Brain Versus Brawn [F]

[The REAL Joey]

If there was one thing Joey had felt above all else whilst staying in the coastal city of Cianwood, it was that of luck. He had washed ashore when the odds were not in his favour. Instead, he narrowly avoided being stranded on some far off island or worse still, lying at the bottom of the ocean. The other facet to his feeling of luck was encountering the legendary beasts for a second time. The fact they prevailed and pulled through the challenge set forward to them only highlighted this further. Last but not least was the fact he had managed to revive his partner, Slash from slipping into a permanent comatose state. At this point, Joey felt almost on top of the world. Wanting to continue his lucky streak there was only one thing for it. To challenge the gym and win. Whilst he was glad to have luck on his side, he was sure he could ascertain victory with his Pokemon through their efforts. Having retrieved his clothes by sending a Pokemon back to the room in Olivine and returning back, Joey now strolled up the main city street, his eyes affixed to the Pokemon Gym itself. Given how beaten and worn the rest of the houses were on this coastal retreat, it wasn't too hard as it was one of the only truly modernised buildings. "Alright, time to get in the zone. Another city, another badge." Looking down to his jacket's lapel, he beamed proudly. If he secured this, that would leave merely two more badges. Then he would have his shot at clearing his name. Arriving at the building, he took in its sight before he shifted into looking for the usual sign post that was kept outside.

Given he was from Kanto, he knew very little of the gym leaders situated in Johto so a lot of the time, he was walking in blind. These sign posts allowed for some insight at the very least, no matter how vague they were. "So what we got here, eh? Lessee what the sign says." His eye flicking over the text, he read the words out loud. "Cianwood City Gym. Leader: Chuck - His Roaring Fists Do The Talking." Pulling bit of a thoughtful look over his face, the titles these leaders had almost gave the game away. "Sounds to me he's a guy that likes a good fight. I may very well have met my match here. Oh well, keep us good Lady Luck." Taking in a deep breath, he composed himself as he looked at the reflection in the glass doors. He was at least out of the garish tourist garb Calistra had shrouded him in and back in his usual threads. "Ain't nothin' to it." Feeling confident, he took a step further as the doors opened up. Surprisingly, it wasn't his step that had done it. Instead, it was the person behind the doors. Bumping right into the colossal mountain like person, Joey took a step back and looked up, fixating his eyes on what on earth he had just walked into. The behemoth themselves also appeared to look back at Joey. Although this was more the look of a human paying heed to a mere ant. "WATCH WHERE YOU'RE GOING SHRIMP." Glaring his eye, Joey responded back without delay. "Maybe you oughta lay off the 'roids. Meathead." The two exchanging glances, it seemed neither had particular reason to take the matter any further. Pushing past one another, Joey had far greater concerns in sealing his victory with this gym. Although the muscled man had what appeared to be a near copy of the outfit Calistra had made for Joey. Slapping his face and shaking his head with disdain, he pressed on with entering the gym.

No sooner than he had entered the building was he awed by the sheer size of it. "Woah, woah... I thought this was gonna be all prim and tidy like most of the other gyms! This is... Damn." His words failing him, he looked around from side to side, up and down and all around as it appeared the gym itself was merely a front for the actual contents. And by that, it was the fact the gym was connected in with what could only be described as a massive cavern etched into the mountainside. With how seamless the building meshed in, Joey took further steps and finally regained some of his charisma. "Now THIS is what you call an arena." A flowing waterfall, a central ring that greatly resembled that of a sumo's pitch and an all around impressive atmosphere meant Joey was all too eager to get this show rolling. "Doesn't seem like there's anybody around though." Not a master of tactility, Joey cupped his hand and yelled out. If it had worked for all the other gyms, surely it would work here as well. "OOOOOOOOI! ANYBODY HOME? I'M READY TO TAKE ON THE CHALLENGE!" Letting his voice almost echo throughout the cavern, he squinted his eyes as he was sure he almost saw a figure within the incredible flowing waterfall. "Was that...? Nah..." Chalking it up almost to his imagination, it seemed unlikely someone would be enduring the fierce crushing stream of that water.

OOC: Using x1 Rare Candy on Mephisto. Updated.

