Chapter 546: Departure
~Third POV~
[Sinnoh Region, 2 Weeks Later, Snowpoint City – Docks]
*Whooosh*
The biting wind of Snowpoint City whipped around Azure, tugging at the brim of his cap and rustling the fur of Pikachu perched comfortably on his shoulder. Two weeks had passed since the climactic confrontation with Team Galactic, two weeks since Cyrus's twisted vision had crumbled, and the Sinnoh Region breathed a collective sigh of relief.
Now, standing on the bustling docks, the colossal S.S. Sinnoh loomed before him, its massive hull an imminent gateway to his next grand adventure.
Eevee, a warm, fluffy weight, nestled against his head, occasionally twitching an ear as the chatter of port workers and the cries of seafaring Pokémon echoed around them. Tucked securely in his jacket, a tiny Pichu (Mew) peeped out, its small, button eyes taking in the scene with an almost mischievous curiosity.
Beside Azure stood the Sinnoh Dex Holders: Platinum Berlitz, exuding her usual blend of elegance and newfound confidence; Diamond, a comforting, steadfast presence whose usual easygoing demeanor was tinged with a touch of melancholy; and Pearl, whose energetic spirit was momentarily subdued by the impending separation.
They were here to bid him farewell, a silent testament to the extraordinary journey they had shared. Platinum mused, her voice soft against the metallic clang of the gangplank being adjusted, "It feels strange, doesn't it?"
Her Empoleon stood regally by her side, its steely gaze fixed on the ship, perhaps sensing the significance of the moment. She trailed off, a small, genuine smile gracing her lips, "To think, less than a year ago, we were strangers, and now…"
Azure returned her smile, a warmth spreading through him that defied the chill of the northern port. He said calmly, his gaze sweeping over the trio. "It's been quite the ride, hasn't it, Platinum? Honestly, I couldn't have asked for better company."
Pikachu chirped in agreement, nudging Azure's cheek, "Pika-Pika! (Yeah!)"
Eevee let out a soft cry and leaned into Azure's head, mirroring the sentiment, "Eevui! (They were alright.)"
Diamond, ever the thoughtful one, stepped forward, his Munchlax, Lax, lumbering beside him. He said calmly, his earnest brown eyes meeting Azure's, "You really saved Sinnoh, Azure. And you taught us so much. About battling, about friendship… about taking things one bite at a time."
Lax offered a solemn nod, then instinctively patted his stomach. Azure smiled, offering him a Poffin, much to Lax's joy, devouring it.
*Clap*
Pearl, true to form, clapped Azure on the back, a little harder than strictly necessary. He declared, his Infernape, Chimlar, mimicking the gesture with a fiery fist bump, "And you helped us truly find our footing! Learning to battle with conviction, not just flashy moves… that was all you, pal! You're a real trailblazer!"
Azure chuckled, a genuine laugh that carried a hint of pride. He demurred, "You guys were quick studies. Besides, the credit really goes to Cynthia. She's the one who orchestrated the final takedown. I just helped clear the way."
He reflected on their harrowing expedition to the Spear Pillar, the raw power of the Legends duking it out, and the desperate efforts to stop Cyrus from recreating the world. The memory was vivid, but they managed to avert disaster. The sense of accomplishment was immense, knowing that he had done his part in saving an entire region.
Cynthia, the formidable Sinnoh Champion, had been gracious in her gratitude. As a reward for his instrumental role in dismantling Team Galactic, she had presented him with a Challenge Pass for the Sinnoh Elite Four and Champion—a privilege that bypassed the grueling tournament circuit.
It was a testament to his skill and bravery, a recognition of his status as a formidable trainer. However, circumstances had conspired to delay his League challenge. Volkner, the Sunyshore Gym Leader, had sustained injuries during a particularly intense battle, rendering him temporarily unable to issue gym badges.
Azure, needing that final Electric Badge to face the Elite Four, had used the two-week reprieve wisely. He had spent the time training his extensive team, cementing their bonds, and exploring the breathtaking, diverse landscapes of Sinnoh that he hadn't fully appreciated during his intense bodyguard assignment.
He'd seen amazing sights of the Sinnoh Region, ranging from the dazzling ice formations of Mt. Coronet, the shimmering waters of Lake Verity, and the verdant wilderness of Eterna Forest, each sight a quiet reward for his efforts. Platinum noted, bringing him back to the present, "I heard you were itching to get to the Battle Zone. It sounds like the perfect place for you. You always seek out the strongest challenges."
His eyes held a spark of excitement, betraying his calm exterior. Azure admitted, adjusting Eevee slightly, "It's a different kind of challenge. Frontier Brains, Battle Facilities… It's all about pushing limits, not just winning badges."
