Hello, everyone. ThunderReborn from 2025. This chapter was originally edited by Darklord331. Finally, in April 2025, this chapter was edited again by my current beta reader, Waroyer123. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the story.
The following is a fan-based parody.
Please look at the Broken Dreams Stat Sheet for the current list of Ichigo's Pokémon. The bolded names are those featured in his chapter.
The following is a fan-based parody.
Bleach is owned by Tite Kubo, TV Tokyo, Viz Media, and Studio Pierrot.
Pokémon is owned by Nintendo, The Pokémon Company, and Game Freak.
Please support the official release.
"Hello." – Normal talking.
"Hello." – Ichigo's thoughts.
"Hello." – Zanpakutō speaking.
"Hello." – Zanpakutō thoughts.
Chapter 68
"This is your captain speaking. We've arrived at our final stop, Sandgem Town," the intercom broadcasted. Ichigo and Sabrina packed up their belongings. After a week of sailing since Mossdeep City, they had used the time to train their Pokémon. Some of Ichigo's Pokémon had mastered Elemental Aura, while others had developed a weaker form of Divine Domain known as Pseudo Domain.
The two stepped off the cruise ship and made their way into town, eventually finding the nearby Pokémon Center.
"I have the first few episodes of the anime loaded," Kyōka said.
"Thanks," Ichigo replied as they entered the Pokémon Center.
"Hello. What can I do for you?" Nurse Joy asked.
"We'd like to register for the Sinnoh League," Ichigo said.
"I see... Can I have your trainer IDs, please?" Nurse Joy requested. Sabrina handed over her Trainer card, and Ichigo presented his Pokédex. Nurse Joy took them and scanned them into her computer. "I see that both of you have an impressive list of accomplishments. Will you be participating under the Fresh Start Policy or the Legacy Policy?"
"I wish to participate under the Legacy Policy," Ichigo answered.
"So will I," Sabrina added.
"Very well," Nurse Joy said as she typed on her computer. "Everything seems to be in order." She returned Ichigo's Pokédex and Sabrina's Trainer card. "Good luck!" she wished them as they left the Pokémon Center.
They stepped out of Sandgem Town and walked past a sign reading "Route 102." As they continued along the path, they noticed a few bird Pokémon perched on a nearby branch.
"Hm... A Starly," Ichigo noted.
"Are you planning to capture one?" Sabrina asked.
"Hmmm… It might be useful to have a few low-level Pokémon on hand, just in case I get into a battle," Ichigo thought aloud as he pulled out a Poké Ball. One of the Starly noticed him and swooped down with silver-glowing wings. Ichigo stood his ground, waiting for the bird to reach him. At the last moment, he punched the incoming Starly, sending it crashing to the ground. He quickly threw a Poké Ball to capture it and scanned the Pokémon with his Pokédex.
"This Starly is female, 1 foot 8 inches, with the Keen Eye ability. It knows Tackle, Quick Attack, Wing Attack, Double Team, and Steel Wing," the Pokédex read.
"Nice catch," Sabrina remarked.
"Where did you find that?" a voice called out. Ichigo turned to see a trainer stepping out from the woods. The young man had mid-length purple hair with a large strand hanging over his face, and small dark eyes, and wore a dark blue jacket with gray pants.
"That's Paul," Ichigo thought.
"I just walked in and spotted a group of Starly. This one flew down and challenged me," Ichigo explained.
"Let's battle. If you win, you get one of my Pokémon," Paul proposed.
"No thanks. It wouldn't be fair. All of my other Pokémon are too strong for a beginner like you," Ichigo replied.
Paul narrowed his eyes, clearly offended.
"Does he think he's stronger than me just because he got lucky with a Starly that already knows a good move?" Paul thought to himself.
"How about we 'balance' this out?" Paul suggested.
"Two vs. one," Ichigo said, pulling out a Poké Ball. "I'll send out my first Pokémon and take the first move."
"Sure," Paul agreed. Ichigo sent out his Scizor.
"This is going to be easy," Paul thought as he sent out his Chimchar and Elekid. Ichigo scanned both Pokémon with his Pokédex before pocketing it.
"This guy is definitely arrogant. He didn't even recognize Chimchar and Elekid," Paul mused.
"Knowing Paul's personality, if Chimchar fails in a battle against a Pokémon that's four times weaker than it, he might just release it." Ichigo thought.
"The battle between Ichigo and..." Sabrina glanced at Paul.
"Paul." He introduced.
"Paul, will begin. Ichigo has the first move." Sabrina said.
"Sandstorm," Ichigo ordered. Scizor raised her arms, summoning a powerful sandstorm. She then dashed into it.
"Enter the sandstorm. Chimchar, use Ember, and Elekid, use Brick Break!" Paul commanded. Chimchar and Elekid shielded their faces from the sandstorm and entered the chaos, unaware that Scizor was silently approaching.
"Slash," Ichigo ordered. Scizor's claws glowed white as she attacked Elekid, sending it flying out of the sandstorm. Chimchar turned around, preparing to attack, but froze in shock as Scizor used the opening to strike, sending Chimchar flying out as well. The sandstorm began to dissipate, revealing a victorious Scizor.
"Chimchar, use Flame Wheel, and Elekid, use Brick Break!" Paul ordered quickly. Chimchar ignited itself in flames, while Elekid's arms glowed white. They charged toward Scizor.
"Dodge with Agility and use Swords Dance," Ichigo instructed. Scizor vanished in a blur, dodging both Chimchar's Flame Wheel and Elekid's Brick Break. She appeared behind them and crossed her glowing claws. They grew slightly thicker as she executed the next move.
"Slash," Ichigo commanded.
"Dodge!" Paul ordered desperately. Scizor lunged toward Chimchar, striking it in the chest and sending it flying at Paul's feet. Scizor turned toward Elekid.
"Protect!" Paul yelled. Elekid raised its arms, creating a protective barrier. Scizor pounded on the shield with her claws, trying to break through. Paul glared at the fallen Chimchar. "Get up!" he shouted.
Ichigo and Sabrina exchanged a concerned look at Paul's harsh attitude toward his fallen Pokémon.
Finally, Elekid's barrier shattered, and Scizor struck with her claws, knocking Elekid out cold.
"The battle is over. The winner is Scizor," Sabrina declared.
Ichigo walked over to Scizor. "Good job," he praised as he recalled her.
Paul recalled Elekid and muttered, "That was a horrible battle," glaring at Chimchar before pressing the release button on the Poké Ball multiple times. Chimchar glowed blue for a moment.
"Looks like he released his Chimchar," Sabrina commented telepathically.
"Get lost trash. I don't need weak Pokémon like you," Paul spat, walking away (1).
Chimchar looked down, saddened by the loss of its trainer. Ichigo approached the dejected Pokémon.
"Hey," Ichigo said gently. Chimchar looked at him, confused. "Are you really going to let his words get to you?"
"Char?" Chimchar responded, seemingly accepting Paul's harsh judgment.
"You remind me of one of my Pokémon," Ichigo said, taking out a Poké Ball. "Her previous trainer thought she was weak too and abandoned her in the rain. I found her, treated her injuries, and raised her properly. Now, she's one of my strongest Pokémon." Ichigo released Charizard.
Ichigo quickly explained what had happened to Chimchar. Charizard picked the smaller Pokémon up and began speaking with it, likely sharing Ichigo's story. Ichigo watched as Chimchar's spirit seemed to lift, hope returning to its eyes.
"So, Chimchar," Ichigo pulled out a Poké Ball, "Do you want to join my team, show Paul how wrong he was, and prove to his team how strong you truly are?"
Chimchar stood there for a few seconds before nodding its head, accepting Ichigo's offer. Ichigo caught Chimchar and scanned it with his Pokédex.
"This Chimchar is female, 2 feet tall, with the Blaze ability. Its current known moves are Scratch, Ember, and Flame Wheel."
Ichigo sent out his Pidgeot and Corviknight to mentor Starly as they continued to cross the rest of Route 202. He could see Starly's attacks were slightly stronger than before. They soon arrived in Jubilife City.
They checked in at the Pokémon Center. Ichigo handed Nurse Joy his Scizor, Chimchar, and Starly for her to take care of. They spent the night there before heading to Route 218. Ichigo had Blaziken and Pidgeot train Chimchar and Starly. They soon arrived at Canalave City.
"Time for our first gym badge," Ichigo said. Sabrina nodded. They checked in at the local Pokémon Center before entering the gym. Ichigo noticed a few trainers waiting in the lobby. Behind the receptionist counter stood a male miner.
