EVERYONE: A bunch of prompts based around types and type of stuff, feat. Nori/Prema metaseries

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@Regitnui posted a prompt list for October on Discord. Whether or not they made it, it's theirs because I said it is. I figured this would be a fun worldbuilding exercise. I have no idea what New is and I've heavily modified if not thrown out a lot of the generational gimmicks. But here we go anyway.

You can expect sarcasm and silliness here? Maybe stuff that disagrees with your worldbuilding, up to and including capitalizing Pokemon. I dunno, you know how serious folks can be about those kinds of differences in writing ideologies. Really though, nothing serious here!

List as posted:

 

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In a nutshell: Normal
This was at one point thought of as a "default" type Pokemon share or otherwise a lack of a type. The existence of typelessness has since been proven latter theory untrue - however, there is evidence that points towards the former. Scientists since then can't agree on what exactly Normal is. A type is infused with some sort of energy, contained in the essence of Pokemon and their moves. Some of these emulate elements in nature. Pokemon haven't been able to explain anything themselves, simply saying that it is.

What complicates things is why Normals can have other types. In particularly, many birds are Normal in addition to Flying. The running theory is that it's something in itself uniquely in Pokemon.

Who's who of type experts: Basil Barnett
He was one of Sinnoh's Elite Four for over 15 years. As his name and presence here suggests, he specializes in Normal-types. They may seem basic, but in truth they brim with potential. Basil himself appears fairly unassuming, naked. Average height, average weight, and black hair with brown eyes. He's otherwise anything but ordinary. Some call him a trend-chaser in terms of his sense of fashion and he has a quiet yet bombastic personality.

Notable Pokemon of Basil include his ace Snorlax, his Wyrdeer, and his Bibarel (noted absolute menace to challengers). Like many Sinnoh type experts, he has a couple surprises on his team that don't line up. He has two Clefable in particular, one Normal and one Fairy. He carefully grooms them to look identical, and has been known to switch and use them in the same battle.

Basil leaving his position to pursue other ambitions was the catalyst for some of the stuff that happened in Official In-Training, despite him only getting namedropped a couple times.

Pokemon commentary: Normal Clefable?
This is a regional variant of its line (and out-of-universe a way to explain Whitney's and retconning). Clefairys that lose their connection to the moon lose their Fairy type. Summarily, they become the Normal-types we all know and love. They become paler in skin tone and lose inherent access to moves like Moonblast, but otherwise maintain a lot of their capabilities.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Tono Takuma's Girafarig "Gracie"
Tono is one of the Gym Trainers of Sunyshore, and Gracie is his second-best Pokemon (after his theme-typed Jolteon). Retroactively because of Faragiraf being introduced, he probably uses Eviolite on the thing, but it will certainly have evolved it by the time he appears again. Reminder of the pains of adapting a running series to fic.

 

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In a nutshell: Rock
Minerals, stone, whatever you can think of. Pokemon that are made up of hard materials such as these are Rock-types. They have the ability to gather dust particles to defend themselves with, a trait shared with ice particles and the Ice-type.

Rock-type attacks are unusual among Pokemon for being able to produce physical material. They're stronger when actual rock is around to work with. Physical rocks produced from Rock-type energy tend to be unstable and turn to dust within a day at most.

Who's who of type experts: 1st Gym Leaders
Rock is often thought of derogatorily in certain circles as the defensive type that can't be defensive. It infamously has plenty of unfortunate weaknesses and their physical attacks tend to be inaccurate. At worst, Leagues think of them as tutorials for new trainers in "intended" order due to their resistance towards Normal-type moves. As of the end of Official In-Training, Roark has taken up the position of "first" Gym Leader of Sinnoh, but that's not to say he's weak. All Gym Leaders have to be competent at fighting trainers of any reasonable skill level.

Roark can be described as one striving to follow in his father's footsteps. His training paid off, as it was enough for the League to accept Byron's recommendation of him. He's just been mentioned so far. Same for Brock, who showed up in a gag news article where I turned his anime self around with him experiencing the same thing, much to his distaste. That's the extent of it. Others will show later, but for now, there hasn't been much representation. Given a later journeyfic will be set in Hoenn though, Roxanne will show up then.

Pokemon commentary: Fossils
So what's up with Fossils and the Rock-type? In short, imperfect regeneration technology. Fossils are a type of mineral after all, and these end up fusing into the revived Pokemon to give them a secondary type. Some of them like Aerodactyl already were Rock-type already mind you, but these have effectively resulted in new variants being created. Among these is Anklyophone, which is used by someone in Official In Training and is based off one of the leaked spritesheet mons - Dragon/Rock when restored, Dragon/Steel otherwise. Research into how to perfect the process this is still underway, but at least one attempt resulted in atrocity...

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Haruto Kannagi's Tyrantrum
There's a number of Rock-types running around, including Ollie Gooch's A-Graveler or the Rhydon that attacks Nori and the Demon in Training a Demon. None have really taken much of a spotlight yet however. But this one will eventually. He was mentioned to have used it to rescue Prema from a wild Volcarona (which he then captured and gifted to her). It's Kannagi tradition for the shrine's master or future one to have at least one exotic Pokemon, and this is his. It will feature prominently in a future fic.

 

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In a nutshell: Water
What's there to say? Many but not all aquatic Pokemon are of the type of the most common element on the planet, and some non-aquatic Pokemon as well. Oddly unlike normal animals, they don't seem to care about the differences between salt or freshwater.

Water types are very sensitive to changes in the environment, moreso than any other type. One of the ways this manifests is their ability to use Scald or Ice-type moves. Pokemon very used to one water temperature might not be able to use one or the other, at least not effectively. Particularly crafty trainers might be able to deal effective damage with moves like Sludge on certain Pokemon; this is also how Freeze Dry works.

Who's who of type experts: Crasher Wake
Wake was born in Mexico but had a second home in Japan as part of a talent exchange between promotions. His name is not on public record, like many masked luchadors. He was once a renowned luchador who suffered a massive ACL injury during a match. Not the type to sit on his laurels, he decided to take up Pokemon training as something to do in the meantime and as a way to bond with his kids. His tear was far worse than expected. It gave him time to hone his skills, usually around places like Mynwest Court. He never was a trainer when he was a kid, but he proved it's never too late to start being one.

His type preference came natural to him, he loves water. His Spanish ring name, Mananti el Destructor, incorporated it as much as his attire. Pokemon training was supposed to be a fun venture, so he decided to try winning with his favorite type. It naturally attracted the attention of the Leagues. The only reason he didn't accept in his home region was because their League had a Water-type Elite Four member, so he went to his second home in Sinnoh instead. He still wrestles on a part-time basis, but most of his efforts go to the community of Pastoria, training his Pokemon (he stays in shape by swimming with them), and spending time with his family.

Pokemon commentary: Shellos and Gastrodon
These are two of the more enigmatic Pokemon due to their two distinct forms. it has all the makings of a regional variant and yet the two are completely identical. There have been many theories on what causes this change, such as diet or environment. The latter has been debunked by breeders; Shellos take on the form of their mother regardless of location. Because of their presence in Sinnoh and the divide between Mt. Coronet dividing the two subspecies, they are prominent in certain religions. The Kannagis in particular use them as an example of how ones can be the same despite the differences between them.

Scientifically, some postulate that these used to be regional variants of one another until they somehow converged. What muddies the water is the finding of Shellos remains in Hoenn that had traits from both subspecies of the former and a completely different shelled Gastrodon which old records say was a Water/Rock type. The former led to theories that it was a divergence from this one form instead.

These Pokemon require a certain degree of care to raise due to their dependency on water. They're popular for their cuteness, friendliness, and ease of Surfing on them. Any would-be trainer learns how to raise a Pokemon to take rather than avoid hits. They secrete a nontoxic but sticky fluid that helps them move. With help from human-made TMs or selective breeding, they can learn to weaponize this into Sludge attacks.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Priestess Satomi Kurusu's Blastoise "Otohime"
With a type so prominent it's only natural that there are a lot of prominent Pokemon of the type. Many of the trainers in the fic have used one, but one of the (set to be) recurring standouts is this. Satomi is in her early 90s and her starter was a Squirtle. Many of her Pokemon have passed on or been given away to nieces or nephews, but Otohime is still with her and able to battle very well when necessary; her Hydro Cannon was shown to be strong enough to bring down a well-trained Pokemon from good health. Satomi nicknamed it for the Otohime from Urashima Tarō. She saw the 1931 version when she was young which inspired the nickname.

