Notes- I hope you all have had a great Summer so far! Wow. To get a chapter of this scale out on time is really quite remarkable. This new installment checks in at about 8,300 words I believe. That's a decently long chapter for me haha. In this update, Chris enters into Violet City for the first time. He has quite an experience and even comes across some strange happenings. Do I sense a plot developing? I hope so ha. I had an absolute blast writing this chapter. I hope you enjoy! Please Review and Subscribe!
Sunlight crept into the cave, slowly passing over the trainer and his sleeping Pokémon. Chris fought with all he had to remain asleep, but the light flashed through his sleeping bag.
"Nido!" The Poison Pokémon nudged its trainer, doing its best to bring Chris to his senses.
"Alright," Chris groaned, rubbing his eyes to adjust to daylight. He let out a yawn before finally sitting up. "Guess it's time to get moving."
The trainer found Cyndaquil already awake and in the process of finishing its morning exercises. Chris made sure to wake Golbat who hung motionless on the cave ceiling. He gathered his team together and made sure to give each a generous portion of food.
"After what we've been through I'm sure you guys are starving!" Chris made sure to fix himself breakfast as well. "My Pokémon and bacon are about the only things that can wake me up in the morning."
After consulting a trainer manual he had brought along, Chris decided it was time to specify vitamins for his individual Pokémon.
"For you Cyndaquil," Chris brought out an unopened bottle, "it's time we gave your Ember a boost! This is a Calcium vitamin that'll really make your fire attacks tough to handle!"
"Nido!"
"I didn't forget about you!" Chris opened up another container after giving Cyndaquil its vitamin. He withdrew a capsule which Nidoran quickly ingested. "That's a Carbos vitamin. With some more training, your speed will be off the charts!" He turned to Golbat and opened up a third jar, "Last but not least is an Iron vitamin for Golbat to increase your stamina and defense!"
Once the vitamins were put away, Chris made sure to pack up his sleeping bag and the remaining food. The trainer led his team out into the bright sunlight and onto Route 31. There were four hours till noon and Chris still believed they could reach the city before midday. The trainer pushed the group for three straight hours until they were within a couple of miles from the city gates. Chris decided to take a break next to a pond which lay nestled beside the route.
"I think we deserve a break for all the ground we've covered over the past few days!" Chris exclaimed as he wiped a bead of sweat off his forehead. "Also, once we get into the city I'm going to have to return you to your Pokéballs. It'll be too crowded to get you three lunches then."
As the trainer and his Pokémon ate, Chris noticed a small, obese man nearby who seemed quite anxious about something. The man was holding a fishing rod and seemed to be pacing nervously as he cast his line into the water, drawing confusion from the young trainer. Deciding to ignore the man's strange attitude, Chris swarmed the remaining food in his bag knowing he could restock in Violet City. Once finished, Chris took a short break and looked out at the scenic water and woods surrounding it.
"The Johto Region has to be the most beautiful place in the entire world," Chris smiled as his Pokémon also took in the beauty around them. Though their attitudes may not always work together, Chris could already tell that he and his Pokémon were bonding. His life long dream of traveling and learning about Pokémon was finally happening. "This is perfect…"
"Excuse me!"
The fisherman had walked up right next to the trainer and shouted. Chris stumbled backward in surprise, unaware of the man's close proximity.
"Sorry for startling you!" The fisherman's voice cracked as he slowly rocked back and forth. "I need to ask a favor of you."
Chris noticed that the man currently had a fish on his line and studied the pole bending sharply. He remembered that the man had mentioned a favor and quickly replied, "Uh, what can I do for you?"
"I really need to get back to Violet City, but I don't want to cut my line to get this fish off." The words shot out of the man's mouth so fast that Chris had to replay the sentence mentally in his head to understand. "If you can bring me back my rod I'll let you keep whatever Pokémon is hooked as a reward!"
"Well," Chris knew that this could potentially be a setback with time, but the thought of adding a new Pokémon proved to have greater pull. "Sounds good. Where can I find you?"
"I'll be at the Pokémon School!" The man replied extending a hand. "I'm Earl Dervish and I hold the title of lead researcher and instructor there! Could I have your name before I leave?"
"The name is Chris," the trainer laughed as he shook Earl's hand. "Guess I'll let you get going."
"Oh, right," Earl handed Chris his fishing pole and spun around. As he sped off, he shouted back, "See you in Violet City!"
Chris turned to his Pokémon with confusion on his face. He was not surprised to see them return the sentiment.
"That guy needs to lay off the caff-woah!" Chris felt the fishing pole rattle and remembered that a Pokémon was at the end of the line. "Feels like a monster!"
Chris began reeling in the line as he planted his feet firmly in the ground. Inch by inch, he could feel the Pokémon being pulled into shore. He had pulled it into extremely shallow water and was not giving the creature any chance to rest.
"This kind of reminds of the days I would go fishing with dad," Chris spoke aloud, as he continued to reel the Pokémon in. "Those are actually some of the best memories I have." Chris couldn't hold back a smile as he thought of the good times he had with his father.
As Chris went to pull his catch out of the water, the Pokémon did the honors for him. The catch flipped out of the water and slammed into Chris' lowered face. The pond Pokémon and a dazed Chris collapsed in a pile next to the water. All of Chris' Pokémon burst into laughter, prompting Chris to give them an annoyed scowl.
