Pokemon: Legacy

by CHALDO

Archie Ames and his two best friends are finally 16 years old. That means they’re old enough to join the Xelandria Regions 31st Badge Run. I have Chapters 1-5 available now, and will shoot for a new chapter each Monday!

Pokémon: Legacy

CHAPTER 1: Eggs

"Treecko, use pound!" I exclaim, pointing ahead at my best friend and the Pokémon he's training with.

"Grookey, dodge it, then use scratch!" Noah screams in excitement as the battle rages on.

Treecko dashes in, kicking its foot off of an oak tree in the field it to catapult itself forward, it jumps in the air and twists to hit Grookey. But, with a quick reaction, Grookey is able to hop out of the way, and counter Treecko during the shockwave of the pound attack missing, quickly it retaliates with a scratch directly onto Treecko's back. Treecko riles out in pain, but quickly snarls and jumps back in the battle.

Noah - Great hit, Grookey! Be ready to dodge and counter again!

Archie - Treecko, use leafage on the ground in front of Grookey, and then follow it up with another pound!

Grookey lands and bangs the ground with its stick out of joy of hitting the attack. Which is put to a quick end when he is bombarded by a swirl of small leaves, and as it shields its eyes from the dust of the attack, Treecko follows the attack up directly with pound right onto Grookey's forehead. Grookey hits the ground and is unable to battle.

Treecko and Archie win. Archie - YEEEES I TOLD YOU TREECKO WAS BETTER!

Noah - Grookey did just fine, just doesn't have the move set to win yet! Why did you use leafage? It's not even effective against Grookey?

Archie - As a distraction! I knew it would throw you off, plus I knew Treecko was fast based off of that first jump, so I could use blocking Grookey's sight to our advantage and win!

"WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU TWO DOING?! Are you battling with the new Pokémon AGAIN?! How will I be able to sell them with knots on their heads due to battling?" My mom came in angrily questioning.

Archie - Mom! It's all good, we're just testing the Pokémon and making sure they're good to go for the future trainers of the Xelandria region to battle.

Mom - Yeah, it's not your job to see if the Pokémon are able to battle, you two are just helping to raise them so they can be adopted. Not lowering the price by giving all of the Pokemon bumps on the heads due to your constant battling.

Noah - I'm sorry ma'am, I promise, it won't happen again...

Mom - Yeah, I've heard that before, in fact, I believe the last time was what YESTERDAY?! You boys don't ever stop the battling! I'm glad you all turn 16 tomorrow and will be ready to begin training for your Badge Run, and stop lowering the price of the farm's Pokémon.

Archie - Hey, hey, hey! Think of it as an investment, mom! We aren't just training the Pokémon, we're training ourselves. We may be lowering the price of a few Pokémon, but once we're all on every tv in the region, it'll do nothing but boost your sales!

Mom - Hahahah! We can sure hope so! But speaking of all of your birthdays, go and grab Naomi, I have a big surprise for y'all!

Noah - Yes, ma'am... Again, we're sorry... Just training up before it's too late.

Mom - It's fine, Noah. With Harmony around and helping as much as she has been, I've expected this from you two. Just go and grab your jackets too, it's super cold out today. I had to put the younger Pokémon up earlier, and don't want you guys catching colds!

Noah and I grab our jackets and head down the road from my family's farm to his house to grab his twin sister, Naomi. It's always cold because where we live is called Preya Village, and it's in the Far West of the Xelandria region. Our village is planted in the foothills of the Blackstone Mountains, which are only known for 3 things; cold weather, strong Pokémon, and Acoustica City. Acoustica City is home to the "Music Gym" it's 1 of 12 gyms in this region. With Gym Leader, Harmony. Who is conveniently my cousin, and one of the big reasons my family's breeding farm is so successful. Being able to sell the offspring of a powerful gym leaders Pokémon brings in quite the profit.

Noah - Man, your mom wasn't lying, it feels like I'm hugging a Glalie out here today.

Archie - *Fist pumping and jumping up and down* I'm too excited to be cold! I know what her surprise is! Wanna know?!

Noah - Of course I do. *His eyes growing in anticipation*

Archie - We're getting our eggs today! Harmony showed me a few days ago.

Noah - For real?! Dude, I think I may love your mom. *Winking at me* I'm surprised she's giving us another Pokémon. This is the second one from her in 6 months. That's huge!

Archie - Ew man, you're absolutely disgusting. But jokes on you, because your sister loves me. *Playfully punching Noah's arm* But yeah man, she must be REALLY tired of us messing with her Pokémon then, huh? We get to start our training with two official Pokemon man, that's amazing. But what I'm most ready for is this Badge Run to go ahead and begin. I don't know if I have it in me to wait 6 more months. What do I do if I don't qualify?!

Noah - You'd help your family out on the farm like a good little son, is what you'd do! And you're the one in love with Naomi.

Archie - One of these days she'll feel the same!

We both laugh it off. And as we make it halfway down the road, we feel the breeze blow harder and start to hit the back of our necks, so we run the rest of the way to try and warm up even just a little bit. It's a beautiful day today minus this cold weather. The sky is a light blue with clouds patterned throughout, like in a screensaver. Staravia and Pidgeot are flying, Tauros are grazing the fields around, and Ribombee playing in the flowers along the path. We finally reach Noah's house, and it's as alive as always, the flowers outside are bright Oranges and blues and reds, the chimney is puffing smoke, and the lawn is nice and clean cut. With the area we live in it's cold 85% of the time, so my mom is always jealous at how good Noah and Naomi's mom can grow plants with the weather. We walk up and are met at the door by Noah's family Pokémon, Growlithe.

"Grow-Lithe!" It pants excitedly as we walk through the door.

We lean over, and greet Growlithe with excited pats on the head, and back rubs, taking our shoes off and running into Noah's mom in the kitchen.

"Hey there, boys! It's really cold outside, I have some fresh soup on the stove if you would like to warm yourselves up!" Noah's mom, Elizabeth kindly exclaimed.

Archie - Thank you so much, Miss Elizabeth! But we're actually here to grab Naomi if she's free. My mom is wanting us all to meet her for our "surprise" eggs! She also said that you should feel free to come along if you'd like to.

Elizabeth - *chuckling that I know my mom's secret. * You better at least act surprised when she shows you, or she's going to hit you and Harmony. But, I'd be happy to go! I would like to talk with your mom, Archie. So I'll meet you guys there actually. And I'm taking the soup, so you boys actually eat something warm. See you guys in a bit!

Archie and Noah - Yes ma'am.

Miss Sierra turns off the stove top, grabs the pot, and begins her journey up the road to the farm. Noah and I stand at the base of the stairs, and holler to his sister. I always get little butterflies in my stomach before I see Naomi. We've been friends for years, but as we've aged, we've become far more flirtatious with one another.

Archie - Can we keep the eggs a secret from Naomi?

Noah - Aww you're so freaking sweet dude. *Sarcastic smile* Naooooooooooooomi! Archie and I are here. Ms. Chloe wants us to come over and eat dinner!

"YAY! And I know a secret!" Naomi screams as she bursts out of her room with a wide, toothy smile.

Naomi has long Auburn hair that comes to the mid of her back, it's a nice mix of curly and straight. She is roughly 5 foot 3 inches tall, and has large green doe eyes, with a pattern of freckles only on her right cheek. Noah shares her hair color, which is usually swooshed over to the right side. He also has the same freckle pattern but on his left cheek rather than his right. He stands at about 5 foot 7 inches tall. I stand around the same height as Noah. But I've been growing at a faster rate here lately. I have light brown hair that is shorter than Noah's. I can't stand my hair touching my ears if I can avoid it. With the top of my hair styled to the right side.

Naomi - Hey losers. Harmony told me a secret that she said she wouldn't tell either of you.

Noah - *looking over at me with a blank face knowing what her secret is* Come on, tell us your secret, Nay. Please, make it a birthday present!

Naomi - NOPE! She specifically said and I quote. DO NOT TELL THE BOYS.

Archie - Is it about the *hiding my face from Noah as I mouth the word* E-G-G-S?

Naomi - She told you?!

Archie - Of course she did. I bet I knew WAAAAAY before you.

Noah - I know about the eggs too, stupid.

Naomi - Oh my God. Harmony will just spill the beans on anything, now won't she?!

Archie - She caves so easily. Can't trust her.

Noah - Why didn't she tell me?!

Naomi - Because she wants to be different from her mom, and her mom loves you.

Noah - She only told you because you have a crush on Arch.

Naomi - *blushing* No she didn't. I'm leaving now, so you guys can follow if you'd like.

Naomi runs down the stairs, meeting us and slamming the door behind her as we begin our walk back up the hill through the heart of Preya Village. It really isn't much of a village, but it's been home. A lot of land where we can roam free. Strong Pokémon in either direction but nestled in the foothills of the mountain with hordes of weaker Pokémon perfect for us to practice our training with our starter Pokémon we received just a few months ago.

Naomi - This is definitely in the top 5 for happiest day of my life. You boys please don't battle or do anything stupid. I just want to get there and see the eggs hatch.

Archie - That was the plan! What're you hoping for?

Naomi - I want something cute and strong! Like a Ralts, or Ribombee, or something! I know the types! I assume you do too with loudmouth Harmony at the house. I'm getting a Fairy Type, Noah is getting a Dragon Type, but I didn't get to see Archie's.

Noah - I get a Dragon Type?!

Archie - Of course you do. If I had to bet, Mom picked out Naomi's Pokémon. Harmony picked out mine. And that leaves Aunt Clair picking out yours.

Naomi - That's what I'd assume too. I saw a dragon egg and just knew it was his. But if I get fairy that means I'll beat you.

Noah - We'll see! You haven't beaten me yet! Armorouge hasn't lost a single time to your Alolan Ninetails.

Naomi - We've come awful close. And for the type advantage, I'd hope you win.

Archie - Hahaha, neither has beaten Excadrill yet though! We're still.. What is it? 10-0?

Noah - 0-6 against Harmony though. *Slapping my back jokingly*

Naomi - Guys we're really doing it.. We get to begin our journey finally.

Noah - *Choking on his words* I can't believe it's finally here. I'm so happy I get to do it with you two. I have to run ahead before I begin crying. I'll see you two there.

Archie - Hahaha, you're good buddy! See you in a bit. I'm really happy I'm doing this with you two as well.

As Noah leaves, I use this as a time to bend down and grab one of the Blue Roses off to the side of the road, and I give it to Naomi because they're her favorite.

Naomi - *blushing* Thanks, Arch. I'm really glad you'll be along for this journey too.

Archie - All of the places we're going to go?! All of the cool things we're going to do? I wouldn't wanna do it with anyone else.

Naomi - *turning her face away from me* I.. I'm going to catch up to Noah really quick. See you at the farm!

I stand back, watching my two best friends in the whole world run up the road. We're not far at all now. I can hear the waterfalls in the back, the swaying of the trees in the wind. To the left of me is part of the field connected to our farm. There are Mudsdale, Miltank, and Mabostiff lounging around.

My mom and I live there, along with my cousin Harmony who stays with us during the downtime in between Badge Runs. She likes to come and help the farm out. It's a family-owned farm, created by mine and Harmony's grandparents. Harmony's mother, Clair is a well-respected gym leader in the Johto region where they still do gyms based off of a Pokémon's typing and not theme based gyms like most regions are moving to. So, she isn't around often, due to the travel. But it used to house her Pokémon and breed them, and now we have the privilege of breeding both Aunt Clair and Harmony's Pokémon. And Noah, Naomi, and my Pokémon one day, hopefully. I reach the door last. Entering to see the table with Naomi, my mom, Mrs. Barlowe, Noah, and standing tending to the fire, is an athletic figure. She stands up in her blue jean coveralls with her long blue hair down, and not in the traditional ponytail.

"How in the world are you ALWAYS the last one in?! I expected you to walk in with your little girlfriend!" Harmony teases at us.

Archie - Oh shut up, I was barely behind them. *Smiling at my hero* I'm glad you could be here today! I thought you were going back to Acoustica today.

Harmony - I really should! But I helped breed these Pokémon for you guys, and I'll be damned if I miss this! You guys receive your second Pokémon. But "first official" Pokémon.

Mom - And as you all know, I'm not permitted to give traditional starter Pokémon. We have no Pokémon professors in the family, so sadly I can't do a traditional Fire, Water, Grass starter for you. But we have been busy breeding you guys some special eggs!

Archie - WHAT?! WE'RE GETTING EGGS TODAY?!

Mom - Boy, shut up. Elizabeth already told me you know.

Archie - Yeah, seems like the whole region knows thanks to Ms. Music Gym over here.

Harmony - Hahaha! I only told Naomi and you, smartass.

Naomi - That's okay, Ms. Ames! You're known throughout the region for breeding some of the best Pokémon! Plus being able to train with one of the strongest Gym Leaders in the region, we have it made. Don't worry about that. And yeah, Archie. Do you know how hard it has been to keep this secret?! I had to spill it today, just couldn't hold it anymore.

Mom - Well thank you, sweetie. Don't be worried at all though! You all have immaculate Pokémon, I'm sure of that. And with our luck here lately, I'll bet at least one of them is shiny!

Elizabeth - Oh could you imagine? You have been breeding a huge number of shiny Pokémon lately though. Are you doing anything special?

Mom - We started a new breeding method, just crossing regions! For all of yours we did the same thing! No guarantees, but it's at least a possibility.

Noah - Just the possibility of it has me excited. But you said immaculate?! So, we have a leg up on most new trainers having two immaculate Pokémon!

Archie - Our poor competition. Where's Excadrill at?! I want him to be here to see our new partner!

Harmony - Already thought y'all would want your friends here!

As she says that, Armorouge, Excadrill, and an Alolan Ninetails all stand up in the next room, where our new eggs are. I run over to Excadrill, crouch down, and give him some berries I've had stored in my pockets all day.

Archie - Hey buddy! Are you ready to get a new friend today?! We're going to get so strong.

"Exca. Drill!" My partner Pokémon shouts out.

Harmony - We've worked HARD on these Pokémon. When she says "immaculate" she means IMMACULATE. Not only are they perfect IVs, they also according to the x-rays should be huge.

Archie - *my eyes glistening with excitement* Thank you guys!

Noah - Hey, Harmony. Is your mom coming?

Harmony - Sadly, no. She's really busy in Johto still. She tried to leave, but with their season never really ending, it's hard for her to get away. She's upset that none of you are going to receive a Horsea today though. BUT she did handpick your Pokémon out for you, Noah.

Naomi - Could you give us a hint as to what Pokémon we ARE getting?!

Harmony - Sure! Every single one of them is a single staged Pokémon.

Mom - Harmony! They weren't supposed to know yet. But yes. That's right. We figured with 6 months to go, you should be worried about training up, and not leveling and evolving. You all will need to still go out and catch Pokémon ASAP starting tomorrow though.

Harmony - Yes you will. You turn 16 tomorrow, so lucky for you guys, you get to start officially catching Pokémon! Tomorrow you will all receive a Pokeball for your partner Pokémon as well. You helped raise them, and claimed them, but tomorrow, they'll be your official Pokémon.

Elizabeth - Knowing them *pointing at Noah and me, there will be a catching competition tomorrow.

Mom - *eyeing Noah and I* Yeah, I'm sure there will. But as long as it's not the new Pokémon being battled, that's a step up for me.

Archie - There sure will be! And much like those battles, I'll win.

Noah - You just copy Harmony. Catching is a brand-new thing for all of us, you don't stand a chance.

Archie - I sure do, she wins! I have a few more tricks up my sleeve. Wait til you see. Tomorrow Excadrill and my new Pokemon vs Armorouge and your new one.

Harmony - Enough fighting. You'll have PLENTY of time to do that after tonight. For now, Mrs. Barlowe, I'm starving. Could I please break into that pot of soup?

Elizabeth - Of course, Harmony! I made plenty of it. It's baked potato!

We all gather around the table and eat. With enough left over for our Pokémon, Growlithe, mom's Stoutland, and Harmony's Meloetta to have a bowl as well.

Archie - Having a Meloetta at the table is a wild flex.

Harmony - Hahah! She's hungry too. We'll actually come with y'all tomorrow to help you all catch a few Pokémon. You need a whole team to begin the Gym Run.

Noah - Yeah, good thing we're almost there.

Naomi - So we have to catch 4 Pokémon in 6 months? That sounds easy!

Archie - Yeah, we'll have that in no time! We'll catch all 4 and then some by then.

Mom - Well I'll happily take the "and then some" here if you guys need it. No need to pay any other farm to store your Pokemon. Hopefully you guys make good names for yourselves! I'll have 5 celebrities Pokemon in here. I will miss my helpers though. Especially you Naomi, you have been by far the most help. And least destructive.

Naomi - Not a problem, Ms. Chloe! I have enjoyed it. You and Harmony have taught me so much in the last few years. I couldn't repay that knowledge any other way.

We suddenly hear a loud rumble coming from the room next to us, with Ninetails shrieking.

Naomi - What is it girl?

RumbleRumble*

Naomi's egg is silver in color, with pink dots on the shell, it begins shaking and turning and hatching.

Mom - It's happening! I thought we still may have a little bit.

Naomi's egg shakes a few more times, then a long crack running along the top, to the bottom begins forming. The edges of the crack begin pounding. When all of a sudden a purple beak breaks through the shell.

Mawile was hatched out of an egg. *

Naomi - She's beautiful!

Mom - And shiny!

Harmony - Wow. I really did think a shiny was a possibility. But the first one?! Sorry Noah and Arch. That can't be good for your odds. But yes! We chose a Mawile for you. Aunt Chloe picked yours out, and we know you already have a fairy type, but we felt like a Mawile was the perfect Pokemon for you. You mentioned wanting a team with beautiful Pokemon. For this one we wanted to give you untraditional beauty. To hopefully help you realize that beauty can have a terrific bite.

Naomi - Thank you Harmony, Ms. Chloe. This means the world to me. *She begins patting Mawile's beak*

Noah - Ooooooh I think it's my turn now!

Rumble*

Noah's egg, is a dark blue egg with red swirls going up the sides of it. It begins rumbling as well, almost as if hearing the excitement in the room, it wanted to come out and see what was going on. No cracks form, but out of nowhere a hole blasts from the egg, the egg piece landing at Noah's foot. A small flame exudes out of the hole, then another piece of egg rockets out as well.

*Turtonator was hatched out of an egg*

Noah - That's amazing! I get to start with a dragon is amazing!

Harmony - Yeah! Mom wanted one of you to get a dragon type. She thought you were the best fit! You seem to lack confidence when battling with Archie. Now you have one of the strongest types in the Pokemon world. Again, I'm sorry for the fire type repeat for you, but Turtonator should be a huge obstacle for most opponents, so you should start every battle with the confidence of a dragon.

Naomi - He looks strong and ready to battle already! Archie, you better look out in that battle tomorrow.

Archie - Oh, I'm not worried about that! Dragon type or not, Excadrill is ready! Plus that little guy should be here any minute. *Pointing at the black and white egg remaining*

Noah - *Playing with his newly hatched Pokémon* Awwww buddy, are you sad yours is the last to come out?!

Harmony - I'm a bit shocked myself! Your egg had the most spunk this entire time, now it's just still.

Archie - You think it's, okay?! *Walks over and picks up egg*

WHOOOOOSH*

An attack comes from inside the egg, barely missing my arm

Harmony - There it is! It wasn't shy at all, just ready to battle like you. I picked this one out for you.

WHOOOOSH*

A second attack similar to the first one comes in almost the same spot. splitting the egg a bit more open.

WHOOOOOOSH* a third

WHOOOOOOSH* a fourth.

Harmony - Oh boy it's lively. Not even hatched and a perfect match for you. And as you can see, all of your eggs got an egg move! Yours, Archie, is Aerial Ace.

WHOOOOOSH*

The attack splits the egg in two finally revealing a black coat, and a white horn and tail, with a piercing blue eye staring into my eyes.

Mom - Wha...?

Harmony - Am.. Am I seeing correctly?

*Absol was hatched out of an egg*

Archie - Is this normal? Don't get me wrong. I absolutely love it. But that's not a normal or a shiny Absol.

Mom - I-I-I have no clue. It's as if the colors are inverted. I've never heard of such a thing. I have to make a call; I'll be right back.

Harmony - We-Well. Archie. We'll look into this color here, but I chose Absol for you because you're so gung-ho in battle. Absol is an incredibly strong Pokemon, but is known as a "glass cannon" So you will have to use more of YOUR strategy going forward, and not mine. If you battle me with my own strategy, you'll lose. I want you to take my strategy if you want, I'd be honored, but make it your own.

WHOOOOOSH*

Absol sends another attack flying, nearly hitting Excadrill.

"EXCA!" Excadrill begins preparing to use Drill Run, but I jump in, stopping him.

Archie - No, it's okay buddy! We're figuring this out.

I reach my hand out and touch the white mark on Absol's forehead. Massaging, and trying to calm my new Pokémon down.

Archie - It's okay! I'm here for you. Absol, this is Excadrill, he's, our friend. You and he will be doing a lot of travelling and battling with each other soon.

Excadrill stands, extending its claw out in a friendly gesture. And Absol bows her head in understanding. So, I'm able to sit, with both of my Pokémon huddled in muy arms.

Harmony - Good thing it seems to like you! I think she was scared coming out of the egg. Probably worried about all of the noise going on.

Noah - Buddy, can I pet it? I've never seen a Pokémon with an inverted color scheme. And can't say I've seen one on my Rotom phone ever.

Naomi - Yeah, Arch. I've never heard of that. That's really amazing for you.

Sierra - And scary too... Poachers have gotten bad... You need to train fast, and hard.

Archie - I will for sure. I'll never let anything happen to either of them.

Mom - *Out of breath, running from the kitchen, with her rotom phone on a face call with Aunt Clair* See look! Clair, this is possibly the first time this has ever happened!

"Oh my goodness! I didn't believe you. I've never seen that before! Shiny's themselves are extremely rare. This may be the 1 in a billion." Aunt Clair says excitedly from the phone screen.

Harmony - Hey mom! I was about to call you myself. I want any advice before I go to the Pokémon League about registering these Pokémon.

Clair - Hey sweetie! You have to go to the League still... But Archie, this is going to bring a lot of attention your way. You won't have the privilege of beginning this Badge Run like any normal kid. Everybody in the Xelandria Region and further are going to know about the boy and his black Absol.

Archie - That's okay! Just more people for us to beat!

Clair - You sound just like, Harmony! I don't normally condone doing this. But I'm going to send something in the mail to you. It should be there soon. It's an Absolite. Train hard with it. Get close with it. You will get good attention, and bad. Being able to mega evolve, may be the thing that stops Poachers. Noah, and Naomi. Congratulations to the both of you on your Pokemon! Noah, welcome to the Dragon trainer's club! I don't have anything to send you guys on this. I'm sorry. I have each of you 20 Ultra Balls that should be there tomorrow. Catch, train, and become strong. Archie will need your help now more than ever. He's confident, and that's a great quality to have, but this may be one of the rarest moments in Pokémon history.

Noah and Naomi - Yes ma'am, we promise.

Mom - Okay, Clair. I love you. I have to call around to a few more people. *Mom's Rotom phone's screen disappears*

Harmony - Alright guys. I'll officially let the League know of this. 2/3 eggs being different colors, and one 1/2 of those being a brand-new rarity? Aunt Chloe, prepare yourself to be extremely busy.

Mom - Elizabeth, do you mind helping out here for a few days?! I'll pay you.

Elizabeth - Of course, Chloe! I'll be here early in the morning to start preparing the food.

Mom - Thank you! Kids, I don't think it's good for you to be here tomorrow. Harmony, can you take them tonight? As soon as news breaks, it's going to be hell for them.

Harmony - Sure can! You're all going to learn to catch tomorrow anyways, so let's just leave out tonight, and go camping at the base of the mountain. We can have Armorouge and Turtonator light fires and keep us warm. I do need to go back to Acoustica in a few days though. I have my match with Harry coming up and can't miss it. PLUS, I'm auditioning to be in the Elite 4 after this Badge Run. But I can take Archie with me. Nobody will know he's in Acoustica, and my gym and house are off limits to the press and the public in the off season. So, you can come up there and train for a few months.

Archie - That sounds good! Thank you, guys. And we'll get strong together. *Looking at Excadrill and Absol* Both of my Pokémon seem to have a really strong battle sense already. I'm sure we'll be more than fine.

Harmony - July 22 begins the Badge Run. There's no doubt you will be the talk of the town. You have until then to get really strong. My final surprise, I've given you all have my endorsement. I've let the League, and Harry know to look at you three. It's the first time I've ever given an endorsement, so don't prove me wrong.

Archie - Seems like a solid start to your endorsement. Mom, thank you for teaching us so much lately. Knowing how to care for our Pokémon on the road is going to be a huge plus. Thank you so much, and I love you.

Mom - Thank you, Arch! Now. I love you all. Sadly though, you all really need to get going, I don't want anybody seeing you all leave town with Harmony.

CHAPTER 2: Training Begins

Harmony - A little further ahead, and we'll be at my go to camp site!

Archie - Is everything going to be, okay?

Naomi - Yeah. You guys' reactions were scaring me back there.

Harmony - Oh, everything will be fine! Aunt Chloe is going to be really busy for a while. I'm sure reporters and poachers are going to swarm the village, looking for that Absol, so it's just best for now if you guys get away for a bit. Honestly, Naomi and Noah, you have nothing to worry about. Naomi, I'm sure you're going to get a little attention off of your Mawile, a shiny Mawile is something I've never seen in person before. But I doubt you have to worry about poachers or anything.

Noah - Maybe Dad will come back around...

Harmony - Oh... Sure, he's a poacher, but he hasn't come around for a few years now. I can't imagine he would show up around you guys.

Naomi - A poacher? He's THE poacher... I have been worried about it a lot... What if people judge us based off of the Barlowe name? I was shocked when Ms. Chloe even let us help at the farm because of it all.

Archie - HEY! You guys are not like your father. It's not your fault what he's done. It wouldn't be fair at all for mom to hold that against you. I wouldn't let her, and I dang sure won't let anybody treat you different because of it.

