The sun hung low in the sky, its warm glow casting long shadows across the streets of Petalburg City. After the battles, the energy had shifted, the intense focus on strategy giving way to the more relaxing part of the day. Trainers who had secured their spots in the Top 64 were now scattering through the town, grabbing food, taking walks, or just resting in preparation for the next round.
I walked alongside Flannery and Roxanne, still riding the high from my win against Eric. Han’s Pokéball rested comfortably on my belt, but he wasn’t inside it. Instead, he was trotting by my side, chest puffed out, and glancing around as if he was the king of the world.. Bodhi, though a little more drained, walked contentedly next to Roxanne’s Terra, the Nosepass who had been watching her battles with the same quiet, focused intensity.
The air was warm, but there was a nice breeze coming off the coast, making it a little more bearable in the May heat. Flannery had suggested we take a break at the ice cream shop, something I wasn’t going to argue with. After all the tension of battle, a cold treat sounded like exactly what I needed.
The ice cream shop sat on the corner of a street near the Pokémon Center—a small place with a cheery blue awning and tables set up outside. Inside, the counters were lined with a wide array of flavors, each one more colorful than the last. Trainers and their Pokémon were scattered around, most of them already indulging in cones or bowls of ice cream.
“Ahh, this place is perfect!” Flannery said, stretching her arms out with a grin. “Ice cream after a battle? What more could you ask for in this heat?”
I nodded in agreement. “Yeah, it's been a long day. Feels good to just chill for a bit.”
The shop’s owner, a cheerful older man with a round face, stood behind the counter with his Vanilluxe, the Ice-type Pokémon hovering beside him, two heads gleaming as they exhaled cool mist into the shop. The Vanilluxe seemed to be enjoying the attention, swirling the mist to keep the shop pleasantly cool, which was more than welcome in the early summer heat.
"Welcome!" the owner greeted us with a wide smile. “The best ice cream in Hoenn, all freshly made. Vanilluxe here helps me with the freezing process.” He gestured proudly at the floating ice cream Pokémon, who grinned and twirled slightly, making the mist swirl around us.
Flannery leaned over the counter, eyes wide with excitement as she scanned the rows of flavors. “Okay, I already know what I want—Red Velvet for me!” She pointed eagerly at the bright red scoop sitting in the glass case.
Roxanne, who had been quietly observing the flavors, finally gave a small smile. “I’ll take a scoop of Rocky Road, please. Always been a favorite of mine.”
I chuckled, then glanced at the options. “I’ll go with Cookies and Cream. Classic.”
The owner scooped out our choices and handed them over along with bowls of Pokémon-friendly ice cream for our teams. As we made our way to one of the outdoor tables, Han immediately started digging into his ice cream with gusto, his tail wagging as he practically inhaled the treat. Bodhi was more methodical, taking small bites and savoring each one, his eyes half-closed in contentment. Terra remained stoic, even while licking at its bowl, Rocky like Han just dug in with just as much energy, Titan on the other hand was licking at it although i have to admit he seems more interested with the metal bowl used to serve the ice cream than the ice cream itself. while Numsy and Santi took their time enjoying their icy treats as well.
“Man, this is exactly what I needed,” Flannery said, sitting back and taking a bite of her ice cream. “The heat’s no joke today, but this makes it bearable.”
I took a bite of mine, the cool sweetness of the Cookies and Cream melting on my tongue. “Yeah, it’s a good break after all the battles. I don’t know how you handled that match in this heat, though,” I added, glancing at Flannery. “Your Pokémon are literally made of fire, and they still seemed fresh after that win.”
Flannery grinned, brushing a strand of red hair from her face. “Numsy and Santi are used to it. Lavaridge Town’s no different—it’s basically a volcano, after all. Heat’s just part of the package when you're working with Fire-types.” She then gestured toward Han. “Speaking of fresh, though—Han’s speed was insane today. That Thunder Barrage was something else. You’ve been working him hard, haven’t you?”
I nodded, feeling a bit of pride. “Yeah, we’ve been practicing that combo for a while now. I wanted something that would surprise our opponents, something versatile that could change the pace of a battle.”
“It worked,” Flannery said, licking her ice cream. “That Wingull didn’t stand a chance. I couldn’t believe how fast Han closed the gap on it.”
Roxanne chimed in, her voice thoughtful. “Speed like that will definitely be an asset, but it’s not just speed. It’s control. You’ve trained Han well, and it shows. Still, you’ll need to watch out for opponents that can outlast his offensive bursts. A trainer with defensive strategies could slow Han down.”
I mulled that over, nodding. “You’re probably right. Han’s all about hitting fast and hard, but if someone stalls him out... I’ll need to work on that.”
“What about you guys?” I asked, turning the conversation around. “You both won today, right?” I asked since unlike them who were able to watch my match, i wasn’t able to watch their matches because i had to bring Han and Bodhi to the pokemon center to get them checked right after my match.
Flannery nodded eagerly, her eyes gleaming. “Yep! Santi was a beast out there. His defense is crazy—he tanked two Water Pulses like they were nothing, and then used Heat Wave to take down my opponent’s Barboach.”
“That’s impressive,” I said, leaning forward. “Sounds like he’s a solid wall in battle.”
“He’s got the endurance,” Flannery agreed. “But honestly, I think my next battle might be tough if I come across another Water-type user. I’m going to need to keep Numsy on standby just in case.”
Roxanne, meanwhile, had a more measured response to her victory. “Terra was strong, as usual. Nosepass may not be fast, but with Stealth Rock and Rock Tomb, I was able to control the battlefield and whittle down my opponent’s team. They had a Beautifly, but the Rock-type advantage worked out in our favor.”
I nodded, impressed. “You’ve both got great strategies. Looks like we’re all bringing our best to this tournament.”
As we sat there, enjoying our ice cream and the casual conversation, the subject shifted to dreams and goals, something that I hadn’t given a lot of thought to in the chaos of the past few weeks.
“So, what’s the big goal for you guys?” I asked, taking another bite of my ice cream. “I mean, we’re all here for the tournament, but what do you want to do in the long run?”
Flannery was the first to answer, her voice brimming with confidence. “I want to take over my family’s gym in Lavaridge Town someday. My grandpa, Fino Moore, used to be in the Elite Four, but now he runs the gym. He’s a legend, you know? But he’s getting older, and I want to keep the family legacy going.” She paused, her expression softening. “I’ve got big shoes to fill, but I’m ready. I just need to prove it, one step at a time.”
“That’s amazing,” Roxanne said with genuine admiration. “Carrying on a legacy like that is no small thing.”
Flannery grinned. “Yeah, it’s a lot of pressure, but I love it. I mean, it’s fire—what’s not to love?”
Roxanne chuckled before turning more thoughtful. “For me, it’s a bit different. I love battling, but my true passion is teaching. Rustboro Training Academy has sponsored my journey because they see potential in me. Once I’ve learned enough and made a name for myself, I want to go back and teach there. I want to inspire the next generation of trainers, and maybe even use my position to fund my research on fossil Pokémon.”
Her eyes lit up as she mentioned fossils. “There’s so much about ancient Pokémon that we don’t understand. If I can balance teaching and research, it would be a dream come true.”
