Chapter 11: A Legend Awakens
"Let's make this quick and easy! Use Brick Break!" Sapphire commanded.
"Coming up! Watch out, buddy! This is gonna hurt!" Iron Fist yelled.
The little Kubfu sprang into the air and somersaulted, his arm raised high to strike down on Zorua. But Zorua proved to be much faster than they expected for it was able to jump to one side to avoid Iron Fist's attack. Usually, Kubfu were faster than Zorua but this one had been trained to be quite speedy to avoid the inevitable Fighting attacks of the Kubfus that came here to challenge it. Now the Zorua had dodged, the student ordered it to use Nasty Plot. It was a move that boosted a Pokémon's Special Attack, a handy move especially for Special Attackers like Zorua. The black fox Pokémon stood still for a minute, its head filling itself with bad thoughts until its body glowed orange to signify the Special Attack boost. Sapphire narrowed her eyes in thought. She'd have to be careful now otherwise the Zorua would really be able to do some damage. As far as she knew, Zorua couldn't learn any attacks that were super-effective against Fighting types so that was useful. But with Nasty Plot boosting Zorua's Special Attack, it'd still be able to hit hard.
"Now use Shadow Ball!" the student cried.
Zorua opened its mouth and blasted Iron Fist with an ectoplasmic sphere of energy. Iron Fist grunted as the Shadow Ball hit him and made him stumble backwards from the attack. Thanks to Nasty Plot, the Shadow Ball had hit him harder than normal. He wasn't too badly hurt but Iron Fist could see that he had to end this battle quickly before the tables really turned on him. Sapphire ordered him to use Brick Break again. Iron Fist sprinted towards Zorua and swung his hand in a chopping motion towards it. Zorua dodged the attack again and shot back by using Dark Pulse. While normally it wasn't very effective against Fighting types, the boost from Nasty Plot had made Dark Pulse hit harder than normal. Iron Fist grunted as he was bit by the dark energy wave. He was still standing but the damage he'd taken was already threatening to effect his performance. If he kept taking hits like this, the battle would be over and the trial would be done with before Sapphire could get past the first floor. She tried one last time by ordering Iron Fist to use Brick Break again. The bear Pokémon sprinted towards his opponent with his paw raised high above his head. Zorua tried to dodge but Iron Fist came in a fraction too quickly and this time, landed the blow. Zorua yelped as it was hit by the blow and sent skidding across the floor. Zorua were Pokémon with very low defences so the single attack had been enough to knock it out. The student looked disappointed. He'd hoped to have given more of a challenge to the new student that had become the newest Armour Warrior and yet she'd managed to clear his floor the moment Iron Fist was able to land a hit! He returned his Pokémon and bowed.
"Excellent battling. You've clearly raised Kubfu well." he said politely, "But I warn you, the battles in the upper floors will be much more challenging."
"I kinda expected that." Sapphire said casually, "It always gets harder the further you go on in these challenges."
She climbed up the stairs and found herself on the second floor of the tower. The student awaiting her this time was a girl, a pretty redhead with freckles who looked more lively and chipper than the first student on Floor 1. Sapphire thought she looked cute but she didn't let that get in the way of what she was here for. The redhead gave Sapphire a friendly smile.
"Hey there, Armour Warrior!" she said brightly, "Glad you could make it up here! To be fair, that's not saying much as the first floor is always the easiest one but that's beside the point. I hope I can give you a REAL challenge as another of Mustard's elite students!"
"Give me all you got." Sapphire dared, "Me and Iron Fist are ready for anything!"
"Can't wait to see it! Let's goooooooooo!" the student said as she tossed her Pokéball.
This student had a Scraggy to challenge the Armour Warrior with. As a Dark/Fighting type, it still had a weakness to Fighting types but Sapphire knew that the Fighting typing would give Scraggy a much wider move set to use than Zorua before it. She'd be foolish to underestimate its battle prowess, even if she was the one with a Legendary Pokémon on her side.
"OK Iron Fist, this is the perfect time to use your new move. Use Aerial Ace!" Sapphire commanded.
Iron Fist leapt into action immediately, raising his arm and swiping it at Scraggy. As Aerial Ace was a Flying move, it was super-effective against the lizard-like Pokémon and thus, a good move to start with. The Scraggy was much too slow to react as by their very nature, they weren't particularly fast Pokémon. It winced as Iron Fist scythed it across the face with Aerial Ace. The Scraggy stumbled backwards, the baggy skin around its legs nearly falling down as it was hit. It rubbed its face and narrowed its eyes. It had the sort of face that suggested play time was over and things were about to get serious. Its trainer still had her chipper expression and she gave her first command.
"Use Dragon Dance!" she cooed.
Sapphire stared in amazement. No way! Scraggy could learn Dragon Dance?! She never knew that about the species! Scraggy began jumping up and down while pirouetting in the air, the dance moves giving it a boost to its Attack and its Speed. Now it would be faster than usual and be able to hit twice as hard! Sapphire just had to hope it didn't know any super-effective moves.
"Use Brick Break and bring it down before it can fight back!" Sapphire ordered.
Iron Fist raised his paw again and tried to karate-chop the Scraggy in the head. But as he ran towards his opponent, Scraggy dodged out of the way, moving much faster than it would've done without Dragon Dance. It was able to keep up with Iron Fist now and dodge attacks more easily with its increased speed. After dodging, Scraggy hit back by using Zen Headbutt. The student had taught her Pokémon such a move for precisely such an occasion like this. What better move to use against a Kubfu than a strong Psychic move like Zen Headbutt? The Scraggy head-butted Iron Fist with its psychic powered cranium and he was sent flying backwards from the hit. Sapphire gasped as she watched Iron Fist hurled through the air in a neat rainbow arch and he crashed down heavily. He'd landed on his shoulder and he grimaced as he banged it. He picked himself up while rubbing his shoulder. Unlike the Zorua earlier, that had been a real hard hit thanks to being a super-effective attack boosted by Dragon Dance to be even stronger. Sapphire had to wonder how tough the third and fourth floors were going to be if this was how tough the second floor was! She refused to give up that easily and waited for Iron Fist to recover before giving her next command.
