Chapter 340: Elite Four Ghost Battle [Bonus]
~Third POV~
[Hoenn Region, Pokémon League (Hoenn) – Phoebe's Room]
After defeating Sidney, leaving his room, Azure continued forward as the passage to Phoebe's room changed. This passage was flanked by hanging stalks of lavender whose fragrance mingled strangely with the dampness of the air.
Below, spectral water lilies, glowing with an ethereal blue light, floated on unnaturally still black ponds. As Azure strode down the wooden bridge, eight lanterns affixed to the stone walls flared to life, not by flame, but by inhabiting spirits that swirled inside the glass.
The light they cast was a soft, unsettling lavender. He arrived at the gate, which swung inward silently, revealing Phoebe's chamber.
The room was vast and dominated by purple, an inverse reflection of a haunted house. Stone walls, crumbling with deliberate imperfection, suggested ancient decay.
On either side of the central battle platform were gaping pits—not sandy traps like Sidney's, but simply dark voids, absorbing all light and radiating the palpable chill. A single purple armchair rested near the far wall, and in it sat Phoebe, the Ghost-Type Elite Four member.
Azure paused, taking in the scene and the woman who governed it. She was slender, youthful, and strikingly casual, given the gravity of the setting. Her short, spiky black hair framed a tan face and bright blue eyes.
The two-piece, blue strapless dress, adorned with white flowers and the subtle Pokémon league logo, seemed entirely impractical for an indoor setting designed to feel like a crypt. She was barefoot, save for a single red ankle bracelet, and Hawaiian-style cornflowers sat jauntily at the sides of her head.
Phoebe stood up, her smile wide and genuinely cheerful, contrasting sharply with the menacing energy of the room. She chirped, tilting her head, greeting him, "Welcome, Challenger! You certainly didn't waste any time with Sidney. The dark passage suits some trainers, but you seem like a bright light."
Azure returned a polite, measured smile, reaching a hand instinctively to the collar of his jacket. The cold permeated the room; it was the kind of cold that seemed to draw the warmth out of bone as he replied, "Thank you, Phoebe. It's an honor to meet one of Hoenn's finest."
He genuinely meant it, but his curiosity momentarily overcame his League decorum. He glanced from the spectral voids to her light attire couldn't help but ask, "Forgive me for asking, but with this… atmosphere—aren't you cold in that?"
Phoebe merely shrugged, her red flowers bobbing slightly as she nonchalantly replied, "Oh, this? It doesn't bother me. Ghost types are excellent heat sinks, you know. Besides, I like feeling the energy of the spirits around me. It's stimulating!"
She took a step closer to the edge of the battlefield, her blue eyes gleaming with anticipation. She stated the rules bluntly, "Sidney already covered the basic rules, I assume? Good. Then let's get straight to it. This will be a full 6v6 challenge. Show me why Kanto's champion has traveled all this way to face us! I'm ready to be spooked."
*THUMP*
The pressure that emanated from her shadow was disarming. Despite the cute smile and cheerful demeanor, Azure knew this was an intentional trap—a psychological tactic designed to make him underestimate the raw power of her Pokémon.
He wiped a stray bead of sweat from his forehead, chuckling lightly. Azure confirmed, stepping up to his side of the arena, "A full 6v6 then. I accept the challenge!"
Phoebe's expression turned serious, the spectral lavender light catching the intensity in her eyes as she cheerfully grinned, declaring excitedly, "Excellent. Then let's start with a surprise! My first dancing partner is ready! Go, Banette!"
*Swooosh*
Coming out from her shadow, the puppet Pokémon materialized, its stitched mouth set in a permanent, unnerving grin. It clung to a [Quick Claw], a clear signal that speed and surprise were its immediate goals.
Azure recognized the threat. Ghost-types, especially Banette, thrive on inflicting debilitating status effects or painful passive damage early.
He had prepared a unique answer. He hurled his choice, declaring, "Slaking, come out and play big guy!"
*Pop*
*THUD*
The massive Alpha Slaking emerged, its sheer bulk dominating the center of the arena. It held its [Leftovers], ready for a sustained fight. Phoebe's eyes widened slightly in satisfied anticipation as she commanded excitedly, "An Alpha Slaking! Such power, but so slow to start. Banette, use Curse!"
*SPLAT*
The moment Banette began to gather the ghostly energy for the self-sacrificing move, Azure's gut screamed. Curse would instantly halve his strongest Pokémon's HP and render it near-useless for the remainder of the battle.
Azure shouted, executing the emergency recall, "Slaking, return immediately!"
The Alpha Pokémon dissolved back into its ball just as the spectral energy slammed into the ground where it had stood. Azure had avoided the worst of the psychic drain, but he had burned a turn.
He wasted no time. He grabbed a Poke Ball from his belt and hurled it, declaring, "Gardevoir, stand ready!"
