Naruto: Johto Journeys

by KitsuneDragon

Naruto is a young trainer who wishes to become a Pokemon Master. With his trusty Cyndaquil by his side can he overcome the challenges he will face and make his dream a reality? Pairing: NarutoxHinata and SasukexSakura.

44. Chapter 44:The Elite Four Pt 1

Naruto: Johto Journeys

Chapter 44: The Elite Four Pt. 1

"Pokemon" Normal speech

'Pokemon' Normal thoughts

"Pokemon" Pokemon that can talk

"Pokemon" Flashbacks

"Pokemon" Pokedex speech

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and I don't own Pokemon. I do however, own this laptop and this story and NONE OF YOU CAN HAVE IT!

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Pokemon League, Indigo Plateau

Pidgeot landed on the ground before being sucked back into its Poke Ball. Naruto and Typhlosion looked up at the daunting image of the face of the Pokemon League. The massive building structure was by far the largest and most marvelous out of any of the other buildings within the city that was the Indigo Plateau. With the light of the sun peeking over the tip of the building, the Pokemon League cast a massive shadow over the area where Naruto and Typhlosion stood.

The doors before him slid open as he and Typhlosion took their steps forward. Naruto paused and the Volcano Pokemon looked up at its trainer with a confused and mildly worried expression.

"Ty?"

Naruto shivered a bit as the seemingly tense atmosphere made it a bit hard for him to breathe. During the majority of his week off before he would set out to go to the Indigo Plateau to take on the Elite Four, Naruto had been studying up on his opponents and used whatever resources he had at his disposal to give him an edge, which included exploiting his friends, girlfriend and father for said information.

Of course, a few expected this from the young blonde and so they made sure to only tell him only a little more than the minimum amount. Hinata did tell him a little more knowledge on Hyuga strategies and what he should expect from her cousin, however Tenten turned him down outright when he asked for her help. Lee claimed it was most unyouthful of Naruto to ask for his help on learning about Neji and Gai, and so effectively declined to help as well...though Naruto could have sworn he heard Tenten telling him what to say on the other end of the Pokegear line. Now as for Kakashi and Izuna, well Minato himself said that he had no one around to help him earn his victories when he became Champion. Kushina did help him train by having him fight against the Legendary Birds on an almost daily basis, but that was it. Naruto was a bit disappointed when even his own mother, the person who wanted him to succeed more than anyone, had agreed with Minato on that. Any further attempt to persuade his parents and friends ended at that point.

So here he was, going into the most difficult set of battles he would ever face at this point of his life with only an average amount of information he had on the Elite Four and Izuna Uchiha.

He breathed deeply before slapping the sides of his face. "Swallow the fear, crush the anxiety, leave the anticipation." He muttered to himself before his eyes snapped open. "Alright, let's go."

"Typhlo!" The Volcano Pokemon's neck flames burst forth in support of its trainer's words, and with that, they entered. A large tunnel lit by the fluorescent lights above their heads was what they had to go through as they made their way to the first room. As they stepped into the brightly lit room, Naruto and Typhlosion's eyes widened, barely aware of the doors they stepped through shutting behind them.

The room they were in was massive, far bigger than any Pokemon Gym battlefield. Massive silver arches connected by black steel beams formed the walls on the left and right of the chamber. Light purple tiles lined the catwalk that Naruto and Typhlosion walked upon, even covering the rest of the floor. In the centre of the battlefield area was a Poke Ball shaped area much like what was seen in the Gyms, one half being dark purple and the other half being blue. Naruto's half was the dark purple one. Behind the battlefield was a small ramp that led up to the massive double doors that would obviously lead to the next member of the Elite Four should Naruto conquer whoever he was supposed to face in this current room. However, what caught the blonde trainer's eyes the most were the floating holographic, gray cubes. The cubes of varying sizes hovered through the air, vanishing from view every now and then before being replaced by others of their kind.

"Welcome, challenger!" Naruto and Typhlosion snapped their eyes in the direction of the voice as soon as they stepped onto the battlefield. Naruto's eyes widened in shock when two individuals stepped out from seemingly nowhere and onto the battlefield.

"Hiashi-san?" Naruto asked, but then realized that the older man standing before him was not the Saffron City gym leader. "No, wait...Hizashi-san. Wow, you guys really are identical twins."

"A pleasure to meet your acquaintance as well, Uzumaki-san." Hizashi chuckled at the blonde. "As you are aware, I am Hizashi Hyuga and while I am to act as supervisor to my son, I am also the official referee for all Elite Four challenge matches." Naruto looked to Hizashi's left when said younger Hyuga twin gestured to the person standing next to him.

Dressed in traditional Hyuga-like robes, the young man, no older than fifteen years old, wore a white shirt with loose sleeves, closed on the right shoulder, with a fastener running down the right part of the chest, matching pants, with a dark navy grey apron tied around his waist and black shoes. With long brown hair that was tied into a small ponytail at the end that reminded Naruto of his girlfriend's father, and the trademark pale, seemingly pupil-less eyes that looked at him, Naruto knew then and there that the person standing before him was the prodigy of the Hyuga and the youngest Elite Four member, Neji Hyuga.

"Welcome to the Pokemon League! Allow me to introduce myself, I am Neji Hyuga. Trained by my father, the former Psychic-type Pokemon Master and Elite Four member, Hizashi Hyuga, I have trained to make my Psychic-type Pokemon the most powerful. I now hold both titles as I face you, and I will keep getting better so that I may crush all those who dare to challenge me! Losing is not an option, for victory is the way of the Hyuga clan!" Neji's eyes then narrowed. "Naruto Uzumaki..."

Naruto gulped at the snarl Neji had when he spoke his name. "...as my newest challenger and the son of our previous Champion, Minato Namikaze, you have my respect. But as my cousin's alleged significant other, it is my duty to be disproving of you and see if you are worthy in my eyes. Hiashi-sama may approve of you to an extent, but I will be harder to impress."

"Why do you all hate me?" Naruto whimpered comically, anime tears streaking down his face.

"Familial duty, as I just said." Neji then twitched his arm and a Poke Ball fell from his sleeve and into his hands. Hizashi then took his place on the side of the battlefield and looked between the two trainers before raising his arms high into the air.

"This match will be between Neji Hyuga of the Elite Four and Naruto Uzumaki of New Bark Town! Neji-san is to use five Pokemon while Naruto-san is able to use a total amount of six Pokemon! No healing items are allowed during the course of the match! Should the challenger emerge victorious, I will heal his Pokemon using the portable healing machine device that I have on my person in order to be properly prepared for the succeeding match! Should you lose, Naruto-san, I will still heal your Pokemon, but you will then be forced to leave the premises! Understood?!"

The two trainers nodded. "Now let us begin!"

Naruto nodded and took out his own Poke Ball and tossed it into the air. "Ampharos, I choose you!"

"Xatu, show this brat what you're made of!"

As the Light Pokemon appeared onto the battlefield, so did Neji's own Xatu. Naruto's serious and determined gaze glanced over the battlefield, his eyes shifting between both Pokemon, something that Neji noted. 'So he is aware of the gravity of the situation that is to be standing before the Elite Four, and the look in his eyes shows he running through every possible battle simulation he can think of. Seems those gazes were not just for show during the Silver Conference.'

(Insert Music: Pokemon ORAS Version- Elite Four Battle Theme)

"Xatu, use Aerial Ace!"

"XA!" The Psychic/Flying-type took off as it spread its wings. Naruto's and Ampharos's eyes were wide at the pace at which Xatu had already run through the loop-de-loop needed to build up the speed to perform the swift Flying-type attack.

"Ampharos, Iron Tail!" Naruto hastily yelled.

"AMPH!" The Light Pokemon's tail shone with silver light before it spun its body around to build up the necessary momentum.

"Psychic!" Neji exclaimed. Naruto watched with fascination when his opponent's Pokemon's eyes didn't glow with the trademark electric blue light, but instead they were lost in a sea of white, as if the irises and pupils had just vanished from the eyes. Ampharos grunted in pain when its tail was diverted from the path it intended to take, slamming into the battlefield and cracking the floor. The telekinetic shockwave then followed afterwards, nailing Ampharos in the stomach and sending it through the air.

"Thunderbolt!" Naruto ordered. Ampharos quickly flipped to right itself in midair before quickly launching forth a swift bolt of golden electricity from its body. However, the attack was caught in Xatu's telekinetic hold once more and sent right back at it as soon as it touched the ground. "Use Iron Tail and stick your tail into the ground!"

Ampharos nodded as its tail shone with silver light once more. With a cry of effort, Ampharos slammed its tail through the floor so it was embedded in the ground just as its Thunderbolt attack came towards it. The electricity surged through the Electric-type Pokemon's body, but it failed to do any damage as the electricity flowed through its body and into the ground.

"Interesting. Using Iron Tail and embedding it into the ground so that it would funnel into the ground like a lightning rod, keeping his Pokemon from being harmed by its own attack." Neji nodded in approval. "But let's see how you handle what follow next! Xatu, Ominous Wind!"

"XATU!" The robotic tone of the Mystic Pokemon echoed through the air as its flapped its wings. A powerful gust of violet wind that howled like the screams of a banshee rushed towards Ampharos and the Light Pokemon gritted its teeth as it was hit by the Ghost-type attack, a few small slice wounds forming across its arms in the process.

"Ampharos, use Thunderbolt!"

"Redirect it with Psychic!"

"Use Thunderbolt again!"

Ampharos launched forth it Thunderbolt attack, the bolt zooming towards Xatu at a breakneck pace, however, the attack was veered off-course and sent back towards its user as Xatu used its Psychic attack. Ampharos then fired off another Thunderbolt attack at the attack that was now owned by Xatu. The two Electric-type attacks slammed against one another, the smell of ozone seeping into the air before a massive explosion occurred. A smoke cloud obscured the combatants from each other.

"Disperse the smoke with Ominous Wind and then follow up with Aerial Ace!" Neji ordered. Flapping its wings, the smoke cloud was dispersed and the violent, violet wind storm rushed across the battlefield with Xatu following right after as it used Aerial Ace. However, both Elite Four member and Pokemon were surprised when they saw Ampharos was not present.

"Where..."

"Thunderbolt attack!" From its area in the air, Ampharos launched a golden arc of electricity that tore through the battlefield towards the unsuspecting Xatu's back. The surprised Neji could only watch as the Electric-type move was almost upon its target, but then Neji smirked. He hadn't uttered a word since both he was too caught off-guard to make an order to dodge, but Naruto's and Ampharos's eyes widened when Xatu ducked under the attack. The explosion occurred as the Light Pokemon's attack was avoided.

"Aerial Ace!"

"Iron Tail!"

