As night falls, we are taken aback when Linoone begins to glow, prompting Alice to question, "Wait, Linoone is the final form, isn't it? Why is it glowing like that?"

With surprise evident in my voice, I exclaim, "Could it be...?"

Once the luminous transformation concludes, Linoone has evolved into a towering Pokémon. Elena quickly identifies the newly evolved creature, stating, "That's an Obstagoon. It has a unique move called Obstruct, capable of blocking attacks while also reducing the Defense stat if hit directly."

Obstagoon: The Blocking Pokemon: Dark and Normal Type. Evolved from Linoone at LV:35 at night. Its voice is staggering in volume. Obstagoon has a tendency to take on a threatening posture and shout—this move is known as Obstruct.

Encountering and battling Shiinotic in the Glimwood Tangle, our Koffing undergoes a remarkable evolution, transforming into a unique Weezing.

"Wow, look at it! It has two chimneys atop its body," I exclaim, astonished by the distinct appearance of the evolved Weezing. "And it seems to emit clean air too."

Weezing (Galarian Form): The Poison Gas Pokemon: Poison and Fairy Type. Evolved from Koffing at LV:35. This Pokémon consumes particles that contaminate the air. Instead of leaving droppings, it expels clean air.

Alice expresses her thoughts on the peculiar combination of Poison and Fairy types, remarking, "Poison and Fairy is a weird combination... But you have to admit it's a good Pokémon."

Flora agrees, acknowledging the unique fusion of types, and concurs with a simple, "You're right." Despite the unconventional mix, they both recognize the effectiveness and strength of the Pokémon in question.

It's an exciting time for our Starter Pokémon as they near their evolutionary stages. Drizzile appears particularly eager, eagerly anticipating its transformation into an Inteleon. Thwackey and Raboot, while not as outwardly expressive, also seem poised for their evolution.

During our training session with the Fairy-type Pokémon, all three Starters harness their determination and bond with the Fairy-types. Eventually, the culmination of their hard work and synergy results in a momentous evolution for each one of them.

Drizzile, full of enthusiasm, undergoes its evolution, finally becoming an Inteleon, while Thwackey and Raboot, steadfast and composed, also evolve into their respective final forms. The successful evolution marks a significant milestone in their growth and journey together.

Rillaboom: The Drummer Pokemon: Grass Type. Evolved from Thwackey at LV:35. By drumming, it taps into the power of its special tree stump. The roots of the stump follow its direction in battle.

Cinderace: The Striker Pokemon: Fire Type. Evolved from Raboot at LV:35. It juggles a pebble with its feet, turning it into a burning soccer ball. Its shots strike opponents hard and leave them scorched.

Inteleon: The Secret Agent Pokemon: Water Type. Evolved from Drizzile at LV:35. It has many hidden capabilities, such as fingertips that can shoot water and a membrane on its back that it can use to glide through the air.

Gloria raises an interesting observation, remarking, "A Drummer, a Striker, and a Secret Agent... Why do their categories become jobs?"

Reflecting on their evolved forms, I reply, "Who knows, but they certainly do resemble those specific professions."

As our journey progresses, Silicobra reaches its evolution stage, transforming into a formidable Sandaconda. With its evolution, Sandaconda becomes a powerful addition to our team, showcasing newfound strength and capabilities in our adventures ahead.

Sandaconda: The Sand Snake Pokemon: Ground Type. Evolve from Silicobra at LV:36. When it contracts its body, over 220 pounds of sand sprays from its nose. If it ever runs out of sand, it becomes disheartened.

Arriving at Ballonlea, we are greeted by the enchanting sight of a town nestled amidst the towering trees. I express my admiration, noting, "This place is truly beautiful in its own unique way."

Alice chimes in, captivated by the luminescent glow of the mushrooms adorning the surroundings. "Look at all those glowing mushrooms. Even in this darkness, it doesn't feel gloomy at all," she remarks, joining me in marveling at the ethereal ambiance of the town.

Venturing to deliver the letter, we're taken aback when we find out that Frank, the intended recipient, is an elderly man instead of the boy we expected. He receives the letter and reminisces, "Now, who could be sending me letters? Oh, Paula! It's been ages. Paula and I spent endless hours playing together when I was a young lad... She fell ill, you know. Kept it a secret, she did. We had a terrible row about it... Then I moved away not long after. Never saw her again. How is she? Did she seem well?"

