Chapter 279: Normal Gym Battle (4) [Bonus]
~Third POV~
[Hoenn Region, Petalburg City – Gym]
Norman reached for a Poké Ball at his waist, a larger and more imposing one than the standard issue. He declared, and with a flash of red light, a truly enormous Pokémon materialized on the arena floor, "This is my final Pokémon, Indigo Champion. Let's see how you match up… I choose you, Slaking!"
*Pop*
It was a Slaking, but unlike any Azure had ever seen. Its fur was deeper, its muscles more defined, its sheer bulk radiating an oppressive power. This was clearly an Alpha Pokémon, a testament to raw, untamed strength.
It held a [Leftover] in its massive hand, slowly munching on it with a lazy, satisfied groan, its eyes half-closed. Even in its indolence, its presence was undeniable, a sleeping giant capable of immense destruction.
Azure's grin widened, a thrill of anticipation coursing through him as he thought, 'An Alpha Pokémon. And a Slaking no less… I didn't think Norman had one, but this is going to be an incredible test.'
Azure called out, drawing his own chosen Poké Ball, a faint metallic sheen reflecting from its surface, "Alright then, Norman, I didn't expect you to have an Alpha Slaking. But I've been saying the right moment to bring this one… I choose you, Metagross!"
*Pop*
Another flash, and Azure's Metagross, a magnificent metallic blue behemoth, floated onto the field. Its four legs clicked rhythmically against the polished floor, its single red eye fixed on the opposing Slaking with an unblinking intensity. On one of its leg-like arms, nestled securely, was its [Metagrossite], glinting subtly.
Norman, seeing the Metagrossite, gave a small nod, acknowledging Azure's readiness for powerful tactics as he said knowingly, "So, a Mega Evolution, perhaps? Very well. Let the battle begin!"
The air in the arena crackled with anticipation. Slaking, despite its apparent laziness, shifted its weight, its gaze now slightly more focused on the hovering steel-psychic type in front of it. Azure commanded, opting for an immediate, powerful psychic strike, "Metagross, start with a Zen Headbutt!"
*Shiii*
Metagross launched itself forward, a blur of metallic blue, its psychic energy coalescing around its head, forming an ethereal ram. It aimed directly for Slaking's chest.
Norman was prepared as he ordered, "Slaking, counter with Hammer Arm!"
*Woooosh*
With surprising speed for its size, Slaking roared, bringing its colossal, clawed hand down in a crushing arc. The [Leftovers] were momentarily set aside, forgotten in the heat of battle as the attacks collided…
*CLANG*
The impact of Hammer Arm against Zen Headbutt was deafening, a clang of steel against flesh and bone, amplified by psychic force. Metagross was sent skidding back, its momentum broken, but Slaking also staggered slightly, the powerful psychic blow having landed.
Azure praised, his mind already calculating, "Excellent start, Metagross!"
He knew Slaking's ability, Truant, would make it impossible for it to move on its next turn. This was his window as he ordered, "Now, use Strong Style Meteor Mash!"
*Shiii*
Metagross's four arms glowed white, then converged, forming a single, devastating metallic fist. It rocketed towards Slaking, aiming for another direct hit. This was the moment.
Slaking, however, simply stared, a faint, almost bored expression on its face as Metagross hurtled towards it. Its body, massive as it was, remained rooted to the spot. Truant. The ability was absolute.
*CRACK*
A CRACK sound was heard as the Meteor Mash connected with a resounding impact, striking Slaking square in the torso. A faint groan escaped the Alpha Pokémon, and it slid back a few feet, kicking up dust.
The hit was powerful, and Metagross's power was evident in the sheer force of the blow. Azure felt a surge of triumph, but it was quickly tempered.
Slaking, despite the direct hit, barely flinched. The [Leftovers] in its hand subtly glowed, restoring a small portion of its health.
Alpha Pokémon weren't just powerful; they were incredibly resilient. He couldn't afford to be passive.
Azure ordered, though he knew Slaking would be active this turn, "Alright, Metagross, keep the pressure on. Use Bullet Punch!"
