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"Correct, you must force your opponent where you want them, and defeat them instantly. Even if you can't, if you have chosen the right area, then your opponent won't be able to win," Burgh said.

"Now, student, did you have any questions?"

"Start with your prediction. You learn what to look for by losing, in this case, you lost because you messed up your first move. So you, as a trainer, must start there.

"Battling follows the same criteria, despite Pokemon. I can't tell you how to get closer to your Pokemon, only where you can start getting closer to yourself."

"You're trying to make me answer a question. Pokemon's statistical numbers can be analyzed by today's technology, that gives the illusion of 'levels', but switching out only works in the manuals.

"You have to train your Pokemon like you would train yourself. To make Kai better at fire he would have to train his fire, not blast enemies with fire attacks.

"Simultaneously, you must train your strategy by battling. Trial and error. You have to determine the strategy based on where you are, in other words, adapt to each situation uniquely.

"As for what you could have done in the last match? Ancient Power to force Venipede to dodge, Roll Out into his landing location after he jumps, break out of it, using his body as a psuedo-ramp, and blasting him into the floor with another Ancient Power. Or, that's how I would've done it."

Burgh laughed. "Yes, yes, now you're getting it, student. You have to throw yourself into the experience," his arms shot up, "let your muse of battle give you ideas while you look over every conceivable inconsistency in your strategy," he said.

"This is a special brew from my personal Leavanny. She's such a doll," he said and he gestured toward the leaf-armed Leavanny who was standing in the doorway to a small kitchen with that omnipresent smile.

"I do so adore her tea. Now, student, is there anything else I can help you with? I would do love to return to my paintings."

"You're welcome," Burg said, though he did not take Luka's hands. Such dirty hands he could not touch, for he needed to get right back to his art, not wash his hands and then get back to it.

So instead he took a bow. "I have high hopes for your challenge."

Xavier jumped forward, itching to battle. Saden pushed him back, analyzing the situation. The three gym leaders were obviously of the grass, water, and fire types. Though Xavier and Santa would be great for taking out Cilian, Chili would easily dominte them. Flurry on the other hand, would be neutral for Cress and Chili, and though Cilian was super-effective, he could fight back with his own super effective moves. Saden smirked, "Sorry Xavier, but Flurry will take this one."

The spheal lazily rolled forward and yawned. He glared at his trainer for making him work. Oh how he hated physical effort. He hoped this battle would be over soon so he could take a nap. But I guess he could take a nap during the match so it didn't really matter much to the sleepy spheal.