive performance," the blue-haired man said as he approached them. All eyes turned to him, recognizing him as Steven Stone – the legendary Hoenn Champion from another region.
"Wow, you're Steven Stone?!" Toshi exclaimed in awe, realizing they were being greeted by a renowned trainer. Steven smiled warmly at him. "Yes, and you must be Toshi. Ashi has told me all about you and invited me to watch your match. I must say, you did not disappoint." Leon, then spoke up as he remember something. "Stone...are you related to Joseph Stone, the president of Devon Corporation?"
"Yes, he's my father," Steven confirmed with a nod as soon as Leon brought it up and mention his company's Pokenav device that was one of their number one sellers back home. "Yes, it's one of the best devices we have in Hoenn, as I was telling Ashi here about them though wasn't able to fully go into full details that night as there were other matters that we were more into at that time," Steven replied, recalling their conversation at the quarry.
Everyone turned to look at Ashi with surprise and curiosity. Feeling flustered under their gaze, she explained sheepishly, "Um...last night when we went to bed, I took a walk back to the quarry and that's where I met Mr. Stone—"
"Call me Steven," he interjected with a smile. "There's no need to be formal."
"Right Steven here was in the area and we were mostly discussing Mega evolution," Ashi said, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment at the mention of their late-night conversation. She quickly changed the subject, thanking Steven for coming to watch their battle. "It means a lot to me – I mean us," she added nervously. Steven chuckled at her reaction before turning his attention to the rest of the group. "I must say, I'm impressed by all of you. Your teamwork and dedication are truly remarkable qualities in a trainer." He had seen how both Ashi and her brother had performed well in their battles, and he could see their potential to become powerful trainers with enough time and practice.
"So, what do you plan to do now? Are you still planning to excavate around here or are there any other places you plan to explore?" Ashi wondered what his agenda was but didn't want to go privy into someone else's business unless he wanted to say what it was. Steven pretended to think about it for a moment before turning his gaze towards them. "Well, I do know that there's a mountain in the direction of Ceraluen City that I was thinking of checking out. And I heard that the gym is located in that direction as well. Perhaps it would be beneficial if I joined you all on your journey."
"Seriously dude!" Raihan exclaimed before being hushed by Misty. "Well, we don't want to impose on your time, but if it's alright with you, then we welcome your company," Ashi replied with a smile, gesturing towards her brother and Misty who were also fine with the idea. However, Leon and Raihan seemed reluctant to let him for some odd reasons she couldn't fathom but eventually agreed as well. Ashi then turned to see Brock talking with his parents about his desire to go on a Pokemon journey. They were discussing the possibility of letting him go and encouraging him to follow his dreams.
"But are you sure about this? I don't mind staying here and helping Mom out whenever she needs it," Brock said, hesitantly voicing his concerns. His dad sometimes step in for Ikaruga if she was unable but Flint was mostly a stay-at-home dad to watch the younger kids and keeping everything from going under the chaos of all nine children in the Harrison House.
Ikaruga placed a hand on his shoulder as she looked to her stepson with a gentle smile. "Brock, we know how much you want to explore the world and become a great trainer. We only want what's best for you." His father also agreed with her sentiment. "She's right son. We want you to go out and achieve your dreams."
Ikaruga then pulled out a slim case from her sleeve and passed it to Brock. "In fact, I prepared something for you as soon as I got back. It's the Pokemon Breeder Deluxe Kit that you've been wanting since you first saw it advertised." As Brock opened the case, he saw top-of-the-line grooming tools that were essential for any aspiring Pokemon breeder. "Mom, I don't know what to say," Brock said, looking at his parents with overflowing gratitude in his heart.
"Well, how about saying thank you and asking these fine folks if you can join their party?" Ikaruga suggested with a warm smile, knowing that the others had overheard their conversation. The pink-haired woman gently turned to face Ashi and her companions, her eyes glowing with earnestness. "I know this may seem like a lot to ask, but would you be willing to allow our son to accompany you on your journey? He greatly admires all of you and I believe your guidance will have a positive impact on his future decisions."
Ashi and her friends exchanged glances and nods of agreement, seeing no harm in welcoming Brock into their group. "Of course, Brock, we'd be happy to have you join us." Brock's eyes lit up with excitement and appreciation. "Thank you all so much! Especially you, Ashi!" He rushed forward to grab the trainer's hands, speaking effusively for everyone to hear.
