Story Notes:
The journey will go from Kanto to Johto, to Hoenn, to Sinnoh. I may do the battle frontiers but i don't know (we'll see when i get there)Disclaimer: Pokemon and all related characters, locations, items, ect are the copyrighted property of Nintendo and as such I claim no rights to them.I'm currently working two jobs and I'm kinda making this up as I go along, so don't be surprised if there are delays between chapters... I'll try to update this as regularly as i can (I do apologies for the delays, but that's how life goes)Updates...Genre: Adventure/Romance (relationships between characters will begin to develop after the Kanto League)Warning: One later chapter will contain fairly light scenes of sexual intercourse between two characters. (Much later chapter,will be marked for mature content) For now, I'm rating this PG 13
Chapter 8: The Nature-Loving Princess
"And its heads, which means, Ashley gets the first battle" Ben picked up his coin
"Yes!" Ashley smiled
"Aw man" Alex frowned
"Sorry, better luck next time" Ben said
"Then it's decided, Ashley will be the first challenger" Erika smiled, "Please follow me"
Erika led them to her gym, which was a large building with four entrances and 6 large red pedals that formed the roof, resembling the top of a Vileplume. As they entered the building, it felt more like they were entering a greenhouse. There were so many different types of trees, flowers, and other plant life all around them
"This place is beautiful" Ashley smiled
"I'll say" Ben agreed, Alex and Melody simply looked around and smiled as they took in the beauty around them
"Thank you" Erika smiled, "I just love plants and flowers"
"Welcome back, my lady" a female voice said
They looked forward to see several girls, two in maid outfits
"Welcome back, Lady Erika" another of the girls said as they all gave a slight bow
"Hello" Erika greeted them with a smile
"Is there anything we can get for you?"
"I have challengers, would you please make sure the battlefield is ready?"
"Of course, my lady"
"Lady Erika?" Alex wore a look of confusion
"They must have a lot of respect for her" Ben leaned in behind Alex
"I guess so" Ashley said
Suddenly, a light appeared from Ashley's waist and a small green pokemon with two red flowers on its head and a dress made of green and yellow leaves appeared.
"Bellossom" it said happily as it looked around at the flowers and plant of the greenhouse
"What's that?" Alex asked, reaching for his pokedex
"Bellossom, the Flower Pokémon and an evolved form of Gloom. When these Pokémon move, their delicate petals rub together, creating a pleasant sound. They are also known for their unique acrobatic dancing abilities. Bellossom are often seen dancing and chanting, resembling cheerleaders, although they're usually not actually cheering for anyone. In particular, Bellossom dances when cloudy weather persists, or when the heavy rainfall season ends and it is drawn out by the warm sunlight."
"Bellossom, what are you doing?" Ashley asked in surprise
The Flower pokemon wandered towards a patch of beautiful red and yellow flower, admiring the color and aroma. Erika smiled and giggled
"We care for so many different types of plants and flower here, this place is perfect for Grass-type pokemon like your Bellossom" Erika said as Bellossom began to dance happily
"I'm sorry, she really loves flowers" Ashley said in a slightly embarrassed tone
"It's alright" Erika smiled, "actually I'm glad to see that she's enjoying herself"
"I'll keep an eye on her while you have your battle, my lady" one of Erika's attendants approached
"Thank you" Ashley said
They eventually arrived at a clearing, where a large battlefield was set up. Several of Erika's attendants were already there, one acting as the referee. As Ashley and Erika took their places on the field and Alex, Melody, and Ben took a seat on the side lines, the rules of the battle were announced,
"This will be a battle between the gym leader, Erika and the challenger, Ashley. Both sides will have the use of three pokemon and the battle will be over when all of one side's pokemon are unable to continue. In addition, only the challenger will be allowed to switch pokemon. Are you ready?"
Both sides nodded and grabbed a pokeball
"Then choose your pokemon"
"Victreebel, let's go" Erika called out her pokemon
Out of Erika's pokeball appeared a large plant like pokemon with two giant leaves on the sides of its long cylindrical body, a leaf on top of a mouth with teeth at the top of its body, and a long brown vine growing out of the top of it
"What the heck?" Alex reached for his pokedex
"Victreebel, the Flycatcher Pokémon and the evolved form of Weepinbell. Victreebel can be found in small groups and are highly territorial. At the depths of the most dangerous jungles Victreebel live in huge colonies, and few Pokémon enter their territory and live to tell the tale. Victreebel horde food, usually small birds and rodents, and collect Leaf Stones to perform evolution rituals at night to help Weepinbell become more Victreebel. It uses an incredibly sweet-smelling honey to attract bugs, and sometimes larger prey, ranging from small rodents to creatures almost as large as themselves. The prey is then swallowed whole and is slowly digested by powerful acids strong enough to melt steel"
"Never seen one of those before" Alex said as he closed his pokedex and placed it in his lap
"Don't let its looks fool you" Ben said, "Those things are actually pretty tough"
Suddenly, a light erupted from Alex's belt as Johnny appeared in front of him
"Johnny, what are you doing?" Alex asked
"I think the little guy wants to watch" Ben replied
Johnny nodded and waved his little arms happily. Alex smiled and picked him up
"Well, alright" Alex placed Johnny in his lap, "I do want to get him used to battles so I guess this would be good for him"
"Alright Pidgoet, let's do this" Ashley threw her pokeball
Out of the light, a large bird appeared. Brown feathers covered the top, while cream colored feathers covered its underside. A crest of red and yellow stretched along its back
"Wow, it's beautiful" Ben remarked
"Whoa, Pidgeot?" Alex pointed his pokedex at it
"Pidgeot, the Bird Pokémon and the evolved form of Pidgeotto. Pidgeot is a powerful flier, capable of creating whirlwinds strong enough to bend trees. At maximum velocity it can reach speeds of Mach 2 if it accelerates for long enough, which is incredibly rare. It has keen eyes that allow it to see Magikarp from a distance of 3300 feet in the air. Pidgeot may also spread its wings widely to intimidate enemies."
"If we're going just by type, Ashley's Pidgeot has the advantage over Victreebel" Ben looked to Alex
"This is gonna be good" Alex smiled as he closed his pokedex
"Let the battle begin!" the referee announced
"Pidgeot, Quick Attack" Ashley commanded
"Victreebel, power up with Swords Dance" Erika replied
Victreebel's leaves began to glow with a purple tint as it commenced with an odd dance as Pidgeot speed towards its opponent at blinding speeds. Alex was amazed at how fast Pidgeot was moving. But as the Bird pokemon collide with its opponent, Victreebel didn't seem too bothered by the hit. It simply shook its body and stood ready for battle.
"Leaf Blade" Erika pointed at the still airborne Flying type.
Victreebel's leaves glowed bright green as it launched itself at its opponent.
"That thing can jump?!" Alex said surprised at the Grass types maneuver.
"Blow it away with Gust" Ashley urgently responded.
Pidgoet immediately spread its wings and began flapping them vigorously, producing a powerful blast of wind that blew Victreebel back towards its trainer. The Grass-type hit the ground hard but managed to remain upright as it slid backwards, stopping just three feet from Erika.
"Now Aerial Ace"
Victreebel gazed up at the Bird pokemon as it sped towards it at fast speed, white streaks coming off its body.
"Sludge Bomb" Erika commanded.
Victreebel opened its mouth and launched a barrage of purple globs of sludge at its airborne opponent. Pidgeot managed to avoid the full front of the attack and connected with its own attack.
"Leaf Storm"
Victreebel's body began to glow light green as leaves seemed to materialize around it. As Pidgeot flew away from its opponent, Victreebel unleashed a powerful cyclone of light green leaves that enveloped the Bird Pokemon. The force from the attack spun the pokemon violently and was spiraling towards one of the massive trees that surrounded the battlefield
"Use Quick Attack to get outta there!" Ashley shouted.
Summoning every ounce of strength it could, Pidgeot spread its wings and forced its way out of the vortex, a white streak of energy streamed off of its wings and tail as it flew high above the battlefield.
"Now, Brave Bird!!"
Pidgeot folded its wings inwards and its body became coated in flames as it dove towards its target. Pidgeot spread its wings, the flames that coated its body suddenly turned into a shining blue aura.
"Sludge Bomb!"
