You're not a person who gives up easily?
Finally, the day of Anita's first Gym battle had arrived. The three had spent the night at the city's Pokémon Center. Despite their reassurances, Anita hadn't slept a wink. She was too afraid of failing to be able to sleep.
Of course, Ash and Serena had reassured her until they were exhausted. "It doesn't matter if you win on the first, second, or tenth try, we will always support you, and so will your Pokémon. Don't forget that." they had told her.
It was seven-thirty, and the three had gotten up for breakfast, as had their Pokémon. They were sitting at a table near the window, with sunlight filtering through and beginning to pleasantly warm the room.
Unlike the day before, Anita had only taken a coffee for breakfast. «Are you sure you're just having that?» Ash asked her, while biting into a gigantic cream croissant. «You won't have enough energy for the battle.» he added. "I think this boy has only two brain cells. One thinks about battles and the other about eating." thought Anita, as she watched him devour the croissant in a couple of bites. «Don't worry.» Serena reassured her. «Ash always worries about these things.» Serena tried not to laugh. «In some ways, he reminds me of my grandmother. Hey! You haven't eaten anything! You're pale. Do you eat meat? You seem thinner since the last time...»
Ash turned to her. «Let's not exaggerate! I'm just saying that you need energy to fight. We'll talk about behaving like this in seventy years. If I have grandchildren, of course.»
Ash responded, leaving Serena petrified. «Fine. As you wish, but if I feel sick, it's your fault.» Anita got up and went to get a croissant. The smallest one. It was filled with chocolate. Not her favorite filling, but she would make do. To avoid problems, she would eat it in small bites.
After eating, the three handed their room keys to Nurse Joy, greeted her, and left the Pokémon Center.
Serena, using the Maps app on her Smart Rotom, was ready to guide them to the building.
They had to walk almost a kilometer before reaching it. They found themselves in a square, slightly smaller than the one facing the Pokémon Center but similarly designed.
It was paved with large white marble slabs that reflected the light in a nearly blinding way. The square also had flower beds made of the same material, rich with lush vegetation, a magnet for small Grass and Bug-type Pokémon.
The Gym was a tall, semicylindrical building made of concrete and glass. It was preceded by several concrete columns, designed to resemble ancient buildings.
The lower part of the building was decorated with lighter bricks than the concrete, and the upper part had six arched windows.
The entrance was an extremely tall dark wooden door. It seemed intended to intimidate visitors. Above it was a concrete balcony. At the top of the roof was a sculpture in the shape of a Poké Ball, typical of all Gyms. Ash tried to open the door by pushing it. The most natural thing, given there was no sign inviting him to pull it. «Damn! It won't open!» He complained. «Let's try ringing the doorbell.» Serena suggested. «Yes... right... I didn't see it.» Ash replied. Anita approached the two, and Serena pressed the button.
«Great, it's you!» A familiar voice answered. «I'm opening.» An electric noise confirmed the door's opening. Ash pushed it, allowing the girls to enter.
«Is this a Gym or a restaurant?» The floor was made of fake wood, and there were numerous tables with chairs in the room. Each table was covered with a tablecloth that almost reached the ground. The walls, painted in warm colors, were decorated with various adornments, giving the place a touch of class. On the ceiling, there were several elegant and well-crafted glass and metal chandeliers.
Before they could observe further, they were approached by Carlos. «Hi, Carlos!» They greeted him. «Hi, guys. I assume you're here for Anita's challenge.» he said. «Y-yes. At least I think so.» she replied.
«Good. Follow me, I'll take you to the battlefield. Then, after the battle, regardless of the outcome, it is the Gym's tradition to offer lunch or dinner to the challenger and their companions.» he explained.
«Sounds interesting!» Ash responded. "Is it possible that this guy always thinks about eating?" Anita thought. Meanwhile, the three had reached the battlefield.
As per tradition, the long sides of the field had bleachers for guests to watch the battle. On the left side, there was a device that caught Ash's attention.
It was a sort of box with several cameras inside. More cameras were on the ceiling and walls of the Gym. «What is that box?» He asked.
«It's the automatic electronic refereeing system. Thanks to several cameras positioned strategically around the Gym, it can monitor every single event of the battle, process it, and archive it. Finally, it determines the outcome of the battle. Before the battle, it must be set with the battle parameters.» Carlos explained. Seeing Ash's bewildered expression, he understood he needed to explain it in simpler terms. «Simply put, this device replaces the human referee in battles. You just have to tell it if it's a one-on-one battle, two-on-two, and so on...» Ash's expression changed. «Got it.» he replied.
Meanwhile, Carlos had approached the device. He opened a small door and took out a wireless keyboard, just like a computer keyboard. «Tell me, Anita. Is this your first Gym battle?» He asked. «Yes.» the girl replied. «Do you have one or more Pokémon?» He continued. «T-two.» she answered. «Last question. What was your Starter?» He asked while finishing the form. «O-Oshawott.» she replied. «Very well. The electronic referee is ready. We can start!» Carlos declared. «The Gym battle between Gym Leader Carlos and Challenger Anita is about to begin! It will be a two-on-two battle. The winner is the one who makes the opponent's Pokémon unable to fight! Additionally, only the Challenger is allowed to switch their Pokémon. The first move goes to the Challenger. Let the battle begin!» declared the referee.
«L-let's try. Oshawott! Go!» The girl sent out the Sea Otter Pokémon, fully recovered and ready to fight. As soon as it entered the field, it made a proud gesture.
«Umbreon! It's your turn!» Carlos sent out the Moonlight Pokémon. "Hmm, a Dark-type Pokémon, huh? Maybe a Bug-type attack could be effective. Let's try it." she thought. «Oshawott, use Fury Cutter!» The Sea Otter Pokémon started running towards the opponent, wielding its scalchop. Umbreon stood still, like a statue.
«Dodge and use Shadow Ball!» Carlos ordered. The Pokémon obeyed, moving swiftly and leaving its opponent stunned.
Simultaneously, from Umbreon's mouth, a sphere of dark energy, purple in color, began to form. It seemed to be surrounded by discharges of energy, similar to electricity. Umbreon quickly launched the energy sphere toward the opponent. Anita didn't have much time to think. She had to do like Ash. Improvise. «Defend with Fury Cutter!» she ordered. Oshawott quickly moved its Scalchop, as if to cut through the air, sparking the curiosity of those present.
The rookie Trainer's plan revealed itself as soon as the attack reached the water Pokémon. The energy sphere exploded nonetheless, with less force than expected, but it still pushed the Sea Otter Pokémon back several meters.
«Try Aqua Jet!» Oshawott covered itself in water and turned into a sort of wandering mine within the Gym. It was quite difficult to predict where it would go. «Try to counter it with Quick Attack!» Carlos ordered. Umbreon began to run at high speed, managing to mimic every move of Oshawott.
The two Pokémon collided in the middle of the battlefield, and both were thrown back. Umbreon managed to land nimbly on all fours, while Oshawott landed face-first.
Despite the hard impact, the water Pokémon managed to get up, though with difficulty. «Can you continue?» Anita asked. The Pokémon responded affirmatively. Its body seemed to be glowing. «Very well! Then let's try Water Gun!» Anita ordered. A powerful jet of water generated from the Sea Otter Pokémon's mouth, reaching and hitting the opponent, violently propelling it into the air. "So this is Oshawott's true potential?" thought Anita and Carlos simultaneously. «Let's finish this, Umbreon! Use Swift!» From the Lunar Pokémon's back, yellow stars began to form, which were soon launched at the opponent. «Oshawott, dodge!» Anita ordered. But it was too late. The powerful explosion that threw the Pokémon toward Anita's side had already occurred, and Oshawott lay on the ground, unconscious.
«Oshawott is unable to battle. Umbreon wins!» declared the electronic referee. «Come back, friend, you did great.» Anita recalled Oshawott into its Poké Ball. «Now it's your turn! Lillipup!» The girl threw the Poké Ball of her second Pokémon, the Lillipup she had caught not long ago. «I'm counting on you! Use Tackle!» The Puppy Pokémon began running toward the opponent, who remained impassive, almost as if wanting to be hit. «We've waited long enough, Dark Pulse!» From the mouth of the Lunar Pokémon came a series of rings of dark energy, a dark violet color, almost black. «Dodge, quickly!» Lillipup leapt, managing to avoid being hit by a hair.
