A New Moon Rising Pokémon Saga: Kanto Journeys

by The Story's Shadow

A new hero and a new journey begins as a new young trainer, Dakota, sets off on his own Pokémon journey inspired by his hero, Ash Ketchum, and other influential people in his life. History follows a similar rhythm as Dakota faces challenges as he also battles against Team Rocket renewed in their hunger for power while also making lifelong friends with his starter, Rockruff.

9. Episode 9

(I hope you all enjoyed the New Year and this update!)

HRC Stanley: Yup.

Rushstar32: I hope to really link this with the anime as effectively as possible. He was surprised, to say the least. The battle between Casey and Jason was arguably the most anticipated part of the episode. The gym battle awaits.

Death Fury: Thanks. Happy New Year.

MBS41: Thanks. They're both beloved characters, we didn't get to see much of them after the Hoenn, Battle Frontier, and Sinnoh stories.

Nobel Six: Thanks.

Episode 9: Pitched Battles at the Pewter City Gym

(Pewter City, the next day)

Dakota, Rockruff, and Jason walked up to the Pewter City Gym. Jason couldn't help the smile on his face as he gazed at the first Kanto Pokémon Gym.

"It hasn't changed one bit."

Dakota and Rockruff looked over the outside structure of the gym. It was very simple and plain, the stones embedded in the building surrounded the entryway with the sign that marks it as a gym above the doors. A few rocks of various sizes surrounded the building, which Rockruff walked over to sniff.

Dakota felt a bead of sweat on his forehead and a slight pain in his stomach. His breathing was slow and a little shallow. Jason turned to him as Rockruff walked back up to him.

"Nervous?"

"Is it that obvious?"

Jason chuckled lightly.

"I gotta admit, I didn't think I'd ever see you this uncertain. Well, other than around pretty girls and women that is, especially a certain few."

Dakota turned to him, unintentionally gritting his teeth as a light growl escaped his throat. Jason's eyes widened at this. The boy gasped at this, shaking his head lightly before turning his gaze back on the gym.

"S-Sorry…I…I don't like being teased."

Jason's expression shifted into a light, sad smile.

"Well, that shouldn't be an issue here. I should let you know though, some Gym Leaders and other opponents will recognize that and exploit it."

Dakota nodded. He inhaled deeply then exhaled before walking into the gym, Rockruff and Jason following him in.

(Pewter City Gym, a minute later)

The trio walked into the gym, which made Jason's eyes widen a little at the sight.

"Ok, things have changed."

The area around the battle area was a vibrant blue, as if water pooled below them. On the walls were flat rocks embedded in them which were painted a blue that was a little duller than the blue on the floor. The battle ground was several yards wide and long with jagged tall rocks that jutted out from the ground on the sides with different rocks of various sizes and shapes placed around the battlefield.

Sitting on the floor on the other end, was a young man with thick brown hair dressed in a deep green jacket, blue jeans, and common sneakers. A confident smile was on his face.

"Ah, another challenger. It's been a little bit since one's come in. Welcome to the Pewter City Gym, I'm Forrest, the Gym Leader….Wait, hey, you're Jason Sorenson!"

Jason's eyes widened a little at this before his expression relaxed.

"I am, but I'm just here to watch this gym battle."

"R-Right, you faced my dad years ago. Wait, if you're here…then-"

Dakota pulled off his hood, revealing his face as Rockruff came to stand beside him. Forrest gasped then grinned widely.

"It's you!"

Forrest rushed over to Dakota and started shaking his hand, which received a look of total shock on the boy's face.

"My family and I watched you on TV after Brock told us to turn on the news! What you did was so cool!"

"T…Thanks."

Jason couldn't help his laugh.

"Forgive him, he's a little socially awkward."

Forrest's eyes widened at this. He released Dakota's hand and then walked over to Jason, moving close to Jason's face. Jason's eyes widened a little at this as Forrest whispered to him.

"He's socially awkward? Him?!"

Dakota raised an eyebrow at this though he turned to Rockruff who was gently pulling on Dakota's leg. The boy then knelt down to face him.

"Hey buddy, what's wrong?"

"Ruff! Ruff!"

Rockruff shifted his gaze from Dakota to the battleground then back to him.

"Ruff! Ruff!"

The boy was quiet for a few moments, his eyes widened at this. Rockruff's face shifted with a serious tone.

"Ruff! Ruff! Ruff!"

The rock type motioned with his head to the Poké Balls then to Jason, who was still talking with Forrest. Dakota had followed his gaze then returned his attention to Rockruff, who nodded to him with the same expression. The boy's look of uncertainty then shifted into recognition and focus. He nodded to Rockruff.

"Ok, buddy, I hear you. Let's do it."

"Ruff!"

A smile spread on Rockruff's face.

Dakota stood up and turned to Forrest and Jason, who turned to him once their conversation ended. The Gym Leader smiled, arms crossed.

"Ready?"

Dakota nodded. Forrest smiled in return.

"Alright, let's get to it. Today, we'll have a special referee?"

"We will?"

"Bro!"

From the back of the gym, emerged Forrest's older brother, Brock. The Pokémon Doctor held a plastic spoon in hand as he slurped something from it into his mouth. A smile appeared on his face as he looked at the spoon.

"Forrest, the sauce for the noodles is getting close to being done. I think maybe a little more spice will be, oh-"

He looked up to where his brother was, who had a big grin on his face. Brock gasped at the sight of Dakota and Rockruff.

"Well this is an unexpected pleasure!"

Brock jogged over to where the group was though careful not to spill what was in the spoon.

"You're the kid from Pallet Town or Alola right?"

"Yes?"

"You did a really brave thing, Mr. Mahina. A friend and I were watching you on the big screen, we were both very impressed."

Dakota gasped lightly.

"Thanks."

Brock smiled.

"I gotta say, I've never seen Team Rocket be beaten like that."

"Really?"

Brock laughed.

"Believe me, me and my friends have sent them blasting off plenty of times. I actually lost count."

Brock chuckled.

"So you're here for a gym battle, huh? This'll be interesting. Especially if this little guy is your first Pokémon."

Brock knelt down to face Rockruff, the rock type standing still though not rigidly. He smiled and looked over Rockruff.

"A Rockruff, the same one that was on the news with you. I see why you chose him."

"Well, it's because he chose me as well that we're on the journey together."

Brock smiled at this, standing up.

"That's good to hear. I'm looking forward to seeing you battle Forrest here. Oh! Jason Sorenson, I didn't see you there."

Jason laughed.

"Don't worry, it's actually a relief not to be the first person to be approached in the room."