"Good afternoon. How can I help you?" the receptionist asked.
"We're here to challenge the gym leader," Ichigo said.
"I see. May I have your Trainer IDs?" he asked.
Ichigo and Sabrina handed their Trainer IDs to the receptionist. He scanned them on his computer.
"Okay. Both of you will be next to fight Gym Leader Byron," the receptionist announced.
"Hey!" one of the trainers in the lobby shouted. "I was here first."
"Same here!"
"Why do they get to go ahead of us?"
"Unlike you basic trainers," the receptionist stood up, "These two are higher-ranking trainers and are challenging Gym Leader Byron with his full-power team, not his League-sanctioned team."
The door to the gym opened as a tall, very muscular man entered. He had burgundy hair and a shaved beard. He wore a tight white tank top, white gloves, gray shredded work pants, boots, a brown cape, and carried a shovel.
"Ace Trainer Sabrina? Cardinal Trainer Ichigo?" he asked.
"That's us," Ichigo replied, ignoring the shocked expressions from the three other trainers.
"Excellent. I'm Byron, the Gym Leader," he introduced. "Who wants to go first?"
"He can go first," Sabrina said. Ichigo shrugged as he followed Byron. "Follow me," Byron said, walking toward the battlefield. Ichigo followed behind him. The receptionist turned to Sabrina and the three other trainers.
"Follow me to the audience stand," he said. Everyone arrived at a rocky battlefield. Ichigo and Byron took their positions, with the referee in the middle.
"The match between Gym Leader Byron and Cardinal Trainer Ichigo will begin. It will be a four-on-four battle, and both trainers can substitute their Pokémon. Trainer Ichigo has the first move," the referee announced the rules. "On the count of three, both trainers will release their Pokémon." Ichigo and Byron nodded. "One." They pulled out their Poké Balls. "Two." They prepared to throw them. "Three!" Both trainers threw their Poké Balls.
Ichigo sent out his Magmortar. He pulled out his Pokédex and scanned the opposing Pokémon, revealing it to be an Excadrill, a Ground/Steel type.
"The battle between Magmortar and Excadrill will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Magmortar, use Lava Plume!" Ichigo ordered. Magmortar aimed her bazooka-like arms at Excadrill and fired a massive blast of fire and smoke.
"Excadrill, dive underground!" Byron ordered. Excadrill's arms combined to form a large drill. The drill spun rapidly as it dove into the ground. Lava from Magmortar's attack scattered across the battlefield, covering Byron's side.
Ichigo smiled. "Earthquake!"
"Get out!" Byron shouted. Magmortar stomped on the ground, sending powerful vibrations across the battlefield. Excadrill shot out of the ground.
"Flamethrower!" Ichigo commanded. Magmortar unleashed two large streams of fire from her arms. Excadrill cried out in pain as the flames hit, collapsing to the ground, unconscious.
"The battle is over. The winner is Magmortar," the referee declared.
"Smart move. Excadrill's only way to dodge an attack is by diving underground," Byron commented as he recalled his Excadrill. "But will that strategy work against this?" Byron sent out his second Pokémon. Ichigo scanned it, revealing it to be a Skarmory, a Steel/Flying-type.
"Thank you for your help," Ichigo said, recalling Magmortar. He then sent out Electivire. The referee glanced back at Byron, sensing his reaction.
"Dammit, his Electivire would be able to catch my Skarmory," Byron thought, recalling his Skarmory and sending out another Pokémon. It was a Magnezone. Ichigo recalled Electivire and sent out his Salazzle.
"What is that?" Byron thought, not recognizing the Pokémon.
"I'll stay in for now," Byron decided.
"The battle between Salazzle and Magnezone will begin. Byron has the first move."
"Magnezone, use Thunderbolt!" Byron ordered.
"Dodge it and use Sludge Bomb!" Ichigo commanded. Salazzle leaped to the side, firing balls of sludge. The sludge landed on Magnezone, interrupting its Thunderbolt.
"So that Salazzle is a Poison-type," Byron thought. "Worst Pokémon to bring against me."
"Magnezone, use Thunderbolt!" Byron ordered again. Magnezone began to charge up electricity but suddenly stopped as a purple spot formed on its face.
"ZONE!" Magnezone cried out in pain. Byron's eyes widened in realization.
"How did Magnezone get poisoned?" (2) Bryon thought.
"Flamethrower!" Ichigo ordered. Salazzle opened her mouth and blasted flames at Magnezone.
"Dodge it!" Byron shouted. Magnezone barely managed to dodge the Flamethrower, struggling against the poison.
"Keep using Flamethrower," Ichigo commanded. Salazzle continued to attack. Eventually, Magnezone's stamina ran out, and it failed to dodge in time. It was engulfed by Salazzle's Flamethrower and crashed into the ground.
"The battle is over. The winner is Salazzle," the referee declared. Byron recalled his Magnezone and sent out his Skarmory. Ichigo switched his Salazzle for Electivire.
"The battle between Electivire and Skarmory will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Plasma Fist!" Blue lightning wrapped around Electivire as she leaped toward Skarmory.
"Get in the air!" Byron ordered. Skarmory flew into the air, dodging Electivire's attack. Ichigo smirked.
"Magnet Rise!" Ichigo commanded. Two yellow disks of electricity formed around Electivire's feet as she levitated off the ground and soared toward Skarmory.
"Skarmory try to tire it out!" Byron ordered. Skarmory flapped its wings, staying away from Electivire. Electivire refused to give up, continuing her pursuit. Ichigo glanced at her.
"Her stamina is running low," Ichigo noticed.
"Electivire use Wild Charge!" Ichigo ordered. Electivire used Magnet Rise to create a platform to leap. She was surrounded by electricity, she soared into the air, using the momentum to catch Skarmory off guard. Skarmory dove down, weighed down by the impact.
"Plasma Fist!" Ichigo commanded.
"VIRE!" Electivire cried as she wrapped her left arm around Skarmory's neck and began punching it in the chest with her right fist.
"Break free!" Byron shouted.
Skarmory shook its entire body, attempting to break free. At the last second, Electivire spun Skarmory around, flipping it so its back was facing the ground. Electivire released Skarmory and used the bird-like Pokémon as a springboard to propel herself upwards. The added force caused Skarmory to crash to the ground, while Electivire remained unscathed.
"The battle is over. The winner is Electivire," the referee declared.
Byron recalled Skarmory and sent out his final Pokémon. Ichigo scanned it with his Pokédex, revealing it to be a Bastiodon.
"Ichigo, I assume you have one?" Byron asked as he pulled out a necklace with a Mega Stone embedded in it.
"I do," Ichigo replied, recalling Electivire and sending out his Swampert. Ichigo quickly pulled out a bracelet with a Mega Stone attached.
"Mega... SHINKA (3)!" Both Bastiodon and Swampert were engulfed in a sphere of energy. As the energy dissipated, Bastiodon and Swampert let out powerful roars.
Bastiodon's body grew slightly larger and bulkier. Its face shield extended and took on the shape of a triceratops (4). Swampert's upper body and arms became more muscular compared to his squat lower body. The orange padding on his thighs disappeared, but new orange padding appeared on his wrists, shoulders, and darker red gills, which were now larger and bulbous, with filaments extending past his mouth. The black fins on his head became thicker, extending down past his shoulders. Ichigo quickly scanned Mega Bastiodon with his Pokédex.
"Mega Bastiodon is a Rock/Steel-type Pokémon, owned by Gym Leader Byron. No other information is available."
"Hm… It's still weak to Fighting, Ground, and Water," Ichigo thought.
"The battle between Mega Bastiodon and Mega Swampert will begin. Byron has the first move," the referee announced.
"Bastiodon, use Iron Defense!" Mega Bastiodon was coated in a silver aura.
"Charge in with Liquidation!" Ichigo commanded. Mega Swampert became engulfed in water as he charged toward Mega Bastiodon.
"Use Iron Head!" Byron ordered. Mega Bastiodon's head glowed metallic silver as it collided with Mega Swampert's head. The impact of both attacks sent them flying back, but both recovered quickly.
"Are you okay?" Ichigo asked.
Swampert gave a thumbs up.
"Go in with Hammer Arm!" Ichigo commanded. Mega Swampert's forearms glowed white as he charged at Mega Bastiodon.
"Use Stone Edge!" Byron called. Mega Bastiodon glowed faintly orange as a ring of light appeared above it. The light turned into sharp stones that whirled toward Mega Swampert.
"Use Liquidation!" Ichigo shouted. Mega Swampert engulfed himself in water once again and plowed through the incoming stones, destroying them.
