Chapter 339: Elite Four Dark Battle
~Third POV~
[Hoenn Region, Ever Grande City, Pokémon League (Hoenn)]
The air in Ever Grande City shimmered with the residue of recent storms, yet the sky above the magnificent Hoenn Pokémon League complex was, fittingly, an unblemished structure untouched. After two weeks spent in the seclusion of the Secret Meadow, a space of lush, untamed growth perfect for high-intensity training, Azure Sky finally stood before the monument of his latest ambition.
The Hoenn Pokémon League was an imposing sight, its polished black wood and sweeping tile roofs fashioned after the grand, traditional Japanese castles found only in history books. It spoke of ancient power and unwavering dignity, a perfect crucible for testing a Champion.
Perched on his shoulder, Pikachu, his oldest and most steadfast partner, twitched an ear, its chocolatey eyes scanning the sprawling city before them. On his head, Eevee, ever the curious and affectionate companion, nuzzled gently, its soft fur a comforting presence.
They were his constants, his anchors, but for the trials ahead, the Hoenn Pokémon League, an entirely new legion of power, would step into the spotlight. Within the carefully selected Poké Balls adorning his belt lay the six titans he had painstakingly prepared.
Their training had been sacred, secluded within the Secret Meadow, a hidden sanctuary where Azure had pushed them to their limits, honing their synergy and individual strengths. Every move, every counter, every strategic pivot had been drilled until it was instinct.
He had provided them with the best, from rare berries to bespoke training regimens, sculpted to forge them into an unstoppable unit. Now, as the grand, traditional Japanese castle-like edifice of the Hoenn Pokémon League rose majestically before him, Azure reached up, gently stroking Pikachu's head, then Eevee's.
He murmured, his voice soft but resonant with genuine gratitude, "Thank you, both of you. You've been with me every step of this journey. But from here on, it's just the six of them. The toughest trainers Hoenn has to offer await."
Pikachu's ears, usually perked with boundless energy, drooped momentarily, a flicker of disappointment in its eyes. Eevee let out a small, wistful whine, "Bui! (Aw man…)"
They understood; they knew the rules. But then, as if by unspoken agreement, their ears perked back up, brighter than before, a cascade of excited 'Pika! Pika!' and 'Eevee! Eevee!' bursting forth.
They would cheer him on from the sidelines, their spirit a shield and a spur. Azure smiled, a warmth spreading through him as he praised, "That's it! You'll be my lucky charms, my inspiration."
His gaze then drifted to a shadowy, ethereal figure hovering subtly behind him, its eyes two pools of molten gold. He addressed the Mythical Pokémon calmly, "Marshadow. This is something I have to deal with alone, with my Hoenn Team."
Marshadow's eyes flickered, a silent acknowledgment, then it nodded, a barely perceptible dip of its head. The protective aura it usually maintained around Azure softened, accepting his call for self-reliance in this specific challenge.
With a deep breath, Azure reached for his belt, calling forth his six chosen warriors. Six beams of white light erupted, materializing into the formidable forms.
*Pop*
Gardevoir, Sceptile, Slaking, Milotic, Metagross, and Salamence. Their magnificent cries echoed, a symphony of determination and raw power.
Gardevoir, ever graceful, bowed its head slightly in thanks. Sceptile thumped its chest, a silent vow. Slaking let out a deep rumble that vibrated through the ground.
Milotic swayed elegantly, a picture of serene confidence. Metagross's multiple eyes pulsed with focus, and Salamence roared, spreading its vast wings in a declaration of victory. They acknowledged Pikachu and Eevee's support, their journey together, and the deep bond that united them all.
Seeing their resolve, Pikachu and Eevee chirped with renewed vigor, nodding their heads in full support. Marshadow, too, gave a light, almost imperceptible nod, a silent blessing, and wished them luck.
Azure, his heart swelling with pride, returned his team to their Poké Balls. With a final, determined glance at the imposing castle ahead, he marched forward, ready to face the Hoenn Pokémon League, his mind already calculating the logistics of transferring his remaining companions back to Professor Oak's care via the League's lobby…
/////
[Hoenn Region, Pokémon League (Hoenn) – Elite Chambers]
Meanwhile, within the ancient, hallowed halls of the Hoenn Pokémon League, the Elite Four had already gathered. Sidney, his heavy-lidded eyes gleaming with mischievous anticipation, emerged from his dark-themed chamber. Phoebe, a spectral smile playing on her lips, drifted in from her eerie, glowing room.
Glacia, her movements as fluid and graceful as ice, stepped forth from her crystalline domain. Drake, a weathered sea captain with a booming laugh and eyes that held the wisdom of the oceans, strode in, his presence commanding…
*Tmp*
The last to arrive, with a casual elegance that belied his immense power, was the Hoenn Champion, Steven Stone. His silver hair shimmered under the ambient light as he adjusted the collar of his suit.
A sly grin touched his lips as he announced, his voice calm yet carrying, "Gentlemen, ladies… Azure Sky has finally arrived. I just received a text from the Hoenn Pokémon Association Chairman. He's here."
