After surviving a storm caused by the mysterious Hamestrin, Summer and Weldon made it to Dewford Town, the location of the second Gym. Before they started training, Summer ran into her old friend, Jayden, his sister, Marisa, and the rowdy Blaziken, Saenchai. Saenchai demanded a fight against Blaze, his rival from the Saffron City Dojo. Blaze, however, was losing very badly until he was able to land a powerful blow with Lightning's encouragement. This enraged his opponent, who not only injured the Raichu and Blaze further, but also threatened to hurt Summer. Thankfully, the Gym Leader, Brawly, stopped Saenchai from causing more damage. As the three recover from the incident, Summer's worry about her battles with Blaze are causing her to stress more about their physical training. But does Blaze think the same, and how will the two improve together?
P.S.- Thanks to Fancyyy for providing me with Harry Waves, who originally appeared in his story, Hoenn - Where the Journey Begins! :)
Chapter 13- The Muay Thai Kid
I sat in the emergency room waiting area at the Pokémon Center, staring at the bright red operating sign. It'd been hours since Blaze was admitted, and I haven't heard much from Nurse Mura or Brawly, who was helping her with the assessment.
Lightning lay her head on my lap, tears trickling down her face. I stroked her, and she wiped them away.
"I really hope Blaze is okay," she murmured.
I leaned back on the wall and sighed. "Me too, Lightning. I should've seen the warning signs sooner."
"It's not your fault, Summer. I shouldn't have reacted that way and let Saenchai attack us."
I continued to pet her. "Well, we can't take back what we did. All we can do is help Blaze get better."
The illuminated operating sign on top of the door turned off, and the adults exited the emergency room.
We sprung up. "How's Blaze?" I inquired.
To my relief, the nurse smiled. "Blaze's condition is stable. He suffered a lot of damage, but he'll fully recover."
Brawly added, "However, that recovery will take about a week. It's best to let him stay here and rest."
"I see. Can we see him now?"
Nurse Mura sadly replied, "I'm afraid he's sleeping right now. He should be awake tomorrow."
I took a deep breath and bowed, with Lightning following suit. "Thank you both for helping Blaze."
"You're welcome, Summer," Nurse Mura replied. "I'm no stranger to injured Fighting types, even with injuries like this."
Brawly rubbed the back of his head. "I can't say how sorry I am about how things turned out, Summer. Saenchai will be disciplined properly, I can assure you that."
I clutched my left arm. "That's okay, Brawly. We share some responsibility in this as well."
He raised an eyebrow. "You couldn't have known about Saenchai's rough nature. Don't feel bad, 'kay? Anyway, you should take it easy for the rest of the day, Summer. Maybe catch a wave or two."
"I haven't been surfing before, but thanks anyway."
The nurse nodded. "I'm sure everyone else is anxious to hear the news. I'll have the cooks prepare some of our special ramen to cheer you up."
"Thanks, Nurse Mura."
We exited into the main lobby where Weldon, Jayden, and Marisa were waiting nervously.
My rival stood up when we got closer. "How's Blaze?"
"He's fine," I explained. "But he'll need a week to make a full recovery."
Jayden was relieved. "That's promising. Usually, it takes two to four weeks to recover from injuries like that."
Marisa gave me a guilty look. "I promise I won't let this happen again, Summer. I'll work with Saenchai on controlling his impulses."
"Thanks, Marisa." I was about to tell her about her Pokémon's unusual emotion, but I kept it to myself. After all, she didn't know about my abilities.
Brawly motioned to the younger martial artists.
Jayden nodded to his mentor. He turned to me and Weldon. "Take it easy for now, Summer. Let me know when you want to begin the training."
"Sure, Jayden."
We exchanged Pokégear numbers, and the three left the Pokémon Center.
I collapsed on the couch, flinging sand onto the plastic protected cushions and the floor. "Man, what a day…"
"Why don't you go take a shower?" Weldon suggested. "That'll help you relax."
"I…don't really feel like it…"
Lightning prodded me. "Weldon's right. Come on, Summer. At least it'll get the sand out of your hair."
"Ugh...fine."
I trudged to our room and did as they told. The rest of the night was filled with awkward silence as I avoided talking to Weldon and Lightning. After all, I wasn't in any mood to.
