Summer and Blaze continued their training on Dewford Island with the help of Jayden and Harry. However, this caused friction between her and Weldon, and the latter decided to end his involvement with Summer's training. To help ease her mind, Jayden suggested the pair to venture to the farthest point in nearby Granite Cave. They did just that and encountered Harry and eventually Steven Stone, who showed them the famous murals depicting scenes of Legendary Pokémon. Summer and Steven then talked about Weldon's state of mind, and she hopes to still help him. The month-long martial arts training is quickly coming to an end, meaning Summer's Gym battle against Brawly will soon begin. Will their special training overcome Brawly's fighting style, or will it backfire against them?
Chapter 15- A Back and Forth Brawl
On our final training day, Blaze and I faced off against Jayden and his Hariyama. Harry and Lightning watched a ways back.
Jayden grinned. "All right, Summer and Blaze! Here comes the battle I promised you. Remember everything we taught you and show us how much you've improved!"
I exchanged smiles. "You got it, Jayden!" I took in a deep breath. All right, Summer. It's time to show our improved bond.
I looked at Blaze, who nodded confidently. With his approval, I threw my left fist forward. "Blaze, Fire Punch!"
His left hand burst into flames as he charged at Hariyama.
Jayden thrust his right hand in front of him. "Block with Force Palm!"
Hariyama followed his Trainer's motion and blocked Blaze's punch with a large glowing orange hand.
Undeterred, I countered, "Blaze Kick!"
I lifted my right knee, and Blaze continued the motion, hitting Hariyama in the head. The Sumo Pokémon stumbled back, but he remained on his feet.
Jayden was invigorated. "That's it, Summer! Now, let's see how you handle this! Brick Break!"
Both Trainer and Pokémon chopped downward. I lifted my right arm in a defensive position, and Blaze did the same. He was able to stop the attack but struggled to maintain his stability. Instead of second guessing myself, I immediately stepped back. Blaze followed my lead and Hariyama had to regain his footing.
"Now, Sky Uppercut!"
Blaze and I swung our right fists upward, with the former hitting his opponent's chin. Hariyama almost left the ground, but his massive weight kept him on the sand.
Seeing his Pokémon panting, Jayden stepped forward. "I think we should leave it there."
I nodded, feeling a wave of relief. "Good work, Blaze."
"You too, Summer."
We exchanged high fives as Harry and Lightning clapped.
"That was incredible, Summer!" the novice surfer praised. "I can't believe you improved so much in just one month."
I rubbed the back of my head. "Thanks, Harry."
"I second that," Jayden added as he recalled his Pokémon. "You even surprised me how quickly you could've beaten Hariyama." Beaming, he announced, "I say you've passed; our training is now complete."
I wiped my brow and bowed. "Thank you, Coach."
"Oh, you flatter me. So, you ready for the Gym battle?"
I shrugged. "I mean, I'm ready as I can be, but the nerves will get worse when it gets closer."
"So, when are you going to challenge Dad?" Harry asked.
I crossed my arms. "I believe it's on Saturday around 10."
"Oh! Do you mind if I come and watch? I haven't seen a Gym battle in a while."
Jayden laughed. "Me either. Can I join as well?"
I smiled. "Sure, both of you can come." Then I paused.
"What's up, Summer?"
"Well, two things. One, would Marisa be interested in watching?"
"Hm," her older brother mused. "I'm sure she will, but I think you're worried about Saenchai, right?" After I nodded, he answered, "I'll talk with Master Brawly and make sure he doesn't interfere with the match."
"Thanks."
"And what's the second thing?"
I fixed my ponytail. "It's...about Weldon."
"Oh. Have you been able to get in contact with him?"
"No… But I haven't heard of him leaving the island. Then again, I haven't been around the pier to check."
Harry smirked. "Don't worry, Summer, I've seen him around. Plus, if he does leave, I told the dock manager to let me know."
I relaxed. "Thank goodness."
Jayden crossed his arms. "Still, you should focus on the Gym battle first. After that, I'll help you reconcile with Weldon."
"Really? You don't have to do that though."
He looked down. "I still can't help but feel responsible."
Knowing he's heard my responses so many times, I relented. "All right. Thanks, Jayden."
Harry noticed the sun setting. "We should get back before it gets too dark."
The martial artist replied, "Sounds good. Summer, go get some rest. You'll need it against Master Brawly."
