Battlegrounds : A Pokémon Role-Play { Closed } - Day Two: On the Road to Jade Forest

[NeoAC]

"So... I take it you plan on having Nina take on the Gym?"

"Well yeah," Robyn answered. "Nina's going to go in there and kick all kinds of ass."

"Petttipetttilil!" Nina punctuated this boast with the raise of a nub.

"So I don't think she's going to need much of a warmup, but the battle will be good for a couple others in the team, so let's do this!"

Alix let Stana out of her Ball. The Dark-type licked her fangs and looked up at Alix as if she was hoping for more food. "Chee-yen?"

"Hey now, you got the lion's share of the food, Stana. You don't get any more. Besides, we're battling Robyn... please focus," Alix instructed.

"Yen!" Stana thumped her tail on the ground before standing and turning to face Robyn.

"All right then," Robyn fished one of her balls out of the bag. "Go at it, Sauza!"

Once released from the ball, Sauza stood sentry in front of her trainer, blinking but not moving. "Metapod."

"See if you can crack this one, Alix!"

"Stana, Metapod can't normally move under its own power. Knock it over with a Tackle!" Alix commanded. Stana promptly jumped up and bounded over to the Bug Pokémon, trying for a basic headbutt. It connected with the crown of Sauza's body, hitting it back towards it's trainer.

"Sauza, don't take that! Harden up to stand up to it next time!" A faint aura surrounded Sauza as it's shell grew tougher.

"Harden, eh? Shouldn't be a problem! Stana, show us a Howl!" Stana jumped back from Sauza and tried a series of progressively loud growls... that ended in a particularly audible burp, startling herself.

Alix burst out laughing. "Come on, Stana... can't be thinking about food!"

Robyn had to stifle a giggle as the Howl ended up more silly than intimidating, but her competitive side wouldn't let her dwell on it for too long. "Sauza now! Use Bug Bite!" I hope it can still use Bug Bite...

The Metapod hopped forward, the white marks appearing under neath the diamond in the front of the carapice as it made a slow charge towards the Dark-type.

"You could probably outmaneuver her, Stana. Use a Tackle from behind," Alix suggested, guessing that the Metapod's slow forward movement extended to its turning speed as well. Stana began running in a circle around her opponent.

Sauza saw the move coming and tried to rotate, but Stana was too quick. It nailed Bug-type with a Tackle, but the Harden had helped to allow Sauza to hold her ground. With her opponent in close, she bit down, connecting on the Poochyena with its...fangs? It was hard to tell what was doing the damage.

"Chee!" Stana whimpered as Sauza did... something. A bite presumably, judging by the command from Robyn. It was understandable, given the type advantage Bug moves had.

"Stana, come back! That's enough for now." Stana hurried back to Alix's side, whining a little and showing her where Sauza had bitten down. Alix leaned down to give her a small scratch behind the ear before returning her to her Ball.

"Time for someone else to take the floor, I think," she noted. "Tor chic tor?" Jen piped up, accompanying it with a light poke.

"Sorry, Jen, but Gideon's the one who needs the battling experience more," Alix explained, sending out the Oshawott in question. "Oshawo!" The Water-type took up a fighting stance, quickly recognising the situation as a fight.

"Gideon, no time to wait around. Get stuck in with a Water Gun!"

"Hold steady, Sauza!" Robyn tried to shout encouragement, but it wasn't going to help as the torrent that was unleashed from Gideon's mouth blasted Sauza off it's spot, until it rested in a puddle at it's trainer's feet.

"Meta......pod...."

"Hey, it's OK Sauza, you did good. Take a break." Robyn produced Sauza's ball and returned her to the safety inside.

"Lil! Petttilil lil!" Nina wanted to take a shot at taking on this new challenger, or at the very least get some free water. She was squirming around to get in this battle.

"Nina, no. This isn't your fight. You're taking on the gym today," Robyn tried to calm her starter down and somewhat succeeded, but Nina was pouting as best she could. The trainer dug into her pocket for another Pokeball. "Natalie, time to fly!"

The Swablu was not as willing to heed her trainer's orders, as Natalie remained rooted on the earth by the Pokemon Center. "Bluuuueeeuuuuu!"

Robyn had to sigh as she emerged with wings tucked in. Why is she still grounding herself?

Now was the time to start learning some tactics, Alix reasoned. "Start with another Water Gun, Gideon, then hit her with a Tackle while she's shaking it off."

"Osha!" The little Water-type unleashed another spray. Alix was impressed by how much water he could hold.

"Natalie, take off!" Robyn shouted for the Flying type to live up to her type, but there was no such uplifting actions as Natalie took a full shot from Gideon's Water Gun. More concerned with cleaning itself than defending, Natalie did spread her wings, filling Robyn with a bit of hope. "Yes! Fly Natalie!"

That optimistic bubble was quickly deflated as Natalie merely shook the water off the cotton, just as Alix predicted. By the time the Swablu was satisfied with the state of herself, Gideon was on her slamming into the body, sending Natalie flying into the dirt.

Natalie righted herself, but again cleanliness took precedence as she attempted to shake the dust off her wings. "Bluuuuuuuuu...."

Robyn was getting a little heated. "Damn it, Natalie! It's not the time for that! Get in the air already!"

Natalie looked back at her, a bit miffed as well. "Blublu!" She went back to cleaning.

Robyn let out a groan of disgust. "Come on! Clean later! I need you to Peck that Oshawott!"

The Swablu finally seemed satisfied with it's look and folded it's wings back up, hopping towards the one who caused it to become dirty.

With his scalchop in one paw, Gideon closed the distance and promptly got an earful of beak. He bared the two pointed teeth in his mouth and retaliated, hitting Natalie with another Tackle. He seemed to be knocking her about a little too easily... probably because of the difference in weight between the two combatants. Still, it was worth bringing up.

"Gideon, hang on a moment," Alix addressed her Pokémon before looking up to Robyn, a little concerned about her own team member's lack of flight. "Natalie doesn't seem the battling type... are you sure she's up for it? I mean... she doesn't really look all that invested in the idea. I'm just guessing, though."

"She has to learn! That's the fucking point!" Robyn was getting frustrated with the way this battle was breaking down. "That's what trainers do! They get their Pokemon to live up to what they are supposed to do! But I can't do that if they won't even try to do it!" I had to learn that the fucking hard way already!

By this point, Natalie had hopped back to her trainer. The last Tackle had done some damage that wasn't going to come off by ruffling cotton. "Bluuuuuuuu? Bluuuuueeeeuuuuu....." It almost sounded like an apology, and the look in her eyes confirmed it.

