Episode 5: War of Position

Druddigon sprinted through the woods, his powerful legs propelling him forward as the morning sun broke through the canopy. The moment its golden rays touched his eyes, he had leaped out of bed, eager to start his daily run. Early morning workouts were second nature to him—his blood pumped with energy, his muscles thrived on the movement, and the rustling trees felt like home.

And then—

"SHIT!"

His foot snagged on a hidden tree root, yanking him off balance. In an instant, he was airborne, crashing face-first into the dirt with an unceremonious thud. For a few heartbeats, he lay there, stunned. Then, without warning, laughter bubbled up from his chest. Loud, unabashed, and entirely amused, he rolled onto his back, grinning up at the sky. "Well, that was one way to wake up."

Druddigon was doing some sitting stretches as he sat in the confessional, "Ugh, man I needed that run badly! Been kinda slacking on my routine around here."

He laughs to himself before continuing, "Team's down an able body, but I've helped pick up slack before, so I gotta do what I can for the team now! Love everyone, but I… Can't help but feel they're starting to struggle with keeping up." He stifled a laugh. "Except Dewott! Love that guy."

After his tumble, Druddigon picked himself up and continued his run, heading toward the lake at the heart of the island. The crisp morning air filled his lungs as his pace steadied, but just as the water came into view, something—or rather, someone—caught his attention.

Golduck stood by a tree, arms crossed, gazing out at the lake, deep in thought.

Druddigon grinned and strode over, his footsteps crunching against the dirt. Golduck's head turned slightly at the sound. "Oh- morning, Drud. Out for a run?"

"Yep!" the dragon replied, still catching his breath. "Getting back in the swing of things. Think I've got the rhythm of this game down enough to make time for it now."

"Good. I don't want to see you slacking off on the next challenge, you hear?" she teased, smirking competitively before turning her gaze back to the lake.

Druddigon studied her for a moment before speaking up. "Something on your mind?"

Golduck's response was immediate. "My team." She exhaled sharply. "It feels like we're barely held together with scotch tape and string, and any second now, it's all gonna snap. And it's only day five." She paused, shaking her head before glancing at him. "Compared to us, your team seems… perfect." She sighed, her posture relaxing slightly. "How do you do it?"

"Do what?" He questioned.

"Lead them."

Druddigon blinked—then burst out laughing. Golduck furrowed her brow, mildly annoyed. "Hey, I'm being serious here, Drud!"

"Sorry, sorry!" he managed between chuckles, raising a claw in surrender. After a moment, he finally calmed down. "Thing is, I don't really consider myself a leader or anything. I'm just part of the team. Leading outright? Not really my style."

Golduck gave him an exasperated look. "Great. And that totally helps me."

Druddigon shrugged. "Don't put so much weight on it. We're not working with our teams from back home—we gotta adapt. Make a new playbook, y'know? Figure things out as we go." He smirked, giving her a playful pat on the back. "Besides, if you get too caught up in all this… I'll just beat you without a challenge. And you don't want that, do you?"

Golduck pushed him back with a smirk of her own. "Oh, fat chance! My team's gonna leave yours in the dust!"

Druddigon chuckled. "Yeah, yeah, we'll see about that, Goldy!"

"Bring it on, Drud!"

"Oh, it is on!" With a final laugh, Druddigon turned and jogged off to continue his run.

Golduck watched him go, shaking her head with a small smile. Once he was out of sight, she sighed, rolling her shoulders. "Alright, Golduck. Let's get it together."

"Once again, I really wish that guy was on my team," Golduck said, "if I had him around I wouldn't be so bothered about the team because between us, we can make a well oiled machine out of any group of slackers."

She sighs, taking a seat, "I guess he is right about how this isn't our normal environment. I've just got to make the most of this team. Even if there are people here that aren't exactly the most… cooperative. I didn't come here to lay down and die, so I'll just have to set them up for success, whether they like it or not!"

"I think Golduck is taking it all too personally, y'know?" Druddgion said, now sitting still, "I'm sure she'll be fine, she just has to take a step back. Gotta keep ourselves in top form to handle whatever comes our way."

"After all, if she flames out too quick, how the heck are we supposed to make a fair fight out of this?" He points at the camera, "Like hell I'm losing this war, Goldy!"

Ninetales stood in front of her open suitcase, carefully scanning an assortment of makeup products. Every so often, she picked up a bottle of nail polish, examined it, then shook her head and set it back down with a frustrated sigh.

From her spot on the bed, Gothitelle watched with a raised eyebrow.

"Dare I ask what you're doing?"

Ninetales grabbed another bottle, turning it over in her paw before groaning and setting it aside. "Ugh. I'm trying to pick a shade of nail polish for the day." She rejected another. "Normally, I know what color I want, but today? I cannot decide. And I am not leaving this cabin until I have something!"

Gothitelle got up and strolled over, her gaze flicking across the scattered bottles before one lifted into the air, enveloped in a soft psychic glow.

"Well, since you can't decide, I'll be borrowing this."

Ninetales' ears perked up as she spun around. "Um, excuse me? That is mine! You can't just—"

Before she could finish, Gothitelle wordlessly handed her another bottle.

"This one. Wear this one."

Then, as if the matter was settled, she returned to her seat and began applying her own polish.

Ninetales glanced down at the red bottle in her paw. She stared for a moment before a satisfied smile spread across her face.

"Hmm… Yes! This will do perfectly~! Thank you, girl. You can use that polish, it's whatever!"

"Appreciated," Gothitelle replied coolly, focused on her nails.

Just then, the cabin door creaked open, and Frillish timidly floated inside. "Hey, um… b-breakfast is ready."

"Shit! I better get presentable before I go," Ninetales said, quickly unscrewing the cap of her polish while simultaneously rummaging for her brush.

Gothitelle, meanwhile, held out her hand toward Frillish, showing off freshly painted nails in a soft, pale pink.

"Oh! Th-that looks so p-pretty!" Frillish marveled, eyes widening. "I think i-it suits y-you!"

Gothitelle smiled, her tone warm. "Thank you."

Frillish hovered closer, watching in fascination as Gothitelle continued painting her nails. Ninetales, too absorbed in perfecting her own look, didn't notice a thing.

"Thank you Gothitelle~" Ninetales said, showing the camera her now colored nails on her paw. "Oh yes, I look so good. I just know that I am going to own the day now!"

She puts her paw down as she thinks for a moment, "Maybe she's not so bad… I wonder if I can find a way to work with her." She winks, "I'm going to need any the allies a girl can get if I'm going far in this game after all~"

"Normally, I'd say this is just another part of my plan to get Ninetales closer to me," Gothitelle said, admiring her nails, "but in truth, her indecision was just a little annoying and I wanted some nail polish. Two birds, one stone. Nothing deep…. Frillish is right, this does look quite nice."

The mess hall buzzed with quiet chatter as the cast sat down to eat breakfast—a rather uninspiring meal of mushy oatmeal and fruit, but breakfast nonetheless.

Dewott approached a table where Mightyena and Lycanroc were already seated, carefully setting down two trays of food. Mightyena raised an eyebrow. "I think Druddigon's still on his run," Dewott explained, taking a seat. "Figured I'd grab him a tray so he doesn't miss out."

"Oh… cool," Lycanroc muttered absentmindedly, barely paying attention.

Mightyena, on the other hand, rolled his eyes. "Simp."

Dewott's face immediately flushed red. "Wh-What!?"

"Not repeating it. You heard me," Mightyena said nonchalantly before taking a bite of the oatmeal—only to gag seconds later. "Ugh! Why is the food like this? How is this the same guy who made that soup!?"

"Maybe…" Lycanroc murmured, trailing off before idly scooping another spoonful of oatmeal into his mouth. "He was told to make the food kinda bad on purpose?" He continued eating with little complaint.

