Chapter 302: Double Battle (2)
~Third POV~
[Hoenn Region, Verdanturf Town]
After Flygon evolved, Azure quickly recalled his Pokémon and hurled two other Poke Balls from his belt next in a serious voice, "Good work, you two! Return! Sceptile! Gardevoir! Standby for battle!"
*Pop*
Both of Azure's Pokémon have been materialized. Sceptile has its sharp leaves and is ready, with its held item [Sceptilite]gleaming on its neck, attached to its scarf. Beside it, his Gardevoir, its psychic energy radiating outward, the [Twisted Spoon] was a familiar addition to its being.
The battle commenced. The air crackled with energy as Sceptile and Gardevoir faced off against Flygon and Milotic.
The initial exchange was swift and calculated. The air vibrated with the clash of attacks as each side began to attack.
*Swooosh*
Flygon's Ground-type assaults were met by Sceptile's swift movements, while Feefee's powerful Water-type attacks were deftly dodged by Gardevoir's evasive maneuvers. Sceptile, with its incredible speed, darted forward, its Dual Chop aimed at Flygon.
Simultaneously, Gardevoir unleashed Psychic, a wave of mental energy directed at Milotic. It was a dance of strategy and instinct, the two young trainers working in tandem, their Pokémon mirroring their evolving teamwork.
Flygon, however, was quick to react, its levitating body allowing it to expertly dodge Sceptile's attack. It retaliated with a Dragon Claw, a powerful swipe that forced Sceptile to hastily retreat with Agility.
Meanwhile, Milotic, its Marvel Scale already slightly activated by the [Flame Orb's] residual heat, met Gardevoir's Psychic with a swift Aqua Tail, the powerful jet of water disrupting the psychic attack.
From the sidelines, a chorus of cheers erupted. Wanda and Riley offered encouraging words to the boys. Pikachu and Eevee, on the sidelines, chattered excitedly, their eyes following every move.
Gabby and Ty, their cameras whirring, provided a running commentary, their enthusiastic voices adding to the charged atmosphere. The pace was relentless, a dazzling display of offensive and defensive maneuvers.
Azure, initially observing, found himself drawn deeper into the fray, a hint of seriousness creeping into his demeanor as he thought, 'The boys' Pokémon fought with surprising synchronicity. Flygon and Milotic seemed to anticipate each other's moves, covering each other's weaknesses with practiced ease. Milotic's graceful movements complemented Flygon's aerial prowess, creating a formidable offensive and defensive unit.'
Azure observed this synergy, a slight frown touching his brow. He knew he needed to break their rhythm, to shift the momentum.
He then saw his opening. Azure commanded, his voice sharp, "Gardevoir! Time to bring them down! Gravity!"
*Shiii*
A shimmering aura emanated from Gardevoir, spreading across the battlefield. Suddenly, a palpable weight descended.
*THUD*
Flygon, its Levitate ability nullified by the unnatural pull of the increased gravity, dropped unceremoniously to the ground. Milotic, too, felt the earth's grip tighten, its graceful levitation replaced by an awkward, grounded stance.
Before they could recover, Azure pressed his advantage, ordering, "Sceptile! Strong Style Solar Beam! Gardevoir! Telekinesis, keep them pinned!"
*Shiii*
Sceptile pulsed with power, its body gathering emerald energy. Gardevoir, its horns glowing, channeled raw, untamed power of Telekinesis, keeping the two Pokémon down. And when Sceptile finally charged used Solar Beam, unleashed with devastating force, striking the grounded Flygon and Milotic.
*PEW*
They were unable to evade, unable to parry. The blast was immense, a searing torrent of light and energy. Wally and Ruby could only watch in horror as the devastating attack slammed into both their Pokémon…
*BOOOM*
… A blinding explosion of light and power engulfed Flygon and Feefee. When the blinding light and dust subsided, both Flygon and Milotic lay defeated on the ground, their trainers looking on with a mix of admiration and dismay.
Riley, after a moment of stunned silence, raised his hand and declared, "Wally's Flygon and Ruby's Feefee are unable to battle!"
