Pokemon: A Gym Leader's Rise(SI)

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric as spectators filled the stands, eager to witness the first match of the 6V6 Pokemon battles.

Among the buzz of the crowd, two trainers stood at opposite ends of the battlefield: Gladion and Rex, both from Moonwood Town, a familiar face from Gladion's school days.

As the announcer's voice boomed, introducing the competitors, Gladion couldn't help but smirk. His mind drifted back to their school days, recalling Rex's overconfidence and frequent missteps. "This should be entertaining," he mused.

Rex, on the other hand, was brimming with determination. He had spent years training, aiming to surpass the shadow of his childhood rival. With a confident stride, he approached the center of the battlefield, locking eyes with Gladion.

"You might have defeated me back when we were kids," Rex began, his voice loud enough to echo through the stadium, "but this time, things will be different. I'm not the same trainer you once knew."

Gladion raised an eyebrow, a playful grin tugging at his lips. "Oh, I remember you, Rex. Weren't you the one who tried to catch a Pikachu with a net? How's that strategy working out for you?"

Rex's cheeks flushed slightly. "Laugh all you want, Gladion. Today, I'll beat you in front of the entire region and finally step out of your shadow."

Before Gladion could retort, a flash of light erupted from his belt. Nyx, his ever-curious Umbreon, had released herself from her Poké Ball as she couldn't stop herself from joining all the drama. She stretched gracefully before glancing up at her trainer.

[Master,] Nyx purred, her voice dripping with mock innocence, [Is this the same Rex who thought teaching a Magikarp 'Splash' would make it a formidable opponent?]

Gladion chuckled, patting Nyx on the head. "The very same, Nyx."

Rex frowned, unable to understand Nyx's words but sensing the jest. "What did she say?"

Gladion waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, nothing. Just reminiscing about your... unique training methods."

Rex's frown deepened. "Keep underestimating me, Gladion. It'll make my victory all the sweeter."

With a sigh, Gladion recalled Nyx to her Poké Ball. "We'll see about that."

"You know, Gladion," Rex now had a sly smile creeping across his face, "this battle isn't just about proving I'm better than you."

Gladion raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Oh? Enlighten me, then."

Rex's grin widened. "I'm going to show Gwen that I'm the superior trainer. After I defeat you here, I'll face her in the finals and win her heart."

For a moment, Gladion stood there, processing Rex's words. Then, his eyes widened in realization. "Wait... You have a crush on Gwen? And all this time, you've been trying to outdo me because of that?"

Rex crossed his arms, nodding confidently. "Exactly. Gwen always took your side back in school. But once I beat you and then her, she'll see who the real champion is."

Gladion couldn't help but be spooked

'Dude, Gwen's my sister. So all this time, he has been jealous because you thought she favored me over you? And why did he even fell for her? She and her Gengar only used to scare him. Maybe he has a fetish for it. I can't even blame him for being so childish since he is technically a 10 year old kid.'

Gladion just gave a wry smile to Rex.

Rex in turn rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassment evident. "Let's... let's just get on with the battle."

Gladion nodded, still grinning. "Agreed. But for the record, Gwen would wipe the floor with you."

The referee stepped forward, signaling the start of the match. Rex, with a flourish, released his first Pokémon. "Fearow, let's show them what we've got!"

The large avian Pokémon screeched, taking to the skies with impressive speed. Its sharp eyes locked onto Gladion and his released Pokemonwhich was apparently a Magmar.

Gladion had reached for Guy's Poké Ball, ready to continue his strategy of relying on his trusted Machamp. However, before he could act, another Poké Ball on his belt burst open.

In a blaze of flames, Arsenal the Magmar emerged, landing on the battlefield with a defiant [Mag-Marrr!]

He had gottenbored of waiting to battle for so many rounds and he couldn't wait any longer. He wanted to show the world his new form.

The crowd gasped, and even the announcer seemed taken aback. "Now, would you look at that! Gladion has sent out a Pokémon other than his Machamp! I was beginning to think Machamp was his only Pokémon. Let's see how his Magmar fares against Rex's Fearow."

Gladion sighed, casting a sideways glance at Arsenal. "Impatient as always, aren't you?"

Arsenal crossed his arms, flames flickering around his body, and huffed. [Mag-mar,] he retorted which translated into "It's about time I had some fun."

Rex was also surprised as he had thought Gladion would be using his Machamp so he had thrown a flying type pokemon to have the type advantage.

He still went with his attack strategy smirked, seizing the opportunity. "A Magmar, huh? Fearow, let's show them the power of the skies! Use Sky Attack!"

Fearow ascended higher, its body glowing as it descended towards Gladion. Arsenal had a natural Scary Face activated as Fearrow interrupted him as he soaked the awe of the crowd.

Arsenal's eyes gleamed menacingly as he fixed his gaze on Fearow. An aura of intimidation radiated from him, causing Fearow to falter mid-air. The once-confident avian now hesitated, its Sky Attack losing momentum.

"Now, Arsenal, Fire Punch!" Gladion commanded.

With surprising agility, Arsenal leaped into the air, his fist engulfed in roaring flames. He delivered a powerful punch to Fearow, sending it spiraling back to the ground. The impact left a scorch mark on Fearow's plumage, and it got immediately knocked out.

Rex's eyes widened in disbelief.

The crowd erupted into cheers, but none were louder than those from Erza, Gladion's mother, who had been instrumental in training Arsenal.

"That's my little Arsenal! Show them Mama's love!" Erza's voice boomed across the stadium, her enthusiasm unmistakable.

Upon hearing her, Arsenal's fierce demeanor wavered. His fiery exterior couldn't hide the flush of embarrassment that spread across his face. He cast a sideways glance toward the stands, internally groaning, [It's that demoness again.]

Despite his formidable strength and intimidating presence, Arsenal couldn't escape the overbearing affection of his trainer's mother. .

Even Gladion couldn't suppress a chuckle at the sight of his mighty Magmar's meek reaction. "Don't let it get to you, Arsenal. Focus on the battle," he advised, though the amusement in his voice was evident.

Arsenal shook his head, trying to dispel the embarrassment, and refocused on the battlefield, determined to finish the match with the dignity befitting a Pokémon of his caliber.

In the VIP cabin, Agatha looked at Blaine with a smirk "To think you would have so much common with your grandson. Would not it be entertaining to watch your Magmar battle it out with his Magmar in the future when he is ready?"

Blaine just snorted "Shut up Agatha, You should be more worried of Gwen's Gengar beating yours."

Agatha just gave him a evil crackle.

-------Author Notes------

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