Omarnosian10: Man, the first month of the New Year is almost over and I barely scraped the chapter together.
Ash: Not to mention how it's been over a year since you've updated the story.
Omarnosian10: True, but with the announcements of Pokémon Legends Z-A, I've been inspired to update this story more.
Darwin: Didn't you also say that the Gym battles would've slowed you down?
Omarnosian10: Yeah, you'll find out how the 'Hard Mode' goes for Ash soon. ON WITH THE SHOW!
Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon. If I did, it would've given Ash a sensible harem, done Unova better (like anyone would), or done a lot of other stuff. All descriptions of Pokémon and most of their moves belong to Bulbapedia. A portion of this chapter before being edited by me belonged to 19jchoi's Unova Journeys.
"Normal"
'Thought'
"Communicating through a medium"
"Possessed"
"Telepathy"
Flashback or Dream
"[Poké-Speech]"
Chapter 15: Battle of the Nacrene Gym!
(Nacrene Museum, Before Noon)
"Lenora?"
"Yes, Ash?" After having breakfast, the gang returned to the Museum where the curators stood with Hawes limping because of his punishment (when Darwin tried to ask what it was, the girls shouted "WHEN YOU'RE OLDER!"). Soon, the curators began showing the gang around the place when Ash sprung the question.
"I'm kind of wondering where the battlefield is?" asked Ash, looking around.
"It can't be on top of the place because Yamask tried searching there," noted May, her new Yamask hovering beside her and nodding.
"Plus… It doesn't seem like it would be in here…" pointed Cilan.
"You're right, May, and don't worry. You'll see soon enough!" smirked Lenora. Soon, her husband scanned his handprint on a security panel. Once it finished, the door began to slide open, exposing…
"We're entering an area that is closed to the general public!" explained Hawes. The gang blinked in amazement while heading inside.
"This part of the library is reserved for rare books and study materials. You need special permission from us to enter here!" explained Lenora.
"This is the finest collection of the Unova region! You can learn everything about Unova's history and culture right here!" explained Hawes. Darwin groaned at that.
"Incredible! You even got books about Pokémon Connoisseurs!" exclaimed Cilan, checking out a bookshelf's contents.
"That's because the Unova region is where Pokémon Connoisseurs got their start! Are you interested in it?" asked Lenora.
"Of course! I am on this journey as a Pokémon Connoisseur to meet all kinds of Pokémon and Trainers as much as I can!" explained Cilan.
"Well, well! (chuckles) There's nothing better than lots of experience, so best of luck!" assured Lenora.
"Thanks!"
"Hey Lenora, why are these shelves empty?" called Dawn, pointing at them. Sighing, Lenora went to her.
"There were supposed to be books about the relations Unova has with other regions, but they're hard to come by since they were either destroyed by 'purists' or hoarded by foreigners." frowned Lenora.
"Racists." scowled Georgia.
"Not arguing with that. What I had collected remains in tight security given that there are people in and out of the region that would love to see the connection severed." nodded Lenora.
"Speaking of racist… did you battle someone by the name of Trip?" asked Dawn, wanting another opinion.
"Dirty Blonde, male, use a camera? (Dawn nods) Yeah, his Frillish and Timburr gave me quite the trouble." sighed Lenora. Given her Type specialty, it makes sense.
"Ash battled him a few days ago and won," commented Georgia, smirking at the memory.
"Given what he has accomplished, I'm not surprised." nodded Lenora.
"So if someone wears a mask like yours, they'll be possessed?" asked May to Yamask after reading a book on the species.
"[That's right.]"
"…You wouldn't do that to me, would you?" added May nervously. Alarmed, Yamask rapidly shook her head and hugged her Trainer. Relieved at the silent 'no', May hugged back.
"Alright, Ash! I would think that you would want to study up the Unova region before our battle!" reminded Lenora.
"Su—Wait, what about Darwin?" blinked Ash. Looking around, they see him by a bookshelf, slightly pulling its contents.
"Legends… Emblems… Narrative… Occult… Romance… Allegory… ******, wrong code!" swore Darwin, pushing the books back.
"You think the Gym's entrance is hidden by code?" blinked Cilan.
"He thought the same thing back in Striaton." sighed May.
"…Wait, is that why he kept the menu back then?" realized Cilan. The foreigners nod.
"Is the 'code' he's searching for by acronym?" blinked Hawes.
"Even if I did put a code in, I wouldn't use my own name." frowned Lenora; she isn't that vain. Sadly, Darwin didn't hear her.
"Maybe if I swap Legends for Love… nothing. Wait, what's er—"
"WHEN YOU'RE OLDER!" Georgia rushed to her brother, covering the genre.
"Uh, what book would you recommend for me to read?" asked Ash nervously. Wanting to save a challenger's innocent mind, Lenora walked to a different bookshelf and knocked on her recommendation. Seeing Darwin try to look over his sister, Ash rushed over and pulled it… only for the shelf to rise and reveal an underground staircase.
"You found the code to the battlefield?" blinked Darwin, coming over. Georgia quickly followed, sighing in relief.
"I only pulled one book first," answered Ash.
"Oh come on!"
"Tell me, dear. Don't you think that this challenger is quite imaginative?" asked Hawes.
"I sure do! (clears throat) You see, I've been testing the two of you boys, right when you boys stepped in here!" explained Lenora.
"I ****ing knew it!" shouted Darwin.
"None of that language in this place, young man!" glared Lenora before Georgia could do her 'bit'.
"Why? There're no kids here." blinked Darwin. Before Lenora could say any more, Georgia whispered the explanation into her ear. Afterward, the female Gym Leader rubbed her temples.
"Just… control your language. (clears throat, looking at other bookshelves) Anyway! You see, for most challengers, when I recommend that they read a book, nine times out of ten, they go directly to a book to what they're most interested in!" explained Lenora.
"Wow… From all of these?" awed Dawn.
"That's correct! However… (chuckles) I think Darwin's the first challenger I've had that figured out the way to the Gym… although not the location," noted Lenora.
"I would've found the right book eventually…" grumbled Darwin.
"If you weren't so impatient, I would've shown you it." shook Lenora.
"But, why do that?" asked Cilan.
"Because most of my challengers can get too sidetracked by reading too much of what I say! So, to rush into the Gym, they usually choose books they're interested in! Or thin books so that they can finish quickly!" explained Lenora.
"So instead of a lever… most challengers think that they need to read a book and, what, answer a quiz to prove they read the whole thing?" asked May.
"Funnily enough, we have yearly competitions for free food with different sponsors." nodded Lenora. The 'free food' intrigued May.
"When's the next—"
"In two months. (May snaps fingers) Back on topic, in this case, I can generally tell what a trainer will be like on how they react in this kind of situation!" explained Lenora. Hawes nodded along.
"So, what kind of trainers do you think Ash and Darwin are?" asked Georgia, holding onto the two boys' shoulders.
"What you see is what you get! While Ash shook with aggression as soon as I challenged him, it's tempered with his years of experience. Darwin, on the other hand, while intelligent no doubt given that he seemed more interested in electronics and such, is also not very good at gauging his opponents, thinking my test was harder than it was. And now, I am more curious to observe how that experience and intelligence will help the two boys when we get to the battlefield!" concluded Lenora.
"I think it will be effortless to predict!" assured Hawes. While Ash took the comment in stride, Darwin glared at the curators.
"I'll show you predictable!" scowled Darwin.
"Ha… Fine! Just wait and see! Check us out on all you want! I'm really stoked about this!" grinned Ash, determined.
"[Me, too!]" Lenora only smiled at their confidence.
"I like both of your spirits, boys. Let's go!"
(Underground battlefield)
"Alright now! Here it is! This is our battlefield!" Once Lenora turned on the lights, the gang was greeted with a basic battlefield; fitting with her Type. Nonetheless, everyone looked around, amazed… except for Darwin, who rushed to the middle, pumping his fists.
