Episode 311: Zell's Last Stand!
It was shortly after Sora had his battle against Juan and won his eighth and final Gym Badge. Now, he had what he needed to enter the Hoenn Pokémon League. He had already taken on the Battle Frontier, so Sora had met his goal, but Kairi still had to meet hers.
While Sora was lost in thought, he hears the bell ringing, indicating that his Pokémon are ready to be picked up. Sora picked up his Pokémon from Nurse Joy and her two helpers.
"Here you are. Your Pokémon are one hundred percent feeling much better," Nurse Joy said.
"Thanks a lot, Nurse Joy," Sora said.
"You are welcome. And since you have won your eighth Gym Badge, it is time that I officially register you to confirm that you have everything you need," Nurse Joy said.
"Yeah, that'll be great," Sora said.
"I would like to see your Gym Badges and your Rotom Phone, please," Nurse Joy requested. Sora presented the nurse his Badges and his Rotom Phone. Nurse Joy has registered Sora's information. It took less than 30 seconds to get it done. "There. Everything is in order. You now have the privilege to participate in the Hoenn Pokémon League."
"Thanks a lot, Nurse Joy," Sora said.
"You're welcome. And I wish you luck in the tournament," Nurse Joy said.
"Thanks," Sora said. He took out his Pokémon Box and he exchanged Breloom, Shiftry, Ludicolo, and Cacturne for Swellow, Metagross, Gallade, and Glalie. "There. That's done."
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"We'll get started on our training as soon as Brendan wins his Gym battle," Sora said.
"Chu," Pikachu agreed.
"Sounds like you're well on your way, Sora," a familiar Female voice spoke. Sora saw Rei walking up to him.
"Master Rei!" Sora said.
"Pika!" Pikachu also exclaimed.
"When did you get here?" Sora asked.
"Just today. I was hoping I would see your Gym battle, but it looks like I was too late for it," Rei said.
"I was gonna give you a call," Sora said.
"I know you were, Sora. Has Brendan have his battle yet?" Rei asked.
"No, not yet. I can take you to them right now, Master," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
With that said, Sora leads his Master to the rest of the group who were waiting for him in the messhall.
"Master!" Kairi, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, and May all said in unison.
"Is that her?" Michael whispered to Terra.
"Yes, that's her," Terra whispered back.
"Hello Ventus, Terra, Aqua, Karen. How nice to see you four again," Rei said.
"I feel the same way, Miss Sakura," Aqua said with respect. She noticed Hikaru and Zinnia with the group.
"You're one of Ben's apprentices, aren't you? Hikaru Ōkami, is that right?" Rei asked.
"Yes. Master Ben has told me so much about you," Hikaru said.
"I feel the same way, Hikaru. Also, I am sorry to hear about Lucius. I'm sure you and your master are worried sick," Rei said.
"Very," Hikaru assured. She sets her attention on Zinnia.
"And who are you?" Rei asked.
"My name is Zinnia, and this is my Whismur, Aster. Say hello, Aster," Zinnia said.
"Whismur," Aster said.
"It's nice to meet you, too, Zinnia and Aster," Rei said.
"We brought someone we think you should meet, Rei," Karen said.
"Is that right?" Rei asked.
"That's right," Michael said, standing up. "My name is Michael, and I came from the Orre region," Michael said.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Michael, but you're not here to make small talk, are you?" Rei asked.
"No. The thing is, I have a Keyblade of my own, and I was told that I should see you for some training," Michael said.
"And how did you acquire your Keyblade if you don't mind me asking?" Rei asked.
"I got them when the Heartless attacked Professor Krane's lab. My mom and sister were in trouble, and I wanted to protect them, so my Keyblade appeared in my hand and I used it to save them. After I have purified the last Shadow Pokémon, Karen, Terra, Aqua, and Ven convinced me to come with them to the Hoenn region to talk to you about learning what I can about the Keyblade," Michael said. Rei looked at Michael and she could tell he has lots of potential, and she had to keep her promise to her old master in taking in any young Keyblade wielder she came across.
"Well, I can sense you have a strong light and a strong heart, so I'll do it. But I will warn you that learning the ways of the Keyblade takes years to learn, so you won't find it to be easy when learning my teachings," Rei said.
"I never do easy, Master," Michael said.
"Wow, it looks like they got themselves a new classmate," Lisia said.
"You're right, Lisia. The world's getting a lot more magical," Karen said.
"Pikachu," Blossom said.
Now that Michael has become a new apprentice to Rei, he was willing to learn what he can.
Later, Lisia has brought her friends with her to her house.
"You sure it's okay, Lisia?" Sora asked.
