The air in the Pewter City Gym hung heavy with dust and tension as Rin stepped onto the rocky battlefield, her crimson eyes alight with challenge. Her pristine white outfit, now slightly scuffed from simply existing in the gym, contrasted sharply with the rugged terrain. She brushed invisible dirt off her skirt with deliberate elegance, ignoring Mordred's unimpressed stare and Misty's mild exasperation.
"This filth shall not sully my victory," Rin declared, pointing dramatically toward gym trainer. "Prepare thyself, srub. My outfit has dirt! Prepare to spend thy days in the ER!?"
Gym trainer Eddie sweatdropped at the girl. Its not his fault blame Flint. He would have say this to the girl's face but the downright 'I will end you stare' gave him the chills.
He had seen all kinds of challengers, but this one? She felt like she belonged in a palace, not a gym.
"Uh… okay?" Eddie stammered, fidgeting under Rin's unrelenting gaze.
Ashlyn, seated in the private booth with Misty and Mordred, leaned forward with a grin. "She's really going all in, huh?" The tomboy pressed a button in intercom. "Kick his ass already, Princess Sass!"
"More like she's about to break him mentally before the match even starts," Misty muttered, shaking her head.
Mordred, however, crossed her arms and smirked. "Mayhap the boy shall surrender before the duel even commences. T'would be wise."
Rin, hearing them, and even scaring Eddie even more as her voice rang throught the battle area shot a glance over her shoulder. "Silence, knaves. This is no mere 'battle.' This is an execution, and I shan't be distracted by the peanut gallery."
Mordred chuckled darkly. "Execute well then, sister."
Gasps rippled through the audience as the Rotom Drone projected a live feed overhead, the viewer count rapidly climbing. The holographic screen showed Rin's profile, her previous wins, and her Trainer Rank as Bronze Rookie.
"This will be a Gauntlet-Style Battle! The challenger must face three Gym Trainers before fighting the Gym Leader. No healing or substitutions between rounds!"
Misty leaned forward, her eyes wide. "Did I just hear that right? No healing? No subs?!"
Ashlyn pumped her fist. "Hell yeah! That's Rin—go big or go home!"
The referee continued. "High-Stakes Clause Accepted! Should the challenger fail, her Trainer License will be revoked!"
Misty's jaw dropped. "She agreed to what?! Is she insane?!"
Rin smirked as the murmurs of disbelief spread. "'Tis no gamble when victory is assured." She raised her glittering Pokéball high. "Let this trial of stones and steel begin. Rotom, show them the contenders."
The Rotom Drone buzzed overhead, its voice taking on an excited tone as the viewer count continued to surge.
"Live Viewers: 62,874! Broadcasting to Kanto! The match has entered Premier Rank Streaming Mode! Gym Battle stakes are set! Challenger Rin Hunter-Pendragon faces elimination!"
The crowd roared as more spectators flooded the stands, drawn by the rare high-stakes format. The drone's holographic feed captured Rin's calm smirk as she stepped into position.
Announcer Rotom: "First up, we have Gym Trainer Eddie! A veteran of Pewter City's defensive style, Eddie's Pokémon specialize in durability and heavy hits. Facing him is none other than Rin Hunter-Pendragon—Pallet Town's rising star! Known for her sharp tongue, royal presence, and strategic mind, she's here to prove why she's a force to be reckoned with!"
Name: Eddie Rockridge
Hometown: Pewter City
Rank: Intermediate Gym Trainer
Fight Style: Defensive setups, status effects, and devastating counterattacks
Graveler (Rock/Ground – Level 43)
Ability: Sturdy
Moves: Stone Edge, Earthquake, Explosion, Stealth Rock, Rollout, Iron Defense, Rock Blast, Sandstorm, Body Press, Curse, Double-Edge, Hammer Arm
Rhyhorn (Ground/Rock – Level 44)
Ability: Lightning Rod
Moves: Megahorn, Bulldoze, Smack Down, Drill Run, Rock Polish, Scary Face, Horn Drill, Iron Tail, Rock Slide, Take Down, Scorching Sands, Counter.
"Match Start!"
"Lush, let's start this match out right!"
The referee raised his arm, cutting through the crowd's rising noise. "Let the match begin!"
The Rotom drone buzzed overhead, capturing every movement as Rin flicked her wrist, sending her Pokéball spinning through the air.
"Arise, Lush!" Rin's voice rang out with dramatic flair as the Pokéball burst open in a flash of light.