Harmony - *Smiling at me* It's good to know when your friends have your back. Sure, in Xelandria your name means a lot. But that means you come in notorious! No doubt Archie is going to get looks because of his last name. Even if you guys get looks, screw them. But let's try not to worry about all of that. Enjoy yourselves. You are beginning your journey officially. Let's go out here and pretend that everything is normal. Archie, Naomi, have your Pokemon help Rillaboom and Meloetta gather firewood and any berries. Noah, if you could have Turtonator and Armorouge tend to the fire for the night.

Like conducting the own Pokémon in her gym, our Pokémon obey. Excadrill, Mawile, Absol, and Ninetails all go about grabbing sticks, Excadrill trying to show off grabs a few logs. Before too long we have ourselves quite the pile of sticks and logs built up, and Armorouge and Turtonator light it up. The heat kissing at the sides of our faces, as we collectively take a few steps backwards. I send Excadrill out to gather a few more logs, Noah and I helping, to lighten the load. We drop two more, about 10 feet from the fire. Giving all of us a nice place to sit for the night. To the side, Turtonator shoots a ball of fire on the ground, warming a place up, and falling asleep almost as soon as his body hits the ground. Absol and Ninetails are not far from him, laid on the ground, curled around each other as if they've been friends for years.

Harmony - Awwww. Your Pokémon like each other too! Fitting for you two love birds.

Naomi - *blushing* Archie would be so lucky.

Archie - You'd be the lucky one. I'm going to be a gym leader after this Badge Run, and a Champion one day!

Noah - You two make me sick.

Harmony - Hahaha! Don't get shy now you two. It's all in fun and games. But speaking of games! You three are all starting tomorrow. Mom said she was sending you all Ultra Balls, which is a hell of a thing to start your journey with. But those won't be in until tomorrow, and we had to leave. So. I'll loan each of you 10 Great Balls. They should be good to catch anything in this area. But on the off chance there is something stronger, I'll give each of you 4 Ultra Balls. I don't have much more than that sadly. I haven't went shopping in a few months, but we'll make do!

Noah - Thank you, Harmony! But I do still want to battle Archie tomorrow too.

Archie - Oh yeah?! You saw how ready Absol was to fight coming out, and you still want to fight?

Noah - The value of that special Pokémon is going to go down drastically when it starts it's career 0-1. *Winks in my direction*

Harmony - Now, now. We will do one! Do you want to do a 2v2 or a 1v1? I'll officiate! Naomi, you can fight them as well if you like!

Naomi - No, I'm okay! I'll save my battling for the wild Pokémon tomorrow. But I would like to see them in battle.

Archie - I'm going to sleep now then. I want to battle you after breakfast and show you how it's done.

Noah - I'll even beat you to sleep. We'll do a 2v2. Turtonator and Absol. Armarouge and Excadrill.

As we all laugh in the moonlight, we begin drifting away. The warmth of the fire kissing our faces, while the cold of the night wraps it's hands around our legs. In the middle of the night, Excadrill and Absol move in closer to me, giving me warmth, and I to them. Sleep is hard to come by, I find myself too excited. Strategizing over my battle in the morning. I haven't seen any of Turtonator's moves. I know Absol has aerial ace, but don't really know what else there is. I'm not really at an advantage for this battle. But I know, I have to start off strong. Absol seems ready to fight, and quick. I think we can use our speed to make Turtonator lose the battle. But I need to be ready for any move or strategy. As for Excadrill and Armarouge, we've battled a few times now, and Excadrill has won everyone. Noah alwasy tries to outplay the type disadvantage, but always seems to play into one of my attacks. If I know Noah, his mind is racing as much as mine. Battling the Pokemon at the farm was always something neither of us had to worry about. But here, in our first official battle, neither of us wants to lose.

The sun begins to dance along the skyline, quicker than I thought it would happen. I feel my eyes lifting up, wiping the sleep from my eyes, I roll around to find I'm the only one still asleep.

Noah - About time you wake up! You better wake up, it's time. We are just about done with breakfast, and then you and I are going to battle.

Archie - Oooooh I'm so excited. *Turning over to Excadrill and Absol who are also just waking up* Are you guys ready?! This is our first official battle. I promise to do everything I can for us to win.

"Excadrill!" Excadrill shouts out in excitement, clanging it's metal claws together in what sounds like the melody to a forgotten war chant.

"Ab-sol!" Absol shouts out, sending an aerial ace flying in Turtonator's direction, almost anticipating it's upcoming dance partner.

Harmony - Ya ready boys?! Your first official battle is about to begin. Get to your spots. This will be a fair Pokemon battle. Since you have newly hatched Pokemon, I forbid Excadrill or Armarouge being used in a battle against one of them.

Noah walks to the edge of the forest, a huge field of flowers acting as our battle grounds for today. I walk over to where the fire was last night. We have about 30 feet in between us. I glare his direction, the side of my mouth creeping upwards into a huge smile. As I meet his eyes, I see we share the same smile. The two of us, friends for so long, rivals for so long, get to start our journeys together, right here, right now.

Battle Begin: Archie vs Noah

Noah - Armarouge! Let's go buddy, you're up first.

Archie - *Looking over at Excadrill, who's still clanging his claws together in excitement* It's our turn too then, bud! Absol, get ready, you're going to be up next. I'm ready to see what you can do.

"Armarouge, waste no time, let's use Aura Sphere!" Noah shouts quick. "You can dodge that, Excadrill, use Drill Run and bury yourself in the ground." Armarouge puts it's arms together creating a cannon, that begins to glow a bright white color, sending a fast attack at Excadrill, who just barely has time enough to burrow it's way down, the dirt catching the blow of the attack. A huge cloud of mud and dirt and grass explode out of the ground. Excadrill uses Drill Run, charging straight towards Armarouge. He's easy to track, with the top of the ground breaking and falling apart as he closes in, but it's too quick for Armarouge to react, striking Armarouge in the lower part of it's body.

"That's what I'm talking about, Excadrill! Don't let up. Drill Run again, and lunge out at the last second, and Drill Run again." I shout out from my spot by the burn pile from the night before. Excadrill closes in, almost quicker this time, as if it's adrenaline is pumping through it's veins more so now that it landed an attack.

"When he comes out of the ground, use Aura Sphere again, Armarouge!" Noah exclaims in parts desperation, and parts thrill. Armarouge readies it's arm cannon again, glowing that familiar white. The moment Excadrill comes out of the ground, Armarouge reacts and sends an Aura Sphere hitting Excadrill directly in the mid-section. Direct Hit.

"Excadrill! Get up buddy! We aren't done yet!" I scream to my downed friend. "Armarouge, let's let another one go, at the ground in front of Excadrill!" Excadrill gets up, and without warning, burrows back into the ground, just dodging the attack. Another cloud of debris shoots up where Armarouge landed it's third attack. "Again, Armarouge!" It's cannon begins to again glow, Excadrill closing the gap, "Go deeper into the ground Excadrill! Then use Iron Head to charge up, and strike from directly below." Armarouge, unable to jump out of the way, is standing, cannon charged and ready to fire. Then with a loud rumble from below, and a louder pop of the ground below Armarouge breaking up, Excadrill propels out of the ground, it's Iron Head landing directly into the center mass of Armarouge. Both Pokémon are standing about 2 feet from one another, when after a few seconds, Armarouge falls, knees hitting the ground.

Archie and Excadrill win

Harmony - Armarouge is unable to battle, Excadrill wins!

Noah - That was a fun battle! I didn't expect you to use anything other than Drill Run.

Naomi - Yeah, me neither honestly. That's been your go to for a while now.

Archie - I didn't want too honestly. But you've clearly gotten better and used to what I do, so I had to do something to change up a little or I would have for sure lost that. That Aura Sphere is no joke!

Noah runs over, picking Armarouge up, and giving him some food, congratulating him on a well fought battle. Excadrill and I run, embracing one another in a hug halfway down the battlefield. Both exploding with joy for winning our first battle as an official duo.

Harmony - Okay, you guys still want to battle?

Noah - Of course we do! My blood is pumping now. I get a Dragon Type here too. Good luck with your special Pokémon.

Archie - I don't need luck! You ready buddy!? *I look over to Absol, who hasn't let its eyes off of Turtonator since the previous battle ended.

Harmony - Alright, then let's finish this thing! Trainers to your spots.

"Absol, we're learning your moves together buddy! We know of Aerial Ace, but nothing else. If you feel anything else coming up, just let it happen. We'll sort and arrange later on." I say, trying to put my new Pokémon at ease.

"You too, Turtonator. Don't worry about this battle, if anything it's just to see what you can do so far!" Noah exclaims calming his Pokémon's nerves as well.

Absol strikes first. Running into the battlefield. She's fast. Letting an Aerial Ace fly, and another, and another. "Turtonator, dodge it!" But it's no use. one, two, three, Aerial Ace attacks hit him directly in on the under belly, it's weakest point on its body. "Go ahead and use your fire attack!" Noah shouts in return. Turtonator rears its snout back, and releases a huge fire attack, much bigger than any attack it should know at level 1 or 2. "Absol, dodge it, and attack again!" I say in desperation. Absol luckily dodges, and throws another Aerial Ace, hitting Turtonator again in the belly.

Archie - Was that Incinerate?! That's a strong move for now!

Noah - I think so! *Rubbing the back of his neck* I didn't know what the attack was... I wasn't expecting something like that either. But we'll go again! Absol is FAST too. The two of you will get along just fine.

"Turtonator, rush in, once you're close enough, use Incinerate again!" "Absol, you're faster, don't let Turtonator close in, keep attacking to keep him at a distance." Turtonator tries charging in, but every time it gains a step, Absol sends another Aerial Ace at it, or the ground in front of it. Then the Absol trips on one of the holes created by the battle before, falling to the ground. Turtonator's head begins glowing, and he moves in quicky closing the gap.

Archie - Is that Head Smash?! He's loaded with good moves. Absol, move quick, attack, get out, anything!

Absol gets up, unable to get away in time, fires 3 rapid Aerial Ace's straight to Turtonator who cuts through each with his head like it's a hot stick of butter. Then Absol's white horn begins glowing a dark, deep black, and sends in a much louder, much more powerful "WHOOOOOOOOSH" this new attack, sending a black stream directly at Turtonator as he's only about 2 feet away. Striking him directly, causing a loud pop and a cloud of dust to kick up.

Noah - What was that?!

Archie - Night Slash?! She shouldn't know that yet either, you guys gave us the best eggs possible, Har.

As the smoke settles, it's clear. The black Absol, stands over Turtonator, his eyes closed, and his back on the ground.

Archie and Absol win.

Harmony - Turtonator, is unable to battle, Absol wins. Archie is the winner!

Archie - *Running over to Noah, giving him a hug, and picking his head up* Hey cheer up, man! That was a phenomenal battle. Turtonator is going to be a defensive force to be reconned with. I'm lucky Absol was able to dig deep there and find a move it shouldn't have to win.

Noah - *smiling through the pain of losing* No I'm fine. That was a great battle. There was a period in both battles I really thought that I was going to win. You were just able to pull through is all!

Archie - I got really scared when Turtonator was charging in. I was starting to think of how I could have done things differently at the beginning of the battle. It felt like I set Absol up to fail, but she was able to pull through on her own. *I rub Absol's head in approval, her leaning into my hand as if to congratulate me on the battle as well*

Naomi - That was amazing you guys! I felt like I was watching a real battle. That was far more intense than what you two generally get into at the farm. I really enjoyed myself.

Harmony - Yeah, and your boyfriend won too! *Smiling at us* But seriously, that was a fun battle! I'm so ready to see what the two of you can do come the Badge Run. I think you all have some incredible Pokemon. Noah, that Turtonator tanked like 7 direct hits?! That's nothing to scoff at. That'll only get better! And Archie, Absol is FAST and hit incredibly hard there at the end for a Pokemon of that level. I would be willing to bet you both gained a lot of XP for that battle. Keep training, and I think you guys could both easily pass the Badge Run. Naomi, I want to see you in the next battle! You're a good breeder and at raising Pokémon, but if you want to succeed in the Badge Run, then you need to be more willing to battle.

Naomi - Yeah, I'm a little afraid to battle those two... They're always battling with one another; I feel like I'm pretty far behind as it is. I'm scared if I lost then I'd lose all of my confidence.

Harmony - Don't be scared of that! I used to lose all of the time. I failed my first Badge Run as a matter of fact. You'd think training with my mom like I did for years, I would be a natrual, but that wasn't the case at all. But I learned from all of my mistakes, and now I'm in the running for the Elite 4 after this Badge Run.

Archie - Yeah, Naomi, don't be nervous! When we catch new Pokémon today, we can train together! My goal is for all of us to become Leaders after this Badge Run if possible! I can give you all of the secrets to beating Noah too!

Noah - Oh, stop it. You got lucky today. We're all going to train and beat you. Last Badge Run, Harmony, you lost what, 2 battles?

Harmony - Yeah.. I didn't use Meloetta in either of those either. Meloetta and I haven't lost together yet, so I'm going to utilize her a lot, especially when one of you three comes to town.

Archie - I've watched most of your battles. I think I can beat you!

Harmony - Oh yeah?! Don't try my gym first. Please. I'm ranked 12/12 for the toughest gym. And since I'm trying to get into the Elite 4, I definitely won't go easy on you. Especially you, Arch. You only get 4 losses. There is a tournament to re-enter the Run, but only the top 4 get it. I don't believe anybody's ever re-entered and won though. They tend to make the same mistakes.

Naomi - Archie, I swear.. You're so eager to battle. But guys, I'm ready to go out and catch Pokémon.

Noah - *Looking at Archie* Wanna make a competition out of it? Whoever catches the most Pokémon, wins.

Archie - The most?! You catch 6 Pidgeys, that's not a win. Let's do all three of us. Whoever catches the strongest Pokémon, determined by Harmony, wins.

Naomi - Deal! I'm going to show you guys that I'm serious about all of this. Good luck. I'm following the flowers; I just feel like that's where I'll find something strong.

Noah - Bet, I'll go and check out the forest. One strong grass type, and your team is toast, Archie.

Archie - Then I'm going up the mountain a bi-

Harmony - *interrupting me* If you go to the mountain, don't be stupid. And you MUST come back before dark. I'll send Rillaboom with you if I need to.

Archie - I'll be safe, I promise. I trust Excadrill up there. And Absol can get some training as well! Bye, Har.

Harmony - Be safe guys! I'll have my Pokémon train against one another until you guys get back. Again, all of you be safe. And I'll give the winner of this, a prize!

With that, Naomi takes her two Pokémon, and runs through the field of flowers, battling smaller Pokémon on her way out of eyesight. Noah runs into the opening in the forest, his eyes straight ahead, not even worrying about the Pokémon on the way. I also run to the base of the mountain. Making my way up through the gate at the base of the mountain, looking around is pretty much all rock and dirt. There is a grassy field ahead of me, and I hear a creek bubbling as the water runs through it. Running up the mountain, I have Excadrill and Absol on either side of me. I'm going to use this moment to work on Excadrill's weaknesses. If there's any water or grass types that are super effective against him, I'll battle him.

Harmony taught me a while ago that she likes to take her Rillaboom to the snow caps of the Black Stone mountains where the strong ice type Pokemon are and train him against one of his weaknesses. I imagine it'll take a few tries, but I think if I get Excadrill a bit more resistant to one if not both of those types, then I'll be far more suited for the Badge Run. I make my way to the grassy field, and it's as if the mountain opens. There's a huge field with 3 separate streams cutting

through the terrain. A large mountain with a pathway to the left side, and a ledge to the right, that I can look over. Looking over the ledge, I'm unable to see any of my friends, but I do see an old hut with a water wheel turning. There are a few Pokemon running around, but it's about a 15 foot drop or so, so I'll come back if I need to. Looking towards the streams, they're filled with wild Pokemon. Marill, Psyduck, Lotad, and Poliwag seem to be the most abundant water types here. Throughout the field, there are Tangela, Paras, Smoliv, and a few Tropius throughout the grass.

Archie - You ready guys?! We're about to get some good training in here.

I look over at Excadrill, and point him in the direction of a group of Paras in front of us. It's not much of a battle, and 20 seconds later, Excadrill is the only one left standing. Only having 8 balls to throw, I don't want to waste any on a Paras, but I do know I'd like to catch a water type, and grass type before moving along. Ahead of us now, there's a lone Tangrowth, it's big, but I don't think I want it either. I look over at Absol, and she's just as ready for battle. She sends two rapid fire Aerial Ace's in its direction, and it hits the ground. I think to myself that Turtonator must really be a tank. Sure, it's super effective here, but they hit hard. We swap in and out and make our way through most of the Pokémon in the surrounding area. And I spot on the far end of the bank of the creek near me, a Lombre. I want a water and a grass, why not consolidate that into one? The closer we get, I notice 4 Lotad around him. He must be the leader of this area for them. Perfect, that means he is strong.

I send out Absol and Excadrill, and after a few moments, it's just my two Pokémon and Lombre. I yell at Absol to use Aerial Ace, and for Excadrill to use X-Scissor. Both rush in, causing the Lombre to jump in the air, seeming to know which is stronger, it shoots an Ice Beam directly at Excadrill. Excadrill takes the hit, he winces but continues rushing in as if not phased. Absol whips around, and launches a night slash, just as powerful as the one in the battle against Noah, and hits Lombre in the chest. Lombre falls back, averts its attention to Absol, and throws a Seed Bomb directly at Absol, who uses a well-timed Aerial Ace to knock it out of the air. Excadrill uses Drill Run to move in closer without Lombre able to stop it from moving in. Lombre jumps even higher than before and releases a fury of Ice Beams and Seed Bombs at the ground where Excadrill is, with a few hitting. Excadrill pays no mind to the effect the moves gave, and leaps out of the ground with a hyper focused Iron Head, striking Lombre in the mid section, and causing it to fall to a knee. He took on Absol and Excadrill in a 2v1 and still managed to hold his own pretty well. This is a good capture.

I throw a Great Ball at Lombre. It rocks once. It rocks twice. It rocks a third time. Click.

*Lombre was caught*

Archie - Let's go guys! We caught our first Pokémon!

I let Lombre out of its ball, give him a potion, and welcome him to the group.

Archie - You fought so hard, Lombre! I'm grateful you'll be going with us from now on. I'll have them out of their balls for now and would love for you to walk around with us!

"Lombre!" He shouts in excitement.

And with that, we all make our way to the path leading up the mountain. So, I now have a grass/water, ground/steel, and a dark type I think to myself. I want to have a well-balanced team, ready for anything at any given moment. Here in Xelandria we can have 8 Pokémon on us at any given time but can only battle a gym and other trainers with 6 of them. But you can train all 8 at once if you'd like to. I'd love to end today with catching 3 more Pokémon. If I can have a full team of 6 after my first day, I think I'll gain a lot of respect from Harmony.

So, I make my way up the mountain a little bit. There are multiple Drillbur, Growlithe, Mudbray, and Geodude. I don't really want any on my team, so we work as a tandem, battling our way through the wild Pokémon. Mom and I used to come up here to catch new Pokémon for the farm. So, I know a few of them that I'd love to catch. Talonflame, Pyroar, and Camerupt would all be great options here. But I haven't seen any today, they may be out of the mountains because of how cold it has been lately though. As we finish battling a group of Mudbray, I hear a loud "CRAAAAAASH" up the pathway a little bit. Excadrill is the first, sensing a battle, he drills into the ground and begins climbing ahead of me. Absol, Lombre and I begin to run just to play catch up. When we get up, we see Excadrill already in a full fight with a Flygon.

Archie - A Flygon?! I've never seen one of them here!

"That's because he's mine." A raspy voice calls out from behind a rock.

Archie - *Looking at Absol* Who's there?

"The name is Duncan. I'm just here getting ready for the Badge Run!" Duncan says confidently walking from behind the rock.

Archie - Well, how convenient, I'm doing the same thing!

Duncan - *staring at Absol* Seems that way. Quite a unique mon you have there.

Archie - Thanks. *Stepping in front of Absol*

Duncan - Don't worry, I'm not a poacher. I'm here training and catching new Pokemon.

Archie - I'm doing the same. I've already caught this guy today. *Gesturing to Lombre*

Duncan - Well, since you and I are both going to enter the Badge Run, let's battle! 1v1.

Archie - Might as well! I'll get to show you what you have to look forward to!

Duncan - You said you caught Lombre today? I caught this Copperajah today.

Duncan sends out his Copperajah, it's the first time I'm seeing one in person. I look over at Lombre "You ready buddy?!" Lombre excitedly jumps in, ready to battle.

Duncan - We'll go until one of them faints. No other Pokémon.

Archie - Sounds good to me!

Battle Begin: Duncan vs Archie

Duncan - Copperajah, use Agility.

Archie - Lombre, seed bomb!

Copperajah begins vibrating, faster and faster. Lombre, lunges forward, throwing it's Seed Bomb directly at Copperajah, who's able to dodge it. "Now Copperajah, Play Rough" I panic, not knowing any other move Lombre has right now other than Seed Bomb and Ice Beam. I should've checked before now but wasn't ready for a battle. I know Ice Beam won't do anything, so I go back and ask him to use Seed Bomb. Copperajah rushes in, and Lombre releases Seed Bomb, hitting him and stopping him in his tracks.

Duncan - Wow, that's a big attack! Copperajah, let's try it again.

Archie - Thanks! Lombre, use another attack you have!

Duncan - You haven't checked his moves yet?!

Archie - I JUST caught him. I wasn't expecting a battle.

Duncan laughs it off, Copperajah rushing in for another Play Rough. Lombre, dodges out of the way, and releases a Scald. It's like a water gun, but I can feel the heat off of the attack from where I stand. Scald hits Copperajah directly in the side. Copperajah, not skipping a beat, turns and rushes towards Lombre again. Lombre this time, unable to get out of the way in time, takes the hit head on. "Let's go, Lombre! Rush in with Scald, and use Seed Bomb when you get in close!" "Don't let him get close, Copperajah, Heavy Strike!" Lombre begins working his way towards Copperajah, unleashing a long Scald attack, before Copperajah leaps into the air. "SEED BOMB NOW!" Lombre throws Seed Bomb directly into the sky, watching as Copperajah is falling towards him like a meteor. The ground shakes, a huge cloud of smoke comes from where the Pokemon collided. As the debris escapes the battlefield, Duncan and I both see Copperajah is standing, and Lombre is on the ground.

Duncan and Copperajah win.

Duncan - Dude, you just caught him?

Archie - I sure did! He seemed to be the strongest, in that grass field at the bottom of this foot path here!

Duncan - He seems really strong! Well, I'm glad to meet a fellow trainer for this Badge Run! Officially, my name is Duncan. Duncan Odom.

Archie - Hey, Duncan! I'm Archie Ames.

Duncan - Ames? As in Harmony Ames?

Archie - Haha, yes sir! She's, my cousin. I'm actually here with her. She's at the bottom of the mountain. We have 3 of us that are beginning our Badge Run this year, and came out here to train, and hide sort of.

Duncan - Hide that Absol? Yeah dude, that's unique. Now that we're on a first name, battle basis. Can I ask about it?

Archie - Sure! *Holding my hand out so Absol comes closer to me* She hatched yesterday actually. Harmony was there, and acted as representative from the Pokémon League, so she had to document it. My mom runs the Breeding Farm in Preya Village, a few hours walk from here, and they're all worried about the foot traffic in town, and potential poachers.

Duncan - As they should be! I have a group too, my older brother is a gym leader too, him and some childhood friends are training us. His name is Gabe. He runs the Hunting gym!

Archie - Oh, so he's strong too! I've heard Harmony mentioning him.

Duncan - Small world. But don't let them see your Absol. One of them, her dad is a big-time poacher.

Archie - Thanks, man! The people I'm with have a similar situation, but I trust them. I'm actually about to have lunch, I have some extras for you and your Pokémon if you're hungry.

Duncan - Sure! I haven't eaten all day, and then I'll go and check out that field you were talking about.

Duncan sends out all 5 of his Pokémon. He has a Flygon, Copperajah, Haunter, and 2 Eevees.

Archie - You have 2 Eevees?

Duncan - Hahah, yeah, I do! They both hatched out of the same egg. They also hatched yesterday, so I think we both got something crazy! They do seem to want to always fight each other though.

Archie - Well that's neat! I've raised and hatched Pokémon with my mom for years and can only think of one time that happened at our farm. I want to say they were the same way. My mom was telling us how we couldn't sell them together, because it would be bad.

Duncan - Oh really? Hunter was saying something similarly, but I didn't know which one to get rid of yet.

Archie - What are you wanting them to turn into?

Duncan - Since there's two, I always wanted a Leafeon, so Glaceon for the other one. But, I'll more than likely have to sell the Glaceon one day.

Archie - Yeah, I understand. It stinks that you can have something so rare, but don't get to see it through. But you have me beat Pokémon wise regardless!

Duncan - Yeah, it's okay though! I caught Copperajah today and was given Flygon a few months ago as a Vibrava, Haunter from my brother. So, I've gotten some gifts.

Archie - I've had Excadrill for a few months as well, but "officially" caught him this morning when I turned 16.

Duncan - I turned 16 two weeks ago! That's when I claimed Flygon too.

Flygon and Excadrill are currently in the middle of a contest of who can eat their food quicker. Absol and one of the Eevees has seemed to hit it off very well, sharing food and playing, and Lombre and Copperajah are eating together as if showing each other respect for the hard-fought battle earlier.

Duncan - Looks like Flygon and Excadrill are going to have to have a battle before too long.

Archie - Flygon and Excadrill both view themselves as Alphas, I bet they'll still be like that even after the fight!

As we're talking, a Hawlucha jumps out of a tree not too far away and walks up to us. Excadrill and Flygon both sit up, Excadrill clanging it's metal claws together, and Flygon flapping it's wings in a territorial way. Hawlucha ignores both of them and walks up to Absol and begins to examine it, as if it's seeing how different Absol is compared to others it may have seen.

Archie - Hey buddy! Do you want some food?

I fill a bowl of food, and drop it off in front of Hawlucha, who isn't shy at all. It grabs the bowl, and runs over to Absol and Eevee, sits down, and begins to chow down.