«Lillipup, try again with Tackle!» The Pokémon started running again, now closer to the opponent. The ground moved quickly under its paws. When it was close enough, it leapt and hit Umbreon on the head, causing it to retreat slightly. «Throw it with your head!» With the powerful muscles of its neck, Umbreon threw the small Lillipup into the air, without the Puppy Pokémon being able to react.
«And now jump and use Quick Attack!» Umbreon, using the powerful muscles of its hind legs, made a powerful leap. It hit the small Lillipup squarely, causing it to fall back down.
«Lillipup is unable to battle, Umbreon wins. The match victory goes to the Gym Leader!» declared the electronic referee.
«Come back. You did your best. I didn't. I made a mistake in rushing things so much.» Anita commented on her defeat.
«You did your best, you'll do better next time.» Ash encouraged her. «I think it'll just take a bit more training. No matter how strong Umbreon seems, it must have weak points.» he added.
«Do you think? Do you think that…» The girl couldn't finish the sentence. Someone had opened the door, startling her. «So, you pretended to be the Gym Leader again, Carlos?» said a male voice.
Three young people entered through the door. They were dressed almost identically. They wore an outfit similar to that of a waiter. They had on a white shirt, covered by a black vest with three gold buttons. They wore black pants and brown shoes. They also wore a sort of white apron. «And… who are you?» Ash asked.
The three introduced themselves, in the same order they had arrived. «I'm Cilan!» said the boy with green hair. «I'm the Gym Leader of Striaton City!» said the boy with red hair. «I'm Chili, I'm the Gym Leader of Striaton City.» Finally, the boy with blue hair introduced himself. «I'm Cress…» Ash interrupted him. «Let me guess… the Gym Leader of Striaton City?» The boy with blue hair looked disappointed. «Yes… But I would have preferred to say it myself…» Cilan stepped in to save his brother from embarrassment. «It's not important. Anyway, Carlos will find a way to make it up to you.» The boy jumped to attention. «Y-yes. I'll take care of it immediately!» he replied, moving away. Anita's expression changed.
«I know you two.» Cilan introduced them. «You're Ash Ketchum, the World Champion, and Serena Gabena, the winner of numerous Pokémon Contests and finalist of the Kalos Showcase! What an honor!» At that moment, Anita felt like a nobody. Her travel companions had impressive résumés, while she was a novice Trainer. Of the three battles she had fought, five counting the practice matches, she had won one and lost two. The practice matches were interrupted before a real winner could be determined, but she wasn't sure she would have won.
«I imagine you came here to challenge the Gym, right?» the green-haired boy addressed Anita. «Y-yes.» the girl replied.
At that moment, Anita felt a very difficult sensation to explain. It was a mix of nervousness and frustration. She could accept losing to a Gym Leader, but not to someone who was pretending to be one. Ash noticed the change in the girl. «So, if he's not a Gym Leader, then what is he? What's he doing here?» Ash asked. «We could define him as our assistant. He helps in the kitchen, as a waiter, and if necessary, he's also the substitute Gym Leader. So, if one of us can't battle for any reason, we entrust our Pokémon to him, and he battles in place of the absent Gym Leader.» Cilan explained. «I don't think I understood everything.» Ash admitted. «Why are there three Gym Leaders? Isn't one enough?» Ash asked. «Well, you see…» Cilan responded. «This Gym specializes in three types. I imagine you already know that. So, each of us specializes in a certain type. I specialize in Grass type.» he explained. «I'm a Fire type specialist.» Chili added. «And you… are a Water type specialist, right?» Cress sighed. «Of course, you can't hide anything from you!» he replied.
Serena put a hand over her mouth, trying to hide the laugh that was escaping her.
«Well… Carlos could make it up to you by offering you lunch, if that's okay with you. We'll think about the battle later.» Cilan explained. Ash and the girls looked at each other. «Fine by me.» the boy replied.
«And what about Anita?» Serena asked. «Her Pokémon have just finished battling. They'll need to rest before battling again. We can accompany her to the Pokémon Center.» the boy replied.
The three left the Gym, bidding farewell to the three Gym Leaders with a «see you later.»
As soon as they left the Gym, Anita's expression completely changed. She became sad and gloomy. Serena immediately noticed. «Are you okay?» she asked. «No. Yes. I don't know. I don't know if we're ready to face the Gym Leaders. If we lost to an assistant…» she explained.
«Before you give up, you should try. Even if you lost, you surely learned something. That's what matters.» Anita remained silent. "I wonder if things are really as she says. What did I learn in that battle?" she thought.
The three arrived at the Pokémon Center to allow Anita's team to rest. At that time, there weren't many people, so it didn't take long for their turn to come.
After Anita's team was healed, the three returned to the Gym. As they were re-entering, they saw a girl with dark brown hair, wearing a magenta dress and a gray jacket, leaving the Gym. She wore black shoes and matching knee-high socks. She had a dark backpack, similar to a school bag.
She held something tightly in her hands. «It seemed impossible, but we did it!» said the girl in a celebratory tone.
«She managed to win the medal. She must be a very skilled Trainer. Unlike me.» Serena placed a hand on her shoulder. «Don't say that. You'll make it too. I can feel it.» Anita just smiled at her. "I wonder how she can always be so positive." Anita thought.
The three entered the Gym. They passed through the restaurant area, where Cilan and Chili were setting up tables for the upcoming lunch. «Good morning!» The three greeted the Gym Leaders. «Good morning to you!» they replied. «Right now, the battlefield is occupied. Cress is facing a challenger. As soon as the field is free, it's your turn.» Cilan explained.
«By the way, now that I think about it, you haven't introduced yourself. What's your name?» Chili asked her. «Right... My name is Anita White.» the girl introduced herself.
Meanwhile, the three had reached the battlefield. The electronic referee had just finished announcing the rules. As they sat in the stands, they noticed that Cress's challenger was none other than Ivan.
The two had just sent out their Pokémon. Ivan had sent out his Pidove, while Cress sent out a Pokémon Anita was learning about, a Lillipup.
«The first move goes to the challenger!» decreed the electronic referee. «Alright! Pidove, Quick Attack!» The pigeon Pokémon moved swiftly, hitting the opponent and sending it flying. Cress remained calm. «As soon as you can, use Take Down!» The puppy Pokémon landed without major issues and started running as fast as it could, ready to charge the opponent with its whole body. «Fly as high as you can!» ordered Ivan. «Jump as high as you can!» ordered the Gym Leader. Seeing the puppy jump, Ivan smiled. "Terribly predictable." he thought. «Use Air Cutter!» he ordered. Thick blades of air generated from the pigeon Pokémon's wings, hitting the puppy Pokémon squarely and sending it crashing against one of the barriers.
«Lillipup can no longer continue. Pidove wins.» declared the electronic referee. «You did your best, but it's not over yet! I'll go all out with my last Pokémon!» Cress declared as he recalled his Pokémon.
Ivan also recalled his Pidove. «You just did your job.» he commented, irritating the four spectators. Pikachu, in particular, sparked with electricity from its cheeks. «Calm down, buddy. I hope he'll change his attitude someday. Or we'll make him change it.» Ash reassured it.
«Panpour! It's your turn!» Cress sent out a Pokémon resembling a monkey. It had large blue ears, a tuft resembling a water fountain spout, a cream-colored face with a tiny nose and a wide mouth. Its arms were long and pale, widening from the shoulders to the hands, which had only one thumb. Its legs were short, and its body was mostly cream-colored with a small blue part on the chest. Its long tail ended with a blue tuft shaped like three balls.
Anita scanned it with her Pokédex. «Panpour. Watering Pokémon. Water type. Male specimen. It was a forest dweller and has adapted to living near water bodies. It can store water in the tufts on its head. Known moves: Water Gun, Ice Beam, Scald.»
Ivan also sent out his Pokémon. «Pansage! Go!» The boy sent out a Pokémon similar to the one Cress had sent out. Its body was partially green instead of blue and not cream-colored, but slightly darker. The tuft on its head resembled a bush.
Anita scanned it with her Pokédex. «Pansage, Grass Monkey Pokémon. Male specimen. It offers the leaves on its head to tired Pokémon to relieve their stress. Known moves: Bullet Seed and Scratch.»
