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Gyarados, Blaziken, Greninja, Tyranitar, Garchomp—five formidable Pokémon lined up in battle.
But all were dominated by Machamp, the trusted Pokémon of Vladimir, the teacher. Every attack was countered by Machamp in a more powerful and precise manner, making each move seem deceptively simple but brutally effective. Its actions were like a combination of multiple techniques, far exceeding the limits of ordinary proficiency.
When facing Gyarados, Machamp's Dynamic Punch neutralized the destructive force of Hyper Beam. Its Slash effortlessly cut through raging waves. Each move carried an effect beyond its apparent scope, a testament to years of relentless training.
Machamp's devastating prowess wasn't just a matter of level but a reflection of unmatched skill mastery. Its abilities were honed through rigorous practice, much like Chris's Blaziken, whose chain kicks seamlessly incorporated the effects of Force Palm through dedicated training.
This Machamp, having been by Vladimir's side for at least 20 to 30 years, had mastered a repertoire of techniques that was truly awe-inspiring. For someone like Chris, training his own Pokémon to such a level would take decades. Even without a level increase, the sheer proficiency of their moves could elevate their combat effectiveness to an astounding degree.
Against Greninja, Machamp's four arms made short work of its Substitute strategy. Greninja's speed was impressive, but it was no match for Machamp's explosive close-combat ability. Even Water Shuriken was reduced to harmless droplets by the airwaves generated by Machamp's strikes.
Blaziken and Tyranitar fared no better. Blaziken's fighting type offered no advantage—it was utterly overwhelmed in a head-on clash, enduring the most harrowing defeat among all. Tyranitar, with its quadruple weakness to Fighting moves, was as fragile as paper in a storm, falling to Machamp effortlessly.
Only Garchomp offered any challenge. Its Earthquake, enhanced by the move's overwhelming power, briefly impressed Vladimir. However, Machamp countered with a flurry of Dynamic Punches, unleashing beams of energy that obliterated Earthquake's shockwaves. When Garchomp opted for close combat, it was mercilessly knocked back by Machamp's sheer power.
Each battle served as a lesson, with Vladimir allowing Chris's Pokémon five attempts against Machamp before switching them out. This meant Machamp had essentially faced and defeated Chris's Pokémon lineup multiple times, yet it barely showed signs of fatigue. This display elevated Chris's respect for Machamp even further.
"This Machamp must be above level 90," Chris thought in awe. However, Vladimir revealed that this powerhouse wasn't even his main Pokémon.
"How strong is my teacher, really?" Chris wondered.
Vladimir's voice interrupted his thoughts. "Your Pokémon did well to make Machamp, with its near-limitless stamina, show even a hint of tiredness," he praised. While the words sounded like a backhanded compliment, Chris chose to take them as encouragement.
"I remember you also have a Gardevoir," Vladimir said with a grin. "How about this? As motivation, I'll offer a rare treasure-level Pokémon item as a reward. If any of your Pokémon can land a single hit on Machamp, it's yours."
Chris's eyes lit up. Though he hadn't expected to defeat Machamp, the prospect of such a reward filled him with determination. Vladimir, observing the performance of Chris's Pokémon, felt admiration. At Chris's age, even the world's most renowned Pokémon Masters couldn't boast such remarkable skill. Moreover, Chris was already a senior breeder, further cementing Vladimir's satisfaction with his pupil.
"But you said I couldn't even touch Machamp. And now, Machamp is this tired." Chris's pride burned. He refused to back down.
"Gardevoir, you're up!" Chris declared, throwing a Poké Ball.
A flash of light revealed Gardevoir, who floated gracefully to the ground in her elegant white gown.
"Garde~" she intoned, her gaze locking onto Machamp with fierce determination, reflecting Chris's own resolve.
Seeing yet another Shiny Pokémon appear, Vladimir couldn't help but sigh. My student has too many Shiny Pokémon. He mused silently.
First, the Shiny Gyarados in the earlier battle, and now this Shiny Gardevoir. That made three Shiny Pokémon. It was rare to see anyone with this many, except for collectors or extremely wealthy trainers abroad.
Chris's luck is extraordinary, Vladimir thought. And for a trainer, luck is just as important as skill.
"Gardevoir, use Power Split!" Chris commanded with confidence.
He smirked inwardly. Machamp's attack power is ridiculously high? Let's share that strength. Even if my Gardevoir can't deal damage directly, this move will weaken Machamp.
Gardevoir extended her hands, forming a glowing red orb in front of her. The energy surged forward toward Machamp.
In the games, Power Split always lands. It doesn't cause damage, but if it hits Machamp, it should count as a successful move, right? Chris reasoned.
But reality delivered a harsh lesson.
"Machamp, block it," Vladimir said calmly.
Machamp crossed its arms over its chest. A faint blue aura surrounded its body. Chris blinked. Is that... Aura? His eyes widened in disbelief.
The shimmering blue light wrapped Machamp protectively, neutralizing the red orb instantly. The energy orb was crushed and scattered as though it were nothing.
Power Split had failed.
"What?! Is that even possible?" Chris exclaimed. It was the first time he had seen Aura used in this way.
Vladimir seized the opportunity to explain. "Aura is one of the most fundamental forces in our world, with unmatched versatility among all energies. Not only can it combine with other types of moves, but it can also act as a shield against any type of move, including Psychic-type attacks."
Chris could only nod silently, taking in the lesson. Aura is incredible, he admitted.