Accidents Happen (Underground Gauntlet)[F]

[Tyger]

As night began to fall, Justin made sure to feed his team and give them a good rest. The second team he'd been forming, full of older Pokemon and new, was coming together quite well. However, training in Azalea wasn't doing much for his nerves, nor his Pokemon's levels. Some of the higher leveled Pokemon seemed frustrated with the easy battles, so Justin had made his way back to Goldenrod in order to train a bit more with some stronger wild Pokemon. Riika, as it was easy to guess who was complaining, had been sated for now. However, as he got ready to bunker down in the spare rooms within the Pokemon Center, he saw a few figures sneak out of a side door. 

Curiosity spiked, Justin stood to follow. 

Simba walked at his side, almost coming up to his chest on all fours. On two legs, Justin was sure the Luxray was quite the large cat. "Wonder where they're going." The photographer grunted, curious if he should've grabbed his camera. If they were about to commit a crime or something, photographic evidence was always helpful for his pockets. And the police, of course, but Justin did have quite a few Pokemon to feed. 

"I'm not comfortable in this particular situation. We don't know where they're going." The Luxray snorted, walking alongside his trainer nonetheless. "Bah. You worry too much." Justin let his hand rest on the mane of the lion. "Besides, i've got the main team with me, plus Rocky. We should be fine if we come across anybody." As they spoke though, the two figures had disappeared into alleyways of Goldenrod. The Luxray took this as a sign to go back, and Justin stopped at one of the empty Goldenrod junctions. "I guess you're right. Besides, we've had a long day of training." As Justin went to turn, he accidentally bumped into quite the large, burly figure. 

Simba's fur began to spark and rise with his hackles, and Justin stuttered out an apology. A spindly, glasses wearing stick was an easy target, yeah? "Hey, i'm totally sorry. I didn't even see you there. Glasses, ya know?" Laughing nervously, he watched the man pass him into the alleyway with a grunt. Justin thought he almost heard the man say something about a battle. Well, if it was for his own honor, he'd have to oblige, right? "Good. That'll teach him." Simba growled, letting himself relax. However, an irritated snarl erupted from the lion as Justin began to follow the man. "I swear you're going to walk into trouble one of these days." Following the man - knowing nothing about the Gauntlet, despite living in Azalea - into the alley that led straight to the Gauntlet. "Oh, uh..." The man was out of sight, replaced with hundreds of cheering fans around an arena where Pokemon were fighting. Justin returned his Luxray before he growled himself to death, and began to back up. "It appears as though i've gotten lost. I should probably be going now!" With the last of the spectators here, the doors closed behind him. Justin gulped.

[latani]

Underground Gauntlet

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Shady people skulking about, burly men rushing by with nary a glance - what exactly would draw such vastly different people to one location? One that had them flocking like birds and acting just as noisily, the dull roar of the crowd growing to a volume rivaling that of a jet taking off. If Justin looked out over the cheering, stomping group, the diversity was staggering. School aged kids shouted next to middle-aged businessmen with loosened ties fluttering from the movement of their neighbours. Burly bikers towered next to fashionably dressed women; all kinds of people all gathered for one secretive, adrenaline inducing event. Any confusion as to what that event might be was cleared up as static crackled over the roaring crowd, followed by a booming voice.

"HELLOOOOO THERE FOLKS! ARE YOU READY FOR ANOTHER THRILLING INSTALLMENT OF GOLDENROD'S COOLEST EVENT? OLD AND NEW, COOL GAL OR DUDE, WE WELCOME YOU TO THE INFAMOUS UNDERGROUND GAUNTLET!"

Another great roar swept through the crowd in reply. Behind Justin stood the burly man who had passed him outside, and he looked down at Justin with a clinical glance. "You're a new one. Bit on the lanky side. But I guess the big man can make something of you, give the crowd something to cheer you on with. Don't know your name, don't really care, but let's call you... Tiger," he rumbled, eyes lingering on Justin's tattoo before he looked down at a clipboard in his hands and wrote it down. The man was almost a complete head taller than Justin with a buzzed head, and filled in his dark suit in a way that meant no arguing with him - not unless you wanted to argue with his fists. Raising his free hand to cup over his mouth, the man shouted out over the still noisy crowd. "YO! We got a new face here! Escort Tiger boy here to the ring would ya?"

A second man just as brawny as the first broke through the crowd and nodded at Justin, leading the likely nervous trainer to the center of the gathering, where a makeshift ring had been constructed. "Rules of the Gauntlet are pretty simple, Tiger. You get three Pokémon to use here, no more than that. You'll be doing five battles in a row, no stops for breaks. Healing is all on you. Cheat, and your sorry ass will be booted out of here faster than a Rapidash. Good luck," said the second man, stepping backing and gesturing for Justin to step into the ring. His opponent, a man dressed in construction gear, was adjusting his tool belt and looked up with a friendly smile.

"HOPE YOU HAVE YOUR SNACKS READY, BECAUSE THE MAIN EVENT IS ABOUT TO BEGIN! BEST PUT YOUR GAME FACES ON TOO, AS WE HAVE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN THE HOUSE IN OUR NEWEST CHALLENGER - TIGER! GIVE HIM A WARM GAUNTLET WELCOME!"