"Once again I am blessed to be in the presence of such kind and influential individuals with you my benevolent Goddess!" The group shared a small sweatdrop, while Raihan wondered if they could rescind the invitation if this was going to be Brock's demeanor throughout the entire journey.
With bittersweet pride filling their hearts, Ikaruga and Flint beamed at their son, his wings now strong enough for him to take flight and embark on his own journey. The group of friends now one member larger, Ashi felt a renewed sense of determination and camaraderie among them. They stopped at the Pokemon Center to have their Pokemon healed while Brock rushed home to gather his belongings. It took him only five minutes to return with a large backpack and a faint scent of smoke lingering on his clothes.
"Okay, I'm ready to go. Oh, Dad, don't panic, but I managed to rescue the meatloaf you were cooking. Though you might have to scrape off a lot of burnt bits." A lot meant like the whole thing since it looked like a charred box by the time he got it out of the oven. Brock kept this thought to himself, not wanting to worry his father any further. Flint's face paled as he realized he had completely forgotten about the meatloaf in all the excitement of watching his wife's match. Seeing her husband's distress, Ikaruga quickly moved to comfort him.
"There there, dear. How about we order some takeout? My treat." She gave him a quick peck on the cheek, which seemed to perk him up a bit. With their Pokemon fully healed and ready to go, it was time for goodbyes.
"Bye guys! I'll be sure to call and let you know how I'm doing!" Brock waved to his family and younger siblings who were all cheering for him outside the Pokemon Center. With one final wave, the group set off towards Mt. Moon, their newest companions Steven and Brock eager to join Ashi and her friends. The road ahead promised many challenges and adventures, but together they knew they could overcome anything.
As they walked, Ashi couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement bubbling inside her. This journey was just beginning, and she had a strong sense that it would be more incredible than she could have ever imagined.
"So Ashi, by any chance do you happen to have a boyfriend?" Brock suddenly asked, interrupting her thoughts. Ashi blinked in surprise before looking at the teen by her side. "Because if not, I wouldn't mind being your—" His words were cut off as a bolt of electricity nearly hit his ear from Aratiri's Thundershock. The Pikachu was perched on Ashi's shoulder while Sora growled from his trainer's arms, the Litten clearly warning Brock to back off or else.
"Now now, you two, there's no need for aggression." Ashi gently placed a hand on Brock's shoulder, smiling warmly. "Thank you, Brock, but let's focus on our journey ahead and becoming the best trainers we can be." Brock nodded sheepishly, a slight flush creeping up his cheeks as he realized he might have overstepped. "Y-yeah, you're right. Sorry about that." He cast a bashful glance at Ashi, his gaze lingering for a moment before he turned his attention back to the road ahead.
The others who had witnessed the interaction had their own thoughts on the matter. Raihan couldn't help but think that the young trainer should have known better than to make advances on Ashi, while Leon mentally planned to give both Aratiri and Sora a special treat for successfully keeping the determined suitor at bay. Steven chuckled quietly to himself, his earlier prediction of this situation being proven right as Ashi remained unswayed by such overtures.
Toshi and Misty were deeply engrossed in conversation about the earlier match, passionately debating whose attack was more impressive - Aratiri's powerful Iron Tail or Sora's fiery Fire Blast. The air was filled with their passionate voices, punctuated by laughter and playful jabs. As they continued down the trail towards the looming mountain, everyone's thoughts were filled with excitement for what awaited them in the vast world of Pokemon. Yes, things were definitely looking promising for all of them and they couldn't wait to see what lay ahead on their great adventure.
Asharia 'Ashi' Ketchum - Age 18, Trainer (Beginner)
Team Ashi -
*Litten (m) - Sora
Pikachu (m) - Aratiri
*Litleo (f) - Sekhmet
*Shinx (f) - Yoruichi
Scyther (m) - Masamune
Beedrill (f) - Suzumebachi
Satoshi 'Toshi' Ketchum - Age 10, Trainer (Beginner)
Team Toshi -
Charmander (m)
Litleo (m)
Shinx (m)
Pidgeotto (f)
Butterfree(m)
Beedrill (m)
Leon Jordan - Age 20, Trainer (Advance) Galar Champion x5
Team Leon -
Charizard (m)
Dragapult (m)
Rillaboom (m)
Cinderace (m)
Inteleon (m)
Mr. Rime (m)
Raihan Tarsha - Age 23, Trainer (Advance) Hammerlocke Gym Leader
Team Raihan -
Duraludon (m)
Sandaconda (m)
Goodra (m)
Flygon (m)
Misty Williams - Age 12, Trainer (Beginner)
Team Misty -
Staryu (?)