"That never happened on those fishing trips," Chris placed a hand over his forehead, rubbing the bruise that had already begun to form. He grabbed his Pokédex and identified the Pokémon which was flopping around beneath him.
"Magikarp, the Fish Pokémon. An underpowered, pathetic Pokémon. It may jump high on rare occasions, but never more than seven feet."
"I don't really feel like catching a Pokémon with a Pokédex entry like that." Chris stood up and looked down so that he could finally examine the Pokémon he had captured. Looking back at the picture on the Pokédex, Chris suddenly stopped his grumbling. "Wait. There's something different about this Magikarp." Chris was shocked to discover that the Pokémon's scales were golden instead of the usual red. The trainer's brother had once informed Chris about rare Pokémon who had alternative hued bodies. Matt had used the term 'shiny' to describe them. "I don't care how weak this guy is! There's no way I'm passing up on capturing a Shiny Pokémon!"
Chris was so excited about the opportunity that he forgot to send out one of his Pokémon to battle. Instead, he immediately withdrew a Pokéball without thinking and tossed it at the floundering Magikarp.
"Oh wait!" Chris shouted as Magikarp was absorbed into the Pokéball. "How amateur of a move was that?" Chris continued to scoff over his actions.
"Cynda!" The fire starter caught Chris' attention and pointed towards the Pokéball containing Magikarp.
"No way," Chris was shocked to discover that he had somehow captured the Pokémon without even weakening it. "This must be the weakest Magikarp around," Chris shook his head amused, but also disappointed. He picked up the Pokéball and put it away in his backpack. "Let's get to Violet City so we can heal up."
Chris returned his Pokémon to their Pokéballs as they arrived at the city gates. As the trainer made his way through the bustling streets, his eyes were drawn to an ancient looking tower which stood North of downtown Violet City.
"Definitely going to have to check that place out before I leave." Chris found the Pokémon Center to be located close to the city limits. Once inside he discovered that the building was jam packed with other trainers. "So this is the competition I'm going up against." Chris was relieved to find a short service line. Once the trainers before him had finished their business, Chris stepped up to the counter. Chris gave a warm smile to the Nurse Joy which stood before him. "Hello Nurse Joy!"
"Hello trainer!" She replied with a trademark smile. "Are your Pokémon in need of medical attention?"
"Yes," Chris clarified, handing the nurse his Pokéballs, "they're quite worn out. We've traveled straight from Cherrygrove to here over the past couple of days."
"If you think that's a long way," Nurse Joy held back a chuckle, "wait till you travel to Azalea Town! It's about twice the distance!"
"Oh," Chris' confidence was brought to a sudden stop. "May I have a time to return for my Pokémon?"
"We have been busy…" Nurse Joy looked at a schedule on her desk. "I would say it may take an hour before we have them fully healed.
"Thank you ma'am!" Chris decided that it would be a smart idea to scope out the city while he waited.
Chris exited the Pokémon Center and continued on into the city. He hadn't traveled very far when he noticed an educational facility close by. Remembering the collapsed fishing rod in his bag, Chris headed straight for the building. The trainer made his way across the packed street, dodging vehicles as he went. Growing up, he had always thought that Cherrygrove City's traffic was terrible. However, the sheer volume of people around him was almost overwhelming. The sidewalk outside the trainer school was so full that Chris had to physically shove his way onto it. He felt like a fish swimming up stream as he weaved his was through the throng of people. This was his first taste of downtown traffic in years, and he was quickly discovering how blessed he had been.
Chris finally stumbled his way out of the stampeding rush hour crowd and entered into the school. Chris was relieved to find the lobby devoid of human life and took a second to recover from the chaos outside. He found a directory on a nearby bulletin board and searched for Earl's office. He memorized the directions to the researcher's domain and had just started up the nearest flight of stairs, when a man obstructed his path.
"Hello sir," the man stood at around six and a half feet, a full four inches taller than Chris. He was dressed in a very expensive looking dark grey suit, but what stood out to the trainer was the man's voice. His tone was low, almost guttural, yet he spoke quite softly. "I'm sorry, but the Trainer's Academy is currently closed until some repairs are finished.
"I was just going to return a fishing rod Mr. Dervish let me borrow," Chris politely replied, pointing at his backpack where the object resided.
A slight flash of annoyance crossed the man's face, but it quickly disappeared. "It might be best if you hold onto that until the professor arrives. I'm a bit tied up at the moment."
Chris understood that he had overstayed his welcome. "Thank you for your help sir!"
"Not a problem."
The man led Chris back to the entrance and held the door open for him. "Violet City Gym is only a few blocks down the street. Have a nice day."
Chris thanked the man once more and then continued further downtown. "He must have recognized me as a trainer by my gear…" Chris was perplexed by the man's intuition considering Chris didn't have his Pokémon with him. "I guess that's why he teaches at an academy."
Chris soon found himself standing before a wide building with an official Pokémon League sign in front of it. Chris had to crane his neck just to see the top of the high rise building. "This looks more like an office building than a Pokémon Gym."
As the trainer went to step inside he immediately remembered his Pokémon were recovering at the Pokémon Center. "Jumping the gun a little bit!" Chris laughed, deciding it was time to head back for his team. Before he could turn to leave, his eyes caught sight of a sign stuck on the inside of the door.