Vespiquen materialized midair, her wings humming ominously as her golden-striped body gleamed under the harsh lights. The Silver Powder around her neck glinted faintly, adding to her regal presence. She hovered above the rocky terrain, her sharp, predatory gaze locking onto Graveler.
Eddie swallowed hard, already regretting every decision that had led him to this moment. "Uh… Graveler, Stealth Rock!"
The rock Pokémon slammed its fists into the ground, sending jagged stones scattering across Rin's side of the battlefield. They embedded themselves in the dirt, glowing faintly—a ticking time bomb for any switch-ins. Eddie grinned, a flicker of confidence returning. "Got you locked down now! Let's see how that fancy queen handles my battlefield traps!"
Rin, however, tilted her head slightly, her crimson eyes gleaming like rubies under the lights. "Locked down?" she echoed mockingly. "Oh, thou poor fool. 'Tis not I who art trapped. Lush—Toxic Spikes and Spikes. Layer them well."
The Vespiquen's wings thrummed louder, and with a sweeping motion, she released a shimmering rain of poisonous barbs and sharp, jagged stones across Eddie's side of the battlefield. The toxic spikes pulsed with venomous energy, promising to punish any Pokémon foolish enough to touch the ground.
The crowd murmured, their eyes glued to the traps covering both sides of the field.
Eddie's smirk faltered as realization dawned. "Wait—what the hell? You're setting up too?!"
Rin folded her arms, her expression regal and imperious. "Didst thou believe thy petty pebbles would slow my advance? Nay. I am not here to be slowed—I am here to conquer. And Lush…" She extended a hand toward her Pokémon. "…shall render this field unfit for thy wretched kin to tread."
Ashlyn leaned into the intercom from the booth, laughing. "Oh damn, she's flexing already! Eddie, buddy, I'd call your mom and have her on standby!"
Mordred smirked, her voice smooth and sharp. "Eddie hath no recourse but to surrender or be buried under the weight of his own miscalculation."
Eddie gritted his teeth, trying to hold his focus. "Graveler, Stone Edge! Knock that bug out of the sky!"
Graveler slammed its fists into the ground again, sharp rocks launching toward Lush in a deadly arc.
"Defend Order." Rin's voice rang out like a queen issuing judgment.
Lush raised her arms, summoning a swirling barrier of glowing hexagons that absorbed the incoming barrage. The rocks shattered harmlessly against the shield, leaving Graveler wide-eyed and Eddie red-faced.
"Are you kidding me?!" Eddie shouted.
"Hardly." Rin raised her chin. "And now, 'tis time to end thy miserable attempt. Lush—Attack Order. Strike swiftly."
The Vespiquen's wings roared to life as glowing drones materialized and swarmed toward Graveler. They rained down like a furious army, bombarding the rock-type's weakened defenses.
Graveler staggered, cracks forming across its rocky exterior as it let out a pained groan.
"D-Don't give up! Explosion!"
Rin smirked. "Protect."
Graveler detonated in a violent burst of light and force, but Lush's shimmering barrier formed just in time, shielding her from the blast. When the smoke cleared, Graveler was down, and Lush hovered untouched.
"Graveler is unable to battle!" the referee called, raising his flag toward Rin.
The Rotom drone buzzed overhead. "And there you have it, folks! Rin's Vespiquen shrugs off the first round without so much as a scratch! A flawless defense!"
Eddie groaned, recalling Graveler. "You're not getting through Rhyhorn that easy!"
Rhyhorn burst forth in a flash of light, landing hard enough to shake the field. It snorted and lowered its horn, glaring at Lush.
The toxic spikes immediately glowed beneath it, spreading venom through its veins. It shuddered but remained standing.
Rin's smirk widened. "What folly, to send another to die so swiftly. Lush—Tailwind."
The Vespiquen's wings stirred the air again, increasing her speed as the poisonous barbs continued to eat away at Rhyhorn's stamina.
Ashlyn whistled from the booth. "I almost feel bad for him. Almost."
Misty shook her head. "No mercy in this Gym today."
Mordred leaned back, arms crossed. "'Tis as expected."
Eddie gritted his teeth. "Drill Run! Take it down!"
Rhyhorn charged, its horn spinning like a drill as it tore across the battlefield.
"Air Slash." Rin's voice was calm and cutting.
Lush's wings glowed as she unleashed a blade of wind. The attack slammed into Rhyhorn, halting its advance and sending it skidding backward. The poison took its toll, and with one last shaky breath, it collapsed.