Later that night…
I tossed and turned in bed, unable to shake the day's memories from my mind. Blaze's struggles against Saenchai, Saenchai threatening me and Lightning, and my attempts to help Blaze. The screams from Blaze trying to protect us rang in my ears, and I winced.
Saenchai's voice whispered in my head, "You're just as weak as Blaze."
I forced my eyes open and adjusted to the dark room. My Pokégear read "2:00 am". I wiped my sweaty brow and sighed.
This wouldn't have happened if Blaze and I physically trained more. Saenchai's right. I am weak…I sat up, careful to not disturb Lightning. I should get some water. Maybe that'll help me go back to sleep.
I grabbed my keys, put on my slippers, and tiptoed out of the room. I was about to head to the bathroom when I noticed a large dark shadow in the lobby. The figure displayed no malice, so I snuck closer to see who it was. To my astonishment, I could make out Blaze's silhouette. He limped towards the cafeteria, and I heard a door open and close.
"That must be the side door," I muttered to myself. "I should see where he's going."
I followed my Pokémon's trail through the deserted streets and past the town until I reached the beach. I could barely make him out, but I hid behind some nearby rocks just in case. When I peered over, I saw he was trying to practice his attacks, but he kept clutching his body. The strains from the fight limited his range of motion.
"Dang it," he growled. "My body's betraying me." He sat down, hands on his head, and stared at the bobbing waves. "At this rate, I won't be able to beat him. I can't let Summer down; I have to do everything I can to win for her."
I bit my lip. H-He's not upset with me? I should be happy, but why do I still feel guilty?
I adjusted my footing, only to step on a driftwood twig.
Blaze turned around, alert. "Who's there?" he demanded.
I took a deep breath and revealed myself. "It's me, Blaze."
"S-Summer…" He tried to get up, but his injuries stopped him.
"Don't move, Blaze," I cautioned. I sat to his right and stifled a cry when I saw the bandages around his waist and head. "You...You shouldn't have to be in this state so many times."
He tried to play it off. "I-It's a symbol of pride, that's all. I've only been badly injured against really strong opponents."
"I-It still shouldn't have happened… I should've stopped the fight sooner, or I should've worked with you more on your physical attacks, or maybe I-I-" I couldn't hold it in any longer, and the tears ran down my cheeks. "I-I failed you, Blaze."
He put his hand on my shoulder. "No… You've never failed me, Summer. I failed myself. I should've trained more on my own, battled against more Fighting types-"
I wiped my face and gazed into his blue eyes. "But we're supposed to be battling together. I should be there by your side, not away from it."
He looked away. "But...I don't want you to get hurt. You know what it's like, the training and the battling. It's hard work if you're not used to it."
"Remember what I told you back in Littleroot Town? I'm willing to learn if it can help our bond during battle. And Jayden said he can help us when you're better."
"Yeah, but still-"
"I want us to get stronger together, Blaze. These obstacles won't go away; isn't it better to prepare for them as a team than individually?"
"Thinking like a research assistant again, aren't you?" After I chuckled, he grinned. "Though, I guess you're right." He clenched his right fist. "We'll get stronger together."
He showed it to me, and I fist-bumped him.
"Come on, let me help you get back to the Pokémon Center. Focus on recovering, okay? No training just yet."
"I will, promise."
I got up and assisted Blaze to his feet. We walked back to the lodging, and I could feel our bond strengthening.
The next week…
My team and I were at the beach, helping Errol and Lightning practice their close-range attacks.
"Rocky, use Iron Tail on Errol!" I shouted. "Aurora, use Aqua Tail on Lightning!"
The Noctowl dodged the silver tail by controlling it with his Psychic attack as the Raichu protected herself against the swirling water with her own Iron Tail.
"Great defense, you two!" I praised. "Let's take a break."
My Pokémon and I gathered around a small cluster of rocks near the center of the beach. I gave them all some water, which they happily drank.
Lightning asked, "How're we doing, Summer?"
"Great. Both of you are getting better at battling at close range."
Errol let out a triumphant laugh. "I never knew I could manipulate my Psychic attack similar to my Confusion attack! What a revelation!"
I smirked. "All it took was for a Starmie to attack me to find that out."
The Owl Pokémon stroked his chin. "But then, I no longer require the use of Confusion. What move should I acquire now?"