The two Pokemon clashed in midair and Ampharos dropped down onto the ground as Xatu circled around for another strike.

'How did he dodge that Thunderbolt?' Naruto thought, his blue eyes looking at the Mystic Pokemon. 'It moved far too fast to be able to get a reaction, and after riding the blast wave from the explosion accompanied by Xatu's Ominous Wind attack I made sure Ampharos got into the air and behind Xatu, unnoticed! A sixth sense? No, not even the Pokemon's sixth sense for battle could make it react the way Xatu could. It moved quick enough, as if knowing the Thunderbolt was already coming, as if it could see behind it, as if...'

"So this is what Hina-chan told me about. This is the fabled Byakugan." Naruto said.

"I assumed Hinata-sama had told you about it. The glowing blue eyes commonly seen in using a Psychic-type attack is what is shown to signify the use of the Pokemon's brain to a high enough level to perform telekinesis. However, actual Psychic-type Pokemon are capable of calling upon these forces in a much more practical and advanced manner by combining the sixth sense of battle with the aspect of the brain that governs vision, utilizing a literal Mind's Eye if you will. This grants the Psychic-type actual 360 degree vision that is shown by the eyes glowing white instead of blue, a higher level of functioning and power that only the Hyuga clan have managed to perform and is what has made the clan so fearsome."

Naruto and Neji looked at Xatu's glowing white eyes as the Mystic Pokemon used a Psychic attack at Ampharos only for the Light Pokemon to dodge it and use a Thunderbolt, the Electric-type attack being avoided. "The skill labelled as the Byakugan." Neji said with a confident smirk. "People have tried to replicate this, but failed."

"Strong as it may be, everything has a weakness."

"Did Hinata-sama tell you of a weakness?" Neji asked, his eyes narrowing with well hidden fury.

"No." He replied honestly. "Hina-chan wouldn't tell me as she said that she was far too dedicated to her family to disclose any sort of information other than the Byakugan skill's existence, but I know there's a weakness in that Byakugan of yours."

"There is no weakness. If Hinata-sama told you there was no weakness then there is none."

"That's what you'd like to believe." Naruto stated. "But I'll show you now that even an all seeing eye won't win you the fight! Ampharos, Thunderbolt!" The golden burst of electricity rocketed through the air, but Xatu was quick to dodge it before striking back with Psychic.

"Flip and slam on the ground with Iron Tail to lower the damage then use Signal Beam!" Ampharos did as it was told, a crater forming when its glowing tail slammed onto the ground to disperse the force going through its body. Ampharos turned on its hell in one fluid motion as rainbow coloured energy pooled within the orb on its forehead.

"AMPHA!" The Light Pokemon fired the beam and Xatu's eyes widened as it was struck in the chest by the Bug-type attack.

"Signal Beam again, aim between the eyes!"

"AMPHAROS!" The crimson orb on Ampharos's forehead shone with rainbow coloured light before a beam of energy was launched from the orb. The attack speared through the smoke cloud and nailed Xatu directly between the eyes causing the dual type to groan in pain. The Mystic Pokemon shook its head before glaring at Ampharos with its glowing white eyes.

"A Bug-type move has little effect on Xatu!" Neji shouted. "Xatu, Psychic attack!" Xatu's eyes shone with white light as it prepared to use the attack, but the Elite Four member's eyes widened with shock when it saw its Pokemon suddenly fly around aimlessly and slam into the ground, hurting itself.

"Thunderbolt!" Ampharos complied and unleashed the Electric-type move.

"XAAAAAAAATUUUUU!" The Mystic Pokemon screeched in pain as ten thousand volts of electricity flooded it body before it lay still on the ground, smoking from the electrical burns it suffered.

"This round is over." Hizashi stated. "The winners are Naruto and Ampharos."

"How?" Neji asked as he recalled his Xatu.

"Signal Beam may not be very effective against Xatu, but Signal Beam can still cause confusion." Naruto tapped himself between the eyes. "The brain is affected differently in the presence of certain colours. Red for anger, orange for hunger, blue for sadness, the flashes of colour from Signal Beam would affect the brain and cause confusion. Hitting Xatu directly between the eyes served as a better catalyst for this condition and not even your Byakugan can see through a status condition."

"That's...quite an impressive strategy to utilize, Naruto."

"Thanks, Neji." Naruto smirked at being praised by the youngest Elite Four member. "Now send out your next Pokemon."

"You may be worthy of my cousin yet." Neji tossed his second Poke Ball into the air. "Jynx, I choose you!"

"Thunderbolt attack, Ampharos!" Naruto ordered.

"Redirect and follow up with Psychic!"

"Slide under it and then use Iron Tail!"

"Hit back with Ice Punch!"

The Thunderbolt attack used by Ampharos was quickly redirected as Jynx's eyes were lost from view in the white light they were emitting. The golden arc of electricity raced towards Ampharos, but the Light Pokemon was quick to drop down onto its knees and leaned its body backwards so that its upper half was parallel to the ground. A powerful explosion occurred behind it and so the Electric-type utilized the blast wave to increase its momentum upon pushing itself back onto its feet and into the air. The rear appendage then took on a bright silver appearance, and Ampharos performed a series of front flips as it fell down upon its opponent while Jynx reared back its fist, said fist glowing with ice blue energy.

"AMPH!"

"JYNX!"

Both Pokemon cried out as they unleashed their attacks and a resounding clang echoed across the battlefield accompanied by a powerful shockwave.

"Now use Signal Beam, aim between the eyes!"

"Not this time!" Neji snarled. "Use your free hand and attack with Ice Punch!"

"Adjust your body and block and strike back with Iron Tail!"

"Psychic attack and then follow up with Blizzard!"

"Use Thunder!"

As the multicoloured energy charged within the red orb, Jynx's free fist tightened as it glowed with ice blue energy, frost trailing behind it as it was used.

"Jynx!" The Human Shape Pokemon cried out as it attacked. Ampharos quickly adjusted its body and twisted, knocking aside the current arm it was holding back before slapping aside Jynx's second Ice Punch attack. A satisfying snap was heard and Jynx gritted its teeth in pain as its wrist was effectively broken from the Steel-type attack and its large lips were burst apart as the Iron Tail continued on to strike the Ice/Psychic-type in the face, blood flying through the air in the process.

The Human Shape Pokemon skidded backwards from the super effective move, but its dark eyes narrowed before they glowed with white light. Thrusting out its arms, the burst of telekinetic energy raged across the battlefield and struck Ampharos in the stomach causing the Electric-type to release a gasp of pain as the wind was driven from its lungs.

Jynx then inhaled deeply before exhaling forcefully. "JYYYYYYNX!" A burst of powerful, freezing winds and ice rushed forth from its open mouth. Ampharos quickly managed to regain some form of bearings before it called upon a large amount of electricity within its body.

"AMPHAROOOOOOOOS!" The Light Pokemon unleashed a massive, wicked thunderbolt that streaked through the air. Both high level moves streaked past one another and nailed their respective targets head on. Jynx and Ampharos howled with pain before they were both placed out of commission, Jynx fainting from the massive amounts of voltage running through its system, smoking and sporting electrical burns over its body, while Ampharos was now effectively frozen in a block of ice with a pained expression forever etched onto its face.

"This match is a draw as both Jynx and Ampharos are unable to battle."

Both trainers recalled their Pokemon before taking out their next Pokemon.

"Heracross, I choose you!"

"Exeggutor, go!"

The two Pokemon slammed down on the battlefield as they emerged from their Great Ball and Poke Ball respectively.

"Herac!" The Bug/Fighting-type bounced around the battlefield, delivering a few test punches in the air as it was ready to battle.

"Exeggutor." The walking tree of a Pokemon lumbered across the battlefield as it squared off against its opponent.

"Psychic attack Exeggutor!"

"Dodge it by leaping into the air and then use Aerial Ace!"

"Block it with Protect and then use Leaf Storm!"

"Strike down those leaves using Night Slash and Close Combat!"

Exeggutor's eyes shone with white light as it called upon its telekinetic abilities before sending forth a burst of psychic energy. A visible wave of energy streaked across the battlefield, but Heracross was quick to unleashed it wings as it leaped into the air, effectively avoiding the attack. Heracross then performed a loop-de-loop and at the apex of the aerial maneuver, vanished from view upon picking up speed.

Appearing to the left the Coconut Pokemon, Heracross prepared to drive its horn against Exeggutor's body, but a powerful dome-shaped shield made of emerald energy burst forth from Exeggutor's form, protecting it from the attack. Heracross was pushed backwards, skidding across the battlefield just as Exeggutor reared its body back.

"Exeggutor!" The Coconut Pokemon began the unleash a barrage of razor sharp leaves at its foe.

"Heracrooooooss!" The Single Horn Pokemon flexed its arms as its claws were wreathed in a dark aura that flickered like the flames of a Charmander's tail. In an amazing show of physical prowess and fighting skill, Heracross delivered swift and accurate strikes to the multitude of leaves from the Leaf Storm attack. Shreds of foliage wafted to the ground as Neji could only stare in awe at the sight he was now gazing upon. When the Leaf Storm ended, there was now a carpet of shredded leaves on the battlefield in front of Heracross's feet.

"Now Heracross, use Aerial Ace!" Heracross took off a breakneck speed towards it opponent, a visible stream of air resistance flowing behind its body.

"Protect!" The emerald barrier emerged once more, deflecting the super effective attack from reaching its target.

"Backflip when you're pushed back and then use Night Slash!" Heracross nodded and went into a backflip, landing deftly on its feet just as the Protect barrier dropped. However, as soon as it did, Heracross pushed off with enough force to crack the ground beneath its feet, a stream of dark energy trailing behind it as it utilized the Dark-type attack.

"HERA!"

"EXEGGUTOR!" The Coconut Pokemon cried out in pain as a powerful uppercut dug into its trunk-like body, drawing a fair amount of blood.

"Now send it flying and knock it back down! Finish it with Megahorn!" Naruto commanded. Driving its claws even further into Exeggutor's body, Heracross utilized its momentum to push Exeggutor skyward, the Coconut Pokemon's eyes shut tight with pain upon being sent flying in such a manner. With its now blood stained claws free, Heracross flew after its opponent, the long horn on its head shining with a bright, pale green light.

"HERACROSS!" Heracross performed a rapid front flip to build up momentum before crashing the super effective Bug-type move down upon Exeggutor's body. The Coconut Pokemon crashed down on the ground with terrific force, cracking the ground before Heracross fell directly after it and slammed its Megahorn down with enough force to cause the ground to quake and shudder before it caved inwards, forming a sizable crater and a small dust cloud.

"Exeggutor is unable to battle. Heracross is the victor." Hizashi announced, gesturing to the blonde teenager.

