LIGHTNOVELONLINE Chapter 38: Chapter - 38
3rd person POV –
The Battle: Jordan Smith vs. Elite Four Aaron
Location: Sinnoh Pokémon League, Main Arena
Crowd: Electric with excitement, tens of thousands packed the stands, eagerly awaiting the clash between Sinnoh's prodigy, Jordan Smith, and Elite Four's youngest member, Aaron.
The announcer's voice boomed across the stadium:
"Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to the first battle of the Sinnoh Elite Four gauntlet! On one side, we have Jordan Smith, the Sinnoh League Champion, challenging the Elite Four in a historic test of strength and skill. On the other, we have Aaron, the brilliant Bug-type expert! This will be a six-on-six battle with no substitutions. Let the battle begin!"
On the giant Television Screen – Round 1: Jordan's Drapion vs. Aaron's Yanmega
Aaron's first Pokémon, Yanmega, soared into the air, its wings emitting a high-pitched hum as it hovered above the battlefield. Its large eyes glimmered with confidence.
"Let's kick things off strong! Drapion, you're up!" Jordan called.
Jordan's Drapion emerged, towering over the field. Its carapace gleamed ominously, and its pincers snapped with anticipation. The crowd gasped—Jordan's Drapion was significantly larger than Aaron's, an intimidating sight even for seasoned trainers.
"Yanmega, start with Air Slash!" Aaron commanded.
Yanmega's wings glowed as they sent razor-sharp blades of air toward Drapion.
"Dodge and counter with Night Slash!" Jordan ordered.
Drapion darted sideways with surprising agility for its size, the Air Slash grazing past. Its pincers glowed with dark energy as it lunged forward, striking Yanmega directly. The Bug/Flying-type screeched in pain as it was knocked back but managed to recover midair.
"Follow up with Toxic Spikes!" Jordan continued.
Drapion slammed its tail into the ground, scattering poisonous barbs across Aaron's side of the battlefield.
Aaron frowned. "Yanmega, use Ancient Power! Raise your defenses!"
Large glowing rocks materialized around Yanmega before launching toward Drapion. A few struck their mark, making Drapion grunt, but it stood firm.
"Enough playing. Drapion, Thunder Fang! End this!"
Drapion surged forward, its fangs crackling with electricity. It leaped with precision and clamped down on Yanmega, the shock rendering it unconscious.
"Yanmega is unable to battle! Drapion wins!"
The crowd erupted into cheers as Aaron returned Yanmega to its Poké Ball.
On the giant Television Screen – Round 2: Jordan's Drapion vs. Aaron's Vespiquen
Aaron's Vespiquen emerged, radiating regal authority. Its wings buzzed softly as it hovered, exuding a commanding presence.
"Vespiquen, Defend Order!" Aaron shouted.
A swarm of tiny drones surrounded Vespiquen, forming a defensive barrier.
"Drapion, Rock Slide! Crush that defense!"
Drapion stomped the ground, summoning a cascade of boulders that rained down on Vespiquen. Though the attack battered its shield, Vespiquen held firm.
"Now, Attack Order! Full power!"
The drone swarm changed formation, streaking toward Drapion in an aggressive assault. The attack hit hard, forcing Drapion to stagger.
Jordan's eyes narrowed. "You've done enough, Drapion. Finish with Cross Poison!"
Drapion's pincers glowed with a toxic purple aura as it lunged at Vespiquen, slicing through its defenses. The Bug/Flying-type fell to the ground, unconscious.
"Vespiquen is unable to battle! Drapion wins again!"
On the giant Television Screen – Round 3: Jordan's Drapion vs. Aaron's Scolipede
Aaron wasted no time calling out Scolipede, whose massive centipede-like body glimmered under the arena lights. It hissed menacingly.
"Scolipede, Megahorn!"
The Bug/Poison-type charged at Drapion, its glowing horn aimed like a lance. Drapion barely sidestepped the attack, but the force grazed its side, leaving a deep mark.
Jordan grimaced. "Drapion, Earthquake! Shake the field!"
Drapion slammed its claws into the ground, creating a seismic wave that threw Scolipede off balance.
"Scolipede, Poison Jab! Keep up the pressure!"