A wave of applause and murmurs rippled through the small crowd. Gabby's voice was electric as she commented, "Unbelievable! Azure Sky's Gardevoir and Sceptile displayed a masterful combination, utilizing Gravity and Telekinesis to set up a devastating Solar Beam! A stunning display of strategy!"
Wally and Ruby stood there, momentarily stunned. They had given it their all, yet Azure had turned the tide so decisively.
Taking a deep breath, Wally reached for his next Poké Ball. His young face etched with a newfound understanding as he recalled his Flygon declared fiercely, "Flygon, you did well. Get some rest. Now… Gallade, it's up to you now!"
*Pop*
From the flash of light, Wally's Gallade appeared, striking a ready pose with its held item, the [Expert Belt], around its waist, gleaming. Its sharp blades glinted, its gaze fixed on Azure's Pokémon.
Ruby, regaining his composure, swiftly followed suit. He recalled Feefee and declared boldly, "Nana, let's go!"
*Pop*
His Mightyena, Nana, emerged with a snarl, the [Muscle Band] on its leg accentuating its powerful build. Immediately, a wave of palpable intimidation washed over the field as Nana's Intimidate Ability activated, visibly lowering the physical attack of both Mega Sceptile and Gardevoir.
Ruby barked, a newfound fire in his eyes, "Now, Nana, Taunt Gardevoir!"
Nana howled, a guttural sound that seemed to mock Gardevoir, "Bark! (Hey, sassy bitch! Fuck you!!)"
The psychic Pokémon flinched, her aura flickering. Ruby's strategy was clear: Taunt would force Gardevoir to only use attacking moves, breaking her focus, and more critically, ending the Gravity field she had established.
*Shiii*
The oppressive weight lifted, and the air around them felt lighter. Wally and Ruby sighed in unison, a breath of relief escaping them. They had regained some control, breaking Azure's formidable setup.
Azure merely grinned, a look of genuine admiration on his face. Their comeback was clever, a testament to their quick thinking.
Filled with determination, both Wally and Ruby barked their commands in quick succession, "Alright, time to take control again! Gallade, use Psycho Cut on Sceptile! Nana, Dark Pulse on Gardevoir!"
*Shinng*
*PEW*
Gallade, with incredible speed, zipped towards Mega Sceptile, its arm blades glowing with psychic energy in preparation for battle. Nana, meanwhile, unleashed a potent wave of dark energy towards Gardevoir.
Both boys were launching fierce, strategic attacks, helping each other out, trying to overwhelm Azure's Pokémon and land some damaging hits. They moved with a renewed vigor, determined to push back against the Indigo champion.
Azure's Pokémon, however, moved with an almost prescient synergy, a testament to their history together. Azure's Sceptile and Gardevoir weren't merely powerful; they were a finely tuned instrument, their bond forged from the very beginning of Azure's journey.
From the moment he met Treecko and Ralts, their partnership had blossomed, evolving into the formidable Sceptile and Gardevoir they are today through hard work and training. Their teamwork was impeccable.
Azure's commands were swift, authoritative, "Gardevoir, Future Sight, then Moonblast on Gallade! Sceptile, Energy Ball onto Nana!"
*Shiii*
Gardevoir's eyes glowed, initiating a Future Sight that would strike later, adding a layer of unseen pressure. She then launched a vibrant Moonblast towards Gallade, forcing the Blade Pokémon to dodge.
*Pew*
Simultaneously, Sceptile fired a glowing Energy Ball at Nana, who was forced to respond with a Quick Attack to evade. The battle continued to escalate, a whirlwind of attacks and counter-attacks.
Gallade's Psycho Cut came dangerously close to Sceptile, only for Gardevoir to suddenly use Teleport, blinking herself and Sceptile out of the way, making the attack miss. Ruby's Nana, attempting another Dark Pulse on Gardevoir, found its attack intercepted.
Azure had Gardevoir strategically position herself, allowing the Dark Pulse to harmlessly be deflected by Sceptile's Swords Dance, blocking the attack, showcasing incredible, almost telepathic, coordination.
Azure ordered calmly, "Sceptile, Leaf Blade on Gallade!"
*Zooom*
Sceptile, having blocked the Dark Pulse, moved with blistering speed, its Leaf Blades glowing as it clashed with Gallade's Psycho Cut in a shower of sparks, defending Gardevoir from the opposing attack.
