Shine Like Gold [Underground Gauntlet][F]

[Morrigan]

Leaving the underground Rocket base with a heavy sigh, Sharada remained in a cramped doorway as her eyes stared up at the dark night sky, which had been overcome by rain clouds. Turning her head to the side, she had managed to find a black umbrella back in her squadron area, pinching it without questioning who it might've belonged to. Holding it out into the heavy rain, she clicked it open and pushed into place before stepping out onto the damp pavement wearily, a cold wind brushing past her face and causing her to shudder. Looking ahead, her icy blue eyes traced the street, which had been lit up with a faint glow by multiple lamp posts. Although she knew deep down it probably wouldn't make the slightest bit of difference, Sharada had decided to investigate a rumoured Gauntlet challenge that was held in the Underground of the city. Hoping it would draw a bit of attention to her name, as a trainer and a member of Team Rocket, she figured that it would also be a good test to see how far her progression as a trainer had become. Recently overcome with guilt upon witnessing a murder of a Sneasel's mother, the undercover agent had begun doubting her abilities altogether. With the way she was now, she needed to do something to bring her emotions back up a level, otherwise she'd be stuck in a depressive state for a long time to come.

Walking towards the Underground entrance with one hand on her umbrella handle and the other delved into her open jacket pocket, she was atleast pleased with the fact that there wasn't a single soul in sight. With the time being quite late into the night and accompanied by the rain, she hoped that she wouldn't bump into anyone, as the large red R stamped across her clothing would likely attract unneeded attention. As each foot pushed against the pavement, she went over possible Pokemon to use in her mind but eventually figured that there was no use over thinking it until she sized up her opponents anyway. Coming across a familiar entrance, Sharada hurried forth, closing her umbrella as she made it into safety from the pouring rain. Shaking the droplets off her umbrella as she strolled cautiously down the steps, her eyes glanced nervously around. The Underground was much creepier at night time with all the shops shut and lack of trainers. Needing to keep on her toes, the brunette looked left and right at the shadows which hung from the walls before moving on. Her destination being that of a simple corridor, as she reached the end she noticed a fire escape door, it conveniently being unlocked. Gulping, she couldn't deny that she was nervous. If this rumours were true, there were plenty of unsanitary folk and one wrong move could leave her being a cornered mouse.

Getting her act together with a hefty inhale and a rolling of her shoulders, the brunette stepped through the door and into another dark corridor. Each and every step of her heeled boots echoed across the walls, her eyes and ears keeping alert for any signs of life. Almost tumbling head first down another set of stairs, the brunette walked to the wall, holding a hand out to steady herself as she began to descend the steps. Down below, a faint light glowed, followed by the mumblings of people until finally, everything came into view. Pausing on the stairs, Sharada looked over the banister at what was below her, remaining hidden in the shadows as the people below scurried about in preparation of the gauntlet. To her surprise, they were mostly work men, ranging from the typical business man to an elderly janitor. She figured that many of them were merely spectators although but she had to admit, she never considered how many of them she would need to actually face. Steadying her breath, her feet once again began to descend the stairs until she became merged with the crowd that was beginning to form around a worn down ring. Pushing her way through the different men, it was clearly a place a young female such as Sharada shouldn't be found in.

Finally finding a space which hadn't been taken, she took a moment to catch her breath before glancing around as if trying to get her bearings on the area. The room itself was simple, dark and dank with the stench of sweat rising up to the low ceiling. A lone worn down boxing ring like set up sat in the centre, obviously where the battles were taking place. Blinking, she oddly didn't feel as scared now that she was in the thick of it. Maybe because it reminded her of all the horrible sailor drinking sessions she had to occasionally tag along with her father to back in Hoenn, that or it reminded her of a more recent time of watching Garcian from Team Rocket wrestle. Taking a step forward, she decided to be brave and approached a lone worker who was crouching on the floor. "Excuse me." She stated bluntly, hoping to get his attention. "I want to sign up to the Gauntlet. Who do I talk to?"

[Tiki]

"I want to sign up to the Gauntlet. Who do I talk to?" Sharada's voice traveled loudly throughout the room, and the environment was not responsive at first. But a second later, a bright light in the centre combat area lit up in the ceiling, and other smaller lights lit up around the edges of the room. The spectators, visitors, and regulars of the room could be seen clearly now. There were the typical salarymen, janitors, workers, doctors, and even artist. Whether they were from top companies (top cleaning companies?) or famous artists would be up to debate.

A janitor, with his work clothes still on, approached the eager challenger, greeted. "Ma'am, so you're here for the Underground Gauntlet Challenge? You can just walk up to the centre field to the side that has a sign saying "Challenger". Then the Gauntlet founding members will challenge you." He spoke as he pointed to the centre battlefield, the "Challenger" sign, and another sign restating the rule. "Don't try to cheat with more than three Pokemon though, we have enough undercover members here to kick you out should you try to pull something funny," he added, and then disappeared to one of the wall couches, and munching on some snack. He still smell of some sweat and some common cleaning chemicals, thankfully it wasn't stinky!

As the girl was walking toward the battle, a young-looking man with his repairman clothes and hat was already on the stage. He was quite handsome under the light, and with how the buttoned up outfit and pants and boots accentuates his body build, which would require him to have some degree of physical capabilities for handling his work. "Evening, young lady! You should know the rules, so here I go first with my Electabuzz. You may go first with your move though."

His Electabuzz, which was already on the field, rubbed her palms and some sparks came out. The Pokemon smiled politely to greet Sharada as well.

---

Worker Robert sent out his (Level 20) Electabuzz, Energizer!

OOC: addicted to OOC /jk
ok so i had never done an Underground Gauntlet thread before and idk if any other people had done it before, but the rule "All Pokémon participating in the gauntlet must be level 30 or less." means BEFORE the first battle right? so a Pokemon that got enough exp to level 31 in the middle of the gauntlet won't be disqualified?

#dumb question sorry

and I don't think it should be raining underground LOL

[Morrigan]

As the janitor turned and greeted her, Sharada remained tense as she was unsure how this underground group would take having a Rocket in their midst. The red R blazed across her chest, heavily contrasted with the black and grey she wore. There was no chance that he could've missed it unless he was blind but that wasn't the case either. Receiving no harsh words, the gentleman instead answered her question, the brunette's eyes flicking towards the challenger's corner. Clearly this was a shady place if they allowed Team Rocket grunts to mingle with them, some of these workers starting to appear less normal or innocent that she first thought. "I see." She replied, turning back to face him as he further explained how it worked and warned her of what happens to cheaters. A bit apprehensive in case her team was a little overpowered, she shrugged off this worry as currently, they complied with the rules. "I understand, I'll head over there now." Noticing he had taken a seat and began munching on some snacks, she waved a loosely in the air, "Be sure to sit back, relax and watch because I am going to win." Trying to come across as overly confident, it was a totally false feeling but she knew this was the mind set she had to literally force herself into at this point. Otherwise, everyone would just walk all over her.