"Don't stop!" Byron yelled. Mega Bastiodon continued to launch more rocks at Mega Swampert, but each one was destroyed by Liquidation. Finally, Mega Swampert collided with Mega Bastiodon, stunning it.
"End it," Ichigo commanded.
Mega Swampert raised his forearms, glowing white, and began to punch Mega Bastiodon.
"Endure it!" Byron shouted.
Mega Bastiodon stood firm against Mega Swampert's blows, taking a few hits before Mega Swampert's fists finally knocked it unconscious. Surprisingly, Mega Bastiodon remained standing even after being knocked out.
"The battle is over. The winner is Mega Swampert. The winner of the match is Cardinal Ichigo!" The referee announced.
Ichigo and Byron recalled their Pokémon. "The second match will begin in half an hour." Sabrina nodded in acknowledgment as Ichigo and Byron made their way to the Pokémon Center.
After a quick break, Ichigo and Sabrina switched places. Sabrina challenged Byron with her Slowking, Exeggutor, Golduck, and Mega Meditite against Byron's Aegislash, Bisharp, Escavalier, and Mega Aggron. Unlike Ichigo, Sabrina had a harder time, as Byron had the type advantage. In the end, Sabrina triumphed with her Mega Meditite as the last Pokémon standing.
Ichigo and Sabrina met Byron at the center of the battlefield.
"Congratulations on winning," Byron said.
The referee approached them with a case. Byron opened it, presenting Ichigo and Sabrina with the Mine Badge. It was a golden badge featuring three brown metals shaped like stones, with the remaining gold resembling pickaxes.
"This looks slightly different from the regular Mine Badge," Ichigo thought.
Byron noticed Ichigo's gaze. "Is this your first time doing the Legacy Challenge?" he asked.
"It is," Ichigo replied.
"When you defeat the Gym Leader in the Legacy Challenge, you receive a different gym badge compared to trainers participating under the Fresh Start Policy. These golden badges are known as Legacy Gym Badges. Collect all eight to secure a spot in the quarter-finals."
"I see…" Ichigo said.
Ichigo and Sabrina accepted their Legacy Gym Badges and left the gym. They returned to the Pokémon Center to recover Sabrina's Pokémon, spending the night before leaving Canalave City.
Scene Change: Oreburgh City
Ichigo and Sabrina had traveled through Route 218, Jubilife City, Route 202, Route 203, and a small cave before arriving at Oreburgh City. During the journey, Ichigo continued to train Starly and Chimchar, both of whom were close to evolving. Meanwhile, Sabrina's Ralts had evolved into a Kirlia.
"Time for our second gym badge," Ichigo said. Sabrina nodded, and they checked in at the local Pokémon Center before heading to the gym. Ichigo noticed a male miner standing behind the receptionist counter.
"Good afternoon. How can I help you?" the receptionist asked.
"We are here to challenge the Gym Leader," Ichigo replied.
"I see. May I have your Trainer IDs?" he asked.
Ichigo and Sabrina handed their Trainer IDs to the receptionist, who scanned them.
"Okay. He should be out in a bit," the receptionist said.
"Thank you," Ichigo and Sabrina said as they took their IDs back and sat down. After a short wait, a young man with red hair and glasses entered the lobby. He wore a mining outfit similar to the receptionist's.
"Ace Trainer Sabrina? Cardinal Trainer Ichigo?" he asked.
"That's us," Ichigo replied, ignoring the surprised looks from the three trainers.
"Excellent. I'm Roark, the Gym Leader." He introduced himself. "Who wants to go first?"
"He can go first," Sabrina said.
Ichigo shrugged and followed Roark, who led them to the battlefield.
"The match between Gym Leader Roark and Cardinal Trainer Ichigo will begin. The match will be a three on three. Both trainers can substitute their Pokémon. Trainer Ichigo has the first attack," the referee announced the rules. "Trainers, on the count of three, both of you will release your Pokémon." Ichigo and Roark nodded. "One." They pulled out their Poké Balls. "Two." They prepared to throw their respective Poké Balls. "Three!" Ichigo and Roark threw their Poké Balls. Ichigo sent out his Blastoise while Roark sent out his Pokémon. The Pokédex quickly identified it as Gigalith, a Rock-type from Unova. Suddenly, a sandstorm surrounded the battlefield.
"Blastoise, use Rain Dance," Ichigo commanded.
"Gigalith, use Stealth Rocks," Roark ordered. Blastoise's body began to shine brightly as clouds appeared in the sky, making it rain. Multiple glowing rocks rose in front of Gigalith. The rocks soared toward Ichigo's side of the battlefield and implanted themselves into the ground.
"Smart counter, but that's not going to work with me," Ichigo thought.
"Blastoise, use Rapid Spin and Hydro Pump!" Ichigo commanded.
"Gigalith, use Protect!" Roark ordered. A green barrier appeared around Gigalith. Blastoise tucked all her limbs into her shell and began to spin, spraying water and creating a tornadic waterspout. It moved through the battlefield, destroying Gigalith's Stealth Rocks and charging toward the protected Gigalith. The waterspout slammed into Gigalith's Protect.
"Stand strong, Gigalith!" Roark yelled. The tornadic waterspout began to slow down.
"Thank Arceus," Roark thought as he looked at Gigalith. "Gigalith couldn't hold on much longer."
"Hydro Pump, reverse!" Ichigo ordered. Blastoise stopped spinning, and her large cannons popped out, firing two powerful jets of water. The attack sent Blastoise back to Ichigo's side while destroying Gigalith's Protect.
"Gigalith!" Roark yelled as Gigalith crashed into the wall behind him. Blastoise stopped her attack and resumed a fighting stance.
"Gigalith is unable to battle. The winner is Ichigo," the referee declared.
"Good job, Gigalith," Roark said as he recalled his Pokémon. "Go, Probopass."
"Smart. Probopass knows some Electric-type attacks, making it a good counter to Blastoise," Ichigo thought as he recalled Blastoise and sent out Metagross.
"Shit," Roark thought. The referee glanced at Roark. Roark recalled his Probopass and sent out his Rampardos.
"Ichigo, I assume you have one?" Roark asked as he pulled out a necklace with a Mega Stone embedded in it.
"I do," Ichigo said as he put on a bracelet with a Mega Stone.
"Mega…SHINKA!" Ichigo and Roark shouted. Rampardos and Metagross were engulfed in a ball of energy. Both Pokémon let out loud roars as the ball of energy dissipated. Rampardos grew larger, with the horns on its body becoming even larger and gaining a slight metallic shine. The crest on its back grew longer (5).
Metagross levitated in the air, and its four legs transformed into arm-like claws, which were longer, with the X on its face turning cobalt blue. Four smaller legs moved backward. Ichigo scanned Mega Rampardos.
"Mega Rampardos is a Rock/Steel type. This Pokémon is owned by Gym Leader Roark. No other information is available."
"Hm… It's still weak to Fighting, Ground, and Water," Ichigo thought.
"The battle between Mega Rampardos and Mega Metagross will begin. Roark has the first move," the referee announced.
"Rampardos, use Head Smash!" Mega Rampardos was covered in a bluish-white aura and charged headfirst at its opponent.
"Psychic!" Ichigo ordered. Mega Metagross's eyes glowed as it tried to stop Mega Rampardos. To Ichigo's shock, Mega Rampardos resisted the effects of Psychic.
"Swerve to the side!" Ichigo ordered. Mega Metagross took a step to the side, causing Rampardos to miss its attack.
"Hammer Arm!" All four of Mega Metagross's arms glowed white before attacking Rampardos's exposed back. The unexpected attack knocked Mega Rampardos to the ground.
"Get out of there!" Roark yelled.
"Don't let it recover," Ichigo ordered. Mega Metagross moved on top of Mega Rampardos and continued to use Hammer Arm.
"Enough," Ichigo said after a minute of attacks. Mega Metagross stepped away from Mega Rampardos.
"Mega Rampardos is unable to battle. The winner is Mega Metagross," the referee declared.
"Good job, Rampardos," Roark said as he recalled his Pokémon. "You're my last chance, Probopass." He sent out Probopass. Ichigo glanced at Mega Metagross.
"Are you good to continue?" Ichigo asked. Mega Metagross nodded.
"The battle between Probopass and Mega Metagross will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Hammer Arm!" Ichigo ordered. Mega Metagross's arms glowed white as they charged toward Probopass.
"Dodge with Magnet Rise!" Roark ordered. A disk of yellow electricity appeared below Probopass as it rose in the air, avoiding Mega Metagross. "Now, Heavy Slam!" The yellow disk of electricity disappeared, and Probopass's body became surrounded by a silver aura.
