Chapter 336: Water Gym Battle (3)
~Third POV~
[Hoenn Region, Sootopolis City – Gym]
Azure let out a sigh, a mix of disappointment and pride. He walked onto the field, recalling Metagross to its Poké Ball as he muttered softly, "You fought incredibly, Metagross. A truly magnificent effort."
He looked at Wallace, a wry smile on his face as he said calmly, "You weren't kidding about your team, Wallace. Despite being rusty, you clearly have your skill intact. Milotic is outstanding."
Wallace offered a small, appreciative bow. His eyes, however, still held the glint of a trainer ready to continue as he replied casually, "Yours too, Azure. Metagross pushed Milotic further than she's been in a long time."
Azure took another Poké Ball, his plan shifting to the next stage. He took a deep, steadying breath as he hurled his next choice, declaring, "Very well. Then let's see how you handle this! Slaking! Time to wake up!"
*Pop*
With a mighty roar, a colossal Pokémon burst forth from the Poké Ball. This was Azure's Alpha Slaking, a behemoth of muscle and raw power, even larger and more imposing than a typical Slaking.
*THUD*
It slammed onto the ground, its massive arms hanging loosely, its lazy gaze sweeping over the arena. It looked utterly bored, despite its immense presence.
Wallace's eyes widened fractionally, a flicker of surprise finally breaking his calm demeanor as he muttered cautiously, "That Slaking again... this will be interesting."
He knew of Slaking's immense power, counterbalanced by its Truant ability, which allowed it to act only every other turn. But he thought cautiously, 'It would if this boy didn't weaponize it with Sleep, or I guess Drowsy Status condition. Not only that, its base stats are no joke…'
Wallace ordered, hoping to maintain the offensive, "Milotic, Water Pulse!"
*SPLASH*
Milotic, though exhausted, gathered its remaining strength and launched a shimmering orb of water at the towering Slaking. The Water Pulse struck Slaking dead center, yet the colossal Pokémon simply grunted, barely flinching.
It raised a massive hand, rubbing its chest, as if shrugging off a minor itch. The attack had sustained no damage at all.
Azure smirked as he thought confidently with his arms crossed, 'This was why I'd chosen Slaking for this match. Despite his Sp. Def being 65, its HP is 150 base stat points. It's the beefy wall I needed.'
Wallace's brow furrowed as he ordered, "Milotic, Aqua Tail!"
*SPLASH*
Milotic, demonstrating remarkable bravery, charged forward, its powerful tail glowing and trailing water, aiming for another strike. But as it reached within range, Slaking moved with shocking speed for its size…
*Zoooom*
*GRAB*
Its massive hand shot out, grabbing Milotic mid-attack, stopping the elegant Pokémon dead in its tracks. With a casual flick of its wrist, Slaking tossed Milotic across the entire arena, sending it skidding along the field's surface until it slammed into the far wall.
*THUD*
Milotic cried in pain, being tossed. Azure commanded, aiming for a decisive blow, "Now, Slaking, Strong Style Focus Punch!"
*THUD*
Slaking, its eyes still half-lidded, began to gather energy, its colossal fist glowing with formidable fighting type power. It was slow, methodical, but the sheer destructive potential was evident. Wallace, seeing the imminent threat, reacted swiftly as he roared, "Milotic, Hydro Pump, to the face!"
*SPLASH*
Milotic, recovering from the toss, unleashed another pressurized blast of water, aiming specifically at Slaking's head, hoping to disrupt the charge. The Hydro Pump smacked Slaking directly in its face.
*SMACK*
Suddenly, Slaking's sleepy demeanor vanished. Its small eyes snapped open, blazing with an enraged fury, "Sla? SLAKING!!! (You dare puny fish!!)"
*RMBL*
A deep, guttural growl rumbled from its chest, shaking the very foundations of the Gym. The Hydro Pump, rather than stopping it, had simply angered the behemoth.
Azure roared, sensing the shift in Slaking's mood, "Tremble, Milotic! Earthquake!"
*RMBL*
*RMBL*
*RMBL*
Slaking slammed its colossal fists into the ground. The entire arena shook violently, cracks spiderwebbing across the stone battlefield. Ice cracked from the surface, and the ground beneath Milotic heaved and buckled.
Wallace urged, his voice now tight with concern, "Milotic, levitate, quickly!"
