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*After an unfortunate farewell to Sobble, Oliver and the others enjoyed a dairy treat, before working their way back through the Wild Area to the next City. Pheromosa City.*

Oliver: Alright, Pheromosa City. The second Gym should be around here somewhere…

Martha: Best of luck to the both of you. That first Gym was a bit tough.

Oliver: Umm, what do you mean? I’m sure you’ll do great.

Martha: After that last gym...I'm more skeptical about my own abilities as a trainer. I mean, I won...But just barely...

Oliver: Hey c’mon, don’t say that. You’re a great trainer. You managed to conquer Kalos, what’s stopping you from winning here in Galar?

Martha: Well, it's just a thought in the back of my head.
Oliver: Well, don’t listen to it. You and your team are going to do great things.

Martha: Thanks. You too. Eddie...Umm, well...He's got his methods.
Oliver: Tell me about it…Still, I know you’ll be great!

Martha: Heh, thanks...But it's a wake up call to get things in gear for me and my team.

Oliver: I’m glad to hear that. Still, I guess now Eddie’s run ahead we could spend some time together looking around the city?

Martha: Sure. I don't mind a little stroll.
Oliver: Great! Let’s go!

Martha: Right behind you Oliver!
*Oliver and Martha then took their stroll through Pheromosa City, taking in the sights and smells of the city. There were stalls with flowers, perfumes, and other fragrances, and food stores. Along with people and Pokémon. Although, there seemed to be a fair few dark and poison types around.*

Martha: Heh, some of these Pokémon mean business. I've definitely had some run-ins with some of these guys.

Oliver: Oh yeah...? Care to share?

Martha: I've dealt with a Nidoqueen who was dominating a Gym I was competing in. And I got stomped...In more times I can count.

Oliver: A Nidoqueen huh? Yeah, the nido’s are real powerhouses. That's why I had a Nidoqueen in my team when I visited Kalos myself. I remember in Kanto I couldn't get past the poison Gym for the life of me...

Martha: Me too! Eventually, I got lucky with the way I was managing my team to take it down.

Oliver: Same here with the Poison Gym...It makes me wonder what the Gym here is like.

Martha: Well never know until we head on inside. That's for sure.

Oliver: Yeah, but for now, I think it’d be good to just take in the sights, maybe pick up a few things here and there, and just chill before we go right back at the Gym Challenge.

Martha: I'm alright with that. A shame Eddie wasn't interested in joining us, but I'll leave him be.

Oliver: He’s too busy leveling up his “new friend”, so I figured you could use a break from his whole thing he’s got going on.

Martha: I can use one. And so can you.
Oliver: It’s that easy to tell, huh?

Martha: Pretty much...But hey, I'm not complaining for some time to unwind and relax. And neither is GG.

Oliver: Heh, fair enough.
*As the two explored the town, they spotted an artist, with a canvas. Along with a Smeargle using its painted tail to paint the city walls.*

Martha: Oh wow, that's a cute little painting you're working on there.

???: Thank you there, kind lady! I figured it would be something nice for the people to see in their daily lives of walking through town.

Oliver: Well, it’s lookin’ nice there mate.

Martha: Yeah. I'm also one who's done some art in my spare time.

Oliver: Heh, seems like we’ve all dabbled in art together at some point or another.

Martha: Oh, you never mentioned to me that you've done some art. Can I see it?

Oliver: Oh, I don't have any of it on me, but if I get a book or something, I can draw up something.

Martha: Ah, alright. And as for your Smeargle, they really got their eye in their work. I love the detail he's got on this painting.

Smeargle: Smea! Gle!

???: Heh, well, I'm glad I could show off some of me and my Smeargle's talent.

Martha: And let's not forget about you and your art kind stranger.

???: Much obliged there. Have a good day you two!
*After leaving the artisan and his Pokémon to work, Oliver and Martha continue their stroll through town. ...That was however until a pair of thuggish teens stood in front of them.*

Rough looking teen: Sweet Arceus, look at her outfit.

Rough looking teen 2: That's mad. I wouldn't be seen dead wearing that, fam.

Oliver: What's up with you two? ...*Thinking: Hold on...these look similar to the people Eddie took care of before he traded Sobble...*

Martha: So I like Goodras. That's not that big of a deal. I'm not saying negative stuff about what you two are wearing.

Rough looking teen 1: Pfft, you hear how bait she sounds bruv?

Rough looking teen 2: Yeah, we can't have that. That's a violation and a half there.
*Oliver notices that they were surrounded by more of the thugs.*

Oliver: If there's one thing I hate more than roadmen, it's the ones who think acting hard's gonna help them...Martha, it looks like we're gonna have to fight.

Martha: I was afraid of that...But if it means teaching these brutes a lesson, I'm by your side.

Oliver: Sounds good...

Rough looking teen 1: Heh, this bird thinks she's gonna win! That's jokes!

Rough looking teen 3: Innit bruv? Let's par these wastemen off!

Oliver: Ugh, it sucks that people here talk like that. Alright, let's do this. It'll be practice enough for ya.

Martha: Yup...Let’s go!
*And just like that, Oliver and Martha were roped into another battle. It seemed like the rough teens were all wearing puffer jackets with the letters T and S overlapping each other on some kind of logo on them as they got ready to battle, sending out Pokémon like Koffing, and Stunfisk and Perrserker.*
Koffing: Kooooooff!

Stunfisk: Stuuuunfisk!

Perrserker: Purr!

Martha: Yup, these Pokémon are familiar to me. Go Wooloo!

Oliver: Raboot! Let's go!
*Oliver and Martha throw the Pokéballs with their Pokémon in to start the battle.*

Rough looking teen 1: Koffing! Hit that rabbit ting with the Sludge yeah?

Rough looking teen 2: Stunfisk! Go for that Super soak bruv!

Rough looking teen 3: Yo Perr! Hit that sheep wih' dat Metal Claw!
*The three Pokémon charge at Oliver and Martha's. Wooloo takes moderate damage from Metal Claw.*

Oliver: Raboot! Dodge them and go for Perrserker with Flame Charge!
*Raboot's feet set alight and starts sprinting at Perrserker and dodging between Water gun and Sludge, before landing a hard hit on the Perrserker, sending it tumbling backwards.*

Martha: Woolo! Go for the Perrserker with a headbutt! Then shift focus on the Koffing!
*Wooloo charges at Perrserker. Although Headbutt didn’t do a lot of damage, it did cause the cat to flinch, as it’s next attack went to Koffing.*

Oliver: Raboot! Flame Charge again!

Raboot: BOOT!
*With another fiery kick, Raboot KO’s Perrserker, leaving Koffing and Stunfisk left.*

Martha: Guard split Wooloo, on that Koffing! Now!

Wooloo: Woooool!
*Wooloo used Guard Split on the Koffing, as Oliver sent Raboot after Stunfisk.*

Martha: Now, hit that Koffing with a Take down Wooloo!
*Wooloo baa’s as it crashes into Koffing, knocking it into Stunfisk, while taking a bit of recoil damage. Stunfisk was all that was left.

Martha: Now to finish up with the fish...Wooloo, Double kick! Let’s show these thugs who's boss!

Oliver: Raboot! Flame Charge one more time!
*BOOM! With a hard and fiery crash from Wooloo and Raboot, the thugs were beaten.*

Rough looking teen 3: Oi nah! Forget this man! Dem Pokemon are on some joke ting!

Rough looking teen 2: Innit?! We just got owned! ?!
*Suddenly, Wooloo starts glowing in a blue light. Moments pass and Wooloo evolves into Dubwool.*

Martha: Whoa! Heh, I guess this fight proved fruitful!
Dubwool: WOOL!

Rough looking teen 1: Oi, forget this man! This was bare long and we didn't even get any EXP and dat!
*The rough teens ran away, and in their panic, they dropped some prize money.*

Oliver: Hmph. You okay, Martha?

Martha: I'm good...Man, the nerve of some trainers...Right? At least they were "nice enough" to help me and, now my Dubwool, to evolve.

Oliver: Sure...well, anyway, we should keep moving. We've caused enough of a scene in town thanks to that.

Martha: Well, they started it...*Huff* but...I swear, their faces looked familiar to me.

Oliver: But you’ve…never been here before.

Martha: No, not from here...Like, from the previous gym...I could have sworn I've seen their faces...I dunno, maybe it's me.

Oliver: It was most likely the jackets. Anyway, how’s a bite to eat sound?

Martha: Of course! I'm always in for food.

Oliver: Great! I’m sure we can find a great place for grub around here.

Martha: I'm right behind you Oliver. Lead the way!
*It took a bit of looking, but Oliver soon found a good place for him and Martha to eat.*

Oliver: Heh, I gotta say, even though the circumstances sucked at the time, that battle worked up an appetite. For us and our Pokémon.

Martha: More for GG and Dubwool here. But I'm also up for some grub.

Oliver: This is for you to enjoy too. You’ve earned it just as much.

Martha: I know that. But they deserve some nice food too.

Oliver: Of course they do!

Martha: Another reason is that GG often takes a lot of food to satisfy...Pretty much taking it from me...
*Martha blushes as she bashfully eats with Oliver.*

Oliver: Hey, it’s all good. Me and Ed have to put a lot of food away too.

Martha: Well, now I know I'm not alone when it comes to being a foodie.

Oliver: Heh, yeah.
*Soon, the two enjoyed a meal together with their Pokémon before getting back to exploring the town.*

Martha: So, I'm curious. When did you start as a trainer?

Oliver: I started at the age of 11. Going from region to region, seeing what they had to offer. But it seems strange leaving my home region up until now to do...

Martha: Well, you seem to be doing well for yourself.

Oliver: Thanks. And so are you. Care to share about yourself? Where have you been on your travels?

Martha: My story is more or less like yours. Except when I first lost my Gym battle in the Hisui region, it was the spark of a great "quest". Because from there, that's where I got connected with one Pokemon in particular...I'll give you a guess on which one that is.

Oliver: Uhh...Hisui?

Martha: It was around there, I lost at the gym against someone who's got a Goodra by their side.

Oliver: That's a region I've never heard of before...

Martha: Hmm, maybe I can take you there sometime. Who knows, you might find yourself a Goodra of your own.

Oliver: Heh, I already got one...but I guess taking a look at the Pokémon from there could be cool.

Martha: Ah, well just to let you know, some of the Pokémon aren't as friendly as GG here.

Oliver: Some of them usually aren't.
*BOOOOM! Getting the two's attention, a giant explosion of pink gas came from where the Gym would have been.*

Oliver: What the heck was that?!

Martha: I'm not sure...But I have a funny feeling that it involves our pal Eddie.

Oliver: We better check it out!

Martha: I'm with you, c'mon!
*The two quickly return their Pokémon to their Pokéballs and rush over to the gym where the explosion occurred. Several people and Pokémon were wandering out of the building through the pink haze, dazed. One of which was a violet haired woman in a lab coat, with two glasses in both hands.*

???: Whoops...! It looks like there was something missing from the compound...! heh heh heh!

Martha: W-What happened here?! What caused that huge pink explosion?!

???: *cough! cough!* Heh heh...There's no need to panic...! It was just a little experiment of mine that went awry. Sorry about that...!

Martha: Well...I-if you say so...But, what experiment were you doing exactly?

???: Oh, it was just a test to see if poison from Pokémon could be used in perfumes and fragrances. And it seems so, although the results here aren't exactly favorable...heh heh...

Oliver: You don't say.
Martha: P-Poison...? For some perfume?

???: Yes! There are chemicals that can be used to reverse the effects of the poison, and make them suitable for perfumes and other beauty products!

Martha: I dunno if I fully trust that...But, good work...Umm...W-who are you?

???: Penelope! One of Pheromosa City's Chief scientists! ...And Gym Leader!

Penelope: Also, what's not to trust? Our City's name comes from it's brands of beauty products around here!

Martha: No no, I'm talking about using poison as perfume. But...I guess there's a workaround for some things.

Penelope: Indeed! Especially in the name of science! ...Anyway, judging by those Dynamax bands on your wrists, you're taking part in the Gym Challenge?

Martha: huh? Oh, yeah. Me and Oliver are starting that same challenge.

Penelope: I see! Well, would you like for us to get started with the trial before you can face me?

Martha: Oh, umm...Sure...I guess. You ready Oliver?

Oliver: Yeah, I'm ready.
Penelope: Excellent! Follow me!

