Pokémon Adventures: GAMER PATH

Chapter 158: Fighting Gym Battle (1)

~Third POV~

[Johto Region, Cianwood City – Gym]

Their arrival in Cianwood City was a moment they'd anticipated, a stepping stone on Azure's path to becoming a truly renowned Pokémon Trainer. News of their impending arrival had, predictably, preceded them.

Blue Oak, Chuck's protégé and a familiar rival of Azure's, had undoubtedly relayed his observations. Chuck, the notoriously stoic Gym Leader of Cianwood, had declared a 5-on-5 Pokémon battle, a challenge that both excited and slightly unnerved Azure.

Chuck specialized in Fighting-type Pokémon, a formidable challenge for any trainer, and Azure knew this would be a true test of his strategy and his team's bond. Azure surveyed his team, assembled before him, a diverse and powerful group, each chosen for their unique strengths and their synergy with one another.

There was Skarmory, its metallic wings gleaming like polished steel, ready to soar. Mismagius, its spectral form shimmering with mischievous energy, is a master of confusion and trickery.

Heracross is a bundle of raw power and unwavering determination. Hitmontop is a whirlwind of precise kicks and acrobatic maneuvers.

Quagsire, his laid-back demeanor belying his surprising resilience and potent Water-type attacks. And finally, Ampharos, his lighthouse-like tail glowing with reassuring light, a beacon of electrical might.

Celebi, of course, remained outside the fray, her presence a quiet source of comfort and healing, her time-traveling abilities more suited to ensuring the well-being of Azure and his Pokémon than engaging in direct combat.

Chuck's gym, a sturdy, no-nonsense structure built into the rocky cliffs overlooking the sea, stood before them. The air inside was thick with the scent of exertion and the low thrum of anticipation for their match.

Chuck, a mountain of a man with powerful arms and a steely gaze, stood across the battlefield, a confident smirk playing on his lips. Chuck's voice boomed, resonating in the cavernous space, "So, Azure Sky. Blue tells me you've been making waves. Let's see if those waves can crash against the shores of Cianwood's strength."

He gestured to the battlefield, a raised platform of polished rock. He then declared sternly, "A five-on-five. No substitutions once a Pokémon faints. Are you ready?"

Azure met his gaze, a determined glint in his eyes. He declared proudly, "As I'll ever be, Chuck. Bring it on."

Chuck nodded, his smirk widening. And with that brought his Rotom Phone was activated, signaling a machine near Azure.

*Click*

*Rmbl*

Just as he said that, a strange machine came out of the ground. The rocks near Azure opened came the strange machine. There were 6 sockets in them as Azure placed the 5; he'll be choosing for this Gym Battle.

He had carefully considered his options and selected five Pokémon that he believed would give him the best chance of victory: Skarmory, Mismagius, Heracross, Ampharos, and Hitmontop.

*Ding*

Finishing scanning, Chuck checked his Rotom Phone. Smirking, he turned as a strange machine popped up for him as the waterfall beside him split, revealing 5 Pokémon of exact or tougher level for the Gym Challenge.

Pikachu, Eevee, and Celebi took to the sidelines. Chuck's eyes narrowed, showing more confidence and determination as he thought, 'My Pupil Blue spoke highly of this young man, and being the Ninth champion. I wish to see how strong he truly is and test the bond with his Pokémon.'

He took a side glance at Pikachu, Eevee, and Celebi as they cheered him on. His eyes widened, grin widening as he thought, 'He trained those two well. Incredibly well!! It makes my heart pump, wishing to see which Pokémon he chooses to battle against me!'

He reached for a Poké Ball, its surface worn smooth from countless battles. With a decisive flick of his wrist, he sent it spiraling onto the battlefield, "Go, Poliwrath!"

*Pop*

The water-like Pokémon materialized with a splash, its robust physique and determined expression immediately commanding attention. Poliwrath radiated an aura of raw power, its muscular arms already coiled, ready to strike.

Azure, recalling Blue's earlier reports about Chuck's preferred opening strategies, didn't hesitate. He knew Poliwrath's Water/Fighting typing made it a difficult opponent for many… he fought Red's Poli, so he knew they were tough Pokémon.

But he thought, baffled, seeing Chuck's Poliwrath being first, 'He sent his Poliwrath first? That's usually his endgame Pokémon in the games… what does this old martial arts master have up too…?

Azure remained cautious all the same despite seeing Poliwrath. He had a counter. He smirked as he hurled his Poke Ball, "Skarmory, I choose you!"

