Chapter 568: Platinum's Electric Gym Battle
~Third POV~
[Sinnoh Region, Meanwhile, Sunyshore – Gym]
Meanwhile, those very weeks Azure spent in the isolated training had seen his traveling companions, the Sinnoh Dex Holders, on their own crucial journeys. Diamond, Pearl, and Platinum had retraced their steps across Sinnoh, with Diamond and Pearl diligently collecting the remaining Gym Badges needed for the annual Sinnoh Pokémon League Tournament.
Platinum, who had originally collected seven badges while journeying with Azure and the boys, found her quest for the eighth interrupted by the tumultuous events surrounding Team Galactic. Now, with the galactic threat neutralized, she stood on the precipice of her final challenge.
The vibrant, futuristic Sunyshore City Gym pulsed with an electric hum, literally and figuratively. Diamond and Pearl sat in the spectator stands, their eyes fixed on the battle unfolding below.
The air crackled with palpable tension.
Pearl whispered, leaning forward, his voice a mix of awe and anxiety, "Can you believe it, Dia? Platinum's about to get her eighth badge!"
Diamond, ever the calm observer, nodded, munching on a Poffin, and answered, "She's come a long way. This Volkner guy... he's strong."
On the battlefield, Platinum stood poised, her gaze unwavering. Across from her, Volkner, the Sunyshore Gym Leader, a man whose presence crackled with the same energy as his Pokémon, smirked confidently and declared, "Let's see if you can truly electrify this audience, young lady! Elekid, let's go!"
*SNAP*
A small Poké Ball arced through the air, opening to reveal a diminutive Elekid, barely a foot tall, but radiating a surprising aura of power. Its small head bobbed, and its single-pronged tail twitched with contained electricity.
Pearl exclaimed, wide-eyed, "Elekid?! Is he sending out a baby Pokémon first? Is he underestimating her?"
Diamond, however, recalled a similar encounter and answered, "Azure had an Elekid too, remember? And it packed a serious punch for its size. Volkner probably knows what he's doing."
He paused, a flicker of memory in his eyes as he added, "Azure always said not to underestimate any Pokémon, no matter its size."
Platinum, taking a deep breath, knew better than to dismiss any of Volkner's choices. She declared, "Lopunny, you're up!"
*WHOOOSH*
A flash of light; Platinum's elegant Lopunny materialized, ears twitching, eyes sharply focused. Its lithe form exuded grace and strength. Platinum commanded, "Lopunny, Focus Blast!"
*FWOOOSH*
With a graceful leap, Lopunny channeled energy, a shimmering blue orb forming between its paws. It launched the sphere with incredible speed!
*ZAP-ZAP*
Elekid, surprisingly agile, darted and weaved, a blur of yellow, evading the incoming attack with ease. Its small size became an advantage, making it a difficult target. Platinum murmured, a hint of respect in her voice, "Impressive evasion. But let's see you dodge this! Lopunny, now! Focus Punch!"
Elekid, seizing an opening, retaliated with a lightning-fast counter. Volkner smirked and barked, "Elekid, Focus Punch!"
*THWACK*
Its small fist glowed white as it slammed into Lopunny's midsection with a surprising force for Elekid's stature. Lopunny staggered back, a grunt escaping its lips, but quickly recovered its balance.
Elekid, emboldened, began to jump and spin around Lopunny, a whirlwind of motion, trying to disorient its larger opponent. But Platinum was quick to adapt and countered, "Lopunny, get behind it! Dizzy Punch!"
*THWACK*
With a burst of speed, Lopunny anticipated Elekid's next move, ducking under its guard and swiftly maneuvering behind the Electric-type. Its gloved fist spun, connecting with Elekid's back with a solid THWACK!
Elekid cried out, "E-le!"
*THUD*
Its movements became erratic, its eyes glazing over for a moment before it stumbled and fell, a faint spiral appearing in them. It was out.
The referee declared, "Elekid is unable to battle! Lopunny wins!"
A ripple of cheers erupted from the stands. Pearl pumped his fist and exclaimed, "Alright, Platinum! First one down!"
Volkner, however, merely smiled, a glint in his eye. He recalled Elekid as he stated calmly, "A good start, young lady. But that was just a warm-up. Now, let's see how you handle real power. Raichu, go!"
*WHOOSH*
A swift, orange Raichu, larger and more imposing than its pre-evolution, appeared on the field, its long, jagged tail sparking with raw electricity.