"Okay. Thanks for training me, you two."
"It's the least I can do to make up for our short rivalry back in Saffron City," Jayden said with a sheepish grin.
Harry added, "It was nice to see someone train for competitive battles again." He took one last look at the ocean before we walked back to town.
After we separated, I healed Blaze at the Pokémon Center, took a nice shower, and headed to the cafeteria for some dinner. Though Lightning enjoyed her homemade Pokémon food, I couldn't help but worry about Weldon. I looked at the orange sky turning dark purple and sighed.
I know I should be focusing on tomorrow, but what if it's too late? What if I never see Weldon again?
Lightning poked me. "Don't be so down, Summer. Like the boys said, they'll help you."
"I know. I just...I just don't want to lose all the progress we made together. I enjoyed my time with him, both during training sessions and the fun activities. And...I thought he enjoyed them too, in his own way."
Suddenly, the Raichu's ears perked up.
"What's up, Lightning?"
She turned to the entrance, and I did the same. However, no one was there.
"That's odd," she mused. "I thought I heard Weldon's footsteps."
"Hm… I do want to investigate, but if it was him, I still shouldn't confront him yet. After all, I should give him space, just like Steven recommended."
We finished our meal, and I spent the rest of the night strategizing.
A few days later…
I left the Pokémon Center and breathed in the fresh morning air. Since Lightning was going to battle today, I decided to save her strength by going to the Gym alone. Not only that, I felt it was appropriate to wear my training clothes to this match. Hopefully it'll be able to help me battle better with Blaze.
I followed the wooden signs to the Dewford Town Gym. After about ten minutes walking along a large upwards, unpaved trail towards the center of the island, I reached the top of a small hill where a large white building stood over the surrounding trees. It was a rectangular structure with a yellow-orange roof and three oval ridges adorned over the PLA logo at the entrance. I entered the building through the sturdy wooden doors and found myself in a room decorated to look like I was in the middle of the ocean. The glass display cases showed a mixture of martial arts and surfing awards, celebratory framed photographs, and miniature surfboard figurines. But two photographs caught my eye. One was a large one framed in driftwood over the desk, showing a beaming Brawly with a smiling Harry. The second, placed over a small glass display with a figurine, was a picture of an older, powerfully built man with a huge grin. He wore blue pants with gray circles on the sides, an orange belt and boots, and orange and blue bands around his lower arms and wrists. A thin blue mask with white feathers protruded over his eyebrows. He was kneeling down next to a beaming boy with short blue hair, an orange shirt and blue pants.
I stroked my chin. The photo over the counter looks really recent since Harry's in his surfing outfit. But the other one looks older. Could it be Brawly when he was younger? And who is he posing with?
A woman's sharp voice startled me. "Hi there. Are you here for the martial arts class?"
I whipped my head towards the driftwood desk with a surfboard counter. The woman, with long blue hair, a matching hot pink crop top and shorts, and blue fingerless gloves and shoes, looked at me firmly.
"Oh, sorry! No, I'm here for the Gym battle at 10."
"Let me see…" She sat down and looked at her computer. "Summer Scorcher?" After I nodded, she said, "Master Brawly's still in the middle of a class, so you can wait here in the lobby. I can let you know when you're able to enter the battlefield."
"Thanks."
She walked down a hallway and opened a door, the shouts echoing from inside. After it closed, I found a seat on a surfboard bench.
I guess I should review Brawly's information again. I pulled out my Pokégear and went to the PLA app.
"Brawly, known as 'A Big Wave in Fighting', is a young surfer specializing in Fighting types. Originally from the Kanto Region where he studied as a martial artist, he decided to move to Hoenn to further his surfing pastime. Thanks to training with famed martial artists such as Bruno and Kiyo, Brawly has developed his own fighting style that mimics the balance and flexibility needed for riding the waves of Dewford Island. Not only is he a local surfing and martial arts favorite, he also provides data for the Hoenn Tsunami Watch and maintenance of Granite Cave."
I leaned back and stared at the ceiling, which was painted to show the sun and a flock of Wingull. Wow...he's so accomplished despite his age. He really will be a tough opponent. I hope all the training was worth it.
The front doors opened and I saw Jayden, Harry, and Marisa burst inside.
"Whew!" Harry gasped. "Hey, Summer. I thought we'd be late!"
