The afternoon sun hung low in the sky as Jake and Monika trudged down the path from town, their schoolbags bouncing against their backs. The Pokémon Center was the first stop on their way home, a familiar and welcoming sight after a long day of lessons.
Jake let out an exaggerated sigh. "School was soooo boring today," he groaned, kicking at a stray pebble on the path.
Monika smirked. "Already complaining, Jakey? It's only been, what, four months?"
"But it feels like forever!" Jake threw up his arms dramatically. "Today, we had to copy a whole page of words, and then the teacher made us stand up one by one and read it out loud! I thought I was gonna die."
Monika giggled. "Oh no! The horror! Reading words!" She clutched her chest as if she were fainting.
Jake shot her a glare. "Easy for you to say. You already know how to read."
"Well, yeah, 'cause I practiced. You should too." She poked him playfully in the side. "Otherwise, how are you gonna read about Pokémon moves, huh?"
Jake huffed. "I don't need to read. I just need to battle. I'll be a Pokémon trainer, not a—" He waved his arms vaguely. "Not a scientist or whatever!"
Monika rolled her eyes. "Right, because trainers never have to read. No Pokédex entries, no battle strategies, no online guides…" She tapped her chin, pretending to think. "Oh wait, trainers actually read all the time!"
Jake grumbled. "I'll just ask someone."
"And sound like a total newbie?" Monika teased. "Imagine standing in a battle and going, 'Uhh, what does Ember do again?'"
Jake groaned, rubbing his face. "Fine, fine. Maybe I'll read a little."
"Good, because your Mom told me if you don't pass first grade, she's gonna make you trade that Charmander for a Bidoof," Monika said with a wicked grin.
Jake gasped, not understanding his cousin teasing. "She wouldn't!"
Monika shrugged. "Guess we'll find out."
Before Jake could protest, the doors of the Pokémon Center slid open with a soft whoosh, and they stepped inside. The scent of antiseptic and warm fur filled the air, along with the occasional beep of healing machines.
Behind the counter, Rachel, Monika's mother and the Pokémon Center's manager, looked up from a clipboard. She had the same sharp blue eyes as her daughter, though hers carried the weary patience of someone who had spent years keeping both people and Pokémon in line.
"Well, well, if it isn't my two favorite troublemakers," Rachel said with a grin. "What brings you here today? Skipping homework already?"
Jake crossed his arms. "We just got out of school! We deserve a break!"
Monika nudged him. "Jake's mad because he has to learn how to read."
Rachel raised an eyebrow. "Ah, the great struggle of first grade. You know, Jake, I had a patient a while ago—an Abra—who could read human books. Maybe you should train one of those and it could teach you."
Jake groaned. "Not you too!"
Rachel chuckled. "Alright, alright. Come on in. I was just about to check on some Pokémon."
As the cousins followed her inside, the beeping of machines and the quiet rustling of Pokémon stirred around them.
The Pokémon Center was bustling with activity as Rachel worked behind the counter, helping trainers with their injured Pokémon. The beeping of machines, the hushed conversations of worried trainers, and the occasional call of a Pokémon filled the air.
In the lobby, Jake and Monika sat on a small bench with their books spread out before them. Monika was diligently scribbling in her notebook, her tongue sticking out slightly as she concentrated. Jake, on the other hand, had his book open in front of him but hadn't turned a page in several minutes. Instead, his gaze wandered across the room, watching the various Pokémon and their trainers.
One Pokémon, in particular, caught his attention—a small, balloon-like creature floating near the ceiling. It had a round, purple body, with two stubby yellow arms that dangled at its sides like deflated ribbons. A tiny "X" shape was stitched across its face, and its lower half tapered off into a small wisp that bobbed slightly in the air. Jake recognized it from one of his game cards—Drifloon, a Ghost and Flying-type Pokémon.
As he watched the Drifloon, Jake suddenly felt something strange, like a wave of nervous energy washing over him. His stomach twisted—not in pain, but in an unfamiliar way. The Drifloon wasn't just floating idly; it was worried. Its round little body quivered slightly, and its yellow eyes kept darting to the corner of the room, where its trainer was speaking with a nurse. Next to the trainer, another Pokémon lay on a stretcher—a Luxio, its blue-and-black fur matted with dust and tiny scratches.
Jake swallowed. He had no idea how, but he could somehow feel Drifloon's worry. It was anxious for its friend, afraid something might be seriously wrong.
He tried to focus on another Pokémon, shifting his gaze toward a nearby Machoke flexing its arms as its trainer wrapped a bandage around its leg. But he didn't feel the same sensation. It was just a normal, tired Pokémon resting after a battle.