Caught off guard by the unexpected turn of events, we consider Paula's mysterious absence. Not wanting to cause any further distress, I gently reply, "She seemed well."

Frank expresses his gratitude, offering a Choice Scarf as a token of appreciation. Despite his gratitude, the atmosphere leaves us feeling unsettled, stirring up a sense of eerie uncertainty surrounding Paula's absence.

Entering the Ballonlea Stadium, the staff approaches us with a proposition, "Gym Challenger, are you ready to take on our gym?"

"Absolutely," I affirm.

Following her instructions, I proceed to the changing room and put on the gym's uniform. Upon emerging, I find myself adorned in a vibrant attire comprising a pink and light blue shirt and shorts, accompanied by matching tights. The staff emphasizes the significance of the challenge, remarking, "This won't just be a task, but rather a thorough evaluation of your abilities. It's a very serious examination. You look great in the uniform. Now, relax, clear your mind, and give it your best shot."

As we step into the mission field, we chance upon Opal and Dan engrossed in conversation. Opal, the esteemed Gym Leader, takes notice and jests, "Ah, there you are, my dear Gym Challenger. Though you are really lacking the color pink..."

"Pink?" I respond, somewhat puzzled by her statement.

Opal elaborates, "See, I am looking for a successor to take on the role of Gym Leader here. So my mission serves as an audition of sorts, too." Sensing my apprehension, she reassures me, "Oh, don't worry. It's simple enough. All you need to do is battle my Trainers and answer the questions they ask along the way."

"Understood," I reply with a nod. Opal continues, "Think carefully before answering, though, child. If you get the wrong answer, the stats of your Pokemon will get lowered. Oh. But if you answer correctly, your Pokemon will get a stat boost. Just think of it as a little Fairy-type Pokemon magic to make things interesting. Now I want you to go all out. Show me what you can do!"

As Opal departs, Dan, the gym guide, chimes in, "Let the Gym Mission commence! Battle with all your skill."

As I step onto the stage, the gym trainer, Annette, initiates our battle. "All right OK. It's time to start your audition to see if you're worthy of becoming the Fairy-Type Gym Leader." She commands her Spritzee and Slurpuff while I send out my Gardevoir and Toxtricity.

Annette poses her question, "Question. Do you know Fairy Type's weakness? Poison or Steel?" The trainer asks.

Confident in my response, I answer, "Both Poison and Steel are weaknesses of Fairy Type."

"Correct," Annette confirms. As a result, both Gardevoir and Toxtricity receive a boost to their Attack and Special Attack, empowering them for the rest of the battle. We engage in a heated duel, eventually emerging victorious. Annette commends our determination, noting, "If you stand your ground with everything you got, it doesn't matter what's right or wrong. I see... I can't say what Ms. Opal will think, but you've at least piqued my interest."

As Annette leaves and the second trainer, Teresa, steps into the arena, she reassures, "I'm the second Trainer. Don't worry about the last question. Let's keep moving forward."

Teresa deploys her Swirlix and Aromatisse while I send out Garbodor and Copperajah for this round. Amidst our battle, Teresa presents her question, "Question, do you remember the previous trainer's name?"

Confidently, I respond, "Yes, her name is Annette." Acknowledging my correct answer, both Garbodor and Copperajah receive a Speed boost, aiding our battle strategy. Despite a fierce duel, our Pokémon manage to triumph. Teresa reflects, "To be cautious and wary - that's the trick to survival. Don't worry about right or wrong. Just keep moving forward."

As the third trainer, Theodora, steps forward, she assesses, "I'm next. I think you might have what it takes to become the Fairy-type Gym Leader."

During our battle against her Morgrem and Gardevoir using Copperajah and Toxtricity, Theodora presents an unexpected question, "Question! What do I eat for breakfast every morning? Curry or Omelets?"

Feeling a bit puzzled, I mutter in disbelief before hazarding a guess, "Omelets?"