"I'm sure, Sora. My mom already knows about you, so it's fine. The only thing I'm worried about is her asking me why I don't have a boyfriend yet," Lisia said. She opened the front door and stepped inside. "Mom, I'm home!" She gestured her friends to step inside. Coming down stairs is a woman who bares a striking resemblance to Lisia, except she has her hair down to her shoulders. She wore a cyan blouse and a long white skirt reaching her ankles. She wore a pair of white socks. She smiled widely.
"Lissi! My baby!" Lisia's mother said very happily. She rushes to Lisia and embraced her. "Oh, Lissi, welcome home! I missed you so much!"
"I missed you, too, mom," Lisia said, hugging her mother. She noticed the group of kids with her daughters.
"And who are they?" Lisia's mother asked.
"Mom, these are my friends. Meet Sora, Kairi, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Ethan, Brendan, Leaf, Kris, Lyra, May, Zinnia, Michael, Sora's twin sister, Karen, Aqua, Terra, Sora's cousin, Ven, and May's brother, Max," Lisia introduced.
"It's very nice to meet all of you. My name is Louise. My Lissi told me all about you in our phone calls. She told me all about how you're skilled Pokémon Trainers and brave young men and ladies for standing up to those horrible monsters," Louise said.
"You even call your daughter 'Lissi'?" Kairi asked.
"I do. And so does my little brother, Wallace, but not all the time. Putting all of that aside, I thank you at the bottom of my heart for looking after my daughter," Louise said.
"You don't have to thank us, ma'am. That's what friends do," Sora said.
"You're so very kind. And it's too bad you're already in a relationship because I would have hoped that you would be my Lissi's boyfriend," Louise said. Sora and Lisia blushed heavily as Kairi's cheeks puffed up with jealousy.
"Mother! You promised!" Lisia exclaimed. Louise laughed.
"Lighten up, Lissi! I was only kidding!" Louise said, laughing some more.
"It didn't seem funny to me," Kairi said in her thoughts.
"Putting all jokes aside, I'm sure that all of you are very hungry from your journey," Louise said.
"Thanks for the offer, but we already ate the Pokémon Center, so we're very full," Sora said.
"Stuffed," Karen said.
"But we might take you up for that tomorrow after I have my Gym battle," Brendan said.
"I guess you're right. But could you at least stick around for a bit?" Louise asked.
With that said, they stayed for a couple of hours before everyone except for Lisia returned to the Pokémon Center to sleep for the night. They learned some things they didn't seem to know about their friend.
On the very next morning, the group have returned to the Sootopolis City Gym just so Brendan could have his Gym battle against Juan. Like the last time, Sebastion is serving as the referee.
"The Gym battle between the Gym Leader Juan and the challenger Brendan from Littleroot Town is about to begin! This will be a full six-on-six battle! This battle shall be different than the previous battles before! The first round shall be a double battle! During the first round, both the challenger and the Gym Leader will be using their first Pokémon and no substitutions. The first round shall be over when either two Pokémon is unable to continue! The second round shall allow both contestants to use their remaining Pokémon. During the course of the second round, only the challenger is allowed make substitutions. The battle shall be over if all of either the challenger's or the Gym Leader's Pokémon are unable to continue battling! Choose your Pokémon and begin!" Sebastion announced. Juan took out two Pokéballs and threw them.
"Go forth, Sealeo and Seaking!" Juan called out. Both his Sealeo and Seaking entered the battlefield. Brendan took out his Pokéballs and threw them.
"Alright! Sceptile, Raichu! Go!" Brendan shouted. His Pokéballs opened. Sceptile and a Kantonian Raichu emerged from inside.
"Hey, when did Brendan get a Raichu?" Sora asked.
"When he caught his own Pikachu a while back," May said as Ventus took out his Rotom Phone to scan it.
Raichu, the Mouse Pokémon
The evolved form of Pikachu.
Type: Electric
Raichu uses its tail to discharge electricity into the ground in order to protect itself from being shocked by its own electricity.
"I see you have come prepared for my Water-types as well, young Brendan. I admire your strategy," Juan said.
"Thanks, Juan," Brendan said.
"You may have the first move," Juan said.
"Raichu! Use Shock Wave on Sealeo! Sceptile! Use Seed Bomb on Seaking!" Brendan ordered. Sceptile fired Seed Bomb at Seaking as Raichu fired Shock Wave at Sealeo.
"Seaking! Horn Drill!" Juan ordered. Seaking spins its horn around, taking the electricity as Sceptile's Seed Bomb misses.
"I didn't think Horn Drill could be used like that," Rei said.
"It can. I would know because he used that trick on me yesterday," Sora said.
"Let's hope Brendan can turn it around and fast," May said.
"Seaking! Use your Hyper Beam, and Sealeo, use Aurora Beam!" Juan ordered. Seaking and Sealeo fired their attacks at their opponents.
"Dodge it, the both of you!" Brendan called out. Sceptile ran to avoid their attacks as Raichu ran as well. "Dragon Claw on Seaking! Thunder Punch on Sealeo!" Sceptile swiped his claw at Seaking as Raichu lands an electrified punch onto Sealeo.
