Pokémon: Day Bringer

Chapter 25: Ecruteak



The group continued their trek toward Ecruteak City, their pace a little quicker after the unexpected Team Rocket encounter. The day was getting late, and the sun began to dip behind the trees, casting a warm glow across the road.

Casey, who had been unusually quiet since the Team Rocket incident, finally spoke up, her voice a mix of curiosity and excitement. "So, Haru, you've been through a lot, right? I mean, you've got that Electivire, and you seem to know your way around battling. What's your goal as a trainer?"

Haru, who had been walking with his hands in his pockets, glanced at Casey. "My goal? It's simple: to be the best. But not just in battles—I want to prove that being a trainer means more than just winning badges. It's about connections with Pokémon, learning and growing together." He paused, thinking for a moment. "And besides, there's always something new to learn around every corner. What about you? What's your deal with Yellow and Black Pokémon?"

Casey's eyes lit up at the question. "Oh, right! My team, the Electivire squad, is like my pride and joy. Electivire's my absolute favorite. My first Pokémon was an Electrike, and after all the work I put into evolving it, it was like a sign that I was meant to have an Electivire." She grinned, as if recalling fond memories. "So, I'm kinda obsessed with finding the best Electric-type Pokémon, especially ones that match my team's colors. It's like my personal challenge."

Jessie overheard the conversation and added, "So, are you planning to become a Gym Leader or something? Seems like you've got a real passion for Electric-types."

Casey nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! I'm aiming to be the Electric-type Gym Leader in Johto, actually. I've still got a lot to learn, but I want to be like Yellow. She's such an amazing trainer and, well, her team's got some serious power." She smiled, looking up at the sky. "That's why I started following you all. If I'm going to be a Gym Leader, I want to learn from the best."

Haru chuckled, glad to see her so passionate. "Well, I can't promise I'm the best, but I can definitely show you a thing or two. We all have our own ways of battling. I'm sure you'll figure out yours as you go."

"That's the spirit!" Casey grinned back at him. "Thanks, Haru!"

The group continued walking, chatting along the way. As they neared the outskirts of Ecruteak City, the sound of bustling streets and Pokémon Center chatter filled the air. The city was alive with energy, the distant echo of music from the annual dance festival reaching their ears.

"Looks like we're here," Jessie said, her voice softening as she looked around. "Ecruteak always has a special vibe, doesn't it?"

James nodded, his face a mix of awe and nostalgia. "Yeah, it's got history. The Legendary Pokémon connection here is fascinating, too. Suicune is said to have passed through these parts."

Haru raised an eyebrow. "Legendaries? Are we talking about the ones people only see in legends or the ones who might show up in real life?"

James grinned. "Oh, real life. But the chances of meeting them are slim. Legendary Pokémon like Suicune, Entei, and Raikou are tied to the myths of Ecruteak, but they're incredibly elusive."

Casey looked around, clearly intrigued. "If I ever met one of them... That would be amazing! Imagine having a Legendary on your team!"

Haru shook his head, amused. "I'm more focused on my battles, but I wouldn't say no if I ever had the chance to see one."

As they entered the city, they were greeted by the sight of the famous Ecruteak Gym, its elegant design and historical architecture drawing the attention of many passersby. The gym itself was nestled near the grand Bell Tower, a site said to hold secrets of its own.

"Alright, time to get this badge," Haru said, determined. "But first, let's hit the Pokémon Center. I could use a good rest."

They walked toward the Pokémon Center, where Nurse Joy greeted them with a warm smile. After handing over their Pokémon for a quick checkup, they sat down in the waiting area.

Casey, still buzzing with energy, turned to Haru. "Do you know who the Gym Leader here is?"

Haru thought for a moment. "Yeah, it's Morty, the Ghost-type specialist. I've heard he's tough, but I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. Besides, I've been training my team for this."

James, looking slightly worried, spoke up. "Ghost-types are tricky. Make sure you're ready for some serious strategy. You're not just dealing with straight-up attacks, but illusions and trickery."

Jessie smiled confidently. "I've seen Haru in action. He's got it covered."

Haru stood up and stretched. "Let's get this over with. We've got a badge to earn and a city to explore after."

As the group set off toward the Ecruteak Gym, excitement filled the air. The city, with its mix of history, legends, and battles, promised a new chapter in their adventure.

Haru then thought of something. "I think I know where the gym leader is".

They walked, after a while they arrived to a burned bell tower, as they walked there was a man there looking at the are

He seemed like a tall young man with golden-yellow hair and dark peridot eyes.

[ Insert image of Morty ]

Haru then spoke. "Looks like noting change does it Morty".

Morty turned his head and saw Haru. "Ah Haru, it been 6 years, so how have you been"

Haru looked at him. "Pretty good, I am here for my third Gym badges, but what are you doing here"

Morty turned his gaze back toward the burned remains of the Bell Tower, his expression contemplative. "I come here often, Haru. This place holds a lot of history and mystery... it's tied to the Legendary Beasts, you know. Suicune, Entei, and Raikou are said to have been revived here by Ho-Oh."

