Broken Dreams

by ThunderReborn

Ichigo finally killed Aizen. But, from that he gained two new spirits, two big secrets and 1 lonely time. Rated T for language. This does contain some anime crossovers and minor cameos. PM if you have a possible idea to incorporate for potential visits or cameos. Current schedule: one chapter every two months, odd numbered months.

66. Chapter 66 (Arc 13)

Hello, everyone. ThunderReborn from 2025. This chapter was originally edited by Darklord331. Finally, in April 2025, this chapter was edited again by my current beta reader, Waroyer123. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the story.

Hello everyone.

Please look at the Broken Dreams Stat Sheet for the current list of Ichigo's Pokémon. The bolded names are those featured in his chapter.

The following is a fan-based parody.

Bleach is owned by Tite Kubo, TV Tokyo, Viz Media, and Studio Pierrot.

Pokémon is owned by Nintendo, The Pokémon Company, and Game Freak.

Please support the official release.

"Hello." – Normal talking.

"Hello." – Ichigo's thoughts.

"Hello." – Zanpakutō speaking.

"Hello." – Zanpakutō thoughts.

Chapter 66:

Ichigo let out a yawn as he sat in the stands, beside Sabrina. They were both waiting for the Opening Ceremony of the Indigo Plateau Conference to begin. Suddenly, the orchestra started playing their instruments. Everyone turned to see someone running into the stadium, holding a torch. The runner slowed down, jogged up the stairs, and lit the ceremonial fire. The crowd erupted into applause. The clapping subsided as Delia Ketchum stood up.

"Good evening, everyone," she began. "Congratulations to everyone for earning eight gym badges. Due to the lower number of trainers this year, we'll have three preliminary rounds tomorrow, followed by a day of rest. After that, we will begin the finals. The winner of the Conference will have the opportunity to challenge our Elite Four!" Delia shouted. The screens changed to reveal the Elite Four members: Lorelei, Bruno, Karen, Agatha, and Lance. The crowd applauded once more.

"Hm... I didn't expect Karen to be there," Ichigo thought.

The screen returned to Delia.

"We will begin the preliminary rounds tomorrow. Please check the screens in the Pokémon Center lobby, Stadium lobby, or your hotel lobby for more details," she said. "Once again, good luck, and may the odds be in your favor!"

Ichigo and Sabrina teleported out of the stadium to avoid the large crowds, making their way to the hotel lobby.

"Who are you up against?" Sabrina asked as Ichigo glanced at the screen.

"I'm up against a girl named Mandi," Ichigo replied. They walked back to their room and went to bed.

Scene Change: Battlefield One

Ichigo and Mandi stood in the center of Battlefield One. Mandi, a young girl who had just turned 15, was ready for battle. The referee approached.

"The winner of the coin toss will get to choose who sends out their Pokémon first and also gets the first move," the referee announced.

"You can call it, Mandi," Ichigo said.

"Sure. Heads," she replied.

"I'll go with tails," Ichigo said. The referee nodded and flipped the coin. It landed on the ground.

"Tails," the referee announced.

"Mandi will go first," Ichigo said.

"Very well. Trainers, please return to your positions," the referee instructed. Both trainers walked back to their spots.

"The battle between Trainer Ichigo and Trainer Mandi will begin. This will be a three-on-three match, and each trainer is allowed two substitutions. Trainer Mandi will be the first to send out her Pokémon and make the first move."

"Go, Exeggutor!" Mandi called.

"Come, Magmortar," Ichigo said, sending out his Magmortar.

"Return," Mandi said, recalling her Exeggutor. "Go, Kingdra," she called. The referee glanced at Ichigo.

"I will not substitute," Ichigo said. The referee nodded.

"You can make the first move."

"Magmortar, use Sunny Day," Ichigo ordered.

Magmortar's eyes began to glow as a white ball formed in front of her arms. She fired it into the air, and suddenly the sunlight grew brighter. The audience could feel the temperature rising.

"Dammit, I should have made sure Kingdra knew Rain Dance," Mandi thought.

"Kingdra, use Dragon Breath!" she ordered.

Kingdra released a blast of draconic energy toward Magmortar.

"Solar Beam!" Ichigo commanded.

Magmortar fired a white beam toward Kingdra. The two attacks collided in a massive explosion.

"Dragon Breath!" Mandi shouted again. Kingdra fired another blast, piercing through the smoke, but Magmortar had disappeared.

"Where did it go?" Mandi thought.

"Now!" Ichigo shouted. The ground beneath Kingdra rumbled as a blast of fire shot up, striking Kingdra and knocking it to the ground. Magmortar emerged from the hole in the ground.

"Kingdra, get up!" Mandi ordered.

"Solar Beam," Ichigo called again.

Magmortar fired another Solar Beam at the fallen Kingdra. Kingdra, too slow to react, took the full brunt of the attack. The dust cleared to reveal the unconscious Kingdra.

"The battle is over. The winner is Magmortar," the referee announced. Mandi recalled her Kingdra.

"Go, Exeggutor," she said. The referee glanced back at Ichigo.

Ichigo recalled Magmortar and sent out Gengar.

"Dammit," Mandi thought as she saw Gengar's maniacal grin.

"Return," Mandi said, recalling her Exeggutor. "Go, Crobat," she called. The referee glanced back at Ichigo, awaiting his decision to substitute.

"Go, Eelektross," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Eelektross and Crobat will begin," the referee announced. "Trainer Ichigo has one more substitution available. Trainer Mandi will have the first move."

"Crobat, use Cross Poison!" Mandi ordered.

Crobat's wings glowed purple as it darted toward Eelektross.

"Eelektross, use Wild Charge," Ichigo commanded.

Electricity crackled around Eelektross's body as she charged at Crobat. The two Pokémon collided, knocking each other back. Eelektross floated back to her position, while Crobat swerved near Mandi, trying to recover.

"Eelektross, use Thunderbolt!" Ichigo shouted.

Eelektross sent a powerful bolt of lightning at Crobat.

"Dodge it!" Mandi commanded.

Crobat swerved to the side, narrowly avoiding the attack.

"Don't let up!" Ichigo ordered.

Eelektross fired another Thunderbolt. This time, Crobat swerved, but the Thunderbolt changed direction mid-flight, striking Crobat in the back. Crobat crashed to the ground.

"How?" Mandi gasped.

"There are residual electric ions scattered throughout the field. Eelektross used them to guide the Thunderbolt toward Crobat, even after it dodged," Ichigo explained.

"Crobat, get up!" Mandi cried.

"Eelektross, end it with another Wild Charge!" Ichigo commanded.

Yellow electricity surrounded Eelektross as she slammed into Crobat once more. As the attack ended, Crobat lay unconscious on the ground.

"The battle is over. The winner is Eelektross," the referee announced. Mandi recalled her Crobat and pulled out her last Poké Ball, holding Exeggutor.

"Ichigo has a Gengar, which can easily defeat my Exeggutor," Mandi thought, realizing the inevitable. She sighed.

"I surrender," she declared.

"Are you sure?" the referee asked.

"I am," she confirmed. The referee nodded.

"The match is over. The winner is Challenger Ichigo," the referee declared. Ichigo silently recalled his Eelektross and exited the battlefield. He ignored the stares as he made his way to the Pokémon Center, where Sabrina was waiting for him.

"Good job on the match," she said.

"Thanks," Ichigo replied. They walked to the front desk.

"Hello. Here to drop off your Pokémon?" Nurse Joy asked.

"I am," Ichigo replied as he handed over Magmortar's, Eelektross's, and Gengar's Poké Balls to Nurse Joy. She took them and handed them to a nearby Chansey, who took them to the back to be healed.

"When will I know who my next challenger is?" Ichigo asked.

"The final match in this round will end in a few hours. You should have enough time to grab lunch before the next round starts," Nurse Joy said. The Chansey returned to the counter with Ichigo's Poké Balls. Nurse Joy handed them back to Ichigo.

"Thank you," he said as they returned to their hotel room. Ichigo ordered room service for both of them. The hotel had specially made Poke Chow available. Ichigo and Sabrina turned on the TV, which was broadcasting a live stream of the battlefield Ichigo had just fought on. To the side of the screen was live commentary from a retired Ace Trainer and an Elite Trainer.

The doorbell rang, and Ichigo opened the door to bring in the room service. He placed the special Poke Food on the ground and released Magmortar, Eelektross, and Gengar.

"Good job in the match earlier. This is your reward," Ichigo said, complimenting them. Magmortar and Eelektross started eating, while Gengar glanced at Ichigo with slight confusion.

"I know you didn't participate much during the match, but just seeing you out there made your opponent scared," Ichigo said. Gengar nodded before joining the others for the meal. Ichigo and Sabrina ate their lunch while watching the TV. Afterward, Ichigo walked down to the lobby and glanced at the display screen, looking for his next opponent.

"Found him," Ichigo thought. He then returned to his room and researched his next opponent.

Scene Change: Battlefield

Ichigo stood on the battlefield, waiting for his opponent to arrive.

"Sorry, I'm late," a voice called. Everyone looked as a trainer ran in. He appeared older than Mandi, maybe in his early 20s.

"His face matches his profile," Ichigo thought.

"Trainer Pete Pebbleman has entered the battlefield," the referee said. "The winner of the coin toss will choose who sends out their Pokémon first and also make the first move."

"Heads," Ichigo called.

The referee nodded and flipped the coin. It landed on the ground.

"Tails," the referee announced.

"Ichigo will go first," Pete said.

"Very well. Trainers, please return to your positions," the referee said. Ichigo and Pete walked back to their spots.

"The battle between Trainer Ichigo and Trainer Pete will begin. This will be a three-on-three match. Each trainer is allowed two substitutions. Trainer Ichigo will send out his Pokémon first and make the first move."

"Go, Milotic," Ichigo said.

"Go, Vileplume," Pete replied. The referee glanced at Ichigo, wondering if he would substitute.

"I'll stay with Milotic," Ichigo said. The referee nodded.

"The battle between Milotic and Vileplume will begin!"

"Milotic, use Ice Beam," Ichigo ordered.

Milotic opened her mouth and fired an icy beam.

"Vileplume, dodge it!" Pete ordered. Vileplume jumped to the side, narrowly avoiding the beam. Ice began to form from the impact of the blast.

"Vileplume, use Energy Ball!" Pete commanded. A ball of green energy formed in front of Vileplume.

"Milotic, bat the Energy Ball away with Iron Tail," Ichigo instructed. Milotic's tail glowed silver as she swung it and smacked the Energy Ball, sending it back toward Vileplume. The attack slammed into Vileplume.

"Follow up with Ice Beam!" Ichigo ordered. Milotic opened her mouth again and fired another icy beam. Vileplume was encased in ice.

"Vileplume, try to escape!" Pete ordered, but Vileplume stood frozen.

"Milotic, use Iron Tail," Ichigo said. Milotic's tail glowed silver once more. She swung it at the frozen Vileplume, breaking the ice and sending Vileplume crashing into the nearby wall. Vileplume collapsed on the ground, unconscious.