"Maybe Lycanroc's right," Dewott said with a shrug. "But hey, it's better than starving."

Mightyena groaned dramatically, then turned to Lycanroc. "How are you eating this stuff?"

No response.

"Lycanroc."

Still nothing—just the steady sound of a spoon scraping against the tray.

"Lycanroc!"

"Huh?" Lycanroc blinked, finally looking up. "Oh, uh… sorry. It's just food."

Mightyena stared at him in utter disbelief. "What!?"

Lycanroc simply shrugged and went back to eating, offering no further explanation.

"I dunno," Lycanroc said just looking at the camera awkwardly, "I've had worse… and I've made worse."

"Last challenge was a little… Much." Skiploom started speaking to the camera, the smile on her space as bright as she could make it, "But it's a new day and I want to do what I can to keep the team together. So, I decided that at breakfast today, I'll check in with people and keep spirits up!"

Skiploom floated through the mess hall, tray in hand, scanning the room before settling at the end of a table where Pancham sat. She offered him a warm smile as she placed her tray down. "Good morning, Pancham! I just wanted to—"

"Don't talk to me."

The sharp interruption caught her off guard. Her smile twitched ever so slightly. "H-Huh?" She tried to keep her cheerful demeanor intact. "What?"

Pancham sighed, barely looking at her. "Don't talk to me, Skiploom. Unless you drop the smile, I'm not doing this."

Skiploom hesitated, struggling to find a response. Despite his words, she held her smile, even if it felt just a little forced now.

Seeing that, Pancham simply grabbed his bowl of oatmeal and stood up. "Figured. See ya at the challenge."

Without another word, he walked away, leaving Skiploom staring down at her tray. Though she still smiled, her expression faltered, sadness creeping in beneath the surface.

"Or… Not." Skiploom remparted dejectedly.

"Do not take the short one's actions to heart."

Skiploom blinked and looked around before finally glancing upward. Hanging from the ceiling, casually eating his breakfast, was Gliscor. "The actions of one such as him are difficult to understand," he continued.

Skiploom gave him a concerned look but nodded. "Thank you, Gliscor?" She floated up slightly. "But… why are you hanging up there while eating?"

Gliscor chuckled. "Simply because I can! Why conform to expectations when one can—whoops."

Mid-sentence, his bowl slipped from his claws. Skiploom's eyes widened as she watched it plummet… and land directly on—

"Ow!"

—Lycanroc's head.

"Gliscor, what the hell!?" Mightyena barked from across the room.

Gliscor stifled a chuckle. "I assure you, that was not intentional—gah!" A barrage of Rock Blast struck him mid-apology, sending him crashing to the floor. "I DESERVED THIS!" he groaned from the ground.

Skiploom let out a long sigh, shaking her head.

"I might have my work cut out for me" Skiploom said flatly despite the small smile she had.

"Look, it's nothing personal," Pancham started, "But I know people like her. They smile and act like they care, wanting to see if you're well and good."

He rolls his eyes before scowling, "Then they use that to make you trust them before they stab you in the back! Making you feel like an idiot for thinking they cared! And in a competition, yeah no, I don't trust Skiploom for a second. If she stops all that fake smiling, then we'll talk."

Raichu sat by the campfire pit near the cabins, absentmindedly munching on a plate of fruit. She grimaced slightly. "Ugh… I don't think these are fresh at all."

Despite the complaint, she still grabbed another piece. As she ate, she noticed Golduck walking back onto the campgrounds, lost in thought. "Morning, Golduck!" Raichu called out.

Golduck blinked, pulled from her thoughts as she turned toward the electric-type. "Morning." She glanced at the plate of fruit. "Mind if I grab some?"

Raichu shrugged. "Go for it, but it ain't great."

Golduck picked up a piece of Pinap Berry and popped it into her mouth. "Eh, I've had worse." She sat down across from Raichu, the plate of fruit between them. "Back in high school, I tried to help one of my teammates stick to a protein-heavy diet, so I did it with her. And let me tell you, my taste buds were messed up for months."

Raichu laughed. "I figured you'd be all over something like that," Raichu said, still chuckling. "No offense, of course, but you know…"

"None taken. I get it," Golduck replied with a small smirk. "But I'm more of a balanced diet type of gal. Gotta keep my body in top shape for my squad."

Raichu's amusement faded into something more thoughtful. "Hey, are you good? You've seemed kinda off ever since Aegislash got eliminated. I get it—what he did wasn't great at all—but still… are you putting all that weight on yourself or something?"

Golduck's eyes widened slightly. "Huh? How did you—?"

Raichu grinned. "I've watched way too many soap operas."

Golduck gave her a deadpan look. "Raichu, those are actors portraying emotions."

"And a lot of actors pull from their own experiences to do it," Raichu countered. "Point is, I had a feeling."

Golduck sighed, shaking her head. "Okay, yeah. I already talked to Druddigon about it, but… I just feel like the team isn't coming together, you know?"

"I get it," Raichu said with a nod. "But this is a reality show. We're not gonna be some well-oiled machine like an actual sports team. You're doing fine, Golduck."

Golduck smiled, the tension in her shoulders easing. "Thanks, Raichu. Ugh, I need to stop stressing over this. I'm heading to the mess hall."

"Sounds good. I'll be here," Raichu replied, waving her off. She looked down at the plate—only to realize it was gone. "What the…?" She snapped her head up. "Golduck!"

A short distance away, Golduck burst into laughter before breaking into a jog. Raichu shot up and took off after her. "Sabotage!"

"I'm not even mad about the fruit thing, they weren't great," Raichu said, "But hey, at least I got through to her… even if Druddigon probably softened her up. I'm kind of realizing that I've been so focused on Meowth, that I don't really have any allies. Sure, I don't think anyone hates me, but I hardly have friends either."

"Are you sure these are safe?" Meowstic asked, eyeing the Pecha Berries laid out on the blanket in front of him. Dolliv had arranged them neatly for his arrival.

"Of course," Dolliv replied with a smile. "I found the bush not far from here and tried them myself. Besides, I have a feeling foraging might be a better option than whatever they're serving in the mess hall."

Meowstic glanced at her before reluctantly picking up a berry and taking a bite. He chewed for a moment, then sighed. "I hate that you have a point."

Dolliv giggled. "Well, you wanted to have this meeting, yes? What did you want to discuss?"

Meowstic straightened up slightly, his expression sharpening. "We need to go over everything that pertains to our teams—who's an asset, who's a liability, and who should be targeted. Any information that can give us an advantage."

Dolliv tilted her head. "But do you even have that kind of information about your team? You tend to spend most of your free time alone rather than with them."

Meowstic scoffed. "They're simply not worth my time."

"But isolating yourself won't leave a good impression on them, will it?" Dolliv countered.

"I'm useful to them in challenges. They know better than to eliminate me—unless they want to lose."

"Perhaps," Dolliv admitted, "but this is a social game as well." She leaned in slightly, her soft smile carrying a knowing edge. "I may not have spent the most time with my team either, but playing the role of the Oleander can be just as effective."

Meowstic studied her for a long moment before looking away with a dismissive scoff. "Fine. Perhaps that's something I should adjust in my strategy." He then narrowed his eyes on her. "But if I'm going to do that, so will you. This alliance only works if both of us put in the effort."

Dolliv nodded, her smile unwavering. "Very well."

"Good. Then this meeting is adjourned for the moment," Meowstic declared, standing up. Without another word, he strode over to a nearby tree and settled beneath it, pulling out a book to read. "I'll begin implementing the necessary changes after the challenge."

Dolliv simply chuckled, plucking another berry from the pile as she watched him.