Before he could think more about it, a sharp elbow jabbed his ribs.
"Ow!" Jake yelped, turning to glare at Monika.
"You're supposed to be doing homework, not staring at Pokémon," she scolded without looking up from her notebook. "Work first, watch later."
Jake sighed dramatically and slumped over his book, muttering, "This is so unfair…"
He forced himself to focus, half-heartedly tracing letters on the page. But before he could get through a single sentence, the glass doors of the Pokémon Center slid open, and two figures entered, immediately drawing his and Monika's attention.
The first was a large, burly man with a thick beard and a flannel shirt stretched across his broad frame. He looked like he belonged in a forest chopping wood, but his most striking feature was the wheelchair he sat in. Rather than pushing it himself, a Grumpig walked beside him, its pearl-covered forehead glowing faintly as it guided the chair forward with psychic energy.
The second man was younger, with a lean build and sharp, calculating eyes. He had short, dark brown hair that was slightly unkempt, and his face was lined with a deep frown. His clothes were more practical than stylish—sturdy boots, a thick utility belt, and a heavy brown jacket over a sleeveless shirt. A Diggersby lumbered beside him, its massive ears twitching as it scanned the room.
Jake recognized them both. The man in the wheelchair was Jerry Hunter, one of the foremen at Battle Ranch, known for his fun-filled attitude, his neglect to return borrowed things and his deep knowledge of Pokémon care.
The other was Marek Hoffman, a senior trainer who had once been part of the local Ground-type gym before moving to the ranch to become a breeder for those Pokémon. He was respected for his experience, but he also had a reputation for being stubborn when it came to Pokémon-related matters.
And right now, it was clear that those two were arguing.
"I'm telling you, something's off about those tunnels," Marek insisted, his tone sharp. "A few collapses here and there? Fine. That's normal. But this? This wasn't natural."
Jerry snorted. "Marek, tunnels collapse. It's what tunnels do. There are Ground-types that were burrowing through those mines for generations. This isn't anything new."
Marek folded his arms. "I've been working with Ground-types for over a decade. I know when something's natural and when it's not. Those tunnels didn't cave in on their own. Something caused it."
Jerry shrugged. "Well, unless you've got proof, it's all just guesswork. Not like I can go check for myself right now," he chuckled, patting his wheelchair. "So unless you're volunteering to carry me through the tunnels, I'll stick to my assumptions."
Marek's jaw tightened. "If you did see it yourself, you'd know I'm right."
Jake and Monika exchanged a look. Something was definitely going on, and neither Jerry nor Marek was backing down.
Meanwhile Jerry and Marek approached the reception desk, handing Rachel several handfulls of Pokéballs.
"Bonjour beautiful mademoiselle, tu vas bien?" Marek greeted Rachel with a laugh, clearly referencing to Samuel, a challenger from Kalos, who was flirting with many ladies around the ranch.
"Shut up, you moron!" Rachel smirked back, "so, what do you two have for me?"
"Here. These are for the trainers swapping their teams," Marek explained, adjusting his belt.
"They sent word this morning that they wanted these sent over," Jerry added.
Rachel nodded, taking the Pokéballs and placing them in a small transfer tray behind the counter. "Got it. As soon as they call again, we'll make the transition."
As the conversation at the counter continued, Jake kept one eye on the Pokémon around the lobby, while Monika scribbled something in her notebook—though even she was sneaking glances toward the two men.
Before they could hear much more, the glass doors slid open again, and another visitor strode into the Pokémon Center.
"Hey, there's Dad," Monika said, nudging Jake's arm.
Frank Prochazka walked in with his usual confident stride, his Ranger jacket unzipped over his practical vest and cargo pants. His brown hair was slightly messy from the wind, and his ever-present utility belt jingled softly with Pokéballs and gear. And what more, in one arm he was carrying a small shiny Charmander.
"Hey, kids!" Frank greeted, immediately raising his hand for a high-five with Monika, which she smacked with enthusiasm. Then he turned to Jake, who was already holding up his fist. With a grin, Frank bumped it lightly before handing Charmander over to Jake. "How was school? Learn anything important today?"
Despite having Charmander with him, Jake groaned. "No."
Monika smirked. "I did."
"Well, that's not surprising," Frank teased. "You are your mother's daughter, after all." He winked at Rachel standing behind the counter, who rolled her eyes but smiled.
"Monika just likes to pretend she knows everything," Jake muttered and scratched Charmander on his head. The little fire lizard closed his eyes, happy to be with his friend.
"I don't need to pretend," Monika shot back, "I know things. Unlike you..."
"Alright, alright," Frank chuckled. "No family-feuds in the Pokémon Center."