I shook my head. "Your dad's still in his class."
He made an okay hand sign. "Cool."
Marisa smiled as she scanned my outfit. "Looks like you're ready for a fight."
"Oh, yeah. I felt wearing this was appropriate for this match. Thanks again for giving me the clothes, Marisa."
She beamed. "I'm so happy you like the outfit, Summer!" Then she glanced at a Poké Ball on her belt. "I do hope Saenchai will behave this time. After all, we need to pay attention."
I raised an eyebrow. "Pay attention?"
She rubbed the back of her head. "Oh, yeah. I never told you. I'm actually planning to participate in the Hoenn League. I'm hoping this challenge will help me bond with Saenchai!"
"Wow, that's exciting! Maybe we'll run into each other later on."
"I hope so too!"
The receptionist returned to the room. "Summer, Master Brawly's ready for you." Then she noticed my entourage and frowned. "Oh, it looks like we have a crowd today."
Jayden smirked. "Come on, Shauna. You're just saying that 'cause you don't want to do the full post-match cleanup."
"Shut up, Jayden," she growled. "You know I have to practice for my red belt exam."
"Fifth time's the charm huh?"
Shauna slammed her hands on the desk. "Don't push me, Jayden! You know I can flip you."
"Okay, okay!" he appeased, putting his hands up. "We'll help you clean up the bleachers and the field."
She puffed out her chest. "That's more like it. Now, you three know where to go. I'll see you inside, Summer."
I nodded and got up. The three wished me luck before I strode through the wooden doors.
To my surprise, the battlefield was surrounded by a floor composed of large reeds. The walls vertically transitioned from blue to green, and the large television was anchored firmly to the west wall. I stepped into the challenger's box just as my friends sat in the front center row.
Brawly walked out of the opposite wooden doors. He had a big grin on his face. "Welcome to my Gym, Summer!" he greeted. "Sorry for the long wait. The class ran longer than expected."
"That's okay, Brawly."
He stretched his arms. "Actually, I've been looking forward to this battle for quite some time."
"Oh, really?"
"Well, I do want Jayden and Harry back. They've been abandoning me more often ever since you showed up."
"Dad!" Harry wailed. "Stop teasing us!"
His dad chuckled. "You know I'm just kidding, Harry. But in all honesty, I want to see if the training's paying off. Jayden has the makings of a great instructor, and I wanna see if he meets my expectations."
I smirked. "He has, and I'm ready to prove it."
Brawly pulled his sleeves up. "Then let's get it started."
Shauna approached the referee's box and shouted, "This match will be a three-on-three singles battle between Summer Scorcher from Littleroot Town and Master Brawly, the Dewford Town Gym Leader. The challenger is allowed to switch her Pokémon and will have the first move. The winner will be decided when the opponent's Pokémon are unable to battle. Master Brawly, please choose your first Pokémon!"
Brawly hurled a Poké Ball into the air. "Surf's up, Stokes!"
A Hitmontop appeared on the field, stretching his legs.
So he's starting with a Hitmontop. That does kind of fit with his style. Let's see if she can keep up with him. "Go, Lightning!"
The Raichu leaped out of her ball and landed on all fours. She pawed the ground, eager to begin her first Hoenn Gym battle.
"Looks like Lightning's pretty lively," the Gym Leader noted. "Let's see how you can handle our fighting power."
Shauna waved her arms. "Battle begin!"
I waved my right hand forward. "Lightning, use Quick Attack!"
She dashed towards Stokes in a blinding white light. Thanks to the training on the beach, she was able to get close to her opponent in just a few seconds.
Brawly, however, remained calm. "Stokes, Detect!"
The Fighting type's eyes flashed yellow. Both Trainer and Pokémon then stepped out of the way, as if they were on a surfboard. This caused Lightning to run past Stokes.
Brawly countered with his right leg up, "Triple Kick!"
The Hitmontop flipped onto his pointed head and spun around, kicking Lightning three times. She slid back to our side, but she shook off the attack.
That's some defense! No wonder why Brawly's a great fighter and surfer. I clenched my fist. "Thunder Punch!"
But as she charged her attack, the martial artist threw a left jab. "Sucker Punch!"
Stokes sped forward and followed his Trainer's motion, striking the Raichu's body with a black aura. She slammed into the wall behind us.