"Rhyhorn is unable to battle!"
The crowd erupted, and the Rotom drone buzzed in excitement. "Two down! Rin Hunter-Pendragon is dismantling this challenge with precision and grace!"
Eddie slumped, recalling his fallen Rhyhorn with a shaky hand. Sweat beaded down his face as the Rotom drone hovered overhead, its mechanical voice echoing through the cavernous gym.
"Match Complete! Challenger Rin Hunter-Pendragon sweeps the first round of the Gauntlet with overwhelming dominance! A flawless victory! Moving on to the next round! Live viewers: 115,542 and climbing!""
The audience roared, their cheers reverberating off the stone walls. Viewer counts spiked on the holographic displays as chat boxes flooded with comments:
"Who is this queen?!"
"Vespiquen didn't even flinch! That's insane!"
"Eddie never stood a chance—someone call a nurse!"
"She's scary, but in a good way."
Ashlyn leaned into the booth microphone, grinning like a maniac. "Hey, Eddie, need a hug after that? No shame in losing to royalty!"
Mordred smirked, her arms crossed as she tilted her head toward Misty. "What did I tell thee? The boy never stood a chance."
Misty, looking equal parts impressed and concerned, leaned forward. "I'm starting to think Rin might actually kill Flint if he's not careful." The redhead misjudge the fashion diva. I still can't believe she didn't take a single hit."
Mordred laughed, "Rin is a Pendragon. Even without showing her mighty dragon, she crushed him. 'Twas a demonstration of inevitability. She even tells her bugs are the weakest of her team."
Meanwhile, Rin dusted off her skirt, as if dismissing the idea that this was even a proper challenge. "Thy incompetence was a blight upon this battlefield," she said, her voice dripping with disdain. "Perhaps now thou understandeth the folly of standing against me."
Eddie swallowed hard, then offered a shaky bow. "Y-you're terrifying," he admitted before practically fleeing the arena.
Rin smirked, turning toward the referee with her chin held high. "Summon forth my next opponent. Let them behold their fate."
Announcer Rotom: "Round Two! Challenger Rin Hunter-Pendragon versus Gym Trainer Dana Stone! Viewers: 235,421 and climbing! With a more aggressive approach, Dana poses a different kind of challenge. Will Rin's calculated strategy remain untouchable, or will this be the first crack in the queen's armor? Let the battle begin!"
The crowd roared as Dana strode onto the battlefield, her sharp, battle-hardened expression a stark contrast to Eddie's earlier nerves. She cracked her knuckles, exuding confidence as she tossed her Pokéball high.
Name: Dana Slate
Hometown: Pewter City
Rank: Advanced Gym Trainer
Fight Style: Offensive momentum, stat boosts, and high-impact moves
Roggenrola (Rock – Level 44)
Ability: Sturdy
Moves: Stone Edge, Rock Polish, Smack Down, Iron Defense, Sandstorm, Explosion, Body Press, Headbutt, Bulldoze, Rock Slide, Stealth Rock
Sudowoodo (Rock – Level 45)
Ability: Rock Head
Moves: Wood Hammer, Rock Tomb, Sucker Punch, Counter, Hammer Arm, Stone Edge, Double-Edge, Taunt, Body Slam, Rock Throw, Earthquake
Boldore (Rock – Level 44)
Ability: Sturdy
Moves: Power Gem, Rock Blast, Iron Defense, Bulldoze, Stealth Rock, Harden, Mud-Slap, Smack Down, Explosion, Rock Polish.
Dana grinned. "Hope your Vespiquen's ready for a real fight. Let's see if that fancy setup can handle raw power!"
Rin's crimson eyes sparkled with amusement, her voice carrying a mocking lilt. "Power? Thou bringest a big rock, a totally fake tree, and a pebble? Lush shall make rubble of thee."
The referee raised his arm. "Let the second match begin!"
Dana tossed her Pokéball, and in a burst of light, Roggenrola emerged onto the battlefield. Its rocky exterior gleamed under the lights as it released a low rumble.
Dana smirked. "You're gonna need more than fancy words this time. Roggenrola—Stealth Rock!"
Jagged stones burst from the ground, reinforcing the hazard zone already in place.
Announcer Rotom: "As Trainers of this challenge arena traps are not cleared before the second match. While brutal and frankly unfair to challengers but it sure does bring in the ratings!!"
