Monday, August 19, 2024

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 10

Louise and Ping soon arrived at the Fire-Type Gym, and her team consisted of Emmet, Luisa, Diana, Rockette, Puja, and Mupyon (her Golurk). When they entered the Gym, Quin was nowhere to be seen. Instead, it was another one of the Equalite Grunts, Ransho.

“Sorry, but Shenji isn’t home.” He said. “He moved to, uh, Unova!”

“That’s absurd!” Said Ping. “He can’t handle the filthy air of Unova.”

“He moved to one of the cleaner towns in Unova.” Countered Ransho. While the two men were talking, Louise explored the Gym and found something very surprising in the closet: It was Shenji tied to a chair with a sock in his mouth! She yanked the sock out of his mouth and untied him.

“Thank you so much!” Said Ransho. “I need to change my clothes, brush my teeth and tongue, and take my shower.” He then looked at Ransho. “Wait a minute. You’re the one who tied me up! Let me at you!”

“You don’t even have your Pokemon with you, Mr. I’m-Afraid-of-Germs!” Retorted Ransho. “I took them from you and placed them in my satchel.” Ping soon had enough of this arguing.

“You’re both acting like children!” He shouted. “Shenji, you take a shower. Louise, go battle Ransho to settle this feud. Besides, he knows where Gong Shen is located.”

“That’s right!” Said Ransho. “But I’m saying a word unless you beat me. Go, Rotom!” Heat Rotom was sent out.

“I choose you!” Said Louise. “Diana!” Diana was sent out.

“Rotom!” Said Ransho. “Use Discharge!” Rotom attacked everything around it with electricity, leaving Diana with 80% of her HP.

“Diana!” Said Louise. “Use Stone Edge!” Diana stabbed Rotom with sharp stones, leaving the Plasma Pokemon with half its HP.

“Rotom!” Said Ransho. “Use Overheat!” Rotom attacked Diana with all its power, but it did little damage to the Carbink.

“What the Ducklett?” Ransho exclaimed. “Your Carbink is supposed to melt from the heat!”

“Looks like someone didn’t do their research!” Laughed Louise. “Rock-Type Pokemon are resistant to Fire-Type attacks. Diana, use Power Gem!” Diana attacked Rotom with a ray of light that sparkled as if it were made of gemstones, and the Plasma Pokemon fainted.

“Luckily, my next Pokemon is a beast in every use of the word!” Said Ransho, returning Rotom to its Poke Ball. “Go, Houndoom!” Houndoom was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Diana!” Said Louise, returning the Carbink to her Poke Ball. “Go, Emmet!” Emmet was sent out, and he was holding a Water Gem in his right paw.

“Emmet!” Said Louise. “Use Wave Crash!” Emmet shrouded himself in water and slammed into the target with full force, making Houndoom faint.

“Time to bring out the big guns!” Said Ransho, returning Houndoom to her Poke Ball. “Go, Incineroar!” Incineroar was sent out, but its fire belt was missing.

“Something seems off.” Said Ping. “That Incineroar is missing its fire belt. Something tells me that it’s either a Ditto or a Zoroark. Better send out Luisa just in case.”

“Already on it!” Said Louise as she returned Emmet to his Poke Ball. “Go, Luisa!” Luisa was sent out.

“Incineroar!” Said Ransho. “Use Flamethrower!” ‘Incineroar’ breathed very hot flames on Luisa, leaving the Hariyama with 75% of her HP.

“Luisa!” Said Louise. “Use Drain Punch!” Luisa attacked ‘Incineroar’ with an energy-draining punch, which not only restored her HP, but also uncovered the Heel Pokemon’s true identity: A Zoroark.

“A Zoroark?” Asked Ping. “Isn’t that cheating?”

“Yeah? Well, Flint in Sinnoh used to have Steelix, Lopunny, and Drifblim before releasing them in the wild!” Retorted Ransho. “Zoroark, use Aerial Ace!” Zoroark confounded Luisa with speed and slashed, dealing 60 Hit Points to the Hariyama.

“Hariyama!” Said Louise. “Use Close Combat!” Luisa fought Zoroark in close without guarding herself, and the Illusion Fox Pokemon fainted.

“I still have one more chance!” Said Ransho as he returned Sharpedo to his Poke Ball. “Go, Salazzle!” Salazzle was sent out, and she had a Focus Sash wrapped around her neck like a scarf.