"The winner is Milotic," the referee declared. "Challenger Pete, select your next Pokémon."

Pete recalled his Vileplume and thought, "Should I send out Cloyster or Arcanine? Cloyster would do neutral damage to Milotic. Arcanine would be able to use Thunder Fang and Wild Charge, but I'd risk getting hit by its water-type attacks."

"Go, Cloyster," Pete said.

"Return," Ichigo said as he recalled his Milotic. "Go, Electivire," Ichigo replied.

"Dammit," Pete thought. The referee glanced at Pete.

"I will remain with Cloyster," Pete said. The referee nodded.

"The match between Electivire and Cloyster will begin. Pete has the first move."

"Cloyster, use Toxic Spikes," Pete ordered. Cloyster spewed purple-colored spikes across the battlefield.

"Electivire, use Plasma Fists (1)," Ichigo ordered. Light blue electricity surrounded Electivire's fists as she charged toward Cloyster.

"Quickly, use Protect!" Pete shouted. A light green dome appeared around Cloyster, blocking Electivire's punches. Bolts of light blue electricity ricocheted around the barrier.

"Continue punching that barrier," Ichigo ordered.

"Vier!" Electivire yelled as she relentlessly struck the barrier with Plasma Fists.

"Cloyster hold on!" Pete ordered. Cloyster struggled to maintain the Protect shield.

Suddenly, a loud crack echoed through the air as a large dent formed in the barrier. Before anyone could react, Electivire punched the dent, breaking the barrier, and landed a direct punch to Cloyster's unprotected face. The impact stunned Cloyster.

"Cloyster! Do something!" Pete yelled, but Cloyster was too slow compared to Electivire. Electivire continued to strike Cloyster, preventing it from attacking. Eventually, she stopped and took a few steps back.

The referee glanced at Cloyster.

"The Cloyster is unable to battle. The winner is Electivire," the referee declared. Pete recalled his Cloyster.

"Go Arcanine," Pete said.

Ichigo recalled his Electivire.

"Go Tyranitar," Ichigo said. Tyranitar let out a loud roar as she glared at Arcanine.

"Ichigo has the first move," the referee said. "Let the match begin."

"Tyranitar, use Stone Edge," Ichigo ordered. Tyranitar slammed her hands on the ground, causing light blue rock pillars to rise from the earth toward Arcanine.

"Arcanine, dodge it and use Flamethrower!" Pete ordered. Arcanine leaped into the air, narrowly avoiding the Stone Edge. It then released a stream of flames.

"Sandstorm," Ichigo commanded. Tyranitar stomped the ground, and a swirling sandstorm began to spin around her. Arcanine's Flamethrower was consumed by the Sandstorm. The Sandstorm spread across the battlefield. Arcanine shielded its face, trying to protect itself from the swirling sand.

"Stone Edge," Ichigo ordered again. Tyranitar slammed her hands on the ground once more, and the light blue rock pillars shot out toward Arcanine. This time, Arcanine was unable to dodge the attack and was hit by the rock pillars.

"Arcanine!" Pete shouted.

"Tyranitar end this with Crunch," Ichigo ordered. Tyranitar's mouth glowed with dark energy as she bit down on Arcanine.

"ARR!" Arcanine howled in pain.

"Arcanine get out of there!" Pete yelled. Arcanine fired a blast of fire at Tyranitar, trying to push her away. Tyranitar ignored the attack and clamped down harder. Soon, Arcanine went limp. Tyranitar spat out the unconscious Pokémon. The Sandstorm subsided.

"The match is over. The winner is Challenger Ichigo," the referee declared. Tyranitar let out another loud roar as Ichigo recalled her. Ichigo walked off the battlefield and was approached by a few reporters, eager to get an interview.

"No interview until I win," Ichigo said. The reporters quickly jotted down his comment. Ichigo took the opportunity to leave while they were distracted.

Ichigo arrived at the Pokémon Center, where all the trainers subtly glared at him.

"Looks like they're all feeling threatened by your performance," Sabrina thought as she entered the Pokémon Center behind him.

"Meh," Ichigo replied, handing his Pokémon to Nurse Joy. "Want to go to a restaurant or get room service?"

"Let's just get room service. That way, you have time to research your last opponent for the day," Sabrina reasoned.

"Sure," Ichigo replied as he grabbed his Poké Balls.

"Mr. Ichigo," Nurse Joy interjected.

"Yes?" Ichigo asked.

"They just updated the roster," she said. Ichigo glanced at the screen and spotted his next opponent.

"Thank you," Ichigo said as they returned to their hotel room for dinner.

Scene Change: Battlefield

Ichigo stood in the middle of the battlefield, the referee by his side, facing an older girl.

"Winner of the coin toss will get to pick who sends out their Pokémon first and also make the first move," the referee announced.

"Heads," Ichigo called. The referee nodded and flipped the coin. It landed on the ground.

"Heads," the referee announced.

"Jeanette will go first," Ichigo said.

"Very well. Trainers, please return to your positions," the referee instructed. Ichigo and Jeanette returned to their spots.

"The battle between Trainer Ichigo and Trainer Jeanette will begin. This will be a three-on-three match. Each trainer is allowed two substitutions. Trainer Jeanette will send out her Pokémon first and make the first move."

"Go Ursaring," Jeanette said.

"Go Aegislash," Ichigo replied. Aegislash appeared in her Shield Forme.

"Looks like learning Shadow Claw is going to help," Jeanette thought.

The referee glanced at Jeanette.

"I'll stay with Ursaring," Jeanette said.

"Very well," the referee said. "Jeanette will have the first move."

"Ursaring use Shadow Claw!" Jeanette ordered. Ursaring's claws glowed with ghostly energy as it charged toward Aegislash.

"King's Shield," Ichigo countered. Light blue hexagons began to form in front of Aegislash, creating a shield. Ursaring slashed at the barrier, but it held strong. Suddenly, Ursaring began to glow light blue, suffering from the aftereffects of King's Shield.

"Counter with Sacred Sword," Ichigo ordered. Aegislash shifted to her Blade Forme. The large central blade of Aegislash glowed blue as she slashed at Ursaring.

"Ursaring, dodge it!" Jeanette ordered. Ursaring was too slow to fully avoid the attack, and Sacred Sword grazed its arm.

"Shadow Claw again!" Jeanette shouted. Ursaring attacked with its ghostly claws.

"Night Slash," Ichigo called. Aegislash blocked the attack with her blade, now covered in dark energy. She overpowered Ursaring's Shadow Claw, forcing the bear Pokémon to the ground.

"Sacred Sword!" Ichigo commanded. Aegislash's blade glowed blue again as she dove toward Ursaring.

"Ursaring!" Jeanette called. Ursaring rolled away, barely avoiding the attack. Aegislash's sword stabbed into the ground, and she struggled to free herself.

"Shadow Claw!" Jeanette ordered again. Ursaring charged toward the stuck Aegislash.

"Wait for it," Ichigo thought as Ursaring got closer to Aegislash. "Now."

"Close Combat!" Ichigo shouted. Before Ursaring could react, Aegislash delivered a punch to Ursaring's gut, pushing it back. Aegislash followed up, landing several more strikes in a flurry of punches, until she delivered a final blow, sending Ursaring rolling toward Jeanette. Ursaring stopped and lay still, unconscious.

"Return," Jeanette recalled her unconscious Ursaring. "Go, Heracross," she said.

"Return," Ichigo recalled Aegislash. "Go, Salazzle," Ichigo said.

"Damn a Fire-type," Jeanette thought as she recalled her Heracross.

"Go Sudowoodo," she said.

"Hm... a Rock-type," Ichigo thought as he recalled Salazzle.

"Go Bisharp," Ichigo said.

"Excellent. Sudowoodo still remembers Hammer Arm," Jeanette thought.

"I'll stay," she replied.

"The match between Bisharp and Sudowoodo will begin, with Ichigo having the first move," the referee announced.

"Metal Claw," Ichigo ordered. Bisharp's blade arms glowed silver as she charged toward Sudowoodo.

"Hammer Arm," Jeanette responded. Sudowoodo's arms glowed white as it swung them toward Bisharp. The two attacks collided with a crash. The recoil forced both Pokémon back.

"Now this is interesting," Ichigo thought.

"Bisharp. Iron Head and Psycho Cut," Ichigo commanded. Bisharp's head glowed silvery white while her arms glowed purple. She charged toward Sudowoodo.

"Shit. That's smart," Jeanette thought. "Psycho Cut would be able to counter Hammer Arm, allowing Bisharp to use Iron Head."

"Sudowoodo dodge!" she ordered. Sudowoodo ran, trying to avoid Bisharp, but despite its efforts, Bisharp quickly closed the distance and rammed her head into Sudowoodo's chest.

"Woodo!" Sudowoodo cried as it crashed face-first onto the ground.

"Metal Claw," Ichigo ordered. The purple energy around Bisharp's arms faded and was replaced with a silvery white glow. She climbed onto Sudowoodo's back and began to attack.

"Sudowoodo get up!" Jeanette yelled. Sudowoodo tried to push itself up, but Bisharp struck its arms, forcing them back down.

"Hammer Arm on the ground," Jeanette ordered. Sudowoodo broke the ground beneath it, creating enough space to swing at Bisharp's face. Bisharp was knocked off Sudowoodo. Both Pokémon stood back up, glaring at each other.

"Sudowoodo has taken too many hits from Bisharp," Jeanette thought.

"Bisharp is too exhausted to fight much longer," Ichigo thought.

"Sudowoodo one more Hammer Arm!" Jeanette yelled.

"Woodo!" Sudowoodo cried as it charged at Bisharp.

"Wait for it…" Ichigo said. Bisharp nodded in understanding, realizing Ichigo's plan. Sudowoodo approached the tired Bisharp and raised its arms to strike.

"Bullet Punch!" Ichigo commanded. Bisharp delivered a sudden punch to Sudowoodo's face, knocking it to the ground.

"Sudowoodo is unable to battle. The winner is Bisharp," the referee announced. Ichigo and Jeanette recalled their respective Pokémon. Jeanette sent out her Heracross, while Ichigo sent out his Salazzle.

"The match between Heracross and Salazzle will begin. Jeanette will have the first move."

"Heracross use Bulk Up," Jeanette ordered. Heracross flexed its muscles, which began to swell.

"Salazzle use Fire Spin," Ichigo said. Salazzle opened her mouth and fired a large stream of fire. Before Heracross could react, the flames swirled around it, trapping Heracross in a vortex of fire.

"Shit," Jeanette thought.

"Heracross get in close for Close Combat!" she ordered. Heracross flapped its wings and flew toward Salazzle.

"Flamethrower," Ichigo said. Salazzle fired another stream of flames. Heracross dove to the side, avoiding the attack. Salazzle pursued, continuing to use Flamethrower. Heracross continued to dodge, but as Heracross got within range, its fist glowed with energy.

