MARCH UPDATE

POSTED ON Mar 21, 2023 22:28:45 GMT

Alec grinned at Isaac's choice of words. It was apparent that he had a natural understanding of the educational purpose of his Gym was. In all honesty, it was one of the easiest for a Pokemon Trainer to know the meaning behind it. However, what most trainers fail to realize though was that just because they know about it doesn't mean that they understand it. Thankfully though, Alec didn't seem to have to hash that out with Isaac. In fact, because of that, Alec had officially confirmed to himself that Isaac was more than likely going to be his most favorable gym challenge ever. And the sad part was that this was Alec's first challenge to his new gym!

Alec was somewhat disappointed that he had to take down the shiny as well as the newly evolved Braixen so soon in the match. That meant that Isaac had three pokemon left. His Metagross was now in battle, his severely weakened Scolipede that had been switched out with the Metagross thanks to its BATON PASS, and last but not least, the pokemon that Isaac was now going to reveal. His fourth pokemon - a Paldean Tauros. Judging by the bluish specs within the black fur, Alec suspected that it was a water-type-bred tauros. Alec at first didn't know much about them, but he did know at least that much. There was even a fire-type bred one, as well as an ordinary fighting type.

Luna the Espeon read the movements as well as listened to Isaac's words to it carefully, having picked up on how they communicate with one another. Luna wasn't sure if this was going to work, but she decided to try anyway. She quickly lept in front of Maximus, and once the red jewel on her forehead glowed, she knew that she had made the right move. It reflected the Tauros's own SWAGGER back at it, making it confuse itself rather than confusing Maximus, allowing him to focus solely on the incoming Psychic Attack, swiftly changing its STANCE to its sword form, then shot itself forward with the tip of the blade first, piercing through the fiery debris that the Metagross launched at like it were a slab of butter while gunning for the Metagross's central part of it's left front leg with SACRED SWORD.

Sure, Maximus was damaged, but not nearly as bad. Alec was even certain that even if it took on the Metagross's PSYCHIC attack head-on. Just as Maximus was making his mark on the Metagross, Luna then proceeded to attack the confused Tauros with her own PSYCHIC, sending an intangible burst of Psychic energy at it.

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Luna jumps in front of Maximus, having anticipated what the Tauros was going to do, using its ability Magic Bounce to reflect the Water-bred Tauros's Swagger back at it, confusing it instead.

- Maximus is then allowed to focus solely on the Metagross, piercing through the PSYCHIC debris having been thrown at it with Sacred Sword, aiming for the Metagross's central part of its front left leg.

- Meanwhile, just as Maximus started to attack and after reflecting Tauros's own Swagger back at it, Luna the Espeon attacked the confused Tauros with its own Psychic attack.

Isaac Merlo

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POSTED ON Mar 23, 2023 3:16:59 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]Whoa.[break][break]

Whoa. Whoa. Whoa.[break][break]

That Espeon just stole his groove![break][break]

Buffaloman blinked rapidly from the mix of surprise and outrage as the Espeon ignored his Swagger. And then he felt that outrage seep right into his brain. How dare! Did that Espeon know who he was? He was the Silph Cup racing champion, damnit! He was the great and undefeated Buffaloman! He was still riding the high of meteor waves from four months ago, and he was not letting that stride get broken![break][break]

Isaac groaned as he realized why Buffaloman was so worked up. Much like his own Vivi, this Espeon could bounce back status effects, and now Buffaloman was raging over his own Swagger.[break][break]

"Omega, make sure he doesn't do anything stupid!" Isaac said, hoping that his massively souped-up megabeast would be able to hold the line. Luckily, he obliged, spreading his legs wide and leaning into the incoming strikes. The Psychic meant for Buffaloman did little in the face of his supercomputer mind, though Buffaloman's thrashing left him too distracted to pull away from the Sacred Sword in time. It hit his leg dead-on, leaving the Metagross' stance somewhat uneven.[break][break]

Buffaloman's rage was building, especially after his horns kept bouncing off of Omega's back. Isaac knew at any moment, the Tauros would lose its shit and start rampaging through the stadium.[break][break]

Maybe that was what he wanted it to do.[break][break]

He held his arm high, his sleeve rolling down to reveal a Mega Brace beneath it. The keystone embedded in its center still remained inert, but meteoric energy started resonating through its gridlike framework. As pure power surged through his wrist, Isaac threw up the horns like he was leading a heavy metal concert. "You wanna rage, Buffaloman?"[break][break]

"Then let's fucking rage!!"[break][break]

Z-Power flowed from Isaac's brace, surging into Buffaloman's body. His eyes, already bloodshot from the Swagger, were now glowing neon. His thick, luxurious mane bristled out on all sides, making him look enormous. If there was anything Isaac could trust Buffaloman to do in this state, it was to run forward and do some serious carnage. They could worry about the side effects after.[break][break]

Buffaloman stamped the ground once. Omega scuttled out of the way, towards Maximus' left side.[break][break]