Martha: I wonder if Eddie is around here...Probably...
Oliver: Probably. Don’t worry about him. He knows what he’s doing.

Martha: If you say so...
*Once Oliver and Martha make it inside, they are taken into a laboratory-like labyrinth below the gym.*

Martha: Hmm...Interesting place you have here.

Penelope: Indeed! And now, for the trial! You must collect three ingredients! There are twelve in total, and six are required to make the compound I was trying to make! Good luck!

Martha: Ingredients...? Umm...Okay, well that's new.

Oliver: A fetch quest before the main event? Nah. Just another day in the office.

Martha: I'm talking about these things being in a lab underneath the gym...But hey, it's still something we gotta do.

Oliver: Yeah...alright. Let's split up and cover some ground. You ready?

Martha: I'm ready. Definitely ready. You be careful now Oliver.

Oliver: You too!
*The two split off across the maze as Penelope was preparing her equipment for testing the experiments once they brought the ingredients back. In the maze, Oliver and Martha were looking for ingredients like medicinal and revival herbs, along with different types of berries.*

Martha: Hmm...Ah-ha! Here's some herbs! Add that to the list.
*Martha knew she had picked up the right ingredient as a horde of Salandit appeared from the dark corner of the maze, hissing as they crawled towards Martha with hostility.*

Martha: Whoa! Alright. Let's go Yamper!
*Pulling out a Pokeball, Martha then releases her Yamper to stand and fight.*

Yamper: Yap yap!
*Yamper growls as the poisonous lizards zone in on the two. With an abrupt hiss, some of them jump up and fling either flame or poisonous gunk at the two.*

Martha: Gah! Alright, go for a Roar buddy!
*Yamper roars at the incoming Salandit. However, due to it being a horde battle, the effect wasn't the same. Rather than forcing the opponent to fall back, some of the Salandit got flung back instead, leaving them open for Yamper to attack.*

Martha: Wow! Now that was a powerful roar.

Yamper: Yamp! Yap!
*One of the Salandit hisses and goes for Ember, damaging Yamper, and another goes for poison sting, damaging the little corgi further.*

Yamper: Yamp…

Martha: Oh no! Umm...Okay, Yamper! Use Charge!
*As Yamper stands, charging electrical energy, it gets hit by more fire and poison attacks. It was still standing, but not by much. The next attack from it had to count.*

Martha: Spark! Use Spark Yamper!
*Yamper howls as it erupts in sparking electricity, before throwing itself into the horde of Salandit, tasing and defeating them all with ease, as they flee away into the maze.*

Martha: Nice work there pup!
Yamper: Yap Yap!

Martha: I promise you, you are in great hands.

Yamper: Yamp!
*Yamper jumps up and licks Martha on the face as they advance through the maze. Meanwhile, Oliver picked up his first ingredient and was on his way to the second.*

Oliver: Alright Raboot, let's move!

Raboot: Boot!
*The two race through the twists and turns in the maze until they come across the second ingredient, a jar of sweet honey.*

Oliver: Really…? Just what’s with having all these ingredients in a maze for fun…?
Raboot: Aboot…

Oliver: Yeah, try telling them that, buddy.
*As Oliver picks up the jar, some Gloom block him and Raboot in.*

Oliver: Oh phew…It’s something we can handle. Robot, use Ember!
*Raboot shoots at the pair of Gloom and kicks a small flame at the Gloom for big damage. To make things worse for the plant Pokémon, it set alight as the small fire rabbit managed to prock a burn.*

Oliver: Nice goin’, Raboot!
*The two Gloom retaliate by going for Giga Drain. Despite not being very effective, Raboot still took a bit of damage, but it was still standing strong.*

Raboot: Rab…Boot…

Oliver: It’s alright Raboot. We got this. Let;s hurry up and beat these herbs already.
*Later, the two meet back with the current ingredients they have. But they're both missing one last ingredient.*

Martha: Hey Ol'! Me and Yamper got one of those needed ingredients.

Oliver: Yeah, me and Raboot got ours too, but we're missing one ingredient still.

Martha: We got the herbs, a jar of honey for some reason…and now all that's left...Is...

Oliver: Some Pecha Berries.
Martha: Alright...You wanna find them together?

Oliver: Sure. We both need the same thing so why not.

Martha: Okay...Let's find that last ingredient...
Oliver: Yeah, together.

Martha: Want me to lead the way? Or do you wish to show me how strong of a trainer you are?

Oliver: Sure! Let’s do it!
*Martha takes the lead as she wanders through the dark maze with Oliver behind her. Oliver and Raboot follow Martha to the last part of the maze where the ingredients were.*

Martha: Hmm...I think we've found them...But, be prepared for anything Oliver.

Oliver: Got it. ?!
*Oliver steps in front of Martha as a silky thread gets spun on the Pecha berries. Just then, a horde of Ariados, Spider-like Pokémon swarmed the berries.*

Martha: GAAAH!! Not those things again!
Oliver: H-Huh? Whoa, you alright? What's got you so spooked?

Martha: I have a deep fear of spiders! And those guys look like them too...

Oliver: I see...Well then, you won't mind me dealing with them then?
Martha: B-Be my guest...I'm sorry, I just had a bad experience with those things...

Oliver: It's no trouble. Alright, Raboot! Tag in!

Raboot! Boot!
*Raboot hops in front of Oliver and gets ready to battle against the purple arachnids.*

Martha: Umm...I'll just...Hang back here and stay far away from those things...Yamper, Go!
*Martha tosses her Pokéball to help assist Oliver fight, but after doing so, she runs off to monitor the fight.*

Yamper: Yap! Yap!
Oliver: Heh, thanks for the assist there, Martha.

Ariados: Hiss!
*The purple spiders zip along the walls of the maze and get ready to attack Yamper and Raboot, whether it be with their fangs or poisonous attacks.*

Oliver: Raboot! Use Quick Attack!
*Raboot uses it's powerful feet to bound between the walls of the maze, bashing the series of Ariados off course, damaging them.*

Oliver: Martha! Your turn!

Martha: *distant* Like before buddy! Go for the Roar!
*Yamper roars, helping out Oliver and Raboot as it sends the Ariados' flying backwards.*

Martha: *distant* Yeah! Nice one!

Oliver: Raboot! Flame charge!
*Raboot blinks between the Ariados, kicking them with fiery feet with some speed behind them.*

Martha: *distant* Spark Yamper! Do it now!
*Yamper engulfs itself in sparks of electricity before crashing into the Ariados', sending some flying, and stunning some with paralysis.*

Martha: *distant* Your move now Oliver!

Oliver: Right! Raboot! Speed things up! Flame Charge!
*With another flaming speed attack, Raboot defeats a few of the Ariados, while a few remain.*

Martha: *distant* Crunch Yamper! Crunch! We need to win this now!
*Yamper growls as it bounds towards the spider-like Pokémon before sinking it's teeth into the creature, causing it to let out a hostile hiss, as Raboot aided against the other ones using Quick Attack and Ember.*

Oliver: It's alright Martha! We got this...
*With a few more fire based attacks, the horde of Ariados was defeated, and Oliver picked up a few of the Pecha Berries to return back to Penelope with.*

Martha: Here's your ingredients...By the way, let me know if there are spider-based Pokémon in your quest in future.

Penelope: Oh? Are spiders a phobia of yours? I could mix a remedy to fix that for you if you wish.

Martha: Yes, it is a phobia of mine...And...I guess...Yeah, sure, I'd like to get that fixed...

Oliver: Hold on. You're not exploding all over Pheromosa City. We'll find another way.

Martha: Heh, thanks Oliver...I just, I'm not too fond of things with eight legs.

Oliver: I can tell...

Penelope: Well, are you fond of participating in an experiment, where the reaction could result in a second Gym badge?

Martha: Does it involve creepy crawlies?

Penelope: Well…to some degree, yes. But I assure you, not spider-like ones.
Martha: Well...At least it's not like arachnids...Alright Penelope, what's our next task?

Penelope: Why, face me in a gym battle!
Martha: Oh, alright then. Now that's something I won't complain about.

Penelope: Very good! Now, who would like to go first?

Martha: Hmm...Do you wanna go first Oliver?

Oliver: Sure, I'll do what I can.

Penelope: Splendid! Let's get things started!
*Soon enough, the three found themselves at Pheromosa City's stadium where Oliver and Penelope were getting ready to face each other. As Martha was watching from the rafters, Eddie returns and sits next to her.*

Eddie: 'Ey up.
Martha: Heh, where have you been? You've missed out on a bit of a labyrinth crawl.

Eddie: You what? You mean the maze? Nah nah, I've done it. I even got me second Gym badge too! And found out where we got to go for the third. But some of them Scally trainers are blocking the way.

Martha: By any chance, were these trainers have mainly poison or dark Pokémon? Wearing all leather jackets and such?

Eddie: Nah, they're Puffer Jackets. And yeah, they're the same ones I dealt with near the bug Gym.

Martha: Me and Oliver both ran into them as well while we were exploring the city...I swear, I thought I can recall their faces...

Eddie: They're more annoying than anything. Anyway, I'm gonna sit for a bit. I'm cream crackered...
*Back on the battlefield, Oliver was getting ready to face Penelope.*

Penelope: Heh, I, I'm gonna say this now, you won't be able to win, but don't worry. Your attempt will be valuable, all for the name of science.

Oliver: Heh, keep telling yourself that...
*After passing the labyrinth trial Penelope had set up as part of her gym test, Oliver was now facing her and her team of Pokémon.*

Penelope: Heh, I, I'm gonna say this now, you won't be able to win, but don't worry. Your attempt will be valuable, all for the name of science.

Oliver: Heh, keep telling yourself that...

Penelope: Very well...We'll make you're confidence the next experiment of mine! Koffing! Let's go!
*With the throw of a Pokéball, Penelope sends out a Koffing, a strange floating creature with a dopey smile, and green gas emitting from it's body.*

Oliver: Okay...This seems simple enough...Yamper, Go!
*Oliver throws out a Pokéball and sends out Yamper. It yaps with enthusiasm as the battle got underway.*

Martha: You got this Oliver! You and Yamper!

Penelope: Go for Rollout again!
*Whielilede does just that, but Oliver sees it coming and commands Raboot to dodge. Once it does, it follows up with another Flame Charge, dealing big damage and boosting its own speed.*

Penelope: Koffing! Use Sludge!
*Koffing floats toward Yamper with speed and goes to douse it in a purple, poisonous gunk.*

Oliver: Dodge it and use Roar!
*Yamper jumps up above Koffing and lets out the meanest barks and snarls it could muster, sending Koffing back over to Penelope's side as another Pokémon from her team was dragged out in it's place. It was a Whirlipede, a round purple centipede Pokémon.*

Whirlipede: Whirl. Pede.

Oliver: Alright, Yamper, return!
*Oliver then switches out Yamper and sends in Raboot.*

Eddie: Ah...I see what he was going for.
Martha: Yeah...yeah! I see it too!

Penelope: Use Rollout!
*Whirlipede starts rolling towards Raboot like a wheel, kicking up dirt as it barrelled towards the small fire rabbit.*

Oliver: Raboot! Dodge it and use Flame Charge!
*Raboot uses it's feet to dart out of the way before taking a running start at the spinning bug Pokémon before summoning flames all around it before kicking the Pokémon on it's side, dealing big damage at the same time.*

Martha: Whoa-ho! That was perfect!
Penelope: Whirlipede!

Martha: Wow...that Raboot sure is holding it's out out there. Isn't it Eddie?

Eddie: Yeah. So will my Mudkip and Sizzlipede.

Martha: My team will be the same. But hey, you never know.
*THUD! Raboot continued outspeed Whirlipede and managed to KO it. Penelope switches it back out for Koffing.*

Oliver: Nice one! Keep it up Raboot.
Martha: Man...they're good. And that Koffing is already damaged.

Eddie: No. Roar isn’t a move that does damage. All it does is switch the opponent’s Pokémon.

Martha: Ah. Well, Oliver definitely still has some tricks up his sleeve.

Oliver: Raboot! Use Ember!

Penelope: Assurance!
*Koffing glows pink before ramming into Raboot, sending it bouncing back toward Oliver.*

Oliver: What the?!

Penelope: Assurance. Goes first if the opponent’s attack is guaranteed to go first.

Martha: Oh...darn. That messes me up too sometimes...

Oliver: Alright then…
Penelope: Use Sludge again!