Salazzle suddenly jumped to the side, dodging Heracross. Heracross's eyes widened as it crashed into the flaming vortex.

"HERA!" Heracross cried out in pain.

"End it with Flamethrower," Ichigo ordered. Salazzle fired one final Flamethrower at Heracross.

"HERA!" Heracross cried out even louder.

"Enough," Ichigo said. Salazzle stopped her attack. She walked over to Heracross's limp body and dragged it out of the fire. Heracross's burnt, unconscious form was clearly visible.

"The battle is over. The winner is Salazzle. The winner of this match and moving on to the Semi-finals is Ichigo Kurosaki!" the referee declared. Ichigo recalled Salazzle and left the battlefield. He met up with Sabrina, and they walked toward the Pokémon Center. As they walked, they could hear people talking about the match.

At the Pokémon Center, Ichigo handed Nurse Joy his Salazzle, Aegislash, and Bisharp.

"Have they announced who I'll be facing in the Semi-finals?" Ichigo asked.

"They'll announce it when all four of you are at the stadium," Nurse Joy replied as she returned his fully healed Pokémon.

"Thank you and good night," Ichigo and Sabrina said.

"Same to you," Nurse Joy replied. Ichigo and Sabrina walked back to their hotel room and went to sleep.

Scene Change: Next Morning

Ichigo and Sabrina woke up and took their time in the bathroom. Once again, they ordered room service. Ichigo rewarded Salazzle, Aegislash, and Bisharp with the hotel's special Poke Chow.

"So, what will you be doing today?" Sabrina asked.

"Researching the other semi-finalists," Ichigo said as he pulled out a notepad and turned on the TV. It was replaying all of the semi-finalists' matches throughout the tournament. Sabrina nodded, understanding Ichigo's logic. Ichigo spent the next hour watching the replays while writing notes on the other semi-finalists' Pokémon.

"That was a good hour of research," Ichigo thought as he stood up and stretched.

"Do you know if we can access the Official Trainer Records?" Ichigo asked.

"Unfortunately, no," Sabrina replied. "At the start of the Indigo Plateau Conference, the Kanto Pokémon League blocked access to all Official Trainer Records for competitors, until they lose," she explained.

"Smart. That would prevent other competitors from researching their opponents," Ichigo said. "Despite that, I believe I gathered enough data to predict at least half of their teams."

"Oh?"

"Throughout the three matches, all the other competitors used 5, 4, and 5 different Pokémon," Ichigo began.

"So, you can use that data to predict which Pokémon are on their teams and their moves?" Sabrina concluded. Ichigo nodded and began planning his team choices.

Time Skip: Next Morning: Waiting Area

Ichigo stood alone in the waiting area, waiting to see who would be called up.

"Good morning, everyone!" the announcer yelled. Ichigo glanced up at the TV, curious about who would be called first. "In my hand is a hat with all four of our semi-finalists' names on it." The announcer shook the hat and placed his hand inside, pulling out a piece of paper. "Our first competitor is Ichigo Kurosaki!" Ichigo stood up and entered the battlefield, hearing the cheers of the crowd. The announcer pulled out another name. "He is battling Melissa Jayne!" The announcer said. A young girl with green hair walked up. They shook hands. The referee walked over to them.

"The winner of the coin toss will get to pick who will send out their Pokémon first and also make the first move."

"Ladies first," Ichigo said.

"Heads," Melissa called. The referee nodded and flipped the coin. It landed on the ground.

"Heads," the referee announced.

"Ichigo will go first," Melissa said.

"Very well. Trainers, please return to your positions," the referee instructed. Ichigo and Melissa returned to their spots.

"The semi-final battle between Trainer Ichigo and Trainer Melissa will begin. This will be a six-on-six match. Each trainer is allowed to substitute their Pokémon without any restrictions. Trainer Ichigo will be the first to send out his Pokémon and make the first move."

"Go Hydreigon," Ichigo said.

"He has a fucking Hydreigon!" Melissa thought. "I might still be able to set up," she thought.

"Go Tentacruel," she said. The referee glanced at Ichigo, waiting to see his response.

"I'll stay with Hydreigon." The referee nodded.

"The match between Hydreigon and Tentacruel will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Hydreigon use Outrage."

"Tentacruel dodge it!" Melissa shouted. Hydreigon glowed red and charged at Tentacruel, slamming one of her heads into it and sending Tentacruel flying. A few moments later, Tentacruel crashed back to the ground.

"Tentacruel are you all right?" she asked. Tentacruel stood up. "Use Toxic Spikes," she ordered.

"Destroy those spikes with Dragonbreath," Ichigo commanded. Tentacruel spat out a small purple spike onto the field. Hydreigon released three streams of Dragonbreath, destroying all the Toxic Spikes. "End it with Outrage," Ichigo ordered. Hydreigon let out another roar as she charged toward Tentacruel. She alternated between biting Tentacruel and smacking it with her remaining heads. Hydreigon's attacks kept Tentacruel from responding.

"Come back," Ichigo ordered. Hydreigon leaped away from Tentacruel. The referee glanced at the unconscious Pokémon.

"The battle is over. The winner is Hydreigon," the referee declared. Melissa recalled her Tentacruel and sent out her Rhydon.

"Go Swampert," Ichigo said.

"Dammit. I expected a Water-type, but not a Water Ground-type," Melissa thought as she recalled her Rhydon.

"Go Venusaur," she said. Ichigo calmly recalled his Swampert and sent out his Chandelure.

"Fucking hell," Melissa thought as she recalled her Venusaur and sent out her Farrow. Ichigo recalled his Chandelure and sent out his Corviknight.

"Looks like I can't escape," Melissa thought as she nodded to the referee.

"The battle between Farrow and Corviknight will begin, with Melissa's move."

"Farrow, use Brave Bird!" she commanded.

"Brave Bird," Ichigo replied. Both Flying-types were surrounded by golden energy as they slammed into each other. Though their attacks canceled each other out, Farrow's wing slowed down after the collision.

"Brave Bird," Ichigo quickly ordered.

"Get out of there!" Melissa shouted, realizing how outmatched Farrow was compared to Ichigo's Corviknight. Corviknight was once again surrounded by golden energy as he flew toward Farrow. Farrow tried to escape but was too slow. Corviknight slammed into Farrow, knocking it out of the sky.

"End this with Iron Head," Ichigo ordered. Corviknight's head glowed silver as he dove toward the falling Farrow. He slammed his head into Farrow's chest, accelerating its descent. Farrow crashed into the ground. Corviknight silently returned to Ichigo's side.

"That… was too fast," Melissa thought as she recalled her Farrow.

"Go Golem," she said.

"Golem is one of the few Pokémon with counters against super-effective types," Melissa thought.

"Go Sceptile," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Golem and Sceptile will begin with Ichigo's move."

"Leaf Blade," Ichigo ordered. Green blades extended from Sceptile's arms as he rushed toward Golem.

"Rollout," Melissa commanded. Golem tucked its limbs inside and began to roll toward Sceptile.

"Change tactics. Use Iron Tail," Ichigo ordered. Sceptile's Leaf Blade deactivated as his tail became coated in steel. He used it to slam into the incoming Golem. The Iron Tail forced Golem to stop.

"Leaf Blade," Ichigo commanded.

"Got you," Melissa said. "Fire Fang!" Flames appeared around Golem's mouth as it bit into one of Sceptile's arms.

"Tile!" Sceptile cried in pain.

"Continue the attack! Resist the pain!" Ichigo ordered.

"Keep at it Golem!" Melissa shouted. Sceptile continued to strike Golem with his Leaf Blade, while Golem tried its best not to let go of Sceptile's arm. Eventually, Golem accidentally released its grip on Sceptile's arm, allowing him to free it.

"End it Sceptile!" Ichigo ordered. Sceptile struck Golem with several more Leaf Blades before anyone could respond. Golem collapsed to the ground. Sceptile walked back to Ichigo's side. Melissa recalled her Golem.

"Dammit," she thought. "Rhydon and Venusaur don't have counters against Swampert and Chandelure. If I sent out my Venomoth, it would be easily destroyed by Chandelure." Melissa thought for a moment. "There's only one thing I can do." She turned to the referee.

"I surrender," she said. The referee stared at her.

"Are you sure? You still have three more Pokémon."

"I'm sure," Melissa said. Ichigo recalled his Sceptile.

"The semi-final battle is over. The winner is Ichigo!" the referee declared. Both trainers left the battlefield. Ichigo quickly made his way to the Pokémon Center and handed Nurse Joy his Pokémon. As she healed them, Ichigo observed the other semi-final match. He pulled out a notepad and compared his notes with the current battle. Trainers in the Pokémon Center cheered as if they were watching a sports match.

"Trainer Ichigo, your Pokémon are ready," Nurse Joy said over the intercom. Ichigo walked to the front desk.

"Here are your Pokémon," she said, handing him four Poké Balls. "I recommend allowing Sceptile a day of rest to make sure his burnt arm is fully healed."

"That's fine. I didn't plan on using him in the next match," Ichigo replied.

"AND THE MATCH IS OVER!" the announcer yelled. Ichigo and Nurse Joy glanced toward the screen where a Charizard let out a loud victorious roar. "The winner of this match is Ritchie!" the referee declared.

"Our final match for the Indigo Plateau Conference will take place in the late afternoon, or early evening!" the announcer declared. Ichigo nodded and walked back to his room.

Time Skip: Evening

Ichigo and Ritchie stood in the middle of the battlefield. The referee walked toward them. They both shook hands. The referee walked over to them.

"The winner of the coin toss will get to choose who will send out their Pokémon first and make the first move."

"Heads," Ichigo called. The referee nodded and flipped the coin. It landed on the ground.

"Heads," the referee announced.

"Ritchie will go first," Ichigo said.

"Very well. Trainers, please return to your positions," the referee said. Ichigo and Ritchie walked back to their spots.

"The final battle of the Indigo Plateau Conference between Trainer Ichigo and Trainer Ritchie will begin. This will be a six-on-six match. Each trainer is allowed to substitute their Pokémon without any restrictions. Trainer Ritchie will be the first to send out their Pokémon and make the first move."

"Let's go Spoons!" Ritchie shouted as he released an Alakazam.

"Let's go," Ichigo said, releasing his Zoroark. She used her illusions to show a Charizard. The referee glanced at Ritchie.

"I'll stick with Spoons."

"The first match between Alakazam and 'Charizard' will begin with Ritchie's first move."

"Spoons, use Psychic," Ritchie ordered.

"Dodge and use Flamethrower," Ichigo replied. Alakazam fired a wave of psychic energy. 'Charizard' swerved to the side, dodging the attack. The 'Charizard' opened her mouth and fired a stream of fire.

"Teleport!" Ritchie ordered. Alakazam teleported away, avoiding the Flamethrower.

"Keep your guard up," Ichigo said. 'Charizard' swerved her head around, trying to find Alakazam.

"Psychic, one more time!" Ritchie ordered. Alakazam fired another wave of psychic energy at 'Charizard'.