Mewostic had a contemplative expression as he sat in the confessional. His book wasn't even open. "The Oleander is a flower that, while beautiful, is highly toxic, if not fatal. To use that as an analogy in terms of how to navigate this game… Perhaps there is more to this one than I thought. Consider me intrigued… but I will not be ordered heavily going forward. This is my alliance, not hers!"

"Everyone, make your way to the starting beach! It's time to travel for your next challenge! Get your game faces on!"

The boats carrying the cast and their host soon arrived at a new island. As the contestants disembarked onto the shore, they took in their surroundings. Beyond the beach, the terrain was rough and rugged, consisting of jagged rock formations shaped by years of erosion. Vegetation was sparse, with only a few gnarled, mostly dead trees scattered around. But what stood out the most was the oppressive heat that immediately settled over them.

"Arceus, I'm already sweating," Meowth complained as he stepped onto the hot ground.

"Quit whining!" Mightyena barked—only to immediately groan as the heat hit him. "Ugh, okay, yeah, it is hot." Meowth rolled his eyes at the blatant hypocrisy.

"I feel fine," Lycanroc stated plainly.

"Of course you do," Mightyena grumbled, rolling his eyes in return.

"Welcome, everyone, to Innerhearth Island!" Floatzel announced, spreading his arms. "Where Fire and Ground typing merge to create a landmass that can loosely be described as a floating badland!"

"This feels more like Fire and Rock, if you ask me," Ninetales pointed out.

"Nope!" Floatzel said, shaking his head. "Our researchers found an extensive underground tunnel system beneath the island! Looks like Drilbur and Excadrill have made their homes here, and their digging has even affected the terrain aboveground!"

Dolliv nodded in admiration. "Ah, I love seeing how Pokémon influence their environment."

Pancham chuckled. "So that includes pollution, huh?"

Dolliv tilted her head, smiling ever so slightly. "That depends… Do you want me to go back and fetch that Totodile from before? I'm sure he'd love to see you again, Pancham."

A visible shiver ran down Pancham's spine, and he immediately took a step back. "R-Right. No pollution. Pollution bad."

Dolliv clasped her hands together. "I'm glad we agree."

"The Hell was that?!" Pancham spat. "Jeez… Was that chick always that creepy?"

Floatzel cleared his throat, bringing the attention back to himself. "Anyway, today's challenge is gonna be a fun one! I'm gonna let you all beat the hell out of each other for sport!"

"HELL YEAH!" Druddigon roared, pumping a fist into the air. His excitement earned him a few odd stares from the others.

"U-Um… M-More like 'H-Hell no?'" Frillish muttered nervously.

"Relax, it'll be fine," Floatzel said dismissively. "Let's head to the challenge site so I can explain. Oi! Xatu!"

In a sudden flash, Xatu appeared before them, her eyes closed as she spread her wings dramatically. "Prepare yourselves… to join me in the holy battleground!"

"Uh, isn't that a little—" Dewott began, only for everyone to be instantly teleported away before he could finish.

They reappeared at another part of the island, standing before a massive ridge dotted with hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires rising from the depths below. The pit beneath them looked bottomless.

"—dramatic?" Dewott finished, then blinked as he took in the new surroundings. "Whoa!"

"Welcome, young ones," Xatu intoned. "I expect many well-fought battles on these grounds today."

Floatzel grinned. "And so do I! Time to explain the challenge! This will be a set of five one-on-one battles, taking place right here on this ridge behind me." He gestured toward the towering hoodoos, letting the contestants absorb the sight. "As you can see… It's a long drop down! Your goal is to knock your opponent off the spires and send them into the pit. If they fall far enough, Xatu will teleport them back to safety, and you'll score a point for your team. First team to three points wins! There are no limits today, so get ready for some intense Pokémon battles!"

"Wait," Gothitelle spoke up, raising a hand. "What about contestants like Frillish or Skiploom? They can float, which would make this challenge trivial for them."

"Good catch," Floatzel said with a nod. "But are you sure they can push their opponent off before getting countered? Plus, those on the hoodoos can jump from spire to spire like platforms. As long as you don't fall too far, you're still in the fight!"

"I see," Gothitelle said, seemingly satisfied with the explanation.

"So it's a mobility-focused battle?" Golduck asked.

"Yep!" Floatzel confirmed cheerfully. "Now then, split up and decide who's going first. Once both teams pick their fighters, Xatu will teleport them in, and we'll get started with round one!"

"Oh yeah, this shit sounds fun!" Druddgion cheered, "I haven't gotten in a good scrap in awhile, so this is right up my alley!"

"How wonderful," Meowstic grumbled with rolled eyes, "a brutish challenge that hardly has room for my intellect. How riveting."

"Alright, I'm going first!" Druddigon announced to the rest of the Krashing Kyogre. "I was built for this!"

Gothitelle nodded. "Well, I, for one, see no reason to argue. Anyone else have an objection?" She paused for a moment, waiting for any objections. Silence followed. "Seems not."

"Wooo!" Druddigon cheered, pumping his fists.

"W-Well," Frillish started hesitantly, "if we have Druddigon locked in… w-why don't we also decide who will compete and who will sit out?"

"Hey, that's a good idea!" Dewott chimed in. "I, uh… wanna try the challenge, if that's alright."

"You got this, buddy!" Druddigon encouraged him with a grin.

"I think it's better to focus on who won't compete," Meowth pointed out. "Only two of us need to sit out. That said, I'm sitting this one out."

Mightyena raised a brow. "Why?"

"I'm not a great fighter," the feline admitted. "I might have the mobility, but that won't help much if I can't hit hard enough."

Mightyena shrugged. "Fine, but I'm gonna be blunt here—of everyone left, Frillish and Dolliv seem like the weakest. No offense."

"N-No offense," Frillish stammered. "How about Dolliv competes? I'm n-not great at fighting…"

Dolliv nodded calmly. "I agree with Frillish. And if I'd ask, I'd prefer to not be underestimated regardless."

Gothitelle glanced at the plant, then at her ally. "Are you sure, Frillish?" Frillish gave a small nod. "Alright then," Gothitelle confirmed. "That means Druddigon, myself, Dewott, Mightyena, and Dolliv will compete. Druddigon, get ready."

"I was born ready!" Druddigon declared, grinning as he marched off toward Floatzel.

"I might have bent the truth just a little," Meowth said as he sat in a relaxed position, "but I really did not feel like fighting. Sorry."

"I truly do not blame Mightyena for thinking so low of me," Dolliv said, her hands firmly on her lap, "however, I think I can show that I am much more than what they see of me. I do apologize for whoever must go against me, but there is no mercy in nature. Thus, I will win."

Meanwhile, over with the Gigantic Groudons, Golduck cleared her throat. "Okay, I think I want to try something different today. I have a habit of putting myself on point for challenges, so this time, I want to sit out."

"Uh, are you sure about that?" Raichu asked, tilting her head.

Golduck nodded confidently. "I'm sure. I'm gonna trust my team to take the win!"

"That, and I want to see more of what everyone is capable of." Golduck clarifies. "I know what I can do, maybe Lycanroc and Meowstic. But not really anyone else. A challenge like this will be good insight."

She then grinned, creaking a knuckle, "And then, I can work on things from there! 'Bout time an assessment was on the table!"

"Okay then!" Skiploom chimed in cheerfully. "I also want to sit out… My moves aren't great, honestly." She chuckled a little awkwardly. "But I know Pollen Puff, so I can heal everyone after their battles!"

"Genuine question—were you a cheerleader in high school or something?" Ninetales asked, though her tone carried no sass.

"I was, actually!" Skiploom answered proudly. "One of the best, in fact!"

"Right," Ninetales hissed lowly.

Golduck smiled at the revelation before refocusing. "Alright, we have one more sit-out slot. Any takers?"