Starmie (?)
Goldeen (f)
Brock Harrison - Age 16, Trainer (Intermediate) Temp Pewter Gym Leader
Team Brock -
Geodude (m)
Onix (m)
Steven Stone - Age 25, Trainer (Advance) Hoenn Champion
Team Steven -
Pokemon TBA
Omake: Inside the Harrison House, after Brock left
After three weeks in the Hoenn region, Ikaruga was grateful to be back home in Pewter City. She had visited her friend at the Izumo Inn in Lavaridge Town and enjoyed their time together, sharing stories and sparring to keep their sword fighting skills sharp. It was a shame that there weren't many others interested in learning the ways of the sword, except for a few children who were not yet at her level. But now, being back in Pewter with her loved ones, she couldn't be happier.
Ikaruga had rushed back on the earliest flight available, eager to return to her precious family. She arrived just in time to watch her son's match against a boy named Toshi Ketchum before she herself took on the other Challenger for the Boulder Badge personally to gauge if they were worthy to have it. As she watched Brock skillfully battle, she couldn't help but feel immensely proud of him and how he had held down the fort while she was away. As a mother, she would miss him as he embarked on his own journey, but she knew he would do well alongside other talented trainers.
Speaking of which, Ikaruga had also been impressed by Ashi, a remarkable girl who had all the qualities of a great Pokemon trainer. She even saw potential in Ashi's team during their recent battle against her own. After treating them to some rest and playtime in the spacious backyard, Ikaruga noticed her Tyrantrum peacefully napping under the care of the older children while Rampardos gleefully allowed the younger ones to ride on its back. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits despite Brock's departure, knowing that their mom was back and all was well.
But everything changed when Flint told Ikaruga about what happened between Gary Oaks and Brock in their recent match. The moment she heard that the Pallet trainer had insulted Brock's Pokemon and boasted about having an easy victory, Ikaruga's favorite teacup trembled under the pressure of her grip. Flint knew he should have kept his mouth shut, but he also knew that one of the other kids would eventually tell Ikaruga and trigger her fiery wrath.
As the former leader of the Trinity Raven, Ikaruga's piercing gaze turned towards Flint, causing him to gulp audibly under her intense stare. Her blood boiled with fury at the disrespect shown towards Brock and his hardworking team. She couldn't believe someone would have the audacity to belittle them like that. "Ikaruga, let's not act rashly now..." Flint tried to calm her down, but his words only seemed to further incense her. The thought of someone insulting not only Brock but also his Pokemon ignited a fierce determination in Ikaruga. She was ready to unleash her wrath on anyone who dared to disrespect her family.
"Oh Darling I'm completely rational, I'm just going to go for a quick walk is all, maybe throw in a little Rattata hunting while I'm at it." Ikaruga's voice was barely contained as she seethed with anger, her words dripping with disdain for the disrespectful boy who had dared to insult Brock and his Pokemon. The air in the room crackled with tension as she stormed over to her sword, which lay by the mantle, ready to charge out of the house with purposeful strides.
Flint hurried after her, knowing that it was futile to try and reason with her once she had set her mind on something. "Ikaruga, darling, please think about what you're doing," he pleaded. She brushed off his concerns, determined to make Gary pay for his insolence. "Don't worry, love, I won't murder him or anything. But someone needs to teach that brat some manners," she retorted fiercely. Her eyes gleamed with a fierce protectiveness as she added, "This is our family's honor at stake."
As she reached for her Mugetsu-Ryu and headed for the front door, Flint desperately tried to stop her. He pleaded with her to calm down and not resort to violence. But Ikaruga was too consumed with rage to listen and pulled away from him. Their children gathered around, curious about the commotion. They saw their stepmother's fury and their father's attempts to calm her down. They were torn between wanting to join in on the action or help their father restrain their mother.
