Tusk had been too caught up in the moment of devouring the sweetbread that he had failed to notice Scorch's arrival until after the Arcanine's scope of the recruits. The Bagon flinched in awe upon the sound of the guild leader's intimidating tone, fumbling the remaining inch of sweetbread around his small arms before it fell to the ground. Trying to save face in the presence of the legendary figure before them, he quickly swiped the sweetbread from the ground and gulped the rest of it in a single swallow, straightening himself up to stand at attention.
"I-i-it's an honor to meet you, sir!" Tusk did his best to reach up for a respectful gesture in a salute, his words mixed between awe and twitchiness. Scorch really was as eminent and illustrious in person as he was in all of the stories! It was hard to contain his excitement. "I'm Tusk! I'll be the best adventurer you'll ever have, just you see!"
"It's been a while since we've had a serious talk with one another-- actually, I don't think we've ever had one. Needless to say, she probably hates my guts for beating her in the Finals a long time ago, back when she called me her 'bitter rival' and all. Wouldn't blame the girl, since that was the first time I didn't get utterly crushed by her, but I still respect Hestia 'cause of how hard she's always pushed me. I've helped her out a few times, like when she was first becoming a Gym Leader. Tried to refuse and throw me out with the tough girl act, but I know Hestia's a softie inside.
Our battle record? Uh... think it's 6 wins and 11 losses in the lady's favor. Most of those losses came around during the Gym Challenge that one year, but I've closed the gap just a bit recently. Feel like she's always extra mad at me for some reason, though."
"Z's a swell lad, good to his friends and even better to his Pokemon, makes me proud to know 'im. I'll never forget his miracle run during the Gym Challenge and Champion's Cup a few years back; poor guy was stuck at several points all throughout the event. Even after losing a bunch of times, Z kept comin' back at it to the point where he even made it to the end against Victoria. Damn thing reminds me of my own run almost ten years ago.
Maybe when it's all said and done, our numbers' hangin' up on the rafters and we're old men, I'll ask Z what he thinks 'bout startin' up a band. Ha!"
"The Man o' Steel, hmm? Honestly have no idea where he came from, kinda just showed up outta nowhere, but... I respect the gig that he's grown for himself. I may or may not have a bit of his merch sittin' at home, or watch reruns of his show while I'm flyin' about. Too bad he's about as hard to reach as I am, these days. I'm sure there's more to him beneath all that shiny armor."
"You'd think our residential Dragon-type specialist would be as flamboyant and annoying as someone like Hestia, but from what I've seen, Moira's quite the opposite. She's like every bit of a living, breathing knight from a page in those ancient books down in Hammerlocke's Vault, almost brings the Man o' Steel's image to shame. I'd try to have a good talk with the lady, but I'm kinda afraid that I'll come off too direct and frighten her. Lord knows that her dragons already do enough scary shit to the lot of us in battle."
"What can I say? Fiona's probably the only person among everybody that I can confidently say that I'm friends with. Maybe she has an idea on why I packed my bags and gave up Motostoke, maybe not. I try to make it a point to share a drink with her when available, and Pops goes on social media thinkin' she's the one for me. Just because he's obsessed with Flying-types, she happens to be a specialist, and I used 'em as a kid. No thanks-- I wouldn't wish me upon anyone, hah. To be honest, I'm a bit jealous with how carefree and unburdened she seems to be. I know it's hypocritical 'cause I willingly throw meself into all the work, but... sometimes I feel like I tied her hands when I passed all that responsibility onto her.
Back then, I heard some fans in Motostoke tried to harass Fiona after I left 'cause they didn't want her to take over, tryin' to spread some bad rumors... Some balderdash, that. Of course, I was more than obliged to shut 'em up; I'll always have her back, so I figure she'd have mine."
"Grumpy one. You'd have me convinced if you told me Nordrin spits in your food before servin' it if he doesn't like you. (Don't tell 'im I said that.) That being said, being a prestigious chef that came from the bottom, you're bound to be a no-nonsense kinda lad. If fancy titles were the name of the game, he'd take the cake, no pun intended... but I've dealt with my share of pretentious people over the years, and I wouldn't mind knockin' down another one by a peg like a real trainer does. I can tolerate 'im otherwise at least, from one workaholic to another."
"The only guy who doesn't make me feel like a midget around the others, and yet, I'm still a small fry in comparison. 'Bout as arrogant as Nordrin, except he's got muscles instead of a frying pan. I wouldn't be surprised if he held a grudge against me for all the times I've beaten him, but I don't think he's the kind of musclehead that people make him out to be. I've seen him ponder to himself in deep thought sometimes, it's almost like lookin' at a completely different person."
