Ashley stepped through the grand, sliding doors of the Fuchsia City Gym, her heart pounding with excitement. The atmosphere inside was dim, with flickering torches casting eerie shadows along the walls. The faint scent of incense hung in the air, adding to the mysterious, almost theatrical vibe. She could already tell this Gym wasn't going to be straightforward—and that only made her grin wider.

As she approached the front desk, a young attendant in a sleek black uniform looked up and greeted her with a polite bow. "Welcome to the Fuchsia City Gym. Are you here to challenge Leader Koga?"

"You bet I am," Ashley said, adjusting her bag. "I've been looking forward to this."

The attendant gave her a sharp nod but didn't reach for any paperwork or registration forms. Instead, she gestured toward the back of the room, where the faint outline of a maze loomed, walls rising high and twisting unpredictably. "To earn the right to battle Leader Koga, you must first make it through the ninja maze. It's designed to test your reflexes, instincts, and ability to handle traps. Be warned—hidden ninjas are stationed inside. If you're caught, you'll be forced back to the start."

Ashley's grin only widened. "A ninja maze? Seriously? That's so cool."

The attendant blinked, clearly not expecting that reaction. Most challengers groaned at the mention of traps. But Ashley was already reaching for her belt, plucking Vulcan's Poké Ball and releasing her trusty Growlithe in a flash of light.

Vulcan stretched as he emerged, shaking out his fur and giving an eager bark as his tail wagged. Ashley knelt down and ran her fingers through his thick fur, lowering her voice so only he could hear. "Alright, buddy. This maze is full of ambushes and traps, but I'm counting on your nose to sniff out the right path and avoid the ninjas. Think you're up for the challenge?"

Vulcan barked again, sharper this time, and gave her an enthusiastic nudge with his head. Ashley laughed and straightened up, brushing off her skirt as she adjusted her bag. "Let's do this."

The moment they stepped into the maze, the air thickened, like the walls themselves were closing in to listen. The torches along the narrow corridors flickered, their flames casting jagged shadows that danced ominously across the stone. Ashley swallowed, her fingers brushing against Vulcan's fur for reassurance. The Growlithe didn't flinch. His ears twitched, nose pressed low to the ground as he padded forward, his tail wagging just enough to let her know he wasn't spooked—just focused.

"Alright, buddy," Ashley murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're in charge. Sniff us out of this mess."

Vulcan let out a quiet bark, his paws moving with purpose as he veered left. Ashley followed, keeping her steps light and mimicking the crouched, stealthy posture she'd seen in those ninja flicks she'd grown up watching. It didn't stop her heart from hammering every time she caught movement in the corner of her eye. Shadows shifted along the walls, but no one ever stepped out—yet.

At an intersection, Vulcan stopped suddenly, his nose working overtime as he sniffed both paths. Ashley tensed. The air felt heavier here, like it was buzzing with unseen energy. Vulcan turned sharply to the right, his ears flicking as he growled low in his throat.

"Hold it," Ashley hissed, reaching out to touch Vulcan's back, her fingers brushing through his fur. He froze, muscles tight as he stared into the dimly lit corridor ahead. Ashley followed his gaze—and saw it.

A flicker of movement, too quick to be natural. Before she could even process it, a figure dropped silently from the ceiling, landing with a predatory grace. Ashley instinctively took a step back, raising her arm in front of Vulcan, but the figure didn't move closer. Instead, the ninja straightened, gave her an almost playful smirk, and then vanished back into the shadows, his footsteps echoing faintly before fading altogether.

Ashley let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "Nope. No way. We're not dealing with that," she muttered under her breath, swiping at the sweat gathering on her brow.

Vulcan gave a low rumble in agreement before trotting down the opposite corridor, his nose leading the way. Ashley followed closely, her eyes darting from shadow to shadow, but the deeper they went, the more the maze seemed to twist around them. The walls felt closer now, the passages tighter, and the flickering torchlight made it impossible to tell what was real and what was illusion.

More than once, Ashley swore she saw flashes of movement—a streak of black cloth, the gleam of a kunai—but Vulcan never hesitated. His paws stayed sure, his nose never faltered, and he led her through narrow bends and sharp turns with the confidence of a Pokémon born to navigate chaos.

At one point, they passed a wooden dummy rigged with kunai traps, the blades still faintly trembling as though someone had triggered it seconds before they arrived. Ashley gave it a wide berth, whispering, "Not today, thanks." Vulcan paused just long enough to growl at it before leading her onward.

The maze seemed endless—corridors looping back on themselves, walls that shifted slightly when she wasn't looking—but Vulcan never doubted his path. Finally, after what felt like hours, Ashley saw the light.

The walls opened up abruptly, revealing a massive arena bathed in the warm glow of torches. The polished floor gleamed, almost too clean compared to the oppressive maze behind them. At the far end of the room, a raised platform loomed, shrouded in darkness. Ashley stepped forward cautiously, Vulcan pressing close to her leg.

Then—BOOM.