Pidgeot connected with its attack before Victreebel could launch its attack. The two pokemon collided as a large explosion enveloped them both. Pidgeot flew out of the smoke and hovered above the center of the battlefield, wincing as blue sparks covered its body.
"What's Brave Bird?" Alex asked
"It's a really powerful Flying-type move" Ben explained, "But it's a risky move"
"Huh, what do you mean?"
"It inflicts recoil damage onto the user... use it too much and it can be dangerous"
"Wow..."
"There are other moves that are similar to Brave Bird... such as Flare Blitz, Volt Tackle, Double Edge, and Wood Hammer"
"Victeebel is unable to battle" the ref announced, "Pidgeot wins"
"Great Job" Ashley smiled as Erika recalled her pokemon to its pokeball.
"Not bad... but that was just the start" Erika smirked as she prepared to call on her second pokemon.
"Tangela, come on out"
Out of the light of the pokeball, Erika's pokemon appeared. It looked like a tangled ball of vines with two red feet and two eyes in the center of the tangled vines that from its body. Alex looked at this creature oddly.
"Tangela, the Vine Pokemon. Tangela is covered with thick blue vines that obscure its face so only its eyes can be seen. It also has a pair of red boot-like feet. Tangela's vines never stop growing and are easily replaced if lost or damaged. Tangela can ensnare and entangle its foes with its vines. It tangles any moving thing with its vines. Their subtle shaking is ticklish if you get ensnared."
"Pidgeot, can you keep going?" Ashley asked, her pokemon looked back and nodded.
"Alright, round two... begin" the ref began the fight.
"Tangela, Stun Spore"
A stream of orange particles flew from Tangela's face.
"Pidgeot, blow it away" Ashley commanded.
Pidgeot slammed its wings vigorously, blowing the cloud of paralyzing particles away.
"Now, Quick Attrack"
The Flying-type flew at its opponent at high speeds.
"Tangela, grab it!"
Tangela's vines flew towards the Bird pokemon. Pidgeot dodged the first few but the Vine pokemon's vines snared the Flying-type at the joints of its wings, preventing it from escaping. Ashley was shocked that her pokemon was caught.
"Shockwave!"
Electricity surrounded Tangela's body and traveled up its vines, delivering a powerful shock to the trapped Flying-type.
"Finish it"
Tangela slammed Pidgeot into the battlefield with force. The ref made her call.
"Pidgeot is unable to battle, Tangela wins"
"Whoa! I didn't know that Grass-types could use Electric attacks?!" Alex said in shock.
"Thanks Pidgeot, now get some rest" Ashley recalled her pokemon.
"Poor Pidgeot" Alex said as it disappeared into its pokeball.
"Don't worry, she'll be alright" Ashley said as she reached for her second pokeball, "Arcanine, let's go!"
"Fire-type... that's a good choice" Ben said as Arcanine stood ready to fight.
"Round three, begin"
"Tangela, Stun Spore"
"Arcanine, counter with Flamethrower"
Arcanine's fire attack burned Tangela's cloud instantly, the Vine pokemon quickly jumped out of the path of the flames. Ashley and Arcanine smirked.
"Tangela, Power Whip" Erika commanded
The Vine pokemon's vines began to glow pink as they flew towards the large dog pokemon
"Power Whip?" Alex looked to Ben
"It's a powerful Grass-type move" Ben answered
"Any downsides to it?"
"None that comes to mind"
"Arcanine, Extreme Speed!" Ashley commanded
Arcanine immediately charged at an unbelievable speed, dodging Tangela's vines with such ease. Tangela flinched as Arcanine got closer and slammed into it fast and hard
"Was that like Quick Attack?" Alex asked
"Actually yes, Extreme Speed is basically a much stronger version of Quick Attack" Ben answered
"Shockwave"
"Flamethrower!"
Both pokemon launched their attacks simultaneously, sparks and embers flew as they collided and soon afterward, exploded violently
"Extreme Speed"
Arcanine charged, erupting out of the smoke at the opposing Grass-type.
"Stun Spore!!"
Tangela let loose another cloud of paralyzing dust into the air, straight into the incoming Fire-type's path.
"Dodge it!!"
Arcanine just managed to make a sharp turn away from the Stun Spore.
"Flamethrower!" Ashley shouted
The Fire-type opened his mouth and unleashed a blazing stream of flames, causing serious damage to the Vine pokemon.
"Flare Blitz!!"
Arcanine's body suddenly became covered in red and orange flames. A split second later, he flew straight at Tangela. The Grass-type turned into a scorching ball of fire as the Fire-type's attack scored a direct hit.
"Flamethrower, one more time"
Tangela was hit with one final flaming attack before hitting one of the many trees that surrounding the battlefield. Arcanine winced from the recoil effect of his Flare Blitz.
"Tangela is unable to battle"
"Good job" Arcanine looked back to see Ashley smiling at him, "Can you keep going?" the Fire-type nodded and turned back towards the opposing trainer
"Thank you Tangela" Erika smiled as she recalled her pokemon and reached for her third and final pokeball, "Vileplume, come on out"
"Vileplume, the Flower Pokemon and an evolved form of Gloom. Vileplume scatters toxic spores and releases noxious gases. Its toxic pollen sometimes triggers atrocious allergy attacks. It also has the world's largest petals which it uses to attract prey. The larger its petals, the more pollen it scatters."
"Round four, begin"
"Vileplume, Sludge Bomb" Erika commanded
"Arcanine, Flamethrower" Ashley countered
Both pokemon launched their attacks simultaneously, exploding as the collided at the very center of the battlefield
"Looks like a draw" Alex was amazed at the power and force behind their attacks
"Use Petal Dance"
Vileplume pointed the large flower on its head towards the opposing Fire-type and unleashed a spiraling twister of pink flower petals.
"Dodge it"
Arcanine jumped out of the path of Vileplume's attack. But as he landed, the Flower pokemon turned his head and chased after the large fire dog
"Watch out!" Ashley shouted
Acranine continued to dodge the Petal Dance, but Vileplume wouldn't give up the chase. Finally, Vileplume's attack ceased and the Grass-type seemed confused or disoriented
"What's wrong with Vileplume?" Alex asked
"Petal Dance confuses the user after it's finished" Ben answered as Vileplume seemed to have difficulty standing straight
"Thunder Fang"
Arcanine ran towards the Flower pokemon, his fangs covered with electricity
"Sleep Powder!" Erika commanded
Despite its confusion, Vileplume released a cloud of light blue particles that flew straight into the Fire-type's sensitive nose. Arcanine instantly felt drowsy and a moment later, tripped and slid across the battlefield stopping just in front of Vileplume, fast asleep. At the same time, the confusion that was afflicting Vileplume a moment ago faded
"Sludge Bomb" Erika smirked
Vileplume fired a barrage of purple sludge at point blank range. The force sent Arcanine sliding across the field, still completely out of it
"Arcanine, you've gotta wake up!"
"Sludge Bomb, once more"
Arcanine took more damage from another barrage of sludge globs. The sleeping pokemon stopped not far from his trainer
"Now, Solarbeam!"
Vileplume pointed its head at its sleeping opponent as sunlight began to gather at the center of its large flower. The more light it absorbed, the brighter it began to glow
"Fire the beam!"
At Erika's command, the Flower pokemon unleashed a massive beam at its still sleeping opponent
"Arcanine, wake up!!" Ashley shouted
Vileplume's beam exploded on contact. But as the smoke cleared, Arcanine stood wide awake, looking almost unscathed from the attack
"What?" Erika was shocked
"Yes" Alex cheered
"He made it" Ashley said with relief
"Looks like he woke up just in time" Ben said as the Fire-type awaited his trainer's command
"Alright, Flamethrower" Ashley pointed at the Grass pokemon
"Sludge Bomb"
"Flare Blitz!"