I could see the passion in her eyes, and it made me think about my own goals. I shifted uncomfortably for a moment before speaking. “Honestly? I’m not entirely sure what I want yet. Part of me wants to win the Ever Grande Conference and maybe even join the Elite Four someday. But there’s another part of me that just... wants to travel. I want to see the world, explore different regions, and experience everything they have to offer.”
I paused, looking at both of them. “I think, for now, I just want to see how far I can go.”
Flannery took another big bite of her Red Velvet ice cream, looking thoughtful as she listened. “I get that, wanting to explore the world. Lavaridge has always been home, but I’ve always felt like there’s more out there, you know? Like, I want to run the gym, but I also want to see what’s beyond the next mountain. Traveling, meeting different trainers, learning new things—it just makes you better.”
Roxanne nodded, her expression more serious as she adjusted her glasses. “That’s why traveling is so important for trainers. If you only stay in one place, you limit your growth. Battling new opponents, adapting to different strategies—that’s how you evolve as both a trainer and a person.”
I leaned back in my chair, watching as Han devoured the last of his ice cream, licking the bowl with his usual enthusiasm. “I guess it’s about finding balance, then. You both have really clear goals, but I feel like I’m still figuring it out. I mean, winning the Conference would be incredible, but I also don’t want to lose sight of everything else along the way.”
Flannery laughed. “Hey, there’s no rule that says you have to figure it all out right away. I mean, look at me—I know I want to take over the gym, but that doesn’t mean I’m not gonna take my time getting there. My grandpa can hold down the fort for a while longer. I want to make sure I’m the best version of myself before I step into his shoes.”
Roxanne smiled softly, her usual calm demeanor showing a touch of warmth. “I think that’s what’s great about being on a journey like this. We’re all learning, no matter how clear or uncertain our paths might seem. The battles, the people we meet—it all adds to our understanding of what we want.”
As the conversation flowed, I found myself relaxing more and more. It was easy to get caught up in the intensity of the tournament, but moments like this—just talking, enjoying ice cream with friends—reminded me that there was more to this journey than winning battles. There were friendships being forged, stories being shared.
Flannery leaned forward suddenly, her eyes twinkling mischievously. “Speaking of the Conference—who do you guys think is going to win it this year?”
I shrugged, grinning. “I don’t know, but I’d like to think we’ve all got a shot. There are going to be a lot of strong trainers, though.”
Flannery chuckled, her confidence radiating. “I’ll bet on me. I’m planning to take the Ever Grande Conference by storm!”
I laughed, shaking my head. “Of course you are. But seriously, who do you think we should watch out for?”
Roxanne had been quiet for a moment, a thoughtful expression on her face as she finished her Rocky Road. Finally, she spoke up, a little more serious than before. “There’s someone who’s definitely going to be a big contender. You probably haven’t heard of him yet, but... one of my childhood friends, Steven Stone, started his journey last year. He’s only recently begun collecting badges, but he’s been making huge waves.”
Flannery raised an eyebrow. “Steven Stone? Sounds familiar. Isn’t his family big in the mining business?”
Roxanne nodded. “Yeah, that’s him. His family owns Devon Corporation in Rustboro City. But Steven isn’t interested in taking over the company. He’s always been obsessed with stones, but not just any stones—evolution stones, fossils, rare minerals. He’s a bit of a collector. You name it—Fire Stones, Water Stones, Thunder Stones—he has them. But his real passion is battling, and he’s been building up quite the team.”
I leaned forward, intrigued. “What kind of Pokémon does he have?”
“He’s a Steel-type specialist,” Roxanne said, a small smile tugging at her lips. “His Metang is already incredibly powerful, and he’s built a solid team around it. He’s got a Claydol that’s perfect for confusing opponents with its Psychic abilities, a Lairon that can tank hits, and even a Corviknight to cover his team’s flying needs. His most recent addition is a Tinkaton, and he’s been training a Bisharp too.”
Flannery let out a low whistle. “That’s a tough lineup. Steel-types can be hard to crack, especially with that kind of variety backing them up.”
“Exactly,” Roxanne continued, her eyes bright with pride for her friend. “Steven’s approach is methodical. He might not be the fastest in battle, but he’s patient, and his Pokémon hit like a freight train when they get going. He’s definitely someone to watch out for this season.”
I leaned back in my chair, trying to absorb everything Roxanne had just said about Steven. It wasn’t just the strength of his team that caught my attention—it was the fact that I knew exactly who he was. Steven Stone, the future Champion. In the games, he was the final test of the Hoenn League, the unbeatable master of Steel-types. My heart raced as I processed the fact that here, in this world, I might actually face him someday.
The thought made me nervous—and excited.
But there was something different about this Steven. Roxanne had mentioned his line-up Corviknight and Tinkaton... these weren’t Pokémon I remembered from his usual lineup. His team was different compared to what i imagined. It makes me wonder what else differs here from the canon timeline.
On the other hand though I also felt a surge of excitement. Could I really end up facing someone destined to be Champion? The idea of testing my skills against a future legend sent a thrill through me, but it also brought a wave of anxiety. How would I fare against someone like that?
Flannery, oblivious to my internal crisis, grinned. “A Pseudo-legendary and all those other strong Pokémon, huh? Sounds like he’s going to be a real challenge in the Conference.”
Roxanne nodded, her tone serious. “He will be. Steven’s not rushing his journey. He’s patient, always thinking ahead. That makes him dangerous. But I don’t think any of us are planning to back down.”
I forced a smile, trying to match their confidence. “Yeah, I guess we’ll all have to keep an eye on him.”
As the conversation shifted back to the tournament, I tried to focus, pushing the thought of Steven to the back of my mind for now. There were plenty of tough trainers ahead of me before I even needed to worry about that kind of battle. First things first—I had to get through the next round.
I thought about that for a moment, my mind wandering. Staying at the top—what would that even feel like? Was it something I wanted? I could picture it, the idea of standing in a stadium, a crowd cheering, knowing that I’d proven myself as one of the strongest trainers in the region. But part of me still wanted more than just titles and trophies. I wanted the adventure, the unknown.
“Okay, thats enough about the conference for now,” I said, shifting the conversation. “Flannery, I have to ask—what’s it like growing up in Lavaridge? I’ve never been there, but I’ve always imagined it must be wild living so close to an active volcano.”
Flannery grinned, her face lighting up with enthusiasm. “It’s amazing, honestly. The heat is intense, but you get used to it. The best part is the hot springs. My grandpa always says that the natural heat of the volcano helps make the Pokémon there stronger, like they’re being tempered by fire. Numsy and Santi were raised in those conditions, so they’re practically built for battle.”
She paused, her expression growing softer as she continued. “But it’s not just about the strength. There’s something about the atmosphere in Lavaridge—the community, the way everyone’s connected through the gym and the town’s history. It’s a small place, but it has so much heart. That’s why I want to take over the gym one day. It’s not just about the battles—it’s about preserving that legacy.”
“That sounds incredible,” I said, genuinely impressed. “It must be a lot of pressure, though. Your grandpa being an ex-Elite Four member and all.”
Flannery nodded. “Yeah, it is. He’s a tough act to follow, but he’s always supported me. He’s the one who taught me that it’s not just about being strong—it’s about knowing who you are as a trainer, finding your own style, and owning it.”