*Wooosh*
Metagross lunged, its metallic fist glowing, moving with incredible speed. But Slaking, now fully recovered from its lazy turn, was ready.
This was its turn to unleash its true power. Norman commanded, his voice booming, "Slaking, Giga Impact!"
*WOOOSH*
Slaking roared, a guttural sound that vibrated through the arena. Its entire body glowed with an iridescent purple energy, and it charged.
This wasn't just a physical attack; it was a devastating full-body tackle, infused with immense power. Metagross's Bullet Punch, swift as it was, was swallowed whole by the overwhelming force of Slaking's Giga Impact.
*BOOOOM*
The collision was catastrophic. Metagross was flung across the arena like a discarded toy, slamming into the perimeter wall with a sickening thud.
*THUD*
Dust erupted, obscuring the steel Pokémon for a moment. When it cleared, Metagross was on one knee, its metallic armor visibly dented, its red eye flickering. That single hit had taken a colossal toll.
Azure's heart pounded. Slaking's power was indeed terrifying.
It wasn't just its base stats; its Alpha status elevated it to a different league. Slaking, meanwhile, was momentarily paralyzed by the recoil of Giga Impact, its Truant manifesting as a full turn of recovery.
Another window. Azure called out, his voice laced with concern, "Metagross! Are you alright?! Can you still fight?"
Metagross, with a visible effort, pushed itself off the wall, its four arms trembling slightly. Its eye fixed on Azure, conveying a clear message, 'I can still fight.'
He sighed in relief. Azure declared resolutely, his hand rising to touch the Key Stone embedded in his glove, "Good! Then it's time to unleash our full power! Metagross, beyond evolution! Mega Evolve!"
*SHIII*
A brilliant flash of light erupted from Azure's Key Stone, connecting with the Metagrossite on Metagross's arm. The steel Pokémon roared, a chorus of metallic clangs as its form began to distort and grow.
It's four independent brains merged into one, its body streamlined, more aerodynamic. Its legs fused into a single, powerful base, and its four arms became eight, symmetrically arranged, each tipped with a sharp, lethal claw. The red eye narrowed, burning with renewed intensity.
*POOF*
Mega Metagross emerged. Faster, stronger, and with the Tough Claws ability, which would further amplify the power of its physical attacks. Its presence radiated an aura of overwhelming power, shaking the very foundations of the arena.
Norman watched, a flicker of admiration in his own stern gaze. Norman conceded as he said sternly with a sly grin, "Impressive! But my Slaking is not easily swayed, even by a Mega Evolution!"
Azure retorted, his focus absolute as he commanded, "We'll see about that! Mega Metagross, use Strong Style Iron Head!"
*WOOOSH*
No longer content with mere punches, Mega Metagross became a living projectile. It launched itself forward with impossible speed, its entire body encased in metallic energy, a gleaming, unstoppable force.
*BANG*
It struck the recovering Slaking with the force of a train, aiming for its head. Slaking, still recovering from Giga Impact, took the full force of the blow...
*CRUNCH*
The sound of steel on bone was sickening. Slaking cried out in pain, a sound that was less a lazy groan and more a genuine roar of agony.
It stumbled backward, shaking its massive head. The [Leftovers] fell from its grasp, clattering to the floor, forgotten.
Azure commanded fiercely, pressing his advantage, "Now, Metagross, don't let up! Meteor Mash again!"
*BAM*
*BAM*
*BAM*
Mega Metagross, with its Tough Claws ability making its attack even more devastating, spun and delivered a rapid-fire Meteor Mash against Slaking's chest. Another effective strike, another colossal impact.
Slaking reeled, its breathing heavy, its usual indolence replaced by strained effort. Its health was clearly dwindling, but it remained standing, a testament to its resilience.
Norman urged, hoping to turn Metagross's power against itself, "Slaking, Endure! Then use Counter!"
The Alpha Slaking, now visibly enraged, roared, its eyes fully open, a dangerous glint within them. It took a defensive stance, waiting. This was its active turn.
Azure knew this was a critical moment. If Metagross attacked physically, Slaking would return double the damage.