"I'm currently out of the gym. I advise challengers to journey to Sprout Tower for training and guidance." Chris scanned over the words several times before the trainer finally accepted what they meant. "I didn't think Sprout Tower was even open to visitors anymore."
The trainer began the trip back to the Pokémon Center, trying to piece together a plan of action. Chris decided that waiting outside the Gym would waste too much time. He had no idea when the trainer would even be back. The trainer concluded that training at Sprout Tower would be the best use of his free time.
Chris found his way back to the Pokémon Center and obtained a healthy team. He thanked Nurse Joy and quickly exited the medical facility. Chris remembered seeing the tower just north of the city and took off in that direction. The trainer decided that these city streets, much like Cherrygrove City, were no place for his Pokémon to walk around. Chris kept all four of his Pokéballs well concealed as he began towards his destination. Thankfully, the sidewalks themselves had actually opened up with the lunch hour over. The trainer found himself examining local businesses with his expanded sight.
Chris noticed that much of the city still had a traditional feel about it. Despite the bustling atmosphere, many of the buildings appeared to be decades old, presenting a glowing contrast with their wooden and tile textures. The painted clay around the structures dulled the sun's rays, meshing the worn buildings behind their newer counterparts.
As he was passing by a convenience store, Chris was stopped in his tracks by a news bulletin from a television inside. The station flashed over to a reporter who stood before a home surrounded by yellow police tape. The trainer couldn't hear what was being said through the store's glass walls, but a headline scrolled by at the bottom of the screen.
"Mr. Pokémon has disappeared," Chris was unfamiliar with the man's identity until a portrait appeared on screen. "No! Not him!" The picture displayed the very same elderly man Chris had talked to in Cherrygrove City and Route 30. The image showed the elder without his trademark hat, but Chris still clearly recognized his face. The face that had sympathized and showed compassion to a heartbroken Chris in Cherrygrove. A face that was jubilant and showed genuine excitement during Chris' battle with the elder's granddaughter.
Kayla.
Chris worried that the young woman may have vanished as well, but her picture never appeared on screen. Chris took this as a positive sign as he feared kidnapping may be behind the disappearance of this apparent Pokémon expert. Chris just had to believe both individuals were okay. There was a sense of weakness and vulnerability that suddenly struck the trainer. Chris felt himself looking over his shoulder constantly as he closed in on Sprout Tower. Rounding a corner, Chris found that a large pond stood between him and the tower. The trainer was relieved to see a bridge only a couple of blocks away.
On his way over to the crossing location, Chris took a short look back onto his previous day. Time had seemed to overtake him, giving him no chance to review the recent significant events. No morning could downplay seeing a Legendary Pokémon. What amazed Chris the most was that Suicune had stayed close by until the trainer had regained consciousness. It displayed a deep bond between humans and Pokémon that Chris longed to discover. It was the driving force behind his decision to become a trainer. A drive more powerful than his goal to win the Silver Conference. It was more important than the trainer becoming a Pokémon Master.
This passion had been instilled into him when the trainer was a small child living in Ecruteak City. His father had taken Chris to the sage's temple which separated Bell Tower from the rest of Ecruteak. The doors, as they had always been, were closed, allowing no one close access to the sacred tower. Chris' father was an electrical engineer for the city and had devised a brilliant path for a new series of electrical wires. Through his plan the wires would go underneath the sanctuary, causing no damage when it would have otherwise been necessary. As a thank you, the sages offered Chris' father a tour of the halls.
Chris was young, but he felt a powerful energy as he and his father entered the grounds. While his father talked with the sages, Chris snuck through a nearby doorway which led outside. The small boy found himself on the road to Bell Tower, surrounded by trees reflecting every color of the rainbow. As he looked around, he noticed many of the forest Pokémon had come out of the shadows and surrounded him. Chris was very frightened by the host watching him.
Before the boy could cry out for help, a Girafarig scooped him up onto its back and pranced around the other Pokémon. Chris' fear turned into joy as he was passed to the other Pokémon. An Ursaring that spun him through the air, a Bellossom that danced with him, and a Donphan that he used as a slide. Chris couldn't remember all of the Pokémon he met that day, but it was a warm memory that would always stick with him. Pokémon and humans were meant to live together. Chris wasn't sure why, but he knew that statement was true.
As Chris began to cross the bridge, he glanced at his PokéGear. Evening was quickly approaching, forcing Chris to resign any chance of battling the Gym that day. The trainer was surprised to find the bridge lead to a small little island in the middle of the pond. Chris noticed lanterns hanging in front of him, illuminating a second bridge that would lead to his destination.
The sun had disappeared behind the tower, placing a shadow over Chris as he arrived.
"Sprout Tower," Chris read from an ancient sign which rested beside the entrance, " Experience the way of Pokémon to cast aside your doubts…" Chris mulled over the words, confused by their meaning. "Cast aside your doubts?" Chris thought back to the past three days of his journey. "I really just started my travels. I haven't had time for any doubts to be troubling me!"
The trainer pulled back the sliding door and released Cyndaquil from its Pokéball. "It's time for us to get some training in," Chris explained to his starter as they stepped inside.
