Pokémon: The Battle Ranch Chronicles

After the harrowing ordeal with the Sleepers, David finally arrived in Pragengrad, the majestic capital of the Bohemian Kingdom. The city, with its grand architecture and bustling streets, seemed almost surreal compared to the grim shadows he had faced recently. He was met with an elaborate ceremony honoring his years of dedicated service to the League. His time working for the League had been marked by numerous quests, each fraught with danger, and countless lives saved—both human and Pokémon.

The grand hall where the goodbye-party was held was adorned with banners celebrating some of David's accomplishments. Various colleagues gathered, raising their glasses in a toast to his bravery and commitment. Yet, amidst the festivities, David maintained a solemn demeanor. He had made the difficult decision to retire from his position in the League. The role of Frontier Brain—a prestigious and rare opportunity—beckoned him, and he was determined to enjoy it.

"Don't be sad," David reassured his well-wishers. "This isn't the end. I plan to return once my dad has finished his training of new team. There's still so much to do, and I can't wait to take on new missions and quests."

His words carried a promise of return, and though some League members were saddened by his departure, they understood his resolve. David's father, Joe Lindenberg, had been diligently preparing new Pokémon, therefore in the future David would rejoin the League, ready to many new adventures.

After a few days of reflecting and wrapping things up in the capital, David was ready to return home. He boarded a swift flight from Pragengrad to Iglaustadt, the town adjacent to the family ranch. As the plane landed on the small grassy runway, he felt a wave of nostalgia and anticipation. Iglaustadt, with its charming streets and the familiar sight of the rolling hills, welcomed him back like an old friend.

Unlike the farewell party in Pragengrad, the gathering in Iglaustadt was one of joyous celebration. The air was filled with the warm aroma of home-cooked meals and the cheerful sounds of music and laughter. Family, friends, and even some of the ranch's Pokémon greeted him with open arms. It was a welcome-home party, a vibrant testament to his return and a celebration of his achievements and the new chapter that awaited him.

The ranch, with its sprawling fields and familiar barns, seemed to envelop him in a comforting embrace. As he stepped through the front gate, David was greeted by his family's excited faces, eager to hear tales of his adventures and the incredible experiences he had encountered. For David, this was not just a return to his roots, but a time to cherish and recharge before embarking on the next phase of his extraordinary journey.

After David's triumphant return home, the family's reunion was marred by an unexpected and rather unsettling visit just a few days later. It was not as dire as the confrontation with the Giratina worshippers, but it was unsettling nonetheless.

The Lindenberg family gathered in one of the more modest conference rooms of their sprawling ranch. The room was simply furnished, with a polished oak table at its center and comfortable, albeit unadorned, chairs around it. The walls were decorated with family portraits and photographs of past victories, adding a touch of nostalgia to the otherwise tense atmosphere.

Joseph and Anna Lindenberg sat at one side of the table, their faces etched with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. Joseph's usual calm demeanor was tinged with a hint of anxiety as he leaned forward, his hands clasped tightly in front of him. Anna, seated beside him, glanced at their son David, who paced restlessly across the room, his steps echoing slightly on the wooden floor.

Across from them sat a shorter, rotund man dressed in an sharp tailored suit. Count Radim the Third von Lindenberg, a head of their house and a member of the royal council, had arrived with an air of formality and anxiety. His suit, though finely made, seemed slightly out of place in the rustic setting of the ranch. His face, round and ruddy, bore an expression of practiced seriousness, though his eyes betrayed a glimmer of satisfaction.

Joseph, unable to mask his disbelief, stared at Radim as he spoke. "Tell me again, Radim! I can hardly believe what I'm hearing."

Radim cleared his throat and adjusted his fake glasses, his voice taking on a formal tone. "Of course, Joseph. As you know, our ranch has recently been promoted to the status of Battle Ranch, and you and your family have been officially designated as Frontier Brains. This prestigious role not only enhances your reputation but also attracts attention from influential circles."

David, having ceased his pacing, leaned against the wall, his brows furrowed in concern as he listened intently. He didn't choose to comment on how Radim called the Ranch "our".

Radim continued, "In light of this promotion, I've had discussions with Margrave Vladislav, a notable figure in our realm. I proposed that his son, who is currently pursuing studies, would benefit greatly from the experience and training that the ranch offers."

