Disclaimer: I do not own any of the material appearing in this story. The OC's belong to their respective owners.
BGM: Funny Goings-on (Mario and Luigi: Paper Jam)
"I'm sorry… WHAT did you just say?!" Alessandra said in surprise.
Hiyoko smiled, showing off her Champion rank title. "I said I softened them up for ya~"
Hiyoko Saionji - Champion Rank
"Oh my gosh! That's amazing!" Nora exclaimed as she immediately glomped her along with Jinx, causing the traditional dancer to giggle as the rest of JPR and Kitakami crew walked over to congratulate her.
"Hold up a second, time out!" Nemona said. "You mean to tell me you managed to go through everyone?"
"Yeah, they figured out that I wasn't your everyday traditional Pokemon trainer, so they tried to go all out and yet… I still pulled it off. The Elite Four was a bit tricky, but I pulled through."
Hiyoko giggled, pulling out a Tera Orb. "And I did it all without Terastalizing~"
"HUH?!" Nemona looked at her own pockets before looking back at Hiyoko and then back at her own pockets. "I thought I felt a little lighter… but… you said you didn't want it so why did you snag it from me?"
"It's called a souvenir. Maybe you've heard of the concept." Hiyoko teased.
Nemona sweatdropped. "You got me there…"
"I have to say, Aless… I started my journey after you did and I somehow managed to sneak past ya. Did some sight seeing~?"
"Well… I… did some side projects." Alessandra said.
"Ah, lot of sidequesting, eh? I understand."
"I'm not sure how I feel about being a "sidequest"..." Arven admitted.
"There there." Cinder patted him on the back.
"While you were busy sidequesting, I've heard rumors that Team Star has been falling apart recently."
"That'd be us." Ruby raised her hand. "Though Weiss did most of the work. She even took down the big boss~!"
"Barely, though…"
Hiyoko chuckled. "Nice. So, Aless… before you head in here, you wanna have a quick battle with me? Think of it as a warm up before you tackle the Elite Four."
"Technically, Ruby was her warm up." Pit said.
"Oh, was she? Well, never hurts to have a double warm up."
Alessandra chuckled. "Alright, I guess I can tussle with you."
"Awesome~! Let me go heal up my Pokemon and then we'll have a battle. Oh, and a small request… I never Terastalized my Pokemon so-"
"You don't want me to Terastalize either? I'm cool with that."
"Perfect~!" Hiyoko skipped off to the Pokemon Center to heal her team up while Alessandra handed her Tera Orb to Hop.
"Here, so I won't get tempted."
"Okay!" Hop smiled.
End BGM
Once Hiyoko finished healing her team, a smile crept up on her face as she slowly turned toward Alessandra who was busy doing some stretches while everyone else had gathered around to watch the two fight.
BGM: Dance of the Sacred Beasts/Kimono Summoning Dance (Pokemon HeartGold/SoulSilver)
Hiyoko brought out her tessans and took a step forward, proceeding to dance traditionally as she spun around gracefully as a soft wind blew through.
"Behold how the wind dances around the grass, how it gently commands it to move against its might."
A leaf blew off of a tree as it gently descended toward Hiyoko.
"You've done well to make it this far…"
She brought her tessan close to her face.
"But-
End BGM
The leaf gently landed on the tessan, where Hiyoko sharply closed it and opened her eyes.
BGM: Battle! Ho-Oh (Pokemon HeartGold/SoulSilver)
"Experience is going to squash you like an ant!"
Ultimate Traditional Dancer - Hiyoko
Talk about going for the throat… Alessandra sweatdropped as both pulled out their Pokeballs and sent out their Pokemon.
"Mora!"
"Quaquava!"
Let's see how your battle style plays out. Hiyoko thought.
Rio started running toward Glimmora, proceeding to give him a good kick with Close Combat as Glimmora responded by using Mortal Draw, both moves connecting as Glimmora shot out Toxic Spikes around the field, however Rio was also poisoned by Glimmora's Mortal Draw.
"Quava…" Rio winced as Glimmora shook it off and used Acid Armor before striking with Sludge Wave as Rio shrouded himself in water and unleashed Wave Crash to retaliate and tried to power through the Sludge Wave. He pulled through despite the Sludge Wave hurting him and slammed into Glimmora.
"Glimmor…!" Glimmora cried as Rio staggered, his legs wobbling. Glimmora shot a Power Gem his way as Rio cartwheeled out of the way and struck him with Aqua Step, knocking Glimmora down as Alessandra used an Antidote on him.
Hiyoko pulled Glimmora away. Interesting, she's not healing up her Pokemon but simply used an Antidote? I see, she's probably saving her potions for the Elite Four. Smart, but it might cost her.
I know I'm saving them for the Elite Four and Glori, but I might have to use some. Alessandra used a Hyper Potion on Rio. I should've used more on Rubes…
There ya go. Hiyoko sent out her Tauros.
Rio squared up as the Tauros kicked its hoof back and charged as Rio proceeded to use Aqua Cutter, but Tauros already slammed into him before he could sweep him, knocking him up in the air.
However, Rio recovered and landed on top of the Tauros as the bull looked behind him and started to buck him off. Rio tried to hold on, but Tauros successfully bucked off the joyrider as Rio caught himself and brought himself up as he turned around and proceeded to use Acrobatics, but Tauros moved to the side and Thrashed into him, knocking him to the side as Tauros continued to attack.
Rio got away and proceeded to use Wave Crash against the thrashing bull, but Tauros managed to dodge and countered, knocking Quaquaval to the ground before picking him up with his horns, tossing him up as he turned around and kicked back his hoofs into his chest to sent him flying and slamming into the ground.
"Oooooh!" The audience winced as even Hiyoko had to wince.
"Qua… Quava…" Rio tried to get up but Alessandra swiftly pulled him back and then sent out Sherry.
"Tsaree!"
Tauros panted, feeling dazed and confused from all the thrashing, but Hiyoko reached into her bag and threw a Persim Berry over to Tauros, where he ate it up despite hallucinating three at once, but correctly chose the right one. Tauros perked up and kicked back, letting out a snort.
