Pokemon Dark Tidings.

Johto,

The sun hung high over the Battle Tower's front lawn, casting bright rays across the rows of makeshift battle arenas. Ezra stood confidently on his side of the field, rolling his shoulders and cracking his neck. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, excited to see the first match of the tournament begin. He could feel their energy humming through the air like an electric current.

With both himself, a League winner - even if most here had hardly even heard of the Orange League - and Karen, the apprentice of an Elite Four, there was an amazing buzz going through the tournament at the moment.

Across from him, his opponent was a bug type specialist, sporting a cocky grin and holding three badges pinned to his vest as a show of pride. Ezra noted the badges - Violet City's Zephyr Badge, Azalea Town's Hive Badge, and Goldenrod City's Plain Badge. Not too shabby, at least compared to his last tournament. The bug trainer (who's name he'd already forgotten - because really, bugs?) already had his first Pokeball in hand, eagerly awaiting the start of the match.

Karen, sitting in the stands with her arms crossed, watched Ezra with a dark expression. Her eyes were locked on him, her jaw tight. She wasn't hiding her annoyance, not after the morning's embarrassing encounter. Ezra spotted her in the crowd and couldn't resist the opportunity. With a mischievous grin, he blew her a playful kiss, causing a few spectators around her to chuckle. Karen's glare only intensified, her hands balling into fists.

She was really making it all too easy for Ezra. She was wound up way too tightly, especially for someone in her position. Although he supposed she had a lot of growing up to do still before she took over one of the Elite Four slots.

The referee called a start to the match, Ezra just cooly watching his opponent, fingers stroking one of his Pokeballs.

"Ready, Ezra?" the bug trainer called, not waiting for an answer before he began anyway, "Alright, let's see what you've got. Go, Scyther!" the bug trainer shouted, tossing his first Pokeball onto the field.

With a flash of light, a Scyther appeared, its twin scythes gleaming under the sun. It sliced the air with a few practice swings, showing off its speed and sharpness. Ezra considered his options. He knew bug types had an advantage over dark, but he felt Alduin could handle himself fairly well if needed, but that didn't mean he couldn't use Morrigan first to his advantage, softening the enemy up a little.

Bugs might be dangerous for his little dark dragon, but against his ghostly dragon, they would fall. He tilted his head idly, watching the Scyther, a thought coming to him. Perhaps he could do Brock a favor and get him a Kleavor? He would have to source some black augurite, but it shouldn't be impossible. Another one to add to the list for his Pokemon breeder farm. Brock would get it for free, of course - he'd stood up to an Elite Four for him, a completely new bug/rock evolution was a nice enough thanks.

"Let's start with you, Morrigan," Ezra called, releasing his Dreepy onto the field. Morrigan hovered slightly above the ground, her spectral form shimmering in the sunlight, her eyes sharp and focused.

The crowd murmured in surprise, all of them unfamiliar with the unique form of a Dreepy. "What's that?" One of the spectators called out. "Looks like some kind of ghost type…"

Karen leaned forward slightly, intrigued despite herself. Morrigan, eh? So he's the kind of loser who names his Pokemon? Tch… So this new type is what he's been hiding…

"Scyther, Quick Attack into X-Scissor!" the bug trainer ordered. Scyther moved with blinding speed, becoming a blur of green and silver as it closed the gap between them in an instant.

"Morrigan, use Quick Attack to dodge, Confuse Ray on your previous location!" Ezra commanded calmly. Just as Scyther was about to strike, Morrigan disappeared in a blur as well due to her Quick Attack, before reappearing, curled up and chirping as she fired a Confuse Ray that hit Scyther even as his trainer shouted for it to dodge.

Unfortunately for Ezra, the Confuse Ray didn't seem to stick very well, the Scyther shaking it off to the cheers of the bug trainer.

"Nice try, but that won't stop us! Scyther, Fury Cutter, watch out for Quick Attacks!" The bug trainer clenched his fist in excitement as Scyther threw itself forward, slashing at Morrigan.

"Tank it and Bite." Ezra ordered, not overly worried, the bug move wouldn't be super effective and he believed Morrigan would do more damage back with the Scyther within reach.

The Scyther slashed at Morrigan, while Morrigan gathered the dark energy necessary, her small jaw gleaming as she sinuously stretched around the strikes to Bite Scyther's left shoulder, something giving away with a loud crackling crunch.

The Scyther let out a cry, backpedaling even as his trainer shouted worriedly, Morrigan barely damaged from the Scyther's strikes. Ezra also knew that with Morrigan having the ability cursed body, there was even a chance the Scyther's attack would have disabled Fury Cutter going forward. Not that it would matter.

Ezra didn't flinch at the Pokemon's cry. He was already moving ahead with the next move. "Morrigan, use Dragon Tail!"

Morrigan darted forward with surprising speed, her tail glowing with a brilliant draconic energy. Scyther barely had time to react before Morrigan's tail slammed into its chest, sending it skidding back across the field, tumbling uncontrollably, fainted already. The trainer immediately called Scyther back to its Pokeball, looking like he was caught off guard, fumbling to grab his next one.

Unlike Alduin, Morrigan had immediately taken to draconic attacks, especially Dragon Tail, likely because Morrigan was practically all tail to begin with.

"What the - ? Fine, let's go, Butterfree!" The bug trainer shouted, tossing out his second Pokeball.

Butterfree appeared in a burst of light, fluttering above the field with its wings glistening in the sun. It let out a soft, melodic cry, ready to fight.

"Morrigan, switch out!" Ezra called, recalling Dreepy and immediately throwing out his next choice. "Alduin, it's your turn!"

Alduin would be harmed easier by bug type moves which is why he hadn't started with him, but Butterfree was mainly useful for two things, status moves, and psychic moves. Psychic moves would be useless, and Alduin was agile and quick enough to hopefully not run into problems - he needed the experience anyway.

Deino burst onto the field, a fierce growl escaping its lips as it bared its teeth, eager for the fight. The crowd cheered at the sight of another Pokemon they'd never seen before. It was really throwing the announcer off, a guy Ezra barely paid attention to, other then to note with amusement his confusion about Ezra's Pokemon.

"Butterfree, Sleep Powder!" The bug trainer ordered quickly, predictably, trying to regain control of the match. Butterfree's wings began to flutter rapidly, releasing a shimmering cloud of powder that drifted towards Alduin.

"Counter it with Dragon Breath!" Ezra said lazily. Alduin inhaled deeply and released a focused burst of blue, fiery energy from its mouth. The blast cut through the air, dispersing the cloud of Sleep Powder and striking Butterfree head on. Butterfree screeched as the Dragon Breath hit, sending it spinning through the air.

Alduin wasn't the greatest with his control of the draconic energy yet however, so it neither took the Butterfree out, nor fully dispersed the cloud, due to being a more focused weaker beam, which meant the Sleep Powder would be slowly drifting down shortly, spread out, instead of concentrated, but still a concern.

"Butterfree, into the air, Sleep Powder again! Fill the field!" The bug trainer yelled out.

"Scary Face, Bite!" Ezra continued without missing a beat. Alduin used Scary Face, making the Butterfree stagger slightly, slowed down in its ascent, before he charged forward leaping into the air. He clamped his jaws down on Butterfree's wing, dragging the bug-type down to the ground with a solid thud.

The crowd gasped, impressed by the ferocity of the attack. Butterfree struggled, its wings fluttering weakly as it tried to break free.

"Come on, Butterfree, use Confusion!" The bug trainer called desperately. Butterfree's eyes glowed with a psychic energy. But the dragon/dark Pokemon held firm, its jaws locked tightly around Butterfree's wing, a psychic move wasn't going to be enough, especially with the dark energy suffusing Butterfrees wound.