"OK, looks like we're going to have to fight smart for this one." Sapphire declared, "Remember the dodging tactics we learned from Klara this morning! That'll help us stay in the fight!"
"I sure hope so." Iron Fist muttered.
They'd only learned the moves this morning so there was no guarantee that he'd do them perfectly. No better time to put it to the test than right now!
Scraggy lowered his head and charged towards Iron Fist again with another Zen Headbutt attack. Sapphire wasn't surprised. It was clear that Student 2 wanted to finish this fight as quickly as possible and spamming a super-effective move was the best way to achieve this. The lizard-like Pokémon came close to landing a hit but Iron Fist dodged out the way by spinning to the side at the last minute. It was something that Klara had told them that made for effective dodging, wait until the attack is close to hitting and then dodge so the opponent won't be able to stop and change direction in time. The Scraggy missed Iron Fist completely and had to waste time skidding to a halt, leaving it open for the Wushu Pokémon to come in and use Brick Break on its back. Scraggy cried out in pain and landed on its stomach. It picked itself up and tried to use Zen Headbutt on Iron Fist again but he blocked it with a flurry of movements from his hands and feet. Then he finished the fight off by using Close Combat. Sapphire felt using his strongest move right at the end would be the best way to bring the battle to a close and Iron Fist wouldn't have to worry about the drawbacks that came with Close Combat as Scraggy would be unconscious and unable to continue fighting. Iron Fist pounded his opponent multiple times with Close Combat, throwing punch after punch after punch while his body was bathed in red energy. Scraggy couldn't take the punches and after Iron Fist hit it one last time, it was knocked down on its back and it drifted away into unconsciousness. Student 2 just shrugged and returned her Pokémon.
"Ah well, you can't win them all." she said casually, "Well done, Armour Warrior! I think at the rate you're going, you'll reach Master Mustard in no time!"
"Thank you." Sapphire said appreciatively, "But you don't have to call me "Armour Warrior", you can call me Sapphire."
"Sorry. We just think it's politer to refer to the Armour Warrior by his or her title." Student 2 said sheepishly, "Anyway, I warn you about the third floor, you're in for a true battle up there!"
"I'll soon see for myself." Sapphire said bravely.
She climbed the stairs up to the third floor, which looked identical to the other two floors. Whoever built this tower certainly didn't have the most creative imagination in designing interiors for all the floors seemed to look the same! Sapphire took her place in the marked arena, where her third opponent was standing opposite her. He was another boy this time, black with long dreadlocks and a serious face. He looked like the kind of trainer that saw Pokémon battles as more than just a fun sport to participate in. He gave a confident smirk when he saw Sapphire standing opposite him.
"So you've made it up to my floor." he boomed, his voice much deeper than what Sapphire would've expected coming out of a teenager, "We always expect the Armour Warrior to get far. But this is far you get, Sapphire. Some Armour Warriors before you have often fell to my skills as a trainer and I assure you, you'll never reach the master at the top!"
Sapphire knew that Student 3 wasn't being serious. Mustard would've let him know that Zeraora was coming and that it was vital she cleared this trial in order to make Iron Fist strong enough to face the legendary Pokémon. He wouldn't want the elite students to stop her getting to the top. He was trying to motivate her to do her best, simple as that and her best he was going to get!
Student 3 sent out his Pokémon. This time, Sapphire was facing an Inkay, the pre-evolved form of Malamar. Sapphire remembered Malamar from the times Ruby had faced against former Spikemuth Gym Leader Piers and she could easily see how Inkay was the Pokémon that evolved into it. It looked like a squid, only right side up instead of upside down like its evolved form. It had a transparent mantle with a rounded pink body inside, four circular yellow lights, two transparent tentacles attached to either side of its mantle with smaller blue tentacles attached to its body and it had round black eyes and a small pink beak-like mouth. Despite their squid-like appearance, curiously enough Inkay were not actually Water-types, but Psychic/Dark types. This dropped the usual Dark-type weakness to Fighting as a result and the only weaknesses Inkay did have were Bug and Fairy-types. Iron Fist didn't have any attacks from those types so he was in for a much tougher competition now. Inkay would have a type-advantage due to being half Psychic so Iron Fist would have to hope he could defeat Inkay before it could exploit his weaknesses.
"OK Iron Fist, we'll have to make due with no type-advantage for this one." Sapphire declared, "But we can do more than just hit hard! Show this trainer what you can do with Iron Head!" she yelled.
Iron Fist lowered his head and charged into Inkay. His cranium was coated in steel as he charged Once again, he was dealing with a Pokémon that his species were naturally faster than so he was able to hit before Inkay could even try to dodge. The squid-like Pokémon winced as it was knocked back by the Iron Head. Student 3 ordered Inkay to fight back by using Psycho Cut but to his horror, the Inkay was too frightened to move. It cowered in fright from the attack and shivered. Iron Head was an attack that could potentially make the Pokémon flinch if it hit and that was why Sapphire had used it now. She reasoned that if Iron Fist could make the Inkay flinch, it wouldn't be able to fight back with its Psychic moves and exploit Iron Fist's weakness to the type. While Inkay was immobilized, Sapphire ordered Iron Fish to use Brick Break on it. The bear cub raised his arm and swung it straight down on Inkay's mantle. The Psychic/Dark type swayed on its tentacles for a moment, feeling dizzy from the attack. Sapphire felt a surge of excitement in her stomach. Maybe this duel was going to be easier than she thought. She ordered Iron Fist to use Iron Head again, hoping to make Inkay flinch and stop it from attacking again But as Iron Fist lowered his head and ran towards his opponent, Student 3 made his move.
"Not so fast! Use Trick Room!" he commanded.