Roxanne chimed in, her voice thoughtful. “That’s great advice. Every trainer needs to develop their own identity in battle. That’s something I try to focus on when I’m studying or training. For me, it’s all about using my knowledge to gain an advantage. That’s why I’m so passionate about fossils and ancient Pokémon. There’s so much we can learn from the past, and that knowledge can be applied to how we approach battles today.”
“Speaking of fossils,” I said, leaning forward, “what’s your favorite ancient Pokémon? You’ve got to have one, right?”
Roxanne’s eyes lit up, and she smiled. “Definitely Cradily. It’s a Rock- and Grass-type, and its adaptability is incredible. I’ve been fascinated with how it uses its environment to trap and defeat its opponents. It’s not the flashiest Pokémon, but its tactics are brilliant.”
I smiled, listening as she continued to talk about fossil Pokémon. It was clear how much she cared about the subject, and it made me appreciate her approach to training even more. Roxanne wasn’t just a battler—she was a thinker, someone who always looked for ways to improve through knowledge.
“So, you want to teach at the Rustboro Training Academy one day?” I asked, steering the conversation back to her goal. “That sounds like a great fit for you.”
Roxanne nodded, her voice soft but full of determination. “Yes. Teaching has always been a passion of mine. I think there’s so much value in sharing what you know with others, especially younger trainers who are just starting out. The academy’s been supportive of my journey, and I want to give back by helping the next generation of trainers. And if I can fund my fossil research along the way, even better.”
“That’s amazing,” I said, genuinely impressed. “You’ve got a clear path ahead of you.”
Roxanne smiled. “Thanks. It’s been a long road, but I’m excited to see where it leads.”
We sat there for a while longer, the conversation flowing easily between us as we shared stories, hopes, and dreams. It felt good to open up, to hear what drove my friends and to think about my own journey. I still wasn’t entirely sure where I was headed, but for the first time, that uncertainty didn’t scare me. It felt like an adventure waiting to unfold.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over Petalburg, the three of us grew quieter, the energy from the day starting to wind down. Vanilluxe, was running around the ice cream shop, floating past, collecting empty dishes and refilling water bowls for the Pokémon lounging nearby. The cool evening air was a welcome relief after the heat of the day, and the ice cream had been a perfect way to unwind. The conversation continued, flowing easily as the sun dipped lower, casting a warm, golden glow over the city. The Pokémon were relaxed, the battlefields quieting down as the day wound to a close. We talked about everything—our dreams, our Pokémon, the friends we’d made along the way.
It wasn’t just about winning anymore. It was about the adventure, the growth, and the friendships we were forging with every step.
As the night deepened, we finally said our goodbyes and headed back to the Pokémon Center. Tomorrow, we’d face new battles, new challenges. But tonight, I felt more ready than ever.
‘
‘
The sun was just beginning to rise, casting soft golden light over the wide-open fields behind the Pokémon Center. The grass was still wet with dew, and the air was cool, fresh—a perfect morning for some training. I had woken up early, as i always did, my mind too full of thoughts about the upcoming battles to stay in bed. So with Han and Bodhi we set off to do our early morning warm-up and training routine. Just like back in my own world, waking up early and training always helped to clear my mind of any problems or trials i had to face on the day.
Han ran beside me, his small form darting ahead every now and then, his energy as boundless as ever. Even this early in the morning, his steps were light, and his eyes shone with excitement, as if the previous day’s battles had only fueled his drive. Every so often, he’d toss a few punches in the air, his paws crackling faintly with electricity.
“Easy, Han. Save some of that for later,” I chuckled, though I knew telling him to slow down was pointless. Han never seemed to tire—he thrived on movement, always ready for the next challenge.
On the other hand, Bodhi took a more measured approach. He trotted along behind us at a steady pace, conserving his energy. He was focused, his eyes scanning the field as he followed our path. Where Han was all about quick bursts of energy, Bodhi was calm and methodical, just like during our battles. He wasn’t flashy, but he knew when to act, and I appreciated that.
We finished another lap, and I slowed to a jog, giving both of them a moment to catch their breath. Bodhi, still relaxed, barely broke a sweat, while Han bounced on his toes, ready for more.
“Alright, guys,” I said, turning toward the open field. “Let’s get some practice in before breakfast.”
I directed Han and Bodhi to opposite ends of the field and worked through some basic drills. For Han, it was all about honing his speed and power. He practiced his signature Thunder Barrage, a series of quick, electrified punches followed by an uppercut. I watched closely as he launched into his routine—his punches were sharp and controlled, each one packed with precision. He followed up with Mach Punch to keep his speed up, then mixed in some Arm Thrusts to keep his versatility in check.
“Nice, Han,” I called out. “Keep those punches tight.”
Meanwhile, Bodhi was focused on his Spore and Leech Seed combinations. The plan was to make sure he could reliably hit with these status moves, setting the pace of battles early on. He’d throw out a cloud of Spore and quickly follow up with Leech Seed, targeting a nearby practice dummy we had set up the night before. His accuracy was improving—more seeds were landing, and I could see how much smoother his movements had become.
I nodded in approval. “Good work, Bodhi. Let’s add some Seed Bomb into that.”
I was about to call for a break when I noticed Flannery and Roxanne approaching from the far side of the field. Both of them were up early too. A welcoming surprise knowing that as much of a fiery personality Flannery had, she apparently wasn’t that much of a morning person.
Flannery waved as she approached, Santi the Torkoal moving at a slow but steady pace behind her. Numsy, her Numel, was bounding beside her, steam puffing out of his nostrils with every step.
“Morning!” Flannery called, her voice bright. “Figured you’d be out here early.”
I smiled back. “Can’t afford to waste any time, right?”
Roxanne walked up beside Flannery, her usual calm demeanor in place. Titan, her Aron, moved eagerly at her heels, while Rocky, her Rhyhorn, plodded along steadily behind her. Terra, her Nosepass, looked just as stoic as ever, though its eyes flicked between the rest of us, alert and ready.
“It’s smart to get some training in before things get too busy.” said Roxanne, a slight smile on her face.
“Yeah,” I replied, glancing at Han, who was still working through his combo moves. “But we’re keeping things light. Don’t want to reveal too much before the real battles begin.”
Flannery grinned, her eyes glinting with playful competition. “Same here. Numsy and Santi are warming up, but I’ve got a few tricks I’m saving for later.”
Roxanne’s Pokémon were just as disciplined. Rocky and Titan faced off, with Titan using Metal Claw to try and chip away at Rocky’s defenses, while Rocky countered with Stomp and Bulldoze. Roxanne observed them with a sharp eye, offering corrections but keeping her strategies close to her chest.
After a while, we all headed back toward the Pokémon Center for breakfast. The air had warmed up a bit, and the city was coming alive as more trainers began to stir, preparing for another day of battles.
‘
‘
Inside the Pokémon Center, the smell of breakfast filled the air—Miltank Moo Moo Milk, fresh eggs, and what looked like Tauros bacon sizzling on the griddle. The three of us grabbed a table near the window, letting our Pokémon stretch out beside us.
We each ordered the Trainer Special: a hearty plate of eggs, toast, bacon, and a side of fresh fruit, with a cold bottle of Moo Moo Milk to wash it down. Even the Pokémon were treated to something special—a protein-packed mix of Pokémon food topped with berries for an extra boost.