Approaching the stage area, Sharada peered upward as the dim lights grew in intensity on her arrival, the surrounding area and faces that swarmed it becoming a bit clearer. Not interested in crowd, the brunette instead stood in the challengers spot, folding her arms and looking on moodily as the crowd settled, the challenge about to being. Blinking at the sight ahead of her, the female Rocket examined her first opponent and truthfully, even she felt that he was good looking. Unfortunately being the type of girl who becomes infatuated at first sight of a handsome man, she tried to play off the fact that he took her fancy, darting her gaze elsewhere as his own line of sight met with hers. Cooling herself down, she dug her nails into her arms, listening as he introduced himself as her first opponent. Learning this, she put any unnecessary emotions to one side and finally acknowledged him. Once again, he wasn't put off by the sight of a Rocket so she figured they were a common sight down here. "How kind of you." Sharada replied back as she looked to the friendly Electabuzz.

Not smiling back at either of them, she instead ran a hand over a Pokeball as she tried to decide who to use first. "I could go straight in with Bellatrix but that feels a bit harsh. I need to disarm them into thinking I'm not all that before sending in the big guns." With her thought process making her look like a bit of an idiot as she merely stood there, the brunette finally chose a Pokeball and held it forward. "For my first choice, I choose--" Tossing the ball forward, it erupted into a bright light, forming into the shape of a small, red simian, "Darumaka." Looking around at all the faces, Umaro bounce gleefully on the spot, waving out cutely to the crowd and acting the complete opposite in comparison to his aloof trainer. It may have seemed odd that she had such an energetic Pokemon in the first place. Aware that Umaro might get hit as she gave the Electabuzz a scrutinising stare, she was still sure she could win with her choice. "Umaro, use Hammer Arm!" She ordered clearly, Umaro turning only to realise he was actually in a battle and ran joyfully towards the electric type.

OOC: No, it isn't a dumb question at all, I was thinking about that too. I think as long as it is Level 30 before the start, it should still qualify, it's just using the level barrier to your advantage, I guess? *shrugs* You can grind right up to the maximum level for Gym Leaders so I guess it is the same for other quests too, its just if you choose to do it or not. Also, I dont think there has been a Gauntlet thread before either so I am just as lost and lol it is fine, it is raining outside, not indoors, unless there are holes in the ceiling.

[The REAL Joey]

Sizing up Sharada's choice of Pokemon, the workman appeared to be undaunted by its appearance. "Bizarre little thing. I may not know much about it but i'm certain the fighting style of my Electabuzz will leave you shocked. Fearsome offence and lightning speed make for a deadly combo. This is the sorta thrill seeking you can only get in these white knuckle tournaments!!" Flipping his spanner in his hand up and down a few times, he eventually grasped it tightly as he thrust it forward, the tip of the spanner know pointing directly at Sharada. Although they had come across as somewhat amiable, as the battle itself sped onwards, the real side to this duo became apparent. Day in and day out, they numbed themselves to deal with the monotony of life itself. But here, in the underground gauntlet, they could drop their charades and just let loose without having to worrying about the consequences.

The once friendly demeanour of the Electabuzz now changing, it's body sparked with numerous surges of electricity coursing through its being. "I may be the first step on the ladder but i'm gonna show ya this isn't somethin' you can take as a joke!" Flipping it up once more and grabbing his tool with expert dexterity, he thrust the tip forward as he commanded his move. "Electabuzz! Shock the livin' daylights outta 'em with Thunderbolt!" Letting out a confirmation in the form of a growl, the Electabuzz sparked itself even further, at this point displaying an incredible light show as the underground arena began to light up with all the energy. Buzzing with ferocity, the Electabuzz raised an arm and manifested a thunder bolt like spear in its grip. With a deft aim, the Pokemon threw it forward as a series of electric based damage assaulted Sharada's poor Umaro. Jolting erratically as the attack unrelented, the Pokemon was eventually blasted off to the side of a wall as the incessant strike finished. It was a devastating blow to the say the least.

"How do you like that, huh?! Bet that's somethin' the don't teach you in Team Rocket." Jeered the worker confidently as he admired his Pokemon's handiwork. "You wanna get tough, you gotta do these street fights. Not these boring league challenges that the government is so adamant on investing in, pah." Obviously something of a chip on his shoulder, the worker was taken off guard as diminutive little Umaro wriggled his arms and feet defiantly before hopping back up. There was no doubt he had suffered some serious damage but at the end of the day, he was still able to send. The battle would drag on regardless. "Huh. Whaddya know. The little daruma doll is still good for more. I'll let Electabuzz take this hit on the chin and we can settle this in round two!" His cockiness getting ahead of him, nothing could quite prepare Robert for what would happen next.

A deft attacker with his fist based moves, it would be to the surprise of many just how much knock out power the little simian held within his strikes. Time and time again had Pokemon fallen victim from the sheer overwhelming power with little to no resistance from having lowered their guard. What followed was a textbook example of why Umaro should never be taken lightly. Hustling up with a little pitter patter of his feet, Umaro went flying forwards and clenching his tiny little fist tightly, struck like a bludgeoning hammer as he socked the Electabuzz right in the stomach. Recoiling forward with a look of sheer terror in its face, it was suffice to say the wind was knocked completely from its sails. So to was the impact on Robert who had never seen anything like that before. "AAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIYEEEEEEEEEEE?! WHAT THE HELL IS THAT?!" He quaked, falling flat on his butt as he noted his Pokemon had been knocked out with a decisive hit.

"You gotta be kidding me...?! That hit like a freight train!!"



Gauntlet Battle

---

Robert's Electabuzz | ♀ | Level 20 |
Health : 0% (0/62 HP)
Status : KO'd
...

Umaro | ♂ | Level 28 |
Health : 22% (19/85 HP)
Status : Normal; Speed -1
Stop! Hammer time!

---

Weather status: Normal

---

Victory!

---

Your Darumaka fought courageously, gained 1500 experience and levelled up!
Umaro grew to Level 29!
Umaro also gained +1 Happiness.


Your Jigglypuff observed brilliantly and has levelled up!
It went up by 1 level and is now Level 13 thanks to Exp. Share!!
Fujiko would like to learn the move Disable.
Delete a move so that Disable can be learnt?

---

Worker Robert was defeated!