*Float*
Milotic, with a desperate surge of energy, managed to lift itself partially from the ground, narrowly avoiding the worst of the cataclysmic Earthquake. It hovered, swaying precariously, its strength waning.
Wallace tried, a desperate gamble, "Aqua Tail!"
*SPLASH*
Milotic, still airborne, attempted a final, weak Aqua Tail strike. But Slaking, now fully awake and enraged, was too fast.
*GRAB*
Its massive hand shot up, grabbing Milotic out of midair once more, its grip like an iron vise. With a snarl, it hurled the elegant Water-type creature into the ceiling of the Gym.
*THUD*
Milotic hit with a sickening thud, then plummeted back towards the ground. Wallace cried, a final, desperate plea, "Water Pulse!"
*SPLASH*
As Milotic fell, it unleashed one last Water Pulse. But Slaking, its rage burning bright, was already preparing a counter.
Azure's voice was a command of absolute power, " Slaking! Finish this! Strong Style Hyper Beam…!!"
*PEW*
A colossal, blinding Hyper Beam, far grander and more destructive than Metagross's, erupted from Slaking's chest. It ripped through Milotic's desperate Water Pulse as if it were nothing, a mere ripple in its path...
*KA-BOOOM*
The devastating energy blast slammed into Milotic, sending the champion's Pokémon flying. It struck the far wall again, this time with a sound of utter finality, before splashing limply into the field.
Its beautiful form was still, utterly defeated. Juan raised his arm again, his voice carrying the declaration, "Milotic is unable to battle! Slaking wins!"
Azure let out a slow, satisfied breath. Slaking, meanwhile, yawned mightily, its rage fading as quickly as it had arrived, its eyes once again half-lidded and bored.
It lumbered back to its position, looking as though it had barely exerted itself, despite having just defeated Wallace's ace. Wallace simply sighed, a proud, almost fond expression on his face as he recalled his beloved Milotic, muttered, "You pushed her to her limit, Azure. A truly powerful Slaking."
He looked at Azure, a new respect dawning in his eyes. This trainer was indeed special. Azure nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face.
Azure still had two Pokémon left as well. He had seen Wallace's skill, his calm demeanor, and his Milotic's incredible resilience and strategy as he thought, 'He indeed is a formidable Gym Leader, a master of his art. But the true test against Steven's absolute Champion-level strength still lay ahead. This battle, however, was providing a valuable benchmark…'
Wallace recalled his Milotic with pride as he commented on Azure's Slaking, "A valiant effort. It is true what they say: Slaking's rage is legendary."
Wallace reached for his second Poké Ball. This was the moment the climate would change as he declared, "Pelipper, the sky is yours!"
*Pop*
Pelipper, holding a [Damp Rock], emerged. Immediately, the skies inside the dome began to darken, and a steady, heavy rain began to fall...
*RMBL*
The Drizzle Ability is activated, drenching the arena and guaranteeing a fifty percent boost to all Water-type attacks. Wallace started, "Wing Attack!"
*Fwp*
*SMACK*
Pelipper swooped low, its Wing Attack catching Slaking on the shoulder. Slaking barely flinched, but Azure ordered, "Giga Impact!"
*ZOOOOM*
Slaking lumbered forward, charging like a landslide, ready to deliver a devastating full-body impact. But Wallace yelled, "Protect!"
*CLANG*
Pelipper encased itself in a shimmering green shield just as Slaking crashed down. The Giga Impact was absorbed harmlessly, and Slaking was forced to halt, entering the crucial recharge phase, unable to move.
Wallace capitalized instantly, eyes narrowed, commanded calmly, "Aqua Ring, then keep your distance!"
*Fwp*
*Splash*
*Fwp*
Pelipper circled high above, generating rings of healing water that steadily began to mend the minor damage it had taken. Slaking was stationary, a massive, vulnerable target.
Azure knew he couldn't let the stalling continue under the rain as he thought cautiously, 'Wallace is using the weather perfectly to maximize Pelipper's longevity and deny Slaking any chance of landing a full-power strike.'
Slaking finally moved after the recharge time was done. Azure ordered, hoping the sheer power would find the target, "Hyper Beam!"
*PEW*
Slaking unleashed the massive beam coming from its mouth, constantly adjusting its trajectory, following the soaring Pelipper as it moved its head. But Wallace, utilizing the high ground and Pelipper's natural Agility, maintained the distance, forcing the beam to track air instead of the target.
