The New Normal - 15-15

The New Normal – 15-15 – New Partners

I ended up watching Steven’s battle against Drake with Karen, Lorelei, and Lucian. My girlfriend had other things to attend to, and Koga had apparently gone to speak to Maylene, since he was mentoring her.

I could have teased Lorelei when I saw that Lucian was joining us, but I kept silent for politeness’ sake. I had the tact to know that she wouldn’t appreciate any such teasing right now. Besides, I was more focused on the battle between Steven and Drake anyways – which ended up as Steven’s victory after an excellent Baton Pass to his Metagross.

And with his latest victory, this meant that Steven was one step away from becoming the newest Champion of Hoenn. It also meant that the Hoenn Elite Four were now on their way to Sinnoh so that they could attend and prepare for the Tournament.

Drake had sent me a message confirming the same. When I asked if he was satisfied with his defeat, he told me that he was initially a little disappointed – since Steven had outmanoeuvred him – but he wasn’t too bitter about it.

“I’ve always known that the rich fuck was smarter than me.” He told me, “So I’m not ashamed to have been outplayed like this. I just wished we could have had a straight-up fight – a brawl with everything on the line.”

“Maybe you’ll be able to have one next time.” I said comfortingly, “After all, Bruno’s going to be challenging the Elite Four next, isn’t he? I doubt he’d be one for tricks. You’ll probably be able to get the fight that you want.”

“Hmph. Maybe.” He replied thoughtfully, and I knew that my words had reached him.

Either way, the Elite Four of Hoenn were not the only people coming over to Sinnoh, as our new visitors from Unova were also arriving today.

With everyone about to arrive, the Sinnoh League made an announcement that the partners for the Tournament would be announced on the evening following the arrival of the Hoenn Elite Four.

For now, I wished to make a good impression with the arrivals from Unova, so I wanted to be there for their arrival. With that in mind, I roped in the other members of the Indigo Elite Four, and we all ended up being there at Canalave to greet the new arrivals.

We weren’t the only ones there, of course, as the Sinnoh Elite Four had also come as part of the welcoming committee. And after a short moment, the ship from Unova successfully docked into the port and deposited its occupants.

The Unova Elite Four made their way off the ship first, followed by the Unova Gym Leaders in reverse Gym order. The former stepped up first and exchanged the necessary formalities, making sure to greet us all politely with a brief handshake. After that, they were escorted away by Flint and Aaron as they brought them to some meeting, which left the Gym Leaders free to approach us.

And of course, the smallest of them ran up to us first.

“Karen! John! It’s so nice to see you again!” The adorable ball of sunshine that was Iris ran up to the two of us, “I can’t believe I’m finally here! You don’t understand how boring the journey was!”

Karen giggled, looking like she was holding back the urge to pat Iris’ head in front of all the cameras, “Was it really that bad? Didn’t you have a lot of people to talk with?”

“Yeah… I guess so. But not having access to the Pokénet sucked!” She complained, “And the ship kept rocking back and forth – I couldn’t sleep!”

She let out a yawn as if to emphasize her point, “Actually, could you bring me to the hotel? I’m really, really tired. Sorry, but maybe we can talk later?”

On cue, Lucian cut in from where he had been politely listening in on the conversation, “Right this way, Gym Leader Iris. And for anyone else looking to get some rest, please follow after me.”

Several other Unova Gym Leaders followed after him and Bertha, while a few others split up to speak with specific people. In the end, Lorelei, Karen, and I ended up walking around with Burgh, Elesa, and Clay.

“Ah, the sight of such a beautiful city brings my heart much joy.” Burgh said as we showed them around. He was looking around while using his fingers to frame what he saw, “These new sights are very different to the designs of Castelia City, but it has its own charms that are aesthetically pleasing in its own way. I can’t wait to see more of what Sinnoh has in store for us.”

But Clay was focused on something different.

“Is this the largest commercial city in Sinnoh?” He asked.

“No, that would probably be Veilstone or Jubilife.” I replied, “Canalave City is just the main port city of Sinnoh.”

