Pokemon: Randomizer!

Gym Challenge Battle vs Roxanne! Part -1

"Finally, it's here..." Ash murmured, his voice carrying a mix of anticipation and determination as he stood before Rustboro Gym's towering, rocky entrance. It had been three intense weeks since he first arrived in Rustboro City. From that moment, every day had been dedicated to relentless training as he had pushed himself and his team of Pokémon to their limits, refining the strategy he would use in this upcoming gym battle.

Originally, he'd planned a two-week training period. But by the end of the second week, it became clear that some of his Pokémon weren't ready for his planned strategy. So he extended his stay by another week, while also requesting a few crucial favors from his old friends, Misty and Gary, to fast-track his preparations. At the end of the third week, he finally felt his team was as ready as they could be so he booked his gym challenge slot for three days later and spent the time regrouping with his companions, May and his younger sister, Ashly, and learned that while he was away, the girls had their own adventures.

May excitedly recounted her encounters with two Pokémon coordinators, Janet and Chaz, who had inspired her to consider a new path. She attended a local Pokémon Contest where they competed, and by the end, May was sure: she wanted to try her hand at contests instead of going for the gym challenges.

Ashly, on the other hand, had an encounter with Rustboro Gym Leader Roxanne herself. Apparently, while exploring the city, Ashly had come across some young kids, one of whom was bullying a shy one. Ashly intervened, saving the shy kid and setting the bully straight. Roxanne, who had witnessed this, was impressed by Ashly and invited her to attend the school, which Ashly did for the rest of her time there.

Now, after three days of rest and catching up with his companions, Ash stood before Rustboro Gym's doors, invigorated and ready. Surprisingly enough, a large group of onlookers had gathered around the gym, standing in front of screens waiting for Ash to begin his challenge.

Inside, Ash was guided through the building straight to the stadium, where rows of spectators filled the stands, adding an air of anticipation to the space. Scanning the audience, he quickly spotted May and Ashly seated in a special box reserved for guests of the gym leader or challenger. A wide grin spread across his face as he saw Ashly cheering him on enthusiastically, sitting amongst Roxanne's students. Seated along with Ashly was Diancie, whom Ash had entrusted with his sister to show the diamond Pokémon what an official Pokémon battle looked like.

"Wow, that's a lot of people..." Ash muttered, taking in the scene.

"Well, that's to be expected," the gym attendant replied with a friendly smile. "We don't often see trainers attempt the advanced challenge, which means it's a rare opportunity for the crowd to witness Ms. Roxanne at her best. They're all hoping you're the type of challenger who can really push her to use her strongest Pokémon."

Ash chuckled, rubbing the back of his head. "No pressure at all, right?" he replied with a grin. The man nodded and left, wishing him good luck.

Moments later, the stadium erupted in cheers as Roxanne entered, exuding calm confidence. Her expression, however, softened into a smile as she greeted him. "Challenger Ash, it's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"Nice to meet you too, Gym Leader Roxanne," Ash replied warmly. "By the way, I heard you looked after my sister these past few days. Thanks for that."

"It was my pleasure; she's a wonderful student and quite the spirited young trainer," Roxanne replied. "But now that introductions are done, let's get to the reason we're here."

The referee stepped forward and raised a hand, calling for silence as he announced, "The match between Gym Leader Roxanne and Challenger Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town will now begin! This is an Advanced Challenge match: each trainer may use five Pokémon, with substitutions permitted only for the challenger." Assistants approached both Ash and Roxanne, handing each of them specialized goggles as the referee continued, "In accordance with Advanced Challenge rules, this match will take place under a permanent Sandstorm condition."