Diamond nodded. He declared, with renewed determination in his voice, "We'll be pushing our limits too! Pearl and I decided we're finally going to take on the Gym Challenge. For real this time!"
Pearl grinned, exclaiming proudly, "Yeah! And Platinum's joining us! Rechallenging the gyms, honing her skills, showing everyone what a true Berlitz can do!"
Platinum blushed faintly but nodded with a dignified air. She stated, her Empoleon letting out a proud cry, "My journey has just truly begun. And I've learned so much from you all. It's time to apply that to the League."
Azure beamed at them. It was truly gratifying to see how much they had grown, not just as trainers, but as individuals.
Diamond, once hesitant, is now firm in his resolve. Pearl is still boisterous but with a deeper understanding of strategy. And Platinum, who had started as a naive heiress, is now a confident, battle-hardened trainer.
*Click-clack-clack*
The sound of footsteps on the gangplank signaled their imminent departure. A stern-faced crew member, cap set low, gestured towards Azure, "All aboard for the S.S. Sinnoh, heading to the Fight Area!"
Azure took a deep breath, the salty scent of the sea filling his lungs. He said calmly, extending a hand to each of them, "Well, that's my cue."
He first clasped Platinum's hand, a warm, firm grip. He encouraged Platinum proudly, "Good luck with the re-challenges, Platinum. You've got this. And tell your father I kept his family's heiress safe."
Platinum smiled, her eyes glistening slightly as she replied, "You did more than that, Azure. You brought me true friendship. Safe travels."
Her Empoleon dipped its head respectfully. Next, Diamond. Azure clapped him on the shoulder as he said proudly, "Diamond, don't ever stop being you. Your emotion is a strength. Go get those badges."
Diamond replied, his voice a little thick. Lax, for once, didn't immediately think of food; instead nudging Azure's leg affectionately, "You too, Azure."
Finally, Pearl. Azure exchanged a powerful handshake with him as he said happily, "Pearl, keep that fiery spirit. You're going to be a force in the League, I know it."
His Infernape nodded vigorously. Pearl exclaimed, then lowered his voice, "You bet I will! But come back and kick our butts sometimes, alright? We'll be waiting!"
*Whooosh*
A shimmering, mischievous apparition coalesced beside Azure. It was his Gengar, as she rasped, her voice a low, gravelly whisper that only Azure and his immediate Pokémon could fully understand, "Gengar, Gengar! Such touching farewells, Boss. Almost makes one... sentimental. Almost."
Pikachu chittered a playful protest at Gengar. Eevee let out a soft warning growl. Gengar merely chuckled, a sound like dry leaves skittering across pavement.
Azure grinned at his spectral companion as he said, "Don't scare them off, Gengar. We'll meet again, I'm sure of it. Until then, stay safe, all of you."
With one last wave, Azure turned and began walking up the gangplank, Pikachu on his shoulder, Eevee on his head, and Pichu (Mew) peeking out with a tiny Pichu! of farewell. His other Pokémon, usually traveling in their Poké Balls, were safely tucked away, though he could feel the faint tremor of Regigigas's presence even within its sturdy capsule.
He reached the deck and turned, leaning against the railing. Below, the Dex Holders waved back, their figures growing smaller as the ship's engines rumbled to life, a low thrumming reverberating through the deck.
*WHOOSH*
*CHUG-CHUG-CHUG*
The great vessel slowly pulled away from the dock, the gap widening between Azure and his friends. He watched until their forms became indistinguishable amongst the other onlookers, then let out a deep sigh.
Relief mixed with a pang of wistfulness…
/////
[Sinnoh Region, S.S Sinnoh]
He murmured to his visible Pokémon present, "Well, gang, that's that. Time for our next big thing."
Pichu (Mew) simply snuggled deeper into his jacket, clearly unconcerned by travel. Pikachu stretched, then settled back down, "Pika! (Yup!)"
Eevee yawned contentedly, finding a soft spot in Azure's hair, "Eevui! (Wake me when we get there, kay?)"
Azure found a relatively secluded bench near the stern, the ocean breeze carrying the scent of salt and freedom. He sank onto it, stretching his legs out, a tired but content weariness settling over him.
The past few months had been a whirlwind: arriving in Sinnoh, becoming Platinum's bodyguard, battling Team Galactic, and training relentlessly. He had embraced the role, pushed his limits, and now, the path ahead was his alone to forge.
He mused aloud, his eyes scanning the endless expanse of the deep blue sea, "What crazy battles await us in the Battle Zone, I wonder?"