Recovering quickly, Scolipede struck Drapion with its glowing stinger, landing a critical hit. Drapion finally succumbed to its injuries, collapsing.
"Drapion is unable to battle! Scolipede wins!"
The crowd roared as Jordan returned Drapion, smiling. "You did great out there, buddy."
On the giant Television Screen – Round 4: Jordan's Machamp vs. Aaron's Scolipede
"Machamp, let's do this!"
Jordan's Machamp stepped onto the battlefield, its massive muscles rippling as it flexed. The crowd gasped at its sheer size—it was far larger than any ordinary Machamp, an absolute colossus.
Aaron's eyes widened. "Scolipede, be careful! Use Double-Edge!"
Scolipede launched itself at Machamp with reckless abandon, its body glowing.
Jordan smirked. "Machamp, Dynamic Punch!"
Machamp's fist glowed with immense energy as it intercepted Scolipede mid-charge, sending the Bug-type flying across the field. Scolipede hit the ground hard, unable to rise.
"Scolipede is unable to battle! Machamp wins!"
On the giant Television Screen – Round 5: Jordan's Machamp vs. Aaron's Scizor
Scizor appeared, its sleek, metallic frame glinting in the light. It clanged its pincers together, ready to fight.
"Scizor, Bullet Punch! Fast and hard!"
Scizor vanished in a blur of motion, striking Machamp repeatedly with blinding speed.
"Machamp, endure and counter with Fire Punch!"
Machamp absorbed the hits and retaliated with a fiery fist, landing a clean blow on Scizor's chest. Scizor stumbled back, its body sang.
Aaron shouted, "Scizor, X-Scissor! Keep the pressure up!"
Scizor's pincers glowed as it crossed them and slashed at Machamp, delivering another heavy hit. But Machamp, durable as ever, stayed standing.
"Finish it, Machamp! Seismic Toss!"
Machamp grabbed Scizor, leaped into the air with incredible force, and slammed it into the ground. Scizor lay motionless.
"Scizor is unable to battle! Machamp wins again!"
On the giant Television Screen – Round 6: Jordan's Empoleon vs. Aaron's Drapion
Aaron's ace, Drapion, emerged onto the field, snarling and snapping its claws. Jordan's final Pokémon, Empoleon, took the stage, its regal presence commanding the battlefield.
"Drapion, Night Slash! Let's go!"
"Empoleon, block with Steel Wing!"
Drapion charged, its claws glowing with dark energy. Empoleon's wings shimmered metallically as it parried the attack, sparks flying.
"Empoleon, Hydro Pump!"
A massive jet of water shot from Empoleon's beak, slamming Drapion into the arena wall.
Aaron gritted his teeth. "Drapion, Earthquake! Shake things up!"
Drapion struck the ground, creating a tremor that threw Empoleon off balance.
"Hang in there, Empoleon!" Jordan called. "Use Drill Peck!"
Empoleon's beak spun like a drill as it lunged at Drapion, striking a critical hit. Drapion staggered but retaliated with Cross Poison, landing a direct hit.
Both Pokémon were battered, breathing heavily.
"Finish this, Empoleon! Hydro Cannon!"
Empoleon unleashed a colossal blast of water, overwhelming Drapion and knocking it out.
"Drapion is unable to battle! Empoleon wins! The victory goes to Jordan!"
The crowd erupted into deafening cheers as Jordan stood victorious, his Empoleon raising its flippers triumphantly. Aaron approached Jordan with a smile, shaking his hand.
"You're incredible," Aaron said. "I haven't had a battle that intense in years."
Jordan grinned. "You pushed me to my limits. Thanks for the battle."
The Sinnoh League was alive with excitement, and Jordan's gauntlet challenge had only just begun.
3rd person POV –
In the Stadium: Electrified Atmosphere
The energy in the Lily of the Valley Island stadium was palpable. Every seat was filled, and thousands more stood in designated areas, watching the massive screens broadcasting the intense battle.
During Drapion vs. Yanmega:
Gasps rippled through the crowd as Jordan's towering Drapion stepped onto the battlefield. Its sheer size compared to Aaron's Yanmega stunned the spectators.
"How does a Drapion get THAT big?!"
"This kid's Pokémon aren't just strong—they're monsters!"