A collective hum went through the Elite Four. They had been waiting.
It had been a long time since a trainer had managed to collect all eight Gym Badges with such swiftness and, more remarkably, had played a pivotal role in averting the catastrophic awakening of the Super Ancient Pokémon, Kyogre and Groudon. This challenger was not just another Gym Badge collector; he was a hero, and a two-time Indigo League Champion to boot.
Sidney's grin widened, a confident, swaggering edge to it. He turned to Glacia, a playful challenge in his tone declared, "I'll defeat this challenger before you even get a chance, Glacia. My Dark-types are itching for a fight!"
Phoebe let out a soft, echoing laugh. She countered, her grin playful but with an undercurrent of eerie confidence in her tone, "You'll lose even faster, Sidney! He'll be mine to defeat."
Drake, ever the stoic and honorable warrior, simply surveyed them with a warm gaze. He settled into a contemplative silence, his mind already envisioning potential battles before he announced, "Prepare yourselves, everyone. I look forward to seeing how strong this challenger truly is."
As the Elite Four members returned to their respective rooms, preparing for the inevitable clash, Steven remained, a thoughtful expression on his face.
He knew Azure Sky's reputation; his victories were legendary. He pondered when the new challenger would finally reach his own chamber, a sly, knowing smile playing on his lips as he knew the answer…
/////
[Hoenn Region, Pokémon League (Hoenn) – Sideny's Room]
*Tmp*
*Tmp*
Azure's footsteps echoed softly within the grand entrance hall of the League building. The intricate carvings of Pokémon battles adorned the walls, depicting legendary clashes and triumphant trainers.
He found the lobby, quickly initiated the transfer of his non-battle Pokémon to Professor Oak's lab, ensuring his roster was precisely six for the upcoming challenge ahead of him. With the formalities handled, he advanced into the dark passageway that led deeper into the castle.
The air grew heavier, thick with anticipation and the silent hum of ancient power. Small, strategically placed lights illuminated the path, creating an almost theatrical sense of progression.
Each step brought him closer to the unknown, to trainers whose skill was honed to a razor's edge. Finally, the passage opened into a vast chamber, bathed in a soft, sandy light as he thought calmly, 'This is Sidney's room.'
The chamber was an arena, carved within a building surrounded by a seemingly endless expanse of sand, which also filled deep pits within the battling space itself. At the far end, lounging casually on a small, black chair, sat Sidney, the Dark-Type Elite Four member.
His gaze, heavy-lidded and brimming with an almost feral amusement, fixed on Azure. Sidney drawled, a wicked grin stretching across his face as he rose from his chair, as he welcomed him plainly in a casual voice, "Welcome, Challenger Azure Sky… Welcome to the Hoenn Pokémon League Elite Four."
*FLASH*
As if on cue, a sudden flash of light erupted from the back of the room, momentarily disorienting. Azure blinked, adjusting his vision, to see Sidney waiting.
He felt a thrill of excitement, the familiar surge of adrenaline that signaled the beginning of a true challenge. Sidney clapped his hands together, stating the rules, "Excellent! The rules are simple: A full-on, six-on-six Pokémon battle. No holds barred, no substitutions once a Pokémon is knocked out. The first to defeat all the opponent's Pokémon wins. Are you ready, Azure?"
Azure's grin mirrored Sidney's predatory one, but with an undercurrent of calm confidence as he coolly replied, "More than ready, Sidney. Let's do this."
Before the battle could commence, a curiosity flickered in Sidney's eyes, dulling his eagerness for a moment asked, "I admit, I read the reports. You're without the icons, the little lightning bolt rat, and the evolution master fox. Couldn't you have brought your Kanto or Johto team? Those guys are already seasoned in League combat."
Azure shook his head confidently, the movement deliberate as he replied confidently, "I don't want to make it easier for myself, relying on my old partners from previous journeys. I'm a Champion all but name, but I want to win this League with any team I choose. If I can't, I don't deserve the title."
Sidney let out a sharp, theatrical laugh, pulling his head back, "Hahaha!!! Extremely confident, or pathologically arrogant. Either way, it makes for good theater."
He retrieved his first Poké Ball as he hurled it up, simultaneously declaring, "Prepare yourself! Let's see if your new shine can withstand true darkness! Go, Scrafty!"
*Pop*
The Dark and Fighting-type materialized with a menacing snarl. Its Ability, Intimidate, immediately triggered, washing over the arena in a wave of chilling presence that caused an invisible drain on the opposing Pokémon's fighting spirit with its held item [Black Belt] wrapped on its arm.
Azure merely watched, unconcerned. He hurled his first Poke Ball, declaring calmly, "Milotic, let's go!"
*Pop*
The graceful sea serpent erupted from its ball, its scales catching the intense light, a vision of beauty amidst the sand. Immediately, Milotic's Attack stat dropped by -1 Stage due to the Intimidate ability.
But Azure's strategy was instantly revealed: as Milotic settled, the [Flame Orb] she held activated. A wave of heat enveloped her, inflicting the painful Burn status. This was no mistake; the burn effect dramatically activated Milotic's Ability, Marvel Scale, immediately boosting its already formidable Defense.