Platinum's eyes narrowed. She exclaimed, swapping her Pokémon, "Raichu! Lopunny, return! Empoleon, it's your turn!"
*WHOOSH*
The majestic Empoleon, its steel trident crest glimmering, materialized on the field, letting out a proud cry, "Empoleon!"
Volkner commanded, his voice echoing with authority, "Raichu, Light Screen!"
*SHIII-ZAP*
Raichu's cheeks sparked, and a shimmering, translucent wall of light energy erupted, enveloping Raichu and significantly reducing the damage from special attacks. Platinum countered, opting for a powerful special move despite the Light Screen, "Empoleon, Blizzard!"
*FOOOOOSH*
Empoleon roared, wind currents swirling around it as a torrent of icy winds and razor-sharp hailstones erupted from its maw, hurtling towards Raichu!
*BAM*
The Light Screen absorbed much of the impact, but the sheer force of the Blizzard still sent shivers through the air. Ice began to coat the field, trapping Raichu momentarily. Despite its Electric typing, the sheer power of the move was undeniable. Raichu resisted, but struggled.
Volkner urged, "Don't give up, Raichu! Break through it!"
*CRACKLE*
With a determined surge, Raichu broke through the accumulating ice, its body glowing with renewed energy. It leaped high into the air, a living lightning bolt.
Volkner smirked, ordering, "Raichu, Thunderbolt!"
*ZZZZZAAAPPP*
A massive bolt of electricity arced from Raichu's body, slamming directly into Empoleon. The water-and-steel type cried out in pain, its body convulsing as the intense electrical current coursed through it.
*THUD*
The ground around Empoleon cracked and sizzled.
Platinum cried, her voice filled with alarm, "Empoleon!"
The attack was too strong, too direct. Empoleon's eyes glazed over, and it slumped to the ground, unconscious. The referee declared loudly, "Empoleon is unable to battle! Raichu wins!"
Pearl gasped, exclaiming, "In one hit?! That Raichu is insane!"
Diamond frowned with his arms crossed, adding, "Volkner's really showing his strength. That was a critical hit, straight through the resistance."
Volkner chuckled, a satisfied glint in his eye. He then swapped Raichu as he said calmly, "An unfortunate type disadvantage, young lady. But fear not, the battle is far from over. Raichu, return. Now, for my final Pokémon. Prepare yourself, Platinum. Electivire, let's show them real power!"
*WHOOOSH*
The final Poké Ball opened, and with a resounding bang, a towering Electivire materialized. Its two tails sparked dangerously, and its powerful limbs tensed, radiating an aura of raw, untamed electrical might.
Platinum felt a surge of respect, but also a renewed determination. Recalling her Empoleon, she declared, hurling her next choice, "Then let's meet power with power! Hisuian Arcanine, come on out!"
*WHOOSH*
A majestic Hisuian Arcanine, its fiery mane blazing, paws kicking up dust, burst onto the field. Its body radiated heat, its eyes burning with fierce loyalty. The crowd murmured in appreciation for the rare sight.
Volkner's eyes lit up, a genuine smile spreading across his face muttered, "A Hisuian Arcanine? Fascinating! Tell me, Platinum, is its power as explosive as your friend Azure's? Electivire, Thunder Punch!"
*CRACK*
Electivire roared, its fist crackling with intense electrical energy. It charged forward, a blur of yellow and black, and slammed its glowing fist into H-Arcanine's side with a deafening CRACK!
The impact was immense, shattering the very ground beneath them, sending fissures spiderwebbing across the arena floor. Dust and debris exploded outwards.
Volkner closed his eyes for a moment, anticipating the swift defeat. But when he opened them, his smile faltered, replaced by a flicker of annoyance and then intrigue.
Platinum, despite the sheer force of the attack, stood firm, her expression resolute. She declared, her voice ringing clear amidst the settling dust, "That... wasn't even enough power, Volkner! Azure's power... the force behind his Pokémon's attacks... it would have destroyed her in one move. Left nothing but a crater."
A collective gasp swept through the stands. Diamond and Pearl exchanged glances, remembering some of Azure's more 'enthusiastic' battles.
Volkner's eyes widened slightly. He had heard of his tales. But to hear such a stark comparison from someone like Platinum, a trainer of considerable skill herself, was truly intriguing.
Volkner mused aloud, a thoughtful hum escaping him, "Azure, huh?"