*Pop*

The majestic Steel/Flying-type Pokémon swooped onto the battlefield, its metallic wings creating a gust of wind that ruffled Chuck's hair. Skarmory landed with a soft thud, its sharp beak and armored body a stark contrast to Poliwrath's more organic form.

The metallic sheen of Skarmory's body seemed to absorb the dim gym light, its eyes, sharp and alert, fixed on the opposing Pokémon. Poliwrath let out a guttural roar, flexing its biceps.

Azure could feel the tension emanating from it, a powerful Fighting-type ready to unleash its fury. But he quickly ordered his setup, "Skarmory Tailwind!"

*Fwp*

Just as Skarmory rises to the air, Chuck commanded sternly, "Poliwrath! Taunt!"

Poliwrath flipped Skarmory the middle finger. It took an exception to it as Skarmory screeched, "Skar!! (YOU BASTARD!!)"

Azure frowned as Chuck countered his setup. Forced into attacks, he ordered, "Tch. Annoying, but nothing we can't handle. Fly!"

*Fwp*

Rising to the sky above, Chuck commanded, "Poliwrath, start with Bulk Up!"

Poliwrath's body pulsed with energy as it focused, its Attack and Defense stats visibly increasing. Azure knew this was a standard opening for Poliwrath, setting it up for devastating offensive maneuvers.

Azure yelled as Skarmory observed below, "Skarmory, stay sharp!"

*Fwp*

Dive bombing down at Poliwrath Skarmory, eyes narrowed. It knew that if it allowed Poliwrath to continue powering up would lead to a sweep of the team, and with its setup denied, it was forced into close combat.

Diving down, intending to strike, Poliwrath Chuck's command was swift and decisive, "Now, Poliwrath, use Ice Punch!"

Poliwrath's fist glowed with an icy blue aura as it lunged towards Skarmory. The sheer speed and power of the attack were impressive.

Azure's eyes narrowed. He quickly countered, "Skarmory, dodge, then use Strong Style! Steel Wing!"

*Wooosh*

Skarmory, despite its bulk, was surprisingly agile. It twisted its body, narrowly evading the freezing impact of Poliwrath's Ice Punch, aborting its Fly move.

The icy blast sailed past, missing its mark by mere inches. As Poliwrath's momentum carried it slightly forward, Skarmory seized the opportunity.

Its wings flared, and with a powerful beat, it propelled itself forward, its wing edges hardening into razor-sharp blades…

*CLANG*

The Steel Wing connected with a resounding CLANG against Poliwrath's tough hide. Poliwrath grunted, taking a significant amount of damage, but its Bulk Up had significantly lessened the impact.

Chuck conceded, a hint of grudging respect in his voice, "Not bad, Azure. But you'll need more than that."

He pointed a thick finger at Skarmory. Chuck commanded, "Poliwrath show'em your might! Hammer Arm!"

Poliwrath's attack was a brutal display of its physical prowess. It swung its massive arm in a wide, arcing motion, aiming to crush Skarmory. The sheer force behind the attack was enough to make the ground tremble.

Azure knew Skarmory's Flying typing would give it an advantage against Hammer Arm, a Fighting-type move. He countered, "Skarmory, Aerial Ace!"

*Shinng*

Skarmory, sensing the danger, took to the air, its wings beating with renewed vigor. It soared above Poliwrath, becoming an unhittable target for the ground-bound attack. As Poliwrath's Hammer Arm slammed into the empty air with a thunderous boom, Skarmory dove.

*Fwp*

Its speed was incredible, a blur of metallic silver. Then came the booming sound…

*BOOOM*

Aerial Ace struck Poliwrath with pinpoint accuracy, bypassing its defenses entirely when a golden glow of a critical hit. The attack was swift and devastating, leaving Poliwrath visibly weakened, staggering slightly, and getting a critical hit from Skarmory.

Chuck shouted, his usual calm fraying slightly as he ordered, "Hold on, Poliwrath! Use Mind Reader!"

Poliwrath's eyes glowed with a fierce intensity. A psychic wave pulsed from its forehead, seemingly locking onto Skarmory.

Azure felt a subtle shift in the air; a psychic lock was being established. He knew what Mind Reader did: it guaranteed the next attack would hit.

Chuck's voice was a roar of command, "Now, Poliwrath! Surf!"

*SPLASH*

A colossal wave of water erupted from the side of the arena, surging towards the battlefield. The sheer volume and force of the water were immense, threatening to overwhelm Skarmory.