Leaving the kids to their bickering, Frank walked over to Jerry and Marek, greeting them both with a nod. "Hey fellas, how's it hanging?"
"Pretty low," Marek laughed.
"Though I'm not sure how lower I could get without falling out of this shi... thing," Jerry snickered.
Frank turned to Jerry and raised an eyebrow. "You're still in that wheelchair?"
Jerry grunted, crossing his arms. "Shoot... I can walk fine, but the doc insists I take it easy. Something about 'not pushing the injury too soon' and 'letting things heal properly.' I tell you, they love throwing medical jargon at me."
Frank smirked. "And what does your wife say?"
Jerry scowled. "That's the problem. She listens to the doctor more than me. And so does Grumpig!" He gestured toward the Psychic-type, who gave a small snort but continued standing by its trainer and guiding the wheelchair with telekinetic ease if needed. "I keep telling 'em I don't need it, but nope. Every time I try to stand, my dear wife glares at me, and Grumpig here plops me right back down. I'm basically held hostage."
Frank chuckled. "Sounds rough. You sure you don't like it just a little bit? No need to walk, no need to work—just rolling around all day."
Jerry grumbled. "Oh yeah, it's real nice. But if I sit around more days, my legs turn into stone. Or to jelly. Besides rolling around with Grumpig, I've got nothing to do but sit in this damn chair and think about life, the universe, and everything. Soon I will need to be treated with depression."
Frank smirked. "Give it another few weeks, and maybe you'll start coming up with brilliant new ideas."
Jerry rubbed his chin mockingly. "Actually, I have been thinking about outer space a lot. It's probably shaped in the same way as the wheel on this thing. But who knows?"
Marek, who had been silent until now, suddenly chimed in with a smirk. "Yeah? Well, let me save you some time. The universe is shaped like a giant donut."
Frank snorted. "Where do you go for those ideas, man?"
Marek shrugged. "Hey, I like donuts. Everyone likes donuts. Big ones, ones with glaze or those with special toppings, cosmic ones, all kinds."
Jerry scoffed. "Well, if the universe is really donut shaped, I will eat this wheelchair! Or maybe throw it in your face..."
Frank grinned. "So what you're saying is, even when you can stand up again, you'll still be keeping that chair around just in case?"
Jerry rolled his eyes and Marek laughed.
Their conversation was cut short when Rachel called out from behind the counter. "Hey hubby, if you're done theorizing about space donuts, I have a job for you!"
"D'oh!" Marek laughed, while Jerry smirked.
Frank chuckled. "Alright, alright. Guys, I actually stopped here on my way to grab some supplies. Thought it was nice to see you!" He turned back to the kids. "Speaking of which—kids, you want to come with me? I need to pick up a few things from town."
Jake's eyes lit up. "Really?"
Frank shrugged. "Sure. You can help me carry stuff, and maybe we'll grab a snack while we're out."
"I wanna go!" Jake exclaimed while Charmander joined him with exciting chirps.
Frank turned to his daughter. "And you?"
Monika simply rolled her eyes. "No, thanks. I have important work to do."
Rachel glanced at her daughter. "Let me guess—you're staying to help with Litten?"
Monika nodded. "Yup. Someone has to make sure it's okay."
Jake, despite himself, hesitated. "Is… is it doing better?"
Monika softened slightly. "Yeah. It's still a little weak, but it's eating now. I think it's starting to trust me."
Jake scratched his head. "That's cool."
Frank clapped a hand on Jake's shoulder. "Alright, let's move before you change your mind. See you guys later!"
"Can I leave my things with you, Mon?" Jake turned to his cousin.
"What can I do..." she rolled her eyes with exaggerated expression, but then nodded and winked at him.
With that, Frank and Jake made their way out, leaving Monika behind with a smirk and Jerry still deep in thought about space—and Marek thinking about donuts.
As soon as they stepped outside the Pokémon Center, Frank pulled a Pokéball from his belt and tossed it into the air.
"Alright, Girafarig, we need a lift!"
With a flash of light, the Psychic/Normal-type materialized before them. Girafarig stood tall, its long neck stretching as it took in its surroundings. Its yellow body gleamed in the late afternoon light, and its second head—the black, chomping tail—twitched slightly, as if already anticipating some mischief.