He looked at Platinum, a new respect dawning in his eyes as he said confidently with an eager grin, "You know, young lady, despite losing this particular exchange, I find myself deeply fascinated by you. You've managed to learn a great deal about your mentor's characteristics, his moves, even his very words. You've taken more than just damage from this battle, haven't you?"
Platinum nodded, her gaze firm. She grinned, stating, "I've gained knowledge, Volkner. That, to me, is never a loss."
Volkner grinned, a genuine, appreciative smile. He gestured decisively, commanding with a grin, "Indeed. A true trainer's mindset. But now... let's finish what we started! Electivire, charge!"
H-Arcanine, though battered, let out a defiant bark. Platinum saw the fire in its eyes. She commanded, "H-Arcanine, Extreme Speed into Flare Blitz! Full power!"
*WHOOOSH*
With a mighty roar, H-Arcanine became a streak of living flame, an orange and red comet streaking across the field. It slammed into Electivire with the combined force of its incredible speed and infernal heat, resulting in an explosion.
*KABOOOM*
The explosion caused the entire stadium to shake. Electivire screeched in pain, pushed back by the relentless assault, dealing massive damage.
But Electivire was a formidable opponent. Even as it reeled, it managed to retaliate, its second tail sparking, its fist glowing.
*CRACKLE*
Volkner commanded, "Thunder Punch!"
*BASH*
The electrified fist connected with H-Arcanine's side as the fiery dog was still recovering from its own powerful attack. The force was immense, sending H-Arcanine tumbling, finally falling limp.
*THUD*
The referee quickly announced the results, "Hisuian Arcanine is unable to battle! Electivire wins!"
A sigh escaped Platinum's lips, but her resolve remained unbroken. She only had one Pokémon left as she whispered, "You fought incredibly well, H-Arcanine. Rest now. Lopunny, it's all up to you!"
*POP*
Lopunny, re-entering the battle, seemed to sense the gravity of the situation. Its ears perked, its stance became sharper.
Platinum declared, her voice ringing with newfound confidence, "I'll be turning this battle around, Volkner!"
Then, with a flourish, she raised her left wrist, revealing a shimmering Mega Ring. Lopunny, catching her gaze, gave a determined nod. Platinum grinned as she screamed, "Lopunny, beyond evolution! Mega Evolve!"
*WOOSH-SHHHH*
Platinum touched the Mega Stone, Lopunnite, embedded in her Mega Ring. A brilliant stream of light erupted, engulfing Lopunny. The light pulsed, changing, reforming. When it receded, a transformed Mega Lopunny stood in its place.
Its fur was even sleeker, its ribbon-like ears longer, its fighting spirit radiating powerfully. Its stance was more aggressive, its eyes burning with intense energy.
Volkner's eyes widened, then a wide grin stretched across his face, stating, "Mega Evolution! Impressive! Not many trainers in Sinnoh have mastered such a feat. You truly are full of surprises, Platinum!"
Platinum grinned back, a genuine, joyful expression answered, "I've had the best mentor in Azure, and the best sparring partners in Diamond and Pearl! They taught me to never give up, and to always reach for more!"
Volkner challenged, his excitement palpable, "Let's see what that Mega Evolution can do, then!"
Platinum commanded, her voice sharp and clear, "Mega Lopunny, Agility into Mach Punch and Drain Punch! A rapid flurry!"
Mega Lopunny sprang into action, a blur of motion!
*SWISH*
Its speed was phenomenal, outpacing even Electivire's reactions. It weaved in, unleashing a barrage of lightning-fast Mach Punches…
*THWACK-THWACK-THWACK*
… each hit landing with incredible force. Before Electivire could even fully register the attacks, Lopunny transitioned seamlessly into a series of energy-draining Drain Punches in the process…
*WHUMP-WHUMP*
… sapping Electivire's vitality with each blow. The Electabuzz Pokémon stumbled, trying to retaliate, but Lopunny was too fast, too relentless.
*BZZZZZT-CRASH*
With a final, powerful Drain Punch, Mega Lopunny sent Electivire reeling into the wall, where it slumped, sparks fading from its tails. It was down.
The referee called, "Electivire is unable to battle! Mega Lopunny wins!"
The crowd erupted in a thunderous roar, a standing ovation for the incredible display of skill and power. Pearl was practically jumping out of his seat, exclaiming, "SHE DID IT! SHE ACTUALLY DID IT!"
Diamond clapped enthusiastically, a wide grin breaking his usual stoicism, and added, "Yeah, she did. We helped her, duh."