The mention of Vladislav's son and the implication of an additional student at their facility created a ripple of tension in the room. Joseph's expression hardened as he processed the unexpected development. Anna exchanged a worried glance with David, who was already mentally grappling with the implications of this new arrangement.

David's voice cut through the murmur of concern. "So, you're saying that the margrave's son will be coming here to study? What does this mean for our current operations?"

Radim nodded, his gaze steady. "Indeed. It's an opportunity for both the ranch and the royal family. However, it will also require adjustments on your part. The margrave's son will need special attention and integration into your existing programs."

Radim, with his round face and and fat body, looked up from his papers with a practiced air of formality. "You must understand the significance of this arrangement," he said smoothly. "The Margrave Vladislav's son is no ordinary student. The margrave holds the official title of the heir to the kingdom, he's the king's first-born son. This means that the direct grandson of the king will be coming to our ranch."

David's eyes widened as he lately didn't follow the local politics. "Are you telling us that we're about to host here the future heir to the throne?"

Radim nodded, his smile widening. "Precisely. This is a substantial honor for our ranch, and it will greatly benefit your standing in the kingdom."

Joseph, still processing the news, leaned forward. "And why would the margrave allow his son to stay here? What's behind this?"

Radim's gaze shifted slightly, a hint of calculation in his eyes. "If you must know, this arrangement ensures that our seat on the council would be permanent. Our influence in the royal court will be solidified."

Anna's eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Why do you call it 'our' when it's just yours? You're clearly more interested in your own gain than in the family's well-being."

Radim feigned surprise, putting on an exaggeratedly concerned expression. "Annie, dear, how could you say that? I have always cared deeply about our family. This development will strengthen our position in the kingdom and ensure that we have a lasting influence."

Anna's frustration grew. "Do you realize that the king has no real power? We live in a democracy, we elect our parliament and our government rules. The king is merely a symbol. Are you not happy with the way things are right now??"

Radim chuckled, his eyes gleaming with a fervor that bordered on fanaticism. "Ah, my dear Annie, I love democracy."

Anna rolled her eyes, but Radim continued.

"I love it with all my heart. However, the governments shift with each election, and the parliament is often chaotic, like a kindergarten where everyone is shouting and no one listens. New faces emerge after each term, lacking the experience to govern effectively. The royal court, on the other hand, provides a continuity that is invaluable. Being on the royal council is an immense honor, a position of stability and respect. You cannot imagine the prestige it affords."

"Okay, and tell us, cousin," Anna continued, her voice edged with both sarcasm and frustration, "what is the difference between the permanent seat and your current seat? What is it called? A temporary seat? A non-permanent seat? It doesn't matter. You're there for your entire life. So what is the freakin' difference??"

Radim leaned back in his chair, a smug smile playing on his lips as he answered. "We wouldn't have to worry about many things in the future."

"Such as??" Anna pressed, crossing her arms tightly.

Radim's gaze swept over the room, as if assessing how best to convey his point. "Look. I understand you have little interest in the capital, in politics and in the court. But our family name has always been closely connected to that place. Our duty as the Lindenbergs is to help guide our great kingdom toward better tomorrows."

Anna's eyes narrowed. "Well, I am no Lindenberg, not by blood anyway. But why do we have to babysit the king's grandson for this permanent seat?"

Radim's expression shifted to one of practiced diplomacy. "As you surely know, the youngest generation of our royal family has always spent several months in various gyms. There, the princes and princesses learn how to bond with Pokémon. I proposed to Margrave Vladislav that instead of choosing a traditional gym, his son could spend time here, at our facility."

"Why do you have to call it OUR, when it's not yours!!" both Anna and David had the same thought, but neither was resolute enough to voice it.

Joe, who had been silently fuming, could no longer hold his tongue. "Okay, I get it. There's the PR and marketing strategies. We are promoting ourselves as well to have new trainers come here. But why did you have to go straight to Vladislav? Why couldn't you approach someone further down the line to the throne? He is the heir apparent for Mew's sake! We've just received the papers to start the frontier thing here, and you want to bring a kid who is the son of the crown prince? There are so many more people at the court, as you always tell us. Why couldn't you choose someone of smaller reputation? This is a huge risk. If we screw something up, this place could be shut down. And as I know you, you'll say we're just your distant relatives, and we'll get no help from you."