Both Pokemon charged ahead as Tauros picked up Sherry with his horns and launched her into the air, but Sherry recovered in midair as she immediately used Leaf Storm to cover the entire field. Sherry landed on the ground and quickly ran through the falling leaves as Tauros looked around and proceeded to lunge, only to gore a few leaves as Sherry continued to blend in.
Blending in with the Leaf Storm. Clever!
Sherry quickly made her move, jumping in and kicking the bull in the back with a Trop Kick. Tauros let out a surprised cry as he turned around and used Wave Crash, hitting Sherry but she caught him by the horns and dug her heels in while using another Leaf Storm, managing to get herself away from Tauros as he shook it off and used Raging Bull, only for Sherry to disappear into the leaves and then flanked him on the side with another Trop Kick, knocking the bull to the ground in defeat.
"Ole!" Alessandra giggled.
Hiyoko snickered. "Cute." She said, recalling Tauros as she then sent out Bronzong.
"Zoooong!"
Alessandra recalled Sherry and then sent out Wisp.
"Ceru!" Wisp's blade arms lit up and lunged directly at the Bronzong, who proceeded to use a point blank Hypnosis on him. "Ledge…?! Ceru…" Wisp closed his eyes, desperately trying to stay awake as Bronzong immediately threw himself on top of him with Heavy Slam, knocking the sleeping Pokemon down.
"Ceru-zzzzz…"
Alessandra recalled the sleeping Pokemon and sent out Raffia. "Umbre!"
Bronzong immediately went with Gyro Ball as Raffia's tail glowed as they both charged at each other as Raffia countered with an Iron Tail, both of them getting knocked back but before Raffia landed, he hit Bronzong with a Shadow Ball, striking Bronzong before he stopped spinning.
"Zong…!"
Bronzong immediately went for a Hypnosis as Raffia ran ahead, only to fall limp to the ground and had his eyes closed. Bronzong immediately went for a Heavy Slam while Alessandra reached her Pokeball to call Raffia back, but Raffia immediately shot off a Shadow Ball to knock Bronzong back.
He faked it?! Everyone thought in surprise as Raffia sprang back up and immediately hit him with a Dark Pulse to knock the surprised Bronzong to the ground in defeat.
"Credit where it's due, that was well played." Hiyoko complimented.
"Yeah, nice one, Raffia!" Alessandra complimented as well.
"Umbre!" Raffia beamed proudly.
Hiyoko recalled Bronzong and then sent out Dachsbun.
"Woof!"
"Steady!" Yang said, holding back an enamored Ruby with her eyes sparkling. Hiyoko glanced at Ruby and chuckled in amusement.
"Alright, sweetie! Knock that Umbreon down!"
Dachsbun ran ahead and proceeded to Play Rough with Raffia, but he swatted him away with Iron Tail to knock him back. Dachsbun shook it off and charged forward, attempting to use Double Edge as Raffia tried to deflect it with Iron Tail, but Dachsbun pushed through and slammed into Raffia.
"Umbre!" Raffia cried as he was knocked back several feet and landed on the ground, but he got up and shook his head, getting in his stance again as he went for a Shadow Ball, where Dachsbun jumped to the side and went for another Double Edge, this time Raffia leaped away from the Double Edge and used Dark Pulse on him, striking the Dachsbun as he powered through and pounced on him, Playing Rough with him.
"BREOOOOON!" Raffia cried as Dachsbun headbutted him away, but to his surprise, Raffia staggered up, his legs wobbling as he held on as much as he could as Dachsbun went for another Double Edge as Raffia's tail glowed as they both charged at each other, only for Raffia to front flip and smacked the back of Dachbun's back to KO him as Raffia landed… only to faint immediately after.
Both ladies recalled their Pokemon as Alessandra sent out Tut while Hiyoko sent out Kilowattrel.
"Kilooo!"
"Espa Pa!"
Kilowattrel immediately flapped his wings and used Dual Wingbeat, where Tut ran around to avoid the attacks as he then used Dazzling Gleam, striking Kilowattrel. Kilowattrel responded by hitting him point blank with an Electro Ball.
Tut responded with Agility and proceeded to use Psychic on him but he used Discharge to disrupt him, which also paralyzed Tut. "Espa… Pathra…!" Tut cried as he tried to fight through it and tried to use Lumina Crash, but Kilowattrel used another Dual Wingbeat to knock him back. Alessandra swiftly used a Paralyz Heal to get him back into shape as Tut charged with Lumina Crash, striking Kilowattrel.
"Wattaaa!" Kilowattrel cried as Tut hit him with Psychic and sent him crashing to the ground to knock him down for the count. "Wattre…"
"Oh dear, down to my last Pokemon." Hiyoko recalled Kilowattrel. "I have to say, you've gotten stronger last I've seen you."
"You're definitely putting me through my paces, though!"
"Good, I was hoping I wouldn't make this too boring for you~" Hiyoko sent out Krookodile.
"Diiiile!"
Alessandra recalled Tut and called Sherry back out right when Krookodile was digging through the ground. The ground underneath Sherry started to fall apart as Krookodile came in with an uppercut to knock Sherry back, but she quickly recovered as Krookodile used Crunch, but Sherry responded with a Trop flip Kick into his lower jaw, making it snap shut as he was knocked on his back.
Krookodile sprang back up and Thrashed about, swinging his arms to try and hit Sherry until he smacked her with his tail. Sherry was pushed away from it but didn't fall flat on her stomach as Krookodile continued to Thrash as Sherry ran around him as Krookodile chased after her, but soon got exhausted and confused by the ordeal.
Hiyoko pulled out another Persim Berry and threw it at Krookodile, but Sherry jumped up and kicked the berry back to Hiyoko. "Whoa!" Hiyoko caught the berry right as Sherry finished him off with a Triple Axel, knocking the Krookodile to the ground.
End BGM
Hiyoko chuckled. "Definitely met my match here. Not bad, Aless." She smiled. "Hell of a warm up, if I say so myself~"
Alessandra smiled as she high fived Sherry and went to the Pokemon center to heal up with Hiyoko. "So, why didn't you want to Terastalize?"