With a look from Flint, they all sprung into action, trying to hold back their mother's wild impulses. "Honey, please let's not get carried away," Flint begged. "He's just a kid too, and as much as I'd love to watch you pulverize that punk, think of the consequences we'll face if you go through with it like this."
The overwhelming urge to fight and kill slowly dissipated from Ikaruga's body as Flint's soothing words finally began to break through her bloodlust. She allowed herself to relax in his embrace, the tension in her muscles gradually ebbing away. With gentle yet firm hands, he pried the sword from her grip, knowing that she could snap back into a frenzy at any moment. As she regained control of her senses, Ikaruga took a deep breath and tried to compose herself. Her mind raced with the realization of the potential consequences of her actions and she couldn't help but feel guilty for losing control in front of her family.
"Mummy, are you okay?" Her children's voices echoed down the hallway, concern etched on their young faces. Seeing them like this only added to Ikaruga's guilt. She forced a smile onto her face and spoke softly, "I'm sorry, my darlings. Mommy didn't mean to frighten you. I just got a little carried away, but I promise it won't happen again."
"It's okay, mummy!" Her children chimed in unison, their understanding and forgiveness bringing some relief to Ikaruga's troubled heart. Forrest stepped forward and hugged her tightly, his reassuring words calming her nerves even more. "Don't worry about it, mum. We already took care of it while you were gone, so there's no need to fret." His siblings nodded in agreement, all looking at each other with mischievous grins on their faces.
They had concocted the plan after Gary's match with their brother, deciding to let him know about a supposedly super secret shortcut that would take him to Cerulean City without having to abandon his prized vehicle. Upon hearing this tantalizing offer, the ambitious trainer was instantly hooked by the bait, his eyes gleaming with excitement as he realized he could reach his destination sooner than anticipated. The prospect of avoiding the arduous trek through Mt. Moon and the opportunity to rub his rival's face in his superior speed was too tempting to resist.
Little did Gary know, this "shortcut" happened to traverse a certain route that had been closed down due to treacherous road conditions and the fact that it was Diglett mating season. The area was riddled with countless potholes that would take ages to fill until after the season concluded. As Gary sped ahead, blissfully unaware of the impending ordeal, Forrest and his sibling were internally cackling, imagining the bumpy ride that awaited the unsuspecting trainer.
"What kind of godforsaken shortcut is this?!" Gary bellowed, his voice hoarse from two days of constant cursing. The road before him resembled a lunar landscape, pockmarked with craters that could make Swiss cheese look solid by comparison. The relentless jostling of his car had long since transformed his initial enthusiasm into bitter regret. The merciless sun beat down upon the dusty road, its heat intensifying Gary's frustration with each agonizing mile.
As Gary's patience wore thin, so did that of his cheerleaders. The constant bouncing and jarring had reduced some of the girls to quivering, nauseous wrecks. Frequent stops were necessary to allow them to stumble out and gulp down fresh air, their perfectly coiffed hair now disheveled and their makeup streaked with sweat. Some were even threatening to abandon the journey altogether, declaring that trudging along in their heels was preferable to enduring another minute in the four-wheeled torture chamber.
Just as a glimmer of hope appeared on the horizon in the form of gradually smoothing terrain, the car jerked to a sudden, violent stop. The unexpected halt sent bodies flying, with some unfortunate passengers tumbling unceremoniously to the floor. Gary, his temper already at its breaking point, struggled to right himself, mentally slashing the driver's paycheck in half for this latest indignity.
"Why in the name of Arceus did you stop?!" Gary roared, his face contorted with rage. The partition between him and the driver lowered, revealing the young man he'd hired to chauffeur him around Kanto. The driver wordlessly pointed to something obstructing the road ahead. Gary shoved the man's head aside, his eyes widening in disbelief as he took in the sight before him. Of all the possible obstacles that could impede Gary Oak's path to greatness, there stood a solitary...
"A chicken?! Are you kidding me?!" Gary's incredulous voice echoed across the barren landscape. "Must I do everything myself?!" he grumbled, yanking open the car door and storming out to confront this feathered menace. As he approached the bird, which seemed utterly oblivious to the chaos it had caused, Gary couldn't help but wonder how it had come to be here, miles from the nearest farm. Whatever the case, he was determined to use this opportunity to vent his pent-up frustration, even if his opponent was nothing more than a bewildered fowl.