Robyn looked down and sighed, the anger subsiding. "Just, let's just call it. Think we know how this one's going to end anyway." The trainer bent down as best she could, putting Nina on the ground and getting a squeal from the Grass-type. "Come on Natalie. Let's go back to the Center." She held out her hand. "You can ride up top for going into battle like that."

"Bluuuuubluuuuu!" Natalie perked up with this prospect and hopped onto Robyn's arm, making her way up top in quick succession before perching in the messy ponytail that Robyn's hair had settled in.

Satisfied that Natalie was happy, Robyn picked Nina back up. "Alix, let's just head to the center. I think that's enough battling for today."

"Fair enough. Best not to battle when tempers are running high," Alix agreed. "You did well, Gideon. But we'll see if it paid off in the Gym tomorrow."

"Oshawo?"

"Well, we can't go tonight. You and Stana need to rest up before we take on Barrett," she explained. Gideon made a face, but didn't protest further, instead taking up a spot on Alix's other side. Jen chirruped but seemed comfortable with having the Water-type around.

Robyn followed behind the victorious Alix, Nina still squirming around in the presence of a Pokemon she knew she could beat and another she probably could in her little bulb mind. The trainer's head bent slightly down in disappointment on the way that the battle took place. As they walked however, in the orange rimmed shadows of the setting sun there was an extra bit of real estate covered by the shade of Robyn's head. Along with the swaying of her hair, a couple of extra shapes jutted out from the bump on top. Robyn didn't have to look up to know what was causing it. Maybe she is trying. Maybe she just needs one final push.

 

[SkyeNeko]

Eurydice examined her Arena badge in the dying light. It wasn't pretty, like the Kanto badges. Ponyta, the only pokemon she hadn't used, and subsequently, the only one that she hadn't left with the Nurse. Ponyta tilted her head, observing the small piece of metal silently. She couldn't claim to know what it was, or what it meant, or what made it different from any other colorful bits of things she saw around, but it obviously meant something, at least to Eurydice.

Eurydice absentmindedly took a bite of her burger. She should email her aunt. Tell her that she had landed safe in Gensia. That she had gotten her first badge there. She looked at Ponyta for some sort of confirmation, but the pokemon just snorted and shook out her fiery mane. Eurydice flipped open her Transceiver. The screen lit up in response.

Hey, just checking in, how are you doing?

DELETE

Guess what I just won!

DELETE

Good evening Auntie Mimi. Ponyta and I arrived in Gensia safe and sound this morning. I'm sorry I didn't contact you know sooner. We've already had such an adventure, and it's only day one. I've already assembled a small team of pokemon for myself besides Ponyta: a Budew, a Ralts, a Shinx, and a Ducklett. Attached are their various pokedex entries, in case you didn't access them already, along with actual pictures of each. I believe they are all excellent, healthy, specimens, and I should have no problems in raising them.

She paused for a minute to pat Ponyta's muzzle.

It is thanks to their help and perseverance that [s]I have[/s] we have earned our first gym badge.

How is Uncle, and Agua, and Bo? I already miss you all, and I can't wait to come back home and tell you all of my stories in person.

I'm getting used to being on my own, but I'm not really alone. I have several other trainers to keep me company on my travels, and a few friends to make sure I'm alright. I'll write you again when we arrive at the next city.

Love Eurydice

SEND

Eurydice threw her garbage in the can, putting her headphones. She'd pick up her pokemon, and then find a place to spend the night.

 

[CounterAttack]

Alix and Robyn soon found themselves at the front of the queue for healing Pokémon: Alix deposited Stana and Gideon, the two battlers, while Robyn left everyone except Nina in the nurse's care.

"We provide food and accommodation for travelling Trainers and those who need a place to stay for the night. Lodgings are down the hall to your right, and the kitchen and dining area is on the left," the nurse answered. "We should have your Pokémon ready for you in a few minutes."

"Awesome, so the setup's just like back at home. Thanks for the heads-up." Alix retired to one of the many couches set up, inviting Jen to hop up next to her. The Torchic got half a cube of munchies as a reward, while Matti got the other half for his patience and not being a handful after dinner. Matti promptly scarfed it down, then jumped down from the seat Alix had set him on and began to wander a little. "Stay close, mister," Alix warned him before looking over at Robyn.

"So... first day on the League challenge is drawing to a close. What do you reckon the other Gym Leaders will be like? Back in Aquamar they mentioned a Jenna... didn't say what her choice of type was though. Any guesses?" she queried.

 

[Pm0n3y]

"We can go battle later if you'd like," Brandon replied to his disappointed pokémon, breaking Morgan out of a lofty space that almost seemed to have gone on indefinitely. "Could you even battle a gym leader twice...?" He mumbled a low query as he realigned the duffel bag on his shoulder. He looked on as the bulky trainer further addressed his pokémon. After they all declined going back into their devices, He turned his attention to the waiting sailor.

"I'll show you the way over to the gym. It is pretty easy to find. Looks kinda terrible on the outside, but is nice once you get inside." He told him, rising to meet him at face level. "Alright. Let's make like a Miltank, and rollout." He tried to catch himself on the horrible wordplay, but it was too late. As he left, he could've swore he heard someone boo at his back.

One quick trek later...
The two made the last steps up the massive incline that the dingy looking gym sat upon. Morgan noted that. "You'd think someone would clean this stuff up, unless it was like, the intention of the leader or something..." He noted as the two stepped over the threshold of two large glass doors. Walking inside, the roar of the crowd was much more apparent as it rang throughout the relitively clean halls, fallowed closely by the call of the gym leader. His amplified voice transmitted through wall mounted speakers, announcing the start of another match. "Guess we should find somewhere to sit then." Morgan concluded, picking up his pace as he followed one of the many signs that lead to seating accommodations.

 

[RBMidknight]

Elias liked that the tram was fast. Well, faster than the boat ride had been. Here he actually felt like he was moving and not just swaying unpleasantly. He kept close to the door. Close enough that he would get to leave with the first rush but far enough away that in case they picked up new people he wouldn't get run over. Or so he hoped.

He started pressing the side buttons on his X-Transceiver, to see what would change what. He found a stopwatch function, changed the time to military, and made the background a new color. He then managed to mute all of the sounds and couldn't undo the change. Frustrated, he took the X-transceiver off and brought it up closer to his face. There was a tiny symbol on the edge of the screen that was probably important.

"So what do you feel like eating?"

Elias shrugged before answering Erika, his attention still mostly on his device. "Some place with fried Cloyster? Or Tauros steaks. Or anything that looks good." He put his X-Transceiver back on, frowning when it still ceased to do its customary beeps . "Are we allowed to feed our Pokémon in these restaurants?" He asked. He'd been planning to anyway but maybe these places were...fancy.