Duncan - Hahaha! I think you might have just caught another Pokémon.

Archie - Do you think so?!

Duncan - Dude I think so. I've heard of Pokémon joining picnics and just staying with the trainer! I only have two balls left, so I'll let you have it if it wants to stay.

Archie - Okay! You think a Great Ball or Ultra Ball would be better?

Duncan - You have Ultra Balls?! Gabe told me that he didn't have spares to give me!

Archie - It was a gift from Harmony, she gave me 4 of them!

Duncan - Dude, you're so lucky.

Archie - You want one? I feel like if you're letting me take that Hawlucha, I owe you.

Duncan - I'd love one! But you sure don't have to, man

Archie - It's no big deal! Consider it a thank you, and a token of a new friendship. *Extending hand out with the Ultra Ball in hand*

Duncan - *grabbing it, and shaking my hand* To new friends. You know, my brother always talks about how your cousin is the strongest gym leader by far.

Archie - Oh really? I've watched a bunch of highlights from the last Badge Run, and your brother is crazy strong too. Having a Gengar that can G-Max and Mega Evolve is a hard thing to prepare for.

Duncan - He's whooped up on me more than a few times to "train me"

Archie - Yeah.. I've never beaten even a single one of Harmony's Pokémon.

Duncan - Looks like Hawlucha's about done eating, go and shoot your shot!

I get up, dust off my shorts and go to the Hawlucha. He seems curious about me, but not scared at all. It bows it's head as to say thank you and does a little dance to show it's appreciation of the food given to it.

Archie - Hawlucha, would you like to join us as well? We can all get strong together, and there'll be plenty of food! *Holding out a Great Ball*

"Lucha!" Hawlucha exlaims in excitement, pressing the button in the middle of the Great Ball.

Hawlucha was Caught.

Duncan - See, man? You just caught a Pokemon just because you had lunch!

Archie - I guess so! Thanks, man. You didn't have to do that though.

Duncan - Not a problem man, it was a pleasure getting to meet you, Archie. I'm sure we'll see more of each other in a few months.

We both finish eating, our Pokémon say goodbye, Absol and Eevee sadly break apart from each other, and Flygon and Excadrill do their normal dance, and we go separate ways, I continue climbing the mountain, and Duncan descends the mountain. I decide to avoid the main pathway trying to avoid Duncan's group. I'm still not ready for the world to know about Absol before we can get strong enough to protect ourselves. I'm two Pokémon away from my goal for today. I think I could find something really strong up the mountain. I remember in the back of my mind Harmony's warning of the Pokémon up there, but I ignore it and trudge along.

The mountain begins to become more and more difficult to travel, so I withdraw everyone for safety. I climb up to find a nice open area. It's the first one I've seen in about 40 minutes of climbing. There are huge mountains on either side of me, with the one in the middle having a cave opening towards the top, and a huge pool of clear water in the middle of them. It's eerily quiet up here, the only sound is the wind whistling through the openings of the mountains. No wild Pokémon in the water, and nothing else around. I let Hawlucha out of it's ball, telling it to fly, and go and check out the cave opening. Hawlucha flies up, calls out from outside, and a loud screech followed by three huge spikes of rock come flying out. Hawlucha falls off the cave opening, into the water below. Hawlucha is knocked out. I recall him and send out Lombre. "Seed Bomb as far up the mountain as you can! It's angry, let's rattle the cage." Lombre, propels itself upward, and launches a Seed Bomb, hitting the cave entrance. A few seconds go by of nothing, and there's a loud, blood curdling screech from up above. Flying out of the cave opening is a dark figure. I can't quite tell what it is. It flies up, and spreads it's wings in a grand reveal. Aerodactyl. My mom used to tell stories of one being up here, but always that if I ever saw it to run. And I provoked it. I feel my heart raise into my throat. I don't think Lombre could win this battle.

Archie - Lombre, this one's strong. Do your best, buddy. Use the water as a shield, and then we'll use a healthy mix of Ice Beam and Scald.

Lombre, jumping into action, leaps in the pool of water, diving down when Aerodactyl sends another stone edge hurling down from the skies above. Lombre swims around quickly, dodging, and using the large rock formations to propel itself out of the water. Ice Beam barely missing and falling back down and letting out a scald which also misses. Aerodactyl is fast. I want to catch this Pokémon so bad. Forget any competition we're doing as friends. My mother warned me of it, and all I want to do is make it mine.

Aerodactyl dives down from the sky, unleashing a powerful Aqua Tail onto the water below. Gallons of water splash upwards like a geyser, forcing Lombre to flail out of the water. "Use Ice Beam!" Lombre gathers itself performing an acrobatic move in the air and unleashes an Ice Beam just four feet away from Aerodactyl, hitting it directly. "Now use Scald!" Both falling down, Lombre unleashes a Scald hitting it in the same spot. But before both Pokémon hit the water below, Aerodactyl unleashes a massive Hyper Beam. Completely overtaking Lombre, they both crash into the water below. Both Pokemon are floating on top of the water. Lombre's eyes are closed. He fought so hard today, come back for a rest buddy.

I decide to throw an Ultra Ball at Aerodactyl.

It rocks once. It rocks twice. Just as I think I had caught it, and this fight was over, Aerodactyl breaks free. Unleashing that terrible screech in anger.

He's taken out two of my Pokemon already. I can't throw out Absol she is nowhere near ready for this battle. So, I grab my last hope. Let's do this Excadrill. Aerodactyl is slow getting up. Having just taken two direct super effective hits like that, and using Hyper Beam, it only makes sense. But he shakes it off and rockets back on it's legs, and flies upwards gathering itself and perching on the land in front of the water.

Archie - Let's go, Excadrill! He's weak, all we need to do now is take this battle home!

Excadrill clangs it's claws together in that familiar war beat. Aerodactyl has now gathered its composure and is fully back in the fight. It charges at Excadrill, charging up another Aqua Tail. Excadrill has been through a lot of battling today, it couldn't take one of those head on. "Use Drill Run! Avoid his attacks as best as you can!" Excadrill dives into the ground, using Drill Run to avoid his attacks. I'm going through Excadrill's attacks, thinking what to do. Calling out for Drill Run after Drill Run until I can make my mind up on a strategy. Fearing for all of us if I can't figure something out now. "Use Drill Run up the mountain! Then jump out and use Iron Head!" Excadrill jumps into the ground again, and climbs up the mountain, getting to the point where Aerodactyl is, and using the momentum to catapult himself out to Aerodactyl, hitting him with a direct Iron Head. Aerodactyl screeches and slams to the ground, Excadrill uses another Drill Run to break the long fall.

I throw a Great Ball at Aerodactyl.

It rocks once. And it breaks free. Not as close as the first one.

Aerodactyl, unleashes a rapid fire of attacks, Stone Edge, followed by Aqua Tail, followed by Ice Fang. Excadrill is masterfully dodging attacks. Using the ground and the left behind fragments of the Stone Edge attacks to weave around attacks. Aerodactyl seems to be growing more and more frustrated, flapping it's wings and ascending. He's about to run away. "Excadrill follow him! Don't let him escape!" Excadrill uses Drill Run again, up the mountain. Climbing just as fast as Aerodactyl can fly, if not a little more so. Excadrill leaps out of the top of the mountain, about 10 feet above Aerodactyl. "USE IRON HEAD!" Excadrill clangs it's claws together as it free falls towards the ancient Pokemon. His head begins to glow, and the closer it gets, Aerodactyl seems to have something in store. A last ditch effort. Aerodactyl's mouth is glowing yellow. He's charging one last Hyper Beam. There's no dodging it for Excadrill. I can do nothing for my first Pokemon now. Excadrill falls, Iron Head landing directly in Aerodactyl's rib cage. Aerodactyl grabs Excadrill, and on it's way down, in pain, unleashes one of the most intimidating attacks I've ever witnessed in a Pokemon battle. Both Pokemon fall, crashing into the pool below. Excadrill is out. But it appears so is Aerodactyl. I recall Excadrill, and reach for the remaining two balls.

I throw the Ultra Ball at Aerodactyl.

It rocks once. It rocks twice. It rocks three times. Click.

Aerodactyl was Caught.

Archie - YES! WE DID IT! Thanks so much guys. *I kiss each Pokeball of Excadrill, Hawlucha, and Lombre.* Y'all did amazing. I owe you so much.

I know that I have to get back to camp fast. That battle lasted a long time, I have 4 Pokemon in my party who shouldn't battle, and one that is too young to battle anything up here. So, I scurry the down the mountain, darkness is creeping over the sky. Everybody knows where I am, but nobody knows how far up the mountain I went. I run down, dodging craters and fallen trees. I get down to the same grassy area as before, and I run into Naomi.

Archie - Hey there, Nay!

Naomi - Hey Arch..

Archie - What's wrong?

Naomi - I only caught 2 Pokemon today.

Archie - That's a good day!

Naomi - No. Noah is back, he caught 5.

Archie - Well that's okay, this is just day one for us. You'll have plenty of time! What did you catch?

Naomi - I caught a Braixen and a Lopunny.

Archie - That's awesome! A traditional starter and Lopunny is strong and can Mega Evolve!

Naomi - *smiling now* Yeah, I suppose so.

Archie - Well, what do you say, you and I go and catch a Pokémon together? We can both catch one more before we go back!

Naomi - How many did you catch?

Archie - Well.. 3.. But one of them was basically given to me!

Naomi - Given to you?!

Archie - Yeah! I met this trainer who is going to be in the Badge Run with us, his name was Duncan. The gym leader Gabe?! I ran into his little brother, apparently they're all out here in the mountains too! We ate lunch together and a Hawlucha walked up and just joined my team! And, I just caught an Aerodactyl!

Naomi - Aerodactyl?! That's insane! You're so lucky.

Archie - No, it was a hard-fought battle. Hawlucha, Excadrill, and Lombre all fainted.

Naomi - That's awesome! Oh, please help me... I need to catch more. Pleeease, Archie!

Archie - Come here.

We walk over to the ledge, overlooking the building with the water wheel. Directly behind that there is a river running at the base of the cliff side all the way around. There's a grassy field full of flowers and Pokemon running around, and a tree line connected to the forest we started by today.

Archie - Look, I think what we want will be down there.

Naomi - You think so?

Archie - I'm positive.

I glance at Naomi, noticing her eyes lingering on me for a few extra seconds. Feeling the butterflies in my stomach begin to stir around, I break the silence and point at the water.

Archie - Alright, Nay.. We have two options.

Naomi - Nope.

Archie - We jump into the water... Or spend 30 minutes walking around.

Naomi - Yeah, I'm definitely not doing option one.

Archie - What if I hold your hand while we do it?

Naomi - I still don't want to jump..

Archie - I'm jumping either way!

Naomi - Arch.. Please..

Archie - *Smiling* Come on! *grabs her hand*

Naomi tries to shake her head no and move away, but I grab her, and jump. It's only 20 feet fall but feels like we fall forever. This is the first time I've ever held her hand, and I can't help but hyper analyze how soft it is. Just as I start to blush, we're interrupted by the crash of the water.

Naomi - YOU STUPID MOTHER F-

Archie - HEY! We made it!

Naomi - I'm going to make it. You're lucky I don't drown you right here.

Archie - *Laughing* You're so cute when you're scared, you know that?

Naomi - *smiling now* You think this is cute? *Splashes me* Real cute!

She splashes me a few more times, and we work our way out of the water, swimming closer and closer to one another.

Naomi - Now we're all wet. Great idea, sir.

Archie - You're welcome! Alright, Nay! What do you say we catch you a Pokémon?! How many balls do you have left?

Naomi - I'm only down 2 Ultra Balls

Archie - That's perfect! We'll use as many as we can.

Over to the side, in the water, by the waterfall there's a Dewgong. I remember from the farm that Naomi loved mom's Dewgong. She always said that they were the right amount of derpy and cute.

Archie - *tilting her head to the waterfall* I think I found a Pokemon for you!

Naomi - YES! I want it.

Archie - So go get it!

Naomi sends out Mawile, using a flurry of Sucker Punch and then Thunder Fang, Dewgong relents.

Naomi throws a Great Ball.

It rocks once. It rocks twice. It rocks three times. Click.

Naomi caught Dewgong

Naomi - Archie! Thank you so much! *embracing me in a hug*

Archie - That was all you! I just pointed it out. That was some fast work. Mawile's tough too! I haven't gotten to see her in action yet. Mom spoiled you.

Naomi - She sure did. Does it make you sad your mom likes me more? And I love it! I want one more before we leave if that's okay?

Archie - Nah, I get it, Noah and I cause a lot of trouble, I'd like you more too, Let's go and find you something else! Anything in mind?

Naomi - *blushing still after pulling away from our hug* No.. we should look around though.

Naomi's hand grazes my hand, and we begin holding hands while looking around for her next Pokémon. There are a few Ribombee that she turns down, some Magikarp, and Marill that she doesn't want. Then in the middle of the field, we see two Ralts. One Ralts is giving the other Ralts a blue rose.

Naomi - Hey look! You used to do that for me all of the time at the farm.

Archie - *blushing now* What if we didn't have rival Pokemon?

Naomi - *smiling from ear to ear* But Pokemon that really liked one another?

The two of us go up, watching the Ralts, trying hard not to make too loud of a noise, afraid that the Pokemon would walk run away. Finally, the Ralts handing the other the flower catches our eyes. Rather than running, it sees us holding hands and grabs the hand of the Ralts in front of it.

Naomi - I think this is going to work!

Archie - Try talking with them. I don't think we should battle them to catch them.

Naomi - Hey guys! Sorry to interrupt. I'm Naomi, and this is Archie. We are like you guys in a way. *holding our hands up for them to see* We've been really good friends for a long time, and are about to start our Pokemon journey. We plan on travelling together, and battling together, and seeing the world. We're hoping that you two would come with us.

Archie - Only if you'd like to! If you'd rather stay in this field together, I'd understand.

The Ralts that gave the flower looks at us, and shakes it's head as if saying no, and begins to run towards the tree line.

Naomi - That's fine. *Her face drops a little bit* I understand!

Archie - No hard feelings, you guys be careful!

Naomi and I begin to walk back to the tree line, sadly following the two Ralts, to find our way back to camp, when we hear a loud "GRRRRRRAAAARRRR" a few trees snap and fall, a second loud roar comes from the tree line, then out jumps a huge Ursaring. The two Ralts coming and getting behind us for protection.

Naomi - Ummm, Archie, what do we do?!

Archie - Crap, most of my Pokémon aren't able to battle anymore either.. Let's go, Absol, Night Slash, quick.

Naomi - O-okay, I'll help too, your turn, Ninetails! Throw up an Aurora Veil!

Archie - I don't know if Absol is ready for this battle or not, so I'll need your help Nay! We're here to help you, don't worry.

Naomi - Right. I'm ready.

Ninetails comes out of her pokeball, and throws up an Aurora Veil to help the team out. Absol, lands right behind Ninetails, and sends a huge Night Slash in Ursaring's direction. The attack hits, causing Ursaring to stumble a little bit, but he stands tall. He starts banging on his stomach rapidly.

Naomi - What is that?

Archie - Belly Drum. Don't let him hit you.

Ursaring rushes in towards Absol, it's paw glowing white, preparing for a big attack. "Absol, move out of the way, and Night Slash again!" Absol uses it's speed, jumping behind Ursaring before sending another Night Slash into Ursaring's side. Absol sensing the danger they're in, jumps back behind Absol. Ninetails almost instictively uses a Psychock, to keep Ursaring at bay. Absol begins to set up a Swords Dance, a move that will significantly boost her physical attacks.

Archie - Good job, Absol! You learned a new move!

Naomi - Let's keep attacking, Ninetails! Move in and use Ice Beam.

Ninetails leaps forward, unleashing a large Ice Beam attack that seems to be powered by emotion. Ursaring takes the hit, and moves in on Ninetails, he's faster now for some reason. He jumps up, preparing to use Slash on Ninetails, but right before the attack lands, Absol jumps in and blocks the attack with another Night Slash. "Again, Absol!" Absol quickly lands, regains it's footing, and sends another Night Slash directly into Ursaring. With the powered up attacks, Ursaring stumbles back in pain. Ninetails jumps up again, as if in a dance with Absol. A beautiful back and forth of attacks. Night Slash from Absol, into a Psyshock from Ninetails, into a few rapid fired Aerial Aces from Absol, and finally Ninetails jumps back, all of it's tails out stretched as if drawing power from an unseen source, and uses Moonblast for the first time. The barrage of attacks causing Ursaring to stumble back, falling on the ground.

Archie - Great job, Nay! He's yours to catch!

Naomi - Don't mind if I do.

Naomi throws an Ultra Ball at the downed Ursaring.

The ball shakes really fast in the air, and then click.

Naomi caught Ursaring

Archie - You did it!

Naomi - Thanks to you for helping!

Archie - Not just me, you and Ninetails work great together. You don't give yourself enough credit. You learned just as much as raising Pokemon as Noah or I did.

Naomi - *blushing* Thanks, Arch. But uhhh... It's nighttime. We need to get back before Harmony comes looking for us.

Naomi and I begin to walk back to camp. It's not far away, and I'm sure Harmony and Noah would have heard us from camp during that battle. We cut throught the forest, stepping over trees broken by Ursaring during it's rampage.

Naomi - What do you think was making it so angry?

Archie - I have no clue. It's a full moon tonight, maybe it just doesn't like those? Maybe another Pokemon hurt it? There's really no telling.

Naomi - Well, I'm glad it's over now. And I now have as many Pokémon as Noah. So, I'm thrilled!

Archie - And I'm sure that Ursaring will be in the running for strongest Pokémon caught today.

Behind us, the Ralts are trying to get our attention, and drop the blue rose at Naomi's feet.

Naomi - Thank you! *smiling at the Ralts*

They embrace her leg in a hug, then come over to mine.

Naomi - Do you want to come along with us now?

"Ral!"

"Ralt!"

Wasting no time we reach down with our Great Balls. And they slap the middle of them, joining our teams. The male Ralts joining my team, the female Ralts joining Naomi's team.

Naomi - ARCHIE! We did it!

Archie - I did NOT think this was a possibility! But uhh.. It's late. We have to go.

We are holding hands, walking back, when Naomi stops in the middle of the path. She wraps her arms around me from behind. I turn around, embrace her hug, and tilt her head up giving each of us our first taste of one another. Her kiss, something I've only dreamed about until now. What a start to my Pokémon journey.

Naomi - *showing off her big toothy smile* You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that.

Archie - *matching her smile* Since the day your family started helping us on the farm.

Harmony - DID I JUST SEE WHAT I THINK I SAW?!

Noah - You two are supposed to be catching Pokémon, not feelings out here.

Archie - We can do both, you fool.

Naomi - *blushing* Oh my gosh... I didn't think you'd come looking for us.

Harmony - We heard trees falling, and growls and a battle going down. Figured it had to be one of you! We were both getting worried we hadn't seen either of you yet.

Archie - No need to worry! Naomi here caught herself a really strong Ursaring!

Naomi - Yeah, with Archie and Absol's help.

Noah - An Ursaring?! That's a heck of a catch, Nay!

Naomi - Thanks, bub!

Harmony - Alright, well why don't we go back to camp, and see how you all did today!

We walk back to the camp, following the trail in the forest. Naomi and I walking close to each other, with Harmony and Noah throwing random jokes at us for being cute. We make it back to camp and find Harmony had set up her portable Pokecenter for us to heal our Pokemon. I place my Pokemon on it, and use 72% of the charge.

Harmony - JESUS ARCHIE. Your Pokemon were basically all knocked out.

Archie - Yeah... Sorry..

Harmony - *side eyeing me and shaking her head* Noah, looks like you caught the most. But are they the strongest?

Naomi - I want to go first!

Harmony - Sure, go ahead.

Naomi calls out her entire team, Ninetails, her shiny Mawile, Braixen, Lopunny, Dewgong, Ralts and Ursaring.

Harmony - Damn, Naomi! You exceeded my expectations. And this Ursaring looks like it's seen some tough battles. Plus, your very own starter?! You get bonus points for that!

Noah - Yeah sis, that's really impressive, I just hate that I'm going to have to outshine you!

Noah brings out his team; Armarouge, Turtonator, Seadra, Scyther, Flaaffy, Corvisquire, and a Breloom.

Harmony - Mom's going to LOVE seeing that Seadra. And a lot of strong Pokémon here! Big potential for mega evolution from both of your teams! Archie, your turn!

Archie - I didn't catch as many..

I send out my team; Excadrill, Absol, Lombre, Ralts, Hawlucha, and Aerodactyl.

Harmony - HOW HIGH DID YOU GO UP THE MOUNTAIN? I TOLD YOU NOT TO GO TOO FAR.

Archie - I got a little sidetracked!

Harmony - For an Aerodactyl? You were basically in Acoustica. Archie, I swear... If you would've gotten hurt!

Archie - It's okay, my team was able to hold their own.

Harmony - Yeah, it appears that way. *pointing at the Pokecenter* You HAVE to be more careful. What went down?

Archie - Well spoiler alert... I caught him. He fainted 3 of my Pokémon, but look, he's having fun with Excadrill now, I think they realized how good of fighters they both are!

Harmony - *rolling her eyes* I see that. And I'm glad it turned out well. All anger aside, Aerodactyl is an amazing pokemon. He's very fast and can hit very hard, I think that's a perfect addition to your team. Also, I love the whole Ralts and Ralts thing you two have going on.

Naomi - *blushing* Really?

Harmony - Of course! That's cute. If you can get them strong together that could be amazing to witness. NOW. As for which Pokemon is the strongest...

Noah - I think Aerodactyl may be the strongest.

Archie - Idk, Ursaring gave Ninetails and Absol a run for their money.

Harmony - You used Absol in that battle? She's basically brand new! DUDE.

Archie - It was just her left! I didn't use her against Aerodactyl, but couldn't let Naomi fight by herself.

Naomi - Yeah, Archie was amazing help. And had it not been for him I believe that I wouldn't have 3 of these Pokémon.

Noah - He helped you catch THREE?

Archie - Just boosted her confidence is all! She did all of the catching.

Harmony - Uhh.. Oh well. I'm glad you're all safe, but please be more careful next time *staring into my soul*

All of us - Yes ma'am.

Harmony - But I think it's safe to say, I'm going to give this overall catching victory to Naomi! Archie, I just don't feel it's fair to give you the win when you didn't listen to the instructions. Noah, your team is strong, and as they evolve more they'll be a force to be reckoned with, and 3 months from now you could easily have the strongest team. Naomi crushed it. Good job, girl! And for your prize, you get 10 more Ultra Balls!

Noah - Oh, no fair!

Harmony - Don't be jealous! She did great!

Naomi - Thank you so much, Harmony!

Harmony - Not a problem, you earned it, girl!

Naomi - Thanks, Harmony!

Harmony - So that leads us to the bad part of coming out here. I have to take Archie back with me tomorrow morning. Archie should be back to you guys a few weeks before you head out to Capital City.

Naomi - *looking sad* O..Oh.. That's a long time.

Noah - *Grabbing his sister's hand* It'll be okay, Nay. We'll practice and get strong so we can beat his arrogant butt when he gets back.

Archie - *teary eyed* Oh please. Like a few months can get you ready enough to beat me. *Hugging my two friends*

Harmony - *voice cracking* Guys.. I'm s-so pr-proud of you three. *clears throat* You all have amazing potential here. You got the smallest glimpse today of what your journey will be like. Tons of surprises around every corner. Strong trainers in random places. Stronger Pokemon jumping out when you least expect it. Xelandria offers so much for you.

Naomi - *wiping eyes* Yeah. I feel like I could get used to this every day. Throw in battling gym leaders and making names for ourselves, and it's unbeatable.

Harmony - And over the past few years it's becoming easier and easier for Runners to catch more publicity and fame. Elly from the previous Badge Run basically got famous over night. You'll be able to get there too. Take these few months, and get so strong. The competition will be extra tough this year, and you'll need every bit of training you can muster.

Archie - *taking a deep breath, looking around to my friends* We'll be ready.

Chapter 3: Acoustica City

*4 months later*

Harmony - Alright, Archie. Keep Absol running around, avoid Meloetta's attacks.

Meloetta is in her pirouette form, making her a fighting type. She charges in on Absol, trying to use another Drain Punch, but Absol dodges to the side, regains her footing, and dodges another. The attacks are coming in quickly. Not even going all out, Harmony is a lot to deal with. Meloetta lunges, Absol dodges, Meloetta jumps in, Absol jumps out. They're almost in sync at this point. We've done this training now for around 3 months, and have made so much progress since we first began. We all train with a different Pokemon of hers. Absol and Meloetta, Lombre and Toxtricity, Excadrill and Rillaboom, Aerodactyl and Lapras, Kirlia and Skeledirge, and Hawlucha and Ludicolo. We've all gotten much stronger over the past few months.

I can't help but wonder how Naomi and Noah have done. I haven't received a letter from them in a few weeks now. Naomi's Ralts has evolved as well, and Noah has evolved Seadra into a Kingdra. Aunt Clair was fast to send a Dragon Scale over so he could. My Absolite came in, but Absol and I have yet to get Mega Evolution to work, but we're hoping with all of this intense training with Harmony we can get there. I haven't caught any new Pokémon since being out here, but all of my Pokémon have gotten significantly stronger.

Harmony - Okay, Arch, we've been at it for hours, I say we eat and call it for today!

Archie - Sounds good to me, I'm freaking wore out.

Harmony - Good, that means you're getting better. But honestly though, your whole team is getting really good. You might be the most battle ready trainer in the Badge Run.

Archie - That's the hope! I really want to win this thing.

Harmony - Haha! We share blood, I knew you'd feel that way. But keep in mind, the Leaders are no joke. We've all been doing this for years for the most part. There are a few new Leaders, but sometimes those are scarier because they have something to lose.

Archie - And you are shooting for Elite 4, so there should be an opening right?!

Harmony - Only if I can get it. As a matter of fact, the Champion, Harry, will be here in a few days to evaluate me.

Archie - Like a battle?!

Harmony - Yes! A two versus two battle. It's really a formality, he's in Kodiak now doing Gabe's evaluation. He typically goes around to all of the Leaders before hand to make the point scale!