“And if I remember correctly, Hearthome would be the entertainment centre of Sinnoh, right?” Elesa asked, “Sort of like your version of Nimbasa?”

“Yep.” I nodded, “It’s quite the beautiful place. Amity Square especially is a very popular attraction.”

“Then as the Gym Leader in charge of the entertainment centre of Unova, it’s only fitting that I should pay that a visit.” Elesa remarked.

“We could head there right now if that’s what you want to do.” Lorelei offered, “Honestly, there’s not much to see in Canalave City. Unless you want to check out the Gym or library?”

“I don’t think any of us here are particularly fond of those dusty old tombs.” Clay said, “But it’s fine. I’m more interested in speaking with you all than the scenery. We could just walk around.”

“Yeah, I’ll head to Hearthome in my own time.” Elesa agreed, “I’m pretty tired too, so maybe we can just stay around here for the time being.”

That was perfectly fine with us.

Burgh chuckled, “I don’t think I’ve visited a library in years. Why do you think I chose to go into the arts? It’s because I certainly don’t have the smarts to become an academic.”

Karen let out a snort, “Too right. Unless you’re an overachiever like this guy is,” She poked me with her elbow, “then feel free to leave me out of all this science-y stuff too.”

“Ah, that’s right. I read about your involvement in a couple of recent discoveries, John.” Elesa mentioned, “You were involved in the discovery of the Fairy type, I remember. Are you also a scientist yourself? A few, admittedly less reputable, news articles stated that you were.”

“Oh, no. I’m definitely no scientist.” I quickly clarified, “Just like Karen said, I’m not good with anything to do with academics either. I’m more of a hands-on kind of guy. The reason I was credited with the discovery of the Fairy type was because I was the one that pointed out and provided the initial observations about the inconsistencies in certain Pokémon. The nitty gritty work was done by actual scientists and Professors. The same went for other projects that I’m credited with; I normally helped out in other, non-scientific ways, like helping to form connections.”

“Connections are important.” Clay agreed.

“I see… thank you for not trying to brag. I’ve dealt with enough braggarts for one lifetime.” Elesa muttered, “Though, speaking of the Fairy type, are there any prominent trainers that specialise in it? A lot of people are interested about this new Type back in Unova. I did try to look up for any prominent Fairy trainers, but couldn’t find any.”

“Unfortunately, I’m not aware of any Fairy specialists either.” Lorelei responded, “It’s a shame, but the lack of Fairy specialists is probably due to the fact that the Type is still too new. There hasn’t been enough time for someone to train up a full team of Fairy types to a high level yet.”

I knew of one aspiring Fairy specialist, but she definitely wasn’t at the level to be considered ‘noteworthy’ yet. Hopefully in due time Daisy would get the recognition I knew that she deserved.

“Is it really that strong though? The Fairy type?” Burgh asked, “When I first heard of its immunity to Dragon moves, I thought it was going to be the strongest type ever. But is that really the case? My instincts tell me that it’s probably too good to be true.”

“Oh they absolutely are the counter to Dragons.” Karen exclaimed, “A group of Dragon specialists tried to make a big fuss when the Fairy type was first introduced, claiming that there was no way that a new Type would be able to resist against their Dragon moves. Needless to say, they were utterly wrong – and were thoroughly embarrassed.”

“It’s not just Dragons too. The Fairy type is also very good at dealing with Fighting types, which I assume that Fighting types are as popular in Unova as they are here.” I added, “So I can say from first-hand experience that the Fairy type is extremely useful typing for your Pokémon to have, even in high-level battles.”

That led them to ask a few more questions about the Fairy type, which I expected. Coming into the Tournament, they would obviously want to know as much as possible about this new Type as they could. Most of the questions were also directed to me, since amongst my colleagues I was the only one that actually fielded Fairy type Pokémon, so I did my best to answer as best as I could.

We even moved to the outskirts of Canalave so that I could give them a physical demonstration of the power of my Fairy types – though obviously I didn’t show them everything. Just the basics.