As the poison and fire attacks collided once again, Arcanine erupted from the smoke, his body covered in flames. Vileplume cried out as the flames from Acranine's attack scorched it
"Thunder Fang"
Arcanine's teeth sparked with electricity and clamped down on a still blazing Vileplume. The combination of fire and electricity caused the burning Grass-type to explode. Ashley and Erika watched as Arcanine slid backwards, smoke still surrounded Erika's pokemon. When the smoke finally settled, the ref made her call
"Vileplume is unable to battle, Arcanine wins. The victory goes to the challenger, Ashley"
"Yes, we won" Ashley smiled as she ran over to her clearly exhausted pokemon, "Good boy, thank you" she hugged and gently petted her pokemon
"She did it" Alex stood up, holding Johnny in his arms
"Arcanine really hung in there" Ben remarked, "She's obviously raised him really well"
"Congratulations, here's the proof you won here... the Rainbow Badge" Erika presented Ashley with her prize
"Way to go Ashley" Alex said as he, Ben and Melody walked up
"Thanks you guys and thank you Arcanine" she smiled, "who's my good boy?" Ashley scratched her pokemon and kissed his head before recalling him to his pokeball for some much needed rest
"I guess I'm next" Alex looked to Erika
"Actually, I need some time to prepare" Erika turned her attention towards him, "My pokemon are exhausted and need to get their energy back"
"Alright... when should I come back?"
"I'll send one of my attendants to find you get you when my pokemon and I are ready" the gym leader answered
"We'll be at the pokemon center" Alex said as they prepared to leave, "See you later"
Back at the pokemon center, Ashley handed her pokemon over to Nurse Joy for some much needed recovery. Ben was at the center's battle area helping Alex prepare for his coming battle. The two had been going at it, rotating between their pokemon for the past several hours. Ashley walked outside to check on their progress, picking Johnny up as she sat down on a bench
"Alright Sophia, Flamethrower"
"Golduck, Ice Beam!"
Sophia fired a stream of flames, while Ben's newly evolved Golduck countered with a frigid light blue beam
"Sophia, Energy Ball"
The crest of hair on top of her head glowed green as a ball of green energy formed in her mouth
"Golduck, Shadow Claw"
An aura of black and purple energy surrounded both of Golduck's webbed hands, taking the shape of long, sharp claws. The Water-type charged as its opponent fired her attack. Golduck gazed intensely as Sophia's attack flew closer and closer until finally, just at the last second, Golduck raised his energized claws and sliced straight through the Energy Ball. Both Alex and Sophia were stunned at the feat.
"One more time, Shadow Claw"
"Use Extrasensory"
Golduck charged his webbed hands with shadow energy once again as Sophia's gleaming red eyes began to glow golden. As the Water-type finished and started to close the distance between him and Sophia, the Fire-type fired a rainbow colored beam of light from her eyes, enveloping the Duck pokemon in a cone of psychic energy. As the attack enveloped the Water-type, Golduck slid backwards, struggling to maintain his footing as the shadow energy surrounding his hands dissipated.
"Great job Sophia" Alex smiled as she ran over to him, "Good girl"
Alex knelt down, scratching her behind her ear and the side of her face. Sophia began to lean into his hands
"She's so much more confident now" he thought as the Ninetales licked his cheek
"Alright, time to switch" Ben said
"Alright Melody, you're up" Alex turned around, Melody stepped onto the battlefield as Sophia took her place on the sideline
"Ok Electabuzz, let's go"
Electabuzz took his place on the battlefield, opposite of Melody
"Melody, Psychic"
"Electabuzz, Protect"
The Electric-type crossed his arms in front of him, forming his barrier as Melody's attack sped towards him. Electrabuzz's shield held strong as the Psychic attack collided with it
"Thunder Punch"
Electabuzz clenched his fist as it burst and crackled with electricity
"Magical Leaf"
Melody counter with a flurry of light green leaves. The opposing Electric-type forced his way through the flurry, bringing his fist up, ready to strike.
"Dodge it"
Although she managed to avoid a direct hit from the Thunder Punch as it hit the battlefield, the force caused rocks and sparks of electricity to shoot out from the point of impact, causing damage to the Psychic-type
"Thunderbolt!" both trainers commanded
Electabuzz's antenna sparked violently as Melody flew backwards from the Thunder Punch, her hand sparking with electricity as well. Both pokemon fired as she hit the ground, large sparks flew in every direction as the two electric attacks collided
"Psychic!"
A blast of light blue psychic energy flew at Electabuzz, connecting in the center of his body. The Electric pokemon slid backwards, losing his footing and slamming his back on the battlefield.
"Brick Break!" Ben commanded as his pokemon got to his feet
Electabuzz ran at Melody, his right hand sparked with white energy as he prepared to karate chop his opponent
"Protect!" Alex called
Melody's eyes light up slightly as her shield formed around her. Electabuzz's hand bounced off the Emotion pokemon's barrier
"Psychic!"
As her shield faded, Melody countered with a powerful Psychic blast. Electabuzz took the full force of the attack and flew across the battlefield, landing four feet away from his trainer
"Thunderbolt!"
The Electric pokemon fired another blast of electricity at the Emotion pokemon
"Dodge it"
Melody jumped out of the path of the bolt of electricity. Alex covered his eyes as the blast exploded near his side of the field
"Psychic!"
Melody landed and launched another blast of psychic energy at her opponent
"Dodge it, then Thunder Punch"
Electabuzz evaded the attack and clenched his fist, electricity sparked violently around his fist
"Thunderbolt!" Alex shouted
The Electric pokemon charged the Psychic-type as she fired a bolt of electricity directly in his path. Electabuzz dodged and punched Melody at full force, sending her hurtling towards a tree
"Melody!!"
Alex ran into her path and caught her in his arms. As he caught her, he tripped and fell, hitting his back on the tree. Ben, Ashley, and Sophia quickly ran over to them
"Alex!" Melody looked at him, wincing in pain
"Melody, you alright?" Alex opened his eyes and looked at his childhood friend
"I'm alright..." she answered
"I'm glad" he smiled, Melody blushed slightly
"Are you alright?" Ben helped him up
"I'm ok" Alex said as he got to his feet
Electabuzz and Sophia walked up to Melody and spoke to her in their native tongue
"Are you alright?" Sophia asked
"I'm fine" she replied
"Sorry about that last one..." Electabuzz apologized, "I guess I got carried away... I'm sorry" he scratched the back of his head as he spoke
"It's alright" Melody smiled at the Electric pokemon
"You could have really hurt yourself back there Alex" Ashley said as Alex stretched and popped his back
"What can I say?" Alex just looked at her, "She's my best friend..."
"I've never met a trainer like you before..." Ashley looked at him
"I'll take that as a compliment" Alex smiled at her, "Come on Melody, let's go see Nurse Joy" he, Melody, and Sophia walked into the pokemon center
"I've never seen such dedication in a trainer before..." Ashley was amazed at how far he was willing to go for his pokemon
"I've said it before and I will say it again... the trust between him and his pokemon is truly something to behold" Ben walked up next to Ashley
"Even so... I've never met anyone who is so close to their pokemon before"
"I guess that's just the way he operates... he seems like the type of person who when he develops a friendship with someone, it's a very close one" Ashley just smiled in amazement as they saw Alex hand Joy his pokemon to be treated
"I guess he knows just how valuable friendships truly are..."
"Pardon me" a voice said from behind
"Here you are, I'm all finished treating your pokemon" Joy handed Alex back his pokeballs as Melody jumped down
"Thanks Nurse Joy"
"Good luck with your battle"
"Thanks" he smiled
"Hey Alex" Ben called
"Huh?" he and Melody turned to see one of Erika's attendants standing behind Ben and Ashley
"Excuse me; Lady Erika is ready for you"
"Alright, guess it's our turn"
As they headed back towards the gym, Alex tapped Erika's attendant
"Hey can I ask you something?"
"Yes?"
"Pardon me for asking, but why do you call her Lady Erika?" Alex asked, "Is she a princess or something?"
"Yes, Lady Erika is a princess and is a much respected part of this city" she answered him, "Not only is she the leader of the Celadon City gym, she also teaches at the local university, head of the Archery club, and teaches the art of flower arrangement and creating beautiful perfumes"
"Wow..." Alex said in amazement
"She is a truly wonderful person and all of us are happy to serve her" the attendant smiled
"No wonder she's so well respected..." Ben commented
"I just can't believe that she's really a princess..." Alex said, "I've never met a real princess before"
"Yeah and you bumped into her earlier" Ashley smirked
"You did what?" the attendant looked back at him
"It was an accident, I wasn't paying attention and I walked into her" he explained in an embarrassed tone, "I'm sorry" he started to get worried about bumping into a real princess, worried he might get into some serious trouble now
"You're just lucky that Lady Erika didn't get hurt" the attendant glared at him
"Sorry" Alex flinched as she glared at him; she looked like she'd kill him if Erika had really gotten hurt
As they finally returned to the gym, Alex, Ben, Ashley, and Melody were led to the battlefield. Erika and the rest of her maids and attendants were waiting for them.
