NOVEL NEXT Chapter 6: Chapter 6: Rematch with Meowth
"Machop, Close Combat!"
Though their training had lasted only a few days, Machop could clearly feel its newfound strength.
Take this moment, for instance: the Paras, at level 11, stood no chance against Machop's relentless strikes. Its small frame was sent flying, unable to withstand the onslaught.
Combining the disruptive move Leer with the explosive power Machop had developed during training, it became clear that weaker Pokémon hit by Leer were effectively immobilized. Before they could act, Machop's Close Combat would land decisively, ending the battle swiftly.
After defeating the last wild Pokémon in the area, Machop's energy surged. Its level rose from 14 to 15, and it even learned a new move: Seismic Toss.
"Machop, let's take a break and work on mastering Seismic Toss. After that, we'll go back and settle things with that Meowth once and for all," Ron said.
Even though Machop hadn't expended much energy, Ron instinctively approached and tended to his Pokémon's condition, ensuring it was in peak form.
Machop, eager to perfect its new move and put it into action, fully supported Ron's plan.
It wasn't until a little past 1 PM that Ron and Machop leisurely arrived at the area where Meowth resided.
Over the past few days, Machop had faced Meowth several times. However, each time, just as victory was within grasp, Meowth managed to escape.
But this time, Ron was determined to bring things to a conclusion.
It didn't take long before the familiar figure of Meowth appeared, almost as if it had come looking for them.
Unlike other wild Pokémon that often grew impatient, Meowth's eyes brimmed with fighting spirit—a quality that had caught Ron's interest and made him want to capture this particular Meowth.
"Meowth!"
The sharp cry signaled the start of the battle as Meowth lunged at Machop, opening with a Fake Out to seize the initiative.
"Machop, Leer!"
The wide-area move forced Meowth to abandon its attack, shifting its focus to a flanking maneuver against Machop.
"Left side—Karate Chop!"
Machop responded instantly to Ron's command. Its arm, glowing faintly, slashed through the air with precision and power, like a sword unsheathed.
Meowth, quick on its feet, abruptly halted its attack and darted to Machop's rear. Dark energy swirled around its fangs as it prepared a Bite.
If the attack landed, the added Dark energy would inflict even greater pain on its opponent.
"Behind you—Leer!"
Once again, Meowth chose to evade rather than confront the move head-on.
Since Machop had broken free from Hypnosis with its level advantage back when it was only at level 13—delivering a heavy blow to Meowth—Meowth had avoided using Hypnosis against Machop ever since.
Now at a distance, Meowth stood off against Machop, carefully gauging its next move.
At level 11, Meowth had been training hard over the past few days, but it still fell four levels behind Machop. The level gap meant its attacks were easily countered by Machop.
Under these circumstances, most wild Pokémon would have opted to flee. But Meowth was different. Unless there was truly no chance left, it would never retreat.
Or rather, when Meowth did run, it was purely a survival tactic. If it died, its ambitions would amount to nothing.
"Meowth!"
Another sharp cry marked Meowth's renewed charge. It used Fake Out once more, attempting to draw Machop's attention.
"Left side—Karate Chop!"
This time, Meowth didn't dodge. Instead, it attacked head-on.
Its Technician ability activated, boosting the power of its Fake Out to 60, surpassing the 50 base power of Karate Chop. This helped offset some of the disadvantage from its lower level.
The moment the moves collided, Meowth felt as though its paw had shattered.
Still, it stubbornly held its ground, preparing to unleash its strongest move, Iron Tail.
It was Meowth's last resort. With Machop's increasing level, its earlier tactics only delayed its inevitable defeat. Only by attacking with all its might could it hope for victory.
"Machop, Close Combat again!"
Before Meowth could execute Iron Tail, a white glow surrounded it.
The move Encore had taken effect, forcing Meowth to repeatedly use Fake Out.
Confused but resigned, Meowth realized it was done for. A faint smile crossed its face as it braced for the end.
Machop's Close Combat struck with overwhelming force, sending Meowth sprawling.
Following up with Leer, Machop ensured Meowth couldn't flee. It then displayed a hidden burst of speed, closing the gap instantly and delivering another Karate Chop that sent Meowth flying.
Machop stood still, watching as Meowth hit the ground.
Though battered, Meowth had not yet fainted. It struggled to stand, using the last of its strength to rise.
But after several attempts, it collapsed, utterly drained.
"See, Meowth? This is the difference between having a Trainer and going it alone!" Ron said, crouching before the exhausted Pokémon.
"At first, you could hold your own against Machop. But now, even at your best, you can barely scratch him."
"If you want to grow stronger, join me. I'll help you reach new heights. And if the day ever comes when you feel I can't help you anymore or I become a burden, I won't stop you from leaving."
Ron extended his hand sincerely toward Meowth.
He believed that day would never come. He would push Meowth to become its strongest self, to scale the highest peaks.
Meowth stared deeply into Ron's eyes, sensing his honesty and determination.
Its claws suddenly shot out, aiming straight for Ron's face.
At such close range, even Machop couldn't react in time, rushing toward Meowth with all its might.
But Ron, the target, didn't flinch. He simply watched Meowth without fear or the slightest intention of dodging.
Just centimeters from Ron's face, Meowth's claws froze. With a resigned sigh, it placed its paw in Ron's outstretched hand.
A warm, restorative energy flowed from Ron to Meowth, rapidly healing its injuries and replenishing its strength.
"Welcome aboard, Meowth!"
Excitedly, Ron retrieved a Poké Ball and tossed it at Meowth.
Though Ron had imagined this moment countless times, experiencing it firsthand stirred an uncontrollable excitement in him.
The ball opened upon impact, enveloping Meowth in a red light.
Without any resistance, Meowth willingly entered the Poké Ball, becoming Ron's second Pokémon.
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