Pancham shook his head. "Nah, I'm in this one!" Golduck gave him a mildly curious look but didn't linger on it long. However, Pancham briefly flashed a look back at her.

Gliscor chuckled, crossing his arms. "I think I'm well suited for this challenge!"

"Sure, I can go for it," Ninetales said with a smirk. "I even have the perfect nails for the occasion~"

Golduck nodded, though a bit uncertainly. "Alright, that leaves Raichu, Meowstic, and Lycanroc. Personally, I think—"

"Uh, excuse me?" Lycanroc cut in, interrupting Golduck. "If it's not a problem… Can I sit out?"

Raichu turned to him in surprise. "Wait, what? Why? You're a strong guy, Lycanroc."

Lycanroc scratched the back of his head. "I just feel like I've been doing a lot. I kind of want a break."

"Look, if Golduck can sit out of a challenge, I can too." Lycanroc said, his arms crossed as he sat down, "she pushed me to do the last challenge and about that whole 'talking about the team thing', which I've been avoiding. I just.. Want to do nothing for once. Is that bad?"

Golduck blinked, looking both surprised and confused, but quickly composed herself. "Well… Raichu, Meowstic? You good with that?"

"I mean, sure? I can try," Raichu said with a shrug.

Meowstic sighed. "Fine. But I will not be pleased to do so."

"Come on, you're a psychic type," Ninetales teased. "You'll kick so much ass!"

"They have a dark type," Meowstic pointed out flatly. "And the males of my species are more supportive than offensive. I'm at a disadvantage in this environment."

Raichu grinned sheepishly. "Hey, you're like… the smartest person here. I'm sure you can figure it out." Meowstic rolled his eyes but didn't argue.

Gliscor suddenly balanced himself on his tail with a malicious grin. "If that is settled, I shall go first! I will battle the fierce dragon from the unholy lands!" He cackled as he made his dramatic declaration.

The rest of the Groudons exchanged odd glances before Skiploom cleared her throat. "Druddigon. I think he's talking about Druddigon." She pointed toward Floatzel, where the dragon was waiting.

Golduck smirked. "I like the enthusiasm! Go for it, Gliscor!"

"With pleasure~" Gliscor purred before gliding over to Floatzel.

"So far, so good," Skiploom said, smiling softly as she softly talked to herself, "No arguments, everyone went with the flow, and you can heal and support your teammates. Things are looking up!... I think!"

Druddigon and Gliscor were teleported onto the ridge, each landing atop separate hoodoos. Gliscor expertly balanced on his tail, while Druddigon wobbled slightly before steadying himself.

"Looks like you're both in place," Floatzel announced through his megaphone. "Round one: Druddigon for the Kyogres and Gliscor for the Groudons! The battle starts… Now!"

Druddigon chuckled, flashing a smirk in Golduck's direction. "So, Goldy, too scared to face me yourself? Had to send a lackey instead?"

Golduck rolled her eyes. "You wish, Drud!"

The dragon-type let out another chuckle before leaping across the hoodoos, closing in on Gliscor, who remained eerily still. Just as Druddigon prepared to make his final jump, Gliscor suddenly sprang into the air, flipping mid-flight before diving straight at him.

Before Druddigon could react, Gliscor sank his Ice Fang into the dragon's shoulder. "GAH!"

"Oh, shit!" Mightyena barked.

"Druddigon!" Frillish cried out.

Raichu winced. "Oof, that's gotta hurt."

Druddigon sat in the confessional, a heat patch on his shoulder and he rubbed the back of his head. "Not gonna lie… totally forgot Gliscors could learn Ice Fang. But damn that guy came in swinging." After a moment, he starts to laugh, "I like it!"

Gritting his teeth, Druddigon reached up, trying to grab Gliscor, but the flying scorpion nimbly leaped off, landing on another hoodoo with a manic laugh. Clutching his wounded shoulder, Druddigon glared at his opponent.

Gliscor smirked. "I seem to recall you not being a fan of the cold, dragon. Maybe one more bite will send you plummeting!"

Despite the pain, Druddigon grinned. "Yeah, yeah. Just try it! I'm not gonna let a pair of cold fangs take me down!"

"Very well~"

Gliscor launched himself into the air again, fangs glistening with frost as he dove toward Druddigon. But this time, instead of bracing for impact, Druddigon suddenly leaped off his hoodoo, making several of his teammates gasp.

"Druddigon, what the hell are you doing?!" Gothitelle shouted. Dewott gulped beside her, eyes wide.

Druddigon, however, had a plan. He grabbed onto another hoodoo, clinging tightly. "You want me, Gliscor? Come and get me!"

Gliscor let out a gleeful cackle, shifting his dive toward the dragon. His fangs shimmered with ice—until suddenly, massive rocks tumbled from above.

"Gotcha!"

Druddigon had used Rock Slide, baiting Gliscor into an open attack. The scorpion tried to dodge, but a heavy rock smashed into him, sending him plummeting.

A moment later, he was teleported back to his team.

"Match point, Druddigon takes it! That's 1-0 in the Kyogre's favor!"

"Yeah, baby!" Druddigon cheered before vanishing in a flash, reappearing with his team as they erupted in celebration.

Golduck looked at the camera for a moment before shaking her head with a smile, "I got to admit, that was impressive. Almost makes me wish I was the one fighting him this time…" She chuckled to herself, "Who am I kidding, I really wish I did!"

Raichu gulped as she looked off the side nervously, "Is… Is this what this challenge is going to be like?" She sighed looking at the camera concerned, "Maybe volunteering for this was a bit of a mistake."

"Druddigon is just so… cool," Dewott said, leaning back with a blush on his face… before he accidentally fell back on his seat. He quickly shook himself off and got back up. "Ugh… Anyway, Druddgion fought so hard and I'm just a little nervous if I can… you know... Live up to that? I don't want to disappoint him… or the team… or the people who know me watching this… or-"

"Round two! We have Meowstic versus Gothitelle! If you're both ready… BEGIN!"

"You got this, Gothitelle!" Mightyena called from the sidelines. "He's an easy out!"

"I appreciate the confidence, but I'll win regardless, thank you," Gothitelle replied, mostly to herself.

She glanced across the arena at Meowstic, who stood silently on the opposite end, his expression unreadable. The battlefield was similar to the previous round—precarious hoodoos serving as platforms. Taking a moment to steady herself, Gothitelle then spoke up.

"I have a suggestion," she said, keeping her tone even. Meowstic met her gaze coldly but said nothing. "If you're willing to humor me."

Meowstic studied her for a brief moment before replying, "I'm listening."

"I'm sure we're both strong Psychic-types in our own right," she began, "but simply spamming Psychic at each other until one of us wins would be… rather boring for the audience. Wouldn't you agree?" Meowstic gave a small nod. "Good. Then I propose we refrain from using Psychic for this round. Do you agree?"

Meowstic scoffed. "If you wish to handicap yourself, I won't stop you. I accept."

"Wonderful," Gothitelle said with a confident smirk. "Then may the best Pokémon win."

With a snap of her fingers, she launched a Thunderbolt—but Meowstic was unfazed, having already raised a Protect at the sound of her snap. He stared at her, unimpressed.

"Perhaps cuing your attack to an obvious action isn't the best strategy for a surprise attack."

She giggled. "Just keeping you on your toes."

"Then stay on yours."

Without another word, Meowstic used Disarming Voice—but rather than aiming at her, he directed the attack at the hoodoos beneath them. The vibrations sent tremors through the rocky formations, making them shake violently.

"Uh… what is he doing?" Ninetales asked, narrowing her eyes.

"Whatever it is, it's useless," Pancham scoffed. "He's not even attacking her!"

Golduck, however, observed the scene closely before her eyes widened. "Oh! I get it now! Look at Gothitelle!"

