The Rustboro Gym stood out prominently in the heart of Rustboro City like a grand and classical structure, perfectly blending with the city's distinctive architectural style. Its thick gray stone walls, made from meticulously joined large blocks, gave a sense of both weight and solidity. The high ceiling revealed large wooden beams running across, combined with soft yellow light from hanging lamps, creating an atmosphere that was both solemn and warm.
The reason this building was constructed so sturdily came from the unique nature of the place. The Gym leader used Rock-type Pokémon — creatures with massive weight and footsteps echoing like hammers striking stone walls. Every time they moved or launched an attack, the battlefield shook with every impact. Therefore, the architect specially reinforced the foundation and framework to withstand the heavy weight and powerful collisions from fierce battles.
Inside the Gym, voices, footsteps on the wooden floor, and Pokémon clashing echoed throughout the vast space. The stands were arranged in rows circling the arena, packed with spectators. Today was especially crowded, as besides local trainers, many visitors from other regions had come. They came not only to challenge but also to attend Professor Oak's lecture — a rare event.
Several battles were actively underway on the battlefield. Commands shouted rapidly mixed with Pokémon roars and the sounds of skills striking the rocky walls. Each hit kicked up light dust, creating a fierce and realistic atmosphere.
As soon as they passed through the large gate, May eagerly ran to the registration desk to get her battle number. Alex followed at a leisurely pace, and together they found seats in the stands. From there, they could observe the entire arena.
Here, the rules were clear: to face the Gym leader, challengers had to first defeat all the trainee trainers. Only by overcoming them could challengers qualify for the ultimate challenge. Winning meant earning a badge — proof of a trainer's strength and skill. The number of badges a trainer possessed was often the most direct measure of their ability.
"Alex, look! That person over there is the Gym leader," May said excitedly, pointing to a woman standing at the farthest battlefield.
Alex glanced in the indicated direction. Roxanne appeared with her characteristic elegance: a lightly flared dress, highlighted by a bright red bow on her chest. Her long, soft brown hair was neatly tied back with a red scarf, revealing a bright face and focused eyes. Her appearance radiated calm, but her gaze held a hint of mischievous unpredictability.
In front of Roxanne stood a Nosepass — a Pokémon resembling a giant rock with a prominent red nose. The two cooperated skillfully, battling a trainer sweating profusely.
"That's Nosepass. I always lose to it," May frowned, her voice tinged with frustration.
Alex glanced over, his eyes flickering with familiar information:
[Ability]: Magnet Pull — uses magnetic force to trap Steel-type Pokémon, preventing them from escaping.
[Description]: Nosepass attracts and stores iron with a strong magnetic field to protect itself from attacks. This magnetic force intensifies in critical situations.
As Gym leader, Roxanne was responsible for selecting capable trainers for the League. So when accepting a challenge, she usually adjusted her Pokémon's strength to match the opponent — not too weak to lose the challenge's meaning, but not using their full real power. Her main Pokémon were typically levels 40–50, but rarely appeared in normal matches, as doing so would leave young trainers almost no chance.
"You challenged several times and lost, always using Aron?" Alex asked while observing the battle.
"Yes. Aron is Steel-type, counters Rock-type. Torchic is countered by Nosepass, so I never send it out," May replied, a bit embarrassed.
"Hmm." Alex nodded slightly, eyes never leaving the battle. He noted how confidently Roxanne controlled the fight, anticipating each opponent's move.
Rumor had it she was one of Rustboro Pokémon School's top students and, thanks to outstanding results, passed the League's test to become Gym leader at a very young age.
The battle reached a crucial moment. Roxanne signaled Nosepass to stand firm, facing north. With its short arm, she picked up a small stone and lightly tossed it toward the opponent — a move seeming only to distract. In the moment the opponent was distracted dodging, Roxanne immediately ordered Nosepass to use a recovery move, restoring its recently lost stamina.
The opponent, already struggling against Nosepass's fortress-like defense, grew even more desperate. All the effort spent pushing for half the battle seemed wasted.
"I surrender!" the defeated trainer shouted helplessly across the Gym.
May sighed and shook her head. "So frustrating… I thought I had a chance, but just one move wiped away all hope."
Alex smiled gently. "Actually, it's not that hard to beat Nosepass."
"Really!?" May's eyes brightened immediately, her hands grabbing Alex's arm and shaking it excitedly. "Alex, tell me, please!"
Alex chuckled. "Alright, alright, stop, or I'll get thrown off."
Despite her cute appearance, May was strong. Her enthusiasm made Alex feel like he was on a boat in rough seas.
"Yes!" May stared at him, eyes full of anticipation.
Alex didn't beat around the bush and began explaining in detail what he had just observed — from Roxanne's commands, small weaknesses in her strategy, to the right moment to strike.
May nodded repeatedly, her face lighting up as if she had just found the key to the puzzle. "No wonder I kept losing… the secret was here all along!"