The Hyper Beam ended, and Slaking slumped into the second downside: Truant. Wallace seized the guaranteed opening and ordered, "Hurricane!"
*SWOOOOSH*
The wind attack, guaranteed to hit in the rain, materialized as a powerful, spiraling vortex. It slammed into the defenseless Slaking, spinning the massive Pokémon and dealing significant damage.
Azure ground his teeth as his eyes focused on the flying Pelipper thought, 'If this continued, Pelipper's Aqua Ring would negate any damage Slaking managed to inflict before Slaking was finally overwhelmed. I needed to break the aerial advantage now.'
Taking a deep breath, Azure roared, "Strong Style Outrage! Ignore the distance!"
*SNAP*
Slaking erupted in a savage, maddened roar, "GRAOOO!!!"
*RMBL*
Ignoring the recharge limitations and the Truant Ability, the Alpha Pokémon's legs bunched up, and it launched itself high into the air, a terrifying display of raw power overcoming natural limitations…
*Woooosh*
Pelipper and Wallace were momentarily caught off guard by the sheer, unexpected leap. Slaking, guided by its feral rage, managed to grab Pelipper mid-flight, wrenching the Water/Flying-type back down to the stone platform.
*THUD*
The Alpha Pokémon began to pummel Pelipper relentlessly, a storm of massive fists driven by pure instinct…
*BASH*
*SMACK*
*SMASH*
*BAM*
*BOOOOM*
… The beating continued until the Outrage ended, leaving Slaking trembling, exhausted, and confused by the primal fury. The Truant Ability is activated, leaving Slaking immobile, swaying slightly.
Wallace saw his chance to regain control as he commanded desperately, "Pelipper, escape with Agility!"
*Fwp*
*Fwp*
Pelipper struggled desperately to pull free from the massive hand pinning it. It was then that Azure saw his chance to clear the confusion as he grinned slyly and ordered, "Slaking! Target the ground! Headbutt!"
The confused, massive Pokémon listened to the last clear command it heard. Instead of aiming for Pelipper, Slaking slammed its colossal head down onto the stone platform, where Pelipper was still desperately trying to escape the grip.
*BASH*
*RMBL*
The Headbutt landed with the force of an avalanche. The impact shattered the remaining confusion in Slaking's mind, and Pelipper, caught directly beneath the overwhelming force, went limp.
Juan declared, "Pelipper is unable to battle! Slaking wins!"
Azure grinned as he had the advantage against Wallace, as he forced him to one last Pokémon. Now, only one of Wallace's Pokémon remained, standing defiant against the downpour that had begun to cascade from the Gym's ceiling – a residual effect of a battle-worn Pelipper, leaving the rainfall to boost Water Type Pokémon.
Azure, though, still had three Pokémon standing. His Alpha Slaking, a behemoth of raw power, lumbered heavily on the field, panting from its exertions.
It had been a force, cleaning up Wallace's majestic Milotic and then defeating Pelipper, but the effort had taken its toll. Despite being backed into a corner, Wallace's smile remained, a testament to his unbreakable spirit.
With a flourish that seemed to command the very air, he produced a Poké Ball as he announced, "Such a magnificent effort, Azure. But this dance is not yet over!"
*Pop*
Hurling the Poke Ball upward from the ball emerged a powerful Swampert, its Held Item, a [Swampertite], gleaming ominously on its ankle. Azure, seeing the formidable Mud Fish Pokémon, kept his Slaking on the battlefield.
He knew what was coming. Wallace's movements were swift, as graceful as a water dancer's. He touched the keystone on his wrist and declared, "Beyond the limits of evolution, Swampert! Mega Evolve!"
*SHIII*
A brilliant light enveloped Swampert. Its form swelled, muscles bulging, its head adornments growing sharper, more imposing. When the light subsided, Mega Swampert stood, an even more intimidating force.
Its eyes, now glowing with fierce determination, met Azure's. Its ability had shifted, becoming [Swift Swim], an ability that would double its speed in the relentless rain currently drenching the arena.
Azure's eyes widened, but his reaction was instantaneous as he roared, "Slaking! Giga Impact! Let's end this!"
*Zoooom*
The gargantuan Normal-type Pokémon, despite its previous exertions, surged forward with astonishing speed, a blue-white aura of raw energy surrounding it, intending to slam into Mega Swampert with everything it had.