 

[NeoAC]

"Shoot, I don't know," Robyn answered as she took a seat next to Alix. Nina was having none of it with the added energy from the hearty meal fueling her. She bounced off of Robyn's lap and went to follow Matti as he explored the area.

"Hmmm, guess she's still a little miffed about not battling Gideon," Robyn commented before returning to the question asked of her. "Like I said, Burgh used Bugs back in Castelia. I remember seeing Elesa on TV a couple times, she used Electric types. Then Brycen, he was a big movie star, my mom gushed over his movies, he used Ice types. Other than that, I don't really know. Not sure it's much help for a place like this. It's so different from everything else."

Nina continued to follow after Matti, intent on finding out what the little egg Pokemon was looking for.

 

[tsatoma]

"You'd think someone would clean this stuff up, unless it was like, the intention of the leader or something..."

"I'm not even going to pretend to understand what goes on in most Trainer's minds, let alone Gym Leaders," Brandon told Morgan after entering the gym; surprised by the sheer number of people watching the ongoing battle. "Sheesh, a lot more people than when I was here. I just had a few stragglers from a match before me and some bored kids. Hope you don't get stage fright," he said with amusement, patting Morgan on the back as they went to find some seats.

All of the front row spots were taken; to nobody's surprise. A few levels up had a few open seats, though trying to get pass all of the patrons seemed almost too much of a hassle with how cramped it was. After his Pokemon chose their spots, Brandon sat down next to his Croagunk who seemed to be more interested in the bits of garbage on the ground than the battle. "I'm not sure if there is supposed to be a place where people who want to battle go. Might just have to run on down there after this one is over."

 

[Tortilla the Hun]

A couple of hours had passed before Caleb awoke with a start at the clinking of cans as a Panpour was rifling through his pack. Ira was just lying on her stomach, staring at the picture of peaches on a stray can's label and seemingly aloof of the fact that the trainer was in the process of being robbed. He set his glasses aside and rubbed his eyes as if to rub away the tiredness shortly before the situation fully sunk into his mind. Springing to his feet, rather ungraciously and followed with a groggy wobble, Caleb shooed away the overly curious Pokémon. "Hey! That's my stuff, get outta there!"

Spike awoke from his resting place against the trunk of a tree and could only watch, bemused as the Panpour leapt back and scurried away, tripping over the distracted Wooper in the process. Ira seemed to not noticed that something had rolled her onto her back by being stumbled over. She simply continued staring at the can of peaches, as if completely mesmerized by it.

"Ira, you okay?" Caleb asked, worried about the somewhat chaotic exit the would-be thief made.

"[color=5AACEC]Pah[/color]," she replied with disinterest. She was far more concerned with the contents of the can than she was in being essentially kicked around.

"Alright, I think it's time we get moving. I'd rather not be out here when it starts to get dark."

 

[Pm0n3y]

One Viewing of a Clumsily Executed Pokémon Battle Later...

"LET'S GIVE IT UP, FOR JAAAAMES!" The announcer announced from his booth, giving honorable mention to the trainer that offered a humiliating display of combat for the sake of entertainment. The gym leader addressed the crowd as the flustered trainer quickly stepped down from the challenger platform. "Now now, Give your respects, everyone! He tried his best! And he can always try again tomorrow!" Barrett earnestly clapped for the loser.

"Now, who's gonna battle me next?" He looked out into the crowd, doing the whole exaggerated "hand-over-eyes" gesture one does when they're looking for someone. "I saw a guy with glasses come in while I was battling! And he was one 'a the dudes scrappin' down at Lake Lapis earlier today! If ya still in here, then i'll let you know that some 'a ya friends came through earlier, and they all won!" Morgan didn't appreciate being being called out like that. But, he was already on his way to the battlegrounds.a pokemon role play

"So if I were you, i'd-...Ohhh, there you are!" Barrett spotted the sailor, appearing from the competitor's platform entrance. A spotlight flashed over Morgan, obscuring his eyes behind the shine of his specks. "You didn't have to trash that last trainer the way you did. He obviously had no idea what he was getting himself into." Morgan called as he ascended to the blue platform. "Well, he's young, ain't he? He's gonna learn from his mistakes. But you though...you best be prepared!" Barrett casually replied, getting the roar of applause from the crowd in return.

"We ain't gon' waste any more time, sailor guy! Sandshrew, let's show 'im how we do 'round here!" The pokéball he held popped open, and the jolt of light flashed down onto the field, and a little yellow mouse rolled forward. "How does everyone keep doing that? I'm not even wearing my uniform!" Morgan conjured up his own circular capture device, and pointed it towards the sandy artificial environment. Out popped Bruce, a bewildered Squirtle that made Barrett's eyebrows jump in surprise.

"Ooooh, real match! We got ourselves a reallll matCH here!" He sounded a little giddy by the whole thing. "That's a real type advantage you got! But, it ain't over til' it's over! Let's dance!" The battle tango had commenced, with Morgan leading the charge. "Bruce! Bubble! Spam Bubble!" He called out to the Squirtle. The turtle, wanting to ignore his master, decided to get involved after narrowly missing sand being thrown into his eyes. Bruce retaliated, sending a blast of bubbles towards his opponent, one not quick enough to dodge. Morgan couldn't help but smirk a bit at the weirdly substantial amount of damage a flurry of bubbles could do. Barrett whistled.

"Y'know, there's a whole lotta potential behind a Squirtle." He admitted, scoping out the battle. "Tell me about it." Morgan replied with a knowing nod. "Keep up with the fight, Barrett. You might just see some 'a that potential today." As the two conversed above, the fight below never ceased. Bruce bolted on all fours, ramming into the staggered Sandshrew. The Squirtle didn't let up either, releasing another flourish of suds upon the mouse before it could properly recover. "Geez Bruce, reign in back a bit. We're not in a hurry..." Morgan mumbled as Barrett sent the incapacitated pokémon back into its ball.

"Damn. Your Squirtle really came to throw down, didn't he? Here, lemme give 'im more of a challenge." He presented another pokéball, and released its contents. WHUMP. A fairly rotund automaton landed dully, and stiffly announced itself. "Gooolett!" It cried. Morgan felt the need to readjust his glasses, just to make sure he wasn't hallucinating. "The fuck? What kind of pokémon is that?!" "Is that uh, some sort of robot? Is that even legal?" the bewildered sailor queried. Barrett chuckled. "Look it up! S'called Golett!" As he talked, Bruce had enough of the formalities and just wanted to fight. He rushed into the golem, in attempts to connect another tackle. CLONK! The attack connected, but barely seemed to faze the lofty-eyed ghost-robot. It actually seemed to hinder more than help, as Bruce took some staggered steps backward, dazed after knocking heads with what was basically the equivalent of a sentient brick wall.