"I must admit, part of me thought I'd see Mr. Mahina at the charity event with you."

"He was there, just in the corner."

Brock gasped then turned to Dakota.

"I'm surprised you weren't a part of the event."

"I…I'm not great in crowds."

Brock gasped louder.

"Wait, what?!"

"Y…Yeah."

"Sorry, I'm just surprised given what you did."

"I…I maybe should've done that differently…or hid my face."

Jason's smile receded though a frown didn't appear. Brock sighed before resting a hand on the boy's shoulder, which made Dakota gasp under his breath.

"Don't feel ashamed, you did a good thing. Be proud. Trust me, I've seen courage many times before and that stood out."

"T…Thanks."

Brock nodded, smiling. He then turned to Forrest.

"I guess the food can wait."

Dakota looked at the spoon, seeing the red sauce in it. He placed a finger in it and took a taste. Brock turned at this and saw Dakota's face shift as the boy contemplated before he spoke.

"Maybe a little less onion, a little more tomato and maybe salt?"

Brock's eyebrows raised a little before he took another taste of the sauce. He then smiled.

"Good catch, I'll make sure to fix that up later."

Dakota smiled slightly and nodded. Jason grinned at this and turned to Brock.

"You should try his cooking."

"You're a cook?"

"Not as good as my mom, though."

Brock grinned.

"Hmm, you and I are gonna have to cook some time together. It would be fun."

Dakota's eyes widened a little at this then smiled and nodded.

Jason chuckled.

"That I'd like to see."

The group chuckled.

There was then a knocking at the gym door. Forrest raised an eyebrow at this.

"Another challenger?"

The group watched as Forrest raised an eyebrow.

"They do know they can just walk in, right?"

As if on cue, the door opened and from the outside walked in a familiar face. Jason almost laughed at the surprise of seeing Casey walk in. The look of surprise on her face wasn't lost on the group, some of whom greeted her with a smile. She almost laughed as well.

"Your gym is quite the hot spot for celebrities, Brock."

Brock laughed.

"Well it's not my gym anymore. Forrest, have you met Casey?"

The Pewter City Gym Leader smiled and held out his hand.

"The pleasure's mine."

Casey shook his hand.

"It'll be interesting to see how different you are as a gym leader compared to your dad and brother."

"Oh that's right, I remember dad telling me about some of his more driven challengers."

Casey grinned.

"Really? What did he tell you?"

"Well he said you used a move with one of your Pokémon that nearly destroyed the entire gym."

Jason flinched at this.

"Wait, you what?!"

"Y…Yeah, that sounds like me when I was younger…maybe a little now still."

Jason turned to Brock, who shrugged his shoulders slightly.

"Casey likes to win. Though speaking of which, I'm surprised you haven't won the other badges in Kanto. What caused you to not finish that quest?"

"Well, there was a little issue with Team Rocket trying to steal Professor Elm's research about evolution and their attempts at capturing some of the Gym Leaders' Pokémon in Johto."

"Oh right, how could I forget?"

Jason nodded.

"I remember seeing a news report about it. Apparently there were a few trainers Professor Elm and the police had to get some help from to root them out."

Casey nodded.

"He contacted those of us he said had a spark for battling, naturally I was one of the ones he picked. There was also someone with a Typhlosion and even Lance, the Johto Champion, helped later on when things got more tense."

Jason nodded.

"And you captured all of them?"

"The ringleaders that had been in Johto at the time, some of their grunts managed to flee though Lance suspected they were heading back to Kanto."

Brock rubbed his chin.

"Possibly, but Team Rocket aren't ones to give up easily. I speak from experience."

Casey nodded.

"Right. Oh, speaking of that, are those three jerks from Team Rocket still trying to steal Ash's Pikachu?"

Brock laughed.

"Last he told me they'd tried to create an elaborate maze to separate him from Pikachu and his other Pokémon. Thankfully they managed to deal with them."

Jason's eyebrows raised up.

"Wait, you're saying three Team Rocket members have been trying to steal his Pikachu and other Pokémon for years now? Why haven't they been captured and imprisoned?"

"Those three don't know when to quit, plus it's not exactly easy to cuff them when they're sent blasting off. I don't know why the fight always ends like that other than us just wanting to get rid of them."

Jason rubbed his chin.

"I'll have to let the police know that when I meet with them tomorrow."

"Oh?"

Jason chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck in slight embarrassment.

"William got me a meeting with the local police chief here in Pewter City. I'm gonna stay in Kanto to help try and capture as many of them as possible. Though I don't know the temperament of the police in Kanto as well as those in Hoenn."

"Good luck with that, truly. I will warn you though, Team Rocket won't go down easily."

Jason nodded after a moment. Casey turned to Jason.

"So, what brings you here?"

Jason gasped at this, before turning to Dakota. The boy sat on a rock, petting Rockruff, looking at them. To the former champion's surprise, Dakota didn't show any signs of irritation or impatience as far as he could perceive.

"Sorry, Dakota, we kinda got lost in the conversation."

"I understand."

Forrest smiled at this.

"Ok, let's get to it then."

After a few minutes Dakota with Rockruff stood in the challenger's position across from Forrest while Brock stood on the side. Casey and Jason watched from above in the concourse of the building. Brock spoke up.

"The match between Forrest the Pewter City Gym Leader and the challenger Dakota Mahina will now begin! Each trainer will use three Pokémon each, only the challenger will be allowed to substitute their Pokémon. Forrest will call out his Pokémon first!"

Forrest smiled and nodded.

"Thanks, big bro. Geodude, let's go!"

Forrest threw a Poké Ball and from it emerged the rock type.

"Geodude!"

Dakota gripped the Poké Ball in hand, a look of both determination and anxiety on his face. He called out as he threw it.

"Nidoran, let's go!"

From the object emerged the male Nidoran, ears erect at the current situation.

Jason held out a Poké Ball and from it emerged Snivy. He placed her on his shoulder.

"Now watch, Snivy. This'll be a good learning experience."

"Sni."

Brock nodded as he watched both trainers and their Pokémon locking their gazes upon one another..

"Ok. Battle begin!"

Forrest grinned.

"Geodude, use Sand Attack!"

"Geo! Dude!"

The rock type slashed one hand across the ground, sand flying forward towards Nidoran.

"Dodge and use Poison Sting!"

Nidoran leapt to the side and fired poisonous projectiles from its mouth at the rock type. Forrest smiled.

"Use Sand Attack to cancel it out!"

"Geo! Dude!"