“You deserve a rest, Luisa!” Said Louise, returning the Hariyama to her Poke Ball. “Go, Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“Salazzle!” Said Ransho. “Use Attract!” Salazzle blew a kiss at Rockette to make the Golem fall in love with her, but nothing happened.

“Rockette is a girl, you dumbo!” Said Louise. “Rockette, use Earthquake!” Rockette shook the floor violently, leaving the Toxic Lizard Pokemon with one Hit Point left.

“Salazzle!” Said Ransho. “Use Trailblaze!” Salaazle attacked Rockette suddenly as if leaping out from tall grass, dealing 50 Hit Points to the Golem.

“Golem!” Said Louise. “Use Bulldoze!” Rockette stomped down on the ground and attacked everything around her, making Salazzle faint.

“Okay, I give up.” Admitted Ransho. “Gong Shen is in Ducai. He will be in the City Hall.”

“I should have known.” Said Ping.

“Why didn’t you go back to Ducai in the first place?” Asked Louise.

“He threatened to kill me and my Pokemon.” Responded the Professor. “Also, there was no wifi on the plane that I boarded to Johto.”

“Then let’s go!” Said Louise, as she returned Rockette to her Poke Ball and hurried over to Ducai, with Ping following in pursuit.

“What am I, chopped liver?” Asked Ransho. Emmet soon ran towards Ransho to take his satchel to return the stolen Pokemon to Quin.

Author's Note: In Pokemon Diamond and Pearl, since there are only five Fire-Type Pokemon native to Sinnoh (Chimchar, Monferno, Infernape, Ponyta, and Rapidash), the Fire-Type Elite Four member Flint uses three Pokemon that are not part Fire: Steelix, Lopunny, and Drifblim. Luckily, they fixed it in Platinum by replacing those Pokemon with Flareon, Houndoom, and Magmortar.

Sunday, August 18, 2024

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 9

Louise and Ping soon arrived at the Water-Type Gym, and her team consisted of Maggie, Bella, Luisa, Pip & Squeak (her Maushold), Rosey, and Puja for good measure. When they entered the Gym, Quin was nowhere to be seen. Instead, it was one of the Equalite Grunts, Xi.

“Looking for Quin?” She asked. “He’s not here right now, but if you beat me, I’ll tell you where to go next.”

“Deal.” Said Louise.

“Okay.” Said Xi. “Just because you’re a different size doesn’t mean I’ll go easy on you. Go, Tentacruel!” Tentacruel was sent out.

“I choose you!” Said Louise. “Maggie!” Maggie was sent out, and it was holding an Electric Gem.

“Tentacruel!” Said Xi. “Use Toxic Spikes!” Tentacruel laid a trap of poisonous spikes at the feet of Louise’s team, and whoever got sent out next would get poisoned.

“Maggie!” Said Louise. “Use Thunderbolt!” Maggie dropped a wicked bolt of lightning on Tentacruel, and the Jellyfish Pokemon fainted.

“How is that possible?!” Shouted Xi as she returned Tentacruel to her Poke Ball. “Tentacruel has very high Special Defense!”

“I’ve been training to use different Items!” Answered Louise.

“Well, you better not switch out your next Pokemon!” Said Xi. “Go, Toxapex!” Toxapex was sent out.

“That was outstanding, Maggie!” Said Louise, returning the Magnezone to its Poke Ball. “Go, Puja!” Puja was sent out, and she was wearing Heavy-Duty Boots.

“How is your Hypno not poisoned?” Asked Xi.

“Any Pokemon wearing those boots will be immune to traps.” Explained Ping.

“Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Hypnosis!” Puja employed hypnotic suggestion to make Toxapex fall asleep.

“Wake up, stupid!” Commanded Xi, but the Brutal Star Pokemon refused to wake up.

“Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Dream Eater!” Puja ate the dream of Toxapex, leaving the Poison-Type Pokemon with half her HP. With no dreams going on in her brain, Toxapex woke up.

“Toxapex!” Said Xi. “Use Lunge!” Toxapex lunged at Puja with full force, leaving the Hypno with 80% of her HP.

“Hypno!” Said Louise. “Use Zen Headbutt!” Puja crashed into Toxapex head-first, leaving the Brutal Pokemon with 20% of her HP.

“Toxapex!” Said Xi. “Use Liquidation!” Toxapex slammed herself into Puja using a full blast of water, leaving the Hypno with half her HP.

“Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Psyshock!” Puja materialized an odd psychic wave to attack Toxapex, and the Brutal Star Pokemon fainted.

“Luckily, my next Pokemon can counter many Types!” Said Xi as she returned Toxapex to her Poke Ball. “Go, Lanturn!” Lanturn was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Puja!” Said Louise, returning the Hypno to her Poke Ball. “Go, Bella!” Bella was sent out, and she had a Yache Berry in her mouth.

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Leaf Storm!” Bella whipped up a storm of sharp leaves that scooped up Lanturn, leaving the Light Pokemon with 40% of his HP.

“Lanturn!” Said Xi. “Use Ice Beam!” Lanturn fired an icy beam at Bella, but luckily, the Yache Berry weakened the attack.

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Energy Ball!” Bella fired a ball of energy at Lanturn, and the Light Pokemon fainted.

“I still have one more chance!” Said Xi, returning Lanturn to his Poke Ball. “Go, Sharpedo!” Sharpedo was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Bella!” Said Louise, returning the Victreebel to her Poke Ball. “Go, Maggie!” Maggie was sent out.

“Sharpedo!” Said Xi. “Use Earthquake!” Shapredo shook the ground violently, and this move would’ve made Maggie faint, but it had one Hit Point left thanks to its Sturdy Ability.

“Maggie!” Said Louise. “Use Thunderbolt!” Maggie dropped a wicked bolt of lightning on Sharpedo, leaving the Brutal Pokemon with 40% of his HP.

“Sharpedo!” Said Xi. “Use Crunch!” Sharpedo bit at Maggie with sharp fangs, and even though it made the Magnezone faint, the Brutal Pokemon had some teeth break off.

“You did a great job, Maggie!” Said Louise, returning the Magnezone to its Poke Ball. “Go, Luisa!” Luisa was sent out, but Xi couldn’t help but laugh.

“Don’t you know anything, fatso?” She said. “Sharpedo has the Ability Rough Skin, and any physical attacks will harm the Defending Pokemon!”

“That’s a risk I’m willing to take!” Said Louise. “Luisa, use Close Combat!” Luisa fought Sharpedo in close without guarding herself, and the Brutal Pokemon fainted. She also hurt her hands from touching Shapredo.

“I can’t believe it!” Said Xi, returning Sharpedo to his Poke Ball. “I won’t tell you where Gong Shen is, but I will tell you where to go next: The Fire-Type Gym, but don’t expect Shenji to be there.

“Maybe we’ll find another clue, Louise.” Said Ping. “Come on. Let’s find another Pokemon Center to heal your Pokemon and change your team.”

Author's notes: When a Pokemon wears Heavy-Duty Boots, it will not be affected by trap movies such as Spikes, Stealth Rock, and Sticky Web.
When a Pokemon holds a Yache Berry, it weakens the damage from a super-effective Ice-Type attack. This is useful since there are four Types that are weak against Ice: Grass, Flying, Ground, and Dragon.

Saturday, August 17, 2024

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 8

 Three days have passed, and all of Louise’s Pokemon have been fully evolved. She and Ping were now on a small boat to Wushu City. Louise’s party included Magie (who was now a Magnezone), Rockette (who was now a Golem), Puja, Emmet, Diana (her Carbink), and Luisa (who was now a Hariyama).

“Do you really think I have a chance of beating Gong Shen?” Louise asked Ping.

“Of course, you do!” Replied the Professor. “You’re one of the strongest Trainers younger than 20 that I’ve ever met!”

“Now arriving at Wushu Harbor!” Said the captain. Upon hearing that, Louise looked around and saw Wushu City. However, all the Trainers had shackles on their legs and had either Poison, Dark, or Electric-Type Pokemon.

“Where are Terra and Yuza?” Asked Ping as he and Louise got out of the boat. “They’d be mortified by this!”

“They’re on their own sidequest.” Said Zhang as she revealed herself. “You must be Louise. I’ve been following you on PikaGram, and you’re really talented.”

“Thank you.” Said Louise, only to realize it was sarcasm. “Hey!”

“If you want to find Gong Shen,” Said Zhang. “Then you have to defeat me without the help of Gingko!”

“Challenge accepted!” Said Louise. “You go first!”

“You asked for it, chubbo!” Said Zhang. “Go, Honchkrow!” Honchkrow was sent out.

“I choose you!” Said Louise. “Maggie!” Maggie was sent out.