"Oh, think of it as a self-imposed challenge. Everyone in Paldea does it, so I thought "What if I don't do that? Make things more interesting." Hell, if I did the gym challenge in Galar, I'd make it a goal as to not Dynamax my Pokemon."
"Going against the tide, eh?"
"Why not~?" Hiyoko giggled as they healed up their Pokemon as they both fist bumped. "Knock 'em dead."
"I plan to~" Alessandra smiled as she walked off as Hop tossed her her Tera Orb back to her.
"You got this, sis!" Cian said to her.
Alessandra chuckled. "Thanks, bro." She walked into the league.
"So sorry, everyone… but the rules dictate that no one but the challenger is allowed in the building." The security guard said. "You can root for the challenger at the Pokemon Center, where they have screens available to watch.
"No in-person cheering? That's lame." Carmine said.
"Come oooon, what's the big idea?" Arven asked.
"So no one will distract the challenger or the Elite Four." The guard said.
"Huh… first time I'm hearing about this. I wonder if it was recently implemented by La Primera." Nemona wondered.
"It was always enforced, you just came alone."
Nemona sheepishly scratched her cheek. "Oh. Right."
"By the way… does Aless look a little chipper than usual?" Hiyoko asked.
"What makes you say that?" Mahiru asked.
"She seemed to be weighed down by something when I saw her, but now she seems like there was a weight off her shoulder."
"That's because she was bottling up her emotions." Hop said and explained what happened.
Hiyoko's eyes widened. "Her dog ran away and she tried to be a trooper for that long?! Oh that poor girl… I mean, on the one hand, I get it. You want to be strong, but on the other… that just rips you apart on the inside."
Hiyoko folded her arms. "Still, now I feel the urge to find that adorable Growlithe for her. Anything special going on with Aless after the league battle?"
"She challenged Gloria to a battle after she becomes champion rank." Nemona said. "Of course, I'm gonna be the appetizer~! …As much as that sounds wrong to me."
"Well, I suppose after the fight with Gloria, we can go find that Growlithe." Hiyoko chuckled.
Nemona nodded. "Right. Oh, and by the way… you owe me a battle, chica. You're champion rank so YOU'RE my rival too!"
"Name your place and I'll see if I can wipe the floor with you."
"Oh, you're on, Saionji!"
Mahiru chuckled. "Aww, making a new friend already~" She giggled with Perrin taking a picture of the duo.
Meanwhile, on the inside…
BGM: Champion Assessment Interview (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"Hey." Rika greeted.
"Hey. I was told there'd be some kind of interview before I battled you? Some security guard told me after I walked in."
"Indeed."
"Ahehehe… is it a little too late to get dressed into something more… business-like?"
"It's too late. Have a seat, princess."
Man, ruin the fun… Alessandra sat down.
"I, Rika, will be your interviewer. Let's get started with the first portion of the Champion Assessment. First, let me see how many gym badges you have." She looked on the computer. "Ah, excellent. You have all eight!"
Rika turned back to Alessandra. "Now, I'd like to ask you a few questions if you don't mind. Think carefully on your answers otherwise you may automatically fail depending on your answers."
"Whoa! That's a bit extreme!" Alessandra said in surprise. Definitely NOT like the Galarian tournaments…
"Now, how did you get here?"
"I walked? Well, more like ran here because I was a little too excited…"
Rika chuckled. "I don't blame ya. Now, please tell me the school that you're enrolled in."
"Nuranuva."
"Very good. Now, what do you intend to do if and when you become a Champion?"
"Oh, I dunno, probably… study some more, fight Mona a lot knowing her, find my treasure… stuff like that?"
"There was no wrong answer to that one, I was just genuinely curious." Rika chuckled. "Tell me… which of the eight Gyms gave you the most difficulty?"
Alessandra hummed, thinking about it thoughtfully. No doubt that Tulip managed to knock her around compared to everyone.
"Alfornada."
"And what was the name of the Gym Leader you faced there?"
"Tulip."
"And what type of Pokemon did she use?"
"Psychic."
"You really know your stuff." Rika smiled. "Now, one final question…" She narrowed her eyes sharply that made Alessandra shudder. "Where…"
Alessandra gulped.
End BGM
"...Did you find those fairy wings?! I've been trying to find something fairy-like for my niece and I can't find a single damn pair of them!"
"HUH?!"
Rika sighed. "It's cool if you don't remember it. I'm sure you've forgotten where you've got your clothes from considering you've been a fashionista all your life-"
"I got them at Kalos. Diantha made a bunch of them and put up a sale in Lumiose City-"
Rika's eyes sparkled. "Lumiose City, perfect!"
"However, they sold like hotcakes and I was lucky to snag one for myself when I was touring Kalos. Pretty sure she doesn't make them anymore."
Rika slumped. "Dammit…"
Alessandra waved her hands. "H-hey, it's okay! I'm sure you can find some fairy wings for Poppy! Just… not as trendy as Diantha…"
Rika let out a sigh. "I'm gonna have to file a complaint to Diantha… give her a piece of my mind." She grumbled before standing up. "I'd ask you if you like Pokemon, but that's definitely a given. But congratulations, you've completed the first part of the Champion Assessment. The second segment is what we call the Elite Test, and that's where you'll be fighting the Elite Four!"
"Yeah, I gathered that."
"Yeah… it's… not as subtle as it sounds." Rika mumbled. "But regardless! Follow me to the battle arena. Just a friendly heads up… the doors will be locked, so you won't be able to run to the Pokemon Center in-between battles. Hope you got a lot of Full Restores and Revives on you, because we're gonna kick your ass."
"Wouldn't have it any other way." Alessandra said. "...Just one question. Why aren't my friends allowed to cheer me on during these battles?"
"Honestly, I don't know what La Primera was thinking, but hell if I know. Distractions, my ass." Rika turned around toward the door and walked in with Alessandra following.
The duo walked into the main battle room where Alessandra looked around, seeing that it was a barren room with blue walls and a white floor.
"Uh… not much to go off of, is there?"