Neji moved swiftly, recalling Exeggutor before sending out his fourth Pokemon.

"Slowbro, go!"

The evolution of Slowpoke stood on Neji's side of the battlefield. Heracross jumped around, wings buzzing in anticipation to fight while Slowbro stood there with its blank look on its face.

"Use Psychic attack!" Neji ordered.

"Sloooooooow!" Slowbro's eyes glowed with white light before unleashing a burst of telekinetic energy at the Bug/Fighting-type.

"Dodge it and attack with Aerial Ace!"

"Block it with Protect!"

Heracross quickly jumped into the air, the land where it stood being crushed into a small crater. The blue exoskeleton covered Pokemon then went into a loop-de-loop before vanishing from view at the apex of its aerial maneuver. As quickly as it vanished though, it reappeared right behind Slowbro. However, the Hermit Crab Pokemon's Byakugan skill allowed it quickly react and activate the green defensive barrier that was Protect. Heracross gritted its teeth as it was repelled by the barrier, but quickly flipped and pushed off as soon as the barrier dropped.

"Night Slash attack!"

"Protect again!"

The green energy barrier appeared once more just as Heracross's claws, wrapped in a flickering aura of dark energy, tore through the air towards the Hermit Crab Pokemon. Sparks of friction flew as the Single Horn Pokemon unleashed a barrage of Night Slash attacks upon the barrier, but to no avail. The Protect barrier dropped as not even an absolute defense could last forever.

"Now Heracross!" Naruto shouted.

"HERACROSS!" The Bug/Fighting-type delivered a crushing right hook across Slowbro's face making the Hermit Crab Pokemon release a drawled out cry of pain. A second Night Slash attack followed soon after that left a bleeding gash across its chest before a third and final Night Slash attack came in the form of an uppercut.

"Catch it in your mouth, Slowbro!"

"What?!" Naruto's eyes widened when Slowbro took the force of the uppercut Night Slash attack, the super effective attack still dealing damage since blood was flowing from the hit that served to break a few of Slowbro's teeth. However, the Hermit Crab Pokemon's eyes narrowed as it bit down on Heracross's arm, making the Single Horn Pokemon flinch in pain.

"Flamethrower." Neji ordered coldly. Heracross and Naruto's eyes widened.

"Heracross, Night Slash!" The Dark-type attack scored a deadly super effective hit across the face of the Hermit Crab Pokemon, but it served only to make Slowbro bite down that much harder as the bright orange glow of fire emerged from Slowbro's jaws before bursting forth in the form of a tongue of white hot yellow-orange flames.

"HERAAAAACROOOOS!" The Single Horn Pokemon howled in agony as its entire left arm was completely burned by the super effective attack. Heracross stumbled backwards, clutching its blackened limb, and Slowbro spun its body around with great speed, catching Heracross off-guard as it was nailed in the face by the Shellder shell covered tail.

"HERAC!" The Single Horn Pokemon skidded backwards from the force of the strike before being caught in the telekinetic grip of the Water/Psychic-type Pokemon.

"Psychic attack!" Neji ordered.

"Slowbro!" The Hermit Crab Pokemon obeyed and unleashed a burst of telekinetic energy that slammed into Heracross's body.

"Hang tough, Heracross!" Naruto encouraged his Pokemon. "Use Aerial Ace to get in close and then attack with Night Slash!"

"Dodge it with the Byakugan, and then pushed it back with Psychic!"

"Let me tell you another weakness of your little all seeing eye tactic!" Naruto shouted. "You may be able to see things from all angles, but it doesn't help you if you're not fast enough to stop yourself from being hit! Heracross, flip in the air and use Night Slash!"

"Block it with Protect and then follow up with Flamethrower!"

"Land on the ground and duck beneath the Flamethrower!"

Heracross released its wings from their exoskeleton covered confines before taking off in a burst of speed, vanishing from view as it performed the loop-de-loop needed to build up the necessary momentum for the Flying-type attack. Slowbro's Byakugan ability served to aid it as it avoided the swift barrage of Night Slash attacks, gritting its teeth pain however when a few managed to nick its body, leaving behind streaks of red as its flesh was damaged and blood flowed. Slowbro quickly unleashed a pulse of telekinetic energy that struck Heracross's body, but the Single Horn Pokemon flipped in the air, barely even touching the ground as it regained its bearings and pushed off. The Night Slash attack rocketed towards Slowbro only to be blocked by the dome-shaped energy barrier, its emerald glow casting its light across the battlefield.

Heracross was pushed backwards through the air upon being repulsed.

"Sloooowbroooooo!" The Hermit Crab Pokemon unleashed the massive tongue of yellow-orange flames at its opponent, but the Single Horn Pokemon had landed on the ground and ducked underneath the Fire-type attack.

"Now use Aerial Ace to get in close once more and attack with Megahorn!" Heracross nodded and quickly pushed off just as Slowbro's Flamethrower came to an end. Performing a swift loop-de-loop, Heracross built up the necessary momentum before vanishing from view and then reappearing directly in front of Slowbro, its horn already glowing with pale green light.

"HERACROSS!" The Bug/Fighting-type cried out as it crashed its horn against Slowbro's stomach with terrific force. Slowbro's eyes widened as the wind was driven from its lungs and it coughed up a glob of blood. Slowbro tumbled through the air before crashing down on the ground at Neji's feet, unconscious.

"Slowbro is unable to battle. The winner is Heracross." Neji nodded as he recalled Slowbro and took out his fifth and final Poke Ball.

"You've done quite well to reach this far, Naruto. Now let's see how stand up against my strongest Pokemon!" Neji tossed the capturing device into the air. White light swirled and twisted as it burst forth from its confines before solidifying into the form of a Xatu, however, Naruto noticed that this Xatu was significantly stronger than the first Xatu. The fact that a powerful wind was generated by it unfurling its wings adhered to that ideology.

"Heracross, Night Slash attack!"

"Xatu, Quick Attack!" Naruto's and Heracross's eyes widened as Xatu appeared to blur out of existence, streaking across the battlefield at an incredibly high speed before slamming against Heracross with terrific force. The Bug/Fighting-type Pokemon was sent flying through the air only be caught in Heracross's telekinetic grip. The Mystic Pokemon's glowing white eyes shone brighter before it slammed Heracross down on the ground. A crack echoed through the air as Heracross's arm was bent at an angle it shouldn't have been bent at, the arm broken along with part of the exoskeleton covering. Heracross was then flung across the battlefield, slamming into the walls, the ceiling and then crushed into the ground with enough force to form a crater in the battlefield.

"And Heracross is unable to battle." Hizashi said. "Xatu is the winner."

Naruto gritted his teeth as he watched the powerful Xatu touch down on the ground, its eyes still shining brightly in preparation for further battle.

'It's far faster and stronger than the other Pokemon he's used. With Ampharos and Heracross gone, I lost both Pokemon that have definitive type advantages over it. It's fast and strong. Quagsire's Blizzard could do some massive damage and its defense could make it a battle of attrition, but that Psychic attack is dangerous. Pidgeot may be able to fight on even terms when it comes to speed, and could avoid that Psychic attack and perform counters in the same time frame.'

Naruto nodded to himself as he pulled out his Poke Ball. "Quagsire, I choose you!" The Mud Fish Pokemon appeared on the battlefield, its unblinking and blank gaze staring into Xatu's own.

"Quaaaaag." The Water/Ground-type drawled out its battle cry.

"Xatu use Psychic!"

"Dodge it with Surf and then follow up with Hydro Pump!" Water exploded out of Quagsire's body before the water began to rise and expand, becoming the massive tidal wave that was the Surf attack. The Psychic attack struck the massive wave just as it began to arc, forming its crest and was about to cast its shadow over the Mystic Pokemon. The tidal wave appeared to shatter like glass as the telekinetic shockwave ripped through it, but as Quagsire fell, it inhaled deeply, water pooling within its mouth causing its cheeks to bulge.

"QUAAAAGSIRE!" The Mud Fish Pokemon released the powerful blast of pressurized water.

"Avoid it with Quick Attack and then slam Quagsire into the ground with Psychic!"

"Use Earthquake to lower the force of the impact!"

Xatu quickly moved out of the way, a blur of colour marking its movement from how fast it moved. The Hydro Pump attack was avoided and Xatu zipped through the air at a breakneck speed before slamming full force against Quagsire's midair form. The durable Pokemon grunted from the strike before it was slammed down by Xatu's Psychic attack. However, the Mud Fish Pokemon quickly flipped in midair and slammed its tail down on the ground and the battlefield rumbled and shook as the Earthquake attack served to reduce the amount of damage that the durable dual type would have been delivered.

"Shadow Ball attack!" Neji ordered.

"XATU!" Dark energy swirled to life and formed a compact blob of pure shadow. Xatu then fired the Ghost-type attack and Quagsire was struck, sending it skidding backwards.

"Use Hydro Pump!"

"Use multiple Shadow Balls, Xatu!" Neji countered. Xatu's eyes shone brightly as numerous orbs of pure shadow swirled to life before being fired. Quagsire's Hydro Pump arced through the air as it shifted its head to take them down, but the Shadow Ball attacks were too numerous and many of them managed to avoid Quagsire's offensive-defensive tactic.

"Duck!" Naruto ordered. Quagsire nodded and dropped down low to the ground, avoiding the fast paced projectiles. However, Xatu's white eyes shone brighter than before as the Shadow Ball orbs suddenly froze in midair before reversing their course and heading straight back towards Quagsire.

"Use Surf and flash freeze it with Blizzard to create an ice wall!" Quagsire called upon the massive tidal wave that was Surf before backflipping off the crest of the wave and breathed out a powerful gust of freezing winds and ice. The Surf attack instantly froze over and became a dense ice wall that cracked and broke apart as the Shadow Balls made explosive impacts with it. The remainder of the Shadow Ball attacks then bombarded Quagsire and the Water/Ground-type was sent stumbling around the battlefield as it was forced to take each and every explosive impact from the Shadow Balls.

"Quagsire, are you okay?" Naruto asked in concern.

Quagsire gritted its teeth as it slowly climbed back to its feet, covered in dust and a few bruises from the Ghost-type attack. With a stiff nod, Quagsire stood strong. "QUAG!"

"Use Quick Attack and then hit it with Confuse Ray once you're close enough!" Neji ordered. Naruto and Quagsire shifted their eyes every which way as Xatu's rapidly moving form zipped through the air, its form flickering into view every now and then, drawing closer and closer to Quagsire. Naruto then noticed that Xatu was moving in a zig-zag pattern, the most basic and effective pattern of movement to get close and catch the opponent off-guard. Xatu's eyes then glowed with an evil red light as it reached in front of Quagsire.

'Gotcha.' Naruto smirked. "Use Hydro Pump on the ground to create a splash to blind it!"