"Alduin, finish it with Bite!" Ezra commanded. Alduin released the Butterfree just long enough to unleash another powerful bite around its face. Butterfree let out a pained cry before collapsing to the ground, fainted. Ezra couldn't help but shake his head, the kid should have recalled his Pokemon when it was caught.

Well, not that he overly cared anyway.

The referee raised a flag, as the announcer called out, in an overly hyped way, "Butterfree is unable to battle! Is there no end to the surprises Ezra Kassian will bring us!"

The crowd erupted in cheers, some of them shouting in excitement due to the new Pokemon. Ezra could hear a few voices in the stands calling out in surprise at how quickly the battle was turning in his favor. He was still badgeless after all.

Ezra clicked his tongue, like badges are a true measure…

Karen watched with narrowed eyes, her expression a mix of frustration and begrudging respect. The kid's not bad… but I've seen better. This doesn't change anything. Her eyes were fixated on the Pokemon he had on the field however. She could recognize a dark type when she saw it. She wanted one.

The bug trainer gritted his teeth, recalling Butterfree and quickly sending out his final Pokemon - luckily the waste of time had blown away most of the sleep powder, although Alduin was still clearly affected. "Beedrill, I choose you!" The bee-like bug type zipped onto the field, its twin stingers ready and gleaming, buzzing angrily as it took flight.

Ezra decided it was time to switch tactics again, Alduin would be sluggish anyway. "Alduin, come back. Morrigan, you're up again!"

Morrigan reappeared on the field, her ghostly form flickering as she floated above the ground, her eyes locked onto Beedrill immediately, an absolutely delighted thrill erupting from her at the sight of another enemy.

"Beedrill, use Fury Cutter then Poison Sting when you disengage!" The bug trainer shouted. Beedrill darted forward, its stingers glinting in the light as it thrust them towards Morrigan with deadly precision.

"Quick Attack behind and use Confuse Ray!" Ezra countered. Morrigan seemed to almost phase out of existence for a split second, avoiding the attack entirely, then reappearing in a Quick Attack behind Beedrill, her eyes glowing with a sinister light. A burst of ghostly energy shot out from her eyes, enveloping Beedrill and causing it to wobble in mid-air, its movements erratic and uncoordinated as it got confused.

"Beedrill, snap out of it! Poison sting! Now!" The bug trainer yelled, frustration clear in his voice. Ezra thought he needed to be quicker to immediately counter his own orders, something he'd found a lot so far. People weren't quick on giving up on what they'd already ordered. They needed to be more willing to drop an already failed strategy to adapt to a changed circumstance.

Well, something to work on when he had brats sniveling all across his hall when he was a gym leader…

"Let's finish this, Morrigan. Use Dragon Tail again!" Ezra ordered calmly, the fight already over. Morrigan darted forward, her tail glowing brightly as she slammed into Beedrill, sending it crashing into the ground with a loud thud. Beedrill buzzed weakly, trying to rise, but it was clear it was too exhausted to continue, and eventually it just put its head down.

The referee raised the flag again, the announcer screaming into a microphone, "Beedrill is unable to battle! The winner is Ezra Kassian, the Orange League champion moves on!"

The crowd erupted into cheers, a wave of excitement rippling through the stands. Ezra stood tall, a satisfied smile on his face as he recalled Morrigan back to her Pokeball. He glanced up at the stands, catching Karen's eye once more. He blew her another playful kiss, his grin widening as he saw her eyes narrow in annoyance.

In the stands, Karen folded her arms and leaned back in her seat, her expression dark but still remaining composed. "You got lucky this time facing a bug loser, Kassian. Don't get too cocky," She muttered under her breath. But despite her irritation, she couldn't deny that he had handled the battle decently for a rookie. There was more to him than she initially thought - he was still no match for her, though.

She couldn't wait to beat some respect into his face.

Although… Those new Pokemon… Her eyes narrowed as she stood up, exiting the stands. As annoying as it is, Lady Agatha will rip me a new one if I don't find out what they were.

Minutes later,

Ezra moved briskly through the winding paths behind the stands, his mind buzzing with the adrenaline rush of his recent victory. The air was thick with the excitement of the crowds and the mingling scents of freshly popped corn and spicy skewers, filling his nostrils as he navigated past food stalls and vendor carts. The sun beat down harshly on them, but the shadows cast by the stands offered a bit of a reprieve where he was. His stomach rumbled, reminding him he hadn't eaten for a while.

"Guess it's time for some refreshments," Ezra muttered to himself. He could still hear the roars of the crowd, the battles continuing on the field, but he allowed himself this brief moment to unwind. Winning the first round felt good, and seeing Karen fuming in the stands was a bonus he hadn't anticipated but relished nonetheless.

As he approached a small, less crowded corner near the back of the stands where a drink stall stood, a familiar, sharp voice cut through the din, stopping him in his tracks.

"Ezra Kassian! You have some explaining to do!" Karen's voice was tight, a mix of anger and frustration. She stepped out from the shadows of the stand's support beams, her expression a stormy mix of determination and annoyance.

Ezra turned slowly, a deliberate, amused smirk playing on his lips. "Karen," He greeted, feigning surprise. "What a pleasant surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Karen stormed up to him, her face flushed with either anger or the heat - or maybe a bit of both. "Don't play dumb with me! I want to know what the hell kind of Ghost Pokemon that was. And that Dark Pokemon! And why could they use a Dragon type move?"

Ezra's smirk widened into a sly grin as he raised an eyebrow. "Dragon type move? I'm afraid I have no idea what you're talking about." He said with a casual shrug, deliberately keeping his tone light and dismissive. "You must be mistaken."

A more fun way, in his opinion - to say none of your business.

Karen's eyes narrowed, her jaw tightening. "Don't lie to me, you brat! I know what I saw. Your Pokemon used Dragon Tail and Dragon Breath! They're obviously a Ghost and a Dark Pokemon, how did you teach them Dragon moves?"

Heh, apparently it's still too unbelievable to believe they could possibly be a dragon and a ghost/dark Pokemon. Ezra thought, deciding there was no point in satisfying her demands.

"Oh, that," Ezra said nonchalantly, waving a hand as if brushing away a fly. "Must have been your imagination. Morrigan and Alduin are just regular Ghost and Dark Pokemon, nothing special about them, perhaps you're suffering from heatstroke?"

Karen's fists clenched at her sides, her knuckles turning white. "I'm not stupid, Kassian. I know what I saw, stop hiding it. Stop messing with me!"

Ezra put on an expression of mock innocence, placing a hand on his chest. "Me? Messing with you? Hiding something? I would never!" He looked at her with wide, exaggerated eyes. "I'm an open book, Karen. Really, you should learn to trust people more." He leaned forward, as if to share a secret, "You keep frowning like that you'll get wrinkles."

Karen's face was starting to turn a deeper shade of red, her frustration clearly mounting. "You're infuriating!" She spat, stepping closer to him. "I won't let you mess with me like this. I'm going to figure out what you're hiding, one way or another. There's no way you got two new Pokemon like that, I'll find out who's backing you, you insufferable brat!"

Ezra chuckled softly, taking a step back to keep a polite distance. "Hey, your face is getting awfully red. You sure you're okay? Let me buy you a drink to cool down. I'm a nice guy like that, after all."

Before she could protest, Ezra turned to the drink stall, ordering two cold lemonades. The vendor handed them over with a cheerful smile, somehow unaware of the tension in the air. Ezra turned back to Karen, holding out one of the cups. "Here, drink up. It's on me."