When Drapion's Thunder Fang ended Yanmega's fight, the stadium erupted in applause. A group of Bug-type enthusiasts in the stands argued passionately about whether Aaron should have swapped out Yanmega sooner.
When Vespiquen entered:
Vespiquen's elegant entry and Aaron's strategic Defend Order impressed the crowd.
"Aaron's strategy is flawless! He's going to turn this around!"
"Jordan's Drapion can't handle that defense."
When Drapion's Cross Poison cut through Vespiquen's defenses, the crowd lost it. A family sitting near the front row waved a large "JORDAN SMITH FAN CLUB" banner while another group cheered for Aaron's resilience.
Machamp vs. Scolipede:
Machamp's gargantuan size and its sheer physical power left jaws dropping.
"How does this guy TRAIN these Pokémon? His Machamp looks like it belongs in a Kaiju movie!"
"Scolipede is FAST, though. Maybe speed will win this round!"
When Machamp's Dynamic Punch sent Scolipede flying, half the audience stood in awe, cheering wildly, while the other half speculated if anyone in the Elite Four could handle Jordan.
Empoleon vs. Drapion:
The final round between Aaron's ace Drapion and Jordan's regal Empoleon had the entire stadium on edge. As the battle intensified, people stood from their seats, fists clenched, and voices hoarse from cheering.
When Empoleon unleashed its finishing Hydro Cannon, the water spectacle dazzled the crowd, and the arena broke into deafening cheers. Fans waved banners, some bearing Jordan's name and others showing loyalty to Aaron.
On Live TV: Commentary and Analysis
The battle was broadcast live on every major Pokémon channel, with expert commentators analyzing every move.
Opening Commentary:
"Welcome back, everyone! Today's match features the young Sinnoh League Champion, Jordan Smith, in his gauntlet challenge against the Elite Four. And if his performance in the League is anything to go by, we're in for an unforgettable battle!"
After Dra pion's Thunder Fang KO'd Yanmega:
Commentator 1: "Aaron's Yanmega has some of the best aerial maneuverability in Sinnoh, but Jordan's Drapion proved that raw power can trump agility when used effectively."
Commentator 2: "Drapion's size is incredible, and Jordan's precision with Night Slash was textbook perfection. Aaron needs to adjust his strategy if he wants to keep up."
When Machamp defeated Scolipede with Dynamic Punch:
Commentator 1: "WHAT A MOVE! Machamp is a juggernaut! Did you see the force behind that punch?"
Commentator 2: "Aaron's Scolipede had the speed advantage, but Jordan's decision to tank the hits and focus on one powerful counterattack was genius."
Empoleon vs. Drapion Finale:
As Empoleon's Hydro Cannon ended the battle, the commentators were nearly speechless.
Commentator 1: "Jordan's Empoleon isn't just a powerhouse—it's a symbol of his mastery over strategy and power. This was a brilliant end to a phenomenal battle."
Commentator 2: "Aaron put up an amazing fight, but Jordan's team is on another level. I can't wait to see how the rest of his gauntlet challenge plays out!"
On Poke-Net –
The online Pokémon community was in a frenzy. Poke-Net's forums, hashtags, and live-stream chats were flooded with reactions.
Trending Hashtags:
#JordanVsAaron
#SinnohChampionChallenge
#JordanTheJuggernaut
Fan Reactions –
"Jordan's Drapion is terrifying! Where does he find Pokémon like this?!"
"Aaron's strategy was solid, but Jordan is playing on a completely different level."
"I need to know Jordan's training routine. His Machamp looks like it could bench press a Steelix!"
Some fans debated whether Aaron's choice of starting with Yanmega was the right move.
"Aaron should've saved Yanmega for later. It's one of his most versatile Pokémon!"
"Jordan's Drapion would've crushed anything Aaron sent out first. Let's face it—Jordan's just better."
Empoleon's Popularity Soars:
Empoleon's finishing move became a meme:
A gif of Empoleon's Hydro Cannon was captioned: "When you're a king and end it with style."
Expert Forums:
On competitive Pokémon forums, seasoned trainers analyzed Jordan's tactics.
"Jordan's ability to read Aaron's strategies in real-time is what sets him apart. He's not just relying on brute strength—his moves are calculated."