Rin's eyes narrowed. "Thou wouldst double thy traps? Foolishness. Lush—Toxic Spikes! Layer them well."
Vespiquen released another wave of venomous barbs, littering Dana's side of the field.
Dana pointed sharply. "Sandstorm!"
Roggenrola let out a low growl as the arena filled with swirling sand, obscuring vision and chipping away at non-Rock types.
Rin's expression darkened. "A storm? How quaint. Lush—Defend Order!"
Golden hexagonal shields formed around Vespiquen, protecting her from the storm's assault.
Dana grinned. "Smart, but it won't save her. Roggenrola—Stone Edge!"
Jagged rocks flew from Roggenrola, cutting through the air toward Vespiquen.
"Protect!" Rin snapped.
The shimmering barrier absorbed the damage, leaving Vespiquen unscathed.
"Counter—Air Slash!"
Vespiquen's wings pulsed as she fired a blade of wind that sliced through the sandstorm, striking Roggenrola and causing cracks to spread across its body.
Dana grit her teeth. "Don't let up! Explosion!"
"Protect!" Rin ordered once more.
The blast engulfed the battlefield, but when the dust cleared, Vespiquen hovered untouched within her shimmering shield. Roggenrola, however, lay in pieces.
"Roggenrola is unable to battle!" the referee declared.
Announcer Rotom: "And there it is! Rin's impenetrable defense holds again, completely nullifying Dana's opening assault!"
Dana growled, recalling Roggenrola. "Don't get cocky! Go, Sudowoodo!"
The false tree appeared, slamming its rocky limbs down as toxic spikes flared, poisoning it immediately. It didn't flinch, glaring up at Vespiquen.
Dana pointed. "Taunt! Shut that setup down!"
Sudowoodo sneered as its energy locked Vespiquen out of her defensive moves.
Rin's eyes narrowed. "Such insolence. Lush—Air Slash!"
The blade of wind struck Sudowoodo, but it stood firm.
"Now—Wood Hammer!"
Sudowoodo charged, its limbs glowing green as it swung with devastating force.
"Roost!" Rin ordered.
Vespiquen began to glow as her wounds mended, but the hammer connected, slamming her hard into the ground.
The crowd gasped as Lush struggled to rise.
"Hammer Arm!" Dana pressed the attack.
"Bug Buzz!" Rin countered.
A screeching vibration erupted from Vespiquen, stopping Sudowoodo mid-charge.
Rin's voice rang out. "Finish it—Fell Stinger!"
Vespiquen lunged forward, her stinger glowing with venom as she struck Sudowoodo square in the chest. Poison exploded outward, and Sudowoodo let out a strangled cry before collapsing.
"Sudowoodo is unable to battle!"
Announcer Rotom:
"Unbelievable! Rin turns the tide and eliminates Sudowoodo with precision and power! And Vespiquen's Fell Stinger raises her attack even higher!"
Dana cursed under her breath as she recalled Sudowoodo. "Last one—Boldore, let's go!"
The heavily-armored Boldore landed with a crash, immediately poisoned by the toxic spikes. Its defensive energy flared, and its crystals glowed ominously.
Rin smirked. "Lush—Quiver Dance!"
Vespiquen's wings shimmered as her stats rose again.
Dana didn't hesitate. "Rock Blast!"
Boldore fired a barrage of rocks that slammed into Vespiquen, forcing her back.
"Power Gem—follow up!"
A beam of light shot out, striking Vespiquen midair.
The Rotom drone buzzed. "Boldore lands solid hits! Can Rin recover?"
Rin's eyes flashed. "Enough. Lush—Bug Buzz!"
The vibrating screech slammed into Boldore, but it stood firm thanks to Sturdy.
Dana's voice rang out. "Explosion—take it down with you!"
Rin snapped. "Protect!"
For the third time, the arena erupted in light and force, but as the smoke cleared, Vespiquen hovered within her shimmering barrier—scarred but undefeated.
The referee raised his arm. "Boldore is unable to battle! Challenger Rin Hunter-Pendragon wins the second match!"
Announcer Rotom:
"Another commanding victory! Rin's Vespiquen weathers yet another round with near-perfect execution! Viewers: 534,202 and counting! Next up—the final Gym Trainer, Marcus Granite!"
Rin flicked a stray lock of hair over her shoulder as she looked down at Dana, her lips curling into a smirk.