Archie - How does the point scale work again?

Harmony - It's to rank the Leaders on how strong we are. So take last year, Gabe finished as the 7th hardest out of 12, and I finished 12 out of 12. We get put into tiers with a certain amount of points if a challenger beats us. So the bottom four are worth one point, the next four are worth two points, the next two are worth three points, 11 out of 12 is worth four, and my gym was worth five.

Archie - That's a pretty neat scale! Will we know what gyms are worth what?

Harmony - Not before you get to the gym. But when you go to every gym, they'll have the point scale on it. There will be a plaque that says "Upon triumph, you will receive x amount of points"

Archie - Do people get unlucky and challenge you quick sometimes?

Harmony - Typically! I get a lot of challengers in the first few months. They're so Gung-Ho to get the most points as fast as possible. But the Run will last 18 months, so no need to rush at all.

Archie - Well, you're going to have at least one person beat you this year!

Harmony - Ha! You wish. I'm ready to battle you. I know it's going to happen, but please, get experience under your belt first.

Archie - Okay, got it! Thanks.

Harmony - Don't mention it! I believe Gabe is coming to the city whenever Harry does, and I told him to bring Duncan for you. Y'all can battle each other, and see how tough each other got. Maybe you and Absol will unlock your Mega Evolution!

Archie - *Patting Absol on the head* We'll get there! I'm hoping we can this week. I'm going back home on Sunday, and would love to show Noah and Naomi that we can!

Harmony - Awwww, you miss your little girlfriend so much don't you! *winking at me, and playfully shoving my shoulder*

Archie - *Taking a big bite of my food* Shut up.

Harmony laughs, we finish our lunch, and begin our walk back to Acoustica. The arrival into Acoustica will never get old to me. I've done it hundreds of times, and still get chills as we enter the city. Here in the Black Stone Mountains, there's said to be a meteor that crashed down hundreds of years ago, because in the middle of the moutain range, there's this perfect bowl. Nestled in the mountains, it opens up revealing about 3 miles of open crater, in that crater they built Acoustica. It's a vibrant city full of beautiful colors, and festivals. They have fully embraced the music gym, and there's Chatot, Noivern, Exploud, Toxtricity, and many other music based Pokemon singing and cooing and growling in perfect harmony.

Archie - I love this place.

Harmony - Me too! I'm glad I get to call it my home.

We both make our way into the middle of the city to the music gym. Unlike other towns where the gym is nestled in a far corner, here, it's in the middle of the city. Huge ampitheater walls surrounding it, more Pokemon are roosted on the walls, singing songs as you walk in. During gym battles, they all seem to switch to sing songs of intimidation. But for now they're inviting, and happy, almost as if welcoming Harmony back into her home. In the center of the gym is the battle field. It's mostly grass, with a big water feature to the right hand side. Built solely for her Lapras. Open sky just in case Harmony decides to Gigantamax either her Lapras, Toxtricity or Rillaboom. Here in Xelandria, you can use one gimmick per gym battle. Mega Evolution and Gigantamax are the only ones the region recognizes. Mega Evolution lasts the whole battle, and makes a Pokemon significantly stronger, while Gigantamaxing lasts for three turns, and makes a Pokemon way stronger.

Standing in the middle of the gym is a figure. He stands tall, and bold. The hood of his jacket up, and his back turned, but Harmony knows exactly who it is.

"Hey there, Harmony. I got into town a bit early, and wanted to know if you'd like to go ahead and be evaluated?" The tall hooded guy says from 20 yards away.

Harmony - I'm always ready for a battle, Harry.

Harry - Well, then shall we dance?

Harmony - Sure! This is my cousin, and endorsee Archie. Can he stay and watch?

Harry - *walking out and extending his hand to me* Harry Hordull, nice to meet you, Archie!

Archie - *taking his hand* Archie Ames, sir. It's a pleasure.

Harry - The pleasure's mine! I do have to ask though.. Would it be okay to ask to see your Absol?

Harmony - Harry.

Harry - Only if you're comfortable, Archie Ames.

Archie - Sure!

I reach into my pocket and call Absol forward, and with a bright flash she's out of her ball. Absol stretches, turns to me and smiles, urging me to pat her on the head.

Harry - She's beautiful! You're the talk of the town in Capital City! You're going to be pretty popular when you get there. I've made plans for the beginning of the Badge Run, upping security, and giving strict entry to the stadium for the opening ceremonies.

Harmony - Thank you for that, we've basically been keeping him in hiding for the past 4 months just because we've been worried.

Harry - No need to worry, I have heard that Poachers are heavy on the road to Capital City currently. Barlowe and his crew are said to be amongst them.

Harmony - *looking at me worried* We aren't so much worried about them we hope. The other two kids I endorsed are actually his kids..

Harry - *smiling big* Oh yeah? When I had their names come across my desk as endorsees, I wondered.

Archie - They're not like their father though. I trust them.

Harry - I trusted their dad once too. Now he has my Raikou.

Harmony - They've been away from him for years now. He has no influence on them.

Harry - Harmony, I'll always trust your judgement. Archie, just be careful and don't let your guard down. You have quite the beautiful Pokémon there and I'd hate to see it fall into the wrong hands.

Archie - Oh you don't have to worry about that. We're going to get way stronger and win the Badge Run this year.

Harry - Archie Ames, as tenacious as Harmony. With that personality you'll be more than fine. Glad to see you're just like your cousin here!

Archie - *smiling big* Thank you sir, I get that a lot!

Harry - Well, thank you for letting me see the Absol. Now, Harmony. Shall we?

Harmony - *playfully* We shall! I'll go and get changed into my battle gear, and I'm ready.

Harry - Archie, do you want to officiate the battle?

Archie - Would I ever!

I'm living a dream right now. I'm officiating an actual battle between Harmony and the Xelandria League Champion. Before too long, all of the Pokemon that are perched at the top, begin singing a war chant. It's a deep soul shaking sound, that would intimidate anybody. Even Harry, a man who seemed so fearless, seems to be a little rattled.

Harry - *whispering to me* I always hated battling here.

The chants get louder and deeper, Toxtricity strumming their stomach. Chatot humming and whistling. Kricketot singing louder and louder. All a mess of sounds that sound so intimidating and rehearsed, and at the top of the stairs, Harmony appears. She's no longer in her street clothes. Her hair no longer hanging down freely. Now she's in a suit very similar to her mothers. Her hair up in the same ponytail, but her sides and bangs are more wild. A similar blue suit, with a jean jacket on over the top, and high black boots. She looks like a punk rock version of her mom. She walks down the steps, every step the chants seem to get louder and louder. Then she steps onto the battlefield, into her spot and the gym goes silent.

Harry - As intimidating as ever!

Harmony - We have worked on it!

Harry walks over to his spot opposite of Harmony. A huge field in between them, and tension thick enough to cut in the air.

Archie - You will do a two versus two battle. Harry, you are the challenger, so you get the first attack. Begin.

Battle Begin: Harmony vs Harry

Harry - That was good! You've seen your fair share of League matches.

Harmony sends out Rillaboom, and Harry answers with his Blaziken.

Harry - Blaziken, rush in for a Blaze Kick!

Harmony - High Horsepower, Rilly!

Blaziken rushes in, his leg starts glowing in a ball of fire. Rillaboom doesn't seem to be worried at all about the attack, having full trust in Harmony after many years of battle, rushes at Blaziken. Blaziken whips it's leg around, Rillaboom catches it, and continues charging forward with Blaziken's leg in his hand. Throwing Blaziken on the ground causing a tremor that I feel from where I'm standing.

Harmony - Bang the drums, Rilly!

Harry - Blaze Kick, again!

Blaziken pushes in again, leg glowing like before, seeming a little more determined and battle ready now than the time before. As he's charging in Rillaboom begins banging his drums, causing the ground underneath Blaziken to begin shaking, the stands are shaking, the whole city may be shaking. Blaziken loses it's footing, struggling to regain it's balance, Rillaboom seizes the opportunity to use Grassy Glide, rushing in, and finishing with a devastating High Horsepower. Within seconds, Blaziken is unable to battle.

Archie - Blaziken is unable to battle!

Rillaboom stands strong in the center of the field, banging it's chest in victory. Harmony not even phased. No sign of excitement or joy on her face. Harry with no sign of despair or worry. These guys are the real deal. That battle was so fast with so much fire power, if I had blinked I would've missed so much.

Harry - Let's go, Roaring Moon! Use Outrage!

Harmony - Hold strong, Rilly! Let's counter with Grassy Surge.

The battlefield is surrounded in greenery all of a sudden. Rillaboom beats his drum, and every beat seems to fill the area with more greenery and life. Roaring Moon, swooping in from above, angrily flying at Rillaboom. Rillaboom dodges one, dodges the other, but the third hits him hard. Rillaboom goes flying back, smashing into the water. "Don't relent, Roaring Moon! Let's attack with Acrobatics!" "Rilly, you don't give up either, Superpower!" Rillaboom, leaps out of the water. His strength is unmatched from anything I've seen. And he's not even her strongest Pokemon. Roaring Moon moves in quickly, hitting Rillaboom once, twice, three times, four. On the fourth, Rillaboom grabs Roaring Moon's wings, rears back his fist, and swings it at Roaring Moon's center mass. Roaring Moon flies backwards into the wall of the stands, and Rillaboom falls to the ground in exhaustion. After a few seconds Roaring Moon rises, hurt, but not out.

Archie - Rillaboom is unable to battle!

Harmony - Good work today, Rilly *kissing his Pokeball as she calls him back. Now, Let's go Meloetta!

Harry - I figured that would be your next Pokémon. Roaring Moon, use Knock Off!

Harmony - Relic Song, Meloetta!

Meloetta comes out of her Ultra Ball in her Aria forme, it's her base form, green hair made of song notes drifting to the side, and immediately, she raises her arm and begins to sing. Her hair spinning around her head, wrapping itself around, and changing to an orange color. Taking the Pirouette form again, a look that's all too familiar with all of the training we've done with her lately. Meloetta when changing forms goes from a Normal and Psychic type in Aria, to a Normal and Fighting type in Pirouette. As she's mid transformation, Roaring Moon dives in, claws glowing a nasty black color, and swipes at Meloetta, hitting her, and knocking her back a little bit.

Harry - Dang, I tried to hit her before she changed forms.

Harmony - I didn't expect you to attack so fast! I haven't gotten to see Roaring Moon in action yet.

Harry - He's my newest addition, but you're the first to battle him! I figured I owed it to you.

Harmony - But no Tyranitar today?

Harry - Not yet. You have too many Pokemon strong against him.

Harmony - Well, that's going to be the same here. Meloetta, move in for a Drain Punch!

Harry - Outrage, once more!

Meloetta and Roaring Moon charge in at one another about 5 feet off of the battle field. "Now, Meloetta, Relic Song, and then use Moonblast!" Meloetta, sings, her hair changing back to normal, and unleashes a Moonblast right in front of Roaring Moon. Outrage hits Meloetta at about the same time, causing both Pokemon to fall from the sky. Through the cloud, we can hear a loud roar, and then the soothing sound of Meloetta's voice. Meloetta floats above Roaring Moon, as he lay on the battlefield motionless.

Archie - Roaring Moon is unable to battle! Meloetta Wins! *Unable to contain my excitement*

Harmony and Meloetta win.

Harry - You're stronger than ever, Harmony!

Harmony - I've had to train all offseason. And with Archie here, we train hours each day, it's been really good for us!

Harry - Well, if this is any indication, Archie's going to put a hurt on a lot of trainers. My daughter's in this Run too though, and she's trained hard too! Can't wait to see the two of you face off with one another!

Archie - Yes sir, I'll give her everything I have!

"Well now, that was one of the best battles I've seen in a good while!" A deep country voice calls from behind me.

Harry - Ahh, I hate you had to see me lose there, Gabe.

Gabe - No sir, no need to apologize, I know how tough she can be. She beat the brakes off of me a few months ago in a battle.

Harry - Yeah, but I'm the Champion, I'm not supposed to lose.

Harmony - Well, should I be put in the Elite 4?

Harry - If I could this year, I would. But after this Badge Run, I see no problem in doing that.

Harry, Harmony, and Gabe all huddle up talking, and I look behind him, catching Duncan's eye.

Duncan - Hey, man!

Archie - Duncan! Long time no see dude.

Duncan - Yeah, Gabe told me you were over here with Harmony, so I figured I'd come and see you, and wish you luck before I left for Capital City.

Archie - Well I appreciate it man, good luck to you too! How's your team doing?

Duncan - They aren't bad! Flygon is extra ready to battle like always. *Flygon pops out of it's ball as if summoned*

As soon as Flygon comes out of it's ball, Excadrill jumps out of his. They stare each other, and begin flapping wings, and clanging claws together just as before.

Harry - *interrupting their group conversation* Those two want a battle!

Harmony - *rolling her eyes* You are just fascinated with battles.

Harry - Well they want to battle! They're fighting for Alpha right now.

Gabe - Boy, I've seen Flygon act crazy for battles, but I've never seen him act like that!

Duncan - Well, Archie, care to let them go at it?

Archie - Yeah! I'm down.

Harry - I'll mediate! You'll both have a battle with the Champion watching over you.

Archie - Get ready to be impressed, Excadrill and I have gotten real strong since you last saw us!

Duncan - We weren't just sitting around for months, we've been training too!

Harry - Then it's settled, you two take your spots. We'll do Excadrill vs Flygon.

Battle Begin: Archie vs Duncan

Archie - Excadrill, you own the ground in this battle! Use Earthquake!

Excadrill begins stomping causing the ground beneath to shake violently. Flygon swiftly takes to the skies, dodging the attack, never taking it's eyes off of Excadrill.

Duncan - Dragon Claw!

Flygon flies around Excadrill quickly, causing him to blink and turn his head, in that second Flygon swoops down, retaliating with a devastating Dragon Claw. Swiping at Excadrill, landing a huge blow. Excadrill stumbles back, bangs his claws together, and stands tall.

Archie - Good job, buddy! He'll do it again, and when he gets close, use Iron Head!

Duncan - Again!

Flygon copies his move, flying around Excadrill trying to cause him to get confused again, but this time Excadrill holds tight. Flygon dives in, and swipes his Dragon Claw at Excadrill, but is met with a fierce Iron Head, creating a dazzling display of steel against dragon. As the battle raged on, both Pokemon taking hits, but they show incredible determination, neither one wanting to go down to the other.

Archie - Use Drill Run, don't let him come near you!

Duncan - Dragon Rush! Don't let him get away.

We both know our Pokemon are weak, they've taken a lot of damage in this battle, and don't want to risk taking another hit. Duncan's Flygon rushes in, and Excadrill switches direction to attack Flygon. In a spectacular collision, causing winds to fill the stadium, both Pokemon, exhausted, are lying on one another.

Harry - WOW! Both Pokemon are unable to battle! It's a draw!

Archie and Duncan draw

Harmony - There you guys go!

Gabe - Yeah, Duncan, I'm proud of you, man! I bet this does nothing more than spark that little rivalry more.

Harmony - I think you're right. They'll respect one another now though I think, but that want for victory is going to grow vastly.

Archie - *Shaking Duncan's hand* Good battle, Duncan!

Duncan - You too, Archie!

Archie - I'll keep training to actually beat you.

Duncan - Well then I'm going to train even harder than that.

Harry - *laughing* I think you two have a good rivalry going! I hope both of you do well in the Badge Run, I'd love to fight one of you at the end of this thing.

Harmony - Why don't we all go back to my house. I'll cater some food for us. I'm STARVING after all of this excitement.

We all go back to Harmony's house. It's huge. Being the best Gym Leader in the region definitely has it's perks. Plus the kickbacks she gets from mom for Pokémon eggs coming from her Pokémon goes a long way. We sit around the table, and eat, and listen to stories of Harry going to the Paldea region and finding Roaring Moon. It sounds like a magical place, I've only heard stories of the paradox Pokémon, and never actually seen one before today. There's a lot of mystery out there. He begins telling how it's not breaking rules because paradox Pokémon aren't legendary, so it doesn't count as one. Here in this league, it's more than okay to have one legendary or mythical Pokemon on your team, but you can't have more than one. Harry's best Pokemon is his Volcanion. Everyone talks about how strong his Tyranitar is, but nobody has ever beaten Volcanion. One battle he was down five Pokémon to the former Champion's one Pokémon, and Volcanion didn't lose a fight. Took on tons of damage, but nothing could topple it.

Duncan - Where do you find legendary Pokémon at?

Gabe - I've told you a hundred times, you don't. I've looked and looked, and have yet to find one.

Harry - I've seen a few legendaries in this region before! We're basically a melting pot of all other regions, so every once in a while we'll get one. If you guys ever go to Agualaria and the Pirate Gym, the islands around there have the most sightings.

Gabe - I've spent months down there, seen nothing. Good luck to you guys!

Harmony - Imagine that, the "hunter" can't find a Pokémon *flashing a playful smirk*

Gabe - Haha! Well I'll find one eventually. For now, I'll just stick with what I have. What're your thoughts on the Run this year?

Harry - There's a lot of young talent in this Badge Run. The young Seaul girl will be in it, Christopher's daughter Zoey from Capital City is really strong as well. And then there's Aaron's cousin, David coming from Agualaria. Most importanlty though, my daughter, Autumn. She's a lot like the two of you *pointing at Duncan and I* Real battle hungry. You guys get to be in what I believe is going to be the toughest Badge Run so far. But you both have proven to be really strong, so I don't think you have to worry!

Finally there's a knock on the door. Harmony runs over and answers and is greeted with a delivery driver holding three large pizzas, and 3 bottles of wine. She poors everybody a glass of wine, including Duncan and I giving us a wink as to keep it between us.

Duncan - I'm going to Capital City early! I'm going to go and see the city, and look for more Pokémon on the way. Archie, do you want to come with me?

Archie - I'd love to, but I can't! I have two friends I have to go and pickup from Preya.

Harmony - One of whom is his little girlfriend, Naomi! She's a strong one too. Really shy and quiet, but I think she'll be a force by the end of it.

Archie - And Noah! He's strong too, and seems to be building a Dragon type team.

Harry - A y-young Dr-dragon train-er? That's ra-r-re these day-y-s.

Duncan - Well, either way, I'll keep an eye out for you in Capital City!

Gabe and Duncan finish eating, and leave the house. Harry not far behind them, he had a little too much wine too drink, his cheeks are flushed, and he keeps saying how this Badge Run will be tough over and over.

Harmony - Alright, Champion, I think it's time I go to bed. See you in a few months in Capital City!

Harry - Al-Al-Alriift See you around, and Arlo, good luck this year!

Harmony - *shoves him out of the house and sighs* Sorry about that, Arlo, he celebrates a lot.

Archie - *Laughing* No it's okay! Arlo has to be the worst name I've ever heard anybody call me.

Harmony - *Bending over laughing* It's so bad! But at least he knows who you are! That's important.

Archie - Apparently everybody does with my Absol.

Harmony - Yeah.. I was hoping to have you two Mega Evolve by now. But that's fine! Sometimes there's just a delay! She seems to love you, and you her, so I don't think you will have to wait long, probably just for the right moment.

Archie - That's fine! We'll stay and train for a few more days, and then I'll go home. I'll battle Naomi and Noah, maybe it'll happen then!

Harmony - Maybe so, but let's get some sleep. I have some big training in store for you and your team. Plus, a little gift for you!

The next morning, Harmony and I leave Acoustica, it's sounds echoing further and further away, showing it's not just a facade for when Harmony is in town, but the whole city really has embraced it's culture. We begin our journey back up the mountain towards Preya Village. Each step crunching against the snow, the sound sort of muffled by the howling wind that whips around, sneaking through the layers of our clothing with icy precision. The air getting thinner and thinner, making every breath an effort. The path getting steeper, dodging jagged rocks protruding like the teeth to some ancient beast.

As we ascend, the landscape transforming. Trees once dense and green, now sparse and stunted, each branch twisted by the wickedly relentless winds. The sky above us was a deep, steel-gray, heavy with the promise of more snow on it's way. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we reached the summit. The wind becoming more ferocious with no mountain sides or dead trees to weaken it's cold bite. But as cold as it was, the view from up here never fails to take my breath away. Far below, nestled in the valley, sandwiched between the mountains lays Preya Village, my home. It looks so small from here, the collection of houses like specks along the terrain.

Harmony - *catching her breath* Alright, Arch! I'm going to let you go home early!

Archie - But, but you said we were training today?!

Harmony - YOU are going to train!

Archie - So I train up here in the cold?!

Harmony - You can if you'd like, but you have about a 2-3 days walk to get back to Preya. What I'd like for you to do is train and spend time with each of your Pokemon on this journey. For a few hours it's you and Aerodactyl, for the next few it's you and Kirlia, and so on.

Archie - Okay, but how does that train?

Harmony - Because, you're a very strong trainer, but from what I've seen your biggest flaw right now, is spending personal time with your Pokemon. You're a great battler, but become best friends with your Pokemon! I see that you truly care for them, and I'm sure they do as well, but enjoy your time with them. Take a few hours each day, and rotate them. At night, have all of them out, brave the cold together.

Archie - You're right, I do just sort of have a battle first mindset, huh?

Harmony - And that's okay! Battling is important in our society, but the difference between a Badge Run challenger, and a Badge Run Champion is that bond with your Pokemon. Everybody has 1-2 Ace Pokemon, and they're super familiar, but the power comes from the extra Pokeballs. If I just trained Meloetta and Rillaboom I'd be strong, but with the rest of my team being as close, and ready to help me out, it's what sets me apart from the other leaders.

Archie - Okay, that's great advice, thank you so much!

Harmony - Not a problem, Arch. You have a tough challenge ahead of you. Trust in your Pokémon, and trust in your friends. I probably won't see you again until we leave for the opening ceremonies. I'll have a flying taxi coming to pick you guys up in Preya.

Archie - *thinking about getting back and seeing Naomi for the first time in months* That sounds great! Only a few more months, I'll do the few hours thing every day. We'll be ready, and I'll do everything I can to make Absol evolve.

Harmony - Good! Speaking of which. Absol is going to be an incredibly hot topic in Capital City.

Archie - I know, I'll keep her in her ball.

Harmony - No, I think it's best you flaunt her.

Archie - You do?! I thought it would put a target on my back?

Harmony - It will. But, Xelandria is a bunch of politics. As much as I respect Harry, he's a very political man. The contender pool is not only large, but it's full this year, so it's important you make yourself known. Become the guy who owns the Black Absol, and if you guys can Mega Evolve by then, even better. Harry's daughter Autumn will be a contender this year as well, and I'm sure she's strong. He'll do everything in his power to help her win. But, I want that to be you.

Archie - Is she strong?

Harmony - I'll bet she's strong, and will have as amazing Pokémon. We did for you what we could, but she's going to have what she wants. I can't give you too much information because it could cause me to be in trouble, and my spot in the Elite 4 or even as a gym leader.

Archie - They wouldn't!

Harmony - If I'm helping you beat her, then yes. So please don't challenge me for a while. I'll have to go as serious as I can. I'm sure Harry will make an appearance in our crowd. I'll be 12/12, make it that way for you.

Archie - Sure, Har. And I'll take this serious, I promise.

Harmony - *tearing up* Oh, I know you will. You've grown so fast. I'm happy to have been your mentor the past few months. You and your Pokemon have caught on so well, and learned so much. *wiping a single tear falling down her cheek and composing herself* But, I did get you a gift!

Harmony reaches into her backpack, and pulls out two boxes. I open the first one and see a blue glowing stone, with a water drop on it.

Harmony - It's a water stone! I wanted you to be able to evolve Lombre. He's a strong spirit, and will only get stronger as Ludicolo. We'll both have a Ludicolo now!

Archie - *Tearing up* That's half of the reason I got him!

Harmony - Now, the other box.

I reach in, and grab this box. The markings on the box much more complex, with hours of detail work. As I open the box, I see a purple silk linen, with an elarged friend ball on top. I grab the ball, toss it up, and out comes a High Amp Toxtricity.

Archie - A Toxtricity?! Are you serious?!

Harmony - As a heart attack *winking at me* As you know, I also have a Toxtricity, so this will make us have two of the same. But this Toxtricity is a special one!

Archie - Why's that?

Harmony - It's the first Pokémon you and I ever hatched together at the farm.

Thinking back, I remember. The countless nights of me jumping out of bed, and running to the incubator to check on the egg. How excited I got when it first started budging. And the pure joy I felt the day Toxel hatched.

Harmoy - I've been saving him for you. I took him home that day, and for the past 3 years, I've been training him. *handing me a Dynamax Band* He also knows a few tricks.

Archie - Are you serious?! Thank you so much!

Harmony - Don't thank me, show me it's worth it.

Archie - It will be. My whole team will make you proud, Har.

Harmony and I hugged for a minute, and said our good byes. I decide to bring out Aerodactyl first. I give him pats on the head, and rub his wings. He kneels down as if for me to climb onto his back. Then together, we soared through the skies. My soul singing with joy, and my face wishing to be further down, longing for warmth. We flew around for hours, gliding through the snowy mountains. The pristine white peaks glistening in the sunlight, breathing a stunning contrast against the gray sky. Frozen waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. As Aerodactyl glided through the crisp air, eventually we spotted a serene creek winding it's way through a lush valley. The closer we got, the sound of the flowing water was soothing, and served as a reminder for us that we should stop and eat lunch with the rest of the team.

As we land, I call the remaining 6 Pokemon out of their Pokeball. Kirlia and Absol quickly find one another, Hawlucha, Lombre and Toxtricity all seemed to get along amazingly, and Aerodactyl and Excadrill finding each other to sit by the stream and take a nap. As I look at my team, I can't help but think about how right Harmony was. I've been so focused on training, that I hadn't taken the time to let any of us rest. So I decide to go ahead and stay here for the night. It's no colder than Preya is, and Harmony packed enough food for all of us to be okay. After lunch, Excadrill, Aerodactyl and I run off and grab some fire wood. At this moment, I realize the glaringly empty spot of a fire type Pokemon on my team. But it's not too long before Toxtricity stepped up, and created a fire with his electric powers. The whole team begins to cheer and celebrate, Toxtricity loving the attention, gleams with happiness, and begins strumming it's chest and celebrating as well. Now seeming like the best time, I pull the water stone out of my pocket and present it to Lombre.