"Doesn't give himself enough credit for how good he is of a trainer. If you ask me, I feel like Thomas is handicappin' himself, given how wicked smart the lad is. I feel like he and I could connect on a few similar bases, but we just happen to never be available for a chat; he's busy when I'm not, and I'm busy when he ain't. I'm sure that we'd be pretty good friends, though. Takes great care of Pokemon and the environment, something I really admire."
"It's kinda scary how laser-focused the guy is, not just in battles but outside of 'em too. Don't underestimate Eli just 'cause he's only got 'vanilla' Normal-types; you're guaranteed to have a bad time, and he'll even give you an essay on why you got trounced. Trust me when I say that I know from personal experience. He's worked just as hard than almost everyone else, if not more than some, to get to where he's at now, and in such a short time span too. If I'd known him sooner and hadn't given the gym to Fiona, then I'll bet Eli would've been sittin' in Motostoke instead."
"Everyone seems like they've got some connection to the other regions, huh. I only know Miss Durand a bit loosely, not even sure if she ever partook in the Gym Challenge here in Galar, but I think we're all in for a real surprise with her. She's got the spunk in her confidence that Hestia wishes she had, and she isn't a sore loser after losin' a battle. I think of her as an 'Ace Trainer' of sorts. She's also got a great fashion sense; her mum works for one of the boutique stores that I go to, and bein' in the same industry, she probably knows my mum as well. She's cute."
"He's an interesting character, fits the archetype of a Fairy-type specialist down to the molecule. I'm very glad to have someone like Liam as a part of our league, someone who isn't afraid to be themselves even if there's a handful of idiots who think he's weird or something. Guy's the sweetest person I know, and it ain't even close; always puts a smile on my face when I see 'im. Sad to admit, but my mum's said that Liam's her favorite Gym Leader. I'm sure he could be even better if he didn't worry so much about findin' a boyfriend, but who am I kiddin'."
"The newest face of the bunch. Don't know her a whole lot, but I know not to underestimate someone, even if they're who I'd consider a a newbie. Fangs might be sharp but I've yet to see 'em bite. I think she's a friend of Hestia's? Would explain why they're a bit similar in that regard. Sometimes I feel like I've done something to offend her with how she looks at me, but I thought I was just bein' nice when offerin' some help. Oh well, hopefully I'll get to know Isla a bit better beyond that awkward first year."
OCCUPATION: Minor League Gym Leader (current), Major League Gym Leader (former) Flying Taxi Cabbie / Postman
GYM TYPE: Psychic
HAIR COLOR: Golden
EYE COLOR: Saffron
HEIGHT: 6'0
COMPLEXION: Fair
BODY COMPOSITION: Fit
OTHER: Speaks with a Cockney accent.
PERSONALITY: Malik has always tried to maintain a lower profile despite what his reputation as a renowned Pokemon Trainer may suggest. He isn't necessarily meek or timid; rather, he exudes a calm and level-headed demeanor. With quiet confidence and swagger, he isn't one to boast his own victories; it's only the thrill of a real challenge that can ignite the true passion that lays dormant from having few worthy adversaries. He likes to mentor Gym Challengers and trainers across all levels of experience, sharing this dedication with his affinity and adoration for nurturing Pokemon.
He is known as a reliable busybody among the higher authorities of the region, often undertaking responsibilities and running important errands for people such as the Pokemon Professor, Gym Leaders, and the Pokemon League, should they call on him. Malik likes to note this as a favor done for the petitioner, and always finishes by saying that he expects repayment of some kind in the future; whether he isn't being serious or always forgets about it is a mystery. But, adding to this, he is notoriously difficult to reach at times, even reported to be absent from his stadium during periods of scheduled challenges.
It's rumored that Malik can communicate with Pokemon telepathically.
BIOGRAPHY
Malik Harvey hails from the quieter boondocks of the Galar Region, born and raised in a small homestead in Wedgehurst. He is one of six children in his humble family; his father is a former police officer who retired early to become a cabbie for the Galar Taxi company, while his mother is a model who owns the Wedgehurst Boutique Store. The previous generations of his family name were mostly small-time Pokemon Trainers who found little to no interest or success in the region's Gym Challenge, and in the boy's early years, it appeared that Malik would share that same lack of ambition. His parents were more pressed on raising hard-working, intelligent children that would grow up to oversee what they considered to be the more important matters of the world, and generally discouraged them from 'wasting time' with the adventurous life of a Pokemon Trainer.
Malik and his siblings were always around Pokemon in their childhood, raising and working alongside them on their family's farmland. He was unaware that Pokemon were capable of battling against one another in an organized fashion until, at the age of nine, his oldest brother asked their parents to take them to the Motostoke Stadium to watch a Gym Challenge in person. The impressionable boy was captivated by the energy of the audience and the atmosphere created by the Dynamax phenomena, becoming fixated on the idea of becoming as strong of a Trainer as the Gym Leader was.