Sidney understood the maneuver instantly—a risky yet brilliant strategy to turn a status condition into a defensive boon. Sidney sneered, realizing the Attack drop from Intimidate still stood as he ordered, "A trick, huh? Doesn't matter, challenger! Scrafty! Close the distance! Brick Break!"
*Wooosh*
Scrafty lunged forward, chopping down with a powerful, fighting-type strike aimed at Milotic's head. Azure watched the attack arc toward his partner, his voice calm yet commanding, "Dragon Dance. Now!"
*Swooosh*
Milotic didn't dodge conventionally; she swirled. The serpentine Pokémon rotated its body, the movement of the Dragon Dance increasing both its Attack and Speed by +1 stage, causing the Brick Break to whistle harmlessly through the air where she had been a moment before.
In the same fluid motion, Milotic ceased its dance and gathered power in its maw. Azure ordered, "Agile Style Hydro Pump!"
*SPLASH*
A tremendous column of pressurized water erupted from Milotic, hitting Scrafty hard and forcing the Dark-type back several paces, leaving a deep trench in the sand. Scrafty shook its head, clearly stunned but not finished.
Sidney's eyes narrowed as he calmly analyzed the situation, critically thinking, 'Azure's Hoenn team, despite having been under his ownership for less than 80 days, possessed a disciplined strength that matched, perhaps even exceeded, my own Pokémon…'
Sidney laughed, genuinely impressed by Azure's belief as he ordered, "Exciting! Alright, let's see how that durability holds up! Scrafty, Thunder Punch!"
*ZAP*
Scrafty recovered instantly, its fist crackling with potent electric energy as it landed a super-effective hit against the Water-type. Milotic hissed, enduring the blow, the Marvel Scale protection absorbing much of the force, though the pain was evident.
But Azure found the opening he needed as he countered, "Retaliate, Milotic! Strong Style Disarming Voice!"
*SCHEEEE*
Milotic unleashed a piercing, sonic wave rich with Fairy-type energy. The high-pitched, confusing attack struck Scrafty non-critically, but the unexpected sound-based damage caused the Fighting-type Pokémon to stumble, disoriented.
Azure hadn't missed a beat as he added, "Wrap! Then Iron Head!"
Capitalizing on Scrafty's momentary confusion, Milotic surged forward, coiling its immense body around the struggling Scrafty, effectively trapping it in a powerful Wrap. Before Scrafty could break free, Milotic's head slammed down, driven by the steel energy of Iron Head.
*CLANG*
The blow was sharp and sudden, causing Scrafty to flinch violently inside the coils. Azure stated, his voice final, "Finish it. Strong Style Scald!"
*SPLASH*
Scalding hot water erupted from Milotic, released at point-blank range while Scrafty was still trapped. The supercharged attack scalded Scrafty, delivering a burst of heat that was compounded by the residual damage from the Iron Head and Hydro Pump…
*Thud*
Scrafty cried out, the attack too much to bear, and it slumped, defeated. Azure smirked slyly as he thought, 'That's one down. 5 more to go…'
Sidney clicked his tongue, retrieving his partner with a hint of annoyance, quickly replaced by his characteristic grin as he replied, "That was a tactical clinic, Champion. Fast, brutal, and utterly unexpected coming from a Milotic. But that burn will take its toll."
He reached for his next choice, slyly grinning, hurling the Poke Ball into the air roared, "Go, Mightyena!"
*Pop*
Sidney's second Pokémon, a ferocious canine with a thick mane, burst onto the field. Azure, however, wasn't fooled.
His eyes narrowed slightly. He'd seen enough battles to recognize the subtle shift in Sidney's grin, the way his eyes tracked the 'Mightyena' with a heightened, playful glint as he thought, 'This wasn't a standard Mightyena… better trust my instincts.'
Azure said calmly, recalling his graceful partner hurling his next Poke Ball, "Milotic, return. Sceptile, I choose you!"
*Pop*
In a flash of green emerald light, and Sceptile materialized, its sharp leaf blades gleaming, the [Miracle Seed] enhancing its Grass-type attacks. Its gaze was sharp, assessing the apparent Mightyena.
Sidney chuckled, his voice laced with amusement as he uttered, "A wise switch. But perhaps not wise enough for what's coming."
Sidney knew he needed to exploit the element of surprise. Azure opens as he commanded, "Sceptile! Quick Attack!"
*Zoooom*
Opening the fight with Quick Attack, 'Mightyena' evades Sceptile, and Sideny countered, "Heh. Sucker Punch!"
*SMACK*
Slamming its legs against Sceptile's chest, 'Mightyena' easily lands the first strike, sending the Forest Pokémon flying into the air. It lands on its feet, but 'Mightyena' keeps up the pressure, rushing forward.
Sceptile, with its keen senses, immediately picked up on something amiss. It wasn't just Sidney's subtle cues.
The scent, the subtle aura of the supposed 'Mightyena', felt… off. Azure noticed Sceptile's tail twitching, its eyes tracking the foe with an unusual intensity.