 

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In a nutshell: Electric
Electric moves are used by storing or gathering power and releasing it. Electric-types specialize in this and all generate it naturally; how other Pokemon do so to use moves varies. Static, magnetism, and manifesting psychic power are some of the more common means. Their unusual nerve impulses render them immune to conventional (by Pokemon standards) paralysis.

Who's who of type experts: Volkner Denzi and Gym Trainers
Sunyshore Gym is the main setting of Official In-Training. Nori is sent there to learn how to raise Pokemon from an expert, which is later revealed to be part of a test for Volkner's potential promotion to Elite Four. Volkner is a blunt and serious man in his late 20s who is apathetic to things he doesn't care about - socialization and romance two of the more notable. Besides Pokemon battling, he has an interest in automobiles and electronics; the back of the Gym is his personal workshop. He tends to wear outfits with orange and white, in-part due to his starter, which is now a Raichu.

Volkner keeps to himself most of the time. Despite his aloof behavior, he is considered by many to be the strongest Gym Leader in the region. He has a one-sided rivalry with Snowpoint Leader Flint Donaldson dating back to when the Batalson Island native moved to Sunyshore, though he begrudgingly considers him one of his few friends as much as he annoys him. They journeyed independently in 1998 and met in the finals of the League. Volkner won and went on to nearly become Champion. Both's subsequent successes in Sinnoh and other regions impressed League Officials, and they were offered Gyms in adulthood. Volkner accepted only because Flint did. He chose the Electric-type for his starter and having only one weakness.

Being a Gym Leader also comes with having Gym Trainers, fellow type enthusiasts. These and the puzzles are tests to see if a challenger is worth a Leader's time, although not all make use of them. Volkner had four during Official In-Training, all middle/high-school aged males who form a close-knit (if sometimes vitriolic) group of friends.

Pokemon commentary: Kotora and Raitora
The Nori/Prema metaseries makes occasional use of beta or unused Pokemon. Raitora is the ace of Kallisto Keravnos, one of Volkner's Gym Trainers. It's a perfect example of how a popular trainer can make a Pokemon popular. Regions outside of the big four Japanese ones owe at least some of their tourism to trainers coming to places where this and its pre-evolution Kotora are more common.

These rotund tiger-like Pokemon are not as agile as most Electric-types, but they're some of the hardiest. They live in savannas and sometimes on mountains. They're omnivorous creatures who live solo or in small prides. They're generally not hostile to humans and other Pokemon and typically warn potential threats off with a Noble Roar at first or even drive them away with Confuse Ray. When it comes to combat, they have a natural affinity fighting physical, particularly with their fangs and throwing their body around. The species' signature move is Swift Bolt, which is an Electric-typed Extreme Speed.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Nori Carino's Pachirisu "Pachi"
One of the main Pokemon of the fic! He was a Gym Pokemon of Sunyshore - basically extra security and adding to image - who took a shine to Nori. Volkner gave him to Nori as part of his training to learn how to raise Pokemon from the (relative) start. Pachi likes being out of his ball, and Nori despite some initial reservations about looking like a stereotype, makes sure to let him whenever possible. Pachi is outgoing, nice, and even innocent - but the worst of humanity (and Pokemon) can get him mad, especially when they threaten his friends. He has a solid understanding of English due to spending enough time around humans speaking it (i.e. he hears words and understands them rather than just understanding intent), though like most Pokemon, can't speak it. He conversely has a bit of trouble with untranslatable words in Pokemon languages.

Growing up around so many humans and their partners who are serious about battling had Pachi take up an interest as well. It's not what he lives for, but he's always eager to volunteer against people who have it out for Nori. He may not be Nori's strongest Pokemon, but he's still tough and unquestionably the sanest. This leads (and will lead) to a lot of friction with the Pokemon Rehabilitator's more twisted Pokemon, but he likes the Demon Nidorina.

 

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In a nutshell: Grass
They were once known as the Plant-type before studies showed that ones like Chikorita and Deerling are closer to animals than plants. Still, even those closer to the latter have internal organs and aura - an indicator of a Pokemon's life. The signature line of moves across all Grass-types is powder and spores, which Lepidopteran Bug-types also use. Most are extremely resistant to their effects as a result.

It was chosen as one of the three typical "official" starter types for most Leagues due to the ease of understanding the Grass/Water/Fire relationship. Critics have pointed out the imbalance in type effectiveness particularly affecting Grass, but can name no better alternative. Some try mind you, but Dark/Psychic/Fighting was always inequitable within itself.

Who's who of type experts: Erika
Erika is a florist who raises Grass Pokemon to aid in her work. If it's about flowers, she probably does and teaches it: flower arrangements, flower language, fortunes, etc. She is an example of a Gym Leader who was not offered a position due to strength in the Leagues but by being noticed for type specialization. She had to pass a battling test, which she did with flying colors. Behind her airheadedness and even sleepyheadedness lies a confident and prideful individual. Famous for her traditional Japanese style. In spite of this, she does not belong to any one faith.

Her Gym has been the subject of controversies surrounding discrimination against challengers. The Japanese laws are very strict on reasons for refusing someone a Gym Battle, and gender and disliking a perfume shop sponsoring it are absolutely not valid. It was only because these incidents were perpetuated by her staff and Gym Trainers that it remains open.

Pokemon commentary: Exeggcute
These are some of the more unusual Pokemon in the world. Closer to seeds than eggs, they gather in groups of five to eight. They become fearful with less and cannot handle the strain with more; six is the optimal number. The telepathic connection between bonded Exeggcutes are so great they become of one mind and body. Even the earliest Poke Ball analogues treated them as one and captured them together. Those who cannot form large enough groups (or are captured) form very close attachments with other Pokemon or their trainer.

They have several evolutions. Exeggutor is the most common. The bodies merge during the process of turning into a palm-tree like figure. This causes side-effects, particularly with odd numbers. Heads rendered mentally unstable or those who don't merge may drop and become an Exeggcute once more. In tropical regions with sufficient sunlight like Alola, they grow huge. This weakens their Psychic powers, but they become draconic for some reason - there is no evidence of ancient Dragon-type Exeggcute or in their genes, so this is simply one of the many things that conventional science can't explain about Pokemon. Rarely, a lone Exeggcute can evolve into something else entirely...

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Prema Kannagi's Dartrix "Yahata"
Much like Nori had a Pokemon before getting a formal starter, so did Prema. Named for an ancient Japanese God associated with archery, Yahata is stoic and serious. He sees himself as a protector for the future head priestess of the Kannagi Shrine and is never one to miss training; there was once a time where he was too into it, only changing when Prema made clear he's her friend first. Still, like the shrine's teaching say, training Pokemon is just one of the many ways humans can bond with them. He approaches battles with cool precision. Unlike most of his species, he keeps his eyes wide open for alertness and dignity reasons. He seems to be perpetually glaring because of it...

 

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In a nutshell: Poison
While there are plenty of Pokemon that can use or secrete Poison like Quagsire, the Poison-type have it as a significant part of their biology. A number of these Pokemon owe their proliferation or even existence to humanity.

Their most infamous move is Toxic, which was made widespread by the Koga clan. They were able to teach almost any Pokemon to use the move with ninjutsu. The Gym Leader of the same name (real name Kyou) formerly gave TMs that did this out to certain challengers, but stopped creating them around a year after his promotion to Kanto Elite Four member. Subsequent mass-produced Toxic TMs are more limited in what can learn the move. When a Poison-type uses it, they are able to active inert toxins in a victim's body, making it highly accurate.

Who's who of type experts: Gasha Qian
The current Gym Leader of Veilstone City, known as the Toxic Gambling Lady. Also a Grandmaster Coordinator and the owner of the Game Corner. She hails from an undisclosed region in China. Out-of-universe, her name comes from "Gas", "Gacha", and "Qian". All of her Pokemon are in-universe named after various betting methods: Labouchere the Dustox, Paroli the Tentacruel, and her ace: D'Alembert the Stuntank. While she has no Gym Trainers, her Gym's puzzle is a miniature contest stage with employees who act as judges. She is a frequent host as Veilstone's own Contest Hall and sometimes gives advice or training to those who need it.