Azure's eyes hardened as he commanded, swiftly changing tactics, "Metagross, Psychic! Attack from a distance!"
Mega Metagross's single eye glowed a brilliant blue, projecting a colossal psychic wave directly at Slaking. The attack, powerful and non-physical, struck Slaking head-on, bypassing its prepared Counter.
*BOOOM*
Slaking cried out again, clutching its head. The psychic energy ripped through its defenses, causing internal tremors. Yet, despite the immense damage, Slaking refused to fall. Its sheer will, combined with its vitality, kept it on its feet, swaying precariously.
Its Truant kicked in again, forcing it into another inactive turn. Norman grimaced. He knew this was likely the end.
Azure declared, his voice ringing with absolute certainty, "One more time, Metagross! Finish it with Strong Style Zen Headbutt!"
*WOOOSH*
With a final, explosive burst of speed, Mega Metagross launched itself forward, a living, breathing, metallic projectile. Its psychic power surged, forming a dazzling aura around its head...
*BOOOOM*
… It struck the unmoving Alpha Slaking with the full, unparalleled force of its Mega Evolved form, a direct, super-effective hit to the head that reverberated through the entire arena. The sound was less of an impact and more of an explosion.
Slaking, the colossal Alpha Pokémon, let out a final, pained roar that quickly faded into a hoarse gurgle. Its eyes rolled back, and its massive body slowly, majestically, toppled backward, hitting the floor with a seismic thud that shook the entire Gym. Dust billowed up, and for a moment, silence reigned.
Then, the referee's arm shot up as he declared loudly, "Slaking is unable to battle! The winner is Azure Sky!"
Azure let out a relieved breath, a wide, triumphant grin spreading across his face. He praised, rushing to his partner's side, "You were incredible, Metagross!"
Mega Metagross, still pulsing with residual energy, let out a satisfied whirring sound, its internal computers undoubtedly processing the victory. Its form then reverted to its standard state, the Metagrossite dimming, but the pride in its single eyes remained.
Norman walked over to his fallen Slaking, gently patting its head as he said proudly, "You fought well, my old friend. Return."
He recalled the massive Pokémon, a look of respect now etched onto his face as he turned to Azure. Norman began, his voice firm but now filled with genuine admiration, " That was an exceptional battle. Your Pokémon were magnificent, and your strategy, especially your handling of Slaking's ability, was masterful. You have earned this badge."
He presented Azure with a gleaming, hexagon-shaped badge as he declared, "The Balance Badge is yours."
Azure took the badge, his thumb tracing its smooth surface as he replied, "Thank you, Norman. It was an honor to battle against you and your incredible Slaking."
Norman continued, retrieving a small TM disc and his Rotom Phone, explaining to him, "And as is customary, you also receive a money reward and TM. This is TM Retaliate. A powerful move that doubles in strength if one of your allies has just fainted. I believe it suits your style."
Azure replied, accepting the rewards, checking them with [Observe], "Thank you again, Sir, for the rewards."
[Item: Balance Badge
Rarity Item: A+
Type: Key Item
Description: A Gym Badge, commonly referred to as simply a badge, is an item that serves as proof of a Pokémon Trainer's victory in a battle against a Gym Leader at a Pokémon Gym. With this badge, Normal-Type Moves are increased by 12.5%, and controlling Pokémon is easier for the Trainer to command.]
[Item: TM Retaliate
Rarity Item: -
Type: Technical Machine
Description: A Technical Machine used to grant memory knowledge of how to perform the move [Retaliate].]
Norman then offered a more personal smile. A knowing glint appeared in Norman's eyes as he said casually, "Well, with the official business concluded, I find myself rather… peckish after such an invigorating battle. It's nearing lunchtime. Would you care to join me at the Petalburg City Noodles stand later this afternoon? I'd very much like to hear your perspective on his adventures… and perhaps some of how Ruby has been during his time with you."
Azure chuckled, knowing full well what Norman implied. Ruby, for all his talent, did have a flair for the dramatic and often left out the parts where he was in actual danger as he replied casually, "I'd be glad to, Norman. That sounds wonderful."