Han dug into his food with gusto, his eyes bright as he scarfed down his meal. Bodhi, as usual, took a more reserved approach, eating slowly and savoring each bite. Across the table, Santi rumbled softly as he chewed on his breakfast, while Numsy practically inhaled his food, steam puffing from his nostrils in delight. Rocky and Titan ate with the same focus they applied to their training, while Terra sat silently, keeping a steady watch on the group.
“Man, this is good,” Flannery said between bites, taking a long sip of her Moo Moo Milk. “Can’t beat a proper breakfast before a big day.”
Roxanne nodded, her eyes glancing toward the window where the tournament grounds were just starting to fill up with trainers. “We’re going to need the energy. Today’s matches are going to be a lot tougher than yesterday.”
“Yeah,” I said, thinking back to my match with Eric. “The competition’s definitely going to step up. I’m trying to make sure Han and Bodhi are as ready as possible.”
“You handled yesterday’s battles well,” Roxanne said, her voice thoughtful. “Bodhi was especially impressive, controlling the pace with his Leech Seed and Poison Powder. You made your opponent work for every hit.”
Flannery nodded in agreement. “Yeah, I’ll admit it. That was smart. And Han—well, let’s just say he’s living up to his reputation. Fast, hard-hitting, and unpredictable.”
I smiled, feeling a sense of pride. “We’ve been practicing a lot, but there’s always room to improve. I’m just hoping we don’t get too caught off guard by anything.”
Roxanne, finishing off her last bite of breakfast, gave a small nod. “We all have to stay sharp. Every match is a new challenge.”
Flannery leaned back in her chair, her grin mischievous. “Especially with us getting closer to facing off against each other. I’m looking forward to that.”
We laughed, though I could feel the seriousness behind the joke. We all knew that soon enough, it wouldn’t just be about advancing—it would be about facing off against each other.
As the conversation flowed, we talked about our Pokémon, each of us trying to gauge how the others were feeling about the day’s matches. The tension was still there, but there was also a sense of excitement. It wasn’t just about winning anymore—it was about proving ourselves, pushing our teams to the limit.
With breakfast finished, we gathered our things, ready to face the battles ahead. Our Pokémon, fed and full of energy, were as eager as we were to get started.
“Time to make some waves,” Flannery said with a grin, cracking her knuckles as she stood. “Let’s see who’s really got what it takes.”
I nodded, glancing at Han, who was already bouncing on his toes, his eyes locked on the horizon. Bodhi, as usual, stood quietly beside me, calm but focused. This was it—the real test was just beginning.
The air felt different as we made our way back to the tournament grounds. The usual morning calm had been replaced by a buzzing energy, the kind that made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. We were in the Top 64 now, and the stakes felt higher. The tournament grounds, which had been relatively quiet yesterday, were now packed with trainers, spectators, and vendors.
As we approached the main entrance, I noticed how much the crowd had grown. Rows of bleachers were filling up with people eager to watch the next round of battles. Trainers and their Pokémon moved through the grounds, some looking nervous, others calm and confident. You could see it in their faces—they all knew that the competition was only going to get tougher from here.
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Han, as always, walked beside me, his steps light and full of energy. His fur crackled with faint sparks as he shadowboxed the air, never one to stay still for long. Bodhi, on the other hand, stayed close but quiet, his demeanor calm and focused, as if mentally preparing for the battle ahead.
“You can feel it in the air, huh?” Flannery said, her voice charged with excitement. She was walking just ahead of us with Santi the Torkoal by her side. Numsy trotted alongside, his steps matching Flannery’s enthusiasm. “Today’s gonna be intense.”
Roxanne nodded, her usual composed expression in place. “Everyone’s more focused now. No one wants to slip up, especially this close to the later rounds.”
I could see it too. Trainers who had been joking and laughing yesterday were now gathered in small groups, going over last-minute strategies. Some were busy prepping their Pokémon with warm-ups, while others seemed deep in thought, eyes flicking toward the tournament board to see their upcoming match-ups.
As we approached the registration board, I scanned the names for my next opponent. There it was: Michael Kane vs. Curtis Farrell. I didn’t recognize the name, but seeing his Pokémon—a Trapinch and a Gligar—told me everything I needed to know. Ground-types. This was going to be a tough one.
“Ground-types, huh?” Flannery peered over my shoulder, noticing the name on the board. “Trapinch and Gligar. You better be ready for those—Trapinch hits hard, and Gligar’s got that Flying-type advantage, but most importantly they’re both ground types so other than Bodhi, Han might have a bit of a difficult time with this matchup knowing that most of his moves would be rendered ineffective against them.”
I nodded, already running through strategies in my head. “Yeah, I’ll have to stay on my toes, but don’t worry we’ve planned for this eventuality, and have a few tricks up our sleeves when it comes to combating against ground types”
“Besides, how am i supposed to face you guys in the finals if i get beat by something like type advantage right?.” I gave a small smile, though my stomach was already twisting in knots at the thought of the upcoming battle. This wasn’t going to be easy, but nothing was at this stage. “You guys know who you’re up against?”
Flannery flashed a grin. “Oh yeah. Some guy named Finn Wheeler. He’s got a Linoone and a Lotad. Santi’s gonna have fun with that.”
“And I’m facing a trainer with Electric-types,” Roxanne added. “Should be a challenge, but Rocky and Terra are up to it.”
We exchanged a few more words, each of us feeling the weight of our upcoming matches. There wasn’t much room for playful banter anymore. The tournament was narrowing down, and we all knew that soon enough, we might have to face each other. But for now, it was about staying focused.
“Alright,” I said, taking a deep breath as I felt the weight of the moment settle on my shoulders. “Let’s do this.”
As we split off to prepare for our respective battles, I couldn’t help but glance back at the leaderboard one last time. The Top 64—it felt surreal to be here. But now was no time to get caught up in the excitement. I had to keep my head clear. I had to focus.
‘
‘
The tournament arena felt much more intense than it had the day before. The sunlight bounced off the dirt field, casting long shadows from the raised platforms where spectators gathered. Trainers and their Pokémon filled the area, all of them focused on the battles taking place across multiple fields. The crowd was bigger, louder, and the stakes were higher.
I walked to my designated spot, Han at my side and Bodhi still resting in his Pokéball. The tension in the air was palpable, a steady hum of excitement running through the crowd. I could hear faint cheers coming from other battles nearby, but I shut it out, focusing on the task ahead.
Across the field, I spotted Curtis. He was standing tall, his Trapinch already out in front of him, glaring across the battlefield with its powerful jaws clicking rhythmically. Curtis had a confident smile on his face, the kind of look that said he had seen his share of battles.
“Ready for this, Michael?” he called out, raising an eyebrow. “I’ve heard your Pawmo’s made a little name for itself—speedy, strong, packing a real punch. Let’s see how your electric-type fares against something immune to its shocks.”
I smirked, rolling Bodhi’s Pokéball in my hand. “I’ve trained hard for this. Don’t expect me to rely on just electricity.”
Curtis chuckled. “Good. I don’t like easy battles anyway.”
The referee stepped forward, raising the flags to signal the start of the match. “This is a two-on-two battle between Michael Kane and Curtis Farrell! Trainers, send out your first Pokémon!”
With a flick of my wrist, I released Bodhi onto the field. He landed lightly, already eyeing the Trapinch with his usual calm. The two Pokémon stared each other down, sizing up their opponent.