Radim's eyes flashed with indignation, but his voice remained icy. "JOE!! How can you say that??" He feigned shock, but his fingers drummed impatiently on the table.

The room fell into a heavy, uncomfortable silence, the tension palpable. David, feeling the weight of the situation, cleared his throat and finally spoke up.

"What is the kid like? Can you describe him?" he asked, trying to defuse the mounting tension.

"His full name is Charles Ferdinand Boleslav William Sigismund, seventeenth Duke of High Ca—"

"No," David interrupted, waving his hand dismissively. "Just the regular name will do."

Radim's eyes narrowed slightly at being interrupted, but he complied. "They call him Charles. Or Charlie."

"Okay, and what else?" David pressed, eager for more useful information.

Radim cleared his throat, clearly enjoying the opportunity to share royal details. "He's twelve years old. Since he's the first son of the heir, he's been raised at court from birth. He's had a civil upbringing."

"Meaning?" David asked, leaning forward.

Radim bristled at the implication. "He's not yet fully immersed in the court traditions."

David snorted in amusement. "You mean, he's not obsessed with listing all the titles, keeping records of who is a count, who is a duke, and who is a baron. He doesn't care about who goes first and who goes second during greetings. And he's not into the ceremonial nonsense…"

"This is no nonsense, my dear David," Radim retorted sharply. "These traditions maintain our civilization in order and on civilized level. We are no barbarians thanks to them."

David shook his head, clearly unimpressed. "Okay, so we know he's a young kid who's not into royal protocol. What is he into?"

Radim started to babble about the significance of the task and the royal family's expectations, but David's attention drifted. He pulled out his phone and began searching for information about the young prince online.

"… and then we will be able to keep the two castles…" Radim was droning on when David abruptly cut him off.

"Sorry, Radim. I just found something. It says here that Charles likes sports—football, tennis, swimming, and climbing. And he's into Pokémon battles. Looks like he could be alright. Not like somebody," David said, glancing pointedly at Radim's corpulent figure.

Radim's face reddened, but he masked his irritation.

Joe remarked. "Well, even if he's easy to get along with, we're still lacking a proper gym system."

"What system?" Radim asked, puzzled by the term, as he was not a trainer himself.

"You see, the rules for the gyms in our kingdom were established long ago by the famous writer, Sir Foglar," Joe began, leaning forward with a serious expression. "There's a gym leader at the top, and beneath them, there are several chiefs who can act as stand-ins or even replace the leader. Usually, there are three chiefs, but the number can vary. Each chief has its own team of trainers, distinguished by various methods—be it by numbers, symbols, or even a specific Pokémon mascot. Teams often use different colors, such as blue, red, and yellow. Young trainers aspiring to join the gym must choose one of these teams. They then compete in various contests, and the winning team gets to manage the gym's daily operations, including overseeing pre-battles where challengers fight for badges. There are also weekly contests where other chiefs and their teams can compete for the privilege of serving. This tradition support friendship, team spirit, competition, and various improvements."

Radim looked intrigued but slightly confused. "Huh, I didn't know that. But I'm no trainer, so what's the problem?"

Anna sighed in exasperation. "The problem is that we don't have such a system here. It's a hallmark of gyms. And without these two key elements…"

"Which key elements?" Radim asked, his brow furrowing in puzzlement.

"Were you not listening? Team spirit and competition," Anna said, rolling her eyes in frustration. "Without them, the training will lack the depth and effectiveness that comes from being part of a team. And from having a healthy competition."

Joe nodded, adding, "Exactly. These two things are very important for the development of young trainers. They won't just be learning about Pokémon; they'll be learning how to work with others and how to compete in a healthy and motivating way."

Radim looked taken aback. "So, you're saying that despite our best efforts, the prince won't get the same experience here as he would in a proper gym?"

Joe continued, "Yes. If and I mean IF not when we decide to do this, it's vital that we understand how other princes have been educated. We need to know if there's a checklist or specific expectations for this royal visit. You came here talking about your permanent seat on the council, but you haven't provided any concrete details about what's expected of us in this new role."