"Yeah, yeah, the place looks cool! Now hurry up so I can give Lenora a beatdown!" demanded Darwin, punching his palm. Lenora chuckled with a sigh as she walked over with an embarrassed smile.
"Let's take a deep breath! You're quite the aggressive one, aren't you? Perhaps you and Ash should research what kind of Gym Leader I am! Like what Pokémon I'm going to be using for your battle! (takes out one Poké Ball) If it wasn't for your help last night, I might've had to use this guy to settle stuff with Yamask." explained Lenora, bringing out—
"A Watchog?!" glared Darwin, remembering his second day as a Trainer.
"I take it you've seen one before? (Darwin nods) Well, then you'll be in for a surprise with this!" grinned Lenora, taking out another Poké Ball and bringing out—
"Another Lillipup?!" awed Dawn, watching him go and rub his head against Ash's feet.
"Oh yeah, I think Hawes said something about you having the whole evolution line," remembered Georgia.
"That's true, but given that this is Darwin's second Gym battle, I will only be using my two Badge team." nodded Lenora.
"Pure Normal-Types… This should be a cinch." chuckled Darwin.
"Wait, you said you're gonna use them for Darwin's Gym battle. What about mine?" blinked Ash after rubbing Lillipup's head.
"Given what you've accomplished, I believe I should up the difficulty and use my four Badge team. (takes out four Great Balls) Such as these boys and girls!" shouted Lenora, bringing them out.
"[Nice to meet you!]" waved the female Audino. Ash could tell this one is much more powerful than Nurse Joy's and Sayo's.
"[Is it feeding time yet?]" Flapping his wings onto the ground is a small avian Pokémon with a blue body. A large white plume of feathers covers his head and three tail feathers extend from his lower back. The feathery ruff extends down past his neck, covering the upper third of his body. His face is blue with five pointed tips, resembling a mask and crown in contrast to the white feathers surrounding it. Extending from his forehead is a large feather, which is red on the lower half and white on the upper half. The split between the two colors on the feather resembles a zigzag pattern. Rufflet's beak is short and wide, with large eyes on either side. Each eye has a thick black iris with a small white pupil. His yellow legs and feet are large in comparison to his body. Each foot has four digits: one backward, and three forwards.
"[It is always food with you, isn't it?]" Shaking her head at the avian's behavior is a furry, gray, chinchilla-like Pokémon. She has large ears located to the sides of her head, with red insides partly covered by tufts of fur. Her eyes are large and brown, with a small, rounded nose. Her limbs are somewhat rounded and small, and her tail is long, fluffy, and incredibly white. She also has two large long fluffs on her head that wrap around her back.
"[What is you command, Mistress Lenora?!]" bowed a male Sawsbuck.
"Whoa…" Amazed at the new Pokémon, Ash used his Pokédex.
Rufflet, the Eaglet Pokémon. Rufflet's talons are powerful, able to crack open even the toughest Berries. It often challenges stronger opponents to battle.
Cinccino, the Scarf Pokémon, and the evolved form of Minccino. Cinccino defends against its opponent's attacks using its specially coated white fur.
"What?! You mean that's the kleptomaniac's evolved form?!" pointed Darwin.
"[Hmph! I am no maniac of any kind, good sir!]" huffed Cinccino.
"Normal-Type Pokémon, even non-pure ones, are perfect types of Pokémon in Gym battles because they have very few limitations of Moves that are bound to a certain element! This allows me to use the flexibility to respond to any strategies challengers may use against me!" explained Lenora.
"I've battled Normal-Type Gym Leaders before, I know how this works." nodded Ash, thinking of Whitney and May's dad. Hopefully, he won't need another rematch.
"Showing what Pokémon Lenora is going to use before the battle… What a delightful fragrance! The scent of confidence! A Gym Leader who possesses the combination of testing her challengers first, and then using Normal-Type Pokémon who has few limitations at all! A perfect battle recipe!" declared Cilan.
"I'm so pleased to hear you say that, Connoisseur Boy! That's precisely just the type of battle that I love! (returns Great Ball Pokémon) Now, Hawes… If you would please explain the rules…" requested Lenora. She and Darwin went to opposite sides of the field.
"Of course, dear! (heads to referee box) Alright then! The Nacrene City Gym battle between Darwin, the challenger, and Lenora, the Gym Leader will begin by each selecting two of their Pokémon! And when either the Gym Leader or challenger's Pokémon are left unable to battle, the battle will be decided! In addition, both Pokémon can be freely substituted at any time!" explained Hawes.
"Wait, the Gym Leader can substitute too?" blinked Ash, the gang heading to the sidelines.
"You can see that each, and every Gym has its own unique rules! Reflecting the Gym Leader's unique ways of bringing out the best of their challengers!" explained Cilan.
"I've already decided on who to choose first! I choose Lillipup!" declared Lenora. At her word, the canine rushed to her side, barking at Darwin.
"Lillipup, huh…" hummed Darwin, hovering a hand over his Poké Balls. Tepig would be the best choice since she's the most experienced while Blitzle's the fastest. However, to show off… "Let's Go, Lillipup!"
"Huh?" The gang blinked. Their ears didn't deceive them, given that two canines were now present.
"[I will not let you down again, Master Darwin!]"
(A/N: "L—" is for Lenora's, "D—" is for Darwin's)
"A mirror match?! This will be quite an interesting battle!" chuckled Cilan.
"Did you or your brothers ever have one?" asked Georgia.
"Only a handful." shrugged Cilan.
"Fighting fire with fire? Quite an interesting choice." smiled Lenora.
"Let the battle begin!"
Lenora: Lillipup + 1 VS Darwin: Lillipup + 1
"Funny you should mention that. Lillipup, start with Fire Fang!" waved Darwin.
"[I'll show you the better Lillipup, Master Darwin!]" Conjuring flames shaped like a steel trap over his face, D—Lillipup charged at his opponent, intent on—
"Alright Lillipup, use Roar!" The next thing the challengers knew, L—Lillipup gained a white aura before howling, releasing invisible shock waves from his mouth that expanded outwarded, almost knocking D—Lilipup away if he wasn't suddenly returned to his Poké Ball, another Pokémon taking his place.
"[What's sha… king?]" blinked Blitzle, looking around.
"Excellent Move…" commented Cilan. The others nodded.
"WHAT?!"
"Hm-hm-hm… So, I assume that you have never had Roar used against you, have you? You see, Roar is a Status Move that will force one's opponent to switch out their Pokémon!" explained Lenora.
"Note to self: Catch a Grass-Type that knows Ingrain so this doesn't happen again," muttered Darwin to his camera.
"In that case, I'll switch my Pokémon, too! (returns L—Lillipup) Watchog, it's your turn now! Come on out!" called Lenora, bringing out her evolved Pokémon.
"[So this is my challenger?]" glared Watchog.
"Grrr… If I swap Blitzle out, she'll do the same thing again. Sorry, Blitzle, it looks like your gym debut's earlier than planned," noted Darwin.
"[It's alright, dawg!]" shrugged the Electric-Type.
Lenora: Watchog + 1 VS Darwin: Blitzle + 1
"Good to know you're not gonna make this a song-and-dance. Still, in case you change your mind later… Mean Look, let's go!" shouted Lenora.
"[No backing out!]" Watchog closes his eyes and his body becomes surrounded by a dark white, almost grey aura. He then opens his eyes and they glow bright red. The aura then rises into the air and forms an eye with a black pupil. The eye then becomes surrounded by a magenta aura, and multiple smaller eyes with a magenta outline appear around Watchog and spread throughout the battlefield.
"[D—Did I walk into a horror show?!]" stuttered Blitzle while stepping back, unaware of his body being surrounded by a magenta aura.
"****it!"
"Do I need to give you an explanation of what Mean Look does?" smirked Lenora.
"I'm not an idiot… I know that stops me from swapping the active Pokémon." snarled Darwin.
"I've never seen that combination before!" admitted Cilan. And considering he's a Gym Leader and the oldest of the group, that's saying something.