The first thing the trainer noticed was a massive pillar that stood in the center of the tower. As he examined it, Chris was shocked to find the pillar swaying back and forth. Before the trainer could grab Cyndaquil and dive for the exit, laughter caught his attention. Chris turned to his left and found the source to be a bald elder with a flowing beard, white as snow.
"Your first time here?" The man asked with sureness in his voice that made Chris feel he already knew the answer.
"Yes sir," the trainer answered respectfully. He realized this man had seen many years. "The Pokémon Gym Leader is unavailable, but he told me to come here for training and guidance."
"Did he now?"
The man mused quietly, glancing out the window beside him. Chris could see a nest of Ledyba in the tree outside, illuminating it in a flash of color. Beside the tree, rested a garden where many Grass Pokémon were lounging around. Cyndaquil noticed both men were preoccupied by something and leapt on to Chris' shoulder for a look.
"Faulkner," the elder breathed the name and remained still for several seconds, "that boy really has wised up over the years."
Chris had read somewhere that Faulkner had taken on the role of Gym Leader from his father. In fact, his father had actually handed down some of his Pokémon to the young leader. Faulkner's father was supposed to have been an incredibly talented trainer, but also a vagabond. Chris could only imagine how daunting the task of running a gym would be, especially at the age of fourteen.
"If it is training you want," the elder extended a hand, "you have come to the right place!" The man pointed towards the rocking pillar. "The swaying is caused by the battles occurring up stairs. We monks train day and night to perfect our ways and to cast aside any doubts!"
"Doubts?" Chris remembered the word on the sign outside. "What doubts could a man like yourself possess?"
"It would be easier to show you," the monk pointed to a winding stair case close by.
Cyndaquil leapt back to the ground as Chris followed the sage over to the bottom of the steps. The room seemed to darken as they moved away from the windows, giving Chris an uneasy feeling. Chris went to take the first step onto the staircase when he noticed the elder had stopped moving. Chris suddenly understood.
"I have to go up alone."
"As long as you have your Pokémon," a smile rose to the sage's face, "you will never be alone."
The words struck Chris like a punch to the gut. Had he turned this journey into a personal escapade? How could he forget about his team of Pokémon that had stuck by the starting trainer? The only companions he could rely upon.
Chris' body felt frozen and seemed to completely shut down. The trainer seemed isolated from any other being around him. He already doubted the worth of his Pokémon and now he had begun to doubt himself. Chris looked up at the steps before him. They were an imposing obstacle, a seemingly impassible force.
"Cynda."
Chris' starter Pokémon placed a paw on its trainer's fist which was tightly gripped around the staircase railing. Chris locked eyes with the fire starter for the first time since they had met. The Pokémon's eyes had not changed since that time. Chris could still see a powerful determination inside his starter's gaze. But now, Chris noticed something else.
Fear.
Chris felt the tension in his body lose hold. The trainer realized now how unsure Cyndaquil was of its future. If Chris was filled with doubts and crippled by weakness, how could he not understand his Pokémon's anxiety?
"Let's get some training in buddy," Chris patted his starter's head reassuringly.
Chris made his way up the steps and emerged into a room identical to the one he had just left. At the opposite side of the room, blocking the next flight of stairs stood another sage. Unlike the one from the floor below, this sage had no facial hair whatsoever.
"There are three trials you must overcome," no emotion crossed the man's stoic face. He seemed very calm and collected. "This will be the first."
"I'm ready for anything!" Chris replied as Cyndaquil stepped forward.
"Go Bellsprout," the sage released the Flower Pokémon out of its Pokéball.
"Guess I didn't expect that…" Chris had to shake off his surprise at the overwhelming advantage he currently held.
"Let the trial of courage commence!" The sage motioned for Chris to strike first.
"Alright Cyndaquil," Chris felt himself relax as his instincts took over, "let's start things off with Tackle."
"Razor Leaf," the sage commanded plainly.
As Cyndaquil raced forward, the plant-like Pokémon fired a barrage of sharp leaves. Chris waited until the leaves were almost upon his Pokémon before directing his next move.
"Leap into the air and use smokescreen!" The trainer quickly commanded.
Cyndaquil followed its trainer's command and immersed the room with black smoke from its position above.
"You must battle me head on to achieve victory!" The elder's stern voice informed Chris. "Bellsprout, use your Sweet Scent!"
Even through the smoke, Chris could see pink pedals spinning through the air releasing a strange fragrance. The smoke quickly seemed to clear, leaving Chris baffled with the result.
"Guess we'll have to come right at you!" Chris roared, throwing any strategic plans out the window. "Blast it with Ember!"
Cyndaquil seemed to be slowed by Sweet Scent's numbing effect, but the fire starter still managed to fire off its attack.
As the inferno raced towards Bellsprout, the sage held his composure, "Spin around the attack and counter with Slam."
Chris was stunned to see Bellsprout step around the attack. Before the trainer could call out another command, Cyndaquil was smacked by the Grass Pokémon's vine. The fire starter was knocked back a few feet, but seemed relatively okay. Chris could tell that it still seemed slowed by the effects of stun spore.
"Get in close Cyndaquil!"
"Razor Leaf!" The elder directed.
As Cyndaquil charged forward, Chris immediately realized what the sage's words had meant.
"Charge right through the attack!" The trainer now knew what he must do.