[Morrigan]

vs Gym Leader Chuck
__________________________________

Joey's voice echoing throughout the Gym, the cavern like walls caused his call to reverberate loudly, not that it could overcome the sound of the crashing waterfall in the centre of the arena like Gym. As he ventured a little further inside, his eyes did not deceive him in the slightest, as sat smack in the middle of the crashing water was a fairly large figure. Sitting in a cross legged position on a rock in the middle of the pool of water, the man appeared to be meditating, it was an act that wasn't unheard of when it came to the world of martial arts. Something as strenuous as this was likely part of a normal, daily routine for any well respected fighter. Joey's footsteps echoing in closer, although his call hadn't done anything to budge the male, his well trained senses did. Picking up on the aura of a challenger, the man who sat within the waterfall suddenly let out a mighty "HI-YAAAAAAH!" as he stood from his spot and lept out from the waterfall. Landing on his side of the ring, a bulk of a man stood, sweat and water dripping off of his toned yet somewhat chunky body. "Who dares to spoil my training?!" His deep voice boomed with intimidation as his line of sight fell upon Joe.

Looking at the male up and down, he could see that Joe himself had a fit and athletic physique but nothing good enough to impress Chuck. "You're here to challenge me?! I'll have you know that my fists do the talking! HOOORAAAAH!" All of a sudden, the man turned to the side, lunging his fist into a boulder nearby and with a single punch, cracked it right down the centre. Hoping that if he showed off his strength, he could ultimately intimidate and scare off Joe, Chuck was somewhat impress to see him stick around. A smirk stretching across his face from underneath his moustache, Chuck let out a bellowing laugh. "HAHAHA! You didn't even flinch! Most would run out of here with their tails between their legs after witnessing my strength!" Pounding a fist against his chest proudly, it seemed Chuck was atleast willing to battle now. "You're either brave or ignorant. No matter, I accept your challenge!" A bit different from other Gym Leaders, Chuck preferred to always have atleast one wild card Pokemon, one that even he didn't know until he threw the ball. Looking across his selection, his large hand chose one and with a mighty throw, revealed his option.

Standing before Chuck was a Heracross, the bug Pokemon immediately stomping it's foot down akin to the movements of a sumo wrestler, it's torso leaning forward, already ready to attack. Grinning at his choice, Chuck looked back to Joe, "I am warning you, I am tough! My Pokemon can crush rocks and shatter bones! Hahaha! Try not to be scared! C'mon, let's get this battle started!"

Gym Leader Chuck has accepted your challenge!

Chuck sends out his Wild Card Pokemon, a Heracross (Level 38)!
Please select a Pokemon to use in battle.

[The REAL Joey]

The moment he took his eyes off the waterfall itself, he was immediately drawn back to it as it seemed as if his initial suspicions of something lurking within the streaming waterfall was true. Hearing the sound of a mighty battle cry ring out throughout the arena, Joey tensed his muscles up as he assumed a defiant stance. "Dunno what the hell's up but i'll take it head on." He reassured himself as he watched a sizeable figure come leaping out of the waterfall. The fact he had such incredible strength to perform a leap of that calibre let alone push off up against the falling water itself spoke greatly of the figure's strength. Taking in the sight of this bulky person, Joey leered his eyes coolly as he sported a small smirk over his face. "Disturb yer trainin'? Don't you get many challengers out here, eh?" If this guy sit under a waterfall from day to day as part of his schedule, things must've been quiet. Observing the booming martial artist take in his very own appearance, Joey let out a small grunt of chagrin as it seemed as if from the man's body language he wasn't too impressed. However, there would be no insult from the fighter.

Instead, he boomed out, repeating the tag line Joey had read on the gym sign. "Haha, I can see that. Definitely won't be tryin' to enter too much of a long chat with 'em." Having interjected quickly with his quip, Joey had not been prepared for the gym leader's sudden outburst of his fist going crashing into a nearby boulder. His eyes widening, Joey said nothing. He liked to think he was strong. A lot of the time it was through sheer determination and a high pain tolerance he came off as tough but then there was sheer brute strength like this which as could be seen evidential from the boulder that had just been struck, rivalled the blows Pokemon themselves could use. Flicking his eye coolly back to the man, he was relaxed a little to see him laugh up the situation. "Yeah, well, I ain't goin' anywhere until I get that badge." His head gesturing over to the side of the gym, it seemed as if the gym's logo was that of a fist like design, no doubt what the badge was fashioned over. Feeling a little apprehensive, he was entering this battle without the inclusion of Slash. Not only did he work best as a utility battler but he was also something of a good luck charm. Recovering from the rest of his injuries at the Pokemon Centre, it meant Joey and the rest of the team were left to their own devices. Hearing him accept his challenge, Joey cracked his neck from side to side before punching a closed fist into the open palm of his other hand. "Heheheh, I guess some people call me stupid but i'd like to just chalk it up to guts."