"What?!" Neji's shock was paramount as Quagsire's mouth bulged before it expelled the voluminous amount of water from its jaws. The blast of pressurized water struck the ground between Xatu and Quagsire with tremendous force and generated a powerful splash that both blinded and soaked the Mystic Pokemon. The resulting shockwave from the powerful Water-type attack had Xatu flying back.

"XATU!" The Mystic Pokemon screeched in surprise as the water got into its eyes, its wings acting to remove the liquid from its eyes. Byakugan or no, water still stung painfully when it got into your eyes.

"Now Quagsire, Surf attack!"

"Quagsire!" The powerful tidal wave reared up to its massive height of over thirty feet before arching and crashing down upon the Psychic/Flying-type Pokemon with tremendous force, cracking the bones in its wings. Xatu was washed across the battlefield, cold and wet from the powerful Water-type attack, its feathers seemingly glued together from the waters that soaked it.

"Now Quagsire, end it! Blizzard attack, full force!" Naruto pointed at Xatu.

"QUAAAAAAAG!" The Mud Fish Pokemon unleashed a powerful Blizzard attack that rushed across the battlefield. The water that coated the field was frozen over in an instant before the super effective attack slammed into Xatu with devastating force. The water that covered its feathered form was instantly brought to temperatures below zero and Xatu, with a pained expression on its face, had fainted, trapped in a prison of ice.

"I...I was defeated?" Neji muttered as he fell to his knees. "But...the Byakugan...my Psychic-types..."

"They are incredibly strong, but its obvious that you rely far too much on it. The amount of weaknesses that are brought about through relying on merely vision in a battle is what brought made you sort of easy to defeat." Naruto said as he recalled Quagsire. "Your Pokemon may be able to see a lot of things with those fancy psychic eyes of theirs, but you're blind to the fact that it doesn't make you invincible."

"That is correct." Hizashi said. "I have been trying to get you to realize that, Neji, but you would not heed my words when I told you that even though you mastered the Byakugan skill, you are not invincible. Your Pokemon are still mortal. Once Naruto-san's matches have concluded I will make sure to have you train yourself to overcome the faults of the Byakugan. Understood?"

"Yes, Otou-sama." Neji said before climbing back to his feet. "I...have been defeated. Naruto-san, you are a strong trainer and you are worthy of moving on to the second stage, but know that I am the weakest of the Elite Four and facing me has only given you a taste of what we have to offer. Go on to the next room to take part in your second challenge. He is far stronger than I am." Naruto nodded in understanding, and he and Typhlosion trekked across the stage to the massive doors at the other end of the room, said doors opening loudly.

"Also, Naruto-san." Naruto and Typhlosion paused as they glanced back at the brown haired Hyuga. "You seem like a good man. I approve of my cousin's choice in you."

Naruto smirked. "Thanks."

"This way, Naruto-san." Hizashi said as he led Naruto through the caverns of the Pokemon League towards the next battle room. Hizashi then took out the portable healing machine, the same machine that Naruto had seen his father use during the ROOT War before they went off to Cerulean Cave an catch Mewtwo.

"Geez, you guys put a lot of effort into interior decorating don't you?" The son of a Champion muttered as he looked around the room. The walls were lined with the arches of silver, supported by the black steel beams. However, this battlefield was similar to a forested area, trees and grass included. The ceiling was masked by the leaves of the trees with the lights from above filtering through to act as spotlights on the areas where Naruto and Hizashi now stood, as well as the area where the next Elite Four member was now standing.

"Kukukuku, so the little Namikaze brat has made it to the Elite Four." Stepping out from the shadows stood possibly one of the most creepy looking men Naruto had ever laid his eyes on. His skin was as pale as moonlight which made a stark contrast with his long, raven black hair. His eyes were outlined with purple makeup of somekind which served to accentuate his golden, snake-like eyes. Dressed in a dark purple shirt, black pants and purple Arbok-skin shoes, the Poison-type Master that was Orochimaru was extremely well dressed. A pair of laboratory gloves were worn over his hands and a pair of goggles were resting on his head. A white lab coat was worn over his suit and served to make the man look more like a scientist than a Pokemon trainer.

"Uzumaki." Naruto stated evenly. "Minato Namikaze is my Tou-chan, but Kushina Uzumaki is one who raised me. I will forever hold my name as Uzumaki and will not claim the name of Namikaze for as long as I live."

"Kukuku, quite an interesting child you are indeed." Orochimaru laughed creepily, looking over Naruto as if he were a Politoed on the dissection table. "Most children would take the fact that their father was a former Pokemon Champion with pride, and wear the name like a badge of honour."

"Well I'm not most children."

"Indeed you aren't, and your Typhlosion is quite an impressive specimen." Typhlosion growled at the golden eyed man, its neck flames flickering in and out of existence.

Hizashi cleared his throat to get the attention of both combatants as he took his place on edge of the battlefield near the mid-way line. "This is a five-on-six match up between Orochimaru of the Elite Four and the challenge Naruto Uzumaki! Orochimaru-san, are you prepared for your battle with Naruto-san?!"

Orochimaru pulled back on his gloves, relishing in the sound of the elastic snap echoing through his battle chambers. "Oh, I'm ready Hizashi-kun. Now then Naruto-kun...let's see if you're just as good as your father."

"I'm not as good as him." Naruto stated as he and Orochmaru pulled out their Poke Balls. Blue eyes stared into gold with determination. "I'm better." And with that the battle began as they both hurled the capturing devices skyward.

(Insert Music: Pokemon ORAS Version- Elite Four Battle Theme)

"Quagsire, I choose you!"

"Venomoth, go."

Venomoth the Poison Moth Pokemon. A Bug/Poison-type Pokemon and the evolved form of Venonat. When it attacks, it flaps its large wings violently to scatter its poisonous powder all around.

Venomoth flapped its wings as its massive black eyes stared at Quagsire. "Veno Venomoth."

"Quaaaaaagsire."

"Alright, Quagsire use Surf to ground it and then follow up with Earthquake!" Quagsire called upon the waters that generated the massive tidal wave that was Surf. The waters surged forth, but Venomoth's eyes glowed with a bright electric blue light.

"Psychic attack."

"Venomoth!" The Poison Moth Pokemon unleashed a powerful burst of telekinetic force that shattered the Surf attack before it latched onto Quagsire as it was falling to ground zero before performing the task itself. The grassy battlefield was now bearing a Quagsire shaped imprint.

"Now use Poisonpowder." Orochimaru ordered. As Quagsire struggled to rise to its feet, the Bug/Poison-type flew overhead, sprinkling the deep violet powder over Quagsire's form.

"Freeze the powder with Blizzard and then attack with Hydro Pump!" Orochimaru's eyes brightened with fascination as he saw every single tiny particle of poison was now encased in ice and made it seem as if there was miniature hail storm going on above Quagsire. The Mud Fish Pokemon's cheeks then bulged as a voluminous amount of water pooled within its mouth before it was unleashed.

"Counter it with Psychic and then use Poisonpowder!"

"Fight back with Hydro Pump!"

"Do a barrel roll to dodge and then swoop in to use Poison Fang beneath the armpit!"

"Surf attack!"

The Hydro Pump attack was veered off-course as Venomoth's eyes shone with bright blue light, signifying the use of its telekinetic abilities. The Hydro Pump attack was avoided and the Poison Moth Pokemon flapped its wings to release a storm of violet powder at the Mud Fish Pokemon. However, the poison was scattered every which way as Quagsire's Hydro Pump speared through it. Venomoth quickly performed a barrel roll, but winced as the burst of pressurized water managed to clip the edge of its left wing. However, it did not deter its path as the evolved form of Venonat flew forth and bared its manibles, poison dripping from them in a menacing manner.

Quagsire spun on its heels in an attempt to slap away the flying insect with its thick, heavy tail, but Venomoth twirled and dove beneath the strike before latching onto Quagsire's armpit, biting down on the soft area of flesh and injecting the poison of its attack into Quagsire's system. Water then exploded forth and Venomoth was carried into the air as it and Quagsire were now riding the massive tidal wave that was Surf. The massive Water-type attack arched before crashing down on the ground with terrific force, both Pokemon being carried by the raging waters, but only Venomoth was dealt damage. Grounded and in soaking wet, Naruto took his chance.

"Finish it with Earthquake!"

"QUAG!" The Water/Ground-type slammed its heavy tail down on the ground and seismic waves rushed forth from the point of impact. The powerful Ground-type attack dealt a significant amount of damage as Venomoth cried out in pain when the attack rattled its body down to its internal systems. The super effective attack did its job and Venomoth was placed out of commission.

"Venomoth is unable to battle!" Hizashi announced. "Quagsire is the winner!"

"Quite the durable Pokemon you have there, Naruto-kun." Orochimaru chuckled as he returned Venomoth to its ball. "But now let's see how you deal with more precise and accurate strikes. Ariados, show him what I mean and use Poison Jab." The second Poke Ball was unleashed and the orange and black Bug/Poison-type emerged before spitting out its silk and swinging through the air. Picking up momentum with each swing through the trees, Quagsire was forced to spin around from its position in the centre of the battlefield to keep track of its new foe.

Naruto gritted his teeth as he looked for an opening to try and stop Ariados from getting to his Pokemon from an angle that would be difficult to defend from. However, his Uzumaki personality ended up being his downfall in the act of being patient.

"EARTHQUAKE!" He ordered.

"QUAGSIRE!" The Mud Fish Pokemon raised its thick and heavy tail before slamming it down. The rear appendage produced powerful seismic shockwaves that made the entirety of the battlefield shake and quake, even making leaves from the canopy layer of the trees to flutter down to the ground. Ariados's swinging momentum was disrupted, and so Ariados took that as its signal to stop swinging around.

Ariados then used what little momentum it had left to shift its body and carry itself towards Quagsire. The Mud Fish Pokemon's eyes widened as it ducked beneath the oncoming Long Leg Pokemon. Ariados skidded across the grass, tearing small trenches in the ground from the friction before it skuttled back towards Quagsire with the tips of its forelegs glowing with bright violet light.

"Upper arm." Two swift Poison Jab strikes nailed Quagsire with terrific force and had the Mud Fish Pokemon wailing in pain. Orochimaru grinned widely as he chuckled, his Pokemon's eyes brightening with the same light of amusement and fascination at seeing the poisoned dual type stumbling backwards, grunting in pain as its arms were now sporting visible spots of purple where it was struck.

"Bicep." A second pair of Poison Jab strikes nailed Quagsire in the bicep region of its stubby arms. "Wrist region, palmar aspect."

"Quag!"

"Chest."

"Sire!"

"Diaphragm."

"Quag."