===
Girafarig
Level: 60
Name: N/A
Gender: Male
Type: Normal / Psychic
Affinity: Normal (Full), Psychic (Full)
Moves: Astonish (48), Rest (43 to 45), Gravity (56), Confusion (47 to 49), Teleport (59 to 60), Stomp (50), Agility (47), Double Hit (48 to 51), Crunch (54), Nasty Plot (44 to 48), Psychic (53), Low Kick (52), Trailblaze (45), Wild Charge (46 to 49), Swift (55), Store Power (43), Zen Headbutt (56 to 59), Body Slam (48), Reflect (56), Dazzling Gleam (37), Stomping Tantrum (34), Calm Mind (31 to 36), Earthquake (35), Future Sight (31), Ally Switch (43), Mean Look (41)
Abilities:
Inner Focus – Prevents Girafarig from flinching
Early Bird – Girafarig quickly awakens from sleep
Weak to: Bug, Dark
Immune to: Ghost
Resistant to: Psychic
Resistance Added: Steel
===
"Think you can take us to Iglaustadt?" Frank asked, patting its side.
Girafarig let out a short chuff, eyes glowing faintly with psychic energy.
"Good. Hold on, kiddo," Frank said, grabbing Jake by the shoulder. "Charmander, you too."
Charmander, who had been trotting beside Jake, tilted its head curiously before scrambling up into its friend's arms.
Then, Girafarig's body was surrounded by a faint aura of white light, its psychic energy gathering rapidly. The light grew brighter, surrounding all three of them, until with a final pulse—they vanished.
They reappeared in Iglaustadt's main square in an instant. The sudden shift in location made Jake wobble slightly before steadying himself.
"Whoa," he breathed. No matter how many times he had been teleported, it was always exciting.
Frank gave Girafarig a pat. "Good job, buddy."
The Pokémon flicked its ears in acknowledgment.
"Alright, let's make this a bit more fun," Frank added with a grin. "Hop on."
Jake blinked. "Huh?"
"On Girafarig," Frank said, motioning to the Pokémon.
Jake's eyes widened in excitement. "Really?!"
"Just don't fall off."
Before Girafarig could protest, Frank lifted Jake up onto the Pokémon's back. The boy settled in eagerly, holding onto Girafarig's neck, while Charmander climbed up behind him, clinging onto the young boy.
Girafarig let out a huff, its tail's mouth snapping once in mild irritation.
Frank chuckled. "Yeah, yeah, I know it's not your usual job, but humor us a little."
Girafarig snorted but began walking forward, its long legs making for a smooth, steady ride.
Jake grinned from his perch. "This is awesome!"
Frank chuckled. "Enjoy it while you can, kid."
They made their way through the bustling town, stopping at various stores. First, they visited a Pokémon supply shop, where Frank picked up some specialized feed for different Pokémon back at the ranch. The shopkeeper greeted them warmly, amused to see a young boy riding atop a Girafarig.
Next, they stopped by a general store to grab medical supplies. Frank quickly handled the purchases while Jake curiously looked at the various Pokémon-care items on display.
The best stop, however, was the bakery.
"Alright, let's grab something good," Frank said, rubbing his hands together.
Jake and Charmander perked up immediately, their eyes sparkling with excitement.
They picked out a selection of treats—freshly baked pastries, a few honey-coated biscuits, and some dried fruit snacks. As soon as they stepped outside, Frank distributed the snacks.
Jake and Charmander cheered in delight. "Thanks, Uncle Frank!"
Even Girafarig let out a pleased hum, happy to receive its own share.
But as Frank held out a biscuit for his Pokémon, SNAP!
The second head—Girafarig's tail—clamped down lightly on Frank's hand.
Frank yelped, jerking his arm back. "Ow!"
The tail-head released him, its little mouth twitching smugly.
"Hey! That wasn't part of the deal!" Frank said, shaking his hand. "You bit me on purpose!"
Jake, who had been watching, suddenly felt a faint emotional wave—frustration mixed with stubbornness. He looked down at Girafarig and realized that the Pokémon was, in fact, mildly annoyed about carrying him and Charmander all over town.
Without thinking, Jake slid off Girafarig's back and wrapped his arms around its neck in a big hug. "I'm sorry! We won't ride you anymore."
Girafarig blinked in surprise, its ears twitching.
Jake pulled back slightly and gave the Pokémon a sincere smile. "We can walk now."
Frank watched with an amused look.
After a brief pause, Girafarig made a low, pleased sound, then suddenly leaned down and—SLURP!
It dragged its long tongue across Jake's cheek.
Jake yelped, then burst into giggles, wiping his face. "Eww! Girafarig, that's gross!"
But he was laughing, and so was Frank and Charmander. Even Girafarig let out a satisfied snort, clearly in a better mood now.
Frank grinned. "Alright, truce settled. Let's finish up here and head home."
With Girafarig now walking freely beside them, the group continued their journey through Iglaustadt, Jake happily munching on his treat while chatting away about Pokémon and adventures.