Eventually, as it was starting to get late and the Unovans were already pretty tired from their long journey over here, they asked to retire for the day so that they could rest up.

However, even as my other two companions went to escort the Unovans to their hotel, Clay remained behind. He wanted to ask me a question.

“Sorry to keep you, but I’ve a few questions about your Gym Leaders I was hoping you could answer for me.” He said, and continued as I nodded, “After speaking to you in person a few times now, I reckon I’ve got your measure. You don’t seem to be one of those slimy politicians that lie with their fake smiles, so my instincts tell me that I can trust you. Besides, Iris frequently mentions how much she likes talking with you and Karen – and even as young as she is, I trust her judgment.”

“I appreciate the compliment.” I remarked, though inwardly I couldn’t deny being pleased about that comment about Iris. I was glad that she saw Karen and I as her friends.

He waved me off, “No sweat. Your integrity is clearly something you earned. So tell me, are us Unovans about to get fucked over in this tournament? Is this some kind of inter-regional power play that we’re about to walk into?”

“Absolutely not.” I replied firmly, a serious frown forming on my face, “We would never do that to you. If you lose, you lose because of your own actions. We would never do anything to deliberately place you Unovans at a disadvantage. I give you my solemn promise on that. The whole point of this tournament is to help foster friendly relations between us, not to sabotage your region’s reputation. Neither myself, nor Champion Cynthia, would ever want the latter as an outcome.”

He stared at me searchingly, as if he was trying to deduce the truth behind my statement. Eventually, he must have found what he was looking for because he gave me an approving nod.

“Good. You have my apologies if my suspicions were rude – but a man has to make sure he ain’t about to walk into a trap. You get me?” He said.

“I understand.” I nodded, “It was a valid concern. Perhaps I would have asked the same questions in your place.”

“Glad there’re no hard feelings.” He smiled, before glancing at his watch, “Right. I’m going to head off to the hotel to get some rest. They’re announcing the partners soon right? Maybe we’ll be paired up together.”

“We shall see tomorrow.” I agreed, and truthfully I wouldn’t mind having Clay as a partner. Not just for his strength, but also because getting to know someone like him better would be nice too.

But like I said, we shall see tomorrow.

=============

The next day, with most of the known world eagerly awaiting for the partners to be announced, Karen and I decided to meet up so that we could hang out as we waited – since we both had nothing better to do anyways.

“Felt like we’ve been in this exact situation before.” Karen said to me as she sipped her drink from where she was sitting opposite me. We were having lunch together in one of the outdoor restaurants in Hearthome City, “The two of us hanging out together while we wait for the partners to be announced for a tournament.”

“You mean while I waited.” I pointed out, trying my hardest to stifle a chuckle at the fact that Karen’s drink was something that I knew was currently ‘hip with the kids’. I suspected she only ordered it so that she could better relate to what Brock and his siblings liked. Honestly, that pink and green abomination that she was drinking looked disgusting, but her effort was commendable, at least.

“Last time you were just a spectator rather than a participant.” I said instead, “So this is going to be your first ever international tournament; you excited?”

“’Course I am.” She replied instantly, “I’m a little uncertain on the partnership aspect, though. I spar a lot with you and Agatha, but I don’t do a lot of 2v2 fights very often outside of one-off fights. I hope fighting with a partner doesn’t mess up my usual strategies.”

“Well you just have to make sure that your partner understands what to do and how you fight.” I replied, “I wouldn’t worry too much about that. I’ve trained a lot with you, so I know you’re the kind of person that’s able to get along well with a partner. Training with one and incorporating their own strategies with yours isn’t going to be a problem for you, I guarantee it. Besides, you have plenty of time to adapt anyways. The Tournament isn’t starting anytime soon – you still have a full week.”

“I appreciate the vote of confidence.” She smiled, “I just hope I don’t get paired with a stubborn ass like Pryce.”

I winced, “…If that happens, then all I can really say is that I wish you the best of luck. Mind you, I wouldn’t want to be paired up with someone like Pryce either. Arceus knows he’s strong, but having to put up with his personality just isn’t worth it.”