The crowd murmured with anticipation, but all I could focus on was the feeling of the battle ahead, my mind already running through strategies. I knew Trapinch was slow but powerful. I’d have to stay sharp, keep Bodhi moving, and use every advantage we had.
“Alright, Bodhi,” I said, my voice steady as I took a breath. “Let’s make this count.”
The battle began with the tension thick in the air. Curtis and I stood at opposite ends of the battlefield, the crowd buzzing with anticipation. As the referee's flag dropped, Curtis wasted no time calling out his first command.
“Trapinch, Dig!” he shouted.
Trapinch burrowed underground in an instant, disappearing from sight. I had anticipated this. Trapinch might be slow above ground, but once it got below, it could move fast and hit hard.
“Bodhi, get ready!” I called. “Spore Guard!”
Bodhi’s eyes narrowed, and he settled into a defensive stance. Just as we had practiced, he released a swirling cloud of spores—both Poison Powder and Spore, creating a dense fog of status effects around him. The combo was designed for close-quarters attacks like this.
The ground below us trembled as Trapinch launched up from beneath, its powerful jaws snapping toward Bodhi in a Bite attack. The bite landed, but so did our trap—Trapinch inhaled the poisonous and sleep-inducing cloud of spores, its tiny eyes growing hazy almost immediately. The effects of Effect Spore kicked in, worsening the status conditions as the toxins seeped in faster.
Curtis’s expression shifted from confidence to frustration. “No way—Trapinch, snap out of it!”
But it was too late. The combination of Spore and Poison Powder was already working its magic, and Trapinch was beginning to sway on its feet, drowsy and sluggish. It wouldn’t be long before the sleep took over.
“Now, Bodhi!” I called out. “Seed Bomb Barrage!”
Bodhi responded instantly, firing off three rounds of Seed Bombs in quick succession. The glowing seeds hit their target with pinpoint accuracy, and Trapinch, weakened from the status conditions, couldn’t dodge. The hits landed hard, knocking Trapinch back with each impact until, finally, the Ground-type collapsed, completely knocked out.
The crowd erupted in murmurs, impressed by the swift victory.
Curtis scowled, clearly caught off guard by how quickly his Trapinch had fallen. “Not bad, but let’s see how you handle this!” He recalled Trapinch and sent out his second Pokémon. “Go, Gligar!”
The Pokéball burst open with a flash of light, and Gligar emerged, flapping its wings as it hovered in the air. The Ground/Flying-type Pokémon let out a shrill cry, its claws flexing menacingly as it circled above the battlefield. Its eyes locked onto Bodhi, who was visibly tired from his bout with Trapinch.
“Bodhi, stay sharp,” I warned, but I could see the fatigue starting to weigh on him. He’d taken Trapinch down quickly, but the battle had drained him more than I realized.
“Sandstorm!” Curtis commanded.
Gligar flapped its wings hard, summoning a swirling cloud of sand that obscured the battlefield. The gusts of sand hit Bodhi, making it difficult for him to see, and I squinted, trying to keep my focus on Gligar’s movements through the storm.
“Now, Quick Attack!” Curtis yelled.
Gligar moved like a blur through the sandstorm, closing the distance between itself and Bodhi in seconds. Before Bodhi could react, Gligar slammed into him, sending him skidding back across the battlefield.
“Use Spore Guard!” I shouted, but before Bodhi could release the cloud of spores, Curtis ordered Gligar to back off.
“Swift!” Curtis called.
From the sandstorm, Gligar unleashed a barrage of glowing stars that rained down on Bodhi. He tried to fend them off, but the constant hits were wearing him down. Gligar, hidden in the sandstorm, was playing this fight smart—hit-and-run tactics, never staying in one place for too long.
Curtis wasn’t giving us any room to breathe. “Now, finish it! Quick Attack into Ice Fang!”
Bodhi braced himself, but Gligar was too fast. It appeared from the sandstorm with its fangs glowing icy blue, sinking them into Bodhi’s side. The cold from the Ice Fang made Bodhi cry out in pain, and Gligar followed through by slamming him into the ground before pulling back to fire off a Mud-Slap to seal the deal.
Bodhi was out.
The referee raised a flag. “Bodhi is unable to battle. Gligar is the winner of this round!”
I gritted my teeth as I recalled Bodhi., my mind reeling. I hadn’t expected to lose Bodhi so quickly. He was supposed to be our stall machine, our status wielder. I hadn’t prepared well enough for a Pokémon like Gligar, and that realization stung more than I wanted to admit.
This wasn’t how I imagined the battle going. Bodhi had been knocked out, and now I had only Han left to face Gligar—a Pokémon that had a natural edge against both Electric and Fighting moves. I felt a wave of uncertainty wash over me. Could we even pull this off?
I took a deep breath and steadied myself. I couldn’t give in to doubt now. “Han, it’s up to you. Let’s do this.”
Han stepped forward, cracking his knuckles and narrowing his eyes at Gligar, who hovered confidently in the air. Despite the disadvantage, Han’s determination was palpable. He wasn’t one to back down from a fight, especially not after seeing his teammate fall.
Curtis crossed his arms confidently. “You know, Ground-types aren’t affected by Electric moves, and Flying-types resist Fighting. I’m in a good spot here.”
“Han’s more than just his typing,” I shot back, my voice filled with conviction. “We’ve trained for this.”
Curtis chuckled, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes. “We’ll see. Gligar, Sandstorm and Swift!”
Gligar flapped its wings again, whipping the sandstorm into an even fiercer frenzy. The gusts of sand and wind swirled around Han, making it hard for him to see. Gligar then sent another wave of Swift stars through the storm, aiming to chip away at Han’s health from a distance.
“Stay sharp, Han!” I called out.
Han dodged the first few stars with incredible speed, weaving through the onslaught with a boxer’s precision. But some of the stars clipped him, leaving him wincing from the hits. Despite the sandstorm and the barrage of stars, Han kept his focus, his eyes locked on the vague shape of Gligar in the storm.
Curtis smirked. “You think you can dodge forever? Gligar, get in close! Wing Attack!”
Through the swirling sand, I saw Gligar shift its flight pattern, diving down toward Han. Its wings spread wide, gleaming as they cut through the air. My mind raced, knowing that Wing Attack could deal serious damage, especially with Han’s Fighting-type disadvantage.
I quickly assessed the situation.
“Han, wait for it…!”
Han stood his ground, his stance low and ready. Gligar closed in, its wings slicing through the air with terrifying speed. At the very last second, just as Gligar swooped in, I shouted, “Now! Jump! Mach Barrage!”
Han leapt into the air, his reflexes honed from countless hours of training. He flipped over Gligar, dodging the Wing Attack with perfect timing. As he landed on Gligar’s back, Han unleashed a furious series of Mach Punches, each one striking Gligar with precision. The rapid blows hit Gligar square in the head, sending the Pokemon careening toward the ground, dazed and disoriented.
The crowd gasped as Gligar crashed into the dirt, struggling to regain its bearings. Curtis’s smirk had vanished, replaced by a look of frustration. “Get up, Gligar! We’re not done yet! Use Take Down!”
Gligar shook off the daze and charged at Han with reckless abandon, its body glowing with energy as it prepared for a full-force Take Down. I knew Gligar’s strength, but I also knew Curtis was getting desperate. He was going all-in, trying to finish us off with one powerful hit.