The others turned their attention to Gothitelle, who was struggling to maintain her balance on the trembling hoodoo.

"He's using the environment against her," Golduck explained.

"Pretty smart…" Lycanroc admitted. "But he can't keep that up forever."

Raichu crossed her arms. "Hmm… It's Meowstic, though. He probably has a plan."

As the hoodoos finally stopped shaking, Gothitelle regained her footing and exhaled sharply. "That was clever, I admit," she said, locking eyes with Meowstic. "But I don't intend to lose."

Without hesitation, she fired a Dark Pulse directly at him. The attack struck true—yet Meowstic barely reacted, leaving Gothitelle momentarily stunned.

"What? That was super effective! How are you—" Then she saw it. A shimmering barrier surrounded him.

Light Screen.

Meowstic smirked. "A little distraction is perfect for setting up. This is over."

Without another word, he sprang into motion, leaping from hoodoo to hoodoo, rapidly closing the distance between them.

"Not if I have anything to say about it," Gothitelle muttered. She prepared another Thunderbolt, aiming to strike while he was mid-jump.

But before she could release the attack— BAM!

A sudden impact knocked her off her platform. The last thing she saw before she fell was Meowstic retracting his fist, a sly grin on his face. Sucker Punch. "As I said," his voice echoed, "this is over."

A moment later, Gothitelle vanished in a flash, teleported back to her team.

"With that, Meowstic evens it up, 1-1."

Gothitelle was filing her nails in frustration, glaring to the side. Multiple times she tried to open her mouth to say something, and each time she closed it quickly. Eventually she stopped filing and just put her head in her hands, groaning.

"I feel like a fool!"

"Dammit… dammit!" Mightyena growled, his voice rising in frustration. "That cat was smaller than you! How did you lose to that!?"

"Yes, thank you, your unwavering support is truly heartwarming," Gothitelle replied dryly, her sarcasm cutting through Mightyena's aggression.

"This isn't funny!"

"It wasn't meant to be."

"Alright! I'm just gonna cut in here," Meowth interrupted, stepping between them before Mightyena's frustration could escalate further. The feline showed no fear despite the dark-type's intense glare. "If you think you can do better, why not go next? Get your anger out in the fight instead, okay?"

Mightyena kept his glare on Meowth for a moment before letting out a sharp huff. "Fine." Without another word, he turned and stalked over to Floatzel to sign up for his match.

Frillish let out an audible sigh of relief. "Th-Thank you, Meowth."

"No problem," Meowth said, flashing a warm smile. "Just making sure no one gets hurt."

"I don't think he was actually gonna hurt anyone," Dewott mused aloud. "I think he was just… frustrated."

"Please, it's only round two," Gothitelle said dismissively. "We're fine. One loss to an 'easy out' is nothing to get mad over. He wasn't even on the field."

Frillish, however, glanced over at Mightyena, who was still making his way toward Floatzel. There was something in his posture—stiff, tense, heavy. Her expression shifted to concern as she watched him go.

As she floated, Frillish rubbed on her arms with another, "M-Mightyena scares me a little… I j-just don't l-like yelling too much but… I… I want to know why he g-gets mad so e-easily. M-Maybe I can help him too. I-In calming down a little, I mean."

"Hey, I see Mightyena heading over to Floatzel," Raichu announced, turning to her teammates. "Who wants to fight him… because I really don't."

"You literally agreed to be in the challenge," Pancham pointed out, clearly annoyed.

"Yeah, and would you want to fight Mightyena?" Raichu shot back.

Pancham hesitated, then silently stepped back.

"Yeah, that's what I thought."

"But… that just leaves Ninetales," Skiploom noted while using Pollen Puff on Gliscor, who was pinned down by Lycanroc.

"Ahahaha! It tickles!" Gliscor howled in hysterics, squirming beneath Lycanroc's grip.

"Is… is this guy okay?" Lycanroc asked the camera in confusion.

Lycanroc, visibly unsettled, muttered, "This is so weird…"

"It's fine," Ninetales said, stretching as she stood up from her sunbathing spot. "I want to go up against Mr. Brooding over there." With a confident smirk, she sauntered toward Floatzel. "Wish me luck, team!~ I'm gonna bag us a win!"

"Good luck!" Skiploom cheered.

Golduck raised an eyebrow as she watched Ninetales walk off. "Just what is she planning…?"

"Round 3! We have Mightyena and Ninetales! If you're both ready… BEGIN!"

Mightyena let out a low growl, his sharp eyes locked onto the fire-type. "You're going down!"

Without hesitation, he leaped from hoodoo to hoodoo, closing the distance between them. However, partway through, a burst of Flamethrower forced him to change course.

"The hell!?" he snarled.

"I'm not going down without a fight~" Ninetales sang playfully as she hopped away. "Catch me if you can, tough guy~"

Mightyena growled again, his frustration growing as he chased after her. No matter how fast he moved, Ninetales stayed just ahead, occasionally launching another Flamethrower to throw him off, forcing him to adjust his footing. "Get back here, dammit!"

"Can't hear you~"

Meowth was holding a hand over his mouth to try and stifle a laugh… until he was unable to hold back and went into a full belly laugh over what he watched.

Pancham similarly laughed in his seat, laughing so hard he leaned back and fell onto the ground. His laughing paused for a moment before it continued.

Golduck was rubbing a hand to her chin as she considered the display, "Hmm.. I think I get what she's doing. I can't believe I'm saying this… but she's impressing me."

Dolliv watched the battle unfold, humming thoughtfully. "Hmmm, I see…"

Dewott glanced over at her. "Dolliv? What's up?"

"Just observing," Dolliv replied, her tone calm. "And preparing for my own match. Shouldn't you be doing the same?"

"Well, uh…" Dewott hesitated, rubbing the back of his head. "I guess so? Mentally, at least… I think I'm capable enough."

"You are capable, bud! Don't sell yourself short!" Druddigon interjected, giving Dewott a firm pat on the back.

"R-Right… just haven't battled in a long time," Dewott admitted sheepishly.

Dolliv nodded. "Still, if last challenge is anything to go by, you'll be fine. At least there aren't any giant snowballs here." She giggled, while Dewott shivered at the memory.

Druddigon grinned. "Just think of it like a puzzle, not a battle, and you'll do great!"

Dewott gave him an odd look. "...A puzzle?"

"What? I thought you liked puzzles and stuff in your free time."

Dewott gave him a look, though their conversation was abruptly cut short by a loud yell.

Everyone turned just in time to see Mightyena hanging off the edge of a hoodoo, his claws desperately gripping the stone as he struggled to pull himself up.

Ninetales gracefully landed on his platform, careful not to step on his paws. "Well, well, well, what do we have here~"

Mightyena gritted his teeth, still trying to climb up. "NGH! Shut up, bitch! You did this!"

Ninetales feigned innocence, tilting her head. "Who, me? All I did was protect myself."

"You wanted me to miss the platform, dammit!" Mightyena snapped.

"Maybe~ But does it really matter?" Ninetales giggled, flipping her tails behind her. "A girl's gotta win, after all~"

Mightyena roared and unleashed Snarl, forcing Ninetales to step back as she winced. "Ah! Ow!"

"Oh no! She's going to fall!" Skiploom gasped.

"Not quite," Golduck muttered, her eyes narrowing. "Look."

Despite stepping near the edge, Ninetales was perfectly balanced. In fact, she was smirking.

"Well, that was unexpected," she mused. "Okay, bye now~"

"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Mightyena snarled, preparing another Snarl—But before he could fire it off, Ninetales spun around and used Tail Slap—right on his paws. His grip gave out.

"Shit-" Before he could finish, he was teleported back to his team.

"It's 2-1! Groudons could finish this right here!"

