"So I think you'll look good in some dark, more close-cropped colours," said Yolanda, emphatically.
"Oh, yeah thanks," I said. I nodded along, smiling at Yolanda's choice to 'keep me distracted'. Namely, to take me shopping. She'd decided on a darker-tone series of clothes with short black t-shirts with v-cuts and simple collars. With Trixie's training, I was fit enough that most clothes like this looked good.Black, I knew from experience to be a bit of an easy option."Here, try this as well!" Yolanda insisted.I glanced at the white shirt in my hands and felt like teasing her for how she was 'branching out' with her options here. But I didn't, instead I just nodded and stepped into the change rooms.When I came back out I gave a little twirl for Yolanda only to notice that Sabrina had joined us. Next to her, Ralts was sitting with some large sunglasses on her horns posing in a manner that she must think was 'cool'."Hey you," I said to Sabrina."Hey," she said back playfully. She gave my sister an amused look as Yolanda shrieked in surprise."S-Sabrina! You startled me!" Yolanda said.Sabrina patted Yolanda on the head, her eyes still on me. "Sorry about that," she said."R-ralts!" cried out Ralts as Terra met her with her customary hug."He needs some dress shoes and pants I think. Also? You can afford to take Brock to some of the more expensive shops," Sabrina said."Like Ala Shazam's?" Yolanda said, lights entering her eyes as her head turned towards the shop in question."Uhm, I prefer bargain shoppin—". I tried to say only for Sabrina to smile wider, obviously noting my discomfort and deciding to push instead of keep me happy."Oh, yes, I was also thinking of Sollom-Bell. Brock does need a new wallet and belts," Sabrina began listing off several different items and Yolanda only got more and more excited.I clapped my hands. "We will only be looking at the belts and wallet. I don't need a trilby Yolanda. Sabrina is just playing around," I said, putting my foot down. No way I was buying that unless I was matching it with a suit for some fashion show.Sabrina shot me a sly look. "You do remember that you have a contest this weekend? Yes?"Yolanda perked up. "Oh yes! You need to wear something snazzy because you're going to be a judge!""I think I can just get away with my hiking gear and a scowl," I said, deciding to play with them a bit. I crossed my arms and frowned. "Like this."Yolanda shot Sabrina a look of worry and gestured at me in a manner that made me think she was asking for help. I snorted and shook my head. "I'm just playing. We can look at something that is at least robust. We're going with a 'tough' style so it needs to play to that."Yolanda vibrated with glee as Sabrina and I walked further down the walkway of the frankly huge Celadon department store. Unlike the games, the department store was a mega complex instead of a five-story building with the roof open to the public.Well, the roof was accessible, but to compare it to the games was doing it a gross disservice. The Celadon Department store was in truth a building that covered at least ten acres of land, with five levels each with set specialities, yes, but there was also a range of stalls, shops, food courtyards, and attractions.On one side of the store, there was a gigantic playpen for children that was monitored by a clutch of Kangaskhan. On the other were the cinemas and entertainment. I liked to think that the person who designed it was still to this day patting themselves on the back as families had to trudge from one end of the store to the other, resulting in the most exposure to sales and advertising possible.If you hadn't bought at least three items or services by the time you reached your destination, you possessed an iron will.Sabrina, Yolanda and I all walked past the speciality pokemon grooming store which occupied two whole levels. It featured the standard hairdressing area along with a sand bath, furnace, aquarium, and blacksmith for any needs your pokemon might have.To the side, masseuses offer their services to the trainers to allow them to relax while their pokemon are pampered."You know, I think Terra's horn has never looked so shiny," Yolanda said as we walked past the storefront."Is that so?" I said, to make conversation. I could see the slight gleam on her skin and agreed with her, but I didn't think Terra, as a baby pokemon would get the most benefit from it.Sabrina considered the store and then looked down at Ralts. "I must apologise Ralts, I have been doing your hygiene and haircuts myself… but perhaps you would enjoy something a little more lavish?"Ralts liked the sound of that as she pointed at the shop only to turn and begin pointing out other things that she wanted as well. I spied a shop selling toys and wandered over to buy some for my younger siblings.A few minutes later, Sabrina and Yolanda came in with pleased expressions on their faces. Ralts swished and posed on Sabrina's shoulder drawing small coos of delight from the girls."Looking very nice there, Ralts. I like the gloves," I said, indicating the small mittens she was wearing that were made of lace.Ralts paused and a conflicted look warred over her face before she nodded in thanks. She then noticed where we were and started pointing at various toys she wanted, very much acting her age.Sabrina selected several items and handed them to me, slipping in dolls of her own to the group. I only had to carry the toys as far as the counter where the sales clerk looked like they'd just had all the Christmas come at once as Sabrina, Yolanda, and I each bought a pile of toys.Sabrina then put her hand to each pile and Teleported them away."That is so convenient," Yolanda said. "Even better than having a storage bag, I should think."I made a so-so gesture. "There's going to be situations where you want things on hand, and in the storage bag, while it's not able to carry as much as Sabrina's warehouse, it's much more reliable as it's in your hands."Yolanda nodded along only to pause. "Her, what now?"Sabrina smiled. "I own a warehouse in Saffron City for organising my various acquisitions. Toys, dresses, jewellery. I have a specialised ghost and psychic security team that looks after the place. It helps to keep the clutter down at home and if I want a certain dress for a certain occasion? I most likely have it."Yolanda stared. "That's… so out there, to such a degree… I'm not sure how to process that. It's amazing but just… the size of it. To own a warehouse for your goods!"I chuckled as Sabrina tossed her hair proudly. I was about to say something when I spotted an outfit that was on a mannequin. Sabrina noticed instantly and turned to see what had caught my eye."Hmmm you would look good in that, use the white shirts Yolanda has been buying and some jeans and you have a rather stylish outfit," she said, her mind already conjuring up various clothing combinations."Ah, I'm not sure, it seems a little impractical," I said, despite turning and walking towards it.Yolanda frowned. "Is it pokemon leather?""Special fake leather that mimics the belly of a Feraligatr?" I read. "Hmmm, oh it says it's got Altaria down feathers in the lining to help it stay warm enough to use as a flight jacket, and it is tear and abrasion-resistant."Sabrina nudged me. "Try it on," she said, tempting me.I wandered into the change rooms but while I was trying it on with the white shirt and jeans combination, I spotted something that I thought might work. I grabbed up some clear glasses and popped them on."How's this look?" I said, turning to the girls.Yolanda tilted her head, apparently unsure of my addition to the overall look.I looked at Sabrina and found her to be staring at me, an intense look on her face. Ralts was shooting her head from Sabrina to me in shock.I chuckled. "I think it works?"Sabrina nodded slowly.I bought the combination, rather pleased with my whimsical inclusion. Yolanda still seemed confused."Why does that work so well?" she said, eyeing the