Suzune Ends the Battle

And most importantly, what had gotten into this powerhouse today? After freeloading off him for so long, had Honedge finally felt guilty enough to come out and make a token effort?

Or had Gengar dared to bully Lady Misdreavus, leaving Honedge, who was practically her teacher, feeling that his pride was on the line?

A mystery. A real mystery. Everything was a mystery.

Dian thought it over for ages and still reached no conclusion.

Of course, his pensive expression only made him look inscrutable to everyone else.

Morty and Gengar, however, did not care why Dian had given no orders. They launched a fierce assault at once.

Three Shadow Balls came hurtling in. Honedge floated motionless, unfazed, as a blue Barrier rose and blocked all three.

"Protect..."

The corner of Morty's mouth lifted. "How about this, then? Gengar! Dark Pulse!"

"Gar!"

Gengar swept both hands forward. A terrifying black tide surged toward Honedge.

Dian folded his arms and watched calmly without a word. Honedge probably would not listen to him anyway, so he might as well enjoy the show. Too bad there were no sunflower seeds, no popcorn, and no free drinks. Hmm. Poor review. He would give this Gym a bad rating online when he got back.

"Hon!"

Honedge suddenly stood upright. Silver light flashed in his eye, and a red Barrier sprang up, perfectly blocking Gengar's Dark Pulse.

That was not all. Honedge drew a section of his silver blade from its sheath and began to vibrate violently.

Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!

An unbearable Metal Sound instantly filled the battlefield.

"Gar..."

Even Gengar, who had been hiding in empty space, was forced into view.

Each time Honedge drew another section of his blade, a strange light flashed across him, and the dreadful Metal Sound grew harder to bear.

Shing!