Oliver: Use Quick Attack!
*Raboot sprints at Koffing with a white energy streaking from it, dodging the puddle of purple gunk and kicks Koffing with force.*

Martha: C'mon Oliver...you can do this...I know you can...

Penelope: Koffing, Tackle!
Oliver: Raboot, Flame Charge!

Koffing: Kooooooff…

Raboot: Raaaaaab…BOOT!
*The two Pokémon clash in the center of the arena, kicking up a pretty big smoke cloud for two small Pokémon. But as it cleared, Koffing slowly floated downwards and was KO’ed by its injuries.*

Martha: Woo! Nice work there Oliver!

Penelope: Very good! However, I still got one more Pokémon up my sleeve. Seviper, let’s go!
*One last Pokémon came from Penelope, a purple snake with a red tipped blade tail. It lets out a hiss as she reveals her Dynamax band.*

Penelope: And now, for the testing phase of this experiment!
*Like with Freya’s Butterfree, Penelope returns Seviper and a rose energy shrouds the Pokéball and it grows in size as she hurls it in the air with two hands. Seviper grows to the size of the stadium and let’s out a long, deep hiss.*

Martha: ...Oh...heh, guess I spoke too soon. Well, you still got this Oliver!

Oliver: Heh...I knew this was a thing in our region, but not with EVERY battle...Still, I'm game.
*Oliver returns Raboot and uses his Dynamax band before releasing Raboot again in it's Dynamax form.*

Martha: Go Raboot! Heh...these fights always get me all excited.

Penelope: Audience cheer levels optimal. Very well, let us continue. Seviper! Poison Tail!
*Despite it not being how the move SHOULD look, Seviper flooded the ground level of the stadium with purple gunk, and it exploded in geysers around the stadium's battle ground to deal damage to Raboot in the form of Max Ooze. But despite the attack looking fatal, Raboot stood tall, ready to continue.*

Oliver: Great job Raboot! Use Flame Charge!
*Raboot douses itself in flames before charging at Seviper and kicking it in the face. The kick acted as the catalyst to cause an explosion which erupted from the stadium in the form of Max Flare. But as the flames and smoke passed, the giant snake and rabbit were still standing.*

Martha: ...Whoa...both are pretty strong.
*The two giant Pokémon continued to dish out strong Dynamax attacks two more times each, the four attacks rattling the stadium before they shrunk back down to regular size.*

Martha: Man...every time that happens, I swear they could level mountains.

Eddie: Probably...

Penelope: Oh well...Back down to size eh? Seviper, use Bite!
*Seviper hisses before slithering towards Raboot, it's mouth open ready to bite down.*

Oliver: Dodge it and use Flame Charge!
*Raboot barely manages to avoid the attack and hits Seviper with the attack, only for Seviper to twist it's body around and bites Raboot before slithering back to Penelope.*

Martha: Oh man...this fight it pretty close...
Penelope: Go for Poison Tail!

Oliver: Quick attack!
*The two Pokémon continue to clash in the middle of the arena. The crowd going nuts as the battle was reaching its end.*

Martha: Geez...Oliver and Penelope aren't intent on losing here.

Penelope: Bite again!

Oliver: Use Ember!
*As Seviper went to chomp down on Raboot, it blasted Seviper with a fire attack, knocking it out, ending the battle. The crowd roars loudly as Oliver and his Raboot stood proudly.*

Martha: Woo hoo! You did it Oliver!

Oliver: Phew, we did it Raboot! Don’t worry. We’ll get ya fixed up at the Pokémon Center yeah?

Raboot: Rab! Boot!
*As Oliver returned Raboot to its ball, Penelope approached him to award him the second Gym badge.*

Penelope: I must say, even though this experiment didn’t come out in my favour, I’m glad to report your Pokémon are getting much stronger. And now, I award you the Corrosion badge. Don’t worry, it’s not actually corrosive hehe…I double checked.
*As Oliver was awarded his next badge, he leaves and joins Eddie and Martha in the rafters.*

Martha: Wow...you two make quite the team. Nice fighting out there.
Oliver: Thanks Martha. Are you ready for your turn?

Martha: I'll do my best out there!

Oliver: Alright then. Good luck!

Martha: Thanks...*Deep breath* Okay...let's do this...
*Martha then heads down from the rafters she was sitting at and steps onto the gym arena. Oliver and Eddie were now watching as Martha was getting ready to battle Penelope. After completing the trial before the battle with Penelope, the Poison Type Gym Leader, Oliver takes the first battle and wins with not many issues. After his win, Martha congratulates him before then heading down from the rafters she was sitting at and steps onto the gym arena. Oliver and Eddie were now watching as Martha was getting ready to battle Penelope.*

Penelope: Ah, another test subject. Shall we begin?

Martha: I'm ready for ya. Let's do this!
*With Pokéball in hand, Martha was ready to battle it out against Penelope, who sends out her first Pokémon Koffing and awaits Martha’s response.*

Martha: Alright Thwackey, you're up!
*Martha tosses out her Pokémon, Thwackey, into the fight.*

Thwackey: Thwaaack!!
Martha: Ready bud?

Eddie: Does she have a plan? She does know Grass is weak to poison right?

Martha: Alright, this might be tough in the beginning Thwackey, but I promise this is just the start. Now, give them a Screech!
*Thwackey lets out it’s cry, lowering Koffing’s defense.*

Penelope: Alright, use Sludge!
*Koffing fires a large blob of purple funk towards Thwackey.*

Martha: Dodge!
*Thwackey does so, narrowly avoiding the attack.*

Martha: Okay, now go for the Razor Leaf!
*A swarm of jagged sharp leaves damaged Koffing, although it wasn’t by much due to the type advantage against Thwackey.*

Martha: Alright...now to go for a swap...Thanks Thwackey...
*Martha returns Thwackey to the Pokéball. Up next to bring out Dubwool, to help finish the fight.*

Dubwool: WOOL!

Martha: While the defense is still down, you go in with the headbutt! GO!
*Dubwool barrels towards Koffing and nails it with a strong headbutt, sending it back to Penelope in a daze.*

Martha: Perfect! Now, Guard Split!
*As Dubwool uses the move, it lowers its defenses to match Koffing’s.*

Oliver: What’s she doing? Guard Split’s a move that matches the defense and special defense of the opponent.

Eddie: Maybe it’s a bit of trolling? I dunno.

Oliver: Still, I know Martha’s got this.
*Martha chuckles for a moment as she continues the fight. Dubwool dodges another Sludge attack from Koffing.*

Martha: Heh heh, okay...now let's get serious...Double Kick Dubwool!
*Dubwool charges at Koffing and bucks the floating poison Pokémon twice, landing it on the ropes.*

Martha: Go for the Defense Curl!
*Dubwool raises its defense as Koffing lands a clear orb of energy at Dubwool in the form of Clear Smog, dealing some damage to the mountain goat Pokémon.*

Martha: Okay...take a moment to rest buddy. And then, go for another Headbutt!
*Dubwool shakes off the poison attack and crashes into Koffing with a mighty thud, knocking it out with a Critical hit.*

Martha: Nice hit! But judging from Oliver's fight, we're not done yet.

Penelope: Nope!
*Penelope returns Koffing to its Pokéball and next sends in Whirlipede.*

Martha: Hmm...okay. Start off with a Defense Curl!
*Dubwool raises its defense again, but takes damage from Whirlipede's Bug Bite attack.*

Martha: Alright, that's fine. Headbutt! Go ahead and do it!
*Dubwool crashes into Whirlipede head on, and was struggling against the centipede Pokémon as it was clashing against Dubwool by using Rollout. As the two backed off from each other, they traded damage from one another.*

Martha: Oh man...okay then. Dubwool, use Copycat!
*Dubwool briefly glows in an orange light. Confusing Oliver and Eddie, they watch closely, as Martha had got Dubwool to learn Rollout for itself. It was a rocky start, but Dubwool manages to learn Rollout. Fortunately, it does more than Martha anticipated.*

Oliver: C’mon Martha! You got this!

Martha: Okay, go for another Double kick. Then come back and rest for a moment.
*Dubwool attacks Whirlipede and it looked like it was about to go down. However, it scored a hit with Poison tail and as a result, poisoned Dubwool.*

Martha: Oh no, Dubwool!
*Dubwool was okay. For now it needed to focus on KOing Whirlipede before losing too much energy.*

Martha: Okay...focus...Dubwool, Go for the Rollout again!
*Dubwool goes to attack, and Whirlipede uses its movements to dodge, but Dubwool didn’t let the poison get in the way and took down Whirlipede with its next attack.*

Martha: Perfect! Nice work there Dubwool!

Penelope: Hmm…not half bad…but, your Dubwool’s looking worse for wear…do you think it can carry on?

Martha: Hmm...no, I'll leave him to rest for a bit...
*As Martha switches Dubwool out, Penelope sends out Seviper as her last Pokémon.*

Martha: Okay, this is pretty tough...Go Yamper!
*Martha's Yamper yaps at the poison snake Pokémon. Like in Oliver's battle, Martha was faced with a Dynamaxed Seviper.*

Martha: Okay, it's only fair that my Yamper does the same.
*One return later, and Martha had a stadium sized electric corgi by her side, indicated by the giant yap it let out.*

Martha: Heh, okay...Ready Yamper?
Dynamaxed Yamper: YAAAAAAAAP!

Martha: Go for a Charge Yamper!
*Yamper howls as it fizzles and sparks with electricity. The clouds above the stadium went dark as Seviper got obliterated by a giant thunder strike that consumed the stadium. Once the attack subsided, the ground in the stadium glowed a yellow colour with sparks coming from it.*

Martha: Heh, and now...Hit them with a Bite!
*After taking a Dynamaxed poison attack from Seviper, Yamper uses Crunch, and in return, a pair of energy beams, emitting dark energy flowed over to Seviper, and erupt in an explosion of darkness, in the form of Max Darkness.*

Martha: Okay, now to finish this...Yamper! Use Bite!
*Yamper took another Max Ooze attack from Seviper, but Yamper fired another devastating Max Darkness attack, and with a bright rose light, and a defeated hiss, the Seviper went down.*

Martha: Woohoo! Amazingly done team!
Penelope: Indeed! I must say, excellent work!

Martha: Heh, thanks Penelope. You also did pretty good too.

Penelope: Mmhmm! And so did your blonde friend in the white hoodie! He even had an evolution during his battle.

Martha: Really? That's great news!
Penelope: And now, I shall award you too, the Corrosion Badge.

Martha: Wow...thanks Penelope. You know...you remind me of a friend I have back over in my home region.

Penelope: Really now? I would love to meet her some day.

Martha: I'm sure you and Pamela would be perfect together. Heh, thanks again for the badge.

Penelope: No problem! Good luck with the rest of the Gym Challenge!
*Martha calls back her Yamper and heads back over to the others. Her all excited for the next badge she's won.*

Oliver: Heh, see? Told you that you could do it.

Martha: Heh, you had doubt in me?

Oliver: 'Course not.

Martha: Sometimes, you gotta confuse the enemy. Never let them know your next move.

Oliver: I know that one. ...Uhh...quick question. How are you in the cold?

Martha: Eh...not something I can deal with for a long time, but I'm okay with it...why?

Eddie: Apparently the next Gym's Ice type, so Oli' here wanted to make sure his girl was all wrapped up.

Oliver: Ed, shut up.

Martha: *chuckle* I'm fine. Really. I have a nice puffer jacket to help...As well as a certain Goodra that things hugs are a way to stay warm.

Oliver: W-What about that skirt...? Are you gonna be good in just that?

Martha: Oliver, please. I have more clothes in my backpack.

Oliver: Okay, okay. Just asking.

Martha: Hee hee hee...oh Oliver, if you like me, why don't ya just say so?
*Teasing Oliver, Martha walks off after giving him a wink and a smirk.*

Oliver: *blushes* ! U-Umm...

Eddie: Heh, I'll leave you two alone. See you at Frostborne City.
*Eddie takes off by himself to the next city, allowing the two to walk and talk together.*

Martha: *chuckle* What? You decided NOW to express how you feel? Or are you still afraid of what Eddie has to say? Hmm, Mr. Tough guy?

Oliver: Hey, you be around someone who's judgmental and holds onto things to say in front of friends.

Martha: What's wrong about him telling his friends that you have a crush on me? There's nothing wrong with that.

Oliver: Eh...He's...smug. When it comes to that kinda thing.

Martha: I know he is. I can tell...So, just embrace it. If you give him something to feed off of, like...Hiding your feelings towards me, then of course he's gonna jump on that. If you're open, then he'll think you're cool with telling the world about your crush.