Karen snatched the cup from his hand, her eyes never leaving his face. "You're trying to make me lose my cool, aren't you? That's your strategy. You don't think you can beat me, so you're trying to set me off, make me make mistakes."

Ezra took a slow sip of his drink, his smile never fading. "If you say so," He replied, his tone deliberately casual, almost indifferent.

Karen's eyes narrowed further, her suspicion growing. "You won't fool me, Kassian. This is all an act. You're trying to wind me up."

Ezra raised his eyebrows slightly, his smile widening just a fraction. "I'm sure you're right," He said, his voice smooth and agreeable. "You seem to have everything figured out, Karen."

Karen's face twitched with irritation, her fists clenched tighter. She could feel the heat rising in her cheeks, and she hated that he was getting under her skin so easily. But she refused to let him see just how much he was affecting her any longer, she was better than this. She crossed her arms over her chest, trying to regain some semblance of control. "I'm not going to fall for your mind games, Kassian. You can't get to me that easily."

Ezra just nodded, taking another sip of his drink. "Of course not. I wouldn't dream of it."

The nonchalant response only made Karen's anger flare hotter. She growled low in her throat, feeling her composure slipping. She hated how he seemed to be enjoying this, how he was so calm and collected while she was seething inside. She forcibly calmed herself down, refusing to show her frustration any further.

She was sure now, he was scared of her battle prowess, and he was trying to force her into making mistakes in anger later.

Ezra watched her with calm amusement, his eyes twinkling with mischief. He knew exactly what he was doing, and he was enjoying every moment of it. Karen was so easy to provoke, her reactions so predictable. It was almost too easy to mess with her.

Karen finally let out a frustrated huff, turning on her heel to leave. "Fine! Play your little games. But this isn't over, Kassian. I'll find out what you're hiding, and when I do, you'll regret it."

Ezra gave her a little wave as she stormed off, a satisfied smile on his lips. "Looking forward to it," He called after her, watching as she disappeared into the crowd.

He turned back to the drink stall, taking another sip of his lemonade. "What an interesting girl," He muttered to himself, shaking his head. "So easy to rile up. She's practically doing half the work for me." How she ever got to become Agatha's apprentice of all people I can't understand.

As he stood there, enjoying his drink and the brief respite from the tournament, he couldn't help but feel a sense of deeper satisfaction with how things were progressing. He knew he was getting under Karen's skin, and that was exactly what he wanted. She was clearly on edge, and if he could keep her off-balance, it would make things much easier when they eventually faced off in battle.

Her knowing that was what he was doing wouldn't change that - her temper had too much of a hair trigger for her to control yet. She wasn't an Elite Four, and was years away from that version of her. If anything he was helping her by making her see her own flaws so early.

That was his story, and he was sticking to it.

He leaned back against the stand, watching the crowd bustle around him. The atmosphere was electric, the excitement of the tournament clear in the very air as the crowd constantly cheered. Trainers and spectators moved through the area, their voices a constant hum of chatter and laughter. Ezra took it all in, enjoying the moment of calm before the storm. He wouldn't have his next match for hours yet, and then the next two the next day, saving the semi-final and the final for the third day.

He glanced over to where Karen had disappeared, a thoughtful expression on his face. She was a tough one, no doubt about that. But he wasn't worried. He knew how to handle people like her. All it took was a little patience, a little strategy, and a lot of bullshitting.

And Ezra had all three in spades.

With a final sip of his drink, he pushed off the stand and made his way back towards the tournament grounds. There were still more battles to see, more challenges for Morrigan and Alduin to test their teeth on. And he was ready for all of them.

Victory would taste all the sweeter this time around thanks to Karen…

Final day of the tournament.

Ezra sat in the stands, eyes narrowed in concentration as he watched the battles below unfold. It was the third day of the tournament, and he'd managed to crush his way through to the finals with relative ease, mostly relying on Morrigan and Alduin. Cheshire had come out a few times, but more as a show to keep his opponents guessing rather than out of necessity. He'd observed Karen's battles when he could, finding her strategic ruthlessness to be both impressive and disappointing in turn - she was also mired in the proper way of doing things, despite being a dark Pokemon trainer. Though she had not openly acknowledged him since their last heated encounter, he could feel the tension between them simmering every time they crossed paths.

For some reason the girl really didn't like him. And he'd been so kind too…

Karen had made it to the semifinals without much difficulty. Her style was sharp and unforgiving, much like a honed blade. She had cut through her competition with a mix of cunning and overwhelming force, mostly the latter if he was honest. He knew she was a favorite to win - as an apprentice to the Elite Four, she was a cut above the rest of the competition.

He just couldn't beat back the slight feeling of disappointment. She wasn't an Elite Four, sure, and wouldn't be for a long while yet. But he'd somehow expected more. She was definitely vicious, cunning and had the fundamentals down to a tee. What she wasn't, was creative.

Everything she was doing, he'd already seen or thought of, there were no surprises. He was hoping it was a case of her taking it easy on the scrubs, or their fight would be a cakewalk.

Especially with his cheaty aura which he already knew affected even trainers Dark Pokemon.

Ezra had spent much of his time outside the tournament training in the forests around the Battle Tower, honing his skills and preparing his team for the final match. He hadn't been keeping up with the other competitors much, figuring that Karen would handle them easily enough. But as the announcer's voice boomed through the arena, he leaned forward with interest. The day's final semifinal match was about to begin, and Karen would be facing Shae, the punkish girl he'd met before.

He hadn't even realized she was here.

The sight of her made him narrow his eyes in thought. Shae. He hadn't expected to see her again, especially not in the semifinals of this tournament. She must have been doing well to make it this far - and she hadn't approached him, despite likely having seen him battling... Did that make her more suspicious or less? He watched her stroll onto the field opposite Karen, her leather jacket and spiked choker standing out amongst the competition. Her expression was calm, almost bored, but even from his position, Ezra could see the intensity behind her eyes. She had a way of hiding her seriousness behind that nonchalant exterior, much like himself.

Albeit he tended to go from nonchalant to asshole from one second to the next.

Karen, on the other hand, looked as fierce and determined as ever. Her silvery blue hair fell around down her back in waves, and her eyes were sharp, focused. She was a striking contrast to Shae's more rebellious look - poised, with an air of authority. The crowd was abuzz with anticipation, the chatter growing louder as they watched, eager for what would likely be an excellent fight.

Ezra leaned forward in his seat, his interest piqued. This might be the first match where Karen would actually have to break a sweat. He wanted to see how Shae would handle herself against someone of Karen's caliber too. The announcer's voice rang out again, signaling the start of the battle.

"This will be a three-on-three match! Trainers, send out your first Pokemon!" The normal statement was immediately followed by the man making a dramatic sweeping motion, almost swallowing the microphone as he yelled out, "Will this rebellious punk throw down the princess of the dark! Let's find out!"

Not surprisingly, both Shae and Karen threw him disgusted looks, before focusing back on each other.

Karen wasted no time after that. She threw her Pokeball into the air with a confident flick of her wrist. "Honchkrow, let's go!"

In a flash of light, her Honchkrow appeared on the field, its glossy feathers shimmering under the bright stadium lights. It cawed loudly, its red eyes fixed on Shae with a predatory gleam.

Shae smirked and sent out her own Pokemon. "Envy, it's your turn!"

Her Koffing materialized, hovering in the air with its usual toxic fumes slowly seeping out. The gas cloud seemed thicker this time, almost as if Shae had been preparing it for something special. Training him up for a rematch with me, maybe? Ezra through, eyes on the match intently.