He looked down at Metagross, who whirred its approval, then at Pikachu and Eevee, who were already nudging his leg, clearly ready for some celebratory noodles. The battle was won, the badge earned.
But for Azure Sky, the journey was far from over. New friendships were forged, old bonds strengthened, and the path ahead beckoned with newfound promise. And for now, a good meal and a friendly chat seemed like the perfect way to recharge.
/////
[Hoenn Region, Afternoon, Petalburg City – Noodle Stand]
The noodle stand was a quaint, bustling place, the air thick with the savory aroma of broth and spices. Azure sat across from Norman, their respective Pokémon enjoying their own bowls of specially prepared Pokémon food.
Pikachu, ever the mischievous one, was vigorously squirting ketchup onto his meal, while Eevee, equally playful, followed suit with mustard. Azure sighed, a long-suffering but affectionate sound at his partner's actions.
He murmured helplessly, though a small smile played on his lips, "Pikachu, Eevee, we talked about this. You'll make yourselves sick."
Pikachu merely chirped, turning its head to blink innocently, a smear of red on its cheek. Eevee let out a playful cry, nudging its bowl closer for more condiment.
Norman chuckled, a rumbling sound that was far softer than his gym leader persona suggested. He observed, reaching for an extra napkin for Azure's two rambunctious partners, "They're quite a pair."
Azure replied, taking a generous bite of his noodles, "They keep life interesting."
After a comfortable silence filled with the sounds of slurping and occasional Pokémon chatter, Norman broached a topic that had been on his mind since Azure's name had been mentioned by a certain flamboyant traveler.
Norman began, his gaze direct. A hopeful note entered his voice as he said calmly, "Azure, my son, Ruby, you mentioned. You said both of you and Sapphire traveled together for a time. How… how was he?"
Azure paused, a knowing smile touching his lips. He set down his chopsticks, recalling the whirlwind that was Ruby as he said helplessly, "Ruby… is certainly unique."
Norman nodded, a wry grin as he replied with his arms crossed, "That he is. Always more interested in Contests than battles."
Azure slowly nodded his head, agreeing as he added fondly, "Precisely. When we first crossed paths, he was all about aesthetics, ribbons, and the beauty appeal. If you can imagine."
Norman let out a soft groan as he muttered, "That sounds like him."
Azure continued taking another bite of his noodles as he added, "He was… reluctant to battle, initially. He'd avoid it if possible, much to my annoyance at times. I'm a trainer who believes in training through challenge, and Ruby just wanted to make his Pokémon beautiful. But the Hoenn region, as you know, has its… challenges."
He recounted their journey, painting a vivid picture of Ruby's growth as he explained to Norman, "He had a charming way about him, I'll give him that. He could talk his way out of most situations or at least distract people long enough for us to escape. And when it came to helping his far more knowledgeable friend in cooking and grooming Pokémon. But he can be brave when he needs to."
Azure's expression grew serious as he explained, taking a sip of his drink, "But it was Team Magma that really tested him. We ran into them a few times. There was one incident on the Abandoned Ship where a Team Magma Admin cornered him. Ruby, despite his aversion to battle, didn't hesitate. When Sapphire was in endanger, he wasn't the one to charge in with an attack, but if push comes to shove, he can hold his own. He really shone in those moments, showcasing a different kind of strength."
Norman listened intently, a look of profound pride slowly replacing his initial skepticism as he said, "He… he did that?"
Azure confirmed with a light smile, sharing a bit of Ruby's experience, "He did. He might not have fought head-on, but he saved my hide, and many others, more than once, with his quick thinking and surprising resourcefulness. He often complained about the dirt and grime afterward, of course, but he always did what was right."
Norman prompted, a hint of a smile, "And… his Feebas?"
Azure chuckled, remembering the dramatic saga of Feefee as he said, "Ah, Feefee. Ruby adored that Pokémon. He was convinced it was beautiful even as a Feebas. He spoke constantly of its future evolution into Milotic, the most beautiful Pokémon of all."
Norman mumbled, taking a sip of his tea, "I'd heard something about that."