Surprisingly, my guess turns out to be correct. This results in a boost to both Copperajah's Defense and Toxtricity's Special Defense, aiding us in swiftly defeating her Pokémon. Theodora comments, "I play a strong trainer. I'm a method actor, so I become a Trainer in real life, too. We should be focusing on the Gym challenge, but Ms. Opal insisted on making this an audition."

After Theodora's departure, our battles in the Gym Mission conclude. Dan, the gym guide, approaches us and remarks, "Oh, the mission has already ended...Well, congratulations on succeeding on the Gym Mission, now I wonder if you've met the standards of the Gym Leader."

As we approach the battlefield, we encounter Opal, the Gym Leader, standing at the center. She acknowledges, "I suppose it's a bit late to introduce myself, but... I'm Opal, the Gym Leader. I've gotten a good look at how you handled those quizzes. The last part of the mission is me... Let me have a look at how you and your partner Pokémon behave!"

The battle commences as Opal sends out her Weezing, prompting me to call upon my Gardevoir for the match. As the Pokémon takes the field, Opal presents a question, "Question! You... Do you know my nickname? The Magic User, or the Wizard?"

Considering the options, I respond, "I'm not sure, the Wizard?"

"Ding ding ding! Congratulations, you're correct," Opal confirms, granting Gardevoir a boost in Speed. However, Weezing's use of Strange Steam leaves Gardevoir confused, and the Toxic attack gets Gardevoir poisoned. Despite the confusion and poisoning, I strategize, "Gardevoir, employ Future Sight!"

While Gardevoir struggles with confusion and attempts to use Swift, Weezing adeptly evades the attack. Yet, just as Future Sight's impending strike nears, Gardevoir manages to snap out of confusion, landing a decisive blow that defeats the Weezing.

The battle intensifies as Opal sends out her Mawile, which swiftly defeats Gardevoir with a powerful Crunch. In response, I send out Cinderace to face the Mawile.

Opal's question catches me off guard, "Question! What is my favorite color?"

Considering her penchant for wanting others to wear pink, I hazard a guess, "Is it pink?"

Opal corrects me, "That's what I like to see in other people, but it's not what I like for myself. My favorite color is Purple." Cinderace's Defense and Special Defense take a hit due to the incorrect answer. Meanwhile, Mawile's attacks, like Astonish, cause Cinderace to continually flinch.

I urge Cinderace, "Use Pyro Ball!" The attack lands successfully, dealing significant damage to Mawile, eventually leading to its defeat despite the challenges posed by flinching throughout the battle. Despite the initial setback, Cinderace managed to emerge victorious through its resilience and powerful moves.

The battle intensifies as Opal calls upon her Togekiss, presenting an unexpected question, "Question! All righty then... How old am I?"

Feeling unsure, I respond, "Um... around 88 years old?"

Opal acknowledges the answer but implies a slight lack of sensitivity, remarking, "Well, you're not wrong. But you could've been a little more sensitive." As a consequence, Cinderace suffers a reduction in Attack and Special Attack stats. Despite its best efforts, Togekiss overwhelms Cinderace with Aura Sphere and Sky Attack, leading to Cinderace's defeat.

Regretful for the loss, I recall Cinderace and send out Copperajah, determined to turn the tide of the battle. Opal acknowledges the choice and commands Togekiss.

"Use Heavy Slam!" I direct Copperajah, who delivers a powerful and crushing blow to Togekiss, ultimately causing it to faint in the battle.

"My morning tea is finally kicking in, and not a moment too soon!" As the intense battle reaches its climax, Opal summons her final Pokémon, a Ruby Cream Alcremie. With determination, she commands, "Use Mystical Fire!"

Copperajah valiantly withstands the attack, but it takes a hit and then succumbs to the subsequent powerful move, Draining Kiss from Alcremie.

"Oh, man...I was counting on Copperajah for the final showdown...Toxtricity, you're my last hope," I declare as I summon my Pokémon. Opting to Gigantamax it, I prepare for the battle ahead. Opal teases, "Are you prepared? I am going to have some fun with this."

"Here it comes..." I mutter under my breath.

Alcremie returns to its Poké Ball, only to emerge as an enormous, towering cake. I'm taken aback, "What? A cake? That's Alcremie's Gigantamax?"

