The golden current crackled as it surged toward Gyarados. Despite its Elite-level strength, Gyarados was still a wild Pokémon, lacking the structured training and optimized nutrition that Boss Lairon had received. As a result, its body momentarily locked up under the electric surge.
Seeing the incoming Thunderbolt, Gyarados struggled to regain mobility, managing to twist slightly to the side. However, it was a fraction too slow.
The Thunderbolt struck its serpentine body, sending a violent jolt of electricity through its nerves. The massive Water/Flying-type Pokémon let out a deep, pained roar that echoed across the battlefield. Its type disadvantage against Electric-type moves made the attack devastating. If Boss Lairon had stronger Special Attack, the damage would have been even greater.
"Gyarados is entering Rage," Aoki noted, observing its now bloodshot eyes. The fury-induced state made it reckless but also increased its offensive power.
The enraged Gyarados roared and lunged forward, its enormous body surging toward Boss Lairon. The aggressive movement suggested it was using either Thrash or Outrage. Aoki didn't hesitate.
"Boss Lairon, hold your ground and use Thunder Punch!"
Boss Lairon stood firm, extending its sturdy arm. Sparks of golden lightning flickered around its fist as it braced for impact.
With a deafening crash, Gyarados slammed into Boss Lairon, its sheer mass forcing Lairon back. Aoki narrowed his eyes—Boss Lairon was pushed slightly, but it was still standing. The Rock/Steel-type had one of the highest physical defenses among his team, and it wasn't going to fall so easily.
Boss Lairon roared and swung its electrified fist, landing a direct hit on Gyarados's skull. The powerful Thunder Punch sent a fresh wave of electricity coursing through the sea serpent's body.
Gyarados crashed into the ground, creating a deep crater upon impact. It writhed for a moment before going still, breathing heavily.
Even with its resilience, it had reached its limit. The repeated Electric-type attacks had overwhelmed its endurance. It could still move, but barely.
"Boss Lairon, let's finish this! One more Thunder Punch!"
Boss Lairon's arm sparked once more as it slammed its electrified fist into Gyarados. This time, the impact was decisive. The Elite-level Gyarados let out one last, guttural groan before its body went limp.
"It's over," Kamizrei exhaled in relief. She had been on edge throughout the battle, fearing that Gyarados's raw power might overwhelm Boss Lairon. But Aoki had controlled the battle perfectly.
Aoki nodded and pulled out an empty Poké Ball.
"Go, Poké Ball!"
The red-and-white sphere struck the unconscious Gyarados, opening up and converting its form into light. The ball shook once… twice… three times… before clicking shut.
A capture.
Aoki quickly accessed his Pokémon Storage System, ensuring Gyarados wouldn't be automatically transferred. He needed a strong Water-type to navigate the ocean, and Gyarados was the best choice. While Greninja was agile, it lacked the sheer strength to carry two people across long distances.
After some thought, Aoki decided to temporarily send Electivire back to Professor Birch's lab. With the nutritional supplements and Energy Cubes he regularly sent, Electivire would remain in peak condition even while away.
Now, it was time to check his rewards. He opened the system's battle log but frowned—there was no Diamond Treasure Chest.
"Looks like I need Gyarados's full approval," Aoki mused. Unlike standard Pokémon captures, this challenge required mutual acknowledgment, much like a Gym battle.
He released Gyarados from its Poké Ball and immediately activated his Aura of Viridian. A warm, soothing energy enveloped the sea dragon, rapidly healing its injuries.
Kamizrei had suspected Aoki possessed a rare ability, but she chose not to ask. She respected his secrets.
Gyarados stirred, its massive form shifting slightly. Its rage had subsided, replaced by a strange sense of warmth. Even though it had been defeated, it didn't feel resentment.
Boss Lairon, still standing beside Aoki, tensed up, ready to subdue Gyarados if necessary. Its sharp eyes locked onto the sea serpent, sending a clear warning: any sudden movement, and it would strike.
Aoki, however, remained calm. He reached out and placed a hand on Gyarados's rough head.
"It's okay. I know you won't hurt me," he said gently. "We're going to be friends."
Gyarados hesitated but didn't resist. The warmth from Aoki's aura was strangely comforting. It didn't understand why, but it felt safe.
"Hungry?" Aoki asked, pulling out Energy Cubes. "Here, eat up."
Not just for Gyarados—he also handed some to Boss Lairon.
The sea dragon sniffed the cubes, then devoured them eagerly. The flavor was unlike anything it had ever tasted, far better than the raw fish it was used to.
Boss Lairon, meanwhile, sat down and chomped on its own cubes. Halfway through its meal, it noticed Gyarados had already finished and was eyeing its portion.
If this had been any other Pokémon, Boss Lairon would have ignored it. But after a brief moment of contemplation, it let out a gruff "Dora…" and pushed half of its food toward Gyarados.
Gyarados's eyes widened before it let out a pleased rumble, happily eating the offered cubes.
Aoki smiled. The bond was forming.
"How about it, Gyarados? Want to travel with me? I'll make sure you always have good food," Aoki said with a grin.
Gyarados's eyes gleamed with understanding. It had been stuck on this island for too long, living the same repetitive life. A chance to explore the world, to grow stronger, and to eat well?
The decision wasn't hard.
With a low, approving rumble, Gyarados gently nudged Aoki's arm—its way of saying "Yes."
At that moment, a shimmering Diamond Treasure Chest materialized before him.
Aoki smirked.
"Looks like we have a deal."
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