Alongside his siblings, he would spend the next few years working up the favor of his parents, saving up his earned allowances and maintaining top marks in his education. By the eve of his fourteenth birthday, after a series of back and forth, the teenager managed to convince them with his resolve, earning the full cooperation of his father. In dedication to the latter, Malik initially specialized in Flying-type Pokemon when he began to focus on adjusting to the new life and venturing across the Galar region. He spent the next year preparing himself for the Gym Challenge, and after becoming a full-fledged trainer with some merit by the end, he earned an endorsement from the Galar Taxi Company with the help of his father.
Unfortunately, while Malik had a natural affinity when it came to Pokemon, he and his Flying-types fell short of completing the Gym Challenge that year, mired with defeat before even scratching the surface of the Champion's Cup. He took the loss hard, contemplating on giving up on his dream before ultimately deciding to make another run in the next year to come. He spent much of the offseason in exploration, hoping to expand and strengthen his team further. During one of his Wild Area excursions by the Motostoke Riverbank, a strange voice broke into his mind, crying for help from the water below the bridge. He answered the plea without question, rescuing a Hatenna that had been drowning after accidentally stumbling into the river.
Malik was confused as to how he'd heard the Hatenna's voice, but as the wild Pokemon sought to follow him after its rescue unlike any other instance, he decided to foster the small one as his own. Over time, he found himself growing more attached to the Hatenna, and strangely enough, he began encountering more and more Psychic-type Pokemon. He took this as a sign to shift his specialty away from Flying-types, and began to build up his team from square one. This would prove to be a wise decision, as his next two years of Gym Challenges proved to be largely successes. He claimed all eight badges both times with relative ease, only managing to falter in the semifinal rounds of the Champion's Cup.
By eighteen years old, Malik was considered a favorite contender to win it all versus the Champion, now endorsed by the Motostoke Gym Leader that he'd watched as a kid. Though, he would be met with resistance in a lone competitor who had deemed him to be their rival. Throughout the Gym Challenge, he would suffer more losses than victory against them, but when their rivalry would come to a head during the Finals of the Champion's Cup, he managed a narrow victory against them. He sought to carry this momentum in full swing for the title match against the Champion, but was dealt a convincing defeat after only managing to knock out half of their team.
Though Malik had fallen short of grasping the title for himself, his prowess had impressed the Champion so much that he was nominated to become the next Gym Leader of Motostoke City. He graciously accepted the unexpected offer, and would become known as one of the harder Gym Challenges that trainers would have to go through. He continued to partake in the Champion's Cup each year to try and snag the title, but in the end, he would always be thwarted by the Champion if he wasn't beaten in the previous rounds.
Malik served as the Gym Leader of Motostoke City for a good seven years before suddenly announcing his intention to pass on the responsibility to another worthy candidate. He had the intention of opening up a Minor Gym in his hometown of Wedgehurst, receiving funds and approval from the [Rose Company placeholder]. He wanted to embolden the dreams and resolve of aspiring trainers instead of hinder them, opening his Minor League Gym on the hill that overlooked Wedgehurst. Its purpose aimed to mentor and hone Pokemon Trainers of all skill ranges, primarily for those without official endorsement for the traditional Major League Gym Challenge.
Alongside his father, Malik also became a licensed Flying Taxi cabbie and postman, doing so as a hobby when he isn't preoccupied by other responsibilities. He did not partake in the Champion's Cup for those two years, opting to remain outside of the limelight despite the difficulty of not being recognized. He regularly ran errands and favors for the Gym Leaders and other important individuals, also occasionally finding the time to visit and explore other regions. But, now he's become directly involved once more after the disappearance of his old friend.
His personal team for the Champion's Cup and serious battles.
Espeon ♀ - 'Lady' - Psychic Gallade ♂ - 'Sheen' - Psychic / Fighting Reuniclus ♂ - 'Apex' - Psychic The first pillar of Malik's team Metagross - 'Nickel' - Steel / Psychic The second pillar of Malik's team, Nickel maintains the calmness that his trainer exudes. It is his bulkiest, heaviest-hitting Pokemon among the six, Malamar ♀ - 'River' - Dark / Psychic Cruel and violent in battle, but a complete goofball outside of it. River will only hypnotize people that it can sense irritation from within Malik, and command them to do or say embarrassing things as a joke. She is Malik's pivot and secret weapon in battle, most often catching unprepared challengers off guard. (Gigantamax) Hatterene ♀ - 'Noel' - Psychic / Fairy Malik's Ace Pokemon that he rescued over ten years ago when she was still a Hatenna. Noel is solitary and reclusive towards all others besides her trainer, and won't hesitate to cause headaches in those who approach. Overall, she is the strongest among all of his team, and possesses the Gigantamax Factor.