"I guess we can consider Darwin lucky that it was Blitzle and not Purrloin." sighed Georgia.
"Yeah, Watchog can learn Revenge," remembered Ash for May, Dawn, and Cilan.
"You're not the only one that can use Status Moves! Blitzle, fire a Thunder Wave!" waved Darwin.
"[Prepare for some crack—a—lackin'!]" Mane sparking, Blitzle fired electric rings from it toward Watchog.
"Nice! Watchog'll be Paralyzed even if he does go back to his Poké Ball." smiled May.
"Good choice, but not good enough! Watchog, Iron Tail!" smirked Lenora.
"[Pathetic!]" Scoffing, Watchog plunged his shimmering tail into the ground before it turned to steel. Folding his arms, the Normal Type let the electric rings strike and wash over him. Unknown to Darwin, the electricity went to the metal appendage and ended at the ground.
"He's Paralyzed! Now, Blitzle, get in with Quick Attack!" waved Darwin.
"[You're in for a rush!]" Laughing, Blitzle coats his body in white energy before zooming toward Watchog.
"Use Low Kick!" Narrowing his eyes and dismissing Iron Tail, Watchog ducked under the Quick Attack before swinging a dark red aura-covered leg at Blitzle, tripping the Electric-Type and having him crash onto a wall.
"Blitzle! (dust reveals bruised Electric-Type) Sonuva— Shouldn't Watchog be Paralyzed?!" growled Darwin, seeing a lack of electricity on the Normal-Type's body.
"Ash, did you see that?" narrowed May.
"Yeah. (nods) She used the same grounding strategy Winona used back then." frowned Ash.
"Winona?" echoed Georgia.
"A Flying-Type Gym Leader in my home region; she has a Pelipper that used Steel Wing to ground Pikachu's Thunderbolts in Ash's Gym battle with her," answered May.
"And going by the present scenario, it seems that Iron Tail works as well in that strategy." frowned Cilan. Shaking the pain off, Blitzle came down from the wall.
"OK Blitzle, let's get up close and personal with your new Move; Flame Charge!" punched Darwin.
"[It's crack—a—lackin' time!]" Blitzle stands up on his hind legs and slams them into the ground, causing a large cloud of dirt and dust to kick up and cover his body. His body then becomes surrounded by an orb of red and yellow flames and he charges at Watchog.
"Stop him in his tracks with Hypnosis!" waved Lenora.
"[Hehe…]" Smirking, Watchog's eyes glow dark pink.
"Oh, dear! If this works, Blitzle will be at Lenora's mercy!" gasped Cilan. As the Psychic waves were heading toward Blitzle, Darwin gritted his teeth.
"Man, I hope Ash is right about this… Blitzle, keep going forward and close your eyes!" ordered Darwin.
"What?!" blinked Lenora. Did she hear that wrong?
"[Going blind!]" Blitzle closed his eyes in the flames, feeling a mysterious pressure on his lids soon after. Resisting and keeping them closed, Blitzle felt his mane hit something. Crying out, he reared it up, launching what/whoever he hit skyward.
"[AAAAAHHHH!]" Watchog's scream filled Blitzle's ears.
"Nice work! Now open your eyes and let loose that Move Pikachu taught you!" punched Darwin.
"[One Thunderbolt coming right up!]" Opening his eyes and shifting them into a glare, Blitzle locked onto the falling Watchog. The Electric-Type's body began sparking with electricity before a bolt of lightning was released towards the Normal-Type.
"Watchog, Iron Tail when you land!" frowned Lenora. Watchog turned his tail to steel for less than a second before being struck with the Electric Move. Letting out a shout of pain, the Normal-Type got launched to a wall, eyes swirling.
"Watchog is unable to battle! Blitzle is the winner!"
Lenora: 1 VS Darwin: Blitzle + 1
"(chuckles) That's quite a gamble you took to counter Hypnosis!" smiled Lenora, returning Watchog.
"Your Watchog wasn't the first I met nor had suffered Hypnosis from," revealed Darwin, Blitzle coming to his side. He didn't bother returning the Electric-Type, figuring that Mean Look remains in effect until loss.
"Looks like I ended up being the predictable one this round. Too bad it won't stay the same for the next one. Come to my aide, Lillipup!" cried Lenora, bringing out her first/last Pokémon.
"[I'm ready!]"
Lenora: Lillipup VS Darwin: Blitzle + 1
"Winners first! Thunderbolt again!" punched Darwin.
"[Strike two, here I come!]" Nodding, Blitzle relaunched the Electric Move.
"Dodge it!" After the simple command, Lillipup dashed to the side, Thunderbolt missing.
"Whoa, that's faster than Darwin's Lillipup!" noted Ash.
"Use Bite!" ordered Lenora. Lillipup dashes at Blitzle, the Dark Move masking his face from the front.
"Do—" Darwin couldn't finish his command when Bite struck and exploded around Blitzle. Lillipup returns to his post.
"[Man, that hurts!]" The smoke cleared, revealing Blitzle wincing in pain.
"**— Strike back with Flame Charge!" waved Darwin. Nodding, Blitzle conjured flames around himself before rushing at Lillipup.
"Use Protect!" grinned Lenora. In the blink of an eye, a turquoise energy dome covered Lillipup, which Blitzle crashed into.
"***—"
"Bite while he's close!" waved Lenora.
"Get away—" Sadly, the distance was too small for Blitzle to evade. The last thing he remembered before going swirly-eyed was a large pair of Bite jaws performing their namesake on his side and launching him to his side of the field.
'Darwin… I'm sorry.'
"Blitzle is unable to battle! Lillipup is the winner!"
Lenora: Lillipup VS Darwin: Lillipup
"Man, Blitzle didn't stand a chance." winced Ash.
"And Lillipup didn't get hit once unless you count the block from Protect." frowned Georgia.
"Roar, Bite, Protect, and who knows what else? Darwin has his work cut out for him." nodded Cilan.
"Don't worry, Blitzle. (returns Electric-Type) You still beat her Watchog, so that's a win in my book. (swaps Poké Balls) Alright, Lillipup, show her who's the alpha!" declared Darwin, bringing out his other teammate.
"[Yes, Master Darwin!]" barked D—Lillipup.
"[So it's come down to this.]" glared L—Lillipup.
"Strike with Fire Fang!" punched Darwin. Firing out the Move, D—Lillipup rushed toward his opponent.
"Face those flames head-on with Take Down." snapped Lenora.
"[Yes, Boss Lady.]" Shrouding himself in Normal energy, L—Lillipup charged and met his challenger in the middle of the field, clashing. A small explosion of energy came out of the collision.
"Keep at it with Rock Smash!" punched Darwin.
"[Lillipup smash!]" Paws lit up with dark orange energy, D—Lillipup swatted at the other Normal-Type with them, sending it back.
"Huh, very few of my challengers with a Lillipup line had them learn that Move." hummed Lenora.
"It helped to have a teacher," commented Darwin, resisting the urge to glance at Ash.
"No arguments here. Bite!" waved Lenora. Growling, L—Lillipup conjured the Dark Move, rushing.
"Propel yourself with Rock Smash!" ordered Darwin.
"[Pro-what?]" tilted D—Lillipup. His lapse of confusion left him open for the Bite to dig into his side before launching him into a wall. Darwin flinched.
'Probably should've said jump instead.'
"For something thinking he's smart, you don't know your Pokémon very well, do you?" taunted Lenora.
"You don't know what you're talking about," growled Darwin.
"Oh really? Finish this with Take Down," ordered Lenora. Nodding, L—Lillipup rushed toward his foe, Normal energy shrouding him.
"Move out of the way!" chopped Darwin. D—Lillipup nods and squats… only to flinch and freeze. This left him vulnerable to Take Down, smashing him against the wall. Falling and leaving behind a crater, D—Lillipup slouched, eyes closed. After a few moments, Hawes raised his arm.
"Darwin's Liilipup is unable to—"
"[NO!]" Almost jumping, everyone looks back to see the weakened canine slowly get up.