“I just remembered!” Said the captain. “I have to visit Pacifidlog Town!” He then rode off in his boat.

“Honchkrow!” Said Zhang. “Use Heatwave!” Honchkrow exhaled hot breath on Magnezone, dealing great damage to the Magnet Area Pokemon.’

“Maggie!” Said Louise. “Use Thunder!” Maggie dropped a wicked bolt of lightning on Honchkrow, and the Big Boss Pokemon fainted.

“You just got lucky!” Said Zhang, returning Honchkrow to his Poke Ball. “Go, Electivire!” Electivire was sent out.

“That was excellent, Maggie!” Said Joe, returning Maggie to its Poke Ball. “Go, Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“Electivire!” Said Zhang. “Use Brick Break!” Electivire delivered a quick punch to Rockette, and this could’ve knocked out the Golem, but luckily, she had a Chople Berry that weakened the damage.

“Rockette!” Said Louise. “Use Earthquake!” Rockette shook the ground violently (luckily, they were no longer on the dock), and the Motor Drive Pokemon fainted.

“Electivire just has bad Defense stats!” Said Zhang, returning the Motor Drive Pokemon to her Poke Ball. “Go, Muk!” Muk was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Rockette!” Said Louise, returning the Megaton Pokemon to her Poke Ball. “Go, Puja!” Puja was sent out.

“Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Psychic!” Puja hit Muk with a strong telekinetic force, leaving the Sludge Pokemon with half her HP.

“Muk!” Said Zhang. “Use Fling!” Muk grabbed her Poison Barb and threw it at Puja, poisoning the Hypno.

“You can still do it, Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Psychic once more!” Puja hit Muk with another strong telekinetic force, and the Sludge Pokemon fainted.

“I used up half my team!” Said Zhang, returning Muk to her Poke Ball. “Go, Toxtricity!” Low Key Toxtricity was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Puja!” Said Louise, returning the Hypno to her Poke Ball. “Go!” Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“You better use an Item first.” Said Ping. “Louise pulled a Max Potion out of her bag and sprayed medicine on Rockette. Zhang couldn’t help but laugh.

“You know the rules!” Said Zhang. “Using an Item uses up a turn! Toxtricity, use Belch!” Toxtricity tried letting out a loud burp, but nothing happened.

“Look who forgot the rules, now!” Said Ping. “A Pokemon needs to eat a Berry to perform Belch.”

“Right you are, Mr. Gingko!” Said Louise. “Rockette, use Earthquake!” Rockette shook the ground violently, and the Punk Pokemon fainted.

“Luckily, my next Pokemon is my strongest!” Said Zhang, returning Toxtricity to her Poke Ball. “Go, Nidoqueen!” Nidoqueen was sent out.

“That was excellent, Rockette!” Said Louise, returning the Golem to her Poke Ball. “Go, Emmet!” Emmet was sent out.

“Emmet!” Said Louise. “Use Aqua Tail!” Emmet smacked Nidoqueen with his mighty tail, leaving the Drill Pokemon with half her HP.

“Nidoqueen!” Said Zhang. “Use Thunder Punch!” Nidoqueen lit her right fist with lightning and slugged Emmet with it, leaving the Floatzel with a quarter of his HP.

“Emmet!” Said Louise. “Use Hydro Pump!” Emmet fired lots of water at Nidoqueen, and the Drill Pokemon fainted.

“This is my last chance!” Said Zhang, returning Nidoqueen to her Poke Ball. “Go, Morpeko!” Morpeko was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Emmet!” Said Louise, returning the Floatzel to her Poke Ball. “Go, Luisa!” Luisa was sent out.

“Morpeko!” Said Zhang. “Use Aura Wheel!” Morpeko attacked Luisa and raised her speed with the energy stored in her cheeks. The Two-Sided Pokemon later changed from yellow to purple.

“Luisa!” Said Louise. “Use Earthquake!” Luisa shook the ground violently, making Morpeko faint.

“Alright, alright!” Said Zhang, returning Morpeko to her Poke Ball. “I won’t tell you where Gong Shen is, but I will tell you that the next place you should go to is…” Zhang was knocked out by a Scizor.

“Great job, Scizor!” Said Yuza. “Sorry that we were absent for so long. A Grunt captured the Treasures of Ruin and pitted them against me and Terra. Right now, she’s returning them to their natural habitats.”

“But where am I supposed to go next?” Asked Louise.