glasses."The dichotomy of the jacket with the glasses. It softens the impression, and makes him look smarter," commented Sabrina."I like to think I'm pretty smart?" I said, offering the two of them a line of banter.Both of them just nodded, which hadn't been what I was going for. I felt a cold sweat break out on my neck. Oh damn, they thought I was smart.I suddenly felt the need to read more and live up to their expectations.I swallowed down my trepidation and waved for them to lead me to the next shop. They walked me past a section of shops that listed pokemon items and I paused. Now there was something that I was drastically underutilizing."Hey, can we make a pit stop here?" I said, as I diverted our shopping trip. Sabrina and Yolanda watched as I went on a buying spree for items and berries.It had been a while since I'd done anything like this. I'd had it used against me, with Walker honestly being one of the people that I was most impressed by. Most people hadn't even realised his pokemon was eating a berry with how the fruit on Tropius' chin hid what was actually being eaten.Then again, it wasn't yet a well-understood field despite occasionally popping up with berries.Berries themselves were well understood, but other battle items were still not guaranteed to help. Silph Co, and Devon Corp were working on them as they knew they could be huge money earners but as yet they didn't have the efficacy.So they were seen as very hit-and-miss and it wasn't widespread as it one day would be. I'd need to redo some serious research on what I would need in future as the people crafting these items improved. It had been a while since I'd done any, and as I marched through the aisles stocking up on goods I decided it was time to do some testing myself to see how far they'd come since the last time I'd tried this years ago.Back then I'd needed to be frugalI was very pleased to find that the Charti berry wasn't in stock and wouldn't be for another year.Huh, perhaps that contributed to it not being a popular method? I thought to myself. The unreliability of sourcing berries? I couldn't get any Rindo berries, but I could get a handful of Pasho berries, so I was in good luck for a water-type match-up at least once.I paused in the power item section and frowned. "I should buy some more of these for the Gym," I said aloud. It had been a while since I'd gotten some new ones, and the ones we had were getting rather worn. I'd bought a few when I first opened the new Pewter Gym and buying enough for my pokemon roster to use had proven to be almost as expensive as building the house attachment to my Gym.But now, thanks to Lance's bet and my own winnings and the earnings from the surge, I had money to burn.The cashier seemed very happy when I bought a pack of ten Anklets, Bands, Belts, Bracers, Lenses, and Weights for my pokemon. If nothing else, Teddiursa and the others would enjoy new training equipment.I made a quick trip through the other item sections and collected an eclectic assortment of items as Sabrina purchased her own items of interest.Yolanda initially was very interested in it, but then I started to push my luck. After an hour she grew bored enough that she was able to convince Sabrina to help her to drag me on to continue shopping for outfits.By the time we left, my section of Sabrina's fashion warehouse had three more outfits which I was very pleased with. When we reached the entrance A.J. and Missy were poised to pick me up."Let's go have a fight!" Missy said, her fists clenched and her expression was so serious I had to resist the urge to pat her on the head for how cute she was being."Sure," I said. Rachel had been able to distract me with a technical detail regarding the Pewter pokenet page while Yolanda had gotten her idea cemented out for shopping. Greta had asked for some one on one training which had taken up an hour this morning.Now it was apparently Missy and A.J.'s turn.They led me to a local battle club where I was able to withdraw Cradily, Cranidos and Teddiursa from a round of matches at various levels. More than a few people were surprised to see me fighting in the junior leagues until they caught sight of Cranidos and Teddiursa.Sadly, I'd forgotten that while a lot of the Gym trainers knew of Cranidos, the public as yet, or more specifically, the media, did not. Leading to another surge in reporters asking me questions about my next pokemon."So! Another rock type?" asked one reporter as they tried, and failed to ignore Cranidos hammering their leg with his head. A pained expression quickly building.I reached down and dragged Crnaidos into my arms. "Yes, Cranidos will be a pokemon appearing in some of my lower tier badge matches until I build him up for the higher tier matches.""But not your Elite team?" prompted another reporter."Who's to say? I think I have more interest in having Teddiursa become one of my elite pokemon," I said casually."An Ursaring would be a strong pokemon," commented one reporter.I just smiled and nodded. "Yeah, that too," I said, knowing that Teddiursa had so much more potential than just being an Ursaring.I won the matches I'd been set up for in the battle club and departed feeling very good about how everything had gone down.When I returned to the hotel room my entourage all trooped into my room with me, collectively dragging chairs and tables to run through a run down on Scarlet."So she's got enough grass and water types to make herself pretty annoying but you have the right pokemon to smack her around," said Missy with a nod."I'd probably lead with either Sanchez or Don this time around," said A.J."Titan's a must-have," said Yolanda. "I don't think you need Empress, she's strong but she doesn't offer too much beyond overpowering that which you have in other pokemon.""If we want to play up popular pokemon then Sanchez, Knight, Bertha and Link are all must haves!" said Rachel, as she consulted a computer. "The public love them!" Rachel then coughed and looked to the side. "Hypnotoad also did well.""You're just saying that cause Trixie likes Brock using a fighting-type pokemon," said Greta, with a giggle. A.J. having been about to say much the same, nodded along.I hummed, watching them all go back and forth. Sabrina leaned against me. "You'll go with Selene, right?" she said with a smile, obviously knowing she was merely feeding the discussion more ammunition to consider.I huffed and looked over Scarlet's pokemon team.Ampharos, Vilplume, Pidgeot, Hitmonlee, Seaking, Starmie, Seadra, Raichu, Fearow, Tauros, and Chansey, had been the pokemon she'd been known to have before this tournament.She'd since revealed that she had a Bellosom, Cacturne, Parasect, Rapidash, and a Poliwrath.She had come with pokemon that were well suited to face myself, or Masked Owl depending on which of us was going to make it through the round of sixteen."Who's her starter?" I asked, causing the discussion to falter.Missy and Yolanda shifted uncertainty but A.J. pounced towards the whiteboard.Ampharos went up on the list.I chewed my lip in consideration. "Poliwrath, Bellosom, Vileplume, Hitmonlee…" I rubbed my chin in thought. "Then I think it will be out of Tauros, Seadra … or Starmie for the team I face."A.J. penned in the team and when he stepped back he had a complicated look on his face. "Bellossom? It's a bit weak isn't it?""It's versatile," I said. "I think it and Vileplume are locked in, as is Ampharos. The others I'm less sure of. As to which pokemon I will be using?"I reached into a pocket and placed down a list I'd written down days ago. Before I'd even seen which pokemon Scarlet had.Sanchez, Tide, Bertha, Jormungandr, Zephyr, and Titan. All of them pokemon that either represented another, or that had been with me on my journey.The others looked it over and tilted their heads. "You had this worked out before today?" asked Missy as she inspected the worn paper.I chuckled. "I just wanted to highlight these pokemon in particular," I said.The others nodded, and just like that the discussion fell away. Sabrina then cleared her throat very pointedly. She handed Ralts off to Yolanda. "Take her and Terra to the playpen downstairs for an hour or so, please?" she said.Missy and Rachel blinked in surprise, only for their eyes to widen. "Oh! Right. Come gang! Let's go find a movie, or something to do!" said Rachel quickly as she hurriedly packed up.A.J. tilted his head shooting Sabrina and me a confused look. Thankfully he followed along without complaint as did the others. Rachel shot me a thumbs up before she closed the door to the apartment.Sabrina turned to me and gave me a half-lidded look.I grinned.Ah, everyone else had their turn to distract me from tomorrow, and now it was Sabrina's turn?I think I liked her distraction the most."