«The battle can continue!» declared the electronic referee.
«Pansage, use Bullet Seed!» The grass-type monkey shot a series of small seeds from its mouth at high speed, like bullets. «Dodge and then use Ice Beam!» ordered the Gym Leader. "Damn! He's prepared to face Grass-type Pokémon!" thought Ivan. The ice-type attack froze the opponent, putting Ivan in a crisis.
«Let's take advantage of it! Panpour, use Work Up!» The monkey closed its eyes, and its body glowed blue.
«And now, Panpour, use Water Gun!» ordered the Gym Leader. The attack, powered up by Work Up, sent the opponent flying into the air, breaking the ice block as it fell. «Pansage, come on, use Scratch!» The grass-type monkey got up and started running. Sharp claws reflecting the light extended from one of its hands. «Panpour, defend with Water Gun!» A powerful stream of water shot from the water-type Pokémon's mouth, hitting the opponent and sending it flying into the air. «Try to land decently!» Ivan ordered.
But it was too late. The monkey was lying on the ground, defeated. «Pansage can no longer continue. Panpour wins!» declared the electronic referee. Ivan withdrew his defeated Pokémon. «You were truly terrible. I wonder if you deserve to be one of my Pokémon.» he said. Hearing this, Ash had a strong desire to punch Ivan in the face, but for the second time in a few days, he held back.
«Pidove, it's your turn. At least you'll bring some decency to this battle.» the boy sent out his Pokémon. «The battle can resume, the first move goes to the Gym Leader.» declared the electronic referee.
«Panpour, use Ice Beam!» A ray of icy energy, white with a bluish tint, shot from the water-type monkey's mouth. «Pidove! Fly and defend with Air Cutter!» Blades of air generated from the pigeon Pokémon's wings hit the opponent's attack. The attack was powerful enough to hit the Pokémon.
«And now, let's finish with Aerial Ace!» The pigeon Pokémon flew high and then swooped down on the opponent, hitting it squarely and sending it flying into the air. «And now Air Cutter!» ordered. Blades of air generated from the pigeon Pokémon's wings hit the opponent, sending it crashing against the barriers.
«Panpour can no longer fight. Pidove wins. The winner of the battle is the challenger.» declared the electronic referee.
The two Trainers recalled their respective Pokémon into their Poké Balls; then they met at the center of the field.
«As a reward for your victory, here is the Trio Badge!» declared the blue-haired boy solemnly, while giving the boy a double-triangle-shaped badge with diamonds bearing red, green, and blue gems. The boy placed it in his badge case.
«And now, if you want, you can stay for lunch. It's on the house.» The boy shook his head. «I'm not interested in your offer. Never see you again!» The boy walked away.
Ash watched him as he entered the restaurant area. He saw him kneeling in front of a child, who could not have been more than eight years old. He had a Poké Ball in his hand and seemed to be saying something to the child. Something not very clear. After handing it over to the child, he left.
«Did you see? He gave his Pokémon to that child!» Serena commented. «Good for him. Maybe for Team Plasma, all Trainers are like him.» Ash replied.
Anita didn't comment. Neither did Cress, despite being enormously disappointed by the challenger's behavior. If it were up to him, he would never have given him the badge.
A few moments later, the trio of Gym Leaders entered the battle field area. «It'll be lunchtime soon. What do you think about eating before the battle?» Cilan suggested. «Carlos is cooking.» he added.
«Sounds good to me!» Ash was quite enthusiastic. "Is it possible that all he thinks about is eating?" Anita thought. But... in fact, she was starting to get a bit hungry too, so...
«By the way, Carlos...» Cilan asked Anita. «What Pokémon did he use against you?» The girl responded immediately, a bit intimidated. «Umbreon.» She answered. «So his Eevee has evolved. It's not very fair to face a beginner with a fully evolved Pokémon.» Commented the Gym Leader.
After the hearty lunch, consisting of appetizers, two land-based first courses, two land-based main courses, a sorbet, two seafood first courses, and another two seafood main courses, it was finally time for the battle.
The three, escorted by the Gym Leaders, entered the battle area. «This Gym, unlike all the others, specializes in three types: Grass, Fire, and Water, but you already know that. The Gym Leader you challenge depends on the starter Pokémon you chose.» He explained. "That's why Carlos asked me what my first Pokémon was." Anita thought. It made no sense for him to ask which was her starter Pokémon.
«The Gym Leader you face depends on your starter Pokémon.» Cilan explained. «I chose Oshawott.» The girl replied. «Excellent, then I will be your opponent. It will be an honor to battle with you!» Cilan responded. "That's why Carlos asked about my first Pokémon. In normal circumstances, it made sense." she thought. She also hoped her absent look had not been noticed.
«Very well, then we can start. Since it's your first battle, I'll use only two Pokémon. If you had more badges, I could go up to a Full Battle.» He explained. «I'll set up the referee, and we can begin.» Declared the Gym Leader, while fiddling with the keyboard.
«The battle between challenger Anita and the Nacrene City Gym Leader is about to begin. It will be a two-on-two battle. The match will end when one of the Trainers' Pokémon can no longer fight. Only the Challenger is allowed to switch Pokémon.» Declared the electronic referee. «The battle may begin!» Following that declaration, the two could send out their Pokémon. «Lillipup! Go!» Cilan sent out a Lillipup, a Pokémon identical to the one his brother used. «Oshawott, show what we can do!» The girl sent out her first Pokémon.
«Let's start with Aqua Jet!» The Sea Otter Pokémon cloaked itself in water and rushed low towards the opponent. «Try to dodge!» Cilan ordered. «Try to move as much as possible!» ordered Anita.
The Water-type Pokémon obeyed, moving right and left, making it very hard to predict where it would land. The poor Lillipup couldn't figure out where the opponent was coming from and was hit directly, thrown into the air. Despite this, Cilan did not panic. «Try to land and attack with Tackle!» Ordered the Gym Leader. Meanwhile, Oshawott had landed and was catching its breath.
As soon as Anita saw the Puppy Pokémon running at high speed towards her Sea Otter Pokémon, she said, «Try to defend with Shell Blade!» The Pokémon obeyed, holding its shell in its hands and using it as a shield. The girl's plan worked. Oshawott was pushed back a few meters but didn't suffer much damage.
«Now use Water Gun!» From the Otter's mouth came a powerful jet of water that hit the opponent directly, throwing it into the air. Once again, the Gym Leader remained calm. «Use Work Up!» The Puppy Pokémon's body lit up in a light brown color, and its eyes did the same.
«Oshawott! Hit with Aqua Jet!» The Sea Otter Pokémon cloaked itself in water, becoming like a raging bullet. «Come on, Lillipup, use Tackle!» Ordered the Gym Leader. The Puppy Pokémon delivered a powerful attack, made even stronger by gravity. The two Pokémon collided in mid-field, creating a powerful explosion. When the dust settled, the result of the battle was clear to all.
«Lillipup can no longer battle. Oshawott wins.» Declared the electronic referee. «Return, Lillipup. You did a great job.» Cilan recalled his Pokémon. «If you want, you can switch yours too.» He reminded the Gym Leader. «Buddy, do you want to continue, or do you prefer to rest a bit?» She asked the Pokémon. «Sha! Sha!» It replied. «Okay, then we can continue!» Declared the Gym Leader. «Pansage! Go!» The Gym Leader sent out the Grass-type elemental monkey. «The first move goes to the challenger!» Declared the electronic referee.
«Oshawott! Use Aqua Jet!» Ordered the Trainer. The Sea Otter Pokémon cloaked itself in water and rushed towards the opponent. «Defend with Vine Whip!» Thick vines sprouted from the Pokémon's head. It crossed them in front of itself to protect. "Hey! That's the same technique Ash's Snivy used!" She thought. "But how can I counter a technique like that?"
«And now throw it!» The compressed vines from the attack were quickly released, launching the opponent to the opposite side of the Gym. «Oshawott can no longer battle. Pansage wins!» Declared the electronic referee.
Anita recalled her Pokémon into the Poké Ball. «You did great. Lillipup will make sure your effort wasn't in vain.»
From the stands, Ash and Serena had watched the scene. «It seems she handled the loss better this time.» Commented Ash. «I saw. That looks very positive. But Pansage seems strong. Let's see how she does.» The girl replied. «I have faith in her.» While the two were talking, the girl had sent out her Lillipup.