Ninetales brushed her tails in the confessional while smirking proudly at the camera, "That dog was too easy to rile up! Just had to wait until a Flamethrower made him mess up and it was easy pickings from there. Oh that was fun~"

"Did I send Mightyena out there knowing he'd mess up?" Meowth asked the camera, "Maybe. Or maybe I figured he'd use his frustration to really sick it on his opponent. Either way, it wasn't a real loss for me. Not like he beat me up or anything."

Frillish floated over to Mightyena, concern evident in her voice. "M-Mightyena, are you okay?"

Mightyena pushed himself up from the ground, his expression twisted in irritation. "I'm fine." Without another word, he turned and started walking away from the team.

"Wh-Where are you—"

"Just leave me alone!" he snapped, his frustration cutting through the air like a blade.

Frillish flinched, her tentacles curling slightly at his harsh tone. Seeing her reaction, Mightyena let out a long sigh, his ears flattening slightly.

"Just… give me a bit alone, alright?" His voice was softer this time, though still firm. With that, he put some distance between himself and the others.

"O-Okay…" Frillish mumbled, watching him go.

A reassuring hand rested on her shoulder—Druddigon. "Give him space," the dragon-type rumbled. "Guy just needs a minute." Frillish sighed but nodded solemnly at his words.

Gothitelle clapped his hands, drawing the team's attention. "We're down to the wire here, people. No pressure, but we have to win these last two matches."

"That's a lot of pressure," Dewott muttered.

Dolliv glanced over at him, then calmly raised her hand. "I will go first, then. I promise not to disappoint you, my teammates."

Gothitelle gave an approving nod. "Great. We'll be rooting for you."

"Truthfully, I wanted to go last," Dolliv explained, "however, for us to win, I felt best to go before Dewott so that provided I win, he will succeed under mounting pressure. Or I'll lose and it won't matter.

She shrugs, "Whatever happens will happen. I played my part regardless."

"Good work, Ninetales," Golduck said as soon as the fox reappeared beside the team.

Ninetales let out a playful hum. "Hmm~ What was that?"

Golduck sighed. "I said, good work. You did a great job stalling him out—and you played to his weakness, too."

Ninetales beamed. "Why, thank you, Golduck! So happy to hear that from you!" Golduck rolled her eyes but didn't push her away just yet.

"Alright! Time to bring it all home!" Pancham declared, striding confidently toward Floatzel. "Watch—I'm gonna win the whole thing!"

"Huh? Okay," Raichu said, unfazed.

Lycanroc stepped up beside her, eyeing Pancham as he walked away. "You're... just gonna let him go?"

Raichu shrugged. "Might as well. Have you seen Pancham? He's scrappy—he can probably handle a fight."

Lycanroc raised a brow but chose not to push the issue. "Just... be ready to go in after him."

"R-Right..."

"Round 4: Dolliv vs. Pancham! If you're both ready… BEGIN!"

"You're going down, chump!" Pancham declared, leaping across the hoodoos to reach her.

Dolliv nodded at his confidence. "I admire your spirit… but it would be a betrayal of these lands if I fell without resistance." She flicked her vines, sending a wave of Magical Leaf at him. Pancham quickly hopped to another hoodoo, dodging the attack with ease before smirking.

"I'm not like Mightyena—you can't just zone me out!" he shouted before pressing his hands together, unleashing a Dark Pulse in Dolliv's direction. She swiftly moved to evade, landing gracefully on another rock formation.

Dolliv let out a soft giggle. "I see. Very well, then. Let us give these lands the battle they deserv—ah!"

Before she could finish, Pancham closed the distance and struck with a rapid Arm Thrust, knocking her off the hoodoo!

Watching from the sidelines, Gliscor scoffed. "Attacking during a monologue? No respect for the craft!"

"I'd interrupt you during your monologues," Lycanroc muttered gloomily.

Gliscor blinked, then huffed. "Hmph… I suppose I'll have to reevaluate our friendship." Lycanroc just stared at him, confused.

Fortunately for Dolliv, she reacted quickly—whipping up a Leaf Storm to propel herself onto another hoodoo instead of falling to her defeat. Pancham wasted no time, immediately leaping toward her with another Arm Thrust… only to strike a Substitute instead.

"What the—AGH!" Pancham yelped as an Energy Ball struck him from the side, sending him tumbling onto his face. He groaned, glancing over to see Dolliv perched on a nearby hoodoo.

"Leaves do make for good cover, don't you think?" she teased.

Pancham gritted his teeth as he pushed himself up. "Very funny." He clenched his fist—ice crystallizing around it. "Now you've asked for it!"

With a short running start, Pancham lunged forward, aiming a powerful Ice Punch at Dolliv. She, in turn, began channeling another Leaf Storm, carefully concentrating the swirling attack. Just as Pancham closed in, she unleashed it—meeting his strike head-on.

The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the battlefield, kicking up a thick cloud of dust and debris.

"Oh shit!" Druddigon blurted.

"I—I can't see them!" Frillish added, his voice full of uncertainty.

"Are… are they okay!?" Skiploom asked, worry creeping into her tone.

Floatzel raised the megaphone in his hands. "Contestants, stay calm… Xatu has been watching closely and will announce the results right about… now!"

A flash of light. Pancham was teleported back to his team. As the dust settled, Dolliv was revealed, clinging desperately to the edge of a hoodoo with one hand. Her grip faltered, and she began to slip—only to be teleported away just in time.

"It appears Pancham was launched by the force of the collision and fell into the pit! That means Dolliv is the winner! We're tied 2-2—send in your final team members for the title match!"

As both teams rushed to check on their returning teammates, Dewott and Raichu steeled themselves for the decisive battle ahead.

"In hindsight," Dewott started, "I should have just fought Pancham." He takes a deep breath, "I got this… I can do this."

"How some of the others can just go into this challenge without being nervous is beyond me," Raichu admitted, "Yeah, I agreed to this… Buuut I was kind of hoping everyone else would win out before I had to go. Is that selfish?"

She sighs, "Well, I guess it doesn't matter now. I have to fight and it's do or die now. Sorry to my opponent and all, but I sort of need to win."

Raichu and Dewott were teleported into place, standing face-to-face. The weight of the final round pressed heavily on their minds, the pressure almost suffocating.

Floatzel chuckled into his megaphone. "Oh, I can feel the tension! Well, if you two are ready… Final Round, BEGIN!"

Raichu raised her hands defensively. "Hey, just so you know, I really didn't want to do this."

Dewott gulped. "Y-Yeah, I get it. No hard feelings?"

"If you let me win, maybe," she joked, shaking her head before sighing. "Ugh, I'm just stalling. Sorry, Dewott!" With that, she fired off a Thunderbolt at him.

Dewott immediately sprang into action, leaping from one hoodoo to another, narrowly dodging the attack. But Raichu wasn't letting up—she fired again, and again, forcing him to keep moving. Dewott yelped each time, hopping in an exhausting, frantic circle around Raichu's hoodoo.

Pancham tilted his head. "Uh… what is she doing? The move's getting weaker every time she spams it."

"He makes a valid point," Meowstic said dismissively, causing Pancham to roll his eyes. "She'll get nowhere with such a haphazard strategy."

"Have some faith in your teammate," Golduck interjected. "I'm sure she has a plan."

"… I doubt it," Lycanroc muttered under his breath—not loud enough for anyone to notice.

"Look, I'm not much of a fighter," Raichu shrugged, "but I'm not dumb or anything. I can keep track of things. Dewott is clumsy, so if I keep making him jump, it's only a matter of time before he trips and falls."

Meanwhile, Dewott panted as he landed on another hoodoo, exhaustion creeping in from all the dodging. He tried catching his breath but knew Raichu wasn't going to give him the chance.