Azure commanded, deciding to test the illusion head-on, "Sceptile, use Leaf Blade!"
*Shinng*
Secptiles' wrist leaves turned sharp as it lunged forward, preparing its attack. But Sidney smirked as he countered, "Mightyena! Counter with Night Daze!"
Azure's eyes narrowed now, realizing something off now as he murmured, "It's just as I thought… that's not a Mightyena! Quick use Detect!"
*SHIII*
Mightyena's eyes glow red, and it raises its front two paws into the air. Its body then becomes surrounded in a crimson aura...
*BAM*
… 'Mightyena' then brings its paws down to the ground, and a pink and crimson force field of energy appears around its body and expands outwards throughout the whole battlefield. It reaches to Sceptile position…
*Wooosh*
But the Forest Pokémon managed to use Detect in time to avoid the attack, jumping high into the air. It clung to the ceiling, eyes narrowed as Sidney uttered, impressed, "Oi! Good reaction time there. But judging the look in your eyes, you figured it out, did ya?"
*Thud*
Sceptile landed down as Azure slyly smiled as he explained bluntly, "Yeah. Night Daze is a dead giveaway to those who know Zoroark's signature move. Right?"
Sidney's grin widened as he saw no need to hide, "Bingo! Zoroark!"
*Shiii*
The 'Mightyena' shimmered, its form dissolving into a wave of dark energy as it phased out of existence, Zoroark's true form briefly glimpsed—a humanoid fox with a wild mane, with its arm crossed with a sly grin, "Zooo! (How'd you like the act, Gecko?)"
Sceptile snorted as it growled, responding, "Sceee! (Tch. Damn illusionist.)"
Azure nodded, a small smirk playing on his lips. He was impressed with the execution as he replied casually, "I knew it. Illusion, the main ability of Zoroark. Very clever, Sidney. Sceptile, stay sharp."
Sceptile's eyes narrowed as it raised its arms in preparation. Zoroark chuckled as it prepared itself with both Trainers beginning to give each Pokémon a series of orders…
*Zoooom*
Sceptile was the first to go headfirst, using Quick Attack, lunging forward, and landing a Power-Up Punch against Zoroark. It crossed its arms using Protect to defend itself as Sceptile gains +1 Attack…
*SMASH*
*CLANG*
Zoroark is unable to counter the speedy Pokémon's blows, allowing Sceptile to land a stunning hit. It attempts to follow the attack with Leaf Blade…
*Zoooom*
… but Zoroark recovers faster than expected and leaps over Sceptile entirely using Agility, causing it to miss it and hit a nearby wall instead, slicing it…
*SHINNG*
Seeing the attack clean hit Zoroark and Sidney's eyes narrowed as they nodded. The whole room began to twist and contort under Zoroark's control…
*Pooof*
Zoroark moves to attack Sceptile from behind using its Ability Illusion to confuse it and Azure in its clutches by manipulating the terrain under its ability influence. Sceptile turns around to try to catch its opponent.
Sideny ordered fiercely, "Night Slash!"
*SHINNG*
But it's too late, as Zororak lands a Night Slash attack that sends Sceptile flying towards a wall as it slams into it. A resounding thud could be heard as it hit the wall…
*Thud*
Sceptile recovers and springs off the wall to get back into the fight. It leaps toward Zoroark, using Agility, and throws an Energy Ball.
*Zoooom*
*Pew*
Zoroark clearly sees it, as it tries to move, but…
*Rmbl*
Its eyes widened as its feet were stuck, revealing it to be Grass Knot, keeping it in place. It was unable to avoid it and was knocked into the air by the large blast.
*BOOOM*
Zoroark manages to regain its footing quickly and leaps above Sceptile. Sideny then ordered, "Night Slash!"
*Shinng*
Zoroark lands a slash of darkness on Sceptile and follows up with a combo of Night Slashes and Aerial Aces, knocking Sceptile around before kicking it high into the air. It activates its Illusion ability to hide itself.
Sideny then followed up, ordering, "Night Daze!"
*Thud*
Sceptile recovers, landing on the ground and uses Magical Leaf: it forms the energy leaves around its body and spins them to block the incoming blast of darkness...
*WOOOOSH*
Managing to block Night Daze with a wall of leaves, it turns where the shot originated and fires Dragon Pulse at the Illusion Fox Pokémon…
*PEW*
… but Zoroark manages to avoid the enormous blast as it shatters the walls of Sideny's room using Agility and Illusion. Zoroark runs up the wall, using it to get above Sceptile and land its counterattack as Sideny yelled, "Foul Play!"
*Shiii*
*Woooosh*
Zoroark leaps off the wall towards Sceptile and launches a flurry of high-speed kicks filled with Dark Type energy that knock it to the ground.
*Thud*
Zoroark descends after Sceptile, landing a fair distance away. Sceptile sits up, holding his head in pain. But Sidney doesn't allow it the chance, ordering, "Don't bother getting up. Zoroark! Dark Pulse!"
*PEW*
*PEW*
*PEW*
Zoroark unleashes Dark Pulse, which summons multiple orbs of darkness as it is launched at Sceptile. Unable to dodge, Sceptile is pelted by the deadly orbs and begins to get wounded in the process.