Buffaloman stamped the ground again. Omega began to pulse, another ripple of Psychic energy launching from around him. This one was aimed not at Maximus, but instead directly at the space to his right, a wall of mental power he'd need to push through if he wanted to escape.[break][break]

Buffaloman stamped the ground a final time, and Isaac thrust his horned fist forward. "Olé!" he cheered, and Buffaloman saw red. In a furious clatter of hellish bellows and stampeding hoofbeats, he charged towards both of his foes. Water tore forth from his horns, making it look like they had swelled to an immense size. No defense, not a Magic Bounce nor the legendary King's Shield, could break the force of his Ten Million Power Stampede.[break][break]

TAUROS (PALDEAN AQUA BREED) : TEN MILLION POWER STAMPEDE - ISAAC MERLO: WATER-TYPE.  A physical attack so strong that it shatters protective moves and disables them for a period of time. pokemon that follow behind tauros will be sped up for a turn.

[break][break]

Omega had tried to force his foes into an alleyway, one blockade of body and one blockade of mind. Buffaloman was channeling the power-spiking rage of his Swagger into his strongest ever move. Were this plan to be a success, Isaac knew that his foes would be pushed to their very limits.[break][break]

Unfortunately, he'd also have an already-berserk Pokemon running wild off of a flood of Z-Power. He could kiss any ability to control Buffaloman goodbye for the rest of this battle. This was going to be quite the pickle to unstick himself from.[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Buffaloman eats his own Swagger. Attack spikes, but at the cost of a berserk rage.[break]
Omega has a heck of a time, being jostled from behind, lightly rattled by a Psychic, and taking a hobbling Sacred Sword to the leg.[break]
Not wanting to just be attacked, Omega plays support, blocking Team Alec's left side with his large body and their right side with a rush of psychic force.[break]
With his foes locked in an "alley," Buffaloman charges forward, Z-Power and berserk rage guiding his Ten Million Power Stampede.[break]

[break][break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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POSTED ON Mar 23, 2023 19:13:10 GMT

Alec couldn't help but smirk once again when he saw how Espeon the Paldean Tauros's own SWAGGER. Surely that'd anger the brazen bull. That was when Isaac revealed a trump card, raising his arm high, the sleeve falling down somewhat to reveal a Mega Brace, however, he wasn't mega evolving the Metagross. Instead, he was preparing to use a Z-move. "So, he's using a Z-Move, and judging from the looks of it, it's powering up the Tauros," Alec said, carefully analyzing the energy pouring out of it; gathering around the confused bull. It then broke loose, running straight forward into a raging stampede, water gushing forth from its hooves as it charged.

Meanwhile, before the Tauros began to charge, the Metagross used its PSYCHIC powers to form an unseeable barrier to Luna and Maximus's right while using its long steel legs to block the left side. Despite the Metagross's legs being uneven due to Maximus's SACRED SWORD attack from a few seconds ago, it still managed to hold both of them. However, Maximus wasn't going to stand there idly by and be trapped. Its own shadow formed over its entire body shield and all, passing through the Metagross at its center with a SHADOW SNEAK, then took a long as well as wide turn to the right, well beyond the Psychic wall that was formed.

Luna could still sense the Psychic wall still being up, keeping her from escaping. Despite the inevitable, Luna's eyes glowed, unleashing a PSYCHIC blast at full power onto the incoming Tauros before it was trampled on. Alec knew that Luna would not be able to survive the attack, despite unleashing her own at full power. Alec swiftly took Luna's Pokeball from her belt, waiting for the dust from the collision to settle before returning the fainted Espeon.

"You've done an incredible job, Luna. Rest up! You deserve it," Alec smiled at Luna's Pokeball before Alec's face grew serious once more. After all, this battle was still not yet done. While Isaac seemed to have the advantage, his Metagross was starting to weaken, especially after Maximus having passed straight through it with its SHADOW SNEAK. Then, there was also the Tauros, who despite managing to take down Luna, also took a rather nasty hit from her own attack.

"Isaac," Alec called out to him, his voice loud enough for not only Isaac to hear him, but the people in the stands watching. "You said that Metagross was your strongest, right?" Alec asked rhetorically, a smirk forming. "Well, you're about to meet mine," Alec said, grabbing another pokeball that was strapped to his belt. "And if you think Luna was a problem," Alec said as he tossed the pokeball out in front of him; a black Charizard materializing in front of him, "Then surely Inferno will definitely make you sweat!" Inferno let out a powerful roar, its wing spreading out wide, asserting its dominance, making the crowd go absolutely nuts.

"As I told you earlier, the battle was only just beginning. But now, it's time for your true challenge!"

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Maximus utilizes its Ghost Typing by using Shadow Sneak to not only go through the Metagross but also deal damage to it while safely evading the Water-breed Tauros's Z-Move attack.

- Luna makes one last stand, delivering a fully-powered Psychic attack onto the stampeding Tauros.