The fire starter did not slow as it ran through the attack.
"Vine Whip!"
Chris knew Cyndaquil couldn't stop now. "Break on through!"
The whip like vines of Bellsprout lashed out at Cyndaquil. They struck the Fire Mouse Pokémon repeatedly, but Cyndaquil did not slow.
"Strike it down with Ember!"
A smile of recognition crossed the sage's visage as the fire starter blasted the Flower Pokémon. Bellsprout had fainted before the attack was finished.
"Well done trainer," the monk tossed Chris a Potion, "you have passed the trial of courage."
"Great job Cyndaquil!" Chris checked over his Pokémon, making sure to spray down its wounds. Once he had finished he approached the sage.
"You showed an impressive ability to adapt during our battle," the elder motioned towards the stairs behind him. "That will serve you well in your next trial. From this trial I hope you have learned to never again doubt the abilities of your Pokémon. This trial taught you to give control over to your Pokémon's determination. It takes courage to truly trust someone other than your self. Always remember the strength that lies within each of them."
Chris bowed before the monk, who returned the gesture. The elder stepped aside as Chris made his way up to the third floor.
"Woah!" Chris almost fell backwards once he reached the next level. Complete darkness had engulfed him.
"Welcome trainer," a melodic voice drifted through the shadows, "to the trial of the spirit."
"Return, Cyndaquil." Chris warped his starter back into its Pokéball. The trainer had the perfect Pokémon for this situation. "Let's go Golbat!"
The Bat Pokémon appeared out of the flash of its Pokéball for a split second before darkness swallowed it.
"Begin!" The voice stated before Chris could attempt to adjust to his surroundings.
"Golbat," Chris quickly began, "you can see quite well in the dark. I won't be able to see the opponent's moves so you have to stay sharp for me!"
"Ah," the elder's voice recognized the command, "the last trial has given you trust in your Pokémon. But will it be enough for this battle?" After a short pause he added, "Make your first move."
"Golbat use Wing Attack!" Chris commanded, listening closely for a counter.
"Lick Attack!"
Chris had to close his eyes and focus on hearing just to get an idea of what was occurring. There was the sound of a collision as both attacks struck each other. Chris was shocked to hear his own Pokémon cry out in pain.
"Golbat, what's up?"
Chris tried to listen for any irregularities that would give away a problem. After a few seconds, he noticed that the sound of Golbat's wings had become almost silent. The trainer then remembered a potential side of effect of paralysis associated with Lick.
"Try to recover your strength by stalling it with Screech!"
After Golbat released its ear-piercing screech, silence permeated the air. Chris waited to see if the attack had had its desired effect, but laughter cut through the air.
"Those types of attacks wont work on my Pokémon," the elder's words surprised Chris. "You are going to have to work together with your Pokémon to defeat my own. Golbat can not do it alone!"
"What do you think I'm trying to do!" Chris retorted, as the darkness around him weakened his concentration.
"You cannot defeat an enemy you do not even know," the elder musical voice scorned. "Night Shade!"
"Night Shade?" Chris now realized that he must be battling a Ghost Type Pokémon. "But which one?"
The trainer heard Golbat's shriek of pain and realized the Bat Pokémon was doing all it could to stay in the battle. "Golbat, I now realize, like you must, that we are battling a ghost type. Use Confuse Ray to light up the room!"
"A good strategy," the sage commended.
Chris suddenly saw his Pokémon begin to glow as pale lights of energy surrounded it. The trainer winced, but soon adjusted to the light. With a deafening shriek, the Bat Pokémon released the orbiting energy towards the opponent.
"Destroy it with Night Shade!" The sage hastily commanded.
The attack was already upon the sage's Pokémon, giving no time to dispel the attack. The pale light from the attack illuminated the opposing Pokémon, which Chris immediately recognized.
"A Ghastly!" The trainer looked over the Gas Pokémon, trying to size up its battle ability. A sudden bit of humor struck Chris, "Guess you could say this trial has a lot of spirit…"
"I have lived for fifty years," the man's voice sounded strict, but Chris knew there was a smile on his opponent's face, "and never have I heard such tasteless wit."
"At least I have your Pokémon disoriented," Chris remarked, "and that's all we'll need! Hit Ghastly with Bite Attack!"
Golbat took off towards the still illuminated Gas Pokémon. Chris could tell that the Bat Pokémon could barely move under its paralysis condition. He realized that Ghastly may have time to get off its own attack through confusion.
"Strike Golbat with your own Confuse Ray!"
Chris understood that Golbat could very easily cripple beneath two crippling conditions. He desperately looked for a way to counter the move, but realized Golbat's Bite Attack was the best shot for victory. Chris pushed his Pokémon, "Give it everything you have!"
The trainer was horrified to see a familiar light surround Ghastly, with Golbat still too far away to strike. Golbat took the attack head on and Chris saw the Pokémon writhe in anguish once the effects of the move took over.
"You have to fight it!" Chris pleaded, as he watched his Pokémon thrashing to overcome the confusion.
"Finish it off with Night Shade!"
"No!" Despite the trainer's stress, Chris felt the anxiety surrounding his body suddenly fade. The sweat that covered his body seemed to dry as he watched Ghastly charge up its attack. The trainer believed Golbat's wings were going to become useless in seconds because of paralysis. The Ghost Type Pokémon was several feet out of range, but an idea came into the trainer's head.