Rika walked over to a wall, taking off her glasses. "To the unassuming, yes… but…" She pressed a few buttons on a wall as a keypad appeared where she typed in her name, then hit the confirm button as the whole room changed into an office room with desks, a water cooler, and even a portrait of a selfie with Rika and Poppy on one of the desks.
BGM: Battle! Rika (Pokemon Masters EX)
"You're in my turf now, princess. It's time you got humbled!" Rika said. "Get ready, because ol' Rika is gonna come at ya!"
Alessandra said nothing, pulling out a Pokeball with a determined smirk on her face as they both sent out their first Pokemon.
"Quava Quav!"
"Trio Trio Trio!"
The Serious One - Rika
"I've been looking forward to battling you… let's see if you can keep up!"
Rio immediately charged at the Dugtrio and attempted to hit with Aqua Step, but Dugtrio went underground and then popped back up, immediately Sucker Punching him in retaliation. Rio turned around to face the Dugtrio as they immediately used Sandstorm.
"Quava!" Rio grunted as he used Wave Crash, but Dugtrio went underground and used Earthquake, tripping Rio up as Dugtrio came up and slammed into Rio, and then pelted him with Rock Slide.
"You gotta be quick in the Elite Four if you want to have a taste at fighting La Primera!"
Alessandra smirked. "I'm not too worried."
"Trio! Trio! Trio! Trio!" Dugtrio popped up all over the place to try and disorient Rio as he had an idea and started up Wave Crash, but then slammed his hands inside one of the holes that Dugtrio made, creating geysers all around.
Once the water settled, Dugtrio came up completely wet and annoyed as they used Rock Slide, but Rio backflipped and then jumped in with an Aqua Step to knock down the Dugtrio.
"Triooooooo…"
Rika smirked. "I've heard all about how you get creative in your battles… heh, this is gonna be fun." She said, recalling Dugtrio and then sending out Whiscash.
"Caaaaaaash!"
Alessandra pulled Rio away and then sent out Sherry, who immediately squared up against the Whiscash, though she squinted during the sandstorm.
"Cash Cash!" Whiscash set up some Stealth Rocks before shooting an Ice Beam directly at Sherry. Her eyes widened as she got out of the way and used Leaf Storm, striking the Whiscash while the sandstorm pelted Sherry.
"Tsaree…" Sherry grunted as she ran ahead and jumped with a Trop Kick, but Whiscash nailed her with a point blank Ice Beam. "REENAAAAA!" Sherry cried as she was knocked to the ground right as the sandstorm subsided.
"Whis… caaaaash!" Whiscash unleashed Muddy Water to try and finish Sherry off while also using Earth Power. Sherry got up and got hit with the brunt of the Muddy Water whilst dodging the Earth Power.
"REEENAAAAAAAAAA!" Sherry cried, unleashing another Leaf Storm and striking Whiscash as she ran forward as the Whiscash shook it off and went for another Ice Beam, where Sherry moved to the side as it barely grazed her hair as she jumped up and used Trop Kick, striking the Whiscash.
"Caaaaaaaaash!" Whiscash fell to the ground in defeat as Sherry fell on both knees after she landed.
Rika recalled Whiscash and then sent out Camerupt.
"Rupt!" Camerupt snorted as Sherry felt a shiver run up her spine, but luckily Alessandra switched her out with Rio again, who got pelted by Stealth Rock.
"Quava…" Rio brushed it off.
"Let's get a little wild!" Rika smirked, pulling off her glove to show off a ring with a Mega Stone and tapped it as her Camerupt Mega Evolved.
"CAMERRRRR!" Camerupt bellowed as his volcanoes erupted, spewing lava everywhere as he immediately went with Lava Plume, but Rio avoided the attack and charged in with an Aqua Step, quickly kicking the Camerupt in the face, to which Camerupt shot off a point blank Flash Cannon and blasted Rio away.
Camerupt would then unleash Earth Power, but Rio danced out of the way after he recovered and shot off with Wave Crash right as Camerupt Yawned right on him, causing him to get a bit sleepy before crashing into Camerupt to finish him off.
"Ruuuupt…" Camerupt collapsed as Rio fell on his back, conked out asleep as Alessandra tossed an Awakening on him right as Rika recalled Camerupt and sent out her next Pokemon.
"Torterr!"
"A Torterra?!"
Alessandra quickly recalled Rio and then sent out Wisp. "Ceru!" The Ceruledge was ready to battle… only to get skewered by the Stealth Rock. "Ledge…"
Wisp shook it off and ignited his flame blades as Torterra immediately stomped on the ground to create an Earthquake, but Wisp jumped over as he slashed through the Seed Bombs as Torterra started to run and used Steel Head right as Wisp used Bitter Blade, both clashing against each other as Wisp broke through the defenses and slashed down at Torterra, but he headbutted him away and used Earthquake again right as Wisp landed, the shockwave striking him.
"Ceruuuu!" Wisp grunted, falling on one knee as Torterra charged with Steel Head again, but Wisp ran ahead, engulfing himself in flames as they both slammed into each other, but Wisp's Flare Blitz pulled through and managed to make Torterra slide a few inches before collapsing. The sheer brute force of Flare Blitz was enough to make Wisp fall in battle as well.
"You did well, hon." Alessandra recalled Wisp as Rika recalled Torterra as the ladies sent out their next Pokemon.
"Dona Don!"
"Tsa-... reee!" Sherry winced at the Stealth Rock.
Donphan kicked back his front paw and lunged toward Sherry, her tusks glowing purple as Sherry's eyes widened as she jumped into the air to avoid the Poison Jab as she landed behind Donphan.
She turned around to face Sherry as she curled up into a ball and revved up, charging toward Sherry who quickly rolled out of the way as Donphan jumped up high into the air and uncurcled, coming in for a hard landing. Sherry narrowed her eyes, running toward Donphan and used High Jump Kick on instinct, slamming into Donphan as she flipped upside down and landed on her back side, unable to use Earthquake upon landing.
Sherry, meanwhile, came flying down and Trop Kicked Donphan's underbelly, knocking out the Donphan as she backflipped off of her. "Tsaree!"