Naruto's eyes widened as he watched his Pokemon being bombarded with swift Poison Jab attacks to the various regions of the body that Orochimaru called out. As a researcher and scientist, Orochimaru utilized what he knew about Pokemon biology to hit them where it hurts, and to watch his opponents struggle as they were effectively beaten down into mere lumps of flesh. Quagsire's arms were both flooded with poison, leaving them just hanging there like limp noodles. The Mud Fish Pokemon's breathing then became wheezy and ragged from the blows to the chest and diaphragm, sweat pouring from its brow as it then fought to avoid the follow up strikes.

"Dodge them Quagsire!"

"Kukukuku, that's right Naruto-kun. Dodge, dodge and dodge some more. That's all you can do until the poison from Venomoth and Ariados begins to make Quagsire's body shut down, though to continue fighting and moving at such a degree, you would think this level of poison would have taken down a Quagsire at this point." Orochimaru licked his lips with a tongue that Naruto was sure was not supposed to be that long. "How your Pokemon fascinate me, Naruto-kun. Kukukukuku."

Quagsire stepped back when a Poison Jab strike came at it. It then sidestepped the follow up strike before bending its head down low, using its dense skull to push back against the thrid strike.

"Alright, hang tough Quagsire! Push back and use Hydro Pump!" Powering through the pain, Quagsire then spun on its heels and slapped Ariados with its heavy tail before firing off a Hydro Pump. Ariados was sent rocketing through the air before slamming into one of the trees of the battlefield with enough force to crack the bark. A snap echoed throughout the battlefield as one of Ariados's legs was broken.

"Now Earthquake!"

"Quagsire!" Quagsire crashed its heavy tail downwards and the rear appendage's impact generated a series of powerful seismic waves that racked Ariados's body.

"Ariados!" The Long Leg Pokemon cried out in pain before it rolled over, its legs curling inwards as it fainted from the super effective strike.

"Way to go, Quagsire!" Naruto cheered for his Pokemon, but his eyes widened when Quagsire panted in exertion as its beady eyes aimed to stay open. The Mud Fish Pokemon's vision began to blur and it stumbled around the battlefield in a poison induced delerium until it fell forward, unconscious. "Oh no. Quagsire!"

"Both Quagsire and Ariados are unable to battle. This round is a draw." Hizashi announced to both combatants. "Please select your next Pokemon."

Both trainers sent out their next Pokemon.

"PIDGEOOO!" Naruto's Pidgeot spread its wings and generated powerful gale force winds that scattered the leaves and sliced off the tips of the grass on the ground.

"MUUUUUUK!" The Sludge Pokemon drawled out, its poisonous body releasing a small bit of steam as it ate away at the land beneath it due to the toxic nature of its own body. Muk was now sitting in a small circle of dirt as the grass and leaves were instantly killed.

Muk the Sludge Pokemon. A Poison-type Pokemon and the evolved form of Grimer. Its body is made of a powerful poison. Touching it accidentally will cause a fever that requires bed rest.

"Alright Pidgeot, we'll strike swift and hard! Muk's body is poisonous and since Poison-types have no effect on Steel-types, attack with Steel Wing!" Pidgeot nodded and spread its wings wide, the feathers taking on a shine like silver as its bone structure became as dense as steel. Pidgeot's eyes narrowed as it stared at Muk. The Sludge Pokemon then blinked and its eyes widened along with Orochimaru's when Pidegot suddenly appeared to disappear from their field of vision.

"PIDGEO!" The Bird Pokemon screeched as a streak of silver suddenly marked its path and the Steel Wing attack slammed agaisnt Muk's body.

"Muuuuuk!" The Poison-type groaned in pain as the attack crashed against its body.

"Use Sludge Bomb!" Ororchimaru ordered.

"MUK!" The Sludge Pokemon released a bombardment of gunks of poisonous sludge at its opponent.

"Avoid them by flying skyward with Fly!" Pidgeot performed a powerful flap of its wings, shooting high into the air with its Fly move to effectively avoid the Sludge Bomb attack. The Bird Pokemon then arched through the air, dive bombing its opponent and then striking it full force. Muk grunted and then fired off another Sludge Bomb.

"Dodge it and counter with Aerial Ace!" Pidgeot quickly flapped its wings, moving as fast as it could as it began racing through a series of aerial acrobatics as Muk fired off Sludge Bomb after Sludge Bomb at it. Pidgeot barrel rolled, dove, climbed, twirled and twisted to avoid the strikes with its amazing show of speed and aerial maneuverings before it performed a climbing action, flying high into the air and going into a loop-de-loop. Pidgeot then vanished from view upon reaching the apex of the aerial maneuver and reappeared to Muk's left.

"Pidgeoooo!"

"Use Minimize and then Sludge Bomb!"

"Pidgeo?!" The Bird Pokemon was caught off-guard by the sudden increase in evasiveness as Muk's form suddenly shrank in size as Pidgeot streaked through the air, the Flying-type attack being completely avoided. Muk then turned on its foe just as the Bird Pokemon had circled back for another strike. Muk then fired off a round of poisonous sludge at the Normal/Flying-type Pokemon. However, both Orochimaru and Muk were caught off-guard this time as the Sludge Bomb attack literally went through Pidgeot's form.

"PIDGEOOO!" The Bird Pokemon cried out as it re-materialized into existence, striking Muk head on with an Aerial Ace attack.

"Fascinating. His Pidgeot has achieved the level of speed necessary to produce an after-image. Not many Pokemon can perform such a feat."

"Thanks." Naruto smirked. "Now prepare to be further impressed when I take down your Muk! Pidgeot use Steel Wing!" Muk grunted in pain and Pidgeot quickly pushed back away from the Poison-type Pokemon to go into a loop-de-loop, building up a large amount of momentum as its wings lit up like shining silver.

The Steel-type attack bore down upon the Sludge Pokemon and Orochimaru then chuckled. "Seems you have also inherited your father's cockiness when he feels that he is about to win. Muk, defend with Acid Armour and then grab onto Pidgeot." Muk's viscous appearance suddenly glossed over as it took on a bright shine, as if it had solidified.

"Pidgeot no!" However, the call had come too late and Pidgeot slammed against Muk's body with terrific force. The Steel-type move had done a great deal of dmaage, but the Acid Armour defended against the attack and Pidgeot released a cry of pain as the Acid Armour acted true to its name. Acid burned at Pidgeot's body, eating away at feathers to reveal pink flesh that was now dripping with blood as the acid ate away at the flesh as well.

"Sludge Bomb attack."

"Muuuuuk!" The Sludge Pokemon gurgled before unleashing the powerful Poison-type attack at close range, releasing Pidgeot and causing the Bird Pokemon to slam into the ground with enough force to crack the battlefield.

"PIDGEOOOO!" The Bird Pokemon screeched in agony, writhing on the floor as the acid and poison burned at its body.

"Now end it with Gunk Shot." Muk opened its massive mouth and a massive glob of poison and sludge formed.

"MUK!" The powerful Poison-type attack was launched and a massive explosion of poison occurred, the ground caving inwards from the force of the close range attack's impact. When the dust settled, Pidgeot was laying in a puddle of poison, blood and feathers.

"Pidgeot is unable to battle." Hizashi raised his arm and pointed to Orochimaru. "The winners are Orochimaru-san and Muk."

"You did a good job, Pidgeot." Naruto said as his Pokemon was sucked back into its ball. Once the string of red energy had vanished into the ball, he put it away before withdrawing his third Pokemon. "Heracross, let's make it quick!"

"HERACROSS!" The Bug/Fighting-type emerged forth from the Great Ball in a burst of blue and white light.

"Alright, use Aerial Ace!"

"Avoid it with Minimize and then use Sludge Bomb!" Orochimaru ordered. Muk's form quickly shrunk down in size as it avoided the swift Flying-type attack before quickly reverting back to its normal size.

"Bounce off the bark of the trees to avoid the Sludge Bomb attack!"

"MUK!"

"Heracross!" The Single Horn Pokemon quickly flipped in the air and slammed its feet against the bark of the tree it landed on before pushing off, leaping to the side and pushing off another tree. The bark cracked from the force at which Heracross was leaping around the battlefield's foliage, but the trees were quickly made to topple over onto the ground as Muk's sludge ate away at the bark and everything in between.

"Heracross, avoid the last tree as it falls and then kick it at Muk with Close Combat!"

As the latest wave of Sludge Bomb projectiles burned away at the tree Heracross leaped off of, the Bug/Fighting-type quickly spread its wings and buzzed around as the tree began to fall as the bark was eaten away by the venomous sludge. Heracross then delivered a swift series of uppercuts to send the tree up into the air using its tremendous physical strength before kicking it upwards so it could prepare for the follow up roundhouse kick.

"HERACROSS!" The Single Horn Pokemon released a cry of effort as the kick slammed against the broken tree with enough force to send it flying through the air as straight as an arrow.

"Quite a display of strength. You've raised your Heracross well, Naruto-kun, but Muk's sludge eats away at all forms of life, plants in particular." Orochimaru's words were shown to be true as the tree impaled Muk through and through, but the liquid-like Pokemon's body began to release an audible hiss as the tree was eaten away at.

"Ever heard the word distraction?" Naruto asked. "Heracross, Aerial Ace!" Orochimaru raised an eyebrow as Heracross was suddenly in Muk's field of vision, speeding through the use of Aerial Ace.

"Hera..." Heracross's horn dug into Muk's form through the use of the Flying-type attack.

"Now finish it off with Night Slash!" Heracross pushed off of Muk and then landed on the ground with barely even a sound as it was already on the move. As swift as a Quick Attack, Heracross was back in Muk's face before it reared back its arms. The ivory claws were cloaked in an aura as black as night before the powerful dual type lashed out with them.

"CROSS!" Heracross delivered a strong cross-shaped slash that ripped through Muk's form with enough force to send sludge scattering across the battlefield before sending Muk flying backwards from the force of the attack. It was a critical hit as shown by how Muk was now unconscious from the swift pair of Dark-type attacks.

"Muk is unable to battle! Heracross wins it!" Hizashi announced.

"Alright! Way to go, Heracross!"

"Herac!" The Single Horn Pokemon flexed its arms with a confident look on its face as Naruto whooped for his victory.

"Kukukuku, you are quite the adversary, Naruto-kun. You may prove yourself right soon enough if you say you are better than your father." Orochimaru recalled Muk before taking out his fourth Poke Ball. "Crobat, attack with Cross Poison." Immediately upon coming out of the ball, the four winged Bat Pokemon shot forth with blinding speed.

"Hera?!"

"Fast." Naruto muttered as Crobat was already in Heracross's face. With its two upper wings were then drawn back, wrapped in a deep violet glow. With a high pitched screech of a battle cry, Crobat unleashed the Cross Poison attack and a pair of dark violet slash marks were now visible across Heracross's chest. Heracross grunted it pain as it was sent skidding backwards.

