Chapter 623 - 622: Draco Meteor and Trick Room
As the gym leader, Cain would not attack first.
Only the challenger, Cynthia, could make the first move, according to the predetermined rules for gym challenges.
"Garchomp, use Sandstorm!" Cynthia ordered, signaling the start of the battle.
Cynthia's Garchomp possesses the Sand Veil ability, which increases its evasion in a sandstorm, indirectly boosting its mobility.
Starting with Sandstorm was a strategy perfectly aligned with Garchomp's strengths. From the very beginning, Cynthia was giving it her all.
"Slowking, use Rain Dance!" Cain responded to Cynthia's command.
He had already battled Shuichi's sandstorm team on Mythical Island, so Slowking knew how to act. Upon receiving Cain's order, it immediately began summoning rain.
To counteract the weather, you need to change it. Sandstorm not only enhanced Garchomp's combat abilities but also dealt continuous damage to any Pokémon that wasn't Rock, Ground, or Steel type.
Just as Garchomp started raising sand, small clouds appeared in the gym, brought forth by Slowking's Rain Dance.
But unlike Shuichi's Graveler, which was easily countered by Slowking, Cynthia's Garchomp was in a completely different league.
Due to the abundant moisture in the gym, Slowking's Rain Dance and Garchomp's Sandstorm canceled each other out.