Archie - You ready to evolve, buddy?

"Loooooombre!" Lombre shouts in excitement, jumping up and down with joy.

He grabs the stone, and immediately begins glowing white. His body changing shape in the light, his legs begin moving, and then his arms, the light goes down, and where my Lombre once stood, stands a happy, dancing Ludicolo.

Lombre evolved into Ludicolo

My whole team, surrounding Ludicolo, Aerodactyl flapping it's wings, Excadrill claging it's claws together rhythmically, Toxtricity strumming his chest, Hawlucha flapping and dancing somehow in tune with both Ludicolo and Aerodactyl, Absol jumping up and down, and Kirlia using it's magical powers to create a mist into the air to fall down like confetti. For the rest of the night, there was no training, there were no thoughts of battle, no worrying about Absol Mega Evolving, or what I'll do next. Just our little group dancing and celebrating in the moonlight. That night, we all bundle together and sleep. We wake up in the morning, Kirlia is the first one up. He seems to want to battle. Of my Pokémon, he probably has the least experience, so it makes sense. We're in eye sight of camp, but he's firing psybeams at Fearow, and Hyper Voice at Basculin, as if to show me he's just as ready to battle. We walk around and work on and perfect multiple moves; Shadow Ball, Calm Mind, Hyper Voice, and Psybeam. Then it's time to leave camp, and it's Excadrill's turn to walk around. I recall everybody back, and begin our descent back to home. This path causing new challenges as the terrains shifted from rocky slopes into a dense forest. Excadrill took the lead, using his powerful claws to clear a path through the brush. The two of us working as a perfect tandem, as our hours of battling seeming to pay off. Finally leaving the forest, open fields and rolling hills replacing the terrain,

I call on Hawlucha next. He immediately takes to the skies, performing acrobatic moves, as if partying like last night wasn't over. His energy was infectious, giving me the motivation to keep moving for the day. We walked, and he would try and make me laugh by doing things such as falling out of trees, scaring other Pokémon, and doing tricks in the sky. I think back to Harmony and think again how right she was. They all have completely different personalities. Hawlucha while great on the battle field, seems to be a comedian. As the daylight begins to dim, I call on Absol, who walks right beside me, her keen senses alert to any dangers. She doesn't make many sounds, just seems to be appreciating the serenity of the terrain around us. She would lean in for pats anytime we would stop, and would fire a few Aerial Ace's at any bug Pokemon on the road looking back to me with a huge smile every time she was able to knock one out. That night, again I let every one out. Absol laying close by for a majority of the afternoon and night. The stars above seeming brighter than they ever have before, and I feel a deeper connection to the world around me. My Pokémon are becoming my friends, I'm about to start my journey, and I get to see Naomi and Noah tomorrow. As the sun set, the party picked up again. Toxtricity strumming, and Ludicolo dancing around the fire, his cheerful demeanor lifting my spirits and serving as a welcome distraction from the day's fatigue. I decided to join in, and for a little bit, we all danced around the fire, celebrating, and living in the moment.

The next day, I let Ludicolo and Toxtricity walk beside me for the remaining miles. We should be home just before dark, and they seem to be best friends currently. Ludicolo's positivity helping me push through more than once, and Toxtricity's aura becoming more and more electrifying around us. The closer we got, the more energetic the two seemed to get. And finally, we could see Preya. Ludicolo danced his way into town, and Toxtricity was being as loud as he possibly could. A few people come out of their houses angry at first, and then see me and are a little relieved. The aura of the village seems different now. More quaint, I've grown use to the sounds of Pokemon filling the streets, and the townspeople running around at night. I'm sort of missing the thought of going out in the middle of the night and grabbing a hot bun from an overnight deli. It's not even dark yet, and the street is empty, porch lights are on, and the only sounds filling the air are that of Ludicolo and Toxtricity having fun.

Noah - *From the door of his house* I just knew when I started to hear all of that racket, it was going to be you!

Archie - *Flashing a toothy grin* What kind of entrance would it be if I didn't?

Noah - *Meeting me for a hug* Ahh, I've missed you, brother!

Archie - I've missed you too, man! *embracing the hug*

We talk in the street for about 25 minutes, him telling me about all of the training Naomi and him have done. He loves his Kingdra, and says Armarouge is ready for a rematch against Excadrill. I tell him about how hard my team trained, and showed off Toxtricity. Ludicolo and Toxtricity treating Noah like family, run up and perform their little concert in front of him drawing laughs and more people to come outside.

Archie - Sorry, everybody! They're excited to be home is all.

"You boys take that noise up to the farm. We're trying to eat dinner down here." Noah's angry neighbor calls out of his open window.

Noah and I look at each other and begin laughing, walking up the hill to the farm is all I've been thinking about for two days. I'm ready to see my mom, I'm ready to let my Pokémon roam free in the farm, and most of all, I'm dying to see Naomi. I had my first kiss, and then left her for a few months.

Archie - Noah, you want to bring them all outside?

Noah - What do you mean?

Archie - Well that little "concert" down there? My Pokémon have begun to do that every night for the past few nights. And honestly, that version was quiet.

Noah - *laughing* Really?! Okay, I'm down! Mind if my Pokémon join?!

Archie - I was actually hoping for it! Come on, we'll go in the back yard and make a fire.

Noah and I began gathering sticks and logs for the fire behind my childhood home, the excitement filling the crisp air. Turtonator started the fire this time, and when the flames began to crackle and rise, the Pokémon took it as their que to start their fun. Ludicolo and Toxtricity of course started playing their impromptu concert, with Ludicolo's rhythmic dance moves and Toxtricity's electric guitar riffs filling the night with lively music. I let the rest of my team out, and Noah calls on his Pokémon who began adding to the spectacle, beating on the ground like a drum, Excadrill began clanging his claws, Absol and Kirlia dancing around, and Aerodactyl and Hawlucha with their rhythmic flapping. Hawlucha began doing dances in the air, gliding down, just to go up again. Kingdra is shooting streams of water, Armarouge firing random shots into the sky like fireworks, Scyther clanging it's claws around like Excadrill. Turtonator, Breloom and Flaaffy dancing around with Absol and Kirlia.

Mom - WHO THE HELL IS OUT HERE MAKING ALL OF THIS NOISE?!

Archie - *With a huge smile, and arms spread for a hug* I missed you momma, I figured we could celebrate for being back home.

Mom - *forgetting any anger she had, running and embracing me in a hug, almost knocking the wind out of me* Oh sweetie.. I missed you. *She starts crying*

Archie - *Fighting back tears* I wouldn't be gone long!

Mom - *wiping her eyes* Well, I missed you, but I think there's somebody who missed you a little more.

Mom steps to the side, and standing in the doorway is the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen. Her auburn hair is different now, it's longer, and up in a new style similar to Harmony's, her eyes staring deep into my heart, and the edges of her lips going higher and higher with every passing moment.

Naomi - *running to hug me* *whispering* God, I've missed you. *pushing me away and punching my arm* Don't ever go away for that long again.

Archie - From now on, it's just us traveling together. You don't have to worry about that anymore.

Noah - *coughs* Glad I get to be your third wheel on this journey guys..

Archie - *pulling Noah into our hug* It wouldn't ever be complete without my best friend though, I'm ready for this journey guys.

Mom - *Crying again* You guys stop. Let's celebrate. I'll call Elizabeth, we'll party for the night.

Noah and Naomi's mom eventually showed up, one of her village famous soups in hand as always. The Pokemon dance into the night, the Pokemon from the farm joining in, making an orchestra of sounds. Not all of them are in sync, but they all share the same amount of joy. All of us start dancing along side, everybody laughing and celebrating not only my return, but our long journey on the horizon. We wind up sleeping outside for the most part. Mom and Ms. Elizabeth decided to sleep inside, Ms Elizabeth taking Harmony's room.

Naomi - I missed you, Arch.

Noah - Yeah, buddy. I missed you too!

Archie - We're all together now! We have a month left guys. I've done so much training, and the first match I had I tied with Duncan.

Noah - Y'all got to battle?

Archie - Yeah, dude! Harry Hordull was our referee.

Naomi - Like, Champion Harry Hordull?

Archie - Yep! And I got to officiate a battle between him and Harmony. And Harmony whooped his tail!

Noah - You're joking.

Archie - Dude, I promise you, I'm not. But the battle was so freaking fast paced and intense. I don't think I would've stood a chance.

Naomi - That's fine! That's what this Run is for. We get to begin our journeys.

Noah - Yep, and we have a month left, so we better take advantage of it!

Naomi - Have you and Absol got your mega evolution figured out yet?

Archie - *looking down at Absol who's still awake at my side* No sadly.. We've tried, but just haven't been able to get it to click yet. But it'll come soon! *patting her head*

Naomi - Welllllllll *shows me a Mawileite* We're working on it too! It's a gift from your mother!

Noah - I don't have one yet.. But I think I'm going to evolve Flaaffy and use a Mega Ampharos.

Archie - *looking at Naomi* Freaking Dragon Lord over here.

Noah - Laugh all you want, but we'll show you how it's done!

Naomi - We have a month left guys. It's time to take this serious.

Archie - *putting my hand in the middle of us* To Preya's top trainers.

Naomi - *putting her hand in* It just feels right us doing this together.

Noah - *putting his hand on top of ours* I wouldn't do this without you guys there.

Archie - Let's give them hell, guys.

Chapter 4: Opening Ceremonies

30 days later

Mom - Archie, wake up! The flying taxi is coming today to pick you guys up!

I hear her from my bedroom, but we partied again last night, and I went to bed three hours ago, so I roll over, my bed feeling like the softest cloud there ever was.

Mom - *barging into my room* WAKE UP! I have a huge breakfast prepared, and you need to get packed, you leave in like three hours.

Archie - *Groggily* So PLEASE let me sleep for another hour.

Mom - Nope! Too much to do. Your journey, so you have to get yourself packed.

I have to drag myself out of bed, and down the stairs, but when I get to the kitchen, I wake right up at the sight of everybody. Sitting around our now extended table is; Harmony, Aunt Clair, Naomi, Noah, and Ms. Elizabeth.

Harmony - Good morning, sleepy head!

Archie - *flashing her a grin* You're lucky I got up now.

Aunt Clair - *Giving me a huge hug* Oh, it breaks my heart to see you about to start your journey.. I remember when you were younger you'd come to my gym and pretend to battle along side me.

Archie - I remember that! It's where I knew I wanted to become a trainer.

Mom - Yep, I need all of you to do extra good this year. Your Pokémon did come from Ames farms by the way!

Aunt Clair - Oh hush, Chloe. *laughing*

Noah - Well you don't have to worry about that. We've trained for HOURS every day since Archie got back. Haven't had a day off yet!

Harmony - That's good, Archie, are you able to Mega Evolve yet?

Naomi - He sure can't. He tries all of the time. He battles one of us every single day, and goes for it, but they haven't gotten it to work yet. I think they're a lot closer though. But Mawile and I have it down pact!

Mom - *grabbing Naomi's hand* I knew you would sweetie! As for Archie, it can't be anything about their bond, because they're close as can be. He sleeps with them outside more often than he sleeps in his bed. And Absol is always right by his side.

Aunt Clair - I'm sure that everything will work itself out! They haven't been real intense serious battles, so maybe you and Absol just need a little more emotion for it to work!

Harmony - I've never Mega Evolved before, so I wish I could help you. But that's new territory for me. You might could ask Gabe though if you see him, he's a good ol boy, and I'm sure he'll help.

Archie - Yeah, if it's not working by the next time I will. I hate it too, I was wanting to show Absol off in Capital City.

Mom - Show her off?! Why would you do that?

Harmony - *winking at me* He wants to make a name for himself. Everybody will be looking for him, and he wants to make a statement.

Naomi - That's the most Archie think I've ever heard.

Aunt Clair - Good play though! Let everybody know quick that you mean business. I respect that.

Noah - We'll be there with you to have your back.

We all sit around the table enjoying the meal my mom prepared for us. There's french toast with strawberries on top, my favorite. Bacon, eggs, and grits on the side. After we get done eating, Aunt Clair gives each of us 10 more Great Balls. Mom gives each of us 5 Potions. And Harmony gives each of us 20 Pokeballs, and slides a piece of paper in my pocket, giving me a look that tells me to open this in privacy later on. Eventually the Flying Taxi shows up, and Harmony, Naomi, Noah and I get on, and head to Capital City. Looking down for as long as we can to find Ms. Elizabeth and my mom both crying as their babies go off on their journey.

The Flying Taxi ride through Xelandria was nothing short of breathtaking. Departing from Preya, watching the majestic mountain range fade into the distance, the taxi ascended into the clear blue sky, offering a breathtaking view of the rugged peaks behind us, to the ocean to the right, and the open fields ahead of us. The landscape would transform from dense forests to sprawling meadows, each more picturesque than the last. The vibrant colors of the wildflowers and the sparkling rivers weaving and winding through the valleys were mesmerizing. About halfway through the ride, the Sky Taxi passed over a serene lake, reflecting the sky like a mirror. As we approached Capital City, the large city began to dominate the horizon. Towering buildings and bustling streets below signaled the end of our ride. But the scening memories would linger for a long time after landing.

"Welcome to Capital City." The captain of the flying taxi says from the front.

Harmony - Well guys, what do ya think?

Naomi - Oh, it's beautiful! I've never seen so many buildings.

Harmony - It never fails to take my breath away.

Noah - Ohhh, there's so much we can do! Do we walk around with our Pokémon?

Harmony - Sure if you'd like! Pick your strongest, or the most visually appealing. So Naomi, you and Mawile should walk around, Archie, I feel like I don't have to tell you. Noah, you don't have any shiny Pokémon sadly, but Turtonator or Armarouge will look really good! But if you're shooting for a Dragon type specialist, I'd lean to Turtonator.

Finally the taxi lands, and we climb over each other to be the first one to touch foot in Capital City. Naomi holding us both back jumps out, Noah right behind her, and me right behind him. Harmony gets out casually after paying for the taxi.

Archie - We're racking up quite the bill with you paying for everything, huh?

Harmony - *chuckling* It's not a big deal, I have a lot in savings, and am set for a raise this Badge Run, so I'm fine! You all can make it up to me when you become Gym Leaders!

Naomi - You really think that we can?

Noah - Yeah, I'm a little worried, I can't lie.

Harmony - I think you'll all be fine! Trust in each other, this will be a challenging Run. Understand some people struggle at first. If you find yourself there, don't challenge a gym for a week or two. Training is still important. Most importantly, you all have my number, if you need any help with anything, please call.

Archie - We've got it, Har. Don't worry, you'll see when we all challenge you!

Harmony - I know you do. But guys, I have to get going, I need to meet up with the other Gym Leaders for a meeting. You have the rest of tonight to do whatever you'd like to! And tomorrow, you need to go to The Royal Gym, some people call it the Kingdom. But go there early in the morning, opening ceremonies begin at 9am.

Harry - Harmony Ames! It's good seeing you again.

Harmony - Hey, Harry!

Harry - And it's A...Archie Ames right?

Archie - Yes sir, it's good to see you again! How's the world of a Pokémon Champion?

Harry - Haha! I like this guy, Harmony. It's going well, I've been busy lately, but we start everything up tomorrow, so I'm ready to get the ball rolling. And I don't think I've met you two before.

Noah - Mis-mister Harry, I-It's a pleasure to meet you, sir.

Naomi - H-Hey, I'm Naomi Barlowe, and this guy fan boying here is my brother, Noah Barlowe.

Harry - Ahhh, the Barlowe twins! I've heard good things about you. I'm excited to see how well you do.

Archie - One of us is bound to win this thing!

Harry - *Smiling big* We hope to see it! There's stiff competition this year, I hope that you're ready. However, Harmony, we should get headed to the Kingdom, I'm about to be late to the meeting that I called myself.. Archie, Barlowes, I enjoyed talking to all of you. I'm sure I'll see plenty more of you guys before it's all said and done!

The two of them walked away, fading into the crowd. Noah, Naomi and I wandered through the bustling streets of Capital City, taking in the vibrant atmosphere. We sampled delicious street food from various vendors. Naomi wanted to explore numerous stores, marveling at every unique item and souvenir on display. While Naomi was store jumping, Noah and I couldn't take our eyes off of the grand Pokémon Stadium, the impressive architecture and sheer size of it leaving the two of speechless with a wide toothy grins on both of our faces. Finally after a day filled with excitement and exploration, we made our way to the endorsement hotel.

Naomi - I LOVE the city. I never knew until now!

Noah - That's because we've never been to one besides Acoustica, stupid. Say bye to all of your future money, Archie.

Archie - Haha! I'll bring you here too when I'm champion!

Duncan - Oh so you truly believe, you're going to beat me? *Duncan comes from behind me, grabbing my shoulders and shaking me back and forth in a friendly manner*

Archie - Duncan! It's good to see you again, man! Naomi, Noah, this is Duncan!

Naomi - This is the stranger you met on the mountain?

Duncan - Haha, that's me! Archie talked something fierce about his best friend and his girl friend when we were in Acoustica.

Naomi - His girlfriend?! *blushing*

Noah - I'm the best friend, in case that wasn't clear.

Duncan - *laughter* Hey no judgement, bud! But nice to meet you all, I'm Duncan Odom.

Naomi - *shaking his hand* Oh we know about you too, he did the same good talking about you back in Preya before we came here. We heard all about how your Flygon almost beat Excadrill.

Duncan - I think the same of Excadrill! To this day, Flygon hasn't lost a fight, but Excadrill made sure he didn't have a perfect record.

Noah - I've never been able to beat Excadrill either. Or Absol now sadly.

Naomi - Yeah, they've all gotten ridiculously strong. We battled him every day, and weren't able to win a single time.

"Hmmmph, I bet I could beat him." A snood voice calls out from the couches to the side of the hotel lobby.

Naomi - Oh yeah? And who might you be?

"Oh just another endorsed trainer. The name's Autumn. Autumn Hordull."

Noah - Hordull? As in Harry Hordull?

Autumn - That's my father. And no way I could lose to somebody like you when my daddy is champion.

Archie - Well, I can't wait to test that then. Archie Ames, Harmony's cousin.

Autumn - Well, I know she's tough. But we'll see about you.

Archie - And these are my friends; Naomi and Noah Barlowe, and Duncan Odom.

Autumn - pfft. Barlowe? The kids of a bandit? How were you endorsed?

Archie - Because, they have nothing to do with what their dad has done. And they're strong.

Naomi - He's done bad things, but we want no affiliation with him.

Autumn - Well, just knowing you're here I want to lock up my Pokeballs. And then an Odom. Your brother is middle of the road.

Duncan - My brother's top half, not middle of the road.

Autumn - Anything below 9th strongest is middle of the road.

Duncan - What's your problem?!

Autumn - No problem. I just don't associate with mediocrity.

Archie - *Grabbing Pokeball* Do you wanna see where you stand?

Autumn - Oh please, I'm not going to battle now. No need to embarass yourself before you even begin.

Archie - We have to figure something out. You can't talk to my friends like them.

Autumn - Calm down, Ames. You should be above them. Daddy told me you were strong.

Archie - Well your dad is nowhere as rude as you are.

Autumn - I'm just more blunt.

Naomi - *Grabbing my arm* Let's go, Arch.

Noah - *head pointed down* Yeah man, we can get out of here.

Duncan - *angry* Let's go, buddy. We can worry about her later on.

Autumn - Tata, can't wait to see that Black Absol in person.

We go back to up to my room, all of us decide to stay in our room tonight. Everybody's feeling a bit humiliated after the exchange with Autumn, so we decide to settle in together and get ready for the events of the following day. The room quiet for a little bit, until Noah finally breaks the silence.

Noah - If you guys do want to go ahead of us and not be affiliated I understand. I was worried our name would hurt us.

Archie - Hell no. I've said for years that we're doing this together. I'm not switching up now.

Naomi - What if it hurts you with endorsements?

Archie - Then we don't get those endorsements! Screw her guys. I'm all in on doing this together. I don't plan on backing off because of the mean words of a spoiled brat.

Duncan - I just met you guys, and can tell you are nothing like she was trying to paint a picture of. I'm sorry she did that.

Noah - And I'm sorry that she bad mouthed your brother. Goodness she makes me so mad.

Duncan - And it sucks. Because I know she'd probably beat me in a Pokémon battle.

Naomi - Yeah.. I hate this is the first real encounter with somebody in the Run.

Archie - Hey. You guys cheer up. We are in this together. So what if she's stronger? That'll make us the next 4? There's plenty of time to beat her! I bet she isn't that good of a trainer, just has strong Pokemon.

Noah - Yeah.. Let's hope so. Good night guys. I really am glad that we're doing this together. Duncan, I don't know if you'll stick with us, but it's great having you around man!

Duncan - Not a problem. I'd love to be considered a part of your group.

We all struggle to go to bed that night. Noah is sprawled out on his bed, Naomi and I in my bed. I'm equal parts excited for the Run to begin, angry at Autumn, and nervous to have Naomi in the same bed as I am. Duncan fixes up the couch with the extra pillows and blankets from the closet. In the morning, Skwakabilly are outside of our windows singing their songs. We all take turns showering and getting ready, and go downstairs for a beautiful assortment of breakfast items. We eat a healthy portion, with Duncan going back for seconds and even a third plate. Catching dirty looks from Autumn and the two girls and one boy at her table, who all look to be as judgmental as her.

Naomi - I wonder what they're even over there saying.

Noah - Don't worry about it! I'm sure they're just sucking up to Autumn.

Duncan - There may be a chance to battle them today. 4 of us. 4 of them. What do you guys say?

Archie - Okay. I'll take Autumn. *Looking at Naomi and Noah*

Naomi - I'll get the blonde haired girl.

Duncan - That's Zoey Orville. Born and raised in Capital City, her uncle, Christopher is the Gym Leader here. I'll take that big dude. His name is David Tyler. His brother Aaron is the Gym Leader of Agualaria. That means, Noah you'll get Savannah Seaul. Her sister Serena runs the gym in Vogue Village.

Noah - *taking a big bite of his food* Easy. Plus she's kind of cute, right?!

Naomi - *rolling eyes* We're about to challenge 4 bullies and you're talking about how cute she is. No hitting on the enemy, Noah. Come on. Don't be stupid.

Noah - She can be the enemy and still be cute!

Archie - Hey, shoot your shot buddy! If you beat her, I bet she starts to like you!

Duncan - *laughing* I love to see how fast you guys can switch emotions. Way to not let them get under your skin.

Archie - Yeah guys. We've got your ba-

"Will all Badge Runners now make your way to the Capital City Pokémon Stadium. I repeat. Will all Badge Runners make your way to the Capital City Pokemon Stadium at this time." A voice over speaker boxes throughout the city calls out interrupting me.

Duncan - Alright guys, this is it. Y'all ready?

Archie - *feeling the butterflies* Oh boy, I'm about to puke.

Naomi - *Rubbing my back* I've never seen you nervous before! This is a new Archie.

Duncan - *patting my arm* We've got this little buddy!

We leave the the hotel in an organized yet chaotic group. We're all walking with our cliques, the clear rivalry forming between my group and Autumn's group as we walk to the stadium, Autumn pointing, and the rest talking or whispering or laughing. I reach over and grab Naomi's hand to boost her confidence if even just a little bit.

Naomi - I just really don't like her.

Archie - *pulling Naomi in, as to give her a side hug while we walk* Don't let her bother you, Nay. We'll show her how wrong she is. I'll beat her today in a battle if I'm able to challenge her.

Naomi - *smiling* Thanks, Arch.

As we walk into the stone chiseled stadium, it opens up into a large field. Unlike Harmony's it's just a traditional battle field, but with far more places to sit and watch. A large green field, with a huge Ultra Ball in the middle. Each of us gets a microphone placed on our shirts. The stadium is full, the Badge Run is the single largest money maker for our region. The people paying to go to battles, buying packages to watch on tv, and buying Pokémon even a little bit related to any of the Runners doing good. In the top of the stadium are 14 box seats. One for each Gym Leader, and their stadium crew. And the final one for the Elite 4 and lastly one for the Champion. I look up, and find Harmony's marked by a gigantic music note on the front glass. I see her in the glass looking down, and she gives me a nod of excitement, and gestures for me to grab a Pokeball.

There are already a few trainers who have their Pokémon out, so I wait until we get stopped, and into our places. I grab Absol's pokeball, and while the stadium reaches a quiet pause, and all of the people in the stands and Leaders are looking at us, I throw Absol's ball forward. With a flash of white light, the black Absol stands forward.

The stadium fills with cheer and oohs and ahs. The rotom cameras circling around me, fighting over the which one can get the best shot of my Pokemon and I. Even the contenders can't help but turn their heads to see the marvel before them. Some of the box seats front glass slide open to catch a better look at the black Absol. I look up, and Harmony's smiling, giving me an extra boost of adrenaline.

"That's the inverted Absol!" A voice shouts from the crowd.

"I thought it was a myth." Another voice screams.

Noah - *whispering behind me* Way to make a statement.

Archie - *looking back smiling* We're here to make a name for ourselves, right?

Harry - *Over the intercom* Well, well, well! As I've been telling the people in Xelandria, we're set for a masterclass Badge Run this year! This young man comes all of the way from Preya Village, the cousin of our very own beautiful, Harmony Ames, it's Archie Ames!

"He's related to the best Leader in the region?!" A woman's voice echoes through the crowd.

Harry - He's one of MANY endorsed challengers this year. We have my very own daughter, Autumn Hordull. This city's very own, Zoey Orville. David Tyler from Agualaria, Duncan Odom from Kodiak, and Savannah Seaul from Vogue are all related to gym leaders. It promises to be a phenomenal Run. As a matter of fact, we were all hoping to see a preview of these contenders battling. Nothing too wild, just a 1v1. But, we'll work this on a call out basis. You don't have to participate in this battle.

Harry's words not even out of his mouth yet, and I step forward.

Archie - *pointing to Autumn* I'd love to battle.