"Hang tough, Heracross! Strike back with Night Slash!" Heracross's eyes snapped open with a determined gaze. Its tenacity became paramount as it stamped its foot backwards to keep itself from going any further before pushing off, its wings buzzing in order to give it a burst of speed. Heracross's claws became cloaked in a dark aura before it slammed against Crobat's body. The smaller Pokemon coughed up a bit of blood as the attack caused some internal damage.

"Now slam into it with Aerial Ace!"

"Block with Steel Wing and then attack with Cross Poison. Aim for the joints and creases of the exoskeleton!"

"Fight back with Close Combat, Heracross!"

Orochimaru's order was carried out just as Heracross raced through the loop-de-loop in order to build up the necessary momentum. Heracross slammed into Crobat's wings as the appendages were shining like silver, crossed in front of its body. The clang from the impact resounded throughout the battlefield, but Heracross pushed it backwards and the two Pokemon were lost from view when they went into the darkness of the trees.

The sounds of combat echoed throughout the battlefield. Naruto gritted his teeth as he tried to see through the darkness, but Orochimaru was merely chuckling.

"With eyes like Crobat's, the darkness is its domain. Your Heracross..." His golden eyes brightened with glee. "...is finished." As he said that, the sounds of branches snapping echoed throughout the battlefield and Heracross was sent flying back through the air by a powerful crescent of air, an Air Cutter attack striking home. However, what made Naruto's eyes widen was just how cut up his Pokemon was. Blood flowed from the sliced areas of exoskeleton, the joints more precisely.

"Now Crobat, seeing as how you've attacked the weakened areas of Heracross's exoskeleton...bring it down with Poison Fang!" Crobat took off towards Heracross.

"Attack with Close Combat!"

"Too slow." Orochimaru berated his opponent as Crobat swooped around the barrage of punches and kicks that Heracross was performing. The poison that now flowed through Heracross's system was beginning to act, slowing the reaction time and speed of the Single Horn Pokemon. Crobat dove beneath a straight jab before biting down with poison coated fangs at the elbow joint. Heracross gritted its teeth in pain and lashed out with a punch to the face. The attack freed its arm, but Crobat was quick to strike back and bite down on the offending arm's elbow. Heracross's arms fell limply to its side, but it did not go down as it struck with a knee to the face only for Crobat to block the blow with Steel Wing and then bite on the joint. Heracross slipped as the leg became compromised and another Poison Fang attack to the only active limb brought it down to the ground.

"Now finish it with Air Cutter!" Orochimaru ordered.

"Block with Megahorn!" But it was too late. Crobat reared back its wings before unleashing a powerful crescent of pressurized air. The super effective attack struck home and Heracross was sent flying through the air like a ragdoll before crashing down on the battlefield at Naruto's feet.

"Heracross!" Naruto's eyes widened in alarm as he looked at his fallen Pokemon.

"Heracross is unable to battle. Crobat is the victor." Hizashi said. "Naruto-san, please release your fourth Pokemon."

"You put up a good fight, buddy." Naruto recalled Heracross, the Single Horn Pokemon vanishing into it as red energy. "Ampharos, I choose you!" The Light Pokemon emerged onto the battlefield, voltage sparking across its body as it was ready to fight.

"Crobat, use Air Cutter and then go in with Cross Poison!"

"Thunderbolt!" Naruto countered.

Crobat crossed its wings in front of its body before forcefully unfurling them. A powerful arc of pressurized air raced across the battlefield, but Ampharos quickly unleashed a powerful bolt of electricity from its body. Crobat dodged the attack with its immense speed, a small explosion forming behind it, before its wings glowed a sickly violet colour.

"BAT!" The Bat Pokemon screeched as it unleashed its attack. Ampharos raised its arms as a feeble defense, gritting its teeth as the Poison-type move struck.

"Use your tail to regain your balance and then strike with Signal Beam! Aim between the eyes!" Ampharos skidded backwards, but quickly used its rear appendage to regain its balance. Rainbow coloured energy glowed from within the crimson orb on its forehead before being launched forth as a concentrated beam. The attack hit Crobat directly between the eyes causing the Bat Pokemon to flutter haphazardly through the air.

"Crobat, Steel Wing attack!"

"Block and counter with Iron Tail!"

Crobat's wings shone brightly before it rushed forth at a breakneck speed, while Ampharos ran across the battlefield, its tail shining just as brightly as Crobat's.

"BAT!"

"AMPH!"

A powerful shockwave raced across the battlefield as the two Steel-type moves clashed. Ampharos then pushed back and spun on its feet to swing its tail upwards, but Crobat's lower wings were flapped downwards to deflect the strike before it flew in closer and struck with its upper wings. Ampharos ducked underneath the attack before sidestepping the slashing motion from the lower wings before ducking and rolling beneath the Bat Pokemon, popping back to its feet in one fluid motion so that it was now in the air. Crobat was about to raise its wings to hit Ampharos, but the Pokemon's pupils suddenly dilated before it hit itself in the face with its own Steel Wing, hurting itself.

"Oh, quite the strategy. Hitting between the eyes increases the chances of Signal Beam bringing about the confusion status." Orochimaru chuckled in amusement. "Well played, Naruto-kun."

Naruto smirked at the praise, said smirk only widening when his Electric-type Pokemon performed a backflip and swung the iron hard appendage down upon Crobat's skull.

"AMPHA!" The Light Pokemon cried out as it made contact. Crobat screeched in pain as it was sent spiraling to the ground. However, as it fell, Crobat's eyes snapped open and it flapped its wings, regaining its balance. Apparently the blow to the skull had snapped it out of its confusion, but blood still flowed from the strike that marked the beginnings of what would soon be a powerful concussion.

"Air Cutter!"

"Thunderbolt!"

Ampharos's Thunderbolt attack tore through the air and easily ripped through the crescent of pressurized air that Crobat unleashed.

"Dodge it and then use Poison Fang!" Orochimaru commanded.

"Cro!" The Bat Pokemon quickly dove beneath the Thunderbolt attack, causing it to strike a defenseless tree behind it, the bark smoldering from the intense heat of the attack. Crobat then opened its maw and revealed sharp fangs dripping with violet poison.

'Wait for it...Wait for it...' Naruto thought as Crobat came in closer to Ampharos. 'Now!' "AMPHAROS, BLIND IT!"

"AMPHAROS!" The Light Pokemon's tail suddenly glowed brightly as electricity was concentrated within its tail. A bright flash blinded the Bat Pokemon causing it to screech in agony as it eyes felt as if they were on fire.

"I remembered what you said about how your Crobat's eye were suited for the darkness when it was fighting Heracross. Though Crobat may fight in the daylight, in the end, it's still suited for the darkness and so your Pokemon is now blinded. Ampharos, finish it with Thunder!"

"AMPHAROOOOOOS!" The Light Pokemon's body glowed with electricity before it unleashed a massive, wicked thunderbolt from its body. The grassy battlefield was torn asunder as the electricity ripped a trench in it before it arched through the air and crashed down on Crobat's form with explosive results. Crobat screeched in pain as over ten thousand volts flooded its body. Crobat then fell to the ground, covered in electrical burns and unconscious.

"Crobat has fainted!" Hizashi raised his arm and pointed to the Light Pokemon. "Ampharos is the winner!"

"Kukukuku, you are indeed a delight to battle young Naruto-kun." Orochimaru licked his lips with his creepily long tongue once more. "I haven't had such a fight since I fought Itachi Uchiha. Tis a shame though that you were the victor and not Sasuke-kun as I would have really liked to see how he measured up to his older brother's skills first hand." Orochimaru sighed with disappointment as he pulled out his last Poke Ball. "Such a shame."

"Yeah well, the teme's not here. I am." Naruto growled.

"Kukuku. It's what I have to settle for, but that doesn't mean I like it. The Uchiha were always far more interesting than other opponents, Izuna-kun and Itachi-kun especially." Orochimaru then tossed his Poke Ball into the air. "Manda...end this quickly."

In a flash of white light, a massive Arbok reared up, towering over Ampharos and casting quite a large shadow over it. Its hood flared as it hissed menacingly at the Light Pokemon. Ampharos sweated a bit and Naruto gulped as he could feel the power from the final Pokemon of the Elite Four member.

"Manda use Earthquake!"

"Ampharos, jump and use Thunderbolt!" The powerful Arbok that was Manda bared its fangs before raising its tail and slamming it down on the ground. Ampharos quickly jumped into the air and avoided the attack, the trees of the battlefield littering leaves all over the floor. Ampharos then unleashed a powerful bolt of electricity from its body, tearing a trench in the ground as it moved towards Manda. A powerful occurred as the Thunderbolt made contact with the Cobra Pokemon, obscuring it from view within the cloud of dust and smoke.

Ampharos landed on the ground, the battleground now filled with a deafening silence. Naruto and Ampharos looked at the smoke cloud, until Arbok flew forth from the smoke.

"Ice Fang." Orochimaru ordered.

"CHARBOK!" The Cobra Pokemon bared its fangs and they became coated in bright blue ice.

"Deflect it with Iron Tail!"

"Wrap your tail around Ampharos's body and pull it back in and use Ice Fang again!"

Manda's Fire Fang was deflected as Ampharos's tail shone like silver. The Electric-type Pokemon rotated it body to build up momentum before swinging the rear appendage with great force. Manda hissed in pain as it was struck on the side of its face, but it quickly lashed out with its tail, hitting Ampharos in the stomach, driving the wind from its lungs from the impact, before it snaked its way around the Light Pokemon's waist. Manda then pulled Ampharos in before opening its jaws, cloaking them in ice once more.

"CHARBOK!" Manda bit down on Ampharos's body, right at the crook of its neck. Ampharos cried out in pain as the icy attack was so cold it began to burn at its body.

"Now slam it down on the ground and use Earthquake." Manda raised its tail high into the air before slamming the still trapped Ampharos down on the ground harshly. The ground shook and quaked as the powerful Ground-type was used in conjunction with the tail slam and Ampharos howled in agony before it fell into the darkness of unconsciousness.

"Ampharos is unable to battle. Manda wins." The powerful Arbok hissed, flicking its tongue as it stared down at its defeated opponent with the look a superior being would give to those who weren't on its level. Naruto returned Ampharos with a click of his tongue. He glanced down at his partner Pokemon.

'With Earthquake he has a counter to Typhlosion and with Ice Fang, Dragonite could go down quickly if I'm not careful. These guys...the Elite Four...they aren't normal trainers. I can't put them on the same level as Sasuke or Ryuu or the other guys from the Silver Conference. He toyed with me when he used Venomoth and Ariados, and even then I struggled to put them down. Neji was right when he said I had only gotten a taste of what the Elite Four could do when I fought him. Neji's still a novice to the Elite Four, but Orochimaru is experienced...a whole different level.'