Inkay raised its tentacles and its eyes glowed as a holographic box formed around the entire arena and Iron Fist suddenly found himself going slower and slower. Sapphire cursed mentally at what was happening. Trust that student to have a Pokémon that knows Trick Room! She knew full well what it did thanks to owning a Dusknoir that knew the move too. Trick Room was a move that flipped the dimensions on the battlefield to make fast Pokémon slow and slow Pokémon fast. Now the Inkay would be faster than Iron Fist! Because Iron Fist had been slowed down by Trick Room, Inkay was able to dodge his Iron Head and avoid flinching again. Once Inkay had dodged, it struck back at Iron Fist with Psycho Cut. Its tentacles glowed pink with psychic energy and it swiped at the Kubfu as if they were a pair of swords. Iron Fist yelled in pain as he was hit and he fell down onto his back, grunting from the attack. Psycho Cut was an attack with a high critical-hit ratio but luckily, it had only done regular damage this time. If it had been a critical hit, Iron Fist would likely have lost the battle. Sapphire forced herself to think for a minute. What would be the best way to work around Trick Room now Inkay was faster than Iron Fist? Klara's tactics were out the window now as it'd be much harder to dodge with his speed being lowered. Maybe instead of trying to avoid being hit, she could try letting Inkay get close to Iron Fist and have Iron Fist attack once it was in range? It was worth a shot, as risky as it would be to try.
Inkay came in again with another Psycho Cut attack. Iron Fist stood his ground and waited for Sapphire to give him a command. He assumed Sapphire had a plan, even though she wasn't telling him to do anything yet. Sweat trickled down his head as Inkay came in closer and closer with its psychic coated tentacles. He wanted to try dodging but it would be useless as the Inkay would be too fast. Then just as Inkay was about to attack, Sapphire ordered him to use Iron Head. With seconds to spare, Iron Fist's head was coated in steel and Inkay's Psycho Cut sliced across it. Thanks to the steel coating, Iron Fist had been able to cushion Inkay's attack and stop it from doing the damage that he would've received if he hadn't attacked. Now Inkay was up close and personal, Iron Fist was able to land a blow on it. He lunged forward with his iron head-butt attack and he sent the Inkay hurling backwards. Student 3 gasped, amazed that Sapphire had found a way around his Inkay's Trick Room. He'd never seen anyone try anything like that before! He tried to order Inkay to use another Psycho Cut but his Pokémon had once again flinched thanks to Iron Head. It couldn't move. Seizing her chance, Sapphire ordered Iron Fist to finish it off with one last Close Combat. The ursine Pokémon charged towards the stunned Inkay and clobbered it with a flurry of punches and kicks that came in too fast for the naked eye to see. Seconds later, Inkay was down on its back and completely wiped out from the attack. Student 3 was incredulous to see his Pokémon had been defeated, and just when it seemed he had the key to victory. He returned it to its Pokéball and applauded Sapphire.
"It's clear you're a trainer with a sharp mind and is quick-thinking on the battlefield." Student 3 complimented, "It's plain for everyone to see why you're the Armour Warrior for this term. I think even Mustard will have to watch out for you."
"Well…thank you. I'm not sure what else to say." Sapphire said bashfully, "I'm amazed I came out on top despite that Trick Room you pulled out!"
"Indeed. I thought I had you on the ropes once Inkay activated it." Student 3 agreed, "Nevertheless, you progress onto the fourth floor. I'm sure you'll make it past that floor no problem and will win the chance to face our master."
Sapphire bowed in thanks and then went up to the fourth floor. As they climbed the stairs, she noticed that Iron Fist was starting to look a little worn out. He was lagging behind a bit as he followed her upstairs and he wiped his forehead. Sapphire turned around and sat down on one of the steps.
"Oh dear, are you getting a bit tired?" she asked softly, "Here, this'll perk you up."
She gave Iron Fist a spray from a Full Restore potion she always carried with her in her backpack. Iron Fist smiled graciously as he was sprayed. He began to feel much better now, like the fatigue of his previous three fights were all gone.
"I hope this isn't cheating." he said with concern.
"Oh no, Mustard never said I couldn't heal you up between battles." Sapphire reassured him, "He would've told me if that was a rule. Besides, I imagine even if it was a rule, he'd turn a blind-eye to it this once because he'll want us to pass the trial. He won't want us to fail and stop you from becoming an Urshifu in time for Zeraora's arrival."
"I guess that makes sense." Iron Fist thought, "It might explain why our challenges have all been against unevolved Pokémon. He doesn't want it to be too hard for us given the circumstances."
"Maybe so." Sapphire thought, "Still, we have one more floor to go and then we can battle Mustard for the right to evolve you. If you're ready, let's go!"
Iron Fist nodded. He was ready to go now that he'd recovered with the help of Sapphire's Full Restore. The two carried on up the stairs until they reached the fourth floor. Of course, it looked identical to the previous three floors with the only difference being a different trainer this time. This one was another girl, dark-skinned with short purplish-brown hair in a Pixie cut style, hazel eyes and a geeky personality. She looked to be as fun and lively as the girl on Floor 2, making Sapphire wonder why the boys were both serious sticks-in-the-mud while the girls were more perky and fun.
"Hola Armour Warrior!" Student 4 said cheerfully, "I'm glad you made it to me. I was hoping I'd get a chance to battle you! You must've trained Kubfu really well to make it this far!"
"Considering I've only had yesterday afternoon and this morning to get him up to speed…yeah, I'm pretty chuffed I'm doing so well too." Sapphire said with a chuckle, "I aim to conquer this tower and be ready to face Zeraora when he gets here!" she declared.
"And believe me, I'm as keen to see you defeat that monster as much as anyone else." Student 4 agreed, "But you've gotta get through me first. I only wish my girlfriend was watching now as she always loves to watch me battle!"