A cloud of purple smoke exploded from the platform, curling toward the ceiling as Ashley coughed and stumbled back. Vulcan barked, his hackles raised, but the smoke parted, revealing a figure in the center of the haze. Koga stood with his arms crossed, his expression sharp and unreadable, like he'd been carved from stone.

Ashley blinked rapidly as the smoke swirled around her feet. "Okay," she said, her voice echoing slightly in the vast chamber. "Not gonna lie—that was pretty cool."

Koga smirked, crossing his arms as the smoke faded. His sleek, dark ninja outfit blended perfectly with the shadows, and his sharp eyes locked onto Ashley like he could see straight through her. "Impressive," he said, his voice smooth but carrying an edge of authority. "Few make it through the maze on their first attempt. Fewer still avoid every ambush. Your Growlithe's senses must be as sharp as yours."

Ashley straightened, brushing ash off her pants. "Well, I had Vulcan," she replied, giving her Growlithe a quick scratch behind the ear. "He's got a nose for trouble. And ninjas."

Koga's expression softened just slightly, though his eyes remained sharp. "A bond between trainer and Pokémon is a weapon stronger than any technique. But I must warn you—this battle will not be so simple."

Ashley didn't flinch. Instead, she set her feet firmly and crossed her arms, matching Koga's confidence. "I wouldn't want it to be."

Koga's lips twitched into the faintest of smiles before he gestured toward the field. "Tell me, challenger—how many badges do you have?"

Ashley reached into her bag, pulling out her Volcano Badge and holding it up with pride. "Just one so far, but it's the Volcano Badge from Blaine."

Koga's eyes flickered with interest, and he nodded approvingly. "The Volcano Badge is not easily earned. Blaine does not hand out victories lightly."

Ashley shrugged but couldn't hide the pride in her voice. "We trained hard for it—and Blaine's training stuck with us. We're ready for whatever you've got."

Koga straightened; his demeanor sharpened like a blade. "Then you will find that I do not disappoint. This will be a two-on-two match."

Ashley's fingers brushed against her Poké Balls, her mind already racing with strategies. Vulcan barked, clearly eager to get started.

"Ready when you are," Ashley said, her voice steady despite the rush of adrenaline.

The battlefield remained thick with the fading haze of Koga's smoke bomb as the first Poké Ball arced through the air, snapping open in a burst of light. Out of it came a sleek, menacing Golbat, his wings spread wide as he hovered high above the battlefield. His fangs gleamed under the flickering torchlight, and his high-pitched screech echoed off the walls as he flapped in place, already scanning the field like a predator circling prey.

Koga stood tall, arms folded inside his sleeves, his sharp eyes locked on Ashley. "This is Golbat," he said, his voice calm but cutting. "He's fast, precise, and silent when he needs to be. Let's see how you handle him."

Ashley didn't flinch. Instead, she grinned, pulling out her own Poké Ball and tossing it forward with practiced ease. "Alright, Proserpina, let's show them what we've got!"

The ball popped open, and Proserpina materialized in a soft glow, her petals rustling as she landed gracefully on the battlefield floor. Her wide eyes scanned Golbat with calm focus, and a faint hum escaped her as she tilted her head, already analyzing her opponent.

Ashley crouched slightly, pointing toward Golbat. "We're playing this smart. Start with Sweet Scent!"

Proserpina swayed her leaves in a hypnotic rhythm, her petals trembling before releasing a shimmering pink mist that drifted upward like silk threads carried by the breeze. The aroma spread quickly, rich and intoxicating, layered with the sweetness of honey and undertones of ripe berries. It hung heavily in the air, wrapping the battlefield in an invisible haze. Golbat faltered mid-air, his wings stuttering as the alluring fragrance washed over him. His sharp, predatory eyes softened; the intense focus replaced with a glazed, dreamy look. His flight turned uneven, dipping dangerously close to the ground as he struggled to resist the scent's pull.

Koga narrowed his gaze, his lips curling into a faint smirk. "Don't get distracted, Golbat. Wing Attack!"

Golbat snapped his head up, his trance broken by Koga's sharp command. With a guttural screech, he launched himself forward, wings slicing through the air like twin blades. The gusts they created kicked up dust as he barreled toward Proserpina, cutting through the haze of Sweet Scent with sheer determination.

"Sunny Day!" Ashley called out, her voice rising above the sudden roar of Golbat's attack.

Proserpina lifted her head, her petals quivering before a radiant orb of light shot upward. It exploded high above them, releasing a cascade of golden rays that bathed the battlefield in dazzling brilliance. The light danced off the shimmering mist, refracting into prismatic glimmers. Golbat flinched mid-flight, his sensitive eyes squinting against the harsh glow. His wings clipped Proserpina's side as he flew past, but the hit was off-center, more of a glancing blow than a decisive strike.

Ashley clenched her fist, eyes blazing. "Perfect! Now, Stun Spore!"