Haru nodded, understanding Morty's fascination. "Still chasing after Ho-Oh, huh? Some things never change."

Morty chuckled softly, the sound tinged with a mix of amusement and nostalgia. "You know me too well. Ho-Oh has always been my goal, my guiding light. But enough about that—if you're here for a Gym battle, we can settle that at the Gym. Or," he smirked, "we could have a battle right here. The Bell Tower ruins would make a fine stage, don't you think?"

Haru raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "An outdoor battle, huh? Sounds good to me. What do you think, Jessie, James, Casey?"

Jessie crossed her arms with a grin. "I like it. A battle with a bit of history as the backdrop—sounds dramatic."

James nodded. "This could be interesting. Ghost-types in a place like this? It's fitting."

Casey, as energetic as ever, practically jumped in excitement. "Do it! This will be epic!"

Morty smiled at their enthusiasm. "Alright then, let's get started. Haru, I hope you've come prepared. Ghost-types are no walk in the park."

Haru grinned confidently, pulling a Pokéball from his belt. "Don't worry about me, Morty. I've got a few surprises up my sleeve."

The two trainers took their positions as Jessie, James, Meowth, and Casey stood to the side to spectate. The air grew still, the faint sound of wind whistling through the ruins creating an eerie ambiance.

Morty released his first Pokémon—a Gastly. The ghostly orb floated in the air, its malicious grin and gaseous body exuding an unsettling energy.

Haru threw his Pokéball, releasing Electivire. The Electric-type's imposing presence and crackling electricity immediately lit up the ruins, contrasting Gastly's spectral aura.

Morty gestured with a calm hand. "Let's see how you handle this, Haru. Gastly, use Hypnosis!"

Gastly's eyes glowed with a hypnotic light as it floated toward Electivire. Haru reacted quickly. "Electivire, Thunder Wave, now!"

Before Gastly could complete its move, Electivire unleashed a jolt of electricity, paralyzing the ghost. Morty raised an eyebrow, impressed. "Clever, as always. But don't think that's enough. Gastly, use Night Shade!"

Gastly mustered its strength, sending a wave of dark energy toward Electivire. Haru didn't flinch. "Electivire, dodge and counter with Ice Punch!"

Electivire evaded the attack with surprising agility and lunged forward, its fist crackling with electricity. The Ice Punch connected, sending Gastly reeling before it fainted.

Morty recalled Gastly with a calm smile. "Not bad, Haru. But the battle's just begun."

He sent out his second Pokémon—a Haunter. The floating ghost cackled mischievously, its hands moving independently of its body.

Haru smirked. "This is going to be fun."

The battle continued, each move heightening the tension and excitement in the air. With every clash of attacks, the ruins of the Bell Tower seemed to come alive, as if the spirits of the past were watching.

Would Haru manage to outwit Morty's Ghost-types and claim his third badge? The outcome of this intense battle awaited in the shadows of Ecruteak's history.

Haru then return Electivire. "You did good girl take some rest before I sent your out again". Haru then pulled out his second Pokémon. "Let's go Houndour".

Morty looked at him. "You really are going to destroy me like it did 6 years ago, Mr Prodigy".

Haru smirked, tossing his Pokéball into the air. "You know me, Morty. Always aiming to win, but hey—this time, I'm holding back a little."

The Pokéball burst open, revealing Houndour. The dark canine snarled, flames licking at the corners of its mouth as it faced Haunter with fierce determination.

Morty chuckled, shaking his head. "Same old Haru, always confident. But don't think this is going to be as easy as last time. Haunter, let's show him how much we've grown—use Shadow Ball!"

Haunter quickly formed a dark, swirling orb between its hands and launched it toward Houndour. The attack cut through the air with precision.

Haru reacted swiftly. "Houndour, dodge and counter with Flamethrower!"

Houndour leapt to the side with agility, the Shadow Ball barely missing as it exploded against the ground. Landing gracefully, Houndour unleashed a stream of scorching flames, aimed directly at Haunter.

Morty's expression shifted to one of concentration. "Haunter, use your speed! Dodge and retaliate with Confuse Ray!"

Haunter vanished into the air, reappearing behind Houndour in an instant. Its eyes glowed brightly, releasing a series of eerie, multicolored lights that danced around Houndour.

Haru's eyes narrowed. "Houndour, close your eyes and use Smog!"

Houndour obeyed, shutting its eyes to avoid the disorienting rays and releasing a thick, noxious cloud of smoke. The smog filled the battlefield, obscuring Haunter's vision.

Morty frowned. "Smart move, Haru. Haunter, stay on guard and prepare a Night Shade!"

The haunting energy began to gather around Haunter, but before it could attack, Haru gave his command. "Now, Flamethrower—straight into the Smog!"

The combination attack ignited the smog, creating a fiery explosion that engulfed Haunter. When the smoke cleared, Haunter was barely floating, struggling to stay in the fight.

Morty sighed, a proud smile on his face. "You really don't pull any punches, do you? Haunter, you've done enough. Take a rest." He recalled Haunter and prepared his final Pokémon.