The crowd screams in excitement. Absol shifts, her body facing Autumn, crouched down in an attack ready pose.

Harry - A rowdy bunch this year, folks!

Autumn - *grinning and stepping forward* I accept. But, I want to battle that Absol. I'd love to beat it.

Archie - Sounds good to me.

Duncan - *stepping forward, keeping our momentum alive* I'll challenge David. My Flygon vs his best.

"You don't want to, country boy." David retorts from his spot in line.

"I want the girl with the red hair." Zoey Orville says realizing our group is calling out hers.

Naomi - *letting out Mawile and standing up proud* I accept.

Noah - *Standing out of line and pointing to Savannah Seaul* I guess that leaves the two of us.

The crowd is loving it, the rotom cameras are floating around, not knowing which trainer pair to focus on. And Harmony looks down, smiling big. Almost as if she wasn't expecting me to call out Harry's daughter on the first day.

Harry - Okay everybody. Would anybody else like to battle?

The rest of the contenders are quiet. The biggest names are already called out, so they would be nothing more than a lesser battle on the card anyways.

Harry - There you have it! We'll have four different 1v1 battles. Noah Barlowe vs Savannah Seaul first, then Zoey Orville and Naomi Barlowe, the penultimate fight will be Duncan Odom and David Tyler, and the final fight of the day will be Archie Ames vs Autumn Hordull. I love seeing rivalries spark up, and the rate you kids picked one another, I expect a lot of emotion and grit in these fights even if it is just a 1v1. If the rest of the contenders would make their way up to the contenders suite, we'll get this series of battles underway.

Slowly the stadium clears up, leaving just the 8 of us on the field. Duncan, Noah, Naomi and I one the red side of the ball, Autumn and her group on the white side. Both sides having their Pokemon out already for the upcoming battles. The crowd is nothing but scrambled grumbles and whispers, as the fans gather around and talk about what they think will happen, and a few exchanging handshakes to agree to a bet.

Noah and Turtonator vs Savannah and Tsareena

Naomi and Mawile vs Zoey and Hydreigon

Duncan and Flygon vs David and Alolan Exeggutor

Archie and Absol vs Autumn and Pheromosa

Naomi - She has a freaking Ultra Beast? She hasn't even started her journey yet.

Noah - We're seeing her dad's connections now, I guess.

Archie - *Looking at Absol* That's a major type disadvantage, but we've got this buddy, I have the perfect plan.

Duncan - Don't be worried guys. We've got this for sure. It doesn't matter what happens here.

Naomi - Duncan, we don't know each other and I haven't really hung around your Pokémon. But from what Archie tells me, you're strong. I know how strong we all have gotten, so I believe we can win this. It's time to see what all of this training was for. Let's give them hell.

As the crowd's murmurs begin to fade into just the sound of the wind rolling through the stadium, there's a loud booming voice that cuts through the stadium.

Harry - *Walking onto the battlefield* We haven't even started the Opening Ceremonies yet, but we have an amazing set of battles coming up! To make it better, they're all endorsed, so to add to the suspense, the four winners will be dubbed the strongest four in the Badge Run. Megas and Gigantamaxing are allowed! And no 4 move limit. Use whatever your Pokemon knows! Leaders watch closely, fans enjoy, and cameras don't miss anything! This is the first year we've ever allowed this, so let's buckle up and enjoy the ride! Noah. Savannah. Take your spots.

Battle Begin: Noah and Turtonator vs Savannah and Tsareena

Noah taking a deep breath in swallowing the nerves walks up to his spot, Turtonator following him. Savannah and Tsareena walk hand in hand to the front, Savannah's nerves showing a little through the brave face she's putting on. Rotom cameras circling them, seeming to favor Savannah's side and I'm unsure if it's because of her looks or her family's name.

Noah - Let's go, Turtonator. Light them up.

Savannah - You ready to see what Tsareena and I can do, Noah?

Noah - Give me your best shot, sweet cheeks!

Tsareena started the battle with a powerful Play Rough, knocking Turtonator back. But Turtonator retaliated with an equally strong Flamethrower, scorching the battlefield and causing Tsareena to recoil in pain. "You've got this, Tsareena, hang in there babe!" "Turtonator, don't stop now, another!" Turtonator unloaded another Flamethrower, with Tsareena jumping over it, and answering with a High Jump Kick to an exposed Turtonator's face, knocking him back, flipping end over end and crashing hard into the ground.

"Follow up with another Play Rough!" "Get up, Turtonator! Shell Trap!" As Tsareena lands the hit, she's trapped, Turtonator knocked backwards from the super effective hit and Tsareena is engulfed in flames and explosions. The dust settles to show Turtonator still swaying side to side, and Tsareena knocked out on the ground.

Harry - Tsareena is unable to battle. Noah and Turtonator win!

Noah and Turtonator win.

The cameras swirl around Turtonator and Noah, his face radiating a certain happiness I've never seen from him.

Harry - What a start to these fights ladies and gentlemen! Noah Barlowe takes the first battle. Next up we have Naomi Barlowe and her Mawile challenged by Capital City's very own Zoey Orville and her Hydreigon.

They walk to the middle of the field, and shake hands. Noah turning back towards us, a huge smile on his face with Turtonator having a similar smile on his face.

Noah - AHHHH! I won my first official Badge Run battle! *embracing us in a hug*

Naomi - Good job, bubba!

Noah - I knew Tsareena was the perfect opponent to use that attack on. I was saving it for you though, Archie.

Archie - Haha! It was a brilliant plan. I'll know to look out for it going forward now! *with a wink in Noah's direction*

Duncan - Good job, bud! Letting our little group here start off with a win is huge! Now they'll be playing catch up.

Archie - I bet they don't put their nose up at the Barlowe name again.

Naomi - And I'm going to give them another reason not to.

Harry - Will the challengers please take the pitch. It's time to battle!

Battle start: Naomi and Mawile vs Zoey and Hydreigon

Noah - Zoey knows this is a terrible fight for Hydreigon right?

Duncan - I think she just chose her strongest Pokémon, not paying mind to what Naomi picked.

Archie - Well, Naomi has a few tricks up her sleeve to make this even more one sided.

In the heart of the arena, the crowd's excitement was still heavy from the previous fight. Naomi nodded over to Mawile who ran into the middle of the field, and Zoey ordered her Hydreigon to fly in. "Let's do this, Mawile, we won't waste any time girl! Mega Evolve!" With a great white glow, Mawile transformed into Mega Mawile, it's jaws becoming even more menacing and hungry for battle. The crowd erupts in excitement, Noah and Duncan are excited to see that Naomi was able to mega evolve. I know Naomi and Mawile have been out there with Absol and I every day perfecting their mega evolution, while Absol and I still struggle to get it done, I can't help but be a bit jealous of their ability. I smile in excitement though, watching Noami take over and be the center of attention on the battle field. Her face and smile radiating, with Rotom cameras getting close up shots of her pretty face.

Zoey - Hydreigon, Dark Pulse.

Naomi - Dodge that, and use Play Rough!

Mawile nimbly evaded the Dark Pulse, closing the distance to Hydreigon with blink and you'll miss it speeds. Then delivering a flurry of playful, powerful strikes, dealing quad effective damage to Hydreigon sending it flying into the battlefield below. "Again, Mawile." Naomi commands from her spot. "I know we aren't done yet, Hydreigon. Flamethrower." Mawile charges in, meeting a nasty super effective Flamethrower from Hydreigon stopping her in her tracks. "Again, Hydreigon." "Mawile, Protect, and then follow up with Iron Head!" Mawile staggering but still on it's feet formed a shimmering barrier just in time, blocking the Flamethrower and emerging unscathed. Then quickly retaliating, it's jaws glowing as she charged forward slamming into Hydreigon with a powerful Iron Head. "Flamethrower!" Hydreigon unleashes another powerful Flamethrower as it was falling due to the force of Mawile's Iron Head, Mawile in the air, defenseless, is unable to avoid the attack. Both Pokémon slamming into the grassy battlefield with a large amount of force. The dust settles and both Pokémon still stand.

Zoey - Finish this, charge in and another Flamethrower.

Hydreigon staggers to it's feet and uses the remaining energy it has to fly directly at Mawile.

Naomi - Protect again. Then let's finish this with Play Rough.

That familiar shimmering barrier showed up around Mawile, protecting her from the Flamethrower, and she dashed forward once more, delivering another barrage of playful yet devastating strikes. Hydreigon struggled to withstand the onslaught, and with one final hit, Hydreigon went flying, crashing into the barrier separating the field and the bleachers.

Harry - And the Barlowe twins win the day!

Naomi and Mega Mawile win.

The crowd erupts in cheers as Naomi and Mawile stand victorious. Naomi and Zoey, who looks really defeated, walk to the center of the stadium, shake each other's hands, and walk back to their respected group. Looking up, I see Harmony celebrating in her box, and overhear voices behind us talking about how tough this year's Runners are. The cameras directly following Naomi and capturing the smiles and hugs we all give one another in celebration of our group starting off so well.

Noah - You did it! We won our battles!

Naomi - As I expected!

Noah - You and Mawile did an amazing job, that was one incredibly strong Hydreigon.

Archie - *running up, giving Naomi a hug* I knew you would do it!

Naomi - *hugging me a bit tighter* Thank you for working with us on Mega Evolving. We couldn't have won that battle without Yours and Absol's help. *She reaches down, patting Absol in appreciation* Now, it's y'all's turn to figure it out.

Archie - We will eventually! Absol was over here getting excited watching you guys fight. I'm hoping the atmosphere helps us out a little bit.

Duncan - Sorry to interupt you two love birds, but we still have more battles to go. Naomi, I'm not going to lie to you, she may be the second strongest person on that side behind Autumn. You handled yourself incredibly well.

Naomi - They're only that strong because of who trained them. We had Clair and Harmony for years. You're up next, good luck!

Archie - *patting Duncan on the back* You and Flygon have this man!

Harry - *almost on cue* Alright, time for our next battle! We have Duncan Odom vs David Tyler! A clash of Dragons!

Battle Begin: Duncan and Flygon vs David and Alolan Exeggutor

The air surrounding the arena now is electric after the previous two fights, how could it not be. The cameras are flying around, Duncan and David have 3 a piece on them. The penultimate fight. Both related to well known Gym Leaders who already have a distaste with one another. David and his towering Alolan Exeggutor, it's long neck swaying gently in the breeze. Opposite him was Duncan with his Flygon hovering gracefully, each flap of it's wings creating a gentle hum.

David - Let's take this hick down, Exeggutor! Dragon Hammer!

Duncan - Flygon hasn't lost yet, and he damn sure won't start with you. Dodge that, and use Dragon Claw!

Exeggutor's neck swung down with immense force, aiming to strike Flygon with a powerful blow. But Flygon swiftly evaded the Dragon Hammer, his claws glowing with draconic energy as he slashed into Exeggutor. Exeggutor staggered, but quickly regained his balance. "Leaf Storm, Exeggutor!" On command, Exeggutor summoned a swirling vortex of leaves, launching them towards Flygon with incredible speed. "Flygon, counter with Flamethrower" Flygon breathed a stream of Flames, incinerating the leaves mid-air and continuing towards Exeggutor.

David - Protect, and use Dragon Tail!

Exeggutor is protected by the barrier around it, repelling the Flamethrower all around it. His tail glowing with draconic energy as it swung around hitting Flygon, who fell to the ground. "Flygon, use Earthquake to break the landing!" Unleashing a powerful tremor, shaking the arena, and disrupting Alolan Exeggutor's balance. Exeggutor wobbled, but stayed upright. "Don't give up, buddy! Let's use Giga Drain, Exeggutor!" Alolan Exeggutor's eyes glowed green as it sapped energy from Flygon, restoring some of it's own health.

Duncan - Finish this buddy! Dragon Rush!

David - We choose when it's over, Draco Meteor!

Flygon surrounded itself in the draconic energy flowing from the field, and charged at Exeggutor with full force. Exeggutor summoned a barrage of meteors from the sky, crashing down towards Flygon. The two powerful attacks colliding in an explosion of energy. Both Pokémon are visibly exhausted, but stand as to not be the first to faint. Flygon with every bit of strength he could muster stays upright, while Exeggutor, despite it's wonderful effort, collapsed to the ground.

Duncan and Flygon win the battle.

Harry - There you have it! Duncan Odom and his Flygon are the winners!

Duncan walks to the middle of the battlefield for David to scoff at him and refuse a handshake. The crowd has a mixture of loud cheers and louder boos. David walks back off, waving to the crowds, showboating as much as possible over his victory. Duncan walking to us, his jaws clenched trying to hide the smile forming.

Duncan - Boy.. I thought he had me on that one.

Archie - Dude, you killed it!

Naomi - Yeah, you and Flygon look amazing. Archie was right about you. Here's your official "welcome to the group" moment!

Duncan - *shyly laughing* Thank y'all.

Noah - Yeah man, great battle. And we'll have your back from this point forward. You can count on us.

Duncan - That means you get to battle the Princess, Archie. She'll be tougher than most of the Gym Leader's probably. So be careful.

Archie - *looking at Absol* Oh, this is the moment I've dreamed of since I was a kid. I think we're going to try to Mega Evolve at the beginning of the fight.

Naomi - Are you sure?! What if it fails.. You might become a laughing stock.

Archie - That's a risk I think we're going to have to take. We have Aerial Ace that I'm going to use like crazy, but without Mega Evolving, I think this fight will be a lot closer than I want it to be. I want to win this.

Harmony - *running to us on the field* Great job, guys!

Archie - What're you doing here?

Harmony - Elite 4 Jasmine said that Harry requested I come down to the battlefield to stand by you guys.

Naomi - So you're getting to see us whoop their asses up close then, huh?!

Harmony - Haha! You seem fiesty right now, Naomi! Yes I do, you guys are causing quite a roar with the gym leaders. Some really excited to see what you guys can do, and others worried because you're beating who they trained. And I've had a few companies already message me about your contact info. Naomi, you made quite the impression!

Naomi - For real?! That makes me so happy! *her face radiating like I've never seen before*

Archie - They should be worried. I'm about to beat the Champion's daughter now too. So we'll see who calls for me.

Harmony - She's really strong, Archie. Don't feel bad if you lose this.

Naomi - *Glancing in my direction, her ocean blue eyes staring deeply into mine* Yeah, Arch. I'm sure this will be a really tough battle.

Harmony - You won't win this on brute strength alone. I'm sure Harry wants his daughter to beat you as bad as I want you to beat her. Especially after the elites of Xelandria lost to you guys. This battle means so much more than you would think it does.

Harry - *over intercom* Everybody, the lovely, Harmony Ames! She gets the credit for training the Barlowe twins and Archie Ames! I trained my daughter, Autumn Hordull. I've witnessed both of these young trainers battle, and I know we're in for a treat here today. The pride and joy of two of the strongest trainers in the Xelandria Region. Autumn, Archie, please take your spots. Will you please join me center field, Harmony. We'll mediate, and get a front row seat to what our training has produced.

Harmony grabs my face, tells me she believes in me, and walks to the center of the stage. The crowd loves her. It's almost as loud as Acoustica right now with their cheers for her. Harmony reaches Harry and gives him a hug, then waves to the crowd, causing another uproar, louder than the first. They take their spots by the median.

The arena fills with cheers, and a booming music over the intercom. I start to feel butterflies come back in my stomach. I slap both sides of my face to try and calm myself down, for Absol to stand beside me and offer me some strength. I take a deep breath in, compose myself, and walk to my spot on the battlefield. The atmosphere now the most electric it's been today, shooting adrenaline down my body like a bite of Ms. Barlowe's soup on a cold day in Preya. I stand confidently on my end of the field, with Absol by my side, her eyes sharp glaring forward. Autumn and her Ultra Beast, Pheramosa stand opposite, Pheromosa's elegant form overflowing with an intimidating aura.

Battle Begin: Archie vs Autumn

Archie - Let's waste no time, Absol. Mega Evolve!

The crowd gasps. The key stone on my necklace, and Absol's necklace began glowing, a powerful energy illuminating from each. But before they could meet causing the Mega Evolution, as it had so many times before, the connection was lost.

There's laughter from the crowd, booing, and shouts of how this fight will be over quickly. I look over and see Harmony and the other direction in a panic and catch the eyes of Naomi, both showing the look of despair on their face that I felt inside.

Autumn - Hahaha! You two can't even Mega Evolve?!

Archie - We haven't gotten it to work yet. But we don't need it. *Giving Absol a proud, reassuring smile.*

Absol looks at me as if to apologize, and then looks ahead. Glaring at Pheromosa, seeming to be undisturbed by the aura coming from the Ultra Beast. This is the toughest battle we've had so far. I hope we can do this.

Archie - Absol, let's start off strong. Psycho Cut.

Autumn - Pheromosa, dodge that and use High Jump Kick.

Absol starts moving first, closing in with her speed, her horn glowing with psychic energy launching a crescent shaped blade towards Pheromosa. Pheramosa gracefuly evaded the attack with speed almost unreal, she lept into the air, delivering a powerful kick to Absol's mid section. Absol was sent sprawling, but regained her footing rather quickly thanks to the training we did with Harmony against fighting type moves.

Autumn - Your Absol can take a hit, I'll give you that. Try this on. Pheromosa, Lunge.

Archie - We've trained for this very moment. Try another, Psycho Cut!

Absol jumps in first again, her horn glowing, launching the attack. Pheromosa dodged the attack with ease, closing the distance, striking Absol with a swift and powerful lunge. Absol was pushed back, clearly struggling against the devastating, high speed assault.

Archie - Absol! No! T.. try to Rapid Fire with Aerial Ace!

Autumn - Dodge that, and use Bug Buzz.

Absol fires one, two, three, four Aerial Aces in Pheromosa's direction. Every move from Pheromosa seems strategic and pre thought of. She deftly dodges each attack, unleashing a high pitched sound wave, hitting Absol squarely and causing her to stagger. Absol on the brink of collapse, stands up. She sways back and forth, with Pheromosa just watching like a lion would watch it's prey.

Archie - Absol... I'm sorry.. Please hold on!

Autumn - This is getting pathetic. I'm actually starting to feel bad for you. I thought you'd be a tougher opponent, Ames. Momo, let's finish this, babe. Focus Blast.

Archie - *feeling all of the anger in me boiling* We won't lose to somebody like you. Let's use Night Slash to break the attack!

Pheromosa begins gathering energy, preparing to launch the finishing attack. Absol's horn glows with a dark energy, lunching at Pheromosa. Pheromosa unleashes the Focus Blast, which Absol intercepts in the air with Night Slash, knocking the Focus Blast into the barrier in front of the stands saving the crowd from a nasty attack. Absol slides back 10 feet from the shockwave of the blast. She channels all of her strength, legs wobbling as she stands up. Looks me in the eyes, lets out a bone chilling howl, and with a burst of shimmering energy, she begins glowing. The crowd gasps, Autumn stops in her tracks, I look down and our Mega Stones are finally connected through the shimmering energy.

Archie - *Feeling all of the confidence rush back into my body* Yes! Let's go Absol. Time for the real fight to begin!

Absol finishes the transformation, her wings spreading wide and her power surging, Pheromosa sensing how much stronger she just got stands in a battle ready position, not the relaxed posture she's had thus far.

Autumn - I guess you figured it out after all. But you are still no match. Lunge.

Archie - It's our time to shine now! Aerial Ace!

Pheromosa charges at Absol, Absol launching three rapid fire Aerial Aces. Pheromosa dodges the first, but is unable to dodge the second or the third. Stopping in it's tracks she takes the first hit really well, but the second attack sends Pheromosa flying backwards.

Archie - Let's go! Close in, and Psycho Cut!

Autumn - Dodge it, babe. Bug Buzz.

Absol charges up the psychic energy, unleashing the attack at Pheromosa. This Psycho Cut much more powerful than the previous one, Pheromosa is unable to dodge. She uses Bug Buzz at the last second to mitigate the damage, but the attack still lands.

The crowd erupts. They get to be a first hand witness to a masterclass battle. An ultra beast and a Mega Absol giving everything they have. My friends behind me are equally as pumped up, letting out oohs and ahhs with every attack, Autumn's friends behind her reacting the same way in favor of Pheromosa.

The battle rages on, with Absol using her new increased attack and speed to stay on par with Pheromosa. Aerial Ace here, Psycho Cut there. Pheromosa always seeming to be able to dodge or mitigate the damage at the last second.

Autumn - Focus Blast.

Archie - Dodge that, Play Rough!

Pheromosa began charging up it's attack again, releasing it finally. Absol evaded the attack with a graceful leap, then closed in on Pheromosa, delivering a flurry of playful, powerful strikes. Pheromosa was knocked back, clearly weakened. "Let's go for the win, Absol! Aerial Ace!" Absol didn't rapid fire like normal, she let go one large wave of energy, engulfing Pheromosa and sending her crashing onto the ground.

The crowd screams with cheers as Absol stands victorious, her form radiating with power and pride. She turns to me, huge smile and begins jumping up and down like she did so many times at our bonfire parties.

Harry - *cutting through the cheers of the crowd* Now everybody! I don't think I'm ready to see this battle end! Why don't we make this a 3v3?! *met with louder cheers from the fans, and extra camera drones coming down as to not miss any action.* Well well well, I think the crowd speaks for all of us. Why don't you guys keep on going!

I look back at Harmony. She looks disgusted, but nods her head at me as if to say to go on.

Archie - Fine, we'll finish this, right Absol?!

Autumn - There's no way! How did YOU beat ME?! I'll throw my partner Pokemon out then. It's your turn, old friend, Venny, go!

In a flash of light, Venasaur emerged it's size a lot bigger than I would imagine. "Mega Evolve, Venny!" Venasaur covered once again in energy and light began transforming. It grew larger, its flower blooming with vibrant colors, and it's leaves spreading out, ready to absorb any attack. Absol standing, her sleek black fur glistening, she let out a roar, and prepared for the next battle. The two Mega Pokemon faced each other, the crowd cutting through the tension with screams of excitement.

Autumn - *angrily* Petal Blizzard.

Archie - *with full attention* Psycho Cut.

Absol's horn began glowing with the psychic energy as she lunged at Venasaur with incredible speed. Venasaur simultaneously unleashed a storm of razor sharp petals, creating a mystical display of power. The two attacks collided, creating a burst of energy that shook the ground, and sent wind and leaves flying throughout the stadium. Absol managed to break through the Petal Blizzard, landing a direct hit onto Venasaur. Venasaur stepped back, but remained grounded.

Autumn - Earthquake.

Archie - Aerial Ace.

Absol quickly leaps into the air, narrowly avoiding the Earthquake. She's moving now a lot like Pheromosa. Elegant, swift movements. She picked up new tricks! Her blade like horn began glowing, and unleashed a similar Aerial Ace as in the battle before, slashing down, and striking Venasaur hard, causing him to roar in pain.

Autumn - Stay Up, Venny. Use Frenzy Plant!

Archie - *feeling the desparation in Autumn's voice* Use Aerial Ace on the plants, and then Psycho Cut.

Vines erupted from the ground, aiming to entangle and beat Absol. Absol swiftly jumps in the air, dodging the vines with her agility, and sends the large Aerial Ace downward destroying the vines on the battlefield. She closes in quickly, delivering another powerful Psycho Cut, catching Venasaur off guard. Venasaur staggered back, clearly weakened, but still standing.

Archie - You've got this, bud. Finish it with Night Slash.

Absol gathered dark energy on her horn, and unleashed a powerful Night Slash, hitting Venasaur squarely. Venasaur let out a huge roar, and collapsed to the ground, unable to continue the battle. The stadium falling silent as the dust settles.

My friends begin the roar, but it's quickly met by the crowd. Talks of how strong my Absol is, how it must be a cheat. Harry looking somewhat angry, and Harmony trying her best to show how happy is in this moment.

Autumn - UGHHH! Last chance. Krookodile. Don't let me down.

Archie - Do you want to finish this out, Absol?

"Ab. Sol." Absol retorts with determination.

Absol's fur now eminating a powerful, intimidating energy.

Archie - Let's go, Night Slash!

Autumn - Let her get close, and use Earthquake.

Absol rushes forward, her horn glowing with that familiar dark energy. She slashes at Krookodile with a swift, powerful attack. Krookodile takes the hit, still standing firm. He begins stomping on the ground, causing a massive tremor that shakes the battlefield, Absol tries leaping away, but the ground beneath her cracks and shifts, dealing significant damange. Absol standing up barely, unable to take another hit.

Autumn - Don't let up. Crunch.

Archie - Stop that with Night Slash.

Krookodile lunges at Absol, with his powerful jaws, catching Absol's Night Slash, causing both Pokemon to be blown back. Absol slow to get up, but still stands. Krookodile jumping up almost immediately.

Archie - You sure you can do this, Absol?

"Ab." Absol says, horn glowing with energy.

Archie - Alright bud. Let's use Play Rough.

Absol charges in to Krookodile, shrouded in a fairy aura. She tackles and strikes Krookodile with incredible force, dealing a super effective hit. "Krookodile, use Stone Edge!" Krookodile, flying backwards, summons sharp stones from the ground, hurling them at Absol. The stones strike with precision surrounding the battlefield, but Absol dodges them gracefully, just as Pheromosa did to our attacks earlier, sending Nigh Slashes and Psycho Cuts at the ground predicting where they will come from.

"FINISH THIS, ABSOL! GET THROUGH AND FINISH HIM."

"Time to beat this Absol, Outrage."

Both Pokémon charge in, Absol covered in fairy aura, Krookodile in a draconic aura. They dash in, meeting one another at the ultra ball in the middle of the field. with a powerful clash of attacks. The dirt and dust settle, revealing both Pokémon standing and breathing heavy. Finally, after what seems like a century, Krookodile and Absol simultaneously let out a battle cry, and fall to the ground.

Harry - Krookodile and Absol are both unable to battle! Autumn is down all three Pokémon. Battle over. Archie wins.

Archie and Absol win

The crowd goes ballistic, and feeling the energy I rush to the center of the field, and reach Absol who is now back in her original form. I rub her black fur, say thank you, and return her to her Pokeball. Autumn stands in front of me, and looks like she's seen a ghost. Her eyes failing to meet mine, and instead staring at the Ultra Ball design underneath our feet.