*SHINNG*
Wally and Ruby pressed their assault, their commands overlapping, trying to find a chink in Azure's armor. Gallade moved like a phantom, its Psycho Cut attacks relentless, combined with using Teleport to move.
Nana, despite the type disadvantage, was surprisingly agile, unleashing Snarls and Sucker Punches. But Azure's Pokémon, backed by unwavering trust and shared experiences, were unshakable.
Eventually, the relentless pressure began to tell. Sceptile and Gardevoir coordinated a final, decisive assault.
*Wooosh*
Sceptile created a dense flurry of razor-sharp Leafage, obscuring Nana's vision, preventing it from using Sucker Punch. As Nana was disoriented, Gardevoir unleashed a concentrated Shadow Ball aimed at Gallade, but…
*Wooosh*
*BOOOM*
… Nana, in a valiant display of loyalty, took the full force of the hit, sacrificing itself to shield Gallade from the powerful attack. Riley raised his hand once more, declaring, "Ruby's Nana is unable to battle!!"
Ruby clenched his fist, a mix of frustration and admiration on his face. He quickly recalled Nana, offering words of encouragement, "You did good, Nana, take a good rest."
Now, with only one Pokémon left, a different kind of resolve settled over him. He said fiercely, his voice firm, "Alright, Rara, it's your turn!"
*Pop*
From its Poké Ball, Ruby's Gardevoir, Rara, emerged, its form radiating grace and power. Around its neck, the [Gardevoirite] pulsed with a restrained but immense energy, hinting at the true power Ruby was now willing to unleash. The battle was far from over.
Azure's grin widened, his eyes sparkling with the thrill of the challenge as he thought, 'This was more than a battle; it was a crucible, forging stronger trainers and stronger bonds, one strategic move at a time. Time to go beyond!'
The air crackled. Both Trainers' eyes narrowed with Wally breaking the stalemate as he shouted, "Gallade, use Close Combat on Sceptile!"
Simultaneously, Ruby, adapting quickly despite his aversion to battling, commanded, "Rara, Psychic on Sceptile!"
Their strategy was clear: focus on Azure's heavy hitter. But Azure was the Indigo Champion for a reason as he countered, "Sceptile, Leaf Blade through Gallade's Close Combat! Gardevoir, Moonblast on Rara!"
*Wooosh*
*SHINNG*
*CLANG*
Gallade surged forward, a flurry of precise, powerful strikes. Sceptile met it head-on, its arm-blades glowing emerald, deflecting and parrying the blows, then countering with a brutal swipe that sent Gallade skidding back, but not before the Close Combat landed a respectable hit.
Meanwhile, Ruby's Rara launched a focused Psychic attack. Azure's Gardevoir countered with a dazzling Moonblast, a sphere of pure fairy energy that clashed with Rara's Psychic, creating a vibrant explosion of light and force that momentarily obscured the field.
*BOOM*
The intensity of the exchange stunned the small audience. Wanda gasped, covering her mouth. Riley, the referee, found himself leaning forward, engrossed.
Even Gabby and Ty, accustomed to high-stakes news, struggled to keep up with their commentary. Ty exclaimed into his microphone, "Unbelievable power from Azure's Sceptile! And a spectacular counter from his Gardevoir!"
Pikachu and Eevee chittered excitedly, sensing the high stakes, their tails wagging like excited fans. Gabby added, pointing at Ruby and Wally, "But look at Wally and Ruby! Their coordinated attacks are putting real pressure on the Champion!"
Wanda, however, was struck by a deeper emotion. Seeing Wally, so vibrant, so fiercely determined, brought tears to her eyes.
She remembered the sickly boy, pale and fragile, struggling to breathe, barely able to leave his bed. His parents had often spoken of the young trainer who had inspired him, who had given him the courage to venture into Petalburg Woods and beyond, the one who unwittingly helped him find his strength and health.
She glanced at Azure, a silent, heartfelt thanks welling in her heart. The battle raged on between the two.