Radim shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "I see your point. I'll make some inquiries and see if I can get more information about the royal education requirements. I guess there would be some specific guidelines for those study stays."

David, who had been listening intently, nodded in agreement. "We need to be prepared and ensure that we meet the expectations. If we're going to host the king's grandson, we must offer him a interesting and meaningful experience."

Radim stood up, adjusting his suit. "Very well. I'll get back to you with more details. But remember, this opportunity is significant. It's a chance to enhance our family's position and influence. Let's not waste it."

After Radim's departure, Joe, Anna, and David remained seated in the conference room, each lost in their own thoughts. The room was filled with an uneasy silence as they grappled with the gravity of the situation.

"This is crazy," Anna finally broke the silence, her voice tinged with frustration.

"You know, Mom," David shrugged, trying to lighten the mood, "I think this could turn into an interesting opportunity for us."

"Oh, shut up. You sound just like that jackass," Anna retorted, her frown deepening. "Radim is clearly just looking out for himself."

"I get it, but think about the little prince," David continued, his tone more optimistic. "I know you have a lot on your plate with the ranch and everything. But I've just come back after years away, so I'll be here full-time. If we create a interesting and engaging schedule for him, he'll remember his time here fondly. And imagine the publicity! If we post photos online or if he mentions us in an interview, it could attract a lot of attention from trainers. That means increased visits and more money for the ranch."

"I know, Dave, but it's still a huge gamble. What if he gets bored or something happens to him? That could be disastrous for us," Anna countered, her concern evident.

"And why would anything happen? I've said I'll be with him all the time. You know my background as a special field agent—I've done some job in security field. Besides, I'm sure the royal family will send someone to discuss the details and ensure everything is prepared. There will probably be undercover trainers here to watch over and protect him."

Anna's gaze softened slightly, but she remained unconvinced. "I see your point, but I still don't like it." She turned to her husband, curious about his opinion. "You were suspiciously quiet. What do you think?"

Joe rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I understand your concerns, dear. There are a lot of potential risks. We have wild Pokémon that roam freely, and we can't predict their behavior. Plus, there's that thing in the lake—what if it decides to make an appearance? I don't want to deal with questions about that, or about some old Pokémon that are several centuries old. We definitely don't want the government snooping around them."

He continued, his tone more resolute, "But I've dealt with royal guards before. They're incredibly skilled. A friend of mine used to be one, and he told me that to qualify, you need to have several dragon-type Pokémon. That's no small feat. I'll reach out to him and see if he can provide us with more information. I agree with David—there will likely be both official and undercover protection for the prince."

David's eyes widened in interest. "You need dragon Pokémon to be a royal guard? That's pretty cool!"

Joe gave a wry smile, but Anna was not amused. "Cool or not, you're just like that son of yours. Anyway, we need to figure out the accommodation details. I don't want to wait for Radim to get us any information. It could be unreliable. Joe, you said you have contacts in the royal guard. Contact them and find out what you can. David, you might have come across people connected to the royal family through your work. If so, reach out and get whatever contacts you can. The more information we have, the better. We need to be fully prepared."

Both Joe and David nodded in agreement.

Anna, her mind already racing with ideas, said, "I'm thinking about the accommodation. We might need to build a new structure—a smaller one for special occasions like this. It should have updated security systems. But I'm not sure if we can afford to pay all that."

David chuckled. "We can always send the invoice to the king. Or to Radim," he joked, making his parents laugh. They all knew that Radim was notoriously short on cash and was deeply in debt to Joe, among others.

"I don't think that will be necessary, Mom," David said, still chuckling. "I have connections in the league and the agency. They have a lot of experience with moving, housing, and securing VIPs. And with my background, maybe they'll provide us with some equipment or assistance at no cost."

Anna's expression softened slightly. "Well, if you can pull that off, it would be a huge help."

David nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "I'll start making calls and gathering information. We'll make sure everything is in place before the prince arrives."

As they each took on their respective tasks, the family felt a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the challenges ahead, they were ready to face them together, ensuring that their new role would be a success.

Several hours later

"Wow, that's big news!" Eva exclaimed, her eyes widening with surprise as she took in the details of the plan.

"It certainly is," David agreed, his voice tinged with excitement. "It's an amazing opportunity for us. And who knows, when Jake is older, he might benefit from this too. Just imagine if our son became close friends with the future king."