- Luna the Espeon faints, prompting Alec to bring out his fourth and final pokemon, Inferno, the shiny Charizard.

Isaac Merlo

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POSTED ON Mar 24, 2023 5:00:57 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]Omega, seeing the shadows spread across Maximus' body, thrust itself back with a push of its powerful legs. At its current velocity, it should be able to outrun the sword with zero problems. Despite this, it approached closer, closer, closer still . . .[break][break]

The Metagross' eyes narrowed. If its calculations were off, it would simply need to adjust the math.[break][break]

Changing tactics, it dug its heels in, then leaped skyward. Electromagnetic charges, polarized against the charge of the stadium floor, pooled into its underbelly. A timely Magnet Rise allowed Omega to make it into the air, narrowly avoiding the Aegislash's incoming technique.[break][break]

However, Omega wouldn't settle for just a flashy dodge. His body was highly polarized, and he was going to use that for all the advantage it was worth. Instead of escaping the Aegislash, he remained hovering over it, following in the blade's arcing turn. If at all possible, he would try to hover over the Aegislash's shield-wielding tassel. If the magnetic pressure he exerted could push both the Aegislash and its King's Shield in opppsite directions, he might have a chance at disarming it.[break][break]

Omega's supercomputer tactics were a stark contrast to the hot mess known as Buffaloman. Psychic power rang his bell something awful, leaving him both weakened and dazed. The pain only served to intensify the berserk rage from his Swagger. Z-Power still streamed from his eyes, the Stampede over but the rush of adrenaline it inspired still beating in his heart. At this point, he could barely think of anything but haphazardly charging around the arena.[break][break]

This was a difficult position to be in, with Alec's mightiest Pokemon hitting the field.[break][break]

"Sheesh, you're not kidding," Isaac side, a wide, appreciative grin spreading across his face as Inferno hit the field. "I can tell how tough he is from all the way over here! For a first-time gym battle, you're really giving this crowd your all."[break][break]

You only had one chance to make a first impression. Both Isaac and Alec had taken that fact to extremes. This would be an opening night that the crowd never forgot.[break][break]

Despite being fresh onto the scene, Inferno wouldn't have to wait long for a challenger. Buffaloman swayed back and forth like a drunkard, trying to keep up with the flame that finally added a splash of red to the battlefield. Water surged from around him on all sides, focusing into a powerful Wave Crash that surged with each hooftbeat.[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Omega uses Magnet Rise to leap over the Shadow Sneak.[break]
Rather than retreat, he tries to use this new magnetic pressure to push down on Maximus and maybe even loosen his grip on his shield.[break]
Buffaloman takes the Psychic; injured, delerious, and enraged, he staggers across the battlefield in a blind fury.[break]
At least Inferno's red flame gives him something to charge in the vague direction of for a Wave Crash.

[break][break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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POSTED ON Mar 24, 2023 17:40:33 GMT

Alec takes a mental note of the Metagross trapping Maximus with its own Magnet Rise. "You and you're pokemon are no joke either. However," Alec pauses as Maximus decides to go with the magnetic pull instead of resisting it while keeping its SHADOW SNEAK up, still managing to launch through the Metagross's central part of its body. "My pokemon will still find a way to counter yours," Alec said.

Meanwhile, before Maximus countered the Metagross, Inferno eyed down the Tauros, seeing the WAVE CRASH forming on its sides, gushing from its sides. As it neared, Inferno's clenched its left hand into a fist, starting to glow orange, and then once the two of them were standing in front of one another, Inferno's DYNAMIC PUNCH and the Tauros's crashing waves collided. Since Inferno had only recently entered into the battle, Alec had no need to worry about him fainting anytime soon.

"Looks like Inferno is saying he can afford to get a bit of water on him." Alec said, smirking. With the way his pokemon were fighting now, Alec's words only rang more true. The real battle had only just begun, and they weren't gonna submit so easily. Plus, Alec had his own Mega Glove as well, which continued to support his earlier statement. Alec did admit though that Isaac and his pokemon were a worthy opponent. It was just a matter of time before either his or Alec's pokemon would make the battle reach's climax; coming to an end.

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Despite being trapped by the Metagross's magnet rise, Maximus holds his Shadow Sneak, allowing Maximus to still attack and slip through the Metagross's own tactic.

- As the Paldean Tauros run's haphazardly around the Arena, Inferno waits for the Paldean Tauros to get close colliding his Dynamic Punch into charging Tauros's Wave Crash. The contact of Inferno's Dynamic Punch ensures that Buffaloman will stay confused.