"Use Max Ooze!" I urgently command, hoping for significant damage against Alcremie. However, to my dismay, the attack didn't deal as much damage as expected. Opal taunts, "You lack pink! Here, let us give you some. Use G-Max Finale!"

Alcremie releases three scoops of ice cream, dealing considerable damage to Toxtricity while replenishing its own HP. I express my concern, "Oh no... What power..."

Opal continues, "I hope you like it. Max Overgrowth!" As the move strikes, the field transforms into a grassy terrain. Despite the setback, I urge Toxtricity to remain composed.

"G-Max Stun Shock!" I command. Toxtricity unleashes the move, causing Alcremie to become paralyzed. Capitalizing on the opportunity, I follow up with another Max Ooze attack, aiming to finish the battle.

Opal observes me with a gentle smile and remarks, "Your pink is still lacking, but you're an excellent Trainer with some excellent Pokemon." As I approach her, she continues, "Well, good try. Not bad, not bad at all. Still, not what I am looking for..."

Feeling a bit disappointed, I express my concern, prompting Opal to notice my frown. She reassures me, saying, "Oh, don't worry yourself about it, child. It's just a matter of my preference. I'll find the next gym leader elsewhere."

"I hope so," I respond.

"Too bad for the audition, but here's the Fairy Badge for your efforts." With a gracious nod, Opal awards me the Fairy Badge for my efforts. "Lastly, here's a little something for humoring me. The uniform that you wore. This might help add a little more pink to you!"

I acknowledge her gesture and prepare to leave, but Opal imparts some final words, "Of course it's not good to neglect your elders, but old folk like me should also know when it's time to step out of the spotlight." With that, she bids farewell, leaving me with a sense of respect for her humility and wisdom.

Alice, having observed my battle with Opal, takes her turn to face the Gym Leader. Skilled and well-prepared, she confidently answers all of Opal's questions correctly. Despite her impressive performance, Opal, in her discerning manner, doesn't find Alice to be the candidate she's seeking for the Gym Leader role. Nevertheless, acknowledging Alice's efforts and abilities, Opal graciously awards her the Fairy Badge for her admirable performance in the Gym challenge.

"So, there are three more options for us," Alice says, her gaze flickering between the map and our possibilities. "Steamdrift, Circhester, and Hammerlocke..."

"I'm inclined to try out Steamdrift," I suggest. "Seems like an interesting choice. What do you think?"

Before we finalize our decision, Opal approaches us. "Hold on now. I've got a few errands to run in Hammerlocke. Care to join me for the journey? If you're headed for the next Gym Stadium, you'll need to get to Hammerlocke, too, after all."

"Alright, we'll accompany you," I reply. We decide to assist Opal with her tasks and head towards Hammerlocke, considering it as part of our Gym challenge journey.

Here is a new chapter, and we're done with the 5th gym for Ash and Alice, or the 11th gym in the whole story. I hope you like it and the next chapter will be more Wild Area.

Ash and Alice's Pokemon:

Venusaur, Charizard x2, Blastoise, Butterfree x2 (One Pink), Pikachu, Meowth, Machamp, Ponyta (Galarian), Gengar, Kingler, Koffing, Lapras, Eevee, Snorlax, Meganium, Typhlosion (Hisuian), Espeon, Corsola (Galarian), Mantine, Sceptile, Gardevoir (Shiny), Milotic, Absol, Infernape, Lucario, Abomasnow, Gallade, Samurott, Audino, Garbodor, Zoroark, Stunfisk (Galarian), Greninja, Meowstic x2, Aegislash, Hawlucha, Decidueye, Lycanroc (Dusk), Mimikyu (Shiny), Melmetal, Rillaboom, Cinderace, Inteleon, Greedent, Corvisquire, Orbeetle, Thievul, Eldegoss, Dubwool, Drednaw, Boltund, Coalossal (Shiny), Flapple, Appletun, Sandaconda, Barraskewda, Toxtricity x2 (Amped, Low-Key), Centiskorch, Polteageist (Antique), Hattrem, Morgrem, Obstagoon, Perrserker, Sirfetch'd, Runerigus, Alcremie x9 (Each Flavor), Indeedee x2, Copperajah, Dracozolt, Arctozolt, Dracovish, Arctovish, Dreepy, Kleavor