Proserpina spun gracefully, her leaves shaking as a golden cloud of powder burst outward. The spores glittered under the intensified sunlight, each speck catching the light like tiny stars. Golbat screeched, flapping wildly as he tried to evade the shimmering cloud, but the residual effects of Sweet Scent slowed his reflexes just enough. The spores clung to his wings and body, their paralyzing properties sinking in. His movements turned jagged and uneven, and he dipped lower, struggling to keep himself airborne as the paralysis began to take hold.

Koga's eyes flashed, his calm demeanor cracking. "Golbat, fight through it! Air Cutter!"

Golbat steadied himself as best he could, forcing his wings to slice the air with renewed vigor. The gusts that followed formed sharp, crescent-shaped blades of wind that hurtled toward Proserpina.

"Growth, now!" Ashley shouted, urgency in her voice.

Proserpina planted her feet firmly, her leaves reaching toward the sunlight flooding the battlefield. They glowed a vibrant green, stretching outward as her form swelled slightly, absorbing energy from the light itself. The Air Cutter blades slammed into her, pushing her back a few steps, but she dug in, roots anchoring her as she withstood the attack. A determined glint shone in her eyes as the glow surrounding her intensified.

Ashley exhaled sharply, adrenaline buzzing in her veins. "Alright, girl, let's finish this! Swift!"

Proserpina twirled, her petals releasing a volley of glowing stars that shot forward in rapid succession. They streaked through the air like comets, each one leaving a faint golden trail in its wake. The stars rained down on Golbat, slamming into him repeatedly. He flinched and screeched, wings flailing, but the paralysis locked his joints mid-flap. Gravity took hold, and he dropped to the battlefield floor, his body shuddering as he struggled to rise.

Koga clenched his jaw, barking out a final command. "Get up! Use Leech Life!"

Ashley leaned forward, voice sharp as a blade. "Not happening! Absorb!"

Proserpina's leaves glowed once more, this time emitting soft, green tendrils of light that snaked out and wrapped around Golbat. The tendrils pulsed, draining the last remnants of Golbat's strength and transferring it back to Proserpina. Golbat writhed against the energy pull, but his movements grew weaker with every passing second. Golbat's struggle slowed, then stilled entirely. His wings sagged, and his eyes drifted closed.

Silence filled the battlefield before the ninja referee raised her arm. "Golbat is unable to battle! The victory goes to Ashley and Proserpina!"

Ashley pumped her fist, a wide grin breaking across her face as Proserpina swayed triumphantly. The sunlight glinted off her petals, and Ashley could already feel the thrill of the next challenge ahead.

Koga stood silently for a moment, then raised his hand and recalled Golbat into his Poké Ball with a quick flick of his wrist. "Well played," he said, his voice calm but with a sharp undertone of respect. "You predicted my movements and countered effectively. But don't celebrate just yet."

Ashley straightened, brushing sweat from her brow but unable to keep the grin off her face. She glanced at Proserpina, who stood proudly despite the cuts and scuffs marking her leaves. "You were amazing," Ashley said, crouching briefly to pat her gently. Proserpina hummed happily, already swaying in victory.

Koga drew his second Poké Ball, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips. "The first match was just the opening act," he said, holding the ball aloft. "Let's see how you handle the main event."

Ashley stood, her grin was back, sharp and determined. "Bring it on."

The tension in the battlefield, as smoke hissed from Koga's sleeves as he released his next Pokémon in a flash of light. Venomoth materialized midair, her delicate, powdery wings catching the arena's light as she hovered gracefully above the battlefield. Her compound eyes gleamed as she surveyed the field, her antennae twitching in anticipation.

Ashley's heart skipped, but she quickly steadied herself. Venomoth wasn't just a Bug-type—her Psychic abilities made her dangerous, and Ashley knew this wouldn't be easy. Still, she squared her shoulders and glanced down at Proserpina, who was already stepping forward.

"Still up for it?" Ashley asked, crouching slightly to meet her Gloom's determined gaze.

Proserpina hummed softly, her petals trembling as if itching for the next round. Ashley smirked. "That's my girl."

Koga's voice was calm but commanding. "Confusion."

Before Ashley could call out an order, Venomoth's compound eyes gleamed with a piercing light. Psychic energy rippled outward in a shimmering, undulating pulse that distorted the air like heatwaves on a summer day. The wave struck Proserpina dead-on, and the Grass-type staggered back, her wide eyes swirling as the mental attack seized her mind and twisted her focus.

Ashley's stomach dropped. "Proserpina, snap out of it! Focus!"

Proserpina swayed, her delicate petals trembling as she struggled against the disorienting haze clouding her senses. Her limbs moved sluggishly, as though she were pushing through deep water, and her balance faltered, nearly causing her to collapse.

"Quiver Dance."

Ashley's head snapped up. "Wait—what?"