"Sealeo! Use Aurora Beam on Sceptile! Seaking! Use Hyper Beam on Raichu!" Juan ordered. Sealeo fired Aurora Beam at Sceptile while Seaking fired Hyper Beam at Raichu.
"Dodge it!" Brendan ordered. Sceptile managed to dodge Sealeo's Aurora Beam, but Raichu was hit by Seaking's Hyper Beam. Raichu was knocked out by the powerful attack.
"Raichu is unable to battle!" Sebastion announced.
"Brendan lost Raichu on the first round!" Lyra said.
"Yeah, but Sceptile is still in it. I wonder if he can handle two opponents at once," Hikaru said. Brendan called his Raichu back inside.
"You battled hard, Raichu. Get a good, ling rest," Brendan said. "Okay, Seaking won't be able to attack again after using Hyper Beam, so Seed Bomb on Seaking!" Brendan ordered. Sceptile fired Seed Bomb at the Goldfish Pokémon.
"Sealeo! Use your Ice Beam! Seaking! Use your Horn Drill!" Juan ordered. Sealeo fired Ice Beam while Seaking rushed at Sceptile with Horn Drill.
"Sceptile! Solar Blade!" Brendan ordered. Sceptile began to build up energy for Solar Blade. The Forest Pokémon dodged both attacks just for Sceptile to build up focus.
"Brendan really wants to end this fast if he's using Solar Blade," Ethan said.
"Yeah, because Solar Blade takes time to build up to use," Terra said.
Sceptile had built up enough energy to unleash Solar Beam, so the leaves on both of Sceptile's arms sharpen. The Forest Pokémon rushed at Sealeo and Seaking, dealing some heavy damage. Sceptile's Solar Blade was strong enough to take the both of them down.
"Both Seaking and Sealeo are unable to continue battling! Sceptile wins! The Gym battle shall now proceed to a single battle! And as you know, the battle shall be over if all of either the challenger's or the Gym Leader's Pokémon are unable to continue battling!" Sebastion announced.
With that said, Brendan calls his Sceptile back inside his Pokéball, knowing Sceptile had used up a lot of energy in using Solar Blade.
"Get some rest for now, Sceptile. You earned it," Brendan said. He took out another Pokéball and threw it. "Your turn now, Breloom!" His Pokéball opened and his Breloom have emerged from inside.
"Hey, looks like Brendan's Breloom evolved," Sora said.
"Yeah, but I have a feeling I know which one is next," Riku said. Juan took out his Pokéball and threw it.
"Go! Luvdisc!" Juan called out. His Pokéball opened and his Luvdisc emerged from inside.
"We all knew it. It's Luvdisc," Ash said.
"It'll be bad if Brendan's Breloom is a boy," Kris said.
"Breloom! Use Sleep Powder!" Brendan ordered. Breloom sprinkles Sleep Powder and sends it at Luvdisc.
"Dodge it!" Juan called out. Luvdisc avoids Breloom's Sleep Powder just by diving underwater. Luvdisc resurfaces once Sleep Powder has vanished. "Attract!" Luvdisc sends out Attract at the Mushroom Pokémon.
"I don't think so! Breloom! Use Close Combat!" Brendan ordered. Breloom gave out a series of punches to take out the hearts before they could even hit it. Juan was impressed by what he was seeing.
"I never would have imagined this. Using Close Combat to avoid Luvdisc's Attract. A creative strategy," Juan said.
"Sleep Powder!" Brendan ordered. Breloom unleashed Sleep Powder again and sent it at Luvdisc.
"Dodge it, Luvdisc!" Juan called out. Luvdisc dives underwater again, but Brendan saw that coming.
"Brick Break on the water!" Brendan ordered. Breloom gave a Brick Break on the water, creating a shock wave in the pool, and forcing Luvdisc back up to the surface.
"My word!" Juan gasped. Luvdisc then fell victim to Breloom's Sleep Powder, making the Rendezvous Pokémon fall right to sleep.
"That was awesome. I didn't think he would pull that off," Leaf said.
"Me neither. That was a great move, using Brick Break on the water like that," Lyra said.
"Okay, Breloom! Use Bullet Seed!" Brendan ordered. Breloom fired Bullet Seed, hitting Luvdisc on the mark, resulting in a knockout.
"Luvdisc is unable to battle! Breloom wins!" Sebastion announced.
"Great job, Breloom," Brendan said.
"Loom," Breloom said.
"Wow, Brendan took down half of Juan's team," Ventus said.
"Yeah, but it isn't over yet," Aqua said.
Juan calls his Luvdisc back.
"A wonderful job, Luvdisc. You've earned a good, long rest," Juan said. He took out another Pokéball and threw it. "Whiscash! I choose you!" His Pokéball opened and Whishcash emerged from inside.