Karen didn't waste any time. "Honchkrow, use Air Cutter, take to the sky, stay out of range, evasive maneuvers!" She commanded.

Honchkrow's wings glowed as it swooped up in the air, before whirling at Koffing, slashes of air shooting towards the Pokemon, moving with blinding speed. Shae's eyes narrowed.

"Envy, use Smokescreen V2, then push yourself out of the way with Belch!"

Koffing spewed out a thick purplish cloud of smoke, obscuring itself just as Honchkrow's attack closed in. A loud Belch was heard immediately, and the Pokemon must have moved itself with the force of the Belch, because as the attack from the dark bird Pokemon sliced through the smoke, there was no sound of pain indicating a hit.

"Nice try, I saw you mix that smokescreen with poison gas." Karen called out, smirking, before slashing down with one arm, "Honchkrow, Hurricane!"

The crowd leaned forward, gasping at the fast-paced exchange. Shae was clearly playing a tactical game, using her Koffing's abilities to create a defensive wall and keep Karen's Honchkrow at bay. And now Karen was moving to remove said obstacle.

Honchkrow flapped its powerful wings and darted around over the smokescreen with swift, precise motions, wind whirling around inside the smokescreen as it surrounded the Koffing in a hurricane, pulling the gas and smokescreen both into it. Except, Shae didn't look worried, Ezra chuckling as he realized she'd pulled a fast one again, just like she'd done against him.

Koffing wasn't in the smokescreen anymore.

"I guess you got me!" Shae called out, making Karen's eyes narrow, as she studied the field, trying to see what she'd missed, immediately cottoning on to something being wrong, Shaw calling out, "Toxic!"

Despite Honchkrow's agility, it could not avoid the attack entirely as Koffing erupted from the earth and spat out a deluge of toxin straight at it. Karen's eyes narrowed, seeing the faint purple tint spread across Honchkrow's feathers. Poisoned. Badly poisoned at that.

Ezra's smile widened. This was more like it. Shae was fighting smart, using every advantage she could. But Karen was no pushover, and he knew she would retaliate fiercely. If he wasn't mistaken, Shae had once again used Koffing as a specific set up, having studied Karen. That purplish smokescreen hadn't been poisoned as Karen had thought, that had, pardon the pun, been a smokescreen.

She'd focused Karen on the smokescreen calling it V2 to make Karen think exactly what she'd done, while to Koffing V2 meant dig and wait for her command. The Koffing would have had to be pretty close to the surface to catch that, hence why Shae hadn't wanted Karen to look away from her smokescreen.

"Honchkrow, use Perish Song!" Karen commanded, her voice steady and calm despite the fact the first round was practically her loss. Perish Song would ensure Koffing went out with Honchkrow at least as long as Honchkrow could hold on that long. As badly poisoned as the bird was, it would have been unlikely to defeat Koffing on its own before fainting otherwise.

Honchkrow immediately began to sing an eerie and haunting melody, the crowd quieting down for a moment, just listening.

Ezra knew that unlike a game mechanic where just switching out the Pokemon ended a Perish Song, here, it worked no matter what, within 2-3 minutes. Which was about the time it would take Pokemon to fire off 2-3 full attacks - after which both Pokemon would faint.

It was a good enough move from Karen, making sure a falling asset took the other side with it. Making up for her getting caught off guard and almost losing the first round uncontested.

"Envy, we go on our own terms!" Shae shouted. "Use Explosion!"

Ezra blinked, somewhat exasperated by the unnecessary attack brought out by Shae's sheer ruthlessness. She was going for the double knockout on her terms. The Koffing began to glow ominously, building up energy, sitting almost directly below the Honchkrow.

Karen had time to order the Pokemon to fly away, but showing her own ruthlessness, did not do so. Considering both Pokemon were destined to faint within the next minute or two anyway, she obviously didn't see a point.

Ezra approved.

No need to act like they were dying or anything. They were just fainting, best to get it over with. Now if her Pokemon had a move to change the terrain or lay a trap before fainting, that was a different matter…

Koffing detonated, the explosion sending a shockwave through the arena. Dust and debris filled the air, and the crowd gasped in shock and thrill at how the first round of their fight came to an end. When the dust settled, both Pokemon lay fainted on the ground. A draw for the first round.

Both trainers recalled their Pokemon. Shae was still smirking, clearly unfazed by the loss of her Koffing, likely feeling like she'd still come out ahead in the mental battle. Karen, however, looked more serious than before.

She'd been skating through so far in the tournament, so likely this was a bit of a wake up call.

"Let's see how you handle this," Karen muttered, throwing her next Pokeball. "Sneasel, let's make a meal out of the punk's Pokemon!"

A Sneasel appeared, crouching low with its claws outstretched, eyes gleaming with malice. It hissed at Shae, who only grinned in response, not appearing bothered in the slightest.

"Alright, Pride, time to shine!" Shae called, releasing her Arbok. The snake Pokemon hissed loudly, its hood flaring out to reveal the intimidating pattern. The crowd cheered, clearly excited by the match-up.

"Sneasel, use Snowscape!" Karen commanded without hesitation.

Sneasel practically cackled, as a snowstorm erupted over the field, reducing visibility, and buffing Sneasel's ice attacks going forward. At the same time as Karen called out her attack, Shae had called out her own, the moment the word Snow - exited Karen's mouth.

"Pride, use Dig, plan three!"

Arbok slithered quickly, as it burrowed underground, avoiding the snowstorm in totality. Karen loudly clicked her tongue, annoyed by her opponent's propensity to dig underground.

Ezra privately thought Shae would be destroyed by anyone with Earthquake or similar techniques if she kept fighting with the same type of moves. Or perhaps she's just being tactical. After all, the odds of a Honchkrow and a Sneasel having those types of moves were practically zero.

"Get ready, Sneasel," Karen said, eyes sharp. "Light feet."

Ezra watched with interest. With the way the Pokemon reacted to Karen's order. Ezra had a feeling Karen as well was finally playing the same game - hiding her order behind something else.

Arbok erupted from the ground behind Sneasel, fangs bared, lit up with fire energy as it executed a Fire Fang. Sneasel cried out at the effective move, before its claws seemed to blur, as it struck back, the Arbok tossed back hissing in pain, curling up on itself a few feet away.

Counter. Ezra thought, enjoying the match. Karen knew an attack was coming and that she'd likely take some damage even if she ordered Sneasel to dodge, so she primed Sneasel to hit back twice as hard, take damage, but damage the enemy more. A calculated risk.

The Arbok was hissing in pain but quickly recovered, coiling around to face Sneasel. Both trainers called out orders at the same time.

"Pride, use Glare!" Shae shouted, no doubt hoping to ensure Sneasel couldn't use its greater agility against her.

At the same time Karen called out, "Ice Beam!"

Arbok's eyes glowed a menacing red, and Sneasel froze in place just as it was starting to fire an Ice Beam, paralyzed. Karen's face tightened in frustration. If the Ice Beam had gone off, in the snowstorm that was raging and enhancing Sneasel's attacks, Arbok would have been done for.

Shae had a lot of luck in this round, Glare only had a minor chance to so fully paralyze the opposing Pokemon.

"Finish it with another Fire Fang!" Shae commanded, a cool smirk on her face, as she winked teasingly at Karen, making the girl grit her teeth in frustration.

I'm not the only one who's noticed how easily riled up she is… Ezra thought with some amusement. It's likely Agatha beat that out of here by the time she took over her spot.

Arbok lunged at the immobile Sneasel, its fangs glowing with fire energy. The attack struck true, and Sneasel crumpled to the ground, completely done. The referee raised his flag, signaling the end of the round, Shae now having two Pokemon left. Karen - one.