Slowly recovering to his feet, Robert recalled his unconscious Electabuzz and spluttered excitedly. "Y-Y-You may just turn this challenge on its head! I can't wait to see what you do next!" The excitement clear in his expression, it was obvious that fights like these were the main reason why this gauntlet was set up in the first place. This was the big leagues. Stepping forward from the defender's corner, a rather straight laced businessman took the spot. Balancing his brief case on his leg, whilst trying to wrap up his phone call, he fumbled about for his Pokeball. "Yes sir. Mhm. Of course. No certainly. I understand. 0800 hours sharp. It's my pleasure sir. Ok sir. Not a problem sir. Have a good evening sir." As the phonecall came to an end, the man rather exasperatedly turned off his mobile and took on a completely different aura.

"Thought the idiot would never shut up." Sighing in a defeated manner, he finally found his Pokeball. "It's one thing to balance that dead end job but when it starts cutting in to how I unwind..." A rather unsavoury grin now on his face, he clenched his Pokeball tightly and undid his tie a fraction. "So... From what I managed to see, you got a little terror at hand. Good thing Rob broke it down slightly. It hits like crazy but I dunno how good it'll be as fatigued as that. You better be ready because round 2 is coming up!" Shooting forward his Pokeball, he revealed a fast paced Ninjask flittering to and from the side of battle corner. "Although I bet if that thing is anything to go by, your other two choices are just as hard hitting. Heh. Least i'm assured i'll be getting my kicks."



Trainer Encounter

---

Clerk Pete steps up to the plate!


He orders forth Ninjask (Level 21)
Please select a Pokemon for battle.

[Morrigan]

Noticing that her opponent was examining her choice of Pokemon from afar, the brunette wasn't all too surprised that he was unaware of what her Pokemon even was. Before the Unova Festival, even she had no idea that such a Pokemon existed. But if anything, she was pleased it did. Although a bit too energetic when it came to keeping up her aloof attitude, Umaro was one partner who never questioned or doubted her, remaining at her side through thick and thin. Maybe due to his childish nature but whenever Umaro was out, she always felt safe and reassured. Easily one of her more prized friends, yet loving them all equally, she was still unsure about using him in this particular fight. Her own eyes leering at the Electabuzz, Sharada knew that this was going to be tricky. Not just the fact that electric types made her quiver at the knees in anxiety but the fact that she looked fierce. Trying to loosen up some as Rob made some conversation, she tried her best to chat back whilst remaining reserved. "Show me this fighting style of yours, I'm here for a bit of thrill seeking myself." Trying to force a cocky smile as he pointed the tip of his spanner towards her, the girl could feel her body tense at the manic sound of crackling electricity.

Gulping, one of her feet slid back slightly, the thick walls reverberating the sound of thunder which flickered off of the Electabuzz's body. Having willing taught her own Pokemon a few electric type moves in the past, she couldn't deny her dislike for the particular types. Maybe it was her affinity with water or being on a ship in the middle of the endless ocean whilst surrounding by violent storms. Whatever the reason, the sight and sound always caused her to tense up. A sweat drop rolling down the side of her face, she tried to look more angered than frightened but her expression was coming across as uncomfortable, "Who said anything about jokes? C'mon and show me what you're made of!" Egging him on to try and get this over with, she couldn't help but instinctively cover her head with her arms as an incredibly powerful bolt of lightning formed and struck Umaro. Gritting her teeth and clenching her eyes, it took everything and more within Sharada to refrain from screaming out in fear as the bolt landed so close by. Needing to be strong for Umaro too, she hesitantly peered up just in time to see the Darumaka writhing on the floor.

Eyes widening as his little legs flailed in the air, it was clear from her expression that she knew she had made a wrong move. "D-Dammit! Why did I use Umaro?! Tsk... It's what I get for trying to be nice. I should'a used Bellatrix." Cursing in the back of her mind, it wasn't long until Umaro actually pulled himself back up to his own feet. Clearly injured, he did an excellent job at masking the damage, a slight skip and hop still apparent in his demeanour. It was just as she was thinking earlier on, Umaro very rarely let her down. "You are such a gentleman. But no, really. A second round isn't necessary." Flicking her hair to the side and acting almost snooty with her remark, it was good that Umaro was able to follow through with his trainers words by landing an even more devastating attack of his own. With a single strike the opponent's Electabuzz was down and out, the underground filling with the confused cries of her foe. Loosening her shoulders as Rob fell to the floor, Sharada looked to Umaro with her large eyes. Her face may not have been smiling but deep down, she was truly over joyed with the outcome.

Nodding curtly as Rob withdrew his Pokemon, her lips parted, wanting to reply to something he had said earlier. "I may be a Rocket but even I need more of a thrill sometimes. These poncy, goody-goody trainers do nothing for me." Turning her head with a bit of a grumble, she slowly looked back to him from the corner of her eye, mouth curling into a smile ever so slightly, "But you are tough. I'd be uncomfortable facing your whole team." Taking note of the other Pokeballs on his possession, she nodded once more as he left the ring, another man stepping up for the next round. Noticing he was finishing off a phonecall whilst trying to find his Pokeball, she listened but turned her head slightly and spoke out to a bystander. "I can heal, right?" She questioned calmly and quietly, rustling through her belongings as she finally got the ok. Pulling something out of her jacket pocket, Sharada peered up to the suited business man to acknowledge that she was ready. Listening to his words, she rolled her eyes, also relieved that she was able to squeeze her way from her own boss. "I hear you on that. Win or lose, let's do a bit of unwinding, eh?" Becoming a bit less uptight after conversing with Rob, perhaps this whole underground gauntlet thing wasn't going to be too bad. She just hoped that there weren't any familiar Rockets watching from the shadows.

With a flick of his hand, the clerk sent forth his own Pokemon, the sight causing Sharada to regain her frown. Being from Hoenn, Sharada immediately knew that this Pokemon was a Ninjask. It had incredible speed and no matter what, would be able to out run any of her choices. Becoming contemplative once again, she looked down to the item in her hand before raising her head, "I can tell you're going to be a tricky one." She noted, moving down to her knee and whistling once to get Umaro's attention. Waddling weakly over to his trainers whilst wearing his usual, dopey smile, Sharada unscrewed the cap of a bottle and handed a drink to her partner, "Drink this." Holding the soda in his hands, the fiery simian took a sip, eyes bursting open as the fizzy drink slid down his throat. Enjoying the texture and taste, he hurriedly gulped it down, gasping happily as his body became refreshed. Bouncing on the spot and ready to go again, Sharada nodded, ushering Umaro back into the fight. Standing back to her feet, she still didn't feel too happy with this and the uncertainty was clear. "I figured this gauntlet could smarten Darumaka up some so I'll stick with him again... I haven't been disappointed yet, don't let me down." Pointing once again, she had a deep feeling of dread with how this next round would turn out, "Umaro, use Fire Punch!"

OOC: Used x1 Soda Pop (Self-updated) and then Darumaka with Fire Punch.

[Tiki]

"I can heal, right?" the bystander nodded and muttered a simple "Yeah".

