Chapter - 31

3rd person POV –

Sinnoh League Top 16 Battle

Jordan Smith vs. Akira Tanaka

The sun hung high over the packed Sinnoh League stadium. The crowd excitedly buzzed as the announcer's voice echoed across the arena.

Announcer: "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Top 16 round of the Sinnoh League! Today's match features Jordan Smith of Sandgem Town against Akira Tanaka of Johto! Jordan, known for his undefeated run, brings his powerhouse team to face Akira, a rising star from Johto with an equally impressive lineup!"

The massive video screen displayed images of both trainers, their confident faces framed by their respective regions' insignias.

The Trainers Enter

Jordan walked into the arena, his expression calm but focused. Behind him, a swirl of cheers erupted from fans who had followed his journey. Clad in his signature navy blue jacket and silver headband, he exuded quiet confidence.

On the opposite side, Akira strode in, his fiery red scarf trailing behind him. His eyes were sharp, scanning Jordan's side of the field.

Akira (thinking): He hasn't lost a single Pokémon in the entire tournament. That changes today.

The Battle Begins

Referee: "This is a six-on-six battle! Only the challenger may substitute Pokémon. Let the battle begin!"

The crowd roared as both trainers reached for their first Poké Balls.

Round 1: Bronzong vs. Blaziken

Jordan tossed his Poké Ball first.

Jordan: "Bronzong, to the field!"

The metallic bell Pokémon floated gracefully, its massive size gleaming under the sunlight.

Akira: "Blaziken, let's heat things!"

Blaziken erupted onto the field, its fiery aura igniting cheers.

Announcer: "An intriguing matchup! Jordan starts with Bronzong, while Akira counters with Blaziken!"

Blaziken darted forward with Blaze Kick, flames streaking behind it.

Jordan: "Bronzong, use Trick Room!"

Just as Blaziken closed in, Bronzong's eyes glowed, and the battlefield warped. Blaziken's incredible speed suddenly became its weakness.

Akira: "What?!"

Jordan: "Now, Gyro Ball!"

Bronzong spun at blinding speed, slamming into Blaziken with devastating force. The blow sent Blaziken tumbling.

Akira: "Blaziken, get up and use Flare Blitz!"

Blaziken roared, charging in flames, but it was too slow.

Jordan: "Finish it with Psychic."

Bronzong's telekinetic energy lifted Blaziken and slammed it into the ground, knocking it out.

Referee: "Blaziken is unable to battle!"

Round 2: Gardevoir vs. Ampharos

Akira's frustration showed as he called back Blaziken.

Akira: "Ampharos, your turn!"

The electric Pokémon appeared, its tail glowing brightly.

Jordan recalled Bronzong and sent out his Gardevoir, whose elegant demeanor masked incredible power.

Akira: "Ampharos, Thunderbolt!"

Jordan: "Gardevoir, Calm Mind."

Ampharos unleashed a surge of electricity, but Gardevoir absorbed it with grace, her body glowing as she powered up.

Jordan: "Now, Psychic!"

Gardevoir unleashed a massive telekinetic blast, slamming Ampharos into the ground.

Akira: "Ampharos, get up and use Dragon Pulse!"

The energy beam struck Gardevoir, but she remained standing.

Jordan: "Moonblast."

A dazzling beam of light overwhelmed Ampharos, knocking it out.

Referee: "Ampharos is unable to battle!"

Round 3: Gallade vs. Tyranitar

Akira sent out his ace, Tyranitar. The massive Pokémon's roar shook the battlefield.

Jordan countered with Gallade, whose blade-like arms shimmered in the sun.

Akira: "Tyranitar, Stone Edge!"

Jordan: "Gallade, Close Combat!"

Gallade weaved through the sharp stones, landing a series of powerful strikes on Tyranitar. The super-effective hits left Akira's ace reeling.

Akira: "Tyranitar, Earthquake!"

The ground shook violently, but Gallade leaped into the air.

Jordan: "Finish it with Leaf Blade!"

Gallade's blade glowed green as it delivered a final strike, knocking out Tyranitar.

Referee: "Tyranitar is unable to battle!"

Round 4: Magnezone vs. Kingdra

Akira's Kingdra entered next, its sleek form ready for battle.

Jordan brought out Magnezone, its metallic body crackling with electricity.

Akira: "Kingdra, Hydro Pump!"

The powerful stream of water struck Magnezone, but it stood firm.

Jordan: "Thunderbolt."

Magnezone retaliated with a massive bolt of electricity, striking Kingdra hard.

Akira: "Kingdra, Dragon Pulse!"

The attack barely fazed Magnezone.

Jordan: "Zap Cannon."

The electrified sphere hit Kingdra directly, paralyzing it and knocking it out.

Referee: "Kingdra is unable to battle!"

Round 5: Absol vs. Scizor

Akira's Scizor came out, its pincers snapping menacingly.

Jordan sent out Absol, whose dark fur shone brilliantly.

Akira: "Scizor, Bullet Punch!"

Scizor darted forward, but Absol dodged effortlessly.