"Thy bluster did amuse, but in the end, thou wert naught but a pebble beneath my boot. Begone, peasant, and send forth the final obstacle before my coronation."
Dana glared but said nothing as she retreated, leaving the battlefield to the next contender.
The lights in the Pewter City Gym dimmed briefly as the battlefield was cleared. Dust still lingered from the previous match, but Rin stood tall, her crimson eyes burning with resolve as she brushed nonexistent dirt from her pristine skirt.
The crowd buzzed with anticipation as the Rotom drone's holographic screen updated, flashing bold text across the display:
"Final Gauntlet Challenger—Marcus Granite—Enters the Arena!"
The crowd erupted in cheers as Marcus stepped onto the battlefield, his boots crunching against loose gravel. The man was built like the rocks he commanded—broad-shouldered, tan, and weathered. He carried himself with the confidence of someone who had crushed countless rookies in the past.
"Not bad," Marcus said, cracking his knuckles. "You made it this far without losing a single Pokémon. But let's see how that streak holds up against me."
Rin tilted her head slightly, her smirk growing sharper. "Thou dost look the part of a wall. Yet walls may be shattered under the might of a queen."
Marcus raised a brow. "Queen, huh? Well, let's see if your throne's still standing when the dust settles."
The referee stepped forward, raising his flag high. "Final Gauntlet Match! Challenger Rin Hunter-Pendragon versus Marcus Granite! Victory here grants the right to face Gym Leader Flint Harrison!"
Announcer Rotom:
"With two flawless victories behind her, Rin faces Marcus Granite—the strongest of Pewter's Gym Trainers! Will her calculated tactics hold, or has she finally met her match? Trainers, prepare for battle!"
Trainer Profile – Marcus Granite
Name: Marcus Granite
Hometown: Pewter City
Rank: Senior Gym Trainer (Elite Tier)
Fight Style: Heavy defense, endurance tactics, and high-powered counterattacks
Pokémon Roster:
Crustle (Bug/Rock – Level 46)
Ability: Sturdy
Moves: Shell Smash, Rock Slide, Stealth Rock, X-Scissor, Stone Edge, Protect, Knock Off, Iron Defense, Body Press, Toxic Spikes, Counter, Sandstorm
Golem (Rock/Ground – Level 47)Ability: Sturdy
Moves: Stone Edge, Earthquake, Explosion, Thunder Punch, Heavy Slam, Fire Punch, Body Press, Stealth Rock, Rock Polish, Hammer Arm, Sandstorm, Protect
Tyrunt (Rock/Dragon – Level 47)Ability: Strong Jaw
Moves: Crunch, Dragon Claw, Thunder Fang, Fire Fang, Rock Slide, Stomp, Charm, Iron Head, Stealth Rock, Roar, Earthquake, Ice Fang
The referee's arm dropped. "Begin!"
Rin extended her arm, the jeweled Pokéball in her grasp reflecting the bright lights overhead. "Arise, Lush. Let us finish this gauntlet in glory."
Her Vespiquen burst forth, wings humming with power. The Silver Powder shimmered faintly around her neck as she hovered above the battlefield, regal and commanding.
Marcus didn't waste time. "Crustle—Stealth Rock!"
The hermit-crab Pokémon smashed its massive shell against the ground, sending jagged stones scattering across Rin's side of the battlefield.
Rin's eyes gleamed as she flicked her wrist. "Tailwind."
Lush's wings stirred the air, summoning a powerful gust that enveloped her in a swirling breeze, boosting her speed.
Marcus grunted. "Not bad. But speed won't save you—Rock Slide!"
Crustle lunged forward, dislodging sharp boulders from its shell and sending them hurtling toward Lush.
Rin's voice rang out, sharp and cold. "Defend Order."
Glowing hexagonal shields materialized around Lush, intercepting the rocks as they shattered harmlessly against the barrier.
Marcus's eyes narrowed. "Counter it—Knock Off!"
Crustle rushed forward, claws glowing dark as it slashed at Lush, sending her tumbling through the air. Her Silver Powder necklace snapped and fell to the ground.
"Thou darest touch my queen?" Rin hissed. "Lush—Attack Order! Crush him!"
The Vespiquen retaliated with a swarm of glowing drones that descended upon Crustle like a plague. The Bug-type assault pierced through Crustle's defenses, forcing it to stagger.
Marcus clenched his fists. "Shell Smash! Let's flip this!"
Crustle's shell cracked, glowing faintly as its defenses dropped—but its attack and speed surged.