The crowd erupted into cheers and gasps, clearly impressed by Shae's performance and shocked at the fact Karen was losing. Ezra couldn't help but smile. He wasn't sure if Karen could pull back or not, but if she did - this humiliation - or at least it would feel like it for her - would only further prime her to be off her game when fighting him.

Fighting Shae in the final instead, with Karen watching impotently from the side… Had its own charm too.

Karen recalled her Sneasel, her face calm but her eyes blazing with determination. "You're better than I thought," She muttered, loud enough for Shae and the audience to hear, thanks to the microphones, some self recrimination in her voice.

Shae just grinned, clearly enjoying the fight. "You're not bad yourself, Princess," She taunted, using the announcer's moniker for her.

Karen ignored the jibe and released her final Pokemon. "Weavile, let's end this."

Smart, Sneasel set up the field, it should last for another couple attacks at least. She might be down in Pokemon count, but she has field advantage and an already weakened Pokemon, Ezra began feeling more confident that Karen might pull this off.

He did want that fight after all.

Her Weavile emerged, growling lowly as it glared at Arbok. The crowd murmured, sensing the intensity of the battle about to unfold - knowing that Karen was up against the wall.

Again they called out their orders simultaneously, "Fire Fang!" From Shae, and "Ice Beam!" Snapped out by Karen.

Arbok didn't stand a chance, Shae had picked the wrong move this time, all it did was make sure Arbok was right in the face of Weavile when the overpowered Ice Beam hit it point blank.

Shae recalled her Arbok, looking chagrined at her own faulty decision, and sent out her final Pokemon. "Greed, it's your turn!"

Her Croagunk appeared, its eyes darting around the field as it bounced lightly on its feet. Ezra's eyes narrowed in thought, she's using the same three Pokemon, so I wont have any idea what else she has to use against me in the final if she wins… It puffed up its cheeks, its bright orange fingers flexing as it prepared for the coming battle. The crowd grew silent, sensing the tension in the air. Both trainers knew that this match could go either way, and neither was willing to give an inch.

Karen wasted no time, her voice clear and commanding. "Weavile, Blizzard!"

In the midst of the icy battlefield, Weavile crouched low. With a swift, fluid motion, it raised its clawed hands to the snowy sky, summoning a swirling storm of snow and ice. The temperature dropped rapidly as the blizzard began to form, the wind howling with a fierce intensity. With a sharp cry, Weavile unleashed its Blizzard attack, sending a torrent of frigid snowflakes and shards of ice crashing toward its opponent. The air crackled with the chill of the freezing onslaught, as the relentless storm threatened to overwhelm anything in its path.

Shae remained calm. "Greed, Dig and Snipe!" She ordered, the moment Weavile began its attack.

Just as the Blizzard exploded across the field, Croagunk dove underground, narrowly avoiding the blast. The ground froze over completely where the Blizzard struck, and a plume of snow rose up, temporarily obscuring the battlefield.

Ezra leaned forward, eyes narrowing as he tried to anticipate the next move. This battle was now down to who got a decisive strike in first, with both trainers trying to outthink the other. Karen's face was a mask of concentration, while Shae's expression remained unreadable. Her use of dig in every fight was going to work against her, Ezra suspected.

There was no way Karen would allow herself to be hit the same way again. Still, she was also vulnerable, as Croagunk was a Fighting/Poison type, and fighting was very effective against Weavile.

"Stay on your toes, Weavile," Karen called out, her voice steady. "Wait for it..."

Weavile tensed, its body low to the ground, muscles coiled and ready. The earth rumbled slightly, beneath its paws, signaling Croagunk's imminent reemergence.

"Endure and Avalanche!" Karen shouted just as Croagunk burst from the ground behind Weavile.

The Croagunk slammed into Weavile with a Cross Chop, the move super effective, Weavile groaning around the strike, but with a sinister grin on its face. Due to Endure, Weavile couldn't faint from this attack, and right after, Avalanche slammed into the Croagunk, the nice doubling in damage due to Weavile taking damage first, and then likely tripling or quadrupling due to the last vestiges of the snow storm.

Croagunk didn't stand a chance.

And just like that. With Weavile on literally its last legs. 1 HP left, if talking game terms.

Karen won.

The referee raised his flag, the announcer screaming out, face red, eyes bulging as he face hugged the microphone "Croagunk is unable to battle! The winner is Karen and her Weavile! The princess of the dark is evolving into a Queen!"

The crowd erupted into applause, many cheering and some still whispering in shock at the intensity of the battle. Karen let out a sigh of relief, recalling her Weavile with a slight nod of appreciation. Shae recalled her Croagunk, her expression a mix of disappointment and pleasure at a well fought battle.

Ezra stood up immediately, making his way down to the edge of the field. His eyes were focused on Shae, a hint of a smirk on his lips. He could see Karen watching him from the corner of her eye as he got down onto the field as they both began vacating it, her expression darkening as he approached.

As he reached the exit where the two girls were leaving, he completely ignored Karen, who was glaring daggers at him. Instead, he walked straight up to Shae. "Nice to see you again," He said with a respectful nod, even as he eyed her carefully. "You fought well. Almost beating an apprentice to the Elite Four is quite the feather in your cap, even if it was just Karen."

Okay, so he had two reasons to approach Shae, what with Karen nearby, he could do more than one thing at a time - he was good like that.

Shae glanced at Karen's reddening face with a wry smile, then looked back at Ezra, a knowing look in her eyes. "Too bad we didn't get a rematch," She lamented. "Would've been a lot more fun."

Ezra nodded, smirking as he specifically didn't look at Karen. "I agree. It would be much more interesting to fight you again. But I guess I'll have to 'make do' with the opponent I have." He sighed theatrically, in a what can you do manner, Shae outright chuckling.

Karen's face flushed with anger, her hands balling into fists at her sides. She refused to engage however, managing to hold herself back. Stomping off with an irate huff. Ezra watched her go, amusement clear in his eyes.

Shae raised an eyebrow at him, clearly entertained by the exchange. "Is it wise to piss off your opponent right before a big match?" She asked, arms crossed under her chest in a way that accentuated her curves.

Not that Ezra noticed or anything.

Ezra's eyes flicked to her, then back to Karen's retreating form. "It's always wise to piss off an opponent," He replied with a casual shrug. "Makes them more likely to make stupid decisions."

Shae hummed thoughtfully, her eyes following Karen's figure as she disappeared into the crowd. "Maybe, but it might not be wise to piss off this particular opponent," She warned, her tone teasing. "Claws might come out." She added as a warning.

Ezra's confidence didn't waver. "I know what I'm doing."

Shae snorted, a smirk on her face. "That's what every man says before a woman crushes his balls. But whatever, win or lose, I'll enjoy watching it." She teased, her voice laced with both amusement and a hint of a challenge.

Ezra's confidence didn't falter. "Winning is the only outcome," He declared, determinedly. He couldn't help but notice the playful glint in her eyes as she leaned back slightly, her posture relaxed but still very much aware. Is she a plant for me, I'm dying to know…

Is she Team Rocket?

He probably shouldn't be poking her with a stick to see how she reacts, but he was very bad at holding back his impulses to begin with.

"Sure, sure," Shae replied with a lazy drawl, her tone teasing. "Just don't come crying to me when she wipes the floor with you." She gave him a wink and started to walk off, but not before turning back one last time. "Good luck, by the way, love seeing you perform." She said with a flirty smile.

Ezra watched her go, his expression shifting into something more serious, his smile fading as he considered the situation. Despite her playful demeanor, there was something about Shae that still didn't sit right with him. This conversation hadn't been able to shake off the feeling that she might be more than just a tough trainer with a punk attitude. She was suspicious, no doubt about it.