"Flamethrower!" Ichigo commanded. The psychic energy did not affect 'Charizard'. Ritchie and Alakazam were both shocked at what they saw. Alakazam was hit by a stream of flames from 'Charizard'.

"His 'Charizard' must be an illusion," Ritchie realized.

"Alakazam use Shadow Ball!" Ritchie ordered.

"Dodge it," Ichigo said. 'Charizard' leapt to the side, avoiding the attack.

"Don't let it escape," Ritchie yelled. Alakazam fired more Shadow Balls, aiming at the running 'Charizard'. Eventually, one grazed 'Charizard'. Ripples of energy surrounded 'Charizard', revealing Zoroark. Everyone was shocked by the unexpected turn of events.

"Zoroark, Night Slash," Ichigo ordered. Zoroark's arms glowed with black energy as she lunged toward Alakazam.

"Dodge it, Spoons!" Ritchie ordered. Alakazam teleported away from Zoroark.

"Pursuit," Ichigo said. Zoroark's body glowed as she disappeared. Suddenly, Zoroark appeared behind Alakazam and attacked. Alakazam crashed into the ground.

"End it with Night Slash." Zoroark's arms glowed black as she slammed them into Alakazam's back. Zoroark quickly jumped back from the fallen Alakazam.

"Alakazam is unable to battle. The winner is Zoroark," the referee said. Ritchie recalled his Alakazam.

"I already know two of his Pokémon, a Charizard and that Zoroark. I can't bring out Rose or Happy because of Flamethrower," Ritchie thought. He finally picked out a Poké Ball.

"Go Zippo!" he said. Out came Ritchie's Charizard, letting out a loud roar.

"Return," Ichigo said as he recalled his Zoroark.

"So, what is he going to bring out next?"

"Go Charizard," Ichigo said as he sent out his own Charizard. Upon entering the battlefield, Ichigo's Charizard let out a roar much louder and more ferocious than Zippo's. She glared at Zippo. Zippo glared back. The referee glanced at Ritchie, waiting for his response.

"I'll stay in," Ritchie replied. The referee nodded.

"The battle between Ichigo's Charizard and Ritchie's Charizard will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"My Charizard will act on her own," Ichigo said.

"Are you sure?" The referee asked. He was aware that some trainers were overconfident against their opponents, which often led to their defeat.

"I'm sure," Ichigo replied. The referee sighed.

"The match will begin with Ritchie's first move."

"Zippo use Flamethrower!" Zippo opened its mouth and fired a large stream of flames. Ichigo's Charizard raised her left hand in front of the attack, blocking it. Zippo stopped the attack. Suddenly, draconic energy surrounded Ichigo's Charizard as she flew toward Zippo.

"Zippo get in the air!" Ritchie ordered. Zippo flapped its wings and shot up, followed by Ichigo's Charizard. Ichigo's Charizard crashed into Zippo. Zippo quickly recovered and glared upward at Ichigo's Charizard, who had just finished using Dragon Rush.

"Zippo twin Thunder Claws!" Ritchie ordered. Zippo's fists glowed yellow as electricity surrounded them. Zippo flew toward Ichigo's Charizard. Draconic energy surrounded her fists as she used Dragon Claws to block Zippo's punches and counterattacked. They stood in the air, exchanging powerful punches. Both Pokémon were evenly matched.

Suddenly, Ichigo's Charizard's mouth glowed with draconic energy as she used Dragon Fang and bit down on Zippo's defenseless neck.

"ROAAAARRR!" Zippo yelled in pain. Ichigo's Charizard took advantage of Zippo's vulnerability, landing punch after punch on Zippo's body, with the pain preventing Zippo from defending itself.

"Zippo get out of there!" Ritchie yelled. Zippo struggled to move, unable to fight against the pain from Ichigo's Charizard's attacks. Suddenly, Ichigo's Charizard swung Zippo toward the ground. Enveloped in draconic energy again, she dived toward the falling Zippo.

"ZIPPO!" Ritchie yelled. Ichigo's Charizard slammed her head into Zippo's stomach, accelerating its descent. Zippo crashed back into the battlefield, shaking the entire stadium. All the kicked-up dust was blown away as Ichigo's Charizard let out a victorious roar, standing on top of the unconscious Zippo.

"Ritchie's Charizard is unable to battle. The winner is Ichigo's Charizard," the referee said. Ritchie recalled his Charizard.

"I'm down two already," Ritchie thought. "I wonder what he'll bring out next." He threw out another Poké Ball, sending out his Kingdra.

"Return," Ichigo said as he recalled his Charizard. "Go, Rapidash." Ichigo sent out his Galarian Rapidash. Everyone, including Ritchie, was shocked by the appearance of the Galarian Rapidash. Many in the audience had never seen a regional variation of a Pokémon before.

"What… is that? It looks like a Rapidash, but it doesn't have any fire," Ritchie thought. The referee glanced over to Ritchie, waiting for his response upon seeing the Galarian Rapidash.

"I'll stay in for now. I'll switch out immediately if it becomes a threat," Ritchie decided.

"I'll stay in for now," Ritchie replied.

"Very well," the referee said. "The match between Rapidash and Kingdra will begin. Ritchie has the first move."

"Cruise use Hydro Pump!" Kingdra took a deep breath before firing a blast of pressurized water toward Rapidash.

"Dodge it and use Play Rough," Ichigo ordered. Rapidash jumped to the side, easily avoiding the attack. Pink energy surrounded her as she charged toward Kingdra.

"Dodge it!" Ritchie ordered. Kingdra tried to get out of the way, but it was too slow. Rapidash kicked Kingdra with her front legs. Kingdra collapsed to the ground. Before it could react, Rapidash climbed on top of Kingdra and began stomping on it.

"Cruise!" Ritchie yelled.

"Enough," Ichigo said. Rapidash kicked Kingdra one more time, sending Kingdra crashing at Ritchie's feet.

"The battle is over. The winner is Rapidash," the referee declared. Ritchie recalled his Kingdra.

"Man, that was fast," Ritchie thought. "I'm down to Sparky, Happy, and Rose." He then wondered, "Who should I send out next?"

"Go, Rose!" Ritchie decided.

"Return," Ichigo said, recalling his Rapidash. "Go, Sandslash." Ichigo sent out his Alolan Sandslash. Once again, Ichigo shocked the entire area with another regional exclusive.

"An Ice-type!" Ritchie realized upon seeing the Sandslash.

"Return," Ritchie said, turning to his Pikachu on his shoulder. "I need you, Sparky." The Pikachu nodded and jumped into the battlefield.

"Return," Ichigo said, as he recalled his Alolan Sandslash, and sent out his Garchomp. She let out a loud roar before glaring at Pikachu.

"Is this a Ground-type? It also looks like a Dragon-type." The referee glanced at Ritchie, waiting for his response to the substitution. "Should I send Rose back out?" Ritchie thought.

"Ahem." The referee coughed.

"Sorry," Ritchie said. "I'll stick with Sparky." The referee nodded.

"The battle between Garchomp and Pikachu will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Earthquake," Ichigo said. Garchomp slammed her tail on the ground. The ground shook as shockwaves moved toward Pikachu.

"Sparky use Extreme Speed to dodge!" Ritchie ordered. Pikachu leaped into the air, dodging the Earthquake.

"Dragon Rush," Ichigo ordered. Garchomp was engulfed in draconic energy as she lunged toward the airborne Pikachu.

"Dodge it, Sparky!" Ritchie yelled. But it was too late. Garchomp slammed into Pikachu, sending it tumbling.

"End it," Ichigo said. Garchomp, still surrounded by draconic energy, followed Pikachu's descent and slammed her head into Pikachu, accelerating the fall.

"Sparky get away from it!" Ritchie ordered. Pikachu's tail glowed silver and smacked Garchomp in the face, trying to force it away. But Garchomp ignored Pikachu's attack. Soon, they crashed into the ground, kicking up dust. Garchomp leaped out of the dust cloud.

"GAAARRRR!" Garchomp roared, dispersing the dust. The audience looked on to see Pikachu lying unconscious. Ritchie recalled his Pikachu.

"Dammit," Ritchie thought. "Rose (Vileplume) and Happy (Butterfree) are left. None of them are strong enough to deal with Ichigo's Pokémon."

"Trainer Ritchie, please send out your next Pokémon," the referee said.

"I surrender," Ritchie said.

"Are you sure?" the referee asked.

"I'm sure," he replied in a depressed tone.

"The final battle of the Indigo Plateau Conference is over. The winner is Trainer Ichigo Kurosaki!" the referee announced. Ichigo recalled his Garchomp. He walked off the battlefield and headed to the Pokémon Center. He could hear people talking about him. After healing his Pokémon, Ichigo returned to the Pokémon Stadium for the reward ceremony. He returned to see that Melissa, his opponent in the semi-finals, had won her match. Delia took the microphone and began the reward ceremony. Ichigo, Ritchie, and Melissa stood on stage to receive their awards. Ritchie and Melissa received a small plaque and medal, with their name, date, and placement in the Indigo Plateau Conference. Ichigo received a trophy with the same information. They were also awarded the title of Ace Trainer. Afterward, Ritchie and Melissa were escorted off the stage, leaving Ichigo and Delia alone. The audience watched them.

"Ace Trainer Ichigo," Delia began. "As the winner of this year's Indigo Plateau Conference, you have one more opportunity ahead of you. You can challenge the Indigo Plateau Elite Four!" The monitors displayed images of the Indigo Plateau Elite Four members: Lorelei, Bruno, Karen, Agatha, and Lance. "Do you wish to challenge the Indigo Plateau Elite Four?" she asked, holding the microphone out to Ichigo.

"I accept," Ichigo replied. Delia took the microphone back.

"As the challenger, you have the right to choose when you will challenge them," she said, moving the microphone back to Ichigo.

"Tomorrow at noon, at this stadium," Ichigo declared. Everyone stared at him.

"V-very well," Delia said, glancing at the VIP booth where the Indigo Plateau Elite Four sat. A panel opened, revealing Lance, Champion of the Indigo Plateau Elite Four.

"I, Lance, the Champion of the Indigo Plateau Elite Four, accept Ace Trainer Ichigo's challenge," he formally announced.

"Then I will see you then," Ichigo said, walking off the stage, ready to prepare his team for the match.

Time Skip: The Next Day: Noon: Indigo Plateau Stadium

Ichigo stood inside the waiting room, greeted by a referee.

"Ace Trainer Ichigo, before the challenge begins, allow me to explain the rules," he said. "The first rule is that only six Pokémon can be used throughout the entire challenge. You must reveal the six Pokémon you plan to use to me now." Ichigo released his chosen Pokémon for the battle. The referee nodded. "Very well. I've noted them down."

"Will the Champion or the other Elite Four know about my team?" Ichigo asked.

"No, they will not," the referee replied, exiting the room. Ichigo recalled his Pokémon and waited to be called.

"Our challenger is the undefeated winner of the Indigo Plateau Conference, Ace Trainer Ichigo!" the announcer yelled. The loud cheers of the audience filled the air as Ichigo walked onto the battlefield. He could see Lorelei standing there.

