Pokémon Adventures: GAMER PATH

Chapter 138: Flying Gym Battle

~Third POV~

[Johto Region, Days Later, Violet City – Gym]

After a few days have passed under Azure's Gravity Training, his Johto Team has grown stronger under his training regime. During this time, he made sure to fully invest and bond with his Pokémon during the past few days to weeks.

Getting them to grind until they reached a satisfactory level, he wanted his Johto Team to be prepared for. Feeling confident, he returned most of his Pokémon, reorganizing his team, which he clasped on his belt.

And for those that were returned to Pallet Town, they'll continue training under the observation of Alakazam. For his current line-up clasped on his belt, he has his newly evolved Weavile, Pupitar, Amphrous, Gyarados, Steelix, and Skarmory.

The wind whipped through Violet City, carrying with it the scent of burnt offerings from the nearby Sprout Tower. Azure Sky grinned as he finally approached the next Gym Challenge in Violet City, tightening his grip on his Poké Balls.

Pikachu perched on his shoulder, its electric sacs crackling with anticipation, while Eevee, nestled in his backpack, peeked out nervously. Celebi floated nearby, seemingly interested in how this battle would unfold.

After honing his skills, Azure was finally ready to test his revamped team. He'd handpicked his Pokémon carefully: Pupitar, a stoic protector; Weavile, a swift and cunning assassin; Shiny Gyarados, a behemoth of raw power; Steelix, a living fortress of metal; Ampharos, a beacon of light and energy; and Skarmory, a fierce, steel-clad warrior of the skies.

Today, his destination was the Violet City Gym, home to Falkner, the Flying-type expert. He headed inside to Violet City to earn his Zephyr Badge.

The gym doors creaked open, revealing a loft-like space dominated by a massive aviary. Perched on a branch, surrounded by flapping wings and cooing calls, stood Falkner, his face calm and collected as the breeze ruffled his spiky hair.

Falkner said, his voice echoing through the gym as he looked down at him, "Welcome, challenger. I am Falkner, the leader of this gym. I specialize in Flying-type Pokémon. Do you have what it takes to soar to victory?"

Azure smiled as he replied happily, showing two of his Badges off, "I do. And I'll do so in style, Falkner!"

Falkner said with a calm demeanor and the sharp eyes of a hawk eyeing him, "Very well then, challenger. As you have 2 Gym Badges, it will be a 3v3 Pokémon battle. Now, if you please, challenger…"

*Click*

Just as he said, a strange machine came out of the ground. There were 6 sockets in them as Azure placed the 3; he'll be choosing for this Gym Battle.

He had carefully considered his options and selected three Pokémon that he believed would give him the best chance of victory: Weavile, Amphorus, and Steelix.

*Ding*

Finishing scanning, Falkner checked his Rotom Phone. Smirking, he turned as a strange machine popped up for him, revealing 3 Pokémon of exact or tougher level for the Gym Challenge.

Falkner gripped his Poke Ball, announcing in a determined tone, a slight smile playing on his lips, tossing a Pokéball into the air, "I admire your confidence, Azure. But Flying-types are my specialty. Don't expect an easy victory."

Azure returned the smile. He confidently says in return, "I wouldn't want it any other way, Falkner."

But today, it was Weavile's turn. He needed its speed, its icy precision, to overcome Falkner's aerial assault.

Azure met his gaze, a confident smile spreading across his face. His face was shadowed by his cap, reading a Poke Ball in his hand.

Falkner tossed a Poké Ball into the air and declared seriously, "Then let the battle begin! Pidgeot, take flight!"

*Pop*

With a triumphant screech, a magnificent Pidgeot emerged, its wings spanning wide as it circled the arena. Its eyes, sharp and intelligent, fixed on Azure.

Azure nodded, a silent signal to Weavile. He retrieved its Poke Ball from his belt as he hurled it out in a confident tone, "Weavile, let's go!"

*Pop*

The ball popped open, releasing a flash of icy light. Weavile landed gracefully on the ground, its crimson eyes scanning the Pidgeot with calculating intensity.

Weavile's twin curved claws gleamed like frozen daggers. Falkner said, a hint of surprise in his voice, "A Weavile, eh? A bold choice against a Flying-type with its fragile glass cannon battle style. But don't underestimate Pidgeot. Pidgeot, use Tailwind then Gust!"