"Dodge it!" Ichigo ordered. Mega Metagross floated back, avoiding the attack. The entire stadium shook from the impact. When the dust settled, Probopass was stuck in the ground.
"Hammer ARM!" Ichigo ordered. Mega Metagross lunged toward Probopass before it could recover.
"Power Gem!" Roark ordered. Small objects around Probopass turned toward the incoming Mega Metagross and began to fire white beams of energy. Mega Metagross let out a loud roar as it ignored the Power Gem and continued to attack with Hammer Arm as soon as Probopass came within range. The small objects around Probopass stopped firing Power Gem and fell to the ground.
"Enough," Ichigo said. Mega Metagross floated away from Probopass.
"Probopass is unable to continue. The winner is Mega Metagross. The winner of the match is Cardinal Ichigo!" the referee announced. Ichigo and Roark recalled their Pokémon. The referee turned to Sabrina.
"We will commence your match in an hour," the referee said. Sabrina nodded as she stood up. Ichigo and Roark went to the Pokémon Center, where Nurse Joy looked over their Pokémon. She informed them that Ichigo's Pokémon would be ready in a few minutes, while Roark's would require a few hours. Ichigo apologized for the aggressive nature of the battle, but Roark told him that the apology wasn't necessary. Ichigo took his spot in the gym as it was Sabrina's turn to challenge Roark. She used her Slowking, Jynx, and Mega Meditite against Roark's Mega Tyranitar, Lycanroc Dusk Form, and Armaldo. Sabrina's battle against Roark was much harder compared to Ichigo's, with his entire team immune to Sandstorm, which put Sabrina on a timer. Roark's Mega Tyranitar and Lycanroc Dusk Form knew Crunch, while his Armaldo knew X-Scissor. It was a close call before Sabrina finally emerged victorious. Ichigo and Sabrina stood at the center of the battlefield.
"Congratulations on winning," Roark said. The referee walked toward them with a case. Roark opened the case and presented Ichigo and Sabrina with the Coal Badge. It was a golden badge with brown metal, shaped like a boulder, with a Poké Ball on top. Ichigo and Sabrina accepted their Legacy Gym Badges and left the gym. They returned to the Pokémon Center for Sabrina's Pokémon to recover and spent the night there.
Scene Change: Eterna City
Ichigo and Sabrina crossed through Route 207 and Route 206 before arriving in Eterna City. During the journey, Starly evolved into Staravia, and Chimchar evolved into Monferno, who also learned Mach Punch. It was late in the evening when they arrived, and they spent the night at the Pokémon Center before challenging the gym leader. When they entered the gym, they were greeted by Gardenia.
"Good morning, challengers!" she said.
"Good morning," Ichigo replied. "We're here for a gym battle."
"Good. The best way to start the day is with a gym battle!" Gardenia said. "Let me help you two sign in." She walked over to the empty receptionist's desk. Ichigo and Sabrina handed her their Trainer IDs. "Excellent," she said as she scanned their IDs. "Roark and Byron told me about you two."
"They did?" Ichigo asked.
"It's very rare for people to take on the Legacy Challenge," Gardenia admitted. "Most trainers stick to their region's conference until their badges expire and then find another job."
"I see…" Ichigo replied. She handed their IDs back to them.
"Are both of you okay with a four-on-four battle?" she asked.
"Sure," Ichigo replied.
"I'm fine," Sabrina answered.
"She speaks!" Gardenia joked. "Anyways, who wants to go first?"
"He can," Sabrina said, gesturing toward Ichigo. Ichigo shrugged, and Gardenia escorted them to the battlefield. They soon arrived at a fork.
"Walk upstairs to the stands," Gardenia said. Sabrina nodded and began walking up the stairs.
"Wait," Ichigo said as he sent out his Staravia and Monferno. "Go with Sabrina and watch my battle," he told them. Staravia and Monferno nodded and followed Sabrina up the stairs.
Ichigo and Gardenia took their places on the battlefield. A female referee entered the area.
"This match is between Gym Leader Gardenia and Cardinal Ichigo. This will be a four-on-four battle with substitutions. The first round will begin on the count of three," the referee said. Ichigo and Gardenia each pulled out a Poké Ball. "One… Two… Three!" They threw their Poké Balls. Out came a Ludicolo and a Corviknight.
"The first battle is between Ludicolo and Corviknight," the referee announced. Gardenia recalled her Ludicolo and sent out her Alolan Exeggutor. Its large neck swayed gently from side to side.
"I'll stick with Corviknight," Ichigo said. The referee nodded.
"The match between Exeggutor and Corviknight will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Corviknight, use Brave Bird!" Ichigo commanded. Corviknight's body became surrounded by a blue aura as it charged toward Alolan Exeggutor.
"Flamethrower!" Gardenia ordered. Alolan Exeggutor opened its mouth and fired a stream of flames at Corviknight.
"Dodge it!" Ichigo said. Corviknight swerved to the side, narrowly avoiding the flames.
"Don't let it escape," Gardenia shouted. Alolan Exeggutor twisted its neck and adjusted its footing, continuing its pursuit.
"Wait a minute…" Ichigo thought, noticing Exeggutor's movement.
"Corviknight, fly faster!" Ichigo called. Corviknight increased its speed.
"Is he trying to wait out my Exeggutor?" Gardenia thought.
"Don't lose that bird!" Gardenia yelled. Ichigo cracked a smile as Exeggutor suddenly stopped its attack, looking disoriented. Gardenia's eyes widened in realization.
"He was able to confuse Exeggutor," Gardenia muttered.
"End it with Brave Bird!" Ichigo commanded. Corviknight, now surrounded by blue energy, slammed into Alolan Exeggutor's head. The impact knocked the Alolan Exeggutor off its feet, sending it crashing to the ground. The dust settled, revealing that Exeggutor was unconscious.
"The battle is over. The winner is Corviknight," the referee announced.
"I didn't think you would use Exeggutor's height and reflexes against me," Gardenia commented as she recalled her Alolan Exeggutor and sent out her Ludicolo.
"Thanks for your effort," Ichigo said, recalling his Corviknight.
"Hm? He still has the type advantage against Ludicolo with his Corviknight," Gardenia thought. Ichigo sent out his Pidgeot.
"I will remain with Ludicolo," Gardenia said.
"The battle between Ludicolo and Pidgeot will begin. Gardenia has the first move."
"Ludicolo use Rain Dance!" Gardenia said. Ludicolo began to dance, summoning rain.
"Pidgeot, use Brave Bird!" Ichigo ordered. Dark rain clouds gathered as Pidgeot was surrounded by a blue aura. Pidgeot dove toward Ludicolo, who was still dancing. The rain began to pour heavily. Gardenia smiled.
"Ice Beam!" she ordered. Ludicolo opened its mouth, firing light blue beams toward Pidgeot.
"Dodge it!" Ichigo shouted. Pidgeot swerved to the side, but one of its wings was hit and frozen. The added weight caused Pidgeot to crash into the ground, but the impact also broke the frozen wing free.
"Ice Beam again! Don't let it escape," Gardenia commanded. Ludicolo shot another Ice Beam from its mouth.
"Get in the air!" Ichigo shouted. Pidgeot quickly flew up, narrowly avoiding the Ice Beam.
"This is going to be risky. Pidgeot hasn't mastered this technique yet," Ichigo thought, watching Pidgeot dodge the attack.
"Pidgeot Elemental Aura!" Ichigo ordered.
"Pidgeot!" he shouted. Gardenia and Ludicolo paused to see what was happening. Pidgeot's entire body became engulfed in a metallic silver aura.
"Brave Bird!" Ichigo ordered. The metallic Pidgeot dove toward Ludicolo.
"Ice Beam!" Gardenia ordered. Ludicolo opened its mouth again, firing another Ice Beam. To both Gardenia's and Ludicolo's shock, the Ice Beam was shattered upon contact with Pidgeot. The disruption allowed Pidgeot to slam directly into Ludicolo's chest, knocking it onto its back.
"Use Drill Peck! Don't let Ludicolo recover!" Ichigo commanded.
"Ludicolo get up!" Gardenia shouted. Pidgeot's peak glowed as it began to rapidly strike Ludicolo all over, preventing it from reacting. After a moment, Ludicolo collapsed, unconscious. Pidgeot deactivated Elemental Aura and fell to his knees, exhausted.
"The battle is over. The winner is Pidgeot." Ichigo and Gardenia recalled their respective Pokémon. The referee glanced at Ichigo.