Liking the fact this Chuck gym leader was very much an up front type of person, it was a far cry from a number of trainers he had battled recently. Given how indomitable and headstrong he was, it made feel Joey right at home. There were a number of such characters back in his gang and the biker federation back in Kanto. Watching him take a pick out a number of Pokeballs, Joey raised an eyebrow confusedly. Everyone was limited to six but it appeared he had over the limit. "Hey, what's the deal? You got a whole dojo there waitin' to fight or what?" Noting the inclusion of a rather tempered looking Heracross looming on the opponents side of the battlefield, Joey cocked a grin as he decided on how best to deal with this. He had a variety of Pokemon to call upon but it was the insistence of one who had decided to tag along on the rescue mission to pick Joe up after being washed ashore he would resort to. Taking out the Pokeball from the back of his belt holster, his hand slipped out of his jacket from behind as he held the Pokeball in front of him. He had some qualms with using a Pokemon that had gone out and caused so much havoc but he suppose everyone deserved a second chance. That and he was eager to test out whether what happened all those years ago in Saffron had any weight to it. His mentor had always spoke of the saying brain versus brawn. Thinking of how easily the fighting gym in Saffron was disbanded thanks to Sabrina and her group of psychics, it was going to be a worthwhile test.

"Hey man, I don't doubt your Pokemon can do that. 'Specially if you can do so yourself. Can't imagine it'd be too hard if you're trainin' 'em." Tossing his Pokeball forward, he finally called upon his choice. "Mephisto! Yer up!" Revealing the brooding psychic, the Alakazam had a devious grin plastered all over his face but he had his back turned to Joey not to raise any suspicion. It must have looked particularly creepy to Chuck's side at the very least. With the life orb containing the despot king he had felled back in Ecruteak, Mephisto had certainly come along way in his appearance. "To think all that time back in Goldenrod with the heatwave... You sure came a long way Meph." Letting his spoons float, the Psychic Pokemon would have rather forgotten such an incident. "Dummkopf, the less said the better. I have come here as... Apology. For my discretions." "Yes, yeeees... You think that you oafish buffoon. Now i'm evolved my powers will ensnare your mind and make you my pawn! Gahahahahahahaah!" Explaining the situation, Joey spoke out. "Alright, here's the deal. I'll forgive ya for that little incident if you help me out with Chuck here." The psychic's eyes shifting over creepily to Chuck and his Heracross, the psychic spoke out matter of factly. "They are of no consequence. My unrivalled brain will crush them. Harrumph!" Letting out a hearty laugh, Joey nodded. "That's what I like to hear! Let's get this brawl goin'. Use Psyshock!" Letting the orb he possessed power him up as his aura began to manifest, Mephisto madly spoke to himself. "Just you wait, you FOOL. You'll be so elated with this gym victory your mind will be ripe for the taking! GAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

[latani]

Vs. Gym Leader Chuck
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

"Plenty of people come in wanting the badge, bucko. What makes you stand out from the rest of 'em?" Chuck countered, his jovial expression not faltering one bit. It was an honest question, one the beefy man wondered if his opponent would deign to answer. "HOOHAHAHA! A dojo! You're a really funny one!" he laughed, giving his stomach a good slap that barely rippled the skin, evidence of his extreme training regime. "Kids used to pick my team apart, with me using the same old Pokémon over and over. I figure I'd even the odds by throwing in one random choice to keep them on their toes. Hahaha, a real stroke of brilliance on my end!" His Heracross shifted as the two trainers spoke, extremely eager to get battling again, having gone quite a while without a good fight.

Even when Mephisto was sent out, the fighting Bug threw its majestic horn up in readiness. Chuck, however, was a little more cautious as he looked over the Alakazam, an unfamiliar sight in his gym. "Don't look like much of a brawler, too scrawny. Guess it must be one of those fancy pants Psychic types. Be ready for anything," he said to his Heracross, mask of amusement falling away to a more serious expression appropriate for battling. Heracross' hidden wings sprang out, carrying it forwards at the same time Mephisto began to power up. Dropping to the ground again, Heracross lowered his head so that his deadly horn was pointed directly at the mad Psychic-type. But unfortunately for him, there would be no exciting fight for him this time.

For Mephisto's aura grew in intensity until a mental push sent a wave of it oozing out, a sickly purple-pink massing of psychic energy that hung ominously in the air above Heracross. Another lightning fast push with Mephisto's twisted mind forced the energy into powerful, compact spheres that converged on Heracross all at once. Thrashing around as the immense psychic strike hit, the bug didn't last more than a few seconds before crashing to the ground, blacking out from the hot pulse of agony that had flashed through his body in an unstoppable wave.

Gym Leader Battle

---

Chuck's Heracross | ♂ | Level 38 |
Health: 0% (0/120 HP)
Status: ...; Fainted!