"Okay, stay on your toes, Breloom, because that Whiscash knows Hyper Beam," Brendan said.
"Loom," Breloom said.
"Use Mach Punch!" Brendan ordered. Breloom rushes at Whishwash with a Mach Punch.
"Grab Breloom with your whiskers!" Juan called out. Whiscash grabs the Mushroom Pokémon with its whiskers. "Tickle!" Whishcash tickles Breloom.
"Don't try to laugh!" Brendan said. Breloom tried hard not to laugh, but the tickling became too much for the Mushroom Pokémon to resist. Breloom continues to fight back against the tickling. "Sleep Powder!" Despite the tickling, Breloom unleashed a Sleep Powder, letting Whishcash fall right to sleep. "Bullet Seed!" Breloom fired a barrage of Bullet Seeds. "Brick Break!" Breloom lands a Brick Break on Whishcash, dealing some heavy damage, resulting in a knockout.
"Whishcash is unable to battle! Breloom wins!" Sebastion announced.
"Wow, I thought Breloom was gonna be done for," May said.
"Same here. A close shave," Michael said. Juan calls his Whishcash back and he smiled.
"Excellent, Whishcash. Get yourself a good rest," Juan said. He took out his Pokéball and threw it. "Go forth, Crawdaunt!" His Pokéball opened and his Crawdaunt emerged from inside, ready to battle. Brendan calls his Breloom back and he took out his next Pokéball and threw it.
"Swampert! Go!" Brendan called out. His Pokéball opened and his Swampert emerged from inside.
"Look at that. His Mudkip evolved all the way to Swampert," Leaf said.
"Looks like he wants to keep the playing field even," Rei said.
"You have yourself a fine looking Swampert. Judging by how it looks, you have done a wonderful job raising it," Juan said.
"Thanks, Juan. I gave Swampert a lot of training," Brendan said.
"I don't doubt it. Crawdaunt! Use Crabhammer!" Juan ordered. Crawdaunt jumped to give Swampert a hit with Crabhammer.
"Swampert! Use Power-Up Punch!" Brendan ordered. Swampert and Crawdaunt came at each other and landed a collision of Power-Up Punch and Crabhammer. Both were evenly matched, but Swampert felt its attack power increasing.
"Power-Up Punch increases the attack power of a Pokémon when used," Naminé said.
"Yeah, and with that being a Fighting-type move and Crawdaunt being a Dark-type, it'll deal some heavy damage," Sora said.
"Crawdaunt! Guillotine!" Juan ordered.
"Dodge it, Swampert!" Brendan ordered. Swampert avoids Crawdaunt's Guillotine just by moving on the side. "Mub Bomb!" Swmpert fired a Mud Bomb and it deals some additional damage.
"That looks like it dealt some serious damage," Lyra said.
"I guess Crawdaunt's ability must be Hyper Cutter. If Crawdaunt's ability was Shell Armor, it would have done less damage than it already did," Rei said.
"Crawdaunt! Water Pulse!" Juan ordered. Crawdaunt formed Water Pulse and unleashed it right at the Mud Fish Pokémon.
"Dodge and use Power-Up Punch!" Brendan ordered. Swampert jumped and came at Crawdaunt with a Power-Up Punch, dealing some heavy damage, dealing some extra damage. Crawdaunt was knocked out.
"Crawdaunt is unable to battle! Swampert wins!" Sebastion announced.
"Now, Juan's down to left," Ash said.
"And I have a feeling it could be what I think it is," Sora said.
Most of the group agreed with Sora as Rei wondered what Sora was talking about. Juan called back his Crawdaunt and he took out his final Pokéball.
"Well done, Brendan. You and your Pokémon are in perfect synch with one another. But it has yet come to an end. I now present to you my final Pokémon," Juan said as he threw his Pokéball. "I choose you, Kingdra!" His Pokéball opened and his Kingdra emerged from inside.
"A Kingdra?" Rei asked.
"Yeah. Took me by surprise that he had a Kingdra waiting for me when I battled him. I thought he was going to use his Milotic against me, but he sent out his Kingdra instead," Sora said.
"Let's hope Brendan takes it down like you did," Ash said.
"Still good to go, Swampert?" Brendan asked.
"Pert," Swampert nodded.
"Great! Power-Up Punch!" Brendan ordered. Swampert rushes at the Dragon Pokémon to land a hit.
"Dragon Dance!" Juan ordered. Kingdra dances around, building up Kingdra's attack power and speed. "Ice Beam!" Kingdra fired Ice Beam, hitting Swampert. The Mud Fish Pokémon ends up being frozen. "Dragon Pulse!" Kingdra unleashed Dragon Pulse, hitting Swampert, resulting in a knockout.
"Swampert is unable to battle! Kingdra wins!" Sebastion announced.
