Josh stared intensely toward the wrestling Swampert as the water-type absorbed the force behind not only the high speed charge, but having to do it with a limb that was probably numb from the ice! The resulting stretching of Elinor's Pokémon looked painful, Saber writhing to try to get free before the ensuing point-blank HYDRO PUMP came. The sheer power of one of the strongest Water-type attacks was difficult to control under normal circumstances, but at such short range, this wasn't missing the electric wolf. The attack sent the Manectric rocketing toward the corner of the battleground and ultimately out of bounds.

Elinor was a tough opponent. At a future date, he wouldn't mind having a battle against her with his full squad and not having to follow IAPL Gym Challenge regulations. "I yield." Josh withdrew his Manectric, the hydraulics powering the Trainer's boxes lowering them to the ground. Walking across the arena on foot, something he didn't do very often, he met Elinor in the center or at her Trainer's box, whichever she preferred.

"Recalling the moment we fought alongside one another at Fortree's shrine to Raikou, a feeling tugged deep inside me that this would be the outcome of today's Challenge," Josh said with a solemn tone; he was probably being a bit overdramatic, but Elinor had a special place in his heart. From his pocket, he procured a small, metallic object that looked like a checkered flag with a yellow lightning bolt overlaid atop it. "Elinor, you are a formidable ally and a more formidable opponent. You should be proud of your performance today. You are now a qualified rider." He gestured toward his close friend, the Badge in the palm of his hand. "Wear the Hoenn Minor League's Quick Badge with pride. It's yours."

Swampert readies Hydro Pump!
Manectric has fallen.