Sapphire pursed her lips with interest. So this student had a girlfriend too? That was something they could relate to. What was she like and was she anywhere on the island dreading Zeraora's return as well? Hopefully she and this student wouldn't have to suffer his wrath. Student 4 threw her Pokéball and brought out the final Pokémon that Sapphire would have to defeat before going to the top floor. It was a Krokorok, the first Pokémon Sapphire had come across in the tower that wasn't a Stage 1 Pokémon. A Stage 2 Pokémon should be more of a challenge, especially as Iron Fist was only a Stage 1 Pokémon himself. She also knew from owning a fully evolved Krookodile that Krokoroks were strong Pokémon so facing one herself would be a challenge.
One thing Sapphire had now was that Iron Fist had a type-advantage again with Krokoroks being weak to Fighting-types and Krokorok couldn't learn any attacks there were super-effective against Fighting-types so Iron Fist had that going for him. She made the first move by ordering Iron Fist to use Brick Break. The Kubfu sprang into action and attacked. His arm swiped through the air towards the crocodilian Pokémon but he didn't get to hit as Student 4 countered the move by ordering Krokorok to use Protect. Krokorok held up its hands and conjured up a barrier that blocked Iron Fist's attack. Sapphire didn't think the battle would be as easy as that. With Protect to block Iron Fist's moves, the Krokorok had an effective way to keep him on his toes. After that had happened, Krokorok struck back by using Earthquake. It stomped down on the floor and a huge fissure ripped up the wooden floorboards as it punched its way towards Iron Fist. Luckily for him, Klara had taught him how to avoid Earthquakes the way her Salazzle did when it had battled Terri yesterday. Iron Fist sprang into the air just before the Earthquake could hit him. The attack passed by underneath him, Student 4 and her Krokorok both sharing the same incredulous expression.
"Whoa, that's some neat jumping!" she exclaimed, "It's like what Klara did with her Salazzle when you two battled yesterday!"
"Oh, you saw that?" Sapphire said in astonishment.
"All four of us were watching the battle yesterday!" Student 4 explained, "It's our duty to know who the next Armour Warrior is so we can be prepared. You think we'd miss the crowning of the next warrior we have to train?"
"Good point." Sapphire acknowledged, "Well, let's just say Klara was kind enough to pass on some of her tactics to me and my Pokémon. We especially hope to use her moves against Zeraora when the time comes."
Iron Fist landed on the floor and he tried to use another Brick Break on Krokorok. Just like the first time, the crocodile Pokémon was able to block the move with Protect. But Iron Fist didn't stop there. After Krokorok had used Protect, he somersaulted through the air and landed behind his opponent. He swiped at it with Brick Break but Krokorok raised its tail up and blocked his attack. Krokorok had very strong tails that could handle a lot of hits so it was easily able to hold back Iron Fist's Brick Break. Krokorok then flicked its tail backwards and knocked Iron Fist down. While he was on his back, the Dark/Ground type Pokémon turned around and picked him up with its jaws in a Crunch attack. Iron Fist seemed to weigh nothing in its jaws as it effortlessly picked him up. Then it swung its head to one side and threw Iron Fist through the air like a stone. Iron Fist cried out as he was sent spiralling backwards and just as he was coming in to land, Krokorok used Earthquake again. Iron Fist touched down only to be hit and sent flying up into the ceiling as Earthquake punched towards him and flicked him away. Sapphire grimaced, feeling Iron Fist's pain. She had to wonder what Mustard would think was going on down here as he was in the top floor and had no doubt felt and heard that impact. Iron Fist peeled away from the ceiling and fell down to the floor. Student 4 jumped up with excitement.
"Whoo hoo! Krokorok, eso fue increíble*!" she cried in delight, "You really know how to use that Crunch and Earthquake combo! Now let's finish the battle before Kubfu gets up again!"
Krokorok grinned deviously, clearly enjoying the fact it was winning the fight and was going to bring it to a close. The crocodilian Pokémon ran towards Iron Fist, its jaws wide open and ready to use Crunch to pick him up again. But as it came into distance to bite down and pick up Iron Fist, Sapphire ordered him to use Close Combat at the last minute. Iron Fist lashed out with Close Combat, socking his opponent in the jaws and stopping Krokorok from biting him. He then pounded on his opponent repeatedly with rapid punches and kicks once again. As Krokorok were Pokémon with poor defences, the single Close Combat was just too much for it and it passed out, unable to fight any longer. Student 4 stared in amazement at her downed Pokémon while Iron Fist panted. He was worn out from that work out but nonetheless triumphant and very pleased with himself.
"Whew…we won! That was a lucky shot from me to turn that around!" he cried.
"It sure was." Sapphire agreed, "It's fortunate for us that Krokoroks can't really take a hit well."
Student 4 returned her Pokémon and gave a friendly smile to show that there were no hard feelings over the loss.
"It sucks I lost, but congratulations to you!" she said jovially, "You've passed the four floors of the tower! Now you've just got Mustard left and you'll have cleared the tower! Good luck up there."
"I have a feeling I'm going to need it!" Sapphire chuckled, "Mustard's a former Champion and the man in charge of the island. He'll be no cakewalk for me and Iron Fist!"
"You bet he won't. But don't worry, me and the others will be rooting for you." Student 4 said supportively, "I'll be sure to let my girlfriend know how you did with me and if you pass the final floor."
"Thanks." Sapphire said brightly, "And if you don't mind, I'd like to meet her anytime when this is over."
Student 4 gave her the thumbs up to say that she was cool with that. She stepped aside to let Sapphire go up to the top floor. This was it, the trial ended here and it would conclude with a victory for her or a victory for Mustard. She knew Mustard would want her to win given Zeraora's return, but she also knew she wouldn't make it easy for her. This was going to be the biggest challenge she was going through since her arrival here on the island…
"Whew…I think that's all the laundry sorted, Honey." Klara puffed, wiping her forehead as she put away one last dojo uniform she'd finished ironing.
"It is, dear. Thanks so much for your help." Honey said appreciatively, "You know, you can be quite helpful when you want to be."