"Cardinal Ichigo, due to your substitution, you must send out your Pokémon first." Ichigo nodded and sent out his Milotic.
"Strange. Why did he send out a Milotic?" Gardenia thought. She sent out her Breloom.
"The battle between Milotic and Breloom will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Milotic use Ice Beam!" Ichigo shouted.
"Breloom, dodge it and use Seed Bomb!" Gardenia ordered. Breloom leaped into the air, avoiding the Ice Beam. It opened its mouth and fired multiple glowing green seeds toward Milotic. Milotic stood her ground and took the hit. Breloom landed and stared at Milotic.
"Why didn't he order Milotic to dodge?" Gardenia thought. The dust settled to reveal Milotic surrounded by a green aura.
"Ice Beam," Ichigo ordered. Milotic opened her mouth and fired another Ice Beam, much larger than before.
"Dodge it!" Gardenia shouted. Breloom jumped up, narrowly dodging the attack. Milotic raised her head, causing the Ice Beam to follow Breloom. The Ice Beam struck Breloom, freezing it solid. The frozen Breloom fell to the ground. Unfortunately for Breloom, the impact did not break the ice.
"Breloom!" Gardenia shouted.
"Gym Leader Gardenia has 10 seconds before Breloom is declared unable to battle," the referee announced, starting a ten-second timer.
"Breloom, break free!" Gardenia shouted. To her dismay, Breloom remained trapped in the ice.
"The time is up," the referee declared. "The winner is Milotic," Gardenia recalled her frozen Breloom and sent out her Roserade.
"Roark mentioned that you're able to Mega Evolve," Gardenia said, revealing a bracelet with a Mega Stone.
"I do," Ichigo replied, recalling his Milotic and sending out his Charizard. He revealed his necklace.
"MEGA SHINKA!" they both shouted as Charizard and Roserade were engulfed in energy. The light faded to reveal Mega Charizard and Mega Roserade.
Mega Roserade's white hair now resembled a top hat with two flower bulbs—one red and the other blue. The green cape was now a darker shade with a sash across its front. The red and blue bouquets had blossomed into roses. A darker, green mask covered its eyes, which were now white-lidded (7).
Mega Charizard's body and legs are more physically fit, though its arms remain thin. Her underside and soles are now sky-blue. Two spikes with blue tips curve upward from the front and back of each shoulder, while the tips of her horns sharpen, turn blue, and curve slightly upward. Her brows and claws are larger, and her eyes are now red. She has two small, fin-like spikes under each horn and two more down its lower neck. The finger disappears from the wing membrane, and the lower edges are divided into large, rounded points. The third joint of each wing-arm is adorned with a claw-like spike. The flames on her tail turned blue.
"The battle between Mega Roserade and Mega Charizard will begin. Gym Leader Gardenia has the first move," the referee declared.
"Roserade use Sludge Bomb!" Gardenia commanded. Mega Roserade pointed its bouquets at Mega Charizard and fired balls of sludge. Mega Charizard opened her mouth and released a stream of blue fire, incinerating the Sludge Bombs.
"Flamethrower," Ichigo ordered. Mega Charizard took a deep breath and unleashed a powerful stream of blue fire toward Mega Roserade.
"Dodge it!" Gardenia shouted. Mega Roserade jumped away, narrowly avoiding the attack. Mega Charizard continued to unleash her blue flames, trying to hit Mega Roserade. Mega Roserade kept jumping around, dodging the blue flames. After a moment, Mega Charizard stopped, leaving the surrounding grass burned away.
"Hyper Beam!" Gardenia shouted. Mega Roserade aimed her right bouquet at Mega Charizard and fired a large orange beam.
"Blast Burn!" Ichigo commanded. Mega Charizard's body became engulfed in blue flames. She opened her mouth and released a large blast of blue fire. The two attacks collided, each trying to overpower the other. Charizard's Blast Burn overpowered Mega Roserade's Hyper Beam, hitting Roserade and engulfing her in blue flames. Gardenia quickly recalled her Pokémon.
"I forfeit," Gardenia declared.
"The battle is over. The winner is Mega Charizard. The winner of the match is Cardinal Ichigo!" the referee announced. Mega Charizard let out a loud, powerful roar, instantly extinguishing the remaining flames. Ichigo recalled his Pokémon.
"That was an excellent battle," Gardenia said.
"Thank you," Ichigo replied. He and Gardenia went to the Pokémon Center to drop off their Pokémon. Ichigo took Sabrina's place in the stands while she went down. Ichigo noticed that both Starly and Chimchar were amazed by the performances of Blaziken, Pidgeot, and Corviknight.
"Don't worry, we'll make sure both of you train hard," Ichigo reassured them as he glanced over to Sabrina's match with Gardenia. Sabrina used her Mega Medicham, both Male and Female Alakazam, and Espeon. Gardenia used Tangrowth, Shiftry, Trevenant, and Mega Torterra (8). After a hard-fought battle, Ichigo and Sabrina received their Legacy Forest Badge, which depicted three trees of a forest with their trunks removed, set on a gold medal back.
Ichigo, Sabrina, and Gardenia entered the Pokémon Center. Sabrina and Gardenia handed their Pokémon to Nurse Joy while Ichigo received his fully healed Pokémon.
"HELP!" someone shouted. Ichigo, Sabrina, and Gardenia ran outside to find five people injured.
"What happened?" Gardenia asked.
"Some men in black and silver clothes tackled us and stole our Pokémon," one of the injured people said.
"Where did they go?" Ichigo asked.
"This is likely Team Galactic," Ichigo thought.
"They ran into the nearby forest (9)," someone else said.
"Gardenia get the police to meet us there," Ichigo ordered.
"Okay," Gardenia said, running toward the local police. Ichigo and Sabrina dashed into the forest. They quickly found the secret hideout. Ichigo sent out his Blaziken.
"Blaziken, see if you can knock down that door," Ichigo instructed. Fire surrounded Blaziken's fists as she began punching the door. After ten punches, the door remained unyielding. "Let me try," Ichigo said. Blaziken nodded and stepped aside.
"Is he really trying to punch the door open?" Sabrina thought.
Ichigo pulled his right fist back and threw a punch at the door. The first punch put a sizable dent in it. "H-How did he do that?"
"Looks like a regular punch isn't going to do it," Ichigo thought as he pulled his fist back and struck again. This time, the door was sent flying down the hallway. Ichigo glanced at Sabrina.
"Make sure no one tries to teleport out," Ichigo ordered.
"Okay," she replied, sending out her Slowking, Golduck, and Jynx. Ichigo and Blaziken charged inside, encountering several Team Galactic Grunts. Before they could react, Ichigo and Blaziken knocked them out with swift punches. This continued until they met Saturn, one of Team Galactic's Commanders. Ichigo knocked Saturn out before he could react. Ichigo then found a storage room filled with caged Pokémon. He walked over to a nearby computer and tried to log in.
"Handprint required," the screen displayed.
Ichigo grabbed the unconscious commander and placed his hand on the scanner.
"Handprint accepted. Welcome, Commander Saturn," the screen displayed. Ichigo freed all the Pokémon in the cages.
"Blaziken, can you help lead them out?" Ichigo asked. Blaziken nodded her head.
"BLAZ! BLAZ! BLAZ!" she shouted at the other Pokémon. All the Pokémon left their cages and followed Blaziken out. Ichigo noticed two Pokémon still standing there.
The first one was a small, round Pokémon with a spherical orange body and a long, spike-shaped antenna atop its head, along with a small, round orb on its underside. It had two ovular blue eyes and a small, grinning mouth. It was enveloped in a glowing aura of cyan-blue plasma, with lightning bolt-shaped appendages on either side of its lower body.
The second one resembled an oversized, pale red scorpion, but with its claws and tail swapped. Its miniature jaws, claws, and tail claws were white. The arms were attached directly to its head, close to its teal eyes. A pointed marking joined its eyes. The head, arms, two tail segments, and all four legs were light blue, while the body, tail end, and the other two tail segments were a darker shade of red.
"Can I help you?" Ichigo asked. The small orange Pokémon dived into the computer. The screen changed to match the orange color and eyes of the Pokémon.
"We wish to join you," the computer displayed.
"Why?" Ichigo asked.
"We saw you break into the hideout. You and your Pokémon are powerful. We wish to become stronger," the screen replied. The other Pokémon nodded in agreement. "The other Pokémon is Skorupi. She is a Poison Bug-type. As for me, I am Rotom, an Electric Ghost-type. I can possess electrical equipment. Team Galactic injected me with pre-programmed nanobots that transform into various electrical equipment, giving me greater versatility and allowing them better control over me."