"Aaron's Bug-types were well-prepared, but Drapion's sheer versatility countered everything Aaron threw at it."
Reactions from Notable Figures
Cynthia (Sinnoh Champion):
Watching from her private suite, Cynthia smiled as the match concluded. "Jordan's skills are truly remarkable. He'll be an opponent worth facing if he makes it past the rest of the Elite Four."
Steven Stone (Hoenn Champion):
"That Empoleon is magnificent. It's steel resilience and water power remind me of my Metagross. Jordan's shaping up to be a world-class trainer."
Lance (Kanto/Johto Champion):
"Jordan's Drapion shows how a trainer's bond can push a Pokémon to its limits. I'm curious to see how he handles the rest of the gauntlet."
Jordan's battle against Aaron wasn't just a fight—it was a spectacle that left audiences captivated, trainers inspired, and the world buzzing with anticipation for the rest of his challenge.
Jordan's decisive victory against Elite Four member Aaron sent ripples through the Pokémon community. Gym Leaders, Elite Four members, and Champions from every region were captivated, offering their thoughts on Jordan's performance and his meteoric rise after completing the advanced battles against Sinnoh's Gym Leaders.
Sinnoh Gym Leaders: Pride and Awe
Having faced Jordan in advanced battles themselves, the Sinnoh Gym Leaders took pride in his success, acknowledging the immense growth he displayed since their encounters.
Roark (Oreburgh City, Rock-type): "Jordan's Drapion is an absolute powerhouse, but that's nothing new to me. His strategy when he battled me was flawless. He used his Pokemons agility to counter my Rock-types before overwhelming my ace, Rampardos, with brute strength. Watching him take down Aaron with the same tactical brilliance was inspiring. He's built to take on the Elite Four."
Gardenia (Eterna City, Grass-type): "Seeing his Empoleon shine brought back memories of our battle. He completely turned the tables on my Roserade using a mixture of brute force and clever predictions. The way he's grown since then is extraordinary. He's earned every ounce of his success."
Maylene (Veilstone City, Fighting-type): "Jordan's Machamp was unstoppable in his match against Aaron, just like when he battled me. His Pokémon are more than strong—they have this presence that makes you feel like you're up against legends. I'm thrilled to see him succeed, but honestly, it's no surprise."
Volkner (Sunyshore City, Electric-type): "When Jordan faced me, he pushed me harder than anyone since Flint. His Garchomp shattered my Electivire's strategies, and his tactical adjustments mid-battle left me speechless. Watching his Drapion dominate today shows that he's still that adaptable and powerful trainer. Aaron didn't stand a chance once Jordan found his rhythm."
Sinnoh Elite Four: Heightened Rivalry
Bertha (Ground-type, Sinnoh Elite Four): Watching from her reserved seat, Bertha was quietly impressed. "Jordan's Drapion is just the tip of the iceberg. If his Empoleon is this refined, I can only imagine what he has planned for his matches against me and the others. I'll have to dig deep into my experience to counter his strength and adaptability."
Flint (Fire-type, Sinnoh Elite Four): "That kid is something else! He's got the raw power, sure, but what gets me is how he keeps his cool. Aaron threw everything at him, but Jordan barely broke a sweat. I can't wait to see him bring that fire against me. I'm going to need to turn up the heat!"
Lucian (Psychic-type, Sinnoh Elite Four): "His precision and adaptability are what make him so formidable. Drapion's versatility and Machamp's sheer power are exceptional, but Empoleon's blend of strength and strategy stood out most to me. If he continues at this level, he could be one of the greatest trainers Sinnoh has ever produced."
Cynthia (Sinnoh Champion):
Cynthia, who had been observing the match closely, was more eager than ever to face Jordan.
"Jordan's performance was extraordinary, as expected. His Pokémon are unlike any I've seen—larger, stronger, and bonded deeply with him. But what truly sets him apart is his composure. Against Aaron, he maintained control, even when under pressure. If he makes it through the rest of the Elite Four, our match will be one for the ages. I've never had to go all-out as Champion, but Jordan might just change that."