Geodude slashed the ground again, sand flew up and blocked the Poison Sting. Dakota gritted his teeth slightly.

"Nidoran, use Tackle!"

The poison type rushed forward, nearing the rock type. Forrest chuckled.

"From one tactic to the other. Geodude, use Rock Throw!"

Geodude struck the ground with one hand, sending rocks flying toward Nidoran.

"Dodge it Nidoran and use Poison Sting!"

The poison type leapt to the side, landing on a rock before firing more of the poisonous projectiles from its mouth. This type they landed though Geodude shook off the attack's strike, eyes narrowed. Nidoran gasped at this though Dakota didn't.

"Nidoran, it's ok, we knew this wasn't gonna be easy. So let's keep going, use Poison Sting again!"

Nidoran turned and fired the poisonous projectiles fired from its mouth, aiming for Geodude. Forrest smiled.

"That's what I like to see. Geodude, use Rock Throw!"

Geodude smashed its hand into the ground again, sending rocks flying and smashing through the Poison Sting.

"Dodge it Nidoran!"

The poison type leapt off from the rock he was on, flying towards another. Forrest's eyes narrowed.

"Geodude, use Sand Attack!"

"Geodude!"

The rock type slashed its hand against the ground, sending sand flying towards the poison type's face. It struck as Nidoran landed on the ground. It growled in surprise and panic, shaking its head erratically as to clear the sand from its eyes. Dakota gritted his teeth.

Jason nodded slightly at this.

"Good move by Forrest, he saw the opening and didn't hesitate. This'll be a little problem for Dakota."

Casey rubbed her chin at this, watching the boy intently as he battled. Dakota watched as Nidoran scratched at his eyes as he panicked and whimpered. The boy's eyes focused on the poison type's ears twitching and moving around constantly.

"Nidoran, just keep your eyes closed!"

The poison type's head perked up, gasping. Forrest raised an eyebrow at this, as did Brock. The boy focused on Nidoran.

"Do your best to stay calm, don't focus on your eyes."

Jason also raised an eyebrow at this.

"What are you planning, Dakota?"

Forrest's curious visage shifted to focus.

"Geodude, don't let them have a minute to think! Use Rock Throw!"

"Geo! Dude!"

Again, Geodude smashed a hand against the ground. Dakota's eyes narrowed.

"Nidoran! Don't try to look, just listen and dodge!"

The poison type whimpered at this, though used his ears to hone in on the sound of rocks breaking and the sounds of something flying through the air. Nidoran gasped at his hearing fixed on them, then he leapt just far enough away from where he believed the sounds were heading.

Forrest gasped at this while Brock just smiled.

Dakota's eyes stayed focused though.

"Nidoran, use Sand Attack where you heard the sounds come from!"

Nidoran quickly turned for his back legs to face Geodude then began kicking sand towards Geodude's direction. Forrest's gaze focused again.

"Dodge it Geodude!"

"Geo!"

The rock type slid to the side before the sand neared it by a few seconds.

"Ok Geodude, wrap this up with Rollout!"

"Geo! Dude!"

Geodude began rolling in place then raced towards Nidoran as it rolled at a high speed forward. Dakota frowned slightly.

"Nidoran wait, stay still!"

Brock's face fixed on the boy and his Nidoran as his brother's Geodude surged towards the poison type. Dakota's eyes widened though not out of surprise as the rock type was within a foot of the poison type.

"Now jump up!"

Nidoran jumped up into the air at his command. Forrest gasped then his focus narrowed on Nidoran.

"Use Rollout and roll up then up off one of the tall rocks nearby!"

"Geo! Dude!"

The rock type surged towards, up, then off one of the rocks. Nidoran cried out in pain as Geodude hit him dead on, sending them both spiraling to the ground. The rock type landed without issue while the poison type hit the ground on his side.

Dakota gasped.

"Are you ok, Nidoran?!"

The poison type motioned to get up, teeth gritting in pain. Nidoran gasped as he shook his head, finally managing to clear his vision. The poison type then turned to face Geodude, who stared back with a hard expression. Then it gasped as a small purple surge overcame it and purple static shocked it.

Forrest gritted his teeth.

"Poisoned, dang it!"

Brock nodded at this as he watched Nidoran panted, eyes focused on the rock type.

On the concourse, Snivy's eyes widened at the sight of the rock type having been poisoned.

"Sni! Snivy."

Jason chuckled slightly.

"Poison Point. That'll be an issue for Geodude."

Casey smiled lightly.

"Lucky break."

Rockruff barked loudly, a smile on his face. Nidoran smiled back at him before turning back to the battle. Dakota watched as Nidoran panted while Geodude looked somewhat in pain.

"Nidoran, use Poison Sting!"

Nidoran opened his mouth and fired the poisonous projectiles.

"Dodge and use Rollout!"

"Geo!"

The rock typed rolled forward, aiming straight for Nidoran. Dakota felt a little sweat on his forehead though he noticed that Nidoran was close to some of the larger rocks.

"Nidoran, get in between the rocks!"

The poison type jumped into the small forest of rocks, making Geodude strike and break through one of the large rocks. This had caused the attack to end and made the rock type turn to face Nidoran.

"Use Poison Sting!"

The poison type opened his mouth again, firing the poisonous projectiles which struck Geodude's face, making it wince in surprise and pain.

"Now Double Kick!"

Nidoran then leapt forward, turning in the air and striking both feet against Geodude's body. The rock type cried out in pain, hitting another of the large rocks behind it. Geodude dropped to the ground, wincing. Forrest gasped then gritted his teeth.

"Geodude, use Rock Throw!"

"Use Tackle, hurry!"

As Geodude moved to smash one hand against the ground, Nidoran jumped forward and hit the rock type's flank.

"Geo!"

The rock type winced again as it was thrown back against another large rock.

"Again, Double Kick!"

Nidoran jumped forward, striking both feet against Geodude's body and sent it through the large rock. Geodude fell to the ground, knocked out. Brock nodded at this.

"Geodude is unable to battle, Nidoran wins!"

Nidoran sighed in relief while Dakota smiled. Rockruff barked loudly, a big smile on his face as his tail wagged.

"Ruff! Ruff!"

"Nice job, Nidoran."

The poison type turned to them, smiling and nodded. Forrest leveled the Poké Ball towards Geodude, a red light drawing the rock type back into the object.

"Thank you, Geodude, you did your best."

Forrest put the Poké Ball away then turned back to Dakota, pulling out another Poké Ball.

"This is turning out to be a good battle. That doesn't mean it'll be easy. Onix, go!"