Naruto gulped as he made his choice. He pulled out the Poke Ball containing his number two powerhouse. "Dragonite, I choose you!"

"Oh? So even knowing Manda knows Ice Fang you still go with your Dragonite." Orochimaru smirked. "Kukuku, well then...let's see how you fare. Manda, use Gunk Shot!" Manda hissed before unleashing a powerful, large glob of poison from its jaws.

"Dragonite, dodge it and then go in with Dragon Rush!" Dragonite flew up into the air and avoided the attack, poison splattering over its former location before it took off at a high speed.

"DRAA!" The Dragon-type rushed forth, its body cloaked in an aura of bright blue that then took on the visage of a roaring serpentine dragon.

"Manda, dodge and then use Coil and Gunk Shot!" Manda quickly ducked and slithered underneath the flying form of Dragonite. Arbok's muscles then tensed as it coiled its body tightly, its body becoming more powerful before unleashing the blob of poison at the Dragon Pokemon.

"Dragonite, use your speed to outpace the Gunk Shot and push off a tree and hit it with Dragon Rush!" Dragonite nodded and quickly flapped its wings faster as the aura from Dragon Rush blazed forth around its body. It flipped in midair and planted its feet firmly against a tree before pushing off with enough force to shatter the bark. Dragonite sailed up and over the Gunk Shot attack.

"Ice Fang!" Manda bared its fangs, an ice blue glow forming around them as frost billowed from its jaws. The Poison-type Pokemon reared its head back before lashing out with the Ice-type attack, however Dragonite quickly landed on the ground, skidding on its knees to avoid the strike and get within Manda's guard.

"DRA!" The Dragon Pokemon pushed off the ground and then crashed its skull against Manda's chest. Manda's eyes widened in shock and pain as the powerful attack registered with its body, coughing up a glob of blood from the force of the strike. Manda tumbled through the air before crashing down on the ground, but the powerful Poison-type hissed as it recovered and then wound itself around a tree.

"Gunk Shot!" Manda fired forth the powerful Poison-type attack.

"Fly up and then bring the Thunder!" Naruto ordered. Dragonite flapped its wings as the glob of poison shot towards it before electricity sparked between its antennae. Dragonite roared before unleashing the wicked thunderbolt at its opponent.

"Snap the tree and use it as a shield!" Orochimaru commanded. Manda tightened its grip before the thick bark snapped and the tree came toppling down. The powerful Thunder attack crashed down upon the falling piece of foliage. The tree broke apart in two from the explosive force of the powerful Electric-type move, however, Manda had coiled its body like a spring and leaped through the splinters and smoke to reach Dragonite's position in the air.

"Attack with Dragon Rush!"

"Avoid it and slam Dragonite into the ground!" Manda nodded and as Dragonite's dragon-shaped aura cloaked form shot forth towards it, Manda twisted its body in a manner that only a serpent could managed and twisted around Dragonite's neck. Its tail then wrapped around Dragonite's torso.

"CHAAAAARBOK!" The Cobra Pokemon hissed before flipping its body to build up the necessary momentum and throw Dragonite overhead and down towards the ground. The battlefield cratered slightly from the force of the impact as Dragonite crashed down to ground zero. Manda fell down after the Dragon Pokemon, but it quickly rolled out of the way as Manda's form crashed down, causing the crater to increase in size. Manda then shot forth with great speed and bared its fangs, but Dragonite quickly spun on its heels and struck with its tail, knocking Manda aside before firing off a Thunder attack which the Cobra Pokemon easily avoided before firing off a Gunk Shot.

"Draaaa!" The Dragon Pokemon cried out in pain as the Poison-type attack struck it in the chest and sent it skidding backwards.

"Now use Ice Fang!"

"Outrage attack!" Naruto ordered.

"Use Earthquake to topple the trees and shield yourself!" Orochimaru countered.

Manda quickly shot forth with the intent to use Ice Fang, but was sent careening back through the air, slamming harshly against the grass covered battlefield as a burst of reddish violet flames were released from Dragonite's body. Dragonite roared before unleashing another pulse of draconian fire, but Manda slammed its tail on the ground and the trees near to its shook before they were uprooted by the force of the seismic waves, falling over and acting as makeshift barriers for the Cobra Pokemon.

The Outrage attacks crashed against the tree shield violently, easily breaking through them one at a time. Manda quickly slithered around the barriers as the final Outrage attack shattered what remained of its wooden defenses and by then Dragonite was panting and delirious, confused due to the fatigue.

"Dragonite, attack with Thunder!"

"Dodge and then hit it with Gunk Shot!" Manda zipped around the bolt of electricity that Dragonite fired, but then Dragonite slammed into the ground forcefully, hurting itself due to the confusion. This was Manda's opening to strike as it fired off the powerful Poison-type attack that had the Dragon-type Pokemon gritting its teeth in pain.

"Now bind it." Orochimaru stated. Manda slithered around Dragonite's legs, torso, arms and tail, using the entirety of its lengthy body to bind the Dragon Pokemon. Manda then wrapped itself around Dragonite's neck, proceeding to suffocate the Dragon Pokemon in its grip.

"Dragonite, no!" Naruto called out. "Use Thunder!"

Dragonite unleashed the powerful bolt of electricity, electrocuting the powerful Poison-type and making it hiss in pain.

"COIL!" Arbok's muscles strengthened themselves, increasing in power and durability as they served to keep themselves tightened around Dragonite's body. Naruto's eyes widened as he saw his Pokemon's face beginning to turn blue from lack of oxygen.

"Hyper Beam! Outrage! Get yourself out of there now!" Naruto's desperate calls for his Pokemon to strike back fell on deaf ears. The Dragon Pokemon tried in vain to adhere to its trainer's wishes, but its vision was beginning to blacken as blood was halted from flowing to its brain as well as the rest of its body. Feeling light headed and starved air, Dragonite's body which had been strongly trying to fight off Manda, was now reduced to weakened punches to the Cobra Pokemon's body.

"Ice Fang attack!" Orochimaru called out. Manda quickly unbound Dragonite and the Dragon Pokemon released a gasp as air flooded its lungs, only to then quickly find that feeling of relief being replaced with white hot pain as Manda's freezing cold fangs dug into its neck. Blood flowed from the puncture wounds where Manda's fangs had dug themselves, but then ice traveled along the length of its body. Dragonite then blacked out, fainting from the pain and the cold and toppled to the ground beneath Manda's massive form.

"Dragonite is unable to battle. Manda is the winner!" Hizashi said.

"Kukukuku, come now Naruto-kun...don't be down." Orochimaru chuckled as Naruto stared in shock at how viciously Orochimaru had chosen to defeat his Pokemon. "Even you must know that Pokemon were bred for battles to determine superiority. Every single muscle, every weakness, every shatterpoint in a Pokemon's body...I have studied for years underneath Sarutobi-sensei as an academic before I became a Gym Leader and then an Elite Four member. See that area where Manda bit, that is the area of Dragonite's body known as the foetal scale. When a Dragonair evolves, that area on the neck is where its first scale as a Dragonite is formed and thus serves as a weak point. Once you know where to strike, even Pokemon given titles like pseudo-legendary Pokemon are capable of being defeated. With a Champion like Izuna-kun, you can bet that I've done my fair share of research on Dragon-types."

Naruto held up Dragonite's Poke Ball as the Dragon Pokemon was returned. He looked at Manda and watched as the Pokemon's eyes stared into his own, the smug air of superiority pissing him off just as much as Orochimaru's cocky, yet probably true statements. Naruto gritted his teeth before his eyes blazed with determination fueled fires.

"TYPHLOSION, EARTHQUAKE!" Typhlosion leaped into the air from its trainer's side before rearing its arm back.

"MANDA, USE EARTHQUAKE AS WELL!" Manda raised its tail high into the air as Typhlosion slammed its fist down on the ground.

"CHARBOK!"

"TYPHLO!"

Both Pokemon crashed their assaulting limbs down on the battlefield with terrific force and the powerful Ground-type attacks generated seismic waves that felt as if they would bring the entire Pokemon League down to the ground. The two attacks cancelled each other out, vanishing as quickly as they were used.

"Flamethrower attack!"

"Dodge and use Gunk Shot!"

"Pierce through it with long range Thunderpunch and then use Flamethrower!"

Typhlosion unleashed a powerful tongue of raging yellow-orange flames towards the powerful Arbok, but Manda snaked along the ground, leaping and sliding around the Fire-type attack as Typhlosion shifted its neck to try and hit the serpentine Pokemon. Manda then coiled its body like a spring and leaped into the air before firing a large blob of venom from its jaws. Typhlosion snarled before clenching its fists tightly, electricity sparking off of them.

"Ty!" The Volcano Pokemon punched the air and a streak of lightning was launched from its first fist and caused a small explosion of lightning and venom. A second lightning bolt followed directly after and struck Manda in the chest and sent the Cobra Pokemon careening through the air before being hit with Typhlosion's follow up Flamethrower attack. Manda rocketed across the battlefield, but was quick to right itself in the air.

"Use Earthquake as soon as you hit the ground."

"Use Earthquake too, Typhlosion!"

The battlefield shook once more as the two Pokemon used the powerful Ground-type attack.

"Gunk Shot!" Arbok fired off the powerful Poison-type attack at an incredible speed and Typhlosion hissed as it was forced to merely raise its arms in order to defend itself. Its fur burned as the venom began to seep through to the flesh beneath.

"Use Gunk Shot again!"

"Match it with Flamethrower and then use Eruption!"

"Dodge it and then attack with a midair Gunk Shot!"

"Flamethrower attack!"

Manda fired off the powerful glob of violet poison only for it to be met with an explosive counterstrike in the form of Typhlosion's Flamethrower igniting the venom. As the explosion occurred, Typhlosion then raised its arms to the sky before slamming them down on the ground. The ground shook and rumbled, cracking as the bright orange glow of flames and magma seeped through. A massive tower of fire and burning rock then stretched towards the ceiling of the Pokemon League before it arched through the air, burning hot rock and magma falling towards Manda like a miniature meteor storm.

Manda then slithered across the ground, veering in and out between every single space between the storm of burning rock and lava. Craters and explosions occurred all around it, but Manda's agility and evasiveness was on a whole other level that Naruto and Typhlosion had never seen before because in the end, Eruption always managed to hit its target...but not with Manda. The remainder of Eruption caused a powerful explosion, but Manda quickly leaped through the smoke cloud and into the air before firing off multiple Gunk Shot blasts which Typhlosion met with its Flamethrower.