But Mega Swampert was too fast. The rain, a loyal ally, carried it.
*Woooosh*
With an almost imperceptible shift of its massive bulk, it tilted, narrowly dodging the full force of Slaking's devastating Giga Impact. Before Slaking could recover from its momentary immobility, Mega Swampert's massive fist, already charged with energy, connected with Slaking's side in a powerful Focus Punch…
*BOOOM*
The punch from the impact created a shockwave, causing Slaking to move back. The Alpha Pokémon grunted, staggering backward from the immense impact.
Azure acknowledged, applauding Wallace's quick thinking in an excited tone, "Magnificent! You'll need more than just speed to beat Slaking, though!"
He pressed his advantage as he ordered, "Slaking, Mega Punch! Don't let up!"
Wallace, however, was already a step ahead. He commanded, and Mega Swampert's fists coated themselves in swirling, pressurized water, "Swampert, get in close and use Liquidation!"
*Wooosh*
The two titans met head-on, their powerful blows colliding with a thunderous impact that sent shockwaves across the field…
*KA-BOOOM*
… For a moment, time seemed to pause, the air thick with tension. Then, with a heavy thud, Slaking, the mighty Alpha, collapsed to the ground, unconscious.
*THUD*
Azure recalled Slaking, his expression one of profound gratitude as he whispered, "You fought incredibly, Slaking. Thank you."
He knew the battle was far from over. Wallace's Mega Swampert, boosted by [Swift Swim] in the rain, was a formidable threat. Azure murmured, selecting his next Pokémon, "Alright… Looks like it's your turn to match that speed, Sceptile!"
*Pop*
From its Poké Ball, Sceptile burst forth, its lean, green form exuding raw speed and agility. On its arm, a [Miracle Seed]pulsed faintly, ready to amplify its Grass-type attacks.
Azure was banking on Sceptile's natural swiftness to counter Mega Swampert's rain-boosted speed. Without hesitation, Azure issued his first command, "Sceptile, Sunny Day! Let's burn away this rain!"
If he could remove the rain, Mega Swampert's speed advantage would vanish. But Wallace was too shrewd, too experienced to allow such a crucial environmental change.
He countered, his voice sharp, "Swampert, Ice Punch!"
*Zoooom*
Mega Swampert, unbelievably fast, surged forward, its fist glowing with frigid energy. Azure yelled, his eyes widening at Swampert's closing speed, "Sceptile, cancel Sunny Day! Quick Detect!"
*Wooosh*
Just in the nick of time, Sceptile shimmered, becoming intangible as Swampert's Ice Punch ripped through the space where it had been a split second before. Wallace let out a light scold as he playfully said, "Now, now, Azure. We wouldn't want to spoil this beautiful rain, would we? Not when it's so perfectly suited for my Swampert."
Azure wiped a bead of sweat from his forehead, a sly grin playing on his lips as he replied, "Sure thing, Wallace. Then I guess I'll just have to go all-out attack!"
The battle resumed with blistering speed. Sceptile, its movements a blur, launched into a Quick Attack, aiming to press its advantage…
*Zooom*
Mega Swampert, however, anticipated the maneuver. As Sceptile closed in, Swampert deftly coiled its body, thrusting Sceptile into the air with immense force, sending the Grass-type soaring…
*BAM*
… Before Sceptile could regain its bearings, Swampert leaped, meeting it in mid-air with a powerful Ice Punch that sent Sceptile hurtling backward, slamming into the ground.
*SMASH*
Sceptile recovered quickly, scrambling back to its feet, though a wisp of icy breath escaped its snout. Mega Swampert wasted no time, unleashing a torrent of high-pressure water with Muddy Water, aiming to engulf Sceptile.
*SPLASH*
Azure's eyes darted around, looking for an opening, till he looked up and ordered, "Sceptile, ceiling! Cling on!"
*Wooosh*
*CLING*
Sceptile bounded into the air, its sharp claws digging into the ancient stone ceiling, narrowly avoiding the murky cascade below. Azure followed up, ordered, "Now, Energy Ball! And then… eat it!"
*GULP*
Sceptile conjured a vibrant green orb of energy, then, with a surprising move, consumed it. Its body pulsed with emerald light.