Despite Skarmory's Flying typing, Surf was a Water-type move, and it would deal neutral damage. The Mind Reader ensured it would connect.

*SLAM*

Skarmory, caught in the path of the massive wave, was battered and tossed around. The water slammed into its metallic body with incredible force, the impact amplified by the guaranteed hit from Mind Reader.

Skarmory struggled to maintain its composure, its wings soaked and heavy. Azure winced as Skarmory crashed onto the battlefield, sputtering as he thought, 'The power of Surf was undeniable, and the guaranteed hit had been a critical factor. Damn.'

Regaining control, Azure called out, a flicker of concern in his voice, but his resolve hardening, "Skarmory! We're not out yet!"

He looked at Skarmory, seeing the determination still flickering in its sharp eyes. Skarmory, with a monumental effort, pushed itself up onto its feet.

*Thud*

Its metallic body was dented, and its wings drooped, but it stood firm. Azure knew this was Skarmory's chance to use its resilience to its advantage, a trait he had carefully cultivated through training with his team members.

Chuck, seeing Skarmory still standing, let out a gruff chuckle. He said with crossed arms, impressed by their determination, "Impressive tenacity. Alright, Poliwrath, finish this with Dynamic Punch!"

*Woooosh*

Poliwrath's fist glowed with a fiery red aura, and it charged at Skarmory with incredible speed. Dynamic Punch was a move known for its immense power, and when it hit, it also confused the target.

On its own, it would have been a dangerous move for Skarmory. But with Mind Reader guaranteeing the hit, it was even more perilous.

Azure felt a surge of adrenaline. He knew Skarmory was heavily damaged, but he also knew its typing gave it neutral resistance to Fighting-type moves.

Azure acted fast as he ordered, "Skarmory, Agile Style! Peck!"

It was a risky move. Skarmory was still recovering from the Surf, but Azure needed to disrupt Poliwrath's attack. Skarmory, with a final burst of effort, launched itself forward, its beak aimed directly at Poliwrath's charging form.

*BOOOOM*

The clash was brutal. Dynamic Punch connected with Skarmory's head, the impact echoing through the arena. Skarmory staggered, a wave of dizziness washing over it… But simultaneously, Skarmory's peck, though weaker, struck Poliwrath's snout.

The confusion effect of Dynamic Punch kicked in for Skarmory, its vision blurring, its movements becoming erratic. But as it stumbled, its peck had also landed, a small victory in the face of overwhelming odds.

Poliwrath, momentarily disoriented by the peck, hesitated. The guaranteed hit had been used, and its next attack was not guaranteed in its exhausted state.

Azure commanded, sensing the slight opening, "Now, Skarmory, Air Slash!"

*Fwp*

*Shinng*

Despite its confusion, Skarmory's instincts took over. It unleashed a barrage of sharp air currents, slicing through the air towards Poliwrath.

*Smack*

The Air Slash hit Poliwrath square in the chest, causing it to stumble back. Chuck, seeing his Poliwrath falter, scowled as he yelled, "You're pushing your luck, Azure. Poliwrath, end it with an Ice Beam!"

*PEW*

A beam of freezing energy shot from Poliwrath's mouth, aiming directly for the already battered Skarmory. Azure's heart leaped into his throat.

Skarmory's confusion made it vulnerable to this powerful Ice-type attack. Azure cried out, "Skarmory, no!"

*SMACK*

The Ice Beam struck Skarmory with full force. The attack was devastating.

*Thud*

Skarmory's metallic body, already weakened, couldn't withstand the intense cold. With a final, pained cry, Skarmory collapsed onto the battlefield, its metallic wings falling still. The referee declared, "Skarmory is unable to battle!"

A hush fell over the spectators. Azure's first Pokémon was down. He walked over to the fainted Skarmory, gently stroking its cold metal feathers.

Pikachu and Eevee nudged his hand, a silent offering of comfort. Celebi let out another soft hum, her gaze filled with empathy.

Azure whispered, his voice filled with pride despite the loss, "Good battle, Skarmory."

He returned Skarmory to its Poké Ball, its brave stand etched in his mind. Chuck nodded, his expression grim, "A valiant effort. But this is just the beginning… Now, who's next is the question?"

Azure took a deep breath, the scent of ozone from the Ice Beam still lingering in the air. He knew this wouldn't be easy.

But as he looked at his remaining team, a renewed determination surged through him. He had four Pokémon left, and he was ready to unleash their full potential.