—annual Celadon tournament!" announced the Mayor of Celadon, who was once more acting as the Master of Ceremonies.He waved his hand towards the crowd, his grin huge as he bowed towards each stand. "Tonight has been the work of a great many people and pokemon and I'd like to take a moment to thank them—" he said, droning on a little as he ran through a list of sponsors, volunteers, and assistants for the tournament. He then waved to the big screen."I'd also like to thank the trainers that have made this tournament, one to remember!"A short clip played, and I was amused to find that most of my pokemon had small moments where they were shown in favourable light with cool moments such as Titan and then Empress taking to the field. My match against Walker where Hurricane had been interrupted, and the Hyper Beam I'd gotten off with Tide yesterday.Other trainers and their pokemon also featured, Scarlet getting her own fair share of screen time before the screen faded to black and the Mayor led the stands in a round of applause."Thank you, all the trainers and all the pokemon! Tonight! Tonight we have a wonderful spectacle with two trainers who have risen through the ranks to face off for the Celadon Trophy!" The Mayor snapped his arms dramatically to the side and an assistant whipped a sheet off a table to reveal a rather nice-looking silver trophy that had vines entwined around it.On the front of the trophy, the shield of Celadon city was embossed."Tonight! Our two trainers need only a quick introduction! In the red corner as is only fitting! We have the dark horse of this tournament and the rising star! Scarlet from Cerulean City!" the crowd applauded politely, as a Celadon crowd was known to do.The Mayor nodded happily as Scarlet waved and bowed."And in the blue corner! From Pewter City and a powerful challenger! Gym Leader Brock!"I stood tall and waved both hands before clapping them together and bowing in multiple directions in thanks to all the spectators who had come to watch. It was rather pleasing to see that this match had garnered just as much attention as my match against Walker."And now I turn our show over to the League official, give a round of applause for tonight's referee!" shouted the Mayor gesturing to the podium to the side.There a mic'd up woman waved her hand but did not bow. Instead, she inclined her head before raising a hand and signalling for silence."Trainers tonight's event will be run under standard Ace match rules where—" she said running through the typical two-minute spiel that preceded most matches. She then clapped her hands together and drew out two flags, raising them tall."Trainers! Are you ready?" she said. Scarlet and I locked eyes, both of us nodding. I felt a thrill run through me, and all the concerns I'd had about tonight's match being the furthest I'd ever advanced faded."Begin!" The referee called, and I hurled out my first pokemon."Bellossom!" called Scarlet."Sanchez!" I barked, sending out my choice."Claim the field!" ordered Scarlet, her small pokemon leaping up and smashing its tiny flowers together to make them release a cloud of glittering, golden spores."Set up," I said simply, and Sanchez stomped one foot to create a Stealth Rock that floated off to the side.Scarlet tilted her head, watching as the golden spores drifted closer to Sanchez only for him to roll backwards to evade them quickly. Then he popped into the ground, hiding with Dig without a word from me.With all day to sit around, I'd been able to brief my pokemon on specific orders that I wanted them to go for."Bellossom! Pursue and use Petal Dance!" Scarlet called sending her pokemon down into the hole that Sanchez had left behind.I whistled. That was bold.But also a huge mistake.Sanchez popped out of the ground behind where the Stun Spores were floating. I twitched our bond, sending an impression of what I wanted him to do next. He took one look at me and stomped his foot, causing the ground to heave and buckle.Bellosom, instead of pursuing my pokemon into a weak point, was instead trapped in the tunnel Sanchez had created. Bellosom was launched up into the air with a stunned cry only to twist deftly with her body and float down to the ground.Scarlet observed both of our pokemon and clicked her tongue. "Sorry, Bellosom! We won't do that again, fill the rest of the field this time!"This time a white powder was released to fill the other side of the field. I whistled and decided to make the most of yesterday's shopping trip."Charge in with Heavy Slam!" I ordered, and this time Sanchez tucked himself into a ball, his face was hidden as his beard morphed over his face. In doing so it obscured his mouth.Scarlet frowned. "Use Giga Drain after it hits! You can take the hit and then when it falls asleep move to finish it!" she said, deciding to back her pokemon.In another situation, this would have worked out rather well for her.Sanchez hurled himself through the white and golden field of spores coating himself thoroughly. He still got in a punishing hit to the much lighter Bellosom causing it to reel back in shock.I sighed. I'd been hoping she'd try something else like buffing her pokemon up, but no matter.Sanchez rolled back after hitting Bellosom, still curled up in his ball. He rocked to his side and I watched as his moustache twitched and twisted as his mouth worked up and down.Scarlet waved her hand in a back-and-forth manner, apparently very pleased with herself. When she spoke she did so with a grandiose tone. "Take that pokemon out of the fight—""Heavy Slam," I said, and Sanchez, who'd been playing Sentret, shot forward and slammed into Bellossom with another very powerful move once again."Eh?! You taught your Golem Sleep Talk?" said Scarlet in surprise.I grinned and shook my head. "No, I just realised I hadn't been using all my tactics as well as I should. I've been overlooking some things," I said. Yesterday's purchase of several Lum berries.One thing I'd noticed about Scarlet, was her propensity to use status effects with her Bellosom to control matches. In a manner, it was like fighting Koga, only I had prep time.When Koga fought you, you typically didn't know he was coming.Which made all the difference.Bellosom collapsed to her knees and wilted enough to indicate she was out of the match while Sanchez stood tall, unaffected by the Sleep or the Paralyze that could have locked him down.I'd made a show of evading the earlier attack more out of form, I hadn't been expecting a tactical error from Scarlet, but it had played into my strengths rather well.Scarlet scowled and returned her Bellosom, her hand questing to her pokebelt only to reveal a greatball. "Time to come out! Show me your scary face!" Scarlet roared and I leaned forward expecting one of her strongest pokemon.I was not expecting a huge blubbering pokemon. "Lax!" said the now-revealed Snorlax.It glared at Sanchez who looked taken aback at coming face to face with Munchlax's evolution.From one side of the field the Stealth Rock I'd gotten off at the start of the match raced in and slammed into Snorlax mid yawn. It blinked in surprise and started to topple backwards. Instead of stepping back to catch itself, it continued to