"Maybe you should focus on this Gym battle first, Errol," Aurora replied. "You can always learn a new move anytime."
"Ah, an excellent answer, my apprentice! You are growing both in power and knowledge!"
He gave another hearty laugh, and the rest of us sweat dropped.
"Anyway," I interjected. "The plan is to use Errol, Lightning, and Blaze."
Olive climbed onto my shoulder. "Y-You don't need me this time, Summer?"
I petted her head. "No, I think I should be okay. Besides, I think it'll be better for you to watch the battle rather than partake in it."
"O-Oh. Th-That makes sense. Can Rocky watch it with me?"
The Steelix and I looked at each other and sheepishly grinned. "I don't think he can fit in the bleachers… But you can watch with Weldon."
Though she was disappointed, she understood the physics behind the situation.
Weldon came over, his clothes dripping with sweat. "Hey, Summer. How's the training going?"
"Hey, Weldon. It's going pretty well. How was your run?"
"Eh, nothing too crazy. The scenery was nice though."
"Mr. Weldon!" Errol exclaimed. "I would enjoy hearing your opinion about my new move!"
He raised an eyebrow. "New move? Oh, you mean the move to replace Confusion."
"Errol!" Aurora scolded. "You said you won't think about that until the Gym battle's over!"
The Noctowl's body drooped. "Why must you remind me, my apprentice?"
Lightning noticed the sun setting. "Let's get back to the Pokémon Center, Summer. I wanna see how Blaze's doing."
I nodded. "All right then. I'm sure everyone's also hungry." I returned everyone else and we walked back to town.
When we entered the air-conditioned building, Nurse Mura approached. "Oh, there you are, Summer. I have news on Blaze's condition."
Lightning was anxious, and I tried to hide mine. "What is it, Nurse Mura?"
To our relief, she beamed and handed me his Poké Ball. "I'm happy to report that he's fully recovered. He'll still need to take it easy with the training, but he should be able to participate in battles in another week or so."
"Thank you, Nurse Mura."
"I'm glad to help. I look forward to seeing you and Weldon soon."
She returned to her desk, and I let Blaze out. He was no longer covered in bandages, but I could see his breathing was a little labored.
"Blaze!" Lightning hugged her crush. "I was so worried!"
He gasped. "N-Not so tight!"
"Oh, sorry!" She let go, allowing him to hug her instead.
"Thanks for worrying about me, Lightning." He then turned his attention to me. "Summer. I'm ready to begin our training."
I nodded. "Okay. I'll let Jayden know. You should get some more rest."
He glanced down, but nodded. "Can I see the rest of the team after dinner?"
"Of course."
He smiled as he went back into his Poké Ball. I called Jayden, and after a few minutes, we decided to meet at the beach tomorrow morning.
After I hung up, Weldon looked solemn. "So, you're going to do the Fighting-based training tomorrow then?"
"Yeah. You can watch if you want."
He clenched his left fist. "I'd...rather not. I'll still be around if you need me though."
"Oh, okay. Let's wash up for dinner."
We spent the rest of the night recuperating and spending time with our Pokémon.
The next day…
Weldon, Lightning, and I arrived at the main beach before dawn break.
The groggy Raichu complained, "Why did we have to wake up so early?"
"Jayden said Blaze and I should run some laps along the beach before he arrives," I explained.
"Then I'll get some more sleep in the meantime…" She waddled to a large, flat rock and curled on top of it.
I shrugged and let out Blaze. Now with his body almost back to full form, he was eager to improve his skills.
"I'm ready to go whenever you are," my starter said.
I nodded and turned to Weldon. "Want to join us, Weldon?"
To my surprise, he shook his head. He adjusted his hat and replied, "Actually, I don't really want to be here when Jayden comes."
His anxiety worried me. "I...understand. I'll come find you at the Pokémon Center when we finish."
He nodded curtly and walked towards the small pier.
Blaze mused, "Will Weldon be okay?"
I sighed. "I hope so. I really should talk to him, but I do want to focus on our training first."
He nodded. "All right." He pointed to some rocks by a large cave opening. "Why don't we make that the furthest point to run to? Then we'll turn around and return here."
I glanced at the distance. It looks pretty long, maybe 500 feet? Hope that's doable.