Volkner, though defeated, clapped with equal fervor, his grin wider than ever, and stated happily, "Truly magnificent! I haven't had a battle that exhilarating in ages! Raichu, it's just you and me now!"
*POP*
Raichu, despite the odds, still stood ready, its eyes burning with determination. Volkner ordered, aiming for a swift, decisive blow, "Raichu! Extreme Speed!"
*ZOOOOM*
Raichu zipped forward, a golden streak of pure velocity, aiming to strike Mega Lopunny before it could react.
But Platinum was ready. She countered, "Mega Lopunny, Mimic!"
Mega Lopunny's eyes glowed, and with incredible precision, it copied Raichu's signature move!
*ZOOOOOM*
Now two streaks of pure speed collided in the center of the arena, creating a shockwave that rippled through the air…
*CRASH*
The two Pokémon reeled back, momentarily stunned.
Platinum roared, "Now, Lopunny, Mega Punch!"
Volkner countered, "Raichu, Thunder Punch!"
Both Pokémon lunged forward, their powerful fists glowing, one with raw fighting energy, the other with crackling electricity!
*BAM—THWACK*
They landed their hits simultaneously, a powerful exchange that sent both Pokémon flying backward!
*THUD*
Mega Lopunny skidded across the ground, kicking up dust, but managed to dig its heels in and stand firm, though visibly winded. Raichu, however, landed with a thud, its eyes spiraling. It was out cold.
The referee soon declared, "Raichu is unable to battle! Mega Lopunny wins! The victor is Platinum!"
Platinum let out a long, shaky breath, relief washing over her. She rushed forward to embrace her partner, who reverted to its original form, nuzzling against her affectionately, praising her, "You were incredible, Mega Lopunny! Thank you!"
Volkner walked over, a proud smile on his face as he said proudly, "What a battle, Platinum. Truly, a trainer worthy of the Sinnoh League Tournament. You pressed me harder than anyone in a long time."
He reached into his pocket and presented a shining, cog-shaped badge and TM Disk. He handed them over, saying, "The Beacon Badge is yours. And for your efforts, take this, a gift from Sunyshore City Gym: TM Charge Beam."
Platinum beamed, taking the badge and carefully pinning it to her muffler, right alongside her other seven. The eight badges gleamed proudly against the fabric. She said thankfully, "Thank you, Volkner!"
Volkner pointed to the collection, explaining, "8 badges. That means you've earned the right to participate in the Pokémon League Sinnoh Tournament. The winner gets the right to challenge them in the Pokémon League. The Elite Four, the Champion... they await. You've certainly earned your chance."
Platinum nodded, her heart swelling with pride and anticipation. She confessed, "I know. But... I also wish Azure were here. He got a special Battle Pass, didn't he? A direct challenge to the Elite Four and Cynthia, as a reward for halting Team Galactic with her."
Volkner chuckled, running a hand through his spiky hair with a knowing grin, and stated, "Indeed, he did. I wish he were here too, to challenge me again. But I can tell you this much: I've spent the last few weeks training just as intensely, preparing for the day he or any other formidable trainer comes knocking."
His gaze turned towards the horizon, where the distant peaks of Mount Coronet hinted at the League as he added, "He won't be an easy opponent, even for the Champion. But he'll have to fight a lot to reach them."
/////
[Sinnoh Region, Sunset, Pokémon League]
The Sinnoh Pokémon League stood before Azure, its gates an imposing yet inviting threshold. The sunset had faded to a deep twilight, and the structures were now bathed in the gentle glow of artificial light. Tall, imposing, and humming with an unspoken challenge, it was the culmination of everything he had worked for in Sinnoh.
He approached the formidable gates, Pikachu still on his shoulder, Eevee on his head, and Pichu (Mew) tucked securely in his jacket. Gengar remained a mischievous shadow, occasionally peeking out with a soft "Boo!" while the Arc Phone pulsed steadily beside him.
Two Ace Trainers, clad in official League uniforms, stood guard. One requested, their voice firm but respectful, "Identification, please."
Azure presented the special Battle Pass Cynthia had personally given him. It wasn't merely a document; it was a testament to his extraordinary efforts against Team Galactic. The Ace Trainers examined it, their eyes widening slightly as they recognized the official seal and Cynthia's signature.
The first trainer read, then looked up at him with newfound awe, "Azure Sky… The one who assisted Champion Cynthia against Team Galactic... And conquered the Battle Frontier? Incredible."