"Good luck, challenger," Lorelei said.

"You as well," Ichigo replied. Another referee walked toward them.

"The first match of the Elite Four Challenge shall begin. The match is between Ace Trainer Ichigo and Elite Four member Lorelei. This will be a six-on-six match. Each trainer is allowed to substitute their Pokémon without restrictions. On the count of three, both trainers will send out their first Pokémon. Ace Trainer Ichigo will make the first move," the referee explained. Ichigo and Lorelei walked to their positions. "One," both trainers took out a Poké Ball. "Two," they raised their Poké Balls, preparing to throw them. "Three!" Ichigo and Lorelei threw their Poké Balls. A Dewgong and Mika appeared on the battlefield.

"The battle between Dewgong and Ninetales shall begin!"

"Mika use Sunny Day!" Ichigo ordered.

"Dewgong use Liquidation," Lorelei ordered. White energy gathered around Mika's mouth before firing into the air. The ball of energy shattered, and the warmth of the sun grew more intense. At the same time, Dewgong surrounded itself with water and charged toward Mika. Mika quickly leaped into the air, avoiding the attack.

"Solar Beam!" Ichigo ordered. Mika, still in the air, opened her mouth and quickly gathered solar energy.

"Dewgong use Protect!" Lorelei quickly ordered. Mika fired her Solar Beam at Dewgong before it could react.

"Gong!" Dewgong cried out in pain. Mika ended her attack and landed back on the battlefield. Dewgong forced itself back up, ready to continue the battle.

"Dewgong use Liquidation, again," Lorelei instructed. Dewgong once again surrounded itself with water before charging toward Mika.

"Stop it with Psychic," Ichigo ordered. Mika's eyes glowed as she stopped the incoming Dewgong. She raised Dewgong into the air and slammed it down to the ground. The water surrounding Dewgong dispersed. "Finish this with Solar Beam," Ichigo instructed.

"Dewgong get back up," Lorelei ordered. Mika raised her head and gathered more solar energy. Dewgong struggled to stand. Mika fired her attack at Dewgong, finishing it off. The dust settled, revealing Dewgong unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Ninetales." Lorelei recalled her Dewgong.

"That Ninetales is going to be tough to deal with," Lorelei thought as she sent out her next Pokémon, a Lapras. The referee glanced at Ichigo, awaiting his response.

"I will remain with Mika," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Lapras and Ninetales shall begin. Lorelei has the first move," the referee announced.

"Lapras use Hydro Pump," Lorelei ordered.

"Dodge it and use Solar Beam," Ichigo commanded. Lapras opened her mouth and fired a powerful blast of water toward Ninetales. Mika bent her knees and jumped to the right, narrowly avoiding the Hydro Pump. Mika opened her mouth and fired another Solar Beam at Lapras, hitting her and prematurely stopping the attack. Lapras cried out in pain.

"Lapras use Ice Beam," Lorelei said. A light blue ball formed on Lapras's horn before multiple light blue beams fired around the Solar Beam. The ice began to form around the Solar Beam, creating a barrier. Mika stopped her attack and landed back on the ground. Lapras ceased using Ice Beam, causing the remaining ice to fall apart. The two Pokémon glared at each other.

"That Solar Beam took longer to charge than the others," Ichigo thought. "But Lapras is almost done."

"Mika use Energy Ball," Ichigo ordered. Mika opened her mouth, forming a green energy ball.

"Lapras use Ice Beam," Lorelei commanded. Another light blue ball formed on Lapras's horn. Mika fired her Energy Ball while Lapras fired her Ice Beam. The two attacks collided, causing an explosion. Ichigo used the explosion to his advantage.

"Use Sunny Day again," Ichigo ordered. White energy gathered around Mika's mouth before firing it into the air. The ball of energy shattered, parting the dust and restoring the harsh sunlight.

"Finish this with Solar Beam!" Ichigo commanded. Mika opened her mouth and fired another Solar Beam. The attack was too fast for Lapras to respond. The Solar Beam hit Lapras, sending her flying into the wall behind Lorelei.

"The battle is over with Ninetales' victory," the referee declared. Lorelei recalled her Lapras.

"I need to get rid of that Ninetales," Lorelei thought as she sent out her Mamoswine. Ichigo recalled his Ninetales.

"Oh? What is he planning to send out?" Lorelei wondered.

"Come Blaziken," Ichigo said.

"Hm… good call. Blaziken is a Fire Fighting-type, exploiting Mamoswine's weakness to both types. It also gives Ninetales time to recover," the referee thought as he glanced at Lorelei.

"I will stay with Mamoswine," Lorelei replied. The referee nodded.

"The battle between Mamoswine and Blaziken will start. Ichigo has the first move."

"Blaze Kick!" Ichigo ordered. Fire surrounded Blaziken's right foot as she charged toward Mamoswine.

"Earthquake," Lorelei commanded. Mamoswine raised its front legs before stomping down on the ground.

"Jump in the air!" Ichigo quickly added. The shockwave shot toward Blaziken. Blaziken jumped high in the air. As she descended, she aimed her blazing foot toward Mamoswine's face.

"Swine!" Mamoswine shouted in pain as the attack landed, pushing it back.

"Don't let up. Go for Close Combat!" Ichigo ordered.

"Blaze," Blaziken replied, launching a flurry of fast punches and kicks at Mamoswine's face. Mamoswine's body shuddered with each blow.

"Mamoswine use Avalanche!" Lorelei shouted. Mamoswine's body glowed light blue as a dark cloud appeared above Blaziken. Chunks of ice began to rain down from the cloud.

"Blaziken dodge it by running behind Mamoswine!" Ichigo ordered. Blaziken dashed across Mamoswine's back, evading the falling ice.

"Don't let up Mamoswine!" Lorelei called. Mamoswine continued its assault, unfazed by the falling ice that struck its back.

"Keep it up! If you can, use Blaze Kick while you move around," Ichigo instructed. Blaziken, now understanding Ichigo's strategy, began using Blaze Kick while continuing to run around Mamoswine's back, dodging the ice.

"Dammit," Lorelei thought, watching the scene unfold. She quickly realized Ichigo's plan. Suddenly, Mamoswine collapsed on its own. Blaziken returned to Ichigo's side.

"The battle is over with Blaziken's victory," the referee announced. Lorelei recalled her Mamoswine.

"Let me force him to switch his Blaziken out," Lorelei thought as she sent out her Cloyster.

"After this, she has her Slowking and Jynx. Mika, are you ready to resume the fight?" Ichigo asked.

"Sure," Mika replied. Ichigo recalled his Blaziken and sent out Mika. The referee glanced at Lorelei.

"I'm fine with this."

"The battle continues with Cloyster vs Ninetales. Lorelei has the first move."

"Iron Defense," Lorelei ordered. Cloyster closed its shell, briefly glowing silver.

"Sunny Day and Solar Beam," Ichigo quickly ordered. White energy gathered around Mika's mouth before firing it into the air. The ball of energy shattered, restoring the harsh sunlight.

"Iron Defense again," Lorelei commanded. Cloyster, still in its shell, glowed silver once more.

Mika opened her mouth and quickly gathered solar energy before firing it at Cloyster.

"Endure it!" Lorelei shouted. The Solar Beam hit Cloyster, sending it crashing into the wall behind Lorelei. Lorelei and the referee looked at the Pokémon, embedded in the wall.

"Cloyster are you all right?" Lorelei asked. The Cloyster fell out of the wall and landed on the floor. Its shell opened to reveal Cloyster, unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Ninetales," the announcer said.

"Dammit Cloyster," Lorelei thought as she recalled her Pokémon and sent out her Slowking.

"Mika, do you think you can continue?" Ichigo asked.

"I'll be fine," she said.

"Very well," Ichigo nodded to the referee.

"The battle will continue with Slowking vs Ninetales. Ichigo has the first move."

"Solar Beam," Ichigo ordered. Mika opened her mouth as she gathered solar energy.

"Light Screen," Lorelei commanded. A yellow barrier appeared in front of Slowking. Mika fired her attack, slamming the Solar Beam into the Light Screen. The barrier held for a brief moment before breaking, hitting Slowking. Slowking was slightly pushed back by the impact.

"Slowking, Hydro Pump!" Lorelei quickly ordered, hoping to get an attack in before Ichigo could respond.

"One more Solar Beam!" Ichigo called. Both Slowking and Ninetales opened their mouths and fired their respective attacks. The two beams collided, with the Solar Beam pushing the Hydro Pump back.

"Get out of there!" Lorelei shouted. Slowking ended its attack and moved to the side, narrowly avoiding the incoming Solar Beam.

"Mika Energy Ball! Don't let Slowking recover!" Ichigo commanded. Mika fired green energy balls toward Slowking.

"Hydro Pump!" Lorelei ordered. But before Slowking could launch its attack, the Energy Balls collided with it. Slowking finally collapsed.

"The match is over. The winner is Ninetales," the referee declared. Lorelei recalled her Slowking and sent out her Jynx. Ichigo recalled Mika and sent out Blaziken.

"The match between Jynx and Blaziken will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Flare Blitz!" Ichigo ordered. Blaziken was engulfed in flames as she charged toward Jynx.

"Jynx use Psychic!" Lorelei commanded. Jynx's eyes glowed as she used her psychic energy to try and stop Blaziken's charge.

"BLAZ!" Blaziken yelled, slamming into Jynx. Lorelei, Jynx, and most of the audience were stunned. Blaziken had ignored Jynx's Psychic.

"How did he do that?" Lorelei thought.

"Follow it up with Fire Punch," Ichigo ordered. Blaziken's fists were surrounded by flames as she began to punch Jynx.

"Use Psychic to escape!" Lorelei shouted. Blaziken delivered one final punch, knocking Jynx out cold.

"The battle is over. The winner is Blaziken. The challenge is over. The winner is Ace Trainer Ichigo!" the referee announced. Both trainers recalled their Pokémon. They exited the battlefield, allowing the crew to repair the area. Ichigo was escorted to a private healing station to restore his Pokémon and then brought back to the waiting room. Moments later, he entered the battlefield once more, this time facing Bruno, the second Elite Four member.

"I can sense you are strong," Bruno said.

"Thank you," Ichigo replied. The referee walked toward them.

"The second match of the Elite Four Challenge shall begin. The match is between Ace Trainer Ichigo and Elite Four member Bruno. This will be a six-on-six match. Each trainer is allowed to substitute their Pokémon without restrictions. On the count of three, both trainers will send out their first Pokémon. Ace Trainer Ichigo will make the first move," the referee explained. Both Ichigo and Bruno walked to their respective positions.

"One," the referee began. Ichigo and Bruno took out their Poké Balls.

"Two," the referee continued. Both trainers raised their Poké Balls, preparing to throw them.

"Three!" The command was given, and Ichigo and Bruno threw their Poké Balls. A Hitmonchan and Metagross appeared on the battlefield.