VS

Joey's Mephisto | ♂ | Level 38 |
Health: 90% (91/101 HP)
Status: Next feeble mind to break, please; Normal
Mephisto used a successful Psyshock!
Mephisto was hurt from Life Orb recoil!

---

Mephisto fought well and gained +950 Exp!


Voltek gleaned from the battle and gained +950 Exp!

---

"PHWOAH! Heracross!" exclaimed Chuck, striding forwards to shake the unconscious bug. Realizing the futility, he recalled his Pokémon and hastily straightened up, a fierce gleam twinkling in his eyes. "Don't think it'll be this easy with all my Pokémon. They've all taken turns sitting under that water with me!" the leader warned, sending forth his second choice. A Primape, snorting wildly and punching at the air, landed before Chuck, hopping from foot to foot as if unable to stop moving for a mere instant.

---

Gym Leader Chuck is sending out his Primeape (Level 39)!
Will you switch Pokémon?

[The REAL Joey]

Coming to appreciate Chuck's larger than life character, it was apparent he was the brash sort of person that spoke of what they thought. Typically it wasn't always the best type of character to have but coupled with his other traits, it meant he was easy enough to be around. Hearing him boom out his question about why he wanted the badge, Joey flashed a cocky grin and laughed. "Wanting the badge? I'm damn near hungering for it. I know others likely share the same dream. Get the badges, become the champ. And in a way, I must seem like just any other challenger t'ya. But it's the motivation behind why I want to become champ that matter. Sure, it's not as if it's gonna end world hunger or cure the world of nasty diseases. But its something personally to me I have to do and i'm gonna do everything within my power to achieve it. If you don't try, you don't get anywhere." Having had this issue with Jasmine prior, he wanted to be frank about why he was doing this. To clean his name from all the pinned wrong doings he had done, that and the actual bumps with the law, so he could return home. If he had the diplomatic immunity of the champion, there's nothing that the law would be able to do. It was a sneaky loophole and one he was hoping to capitalise on. The only issue was if people would understand. It was all too easy seeing the world in black and white with no grey in between. Running a hand over his stubbly face, Joey listened to Chuck's explanation over such a wide selection. "Huh, guess variety is the spice of life after all. You must be pretty confident in all of your choices if you have such a wide range to pick from. This Heracross looks tough as it is." His eyes fleeting to the actual beetle itself, it was all too clear this was a Pokemon that had been tempered through the extremities of battle. Concluding on Chuck's decided inclusion, Joey chuckled. "Guess you ain't all brawn in that case. Most leaders i've faced seem to rely on the same old. You hang around the area long enough and you kinda get the drop from the other challengers."

Hearing Chuck size up Mephisto, Joey pondered if many other challengers had bothered using such a Pokemon. Not wanting the dedicated body builder to mistake this scrawny Psychic type for nothing, Joey spoke out. "Y'know, he may not exactly be the beefiest but Mephisto here... Well. I bet he could crush that boulder you slammed into without even touchin' it. Just the power of his mind. Strength whether it comes from sheer muscle or the power of the mind is still strength. Pure an' simple." Pleased, Joey was glad to see he at least forewarned his Pokemon of potential trouble on the horizon. Turning to Mephisto, Joey called out in encouragement. "Alright Mephisto, it's all up to you. Show 'em what you got!" Watching as the Psi Pokemon powered up utilising his peerless brainwaves to stimulate his psychic energy as well as the powerful transference of the king's soul in the orb, it meant even Joey would be taken aback by just how far Mephisto's strength had become. "Fufufufufu... FOOLISH INSECT. BOW BEFORE THE MIGHT OF MEPHISTO!" The delusional Psychic called out. Letting an onslaught of his energy shunter forward, the impact on the Heracross was all too visible. Cleanly knocking it out without so much enduring a scratch from the beetle, Mephisto eventually powered down having used all his power in a short burst. Feeling his body convulse somewhat, the Alakazam wasn't aware that the spirit of the king in the orb was still bloodthirsty for revenge. "Gnghrk--!! Despite being able to tap into its power... It's draining my own vitality? My lifeforce? NEIN!" Allowing Chuck to see to his Pokemon, Joey moved in to check on Mephisto. If anything this was almost akin to a boxing match with the coaches offering their guidance and refreshment in between rounds.