"You read Donphan like an open book." Rika said as she pulled Donphan away and sent out Clodsire.
"Siiiiiire!"
"Hmm?" Alessandra scanned it.
"Clodsire, the Spiny Fish Pokemon and the evolved form of Paldean Wooper. When attacked, this Pokémon will retaliate by sticking thick spines out from its body. It's a risky move that puts everything on the line. It lives at the bottom of ponds and swamps. It will carry Wooper on its back and ferry them across water from one shore to the other."
"Aww, he's so cute~!"
Rika chuckled, pulling out a Tera Orb. "Haven't recalled the last time I've been put into a corner." She said with a glimmer in her eye as she started to Terastalized her Clodsire as Alessandra did the same thing with Sherry, with Clodsire having the Ground Tera Crown.
"TSAREEEE/CLOOOOOD!"
Clodsire proceeded to use Earthquake, but Sherry had already jumped up, having a sneaking suspicion that he would've used the move as she unleashed Leaf Storm, but Clodsire immediately used Protect as Sherry landed on the ground and used Trop Kick once the shield disappeared.
"Sire!" Clodsire shook it off and spat out a point blank Toxic as Sherry tried to avoid but got struck by the toxic liquid.
"Ree… na…" Sherry groaned as she stood strong but felt weak. She immediately used Leaf Storm again but Clodsire used Protect and then used Liquidation, but Sherry hid amongst the leaves, though compared to Hiyoko, her Terastilization gave away her position as Clodsire used Earthquake, only for Sherry to use High Jump Kick in retaliation, where Clodsire used Protect once more.
"Ree… NA!" Sherry unleashed Triple Axel after the shield faded away, proceeded to clobber Clodsire and knocked him out after the last kick.
"Siiiiiire…" Clodsire fell limp as the Tera Crystal faded away.
End BGM
Rika laughed, giving her a congratulatory clap. "You might just have what it takes to take on the Elite Four. Not many people get this far, but you might just make it."
Alessandra nodded as she knelt down, applying a few Full Restores and a Revive on Wisp as Rika turned around.
"Okay, squirt! You're up!" Rika called out as Poppy walked out with a smile.
Outside…
"Wait, a little kid is part of the Elite Four?! What the heck?!" Ruby said in surprise.
"I feel like this should be against some sort of child labor laws…" Nagisa muttered.
"She's no pushover though." Hiyoko said.
Back inside…
Poppy giggled. "Hey miss~! It seems like you beat up aunt Rika! I shall avenge her!"
Rika snorted. "Good luck with that… she ain't a pushover either."
"Neither am I~!" Poppy smiled as Rika walked over, pushing a few buttons as the room changed into a play room filled with stuffed animals, a ball pit and even a small bed.
"Soooo uh… you got anything in here that can restore my Tera Orb? I'm pretty much locked in." Alessandra said.
"Nope, we don't have that kinda thing. Congrats, you wasted it on me."
Alessandra sweatdropped. "Now you tell me?"
"Oh cheer up, missy! It's gonna be okay…"
BGM: Battle! Poppy (Pokemon Masters EX)
"...Especially after I clobber you to next week!"
Alessandra smirked. "Alright, squirt… you're asking for it!"
Small But Strong - Poppy
Both girls sent out their first Pokemon.
"Coppera!"
"Ceru!"
A Steel type? So she probably specializes in Steel Pokemon… good thing I decided to start with Wisp.
Copperajah threw its trunk in the air, sending out Stealth Rock as Wisp charged directly toward her while using Swords Dance. Copperajah stood on her hind legs and tried to crush Wisp with High Horsepower, but Wisp jumped to the side and used Bitter Blade to slash at the Copperajah, making it back up.
"Coppeeeeerrr!" Copperajah leapt up and proceeded to use Heavy Slam, but Wisp jumped away and then came in with Flare Blitz, striking the Pokemon as the massive elephant went down.
"Not bad~!" Poppy smiled, recalling Copperajah and then sent out her next Pokemon.
"Bastio!"
Who gave this kid a dang fossil?! Alessandra thought in surprise.
"You give the kid a fossil for her birthday and she starts going to town with the big guy." Rika said, sitting on her Clodsire as a cushion, not that her Clodsire minded one bit.
Alessandra switched Wisp out for Rio, who immediately got into his stance and danced his way over to Bastiodon, who immediately used Iron Defense and Reflect right as Rio used Aqua Step on her.
Bastiodon growled as she used Metal Burst, sending Rio away as she jumped up and used Body Press, but Rio backflipped and immediately jumped in with Close Combat. However, Bastiodon was still able to barely hold on after the attack as Bastiodon tried to use Metal Burst again, but was slow on the shot as Rio used Close Combat again to seal the deal.
"Bastiooooo…" Bastiodon groaned as he fell limp.
"Rest up, Basty!" Poppy recalled her and then sent out Bronzong.
"Bronzoooong!"
"Heh, I know how to deal with this one." Alessandra smirked, switching Rio out for Raffia.
"Umbre!" Raffia cried, and then got hit with the Stealth Rock. "Breon…" He winced.
"Aww, I was hoping you had a Bronzong too…"
"Why's that?"
"Because our Bronzong would play together in this battle~!"
Alessandra giggled. I think I have a pretty good idea what Yoko did~
Earlier…
"Zooooong!"
Both Bronzong spun into each other, Hiyoko's using Gyro Ball and Poppy's using Ice Spinner, both of them bouncing off of walls and continuing to hit each other.
Poppy laughed. "They're hitting each other like tops~! Best playdate ever!"
Hiyoko giggled. "Oh, never stop being so cute."
Back in the present…
Bronzong immediately slammed into the ground to use Earthquake, where Raffia got hit but brushed it off as he immediately used Shadow Ball. Bronzong responded with Ice Spinner to deflect the Shadow Ball and spun toward Raffia, but he jumped out of the way and used Dark Pulse, striking Bronzong as it stopped spinning.
"Zooong!" Bronzong flinched as Raffia charged up a Shadow Ball and sent it toward Bronzong, hitting it in the face to knock it down for the count.