Isaac Merlo

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POSTED ON Mar 25, 2023 1:22:31 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]"And each time you do, we'll keep finding new tricks to pull out," Isaac countered. As he did, Omega flipped himself over in mid-air, the magnetic fields surrounding his body following suit. Like a strongman throwing an Olympic hammer, the magnetic trajectory that Maximus was riding was being rotated in a circle. Phantom sparks kicked up as the Aegislash brushed past his side, Isaac wincing as he realized that could have lanced straight through Omega's body in any other circumstance.[break][break]

Gravity left the spider-like supercomputer careening to the ground, his three non-ailing arms swiveling to catch him on his way down. The death of a thousand cuts was starting to add up. While he hadn't taken any hits as painful as Pandora or Buffaloman had, Omega was undoubtedly starting to tire.[break][break]

At least he was only starting to tire. The Wave Crash was a technique that hurt the user even in the best of times. Running straight into an incoming fist only worsened that recoil. The Tauros was sent skidding back, damn near tearing a trench into the ground from how hard he tried to dig his heels in and resist.[break][break]

Was it a miracle that kept the Tauros standing? Was it pure adrenaline and stubborn rage? Or was he too punch-drunk to even realize that he should have been unconscious?[break][break]

Whatever the case, steam laced with meteoric energy puffed from the Tauros' nose. He bucked and thrashed and stomped his hooves. He let out a furious bellow, the red of Inferno's flame blaring in his eyes. He-[break][break]

Promptly vanished into a Pokeball.

"Oh no you don't. If you're gonna go all death-and-glory on me, you're taking a breather and making it count," Isaac chided as the Pokeball bounced into his hands. He wasn't wasting his Tauros' fleeting consciousness on getting confused and KOing himself against a wall.[break][break]

Instead, Pandora came back out, the break doing wonders to let the Scolipede shake off some of her fatigue. A manual switch like this was going to break their momentum, and Isaac knew if any of their foes targeted Pandora she would surely go down without much fight.[break][break]

This was why Isaac was going to force the decision for Alec.[break][break]

Omega began to glow, radiating pure power. However, curiously enough, he didn't seem ready to attack. Instead, he scuttled away from Maximus and back towards Pandora, taking a defensive position in front of the Scolipede. Was he about to Mega Evolve? Was he threatening to Explode? Or was this all just a bluff, a flashy show of force to bait out the King's Shield and take attention off of Pandora?[break][break]

"Doesn't matter which one of us runs out of gas first. We're not gonna stop 'til we push you to your limits!" Isaac warned. "Now let's see if Inferno's ready to see what real power feels like."[break][break]

Once his Meteor Beam was ready, Inferno would know the real meaning of pain. But Isaac knew Alec wasn't going to take him charging it lying down.[break][break]

If anything, that fact was exactly what he was hoping for.[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Omega's circular rotation shoves Maximus away before extended contact can be made, but he lands noticeable glancing blow.[break]
Buffaloman takes a very noticeable, not-so-glancing blow, and is now in a world of pain.[break]
Isaac recalls him to clear up his confusion and give him a quick breather, not wanting to waste his last conscious moments.[break]
Instead, out comes Pandora![break]
Knowing that he's thoroughly on the backfoot, Isaac has Omega start charging up a Meteor Beam. That's gotta wait 'til my next post to fire off, though. C'est la vie.[break]

[break][break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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POSTED ON Mar 25, 2023 18:45:50 GMT

Alec stood there quietly, listening to Isaac as he switched out his Tauros back to the Scolipede. A smart move, given the fact that it was still confused. Bringing it back to its Pokeball allowed for it to recover, but that still change the fact that Pandora was severely weakened as well. What's more, is that the smack Maximus received from Omega allowed it to swiftly change who it was attacking. It barreled itself toward Pandora with the tip of its sword, breaking its own SHADOW SNEAK in order to use SACRED SWORD.

Inferno also followed suit after Maximus made its move, its claws glowing green as it too pursued the severely weakened insect. Alec didn't question it, despite the fact that the Metagross was gathering energy to release a METEOR BEAM. Perhaps his pokemon were aware? Either way, with Inferno and Maximus making a pincer tactic on the weakened Pandora, it may be able to dodge at least one of the attacks, but dodging both in the current state it was in was very unlikely. Even if it used BATON PASS, it'd only exchange itself out for Tauros, allowing it to take the heat instead.

Was the Metagross's next attack going to do Inferno in? Or did Inferno have something planned when the time came? Either way, the look in Alec's eyes made it certain that he wanted to see for himself. He trusted his own pokemon's judgments while in battle. That was why he hadn't made a single order to his pokemon, instructing them to use this or that move. He just simply preferred to watch and let them take over. That is how one knows the bond between him and his pokemon.

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Right as soon as Maximus is swatted away by the Metagross, it immediately breaks its Shadow Sneak, changing its target of choice to the Scolipede and making a beeline for the weakened insect with Sacred Sword.

- A few minutes after Maximus makes his bee-line tactic, Inferno swoops in from the other side of the Scolipde with a Dragon Claw.