«The first move goes to the Gym Leader!» Declared the electronic referee.
«Alright, Pansage! Use Scratch!» The Grass-type monkey ran towards the opponent. It had a pointed hand, with claws reflecting the light. "What should I do now?" Anita thought. The girl appeared rather nervous, unlike when she was battling with Oshawott.
«Try to defend with Bite!» Ordered Anita. The Puppy jumped and, with its jaws open, bit the opponent's hand.
From the Trainer's expression, it was evident that this choice wasn't well thought out, but rather a choice made out of desperation. This was noticed by the Gym Leader.
«Pansage! Throw it and hit with Seed Bomb!» The Grass-type monkey quickly moved its arm, throwing the opponent into the air. From its mouth began to come out yellow-green seeds that hit the opponent directly.
At this point, Anita was in total panic. She didn't know what to do. «Try using Tackle!» She ordered. The Pokémon had landed by then. It managed to do so decently, without major consequences.
It started running towards the opponent. «Come on, Pansage, throw it with Vine Whip!» As the little Pokémon rushed towards the opponent, two vines appeared from the opponent's head, quickly reaching her.
It was a matter of moments before Lillipup was wrapped and thrown against the barrier. «Lillipup!» The Trainer was rather worried.
«Lillipup can no longer battle! The Gym Leader wins!» Declared the electronic referee. Anita quickly recalled her into the Poké Ball. «We failed. Do I deserve your trust?» She asked herself.
The girl and the Gym Leader met at the center of the battlefield. «You'll do better next time.» The Gym Leader reassured her.
Shortly after, the girl was joined by Ash and Serena. They approached her and placed a hand on her shoulder. «Did I disappoint you?» The girl asked sadly. «Not at all!» The two answered in unison. Serena quickly put a hand over her mouth.
«She had said the same thing Ash had said. At the same time.
«And you're not someone who gives up easily, right?» Ash asked the girl.
«I don't know.» she replied.
«Don't say that. You'll see, with a bit of training, you'll be able to beat him.» Ash encouraged her. The Gym Leader, who had heard everything, smiled. «Then it will be my duty as a Gym Leader to do the same!» he responded.
«I already know someone who can help you.» Ash's tone was quite enthusiastic. Everything was clear, at least in his mind.
"I wonder what he has in mind and, most importantly, what makes him believe in me despite the constant disappointments I've given him… What does he see in me?" Anita wondered to herself.
The three left the Gym and headed to the Pokémon Center to ensure Anita's team was healthy after the battle.
While the girl was handing her team over to Nurse Joy, Ash headed to the video call station. Anita watched him absentmindedly, thinking, "Is he implementing his plan?"
A few moments later, Ash had started the call. He then motioned for the two girls to come closer. Serena approached immediately, while Anita hesitated a bit.
She moved closer to Serena and almost hid behind her. It seemed she was afraid to meet the person who would appear on the screen.
After a few moments, a man around forty appeared on the screen. He had dark skin, black tied-back hair, and eyes of the same color. He was wearing a lab coat and shorts.
«Good morning, Professor Kukui!» Ash greeted him.
«Hello, young man! And the girl next to you is Serena, right?» The girl was speechless. What had Ash told him about her?
«You know, Ash has told me a lot about you. Good things, of course. He told me about your travels in Kalos, you know? You've done some incredible things!» he added.
«Well… we did what we could. We couldn't leave all those people in trouble, and…» the girl replied.
«Don't say that. You really saved all of Kalos!» The Professor emphasized. «And not only that. He also told me about your Showcases and how you decided to participate in Pokémon contests. Believe me, he didn't miss a single one!» he added.
Serena just smiled. She was thrilled that Ash thought of her even when he was traveling in Alola. «You know, I'd like to organize with Magnolia and Ash's former classmates to come see one of your performances. If the paperwork allows.»
Serena didn't know what to say. On one hand, she was pleased, but on the other… those girls could be potential rivals. She quickly realized she couldn't refuse. «I'd be really happy!» she replied with a smile.
Anita began to feel ignored. She didn't want to show it. She was too afraid to do so. She feared their negative reaction.
She decided to move slightly away from where she was. Maybe she did it on purpose, but she was almost completely hidden by Serena.
«And who might you be?» The Professor addressed the girl, who had just emerged from behind Serena.
«N-nice to m-meet you. M-my name i-is A-Anita.» the girl introduced herself.
«So Ash chose you as the Trainer to help achieve his goal?» he asked rhetorically.
«Y-yes.» she replied.
«And knowing his passion for battles that burns like a Blast Burn, he wants to lead you to the title of Unova Champion, right?» The girl nodded.
«I-I'm not sure I'm the right person. I've l-lost almost every battle I've participated in. I w-wonder what he sees in m-me that's so special.» Anita was having another of her crises.
«I'm sure if they've agreed to travel with you, Ash has definitely seen something many others miss. An Inner Power not everyone can recognize.»
Anita smiled faintly.
«I'd like to ask you a question, if I may.» the Professor said, now addressing Serena.
«Please, go ahead.» she replied.
«I imagine you came to Unova to participate in Showcases, right?» The girl nodded.
«Know that I, Magnolia, and the others are cheering for you!» he encouraged her.
«Thank you.» she replied.
«Excuse me… but I have a small commitment. Why did you call me, Ash?» The Professor scratched his head, embarrassed.
«Well, I called simply to make a team rotation. I'd like to exchange one of my Pokémon for Incineroar.» the boy explained.
«No problem.» the Professor replied.
Ash had taken one of his Poké Balls and placed it in the transfer device. A few moments later, the Professor did the same.
In a few seconds, the exchange was made as agreed. The two Poké Balls disappeared and were swapped. After this, the three bid farewell to the Professor.
«Can we use the Battle Field?» Ash asked.
«Of course. Go ahead.» the Nurse replied.
The three left the Pokémon Center and headed towards the Battle Field. As soon as they arrived on the field, Ash smiled.
«I think it's time to train Lillipup a bit.» he introduced. «And I believe no master can be better than him! Come out, Incineroar!» Ash sent out his Pokémon.
It resembled a large bipedal feline with predominant colors of red, black, and gray. Its torso was gray with a black symbol, consisting of a vertical stripe and two horizontal stripes, front and back. Black tufts of fur extended from its shoulders. The arms had black and red stripes, while the hands were red with orange pads and five clawed fingers. The legs were red except for two black bands similar to those on the arms. The feet were red with three toes. The tail was long and red with a black band and a tuft of black fur. A belt of red and yellow flames encircled its waist. The lower part of its face was red and had very thick fur, while the upper part was black. Its teeth were very sharp. The nose was red and triangular, and its eyes had yellow sclera and blue irises. The top of its head had black fur. The two ears, also black, had a red fur pattern similar to that on its torso.
Anita analyzed it with her Rotom Smart «Incineroar, Heel Pokémon. Fire and Dark type and the final evolutionary stage of Litten. Male specimen. It can shoot flames from its belly. A belt of flames surrounds its waist like a fiery belt. Known moves are Fire Fang, Throat Chop, Blast Burn, and Revenge.» After the check, the girl put her Smartphone back in her bag.
"I don't know how such a Pokémon can help Lillipup, but I believe Ash knows what he's doing." Anita thought.
«Alright… Lillipup! Come out!» The girl took the Poké Ball from her bag and sent out her Pokémon. As soon as she saw Ash's Incineroar, she got scared, hiding behind her Trainer's legs.
«Don't worry! He just wants to help you!» The girl tried to reassure her Pokémon, although she herself wondered how such a Pokémon could be of any help.
Serena had somewhat understood what Ash wanted to do but preferred to let the boy explain everything.
«You see?» Ash began. «A Pokémon can become stronger by battling, but it can also become stronger in other ways.» As the boy explained, the little Pokémon had slowly approached Ash's Pokémon.
She had started to sniff him. He seemed rather calm and tried to make her feel at ease. «A Pokémon can become stronger by learning new moves too.» he explained. Exactly what Serena expected.
Meanwhile, Incineroar had gathered several branches of various sizes. After this, the Pokémon bowed to the little Lillipup and offered her a hand, inviting her to climb up. After some initial hesitation, the Pokémon climbed onto what seemed to her like a giant's hand.