"Aww!" Poppy pouted before smiling again as she recalled Bronzong and then sent out Magnezone, where Alessandra switched Raffia for Wisp.
"Magneeee!"
"Ceru!" Wisp said, ignoring getting impaled by Stealth Rock as he used Swords Dance.
Magnezone set up Light Screen as it proceeded to use Tri Attack, where Wisp avoided the moves and moved toward Magnezone, his blade arms igniting as Magnezone fired a Flash Cannon but Wisp batted it away and slashed through it with Bitter Blade.
"Magne…!" Magnezone grunted as it proceeded to use Discharge, striking Wisp and paralyzing him, but Wisp powered through and used Bitter Blade to finish it off. Wisp jumped toward Alessandra as she used a Paralyz Heal on him as he turned around and faced his next opponent, which was Corviknight.
"Corviiii!"
Wisp started up another Swords Dance as Corviknight unleashed Dual Wingbeat, but Wisp quickly ran out of the way and ran toward the giant metal bird. Corviknight used Iron Defense and flew toward Wisp with using Iron Head as Wisp used Bitter Blade, both moves clashing against one another, but in the end, Wisp parried him and slashed through Corviknight, knocking him to the ground in defeat.
"Wowie! Aunt Rika wasn't kidding!" Poppy said before switching out Corviknight. "But let's get really powerful!" She exclaimed, calling out Tinkaton.
"Tinkaaaa!"
Outside…
"Hey! She's got excellent taste!" Nora exclaimed.
"Tinka To!" Magnhild agreed.
Inside…
Poppy smiled, immediately pulling out her Tera Orb and Terastalized her Tinkaton, gaining the Steel Tera Jewel.
"TINKAAAAA!"
"Man, I wish we could Terastalize…" Alessandra sighed.
"Ceru." Wisp said to her, looking in her eyes as Alessandra nodded.
"Right. We don't need it now."
Wisp nodded back, charging up with another Swords Dance as he launched himself toward Tinkaton, where she pulled back her hammer and swung down hard with Gigaton Hammer, but Wisp crossed his blade arms and clashed against the Gigaton Hammer, falling on one knee but stayed determined.
"Ceru… Ru Ru… Ru… CERUUUUU!" Wisp successfully parried Gigaton Hammer, knocking Tinkaton's hammer back as he immediately slashed through Tinkaton, standing perfectly still behind her as Tinkaton's Tera crown evaporated and Tinkaton went down for the count.
End BGM
"Mnnngh…" Poppy recalled her Tinkaton.
"Not a bad fight, Pop~!" Alessandra smiled.
"Uwaaaaaaaah!" Poppy cried as she ran over to Rika.
"...Oh… did I overdo it?" Alessandra grimaced.
"Nah, she's always like this when she loses. She about did the same when that Kimono girl faced us." Rika reassured.
"Auntie Rika, I'm so sorry! I didn't take revenge on you!" She blubbered as she buried her face on Clodsire.
"Sire Sire." Clodsire patted her on the head while also getting a bit healed up from her tears.
"I'm pretty sure you mean "take revenge "for" me." Rika corrected.
"Y-you know what I mean!"
Rika ruffled up Poppy's hair. "Aren't you gonna call up the next one?"
"Oh!" Poppy snapped out of her sadness and turned toward the door. "It's your turn, Mister Larry!"
"LARRY?!" Alessandra yelled in shock as Larry walked in.
"Good grief, one battle after another? I barely got any rest after Hiyoko's battle." Larry mumbled as he looked at Alessandra's shocked expression, causing him to chuckle. "Yeah, this is my third job."
"Oh. Dude. You need like… ten holidays after this."
"Heh, wouldn't that be nice." Larry said as he adjusted his tie. "In gym battles, I go with Normal types… but here, I go with a different team."
"One sec." Alessandra quickly healed up her party while Rika changed the battle scenery, where it changed to the restaurant.
BGM: Battle! Larry (Pokemon Masters EX)
"Now, you may have had an easy time at the restaurant, but things will be different here."
"We'll see about that, big guy!" Alessandra said as Wisp was ready to go.
"Good. Now let's get started." Larry said, activating a Pokeball and throwing it.
"Tropiiii!"
In Desperate Need for a Nap - Larry
"Personally, I don't think you need to do another Swords Dance, but you do you, bud." Alessandra whispered.
"Ceru." Wisp nodded as Tropius unleashed Sunny Day before unleashing a quickly charged Solarbeam on Wisp, who quickly dodged while Alessandra stepped to the side to avoid accidentally getting hit by it as Wisp ran ahead, his blades igniting as Tropius used Air Slash, but Wisp slid underneath and used Bitter Blade to knock the Tropius out.
"Tropiiii…"
Larry pulled Tropius away and then sent out a Pom Pom Oricorio.
"Oricoooorrrr!"
Alessandra had an idea as she recalled Wisp and then sent out Sherry. Larry raised an eyebrow at the Grass type.
What is she up to? Larry wondered.
Oricorio proceeded to use Teeter Dance, but Sherry looked away to avoid it. Oricorio put her pom poms on her hips in annoyance and tried to do it again, only to get pelted by Leaf Storm. "Ori?" Oricorio wondered as she looked around disoriented before using Icy Wind to freeze the leaves, hoping to hit the Tsareena.
However, Sherry was behind her as she ran over and used Triple Axel. "Oriiiii!" Oricorio cried as Sherry continued to hit her repeatedly until spin kicking to knock Oricorio away. Oricorio weakly got up and used Air Slash as Sherry avoided the move, only to get hit in the knee. "Tsaree…!"
Oricorio smirked as she used Icy Wind again, but Sherry got up and dodged as she ran over to her as the Oricorio tried to do an electrical Revelation Dance, but the dance didn't stop her and was hit with another Triple Axel to finish her off.
"Oriiii…" Oricorio groaned as Larry pulled her away and then sent out an Altaria.
"Ooooh~!" Alessandra smiled, recalling Sherry as she sent out Athena.
"Dragooo!"
"Let's kick it up a notch." Larry said, proceeding to open his briefcase and tapped the Mega Stone within it, causing Altaria to Mega Evolve.