"Hey, what's up? Looks like you felt a brunt of the blow too from that." Composing himself, the big headed psychic turned to look at Joey and dismissed his observation. "You speak nonsense, dummkopf. My power knows no limits. You will see." Turning back with his arms drooping lazily gripping onto his two spoons, Joey's side of the fight look over to what Chuck was up to. Seeing him brush off the clash, it appeared he still had fight left to spare. "You must have a pretty tough training regime. The force of that waterfall looks intense." His eyes gazing over, Joey wondered if he could even withstand such a constant beating. As the next Pokemon was selected, Joey tensed as he noted what it was. "A Primeape! Woah... They're one angry customer. Don't let it get close, Meph." Letting his orb swirl around through merely thinking it into movement, Mephisto didn't seem impressed. "Hmph! A mere buffoonish baboon." As the wrathful Pokemon was unable to keep still, it was a complete juxtaposition to Mephisto's own stance as he simply remained still on the spot. "Why don't we shake this up and go with a Psychic? I remember you bein' able to use that all the way back." Letting out a condescending snort, Mephisto began to utilise his mind's power as well as the orb once more. "Harrumph. Be still." His eyes flashing, it was a little perturbing to say the least. Perhaps the restless movements had begun to grate on Mephisto's nerves.

[Morrigan]

vs Gym Leader Chuck
__________________________________

Being located on a small island at the edge of the Johto region, it wasn't often that Chuck would get visiting trainers. Many would travel to this point and find the journey across the sea from Olivine to be too much hard work, especially with tales at the possibility of becoming lost within Whirl Islands along the way. The rough sea was known to have the occasional whirl pool, which were dangerous when drawn into. But the few trainers that did arrive often intrigued Chuck and it was his duty to test if they were worthy for his badge or not. Looking to Joe with a complex look, the hulking man appeared to take in his words and ponder on them. "Hmmmm." Tilting his head from left to right, a large grin slowly spread across his face. From Chuck's point of view, he may have looked rough around the edges but the glint in Joey's eyes were genuine. "I don't really get it but if you want the badge, be sure to give it your all." Smacking a hand against his chiselled chest, the fighting type leader boomed into laughter. "I like a challenger who puts up a fight. If you want it that badly, then I know I am in for a good battle!"

Right before his very eyes, his Heracross had fainted but now his prideful and sturdy Primeape stood up to the challenge. Fur rustling wildly, it shot venomous glares at Mephisto, mock punching at air toward the Psychic type. "HAHAHA! Just cant hold back any longer, eh? Go on in there and attack, Primeape!" Giving the raging ape full reign on the battle, the Pokemon snorting wildly and began to leap forward. But still standing cool and calm on the spot, Mephisto's skills meant that Primeape would never be able to land a single punch. Around the furry ape came a gentle, blue glow and soon enough, it found itself running on the spot, not getting any closer to Mephisto what so ever. Noticing some strange goings on, the Primeape stopped in it's tracks, only to realise it hadn't moved a single inch due to Mephisto using his powers levitate the Pokemon off of the ground! All of a sudden, waves of psychic energy began striking the hovering Primeape from all angles, flooding it's mind with migraine inducing pain. Being unable to cope at this point, the Primeape made one last attempt to break free from it's psychic trap but it was unsuccessful and it's last remaining bit of energy was drained in a flash.

---

Primeape: | Level 39 |
Health: 0% (0/85 HP)
Status: Normal
...

VS

Mephisto: | Level 38 | Item: Life Orb
Health: 100% (101/101 HP)
Status: Normal
Mephisto used Psychic!

---

Primeape has been defeated!


Mephisto gained 1950 experience and grew to Level 38!



Voltek gained 1950 experience due to holding Experience Share and grew to Level 40!

---

"H-HUH?! Primeape too?!" The voice of Chuck boomed in dismay as the Primeape's body soon slumped against the ground. Blinking his eyes slowly, rather than being hateful, Chuck seemed to grow excited. "Ha! Haha! HAHAHA! YES! This is the challenge I wanted!" His eyes wild with adrenaline, the bulking male withdrew Primeape and finally sent out his final partner, a Poliwrath.

Gym Leader Chuck is sending out his Poliwrath (Level 41)!
Will you switch Pokémon?

OOC: Mephisto isn't hurt by Life Orb damage due to it's Magic Guard ability.

[The REAL Joey]

Watching Chuck carefully contemplate his words, Joey was relieved to see a wide grin rivalling Joe's own spread over the bulky man's face. "Don't you worry. So far i've done a fair few gyms and not once did I slack in doing what had to be done in order to earn it. If there's one thing I gotta say, it's you Johto lot are a tough bunch." Thinking back to all the hallowed reputations of the Kanto gym leaders and having even watched their televised matches, Joey had understood gym leaders were a cut above the rest and if people didn't train for the fight accordingly, they were bound to lose. The same thing applied here in Johto but at least he was ahead of the curve. Perhaps what Jasmine had seemed confused about by doing her gym out of order made some sense now. "As long as you and may don't have to tussle for the badge one on one after. Don't get me wrong, I love a good scrap but I think you got me plenty beat on that department haha!" Sharing a laugh with the heart gym leader, Joey looked back to the two Pokemon they had sent in and what progress would be made in this round.