Oliver: U-Umm...Yeah...right.

Martha: And besides...
*Martha leans in closer to Oliver to whisper in his ear.*

Martha: *whisper* I think it's adorable when you try to hide it...even if it's a terrible job.
*Catching him off guard, Martha gives Oliver a peck on the cheek. Oliver's face went bright red as he and Martha continued to walk together.*

Martha: Ah ha ha, hee hee hee, you always seem to crack me up.

Oliver: *blushes* Eheh...I try...

Martha: So...Next time Eddie bugs you, show him otherwise...alright?

Oliver: Y-Yes ma'am...hehe...

Martha: That's what I like to hear...and, to better make you feel comfortable...I have a little crush on you too...

Oliver: Y-You do...?

Martha: Yeah...Otherwise, why would I have kissed your cheek?

Oliver: F-Fair point.
Martha: *blushes* So don't act like a goober and be all shy about it.

Oliver: G-Goober…heh. Alright.
Martha: Hee hee, say. Maybe we can grab a bite to eat.

Oliver: A-Alright. Sure!

Martha: Okay, great. I think my team of Pokémon needs some energy to recharge after that fight.

Oliver: Alright then. We’ll get something for our Pokémon too.
*Martha and Oliver then finish their walk by stopping by a local cafe. Martha was feeding her Pokémon team some snacks to get their energy back. Oliver was doing the same with his Pokémon. During their chat, they used their Rotom-Phones to exchange details.*

Oliver: "Goodragirl490" huh? Yup. Definitely see the resemblance there. You really cleaned house at the Kalos Gyms, huh?

Martha: Heh, guilty...me and my Champion Goodra are responsible for that.

Oliver: Heh, I saw. Real good work.

Martha: Hey, Goodra's are strong when they need to be. And GG is proof enough.

Oliver: I know that one well.

Martha: And you've made a name for yourself too. "Goodra676". I see you and I share a favourite type of Pokémon.

Oliver: Heh, yeah. Eddie’s name is “DropDeadEd” if you wanna add him too.

Martha: I'll have to do that soon. *Nom* so, have you gotten any championships under your belt?

Oliver: Just one. From the Avalon region where me and Eddie went for a while. Uhh…a LOT happened there lemme tell ya.

Martha: Hmm...Care to tell me more about them?

Oliver: Sure. We encountered a LOT of legendary Pokémon, I got bit by a Charizard, and we saved the world a few times.

Martha: Wow...Sounds to me you've had a fun time...By curiosity, who was your champion for your team?

Oliver: As in my strongest Pokémon? Well uhh…
*Oliver’s Rotom-Phone shows Martha his team. A Pikachu, Snivy, Weavile, Lucario, Dragonite, and a Goodra.*

Martha: Oh wow...quite some strong Pokémon there. A Dragonite, Lucario, and the Iconic Pikachu too...and...I see you have a Goodra too.

Oliver: Yeah, I told you I had one.

Martha: Heh...they look real cute. But also they look like they mean business too.

Oliver: Weavile did especially. Since I fought it myself. Uhh, Gertrude wasn’t happy with that.

Martha: Gertrude...Who's that?
Oliver: A friend of mine who runs a Boutique.

Martha: Oh. Well, you still got yourself a dream team there. I bet they can beat anyone.

Oliver: They did for a while. Heh. And now I’m having an adventure in my home.

Martha: Don't you miss them? Like, I carry my Goodra everywhere, even if I don't use her. She's like my best friend.

Oliver: Hey, it’s what PC boxes are for. My friend Anthony runs a ranch where our past Pokémon are, so he can transfer them if need be.

Martha: Ah...heh...still though, GG is pretty special to me...and not JUST cause she's a Shiny Goodra.

Oliver: Hey I believe it. I’ve not encountered a Shiny myself yet.

Martha: You'll find one...Or, in my case, they'll find you. If you had a choice, what Shiny Pokémon would you want on your team?

Oliver: Hmm…Not sure.
Martha: Alright. Well surely you'd have a choice once your mind comes up to it.

Oliver: Heh, yeah. Thanks Martha.

Martha: No problem. Now...is there anything else you wanna talk about?

Oliver: Well, what are your friends like?

GG: Well, Penelope is a near perfect example of my friend Pamela. Who is also someone with science under their belt.

Oliver: I see. Is there any more?

Gloria: Is my boss at work, but she's pretty friendly too. She too owns a boutique and makes some wonderful clothes. And I work for her as her model...since...you know...there aren't a whole lot of options for clothes when you're as big as me.

Oliver: I dunno. There are some pretty big people in this region too.

Martha: Not from where I came from...
Oliver: Eh, you'd be surprised.

Martha: But yeah, I'm one of her best employees. And...I will admit, I have gotten my clothes from her most of the time.

Oliver: *blushes* Hey it's alright. You look good.

Martha: *blushes* Thanks...I'm not one who dresses all fancy and such. So it means a lot.

Oliver: Hey, no problem. I just wear whatever I want to as well, so it's fine.

Martha: Same here, I want clothes to best fit my personality. Big, soft, and warm.

Oliver: Heheh…yeah.

Martha: I mean, why wear them if they're not gonna be comfortable?

Oliver: Heh, fair enough. So...are you ready to get moving? We should catch up to Eddie before he gets too far ahead.

Martha: Sure. Let's continue on. That way I wouldn't be in the freezing temperatures for too long.

Oliver: Yeah, let's get a move on.
Martha: And hey, if Eddie bugs you again..Just let me know.

Oliver: Oh I don’t think I’ll have any trouble doing that…

Martha: Good to hear…
*The two exit the cafe and make their way back through the Wild Area to make their way over to Frostborne City. As they approached, they decided to do some farming, leveling up their Pokémon in anticipation of the next challenge ahead.*

Martha: Okay...who's up for some battle training here? Dubwool? Thwackey? Yamper?

Oliver: I'm gonna work on leveling up everyone. It does get a little unfair using my starter for everything.

Martha: Yeah, balance your team out Oliver. It will benefit you in the long haul.

Oliver: Oh, I know that one. Don’t worry about that. I’ve gotten a few evolutions going on from here.

Martha: Hmm...maybe I should Focus on my Yamper. He's in need of some power.

Oliver: I'm mainly just focusing on levels. Just watch yourself for certain Pokémon. Some of them are too overleveled for us right now.

Martha: Will do. And the same goes for you and Eddie...Wherever he is.

Oliver: I'm sure we'll run into 'im. Now let's get to work.

Martha: Yup! C'mon guys, you three need some more training.
*And with that, the two split off and get to work, encountering and defeating Pokémon where they could, leveling up their teams as much as they could. As Martha took a break, Yamper began glowing in blue light.*

Martha: Huh...oh! Hee hee, it's time for his Evolution! I wonder what he's gonna look like...
*As the light dissipated, a bigger skinny dog Pokémon stood before Martha. It let out a bark as Rotom-Phone floated in front of it and took a picture to relay the information about the Pokémon to Martha.*

Rotom-Phone: Congratulations Martha! Your Yamper evolved into Boltund! This Pokémon generates electricity and channels it into its legs to keep them going strong. Boltund can run nonstop for three full days. It sends electricity through its legs to boost their strength. Running at top speed, it easily breaks 50 mph.

Martha: Wow...heh. Aren't you a cute pup. Thanks Rotom-Phone.
*Boltund yaps before speeding over to Martha and licks her, panting in its new body.*

Martha: Whoa! Ha ha ha! Okay bud, I get that you're real excited. You might be competing against GG here.

Boltund: *Bark! bark!*

Martha: Alright big boy. Let's keep moving. Your friends wanna level up too.
*A little while after training together, Martha stopped to feed her Pokémon. And as they were all eating together along with her, the Milcery she caught picked up a strawberry sweet that Martha had. It took a bite and enjoyed it so much, it began twirling around with the treat in hand. And just like that, it began glowing in blue light just like Yamper did.*

Martha: Whoa, heh...you little sneak...what are you gonna evolve into?
*Once the light faded, a two toned pink Pokémon with strawberries on its head stood before Martha. Its body looked like swirls of icing.*

Rotom-Phone: An Alcremie!

Martha: Hee hee hee. You look so cute, I can just eat you up...and I'm a sucker for sweets...now, I won't actually do that.

Alcremie: C-Cremie…

Rotom-Phone: When it trusts a Trainer, it will treat them to berries it's decorated with cream.
When Alcremie is content, the cream it secretes from its hands becomes sweeter and richer.

Martha: Oh...it's alright there Alcremie, I'm not gonna hurt you. If anything, I'm gonna make you stronger.

Alcremie: Alcrem…

Rotom-Phone: Hmm…it appears to be shy. Looks like you got some work to do there Martha.

Martha: It's okay. I'm a patient trainer.
*After a while, Martha was able to get Alcremie welcomed and comfortable in the group. And that's when she saw what looked to be another contender for her team. A small, slightly rotund goat Pokémon. It was tending to an injured water Pokémon by the lake, and waved as it was sent on its way.*

Martha: Hmm...now what kind of Pokemon are you there fella?

Rotom-Phone: That is an Indeedee. These intelligent Pokémon touch horns with each other to share information between them. They diligently serve people and Pokémon so they can gather feelings of gratitude. The females are particularly good at babysitting.

Martha: *chuckle* Sounds an awful lot like me...lets see if I can add another to our roster.
*The Indeedee hears Martha and turns around to face her. A battle had begun.*

Martha: Oh, here we go! Let's go Boltund!
*With a flair of spin, Martha tossed out a pokéball. Boltund bounds out with a spark.*

Boltund: Boooolt!

Indeedee: In...deee!
*Indeedee fires a beam of swirling energy which changes colour constantly. It hit Boltund for a fair bit of damage.*

Martha: Use Spark Boltund! Then follow up with a Bite!
*Boltund uses Spark to damage Indeedee, stunning it, before following up with a Crunch, dealing massive damage to it.*

Martha: Now, go for a swift Bite again!
*Before Boltund could land another Bite, Indeedee uses Disarming Voice, letting out a high pitched cry, sending Boltund backwards.*

Martha: Whoa...okay, hmm...let's take this moment to think. Focus up Boltund!
*Boltund snarls and starts sparking, and Indeedee responds by firing another swirly multicoloured beam at Boltund.*

Martha: Dodge! And go for another Bite attempt!
*Boltund bounds over the attack and bites on Indeedee, knocking it down, almost to the point of fainting. This was Martha’s shot for a Pokéball throw. Like before, Martha pitches the Pokéball with a spin like it was a baseball. It corkscrews towards the Indeedee before capturing it.*

Martha: Yes! Another one, in the bag! Or should I say...ball.
*The ball absorbs Indeedee in a red light as it shuts tight. One roll, two rolls…Click! Indeedee was caught!*

Martha: Nice! Great work Boltund!

Boltund: Bark Bark!
*The day goes by and Oliver and Martha meet up to catch up.*

Martha: Hey there Oliver! Guess what...? I just caught myself an Indeedee!

Oliver: Cool! I got some more evolutions under my belt!
Martha: Oh really? Who've you gotten to evolve?

Oliver: Lemme show you!
*Oliver throws multiple Pokéballs into the air and out come Raboot, Thievul, Boltund, and an Eldegoss.*

Martha: Whoa...heh, nice team you're building there Oliver...Hmm, wonder what Eddie has done. Did he catch anything?

Oliver: I haven’t seen him. I guess that’s a sign we should hurry up.

Martha: Right. Well, let's get a move on. Unless having him brag about him being quicker than us is something you want?

Oliver: Of course not! …Hmm…actually…he’s a sore winner…but, how’s about a quick battle?

Martha: Hmm...heh, I don't mind that at all.
Oliver: Heh, alright. Let’s get started.

Martha: Remember, this is just practice.
Oliver: I know. I just get fired up with battles.

Martha: Okay...let's go Boltund!
*Tossing out her Pokéball, Martha summons Boltund for their battle.*

Martha: Who do you choose, Oliver?

Oliver: Heh, that’s easy. Get ready…

(To be continued…)

Oliver and Penelope belong to me.

Eddie and the Artist Trainer belong to Projones-FTW

Martha belongs to goodragirl490

Smeargle, Dubwool, Ariados, Yamper, Raboot, Koffing, Whirlipede, Seviper, Alcremie, Indeedee, and Boltund belong to Gamefreak and Nintendo.