*SHIII*
Its Overgrow Ability is activated, enhancing its Grass-type moves by a staggering 50%. Azure was pulling out all the stops, using every means available to power up his Pokémon to battle against Wallace.
Wallace, however, was equally resourceful. He commanded, "Swampert, Ice Beam!"
*PEW*
A frigid blue beam shot towards the ceiling, aiming to dislodge Sceptile. But Azure cried, ordering, "Sceptile, jump! Energy Ball!"
*PEW*
Sceptile launched itself off the ceiling, hurtling its now super-powered Energy Ball at the incoming Ice Beam. The two attacks collided in a brilliant flash of light and ice, creating a localized explosion.
*BOOM*
Sceptile was thrust backward, but Mega Swampert, caught in the residual shockwave, skidded across the soaked battlefield, momentarily losing its footing. Azure saw the crucial opening commanded, "Sceptile, Agile Style Leaf Blade! Go for it!"
*Zoooom*
Sceptile, with a roar, charged forward, its leaf-blades glowing with vibrant green energy, poised to strike. But Wallace was not one to be easily surprised as he countered, "Swampert, Ice Punch! Counter with all your might!"
*KRACKLE*
Mega Swampert, recovering its balance with incredible speed, met Sceptile's Leaf Blade head-on with another frigid Ice Punch, deflecting the attack and preventing any direct damage.
Wallace praised lightly, but his battle-hardened resolve remained as he ordered, "A spirited fight, Azure! Your Sceptile's determination is truly commendable! Now, Swampert, Ice Beam!"
*PEW*
Sceptile, still in close quarters, twisted its body, narrowly dodging the chilling beam. Azure roared, "Leaf Blade! Again!"
*Zooom*
Sceptile thrusts itself forward, aiming a devastating Leaf Blade. This time, Wallace had an even more cunning counter as he commanded, "Earth Power!"
*RMBL*
Mega Swampert slammed its massive fist into the ground. The very earth beneath Sceptile's feet erupted, summoning a jagged pillar of rock that surged upwards, tripping the charging Grass-type.
Sceptile, caught off guard and unbalanced, tumbled forward, losing its momentum and hurtling directly towards Mega Swampert. Wallace grinned as he ordered, "Now for the finale! Ice Punch!"
*KRACKLE*
Before Sceptile could recover, before Azure could even issue another command, Swampert retaliated with a lightning-fast Ice Punch straight to Sceptile's head. The impact was brutal, undeniable…
*SMASH*
Sceptile, caught mid-stumble, had no time to change its attack or move away. It was slammed into the nearby wall, forming a deep crater in the stone.
*THUD*
A hush fell over the Gym. Everyone waited, breathless, to see Sceptile's state.
When the dust settled, the powerful Grass-type lay motionless, clearly fainted. Azure's jaw tightened as another of his Pokémon was down, and Wallace's Mega Swampert was still standing, powered by the rain.
Azure quietly recalled Sceptile, his expression a mix of pride and fierce determination, "You fought with everything you had, Sceptile. Rest now."
He reached for his last Poké Ball. The rain continued to fall, a persistent reminder of Mega Swampert's overwhelming advantage.
There was no time to stop it now with his final Pokémon. But Azure wouldn't yield. He would give his absolute all.
He held up the last Poké Ball, his eyes locking onto Wallace's as he declared boldly, "Very well, Wallace. Then let's see if a bit of grace can outmaneuver the storm. My last Pokémon is Gardevoir!"
*Pop*
The Poké Ball clicked open, revealing the elegant Psychic/Fairy-type. On her finger, the [Gardevoirite] pulsed with latent energy, waiting.
Azure's gaze hardened, his strategic mind already racing. He knew the odds were stacked against him. Mega Swampert, a Water/Ground-type with doubled speed in the rain, was a nightmare matchup for his Psychic/Fairy-type Gardevoir.
But Azure Sky wasn't a two-time Champion without reason. He had a plan.
Azure commanded, his voice ringing with absolute certainty, "Gardevoir… Let's show them the true power of elegance! Mega Evolve!"
*SHIII*
He touched the keystone on his glove hand. A brilliant, ethereal light enveloped Gardevoir as she began to transform. Her dress-like body expanded, becoming even more flowing and voluminous, split at the waist to emphasize her powerful legs.