“I have no idea how Lorelei tolerates him. Even if he’s her uncle.” Karen muttered, “Oh speaking of partners – have you spoken with Roxanne yet?”

“Uh, no. I haven’t.” I said sheepishly, “I’ve already messaged her and asked if she wanted to meet, so hopefully we’ll be able to find time for that soon. Just a bit unlucky that our schedules didn’t match.”

Karen snorted, “You mean you were too occupied spending time with your girlfriend. Heard you were choosing a future home together. Route 221, huh? I looked it up – I see why you two like it so much. Very empty and spacious.”

“Thank you.” I nodded, “It really is the perfect location.”

“I guess that’s another box ticked off for your preparations to move to Sinnoh then.” She pointed out, “Now that you’ve found your dream home with Cynthia, do you think you’ll be moving out of Indigo soon?”

“…I can’t answer that, because I don’t know either.” I said, “I probably won’t be moving out until everything is ready on the Sinnoh side of things. Sorry, I can’t really give you a better answer than that.”

She waved me off, “Don’t worry about it. I’m not upset about your departure or anything, even though I know most of Indigo would definitely be when they eventually hear about it. I’ve always known that your future was by her side. Just make sure you give me a heads up when you do figure things out.”

I nodded, “Of course. That’s the least I could do. Besides, Lance definitely won’t let me leave without a whole ceremony being planned—"

I was interrupted by the sound of pings coming out from our phones. Which could only mean one thing.

The list of partners had been announced.

The two of us swiftly rushed to the official webpage where the full list of partners had been published, and after one quick scroll later, I found out who my partner for the Pokémon World Tournament was going to be. And I found myself smiling – this was definitely one of the trainers I was hoping to be paired with.

It was Elesa.

That was definitely going to be interesting. Among the Unova Gym Leaders, while I was most familiar and friendly with Iris, I felt like I had spoken enough with Elesa that I felt like I had her measure.

She wasn’t the most powerful of Gym Leaders, but was competent enough to hold the position throughout both Gen 5 games while also managing her own fashion line and career as a supermodel. Personality wise, all I really knew is that she treated me positively and respectfully, but was more than enough for now.

As for the synergy between our respective Types of Normal and Electric – admittedly, it wasn’t all that great. There were no disadvantages that I could think of, but neither were there any benefits, such as with Water and Electric or Ground and Steel. Normal and Electric were merely neutral with each other.

Which probably explained why we were paired with each other. After last time’s performance from Candice and Pryce’s duo Ice types, I figured that the Sinnoh League would be extra careful to take into account for beneficial type synergies when creating the partnerships.

I was promptly interrupted from my thoughts as Karen suddenly shot up from her seat.

“YES!” Karen cheered loudly, “I got Iris!”

My eyes bulged, “What?! Are you serious? They paired you with Iris?”

She frowned at me, “Are you implying something? Do you think I’m too good to be paired with Iris?”

“…Well, yes, that’s exactly what I’m saying.” I replied, “You’re an Elite Four member. She’s the 8th Gym Leader of Unova. If they’re trying to make ‘balanced’ teams, shouldn’t they pair you with someone weaker?”

Karen shrugged, “No clue. I’m not the one making these teams. Shouldn’t you go ask your girlfriend if you want to know more?”

She then tilted her head thoughtfully, “Although… could it be because they think that Iris isn’t as strong because she only has the three Pokémon? She might be the 8th Gym Leader of Unova, but no offense to her, she isn’t the strongest Gym Leader of Unova. Not from what I’ve seen. She definitely will become the strongest, but she isn’t right now.”

“…That’s true. That title probably goes to Clay.” I muttered, though there was one other factor I considered. Perhaps whoever organised the partnerships, which I believed wasn’t actually Cynthia’s doing, prioritised trying to boost our relations with Unova instead of obsessing over making ‘balanced’ teams (which, admittedly, would have been an impossible task anyways).

Therefore, since Karen had the most rapport with Iris, they had paired them together.