*Wooosh*
Gallade became a blur of motion, using Detect to evade Sceptile's Quick Attack, then striking with Drain Punch. Rara, under Ruby's surprisingly keen commands, floated elegantly, weaving in Dazzling Gleam and Psyshock attacks, often aiming for where Sceptile would land after dodging another of Gallade's advances.
*Wooosh*
Azure's Sceptile, though fast, was taking hits from Rara and Wally's Gallade. His Gardevoir, however, was proving a formidable wall, parrying Rara's attacks and landing precise Moonblasts and Psychics of its own.
Azure allowed the rhythm of the battle to flow, observing Wally's growing confidence and Ruby's surprising adaptability between them. They truly were fighting as a team, protecting each other's weaknesses.
Wally covered Ruby's setup time, while Ruby's ranged attacks created openings for Gallade as he couldn't help but murmur, "It's impressive. But…"
Then, Azure's eyes met Ruby's. It was time.
Both trainers, with a silent understanding, reached for their Key Stones, one in a Mega Ring and the other in his glove. Azure called out, his voice cutting through the din, "Now, Ruby! Let them see true power!"
Ruby responded, a thrilling grin spreading across his face, the battle's intensity eclipsing his usual disdain, "Alright, Azure! Rara, let's show them your beauty!"
*Tap*
He touched his keystone. Azure's own hand went to his pendant glove as he declared, "Sceptile, transcend your limits! Mega Evolve!"
*SHIII*
With a powerful flash of light, Sceptile's form began to shift, its leafy tail growing longer, segments splitting to reveal powerful rocket-like thrusters. Its claws sharpened, and its expression became fiercer.
Ruby's Gardevoir was enveloped in a shimmering aura. Its dress-like form grew more voluminous, its arms extending, its headpiece transforming into a magnificent bridal veil, exuding an ethereal grace. The air around them pulsed with raw power.
Gabby shrieked, her voice barely containing her excitement, "Mega Evolution! A Mega Gardevoir and a Mega Sceptile! What an incredible sight!"
Ty added, zooming in with his camera in an excited voice, "Truly awe-inspiring! The sheer power emanating from these Pokémon is breathtaking!"
The crowd, small as it was, burst into exclamations of awe. Wally, though focused on the battle, couldn't help but stare, utterly captivated by the spectacle.
Ruby, gazing at his Mega Gardevoir. 'Rara,' smiled as he said proudly, "See, Azure? Elegance and power! Shame that Sapphire isn't here to witness this, proving myself right!"
Azure, his Mega Sceptile now a vision of verdant ferocity, nodded as he added, "Indeed, Ruby. But don't let Sapphire hear that, or else she will forcibly battle you. Now, let's continue this dance. Sceptile! Agile Style Dragon Pulse!"
*PEW*
Mega Sceptile roared, its new speed evident as it blurred across the field, launching a Dragon Pulse that incinerated a patch of grass aimed at Gallade. However, Ruby countered, "Quick counter it with Hyper Voice Rara!"
*SCREEE*
Mega Gardevoir floated with newfound majesty, unleashing a devastating Hyper Voice that vibrated through the ground, blocking the Dragon Pulse. The battle intensified further.
Wally's Gallade, though not Mega Evolved, fought with renewed vigor, driven by the spectacle, not wanting to be deadweight. It used Sacred Sword, attempting to cut through Mega Sceptile's defenses…
*Zooom*
But Mega Sceptile was too fast, dodging with its powerful tail propulsion. Then Azure ordered swiftly, "Now end it, Sceptile! Strong Style! FRENZY PLANT!! Gardevoir Agile Style Psychic on Gallade!"
Hearing his words, Secptile retaliated with an unyielding Frenzy Plant. The roots erupted from the ground, binding Gallade, leaving it vulnerable.
*RMBL*
Wally cried, but it was too late, "Gallade, no!"
*BAM*
*SHIII*
Azure's Gardevoir, with a mental command, followed up with a powerful Psychic, slamming Gallade hard against the ground. The [Expert Belt] glowed one last time, but Gallade couldn't stand.
Riley declared, his voice filled with a professional grimness despite his awe, "Gallade is unable to battle!"
