I took on Clemont, the gym leader of Lumiose City, and the battle went smoothly. Marowak proved his worth by crushing Emolga with Rock Tomb and then wiping out both Heliolisk and Magneton using Bonemerang, leaving Clemont with no answers. With another badge earned, I continued my journey toward Laverre Town. Along the way, I caught a Carnivine to add to my growing collection.

At Laverre, I faced Valerie, the enchanting Fairy-type gym leader—I couldn’t help but think I wouldn’t mind serving as her footrest with the way she carried herself. In battle, however, I stayed focused. Talonflame incinerated Mawile with Flame Charge, and then I brought out Blastoise, mega evolving him to power through Mr. Mime with a devastating Surf. Finally, Toxicroak tried to bring down Sylveon with Venoshock, but Sylveon proved too resilient. I had to switch back to Mega Blastoise, who finished the battle with another powerful Surf.

Afterward, I discovered Team Flare attempting to raid the Poké Ball Factory. I put a stop to their scheme and chased them away, though I couldn’t shake the feeling that their true plans were building toward something much bigger. Leaving Laverre behind, I made my way to Dendemille Town, catching a mischievous little Klefki on the way.