Episode 76: Balance of Power
The next day, it's the official day of Mew's Gym Battle against Norman, the Petalburg City Gym leader.
Mew walks over to take her place on the battlefield.
Mew calls out, "Hey, Norman, just so you know, Pikachu, Eevee, and I don't plan on leaving this gym or this city without a badge."
"Pika Pika." (Absolutely.) Pikachu says.
"Eevee!" (That's right!) Eevee says.
"Well, it's that kind of confidence and spirit that's made me look forward to this rematch for the longest," Norman says.
Over on the sidelines, everyone was eagerly anticipating the start of the battle.
"I'm super excited to see how this battle's gonna turn out," May says.
"You're not the only ones!" Tomo says.
"I can't wait for the battle to get started!" Jen says.
"Well, just so you know that dad doesn't have a chance at winning.," Max says.
"Relax, Max. No one said your dad's gonna lose," Brock says.
"That's true. We're just really excited for this battle," Zinnia says.
"Especially since Mew and you didn't get to finish their last battle," Jen says.
"Well guys, some people are saying dad's so strong he could become a member of the Elite Four of the region," Max says.
"Really?" Molly asks.
"Yeah. He's just really strong," Max says, "But, then again, I'm not saying that Mew hasn't gotten stronger too. But I don't think she's a match for dad, yet."
"Max, maybe you should lay off the soda for a while, huh?" May says.
"She's right, honey. I think you need to relax," Caroline says, "I know this is the first time you've seen your dad in a gym battle, but you should enjoy it regardless of the results. I have a feeling this is going to be a good one."
Meanwhile, in a cave behind a waterfall, Team Rocket has set up a lair for themselves
"Feast your eyes," Meowth says and unrolls, "Dese are da plans for our super secret super deluxe Hoenn League hideout."
Jessie and James smile.
And Jessie says, "The best part, the boss will think we're super when he sees this."
James says in tears, "Finally, our hard work had paid off and our dreams are coming true."
Jessie and Meowth get teary
And Meowth says, "And once this dream is for real, we'll invite the boss to the biggest base form warming wingding dey ever saw! Now let me hear it!
"Big promotions!"" Jessie says.
"Corporate credit cards!" James says.
"Boss' favorite!" Team Rocket cheers.
"WOOOOBBUFFET! ("THAAAAT'S the dream!")
Back at the gym, the battle is about to begin.
Kenny announces, "This Petalburg gym battle will now begin! Each trainer will use three Pokémon, when all of the challenger's or the gym leader's Pokémon are unable to continue battling, the match will end. Only the challenger may substitute Pokémon during the battle.
Norman calls out, "Okay, Mew, ready?"
"You bet!" Mew says.
Norman then brings out his first Pokemon, "For my first Pokémon, I choose Slakoth!" And then throws his Pokeball..
Slakoth then comes out of the Pokeball.
"Slakoth, huh? Cool," Mew says. She then calls out, "Ready, Pikachu?"
"Pikachu! (You know it!) Pikachu says before leaping off of Mew's shoulder.
"Time to see how much of your hard work will pay off," Norman says.
"Yeah, and I'm about to show you!" Mew says and calls out, "Pikachu, Quick Attack!"
Pikachu darts forward, but Slakoth simply moves aside
"Wow. It dodged without being told to," Mew says.
"I never expected that," May says.
Then Norman calls out, "Slakoth, use Shadow Ball, now!"
Slakoth launches the attack.
Mew then calls out, "Dodge and use Iron Tail!"
Pikachu leaps up and tries to hit Slakoth across the face with the attack, but Slakoth leans back and causes the attack to miss while Pikachu spins in the air like a top.
"Looks like Pikachu's speed isn't enough," Mew says.
Max cheers, "Way to go, Slakoth! That's showing em!"
"Amazing. Pikachu hasn't even been able to get one attack to land," May says, surprised.
Pikachu backs away as sparks come from his cheeks.
Norman then calls out, "Slakoth, Hidden Power!"
Slakoth creates a ring of energy orbs before sending them at Pikachu and though Pikachu dodges a couple, they soon surround him
"Whoa! Pikachu's completely surrounded!" Zinnia says, shocked.
Then Mew calls out, "Pikachu, use a Thunderbolt to destroy them!"
Pikachu charges one up, but the orbs close in and nail him before he could let it loose, sending him flying back to Mew.
"Are you alright, buddy?" Mew asks.
Pikachu struggles to get back on all fours.
"Wow, I never knew Hidden Power could be used like that," Max says.
"Wow. Mew has been missing the mark completely," Max says.
"Yeah. Pikachu's speed is not cutting it," Jen says.
But then Brock realizes, "Wait a minute! Now I know why Norman started with Slakoth!"
"What do you mean?" Max asks.