It was now Mega Sceptile and Gardevoir against Ruby's lone Mega Gardevoir. Ruby, though visibly disappointed, steeled his resolve as he fought on, declaring, "Rara, guard yourself! Use Shadow Ball!"
*PEW*
His Mega Gardevoir launched shadowy orbs, but Azure's team moved with seamless coordination. Gardevoir created a Reflect to block incoming attacks, while Mega Sceptile charged with a STAB Leaf Blade.
Ruby's Rara put up a valiant fight, unleashing Dazzling Gleam and Psychic, but the two-on-one assault was overwhelming. Mega Sceptile's speed, combined with Gardevoir's raw special attack support, created an unstoppable tandem.
Finally, after a prolonged struggle, a combined Energy Ball from Mega Sceptile and a focused Psychic from Azure's Gardevoir struck Ruby's Rara. The elegant Pokémon cried out, faltered, and then collapsed gently to the ground, its Mega Evolution receding in a shimmer of light.
Riley announced, a genuine smile on his face, "Ruby's Gardevoir is unable to battle! Azure Sky is the winner!"
Azure retrieved his Pokémon, Sceptile's Mega Evolutions fading as they returned to their Poké Balls. He approached Wally and Ruby, who were tending to their partners.
He praised them both, his voice carrying genuine warmth, "A magnificent battle, both of you. Wally, your Gallade has grown immensely. Your determination is a formidable weapon. Ruby, your adaptability in battle, despite your preferences, was truly impressive. Your Rara has grown powerful."
He then offered constructive criticism, speaking not as a victor but as a mentor, as he said sternly, "Wally, you relied a bit too much on brute force. Sometimes, a strategic retreat or a defensive move can buy you time. Ruby, your offense was strong, but your defense could be shored up. Next time, try to anticipate where I'll strike after you've landed a big hit. In a double battle, communication is key, and you two showed great promise."
Azure then spoke of preparing for encounters with darker forces, emphasizing the need for versatility and quick thinking as he said sternly, "Team Magma and Aqua won't fight fair. You must be prepared for anything."
Both Wally and Ruby absorbed every word, their expressions earnest. Wally, however, was particularly fixated on one aspect. He breathed, "Azure… Mega Evolution was incredible! How does it work?"
Ruby, now recovering his own Gardevoir, chuckled. He explained, giving a quick rundown of Mega Stones, Keystone, and the temporary power boost, "It's all about the bond between trainer and Pokémon, Wally. It's a marvel of science and spirit."
As their Pokémon recovered and the excitement of the battle began to subside, Wanda approached Azure, her eyes still glistening. She began, her voice thick with emotion as she thanked him, "Azure, I... I never got to properly thank you. Wally was so sick for so long. His parents told me that you were… You were the one who inspired him to get better, to face his fears. You gave him his health back."
Azure's usual stoicism softened. He offered her a subtle, gentle smile, a rare glimpse of the profound impact he had on those around him as he said quietly, "Wally found the strength himself. I merely pointed him towards his path."
Gabby and Ty, seeing their chance, moved in, microphones extended. Gabby began to interview him, "Champio—"
But Azure was already a step ahead. Azure said rudely, his voice crisp, "Ruby! My Gardevoir is ready. Lavaridge Town awaits."
Ruby, understanding, nodded, gathered his things, and prepared himself. With a flash of azure light, Azure's Gardevoir appeared.
*Shiii*
A moment later, Azure and Ruby, along with their Pokémon, vanished, leaving behind nothing but the lingering scent of ozone. Gabby and Ty stared at the space, utterly dumbfounded.
Gabby shrieked, her voice echoing across the field, "He's gone?! Just like that! No interview? No exclusive?!"
*BAM*
Ty slammed his fist onto his camera as he argued with Gabby, "He hates reporters, Gabby! I told you! The Indigo Champion is a ghost when it comes to the press!"
Left in their wake, the frustrated news duo could only lament their missed opportunity, while Azure, true to his word, had whisked Ruby away, already looking towards the next challenge of the Super Pokémon Contest. And as for Azure… the reporter's words were accurate enough.
/////
A/N: Hope you guys liked the Double Chapter Release! And thanks for supporting me in writing this much before in a story. I'll try to give my best also... Reach the goal of 200 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!