 

[elementsoul]

The tram across the city slowed down and came to a steady stop that could easily be missed if someone wasn?t paying attention. Elias still seemed to be trying to figure out something with his X-transceiver and Erika tapped him on the shoulder and pointed to the open door.

The two of them walked off the train and Erika lead the path towards a group of cafes and restaurants around the corner from the Pokémon center. Erika walked to a restaurant that seemed to look more of a cross between the two, which had good reviews online. The menu posted outside had fried Cloysters and Tauros steaks along with a largish selection of other foods. A Pokémon friendly sign was posted in the window and this seemed like the place.

?I guess this is it,? Erika said to Elias as she walked in through the door with him in tow and signaled the waitress for a table of two.

 

[Pm0n3y]

Meanwhile...

"Okay, this isn't working out." Morgan admitted through a sigh, looking on as the non-compliant Bruce repeatedly rammed into the Golett. Even if damage was being done, it definitely wasn't noticeable. "Alright dummy, get back here before you get yourself squashed." He returned the visibly dazed Squirtle back to its ball. Barrett had a giggle. "Lil' guy was really thinkin' with his head, wasn't he?" The leader chuckled. Morgan's eyes glazed over in annoyance. "yeahhewasdoingsomething,thelittleshit." He grumbled, deprecatingly releasing Chase out onto the field.

"Chase, use Supersonic! Let's make that slowpoke even slower!" "Chin! ...Chin...?" The Chinchou, while eager to attack, couldn't seem to find his target. Morgan sighed again, putting a hand to his face in disbelief. Barrett had another giggle.

"Goddammit...not an actual Slowpoke! The robot thing, Chase! The rob-Gole-whatever-the-fuck-it's-called, hit it!" In Chase's defense, it wasn't his fault he didn't know the name of a well known pokémon was also a human phrase. "Ho! Chinnnnnnn!" Now with his eyes set on an actual target, Chase unleashed his attack. The yellow lobes hanging from his head glowed as waves of light gently floated into the lumbering golem. There was a bit of a pause after that, with everyone eager to see what would happen next.

Suddenly, the Golett stirred to life! It roared a mighty roar, and raised its fists in an unattainable rage! "Oh geez..." Morgan began to sigh. "Chinn..." Chase curled up, bracing for the worst. But, before the sailor could consider the battle lost, the Golett began attacking itself! "Oh, so that actually worked." Morgan raised an eyebrow, surprised that something in this match went right for once. "Alright Chase, Bubble 'im! Let's finish this while it's still in our favor!"

 

[SkyeNeko]

HOTEL KALITA

Well, they didn't get points for creativity. Still. The lobby was clean, quiet, and well lit, homey in it's palette of browns, no doubt influenced by the local gym.

"Good Afternoon, miss, and welcome to Hotel Kalita. Are you checking in?"
Eurydice nodded.
"... Ookay, do you have a reservation miss?"
Her nametag read Lanie. Lanie was a little flustered by her non verbal customer, but polite enough to just smile and continue.
"Alright miss, if you could just fill out this paper for me, it will be P3000 for the night, check out is at 10:00am, there is a complimentary breakfast provided..."
Eurydice could hardly hear the woman over the music in her headphones, but she had gotten pretty good at reading lips. Terms and conditions, blah blah blah...
"Thank you miss... Anania?" Obviously a foreign name, but she didn't want to be rude and ask complex questions in case the girl was deaf or mute. "You will be in room 516. Have a nice stay at hotel Kalita, where you and your Pokemon can enjoy a nice rest.~"
Lanie waited until the odd girl was gone, and then added a note onto room 516.

Special Needs: Customer mute

Eurydice let her Pokemon out one by one as she entered the room, clicking each of the pokeballs on her belt in turn, while changing the song with her other hand. Ponyta shook out her mane before kneeling down and sitting on the floor. Budew ran around in a circle, overwhelmed by the new sights and smells. Ralts looked around in a more reserved manner, staying near Eurydice. Shinx jumped up on the bed, circling before falling over on his side, one paw over his face, and going to sleep. Ducklett meanwhile, started to raise a fuss, shouting and flying all over the room. Eurydice turned the music up and sat on the edge of the bed, watching the blue bird tire herself out. She probably missed her mom... she took out her second sketchpad, but instead of a picture, started writing.

Do Pokemon miss their family after they've been captured by a trainer?
Fact: Pokemon do form bonds with other Pokemon, just as they do with their trainers.
Is it possible that Pokemon who do not form strong bonds with their trainers will attempt to escape? Will they not perform at the same levels?
Fact: Pokemon with strong bonds to their trainers perform better than newly caught Pokemon in battle.

 

[Pm0n3y]

"Chin! Chin! Chinchinchin!" With vicious mixture of constant foam spray and overarching self-harming confusion, the smackdown Chase laid down upon the Golett was too much for it to handle. "Gooooooooleeeee..." Like a mighty tree it collapsed with a heavy thud. The crowd cheered at the victory. Morgan put his hands to his hips, surprised the fight actually went in his favor.

"Huh. That went better than expected..." He mulled over the results, raising an eyebrow. On the other side of the field, Barrett looked on, not even mad at the results of the battle. He smirked a cool smirk before announcing the latest winner to the roaring crowd. Brandishing the prize, he tossed it over to the sailor. "Here, this might help ya get a rein on that Squirtle!" Morgan caught the small sachet, and rummaged through it's contents. "What is this, like some sort of medication or something-nope, just a badge and prize money." He looked up towards the gym leader. "Uh, thanks, I guess." He gave a little salute before quickly dismissing himself from the battlefield.

A battle won, and Morgan didn't feel all that proud of the victory. If anything, he felt more embarrassed at his belligerent, unresponsive Pokémon. Once he cleared the gym, he knew he had a few choice words for Bruce. But then he remembered he came in with a person. "I should've looked in the crowd while I was still up on that platform, he's probably already left or something." He mumbled some more.

 

[CounterAttack]

"Like I said, Burgh used Bugs back in Castelia. I remember seeing Elesa on TV a couple times, she used Electric types. Then Brycen, he was a big movie star, my mom gushed over his movies, he used Ice types. Other than that, I don't really know. Not sure it's much help for a place like this. It's so different from everything else."

"Hmm... well, we should probably find out somehow, or else we're just stumbling around in the dark," Alix noted, absent-mindedly ruffling Jen's feathers. "Hang on a sec. New idea." She raised her left hand in front of her, consulting the Xtransceiver on her wrist. Contacts, notes, video-calling... wi-fi and internet. Pokémon Centers usually have free wi-fi... There was the Kalita Center connection. Bink! And she was in. Straight to the web browser.