"Think about it, when in a battle, Mew usually starts off with a long string of speedy attacks, right?" Brock explains.
"Yeah," Molly replies.
Then Brock says, "Normally it works since it's enough to throw off a regular opponent and give Mew early control of the battle. But not with Slakoth, because no matter what kind of speed or power attack Mew goes for, Slakoth manages to sidestep, move, sway or squirm out of the way. And because of that it gives Norman the unique ability to fight at whatever pace he wants. That makes Slakoth the perfect Pokemon to start out with."
"That's exactly right, Brock. Well said," Caroline says.
"I never knew. Slakoth is an amazing Pokemon," May says.
"Which means dad's had control of this battle right from the start," Max says.
"But Mew won't give up that easily," Tomo says.
Pikachu finally manages to stand up and shake out the cobwebs.
"Do you think you can keep going?" Mew calls out.
"Pika Pika!" (You know I am!) Pikachu says.
"Good, that's just the kind of determination I like to see," Norman says.
Mew says in thought, "Slakoth is proven to be tough, and speed isn't going to work in this case. I better try a different approach.
Mew then calls out, "Pikachu, Thunder!"
Pikachu launches the attack.
Then Norman calls out, "Dodge and use Blizzard!
Slakoth does so, sending Pikachu flying back to Mew while she keeps down.
"Pikachu, try Thunder again!" Mew calls out.
Pikachu tries to charge up, but can't
"Oh, no! Are you okay?" Mew calls out.
Pikachu starts shivering
"Pikachu, can you move?!" Mew calls out.
Everyone else started feeling the effects of the Blizzard
Max shivers, "I'm freezing."
"You aren't the...only one...Max," Jen says, shivering.
"How long can a Blizzard attack go on?" May asks, shivering.
"Looks like Slakoth has been working both on offensive and defensive measures," Brock says, shivering.
Mew calls out, "Pikachu, return!"
Pikachu leaps back toward Mew just as the Blizzard stops.
Mew then calls out, "Torkoal, you're up!"
And Torkoal comes out.
"That's an interesting choice," Norman says.
"Wonder why Mew called Pikachu back and sent Torkoal out instead?" May asks.
"Because of the Blizzard attack. Pikachu couldn't move," Zinnia says.
"And Pikachu would have turned into a Poké-popsicle," Jen says.
Mew then calls out, "Torkoal, Flamethrower, now!"
Torkoal launches the attack.
Norman calls out, "Blizzard, Slakoth!"
Slakoth launches the when both attacks collide, the building starts heating up.
"Excuse me, but can we turn off the heat?" May calls out.
The Flamethrower ultimately overpowers the Blizzard and hits Slakoth right in the face, sending it flying right into Norman's arms, though knocked out
"Slakoth!" Norman calls out in shock.
Kenny announces, "Slakoth is unable to battle! Torkoal is the winner!"
Torkoal starts crying tears of joy.
Mew giggles, "I know you're happy that you won your match, but let's wait until we finish the battle, okay."
Max is shocked, "No way. How could daddy's Slakoth lose this one?"
But Caroline reassures, "Max, it's going to be fine."
Everyone turns to Caroline, confused.
"What do you mean, mom?" May asks.
"You'll see, just keep watching, kids," Caroline says.
Soon, Norman says, "Mew, your decision to substitute Pikachu for Torkoal was a wise one, and I'm quite impressed by that Flamethrower. You've raised your Torkoal well."
He then gets out another Pokeball and calls out, "Shall we continue? Vigoroth, I choose you!"
And Vigoroth comes out.
"I knew that was next," Mew says.
Pikachu and Eevee agree.
"Alright Torkoal, let's give it an Overheat!" Mew calls out.
Torokal launches the attack, but Vigoroth jumps to avoid it.
"Oh, no!" Mew says, shocked.
Then Norman calls out, "Vigoroth, use Scratch!"
"Torkoal, look out!" Mew cries out.
But with one swipe of Vigoroth's claws, Torkoal was knocked out.
"Torkoal!" Mew calls out.
Pikachu and Eevee are shocked.
Kenny announces, "Torkoal is unable to battle, Vigoroth is the winner!"
"An excellent job, Vigoroth," Norman says.
Vigoroth swings its arms around in response
"Vigoroth beat Torkoal with just one attack!" Max says, excited.
"Why not," May says, "This battle is so exhausting I'll believe anything."
"Uh Max, you need to calm down," Jen says.
Then Brock says, "I'm impressed with Norman's overall strategy. He started with his slow-moving Slakoth and then went to his high speed Vigoroth. That's enough to confuse any challenger. It's a really great plan. It allows Norman to test the limits and abilities of his opponents."
"That's right. You hit the nail right on the head," Caroline says.
"Wow. Norman is really good," Zinnia says.