Isaac Merlo

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April 10

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POSTED ON Mar 27, 2023 1:24:59 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]Unfortunately for Pandora, Maximus' lightning-quick reflexes made it impossible for Omega to intercept him. The Aegislash expertly rode the momentum of Omega's magnetic waves, hurtling right for Pandora's side. Alarmed, the Scolipede curled into a ball to try and protect herself, but to no avail; the Sacred Sword struck true.[break][break]

Had it been any other move, Pandora would have likely been splattered to pieces. However, her toxic blood and protective chitin meant fighting type moves gave her little trouble. Another hit like that could prove decisive, but for the time being she was able to shake herself out of the fade. Her muscles pumped, her dazed tumble sharpening into a Rollout to help her speed away from Maximus.[break][break]

Unfortunately, as Maximus came from one side, Inferno came from the other. This time, Omega snapped into action, boosted speed and a lack of friction allowing it to rocket towards Inferno at great speeds. Even resisted, the claw hurt as it smashed down onto Omega's cranium. The Metagross' body wobbled, and for the second the cosmic power surrounding its body began to ripple and fade.[break][break]

All according to plan. Isaac's Mega Ring began to glow.[break][break]

As Inferno's claw smashed down on Omega's head, he lunged forward with foreclaws of his own. Already on the larger side, they swelled with an infusion of Infinity Energy, growing to damn near twice their size. From below, another two claws manifest as if from thin air; together, the four aimed to surround Inferno from all sides - upper left, lower left, upper right, lower right, like the jaws of a multi-faceted bear trap ready to snap.[break][break]

Yet these were but half of the equation. Omega's lower body swelled and expanded, aiming to drive a spike that had just formed into the Charizard to make sure that the grapple held. From behind, its hindclaws shrank, an identical pair forming beneath them. They tensed and waited at the ready, prepared to try and grab for Inferno if he tried to sweep around Omega and dive for Pandora.[break][break]

When the Infinity Energy passed, Omega had undeniably formed a Mega Metagross. Yet the light of power had yet to disperse.[break][break]

In a way, Omega had sacrificed any higher planning to fall back on its ancestral hunting techniques. Mega Metagross, when faced with insurmountable odds, wrapped themselves around foes and exploded in a rush of pure power. Today's self-destruction technique was different. Inferno was powerful, and his flaming techniques were sure to leave Omega on his last legs if he committed to this course of action. Oh well. So be it. If the two of them took each other out, the rest of Isaac's team may have been able to push their way to victory.[break][break]

In the eye of the inferno, risking grievous, unavoidable damage, Omega unleashed the full force of his Meteor Beam.[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Pandora takes a Sacred Sword on the chin, only quad resistance keeping her alive.[break]
Omega, knowing Dragon Claw would spell her doom, interposes himself between Inferno and Pandora. He takes the hit, but tries to leverage it into a grapple.[break]
Isaac Mega Evolves Omega into a Mega Metagross to aid him in this endeavor.[break]
Freshly empowered, Omega leans into his attempted grapple, risking Inferno's sure retaliation to hit a mega-powered Meteor Beam.

[break][break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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POSTED ON Mar 27, 2023 23:05:01 GMT

Alec couldn’t help but smirk, seeing that Isaac had decided to Mega Evolve the Metagross; attempting to the steel beast grapple Inferno, but what they had not expected was that Inferno had a Protection move of its own, just like Maximus. It's PROTECT formed, pulsing outward in the shape of a dome-like barrier forming around the shiny Charizard, forcing the Mega-evolved metagross to let go shortly before its METEOR BEAM fired. Luckily, Inferno kept the protective dome around it up, using the impact from the beam to force Inferno along with the protective dome around it backward.

Despite the barrier breaking, it was still enough to save Inferno’s life. Meanwhile, Maximus stayed in its sword stance, once again attempting to gun for the weakened Scolipede with yet another SACRED SWORD attack. Alec was surprised that it was managing to keep itself in the battle, despite its own critical condition, but with it being so weakened, it’d only be a matter of time before it fell just like the Braixen.

“You’re probably surprised that Inferno knows a protection move. I’ve trained most if not all of my pokemon to defend themselves just as easily as attacking. I will admit though, that was a close call.” Alec smirked at Isaac. What’s more, was that now the Metagross was now at its peak, knowing that defeating it would be a challenge of its own. Alec had thought that perhaps he too should Mega Evolve Inferno, but the only reason he didn’t was that Inferno seemed to like the challenge, and Mega Evolving him now would mean that it’d ruin his fun. Alec was also aware that Inferno’s PROTECT wasn’t something that could be used continuously, unlike Maximus’s KING’S SHIELD. Alec knew that’d he’d have to resort to using his Mega Glove at some point, but he wanted to see what else the Mega-Evolved Metagross and Isaac had in store for him.

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Inferno uses Protect as a means to not only break free from the Metagross's grapple but to also protect itself from its Meteor Beam.

- Maximus once again guns for the Scolipede with a Sacred Sword attack.

- Alec decides to not mega evolve Inferno at this time, believing that it'd spoil Inferno's 'fun'.