The second trainer confirmed, handing back the pass, explaining, "You are authorized for direct challenge, Mr. Sky. However, per League regulations for the Elite Four and Champion challenges, you may only bring six Pokémon into the facility."
Azure nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. He replied politely, "Understood clearly. Thank you."
Stepping inside, the atmosphere immediately shifted. The air was thick with the scent of ozone and the quiet hum of advanced technology. The League's Pokémon Center, a sleek, state-of-the-art facility, was his first stop.
He had his entire team checked and healed, ensuring they were in peak condition. The familiar chime of the healing machine was a comforting sound. After his Pokémon were fully restored, Azure gathered them around him in a quiet corner of the Center.
Pikachu, Eevee, Pichu (Mew), Gengar, Marshadow, and Darkrai formed a tight circle, their eyes attentive. Rotom, still within the Arc Phone, floated closer. Azure began, his voice soft but firm, "Alright, everyone. From this point onward, I must fight with my main six. You all know the rules of the League challenge."
Pikachu, Eevee, Marshadow, and Pichu (Mew) bobbed their heads in understanding. They had been through this before, back when Azure challenged the Hoenn Pokémon League's Elite Four and Champion. It was always a bittersweet moment, for they were his constant companions, yet the rules dictated they couldn't always be on the battlefield.
Gengar floated forward, a slight look of dejection on her spectral face, and argued, "Aw, man! I wanted to see you stomp those Elite Four guys! Shame I can't be there. Tch! Stupid rules! Screw the rules!!"
Darkrai, an imposing figure despite its quiet demeanor, merely nodded, its eyes conveying a similar sentiment. It too had longed to witness the unfolding grandeur of the League challenge.
But Rotom, ever the resourceful one, zipped the Arc Phone closer to Azure's face, its screen lighting up with a cheerful, buzzing icon, said happily with an eager grin, "Bzzzt! Don't worry, everyone! I'll video record the whole battle for you to watch! Bzzzt! You'll have the best seats in the house!"
Gengar's eyes widened, replying, "Ooh! Really, Rotom? You're the best!"
Azure smiled, gently stroking Pikachu's head as he said thankfully, "That's a great idea, Rotom. Thank you."
He looked at his entire gathered family. He said in a confident tone with a cocky grin on his face, "It won't be long, I promise. You'll be back at the Airship in Pallet Town, safe and sound, cheering us on."
One by one, he returned Pikachu, Eevee, Pichu (Mew), Gengar, Marshadow, and Darkrai to their respective Poké Balls…
*CLICK-CLICK-CLICK*
With a touch to his Arc Phone, they were sent through the PC system, back home to his Airship, awaiting his return. He felt a pang of longing, but knew this was a necessary step forward.
Now, only his main six remained: Infernape, Lucario, Gallade, Togekiss, Kleavor, and Rotom, whose consciousness still resided within the Arc Phone, now clipped to Azure's belt. He looked at them, recalling them from their Poké Balls for a moment, letting them feel the weight of the moment.
*POP*
Infernape pounded its chest, Lucario clenched its paws, Gallade drew its arm blades, Togekiss fluttered its wings, Kleavor scraped his axe-like arms together. Each Pokémon radiated fierce determination.
Azure said seriously, his voice firm, resonating with conviction, "This is it, team. Everything we've worked for, every challenge we've overcome, every lesson we've learned... it all comes down to this. We're going to win this, for ourselves, for everyone back home who believes in us, and for all our friends who can't be here to fight beside us."
A chorus of determined cries erupted from his Pokémon:
"Infernape! (Let me at them!)"
"Lucario! (Heh! Let them come!)"
"Gallade! (They shall fall to my blade!)"
"Togekiss! (I'll take them down, daddy!)"
"Kleavor! (Hmph! I'll show my rival I'm superior!)"
Rotom, buzzing from the Arc Phone, emitted a triumphant battle cry in a dramatic voice, "Bzzzt! Let's do this!"
Azure nodded, a fire burning in his own eyes. He recalled Infernape, Lucario, Gallade, Togekiss, and Kleavor, their Poké Balls held firmly in his hand. Rotom zipped from the Arc Phone, hovering by his side, its blue electric aura pulsing.
Together, the two stepped forward, walking towards the illuminated gates of the Sinnoh Pokémon League challenge chamber. The air vibrated with anticipation, with the promise of battles that would test their limits and forge their legend. The strongest trainers Sinnoh had to offer awaited.
/////
A/N: Hope you like the chapter!