"Really good," May says.
"Of course, what do you expect," Max says.
Mew then asks, "Ready to get back in there Pikachu?
"Pika! (Roger!) Pikachu says and leaps back into the battle.
"So, we're revisiting old, familiar ground, huh? Okay, then let's see what's on your mind, Mew," Norman says.
"There's only one thing on my mind, not losing," Mew says, "Besides, I promised Pikachu that he can have a rematch with your Vigoroth since he didn't get to finish the battle last time. "
Meanwhile, back in Team Rocket's hideout, the three were tunneling.
Meowth calls out, "Hey, not over there! Why can't you two follow directions!"
"We can follow directions fine, just not yours," Jessie says.
"If you're so hung up on directions, give up the blow horn and we'll direct you," Jessie says.
"Wobbuffet," (James is right.) Wobbuffet says.
"The only reason I'm callin' the shots, is we need someone in charge with brains like me to boss around bums with brawns like you," Meowth says.
But then Jessie and James respond by placing a box on him.
"The brawn bums have voted you out," Jessie says.
"Welcome to the working class," James says.
Then Meowth suggests, "Why don't we just hire real workers?"
"Team Rocket is against outsourcing!" Jessie and James refuse.
Then Wobbffet says, "Wobbuffet!" (BAAAACK to work!)
Meanwhile, back at the gym…
Mew calls out, "Pikachu, Thunderbolt!"
Pikachu fires the attack, but Vigoroth quickly leaps to the left to avoid it.
"Whoa, that was fast!" Mew says.
"Pika." (I'll say.) Pikachu agrees.
Norman then calls out, "Okay, Vigoroth, use Scratch!"
Vigoroth leaps off the wall and darts toward Pikachu.
Mew then calls out, "Iron Tail, Pikachu!"
Pikachu throws the attack, easily countering the oncoming Scratch.
"Whoa, it worked!" Max says, shocked.
"That was great!" Mew cays.
Then Norman calls out, "Flamethrower!"
"Uh oh," Mew says.
Vigoroth launches the attack, "hitting Pikachu in the face and sending him flying, though he lands on all fours as smoke comes off him.
"Are you okay, Pikachu?" Mew asks.
"Pika." (I'm good.) Pikachu answers.
"It's so cool that dad got Vigoroth to use Flamethrower!" Max says, amazed.
"Well, I think it's Mew's determination that's got your father all fired up. He's not going with his usual game plan, you know," Caroline says.
May calls out, "Mew, try substituting!"
"No May, Mew will only have one left," Tomo says.
"Now that Mew knows Vigoroth can use Flamethrower, Pikachu is her only chance in this round. And look, Pikachu's just as determined to win as Mew," Brock says.
"I'm surprised that you haven't substituted Pokémon yet," Norman says.
"Pikachu and I are still raring to go," Mew says.
"Pika Pika!" (You got that right!) Pikachu says and sparks start flying from his cheeks.
Mew says in thought, "I know! If speed won't do the trick, we'll use electricity. That'll stop Vigoroth in its tracks," Then calls out, "Pikachu, use Quick Attack!"
Pikachu darts forward
Norman calls out, "Vigoroth, Flamethrower, go!"
Vigoroth fires the attack.
Mew calls out, "Dodge it and keep running!"
Pikachu does so
Norman calls out, "Scratch attack, Vigoroth!"
Vigoroth closes in.
"Now, stop!" Mew calls out.
"Stop?" Norman says confused.
Vigoroth hits Pikachu, but Pikachu lets out an electrical jolt right as he makes contact with Vigoroth.
"It's using static electricity!" Norman says, shocked.
"What's happening?" May asks.
Brock says, "Because of an electrical Pokémon's physicality, they can sometimes paralyze an opponent just by touching them."
"It must be pretty powerful to stop Vigoroth," May says.
"It's risky, but Mew knows she needs to stop Vigoroth from moving," Tomo says.
Vigoroth staggers backwards
Then Mew calls out, "Now, Pikachu, use Iron Tail!"
Pikachu uses Iron tail and strikes at Vigoroth down and out.
Kenny announces, "Vigoroth is unable to battle, Pikachu wins!"
"You were awesome, buddy!" Mew says.
"Pikachu!" (I did it!) Piakchu says, but suddenly, he collapses from exhaustion.
"Pikachu!" Mew calls out and runs to him.
Kenny also announces, "Pikachu is also unable to battle!"
Everyone is surprised to see what happened.
"They're both down?" Max says, shocked.
"Oh, no!" May, Molly, and Jen say, shocked.
Mew picks up Pikachu, "You did great Pikachu. You give it everything you got."
Pikachu slowly nods, feeling tired.
"You get a good long rest," Mew says, and gives Pikachu a soft kiss on the forehead.