"The match between Hitmonchan and Metagross will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Metagross use Psycho Punch (3)!" Ichigo ordered.

"Fire Punch!" Bruno commanded. Both of Metagross's front fists glowed with psychic energy as they charged toward Hitmonchan. Fire surrounded both of Hitmonchan's fists as it charged toward Metagross. The two Pokémon began pummeling each other with their respective fists. Everyone watched to see which Pokémon would remain standing. Suddenly, the fire surrounding Hitmonchan's fists was extinguished as it collapsed. Metagross levitated away from the unconscious Hitmonchan.

"The match is over. The winner is Metagross," the announcer declared. Bruno recalled his Pokémon, staring at Metagross in awe.

"How did his Pokémon survive Hitmonchan's Fire Punch? Not only that, Metagross looks fine," Bruno thought. He then sent out his Hitmonlee.

"I will stay with Metagross," Ichigo replied. The referee nodded.

"The match between Hitmonlee and Metagross will begin. Bruno has the first move."

"Hitmonlee use Blaze Kick!" Bruno ordered. Hitmonlee raised its right leg and stretched it out, fire engulfing the leg as it brought it down toward Metagross.

"Psychic to stop the attack and slam it down," Ichigo ordered. Metagross's eyes flashed with psychic energy. Hitmonlee's entire body froze in mid-air. Metagross levitated Hitmonlee's body and pointed it toward the ground. Hitmonlee slammed into the earth.

"Finish it with Psycho Punch," Ichigo instructed. Before Hitmonlee could recover, Metagross pounced on it and began pummeling it with psychic-enhanced punches. After a few moments, Metagross stopped and moved back to Ichigo's side. The referee assessed the situation, confirming Hitmonlee's defeat.

"The match is over. The winner is Metagross," the referee announced again. Bruno recalled his Hitmonlee.

"His Metagross is a monster," Bruno thought. "Looks like I need to send out my monster to deal with his." Bruno sent out his Machamp, glaring at Metagross.

"I will stay with Metagross," Ichigo replied. The referee nodded again.

"The match between Machamp and Metagross will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"You know what to do," Ichigo said. Metagross's eyes glowed as it used Psychic.

"Darkest Lariat (4)!" Bruno ordered. All four of Machamp's arms glowed black as it began spinning like a tornado, charging toward Metagross. Machamp ignored Metagross's Psychic.

"Gyro Ball," Ichigo commanded. Metagross pulled its arms back, and light blue orbs appeared at the end of its claws. Metagross began to spin, creating its own tornado, moving toward Machamp's. The two tornadoes collided, and neither one was able to push the other back. Suddenly, the silver tornado started to veer left, slamming into the black tornado. Before the black tornado could respond, the silver tornado moved back into the center and struck again. It relentlessly attacked, causing the black tornado to slow down.

"Looks like Machamp is slowing down," Ichigo thought. "I need to be careful. Metagross will get much more tired if this continues." The black tornado eventually stopped, revealing a disoriented Machamp. The silver tornado came to a halt, revealing Metagross.

"Psycho Punch," Ichigo ordered. Metagross raised its hand and punched Machamp. The blow knocked Machamp out, sending it crashing to the ground.

"The match is over. Once again, the winner is Metagross!" Bruno recalled his Machamp and sent out his Poliwrath. Ichigo glanced at Metagross.

"I can still go on," it said.

"I will stick with Metagross," Ichigo replied. The referee nodded.

"The match between Poliwrath and Metagross will begin. Bruno has the first move."

"Poliwrath use Earthquake!" Bruno ordered.

"Magnet Rise," Ichigo countered. Poliwrath punched the ground, shaking the entire stadium. Metagross locked its arms and began to float in the air, avoiding the attack.

"Psychic and Psycho Punch," Ichigo commanded. Metagross executed the combo, attacking Poliwrath. In just a few minutes, Poliwrath was unconscious. Bruno recalled his Poliwrath and sent out his Hitmontop. It too was quickly defeated by Metagross. Bruno sent out his final Pokémon, Primeape. Despite Primeape's recklessness, it was held down by Metagross's Psychic and pummeled by Psycho Punch.

"The challenge is over. The winner is Ace Trainer Ichigo!" the referee announced. Both trainers recalled their Pokémon. Ichigo left the battlefield and was escorted to a private healing station. He placed Metagross's Poké Ball into the machine, and it quickly healed. Ichigo returned to the stadium and walked to the center to meet Agatha.

"Despite being so young… you've brushed with death many times," she said.

"I know," Ichigo replied. "Death and I are old friends. I can tell you are the same." Agatha cackled at Ichigo's comment. The referee arrived.

"The third match of the Elite Four Challenge shall begin. The match is between Ace Trainer Ichigo and Elite Four member Agatha. This will be a six-on-six match. Each trainer is allowed to substitute their Pokémon without restrictions. On the count of three, both trainers will send out their first Pokémon. Ace Trainer Ichigo will make the first move," the referee explained. Ichigo and Agatha walked to their positions.

"One," the referee began. Ichigo and Agatha took out their Poké Balls.

"Two," the referee continued. Both trainers raised their Poké Balls, preparing to throw them.

"Three!" the referee announced. Ichigo and Agatha threw their Poké Balls. A Gengar and Metagross appeared on the battlefield.

"Smart. His Metagross won't be affected by my Poison-type attacks, but he's also left himself open to my Ghost-type attacks," Agatha thought.

"Metagross use Psycho Punch," Ichigo ordered.

"Shadow Sneak," Agatha replied. Gengar quickly disappeared into the shadows. Everyone noticed Metagross didn't immediately use Psycho Punch. Ichigo chuckled.

"Looks like that extra training with the ghosts paid off." Metagross looked around, waiting for Gengar to appear. Gengar's eyes appeared beneath Metagross, ready to attack. Suddenly, Metagross covered its fist with psychic energy and punched into the shadow where Gengar was hiding. The sudden attack was too fast for Gengar to react to. The impact stunned the Gengar and forced it out of the shadow.

"Don't let Gengar recover," Ichigo ordered. Metagross continued its attack with Psycho Punch.

"Gengar Curse!" Agatha commanded. Gengar turned towards Metagross. A ghostly nail appeared behind it. Metagross paused, watching the ghostly scene unfold. The spectral nail slowly stabbed into Gengar. Gengar's eyes glowed dark purple. Suddenly, Metagross was surrounded by a dark purple aura. Gengar's eyes and Metagross stopped glowing, and Gengar finally collapsed.

"The match is over. The winner is Metagross," the referee declared. Agatha recalled her Gengar.

"Excellent. That Metagross is on a timer," she thought, sending out her Sableye.

"Damn," Ichigo thought. "It's only weakness is Fairy type. Metagross, do you think you can handle it?"

"Don't worry. I can deal with it," Metagross replied.

"Very well," Ichigo said, trusting Metagross's judgment.

"I will stick with Metagross," Ichigo said.

"The match between Sableye and Metagross will begin. Agatha has the first move."

"Shadow Sneak," Agatha ordered. Sableye let out a cackle before disappearing into the shadows.

"Meteor Mash," Ichigo commanded. Metagross gathered its steel energy and stood waiting for Sableye to emerge. Sableye briefly crept out of the shadows, but Metagross turned around, anticipating its move. Sableye quickly returned to the shadows. Metagross stood motionless, patiently waiting, ignoring the lingering effects of Gengar's Curse. Suddenly, Metagross slammed its fist into the shadows behind it. The unexpected attack forced Sableye out of the shadows. Metagross raised its arm, and steel energy radiated from it as it swung toward Sableye. Everyone could see a comet-like tail trailing behind Metagross's fist.

"Destiny Bond!" Agatha shouted. Metagross's fist slammed into Sableye, knocking it out cold. Sableye's unconscious eyes glowed dark purple. Immediately, Metagross was surrounded by the same dark purple aura. Metagross struggled to remain standing before collapsing.

"The match is over. No winner," the referee declared. Ichigo and Agatha recalled their respective Pokémon.

"That Metagross of his could have fought another Pokémon after Sableye," Agatha thought.

"Thank you Metagross," Ichigo thought. Both trainers took out their Poké Balls and sent out their next Pokémon. Agatha's Mismagius faced Ichigo's Gardevoir. The crowd stared at her, amazed by her otherworldly beauty.

"The battle between Mismagius and Gardevoir will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Dark Pulse," Ichigo commanded. Gardevoir gathered dark energy around her hands before firing it at Mismagius.

"Dodge and use Shadow Ball," Agatha countered. Mismagius gathered a ball of ghostly energy and floated upward, avoiding the attack. She then threw the ball toward Gardevoir.

"Slap it away, aim for its face. Use that time to Teleport behind it and use Dark Pulse," Ichigo mentally instructed. Surprisingly, Gardevoir didn't dodge the Shadow Ball. Instead, she slapped it, sending it back toward Mismagius.

"Dodge it!" Agatha ordered. Mismagius quickly moved aside, narrowly avoiding the Shadow Ball. However, Mismagius soon realized Gardevoir had disappeared. Suddenly, a ball of dark energy slammed into Mismagius from behind. It turned around to find nothing there. A second Dark Pulse hit it in the back, knocking it out of the air. Mismagius crashed to the ground, only to look up and see Gardevoir standing in front of it with another Dark Pulse in her hands. She hurled it toward Mismagius.

"Use Shadow Sneak!" Agatha ordered in a last-ditch effort to rescue her Pokémon. Mismagius tried to slip into the shadows, but the Dark Pulse was too fast. It struck Mismagius, knocking it out.

"The battle is over. The winner is Gardevoir," the referee declared. Agatha recalled her Mismagius.

"That Gardevoir's Dark Pulse is stronger than a regular Gardevoir's," Agatha thought. "It might be a Dark Type in addition to being a Psychic Type."

"Go Dusknoir," she said.

"The match between Dusknoir and Gardevoir will begin. Agatha has the first move."

"Shadow Punch," Agatha ordered. Dusknoir's fists glowed with ghostly energy as it lunged towards Gardevoir.

"Teleport and use Dark Pulse," Ichigo countered. Dusknoir swung its fist at Gardevoir. At the last moment, Gardevoir teleported behind Dusknoir.

"It's behind you!" Agatha quickly shouted. Gardevoir fired her Dark Pulse as Dusknoir turned around. The Dark Pulse struck Dusknoir directly in the face, pushing it back.

"Continue with Shadow Balls and Dark Pulses," Ichigo ordered. Dusknoir regained its footing, only to see Gardevoir firing Shadow Balls and Dark Pulses towards it.

"Dusknoir use Shadow Sneak to escape!" Agatha commanded. Dusknoir quickly dove into the shadows, trying to avoid the barrage. It managed to evade the Dark Pulses, but the Shadow Balls continued to chase it in the shadows. Dusknoir swerved side to side in an attempt to dodge.