Eva raised an eyebrow skeptically. "Jake is six years younger. By the time the prince is older, he'll probably have different interests. Do you really think a future king will want to hang out with a kid half his age?"

David chuckled. "He's still closer in age to Jake than to me. Besides, it's not just about friendship. There could be significant opportunities for Jake."

Eva sighed, shaking her head. "I know, but you were away for so long. And now you're going to be spending all your time with this prince. What about us? Do you even remember our little boy?"

"Of course I do!" David protested, a bit hurt. "I've missed you both so much. I'm looking forward to spending time with Jake."

The pair walked holding hands, heading towards the Pokémon Center to pick up their son. The crisp afternoon air was filled with the familiar sounds of the bustling center.

As they approached the entrance, Eva's sister-in-law, Rachel, spotted them and called out, "Hello, Eva! And who's this handsome stranger by your side?" She flashed a playful grin, having not seen David in several months.

David returned her grin. "Funny as usual, Rachel. I guess I've been out of the loop for a while. Where's Jake?"

"In the back room," Rachel replied, her tone warm. "He's with that egg of his."

David stopped in his tracks, his eyebrows knitting together in surprise. "You gave him an egg?"

Eva shrugged. "What could we do? He found it and was fascinated by it."

Rachel nodded, understandingly. "He's really taken to it. He keeps asking me all sorts of questions about raising a baby Pokémon. I'm sure he'll be fine."

Rachel hesitated, then continued, "Just one thing…"

David looked at her expectantly. "What is it?"

Rachel sighed. "Just make sure to explain to him that it probably won't be a Cubone. Right now, it looks more like it could be a Sandshrew, Salandit, or maybe even a Magby. I don't want him to be disappointed if it doesn't hatch into something he was hoping for."

David nodded. "Got it. We'll make sure to explain that to him."

When they entered the back room, Jake's face lit up at the sight of his parents. Influenced by his mischievous auntie Rachel, he initially played a little prank, pretending not to recognize David and making a show of confusion. His eyes sparkled as he looked from Eva to David.

"Mom, who is that?" he asked pointing at his father. Even though he was there when the plane with David landed, he pretended not to know him now.

David played along, his grin widening. "And who might you be, young man?"

Jake's serious expression lasted only a moment before he burst into laughter and rushed to hug his parents. "Dad! Mom!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with joy. "I missed you!"

David scooped Jake up into his arms, holding him close. "I missed you too, buddy. How's the egg doing?"

Jake beamed. "It's doing great! Aunt Rachel's been telling me all about it. Can you believe it might not be a Cubone?"

David chuckled, gently ruffling Jake's hair. "Yeah, we'll have to wait and see what it hatches into. But no matter what it is, I'm sure it'll be special."

Eva smiled at the scene, feeling a wave of relief and happiness. Despite the uncertainties and challenges ahead, she was glad to have her family together again. And as they left the Pokémon Center, she couldn't help but feel a sense of optimism about the future.

As they strolled back towards their house, Jake's excitement was palpable. He peppered his father with a rapid-fire series of questions, his curiosity seemingly boundless.

"Dad, what's it like training baby Pokémon? Do they already know some own moves? And how do you teach them new attacks?" Jake asked, barely pausing to catch his breath.

Eva leaned in and whispered to David, "Just show him one of your Pokémon. I'm sure he'll be thrilled."

David's face lit up with a knowing smile. "Actually, I have something special to show both of you," he said, reaching for his belt and buckling off two Poké Balls.

With a flick of his wrist, David released the first Poké Ball, and a small, green, snake-like Pokémon materialized before them. It had small, dainty hands and feet, a yellow collar around its neck, and its tail ended in a leaf-shaped flourish.

Snivy

Level: 10

Gender: Female

Type: Grass

Affinity: Grass (Full)

Moves: Tackle (8), Vine Whip (7), Wrap (7), Energy Ball (5), Seed Bomb (3), Coil (3), Endure (2)

Abilities: Overgrow – with low health, Snivy's Grass-type moves are powered up

Weak to: Flying, Poison, Bug, Fire, Ice

Resistant to: Ground, Water, Grass, Electric

"This little one is quite young," David said, crouching down to Jake's level. "Meet Snivy."