Frank, Jake, Girafarig, and Charmander had just stepped through the large stone gate when an eerie sensation washed over them. A strange, almost suffocating aura wrapped around their bodies, making the air feel thick and heavy.
Frank's eyes widened in realization.
Teleport.
"Jake, hold onto me!" Frank barked, grabbing his nephew's wrist. His voice was firm, but his heart pounded.
"Girafarig, get us out of here!"
The giraffe-like Pokémon whinnied in alarm, its psychic energy flaring to counter the foreign force trying to snatch them away. But it was too late.
The world around them twisted, space itself warping, and with a flash of light—
They were gone.
When the disorienting pull of teleportation faded, Frank opened his eyes and immediately tensed.
The air was damp. The walls were rough stone, jagged and uneven, with deep cracks running along them. The ceiling was low, supported by what looked like old wooden beams. The dim, flickering light from Jake's Charmander's tail barely illuminated the tunnel.
Frank's gut clenched. They were probably underground.
"Get us out of here!" he repeated, his voice sharp with urgency.
Girafarig stomped its hooves and started gathering energy for another Teleport—
WHAM!
"GET DOWN!" Frank shouted.
He grabbed Jake and pulled him to the ground just as a beam of crackling dark energy shot toward them.
The Dark Pulse slammed straight into Girafarig's face, sending the Pokémon stumbling backward with a pained cry. Its tail-head snapped wildly, trying to sense the attacker.
Frank's eyes darted to the source of the attack.
Standing at the end of the tunnel, its shadow stretched long against the stone, was a large Alolan Raticate—a massive, bulky rodent with sharp fangs and beady red eyes gleaming with malice. It bared its teeth, saliva dripping from its mouth as it let out a guttural growl.
"No!" Frank gritted his teeth.
"Dazzling Gleam!" he commanded the giraffe-like creature to use a super-effective move, his voice filled with urgency.
Girafarig shook its head, blinking rapidly to regain focus. Then, it released a brilliant flash of Fairy-type energy.
But the Raticate was faster than expected.
With a sharp hiss, it turned and disappeared into the shadows of the tunnel before the attack could land.
Frank clenched his fists.
"It's trying to lure us into a trap!" he thought.
He turned to Girafarig. "Stay on guard! The second it shows up again, hit it with everything you've got!"
Then he looked at Jake, gripping the boy's shoulder. "And you—stay close to me!"
Jake swallowed hard and nodded.
For a few moments, there was only silence.
Then—
A faint rustling.
Behind them.
Girafarig's tail-eyes twitched. The Pokémon's body tensed.
It had spotted the attacker first.
The Raticate emerged from the darkness, another Dark Pulse charging in its mouth.
Girafarig reacted instantly, spinning on its hooves and leaping in front of Frank and Jake just as the attack was unleashed.
BOOM!
Dark and Fairy-type energy clashed, creating a blinding explosion of light in the narrow tunnel. Dust and smoke filled the air.
Frank coughed, shielding Jake with his body. "We have to move—"
In the dark, several more eyes started to shine.
But before Girafarig could gather its energy to teleport them away, several more Dark Pulses shot through the smoke.
Direct hit.
Girafarig let out a sharp cry as it was knocked off its feet, its long legs buckling beneath it. The Pokémon hit the ground, its body trembling from the pain.
"Girafarig, return!" Frank growled, pulling out its Pokéball. A red beam of light shot out, recalling the battered Pokémon.
He didn't hesitate.
He grabbed another Pokéball from his belt and threw it.
"Deena, Protect!"
With a burst of light, a large lioness materialized.
===
Pyroar
Level: 53 to 55
Name: Deena
Gender: Female
Type: Fire / Normal
Affinity: Normal (Full), Fire (Full), Grass (Beginner)
Moves: Tackle (50 to 53), Fire Fang (48 to 50), Echoed Voice (48), Flamethrower (49 to 51), Odor Sleuth (35 to 39), Crunch (32), Hyper Beam (20 to 23), Overheat (18 to 20), Protect (38 to 44), Solar Beam (42 to 43), Grass Knot (33 to 37), Snarl (30), Flame Charge (28), Wild Charge (20), Sunny Day (21), Will-O-Wisp (17), Yawn (25 to 29)
Abilities:
Rivalry – Pyroar deals more damage to the female target
Moxie – When Pyroar knocks out a target, it boosts its Attack
Weak to: Fighting, Rock, Water
Immune to: Ghost
Resistant to: Bug, Steel, Fire, Grass, Ice, Fairy
Weakness removed: Ground
===
Pyroar roared loudly, her crimson mane flaring like a wildfire as she immediately activated Protect, creating a shimmering blue energy shield around them.