Isaac Merlo

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Turned on my friends and brought them pain. I have no right to show I can change. But I gotta try!

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DOLLARS

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POSTED ON Mar 31, 2023 16:28:29 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]"You've trained 'em really well. I can see why you're a two-time gym leader." Most who left Hoenn's upper echelons made a point of not coming back. Clearly, Alec was built different, and it showed. "All the more reason for me and mine to keep proving ourselves!"[break][break]

Omega roared in frustration as the Protect smothered both his Meteor Beam and a solid third of his Infinity Energy. Between Protect and the King's Shield, it was a worrying possibility that Omega could drop out of his Mega form while having his impact swallowed up by guard after guard. This was a dangerous position to be in.[break][break]

However, he refused to give in to such pessimism. Instead, he focused all of his Psychic power around the fading barrier. The Meteor Beam left his elemental attacks supercharged in its wake, and he intended to bring that power to full bear as soon as Inferno was unprotected once more.[break][break]

While the team's two aces stared each other down, their backups appeared to be engaged in a chase. Isaac raised an eyebrow, confused. Fighting type moves were a poor fit against Pandora's type, and trying to chase the Scolipede down while it kept building up speed would leave it left in the dust. He knew from its duel with Omega that Maximus knew Shadow Sneak, a far faster and more effective move. So why did he keep pushing on with a technique that wouldn't work?[break][break]

The distance widening between Omega and Pandora answered that question perfectly. If his Scolipede kept getting bullied awsy from the main battle, she wouldn't be in any position to inflict her toxin on Inferno. All the while, Pandora thought she was in control of the situation.[break][break]

"Bank for the center!" Isaac warned, directing the rolling bug towards where Inferno had been pushed back. "And attack out of the sun!"[break][break]

Clouds of dust billowed from the Scolipede as her Rollout swerved, practically tipping to one side to try and maneuver around any future counterattacks. Once she shifted directions, she made a beeline towards Inferno. Isaac watched, the world practically slowing down around him. Would Omega be able to hold Inferno down long enough for the big one-two punch?[break][break]

And even if he did, would Alec have another trump card to shock the audience with?[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Omega follows up his Meteor Beam with a boosted Psychic, aimed inwards and downwards to try and keep him held.[break]
Pandora outruns the Sacred Sword, then turns her Rollout towards Inferno so Maximus can't keep isolating her away from the battle.[break]
Isaac braces himself for the pain train he knows is pulling into the station.

[break][break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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POSTED ON Apr 5, 2023 1:32:56 GMT

Alec watched on as the Mega-Evolved Metagross once again attempted to blockade his Charizard. Despite the blockade though Inferno violently opened its maw, firing a powerful BLAST BURN, just as the Scolipede reached a few feet away from it, engulfing the vicinity in front of it with a massive flame. Meanwhile, Maximus changed his target once again, attempting to attack the Metagross with SACRED SWORD, targeting one of its legs.

"Fool me once; shame on me. Fool me twice; shame on you," Alec said to Isaac with a smirk. The intense flames that the Charizard produced wouldn't reach Isaac's Metagross, however, with the Scolipede coming in quickly with its ROLLOUT while Inferno was held down still wasn't enough to stop Charizard from attacking, and BLAST BURN was just as nasty as Nat's FRENZY PLANT from before, possessing more power behind it, and since it was a fire attack. It would make either the Scolipede faint right then and there or it'd use BATON PASS and switch out for the Tauros.

The way Alec's Pokemon were responding flawlessly toward Isaac and his team's Tactics was a clear reflection of their master's, as well as their own resolve to do whatever it took to defeat their enemies. Surely, Isaac had the same resolve reflected back, but them using the same tactics wouldn't get them anywhere. It was also clear that Alec wasn't set on using his Mega Glove still. Perhaps it was his own stubbornness from doing so, or maybe he was waiting for the perfect moment to use it.

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Inferno attacks the incoming Scolipede w/ BLAST BURN!

- Maximus attack the mega-evolved Metagross w/ SACRED SWORD!

- Alec still doesn't attempt to mega evolve his Charizard just yet.

Isaac Merlo

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Wanderer

The Liberator

he/him/his

April 10

Lavaridge Town

Figuring it Out

Penitent

Renegade

Short King height

Turned on my friends and brought them pain. I have no right to show I can change. But I gotta try!

awards

4,402 posts

DOLLARS

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TAG WITH @isaacmerlo

POSTED ON Apr 7, 2023 21:41:42 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]When Isaac prepared for this battle, he had no idea what to expect. This wasn't the minor leagues. This wasn't a close friend that he used to mentor. This wasn't a rival that he'd grown beside and clashed with time and time again. This was a complete and utter stranger, one who had clawed their way to a two-time gym leader position.[break][break]

He had been surprised time and time again. Yet the biggest surprise of all was how many times a single Scolipede could save his bacon.[break][break]