Cheers and screams filled the air, drawing a laugh from the man facing Justin, his hand already holding a Poké Ball in readiness for the upcoming battle. He seemed fairly easygoing and relaxed, despite all the grime and dirt that stained his face and clothing. "Hey Tiger, nice to meet ya. The name's Robert, and I'll be your first opponent. Don't think I'll be the easiest one though!" Robert said with a good-natured chuckle. He let the ball fly with a lazy flick of the wrist, sending forth a Klang that spun wildly at being released. "Klang and I have been partners for far too long to lose now!"

---

Worker Robert of the Gauntlet has challenged you to a battle!
He sends out Klang (Level 20)!

[Tyger]

"T... The Underground Gauntlet?" Justin spoke to himself, listening to the announcer rile up the crowd. What was this place? Was it Fight Club? Was he allowed to go and tell others about it? Would the announcer go over the rules? Justin's mind raced and his hand sat on his camera in a protective gesture. With all these people walking around, it was really easy to bump into large burly men who could probably break his camera against their biceps. No thanks. A small bit of curiosity pushed forward, but not enough to keep Justin here. Unfortunately, the large burly men were doing a better job of that. "Wait, me? Participate? Nah, i'm probably a lightweight. These people are here to see good trainers..." 

After seeing both men, Justin let his shoulders slump. Arguing wasn't going to get him anywhere, unless the hospital was on his list. Not wanting to cause a fight or get himself into even deeper trouble, the nervous Justin followed the different people he'd been bounced around from. They hadn't even asked his name! Instead, they'd given him a nickname. Tiger? Where would they get that? His eyes wandered to his shoulder, where his tattoos stuck out against his tan skin. Oh, yeah, that might do it. Forgetting that he was only in his jeans and a tank top (Well, he was getting ready for bed, after all..) Justin wished he had his jacket at least. He could wrap himself up in it like a security blanket. It looked badass, so at least he would have fit in... He had half a mind to send Simba after the jacket for him, but he tossed that idea out very quickly.

A man explained the rules to him, albeit briefly. Thankfully he'd switched out his Pokemon that evening before going to bed, or he'd be here with Riika, and as amusing as she was, he'd need his best Pokemon to face the unknown challenge. Only 3 Pokemon... He'd have to choose wisely. Justin decided he'd wait until he saw the Pokemon the people he'd fight would use. It was a risky move, but he didn't want to choose Dayn and then have no fire Pokemon to fight against. Better to make the choice later in this circumstance. As he was led to the ring, he saw who he assumed was the first challenger. A metal Pokemon, much like the one he'd seen in the cave, hovered next to him. Rhoan had made quick work of that metal Pokemon, so it must be steel too. However, he didn't want to pull Rhoan out just yet. "Nice to meet you, Robert. Uh, no chance I can wiggle out of here?" Justin read his expression before laughing nervously. "Alright, alright. Hopefully i'll make it a few pegs before they toss me outta here."

The announcer blared overhead, and Justin had to remind himself that HE was tiger. He was expecting to see someone much more capable, but no, it was just him. Releasing a Pokemon onto the field, it was probably an odd choice to onlookers. His Trapinch, Freyja, looked around nervously, probably matching her trainer quite well. "Don't ask... It's... a long story. But, we've gotta win, alright? I believe in you, okay? Let's Bulldoze this guy down."

[latani]

Round 1 - Vs. Worker Robert

- - - - - - - - - - -

"Ah don't worry Tiger, they won't boot ya, unless you've got something like a Palkia hiding on ya, haha!" Robert chuckled, looking rather at ease despite the rowdy crowd surrounding them. Countless battles, victorious or otherwise, were what he came to the Gauntlet for, and this newcomer seemed promising despite his obvious nervousness. A sigh seemed to sweep through the room as Freyja came out, quite a few girls squealing over how cute the Trapinch was. Even Robert smiled at her, though his Klang remained impassive and silent, a stoic contrast to its trainer.

"WOULD YOU LOOK AT THAT CUTE BUGGER OF A POKEMON? WITH THOSE JAWS, ITS BITE IS DEFINITELY WORSE THAN ITS BARK! DON'T FORGET TO VISIT THE SNACK BAR FOR WORKING YOUR OWN SNAPPERS BEFORE THINGS GET HEATED FOLKS!"

Nodding at his Klang, Robert directed it forwards and adopted a confident posture, eyes sparking with determination. "Alright Klang, show 'em how it's done with Gear Grind!" the man said without preamble. The metallic Pokémon began whirling quickly as it levitated forwards, picking up even more speed as it approached the nervous-looking Freyja, who took a hasty step back. But Klang wasn't about to be deterred and suddenly rocketed after her, slamming its smaller gears into her body once, twice, before swerving away.

Freyja struggled to her wee feet, wincing from the pain radiating through her. The side of her body bore painful looking scrapes from the attack, but she wasn't about to let it hold her back. Stamping down hard, it almost appeared as if the Trapinch was having a minor tantrum, though the tremors she was creating said otherwise. A final set of stomps made the ground rise up beneath Klang, eliciting startled shouts and gasps from Robert and those closest to the ring. The Bulldoze knocked Klang out of the air with a loud clatter, where it lay on the ground unmoving. Robert leaned over his Pokémon and let out a sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I don't believe this..."

"IT'S A ONE. HIT. KNOCKOUUUUUUT! INCREDIBLE DISPLAY OF BRUTE STRENGTH BY TIGER'S LITTLE CHOMPER, SWEEPING AWAY THE COMPETITION! CAN HE KEEP IT UP WITH THE NEXT FIGHTER THOUGH?"

Gauntlet Battle

---

Robert's Klang | Level 20 |
Health: 0% (0/60 HP)
Status: ...; Fainted!
Klang used a successful Gear Grind! Hit two times!
Klang fainted!