Venomoth fluttered higher, her powdery wings glowing faintly as they began to move in a hypnotic rhythm. She spun in tight, mesmerizing circles, each rotation faster and more precise than the last. Sparkling powder flaked off her wings like glittering stardust, swirling around her in a radiant spiral. The light caught the dust, making it shimmer and pulse in time with her movement. Ashley clenched her fists. Quiver Dance was bad news—it wasn't just a boost; it was a game-changer, enhancing Venomoth's Speed, Special Attack, and Special Defense all at once. If Koga kept stacking boosts, this battle would end before Ashley had a chance to mount a real offense.

"Proserpina, use Sunny Day! Clear your head and blind her!"

Proserpina let out a shaky, warbling cry as she forced herself to focus. Her petals flared wide, catching the faint glimmers of light around her and amplifying them until a burst of golden sunlight erupted overhead. The battlefield was bathed in warm, blinding light, casting sharp shadows and intensifying the heat. Venomoth faltered, her hypnotic movements momentarily disrupted as the sudden brightness made it harder to keep her patterns precise. But Koga didn't give Ashley time to capitalize.

"Air Slash."

Venomoth dove, wings slicing downward with a force that compressed the air into a visible, razor-sharp arc. The shimmering blade of wind howled as it cut through the sunlight, striking Proserpina cleanly across the chest. She cried out as the impact sent her skidding backward, her legs scrambling for purchase on the dry earth. Ashley bit her lip. The hit was too clean—too sharp.

"Come on, Proserpina!" Ashley shouted. "You've got this! Stun Spore!"

Proserpina wobbled, her movements still shaky, but she managed to shake herself free of her confusion long enough to lower her head and release a golden cloud of paralyzing powder. The spores drifted lazily through the sunlight, catching the light and glowing like flecks of gold. But Koga was already a step ahead.

"Psybeam."

Venomoth's antennae pulsed, and a spiraling beam of multicolored energy tore through the air. The swirling light twisted violently as it carved through the cloud of spores, dispersing them in every direction before they could reach their target.

"Use Growth!" Ashley ordered.

Proserpina closed her eyes, drawing in the amplified sunlight. Her petals glowed as veins of golden energy spread across her body, making her bloom larger and more vibrant. Her form seemed to pulse with life, her attack power surging as she absorbed the warmth radiating from above. But Koga wasn't about to let her gather momentum.

"Air Slash again."

Venomoth dove once more, her wings slicing down to unleash another razor-sharp gust. The cutting wind howled as it tore through the air, striking Proserpina head-on and sending her reeling. Ashley's heart clenched. She was running out of options. With Venomoth's boosted stats, the fight felt overwhelmingly lopsided.

"Hang in there, Proserpina! Use Swift—scatter her!"

Golden stars erupted from Proserpina's petals, streaking upward in dazzling arcs. The glowing projectiles shimmered as they filled the air, forcing Venomoth to twist and weave to avoid the barrage. Her movements were less fluid, her dodging hindered by the sheer volume of the attack.

Ashley saw her opening. "Absorb—now!"

Proserpina lunged forward, her tendrils glowing green as they latched onto Venomoth, drawing thin streams of energy back into her trembling form. Venomoth shuddered in midair, her wings fluttering erratically as the drain took hold. But she shook it off quickly, regaining her poise with frightening speed.

"Finish it. Psybeam."

Ashley barely had time to react before the rainbow-colored beam streaked across the battlefield. It struck Proserpina dead-on, the force of the impact sending her sprawling. She let out one final, pained cry before collapsing onto the ground, motionless.

Ashley froze, her breath catching in her throat. Proserpina didn't stir. The battle was over. Ashley swallowed hard and quickly recalled her Pokémon. "You did amazing, Proserpina," she whispered, her fingers tightening around the Poké Ball.

Koga stood calmly, his Venomoth hovering confidently at his side. "A strong showing," he said. "Your Gloom fought with determination, but your strategy relied too much on setups. Against a fast opponent, hesitation costs battles."

Ashley didn't let the words sting. "Don't worry, Koga," she said, her voice brimming with determination. "I've still got plenty of tricks left."

Ashley's fingers trembled slightly as she clipped Proserpina's Poké Ball back onto her belt. Her heart was pounding, but she wasn't about to back down—not when the battle was still wide open. She reached for her next Poké Ball, her grip tightening around it as her eyes locked onto Koga's Venomoth, still hovering gracefully despite the hits it had taken.

"All right, Mars," Ashley said, her voice steady as she threw the ball. "Let's heat things up!"

In a flash of red light, Mars burst onto the field, landing with a sharp growl and swishing his tail, the flame at its tip flaring bright and steady. His claws flexed against the ground as he sized up Venomoth, his eyes burning with determination.

Koga's expression didn't falter. "You're sending a Fire-type against me?"

Ashley smirked. "Not just any Fire-type. This one's been training in a volcano."

"Poison Powder," Koga commanded calmly, his voice steady and precise.

Venomoth flared her wings wide and flapped hard, releasing a shimmering cloud of purple spores. The toxic particles glittered ominously as they billowed outward, spreading in waves that rippled through the air. Ashley's breath caught. The cloud was expanding fast, and if even a trace of it reached Mars, he'd be in serious trouble.