Azure chuckled as he explained the story behind it he saying fondly, "Well, knowing that a Feebas needs a Prism Scale to evolve, and seeing Ruby's burgeoning courage and growing strategic mind, I decided to… motivate him. I had one. I told him I'd give it to him, but not until he truly earned it. Not just through contests, but through battle, through proving his strength as a trainer. I kept it in my bag, in plain sight, but just out of reach, for quite a while."
Azure leaned back, a mischievous glint in his eye as he stated calmly, "He challenged me, constantly. At first, it was out of frustration, almost like he was just trying to annoy me into giving him the scale. His Pokémon were… not battle-ready, to say the least. But then, something shifted. He started secretly training. I'd catch him at dawn, practicing moves with Rara, or teaching Nana new tactics. He would still complain about the 'brutality' of battle, but his resolve was undeniable."
Azure concluded, a warmth in his voice as he said calmly, "He wanted that Milotic. He wanted to prove to himself, and to me, that he could overcome obstacles through sheer willpower and training. When we finally departed, he earned that Prism Scale. And when Feefee evolved into Milotic, it wasn't just a beautiful Pokémon; it was a symbol of Ruby's own growth… and protection he'll need in the future."
Norman was silent for a long moment, a slow sigh escaping him. But the sigh was followed by a broad, genuine smile. He mused to himself, "So he did train… I knew he had it in him."
He then looked at Azure, his gaze softening as he muttered, "Thank you, Azure. That… that means a lot. To hear he faced these challenges, that he grew."
Norman's mind drifted back to a day in Mauville City, a chance encounter with his son. He'd been surprised to find Ruby there, but also preparing for something more. He'd seen the determination in Ruby's eyes then, a reflection of his own.
He remembered challenging Ruby to a friendly battle, a test of his son's supposed new training regimen. Ruby had been hesitant but agreed as he had no choice. But during the battle, he saw it.
Norman had seen the spark in Ruby's eyes, the true spirit of a trainer, finally ignited. He remembered the pride he'd felt then, a quiet, paternal joy.
Returning to the present, Norman looked at Azure, a renewed sense of gratitude in his eyes as he uttered, "It's good to know he's not just a Contest-obsessed pretty boy. He's a good kid, deep down. Just… needed the right push, perhaps."
Azure slyly grinned, seeing Norman's expression as he corrected gently, "He's more than a good kid, Norman. He's a good trainer, coordinator, and a good person. He'll make you proud, I'm sure."
They finished their noodles, the conversation now lighter, touching upon Azure's plans for the rest of his Hoenn journey, and Norman's duties as a Gym Leader. As the afternoon sun began to dip, casting long shadows across the street.
Norman stood up, extending his hand once more as he said happily, "Thank you again, Azure. For the battle, for the company, and for sharing your stories about Ruby. It means more than you know."
Azure grasped his hand firmly as he replied respectfully, "The pleasure was all mine, Norman. Truly."
He turned to his faithful partners as he uttered, "Alright, you two. Time to go."
Pikachu and Eevee, now thoroughly covered in ketchup and mustard, chirped happily, their bellies full. Azure then reached for a Poké Ball attached to his belt as he said, "Gardevoir, if you please."
*Pop*
A flash of light, and the elegant, green-haired Pokémon materialized, bowing gracefully. Her serene eyes met Azure's, a silent understanding passing between them as he said calmly, "Teleport, Gardevoir. We have a long journey ahead."
With a final, polite nod to Norman, Gardevoir's hands glowed with psychic energy. The air shimmered around Azure, Pikachu, and Eevee…
*Shiii*
In a flash of blue light, they vanished, leaving behind only the lingering scent of noodles and a proud father with a newfound understanding of his son's journey. Norman watched the spot where they had stood, a thoughtful smile on his face.
He finally understood as he muttered, turning his back away, returning to the Gym, mused to himself, "… sometimes, the most profound training happened not in the arena, but in the quiet, unexpected moments of a journey. I just hope you grow up strong, son…"
/////
A/N: Reach the goal of 200 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!