Elysia stood resolute on her designated side of the Turffield Gym battlefield, her eyes unwaveringly fixed on Hop. The gym leader, acknowledging her swift return, offered a cordial yet determined expression, a silent recognition of the tenacity within her.

"I have to say I didn't expect you to try again that soon, but I suppose it is your father's blood that tells you to never give up," Hop remarked, a subtle nod to the legacy she carried.

In response, Elysia donned a confident smile, a mixture of assurance and respect, ready to face the challenges ahead. Behind her, Adrian and Owen stood in the visitor's spot, offering unwavering support to their friend. The number of spectators was noticeably fewer compared to Elysia's previous battle, a consequence of her unfortunate defeat still fresh in people's minds. However, this time, a determined energy emanated from her.

Right at the higher levels of the stadium, Ash positioned himself, carefully choosing a spot that not only avoided distractions for Elysia but also provided him with a complete view to assess his daughter's progress. Pikachu perched on his shoulder, both sharing a moment of anticipation for the battle about to unfold.

‘An early rematch? Either she's determined or trying to save her reputation. Let's see’

‘Can she really handle this rematch, or is it just another attempt to save face after that embarrassing defeat?’

‘She better make sure she doesn't embarrass the legendary Ash Ketchum with another lackluster performance’

‘Not convinced she's ready, but maybe surprises will happen. Let's see how this plays out’

As the anticipation built up in various regions, the streaming platform was abuzz with comments, most of them highly skeptical after Elysia’s first attempt. Those closer to her were tuned in to witness the World Monarch's daughter attempt to redeem herself.

In Kanto, Serena and Soren were glued to the Rotom pad, exchanging excited glances as they cheered for Elysia. They shared the screen with the rest of the family's large roster of Pokémon companions, many of them trying to find a spot to watch the battle.

In Alola, Lei had gathered and even forced some of the staff to watch the match, many of them chuckling awkwardly at another one of the Champion’s strange requests. The lively tropical atmosphere filled the room as they all rooted for Lei’s Little Sister.

Meanwhile, in the Sinnoh region, Auntie Cynthia enjoyed the battle in a more serene setting. She sipped her tea, occasionally dipping her favorite biscuits, as she awaited to observe her Brave Princess’s rematch with a discerning eye.

The referee's signal marked the commencement of the battle. Hop swiftly summoned his Stonjourner, and Elysia mirrored the action with her Meowth. The two Pokémon stood eye to eye, poised once again for their rematch.

Taking the initiative, Hop directed Stonjourner to unleash a Rock Tomb, aiming to encase the opponent and hinder its speed. Anticipating a nimble evasion from Elysia, he braced for her strategic maneuver. Contrary to expectations, the young trainer surprised him by instructing Meowth to employ Hone Claws,

Meowth's claws extended, emitting a vibrant red glow, and with precise timing, Elysia directed her Pokémon to execute a sweeping motion, shattering the boulders that sought to confine it. The unexpected clash of different approaches left spectators on the edge as they eagerly awaited the unfolding style contest between the World Monarch's daughter and the Turffield gym leader.

Hop, momentarily captivated by Elysia's improved strategy, found himself caught off guard.

"Now, Meowth. Use Metal Claw!" Elysia commanded, seizing the momentum. The agile feline Pokémon responded, launching itself toward Stonjourner with confidence, its claws gleaming with metallic intensity.

"Stonjourner, use Bulldoze!" Hop swiftly countered, realizing that a continued assault with rocks was now futile against Meowth's heightened attack. Stonjourner crashed into the ground, generating shockwaves that struck Meowth with a super-effective ground-type attack, sending it tumbling.

"Meowth! Are you okay?" Elysia worriedly inquired. In response, Meowth shook his head, emitting a low yet reassuring growl, demonstrating his resilience despite the powerful blow.

"No! I thought she had this!" Owen exclaimed, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and disappointment. He had been hopeful, witnessing Elysia's strategic improvement, only to see her initial advantage crumble.

"You mustn't ever get too confident, or you may face whatever you wanted to prevent in the first place," Adrian responded with a sage tone.

Elysia gritted her teeth, understanding how reckless she was when giving that command. She thought she had the perfect move to counter Hop's strategy, mirroring what occurred during her first match. Direct confrontation now seemed too risky, and sending a slower Meowth for a direct attack could expose it to another super-effective blow that would be challenging to evade. Unless....