I gritted my teeth. I forgot about Sucker Punch! Thinking quickly, I shouted, "Use Iron Tail to propel yourself out of the wall!"
She opened her eyes, curled her silver tail, and used it to create a cushion between her and the wall. Once she could touch the barrier with her feet, she sprung forward and tackled Stokes. He slammed into the wall behind Brawly, but he was able to free himself and return to the field.
"Not bad," Brawly complimented. "I've heard about your style from Roxanne, but I never expected you to be so creative."
I gave him a confident smile. "I didn't spend all of my training time with Blaze."
He smirked. "As you should." Then he lifted his left leg and commanded, "Triple Kick!"
The Hitmontop spun forward, his legs extended.
I braced myself, as did my Pokémon. Doing this allowed me to focus on the sequence of the kicks. "Lightning, dodge right, left, right!"
She did just that, avoiding all three strikes. But Stokes continued his spinning, cornering Lightning by the southwest portion of the field.
I remained calm and remembered what I learned. Jayden said I should focus on a Fighting type's weak spot to get full control. Let's do just that. "Lightning, use Iron Tail on Stokes's head!"
She swung her silver tail sideways towards the ground, and he jumped up to dodge it.
I smirked. "Now, Thunderbolt!"
But as she charged her cheeks, Brawly countered, "Sucker Punch!"
Stokes struck Lightning with another sneaky punch, but she was able to continue her attack. The lightning bolt pushed him back, but the constant sneak attacks were taking their toll on the Raichu.
I gritted my teeth. I can't get Lightning hit by Sucker Punch anymore. I gotta change my strategy. "Lightning, return!"
She nodded and went back into her ball. Brawly was intrigued but remained silent.
I threw my second choice into the air. "Go, Errol!"
The Noctowl flew above the ground, ready for his first Gym battle as well.
The Gym Leader wryly smiled before he and Stokes returned to their fighting positions. I knew what he was thinking: it was a type disadvantage for him.
Shauna announced, "Battle begin!"
I waved my hand. "Errol, Confusion!"
The Flying type's eyes began to glow blue.
Brawly quickly shouted with a right jab, "Stokes, Sucker Punch!"
As the black aura grew closer, I smirked. "Errol, switch to Hypnosis!"
Errol's eyes quickly turned red, causing three white rings to appear and hit the Hitmontop. The Sucker Punch faded, and Stokes fell onto the field, asleep.
Brawly smirked, trying to hide his worry. "Come on, Stokes! You gotta wake up before the wave hits!"
But the Handstand Pokémon continued his slumber.
I took advantage of this rare opportunity. "Errol, Air Slash!"
He threw the swirling air orb at Stokes, causing dust to fly around the room. When it cleared, Stokes opened his eyes but struggled to his feet.
Brawly clenched his fist. "Don't give into the tsunami, Stokes! Rock Slide!"
Stokes raised his arms and formed boulders above us.
That's a surprise! "Errol, dodge!"
He tried to fly around them, but their size was too great. One hit his back, and he slammed into the ground.
"Errol, are you okay?"
"Of course, Ms. Summer!" He slowly returned to the sky, but his flapping was more forced.
I didn't expect Stokes to know Rock Slide. But I wonder…
Brawly's voice snapped me out of my thoughts. "Stokes, finish Errol with Rock Slide!"
As the boulder shower occurred again, I commanded, "Errol, control the rocks with Psychic!"
Without hesitation, his eyes glowed magenta. The rocks closest to him became surrounded by the magenta energy and stopped in mid-air. However, he struggled to maintain control.
With the battle back in his favor, Brawly shouted, "Stokes, Sucker Punch!"
As the Fighting type prepared his attack, I gave Errol encouragement. "Don't give up, Errol! Increase your control with Confusion!"
He nodded, and now his eyes glowed a deep purple. The energy around the rocks reflected the same color as Errol's eyes, and he was able to swing the rocks at the charging Hitmontop. Stokes tried to break through, but the combination of mental and physical prowess overpowered him. He slammed into the battlefield. Though the remaining rocks whittled the others into small pieces, Stokes remained on the ground.
Shauna waved her arms. "Stokes is unable to battle! Errol wins! Master Brawly, please choose your next Pokémon!"
