"That really was the quickest battle since I started challenging the Elite Four! Still... thanks for your hard work, Absol. Get some rest now!" Liu Qing gave a faint, wry smile. On the surface, Agatha had used Curse to secure a cheap win in the first battle, but her selection and use of moves throughout had perfectly embodied cunning, bringing out the unspoken terror of Ghost-types. It was a testament to her strength. Moreover, had he not snapped Absol out of its mounting fear in time, Absol would certainly have lost. Liu Qing grew even more wary of Agatha. After recalling Absol, he tossed his second Poké Ball into the sky with a flick of his hand. "Honchkrow, you're up!"
As the Poké Ball opened, an invigorating cry rang out. Honchkrow appeared on the battlefield, beating its wings and fixing a sharp gaze on the opposite side. Its pointed beak gleamed coldly in the sunlight.
"My older brother finally brought it out!" Liu Yuan's eyes lit up. Dark-types naturally had an advantage against Ghost-types, and with Honchkrow's Flying-type attribute as well, he already felt that Liu Qing's next victory was within reach before the battle had even begun.
"Honchkrow, huh? I wonder whether mine is stronger, or yours, Liu Qing!" In Yuexia Village in Johto, Han Ye spoke with a wicked grin. He admitted that he was no match for Liu Qing overall, but that did not mean he believed he would lose if they both battled with Dark-type Pokémon. Liu Qing's handling of Absol just now had only made him scoff.
In Veilstone City in Sinnoh, Paul silently released his own Honchkrow, his eyes fixed on the live broadcast on television with a faint trace of fervent longing.
"I see. That's quite a fine Honchkrow. Then I'll... leave this