Forrest threw the object forward, and from it emerged the large snake-like rock type Pokémon.

"Yyuuuhwwwoorrrrr!"

Brock smiled at the sight of the rock type, good memories returning to him. Casey smiled as well.

"Onix, definitely the star of the Pewter City Gym."

Jason nodded.

"Flint talked about Brock's Onix and how it had withstood several challenges in the past."

"It's definitely a powerful Pokémon."

Dakota's posture didn't change though he noticed Nidoran shook a little at the sight of the towering rock type. He leveled his Poké Ball at Nidoran.

"Ok, Nidoran, return!"

The poison type turned to him, sighing in relief before it was taken back into the object. Dakota looked at it.

"Take a breath, Nidoran, you earned it."

He put the Poké Ball away then grabbed another.

"Nidoran, go!"

Forrest's eyes widened.

"Wait, what? But you just said-?"

From the object, emerged the female Nidoran. She gasped at the sight of the towering rock type, which regarded her with a somewhat stoic look. Forrest winced in embarrassment at seeing the female on the battlefield.

Rockruff barked to her, which received a surprised yet confident grin from her.

"Oh, you have both. My bad. Anyways, let's get to it. Onix use Rock Throw!"

Onix bellowed as it smashed the ground with its tail, sending rocks flying towards the poison type.

"Dodge it, Nidoran!"

The female Nidoran grinned as she leapt forward, jumping from one rock to the next and evading the attack. Forrest and Onix gasped at this.

"Wow, this Nidoran is pretty brave."

"Nidoran, use Poison Sting!"

Nidoran opened her mouth and fired those poisonous projectiles. Onix grumbled in light pain and annoyance, the multistrike attack hitting the side of its face.

"Onix, use Dragon Breath!"

"Yurrrrrowhhh!"

Onix opened its mouth and a beam of green and yellow energy blasted towards Nidoran as she landed on another rock.

"Dodge it and use Double Kick!"

Nidoran leapt to the side of the strike then lunged forward.

"Dodge by using Dig!"

Onix then dove into the ground, burrowing into it just seconds before Nidoran could land the attack. Dakota gritted his teeth at this.

Snivy's eyes widened slightly at this while Jason stared intently as he whispered under his breath.

"Ok, Dakota, let's see how you respond to this."

The boy felt sweat pouring down his face as Nidoran's gaze nervously from one spot to another on the battleground.

"Nidoran, listen for where Onix is gonna emerge from and dodge before it does!"

Nidoran's ears twitched as she took a more defensive stance. The ground began to rumble as it was made clear Onix was drawing near to the poison type. Dakota noticed the sweat on Nidoran's face while she tried to put up a brave visage.

"Hold on, Nidoran."

Her eyes widened as she leapt away as Onix surged out from the ground, grazing Nidoran on the side. She cried out in surprise as she was thrown towards one of the large rocks. Onix grumbled as he moved to a position across from her. Though a purple surge of energy washed over the rock type as purple static shocked it.

Rockruff gasped then smiled, barking in support.

Forrest gritted his teeth at this.

"Poisoned already?! Ok, Onix use Bind!"

Onix surged forward, moving to wrap its massive form around Nidoran.

"Dodge it! Quick!"

Nidoran gasped before she leapt away, Onix's body destroying some of the rocks around where she was.

"Onix, use Screech!"

Onix turned its gaze to Nidoran and opened its mouth releasing a sonic cry that surged towards the poison type. Nidoran cried out in surprise and panic before being sent flying back and into another large rock.

One of Casey's eyebrows raised up.

"Onix using Screech? You don't see that very often."

Jason rubbed his chin, recalling two gym leaders in Sinnoh used this tactic. A small smile appeared on his face as he spoke under his breath.

"Good strategy."

Forrest didn't smile or smirk though.

"Onix, use Slam!"

Onix bellowed as it lunged forward, twisting its body around to strike at Nidoran with its tail. Dakota's eyes narrowed.

"Dodge it, Nidoran!"

Nidoran's eyes narrowed at this and jumped away, moments before Onix's tail smashed into the ground below and destroyed a few of the rocks.

"Now Double Kick! Hurry!"

Nidoran jumped forward, turning around and struck both of her feet against Onix. The rock type gritted its teeth in pain though not to the degree one would believe.

"Use Double Kick back to back!"

"Onix dodge by using Dig!"

Onix moved to burrow into the ground again though the poison effect took hold again, purple static striking it. The rock type groaned in pain, not noticing Nidoran jump forward and strike it with both feet. Onix groaned in pain again as Nidoran continued to strike it with the fighting type move.

"Onix use Rock Slide!"

Onix's eyes opened before he bellowed, several long and large rocks manifesting into the air above before being shot down towards Nidoran.

"Use Double Kick on the rocks!"

Before Forrest could react, Nidoran leapt up, slamming her feet into one and cracking it before launching herself at another. The poison type continued to jump to and strike each of the rocks. Forrest gritted his teeth.

"Onix, quick use Bind!"

"YYYYuuuurrrrroooorrrr!"

Onix shot forward, quickly constricting its body around Nidoran. The poison type cried out in shock and pain, now that Onix held her on top of a larger rock.

"Nidoran!"

The poison type cried out, trying to wrench herself from but Onix's stoney form held her in place as it tightened. Rockruff gasped then growled.

Forrest sighed lightly.

"Nice catch, Onix."

"Nidoran, Poison Sting!"

Nidoran moved to open her mouth, but Onix's form continued to constrict her which resulted in only a cry of pain emerging. Dakota felt more sweat on his forehead, his teeth gritting. The Pewter City Gym Leader noticed this expression. Jason also noted this from where he watched.

"Your Pokémon's literally in a bind, Dakota. How can you get out?"

Dakota felt the pressure both literally and metaphorically, the former being a headache hitting. He gritted his teeth tighter, trying to come up with a strategy.

Jason watched from the concourse, eyes narrowing slightly.

"Looks like he's running on fumes. Nidoran being a poison type won't be able to get herself out of Onix's Bind with any super effective attack. Dakota may have lost this one, he should've kept Nidoran moving and out of Onix's reach."

Snivy nodded at this while Casey remained quiet, rubbing her chin.

Dakota continued to struggle to form a strategy. His eyes looked around, trying to come up with an idea. Then he spotted where her feet were and where the bottom of Onix was then back at the ever present sign of pain and discomfort on Onix's face..

"Nidoran, use Double Kick and swing them up!"

Forrest gasped.

"Wait, what?"