"The atmosphere of this stadium, the way that the crowd's chants match the beating of your heart... Everybody's gotta start somewhere, right? So, Gym Challenger-- earn this moment, here and now!" His Gym Challenge team versus beginner-level Pokemon Trainers with little experience / few to no badges.
"Been doin' this for a while now, guv; I'll admit, I've seen plenty o' faces like yours pass by. Tread carefully, Gym Challenger, or my team and I might just read into your mind!" His Gym Challenge team versus intermediate-level Pokemon Trainers with some experience / many or few badges.
"So you've made it this far, Gym Challenger! Must say I'm impressed. Now, try to make it all worth my time. You'll have no hope of overcoming the Champion if you're stuck with me!" His Gym Challenge team versus expert-level Pokemon Trainers with lots of experience / lots or many badges.
"It's been a while since we've had a serious talk with one another-- actually, I don't think we've ever had one. Needless to say, she probably hates my guts for beating her in the Finals a long time ago, back when she called me her 'bitter rival' and all. Wouldn't blame the girl, since that was the first time I didn't get utterly crushed by her, but I still respect Hestia 'cause of how hard she's always pushed me. I've helped her out a few times, like when she was first becoming a Gym Leader. Tried to refuse and throw me out with the tough girl act, but I know Hestia's a softie inside.
Our battle record? Uh... think it's 6 wins and 11 losses in the lady's favor. Most of those losses came around during the Gym Challenge that one year, but I've closed the gap just a bit recently. Feel like she's always extra mad at me for some reason, though."
"Z's a swell lad, good to his friends and even better to his Pokemon, makes me proud to know 'im. I'll never forget his miracle run during the Gym Challenge and Champion's Cup a few years back; poor guy was stuck at several points all throughout the event. Even after losing a bunch of times, Z kept comin' back at it to the point where he even made it to the end against Victoria. Damn thing reminds me of my own run almost ten years ago.
Maybe when it's all said and done, our numbers' hangin' up on the rafters and we're old men, I'll ask Z what he thinks 'bout startin' up a band. Ha!"
"The Man o' Steel, hmm? Honestly have no idea where he came from, kinda just showed up outta nowhere, but... I respect the gig that he's grown for himself. I may or may not have a bit of his merch sittin' at home, or watch reruns of his show while I'm flyin' about. Too bad he's about as hard to reach as I am, these days. I'm sure there's more to him beneath all that shiny armor."
"You'd think our residential Dragon-type specialist would be as flamboyant and annoying as someone like Hestia, but from what I've seen, Moira's quite the opposite. She's like every bit of a living, breathing knight from a page in those ancient books down in Hammerlocke's Vault, almost brings the Man o' Steel's image to shame. I'd try to have a good talk with the lady, but I'm kinda afraid that I'll come off too direct and frighten her. Lord knows that her dragons already do enough scary shit to the lot of us in battle."
"What can I say? Fiona's probably the only person among everybody that I can confidently say that I'm friends with. Maybe she has an idea on why I packed my bags and gave up Motostoke, maybe not. I try to make it a point to share a drink with her when available, and Pops goes on social media thinkin' she's the one for me. Just because he's obsessed with Flying-types, she happens to be a specialist, and I used 'em as a kid. No thanks-- I wouldn't wish me upon anyone, hah. To be honest, I'm a bit jealous with how carefree and unburdened she seems to be. I know it's hypocritical 'cause I willingly throw meself into all the work, but... sometimes I feel like I tied her hands when I passed all that responsibility onto her.
Back then, I heard some fans in Motostoke tried to harass Fiona after I left 'cause they didn't want her to take over, tryin' to spread some bad rumors... Some balderdash, that. Of course, I was more than obliged to shut 'em up; I'll always have her back, so I figure she'd have mine."
"Grumpy one. You'd have me convinced if you told me Nordrin spits in your food before servin' it if he doesn't like you. (Don't tell 'im I said that.) That being said, being a prestigious chef that came from the bottom, you're bound to be a no-nonsense kinda lad. If fancy titles were the name of the game, he'd take the cake, no pun intended... but I've dealt with my share of pretentious people over the years, and I wouldn't mind knockin' down another one by a peg like a real trainer does. I can tolerate 'im otherwise at least, from one workaholic to another."
"The only guy who doesn't make me feel like a midget around the others, and yet, I'm still a small fry in comparison. 'Bout as arrogant as Nordrin, except he's got muscles instead of a frying pan. I wouldn't be surprised if he held a grudge against me for all the times I've beaten him, but I don't think he's the kind of musclehead that people make him out to be. I've seen him ponder to himself in deep thought sometimes, it's almost like lookin' at a completely different person."