"Calm Mind," Ichigo ordered. Gardevoir closed her eyes, using the opportunity to increase the power of her special attacks and special defense. Dusknoir emerged from the shadows, breathing heavily from the exertion of avoiding the attacks. Before it could react, Gardevoir unleashed another Dark Pulse. Dusknoir was too slow to respond. The Dark Pulse hit it square in the chest. Dusknoir groaned before collapsing.

"The battle is over. The winner is Gardevoir," the referee announced. Agatha recalled her Dusknoir.

"That kid is something. No wonder he caught its attention," Agatha thought as she sent out her Crobat.

"I will stick with Gardevoir," Ichigo said. The referee nodded.

"The match between Crobat and Gardevoir will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Restrain it with Psychic and Thunderbolt," Ichigo ordered.

"Dodge it and use U-Turn," Agatha commanded. Gardevoir's eyes glowed with psychic energy, forcing Crobat to the ground. Yellow electricity crackled around Gardevoir's hands as she pointed them at the restrained Crobat.

"Try to break free!" Agatha shouted. A bolt of electricity shot from Gardevoir's hands, striking Crobat. The Thunderbolt hit Crobat hard, knocking it unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Gardevoir," the referee announced. Agatha recalled her Crobat and sent out her Arbok, her final Pokémon.

"I will stick with Gardevoir," Ichigo said. The referee nodded.

"The match between Arbok and Gardevoir will begin. Agatha has the first move."

"Lunge towards and use Wrap," Agatha ordered. Arbok coiled its tail before launching itself toward Gardevoir.

"Dodge and restrain it with Psychic," Ichigo said. Gardevoir teleported away, dodging Arbok's attack. Her eyes glowed with psychic energy as she forced Arbok to the ground.

"Slam it on the ground," Ichigo commanded. Arbok floated up briefly before being slammed back to the ground. It was powerless against Gardevoir's Psychic. Arbok was slammed several more times before Gardevoir released it. Arbok collapsed, unable to continue.

"The challenge is over. The winner is Ace Trainer Ichigo!" the referee declared. Ichigo and Agatha recalled their Pokémon before exiting the battlefield. Ichigo healed his team and returned to the battlefield, walking to the middle to meet Karen.

"You've used overpowering tactics against all your opponents so far," Karen remarked with a smile. "Let's see if your tactics can defeat me." She walked to her position, and Ichigo returned to his.

"The fourth match of the Elite Four Challenge will begin. The match is between Ace Trainer Ichigo and Elite Four member Karen. This will be a six-on-six match, and each trainer may substitute their Pokémon freely. On the count of three, both trainers will send out their first Pokémon. Ace Trainer Ichigo will make the first move," the referee explained. Ichigo and Karen walked to their positions. "One," they both took out a Poké Ball. "Two," they raised their Poké Balls. "Three!" Both trainers threw their Poké Balls. Blaziken and Houndoom appeared on the battlefield.

"Damn. Houndoom doesn't stand a chance against that Blaziken," Karen thought, recalling her Houndoom and sending out her Honchkrow.

"I will stick with Blaziken," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Blaziken and Honchkrow will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Plasma Fists," Ichigo ordered. Blaziken's fists were engulfed in yellow electricity as she charged toward Honchkrow.

"Dodge it and use Brave Bird," Karen ordered. Honchkrow flapped its wings, flying higher into the air and avoiding Blaziken's attack. Honchkrow surrounded itself with golden energy and dove toward Blaziken.

"Use Thunder Aura and then ground it," Ichigo instructed.

"BLAZ!" Blaziken shouted as her entire body was enveloped in yellow electricity, making her appear electric. Just as Honchkrow was about to strike, Blaziken grabbed Honchkrow in a side headlock, turning to slam it to the ground.

"CAAW!" Honchkrow cried out in pain, struggling to break free. After a few moments, it passed out from the lack of air. Blaziken released it and took a few steps back, deactivating Thunder Aura.

"The battle is over. The winner is Blaziken," the referee announced. Karen recalled her Honchkrow.

"Hm… that Thunder Aura is interesting. I didn't expect Blaziken to have wrestling skills as well," Karen thought as she sent out her Sableye.

"I will stick with Blaziken," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Blaziken and Sableye will begin. Karen has the first move."

"Zen Headbutt," Karen ordered. The top of Sableye's head glowed blue as it charged toward Blaziken.

"Block it with Shadow Claw and then Blaze Kick," Ichigo commanded. Blaziken's hands glowed with ghostly energy, catching Sableye's headbutt. Before Sableye could react, Blaziken kicked it, sending it flying into the air.

"Use Bulk Up until Sableye returns," Ichigo instructed. Blaziken nodded, flexing her arms as a magenta aura surrounded her body, temporarily boosting her physical strength. Sableye landed, unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Blaziken," the referee said as Karen recalled her Sableye.

"Looks like I need to take a risk," Karen thought, sending out her Tyranitar.

"I will stick with Blaziken," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Blaziken and Tyranitar will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Close Combat," Ichigo ordered. Blaziken charged toward Tyranitar.

"Rock Slide," Karen ordered. White orbs of energy formed around Tyranitar, transforming into rocks that flew toward the incoming Blaziken.

"Dodge them. Break them with Close Combat if needed," Ichigo commanded. Blaziken nodded and swiftly dodged the incoming rocks. Using the rocks as stepping platforms, she closed the distance between herself and Tyranitar. Blaziken quickly launched a series of Close Combat attacks. The force of the blows caused Tyranitar to lose its balance.

"Keep it up," Ichigo encouraged.

"Tyranitar Hyper Beam!" Karen ordered, trying to end the fight. Tyranitar opened its mouth, charging a Hyper Beam. But Blaziken landed a powerful punch to its gut, causing Tyranitar to lose focus and causing the Hyper Beam to fizzle out. Blaziken delivered another punch, knocking Tyranitar unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Blaziken," the referee announced.

"Holy hell. Are all of his Pokémon monsters?" Karen thought as she recalled her Tyranitar. "I might still be able to chip away at the rest of its health," she muttered, sending back out her Houndoom.

"I will stick with Blaziken," Ichigo replied.

"The battle between Blaziken and Houndoom will begin. Karen has the first move."

"Sludge Bomb!" Karen ordered, hoping to poison Blaziken. Blaziken shot forward at Houndoom.

"Close Combat!" Ichigo commanded. Blaziken charged toward Houndoom, delivering powerful punches and kicks. Houndoom struggled to form the Sludge Bomb in time. It managed to fire the sludge at Blaziken, hitting her in the face. Blaziken immediately burned the sludge off. The brief moment allowed Houndoom to retaliate.

"Sludge Bomb again!" Karen ordered. Houndoom spat more sludge at Blaziken.

"Dodge them and finish it with Close Combat!" Ichigo instructed. Blaziken evaded the Sludge Bombs and then closed the distance, landing a devastating uppercut that sent Houndoom flying. Houndoom landed on its back, unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Blaziken," the referee announced. Karen recalled her Houndoom.

"His Blaziken is exhausted. We should be able to finish it off," Karen thought, sending out her Weavile.

"She still has two Pokémon left."

"Blaziken, do you think you can continue?" Ichigo asked.

"Blaz," she nodded.

"All right." Ichigo turned to the referee. "I will continue with Blaziken."

"The match between Blaziken and Weavile will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Close Combat," Ichigo ordered. Blaziken charged toward Weavile.

"Weavile use Psycho Cut!" Karen commanded. Weavile's claws glowed purple as it launched crescent-shaped energy blasts at Blaziken.

"Dodge it!" Ichigo instructed. Blaziken swiftly evaded the Psycho Cuts. Once within range, she began attacking Weavile with a barrage of punches and kicks. Boosted by Bulk Up, Blaziken knocked Weavile out with just a few hits.

"The battle is over. The winner is Blaziken," the referee said as Karen recalled her Weavile.

"That Blaziken is a monster," Karen thought, sending out her Umbreon, her last Pokémon.

"I will stick with Blaziken," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Blaziken and Umbreon will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Close Combat!" Ichigo ordered. Blaziken charged at Umbreon. Karen waited until Blaziken was almost in range before giving her command.

"Psychic!" Karen ordered. Umbreon's eyes glowed with psychic energy, freezing Blaziken in place.

"Now, slam it into the ground!" Karen instructed.

"Ghostly Aura!" Ichigo countered.

"What?" Karen said in confusion. A ghostly aura surrounded Blaziken, less pronounced than Thunder Aura but enough to break free from Umbreon's Psychic.

"Close Combat!" Ichigo commanded. Blaziken swiftly struck Umbreon in the stomach with a powerful kick. Umbreon cried out in pain. Blaziken continued the assault, landing punch after punch until Umbreon collapsed, unconscious.

"The challenge is over. The winner is Ace Trainer Ichigo!" the referee declared. Ichigo and Karen recalled their Pokémon before exiting the battlefield. Ichigo healed his team and returned to the battlefield.

"The final battle of the Elite Four Challenge shall begin! The match is between Ace Trainer Ichigo and our Champion, Lance!" The crowd erupted in cheers. "This will be a six-on-six match. Each trainer is allowed to substitute their Pokémon without any restrictions. On the count of three, both trainers will send out their first Pokémon. Ace Trainer Ichigo will make the first move," the referee explained. Ichigo and Lance walked to their positions. "One." Ichigo and Lance each took out a Poké Ball. "Two." Both trainers raised their Poké Balls, preparing to throw them. "Three!" They threw their Poké Balls, summoning a Dewgong and Miyuki onto the battlefield.

"The battle between Dragonite and Ninetales shall begin! Ichigo has the first move," the referee announced.

"I should have expected an Alolan Ninetales from you," Lance remarked.

"Moonblast!" Miyuki opened her mouth, gathering powerful fairy energy.

"Dodge it and use Iron Head!" Lance ordered. Miyuki fired her Moonblast, and Dragonite took to the air, avoiding the attack. Dragonite's head glowed metallic silver as it dove toward Miyuki.

"At the last second, dodge it and use Blizzard," Ichigo instructed. Miyuki gathered icy energy as Dragonite charged. At the last second, Miyuki leaped back. Dragonite couldn't react in time and slammed into the ground. A gust of icy wind, filled with small snowballs, shot from Miyuki's mouth, encasing Dragonite in ice.

"Dragonite break free with Metal Claw!" Lance ordered.

"Keep it down with Blizzard!" Ichigo countered. Dragonite's claws glowed metallic silver as it tried to break through the forming ice. The two Pokémon engaged in a battle of endurance, each trying to tire the other out. As Dragonite's movements slowed, Ichigo cheered, "Good job, Miyuki." Finally, Dragonite was frozen solid.

"Champion Lance has ten seconds to get a response from his Dragonite. If he fails, Dragonite will be deemed unable to battle," the referee announced, starting the ten-second timer.

"Dragonite!" Lance shouted, trying to wake his Pokémon. To his dismay, Dragonite stood frozen. The timer ran out.

"The battle is over. The winner is Ninetales," the referee announced. Lance recalled his frozen Dragonite and sent out his Charizard. Charizard let out a loud, intimidating roar. Ichigo raised his Poké Ball, recalling Miyuki, and threw out a new one. The ball opened, revealing Hatterene.