VS

Justin's Freyja | Level 28 |
Health: 52% (37/71 HP)
Status: Grind this!; Normal
Freyja used a successful Bulldoze!

---

Freyja fought well and gained +1500 Exp! (+500 due to the Lucky Egg)
Earned +1 Happiness!

---

Recalling his fainted Pokémon, Robert tucked the ball away and smiled in a regretful way at Justin. "Well, I was bested. But no hard feelings, aye? Good luck, Tiger! I'll be rooting for you!" he said with a wave, making his way out of the ring. It was scant seconds later that his replacement appeared, a man clad in business clothes chattering away on a cellphone he held pressed to his ear. He snapped it shut with an angry sigh, looking balefully over at Justin as if it were all his fault. "Really? Huh. I guess Robert isn't up to snuff if someone like you got through. Name's Pete. Ninjask, let's go," the man said peevishly, releasing his choice without waiting for Justin's reply. Wasn't he just delightful...

---

Clerk Pete of the Underground Gauntlet is your next opponent!
He sends out Ninjask (Level 21)!

[Tyger]

Most of the gents that Justin had seen looked terrifying, but thankfully, Robert seemed like a nice contrast. Although they were about to duke it out, Justin didn't feel pressured or nervous as much as he was outside of the ring. Freyja and he made a good pair, at least. He could feel the Pokemon's nervous nature, despite the fact that it was just another battle. Maybe it was the fact there were so many people here? Attempting to shrug it off was working so far. Just treat it like another battle.. just treat it like another battle... Thanking Robert for his nice words, Justin gave him a little head nod before cringing as the announcer continued to yell into the mic. People were up in arms about his Trapinch, mainly the girls. Freyja was cute, after all. 

Klang wasn't. Justin's heart sank as the metal Pokemon began to grind it's metal gears into the hide of the Trapinch. Desperately wanting to help his Pokemon, Justin sat still and watched it unfold. Freyja withstood it well enough, and began to retaliate with her stomping. Reaching for something to hold onto, Justin steadied himself as Freyja bulldozed the Pokemon down to the ground. Whatever had kept the gears floating, perhaps it's own sheer willpower, was gone as it fainted. With an unceremonious plop and klang, the Pokemon was fully knocked out. Robert didn't seem too upset, perhaps used to this being the first leg, but it didn't make him feel any better about it. As the Gauntlet fighters switched, Justin crouched down and patted the head of the Trapinch. 

"Nah, really. You did great, girl! I'm proud of you." He nuzzled her nose with his before returning her to her Pokeball. The next fighter was already out, a bit preoccupied with a phone call to pay much attention to Justin. Who hired these people, anyways? A Ninjask buzzed around him, and Justin tried to formulate a plan as the other guy, Pete, flapped his gums uselessly. Okay. Fast bug. Really fast bug. Could use Dayn, but no idea what other Pokemon come after the really fast bug. Hmmm... Justin fumbled for a Pokeball, and hoped he wasn't about to make a really, really stupid mistake. "... Alright, Rhoan.. C'mon out..." He murmured, releasing his Pignite. Immediately, in a flashy show of flames and snorts, his Pignite appeared in front of Pete and his Ninjask. A crowd hog already, this merely fueled the Pignite as she began to flex for the crowd, snorting fire from her nostrils. "Whoah, whoah... Rhoan. Focus! Save it for the battles. We've got plenty of them." 

"Heh! Don't tempt me with a good time!" Rhoan snorted, crossing her arms and leaning back into Justin's leg, whispering. "So what's the plan, eh? Pound it til it drops?" "No... Just... Flame Charge it please." Justin announced, beginning the battle. As soon as Charge finished from his mouth, the Pignite was engulfed in flames and ready to rumble.

[latani]

Round 2 - Vs. Clerk Pete
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Unlike Robert, Pete wasn't much for small talk; in fact, he looked downright cold. But the smiles he had to paste on for the 'customers who are always right' wore him right out, and if he wasn't the happiest person to be fighting in an underground battling group... well, tough Tauros poop. What he did have was a keen mind for strategy, and the Ninjask that buzzed next to him was proof of that. Not that Tiger-boy would know until it was too late, Pete thought with grim amusement. He adjusted his tie impatiently while waiting to see what Pokémon would be sent out with much less anticipation than the crowd.

People waited with breaths held, their attention completely focused on Justin, which was likely to unnerve him somewhat. Justin was right to worry, because as soon as Rhoan appeared, the crowd went wild. A real-deal Unovan Pokémon raring to fight, and with some flame-spouting snorts, they were putty in her paws. Pete winced as the cheering swelled to an almost unbelievable level, clamping his hands over his ears and scowling quite fiercely. Being a regular competitor didn't make the rowdiness any easier to deal with, it seemed.

"WHOOOOOOOA!! LOOKS LIKE WE GOT US A REAL SPITFIRE HERE! LOOK AT HER HAMMING IT UP FOR YOU LUCKY FOLKS! BUT CAN ALL THAT FIRE GET PAST THE BRILLIANCE THAT IS PETE'S CLEVER MIND? STAY TUNED!"

Once the worst of the noise had subsided, Pete lowered his hands and studied Rhoan with unblinking eyes. A Fire-type only spelt trouble for his Ninjask, and as Justin's Pignite cloaked herself in flames, the businessman knew he had to act fast. But to prevent from tipping his hand, Pete kept his face carefully blank, waiting until Rhoan was thundering across the ring towards his partner. "Very showy. But brute strength does not always win battles, Tiger. Ninjask?" he called out, allowing a thin smile to flicker across his lips. "Protect."