However, this seems to anger it more than anything else. But Azure orders as it gets pelted by Dark Pulse, "Sceptile! Push on through using Sytnesis then Strong Style Leaf Blade! Don't let the fox go!"
*Snap*
After healing itself with Synthesis, Sceptile uses Leaf Blade again and charges forward with the grass energy in its leaf wrists... to cut through the storm of Dark Pulse with each swing of its blades...
*SHINNG*
*SHINNG*
Zoroark and Sidney are shocked by its resiliency. Sideny sweated as he thought, 'Are you kidding me!?'
*SHINNG*
Using the energy leaves, Sceptile pummels Zoroark with a devastating combo of strikes that carries the stunned Illusion Fox Pokémon into the air. Landing on its feet, Sceptile then unleashes Bullet Seed…
*PEW*
*PEW*
… the seeds tossed at Zoroark were carried by it as it continued damaging it and came back to the ground. But Sceptile quickly uses its tail, performing Dragon Tail, using it to knock Zoroark up into the air before it can recover.
*SMACK*
Sceptile takes a moment to aim – Energy Ball in hand - and launches it at Zoroark, aimed at the head, before it even hits the ground. Left with no choice, it took the hit…
*KA-BOOOM*
Upon the Energy Ball contacting Zoroark, it exploded as it fell to the ground. Lying on the floor, Zoroark fainted on the ground as Azure smirked, 'It didn't have the best defenses. Offensive stats are scary, but its defensive stats are very lacking…'
Sidney frowned, retrieving his second defeated Pokémon as he thought, 'Two down, and Azure still retained his Pokémon.'
Sidney sighed, recalling his fallen partner. His wicked grin had lessened, replaced by a more contemplative expression. He paused, then smirked as he praised him, "Two down. Your new team is quite potent. I underestimated you. But it takes more than raw power to defeat the Elite Four. Shiftry, it's your turn!"
*Pop*
A swift, humanoid Pokémon with leaf-like blades for arms and a long, white beard emerged: Shiftry, the Dark/Grass Type Pokémon. And it's held item [Focus Sash] suggested a fast, potentially one-hit-KO strategy in mind.
Azure, seeing Shiftry, knew it was a dangerous opponent for Sceptile. Shiftry's Dark/Grass typing made it a dual threat, and its speed was legendary, but thought cautiously, 'But I can't switch out now… not when this is our lead.'
Azure gazed at Sceptile as it nodded with a sly grin. Smiling at this Azure, said bluntly, "I won't switch out. Sceptile got this."
Sceptile grinned as Sidney smirked as he commanded, "You won't get a third! Shiftry, use Aerial Ace!"
*Zoooom*
Shiftry zipped across the field, its Aerial Ace aimed directly at Sceptile. Azure commanded urgently, "Dodge with Dragon Dance, and counter with your own Aerial Ace!"
*Wooosh*
Sceptile whirled away from the incoming Aerial Ace as it increased its speed and attack by +1 Stage. And turning around, its leaves blades turned bluesish white as it countered with an Aerial Ace against Shiftry.
*Shinng*
Shiftry recoiled in pain from the attack as Sceptile landed lightly, its sharp leaves gleaming under the lights. It gazed at Shiftry with focused intensity.
Azure followed up further, "Fury Cutter!"
Sidney yelled, "Shiftry, Sucker Punch!"
*Zoooom*
Shifty swiftly rushed in, having priority as it moves its leafy hand coated with Dark Type energy, intercepting Fury Cutter. But Azure countered, "Detect into Aerial Ace!"
*Wooosh*
Sceptile moved with impossible velocity, relying purely on its raw speed, and Speed Stat increases its prior battle with Zoroark. It dodged the anticipated Sucker Punch—a testament to its recent, intensive training—and its tail split into two blades, delivering a rapid-fire Aerial Ace.
*SHINNG*
*SHINNG*
Both strikes landed with devastating impact, striking the Grass/Dark-type at high speed. Shiftry crumpled under the force, unable to withstand the super-effective dual strikes as it fainted. Azure exhaled, feeling the momentum shift entirely to his side, "Three down!"
Sidney's grin had vanished, replaced by a scowl of professional frustration as he said, "You don't waste a single move, do you? Your new team may lack the history, but they possess the ferocity of starved apex predators."
Azure merely smirked as he repeated himself in a confident voice, tapping his Poke Balls on his belt, looking down, "I told you before. I'll win with any team. And these Pokémon have been with me through the Hoenn Region. It wouldn't be fair to them if I used my old partners for the job when they can win. After all…"
Azure turned to Sidney as he finished saying his piece, proudly declaring, "… Strong Pokémon. Weak Pokémon. That is only the selfish perception of people. Truly skilled trainers should try to win with their favorites. Wouldn't you agree?"
Sidney merely smirked with a subtle nod, replying, "Touche."
With that, Sidney regained his control as he thought seriously, 'This is going to be tough. But I won't be defeated till I take down one of his Pokémon! Time to show this punk… the aesthetics of the Dark Side!'