Nidoran cried out as she swung her back legs up which at the tips of her feet hit Onix. The rock type grimaced just barely at this though kept his hold on her. Forrest almost laughed.

"Nice try, but-"

As he said this Dakota called out again.

"Now swing your feet back and use Double Kick on the rock below!"

"What?! Onix, use Dragon Breath!"

Onix opened his mouth, preparing to unleash the attack but the same poisonous wave surged over him and purple static shocked it. The rock type growled in pain, canceling the attack. Nidoran swung her feet back, striking the top of the rocks below as Onix's grip on her had loosened ever so slightly and given her some room to move her legs.

The rock below cracked and Onix's weight made it crumple. Onix cried out in surprise, falling down on his side with the poison effect just now ending momentarily.

Nidoran jumped away, panting heavily, her eyes wide despite trying to keep a composed face.

Rockruff sighed at this though Dakota's face was still fixed with a serious visage.

Jason's eyebrows raised up at this.

"Huh, didn't expect that."

Casey chuckled.

"Well how about that?"

Brock watched, a small smile on his face as he rubbed his chin.

"Interesting."

Forrest's eyes were a little wide at having seen what had just happened.

"Onix, are you ok?!"

The rock type grunted and grumbled, managing to pick itself up.

"Ok, use Rock Slide!"

Onix bellowed, several large sharpened rocks appearing above its head before they were flung at Nidoran.

"Dodge them and use Poison Sting!"

Nidoran jumped away, moving out of range of the rocks as she fired the poisonous projectiles at Onix. The rock type grumbled louder now as the multistrike attack peppered its face. Forrest grumbled.

"Ok, use Bind again!"

Onix roared as it charged forward in a burst of speed, eyes narrowed on the poison type. Nidoran gasped at this sight, eyes wide.

"Nidoran, stay calm and use Sand Attack! Aim for Onix's face!"

Nidoran didn't waste a moment, she quickly turned her back to Onix then furiously kicked sand back at Onix. A few of the first attempts hit lower than Onix's face though within several feet of her, Onix's face was hit by the last Sand Attack. Onix bellowed in surprise and irritation, shaking its head as it charged forward though its momentum didn't stop.

"Move Nidoran!"

The poison type leapt out of the rock type's way before Onix smashed through the rocks in front of it.

''Onix!"

"Nidoran, use Double Kick back to back!"

"Onix! Move!"

The poison type had rushed forward by the time Forrest had called out. Her feet struck Onix's body at different points and after the last strike just as Onix had cleared its vision it fell to the ground, knocked out.

Brock nodded.

"Onix is unable to battle, Nidoran is the winner!"

Rockruff barked loudly, tail wagging quickly. Dakota sighed in relief as did Nidoran.

"Great job, Nidoran."

The poison type turned to him, smiling. Forrest sighed and leveled the Poké Ball at Onix.

"Return, Onix."

The rock type was drawn back into the object by the red light.

"You did your best Onix, thank you."

Rockruff jumped up and down, smiling and barking. Dakota felt the pressure slowly fall away though this feeling…almost like a warning built in him as Forrest took out the last Poké Ball for the match.

"Ok, it's up to you. Omantye, go!"

The Pewter City Gym Leader threw the Poké Ball, from the object emerged a Pokémon with bright blue skin with large eyes with a helix spiral shell fixed on its body. Dakota's eyes widened a little at the sight of the prehistoric Pokémon as he pulled out his Pokédex which spoke:

"Omanyte, the Spiral Pokémon. Omantye was once an extinct Pokémon though thanks to more recent revivals by Pokémon Professors they now have a fairly sizable population in the world."

He put away the Pokédex.

"I have to say, I wasn't expecting a prehistoric Pokémon."

"A gift from Professor Oak after proving myself a capable Gym Leader."

Dakota nodded at this.

Jason rubbed his chin, eyebrows up at the surprise.

"Fossil Pokémon are pretty rare, this is quite interesting."

Casey chuckled lightly.

"Don't you have a few yourself?"

Jason gasped at this.

"How'd you know?"

"I've watched a few of your battles."

Jason chuckled lightly at this.

Their attention turned back to Dakota who looked to Nidoran.

"Nidoran, can you continue?"

The poison type smirked and nodded despite her panting. The boy nodded and turned to Forrest who nodded.

"Omanyte, use Water Gun!"

A stream of water shot out from the Pokémon's mouth.

"Dodge and use Poison Sting!"

Nidoran moved to the side, firing more of the poisonous projectiles at Omanyte.

"Sand Attack!"

Omantye struck the ground with its tentacles, throwing sand at Nidoran's attack. They hit one another though Omanyte's attack overpowered Nidoran's though only to the point it was knocked to the ground as did the sand.

"Omanyte, use Water Gun on the spot in front of Nidoran."

"Dodge it, Nidoran!"

Despite Dakota's call, Omanyte's attack was quicker than Nidoran could respond to. The water softened the ground in front of Nidoran. She slipped on the ground as she then swept over to one of the rocks.

"Omanyte, now use Mud Shot!"

The Pokémon fired several balls of thick, caked mud at Nidoran. The poison type gasped as the attack struck, creating a small cloud of dust. Eventually it receded, revealing Nidoran had been knocked out. Brock nodded at this.

"Nidoran is unable to battle, Omanyte is the winner!"

"Well done Omanyte."

The Pokémon chirped happily. Dakota leveled a Poké Ball at Nidoran.

"You did great, Nidoran. Thank you."

He put the Poké Ball away then took another and threw it.

"Nidoran, go!"

The male Nidoran emerged from it, appearing to have a little more energy than he had at the end of his battle with Geodude.

"Nidoran, use Sand Attack!"

Nidoran turned around then began kicking sand at Omanyte.

"Use Water Gun!"

A quick stream of water shot forward towards the sand.

"Dodge and use Poison Sting!"

Nidoran jumped to the side and fired the attack.

"Water Gun, again!"

The rock and water type first another stream of water against the multistrike poison attack. Nidoran managed to jump away from the attack as it overpowered his attack.

"Use Sand Attack, Nidoran!"

Nidoran again kicked sand with his back feet which flew at Omanyte.

"Use Withdraw!"

Omanyte retreated into its shell which flashed with red light. The sand harmlessly struck the shell, having been aimed at the Pokémon's face. Dakota gritted his teeth.

"Now Poison Sting!"

Nidoran opened his mouth, firing the attack again.

"Dodge with Rollout!"

Omanyte then began to roll in its shell, curving around the attack aimed for it then neared Nidoran.

"Nidoran use Double Kick!"

The poison type jumped forward, aiming to strike Omanyte with both feet.