"Well I can't really say no to a punishment from Mustard." Klara said queasily, "I don't have to like it, but it's better than getting kicked off the island like I initially suspected!"
"At least you'll know not to cheat at his trials next time, won't you?" Honey teased.
Klara frowned but said nothing. She had a feeling it would be a while before people stopped taunting her about her attempts to cheat yesterday.
While Sapphire was in the Tower of Darkness going through her next trial, Klara had been hard at work doing the laundry with Honey. That of course was part of her extra cleaning duties that Mustard had put her up for as punishment. It had been exhausting for her, sorting out all the dojo uniforms and ironing them so they were nice and neat for anyone who was going to wear them again. Being lazy and doted on for so long had left Klara with no real idea on what hard work was really like, Pokémon training notwithstanding. She only knew one thing and that was she certainly wasn't going to break any rules again if this was how cheaters were punished! Although the laundry was done, Klara knew that it wasn't the end of her cleaning duties by any means.
"So what's next?" she asked, dreading the answer before Honey had even said it.
"Oh nothing for the time being." Honey said kindly, "You'll be mopping up all the floors of the dojo later on but not right now. I usually save that for the end of the day. I expect you in the kitchen to help with washing the pots after lunch."
"Will do." Klara said, trying not to sound annoyed, "Say, how do you think Sapphire's doing in the Tower of Darkness right now?" she added quickly to change the subject.
"Oh I bet the little dear's already at the top to face my darling husband right now." the Dojo Matron thought, "With how she's performed this term, it wouldn't surprise me."
"I don't see why Sapph has to go through a whole new trial just to evolve her Kubfu." the Poison Gym Leader muttered, "Wouldn't it make more sense to just give her the scroll and let Kubfu evolve right away? I mean we're kinda wasting time we should be spending getting ready for Zeraora."
"You know we can't just let Sapphire evolve Kubfu like that." Honey said sternly, "If we evolve him without letting him prove he's ready for it, he won't be as strong as he needs to be. My husband has to test Sapphire on her skills as a trainer for Zeraora is no ordinary Pokémon. If we don't train her like we're doing now, she won't be strong enough. Mustard will want her to pass, of course, but we can't just give her a win without making her work for it. It may not make sense to you, but it's what needs to be done."
Klara still thought it would be better to just let Iron Fist evolve without the need of another trial but she supposed Honey had a point. What better way to test somebody if they were truly ready to face a Legendary Pokémon than by putting them through a trial they had to clear to prove as such? At least when Iron Fist evolved, he would be able to carry his battle experience with him into his next stage as an Urshifu. It would be better than having him evolve and still be inexperienced at battling.
"I guess that makes sense." Klara accepted, "Still, I hope she puts my teachings to good use in both that tower and when she fights Zeraora."
"Oh I think she'll do just that." Honey reassured her, "Sapphire strikes me as a very strategic trainer who knows how to put her tactics to good use. She'll do the same for what you've taught her. I'm still amazed that you didn't get on with her at first and yet you've selflessly decided to help her out by giving her handy battle tactics to use against Zeraora."
"I owe her that much for inspiring me to try harder and make more of an effort in my endeavours." Klara admitted.
Honey beamed. It was always nice in her eyes when people who don't get along at first become friendlier to each other over time. She was about to say something else until suddenly, a Pokémon glided into the dojo and headed towards her and Klara. It was Emolga. Honey held out her arm for Emolga to perch on as she homed in towards her. The matron could see from Emolga's face that it wasn't good news.
"What is it, dear?" she asked worriedly.
"I'm afraid the Wailord wasn't able to slow Zeraora down as much as we hoped." the electric flying squirrel said grimly, "He picked up on the deception and forced the Wailord to turn around or else he'd electrocute it to death. He'll be here within hours now!"
"Oh no…my son's far from finished with the Prison Ball!" Honey gasped in horror, "We'll never get it ready in time for Zeraora's arrival! We must find another way to delay him!"
"I'm not sure there IS another way to delay him!" Emolga said in defeat, "What can we do? The ocean has many Water Pokémon but they can't exactly slow him down much when he can just electrocute them all easily! I think all we can do is just wait for him to arrive and hope he doesn't kill us all!"
"No…we must find another way. If he gets here before the Prison Ball is done, then we have no hope of stopping him!" Honey shrieked, "It's the only way we can seal him away for good!"
Klara took all this in with a growing sense of dread. So it seemed the plan wouldn't work after all. If they defeated Zeraora now, they only wasted time trying to keep him contained until the Prison Ball was completed, then he could potentially recover from the beating he took and either flee or try again to kill everyone. Someone had to try and slow him down or delay his return! But how? Klara thought for a moment. Maybe she could give it a try. Of course, there was no chance she'd actually beat Zeraora but if she could delay him, that would at least be enough. With her Poison-type Pokémon, she had just the ticket to keeping Zeraora at bay. She was snapped out of her thoughts by Honey grabbing her by the shoulders.
"Klara, I want you and the rest of the students to catch the first Flying Taxi home, now!" she cried, "If Zeraora's gonna be here sooner than we hoped, then I don't want any of you in his sights. I wouldn't put it past him to use the students as leverage to get to my husband! I won't have any of you being put it risk!"
"You don't have to tell me twice!" Klara exclaimed, "I'll get going right away!"
She darted out of the dojo and pretended to run off towards the Flying Taxi station. Instead, she ran further into the island to prepare her ambush for Zeraora. Of course, there was no telling where he was going to arrive but she could always ask any of the Flying-type Pokémon to keep watch for her. There were plenty of those living on the island at least. Klara's heart pounded. This was going to be the most dangerous fight of her life. But it would be worth it if it meant the plan would work after all. For once, she was going to be doing something worthwhile with her life.
"Do the right thing for once Klara…and that's what you're gonna do!" she declared to herself.