Gengar reappeared beside him, floating lazily, and replied, "Gengar, Gengar! Oh, Boss, you say that as if 'crazy' is not your middle name. I foresee much joy... and much chaos. A delightful combination, wouldn't you agree?"
She floated closer to Pichu, nudging the tiny Pokémon playfully. Pichu giggled, swatting at Gengar's shadowy hand.
Azure chuckled, shaking his head as he replied helplessly, "You're probably right. But this time, it's a different kind of chaos. Not world-ending… hopefully."
He remembered the favor still owed to him by the International Police. Agent Looker had been quite insistent on its validity, a reward for his cooperation and exceptional assistance in the Team Galactic case.
He still hadn't figured out what to use it for, but the thought lingered in the back of his mind. Maybe it would come in handy in the Battle Zone, though he doubted the police had much sway over Frontier facilities.
For now, he focused on the immediate future. Reaching into his jacket, he pulled out his Arc Phone—a sleek, futuristic device with a screen that shimmered with an otherworldly light. It was an advanced piece of technology, far beyond anything else in this world, a remnant of his past life's influence on his new reality. With a swipe of his thumb, he navigated to the Battle Zone information he had downloaded.
*BEEP-BOOP*
The screen glowed, displaying the first entry.
====
The Battle Zone Website:
The Battle Zone is dedicated to Pokémon battling. Many of the Battle Zone's facilities, such as the Battle Park, Battle Frontier, and Battleground, offer Pokémon Trainers a place to demonstrate their skills, while the island's rugged geography and powerful wild Pokémon provide a physical challenge for Trainers training their Pokémon.
====
Azure's eyes widened slightly as he murmured to himself, "So, not just man-made challenges, but natural ones too. Interesting. Rhyperior and Garchomp will love that. They need a challenge."
He thought of his two powerful Alpha Pokémon, renowned for their physical prowess and adaptability to harsh environments. But returned to scrolling down.
====
Although the Battle Zone has no Pokémon League, the Sinnoh Elite Four come here often to train and rehabilitate their Pokémon. During its early days, the island, which was renowned for its dense forests, treacherous cliffs, steep mountain paths, and raging sandstorms, only attracted the strongest Trainers, who were considered eccentric for gathering in such a harsh landscape. Eventually, the Trainers settled, and small communities such as the Fight Area and the Survival Area developed.
====
Azure hummed, a small smile playing on his lips, "The Elite Four train here? Suppose Cynthia was right about that. It explains why it's such a tough proving ground. And 'eccentric Trainers'… Gengar, they're describing me, aren't they?"
Gengar let out a genuinely amused cackle, "Gengar, ha-ha-ha! Indeed, Boss. A perfect fit! A land for the gloriously unhinged! You'll feel right at home."
Azure rolled his eyes at her comment. Then scrolled down.
====
There are three settlements located in the Battle Zone: the Fight Area, Survival Area, and Resort Area. Each area is tailored to fit a certain function. The Fight Area is devoted to competitive battling, hosting the Battle Tower and, later, the Battle Frontier, where Trainers gather from all around the world to exhibit their skills.
The Survival Area, which is based at the foot of the rugged mountain range in the northernmost part of the sub-region and is surrounded by thick jungle and cliffs, dedicates itself to Pokémon training and preparation, while the Resort Area is centered around Coordinators and Contests, allowing Trainers and their Pokémon a chance to rest.
====
Azure mused, reading down the scroll to himself, "Fight Area for battles, Survival Area for training, Resort Area for... relaxation? Well, I suppose even the toughest trainers need a break. Though relaxation might be a low priority for me."
He thought of his Hisuian Liligant, a graceful dancer, and Togekiss, a beacon of joy – perhaps they could enjoy the Resort Area while he focused on training elsewhere. He smiled at the thought.
====
To the very north of the Battle Zone, there is a mountain range, Stark Mountain, which consists of an active volcano. Due to the dry environments of Stark Mountain and the surrounding mountainous areas, the Battle Zone is subject to warmer climates.
A constant sandstorm rages on Route 228 due to the flow of wind down through the mountains. Some of the southern areas of the Battle Zone are very tropical and contain dense jungles.
====
Azure whistled, impressed, muttering to himself, "An active volcano, sandstorms, and tropical jungles all in one place. That's quite the ecological diversity. Good for training different types of Pokémon, I suppose. My Magmortar and Electivire would thrive near Stark Mountain, while Hisuian Lilligant and Tangrowth would enjoy the jungles. And the sandstorm... Rhyperior and Garchomp will be right at home there."