The moment the protective dome materialized, the dim light from Charmander's tail flickered across the tunnel—
And revealed them.
Jake gasped.
Raticates.
They weren't alone.
At least four more Alolan Raticates had crept out of the tunnels, their sleek black fur blending with the shadows. They surrounded them, their sharp claws digging into the ground, their noses twitching hungrily.
"Char! Char!" Charmander let out a panicked cry, the flame on its tail flaring brighter as its tiny body trembled.
Frank's mind raced.
"They're not just wild Pokémon. This was a setup. Someone—or something—wanted us down here."
Deena growled lowly, her golden eyes locked onto the circling Raticates. The fire lion's muscles tensed, ready to pounce, but she kept the Protect shield up, waiting for Frank's command.
Jake clutched his uncle's arm. "Uncle Frank… what are we gonna do?"
Frank forced a grin, even as his heart pounded in his chest. "Don't worry, kid. We're gonna be home in no time."
He had to sound confident. He had to keep Jake from panicking.
But inside, he knew one thing—
Whoever had teleported them down here had planned this.
And now, they had to fight their way out.
Deena, the Pyroar, stood firm, her muscles tensed as she maintained the shimmering blue Protect barrier. The glowing energy rippled with each impact, as the attacking Raticates hammered against it with relentless Dark Pulses. Their shrill screeches echoed through the tunnel, mixing with the crackling sounds of energy strikes colliding against the shield.
She let out a deep growl, baring her fangs, and glanced at Frank with an intense, questioning look.
Frank met her gaze and gave a sharp nod. "You're right. We need more firepower."
Without hesitation, he snatched another Pokéball from his belt and tossed it high into the air.
"Dwayne, now's your turn to shine!"
A bright white light burst from the Pokéball, illuminating the dark tunnel for a brief moment before solidifying into the sturdy, rock-like form of Boldore.
===
Boldore
Level: 45 to 48
Name: Dwayne
Gender: Male
Type: Rock
Affinity: Rock (Full)
Moves: Power Gem (43 to 45), Sand Attack (42), Tackle (41), Harden (41 to 43), Lock-On (36), Rock Polish (42 to 47), Stealth Rock (41), Mud-Slap (28 to 32), Smack Down (36 to 37), Iron Defense (39), Wide Quard (30), Rock Slide (35), Rock Blast (44), Sandstorm (40), Explosion (25), Substitute (33 to 35), Flash Cannon (32 to 34), Heavy Slam (25), Body Press (21), Toxic (23), Endure (22 to 27)
Abilities:
Sturdy – Boldore cannot be knocked out with one hit.
Sand Force – Boosts power of Rock-, Ground- and Steel-type moves in a sandstorm
Weak to: Fighting, Ground, Steel, Water, Grass
Resistant to: Normal, Flying, Poison, Fire
===
The wild Raticates hissed and scurried back at the sudden presence of another Pokémon, but quickly recovered and launched another wave of Dark Pulses. The swirling black energy slammed against Pyroar's Protect, making her snarl in frustration.
Frank clenched his fists. They couldn't stay like this forever. They had to push back.
"Lock-On, then Power Gem. Blast them off!"
Boldore's jagged body rumbled in response. His eyes gleamed as tiny red targeting dots appeared one by one on the faces of the attacking Raticates. The rodents twitched in confusion, their ears flicking as if sensing something was wrong.
Then, the air shook with energy.
"Now!"
Deena suddenly dropped the Protect, leaving them exposed for the briefest of moments—just long enough for Boldore to release a barrage of glowing rock-energy beams.
The Power Gem attack roared through the air, each beam curving and adjusting mid-flight thanks to the precision of Lock-On. The Raticates scrambled back into the shadows, but it was too late—the beams followed them, homing in with pinpoint accuracy.
BOOM!
BOOM!
BOOM!
The tunnel exploded with dust and debris, sending a few Raticates flying. The others screeched in pain and darted away into the darkness. A few remained, growling and glaring, but the surprise attack had thinned their numbers significantly.
Frank didn't waste time.
"Let's go! Deena, Dwayne, get ready to use Protect or Wide Guard. I don't want to be surprised again."
The two Pokémon growled their understanding, flanking Frank and Jake on either side as they pushed forward, deeper into the unknown tunnels.
The tunnel stretched ahead into pitch-black darkness, its damp, rocky walls pressing in from both sides. The air smelled of earth and something foul, a musky scent that clung to their skin.
Frank led the way, moving with steady, cautious steps. Charmander's tail flame flickered, casting eerie shadows along the walls as they advanced. His small body tensed with every sound, his tiny claws curling slightly in anticipation of another attack.