fall as if in slow motion, the hits from the Stealth Rock causing ripples across Snorlax's corpulent body.I had a momentary premonition of Snorlax falling onto his back which would see the lazy pokemon trapped on his back."Break up the field!" shouted Scarlet, crossing her fingers as she said this. I frowned and my mind ran through what sort of moves Snorlax had that would benefit from falling heavily.Just before Snorlax hit the ground, my premonition of an easy win vanished as understanding swept through me."PROTECT!" I roared just as Snorlax hit the ground.Sanchez didn't hesitate to comply just as the field erupted with power, the body slam of Snorlax hitting the ground and transitioning perfectly into a Fissure that almost caught me by surprise.Oh, damn that was a curve ball I hadn't been expecting.A wave of dust hid the field from my view and I could only narrow my eyes in annoyance as a fleshy thumping sounded out.Belly Drum, she was having her pokemon use Belly Drum."Thunder," I said, knowing that the Earthquake would be greatly weakened with the disrupted battlefield. Sanchez sparked up with electric energy before launching a huge blast into the air that came down where Snorlax had been moments ago.A howl of pain let me know that it had worked and I fist-pumped. Both Scarlet and I had been rolling the dice with Fissure and Thunder, but both moves had paid off."Rest!" commanded Scarlet, and before she could even complete the order Snorlax was snoring loudly.I weighed up my options.. I could commit, or switch out.I clicked my tongue, knowing that the odds of Thunder landing each time wouldn't work. Thankfully, that wasn't Sanchez's only powerful move, and thanks to Fissure, broken up rocks were in abundance."Full assault! Stone Edge!" I ordered, and Sanchez began to tumble and roll, as he moved rocks began to fill the air hurtling into the sleeping form of Snorlax.Each rock caused a ripple of jiggling fat on the huge pokemon, but Snorlax merely groaned and rolled up to its feet deftly.It knows Sleep Talk! I realised instantly."Goooooooooo Snorlax!" cheered Scarlet.It took all of a moment for me to put the clues together.What move could Snorlax learn that would have STAB apply to it? Coupled with the increased Attack power from Belly Drum?It could only be Giga Impact."Clever Girl," I said, aloud.Snorlax lurched into a stumbling run, its body wobbling and bouncing. It was like watching the fattest man alive perform a hundred-metre sprint equal to that of the fastest runners.Incredible and disturbing all at once.It was hypnotising watching that belly dance even as it closed on a shocked Sanchez."Explosion," I said, without missing a beat.Sanchez laughed and lit up just as Snorlax closed with him. Both pokemon slammed into each other, and for the second time in as many minutes, the battlefield was rocked by a gigantic shockwave only this time the energy was thrown upwards and out instead of just down.I had to brace and lean into the explosion gritting my teeth as dust swept my form.A moment later it dissipated and I bore witness to Sanchez and the Snorlax both down on their fronts, their eyes locked with their opponent only for them to slide shut.Both of them looked oddly pleased with themselves."Both pokemon are unable to battle! Both pokemon must be withdrawn! The match is now two to one!"I whistled, impressed. "I was not expecting that from you," I said to Scarlet. Alright, she'd come to throw down, I could respect that. She had good strategies and pokemon, so if I let her, she'd turn this into a slug fest.Scarlet grinned. "No one was expecting Snorlax!" she crowed happily.I felt my lips twitch. "No one expects the Snorlax inquisition," I said, unable to help myself as my brain-to-mouth filter apparently went on vacation.I must have been a bit shaken by that exchange, otherwise, I would never be quoting old memes.Scarlet seemed to enjoy it though as she tilted her head and smiled. "I like it!" she said. "I hope you like this next one I have as well!" she said. "You're not the only one with surprises up your sleeve!"I chuckled and selected my next pokemon.I raised up Jormungandr's pokeball and held it aloft for a moment. "This one's for you Guybro," I said, and for a moment I wondered if he heard me but then the idle thought vanished. I had no doubt a few people would be confused by the statement when they reviewed the video feed later.Then I sent out Jormungandr and my giant Steelix took to the stage just as Scarlet revealed her next pokemon to be a Poliwrath.I drew up my sleeve and pushed energy into the bond. A cry of surprise swept through the crowd as they caught sight of the bracer that I used to carry my keystone.On a small gem underneath Jormungandr's neck another gem gleamed with energy.Scarlet had just long enough to realise what this meant before I acted."JORM! MEGA EVOLVE!" I shouted, playing into the moment as I copied Sabrina's pose from her match against Will, my fist punching into the air."Shit!" Scarlet cried, not doubting for a second I could do what I claimed. "Hydro—" Her order, just like Poliwrath's attack, was swept away as the energy I'd fed into Jorm ignited and his form rippled. Energy exploded off him with rainbow arcs and a few moments later a much larger Jorm towered above Poliwrath."Damn it! No fair! I thought Snorlax was going to be the only reveal of this match!" shouted Scarlet, despite grinning.I smiled back. "Blame yourself. I felt you were worthy," I said, before punching my fist forward. "Bulldoze!" I called.Jorm leapt forward, using his explosive attacking power to push himself."Stop them dead with Dynamic Punch!" cried Scarlet, deciding to change her hand.Her pokemon jumped, its fist cocked back and ready to punish Jorm."Roll," I said firmly.Jorm surprised everyone but me by tilting his body so that his head struck the ground. Instead of slamming a fist into Jorm's head, the attack whiffed only for the follow-up strike of Jorm's, much longer, much heavier tail to descend straight onto the falling Poliwrath.Jorm practically volleyball spiked Poliwrath into the ground with Iron Tail.When Jorm rose up I could only grin with pride as Poliwrath was revealed to be out cold from the powerful hit."Damn! Should have known you'd be wise to a Poliwrath's attacks," said Scarlet, with a click of her tongue.She reached for another ball only to pause and eyeball Jormungandr. She wet her lips and held her pose and I realised she was trying to see if she could time out Jorm's Mega-evolution.I smirked and focussed extra energy into the bond, making sure to keep it as stable as possible.It felt a lot easier now compared to the first time. By the time the countdown for Scarlet began to end Jorm wasn't even wavering and I knew I could get a few more hits from him despite the delay.Scarlet shot me a chagrined look as she hurled out her next pokemon but I wasn't too bothered by the tactic. I had to admit it was a valid move, if annoying."Let's go Hitmonlee!" she said, sending out one of the other pokemon I'd guessed. "Get in for Close Combat!" she roared, and Hitmonlee didn't waste any time sprinting towards Jorm.I was feeling a little vindictive so I pointed straight at her pokemon and grinned. "Go," I said firmly, and once again Jormungandr leapt into the attack, only this time when he landed he drove Hitmonlee backJorm surged across the field, Hitmonlee caught on his face stunned for a moment before he snapped off two kicks that made Jorm groan even as he accelerated.A moment later both pokemon slammed into the barrier on the side of the field sending another wave of dust into the air.As the dust cleared around the pulsing yellow barrier, Jormungandr rose up swaying and dizzy.Hitmonlee didn't."The match is four to one!" announced the referee as Scarlet groaned.Scarlet perked up as a glow formed around Jorm, his Mega evolution beginning to dissolve.I could probably get another move in if she was quick to send her next pokemon out but I doubted that