Between the smothering motion of the Rollout and the sheer bulk of the Scolipede's coiled-up body, the relentless flames that could have pushed Omega into the danger zone were instead focused on a nearly-fainted insect. A whistling hiss came from the Scolipede's shell; were this not a League-sanctioned battle, he was pretty sure the hardworking bug would've resembled a pot of lobster bisque by the end.[break][break]

Omega, not willing to let that pain be in vain, took the initiative. He knew that Inferno's . . . well, inferno was a league of magnitude above even a Fire Blast. To even use such a technique would leave it too exhausted to defend itself, giving Omega a single chance to do as much damage as possible before his Mega Evolution came to an end.[break][break]

He abandoned all defense, letting the Sacred Sword hit him full force as he rocketed towards the Charizard. Another of his large legs had been hit hard, but that was okay. Today, the other half of his anatomy would be putting in some legwork.[break][break]

The Metagross rotated in midair, his four smaller back legs spreading out as far as they could. His non-injured forelegs rotated back as well, spreading out wider to account for their longer length. This time, Omega's goal wasn't just to grab the Charizard. It was to pin it to the ground, his legs forming an iron cage to keep it held in place for as long as possible.[break][break]

His body began to resonate with Psychic power, hoping to make the most of what limited time he had. The second Inferno recovered from that Blast Burn, he'd be in for a world of hurt . . .[break][break]

As Omega launched forward, Isaac released his last Pokemon from their ball one last time. "Don't let that sword try any funny business, Buff!" Isaac called. The Tauros burst from his ball in a shower of light, bellowing a furious challenge Maximus' way. Forget the Mega in the room; he'd felled one of Maximus' companions, nearly felled him as well, and now demanded a rematch.[break][break]

With such Swagger in his stance, how could the Aegislash refuse?[break][break]

There were no more tricks. No more tag-outs. Isaac's Z-Move had been spent. His Mega was on its last move. His unexpected MVP had fallen. At this point, it was just down to his best and Alec's best in an all-out brawl. Smiling softly, Isaac returned Pandora to her ball. "You did amazing out there. I couldn't be prouder of you," he said as he tucked the ball away. "Omega, Buffaloman, bring this one home for Pandora!"[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Pandora is practically obliterated by the Blast Burn, leaving Isaac lucky that this isn't a fight to the death.[break]
Omega is hit by the Sacred Sword; still hanging in there, but down to two front legs and the four smaller back legs.[break]
Because of this, Omega attempts to use his heavy weight and smaller hind legs to pin Inferno while he recovers.[break]
Succeed or fail, he pairs it with a potent blast of Psychic.[break]
Buffaloman comes out from his Pokeball, aiming a Swagger Maximus' way to prevent interference.[break]
Isaac's backed into a corner, but is ready to come out swinging and put on a killer show for his fallen companions.

[break][break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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This soul of mine breaks over and over ...

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DOLLARS

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TAG WITH @alec

POSTED ON Apr 9, 2023 22:21:18 GMT

This was the moment Alec had been waiting for. This was now the climax of the battle between Alec and Isaac. Shortly after Isaac had returned his Scolipede and called out his Paldean Tauros, Alec finally activated his MEGA GLOVE, thrusting it upward above his head. The energy gushed outward like water rushing out of a broken damn. The gym Leader had a look in his eyes, stalwart and unwavering as the energy cackled to life, enveloping around the black Charizard, making a cocoon.

[player]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/971225190564507658/1094731687751057509/Bleach_Ichigo_Vs_Ginjo_Final_Battle_Music_with_lyrics.mp3[/player]

This would once again force the Metagross backward, albeit a little just as Inferno's Mega Evolution process began. Sharp spikes violently jutted out from his shoulders, while its flames changed color from orange to blue; not just at the tip of its tail. Blue flames flowed from the sides of its mouth continuously as well and then, the cocoon of energy shattered, showing Inferno's awakening, letting out an invigorating roar that shook the ground slightly.

The PSYCHIC blast produced by the Metagross did some damage to Inferno, but the brunt of its attack couldn't fully penetrate through the cocoon of energy that formed around Inferno as it Mega Evolved. What's more was that due to the Mega Evolution process, Inferno was immediately recharged, no longer being affected by the discharge of its BLAST BURN. Meanwhile, Maximus immediately performed a STANCE CHANGE before the effects of the opposing Tauros' SWAGGER kicked in. This would bolster its defenses once again as it started hurting itself due to it being CONFUSED. This didn't come at a cost though, as Maximus had no choice but to waste a KING'S SHIELD in order for it to change stances.

Inferno once again opened its maw violently, unleashing yet another BLAST BURN onto the Mega-Evolved Metagross. This time however, the fiery attack's parameters were increased as well as the power behind the attack itself. This would inevitably put Isaac even further into the corner that he was placed in. If Isaac and his team had a plan, then it was now or never. Otherwise, yet another of Isaac's Pokemon would be unable to battle.