Not long after meeting her, Team Rocket had tracked him down - noted him as a person of interest. Coincidence? That's what he was wondering…

He couldn't ignore the possibility that she was affiliated with Team Rocket or some other organization, keeping an eye on him for reasons unknown. It wasn't entirely unreasonable for her to be fighting in this tournament. But Johto is big enough it's odd that she, with her skill, happened to be where he was twice now.

She should be doing the circuit, kicking ass and taking names.

Whatever her motives, he couldn't afford to let his guard down. He had a tournament to win, and after that, he'd be heading back to Pewter City to continue his journey. There was no point in dwelling on Shae's intentions more now - he'd act if she mysteriously followed him again. He had a more immediate challenge to focus on.

Karen.

As he turned away from the battlefield and made his way back to the stands, Ezra's thoughts shifted back to his upcoming match. Karen was no ordinary trainer despite some of her less then desirable habits. Her connection to the Elite Four made her a formidable opponent in sheer knowledge available to her if nothing else, and she had shown time and time again that she was willing to do whatever it took to win.

He could see that from the way she commanded her Pokemon with such confidence and precision, never hesitating, never showing any sign of doubt in her decision, that she was a fighter through and through.

She likely thought she had all the advantages right now, Dark after all was effective against Ghosts. To the crowd, and to Karen. There was absolutely no way Ezra could win.

That attitude was exactly what he wanted.

There was a break, as Karen got the opportunity to heal her Pokemon, not that Ezra suspected she'd use the same ones now. So he hung around the edge of the stands, just waiting.

The final was here soon, the most important match.

The sun was beginning to set across the fighting area as the final preparations for the final match went into motion, the announcer hyping everything up. The crowd buzzed with excitement and plenty of betting could be seen taking place, making Ezra more confident that online betting on Pokemon matches would make him filthy rich once he got it going.

This was what they had all been waiting for since the first match. The climax of the tournament, the Orange League winner versus the Dark Apprentice.

As he made his way to the competitors' area, he caught a glimpse of Karen standing off to the side, her arms crossed over her chest and her eyes focused on something in the distance. She looked calm and composed, but he could sense the tension radiating off her in waves. She was angry, that much was clear, and he knew that her frustration could either be an advantage or a liability, depending on how he played his cards.

He wanted her angry, frustrated, likely to lash out, but not so angry she got coldly focused, taming it for her purpose and using it to her advantage instead of his.

He decided to keep his distance, not wanting to provoke her any further before the match. He needed her to be off her game, to be thinking more about him than about the battle ahead.

As he watched her from across the field, he couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement too. This was it - the moment he had been waiting for during the last three days. A chance to prove himself against one of the supposed best, to show that he was more than just a novice trainer with a few tricks up his sleeve. He was here to win, and nothing was going to stand in his way.

Don't cry too hard, Karen, daddy's only going to spank you a little…

…

Arceus, I'm glad I didn't say that out loud, Ezra cringed, looking away from Karen.

The hour-long break before the final match had felt stretched out, filled with restless energy of anticipation. The crowd were extremely loud and filled with excitement, the stands a sea of color and noise as vendors moved through the aisles selling refreshments and souvenirs. The organizers worked hard to hype up the final, their voices amplified by speakers, extolling the skills of the two finalists and building the tension to a fever pitch.

Ezra watched all of this from his spot in the competitors' area, a calm smile playing on his lips. He knew what was coming. Karen was a fierce opponent, and she would not hold back now. But he felt confident in his own abilities and those of his Pokemon. His hand moved almost unconsciously to the Pokeballs at his belt, his fingers brushing over their cool surface. She might be strong, but he had strength of his own. And advantages she couldn't comprehend.

He'd seen Karen's battle against Shae, and he understood the game she was playing. Just like him, Karen had been holding back, only for her it had almost cost her. She hadn't used her best Pokemon, conserving her strength and hiding her team for the final showdown. Shae had forced her to reveal a little more, but he knew that he hadn't seen everything she could do yet. He wasn't fooled by the near-defeat, it had been a case of Karen underestimating the opposition - Karen was a lot more formidable than she appeared.

Against him, it wouldn't matter.

He had his own plans for this battle, his own strategies that he had been saving for this moment. He was ready to face her strongest Pokemon with his own. He stroked the Pokeballs again, feeling the weight of them in his hands, a subtle smile playing at his lips. She'd face much stronger Pokemon in this final, too. Loki, Nyx, and Rider had been patiently waiting for this.

A loud horn sounded, signaling the competitors to take their places. Ezra stood up, stretching his arms above his head, and began his walk to the field. The crowd's noise swelled around him, a wave of sound that seemed to carry him forward. Across the field, he saw Karen stepping out from the opposite side. Her face was set in a determined expression, her jaw tight with focus.

Then she stopped, her eyes widening for just a moment as she took in the sight of an elderly woman now seated in the VIP section. Ezra recognized her immediately as he glanced that way - Lady Agatha of the Elite Four. The ghost type master, renowned and feared across Kanto and Johto alike, her presence alone enough to send a chill down the spine of even the bravest trainers.

Notably the seating around her section was suddenly a lot sparser.

Karen's pale face showed her surprise, clearly she hadn't been expecting her mistress to be here. It seemed Agatha had come on her own accord, her sharp eyes watching the proceedings, watching him.

Ezra caught Agatha's gaze, and for a brief moment, he felt the full weight of her scrutiny. Her eyes were like cold steel, piercing through him as if trying to see into his very soul. He suppressed the urge to shiver under that intense stare. He knew better than to show any sign of intimidation. Instead, he gave her a slow, respectful bow of his head, a gesture of acknowledgment and respect. He might enjoy messing with Karen, but Agatha was a different matter entirely.

Lady Agatha was one of the most powerful trainers in both regions, her influence and authority unmatched by all but a few. She commanded respect, and Ezra was not foolish enough to antagonize her unnecessarily. If she had come all this way to watch the final, it meant she was interested in something - perhaps in Karen's performance, or perhaps in his, since she'd been tracking him apparently. Either way, he knew this wouldn't end with the battle. He would have to talk to her, whether he wanted to or not. And how that conversation went would depend heavily on what happened next.

If he didn't dominate here, he'd be in a weaker position when Agatha laid out her demands, whatever it was she was pushing for in sending Karen chasing after him.

Karen seemed to recover quickly from her initial shock. Her face hardened into a mask of determination, her eyes never leaving Ezra's as she resumed her walk to the field. She looked even more serious than usual, her mouth set in a thin line, her shoulders squared. She was prepared to give it her all, no matter the outcome. Ezra could see it in her posture, in the way she moved with a fierce purpose.

Ezra took his place at his end of the field, his mind already running through the various scenarios that could play out. He could feel the weight of Agatha's gaze on him, a constant reminder of what was at stake.

He took a deep breath, exhaling slowly as he centered himself. He could do this. He had to do this. His position, his future, his very dreams depended on it - he couldn't be shackled to Agatha, which he suspected is why she sent Karen after him. He knew that Karen would come out strong, but he was ready for her. He had prepared for this, and he would give her everything he had - and he would crush her.

He would show Agatha that he wasn't some idiot rookie. That she couldn't just do what she wished with him.

The referee raised his hand, signaling the start of the match. The crowd fell into a hushed silence, the anticipation hanging thick in the air like a storm about to break. Ezra locked eyes with Karen across the field, a confident smile on his face. She returned his gaze with a look of fierce determination, her eyes burning with a competitive fire.