Gasha is a showwoman who loves the spotlight. Pokemon Contests came naturally to her. She found Sinnoh to have the best competition during her travels; she developed a friendly rivalry with a Kalosian woman who went by Fantina (who also went on to become a Grandmaster Coordinator and Gym Leader in Sinnoh). Gasha always believed fate was whimsical, so when visiting her friend she heard of a failing arcade in Veilstone, she thought it was written. All she had to do was take the risk in buying it. Gasha had a radical plan to revitalize it: make it appeal to kids and adults and make it stand out. The place got a vibrant and flashy makeover, adding gambling alongside games. One of the things she added was a battlefield where you could challenge her or others in matches where prize money was on the line (the corner taking a modest 10% cut). Her skill and surprise through unorthodox Contest-inspired techniques led to a lot of money raked in, as well as the League's notice. Fantina vouched for her, and the rest is history.

She is a firm believer in giving others chances to shine. A case in point, when a dangerous Pokemon prowling Veilstone (that wasn't her job to deal with) was cornered in a trailer park, and some boy stood up for it, she was intrigued - especially when Lady Prema Kannagi was with him. Then she couldn't help herself when he said he "bet" he could reform the Pokemon. She put measures in place in case he failed/the Pokemon escaped, but he succeeded! It just goes to show what someone can do when all eyes on on them.

Pokemon commentary: The Nidos
While Pokemon with gender differences exist, some of which have significant differences between males and females, there are few like the Nidos where they're different enough to be considered entirely separate species. They are a blend of many animals.

Pokemon society is never as diverse as some think (PMD), but the Nidos are especially isolationist. If they mingle with others, it's because they're either new-age, they respect them, or it's a mutualistic or commensalistic relationship benefiting them. The variety of moves they can train to learn gives them an edge in defending their territory. The most important member of Nido society is o'Fyma, roughly translating to "esteemed mother who gives birth". When females evolve, their bodies reproductive organs become inoperable for reasons some have gone on record as saying "the progenitor's idea of a twisted joke". An o'Fyma is one who is born unusually large, allowing their bodies to handle laying more than one egg. They maintain their size upon evolution; the telltale sign is the size of their horn (or having it at all in Nidorina's case). They are often granted leadership of the colony upon evolution to Nidoqueen. If an o'Fyma isn't born or something happens to her, it bodes ill for the colony...

Spoiler

(Out-of-universe, I think it's dumb and makes no sense, especially from a gameplay perspective where its only source is in obscure secondary material that doesn't bother to explain why this one species becomes infertile. So I tried to make sense of it and ended up with something horrifying.)

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Nori Carino's Nidorina "The Demon"
A once-unknown Pokemon infamous for assaulting Pokemon - trained and wild alike - at seemingly random. Often cloaked in leaves, her identity was unknown. Trainers wanted to catch her, authorities wanted to get rid of her. She was smart, however, injuring and leaving as quickly as she arrived. After a year of this, she was finally found out and pursued by police to a trailer park, where she had a chance meeting. She was a former o'Fyma who loved fighting and hated the idea of being used breeding tool. A lot of stuff happened, culminating with her evolution and being cast out as a race traitor to all Pokemon.

The Demon is fiery and tough, with power trained Pokemon only reach after years, but is something of a misanthrope with strong opinions. It was unlikely she would've listened to anyone even if they caught her; after all, who do these idiots think they are telling her how to fight? The only reason she was fine with Nori is because A) he lets her be her, B) he does contribute to helping her get stronger but doesn't overbear, and C) he would let her fight more opponents and in an official capacity. She thinks meeting an ideal trainer is further proof the gods have twisted ideals. He kept the nickname out of lack of ideas which amused her. While aloof, she accepts Pachi for his strength and other reasons she won't say...

 

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In a nutshell: Fire
One of the most destructive types around. Whenever constructing a building, fireproofing it against Pokemon is a top priority. This goes extra for anywhere battling happens. It was a problem way back when and a problem with battling as sport, before massive strides were made in construction during the industrial revolution. Pokemon themselves are able to control their flames so they don't catch things alight, but there's no accounting for accidents or malicious behavior.

Fire types are the best at using flame. They can even shield themselves against burns. For Pokemon that have flame burning on them or are made of them, their intensity is an indicator of their life force. Charmander is the most famous example of this.

Who's who of type experts: Flint Donaldson
Flint grew up on Batalson Island on what's commonly called the Survival Area, along with his mother, father, and little brother Buck. One day on an adventure to Stark Mountain without friends or adults, he was confronted by a group of Koffings. He would've been in trouble if not for an Onix saving him. She followed him and became his first Pokemon at the fresh age of nine. His parents moved to Sunyshore for work a year later, which is when he met a hotshot trainer in school called Volkner Denzi. Volkner was way above everyone else until Flint showed up.

In Sinnoh at least, type experts aren't expected to go full monotype, but Flint is particularly infamous for not even having enough Fire-types to make a full team. He actually originally wanted to be a Ground-type expert in the Survival Area due to Gneiss (his Steelix). The League refused both: they considered Batalson Island an extension of Sinnoh, and they wanted to avoid overlap with Bertha in the Elite Four. He chose Fire in Snowpoint based off a comment by his friend/traveling companion/Gym Trainer Hinata that he warms everything around him, and Volkner calling him hot-blooded. He has an eye for talent and business, running a hot spring on the side.

Pokemon commentary: Pinnipomb
A Fire/Water type, beta Pokemon, and a distant relative of Popplio, entitled the Bomb Seeker Pokemon. Their preferred habits are streams and lakes near volcanoes, but any warm body of water will do. These mischievous Pokemon enjoy balancing round objects on their nose including other Pokemon. A favorite pastime of theirs is annoying Voltorbs and Electrodes and throwing them before they can explode. A Pinnipomb can use a variety of moves including Scald and Pyro Ball. They can have a rare ability that boosts the power of bomb and ball moves, though have limited use of it.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Prema Kannagi's Volcarona "Taiyoko"
A powerful and once-independent Pokemon who used to inhabit a castle in the Unova region. She attacked Prema during her studies and defeated her two Pokemon, only to be defeated and captured by her father. He gifted Taiyoko to her under the condition she claim she caught it. Prema never considered herself worthy, but Taiyoko disagrees due to Prema's heart and inner strength, even calling herself Prema's laryeique - a subterran tongue term meaning one who follows a worthy leader.

Her strength and knowledge comes from close to a century of living. Truth be told, Taiyoko was growing a little bored with her life and wanted to find new meaning. She couldn't ask for a better partner than one of the Kannagis. She is always willing to lend her aid. During Memory of a Ghoul, Prema was even shown to be able to hold actual conversation rather than relying on empathy or understanding intent (like most Pokemon do with humans). However, it's taxing for Prema to do this, so they only do this briefly when she needs Taiyoko's advice. She gets along with Prema's other Pokemon too, acting as a mentor towards them.

 

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In a nutshell: Psychic
This can best be described as mind given form to alter the world around them. Special attacks are blasts of energy, and physical ones concentrate it into an object. Status moves are plentiful in the type. Notably, just about every Pokemon can use Rest - a move that manipulates the brain and body into rapid healing in sleep. They're usually ineffectual offensively on Dark-types, which are too set or strong-minded, but the Miracle Eye ability allows an attacker to sense the minuscule weaknesses within their hearts and hit.

The move of the same name is one of the most notorious among Pokemon. Used to its fullest, it can take total control over an opponent. This does have several weaknesses: one of sufficient will, mind, and/or body can overcome it, and it's very taxing (especially on larger or multiple Pokemon). In addition, it's unsporting and often limited or even outright banned in some official rules. Because of this, trainers most often have their Pokemon use it as a powerful energy blast. Telekinesis is a lesser version.

Who's who of type experts: Lucian
Many Psychic-type trainers have powers of their own, often feeling a connection to the type. Not this guy. Considered in the top percentage of Psychic-type experts in the world, he has only ever seen or read about (he loves reading) ESP. Believes Sabrina's claim everyone has psychic powers is bupkis; given her instability, he may be right when it comes to humans.

Born on Batalson Island in a tourist town called the Resort Area, life was sleepy for young Lucian. He dove into the world of books to escape the doldrums of life. Superheroes, fantasy adventures, detective novels, science fiction, ghost stories, basically anything fantastical was his favorite. However, he also had an interest in the mysteries and amazing aspects of the real world. He left on a journey after completing his education, traveling Sinnoh and the world to explore. Lucian's rise as a trainer came primarily from knowledge. Whenever he had an important match, he studied his opponent and their Pokemon extensively. He knew how to train Pokemon to their fullest as well. His eventual type was sort of coincidence: his starter Eevee evolved into Espeon, he befriended a Slowpoke while in Johto, and the Bronzor which became his ace was one of his first captures.