"Doesn't give himself enough credit for how good he is of a trainer. If you ask me, I feel like Thomas is handicappin' himself, given how wicked smart the lad is. I feel like he and I could connect on a few similar bases, but we just happen to never be available for a chat; he's busy when I'm not, and I'm busy when he ain't. I'm sure that we'd be pretty good friends, though. Takes great care of Pokemon and the environment, something I really admire."
"It's kinda scary how laser-focused the guy is, not just in battles but outside of 'em too. Don't underestimate Eli just 'cause he's only got 'vanilla' Normal-types; you're guaranteed to have a bad time, and he'll even give you an essay on why you got trounced. Trust me when I say that I know from personal experience. He's worked just as hard than almost everyone else, if not more than some, to get to where he's at now, and in such a short time span too. If I'd known him sooner and hadn't given the gym to Fiona, then I'll bet Eli would've been sittin' in Motostoke instead."
"Everyone seems like they've got some connection to the other regions, huh. I only know Miss Durand a bit loosely, not even sure if she ever partook in the Gym Challenge here in Galar, but I think we're all in for a real surprise with her. She's got the spunk in her confidence that Hestia wishes she had, and she isn't a sore loser after losin' a battle. I think of her as an 'Ace Trainer' of sorts. She's also got a great fashion sense; her mum works for one of the boutique stores that I go to, and bein' in the same industry, she probably knows my mum as well. She's cute."
"He's an interesting character, fits the archetype of a Fairy-type specialist down to the molecule. I'm very glad to have someone like Liam as a part of our league, someone who isn't afraid to be themselves even if there's a handful of idiots who think he's weird or something. Guy's the sweetest person I know, and it ain't even close; always puts a smile on my face when I see 'im. Sad to admit, but my mum's said that Liam's her favorite Gym Leader. I'm sure he could be even better if he didn't worry so much about findin' a boyfriend, but who am I kiddin'."
"The newest face of the bunch. Don't know her a whole lot, but I know not to underestimate someone, even if they're who I'd consider a a newbie. Fangs might be sharp but I've yet to see 'em bite. I think she's a friend of Hestia's? Would explain why they're a bit similar in that regard. Sometimes I feel like I've done something to offend her with how she looks at me, but I thought I was just bein' nice when offerin' some help. Oh well, hopefully I'll get to know Isla a bit better beyond that awkward first year."
OCCUPATION: Minor League Gym Leader (current), Major League Gym Leader (former) Flying Taxi Cabbie / Postman
GYM TYPE: Psychic
HAIR COLOR: Golden
EYE COLOR: Saffron
HEIGHT: 6'0
COMPLEXION: Fair
BODY COMPOSITION: Fit
OTHER: Speaks with a Cockney accent.
PERSONALITY: Malik has always tried to maintain a lower profile despite what his reputation as a renowned Pokemon Trainer may suggest. He isn't necessarily meek or timid; rather, he exudes a calm and level-headed demeanor. With quiet confidence and swagger, he isn't one to boast his own victories; it's only the thrill of a real challenge that can ignite the true passion that lays dormant from having few worthy adversaries. He likes to mentor Gym Challengers and trainers across all levels of experience, sharing this dedication with his affinity and adoration for nurturing Pokemon.
He is known as a reliable busybody among the higher authorities of the region, often undertaking responsibilities and running important errands for people such as the Pokemon Professor, Gym Leaders, and the Pokemon League, should they call on him. Malik likes to note this as a favor done for the petitioner, and always finishes by saying that he expects repayment of some kind in the future; whether he isn't being serious or always forgets about it is a mystery. But, adding to this, he is notoriously difficult to reach at times, even reported to be absent from his stadium during periods of scheduled challenges.
It's rumored that Malik can communicate with Pokemon telepathically.
BIOGRAPHY
Malik Harvey hails from the quieter boondocks of the Galar Region, born and raised in a small homestead in Wedgehurst. He is one of six children in his humble family; his father is a former police officer who retired early to become a cabbie for the Galar Taxi company, while his mother is a model who owns the Wedgehurst Boutique Store. The previous generations of his family name were mostly small-time Pokemon Trainers who found little to no interest or success in the region's Gym Challenge, and in the boy's early years, it appeared that Malik would share that same lack of ambition. His parents were more pressed on raising hard-working, intelligent children that would grow up to oversee what they considered to be the more important matters of the world, and generally discouraged them from 'wasting time' with the adventurous life of a Pokemon Trainer.
Malik and his siblings were always around Pokemon in their childhood, raising and working alongside them on their family's farmland. He was unaware that Pokemon were capable of battling against one another in an organized fashion until, at the age of nine, his oldest brother asked their parents to take them to the Motostoke Stadium to watch a Gym Challenge in person. The impressionable boy was captivated by the energy of the audience and the atmosphere created by the Dynamax phenomena, becoming fixated on the idea of becoming as strong of a Trainer as the Gym Leader was.