The clerk added his own comment, "Yes, I really need to unwind from my stress. I don't really care if you're a Rocket though. If it's a Pokemon battle, then it's a battle. And I can trust you not to run away with my Pokemon." He joked, apparently he's up to date with recent and current Rocket activities that he could read on the news. "Hm, I guess I'll get my Pokemon pump up for this battle. It's like the morning coffee for another work day. Ninjask, Sword Dance!"

Pete snickered when Sharada noted the speed of his Ninjask. "Well, being a salesman I do need some tricks for some tricky clients. Now I practice tricks with my Pokemon too. In fact, let me show you a trick! Ninjask, Protect!"

The Rocket's opponent was glad to have this battle to lighten up his work stress, and at least he wasn't relieving his stress by eating a harmful lots or alleviating with chemicals. The Ninjask hastily formed a barrier for itself, as a sphere wrapped around it. Then, Umaro hopped and tried for a fire punch, with his fist covered in an intense fire. However, the fire punch only broke the "Protect" barrier sphere, leaving the Ninjask unharmed, but open for next attack again.

"What do you think?" he spoke giddily. "It's kind of like companies hiring lawyers to protect themselves! You may think everything I talk is making business or work puns, but it's kind of the same. We work, we play, we rest hard!"

---

Clerk Pete's Ninjask- Level 21
63/63
Status: Protect, Speed +1, Attack +2
Used a successful Sword Dance!
Used a successful Protect!
Speed Boost increased speed!

Sharada's Umaro- Level 29
79/88
Status: Normal
Umaro drank Soda Pop!
Fire Punch failed.

[Morrigan]

Now that Umaro had been healed, that was at least one worry off of Sharada's shoulders. Full of life once again, he chuckled on the spot, bouncing up and down and waving his arms about if it dancing with his recovered energy. Glancing down to the empty bottle in her hand, the brunette raised her eyebrows as she pondered to herself, "If I drank one of these, would I get that energetic?... Best not think about it." Shaking her head from side to side, she placed the empty bottle back in with her belongings, so not to litter and turned back to the battle at hand. The next problem was this Ninjask and being able to land a clean hit. Trying to keep up with it's erratic movements, Sharada struggled to stay focused on it for too long, the fast beating of it's wings being almost mesmerising as it jolted around in different directions. Hearing Pete's comment was enough to distract her, as she raised her hands innocently in a surrendering manner. "As much as I'd like to, I'm on a strictly no-stealing policy tonight. Besides. You are strong one on one, my future wouldn't look very bright if you came at me all at once." Laughing slightly at the vision of this, she lowered her hands back down and rested them casually in her jacket pockets. "Nah. Tonight, it's all about battling. I want to see how far I can get through the best Goldenrod has to offer."

Upon saying this, his first order was made. Comparing his buffing attack to that of morning coffee, Sharada laughed once, almost in disbelief, as the Ninjask began to sharpen itself up. With it's attack now raised, she felt even more uneasy. Speedy with a higher attack? It could only spell out something which wasn't going to end all too well for her. For now, Sharada had to put her belief in Umaro. He had been healed and she had several other items but it was just the case of waiting for him to land a hit. This becoming even harder at Pete's second command. "What?!" She growled angrily under her breath as the Ninjask created some sort of protective barrier around it. Parting her lips to call Umaro to hold back, it was far too late. Jumping forward with his flaming fists of fury, he lunged forward only to be forced backward by the protective casing around the Ninjask. Eyes leering at the Pokemon, the barrier soon dispersed as the turn ended. "I see how it is." Sharada suddenly chimed in, trying to calm back down after momentarily losing her cool. Straightening her back whilst adjusting her hair, she listened more to Pete's punny words before shrugging her shoulders nonchalantly. "There's not much I can do at this point. You well and truly have me good."

Hoping to lure him into a false sense of victory, it wasn't clear on if she was being serious or sarcastic. "It's a good strategy but it depends on how long Ninjask can do it for." Becoming a bit more chatty, she continued, her expression blank as she pointed to the Ninjask, "Darumaka keeps attacking, Ninjask keeps protecting. Only, the more it defends, the more likely it is to slip up. Eventually." Her vacant expression turning into that of a grin, she folded her arms, "If being in Team Rocket has taught me anything, it's patience. Your target ain't always going to appear right before your very eyes. Sometimes, you just gotta wait it out. I don't need to swap Darumaka out cause as soon as you decide to let your guard down, I'll have you right where I want you." Smiling a bit more warmly, she was quickly coming across as cocky or over confident, almost as if wanting him to loose his cool and attack her so she could get a shot. "But hey, this is all in good fun. Way better than your average trainer. My expectations have already been met since I'd had to heal already." Pausing, she almost forgot to order her attack, she hated being distracted with chatter, "Umaro, persist with Fire Punch!"

OOC: Umaro is level 29 so should be 79/88 I think.

[Tiki]

Even though the Ninjask had tricks up its sleeve like Sword Dance to sharply boosting its attack, or its ability of Speed Boost to gradually heighten its speed, it was still no match to Sharada's well-trained Umaro. The Darumaka likely had more experiences than the salaryman's amount of morning coffee cups, refill included. Thinking that his Ninjask was ready, and actually underestimating Sharada's fire type, Pete switched up from defense to an offense, "You're just gonna keep trying huh? Well, I'm ready. Ninjask, use X-Scissor!"

The bug speedily fluttered over, and swiped the little fire type with its sharp legs/arms(?). Even though it was buffed earlier, the attack was sadly ineffective. In return, the little Umaro hopped upward with one arm covered entirely in flames, and knocked out the Ninjask in one hit.

"Very well, Miss Rocket!" the man returned his Pokemon and congratulated her. "I shall continue watching on the side and eat up and watch your battle. And then I'll have to prepare for my 8 am appointment tomorrow. I hope you enjoy yourself here."

---

Clerk Pete's Ninjask- Level 21
0/63
Status: Speed +1, Attack +2
Used a successful but ineffective X-Scissor!

Sharada's Umaro- Level 29
54/88
Status: Normal
Fire Punch OHKO!

---

Umaro gained 1050 (+525 Lucky Egg Boosted) for defeating Ninjask!
(1639/2611) to Level 30!
He gained 1 happiness! Now +11!


Fujiko gained 1 level with Exp share! Now level 14!
She gained 1 happiness, now +10!

---

After the second trainer was gone, the opponent side was quickly replaced by another one. This time, a foreigner(?), or just an old man with strange genes for his moustache and sideburns, took over the next phase of battle.

"Hello, Madam!" he greeted with a smile. "Words travel fast in this room after the first two battles that you're a Rocket. But don't worry. I have trouble of my own being only a regional known artist. It's hard to pay the bills when your arts don't sell for as high as another guy, ya know?"