We exchanged knowing glances and ran towards the cave. I was able to keep up with Blaze at the beginning, but at the halfway point, I began to lose steam. But instead of sprinting ahead, the Blaziken not only made sure I caught up to him, but he also slowed his pace to match mine. By the time we did several laps, the sun was rising over us. When we arrived at our starting point, Jayden was waiting patiently.
He smiled as he crossed his arms. "So, how did the laps go?"
I bent over, panting. "It...was...tiring…"
The martial artist laughed. "That's how it is the first time. But you'll get more used to it as you continue. Why don't we go over our training regimen for today?"
I stood back up and took a deep breath.
After a short nod, he began his lecture. "Since this will be your first time doing this kind of intense training, we're going to take it slow and do some basic exercises and drills. Then, when I think you've mastered them, Hariyama and I will show you how to spar with Blaze."
I bit my lip, and my Pokémon noticed. "Don't worry, Summer. I won't make it difficult for you to learn."
I brushed my hair back and smiled. "Okay. Let's get the training started then."
Jayden was about to respond when he noticed something on the ocean. "Hey, is that…?"
A large wave, typical around this area, moved towards us. On it, a boy around my age was riding the wave on a blue surfboard with a gray fin design. When the wave began to crash onto the sand, he eased his board onto the beach and grinned. The warm wind jostled his spiky blond hair. His clothes, a black skin-tight top and dark blue cropped pants, accented his sapphire eyes and tanned skin.
"Jayden!" he exclaimed with a confident tone. "What's up, man?"
The martial artist was surprised. "Harry! I didn't expect you to be out surfing today."
The teen brushed his wet hair back. "I thought I'd catch a few waves before I help Dad at the Gym."
I crossed my arms and cocked my head. He looks really familiar. Where have I seen him before? I then pondered his words. Wait, "Dad"? Could he be…? But…they look so young….
The stranger noticed me. "Hm. I haven't seen you around here before. You new in town?"
"Oh, yeah. I'm Summer Scorcher; I'm here for the Gym challenge."
"I see… You're planning to battle Dad, huh? Not gonna lie, he may seem chill, but he's a tough Trainer. Oh, where are my manners? I'm Harry Waves."
Then it hit me. "You're Harry Waves? You won the Hoenn League a few years ago, right?"
Harry chuckled. "Wow, you're one of the few who's recognized me since that victory."
I stroked my chin. "Wait, you're no longer an active Trainer?"
"Well…sort of… I'm still figuring out where I want to go next. But in the meantime, I've been reconnecting with Dad and surfing." He turned to Jayden. "So, are you her coach or something?"
"Temporarily. I'm helping Summer and her partner, Blaze."
Harry looked at the Blaziken with awe. "Wow. Your Blaziken looks really strong."
"Thanks for the compliment."
Harry looked at his sports watch. "Crap. I gotta get going. It was nice meeting you, Summer. Maybe I'll come by and help with your training. If you don't mind of course."
"I don't mind at all, as long as Jayden's also fine with it."
He smirked. "Well, if you insist, Harry."
"Sweet. Catch ya guys later." He adjusted his black wet shoes, then ran back to town.
"Now then. Tell me how you've been battling with Blaze since you left the dojo."
I was hesitant to respond, but I remembered that was why Jayden was here. "Hm. I've been trying to mimic his fighting movements, but I haven't been able to keep up with him during quick exchanges in our last few battles. During our battle against Roxanne, I didn't mimic any of his moves."
"And how did that go?"
"It...actually went really well. It was a tough battle, but we were able to beat her Nosepass."
Jayden softly smiled. "That's a relief. Hearing that actually makes things easier for us."
"Wait, it does? But I haven't been helping Blaze fight like a martial artist would."
"That's because you necessarily don't have to." Seeing my confused look, he explained, "What's important for both fighters and Trainers is the strong bond between them and their Pokémon. Without that, even the most skilled pairs can't win."
"Wait, so I don't always have to move with him?"
"Not necessarily. That moving in sync strategy is how we train new martial artists to fight alongside their Fighting-type Pokémon. As you gain more knowledge and skill, only slight movements and strong will are needed to translate that bond to your Pokémon."