"TARIAAAAA!"
Athena swiftly started to use Rain Dance to make it rain inside and unleashed Thunder, striking Altaria. "Tarrr…" Altaria shook it off and unleashed Moonblast on Athena. The Dragonite quickly avoided the Moonblast as she flew over and used Iron Head, but Altaria flew up to avoid her and then shot off an Ice Beam.
"Dragoooo!" Athena cried as Altaria fired a Dragon Pulse but Athena managed to get away and used Hurricane, sending Altaria flying as Athena flew over and used Iron Head.
"Tariiiii!" Altaria cried before snapping out of it and using a point blank Moonblast, sending Athena crashing to the ground as the Moonblast exploded upon impacting the ground. However, Athena powered through and stood up, holding on to her arm and glared at Altaria who started to use Ice Beam, but Athena used Thunder to strike the Mega Altaria.
"TAAAARRRR!" Altaria wailed as the Dragonite flew up and slammed into her with Iron Head, knocking her to the ground as Athena fell on her butt after she landed. Alessandra quickly used a Full Restore to perk her back up as Larry recalled the Altaria.
"Hmmm… I might be in trouble here." Larry said as he sent out Staraptor after pulling away Altaria.
"Staraptor!" Staraptor cried, immediately flying in with Brave Bird and slammed into Athena, but she caught him with her hands and pushed him back as best as she could and then immediately struck Staraptor down with Thunder, which didn't really help his case considering Brave Bird did some recoil on him.
Larry recalled Staraptor and then sent out Braviary, as he flew and used Crush Claw on her, but was sucked away from a Hurricane and Thunder combo to knock the hawk to the ground in defeat.
"Yup, this seems about right…" Larry said as he recalled Braviary and then sent out Flamigo.
"Flamiga!" Flamigo cried as Alessandra scanned him.
"Flamigo, the Synchronize Pokemon. This Pokémon apparently ties the base of its neck into a knot so that energy stored in its belly does not escape from its beak. Thanks to a behavior of theirs known as "synchronizing," an entire flock of these Pokémon can attack simultaneously in perfect harmony."
"Cool!" Alessandra put it away right as Larry finished Terastalizing Flamigo with the Flying Tera Jewel.
"Pffft… are… are those balloons for the Flying Tera Jewel?" Alessandra snickered.
"Yes."
"Oh, that's adorable!" Alessandra giggled.
Flamigo let out a cry and used Brave Bird on Athena, slamming into the Dragonite as she pushed back but was knocked back as Flamigo landed on the ground and went in with Close Combat, kicking the Dragonite relentlessly as Athena let out a growl and backhanded Flamigo away and then proceeded to use Thunder right when the rain stopped, striking the Flamigo.
"FLAMIGAAAAA!" Flamigo cried as he staggered, trying to stay up… but got hit with Iron Head to get knocked out. "Migoooo…"
End BGM
"Yup… that's a wrap…" Larry nodded. "Good job."
Larry turned toward the door as Alessandra healed up her Pokemon. "Hey, Hassel. You're next."
The door didn't open.
"Hassel. Come out, you old timer…"
"Oh, for Arceus'... YO, HASSEL! YOU'RE UP!" Rika called out as Hassel walked in.
"I see that I am the last one standing. Very well. I hope you are ready, young Aless."
"Oh, I'm definitely ready."
BGM: Battle! Elite Four (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
Rika pressed a few buttons as the room changed into Hassel's art room, with dragon sculptures surrounding the battle arena, lighting up with blue flames.
"Good. Because this is your final test before you take on La Primera!" Hassel declared as Alessandra felt a wave of confidence wash through her, feeling her friends cheering her on.
…Strangely enough, she felt like there were more people rooting for her and she had no idea why.
"Bring it, you old timer." Alessandra said, both of them activating their Pokeballs and sending out their Pokemon.
"Dura!"
"Quaquava!"
The Dragon Master - Hassel
Duraludon quickly set up with Stealth Rock while Rio ran ahead and used Aqua Step, striking her in the chest, but Duraludon did not get pushed back. Duraludon responded by hitting him with a point blank Thunderbolt.
"Quava!" Rio cried as he was knocked down. He sprang back up right after as Alessandra grimaced at the Thunderbolt, but replaced it with a smirk as Rio jumped in with Close Combat, but Duraludon jumped up and used Body Press, but Rio fought back with Close Combat, but the Body Press prevailed as Duraludon hopped off.
Rio got up, wincing and letting out a growl as Duraludon charged up a Thunderbolt right as Alessandra used a Full Restore to perk him up despite getting hit by the Thunderbolt.
"Duraaaa!" Duraludon unleashed Draco Meteor, but Rio got in a stance and used Close Combat on the meteors, sending them back and hitting Duraludon, knocking her down for the count.
"Not bad!" Hassel said, recalling his Duraludon and then sent out Noivern next.
"Noiv!" Noivern cried as Alessandra switched Rio out for Sherry.
"Tsareee!" Sherry said as she got stabbed by the Stealth Rock but brushed it aside.
"Noiiii!" Noivern unleashed Boomburst from her ears, causing Sherry to cover her ears as Noivern then proceeded to use Air Slash on the distracted Tsareena. Sherry was immediately hit but quickly recovered as she responded with Leaf Storm.
"Vern?" Noivern wondered as the leaves hit him but used Air Slash to cut through the leaves, only to hit nothing as Sherry swooped in and used Triple Axel on Noivern.
"Impressive, an ice type move taught on a Grass type. You sure know how to keep someone on their toes!" Hassel complimented as Sherry axe kicked Noivern to the ground to finish him off.
"Veeeern…" Noivern groaned with swirly eyes as Hassel recalled her and then sent out Haxorus.
"Haxoooorrrr!"
"Tsaree!"
Both Pokemon lunged at each other as Sherry used Trop Kick on his stomach as Haxorus responded with a Breaking Swipe, knocking her away and then used Rock Tomb, but Sherry backflipped to avoid the attack as she went for a Leaf Storm, hiding amongst the leaves as Haxorus looked around, and then shifted his eyes and dodged a Triple Axel ambush from behind, then charged in with an Iron Head to knock Sherry back.