But I didn’t voice these thoughts to Karen. Instead, I just said, “Okay. I see it. If we think of it like that, then your pairing with her makes sense.”

“Either way, I’m not complaining.” She said, sitting back down, “Wait, who did you get?”

“Elesa.” I answered.

“Oh, the Electric specialist.” She nodded, “I don’t know much about her strength, but at least she seems easy to work with. She was pretty friendly with us yesterday.”

“Yeah, I agree. I look forward to working with her.” I remarked, “Anyways, what were the other pairings…”

I went over the list in more detail, going through all the partners for the Unovans. Accordingly, the full list of 28 partners that were participating in the Pokémon World Tournament were as follows:

1)      Karen and Iris

2)      Will and Brycen

3)      Candice and Skyla

4)      Wattson and Clay

5)      John and Elesa

6)      Drake and Burgh

7)      Lucian and Lenora

8)      Phoebe and Cilan/Chili/Cress

9)      Crasher Wake and Marshal

10)   Jasmine and Grimsley

11)   Brawly and Drayden

12)   Fantina and Shauntal

13)   Brock and Bertha

14)   Waterflower sisters and Volkner

15)   Surge and Norman

16)   Erika and Winona

17)   Janine and Flint

18)   Samson and Roxanne

19)   Dorothy and Aaron

20)   Giovanni and Juan

21)   Sidney and Robin (Falkner’s father)

22)   Flannery and Koga

23)   Tate/Lisa and Lorelei

24)   Roark and Pryce

25)   Gardenia and Morty

26)   Maylene and Clair

27)   Byron and Chuck

28)   Bugsy and Glacia (Bugsy had recently ascended to become a Gym Leader)

Reading through the full list, I felt that the selections were pretty fair. The Unovans had been equally distributed amongst all three regions so that they could all get a chance to communicate and spend time with people from different regions. Other than that, there were a few partnerships that especially caught my attention.

Volkner and the Waterflower sisters were very interesting, and as someone who had a vested interest in seeing the Gym Leaders of Cerulean grow stronger, I felt that Volkner would serve as an excellent mentor and partner for the sisters, much like their partnership with Drake was. I foresaw that they would have incredible synergy under the Rain, and I looked forward to seeing what they could show off in the fights to come.

Then there were Flint and Janine, and Koga and Flannery. I thought that these pairings were deliberately done to mirror each other. Both pairs consisted of a Fire and Poison specialist, with one individual in the partnership being far more experienced than the other. Both Flint and Koga would likely take up mentor roles, and I felt that the Sinnoh League wanted to drum up some excitement to see which pair would come out on top between them.

I relayed those thoughts out loud to Karen, before asking her what pairs she felt were the most unique. Unsurprisingly, her interest laid with Brock and Bertha, who both had incredible synergy together as Rock and Ground specialists. And with Bertha’s guiding hand, Karen felt confident that Brock would be able to make it far in this Tournament. She also knew about Bertha’s kind-hearted and patient personality, so she felt relieved knowing that the two would get along well.

There were definitely more to comment on about the pairings, but before I could continue rambling out my thoughts with Karen, I received a phone call from an unknown number. But considering the timing, I already guessed who it was going to be.

It was time to get to know Elesa a bit better. We had a tournament to win.

A.N. Surprise surprise, John’s partner isn’t Iris, but instead Elesa. There were a few reasons for this, but mainly because a team with John and Iris would be wholly unfair for the rest of the competition. Iris may be inexperienced, but her team is incredibly talented, and her Dragons are strong (if few). John and Iris would practically be like pairing John and Clair, which personalities aside, would be too strong.

But Elesa? Elesa is far from the strongest Gym Leader in Unova (though not weak). And I wanted to write something different to John and Roxanne’s dynamic from the last Tournament. Last time, John tried to play more of a supporting role to let Roxanne shine. This time it’s going to be the opposite.

Of course, despite the full list of partners being revealed, I won’t have time to focus on every single person. Some people will get the spotlight over others. Though do let me know if you are particularly interested in certain pairings. I’ll try my best to accommodate. Hope you enjoyed!