She then says, "But now I only have one Pokemon left, and Norman will be using Slaking for this battle match. I need to make this count or I'll lose this battle."
Not long after, Mew hands Pikachu to Brock. Pikachu is very tired from the battle, and needs a good rest.
"Take care of Pikachu, okay?" Mew asks.
"I will," Brock says.
Mew then returns to the battlefield.
Norman then says, "You know, Mew, I'm very impressed with the progress you made. But like it or not, this is the last round, so you better make it a good one."
"I know," Mew says.
Max turns to Caroline, "You think dad's feeling a bit sorry for Mew?
"I actually think he's having a really good time," Caroline says.
"He is? Wow," Max says, surprised.
Then Mew calls out, "Go, Grovyle, I choose you!"
And Gorvyle comes out.
Then Norman calls out, "Slaking, let's go!"
And Slaking comes out.
Then the two sternly glare at each other.
"Oh wow," Tomo says.
"Yeah. Talk about two big scary Pokemon," May says.
"Yeah. I wouldn't want to get between those two," Caroline says.
Mew then calls out, "Okay, Grovyle, Bullet Seed!"
Grovyle fires the attack.
Then Norman calls out, "Block it, Slaking!"
Slaking does so with its big hands before an explosion occurs. Mew looks carefully, same with Grovyle. When the smoke clears, Slaking is unscathed.
"Looks like Slaking is stronger than I thought," Mew says.
"Grovyle." (Sure is.) Grovyle.
Max is amazed, "Cool!
"It blocked every one of those seeds!" Zinnia says.
"Looks like Slaking's hands have been built up so much, they're almost like two steel plates," Brock says.
"And that's not all. Because Slaking is the Lazy Pokémon, a weak attack like that won't arouse any interest," Norman says.
"Wow. Alright, then," Mew calls out, "Grovyle, Leaf Blade!"
Grovyle charges forward, ready to throw the attack
Norman then calls out, "Grab on to one of those Leaf Blades, Slaking!"
Slaking does so
"Oh, no!" Mew cries out.
"Okay, now throw it back!" Norman calls out.
Slaking does so, sending Grovyle onto its side.
"Now that's what you call power," Max says, amazed.
"That's for sure," May says.
Tomo says, "Slaking's got more than a strong defense."
"Yeah. Like a whole lot of muscle and speed," Brock says.
Then Norman calls out, "Use Focus Punch, now!"
Slaking charges, ready to throw the attack.
Mew calls out, "Bullet Seed, go!"
Grovyle fires the attack and hits Slaking in the face, cancelling out the Focus Punch and causing Slaking to stagger back.
"Good job, Grovyle," Mew says.
But just as Grovyle lands, they both notice Slaking's expression becoming a lot more serious before it starts pounding its chest.
"Grovyle." (Oh, my.) Grovyle says.
"Uh oh," Mew says, worried.
Molly wonders, "What's it doing?"
"That Bullet Seed to the face made Slaking angry," Caroline says.
"I'll say," May says.
"Not good," Jen says.
"Slaking is really getting into the battle now," Brock says.
"I know Mew is ready for this," Zinnia says.
Then Norman calls out, "Alright, Slaking, Earthquake!"
Slaking leaps and lands with a massive thud, allowing the Earthquake to rock the building.
Underground, Team Rocket could feel the Earthquake as they tunneled on.
"Is this normal?" James asks.
"What do you think, Meowth?" Jessie asks.
Meowth cries out, "Oithquake! Run fer your lives!"
"Wobbuffet!" (Grab your helmets!) Wobbuffet panics.
Soon, three Dugtrio surface as the Earthquake stops before they head forward.
"Must've been caused by those dingy Dugtrio," James says.
"Dey sure know how ta rock da house," Meowth says.
"Well, if it's rock they want, then they can have this," Jessie says and kicks one at the Dugtrio.
The rock hits them, causing them to look back angrily before charging towards Team Rocket. Team Rocket runs away as the mole Pokemon chase them around in a circle.
Team Rocket cries out, "Looks like Team Rocket's digging their wheels again!"
Back on the surface, in the gym, the battle continues.
Mew calls out, "Quick, Grovyle, jump!"
Grovyle does so and jumps in the air.
Mew then calls out, "Try a Pound attack!
Grovyle comes down with it, but Slaking catches it
"Good, now send it flying!" Norman says.
Slaking swings it around before throwing it up to the roof.
Then Mew calls out, "Use Bullet Seed, Grovyle, now!"
Grovyle sends itself forward from the roof before firing the attack.
Then Norman calls out, "Hyper Beam, Slaking!"
Slaking fires the attack and collides with the Bullet Seed before overpowering it and hitting Grovyle in the face before sending it flying and pounding its chest in victory when Grovyle lands on its back.