Kanto Region
Brock (Pewter City, Rock-type Gym Leader): "Jordan's Drapion was insane! Watching him reminded me of the trainers I've seen traveling with Ash—determined, creative, and incredibly strong. I wouldn't want to face him unless I had a year to prepare!"
Misty (Cerulean City, Water-type Gym Leader): "Empoleon's Hydro Cannon was stunning. Jordan has a deep connection with his Pokémon. If he ever challenges the Kanto League, I'll have to step up my game."
Lance (Dragon-type, Kanto/Johto Champion): "His Drapion's size and power remind me of the most dangerous Dragon-types I've encountered. Jordan's a trainer who pushes his Pokémon to their fullest potential. If he brings that Empoleon or Garchomp to face me someday, it'll be a battle to remember."
Johto Region
Clair (Blackthorn City, Dragon-type Gym Leader): "Jordan's Garchomp was a nightmare when I watched his match against Volkner. Seeing his Drapion perform similarly against Aaron shows how consistent he is. Trainers like Jordan come around once in a generation."
Karen (Dark-type, Johto Elite Four): "Jordan's confidence is incredible, but it's not arrogance. He knows how strong his Pokémon are, and he uses their strengths to their fullest. His Empoleon reminds me of how I train my Umbreon—powerful, resilient, and capable of enduring anything."
Hoenn Region
Steven Stone (Steel-type, Hoenn Champion): "Jordan's Empoleon represents everything I admire about Steel-types—resilience, elegance, and raw power. His victory today was a masterclass in strategic battling. I'd love to face him someday to see how my Metagross fares against his Empoleon."
Flannery (Lavaridge Town, Fire-type Gym Leader): "I'm still trying to wrap my head around how he trains Pokémon to be THAT strong! It's not just their size—it's their coordination and power. I wouldn't mind seeing him challenge the Hoenn League in the future."
Unova Region
Alder (Unova Champion): "Jordan's Garchomp is one of the most intimidating I've seen, and that includes Cynthia's! He has this fierce but calm energy in battle, like a true Dragon Master. If he ever battles me, it'll be a clash of titans!"
Kalos Region
Diantha (Kalos Champion): "Jordan's poise and the bond he shares with his Pokémon are remarkable. His Empoleon's performance reminded me of my Gardevoir's determination. He's young, but he's ready for the global stage."
Korrina (Shalour City, Fighting-type Gym Leader): "Machamp's Dynamic Punch was insane! Jordan's team is like a wrecking ball, but there's so much thought behind every move. It's inspiring to see a trainer balance strength and strategy so well."
Galar Region
Leon (Galar Champion): "Jordan's Empoleon was breathtaking! I'm always looking for trainers who can push me and my Charizard to our limits. After watching this match, I'd say Jordan's a trainer who could do just that."
Jordan's ability to dominate Sinnoh's Gym Leaders in advanced battles and now defeat the Elite Four with his imposing, oversized Pokémon had the Pokémon world captivated. Discussions about his strategies, training methods, and future possibilities flooded conversations among trainers, gym leaders, and champions. The excitement for his next match in the gauntlet and a potential showdown with Cynthia was at an all-time high.
Jordan's POV –
The match against Aaron had been a grueling yet exhilarating challenge. As Jordan walked through the grand halls of the Sinnoh League complex, the cheers of the crowd still echoed faintly in his ears. His heart swelled with pride and gratitude for the three Pokémon who had carried him through the battle: Drapion, Machamp, and Empoleon. Each of them had delivered a performance that left no doubt in anyone's mind why they were among his most trusted team members.
Jordan arrived at the Pokémon Center, where his three warriors were resting after being treated by the league's top medical staff. Drapion's tail twitched in relaxation, Machamp stretched all four arms proudly, and Empoleon stood tall, its trident-like crown gleaming under the lights.
"Great job, everyone," Jordan said, his voice warm and full of pride. "You all showed the world what you're made of."
Drapion gave a low growl of approval, nudging Jordan's arm with its massive pincer. Machamp flexed its muscles, letting out a triumphant roar that seemed to shake the room. Empoleon, ever the dignified one, gave a curt nod, its eyes sparkling with satisfaction.
Jordan chuckled, reaching into his bag. "I think you've earned a little something special."