was going to happen. I glanced around and noticed all the cameras locked on Jorm. I decided to not reveal all of the tricks to Mega evolution here instead returning him so that people couldn't get too clear an idea of how many moves or how long it would take to run down the clock for Jorm's Mega evolution.Scarlet looked at me with a frown as we both reached for our next pokemon. I had a good idea of who she was going to bring out, just as I had my own choice."Go Vileplume!""Bertha!" I shouted.Bertha appeared with a heavy thump and gave the field a quick look over only to glower at the Grass type that looked very pleased with this match up. Scarlet perked up for all of a moment.Then I crushed her hopes by waving a hand. "Surf combination," I said. Bertha grinned and stepped back, calling up a wave to lift her heavy form.Scarlet frowned only to quickly catch what was coming next. "Petal Dance!" said Scarlet, sending her best move out. Pink petals formed around Vileplume and then shot towards Bertha who merely grinned and leapt behind the onrushing wave, allowing the attack to be weakened before it hit her.Bertha groaned but didn't go down, making Scarlet desperately call for another Petal Dance before the wave reached her pokemon.It was too late, and yet again, Scarlet had committed herself instead of shoring up her defences.I pointed, not needing to give a command as Bertha disgorged a powerful Ice Beam, freezing the wave above Vileplume and making the grass-type pokemon take its own super effective damage.It shivered and pushed its way up only to face another Ice Beam from Bertha as she ended the match.Scarlet sighed and palmed her final pokemon.I held up a hand and returned Bertha much to Scarlet's confusion. A moment later she blinked as I reached for Titan's Greatball."You're a heck of a trainer," I said, before sending out my strongest pokemon to face her strongest.Titan greeted Ampharos with a roar that shook the stadium and Ampharos, instead of quaking in the face of such a strong pokemon, she met it head-on with a growl and a spark lighting up its form.Scarlet punched her fist forward and Ampharos shot straight at Titan, its fist cocked back for what would no doubt be a powerful Focus Punch.Titan swept his tail and a wave of rock stopped Ampharos' advance in its tracks.With the field broken up like this, it was all too easy for Titan to claim it and abuse his foe, hammering hit after hit of Stone Edges into Scarlet's starter."Keep on the pressure!" I shouted. Not relenting with the barrage, if the field hadn't been so broken I might have tried for Earthquake, but with it this way I instead played to my strengths and one of Titan's strongest moves to end the match.Ampharos dove and dodged, but it was unable to evade all the rocks that came its way.I continued to push through, becoming an uncompromising wave of rock. Through my bond Titan could feel my anticipation and he matched me, leaning into his attacks just a little more forcing Ampharos to move quicker.With this amount of pressure I knew it was just a matter of time until I closed it out. I was so close I could taste victory on my tongue.Ampharos took a bad stumble and I felt my excitement peak as Titan fired off a huge Stone Edge that hammered into the off-kilter pokemon.Ampharos collapsed with a pained wail only to land heavily and not stand up.Scarlet returned her pokemon with a sigh.The referee shot their flag up and I blinked as a sudden realisation of what the match being over meant."Ampharos is unable to battle, and that means the winner is, therefore, Brock From Pewter City!"I grinned and unleashed all of my pokemon behind me.From their pokeballs, Tide, Bertha, Jormungandr and Zephyr appeared. They looked around in shock only to catch sight of the scoreboard.Titan stomped his foot signalling he wanted our attention. He punched upwards once and then raised his head and roared in triumph.I joined in with the rest of the pokemon as the tension that had been lingering in my stomach released itself.Nothing was going to happen, no incident was going to demand my attention.My paranoia, justified as it had been in the past, was just that this time, merely paranoia.It had been far too long since I'd felt this way.I let myself bask in the moment.We had won.
186
Celadon was well known for its etiquette. They didn't stomp their feet, or whistle or clap too much.Our victory roar changed that. It demanded that people stand and cheer for us.It compelled them in a way that words never would.They rose, to cheer and applaud so they too could be heard in the maelstrom of noise we unleashed.A pair of nurses sprinted in from the side with another pair of Chansey accompanying them. Each Chansey had a large bed that I recognised as a tool that assisted with healing.One of the nurse-chansey pairs broke towards me and my team while the other sprinted towards Scarlet.It was only then that I realised that I'd been so caught up in my triumph that I had yet to congratulate her on the match.I was about to walk towards her when Nurse Joy reached me. "Brock, for the final ceremony they want all of your pokemon up and ready for the final presentation. There will be several photos and there is a ribbon given to each pokemon to commemorate that they were part of the six pokemon that won the tournament," she said.Each of my pokemon perked up at this, with Bertha stomping her feet up and down happily.To the side, other pokemon moved out of the tunnels with trainers directing them to clean up the field so that large stage could be assembled quickly. I had a flash of deja vu as I realised that this was going to be like Will and Erika's match, only this time I was the victor.Just that alone meant I was going to have most of the cameras on me. With the revelation of Jormungandr being capable of Mega-evolving? I knew the reporters were just chomping at the bit to reach me.I could see a number of security guards staring down zealous-looking reporters that were eying the gaps between each security guard like they could leap over the side of the stands and onto the field. Then they'd have to make it the hundred or so metres without being brought down. They shared glances at each other looking like a pack of penguins from my past life that were judging if they could push one or two weak members of their flock in first to test the waters.Then a commotion occurred.I watched one try for it. They leapt, dodged to the side, only to get taken out when the security guards sent a pokemon after them instead of pursuing themselves.The other men and women manning the line reached for their pokeballs in readiness, while watching the rest of the reporters.The reporters subsided as one of their numbers were dragged away. The woman looked at me frantically, as though I might grant her some form of immunity if she got close enough to question me.I pointedly looked away, pretending I hadn't seen her as I took to waving at the crowd and laughing as my happiness bubbled back up.It still took me a little by surprise to consider that I'd won a tournament like this. I'd won seven rounds of matches to claim the trophy that would soon be presented to me."Ladies, gentlemen, and pokemon of all ages! Thank you for bearing with us as we assembled the stage!" announced the Mayor of Celadon.I glanced over and found that the pokemon were finished. A small army of pokemon and workers were withdrawing even as the Mayor garnered everyone's attention."That!" The Mayor indicated the battlefield that was still being worked on. "That was some match! I think I was on the edge of my seat for more of that than I expected."He gestured to both Scarlet and I. "Let's give our trainers and their pokemon another round of applause!" he said, and a wave of much more controlled cheers swept over the crowd.I bowed towards each set of stands in thanks, my smile still huge on my face as my pokemon copied me. Scarlet waved and it was then I noticed that the nurse on her side wasn't just trending