"Sni. Snivy!" the Pokémon chirped, its voice high-pitched and cheerful.

Jake's eyes widened with delight. "Can I hold it, Dad?"

"Of course," David replied, "but you need to ask Snivy if it's okay first."

Jake, with wide-eyed seriousness, turned to the Pokémon. "Can I hold you, Snivy?"

Snivy seemed to consider this for a moment before giving a soft, approving squeak. Jake gently scooped the grass-type Pokémon into his arms. Snivy relaxed instantly, closing her eyes and nestling into Jake's embrace. She seemed perfectly at ease in his hold.

Jake beamed, his gaze flickering between Snivy and his father. "This is amazing! Snivy feels so soft and warm. What's the second Poké Ball for, Dad?"

David chuckled, giving Jake a playful wink. "That one's a bit more for your mom," he said, nodding towards Eva.

With a smooth motion, David opened the second Poké Ball. A large, imposing figure emerged—a Pokémon standing almost two meters tall. Its body was covered in rocky protrusions, with jagged, dark rock formations on its shoulders, face, and even a large rock atop its head. Its front limbs ended in enormous, axe-like appendages made of black stone, which looked capable of cleaving through steel with ease.

Kleavor

Level: 45

Name: Ryan

Gender: Male

Type: Bug / Rock

Affinity: Bug (Full), Rock (Full), Flying (Expert)

Moves: Quick Attack (43), Heavy Slam (43), Rock Slide (42), Air Slash (40), X-Scissor (44), Stone Axe (32), Fury Cutter (41), Smack Down (31), Double Team (40), Slash (40), Focus Energy (39), Swords Dance (42), Brick Break (39), Trailblaze (38), Stealth Rock (30), Aerial Ace (38), Counter (31), Night Slash (41), Wing Attack (30)

Abilities: Swarm – with low health, Kleavor's Bug-type moves are powered up

Sheer Force – removes additional effets of Kleavor's moves, but increases their power

Weak to: Rock, Steel, Water

Resistant to: Normal, Poison

Resistance added: Grass

It was Kleavor.

"Is that Ryan? The Scyther that I gave you a few years ago?" Eva asked, her eyes widening in disbelief. As a researcher in bug-type oriented lab, seeing a rare bug Pokémon was a real treat for her.

"Yeah, that's him," David confirmed with a nod, a proud smile on his face.

"Wow, I've only heard about this evolution," Eva marveled, her gaze fixed on the imposing Pokémon before her. "But to see it in person... how did you manage this?"

"Well," David began, "I met this historian who was researching ancient Hisui. He knew how to perform the evolution, but he didn't have a Scyther. I was interested in witnessing what the evolution would look like firsthand, so we struck a deal."

"That's amazing!" Eva squealed with delight, her excitement mirrored in her bright eyes. She had the same enthusiastic expression that Jake wore when he was around new Pokémon.

"Can I borrow him and take him to the lab for some tests?" Eva asked eagerly as she was fascinated by all bug-types.

"Whoa, wait a second," David said, raising an eyebrow. "You're not planning to dissect him, are you?"

"Don't be ridiculous!" Eva playfully slapped him on the arm. "I just want to observe his reactions and get some readings on his moves."

"Moves? What about a quick battle, instead?" David inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"What?" Eva laughed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You would actually battle against your own wife?"

Jake, who had been watching the exchange with keen interest, suddenly perked up. "Mom, you could totally beat this Pokémon! You almost won last Saturday!"

Ryan, the Kleavor made an unpleasant sound, as the small kid suggested that some other Pokémon could beat him. David laughed and patted his Pokémon-partner on the shoulder.

"Oh Jakey," Eva said, glancing at their son with a thoughtful expression. "You want me to battle, too?"

David chuckled, sensing an opportunity. "Why not? Let's do it!"

With renewed enthusiasm, Eva and David headed towards one of the empty battlefields. David and Kleavor took their positions at one end, while Eva took Jake's hand and walked to the opposite side.

"Okay, I need you to cheer for me, sweetheart. Can you do that?" Eva asked, giving Jake a warm smile.

"Of course, Mommy!" Jake nodded earnestly, holding Snivy close to his chest.