The Gym Leader returned his Pokémon. "Thanks, Stokes. You surfed well today." Then, he laughed. "Clever strategy, Summer. I expected all of your Pokémon to just have attacking moves, but you certainly had a trick up your sleeve yourself."
I clenched my fist and gave him a confident nod. "Thanks, Brawly. He helped me come up with that strategy."
"Oh?" he mused, stroking his chin. "I have a feeling you're not talking about Jayden or Harry."
His words startled me. "Y-Yeah...it was someone else. Another person who helped me train for this battle."
Though he didn't press more, I felt like he knew who that was. "Well, let's not get too distracted from the match, shall we?" He threw a Great Ball into the air. "Surf's up, Seiche!"
A thin gray Pokémon with what looked like puffy red pants and a red headpiece materialized. Yellow stripes and spots adorned her pants and headpiece, giving her a mystical vibe. She stood on her right foot, her dark eyes focusing on her clasped hands.
[Medicham, the Meditate Pokémon and the evolved form of Meditite. Through crushingly harsh yoga training, it gained the power to foretell its foe's actions. It battles with elegant, dance-like movement.]
So that's what Tomoko's Meditite would evolve into. That means she's not a pure Fighting type. This is going to be difficult. I looked at Errol, who was panting hard. That last battle drained a lot of his energy, and he used a lot of mental power to control those rocks. Should I let him rest?
As if reading my thoughts, he protested, "I can continue, Ms. Summer! At least allow me to aid our teammates before I fall!"
I felt his determination and replied, "All right. Let's do this, Errol!"
Shauna waved her arms. "Battle begin!"
"Errol, Air Slash!"
He raised his right wing and formed the orb of air. Then, he threw it at Seiche, who waited for her Trainer's command.
Brawly threw his hands forward. "Light Screen!"
The Medicham made the same motion, and a large, translucent yellow barrier formed around her. The Air Slash passed through, but its size was greatly reduced and did less damage than normal.
I forced a smile. Looks like Brawly has more few tricks up his sleeve.
The Gym Leader then shouted, "Seiche, use Confusion!"
She closed her eyes and moved her fingers in a rhythm-like manner, and the latter eventually glowed blue.
I can't let Errol lose the height advantage! I countered, "Errol, use Psychic!"
His eyes glowed magenta, and he tried to control her body. But with the strain from the earlier battle, he was forced to shoot the blob of energy at her.
"Now, Seiche!"
She opened her eyes and was able to stop the Psychic attack in mid-air. Using her arms, she threw the combined attack back at its user. Errol was unable to move out of the way and was hit in the chest. He slammed into the battlefield and remained there.
"Errol is unable to battle! Seiche wins! Summer, please choose your next Pokémon!"
I ran over to the Noctowl, who struggled to his feet. "Don't exert yourself too much, Errol. You used a lot of energy, remember?"
"I...I know, Ms. Summer… I apologize for not doing more."
I petted his head. "You did plenty. Now, get some rest."
He weakly smiled as he returned to his ball. Once I returned to the challenger's box, I knew who'd be next. "Go, Lightning!"
The Raichu returned to the field, ready for her new opponent.
"Battle begin!"
Since the Light Screen will reduce the damage from Thunderbolt, I should focus on physical attacks for now. "Lightning, Quick Attack!"
She jumped forward and ran full speed at Seiche.
Brawly smirked and stretched out his hands. "Just as I expected. Confusion!"
The Medicham took hold of Lightning with her psychic powers and threw her back. The Electric type was able to land on all fours and slide back, reducing the damage.
Confusion's going to be a pain, but I wonder if we can use it to our advantage? "Lightning, use Thunderbolt!"
She was a little confused, but she performed the attack anyway.
The Gym Leader was cautious, but he instructed his Pokémon, "Seiche, use Confusion again!"
She stopped the lightning bolt before it struck her and returned it to its user.
However, the result wouldn't be the same as last time. "Now, Quick Attack!"
Lightning leapt over her attack and slammed into Seiche's body. She buckled from the Normal type move, but was able to regain her balance. Lightning slid back to our side of the field, brimming with confidence.
"Looks like a sneaker wave caught us," Brawly noted. Then he smirked and formed a right fist. "Then we better go on the offensive! Seiche, Drain Punch!"
A dark green orb with yellow streaks of light surrounded the Fighting type's right hand.
Drain Punch? I've never heard of that move before. But I can't let that stop us. "Lightning, counter with Thunder Punch!"