"Lillipup…" awed Darwin.
"[Why won't you stay down?]" tilted L—Lillipup. His opponent glares in response.
"[I already failed Master once… and I made a promise for both our sakes that I will not fail him again!]" roared D—Lillipup, white energy coating his body. The energy soon gains a pink tint. With a roar of determination, he slams into L—Lillipup, a giant white heart rippling on impact. The latter stumbles back.
"Whoa, what was that?!" gawked Georgia. Equally surprised, Darwin checked his Pokédex.
"Return—Who came up with that name—A Normal-Type Move with power depending on… the friendship between Trainer and Pokémon?!" read Darwin.
"Sounds like the opposite of that Frustration Move Harley's Banette used." hummed Ash. May's heart skipped a beat at the name before she reprimanded herself; Ash doesn't know about what happened… and hopefully never will.
"Whoa, I'm impressed! Your Lillipup must really care for you to bring out that Move!" laughed Lenora.
"He and I may be different in personality… but that's what makes our bond stronger! Use Return again!" punched Darwin, determined.
"[Yes, Master Darwin!]" Yipping, D—Lillipup charged toward his opponent. Pink-tinted Normal energy glowed from his body.
"Counter with Take Down!" waved Lenora.
"[Yes, Mistress!]" Howling, L–Lillipup charged towards his opponent. Normal energy shrouds his body. The power of Take Down and Return clashed, then exploded. Winds and smoke were sent from the impact. Everyone yelped, covering themselves from it. When the smoke dispersed, it revealed both Lillipups panting, eyes lidded, while facing each other. To them, it's eerily like looking into a mirror. They kept this up, almost in sync… until one broke out.
'Nice… work… pup…'
"Lenora's Lillipup is unable to battle! Darwin's Lillipup wins! Which means the victory goes to Darwin Langley of Iccirus City!"
Winner: Darwin
"WOOHOO!" cheered Darwin. He then rushed at D—Lillipup, picking up and hugging him. The Normal-Type laughs, licking his Trainer's cheek.
"That was amazing!" smiled Ash.
"[True that.]" nodded Pikachu.
"That was beautiful." cried the girls, finding D—Lillipup's moment touching.
"What a splendid victory! A proud recipe for success!" smiled Cilan. Lenora returns her Lillipup, smiling at her challenger.
"For a rookie in a mirror match, you didn't do so bad, kid. (snaps fingers, beckoning Hawes over) As proof of your victory, I am happy to present you with the Basic Badge!" declared Lenora, Hawes taking out a Badge reminiscent of Trip's second. Smirking and bringing out Blitzle, Darwin took the Badge before presenting it to the camera.
"Behold, the second Gym Badge in my collection, with just as many of my Pokémon responsible for helping me get it. (points camera at Lillipup and Blitzle) With this, I am another step closer to entering the Unova League and achieving my dream!" narrated Darwin.
"Is that live?!" freaked Hawes.
"Of course not! Unlike some people, I double-check my stuff so nothing goes wrong! This is just a recording for my self-documentary." explained Darwin. Hawes winced at the jab.
"Now that I think about it… how were you gonna have your Watchog settle things with Yamask?" asked May curiously.
"That's easy; My Watchog has the Ability, Illuminate; it would've temporarily negated Yamask's invisibility," answered Lenora.
"I thought Illuminate just draws the attention of wild Pokémon." blinked Darwin. Lenora chuckles.
"Kid, you have a lot to learn about Abilities."
(Few minutes later)
"Go Ash, he's our champ! He can take you to camp! Go Ash!" After doing some minor preparations, the group came back to the repaired battlefield, with the girls cheerleading for Ash.
"Fans of yours?" grinned Lenora cheekily. Ash blushed.
"For the record, I had nothing to do with their cheerleading." waved Ash sheepishly.
'Oh, I wouldn't say that.' noted Lenora. With how long she and Hawes were together, she's capable of noticing how couples-to-be look.
"OK, I know you heard this earlier, but for official reason… (clears throat, stepping on referee box) The Nacrene City Gym battle between Ash, the challenger, and Lenora, the Gym Leader will begin by each selecting four of their Pokémon! And when either the Gym Leader or challenger's Pokémon are left unable to battle, the battle will be decided! In addition, only the challenger can substitute their Pokémon without Moves at any given time!" explained Hawes.
"You won't be subbing this time?" raised Ash.
"Nope. (shrugs) But don't think this battle will be easier than Darwin's! Remember, I'm not using the same Pokémon." reminded Lenora. Nodding, Ash thought carefully.
"Four on four… Pikachu, do you mind sitting this one out?" requested Ash.
"[Aw…]" sighed Pikachu before nodding and climbing down.
"Anyway, for this match, I'm going with Rufflet." grinned Lenora. The Normal/Flying-Type puffed his chest in pride before stepping forward.
"Tepig, I choose you!" declared Ash, bringing out his Fire-Type.
"[I won't let you down!]"
"A Fire-Type? If I started with Sawsbuck, you'd have the advantage," noted Lenora.
"I was planning on starting with Tepig the whole time, no matter which Pokémon you started with!" smirked Ash.
"Interesting." nodded Lenora.
"Let the battle begin!"
Lenora: Rufflet + 3 VS Ash: Tepig + 3
"Tepig, start with Flame Charge!" waved Ash, mentally thanking Don George for the training he and Darwin had.
"[Yes!]" Tepig repeatedly stomps on the ground until a cloud of dust covers his body. Then, he emerges from the cloud, covered in flames, and dashing towards Rufflet.
"Use Tailwind!" smirked Lenora.
"What?" blinked May, confused. Rufflet smirked before flying into the air and flapping his wings, unleashing massive winds on Lenora's side of the field. This didn't deter Tepig, who leaped into the air to strike at Rufflet… only for the Eaglet Pokémon to swerve in a blur. "Whoa, that was fast!"
"Thanks to Tailwind; it's a Flying-Type Move that temporarily doubles the speed of the user and their team, even when switched out," explained Cilan.
"Like Reflect?" compared May, remembering Ash's Gym Battle with Flannery. Cilan nods.
"A Move that lasts even after the Pokémon that uses it is defeated… Lenora's definitely stepping up her game," admitted Darwin begrudgingly.
"The surprises don't stop there. (snaps fingers) Rufflet, keep at it with Aerial Ace." ordered Lenora.
"[Yes!]" Nodding, Rufflet dives down at Tepig and flaps his wings once, sky-blue streaks of energy coming off them.
"Can't dodge that… meet it head-on with Rock Smash!" punched Ash. Nodding, Tepig jumps at Rufflet with his tail covered in dark orange energy. He then vertically flipped in the air and slammed the appendage against the Normal/Flying-Type. A small explosion of energy came from the collision before the Pokémon separated.
"Good thing Flame Charge increased Tepig's Speed so he could counter in time," commented Cilan.
"Yeah, but barely." winced Georgia, seeing Tepig shake his tail in pain.
"Let's switch things up. Use Air Slash!" waved Lenora. Cawing, Rufflet flaps his wings, releasing multiple light blue glowing saw disc-like energy blades from his wings. Thanks to Tailwind, the Special Attack's speed is increased to the point of letting out whirring sounds similar to actual saws.
"Fight back with Incinerate!" ordered Ash. Growling, Tepig formed an orb of fire with black highlights in front of his nose before blasting it. It sailed through the air a few yards before an Air Slash blade seamlessly cut through it, the halves detonating behind. Surprised, Tepig could do nothing but let himself get hit by the Flying Move.
"TEPIG!" shouted Ash, seeing the Fire Pig get launched into a wall. He fell onto his feet, bruised, but still standing.
"Was it just me, or did Air Slash seem more powerful than normal?" noted Dawn.
"It's almost as if… ****, Rufflet's Ability is Sheer Force." scowled Darwin.
"Sheer Force?" echoed the foreign girls.
"An Ability found locally that swaps Moves' additional effects for power," explained Georgia, holding off on scolding her brother for now.