"Welcome back" Erika greeted them with a smile, "Are you ready?"
"I'm ready when you are" Alex took his place on the battlefield as Ben and Ashley sat on the sidelines
"The battle between Erika, the gym leader, and Alex, the challenger, is about to begin. Both sides will have the use of three pokemon and the battle will be over when all three of one side's pokemon are unable to continue. In addition, only the challenger will be allowed to substitute their pokemon during this battle" the ref announced, "Choose your pokemon"
"Tangela, come on out" Erika threw her pokeball, the ball opened and her pokemon appeared
"Alright Melody, let's go" Alex looked at her, she nodded and took her place on the field
"Are you ready?" both trainers nodded, "Let the battle begin!"
"Melody, Psychic" Alex commanded
"Tangela, Hidden Power"
As Melody charged her attack, Tangela's body began to glow with light as many small white balls of energy began to form all around it. A second later, both fired their respective attacks and collided with evenly matched power
"Tangela, Shockwave"
"Counter with Thnderbolt"
Both combatants fired their electric attacks; Melody's attack began to push back on Tangela's before enveloping it
"Melody, Psychic one more time"
"Tangela, dodge it then use Power Whip!"
Tangela managed to evade her blast and threw two powerful vines at opposing Psychic-type
"Watch out!"
Melody avoided the first attack, but was thrown halfway across the battlefield by a swing from the second vine
"Psychic!"
Melody's eyes began to glow light blue as she landed. A moment later, she fired two beams of psychic energy at the Vine pokemon, Tangela disappeared in a psychic explosion
"Hidden Power!"
Suddenly, a barrage of small white balls burst from the smoke and flew straight at the Emotion pokemon
"Dodge it!"
"Tangela, grab her!"
As Melody dodged the barrage of Hidden Power, two vines wrapped around her midsection
"Shockwave!!"
Tangela's electric attack traveled down its vines and headed for the trapped Psychic-type
"Protect!!" Alex shouted
Although the vines still gripped her, Melody's barrier appeared around her and succeeded in stopping the electricity from reaching her
"Stun Spore" Erika commanded as the barrier faded
As her barrier faded, Tangela sent a cloud of orange particles that completely enveloped the Emotion pokemon. Sparks formed around her, making it difficult to move
"Alright, use Power Whip"
But nothing happened... both Erika and Alex looked over at Tangela and were surprised to see sparks all around its body, just like Melody. Tangela was paralyzed and unable to move
"Why does Tangela look paralyzed?" Ashley asked
"Looks like Melody's ability is Synchronize" Ben remarked
"Synchronize?" Alex looked back at Ben
"It's an ability that allows her to transfer a status ailment like Burn, Poison, or Paralysis to the opponent" he explained
"Melody use Psychic, Max Power!!"
Fighting through the paralysis, the Psychic-type's entire body began glow light blue as her psychic energy built up. Unleashing a massive blast, Tangela was launched clear across the battlefield straight into a large tree, finally freeing Melody from its vines
"Tangela is unable to battle"
"Melody, come here" Alex called to her, she stopped right in front of him, "Good job back there... go ahead and take a break" he knelt down and placed his hand on her head, she smiled at him
"I'm calling her back" he said to the ref, she nodded
"Victreebel, come on out" Erika sent out her second pokemon
"Alright Sophia, let's go" Alex called out his Ninetales
"Round two, begin" the ref announced
"Sophia, Flamethrower"
"Dodge it and power up with Swords Dance"
Victreebel jumped out of the path of fire attack, its leaves glowing purple increasing its power
"Don't let it get away!" Alex pointed at the large Grass-type, "Flamethrower"
Sophia opened her mouth and fired another stream of flames at her opponent
"Victreebel, Sludge Bomb" Erika countered
The Flycatcher pokemon opened its mouth and shot a barrage at the incoming fire attack
"Leaf Blade"
"Use Extrasensory!"
Sophia fired a rainbow colored beam from her eyes as Victreebel prepared to strike with its leaves glowing green. The psychic attack enveloped the Grass-type, the force knocking it off balance and sending it flying back several feet
"Leaf Storm!" Erika commanded
Victreebel cried out as light green leaves floated around it, its eyes glowed as it prepared to unleash its fury
"Sophia, Confuse Ray!"
Sophia's eyes began to glow purple. A moment later, a purple beam shot forth and connected with Victreebel. As the purple beam covered it, the Grass-type's eyes began to glow red as it finished charging its move. But as it prepared to release its move, the effects of the Confuse ray began to kick in. Victreebel struggled to maintain its focus and its balance as it fired its move straight into a tree about five feet to the left of the Ninetales
"Flamethrower lets go" Alex smirked as the attack missed
Sophia immediately fired her attack, engulfing the large Grass-type in flames. It screeched as the fire burned its body
"Sludge Bomb"
Although still affected by the confusion, Victreebel opened its mouth, releasing many globs of sludge in every which way
"Energy Ball"
As some of the sludge flew towards Sophia, she countered with her own attack, dissipating the opponents
"Alright, finish it with Flamethrower"
The Ninetales fired one last stream of scorching flames at Victreebel. The Flycatcher pokemon was finally brought down by this final attack
"Victreebel is unable to battle"
"Great job Sophia" Alex smiled, "Just one more" the Ninetales smiled at her trainer
"Not bad, but I'm not finished just yet" Erika said as she recalled her defeated pokemon and reached for her third and final pokeball
"Alright Vileplume, come on out"
"Think you can keep going Sophia?" Alex asked, she turned and nodded confidently, "Alright, lets wrap this up"
"Round three, begin" the ref started the round
"Sophia, Extrasensory"
"Vileplume, Petal Dance"
Both pokemon launched their attacks simultaneously; Vileplume's Petal Dance flew straight through Sophia's psychic attack. Both combatants took the frontal force of the other's attack.
"Sleep Powder"
As its Petal Dance continued, still enveloping the Fire-type, Vileplume added a stream of light blue particles to the swirling vortex of pink flower petals. Sophia suddenly felt her eyes growing heavy with each passing second until she fell onto her side, fast asleep
"Sludge Bomb"
Vileplume shrugged off its confusion and fired a blast of purple sludge globs at its now sleeping opponent. Every last one of them connected and caused damage to the sleeping Fox pokemon
"Come on Sophia, wake up!" Alex called her name, but she didn't wake up
"Solarbeam"
Vileplume pointed its head at the sleeping Fire-type; light began to gather at the center of its massive flower. The more light it gathered, the brighter the center glowed
"Sophia!" Alex called her once again, this time she woke up and got to her feet quickly, "Use Flamethrower, quick!"
"Fire the beam"
As Sophia fired a stream of flames at the Flower pokemon, it unleashed beam at full force. Vileplume's Solarbeam tore through the Flamethrower and headed straight for its target
"Dodge it!!"
The Fox pokemon managed to avoid the full force of the attack, but the shockwaves from the impact hit her hard.
"Petal Dance once more" Erika commanded as she skidded across the battlefield
"Confuse Ray" Alex countered
Vileplume prepared its attack, but was hit by a confusion inducing beam from Sophia. The confused Flower pokemon fired its move at the ceiling as its moved in an almost drunken manner
"Extrasensory"
Vileplume flew backwards onto its back as a cone of rainbow colored psychic energy hit it head on
"Finish it with Flamethrower!!" Alex shouted
The Ninetales jumped and let loose a powerful stream of flames down onto the downed Grass-type. Sophia landed and looked to her opponent, its eyes were loopy. A second later, the ref made her call
"Vileplume is unable to battle, Ninetales wins. The victory goes to the challenger, Alex" the ref announced
"Yes!!" Alex cheered as Sophia ran over to him, "Thanks Sophia" he petted her as she licked his cheek
"Congratulations" Erika approached the trainer, "Please take this as proof of your victory here, the Rainbow badge"
"Thank you Erika" Alex accepted the badge, "You're an amazing trainer, I really enjoyed battling you" he smiled
"Thank you, you're not so bad yourself" she smiled at him, "Good luck with the rest of the Kanto League"
"Good bye, milady" Alex gave a small bow before he and the rest of their group headed for the pokemon center. Erika giggled at his bow and waved as they leftChapter End Notes:Oh My God!! this took forever. I am so very sorry to make you all wait so long. I'm having a bit a situation involving my job and we spent a week getting our old house emptied and we've just about have the new house put together.