"Ts-Tsaree…" Sherry grunted as Haxorus used Breaking Swipe again, but Sherry quickly avoided it and then proceeded to use High Jump Kick at close range, striking Haxorus as he backed away and then grabbed Sherry, slamming her to the ground and attempting to use Crunch but Sherry used Leaf Storm to make him eat leaves.
"Hax! Haxor!" Haxorus coughed, letting go of Tsareena as she got up and used Triple Axel to knock him back a few feet, but before she could connect the last hit, he hit her with a Breaking Swipe, both moves connecting as Haxorus fell to the ground as Sherry fell on her hands and knees, struggling to get up and pushing herself up right as Hassel sent out his next Pokemon.
"Tsaree…?!"
"Dragallll!" Dragalge threw a Sludge Bomb but Alessandra swiftly pulled her away in time as she sent out Tut.
"Espa Paaa!" Tut cried, ignoring the Stealth Rock as Dragalge used Dragon Pulse on him where Tut avoided the attack and went in with Lumina Crash, slamming into Dragalge as he was knocked away from the attack before he went with Dragon Pulse, but Tut used Dazzling Gleam as a counter move to snuff out the Dragon Pulse as Tut then used Psychic to pick up Dragalge and slammed him to the ground and sent some psychic energy to finish off the Dragalge.
Hassel pulled Dragalge away and then sent out his own Dragonite, to which Alessandra's eyes sparkled and then sent out Athena.
"You have a Dragonite of your own? You have excellent taste!" Hassel smiled as Athena used Rain Dance before both dragons flew toward each other, Hassel's using Dragon Rush and Athena using Iron Head, both moves clashing together as they were knocked back as both Pokemon flew up into the air.
Hassel's Dragonite used Stone Edge but Athena quickly avoided it and used Hurricane to send Hassel's Dragonite away, where his Dragonite recovered and used Dragon Rush, powering through a Thunder attack and slammed into Athena, sending her crashing to the ground as Hassel's Dragonite proceeded to use Stone Edge on top of her.
However, Athena used her tail to bat away the stones and flew back up, both Dragons using Dragon Rush/Iron Head to slam into each other, and despite Athena using Thunder to hurt Hassel's Dragonite, the Dragon Rush pulled through and struck Athena, causing her to crash into the ground and knocking her out.
Hassel's Dragonite landed on the ground, and despite being battered, he smirked and nodded in respect to his fellow Dragonite as Alessandra recalled Athena and sent Sherry back out.
"Tsa-Tsareee…" Sherry groaned as she got struck by the Stealth Rock that nearly did her in, but was determined to see things through. "Reena Na!"
"Drago." Dragonite unleashed Extreme Speed on her but Tsareena stood proudly and batted him away with a Trop Kick, knocking him away as he used Earthquake, causing Tsareena to stumble but Sherry determinedly stood strong as Dragonite flew over and used Dragon Rush as Sherry ran over and used Triple Axel, both moves connecting as they both landed on the ground, their backs opposite of each other… and once the rain stopped, Sherry fell to the ground.
"Drago Go…" Dragonite smirked… before collapsing as well.
"A double knock out… truly poetic!" Hassel said, trying to fight his tears as both of them recalled their Pokemon as Alessandra sent out Tut once more while Hassel called out Baxcalibur.
Hassel wasted no time into Terastallizing his Baxcalibur.
"Espa?" Tut turned to Alessandra.
"Sorry bud. Tera orb's outta juice… and they won't let me go to a Pokemon Center to recharge it."
"Espa Pa…" Tut said in surprise before turning back to Baxcalibur, flapping his wings proudly. "Espa!"
"You're right. We don't need it here!" Alessandra exclaimed. "You know what to do, bud!"
Baxcalibur ran toward Tut and flipped over, using Glaive Rush right as Tut used Lumina Crash, both moves hitting each other as Tut was knocked back and nearly knocked out from the move… but Tut recovered and immediately used Dazzling Gleam on him right before Baxcalibur could get up.
"BAXCAAAAAAAAALLLLL!" Baxcalibur cried as he immediately went down for the count, his Tera Jewel fading.
End BGM
"Phew…." Alessandra breathed a sigh of relief.
Outside…
"That's what I'm talking about! You go, girl!" Hop cheered.
"That's how you do it!" Nora exclaimed.
"She's definitely come a long way." Sonia said as Nemona felt pure excitement swell within her, getting giddier by the second.
Inside…
"Holy moly… you actually did it!" Rika exclaimed.
"You did it! You are such a strong student… it… it… moves me to give you an A Plus on this battle! B-B-Buh-hu-hu-hu-huuuuuu!"
"Oh, come off it, you old coot…" Rika facepalmed.
"Aww, don't cry, Grandpa Hassel! Here's a hug~!" Poppy hugged him as Larry let out an exhausted sigh.
"Welp, you have the boss lady now." Larry said.
"Yeah." Alessandra nodded, finishing healing and reviving her fallen Pokemon as she clenched her fists.
It was time to finish this.
"I'm coming for you, Glori."
"Oh, let's do Chaos Mode with this one. No trips to the Pokemon center, lock Aless in, have half of the Elite Four Mega Evolve and use their Indigo Disk teams if possible. Yeah, this is good! *realizes I accidentally locked Aless out of Terastalizing the moment I had her Terastallize against Rika* Oh. Uh... I meant to do that!"
Ibuki: *snickers* Suuuuure~
By the way, how's Wade holding up after we managed to get him back to his adult self?
Ibuk: Well-...
Deadpool: *rocking back and forth* Why'd you have to do off-screen bullshit on ME?! I never felt so violated! *sobs uncontrollably*
Ibuki: He'll be fine. He still has chimichangas for life.
Yeah, he'll survive. Anyway, I also split this chapter up into two parts mostly because fighting Hiyoko, the Elite Four, Geeta, Nemona and a certain Scottish woman just sounded ridiculously overkill, so I thought I'd split it in half and save the second half after the Elite Four were finished.