"Since you can possess electrical equipment, couldn't you override Team Galactic's control?" Ichigo asked.
"I can," Rotom admitted. "But doing so without any chance of escaping would be pointless."
"I accept," Ichigo said.
"Good. Please plug in your Pokédex and the Poké Ball you intend to use to capture me," Rotom requested, as two wires shot out from the computer. Ichigo took his Pokédex and a Poké Ball, connecting them.
"I am downloading all the information Team Galactic had on me, as well as preprogramming a censored version of my data on the Poké Ball in case it gets scanned by someone else," Rotom explained as the download finished. Ichigo unplugged his Pokédex and the Poké Ball. Rotom began to delete any remaining records of itself and Skorupi's existence.
"Do you want me to call you Rotom, or do you have a name you'd like to go by?" Ichigo asked.
"I want to get revenge for what Team Galactic did to me…" Rotom thought.
"Malware," Rotom decided.
"Very well, Malware," Ichigo said, as the newly christened Malware exited Team Galactic's computer. Ichigo caught both Malware and Skorupi before walking out of the hideout. Gardenia arrived with the police.
"All of them are unconscious," Ichigo said as the police rushed inside the hideout.
"Thank you," Gardenia said as the officers began dragging out unconscious members of Team Galactic. Ichigo and Sabrina returned to the Pokémon Center. Sabrina went out to do some additional planning before they left Eterna City.
"Makes sense, since Fantina specializes in Ghost-types," Ichigo thought as he scanned Malware and Skorupi.
"This Rotom, nicknamed Malware, is a genderless Electric Ghost-type with the Levitate ability. The current known moves are Discharge, Thunderbolt, Shadow Ball, Thunder Wave, Hex, Dark Pulse, Will-O-Wisp, and Shadow Sneak. This Rotom has additional forms," the Pokédex read. Ichigo clicked on the "Additional Forms" option.
"Rotom is supposed to have only five additional forms, but Malware has a total of nine," Ichigo thought as he scanned Skorupi.
"Skorupi is a female Poison Bug-type with the Battle Armor ability. The current known moves are Hone Claws, Fell Stinger, Poison Fang, Bite, Toxic Spikes, and Slash. Note, this Pokémon has an unusual coloration," the Pokédex read. It was dinner time when Sabrina returned. They ate dinner before going to sleep, preparing for the next few days of travel.
Scene Change: Hearthome City
It took Ichigo and Sabrina four days to reach Hearthome City. While traveling along Route 206, a mother was looking for someone to help find her daughter, who had accidentally wandered into a nearby cave. Ichigo and Sabrina volunteered to find the girl. During their time in the cave, Sabrina found a Bronzor, and Ichigo discovered an Aron. Eventually, they found the lost girl and took her back to her mother. The reunion was emotional, with the mother and daughter crying tears of joy. The mother turned out to be a breeder from the Galar region, and she handed Ichigo and Sabrina each an egg.
Ichigo and Sabrina continued through Route 206, Route 207, and a small portion of Mt. Coronet. Afterward, they arrived at Hearthome City, checked into the local Pokémon Center, and made their way to the gym. They entered the lobby of the gym.
"Good morning," the receptionist greeted them. "Are you both here to challenge Lady Fantina?"
"We are," Ichigo replied, taking out his Pokédex. Sabrina quietly followed and pulled out her Trainer ID. The receptionist checked them in and returned their Trainer IDs.
"Follow me," she said. Ichigo was escorted to the battlefield while Sabrina was directed to the audience stand. Ichigo arrived to find Fantina and the referee waiting.
"Good morning, Cardinal," Fantina greeted.
"Good morning," Ichigo replied. Everyone took their positions on the battlefield.
"The battle between Cardinal Ichigo and Gym Leader Fantina will begin," the referee announced. "This will be a three-on-three match. Trainers, at the count of three, release your first Pokémon." Ichigo and Fantina nodded. "One," they both took out a Poké Ball. "Two… THREE!" Ichigo and Fantina released their first Pokémon. Ichigo sent out his Hydreigon while Fantina sent out an Aegislash.
"The first battle between Hydreigon and Aegislash will begin! Ichigo has the first move."
"Triple Flamethrower!" Ichigo ordered. All three of Hydreigon's heads opened their mouths and fired Flamethrowers at Aegislash.
"King's Shield!" Fantina ordered. A transparent barrier appeared around Aegislash, protecting it from Hydreigon's flames.
"Dark Pulse, Triple Rapid Fire!" Ichigo commanded. Hydreigon ceased her Flamethrowers and began to rapid-fire small Dark Pulses at Aegislash. Aegislash kept up its defense with King's Shield.
"Excellent. She's too reliant on King's Shield, forgetting the downside of the move," Ichigo observed as Aegislash struggled to maintain the shield. Cracks began to form in the shield.
"Aim for the cracks!" Ichigo ordered. Hydreigon adjusted her aim, targeting the weak points in the shield. The King's Shield shattered under the force of the Dark Pulses.
"Triple Flamethrower!" Ichigo commanded. Three streams of fire shot out at Aegislash.
"Get away!" Fantina shouted, but Aegislash was unable to react in time and was engulfed by the flames.
"Stop," Ichigo said. Hydreigon immediately halted her attack, and the flames dissipated, revealing an unconscious Aegislash.
"The battle is over. The winner is Hydreigon," the referee declared. Fantina recalled her Aegislash and sent out her next Pokémon. Ichigo quickly scanned the new arrival.
"Jellicent, a Water Ghost-type, is owned by Gym Leader Fantina. No other information available," the Pokédex identified.
"She might have an ice-type move on that Jellicent," Ichigo thought as he recalled Hydreigon and sent out his Alolan Golem.
"Looks like he realized my plan for his Hydreigon," Fantina thought with a small nod.
"The match between Golem and Jellicent will begin. Fantina has the first move."
"Will-O-Wisp," she ordered.
"Dodge it with Magnet Rise!" Ichigo commanded. Small disks of electricity formed beneath Alolan Golem's feet as he rose into the air, avoiding the Will-O-Wisp.
"Shadow Ball!" Fantina ordered.
"Dodge it and use Wild Charge!" Ichigo called. Alolan Golem veered to the side, narrowly avoiding the Shadow Ball. He released Magnet Rise, beginning his descent toward Jellicent, enveloped in yellow electricity.
"Get away!" Fantina shouted. Jellicent jumped back, just narrowly escaping the attack. Alolan Golem landed with a thud, climbing out of a small crater.
"Are you okay?" Ichigo asked.
Alolan Golem gave a thumbs-up in response.
"Wild Rollout!" Ichigo ordered. Alolan Golem was surrounded by electricity as he curled into a ball and sped toward Jellicent.
"Will-O-Wisp!" Fantina shouted. Jellicent fired the flames at the incoming Alolan Golem. The flames hit their target, but Alolan Golem seemed to ignore the Will-O-Wisp, charging ahead.
"Dodge it!" Fantina commanded, but Jellicent was too slow. Alolan Golem slammed into her, sending her crashing into a nearby rock.
Alolan Golem stopped spinning, turned, and stared at Jellicent.
"Hex!" Fantina ordered. Jellicent's eyes glowed with a mix of purple and red light as energy surrounded Alolan Golem, beginning to cause damage.
"Wild Rollout!" Ichigo shouted. Despite the effects of Hex, Alolan Golem powered through, wrapping himself in electricity once more and rolling toward Jellicent.
"Dodge it!" Fantina shouted in desperation. To her dismay, Jellicent couldn't react in time. Alolan Golem collided with her, sending her sprawling.
"Keep it up with Thunderbolt!" Ichigo ordered. Alolan Golem held Jellicent firmly and began shocking her with a powerful jolt.
"Destiny Bond!" Fantina cried out.
"Stop Golem!" Ichigo yelled, but it was too late. Alolan Golem knocked Jellicent unconscious just as the purple energy from Destiny Bond surged toward him.
Alolan Golem groaned and collapsed, unconscious.
"The battle is over. Neither Pokémon can continue," the referee announced. Ichigo and Fantina recalled their Pokémon.
"It was a good thing I got the first win," Ichigo thought. "If she tries that again, I still win."
"At the count of three, send in your next Pokémon," the referee called. "One." Fantina removed one of her gloves and slid a bracelet onto her hand, revealing a Mega Stone. Ichigo revealed the necklace around his neck, which also contained a Mega Stone. "Two." Both trainers readied their Pokémon. "Three!"
Ichigo released his Tyranitar, and Fantina sent out her Mismagius. Ichigo scanned the new Pokémon.