*Pop*
A cascade of emerald light introduced Gardevoir. It entered the field with graceful precision, her gaze already fixed on the malevolent puppet, the [Gardevoirite] attached to its neck glowing faintly.
Phoebe frowned slightly as she commented before ordering, "A good switch, but you can't escape pure malice! Banette, Shadow Ball!"
*PEW*
The dark orb of spectral power shot toward the Fairy-Psychic type. Azure had planned for this velocity as he countered, "Gardevoir, Future Sight! Redirect that attack!"
*Swf*
Gardevoir extended a hand, and instead of blocking or dodging, it focused its immense psychic power. A rippling vortex of purple energy opened just in front of the Shadow Ball, swallowing the attack whole, only to vanish into nothingness.
The power of the attack had been shunted into the fabric of time. Phoebe smiled further as she thought excitedly, 'This challenger is clever, but predictable in his desire to stall. But very clever use of Future Sight!'
Phoebe clasped her hands together as she commented happily, "Clever! But I've been waiting for a physical opportunity. Banette, Shadow Claw!"
*Zoooom*
The [Quick Claw] triggered immediately. Banette surged forward with unnatural speed, its sharpened claws glowing with dark energy, closing the distance between itself and Gardevoir in a heartbeat.
Azure knew he couldn't outpace the item. But he trusted his Pokémon as he ordered, "Gardevoir, hold position! Use this chance for Calm Mind."
Just as Banette raised its spectral claws for the strike, a miniature psychic portal ripped open in the air directly behind the charging puppet…
*Swf*
… The Shadow Ball Gardevoir that had been banished moments earlier burst forth from the rift, traveling back in time and space to slam with devastating force into Banette's back. The timing was flawless…
*BOOOM*
The Ghost-type shrieked as the massive impact drove it headlong into the ground. When the purple dust settled, Banette was motionless, instantly defeated by its own attack. Just as both Azure and Gardevoir had planned.
*Drip*
Gardevoir, utterly untouched by the attempted physical assault, took the opportunity afforded by the distraction. A soft, powerful aura enveloped it. Gardevoir floated slightly higher, absorbing the psychic energy of the arena and channeling it inward.
Its Special Attack and Special Defense stats rose by +1 Stage. Azure had turned a defensive switch into a rapid, strategic setup.
Phoebe, though defeated in the first round, clapped her hands cheerfully. "Oh, that was delightful! A temporal counterattack! I haven't seen that since..."
She trailed off, still grinning. Phoebe clapped slowly, her unsettling grin never fading as she said excitedly, "Well played. Future Sight is always a gamble, but you have impressive foresight. But I still have five more spirits ready to play."
*Swooosh*
From the deepening shadows near the back wall, a monolithic figure emerged. Azure recognized this one being Dusknoir as it appeared. Phoebe smirked as she ordered, "Dusknoir, time to turn the arena on its head! Trick Room!"
*Shiii*
Phoebe's formidable Dusknoir, its single eye glowing menacingly, appeared, its held [Punching Glove] shimmering faintly. It slammed its massive hand together, creating a warped reality field around the arena.
The movement was slow, deliberate, and impossibly heavy. Azure frowned, recognizing the shift in strategy as he thought cautiously, 'Trick Room means the slower Pokémon would move first for the next few minutes, completely sabotaging my team's natural speed advantage. Not good but I get a free move…'
Azure ordered, capitalizing on the slow turn setup using this free move, "Gardevoir, another Calm Mind!"
*Drip*
As the Trick Room took effect, Dusknoir finished its maneuver. Gardevoir, now radiating a +2 boost in Sp. Attack and Defense were ready for the fight.
Phoebe cried, "Dusknoir, now!"
*Zooooom*
The massive Ghost-type, despite its bulk, suddenly vanished, utilizing the shadows to exploit its inherent slow speed under the Trick Room effect. It reappeared directly behind the elegant Gardevoir.
Phoebe smirked and ordered, "Thunder Punch!"
*SMASH*
The [Punching Glove]-wrapped fist ignited with raw electrical energy and slammed into Gardevoir's back. Gardevoir cried out, reeling violently from the effective physical blow, its built-up defenses unable to fully nullify the attack.
Azure shouted, urging his partner to ignore the pain, "Gardevoir! Miracle Eye!"
*Snap*
Even while staggering, Gardevoir managed to focus its psychic energy, casting a shimmering targeting field over Dusknoir. The move was successful, guaranteeing accuracy checks and removing any evasion boosts.
Azure knew the danger. Gardevoir was faster than Dusknoir, which meant under Trick Room, Dusknoir would always strike first.
Azure commanded, needing to neutralize the threat immediately, "Hypnosis!"
Phoebe countered sharply, "Shadow Punch, Dusknoir, before it can finish!"