to Scarlet's pokemon but also Scarlet herself.The girl was a bit pale and had a slight tremble. Damn, she'd started to white out there, hadn't she? The fight must have really taken it out of her.The Nurse Joy that had come over to me had only given me a once over and a nod before moving on to my pokemon, with Sanchez being the only pokemon knocked out, she'd had a much easier time. She'd still spent a lot of time looking over Jormungandr.I stepped over to her. "They all good?" I asked, ignoring the Mayor's prattling as I looked over my pokemon again. I doubted any of them had sustained injuries, beyond possibly Sanchez and Bertha, but it was best not to assume."Jorm seems fatigued but that makes all too much sense considering that he mega-evolved." Nurse Joy shook her head. "You do realise that with this I'm going to face a panel of questions being the only medical professional to examine two Mega-evolved pokemon?"I blinked and glanced at her nurse's cap. "Ah, you're the Joy from Saffron?" I said.She bobbed her head up and down before sighing. "I've got a whole two pokemon to draw experience from," she said with a laugh."Any observations?" I asked."Just that he's now low on energy. I'd recommend a more energy-rich diet in the lead-up to matches like this, if you're planning on using that more. It might impact the length of the evolution, or not." She shrugged. "Who's to say.""Alakazam," I replied, not hesitating to name the true expert within Kanto. "He's done a fairly in-depth investigation of Mega-evolution." I chuckled and shook my head. "He will probably have a questionnaire for me to fill out with Jorm already waiting for me in my inbox," I said.Nurse Joy considered this for a moment before nodding. "Can I get his email address?" she asked.I sent her a quick link through my Xtransciever before a polite cough had me looking up to show that a delegation of men and women were now on the stands. It looked like the awards ceremony was set to start.Nurse Joy tapped me on the elbow and led me to a section of the field that was marked out for me and my pokemon. Scarlet was likewise sent to another section. All of her pokemon were back up and looking rather morose.Scarlet was walking among them a small shawl wrapped around her shoulders with what looked like a warm drink in her hand encouraging her pokemon.The Mayor started waxing on about the history of the Celadon tournament, the sponsors and the other dignitaries up on the stage with him. I was surprised to find that the CEO of the Celadon Department Store was up on the stage with what looked like a stack of papers next to her.Hmmmm, coupons for her shop? Shame I'd spent so much already. Still, if they were offering free stuff, I'd happily accept it.The Mayor then waved a hand in both Scarlet and I's direction and I straightened up and refocused."— without the help of our medical staff. For this year's assistance please welcome onto the stage to accept a token of our thanks, Nurses Joy, Joy, and Joy from Celadon, Saffron, and Neon cities, along with their dedicated assistance Pokemon, Chansey, Chansey, and Bellosom!"I blinked when I realised that yes, each Nurse Joy did in fact have a Bellosom on their shoulders. Huh, I must have been more tired than I thought, I hadn't noticed that.The nurses and their pokemon walked up to the stage waving in thanks and for each of them, a large stack of coupons were handed out. The pokemon seemed more interested in the vouchers than the Nurses which drew a bit of laughter from everyone."Now, I'd like to call up this year's runner-up with her pokemon to accept her medal for reaching this far!" said the Mayor. Scarlet held in a tight smile as she advanced forward, leading her pokemon onto the stage.I joined the crowd in clapping for her which seemed to help her pokemon relax as they accepted a silver ribbon from the Mayor each, while Scarlet got herself a silver medallion that hung from her neck. Snorlax almost fell over causing a small moment where the dignitaries looked like they were about to throw themselves from the stage in case a Fissure went off by accident, only for the Snorlax to catch himself and grin sleepily.Scarlet just giggled and shook her head at her pokemon's antics and the look of fear on some of the dignitaries' faces. I had to admit that I was rather impressed with how the Celadon Mayor hadn't even twitched in fear.Scarlet stepped to the side and a formal picture was taken with her shaking the hand of the mayor before she was asked to move along.I wet my lips and felt my smile returning. So this was what winning a tournament was like?"And now, I'd like to introduce, to the stage, this year's tournament winner! Brock and his team of Pokemon featuring Sanchez, Jormungandr, Bertha, Tide, Zephyr and Titan!" said the Mayor.Each of my pokemon wiggled. With glee as they were announced. They happily accepted a golden ribbon. A small altercation arose however when Bertha received her. She eyed the small ribbon that had been given to her, and then looked at the Celadon Mayor's gold and green sash.She made a gesture, pointing at the sash while holding out her ribbon.The Mayor blinked in surprise and I was about to signal Titan to nudge her along for being a nuisance when the Mayor surprised everyone by weeping his sash off and trading it for Bertha's ribbon.Bertha happily wrapped the sash around her neck and stomped off to the side with a huge grin.This prompted Sanchez to roll back onto the stage and examine the other dignitaries for something he might like to trade.When he approached a man for his tophat I facepalmed. I didn't call for him to stop, even as the crowd broke with a wave of laughter. The poor dignitary didn't quite seem to know what to make of this and simply gave Sanchez his tophat.I sighed and shook my head. If people were going to accept the deals, then I'd let my pokemon make them. They obviously wanted those rather than the ribbons.When it was my turn to follow up and shake hands. I made sure to pause and give the man who'd lost a tophat, and the mayor a furtive. "I'll pay you back for those," I said as they returned the ribbons to me.The Mayor waved me off. "Don't let it bother you! I have two more of those." He then indicated the podium. "Would you like to say a few words for the crowd?"I paused. I hadn't been planning to speak, but I did have a few people to thank.I stepped up, a smile still firmly fixed in place. "Well, this is a new experience for me," I said with a chuckle. "It's been a while since I've gotten a chance to take part in a tournament, and I have to say that I think Celadon's has been the best I've taken part in." I laughed. "And that's not something I'm just saying because I won!"This got a few laughs from the crowd as I rubbed the back of my head. "I say this in recognition of all the work that has been put into preparing the grounds that the tournament took part at. One hundred and eight trainers descended onto Celadon for the tournament, and I have no doubt more followed to witness this event."Celadon and the tournament organisers have handled themselves well and made this a memorable event. So first, to the people of Celadon City, thank you for hosting this event! For the organisers, both those who are staffers and those who volunteered, thank you for your work in making this a smooth-running tournament. I haven't heard of any complaints, in fact, I have heard nothing but good things so you are to be commended."I waved a hand towards the signs denoting the sponsors. "As the Mayor said, the sponsors should also earn another round of thanks for allowing this tournament to go ahead like this. It is through their contributions that each tournament will continue to grow.""To the other Pokemon trainers, those that I fought and those that took part, thank you for signing on and giving it your all. I don't care if you only had the one fight, or if you made it into the later rounds. You showed up and you put yourselves out there. You will