Noting the Pokemon jabbing at the air profusely, it was very much apparent Mephisto was going to take a harsh beating if he failed to subdue the opponent here and now. "Harrumph. Enough of your antics." Finally exerting his awesome psychic power on the primal ape, the Alakazam wasted no effort in laying siege to the Pokemon. "Tremble in fear at the might of Mephisto! Know! Your! Place!" Placing emphasis on the last three words as a burst of psychic energy shot out for each of his words uttered, Mephisto was angered somewhat as the Primeape put up one last bit of resistance. "FOOL!" Delivering the coup de grace, he eventually stopped harnessing him in the air with his telekinesis and allowed him to drop to the floor rather ungracefully. With yet another round successfully won, Joey let out a cheer. "Wooooooh! You're putting up a damn good fight Mephisto. Maybe I oughta have you tag along more often." Leering his eyes, the Pokemon folded his arms as he looked over his shoulder. "Hmph. Do as you will." "Or not. I will bend your will to my own and you'll be no more than a mere puppet as I strive to conquer this pitiable world. Gahahahahaha!" Getting sidetracked with his delusions grandeur, the Alakazam had become distracted whilst Joey had been checking out Chuck's last hurdle.

"Woah. That a Poliwrath? A good friend of mine trained one of those. If there's one thing I came to learn, its not to underestimate 'em." Turning to Mephisto, Joey nodded. "Same goes to you. These things pack a punch." Changing his attention back to Chuck, Joey grinned as he craned his arm around before clicking his neck left and right, all the while sporting his trademark grin. "This'll be a challenge alright. Sparks are gonna fly. Brains versus brawns. Guess this is all gonna come down to whether or not the brain can utilise its psychic ability faster than the brawn can throw its punch." Folding his arms, Joey decided on a move. "Here's how we're gonna play it. Go for another Psychic, Mephisto." His body shimmering as he began building up his psychic ability, it was clear the Pokemon was one step ahead. "Hmph! Already on it, dummkopf. Time for another peon to learn of my might!"

OOC: Derp, even I forgot about Magic Guard. Whole reason why I did that Life Orb + Alakazam combo was because of that.

[latani]

Vs. Gym Leader Chuck
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Unvarnished pride gleamed out from Chuck's gaze, a well earned sort that kept him buoyant even in the face of certain defeat. "Tough? HA! Of course Johto's leaders are tough! Don't want any young upstarts thinking they can walk all over us!" he all but bellowed, voice drowning out the roar of the cascading water behind him. If they weren't challenging for trainers, they may as well just hand badges out like candy. But beating them was about overcoming, being on the same wavelength as their hard-working Pokémon, and that sense of triumph in emerging victorious. "Don't give this old man any ideas now!" Chuck replied to Joey's worry of wrestling for the badge, a deep laugh rumbling out. Despite the losses he suffered thus far, this battle had been an entertaining one, at least in regards to his challenger.

Most trainers were either too serious or lost in nervousness, making Joe's personality a breath of fresh air. While the two humans conversed, Poliwrath narrowed his eyes as Mephisto babbled to himself. Strongly regarded as the ace of Chuck's team, the bulky Pokémon was hardly a pushover, and saw little in Mephisto aside from a creature who had developed an unfortunate habit of talking to himself. "Poliwrath is one of my oldest friends, and my most powerful. Even with your talented Pokémon there, we won't make this easy on ya," said Chuck, nodding at his partner as Poliwrath flexed his muscles in an attempt to intimidate his foe. Mephisto was either preoccupied or simply did not care for the display, spoons already awash in the blue glow that heralded his attack.

"Brace yourself!" roared the leader, recognizing the glow from his Primeape's utter defeat, praying fervently under his breath. Poliwrath ignored the command to hustle forwards, confident enough that his physical strength would easily overwhelm the fragile looking Alakazam. But just as he had done before, Mephisto stopped him with a mere thought and lifted the Poliwrath into the air. It was easy enough to punch psychic energy right into Poliwrath's mind, the mental assault overwhelming and instant, Poliwrath's mind blinking out like a light. Releasing his hold on the Fighting-type, Mephisto smirked broadly as Poliwrath dropped limply and sprawled out on the ground before his shocked trainer.

Gym Leader Battle

---

Chuck's Poliwrath | ♂ | Level 41 |
Health: 0% (0/137 HP)
Status: ...; Fainted!