I promise the next chapter will not take me this long to post up (this was rediculous
"Yes!" Ashley smiled
"Aw man" Alex frowned
"Sorry, better luck next time" Ben said
"Then it's decided, Ashley will be the first challenger" Erika smiled, "Please follow me"
Erika led them to her gym, which was a large building with four entrances and 6 large red pedals that formed the roof, resembling the top of a Vileplume. As they entered the building, it felt more like they were entering a greenhouse. There were so many different types of trees, flowers, and other plant life all around them
"This place is beautiful" Ashley smiled
"I'll say" Ben agreed, Alex and Melody simply looked around and smiled as they took in the beauty around them
"Thank you" Erika smiled, "I just love plants and flowers"
"Welcome back, my lady" a female voice said
They looked forward to see several girls, two in maid outfits
"Welcome back, Lady Erika" another of the girls said as they all gave a slight bow
"Hello" Erika greeted them with a smile
"Is there anything we can get for you?"
"I have challengers, would you please make sure the battlefield is ready?"
"Of course, my lady"
"Lady Erika?" Alex wore a look of confusion
"They must have a lot of respect for her" Ben leaned in behind Alex
"I guess so" Ashley said
Suddenly, a light appeared from Ashley's waist and a small green pokemon with two red flowers on its head and a dress made of green and yellow leaves appeared.
"Bellossom" it said happily as it looked around at the flowers and plant of the greenhouse
"What's that?" Alex asked, reaching for his pokedex
"Bellossom, the Flower Pokémon and an evolved form of Gloom. When these Pokémon move, their delicate petals rub together, creating a pleasant sound. They are also known for their unique acrobatic dancing abilities. Bellossom are often seen dancing and chanting, resembling cheerleaders, although they're usually not actually cheering for anyone. In particular, Bellossom dances when cloudy weather persists, or when the heavy rainfall season ends and it is drawn out by the warm sunlight."
"Bellossom, what are you doing?" Ashley asked in surprise
The Flower pokemon wandered towards a patch of beautiful red and yellow flower, admiring the color and aroma. Erika smiled and giggled
"We care for so many different types of plants and flower here, this place is perfect for Grass-type pokemon like your Bellossom" Erika said as Bellossom began to dance happily
"I'm sorry, she really loves flowers" Ashley said in a slightly embarrassed tone
"It's alright" Erika smiled, "actually I'm glad to see that she's enjoying herself"
"I'll keep an eye on her while you have your battle, my lady" one of Erika's attendants approached
"Thank you" Ashley said
They eventually arrived at a clearing, where a large battlefield was set up. Several of Erika's attendants were already there, one acting as the referee. As Ashley and Erika took their places on the field and Alex, Melody, and Ben took a seat on the side lines, the rules of the battle were announced,
"This will be a battle between the gym leader, Erika and the challenger, Ashley. Both sides will have the use of three pokemon and the battle will be over when all of one side's pokemon are unable to continue. In addition, only the challenger will be allowed to switch pokemon. Are you ready?"
Both sides nodded and grabbed a pokeball
"Then choose your pokemon"
"Victreebel, let's go" Erika called out her pokemon
Out of Erika's pokeball appeared a large plant like pokemon with two giant leaves on the sides of its long cylindrical body, a leaf on top of a mouth with teeth at the top of its body, and a long brown vine growing out of the top of it
"What the heck?" Alex reached for his pokedex
"Victreebel, the Flycatcher Pokémon and the evolved form of Weepinbell. Victreebel can be found in small groups and are highly territorial. At the depths of the most dangerous jungles Victreebel live in huge colonies, and few Pokémon enter their territory and live to tell the tale. Victreebel horde food, usually small birds and rodents, and collect Leaf Stones to perform evolution rituals at night to help Weepinbell become more Victreebel. It uses an incredibly sweet-smelling honey to attract bugs, and sometimes larger prey, ranging from small rodents to creatures almost as large as themselves. The prey is then swallowed whole and is slowly digested by powerful acids strong enough to melt steel"
"Never seen one of those before" Alex said as he closed his pokedex and placed it in his lap
"Don't let its looks fool you" Ben said, "Those things are actually pretty tough"
Suddenly, a light erupted from Alex's belt as Johnny appeared in front of him
"Johnny, what are you doing?" Alex asked
"I think the little guy wants to watch" Ben replied
Johnny nodded and waved his little arms happily. Alex smiled and picked him up
"Well, alright" Alex placed Johnny in his lap, "I do want to get him used to battles so I guess this would be good for him"
"Alright Pidgoet, let's do this" Ashley threw her pokeball
Out of the light, a large bird appeared. Brown feathers covered the top, while cream colored feathers covered its underside. A crest of red and yellow stretched along its back
"Wow, it's beautiful" Ben remarked
"Whoa, Pidgeot?" Alex pointed his pokedex at it
"Pidgeot, the Bird Pokémon and the evolved form of Pidgeotto. Pidgeot is a powerful flier, capable of creating whirlwinds strong enough to bend trees. At maximum velocity it can reach speeds of Mach 2 if it accelerates for long enough, which is incredibly rare. It has keen eyes that allow it to see Magikarp from a distance of 3300 feet in the air. Pidgeot may also spread its wings widely to intimidate enemies."
"If we're going just by type, Ashley's Pidgeot has the advantage over Victreebel" Ben looked to Alex
"This is gonna be good" Alex smiled as he closed his pokedex
"Let the battle begin!" the referee announced
"Pidgeot, Quick Attack" Ashley commanded
"Victreebel, power up with Swords Dance" Erika replied
Victreebel's leaves began to glow with a purple tint as it commenced with an odd dance as Pidgeot speed towards its opponent at blinding speeds. Alex was amazed at how fast Pidgeot was moving. But as the Bird pokemon collide with its opponent, Victreebel didn't seem too bothered by the hit. It simply shook its body and stood ready for battle.
"Leaf Blade" Erika pointed at the still airborne Flying type.
Victreebel's leaves glowed bright green as it launched itself at its opponent.
"That thing can jump?!" Alex said surprised at the Grass types maneuver.
"Blow it away with Gust" Ashley urgently responded.
Pidgoet immediately spread its wings and began flapping them vigorously, producing a powerful blast of wind that blew Victreebel back towards its trainer. The Grass-type hit the ground hard but managed to remain upright as it slid backwards, stopping just three feet from Erika.
"Now Aerial Ace"
Victreebel gazed up at the Bird pokemon as it sped towards it at fast speed, white streaks coming off its body.
"Sludge Bomb" Erika commanded.
Victreebel opened its mouth and launched a barrage of purple globs of sludge at its airborne opponent. Pidgeot managed to avoid the full front of the attack and connected with its own attack.
"Leaf Storm"
Victreebel's body began to glow light green as leaves seemed to materialize around it. As Pidgeot flew away from its opponent, Victreebel unleashed a powerful cyclone of light green leaves that enveloped the Bird Pokemon. The force from the attack spun the pokemon violently and was spiraling towards one of the massive trees that surrounded the battlefield
"Use Quick Attack to get outta there!" Ashley shouted.
Summoning every ounce of strength it could, Pidgeot spread its wings and forced its way out of the vortex, a white streak of energy streamed off of its wings and tail as it flew high above the battlefield.
"Now, Brave Bird!!"
Pidgeot folded its wings inwards and its body became coated in flames as it dove towards its target. Pidgeot spread its wings, the flames that coated its body suddenly turned into a shining blue aura.
"Sludge Bomb!"
Pidgeot connected with its attack before Victreebel could launch its attack. The two pokemon collided as a large explosion enveloped them both. Pidgeot flew out of the smoke and hovered above the center of the battlefield, wincing as blue sparks covered its body.
"What's Brave Bird?" Alex asked
"It's a really powerful Flying-type move" Ben explained, "But it's a risky move"
"Huh, what do you mean?"
"It inflicts recoil damage onto the user... use it too much and it can be dangerous"
"Wow..."