This is it, Ezra thought. Time to win.

The tournament's final match was about to begin, and the atmosphere was electric as the announcer screamed so hard into his microphone he became unintelligible. Spectators leaned forward in their seats, eager to see who would come out on top. Karen stood tall and confident, her lips pressed together in a tight line. Ezra faced her with a calm expression, his eyes cold and calculating.

The referee raised his flag, signaling the start of the battle. "Trainers, release your Pokemon!" The announcer screamed, before finally, mercifully, shutting up.

Karen acted first, sending out an Absol in a flash of white light. The Disaster Pokemon landed gracefully on the ground, its white fur shimmering under the stadium lights, the blade-like horn on its head gleaming with a deadly sharpness. Karen gave the Absol a nod of confidence, clearly relying on her Pokemon's agility and strength to overpower Ezra early in the fight and take a commanding lead.

Ezra, however, had a different strategy in mind. He released Nyx, his Spiritomb, onto the battlefield. The ghostly Pokemon materialized in a swirl of dark energy, its eerie purple and green visage eliciting murmurs from the crowd. Nyx floated above the ground, its hundreds of spectral dots shifting into faces and whispering in a haunting chorus.

Karen hesitated for a moment, her brows furrowing at the sight of the Ghost/Dark type. Not that she likely knew that, Ezra thought, the Spiritomb was not a well known Pokemon at this time.

She had confidence in her Pokemon's speed and power. "Absol, start with Taunt, then move in with Bite" She commanded, her voice firm.

Not a bad move, stopping Nyx from using status moves and then getting in close now that she can't be hit by Confuse Ray and the like, Ezra acknowledged. Unfortunately for her, that hadn't been his plan to begin with. Bite also wouldn't be as effective as she had planned if it hit, because Nyx was also a Dark Pokemon.

Absol leaped forward, its teeth glowing with a dark aura as it charged toward Nyx after having let out a cry, using Taunt. The crowd gasped at the Pokemon's speed, the air around Absol crackling with energy. But Ezra remained unfazed. "Nyx, Phantom Force," He said calmly.

Nyx's eyes glowed with an otherworldly light, before the Pokemon just disappeared, Absols attack missing, as there was nothing to hit. Suddenly Nyx reappeared again, the ghostly energy hitting Absol, who let out a cry, jumping back.

First blood, so to speak, Ezra thought, watching Karen with a smirk, what will you do?

Karen seemed incensed to have taken the first hit like that, her Pokemon not able to do anything. "Absol, Double Team and Night Slash, keep moving, don't let it surprise you"

Absol tried to follow her command, creating multiple afterimages of itself to confuse Nyx after firing off a Night Slash. But Ezra was one step ahead. "Nyx, SS2!"

Nyx disappeared, avoiding the Night slash, before appearing behind the Absol in a Shadow Sneak, immediately releasing a wave of dark energy that spread across the battlefield - a Dark Pulse. The attack hit all of Absol's afterimages, instantly revealing the real one. The Dark Pulse also struck Absol head on, sending it skidding back across the dirt a few feet, the Absol growling in anger.

As dark and ghost moves were both only half effective, Nyx hadn't done overly too much damage yet.

"Quick Attack and Bite, watch your back!" Karen called out, frustrated with the pace of the fight being entirely against her.

Ezra decided it was time to turn the battle decisively in his favor. His lips curled into a subtle smile. He flared his aura slightly, just enough to be felt by Absol. There was no visible sign of his action, but he saw the immediate effect. Absol, in the middle of a Quick Attack, hesitated, as it sensed the aura from him directly, stuttering to a halt. Leaving it wide open.

Karen's eyes widened in frustration. She didn't understand why Absol was acting so strangely, failing its move. "Focus, Absol! Use Quick Attack!" She called out, trying to get her Pokemon back on track.

But it was too late, Nyx was already right on it. "Nyx, Hypnosis," Ezra ordered softly, his aura actively pushing on Absol to not fight the technique.

The Taunt only lasted for the energy it took to fire off three attacks, or three turns in game terms. Which Nyx had already done. So status moves were back into play.

Nyx's eyes glowed once more, sending out hypnotic waves that enveloped Absol. The Pokemon's movements slowed, its eyes fluttering shut as it fell into a deep sleep. The crowd murmured in surprise - the match had only just begun, and already Karen was at a significant disadvantage.

Ezra looked at her, tilting his head, a pleasant smile on his face, "You can withdraw, or perhaps you want to see if Absol will wake up while Nyx uses Dream Eater."

At the word of the attack, Nyx immediately began, glowing with ghostly energy, which also enveloped Absol. Now Psychic type moves weren't very effective, Dark Pokemon resistive to them, but it was more of the point he was making.

I'm beating you with non-effective moves.

Karen clenched her fists, her frustration growing. She had underestimated Ezra, and now she was paying the price.

But she wasn't out of tricks yet. She could have switched Pokemon, and left the Absol for last, in hopes it would wake up as a Hail Mary if she was pushed that far, but instead she withdrew it, letting the referee know.

It was a pragmatic choice, ensuring Nyx wouldn't be able to either buff up, or prepare another technique while Karen switched. An immediate replacement forthcoming instead.

She quickly sent out her next Pokemon - a Gengar. The Ghost/Poison type emerged from its Pokeball with a mischievous grin, its body flickering like a shadow as it cried out its name, licking it's lips.

Ezra raised an eyebrow, knowing this was likely one of Karen's stronger Pokemon, trained by Agatha as she was - although not a Dark Pokemon - it was a fact that most specialists regularly had an ace or two in their back pocket. He decided to keep Nyx on the field, confident in his strategy and to be totally honest… His huge aura advantage.

Gengar's grin widened, eyes narrowing as it prepared to strike, just waiting on its mistress' orders.

Nyx was Dark as well as Ghost. Karen wasn't about to have a good time.

"Gengar, use Confuse Ray, then keep your distance and use Shadow Ball!" Karen commanded, her voice sharper now, no longer willing to take Ezra lightly. But, it was possible she was now being too careful.

Distance didn't matter overly much to Shadow Sneak. Not in a small field like this. "Nyx, Shadow Sneak out of the way." He ordered.

Nyx disappeared, the Confuse Ray missing, Karen immediately snapping out, "Turn around, attack!"

Gengar had already formed a dark ball of energy between its hands and immediately turned and hurled it toward Nyx. Ezra remained calm. "Nyx, Protect," He said quietly.

A translucent barrier appeared around Nyx just in time, absorbing the impact of Gengar's Shadow Ball. The crowd cheered at the display of defensive prowess. Karen's frustration was evident, she had yet to even hit him.

"Don't give it any breathing room! Gengar, use Sludge Bomb!" She shouted, doubling down on her attack, now that Nyx was right there.

Gengar prepared to launch a volley of toxic sludge at Nyx, aiming to overwhelm the protective shield. But Ezra anticipated her move. He flared his aura once more, and just as before with the Absol, Gengar's focus wavered, the attack slowing down as the Ghost Pokemon hesitated mid-through.

"Nyx, switch to Shadow Ball," Ezra ordered swiftly.

Nyx dropped its protective barrier and countered with its own Shadow Ball. The attack collided with Gengar in midair, causing a small explosion of ghostly energy. The force of the blast sent Gengar reeling back, and the crowd gasped at the intense exchange.

Karen's frustration turned into outright anger. She could feel Agatha's eyes on her from the stands, watching her every move. She couldn't afford to lose this match. "Gengar, regroup and use Thunderbolt!" She snapped out, switching to elemental attacks.

But Ezra was relentless. "Nyx, Shadow Ball again." His aura confused the Gengar, making it slow to react.