He placed high in many tournaments, eventually leading to offers of Gym positions. He thought that bringing a Gym to the Resort Area would help boost excitement and tourism, but ran into the same problem as Flint later would. So he infamously jumped ship to a region between Hoenn and Johto, putting egg on the Sinnoh League's face. The positions were ironically reversed five years later when Lucian stepped back from the role to return home, got offered an Elite Four position, and accepted. That they still hadn't changed their ways bothered him, but he thought maybe he could be the hero of Batalson...

His weakness as a trainer, ironically for his planning, is his by-the-bookishness and lack of adaptability - even as a traveling trainer if an opponent did something unexpected, he had trouble keeping up. He realized this during his time as a Gym Leader, but kept it up because he believes every obstacle should have a weakness to exploit. Whether or not his opponents realize it or find another way to overcome it is on them.

Pokemon commentary: Unown
Pokemon shaped like letters from the Latin alphabet. Often found engraved on walls. It has now been confirmed that they came after due to old records and the existence of ones shaped after obsolete characters which are similarly extinct in modern times. Why they exist at all is a bigger mystery, but they seem to have a basic understanding of human language (especially their own letters) and subterran Pokemon have used them to develop their own language. Their name came from a remark by a Galarian explorer reporting an "unknown Pokemon" in some ruins in Johto, which stuck.

It is believed from ancient records they used to be far more powerful, capable of using moves such as Secret Power, Nature Power, and an enhanced Hidden Power. As-is now, an individual Unown is weak with a static Hidden Power. However, unusual phenomenon can happen when multiple Unown gather. Some believe them to have a connection to the Original One, but this hasn't been proven nor does it show in any major religion.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Kaede Minmei's Delphox "Fohoshi"
One of the fastest-rising members of the Kannagi Shrine. Trained by the Iga clan, Kaede Minmei uses her starter Pokemon's Psychic powers to become a master of illusion. Fohoshi was notably seen using a Magic Room and Sunny Day to conceal herself in the heat haze of the twisted space. While the ninja prefers indirect means in battle, Fohoshi is capable in direct combat as well.

 

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In a nutshell: Ground
Just like how fireproofing a building is a necessity, so is protecting it against Ground-type moves. This is far easier, at least: many moves actually involve creating shockwaves that simulate localized quakes or creating dirt, earth, etc. The former can still be destructive (and highly accurate!), so upper floors especially need to be able to take these moves. Others like Earth Power just attack with the power of Ground itself.

Pokemon of this type tend to be made up of softer materials than Rock-types. Because of their non-conductive skin, they are usually immune to Electric-type moves, but drenching them or somehow hitting the Pokemon's insides can work.

Who's who of type experts: Giovanni
Born as the heir of the yakuza organization Team Rocket, young Giovanni was groomed from birth to take over the organization from his mother. However, he was disgusted by this and choose to strike out on his own as a Pokemon Trainer with his trusty Rhyhorn. It was something he excelled at, and he enjoyed the thrill of battle. He won badges from all across the world and even won a Championship - turning it down because he felt the position wasn't for him.

He eventually found a woman to settle down with, and needing an outlet for his battling itch, lobbied to become a Gym Leader which the Kanto League jumped on. Things were good for a while, he had a kid and everything, even got to choose his preferred type. He could've easily made Elite Four or Champion if he felt compelled, and he almost did because of his son's expectations. But three things pushed him to take up his criminal birthright. The first was the unexpected passing of his wife in an accident. The second was boredom with testing trainers. Last suffering a humiliating loss in a Gym Leader tournament - he needed more power, so he would take it. The rest is history. As far as the public knew, he was just the Gym Leader who was infrequently around. Even the Officials didn't have enough evidence, which is why they had to let him go when he disbanded the Team in shame after they were defeated. He left to become a wandering trainer again to gain power his own way. He's even attended some tournaments.

He has since returned to leadership because what the remnants were turning his family business into utterly disgusted him. He has plans to clean up the organization with the ultimate goal to turn it legit. Out-of-universe, because really, more people need to write post-RBY Gio rather than what the anime made him become in subsequent games, but I'm splitting the difference.

Pokemon commentary: Infused into earth
There are a number of Pokemon who appear to be permanently attached to the ground beneath them. Many of these are Ground-types, with Diglett being the most famous example. It's believed these are so attuned with their type that they stay in contact at all times. In all cases, they move by "gliding" along the ground (to the relief of building designers everywhere), not disrupting it unless they use Dig. Uneven surfaces and tough material seem to slow them anyway, however. These Pokemon go as far as pulling part of the ground with them when thrown or when using a move that elevates them (most need indirect means like Mimic). They even take some into their Poke Balls, making use of it in case they are forcibly sent out in midair. Because of this, some theorize that their burrow is part of these Pokemon's bodies, but the exact nature is under investigation.

It's always been known what they look like below, by the way. X-rays, predators, and the Pokemon themselves have confirmed their appearance. They give no indication as to why these Pokemon are the way they are.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Rhydons
During his initial training with the Demon, Nori Carino encountered a mother Rhydon on Route 214. It proved a powerful and worthy opponent for the Demon, and unbeknownst to Nori, the Rhydon recognized the o'Fyma. It was with Nori's advice to go for the legs that the Demon was first able to gain ground, and marked when the Demon realized that Nori isn't so bad to be with. They ultimately defeated her, and Nori realized the Demon wasn't so bad when she spared severely harming the Rhydon and seemed to urge it to stop fighting for its child's sake.

In the upcoming fic, a teenager in the battling club in Nori's middle school, Emi Pikaru, challenge him with a Rhydon. How will it go besides bringing back memories? Probably well, but how exactly remains to be seen for you.

 

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Minor subject matter here. Still nothing serious!

In a nutshell: Flying
One of the more enigmatic types. It's unclear what separates something that flies from a Flying-type (and some can't even fly). It encompasses birds, bats, a handful of flying bugs, wind elementals, and things that are just strange. The prevailing theory due to the likes of Hoppip and Rotom is that this represents an affinity with wind. There has been a push to rename the type, but it has never got any traction.

It is considered unsporting to have a flying Pokemon keep out of reach, but unlike the Psychic example, official events often don't bar this tactic entirely. Contrary to popular belief, Ground-type moves are not ineffective on Flying-types. Rather, they can avoid moves like Earthquake by floating over them. Certain moves can inhibit their ability to fly, removing this advantage.

Who's who of type experts: Xing
Current member of the Sinnoh Elite Four and a Flying-type expert at the ripe age of seventeen. Xing was born a male in a Chinese region, and started to identify as nonbinary when they were twelve. This caused severe friction with their family who strongly disapproved. Their experiences are well-known but often go unspoken out of respect. They managed to get on a boat to Hoenn with the help of a good samaritan who helped report their family. Xing is a pseudonym they adopted for the public; it's not their family or given name. They do not mind use of the latter among officials or confidants.

Japan's regions have a lot of services for traveling trainers, so they started participating in Leagues, contests, etc. to make a living. They love birds for their freedom in being able to fly wherever they want, which settled their eventual choice of type easily. They actually got into the Elite Four directly thanks to Bertha and the then-outgoing Kenichi; they saw a trainer with a lot of untapped potential who badly needed nurturing, stability, and above all friends. Xing accepted their offer, also since it would mean being able to continue their education.

Xing's mental health is a concern of League Officials. Therapy has been helping, but they are very closed-off. They rarely open up, and it's only to a select few when they do. But when it comes time for a battle, Xing is almost trance-like in their tactics and strategy. They can even be ruthless; this is not out of cruelty or pragmatism, but because they feel every opportunity has to be taken. The only reason they are the first member of the Elite Four in hierarchy is because of the relative inexperience of their Pokemon. Their position may change in the future.

Pokemon commentary: Normal/Flying???
The Flying type is one of the rarest to see on its own, adding to the type's strangeness. Many birds that have no elemental affinity are Normal type as well. Nobody, Pokemon or otherwise, has been able to explain why it's the rarest of all types to see on its own. There has therefore been extensive research into those that are.