*Woooosh*

Pidgeot unleashed a powerful blast of wind, whipping leaves and dust into the air. Along the way, Tailwind was activated as the wind blew behind the Pidgeot, easily gaining priority to blow the Sharp Claw Pokémon away.

*Clang*

Weavile braced itself, using its sharp claws to dig into the ground for stability. Azure commanded, his voice cutting through the roar of the wind, "Weavile, Ice Shard!"

*Pew*

Weavile didn't hesitate. It unleashed a barrage of icy shards, each one piercing the air with incredible speed.

*SMACK*

The shards pummeled Pidgeot, disrupting its Gust attack and forcing it to falter in mid-air. Falkner countered, his brow furrowed, "Pidgeot, Quick Attack!"

*Wooosh*

Pidgeot recovered quickly and charged forward, a blur of feathers and speed. It aimed for a direct hit on Weavile.

Azure watched intently, his mind racing. He knew Weavile's strength lay in its speed and precision.

He quickly ordered, "Weavile, Protect then Icy Wind!"

*CLANG*

With lightning reflexes, Weavile cast a Protect instantly, saving itself from the Quick Attack as Pidgeot clashed, avoiding the collision.

*Woooosh*

As it moved, Weavile unleashed a chilling gust of wind, its icy touch slowing Pidgeot's momentum and causing its wings to stiffen. Pidgeot struggled to maintain its flight, its movements becoming sluggish.

Azure shouted excitedly, seizing the opportunity, "Now, Weavile! Agile Style! Consecutive Ice Punch!"

*Swoosh*

*SMASH*

*Swoosh*

*SMASH*

Weavile launched herself forward, her claws glowing with ice energy. In a swift, precise strike, she slashed at Pidgeot, the attack landing squarely on its chest. Not only that began to wail at Pidgeot

Pidgeot cried out in pain, feathers scattering from the force of the blows. Falkner's eyes narrowed, seeing Weavile become a black blur as he thought, 'Its speed is insane. Weavile is known for its hit fast and strong traits, but… this one simply leaves after images like Double Team with each precision of its strikes.'

Azure smirked, seeing the results of the Gravity Training paying off for Weavile. It was impressive in its base form for speed, but under the training and evolution it went through as a Sneasel under Azure's care, it surpassed what was possible and sped faster.

*Thud*

Pidgeot plummeted to the ground, defeated. Silence fell over the gym. After a moment, Falkner recalled Pidgeot, a thoughtful expression on his face.

He looked at Azure, a flicker of respect in his eyes. He grabbed his next Poke Ball as he admitted, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips, "Impressive, Champion. Your Weavile is indeed a formidable opponent. To be raised at this level. But…"

*Pop*

Hurling his next Pokémon, it materialized to reveal Staraptor as it roared, "STAR!!"

Seeing the Staraptor, Azure's eyes narrowed at the Predator Pokémon. Weavile flinched as a blue aura veiled it, indicating Staraptor's Intimidate ability, as Falkner says calmly, "… I didn't get to be a Gym Leader through sheer inheritance. I got it through my skill as a Pokémon Trainer. U-Turn!"

*Swooosh*

*SMASH*

In an instant, Azure's Weavile was taken down by Staraptor as it dive bombed down veiled in Bug-type energy, knocking out Weavile due to being weak to Bug-type moves. Along with Tailwind, still active Falkner had his move always go first.

It then returns to its Poke Ball by U-Turn's effect as Falkner prepares his next one, confidently declaring out loud, "Even if you are a Champion. You still have a lot to learn! Go! Dodrio!"

*Pop*

Choosing his next Pokémon came Dodrio as Azure blinked, seeing him choose the flightless bird, but thought cautiously, 'Choosing a Dodrio huh? He must have a plan with that thing in the field…'

Taking the chance to look at the field. The battle arena was a raised platform, designed to allow Flying-types to maneuver freely.

Then he turned his attention to Dodrio itself, which burst from the ball, its three necks craning, its six eyes scanning the arena with intense focus. Dodrio seemed to pulse with raw energy, a whirlwind of feathers and beaks.

Azure took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew he needed to make a bold move, a statement of his strength.

Recalling Weavile, he shouted, throwing his Poké Ball, "Thanks, girl, you did enough. Steelix, let's show them what you're made of!"