"Of course, that only applies to beneficial effects. If, let's say… Flare Blitz is used by a Pokémon with Sheer Force, it won't burn the target like normal, but it'll still give recoil damage." added Cilan. The foreign girls winced.
"You still good, Tepig?" asked Ash, concerned. The Fire Pig scrapped his hoof against the floor.
"I see your fire hasn't gone out yet." grinned Lenora.
"Oh, we'll show you firepower! Tepig, Flame Charge!" punched Ash.
"[Hi…YAH!]" Screaming in power, Tepig charged in Rufflet's direction like a flaming rocket. It was then that everyone noticed the winds on Lenora's side of the field dying down.
"Tailwind must be wearing off!" realized May.
"Tepig's gonna be staying ahead in the speed game!" cheered Dawn.
"Unless…"
"Rufflet, use Tailwind and strike Tepig with Superpower!"
"…she does that," sighed Georgia. Ascending to the ceiling, Rufflet then reapplied the Status Move on his side of the field, stray winds blowing against Tepig's Flame Charge. Satisfied, the Eaglet dives toward the Fire-Type, talons coated in dark orange energy. Ash gritted his teeth… until an idea came to mind.
"Tepig, keep up the Flame Charge in a circle!"
"What?!" The spectators, as well as Lenora and Hawes, were surprised by the order. Even so, Tepig did as his Trainer said, running around in a circle with Flame Charge still active. Soon, a vortex of rising flames came from the Fire Pig, almost reaching the ceiling.
"[No puny fire is gonna stop me from getting my food!]" Undeterred, Rufflet dived through the vortex… only to come from the other side with soot and nothing in his talons.
"Rufflet missed?!" gawked Hawes.
"Good thing he knows… Wait, is it getting less windy around here?" noticed Lenora. It was then that almost everyone noticed the Tailwind currents, surprisingly, getting absorbed into the vortex, Rufflet slowing down.
"Ash is a marvelous genius!" awed Cilan.
"I know he is, but why do you say that?" asked Dawn, confused.
"By running in a circle with Flame Charge, Ash is creating an air vacuum that took away Tailwind's currents, taking Rufflet's speed advantage and turning it against him!" explained Cilan.
"That's crazy!" screamed Darwin, jaw-dropped.
"Nope… That's Ash." smiled the foreign girls.
"Impressive… but let's see if it'll hold up. Rufflet, dive back with Aerial Ace!" pointed Lenora.
"[FOR THE FOOD!]" hollered Rufflet, Flying-Type Move prepped as he pulled a U-turn and dived to the bottom of the vortex. Right when he got a few yards close… it dispersed, with Tepig nowhere in sight. "[Where did—]"
"Rollout!"
"[Up here, birdie!]" Changing course, Rufflet looks up to see a grayish-brown flaming ball coming down upon him. It and Aerial Ace collide in an explosion of power. From it, two things fall onto the floor and kick up dust. From it emerges Tepig, weakly stumbling out but still standing. Rufflet is revealed on his back when the dust disperses behind it, eyes swirling.
"Rufflet is unable to battle! Tepig wins!"
Lenora: 3 VS Ash: Tepig + 3
"Oh yeah! Eat it, chump!" jabbed Darwin.
"Tepig won!" smiled the girls.
"While I'm happy for Ash as well, don't keep your hopes up too much. (gets gang's attention) Rufflet was but the first Pokémon." reminded Cilan.
"Good point. (looks back) And look at Tepig." frowned Georgia. True to her words, the Fire-Type appeared unable to take more than one or two hits before passing out.
"You surprise me, Ash! (returns Rufflet) If this is but a taste of your power, then I'm certain Skyla would be in for the battle of her life!" laughed Lenora.
"Skyla?" quirked Ash. Tepig returned to his side of the field.
"The Gym Leader of Mistralton City; she specializes in Flying-Types like my Rufflet and his evolved form. (Ash nods, mentally noting it) Anyway, you're up, Cinccino!" smiled Lenora, bringing out her second Pokémon.
"[Alright, good sir, let's see how you'll fair against a maiden such as I]" huffed the Scarf Pokémon.
"That kleptomaniac's evolved form? (scoffs) Ash has this in the bag." waved Darwin.
"I wouldn't underestimate Cinccino if I were you," warned Cilan.
Lenora: Cinccino + 2 VS Ash: Tepig + 3
"Keep it up with Rollout, Tepig!" punched Ash.
"[Alright!]" Curling into a ball, the Fire Pig rolls after the Normal-Type.
"Grass Knot!" snapped Lenora.
"Did I hear that right?" blinked Dawn, checking her ear.
"I think you did." frowned Cilan. Cinccino's eyes glow green. Then, two blades of grass came up Tepig's path and tied into a knot. Rollout collided with it, resulting in Tepig stumbling forth and skidding against the ground until it tumbled into Cinccino, knocking the latter down.
"[Agh!]" groaned Cinccino, holding a paw to her head. Recovering, Tepig looks toward the Normal-Type… his eyes turning hearts.
"[So… beautiful…]" awed the Fire Pig. Noticing his Pokémon's infatuation, Ash grew worried.
"Tepig, snap out of it!" pleaded Ash. His words fell on deaf ears, the Fire-Type almost shaking.
"Gotcha! (smirks) Finish this with Swift!" grinned Lenora.
"[Hmph! (stands) How dare you strike a lady such as I?]" smirked Cinccino smugly before her entire tail glowed white. Swinging it, many gold-colored stars emerged from it and struck Tepig, launching the infatuated Pokémon to Ash's side of the field. The Fire Pig slumped there, smiling with his eyes swirling.
"Tepig is unable to battle! Cinccino wins!"
Lenora: Cinccino + 2 VS Ash: 3
"What just happened? Did Cinccino use Attract when no one was looking?" blinked Darwin.
"That wasn't Attract. That was Cute Charm." realized Dawn, remembering how her former Ambipom fell victim to a Delcatty's.
"Cute what?"
"It's the Ability version of Attract; it only activates on direct contact with the opposite gender," explained May, remembering a Jigglypuff with it in Kanto.
"That was ingenious of Lenora… using Grass Knot to soften up Tepig's attack and let the Ability do the rest." hummed Cilan, making a mental note to ask Lenora how to teach his Pansage later.
"And given how Tepig was affected, it's safe to bet that Cinccino's a girl." acknowledged Georgia.
"But practically all of Ash's Pokémon are guys!" retorted Darwin. While returning his Tepig, Ash overheard their conversation.
'Practically… but not all of them.' "Pidove, I choose you!" declared Ash, bringing out his second Pokémon.
"Except for Pidove." reminded Cilan.
"I forgot about her."
Lenora: Cinccino + 2 VS Ash: Pidove + 2
"Start with Heat Wave!" waved Ash. Lenora blinks, astounded.
"[Get ready to burn!]" Pidove flapped her wings, releasing fiery winds that sailed toward Cinccino. The Scarf Pokémon shielded herself with her tail, taking the Special Attack. Afterward, she waves her appendage off, bits of smoke coming off her body.
'Good thing Cinccino's oils aren't flammable.' "I commend you for teaching your Pidove a Move to counter Ice-Types… but it ain't good enough right now. Cinccino, give them a Thunderbolt!" smirked Lenora.
"What?!" Ash's ears didn't deceive him. Cinccino's body becomes surrounded by yellow electricity and she fires multiple beams of yellow electricity from her body at Pidove. "Use Quick Attack and dodge!"
"[Got it!]" Nodding, Pidove evaded the Electric attack, streaks of white energy coming off her body. She then dived towards Cinccino, ramming into her… but not before a stray Thunderbolt hit.
"OK, I get Grass Knot because Normal-Type attacks aren't very effective against Rock-Type Pokémon, but why the ****—"
"LANGUAGE!"
"—did she teach that kleptomaniac an Electric-Type Move; a Type that's only super effective against two others that are neutral towards Normal?" wondered Darwin, ignoring Georgia's scold.