have tested the bonds you share with your Pokemon and will have tested others. Your competitive spirit drives the creation of events such as this and for being great competitors you have my thanks."I turned to Scarlet and her team. "Scarlet, you were a wonderful final opponent. You pushed me to reveal a trick I wasn't sure I'd need. Your pokemon team is well-trained, and you have a great understanding of diversity and covering your weaknesses. Your current Ace ranking will, I have no doubt, be a temporary thing as you continue to challenge others. I have no doubt that you belong in the top twenty Ace trainers at least. Please don't settle for just that though as I think you have a wonderful understanding which will only continue to grow. Thank you for testing me and my Pokemon, the match against you was extremely enjoyable."I turned back to the stands. "I will bore you all with three more groups that deserve thanks, my family, who have been there with me and supported me in ways that you can't truly put into words," I said. I pointedly didn't say, through thick or thin, as that wasn't always true."My trainer entourage both here and back in Pewter, you help out in a lot of different ways and help push me to achieve everything that I have set my eyes on. With this year's difficulties I have little doubt that I would have been consumed by the workload if it wasn't for your assistance."I turned back to the stage and waved a hand to my pokemon. "And finally, my pokemon. There are more of you that have contributed than just the six on display. Some of them are watching from afar, and some of them are no longer with us." I let my smile turn a little brittle."I'm sure there are a lot of people out there wondering about the specific makeup of my team. There are perhaps better choices, tonight's six represent something different than just strength though."I'd planned this team mostly as a tribute to the pokemon that had been part of my Journey the longest.Sanchez had of course been a stand-in for Dwayne, just as Jorm was a replacement for Guybro.Scarlet was good enough that I needed to bring out all the stops.It was a good thing my original team had featured an Onix."This team represents the pokemon that went the furthest with me on my Journey, some of them are my strongest pokemon and also the pokemon that have been with me the longest." I grinned."We never won a tournament when we were on our Journey, and for a long time, I had let that dream fade." I let my smile turn soft as I sought out the central camera and stared straight down the lens."If you were like me, and you're sitting at home, thinking that the world and your dreams have passed you by, I hope my victory tonight can resonate with you. Don't give up on your dreams, sometimes they're closer than you realise. Tonight, one of my dreams has come true and I plan to celebrate it with my friends and loved ones. I hope the same will be true for you."With that said, I stepped back and waved the Mayor forward. The Mayor, instead of taking up the mic again, merely waved me towards the trophy, a huge smile on his face.I marched towards it and only then did the mayor speak up. "This year's tournament victor! BROCK from Pewter City!"I lifted the trophy and felt the surge of elation sweep through me as fireworks erupted around me and my pokemon.I walked back to my team showing them the trophy and they all sniffed and poked it. Sanchez took it from me and stood front and centre with it raised above his head. I heard the staccato of cameras going off at this and had to laugh as other pokemon in my team mimicked him.I hummed and decided to release the other pokemon that had taken part in the tournament who I had on hand. Zubat I'd sent home, hopefully, to watch the match from the lounge room with my siblings.Don happily bunched in with Link, Gawain and Empress to let photos be taken of him.Empress didn't seem to know what to make of it and she twitched and growled as photons continued to bombard her. "Hey girl, if this is a bit much I can return you?" I offered.Empress nodded quickly and I did so, leaving the others to bask in the moment. When I marched over to shake hands with Scarlet finally, Link and Titan followed me across to say a few of their own words with the pokemon."You mean all that?" she asked as she shook my hand."Every word," I said.Scarlet nodded and then slapped her face with her hands. "Argh! Now I feel super motivated!" she roared looking to the side only to wilt. "Urgh it's a shame we have to do the press conference after this," she said.I blinked and felt my own spirit wilt. She was right, and soon enough a group of very polite assistants herded us towards a table and chairs with a backdrop of all the sponsors set up behind us. I kept Titan and Link out. Link caused a small commotion by getting himself a chair before sitting next to me like he expected questions to come his way. I think he was just trying to be polite.Scarlet decided to copy me with her Ampharos."Gym Leader Brock! How long have you had a pokemon that could Mega evolve?" said one reporter."Just after Sabrina's match she showed me the final tricks to it, it has been something I have been working on for a while now. Sabrina and I have been working under Alakazam to create some research papers that a few people are aware of already but if you're interested in learning more I'd watch the academic spaces as there are several discussions that are going to occur in the future on this.""So it's fair to say that you have known about Mega evolutions for a while now? But you've been keeping quiet about it?"I nodded. "I have, it has been an advantage I've clung to. The knowledge of Jorm being able to do this has been something that only a few trainers were aware of before today.""How do you think he went on his first showing? Is this the extent of his power?""Tonight is not the first time I have had to use Jormungandr's Mega evolution. The first instance was in fact during the recent policing action that I was involved in where I had to fight a number of pokemon at once. Jorm and several other pokemon performed well but I was able to use him to great effect to see the criminals in custody thanks to him."This caused a small round of murmuring to break out."What do you say about there now being three trainers that are capable of Mega evolving their pokemon? Does it feel good knowing that for now, Kanto has the lead over other regions?"I hummed. I had caught Steven Stone's match against Drake and he'd used his Metagross to great effect. "I don't think that's something we will need to concern ourselves with too much. It's not going to turn into the latest and greatest threat but something that will proliferate throughout the various levels of trainers.""So you've had a look at Steven Stone's rumoured 'catalogue' then?" prompted one reporter.I hummed in thought. "I am aware of the current rumours circulating the pokenet with regards to this." I took a moment to take a sip of water. I knew what I was about to say was going to set the Sharpedo among the Seel."I have seen the catalogue in question as Steven offered it to me months ago. I will state that Steven was not accepting money at the time for the stone I ended up acquiring. If that has changed I am as yet unsure."The questions, as I'd expected, came quick and hard."Which pokemon was on this list that could have stones?" "Has this been verified?!" "What was he asking for?" "Are you now a Hoenn mouthpiece!?""There were many pokemon but I honestly expect that list to grow as more people investigate it. Off the top of my head, Steven had Gardevoirite, Ampharosite, Charizardite, Blastoisinite, Blazikenite, Houndoominite, Mawilite, Metagrossite, Sharpedonite, Steelixite, Slowbronite, Salamencite, and Beedrillite."Next to me, Scarlet twitched in surprise and her starter perked up. Another round of murmurs swept through the reporters and one man was quick to react, his microphone turning towards Scarlet. "How does