He mentally began to strategize, thinking about which of his diverse lineup would benefit most from each environment. His Hisuian Alpha Zoroark, with her illusory powers, might find the varied landscape inspiring.
====
Settlements:
There are three settlements situated in the Battle Zone: the Fight Area, Survival Area, and Resort Area. For all intents and purposes, the three settlements act as towns; however, they appear to be more of a tourist destination and are not considered cities or towns.
====
Azure summarized, nodding to himself, "Tourist destinations for crazy strong trainers, then. Sounds about right."
He scrolled down, the smooth interface of the Arc Phone responding instantly. The next section detailed the rules of the Battle Zone facilities.
====
Basic Rules of the Battle Zone:
Rule 1: We have established a limit as to what kind of Pokémon you may use when participating in a battle at each of the facilities. The use of Legendary Pokémon must be pre-approved. Pokémon Eggs may not participate.
====
Azure paused, his finger hovering over the screen. He repeated aloud, "Legendary Pokémon must be pre-approved."
His gaze instinctively darted to his jacket, where Pichu (Mew) was snoozing, then to the Poké Ball containing Regigigas as he muttered, "Well, that's a big one. I'll need to figure out the process for getting Regigigas approved. And Mew... well, if it stays disguised as Pichu, that shouldn't be an issue for casual battles. But if I ever want to use its true power, or even just as Pichu in a proper facility, I'll need to be careful."
With that, he scrolled down, reading the second rule.
====
Rule 2: You are allowed to bring items into the Battle Hall; you may also bring items into the Battle Tower. But you are not allowed to bring more than one Pokémon with the same item. In Battle Factory, Battle Arcade, and Battle Castle, you are not allowed to bring your own items.
However, in Battle Factory, you may use an item if the Rental Pokémon is holding one. For Battle Arcade, you may use an item if the roulette machine lands on an item box. For Battle Castle, you may use an item once you buy it using Castle Points.
====
Azure mumbled, mentally running through his team's held items, "Ah, item restrictions. Should've known. Battle Hall and Battle Tower are straightforward enough – standard competitive rules, just no redundancy. But Battle Factory, Arcade, and Castle are different beasts entirely."
He imagined the strategic implications. In Battle Factory, he'd have to adapt to rental Pokémon and their pre-assigned items, relying on quick thinking and adaptability. He thought worriedly, 'That is by luck… damn.'
Battle Arcade sounded like a game of chance, adding an unpredictable element to battles, which would be a test of foresight and improvisation. And Battle Castle, with its 'Castle Points' for items, implied a unique in-facility economy, requiring careful resource management.
Azure said, a glint in his eye that suggested excitement rather than apprehension, "This is going to be complex with the rules. It's not just about raw power or perfect team synergy. It's about adapting to the facility's specific rules, understanding the nuances of each challenge."
*Bzzt*
Rotom zipped around out of his hand. Inside the Arc Phone chimed, "Indeed! My internal processor predicts a high degree of variability in Battle Factory, Battle Arcade, and Battle Castle! Opportunity for high-level tactical adjustments! My data suggests optimal strategies would involve diverse teams capable of functioning without relying on specific held items, or trainers with exceptional improvisational skills!"
Azure nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face as he replied calmly, "Precisely, Rotom. This isn't just a test of my Pokémon's strength, but my own adaptability as a trainer. It's why I came here."
Gengar clapped her shadowy hands together and asked, "Gengar, Gengar, ho-ho-ho! Excellent! No crutches, no easy wins. Just pure, unadulterated skill against the unknown! This Battle Zone truly is a playground for us eccentrics, isn't it, Boss? Perhaps they'll have a facility where we can just float around and scare people for points."
Azure laughed, a genuine, hearty laugh that made Pikachu jostle on his shoulder and Eevee twitch her ears, responding, "I doubt that, Gengar. But who knows, maybe they'll have a ghost-type specialty challenge. You'd be in your element."
*CHUG-CHUG-CHUG*
He closed his Arc Phone, the screen fading to black. The ship continued its steady journey, the rhythmic sounds of its engines a constant, comforting presence. The sun was beginning its slow descent, painting the western sky in hues of orange and purple, casting a warm glow over the vast ocean.
Azure leaned back, closing his eyes for a moment. He thought of the battles he had conquered, the friends he had made, and the legendary creatures he had encountered. And now, a whole new frontier awaited.
The Battle Zone: a land of rugged beauty, fierce challenges, and perhaps the ultimate test of a trainer's skill. He felt a surge of anticipation, a tingling excitement that settled deep in his core. He was ready.
/////
A/N: Hope you like the chapter!