Her arms elongated, gaining a more slender, graceful appearance, and the horn-like spikes on her head merged into a single, sharp crest. When the light faded, Mega Gardevoir stood, radiating an aura of immense psychic power and serene beauty. Her Ability, Pixilate, shifted, ready to convert Normal-type moves into Fairy-type powerhouses.
Wallace's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise and admiration crossing his face. He composed himself, his smile unwavering, "A Mega Evolution! Excellent! This is truly a Champion's battle! Swampert, my dear, let us meet this challenge with renewed vigor! Waterfall!"
*SPLASH*
Mega Swampert, a blur of motion thanks to Swift Swim, charged forward, its body enveloped in a swirling pillar of water, aiming to crash into Mega Gardevoir. The disparity in speed was alarming, a true testament to the rain's power.
Azure calmly looked at Gardevoir, and both nodded in sync, ordered, "Teleport."
*Swf*
Avoiding the Waterfall attack, Gardevoir vanished in a flash of blue light. Wallace and Swampert looked where Gardevoir materialized.
But Azure didn't give them the chance to counter. Azure commanded, his voice sharp and clear, "Moonblast, Gardevoir!"
*Shiii*
Mega Gardevoir gathered immense amounts of pure Fairy energy, coalescing it into a sparkling, devastating orb that shot towards Mega Swampert. Wallace countered instantly, "Hydro Pump, Swampert!"
*SPLASH*
Mega Swampert roared, unleashing a colossal torrent of water, a geyser-like blast, super-charged by the rain, that surged toward the Moonblast. The two powerful attacks collided mid-arena in a blinding explosion of light and color, sending shockwaves through the water and echoing through the Gym.
*KA-BOOOM*
The impact obscured both Pokémon for a moment, but Mega Swampert, ever the aggressor, burst through the lingering spray, charging Gardevoir with surprising speed. Wallace ordered, aiming to strike a direct, physical blow, "Liquidation!"
*SPLASH*
Swampert rushed in recklessly, but Gardevoir was already moving…
*Shiii*
Its eyes glowed, briefly seeing a flicker of the future, a moment of precognition honed through countless battles and Azure's specialized training. With a graceful, almost imperceptible shift, it shimmered, an illusory Double Team creating multiple copies of itself, increasing its evasion.
*Wooosh*
Swampert's powerful Liquidation ripped through empty air, splintering one of the phantom Gardevoir. Wallace, however, was no novice.
He and Swampert remained vigilant, their senses finely tuned. Merely hitting space didn't mean they had lost. Then, something unexpected happened.
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's eyes flared with intense psychic energy, and without a direct order from Azure, it levitated slightly, its hands extending towards Mega Swampert. A wave of force crashed down as Azure ordered, "Gravity!"
*THUMP*
Mega Swampert, in mid-dash, suddenly felt an immense, crushing pressure. Its massive form sagged, its movements visibly hampered, the force of gravity making every motion a struggle. It was a testament to Gardevoir's intelligence and quick thinking. Azure barely registered the uncalled move, his focus already on the next phase, just as they trained reading each other's actions through glance.
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's eyes glowed once more, but this time, it was a subtle, inward focus – using Agile Style Future Sight not for attack, but to predict Swampert's likely response, seeing the next few seconds of its future, allowing it to prepare to counter its speed using its psychic powers.
Wallace looked genuinely surprised by Gardevoir's independent action. He murmured, impressed, "A well-trained Gardevoir, indeed…"
Azure ordered, seizing the moment, "Confusion Blast, Gardevoir!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's hands snapped forward, unleashing a compressed ball of pure psychic energy, a concentrated blast aimed directly at the now-slower Swampert, intending to blast it with raw mental force.
But Wallace, recovering quickly, barked, "Water Pulse!"
*SPLASH*
Mega Swampert, despite the Gravity, managed to unleash a pulsating orb of water, distorted by the rain, towards Gardevoir. Gardevoir, however, was already anticipating, as its eyes glowed, using Agile Style Future Sight.
*Wooosh*
Another Double Team shimmered around it, and the Water Pulse harmlessly passed through an illusion. Wallace pressed, trying to overwhelm the evasive Psychic-type, "Hydro Pump, full power!"
*SPLASH*
A massive surge of water rocketed towards Gardevoir, but its eyes glowed with psychic energy again, anticipating the trajectory. It side-stepped with astonishing grace, the deluge missing by mere inches, crashing spectacularly into the back wall of the arena.