VS

Joey's Mephisto | ♂ | Level 38 |
Health: 90% (91/101 HP)
Status: Barely worth the brain power; Normal
Mephisto used a successful Psychic!

---

Mephisto fought valiantly and gained +1025 Exp!


Voltek gleaned from the battle and gained +1025 Exp!

---

Shaking his head with a hoarse apology to his Pokémon, Chuck returned Poliwrath to his ball and gave his stomach another slap. "Well I'll be! Bested without even landing a punch! Be proud of yourself for such a feat," the beefy man boomed, reaching into hidden pockets of his attire to extract Joey's prizes. Striding over with fists clenched, it almost seemed as if he was actually intending to wrestle Joey, but the grin on his face said otherwise. "To the victor go the spoils! Money, a nice Focus Punch TM, and the badge of course!" Chuck rattled off as he handed over the prizes.

Behind them the door creaked open, a slender auburn haired woman slipping inside with a stormy expression. She poked Chuck in the stomach, not gently, and tsked at him. "Look at you! So caught up in your gym you've hardly been caring for yourself. This is why you need to spend some time at home!" the woman said in a reproachful tone. Chuck leaned down and planted a kiss smack on her lips instead, grinning at her flustered response. "Yes, my dear wife. Maybe I'll start training more than just my mind eh?" he laughed, much to her chagrin. Rolling her eyes, Chuck's wife walked over to Joey with a friendly smile, hands shifting to place another disc on top of Joey's other prizes.

"Thank you for inspiring this big lout. I know it's not much, but that HM contains the move Fly. I'm sure a trainer strong enough to defeat my husband can make use of that, hmm?" she said with a dry chuckle, walking back over to Chuck to tug at his hands and lead him out of the gym, leaving Joey and Mephisto to their own devices.

---

Congratulations!
You have defeated Gym Leader Chuck!


Joey was presented with the Storm Badge!
You may now use the moves Fly and Whirlpool outside of battle!


Joey was also presented with TM01 Focus Punch and HM02 Fly!

Earned £4,465 in winnings!

[The REAL Joey]

Beaming wildly, Joey laughed as Chuck made it clear they weren't going to be a bunch of pushovers. "Haha, I bet. Young Kanto upstarts specifically as well, eh?" Clearly referring to himself, he was aware of the well documented rivalries between Kanto and Johto throughout history. An uneasy peace between them, it had lasted for a while but when it came to battles and contests, there was usually more of a spark between competitors of those two nationalities than between other regions. Looking down at his now crowded jacket lapel, he thumbed at the collection he had earnt and continued on. "I've faced quite a few now. Violet, Azalea, Goldenrod, Ecruteak, Olivine and now Cianwood. Rate i'm going it won't be long before I can take this to the Pokemon League. Considering our two regions share the same league, i've at least got some sort of head start on who to face." Patting the badges, he smiled in reminiscent manner. "One thing i'll take from this region though, you guys delivered on the thrills." He was made an outlaw and fled to this region in exile but it didn't mean he couldn't seek out some adventure on the side to sate his hunger. If there was one thing Joey liked, it was walking on a razor's edge.

As their conversation came to an end, it was all too apparent to both sides what would happen next. It would be the beginning of their final clash. Knowing full well he was a step away from achieving another badge, Joey grinned in a cocksure manner as he could feel the adrenaline pump. Of course, if it wasn't going to be a clean victory, it meant they were in for some excitement. "Give it your all Meph. You heard the man, he and Poliwrath have got the advantage with all their experience." Narrowing his eyes, Mephisto shrugged off Joey's encouragement. At this point, unleashing his power to these muscle brained buffoons was mere child's play ill befitting a God such as he. "Fufufufu... Do not insult me, dummkopf. Once these are beaten, i'll take control of your mind. Before, you were able to block me out with your stupidity but if you open up from being so elated... Gahahahahaha!" Powering up as a result of his machinations, his body prepared itself as the Poliwrath was ordered into action. The endeavour was doomed from the start. Disposing of his enemy in a similar manner to the Primeape, the Alakazam didn't break a sweat as he mercilessly spared no ounce of mental energy to secure the victory. Tossing him back down with a flourish as he regained the spoons that had floated into air from the attack, Mephisto let out a smirk at how easy this had been.