"Swampert didn't even land a hit on Kingdra," Ventus said.
"That's because Kingdra's more experienced in battle than Swampert is," Hikaru said.
"Let's hope Brendan has something to turn it around," Kairi said. Brendan calls his Swampert back.
"You were awesome, Swampert. Get some rest," Brendan said. He took out his next Pokéball and threw it. "Alright, Azumarill! Your turn!" Brendan's Pokéball opened and his Azumarill came out to battle.
"Good choice on Brendan's part. Fairy-type Pokémon are immune to Dragon-type moves," Hikaru said.
"And let's hope it'll be enough," Max said.
"Ralts," Ralts said.
"Okay, Azumarill! Use Play Rough!" Brendan ordered. Azumarill rushes at Kingdra. Azumarill gave Kingdra a series of beatings.
"Kingdra! Ice Beam!" Juan ordered. Kingdra fired Ice Beam at the Aqua Rabbit Pokémon.
"Dodge and use Mega Punch!" Brendan ordered. Azumarill lands a Mega Punch on it. "Aqua Tail!"
"Ice Beam again!" Juan ordered. Kingdra fired another Ice Beam, freezing Azumarill like it did with Swampert. "Use Hydro Pump!" Kingdra unleashed a powerful Hydro Pump, sending Azumarill back. Azumarill was knocked out.
"Azumarill is unable to battle! Kingdra wins!" Sebastion announced. Brendan calls his Azumarill back and he took out his next Pokéball.
"Okay, if Fairy-type Pokémon aren't going to do it, but there's one thing that will," Brendan said, throwing his Pokéball. "Go! Shelgon!" His Pokéball opened and his Shelgon emerged from inside.
"A Shelgon? It's really risky, because Shelgon is at a huge disadvantage," Max pointed out.
"Granted that Shelgon knows one Ice Beam, that's going to be a problem. But the other thing is, both are weak against Dragon-type moves," Riku said.
"Eevee," Eevee said.
"Okay, Shelgon. Be ready," Brendan said. Shelgon nodded.
"An interesting choice. I can tell your Shelgon looks strong. But let me see how strong. Kingdra! Dragon Pulse!" Juan ordered. Kingdra unleashed a Dragon Pulse.
"Protect!" Brendan ordered. Shelgon had made a protective barrier and Dragon Pulse bounced right off.
"That was close. If that hit, it would have been ugly," Ethan said.
"Nice save," Michael said.
"Okay, Shelgon! Use Dragon Breath!" Brendan ordered.
"Use Ice Beam!" Juan ordered.
Because of Kingdra's speed, Kingdra fired Ice Beam first as Shelgon managed to fire Dragon Breath. The two attacks collides with each other and they held on. But due the effects of Dragon Dance, Kingdra's Ice Beam pushes back and it deals a super-effective hit on Shelgon.
"Shelgon!" Brendan exclaimed.
"Dragon Pulse!" Juan ordered. Kingdra unleashed a Dragon Pulse, landing a hit and resulting a knockout.
"Shelgon is unable to battle! Kingdra wins!" Sebastion announced.
"Now they both have one left to use," Aqua said.
"Somehow I have a feeling Brendan planned it right from the start," Sora said. Everyone all looked at him.
"What are you getting at, Sora?" Max asked.
"I don't if there's a right or wrong way to explain, but I think since Sceptile is his first Pokémon and this his last Gym battle, so he thought maybe he would finish up with Sceptile," Sora said.
"You know, I'm starting to think that makes a lot of sense. I would feel the same way if it was me and Combusken," May said.
Brendan took out Sceptile's Pokéball and threw it.
"Sceptile! You're going back out!" Brendan called out. His Pokéball opened and his Sceptile came out to battle. Brendan said in his thoughts, "Sceptile, everything we been through couldn't compare to this. Not even Heartless, Nobodies, Unversed, Digimon, or the Organization could measure up to this. Our strengths and our hearts are one!" He called out. "Sceptile! Use Dragon Claw!" Sceptile ran and heads right for Kingdra.
"Dodge and use Ice Beam!" Juan ordered. Kingdra avoids Sceptile's Dragon Claw and fired Ice Beam.
"Dodge it!" Brendan called out. Sceptile dodged Kingdra's Ice Beam and swiped his claws at Kingdra. "Use Dragon Claw again!" Sceptile slashed at Kingdra with Dragon Claw.
"Dragon Pulse!" Juan ordered. Kingdra fired Dragon Pulse right at Sceptile again.
"Solar Blade!" Brendan ordered. Sceptile jumped in the air and his leaves are building up sunlight and extending.