“Watch the path, Han!” I shouted. “Dodge it!”
Han braced himself, watching Gligar’s telegraphed movements closely. At the last moment, just as Gligar barreled forward, Han sidestepped the attack with a burst of speed. The Take Down missed, sending Gligar stumbling past.
But Curtis wasn’t done. “Gligar, Tail Whip!”
Before Han could react, Gligar whipped its tail around, striking Han directly in the face and sending him flying backward. Han hit the ground hard, the impact leaving him dazed. Gligar immediately followed up with another Swift, the glowing stars pelting Han as he struggled to get up.
“Come on, Han, you’ve got this!” I yelled, my heart pounding. Han was tough, but the relentless attacks were taking their toll.
Gligar, sensing victory, charged forward with Quick Attack, preparing to land the finishing blow with Mud-Slap. But Han wasn’t out yet. With a burst of determination, he used Quick Attack of his own, his body a blur as he dodged Gligar’s strike at the last second.
“Now, Arm Thrust!”
Han closed the gap and unleashed a barrage of Arm Thrusts, each hit landing with a satisfying thud. Gligar reeled from the force of the attacks, its energy fading fast. Curtis called out in desperation, but it was too late.
“Finish it! Mach Punch!” I shouted.
With one final burst of speed, Han delivered a powerful uppercut with Mach Punch, striking Gligar squarely on the chin. The impact sent Gligar flying backward, and it crashed into the ground, knocked out cold.
The referee raised the flag. “The winner is Michael Kane!”
The crowd erupted into applause as Curtis scowled, clearly frustrated by the loss. He returned his Gligar and approached me, shaking his head.
“I didn’t think a Pawmo would pull that off,” Curtis said, though he couldn’t hide the respect in his voice. “Your Pawmo’s strong, and fast. Good battle.”
I shook his hand firmly, still catching my breath from the intensity of the match. Han stood beside me, fists still clenched, his eyes never leaving Curtis—his fighting spirit as strong as ever.
“You’ve got nothing to be ashamed of, Curtis,” I replied, giving him a nod of respect. “Your Gligar’s tactics were spot on, and you had the upper hand in terms of typing. I really wasn’t sure we could pull it off.”
Curtis scratched the back of his head, his frustration easing into a small smile. “Thanks, man. Honestly, I thought I had it in the bag with Gligar’s typing. But your Pawmo… that thing's relentless. I’ll admit, I didn’t see that Mach Barrage coming.”
I glanced at Han, who was still catching his breath but had a proud gleam in his eyes. “We had to get creative. We knew Gligar would be tough. You didn’t make it easy, that’s for sure.”
Curtis chuckled softly, his frustration fading. “Well, it’s clear you’ve put in the work. I’ll be honest—I didn’t think much about this match going in, but now… yeah, I get why people were talking about you. You’ve got something good with that Pawmo.”
I couldn’t help but grin at that. “Thanks, but you’re no slouch either. That Gligar’s a beast, and Trapinch gave Bodhi a real challenge. You’ve got some strong Pokémon.”
Curtis shrugged, his expression softening into something more thoughtful. “Yeah, we’ve been training hard. But today was a wake-up call. Need to be better prepared for trainers like you. The next time we battle though, don’t expect the fight to go like how it did today.”
I grinned, feeling the camaraderie between us solidify. “I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Curtis extended his hand, this time with genuine respect. “Good luck with the rest of the tournament, man. You’ve earned it.”
I shook his hand firmly. “Same to you. Keep pushing forward.”
With that, Curtis gave a nod and headed off the field, leaving me and Han to bask in the victory. As the crowd continued to cheer, I looked down at Han, who was still brimming with energy despite the tough battle. He met my gaze, a spark of excitement in his eyes.
“We did it, Han,” I said, ruffling his fur. “One step closer to the top.”
‘
‘
The afternoon sun hung lazily in the sky as we settled into the outdoor seating area of the Pokémon Center. The weight of the day’s battles had eased, replaced with a mix of satisfaction and quiet anticipation for the next round. Flannery, Roxanne, and I talked and discussed how our battles went under the cool cover of a large oak tree, its shade offering a welcome break from the heat. Han, Bodhi, and the others were out with us, each of them unwinding in their own way after the long fights.
Han, naturally, was still buzzing with energy, though even he had slowed down a bit. He sat at my feet, nibbling on a Poké Puff, eyes darting around as if waiting for the next challenge to spring out of nowhere. Bodhi, meanwhile, looked serene, nestled comfortably against the base of the tree, absorbing the warmth of the day. His small frame seemed to sink into the ground, his eyes half-lidded in contentment as he munched on a seed-based treat.
Across from us, Flannery’s Numel, Numsy, and her Torkoal, Santi, were both sprawled out, the heat hardly fazing them. Numsy let out small puffs of steam from his nostrils every now and then, while Santi lay next to a bowl of water, lazily sipping between deep breaths of hot air.
Roxanne’s team looked equally at ease. Terra, her Nosepass, was still as a statue, his rocky body glistening in the sun. Beside him, Titan and Rocky, her Aron and Rhyhorn, were resting after their earlier matches. Titan was lying flat on his stomach, letting out small grumbles as he enjoyed a fresh berry snack. Rocky was of the same mind, fashioning himself his own bed of dirt to sprawl in.
As we continued to discuss on how each of us dealt with our respective opponents, a waiter came over, balancing a tray full of hearty food. "Tauros burgers with Moo Moo Milk," he announced cheerfully, setting the plates down in front of us.
The smell of grilled Tauros filled the air, and my stomach growled. I hadn’t realized just how hungry I was until the food was in front of me. Han’s nose twitched, clearly interested in the scent of the food too, though I handed him another Poké Puff to keep him satisfied.
Flannery leaned back in her chair, taking a long sip of her milk. “Man, I needed this. There’s nothing like a good meal after a battle.”
I nodded, taking a big bite of my burger. The mix of flavors was perfect—smoky, savory, and just enough kick to keep things interesting. “You’re right,” I said between bites. “Feels like we’ve been going non-stop all day.”
Roxanne was already halfway through her meal, eating with quiet efficiency. “It’s important to recharge,” she said with a small smile. “Not just us—our Pokémon too. The battles are only going to get tougher.”
She wasn’t wrong. The top 32 will be even more intense, and we all knew it. But for now, it felt good to just sit back and enjoy the moment. The sound of other trainers chatting and the occasional bark of a Pokémon in the distance blended into the background, creating a relaxed atmosphere that helped ease the tension.
As we ate, I glanced down at Bodhi. He seemed fully relaxed, but I could tell he was still recovering from the intense fight against Curtis’ Gligar. I reached down and patted his head gently. “You did great today, Bodhi.”
He opened one eye, giving a slow nod before going back to his treat.
Numsy let out a soft huff, his own battle with Flannery still fresh in his mind. Flannery laughed, scratching behind his ears. “Don’t worry, buddy. You did awesome too. Right, Santi?” she said, turning to her Torkoal. Santi, ever stoic, gave a slow blink before exhaling a small plume of steam.
“Today was a good test for all of us,” Roxanne chimed in, brushing a crumb off her lap. “Even if the battles weren’t perfect, we learned a lot.”
I glanced over at Han, who had just polished off his treat and was now staring at my plate with interest. “Yeah, I guess the tournament’s only going to get harder from here.”