"But," he paused himself. "I'm here to take my stress away--" He put on a cigar and lit it up. Not that this room had a cigar restriction, as some others in the room were doing it. Thank Goldenrod for the excellent air ventilation though, otherwise the room would smells like smoke. "We have a show, Mr. Mime!" He tossed a Pokeball in the air, releasing the psychic Pokemon.

---

Artist Pierre sent out his (Level 22) Mr. Mime!

OOC:
omg, one of these trainers have to be like, the least stressful person... maybe XD

[Morrigan]

Lifting a hand to her chin to try and look contemplative on how the next round would turn out, she stretched her fingers to cover her lips, hiding a subtle smile. Maybe he wasn't the patient type or maybe she had shaken him up but either way, he fell right into her trap. As soon as he uttered his move, Sharada stood back, her eyes watching as Umaro took the hit from the Ninjask well, despite it boosting it's attack power previously. Having witnessed her partners Fire Punch's numerous times in the past, this one was of no exception when it came to boasting his mighty strength. Striking the bug down in a clean hit, Sharada lowered her hand from her face and instead lifted it into the air, bidding the salesman a goodbye. "I hope you got a thrill you were looking for from battling me." She said in a drab tone, making it uncertain to if she was being serious or sarcastic at this point. She herself, was starting to ascend. After having such bad luck and being a part of a recent death, this was just what she needed to take her mind off of things. The gauntlet had gotten off to a rocky start but she was beginning to feel much better, in her Pokemon and herself.

Trying not to fall too deep into thought, Sharada looked stunned at the next person who stepped up. Before, her opponents had been young men so having someone a bit more elderly caught her off guard. Usually very respectful to older people, considering most of her teenage life was spent with her grandparents, she was unsure how to react. "Good evening." She cautiously responded, not quite looking him in the eye but still trying to look in his direction. From the look of his clothes, he was an artist of some sort. But his most interesting asset was the large, bristly moustache. Peering up a little more, he appeared a lot calmer than the previous people and he didn't show disgust despite her being a Rocket. She picked up on his choice of work, "An artist? Surely work can't be that bad that you feel the need to partake in an underground fight club." Tilting her head to the side curiously as he explained, she nodded her head slowly, "I see... So it is hard competition with other artists." As he struck up a cigar, the smell of smoke which quickly entered her nostrils didn't bother her in the slightest. After hanging around Tobias and even smoking herself ocassionally, it was something that the brunette was more than used to.

The real problem was the opponent. "A Mr. Mime? Not often you see one of those." She mumbled audibly, clearly she wasn't expecting a Pokemon like this. Looking down to Darumaka, she decided it would be best to recall him for now, "Umaro, sit this one out." she ordered. Not really bothered about fighting or not, the red simian chuckled cheekily and plodded back to Sharada's side, hopping from one leg to the other as she thought about who to use next. "Can't you sit still for five minutes?" Sharada questioned upon witnessing the creature waving it's arms around in time with his leg movements. Rolling her eyes, she held a Pokeball forward, "My second choice... Nidoqueen!" With a simple toss, the ball erupted, followed by a deafening roar as Bellatrix made her appearance known to all. Stomping her mighty foot to the ground, the plated Pokemon glared threateningly down at the Mime, clearly not happy with how pink it was, instantly making her needlessly angry. "Use Earthquake, Bellatrix!" Roaring once more, the behemoth moved into action.

[The REAL Joey]

Smoke billowing from the chubby cigar he had alight in his mouth, it seemed as if this artist had anything BUT stress to deal with. Certainly he had said his art never got the proper reward it deserved but he seemed remarkably chilled given he had just pulled out a pricey looking cigar. If anything, with his presence in the gauntlet, was he trying to capture inspiration to start on his masterpiece, his pièce de résistance. His choice of Pokemon was certainly apt. As the rather unsettling Mr.Mime made known his presence, it was almost as if Pierre had painted a Picasso and had it spring to life. "Ohohohoho, I see my Mr.Mime has you flustered. No worries, mon cherie. I'll promise to go easy. I may struggle as an artist but battling was something I never had to put much effort in. I'm afraid you'll be heading out after this tête a tête." His Mr.Mime folded its arms and let out a laugh of its own as trainer and Pokemon mimicked one another perfectly.

In fact, their raucous laughter only filled the gauntlet even louder as Umaro was put on the substitute bench to sit this fight out. Pierre had observed the previous battles and had already taken measure of the Pokemon's strength. "Oh tut tut. I was hoping to fight that little cannonball. He hits hard, his strikes bring forth very bold, vivid colours. In fact... Inspiration may have struck! But as an artist, one must be observant. I couldn't help but pick up on his attacks being a little haphazard. With my Mr.Mime, he would have simply sprung up a barrier and made sure the attacks would bounce off. You can have all the strength in the world but what good is it if you can't hit at what you're aiming for?" His mouth flowing readily with words, it appeared to be some sort of defence mechanism. He had banked so heavily on Umaro staying in that the presence of another Pokemon had thrown a spanner in the works. And not just any spanner. As Bellatrix was summoned forth and made a mighty stomp that reverberated throughout the gauntlet room, the artist's mouth dropped wide open in sync with his Pokemon's. The cigar falling with a thud to the floor.

"Zut alors...!!"

Despite his Pokemon's quirkiness, Sharada clearly had this one in the bag from the very start. Wasting no time in laying waste to the creepy mime, Bellatrix started jumping up and down aggressively with incessant successions. Unable to withstand the might of the Nidoqueen, the room began to quake at the very action of her move. As the spectators and participants all began to cling onto something for dear life. Pierre fell back onto his rear as a sudden upheaval of the ground in front of it struck up and made a sickening crunch as it jammed right into Mr.Mime's jaw, knocking him cold out in the process. It was an outright one hit KO! Stopping as she could see the battle had been decided, Bellatrix let out a snort at the pathetic attempt by her opponent. "Sacre bleu!" Exclaimed Pierre, his artist's hat now slipping off his head. If he had entered this to unwind his stress, he had chosen a bad day to do so.



Gauntlet Battle

---

Pierre's Mr.Mime | ♂ | Level 22 |
Health : 0% (0/56 HP)
Status : OHKO'd
...

Bellatrix | ♀ | Level 30 |
Health : 100% (103/103 HP)
Status : Normal
Freaky little clown

---

Weather status: Normal

---

Victory!

---

Your Nidoqueen fought courageously, gained 1150 experience!
Bellatrix also gained +1 Happiness.


Your Jigglypuff observed brilliantly and has levelled up!
It went up by 1 level and is now Level 15 thanks to Exp. Share!!

---

Artist Pierre was defeated!