Eva with her son reached the designated spot on the field. She was thinking which Pokémon to send out.

"Come out, Maya!" she called out her first and strongest Pokémon as she wanted to impress her husband.

From Eva's shadow on the ground, a large, green, owl-like creature materialized. Maya, with her impressive wingspan and sharp eyes, let out a soft hoot as she surveyed the battlefield. The owl's plumage shimmered in the fading sunlight, adding a majestic aura to her already formidable presence.

Decidueye

Level: 59

Name: Maya

Gender: Female

Type: Grass / Ghost

Affinity: Grass (Full), Ghost (Full), Flying (Expert)

Moves: Phantom Force (52 to 55), Take Down (55), Light Screen (49 to 52), Sunny Day (48 to 50), Confuse Ray (45 to 49), Hex (56), Growl (47 to 49), Leafage (48), Spirit Shackle (56), Shadow Sneak (52), Razor Leaf (53), Synthesis (39 to 42), Nasty Plot (51 to 53), Sucker Punch (55), Feather Dance (49), Brave Bird (58), Leaf Blade (56), Poltergeist (58), Low Kick (45), Air Cutter (41), Aura Sphere (37 to 38), Frenzy Plant (46), Grassy Terain (53), Roost (51 to 55)

Abilities: Overgrow – With low health, Decidueye's Grass-type moves are powered up

Long Reach – Decidueye uses its moves without making contact with the target

Weak to: Flying, Ghost, Fire, Ice, (Dark)

Immune to: Normal, Fighting

Resistant to: Ground, Water, Grass, Electric

Weakness removed: Dark

Maya, still at the same level she had been when Eva and Jake encountered the Sneasel, had nonetheless refined and leveled some of her moves.

"Cool entrance, Maya," David greeted his wife's Pokémon, admiring the Decidueye as she fluffed her feathers proudly. "You look quite strong."

"Are you ready, Eva?" he asked, a determined glint in his eye.

"I am. And you?" Eva responded, her voice steady.

David and Ryan readied themselves at their end, while Eva and Maya prepared as well. Jake, clutching Snivy and bubbling with excitement, took a seat on the bench behind his mom, eager to see the showdown unfold.

"Good. Ryan, let's start with Swords Dance!" David commanded, intending to enhance his Pokémon's offensive capabilities.

Eva mirrored David's strategy. "We'll start with Nasty Plot," she instructed, aiming to boost Maya's special attack.

With Decidueye's higher level giving her an advantage, Maya completed her status move first. Eva seized the opportunity.

"Use Air Cutter!"

Maya flapped her wings powerfully, sending a barrage of razor-sharp wind blades slicing through the air towards Kleavor.

"Ryan, Quick Attack to dodge!" David ordered urgently.

Kleavor, having just finished his Swords Dance, launched into a Quick Attack. However, normal-type moves are ineffective against ghost Pokémon like Decidueye. Especially, when the targets is on higher level. As Ryan barreled towards Maya, he was momentarily disoriented, passing straight through her without landing a hit.

"Damn it, I forgot to mention that!" David muttered under his breath.

Seizing the moment, Eva acted swiftly. "Quickly, Confuse Ray!"

Two swirling violet rings of psychic energy shot from Maya's eyes, enveloping Ryan. The Bug/Rock-type Pokémon was immediately beset by illusions, his vision filled with multiple images of Decidueye.

"Ryan, stay focused and use Focus Energy!" David instructed, hoping to increase the likelihood of a critical hit and regain control of the situation.

"Hex!" Eva commanded smugly as she wanted to use the move which is stronger against confused targets.

Maya conjured a dark, swirling sphere of ghost-type energy, which transformed into several dark blue rings and hurtled towards Kleavor.

Simultaneously, David shouted, "X-Scissor!"

Kleavor, despite the confusion, managed to target Maya. The powerful bug-type move slammed into Decidueye with a vicious impact. Almost instantly, the Hex followed, striking Kleavor with the force of a ghostly tidal wave. The combination of confusion and the Hex attack sent Kleavor sprawling, a green aura crackling around him as he struggled to regain his footing.

"Ryan, are you alright?" David called out in concern.

Kleavor, now kneeling and panting heavily, had smoke billowing from his body. The green aura indicated his Swarm ability had activated.