The path to becoming a Pokémon Master was paved with challenges, and he was ready to face them, one battle at a time. A small chuckle escaped his lips as he looked at Chuck with a glint of wariness in his eyes as he muttered silently to himself, "So this is Blue's mentor, huh? His certainly going to be a troublesome opponent. And it would make it all that much sweeter when I win this gym, as I still have you four left to go. Right, guys?"

His Poke Balls shook equally excited at the challenge ahead. Taking a deep breath, Azure surveyed his team, selecting the Pokémon best suited for this initial encounter.

He needed someone who could match Poliwrath's physical prowess, someone agile enough to counter its raw power. Knowing who to pick, he grabbed its Poke Ball as he declared, hurling it out, "Hitmontop, I choose you!"

*Pop*

The Fighting-type Pokémon landed gracefully in the arena, its head bobbing as it surveyed Poliwrath. Hitmontop, with its distinctive spinning kicks, was Azure's answer to Chuck's physical might.

It was a Pokémon that relied on technique and precision, a perfect foil to Poliwrath's brute strength. The referee signaled the start of the battle, "Poliwrath and Hitmontop, let the battle begin!"

*Zooom*

Poliwrath wasted no time, its powerful legs propelling it forward. It launched into a fierce Hammer Arm, its fist glowing with immense force, aimed directly at Hitmontop.

Azure commanded, "Dodge it, Hitmontop! Agile Style! Aerial Ace!"

*Zoooom*

With incredible agility, Hitmontop spun on its head, its body a blur as it narrowly avoided the devastating Hammer Arm using Aerial Ace. The force of the blow sent a tremor through the arena floor.

*Rmbl*

Given the chance, Azure ordered, "Now! Rapid Spin!"

*Woooosh*

Hitmontop spun on its head, its body a blur as it swiftly attacked Poliwrath. It managed to get a strike as Poliwrath grunted, momentarily staggered by the Handstand Pokémon as Chuck analyzed the situation, 'His raising its Speed Stat. And with my partner already injured battling Skarmory, the outcome is already decided, but…'

He grinned as he commanded, "Go! Hammer Arm!"

Lunging forward, its arm coated in fighting-type energy, as Poliwrath attempted to attack Hitmontop. But Azure ordered, "Now, use Mach Punch!"

*SMASH*

Hitmontop's fist blurred with speed, connecting with Poliwrath's side in a rapid succession of jabs. Poliwrath grunted, momentarily staggered by the rapid-fire attack.

Poliwrath took to a knee as the earlier battle showed its exhaustion. Chuck smirked as he commented, "A good start, but you can't just rely on speed. Poliwrath, use Ice Punch!"

Poliwrath let out a mighty roar, striking a pose as its muscles visibly swelled. The icy energy crackled around Poliwrath's fist as it charged again.

Azure remained calm as he countered, arms crossed, "Use Detect! Then end it with an Aerial Ace Hitmontop!"

*Wooosh*

Hitmontop leaped, managing to use Detect to avoid the devastating Ice Punch. Given the brief window of opportunity, as Poilwrath waved its arm finished its Ice Punch. Hitmontop didn't hesitate to strike with an Aerial Ace.

Its arms and legs glowed light blue, and it hit Poliwrath with them. Hitmontop slashed through Poliwrath at the crucial moment, delivering the final blow.

*Shinng*

*THUD*

Moving extremely fast, Hitmontop was now behind Poliwrath as the light of Aerial Ace faded, and then Poliwrath stumbled down. Plopping down, it showed it fainted as Hitmontop waved its arms smiling proudly, "Hit! Hitmontop! (Hahaha! Yes! Victory for Hitmontop!)"

The referee watched closely. Poliwrath lay on the ground, unmoving, its eyes glazed over. After a moment, the referee raised his hand as he declared, "Poliwrath is unable to battle! Hitmontop wins!"

A cheer erupted from Azure's team waiting on the sidelines. Pikachu leaped into the air, his tail wagging furiously. Eevee gave a happy bark, and Celebi chirped with glee, showering the arena with shimmering light.

Chuck strode over, a grudging respect in his eyes. He recalled his Poliwrath, patting it gently on the head. He turned back to Azure, he said excitedly, "Well fought, Hitmontop. You've got skill. You've shown me you can handle a direct assault. Now, let's see how you fare against something with a bit more… flair."

Azure got cautious hearing this. He remained on guard along with his Pokémon against what Chuck had in store...

/////

A/N: Reach the goal of 100 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!