Alongside his siblings, he would spend the next few years working up the favor of his parents, saving up his earned allowances and maintaining top marks in his education. By the eve of his fourteenth birthday, after a series of back and forth, the teenager managed to convince them with his resolve, earning the full cooperation of his father. In dedication to the latter, Malik initially specialized in Flying-type Pokemon when he began to focus on adjusting to the new life and venturing across the Galar region. He spent the next year preparing himself for the Gym Challenge, and after becoming a full-fledged trainer with some merit by the end, he earned an endorsement from the Galar Taxi Company with the help of his father.
Unfortunately, while Malik had a natural affinity when it came to Pokemon, he and his Flying-types fell short of completing the Gym Challenge that year, mired with defeat before even scratching the surface of the Champion's Cup. He took the loss hard, contemplating on giving up on his dream before ultimately deciding to make another run in the next year to come. He spent much of the offseason in exploration, hoping to expand and strengthen his team further. During one of his Wild Area excursions by the Motostoke Riverbank, a strange voice broke into his mind, crying for help from the water below the bridge. He answered the plea without question, rescuing a Hatenna that had been drowning after accidentally stumbling into the river.
Malik was confused as to how he'd heard the Hatenna's voice, but as the wild Pokemon sought to follow him after its rescue unlike any other instance, he decided to foster the small one as his own. Over time, he found himself growing more attached to the Hatenna, and strangely enough, he found himself encountering more and more Psychic-type Pokemon. He took this as a sign to shift his specialty away from Flying-types, and began to build up his team from square one. This would prove to be a wise decision, as his next two years of Gym Challenges proved to be largely successes. He claimed all eight badges both times with relative ease, only managing to falter in the semifinal rounds of the Champion's Cup.
By eighteen years old, Malik was considered a favorite contender to win it all versus the Champion, now endorsed by the Motostoke Gym Leader that he'd watched as a kid. Though, he would be met with resistance in a lone competitor who had deemed him to be their rival. Throughout the Gym Challenge, he would suffer more losses than victory against them, but when their rivalry would come to a head during the Finals of the Champion's Cup, he managed a narrow victory against them. He sought to carry this momentum in full swing for the title match against the Champion, but was dealt a convincing defeat after only managing to knock out half of their team.
Though Malik had fallen short of grasping the title for himself, his prowess had impressed the Champion so much that he was nominated to become the next Gym Leader of Motostoke City. He graciously accepted the unexpected offer, and would become known as one of the harder Gym Challenges that trainers would have to go through. He continued to partake in the Champion's Cup each year to try and snag the title, but in the end, he would always be thwarted by the Champion if he wasn't beaten in the previous rounds.
Malik served as the Gym Leader of Motostoke City for a good seven years before suddenly announcing his intention to pass on the responsibility to another worthy candidate. He had the intention of opening up a Minor Gym in his hometown of Wedgehurst, receiving funds and approval from the [Rose Company placeholder]. He wanted to embolden the dreams and resolve of aspiring trainers instead of hinder them, opening his Minor League Gym on the hill that overlooked Wedgehurst. Its purpose aimed to mentor and hone Pokemon Trainers of all skill ranges, primarily for those without official endorsement for the traditional Major League Gym Challenge.
Alongside his father, Malik also became a licensed Flying Taxi cabbie and postman, doing so as a hobby when he isn't preoccupied by other responsibilities. He did not partake in the Champion's Cup for those two years, opting to remain outside of the limelight despite the difficulty of not being recognized. He regularly ran errands and favors for the Gym Leaders and other important individuals, also occasionally finding the time to visit and explore other regions. But, now he's become directly involved once more after the disappearance of his old friend.
His personal team for the Champion's Cup and serious battles.
It felt surreal that Tusk was standing before Scorch's illustrious Guild Headquarters, his eyes beaming in awe as he gleamed the numerous banners that decorated the building. His cheeks puffed out as he brought his small arms up to press into his face, trying to shake off all of the nerves that he felt. He'd made sure to run and complete all of his daily errands for his family early in the morning, and left his father under the impression that he'd went off for extra training at the Arena. There was no telling how his father would react if he'd been discovered, but it was too late for worrying; becoming an adventurer on a rescue team was the only thing on his mind.
There seemed to be a number of similar-minded, aspiring Pokemon that were interested in the recruitment drive, but nobody that he recognized in particular. His family resided in one of the quieter neighborhoods in Cloudgate, and the nature of their species tended to be more reclusive. Tusk lagged behind the prospective crowd as they individually filtered into the building, jittery with excitement; he was ready to complete whatever assessment that would be asked of him in order to be welcomed into the guild. 'It starts now,' he told himself. 'I'll be a hero like my dad was!'