"Burn it away! Let's go, Mars—Fire Spin!" Ashley shouted, her voice cutting through the tension.

Mars wasted no time. With a deep inhale, the Charmander exhaled a spiraling vortex of fire that roared to life, twisting and crackling as it surged forward. The flames hungrily consumed the advancing spores, their heat making the toxins sizzle and pop as they disintegrated into harmless ash. The fiery spiral didn't stop there—it twisted upward, creating a brief, blinding pillar of light that flickered against the rocky battlefield. Ashley allowed herself a breath of relief, but she wasn't ready to celebrate yet.

Koga's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze sharp. "Impressive defense," he admitted, his tone betraying no emotion. "But it won't stop this—Confusion!"

Venomoth's compound eyes flared with a pale blue glow, and waves of psychic energy rippled outward like invisible currents of force. The ground trembled slightly beneath their intensity as the attack barreled toward Mars.

Ashley gritted her teeth. "Smokescreen! Hide in the fog!"

Mars slammed his claws into the ground and spun, releasing a dense cloud of black smoke. The thick fog swallowed him instantly, creating an inky shroud that spread across the battlefield. The psychic waves sliced through the smoke, parting it in bursts, but Mars's silhouette remained hidden. The smog churned uneasily, broken only by faint glimmers of light from the fire at the tip of his tail.

"Stay sharp, Mars," Ashley called, her voice echoing faintly through the haze. "Now, Sunny Day!"

A sudden burst of light erupted from within the smoke, scattering the shadows as a golden glow washed over the battlefield. Mars's silhouette emerged, his claws raised toward the sky, and the sunlight intensified in response. The battlefield brightened, shadows stretching long and sharp. Venomoth flinched, her wings twitching in protest at the sudden glare.

"Push through! Swift!"

Stars of light shot out from the smoke, glittering as they caught the sunlight. They streaked through the air like fireworks, their path direct and unerring. Venomoth tried to evade, fluttering high, but the stars homed in relentlessly. The shimmering projectiles struck her wings, forcing her lower as her flight faltered under the impact.

"Now! Fire Spin!"

Mars erupted from the remaining smoke like a fiery comet, flames swirling around him as he launched another spiraling inferno. The vortex engulfed Venomoth, and she let out a sharp cry, her movements erratic as the flames trapped her in place. The heat intensified under the blazing sunlight, distorting the air around her.

Ashley clenched her fists, her heart racing. "Yes! That's how we do it, Mars!"

But Koga's voice cut through the moment like a blade. "Solar Beam!"

Ashley froze. "Wait, what?!"

Venomoth, scorched and struggling, suddenly flared with energy. Her wings shimmered with an emerald glow, greedily absorbing the sunlight that poured down. The swirling flames around her weakened as she drew power from the light, her entire body vibrating with intensity. Ashley's eyes widened. There was no charge time—not in this sunlight.

In the blink of an eye, Venomoth fired. A massive, glowing beam of green energy exploded outward, cutting through the battlefield like a lance. It slammed into Mars with bone-jarring force.

Mars yelped in pain, the impact hurling him backward. He skidded across the rocky terrain, stones scattering in his wake. Ashley's stomach twisted as she watched him struggle to rise. His limbs shook, and his breathing was ragged, but then his tail flame flared—strong and steady.

Ashley exhaled slowly, her eyes locked on her partner. "You've got this, Mars. We're not done yet."

Mars let out a deep, guttural growl that reverberated across the battlefield. His body began to glow, light consuming him as the shape of his frame shifted and grew. Ashley's breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening as the brilliance intensified.

"No way," she whispered, stepping back as the light flared one final time before shattering outward.

When the glow dissipated, Mars stood taller and more imposing. His limbs were stronger, his claws sharper, and his tail flame flared like a roaring bonfire. The air around him seemed to shimmer with heat, radiating his newfound strength.

"Charmeleon!" Mars roared, baring his teeth and slashing the air with his glowing claws.

Ashley's shock melted into awe, and then pride. "You're incredible, Mars!" she called, her voice ringing with excitement.

Across the battlefield, Koga's eyes narrowed, his expression sharp and calculating. "An evolution mid-battle… interesting," he murmured, crossing his arms. "But evolution won't save you."

Ashley wasn't listening. She could see it—the determination burning in Mars's eyes, the fire in his heart ignited to its fullest. He was ready for more. So was she.

Before Ashley could issue her next command, Mars's claws began to glow with a faint blue aura. Ashley blinked in surprise, her mind racing. That wasn't one of his usual moves. What was he—?

Suddenly, the aura intensified, swirling and crackling as his entire body became enveloped in dragon energy. Ashley's jaw dropped as she realized what was happening.

"Mars, that's—" But the words caught in her throat. She hadn't taught him this move.

Mars let out a defiant roar and crouched low, his tail flame surging. Then, with a powerful push, he shot forward like a blazing comet, leaving a trail of blue energy in his wake.

