Swampert's appearance was like a shining star, instantly drawing the attention of the Pokémon League's leading figures in the guest seats.
Their previously subdued expressions brightened at once. Professor Oak, who had always been curious about Yong's Pokémon, even sat up straight, anticipation gleaming in his eyes.
Meanwhile, Cynthia, Caitlin, Master Wallace, and the others who had either faced Yong or witnessed Swampert's fierce battles gradually lost their smiles, their expressions turning grave and solemn.
Now, in her capacity as Sinnoh League Champion, Cynthia regarded Yong and Swampert as opponents worthy of serious attention. Like the other Trainers, she looked forward to seeing firsthand just how powerful Swampert had become!
On the battlefield, Miss Diantha finally recovered her composure.
Although the boy's resolve had deeply shaken her, she was equally determined to win!
After all, the outcome was still undecided. Anything was possible!
Sensing both sides' soaring fighting spirit, the referee swept his hawklike gaze over the two Pokémon, then called out,
"Swampert versus Gardevoir! Begin!"
At that moment, the entire battlefield seemed to ignite, the tension reaching its peak.
A blue-green glow enveloped Yong, his aura steady and imposing. Mist wreathed Swampert, a change brought about by the spreading dampness.
The boy spoke first,
"Swampert!!! We'll make the first move! Liquidation!"
At Yong's shout, Swampert leaned forward slightly. Water vapor seethed, and moisture surged!
"Laa-chi!"
Swampert gave a low growl, its muscles instantly bulging. The guileless look on its face vanished, replaced by a savage hunger for battle!
A burning fighting spirit flashed in its eyes. The air churned as its explosive aura erupted.
Whoooosh...
A pitch-black water veil descended like night, shrouding the entire field in the suffocating depths of an abyssal sea. Terrifying waves swept from the ground toward the sky, their overwhelming pressure preventing Gardevoir's psychic