Rhoan's approach almost drowned him out, but Ninjask was close enough to Pete to hear the command and drew in all of its legs in readiness. With a derisive snort, Rhoan threw herself at the sitting duck of a Pokémon, knowing victory was assured. But when she instead slammed into a solid, bright green barrier, disbelief coursed through her. This tiny little bug had stopped her powerful Flame Charge with a flimsy Protect? Anger rankled through the Pignite as she stomped back over to Justin, oblivious to the tiny, smug smirk Pete now sported from his last minute ploy.

"OUCH, LOOKS LIKE THIS BLAZING HOG'S BEEN TIED THANKS TO PROTECT! BUT CAN NINJASK KEEP IT UP AGAINST SUCH A FEISTY OPPONENT? WE'RE ALL FIRED UP NOW!"

Gauntlet Battle

---

Pete's Ninjask | Level 21 |
Health: 100% (63/63 HP)
Status: Such a glory hog; Protected, Spd +1
Ninjask used a successful Protect!
Speed Boost raised Ninjask's speed!

VS

Justin's Rhoan | Level 29 |
Health: 100% (100/100 HP)
Status: You can't hide forever, pest; Normal
Rhoan used an unsuccessful Flame Charge...

[Tyger]

Rhoan had blazed ahead, hog wild and ready to knock out a bug. However, she hadn't expected the Protect, and could hardly hear the other trainer as the flames crackled around her body. When she struck the barrier, an angry squeal of rage escaped her lips, and she tumbled backwards, to the side, wherever she landed. Standing up, she brushed the dust off of her orange hide to see the Ninjask's protect slowly fade away. "Didn't even leave a damn dent, did I?" She snorted angrily, looking over at Justin. "Did you know it could do that?!" The Pignite stared accusingly at her trainer, and Justin shook his head. "Had I known, I probably would've gone with a different tactic. Sorry girl." It was really all he could say. Rhoan didn't totally understand how battles worked. She liked to beat things up, but didn't like it when she couldn't. 

"Don't take it personal, Rhoan. Just go in there, guns blazing!" Trying to calm his Pignite down, Justin thought of her pride. At the mention of guns, the Pignite sniffed and looked around. "Guns? Oh... you mean... these guns?" Rhoan flexed her arms once more, and Justin rolled his eyes. He certainly didn't know how to work up a crowd, but Rhoan did. Hopefully it wouldn't land them into more trouble. He didn't have a lot of time to heal his Pokemon, and if Rhoan carried on too long, it could be bad for him and the rest of the team. Well, Freyja, Rhoan and whoever else he chose to be his third Pokemon. "Rhoan, we're gonna try that again." Justin decided. He couldn't hide behind his protects forever. Stomach crunching, Justin hoped that Pete wasn't about to do the Double Team shit he'd seen other Ninjask users do. Rhoan's speed increased with each Flame Charge she did, but it wouldn't come close to anything that Ninjask could put out. With each turn, that damn thing got faster too. They had to knock it out fast, or he was going to have to baby his team through this, and that wouldn't be good. "Got it, chief!" Rhoan snorted, flames beginning to crackle around her body once more. "And if this doesn't work, we can give it a good pork chop!" She karate-chopped in front of herself before blazing forward towards Ninjask.

OOC: Did want to mention, although it really won't come into much effect here, but maybe later, that Flame Charge up's Rhoan's speed by +1.

[latani]

Round 2 - Vs. Clerk Pete
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Pete was hard at work trying to figure out a way around this apparently unwinnable fight, sweat beading on his forehead from the effort. Though the crowd was still cheering and generally being noisy and appreciative, a lone voice rose above the din with a distinctly mocking tone. "C'mon Pete, don't just spam Double Team and Protect! Fun sucker!" A wave of boos and jeers followed this taunt, laughter joining the mix as Pete whirled on the audience with a scowl. Just because he chose Ninjask most of all out of his Pokémon hardly warranted such mockery. "If you're not pleased with my fighting skills, your presence will hardly be missed," the business clerk replied icily. He turned back to the battle, fuming, and raked a hand through his dark hair.

"Never pleased, you fight mongers..." Pete huffed, turning sharp eyes on Justin and Rhoan. "Fine then. Ninjask, use Swords Dance!" he said with a scowl. He came to the gauntlet to let loose, not to be questioned and mocked for how he battled. Ninjask buzzed furiously and performed a jittery dance in the air, glowing a faint reddish colour as it boosted its Attack stat. Impressive though the sight was, it wasn't enough to deter Rhoan from emitting a dismissive snort. Like some fancy pants dance was going to save this bug from burning up.

"NINJASK SHAKES THINGS UP WITH SWORDS DANCE INSTEAD OF DOUBLE TEAM SPAM! HAS PETE FINALLY TURNED OVER A NEW LEAF? ...AS IF!"

Ignoring the tittering crowd, Rhoan threw herself into a mad dash across the ring, flames licking along her body until she was covered in them. She grinned in a roguish way as the Ninjask fluttered about wildly, as if wishing it could hide behind another Protect, and closed the distance between them with a final leap. Rhoan's impact sent Ninjask flying backwards like a smoking bug torpedo, the bug crashing into a startled looking Pete hard enough to make him tumble to the ground. Hands cradling his Ninjask, the clerk tried to rouse it, his voice lost to a surge of cheering that rose up around them.