"Dragon Rush!" Ashley gasped, her surprise quickly giving way to exhilaration. It was an egg move—one they hadn't even known he possessed—and it had awakened with his evolution.

Venomoth's wings fluttered as she tried to take to the air, her movements quick but frantic. Mars, however, was faster. The dragon energy crackled and roared around him as he closed the distance in a flash.

The impact was like a thunderclap, the force sending Venomoth spiraling backward through the air before she hit the ground hard, skidding to a stop in a cloud of dust and debris. Ashley held her breath as the dust began to settle.

Venomoth lay still, her wings twitching faintly before going limp.

The ninja referee stepped forward, raising her hand. "Venomoth is unable to battle! The winner is Charmeleon!"

Ashley's heart pounded as the declaration rang out. She stared at Mars, who stood tall, his claws still glowing faintly as the remnants of the dragon energy dissipated. He turned his head back toward her, his eyes gleaming with triumph.

"You're amazing, Mars. Absolutely amazing." Ashley let out a cry of victory, throwing her arms in the air as Mars stood tall, his tail blazing like a beacon. Mars let out a low, confident growl, the fire in his tail burning brighter than ever.

Koga recalled Venomoth, his expression unreadable. Then, after a long moment, he stepped forward and gave a slow nod.

"You fought with skill and heart," he said, his voice calm. "And you adapted when it mattered most. That is the mark of a true ninja… and a worthy challenger. For demonstrating adaptability, precision, and strategy in the heat of battle," Koga said, his voice steady but tinged with respect, "I award you the Soul Badge."

Ashley's hands flew to her mouth, and for just a moment, she froze, stunned. Then she quickly stepped forward and took the badge with both hands, holding it as if it were the most delicate treasure in the world. "Thank you," she breathed, bowing slightly out of instinct. Her words spilled out before she could stop them. "I mean—thank you so much! This… this really means a lot."

Koga nodded. "It is well-earned. But your journey does not end here." He reached into his sleeve again and produced a small disc—a Technical Machine, its surface a glossy silver-purple. He flipped it between his fingers before handing it over. "Take this as well. TM—Toxic. It is not a move of brute strength, but one of patience and calculation. Use it wisely."

Ashley turned the TM over in her hands, the weight of it sinking in as Mars leaned closer to inspect it, sniffing at it curiously before huffing and sitting back down. Ashley laughed softly. "Don't worry, bud. This one's not for you."

Koga folded his arms, watching her carefully. "Many trainers underestimate status moves, focusing only on raw power. But a battle is not won by strength alone. Poison wears down even the strongest foe—just as patience can outlast recklessness." He raised a brow. "You showed patience today. But I expect you'll continue to refine that skill as you grow."

Ashley straightened, her grip tightening on the badge and TM. "I will," she said firmly. "You can count on that."

"See that I can," Koga replied, his tone low but carrying a distinct note of approval.

As they stepped out into the cool evening air, the city lights glinting off the Soul Badge in her hand, Ashley couldn't help but grin. Two badges down, six to go. And if today had proven anything, it was that she and her team were more than ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Ashley walked alongside Koga down the dimly lit streets of Fuchsia City, the soft glow of the streetlights bouncing off the polished surface of her new Soul Badge. Mars padded beside her, his steps light but energetic, his tail flame flickering brightly in the fading evening light. He was still riding the height of his evolution, occasionally puffing out a small ember just because he could. Ashley gave him an affectionate nudge with her knee, earning a smug growl from her newly-evolved Charmeleon.

Koga walked with practiced ease, hands folded behind his back, his stride steady and deliberate, like someone who was always aware of his surroundings. Ashley glanced sideways at him, still holding the Toxic TM tightly in her hand as she debated how to start the conversation bubbling in her head. She opened her mouth, hesitated, then exhaled through her nose and just went for it.

"So, uh, Koga," she began, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, "about Poison-types…"

Koga didn't slow his pace, but his eyes flicked toward her, sharp even in the dim light. "Yes?"

Ashley bit her lip, suddenly feeling a little self-conscious, but Mars's encouraging growl gave her the boost she needed. "I'm not exactly… good with them," she admitted, waving the Toxic TM like it explained everything. "I mean, I get the basics—status moves, long-term strategies—but I've mostly trained Fire- and Water-types so far. Even my Gloom, Proserpina, I've been focusing on her Grass-type moves. I don't want to fail her by skipping out on the Poison side of things, but I just—I don't know where to start."

Koga's steps slowed, and he turned to face her, his gaze steady but not unkind. "Acknowledging a weakness is the first step to overcoming it," he said, his voice low but carrying a weight that made Ashley stand up a little straighter. "Your Gloom has potential. I could see it in your battle earlier. But power without control leads to recklessness."

Ashley nodded quickly. "Exactly! I want to give her more control. Proserpina's already tanky, and I know she's great at status effects, but she needs more precision. More finesse."

Koga raised a brow, clearly intrigued by her focus. "And you believe Poison techniques will give her that?"

"I do," Ashley said without hesitation, then faltered, her enthusiasm dipping just slightly. "I mean… if I can teach her right."