*Pop*

*THUD*

With a ground-shaking rumble, Steelix emerged. Its vast, serpentine body, made of hardened rock and metal, dwarfed the Dodrio. Its glowing red eyes fixed on the Flying-type, and a low growl rumbled from its metallic throat.

The crowd from outside saw the giant steel snake, a small gathering of aspiring trainers, and Violet City residents gasped. Sending out a Steel-type against a Flying-type was an unusual choice, bordering on audacious.

Falkner, however, remained unfazed. A slight smile played on his lips as he commented, "An interesting strategy. But Dodrio has the speed and agility to overcome even the sturdiest of opponents. Dodrio, use Swords Dance!"

*Shiii*

The Dodrio, already in motion, danced as it projected aura swords as it raised its attack power by +2. Azure's eyes narrowed as he, never one to be caught off guard, barked out an order, "Steelix, use Iron Tail! Meet them head-on!"

*Swooosh*

Steelix swung its massive tail, concentrating energy into its tip, transforming it into a shimmering blade of steel. The tail slammed into Dodrio's direction that sending shockwaves through the arena.

However, Falkner countered with Tailwind still in effect, shouting, "Jump with Agility! Avoid being hit!"

*Wooosh*

Dodrio, agile as it was, avoided the blow by using Agility, increasing its speed. The Iron Tail missed its attack as Dodrio jumped high into the air.

Azure seized the opportunity. He ordered, "Steelix! Agile Style! Stone Edge!"

*RMBL*

Steelix roared, channeling its power to summon chunks of jagged rock from the ground. They erupted from the earth, hurtling towards the Dodrio, trapping it in a prison of stone, ensuring it stayed.

Falkner's eyes widened. He hadn't anticipated such a swift combination of power and precision.

Pressured, he quickly ordered, "Dodrio, break free! Use Drill Peck!"

*Sheeee*

The Dodrio, its three heads working in perfect unison, began to peck relentlessly at the rocks surrounding it. The Drill Peck attack was ferocious, each strike boring into the stone with incredible force.

*CRACK*

Thanks to its Swords Dance earlier, it managed to break through the rock with a defiant battle cry, "Squuuak!!"

The battle had begun, a clash of earth and sky, steel and feathers. Azure knew he couldn't afford to relax.

This was just the beginning. He had to anticipate Falkner's next move, exploit every weakness, and trust in his team.

He looked at Steelix, its metallic eyes burning with determination, and a surge of confidence coursed through him. He was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, one Pokémon battle at a time.

Returning his focus to the battle at hand, Falkner ordered, "Dodrio! Swords Dance!"

*Shiii*

Dodrio increases its attack power, allowing Azure another chance to counter. His eyes narrowed as he ordered, "Steelix! Automize!"

*Sheeee*

Steelix's body shone brightly as it shed bits of its body, decreasing its weight and in the process increasing its speed by +2. Falkner's eyes narrowed as he cautiously thought, 'I can't allow that Steelix to increase its speed. Dodrio doesn't have the moves needed to take it down… thankfully, its purpose is fulfilled.'

The effects of Tailwind finally ended, causing Azure to smirk as he ordered, "Now! Use Iron Head!"

Falkner, at the same time, smirked as he countered, "Now, Dodrio! Baton Pass!"

Azure's eyes widened as Steelix charged in. But it was too late as Dodrio raised its head into the air and went back into its Poke Ball.

*Pop*

Next to come out was Staraptor, all Dodrio's stat changes +4 Attack, and +2 Speed were transferred to the Predator Pokémon. It flapped its wings above, avoiding the Iron Head, glaring at the Iron Snake Pokémon.

Steelix flinched under Staraptor's Intimidate effect, already losing its Attack Stage by -1. Azure bit his lips as he thought cautiously, 'Baton Pass! This isn't good at all with Staraptor's stats increased… Steelix is in danger!'

*Fwp*

Flying above, Falkner smirked as he ordered, "Now! Close Combat!"

*Swooosh*

Staraptor, veiled in a fighting-type aura it dove down as it began to repeatedly kick, peck, and hit Steelix with its wings at high speeds. However, Azure countered, "Quick Steelix! PROTECT!"

*CLANG*

Casting a massive protective transparent barrier, Steelix managed to shield itself from Staraptor's Close Combat just in time. A blue aura veiled Staraptor, lowering its Defense and Sp. Defense by -1 Stage.