"So, Ryan activated Swarm," Eva noted with a hint of admiration. "Maya, let's attack with Brave Bird!"

Eva chose to use Maya's strongest attack hoping to win the battle with this move.

"Ryan, another X-Scissor!" David ordered, rallying his Pokémon for one final push.

"Go!!"

"Goo!!!"

Both trainers shouted as Maya, enveloped in brilliant white flying-type energy, and Ryan, his axes glowing with green bug-type energy, charged towards each other. The clash was spectacular.

BOOOOM

A thunderous explosion rocked the battlefield, sending plumes of smoke billowing into the sky. As the dust settled, the two Pokémon were revealed, both breathing heavily but standing firm, showing their determination.

Eva and David, poised to issue their next commands, were momentarily distracted by Jake's exuberant shout.

"That was totally awesome!" Jake cheered from Eva's side, his eyes wide with excitement.

Both parents laughed, momentarily forgetting their competitive edge.

"Yes, it was awesome," Eva chuckled ruffling Jake's hair affectionately.

David assessed the situation, noting that Maya's higher level had given her an edge as she looked much better than Ryan. And if they continued battling, his Kleavor would probably fall down and faint.

"A draw?" he asked, a hint of relief in his voice.

"Yeah," Eva confirmed, "otherwise we'd have to go back to Rachel and heal those two."

She inwardly sighed with relief that the battle was over, knowing they'd have to again convince Jake to leave the Pokémon centre for the second time.

After the exhilarating battle, David, Eva, and Jake made their way back to their cozy home. The setting sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the landscape. The familiar sight of their ranch filled them with a sense of belonging and comfort.

Once they arrived, the family rolled up their sleeves and headed to the kitchen, eager to prepare dinner together. David and Eva worked side by side, chopping vegetables and seasoning dishes, while Jake and their Pokémon lent a helping hand—or rather, a helping paw. Snivy and Maya eagerly assisted, with Snivy arranging vegetables in neat piles and Maya using her wings to gently stir the pot.

"Look at you two, so helpful!" Eva chuckled, her eyes sparkling with happiness as she glanced at her husband and son. "It's great to have everyone back together."

Jake beamed, his face flushed with excitement. "And look at Snivy and Maya! They're really good at this!"

David smiled, his heart swelling with contentment. "It's amazing to be home with all of you. This place has always felt special, but having you all here makes it perfect."

The evening passed with laughter and chatter as they enjoyed a delicious homemade meal. The table was filled with hearty dishes, and the aroma of the food mingled with the soft sounds of Pokémon and family conversation. As they ate, David shared stories from his recent travels. He described the bustling markets of distant cities, the serene beauty of ancient landscapes, and the incredible Pokémon he had encountered. Though he left out the darker aspects of his recent experiences, his tales captivated Eva and Jake, transporting them to far-off places.

"...and then I saw this incredible volcanic region," David concluded, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm. "The Pokémon there were unlike anything I've ever seen. It's a place I'd love to visit again someday."

Eva glanced at the clock, realizing how late it had grown. "It's getting pretty late, Dave. Jake should be heading to bed soon."

David nodded, and together they helped clear the table. As they finished tidying up, the comforting routine of bedtime began. Jake, tired but happy, was guided to his room by his parents. The walls of his room were adorned with colorful Pokémon posters, and his bed was covered in a cozy blanket featuring his favorite Pokémon.

David and Eva tucked Jake in, his small face glowing with the light of the bedside lamp.

"Good night, champ," David said, smoothing Jake's hair.

"Sleep well, Jakey," Eva added, kissing him gently on the forehead.

Jake smiled up at them, his eyes heavy with sleep. "Good night, Mom. Good night, Dad."

As the parents quietly left the room, the soft sounds of Jake's peaceful breathing filled the air. They lingered for a moment in the doorway, sharing a tender glance. It was a simple moment, but it was filled with a profound sense of happiness and completeness.

David and Eva headed downstairs, feeling a deep satisfaction as they reflected on the day. The challenges of the past seemed distant, and for now, their world was perfectly in place.

They settled into the living room, the gentle hum of conversation fading as they looked forward to the new chapter ahead. Their family was together again, and despite the uncertainties of the future, the warmth and love they shared made every moment truly special.