We formed a right fist of our own, and Lightning charged at her opponent. Both Pokémon swung their punches and made contact. However, the Seiche's punch pushed the Electric type back to our side. Not only that, the Drain Punch absorbed some of Lightning's health.
I gritted my teeth. So it's a physical absorbing move. I was afraid of that.
After Lightning struggled to return on all fours, Brawly raised his right arm. "Brick Break!"
Seiche swung her hand onto Lightning's back, crushing her into the battlefield. Though she was sprawled on the ground, the Raichu forced herself back up with her willpower. Just then, sparks coursed from her body to Seiche's and the Meditate Pokémon winced from the paralysis. The Light Screen wall also faded around her, returning the field conditions to normal.
"Are you okay, Lightning?" I asked as she returned to her feet.
She was panting, but was able to say, "Y-Yeah…"
Brawly was impressed by Lightning's tenacity. "I've never seen such a determined Raichu before. She may not have the Fighting typing, but she certainly is a fighter."
I gave an acknowledging smile. "Well, she did learn from one of the best."
He laughed. "I see." The pair formed a fighting pose. "Then show us more of what you got!"
With his encouragement, I continued the battle. "Lightning, Thunder Punch!"
She nodded and charged at her opponent.
"Stay strong, Seiche," Brawly said as the sparks coursed through his Pokémon. "Brick Break!"
Lightning punched the Medicham in the stomach just as the latter chopped her right hand onto the Raichu's back. The Electric type collapsed first, with the Pokémon following close after. Both of them remained lying on the battlefield.
"Both Lightning and Seiche are unable to battle! Master Brawly, Summer, choose your final Pokémon!"
"Lightning!" I cried as I ran towards her.
She heard my voice and opened her eyes. "S-Sorry, Summer."
"Hey, you did really well. Get some rest okay?"
But she pushed her ball back. "C-Can I see Blaze battle?"
I nodded. "Sure."
I looked towards the stands and saw Jayden. "Can you let Lightning watch?"
"Sure thing, Summer!"
I returned Lightning and threw her Poké Ball at him. Jayden caught it and began to heal her with several Super Potions.
I walked back to the challenger's box just as Brawly finished returning Seiche.
"You surfed excellently, Seiche." He looked at me with a determined smile. "This match's turning out more fun than I ever imagined. But I'm sure you know what happens next." He plucked a gray Poké Ball with blue concave indents from his belt.
"Surf's up, Surge!"
His ace Pokémon, a Hariyama, towered over me.
Surge is definitely bigger and more experienced that Jayden's Hariyama. But we've come too far to quit. I gripped my last Poké Ball. All right, Blaze. Let's show everyone the results of our training. "Let's go, Blaze!"
The Blaziken materialized, his arms by his sides. We nodded at each other and prepared for our biggest challenge yet.
In the stands, Harry was on the edge of his seat. "This match has been amazing so far! I've never seen Dad so engrossed like this in recent Gym challenges."
"You can say that again!" Marisa exclaimed. "I can see why Summer's a top Trainer. Oh yeah." She took out a Poké Ball. "Is it okay to…?"
Jayden, who was almost done healing Summer's Raichu, looked up. "It's fine, Marisa. Master Brawly turned on the audience interference barrier. So even if Saenchai wanted to hurt Blaze, he won't be able to get through."
Harry leaned back. "Even so, we should still keep an eye out."
Lightning's ears perked up and she looked at the entrance. Everyone did the same, but no one was there.
"That's a little weird," the wushu specialist noted.
Harry, however, got up. "Let me investigate. You two should focus on the match."
The fighters nodded, and the young surfer left the room. Marisa let out the feisty Saenchai, who glared at Lightning before reluctantly watching his rival from the sidelines.
Shauna waved her arms. "Battle begin!"
I waved my arm. "Flamethrower!"
Blaze sprayed a stream of fire directly at Surge.
Brawly pushed his right hand forward. "Block it with Force Palm!"
The Hariyama made the same motion, and a large orange aura in the shape of his palm split the Flamethrower apart.
I saw the Gym Leader and his Pokémon slide into a defensive position. I see what Brawly's doing. He wants to make this a close range fight.
My Pokémon sensed my thoughts and patiently wait for my command.
I nodded and shouted as I made a right fist, "Fire Punch!"