*SMASH*
Dusknoir's attack landed first, a swift, dark blow that ripped through Gardevoir's already battered defenses. The impact was severe, leaving the Embrace Pokémon barely conscious, flickering with distress…
*Shiii*
But the final command held. Despite the grievous injury, Gardevoir completed its move. A wave of soporific energy washed over the slow-moving Dusknoir, and the massive Ghost-type slumped where it stood, instantly falling into a deep slumber.
Azure let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding as he murmured proudly, "It worked. Miracle Eye plus Hypnosis—no accuracy check needed!"
With Dusknoir inert and vulnerable, the strategy was simple: drain. Gardevoir, though hurt, was safe for the time being. Azure commanded calmly, "Gardevoir, Strong Style Dream Eater! Restore yourself!"
*Pooof*
A ribbon of purple energy flowed from the sleeping Dusknoir straight into Gardevoir. The Embrace Pokémon visibly stabilized, its injuries beginning to close, its psychic aura strengthening as it consumed the energy of its opponent's dreams.
Phoebe's cheerful demeanor fractured slightly as she pleaded for her Pokémon, "Dusknoir, wake up! You mustn't lose now!"
*Pooof*
But the sleep was deep, induced by high-level psychic power. Turn after turn, Gardevoir utilized Dream Eater consecutively, draining Dusknoir's life force and continuously healing itself, reversing the damage inflicted by the physical blows…
*Pooof*
Finally, with a weary shudder, Dusknoir collapsed, defeated without ever landing a meaningful attack after the Trick Room was established. Gardevoir stood victorious, fully healed, but paused momentarily, letting out a small, quiet, and slightly embarrassed burp—a side effect of consuming so much spectral energy, "Gaaa – Burp! (Oh my how embarrassing!)"
Azure chuckled lightly at his partner's pouty reaction. Azure said proudly, his voice regaining its confidence, "You're facing the Champion's Gardevoir, Phoebe. We don't just hit hard; we hit smart."
Phoebe's smile returned, though it was now edged with a feral calculation as she replied smugly, gazing at them, "Smart is good, Azure. But I have a Pokémon who knows how to hold onto its prey."
*Swooosh*
Stepping out from the shadows of the broken stones, a massive, ornate sarcophagus materialized. It was Cofagrigus, its golden body adorned with intricate blue and red markings, holding a glowing [Life Orb] that pulsed with raw power.
Azure recognized the danger. He wanted to switch out Gardevoir to shake off the severe damage and potential status, but he knew the risk of taking a high-power [Life Orb] Shadow Ball.
Azure thought critically, analyzing the situation cautiously, 'If I switch to Slaking, it would get rid of its Truant Ability if it contacts Cofagrigus Mummy Ability.'
However, Phoebe considered that as she snapped, her voice suddenly sharp and commanding, "Cofagrigus, Mean Look! Lock it down!"
*SNAP*
The mummy Pokémon's four spectral arms extended, its eyes locking onto Gardevoir. A transparent, ghostly chain wrapped around the fainted Dusknoir's spot and secured itself around Gardevoir, trapping it on the battlefield.
Azure cursed internally as he wore a bitter expression, 'Right… Cofagrigus has horrible speed stats, but with this Trick Room active, it's the right call. Trapped, slow due to Trick Room, and facing a high-damage user. This was exactly the scenario Phoebe wanted. At least she can't use its high Sp. Attack Moves because of my Gardevoir's high and boosted Sp. Defense…'
Phoebe pressed her advantage as she commanded excitedly, "Trick Room is still active! Cofagrigus, Shadow Claw!"
*Zoooom*
Phoebe rightly assumed that Gardevoir's now heavily boosted Special Defense would shrug off her Ghost-type's stronger special attacks. She relied on Cofagrigus's physical attack against Gardevoir's natural weakness.
Even if Cofagrigus' Physical Attack Stats aren't the greatest, its high Physical and Special Defenses were high enough to use along with slow speed was the perfect answer against Azure's Gardevoir.
Azure realized this, but also knew the effects of Mean Look. He grits his teeth as he yelled fiercely, "Gardevoir! Confusion! Form a kinetic barrier!"
*Shiii*
*CLANG*
The trapped Gardevoir thrust its hands out, creating a shimmering, pulsing blue field of psychic energy just as Cofagrigus lunged forward with its sharpened claws. The attack struck the barrier, cracking the psychic shield but failing to penetrate fully.
Phoebe smiled, confidently, as she explained her plan wholeheartedly in a childish voice, "Miracle Eye might let you hit us, Azure, but Mean Look guarantees I hit you! You can't use Protect or Detect with Mean Look active and with the Trick Room speed advantage, and you can't run. It's only a matter of time."
Azure nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. He couldn't risk another direct Shadow Claw.
He needed one last, desperate maneuver. With his back cornered, Azure ordered, "Gardevoir, Strong Style Dazzling Gleam! Push it back!"
*FLASH*
Gardevoir unleashed a blinding flash of pure Fairy energy, trying to overload or push back the Cofagrigus. But Phoebe was ready as she countered, "Don't think so, mister! Phantom Force! Disappear!"