"Sorry in advance!" Raichu called back, launching another Thunderbolt.

Dewott leaped to dodge—only this time, a plan was forming in his mind midair.

"Raichu isn't giving me time to really do anything here, and it's really wearing me down." Dewott explained, "So… I need to make my own opening!"

As Dewott landed, he wobbled, arms flailing. "Whoa—whoa whoa WHOA!"

"Dewott!" Druddigon shouted, mild panic in his voice. "STAND YOUR GROUND!"

"Balance, Dewott!" Gothitelle urged.

But balance wouldn't save him—he toppled backward, arms still flailing as he plummeted off the hoodoo. Raichu's eyes widened before breaking into a grin. "That… That worked? YES!"

"See? I told you guys!" Golduck smirked proudly. Pancham rolled his eyes again.

"Huh? Do you guys—"

"Goodbye, blue otter! Your demise is just what we needed for victory!" Gliscor cackled.

"I… I don't think it's that serious, Gliscor," Skiploom chuckled nervously despite smiling.

"Guys!" Lycanroc suddenly barked, snapping everyone's attention toward him. Even the Kyogres turned to look. In the sudden silence, Dewott's distant yell was still going.

"Uh… why can I still hear Dewott?" Ninetales asked. "Is he just being dramatic over there?"

Skiploom floated up slightly, scanning the other team. "No, he's not over there… Wait, but didn't he lose?"

Lycanroc rubbed the back of his head. "I don't think he—"

Before he could finish, Dewott's yell grew louder. A second later, he shot up from below with a powered-up Aqua Jet, soaring straight for Raichu!

"What…" Raichu stammered out, looking utterly stunned, "What.. was that!?"

"That.. That was in-inncredible!" Frillish shouted in glee, clapping her hands.

Pancham scoffed, "It wasn't that impressive. I totally could have done that in my match. I was just… caught off guard and all. Yeah."

Raichu barely had time to react before instinctively Volt Switching out of the way, avoiding the impact at the last second.

Dewott landed, locking eyes with her. Raichu gulped. "N-No hard feelings, right, Dewott?" she asked nervously.

Dewott smirked. "None at all. Think fast!"

He launched himself at her with another Aqua Jet. Raichu yelped, hastily Volt Switching again to avoid it.

"O-Oh, Arceus, I was not ready for that…" she muttered to herself. Looking up, she saw Dewott darting from hoodoo to hoodoo, moving fast, a scalchop gripped in his paw. "Okay… I… I think I can do this."

She fired another Thunderbolt, aiming to knock him off once more. Dewott jumped to dodge—but this time, midair, he retaliated with a Water Pulse. Raichu had no choice but to Volt Switch yet again to evade.

On the sidelines, Druddigon smirked. "We won."

Meowth gave him a side-eye. "Uh, what?"

"We won."

"Druddigon, we haven't—"

"Just watch."

Raichu landed on another hoodoo, scanning for Dewott—only to realize she had fallen right into his trap. With a blinding flash of blue, Dewott rocketed toward her with Aqua Jet.

Raichu's ears flattened. "Oh shi—AGH!"

The impact sent her flying off the battlefield, plummeting into the deep with no way to recover.

Dewott landed smoothly, flashing a cheesy grin. "Sorry!"

Moments later, Raichu was teleported to her team by Xatu.

"That's it!" Floatzel announced. "Dewott has won it for the Krashing Kyogres!"

"THAT'S IT, FOLKS! 3-2—DEWOTT HAS WON IT FOR THE KRASHING KYOGRES!"

The Kyogres erupted into cheers, Dewott celebrating right along with them—until he accidentally tripped and fell off the hoodoo again.

This time, Xatu teleported him straight to his team, where Druddigon immediately scooped him up in a massive bear hug. "That's my little buddy!"

"Ack! Druddigon! Let go!" Dewott wheezed, arms flailing. The rest of the Kyogres burst into laughter at the sight.

Meanwhile, Floatzel sauntered up to the Gigantic Groudons with a smirk. "Tsk, tsk, tsk… looks like you just couldn't pull off the win."

Golduck sighed. "No need to rub it in."

"Oh, but it's part of the job," Floatzel chuckled at her expense. "Once we're back on Normilne Island, I'll need to see you all at the elimination area immediately."

"Wh-What!?" Skiploom gasped. "But… don't we get time to figure out the elimination?"

"Not tonight, you don't," Floatzel replied, grinning deviously. "Tonight's elimination will be a little special. Get ready~"

The Groudons exchanged uneasy glances as Floatzel walked away, all of them silently agreeing on one thing—dread.

Meowstic looked into the camera with his normal cold expression mixed with annoyance, "This team losing again is quite frustrating. At the very least I should remain in this competition thanks to my performance today. Regardless, with no time to discuss, this will likely be… interesting."

Raichu sighed before putting her head in her hands, "Ughhhh, I blew it! And we don't have time to talk about the vote… I'm so gone!"

"Is it wrong to admit that I doubted Dewott?" Gothitelle asked no one in particular, "It couldn't be helped, outside a bit of the first challenge he never screamed 'Strong Player' to me. But I suppose I was wrong."

The sun was setting on the horizon as the camera panned to the Elimination Area of Normilne Island. Both teams were present—the Groudons seated around the campfire while the Kyogres stood off to the side. Floatzel stood at his usual spot, but something immediately stood out: there were no berries in sight.

"Floatzel, we won," Mightyena stated bluntly. "Why the hell are we here?"

"And why don't you have the berries for elimination?" Dewott added.

"And why is this happening at sunset?" Ninetales questioned. "Aren't eliminations usually at night?"

"Settle down, settle down!" Floatzel said sternly, regaining control before clearing his throat. "Tonight, we're doing things a little differently. Gigantic Groudons, despite your loss in today's challenge… you will not be voting someone off the show!" Gasps erupted from almost all the contestants, making Floatzel chuckle. "You're all safe… for now."

"Then what is happening tonight?" Meowstic asked. "And what do they have to do with it?" She gestured toward the Kyogres.

"I'm glad you asked!" Floatzel said with a grin. "Tonight is a reward challenge—so winners and losers still matter. As such, I need two volunteers from the Kyogres and one from the Groudons. However… these volunteers must be among those who won their matches for the winning team and those who lost their matches for the losing team."

The teams exchanged uncertain glances, unsure of what they were volunteering for. Druddigon, Dolliv, Dewott, Gliscor, Pancham, and Raichu were eligible, so all eyes quickly turned to them. Silence filled the air until someone spoke up.

"I'll volunteer for our team," Raichu said, raising her hand. "I… lost my match. I failed when it mattered most, so it's only fair I volunteer for… whatever is about to happen."

"Oh? How noble of you~" Gliscor teased before grunting as Lycanroc elbowed him.

"Stop."

"If this is what you want…" Golduck said solemnly. "Then very well." Raichu nodded, and from the looks of it, none of her teammates objected.

"Yeah… Gliscor, Pancham, you're good, okay?" Raichu assured them.

"Sure, thanks," Gliscor responded with a nod.

"Whatever," Pancham said nonchalantly.

Pancham shrugged, "Better her than me."

"If this is a reward, it must be good since we won," Mightyena reasoned.

"Not a bad line of logic," Gothitelle agreed. "The real question is—who isn't volunteering?"

The trio of potential volunteers glanced at each other before Dolliv spoke up. "I wish to take part in this, if that would be alright with you both?"

"Sure!" Druddigon confirmed. "And… Dewott, why don't you take the other spot? You clutched the challenge for us today!"

"Are… are you sure?" Dewott asked doubtfully. "You're kind of better overall, and—"

"Oi, don't talk like that!" Druddigon cut him off firmly. "You did great today. Take the reward!"

Dewott looked up at the dragon type, his face flushing slightly before he nodded. "Okay. I'll take it."