Gensia League details

was Alix's search of choice, quickly leading to an official Pokémon League site devoted to the Gensia region. "Aha! Found it. Notes on this region's Gym Leaders... yeesh. I guess we were lucky not to take on Jenna first, judging by her type of choice. The site's got their Elite Four as well." She showed the results to Robyn:

[table align=center border=2]
[tr]
[td colspan=3]

Gym Leaders​

[/td][td].[/td][td colspan=2]

Elite Four​

[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Name[/td]
[td]Specialty[/td]
[td]City[/td]
[td].[/td]
[td]Name[/td]
[td]Specialty[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Barrett[/td]
[td]Ground[/td]
[td]Kalita City[/td]
[td].[/td]
[td]Ione[/td]
[td]Electric[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Samantha[/td]
[td]Dark[/td]
[td]Natree City[/td]
[td].[/td]
[td]Pegasus[/td]
[td]Flying[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Virgil[/td]
[td]Poison[/td]
[td]Sugille City[/td]
[td].[/td]
[td]Ralhan[/td]
[td]Normal[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Katrina & Cyndy[/td]
[td]Fire[/td]
[td]Topasa City[/td]
[td]EDGAR[/td]
[td]Florian[/td]
[td]Grass[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Ferryn[/td]
[td]Steel[/td]
[td]South Argenna City[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Adrian[/td]
[td]Psychic[/td]
[td]North Argenna City[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Jenna[/td]
[td]Dragon[/td]
[td]Chalcedon City[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]Isaac & Natasha[/td]
[td]Fighting[/td]
[td]Palladai City[/td]
[/tr]
[/table]

"It's an interesting setup they've got, I think," Alix continued. "There's some types in here that I've never seen as Elite Four specialties. Three of those are just ordinary Gyms back in Hoenn."

"Togeh! Togeh... to..." Matti, an exhausted look on his face, slowly wandered back over to the Trainers and sat on Alix's foot. A loud snore soon followed: he'd tired himself out and fallen asleep.

"Aw, mate, look at you. C'mere." Poké Balls came out of the satchel, and both Jen and the sleeping Togepi were quickly returned to them. "I think I might follow his lead, get an early night before tomorrow. I'm surprised we covered this much ground in one day. See ya in the morning." To that end, Alix got up, collected Stana and Gideon from the nurse on duty, and headed for the Center's lodgings.

[hr]

"What do you mean you were driven out of the lake?"

"We didn't have much choice in the matter. It was either that or cause even more trouble," Peaked Cap answered.

"Ugh. Fine. You and your squad will go back tomorrow, in plain clothes as opposed to those damned uniforms, and get me that data I need. No locking down the area; I want results. No excuses this time." The speaker, dressed in a white lab coat, paced back and forth, reading and rereading a clipboard full of notes.

"Understood."

"Now get out. I have work to do," Lab Coat snapped, and Peaked Cap beat a hasty retreat. Alone in his laboratory, the scientist set his clipboard of notes down and sat at a desk, resting his head in his hands for a moment.

"The lake wasn't a total bust, at least. It's just delayed... gah. Delays, imbeciles, incorrect theories and assumptions... the project isn't going well. At least I have the results from the forest and the badlands. But they're not enough, I need more data, more knowledge on why Gensia is the way it is... Perhaps some external force has caused the changes in the local wildlife. No, that doesn't make any sense, the entire island would've known about it by now. There has to be something. I just haven't uncovered it yet."

[hr]

[HEADING=2]Day Two[/HEADING]​

Before 8:30 the following morning, Alix was awake, breakfasted and showered. Experience in the family Day Care had long since taught her to be up and ready early, lest a Pokémon in her care go without something it needed. Food was the most common need in the morning: the trick to Breeding was to give the two their space and let them work it out for themselves.

Her plans for today? Take on Barrett, earn her first Badge, and then... well, she would see what happened.

 

[Mr. Omega]

Russel had spent remainder of the last day watching a few of the other trainers mess around, contemplating what had happened. He was surprised the egg didn't hatch, but wasn't going to worry about it yet. He reached into his pocket, releasing his three pokemon. Rory was still asleep and Munchie jumped around. Gul. "Good morning to you too, Munchie."

He looked over to Mera, who was moving sluggishly. "Hey, Mera? Everything ok?" He knew she had taken a nasty hit in the Gym battle, but he thought the Pokemon Center would have taken care of it. "Look, we'll take things easy. Pick up a bite to eat and watch some gym battles. Sound good?" Lotad. Mera said, nodding happily. He got up, taking Rory back into his ball with the other two walking out of the room with him.

 

[NeoAC]

As she studied the list that Alix's machine had produced, Robyn nodded in agreement. "Yeah, don't think I'm ready to slay any dragons yet." Not ready for a lot of this, I don't think. Dark? Steel? Will I be ready for those types when it comes to it? Looks a lot more difficult then squashing a couple of bugs...

The two wandering Pokemon returned, and not having gotten anything from the tiny Egg Pokemon, Nina returned to her trainer. "Lillil! Petiiiii!"

"All right, all right." Robyn scooped Nina off the floor and held her as Alix confirmed that she was done for the night. "Yeah, I'll see ya tomorrow." She followed suit in retrieving her Pokeballs from the attendant and moved into the back. Claiming a bed, Nina and herself crawled in, music playing to help the both of them fall into a deep sleep.

[hr]

It was an enjoyable rest. Robyn didn't get up too early. Her X-tran read about 8:30, so that was par for the course. Nina was still dozing until Robyn woke her from her slumber. The little Grass type yawned before shaking her leaves and appearing to be her usual bouncy self. "All right Nina. Today we kick ass and take no prisoners at this gym, got it?"

"Lil!" The salute confirmed the intentions.

"That's my girl. So let's get some grub and head out! Knock this out of the way early!"

"Petiiilil!"

After a quick change of clothes the two headed out to the cafeteria to pick up some fuel for that all-important first gym battle.

 

[elementsoul]

Erika was often an early to bed early to rise person. Last night and today was one of those instances as the gym was closed by the time Elias and herself had finished some half decent food and swapped stories about their hometowns. Given the distance travelled and the misadventure at the lake, Erika had been exhausted and passed out almost as soon as she got to the Pokémon Center.

Waking up at seven had given her privacy, in regards to most of the still sleeping trainers staying at the Center. Quickly she had gotten herself showered, dressed, and ready for the day and ate some breakfast with her Pokémon prior to leaving for the gym.

Upon arriving at the gym, as much to the problem with waking up early, Erika found out that it was currently closed. Damn, it opens at eight. Erika thought to herself as she checked her Pokégear to see that it was twenty minutes till the gym opened.