From the bag, he pulled out three containers—premium treats from one of the most renowned Pokémon bakeries in Sinnoh. Each container was tailored to the Pokémon's dietary needs and preferences.
For Drapion, there was a large selection of savory biscuits made from berries and protein-rich powders. Drapion eagerly reached out with its claws, delicately picking up the treats and savoring them.
Machamp was given a high-energy bar infused with vitamins and a spicy glaze. The Fighting type devouredit in seconds, its eyes lighting up as the fiery flavor hit its tongue.
Empoleon's treat was a beautifully crafted ice sculpture infused with sweet, hydrating ingredients. The Water/Steel-type took its time, nibbling elegantly and occasionally letting out a satisfied chirp.
"You've all earned this," Jordan said, sitting down on a nearby bench to watch them. "That battle wasn't easy, but you made it look like we've been preparing for it our whole lives."
As his Pokémon enjoyed their treats, Jordan's mind drifted back to the battle.
Aaron had put up a tough fight, as expected of an Elite Four member. The rapid, coordinated movements of his Yanmega, the relentless strikes of Vespiquen, and the overwhelming pressure of his ace, Drapion, had pushed Jordan to his limits. But it was in moments like those that his team shined brightest.
Drapion had opened the battle with raw power and endurance, handling Aaron's Yanmega and Vespiquen with precision. Machamp had stepped up to face Scizor and Scolipede, showcasing its brute strength and strategic adaptability. And Empoleon—his ace for the match—had delivered the final blow, outmaneuvering Aaron's Drapion in a clash of titans.
"Empoleon, you stole the show with that Hydro Cannon," Jordan said, looking at his Water/Steel-type. Empoleon let out a proud chirp, puffing out its chest.
"And Drapion, you were unstoppable against Yanmega and Vespiquen," he continued, glancing at his Poison/Dark-type. Drapion flicked its tail, its crimson eyes glowing with pride.
"Machamp," Jordan said, looking at the fighting type. "You were the backbone of this team. Taking down Scizor and Scolipede like that? Incredible."
Machamp grinned, flexing all four arms in celebration.
As his Pokémon finished their treats and settled in for some well-deserved rest, Jordan leaned back against the wall, his mind already shifting to tomorrow's challenge: Bertha.
Bertha was a master of Ground types, and her reputation as a tactician was almost as daunting as the raw power of her Pokémon. He knew her team would include heavy hitters like Golem, Hippowdon, and Gliscor—Pokémon that could dominate the battlefield with their sheer physical strength and environmental control.
"I'll need to be at my best tomorrow," Jordan muttered to himself. "Bertha's team isn't just strong; they're smart. One wrong move, and we could be in trouble."
His mind began strategizing, going over the Pokémon he might use. Torterra was an obvious choice, given its Grass typing and the overwhelming power it brought to the table. Aggron, his other ace, could also be a game-changer with its resistance to Ground-type moves and incredible physical strength.
But then he thought of the challenge itself. The gauntlet was as much a test of endurance as it was of skill. He couldn't rely solely on his strongest Pokémon—he needed to save some energy for Flint, Lucian, and potentially Cynthia.
"We'll figure it out," Jordan said, standing up and looking at his Pokémon. "One step at a time."
Jordan spent the next hour with his Pokémon, talking to them, reviewing the battle, and simply enjoying their company.
"We've come a long way, haven't we?" he said, stroking Drapion's hard shell. Drapion let out a low growl, leaning into his touch.
"I'm so proud of all of you," he continued. "No matter what happens tomorrow, I know we'll give it everything we've got."
Machamp reached out with one of its massive hands, giving Jordan a reassuring pat on the shoulder. Empoleon chirped softly, its gaze full of determination.
As the evening wore on, Jordan felt a wave of calm wash over him. The excitement of the day's victory and the anticipation for tomorrow's challenge blended into a sense of purpose. He wasn't just battling for himself—he was battling for the bond he shared with his Pokémon, for the journey they'd taken together, and for the future they were building.
"Rest up, everyone," Jordan said, recalling his Pokémon into their Poké Balls. "Tomorrow's a big day."
With that, he made his way back to his room, his mind buzzing with strategies, excitement, and an unshakable determination to give Bertha—and the rest of the Sinnoh Elite Four—his very best.