*Fwp*

Azure eyes narrowed as Staraptor flapped its wings, going up into the air out of Steeliex's reach as he muttered, "Flying Types can fully utilize the field from a 3-D advantage. That fact alone gives them the advantage. So…"

His eyes adjusted, gazing at the ground as the transparent barrier flickered, as he ordered, "Steelix! Use Dig and then Automize to the max underground! Don't come out till you fully maximize your Speed buffs!"

*RMBL*

Steelix dived down to the ground as it began to use Automize, glowing gray light activating its Steel-type move. Managing to avoid the confrontation, it slithered down the battlefield as Falkner frowned.

He crossed his arms, waiting as he thought cautiously, seeing Azure's calm expression, 'What is this guy's plan? Seeing that his Steelix has no chance of catching Staraptor, much less hitting it, does he plan to stall till he maxes his speed? No matter.'

Taking the chance to step up, Falkner yelled out loud, "Staraptor! Tailwind! Fly close to the ground to draw the Steelix out!"

*Fwp*

Flapping its wings high into the air, creating a strong wind current, Tailwind has been activated. Then it dived down to the ground, gliding over the ground, anticipating Steelix's return by baiting him out.

Azure smirked as he thought, seeing Falkner's plan, 'Gotcha.'

*RMBL*

The ground of the battlefield rumbled as Steelix emerged, taking the chance to use Thunder Fang on Staraptor. But Falkner smirked as he countered, "Perfect! Use Agility to escape and return with a Close Combat!"

*Fwp*

Staraptor did as it was followed, flapping its wings rapidly, avoiding the incoming Steelix that emerged from the ground. However, Azure smirked as he ordered, "Follow that bird, Steelix! Trap it in Bind!"

Falkner raised an eyebrow, perplexed by Azure's order as he thought, baffled, 'Attack it in the sky – '

*Swooosh*

Then it happened. Steelix was coated in a yellow aura as it easily bypassed the Staraptor in a gray blur, shocking the Predator Pokémon. Before it could realize what occurred, it was caught in Steelix Bind.

*CRUNCH*

Staraptor cries in pain, being caught staring dumbfounded at the flying Steelix. Falkner was equally shocked as he yelled, "Nani?! How the heck can a Steelix fly?!! It's impossible, as it's a Steel/Ground Type! So how – "

That was when he noticed the yellow hue veiling Steelix's body. Sparks of electricity coiled around it as Falkner's eyes widened, recognizing this move, 'That Move… Magnet Rise! Steelix could learn that move! Not only that, thanks to Automize, it also lowered its weight a lot enough to be extremely light and fast!'

Azure smirked, seeing that the training teaching Steelix Magnet Rise paid off. He chuckled as he explained, giving his order, "Yeah. When Steelix was on the ground, you couldn't have known that it could use Magnet Rise, so we hid it and trained it to use it against Flying-type Pokémon it couldn't chase. But I'm rambling here, so Steelix ends it with a Strong Style! Thunder Fang!"

Steelix opened its large maws, and its jagged fangs sparked to life. Electricity could be seen as it rushed down, chomping at the helpless Predator Pokémon stuck in its Bind.

*CRUNCH*

Steelix crunched hard as Staraptor was filled with pain and electricity coursing through its body. It didn't help that Thunder Fang's base power of 65 was boosted by Life Orb and Sheer Force, dealing 110 base damage and was super-effective on Flying-type Pokémon such as Staraptor.

*Thud*

Steelix put the Predator Pokémon down at Falkner's feet as it grinned smugly. It felt proud and happy dealing with the annoying bird flying about, thanks to Azure.

Falkner sighed a breath of relief, seeing that his Staraptor wasn't badly hurt. He grasped his final Poke Ball as he said calmly, "Sigh… I didn't expect your Steelix would be able to fly, much less use Magnet Rise. I have much to learn, but that doesn't mean I won't go down easily. Go! Dodrio!"

*Pop*

He tossed a Poké Ball into the air, and with a flash of light, a Dodrio materialized, its three heads craning and peering around with disconcerting alertness. The Pokémon was a flurry of feathers and sharp beaks, a chaotic whirlwind of avian energy.

Azure smiled as he recalled Steelix, much to Falkner's surprise. Azure explained as he grabbed his last Poke Ball, "You're pretty good, Falkner. Give or take a few years to gain experience, and I can guarantee you'll become a great Gym Leader. But I want to have all my Pokémon gain some experience."