"I will stick with Charizard," Lance said. The referee nodded.

"The battle between Charizard and Hatterene will begin. Lance has the first move."

"Flare Blitz," Lance ordered.

"Psychic," Ichigo responded. Fire erupted around Charizard as it charged toward Hatterene. Hatterene's eyes glowed as her psychic energy pierced through Charizard's flames, slowing its momentum. Charizard let out a loud roar, flapping its wings to try and resist Hatterene's Psychic.

"Teleport!" Hatterene's eyes glowed again, and she vanished, breaking free from her Psychic hold. Charizard flew past where Hatterene had been, landing on the ground. Hatterene reappeared behind Charizard.

"Psychic!" Hatterene unleashed her power once more.

"Flamethrower behind you!" Lance ordered. Charizard turned its neck and unleashed a burst of fire toward Hatterene. The two attacks collided, creating a massive explosion.

"Damn, this isn't going anywhere," Ichigo thought, as neither Pokémon seemed to deal significant damage.

"Flare Blitz! Make sure you hit that Hatterene!" Lance shouted. Charizard roared, engulfed in flames, and shot toward Hatterene.

"Hatterene try to get Charizard to destroy some rocks while you dodge," Ichigo ordered. Hatterene nodded, standing still and waiting for Charizard to approach. Just as Charizard was about to strike, Hatterene teleported away. Charizard slammed into the ground, causing the battlefield to crack. It slowly stood back up, scanning for Hatterene.

"Hatterene use Psychic on those rocks and slam them into Charizard!" Ichigo ordered. Hatterene's eyes glowed as she manipulated the surrounding rocks. Lance's eyes widened in realization.

"Get out of there!" he yelled. Charizard quickly took to the air, but Hatterene pointed her ponytail at the flying Pokémon. All the rocks lifted into the air, following Charizard. The rocks bombarded Charizard, some being dodged, but others slammed into it.

Charizard's claws glowed with Draconic energy as it tried to break the rocks apart but to no avail. Hatterene's psychic hold continued, and Charizard's movements slowed, showing signs of fatigue.

"Hatterene end it," Ichigo said. All the rocks rose above Charizard, consolidating into a giant boulder. Hatterene lowered her ponytail, sending the massive boulder crashing down toward Charizard. Charizard attempted to dodge, but the boulder was too large and descended too quickly. It slammed into Charizard, sending both crashing into the stadium.

Hatterene released her Psychic hold, causing the boulder to crumble. She returned to Ichigo's side as the dust settled, revealing Charizard unconscious on the ground.

"The battle is over. The winner is Hatterene," the referee declared. Lance recalled his Charizard.

"This isn't going well," Lance thought. "Looks like I need to risk it," he decided, sending out his Aerodactyl. Ichigo recalled Hatterene and sent out Miyuki.

"The battle between Aerodactyl and Ninetales will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Blizzard," Ichigo immediately ordered.

"Dodge and then Iron Head," Lance countered. Miyuki unleashed a Blizzard at Aerodactyl, but it swiftly flew into the air. Its head glowed with metallic energy as it dove down toward Miyuki.

"Get on Aerodactyl's back before using Blizzard," Ichigo instructed. Miyuki stood firm as Aerodactyl dove closer. At the last second, before the attack could hit, Miyuki jumped and landed on Aerodactyl's back.

"Get it off!" Lance shouted. Miyuki opened her mouth and unleashed another Blizzard, aiming directly at Aerodactyl's wings. The ice began to cover them, making it impossible for Aerodactyl to fly. Aerodactyl cried out in pain as the cold spread.

"Use Fire Fang to melt the ice!" Lance ordered. Fire appeared around Aerodactyl's mouth as it bit down on the ice, trying to melt it.

"Keep using Blizzard," Ichigo commanded. The ice formed faster than Aerodactyl could melt it. Soon, the fire was extinguished, and Aerodactyl was frozen solid.

"Ten second counter," the referee announced, starting the countdown.

"Aerodactyl!" Lance shouted, trying to rouse his Pokémon. But Aerodactyl remained frozen, unresponsive.

"The battle is over. The winner is Ninetales," the referee declared. Lance sighed, recalling his Aerodactyl and sending out his Kingdra. Ichigo recalled Miyuki and sent Hatterene back out. Neither trainer opted to switch Pokémon.

"The battle between Kingdra and Hatterene will begin. Lance has the first move."

"Flash Cannon!" Lance ordered. A ball of silver energy began to form in front of Kingdra's mouth.

"Hatterene use Teleport to dodge and then use Moonblast," Ichigo instructed. A powerful ball of fairy energy gathered in Hatterene's ponytail. Kingdra fired the Flash Cannon, sending a beam of light toward Hatterene. She stood still until the last second, then teleported away. She appeared behind Kingdra and fired her Moonblast.

"Dodge it!" Lance ordered. Kingdra dived to the side, narrowly avoiding the Moonblast.

"Use Psychic on the Moonblast," Ichigo commanded. Hatterene's eyes glowed as she manipulated the Moonblast with her psychic powers, redirecting it back toward Kingdra.

"Kingdra dodge it! Use Flash Cannon when you get the chance!" Lance yelled. Kingdra struggled to dodge while also charging up Flash Cannon.

"Hatterene release your control over the Moonblast and pin Kingdra down," Ichigo ordered. Kingdra's body suddenly froze as the Moonblast continued its path.

"Fire the Flash Cannon!" Lance urged, hoping to interrupt the attack. But Kingdra couldn't break free from Hatterene's Psychic hold in time. The Moonblast collided with Kingdra, creating a large explosion. As the dust settled, Kingdra stood surprisingly unharmed.

"Moonblast!" Ichigo quickly ordered. Hatterene fired another Moonblast at Kingdra.

"Dodge it!" Lance shouted. Kingdra was about to leap away when it suddenly froze in place. Hatterene's Psychic held Kingdra immobile as the Moonblast crashed into it, knocking Kingdra unconscious.

"The battle is over. The winner is Hatterene," the referee declared. Lance recalled his Kingdra and sent out his Salamence.

"I will stick with Hatterene," Ichigo said.

"The battle between Salamence and Hatterene will begin. Ichigo has the first move."

"Moonblast," Ichigo said calmly.

"Damn this stupid move," Lance thought, his frustration building.

"Dodge it and use Iron Tail!" Lance ordered. Salamence immediately flew up into the air as Hatterene fired her attack. Salamence easily avoided the attack and dove down toward Hatterene. Its tail glowed with metallic silver energy as it swung it toward her.

"Teleport and Moonblast," Ichigo commanded. Hatterene teleported away just in time, and Salamence's Iron Tail slammed into the battlefield. Hatterene appeared behind Salamence and fired her Moonblast. The attack hit Salamence's back, exploding on impact. Salamence roared in pain as it turned to face her.

"Moonblast!" Ichigo ordered.

"Dodge it!" Lance countered.

"Psychic," Ichigo said calmly. Salamence was pinned down by Hatterene's Psychic as she charged up her Moonblast.

"Use Outrage to break free!" Lance shouted. Salamence's body glowed red as it let out a fierce roar. Slowly, it began to resist Hatterene's Psychic, but it was too late. Hatterene fired her Moonblast, and despite Salamence's efforts, it wasn't able to dodge in time. The explosion settled, revealing an unconscious Salamence.

"The battle is over. The winner is Hatterene," the referee announced. Lance recalled Salamence.

"It's been a while since I've been down to one Pokémon," Lance thought, sending out his starter Pokémon, his other Dragonite. Ichigo recalled Hatterene and sent out Miyuki.

"The battle between Dragonite and Ninetales will begin! Lance has the first move."

"Extreme Speed and Iron Head!" Lance ordered. Dragonite's head glowed metallic silver as it rushed toward Miyuki.

"Use Ice Beam to form a wall and dodge," Ichigo said. Miyuki fired an Ice Beam in front of her, creating a wall of ice. Dragonite barreled through the ice but missed Miyuki.

"Keep an eye on her," Lance ordered.

"Blizzard!" Ichigo commanded. Miyuki leaped out and unleashed a powerful Blizzard. Ice quickly began to cover Dragonite, the shattered ice wall accelerating the process.

"Metal Claw!" Lance shouted. Dragonite's arms glowed metallic silver as it began destroying the ice. Just like the first round, it became a battle of endurance. To everyone's surprise, Miyuki was the first to stop her attack. She let out a tired breath and glanced at Ichigo, her exhaustion clear.

"I understand," Ichigo said, recalling Miyuki and sending out Hatterene. As the substitution occurred, Dragonite broke free from the ice.

"Moonblast!" Ichigo ordered.

"Metal Claw, then Iron Head!" Lance countered. Dragonite's arms and head glowed metallic silver as it charged toward Hatterene. Just as before, Hatterene teleported away at the last second, causing Dragonite to miss. Hatterene reappeared where Dragonite had started and fired her Moonblast.

"Behind you!" Lance shouted. Dragonite quickly turned around and blocked the incoming attack with its Metal Claw. The Moonblast exploded, dissipating on contact.

"Psychic, lock it down," Ichigo said. Hatterene once again pinned Dragonite in place with her Psychic.

"End it with Moonblast," Ichigo added.

"Dragonite use OUTRAGE!" Lance yelled. Dragonite let out a fierce roar, surrounded by a red draconic aura. It began to break free of Hatterene's Psychic hold, its power intensifying.

Hatterene fired her Moonblast, and the attack raced toward Dragonite. Despite Dragonite's resistance, the Moonblast slammed into it with full force. Dragonite finally collapsed.

"The challenge is over. The winner is Ace Trainer Ichigo!" The referee announced. Ichigo and Lance recalled their Pokémon. Lance walked toward Ichigo, and Ichigo followed suit. They met in the middle of the destroyed battlefield.

"Congratulations, Ace Trainer Ichigo," Lance said, extending his hand. Ichigo accepted the handshake. The referee pushed a small cart toward them.

"As the winner of the Elite Four Challenge, I must ask you: Do you wish to ascend to the position of Champion of the Indigo Plateau?" Lance asked.

"I'm sorry, but I wish to continue my journey," Ichigo replied. He was aware that the position of Champion wasn't just a title, but also a position of power and authority. Lance let out a small sigh.

"Then, as the winner of the Elite Four Challenge, I hereby award you the title of Cardinal Trainer," Lance said, presenting Ichigo with a plaque. Ichigo accepted it and noticed that engraved at the bottom of the plaque were the names of his six Pokémon.

Ichigo and Lance stood there as everyone began to take photos of the newly crowned Cardinal Trainer.

Author Notes:

I am aware that Plasma Fist is the signature move of Zeraora. There is a high chance Zeraora will not be in this story. It also makes sense to have a stronger version of Thunder Punch available.

Fire Spin is not a normal move that Salazzle could learn.

Psycho Punch is a Psychic version of the Punch series of attacks.

It doesn't make sense that Darkest Lariat, a dark type of move, has red-yellow flames.