"[I am not a maniac of any sort!]" huffed Cinccino, glaring at Darwin.
"She taught several Pokémon Electric attacks as contingencies against our region's Fossil Pokémon," explained Hawes.
"That's being prepared." nodded Cilan.
"You alright, Pidove?" asked Ash when the Tiny Pigeon flew to his side.
"[Don't worry. Her Thunderbolt is nothing compared to Pikachu's.]" shook Pidove.
"Good. Keep at it with Heat Wave!" punched Ash. Nodding, Pidove launched fiery winds at Cinccino.
"Fight back with Swift!" waved Lenora. Cinccino waves her glowing white tail, unleashing several golden stars. While many stars and winds collided and exploded, others passed by and struck their targets. Soon, smoke filled the field.
"Pidove, use Gust and blow the smoke away!" waved Ash. Nodding, Pidove conjured a blast of wind that cleared the smoke… with Cinccino nowhere in sight. "Where'd she—"
"Now get in close with Focus Blast!" smirked Lenora, looking upwards. Following her sight, Ash held a gasp at seeing the Scarf Pokémon descending toward Pidove, an orb of dark orange energy in one of her paws.
"Block with Steel Wing!" grasped Ash. Hasty, Pidove turned her wings metallic before crossing them in time for Cinccino to throw the close-range Focus Blast. It exploded on impact before Cinccino gracefully landed on her Trainer's side of the field. Pidove, on the other hand, fell onto her back, barely standing up. "Pidove!"
"If Pidove didn't use Steel Wing, she would've been knocked out by that." winced Dawn.
"Speaking of which, why don't your Togekiss or May's Swablu know that Move?" asked Darwin curiously. Dawn opened her mouth to retort… only to close it when she couldn't answer.
"…Ask Ash to teach them Steel Wing after the battle?" wondered May. Dawn nodded in agreement.
"Good work Cinccino." praised Lenora. The Normal-Type smugly smirks… before wincing when her body glows red. "Uh-oh!"
"That last Heat Wave must've given Cinccino a spicy side-effect." chuckled Cilan.
"Good… I don't think Pidove can take much more, especially if that Focus Blast weakened her Special Defense." winced Darwin.
"If we're going down… (clenches fist) Then we're going down fighting. Pidove, Heat Wave, and keep it up!" punched Ash. Nodding, Pidove ascended into the air before unleashing a barrage of fiery winds.
"You're not gonna hit us with that Move again! Counter with Thunderbolt!" waved Lenora. Smirking, Cinccino unleashed several beams of electricity towards the Heat Wave. The collision remained at a stalemate, bolts clashing with winds… until Cinccino's Burn kicked in. One Thunderbolt flickered out of existence before it could collide with a fiery wind, letting it through before it struck the Scarf Pokémon. She then fell onto her knees, then her face, eyes swirling.
"Cinccino is unable to battle! Pidove wins!"
Lenora: 2 VS Ash: Pidove + 2
"Alright, way to go!" cheered Ash, holding out an arm. Pidove landed on it, nuzzling her Trainer in victory.
"That was close." sighed May in relief.
"Two down, two to go." nodded Georgia.
"Too bad this wasn't a 2-on-2 like my battle, or it would've been over already." sighed Darwin, arms folded.
"Cinccino, return! (holds out Great Ball to do so) With a flying powerhouse like that, you can give several of us Gym Leaders a run for our money!" chuckled Lenora.
"Thanks." smiled Ash.
"But don't think I won't do the same in return. Sawsbuck, help me out!" cried Lenora, bringing out her Normal/Grass-Type.
"[As you command!]"
"Pidove, return!" Ash did so with a Poké Ball.
"What the—Why'd he do that? Yeah, Pidove's a couple of Moves away from fainting, but she has the Type advantage over Sawsbuck," asked Darwin. The foreign girls exchanged looks.
"You know something, don't you?" noted Georgia.
"You'll find out." grinned May.
"Deerling, I choose you!" declared Ash, bringing out his own Normal/Grass-Type. This surprised almost everyone.
"Well… that's unexpected." blinked Cilan.
"He does this a lot." shook May softly.
"Mirror or evolution matches when he has the opportunity…" nodded Dawn.
Lenora: Sawsbuck + 1 VS Ash: Deerling + Pidove + 1
"(chuckles) Well, aren't you an interesting one. Sawsbuck, Retaliate!" smirked Lenora.
"Retaliate with what?" blinked Ash, confused. He received his answer when white spectral images of Cinccino and Rufflet came out from Lenora's Great Balls and entered Sawsbuck, becoming absorbed. The Season Pokémon lit up with a white aura before rushing towards Deerling and ramming into him. The pre-evolution was sent back a few meters, wincing in pain.
"Oh boy…" winced Cilan.
"You know that Move, Cilan?" asked Dawn worriedly.
"Indeed. (looks at girls) Retaliate is a Normal-Type attack that doubles in power if at least one Pokémon before the user becomes unable to battle recently." explained Cilan.
"If Lenora had Lillipup use that Move against me, our battle would've gone differently," winced Darwin.
"That's bad." frowned May.
"Don't worry Deerling. We're only getting started. Get in close with Double Kick." punched Ash. Nodding, Deerling slid under Sawsbuck (surprising the team since they were expecting it from the sides), spun, and thrusts his hind legs into his evolution's underbelly, launching it a few yards back. The elder Season Pokémon landed on his hooves, dragging his front legs across the ground.
"(laughs) That Deerling's strong, alright. But let me show you a real kick. Use Jump Kick!" waved Lenora. Neighing, Sawsbuck leaps into the air, soaring toward Deerling with a hind leg stretched.
"Hit back with Double Kick!" punched Ash. Smirking, Deerling turned his back to his evolution. Once the elder Season Pokémon got close enough, Deerling thrusts both hind legs into the kick. A shockwave of power came off the collision before Sawsbuck flipped back and onto Lenora's side of the field.
"[Not bad… for a faun.]" smirked Sawsbuck, shaking the pain off his hind leg.
"[Thanks.]" nodded Deerling, shaking the pain off each hind leg.
"What the **—"
"LANGUAGE!"
"Why didn't Ash tell Deerling to dodge? Jump Kick would've given Sawsbuck damage if it missed," asked Darwin, confused.
"This is puzzling to me as well. (nods) If speed was the issue, Agility would've been a good call to make to ensure a successful evasion." noted Cilan.
"Deerling doesn't want to win on a technicality." started May, understanding.
"To Deerling, this isn't a Gym battle… It's a battle to prove he's just as strong as his evolved form." continued Dawn. Understanding washed over the natives.
"I see… The closest equivalent I believe that compares to this is a rite of passage… or a test to see if Deerling is ready to go out into the wild on his own, capable of making his own choices." awed Cilan.
"Amazing…" nodded Georgia. Hearing this, Lenora and Sawsbuck exchanged eye contact.
"I'm guessing you're thinking the same. (Sawsbuck snorts) Well, let's show them that we won't be pulling any punches. Wild Charge!" ordered Lenora. Neighing to the sky, Sawsbuck then rushes at Deerling with a shroud of electricity surrounding his body.
"Wild Charge?" echoed the foreign girls, curious of the Move. Ash feels the same but shelved it in the back of his mind.
"Fight back with Take Down!" punched Ash. Glaring, Deerling then shrouds himself with Normal energy, charging towards his evolution in kind. Electric and Normal energy came together and exploded. When the smoke cleared, both Pokémon were butting heads, growling in each other's faces. The recoil damage then kicked in for both, sapping one's last strength and leaving him falling onto his side, eyes swirling.
"Sawsbuck is unable to battle! Deerling wins!"
Lenora: 1 VS Ash: Deerling + Pidove + 1
"Way to go, Deerling!" cheered Ash, rushing over and hugging his Pokémon.
"[Welcome to the beating Evo club.]" chuckled Pikachu, patting one of his teammate's legs. Deerling tiredly smiled and nodded into the embrace. Noticing his exhaustion, Ash returned him.