"Ice Beam!" Juan ordered. Kingdra fired Ice Beam right at Sceptile and lands a hit. Sceptile had taken some heavy damage, but Sceptile is still building up energy. Sceptile's Overgrow ability kicks in. Due to Sceptile's increased power, Sceptile then slashed through Kingdra's Ice Beam, landing a hit onto Kingdra. The Dragon Pokémon had taken loads of damage from Sceptile's Solar Blade. Kingdra was then knocked out.
"Kingdra is unable to battle! Sceptile wins! The winner is the challanger, Brendan from Littleroot Town!" Sebastion announced.
"I knew you would do it, Sceptile!" Brendan said, praising his partner.
"Sceptile," Sceptile said as he jumped towards Brendan and hugged his Trainer. Juan smied as he calls back his Kingdra.
"Well done, Kingdra. You've done well, my friend," Juan said. He then approached Brendan as he and Sceptile stepped down from the booth. "Well done, Brendan. You and your Pokemon are truly magnificent. As proof of your victory here in the Sootopolis City Gym, I present to you the Rain Badge." Juan presents Brendan his eighth and final Gym Badge.
"Thanks, Juan," Brendan said, accepting his Gym Badge.
"Now that you have earned all eight of our Gym Badges, you have earned your right to participate in the Hoenn Pokémon League located in Ever Grande City," Juan said.
"And I'm glad I have earned that right," Brendan said.
Everyone stepped outside as they prepared to head for the Pokémon Center to have Brendan's Pokémon healed from their injuries.
"Congratulations to you both, Sora and Brendan. I know you will do well in the Hoenn Pokemon League tournament. I have a request for the both of you," Juan said.
"A request?" Sora asked.
"What can we do for you, Juan?" Brendan asked.
"I would like to request that you continue to raise all of those wonderful Pokémon of yours," Juan requested. Sora and Brendan both smiled.
"You don't need to worry about that, Juan," Sora said.
"We'll do exactly that," Brendan said.
"I wish you all luck on your way. I trust that all of you will continue to grow strong in your own way," Juan said.
"You know, Juan," May said.
"We're glad that we had this opportunity to meet you," Kris said.
With that said, the group heads back to the Pokemon Center to heal Brendan's team when they spotted Louise inside.
"Mom? What are you doing here?" Lisia asked.
"I've been here ever since you left for the Gym, so I figured you would be still going with them, honey," Louise said.
"Yes, I am, mom. I'm sorry that we had to take off just after we got back together," Lisia said.
"I know, sweetie. Ever since you became an idol, I knew there would be times that you would travel around and advertise Contests, so I figured I couldn't stop you from going even if I tried. I ask that you be careful out there," Louise said.
"I will, mom," Lisia said.
"You don't have to worry, ma'am. Lisia will be in good hands," May assured.
"I know she will be," Louise said.
A few moments later, Brendan checked his Pokémon in to Nurse Joy and he begins to register for the tournament.
"May I see your Badges and Rotom Phone, please?" Nurse Joy requested.
"Sure," Brendan said, showing her his Badges and presenting his Rotom Phone. After thirty seconds, Brendan's information gets recorded in the database.
"There. You are now registered for the Hoenn Pokemon League. I wish you luck," Nurse Joy said.
"I won't need it," Brendan said.
After having his Pokémon healed, the group left Sootopolis City and proceeded to explore a couple more islands to train. After coming to the next island, Zell is watching from a short distance.
"Sora Ketchum. This will be it. The bottom of the barrel, there is no running away for you," Zell said in his thoughts.
At another spot, the Elemental Bosses were watching a short distance as well.
"There he is. Just right there," Ozean said.
"Well, what are we waiting for?! I say we rush him now!" Rokku exclaimed.
"Not yet. I can sense that Zell is nearby, so I figure we let him have the first try, and let him die by Ketchum's hands," Ozean said.
"I was hoping you would say that. But I also hope he makes it fast, because I'm no good at waiting," Luft said.
Unknown to the group, Harley was approaching the group and he eyes May with a hateful glare.
"There you are, May. I would like nothing more than to have my revenge against you," Harley said.
Just then, Drew approached the group along with his Roselia.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't it May and her friends," Drew said.
"Oh, great. Drew," May deadpanned.
"I take it that you won your five Ribbons or you're still struggling to earn your next one?" Drew asked.
"I'll have you know, Drew, I have earned my five Ribbons already," May said, showing her rival her Contest Ribbons. "Stick that in your pipe and smoke it!"
"You're even better than I gave you credit for, because I would have told you that the next Pokémon Contest is going on in Pacifidlog Town," Drew said.
"At least we know where to go next," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"Pikachu," Xipak said.
"It sure does. I'm really work hard to earn my next Ribbon," Kairi said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"Eevee," Celeste said.
"But there's also one more thing I should bring up. The next Contest will be the last Contest because of the Grand Festival. After that, it'll be all over and done," Drew said.
"That's telling it bluntly," Max said.
"And who is this guy?" Karen asked.