Tornadus, a type Pokemon revered in some cultures, is an avatar of wind. However, their counterparts also have the Flying type, muddying the waters. There are a line of cloud Pokemon who have been contrasted with Swablu (who later loses both types). Rookidee and Corvisquire proved promising research subjects for otherwise being similar to other birds. But the biggest thing has been the discovery that Hoothoot used to simply be a Flying-type despite being no different in appearance (unlike Noctowl). The prevailing theory therefore is that adopting the Normal-type was advantageous to birds' survival over keeping Flying alone. The Rookidee line is notoriously proud and may have chosen not to do so.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Kallisto Keravnos' Oricorio
Kallisto is one of the most popular and talented trainers not just in Sinnoh, but the world. He's talented, friendly, smart, attractive, and inspiring. It's widely agreed he's already surpassed Volkner (who he is a Gym Trainer for), and becoming a Champion like his cousin is inevitable. He has even spoken of becoming a multi-region Champion like Lance. His Oricorio is one of his key team members. She can be Electric-type whenever necessary, but with the nectar he buys she can be Psychic, Fire, or Ghost depending on Kallisto's needs. The change was shown on-camera as tripping up at least one person. Like most of his Pokemon, she has no nickname, because he's comically bad at coming up with them.

 

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In a nutshell: Bug
Little (and not so little) creepy (and cutie) crawlies. There are many Pokemon that can be called Bugs. Unlike animalistic ones, they don't necessarily need six or more legs. As stated before, types seem to be more of an essence within Pokemon than anything.

Bug-types are usually easy to manage and many of them grow quickly. This makes them a popular choice for new trainers, and also popular to cycle out of a team. While they have a reputation as being weak, there are countless exemplars in both Pokemon and type expert. There's even a pseudo-legendary line and at least one Bug-type expert Champion.

Who's who of type experts: Katy Campos
A confectioner who lives in Cortondo, Paldea. The Patisserie Soapberry is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Katy creates all of her bakery's sweets by hand. Her Bug Pokemon help gather the materials from the nearby orchards and sometimes help in sweetening.

While she was teased for her size growing up, she was just as likely to fight back or pull some pranks herself, which made her respected. Her fascination for Bug-types goes back to her childhood. She found enjoyment in cooking classes at Manzana Academy during her teenage years: eating made other people happy, which in turn made her happy. As an adult, she eventually traveled out of Paldea for several years to hone her skills in Pokemon and baking before returning to her hometown where she established the Patisserie Soapberry. A couple years later is when she was offered a position as a Gym Leader.

Katy is considered by many to be - or have been - one of the top Bug-type experts in the world. Her position is recent as of the series' present; she was recommended by her culinary teacher, Kofu Aguado. However, internal politics in the Paldea League ensure she can rarely go all out against opponents. It's part of why the Paldea League is less respected than others. She relishes the chance to face experienced out-of-region challengers. There have already been attempts to poach her, even with offers of Elite Four positions. She turned them down because of her bakery.

Pokemon commentary: Vivillion
There are many Pokemon that mimic the stages of a caterpillar in their evolutionary cycle. Vivillion is one of these, made distinct by its many wing forms. Which one it takes on depends on its environment, temperature, and even the weather upon the moment of evolution from Spewpa. While their wings become infused with power, their type and capabilities remain the same with one exception.

They are one of the few Pokemon to use the move Powder, coating an enemy in explosive dust. But their true signature move is Vivid Wings, unleashing the essence of nature within them. This can result in a Grass, Fire, Water, Ice, Ground, Steel, or Fairy-type move. Copying the move (through Mimic, Sketch, etc.) results in copying its type.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Amara Parisa's Beedrill
Of all the non-trainer and non-Pokemon duplicates, it's the crossover/referential one that stands out most here. Go figure. Beedrill is a Pokemon living in fear of an abusive trainer. They fought Nori Carino and his Pawniard during the Pokemon Rehabilitator's forced vacation to Johto. Irony was abound as neither trainer recognized the other. Beedrill proved a strong opponent even going up against a small type disadvantage. Between the aerial advantage and the other trainer's aggression, it had the strange result of Nori having to play differently than usual.

It was mostly as a result of writing the battle first in a prototype ficfic and trying to think how his behavior/strategy could fit once the actual series ironed out his personality, since the idea was supposed to be he likes playing overwhelming offensive power with skilled Pokemon. This pushed it further to making him more specifically good at timing and battle flow control while keeping the idea that he isn't much of a super strategist. But hey, he's still relatively new, and I could say this helps him develop in-universe, so, most noteworthy so far!

 

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In a nutshell: Steel
Metals of all sorts. In spite of non-magnetic metals existing, Steel-types seem to be universally magnetic. Despite their myriad of resistances, resourceful trainers can exploit nonstandard weaknesses on them: coldness, corrosion, conductivity, etc. Steel-types' unique metabolism makes them highly resistant to poisons.

Steel-types are occasionally harvested for materials. It's naturally considered inhumane to do this with a living specimen 95% of the time, but there have always been problems with poaching.

Who's who of type experts: Jasmine Pitt
The Gym Leader of Olivine City. While she never went on a journey at a young age, she studied to become a community leader. Part of this involved learning to train Pokemon to protect the town if necessary. It was only natural that she got noticed and offered a position as Gym Leader. She mused her type for a while before settling on Rock, mostly due to her bond with her Onix. In spite of her reputation as being shy and quiet, this is a veil for her true personality as a mature, (com)passionate, and confidant woman with a fiery side. In truth, that supposed shyness is simply that she has occasionally a bit of trouble with finding words when not speaking from the heart. It got blown out of proportion by her detractors; everyone has their own.

Changed her Gym's type when her Onix evolved; the League approved the choice when she showed she was committed and there wasn't a Steel-type Gym in Johto anyway. She is also notable for having multiple Pokemon of the same line: in particular a Magnemite and Magneton (Alphonse and Albert), two Togetic (Angelo and Angela), a Scizor (Ark) and a Kleavor (Axel), and two Steelix named Amandine and Rusty (she adopted the latter from a trainer who couldn't care for him anymore, so his nickname doesn't start with her favorite letter). She got into Pokemon Contests because of Rusty; he has a focus on Cuteness of all things and has done well in spite of the species not fitting it on paper. One of the most well-known examples of a Gym Leader owning Pokemon not of their type; discounting her Rock-types, the Ampharos (Ampere, Amphy affectionately) in the Glitter Lighthouse is hers.

She's good friends with many of the Gym Leaders of Johto, and is often considered their heart. Among other those in other regions, Flint Donaldson in particular is a close friend of hers due to their similar personalities and both's first Pokemon being a Steelix that evolved from Onix. She met him on a trip to Sunyshore, which she considers her second home due to also being a coastal town with a lighthouse.

Pokemon commentary: Anchorage and Angorhead
Two unrelated beta Pokemon, Ikari and Jagg, lightly modified and turned relatives for their similar appearances. They're Steel/Water types. Anchorage was an obvious portmanteau. Anger, anchor, gore (inspired by Nob's names), and hammerhead make up the latter's.

An Anchorage has jaws strong enough to bite through steel. They fashion anchors from the hulls of sunken boats, if not pilfering them. They have mutualistic interactions with Dhelmise; they've been known to teach young Anchorage to use Anchor Shot, and sometimes attach itself to hunt food with them. They swing their anchor to attack and sometimes move. They require a Heavy Anchor and a burst of energy (like from a trading machine) to evolve. Upon doing so, the anchor merges to become part of their body. Angorheads can attack by ramming foes with their horn-like head. They have a tough backside made of metal leading into a pointed and prehensile tail-fin. Capable of moving on land to a limited degree using their fins, much like a sea lion, though in the wild they prefer to only do so when necessary. They get along with other sharks (Pokemon or otherwise) but fights for dominance are common.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Edward "Eddie" Hankstein's Magneton/Magnezone
Eddie is one of Volkner's Gym Trainers and this is his best Pokemon. It evolved into Magnezone mid-fic when he went on a trip with his geologist parents to Mt. Coronet in March; he previously had no time or excuse to go and didn't want to waste money on a Thunder Stone. A strong and sturdy Pokemon with a variety of strategies, including ramming with Iron Head or Body Press and using Lock-On to make its Zap Cannon or Thunder near perfectly accurate (plus Flash Cannon, etc). It was Nori and the Demon's biggest obstacle in a battle with his continued training by Volkner on the line. Eddie continued to use it periodically throughout the fic. It's mostly an obedient and serious Pokemon with not much in the way of emotion, although it can be thrown off by oddness.