*BOOOM*
Mega Swampert, seemingly frustrated by Gardevoir's uncanny evasiveness, began to manipulate the very moisture in the air, shaping the falling rain into a dense, concentrated sphere. Wallace urged, pushing his partner, "Water Pulse!"
*SWOOOSH*
Swampert forced the nearby water towards Gardevoir, a liquid missile propelled by sheer force. Azure commanded, his voice cutting through the roar of the rain, "Strong Style Tera Blast! Full power!"
*PEW*
Mega Gardevoir, its Pixilate ability glowing brightly, compressed a ball of energy – a move that would normally be Normal-type, but was now infused with devastating Fairy-type power. The newly transformed Tera Blast, gaining STAB and super-effectiveness, hurtled towards the incoming Water Pulse…
*BOOOM*
The two attacks met with a furious clash, an explosion of sparkling Fairy energy and rushing water that forced both Pokémon back, momentarily shrouded in steam. As the steam cleared, Swampert charged again, its determination unwavering as Wallace cried, "Now! End it with an Ice Punch!"
*Woooosh*
Mega Swampert's massive fist glowed with chilling, icy energy, a super-effective threat to Gardevoir's Psychic/Fairy typing. Azure ordered, making a calculated risk, "Calm Mind, Gardevoir!"
*Drip*
Gardevoir's eyes closed for a split second, a radiant aura enveloping it. Its Special Attack and Special Defense stats surged, increasing by +1 stages, but it couldn't fully evade the physical blow…
*SMASH*
The Ice Punch connected with a sickening thud, sending Mega Gardevoir skidding across the polished floor, crashing dangerously close to Azure's side. Gardevoir lay momentarily still, looking worse for wear, its elegant form trembling.
Wallace, seeing the damage, offered a moment of concern, seeing such a beautiful Pokémon injured, "Azure, perhaps it's time to surrender? Swampert has taken down two of your Pokémon already, and Gardevoir looks… severely weakened."
Azure merely grinned slyly. His eyes met Gardevoir's, and a silent understanding passed between them.
Gardevoir, with a remarkable effort, slowly pushed itself up, its form still wobbly…
*Shiii*
… Then, its body pulsed with a gentle green light as Azure said, "Recover."
Wallace's eyes widened, a rare gasp escaping him. The shock in his voice was palpable as he yelled, "Nani?! Recover? Gardevoir can use Recover?!"
Azure chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he explained, "Indeed. Gardevoir foresight the attack and knew that moment was its moment to use Recover to regain its health and stamina, gracefully twirling itself back into form. And as for how…"
He added, glancing pointedly at Wallace and then Juan, learning from them in a smug voice, "Well, I've had the distinct pleasure of watching you both use Milotic's incredible endurance and Recover tactics so effectively in this very battle. I figured it wouldn't hurt to take a page out of your books myself."
Wallace grimaced, a hint of frustration mixing with his admiration. His Mega Swampert, having battled three opponents, was indeed losing steam, even with the rain. Its movements were less fluid, its attacks a fraction slower.
Wallace commanded, trying to capitalize on what little momentum he had left, "Hydro Pump, Swampert! Don't let up!"
*SPLASH*
Mega Swampert gathered its energy, unleashing another massive Hydro Pump towards Gardevoir. But the Psychic Pokémon was ready.
*Shiii*
With a single, elegant hand, it extended forward, a shimmering barrier of Telekinesis manifesting. The torrent of water, instead of striking, was diverted, arcing harmlessly away from Gardevoir.
*PEW*
With its other hand, Gardevoir thrust forward, unleashing a focused Psybeam. Swampert, trying to counter this new attack, charged with Liquidation, but the Psybeam struck first, a ripple of psychic energy impacting Swampert, causing it to flinch ever so slightly.
*BOOOM*
Just as Swampert pressed its attack, trying to exploit the opening, Gardevoir's eyes flashed again with Future Sight. It saw the immediate trajectory, the impending strike.
*Swf*
With another graceful movement, Gardevoir simply vanished, reappearing several feet away using Teleport, narrowly avoiding Swampert's direct hit. Teleporting from behind its opponent, Gardevoir didn't give Swampert a moment to recover.