"There are other moves that are similar to Brave Bird... such as Flare Blitz, Volt Tackle, Double Edge, and Wood Hammer"
"Victeebel is unable to battle" the ref announced, "Pidgeot wins"
"Great Job" Ashley smiled as Erika recalled her pokemon to its pokeball.
"Not bad... but that was just the start" Erika smirked as she prepared to call on her second pokemon.
"Tangela, come on out"
Out of the light of the pokeball, Erika's pokemon appeared. It looked like a tangled ball of vines with two red feet and two eyes in the center of the tangled vines that from its body. Alex looked at this creature oddly.
"Tangela, the Vine Pokemon. Tangela is covered with thick blue vines that obscure its face so only its eyes can be seen. It also has a pair of red boot-like feet. Tangela's vines never stop growing and are easily replaced if lost or damaged. Tangela can ensnare and entangle its foes with its vines. It tangles any moving thing with its vines. Their subtle shaking is ticklish if you get ensnared."
"Pidgeot, can you keep going?" Ashley asked, her pokemon looked back and nodded.
"Alright, round two... begin" the ref began the fight.
"Tangela, Stun Spore"
A stream of orange particles flew from Tangela's face.
"Pidgeot, blow it away" Ashley commanded.
Pidgeot slammed its wings vigorously, blowing the cloud of paralyzing particles away.
"Now, Quick Attrack"
The Flying-type flew at its opponent at high speeds.
"Tangela, grab it!"
Tangela's vines flew towards the Bird pokemon. Pidgeot dodged the first few but the Vine pokemon's vines snared the Flying-type at the joints of its wings, preventing it from escaping. Ashley was shocked that her pokemon was caught.
"Shockwave!"
Electricity surrounded Tangela's body and traveled up its vines, delivering a powerful shock to the trapped Flying-type.
"Finish it"
Tangela slammed Pidgeot into the battlefield with force. The ref made her call.
"Pidgeot is unable to battle, Tangela wins"
"Whoa! I didn't know that Grass-types could use Electric attacks?!" Alex said in shock.
"Thanks Pidgeot, now get some rest" Ashley recalled her pokemon.
"Poor Pidgeot" Alex said as it disappeared into its pokeball.
"Don't worry, she'll be alright" Ashley said as she reached for her second pokeball, "Arcanine, let's go!"
"Fire-type... that's a good choice" Ben said as Arcanine stood ready to fight.
"Round three, begin"
"Tangela, Stun Spore"
"Arcanine, counter with Flamethrower"
Arcanine's fire attack burned Tangela's cloud instantly, the Vine pokemon quickly jumped out of the path of the flames. Ashley and Arcanine smirked.
"Tangela, Power Whip" Erika commanded
The Vine pokemon's vines began to glow pink as they flew towards the large dog pokemon
"Power Whip?" Alex looked to Ben
"It's a powerful Grass-type move" Ben answered
"Any downsides to it?"
"None that comes to mind"
"Arcanine, Extreme Speed!" Ashley commanded
Arcanine immediately charged at an unbelievable speed, dodging Tangela's vines with such ease. Tangela flinched as Arcanine got closer and slammed into it fast and hard
"Was that like Quick Attack?" Alex asked
"Actually yes, Extreme Speed is basically a much stronger version of Quick Attack" Ben answered
"Shockwave"
"Flamethrower!"
Both pokemon launched their attacks simultaneously, sparks and embers flew as they collided and soon afterward, exploded violently
"Extreme Speed"
Arcanine charged, erupting out of the smoke at the opposing Grass-type.
"Stun Spore!!"
Tangela let loose another cloud of paralyzing dust into the air, straight into the incoming Fire-type's path.
"Dodge it!!"
Arcanine just managed to make a sharp turn away from the Stun Spore.
"Flamethrower!" Ashley shouted
The Fire-type opened his mouth and unleashed a blazing stream of flames, causing serious damage to the Vine pokemon.
"Flare Blitz!!"
Arcanine's body suddenly became covered in red and orange flames. A split second later, he flew straight at Tangela. The Grass-type turned into a scorching ball of fire as the Fire-type's attack scored a direct hit.
"Flamethrower, one more time"
Tangela was hit with one final flaming attack before hitting one of the many trees that surrounding the battlefield. Arcanine winced from the recoil effect of his Flare Blitz.
"Tangela is unable to battle"
"Good job" Arcanine looked back to see Ashley smiling at him, "Can you keep going?" the Fire-type nodded and turned back towards the opposing trainer
"Thank you Tangela" Erika smiled as she recalled her pokemon and reached for her third and final pokeball, "Vileplume, come on out"
"Vileplume, the Flower Pokemon and an evolved form of Gloom. Vileplume scatters toxic spores and releases noxious gases. Its toxic pollen sometimes triggers atrocious allergy attacks. It also has the world's largest petals which it uses to attract prey. The larger its petals, the more pollen it scatters."
"Round four, begin"
"Vileplume, Sludge Bomb" Erika commanded
"Arcanine, Flamethrower" Ashley countered
Both pokemon launched their attacks simultaneously, exploding as the collided at the very center of the battlefield
"Looks like a draw" Alex was amazed at the power and force behind their attacks
"Use Petal Dance"
Vileplume pointed the large flower on its head towards the opposing Fire-type and unleashed a spiraling twister of pink flower petals.
"Dodge it"
Arcanine jumped out of the path of Vileplume's attack. But as he landed, the Flower pokemon turned his head and chased after the large fire dog
"Watch out!" Ashley shouted
Acranine continued to dodge the Petal Dance, but Vileplume wouldn't give up the chase. Finally, Vileplume's attack ceased and the Grass-type seemed confused or disoriented
"What's wrong with Vileplume?" Alex asked
"Petal Dance confuses the user after it's finished" Ben answered as Vileplume seemed to have difficulty standing straight
"Thunder Fang"
Arcanine ran towards the Flower pokemon, his fangs covered with electricity
"Sleep Powder!" Erika commanded
Despite its confusion, Vileplume released a cloud of light blue particles that flew straight into the Fire-type's sensitive nose. Arcanine instantly felt drowsy and a moment later, tripped and slid across the battlefield stopping just in front of Vileplume, fast asleep. At the same time, the confusion that was afflicting Vileplume a moment ago faded
"Sludge Bomb" Erika smirked
Vileplume fired a barrage of purple sludge at point blank range. The force sent Arcanine sliding across the field, still completely out of it
"Arcanine, you've gotta wake up!"
"Sludge Bomb, once more"
Arcanine took more damage from another barrage of sludge globs. The sleeping pokemon stopped not far from his trainer
"Now, Solarbeam!"
Vileplume pointed its head at its sleeping opponent as sunlight began to gather at the center of its large flower. The more light it absorbed, the brighter it began to glow
"Fire the beam!"
At Erika's command, the Flower pokemon unleashed a massive beam at its still sleeping opponent
"Arcanine, wake up!!" Ashley shouted
Vileplume's beam exploded on contact. But as the smoke cleared, Arcanine stood wide awake, looking almost unscathed from the attack
"What?" Erika was shocked
"Yes" Alex cheered
"He made it" Ashley said with relief
"Looks like he woke up just in time" Ben said as the Fire-type awaited his trainer's command
"Alright, Flamethrower" Ashley pointed at the Grass pokemon
"Sludge Bomb"
"Flare Blitz!"
As the poison and fire attacks collided once again, Arcanine erupted from the smoke, his body covered in flames. Vileplume cried out as the flames from Acranine's attack scorched it
"Thunder Fang"
Arcanine's teeth sparked with electricity and clamped down on a still blazing Vileplume. The combination of fire and electricity caused the burning Grass-type to explode. Ashley and Erika watched as Arcanine slid backwards, smoke still surrounded Erika's pokemon. When the smoke finally settled, the ref made her call
"Vileplume is unable to battle, Arcanine wins. The victory goes to the challenger, Ashley"
"Yes, we won" Ashley smiled as she ran over to her clearly exhausted pokemon, "Good boy, thank you" she hugged and gently petted her pokemon
"She did it" Alex stood up, holding Johnny in his arms
"Arcanine really hung in there" Ben remarked, "She's obviously raised him really well"
"Congratulations, here's the proof you won here... the Rainbow Badge" Erika presented Ashley with her prize
"Way to go Ashley" Alex said as he, Ben and Melody walked up
"Thanks you guys and thank you Arcanine" she smiled, "who's my good boy?" Ashley scratched her pokemon and kissed his head before recalling him to his pokeball for some much needed rest
"I guess I'm next" Alex looked to Erika
"Actually, I need some time to prepare" Erika turned her attention towards him, "My pokemon are exhausted and need to get their energy back"
"Alright... when should I come back?"