Description
*After an unfortunate farewell to Sobble, Oliver and the others enjoyed a dairy treat, before working their way back through the Wild Area to the next City. Pheromosa City.*

Oliver: Alright, Pheromosa City. The second Gym should be around here somewhere…

Martha: Best of luck to the both of you. That first Gym was a bit tough.

Oliver: Umm, what do you mean? I’m sure you’ll do great.

Martha: After that last gym...I'm more skeptical about my own abilities as a trainer. I mean, I won...But just barely...

Oliver: Hey c’mon, don’t say that. You’re a great trainer. You managed to conquer Kalos, what’s stopping you from winning here in Galar?

Martha: Well, it's just a thought in the back of my head.
Oliver: Well, don’t listen to it. You and your team are going to do great things.

Martha: Thanks. You too. Eddie...Umm, well...He's got his methods.
Oliver: Tell me about it…Still, I know you’ll be great!

Martha: Heh, thanks...But it's a wake up call to get things in gear for me and my team.

Oliver: I’m glad to hear that. Still, I guess now Eddie’s run ahead we could spend some time together looking around the city?

Martha: Sure. I don't mind a little stroll.
Oliver: Great! Let’s go!

Martha: Right behind you Oliver!
*Oliver and Martha then took their stroll through Pheromosa City, taking in the sights and smells of the city. There were stalls with flowers, perfumes, and other fragrances, and food stores. Along with people and Pokémon. Although, there seemed to be a fair few dark and poison types around.*

Martha: Heh, some of these Pokémon mean business. I've definitely had some run-ins with some of these guys.

Oliver: Oh yeah...? Care to share?

Martha: I've dealt with a Nidoqueen who was dominating a Gym I was competing in. And I got stomped...In more times I can count.

Oliver: A Nidoqueen huh? Yeah, the nido’s are real powerhouses. That's why I had a Nidoqueen in my team when I visited Kalos myself. I remember in Kanto I couldn't get past the poison Gym for the life of me...

Martha: Me too! Eventually, I got lucky with the way I was managing my team to take it down.

Oliver: Same here with the Poison Gym...It makes me wonder what the Gym here is like.

Martha: Well never know until we head on inside. That's for sure.

Oliver: Yeah, but for now, I think it’d be good to just take in the sights, maybe pick up a few things here and there, and just chill before we go right back at the Gym Challenge.

Martha: I'm alright with that. A shame Eddie wasn't interested in joining us, but I'll leave him be.

Oliver: He’s too busy leveling up his “new friend”, so I figured you could use a break from his whole thing he’s got going on.

Martha: I can use one. And so can you.
Oliver: It’s that easy to tell, huh?

Martha: Pretty much...But hey, I'm not complaining for some time to unwind and relax. And neither is GG.

Oliver: Heh, fair enough.
*As the two explored the town, they spotted an artist, with a canvas. Along with a Smeargle using its painted tail to paint the city walls.*

Martha: Oh wow, that's a cute little painting you're working on there.

???: Thank you there, kind lady! I figured it would be something nice for the people to see in their daily lives of walking through town.

Oliver: Well, it’s lookin’ nice there mate.

Martha: Yeah. I'm also one who's done some art in my spare time.

Oliver: Heh, seems like we’ve all dabbled in art together at some point or another.

Martha: Oh, you never mentioned to me that you've done some art. Can I see it?

Oliver: Oh, I don't have any of it on me, but if I get a book or something, I can draw up something.

Martha: Ah, alright. And as for your Smeargle, they really got their eye in their work. I love the detail he's got on this painting.

Smeargle: Smea! Gle!

???: Heh, well, I'm glad I could show off some of me and my Smeargle's talent.

Martha: And let's not forget about you and your art kind stranger.

???: Much obliged there. Have a good day you two!
*After leaving the artisan and his Pokémon to work, Oliver and Martha continue their stroll through town. ...That was however until a pair of thuggish teens stood in front of them.*

Rough looking teen: Sweet Arceus, look at her outfit.

Rough looking teen 2: That's mad. I wouldn't be seen dead wearing that, fam.

Oliver: What's up with you two? ...*Thinking: Hold on...these look similar to the people Eddie took care of before he traded Sobble...*

Martha: So I like Goodras. That's not that big of a deal. I'm not saying negative stuff about what you two are wearing.

Rough looking teen 1: Pfft, you hear how bait she sounds bruv?

Rough looking teen 2: Yeah, we can't have that. That's a violation and a half there.
*Oliver notices that they were surrounded by more of the thugs.*

Oliver: If there's one thing I hate more than roadmen, it's the ones who think acting hard's gonna help them...Martha, it looks like we're gonna have to fight.

Martha: I was afraid of that...But if it means teaching these brutes a lesson, I'm by your side.

Oliver: Sounds good...

Rough looking teen 1: Heh, this bird thinks she's gonna win! That's jokes!

Rough looking teen 3: Innit bruv? Let's par these wastemen off!

Oliver: Ugh, it sucks that people here talk like that. Alright, let's do this. It'll be practice enough for ya.

Martha: Yup...Let’s go!
*And just like that, Oliver and Martha were roped into another battle. It seemed like the rough teens were all wearing puffer jackets with the letters T and S overlapping each other on some kind of logo on them as they got ready to battle, sending out Pokémon like Koffing, and Stunfisk and Perrserker.*
Koffing: Kooooooff!

Stunfisk: Stuuuunfisk!

Perrserker: Purr!

Martha: Yup, these Pokémon are familiar to me. Go Wooloo!

Oliver: Raboot! Let's go!
*Oliver and Martha throw the Pokéballs with their Pokémon in to start the battle.*

Rough looking teen 1: Koffing! Hit that rabbit ting with the Sludge yeah?

Rough looking teen 2: Stunfisk! Go for that Super soak bruv!

Rough looking teen 3: Yo Perr! Hit that sheep wih' dat Metal Claw!
*The three Pokémon charge at Oliver and Martha's. Wooloo takes moderate damage from Metal Claw.*

Oliver: Raboot! Dodge them and go for Perrserker with Flame Charge!
*Raboot's feet set alight and starts sprinting at Perrserker and dodging between Water gun and Sludge, before landing a hard hit on the Perrserker, sending it tumbling backwards.*

Martha: Woolo! Go for the Perrserker with a headbutt! Then shift focus on the Koffing!
*Wooloo charges at Perrserker. Although Headbutt didn’t do a lot of damage, it did cause the cat to flinch, as it’s next attack went to Koffing.*

Oliver: Raboot! Flame Charge again!

Raboot: BOOT!
*With another fiery kick, Raboot KO’s Perrserker, leaving Koffing and Stunfisk left.*

Martha: Guard split Wooloo, on that Koffing! Now!

Wooloo: Woooool!
*Wooloo used Guard Split on the Koffing, as Oliver sent Raboot after Stunfisk.*

Martha: Now, hit that Koffing with a Take down Wooloo!
*Wooloo baa’s as it crashes into Koffing, knocking it into Stunfisk, while taking a bit of recoil damage. Stunfisk was all that was left.

Martha: Now to finish up with the fish...Wooloo, Double kick! Let’s show these thugs who's boss!

Oliver: Raboot! Flame Charge one more time!
*BOOM! With a hard and fiery crash from Wooloo and Raboot, the thugs were beaten.*

Rough looking teen 3: Oi nah! Forget this man! Dem Pokemon are on some joke ting!

Rough looking teen 2: Innit?! We just got owned! ?!
*Suddenly, Wooloo starts glowing in a blue light. Moments pass and Wooloo evolves into Dubwool.*

Martha: Whoa! Heh, I guess this fight proved fruitful!
Dubwool: WOOL!

Rough looking teen 1: Oi, forget this man! This was bare long and we didn't even get any EXP and dat!
*The rough teens ran away, and in their panic, they dropped some prize money.*

Oliver: Hmph. You okay, Martha?

Martha: I'm good...Man, the nerve of some trainers...Right? At least they were "nice enough" to help me and, now my Dubwool, to evolve.

Oliver: Sure...well, anyway, we should keep moving. We've caused enough of a scene in town thanks to that.

Martha: Well, they started it...*Huff* but...I swear, their faces looked familiar to me.

Oliver: But you’ve…never been here before.

Martha: No, not from here...Like, from the previous gym...I could have sworn I've seen their faces...I dunno, maybe it's me.

Oliver: It was most likely the jackets. Anyway, how’s a bite to eat sound?

Martha: Of course! I'm always in for food.

Oliver: Great! I’m sure we can find a great place for grub around here.

Martha: I'm right behind you Oliver. Lead the way!
*It took a bit of looking, but Oliver soon found a good place for him and Martha to eat.*

Oliver: Heh, I gotta say, even though the circumstances sucked at the time, that battle worked up an appetite. For us and our Pokémon.

Martha: More for GG and Dubwool here. But I'm also up for some grub.

Oliver: This is for you to enjoy too. You’ve earned it just as much.

Martha: I know that. But they deserve some nice food too.

Oliver: Of course they do!

Martha: Another reason is that GG often takes a lot of food to satisfy...Pretty much taking it from me...
*Martha blushes as she bashfully eats with Oliver.*

Oliver: Hey, it’s all good. Me and Ed have to put a lot of food away too.

Martha: Well, now I know I'm not alone when it comes to being a foodie.

Oliver: Heh, yeah.
*Soon, the two enjoyed a meal together with their Pokémon before getting back to exploring the town.*

Martha: So, I'm curious. When did you start as a trainer?

Oliver: I started at the age of 11. Going from region to region, seeing what they had to offer. But it seems strange leaving my home region up until now to do...

Martha: Well, you seem to be doing well for yourself.

Oliver: Thanks. And so are you. Care to share about yourself? Where have you been on your travels?

Martha: My story is more or less like yours. Except when I first lost my Gym battle in the Hisui region, it was the spark of a great "quest". Because from there, that's where I got connected with one Pokemon in particular...I'll give you a guess on which one that is.

Oliver: Uhh...Hisui?

Martha: It was around there, I lost at the gym against someone who's got a Goodra by their side.

Oliver: That's a region I've never heard of before...

Martha: Hmm, maybe I can take you there sometime. Who knows, you might find yourself a Goodra of your own.

Oliver: Heh, I already got one...but I guess taking a look at the Pokémon from there could be cool.

Martha: Ah, well just to let you know, some of the Pokémon aren't as friendly as GG here.

Oliver: Some of them usually aren't.
*BOOOOM! Getting the two's attention, a giant explosion of pink gas came from where the Gym would have been.*

Oliver: What the heck was that?!

Martha: I'm not sure...But I have a funny feeling that it involves our pal Eddie.

Oliver: We better check it out!

Martha: I'm with you, c'mon!
*The two quickly return their Pokémon to their Pokéballs and rush over to the gym where the explosion occurred. Several people and Pokémon were wandering out of the building through the pink haze, dazed. One of which was a violet haired woman in a lab coat, with two glasses in both hands.*

???: Whoops...! It looks like there was something missing from the compound...! heh heh heh!

Martha: W-What happened here?! What caused that huge pink explosion?!

???: *cough! cough!* Heh heh...There's no need to panic...! It was just a little experiment of mine that went awry. Sorry about that...!

Martha: Well...I-if you say so...But, what experiment were you doing exactly?

???: Oh, it was just a test to see if poison from Pokémon could be used in perfumes and fragrances. And it seems so, although the results here aren't exactly favorable...heh heh...

Oliver: You don't say.
Martha: P-Poison...? For some perfume?

???: Yes! There are chemicals that can be used to reverse the effects of the poison, and make them suitable for perfumes and other beauty products!

Martha: I dunno if I fully trust that...But, good work...Umm...W-who are you?

???: Penelope! One of Pheromosa City's Chief scientists! ...And Gym Leader!

Penelope: Also, what's not to trust? Our City's name comes from it's brands of beauty products around here!

Martha: No no, I'm talking about using poison as perfume. But...I guess there's a workaround for some things.

Penelope: Indeed! Especially in the name of science! ...Anyway, judging by those Dynamax bands on your wrists, you're taking part in the Gym Challenge?

Martha: huh? Oh, yeah. Me and Oliver are starting that same challenge.

Penelope: I see! Well, would you like for us to get started with the trial before you can face me?

Martha: Oh, umm...Sure...I guess. You ready Oliver?

Oliver: Yeah, I'm ready.
Penelope: Excellent! Follow me!