His face still in absolute shock and awe, Pierre said nothing. He didn't even bother to reclaim his Pokemon. He had been crushed and tossed to the side like he was nothing. To most people, this would be a depressing experience to endure but the expression Pierre boasted was... Odd. It was almost as if he had finally gained the inspiration he needed. Still unresponsive, a rather odd fitting gentleman dressed in medical garb strolled over to the scene. Taking out his stethoscope, he placed it over a number of places on the Mr.Mime's chest before thinking to himself deep in thought. "Hmmmm... I pronounce this Pokemon knocked out." Standing up, the doctor raised up his foot and punted it forward, forcing the unconscious Pokemon to go rolling off to where Pierre was. "Are you quite done Pierre?" Whipping his face back and forth to force himself back into reality. Pierre nodded. "Madame... You have given me a vision... I must commit this inspiration to canvas at once! Monsieur Mime! Return! WE HAVE A MASTERPIECE TO MAKE!"

Hurrying off out of view, the rather cold doctor fellow stood at the opposite end of the gauntlet and adjusted his face mask to talk a little easier. "You're certainly an angel of death, little lady. But i'm afraid you've just bumped into Dr.Death himself. There's a reason I operate down her in the underground which i'm sure you can follow." His eyes bluntly looking into Sharada's, he pulled out a Pokeball from his scrubs and chuckled morosely. "You've got a rather rambunctious Nidoqueen there. No matter. I'll put it to sleep and we can be done with this gauntlet. You're entering the big leagues now. It's do or die!" Tossing his Pokeball forward eager for battle, he revealed a rather brutish looking Chansey. Most of these species had nurturing, sweet little smiles but this one had a thuggish looking grin spread over its face. The way it stood with confidence, it was clear this Pokemon had experienced a great number of battles and come out as victor to boot!



Trainer Encounter

---

Doc Brad is ready to make his diagnosis!


He orders forth Chansey (Level 23)
Please select a Pokemon for battle.

[Morrigan]

Not really much of an art lover or appreciator, Sharada wasn't entirely clued up on the way of his world. It was puzzling enough for her that the idea of such a laid back job would lead to him appearing in this rough, underground area of Goldenrod City. Surely he led a calm and peaceful life with just his Pokemon and art supplies surrounding him. There had to be more to it than that. Her large eyes narrowing as if trying to work him out, she had came to the idea that because his life was so peaceful, that he came here for a bit of excitement, similar to the men she had faced previously. Yet it didn't end there. From the thickness of the cigar and particular scent of the smoke, she knew he wasn't smoking anything cheap like she did. Maybe he was coming across as modest and really, he was earning big money in the art world. Almost shuddering as the Mr Mime began to move, she couldn't help but link it to the one Pokemon she felt uncomfortable around; Jynx. After turning into one during a freak, Halloween accident, any Pokemon remotely humanoid would just freak her out, with the exception of the Machop line and possibly one or two others. "R-Right." She responded to his words. Twitching her eyebrow wearily as Pierre and the mime erupted into laughter, she couldn't quite find the energy to laugh back. Flinching with a look of disdain as her opponent's laughter grew with the withdrawing of Mr Mime, Sharada took in his words with a nervous expression that began to ease as he explained to her his strategy.

Immediately feeling relieved, she became certain that she was making the right decision. Allowing Umaro to remain by her feet and dance around, it seemed his idea of blocking Umaro's attacks could've been the end to the simians fiery winning streak. "Ah, your strategy is setting up barriers?" She questioned as he maybe said too much, "Well no matter. My next is just as strong as my Darumaka, I assure you that she wont disappoint." With the tables quickly turning and sight of the large Nidoqueen scaring the duo into a look of pure shock, Sharada laughed snootily with a shrug of her shoulders and allowed her Pokemon free reign. Sending the entire underground into a manic quake, Sharada also struggled to remain on the same spot, holding her arms out as she tried to keep her balance whilst Umaro danced all the way through it.

Cleanly knocking the Mr. Mime out with a deft strike to the chin, the area soon regained it's calm as the battle drew to it's conclusion. Staring on at the disaster Bellatrix had brought down upon the Mr. Mime, the brunette became even more startled as what appeared to be a doctor entered the scene. At first he examined the fainted creature but then he lifted his foot and booted it back to the artist. Not having any right to interfere at this sign of cruelty, the old Sharada would've jumped in without a second thought yet these days, she was begrudgingly getting used to the sight. Suddenly, the foreign voice of Pierre entered her ears, the girl staggering back somewhat as he claimed to have been struck by some inspiration, "H-Huh?! Oi! You best not be including me in that painting!" Shaking a less than threatening fist in the air, her posture drooped in defeat as he disappeared into the crowd. No matter, if he did happen to include the Rocket in some form or another, she would just have to seek and destroy the evidence herself.

Lowering her hand from the air, she couldn't help but suddenly feel a chill run down her spine from her next opponent. Turning to face him, this man gave off some ominous vibes that put her on the edge. Lifting a hand up to her neck, she tugged uncomfortably at the collar of her dress which clung to her neck, as if to let some air in. His presence had made her a bit more fidgety as she began to then readjust her gloves. "Dr.Death? Yeah, I get that from here. You are the exact type of person I was expecting to face. It wouldn't surprise me if you were in Team Rocket yourself." Hinting at his creepy vibes, she definitely looked hot under the collar with anxiety. His Pokemon giving her double the chills, she would never be able to look at the feminine species in the same way again, after witnessing this brutish, big chinned Chansey gurning at her in a thug like manner. "Sorry doc, we wont be able to make it to your appointment." Sharada called out, followed by an abrupt shiver, "I've had all my jabs already."

Turning to Nidoqueen, even she was taken off guard by the sight of the Chansey. Not quite understanding what she was looking at, Bellatrix turned with a hint of hesitance and if the huge Nidoqueen was holding back then it just proved how scary this duo came across as. "Don't give it any chances, Bellatrix. Use another Earthquake!" Turning her body back, the Nidoqueen regained her usual glaring look of rage, wanting to get this over with quickly.