 

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In a nutshell: Fighting
What separates a Normal-type strike from a Fighting-type one appears to be technique. Pokemon of this type don't necessarily specialize in hand-to-hand - Lucario is the most famous example of preferring raw ki - but all are similar.

They are a popular choice of Pokemon for martial artists for practical reasons: they make good sparring partners. Throughout history, humans and Fighting-type Pokemon have taught or inspired new and different combat styles in each other.

Who's who of type experts: Kiyo Kobashi
A master of karate and former Gym Leader of Saffron City. Kiyo has an ego and the skills to match, and is the kind of person who can swing from calm to hot-blooded at the ring of a bell. He was also known to be very generous, giving Fighting-types out to trustworthy trainers with potential. Many of them he bred himself - he actually ran a caretaker's farm for a while. He is known to train in remote or treacherous locations simply because he can. Before Giovanni was known as the Kanto Gym Leader who frequently wasn't around, it was Kiyo. It eventually got to the point of where he appointed his greatest disciple who hadn't yet graduated to another position, Koichi Takenaka, as his successor - or replacement in his absence as he would say. If they're a notable Fighting-type expert worldwide, especially if they happen to be martial artists themselves, it's likely Kiyo visited or trained with them.

Saffron City was one of the few in the world to have two Gyms. Kiyo's was the original, but one day a newcomer named Sabrina was offered a position in Kanto and wanted to put her Gym there. Kiyo actually trounced her in the subsequent battle, especially thanks to his ace Annihilape, but allowed her to remain out of mercy and feeling there was no reason a city as big as Saffron couldn't hold two Gyms. The League acquiesced. However, Sabrina was notoriously unstable: it was well-known that she had two personalities, and the loss simmered in the mind of the cruel one (she used a whip for crying out loud!). She somehow got in League officials' heads years later, and threw out a second challenge when Kiyo was away training in the deserts of Orre. The result was the opposite: Sabrina winning and showing no pity. He was not happy about his Gym suddenly losing its status, turned it into the unofficial Fighting Dojo out of spite, and has since become an advocate of League reform worldwide.

Kiyo ultimately got the last laugh. His Dojo became highly successful, blending physical training and Pokemon training. The earliest branch location was in Sinnoh, started by an old training partner and then-Elite Four member, Kenichi. It is presently without a master, however. Kiyo even refused to retake his position as Gym Leader after Sabrina was scandalized for her connections to Team Rocket and actually vouched for her. After all, it was the cruel side that was in control then. He solved the issue and got his revenge on it by teaching Sabrina to hone her mind (an important part of martial arts!), the result of which was effectively assimilating it into the kinder, true side that hated battling until then. They've been unlikely friends ever since. There's rumors they're a couple behind-the-scenes, but both have denied it.

Pokemon commentary: Throh and Sawk
Many Fighting-types modeled their style after human-developed martial arts. However, the case of these two is so absurd, some wonder why it was never in the fictional Hisui stories.

It happened in Sinnoh in the late nineteenth century. Two unknown Fighting-type Pokemon resembling oni appeared atop Mt. Coronet. The blue one had a single horn and the red one had two. Their power and battles together were wild and unrestrained. Wild Pokemon who attempted to intervene were quickly swatted away. A few humans attempted to stop them through various means. Those who tried diplomacy were dismissed, and those who attempted force met with the same fate as wild Pokemon. The Master of the Kannagi Shrine reported feeling an immense pressure from the duo. It was collaborated by an Alakazam of a would-be attacking trainer, saying through telepathy that it could not focus.

Two new species had been discovered, but what were they? The horns and rivalry reminded many of the harbingers of wind and thunder respectively, although Throh wasn't the right color. Were they new creations of the Original One? Were they to be revered? As most stayed away while the talks went on, two brothers traveled up the mountain and challenged each of the Pokemon to single combat. At the end, the Pokemon lay defeated, not at the hands of Pokemon but at human martial arts.

They rose, beaten and humbled. They approached the victors, and then something strange happened. We have only the brothers' accounts to go on, but this is what they said.

"Manh," the red one spoke aloud. It was not unknown for Pokemon to speak; they have their own languages. But aside from the first word, they spoke Japanese. "What is that style?"

The one brother bowed. "It is called Judo."

"Kisama," the blue one pointed, bitter and frustrated. "How did you win?"

"Karate," came the reply. "And discipline."

The two Pokemon's fights had always been inconclusive, and they had never known clean defeat. It was technique that triumphed over raw power. The two spoke briefly in their language, thanked the men, and said they had trained themselves well so they would do the same. About a year later, a new species of Pokemon was discovered in other parts of the world. One was red, one was blue. They appeared to wear the respective attire of the brothers, woven from materials like vines, etc., and fought with techniques resembling judo and karate respectively. What was even stranger was how many had lived for longer than a year, and through translators spoke of gaining sudden inspiration to venture out into the world and train with discipline.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Huh? Somehow none...
Well, there's two rivals of Tono that use a Medicham and Breloom, but they hardly count. Hmm...okay, I got it.

Noteworthy future Pokemon in-fic: Maylene Gavali's Toxicroak
It will eventually come time for canon to take over and Maylene - presently a recurring character and friend of Nori - to become a Gym Leader. She's already getting self-defense lessons and is going to be trained by Gasha Qian after circumstances I haven't decided yet - but Xing's backstory here was to establish the League does take in trainers (and this goes a ways to explain Maylene's canon confusion as to why she's a Gym Leader). She'll get a Croagunk as a gift to blend Fighting and Poison, taking up the position of her ace in my ficverse.

 

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In a nutshell: Ice
While just another state of matter in nature, there is a distinct difference in the world of Pokemon between frozen water and the Ice-type. The former is why any Water-type who can take it can use Ice moves, making some trainers shy away from Pokemon of the same type. There are fewer examples of the opposite holding true; Chilling Water is one of the more common examples.

They have more weather associated with them than any other type. Hail harms other types, snow shores up their defense, and snowstorms do both. Ice-types are closer to "cold" types than anything.

Who's who of type experts: Melony Winters
Galar's Pokemon League is often derided by the rest of the world by trying too hard, not being inclusive, and uncreative badge names. Many feel their culture instills toxicity into Pokemon training. This is very apparent to other Europeans when the most headstrong Galarian trainers visit their nearby regions, but it perhaps is no more apparent than to a mother.

No one can deny Galarian trainers' skills (if since the weak ones aren't allowed to continue officially), and with rare exceptions even their attitudes stay within boundaries. Melony Winters of Circhester is an excellent example. She loved Pokemon battling growing up. She managed to keep her personality on and off the battlefield separate, but on it she was as harsh and severe as a snowstorm. Not only that, she was good at battling, way better than most. This resulted in her becoming a Gym Leader at the age of 21. Ice-types were suited to the environment in her hometown and she liked them anyway. Many would-be trainers were drawn in by her bubbly and cheerful personality, but only a few could endure her strict training (and many were shocked by it).

She was hopeful her children, Gordie and Ginny, would follow in her footsteps. She got them private tutoring, and was planning on passing her Gym down to them. But Gordie, while talented, became influenced by the worst of Galarian trainer culture. He resented her for many reasons and bullied his younger sister relentlessly to where she didn't want to be a trainer anymore. The two had a big falling out around the time Gordie left for his Gym Challenge, endorsed by his tutor. It was capped by him saying he would train Rock-types to crush her, and although he lost to her, more of the town took his side than she was expecting, which shook her worldview. Especially when her daughter openly questioned, "Mum, is this why dad left?" That said, Melony still does her best to support her son like any good mother would, and is the secret chairwoman of his rapidly-growing fan club. But if she finds love again and has any more kids, she certainly intends to raise them better. Preferably out of Galar.

She has several friendships due to her personality off the battlefield, including the Leaders/former Leaders Raihan (who considers her a worthy opponent), Kiyo (fellow proponent of League reform), Sabrina (by proxy), Jasmine (fellow heart of their League), Lorelei, Pryce, and Wulfric (also Ice-type enthusiasts), and even Giovanni (who also has child issues). She met most through worldwide tournaments.

Pokemon commentary: Lapras
The posterchild of riding on Pokemon across water. They are kind and compassionate descendants from ancient plesiosaur-like Pokemon who are always willing to transport those who can't swim, person or Pokemon. They are believed to be one of the first Pokemon tamed. Their survival instincts were low due to having few natural predators, not helped by natural pacifism in the wild. This made them an easy target for poachers who wanted their shells or to capture them for use/selling. They were smart enough to adapt, and now few make themselves known to humans. Conservationists and mediators have been working to reverse the damage that has been done.