Rin's eyes narrowed. "Tis futile. Air Slash!"
Lush's wings glowed as she unleashed a slicing gust of wind, striking Crustle hard and sending it skidding across the rocks. It let out a final groan before collapsing.
The referee raised his flag. "Crustle is unable to battle!"
Announcer Rotom:
"And just like that, Rin takes the first round! But will her Vespiquen hold against what's next?"
Marcus threw out his next Pokéball. "Let's see how you handle this! Go, Golem!"
The massive boulder Pokémon hit the ground with a thunderous crash, glaring at Lush.
Rin smirked. "Another pebble to crush. Lush—Toxic Spikes. Reinforce the field."
Venomous barbs scattered across Marcus's side of the battlefield, adding to the hazards already present.
Marcus barked, "Thunder Punch!"
Golem charged, fists crackling with electricity as it launched at Lush.
"Protect."
Lush's shimmering barrier flared to life, absorbing the blow.
Rin tilted her head. "Thy time hast run out. Power Gem!"
Beams of light erupted from Lush, striking Golem square in the chest. Cracks spread across its rocky hide as it roared in pain.
"What the actual fuck!? How is a bug doing that much damage!?" Marcus gaped that his Golem Sturdy was activated from a Rock-type move! The man gritted his teeth. They is no way this princess is a newbie trainer.
"Explosion!"
The crowd gasped as Golem detonated in a blinding blast.
"Protect!" Rin's voice cut through the panic.
Lush's barrier absorbed the blast, leaving her unharmed as the smoke cleared to reveal Golem's collapsed form.
The referee raised his flag. "Golem is unable to battle!"
Announcer Rotom:
"Another flawless defense! Rin's Vespiquen shrugs off Golem's final gambit without a scratch!"
Marcus bit his lip. Not since the Legendary Dex holder had a perfect run like this, and even they had at least one team member taken out before reaching the Gym leader.
Announcer Rotom: "Ladies and gentlemen! Rin Hunter-Pendragon, the undefeated Queen of Pallet Town, has Marcus Granite—the Pewter Gym's ace Gym Trainer! 2 to 0, will he be able to beat her stater finally?
The crowd erupted, chants of "Rin! Rin! Rin!" clashing with calls for Marcus to defend Pewter's honor.
Ashlyn's voice rang out through the private booth's intercom. "You got this, Princess Sass! Wipe that smirk off his face!"
Misty leaned closer, biting her lip. "This guy's serious. I heard he's Flint's protégé."
Mordred smirked, folding her arms. "If he is Pewter's blade, then Rin shall break him upon her anvil."
The crowd erupted again as Marcus smirked, gripping his Pokéball. "I've been watching you, Hunter-Pendragon. Fancy tactics. Big talk. But none of that matters now."
Rin flicked her pristine skirt, brushing imaginary dust aside. "Thy words mean naught, pebble-breaker. Speak through thy beast, lest this spectacle end too swiftly."
Mordred leaned forward in the booth, her voice dripping with amusement. "Me thinks the knight will slay the dragon."
Marcus hurled his Pokéball. "Come forth, Tyrunt!"
The ancient Pokémon emerged with a deafening roar, claws raking the ground as its sharp fangs gleamed in the light.
Announcer Rotom: "Tyrunt—a predator reborn from fossils! Its Strong Jaw ability powers up its devastating bites! Can Rin's Vespiquen withstand this prehistoric powerhouse?"
Rin raised her hand. "Lush, descend."
Vespiquen hovered lower, her wings pulsing as her Silver Powder shimmered in the light.
"Tyrunt, Rock Slide—shatter her defenses!" Marcus roared.
Tyrunt roared, slamming its tail into the earth. Jagged boulders erupted from the ground, crashing down toward Vespiquen.
"Defend Order!" Rin snapped.
Lush summoned glowing hexagonal shields, absorbing the impact as rocks smashed harmlessly against the barrier. The force rattled the gym, but Lush hovered steady.
Announcer Rotom: "An explosive start! Marcus comes out swinging while Rin raises her defenses. Will the queen's shield hold?"
Rin's eyes glinted. "Tailwind! Swifter than the wind!"
Vespiquen's wings pulsed, whipping up gusts that boosted her speed. She soared higher, out of Tyrunt's immediate range.
"Won't save you! Thunder Fang!" Marcus barked.
Tyrunt leaped with shocking agility, fangs crackling with electricity as it lunged at Vespiquen.