[Kataya]

Underground Gauntlet

Brad smirked at her comment. Maybe if he was any sicker, he could have been part of Team Rocket. Or maybe he was that sick already, he couldn't really tell you. But she seemed annoyed by his comments. What a drag that was. "Skipping appointments is very irresponsible of you." He commented with a slight smirk. The brutish Chansey let out a snort at Bellatrix, who looked back at it with a bored expression. So when Sharada ordered her to use Earthquake, she complied. Her feet hit the ground hard and the tectonic plates of the world seemed to shift for a moment, unlocking and shifting until a sharp rumble erupted from under their feet. Chansey was knocked off balance and cried out as it was rolled right into its defeat. The Gauntlet had really been shaken up since Sharada entered the very folds of it. "...Tch. You damn woman..." Doc brad growled. He yanked another Pokeball off his belt, prepared to face Sharda with another Pokemon, when someone cleared their throat. "Now you know the darn rules, take your loss and leave." Someone commanded. "Tch..." Brad did as he was was told, leaving to make way for the last challenger. He was an old man, with a few missing teeth and a really wonky looking mustache. "I'm surprised. Not many people make it so far down here from up above I'll have you know. But I'm gonna need to stop you right here young lady. Wheyhehehehe!" He laugh was old and cackly as he tossed a Pokeball into the air, revealing a Garbador. "Now don't you muck up mah floors too much!" He mentioned to the Pokemon, who opened his mouth, letting out all kinds of gross, intangible sounds. --- Battle! Chansey never had a chance! OHKO'D! Bellatrix gained 1500 exp points! Bellatrix grew to Level 31! Gained +1 Happiness! Doc Brad was defeated! Janitor Chris challenged you to a battle! Janitor Chris sent out Garbador (Male, Level 24)!

made by redox of gs

[Morrigan]

Simply smiling back at the doctor's retort about missing appointments, Sharada knew that this man was in a completely different league in comparison to the previous people she had faced. They had been more casual and laid back than she first anticipated but this man was still sending shivers down her spine. Maybe it was the face mask which obscured a part of his face that caused her to be on edge or maybe it was the brutish Chansey he was partnered with. Regardless, he was not the type of doctor she would want to meet down a dark alley way. Running her hand across the back of her neck to try and relax the goosebumps across her body, luckily Bellatrix was there to disguise her sudden nerves with a second, almighty Earthquake. Grimacing in her mind as she realised the crowd would also be affected by this move yet again, she didn't think about it too deeply. Knocking the Chansey straight off her feet, Sharada clenched a secret victory fist by her side. She couldn't believe how her luck had suddenly turned. She was sure that Darumaka would lose in the beginning but now, things were really looking up.

Hearing Brad mutter something angrily and then reach for a second Pokeball, she opened her mouth to actually warn him of the rules herself, since she had received a strict word at the start. But someone else beat her to the punch. With an angered grunt, the demon doctor left the stage and merged back into the crowd, another elderly man taking his place. Examining him from a distance, Sharada wore a more gentle smile. "Thanks for stepping in there. I should know better than to get on the wrong side of a doctor." Easing up some, she lifted a Pokeball and quickly withdrew Nidoqueen without even knowing her opponent, "Return for now, Bellatrix." Perhaps she was being too kind once again but this elderly janitor seemed the most jolly of the bunch and she didn't want to knock him over with a third Earthquake. Waving a hand in the air as if to brush off his surprise, the fact that this was the last battle had made her a little bit excited, "This Gauntlet has certainly been a challenge, that is for sure. In fact, I know one or two people who may be interested in this little fight club. I'll let them know..." Suddenly trailing off, a wicked, confident grin spread across her cheeks, "...As soon as I win."

Watching as her final opponent was sent forth, a pungent smell was the first thing to hit her before the Pokemon had even formed properly. A hand lifting to cover her nose, she pinched it tightly, trying to block out the terrible smell. A certain trainer from Kanto and his Pokemon weren't particularly nice smelling but she put up with it because she liked them. This smell, on the other hand, was on a completely different level and as the shape formed into a Garbodor, the answer became clear. The creature was practically a walking pile of rubbish, to put it bluntly, it stunk. Wearily looking down to Umaro, who she had hoped to use for this final turn, she became completely shocked at even he was reacting to the smell. "D-Darn. I guess that leaves..." Drooping her hand down to her side, the brunette lifted her third and final Pokeball from the trio she had chosen to bring along with her. Exhaling, she slowly shook her head, "This is not going to end well." Having left the janitor hanging for long enough, Sharada made her choice by tossing the ball forward, an elegant, human like Pokemon floating gracefully out of the light. Until her face contorted into a look of pure disgust, tarnishing her first impression of coming across as graceful.

"WHAT IS THIS FOUL, PUTRID STENCH?!" Turning to face Sharada with a glare that could kill in itself, the Gardevoir was adamant for an explanation as she spoke to Sharada through telepathy. "What is the meaning of this?! Have you utterly lost your pathetic excuse of a mind?! Why are we in this absurd underground broom cupboard, surrounded by these rejects of society?!" Absolutely seething with anger, Sharada was taken off guard, not realising just how mad her Pokemon had become. "I would say take a deep breath and relax but that is probably not the best idea--" Flinching somewhat as her Pokemon dramatically lent closer threateningly, Delphine begrudgingly loosened her shoulders and turned to view the Garbodor. "We are in a underground fight club. This is the last battle, please pull through for me, Delphine. I don't like this anymore than you do." Sighing heavily, the Gardevoir didn't respond and instead floated forward, a look of pure hatred etched into her face as she took in the sight of her opponent. "You are nothing more than a mound of filth and you will be treated as such. Off with you!" Realising that she had been silent for a long time, Sharada shook her head and quickly blurted out her order, despite the hand which still covered her nose making her voice sound strange, "Meet my final choice, Gardevoir! Unleash a Psychic attack, Delphine!" More than happy to comply, if only to hurry back into the safety of her Pokeball, the elegant Gardevoir prepared her attack.

OOC: Jigglypuff is also wearing Exp. Share so she is now Level 16, I'll update!

[The REAL Joey]

Revelling a little in the sheer disgust and revulsion at the choice of his Pokemon, the spry janitor flicked around his mop on the floor before stomping it square down on the ground and leaning down on its pole. "Heh heh heh. I see my choice in Pokemon has left you a little green around the gills. Don'tcha worry. That's not my tactic. Although, most people who get a whiff of this beauty surely forfeit 'cause they can't stand it! Hahahahaha!" Laughing raucously, he slapped the side of his thigh before simmering down and taking on a more serious tone. "I've seen how ya fight, missy. You're a real dame. All of us nobodies live for the thrill of the fight. Somethin' to get the adrenaline pumpin'. A little somethin' you can't get in the day to day monotony of life." His wonky moustache getting even more lopsided as he beamed with his toothless grin. "I'm pretty sure you're beginnin' to understand what kinda set up we got goin' on down here in the under." Flicking up his mop, he balanced the middle part of the grip on his neck and then rested his arms limpy on the remaining spare sections of the mop handle.

Taking a moment to confer with his Pokemon, he lowered his voice. "Alright Garbodor. Just like we practised. You're a big, bulky, mean son of a gun. You can take anything that little princess type can throw at'cha but be sure to hit back with everythin' you got. I don't think miss prim and proper over there has ever really had enough of a counter to endure. We'll make her cry out over more than just a chipped nail, hah hah!" Stepping away from his revolting Pokemon, he heard Sharada's move and laughed. "HAH! Psychic?!... Oh... Oh no. OH NOOOOOOOOO!" As her words laid rest in his mind, the janitor realised that the move was actually quite a deadly one, especially against his Pokemon. Most of the time Pokemon had to make physical contact with the putrid rubbish bag Pokemon and because of this, whiffed most of their attacks. But if this Gardevoir could strike from afar with her mental powers. His eyes askance at what would happen, he watched as Delphine powered up her psychic abilities.