"Mismagius is a Ghost-type Pokémon, owned by Gym Leader Fantina. No other information available," the Pokédex identified.
Tyranitar let out a mighty roar, and the sandstorm enveloped the battlefield.
"MEGA SHINKA!" both trainers shouted. Both Pokémon were engulfed in bright white orbs, and when they emerged, their forms had drastically changed.
Mismagius's hat grew slightly larger, and her body elongated into a flowing dress with long sleeves and a scarf. The central gem on her chest turned blue (11).
Mega Tyranitar's body changed as well, now having four triangular holes along the sides of her neck, with red ovals on the top two. The spikes on her neck became shorter, but the ones on her head elongated into sharp ridges. A long horn now protruded from her head. Her chest plate expanded, curving over her shoulders and down her back, forming three long, irregular spikes on each side. The scales on her belly turned red, and her tail grew longer with three upward-pointing spikes at the tip.
"The battle between Mega Tyranitar and Mega Mismagius will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Crunch!" Ichigo ordered. Mega Tyranitar's mouth glowed with dark energy as she charged toward Mega Mismagius.
"Dodge it and use Dazzling Gleam!" Fantina called. Mega Mismagius soared into the air, avoiding the attack. She then released a bright burst of Fairy energy.
"Use the sandstorm to protect yourself!" Ichigo shouted. Mega Tyranitar roared, and the sandstorm intensified, shielding her from the Dazzling Gleam.
"Where is it?" Fantina wondered.
"Rock Slide to distract it!" Ichigo ordered. Rocks began to fall from above, heading toward Mismagius's location.
"Dodge the rocks!" Fantina ordered. Mismagius floated to the side, evading the rocks. She looked around frantically, trying to locate Mega Tyranitar.
"Crunch!" Ichigo yelled. Suddenly, Mega Tyranitar emerged from the ground and snapped her jaws around Mega Mismagius.
"Dazzling Gleam!" Fantina ordered, but Mismagius was too slow to focus. As Tyranitar violently shook her, the dark energy from Crunch overwhelmed Mismagius. Her body went limp.
"Let it go," Ichigo said. Mega Tyranitar released Mismagius, who fell to the ground, unconscious.
"The battle is over. The winner is Mega Tyranitar. The winner of this match is Ichigo!" the referee announced.
Mega Tyranitar let out a triumphant roar. Ichigo allowed her to finish her declaration before recalling her. Fantina followed suit.
After a short 30-minute break, Fantina was ready to battle Sabrina. Sabrina used her Mega Alakazam, Jynx, and Espeon against Fantina's Dragapult, Mimikyu, and Mega Gengar. Despite Fantina having the type advantage, Sabrina nearly lost. The battle came down to Fantina's Mega Gengar versus Sabrina's Mega Alakazam. In the end, Mega Alakazam stood for a few moments before succumbing to Mega Gengar's attacks.
Ichigo joined Sabrina at the battlefield, where they were presented with the Legacy Relic Badge. The badge resembled three Will-O'-the-Wisp flames arranged in a rotating triangle, set against a golden background. The two headed back to the Pokémon Center for a restful night before continuing their journey.
Scene Change: Veilstone City
Ichigo and Sabrina walked down Route 209. Ichigo had his Staravia, Monferno, and Aron out, while Sabrina had her Kirlia and Bronzor. Ichigo kept Malware and Skorupi hidden, allowing them to train inside the Trainer. They soon arrived in Solaceon Town, where they were immediately confronted by a dense ghostly aura around the town. Sabrina rushed to the Pokémon Center, where a few local priests placed cleansing tags around it. She stayed there the entire time, while Ichigo ventured into the Lost Tower.
Ichigo caught a red Duskull, Misdreavus, and Murkrow. Afterward, they left the town. As they crossed Route 215, Ichigo found a Bagon. Near the end of the route, Ichigo and Sabrina's Pokémon Eggs hatched. Ichigo hatched a Kubfu, and Sabrina hatched an Inkay. Afterward, they arrived in Veilstone City and took a day of rest at the Pokémon Center before challenging the gym.
Ichigo had his new Kubfu and Monferno out, preparing for the impending battle. They entered the gym and were greeted by people practicing martial arts.
"Greetings," one of them said, pausing his training. "What can I do for you two?"
"We're here to challenge the gym leader," Ichigo said.
"Before you challenge Black Belt Maylene, you must beat all of us!" he declared. Immediately, all the other martial artists stopped their training and joined him.
"Wait," Sabrina tried to interject.
"Well, it's been a while since I had a good fight," Ichigo said, cracking his neck and knuckles. Kubfu and Monferno watched as Ichigo easily knocked out the incoming martial artists.
"WHAT IS GOING ON?!" someone shouted. Ichigo turned to see a young girl with pink hair walking toward them.
"Black Belt Maylene," one of the martial artists said.
"This man came here to challenge you to a battle."
"Oh?"
"He meant a gym battle," Sabrina corrected.
"Oh," another martial artist said, turning to the one who had started the whole mess. "You idiot!"
"It's fine," Ichigo said. "I needed that light warm-up." He noticed Kubfu.
"Sorry, Disciple of the Isles of Armor, for my student's improper action!" Maylene said, bowing her head. The other martial artists immediately followed suit.
"Um… what?" Ichigo questioned.
Maylene looked up, slightly confused. "You're not a Disciple of the Isles of Armor?"
"No, I'm not."
"Then how do you have a Kubfu? Master Mustard only presents Kubfu to his chosen Disciple," she said.
"A breeder gave me Kubfu's egg when I rescued her daughter from a cave."
"Oh… That's strange." Maylene looked thoughtful. "I believe the Pokémon Egg you were given was stolen from Master Mustard."
"I see… Do you know if I could contact him and let him know the situation?"
"Sure… After our battle," she said.
"Sure," Ichigo replied. Ichigo and Sabrina followed Maylene to the back, where the battlefield was located. Sabrina, Kubfu, and Monferno sat down at a nearby set of bleachers. Ichigo, Maylene, and the referee took their respective spots.
"The match between Cardinal Ichigo and Gym Leader Maylene will begin. At the count of three, release your first Pokémon," the referee instructed. "One… Two… Three!"
Ichigo and Maylene released their first Pokémon. Maylene sent out her Infernape, while Ichigo sent out his Hatterene.
"The first battle between Hatterene and Infernape will begin. Ichigo has the first move."
"Psychic," Ichigo commanded. Hatterene's eyes glowed as she wrapped her psychic energy around Infernape and hurled him toward the wall.
"Flare Blitz," Maylene called. Infernape let out a roar as it was engulfed in fire, breaking free from Hatterene's Psychic and charging toward her.
"Teleport and Psychic," Ichigo instructed. Just as Infernape was about to strike, Hatterene teleported away, causing Infernape to miss and crash to the ground. Hatterene appeared a few feet away from him. Her eyes glowed as she wrapped Infernape in Psychic energy again, repeatedly slamming him into the ground.
"Infernape break free!" Maylene ordered.
"Don't let him break free!" Ichigo shouted. Infernape was engulfed in flames as he struggled to break free from Hatterene's Psychic. Hatterene poured more energy into her Psychic, preventing him from escaping. The flames around Infernape were eventually extinguished by the overwhelming force of her psychic power. Hatterene raised him one final time and threw him toward Maylene. Infernape crashed onto the battlefield, unconscious.
"The battle is over. The winner is Hatterene," the referee declared.
Maylene recalled her Infernape and sent out her Lucario. She revealed the back of her hand, showing a Mega Stone. Ichigo recalled his Hatterene and sent out his Blaziken.
"MEGA SHINKA!" Ichigo and Maylene shouted as their Pokémon were engulfed in energy. The light faded to reveal Mega Blaziken and Mega Lucario.
"The battle between Mega Blaziken and Mega Lucario will begin. Maylene has the first move."
"Earthquake!" Maylene ordered. Mega Lucario raised its right leg and stomped the ground, sending shockwaves toward Mega Blaziken.
"Jump and use Blaze Kick!" Ichigo commanded. Mega Blaziken leaped into the air, avoiding the Earthquake. Her right leg erupted in flames as she descended toward Mega Lucario.
"Dodge it!" Maylene ordered. Mega Lucario jumped back, causing Mega Blaziken to miss and crash into the ground. Mega Blaziken quickly recovered, shaking her right leg.
"Are you okay?" Ichigo asked.
Mega Blaziken glanced at Ichigo and nodded.
"Good. Flaming Aura Close Combat!" Ichigo called.