«Now I think it's right for you to know why I decided that Incineroar should teach Fire Fang to Lillipup and not another of my Pokémon.» Ash introduced the discussion.
Pikachu was well aware of the story and knew how difficult it was for the boy to tell it.
For this reason, he appreciated that Ash had decided to share the story on his own accord.
Before Ash could start telling the story, their attention was caught by a boy who was out of breath. He was about Anita's age, maybe a little older. He had brown hair and eyes of the same color. He wore a green long-sleeved shirt, covered by a light blue, yellow, and dark blue jacket, jeans, and sneakers.
He seemed like he was about to faint at any moment. Ash and Serena rushed to help him before it was too late. They took him to the Pokémon Center, holding him by the arms. Once inside, they immediately laid him down on one of the long couches. The Nurse, who had witnessed everything, hurried over to them.
Meanwhile, Anita, who had been watching the two rushing to save the stranger, was full of questions and continued observing the training of the two Pokémon.
Incineroar had picked up one of the branches he had found. His mouth filled with flames. Then, he bit down hard on the branch, causing it to explode into several dozen pieces, partially or entirely charred.
«That's the Fire Fang move!» thought the girl. «It's a Fire-type move, which could be very useful against a Grass-type Pokémon like Pansage.» Another thought quickly followed.
«It seems really incredible.» she commented quietly. «Ash didn't tell him 'Teach her Fire Fang' or anything like that. Yet he…» she continued.
Meanwhile, inside the Pokémon Center, the boy was starting to recover. He had gone from lying down to sitting up.
«Thank you for saving me. Without you, I might have gotten hurt.» he said. Ash and Serena simply smiled.
«Don't mention it.» replied Ash.
«Oh… how forgetful of me. I haven't introduced myself yet!» The boy slapped his forehead.
«Nice to meet you… Ash and Serena, right?» They both nodded.
«And you must be Pikachu, right?» The boy pointed to the Pokémon on Ash's shoulder.
«Pika-Pikachu!» the Pokémon introduced himself.
«My name is Gilles.» the boy finally introduced himself.
«Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to take care of my idiot brother.» Gilles said as he stood up and tried to leave.
Ash grabbed him by the arm.
«You don't want to end up like this again. According to the Nurse, you were seriously at risk.» Ash scolded him. «Let us help you.» he added.
Gilles tried to pull his arm away abruptly to make Ash let go.
«It's none of your business!» he snapped.
Ash stepped in front of him, blocking the exit.
A few moments later, Anita entered the Pokémon Center. She had had enough time to understand what had happened and had watched part of her Lillipup's training. She nearly collided with Ash. She was afraid to ask him why he was standing in front of the door, but seeing the boy trying to leave, she had a small idea. He wanted to prevent him from leaving the Pokémon Center, but she didn't understand why.
«All right. I'll tell you everything.» Gilles realized he had no other choice.
In an apartment in one of the many buildings in Nimbasa City lived an ordinary family, consisting of a mother, father, and twin brothers, Gilles and Didier.
The two brothers had a beautiful relationship. When they were little, they often shared their dreams, their desires, what they would do when they became Trainers. They talked about which Pokémon they would catch, how they would challenge the Gyms, and everything else. They often pretended to be Challenger and Gym Leader while learning to battle with their parents' Pokémon, naturally under their parents' watchful eyes.
Among all their parents' Pokémon, their favorites were a Scraggy and a Pancham. The first was Didier's favorite, the second was Gilles's favorite.
The relationship between the two boys seemed perfect, and nothing seemed able to strain it. At school, they always sat next to each other, shared friends, encouraged each other when one wanted to approach a girl, and things like that. There had never been any jealousy between them, for any reason. Of course, they had their arguments, but that was quite normal. They always made up afterward.
Yet, as we know, good things don't last forever.
It all started a few days after they received their first Pokémon as Trainers. That day, their parents had taken them to Professor Juniper's lab.
The two had just turned sixteen, and it was time for them to choose their first Pokémon. It was a late winter day, and it wasn't particularly cold. The snow was starting to melt and was mixing with dirt to form a sort of dense, disgusting mud. It was the worst time of the year. Not so much because spring was coming, but because of the discomfort caused by the melting snow.
When it came time to choose their first Pokémon, the situation was quite chaotic.
«You choose first!» Gilles invited his brother.
«No! It's only right that you choose first!» countered Didier.
«I insist!» Gilles said again, pushing his brother towards the three starter Pokémon.
«Don't do that! You don't have to push over something like this!» growled Didier.
«Will you two stop it? You're sixteen now! You shouldn't be arguing over these things! In other regions, kids become Trainers at ten, but they're much more mature than you!» their mother scolded them.
The two brothers looked each other in the eyes. It was clear that their mother was right. They couldn't always fight over this.
«Choosing your first Pokémon is a serious matter. It will be your faithful companion for your entire career as Trainers. This isn't a race.» the Professor chided them.
The two understood and kneeled in front of the three Pokémon. Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott. They looked each of the three Pokémon in the eyes. Fortunately, the two boys had their eyes on different Pokémon.
«I think I've chosen!» Gilles seemed excited.
«Me too!» replied his brother. They looked each other in the eyes and smiled.
«My first Pokémon will be Snivy!» Gilles's choice was the Grass Snake Pokémon.
«I'll take Tepig!» said his brother. Sure, he knew he would have an advantage over his brother's Pokémon on paper, but since he couldn't know Gilles had chosen Snivy, he couldn't say he had done it on purpose.
«Now that you've got your first Pokémon…» their mother's tone was rather strange.
«It's time for the second.» their father concluded. The boys' parents took a Poké Ball each and handed them to their sons.
The father handed his Poké Ball to Gilles and the mother to Didier. «I suppose you both know which Pokémon are inside these Poké Balls, right?» asked the mother. The two boys nodded in agreement.
Two days later, Gilles and his mother were back at Professor Aralia's lab. The professor welcomed them immediately, without asking questions. It was common for novice Trainers to return to her for advice.
«Good morning.» she greeted them. «Good morning to you.» they replied. «Why are you back so soon? It's only been two days since I gave you your first Pokémon. Did something happen?» she asked.
The boy simply removed his jacket with great care. He took equal care in removing his sweater. His arms bore several wounds, all caused by the same source: whip lashes.
«So, Snivy attacked you?» asked the Professor, rhetorically.
"Could it be her? After all, the Professor had mentioned how Snivy had rejected several Trainers. Yet Gilles seems like a good boy." thought Ash. In any case, the native of Biancavilla decided not to interrupt the story. If he wanted to help, he needed to know what had happened. Perhaps later he would ask some questions.
«Exactly. I tried to send her into battle, but instead of attacking the opponent, she attacked me, for no reason. Yet here at the lab, she seemed so gentle.» replied the boy.
«So, you want to bring her back here to the lab and choose another Pokémon?» asked the woman. «At the moment, I only have Oshawott left.» she added. The boy nodded in agreement. «Perhaps it's the best choice for both of you.» replied the boy.
The Professor didn't press further, allowing the boy to return Snivy and take Oshawott with him.
Back home, at least initially, Didier didn't take it very well. «You did it just to have an advantage with your Pokémon over mine!» he accused. «Sooner or later, you and Snivy would have gotten along. It would have been just a matter of time.» he added. "A few days and things will settle down," or at least that's what Gilles and the parents thought. The truth, however, was quite different.
In the following days, the two brothers tended to ignore each other. Or rather, Didier tried in every way to push his brother away, sometimes even quite violently.
When school resumed after the forced break for the delivery of their first Pokémon, the situation became known to everyone. Usually, the two boys raced each other to see who would arrive first, but not this time. It seemed that they both wanted to blend in with the group as much as possible, with Didier a bit ahead of his brother.
It seemed like the latter was talking to Andrea, one of their classmates. He was known mainly for not being exactly a good boy. He had been suspended numerous times and had been held back twice. He was that kind of repeat offender few wanted to deal with. He talked back to teachers and was often aggressively unmotivated with everyone, so it seemed quite strange to Gilles that his brother was talking to him. He had never done that before.
When Gilles arrived in class, he noticed how the desk he had always occupied, next to his brother's, had been taken over by Andrea. Understanding the situation, the boy could do nothing but give in and sit in Andrea's place, in the back rows. He couldn't believe that such a small thing had caused all this.
