"Persian, Iron Body!"
Ron's voice rang out, and Persian immediately activated Iron Body, reinforcing its defense to the maximum.
As the aura of Armament Haki surged forth, Machamp's fists rapidly turned black. With a final punch, it struck Persian square in the chest.
Under the amplifying force of Armament Haki, that single blow shattered Persian's Iron Body technique. Fortunately, the technique absorbed most of the impact, sparing Persian from serious injury.
Still, it was clear—if Machamp could sustain the output of its Armament Haki, even its basic attacks were effectively weaponized techniques.
Let alone when it eventually mastered Armament Haki further—whether Finger Pistol for offense or Iron Body for defense, every move would evolve under the influence of Haki.
"You did great, Machamp. Next, I want you to pour everything into honing your Armament Haki. Your goal—enter the next stage: Emission."
After using his Fighting Aura to treat any hidden injuries Persian might have sustained, Ron patted Machamp's shoulder, visibly excited.
Machamp had already mastered Second Gear, and while Ron didn't expect to reach Third Gear—given the lack of a Gum-Gum Fruit—Fourth Gear still seemed within reach.
That is, if Machamp could master Armament Haki to a truly refined level.
Right now, Machamp had only just begun to wield Armament Haki. Both the intensity and control were still far from adequate.
Machamp nodded, already familiar with Ron's long-term plan for him. That day, when he would fully realize it, felt within reach.
"Let's take a break this afternoon, everyone. We're heading out to help Bellossom reach Elite Four level."
Near noon, Ron gave the command to halt training.
After three days in Sootopolis City, Ron decided it was time for Bellossom to break through.
The moment they heard his voice, Bellossom and the others paused their training without hesitation.
Pupitar, adjusting her flight effortlessly, landed softly next to Ron.
Thanks to consistent training, Pupitar could now maneuver in the air with precision—even mid-battle.
That afternoon marked the first time in three days that Ron left the Pokémon Center, heading back into the forest.
After ensuring no one was nearby, Gardevoir used Teleport to take Ron away in an instant.
"It's time, Bellossom."
Taking out two Grass-type Attribute Plates, Ron gave Bellossom a reassuring nod.
Perhaps because of experience, Ron no longer felt the tension he had during previous evolution breakthroughs.
Bellossom nodded firmly, ready to absorb the energy.
Seeing this, Ron said no more—and the breakthrough began.
Green energy flowed outward, carrying with it an aura of thriving vitality.
...
"Oh? A Pokémon's ascending to Elite Four tier?"
Gazing toward the direction of the breakthrough, Wallace spoke softly.
Milotic gave a graceful nod, its eyes following the surge of energy.
"Never mind—we shouldn't interrupt. They might think we're hostile. Let's wait until they're finished."
Unsurprised by his partner's reasoning, Milotic said nothing more, basking in the calm of the afternoon.
Thanks to Ron's Fighting Aura, what usually challenged even seasoned Trainers—the test of bond strength between Trainer and Pokémon—had never troubled him.
This time was no exception. After easily passing the second phase of the breakthrough, Ron helped Bellossom begin the third.
Sensing that the breakthrough was nearing completion, Wallace and Milotic began walking toward Ron's location.
After all, a newly ascended Elite Four-class Trainer in Sootopolis was something the Sootopolis Gym needed to be aware of—friend or foe, it mattered.
"Congratulations, Bellossom."
Ron opened his eyes at the same time, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.
For a moment, it felt like Sootopolis City was a place that could bring him good fortune. First, Persian had achieved a breakthrough in Life Return, and then Machamp successfully mastered Armament Haki, proving the compatibility of dual-color Haki.
And now, Bellossom had just broken through to the Elite Four tier. If he also counted that blue crystal orb he'd recently acquired, this might just be his fourfold blessing.
"Come back now, Gengar, Lucario."
Ron pulled out two Poké Balls, recalling Gengar and Lucario into them. Without needing another word, Machamp and the others were already standing ready for battle.
"Hello there. I'm Wallace of the Hoenn League. Please, there's no need to be so tense."
Emerging from the forest, Wallace approached with a warm smile, addressing Ron and his team.
A refined air seemed to naturally flow from Wallace, and with his Milotic gracefully at his side, only one phrase sprang to Ron's mind—gallant nobleman.
"Nice to meet you. I'm Ron, from the Kanto region. That was my Bellossom just now—she broke through to the Elite Four level."
Once he'd confirmed Wallace's identity, Ron instinctively relaxed, returning the smile.
"So you're the Ron that Drake of the Elite Four mentioned! I didn't expect to meet you here. In that case, I insist on showing you around Sootopolis City."
Under the wary gazes of Ron's team, Wallace simply laughed and approached.
Given the distance between them, Ron realized he could very well strike down this future Champion of the Hoenn League here and now.
Wallace clearly understood that too. Yet he still chose to approach, even before verifying Ron's identity with certainty.
That took confidence—not only in his own strength, but also in his sense of trust toward others. And Ron could feel that. It was... genuine.
In fact, he was starting to think it wasn't just fourfold luck today—it was fivefold.
"I'd be honored. But before that, I have a request."
As soon as he spoke, Machamp instinctively stepped forward to stand at Ron's side.
"No problem. Then let's—"
"Wait a moment," Ron interjected before Wallace could finish. "I'd like to challenge your Milotic directly. If you would permit it."
"Oh?" Wallace raised an eyebrow. "You're sure? My Milotic fights at Champion level. Surely, you understand the gap in strength here."
Ron met his gaze unwaveringly, his tone sincere.
"I do. And I'm asking for your approval."
"I believe one must face true power if they ever hope to make their own path clearer!"
Wallace studied him carefully, searching for signs of bravado. But Ron's eyes were steady—earnest.
"…Very well. Milotic, prepare for battle."
Now certain of Ron's intent, Wallace gave the signal.
As the battle began, Ron motioned to Persian and the others to back off, clearing enough space for a real clash.
"Go, Machamp! Use Finger Pistol: Evening Elephant!"
Against an opponent of Milotic's caliber, Ron had no intention of holding back.
"Impressive technique pairing. Milotic—Aqua Tail."
Wallace took a moment to observe Machamp's form before giving his command with calm precision.
Milotic spun gracefully, tail sweeping the air.
In a heartbeat, streams of water surged forth, forming a long, elegant dragon tail that lashed out—striking directly against the thrust of Machamp's Finger Pistol: Evening Elephant.
CRACK!
The clash echoed through the clearing.
Machamp's powerful technique—Evening Elephant—shattered under the sheer force of Milotic's Aqua Tail.
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