“You can go to either the Water or Fire-Type Gyms.” Said Yuza. “I will go to the Grass-Type Gym.”

“Guess I’ll go to the Water-Type Gym first.” Said Louise. “But is there a Pokemon Center nearby without Grunts? I need to heal my Pokemon and change my team.”

Author's Notes: PikaGram is a spoof on Instagram.
Pacifidlog Town is a location in Hoenn that is located on the water. One of the NPCs will give you a Corsola in exchange for a Bellossom: That's like trading a Musharna in exchange for a Castform!
When given to a Pokemon, a Chople Berry reduces the damage of a super-effective Fighting-Type attack. This is especially useful since there are five different Types weak against Fighting.

Friday, August 16, 2024

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 7

Later, Louise, Ping, and Slowqueen arrived at Mt. Mortar. Louise brought Weepinbell to help defeat and catch Carbink, if one would even pop out.

“How are we gonna get DJ Ben to play Kalosian music?” Asked Louise. “He only plays that music on Saturdays, and today’s Friday.”

“I have my way.” Replied Ping, as he pulled out his cellphone and started calling DJ Ben.

“This is Pokemon Radio on Channel 7.5!” He said. “This is DJ Ben speaking, and right now, we’re playing Unova Route 1! What can I do for you today?”

“This is Professor Ping Gingko from Pinghei.” Said the Professor. “I need you to play Kalosian music today, please. It’s an emergency.”

“Sorry, but that’s against our policy.” Said DJ Ben. “You’ll have to wait until tomorrow to hear that kind of music.” This made Ping angry.

“Listen, you!” He shouted into the phone. “We only have who knows how long until Gong Shen decides to take over other Regions! DO YOU WANT TO BE REDUCED TO USING JUST ELECTRIC, POISON, AND DARK-TYPE POKEMON?!”

“Geez, you don’t have to yell about it.” Said Ben. “Okay, I’ll play Kalosian music, but that means I have to play different music tomorrow. What should I play?”

“How about I Love Magikarp?” Asked Louise. “I listened to that song all the time five years ago.”

“Okay.” Said Ben. “But I don’t know what Pokemon will pop up when I play that song.”

“Find out for yourself!” Said Louise. “We have to get going now.”

“Roger that!” Said Ben, and he played Kalosian music. Ping hung up on the phone, Louise turned the Radio for the Poke Gear on, and the three entered the cave. After a few minutes of spelunking, a Carbink fell to the cave floor.

“A wild Carbink appeared!” Remarked Ping.

“I got this, Mr. Gingko.” Said Louise. “Go, Bella!” Bella was sent out.

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Razor Leaf!” Bella fired sharp leaves at Carbink, and the Jewel Pokemon fainted.

“That was easier than I thought.” Said Ping. “Now throw a Poke Ball!”

“Good thing I went shopping!” Said Louise, as she pulled out a Dusk Ball at Carbink. After a few seconds of wobbling, the Poke Ball clicked.

“That was easier than I thought.” Said Louise. “But why did I catch a Carbink and not a Shuckle or a Diglett?”

“Carbink is said to be related to Diancie, and Diancie is revered in Pinghei as much as Lugia and Ho-Oh are in Johto.” Ping explained. “Something tells me that your Carbink might mutate into Diancie. However, after your adventure, I think you should catch some Mono-Type Pokemon in case you want to challenge Gym Leaders or E4 Members. Dual-Type Pokemon can have drawbacks, you know.”

“I know.” Replied Louise. “But first, we need to evolve Oliver and Maggie. As well as return Slowqueen to Mahina in Alola.”

“You’re right.” Said Ping. “We should return to the Global Trade Station!”

—----------------------------------------------

Meanwhile, Gong Shen was relaxing in Professor Gingko’s office with his feet on his desk. Suddenly, an Equalite with a Murkrow entered the building to inform Shen about news he got on PikaGram.

“What is it, Hunda?” He asked.

“It’s this Trainer from Johto!” Said Hunda, pulling out his Poryphone. “She’s been trained by Professor Gingko to defeat you. And she caught a Carbink!”

“No way.” Said Shen. “Tell Ransho, Xi and Lani to take over the Fire, Water, and Grass-Type Gyms and Zhang to head to the harbor in Wushu City. We’ll get ready to crush this girl like a Bug-Type!” As the Grunts buzzed off, Shen went to the closet to reveal Hao tied to a chair.