Gilles decided to ignore it. He didn't want to make a scene in front of the whole class. If they found out that the reason they were in this situation was because of their choice of first Pokémon, they would be ridiculed for life.
From that distance, Gilles couldn't know what they were talking about. They could be having a normal conversation or they could be gossiping about him.
During break and lunch, Didier tried and succeeded in avoiding talking to his brother, trying to sit as far away from him as possible. He wanted to try to talk to him, but he knew it wouldn't solve anything.
The strangeness continued even during their return home. Usually, the two boys always returned home together, but not this time. Gilles took the usual route home, the street he had always taken with his brother since they were little. His brother had decided to take another, longer route.
"Did he decide to accompany that Andrea?" Gilles wondered. Not that he cared much anymore; as much as he loved his brother, he was old enough to fend for himself now. He didn't want to worry about it.
Even the parents didn't seem particularly worried about it. They were aware of what had happened between the two, but they preferred not to intervene. They wanted them to sort it out themselves.
In the following days, the situation remained largely unchanged, with the two brothers continuing to ignore each other and mind their own business.
Every day that passed, it seemed that the two were drifting further apart, while at the same time, Didier was getting closer and closer to Andrea and distancing himself more and more from his brother.
He came home later every day, and some days he didn't come home at all. One thing that characterized all his returns home was the terrible condition of his clothes. Torn, dirty, he had to wonder what he was doing to ruin his clothes like that.
Another anomaly was that he often woke up listless and looked tired, as if he hadn't slept.
Another strange thing was that there wasn't a day when Didier didn't ask his parents and grandparents for money, starting with small amounts and then increasingly larger sums. The promise to pay them back was enough to get them to lend it to him.
One day, Gilles decided to follow his brother. That day he had come home at a decent time. He had spent the afternoon playing video games and gobbling junk food, ignoring his Pokémon, making his parents take care of them, which annoyed his brother a lot. Being a Trainer also meant being responsible for your own Pokémon.
Despite the precarious situation between them, the brothers were forced to share a bedroom. Of course, during the night, they made sure to turn their backs on each other, even when they slept.
The two brothers lay down within moments of each other.
Didier seemed to want to wait until his brother fell asleep before sneaking out. He waited for about half an hour; it was something he had learned to do, knowing how long it took his brother to fall asleep. Once the half-hour had passed, Didier got out of bed and left the room. He tried to be as quiet as possible. He made his way through the apartment corridor and took his jacket from the coat rack. The door was open, so he had to be careful not to make any noise when opening it.
He exited and began descending the stairs. Their apartment was on the fourth floor out of twenty, so he could have used the elevator, but he didn't want to make noise. He went down the stairs quickly but quietly. He had no inkling that he was being followed.
A few moments later, Gilles also got up and started following his brother. Since their condo was in an alley, the boy didn't
have much choice about the direction to go. Gilles followed his brother along the alley and then onto the main street, always careful not to be seen. He felt like some kind of secret agent, like in the movies he used to watch with his brother, but they had stopped watching them for some time. In this case, however, it was a serious situation.
Pushing aside that thought, the boy continued to follow his brother. They crossed several streets, boulevards, and squares of the large city of Levantopoli. Gilles had to be extremely careful to avoid being noticed; he always tried to keep a certain distance. He was curious but also worried, although he didn't show it. Didier was his brother, after all. He really wanted to understand what was happening with his brother and what it had to do with that Andrea.
The crossing of the city seemed to last an apparently endless time; Gilles had no idea how far he had walked. In his haste, he hadn't brought the Smart Rotom with him. He feared he might have gotten lost.
In any case, Gilles soon noticed that he was in an area of the city he didn't know well. It was a collection of neighborhoods in the city that he had only heard of, known as the Grande Stamberga. It was the most infamous area of the city, full of dilapidated buildings and dark alleys. Gilles shivered. He wouldn't dream of visiting those areas during the day, let alone at night. He feared that some malevolent person might emerge from one of those dilapidated buildings, or worst-case scenario, a murderer. Gilles wondered what could drive his brother to such a dangerous place.
Didier stopped in front of an apparently abandoned building. The facade, once a pretty pink, was ruined. It was missing plaster and covered in mold. The windows were askew; some had broken glass, and others were entirely absent. Didier looked around nervously. He had the feeling that someone was following him. Before stealthily entering the building, Didier glanced around. Gilles hid behind a wall, still without the slightest idea of what was happening.
After looking around, Didier entered the building. Perhaps his suspicions were unfounded. Inside the building were several rather unsavory individuals. If his parents found out he was hanging around with these people... Gilles approached one of the broken windows. He couldn't hear exactly what they were saying, but it was clear that an exchange was taking place. Didier handed over money to one of those people. As soon as that person received the money, they smiled.
Having done this, Didier left the building. Gilles had to move quickly to avoid being discovered by his brother. He tried to restrain the instinct to enter. He knew he would be taking a big risk.
He followed his brother home and waited for him to lie down before doing the same. «These should be enough to make up for my mistake.» the boy said. He thought he wasn't heard.
"What mistake is he talking about?" Gilles wondered. Sure, he knew his brother had gotten into a bad crowd, but he wondered what all that money was for.
With that thought weighing on his mind, Gilles fell asleep.
His plan was to tail his brother again the next day after school. Before falling asleep, he had formulated a theory and wanted to verify it. If they had set aside money, it meant they would spend it one way or another. A few hours later, it was time to get up and get ready for school. The breakfast cups and coffee pot had been prepared the day before to make the morning easier.
Contrary to other days, this time Didier didn't show up for breakfast. He had already gotten up and gone who knows where. During breakfast, Gilles and his parents spoke little. Very little.
"I might come home from school a bit later," Gilles began. His parents didn't say anything. They just hoped he wouldn't end up like his brother.
They couldn't know that his purpose was different, and much simpler. He just wanted to know what his brother was doing and why he had asked for all that money.
After getting ready, Gilles headed towards school. Immediately, the boy noticed that his brother was there too. He was with the usual group of people he hung out with. They were off to the side, near the exit, as if they had come there with the sole purpose of leaving school.
And so it was. Didier and that group of kids left school, with Gilles following them in turn. Like the last time, he tried to keep a certain distance to avoid being discovered.
After following them and reaching the shady parts of the city again, the boy finally understood why his brother had asked for all that money.
"You managed to make amends," said one of those boys, giving him a vigorous pat on the shoulder that made them take several steps forward.
Mentally connecting the words spoken by his brother and those of that boy, Gilles evidently understood that Didier had broken or damaged something and had to repay it.
They walked a little further and met with some other people. Unlike those who made up the group, Gilles had no idea who they were. They didn't seem trustworthy at all. If it were up to him, he would have run away immediately, but the desire to find out what was going on pushed him to stay.
One of the boys from the first group handed a bag containing money to one of the people they had just met. The latter put it in their bag.
I'm sorry for any confusion earlier. Here is the translated text with the correct use of the requested quotation marks:
«Moments later, he walked away. None of those present seemed concerned, as if it were part of their plan.
Ten minutes later, the boy returned, carrying a heavy-looking sack.
"I wonder what could be in there!" pondered Gilles.
The boy's doubts didn't last long. One of the boys who had come with his brother plunged into the sack headfirst, pulling out a crowbar.
«Mmmh, yes. Seems quite solid.» he commented.
He quickly put it back in the sack and examined the second item. It was a sturdy, dark-colored handbag, closed with a large zipper.
The boy opened it and took out the objects inside. Gilles couldn't quite identify them; they looked like knives or screwdrivers.
«Even these lock picks seem to be of excellent quality. You really know how to make our money count.» the boy complimented, emphasizing the word "our." Even though, as far as he knew, that money belonged to his parents and grandparents.
So his brother wanted to repay the money by stealing? He could accept anything but not being the brother of a thief. It was too dishonorable.
In those same moments, Gilles noticed a Pidove fluttering around. "He doesn't have these worries! Living in this city, all he has to worry about is finding food. Maybe one day he'll be caught by some trainer and..." Splof.
The boy's thoughts were interrupted by a rather embarrassing event.
That Pidove had pooped on his jacket. «Arceus Stoutland! You crapped on me! If I catch you...» he shouted, blowing his cover.
If up until that moment no one had noticed his presence, that exclamation had surely given him away. He could hear the heavy footsteps of all those people heading his way.