Deena the Pyroar and Dwayne the Boldore flanked them, their eyes scanning the surroundings. Every few steps, the deep silence was broken by sudden rustling sounds, tiny pebbles falling from unseen crevices, and the faint echoes of claws skittering across stone.
And then—
A high-pitched screech tore through the air.
A Golbat swooped down from above.
Frank barely had time to react before a second one followed, its massive wings flapping wildly as it spat a cloud of purple gas—Toxic!
"Protect!"
Deena growled, throwing up another blue energy barrier just in time. The poisonous fumes splashed against the shield, swirling violently before dispersing into the air.
Frank gritted his teeth. Poison-types now? Someone's making sure we don't have an easy escape.
"Deena, Flamethrower! Dwayne, Power Gem!"
Pyroar roared, launching a thick jet of fire into the air, while Boldore fired bright, piercing energy beams. The Golbats tried to dodge, but the scorching flames caught one in the wing, sending it crashing against the rocky wall. The second Golbat barely had time to screech before Boldore's attack struck it mid-flight, causing it to slam into the cavern floor with a dull thud.
Frank exhaled sharply. Another attack, another delay.
They kept moving.
But the attacks didn't stop.
A few minutes later, something small darted from the shadows—then another, and another.
Frank's instincts kicked in. "Watch out!"
Three Dugtrios burrowed from the ground beneath them, their heads popping up like living landmines. The dirt quivered and split as they sent tremors through the ground—Magnitude!
The cave shook violently, knocking Jake to his knees. Boldore barely managed to brace itself, while Deena let out a snarl and dug her claws into the ground.
"Dwayne, Wide Guard! Deena, Grass Knot!" Frank commanded, his voice sharp.
Boldore slammed his rocky limbs into the ground, creating a golden energy barrier. The shockwaves from the attack weakened, but the tremors were still enough to crack the cave floor beneath them. Pyroar's eyes glowed with energy and green vines appeared around Dugtrio binding it to the ground.
Before Frank could issue another command, two massive Onix erupted from the rocky walls ahead blocking their path.
Frank's heart slammed in his chest. This wasn't just random wild Pokémon aggression anymore.
Someone was directing these attacks.
"We're being herded," Frank muttered under his breath. "Someone's controlling these Pokémon from the shadows."
They had to break the pattern.
"Dwayne, Rock Slide! Block that path on the left!"
Boldore rumbled loudly, slamming its legs against the ground. Large chunks of stone tore from the cavern ceiling and crashed into the tunnel entrance ahead, cutting off the path that the Pokémon were forcing them to take.
Frank turned sharply. "We're going our own way. Keep close!"
They fought their way through.
"Use Solar Beam on those Onixes!"
It took Pyroar longer time to charge the attack as there was no sun light, but when she fired it, both stone-snakes hissed in pain and slithered off into the dark, clearing the path to the right.
"Quickly, let's go there!" Frank urged the rest of the gang.
Then—suddenly—the tunnel opened into something… different.
A soft, eerie glow filled the cavern ahead.
The rock walls shimmered with an unnatural green light, pulsing faintly, like a heartbeat.
Jake stopped in his tracks, his eyes widening.
"Whoa…" he whispered, staring at the glowing mushrooms sprouting from the walls and ceiling.
Frank slowed as well, frowning. He had never seen anything like this before.
For a brief moment, the eerie beauty of the cave pushed aside their immediate danger. What was this place?
Frank crouched near the strange glowing mushrooms, running his fingers over their soft, slightly damp surface. The green bioluminescence pulsed faintly under his touch, casting a ghostly light across his hands.
Jake watched curiously as his uncle pulled a small knife from his belt and carefully cut a portion of the fungi. The stalk oozed a faint, glowing sap.
"You're taking that?" Jake asked, eyes wide.
"If it survives the trip, we might be able to grow it in one of the caves back home," Frank muttered, wrapping the sample in a cloth. "Could be useful for something. Maybe your mom could look at it in the lab."
Jake nodded, watching as Frank secured the glowing specimen into his bag.
With that, they moved on.
The attacks had stopped.
Frank's brow furrowed as they continued through the winding tunnel. No more ambushes. No more Pokémon trying to force them down a certain path.
His gut told him this wasn't a coincidence.
"They wanted us to go another way," he murmured under his breath.
Deena the Pyroar walked close to his side, ears twitching at every small sound. Dwayne the Boldore followed heavily behind, its jagged form occasionally scraping against the rocky walls.
Jake clutched onto Frank's sleeve. "Does that mean… we're going the right way?"
Frank didn't answer immediately.