They have a regional variant found in cold regions, most famous as one of Tiksi Champion Ivan Turgenev's best Pokemon. Due to no clear attribution, they are commonly called Arctic Lapras. Their bodies are a pale blue with white patches, their horns are very sharp, their mouths have more teeth, and their back is a bed of icy spikes not suited for riding. They are larger and more showy than regular Lapras, but like them, are often led by the largest - and can get large enough to make big waves. Arctic Lapras are not docile like the standard variant, but nor are they aggressive. They lose their Water type and singing abilities, but awaken their latent Psychic abilities to better communicate in low-visibility waters. Poachers who try to go after these ones thinking they're just as easy a mark as their counterparts often end up gruesomely killed.

Experiments with transmutation in the Galar region have revealed a relative of the Pokemon with a siren-like song and larger shell. It is unknown whether this is another variant or an evolution. These experiments were shut down for being inhumane after a tip by an anonymous source believed to be Melony, who famously owns a Lapras as her ace. Though this might be rewritten depending on what I decide to do with GMax, probably not keeping it as-is, but I'll get to that when relevant.

Noteworthy future Pokemon in-fic: The Terror of Edinburgh
A Pokemon that will appear in the future and has actually already appeared in secondary sources. About fifty years ago, a very large and very powerful Frosmoth took over the castle on top of Crown Mountain after defeating its king. Vicious and territorial, she attacked humans and Pokemon alike and amassed many followers, including Glastier and Articuno. She was especially beloved by the Pokemon that humanity thought extinct, as her actions protected them. Initially contained to the mountain, her scope spread further after an incident five years prior. Bad news for gung-ho trainers from Galar looking for a new team member. Attempts to capture or subdue her over the years have been unsuccessful whenever people bothered. While she's mostly been left alone (if not out of respect, then out of sanity), the feeling is that sooner or later, she'll have to be dealt with.

She is a firm believer in Pokemon superiority, though is sensible enough not to antagonize all of humanity. She questioned why they chose to be subservient to humanity; it was so ingrained it was part of most's nature, and those old enough to remember either wouldn't answer or gave her poor ones as far as she saw it. Her actions have been rejected by many of her peers, being called things like tyrant, false monarch, race traitor, and even enemy to all Pokemon. Her followers title her utmasbdokrul: great conquering night queen. Her name above is what the media in Galar calls her.

 

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In a nutshell: Dragon
They use a unique type of energy in their attacks. Due to Pokemon of the type looking like big reptiles, they were dubbed the Dragon-type. A lot of the world's Pokemon with the most powerful base potential, including those considered Legendary, are of this type. Some postulate that it's a type based around asserting superiority over others, which may explain why Fairies who just don't care and do what they do, are immune.

Not every reptilian Pokemon is a Dragon. In fact, there is a disproportionate amount of Pokemon that seem like they should be the type but aren't. Gyarados is the biggest standout, to where many Dragon-type experts train them anyway. Quite a few Dragon-type experts stretch the boundaries in this way and few get criticism over it, especially when there's a lack of type diversity in their region. Raihan of Galar in particular pushes it so far that even he jokes he's more of a "weather-type expert."

Who's who of type experts: Lance Cipris
A native of Blackthorn City and descendant of its original dragon tamers, often called the Dragon Master. Lance is the Champion of two different Pokemon Leagues, Kanto and Johto. He won the position of Kanto League Champion in a tournament between top trainers after the incumbent mysteriously vanished without a word (granted the kid never spoke much to begin with, but this was different). Lance already was the Champion of Johto and an Elite Four member of Kanto. He has always been of the belief that a Champion should be a role model and do as much as they can for their region. This is why he became a member of the International Police so that he could operate in an official capacity. League Officials worry he'll get himself hurt or killed on the job, especially now that he's looking out for two regions at once, but couldn't exactly stop him.

Lance is a man who likes simple pleasures like white wine. He is personable despite his position, and has even been known to give advice to or vouch for young trainers, notably the trainer who caught the Red Gyarados in Johto, which needed the same sort of professional help his Dragonite needed. He is a compassionate man, but can be merciless towards criminals, especially those who threaten Pokemon or the innocent. Lance has an occasional flair for the dramatic. Make no mistake either, he believes Dragons are the strongest type. He is also a master of training them, being able to teach them moves that few others can have them learn.

Pokemon commentary: Swablu, Altaria, Soprodia
They are Pokemon covered in cotton-like down that resemble clouds. Very cleanly and friendly. Older variants of Swablu did not have white wings. The sudden change, believed to be an adaptation to camouflage itself in the sky from its predators, prompted confusion in early humans. Its evolutions are little different. Altaria gets an affinity for singing, occasionally weaponizing it by screeching at attackers. They envelop their friends with their wings to protect them, or let them feel safe. Soprodia becomes even fluffier and bolder. Someone who didn't know musical terms submitted the official English name for Alt(o)aria despite Altaria being able to hit a soprano. It turned out to be a happy accident when it was discovered to have a proper evolution that is not a Mega in any way despite literally being that.

These Pokemon were the subjects of much research due to how Swablu loses both of its types by the end of its evolutionary chain. It was known that latent Dragon genes awaken in it, and eventually was proven that it had Fairy genes as well. It eventually led to a theorem that Pokemon cannot have more than two types except through artificial means. Types are encoded into a Pokemon's genetic makeup, and there are multiple examples of dormant types within them. At least one is always strong enough to show (again, short of means such as Burn Up removing it), but even if multiple fit this criteria, only two manifest in what affects its body. In Swablu's case, the first evolution causes its Dragon type to surpass Normal, and again for Fairy supplanting Flying.

Noteworthy future Pokemon in-fic: Morgan Lemetin O'Moore's Latias "Mariel"
The Battle Maison was established by Caden J. O'Moore and his wife Chitoki (nee. Otori), as an elegant take on battle facilities inspired by Kalos (where Caden grew up, although his family comes from Crown Island) and based in Hoenn (where Chitoki is from). They are both serious trainers who have even captured Pokemon considered to be legendary, using them in their roles as Matrone and Somerled. They have had four daughters together and have been grooming them since birth to reach the same level of success as trainers.

It was to their delight when their eldest daughter managed to befriend a wounded baby Latias one day while traveling through Hoenn. Even if Latias is hardly worthy of the title in their opinion. She was being attacked by a rampaging Salamence. Ever the one to look out for others (she was used to it because of her sisters), Morgan sprang into action and repelled it. The Latias, hopelessly separated from her flock, decided to join her savior.

While Latias are strong as a species, Mariel prefers not to fight due to trauma from the incident, nor does Morgan ever force her to. Instead she stays at her friend's side, disguised as a human maid using her powers of light refraction. Fittingly, Morgan named her after a maid character in an anime she watched. But when push comes to shove, she will try. Mariel has natural power and a degree of training, so she certainly can produce results. Especially if say, some upstart is insulting Morgan's family or someone is trying to supplant the Maison.

 

[Greninjaman]

If you were to rank all the types, how would you do so? What order would you put them in?

 

[System Error]

If you were to rank all the types, how would you do so? What order would you put them in?

I wouldn't be able to because I don't have any particular favorite or unfavorite type. I'd have to use some sort of other arbitrary criteria.

 

[System Error]

In a nutshell: Ghost
Not to be confused with the actual undead, ghosts are nonetheless spectral in natural. These allow them to phase through walls and even the ground with effort, or traps laid by enemies. They're also experts at manipulating shadows. There seems to be a mutual separation between them and Normal-types, preventing their moves from affecting each other without special moves or abilities coming into play.

There are many exaggerated stories of Ghost Pokemon's behavior. While some are dangerous, they are no less proportionately so than any other type. They seem to be close to the Dark-type given their similar offensive properties. While normally super effective on Psychic-types, there was once a disruption in the 1970s that rendered them immune in the Kanto region for about a day. Few know this was tied to a release of energy by a newly created Pokemon.

Who's who of type experts: Melissa "Fantina" Couture
Fantina is the stage name of Melissa Couture, one of the most accomplished trainers to come from the Kalos region in France. She was always interested in fashion ever since she was a little girl. Her parents entered her into some beauty pageants when she was a kid. She won some, but for little Melissa, they felt like they were missing something for her. The answer of what would come when she got her first Pokemon as a gift for her ninth birthday from her uncle, who had been to a couple different regions in Europe and gave her a choice. So, Showcases, her parents reluctantly asked? No, said Melissa! They were girls only, and she wanted to face anyone! And they were stupid, she added!