Martha: I wonder if Eddie is around here...Probably...
Oliver: Probably. Don’t worry about him. He knows what he’s doing.

Martha: If you say so...
*Once Oliver and Martha make it inside, they are taken into a laboratory-like labyrinth below the gym.*

Martha: Hmm...Interesting place you have here.

Penelope: Indeed! And now, for the trial! You must collect three ingredients! There are twelve in total, and six are required to make the compound I was trying to make! Good luck!

Martha: Ingredients...? Umm...Okay, well that's new.

Oliver: A fetch quest before the main event? Nah. Just another day in the office.

Martha: I'm talking about these things being in a lab underneath the gym...But hey, it's still something we gotta do.

Oliver: Yeah...alright. Let's split up and cover some ground. You ready?

Martha: I'm ready. Definitely ready. You be careful now Oliver.

Oliver: You too!
*The two split off across the maze as Penelope was preparing her equipment for testing the experiments once they brought the ingredients back. In the maze, Oliver and Martha were looking for ingredients like medicinal and revival herbs, along with different types of berries.*

Martha: Hmm...Ah-ha! Here's some herbs! Add that to the list.
*Martha knew she had picked up the right ingredient as a horde of Salandit appeared from the dark corner of the maze, hissing as they crawled towards Martha with hostility.*

Martha: Whoa! Alright. Let's go Yamper!
*Pulling out a Pokeball, Martha then releases her Yamper to stand and fight.*

Yamper: Yap yap!
*Yamper growls as the poisonous lizards zone in on the two. With an abrupt hiss, some of them jump up and fling either flame or poisonous gunk at the two.*

Martha: Gah! Alright, go for a Roar buddy!
*Yamper roars at the incoming Salandit. However, due to it being a horde battle, the effect wasn't the same. Rather than forcing the opponent to fall back, some of the Salandit got flung back instead, leaving them open for Yamper to attack.*

Martha: Wow! Now that was a powerful roar.

Yamper: Yamp! Yap!
*One of the Salandit hisses and goes for Ember, damaging Yamper, and another goes for poison sting, damaging the little corgi further.*

Yamper: Yamp…

Martha: Oh no! Umm...Okay, Yamper! Use Charge!
*As Yamper stands, charging electrical energy, it gets hit by more fire and poison attacks. It was still standing, but not by much. The next attack from it had to count.*

Martha: Spark! Use Spark Yamper!
*Yamper howls as it erupts in sparking electricity, before throwing itself into the horde of Salandit, tasing and defeating them all with ease, as they flee away into the maze.*

Martha: Nice work there pup!
Yamper: Yap Yap!

Martha: I promise you, you are in great hands.

Yamper: Yamp!
*Yamper jumps up and licks Martha on the face as they advance through the maze. Meanwhile, Oliver picked up his first ingredient and was on his way to the second.*

Oliver: Alright Raboot, let's move!

Raboot: Boot!
*The two race through the twists and turns in the maze until they come across the second ingredient, a jar of sweet honey.*

Oliver: Really…? Just what’s with having all these ingredients in a maze for fun…?
Raboot: Aboot…

Oliver: Yeah, try telling them that, buddy.
*As Oliver picks up the jar, some Gloom block him and Raboot in.*

Oliver: Oh phew…It’s something we can handle. Robot, use Ember!
*Raboot shoots at the pair of Gloom and kicks a small flame at the Gloom for big damage. To make things worse for the plant Pokémon, it set alight as the small fire rabbit managed to prock a burn.*

Oliver: Nice goin’, Raboot!
*The two Gloom retaliate by going for Giga Drain. Despite not being very effective, Raboot still took a bit of damage, but it was still standing strong.*

Raboot: Rab…Boot…

Oliver: It’s alright Raboot. We got this. Let;s hurry up and beat these herbs already.
*Later, the two meet back with the current ingredients they have. But they're both missing one last ingredient.*

Martha: Hey Ol'! Me and Yamper got one of those needed ingredients.

Oliver: Yeah, me and Raboot got ours too, but we're missing one ingredient still.

Martha: We got the herbs, a jar of honey for some reason…and now all that's left...Is...

Oliver: Some Pecha Berries.
Martha: Alright...You wanna find them together?

Oliver: Sure. We both need the same thing so why not.

Martha: Okay...Let's find that last ingredient...
Oliver: Yeah, together.

Martha: Want me to lead the way? Or do you wish to show me how strong of a trainer you are?

Oliver: Sure! Let’s do it!
*Martha takes the lead as she wanders through the dark maze with Oliver behind her. Oliver and Raboot follow Martha to the last part of the maze where the ingredients were.*

Martha: Hmm...I think we've found them...But, be prepared for anything Oliver.

Oliver: Got it. ?!
*Oliver steps in front of Martha as a silky thread gets spun on the Pecha berries. Just then, a horde of Ariados, Spider-like Pokémon swarmed the berries.*

Martha: GAAAH!! Not those things again!
Oliver: H-Huh? Whoa, you alright? What's got you so spooked?

Martha: I have a deep fear of spiders! And those guys look like them too...

Oliver: I see...Well then, you won't mind me dealing with them then?
Martha: B-Be my guest...I'm sorry, I just had a bad experience with those things...

Oliver: It's no trouble. Alright, Raboot! Tag in!

Raboot! Boot!
*Raboot hops in front of Oliver and gets ready to battle against the purple arachnids.*

Martha: Umm...I'll just...Hang back here and stay far away from those things...Yamper, Go!
*Martha tosses her Pokéball to help assist Oliver fight, but after doing so, she runs off to monitor the fight.*

Yamper: Yap! Yap!
Oliver: Heh, thanks for the assist there, Martha.

Ariados: Hiss!
*The purple spiders zip along the walls of the maze and get ready to attack Yamper and Raboot, whether it be with their fangs or poisonous attacks.*

Oliver: Raboot! Use Quick Attack!
*Raboot uses it's powerful feet to bound between the walls of the maze, bashing the series of Ariados off course, damaging them.*

Oliver: Martha! Your turn!

Martha: *distant* Like before buddy! Go for the Roar!
*Yamper roars, helping out Oliver and Raboot as it sends the Ariados' flying backwards.*

Martha: *distant* Yeah! Nice one!

Oliver: Raboot! Flame charge!
*Raboot blinks between the Ariados, kicking them with fiery feet with some speed behind them.*

Martha: *distant* Spark Yamper! Do it now!
*Yamper engulfs itself in sparks of electricity before crashing into the Ariados', sending some flying, and stunning some with paralysis.*

Martha: *distant* Your move now Oliver!

Oliver: Right! Raboot! Speed things up! Flame Charge!
*With another flaming speed attack, Raboot defeats a few of the Ariados, while a few remain.*

Martha: *distant* Crunch Yamper! Crunch! We need to win this now!
*Yamper growls as it bounds towards the spider-like Pokémon before sinking it's teeth into the creature, causing it to let out a hostile hiss, as Raboot aided against the other ones using Quick Attack and Ember.*

Oliver: It's alright Martha! We got this...
*With a few more fire based attacks, the horde of Ariados was defeated, and Oliver picked up a few of the Pecha Berries to return back to Penelope with.*

Martha: Here's your ingredients...By the way, let me know if there are spider-based Pokémon in your quest in future.

Penelope: Oh? Are spiders a phobia of yours? I could mix a remedy to fix that for you if you wish.

Martha: Yes, it is a phobia of mine...And...I guess...Yeah, sure, I'd like to get that fixed...

Oliver: Hold on. You're not exploding all over Pheromosa City. We'll find another way.

Martha: Heh, thanks Oliver...I just, I'm not too fond of things with eight legs.

Oliver: I can tell...

Penelope: Well, are you fond of participating in an experiment, where the reaction could result in a second Gym badge?

Martha: Does it involve creepy crawlies?

Penelope: Well…to some degree, yes. But I assure you, not spider-like ones.
Martha: Well...At least it's not like arachnids...Alright Penelope, what's our next task?

Penelope: Why, face me in a gym battle!
Martha: Oh, alright then. Now that's something I won't complain about.

Penelope: Very good! Now, who would like to go first?

Martha: Hmm...Do you wanna go first Oliver?

Oliver: Sure, I'll do what I can.

Penelope: Splendid! Let's get things started!
*Soon enough, the three found themselves at Pheromosa City's stadium where Oliver and Penelope were getting ready to face each other. As Martha was watching from the rafters, Eddie returns and sits next to her.*

Eddie: 'Ey up.
Martha: Heh, where have you been? You've missed out on a bit of a labyrinth crawl.

Eddie: You what? You mean the maze? Nah nah, I've done it. I even got me second Gym badge too! And found out where we got to go for the third. But some of them Scally trainers are blocking the way.

Martha: By any chance, were these trainers have mainly poison or dark Pokémon? Wearing all leather jackets and such?

Eddie: Nah, they're Puffer Jackets. And yeah, they're the same ones I dealt with near the bug Gym.

Martha: Me and Oliver both ran into them as well while we were exploring the city...I swear, I thought I can recall their faces...

Eddie: They're more annoying than anything. Anyway, I'm gonna sit for a bit. I'm cream crackered...
*Back on the battlefield, Oliver was getting ready to face Penelope.*

Penelope: Heh, I, I'm gonna say this now, you won't be able to win, but don't worry. Your attempt will be valuable, all for the name of science.

Oliver: Heh, keep telling yourself that...
*After passing the labyrinth trial Penelope had set up as part of her gym test, Oliver was now facing her and her team of Pokémon.*

Penelope: Heh, I, I'm gonna say this now, you won't be able to win, but don't worry. Your attempt will be valuable, all for the name of science.

Oliver: Heh, keep telling yourself that...

Penelope: Very well...We'll make you're confidence the next experiment of mine! Koffing! Let's go!
*With the throw of a Pokéball, Penelope sends out a Koffing, a strange floating creature with a dopey smile, and green gas emitting from it's body.*

Oliver: Okay...This seems simple enough...Yamper, Go!
*Oliver throws out a Pokéball and sends out Yamper. It yaps with enthusiasm as the battle got underway.*

Martha: You got this Oliver! You and Yamper!

Penelope: Go for Rollout again!
*Whielilede does just that, but Oliver sees it coming and commands Raboot to dodge. Once it does, it follows up with another Flame Charge, dealing big damage and boosting its own speed.*

Penelope: Koffing! Use Sludge!
*Koffing floats toward Yamper with speed and goes to douse it in a purple, poisonous gunk.*

Oliver: Dodge it and use Roar!
*Yamper jumps up above Koffing and lets out the meanest barks and snarls it could muster, sending Koffing back over to Penelope's side as another Pokémon from her team was dragged out in it's place. It was a Whirlipede, a round purple centipede Pokémon.*

Whirlipede: Whirl. Pede.

Oliver: Alright, Yamper, return!
*Oliver then switches out Yamper and sends in Raboot.*

Eddie: Ah...I see what he was going for.
Martha: Yeah...yeah! I see it too!

Penelope: Use Rollout!
*Whirlipede starts rolling towards Raboot like a wheel, kicking up dirt as it barrelled towards the small fire rabbit.*

Oliver: Raboot! Dodge it and use Flame Charge!
*Raboot uses it's feet to dart out of the way before taking a running start at the spinning bug Pokémon before summoning flames all around it before kicking the Pokémon on it's side, dealing big damage at the same time.*

Martha: Whoa-ho! That was perfect!
Penelope: Whirlipede!

Martha: Wow...that Raboot sure is holding it's out out there. Isn't it Eddie?

Eddie: Yeah. So will my Mudkip and Sizzlipede.

Martha: My team will be the same. But hey, you never know.
*THUD! Raboot continued outspeed Whirlipede and managed to KO it. Penelope switches it back out for Koffing.*

Oliver: Nice one! Keep it up Raboot.
Martha: Man...they're good. And that Koffing is already damaged.

Eddie: No. Roar isn’t a move that does damage. All it does is switch the opponent’s Pokémon.

Martha: Ah. Well, Oliver definitely still has some tricks up his sleeve.

Oliver: Raboot! Use Ember!

Penelope: Assurance!
*Koffing glows pink before ramming into Raboot, sending it bouncing back toward Oliver.*

Oliver: What the?!

Penelope: Assurance. Goes first if the opponent’s attack is guaranteed to go first.

Martha: Oh...darn. That messes me up too sometimes...

Oliver: Alright then…
Penelope: Use Sludge again!