"I need you to hold on for just a few more seconds!" Chris shouted to his struggling Pokémon.
A wave of dark energy rippled out from Ghastly and raced towards Golbat. Just as it was about to overcome the Bat Pokémon, Chris made his move.
"Drop to the floor!" Chris quickly directed.
Golbat's wings flapped helplessly to its side as the Pokémon dropped like a stone to the wooden floor.
"Now push off the ground and strike with Bite!" Chris remembered the last trial's lesson and did not even question Golbat's remaining strength. He trusted that his Pokémon would be able to finish this battle.
The Bat Pokémon landed hard on its feet, but managed to leapt back into the air using its momentum.
"Strike it now!" Chris saw that Ghastly was immobilized by confusion.
Golbat's teeth slashed through the Gas Pokémon's intangible body, making Chris believe the attack hadn't phased it. Before the trainer could call out to his Pokémon, he noticed the expression on the Ghost Pokémon's face. It had fainted.
"You have passed the trial of the spirit," the man announced, as light suddenly appeared from candles surrounding the room.
Despite the sudden exposure of light, Chris was not bothered, much to his surprise. Chris looked across the room and saw that the sage had returned Ghastly to its Pokéball. The man's appearance was almost identical to that of his previous opponent.
"Hm." The monk studied Chris as he treated Golbat's wounds. He kept up his examining stare as the trainer approached him.
"If you hadn't of lighted up the whole room with that Confuse Ray," Chris explained with a smile, "I never would have seen Ghastly and won this battle."
"This trial tests the connection between trainer and Pokémon," the sage stated, his eyes never leaving Chris' own. "The spirit of battle and camaraderie should run deep between trainer and Pokémon. I see now that this holds particularly true for you." A grin appeared on the elder's face. "The light from Ghastly's attack faded almost immediately. You connected with your Pokémon in the heat of battle and saw through its eyes what yours could not."
"I did?" Chris was almost floored by this revelation. He hadn't even scratched the surface on the depths of battling. A feeling of humility struck Chris, and he bowed to the sage. "Thank you sir."
"We have tested your Pokémon and now your bond with Pokémon," the monk seemed to have a sense of urgency in his voice. Whatever he was about to say was of the utmost importance. "You have cast aside the doubts surrounding your Pokémon. And now you have forsaken any doubt in your connection with them. This next trial will be the most important of them all. I do not believe I need to tell you what the final challenge will test."
No, Chris believed he now understood what the final trial would be about. Or who it will be about, Chris surmised silently.
The monk gave a bow and stepped aside. Chris thanked the elder and began up the stairs.
"This is it," Chris did not bother withdrawing a Pokéball from his belt. He didn't think his Pokémon would be involved in the final test.
The trainer from Cherrygrove City reached the top of the stair and was relieved to see the room well lit.
"Welcome trainer," a familiar voiced greeted Chris, "to your final trial."
"So you're my last opponent," Chris felt his eyes narrow in on the bearded sage. The same man who had greeted him when he first entered the tower.
"Actually, in the trial of the self," the elder's voice still had its calming quality, "you are."
Chris remembered the importance placed on this trial by the last monk. He took a deep breath and waited for a command. He was surprised to hear a much friendlier voice speak to him.
"By the way, my name is Li!" There was almost a lackadaisical tone to his voice. "I am the Elder Sage of this temple. Through battle, we will see the depths of your heart, much in the same way we looked at your courage and spirit."
"So there will be a Pokémon battle…" Chris breathed, as he thought about the two healthy Pokémon he had left.
"Oh yes," the Elder Sage chuckled, pulling a Pokéball out from beneath his robe. "As I told you when we first met, battling is a way of life. It casts aside all doubts from a trainer. I cannot reinforce this issue enough. This trial will not be about your Pokémon."
"Fair enough," Chris understood the monk's words. He withdrew a Pokéball, knowing that the Pokémon inside was his best remaining option. "Let's go, Nidoran!"
The Poison Pin Pokémon burst out from the device looking primed and ready to battle.
"I can always count on you to be hyped for a battle!" Chris felt himself being energized by the feisty Pokémon.
"Noctowl shall be my companion for this battle." The Owl Pokémon flew into the air as it was released. It, like Nidoran, had already entered the battle mentally. "Are you ready?"
"Yes." Chris could feel a mix of nerves and excitement clashing in his stomach. He did his best to shrug the feeling off. This battle would take every ounce of his concentration.
"Then let the trial of the self begin!"
For a brief moment, there was complete calm on the battlefield. Chris sized up his opponent's for a split second, trying to find a weakness.
"Let's bring some aggression with Fury Attack!" Chris wanted to come out of the gate rumbling after the slow pace of his previous battle.
"Battle back with Zen Headbutt!"
The two Pokémon crashed into one another, with each delivering clean blows. Noctowl pushed through Nidoran's first strike, knocking the Pokémon back several feet. Before it could get back into the air however, the second and third strikes from Nidoran's attack struck home.
"Way to stick with your attack!" Chris complemented. He realized his best bet was to keep the battle up tempo. "Now how about a Tackle Attack!"
"Echoed Voice." The Elder directed as the Owl Pokémon turned to face Nidoran.