"Sweet! Lenora's down to just her Audino while Ash has 3 on him!" smirked Darwin.
"He has this in the bag!" smiled May.
"Speaking of, what kind of Move was Wild Charge? It looked like Volt Tackle," commented Dawn.
"It's a weaker variant discovered in Unova that multiple Pokémon can use," explained Cilan.
"Haha… (returns Sawsbuck) I haven't had such a fun battle in a while. No offense, Darwin," said Lenora.
"None taken," shook Darwin.
"But I'm afraid this battle is about to come to an end. Let's finish this, Audino!" called Lenora, bringing out her last Pokémon.
"HA! A support Pokémon?! Ash doesn't even need to bring out his fourth Pokémon for this." laughed Darwin, arms behind his head. Cilan frowns, uncertain.
"Pidove, I choose you!" called Ash, bringing out his flyer. The Tiny Pigeon coos in the air.
Lenora: Audino VS Ash: Pidove + Deerling + 1
"Bring out some Heat Wave!" waved Ash. Cooing, Pidove ascended and unleashed fiery winds heading toward Audino.
"Calm Mind," said Lenora simply. Audino merely closed her eyes and joined her hands in a prayer. Soon, a dark pink outline, followed by a rainbow aura, came over Audino's body.
"Where have I heard of that Move before?" murmured Dawn. She vaguely recalls a member of Sinnoh's Elite Four using the Move, but that was years ago, so it's hard for her to remember.
"I've seen it a few times in Johto. It boosts the user's special stats a bit," answered May, remembering a few Psychic-Types using it as part of Appeals.
"So she's planning on letting Audino tank Special Attacks?" blinked Darwin, glancing at May.
"You may want to take another look for yourself." awed Cilan. Darwin looked back and gawked. Seamlessly, Audino is evading the winds with very little movement, her eyes and hands remaining in the Calm Mind pose despite the glow fading.
"Now Blizzard," smirked Lenora. After evading the rest of Heat Wave, Audino separated her hands before opening her mouth, which glowed icy blue. A large and powerful blizzard was released from it.
"Pidove, dodge it!" ordered Ash frantically. Pidove flew to the side, avoiding the Ice attack… only for Audino to turn her head and catch the Tiny Pigeon in the blizzard. Cooing, the Normal/Flying-Type could do nothing but be launched into the wall behind Ash, bits of frost covering her body. She slid down, eyes swirling.
"Pidove is unable to battle! Audino wins!"
Lenora: Audino VS Ash: Deerling + 1
"Sorry for letting you down, Pidove." sighed Ash, returning her. Audino opened her eyes, smirking.
"An Ice-Type Special Attack, boosted by Calm Mind, that can also follow the target… Ash has his work cut out for him." hummed Cilan.
"And Pidove didn't even leave a scratch. (folds) If Tepig was still in the game, he would've had a better chance against that Move." commented Darwin.
"And don't forget the fact that Audino only showed half her hand." countered Cilan. Darwin nodded.
"Don't forget Ash has one fresh Pokémon left." reminded Dawn.
"And Deerling is leagues faster than most of the team." nodded May. Ash's hand hovered over Deerling's Poké Ball.
'No. (lowers hand and looks over Audino, specifically the ears) If what happened just now was anything, speed won't cut it. Audino could predict whenever Deerling gets close and dodge with ease. If only there was a way to attack without…' Ash's eyes wandered around until they lay on May. An idea sparked in his mind. 'That's it.'
"Oshawott, I choose you!" declared Ash, bringing out the Sea Otter.
"[Sorry milady, but can't afford to disappoint my Trainer.]" smirked Oshawott. Audino rolled her eyes.
Lenora: Audino VS Ash: Oshawott + Deerling
"Oshawott, start with Rain Dance!" shouted Ash, pointing upward. Putting his scalchop in his mouth, Oshawott began a jazz dancing routine, his body gaining a glowing blue outline.
"Is he mad?! That'll just give Audino another chance to use—"
"Calm Mind."
"****it!" facepalmed Darwin. While the Normal-Type boosts her Special stats, dark clouds begin to form above the field, rain following. Frowning, Audino dismissed her Calm Mind gestures, looking around.
"Haha, I see you found out Audino's trick," smirked Lenora. This confused the audience.
"Yeah. (points at ears) I remember the Pokédex calling Audino the Hearing Pokémon. The pieces didn't come together until I noticed how Audino never opened her eyes when dodging Heat Wave or firing Blizzard at Pidove." smirked Ash.
"Audino beat Pidove with her eyes closed?! That's even worse." gawked Darwin.
"But you have to admit it's an impressive feat," confessed Cilan.
"Audino's 'trick' to dodging attacks so flawlessly and having a perfect aim is using her hearing to listen for attacks and movement. (audience's eyes widen) Something hard to do with weather like hail or rain. (looks at May) May, thanks for catching Yamask so Oshawott could learn Rain Dance from her." said Ash.
"No problem." smiled May, blushing. Dawn and Georgia resisted the urge to give her glares, figuring this was payback for their Pokémon teaching Oshawott Ice Beam.
"So not only is Audino's hearing impaired in this weather, but Oshawott's Water-Type attacks will receive a boost!" smiled Cilan.
"And Blizzard's not very effective on Water-Types," added Darwin.
"Now Oshawott, get in close with Aqua Jet!" punched Ash.
"[Close to a lady? Just how I like it.]" grinned Oshawott. The Sea Otter's body briefly becomes surrounded by blue energy. When the blue glow fades, his body becomes surrounded by water and he shoots himself like a rocket at Audino, slamming into her.
"[EEEHHH!]" screamed Audino, getting pushed back a few feet.
"I'm impressed, Ash. (claps) Calm Mind only boosts Special Defense, not physical. (grins) However, you left yourself open. (Ash blinks, confused) Thunder!" commanded Lenora. Audino grabs onto Oshawott once the water dispersed, the former's body crackling with electricity.
"Get out—" The rest of Ash's words were drowned out when a loud boom echoed through the air and a large lightning bolt came down from the clouds and struck the two, smoke coming from the attack. When it dispersed, Oshawott wobbled away from Audino backward.
"[So you sur—]" winced Audino, holding a hand over her torso.
"What's wrong, Audi— (notices dark orange glow fade from Oshawott's arms) A Fighting-Type Move… You had Oshawott use one to get out of ground zero of Thunder, didn't you?" realized Lenora.
"Yup. (nods, arms folded) If it wasn't for Georgia's Beartic teaching him Rock Smash, Oshawott would've been done for," smirked Ash. Georgia mirrored him, looking at her love rivals. They glared at her. Cilan sighs and gently holds his face.
"Impressive. (shakes head) However, even if Oshawott's not down yet, another attack can do the job. Use Thunder again, Audino!" waved Lenora.
"Aqua Jet before it can hit!" added Ash. While Audino crackled with electricity again and raised her arms toward the sky, Oshawott shrouded himself in water and rocketed toward the Hearing Pokémon's torso. On cue, a large lightning bolt came down and consumed the entire field in smoke. Soon, the rain dispersed.
"Rain Dance wore off," noted Dawn.
"So neither of them has advantages anymore," added May.
"Question is… (crosses arms) Who's remaining?" frowned Cilan. Soon, the smoke dispersed, revealing Audino and Oshawott standing across each other, glaring. The stare-off lasted for a few moments before they fell on their knees, then faces, eyes swirling.
"Both Pokémon are unable to battle! However, since the challenger has one Pokémon remaining, the victory goes to Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town!"
Winner: Ash
"Alright!" cheered Ash, rushing over to Oshawott. Kneeling, he carries the Sea Otter.
"[Did… I win?]" asked Oshawott drowsily. Ash smiled.
"You did the best you could for the team, Oshawott." nodded Ash. After a few moments, everyone gathered, with the married couple facing the gang, all the Pokémon Ash used in his battle out.
"I have to admit, not many faced my four-badge team and won, especially a whole group of non-evolved Pokémon." grinned Lenora.