"Stonjourner! Use Bulldoze once more!" Hop commanded, determination etched on his face. The Rock Pokémon crashed into the ground, sending shockwaves rippling through the battlefield.

"Meowth! Follow the rhythm of the waves and jump!" Elysia commanded with a focused intensity.

As the orange waves surged toward the opponent, Meowth demonstrated an uncanny ability to read the rhythm in a split second. It jumped just before the wave hit, then once more and for the third time, executing a graceful yet accurate movement that closed the distance between it and Stonjourner.

Hop and the rest of the spectators stared incredulously, witnessing an unexpected dance of evasion and precision.

"Now, Meowth! Finish it with a Metal Claw!"

The steel feline raised his powerful paw, gleaming with determination, and delivered a critical hit to his opponent. Stonjourner emitted a final growl as his solid body hit the ground, causing a dust cloud that dissipated after a moment. The swirls on his face indicated that he couldn't continue, and the referee, with a raised hand, declared Elysia as the victor of the first round. The unexpected turn of events echoed through the stadium, leaving both spectators and participants in awe. Elysia's strategic ingenuity had turned the tide in her favor.

Owen erupted into cheers, offering hearty congratulations to both Meowth and Elysia for securing a crucial advantage in the early match. From a distance, Ash and Pikachu joined in the celebration, their cheers echoing the excitement shared by spectators from various regions.

"Thanks, Stonjourner. You did a great job," Hop commended his partner before turning his attention to Elysia. "That was incredible. I'm surprised at how much you've improved in just a matter of days."

Elysia graciously acknowledged Hop's words, giving credit to her friends for their invaluable assistance. She added a note about Meowth's past as a member of a group of street performers before he joined her team, highlighting the unique experiences that contributed to his battle style.

Hop smiled, appreciating Elysia's humility. "Then I will honor your friends' help and improved skill with my very first partner," he declared, a moment of reflection and nostalgia evident in his eyes. As he released his next Pokémon, he called out, "Dubwool. I need your help here!"

Dubwool made a grand entrance onto the battlefield, his black and elegant horns proudly on display. Accompanying his presence was an energetic growl that resonated with confidence and readiness for the impending battle.

Elysia quickly consulted her Rotom Dex for information about the species she was not familiar with.

‘Dubwool, the sheep Pokémon and the evolved form of Wooloo. The wool that covers its sturdy body is extremely bouncy, offering an unusual but effective protection. For reasons yet unknown, Dubwools tend to disappear whenever a Beheeyem visits.’

"Too bad I didn't bring one with me,” Elysia quipped after listening to that last piece of information. “It may be an evolved Pokémon, but don't let that intimidate you, Meowth!"

Meowth nodded, a bit wary, and Hop remained unfazed, almost inviting Elysia to make the first move.

"Alright, Meowth! Use Metal Claw!" Elysia commanded.

Meowth leaped towards Dubwool, extending his claws for the attack as Elysia was anticipating a counter attack with Dubwool's long horns.

"Dubwool, receive it with your side," Hop calmly commanded.

To Meowth's surprise, upon its claws hit the side of Dubwool, the soft wool caused him to bounce back as if the feline had struck a trampoline. Due to Meowth's attack increase, the force that bounced him back was more than enough to send him flying upwards, leaving him completely exposed as he descended.

"Dubwool, use Double Kick!" Hop commanded.

The sheep Pokémon adeptly stood on its front legs. Just as Meowth was in the perfect position during its descent, Dubwool skillfully employed his hind legs to deliver two super-effective kicks, utilizing his hooves.

"M-Meowth! Are you alright?" Elysia worriedly asked as her partner struggled to stand up.

"Surprised, uh?" Hop interrupted her. "Many believe that Dubwool's horns are useful for battle so they try to either avoid them or prepare for a possible attack, but the truth is that they are only used for mating purposes."

Elysia couldn't help but feel guilty after making such a terrible prediction. She cheered up for Meowth, but his heavy breathing made it clear that he was about to reach his limit.

"Let's finish this! Dubwool, use Stomp!"

"Meowth, counterattack with Metal Claw!"

Dubwool rushed with a burst of energy, its hooves ready to deliver a powerful stomp. Despite its tiredness, Meowth braced itself, crossing its arms to form a makeshift shield. The clash of these two determined Pokémon sent shockwaves through the battlefield.