Not sure what to do with the spare time recently bestowed on her, she started to look around at the other people near the gym. There were a few people arriving for their morning shift to nearby businesses that were likely to be opening soon. A couple more looked like trainers, such as herself, who looked to be getting set to challenge the Gym as well.

A girl who looked a year, maybe two, younger than Erika looked really nervous leaning against one of the gym?s walls. Walking over to her, Erika saw she had some Poké Balls attacked to her belt and used it as a conversation starter.

?So do you plan on challenging the gym?? Erika asked sweetly.

The girl acted startled, having not been paying attention at all. ?Aah?Sorry you scared me a little. I guess I wasn?t paying attention. Umm?Ya I was planning on it. It?ll be my third time trying.?

?Wow, your third time trying. Is Barrett that tough? What kind of Pokémon does he use?? Erika asked despite already knowing the answer to one of the questions.

?Well?I don?t know if he?s tough?He seems tough to me?But it just might be that I?m not very good. He also uses a lot of ground Pokémon as well.?

The girl?s confidence seemed lack luster at best and Erika instantly noticed it. Maybe there was something she could do about it, and also help to kill time. ?Do you want to try battling against me to get some experience? It might help with your nervousness as well.? Erika suggested not really caring if the battle happened or not.

?Maybe?Sure. There?s some things I?ve been wanting to try out.?

Erika was a bit surprised by the girl?s response given here nervous state, but still proceeded to back away as to create a space between them for the battle to occur.

?Three Pokémon, one on one.? Erika heard the girl say as a Seedot was released onto the makeshift battlefield.

?Go Ygritte!? Erika shouted as she released her most recently captured Pokémon. The fire mouse exited onto the field and was instantly the target of a combo attack.

?Use Quick Attack to get close and then use Bullet Seed!? The younger trainer commanded as her Seedot move with surprising speed to the flank of Ygritte and fired off the first burst of seeds.

?SmokeScreen while dodging! ? Erika countered as her Cyndaquil dodged forward, doing a flip, while releasing a cloud of black smoke.

Several seeds grazed Ygritte doing minimal damage as she disappeared into the cloud of smoke, effectively dodging the next two barrages.

?Leer than Tackle!? Erika yelled as the Cyndaquil circled around the Seedot before Cyndaquil?s glowing red eyes locked with the Seedot that was almost immediately hit with the Tackle attack.

?Use quick Attack to get out of the smoke!? The Seedot obeyed and was returned once it cleared the smoke. ?Go Lotad! Use Water Gun to help clear out the smoke!?

A small jet of water pierced the smoke and a section of smoke was cleared out followed by Erika?s Cyndaquil. The Pokémon was heavily hurt, but still not out of it. That fact didn?t matter as Erika returned Ygritte and released Maya in her place.

The Metapod materialized in the still remains of the smoke screen just as Erika had aimed and she quickly called out an attack, ?Use Struggle Bug!?

Upon her command several orbs of light could be seen through the smoke as they produced around the Metapod. They quickly converged in front of Maya and fired a beam that impacted hard against the Lotad sending it skidding backwards.

Not wasting a second Erika swapped Maya out for Breña and issued a call for a Howl and Tackle combo. Before the Poochyena made it to the Lotad, the other trainer called out, ?Nature Power!?

A Tri Attack formed at the mouth of the Lotad and streaked towards the charging Breña. ?Dodge quick and hit from the top!? Erika shouted instinctively as the Poochyena tried to avoid the attack, but got hit by it. The power of the attack easily took its toll, but Breña continued the charge at a slower speed.

The speed drop didn?t matter as the Bite Pokémon took to the air and slammed into the top of the Lotad. The Water Weed Pokémon collapsed and was switched out for her Nidoran♂.

?Breña same thing as last time. Don?t give it the time to counter this time.? Erika commanded as her Poochyena charged forward letting out a loud howl as it approached.

The Tackle hit dead on, from the top down, only to turn out as bait. ?Double Kick!? Came the order as shifted forward and struck up with both its legs. Instantly Breña was down for the count and Erika returned her.

?Go Maya!? Erika shouted as her Metapod entered the battlefield again. ?String shot!? Erika ordered as soon as the Cocoon Pokémon materialized. A string of sticky web was fired at the Nidoran who was getting tangled in the tough to remove substance.

?Finish it quick with Peck before you get hit with more of that stuff.? Erika?s opponent said as the Nidoran charged at Maya. ?Counter with Struggle Bug.? Erika replied as the Orbs generated around Maya and converged. The beam shot forward and hit the Nidoran slowed to a crawl, but was still moving.

Knowing how easily Maya could be taken out with Peck, Maya returned her just in the nick of time as the Nidoran would have ended Maya?s participation in this battle. Go Ygritte Erika shouted as her still badly damaged Cyndaquil reentered the battle.

?Quick Tackle!? Erika commanded and Ygritte followed through with, downing the Nidoran.

With her opponent on her last Pokémon, Erika got cocky for a second and missed a needed dodge order as her Opponent?s Seedot quickly finished off Erika?s Cyndaquil with a Quick attack.

The match moved to one on one as Erika released Maya to the field once again.

?Quick Attack! Finish this fast!? The Seedot immediately sped forward towards the Metapod. ?Harden then use Bug Bite once it hits.? Erika counted as a clear shine surrounded Maya?s shell. The Seedot hit immediately after, only to be graced with Maya?s glowing mouth when doing so. The Seedot was clearly the worse for wear from that encounter.

?Use Quick Attack to back up and hit it from the side with another Quick Attack!? The Seedot backed away quickly but the delay between the first and second quick attack left too great of a window. ?Maya finish it with Struggle Bug!? Erika commanded as the orbs once again formed and converged, firing a beam of light directly into the Seedot before it could start its second advance.

The attack knocked the Seedot over onto its side and the Pokémon briefly struggled to stand, but failed to do so, and then passed out. Erika recalled Maya at the same time as her opponent recalled her Seedot and walked across the battle ground.

?I thought I was going to lose for a while there.? Erika said as she reached the girl and held out her hand.
The other trainer took her hand and shook it. ?I thought I did too.? The trainer replied jokingly.

?I?m Erika Park by the way.?

?Alexa Spates.?

?So Alexa I have no idea how you haven?t beaten Barrett yet. You battled with a lot more confidence against me then when I tried talking to you.?

?Well our battle was just for fun so there wasn?t much to worry about. I guess I just can?t shake my nerves since Gym Leader battles actually matter.?