Jason gasped.

"Wait, is Forrest-"

"Omanyte, turn on the edge of your shell!"

Nidoran watched as its opponent turned on its side, moving around it.

"Now Mud Shot!"

Omanyte's face emerged right before several balls of the caked mud shot forward which struck Nidoran. The poison type cried out in pain and fell to the ground, knocked out. Brock nodded.

"Nidoran is unable to battle, Omanyte is the winner!"

Forrest smiled.

"Good job, Omanyte."

The rock and water type chirped happily. Dakota recalled Nidoran to his Poké Ball.

"Good try, Nidoran."

Rockruff whined lightly, eyes fixed with sadness on the Poké Ball.

Jason sighed at this. Snivy turned to him.

"Sni?"

"Forrest used a good move there. Omanyte had moved too quickly and got too close to Nidoran when Dakota called out the attack. Forrest had utilized the momentum Omanyte had with the Rollout to take another position and fired a super effective attack. Now each of them have one Pokémon left, and we know who Dakota will use…and Omanyte has the type advantage."

Casey was still quiet, watching the boy as he knelt down beside Rockruff. He gently rested a hand on Rockruff's back.

"Ready, Rockruff?"

The rock type's eyes fixed with focus and determination before he nodded.

"Ruff!"

Rockruff then jumped onto the battleground, growling. Forrest smiled.

"Rock type versus Rock Type, that's what I'm talking about. Omantye, use Rollout!"

Omanyte pulled back into its shell then rolled forward at Rockruff.

"Rockruff use Growl!"

Rockruff let out a growl which distorted the air around it as it surged toward Omanyte.

"Move around it!"

"Use Rock Throw as it turns!"

Rockruff's mane glowed as he howled, rocks manifesting around his tail as they fired at his opponent. Omanyte had turned as the attack had been fired, which struck the ground right by it and sent it flying back.

"Rockruff, use Tackle!"

Rockruff charged forward, barking.

"Omanyte use Withdraw!"

As Omanyte centered itself on the ground, it quickly drew back into its shell right before it flashed with red lights and just a few feet away from the charging Rockruff. Rockruff struck Omanyte though it whined in surprise and pain, being knocked back from the shell's enhanced defense.

"Rockruff!"

Jason's eyes widened slightly in surprise at hearing the concern and possibly fear in Dakota's voice. His gaze then returned to what it was before.

"Rockruff, are you ok?!"

Rockruff shook his head a little then turned to him with an affirmative bark. Dakota nodded.

"Ok, use Rock Throw!"

"Rrrrooo!"

Rockruff's mane glowed again as rocks fired from around the space surrounding his tail. Forrest frowned slightly.

"Omanyte, use Water Gun!"

Omanyte's face emerged from his shell and fired a stream of water which managed to surge through the rocks.

"Dodge it and use Growl!"

Rockruff leapt clear of the water then let out another growl which surged toward Omanyte as it distorted the air around it before it struck the Pokémon. A wave of color washed down over the rock and water type. Forrest grumbled at this.

"Ok, use Rollout!"

Omanyte moved back into its shell then rolled towards Rockruff.

"Jump forward and use Growl again!"

"Wait, what?!"

Rockruff jumped forward and fired the attack again, hitting Omanyte as it moved to clear the distance with the same effect though Omanyte visibly slowed down though not to a very significant degree.

"Now use Tackle!"

Rockruff charged forward, meeting Omanyte head on. This time, Omanyte was the one sent flying back. The rock and water type cried out in surprise and pain, hitting a large rock behind it before falling to the ground.

Jason gasped a little at this before settling into a smile.

"Why am I not surprised?"

Casey's eyebrows raised up in surprise at the turn in the battle.

"Huh, well I'll be."

"Rockruff, use Rock Throw!"

"Rrrrroooo!"

Omanyte was peppered by the rocks, eyes winced in pain. Forrest gritted his teeth.

"Use Withdraw!"

Omanyte quickly withdrew into its shell which flashed with red lights. Soon the rest of the rocks struck which now didn't appear to literally rock it as much as before. Dakota frowned slightly.

"Get in close, Rockruff!"

Rockruff rushed forward, clearing the distance quickly.

"Omanyte use Water Gun, quick!"

"Dodge Rockruff!"

Rockruff started to jump,but Omanyte quickly fired its attack. The stream of water struck the bottom half of the rock type and began to fly back.

"Rockruff, use Growl!"

Rockruff's wincing shifted to focus and fired the attack, striking Omanyte as it continued to fire the water type attack. As the same effect occurred, Rockruff felt the pain from the attack weaken as the water's volume lessened. Soon Rockruff fell onto the ground, the former weight of the attack having sent him across the battleground.

Rockruff panted, its body heaving a little as he glared at Omanyte. The rock and water type panted as well while staring back. Both Dakota and Forrest felt sweat on their foreheads as they gritted their teeth, watching the Pokémon glaring at one another.

Both Pokémon winced from the pain despite glaring at one another.

"Omanyte, use Withdraw!"

Omanyte made to move back into its shell.

"Rockruff, use Rock Throw!"

Rockruff howled as his mane glowed and rocks fired out at his opponent, which caused Omanyte's eyes to widen before the rocks struck it. A cloud rose up, hiding Omanyte and while it billowed in the air everyone watched and waited. Once the cloud receded, it revealed Omanyte had been knocked out. Brock gasped a little then nodded.

"Omanyte is unable to battle, Rockruff is the winner! The victory goes to Dakota Mahina!"

Rockruff barked excitedly and ran over to then jumped into Dakota's arms. The rock type rubbed very quickly up against the boy, earning a warm smile from him. The boy gently rubbed his head.

"Thanks, Rockruff."

"Ruff!"

The rock type's tail wagged.

Forrest recalled Omanyte into its Poké Ball.

"Thanks, Omanyte. You did great."

Forrest then walked over to Dakota, holding the gym's badge out in one hand.

"Here you go, Dakota. You earned this."

"My team and I earned it."

Brock smiled at hearing this, nodding.

Dakota then took the badge from Forrest then placed it in his gym badge case before putting it into his backpack. Brock walked over to them.

"Congrats, Dakota. Your team fought well."

"Thanks."

"I gotta admit, part of me thought you'd jump up and down in excitement over your victory."

Dakota's face shifted with a little mix of surprise and confusion.

"I guess I just wanted to just take a breath and be grateful for this moment. Why do you ask?"

Brock chuckled.

"I'll tell you another time."

"...Ok…"

Dakota had this sense he thought he might know what Brock was talking about though he didn't want to press the question.