The trident shaped feathers on Noctowl's forehead illuminated as the Pokémon released a haunting cry. The visible sound waves rippled out and raced towards Chris' Pokémon.
"Run straight at the attack!" The trainer commanded, and was relieved to see his Pokémon comply. He had to remember to trust his team.
The Poison Pin Pokémon never broke stride as it closed in on the attack. Right as the trainer thought it might be too late, he issued his next order.
"Leap over the attack!"
With precision timing, Nidoran pounced over the pulsing sound waves and glided towards Noctowl. Its Tackle Attack would pack a greater punch from the momentum it had built up.
"Knock it away with Air Slash!"
The Owl Pokémon drew back its wings before clapping them together, creating a powerful blast of air.
"Push through, Nidoran!" Chris knew his Pokémon could not avoid the attack now.
The razor sharp blade of wind splashed over Nidoran, like a crashing wave. For a moment, the Poison Pin Pokémon looked as if it had broken through.
"No!" Chris exclaimed as the condensed wind behind the blade slammed into Nidoran.
Chris' Pokémon flipped backwards through the air as the wind roared by. The Poison Pin Pokémon smashed back first into the wooden floor, knocking the wind out of it. Before Chris could encourage his Pokémon to recover, sound waves from Noctowl's previous attack ricocheted off the wall nearby and crushed into the exposed stomach of Nidoran. The trainer could see his Pokémon struggling to breathe as the Echoed Voice attacked weighed down upon it.
"You can't force your way out of it!" Chris remembered the lesson he had learned from his last trial. He must communicate and understand what his Pokémon is experiencing and feeling. "Roll to the side to escape the attack!"
Through sheer determination, the Poison Pin Pokémon managed to spin away from the reverberating attack. Chris looked back at the spot his Pokémon had been and was shocked to find a deep indention in the wood. His Pokémon could be seriously injured.
"I can't doubt my Pokémon!" Chris' could feel his teeth grinding together as he tried to keep Nidoran out of harm's way.
"Air Slash once more!" The sage now showed no emotion as he studied the trainer's decisions.
"Nidoran," Chris tried to remain strong for his Pokémon, "I know you're probably still reeling from that last attack, but we have to stay strong! Let's counter this attack by moving laterally!" The trainer now saw that with Noctowl's angle there was no way to go over or underneath the attack.
Nidoran sprinted towards a nearby wall as the blast of wind raced by it. Nidoran turned on a dime and continued charging towards its opponent.
Chris was thrilled to see his Pokémon accurately predict his next move, "Knock it out of the sky with Horn Attack!"
Nidoran complied with the order, catching the Owl Pokémon on the chin with its horn. The strike knocked Noctowl towards the ground, but Li's Pokémon recovered in time to avoid hitting the floor.
"You learn quickly." The Elder Sage complimented the trainer. "You uncovered the angle of my attack after seeing it once and discovered the opening in Noctowl's defense after Air Slash."
"You said this was a test of the individual's ability right?" Chris smirked, seeing his ability to adapt impress the monk. "I'm showing you what I know!"
"This trial is about much more than your knowledge of battle," the elder's brow furrowed as he spoke, "a trainer's true strength lies within their actions."
"Then let's see what I can do!" Chris felt adrenaline coursing through his veins. This feeling indicated to Chris the importance of this battle. He must win. "Follow it up with Fury Attack!"
"You are becoming overconfident!" The Elder Sage stated firmly. "Use FeatherDance, Noctowl."
Opening its wings, Noctowl unleashed a storm of feathers. Nidoran was too close to avoid the attack, and took it head on.
"Don't back down!" Chris pushed, despite not knowing the move's effect. "We'll have an opening if you can make it through!"
The hurricane of feathers quickly disappeared and Chris was thrilled to see his Pokémon still charging forward. The elder remained silent, most likely aware of his Pokémon's inevitable vulnerability.
"There you go!" Chris roared as Nidoran delivered multiple strikes to Noctowl's chest.
"It will not be enough." Sage Li nodded towards Chris' Pokémon. "Its attack has been weakened by FeatherDance's effect."
Chris was shocked to see the Owl Pokémon take every strike of Nidoran's horn without budging. The trainer was running out of options.
"Echoed Voice!"
From this close proximity, Nidoran would have almost no chance of dodging the attack. A strategy from Chris' previous battle with Ghastly suddenly popped into the trainer's head.
"Drop to the floor!"
The Poison Pin Pokémon ducked underneath the attack at the last possible moment. With its rapid descent, Nidoran slammed onto the floor feet first. Chris saw that it had been momentarily stunned by its landing, which only added to his growing frustration.
"Zen Headbutt!" The elder sage's voice was filled with pity, enraging the beginning trainer.
Both Chris and Nidoran were powerless to stop this follow up attack. Noctowl slammed its glowing body into Nidoran's back, which dropped the Pokémon instantly.
"You have to get up Nidoran!" Chris pleaded, but to no avail. This match was over.
A rumbling sound filled Chris' ears, causing the trainer to look behind him. The powerful sound wave from Noctowl's Echoed Voice ricocheted off of the wall and headed straight towards Nidoran.