The small explosion was speared through by Manda's form as it bared its fangs. "Ice Fang attack!"

"Catch it and swing it into the ground before using Earthquake!"

"Use your tail to stop it and then hit it with Gunk Shot!"

"Roll out of the way and attack with Thunderpunch!"

"Use Coil to endure it and then attack with Gunk Shot!"

Manda's ice cloaked fangs bore down upon Typhlosion, but the powerful Fire-type's arms snapped up and caught Manda by either jaw, holding the Cobra Pokemon back before swinging it down into the ground with enough force to crack the grassy battleground. Typhlosion then prepared to punch the ground in order to use Earthquake, but Manda's tail lashed out and wrapped itself around the assaulting arm before pulling Typhlosion down. Manda then reared itself up to its full height, flaring its hood before firing the Gunk Shot attack. The Volcano Pokemon's eyes widened as it proceeded to roll out of the way of the attack before biting at the Arbok's tail. Manda hissed, retracting the wounded area which allowed Typhlosion to perform a catspring, kicking the Poison-type in the chest as it landed back on its feet. Typhlosion's fists then tightened as they became cloaked with golden electricity.

"TYPHLOSION!" The Volcano Pokemon roared before punching Manda in the face with its electrified fists. Manda's muscles tightened as it had used Coil to increase its defenses and then countered with Gunk Shot. Typhlosion was sent skidding backwards from the powerful Poison-type move and panted heavily as it suddenly broke out into a sweat, the poison inflicting damage upon its body. Manda hissed with a knowing look on its face, aware of its foe's poisoned state, before attacking with Ice Fang.

Typhlosion grabbed Manda by the jaws and swung it into the ground before lashing out with a Thunderpunch. However, Manda slithered around it, the ground cratering from the force of the attack. Manda then fired off a Gunk Shot which Typhlosion met with a Flamethrower attack that caused a small explosion. Typhlosion then rushed through the fires, unaffected due to its fireproof fur, and shoulder tackled the serpentine Pokemon. It then rolled on the ground, going with the momentum to then grip Manda and hurl it overhead and throw it. Manda slammed down on the ground with terrific force, but then procceded to lash out with its lengthy tail and pull Typhlosion's feet out from under it. Manda then proceeded to snake its way around Typhlosion's form, but Typhlosion's weakened state of body allowed it to call upon its Blaze ability. Its neck flames increased in size and intensity, becoming a powerful sapphire blue colour that burned at the area of Arbok's body that was near its neck.

"CHARBOK!" Manda hissed as its was forced to loosen its grip.

"Now Typhlosion, Thunderpunch!" Typhlosion then grabbed Manda and removed the Cobra Pokemon from its body before firing off a strong Thunderpunch to the face.

"TY!" The powerful right hook loosened a fang in the Cobra Pokemon's mouth and then the electricity served to effectively paralyze the Poison-type.

"NOW FLAMETHROWER ATTACK!"

"TYPHLOSIOOOOOON!" The Volcano Pokemon inhaled deeply before exhaling a powerful tongue of blue and white flames that seared the ground beneath. The powerful Flamethrower sent Manda flying through the air as it crashed against its body, sending it slamming into the ground before causing a powerful explosion of fire, dirt and grass that was accompanied by a strong shockwave.

Typhlosion panted in exertion before falling to one knee, sweating heavily as it was barely hanging on due to the poison in its system. Crimson eyes glanced up before brightening with genuine happiness as it saw the unconscious form of Manda laying in a burning crater, burned and partially blackened by the Blaze empowered attack.

"Manda is unable to battle Orochimaru-san has no more available Pokemon!" Hizashi announced. "The winners are Typhlosion and Naruto-san!"

Naruto quickly ran up to his partner Pokemon's side and looked him over. "Hang in there, Typhlosion. Hizashi-san will heal you up in a bit, but you did a great job just like everyone else. Now get in your ball take a rest."

"Typhlo." The Volcano Pokemon nodded before shutting its eyes. Naruto then held up Typhlosion's Poke Ball and the red beam of energy from the sphere's centre converted Typhlosion into its energy form, sucking it inside. The blonde then looked up as Orochimaru chuckled, recalling his own Pokemon.

"So...it appears you do have a level of promise, Naruto-kun." The Poison-type Master clapped lightly. "It seems that I will have to do a bit more research into ways to better disable your Pokemon should we meet again in a battle."

"With all due respect, Orochimaru-san...you creep me out. I don't ever want to fight you again, especially given you much of a struggle you put me through."

"I am often misunderstood due to my many years of scientific service giving me what some believe me to a skewed sense of battle since I actually strike for the weak points rather than just fighting and causing explosions. Of course, one must be forced to adapt when fighting an opponent such as yourself."

"And what kind of opponent is that?" Naruto asked as he handed his Poke Balls to Hizashi so they would be healed.

"A rather annoyingly tenacious one. I will admit, not even Itachi-kun or Izuna-kun have made such an entertaining battle with me before." Orochimaru answered. The doors behind him then opened to reveal the next passageway. "Now then, I believe it is time for you to take your leave, young Champion. But I must warn you, your next opponent is quite...eccentric."

"Huh?"

Naruto's confusion only increased when Orochimaru continued to laugh as he walked off to the side, vanishing into the darkness of his forest-ridden battle chamber. Hizashi handed Naruto his Poke Balls back after healing them. Naruto thanked him and clipped them all back onto his belt before looking up at the former Elite Four member as they began to walk through the passageway to the next battle.

"Where does he go?"

"Orochimaru-san lives in the Pokemon League and so his quarters and laboratory are all stationed within the forested area of this chamber. He spends most of his time in the underground sectors of the lab, and seeing as how he has the resources to keep the facility running, the Pokemon League Association has made no complaints towards this. Now then, we must venture onwards..." Hizashi shuddered as he and Naruto then began to walk towards the massive double doors that led to the next room. "...and prepare for the worst."

The massive doors, which looked somewhat like the doors to a dojo, slid apart and revealed the massive battlefield.

"YOSH! WHO DARES COME INTO THE DOMAIN OF THE GREAT FIGHTING-TYPE POKEMON MASTER OF THE ELITE FOUR?!" Naruto's eyes widened in shock while Hizashi merely shook his head and looked to the heavens.

"Ho-oh, why do you let these things exist?" He muttered.

Pushing up from the ground as the figure had been doing a series of pushups in the centre of the battlefield, Naruto could only stare in shock at the resemblance between the man before him and the gym leader of Cianwood City whom he had called his friend. He was dressed in a skin tight, green spandex suit, orange leg warmers and had a black belt, much like what karate masters wore, wrapped around his waist. He was extremely fit, the lines of definition of his musculature printing out through the spandex suit. His skin was lightly tanned. He had black hair in a bowl-shaped haircut, black eyes and a wide grin on his face as he looked at Naruto before performing a thumbs up, his teeth sparkling like they were bathed in teeth whitener since the day he was born.

"LET THE SPRINGTIME OF YOUTH BURN WITHIN YOU AS WE FIGHT THIS DAY, FOR I AM THE BEAUTIFUL GREEN BEAST OF JOHTO, MAITO GAI!"

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(A/N: And let's cut the chapter off right there because I think it's a good point to end it and not to mention I am rather mentally bushed from writing those two battles earlier. Now, before you say it, I know. I know the battles aren't on the same level of quality as that of what I had during the Pokemon League, I mean honestly, a lot of my ideas that I had for the Elite Four battles ended up being used in the Silver Conference battles and so I had to come up with new battle strategies on the fly while I was making this chapter. Hopefully you guys enjoyed these battles either way.

I know Neji's battle was a bit disappointing to say the least, but hear me out. He's a prodigy, he's a genius, he's the youngest member of the Elite Four, and even though he's not as much of a dick, Neji is a still a stuck up, overconfident guy because of the things I just listed beforehand. He mastered the technique of his clan from high level training of Psychic-types, at an early age, allowing him to beat his father and take his place, but being young, obviously the power would get to his head and swell his ego. Naruto fought back with strategies that served to incapacitate and disable to Byakugan, and also his Pokemon possess a level of speed that makes an all seeing eye technique useless since, even if you are capable of seeing things all around you, unless you have the physical capability to react and dodge the attacks, then it's basically the same as getting hit by a move that is within field of vision.

I don't think I did too bad for Orochimaru's battle. He made Naruto struggle. He had the experience, he had the tactics, he utilized said tactics and he used his strongest Pokemon to practically wipe the floor with Ampharos and Dragonite and as the writer, I believe I showed that Naruto had to really struggle to fight back and pull off the win showing just how much of a level ahead the Elite Four are compared to Sasuke, Ryuu and other trainers and it will only get tougher as he goes to fight Gai in the next chapter.

Hope you guys enjoyed the chapter and remember to review, review, review!)

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Pokedex: Seen-255

Caught-255

Character Bio: Anko Mitarashi

Eye Colour: Brown

Hair Colour: Purple

About: Anko is a beautiful young woman who takes charge of any situation she has been thrust into. As a young girl, she was actually scouted by Elite Four member Orochimaru to be his disciple. She took his teachings with regards to battling to heart, becoming quite the combatant herself, but Orochimaru was also looking for a student who shared his love for the scientific side of Pokemon and so, with a heavy heart, she was let go. However, with her loud voice and charismatic character, Anko was scouted by the Pokemon League Association to be the MC for its Pokemon Contest programme, something she immediately took a liking to since the job basically required her to simply yell commentary into a microphone. Ever since then, Anko had been MC-ing for the Pokemon Contests all across the joint region of Kanto and Johto. With her amazingly good looks, her ability to be blunt in every situation and her fantastic commentating, her popularity skyrocketed and she became a world renowned celebrity to all who partake in Pokemon Contests. She was also tested for insanity when she had made her appearance before Izuna Uchiha. She failed the test, but she is continued to be thought of as mentally unstable.

Naruto's Team:

Typhlosion(Male)

Pidgeot(Male)

Heracross(Male)

Quagsire(Female)

Ampharos(Female)

Dragonite(Female)

Hinata's Team:

Espeon (Female)

Butterfree(Female)

Nidoqueen(Female)

Jumpluff(Female)

Lapras(Male)

Togekiss(Male)

Sasuke's Team:

Feraligatr(Male)

Sneasel(Male)

Gengar(Male)

Rapidash(Female)

Red Gyarados(Male)

Rhydon(Male)

Sakura's Team:

Meganium(Female)

Azumarill(Female)

Porygon2(No Gender)

Wigglytuff(Male)

Ninetails(Female)

Raichu/Pika(Male)

Akatsuchi's Team:

Golem(Male)

Steelix(Male)

Sudowoodo(Male)

Crobat(Female)