“Louise will stop you.” He said. “The prophecy says so.”

“And I’m the King of Kalos.” Said Shen. “Besides, how strong can an overweight teenage girl be?”

Author's Notes: In Pokemon Gold and Silver, along with the remakes HeartGold and SoulSilver, the Goldenrod City Radio Tower, the radio show is hosted by a DJ named Ben. The other characters claim that Ben has a charming and soothing voice.
I Love Magikarp, or The Magikarp Song, is a song about the infamous Water-Type fish, Magikarp. You can listen to the English dub of the song in the link below.

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 6

By the next day, five of Louise’s Pokemon have been evolved: Honda into Revavroom, Emmet (her Buizel) into Floatzel, Rockette into Graveler, Evinrude into Yanmega, Puja into Hypno, and Maggie into Magneton. Louise and Ping decided to stay at a hotel in Celadon City until she was ready to fight Gong Shen. Anyway, the two had finished breakfast, and Ping decided to ask Lousie a question.

“Do you know what trades are?” He asked.

“Of course I do!” She replied. “It’s when two Trainers exchange Pokemon in order to either evolve them or get Pokemon unavailable in that Region.”

“Well, do you know about GTS?” He asked.

“Sorry, but Dynaxing doesn’t work on humans.” Answered Louise. “They've tried, and it’s not pretty.”

“Not that!” Replied Ping. “I’m talking about a Global Trade Station. It’s where you can meet Trainers from all over the world to trade Pokemon instead of going to your local Pokemon Center.”

“I believe there’s one in Goldenrod City,” Said Louise. “Where the Game Corner used to be. It was shut down when players got upset over Voltorb Flip.”

“Looks like we’ll be going to Goldenrod, then.” Declared Ping. “We might also buy some Stones from Celadon later today.” Louise got out Honda and rode him to Saffron City, with Ping following in pursuit.

“Why didn’t I bring Dragonite?” He asked himself.

—---------------------------------------------

An hour has passed, and Louise and Ping have arrived in Goldenrod City. Right where the Goldenrod Game Corner used to be, there was a tall building with all sorts of gadgets inside. When the two entered the building, they were greeted by a Nurse Joy lookalike.

“Welcome to the Global Trade Center!” She said. “Here, you can trade with any Trainer from all over the world. Would you like to trade with another Trainer from another Region?”

“Yes, actually.” Said Louise. “My Graveler needs to evolve into Golem, but I need someone to trade with.”

“Are you looking for any Pokemon in particular?” Asked the NJ lookalike.

“Not really.” Answered Louise. “Any species will do. As long as it’s not Seadra, Kadrabra, Haunter, or Onix.”

“Very well.” Said the NJ lookalike. “Head to the computer to the right of the building. We will call another Trainer from around the world and hook you up with him or her in a moment.” Louise and Ping walked over to the computer, sat in front of it, and waited for a Trainer to show up on screen. Soon, an Alolan girl around Louise’s age popped up on screen.

“Hi, there!” She said. “My name is Mahina. A little Spearow told me that you need to evolve your Graveler into Golem. That’s convenient since I need to evolve Slowpoke into Slowking! Do you suppose you could help me?”

“Sure!” Replied Louise, and a cylinder with a hole big enough to place a Poke Ball in popped out of the keyboard.

“Please take good care of Rockette, Mahina.” Said Louise. “She’s my only Rock-Type Pokemon I have. As well as my only Ground-Type, for that matter.”

“As long as you take good care of Slowqueen!” Replied Mahina. The two girls then placed their Poke Balls in the cylinder, and after a few minutes, a Net Ball popped out of Louise’s cylinder. She opened the Poke Ball, and Slowpoke came out holding a King’s Rock.

“This must be Slowqueen.” Said Louise, and the Dopey Pokemon started evolving. Slowqueen got taller, grew a fancy frill, and the King’s Rock turned into a sentient shell that sat on her head. Slowqueen had evolved into Slowking.

“Wow, did you see that?” Said Mahina. “Graveler evolved into Golem! Is it okay if I use her in battle for a few hours?”

“Okay.” Said Louise. “But I won’t have a Rock or Ground-Type Pokemon with me.” This gave Ping an idea.

“I have an idea.” Said the Professor. “How about we go to Mt. Mortar to catch a Carbink?”

“But it isn’t Saturday.” Said Louise.

“Don’t worry!” Assured Ping. “I have my ways. Next stop, Mt., Mortar!”