She carried on through the Soothing Wetlands towards the Forest of Focus. Klara knew the best way to keep Zeraora at bay would be to ambush him in any of the island's caves. Even when he inevitably defeated her, she could always have her Pokémon seal said cave to trap him for a while. At least that would buy some time. Mustard and Honey would be furious with her for disobeying orders and running into danger like this, but at least it was for a good cause…
Meanwhile, Sapphire and Iron Fist had reached the top floor. Sapphire had given Iron Fist another Full Restore to bring him up to full health. She imagined Mustard would've wanted to battle Iron Fist at his best to truly get a taste of his power. The elderly trainer was standing on the marked arena floor now, his face unchanged as if he'd expected Sapphire would get here. Unlike the previous four floors, the top floor had some differences to it. Two huge orange lanterns hung from chains connected to the ceiling, a large scroll with golden Japanese characters hung on the back wall and a gym mat with some blue and red cushions lay across the floor just beneath the scroll. Sapphire imagined the scroll must be what Iron Fist needed to read in order to evolve once he won this fight. After winning against the four trainers in this tower, Sapphire wondered how things would've been if she'd entered the Tower of Waters. No doubt it would've been the same, only with four trainers using Water Pokémon instead of Dark-types. She also imagined it must be the easier tower to conquer as simply teaching Kubfu Thunder Punch would be all anyone needed to win whereas this tower at least had one Dark-type Pokémon that wasn't weak to Fighting types. She put aside those thoughts as she faced her master.
"And so you're here." Mustard congratulated, "I had no doubts at all you'd succeed in getting through my elite students and reaching the top floor. I hope they weren't too easy for you."
"Oh that third floor especially gave us a battle to worry about!" Sapphire exclaimed, "It wasn't easy but it wasn't too hard either. Iron Fist really battled his heart out on all four floors."
"And I'm more ready than ever to become an Urshifu!" Iron Fist cried, punching the air excitedly.
"I can see that you are, little Kubfu." Mustard said brightly, "But you must defeat me first. And I warn you…I'm not like my students. You'll see first-hand why I'm Galar's longest running Champion!"
He threw off his hat and jacket and Sapphire found herself being blown away as Mustard jumped into the air, performed a triple-flip and landed perfectly on his feet in a combat ready stance that suggested he was about to challenge Sapphire to a karate match than a Pokémon battle! With the jacket gone, Sapphire could see that Mustard was surprisingly fit for his age. He no longer stood hunched over and she could see the muscles in his exposed arms and make out a broad chest, thick and well-toned for somebody who was old enough to be her grandfather. Underneath the jacket he'd discarded, he wore a golden vest with the trademark sword and shield logo of a Galarian Champion and he had black armbands around his wrists, one with a blue ribbon and one with a red ribbon. With his hat removed, Sapphire also saw he had a grey zig-zagged ponytail with half of it dyed red protruding from the top of his head and his long eyebrows now stood up, making it look as if he had wings on either side of his head. It was clear that Mustard's feeble old man look was all an act and she was truly seeing the real Mustard in action, a true martial arts master who didn't let his age slow him down at all.
"Bet you didn't think I was as spry as I am at my current age?" he purred impishly, "Anyone who dares to mess with me often makes that mistake and quickly comes to regret it."
"No kidding!" Sapphire gasped, "I'd probably say you look fitter now than most people do in their twenties!"
"That's what a lot of discipline and dedication to your training will do for you." Mustard declared, "But enough about me. Your final battle is about to begin! Let us see how your Kubfu fares compared to my own!"
He threw his Pokéball and brought out a second Kubfu. It looked completely identical to Iron Fist, only its stance suggested this was a more disciplined and serious Pokémon compared to Iron Fist. Sapphire could see why this was the final match. What better way to test a Kubfu's power than have it battle against another of its own kind? She took her position in the arena while Iron Fist bent his knees and spread his feet apart to balance his centre of gravity perfectly for an action stance to ready himself for battle. This was it: the final battle and the battle that would determine if he was worthy of becoming an Urshifu! They wouldn't hold back, and neither would Mustard and his Kubfu.
"At least we have an answer to Fighting types thanks to our training this morning!" Sapphire declared, "Iron Fist, start off with Aerial Ace!"
Iron Fist obeyed instantly. His arm glowed white as he ran towards Kubfu and he raised it up for a scything attack. But Mustard had expected that kind of move. He had after all watched Iron Fist perform it for the first time against Bloom earlier.
"You use Aerial Ace as well!" he commanded, scything the air with his hand.
Like Gym Leader Bea, he too had a habit of throwing punches or kicks when calling his Pokémon's attack. He viewed it as the best way to truly be in sync with his Pokémon by making the same moves they did. Kubfu leapt towards Iron Fist and the two bear cubs struck each other, their arms slamming against each other. It seemed that Kubfu's Aerial Ace was a little stronger than Iron Fist's as the duo knocked each other back with Kubfu landing perfectly while Iron Fist landed on the floor and stumbled back a little before he regained himself. Sapphire wasn't surprised at this as naturally, Mustard would have the stronger Kubfu as she'd only had yesterday afternoon and this morning to train Iron Fist. While they may use the same attacks, Kubfu would overpower Iron Fist more easily so she'd have to fight smarter if she was to win this battle. She ordered Iron Fist to use Aerial Ace again and Mustard commanded Kubfu to do the same thing. But this time, Sapphire ordered Iron Fist to dodge Kubfu's attack before landing his own. Just as the two Kubfus came in close to hit each other with Aerial Ace again, Iron Fist weaved to one side and waited for Kubfu's attack to pass over him before lashing out with his Aerial Ace. Kubfu winced as it was scythed across the chest by the attack. Mustard watched as Kubfu fell down onto the floor and Iron Fist landed perfectly on his feet, looking very pleased with himself for landing such a decisive hit.
"Ha, ha! Looks like Klara's teachings are already paying off!" he chortled, "That was an excellent use of a dodge to leave my Pokémon open for an attack!"