Azure, sensing the end, called out, "Hidden Power, Gardevoir! Now!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's hands glowed, then unleashed a blistering flash of pink energy – a Hidden Power attack, carefully trained to always deal super-effective damage against any type of Pokémon dealing super effective damage…
*BOOOM*
The beam lanced forward, striking Mega Swampert squarely in the back. The attack engulfed the massive Pokémon, culminating in an explosion that rocked the arena, leaving a giant plume of smoke and dust billowing upwards, obscuring everything.
Both Azure and Gardevoir held their breath, unsure of Swampert's exact location, the smoke too thick to see through. Gardevoir's eyes glowed with Future Sight once more, predicting the next move…
*Shiii*
Just as it registered the threat, it swiftly levitated itself higher using Telekinesis. A moment later, Mega Swampert burst from the ground, having used Dig to attempt a surprise attack from below!
*RMBL*
It looked battered, smeared with mud and dust, but not out of the battle yet. Its attack, however, soared harmlessly below Gardevoir, who now floated gracefully above the ravaged ground.
Seeing its chance, Gardevoir formed one last, potent Hidden Power, channeling every ounce of its remaining energy into the attack. Azure's voice rang out, "Finish it, Gardevoir!"
*PEW*
The shimmering orb of energy struck Mega Swampert directly. The super-effective blow, combined with the earlier damage, proved to be too much…
*BOOOM*
Mega Swampert roared one last, defiant cry, then slumped to the ground, its powerful form shimmering back to its regular state, unconscious. Juan's voice, though tinged with regret for Wallace, was firm and clear, "Swampert is unable to battle! Gardevoir is the winner! Therefore, the victory goes to Azure Sky!"
A wave of relief and exhilaration washed over Azure. He let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, a triumphant smile spreading across his face.
Pikachu and Eevee cheered wildly from the sidelines, jumping up and down, "Pika! Eevoi!! (Way to go girl!)"
Wallace, though defeated, held no bitterness. He walked onto the field, recalling his Swampert with a gentle touch. He said calmly, extending a hand to Azure, "A magnificent battle, Azure. Truly. Your Gardevoir's intellect, its adaptability, and your strategic foresight are exceptional. And no small feat, to defeat my main team, even if they aren't quite at their peak."
He gave a wry smile as he added on embarrassedly said, "That Recover trick… quite clever. I wouldn't have expected it from a Trainer who seemed to prefer sheer power."
Azure shook his hand warmly as he replied in good sportsmanship behavior, "Learning never stops, Wallace. And truthfully, your Milotic's endurance inspired me with Gardevoir. Thank you for the incredible battle."
He glanced at Gardevoir, who gently floated down beside him, looking exhausted but victorious, thanking her with a head pat, "You were incredible, Gardevoir."
Gardevoir blushed happily, being praised, "Gaaa… (Praise me more, master~)"
Azure chuckled, directing his attention to Gardevoir. Juan approached, a thoughtful look on his face as he said happily, "Indeed. A display of power and grace rarely seen. You fought like a seasoned Champion, with a team to match. This benchmark you seek… I believe you have found your answer. Steven Stone would have been proud to face you."
Azure's smirk returned, a satisfied warmth spreading through him. He had faced Wallace's best, pushed himself to the very limit, and emerged victorious.
Wallace then brought out Azure's reward and Rain Badge as he handed them to him in a proud tone, "And here you go, Azure. Your rewards and the Rain Badge! Congratulations!"
[Item: Rain Badge
Rarity Item: A+
Type: Key Item
Description: A Gym Badge, commonly referred to as simply a badge, is an item that serves as proof of a Pokémon Trainer's victory in a battle against a Gym Leader at a Pokémon Gym. With this badge, Water-Type Moves are increased by 12.5%, and controlling Pokémon is easier for the Trainer to command.]
[Item: TM Water Pulse
Rarity Item: -
Type: Technical Machine
Description: A Technical Machine used to grant memory knowledge of how to perform the move [Water Pulse].]
Azure smiled as he got his rewards from winning against Wallace. The Indigo double champion had just proven his strength was more than capable of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Hoenn's former elite.
But now that he obtained all 8 Gym Badges, he thought, looking at his badge case, 'It's almost time… but I need to train my team to battle against the Hoenn Elite Four. But I have a team in mind for this…'
Azure grinned, having a plan in mind. But for now, he rested for the next few days, and he'll train the team prepared for the Elite Four…
/////
A/N: Reach the goal of 100 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!