?Well you almost had me down and out. So if I beat Barrett you should have nothing to worry about. I can?t really give you any improvements since our match was so close. Maybe just save that opening move for something closer to the end of a battle. Fresh Pokémon will have an easier time dodging, and considering this is a ground type gym, it should be a good finisher.?

?Thanks, I don?t really have any ideas outside of maybe being less head strong with your Poochyena. You kind of just sent the thing in headstrong, which made taking it out with Double Kick really easy. Also do you want to exchange phone numbers??

?Thanks, I?ll keep that in mind and sure.? Erika replied as the two swapped devices and entered each other?s numbers.

?Well good luck with your match, I need to go back to the Pokémon Center to get my Pokémon healed. Hopefully I?ll be back in time to see your match.? Alexa said as she ran off more cheery to the Pokémon Center.

 

[CounterAttack]

With four of her five Pokémon following on foot - and one secure in her arms - Alix led the way towards Barrett's Gym. The walk wasn't far, since the two buildings were just down the road from one another. It seemed that other people had the same idea, as Trainers with all sorts of Pokémon were making their way to the Gym. Alix recognised some of the species out and about: one had a Milotic, another a Breloom and a Heracross, there was a Glaceon scampering about, and there were an Altaria and a Skarmory carrying their Trainers overhead.

Alix couldn't help but stare at some of the clearly well-trained Pokémon at their Trainers' sides. While she knew that with practice and training her own team would get looks like the one she was giving, she couldn't help but feel that she was a bit behind the curve.

"Osha?" Gideon poked Alix's ankle; she'd stopped to stare. "Right. Sorry, guys, got distracted. Let's go." She picked up the pace a little to make up for lost time, quickly spotting Erika outside. She looked like she was about to head in and get started. "Come on, team, let's see if we can beat the line there," she urged her Pokémon, breaking into a bit of a jog. Gideon, Stana and Jen were more than happy to speed up, though Ludevic was more content to just sit down and teleport a few times to catch up.

Once Alix got close enough, she called everyone back to their Balls, not wanting anyone to run off before the match. "Morning, Erika. You taking on the Gym this morning?" she queried of her fellow Trainer.

Spoiler: Pokémon Team Updates

Update #06

Alix:
Matti (Togepi), level 10. Learned Sweet Kiss, Charm, Extrasensory, Metronome (Serene Grace)
Stana (Poochyena), level 9. Tackle, Howl, Learned Astonish, Learned Sand-Attack (Quick Feet)
Ludevic (Abra), level 9. Teleport, Foresight, Metronome (Magic Guard)
Gideon (Oshawott), level 11. Tackle, Tail Whip, Water Gun, Learned Water Sport (Vital Spirit)
Jen (Torchic), level 10. Scratch, Growl, Focus Energy, Ember (Speed Boost)

Elias:
In Party:
Dune (Sandile), level 9. Leer, Rage, Bite, Sand-Attack (Moxie)
Rex (Rattata), level 6. Bite, Tackle, Tail Whip, Quick Attack (Guts)
Tess (Electrike), level 7. Tackle, Thunder Wave (Static)
Skylar (Hoothoot), level 6. Tackle, Foresight, Night Shade, Hypnosis (Insomnia)
(Abra), level 6. Teleport, Foresight, Metronome (Synchronize)
Torkoal, level 7. Yawn, Ember, Smog, Withdraw (White Smoke)

In PC:
Shinx, level 9. Bite, Tackle, Leer, Charge (Intimidate)

Russel:
Munchie (Gulpin), level 14. Pound, Smog, Yawn, Poison Gas, Learned Sludge (Liquid Ooze)
Rory (Ralts), level 10. Growl, Confusion, Learned Double Team (Trace)
Mera (Lotad), level 11. Astonish, Water Gun, Absorb, Nature Power, Learned Mist (Rain Dish)
Egg (???) Egg Watch: Ready to Hatch!

Heidi:
In Party:
Yani (Yanma), level 9. Tackle, Foresight, Steel Wing, Quick Attack (Speed Boost)
George (Starly), level 8. Tackle, Growl, Quick Attack (Keen Eye)
Eve (Combee), level 7. Sweet Scent, Gust (Hustle)
Daniel (Metapod), level 7. Tackle, Bug Bite, Struggle Bug, Harden (Shed Skin)
Laura (Mudkip), level 10. Tackle, Tail Whip, Yawn, Mud-Slap, Learned Water Gun (Mold Breaker)
Lewis (Surskit), level 10. Bubble, Quick Attack (Swift Swim)

In PC:
Mike (Chimchar), level 8. Scratch, Leer, Ember (Iron Fist)

Morgan:
Chase (Chinchou), level 10. Light Screen, Bubble, Supersonic, Learned Flail (Volt Absorb)
Spike (Poochyena), level 8. Tackle, Howl (Quick Feet)
Sting (Weedle), level 7. Poison Sting, String Shot, Bug Bite (Shield Dust) (Eligible to Evolve)
Bruce (Squirtle), level 10. Bubble, Tackle, Tail Whip, Learned Withdraw (Torrent)

Alan:
Clay (Tyrogue), level 10. Tackle, Helping Hand, Fake Out, Foresight (Vital Spirit)
Samson (Taillow), level 9. Peck, Growl, Focus Energy, Quick Attack (Scrappy)
Mary (Mareep), level 9. Tackle, Charge, Thunder Wave, ThunderShock (Static)

Caleb:
Spike (Elekid), level 8. Dizzy Punch, Quick Attack, Leer, ThunderShock, Low Kick (Static)
Maxwell (Mankey), level 6. Scratch, Low Kick, Leer, Focus Energy (Anger Point)
(Seedot), level 7. Bullet Seed, Quick Attack, Bide, Harden, Growth (Early Bird)
Ira (Wooper), level 10. Water Gun, Tail Whip, Mud Shot, Belly Drum (Unaware)

Robyn:
Nina (Petilil), level 12. Absorb, Growth, Leech Seed, Learned Sleep Powder (Own Tempo)
Scout (Sentret), level 7. Scratch, Foresight, Defense Curl, Dizzy Punch (Keen Eye)
Natalie (Swablu), level 11. Peck, Roost, Sing, Astonish (Cloud Nine)
Sauza (Metapod), level 10. Tackle, Bug Bite, Struggle Bug, Harden (Shield Dust) (Eligible to Evolve)
Laila (Torchic), level 10. Scratch, FeatherDance, Focus Energy, Ember (Speed Boost)

Erika:
Burtha (Swinub), level 9. Tackle, Odor Sleuth, Mud Sport, Powder Snow (Thick Fat)
Aerial (Pidgey), level 9. Gust, Razor Wind, Sand-Attack, Pluck (Big Pecks)
Bre&#241a (Poochyena), level 13. Tackle, Howl, Sand-Attack, Learned Bite (Rattled)
Maya (Metapod), level 10. Tackle, String Shot, Bug Bite, Struggle Bug (Shield Dust) (Eligible to Evolve)
Ygritte (Cyndaquil), level 10. Tackle, Leer, SmokeScreen, Learned Ember (Blaze)