Including his brother. He was leading the group and looked rather angry. He could try to escape, but he was outnumbered. Most likely, one or more of them could catch up to him.
As athletic as he was, it was likely that someone among them was faster than him. Perhaps his overthinking had trapped him.
Two of the bigger boys lifted him by the arms. He didn't know their names. To him, they were just two of the many troublemakers at school.
One of those boys slipped a hand into his bag, annoying him. He tried to struggle but was held fast. After taking the two Poké Balls from his bag, the boy stopped rummaging.
«Well... well... well... It seems the boy has Pokémon.» he said. Moments later, he locked eyes with one of the older boys.
«I think taking one of his Pokémon should do.» commented one of the boys holding him. All the others looked at each other. It seemed they were considering the proposal.
The silence was broken by Didier. «I'm okay with that... after all, he has a Pancham. Without a Dark-type Pokémon, it's destined to remain a Pancham. With me... or rather, with us, it could become a powerful Pangoro and help us in our... work.» The boy gestured for his companion to pass him the two Poké Balls.
Didier was well aware which Poké Ball belonged to the Rascal Pokémon. It was older and more worn than the Oshawott's. Didier handed over Oshawott's Poké Ball, indicating he could return it without any problems.
Having done so, Didier activated the Poké Ball's opening mechanism, allowing Pancham to come out. He also released his Scraggy from its Poké Ball. «Now you're my Pokémon. You see... Scraggy is a Dark-type Pokémon. You should evolve into Pangoro.» The boy was rather disappointed that the Pokémon showed no sign of evolving, to the extreme disappointment of everyone present.
Taking advantage of the distraction, Gilles attempted to flee. «Pancham! Use Stone Edge!» he ordered.
The Pokémon punched the ground powerfully, causing huge blue-colored stones to emerge and surround him.
This made Didier and everyone else step back, but it wasn't enough to make those boys let go. He needed to come up with something else. He felt his limbs growing numb.
«Pancham! Jump and hit them with Iron Head!» he commanded. The Pokémon leaped, its head's molecular structure changing to become harder than steel.
First Didier, then each of the others in turn, was hit squarely in the chest by the Pokémon and knocked onto their backs.
Some of them hit their heads.
This ensured that most of the group was out of action, but not the two boys who were holding him, who had tightened their grip even further.
«Come on, Pancham! Attack with Thunder Punch!» he ordered.
«Cham?» The Pokémon seemed worried. It knew that if it attacked those two, it would also hurt its Trainer. And it wasn't willing to do that.
«Come on! What are you waiting for? It doesn't matter if you hurt me!» he shouted, making it clear to the Pokémon that it had no choice. It jumped at one of the boys holding his Trainer and delivered a powerful electrified punch.
«AAAAAH!» Gilles and the two boys yelled. But finally, the boy was free.
The two boys were dazed and had let go. Gilles was a bit singed but otherwise in good health. He recalled his Pokémon into its Poké Ball and ran away. He managed to escape before his pursuers recovered.
Gilles was unsure what to do next. After all, for the moment, no one had done anything. Even if he told someone they had acquired that material, as far as he knew, they weren't committing any crime.
In any case, Gilles' intrusion into his brother's affairs had two effects. Firstly, his group of friends sought to make his life more complicated in every possible way.
"The second effect was more evident. Gilles had continued to tail the group his brother belonged to, but each time, Didier was absent.
It seemed Didier was trying to avoid being caught. Perhaps he thought that after Gilles had failed to find him for so long, he would give up.
And Didier's prediction turned out to be correct. Gilles had stopped following that group of people for several days.
This prompted an alarm bell in Gilles' head; it meant his brother had resumed his activities.
It could be the perfect moment to catch him red-handed and…"
«And that's how I ended up here with you.» the boy explained.
Ash, Pikachu, and the girls looked at him as if he were an alien. He was truly determined if, despite everything, he still wanted to mend things with his brother.
«Sorry to interrupt, but while Gilles was telling his story, a police car drove by.» Anita interrupted.
The expression on everyone's faces turned much more concerned.
«And what about Lillipup?» Anita asked, visibly worried for her Pokémon.
«Don't worry.» Ash reassured her. «Incineroar is very strong. It'll protect her from any danger.» Anita felt reassured after the expert trainer's words.
Nevertheless, the situation they were in was far from ideal.
A police car speeding through the city streets meant one thing. Didier had been caught during one of those thefts and was about to face the consequences.
On one hand, it served him right; it was only fair that his brother faced the consequences of his actions and reflected deeply on what led him to make that choice.
On the other hand, however, Gilles still believed his brother could turn things around if someone more convincing and impartial than him spoke to him.
The four of them left the Pokémon Center and headed in the direction Gilles had been going earlier. The boy hoped that at least his brother might have hidden somewhere or something like that. But it was quite unlikely; those things usually happened in movies and video games. In real life, few people would think to hide in trash bins or the like, let alone risk getting trapped in an alley.
Running made little sense; they would never catch up to the significant head start the police car had. They might as well take it easy.
With not many ideas about where Didier could have gone, Ash and the girls decided, willingly or not, to follow Gilles.
They wandered through the city far and wide, but with no results.
«At this point, I think they've got him. On one hand, I'm okay with that. But on the other... what kind of brother would I be?» Gilles pondered.
Ash placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.
«I don't think so. If he's used to these things, as you say, he might have hidden somewhere. Maybe he's already out... who knows.» Anita tried to reassure him, though she seemed to believe it the least.
After several futile searches, as they passed through one of the city's many narrow streets, they noticed something amiss.
One of the dumpsters seemed to be moving suspiciously, startling everyone.
«Pikachu, use Thunderbolt on that dumpster!» Ash ordered.
The electric mouse generated a powerful electric shock that hit the dumpster directly, causing it to explode.
Those present had to shield themselves to avoid being hit by the garbage shower resulting from the explosion. Trash bags of all kinds and general waste were strewn over a wide circular area.
In the midst of the debris lay a boy, singed and clearly unconscious.
«You killed him? Now they'll arrest you too!» Gilles was visibly worried. Fortunately, after a few moments, the boy regained consciousness.
He tried to get up and flee but was immediately stopped by the two boys. As hard as he tried, dragging over a hundred pounds was not easy, especially with the two of them bracing against him.
«And what do you want from me? You know very well you've blown your chances.» despite these words, neither of them hinted at releasing their grip.
Didier considered himself lucky; unlike his companions, he hadn't been caught. Maybe negotiating wasn't so bad after all.
«Look, I know exactly why all this happened.» Ash made sure to make himself heard.
The boy stopped trying to break free. Was he pretending or did he really know something? Reluctantly, he decided to put Ash to the test.
«I know that your fight was because of her.» the boy took his Snivy's Poké Ball from his bag. As soon as the Pokémon emerged, it immediately recognized its former trainer.
It locked eyes with him before turning towards Ash and Pikachu. Gilles felt uneasy; Ash hadn't told him he was now the trainer of that Snivy.
Didier was even worse off. His brother had spilled everything to a perfect stranger.
But what could he do? Attack him with one of his Pokémon? That stranger was Ash Ketchum. Any of his Pokémon would easily overpower Didier's team.
He had no choice but to accept the confrontation.
«Now that I see you're Snivy's trainer, I understand how she truly felt. I understand why she rejected me. She didn't think I was worthy.» Gilles' disappointment was palpable.
«Don't say that. You weren't the first Trainer she rejected. I saw her turn down another one. Then... well... she asked me to battle and I understood everything.» Ash replied, leaving both brothers stunned.
«You understood what?» the two brothers asked.
«What she truly desired. She wants to become stronger. And I think she's learned to discern whether people genuinely desire that or have other motives. Am I wrong?» the boy asked.
«Vii! Vii!» Snivy confirmed her Trainer's words.
«And wasn't that your desire?» Didier turned to his brother accusatorily. «In fact. It was what we promised each other every day. Then how did Snivy reject you?» he added.
His brother didn't know what to answer. It was clear that question had devastated him.
«I'm just an ordinary guy. Like you. Besides, there are millions of people like us in the world. Just as there are millions of Pokémon like my Oshawott or your Tepig. Or even Pancham and Scraggy.»