Blaze used his legs to reach Surge at lightning speed and raised his right arm.
Brawly smirked and shouted, "Force Palm!"
The physical attacks made contact, but Blaze powered through and struck Surge in the stomach. The Fighting type stood his ground, but the punch did some decent damage.
"Not bad, Summer," Brawly acknowledged as Blaze jumped back to our side. "But let's see how you handle our long-range move! Brine!"
The heavier Pokémon lifted his arms and released a strong stream of water.
I gritted my teeth. I didn't expect this! But I can't let this get to me! "Blaze, dodge and use Blaze Kick!"
He leapt over the super effective attack and descended with his right leg first.
The Gym Leader, in response, braced himself. "Vital Throw!"
Surge stopped the Blaze Kick by slamming into Blaze's foot with his body. He then grabbed the temporarily stunned Blaze and threw him into the battlefield. The Blaziken winced, but the damage was not as bad thanks to our training.
"Now, Surge, Force Palm!"
As I lifted my left knee, I shouted, "Get outta there with Blaze Kick!"
Blaze swung his left leg at Surge's foot, causing the latter to focus on maintaining his balance. Then the Blaze Pokémon used his other leg to push his opponent back, allowing him enough space to safely return to his feet.
The surfer grinned as he wiped his brow. "Now this is a Fighting type battle. Surge, multiple Force Palms!"
The Hariyama raised his hands and charged at Blaze.
My Pokémon and I looked at each other, giving acknowledging nods. I made a one-two punch combination, then shouted, "Blaze, counter with Fire Punch!"
Blaze met Surge at the center of the field, and the Fighting types exchanged blows, dodges and blocks. This time, I limited my movements and remained focused on Blaze's. Then, when Blaze evaded a Force Palm that exposed Surge's right side, we swung a left hook at the area, weakening the Hariyama. A dark red burn area appeared, causing Surge to clutch his side. However, Brawly smirked.
Blaze leapt back, and we returned to our fighting stances, knowing something was up.
"Thanks for that boost, Summer!" Brawly raised his arms and punched forward. "Facade!"
A dark orange power surrounded the Arm Thrust Pokémon, and he pressed forward. We lifted our arms in a diagonal cross pattern to block it. But when Surge pushed him back, the Blaziken couldn't maintain his stance and fell.
"Blaze! Are you okay?"
He rose to his feet, slightly panting. "I...I'm fine…"
I gritted my teeth. I forgot Surge's Ability is Guts. Weldon told me that most status conditions strengthen the move.
Our opponents returned to their fighting stances, though Surge winced from the burn. "So what will you do now, Summer?" the Gym Leader inquired.
I stroked my chin. They want us to make the first attack, but I have a feeling when we get close it'll be another trap… Wait a minute…if he has Guts, then that means… I waved my right hand towards the floor. "Blaze, use Flamethrower on the ground!"
He leaped into the air and sprayed fire all over the battlefield. The room and the floor quickly grew hot, causing Surge to bounce back and forth to withstand the heat.
Brawly was taken aback. "So that's your strategy, huh? Well we're not letting a fire tsunami beat us! Surge, use Brine to cool the field!"
His Pokémon shot multiple streams of water towards the ground, causing steam to cover the field.
I clenched my right fist with triumph. Perfect. I swung my fist upwards. "Now, Blaze! Sky Uppercut!"
Using the cover of the vapor, I saw Blaze's silhouette dash forward and strike Surge in the chin. The tremendous force launched the heavier Pokémon into the air, and he crashed into the ground. When the steam cleared, we were surprised to see Surge on his feet. We immediately returned to our fighting stances, but then, the Hariyama fell forward, motionless.
Shauna analyzed Surge, then raised her arms. "Surge is unable to battle! Blaze wins, and the match goes to Summer Scorcher!"
I wiped my brow and took several deep breaths. "W-We did it…" I buckled over, but Blaze was able to catch me.
He chuckled. "Did we overdo it?"
After returning to my feet, I replied, holding back a laugh, "I'm fine, Blaze. Thanks for worrying about me."
Brawly and Surge, who was eating a Rawst Berry, approached us. The former, his shirt drenched with sweat, beamed. "Looks like I can't catch a break with those sneaker waves of yours. I couldn't tell if I was on the beach or in my dojo. You really are something, Summer. The strength and bond with your Pokémon is very impressive."