With the decision made, Dewott, Dolliv, and Raichu stepped forward.

"Alright, we have our volunteers," Floatzel grinned. "Congratulations… you're all switching teams!"

The trio's expressions quickly morphed into various levels of stunned silence.

"W-What!?"

"No way…"

"I… I see."

Druddigon looked absolutely troubled as he was seated, "Shit did... Did I... Did I just… No I couldn't have… Oh fuck what did I do!?"

"Wait, you're taking them off our team!?" Meowth interjected. "What kind of reward is that!?"

"Th-That d-doesn't seem very… r-reward-like to me," Frillish stammered.

Golduck, though silent, looked visibly stressed at the news. Skiploom noticed. "Hey, are… are you okay?"

"Huh? O-Oh yeah. I'm fine," Golduck clearly lied, but Skiploom had the feeling it was best not to press further.

Floatzel chuckled at the reactions. "Not all rewards come free in this world. But trust me," he turned to the Kyogres, "your team does gain an advantage here. Or at least, your volunteers do."

"And if I might ask," Dolliv began, "what exactly is this advantage?"

"Easy. You and Dewott will switch teams," Floatzel explained, pausing for dramatic effect, "and you will get to choose someone from the opposing team to switch places with you!"

"You're joking!" Ninetales exclaimed. "Like, totally joking!"

"No jokes here!" Floatzel confirmed. "So, Dolliv and Dewott, no outside help, and you can't pick Raichu. I'll give you some time to decide… GO!"

Dolliv and Dewott exchanged glances—one calm, the other nervous—as they mulled over their choices.

"Well, this might not be so bad for me," Dolliv said, "I do care for my team, I do… However, seeing as my main ally is on the other team, my loyalty in terms of this game should lay there. And now I can focus more on that and restart building relationships. I will take this twist in stride. As for who I should send over… I see no reason to overcomplicate this."

"Why… Why… Why?!" Dewott shouted to himself, clearly looking anxious over the recent news, "Things were going so well and now… Now this! What am I supposed to do!? Druddigon can't have my back anymore and I… Arceus what am I going to do now!?"

Dewott stops talking and darts his eyes around the tent as he takes a breath, "And I still have to pick someone to replace me… I don't really know the other team too well… but uh… I guess I'll just go off performance comparable to mine?"

Dolliv cleared her throat. "I have decided to switch teams with Pancham."

"H-Huh, what?!" Pancham looked utterly shocked.

"You and I faced off today," Dolliv explained. "I thought it would only be fair."

"And uh, I…" Dewott hesitated, glancing at the Groudons before taking a deep breath and confirming his choice. "I… I'll switch with Lycanroc. S-Sorry!"

Lycanroc blinked in surprise. "Me?"

"He picked… Me?" Lycanroc confusingly looked at his own hand as he said that, "Why… I can't be that notable to him."

Floatzel clapped his hands. "Alright then, you four, switch sides!"

Lycanroc and Pancham stood from their seats, making their way to their new teams while Dewott and Dolliv took seats among theirs.

"Greetings, everyone. I do hope we can all get along well," Dolliv said with a warm smile to her new teammates. Beside her, Dewott simply nodded, clearly nervous.

"Me too!" Skiploom beamed. "I know this happened so fast, but we can do our best regardless."

Meowstic merely glanced at Dolliv, silently acknowledging the advantage her presence now brought.

Uncharacteristically silent, Gliscor eyed Lycanroc, the wolf now standing among his new team. The Ground-type frowned.

"Well then," Gliscor said quietly, "This is quite a shame."

Gothitelle offered a warm smile. "Welcome to our team."

"Yeah, yeah," Pancham said nonchalantly. "Just don't get in my way, and we'll be winning here."

Mightyena scoffed. "Yeah, whatever you say, shortstack."

"You say somethin'!?"

"Nah, must be mishearing."

While Pancham fumed, Lycanroc remained quiet, staring off to the side. Frillish floated over, her expression one of concern. "Lycanroc, a-are you okay?"

"...Huh?" Lycanroc blinked and turned to her. "Oh. Yeah. I'm okay."

"You l-looked like you were z-zoning out a little." Frillish tilted her head.

"Just... surprised?" he muttered. Frillish raised a brow but decided to leave it be—she didn't know him well enough to press further. Instead, she floated over to a distraught Druddigon and gently patted him on the back.

"Thanks…" Druddigon murmured.

Meanwhile, Raichu turned to Floatzel, looking slightly anxious. "Hey, Floatzel? What about me? Am I switching with someone too or what?"

"Oh yeah! Almost forgot," Floatzel said with a mischievous grin. "Since you and your team lost the challenge… the volunteer from the losing team—that's you, Raichu—will be switching to the opposing team without swapping with anyone else!"

Raichu's eyes widened as her former teammates looked equally shocked.

"No. Way," Ninetales barely whispered.

"That…" Gliscor started, "that is madness."

"That's not fair!" Golduck protested, visibly shaken.

"Those are the ups and downs of the reward," Floatzel explained with a shrug. "The Kyogres get an extra number, and you lose one."

Golduck opened her mouth to argue further but ultimately clenched her jaw shut.

"You can head to your new team now, Raichu."

With a gulp, Raichu made her way over to the Kyogres. "Um… hey."

"Welcome!" Meowth stepped forward, extending a hand with his signature, award-winning grin. "Glad to have 'ya around."

With a sigh, Raichu took his hand for a handshake.

"Should I be happy that I'm still here… or bothered that I'm on a team with Meowth now?" Raichu asked herself, "I frankly have no idea.

"Alright, you're all dismissed!" Floatzel announced. "Dinner's waiting!"

The contestants began leaving the elimination area, heading toward their meal. However, Meowth didn't let go of Raichu's hand and intentionally lagged behind the others.

"So, we an alliance now?" he asked casually.

"Wh-What!?" Raichu yelped, caught off guard by his bluntness.

Meowth quickly shushed her. "Keep it down. Look, you and I already spend a lot of time together… and now you're on a new team. Having me by your side is bound to come in handy."

Raichu considered his words before sighing. "Okay… Fine, I'm in. Now can you let go of my hand?"

He smirked playfully. "Hmmm, no. I think I like it. Don't you~?"

Raichu's response was immediate—she zapped him with a jolt of electricity until he finally let go. "Now I like it. Much better this way." She then hurried to catch up with the others, while Meowth followed shortly after, still grinning despite the shock.

Meowth had his hands behind his head as he smirked, "Oh this is just perfect~"

"You heard it here first, the teams have swapped!" Floatzel announced to the camera as he flashed an award winning smile. "Just how will this shake up the dynamics on the islands? Will Dewott keep the momentum? Will Pancham finally belong somewhere? Oh the possibilities are just too juicy to pass up! Want to know who's the first victim of this new gamestate? Find out right here next time on Total… Pokemon… Elemental!"

And with that, this chapter has come to an end. Uh, "Oops" is all I have to say on how long this took lol. But hey it's completed, done, and now you've read it!

No Elimination, Suprised? To give some breathing room to the characters and plot lines, a non elim or two might be happening here in the pre merge. Just to keep the story on a good pace. But to add to it, a team swap also happened so that all stakes in the episode didn't just die at no elimination. Plus now we can shake up some of the dynamics as well! I do wanna take a moment to thank everyone to took the time to complete the survey I created on Discord after Episode 4 came out. Some of those who swapped teams were influnced by the resultsm among just trying to improve in writting in general. Thanks y'all!

I overall hope you enjoyed this chapter and look forward to what's to come. Someone will be eliminated next time so it's only a matter of who! Leave a review if you feel so inclined and I'll see you all next time!

[As always, thank you TPReboot not only for editing, but advice consultation. Thanks man]