Oliver: Use Quick Attack!
*Raboot sprints at Koffing with a white energy streaking from it, dodging the puddle of purple gunk and kicks Koffing with force.*

Martha: C'mon Oliver...you can do this...I know you can...

Penelope: Koffing, Tackle!
Oliver: Raboot, Flame Charge!

Koffing: Kooooooff…

Raboot: Raaaaaab…BOOT!
*The two Pokémon clash in the center of the arena, kicking up a pretty big smoke cloud for two small Pokémon. But as it cleared, Koffing slowly floated downwards and was KO’ed by its injuries.*

Martha: Woo! Nice work there Oliver!

Penelope: Very good! However, I still got one more Pokémon up my sleeve. Seviper, let’s go!
*One last Pokémon came from Penelope, a purple snake with a red tipped blade tail. It lets out a hiss as she reveals her Dynamax band.*

Penelope: And now, for the testing phase of this experiment!
*Like with Freya’s Butterfree, Penelope returns Seviper and a rose energy shrouds the Pokéball and it grows in size as she hurls it in the air with two hands. Seviper grows to the size of the stadium and let’s out a long, deep hiss.*

Martha: ...Oh...heh, guess I spoke too soon. Well, you still got this Oliver!

Oliver: Heh...I knew this was a thing in our region, but not with EVERY battle...Still, I'm game.
*Oliver returns Raboot and uses his Dynamax band before releasing Raboot again in it's Dynamax form.*

Martha: Go Raboot! Heh...these fights always get me all excited.

Penelope: Audience cheer levels optimal. Very well, let us continue. Seviper! Poison Tail!
*Despite it not being how the move SHOULD look, Seviper flooded the ground level of the stadium with purple gunk, and it exploded in geysers around the stadium's battle ground to deal damage to Raboot in the form of Max Ooze. But despite the attack looking fatal, Raboot stood tall, ready to continue.*

Oliver: Great job Raboot! Use Flame Charge!
*Raboot douses itself in flames before charging at Seviper and kicking it in the face. The kick acted as the catalyst to cause an explosion which erupted from the stadium in the form of Max Flare. But as the flames and smoke passed, the giant snake and rabbit were still standing.*

Martha: ...Whoa...both are pretty strong.
*The two giant Pokémon continued to dish out strong Dynamax attacks two more times each, the four attacks rattling the stadium before they shrunk back down to regular size.*

Martha: Man...every time that happens, I swear they could level mountains.

Eddie: Probably...

Penelope: Oh well...Back down to size eh? Seviper, use Bite!
*Seviper hisses before slithering towards Raboot, it's mouth open ready to bite down.*

Oliver: Dodge it and use Flame Charge!
*Raboot barely manages to avoid the attack and hits Seviper with the attack, only for Seviper to twist it's body around and bites Raboot before slithering back to Penelope.*

Martha: Oh man...this fight it pretty close...
Penelope: Go for Poison Tail!

Oliver: Quick attack!
*The two Pokémon continue to clash in the middle of the arena. The crowd going nuts as the battle was reaching its end.*

Martha: Geez...Oliver and Penelope aren't intent on losing here.

Penelope: Bite again!

Oliver: Use Ember!
*As Seviper went to chomp down on Raboot, it blasted Seviper with a fire attack, knocking it out, ending the battle. The crowd roars loudly as Oliver and his Raboot stood proudly.*

Martha: Woo hoo! You did it Oliver!

Oliver: Phew, we did it Raboot! Don’t worry. We’ll get ya fixed up at the Pokémon Center yeah?

Raboot: Rab! Boot!
*As Oliver returned Raboot to its ball, Penelope approached him to award him the second Gym badge.*

Penelope: I must say, even though this experiment didn’t come out in my favour, I’m glad to report your Pokémon are getting much stronger. And now, I award you the Corrosion badge. Don’t worry, it’s not actually corrosive hehe…I double checked.
*As Oliver was awarded his next badge, he leaves and joins Eddie and Martha in the rafters.*

Martha: Wow...you two make quite the team. Nice fighting out there.
Oliver: Thanks Martha. Are you ready for your turn?

Martha: I'll do my best out there!

Oliver: Alright then. Good luck!

Martha: Thanks...*Deep breath* Okay...let's do this...
*Martha then heads down from the rafters she was sitting at and steps onto the gym arena. Oliver and Eddie were now watching as Martha was getting ready to battle Penelope. After completing the trial before the battle with Penelope, the Poison Type Gym Leader, Oliver takes the first battle and wins with not many issues. After his win, Martha congratulates him before then heading down from the rafters she was sitting at and steps onto the gym arena. Oliver and Eddie were now watching as Martha was getting ready to battle Penelope.*

Penelope: Ah, another test subject. Shall we begin?

Martha: I'm ready for ya. Let's do this!
*With Pokéball in hand, Martha was ready to battle it out against Penelope, who sends out her first Pokémon Koffing and awaits Martha’s response.*

Martha: Alright Thwackey, you're up!
*Martha tosses out her Pokémon, Thwackey, into the fight.*

Thwackey: Thwaaack!!
Martha: Ready bud?

Eddie: Does she have a plan? She does know Grass is weak to poison right?

Martha: Alright, this might be tough in the beginning Thwackey, but I promise this is just the start. Now, give them a Screech!
*Thwackey lets out it’s cry, lowering Koffing’s defense.*

Penelope: Alright, use Sludge!
*Koffing fires a large blob of purple funk towards Thwackey.*

Martha: Dodge!
*Thwackey does so, narrowly avoiding the attack.*

Martha: Okay, now go for the Razor Leaf!
*A swarm of jagged sharp leaves damaged Koffing, although it wasn’t by much due to the type advantage against Thwackey.*

Martha: Alright...now to go for a swap...Thanks Thwackey...
*Martha returns Thwackey to the Pokéball. Up next to bring out Dubwool, to help finish the fight.*

Dubwool: WOOL!

Martha: While the defense is still down, you go in with the headbutt! GO!
*Dubwool barrels towards Koffing and nails it with a strong headbutt, sending it back to Penelope in a daze.*

Martha: Perfect! Now, Guard Split!
*As Dubwool uses the move, it lowers its defenses to match Koffing’s.*

Oliver: What’s she doing? Guard Split’s a move that matches the defense and special defense of the opponent.

Eddie: Maybe it’s a bit of trolling? I dunno.

Oliver: Still, I know Martha’s got this.
*Martha chuckles for a moment as she continues the fight. Dubwool dodges another Sludge attack from Koffing.*

Martha: Heh heh, okay...now let's get serious...Double Kick Dubwool!
*Dubwool charges at Koffing and bucks the floating poison Pokémon twice, landing it on the ropes.*

Martha: Go for the Defense Curl!
*Dubwool raises its defense as Koffing lands a clear orb of energy at Dubwool in the form of Clear Smog, dealing some damage to the mountain goat Pokémon.*

Martha: Okay...take a moment to rest buddy. And then, go for another Headbutt!
*Dubwool shakes off the poison attack and crashes into Koffing with a mighty thud, knocking it out with a Critical hit.*

Martha: Nice hit! But judging from Oliver's fight, we're not done yet.

Penelope: Nope!
*Penelope returns Koffing to its Pokéball and next sends in Whirlipede.*

Martha: Hmm...okay. Start off with a Defense Curl!
*Dubwool raises its defense again, but takes damage from Whirlipede's Bug Bite attack.*

Martha: Alright, that's fine. Headbutt! Go ahead and do it!
*Dubwool crashes into Whirlipede head on, and was struggling against the centipede Pokémon as it was clashing against Dubwool by using Rollout. As the two backed off from each other, they traded damage from one another.*

Martha: Oh man...okay then. Dubwool, use Copycat!
*Dubwool briefly glows in an orange light. Confusing Oliver and Eddie, they watch closely, as Martha had got Dubwool to learn Rollout for itself. It was a rocky start, but Dubwool manages to learn Rollout. Fortunately, it does more than Martha anticipated.*

Oliver: C’mon Martha! You got this!

Martha: Okay, go for another Double kick. Then come back and rest for a moment.
*Dubwool attacks Whirlipede and it looked like it was about to go down. However, it scored a hit with Poison tail and as a result, poisoned Dubwool.*

Martha: Oh no, Dubwool!
*Dubwool was okay. For now it needed to focus on KOing Whirlipede before losing too much energy.*

Martha: Okay...focus...Dubwool, Go for the Rollout again!
*Dubwool goes to attack, and Whirlipede uses its movements to dodge, but Dubwool didn’t let the poison get in the way and took down Whirlipede with its next attack.*

Martha: Perfect! Nice work there Dubwool!

Penelope: Hmm…not half bad…but, your Dubwool’s looking worse for wear…do you think it can carry on?

Martha: Hmm...no, I'll leave him to rest for a bit...
*As Martha switches Dubwool out, Penelope sends out Seviper as her last Pokémon.*

Martha: Okay, this is pretty tough...Go Yamper!
*Martha's Yamper yaps at the poison snake Pokémon. Like in Oliver's battle, Martha was faced with a Dynamaxed Seviper.*

Martha: Okay, it's only fair that my Yamper does the same.
*One return later, and Martha had a stadium sized electric corgi by her side, indicated by the giant yap it let out.*

Martha: Heh, okay...Ready Yamper?
Dynamaxed Yamper: YAAAAAAAAP!

Martha: Go for a Charge Yamper!
*Yamper howls as it fizzles and sparks with electricity. The clouds above the stadium went dark as Seviper got obliterated by a giant thunder strike that consumed the stadium. Once the attack subsided, the ground in the stadium glowed a yellow colour with sparks coming from it.*

Martha: Heh, and now...Hit them with a Bite!
*After taking a Dynamaxed poison attack from Seviper, Yamper uses Crunch, and in return, a pair of energy beams, emitting dark energy flowed over to Seviper, and erupt in an explosion of darkness, in the form of Max Darkness.*

Martha: Okay, now to finish this...Yamper! Use Bite!
*Yamper took another Max Ooze attack from Seviper, but Yamper fired another devastating Max Darkness attack, and with a bright rose light, and a defeated hiss, the Seviper went down.*

Martha: Woohoo! Amazingly done team!
Penelope: Indeed! I must say, excellent work!

Martha: Heh, thanks Penelope. You also did pretty good too.

Penelope: Mmhmm! And so did your blonde friend in the white hoodie! He even had an evolution during his battle.

Martha: Really? That's great news!
Penelope: And now, I shall award you too, the Corrosion Badge.

Martha: Wow...thanks Penelope. You know...you remind me of a friend I have back over in my home region.

Penelope: Really now? I would love to meet her some day.

Martha: I'm sure you and Pamela would be perfect together. Heh, thanks again for the badge.

Penelope: No problem! Good luck with the rest of the Gym Challenge!
*Martha calls back her Yamper and heads back over to the others. Her all excited for the next badge she's won.*

Oliver: Heh, see? Told you that you could do it.

Martha: Heh, you had doubt in me?

Oliver: 'Course not.

Martha: Sometimes, you gotta confuse the enemy. Never let them know your next move.

Oliver: I know that one. ...Uhh...quick question. How are you in the cold?

Martha: Eh...not something I can deal with for a long time, but I'm okay with it...why?

Eddie: Apparently the next Gym's Ice type, so Oli' here wanted to make sure his girl was all wrapped up.

Oliver: Ed, shut up.

Martha: *chuckle* I'm fine. Really. I have a nice puffer jacket to help...As well as a certain Goodra that things hugs are a way to stay warm.

Oliver: W-What about that skirt...? Are you gonna be good in just that?

Martha: Oliver, please. I have more clothes in my backpack.

Oliver: Okay, okay. Just asking.

Martha: Hee hee hee...oh Oliver, if you like me, why don't ya just say so?
*Teasing Oliver, Martha walks off after giving him a wink and a smirk.*

Oliver: *blushes* ! U-Umm...

Eddie: Heh, I'll leave you two alone. See you at Frostborne City.
*Eddie takes off by himself to the next city, allowing the two to walk and talk together.*

Martha: *chuckle* What? You decided NOW to express how you feel? Or are you still afraid of what Eddie has to say? Hmm, Mr. Tough guy?

Oliver: Hey, you be around someone who's judgmental and holds onto things to say in front of friends.

Martha: What's wrong about him telling his friends that you have a crush on me? There's nothing wrong with that.

Oliver: Eh...He's...smug. When it comes to that kinda thing.

Martha: I know he is. I can tell...So, just embrace it. If you give him something to feed off of, like...Hiding your feelings towards me, then of course he's gonna jump on that. If you're open, then he'll think you're cool with telling the world about your crush.