"I'd call it lucky more than anything." Sapphire admitted, "Given we only learned it this morning, there was no telling we'd pull it off as successfully as we just did now!"
"In my experience, I've learned that luck is sometimes the ultimate weapon in winning battles." Mustard concurred, "But for any opponent, their luck won't always last. Kubfu, use Focus Energy!" he commanded.
Kubfu stood still for a moment and closed its eyes, tensing its body up and focusing as much as it could while its body glowed red for a moment. Sapphire gulped. That was going to be bad for her and Iron Fist. Now Kubfu had a higher chance of landing a critical hit whenever it attacked! Mustard was clearly aiming to finish this battle as quickly as possible before she could take the victory. He'd seen enough of Sapphire in action to know what she was capable of and that the best way to win was to finish the fight quickly. Well just let him try! She hadn't come this far to lose just because her opponent had an increased critical hit ratio!
"Use Aerial Ace again while it's still focusing!" Sapphire commanded.
Iron Fist sprinted towards Kubfu, his arm raised and ready to strike while his opponent was still in the middle of its Focus Energy. Mustard knew he was in an impossible situation. He couldn't interrupt his Pokémon's Focus Energy or else it wouldn't take effect and he'd have to waste another turn using it again. He could only let Kubfu take the hit as Iron Fist hit it again. Luckily, Kubfu had just finished seconds before Iron Fist landed his attack so its focus hadn't been interrupted. Kubfu shook off the damage from Aerial Ace and struck back by using Aerial Ace itself. It sprung forward and sliced across Iron Fist's face with its paw. Iron Fist had no time to dodge as he was hit and he fell down onto his side, wincing from the pain. It hadn't been a critical hit this time but thanks to Focus Energy, Sapphire knew that any of Kubfu's next attacks could easily land one. This battle couldn't be allowed to prolong!
She was tempted to order another Aerial Ace from Iron Fist but she decided against it. No, don't be too predictable. Don't use the same moves over and over. Mustard will only catch on and find ways around it. It'd be better to keep him on his toes and vary her commands a bit. Instead, she told Iron Fist to use Brick Break. She smiled with satisfaction at the brief moment of surprise that flickered across her master's face as Iron Fist used a different attack. The Fighting-type Pokémon raised his arm and swiped down in a karate-chop, aiming for Kubfu's head. In order to save himself, Mustard ordered Kubfu to use Brick Break as well to block the attack. Both Kubfus hit each other once again with their attacks, both evenly matched one again. Sapphire tried again but Kubfu was only able to block again as Mustard countered with another command to use Brick Break. Then the Dojo Master gave a command that made the hairs on the back of Sapphire's neck stand up.
"Now use Zen Headbutt!" he cried.
So Kubfus were able to learn Zen Headbutt! She wished she'd know that herself so she could've tried teaching Iron Fist that move. It would've been a stronger counter for Fighting types than Aerial Ace at least. Iron Fist held up his arms in a cross shape in a vain attempt to protect himself but it was useless. There was no defending himself from a Psychic attack. Iron Fist grunted as Kubfu slammed head first into him, the psychic energy radiating from its cranium sapping away from of his energy. Iron Fist landed on his back and he held up an arm to shield his face while shivering in worry. Not only had it been a super-effective hit, but Zen Headbutt had made him flinch as well so he was wide open to another attack! Sapphire watched with worry as Kubfu came in with another Zen Headbutt. It hit the stunned Iron Fist again and threw him backwards with the power of its attack. To make matters worse, Kubfu had managed to land a critical hit this time so the damage was even greater. Iron Fist hit the floor, bounced into the air and spiralled around twice before hitting the floor again and skidding to a halt. He lay on his stomach and groaned in pain. He was close to fainting, his health down dangerously low from the power of Kubfu's Zen Headbutts. He strained as he pushed himself up on his paws and knees. Sapphire could see it was becoming a challenge just to get up again. Could Iron Fist go on or was it all over?
"Come on Iron Fist! Please get up!" she begged, "You must get up! We can't afford to lose this match!"
Even Mustard was watching nervously, hoping that it wasn't over for Iron Fist. If so, then his Armour Warrior may not be ready for Zeraora after all. A few tense seconds passed until finally, Iron Fist stepped back up. He looked weak and in need of a break but he wasn't showing any signs of giving up. He clenched his fists and growled in determination. Sapphire and Mustard both stared in amazement as the weakened Kubfu had slowly but surely climbed back into the fight.
"Ungh…it'll take more…than that to bring me down!" Iron Fist grunted.
"Awesome! You're back on your feet!" Sapphire exclaimed happily, "I thought it was all over for a minute!"
"You said optimism got you…this far." Iron Fist said with a smile, "And I'm…optimistic that we can still win this fight!"
"Excellent!" Sapphire cried, delighted he'd remembered her words from when they were outside the tower earlier, "Now use Iron Head!"
Iron Fist lowered his head and charged towards Kubfu. At the same time, Mustard ordered Kubfu to use Zen Headbutt. It was like watching a pair of Triceratops charging into each other with both Kubfus quite literally using their heads in this case. The steel coated head and the psychic coated head both connected with each other and the resulting clash of the two head-butts knocked both Iron Fist and Kubfu backwards. The two Pokémon cried out as they were flung away. Iron Fist grunted as he landed on his back and Kubfu cried out as it landed on its stomach. Out of the two head butts, it seemed Iron Fist had won the clash for his attack had caused Kubfu to flinch while Iron Fist was still OK to fight. Kubfu cowered in fright, leaving itself wide open for another attack. Seizing the perfect time to finish this quickly and explosively, Sapphire ordered Iron Fist to use Close Combat. Iron Fist ran quickly towards Kubfu as red energy built up around him and he unleashed it all in a flurry of punches and kicks that almost knocked Kubfu right out of his skin. Mustard stared in amazement at the raw power Iron Fist displayed with that attack. Clever of Sapphire to teach him one of the strongest Fighting attacks a Pokémon could learn! Iron Fist threw one last punch and sent Kubfu hurling backwards at its master's feet. It came to a stop and lay still, its eyes becoming swirls to signify that it was down and out. Iron Fist panted. He was worn out, too tired to even celebrate his victory. But deep down, he was screaming internally with joy. Mustard took a moment to take this in before he threw his head back and laughed. It was clear that this was a man that took losing in stride and didn't mind it much.