Enshrouded in a powerful aura of powerful majesty, the very room seemed to twist to her peerless ability. Her eyes now gleaming with hateful malice, she sent powerful telepathic waves at the Garbodor. Having never really taken on such an assault as this, the Pokemon didn't quite know what to do. Most of the time it had used its impressive bulk to endure blows but even if it could tell its bulk would be useless against an enemy it couldn't see. Although Delphine was standing perfectly still, the Pokemon sensed a sinister energy swirling towards it. Shuddering as it tried to defend itself by raising its trash like arms, the Pokemon near enough exploded as Delphine's unbridled psychic attack laid waste to the Pokemon. As it received the brunt of the attack, it was clear that there was no coming back from that. As a bit of rubbish fell from the air and landed askew on top of the janitor's head, he looked at Sharada, his mouth agape.



Gauntlet Battle

---

Chris' Garbodor | ♂ | Level 24 |
Health : 0% (0/79 HP)
Status : OHKO'd
...

Delphine | ♀ | Level 30 |
Health : 100% (90/90 HP)
Status : Normal
Disposed!

---

Weather status: Normal

---

Victory!

---

Your Gardevoir fought courageously and gained 1200 experience!
Delphine also gained +2 Happiness thanks to the Soothe Bell.


Your Jigglypuff observed brilliantly and has levelled up!
It went up by 1 level and is now Level 17 thanks to Exp. Share!!
Fujiko would like to learn the move Round.
Delete a move to learn Round?

---

Janitor Chris was defeated!

Like the rest of the fight club battlers she had faced, the only thing that could be sensed from the male was that of utter disbelief. Trembling as he raised his Pokemon's Pokeball, he returned the construed Pokemon's body and stood there in absolute shock. It was only when the loudspeaker erupted with confirmation of the news. "AND THAT'S IT FOLKS! WE HAVE A NEW QUEEN OF THE UNDERGROUND! HER NAME?! NONE OTHER THAN SHARADA SEWELL!!!! Let's give her a round of applause!" As the spectators of the gauntlet stood up and clapped, it appeared that the challenge had been conquered all thanks to Sharada's Pokemon and her guiding strategy. Coming up from the wings, a gentleman appeared next to Sharada with some items in his hands. "You definitely pulled all the stops out there and for that i'm grateful. I'm one of the gauntlet organisers and let me just say, you were a popular choice on the betting circuit today. I even raked in a tidy sum, eheheheh. *ahem* Anyway. What I wanted to say is you won big!"

Pushing forward the items in his hand, the guy continued on. "As the new gauntlet champ, we award you with this. A prized golden nugget and a TM! This TM is symbolic of this very underground gauntlet. It's an offensive punching move that heals back off the damage you make. It's perfect! Just as you carried on fighting, this Drain Punch will ensure that you sustain your stamina to continue on swinging." Handing her the items, the crowd erupted into one more explosion of celebration. Everyone here in this seedy underground fighting club had become bored of their dead end jobs and lives. Some were tired of the squeaky clean image the official Pokemon league challenge presented. This fight club provided the white knuckle entertainment they all craved. And Sharada had served up more than they could handle.

Congratulations! You won the Underground Gauntlet!!
You have won the following items:
x1 Nugget x1 TM60 Drain Punch

[Morrigan]

Leaving a hand pinned to her nose as Delphine floated forward begrudgingly, the brunette couldn't help but here the janitor cackle at her reaction to his chosen Pokemon. She honestly could not help it, the smell was so fierce that this was her natural reaction and even her Gardevoir was holding a hand up to her face, leering her own crimson red eyes. Not surprised in the slightest to hear that people would literally forfeit at this point due to the stench, a part of her was almost considering it herself. But a nagging in the back of her mind urged her to continue and if she left now, Delphine would have a field day nagging at her. Freezing as he then followed by sending her a compliment along with his view on the gauntlet, she replied, even with her pinched nose. "This gauntlet really is something. Although I can only enter once, if I get the chance I would wanna watch as a bystander. You guys are all on another level of tough." Trailing off as she watched the janitor lean in and whisper to his Pokemon, Sharada took this as an opportunity to test if her nose had gotten used to the smell of rotting trash.

Wearily taking her hand away from her face, her expression churned into a look of disgust once more, quickly trying to close off her sense of smell with both hands. Luckily for Sharada and everyone else in the Underground, Delphine had had enough sitting around and putting up with the smell. Using her incredible psychic powers, she put the Garbodor in a tough position. Not able to guard against a physical attack, it was an odd sight for the bystanders. To them, Delphine had done nothing but right before their very eyes, the pile of rubbish began to decay. "Hmph. And that is how you take out the rubbish, you miserable cur." Delphine hissed, folding her arms tightly and turning away.

All of a sudden, a booming noise erupted from the walls, making both Sharada and Umaro jump as they began gazing around in awe. The words 'Queen of the Underground' made her eyes widen as a flurry of clapping hands and cheers suddenly entered her ears. Delphine looked on with a disinterest, already confident in her abilities yet didn't mind this sudden burst of attention whilst Umaro had since jumped back up onto his feet, waving his hands around cutely and dancing in time with the applause. Sharada on the other hand, still appeared stunned. She had never experienced a feeling like this before. In the past, whenever attention was on her, it always led to a negative experience of feeling down and depressed. But this was something else entirely. Finally understanding the thrill all the members of the gauntlet had mentioned, she began to realise that close knit battles like this were even enough to get her blood pumping. This odd feeling was that of confidence and pride, she had managed to succeed! Picking up on her trainers joy, Delphine managed a subtle smirk. Sharada had always been under confident but if more experiences like this were to happen, maybe the Gardevoir's life would be less dull and safe. A bit of excitement and danger was something both Sharada and her entire team needed to experience.

Being approached by a smart gentleman, Sharada couldn't quite keep her smile hidden. At this point, she didn't care if she was the centre of some dodgy bet, she was just amazed that she had pulled through. Holding out her hands, she accepted the prizes, her eyes lingering particularly on the disc which held a special move. Nodding to his in depth description of the gifted attack, it was going to be tough for Sharada to decide which of her partners to teach it to. Parting her lips to speak, she was caught off guard once again as the crowd erupted into an even louder applause, Umaro trying his very best to join in by crying at the top of his lungs and bouncing on the spot. Laughing once, Sharada held out a hand to offer the organiser a hand shake, "Thank you! I will cherish this title and remember the experience that came with it." Retrieving her hand back, the brunette beamed out to the crowd who had continued to cheer. It might've been a shady, underground fighting system but it didn't feel unnatural in the slightest.

FIN

OOC: Items updated, thanks for the fun quest!