*Swf*
Cofagrigus dissolved into the ground just as the Fairy attack washed over the field, negating the hit and preparing for its signature phase attack. Azure exclaimed, hoping to utilize the psychic escape route before the physical force of Phantom Force hit, "Now, Gardevoir! Teleport! Get out of there!"
*Swf*
But Phantom Force was faster. Cofagrigus rematerialized behind Gardevoir, shrouded in spectral darkness, striking a brutal, physical blow…
*SMACK*
*Thud*
Gardevoir was slammed onto the broken brick floor, the attack hitting with devastating force. Azure thought it was over, seeing his Pokémon in pain, but then heard Gardevoir's voice with its Hidden Ability Telepathy, 'Master, I'm not done yet! Taking this hit was all according to plan!'
*Shiii*
However, in the instant of contact, utilizing the proximity forced by the attack, Gardevoir unleashed one final burst of focused energy directly into the Cofagrigus. Azure's eyes widened as he grinned, "Hypnosis!"
Phoebe watched in horror as her mighty Cofagrigus, having just landed a decisive hit, froze mid-attack. Its gilded body listed heavily, and it fell asleep, momentarily freed from the intensity of the [Life Orb].
Azure stood silent for a moment, letting the tactical brilliance of his partner sink in. Gardevoir, weakened but resolute, slowly levitated back up, fixing its hypnotic eyes on the slumbering phantom.
Azure, releasing a sigh of relief, whispered, victory assured, "You scared me, their Gardevoir, but finish this. Dream Eater."
*Pooof*
The sequence repeated—the ethereal draining energy, the slow, agonizing defeat of the trapped Ghost-type, and the total restoration of Gardevoir's health. The Embrace Pokémon had entered the field injured and fought through the speed reversal of Trick Room, the trapping of Mean Look, and the physical assaults of three powerful Ghost-types.
And yet Gardevoir came out on top. It grinned happily, devouring Cofagrigus' sweet dreams, refueling its stamina and health.
*Thud*
Cofagrigus sank into the dark void of the pit beneath it, defeated. Azure's Gardevoir, a Psychic-Fairy vampire, stood triumphantly, its psychic shielding flaring brightly in the oppressive purple light, having solidified its status as a total counter to Phoebe's first three partners.
Phoebe's smile was finally and truly gone, replaced by a look of intense respect and bitter frustration. She had lost half her team, and her opponent was healthier than when the battle first started…
*CRACK*
And just as Cofagrigus fell, the shimmering, distorted field of Trick Room flickered and vanished completely. Phoebe, realizing the immense power Gardevoir was now wielding, her brow furrowed in concentration, 'This fairy-type vampire is a threat. I need to take it out… NOW!!'
She took a deep breath, her cheerful demeanor replaced by a determined glint in her eyes as she declared bluntly with an eerie smile, "Alright, challenger, this one's a special partner. Come out, Chandelure!"
*Swooosh*
From the deepest shadow clinging to Phoebe, a magnificent Chandelure emerged, its flames burning with an intense, violet hue. A subtle glint from its base revealed its held item: a [Life Orb], boosting its attacks at the cost of its own health.
*Sssss*
The air grew perceptibly hotter, contrasting strangely with the chill of the room. The battle reignited with a fierce intensity.
Chandelure, without the hindrance of Trick Room, wasted no time. Phoebe commanded, "Flamethrower, Chandelure!"
*Ssssss*
A searing torrent of fire erupted from Chandelure's arms, racing towards Gardevoir. Azure countered instantly, "Psybeam, Gardevoir!"
*PEW*
Gardevoir focused its psychic energy into a vibrant, multi-colored beam that surged forward. The two attacks collided in a brilliant explosion, sending a cloud of dense smoke billowing across the arena, obscuring both Pokémon.
*BOOOOM*
The cloud of dense smoke billowing across the room made it difficult for the trainers to make a move. But Phoebe called, hoping to inflict a burn through the smoke, "Now, Chandelure, Will-O-Wisp!"
*Sssss*
From within the smoke, several ghostly flames, imbued with a debilitating power, shot towards Gardevoir's last known position. However, Gardevoir, using Telepathy, connected with Azure as he mentally commanded, 'Telekinesis, Gardevoir!'
*Shiii*
Before the Will-O-Wisps could reach her, Gardevoir's eyes glowed, and with a silent, powerful surge of psychic energy, she seized control of the spectral flames. With a flick of her hand, Gardevoir redirected them, sending them hurtling towards the nearby, purple-bricked walls.
*BOOOM*
They struck with a series of sharp cracks, obliterating the wall sections and scattering debris. Azure sighed a breath of relief as he thought, 'Phew… don't want to return it unless it has Flash Fire. Better to keep our momentum.'