Sidney, undeterred, took a deep breath, a calculated risk brewing behind his eyes. He hurled his next Poké Ball with a decisive flourish. He declared, his grin returning, "The best defense… is the best offense! Go, Sharpedo!"
*Pop*
A torrent of water burst forth as Sharpedo, a creature of raw, aquatic power, materialized on the sandy battlefield. Its [Muscle Band] gleamed, a clear indication of its offensive intent. Azure remained vigilant.
While Sceptile held a type advantage, he knew Sidney wouldn't unleash his Sharpedo unless he had a concealed strategy. He kept Sceptile on the field, his eyes narrowed in assessment.
Sidney grinned as he ordered, "Sharpdeo! Ice Fang!"
*Zoooom*
Sharpedo, a blur of motion, surged forward, its jaws opening to unleash a biting torrent of icy energy – Ice Fang. Azure's command was instantaneous, "Sceptile, Detect!"
*Wooosh*
With an almost invisible shift in stance, Sceptile evaded the chilling bite, the icy fangs missing their mark by a hair's breadth. And then Azure added, "Use this chance to use Giga Drain Sceptile!"
*Shiii*
As Sharpedo recoiled, Sceptile retaliated, using Giga Drain, sending a surge of life-sapping energy towards the predatory fish. Sharpedo staggered, its health severely depleted, but it refused to fall, its resolve as sharp as its teeth.
Azure felt a prickle of unease, an instinct honed by countless battles, as he thought cautiously, 'Throwing another attack could be Sceptile's undoing. That's what my instincts are telling me if I attacked…'
Sidney's Sharpedo, despite the damage, was still a potent threat, and its sheer ferocity was undeniable. He needed to control the flow of the battle, to drain Sharpedo's strength while preserving his own.
Thus, Azure decided to be on the safe side. Azure ordered, "Sceptile, Leech Seed!"
*Plop*
As Sharpedo lunged again, its mouth agape for another Ice Fang, Sceptile moved with renewed purpose. A small, verdant seed detached from its fronds, arcing through the air. It embedded itself into Sharpedo's tough hide just as the Ice Fang missed once more.
*Woooosh*
Sceptile, not content to simply evade, activated Agility, its movements becoming a blur of green. The Leech Seed began its insidious work, siphoning Sharpedo's life force and channeling it back to Sceptile, replenishing its energy and reinforcing its stamina.
Sharpedo, weakened and increasingly sluggish, let out a frustrated roar, "SHARRR!!! (Damn it! Just hit me so I can take you down!!)"
The tide was turning, slowly, but surely, in Azure's favor. This dance of dodging and draining, of calculated strikes and strategic evasion, was exactly the kind of tactical chess match Azure relished.
Sidney's aggressive approach was inadvertently fueling Sceptile's recovery, a testament to the effectiveness of Azure's careful planning. Finally, Sharpedo fainted, losing its health as it plopped down.
*Thud*
Sidney sighed, a hint of curiosity in his voice as he asked curiously, "I have to admit, I'm impressed. Did you suspect my Sharpedo had Destiny Bond? That's why you dodged its attacks, letting the chip damage wear it down, wasn't it?"
Azure nodded, a faint smile touching his lips as he replied sheepishly, "It was a gut feeling. If it had Destiny Bond, playing it safe with Sceptile dodging would have been the wisest course. I'm glad I trusted my instincts."
Sidney let out a low chuckle in his tone, "A keen instinct indeed..."
Two Pokémon remained in Sidney's arsenal, but his unconcerned demeanor suggested he held a powerful hand. He grinned as he declared, "Now, let's see how you handle my new ace in the making! A Pokémon I've trained extensively in Unova, and one that has seen me through countless battles! Go, Hydreigon!"
*Pop*
The formidable dragon-type Pokémon materialized from its Poké Ball, emitting an aura of raw, destructive power. Hydreigon's [Life Orb] seemed to pulse with dark energy, amplifying its already terrifying presence.
Azure's eyes narrowed, and Sceptile tensed beside him, both sensing the immense threat emanating from their opponent as they thought, 'This is a tough opponent…'
Sidney boomed, "Draco Meteor!"
*RMBL*
*KA-BOOOOM*
Hydregion opened its three mouths and unleashed a cascade of fiery meteors that rained down from the ceiling, threatening to obliterate everything in their path.
Azure's command was immediate and resolute, "Strong Style Outrage!"
Sceptile, fueled by a tempest of emerald fury, charged headfirst into the celestial bombardment. It weaved and struck, its Outrage attack a devastating whirlwind of green energy, cleaving through the meteors.
*BASH*
Sceptile met Hydreigon's draconic might, exchanging a brutal flurry of blows. However, the side effect of Outrage soon took hold, leaving Sceptile disoriented.
Azure, anticipating this, had prepared with his solution as he ordered, "Slam your head to the ground, Sceptile!"
*BAM*
With a sharp, focused movement, Sceptile slammed his head against the ground, snapping himself out of his confusion with remarkable speed. Sidney's grin widened, impressed by Azure's tactical prowess and Sceptile's resilience, 'Hahaha!! Not a bad idea, champ!'