Archie - That was an incredible battle. You have really strong Pokémon.

Autumn - Not strong enough.

Archie - Don't get down on yourself, if we hadn't have unlocked our Mega Evolution, you would've smoked us. Pheromosa is amazing.

Autumn - So amazing your Absol started to copy her moves, huh?

Archie - Don't blame us for adapting. Look, you did amazing, your Pokémon did amazing. *Reaching out my hand* Can we let bygones be bygones?

Autumn - Sorry, Ames. This makes me just hate your friend group more. We'll see each other again. I promise to be stronger.

Autumn never reached out for my outstretched hand, instead walks back to her side. I turn, stand, and wave at the crowd. The cheers are deafening, but I soak in every last inaudible word. This is what I've dreamed of for so long, and it's finally here. I hear a few people say things like they wonder what gym I'm going to run next year, and I begin smiling, radiating confidence.

Harmony - *rushing to meet me with a hug* You did amazing! And you can Mega Evolve now!

Archie - I know! Ahhhh! Pokemon are so freaking cool! Thank you for all of this!

Harmony - Thank you for making me look so good! You guys just made every single person in Xelandria know your names. That was BRILLIANT battling.

Naomi - *breaking up our conversation with a big hug* You guys did wonderful! We've trained EVERY DAY together. How is Absol that freaking strong?!

Duncan - Yeah man, you have yourself quite the mon. I'm sure every Gym Leader is worried about battling you.

Harmony - *playfully* Well, most Leaders maybe.

Archie - *smiling big* You'll be worried by the time I make it to Acoustica. I want that one!

Noah - You did it, man! I think it's safe to say you're the strongest trainer in the Badge Run this year. Starting off on top, who would've thought?

Harmony - Don't go making his head any bigger. You are strong for sure, but don't stop training. Especially now. That girl is going to make it her sole mission to beat you now.

Archie - Why did they switch to a 3v3?

Harmony - I think a little of viewership, but a lot of Harry not wanting his daughter to lose.

Duncan - Hell, she sure didn't lose. She got embarrassed.

Noah - She sure did! It started off rough too. I've never seen you look so worried, Arch.

Archie - Yeah.. I was overwhelmed there for a bit..

Harmony - You regained composure really well though. Remember, your Pokémon will react to your emotions. So if you're worried or overwhelmed, Absol will be too.

Harry - *over intercom* Ladies and Gentlemen! Now that all of the battling has come to an end, will all Runners please make your way back down to the field?

After about 10 minutes, everybody is back on the field just as before. The sun up high, casting a slow burn on the occupants of the stadium. The cameras are still swirling around, catching random trainers and their Pokemon. All cameras making sure to circle around my group a little extra when they make it to us. Noah and Duncan posing, Naomi using it as a chance to kiss my cheek and hug me.

The top of the stadium closed, making it dark, I almost couldn't see Naomi to the side of me. Suddenly, in the center of the stadium, a stage, illuminated by a dazzling array of lights, and the Xelandria Champion, Harry Hordull accompanied by my Harmony stepped forward to address the crowd.

Harmony - Welcome, trainers and Pokémon enthusiasts, to the Xelandria Regions 34th Badge Run!

The crowd explodes with excitement, as their all excited to witness how this all unfolds.

Harry - We welcome you all in! What a joyous celebration! Trainers, Leaders, Fans, are you ready?! We have a brilliant Run on the horizon. First and foremost we'll go over the rules for everybody. As you are all aware, each gym will be worth a number of points. There are tiers of each Gym that was recently made, and the harder the gym the more points it's worth. When you arrive at a gym you'll know how many points that gym is worth. Every single gym battle will be a 6v6 contest. You are allowed to either G-Max or Mega Evolve your Pokemon in any battle, but never both. You are only allowed one Legendary or Mythical Pokemon. For this year we will not count Ultra Beasts, or Paradox Pokemon as legendaries, but no more than one of them in your party as well. You are allowed to stack though if able. For example, if you have an Articuno, Buzzwole, and a Scream Tail in your party, that is completely legal.

Harmony - We're trying to build the best format we can for this Run. To ensure so, we're extending our play in tournament from 16 spots to 32. You'll be knocked out of the Badge Run with three gym battle losses. After that, we will have two play in tournaments. The first one will be 9 months from now. In this tournament ONLY the top 8 will get back in. Then another tournament 15 months from now. This one will also be extended, it will be a 16 person tournament. Of the 16, only the top 2 trainers get a shot at winning again. The winner of each getting 3 additional points. If you lose the first tournament, you will not be eligible for re-entry to the second. And if you are in the top 8 of the first tournament, you will start back in with 2 losses, but if you win, you start back with 1 loss. The second tournament second place will rejoin with 2 losses to their name, and the winner will have only 1 loss.

Harry - Can we get a round of applause for our 4 victors today?! Archie Ames, Naomi Barlowe, Duncan Odom, and Noah Barlowe, congratulations for battles well fought. I believe all trainers today showed they were given their endorsement for good reasons. As a prize for winning today you'll all be given 5 points, and dubbed the top 4 trainers so far. Archie, since you overcame a more difficult task, winning against 3 rather than 1 Pokémon, you'll receive 10 points, and may I officially announce, you're the #1 ranked trainer for the time being. The crowd erupts in excitement again, and there are some excited yelps coming from the challengers as well.

Above Harry some of the Rotom form a screen and show a list of rankings, with only 4 names on it currently. It reads.

1. Archie Ames, 10

2. Naomi Barlowe, 5

3. Duncan Odom, 5

4. Noah Barlowe, 5

Harry - Archie, Naomi, Duncan, and Noah have proven themselves to be the best prepared for this Run. As the Run goes on and you gain and/or lose points, your name will be updated on this list. We will go from 1-100. The PokeNet will stay updated constantly, with every single gym battle being recorded so you can go back and study your future Runners, or any Leader.

The Runners below exchanged determined glances, their competitive spirits ignited by the challenge ahead. The crowd's cheers grew louder, filling the stadium with an electric energy. As the ceremony concluded, the trainers dispersed, ready to embark on their journey across the Xelandria Region, each one dreaming of victory and the glory that awaited them.

Harmony - We hope this is enough to get the most out of your Badge Runs! We expect this to be the most competitive Run in our history, so here's to making that happen. Trainers, it's been a pleasure hosting you today. Tonight we will hold the traditional Badge Run dinner, all challengers, leaders, elite 4 members, and select sponsors are welcome to attend. Until then, feel free to go around town and visit any potential deals or just explore the wonderful food and entertainment of Capital City.

Harmony - *Giving me another hug before leaving the stage, quietly whispering in my ear* I had my attendees put something in your rooms for you guys. Show up to this dinner tonight in style.

Naomi, Noah, Duncan and I leave the stage, being allowed to be the first ones to leave the field. We walk through the streets and see a few shop keepers and restaurant owners on their balconies waving to us, and throwing us free food and items in hopes of us being potential sponsees for them. We dabble around town, shaking hands, having people call out to us.

Noah - Dude, we have fans. *blushing*

Duncan - Soak it in, brother.

Noah - You know, those guys minus David and Autumn really weren't that bad.

Naomi - I thought Zoey was really nice when we met actually! She seemed like she enjoyed our battle at the very least.

We begin looking around, stopping at a coffee shop to grab a quick bite to eat to hold us over and Naomi wants to try this drink that's pink. When walking along comes our challengers from earlier today. Savannah and Zoey with smiles when they see us. David looking down, and Autumn looking disgusted.

Savannah - Hey guys! You all did really well today!

Noah - Thank you! You guys did amazing as well. Those were some pretty intense battles to start the Run huh?

Savannah - Haha! I guess they were. You and Turtonator were strong, I really thought we had you. I didn't think you would do that shell trap.

Noah - *gesturing to me* I was trying to keep that move a secret for him. But I knew that if I didn't do it then you would have beaten me. You and Tsareena are really strong!

Savannah - *blushing* Thanks.

David - I'd be trying to keep secrets too, that Absol is incredibly strong.

Noah - It wasn't even for Absol, it was for his dang Excadrill.

Duncan - Yeah, that thing is a beast in battle too. Flygon and him tied in a battle.

Zoey - Well, I thought I was getting lucky challenging you, red head, but that Mawile was something else.

Naomi - Thank you! We trained really hard over the past few months. Your Hydreigon was able to tank more hits than I thought it would! I thought it would only take one good one to win, but I was so wrong.

Zoey - *smiling* Thank you!

Autumn - I'm going to the hotel.

Archie - You did amazing too, Autumn. That Pheromosa was the toughest battle I've ever had.

Autumn - Not tough enough. *Walks down the street*

Zoey - *looking at me* Don't mind her, that's the first time she's ever lost a fight. I thought Pheromosa was going to destroy you, you even looked lost and scared at one point.

Naomi - I was super nervous myself! That Pheromosa was so fast and hit hard. I had a bad feeling whenever the Mega Evolution didn't work at the beginning. But you guys FINALLY did it! *putting her hand on my arm*

Savannah - Well, I promise I don't like that you have it now. I would love to challenge one of you guys again in the future. That was a fun battle, Noah! I'm going to take a shower though, so I'll see you guys at the dinner.

David - Yeah, I'm going back too. I'll get my revenge, country boy.

Duncan - Yes sir, see you around.

Zoey - I think that's my cue to go. Savannah is my roomie, so I don't want to get locked out. Thank you guys for the great battles. It's nice finding tough rivals at the beginning of everything. See you guys tonight!

Noah - Well, I fully expected them to hate us after that.

Naomi - I think one of them still does.

Duncan - Well, hates one of us at least. *playfully bumping my shoulder*

Archie - I was hoping that she'd at least apologize to you guys after that battle, but I think I made it worse.

Naomi - We know, it's okay!

Noah - Yeah man, we know you have our backs.

We all join together in a celebratory huddle, hugging and reminiscing our win for the day. Eventually our food is gone, Naomi's drink is gone, and we gather our things and head back to the hotel. Catching yelps and screams from eager fans throughout the streets, we look to each other basking in our glory. We're starting our Run as the top 4. What could go wrong?!

Chapter 5: The Banquet

Duncan - Leafeon, Glaceon. Stop fighting each other. Glaceon, Ice Beam on Ludicolo. Leafeon, Leafblade on Toxtricity!

Archie - Dodge that guys! Toxtricity, counter with Poison Jab, and shoot an Overdrive at Glaceon. Ludicolo, keep moving buddy and Ice Beam at Leafeon.

The double battle is reaching a climax, with Glaceon shooting an Ice Beam at Luciolo who dances around the attack, and fires a replica in the direction of Leafeon. Leafeon charges into Toxtricity with a green glow to the tail on it's back. As it goes to strike, Toxtricity uses it's Poison Jab to repel the attack, and knock the Pokemon back, into the oncoming Ice Beam. Leafeon freezes solid and lands with a loud thud to the ground. Then all of a sudden, a large electrical charge begins to travel around the small battle field on the top floor of our hotel. The attack hitting both Glaceon and Ludicolo, causing significant damage to both.

Duncan - You need to learn more about double battles! Some attacks will get your Pokemon too.

Archie - Yeah.. *scratching my head* But an all out attack is still in play. Poison Jab, and Giga Drain on Glaceon you two!

Both attacks come together and strike the Eeveelution. Glaceon still standing, but swaying side to side.

Naomi - Alright, I'm calling it. No reason Glaceon should be knocked out right now.

Duncan - UGHHHHH. I can't get these two to work together. You'd figure two Pokemon that hatched out of the same egg would work together better than they are.

Archie - You said they're even like this in solo battles? They just seem to know the other one is around?

Duncan - Yeah man.. I don't know what to do about it. I might have to send one of them to your mom's farm if that's okay, Archie.

Archie - I'm sure she wouldn't mind that!

Naomi - That's sad.. I know you don't want to do that.

Duncan - No, I don't. My favorite Pokémon since I was a kid is Leafeon, so I know it would be Glaceon that would go. And that stinks because I would want it to be well trained. But if I can't figure something out here, then I will have to. Both Pokémon are suffering just being together.

Archie - Well, that stinks man. But if you want to transfer Glaceon to my mom, we can go after the Banquet and transfer! I know we aren't supposed to have Pokemon there, but if we just sneak in this Pokeball, nobody will say anything.

Duncan - Sneaking it in?! No way am I being caught with that!

Archie - Don't be such a baby, I'll sneak it in for you. Then afterwards we'll go and transfer. If I'm there with you she'll do it for free.

Duncan - *laughing* Thanks, man!

Noah - Are you two still up here?! We only have about 3 hours til the Banquet. We still have to go find clothes to wear. I know for a fact that I forgot to pack something for tonight.

Archie - Oh, no worries about that. Harmony hooked us up!

Naomi - She what?!

Archie - Yeah, she hooked us up!

Duncan - And she made my brother buy me a suit for the night, so I'm all good as well.

Archie - We'll look amazing today, no worries at all. Y'all wanna go and see?

Naomi - Absolutely!

Duncan and I high five on the previous battle and go downstairs to my room.

Noah - I've literally been in here this whole time. Are you losing it?

Archie - Not yet! I hid them so you wouldn't see. I'm just glad you didn't try to nap in my bed.

I pull back the covers to unveil two suits. One an all black suit with a white tie with a note that says "Noah Barlowe" The other an all black suit with a red tie with a note that says "Archer Ames" and under both of those, is a longer red dress with black accents along the seams.

Naomi - Oh my. That's gorgeous. I'm going to get to wear this tonight?! *Smiling huge and picking it up next to her* I'm going to look GOOOOOD tonight.

Noah - *picking up my tie* Your cousin may be the best wingman you've ever had, dude. *winking at me*

Archie - *blushing* I think this is her reward to us for winning today.

We all turn to the door as we hear a loud knock on the door.

Duncan - Who is it?

Savannah - It's me! Is Naomi with you guys?

Naomi - *opening the door revealing Savannah in a silk robe* Yes I am!

Savannah - Hey girl! So my sister actually sent me over here, and she sent one of her Gym Attendees to do your hair and makeup today if you'd like! She's only doing it for Autumn, Zoey, you and me!

Naomi - Ohh... I don't know..

Savannah - *grabbing her hand* Don't worry. Autumn turned it down, so it's just Zoey and I in the room.

Naomi - *nervously looking back at us* You know what?! I'm in! I'll shower and change and head that way.

Savannah - Sounds good! We're right down the hall in room 222.

Naomi - *Thanking her, and running to the bathroom to shower.* Sorry guys, I'll meet you there! *slamming bathroom door*

Noah - *wide eyed, and stuttering* T-thank you, S-savannah. *he takes a deep breath to regain composure* As you can tell, my sister is very excited about this.

Savannah - I was happy to deliver the news! I expect to see you tonight as well.

Noah - *blushing and nervous again* Y-y-yeah..

Archie - *patting his back* He'll be there, I'll make sure he says hi.

Savannah - *laughing* I'll be sure to look out for it. See you boys later! *waving and walking away*

Noah - *getting up to shut the door, and staring at me* Bro. I might be in love.

Archie - *laughing* Dance with her tonight!

Duncan - Yeah man, it's your time to wow her now!

Noah - Thank Arceus for Harmony giving us these suits. HARMONY HURRY UP, I'VE GOT A REASON TO SHOWER NOW.

Duncan - *laughing* I see you fell for the Seaul family!

Noah - I sure have! She's freaking perfect dude.

Archie - I've never seen you like this man!

Noah - Me neither. It's a crazy feeling. Is this what you feel around Naomi?! That's weird to even think you feel like this towards that beast. *geturing to the bathroom*

The shower turns off, and after a few minutes Naomi steps out with her night clothes on and her hair up in a towel.

Noah - You're wearing that?!

Naomi - *rolling eyes* I can't wear the dress to get ready you dummy. That'll just be a surprise for later on. *glancing at me with a come get me look*

Archie - *blushing* Well, I can't wait to see! I'm sure you'll be the most beautiful one there tonight.

Noah - Eww. She's basically me with long hair you sick freak. But Nayyyyy. When you're over there, can you gauge Savannah on how she thinks of me?!

Naomi - You think SHE likes YOU?! She may be the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. And you stink.

Noah - Not after I shower for the next 45 minutes. *looking at me and Duncan* Sorry guys, you won't have much time to get ready.

Archie - *face turning red from laughing so much* She's going to love you! We'll make sure of it!

Naomi - Alright. See you guys in a bit. *leaning in to kiss me on the cheek* You better focus on cleaning yourself too. I'm going to look freaking hot tonight.

Archie - Oh, I'm going to look good too. No need to worry, sweet cheeks! Go have fun, I'll see you tonight.

Duncan - Don't forget, we can't take our Pokémon in, so let's just leave them here!

Archie - I hate that they can't come and have fun too.. But you're right.

Noah - It'll be fine! We'll make tonight fun without Pokémon.

Duncan - *handing me Glaceon's ball* We'll be by the Pokecenter though, so if you don't mind sneaking this in, we'll do that afterwards.

Archie - I've got you man! *grabbing the ball*

After a few hours of getting ready, Duncan, Noah and I jump in our ride, and head over to the banquet hall a few miles away. Duncan is dressed up in a nice white suit with a black tie. His black shaggy hair is cleaned up nice, and using a gel he was able to style his hair out of his eyes. He's the taller of us, and is walking with a confidence I've never seen out of him. Noah is dressed up, and flips from confident to nervous with every passing sentence. And I took extra care to get ready, using Duncan's gel to style my hair up like normal, just with gel so it shouldn't fall throughout the night. We drive through downtown Capital City, with street lights dancing past us as we pass them, and a couple of different light shows are going on in a few bars and other restaurants, giving us a show as we roll by. Eventually we get to the entrance to the banquet hall, we get out of the car, thank the drive and walk up to the front doors. We enter and are amazed at the size of room we're in. The ceilings are 30 feet high, with the biggest chandelier I've ever seen hanging in the center, with a smaller but still no less amazing chandelier sitting in each corner of the room. We walk up to the door to enter the main hall and are stopped by Harry and Christopher Orville.

Harry - Good evening, gentlemen! It's nice to see you dressed up so nice. I'm not sure if you've had the chance to meet, but this is Sir Christopher Orville.

"Hello, men. It's a pleasure to officially meet you all." Christopher says in a proper voice.

Archie - The pleasure is ours. *reaching out for his hand* You've always been one of my favorite Gym Leader's here. I've had your trainer card on a case on my wall for years now. You were my favorite Leader to watch growing up!

Christopher - *smiling* Well that's good to hear. I'm sure after your battling today, you'll have some kid putting your trainer card on his wall in the future.

Duncan - *reaching for his hand next* It's nice to see you again, Sir Christopher.

Christopher - It's been a while, Mr. Duncan! I see your brother has been training you hard as well. That's good to see! And you're Noah Barlowe, correct?

Noah - Yes sir! I'm here to hopefully restore the Barlowe name!

Christopher - I'm sure it'll be a little tough, but with hard work I believe you can have it done by the end of the Run!

Noah - *with a big appreciative smile* Thank you, sir.

Harry - Alright guys, all I will need from you is your Pokeballs! Everybody will give their Pokemon before entry. 3 Badge Runs ago, we had a battle breakout, and it cost us a lot of money. So to avoid that, we take the Pokemon now. But no need to worry, I'll put your team in a box, and in that system. When you come by at the end of the night, just put your finger in the slot, and it'll give you your box of Pokémon. Sorry about this, it's just a precaution.

Christopher - Us Leaders will have our Pokémon on us, so no need to worry.

Duncan - We actually left our Pokémon back at the hotel! Gabe warned me about that, so I left them there just in case I'd get in trouble for bringing them.

Archie - *Lifting my jacket, revealing my belt where I usually keep my balls.* Yeah, Harmony told us too, so they're all in a lockbox in our room. *hiding Glaceon's ball in my inside jacket pocket*

Harry - Goodness I love when Runners are prepped on everything. Great to hear, and you guys have fun! You'll find your table arrangement in there. You guys are closest to the front.

We enter, to an even larger room with even more intricate designs and art everywhere. There's a huge ice sculpture in the middle of the Badge Run logo. It's the words Badge Run, with all 13 badges encircling the logo. And since this is the 31st Badge Run, the B has the right side in a gold font, and the left side of the R in a gold font, highlighting the 31. There are tables all throughout. Circle tables, eight chairs a piece with plates and glassware in front of each seat. We go towards the front of the room, and find our chairs. The names at this table are in order; Autumn Hordull, David Tyler, Savannah Seaul, Zoey Orville, Noah Barlowe, Duncan Odom, Archie Ames, Naomi Barlowe.

Duncan - They put us all together.

Archie - I'm sure it'll be fine. I do think we need to make one little adjustment to all of this.

Duncan - What's that?

Archie - Just going to switch this around *switching Zoey and Savannah's name card*

Noah - So I sit by her?! *grabbing my face* Dude, you're the best. Thank you.

David Tyler - *walking from behind us* I should've known they'd put us all together.

Duncan - What do you say, we just let it all go for tonight though? Let's have a good time.

David - I'll do that. *shaking our hands* Are none of the girls here?

Noah - Not yet. I haven't seen any of them.

David - Yeah, I know Savannah and Zoey had Serena's attendees come and do their makeup and stuff.

Noah - Yeah, Savannah came to our room earlier and grabbed Naomi to join them.

Duncan - What about Autumn? Where's she?

David - She went out into the forest when we got back to the hotel. She was saying how she needed to train more and that she wasn't happy with how today went.

Archie - Will she be here?

David - I'm not sure. If her dad wasn't here I'd say no. But with him being here, I think she'll make an appearance.

Noah - Well, I'm sure the princess will show up then. So... This food... Can I just go grab some whenever?!

Duncan - *chuckling* No, man. We have to wait for permission to eat.

Noah - WAIT FOR PERMISSION? What's the point of that. I haven't eaten hardly all day waiting on this!

David - *cracking a smile* Yeah, I'm pretty hungry too. How about a friendly little competition then, Barlowe?

Noah - What's that?

David - *sneaking to the table of food 8 feet from our table. Tossing Noah 2 rolls* Whoever sneaks the most food, wins.

Noah - *taking half of the roll in one bite* Oh, you're on Ocean boy.

David - *laughing* Let's do it then!

We all laugh around, as the two destroy their rolls. We're here a little early, so the place is filling up, and there's very little supervision on what's going on. The two have field day grabbing rolls, David grabs a plate of mashed potatoes, and Noah tries to one up him by grabbing a chicken leg.

Autumn - What on Earth are you guys doing?

Noah - Eating. *offering the chicken leg to Autumn*

Autumn - *shaking her head in disgust* I'm good.

Noah - Come on, Autumn! You deserve it. *revealing his plate* We also have rolls and beans and potatoes right now.

Autumn - *flashing the first smile any of us has seen on her face* You guys are going to get kicked out before this even begins.

David - That's only if we get caught! We can just play stupid too and act like we didnt know that was a rule.

Autumn - *pointing to Gabe laughing and shaking his head in a corner* I think you've already been caught.

Noah - *covering the plate with a napkin* Oooops. *hitting my arm* Thanks for the freaking lookout dude.

All of us, including Autumn laugh, and sit down. We have a few other Runners come up to meet us and introduce themselves. Jacob Martinez says hi, his older sister and brother are Gym Leaders, so I'm sure he'll be in this for a while. He talks to all of us, and seems to be the closest person to Autumn. She's engaged in their conversation, smiling acting friendly for once.

Noah - *whispering to me* The banquet does things to people I guess.

Archie - And it's just getting started. *pointing at the door, revealing Savannah Seaul walking in*

Noah - You were my lookout all along.

Savannah walks in, no Zoey or Naomi with her, just her catching all of the looks from most of the guys in the banquet hall. She's wearing a long green dress with one one shoulder fully exposed. She has on matching green heels to match.

Noah - *immediately blushing* Archie. That girl is far too beautiful for me to talk with. *sniffing his arm pits* Do I stink? I think I stink.

David - *squirting some of his cologne from his pocket onto Noah's shirt collar* Nah man, you smell great!

Noah - Thanks dude! Archie, give me confidence.

Archie - Pull her chair out for her when she gets close, and just mention how she looks! You'll do great man. You've already won one competition tonight. Keep that energy alive!

Noah - Right.

Savannah - *Doing a little trot to get to us faster* Harry told me at the front that we'd be sitting with you all!

Noah - *standing up and pulling her chair out* Y-yeah, and you get lucky enough to sit next to me! You look way better than okay.

Savannah - *confused but laughing* Way better than okay?!

Archie - *putting a hand over my mouth to stop from laughing* Smooth.

Noah - *glaring at me, then back at Savannah* You look beautiful.

Savannah - *smiling* Thank you, Noah. You look really well yourself. *Picking up his tie* Did you spy on me?! Your tie matches my dress almost perfectly.

Noah - No! Harmony picked this out for me. I wouldn't even know how to pick out a suit.

Savannah - Well, it looks great.

Noah - How was the afternoon with Naomi?

Savannah - She was amazing. A little nervous at first, but when she started to open up, she was a lot of fun! She loves you two. *gesturing at Noah and myself* Especially you. *pointing at me*

Noah - Yeah. Can you imagine being their third wheel for years?

Savannah - Sounds like you had fun then! Autumn, I hate you couldn't join us for makeup and stuff today!

Autumn - Yeah.. Sorry. I would've come, but felt like I should be training instead.

Savannah - You're all good, girl. No biggie! Hopefully your training went well.

Autumn - I learned a lot!

We hear the door open again, this time revealing Zoey Orville accompanied by her father. She walks in, her dress with a creative design of black and purple. She's getting stopped every other step by somebody wanting to greet her, or shake her hand, or hug her. This is her backyard, so she's a bit of a local celebrity. It's like the cheers we were all seeing earlier, except now it's more and just for one person. They eventually make their way to our table, her dad kisses her hand, and pulls the chair out for her.

Christopher - Sorry to interrupt you guys. I am about to begin the festivities, and wanted to escort my daughter.

Zoey - Hey everybody! Sorry it took so long, Naomi and I were being interviewed outside.