Elysia, watching with bated breath, knew that Meowth's pure will was not going to be enough. As her precious partner gave it all, she hurriedly brainstormed a strategy, her mind racing against the clock.

"Wait..." she muttered, her gaze fixated on Dubwool's black and well-polished horns. The tidbit of information about Dubwool's horns being used for mating purposes sparked an idea.

But it was too late. Meowth's resilience had finally given up, and he bore the full weight of Dubwool's Stomp. The impact sent Meowth into the ground, buried under the wooly adversary, and a cloud of dust billowed into the air.

As the dust settled, Meowth's fainted expression became evident. The referee, acknowledging the outcome, declared Hop the victor of the second round.

Elysia's expression darkened with concern. Her friends, family, and father shared in her disappointment. Retrieving Meowth, she expressed gratitude for his excellent performance. She then turned her attention back to her opponent, the haunting memories of her previous defeat weighed heavily on her mind, making her more anxious. Nevertheless, she remained determined to press on. Now, alongside her first partner, they were poised to demonstrate their resilience and ability to overcome their challenge.

"Gible, let's show them how strong we've become!" Elysia's voice carried a renewed determination as the little dragon burst into the battlefield, emitting a growl that resonated with newfound energy. Gible's eyes glinted with a fierce determination to prove itself.

Hop, ready for the next round, smiled confidently. "Dubwool, you did great. Now, let's face this challenge head-on!"

"Gible, use Sand Tomb!" Elysia commanded, aiming to decrease the opponent's speed.

"Dubwool, counter with Stomp on the ground to dissipate Gible's attack!" Hop responded.

Dubwool obeyed, stamping the field with such force that the lifted dust managed to block and merge Gible's sand cyclone, nullifying the damage and effects from the little dragon's move. Elysia and her partner were left with a mix of frustration and awareness. Hop had definitely set the bar higher this time, and she had to find another way to even hit the opponent.

As word spread about the intense battle, the Turffield’s gym, which previously had fewer than ten spectators, now found itself attracting dozens and dozens of curious onlookers. Trainers and passersby, drawn by the anticipation of witnessing Ash’s daughter’s potential redemption or another challenging setback, gathered to witness the evolving dynamics of the match. The atmosphere in the gym became charged with the collective energy of the growing crowd, all eager to capture the unfolding events, either through recordings or firsthand experience.

The sudden influx of spectators couldn't have come at a more challenging moment. Gible, despite giving his best, found it challenging to ignore the sheer size of the crowd, evident by a small sweat drop indicating his growing unease.

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"Gible, it's okay," Elysia reassured, her voice calm and sweet. "Remember what Dad told us. We'll find our strength in our weakness."

Gible turned its gaze toward its partner, absorbing the comforting energy in Elysia's words. With a nod, it began to feel more at ease, reassured by her tenderness and support.

Hop observed this unique and fitting approach Elysia took to address the situation, and he couldn't help but smile. In her, he saw the qualities of a true Pokémon trainer; she just needed to tap into them a bit more.

"Dubwool, use Double Kick!"

"Gible, use Dig!"

With a burst of energy, Gible swiftly burrowed into the ground just as Dubwool lunged forward with its Double Kick. The earth trembled as Gible disappeared from view, leaving Hop astonished by the unexpected maneuver. The crowd gasped, their anticipation growing as they tried to follow the battle.

"Yes! Now they have uncertainty on their side," Owen exclaimed, excitement written all over his face. "Your idea was perfect, Adrian!"

"Thanks, but this is just the beginning," Adrian responded with a knowing nod. "They cannot hide forever, so Elysia better have come up with a strategy to take complete advantage of that move."

Dubwool's anticipation was palpable as it shifted its gaze, ready for the moment Gible would resurface. The crowd held its breath, wondering what strategy Elysia had in mind for her elusive Pokémon. Time seemed to stretch as Gible took longer than usual below the surface, creating a sense of suspense.

"Well, Elysia. If Gible doesn't want to appear... Then we will force him!" Hop confidently declared. "Dubwool, Stomp the ground with all your strength and force him to get out!"

Elysia's confident smile faltered, replaced by a gasp of surprise.

Dubwool responded promptly, lifting his body and forcefully stomping the ground with powerful hooves. The battlefield quivered momentarily, and Gible was propelled from beneath the surface, just mere meters away from his opponent. The dragon's expression revealed his confusion at the abrupt disruption of his planned attack.