As the last bites of our meal disappeared and the shadows grew longer in the late afternoon sun, the conversation naturally drifted back to the tournament. The lightheartedness we’d shared over lunch was slowly giving way to the familiar weight of competition. Tomorrow would bring another set of battles, and we all knew they would be tougher than today’s.
Flannery leaned back in her chair, stretching her arms with a satisfied sigh. "I can't wait for tomorrow. It’s gonna be even more intense. Santi and I are going to light it up," she said, her eyes flashing with excitement.
Roxanne, ever the analytical one, nodded thoughtfully. "The competition’s thinning out. We need to be sharper tomorrow if we want to make it through. I have a few strategies in mind for Rocky and Terra, but...," she trailed off, a sly smile creeping onto her face, "I think it’s best if I keep them to myself for now."
Flannery pouted, narrowing her eyes playfully. "Oh, so you’re going all secretive now, huh? Not even a whif of what you plan to even do. Fine, fine—keep your plans. But just know, when the time comes, I’m going to burn through whatever you've got. Trust me." She smirked, her usual fiery confidence bubbling up again.
Roxanne chuckled, pushing up her glasses with a practiced motion. "I’ll look forward to it. But remember—fire may burn bright, but rocks bury and smother flames. We’ll see whose strategy holds out." She gave a slight grin, her tone competitive but playful.
I watched the two of them, feeling the competitiveness rise between them. The energy was infectious. As much as they were friends, the thought of facing each other in the tournament was clearly pushing them both to dig deeper.
Flannery shot a look my way, a teasing glint in her eyes. "What about you, Michael? You gonna hide your training plans too? Or are you just as secretive as Miss Stone-Eyes over here?"
I laughed, shaking my head. "Oh, I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve. Between the three of us, I’d say I’ve got the most balance in style. Fire, rock—it won’t matter. Han and I are gonna blast through both of you!" I added with a mock-serious face, puffing out my chest for effect.
As if on cue, Han hopped onto my shoulder, a stick in his mouth like a cigar, chest puffed out and arms crossed. He gave a resounding “Pawmo!” as sparks flickered from his fur, and we all burst into laughter.
Flannery laughed so hard she nearly spilled her Moo Moo Milk. "Okay, okay, I’ll admit—Han’s got style!"
Roxanne, wiping a tear from her eye, grinned. "But will that style hold up when he’s buried under Terra’s weight?"
Before I could fire back, Flannery raised her glass of Moo Moo Milk, looking between us. "All jokes aside, here’s to not getting knocked out before we face each other. Let’s make it to the top, and when we do, may the best trainer win."
We all raised our glasses in a mock toast, the playful competitiveness simmering beneath the surface. But beneath it all, there was a genuine sense of camaraderie. We had pushed each other to be better, and no matter what happened, we were all walking this path together.
As we got up to leave, the sun now a warm glow on the horizon, we promised each other that we wouldn’t lose to anyone else. "Not until we meet on the battlefield," Roxanne said firmly, her eyes gleaming with determination.
Flannery nodded. "Agreed. Let’s make sure it’s one of us at the top."
I couldn’t help but smile, feeling both the weight of the challenge and the excitement of it all. "We’ve got this. No one’s going home early." we wouldn’t let anyone else knock us out of the tournament. If we were going to lose, it would be to each other.
With that, we parted ways, each of us headed back to prepare for the next round. As I walked away, Han still perched on my shoulder, I felt the energy from our conversation linger. We weren’t just rivals—we were friends who pushed each other to be stronger. Tomorrow would be another step, and no matter the outcome, we’d face it together.
‘
‘
The next few days passed quicker than I had anticipated. After my matches against Curtis and Eric, I found myself slipping into the rhythm of the tournament more easily than I’d expected. Those early battles had made me sharpen my focus—both Curtis and Eric had pushed me, forced me to think creatively and adapt. But as I progressed into the top 64 and beyond, I realized something: not everyone was at the same level.
I had to keep reminding myself that this was, after all, a rookie tournament. There were plenty of trainers with potential, sure, but there were also just as many who didn’t seem to have worked as hard. How some of them managed to get to the top 32, I didn’t know. It wasn’t like I was breezing through every fight, but compared to Curtis and Eric, the competition in the next rounds felt... less intense.
I guess that's just how it goes—some rookies have natural talent, others are still figuring it out. By the time I reached the top 32, I was feeling more comfortable, even confident. And it wasn’t just my battles. Over the days, I found myself getting more comfortable around Flannery and Roxanne, too. At first, being thrown into this world felt disorienting, but now, it was like everything had finally clicked into place.
Here, I could just be myself. I didn’t feel like I had to be someone else like I always did back in my old life. I was free to enjoy life for what it was, to enjoy this journey, even all the excitement, the challenges, the connections I was making—it all felt right.Sure, there would be hard times ahead, but for once, I wasn’t worried about facing them alone. With Han by my side and new friends like Flannery and Roxanne, I finally had people and even pokémon who would support me, no matter what. For the first time in a long time, I felt at home.
That said, my next two fights went smoother than I expected, and the next thing i knew I found myself slotting comfortably into the top 8.
Roxanne, on the other hand, had a much closer call. She nearly lost her match in the top 16 when her opponent threw out both a Roselia and a Snover. The type advantage had her on the back foot, but Roxanne’s cool-headedness and strategic mind carried her through. She didn’t panic, and with a combination of Terra’s durability and Rocky’s strength, she managed to turn things around, securing her place in the top 8 as well.
Flannery? Well, she didn’t seem to care much about type matchups. Whether her opponents brought Water-types, Ground-types, or anything in between, she barreled through with her fiery enthusiasm, never holding back. Santi, her Torkoal, might not have been the fastest Pokémon, but the sheer power behind his moves—and Flannery’s aggressive style—put her in the top 8 right alongside Roxanne and me.
So, here we were, sitting outside the Pokémon Center, waiting for the announcements of who we’d be facing tomorrow. The air was warm, and even though we were nearing the finals, the conversation stayed light. None of us were talking about training or strategies now. We’d gotten too far to start tipping our hands to one another.
“Top 8,” Flannery said, stretching out her arms, her voice filled with pride. “I can’t believe we made it this far. Heh, who am I kidding? Of course, we did—we’re awesome, right Santi?” She grinned down at her Torkoal, who responded with a slow puff of smoke.
Santi’s smoke happened to drift right in my direction, and before I knew it, I was coughing, waving my hand in front of my face trying to get the smoke away. “GAH, Flan-Flan! Not again—smoke in my face!” I groaned, wiping at my eyes.
Just then, Han jumped onto my lap, holding Bodhi’s legs in his paws like some kind of impromptu umbrella, trying to block the smoke. Bodhi, eyes wide and clearly unprepared for Han’s sudden antics, looked at me in pure panic.
“Pawmo!!” Han shouted triumphantly, spinning Bodhi around like a top.
“Shroomish!” Bodhi yelped, his voice tinged with frustration as Han kept spinning him faster and faster, until finally, with the smoke cleared, Han let go. Bodhi staggered for a moment, trying to regain his balance, wobbling slightly before shooting Han a sharp glare.
Han, ever the mischief-maker, grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. But before he could react, Bodhi hit him with a quick Spore attack. Han’s eyes fluttered shut as he collapsed onto the ground, out cold.