"Haha! Hell yeah! Now that was the sorta fight you rarely get to see. Just two unstoppable forces going at it with no restraint. You did good Mephisto." His grin pinned from ear to ear, Joey was in full celebratory mode. And unlike the previous gym, he had come out of it with his Pokemon fully unscathed. His attention moving over as Chuck commented on the victory, Joey laughed. "Truth be told, I got the idea of challenging this way from what happened with that debacle back in Saffron City in Kanto. When I was young I remember when the city had two gyms and there was a rivalling war between the Fighting and Psychic type factions." As Chuck came over, Joey's grin failed to falter but deep down he was taken aback by just how colossal Chuck was. Given he was on the other side of the field it meant he failed to get a good grasp on his true proportions. Accepting the gifts, Joey pocketed them away one by one. "Awesome, new moves to the arsenal always go down well and an extra bit of dosh is gonna pay for the medical bills we made at the pharmacy for Slash." Last but least was the badge. Examining its fist like design, Joey let out a small chuckle as he pinned it to his lapel. Letting out a whistle, he counted his total. "Wow. Six badges. Two more and I get to put it all on the line." Looking back to Chuck, he was about to compliment the man's fighting style when the door opening drew his attention.

Considering there had been a door opening in his last gym fight prior, he was on edge that his estranged father had been sitting ringside watching the whole clash. Softening his gaze when he noticed the new entrant was a woman, he moved aside as it appeared the woman had a bone to pick with Chuck. Eventually realising they must be together, Joey couldn't help but laugh as she scolded him. Thankfully her jibe didn't go into a full out domestic, Joey was shocked when he had yet another bulkier disc case handed to him. "Huh?" He looked a bit blank. As Chuck's wife explained, it seemed she was thankful for his challenge with Chuck. "Wow, thanks. You know, this fight may have been a little one sided but i've really enjoyed my time here. Bit of banter with Chuck here, enjoyed Cianwood's beaches and the locals too. If this is Fly, i'll be sure to make my way back here to unwind now and again." His mind already made on who would be the first to receive this, he nodded his head in gratitude. Watching them exit, Joey turned to Mephisto and gave him a thumbs up. "All thanks to you, mate. I owe ya." Having been unnerved by the inclusion of another person on the scene, Mephisto had finally secured his chance. "Think nothing of it." "Although... I will accept your mind as for what you owe! Hnnnnngrh!" His powers growing and an aura appearing around him, he sent out a psychic takeover to try and reign Joey in as his pawn whilst muttering out loud. "Youlowlyfilthwillserveasmyslaveasiseefitinthenameofmephisto." Not paying attention to his mumbling, Joey packed away the prizes he had won. With a startled realisation from Mephisto, it seemed the same problem as before had arisen. Nothing was happening.

"Rest up my friend. We'll go and party hard later." Returning him without any inclination that he had just narrowly dodged his mind being hijacked, Mephisto attempted another short burst but to no avail. Feeling himself returned to the confines of his Pokeball, Mephisto felt himself falling through space as he looked up at the endless void above. "CURSE YOU JOEY! CURSE YOU DUMMKOPF! CURSE IT ALL! I AM A GOD!" With Mephisto under wraps, Joey was free to move on. "Right... Time to make use of this HM. Salazar is gonna be over the moon. Literally." Taking a look around the vicinity to be sure he had not been watched by any hidden spectators, Joey let out a decisive grunt as he turned around, exiting the gym himself. The gym now empty, a slow resounding clap was suddenly heard echoing through the cave like interior.

"Heh! The kid's got it." Whilst Joey had scanned his immediate level, it appeared he had failed to look up above near the top where the waterfall was sourced from. Standing there looking down with a crafty grin was none other than his father. Adjusting his hat, he leered his eyes. "Any luck he'll take me up on my offer. If not... Hahahahaha!" His fist clenching, it was armoured in a strange glove like contraption. Whether or not Royce had much faith in Joey betraying all that he stood for, it was obvious that if the confrontation ever arose, it would be in his favour, not his son's.

Unaware he had just missed the chance to take revenge against his father, Joey had returned to the Pokemon centre and after sorting out his party, made his way outside of the building. Summoning out Salazar, Joey grinned. "You are gonna love this new trick i'm gonna teach ya. Here." Imparting him the knowledge of flight, Salazar let out a shot of fire as he began flapping his mighty wings, eventually taking off. Soaring around the immediate skyline, performing all sorts of manoeuvres and acrobatics, it wasn't long before he returned. "Only my compañero could give such a gift. You stole this, no?" Sporting his loud grin, Joey laughed. "Hahaha. You know what this means right. We're gonna test this out. Like hell if i'm gonna surf my way back to the mainland if we can goddamn fly!" Lowering himself, Salazar allowed Joey to jump on and with a beating of his wings, began to heighten in altitude before the duo embarked on their flight back. "Wooooooooooooohoooooooooooooo yeah!!" Was all that could be heard as Joey yelled out, gripping onto his Charizard.

- Fin -