"Air Slash—smite it!"
Vespiquen sliced through the air, sending a blade of wind that struck Tyrunt mid-leap. The beast snarled as it crashed back to the ground. Sparks danced around its jaws, but it pushed itself up with a growl.
"Dragon Claw—bring her down!"
Tyrunt's claws glowed crimson as it lunged again, slashing through the air.
"Roost! Recover, Lush!"
Vespiquen landed, her body glowing faintly as her wounds mended. But Tyrunt's claws slashed across her side, leaving a jagged gash.
Announcer Rotom: "A brutal hit! Tyrunt finally lands a strike!"
"Crunch—tear through it!" Marcus shouted.
Tyrunt's jaws glowed darkly as it lunged again.
"Protect!" Rin ordered.
A translucent shield flared just in time, halting Tyrunt's bite mid-lunge. Sparks flew as its fangs scraped against the barrier.
Rin smirked. "Foolish beast. 'Tis poison thou shouldst fear most. Lush—Toxic!"
Vespiquen released a noxious mist. Tyrunt roared as the venom seeped into its skin.
Marcus wiped sweat from his brow. "Earthquake—bring the house down!"
Tyrunt slammed its tail into the ground. The battlefield shook violently, fissures spreading outward.
"Air Slash—cut it down!" Rin countered.
Vespiquen recovered mid-shake, firing another blade of wind that struck Tyrunt hard. The beast roared, its legs buckling under the poison's effects.
Announcer Rotom: "Tyrunt's health is fading, but it's still standing! Will Rin push for the kill, or will Marcus find a way to turn this around?"
"Iron Head—ram it down!" Marcus yelled.
Tyrunt's head glowed silver as it charged.
"Power Gem—end this!"
Vespiquen's eyes glowed as a radiant beam of energy shot forth. It collided with Tyrunt mid-charge, sending an explosion of light and dust across the battlefield.
Got it! I'll make sure the moves are bold and the dialogue from Pokémon and Rotom is in italics. Here's the updated final battle against Marcus Granite's Tyrunt with those formatting fixes in place.
Rin vs. Marcus Granite – Final Gauntlet Battle
The Pewter Gym pulsed with energy as Marcus Granite stepped onto the rocky battlefield, his boots grinding against loose gravel. The roar of the crowd was deafening, the air electric with excitement.
Rin stood poised across the field, her crimson eyes gleaming like rubies beneath the harsh lights. Her pristine white outfit—dusted faintly from the previous battles—remained defiant against the grime of the arena. She tilted her chin, eyes locked onto Marcus as her Vespiquen hovered beside her, wings buzzing like a blade unsheathed.
Announcer Rotom: "Ladies and gentlemen! This is it—the FINAL battle of the Gauntlet Challenge! Rin Hunter-Pendragon, undefeated thus far, stands on the edge of victory! But first, she must face Marcus Granite and his ancient terror—Tyrunt!"
The crowd erupted in cheers.
Marcus grinned, cracking his knuckles. "You've got style, princess. But that won't save you from me."
Rin brushed invisible dust from her skirt and smirked. "Style? Nay. 'Tis merely the natural elegance of royalty. Thou art naught but a pebble beneath my heel. Speak less. Fight more."
Ashlyn leaned into the booth mic, laughing. "Send him packing, Princess Sass!"
Misty's eyes widened. "He's Flint's apprentice. This could get ugly."
Mordred smirked, arms crossed. "Methinks the knight shall slay the dragon."
Marcus tossed his Pokéball into the air. "Let's end this—Tyrunt, show them your bite!"
Pokémon Reveal
The Pokéball burst open in a flash of light, revealing Tyrunt. The ancient Pokémon roared, its claws raking the earth as its gleaming fangs glistened under the lights.
Tyrunt (Rock/Dragon – Level 46)
Ability: Strong Jaw
Moves: Dragon Claw, Crunch, Thunder Fang, Rock Slide, Ancient Power, Earthquake, Dragon Tail, Ice Fang, Iron Head, Fire Fang
Announcer Rotom: "Tyrunt—a predator reborn from fossils! Its Strong Jaw ability powers up its devastating bites! Can Rin's Vespiquen withstand this prehistoric powerhouse?"
Rin pointed forward. "Lush, the field is thine. Show them the might of a queen!"
Her Vespiquen descended, wings humming and eyes sharp. The Silver Powder around her neck glinted faintly.