"This guy is Drew. He's a Pokémon Coordinator we met in Slateport City during Kairi's first Contest. Kairi ended up battling him during the second round," Sora said.
"Pika," Pikachu said.
"What brings you out here, Drew? You training for the Grand Festival?" Riku asked.
"You could say that since I won my last Ribbon. I need my Roselia to be in top-notch shape," Drew said.
"Your Roselia does look in good shape," Riku said.
"Well, do my eyes decive me or do I see May? And Sora and Kairi, too. The world is smaller than I thought if I'm running into you here," Harley said, pretending to be nice.
"You again!" May hissed.
"Hey, now, what's this of a sudden?" Harley asked.
"Don't pretend you don't remember! You tried to psyche me out with a lie you told me!" May accused.
"Oh? Is that what is that all about? Oh, I thought you would be mad about that. I wanted to say that I am sorry for what that mean and nasty comment I said to you. It was totally uncalled for," Harley said. Sora, Kairi, Karen, Ventus, Terra, Aqua, Brendan, May, and Max weren't buying it.
"And this would be?" Hikaru asked.
"Harley. Another Pokémon Coordinator we met on Izabe Island," Sora whispered.
"I see some new faces, too. A pleasure to meet you," Harley said.
"Yeah, we're sure you are," Ash deadpanned.
It was obvious that the rest of the group were told about him.
"So, Harley, you won another Ribbon?" Kairi asked.
"I'm glad you brought that up, Kairi, because I have my five Ribbons," Harley said, showing the group his Contest Ribbons.
"Wow, that's impressive," Hikaru said.
"What do you expect? I expect nothing from my beloved Cacturne," Harley asked.
"What brings you out here, Harley?" Sora asked.
"I was just passing by and I saw your cheerful faces, and I had to come and hello," Harley said.
"Well, I am sure we appreciate it," Rei said, wary of Harley, sensing insincerity coming from him. She also sensed another unexpected presence.
"What's up with her?" Harley asked.
"You're asking us?" Ventus asked.
"Pika?" Sparky asked.
"Someone is near," Rei whispered.
"SORA KETCHUM!" A voice shouted. Most of the group knew the voice.
"Zell!" Sora and Kairi exclaimed.
Just then, jumped and lands right in front of the group. He glared right at Sora.
"You thought you were gonna get away from me, did you? Well, you should have put more thought into your hopes," Zell said.
"You know him?" Drew asked.
"Unfortunately, yes, we do. He has it in for Sora because he and the others brought down a gang of crooks called Team Rocket," Brendan said.
"Hey, where are your friends hiding?" May asked.
"You mean those four losers? I cut ties with them after our last meeting. They were just holding me back, but this time, there's no running away! This time, only one of us will be walking away, Ketchum," Zell said as he summoned his Keyblade. This surprises Harley.
"Is that a giant key?" Harley asked, stunned.
"That's a Keyblade!" Drew said.
"Keyblade?" Harley asked.
"If you want a fight, then you got one!" Sora said as he, Kairi, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Michael, Rei, and Hikaru all summoned their Keyblades. This surprised Drew, seeing May had a Keyblade, too.
"When did she get one of those?" Drew asked.
"When you pick a fight with one of us, then you better be ready to take on the rest of us," Ethan said.
"I'm going to make you eat those words," Zell said as he rushes at the Keyblade wielders. Sora and Riku clashed against Zell's Keyblade as Ash and Leaf casts a fire spell, but Zell blocks it. Ethan and Kris came at Zell, but he clashed against their Keyblades as Lyra joins in the fray. Zell casts a duplication spell, making two copies of himself. The doubles dealt with Ethan, Kris, and Lyra. Brendan and May joined in, taking on Zell and the doubles. May struck at one, turning out to be the fake as Brendan came at Zell, so he gave him a punch, taking him down, but he wasn't out. Michael casts a thunder spell, hitting Zell. "I'm gonna make you pay for that!"
"I don't think so!" Hikaru said, swinging his Keyblade, but Zell blocked. Rei attempts to hit him, but he ducked and he his against clashed against Rei's.
Sora came at him as he and Zell clashed their Keyblades against one another. Despite being outnumbered, Zell has proven to be a formidable opponent. They were silently amazed by how he was able to hold his own.
Karen, Ventus, Terra, Aqua, Max, Lisia, Zinnia, Drew, Harley, and the Pokémon could only watch the fight as it gets fierce.
Zell has managed to push back the others as he focused on Sora. Sora has managed to come at Zell with some skills like dashing at Zell and then shooting out a beam of light from his Kingdom Key. Zell was struck by the light attack.
"I am done toying with you! Time to let out a little something extra!" Zell said as his whole body was giving off an aura of darkness. The darkness complex surrounds his body and Keyblade. The others attempt to join in, but Rei stopped them.
"No," Rei said.
"Why not, Master?" Kris asked.