"AND THAT'S ANOTHER ONE. HIT. KNOCKOOOOOOOOOUT! TIGER IS REALLY HEATING THINGS UP WITH THAT AMAZING PIGNITE! SPEAKING OF PIGS, HOT DOGS ARE ON SALE. TOTALLY NOT A COINCIDENCE!"

Gauntlet Battle

---

Pete's Ninjask | Level 21 |
Health: 0% (0/63 HP)
Status: ...; Fainted!
Ninjask used a successful Swords Dance!
Ninjask fainted!

VS

Justin's Rhoan | Level 29 |
Health: 100% (100/100 HP)
Status: Mmm, fried bug; Spd +1
Rhoan used a successful Flame Charge!

---

As the clerk rose to his feet, he looked rather dazed and lost, returning his Ninjask to its ball. "Good luck kid, it only gets tougher from here on," Pete said with a faint smile directed Justin's way, disappearing into the crowd with a certain degree of haste. A gap in the crowd spat out an older gentleman wearing a paint-covered smock and a kind smile. "Well well, Tiger is it? You have some lovely art of your own I see! Not surprising what name they gave you," he chuckled, nodding his approval of Justin's tattoos. "I am the artist, Pierre. What kind of fantastic battle will you paint for me today I wonder?" Producing a ball from his pocket, the Pokémon he sent out matched its trainer, at least in the fact it sported a paint-covered tail.

---

Rhoan gained 1050 for defeating NInjask! He is now level 30!
(38/2977) to level 31!
He gained 1 happiness! Now +14!


Rocky gained 2 levels (1 from previous round) from watching the battle!
He is now level 23!

---

Artist Pierre of the Underground Gauntlet is your third opponent!
He sends out Smeargle (Level 22)!

[Tyger]

((Okay, so EXP Share was on Timburr from the beginning to train it up as backup for the Gym Battle. So he should get +2 Levels at this point, but I won't update it myself. Second, Ninjask used Swords Dance, but in the battle set up it says it used X-Scissor, and Rhoan is missing HP from that. I assume Latani changed her mind or something? Either way, do I still have full HP or did I lose some from X-Scissor? Just wanted to point it out. BTW Latani, loving the announcer!))


The crowd seemed to dislike Pete, for whatever reason. Perhaps he was the stereotypical Ninjask user after all? Justin didn't mind strategy, but after a while, his pig was going to sizzle the bug. It was only a matter of time. While Justin liked a bit of strategy every once in a while, for the most part he was usually on the offensive. Especially with Rhoan. His fire roasted Pig enjoyed nothing more than diving into combat with fists pumped and fires blazing. She was a perfect fit for the Gauntlet, and this was (hopefully) everything she'd hoped for. Snorting and readying herself for the next attack, she basked in the situation at hand. Booing him and cheering her? The Pignite belonged here.

"Battle however you want, Pete. Don't let the crowd sway you." Justin called out, but it was lost to the cheering as the crowd picked up steam with his Pignite. She was already cloaking herself in flames prematurely, watching with a dismissive gaze as the Ninjask performed an attack raising stat. Justin used it too with Surreo. If an attack hit Rhoan if she didn't knock this bug out, it'd do quite a bit more damage than he was comfortable with. "Rhoan! It's defenses are down! Hit 'em with all you got!" "YOU GOT IT!" 

Adrenaline rushing, Rhoan charged forward, and excited squeal emitting from her mouth as she neared the bug. The flames licked at her hide, and smoke poured from her nostrils like a freight train about to make impact. The Ninjask was knocked from the sky instantly and was hurtled into Pete, who hit the ground with a thud. Justin opened his mouth to say something, but the crowd would've drowned it out immediately. Instead, Rhoan flexed her muscles and blew fire into the air, swishing her tail, doing anything she could to rile the crowd up. The announcer was going crazy with another one hit KO, and once Justin caught Rhoan's attention, he motioned her over for a hug. Pudgy arms wrapped around Justin's shoulders, leaving a little bit of soot on his tank top. Oh well. "Man, you did awesome, ya know? Ya practically b'long here."

"Nah, I belong where there's bigger fish to fry. That protect was nothing. Gotta keep the crowd interested!" Rhoan retorted, before looking up to listen to Pete's words. He departed, allowing the next combatant to take the stage. An older man with painter's gear on, greeted Justin. The blonde stood to acknowledge Pierre and smiled. "I gotta say, you seem a bit more friendly than Pete back there..." Justin murmured. Rhoan crossed her arms. "Don't play nice with the competition." "Play nice or you don't battle anymore..." "Did I mention his hair looks lovely?" "Atta girl."

Half the time Justin forgot about his tattoos. "Oh, thanks! I got them a few years back. Raikou stripes. It's my goal to photograph 'em. Just gotta get stronger. Rhoan, you're up." The paint Pokemon looked strange, but Justin figured that if Pierre was the third, he was no pushover. "Let's get this over quickly..." He murmured to Rhoan. "No telling what that thing has under it's sleeve. Arm Thrust it, if you would please."

[latani]

Round 3 - Vs. Artist Pierre
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Compared to Pete, Pierre seemed to be much more beloved by the crowd, proven when he turned and raised a hand in thanks and received a warm round of applause from the gathered people. Smeargle drank in the attention as well, rocking on its feet with a happy smile, even when it finally decided to take a good look at Rhoan. Unperturbed by her size or attitude, the dog-like Pokémon waved happily at her with its free paw, the other grasping its paint-tipped tail tightly. Whatever tricks it held up its furry sleeve would remain to be seen, especially with the battle yet to kick off.