"There he is! Use Double Kick!" Hop commanded.

Dubwool swiftly carried out the attack, striking the descending Gible twice before it reached the ground.

"Gible! Are you alright?!" Elysia worriedly inquired. Her partner took a moment to stand up, and fortunately despite the slow, heavy breathing, Gible didn't seem to have suffered significant damage.

"Oh, no! Just when I thought they had it figured!" Owen's voice echoed with genuine disappointment, his initial excitement dimming as he watched the unexpected turn in the battle. The device to control his FlutterDrones was momentarily forgotten, capturing more of his concern than the unfolding action.

"They took quite a long time to execute their attack. They better not make the same mistake, or it will be all over again," Adrian remarked with a cold but accurate assessment.

From his spot, Ash maintained an unwavering focus on his daughter's struggle. His expression was a mix of concern and deep thought, the lines on his face betraying the weight of experience. Pikachu, perched on his shoulder, mirrored the seriousness of the situation with an attentive gaze.

"Let's try it once again. Gible, use Dig!" Elysia commanded, her confidence unwavering despite the shock she elicited from everyone, including her friends and father, with what appeared to be a risky move.

As Gible disappeared underground once again, it was only a matter of seconds before Hop would command Dubwool to stomp and recreate the previous scenario. The skepticism from the spectators quickly turned into vocal criticism.

"Are you out of your mind? That's useless!" yelled one of the onlookers.

"The girl must have crumbled under the pressure. Why opt for something that clearly doesn't work?" remarked another.

"It's official. She doesn't know how to battle," declared a third one.

More and more comments, both from inside the gym and online streaming, joined in a collective voice of criticism and even accusations aimed at the young trainer. Owen, now visibly upset by the negativity, tried to engage, but Adrian stopped him, pointing to Elysia. To Owen's surprise, she remained calm and indifferent, seemingly unfazed by the harsh words spoken against her.

As the gym staff attempted to diminish the crowd's noise and even issued warnings, Hop observed Elysia's composed demeanor. While he, like the majority, believed her strategy wasn't well thought out, he recognized his duty as a gym leader to honor her skills. If it led to another defeat from her part, then so be it.

"Dubwool, smash the ground and force him to get out once more!" Hop commanded, determined to follow through with the expected outcome.

But as Dubwool executed his trainer's order, Elysia smirked and muttered, "Got you..." The anticipation in the air was thick, and just when Dubwool released the energy from his attack, Gible propelled up mere inches in front of his opponent's head. The sheep Pokémon growled with a shocking sound, mirroring his trainer's expression, who had never anticipated that Gible had been hiding so dangerously close all that time.

“GIBLE! USE SCALE SHOT!"

Elysia yelled with a surge of determination, as if all the energy and sentiments she had kept for herself were given form and a target. Gible curled for a second, then his body glowed as he released the powerful white scales from his body. The scales shot through the air like a storm, creating a dazzling display. Totally exposed to Gible's attack, Dubwool received a direct hit on his face, a large cloud of energy and dust covering the outcome of the battle. The audience gasped in surprise at the unexpected turn of events.

A heavy and tense silence settled over the gym, amplifying the collective breath-holding of the audience. From those huddled around the battlefield to Ash and Pikachu observing from the higher level, every eye was fixed on the dissipating dust, awaiting the revelation of the battle's conclusion. Even Adrian betrayed a hint of nervous anticipation.

Gradually, Gible's form emerged from the settling dust, the little dragon visibly shaken and breathing heavily but standing tall. In stark contrast, Dubwool laid on the ground, its eyes swirling with the unmistakable sign of defeat.

The referee, seizing the moment, didn't prolong the suspense.

"Dubwool cannot continue! The winner is the challenger Elysia!"

The proclamation resonated through the gym, shattering the silence and unleashing a tidal wave of cheers and applause. Owen erupted in joy, the scattered audience joined in, and even some initially skeptical spectators couldn't help but be impressed by the unexpected triumph. The collective release of tension echoed through the gym, marking a moment of sheer elation for the determined young trainer.

Elysia stood on the battlefield, momentarily paralyzed as waves of excitement and cheers washed over her. It was as if the magnitude of the gathered enthusiasm required a moment for her to fully grasp what had just transpired. Her lips trembled, and tears welled up in her eyes before finally finding release.