Jordan: "Night Slash."

Absol's claws glowed as it struck Scizor with precision, forcing it back.

Akira: "X-Scissor!"

Scissors blades clashed with Absol's claws in an intense exchange.

Jordan: "Psycho Cut."

The psychic energy slash overwhelmed Scizor, knocking it out.

Referee: "Scizor is unable to battle!"

Round 6: Metagross vs. Gardevoir

Akira's last Pokémon was his own Gardevoir, and Jordan sent out his ace, Metagross.

Akira: "Gardevoir, Shadow Ball!"

The attack struck Metagross, but it stood firm.

Jordan: "Meteor Mash."

Metagross's glowing fist slammed into Gardevoir, sending it flying.

Akira: "Gardevoir, use Moonblast!"

The attack grazed Metagross, who shrugged it off.

Jordan: "Finish it with Zen Headbutt."

Metagross's head glowed with psychic energy as it charged forward, knocking Gardevoir out.

Referee: "Gardevoir is unable to battle! The winner is Jordan Smith!"

The crowd erupted into cheers.

Announcer: "What an incredible display of power and strategy! Jordan Smith advances to the Top 8 without losing a single Pokémon!"

Akira approached Jordan with a handshake.

Akira: "You're the real deal. Good luck in the next round."

Jordan: "Thanks. You were great out there."

As Jordan left the battlefield, he glanced back at the roaring crowd. He knew the road ahead would only get tougher, but for now, he savored the victory.

As the referee declared Jordan the winner, the crowd erupted into deafening applause and cheers. Fans from all corners of the Sinnoh region waved flags, held banners, and chanted Jordan's name.

Spectator 1: "Did you see that Metagross? It didn't even flinch against Gardevoir's attacks!"

Spectator 2: "Jordan's strategies are just unreal! He hasn't lost a single Pokémon this entire tournament!"

Spectator 3: "Metagross was a tank, but that Gallade! The way it took down Tyranitar was just beautiful!"

Several younger trainers in the audience were wide-eyed, clearly inspired by Jordan's battle.

Young Trainer: "I want to train a Metagross just like Jordan's someday!"

Some fans discussed Akira's performance with admiration despite his loss.

Spectator 4: "Akira gave it his all, but Jordan's just on another level right now."

Live TV Commentary

Announcer: "What an electrifying match, ladies and gentlemen! Jordan Smith has shown once again why he's considered one of the strongest rising trainers in the Sinnoh region!"

The camera panned to the commentary team, who were equally impressed.

Commentator 1: "Jordan's undefeated streak is something we rarely see, especially at this level of competition. He's proving that his strength isn't just luck—it's skill, training, and an incredible bond with his Pokémon."

Commentator 2: "Let's not forget Akira Tanaka from Johto. He pushed hard, but Jordan's Pokémon were just too strong and too well-coordinated. That Trick Room setup with Bronzong was a game-changer."

The broadcast replayed highlights from the battle, showcasing Gallade's Close Combat against Tyranitar and Metagross's Zen Headbutt that sealed the victory.

Announcer: "Jordan advances to the Top 8, and the question on everyone's mind is: can anyone stop him?"

Poké-Net Reactions

On the online forums, social media, and livestream comment sections, fans couldn't stop talking about the match.

@BattleFanatic

"Jordan's Metagross is a MONSTER! The way it tanked Moonblast like it was nothing? Insane!"

@SinnohEliteTrainer

"I don't think we've ever seen a trainer dominate like this in the Sinnoh League. The dude's Pokémon are bigger, stronger, and smarter than everyone else's!"

@JohtoPride

"Akira fought well, but let's be real: Jordan is in a league of his own. I can't believe he hasn't lost a single Pokémon yet!"

@TrainerGoals

"Watching Jordan makes me want to train harder. His strategies are next-level!"

Some fans speculated about Jordan's background and training methods.

@ConspiracyDexter

"How is his Pokémon THAT big and THAT strong? Is he feeding them special food? Training them in gravity chambers?!"

@LeagueAnalyst

"Jordan's use of Trick Room, countering type advantages, and his Pokémon's sheer power make him the favorite to win the entire tournament. Bookmark this tweet."

Memes about Jordan's dominance began circulating:

A picture of a trainer hiding behind their Pokémon with the caption: "When you see Jordan Smith on the bracket."

A photoshopped image of Jordan's Metagross towering over buildings with the text: "Sinnoh's new skyscraper."

Fan Reactions Post-Match

In the League's viewing lounges and local Poké-Centres, fans replayed the highlights.

Fan 1: "That Gallade sliced through Tyranitar like butter! How do you even counter that?"

Fan 2: "Akira tried, but Jordan's Pokémon are just built differently. They're massive and so well-trained!"

Fan 3: "If Jordan keeps this up, he might go all the way. I'm rooting for him in the Top 8!"

Other trainers in the Sinnoh League were paying close attention.

Trainer 1 (watching a replay): "That's his third battle in a row where he didn't lose a single Pokémon. He's on fire."