Author's Notes: Emmet (Louise's Floatzel) is named after the critically acclaimed Muppet special Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas.
The Net Ball is best used to catch Water and Bug-Type Pokemon.
Starting with the DS era of Pokemon games, players can trade with other players from all over the world thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity. There would be locations in the games called Global Trade Stations, or Global Terminals, that allowed this function.

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 5

Later that day, Louise and Ping arrived at Saffron City. Louise’s Pokemon by this point included Rockette, Oliver, Evinrude (her Yanma), Puja, Maggie, and Bella (her Bellsprout), all of which were between Levels 18-21.

“Let’s start by evolving Geodude into Graveler.”  Said Ping. “Golem is a powerhouse of a Pokemon, so you’re very lucky to have caught a Geodude. Ground beats Fire, Electric, Poison, Rock, and Steel, while Rock beats Bug, Fire and Flying.”

“But what about my other Pokemon?” Asked Louise.

“They should evolve as well.” Replied Ping. When they arrived at the Fighting Dojo, it was packed with Trainers with Flying, Psychic, and Fairy-Type Pokemon.

“What’s the occasion?” Asked Louise.

“They’re gonna give away a rare Fighting-Type Egg to whoever beats Kiyo!” Said a younger Trainer.

“Let me guess.” Said Louise. “Tyrogue.”

“Nope.” Said the Trainer.

“Mankey?” Asked Ping.

“It’s a Riolu egg.” Said another Trainer. “He got the Egg from a special Breeder who specializes in canine Pokemon like Growlithe, Snubbull, and Lillipup to make sure they have the best moves, Natures, and Abilities!”

“This is your chance, Louise!” Said Ping, handing her a brown diamond. “Use this opportunity to train Geodude.”

“What’s the diamond for?” Asked Louise.

“You’ll see.” Ping replied with a smile on his face.

“Actions speak louder than words!” Said the first Trainer. “Go, Pidgeotto!” Pidgeotto was sent out.

“I choose you!” Shouted Louise. “Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“Pidgeotto!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Steel Wing!” Pidgeotto tried smacking Rockette with his wings, but luckily, the Geodude avoided the attack.

“Rockette!” Said Louise. “Use Rock Slide!” Rockette threw boulders at Pidgeotto, and the Bird Pokemon fainted.

“How was that possible?!” Asked Trainer 1. “My Pidgeotto is Level 28! What Level is your Geodude?”

“Level 21.” Answered Louise. “Though she might end up being Level 23 after the battle. How did this happen?”

“I gave you a Rock Gem.” Said Ping. “They power up Rock-Type attacks. There is one Gem for each of the 18 known Types, and I own and study all of them.”

“Good thing I have a Pokemon that counters Rock!” Said Trainer 1, returning Pidgeotto to his Poke Ball. “Go, Azumarill!” Azumarill was sent out.

“You did a good job, Rockette!” Said Louise, returning the Rock Pokemon to her Poke Ball. “Go, Bella!” Bella was sent out.

“Azumarill!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Body Slam!” Azumarill jumped into the air and crashed into Bella, leaving the Flower Pokemon with half her HP.

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Razor Leaf!” Bella shot leaves at Azumarill, leaving the Aqua Rabbit Pokemon with half his HP.

“Azumarill!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Hydro Pump!” Azumarill tried to fire lots of water at Bella, but the attack missed and drenched another trainer.

“Sorry.” Said Ping. “We’re having a battle here.”

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Razor Leaf again!” Bella shot more sharp leaves at Azumarill, and the Aqua Rabbit Pokemon fainted.

“I knew I should’ve taught Azumarill Ice Beam.” Said Trainer 1, returning the Aqua Rabbit Pokemon to his Poke Ball. Before he could send out his next Pokemon, something was happening to Bellsprout.

“What’s happening?” Asked Louise.

“Your Bellsprout is evolving!” Said Ping. Bella’s head grew so big that its body couldn’t support it. The leaves migrated to the sides of her head, and the eyes changed, too. Bella had evolved into Weepinebll.

“Good thing my final Pokemon is a Psychic-Type!” Said Trainer 1, returning Azumarill to his Poke Ball. “Go, Mr. Mime!” Mr. Mime was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Bella!” Said Louise, returning the Weepinebell to her Poke Ball. “Go, Evinrude!” Evinrude was sent out.