Though Tusk was having a hard time finding a spot to loiter, the scent of sweetbread wafted into his nose, luring him to the basket that belonged to a Buneary. "U-um," the Bagon's eyes were conflicted, showing resistance as his arm reached out. Eventually, he caved in, accepting a loaf of sweetbread and munching on it gratefully. "Thanks!"
Appearance: Mostly resembles the usual Bagon, but his skin tone leans towards a darker blue-green as opposed to a solid blue. The three gray ridges that cover the top of his head are also slightly smaller than normal.
Personality: Tusk isn't exactly the sharpest tool in the shed. Some of his approaches to conversation can sound more like confrontations rather than small talk, as he tends to speak rather directly and loudly. He doesn't go out of his way to make hostilities, but almost always prefers to resolve any problems with his own sort of diplomacy: bashing things in with his head. He will not hesitate to charge face first into the fray, and looks to live up to his father's legacy to, one day, be able to soar the skies. That being said, despite his daring attempts to look heroic, this Hasty nature can cause a world of trouble for missions with concrete plans. He trains everyday to meet his self-imposed steep expectations, and dislikes slackers of any magnitude.
Short Biography: Tusk was closely nurtured by his parents since early childhood as their second youngest child of four. He was rather insecure throughout his younger years, as he was often teased by his siblings for being the smallest one. He always looked up to his father, Skiff, a Salamence who had been a senior member of Scorch's Guild in the past before striking an early retirement after an incident led to his permanent inability to use his wings. While Skiff wanted his children to forage different paths in fear that they would suffer the same fate, Tusk was regaled by the enamored tales of his father's strength as a fighter and fame as an adventurer, wanting to make more out of his sheltered life in Cloudgate.
Though he was terrified from the stories of the Shade, Tusk felt that he belonged in the way of those who would help others affected by it, much to the chagrin of his family. He began to train every day by honing the sheer force behind his head, though it was done so in secrecy, for his father did not support it in the slightest. He would still lose out in scuffles against his older siblings, but only took those losses as more reason to smash large rocks every day. When the wind brought news of the legendary Scorch's return, he would go to seek out the recruitment drive for the exploration team against his father's wishes.
Move Set:
Headbutt
Bite
Rage
Leer
Equipment: N/A
Other: Tusk loves to be pet/nuzzled along his snout, but he refuses to admit or allow it.
Appearance: Mostly resembles the usual Bagon, but his skin tone leans towards a darker blue-green as opposed to a solid blue. The three gray ridges that cover the top of his head are also slightly smaller than normal.
Personality: Tusk isn't exactly the sharpest tool in the shed. Some of his approaches to conversation can sound more like confrontations rather than small talk, as he tends to speak rather directly and loudly. He doesn't go out of his way to make hostilities, but almost always prefers to resolve any problems with his own sort of diplomacy: bashing things in with his head. He will not hesitate to charge face first into the fray, and looks to live up to his father's legacy to, one day, be able to soar the skies. That being said, despite his daring attempts to look heroic, this Hasty nature can cause a world of trouble for missions with concrete plans. He trains everyday to meet his self-imposed steep expectations, and dislikes slackers of any magnitude.
Short Biography: Tusk was closely nurtured by his parents since early childhood as their second youngest child of four. He was rather insecure throughout his younger years, as he was often teased by his siblings for being the smallest one. He always looked up to his father, Skiff, a Salamence who had been a senior member of Scorch's Guild in the past before striking an early retirement after an incident led to his permanent inability to use his wings. While Skiff wanted his children to forage different paths in fear that they would suffer the same fate, Tusk was regaled by the enamored tales of his father's strength as a fighter and fame as an adventurer, wanting to make more out of his sheltered life in Cloudgate.
Though he was terrified from the stories of the Shade, Tusk felt that he belonged in the way of those who would help others affected by it, much to the chagrin of his family. He began to train every day by honing the sheer force behind his head, though it was done so in secrecy, for his father did not support it in the slightest. He would still lose out in scuffles against his older siblings, but only took those losses as more reason to smash large rocks every day. When the wind brought news of the legendary Scorch's return, he would go to seek out the recruitment drive for the exploration team against his father's wishes.
Move Set:
Headbutt
Bite
Rage
Leer
Equipment: N/A
Other: Tusk loves to be pet/nuzzled along his snout, but he refuses to admit or allow it.
I love Dragon Pokemon a ton, and Bagon was the first Shiny Pokemon that I ever encountered and caught. Also Bagon is really cute.
Thursday - April 18th, 2019 Hallways of Hyakusawa Academy
"Kohaku-senpai, am I in trouble? Please don't tell me-"
"Stop being a pain in the ass."