"Yes, yes, yes! Gible, we did it! We really did!" she exclaimed, rushing to her partner and embracing him. Gible responded with an excited growl, his little arms waving in animated delight.

Owen and Adrian hurried to join the celebration, the young photographer eager to capture this victorious moment. "Congratulations on your first victory, Elysia," Adrian remarked with his usual composed demeanor.

In an unexpected burst of joy, she hugged both of them simultaneously. Her warm embrace caught them off guard, and even the usually composed Adrian couldn't hide a faint blush.

With a smile, and still without letting go of her embrace, Elysia pondered the question.

"What I said about waiting until after the second gym to travel together... Could you forget it and accompany me from now on, guys?"

Owen and Adrian exchanged glances, sharing a silent understanding. Without a word, they both smiled and nodded, returning the gesture to seal their commitment to continue to begin their journey together.

"And Adrian, we’ll always treasure what you did for us. You taught us the perfect move to help us overcome Gible's issues..." Her humility was cut short by the resounding cheers of the spectators, causing Gible to once again express his discomfort. "Well, at least we're working on it," she added with a smile, acknowledging the ongoing journey to overcome that fear.

From his spot at the top of the gym, Ash and Pikachu nodded in approval, the Monarch’s claps drowned out by the thunderous cheers of the spectators. Nostalgia washed over them, reminiscent of their own past victories following numerous struggles.

Across the regions, the infectious excitement reached Elysia's family. Serena and Soren joined the celebration, surrounded by the family's numerous Pokémon. The youngest sibling cheered for her big sister's success, contributing to the house’s festive atmosphere.

In Alola, Lei, almost choking two staff members of the Alolan league in his exuberance, joyfully chanted his little sister's name repeatedly. And in Sinnoh, Auntie Cynthia applauded in her refined and personal demeanor. Her Garchomp, acknowledging the victory of his own descendant, let out an energetic and prideful roar that resonated in Cynthia’s home with the success of Elysia and Gible.

Hop, appreciative of Dubwool's effort, recalled his Pokémon and approached Elysia. As he stepped forward, the young trainer shifted into a more serious and polite posture.

"That may be one of the best battles I've had in quite a while. You sure honor your family's lineage, Elysia," Hop declared with a genuine smile.

"I'm truly honored by your kind words, Leader Hop. And I appreciate the intensity and fun we had in this battle," Elysia responded, offering a respectful bow—an appropriate manner she had learned from her mother.

Hop chuckled, acknowledging the gesture with the same movement.

"Well then. Besides officially declaring you the victor in your very first gym challenge, I think this also belongs to you..."

With a flourish, Hop retrieved the prize from his lab coat's pocket—the wristband awarded to winners of the first gym that symbolized the distinctive power of Galar's battle style: the Dynamax Band.

Elysia received the item graciously and turned to show it to Gible. "Look, Gible! Now we can have Dynamax battles too! Isn't that great?" The little dragon responded with an excited growl, clearly sharing in the joy of their new accomplishment.

"So, Elysia. If you remember our first match, I told you that I make an extra effort to teach something special and unique to each of my challengers. Did you figure out what it is?" Hop posed the question, and Elysia took a moment to reflect, recalling the struggles, outcomes, and effort she and her Pokémon had faced to secure their victory.

"For me... I think it was realizing that weakness can be strength," she responded thoughtfully. "Sure, Gible and I still have a long way to go and overcome our insecurities, but with the support of our friends and family, we can find a way to turn it into an advantage. Just like when we used Dig: not only were we avoiding Gible getting nervous, but we also found a way to surprise you and Dubwool."

Hop nodded approvingly. "Yeah, that's an invaluable lesson. The truth is that everyone finds their own answer, and I'm glad yours is as enriching as it is wise. Just remember: there will be a time when you won't have to hide anymore."

"It can also work the other way around though," Elysia added. "At first glance, Dubwool's horns look like they're quite a useful and intimidating resource for battle, but when you pointed out that they were just ornamental, I realized the face was the most vulnerable and exposed part. Unlike his bouncy body."

Hop scratched his head. "Yeah, I got carried away with that piece of information. I'll have to be more careful from now on, don’t you think?"

As spectators approached to meet and personally congratulate the young trainer, some even asked for a photo with her and Gible. Though that kind of attention was not entirely to her liking, and was still concerned about her partner’s well being, they fulfilled the requests of their new and now growing fan base.