"Well, we've spent enough time dawdling, haven't we Smeargle? Let us commence this battle!" Pierre said after facing Justin again, his smile sincere and bright. He had been watching the past two battles intently, and while Rhoan's strength was worrisome, Pierre hoped his Smeargle could take a hit or two so that they could dazzle the crowd with the attacks he'd taught his partner. "Don't be nervous, old friend. Just be ready for anything," he said in a low whisper, nodding to Smeargle as it stepped up to stand across from Rhoan.

"SMEARGLE PREPARES TO PAINT A NEW WORLD OF PAIN FOR TIGER'S HOT-HEADED HOG! BUT CAN OUR NEW POWER DUO STOP THIS DASTARDLY PLAN BEFORE IT CAN UNFOLD? STAY TUUUUUUNED!"

Rhoan lifted her arms and snorted out a lick of flame, the crowd going wild for the display. It was enough to get her revved up, the Pignite bearing down on Pierre's Smeargle with a wild grin. Even when Rhoan lifted one arm again, Smeargle didn't blink, only the slight narrowing of its eyes giving its intention away. Rhoan acted quickly, both arms pumping as she slammed her fists into Smeargle once, twice, three times. Reeling backwards, Smeargle looked stunned at her strength, coughing weakly as it dropped its tail, following suit shortly after. Beyond it, Pierre stared with open-mouthed awe, falling to his knees and gazing at his unconscious partner.

"HOOOOOOOOOOLY SMOKES! IT'S YET ANOTHER DAZZLING PERFORMANCE FROM OUR ONE-HIT KO WONDER! IT'S A GOOD THING WE CAN'T AFFORD CHAIRS HERE BECAUSE WE'D ALL BE ON THE EDGE OF OUR SEATS AFTER THAT INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE!"

Gauntlet Battle

---

Pierre's Smeargle | Level 22 |
Health: 0% (0/63 HP)
Status: ...; Fainted!

VS

Justin's Rhoan | Level 30 |
Health: 100% (103/103 HP)
Status: Can I get an actual challenge now?; Spd +1
Rhoan used a successful Arm Thrust!
Hit 3 times!

---

Rhoan fought well and gained +1100 EXP!
Earned +1 Happiness! (Happiness at MAX)


Rocky learned from the battle and grew to Level 24!
Rocky can learn the move Chip Away, but he already knows four moves.
Delete one for Chip Away?

---

"My word," Pierre said as he shakily rose to standing, returning Smeargle to its ball. "Pardon me, Tiger. I feel the itch to draw after that, and I fear I may lose that itch if I do not leave immediately. But I wish you the best of luck!" Raising a hand in farewell, the artist dove into the crowd. Several minutes ticked by before the fourth challenger appeared, a man dressed in scrubs hurrying into the ring. Mussed dark hair falling into his eyes, he seemed rather worn out, though it was hard to tell with a medical mask covering half of his face. "Tiger, is it? I'm Brad. Sorry for the wait, I just got off shift at the local hospital," Brad said in an apologetic tone. Wasting no time, the doctor sent out his Pokémon, an impish Misdreavus that stuck her tongue out at Rhoan.

---

Doctor Brad of the Underground Gauntlet is your fourth opponent!
He sends out Misdreavus (Level 23)!

[Tyger]

Things were heating up, and the more the crowd yelled, the more excited Justin's Pignite got. She was truly working the crowd, and Justin had to stop her from trying to get the entire crowd to start a 'wave.' He could hear the hawkers now selling hot dogs, and he wondered if Pignite was really okay with that or not. Either way, Rhoan was working up a storm, and by the way she was glaring over at this Smeargle, it was about to get serious. "Hey! Paintbrush!  You're going down. You hear that? I'mma take your innards, and make 'em your outards. You're gonna wish you'd painted yourself up some antibiotics or something, because you're about to be in a world of hurt!" Rhoan's taunts were awful and unimpressive at best, but Justin wanted her to shush anyways. "Can we not insult the other Pokemon please?" He whined, and Rhoan snorted. "Hmph. Fine."

Her Arm Thrusts were perfect and on point. All it took was three hits, and Smeargle was down and out before it could even get a bit of paint on Rhoan. It fell to the ground and the artist seemed stunned. "Are you not entertained?!" Rhoan smirked, putting her stubby arms up in the air as the announcer and crowd went wild with her strength. Justin facepalmed and called her over so that Pierre could return his Pokemon and make room for the next Gauntlet fighter. "You seeing this? I'm on FIRE, baby! I mean, I am fire but still! This crowd is putty in my paws!" She snickered. Her photographer trainer sighed. "That's probably why we shouldn't be working them up like that. Just... play it cool. Like this guy. Waltzing in like he's got enough money to not worry about this place."

When the man introduced himself as a doctor, Justin smiled. "See? What'd I tell ya. He's good." His choice of Pokemon made him think too. What was the best way to handle this situation? It was a ghost, and he wasn't sure if it'd be a good idea to go ahead and pick his third Pokemon without knowing what the last person had. So, he figured the best bet was the cute Trapinch. "Freyja, y ou're up." Preparing himself for the onslaught of "awwwwws" and the propable comment of not OHKO'ing a Pokemon, Justin had Freyja prepare up a Crunch for the fourth Gauntlet Pokemon.