"Because I think Sora is the one to end this," Rei said.
"Take a good look, Ketchum. This is what real power looks like. The power to finally take you out once and for all!" Zell said.
"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Sora said as Sora came at Zell as they clashed their Keyblades. Zell was giving it everything he had. Each attempt to take Sora down grew more vicious than the last. Sora wasn't willing to give up, so he managed to hold his own. Unknown to him, Roxas was giving Sora some extra strength and that was enough for Sora to push Zell back and give him the finishing blow, surprising the group. The aura of darkness fades away.
Zell stumbled backwards, growling and gripping his Keyblade, refusing to call it quits.
"I'm not finished yet! I won't stop! I won't! I won't! I WON'T!" Zell yelled to the heavens as darkness erupts his body.
"Give it up, Zell! It's over! You lost!" Sora said.
"No. I already told you that it's not over, and I won't ever stop! Nothing you say can make me change my mind!" Zell exclaimed. He unleashed a large wave of darkness, sending it at Sora, who swings his Kingdom Key and he cuts through it like a knife cutting butter. Sora raises his Keyblade up in the air and his entire body gave off a bright, shining light.
"I gave you every chance to give up your pointless journey for revenge! I tried to reason with you, but you refuse to listen to reason. In trying to avenge Team Rocket, you became lost in your very own darkness, and for that, I have to make you see the light!" Sora said as he aimed his Keyblade at Zell.
"Not that! No!" Zell yelled. The Kingdom Key shines brightly, and light has made a construct of a mighty sword.
"Excalibur!" Sora shouted as he lifts up and swings the sword with all his might. The sword of light strikes Zell down on his chest as Zell fell on his back. A vortex of Darkness appeared under Zell and he slowly sinks in the vortex.
"So this is how it all ends for me. I do everything I can to bring myself peace and it all goes down the drain. I failed miserably," Zell said.
"Zell. Just let me heal your wounds and give me your hands. I'll help you," Sora said.
"I don't want your help, Ketchum. I may die, but maybe Team Rocket will be reborn. And they'll have their revenge on you and take everything you have…everything you love. And when that happens, I will be there in death. I'll see you in the afterlife," Zell said as his whole body sank into the darkness as he grinned evilly before he laughed. Sora could only watch helplessly as Zell has sank into the darkness. As he watched Zell die, Sora couldn't help but feel sorry for him. He wondered what his life would have been like if he had a better one.
"Zell…" Sora said.
"There was nothing you could have done for him, Sora," Rei said, placing her hand on his shoulder. Sora looked at her. "Zell made his path very clear, and he was beyond help. But I know you would have tried if you were given the chance, but you should remember that you cannot save everyone." Sora nodded as he understood.
"Now that Zell's dealt with, our Team Rocket troubles are over for now," Kairi said.
"For about three seconds," a familiar voice spoke. It turns out that it was Ozean who spoke as he appeared out from a puddle of water as Rokku emerged from the earth. Fue has appeared in flames as Luft has arrived through a tornado.
"You still have the four of us to deal with," Luft said.
"And this time, there's no running away," Fue said.
"The Elemental Bosses!" Sora exclaimed.
"Elemental Bosses?" Drew asked.
"Who are these freaks?" Harley asked.
"These four are Team Rocket fanatics like Zell. And like Zell, they want to have their revenge on Sora for taking down Team Rocket," May explained.
"Taking you separately didn't work. Teaming up with another enemy of yours didn't work. This time will be very different," Ozean said.
Not too far, Vanitas was watching the fight with Zell, and he was about to watch the final fight with the Elemental Bosses.
"Well, this is turning out more entertaining than I thought. And to think, I thought it was going to be boring," Vanitas said as he chuckled under his mask.
Uh-oh! Just when one fight was finished, another one landed right on their laps. And it looks like they're playing for keeps this time. Will Sora be able to take on the Elemental Bosses or will they realize their revenge? Find out as we continue to the next chapter.
Alright, I have been thinking about a review that asks if I plan on doing Pokémon Contests for the Kanto region, so I did consider it. If I am to have Pokémon Contests in the Kanto region in my fic, then I thought of having Sora participate in a tournament, but I thought of it being a tribute to the Pokémon Stadium games, but I am gonna be introducing Chase, Elaine, and Trace as a tribute to Pokémon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee. I was originally was gonna jump right to the Sinnoh arc right after the Hoenn arc, but thanks to that reviewer, this idea came to me. I haven't thought about Castle Oblivion, but it might come up at some point, and I am going to do the Delta Episode, and how Xion came to be is different than that of the Kingdom Hearts games. Adding to that, Brendan will receive another Keyblade, based on Rayquaza. I hope you're satisfied with the answers I have given. That's all for now. In the meantime, be sure to favorite and follow this fic and its spin-offs if you wanna be in the loop.