Gardevoir responded through they're mental link of Telepathy. Chandelure, momentarily disoriented by the unexpected counter, managed to recover its position within the clearing smoke…
Phoebe commanded, aiming for a debilitating status effect, "Curse!"
Azure commanded, preempting her move, 'Taunt, Gardevoir!'
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's eyes flashed, and a wave of disruptive psychic energy washed over Chandelure, forbidding it from using status moves like Curse as it taunted using Telepathy in a mocking tone, 'Sorry, but your allies were much better fighters than you. I'll be sure to quicken your defeat.'
Chandelure wavered, frustrated, forcing Phoebe to switch her strategy to direct attacks. Phoebe frowned, her thoughts racing cautiously, 'Azure's techniques are incredibly precise. He's anticipating every move. Not only that, but they're in perfect sync… no commands, then he must be using Gardevoir's Hidden Ability Telepathy. In this smoke I have the disadvantage… let's change that.'
She finally ordered, forcing the offensive, "Shadow Ball, Chandelure! Blow this smoke out here, buddy!"
*PEW*
A dark, swirling orb of concentrated spectral energy shot towards Gardevoir. It cut through the smoke, giving clear sight again.
Azure's calm command rang out, "Future Sight, Gardevoir!"
*Swf*
Gardevoir's eyes glowed, and instead of blocking, it allowed the Shadow Ball to pass through her, redirecting its energy into a shimmering, temporal rift that opened and closed in an instant. The Shadow Ball vanished, sent into the future, and Phoebe's expression tightened, now wary of a delayed, unavoidable strike.
She frowned as she thought bitterly, her fist clenched, 'His using that same trick again. It looks simple, but even I don't know where it'll emerge…'
Azure pressed his advantage, "Now, Strong Style Psychic!"
*SHIII*
A powerful wave of pure psychic energy erupted from Gardevoir, slamming into Chandelure and sending it careening into a nearby wall with a metallic clang, its flames flickering dangerously. Chandelure growled in response...
*CLANG*
Chandelure tilted its body, regaining its balance. Phoebe gritted her teeth as she ordered, "Chandelure, Flame Charge! Rush in!"
*Sssss*
Chandelure, despite its damage, surged forward, its flames burning brighter as it gained speed, transforming into a fiery projectile aimed at Gardevoir. Azure simply ordered, his voice unwavering, "Calm Mind, Gardevoir!"
*Drip*
As Chandelure drew closer, Gardevoir once again closed its eyes, focusing its immense mental power. A drip of water was heard signaling the setup was complete, as now Gardevoir's stages were now Sp. Atk +3, Sp. Def +3.
*Swf*
… Just as Chandelure was about to make contact, the temporal rift from Future Sight reappeared directly above it. Chandelure's own Shadow Ball, now imbued with Gardevoir's amplified psychic energy from the Future Sight, slammed down onto it with devastating force.
*BOOOM*
The attack was too much. Chandelure, already weakened, cried out as its flames extinguished completely, its body clattering to the ground, instantly knocked out by the superpowered attacks.
*Thud*
Fainting, it retreated to Phoebe's shadow. Phoebe stared, wide-eyed, then let out a sigh, a faint smile returning to her face as she praised him, "Incredible! Absolutely incredible! You dealt with my Chandelure like it was nothing. Not many trainers can say they've done that. You're truly a master of strategy!"
Phoebe clapped her hands together, her grin widening, a new, unsettling excitement in her eyes. "Oh, this is thrilling! Truly thrilling, Azure! You're really something else!"
*THUMP*
A ghostly aura, far more potent than before, began to emanate from her, swirling around her bare feet and rising to veil her form. It was a subtle transformation, but enough to make Azure and Gardevoir stiffen, their guards rising instinctively.
She announced, her voice gaining a deeper, more resonant tone, "But now, it's time for my new friend to join the dance!"
*Swooosh*
From Phoebe's own shadow, a powerful, spectral dragon materialized, its sleek, jet-black form menacing and agile. It was a Dragapult, its eyes glowing with an eerie intensity, and clamped around its head was an [Expert Belt], signifying its enhanced offensive capabilities.
The air grew heavy, thick with latent energy. Azure commanded, cutting through the tension, "Gardevoir, Double Team!"
*Swooosh*
Gardevoir shimmered, creating multiple illusory copies that danced around the arena, making it difficult for Dragapult to pinpoint the real target. Azure then followed up, "Follow with Confusion!"
*SHIII*
The real Gardevoir unleashed a focused burst of kinetic energy, a vibrant blue projectile that surged towards Dragapult. The spectral dragon, momentarily disoriented by the illusions, took the direct hit, a visible tremor running through its body.
*BOOM*
But Dragapult was built for speed and power. Phoebe countered, her smile never wavering, "Dragapult, Flamethrower!"