Freyja uses Crunch

[latani]

Round 4 - Vs. Doctor Brad
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Many of the crowd-goers had begun to whisper excitedly amongst themselves, words that were sure to reach Justin's ears. Similar to Pete, Brad had developed a reputation for surprising those who made it to his battle in the Gauntlet. Tricks aplenty lay in wait, especially with his sneaky Misdreavus out to play. Her gold and red eyes studied Justin and Rhoan without blinking, the Ghost-type grinning to herself as she wondered what kind of fun she would have this time around. Whenever Brad chose her, it was easy enough to win - a slow, steady whittling of HP and toying with their minds, making her quite the bane for many a trainer who'd attempted the challenge. Giggling, Misdreavus twirled in the air, interest alighting her face as Justin sent out a familiar Trapinch to participate.

Living up to his expectations, the crowd lavished her with a round of 'oooh's and 'awww's, several girls shouting out that they were going to obtain a Trapinch of their own. Not that any wild Trapinch would be nearly as cute as Freyja, of course. But she hadn't been sent out because of her looks, and she watched Misdreavus carefully as Brad nodded the Ghost-type forwards. "Misdreavus, let's show Tiger we're no slouches. Ready up a Will-o-Wisp!" the good doctor said, eliciting a happy shriek from his partner. Oh, how she loved how her trainer could almost read her mind. Humming to herself, Misdreavus' orb necklace took on a sinister blue glow, several balls of blue-white flames popping into existence around her.

"WHAT'S UP, DOC? ONE PRESCRIPTION OF FIERY PAIN, THAT'S WHAT! BETTER GET SOME ALOE VERA FOR THAT BURN BECAUSE THAT'S GOTTA HURT! ALTERNATIVELY, BURN HEALS WORK JUST AS WELL!"

A delighted cackle from Misdreavus, and one mental push, sent the fireballs streaming towards Freyja. Some of them missed, but one scored a direct hit on Freyja's snout, leaving Justin's Trapinch stamping in agony. White-hot pain seared through her, almost debilitating in how badly it hurt. But she pushed through it, making a beeline directly for Misdreavus, who had made the mistake of dropping lower to the ground in order to better take aim at Freyja. Eyes widening, Misdreavus tried to float out of range, underestimating the Trapinch's persistence. Jumping up, Freyja sank her jaws into the bottom of Misdreavus' ghostly body, the shriek pouring from her mouth one of fury and pain. Dropping down with the taste of spook in in her mouth, the ant-like Pokémon trotted back to Justin, still wincing over her afflicted burn.

"OUCH! DIAGNOSIS: BURNED! CUTE LITTLE CHOMPER BETTER CALL IN A GROUP TO BUST THIS GHOST BEFORE SHE REVEALS HER TRUE POWER! ...THAT DOESN'T MEAN TRY TO GET INTO THE RING PEOPLE! SECURITY!"

Gauntlet Battle

---

Brad's Misdreavus | Level 23 |
Health: 50% (34/67 HP)
Status: I talk with a wisp ~; Normal
Misdreavus used a successful Will-o-Wisp!

VS

Justin's Freyja | Level 28 |
Health: 92% (66/71 HP)
Status: It burns when I bite...; Burned
Freyja used a successful Crunch!
Freyja was hurt by her burn...

[Tyger]

The ghost Pokemon seemed to have a few tricks up her sleeve, and didn't mind hinting at it. The mischevious Pokemon flitted about until it was time to shine. Brad gave the command, and a burning wisp was all that came from it. Freyja seemed unaffected until the wisp burned her, even through her thick hide and thick head. "Yikes..." The crowd went wild with glee at the thought of a status effect slowly widdling the battle down. Justin needed to get out of this battle, and fast. The last thing he needed was Freyja slowly getting weaker and weaker, and with Brad's plan, another status was probably soon to come.

Thinking again, Justin watched as Freyja crunched the ghost in front of her. The crowd was going wild, and he thought a few people were trying to get into the ring. At least, that's what it sounded like. "Freyja, hang in there. We've got this. Just stay strong. Go in for another Crunch." Justin much preferred the idea of attacks happening, versus statuses that he couldn't help. Confusion was popular with ghosts, as was burning and cursing and hexing and whatever else the crazy Pokemon did. It was nerve wracking, to say the least. As much as the crowd loved the Doctor's strategy, Justin didn't. With a flash, Justin's Pignite Rhoan came out of her Pokeball to watch the shenanigans happen. "Just don't move. I don't want them to think you're about to try and battle or something." "Relaaaaax. That ghost wouldn't know what hit her. We wanna keep it interesting, don't we?" "No, I want to keep it fast and quick so we can get out of here." "If only your love life felt the same way. Oh wait!" Rhoan snickered, and Justin rolled his eyes. He didn't have a love life. Silly pig.

Freyja shook her head and winced a few times at the burn she'd just received. Every time so limped, wriggled or even looked uncomfortable, Justin felt awful. She'd been abused, and the last thing he wanted was for her to think he was doing the same to her. How do you train an abused Pokemon? She wanted to get stronger, so he had to just take it a day at a time, and let her know she was loved. Hopefully she still felt that way in the large crowd, facing down the strange ghost in front of her.

[Tiki]

Indeed that this Misdreavus was crazy, tricky, and has many sleeves to hide tricks. If the appearance of the phantom and its first round of attack weren't bothering Justin enough, then the second round would be. Just a look at the ghost Pokemon's eyes would tell you how mischievous and playful it would be.