"This one's going to be a challenge, Haru. I've saved the best for last." Morty threw his Pokéball, releasing a Gengar. The mischievous ghost smirked, its shadowy form exuding an aura of power.

Haru grinned, returning Houndour to its Pokéball. "Alright, time to go all out. Electivire, you're back in!"

The battle wasn't over yet, and both trainers knew they had to give it everything they had.

Haru then looked at Electivire. "Use Wild Charge".

Electivire roared, electricity crackling around its body as it charged forward with incredible speed. The golden arcs of lightning lit up the dim area around the Burned Tower, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Morty smirked. "Gengar, use Shadow Sneak!"

Gengar sank into its own shadow just as Electivire barreled toward it. The ghost's shadow slithered along the ground, reappearing behind Electivire and landing a swift strike.

Haru gritted his teeth. "Electivire, recover and use Ice Pubch! Keep your eyes on Gengar's movements."

Electivire spun around, shaking off the blow. It unleashed a bolt of pure lightning, aiming at Gengar. Morty was quick to react.

"Gengar, dodge it with Double Team!"

Gengar split into multiple illusory copies, the Ice Punch passing harmlessly through one of them. The real Gengar remained hidden among its clones, grinning mischievously.

Haru's eyes narrowed as he analyzed the situation. "I see what you're trying to do, Morty. Electivire, use Thunder Wave across the entire area!"

Electivire released a wave of static electricity that spread outward, sparking through the battlefield. The illusions flickered and vanished, leaving the real Gengar momentarily paralyzed.

Morty's smile faded slightly. "You've gotten even sharper, Haru. Gengar, let's fight through it! Use Hypnosis!"

Despite its slowed movements, Gengar's eyes glowed as it attempted to put Electivire to sleep.

Haru saw this coming. "Electivire, don't look at it! Close your eyes and use Ice Punch!"

Electivire closed its eyes and lunged forward with its fist encased in chilling ice. The punch connected with Gengar, sending it skidding backward. The cold attack left Gengar visibly struggling.

Morty clenched his fists. "Gengar, hang in there! Use Hex!"

The ghost gathered dark energy, targeting Electivire for a powerful attack. Haru wasted no time.

"Electivire, end this with Wild Charge, full power!"

Electivire roared again, charging at Gengar with even greater speed and ferocity. The electricity surrounding its body sparked wildly, leaving trails of light as it closed the gap. The impact was devastating, sending Gengar crashing into the ground.

When the dust settled, Gengar struggled to rise but eventually fainted. Morty sighed and recalled his Pokémon, a proud smile on his face. "You've beaten me again, Haru. You've truly earned this badge."

Morty then looked at Haru. "You know, you should not use more then 4 moves for your Pokémon".

Haru just chuckled. "Hey this was not a Gym Battle in your Gym, so you can't report me to the Pokémon League for breaking the 4 moves rules".

Morty smirked, shaking his head. "Still the same Haru, always finding loopholes. Fine, I'll let it slide this time. But when you step into my gym for an official match, you better stick to the rules. No excuses."

Haru shrugged nonchalantly. "Rules are only for battles where they apply, Morty. Out here, it's about survival and strategy, not regulations."

Jessie and James exchanged glances, both looking amused. Meowth, however, chimed in. "Kid's got a point. If ya ain't followin' the League's rules, ain't no one gonna stop ya out in the wild!"

Casey, who had been silent until now, frowned. "But doesn't it feel wrong? I mean, rules are there for a reason, right? You're supposed to battle fair and square."

Haru turned to her with a raised eyebrow. "Casey, let me give you a piece of advice. Out here, the only rule is to win. If you think your opponent will always play fair, you're setting yourself up to lose. That's not how the world works."

Morty nodded, though his expression remained serious. "He's not wrong. But remember, Haru, there's a fine line between strategy and arrogance. Don't let your mindset get the better of you."

Haru smirked confidently. "Don't worry about me, Morty. I've got this under control."

Morty handed Haru a small item. "Here, take this. It's a guide to ghost Pokémon behavior. You'll find it useful if you plan to face more trainers like me in the future."

Haru accepted the booklet and glanced at it briefly. "Thanks, Morty. I'll consider it."

Morty turned to Jessie and James. "You two... still causing trouble?"

Jessie laughed nervously. "We've turned over a new leaf! We're traveling with Haru to... uh... reflect on our life choices!"

Morty raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. "Well, good luck with that. Just don't drag Haru into anything shady."

Jessie and James both saluted dramatically. "Of course not!"

Morty shook his head and started walking away. "Stay out of trouble, Haru. And if you ever need help, you know where to find me."

As he disappeared into the distance, Haru turned back to the group. "Well, that was fun. Let's get to Ecruteak Gym. I've got a badge to win."

Jessie crossed her arms. "Are you sure about that? After Morty's lecture, I'd think you'd want to take a break."

Haru smirked. "A break? No chance. I'm just getting warmed up."

But in the end Haru, decided to the take the day to rest, and so he did

To be continued

Hope people like this Ch and give me power stones and enjoy


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