He roared, and Hydreigon unleashed another furious assault, "Not bad, champ! Hydreigon! Go all out! Dragon Tail!"
*Whip*
The serpentine attack whipped towards Sceptile. But Azure countered, "Agile Style Dual Chops Sceptile!"
*SMACK*
Sceptile met the Dragon Tail with a rapid succession of precise, powerful chops, expertly deflecting the blow. Azure saw his opening.
*SMACK*
*SMACK*
He continued to press the close-range advantage, luring the massive Hydreigon into an exchange of physical blows. Just as the dragon Pokémon was within striking distance, Azure unleashed his final command, "Now! Dragon Pulse! Point-blank!"
*PEW*
A concentrated blast of emerald energy erupted from Sceptile's maw, slamming directly into Hydreigon's chest. The impact was devastating, staggering the dragon-type and leaving it on the brink.
*BOOOM*
Pokémon skid back from the Dragon Pulse. Both trainers knew this was it.
The next strike would decide the victor. Azure met Sceptile's gaze, a silent understanding passing between them as he commanded, "Give it everything you have, Sceptile. Give it your all! Strong Style Dragon Pulse!!"
Sidney, his face set in a determined grimace, issued his own final command, "Draco Meteor! Unleash it all!"
*KA-BOOOOM*
*RMBL*
As the fiery barrage began anew, Sceptile unleashed its own final, desperate Dragon Pulse. The blast, infused with all Sceptile's remaining strength, fractured into multiple smaller projectiles, each one capable of felling a falling meteor.
*BOOOM*
*BOOOOM*
*BOOOOOM*
Sceptile fought valiantly, a green storm against the celestial onslaught, but the sheer number and size of the meteors were overwhelming. Many still crashed to the ground, erupting in a blinding explosion of dust and debris.
For a tense moment, the chamber was lost in a swirling haze. Then, as the dust began to settle, a stark image emerged.
Hydreigon, its mighty form riddled with the lingering effects of Sceptile's relentless assault and the final Dragon Pulse, swayed unsteadily before collapsing to the sandy floor, defeated.
*Thud*
On the other side of the arena, Sceptile, utterly spent, took a knee, its breathing ragged but even. It used Synthesis to steadily recover its stamina as the silence that followed was profound, broken only by the sound of Azure's own steady breathing.
Azure grinned happily, praising his partner, "Good work, Sceptile. You've done well."
Sceptile steadily got up with a sly grin, making a small cry, "Sceep! (Heh.)"
He returned his fallen ace. Sidney murmured, shaking his head with genuine respect, "Unbelievable. That was a battle for the ages, Azure. Thank you, Hydreigon. You fought with everything you had."
Azure returned his partner as well, feeling the heat of the spent Poké Ball in his hand as he replied, "Thank you, Sceptile. Rest well. You've earned it."
Sidney, despite being down to his last Pokémon, retained his confident grin. He declared, "Alright, Azure. Down to the wire. You've seen my powerhouses, now meet the true harbinger of disaster."
He produced his last Poké Ball, a gleaming scarlet and white sphere, and boldly roared, "Absol! Let's show him why we fear the dark!"
*Pop*
Absol, the Disaster Pokémon, appeared, looking regal and ominously calm. Crucially, it bore the glow of a held Mega Stone: the [Absolite].
Azure knew exactly what to do. The battle had reached its final, defining moment as he hurled his own Poké Ball, "Salamence! Let's take to the air!"
*Pop*
Azure countered, sending out the majestic Dragon/Flying-type as it roared fiercely. And it's held item fittingly holding a [Salamencite].
Azure started things off with the element of surprise, commanding, "Strong Style Flamethrower, Salamence!"
*Fwp*
Flapping its wings, it took to the air. And opening its maw…
*Sssss*
It unleashed a searing column of fire that rushed towards Absol. Absol, however, was already in motion as Sidney countered, "Psycho Cut!"
*SHINNG*
Absol sliced the air, a glowing blade of psychic energy effortlessly cleaving the Flamethrower in half. It then vanished into the smoke, rushing forward low to the ground in preparation. Sidney yelled, "Megahorn!"
*Zoooom*
Absol lunged, its horn aimed for Salamence's chest. And using Quick Attack, it dashes ahead, but Azure countered, "Dragon Tail, block it!"
*Whip*
*CRACK*
Salamence dipped, its massive, armored tail intercepting the horn with a deafening CRACK. Both Pokémon skidded back through the sand.
Azure and Sidney exchanged a fierce, shared grin. They both understood that they were dealing with the final, ultimate level of power.
Azure called out, his voice carrying unmistakable gravity, "Sidney. Let's end this with everything we have. Full power, now!"
Sidney nodded, his hand rising to touch the Key Stone integrated into the Mega Ring, and replied, "Agreed. Absol, transcend!"
*Shiii*
A flash of brilliant light erupted from the [Absolite]. The energy surged around the Disaster Pokémon, its fur turning white and flowing, and massive, feathered wings sprouting dramatically from its back.