"No!" Chris felt his body freeze just as it had done before the trainer started the trials. Pain swelled into his heart as Noctowl's attack smashed into Chris' helpless Pokémon. The trainer tried to run towards Nidoran, but his feet, like the rest of his body, remained immobile. Even the trainer's mouth could not open to produce a cry.
"Zen Headbutt again!" Li's voice had become cold as ice.
Chris looked on in silent horror as his opponent attempted to maim Nidoran. The Poison Pin Pokémon suddenly rose to its feet as a bright aura surrounded its body. The trainer recognized it as Focus Energy, but he still could produce no words of encouragement. No direction.
"A Pokémon battling without its trainer's guidance…" The elder shook his head in disappointment, "How sad. It must not see enough strength in you."
Chris wanted to protest. To fight this man who wished to cripple his Pokémon. But his body would not let him move a muscle. Doubts raced through the young trainer's mind. He was not strong enough to complete the Johto League Challenge. He did not have the perseverance to uncover the mysteries of Pokémon and their connection with humans. Chris did not even possess the drive to win this battle.
Nidoran rose onto its front feet and struck out with its back feet. Chris was too wrapped up in his own thoughts to recognize the new move as Double Kick. Despite regaining a great deal of its strength from Focus Energy, Noctowl's attack broke through. The Poison Pin Pokémon collapsed once again. It was obvious that it wouldn't be getting up again.
"Finish it with Sky Attack!" The sage's voice was filled with rage.
A powerful move like that hitting a fainted Nidoran…
"No." Chris uttered the word so quietly, he wasn't sure if he actually said it. His body was moving again, though this time it seemed to be out of his control. He was running towards Nidoran. "NO!"
Noctowl had finished charging its attack and was slashing towards Nidoran, its body radiating brightly. The trainer dove onto his Pokémon, scooping the unconscious Nidoran into his arms. Chris waited for Noctowl to strike, to put an exclamation point on the battle, but the blow never came.
Chris raised his head and found only the sage before him. The elder ushered Nidoran out of Chris' vice grip and walked over to a Bellsprout statue that stood close by. He moved aside a panel at its base and withdrew a strange looking berry. After several tries, the elder managed to get Chris' Pokémon to swallow it. After several seconds, Chris saw Nidoran's breathing return to normal.
The trainer did not know any words of anger or appreciation to share. Instead, he walked over to the Elder Sage and waited.
"Almost every trainer that has ever sought out Sprout Tower," the monk's words seemed so distant, "has failed for one reason. They did not understand the relationship they had with their Pokémon. The pursuits of these men and women are self-fulfilling. Their hearts' ambitions are set on power and recognition. Pokémon are only tools to be used to further their goals."
As he listened, every word seemed to pierce Chris' heart. This explanation was describing him.
"Only cowards stand by and let their Pokémon take a beating for them. They are selfish, arrogant beings not worthy to be called trainers."
Chris could feel the man reading this thoughts and feelings through his bright green eyes. Their locked gaze was leaving nothing secret.
"I see the look in your eyes," a small chuckle passed though the elder's lips. "You still have much to learn as an individual. There will be many situations which require you to rise above your limitations. To be bigger than those around you. Not for your benefit, but for the world around you. You are not one of the lost that I have just described. Despite the faults that you displayed in the trials today, you have proven that your strength of will and goals are pure. You are worthy to be called a Pokémon trainer and you have passed the trial of self."
"I…" Chris stopped before he made a fool of himself. Instead, he simply bowed to the Elder who had just shaken the foundation of the trainer's being. Chris expected to feel a sense of doubt about what he had just heard, but the words rang true in Chris' head. He had proven himself as a trainer.
"Do not think you can now head outside and take on the world!" Li once again identified Chris' thoughts. "The Gym Leaders in this region are some of the toughest trainers in the world. They have reached a level that most trainers never even approach. But even great trainers like those have had to develop themselves one step at a time. Including your brother, Matt."
Chris felt a multitude of questions rise up within him. Before he could speak, the Elder Sage handed Chris his recovering Pokémon. After steadying his shaky hand, Chris returned Nidoran to its Pokéball.
"You remind me a lot of him," Li shook his head as a smile crossed his face, "but there is something different in your eyes…"
"His were blue," Chris croaked, as his voice gave out.
"I'm sure that is what it is…" The elder chuckled.
Both men bowed, displaying the respect that had been earned during their battle. Chris felt that this place had become like a second home to him. This man's kindness and his wisdom felt like it was from a grandfather, not a stranger.
"The three monks you have battled today," Li was full of laughter now, "some ignorant fool gave us the title of Wise Trio. If you ever need anything, you know where to look."
"Thank you sir."
Chris exited the tower and stepped out into the cool night air. He made his way through the streets, feeling as if he had gotten to know them over the past day. In no time he had reached the Pokémon Center, where he handed his team over to Nurse Joy for healing.
"There is an available room in the visitor's center that you are welcome to use!" The nurse informed him with a smile.
"That would be great."
Once Chris had taken off his backpack, he collapsed onto the bed still fully dressed. As sleep quickly overtook him, his last thoughts were of Matt and of the Violet City Gym.
Closing- If you are reading this now, then I'm guessing you're still with me! Hope you enjoyed Chris' adventures so far inside Violet City. A Gym Battle is fast approaching! Will you be ready? Hope to see you again here in a few weeks! See ya soon!