"Huh. I never thought about it that way. I guess I was so focused on trying to keep up that I lost my concentration. And when I saw Blaze losing the exchanges, my worries and fear made it worse."
I gripped my left arm, struggling to not relive those moments.
Blaze clasped my right shoulder. "Let's not worry about the past, okay, Summer?"
Jayden crossed his arms and reassured, "I may not be able to understand Pokémon speech, but I can definitely tell Blaze has a lot of trust in you. So, come on. Don't be so down."
I exhaled sharply and smiled at the two. "Okay, what's the first step?"
After letting out his partner, Jayden took out a white sheet of cloth from his left pocket and blindfolded himself. He then made a basic fighting stance, with his Hariyama following suit. "Watch our battle dance, or kata. I may not have my sight right now, but you'll see why that's not important."
We focused on the pair, who then began to move along the sand. Both used their arms, hands, feet, and legs to perform several karate forms. The kata was mesmerizing, graceful yet powerful. But what struck me the most was that all of Jayden's movements followed Hariyama's and vice versa at certain parts of the kata. This trading synchronization really highlighted their strong bond.
After a few minutes, they stopped and bowed. Blaze and I clapped as the teen removed his blindfold.
He grinned. "So, whatcha' think?"
"Th-That was amazing!" I gushed. "The way you and Hariyama moved… I felt so much strength between you two."
"Thanks! Anyway, we won't get to that level yet. Right now, let's focus on improving your stances and movements. Once you get that down, then we can practice your synchronization like that kata, and then, the actual battling. So when we spar, we will only be using minimal movement."
I stroked my chin. "I see. How long will that take?"
Jayden mused. "Well, normally the process does take several years. But since you're doing your Gym challenge, and I know you'll be practicing with Blaze after we're done… So based on that…I'd say about a month, give or take."
"A month…" But I gave my instructor a determined smile. "Then we'll have to make the most of it, right Blaze?"
"Right," he replied with a firm nod.
The martial artist cracked his knuckles. "Excellent! Now, let's begin!"
Weldon secretly watched Summer's training from behind a large rock. What he witnessed confused and upset him. Jayden was helping her by guiding her arms on the direction and position they needed to face, and they kept smiling and laughing.
The Kantonian looked away and sat on the cold sand. Come on, Weldon. It's not what you think. Jayden's helping her train, after all. They...They don't have feelings for each other… He lay his head on the rock and closed his eyes. Oh, who am I kidding? They do have some chemistry; they also met before too in a similar situation like mine. And maybe…he is a better teacher for her than me… Ugh…why'd he have to be a martial artist?!
Then, a dark thought clouded his mind, and a tear shed down his face. H-He's right. I'll never be good enough for anyone, especially for her. I'd better go. I shouldn't spy on them anymore. It's...not good for everyone involved.
Weldon got up and headed back towards town, only to bump into a familiar Trainer.
Later that day…
Blaze and I were drenched with sweat as the afternoon sun continued to beat down on us. I felt a little lightheaded from standing in one place for so long, but it was a little bearable as my Pokémon provided me some shade with his tall height.
Jayden looked at his Pokégear and exclaimed, "All right, that's time!"
I released myself from the stance and collapsed on the sand.
Blaze, on the other hand, wasn't as exhausted.
Lightning bent down to check on me. "A-Are you okay, Summer?"
I weakly smiled. "Y-Yeah… I also realized how hot the sand is… But I can't get up…"
The Fire type chuckled. "Here, let me."
He helped me back onto my feet as our instructors handed us some icy bottles of water.
"Don't drink the water too fast," he cautioned. "It'll shock your body and cause some major internal damage."
I nodded and felt cool relief from the drink.
Jayden shaded his eyes. "Looks like it'll be getting hotter, so we should call it a day."
I responded reluctantly, "Are you sure? I-I can keep going…"
"It's nice that you think that way, but you and Blaze did a lot for your first day. And...you'll most likely feel the effects tomorrow. You need to take a break from the training so your body can become more used to it."
Thank goodness… "If you say so, Coach…"
Jayden beamed at his temporary title. "All right then. Since you'll be resting tomorrow, we'll resume training on Friday. In the meantime, you should rest and do some mental exercises."
"Mental exercises?"