"Maybe. Or maybe they just didn't expect us to come this way at all."
Eventually, they entered a large open cavern where the tunnel split into three separate paths.
Frank stopped, scanning the options. Left. Center. Right. Each tunnel was dark, with no indication of what lay ahead.
"Which way?" Jake asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Frank exhaled through his nose. "I don't know… Let's try the right one."
Without hesitation, he stepped forward, motioning for Jake to stay close. Charmander's flame flickered, casting dancing shadows on the cavern walls.
The tunnel ahead looked eerily similar to the one before.
The same glowing mushrooms sprouted from the ground and walls, filling the passage with an otherworldly green light.
Frank didn't like this. Something felt off.
Then—
Movement.
At the far end of the tunnel, something shifted in the dim light.
Frank reacted instantly. "Deena, Dwayne! Get ready!"
Pyroar and Boldore activated their defensive moves—a shimmering blue Protect surrounded Deena, while Dwayne raised a Wide Guard in anticipation of another attack.
Jake's heart pounded as he clung to his Charmander. Not again…
But this time—no attack came.
Instead, they saw it clearly.
A figure was strapped to the stone wall withthick chains, its arms bound at the wrists and its head covered by a rough burlap sack. The body hung limply, as if unconscious.
Frank narrowed his eyes. This wasn't an ambush. This was something else.
Jake gripped his uncle's sleeve tighter. "Uncle Frank… who is that?"
Frank didn't answer. Because he wasn't sure yet.
But he knew one thing—this was a trap.
Frank's pulse quickened as he carefully approached the chained figure. The man's slight movement startled him, and his Pokémon braced themselves. Deena's fiery mane rippled, and Dwayne instinctively adjusted his position, ready to shield Frank with another protective move.
But Frank didn't give them the order to act just yet.
He stepped forward cautiously, his eyes never leaving the stranger. With a swift motion, he ripped the burlap sack from the man's head.
The face revealed to him was wild and unfamiliar—a long, tangled beard and dark hair that had clearly not been tended to for some time. The man blinked in confusion, but Frank's quick-fire barrage of questions immediately followed.
"Who are you? What are you doing here? What is this place?" Frank's voice was steady, but his mind was racing.
The stranger's lips moved, but no sound came out. He seemed unable to speak, or perhaps it was something else entirely.
Jake, sensing the unease in the air, stepped forward. "Uncle Frank, we should help him."
Frank hesitated. His instincts screamed to stay cautious, but Jake's innocent face softened his resolve. With a sigh, he glanced at his Pokémon.
"Okay, Deena, use Grass Knot. Let's break these chains."
Deena growled in response and focused her energy. Vines erupted from the stone floor, wrapping around the thick chains and squeezing until the metal groaned and shattered. The man's arms fell free, though he remained hunched over, barely able to stand.
Frank didn't relax, though. His mind was alert, eyes scanning the stranger for any signs of a trap.
Again, he asked, "Who are you? What's going on here?"
But the stranger only raised a trembling hand and pointed down the tunnel, his eyes wide with a strange urgency.
Jake glanced between his uncle and the man. "Should we follow him?"
Frank's gut tightened, but the strange man's pleading gestures pushed him forward. He glanced at Deena and Dwayne, both on high alert, ready for anything.
"Stay on guard, both of you," Frank muttered, his voice low. He reached for another Pokéball, fingers brushing the edges of it as his instincts screamed for caution.
They followed the man down the darkened path, the eerie glow of the mushrooms casting an otherworldly light over their way.
After several minutes, they entered a vast cave, its size almost unnerving. The walls seemed to press in on them, and the air grew stale.
Frank's brow furrowed. "It's a dead end." He exhaled, fighting the rising tension in his chest. This didn't feel right.
The man stopped abruptly, turning to face them. Frank prepared for anything, but before he could act, the stranger gave a quiet chuckle.
"Dead end? Sehr passend, I'd say," the man mocked, his voice carrying a thick german accent. "Jemand will be dead."
Frank's eyes snapped wide. That voice—it wasn't right. It sounded too familiar.
Then the truth hit him like a slap to the face.
"It's you!" Frank growled, eyes narrowing in recognition. "But how..."
The man laughed again, the sound low and mocking, and that was when the truth was revealed.
With a quick motion, the man's face shifted, the features contorting unnaturally. A Ditto—small and deceptive—slid off his face, leaving a perfectly imitated mask of Frank's old adversary, the poacher boss he had encountered weeks ago.
Frank's blood ran cold.
Before he could even react, the poacher's grin widened.
A flash of silver—and in the blink of an eye, the poacher's hand was gripping a dagger, which was already hurtling towards Frank.