*Ssssss*
A torrent of searing orange flames erupted from Dragapult's mouth, sweeping across the arena, scorching the ground, and causing several of Gardevoir's illusions to vanish in shimmering bursts of light. Azure shouted, knowing the raw power of Dragapult's attacks, "Protect, Gardevoir!"
*CLANG*
A transparent, hexagonal barrier shimmered around Gardevoir just in time, deflecting the blazing inferno with a loud hiss of steam and crackling energy. Gardevoir stood firm, but the force of the impact was palpable.
Azure seized the slight pause. His eyes narrowed as he commanded fiercely, "Psychic, Gardevoir! Push it back!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's eyes glowed with intense magenta light, and a wave of raw psychic energy surged towards Dragapult, aiming to destabilize and damage. However, Dragapult was quicker than anticipated.
Phoebe's command was crisp, "Sucker Punch, Dragapult!"
*Zoooom*
Before the Psychic energy could fully engulf it, Dragapult vanished in a blink, only to reappear directly in front of Gardevoir, its shadowy fist connecting with brutal force…
*SMACK*
The Psychic attack dispersed harmlessly as Gardevoir was forced back, skidding several feet across the stone floor, a pained gasp escaping its ethereal lips. Azure asked, his voice laced with concern, "Are you alright, Gardevoir?"
Gardevoir nodded, already recovering, its defenses holding strong. Dragapult, seeing an opening, wasted no time.
Phoebe cried, "Shadow Ball!"
*CACKLE*
A swirling orb of dark, spectral energy began to form between its jaws. Azure's voice was urgent, "Gardevoir, stop it! Future Sight!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's eyes glowed with an even brighter, more complex light. Just as the Shadow Ball was about to impact, a shimmering ripple in space appeared before it…
*Swf*
The dark orb, instead of striking, was seemingly absorbed into this ripple, vanishing as if it had been sent to another time. Dragapult, its attack gone, hovered in confusion for a moment. Phoebe, ever the opportunist, seized this unexpected lull. She commanded with a triumphant grin, "Dragon Dance, Dragapult!"
*Shiii*
A surge of crimson energy enveloped Dragapult as it performed an intricate, aerial dance, its movements becoming even more fluid and powerful. Its Attack and Speed stats visibly increased, making it an even more formidable opponent.
As Gardevoir rebalanced itself, readying for Dragapult's next move, Phoebe pressed her advantage, commanding, "Thunderbolt, now!"
*ZAP*
Crackling arcs of pure electricity erupted from Dragapult, forming a jagged, blinding bolt that slammed into Gardevoir. The Fairy/Psychic type let out a cry of pain as the attack found its mark, but its boosted Special Defense allowed it to tank the hit, though its resolve flickered for a moment.
Dragapult didn't let up, charging in, its body a blur, aiming for a decisive physical blow. But Azure had played a long game…
*Swf*
Mid-charge, a small ripple appeared directly in Dragapult's path, exactly where Gardevoir's Future Sight attack had sent Phoebe's Shadow Ball. The spectral orb from the past materialized with stunning suddenness, aimed directly at Dragapult.
Phoebe, however, was prepared for this specific counter-attack. She shrieked, a wild glee in her eyes, "Phantom Force, Dragapult!"
*Swf*
Just as the Shadow Ball was about to strike, Dragapult dissolved into a ghostly portal, vanishing from sight and narrowly avoiding being hit by its own delayed attack. This gave Azure and Gardevoir a brief, precious window to strategize.
Azure's mind raced as he thought cautiously, 'Dragapult's Phantom Force made it invulnerable when hidden. Direct attacks wouldn't work. I need to anticipate its return and make a counterattack.'
His eyes hardened as he murmured, "Gardevoir, prepare Dazzling Gleam. Attack everything in sight the moment it reappears."
*Shiii*
Gardevoir began to gather shimmering, rainbow-colored energy in its hands, ready to unleash a room-wide burst of Fairy-type power. But before the energy could fully coalesce, the ethereal chill intensified…
*Swf*
*SMACK*
A dark, shimmering portal ripped open behind Gardevoir, and Dragapult burst forth, too swift for the pre-charged attack to react. Phantom Force made brutal contact, slamming into Gardevoir's back…
*CACKLE*
But it wasn't over as Dragapult prepared a follow-up. The blow was followed by another Shadow Ball, a dark sphere impacting Gardevoir before it could fully recover from the physical hit.
*BOOOM*
Azure instructed, his voice tight, "Recover, Gardevoir!"
*Shiii*
A soft, green glow enveloped Gardevoir, mending some of the damage, steadying its form. Azure commanded, "Magical Leaf barrage, Gardevoir!"
*Swooosh*
A flurry of glowing, emerald leaves, imbued with psychic energy, shot forth from Gardevoir, homing in on Dragapult. Several found their mark, scoring solid hits.
Dragapult retaliated with another Shadow Ball, but Gardevoir was ready. Azure ordered, "Telekinesis!"
