Two metallic clangs rang out as Haxorus and Gyarados slammed into each other head-on.
Haxorus's body skidded backward, carving a deep gouge into the ground.
Although Haxorus possessed Advanced (Late Stage) strength, Gyarados had already used Dragon Dance at the very start, and with Moxie, it had defeated two Pokémon in succession, raising its Attack by two full stages.
Coupled with Gyarados's massive frame, the sheer force it could unleash was nothing short of terrifying!
In a direct contest of raw power, Haxorus was bound to be at a disadvantage…
"Haxorus… now's the time! Use Dragon Claw!"
Ian swept his arm forward, shouting the command once more.
"Gyarados… Thunder Dragon Claw!"
Aaron's voice followed immediately.
Astonishing energy erupted from both Dragon-type Pokémon at the same time.
White energy condensed around Haxorus's claws, while crackling lightning surged violently around Gyarados's claw. Wild, raging electrical power gathered along the Thunder Dragon Claw.
Dragon Claw and Thunder Dragon Claw collided violently.
"BOOM—"
"Crack—crack—crack—"
A deafening impact echoed as lightning flashed everywhere. A figure was sent flying backward—
It was Ian's Haxorus!
A Thunder Dragon Claw with 150 base power was truly terrifying!
Haxorus's Dragon Claw was overwhelmed under the impact, and its massive body was smashed into the ground. Struggling with all its strength, it forced itself back to its feet.
"Haxorus… hang on!"
"Let's settle this with one final move!"
"Haxorus… use Outrage—"
Ian clenched his fists tightly, determination blazing in his eyes as he shouted at the top of his lungs.
Aaron's eyes gleamed sharply, his battle intent surging as he called out:
"Gyarados… deliver the final blow!"
"Blazing Dragon Rush!"
"ROAR—!"
Haxorus and Gyarados roared at the same time.
A crimson light surged across Haxorus's body. Its eyes turned blood-red as it transformed into a streak of scarlet light, charging forward at full speed.
At the same moment, Gyarados was engulfed in raging flames. Fire wrapped around its entire body as a colossal Flame Dragon rose into the air.
In the blink of an eye, the Flame Dragon and Haxorus collided head-on.
"BOOM—!"
A massive explosion shook the entire Pokémon arena.
The shockwaves from the blast rippled outward, sweeping in all directions. Thick smoke billowed, rubble flew everywhere—it was like a missile strike detonating.
The wind roared, dust filled the air.
Everyone in the arena held their breath, eyes wide, staring unblinking at the battlefield, as if trying to see through the heavy curtain of smoke.
Slowly, the smoke began to disperse.
Two dark silhouettes appeared within it—
Haxorus and Gyarados!
The two Dragons stood facing each other.
A gentle breeze passed through, stirring the dust.
"Thud—"
A heavy sound echoed.
Haxorus's body collapsed onto the cold ground, completely losing the ability to battle.
At last, Haxorus fell beneath Gyarados's overwhelming dominance…
"H-Haxorus has lost the ability to battle!"
"All five Pokémon from Training Camp Six have lost the ability to battle!"
"Therefore, the final victor is—"
"Training Camp One!"
The referee swallowed hard, then shouted excitedly as he announced the final result.
Only then did the spectators and contestants react, erupting into thunderous cheers and applause.
In the stands, Sterling and the school leaders were flushed with excitement, clapping so hard their palms ached.
Meanwhile, Principal Harvey and the Hidden Dragon Academy officials looked as if they'd swallowed something bitter.
They had arrived full of confidence, but now it seemed they would be leaving thoroughly defeated.
Major Grant gazed at the tall figure on the battlefield, his eyes filled with admiration.
Based on the strength and potential Aaron had displayed, he had already met the requirements for special recruitment into Pokémon Elite Defense Academy.
"This boy… a hidden prodigy."
"No—"
"The Hidden Dragon."
...
On the battlefield, Ian recalled Haxorus and walked over to Aaron. Looking him straight in the eyes, he said,
"Aaron… I lost."
"You're strong!"
"But next time, I won't lose."
A tight smile appeared on Ian's face as he extended his right hand.
Aaron smiled faintly, reaching out and gripping Ian's hand firmly.
"You're strong too," he replied.
"But next time, I won't lose either."
The two shook hands, smiling at each other.
This was Pokémon battling.
This was the true charm of Pokémon battles—
passion, friendship, bonds, and unyielding resolve.
And one day, the entire world would witness their brilliance.
...