Savannah - I missed an interview?! UGHHHH. But, ahhhh you look so beautiful!

Zoey - *blushing and waving* Oh, stop! Your sister is a freaking miracle worker. I don't think I've ever looked this good.

Duncan - *nudging me* Boy y'all have Archie anxious over here now. He can't take his eyes off of the entrance now.

Archie - *laughing and blushing* I'm so nervous right now dude. Why?!

Savannah - Because you know she's about to come through that door and steal the show!

Zoey - Yeah, she looks GORGEOUS. They were talking with her, so I don't think she'll be too long.

Walking in our direction, is Harmony. She's wearing a long blue dress, with one shoulder covered up.

Harmony - You guys all look great this evening!

Archie - You actually dressed up!?

Harmony - Of course I did, dummy. I have to speak tonight. Also, Archie and Autumn, could you come with me?! There's a special guest that I'd like for you two to meet!

Archie - Sounds like a plan. *standing up and looking at the table* Guys, I'll see you in a bit!

Autumn - Both of us?!

Harmony - Yes ma'am! It's important.

Harry - *walking up nervously* Of the highest imporance actually. I'll escort you over, sweet heart!

Autumn - Thank you, daddy!

Harmony - *stopping as we're walking away to fix my tie* You two are getting an amazing sponsor, that even I'M jealous of! Naomi's already gotten two tonight.

Archie - For real?!

Harmony - Yeah, your girlfriend is KILLING IT. She looks amazing. Serena's salon, and a Leader from Paldea named Tulip is sponsoring her as well. All she has to do is a few makeup commercials!

Archie - Wow, good for her!

Harmony - Yes sir! And I've got a request from none other than Ash Ketchum for YOU and Autumn to be his sponsees.

Archie - World Champion, Ash?!

Harmony - Yep! Luckily he has a lot of respect for my mom. He heard her nephew was battling, so he watched your battle, and wanted to sponsor you guys!

Archie - Harmony! That's amazing!

Harmony - And he's about to enter.

As she says it, the door opens with a taller figure walking through. The entire room fades from the echoes of multiple conversations into a room so quiet you could hear the sound of people sitting down in awe. Harry walks over, shaking his hand and talking to Ash. Ash has a huge smile on his face. He's in a suit, his tie red with a green design on it, similar to his Kanto hat, with his Pikachu proudly on his shoulder. The two walk to the front stage, Autumn falling off with Harmony and I as her dad and Ash walk past. Ash glancing at us, flashing a smile and a nod.

Autumn - I'll tell you what, Ames. I promise to keep training and you won't beat me again. But I'm glad to have a worthy rival here.

Archie - *reaching out my hand* I'm glad to call you a rival, Hordull.

Autumn - *reluctantly taking my hand* Dad told me he only watched because he heard you were battling. So I owe this one to you. And regarding the battle. You have my respect. I'm sorry I didn't perform to my highest level.

Harmony - You battled hard! Nothing at all to be ashamed of. Losing is completely normal.

Autumn - Then next time, it's his turn to lose. *flashing a confident smile*

Harry - *over the speakers* Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honor to proudly introduce. World Champion, Ash Ketchum and his Pikachu.

Ash steps forward, raises his hand and Pikachu does an acrobatic jump off of his arm as if showing off. The banquet hall is roaring and celebrating. Most people here grew up respecting Ash, and watching all of his previous battles online. The cheering and excitement reach it's Apex, when all of a sudden it's interrupted by the screech of the front doors opening up. Stepping through the door is the most beautiful girl I've ever seen. She walks out, her red hair hanging down her back, but in curly designs all throughout. Her dress fitting her perfectly, with the black accents shimmering from reflecting the light. The room is in complete silence, broken up by Savannah whistling at Naomi to ease the tention she must be feeling. Naomi, from all of the people staring at her flashes a nervous smile and gives the room a wave, and begins walking to her seat. I see her eyes scanning for me with a half smile on her face, and then meetin eyes with her, and her smile evolving into a full on toothy grin from excitement. I can't take my eyes off of her, and without even thinking, I walk over and meet her at the table to pull her seat out, and kiss her hand.

Archie - You look incredible.

Naomi - *blushing* Told you I'd look hot.

Archie - Hot's an understatement. *kissing her hand again and running back to Harmony catching a few laughs from the banquet hall*

Harmony - You just interrupted Ash Ketchum's introduction to kiss your girlfriend. She better feel special.

Archie - I did NOT think of that. Oh no.

Harmony - *gesturing to Ash* He seems to think it's funny!

Harry - Ahhh, young love! Again, I proudly introduce, Ash Ketchum!

"Thank you, Harry! It's a pleasure to be here with you all today." Ash Ketchum exclaims. "Pika Pi!" Pikachu shouts.

Ash - Hello, Xelandria! It's an absolute pleasure to be here, to help kickoff the 31st Badge Run. A few weeks ago, I was in Johto, checking in with some old friends, and I was told by the lovely Clair, that her nephew would be beginning his journey with the Badge Run, and he had a special Pokemon that I should see. Luckily for me, I got to watch a battle of two very advanced beginner trainers. It's so normal to see trainers go all out and fight for a victory. But it's so rare to see two trainers have such a deep bond with their Pokemon at such a young age. Archie Ames, and Autumn Hordull. Will you please join us on stage?

Autumn and I look at each other, and escorted by Harmony we take our places on stage 2 feet away from every young trainer's Pokemon idol. Ash walks forward and gives Autumn a hug, and shakes my hand, pulling me in for a half hug as well.

Ash - For the first ever time, I'd like to officially announce that I will sponsor these two young trainers. As most of you are aware, I started my business making Trainer cards and cards for their Pokemon many years ago. These two will now officially get their own Trainer cards produced, and will be compensated for their namesake. The first of our Xelandria 31st Badge Run card set will be a still picture from their battle earlier today.

Behind Ash, rotom screens expand to show the moment Absol finally Mega Evolved, standing across the battle field from Pheromosa. It's taken from mid field, catching Absol and I on the left, and Autumn and Pheromosa on the right. Then it scrolls to Autumn's trainer card, which is a picture of her playing with her Venasaur. Then it scrolls to my trainer card, and it's a picture of my Pokemon and I dancing around a campfire together. I look at Harmony, and she's smiling big, so I know she's the one who gave that to him to use.

Ash - There's plenty more to come, and I hope this is motivation for current and future trainers to give every battle their all. I was on a long journey, and know how trying and painful it can be from time to time. But I promise you, the harder you train and the closer you get with your Pokemon make everything worth it.

Harry - Thank you, Ash! I know this was an unplanned event for you. But the Xelandria Region appreciates you coming!

Ash - Not a problem at all. To all trainers today, I really enjoyed your battles. And to Autumn and Archie, thank you for reigniting my love for Pokemon battling. I can't wait to see more from you!

Ash waved to the crowd, and walked Autumn and I back to our seats, saying hi to all of the people at the table. Ash was shaking hands, and Pikachu was trying to get into Noah's food stash on the table.

Ash - And you must be Archie's girlfriend right?!

Naomi - Y-Yes sir.

Ash - Clair told me about you and your brother as well!

Noah - She mentioned me to YOU?!

Ash - *laughing* Sure did, you're the one she's hoping to be a Dragon type trainer correct?

Noah - Yes sir! That's exactly what I'm trying to do!

Ash - Dragons are a tough one, but they'll sure pay off for you if you take the time to train them properly. But if she thinks high of you, I'd be willing to bet on you!

Noah - Thank you, Mr. Ash.

Ash - Mr. Ash?! Please don't do that, just Ash is fine!

Naomi - *rubbing my back* So when will I be able to get one of those trainer cards?!

Ash - I'll have them sent to Clair's sister's farm as soon as they're produced. Should be roughly 2-3 months or so. We're looking for more trainers to sponsor before then. And this whole table is who we have in mind. So go out, and earn it!

Noah - Oh yes sir, absolutely. You'll know all about Turtonator and I. We'll make you proud.

Ash - *patting his back* I can't wait to see it.

Harry - Sorry to interrupt, but we have to get you back to the airport, Ash.

Ash - Sounds good, Harry! Guys, thank you for your time, and I hope to see plenty more of you.

We all say bye to Ash, and pet Pikachu, all shocked to say we touched the most powerful Pikachu of all time. Autumn hugs her dad goodbye, and Harmony comes over and tells us that she's going to head back to Acoustica to prepare for the Badge Run to start tomorrow.

Noah - Hey, uhhh Mr. Harry?

Harry - *hurriedly* Yes?

Noah - I don't want to bother you. But can we eat now?!

Harry - OH! *laughing and running to the microphone* I forgot with all of the excitement, but feel free to help yourself to the food! I'll be back in about 10 minutes.

Noah - *turning to Savannah* I haven't eaten all day. I'm really sorry for what you're about to witness.

Savannah - *chuckling* It's fine. I'm hungry too, so I won't say anything if you won't.

Naomi - *leaning into my ear* She thinks he's cute.

Archie - *whispering back* Well you won't believe this, but he thinks the same for her.

Naomi - Awwww. They grow up so fast!

Archie - I'm happy for him! He's been extra funny today since talking with her.

Noah - Are you two knuckle heads talking about me?!

Naomi - Who calls people knuckle heads anymore?!

Noah - I do. You knuckle head. *gets up to go grab a plate of food*

Savannah - *laughing* He's funny!

Naomi - Yeah, he has his moments.

We're all laughing amongst ourselves, even Autumn for once. Noah's filling up two plates now, one for himself and one for Savannah. Savannah, Naomi and I are talking to each other, with Duncan off to the side talking with his brother, and Zoey, David and Autumn talking. When all of a sudden BOOM, BOOM, BOOM, BOOM. 3 explosions happen up ahead all look up to see 3 Mega Salamance's enter through the holes, each followed by a legendary bird; Moltres, Zapdos, and Articuno in order. Next thing we know, we see a figure on each Salamance, and each throws two Pokeballs. Now there's 3 Ceruledges and 3 Aramarouge with their weapons at the ready. In the middle of the 3 holes comes another explosion. BOOM. Through this hole comes a Roaring Moon, followed by a Black Lugia with a figure on that who throws 3 Pokeballs as well, introducing Regirock, Regice, and Registeel.

Gabe - *stepping forward with Christopher Orville* Don't worry guys, We'll slow them down.

"What on Earth could you do to stop this? You have 7 Legendaries, 3 Megas, and 6 of our stronger Pokemon sitting in front of you. We don't fight fair." The figure on top of the Black Lugia says while jumping to the ground. Lugia throws a gust of wind at the ground that catches the big man and let's him lightly float until his feet are on the ground.

Christopher - Who are you?

The man stands up, dusts a few specks of debris off of his pants leg, straightens the sleeves on his suit, fixes his tie, and runs his hands up his face into his red hair to get it out of his face.

"Some call me the most dangerous poacher of all time. Some call me the Wrath of the Pokemon world. But you, you can call me Barlowe, Nathan Barlowe."

Christopher - You have no business here, Barlowe. I'm going to ask you to leave.

Barlowe - Would I burst through the ceiling if I could just be asked to leave?! And as it so happens, Orville. I do have business being here.

Christopher - Oh yeah? *grabbing two Pokeballs* And what's that?

Barlowe - Well, Sir Knight, picture this. I'm at the office, sitting around and scouting around for any good Pokemon, and then I see reports of this black Absol being hatched in Preya. And I mean, look at my newest addition *gesturing to Lugia.* XD001 they call this! I figure, it's a good time to have my guys camp around Preya and catch a young trainer by surprise. I send my guys up to scope out the area, and there's no sign of a black Absol. With no leads, we call it after 2-3 months, assuming they went into hiding, or it was sold or stolen already. It's been written off in my head for MONTHS. Then today, I'm watching the opening ceremonies looking for strong young trainers or Pokemon, and lucky damn me, there it is. It's just sitting out saying "Come and get me" and when I think that I can't get more interested, I see the other challengers and realize that my kids are here. I figured if they're going to get into training, that I'd come offer a job in person. *gesturing in Noah's direction, and then into Naomi's.* So, nobody needs to get hurt, I just want to see my kids.

Gabe - *Throwing out his Gengar* I don't think you should be here.

Barlowe - Now, now. There's no reason for there to be *looking up at the ceiling* anymore destruction here today. Recall your Pokemon, and I'll forgive you.

Gabe - *tightening his jaw* Gengar, Mega Evolve. *And with a bright flash, Gengar becomes Mega Gengar.

Christopher - *throwing out his Empoleon and Serperior* Let's take this guy down, old friends.

Barlowe - What's the point of that? *sighs and rubs his face* It's important to remember when you look back at this that I gave you a chance.

Barlowe raises his left hand and snaps his fingers together, and in the blink of an eye all three Mega Salamance and Roaring Moon swoop in and let out a flurry of attacks. Draco Meteor from one, Dark Pulse from another, Dual Wingbeat from another, and Flamethrower from another. Regice shoots an Ice Beam, Regirock throws a Rock Slide, and Registeel fires out a Flash Cannon. The Ceruledge and Armarouge step up and charge their weapons, but hold off on any attacks at the moment. And as fast as the attacks were summoned, Gabe's strongest pokemon reverts to it's previous form and falls to the ground. And as fast as they came out of their ball, Empoleon and Serperior faint and hit the ground as well.

Barlowe - You see? There's no reason for this to get ugly. *glancing at the other Gym Leader's in the banquet hall* NOW. *walking over to Noah, who's still standing in fear by the food* Hey son, it's been a minute.

He stops, waiting for Noah to speak, but nothing comes out. Noah just looks at the ground instead of at his father.

Barlowe - I get it. I'm a bad guy, you're trying your best to be good. But, I'm here to make up for lost time. I purposely gave your mother her free space. I've always wanted to come by Preya and see you. Then I hear about the boy hatching the black Absol. *glancing in my direction* Archie Ames? Wanna make sure I have that right.

Archie - *confidently* That's it.

Naomi - *standing up, and putting her arm on my back in a comforting fashion.* You have no right to be here. Noah and I are here to try to fix our family name.

Barlowe - FIX our name?! Sweetie. I'm famous world wide. There's no need to fix anything.

Naomi - Fix OUR name. Not YOUR name. We may be your kids, but you aren't our dad. You have no right to just swoop in here to try and see us.

Barlowe - *shrugging* . So, oFigured I'd at least try it. Basing off of your body language there, I take it *pointing at me and her* this is a thing? Crazy way to meet your girlfriend's dad isn't it?

Naomi - Leave him out of this. *walking up to her dad and brother* This is between the 3 of us, and I for sure don't want you here. *slapping his face*

As she slaps his face, one of the Salamance turns around, and begins moving towards Naomi with a battle ready look in it's eyes. I start to feel a panic rise in me, I turn to look around the table and everybody's glued to the scene shaping in front of us. It's as if time is moving slow, and I don't know what to do. I go to reach for a Pokeball and remember that I left all of mine back at our hotel. But that's when I feel a bulge in my jacket pocket, and remember that I have Duncan's Glaceon on me. Without hesitation, I grab the Pokeball, throw it forward and desparately call out for Glaceon to use Ice Beam on the oncoming Salamance.

With a flash, Glaceon is now flying toward the Barlowe trio and the attacking Salamance, firing a mesmerizing stream of Ice Beam, causing the Salamance to crash into the ground, sliding 2 feet away from Barlowe.

Archie - Again.

Glaceon fires another one at the big Dragon Pokemon trying to get up off of the ground, and hits in the same spot, causing it to lose it's Mega Evolution, and lie still on the ground, knocked out. The next second all of the Armarouge, Ceruledge, legendary birds, and other dragons turn their attention to Glaceon.

Barlowe - *angrily* STOP.

Every single one of the Pokemon that came in with their group comes to a halt, awaiting the next command from their leader.

Barlowe - You have spunk, Archie. Had this action been caused by ANYTHING other than the fact you were trying to save my daughter, I'd have you and your Pokemon's life. *turning to Naomi* Honey, I approve.

Naomi - *looking wide eyed at me for my previous actions.* What do you really want here?

Barlowe - *smiling big* It's extremely simple. I want one of you to come with me. OR. I'll come after that Absol.

Naomi - *tearing up, looking at me and not her dad* Please. Anything else.

Barlowe - No. I want to build a relationship with my kids. But, I'll take just one if I'm able to. If not, I won't stop hunting you guys until that Absol and every single Pokemon you own becomes mine. I have crews all over the world. Not just Xelandria. You will NEVER escape me.

Noah - *finally looking up with tears in his eyes* I'll go.

Archie - No! We can figure something out.

Barlowe - What are you going to figure out? I'll burn down your farm. I'll destroy your cousin's city. I'll steamroll all of Xelandria looking for you.

Noah - *giving me an I'm sorry look* I'll go with you, dad. But please spare Archie.

Naomi - *CRYING* NO! THIS IS STUPID NOAH. Please don't.

Noah - *tears rolling down* I wouldn't have stood a chance to win the Run anyways.. I'm the weakest of our group. It's okay guys.

Archie - SO WE'LL TRAIN! WE CAN ALWAYS GET STRONGER. THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE US DOING THIS TOGETHER.

Noah - And if I don't go, then we'll be just running and hiding together. Go. I promise to keep up with the Run.

Barlowe - *laughing walking over to Noah putting his hands on his shoulders* Glad to see you have common sense, son. This life is a lot more fun, I promise.

Noah - *looking up at him* Can you promise to let them be?

Barlowe - I'll warn every other gang not to go after them as well. Consider that Black Absol officially protected by the Barlowe Bandits.

Noah - Okay. I'll go.

Barlowe - *going over to the trainer who jumped off of the back of the Salamance that went down and snatching an Ultra Ball away from her* Here son. *handing the Ultra Ball to Noah* Your first gift as a Lieutenant. A Salamance, it's clearly not being trained to it's fullest potential in other hands. I'll make you so strong that nobody in this room will be able to beat you let alone dare to challenge you. Not even your sister or her boyfriend.

Naomi - We'll get you back, Noah. I promise.

Archie - I swear we will.

Noah - *wiping tears away and coming in for a hug and whispering* I won't let him come after you guys, I promise. I'm sorry we can't journey together. Please go out and do well for me. I love you guys.

Naomi - You please be careful. *squeezing Noah tight*

Archie - I love you too, man. I promise we'll come for you.

Noah - *forcing a smile* I know you will.

Barlowe - Noah. Let's ride. It was nice seeing you again, daughter. I'm glad to see that you have spunk. Archie, *putting his hand on my shoulder* I'm almost positive we'll meet again. Get nice and powerful for me.

With that, all of the Pokemon begun to flap their wings, Barlowe and Noah got on Lugia's back, the other trainers mounted their Salamance, with the one trainer who's Salamance lost jumpin on another Salamance back to get out of the now crowded banquet hall. Before they're allowed to leave, Harry bursts through the front doors, lets out his Roaring Moon and Tyranitar.

Harry - Stop, there!

Barlowe - Too late, Champ. I've got what I came for. Nice bunch of Runners for this one.

Harry - *noticing Noah* Put him down! You can't just kidnap our Runners.

Barlowe - I'm taking MY son. We're out of here.

Barlowe and his group exit the banquet hall, Noah looking sadly down at Naomi and I as he flies further and further away, slowly disappearing into the night sky. Naomi breaks down and crumbles to the floor, with Harry and Gabe running over to comfort us.

Harry - It'll be okay, we'll find a way to get him back.

Naomi - We can't.

Gabe - We'll do everything we possibly can to get him, I promise.

Naomi - *shouting* Did you not see how strong he is?! He took out 3 of the strongest Gym Leader Pokemon in all of Xelandria in the blink of an eye.

Harry - Gabe, evacuate teh building. Make sure nobody is hurt. I'll call the officers.

Gabe - Yes sir. Duncan, can you help Archie and Naomi out?

Duncan - Absolutely. *Kneeling down beside me* I'm so sorry man. I'll help out however I can.

Naomi - I really don't know what we can do.. We can't beat him.

Duncan - We'll figure something else out then.

Naomi - LIKE WHAT?! Do we attack the guy who just came in with an arsenal of Legendary Pokemon?! Do we ambush him?!

Archie - We turn this into something else. He doesn't play by the rules. We shouldn't either.

Naomi - He will destroy us in battle Archie. YOU can't beat him. Harmony can't beat him.

Archie - So let's get stronger.

Naomi - THERE'S NO GETTING STRONGER FOR THAT.

Archie - *looking at Duncan wanting advice* I will get Noah back. It won't be now. But we'll have him back, I promise.

Naomi - *realizing she's taking her anger out on someone who feels as hurt as her* I'm sorry, Arch.. I just don't know what to do..

Duncan - Well. How about we all go to the hotel, and just talk?! Savannah and them can come over to, just so you two don't feel alone.

Archie - *Looking at Savannah and Zoey* Thank you guys. *Picking Naomi off of the floor* Let's go and figure this out, okay?

The banquet hall empties rather quickly. Our group being the last to leave. Sir Christopher not wanting to kick us out, knowing what we're going through. Eventually he comes to us and offers to escort us back to our hotel. Slowly we all gather ourselves and leave the banquet hall. It's a silent car ride home. The sounds of sirens and other cars passing by are the only sound to break the tension in the atmosphere. We finally after what feels like hours, reach our hotel. We all bundle together in the elevator and go up to our room on the second floor. All of us, even Autumn pile into mine and Noah's room.

Savannah - Guys.. I have been thinking this whole time, and I just don't know what to say.

Zoey - Yeah. I'm so sorry...

Naomi - It's not your fault. It's my stupid dad's fault. *Throwing her shoe off into the dresser on the opposite side of the room. * How dare Noah just give himself up like that. He didn't even think about how that would affect us.

Savannah - *Putting her hand on Naomi's back* I think that's all he thought of. He didn't want you guys to have to just hide and run around the entire time.

Naomi - And the alternative is what?! Us sitting around and wondering if he's okay. Wondering if he's being tortured or if he's being brain washed to join HIS side?!

Where Naomi's shoe hit the dresser, caused one of the doors to open up, revealing Noah's backpack with his Pokeballs on top.

Naomi - *picking up a Pokeball* He doesn't even have his Pokémon. This is ridiculous.

Archie - *Grabbing the rest of his stuff* We'll have to take it to him.

Naomi - Archie. We are not strong enough.

Archie - Not yet we aren't but-

Naomi - BUT NOTHING. *Looking at everybody in the room* I'm going to my room. And I'm taking Noah's stuff.

Archie - Nay. Wait. Please. We can talk about this.

Naomi - *Messing around in the drawer, picking up all of Noah's stuff, and stuffing everything quickly into his bag. * Look. I'm sorry everybody. I'm sorry, Archie. But I just need to be alone. I'll just go, sleep this off, and wake up ready to hear a plan. For now, I just need to be by myself.

Archie - That's fair. If you need anything.

Naomi - *grabbing my hand* I'll come to you. *Kissing my lips* Thank you guys for the fun night before all of this. Good luck to you all.

Just like that, Naomi leaves, shortly after everybody except Duncan is out of the room.

Duncan - Are you okay, dude?

Archie - I don't know, man. I'm so angry, and disappointed I couldn't do anything. I feel like this is all my fault.

Duncan - How? It's not your fault man!

Archie - Yes, it is. It all happened because of MY Pokémon. Now my best friend is gone, and my girlfriend is distraught, and I can't do anything for her.

Duncan - That's not on you. Barlowe is a bad man. He's being greedy and entitled. You got lucky with your Pokémon, but you didn't ask for this. Don't let him get you down. You're an incredibly strong trainer, I'm sure if anybody can figure this out, it's you.

Archie - Thanks, Duncan. And I'm sorry I used Glaceon earlier. I could've gotten your Pokémon really bad hurt, and didn't think before I acted.

Duncan - Yeah about that. Glaceon listened better than she ever has for me. I was going to sell her anyways. Would you mind taking care of her?

Archie - What?

Duncan - Please. I know you'll treat her right. I know you'll give her the proper training she deserves. This way Leafeon and Glaceon will always be able to see one another.

Archie - I mean.. If you want me to, I will absolutely watch after her!

Duncan - *Shaking my hand* Thank you, Archie.

Archie - Is this just to try and make me feel better?

Duncan - I genuinely mean it, I think you're the best trainer for Glaceon, but I do also hope it cheers you up a bit.

Archie - *Bringing him in for a hug* Thanks, Duncan. This means a lot man.

Duncan and I talk for a few more hours that night. Talking about what we could do for Naomi, or any chance we'd have to save Noah. The eve of the Badge Run, and it's the least important thing on our minds. Eventually we both fall asleep, and I have countless dreams of the night prior. Noah being taken away, not being able to do anything, feeling so helpless and useless. Each dream ending with a sweaty pillow and a jump scare straight out of my sleep. Not being able to sleep, I get up and go to Naomi's room to try and talk.

Knock Knock* "Naomi, are you awake?"

With my next series of knocks, the door creaks open, revealing an empty room with a neatly made bed with a Pokeball and a note in the middle reading:

" Dear Archie,

I know you're going to be upset with me for this, but I couldn't tell you in person, because I know you'd risk yourself to stop me, or come help me. But I'm going to go and try to work towards getting Noah back. I want YOU to focus on the Badge Run. This has always been more your thing than Noah's or mine, so I'd hate for you to give up on your dream for the sake of Noah and me. Please know, leaving you right now is the hardest thing I've ever had to do, and I'm so sorry. When I'm able to get Noah back, if you'll have us, I'll happily come back and be by your side to see all of the amazing things that you will accomplish. I'm sure we will be with each other again soon, and I can't wait for that day, but if I don't save my brother, I won't ever feel whole. I don't want you to forget about me, so I made a little trade behind your back. I noticed your bag when grabbing Noah's stuff and grabbed a Pokeball. I'm going to trade you my Kirlia for your Kirlia. So instead of you having Gallade, and me having Gardevoir like we talked about at those late nights for the past few weeks, let's train each other's Pokemon up. I know you'll take great care of Kirlia and turn her into a strong Gardevoir, and I promise to make this future Gallade as powerful as you wanted him to be. Consider this my promise that I'll be back. Please be careful, Archie, and even though you're a magnet for it, try to stay out of trouble. I love you, so much. - Naomi"