Vespiquen (Bug/Flying – Level 45)
Ability: Tinted Lens
Moves: Attack Order, Defend Order, Roost, Power Gem, Air Slash, Toxic, Tailwind, Protect
The referee raised his flag. "Let the battle begin!"
Round 1 – Breaking the Field
"Tyrunt, Rock Slide—shatter her defenses!" Marcus roared.
Tyrunt roared, slamming its tail into the earth. Jagged boulders erupted from the ground, crashing down toward Vespiquen.
"Defend Order!" Rin snapped.
Lush summoned glowing hexagonal shields, absorbing the impact as rocks smashed harmlessly against the barrier. The force rattled the gym, but Lush hovered steady.
Announcer Rotom: "An explosive start! Marcus comes out swinging while Rin raises her defenses. Will the queen's shield hold?"
Rin's eyes glinted. "Tailwind! Swifter than the wind!"
Vespiquen's wings pulsed, whipping up gusts that boosted her speed. She soared higher, out of Tyrunt's immediate range.
"Won't save you! Thunder Fang!" Marcus barked.
Tyrunt leapt with shocking agility, fangs crackling with electricity as it lunged at Vespiquen.
"Air Slash—smite it!"
Vespiquen sliced through the air, sending a blade of wind that struck Tyrunt mid-leap. The beast snarled as it crashed back to the ground. Sparks danced around its jaws, but it pushed itself up with a growl.
Round 2 – Grit and Poison
"Dragon Claw—bring her down!"
Tyrunt's claws glowed crimson as it lunged again, slashing through the air.
"Roost! Recover, Lush!"
Vespiquen landed, her body glowing faintly as her wounds mended. But Tyrunt's claws slashed across her side, leaving a jagged gash.
Announcer Rotom: "A brutal hit! Tyrunt finally lands a strike!"
"Crunch—tear through it!" Marcus shouted.
Tyrunt's jaws glowed darkly as it lunged again.
"Protect!" Rin ordered.
A translucent shield flared just in time, halting Tyrunt's bite mid-lunge. Sparks flew as its fangs scraped against the barrier.
Rin smirked. "Foolish beast. 'Tis poison thou shouldst fear most. Lush—Toxic!"
Vespiquen released a noxious mist. Tyrunt roared as the venom seeped into its skin.
Round 3 – The Beast Staggers
Marcus wiped sweat from his brow. "Earthquake—bring the house down!"
Tyrunt slammed its tail into the ground. The battlefield shook violently, fissures spreading outward.
"Air Slash—cut it down!" Rin countered.
Vespiquen recovered mid-shake, firing another blade of wind that struck Tyrunt hard. The beast roared, its legs buckling under the poison's effects.
Announcer Rotom: "Tyrunt's health is fading, but it's still standing! Will Rin push for the kill, or will Marcus find a way to turn this around?"
"Iron Head—ram it down!" Marcus yelled.
Tyrunt's head glowed silver as it charged.
"Power Gem—end this!"
Vespiquen's eyes glowed as a radiant beam of energy shot forth. It collided with Tyrunt mid-charge, sending an explosion of light and dust across the battlefield.
Final Round – The Queen's Victory
When the dust cleared, Tyrunt staggered to its feet, panting heavily as poison pulsed through its veins.
Marcus clenched his fists. "Dragon Tail—last shot!"
"Attack Order—crush it!" Rin commanded.
Vespiquen's drones materialized, glowing as they swarmed Tyrunt. The repeated strikes forced it back, each blow hammering into its cracked armor.
The poison flared one last time. Tyrunt let out a final roar before collapsing.
Announcer Rotom: "Tyrunt is down! Rin Hunter-Pendragon has claimed victory in the Gauntlet Challenge!"
The crowd erupted into deafening cheers, chants of "Rin! Rin! Rin!" shaking the walls.
Marcus recalled Tyrunt, his shoulders heavy but respectful. "You earned that one. You are not a queen; you are a monster queen."
Rin dusted off her skirt, voice cold but triumphant. "The throne remains unshaken."
Announcer Rotom: "Next stop—Flint, the Pewter City Gym Leader! Can Rin claim the Boulder Badge? Stay tuned!"
Ashlyn pumped her fist. "Hell yeah, Princess Sass!"
Mordred grinned. "The knight felled the beast. The King of Rocks is next."
Misty exhaled. "This girl's insane."
Rin stepped forward, her voice echoing. "Summon Flint. The crown awaits."
To Be Continued…