It wasn't fair. It wasn't nice. But winning was what mattered. And winning decisively mattered more.

Nyx released another ball of tightly compacted ghostly energy, and the Gengar, still momentarily distracted by Ezra's aura, was too slow to react. The attack hit it squarely, sending it crashing to the ground. Karen could only watch in disbelief as Gengar struggled to get back up.

She'd still failed to connect a single attack on Nyx.

Ezra seized the opportunity to finish it off. "Finish it with another Shadow Ball," He ordered, even as Karen shouted out, "Destiny Bond!" Trying to get something out of this.

Nyx gathered its energy and launched another Shadow Ball at Gengar. The attack struck with precision, and Gengar collapsed before it could finish its own last gasp attack, unable to continue. The referee raised his flag, signaling Gengar's defeat.

Karen was left with one Pokemon. She was backed into a corner, and Ezra had yet to lose any of his. She recalled the fainted Gengar, her jaw tight with frustration. She was furious, but she refused to let it show any further then that. She wouldn't give Ezra the satisfaction.

Karen sent out her final Pokemon, a Shiftry. The Grass/Dark type materialized on the field, its leafy hands swaying slightly as it sized up Nyx. Karen knew she had to turn this battle around, and quickly.

Ezra recalled Nyx, deciding to change tactics - he also didn't want to leave his next Pokemon pouting for the next week for not getting to play. He sent out Rider, his Ghost Marowak evolution. The crowd gasped at the sight of the unique Pokemon, its flaming bone club ignited with an eerie blue flame. Rider stood ready, eyes locked on Shiftry.

A Ghost/Fire type was a bad matchup for a Grass/Dark type. Karen was in for a quick finish.

Karen wasted no time. "Shiftry, Nasty Plot then hit it with a Sucker Punch!" She commanded.

Ezra wasn't about to let her have the time to pull both moves. "Rider. Fire Blast." He ordered with finality.

Rider was new to the move, so the fire blast was more compact, flying forward in a thin spray of white hot fire instead of a more all encompassing blast.

Karen's eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't expected Rider to toss out a fire attack, nor one of that caliber. "Shiftry, Protect!"

It was as easy as breathing to reach out and delay the Shiftry just that one critical second, the Pokemon crying out as the Fire Blast hit. Karen watched in absolute stupefaction, as she was beat without ever scoring a hit. Recalling her Pokemon rather than letting it continue suffering under the fire.

The crowd erupted in cheers as the referee raised his flag to signal Shiftry's defeat. The match was over. Ezra had won. There was a subdued quality to the cheer however. The crowd was almost confused at the easy victory, not to mention all the people who'd lost their bets.

Karen stared at the field in disbelief, her hands clenched into fists. She couldn't believe it. She had lost so easily. She had assumed too much, and Ezra had outmaneuvered her at every turn. Her face flushed with anger and embarrassment, but she refused to be a sore loser. She refused to humiliate herself more than she already had.

With a stiff expression, she walked across the battlefield to Ezra and extended her hand. "Good match," She said through gritted teeth, her voice taut with barely suppressed frustration.

Ezra accepted her handshake, feeling the strength in her grip as she tried to crush his hand. He met her gaze with a calm, unbothered expression, his grip firm but not retaliatory. "You fought well," He replied evenly.

She never stood a chance, but for once, he kept that to himself. There was such a thing as being a troll, and then there was beating a dead horse. He had some decency.

Karen's back remained rigid, her eyes fixed on Ezra's face as they shook hands. She was furious, but not just at him - she was angry at herself for underestimating him and letting her emotions get the better of her. She refused to look back toward the stands where she knew Lady Agatha was watching. The shame of losing in front of her mentor burned hotter than her defeat itself.

Just as Karen was about to release Ezra's hand, she felt a sudden, chilling touch on her shoulder. She jumped, her breath catching in her throat, and turned to see Lady Agatha standing behind her, as if she had appeared out of thin air. The elderly woman's face was expressionless, her eyes sharp and unreadable.

"You did as well as you could, considering the circumstances," Agatha said, her voice cool and measured. There was no judgment in her tone, but Karen could sense the underlying weight of her words. It was hard to tell if Agatha was disappointed or simply stating a fact.

Karen bit her lip, unsure of how to respond. She felt a mix of shame and frustration, but she knew better than to argue with her mentor. Before she could gather her thoughts, Agatha raised a wrinkled hand and cuffed her lightly on the back of the head.

"Girl, when I say something, it's the truth," Agatha snapped, a slight smile playing on her lips. "Don't make me repeat myself."

Karen nodded stiffly, her cheeks flushing as she fought to maintain her composure. "Yes, Lady Agatha," She mumbled, feeling like a scolded child.

The fact it was happening in front of Kassian made it one hundred times worse.

Meanwhile, Ezra had been trying to inch away from the uncomfortable scene, not wanting to draw any unnecessary attention to himself. He knew better than to get involved in whatever dynamic was at play between Karen and her mentor. But just as he was about to turn and slip away, he felt the weight of Agatha's gaze fall upon him.

"Ezra Kassian," Agatha said, her voice cutting through the noise of the crowd like a blade. "You're a hard young man to find. Come, let's chat, you and I."

Notably, the tournament should be having a prize ceremony, but no one seemed to be willing to approach them and disturb Agatha.

Ezra's body tensed. He had expected this moment but hoped it wouldn't come so soon. "Can't we just chat right now?" He asked, trying to keep his tone light while belatedly adding, "Lady Agatha," To maintain a semblance of politeness. And to remain in public view, where Agatha couldn't do anything too crazy if he flat out turned her down on whatever she wanted.

Agatha gave him a look that could have curdled milk. "I'm old, boy. I'm going to find a nice cushion to sit on before dealing with you," She replied, her smirk not quite reaching her eyes. She pointed a bony finger at him, and for a moment, Ezra wondered if she might actually zap him - like she was one of her Ghost Pokemon. "Karen, fetch us refreshments. I'll take over the referee's tent for now."

Karen's lips twitched in irritation, and she muttered under her breath, "I'm not a damn servant."

"What was that?" Agatha snapped, her tone sharp as a whip.

Karen yelped and immediately straightened up. "I'm on it, Lady Agatha!" She blurted out before rushing off to comply with her mentor's orders.

Agatha snorted softly, shaking her head as if bemused by Karen's behavior. "Youth, wasted on the young," She muttered, more to herself than to anyone else. Her gaze flickered back to Ezra. "You a smart mouth too, boy?"

Ezra considered lying, but really, what was the point? He gave a slight shrug and answered truthfully, "Of course." He wasn't enthused with being called boy, but he supposed when you got to Agatha's level of power - you could do, and say, whatever the fuck you wanted.

Because really? Who was going to stop her? He certainly wasn't going to pick a fight over just words.

Agatha sighed, leaning heavily on her cane. "Of course you are," She repeated, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "Now, lend me your arm. Let an old lady lean on you as we walk."

Ezra hesitated, knowing full well that Agatha didn't need his assistance. She was one of the most formidable trainers in the region, if not the world, and her physical frailty was more an illusion than reality. But he couldn't refuse without being blatantly rude, and he had a feeling he would need every ounce of goodwill he could muster for whatever was coming next.

He forced a polite smile and offered his arm. "Of course, Lady Agatha," He said, trying to keep his tone respectful.

As they walked toward the referee's tent, the crowd parted for them, whispers and curious glances following in their wake. Ezra could feel the tension in the air, a mix of awe and apprehension directed at the elderly member of the Elite Four and the young upstart who had just bested her apprentice.

There's no way this conversation ends well…