"Don't you worry, we've got this battle too! Doctor Brad got your Trapinch burned, and now he's going to send you to the ER! Misdreavus, Hex!" the doctor in scrubs ordered his Pokemon, and the ghost type prepared to execute the move before Freyja could retaliate. Misdreavus's eyes glowed a crimson red, and then the ground type's body also glowed the same hue of red. The move was a special category type of move, and the Trapinch looked worn out and exhausted from the ghost type's mental attack.

"WOAH! Look at that! Looks like you need to visit plastics and the psych after this burn! Don't forget your annual body check up!" The announcer chimed in, commenting on the power of that Hex attack. The crowd clapped, or half of the crowd, clapped along to that joke as they kept their eyes fixed on this second-to-last round of battle.

Next, the Trapinch used the last bit of her health to manage a chomp on the ghost type. The adorable ant dashed along the ground like a warrior ant looking for the troublemaker, and then when she got close to the Misdreavus, she leaped and took a big bite of that ghost.

The ghost type passed out right away, falling to the ground. Then, right after that, the ground type winced in pain from the burn, and on the battlefield it appeared that both Pokemon passed out.

Perhaps, accidents do happen like accidentally pass out your own Pokemon.

"WOW! If you can't see this you better call the Optometrist or ask someone who can see. This battle is a draw for both sides! JUUSST ONE more battle for Tiger to complete the challenge!" The announcer roared, and the crowd cheered at the intensity of this battle.

"Oooh, nice! You have fun with the next challenge while I wind down from my work, okay? You did a good job, Misdreavus, return!" the doctor spoke, stretching his shoulders from the fatigue of work and then returned his Pokemon. He quickly left the stage for another challenger to take over.

"Hey you! I've been watching you since I got off work at 9. Do you know that janitors have to clean off your sticky soft drink spills in the hall? Or if you vomit on the side of our building? It's been a long day for me, so I'm making sure I get my battle worth here in the Gauntlet. I am Chris and this is my Garbodor. My Pokemon loves to clean up a drunken college student party and pick up their red plastic cups," The challenger took over Brad and sent out the poison type Pokemon. The janitor spoke, who sounded much older and crankier than the challenger before him. Not to mention that before his Garbodor was sent out, he smelt a little bit of bleach and lemon-flavored soap stain on his clothes somewhere.

Gauntlet Battle

---

Brad's Misdreavus | Level 23 |
Health: 0/67
Status: Normal
Misdreavus used HEX... 1337 HAXXOR!
Then fainted after the Crunch.

VS

Justin's Freyja | Level 28 |
Health: 0/71
Status: Burned; the ant got burned,
Freyja used a successful Crunch!
Fainted from Burn.

---

Freyja got no experience from fainting...
Happiness -1, now +12.


Janitor Chris sent out (Level 24) Garbodor!

Please select the next Pokemon and move to continue.

OOC: I was going to do Pain Split but I RNG and it says Hex.
Misdreavus moves first with Hex, then Trapinch KO Misdreavus.
Then Burned happen and your Trapinch fainted.
#I told everyone my RNG is capable of fainting

And then I have no idea if Timburr would get exp share, I think he still does because he isn't fainted.


I feel like I am rambling but not organizing this in a nice manner. It's like am I missing some transition words?

[Tyger]

The battle seemed to be going in Justin's favor, until Misdreavus let out what was probably her best attack. Hex was rough, especially since Freyja was burned, and there wasn't anything Justin could do about it at this point. Cringing as Freyja took the massive attack, he was flabbergasted to see that she'd still lived through it! Her crunch attack took down the mischevious ghost in another successful chomp, and the crowd cheered. "Freyja, you did it! That was awesome! I'm so proud of you!" The Ant Lion seemed to have trouble walking, but was basking in the praise all the same.

She took a few steps forward, but then stopped, wincing. Brad seemed to know what was happening, and Justin gritted his teeth as Freyja flopped into the floor from the pain of the burn. Surely a doctor would have more concern for a burned Pokemon? Either way, Brad was out and it seemed as though a janitor was coming down to clean up the remains of the battle. "Freyja!" Stumbling forward, Justin picked up the weak ant lion and pressed his forehead to hers. "Freyja i'm so sorry, are you okay?" 

If he weren't in front of a huge amount of people, he'd be ready to cry. His one Pokemon he was trying to hard to stay on her goodside was now trounced in battle, and it was all his fault. However, Freyja opened her eyes weakly and nuzzled his face, surprising the photographer immensly. "Wait, you're not mad?" Not expecting an answer from the quiet Pokemon, Freyja didn't surprise on that front, but still clicked her jaws together in a reassuring manner. "I'm sorry, still... We'll get you all right and ready when we're finished here, okay?"

This seemed to appease Freyja, although the janitor was starting to talk to him now about messes and whatever else he was babbling about. Justin put the pieces together, and assumed that this was the last Gauntlet member. As eccentric and strange as his words, the man sent out a Pokemon that matched the same eccentric manner. A giant pile of... trash? Surprised and slightly disgusted, Justin recoiled and held Freyja before returning the tired Pokemon. Allow me to battle. Let me show up this trash for you, so we can get Freyja back home safe. A familiar voice graced Justin's ear, and the photographer let out a sigh of relief. Of course! He still had one Pokemon left to choose. Any of his Pokemon could probably trounce this guy, but thankfully, he had one in particular that could do it quickly. 

"Knock 'em dead, Surreo." Justin released the Gallade, who stood quietly for a few moments before his blades extended, creating a longer arm sillouette and probably impressing the crowd. "This is for Freyja." Psyshock. You ready? Born ready.