"Grovyle!" Mew calls out.
"Slaking is just too strong!" May says.
"Yeah. Especially the ability to use Hyper Beam," Brock says.
"And it can use Focus Punch," Tomo adds.
Soon, Grovyle gets back up.
This has Max shocked, "Grovyle got up?!"
Grovyle winces.
"Grovyle, are you okay?" Mew asks.
Soon, Norman calls out, "Mew, wait! It's obvious that Slaking's Hyper Beam took a lot out of Grovyle. There's no shame in surrendering when the safety of your Pokémon comes into question. In fact, it's a trainer's responsibility."
Just then, Grovyle says, "Grovyle." (I'll fight.)
Grovyle looks at Slaking with newfound determination, catching everyone off-guard, even Norman.
"Grovyle, are you sure you want to keep going?" Mew asks.
Grovyle turns to Mew and says, "Gro, vyle. (Sure, Mew.)
Mew sees the determination in his eyes.
Mew soon nods and shows determination as well, "Okay, then I'm with you. Now let's show Norman what you're REALLY made of!"
Grovyle suddenly gets a green aura to surround it.
Mew gasps, "Grovyle?!"
"Astounding!" Norman says, astonished.
"That's incredible!" Caroline says.
Max was dumbfounded.
"What kind of move is that?" Jen asks.
"It's Overgrow," Brock says.
"Overgrow?" May questions.
It's an ability that both Treecko and Grovyle have that magnifies the power of their grass attacks if they ever become exhausted in battle," Brock says.
"So why'd it wait until now?" Max asks.
"I guess, Grovyle needed the complete confidence that Mew has in its battling skills as well as not wanting to let down the other Pokémon on Mew's team. Because of that, Grovyle was able to muster up its last bit of strength to trigger Overgrow," Brock says.
Mew then says, "Alright, Grovyle, let's finish it!"
"So, I guess the real battle's starting now," Norman says, and calls out, "Go, Slaking, use Earthquake!"
Slaking leaps and slams the ground, causing the building to rock, again.
Mew then calls out, "Quick, jump, Grovyle!"
Grovyle does so
"Stop Grovyle!" Norman calls out.
Slaking prepares to do so
Then Mew calls out, "Grovyle, jump and bounce off Slaking!"
Grovyles does so, using Slaking's arm and head to do it before bouncing off the wall and off of Slaking's head again.
Norman then calls out, "Bring it down with Hyper Beam!"
Slaking fires the attack, but Grovyle bounces off the wall, causing it to miss.
Mew then calls out, "Pound, Grovyle!"
Grovyle then attacks and hits Slaking in the face, hard enough for it to stagger backwards.
"Alright!" Mew says.
"Wow. As long as Grovyle jumps, Earthquakes can't do anything," May says.
"Right. And with Grovyle's excellent jumping abilities, that shouldn't be a problem," Brock says.
"But remember, Slaking has other attacks as well, so Mew really needs to think on what to do about it," Zinnia says.
On the battlefield, Slaking is down to a knee.
"I'm impressed with your strategy, Mew. But in order to beat Slaking, you're going to need strength as well," Norman says.
"I know," Mew says, sounding determined.
Slaking fires up again, pounding its chest harder.
"Looks like it's not even tired," Mew says.
"Grovyle. ("I can see that.") Groyle says
Norman then calls out, "Let's finish this! Slaking, full power Focus Punch, now!"
Slaking closes in, ready to strike.
"Yeah? Well, watch this!" Mew says, then calls out to Grovyle, "Grovyle, give it a full power Leaf Blade!"
Grovyle charges, ready to strike, as well. Both Pokémon seem to miss as they pass each other before stopping, but after a brief moment of silence, Grovyle winces, worrying everyone but Max. Slaking smiles, but then collapses, finally defeated
Kenny then announces, "Slaking is unable to battle, Grovyle wins! The winner of this match is Mew from Pallet Town!"
"Grovyle, we did it!" Mew happily cheers.
"Grovyle," (Sure did.) Grovyle says.
Pikachu and Eevee cheer, "Eevee!/Pikachu!" (They did it!)
"I can't believe it. Mew really beat dad," May.
"Yeah, in an amazing battle," Brock says.
"That was the coolest!" Tomo says.
"Awesome!" Jen says.
"Groyle and Mew were amazing out there!" Molly says.
Alright!" Zinnia cheers.
Norman then says to Slaking, "You put up a great fight, Slaking.
"Slaking Slaking," (Thank you, Norman.) Slaking says.
"Norman actually lost one. Guess you can't win them all, huh, Max?" Caroline says and turns to Max.
However, she notices that Max seemed a bit heartbroken.