Koga's lips quirked into the faintest hint of a smile. "It is rare for a trainer to recognize the subtleties of Poison-types so early. Most dismiss them as underhanded, reliant on cheap tricks. But Poison is an art form—one that demands patience and discipline."

Ashley blinked. "Wow, I feel like I just signed up for a philosophy lecture."

Koga smirked. "Then prepare to take notes."

They reached the Pokémon Center just as he said it, the glass doors sliding open with a quiet hiss. The warm, sterile glow of the interior made Ashley realize just how much dirt and ash still clung to her sleeves and boots, remnants of her battle with Koga. Nurse Joy looked up from the counter and greeted them with her usual bright smile, but Ashley caught the flicker of recognition in her eyes as she spotted Koga.

"Good evening, Koga! I see Ashley here gave you a run for your money," Nurse Joy said cheerfully, taking Mars's Poké Ball and Koga's from his hands.

Ashley coughed, rubbing the back of her neck. "Uh, well, it was close," she admitted, shooting Mars a glance. The Charmeleon puffed out his chest proudly, as if daring anyone to disagree.

Koga inclined his head respectfully. "It was an impressive match. One worthy of recognition."

Ashley tried not to let her grin take over her whole face. "Thanks!" She handed over Proserpina's Poké Ball as well before turning back to Koga. "So… about that training…"

"Let's sit down to talk, while we wait," Koga offered with a kind smile.

Ashley beamed and moved to sit in a chair at the Pokémon Center's lounge, her legs stretched out as she balanced a notebook on her knee and tapped the end of her pen against her chin. Across from her, Koga sat with the same unnerving stillness he carried everywhere, like he was a shadow waiting to move.

"So," Ashley started, flipping a page in her notebook and looking at Koga expectantly, "perfect Vileplume—where do we even begin?"

Koga studied her for a moment, as if measuring her enthusiasm against the weight of what she was asking. "We begin," he said, leaning forward slightly, "by understanding what a Vileplume is."

Ashley raised an eyebrow. "A Grass- and Poison-type tank with massive petals and enough pollen to knock out a Tauros?"

Koga smirked faintly. "Simplistic, but not inaccurate." He steepled his fingers. "Vileplume is a master of attrition. It does not win battles through brute force but through control. Status effects, terrain manipulation, and endurance—it dominates by making every move its opponent takes a costly one."

Ashley's eyes lit up as she scribbled furiously, nodding along. "Okay, so—slow, steady, and suffocating."

"Poison is not suffocation," Koga corrected gently. "It is erosion. It wears down its target, exploiting weaknesses until nothing remains. That is what Proserpina must embody."

Ashley paused, tapping the pen against the notebook before looking up. "But Gloom's not exactly slow. She's not fast like Vulcan, but she's spry. Won't she lose that when she evolves?"

"Somewhat," Koga admitted, "but evolution is not merely growth—it is refinement. You are not losing speed. You are gaining durability, power, and the ability to force your opponent's hand." He leaned back, arms crossing. "Proserpina will need to learn how to control space, not just react to it. Moves like Stun Spore and Sleep Powder are tools, but they must be wielded with precision, not desperation."

Ashley scribbled down his words, biting her lip. "So, no panicking and just spamming powders. Got it."

Koga's lips twitched. "Correct." He reached out and tapped Proserpina's Poké Ball lightly. "And the key to making those powders effective? Fear."

Ashley blinked. "Fear?"

"Proserpina's strength will be psychological as much as physical," Koga explained. "When her opponent knows one misstep could mean paralysis or sleep, they will hesitate. They will falter. And hesitation is an opening."

Ashley sat back, impressed and maybe just a little intimidated. "Man, you make this sound way cooler than it has any right to be," she said, grinning. "You're sure you're not secretly a Dark-type specialist?"

Koga allowed the tiniest chuckle. "Poison and darkness are not so different."

"Noted," Ashley muttered, writing that down too. Then her pen stilled as another thought struck her. "What about her Grass-type moves? You're focusing a lot on the Poison side, but I don't want to lose the utility Grass moves bring."

"Nor should you," Koga said, nodding approvingly. "Grass provides recovery, sustainability. Moves like Absorb, Giga Drain, and Leech Seed will allow Proserpina to outlast opponents while chipping away at their stamina. It complements her Poison strategies perfectly—offense and defense working as one."

Ashley whistled, shaking her head. "Man, I thought Fire-types were complicated. This is like playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers."

"Poison requires patience," Koga said simply. "But for those who master it, it is unmatched."

Ashley grinned. "Then let's make Proserpina unmatched."

Nurse Joy's voice interrupted them, calling Ashley to the counter. She quickly gathered up her notebook and jogged over, returning with her Poké Balls in hand. Ashley released Proserpina, who blinked up at her sleepily before looking around and spotting Koga.

"Alright, girl," Ashley said, crouching down and gently patting her Gloom's petals. "We're gonna turn you into the best Vileplume this side of Kanto. You ready?"