"Yeah. Just close your eyes and imagine you and Blaze are fighting an opponent and their Fighting type Pokémon. Practice on judging the Pokémon's movements and physical characteristics and how to counter them. I think you'll have plenty of time to do that."
I barely nodded before almost collapsing again.
Blaze and Lightning caught me.
The former offered, "Let me take you back to town, Summer."
"Th-That sounds good…"
The martial artist was a little confused, but his Hariyama reassured him with a thumbs up. "Okay. Great job, you two. Get some rest, take some ibuprofen, and...prepare some ice packs…" Then his eyes lit up. "Oh yeah. When you're feeling somewhat more mobile tomorrow, Marisa prepared some workout clothes for you to keep. They're sweat-absorbent and should be easier for you to move around once we get to the more physical motions."
"O-Okay… S-See you tomorrow…"
I gave the two a limp wave as Blaze carried me back to the Pokémon Center. He laid me on a nearby couch, and I happily felt the air conditioning cool my body.
Nurse Mura walked over and gasped. "Oh, my. You must've had some training session, Summer."
"Huh?" I turned to the nurse. "Oh, yeah… It was pretty rough."
"Let me get you some extra-powered ibuprofen. The ones we have here are better suited for relieving the body from high energy activities."
I nodded and lay on my right side, allowing her to fetch the medicine.
"Wow, you look like a limp Ditto."
I looked up and saw Weldon over the back of the couch. "Gee, thanks…"
He sat on a nearby chair. "So, I'm guessing it was really rough?"
"Kind of? It was at first, then it got a little better. Jayden said it'll be worse tomorrow."
"Are you training some more tomorrow?"
"No, that'll be from the muscle soreness…"
I thought I heard a snicker, but maybe it was the sound of my bones cracking when I shifted to my left side.
"Owww…" I moaned.
The nurse returned with the ibuprofen, and I eagerly took them. Thankfully, the medicine was taking effect immediately, and I was able to sit on the couch. I looked at my rival's face. Though he looked calm, I could feel something churning inside. A strange mixture of anger, envy, and despair.
"Are…you okay, Weldon?" I asked.
"What do you mean?"
"You seem…more tense than usual."
He shifted his feet and cracked a smile. "I'm fine, Summer. I think your exhaustion's playing tricks with you. Anyway, you should take it easy. I'm going to do some research."
He got up and headed towards the computer lab.
I shook my head. I know you're lying to me, Weldon. And I'm going to find out why.
Summer's Pokémon:
Blaze (Blaziken, male): Brave Nature, Blaze Ability, moves: Fire Punch, Flamethrower, Blaze Kick, Sky Uppercut
Errol (Noctowl, male): Rash Nature, Keen Eye Ability, moves: Psychic, Confusion, Hypnosis, Air Slash
Aurora (Dewgong, female): Calm Nature, Thick Fat Ability, moves: Water Pulse, Ice Beam, Aqua Tail, Aqua Ring
Lightning (Raichu, female): Adamant Nature, Static Ability, moves: Thunderbolt, Quick Attack, Iron Tail, Thunder Punch
Rocky (Steelix, male): Lonely Nature, Rock Head Ability, moves: Stone Edge, Crunch, Dragonbreath, Iron Tail
Olive (Treecko, female): Timid Nature, Overgrow Ability, moves: Pound, Growl, Absorb
Weldon's Pokémon:
Venusaur (male): Serious Nature, Overgrow Ability, moves: Solarbeam, Body Slam, Sludge Bomb, Vine Whip
Fearow (male): Adamant Nature, Keen Eye Ability, moves: Drill Peck, Steel Wing, Fury Attack, Aerial Ace
Golem (male): Bold Nature, Rock Head Ability, moves: Rock Slide, Earthquake, Rollout, Double Edge
Gyarados (male): Sassy Nature, Intimidate Ability, moves: Surf, Ice Fang, Payback, Waterfall
Arcanine (male): Naughty Nature, Flash Fire Ability, moves: Hyper Beam, Extremespeed, Flare Blitz, Fire Blast
Electabuzz (male): Rash Nature, Static Ability, moves: Thunder, Mega Kick, Thunder Punch, Shock Wave
Questions for the Chapter:
What did you think of Summer and Blaze's nighttime conversation?
What did you think of Summer's new training?
Will Summer be able to confront Weldon?