Brock chuckled.

"Maybe you're back in Pewter City, maybe you and I could have a battle."

"Really?"

"Sure, I'll just have to make sure to get some more practice in with my Pokémon. It hasn't been too long, though not as much as it used to be."

"Maybe I can help with that."

Those on the ground looked up where Jason was, a confident smile on his face.

"How about you and I have a battle?"

Brock raised an eyebrow at this at first then he smiled.

"Sure, why not?"

After a few minutes, Dakota had changed places with Jason (Snivy standing next to him) and Brock had changed places with Forrest. Brock smiled, arms crossed.

"Since you're from Hoenn, how about a Double Battle? I haven't done one of those in awhile, it might help get things back into shape."

"Ok. I have one condition."

"Sure, what is it?"

"Just normal battling, no Mega Evolution since I can see that stone around your neck along with no Z-Moves, or Gigantamax."

Brock raised an eyebrow at this.

"Well there's only the Mega Evolution with me and my team. I accept though, if admittedly a little disappointed, but I have no problems. Maybe next time."

"Ok, do you have your two Pokémon ready?"

Brock smiled and tossed out two Poké Balls, from one each emerged a Steelix and the other a Toxicroak.

"Uuuhhmmmirrrrrr!"

"Toxi."

Jason smiled.

"Let's go!"

He tossed out two Poké Balls as well, from one emerged Swampert and the other emerged Flygon.

"Swampert!"

Flygon growled happily.

Brock smiled at this.

"Swampert and Flygon, an interesting combo."

"The same could be said for Steelix and Toxicroak."

"Alright, let's do this."

Forrest nodded at this.

"You know the rules, the first trainer's Pokémon to knock out both of their opponent's will win the battle. Begin!"

Jason's shifted with focus,

"Swampert use Rock Smash!"

"Swaaaaaampert!"

One of Swampert's fists slammed into the ground below, cracking it all the way towards Steelix and Toxicroak as rocks flew into the air from the force of the attack..

"Steelix, Toxicroak dodge it!"

Both of the Pokémon rushed to the side. Jason smiled.

"Flygon, use Flamethrower on Steelix! Swampert use Ice Beam on Toxicroak!"

Flygon opened her mouth and a stream of fire raced towards Steelix while Swampert's mouth opened his mouth which within a light blue ball of energy formed before it shot zig zagging beams of this energy towards Toxicroak.

Brock chuckled.

"Steelix use Gyro Ball Counter Shield! Toxicroak use Sludge Bomb!"

Some of the spikes on Steelix's body glowed a bright blue before it began spinning with the light shining to make a circle around it. Flygon's Flamethrower struck harmlessly against Steelix, the fire being moved around and away from the move.

Toxicroak opened his mouth and fired brown globs of sludge forward which collided with Swampert's attack. The globs were frozen though the ice type attack.

"Steelix use Dragon Breath on Flygon! Toxicroak use Brick Break on Swampert!"

Steelix bellowed as a large surge of swirling green and yellow at Flygon while Toxicroak leapt toward Swampert, one arm raised up. Jason smiled.

"Flygon counter with Flamethrower! Swampert use Hammer Arm on Toxicroak!"

Flygon growled as another stream of fire surged from her mouth and towards Steelix's Dragon Breath. Swampert's right arm glowed white as he swung it at Toxicroak who quickly swung his attack down, light stream from their collided attacks. The Dragon Breath and Flamethrower collided and struggled against one another before the former overpowered the latter and struck Flygon.

Flygon cried out in pain as she fell back onto the ground. Swampert gasped at this and looked to Jason, who shared his expression and nodded.

"Use Ice Beam, quick!"

Swampert turned his head and readied to fire the ice type attack at Toxicroak.

"Toxicroak jump away and use Sludge Bomb!"

"Toxi!"

Toxicroak leapt back and fired more of the brown globs of sludge at Swampert though the Ice Beam did fire off at the same time, freezing the poison type attack in midair.

"Steelix! Toxicroak! Use Dragon Breath and Sludge Bomb on Swampert!"

Steelix roared as he unleashed the dragon type attack again while Toxicroak fired the poison type attack, both surging towards Swampert.

"Swampert, use Protect!"

"Swampert!"

A green spherical energy shield surrounded Swampert and Flygon, who Swampert moved to stand in front of before using the move. Both offensive moves hit the shield though the defensive move held before receding aftering the offensive moves ended.

"Steelix use Iron Tail! Toxicroak use Poison Jab!"

Steelix's tail glowed with a metallic glint and the claw on Toxicroak's right hand glowed purple before both rushed at Swampert.

"Flygon, you have to get in the air!"

Flygon looked from him to Swampert, who motioned for her to fly. Brock gasped.

"Steelix! Toxicroak! Hurry!"

Flygon managed to get in the air.

"Flygon! Use Flamethrower in the space between Swampert and your opponents."

Flygon snarled as another stream of flames raced from her mouth to the ground below. Steelix and Toxicroak had gotten within a few feet from Steelix when the fire type move blocked their path, causing them to halt.

"Swampert! Earthquake!"

"Swaaaaaaammpert!"

Swampert jumped into the air and then fell onto the ground. As he did, the ground shook violently as white shockwaves emerged from the ground and raced at Steelix and Toxicroak.

"Dodge you two!"

Despite this call, both Steelix and Toxicroak had gotten too close and the ground type attack hit. Both Pokémon growled in pain and shock.

On the concourse, Casey flinched as she gripped the metal rail in front of her.

"T-T-T-This i-s-s-s n-n-no-o-ot c-c-co-o-ol!"

Dakota had Rockruff jump into one arm as he held onto the rail with the other. He gritted his teeth as he tried to keep his balance. Forrest gasped as she tried to keep his balance while Brock, Jason, and Snivy also struggled to hold their ground.

Soon the move had finished while Flygon flew down to stand beside Swampert, smiling and warmly grunting at him. Swampert smiled slightly and nodded.

"Swampert."

Brock looked to see both Steelix and Toxicroak struggling on the ground.

"Steelix! Toxicroak! Are you two ok?"

A few moments after this, both Steelix and Toxicroak grunted as they slowly picked themselves back up.

"Ok then. Steelix use Stone Edge on Flygon! Toxicroak use Poison Jab on Swampert!"

Steelix let out a roar that was a mix of anger, determination, and pain as stones swirled around its body before they fired at Flygon. Toxicroak rushed forward, his right claw glowed purple as he lunged at Swampert!

"Both of you dodge!"