"I understand Close Combat, but what's Flaming Aura?" Maylene thought, trying to comprehend Ichigo's unusual command. As Blaziken became engulfed in flames, she charged toward Mega Lucario. "Is that Flare Blitz?" Maylene wondered.
"Dodge it!" she ordered. Mega Lucario jumped to the left as Mega Blaziken closed in. Suddenly, Mega Blaziken's right hand, covered in flames, punched Mega Lucario in the face. The unexpected attack knocked Mega Lucario off balance, but he quickly recovered. Mega Blaziken pursued him, landing a flurry of rapid punches and kicks.
"Close Combat!" Maylene shouted. Mega Lucario ducked beneath a punch and rammed his head into Mega Blaziken's face. The unexpected move disrupted Mega Blaziken's flow, allowing Mega Lucario to counterattack. Mega Blaziken quickly regained her stance and resumed her offensive. The battle between the two Pokémon became a fierce martial arts contest, with both trainers silent as their Pokémon fought with all their might.
In the end, there could only be one winner. Mega Blaziken delivered a powerful flaming uppercut to Mega Lucario's chin, knocking him out cold.
"The battle is over. The winner is Mega Blaziken," the referee declared. Maylene recalled her Mega Lucario.
"I forfeit," she declared. The referee nodded.
"Gym Leader Maylene forfeited. The winner is Cardinal Ichigo," the referee announced. Ichigo recalled his Mega Blaziken and turned to Sabrina.
"We'll have our match later. Let me call Master Mustard about the Kubfu situation," she said.
"Very well," Sabrina replied. Ichigo recalled Monferno and carried Kubfu with him as they headed to Maylene's office. She powered on her computer and called Master Mustard. A few minutes later, the call connected. Ichigo could see an elderly man dressed in a green jacket with a blue paw print, a yellow undershirt, and white pants. He also wore a bowler hat with green highlights.
"Hello Maylene," Mustard greeted.
"Hello Master Mustard," she replied.
"What can I do for you?" he asked.
"Are you missing a Kubfu?" Maylene asked.
"How did you know that?" he responded. Maylene stepped aside, allowing Ichigo and Kubfu to come into view. Ichigo explained to Mustard how he had rescued a breeder's daughter, and she gave him the egg that contained Kubfu as a reward.
"Thank you for taking care of Kubfu," Mustard said. "But you should return Kubfu."
"Why?" Ichigo asked.
"Well, because Kubfu and its evolutionary line are highly revered in our sect. Only the master or special disciples are allowed to take care of a Kubfu," Mustard explained.
"I'm not giving him away," Ichigo said firmly. Mustard's eyebrows, which had been relaxed, now furrowed upward as he gave Ichigo a stern look. Ichigo returned the gaze, tension rising between them. Maylene and Kubfu noticed the shift in the atmosphere.
"Fine then," Mustard said. "I want to see how you can evolve Kubfu."
"Evolve?" Ichigo asked, confused.
"Yes," Mustard replied. "In our sect, Kubfu can evolve after mastering either Darkness Style Single Strike or Water Style Rapid Strike."
"And you want me to teach one of these styles to Kubfu for him to evolve?" Ichigo asked.
"Correct," Mustard said confidently.
"I accept your challenge," Ichigo said, determined. Mustard opened his mouth to speak, but Ichigo quickly interjected.
"BUT!" Ichigo continued, "You must show how the technique is done first."
They stared at each other for a moment, until Mustard sighed.
"I've emailed Maylene the videos. She will share them with you," Mustard said.
"Got it," Maylene replied.
"So, how much time do I have?" Ichigo asked.
"Since you're a Pokémon Trainer, I assume you're planning to participate in the Lily of the Valley Conference," Mustard said.
"I am," Ichigo confirmed.
"Then, before the start of the Conference, we shall meet, and I'll take back my Kubfu," Mustard said, then ended the call (12).
Ichigo glanced at Maylene, who shared the video with him. He took Kubfu and left the room. Maylene sighed. Ichigo and Kubfu sat in the audience stands as the match between Sabrina and Maylene began. Ichigo watched the video Maylene had sent him.
"Hm... Darkness Style is simply concentrating all your power into one strike to instantly destroy the target. Water Style is focusing all your energy into sending fast, precise strikes toward your opponent's weak points," Ichigo thought.
"The Darkness Style Single Strike is likely based on a mixture of Tiger Style and Leopard Style. While Water Style Rapid Strike seems to draw from Crane Style and Seven Star Mantis Style," Kyōka commented.
"The match is over! The winner is Sabrina!" the announcer declared. Ichigo glanced at the scoreboard.
"So, Maylene used a Mega Heracross, Scrafty, and Pangoro against Sabrina's Mega Medicham and both her male and female Alakazam," Ichigo noted, as he walked down to the battlefield where Maylene presented him with the Cobble Badge. It resembled four orange bricks, or four orange tatami mats, on a golden plate.
"I'm sorry for what happened with Master Mustard," Maylene said.
"It's not your fault," Ichigo said, accepting the badge. Sabrina quietly followed suit. They returned to the Pokémon Center for the night, and the next morning, they left Veilstone City.
I hope all of you enjoyed this chapter. I know most of you are tired of Pokémon but please hold on. With the rate that I am going through, I'll likely be done with Sinnoh in 2 more chapters, compared with Kanto which took 5 chapters, not including the transitional chapter from Kanto to Sinnoh. With Kalos, I expect it to take 5 chapters due to the major change to the plot for Kalos. I also decided to make every Gym Leader's ace become a Mega Pokémon since it would make sense for their strongest team to have one though, I would have to use custom Megas since, at the time of writing this chapter, June/July/August of 2021, there is no information mentioning the returns of Mega Evolution in Brilliant Dimond and Shining Pearl. Anyways down below are the author's notes. They include explanations on why certain characters act completely differently compared to the source material.
Author's notes:
(1) I decided to portray Paul to be much more of a bastard compared to the anime. He severely underestimated Ichigo. He assumed Ichigo was a beginner since he didn't recognize Chimchar and Elekid. While Ichigo has an Electivire, he has never seen an Elekid. Paul released Chimchar much earlier compared to the anime because of how badly Chimchar lost. Scizor is a bug steel type, meaning she is four times weaker than fire-type attacks. Despite that Chimchar failed to defeat Scizor.
(2) Reminder that I changed Salazzle's ability, Corrosion. Salazzle's Poison-type attacks can cause regular damage to steel type instead of no damage. This also allows her to poison them as well.
(3) Mega Shinka sounds way better than Mega Evolution, blame it on Digimon.
(4) Mega Bastiodon art was designed by theangryaron from Pokemonpet dot com.
(5) Mega Rampardos art was designed by neoz7 from Pokemonpet dot com.
(6) Imagine the Pokémon schools are the equivalent of attending Kindergarten to 12th grade, mandatory by the government. After graduating, you have the option to become a Pokémon Trainer or enter the workforce. But it's easier to enter the workforce if you have the experience of a Pokémon Trainer. The best way to show experience is by participating in the local Conference. If you win the Conference, you become an Ace Trainer. If you beat 2/4 of the Elite 4, you're considered an Elite Trainer. If you beat the Champion, then you're either the new Champion or a Carinal Trainer. This is similar to going to college and either getting an Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree. After that, you can retire from being a Pokémon Trainer and enter the work field. Almost all jobs in the Pokémon world require you to work in conjunction with Pokémon. Your employer doesn't need to worry about you putting yourself in danger since you know how to take care of Pokémon and you have your own Pokémon so it's easier for each other to work together.
(7) Mega Roserade is from user vikthor01 on Deviantart.
(8) Mega Torterra is from user TRXPICS on Deviantart.
(9) In both games, the Team Galactic building is inside the down, surrounded by some trees. I decided to make it more realistic since it is supposed to be a secret base. As in a secret hideout inside a forest.
(10) Steel Body is an ability that allows the Pokémon to be considered a Steel Type in addition to its other weaknesses. I decided to add this since it makes sense since some of the machines Rotom forms into are steel-like, which does line up with Rotom's slight increase in defense and special defense and lowering speed.
(11) Mega Mismagius art was designed by locomotive111 from Pokemonpet dot com.
(12) Based on the design of Dojo, Tower of Water/Tower of Darkness, and the description of Single Strike Style and Rapid Strike Style, I decided to make them into a Chinese Sect, which is a subgroup of a religious, political, or philosophical belief system, usually an offshoot of a larger group. In Cultivation Webnovels, these sects would be in secluded areas and hostile towards outsiders and prevent outsiders from learning their techniques. This was what I tried to portray with Ichigo's interaction with Mustard.