«These are Pokémon that have chosen... that have accepted to live with us. Despite all our limitations. And then there are Pokémon like Snivy. They are not satisfied. Because my 'desire to become stronger' isn't enough», explained Gilles, leaving his brother speechless. Or rather, Didier had something to say, but... he didn't want to confirm to his brother that, at that moment, he felt the exact same way.
They both knew that even if they and their Pokémon trained day and night for their whole lives, they would never achieve the same results as Ash and his Pokémon.
Ash had noticed that despite both brothers being aware of the truth, they continued to glare at each other.
Over time, he had managed to mend numerous feuds. Even more complex ones than this. In every case, he had adopted the same modus operandi, after presenting those involved with the facts.
And this case would be no exception.
«Now that you're here, face to face, how about a battle?» proposed Ash.
«A battle?!» Anita and the two brothers didn't quite understand the boy's proposal.
Serena, unlike the other three, had already witnessed similar events and knew that Ash's method was very effective. She had also formulated a hypothesis as to why this was the case.
Of course, before it could become a theory, the hypothesis needed to be confirmed, and this could be the suitable situation.
«You don't have much to lose. At least give it a try.» encouraged the girl.
«All right...» replied the two boys, not very convinced. Ash was already prepared to referee the match. «No formalities. It'll be a one-on-one battle. The winner is the one who can defeat the opponent's Pokémon.»
Although somewhat hesitant, the two boys lined up opposite each other in what had become an impromptu battlefield.
«Very well! Pancham, it's your turn!» Gilles sent out his Pokémon. «Scraggy, go!» The brother sent out his Pokémon. It seemed Ash's plan was bearing fruit.
From Didier's Poké Ball emerged a Pokémon resembling a bipedal lizard. Its body was predominantly yellow. The head was darker than the rest of the body, except for the jaw. Its legs were heavily covered in skin. The tail was very broad and darker than the rest of the body. The belly was red with three thin horizontal black stripes, and the hands had three rounded fingers. Its large eyes were positioned on the sides of its head. It had two small nostrils and a mouth with an arched shape. On its head was a small red crest.
The two boys had both chosen the Pokémon given to them by their parents.
«Let's begin! Pancham, use Iron Head!» commanded Gilles. The structure of the mischievous Pokémon's head changed, becoming as hard as steel.
«Scraggy! Headbutt! Quick!» ordered Didier instead. The two Pokémon ran towards each other until they met in the middle of the impromptu battlefield.
The contact between the two was inevitable, and due to the energy released from the impact, both Pokémon staggered back several meters.
Despite this, neither Pokémon seemed willing to give up.
Moments later, Pancham attacked again with an Electric Punch. The mischievous Pokémon's arm, charged with electricity, was ready to strike the enemy.
«Scraggy! Bite the fist with Crunch!» Didier ordered. The Pokémon swiftly reached the target and bit the electrified fist.
Now the battle had turned into a test of endurance. Would Pancham or Scraggy yield first?
«Quick! Attack with Iron Head!» Pancham struck the opponent with a powerful headbutt, forcing it to release its grip. It seemed immobilized.
Having released its grip, Pancham now had free hands.
«Let's end this! Thunder Punch!» ordered Gilles.
«Come on, hold on! Try to defend yourself!» ordered Didier.
The Pokémon, having meanwhile recovered, had managed to pull up the rubbery skin that covered the lower part of its body.
Despite the rubbery skin cushioning the blow, the punch thrown by the mischievous Pokémon had been really powerful and had sent it flying to the other side of the road.
Despite the violence of the impact, the Pokémon had not yet given up. It still held the elastic skin tightly.
«Scraggy, attack with High Jump Kick!» Didier was aware of the danger of that move. He knew well that if it didn't hit the target, the Pokémon would be hurt, but he had no choice.
The Shape-Changing Pokémon jumped up, its knee glowing with an orange aura. Ready to strike the enemy.
Gilles remained watchful. He was perfectly aware of the secondary effect of that move.
«Now dodge!» ordered the boy.
The mischievous Pokémon moved about a meter to the right, preventing the opponent's attack from hitting. Scraggy, planted on the ground, emitted a cry of pain.
«Very good! Let's finish this! Pancham, use Stone Edge!» The mischievous Pokémon obeyed. It attacked its opponent with a powerful punch, which sent it flying once again to the other side of the field.
Scraggy ended up on the ground.
«It doesn't matter that you won. You did your best!» Didier recalled his Scraggy into its Poké Ball.
«As for you...» The boy turned to his brother. «I have to apologize. I was terribly childish.» Gilles moved to approach his brother and demonstrate that he had accepted his apologies, when a familiar sound startled those present. It was the sirens of a police car.
«I knew it! They betrayed me!» Didier lamented, although deep down, he knew he couldn't trust.
The sedan, dark, long, and with a rather pronounced wedge shape, stopped right in front of the alley entrance, making any attempt to escape impossible.
A woman got out of the car. She was wearing a light brown uniform and had some badges. There was no doubt, although her clothing and hairstyle were quite different from what Ash and Serena were used to, but there was no doubt, she was an Officer Jenny.
«Good morning, Officer!» They greeted her.
«Good morning to you, kids.» the woman replied. Suddenly her expression changed, becoming more serious. «Didier. You're under arrest for theft.» The woman took out handcuffs from her belt and handcuffed the boy.
He was somewhat shocked but expected it. After all, he was guilty and could say or do nothing to defend himself. He didn't resist at all when the woman made him get into the back seat.
«Just when we had reconciled...» Gilles commented sadly. On one hand, he knew it was right, but on the other...
«Upon hearing those words and realizing the subject's lack of danger, the Officer stepped away from the car to speak with the boy. Her expression suggested she had good news to deliver.
«I've also been told why he joined them, and I have to admit, it's a really stupid reason. He doesn't need to know, but he'll only be in for a week. I think a week in lockup will teach him a lesson. But now I better get going. Goodbye!» The woman bid farewell and returned to her car. The others reciprocated her farewell.
«Now excuse me, but I really must go!» Gilles bid them goodbye. «I need to get back home. My parents must be worried. Next time we meet, Ash, I'd like to battle you!» Gilles finally parted ways with the group. «And we'll be ready to accept it, won't we, Pikachu?» Ash posed the question rhetorically.
Moments later, he joined the girls in bidding him farewell.
Now the three were heading towards the Pokémon Center, where Incineroar and Lillipup were still training. Judging by the expression on the Heel Pokémon, the little one had made progress.
Without anyone saying anything, the little one grabbed one of the few remaining branches in her mouth. She squeezed it tightly, flames erupting from her mouth, engulfing the entire surface of the branch.
With just one bite, she managed to break and incinerate the branch.
«Wow, that power!» Anita marveled. She couldn't believe how strong her Pokémon was. «Well... with a teacher like that...» Ash commented with a smile.
Shortly after, the boy's expression changed. He knew well that one day, she would evolve into Southland and...
«I'd say you've trained enough for today. That's enough.» Ash commented.
«Yes, maybe they should rest. The same goes for us.» Serena added. Anita simply nodded. She was indeed a bit tired. And if she wanted to challenge the Gym again the next day, she had to be fully focused.
Anita couldn't sleep that night either. And, like the day before, she struggled to have breakfast after being convinced by Ash.
The three arrived at the Gym bright and early, with Cilan already awaiting his challenger. «I knew you'd come back early.» he welcomed her. «I suppose you trained with Ash.» He remarked.
The girl remained silent. She certainly didn't want to reveal her strategy, or the Gym Leader might come up with something to counter it.
«Follow me.» Cilan invited them. The three followed him to the battlefield. Everything was ready for the battle. Ash and Serena settled into the stands, and shortly after, Carlos joined them, sitting next to the boy.
Meanwhile, Cilan was busy with the electronic referee.
«Let's see if I remember correctly... you're Anita, it's your first Gym battle, and your first Pokémon is Oshawott, right?» asked the Gym Leader. «Y-yes.» she replied.
«Then let the battle between Gym Leader Cilan and challenger Anita begin. It will be a two-on-two battle, though only the Challenger will be allowed to switch her Pokémon. The battle will end when both Pokémon of one trainer are unable to battle.» announced the electronic referee.
«Lillipup! It's your turn!» The Gym Leader sent out his first Pokémon. Shortly after, the challenger followed suit. «Oshawott! It's your moment!»