"Evolution isn't everything." shook Ash.
"(chuckles) I couldn't agree more. And you're not so bad yourself, Darwin. (rookie nods) With that out of the way, I'm proud to present to you the Basic Badge." smiled Lenora, Hawes handing Ash the Badge. The veteran took it, smiling.
"How great is this?! I just got the Basic Badge!" posed Ash, Badge held high in the air.
"[Alright/YEAH/Yes!]"
(Pokémon Center, Afternoon)
"Ash, Darwin? Here are your Pokémon Eggs!" called Nurse Joy, having looked after them during the Gym Battles. Both Ash and Darwin took the Eggs in thanks.
"Thank you, Nurse Joy. You've been a really good help." thanked Ash.
"Why, thank you! I've put the two Eggs in a thorough exam… It's looking really well! And the two Eggs might hatch soon!" explained Nurse Joy, stunning them.
"Whoa, really?!" exclaimed Ash.
"Yes! So make sure that the two of you take really good care of them!" reminded Nurse Joy.
"Right/Definitely!" nodded the caretakers. With that done, they met with the others, the Pokémon giving Primeape farewells while the humans watched.
"[It's been a blast training under you.]" bowed Tepig, followed by several others. Folding his arms, Primeape then nodded.
"You said your goodbyes, everyone? (Pokémon let out noises of agreement) Good. And thanks, Primeape, for everything you've done for us this past couple of weeks." smiled Ash.
"[I owe you thanks too. (stretches arms) It's been nice traveling with you again.]" nodded Primeape.
"Until next time, Primeape." smiled Ash sadly, returning the Fighting-Type.
"So who'll be coaching your team now, Ash?" asked May curiously.
"That depends on the Gym," answered Ash. Humming, Darwin went towards a computer and used it.
"Let's see… The closest I can find is Castelia City and it uses Bug-Types," answered Darwin.
"[Bug-Types, huh?]" noted Pikachu, glancing at Ash.
"Yeah, haven't faced a Bug-Type Gym since Johto." understood Ash.
"Which reminds me, with the pattern we're making, you're challenging the gym before me," noted Darwin. Ash nodded before facing the computer.
"Alright! (fist-pumps) Bug Badge number 2 and Unova Badge number 3, here we come!" cheered Ash.
"[YEAH!]"
Ash's Pokémon Team
Pikachu (M): Ability: Static. Moves: Agility, Thunder, Iron Tail, Quick Attack, Volt Tackle, Thunderbolt, Fusion Bolt, Brick Break, Strength, Attract
Primeape (M): Ability: Anger Point. Moves: Thrash, Mega Kick, Mega Punch, Seismic Toss, Cross Chop, Close Combat, Punishment, Dynamic Punch, Brick Break, Strength, Fire Punch
Deerling (M): Ability: Chlorophyll. Moves: Tackle, Camouflage, Growl, Agility, Double Kick, Sunny Day, Faint Attack, Leech Seed, Attract, Take Down
Pidove (F): Ability: Super Luck. Moves: Gust, Quick Attack, Air Cutter, Leer, Steel Wing, Heat Wave, Attract
Oshawott (M): Ability: Torrent. Moves: Tackle, Water Gun, Razor Shell, Rock Smash, Ice Beam, Attract, Rain Dance, Aqua Jet
Tepig (M): Ability: Blaze. Moves: Tackle, Ember, Yawn, Sunny Day, Heat Wave, Incinerate, Flame Charge, Rock Smash, Rollout
At Prof. Oak's
Gible (M): Ability: Sand Veil. Moves: Dig, Draco Meteor, Dragon Pulse, Rock Smash, Incinerate, Flamethrower, Dragon Claw
Muk (M): Ability: Stench. Moves: Body Slam, Sludge Bomb, Mud Bomb
Darwin's Pokémon Team
Tepig (F): Ability: Blaze. Moves: Tackle, Tail Whip, Ember, Odor Sleuth, Incinerate, Sunny Day, Heat Wave
Purrloin (F): Ability: Limber. Moves: Scratch, Growl, Assist, Iron Tail, Fury Swipes, Attract, Shadow Claw
Lillipup (M): Ability: Pickup. Moves: Leer, Tackle, Odor Sleuth, Bite, Helping Hand, Fire Fang, Attract, Take Down, Rock Smash, Return
Blitzle (M): Ability: Lightning Rod. Moves: Quick Attack, Charge, Shock Wave, Attract, Thunder Wave, Flame Charge, Thunderbolt
Georgia's Pokémon Team
Beartic (M): Ability: Snow Cloak. Moves: Slash, Night Slash, Icicle Crash, Ice Beam, Rock Smash, Strength, Brick Break, Shadow Claw
Pawniard (F): Ability: Defiant. Moves: Metal Claw, Iron Head, Guillotine, Faint Attack, Assurance, Night Slash, Brick Break, Shadow Claw
Vanillite (F): Ability: Ice Body. Moves: Avalanche, Mist, Icicle Spear, Ice Beam, Attract
May's Pokémon Team
Blaziken (M): Ability: Blaze. Moves: Blaze Kick, Overheat, Flamethrower, Sky Uppercut, Fire Spin, Shadow Claw, Mega Kick, Sunny Day, Solar Beam, Heat Wave, Brick Break, Double Team, Attract
Swablu (F): Ability: Natural Cure. Moves: Sing, Mist, Round, Double Team, Sunny Day, Solar Beam, Heat Wave, Attract
Yamask (F): Ability: Mummy. Moves: Haze, Will-O-Wisp, Rain Dance, Psychic, Night Shade, Hex
Dawn's Pokémon Team
Piplup (M): Ability: Torrent. Moves: Drill Peck, Ice Beam, Hydro Pump, Whirlpool, Mist, Brick Break
Togekiss (F): Ability: Serene Grace. Moves: Aura Sphere, Sky Attack, Air Slash, Safeguard, Sunny Day, Solar Beam, Heat Wave, Brick Break
Munna* (F): Ability: Synchronize. Moves: Psybeam, Yawn, Imprison, Barrier, Attract
Snivy (F): Ability: Overgrow. Moves: Attract, Vine Whip, Leaf Storm, Leaf Blade, Sunny Day, Solar Beam
Cilan's Pokémon Team
Pansage (M): Ability: Gluttony. Moves: Bullet Seed, Bite, Solar Beam, Dig, Rock Tomb, Vine Whip, Sunny Day, Shadow Claw
Dwebble (F): Ability: Sturdy. Moves: Protect, Slash, Dig, X-Scissor, Shell Smash, Shadow Claw
Ash: Whoa, a Normal-Type victory on my first try.
Dawn: Bet canon you wished that the 'curse' was broken, right?
Georgia: No kidding.
Omarnosian10: Yeah. On other notes, the title of the chapter is based on the NOTM sequel; "Battle of the Smithsonian".
Darwin: You really love those movies.
Omarnosian10: Not too much, but the location was fitting. And for Lenora's Pokémon, Rufflet's Moveset is based on her Braviary's in the BW2 World Tournament, with Aerial Ace acting as a downgrade to Sky Attack and Air Slash replacing U-Turn. Similar case with Cinccino, Sawsbuck, and Audino, only none of them have any Moves replaced.
Cilan: And the latter two didn't get to show off one of their Moves.
May: Speaking of, why did Watchog have Iron Tail in his set?
Omarnosian10: Similar reason to the others' Fighting-Type Moves; to counter Rock-Types. Plus, she doesn't want Thunderbolt used in case Blitzle has Lightning Rod. Similar case with Lillipup using Bite instead of Shadow Ball; the latter wouldn't affect Darwin's.
Ash: Maybe if I used Pidove in my first canon battle instead of one of the others, things would've gone differently.
Omarnosian10: Maybe. And with single-try victories, the gang is ahead of schedule of their canon counterparts.
Cilan: Does this mean Scraggy won't hatch next chapter?
Omarnosian10: Oh he will, but the distance covered will be much greater. That's all for now. SMOKEBOMB!