it make you feel knowing that a Mega-evolution is possible for you and your pokemon?""It feels like I've been offered a terrible temptation," said Scarlet. "Also, knowing that this is possible and that people will need to pay exorbitant fees for a power-up like that? I'm… a bit worried about what this will mean for Ace matches.""Could you elaborate?""Is this not something else that will be gated to just the rich and powerful?" Scarlet said, and I blinked as I realised she was right.I nodded along with what she had to say. "You saw what happened when Brock used his, my pokemon suddenly had a much steeper hill to climb despite the type advantage it had, or… rather, should have had. I still don't understand what exactly happened."I nodded along, feeling that these were valid criticisms."Brock? Do you feel you had an unfair advantage?""I can see where she's coming from but I also have to point out one thing, Mega evolutions are not by any metric simple or straightforward. They are a process that underpins much of our world. As Mega-evolution is right now, it is reliant on the bond you have with your pokemon. It will not be something any trainer can buy, then turn around and purchase a pokemon that is compatible with the stone. It requires serious effort in building and an awareness of the bond you have with your pokemon.""Didn't you say it took you months?"I wobbled my hand in a so-so gesture. "Somewhat, a lot of the foundations for what I needed to do started… years ago," I said.I turned to Scarlet. "I think she raised a good point however, in that there is potential for abuse with these stones. Those who do have access to the Mega evolution are going to have an advantage, and while it requires hard work I think there needs to be opportunity, or at the least an even playing field to some extent.""How would you propose that?" asked one reporter.I chewed my lip and had to shake my head. "I'm… not sure as yet, but I think it is something I will spend some time talking to others about and seriously considering."From there more questions followed and some of them I answered but after the Mega Stone access issue had been pointed out to me by Scarlet, I felt like I couldn't ignore it. She'd been right, I did have a huge advantage, and I didn't feel too bad about using it, but how would it seem if it became more widespread?People already wanted to see more from Sabrina. When it spread throughout Ace trainers and such there would be a growing demand for viewers and more. This… would need to be handled very carefully.You either needed to restrict them or let everyone have a chance and with Steven Stone holding all the megastones currently, he held all the power.I paused when I considered that a little more.Hmmmm, there might be someone who could help edge out Steven's monopoly now that I thought about it some more.I spent the rest of the night with my team of trainers and pokemon at a specialised restaurant called Ala Kabonara which was known for its high-quality food. Sabrina appeared with her own pokemon and the mood was extremely festive.Everyone wanted to touch or take photos with the trophy and Rachel was having a field day with capturing photos for the Gym's pokenet page.When we were done we collected ourselves and Sabrina teleported us home to a sleepy family that awoke to give us all cuddles and kisses. For a moment I thought they might all fall back asleep without issue, then they caught sight of the trophy I'd been given to hold onto for a year and they woke up very quickly.I shared a look with Flint. "Is tomorrow a school day?" I said, having well and truly lost track by this stage.Flint sighed and nodded. "Oh well, it's not every day that your big brother wins a tournament like this." He clapped me on the shoulder. "Congratulations, you were incredible out there.""Yeah you were! I liked it when Jorm was like Fwoosh! Then rawr! Then wham!" said Tommy excitedly. His hands going in every direction as he pantomimed Jorm's mega evolution."Munch!" said Munchlax with a pleased look on his face.I nodded along. "Yeah! That Snorlax wasn't what I was expecting and it was really strong!" I said, causing Munchlax to swell with pride for his evolved form.Yolanda nodded her head. "I was surprised! I hadn't realised Snorlax were so strong!"I chuckled. "It gets overlooked cause of how much work it is to get them to train, and the expenses associated with them, but they are powerful pokemon that can tank and deal out a lot of damage."This drew Salvadore into the discussion and allowed me to step away to prepare the presents pile with Yolanda.When we turned around our family was watching us with glinting, greedy eyes.I shot Yolanda a look. "Welcome to being an older sibling," I said, before calling up the first sibling to get their present from each of us. This helped to control the otherwise guaranteed chaos of a small wave of children reaching for presents.When everything was done two presents remained. "Who are those for?" asked Yolanda.I handed her one, causing her to blush in surprise while the other I stuffed into a cupboard. "The other one is for Forrest, but he can wait to receive it," I said, pushing it into a pile of other such presents I'd been collecting on my various trips away for him."Awww!" I didn't know you kept those for him!" Yolanda said happily.I winked at her as she opened her present to find a fire-type pokemon kit for grooming and dealing with common injuries. "Does this mean I can start training a Spot officially?" she said excitedly."You can train him, but that doesn't mean you—" My words were cut off as Yolanda glomped me."Thankyou thankyou thankyou!" she said happily.I sighed. Who was I kidding? Yolanda was going to depart here with at least a team of six pokemon ready to go. How strong those pokemon were would be up to her.I handed Flint a small present while the others were distracted. Flint blinked. "Oh, thank you," he said, opening it to find a nice shaving kit."I think I want to pick your brain over something that was said during the press conference," I said to him, from the side of my mouth. Sabrina, who'd stuck around perked up upon hearing this and stepped closer. I'd mentioned my thoughts to her and now she listened intently."Yes? What specifically?""If you knew what sorts of Pokemon could Mega Evolve, do you think you could investigate certain regions or know where to look to find Mega stones or Keystones?" I asked seriously.I might not know what I would do with them, but it would be better to have options than not.Steven Stone, would not remain the only option for people to get Mega Stones if I had my say. I wasn't going to wait around until we discovered Kalos.I'd even the playing field as best I could for as many people as possible.It was merely a new challenge.Flint tentatively nodded his head and I felt my small glimmer of hope grow.I got an agreement with Flint to talk with him later tomorrow before plucking the trophy from Cindy's hands. "This is going in the trophy case," I said proudly, marching it towards the glass case that housed photos of me and the family, my badge case, and for now?The Celadon Ace trophy. It looked damn good in there.Today, I concluded as I observed the trophy, had been a good day. I noticed Sabrina giving me a look with promise attached to it and I turned, ready to announce that it was time for bed.Before I could do that, Suzie walked up with Cindy in tow. "Brock, Sabrina? Are you going to form a magical girl team?"Yolanda giggled as Tommy, Billy, and Timmy all looked poleaxed at this question.Sabrina gave me a thoughtful look. "He does look good in a dress… Hmmmm I think he can be a reserve member for now," she said jokingly.The girls nodded along in understanding and Suzie patted me on the arm. "There there, you can apply again I'm sure."I huffed and swept Sabrina's legs out from under her causing her to giggle at me as I shot the rest of my family a stern look. "Good night family!" I said, taking Sabrina to bed.