Azure took a deep breath, choosing his Pokémon as he yelled out, "Go! Ampharos!"

*Pop*

The gentle Pokémon materialized in a flash of light, its yellow wool gleaming in the sunlight. Ampharos' amiable nature belied its immense electric power. It blinked its bright eyes at Dodrio, a spark crackling between its wool.

Falkner commented, a slight smirk playing on his lips, "Ampharos, huh? An interesting choice against my Dodrio. Dodrio, use Peck!"

*Wooosh*

The three heads of Dodrio lunged forward, each delivering a sharp, powerful peck. Azure commanded, "Ampharos, quick, use Protect!"

*CLANG*

A shimmering green shield materialized around Ampharos, deflecting the Pecks. Even with Protect, the force of the attacks shook the electric Pokémon.

With Tailwind still active, Falkner was on borrowed time till his advantages of priority attacks were useless. Falkner said, acknowledging Azure's strategy, "Impressive defense. But how long can you keep it up? Dodrio, use Fury Attack!"

Dodrio launched a barrage of rapid, relentless pecks, each strike hammering against Ampharos' Protect. The shield flickered and wavered under the onslaught almost breaking.

*CLANG*

*CLANG*

Azure shouted, his voice filled with urgency as he eyed his Light Pokémon, "Ampharos, endure it! When you see an opening, unleash a Thunderbolt!"

Ampharos gritted its teeth, enduring the relentless assault. The Protect shield finally shattered under the onslaught.

*CRACK*

However, the moment it disappeared, Ampharos unleashed a torrent of pure electric energy as Azure yelled, "Now! Strong Style! Thunderbolt!"

*Zzzzz*

A blinding bolt of lightning shot from Ampharos, striking Dodrio squarely. The three-headed Pokémon shrieked in pain as the electricity coursed through its body.

It staggered, its legs drooping. Falkner cried out in concern, "Dodrio, no!"

Dodrio struggled to stay aloft, its movements becoming sluggish. The Thunderbolt had taken its toll as it had been paralyzed.

Azure yelled, seizing the opportunity, raising his fist into the air, "Now's our chance! Ampharos, use Discharge!"

*Zzzzz*

Ampharos closed its eyes and unleashed a powerful wave of electricity that radiated outwards. The Discharge engulfed Dodrio, the electric current searing its body.

With a final, pained squawk, Dodrio plummeted to the ground, defeated, "Doooo…"

*Thud*

Falkner recalled his fallen Pokémon, his expression now a mixture of respect and despair. But he brushed it off, handing Azure his rewards in a respectful tone, "Sigh… it seems I have a long way to go before becoming a proper Gym Leader. But here's your Badge, TM, and reward for defeating me, Champion Sky. You've earned it."

Azure smiled happily, taking the rewards and the Zephyr Badge as he said proudly, "Thank you, Falkner. And cheer up, you'll be an excellent Gym Leader someday, just gotta give yourself some time is all."

Falkner smiled, thanking Azure for his words. Azure turned to leave as he saw his reward for defeating Falkner.

[Item: Zephyr Badge

Rarity Item: A+

Type: Key Item

Description: A Gym Badge, commonly referred to as simply a badge, is an item that serves as proof of a Pokémon Trainer's victory in a battle against a Gym Leader at a Pokémon Gym. With this badge, Flying-Type Moves are increased by 12.5%, and controlling Pokémon is easier for the Trainer to command.]

[Item: TM Roost

Rarity Item: -

Type: Technical Machine

Description: A Technical Machine used to grant memory knowledge of how to perform the move [Roost].]

Grinning happily, Pikachu over his shoulder, Eevee on his head, and Celebi on his other shoulder, he mutters happily, "Let's see what our next step leads us next, right guys?"

*Beep*

Before he could continue speaking, his Arc Phone rang as he picked it up. The caller was revealed to be Blaine, as he answered his call as he asked him in a confused tone, "So… care to explain what Entei is at my home? And Mewtwo is telepathically saying it came upon your request to heal my arm…?"

/////

A/N: So, how did you guys like the Gym Battle with Falkner? Since the MC took his Skarmory in canon, I decided to give him a Staraptor for better coverage as well as show Blaine recovering and losing Mewtwo in the process. Any suggestions on I should make the Gym Battle better or leave it how it is for now?