I sighed, shaking my head as I reached down to pick Han up. “Sorry about that, Bodhi. Didn’t think he’d pull something like that.” Bodhi, still a little grumpy, gave me a small nod before plopping himself down on my lap and closing his eyes, resting.
Flannery, meanwhile, was laughing so hard she could barely breathe. “Oh man, your Pawmo is a riot!” She scooted closer, pinching my cheeks in mock irritation. “And stop calling me Flan-Flan! You know I hate that!”
I grinned, unrepentant. “I can’t help it, Flan-Flan. It’s just too good to pass up.” Honestly though, I couldn't resist poking fun at her childhood nickname, something she had offhandedly mentioned the day before when telling us a story about how she and Numsy snuck out when she was a kid.
She huffed, folding her arms, her face still flushed with laughter. “You’re never going to stop, are you?”
“Maybe… if you win the tournament,” I teased, raising an eyebrow. “But until then, Flan-Flan it is.”
Flannery shot me a mock glare, her pout exaggerated. “Grr, watch me! I’ll burn your team black and blue, and then I’ll fry you afterward!” she declared, her eyes flashing with fiery determination.
From across the table, Roxanne looked up from her book—she’d been quietly reading through her fossil research while we goofed off. She glanced at us, then at her Nosepass, Terra, who was sitting as stoically as ever next to her. Without saying a word, the two exchanged a look. It was a shared understanding, like they were silently acknowledging the chaos around them.
Roxanne shook her head slightly, adjusting her glasses with a small smile. “It’s like being surrounded by children,” she muttered, clearly amused by the antics.
Flannery laughed again, nudging Roxanne with her elbow. “Hey, don’t act like you don’t enjoy it. Besides, you won’t be so calm when I wipe the floor with your rocks.”
Roxanne raised an eyebrow, her competitive side showing just a hint as she set down her book. “We’ll see about that. My ‘rocks,’ as you call them, might just smother your flames before you get the chance.”
Before Flannery could retort, a familiar chime rang out from the nearby screen at the Pokémon Center, signaling that the updated matchups had been posted. Trainers crowded around, eager to see who they'd be battling next. Flannery, Roxanne, and I exchanged glances, the playful mood now mixed with anticipation. We got up from our seats, our Pokémon trailing behind us as we made our way to the screen.
Flannery peered over my shoulder as I scanned the list. My eyes widened when I saw the matchup: Michael Kane vs. Flannery Moore.
“Well, looks like it’s finally happening,” I said, turning to Flannery with a grin.
Flannery’s face lit up with excitement, her eyes flashing with competitive fire. “Oh, it’s on! You and your electric punches are gonna get a taste of my flames, and trust me, you won’t be ready for it.”
“Don’t get too cocky,” I shot back, though I couldn’t help but smile. “Han and Bodhi are tougher than you think.”
“Yeah, well, Santi and Numsy are ready to burn through anything you throw at us!” Flannery retorted, crossing her arms with a determined look.
Roxanne, who had been scrolling through the matchups, chimed in, “Looks like I’ll be facing a Dark-type trainer.” Her voice was calm, but her eyes were sharp as she read the details. “A Sneasel and a Pawniard. Interesting combination.”
Flannery whistled. “A Dark-type user, huh? Gonna be tough, but I’ve seen what your team can do. Should be a good match.”
Roxanne nodded, her mind already shifting into strategy mode. “Dark-types have their advantages, but Terra and Rocky will be able to handle them. I’ll just have to be careful with Sneasel’s speed.”
I gave Roxanne a pat on the shoulder. “You’ve got this. You’re way too prepared to let a Sneasel or Pawniard catch you off guard.”
She smiled, though it was that quiet, determined smile that showed she was already thinking several moves ahead. “Let’s just say I’ll be ready for whatever comes my way.”
The air between us was charged now, not just with the excitement of the upcoming matches, but with the realization that we were finally about to face each other. We had grown close during the tournament, but now, our bonds as friends and rivals would be tested in battle.
Flannery grinned, but there was a competitive edge in her voice. “Alright, no more goofing off. Tomorrow, we’re leaving it all on the battlefield.”
I nodded, my excitement matching hers. “Agreed. May the best trainer win.”
Roxanne pushed up her glasses, giving us both a sly smile. “Just remember—whoever wins don’t get too cocky, you still have to face me.”
I grinned and shot back, “Oh, don’t worry, Roxanne. After I beat Flan-Flan over here, I’ll save just enough energy to give you a nice rock slide out of the tournament.”
Flannery groaned, “Ugh, bad puns already? You’re going down just for that!”
I grinned and shrugged. “Oh, come on, you can’t burn me just for a few bad puns.”
Flannery scoffed, crossing her arms with a grin. “Oh please, by the time I'm done with you, you’ll be too fried to even think about climbing.”
I raised an eyebrow, leaning forward. “Fried? If anything, I’ll be lightly toasted—just the perfect level of crisp to take on Roxanne’s boulders.”
Roxanne chuckled, shaking her head. “You two are way too confident. I’m just gonna enjoy watching the fireworks before I step in and finish the job.”
I smirked. “Hey, feel free to watch. Just make sure to take notes. You’re going to need them.”
Flannery laughed. “Yeah, notes on how fast I’ll be cooking both of you.”
The laughter gradually died down, leaving a comfortable silence between the three of us. The tension of friendly rivalry still lingered in the air, but there was also a mutual respect we all felt. Tomorrow would be the real test.
Flannery stretched her arms above her head, giving a casual yawn. “Alright, no more jokes for tonight. Santi and I need to get some serious training in before tomorrow. Gotta make sure we’re all fired up and ready.”
I chuckled. “Better hope you don’t burn out before the big match.”
Flannery shot me a playful glare. “Oh, we’re going to burn alright—straight through you. Just wait.”
Roxanne stood up, dusting off her skirt. “Well, I think it’s time I prepare too. Terra and Rocky need a little more work before our match. Can’t let my ‘rocks’ crumble under pressure.”
I paused, realizing she’d just dropped a pun, and a smirk tugged at the corner of my mouth. “Did you just—hold on, did you actually make a pun just now?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.
Flannery, who had been sipping water quietly up until now, nearly choked. She shot Roxanne a look, wide-eyed and amused. “No way, Roxanne. You never make puns!”
Roxanne shrugged with a small, satisfied smile. “There’s a first time for everything.”
I chuckled, shaking my head. “Well, in that case, I’ll make sure Han and Bodhi don’t crumble under the pressure either. But don’t worry, I’ll save just enough to wipe the floor with you after i deal with Flan-flan over here.”
Flannery rolled her eyes with a grin. “You’re talking a big game for someone who’s about to get smoked.”
We all laughed, the tension lightened for a moment as we shared one last look before splitting off to train. I couldn’t help but feel the weight of what was coming. Tomorrow would be the hardest day of the tournament yet, and none of us were going to make it easy for each other.
“Well,” I said, turning toward the path that led to the outskirts of town, “don’t get too comfortable tonight. Tomorrow, no holding back.”
Flannery flashed me a grin. “Same goes for you.”
With a few more parting words, we went our separate ways, the weight of tomorrow’s battles slowly settling in. As I headed toward the quieter side of the training fields, Han and Bodhi by my side, I could feel my mind already running through strategies. Tomorrow would be the toughest day yet, and we had to be ready.
There was no room for mistakes.