Eurydice:
Ponyta, level 10. Growl, Tackle, Tail Whip, Baton Pass, Ember (Flame Body)
Budew, level 8. Absorb, Growth, Learned Water Sport (Poison Point)
Ralts, level 10. Growl, Confusion, Learned Double Team (Trace)
Shinx, level 10. Bite, Tackle, Leer, Charge (Intimidate)
Ducklett, level 11. Water Gun, Water Sport, Defog, Wing Attack (Keen Eye)
Geodude, level 7. Tackle, Defense Curl, Mud Sport, Rapid Spin (Sturdy)

Brandon:
Norma (Drilbur), level 15. Metal Claw, Rapid Spin, Mud-Slap, Fury Swipes (Mold Breaker)
Perry (Marill), level 14. Dizzy Punch, BubbleBeam, Rollout, Defense Curl (Huge Power)
Grey (Croagunk), level 13. Astonish, Poison Sting, Pursuit, Taunt (Poison Touch)

 

[tsatoma]

Having to get up early in the morning to go to work was something Brandon was used to and even somewhat enjoyed since it gave more time to do things later on. The only time he did not like waking up early was when he had little sleep during the night.

Which was why he was not happy after a very unrestful night; mostly caused by his Pokemon's constant fidgeting. Grey and Perry were only caught a few days ago, and Norma was only a week or so before that. Maybe I should not have given them the choice on where to sleep, Brandon reflected after a brief spell of sleep, regretting the decision to not have the three Pokemon sleep in their Pokeballs. Grey had even decided to go and sleep there anyways after first sleeping at the foot of the bed, ending up on the floor before choosing the Pokeball.

Perry had somehow managed to wind up on the nightstand after trying out the chair and dresser in the room. Little Norma had moved the least out of the three, snuggling up on her Trainer's pillow and staying there the majority of the night. And now she is sleeping on top of my head, Brandon thought, slightly wary of the fact that his Drilbur's sharp claws were right next to his face. I'll just move her away gently-

BEEP. BEEP. BEEP.

One expletive crossed Brandon's mind as the alarm began to rang before his startled Pokemon awoke. Perry had been right atop the alarm, and was shooting Bubblebeams around the room. Norma had only swiped with her claws a few times before Brandon had hopped out of bed and turned the alarm off. Perry was still hopping around the room in a fit, and Norma was beginning to cry.

"Perry, it was just the alarm! I know you're a bit sensitive to noise but calm down," Brandon told his Pokemon calmly once he had grabbed a hold of the Aqua Mouse Pokemon. After a few brief moments where Perry frantically looked around the room as if trying to find the source of the noise, the Pokemon relaxed.

With one Pokemon no longer making a fuss, Brandon put Perry down and faced the crying Mole Pokemon. "It was just a small accident Norma. I had forgotten to turn the alarm off from yesterday," he told Norma, who quieted down once her Trainer had come over and hugged her.

Placing her back down, Brandon began to pick up some of the things Perry had knocked down. Thankfully there weren't too many things just lying about in his room that had fallen, though everything was slightly damp from the attack. After opening up the window to let the morning breeze in to help dry things, Brandon noticed that Grey was sitting in the chair in the corner. "Just been there the whole time not trying to help, right?" he asked her, getting a lazy shrug in return. Rolling his eyes at her, Brandon went over and began to get dressed.

Croaa. Grey started to get his attention, pointing to her cheek once her Trainer looked over. Initially confused (and checking the wrong cheek), Brandon realized that Norma had given him a closer shave than he had realized. "Thanks. I'll just go take care of this before Norma realizes anything," he said, muttering the last part as he finished getting dressed and went to the bathroom.

Once he was back (clean-shaven and with a band aid on his cheek), he took his Pokemon to go and get some breakfast (sticking to just a cup of coffee for himself). While the three ate their food, Brandon had some time to think about what they would do. We definitely need to move on from the city and head to the next one soon, otherwise I'll be stuck taking these three two the gym here for the rest of my life. Traveling with a group would be safer than alone, but I'm already a number of days behind the group who has moved on...maybe I can see if Morgan wants to stick together if I see him again.

Norma and Perry had scarfed their food quickly once told that they would be heading back to watch a couple matches at the gym (Grey had just looked at Brandon before going back to picking at her food), excitedly pointing out that they were finished before hopping out of their seats to head out.

The stroll over to the gym was a quiet one, save for Norma and Perry running ahead and having to wait until Brandon and Grey caught up before doing it again. Once the gym came into view, Brandon noticed that there were a number of people beginning to line up outside. "You two ate your food so fast to try to get here early, and now it looks we came too early to walk in and too late to be first in line," he told his confused Pokemon once they had stopped and looked at the assortment of Trainers by the entrance.

Marill? Mar?

"We'll just have to line up with the rest of the Trainers to get inside. I'll ask someone about when it opens up. Lets stick close for now. And no fighting, Grey," Brandon added, looking down at the Pokemon who was clinging to his leg. After asking a few people who didn't know when it would open, Brandon walked up to two women who seemed to know each other.

"Hey uh, excuse me. Do either of you know when the gym will open? I'm assuming soon, but I don't think my Pokemon could take a long wait," he interjected, hoping that either one of them knew.

 

[SkyeNeko]

Bee bee beep, bee bee beep, bee bee beep

Eurydice turned off her alarm. Most of her pokemon still slept, save Ponyta, who stood there staring contemplatively at her trainer. "...Ready for breakfast?" she smiled, patting her muzzle. Eurydice hopped off the bed and took a quick shower, changing her clothes.

She snuck out of her room quietly with Ponyta, leaving the rest of her pokemon to sleep in while she got food. The smell of bacon and eggs wafted through the dining area. There was also some pokemon food provided, some in cans, some in little tubs. The attendant brought out some hay for Ponyta while Eurydice ate.

Back up in the room, all the pokemon got their own breakfasts while Eurydice watched the local news. The previous day's winners at the gym were displayed, along with some highlights. None of her battles made the cut, it seemed. Maybe I should go over there. Everyone didn't challenge him yesterday... It would be good to stay with a group of trainers for the routes between towns. In case of emergency, it was the best thing to do without powerful mons.

She got her bags together and headed out to the gym. There were some familiar faces there already. Eurydice waved as she walked up, ready to watch some matches before they head out. Heidi, she noticed, wasn't there yet. Had she already gone ahead?