Flygon flew into the air, the rocks flying beneath her though some nearly grazed her underbelly. Swampert managed to slide to the side as Toxicroak's Poison Jab narrowly missed his head.

"Steelix use Dragon Breath on Flygon! Toxicroak use Close Combat on Swampert!"

Steelix bellowed as he fired the dragon type attack at Flygon, who moved to dodge. Toxicroak's eyes flashed red before he lunged at Swampert. One claw landed against Swampert's chest before the next struck Swampert's chin.

"Swampert!"

Jason gasped then gritted his teeth.

"Flygon use Flamethrower on Steelix! Swampert fight back with Hammer Arm!"

Flygon evaded the next strike from Dragon Breath before fire raced from her mouth and struck against Steelix's body halfway between the head and tip of the tail. Steelix growled in pain, the Dragon Breath instantly ending.

"Swampert!"

Swampert's arms glowed bright as he began swinging at Toxicroak. With one strike surging downwards, the Hammer Arm struck Toxicroak's back as the poison and fighting type had moved to take a twist diagonally while aiming a punch at Swampert's lower torso.

"Toxi!"

Toxicroak growled in pain from the force of the blow, knocking him into the ground and causing it to crack around it.

Flygon slowly lowered herself to the ground though flew softly in place in front of Steelix.

Brock felt sweat slither down his forehead at this, wincing. Jason panted a little, he also felt himself sweat.

Steelix and Toxicroak groaned as they picked themselves back up.

"Steelix use Iron Tail on Flygon!"

Steelix's eyes shot wide as it roared, its tail glowed with a metallic glint which struck Flygon. The attack sent her flying back and landed next to Swampert.

"Swam?! Swampert!"

Jason gasped then spoke under his breath.

"Steelix's faster than I thought."

"Toxicroak move away! Steelix use Dragon Breath!"

Toxicroak pulled himself away, sliding towards a large rock while Steelix fired the dragon type attack that surged at Swampert and Flygon.

Swampert moved in front of Flygon, Jason's eyes focused on this.

"Swampert! Use Protect!"

The green energy shield rose up around Swampert and Flygon, once again defending successfully against the offensive attack.

Brock nodded a little at this.

"Powerful defense."

The move finished as Swampert moved to take up as much space between Flygon and their opponents.

"Swampert! Use Rock Smash again!"

"Swaaampert!"

Swampert struck the ground below with one hand, a large crack racing across the ground towards Steelix while rocks flew up from the crack. This time they hit Toxicroak who had stood up moments before, sending him skidding back. Brock gasped then gritted his teeth.

"Steelix! Dodge it and use Iron Tail on Swampert!"

Steelix rushed forward, managing to stay clear of the rocks as its tail glowed with a metallic glint.

"Swampert! Block with Hammer Arm!"

Swampert's right arm glowed and collided with Steelix's Iron Tail as the latter swung it down against its opponent. White light shot out from the collision.

"Toxicroak! Use Poison Jab on Swampert!"

Toxicroak grunted as he leapt rock to rock before lunging forward, his right claw glowing purple.

Jason focused on this.

"Flygon! Use Dragon Pulse on Toxicroak! Now!"

Flygon moved her head around from Swampert's side. A multicolored burst of racing energy in draconic form flew at Toxicroak. The attack hit and sent Toxicroak flying back, growling in pain and surprise. Steelix gritted its teeth as did Swampert, both struggling to overpower one another.

Forrest turned to see Toxicroak had been knocked out and saw Flygon had dropped to the ground after the attack. She wasn't knocked out, but she was panting heavily.

"Toxicroak is unable to battle!"

Brock frowned lightly while Jason focused on Swampert.

"Swampert! Use Hydro Cannon!"

Swampert opened his mouth, a spherical form of streaming water that began to glow with a blue area. Flygon moved out from around Swampert.

"Flygon! Use Flamethrower!"

Brock gasped then frowned.

"Steelix use Dragon Breath! Quick!"

Steelix opened its mouth, the dragon type attack surging towards Flygon whose eyes widened in surprise as she hadn't managed to unleash the fire type attack. The hit knocked Flygon to the ground, knocked out. Swampert gasped at this. Forrest nodded.

"Flygon is unable to battle!"

Jason gasped then gritted his teeth.

"Swampert! Grab Steelix's tail with your other hand!"

Swampert did this without hesitation.

"Steelix! Use Stone Edge, quick!"

Steelix's tail stopped glowing as rocks swirled around it and shot at Swampert. The water and ground type gritted its teeth as the rock type attack bombarded its body. Jason frowned a little.

"Use Hydro Cannon now!"

The water in Swampert's mouth had now taken up nearly all the space there which churned and glowed brightly. The water type move fired forwards towards Steelix's face.

"Steelix! Use Dragon Breath!"

The dragon type attack quickly fired from its mouth and collided with the water type move. They struggled against one another for a moment before the Hydro Cannon managed to overpower Dragon Breath and hit Steelix's face.

Brock gasped.

"Steelix!"

Steelix dropped to the ground, knocked out.

Forrest gasped at this then nodded after a moment.

"Both Steelix and Toxicroak are unable to battle! Swampert and Flygon are the winners! The victor is Jason Sorenson!"

Jason sighed in relief, his chest still heaving from the excitement of the battle. He then walked over to Swampert and Flygon, both who turned to him. He placed a hand under the chins each.

"Good job, guys."

They smiled and nodded.

Brock approached Steelix and Toxicroak, who moved over to him after picking themselves back up.

"You guys did great."

Brock approached Jason, who stood up.

"That was a great battle. I can see why you were once Hoenn's champion."

Jason smiled, his chest still heaving a little.

"And you were certainly once this gym's Gym Leader."

They smiled and shook hands.

Dakota, Rockruff, and Casey made their way down to the ground. Brock smiled.

"Hey, since you guys are here, why don't you join us for lunch? I think I might need to remake it now with all that's happened."

Casey smiled.

"Sounds good to me."

Jason turned to Dakota, grinning.

"Maybe you could help him make it?"

Brock turned to Dakota, smiling.

"Sounds interesting. Will you?"

Dakota's eyes widened slightly before turning to Rockruff, who smiled and nodded. He then turned to Brock, a little smile on his face.

"Sure."

"Great. Let's see what we can make."

"Is your family all here?"

"No, unfortunately, they're on vacation right now. Still, we can make something."

"Ok."

"Alright, let's get cooking."

The group headed into the back, going to celebrate Dakota and his team's victory, catch up and talk with friends old and new.

To be continued…

(I hope you all enjoyed the update!)