Oliver: U-Umm...Yeah...right.

Martha: And besides...
*Martha leans in closer to Oliver to whisper in his ear.*

Martha: *whisper* I think it's adorable when you try to hide it...even if it's a terrible job.
*Catching him off guard, Martha gives Oliver a peck on the cheek. Oliver's face went bright red as he and Martha continued to walk together.*

Martha: Ah ha ha, hee hee hee, you always seem to crack me up.

Oliver: *blushes* Eheh...I try...

Martha: So...Next time Eddie bugs you, show him otherwise...alright?

Oliver: Y-Yes ma'am...hehe...

Martha: That's what I like to hear...and, to better make you feel comfortable...I have a little crush on you too...

Oliver: Y-You do...?

Martha: Yeah...Otherwise, why would I have kissed your cheek?

Oliver: F-Fair point.
Martha: *blushes* So don't act like a goober and be all shy about it.

Oliver: G-Goober…heh. Alright.
Martha: Hee hee, say. Maybe we can grab a bite to eat.

Oliver: A-Alright. Sure!

Martha: Okay, great. I think my team of Pokémon needs some energy to recharge after that fight.

Oliver: Alright then. We’ll get something for our Pokémon too.
*Martha and Oliver then finish their walk by stopping by a local cafe. Martha was feeding her Pokémon team some snacks to get their energy back. Oliver was doing the same with his Pokémon. During their chat, they used their Rotom-Phones to exchange details.*

Oliver: "Goodragirl490" huh? Yup. Definitely see the resemblance there. You really cleaned house at the Kalos Gyms, huh?

Martha: Heh, guilty...me and my Champion Goodra are responsible for that.

Oliver: Heh, I saw. Real good work.

Martha: Hey, Goodra's are strong when they need to be. And GG is proof enough.

Oliver: I know that one well.

Martha: And you've made a name for yourself too. "Goodra676". I see you and I share a favourite type of Pokémon.

Oliver: Heh, yeah. Eddie’s name is “DropDeadEd” if you wanna add him too.

Martha: I'll have to do that soon. *Nom* so, have you gotten any championships under your belt?

Oliver: Just one. From the Avalon region where me and Eddie went for a while. Uhh…a LOT happened there lemme tell ya.

Martha: Hmm...Care to tell me more about them?

Oliver: Sure. We encountered a LOT of legendary Pokémon, I got bit by a Charizard, and we saved the world a few times.

Martha: Wow...Sounds to me you've had a fun time...By curiosity, who was your champion for your team?

Oliver: As in my strongest Pokémon? Well uhh…
*Oliver’s Rotom-Phone shows Martha his team. A Pikachu, Snivy, Weavile, Lucario, Dragonite, and a Goodra.*

Martha: Oh wow...quite some strong Pokémon there. A Dragonite, Lucario, and the Iconic Pikachu too...and...I see you have a Goodra too.

Oliver: Yeah, I told you I had one.

Martha: Heh...they look real cute. But also they look like they mean business too.

Oliver: Weavile did especially. Since I fought it myself. Uhh, Gertrude wasn’t happy with that.

Martha: Gertrude...Who's that?
Oliver: A friend of mine who runs a Boutique.

Martha: Oh. Well, you still got yourself a dream team there. I bet they can beat anyone.

Oliver: They did for a while. Heh. And now I’m having an adventure in my home.

Martha: Don't you miss them? Like, I carry my Goodra everywhere, even if I don't use her. She's like my best friend.

Oliver: Hey, it’s what PC boxes are for. My friend Anthony runs a ranch where our past Pokémon are, so he can transfer them if need be.

Martha: Ah...heh...still though, GG is pretty special to me...and not JUST cause she's a Shiny Goodra.

Oliver: Hey I believe it. I’ve not encountered a Shiny myself yet.

Martha: You'll find one...Or, in my case, they'll find you. If you had a choice, what Shiny Pokémon would you want on your team?

Oliver: Hmm…Not sure.
Martha: Alright. Well surely you'd have a choice once your mind comes up to it.

Oliver: Heh, yeah. Thanks Martha.

Martha: No problem. Now...is there anything else you wanna talk about?

Oliver: Well, what are your friends like?

GG: Well, Penelope is a near perfect example of my friend Pamela. Who is also someone with science under their belt.

Oliver: I see. Is there any more?

Gloria: Is my boss at work, but she's pretty friendly too. She too owns a boutique and makes some wonderful clothes. And I work for her as her model...since...you know...there aren't a whole lot of options for clothes when you're as big as me.

Oliver: I dunno. There are some pretty big people in this region too.

Martha: Not from where I came from...
Oliver: Eh, you'd be surprised.

Martha: But yeah, I'm one of her best employees. And...I will admit, I have gotten my clothes from her most of the time.

Oliver: *blushes* Hey it's alright. You look good.

Martha: *blushes* Thanks...I'm not one who dresses all fancy and such. So it means a lot.

Oliver: Hey, no problem. I just wear whatever I want to as well, so it's fine.

Martha: Same here, I want clothes to best fit my personality. Big, soft, and warm.

Oliver: Heheh…yeah.

Martha: I mean, why wear them if they're not gonna be comfortable?

Oliver: Heh, fair enough. So...are you ready to get moving? We should catch up to Eddie before he gets too far ahead.

Martha: Sure. Let's continue on. That way I wouldn't be in the freezing temperatures for too long.

Oliver: Yeah, let's get a move on.
Martha: And hey, if Eddie bugs you again..Just let me know.

Oliver: Oh I don’t think I’ll have any trouble doing that…

Martha: Good to hear…
*The two exit the cafe and make their way back through the Wild Area to make their way over to Frostborne City. As they approached, they decided to do some farming, leveling up their Pokémon in anticipation of the next challenge ahead.*

Martha: Okay...who's up for some battle training here? Dubwool? Thwackey? Yamper?

Oliver: I'm gonna work on leveling up everyone. It does get a little unfair using my starter for everything.

Martha: Yeah, balance your team out Oliver. It will benefit you in the long haul.

Oliver: Oh, I know that one. Don’t worry about that. I’ve gotten a few evolutions going on from here.

Martha: Hmm...maybe I should Focus on my Yamper. He's in need of some power.

Oliver: I'm mainly just focusing on levels. Just watch yourself for certain Pokémon. Some of them are too overleveled for us right now.

Martha: Will do. And the same goes for you and Eddie...Wherever he is.

Oliver: I'm sure we'll run into 'im. Now let's get to work.

Martha: Yup! C'mon guys, you three need some more training.
*And with that, the two split off and get to work, encountering and defeating Pokémon where they could, leveling up their teams as much as they could. As Martha took a break, Yamper began glowing in blue light.*

Martha: Huh...oh! Hee hee, it's time for his Evolution! I wonder what he's gonna look like...
*As the light dissipated, a bigger skinny dog Pokémon stood before Martha. It let out a bark as Rotom-Phone floated in front of it and took a picture to relay the information about the Pokémon to Martha.*

Rotom-Phone: Congratulations Martha! Your Yamper evolved into Boltund! This Pokémon generates electricity and channels it into its legs to keep them going strong. Boltund can run nonstop for three full days. It sends electricity through its legs to boost their strength. Running at top speed, it easily breaks 50 mph.

Martha: Wow...heh. Aren't you a cute pup. Thanks Rotom-Phone.
*Boltund yaps before speeding over to Martha and licks her, panting in its new body.*

Martha: Whoa! Ha ha ha! Okay bud, I get that you're real excited. You might be competing against GG here.

Boltund: *Bark! bark!*

Martha: Alright big boy. Let's keep moving. Your friends wanna level up too.
*A little while after training together, Martha stopped to feed her Pokémon. And as they were all eating together along with her, the Milcery she caught picked up a strawberry sweet that Martha had. It took a bite and enjoyed it so much, it began twirling around with the treat in hand. And just like that, it began glowing in blue light just like Yamper did.*

Martha: Whoa, heh...you little sneak...what are you gonna evolve into?
*Once the light faded, a two toned pink Pokémon with strawberries on its head stood before Martha. Its body looked like swirls of icing.*

Rotom-Phone: An Alcremie!

Martha: Hee hee hee. You look so cute, I can just eat you up...and I'm a sucker for sweets...now, I won't actually do that.

Alcremie: C-Cremie…

Rotom-Phone: When it trusts a Trainer, it will treat them to berries it's decorated with cream.
When Alcremie is content, the cream it secretes from its hands becomes sweeter and richer.

Martha: Oh...it's alright there Alcremie, I'm not gonna hurt you. If anything, I'm gonna make you stronger.

Alcremie: Alcrem…

Rotom-Phone: Hmm…it appears to be shy. Looks like you got some work to do there Martha.

Martha: It's okay. I'm a patient trainer.
*After a while, Martha was able to get Alcremie welcomed and comfortable in the group. And that's when she saw what looked to be another contender for her team. A small, slightly rotund goat Pokémon. It was tending to an injured water Pokémon by the lake, and waved as it was sent on its way.*

Martha: Hmm...now what kind of Pokemon are you there fella?

Rotom-Phone: That is an Indeedee. These intelligent Pokémon touch horns with each other to share information between them. They diligently serve people and Pokémon so they can gather feelings of gratitude. The females are particularly good at babysitting.

Martha: *chuckle* Sounds an awful lot like me...lets see if I can add another to our roster.
*The Indeedee hears Martha and turns around to face her. A battle had begun.*

Martha: Oh, here we go! Let's go Boltund!
*With a flair of spin, Martha tossed out a pokéball. Boltund bounds out with a spark.*

Boltund: Boooolt!

Indeedee: In...deee!
*Indeedee fires a beam of swirling energy which changes colour constantly. It hit Boltund for a fair bit of damage.*

Martha: Use Spark Boltund! Then follow up with a Bite!
*Boltund uses Spark to damage Indeedee, stunning it, before following up with a Crunch, dealing massive damage to it.*

Martha: Now, go for a swift Bite again!
*Before Boltund could land another Bite, Indeedee uses Disarming Voice, letting out a high pitched cry, sending Boltund backwards.*

Martha: Whoa...okay, hmm...let's take this moment to think. Focus up Boltund!
*Boltund snarls and starts sparking, and Indeedee responds by firing another swirly multicoloured beam at Boltund.*

Martha: Dodge! And go for another Bite attempt!
*Boltund bounds over the attack and bites on Indeedee, knocking it down, almost to the point of fainting. This was Martha’s shot for a Pokéball throw. Like before, Martha pitches the Pokéball with a spin like it was a baseball. It corkscrews towards the Indeedee before capturing it.*

Martha: Yes! Another one, in the bag! Or should I say...ball.
*The ball absorbs Indeedee in a red light as it shuts tight. One roll, two rolls…Click! Indeedee was caught!*

Martha: Nice! Great work Boltund!

Boltund: Bark Bark!
*The day goes by and Oliver and Martha meet up to catch up.*

Martha: Hey there Oliver! Guess what...? I just caught myself an Indeedee!

Oliver: Cool! I got some more evolutions under my belt!
Martha: Oh really? Who've you gotten to evolve?

Oliver: Lemme show you!
*Oliver throws multiple Pokéballs into the air and out come Raboot, Thievul, Boltund, and an Eldegoss.*

Martha: Whoa...heh, nice team you're building there Oliver...Hmm, wonder what Eddie has done. Did he catch anything?

Oliver: I haven’t seen him. I guess that’s a sign we should hurry up.

Martha: Right. Well, let's get a move on. Unless having him brag about him being quicker than us is something you want?

Oliver: Of course not! …Hmm…actually…he’s a sore winner…but, how’s about a quick battle?

Martha: Hmm...heh, I don't mind that at all.
Oliver: Heh, alright. Let’s get started.

Martha: Remember, this is just practice.
Oliver: I know. I just get fired up with battles.

Martha: Okay...let's go Boltund!
*Tossing out her Pokéball, Martha summons Boltund for their battle.*

Martha: Who do you choose, Oliver?

Oliver: Heh, that’s easy. Get ready…

(To be continued…)

Oliver and Penelope belong to me.

Eddie and the Artist Trainer belong to Projones-FTW

Martha belongs to goodragirl490

Smeargle, Dubwool, Ariados, Yamper, Raboot, Koffing, Whirlipede, Seviper, Alcremie, Indeedee, and Boltund belong to Gamefreak and Nintendo.