"Hey shoo scat, beat it or else it's rotisserie chicken for lunch!" The chicken was ignoring Gary as it continue to peck the ground, not bother by the boy that was shouting obscenity at it and waving his arms to try and scare him which had no effect on it in the process. Eyebrow twitching and seeing that he was left with no other choice, he pulled out his Pokeball and threw it out to release his main contender, the water-type all eager to brawl and seeing what its opponent was. Blinking confused before turning to his trainer and pointing at the bird that was just pecking about, oblivious to its situation. "Squirt, Squirtle?"
"Squirtle, go take care of this poultry right this instant!" Gary barked out a command, but before he could finish, a strange luminous glow emitted from the chicken. Its eyes turned white and it let out a loud "Bwach!" before unleashing a powerful bolt of lightning that struck not only Gary and his Pokemon, but also everyone else in the vicinity. The electricity coursed through their bodies, causing them to shudder and convulse under its voltage.
Flint paused as he noticed the lightning pass over the outskirts of town, briefly illuminating the area before disappearing. He kept his gaze fixed on the spot, knowing that there were no signs of thunderclouds nearby. It could only mean one thing. But before he could dwell on this thought, his wife's voice called him back to reality from the living room. "Honey, you better come back here or the kids will finish all the Matcha cookies."
Flint tore his eyes away from the window and joined his family at the table, where he saw that almost half of the green delicacies had already been devoured. He managed to snatch one or two before they were all devour and savoring the Hoenn sweet that Miya had been so nice enough to pack for his wife to bring back with her from her visit. As Flint poured Ikaruga another cup of tea in her second favorite mug, both of them heard a loud crack of booming thunder outside. They barely glanced in that direction, instead enjoying the calmness of their cozy home.
"Looks like someone ran into that Emperor Zel out there," Flint remarked to his children who were engrossed in their card game. Although they didn't react outwardly, Flint could tell that they were aware of what was happening. Only a select few in town knew about that unusual group with their strange bird companion that seemed to roam freely. Most people avoided them, including Flint himself. There was just something off about those kids...but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.
Ikaruga, now more relaxed and enjoying her quality time with Flint, heard another lightning strike but remained unfazed. In fact, she had a serene expression on her face as she spoke up, "Looks like it. We should probably call Kazuma and let him know. I'm sure he's wondering where that bird went off to." Out of the eccentric bunch, Kazuma seemed to be the most rational one and Ikaruga preferred speaking with him over his other lady friends. Even she couldn't handle enduring those three oddballs who were just too weird for her taste.
As Flint strode purposefully toward the video phone to contact the Saito resident, Gary and his unconscious Pokémon stirred back to life, their senses returning in a rush of confusion. Gary's last coherent memory was of a chicken jauntily crossing the road—a surreal image that faded into the darkness as everything went black.
"Excuse me?" A voice sliced through Gary's haze of thoughts, drawing his attention to a young man in his early thirties who approached with an expression so deadpan it could almost be mistaken for humor. "Did you happen to see a chicken around here?" Gary blinked, momentarily taken aback by the absurdity of the question, before nodding slowly. "Yeah... I think so." The stranger offered a quick thanks before continuing on his way, muttering under his breath about a "stupid goddess" and an "annoying Lolita with an obsession for explosions," effectively pulling Gary further from reality.
It took a moment for the full weight of chaos surrounding him to sink in. He turned gingerly, eyes widening like saucers as he took in the devastation forged during his brief unconsciousness. What had once been a luxurious limo now lay twisted and mangled—its shiny surface crumpled like discarded paper. Nearby, cheerleaders lamented their ruined hair and designer outfits, their wails piercing through the cacophony of chaos. Meanwhile, the unscathed driver frantically dialed up Triple A for assistance, desperation etched across his face.
Yet amid this pandemonium, the chauffeur bore news that would shake Gary to his core. After his tense conversation with the insurance company, he reluctantly shared that while they would cover any incidents involving Pokémon without hesitation, there was a glaring omission in their policy concerning super-powered chickens. It had taken considerable effort for him to extract this information from an agent whose barely contained laughter echoed in Gary's ears; each chuckle making the situation seem even more absurd than it already was.