“Evinrude!” Said Louise. “Use Lunge!” Evinrude lunged towards Mr. Mime and attacked with full force, leaving the Barrier Pokemon with 60% of her HP.

“Mr. Mime!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Thunder!” Mr. Mime attacked Evinrude with a wicked bolt of lightning, and the Yanma fainted.

“Oh no!” Said Louise, returning Evinrude to his Poke Ball. “Good thing Mr. Mime is a dual-Type Pokemon! Go, Maggie!” Maggie was sent out.

“Too bad Magnemite is weak against the next attack!” Said Trainer 1. “Mr. Mime, use Focus Blast!” Mr. Mime heightened her mental focus and unleashed her power, but luckily, the attack missed and broke a window in the dojo. While everyone was distracted, Ping snuck a Steel Gem onto Magnemite’s right magnet.

“Magnemite!” Said Louise. “Use Flash Cannon!” Magnemite emitted a powerful flash strong enough to make Mr. Mime faint. The flash was strong enough to catch the attention of Kiyo, who walked over to Louise and Ping.

“What’s all the commotion?” He asked.

“We just finished a battle, sir.” Replied Ping. “No need to alert the authorities.”

“We?” Asked Louise.

“I can see that you used Gems in this battle.” Said Kiyo. “Gems are strong items that power up one move. Where did you get the Steel Gem?”

“I gave one to her.” Said Ping. “I am Professor Gingko from Pignhei, and I study Pokemon moves. I also collect and use Gems, since I feel that they’re unique and underutilized.”

“Very wise.” Said Kiyo. “You have been teaching this girl well. What is your name, young madam?”

“Louise.” She answered.

“Louise,” Said Kiyo, taking out the Riolu egg. “Even though I haven’t witnessed the whole battle, I think you’re ready. You deserve this Riolu egg.” He handed Louise the Riolu egg.

“Thank you,” Said Louise. “But I have enough Pokemon, already.”

“Very well.” Said Kiyo, taking back the egg. “Take this instead. It’s a rare TM that contains the move necessary to evolve Yanma into Yanmega.” She handed Louise an unnumbered TM that contained Ancient Power.

“Thank you.” Said Louise. “But I need to evolve 15 of my Pokemon to defeat Gong Shen in Pingehi. He wants to force everyone to use only Electric, Dark, and Poison-Type Pokemon.”

“I will help you evolve all the Pokemon in your Party, if I have to!” Said Kiyo. “Everyone!” Whoever beats Louise will receive 50 Rare Candies!” All the Trainers roared, but Ping felt something fishy.

“But you probably don’t have 50 Rare Candies.” He whispered to Kiyo.

“That’s alright.” Replied Kiyo. “Besides, I have a feeling that none of these Trainers will defeat a girl with this much moxie!”

—-------------------------------

Back in Pinghei, Gong Shen ordered a Grunt to capture four powerful Legendaries to pit against Yuza and Terra to distract them: Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu. He then traveled all over the Region to find the two, and they were having a date together near Soda Lake.

“Oh, it’s you.” Said Terra. “Looks like we have to arrest you.”

“But I have a surprise.” Said Grunt. “Let’s see how you can handle these!” He sent out four Timer Balls that contained the Treasures of Ruin: Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu.

“This will distract you two while we continue our crime spree!” Said Grunt, pulling out a bottle of a purple substance. He opened up the bottle, and a gas came out that made the Legendaries go berserk.

“Looks like we’re gonna have to fight these Pokemon and return them to their habitats.” Said Yuna.

‘You got it, girlfriend.” Said Terra, and they started a Pokemon battle against the Legendaries.

Author's Notes: In Pokemon Black and White, players can find Gems that power up moves that correspond with its Type. They're a bit like Z-Moves from Sun and Moon, but more affordable.
In Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, there is a substance known as R. It is made from the same chemicals that helped create Mewtwo, and will make a Pokemon of any species go berserk Zootopia style.
Evinrude (Louise's Yanma) is named after the friendly dragonfly from The Rescuers.
After for why he didn't appear in The Rescuers Down Under, there are three possible reasons. #1. Evinriude is from Louisiana, and the Rescue Aid Society's main branch is located in New York. #2. It was way too cold when Bernard and Bianca got notified about Cody's kidnapping. #3. Dragonflies as adults only have a lifespan of 6-8 weeks.
Soda Lake is named after one of the locations in Super Mario World. Completing this level will unlock a path to the Star World, which has a secret area leading to the final boss.