Minase Kohaku hated the difficult ones. They would never immediately listen to his direction, which wasted more of his time; he had better places to be than the school, after all, and the faster that the boy could see his quarry to the student council room, the sooner he could leave. Even if it was Gamma who always issued the requests, there were obviously plenty of reasons why the student council president would want to meet an individual student besides being in trouble. Over the years, he'd noticed how much Gamma truly cared about the school and its population that frankly, he couldn't see how it was even possible. He always made a point to sit down with every single student at least twice each year, discussing subjects ranging from any personal troubles to academic futures; it was all for the sake of their own good, after all. It was something that Minase respected from his best friend; meeting all those people took a hell of a lot of time and energy, something that he would've found too exhausting. He heard enough whining at the arcade and his work, anyway.
Of course, this distinction was something that these first-years wouldn't know. The moment that they heard 'student council president' was when they began to write their own insecurities. Minase dropped his shoulders with an agitated sigh, digging into his pocket for a notepad that contained a list of names that were crossed out except for the last one. Class 1-D, first-year, Sasaki Tohru... short girl with black hair. His vision darted between the scribbled note and the student before turning away from her, motioning the girl to come along. "Just... follow me, Sasaki-chan."
As he looked through the corner of his eye, Minase was relieved to see that Tohru was finally cooperating, albeit still reluctantly from the way she quaked in her steps. 'Smooth,' he buried both hands and sarcasm into his pockets, keeping to himself as he could feel a dozen eyes watch them turn down the hallway.
"Kohaku Minase?" "That's the Warden?" "He's kinda scary looking..." "I hear Nishimura-senpai makes him beat people up!" "A delinquent in the student council?" "Don't get in his way." "Shh!! ..or you're next!"
He didn't give a shit about what small talk and rumors other people tried to spread. His student council duties were one of the few things that Minase enjoyed; it was only Gamma and the others who truly cared about him, who truly accepted him. People enforced his image as the Warden of Hyakusawa Academy like it was a bad thing, yet if it was to uphold his best friends' virtues, he would gladly embrace that title. Ensuring that Tohru was still following him, they were eventually met by the warm smile of the student council president.
Very eloquently dressed beyond ordinary student standards, Nishimura Gamma stood a few inches shorter than him, roughly average in height. His features were well-sculpted and handsome, his neatly-combed black hair just shy of falling over dark blue eyes. His complexion was naturally darker compared to most, nearly considered exotic in that regard. Every aspect of his best friend's appearance screamed student council president. "You've done such a good favor for me, Minase. As always, I apologize for putting this responsibility on you."
"For you, it's no problem," Minase stepped off to the side to allow Tohru to come forward, seeing Gamma study the girl intently before looking back up to him in the ensuing awkward silence. "Well, uh... I'll leave you to the meeting. Smell ya tomorrow, Gamma."
Just before the boy could start towards the stairway, Minase felt a surprisingly firm hand plant down onto his shoulder, stopping him in his tracks. "Before you leave," the hushed voice of the student council president lingered close to his ear in a whisper. "For tomorrow..."
Friday - April 19th, 2019 Hallways of Hyakusawa Academy
Class was always a hit or miss for him. Depending on the content of the subject, Minase was only truly invested in their History teacher's lessons; on the flip side, he did not welcome the migraines that Mathematics wrought upon him. His grades weren't even too bad for someone who was as disinterested and allergic to studying as he was, and more often than not, he found himself being scolded by the faculty for not applying himself. The boy just didn't see a point to all of it if he was just going to end up competing with others for the chance of having a future, anyway.
When the time finally came for their dismissal, Minase was the first to gather his belongings and shuffle out of the classroom. Though, instead of throwing himself into the downpour, the boy perched his back against the wall parallel to the classroom's doorway, pulling out the notepad to see who he was looking for.
CLASS 2-D, SECOND-YEAR, CHIHARA SEIYA - BLACK HAIR WITH GRAY EYES
Chihara Seiya was in the same class as he was, though the boy only knew her by name and the fact that she was a rather quiet girl that his classmates often sought assistance from with their schoolwork. To Gamma's surprise, Minase didn't even know what she looked like other than his fairly useless notes. Just about every other girl has black hair, you dumbass. A finger tapped against his temple as the boy carefully looked over each person who exited the classroom, drawing an exasperated sigh before opting to call off his search for the day. The notepad in his hand cycled with a cell phone, tossing a quick text message to Gamma about postponing the meeting for tomorrow before watching a certain someone bump into a girl at the doorway.
"Don't scare off another student, please. The student council already has enough problems to squash." Minase chided in the direction of the half-blooded offender, shaking his head with disgust towards Kenichi Richards before disappearing down the stairwell. He was not particularly fond of the other boy, in part of their heritage but mostly from their history of causing trouble. With the thought starting to get on his nerves, Minase plugged in his earphones, shifting his mind to ponder on which arcade he would go to for the afternoon.
Member
Marlowe
Fetzen
Scrawl Banditta