SPOILER: Click to show
TL;DR:
- Alec activates his Mega Glove and Mega Evolves his Shiny Charizard. Its Flying Type changes to a Dragon-Type while keeping its Fire Type. The Mega-Evolved Charizard also no longer needs to recharge after its previous Blast Burn.

- Maximus swiftly changes back into Shield Stance, wasting a use of KING'S SHIELD as a means to bolster its Defense as it hurts itself due to it being confused by the Tauros's Swagger. Atk +2 - 1/3 turns left until Maximus is no longer confused.

- Inferno, now being Mega-Evolved, attacks the Mega-Evolved Metagross with Blast Burn. The Blast Burn's Parameters and power are increased due to Inferno being Mega-Evolved. Inferno's Mega Evolution will last for 3 turns.

Isaac Merlo

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played by

Wanderer

The Liberator

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April 10

Lavaridge Town

Figuring it Out

Penitent

Renegade

Short King height

Turned on my friends and brought them pain. I have no right to show I can change. But I gotta try!

awards

4,402 posts

DOLLARS

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TAG WITH @isaacmerlo

POSTED ON Apr 10, 2023 3:40:33 GMT

[nospaces]

[attr="class","skullhover"]

[attr="class","skullimg"]

[attr="class","skulltitle"]導通抵抗

[attr="class","skulloverlap"]BUT HOLD YOUR BREATH, GUESS WHO'S RUNNING THE SHOW?

[attr="class","skullbody"]Mega Evolution was far than just a power boost. The surge of energy that rushed through the chosen Pokemon was like a second wind, allowing them to push past their limits and keep fighting even when they'd normally be fatigued. In this case, Inferno was able to push past even the energy crash caused by Blast Burn. Omega's eyes widened. Error. Error. This was not part of his calculations![break][break]

He could feel his own energy stating to ebb. His arms were starting to shrink. His body was starting to compress. The great power that he commanded threatened to slip right through his claws at the worst possible moment. Mega Evolution made his hide stronger and his movements far faster. The glancing blow he could risk in his current state would decimate him in any other.[break][break]

There was only one viable option. It was risky. It was painful. But Omega prided himself on his deadly efficiency, and to lose like this would be an insult to him. Squeezing his eyes shut, Omega tried to force the Mega Energy to coalesce back into his body.[break][break]

Uv0lr2Lb[break][break]

Barely, he managed to pull it off. Pain trembled through his body, but it was nothing compared to the pain that would await had he taken the Blast Burn full on.[break][break]

The Metagross violently flung himself out of the way of the Blast Burn, sparks kicking up from the arena floor as he grinded across it. Even this desperate dodge only managed to avoid part of the attack. Omega's underbelly was seared badly, his chrome body now blackened by ash. His flight path started to waver. His eyes started to grow heavy. A storm of "close enoughs" and "almosts" were starting to add up in glorious fashion.[break][break]

But so, too, would the wear and tear on Alec's team. Maximus was fighting himself. Inferno was in recovery. When they snapped back into focus, it would be curtains for Isaac and his team. This would be their last chance to make a mark, and Isaac knew exactly who to make it on.[break][break]

"Now's your chance, guys! Time to show what we're made of!"[break][break]

Omega, letting out a furious roar, tried to plant Inferno into the ground with a double-fisted Hammer Arm. A recovering foe would be a lot less risky to get up close and personal with, and the last thing Omega wanted was for a wayward Psychic to end up hurting Buffaloman instead.[break][break]

Buffaloman himself would seem to be up to business as usual, lowering his head and charging bullishly forward. However, much to the shock of everyone, he proved capable of actually changing tactics. Instead of trying to trample right over Inferno, he would pull into a quick turn in front of the Charizard. As he drifted, he lifted his hind legs to wallop the Charizard with a barrage of donkey kicks. This Close Combat would lower his defenses, but with the direction this battle was taking, he wasn't going to need defense for much longer.[break][break]

Two of Isaac's most powerful moves were colliding here, but their foe had just tapped into a potent second wind. By this point, Isaac and the crowd alike were on the edge of their seats. The arena had fallen so silent that one could hear a pin drop from the nosebleed seats.[break][break]

TEAL DEER;[break]
Omega rolls to stay Mega: >20 means he pulls it off, though the strain takes its toll.[break]
So does the Blast Burn. Passed-on Speed Boosts and heightened Mega stats let him barely dodge the worst of it, but it's clear he's at the end of the line.[break]
One last Hammer Arm from Omega rains down on Inferno while he recharges.[break]
Buffaloman comes charging in to try and follow up with a Close Combat.[break]
Both Pokemon put their 100% into these attacks, knowing that it may well be the last shot they have to turn the tide.

[break]

[break]

[attr="class","skullinfo"]MOBILE POST / alec foster

[attr="class","skullcredits"]TAIKO!

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balance

he/him

twenty-six

June 17

Blackthorn City, Johto

bisexual

gym leader

53 height

This soul of mine breaks over and over ...

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DOLLARS

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TAG WITH @alec