Later that evening, outside Norman's home…
Norman says to Mew, "Mew, I hadn't enjoyed a battle that much in a long time. Thank you. You deserved the win today," And reveals Ash's prize, "and this Balance Badge is proof of that. Congratulations.
Mew looks to see the Balance Badge. It is shaped like two circles, counterbalancing each other or a barbell.
"Thank you, Norman. That was one of the best battles I ever had," Mew says.
But before May can take it, Max screams, "NO WAY!" He then snatches the badge and runs away.
"Max!" Mew calls out.
"Max, what's wrong? Where are you going?" May calls out.
"Honey!" Caroline calls out.
Norman has a feeling he knows what's wrong with Max.
They follow Max all the way to the greenhouse before he locks the door behind him.
"Max, why are you doing this?" May asks.
Caroline says, "Max, open the door, please."
Inside, Max is crying, and says, "Why, daddy?! Why'd you have to go and lose!? You say you had a great time battling, but you lost! I don't like it! It doesn't make any sense at all!"
"Remember, Max, dad's a gym leader and you know how gym battles work," May says.
Inside, Max cries out, "Dad lost! Why aren't YOU upset?!"
"Of course it wasn't easy watching dad lose that battle and all, but it doesn't matter. He fought as hard as he could and THAT's what's important," Max says.
Then Brock says, "As a former gym leader myself, I didn't hold battles just so I could keep winning all the time."
"THAT DOESN'T MEAN IT'S OKAY TO LOSE!" Max cries out.
But Norman says, "Yes, it is!"
Max gasps in shock.
Then Norman explains, "Losing is part of the duties of being a gym leader. If you battled hard and done your best, then defeat can be quite the wise teacher.
Max soon became silent.
Norman continues, "Think about how hard Mew and Grovyle battled together, while never once accepting defeat as an option. Max, they found strength they never knew they had. And THAT'S what battling is all about."
This has Max shocked, and begins to think. Then wipes the tears from his face.
Mew walks over and says, "Hey, Max, if you want to keep that badge, that's okay with me. Really. Because of that battle with your dad, I've gotten a whole lot better and stronger, too. And the experience is much more important than any badge."
Suddenly, Max unlocks and opens the door
With teary eyes, Max says, "Hey, dad? Someday when I'm ten, and when me and my Pokemon get stronger, would you let me battle you, too?"
"Of course. It would be an honor," Norman says.
Max nods in response.
Then turns to Mew, "Hey, I'm sorry, Mew," And hands her the badge, "You've earned this badge. Congratulations."
"That's okay," Mew says, taking the badge, "Thanks, Max."
Mew then hugs Max with a smile and Max hugs her back. Pikachu and Eevee join in to comfort him. At the end of one of the toughest battles yet, Mew has defeated Norman and earn her fifth badge, the Balance Badge. That brings her one step closer to the Hoenn League.
Mew's Files
Pokemon On Hand: Eevee (Female). Pikachu (Male). Ho-Oh (Female). Moltres (Male). Zapdos (Male). Articuno (Female). Lugia (Male). Latios (Male). Latias (Female). Manaphy (Female). Sprigatito (Female). Braixen (Female). Shiny Wynaut (Male). Foongus (Male). Lillipup (Male). Drowzee (Male). Grubbin (Male). Blipbug (Male). Sneasel (Female). Ralts (Male). Ralts (Female). Togetic A.K.A Faye (Female). Pikachu-Two (Male). Eevee - Two (Female). Drakloak (Male). Shiny Slowpoke (Female). Shiny Dragonair (Female). Plusle (Male). Minun (Female). Emolga (Female). Furret (Male). Pansear (Male). Makuhita (Male). Delcatty (Male). Shiny Ditto. Omanyte (Male). Kabuto (Male). Meditite (Female). White Florges (Female). Younger Mewtwo (Male). Castform (Male). Shaymin (Male). Jigglypuff (Female). Electabuzz (Male). Magmar (Male). Yamask (Male). Diglett (Male). Burmy (Male). Burmy (Female). Archen (Female). Elgyem (Male). Vivillon (Fancy Pattern), (Female). Pawmi (Male). Fomantis (Male). Pink Celebi (Female). Shiny Lapras (Female). Shiny Milotic (Female). Taillow (Male). Grovyle (Male). Honchkrow (Female). Wave A.K.A Alolain Raichu (Female). Corphish (Male). Mudkip (Female). Sableye (Male). Azumarill (Female). Beautifly (Female). Combusken (Female). Red Gyarados (Male). Carvanah (Male). Torkoal (Male). Gulpin (Female).