Trainer 2: "His Metagross is unstoppable. I hope I don't face him in the bracket."

Trainer 3 (smirking): "He's strong, no doubt, but let's see how he handles the pressure in the later rounds."

Jordan's victory over Akira solidified his position as a top contender for the Sinnoh League championship. Fans, commentators, and trainers alike marveled at his skill and the power of his Pokémon. The question on everyone's mind: who can rise to the challenge and stop his seemingly unstoppable streak?

Lily and James Smith POV –

Lily Smith sat with her husband, James, in the stands, surrounded by the roaring cheers of the Sinnoh League crowd. Her eyes glistened with pride as she watched her son Jordan stand victorious on the battlefield.

Lily (smiling): "That's our boy, James. Look at him. He's not just strong—he's strategic, calm, and so connected to his Pokémon."

James, leaning forward with his arms crossed, gave a proud but subtle nod. His expression rarely betrayed much emotion, but today, he couldn't hide the small smile forming at the edge of his lips.

James: "I knew he'd be good, but this? Dominating trainers like this in the League at his age? He's exceeding even my expectations."

Lily chuckled softly, nudging her husband.

Lily: "You know he gets that from you. Your meticulous training style—he's mirrored it perfectly. But the heart he puts into his Pokémon? That's all me."

As the battle replayed on the big screen, showing Metagross landing its final Zen Headbutt on Akira's Tyranitar, Lily clasped her hands together.

Lily: "Do you think he knows how proud we are?"

James turned to her, his voice softer than usual.

James: "He knows. But maybe we should tell him a little more often."

The Ketchum Family POV –

Ash sat on the edge of his seat, his fists clenched in excitement as he watched Metagross overpower Tyranitar. His cousin Jordan's name was on everyone's lips, and Ash couldn't contain his enthusiasm.

Ash (yelling): "Jordan is AMAZING! Did you see how he predicted that Earthquake and countered with Trick Room? I want to battle like that someday!"

Delia Ketchum, sitting beside her son, placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, smiling warmly.

Delia: "Patience, Ash. You'll have your time to shine. But yes, your cousin is incredible. The bond he has with his Pokémon is something truly special."

Ash bounced in his seat, already imagining himself in the Sinnoh League someday.

Ash: "When I start my journey, I'm going to train harder than ever! Just like Jordan!"

Delia laughed, her voice full of maternal pride.

Delia: "Well, you'll have to be up early for that, young man. Training starts with discipline."

Professor Oak and the Oak Family POV –

Professor Oak sat with Blue, Yellow, Garry, and Daisy, his eyes sparkling with admiration as he scribbled notes into a small notebook.

Professor Oak: "Jordan's Metagross is a phenomenon. Its power, its size—it's unlike anything I've seen outside of top-tier champions."

Blue leaned back in his chair, smirking.

Blue: "Looks like we've got another rising star in the family rivalry. Ash better watch out; Jordan's setting the bar pretty high."

Daisy nodded in agreement, her voice calm but enthusiastic.

Daisy: "Jordan's battles aren't just powerful; they're poetic. He's thinking three steps ahead every time."

Professor Oak looked over at Ash, noticing the young Ketchum was practically vibrating with excitement.

Professor Oak (to himself): "It won't be long before Ash is out there too, chasing his dream. These Ketchum's—always full of surprises."

Gary Oak POV –

Gary leaned forward, his eyes fixed on the big screen.

Gary (grinning): "Jordan's a beast. His Pokémon are monsters, and his strategies are genius. If I ever face him in a league, I'm going to need to step up my game."

He glanced over at Ash, who was cheering loudly and smirked.

Gary: "You better watch closely, Ashy-boy. If you think you're going to outdo Jordan, you've got a lot of work to do."

Ash Ketchum POV –

Ash's mind raced as he replayed the battle in his head, imagining himself in Jordan's shoes.

Ash (to himself): "When I start my journey, I'm going to catch Pokémon just as strong. I'll train with them every day, just like Jordan does. And one day, I'll be the one standing there, with everyone cheering for me."

He clenched his fists in determination, a fire in his eyes.

Ash: "I'm going to be a Pokémon Master, just like Jordan's going to be the Sinnoh League Champion!"

Jordan POV –

As Jordan walked through the quiet corridors of the League stadium, his Pokémon beside him, he turned to his Metagross, patting its steel body.

Jordan (smiling): "You guys were amazing out there. Every one of you. Metagross, that final move—you were unstoppable."

His Gallade, Magnezone, and Absol each let out content sounds, their exhaustion replaced with pride.

Jordan: "We've come so far, but the journey isn't over yet. Next is the Top 8. We're going to face even tougher opponents. But we've got this."

He paused, glancing at his Poké-Nav, which displayed his next opponent: Riley Martin, a trainer from the Hoenn region specializing in fighting types.

Jordan: "Riley's got a strong team, but we've faced tough battles before. We'll study his strategies, train hard, and show everyone what we're made of."

With his Pokémon cheering alongside him, Jordan set his sights on the next challenge, confident and ready for the battles to come.