She went on a journey when eleven with her Fuecoco. During it, she heard about something called Pokemon Contests from a traveler from Japan. This was before the internet was anything but a command line interface and primitive exchanges, so she just had his word. But they sounded amazing! So when she was sixteen and had some time off school, she went to Hoenn, the birthplace of Contests. They suited her tastes exactly! She also met her friend and rival there, Gasha Qian. After entering and winning her first Normal-rank contest on the trip, Melissa returned after finishing school and jumped into the world of Contests. She took up the name "Fantina" for the stage, a portmanteau of her middle name and phantom; she wore masks as part of her attire to give herself mystique, and thought of the Phantom of the Opera. One of the first Pokemon she caught in Japan would later become her ace, Loony the Drifloon. Loony focused on Cool contests at first, but he's adaptable.

Fantina ultimately ended up receiving the title of Grandmaster, which is given only to those who excelled at all five categories across many regions and/or done a lot for Contests in-general. And she did both! She wasn't the first to dress up for a Contest, but the masks were unique even if they never caught on (she even dropped them). Mainly, it was her inspiration and spreading them to Europe that helped. She even tore things up in the Contest Battling scene as well (an unpopular offshoot that tried to blend training and contests, but was too convoluted and missed the nuances of nonviolence). She enjoyed competition enough to do battling as well and got good results. She had standing offers of seniority in the Contest scene from many regions, which involves things like judging. While it was tempting to go back home and help the fledgling scene there, Sinnoh had a lot to offer. She decided to march in and demand a Gym position in Hearthome (where Master rank and major events take place), just to see if they would jump. While the League and Contest associations are usually on shaky terms, they showed unity to get her. She passed the test and got accepted when there was an opening. Ghost was an obvious pick for a type specialty due to her starter, Loony, and stage name lining up.

Like her friendly rival, Fantina is always willing to help out Coordinators with promise - part of their rivalry is seeing who mentors the better ones. One of the girls she helped ended up becoming one of her half-niece's best friends. Fantina has always been one to support her family, and still does that even from Sinnoh, so that made her smile. To contrast, said relative was more interested in her Pokemon training techniques. She can teach that too, of course - she didn't become a Gym Leader for nothing.

Pokemon commentary: Cursewl and Voonda
Doll-like Pokemon who are relatives of Shuppet, etc. Their signature move is Nail Down, which damages them slightly but unavoidably damages the target even more. Cursewl is a Pokemon with the appearance of a straw doll with a needle stuck inside its chest. Despite what you might expect, they are very friendly and personable Pokemon whose waddling movements are like a dance. They use these to befuddle foes before striking or escaping. The Shuppet line does not like them for sometimes being spawned from beloved, well-used dolls compared to them being abandoned.

They evolve into Voonda with use of a Hidden Needle and a burst of energy. As creepy as their appearance is, they are no less friendly toward others. A lot of people think they're like jiangshi because of the seal-like object attached to their front and holding their arms out like one; in truth, the seal is part of their anatomy, and they just like to be held - they're looking for a hug! They can attune their minds with others, allowing them to feel the same things they do and vice versa. Voonda will gladly take some of their friends' pain so they don't have to endure it...or turn it back on their attackers. It should come as no surprise that Synchronize is one of their abilities. They hide their needles in their body, but like Cursewl, can pull it out to use as a weapon.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: MASSIVE MEMORY OF A GHOUL SPOILERS Konrad Guhl's S-Zoroark "Fuchspuk"
Proving that being a Ghost and being a ghost aren't mutually exclusive, this is a Pokemon that remained loyal to his trainer in their mutual passing. While Guhl usually used traditional German names, he invented one for Zoroark. They haunted an old warehouse, attacking people who went inside in attempt to have a good fight they couldn't have in life. Prema Kannagi battled them and their allies in attempt to set their souls at ease. Despite his teammates falling and his frailty due to lacking a physical body, Fuchspuk was powerful enough to defeat Taiyoko with some fortune. But phantom Pokemon always have to be careful that they do not sustain too much damage, however...

 

[System Error]

In a nutshell: Dark
Pokemon that wield dark powers (duh!). They are frequently misunderstood as being bad; even the literal translation of their traditional Japanese name is evil. This is anything but the case, however. "あく" has a variety of meanings, one prominent one is to be free or open which explains them being on a different wavelength. Indeed, there are many examples of Dark-types that are as free of evil as you can get, such as Absol, Greninja, or Lokix.

They were notably omitted from the first in the video game franchise, which were originally conceived as a virtual journey for a man's paraplegic daughter who couldn't do so herself. Shoddy programming, questionable Pokemon selection, and deadlines hitting before they could add more were the culprit, so the type ultimately ended up dummied out along with others.

Who's who of type experts: Priest Warutsu Amaya
One of the highest ranking members of the Kannagi Shrine and the former Gym Leader of Celestic Town before he retired to focus more on his duties, namely heading up the original location of the shrine after they build a branch location in Veilstone. Many believed that if he committed full-time, he could've easily surpassed Volkner and Flint to become Elite Four. Born and raised in Celestic and following his parents into the faith from a young age, he was formerly (and often still acts) as a bodyguard for Masters and other members of the Kannagi family. 50 years old at present, he has white eyes, shaves his head by choice, and tanned skin from how much time he spends outdoors.

The Kannagi teachings say in-part to embrace your emotion, positive and negative. They are all a gift from the Great Mesprit. It is okay to feel dark thoughts or want to do vice, so long as you are not controlled by them. It's just as possible for positive thoughts to control you for that matter. To that end, he chose to train Dark-types, who represent vice more than anything. His ace is his Spiritomb, a Pokemon he tamed after it was unsealed long ago, but he has many others: Umbreon, Overqwil, and Houndeign to name a few of his Dark-types, and Gargancl and Mr. Mime to name a couple others. He notably owns a naturally-born Phione, which are stronger than those born in captivity. He found and nurtured the lost egg five years ago after the passing of his Bibarel, and wanted to return it to the sea after it was born, but it wished to remain by his side.

Pokemon commentary: Murkrow, Honchkrow, and Murkraft
They have a love for shiny objects and like to share them with their friends. They'll even steal from other Pokemon. Highly intelligent, they have sometimes been known to fashion rudimentary tools out of branches. There is a lot of superstition surrounding Murkrow, such as bringing misfortune, but none of it has been scientifically proven. While they might fight each other for food or sparklies, the species has a camaraderie. Some gather in groups led by a Honchkrow, their evolution. They are more often than not the textbook example of a bully, preferring to let the ones below them fight, hunt food, etc. Because of this, many wild Honchkrow who indulge in this behavior are out of practice. While the murders put up with it for the order they bring, Honchkrows have known to be deposed if they are too abusive. Some will take any opportunity to get their talons on a Dusk Stone.

Murkrow have a regional variant. Their eyes and beak are thinner, their tail is longer, and they have one longer point on their head plumage. If it's unclear, this is basically Spaceworld Murkrow. These Dark/Fairy variants prefer to keep to themselves as they practice their powers. Contrasting the main line's blackish blue with red, these are more of a purple shade with a bit of white. Through a Shiny Stone, they evolve into Murkraft. There was even more superstition surrounding these witch-like Pokemon, especially in Europe and North-Eastern America. In truth and in contrast to their other forms, they are generally moral or at least not immoral Pokemon. They hold life in high regard and are careful about using their powers (especially back then). They can learn a diverse set of mostly Special moves with external help. They sometimes get regular Murkrow following them in places where the variants can cross over.

Noteworthy Pokemon in-fic: Nori Carino's Pawniard
The main subject and de facto main antagonist of Blade of the Blackout Killer. Pawniard is a Pokemon formerly owned by a serial killer named Lochlyn Nuzzo who targeted trainers who lost battles to him. It is unknown if he killed Pokemon of his own who fainted, but Pawniard laughed when questioned about it. He sadistic and cruel, and he's Nori's first assignment as a Pokemon Rehabilitator. Nori's other Pokemon dislike him, it's a massive source of fear for his friends, and even Prema is uncertain. The one thing he has going for him is a willingness to listen, but how much can you ask someone to change?