*Shiii*
The incoming Shadow Ball was halted mid-air, suspended by an invisible psychic force, then harmlessly redirected into one of the shadowy pits. Azure urged, hoping to catch Dragapult before it could escape again, "Now, Agile Style Dazzling Gleam!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's chest began to pulse with brilliant light. But Dragapult was too adept at its hit-and-run tactics…
*Swf*
With another swift motion, before the Dazzling Gleam could fully erupt, it vanished into another Phantom Force portal, evading the attack once more. Gardevoir frowned, seeing it evade its attacks.
Azure frowned, a bead of sweat trickling down his temple as he thought cautiously, 'This was a challenging opponent. Dragapult's constant disappearing acts made it incredibly difficult to pin down…'
His eyes narrowed till an idea formed as he thought calmly, 'Direct attacks weren't working. I needed to know where and when it would appear…'
Azure communicated mentally, using Gardevoir's Hidden Ability, Telepathy, 'Gardevoir. Don't attack. Not yet. Use Future Sight, but not to send an attack. Use it to see. Focus, Gardevoir. See a few seconds into the future. Show me where it will emerge for its next Phantom Force.'
*Shiii*
Gardevoir closed its eyes, its entire being focusing. The ethereal ripple effect around it was different this time – not an offensive glow, but a subtle, shimmering distortion of perception. Its psychic power spread, reaching beyond the present moment, probing the immediate future. A vision unfolded in Gardevoir's mind, shared instantly with Azure: a specific point, a subtle distortion in the air, a fleeting glimpse of Dragapult's re-emergence.
Azure thought, his conviction absolute as his eyes widened, 'There! Gardevoir, now! Strong Style Dazzling Gleam! Max power, and aim it for the entire room, for that exact spot! This time it won't escape us!'
*Shiii*
Gardevoir obeyed, its chest glowing with an indescribably brilliant, multi-hued light. The energy built, hummed, and intensified, illuminating the purple chamber with an otherworldly radiance. It waited.
Phoebe's grin widened, anticipating her Dragapult's next strike. She cried, unaware of the trap laid for her spectral partner, "Phantom Force!"
*Swf*
Then, the second Dragapult ripped open a portal on the precise spot Gardevoir had foreseen, bursting forth with an explosive force, ready to land a devastating Phantom Force. But this time, it was met not by Gardevoir's defense, but by the blinding, overwhelming force of a fully charged Dazzling Gleam.
*FLASH*
The light erupted, filling every corner of the room, a dazzling, inescapable torrent of Fairy-type energy. Dragapult, caught mid-motion, had no time to react, no space to maneuver, no opportunity to use Phantom Force again.
Its eyes widened in shock, then pain, as the brilliant energy consumed it. A guttural cry tore from its spectral throat as the Dazzling Gleam's raw power slammed into it. The light faded, leaving behind the lingering scent of ozone and triumph.
*Thud*
Dragapult's form wavered, flickered, and then, with a final, defeated shudder, it collapsed, fainting. Its shadowy essence receded, returning to Phoebe's shadow, leaving her with only one Pokémon remaining.
Azure let out a relieved breath, Gardevoir standing tall, its light still faintly shimmering. The Indigo Champion had once again navigated a treacherous battle, his intelligence and his partner's power carrying them through.
However, everything was not well on Phoebe's side. Phoebe's usual cheerful demeanor finally faltered, replaced by a bitter frown. Losing Dragapult without taking down a single Pokémon from Azure's side clearly stung…
*THUMP*
The ghostly aura around her intensified, swirling darkly. She murmured, her voice losing its sweetness as she said coldly, "I should've gone all out first, instead of playing around… But I'll correct that mistake now. This is my ace!"
*Swoooosh*
From her shadow, a new, more malevolent presence emerged. Gengar, massive and grinning wickedly, materialized with its own [Gengarite] gleaming around its neck.
It let out a chilling cackle, its red eyes fixed on Azure and Gardevoir. The final battle against Phoebe began.
Azure commanded, "Gardevoir, Psychic!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir launched a forceful wave of telekinetic energy. Gengar, with astonishing agility, flattened its body, becoming almost two-dimensional, and smoothly slid under Gardevoir, dodging the attack with ease.
Azure blinked, seeing that as he thought, 'That's a unique way to dodge…'
But Phoebe retaliated, "Shadow Ball!"
*CACKLE*
Gengar unleashed a volley of dark energy. Azure countered, "Teleport!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir vanished, reappearing milliseconds later above Gengar, avoiding the attack. Azure grinned as he roared, "Now, Psychic Noise!"
*SCREEE*
*Thud*
The unexpected Psychic wave slammed into Gengar, sending the Ghost-type Elite Four's ace crashing against the ceiling with an audible thud. It glared at Gardevoir hatefully, its eyes narrowed.