Proserpina let out a chirping hum and swayed slightly, already looking more confident just hearing Ashley's words.

Koga rose, his gaze sharp as ever. "We'll begin at sunrise," he said. "Your Gloom is capable, but potential means nothing without refinement."

Ashley straightened and saluted dramatically. "Yes, sensei."

Proserpina gave what almost sounded like a giggle. Koga, for his part, didn't even blink.

"Get some rest," he said, already turning toward the door. "You'll need it."

Ashley watched him go, her grin growing as she turned back to Proserpina. "You hear that? He thinks you're capable. And you know what? So do I."

Proserpina puffed up slightly, her leaves twitching with pride.

"Tomorrow," Ashley said, scooping her Pokémon up into her arms and earning a startled squeak, "we start turning you into the queen of status effects. Venus better watch out because you're about to give 'cute' a run for its money."

Proserpina hummed in Ashley's arms, already leaning into her trainer's warmth, and Ashley couldn't help but smile.

Tomorrow couldn't come fast enough.

When night fell, Ashley found herself shifting under the covers of her bed, the soft hum of the Pokémon Center's nightlights casting a dim glow across the room. Mars lay sprawled beside her, his newly evolved Charmeleon form taking up way more space than he used to as a Charmander. His tail flame flickered lazily, the light dancing on the walls in waves of orange and gold. Ashley smiled, reaching out to run her fingers along the rougher scales on his arm. They were tougher than before—stronger—but still warm. Always warm.

"You know," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper, "I was kind of worried something might change after you evolved."

Mars cracked one eye open, his tail flicking slightly as if to ask what?

"This." Ashley gestured vaguely at him with her free hand. "The whole evolution thing. I've heard stories—trainers whose Charmanders evolve and then suddenly decide they're too cool to listen anymore." She paused, brushing her thumb over one of the sharper ridges along his elbow. "Not you, though. You're still my Mars."

Mars huffed, the sound somewhere between an exhale and a low rumble, and shifted closer, resting his head against her arm like he was trying to make his point without words.

Ashley grinned, but her voice softened. "You don't know how relieved I am about that."

Mars let out a grunt, rolling onto his back and stretching, claws flexing in the air as if to show off. Ashley couldn't help but laugh, pressing a palm against his stomach before he could get any ideas about clawing up the blankets.

"Yeah, yeah, I get it. You're bigger now—stronger. But don't think I didn't notice that Solar Beam almost knocked you out earlier," she teased, poking his side lightly. "You're not invincible yet, hotshot."

Mars snorted, clearly offended, and shifted back onto his stomach with a flick of his tail. His eyes narrowed in what Ashley immediately recognized as his "I dare you to repeat that" look. She raised her hands in mock surrender.

"Hey, I'm just saying! You're still my number one, but we've got work to do if you're gonna live up to that whole 'God of War' thing we've got going on."

Mars seemed to consider that, his eyes flickering with something more serious before he finally grumbled and settled down again. Ashley smiled, rubbing the spot between his horns until he leaned into it.

"I mean it, though," she murmured. "I feel lucky. I've seen trainers crying their eyes out because their Charmeleons suddenly got moody or wouldn't listen anymore. I guess you're just too stubborn to stop trusting me, huh?"

Mars gave her a sidelong glance, then licked her hand in response, making her yelp.

"Gross!" Ashley wiped her hand against the blanket, laughing as Mars rumbled in amusement. "You better not make that a habit, or I'm sending you back to your Poké Ball."

Mars clearly didn't believe her, judging by the smug flick of his tail, but Ashley just shook her head and leaned back against the pillows, her arm resting lightly over his shoulders.

The room fell quiet for a while after that, save for the faint hum of machinery and the soft crackle of Mars's flame. Ashley let her thoughts drift, staring at the ceiling as she tried to picture what the next step in their journey might be like. She had two badges and one ribbon now—a solid start—and a full team that was shaping up faster than she could've expected.

Her hand drifted down to Mars's scales again, tracing idle patterns along his shoulder. He didn't flinch away or grumble this time, just stayed close, his breathing slow and steady.

"Tomorrow's gonna be busy," she said quietly, more to herself than to him. "Training with Koga, getting Proserpina ready to evolve… and I still need to figure out Venus's path." Her eyes flicked toward the Poké Balls lined up on her nightstand. "You're all growing so fast. I'm barely keeping up."

Mars let out a low, comforting rumble, and Ashley smiled. "I guess that's a good thing, though. I mean, I'd rather be running to keep up than standing still."

Mars made a soft sound of agreement, but Ashley could feel his breathing slowing. He was already half-asleep, his tail flame steady and calm. She let out a breath of her own, closing her eyes as she let herself relax for the first time all day.

"Goodnight, Mars," she murmured. "We're just getting started."

The Charmeleon didn't respond, but his tail flame flared slightly, almost like it was answering for him. Ashley smiled at that before sleep finally pulled her under, surrounded by the soft warmth of her oldest partner.