Master Ball: Mewtwo (Male)
Pokemon in Professor Oak's Ranch: Papa A.K.A Zeraora (Male). Dubwool (Male). Phanpy (Male). Jynx (Female). Heracross (Male). Shiny Hisuian Zoroark A.K.A. Zo. (Female). Small Dunsparce (Male). Cradily (Female). Tyranitar (Male). Venusaur (Female). Blastoise (Female). Lucario (Male). Porygon 2. Gengar (Male). Gastly (Male). Ursaring (Male). Jumpluff (Female). Tsareena (Female). Shiny Hisuian Lilligant (Female). Muk (Male). Bayleef (Female). Cyndaquil (Male). Totodile (Male). Shiny Sylveon (Male). Snorlax (Male). Ursaluna (Male). Alakazam (Male). Annihilape (Male). Chatot (Male). Glaceon (Female). Fraxure (Male). Aerodactyl (Male). Ledian (Female). Meowstic (Male) Lunatone. Sandslash (Male). Miltank (Female). Haunter (Male). Fearow (Male). Sudowoodo (Male). Pidgeot (Male). Liepard (Female). Spiritomb (Male). Red Sunflora (Female). Arcanine (Male). Magneton. Tauros (Male). Roserade (Female). Cinderace (Female). Mawile (Female). Slowbro (Male). Clefable (Female). Hitmontop (Male). Blue Gastrodon (Male). Victreebel (Female). Beedrill (Female). Gyarados (Male). Scizor (Male). Hitmonchan (Male). Hitmonlee (Male). Poliwrath (Male). Kingler (Male). Shiny Dewgong (Female). Cloyster (Male). Shiny Galarian Rapidash (Female). Ribombee (Female). Shiny Noctowl (Male). Paldean Tauros: Combat Breed (Male). Bulbasaur (Male).
Released: Butterfree (Male). Baby Lapras (Male).
Charicific Valley Natural Reserve: Charizard (Male).
Return to Squirtle Squad and Officer Jenny: Squirtle (Male).
Special Item: Rainbow Colored Feather A.K.A Rainbow Wing. Moltres Feather. Zapdos Feather. Articuno Feather. Lugia Feather A.K.A Silver Wing.
Items: 3 Heart Scales. 2 Soothe Bells. 1 Amulet Coin. Eeveelution Keychain. Marill Doll. Pokemon Grooming Kit. Pokemon Medical Kit. Pokeblock kit. Poffin Case. Super Rod. Key Stone (Bracelet Ring). Charizardite X (Metal-plated Collar). Silph Scope. Mysterious Dragon wing Teal Crystal. Mysterious pale blue snowflake crystal. Mysterious pink crystal with fairy wings. Mysterious white crystal with circles. Mysterious magenta pink crystal with strange symbols. Mysterious Brown Crystal with Eevee Tail. Pokeflute. Gengarite. Pidgeotite. Beedrillite. Aerodactylite. Gyaradosite. Blastoisinite. Venusaurite. Mewtwonite X, Mewtwonite Y. Alakazite. Scroll of Darkness. Scroll of Waters. Black Belt. Flaming Red Headband. Mystic Water Pendant. Silver Wing Badge. Latiosite. Latiasite. Sharpedonite.
Pokeballs: 1 Friend Ball. 1 Love Ball. 1 Fast Ball. Cherish Ball. Safari Ball.
Evolution Items: 2 Fire Stone, 3 Thunder Stone, 1 Leaf Stone, Dusk Stone, Dawn Stone, 4 Ice Stone.
Badges: Stone Badge. Knuckle Badge. Dynamo Badge. Heat Badge. Balance Badge.
Ribbons: Slateport Ribbon. Lumina Ribbon.
Tomo Files
Pokemon On Hand: Doduo (Female). Skwovet (Male). Meloetta (Female). Growlithe (Male). Kanto Ponyta (Male). Kadabra (Male). Cubone (Female). Tangela (Female). Staryu. Sealeo (Male). Buneary (Female). Larvesta (Female). Snom (Female). Voltorb. Galarian Slowpoke (Male). Riolu (Female). Zorua (Male). Shuppet (Male). Zweilous (Male). Munchlax (Male). Caterpie (Female). Bulbasar A.K.A Sage (Male). Wooper (Male). Barboach (Male). Shinx (Male). Blitzel (Female). Rufflet (Male). Bidoof (Male). Clobbopus (Male). Cranidos (Male). Charmander A.K.A Blaze (Female). Toxel (Male). Galarian Farfetch'd (Male). Fuecoco (Male). Squirtle A.K.S Aqua (Female). Shiny Houndour (Male.). Shiny Yanma (Female). Absol (Male). Chikorita A.K.A Leaf (Female). Cyndaquil A.K.A. Flint. Totodile A.K.A Dew (Female). Pidgeotto A.K.A Zephyr (Female). Mantyke (Male). Raikou (Male). Deoxys (Male). Tyrunt (Male). Murkrow (Male). Treecko A.K.A Willow (Female). Mudkip A.K.A River (Male). Gulpin (Male).
