Rota Town, located north of Mt. Moon, was a city with a medieval aesthetic. The town held annual festivals, where citizens dressed in royal attire, and the celebrations included battle tournaments and formal dances. The winner of the tournament was granted the honorary title of Aura Guardian.
Upon arriving in Rota Town, Klein and Rosa found themselves in the midst of a smaller-scale festival. While this year's event did not include the selection of an Aura Guardian, the town was still buzzing with activity, with its citizens dressed in elegant clothing, reflecting the town's noble heritage and deep-rooted battle traditions.
At the heart of the city, surrounded by a sea of flowers, stood Cameran Castle—the centerpiece of the town.
Klein wore a white cape-style coat, which perfectly complemented Rosa's delicate white lace gown.
This town was semi-autonomous, ruled by Queen Ilene, who resided in Cameran Castle and enjoyed a high degree of independence granted by the Kanto League.
The primary reason for Klein's visit was to evaluate the town's only Gym—Rota Gym, which was located adjacent to Cameran Castle.
Few people were aware that Rota Town even had a Gym, as it typically only accepted challenges from elite trainers with special backgrounds. For passing trainers who wished to challenge it, they were required to present four official Gym Badges and make a reservation at least a month in advance.
While the rules seemed airtight, they were actually a deliberate barrier, designed to discourage casual challengers. Forcing a traveling trainer to wait an entire month just to battle was nothing short of a bureaucratic obstacle.
"A Gym with high arrogance, huh…"
While Klein pondered over this, Rosa was visibly nervous. Despite both Agatha and Klein encouraging her to challenge Rota Gym, the moment she stepped into Rota Town, a deep pressure returned to her chest.
Sensing her unease, Klein handed her a carefully prepared drink. "We'll visit Rota Gym tomorrow. Today, our main priority is to meet with Queen Ilene."
"But… wait—hey, this is actually really good!"
Why does this guy always know exactly what I like to eat and drink?
It's almost like… he knew me before I lost my memory…
A suspicion began to form in Rosa's mind, but she didn't want to dwell on it. Every time she tried to think about her past, her head throbbed painfully. Instead, she shook off the thought and continued exploring the festival with Klein.
—
"You there! Trainer in the white cloak! Care for a battle?"
Rosa's festival attire was specifically designed for the event, making her less recognizable as a trainer. However, Klein's distinguished outfit caught the attention of another trainer, who eagerly stepped forward to issue a challenge.
Some of the bystanders, who recognized Klein, exchanged amused glances.
This guy doesn't realize he just challenged a Kanto Elite Four member…
"Sure."
To everyone's surprise, Klein accepted without hesitation, swiftly retrieving a Poké Ball from his belt.
"Remember, Rosa—when faced with a battle, never back down. You have to face it head-on."
Easy for you to say, you're an Elite Four member!
However, seeing Klein genuinely excited for the match, Rosa decided not to protest and instead moved to the side to observe the battle.
"We'll do a one-on-one battle! I'll be using Plusle!"
The adorable Plusle appeared on the battlefield, immediately cheering as it rubbed its cheeks together excitedly. The crowd erupted in cheers, charmed by the Pokémon's cute appearance.
The tiny Electric-type then hopped forward, eagerly rubbing against both Klein and Rosa before bouncing back to its trainer—instantly increasing its cuteness factor tenfold.
"Alright, I'll use Persian!"
"Plusle, use Nuzzle!"
The small blue Pokémon playfully jumped up, landing in front of Persian, and rubbed its round cheeks against its opponent's face.
Is this… just a cuteness contest?
To everyone's surprise, Persian suddenly froze in place, its entire body numbed as electric currents surged across its fur.
Paralysis had taken effect!
Plusle then flashed a victorious hand gesture, proudly striking a "mission complete" pose.
"Nuzzle isn't a powerful move," Klein noted, "but it has a 100% paralysis chance. Now, follow up with Discharge!"
Persian, already hindered by paralysis, was unable to react in time before Plusle unleashed a powerful electric blast, instantly knocking it out.
"Whoa… that was insanely strong!"
The opposing trainer stared in shock, while Klein casually tossed a treat to his victorious Plusle before recalling it.
"Alright, we've seen enough of the festival. Now, it's time to head to the castle."
—
As an Elite Four member, Klein's arrival in Rota Town had immediately reached the ears of Queen Ilene, who wasted no time sending an electronic invitation.
Since refusing an invitation from royalty would be impolite, Klein had no reason to decline.
After finishing their festival tour, Klein and Rosa made their way to Cameran Castle.
As elegant music played, the castle's grand doors slowly opened, revealing an exquisite hall filled with fresh flowers and warm welcomes—a clear sign of Rota Town's respect for their guests.
Klein wore formal knightly attire, while Rosa's gown radiated an air of nobility.
Their elaborate clothing choices were not out of personal preference, but rather a symbolic gesture—a show of Kanto League's respect toward Rota Town's near-sovereign status.
Walking down a long crimson carpet, Klein and Rosa stepped into the castle's main hall. The scene felt strangely familiar to Klein, as pieces of the Aura Guardian legends from the movie lore resurfaced in his memory.
"Elite Four Klein, you've traveled far. Welcome."
"Thank you for your hospitality."
After a series of formal exchanges, Queen Ilene—seated gracefully upon her throne—smiled warmly. It was evident that she was pleased with Klein's visit.
Wait a minute… is she a fan of his?!
Rosa narrowed her eyes, somewhat suspicious of the Queen's attentive attitude toward Klein.
However, Klein wasn't surprised at all. After the Orange Archipelago battle details were released, the news that Klein owned a Lucario—a Pokémon with deep ties to Rota's royal history—made Queen Ilene naturally inclined to be friendly toward him.
Just as Ilene was about to speak, a sharp female voice interrupted the conversation.
"Elite Four Klein, is it true that you're here to evaluate Rota Gym?"
The woman's tone was challenging, and her words made it clear she did not approve of Klein's involvement.
Although Klein had already guessed her identity, since she had brought up the Gym evaluation so directly, he decided to respond just as bluntly.
(End of Chapter)