"I'll send one of my attendants to find you get you when my pokemon and I are ready" the gym leader answered
"We'll be at the pokemon center" Alex said as they prepared to leave, "See you later"
Back at the pokemon center, Ashley handed her pokemon over to Nurse Joy for some much needed recovery. Ben was at the center's battle area helping Alex prepare for his coming battle. The two had been going at it, rotating between their pokemon for the past several hours. Ashley walked outside to check on their progress, picking Johnny up as she sat down on a bench
"Alright Sophia, Flamethrower"
"Golduck, Ice Beam!"
Sophia fired a stream of flames, while Ben's newly evolved Golduck countered with a frigid light blue beam
"Sophia, Energy Ball"
The crest of hair on top of her head glowed green as a ball of green energy formed in her mouth
"Golduck, Shadow Claw"
An aura of black and purple energy surrounded both of Golduck's webbed hands, taking the shape of long, sharp claws. The Water-type charged as its opponent fired her attack. Golduck gazed intensely as Sophia's attack flew closer and closer until finally, just at the last second, Golduck raised his energized claws and sliced straight through the Energy Ball. Both Alex and Sophia were stunned at the feat.
"One more time, Shadow Claw"
"Use Extrasensory"
Golduck charged his webbed hands with shadow energy once again as Sophia's gleaming red eyes began to glow golden. As the Water-type finished and started to close the distance between him and Sophia, the Fire-type fired a rainbow colored beam of light from her eyes, enveloping the Duck pokemon in a cone of psychic energy. As the attack enveloped the Water-type, Golduck slid backwards, struggling to maintain his footing as the shadow energy surrounding his hands dissipated.
"Great job Sophia" Alex smiled as she ran over to him, "Good girl"
Alex knelt down, scratching her behind her ear and the side of her face. Sophia began to lean into his hands
"She's so much more confident now" he thought as the Ninetales licked his cheek
"Alright, time to switch" Ben said
"Alright Melody, you're up" Alex turned around, Melody stepped onto the battlefield as Sophia took her place on the sideline
"Ok Electabuzz, let's go"
Electabuzz took his place on the battlefield, opposite of Melody
"Melody, Psychic"
"Electabuzz, Protect"
The Electric-type crossed his arms in front of him, forming his barrier as Melody's attack sped towards him. Electrabuzz's shield held strong as the Psychic attack collided with it
"Thunder Punch"
Electabuzz clenched his fist as it burst and crackled with electricity
"Magical Leaf"
Melody counter with a flurry of light green leaves. The opposing Electric-type forced his way through the flurry, bringing his fist up, ready to strike.
"Dodge it"
Although she managed to avoid a direct hit from the Thunder Punch as it hit the battlefield, the force caused rocks and sparks of electricity to shoot out from the point of impact, causing damage to the Psychic-type
"Thunderbolt!" both trainers commanded
Electabuzz's antenna sparked violently as Melody flew backwards from the Thunder Punch, her hand sparking with electricity as well. Both pokemon fired as she hit the ground, large sparks flew in every direction as the two electric attacks collided
"Psychic!"
A blast of light blue psychic energy flew at Electabuzz, connecting in the center of his body. The Electric pokemon slid backwards, losing his footing and slamming his back on the battlefield.
"Brick Break!" Ben commanded as his pokemon got to his feet
Electabuzz ran at Melody, his right hand sparked with white energy as he prepared to karate chop his opponent
"Protect!" Alex called
Melody's eyes light up slightly as her shield formed around her. Electabuzz's hand bounced off the Emotion pokemon's barrier
"Psychic!"
As her shield faded, Melody countered with a powerful Psychic blast. Electabuzz took the full force of the attack and flew across the battlefield, landing four feet away from his trainer
"Thunderbolt!"
The Electric pokemon fired another blast of electricity at the Emotion pokemon
"Dodge it"
Melody jumped out of the path of the bolt of electricity. Alex covered his eyes as the blast exploded near his side of the field
"Psychic!"
Melody landed and launched another blast of psychic energy at her opponent
"Dodge it, then Thunder Punch"
Electabuzz evaded the attack and clenched his fist, electricity sparked violently around his fist
"Thunderbolt!" Alex shouted
The Electric pokemon charged the Psychic-type as she fired a bolt of electricity directly in his path. Electabuzz dodged and punched Melody at full force, sending her hurtling towards a tree
"Melody!!"
Alex ran into her path and caught her in his arms. As he caught her, he tripped and fell, hitting his back on the tree. Ben, Ashley, and Sophia quickly ran over to them
"Alex!" Melody looked at him, wincing in pain
"Melody, you alright?" Alex opened his eyes and looked at his childhood friend
"I'm alright..." she answered
"I'm glad" he smiled, Melody blushed slightly
"Are you alright?" Ben helped him up
"I'm ok" Alex said as he got to his feet
Electabuzz and Sophia walked up to Melody and spoke to her in their native tongue
"Are you alright?" Sophia asked
"I'm fine" she replied
"Sorry about that last one..." Electabuzz apologized, "I guess I got carried away... I'm sorry" he scratched the back of his head as he spoke
"It's alright" Melody smiled at the Electric pokemon
"You could have really hurt yourself back there Alex" Ashley said as Alex stretched and popped his back
"What can I say?" Alex just looked at her, "She's my best friend..."
"I've never met a trainer like you before..." Ashley looked at him
"I'll take that as a compliment" Alex smiled at her, "Come on Melody, let's go see Nurse Joy" he, Melody, and Sophia walked into the pokemon center
"I've never seen such dedication in a trainer before..." Ashley was amazed at how far he was willing to go for his pokemon
"I've said it before and I will say it again... the trust between him and his pokemon is truly something to behold" Ben walked up next to Ashley
"Even so... I've never met anyone who is so close to their pokemon before"
"I guess that's just the way he operates... he seems like the type of person who when he develops a friendship with someone, it's a very close one" Ashley just smiled in amazement as they saw Alex hand Joy his pokemon to be treated
"I guess he knows just how valuable friendships truly are..."
"Pardon me" a voice said from behind
"Here you are, I'm all finished treating your pokemon" Joy handed Alex back his pokeballs as Melody jumped down
"Thanks Nurse Joy"
"Good luck with your battle"
"Thanks" he smiled
"Hey Alex" Ben called
"Huh?" he and Melody turned to see one of Erika's attendants standing behind Ben and Ashley
"Excuse me; Lady Erika is ready for you"
"Alright, guess it's our turn"
As they headed back towards the gym, Alex tapped Erika's attendant
"Hey can I ask you something?"
"Yes?"
"Pardon me for asking, but why do you call her Lady Erika?" Alex asked, "Is she a princess or something?"
"Yes, Lady Erika is a princess and is a much respected part of this city" she answered him, "Not only is she the leader of the Celadon City gym, she also teaches at the local university, head of the Archery club, and teaches the art of flower arrangement and creating beautiful perfumes"
"Wow..." Alex said in amazement
"She is a truly wonderful person and all of us are happy to serve her" the attendant smiled
"No wonder she's so well respected..." Ben commented
"I just can't believe that she's really a princess..." Alex said, "I've never met a real princess before"
"Yeah and you bumped into her earlier" Ashley smirked
"You did what?" the attendant looked back at him
"It was an accident, I wasn't paying attention and I walked into her" he explained in an embarrassed tone, "I'm sorry" he started to get worried about bumping into a real princess, worried he might get into some serious trouble now
"You're just lucky that Lady Erika didn't get hurt" the attendant glared at him
"Sorry" Alex flinched as she glared at him; she looked like she'd kill him if Erika had really gotten hurt
As they finally returned to the gym, Alex, Ben, Ashley, and Melody were led to the battlefield. Erika and the rest of her maids and attendants were waiting for them.
"Welcome back" Erika greeted them with a smile, "Are you ready?"
