[Video]

[whateveryoueatliveitspart]

[The video opens on the Lake of Rage, before angling down to show Apollo's face. He's lying on his back in the grass next to the lake. Unlike some of his previous posts, he's not just his usual calm self. He's in a good mood right now, if that contented smile is anything to go by.]

This place really reminds me of home. A lake, a forest, mountains... The giant water snakes who sometimes try to eat me when I go swimming are different, but other than that it's a lot like home. It's nice here. The Pokémon with me like it too.

[The arm holding the gear falls to the ground and the camera films the sky through blades of grass for a while before Apollo sits up and points it back at his face. He's serious now.]

What do I need to know to beat the gym in Goldenrod City? How do I know if the Pokémon with me are strong enough to win?

Comments

Audio;

[tentacletrainer]

Most importantly, expect tears. The gym leader will undoubtedly cry upon defeat. As for strength, have you received any badges prior to Goldenrod? If not, you may wish to attempt at least Azalea first. If you can't defeat them, you very likely will not defeat Goldenrod. You could always request another trainer to battle you who has the badge. Perhaps they could give you an adequate assessment as to whether or not you and your Pokemon are ready.

[Video forever]

[whateveryoueatliveitspart]

Why would she cry when she loses?

No, I've never tried to beat a gym before. I didn't want to fight any, but I need the Rock Smash HM from the Goldenrod Gym. The Pokémon with me want to fight the gyms, so I thought that I could let them fight the gyms that give HMs I might need. [The look on his face says that this is a very reluctant compromise.] I'll probably try to beat the Ecruteak Gym too, since I might need the Strength HM, but I don't want to fight any extra gyms.

There are probably people who have beaten the Goldenrod Gym near Goldenrod City, right? Maybe I could ask them.

[tentacletrainer]

There are just as many theories about that as there are about why we were brought here. Personally I think she just wants you to feel sorry for her. However, you won't receive your reward until she stops.

It would be a good idea to challenge the gyms for those, yes. Not only for the rewards but also the experience and exercise your Pokemon receive. And very likely, yes. In fact, if you'd like, I could offer my team.

[whateveryoueatliveitspart]

Why would she want people feeling sorry for her? Isn't she supposed to lose to people who are stronger than her?

[He hesitates slightly before responding to the second part. The idea of challenging a few of the gyms is already iffy in his mind. He's even less sure about a non-gym battle, even if it could be helpful for his team.]

Maybe if you're around when I get there I could. Would they be okay with fighting?