"Thanks, Brawly."
He took something out of his pants pocket then showed it to me. It was a light blue boxing glove pin with an orange sphere that gave it a 3D look. "You conquered the big waves and fists of my Gym, so you deserve the Knuckle Badge."
I accepted the reward, and after I placed it into my Badge Case, I shivered.
The Gym Leader laughed. "Looks like your adrenaline's wearing off. Come on, let's head into the lobby. I wanna check in with everyone."
This is a little unexpected. "S-Sure…"
We returned our Pokémon and exited the room. There, Harry and Lightning stood by the doors.
Lightning jumped into my arms. "That was amazing, Summer! I'm so happy you and Blaze won!"
I looked at her and smiled. "Thanks, Lightning." Then I asked Harry, "Are Jayden and Marisa helping Shauna clean up?"
"Yeah."
Brawly frowned and placed his hands on his hips. "Harry, why aren't you helping?"
His son sheepishly shrugged. "Well... Jayden told me not to worry about it, Dad. Plus, there was something more pressing." He looked at the stairway to the bleachers. "Come on out, you don't want her waiting any longer."
To my shock, Weldon appeared.
"W-Weldon..." I stuttered.
He tried to avoid my eyes. "H-Hey, Summer..."
Harry nudged my rival. "Come on, Weldon. Don't be so hesitant."
He glared at the novice surfer before returning his gaze to me. His eyes reflected a sense of regret. "Summer. I...I'm sorry about how I acted a few weeks ago. I had some internal conflicts about something, and I took it out on you. I didn't realize how much I made you suffer because my struggles. I want to keep traveling with you and training you, if that's okay. I...l understand if you don't want to."
The sincerity in his voice moved me. "Weldon, thank you. Of course I want to keep traveling with you. To be honest, I wasn't going to leave the island until I found you."
He relaxed and gave me a big smile.
Brawly chuckled. "I'm glad you came around, Weldon."
"Thanks to talking with you and Harry, Brawly."
I raised an eyebrow. Did they meet while I was training? I wondered what they talked about.
But Harry's voice brought me back to reality. "So, Summer. Does this mean you two will be leaving soon?"
I nodded sadly. "Our next stop will be Slateport City."
"I see." He then turned to the Gym Leader. "Dad. I've been thinking a lot lately about something."
"Oh? What about?"
"I...I'm actually thinking about traveling again. Just around Hoenn, not anywhere far."
Brawly leaned on the reception desk. "May I ask why?"
Harry looked at us. "Learning about Weldon's history and seeing Summer train and battle today, I finally realized why I haven't been able to continue my journey as a Trainer." Turning to his dad, he continued, "I kind of lost my passion for battling since winning the Hoenn League because I wanted to focus on restoring my bond with you. So much so that I didn't want to leave, or I guess, abandon you again. I...I haven't been a good son to you for most of my life, and I wanted to make you proud of me."
To his surprise, Brawly hugged him and reassured, "Harry, you don't have to feel that way. I appreciate your efforts to help around the Gym and learn how to surf, but you don't need to do all of those things to make me happy. You've done just that by what you told me. You learned from your mistakes and are now willing to move forward. I'm proud to have you as my son, and I know you can conquer any wave that tries to push you back."
"D-Dad..." After they let go, Harry wiped his eyes. "To be honest, I really do like surfing. Would it be okay if I also participated in the surfing competitions around the region?"
"Of course! I'm sure you'll do well. Heck, maybe I should judge the ones you'll be entering."
"Dad!"
The two laughed, and I felt a strong kinship between them.
Jayden and Marisa then entered the lobby. I noticed Weldon didn't flinch when they appeared.
"Master Brawly, we finished the post-match cleaning," the older martial artist said.
"Cool, thanks, Jayden and Marisa. Everyone wanna get some ice cream? My treat."
"Yeah!" Harry exclaimed. "Last one there has to spin the Dewford Disk of Chance!"
I tilted my head. "The Dewford Disk of Chance?"
Everyone else ran out of the building, leaving me and Lightning inside.
"H-Hey!" We caught up with them and enjoyed delicious ice cream and the last day in Dewford Town.
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's Gym battle?
What did Weldon talk about with Brawly and Harry?
Will Summer and Weldon encounter Harry as they continue their travels?
How will Summer's trip to Slateport City go?