*CACKLE*
*BOOOOM*
As Gardevoir prepared for another attack, Gengar recovered with incredible speed, launching a quick Shadow Ball that scored a direct hit on Gardevoir. Gardevoir faltered slightly, glaring at Gengar.
Phoebe's voice crackled with renewed intensity, "Now, Azure! Let's truly begin!"
*SHIII*
Simultaneously, both Trainers touched their Key Stones. Azure's keystone on his glove pulsed with vibrant energy, mirroring the one on Phoebe's choker.
Gardevoir transformed, its elegant white gown expanding, its arms becoming graceful blades, radiating immense power. Across the arena, Gengar twisted and swelled, its form becoming more ethereal, glowing with an ominous power, its third eye opening.
Mega Gengar and Mega Gardevoir stood ready, the true clash of titans about to unfold between the two. Phoebe started as she yelled, "Gengar! Shadow Ball barrage!!"
*CACKLE*
*PEW*
*PEW*
*PEW*
Mega Gengar, now free-floating near the ceiling, unleashed a terrifying volley of Shadow Balls, raining down dark energy. Azure yelled, "Gardevoir, Double Team!"
*Swoooosh*
Mega Gardevoir shimmered, creating a multitude of copies that surrounded Mega Gengar as it descended to the ground, deftly avoiding the destructive volleys. The chamber became a kaleidoscope of Gardevoir, each one a potential target.
Azure followed up, ordering, "Psyshock, Gardevoir! Charge it!"
Meanwhile, Gengar, with wicked cunning, used its heightened senses. Phoebe ordered, "Shadow Ball, target them all, Gengar!"
*CACKLE*
*PEW*
*PEW*
Mega Gengar's eyes glowed, and it fired a massive Shadow Ball that split into multiple smaller orbs, striking every single imitation and, crucially, the real Mega Gardevoir.
*BOOOM*
Despite the direct hit, Gardevoir remained steadfast, its powerful defenses holding. It unleashed the charged Psyshock, a torrent of mental energy.
*SHIII*
Mega Gengar, surprisingly nimble for its size, flattened itself once more comically, dodging the attack. Phoebe grinned as she ordered, "Now Shadow Punch!"
*Zoooom*
*SMACK*
It reappeared beside Gardevoir, delivering a swift, powerful Shadow Punch, connecting solidly. Gengar recoiled, preparing its final, devastating Shadow Ball.
Phoebe roared, her voice echoing with dark triumph, "Finish it!"
*CACKLE*
Just as the Shadow Ball began to form, Azure's voice cut through the air, sharp and urgent as he grinned, "Gardevoir, Hypnosis!"
*Shiii*
Mega Gardevoir's eyes glowed with an eerie blue light. A wave of hypnotic energy washed over Mega Gengar, dulling its fiery gaze.
Just as it was about to unleash its attack, its movements faltered, its eyes glazing over. It swayed, then collapsed into a deep, supernatural slumber.
Azure wasted no time. He ordered, "Strong Style Dream Eater!"
*Poof*
Mega Gardevoir's hands extended, glowing with a sinister purple energy. It plunged its psychic tendrils into the sleeping Mega Gengar, drawing out its very life force, its dreams, converting them into restorative power.
Phoebe's eyes widened in horror as she realized, 'Crap! Its Miracle Eye is still active! Hurry and wake up, Gengar!'
However, her pleas fell on deaf ears. Mega Gengar shivered, its ethereal form flickering as its energy rapidly drained. The powerful Ghost-type shuddered, then slowly began to fade, its form dissolving back into Phoebe's shadow.
Phoebe let out a long sigh, a blend of frustration and grudging admiration. She looked at Azure, her cheerful demeanor slowly returning, a genuine smile replacing her earlier wicked grin as she stated, "Well, I certainly didn't expect that! You and Gardevoir gave me and Gengar such a brilliant, hard-fought battle."
Azure nodded, wiping another bead of sweat from his forehead as he replied, "You too, Phoebe. You really pushed us. But together, we managed to come out on top."
Gardevoir, its Mega Evolution shimmering, then fading, reverted to its normal form, nodding happily, its exhaustion momentarily forgotten in its triumph. Azure quickly pulled out a Full Restore, gently dabbing it onto Gardevoir, healing its lingering wounds.
He murmured to his loyal partner, patting its head much to Gardevoir's joy, "We need to be ready for whatever comes next."
Recalling Gardevour, Azure turned to leave. Phoebe's voice called out, "Good luck, Azure! And you too, Gardevoir!"
From the depths of Phoebe's shadow, multiple spectral forms, including Banette, Misdreavus, and Dusclops, emerged, their ethereal bodies waving and shimmering. They let out soft, cheering noises, their ghostly eyes sparkling with admiration.
Azure smiled, a silent nod of thanks to the defeated Elite Four member and her unique, spirited Pokémon, as he continued his relentless march towards the Hoenn Champion. The next challenge awaited.
/////
A/N: Reach the goal of 200 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!