Mega Absol, a creature of fearsome, dark elegance, let out a piercing shriek, "Awooo!! (Time to crush you!)"
Azure lifted his wrist, feeling the familiar warmth of his own Key Stone glove roared, "Salamence! Overcome the skies! Mega Evolve!"
*Shiii*
Salamence was enveloped in a celestial glow, transforming into its Mega form. Its body became streamlined and aerodynamic, its wings merging into a powerful, crescent-shaped airfoil as it floated over the field.
Mega Salamence was ready for the high-altitude war as it roared defiantly, "Graooo!!! (Time to die, furball!!)"
Azure grinned as he commanded, "Steel Wing!"
*Fwp*
*Zoooom*
Mega Salamence wasted no time, diving low with incredible speed. But Sidney countered, ordering, "Meet head on! Megahorn!"
*Zoooom*
The metallic edge of the crescent wing slammed down, but Mega Absol countered instantly, meeting the blow perfectly with its Megahorn…
*CLANG*
The collision sent shockwaves rippling through the air, displacing the deep sand below. Salamence backed off, utilizing its maneuverability as Azure ordered, "Agile Style Dragon Claw! Followed by Flamethrower!"
*SWIPE*
The Mega Dragon unleashed a series of intense, clawing swipes that forced Mega Absol back. Then, opening its mouth unleashed a concentrated stream of fire that hammered into the Dark-type.
*Ssssss*
Mega Absol absorbed the hit, its fierce gaze unwavering. Sidney commanded, "Dark Pulse! Volley attack!"
*PEW*
*PEW*
*PEW*
Mega Absol unleashed a rapid series of surging waves of dark energy, forcing Mega Salamence to climb high to avoid the hits. It soared through the air, looking for an opportunity to retaliate as it dodged attacks.
Azure knew he needed to utilize his partner's greatest strength—its new ability, Aerilate, which transformed all Normal-type attacks into powerful Flying-type STAB moves—seeing a chance, he took it, commanding, "Salamence! Finish this! Hyper Beam!"
*PEW*
The energy gathered in Mega Salamence's mouth was colossal, turning from a fierce yellow to a brilliant, cerulean blue as Aerilate took hold. This was not a normal Hyper Beam; it was a Flying-type cataclysm. The devastating, pressurized cannon of blue energy tore through the air, overpowering the incoming Dark Pulse waves and striking Mega Absol with full force…
*KA-BOOOM*
The resulting explosion was immense, bathing the arena in light and sound. When the light faded, Mega Absol stood for a moment, its form flickering, before its body shimmered and reverted to its standard appearance.
*Thud*
It tottered, then collapsed into the sand, unconscious. The silence that descended was absolute, save for Azure's heavy breathing.
*Fwp*
Mega Salamence, also reverting to its normal form, gently landed, its wings flexing wearily. Sidney stared at the defeated Absol, then back at Azure, his eyes wide with genuine awe as he thought, 'That son of a bitch did it…'
He returned his final partner with a respectful salute. Sidney said calmly, walking towards the center of the arena, extending a hand, "I'm amazed. Your ability to predict, to minimize risk, and then to maximize your partner's abilities... that Aerilate Hyper Beam was a masterstroke. You are even stronger than your reputation suggests."
Azure grasped his hand firmly, a mutual respect passing between them as he replied, "And you, Sidney, are a brilliant tactician. Sharpedo's Destiny Bond and Hydreigon's sheer force kept me honest. That truly was an unforgettable battle."
With the battle concluded, Azure produced Full Restores and swiftly tended to his three exhausted partners—Sceptile, Milotic, and Salamence—returning them to a state of full vitality. He needed them for the challenges ahead.
He clipped their balls back onto his belt, a renewed sense of purpose filling him. Sidney gestured toward the far end of the chamber, where a massive, stone doorway now slid open, revealing the path to the next Elite Four member.
Sidney admitted, his voice low, his grin returning, a touch less wicked now, and far more sincere as he said respectfully, "You aren't just a Champion by name. You're a tactical monster. That Milotic setup was audacious, and the synergy of your Hoenn team is terrifying for such a short training time."
He stepped aside, gesturing toward the archway leading to the next chamber as he said boldly, "Go on. The Ghost-type awaits. But know this: you just set a new standard for arrogance, and somehow—you backed it up perfectly. I wish you luck. The others won't be easy, especially when you hit the Champion. Your true gauntlet begins now."
Azure nodded, the fatigue of the intense, fast-paced battle settling into his shoulders. The challenge had been everything he hoped for: intense, strategic, and a true test of his ability to develop power from scratch.
He clipped his balls back securely, his mind already calculating defenses against Ghost-types. Azure gave a sly, confident grin, the Indigo champion ready to etch his name into the history of Hoenn.
*Tmp*
*Tmp*
He stepped out of the dark specialist's sandy chamber and moved forward, towards the spectral domain of Phoebe, ready for the next test. He had done it.
The first hurdle of the Hoenn Elite Four had been cleared, a testament to his skill, his strategic mind, and the unwavering loyalty of his partners. But now… The Hoenn League challenge had only just begun.
/////
A/N: Reach the goal of 150 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!