‘Well, she finally won something, but let's see if she can keep up the pace’

‘Major kudos to Elysia! That strategic use of Dig and Scale Shot was brilliant! She's showing real growth in her battling skills’

‘Did anyone else catch that determination in her eyes? She's got her father's spirit!’

‘Well, she won, but let's not forget it's just one victory. I'll reserve my judgment until she faces tougher challenges’

‘We are Ren’

After the spectators departed and Elysia's and Hop's Pokémon received a well-deserved checkup at the Pokémon Center, the group convened in the privacy of a room as they awaited for her father’s arrival..

Ash and Pikachu, taking precautions to remain incognito, entered the room. Ash, sporting sunglasses and inconspicuous attire, ensured there were no onlookers who could recognize them. They were determined not to let anyone disrupt their heartfelt congratulations to Elysia.

With a theatrical flourish, Ash removed his sunglasses, revealing a warm and proud smile. Pikachu, perched on his shoulder, exuded a palpable sense of accomplishment. Owen, once again, found himself entranced and rendered speechless in the presence of the World Monarch.

"Congratulations, Elysia!" Ash exclaimed, stepping forward to embrace and kiss his daughter. "You and Gible did an amazing job out there."

Elysia beamed, delighted by her father's approval. "Thanks, Dad. It means a lot."

Pikachu couldn't resist joining the celebration, offering an approving "Pika!" while nuzzling against Elysia's cheeks.

"Hop. It's been a while," said Ash as he now addressed the gym leader and exchanged a handshake.

"Indeed it has been quite some time. You and your wife must be proud by having raised such a talented girl."

"Thanks, Hop. That means a lot coming from you," Ash declared and then changed the topic for something he had been eager to ponder since his arrival in the region. "Is the Galar's league still forcing the rule of no more chances in the upcoming gym challengers?"

Hop shrugged his shoulders and let out a sigh, as if he also shared Ash’s concerns about what could be considered a quite strict rule.

"You know the champion. She's now more adamant than ever with her idea that Galar must remain the toughest one after how you pretty much humiliated her in the last World Coronation series."

Ash just laughed at what he considered an overreaction from the current Galar’s champion. "I was overwhelmed with such joy at that moment. I didn't mean to make her feel that way," he tried to excuse himself, his contagious laugh even reaching Hop.

Ending the subject, and getting his attention back to Elysia and Owen, Hop then addressed both victorious trainers for a final statement and advice.

"From now on, you are not allowed to lose a gym battle if you intend to enter Galar's league. So get ready because the real challenge is about to begin,” said Hop as he put his hands on both trainer’s shoulders. "I have big expectations for both of you. So learn together, get stronger, and I'll see you at the end of your challenge. Oh, and if you see my nephew Rory on your way there, send him my regards. He's currently the gym leader of Hammerlock after Raihan retired, but has the habit of going here and there as he pleases, just like his old man."

"We won't disappoint," Elysia affirmed, a fire in her eyes matching the spark in Owen's. "And I'll make sure to pass along your regards if we cross paths with your nephew."

"As long as we remain together, no one will stop us!" Owen exclaimed with an overconfident tone. "Not even bad guys like those Team Rocket grunts we faced on Slumbering…!"

Elysia swiftly covered his mouth with her hand, attempting to halt the unintended revelation, but the truth had already been unveiled.

"Wait, Owen, did you say Team Rocket?" Ash inquired, then gazed at his daughter, seeking confirmation of the unexpected confession. “Elysia, the thieves you told me about were members of Team Rocket!?”

The celebratory mood took a sharp turn into somber tension. Adrian closed his eyes, releasing a sigh. For him, it was only a matter of time before the World Monarch discovered their encounter with Team Rocket, but he lamented that it occurred during the celebration.

Even Hop found himself uncomfortable with the unfolding scene. As someone familiar with the events of Team Rocket's last stand in which his brother Leon participated more than ten years ago, he could partially understand why Ash was concerned about his daughter having faced members of the criminal organization that caused so much pain.

Elysia attempted to face her father, but she couldn't meet his gaze directly. Even Pikachu had adopted a serious expression, mirroring his trainer's concern.

"I-I didn't want to make you worried, Dad. So..."

But her attempted explanation was abruptly halted by the only word her father rarely used to address her when he was truly upset.

"Young lady, you better tell me everything right now."