Pokemon in Professor Oak's Ranch: Delibird (Male). Stantler (Female). Smeargle (Male). Kecleon (Male). Xatu (Female). Galbantula (Male). Leafeon (Male). Shiny Umbreon (Male). Kangaskhan (Female). Farigiraf (Female). Skarmory (Male). Mandibuzz (Female). Wyrdeer (Male). Tyrantrum (Male). Sandslah-Two (Male). Large Dunsparce (Male).
Item: 1 Soothe Bell. 4 Ice Stones. 1 Leaf Stones. Banettite. Kangaskhanite. Lucarionite. Alakazite. Absolite.
Pokeballs: 1 Fast Ball. 1 Lure Ball.
May Files
Pokemon: Torchic (Male). Beautifly (Female). Aron (Female). Mudkip (Male). Skitty (Female). Swablu (Female).
Ribbons: Fallarbor Ribbon. Verdanturf Ribbon.
Max Files
Pokemon: Galarian Zigzagoon (Male). Shroomish (Male). Poochyena (Female). Nincada (Male). Surskit (Female). Gulpin (Male).
Item: Pokenav.
Molly Files
Pokemon: 'M' Unown. Teddiursa (Male). Yamper (Female). Pawmo (Male). Tarountula (Female). Aerodactyl (Male). Sobble-Two (Male.) Grookey-Two (Male). Greavard (Male). Espeon (Male). Murkrow (Male). Sableye (Male). Maschiff (Male). Hoppip (Female). Phanpy (Male). Cufant (Male). Shroodle (Male). Smoliv (Female). Litleo (Male). Gible (Male). Fidough (Female). Frigibax (Male). Vanillite (Female). Alolan Diglett (Male). Entei (Male). Spinda (Female). Kingdra (Male).
Molly's Mansion: Mamoswine (Male). Cinderace-Two (Female). Ariados (Male). Espeon (Female). Pachirisu (Male). Galarian Corsola (Female). Mantyke (Female). Octillery (Male).
Item: Sablite.
Jen Files
Pokemon on Hand: Amaura (Female). Hisuian Zorua (Female). Unova Zoroark (Female). Hisuian Growlithe (Male). Hisuian Voltorb. Clefairy (Female). Jigglypuff (Female). Hatenna (Female). Shiny Hoppip (Female.). Flaaffy (Female). Salandit (Female). Quaxly (Male). Clodsire (Female). Piloswine (Male). Rellor (Male). Impidimp (Male). Lechonk (Female). Bedew (Female). Tynamo (Male). Suicune (Male). Snover (Male). Mantyke (Male).
Pokemon on Jurassic Island: Quagsire (Male). Oranguru (Male). Tadbulb (Female). Drampa (Male). Wigglytuff-Two (Male). Braviary Hisui Form (Male). Overqwil (Female). Hisuian Lilligant (Female). Lucario (Male). Riolu (Male). Donphan (Male). Sunflora A.K.A Flora (Female). Aurorus (Female). Combee-Two (Female). Murkrow (Male).
Return to Madame Munchmoney: Grandbull (Female).
Items: Ampharosite.
Pokeball: 1 Fast Ball. 1 Lure Ball.
Brock Files
Pokemon: Rattata (Male). Hoppip (Female). Rockruff (Male). Grookey (Male). Slugma (Male). Voltorb. Machoke (Male). Pansage (Male). Seedot (Male). Lairon (Male). Charjabug (Male). Shuckle (Male). Shieldon (Male). Alolan Geodude (Male). Shiny Cherubi (Male). Shelgon (Male). Forretress (Male). Sandile (Male). Purrloin (Female). Venipede (Male). Sandygast (Female). Baltoy. Dwebble (Male). Hippopotas (Male). Zigzagoon (Male). Nidoran (Female). Klawf (Male). Vulpix-Two. Solrock. Pinsir (Male). Lombre (Male). Mudkip (Male). Carvanah (Male). Spinda (Female).
Returned to Suzie: Vulpix (Female).
Pokemon at Pewter Gym: Geodude (Male). Onix (Male). Crobat (Male). Rhydon (Female). Rhyhorn (Male). Nosepass (Female). Winter A.K.A Alolan Ninetales (Female). Summer A.K.A Kanto Ninetales (Female). Weavile (Female). Sneasler (Female). Vileplume-Two (Female).
Item: 2 Soothe Bell. 1 Ice Stones. 2 Fire Stones. 2 Water Stones. 2 Thunder Stones. Metal Coat. Aggronite. Sharpedonite.
Pokeball: 1 Heavy Ball. 1 Friend Ball. 1 Fast Ball.
Zinnia Files
Pokemon: Aster A.K.A Whismur (Female). Salamence (Male).
Item: Jade Orb