"I'm ready when you are" Alex took his place on the battlefield as Ben and Ashley sat on the sidelines
"The battle between Erika, the gym leader, and Alex, the challenger, is about to begin. Both sides will have the use of three pokemon and the battle will be over when all three of one side's pokemon are unable to continue. In addition, only the challenger will be allowed to substitute their pokemon during this battle" the ref announced, "Choose your pokemon"
"Tangela, come on out" Erika threw her pokeball, the ball opened and her pokemon appeared
"Alright Melody, let's go" Alex looked at her, she nodded and took her place on the field
"Are you ready?" both trainers nodded, "Let the battle begin!"
"Melody, Psychic" Alex commanded
"Tangela, Hidden Power"
As Melody charged her attack, Tangela's body began to glow with light as many small white balls of energy began to form all around it. A second later, both fired their respective attacks and collided with evenly matched power
"Tangela, Shockwave"
"Counter with Thnderbolt"
Both combatants fired their electric attacks; Melody's attack began to push back on Tangela's before enveloping it
"Melody, Psychic one more time"
"Tangela, dodge it then use Power Whip!"
Tangela managed to evade her blast and threw two powerful vines at opposing Psychic-type
"Watch out!"
Melody avoided the first attack, but was thrown halfway across the battlefield by a swing from the second vine
"Psychic!"
Melody's eyes began to glow light blue as she landed. A moment later, she fired two beams of psychic energy at the Vine pokemon, Tangela disappeared in a psychic explosion
"Hidden Power!"
Suddenly, a barrage of small white balls burst from the smoke and flew straight at the Emotion pokemon
"Dodge it!"
"Tangela, grab her!"
As Melody dodged the barrage of Hidden Power, two vines wrapped around her midsection
"Shockwave!!"
Tangela's electric attack traveled down its vines and headed for the trapped Psychic-type
"Protect!!" Alex shouted
Although the vines still gripped her, Melody's barrier appeared around her and succeeded in stopping the electricity from reaching her
"Stun Spore" Erika commanded as the barrier faded
As her barrier faded, Tangela sent a cloud of orange particles that completely enveloped the Emotion pokemon. Sparks formed around her, making it difficult to move
"Alright, use Power Whip"
But nothing happened... both Erika and Alex looked over at Tangela and were surprised to see sparks all around its body, just like Melody. Tangela was paralyzed and unable to move
"Why does Tangela look paralyzed?" Ashley asked
"Looks like Melody's ability is Synchronize" Ben remarked
"Synchronize?" Alex looked back at Ben
"It's an ability that allows her to transfer a status ailment like Burn, Poison, or Paralysis to the opponent" he explained
"Melody use Psychic, Max Power!!"
Fighting through the paralysis, the Psychic-type's entire body began glow light blue as her psychic energy built up. Unleashing a massive blast, Tangela was launched clear across the battlefield straight into a large tree, finally freeing Melody from its vines
"Tangela is unable to battle"
"Melody, come here" Alex called to her, she stopped right in front of him, "Good job back there... go ahead and take a break" he knelt down and placed his hand on her head, she smiled at him
"I'm calling her back" he said to the ref, she nodded
"Victreebel, come on out" Erika sent out her second pokemon
"Alright Sophia, let's go" Alex called out his Ninetales
"Round two, begin" the ref announced
"Sophia, Flamethrower"
"Dodge it and power up with Swords Dance"
Victreebel jumped out of the path of fire attack, its leaves glowing purple increasing its power
"Don't let it get away!" Alex pointed at the large Grass-type, "Flamethrower"
Sophia opened her mouth and fired another stream of flames at her opponent
"Victreebel, Sludge Bomb" Erika countered
The Flycatcher pokemon opened its mouth and shot a barrage at the incoming fire attack
"Leaf Blade"
"Use Extrasensory!"
Sophia fired a rainbow colored beam from her eyes as Victreebel prepared to strike with its leaves glowing green. The psychic attack enveloped the Grass-type, the force knocking it off balance and sending it flying back several feet
"Leaf Storm!" Erika commanded
Victreebel cried out as light green leaves floated around it, its eyes glowed as it prepared to unleash its fury
"Sophia, Confuse Ray!"
Sophia's eyes began to glow purple. A moment later, a purple beam shot forth and connected with Victreebel. As the purple beam covered it, the Grass-type's eyes began to glow red as it finished charging its move. But as it prepared to release its move, the effects of the Confuse ray began to kick in. Victreebel struggled to maintain its focus and its balance as it fired its move straight into a tree about five feet to the left of the Ninetales
"Flamethrower lets go" Alex smirked as the attack missed
Sophia immediately fired her attack, engulfing the large Grass-type in flames. It screeched as the fire burned its body
"Sludge Bomb"
Although still affected by the confusion, Victreebel opened its mouth, releasing many globs of sludge in every which way
"Energy Ball"
As some of the sludge flew towards Sophia, she countered with her own attack, dissipating the opponents
"Alright, finish it with Flamethrower"
The Ninetales fired one last stream of scorching flames at Victreebel. The Flycatcher pokemon was finally brought down by this final attack
"Victreebel is unable to battle"
"Great job Sophia" Alex smiled, "Just one more" the Ninetales smiled at her trainer
"Not bad, but I'm not finished just yet" Erika said as she recalled her defeated pokemon and reached for her third and final pokeball
"Alright Vileplume, come on out"
"Think you can keep going Sophia?" Alex asked, she turned and nodded confidently, "Alright, lets wrap this up"
"Round three, begin" the ref started the round
"Sophia, Extrasensory"
"Vileplume, Petal Dance"
Both pokemon launched their attacks simultaneously; Vileplume's Petal Dance flew straight through Sophia's psychic attack. Both combatants took the frontal force of the other's attack.
"Sleep Powder"
As its Petal Dance continued, still enveloping the Fire-type, Vileplume added a stream of light blue particles to the swirling vortex of pink flower petals. Sophia suddenly felt her eyes growing heavy with each passing second until she fell onto her side, fast asleep
"Sludge Bomb"
Vileplume shrugged off its confusion and fired a blast of purple sludge globs at its now sleeping opponent. Every last one of them connected and caused damage to the sleeping Fox pokemon
"Come on Sophia, wake up!" Alex called her name, but she didn't wake up
"Solarbeam"
Vileplume pointed its head at the sleeping Fire-type; light began to gather at the center of its massive flower. The more light it gathered, the brighter the center glowed
"Sophia!" Alex called her once again, this time she woke up and got to her feet quickly, "Use Flamethrower, quick!"
"Fire the beam"
As Sophia fired a stream of flames at the Flower pokemon, it unleashed beam at full force. Vileplume's Solarbeam tore through the Flamethrower and headed straight for its target
"Dodge it!!"
The Fox pokemon managed to avoid the full force of the attack, but the shockwaves from the impact hit her hard.
"Petal Dance once more" Erika commanded as she skidded across the battlefield
"Confuse Ray" Alex countered
Vileplume prepared its attack, but was hit by a confusion inducing beam from Sophia. The confused Flower pokemon fired its move at the ceiling as its moved in an almost drunken manner
"Extrasensory"
Vileplume flew backwards onto its back as a cone of rainbow colored psychic energy hit it head on
"Finish it with Flamethrower!!" Alex shouted
The Ninetales jumped and let loose a powerful stream of flames down onto the downed Grass-type. Sophia landed and looked to her opponent, its eyes were loopy. A second later, the ref made her call
"Vileplume is unable to battle, Ninetales wins. The victory goes to the challenger, Alex" the ref announced
"Yes!!" Alex cheered as Sophia ran over to him, "Thanks Sophia" he petted her as she licked his cheek
"Congratulations" Erika approached the trainer, "Please take this as proof of your victory here, the Rainbow badge"
"Thank you Erika" Alex accepted the badge, "You're an amazing trainer, I really enjoyed battling you" he smiled
"Thank you, you're not so bad yourself" she smiled at him, "Good luck with the rest of the Kanto League"
"Good bye, milady" Alex gave a small bow before he and the rest of their group headed for the pokemon center. Erika giggled at his bow and waved as they leftChapter End Notes:Oh My God!! this took forever. I am so very sorry to make you all wait so long. I'm having a bit a situation involving my job and we spent a week getting our old house emptied and we've just about have the new house put together.
I promise the next chapter will not take me this long to post up (this was rediculous