"And so the Armour Warrior clears the Tower of Darkness!" he cried jovially, "What a sensational performance from both of you! Such strength and determination to win against all odds…I think you may be one of my best students ever, Sapphire!" he complimented.
"Oh please sir, I'm not THAT amazing, surely…" Sapphire said bashfully, "I'm sure there were plenty others as strong as me, if not more so."
"Not so, Sapphire." Mustard insisted, "Only a handful of students have ever cleared any of the two towers on their first try, and none have ever cleared them in the time it's taken you to beat all five floors today. And none have certainly pulled off an impressive U-turn like that! If anyone deserved to be the Armour Warrior for this term, it was definitely you Sapphire."
Sapphire just blushed, unsure how to take all this praise. She just bent down and picked her exhausted but victorious Kubfu up. Iron Fist smiled weakly at her.
"Well…we won." he said simply.
"Looks like optimism won out again, my friend." Sapphire said softly, "You were great out there, Iron Fist. I couldn't be prouder of you."
"Aww…thank you Sapphire." Iron Fist said appreciatively.
He reached up so he could nuzzle his trainer's cheek with his nose. Sapphire giggled as his nose tickled her cheek. She then walked up to Mustard, who stepped aside to let her and Iron Fist see the Scroll of Darkness.
"As you've cleared the tower, here is your prize." he explained, "Just let Iron Fist read the scroll and he'll evolve."
"Is it really as easy as that?" Sapphire asked curiously, "How does reading this thing evolve him?"
Mustard nodded as if Sapphire had asked an excellent question.
"The truth is, no one really knows." he admitted, "It seems to be one of those strange mysteries of life that no one can explain. Many speculate the scroll itself has power beyond our understanding and only Kubfus are able to unlock it as only they can understand the text presented on it."
"And it works the same way in the Tower of Waters too, no doubt." Sapphire deduced, "OK…if you're ready Iron Fist, I'll just let you read this thing and see what you think."
She held Iron Fist up to the scroll as he was still too weak to stand on his own accord. The bear cub studied the scroll closely. While it made no sense to Sapphire, he could understand it completely. He felt nothing at first but as he read the last line, it happened. His body was suddenly bathed in white light and Sapphire jumped, nearly dropping him in surprise.
"Whoa! I think it's happening! I'm evolving!" Iron Fist cried incredulously.
"That scroll really must have some kind of power if just reading it can really do that!" Sapphire gasped.
She carefully put Iron Fist down to let him evolve. Both she and Mustard watched as the small kung-fu bear Pokémon began to grow in size and change in shape. He now stood before them no longer a Kubfu, but a powerful Urshifu. He threw his head back and let out a mighty roar that made the window panes shudder and Sapphire and Mustard felt it rumble through their stomachs. That single roar was already a sign of the raw power that this Pokémon contained.
As an Urshifu, Iron Fist was much bigger and more muscular than before with bulging biceps and leg muscles as thick as steel ropes. He had yellow claws for striking and three yellow claws on each foot. His muzzle was yellow as well. His fur was dark grey with some black and white across his chest, stomach and shoulders and he had long strands of black fur that hung down over and behind him almost like a traditional martial arts belt. The bandana like fur on the back of his head was much longer and swept upwards and he had large fury spikes on his legs that swept upwards too. He looked like a cross between a bear and a martial arts master, a true physical depiction of raw strength and a peak physical condition. Iron Fist admired himself with awe.
"Unbelievable…I'm so big now and I feel like a totally new mon!" he cried, "Wow…I bet I could punch holes through mountains with his new body! Oooooh just wait until I get my hands on Zeraora! He'll feel my punches now!"
"You look incredible!" Sapphire exclaimed, "Wow, Urshifus are some of the coolest Pokémon I've ever seen!"
"You're not the first to be truly amazed by Urshifu's appearance." Mustard said, endeared by Sapphire's excitement, "Congratulations to you on passing the trial and evolving Iron Fist. Now we are ready to face Zeraora when he returns to the island."
"I certainly feel as such!" Sapphire cried, "I only hope Hyde can finish that Prison Ball before he gets here so we can seal him away forever."
Unfortunately for them, that wasn't going to be the case as Zeraora was going to get there sooner than they'd hoped. As they two were talking at this very minute, the electric feline was on Wailord's back and minutes away from the Isle of Armour. He could even see the island coming into view as it crept over the horizon towards him. He was minutes away from home…and minutes away from claiming his revenge…
Pokemon evolved: Iron Fist the Kubfu, now Iron Fist the Single Strike Style Urshifu
*Translation: That was incredible!
The Tower of Darkness has been cleared and Iron Fist is now a mighty Urshifu! It seems Sapphire's ready for Zeraora at last, but it looks like Klara might have the first shot for she's going to try fighting the Legendary Pokemon herself. Will she succeed? Find out next time as we witness "Klara vs. Zeraora"...
Trivia: The move sets of the trainer Pokemon you fight in the two towers are...pretty shit to put it bluntly so I gave all of them much better move sets to give Sapphire and Iron Fist more of a challenge in passing the Tower of Darkness. Something like this shouldn't look too easy after all. Also Mustard's Kubfu only knows three moves in the game, Focus Energy, Brick Break and Aerial Ace. It knowing Zen Headbutt as well was once again to give Iron Fist more of a challenge.
Oh and this probably won't surprise you, but Student 4 is meant to be Luz Noceda from The Owl House as a Pokemon Trainer. I just thought that'd be a fun cameo. ^^