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The New Normal - 17-6 - INTERLUDE - POKENET REACTIONS
🕑 Added 2025-08-04 15:14:50 +0000 UTCThe New Normal – 17-6 – INTERLUDE – POKENET REACTIONS
[DRAKE FIGHTS BRUNO! THE FIRST-EVER FOREIGNER CHALLENGE TO AN ELITE FOUR MEMBER!] By Battlecast
[Pictures of the battle. Annihilape is featured frequently]
This was the battle that we’ve all been waiting for. Ever since Drake made his declaration against Bruno, we all knew that the man was going to accept – giving his ambitions to become the first-ever foreign Elite Four member to be appointed.
As a result, the hype for this battle was unreal. Not only because of the political implications for such a battle, but also because of Drake’s reputation as the strongest member of the Hoenn Elite Four. Normally, it would be seen as an exceptionally foolish decision to challenge him, but if there was anyone who could do so, then Bruno was definitely going to be it.
And the battle between them very much lived up to all that hype.
Both trainers really showed off the sheer tenacity and strength of their Pokémon. Unlike other battles that we’ve seen where the focus revolves more around tricks and clever strategies, the battle between Drake and Bruno seemed completely decided by their Pokémon’s prior training – to see which trainer had managed to bring out the most of their Pokémon’s potential. In other words, the battle was a complete slugfest.
However, that wasn’t to say that there weren’t any big surprises! Far from it! Prior to the battle, our analysts here at Battlecast were very curious to see how Bruno would overcome the wall that was Drake’s Gyarados. A Pokémon with a proven history of completely dominating any fights of strength, and was considered to be the physically strongest Pokémon in the entire region.
Yet, thanks to Bruno’s Annihilape, that is no longer the case. This is the first time we’ve seen Annihilape in battle since its evolution, and what a performance it was able to show off. We never thought we would see a Pokémon that could muster up more rage than a Gyarados, but here it was.
Annihilape looked utterly unbeatable at close range, and somehow had the strength overpower Gyarados while it was Outraging. That is a feat that even Wallace was unable to accomplish while he was still Champion!
And that’s not all, as Bruno also showed off a completely new move with his Machamp that managed to land the decisive blow against Salamence…[Click here to continue reading]
Comments
NotTooMuchWater
Never thought I’d see the day when Drake would actually lose an official challenge for his position, but it was a well-fought win for Bruno. All the politics aside, he deserved that victory. No wonder Steven was so confident about his chances.
Though that makes me wonder, how much of his victory was thanks to Steven? Or was it all based on Bruno’s own merits?
SlugmaBalls
Yeah, Bruno really proved that there are Fighting type specialists, and then there are Fighting type specialists. He really was on a different level to the common Fighting type trainers that you see all the time.
Anyone else think that Bruno could have taken on and also won against all the other Elite Four members as well? Given what he showed off against Drake, I really don’t think the others really stood much of a chance.
FlyingHigh
I agree. With Sidney and Glacia both having type specialties that are weak to Fighting, I’m not confident in their chances to beat Bruno. Maybe Phoebe would have a chance, but Bruno already showed off in that battle that he’s also very proficient with Dark type moves. So I’m pretty sure he’ll have a way to counter Phoebe as well. Though maybe I’m underestimating them too much – Sidney especially feels like he might be pull something out to even the scales a bit.
Nevertheless, I know many are praising Bruno for his win, but Drake deserves some love too. After serving in the Elite Four for so many years, it was inevitable that one day he was going to step down. And personally, I feel like he would be happy about losing his position in a glorious battle like this.
NotTooMuchWater
Actually, I don’t think the fact that Drake won’t be in the Elite Four anymore has settled in for me. Like, I’m happy for Bruno that he won, but I’m also sad that Drake has to go. He’s just done so much for Hoenn that a part of me just felt like he’d be in the Elite Four till the very end, you know? I know it’s impossible, but why can’t they both stay?
TangelaThoughts
Personally, I won’t deny that this Bruno’s victory the outcome that I was hoping for. All respect to Drake, and I’m genuinely sad that he’s stepping down, but I want to see how the world will change and adapt to having a foreigner as an Elite Four member.
I’m very excited to see what Bruno will do now.
PunchingBag
CRY AND WEEP @DRAGONPOWER! YOUR SHITTY DRAGONS HAD ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ON THE POWER OF FIGHTING TYPES! THIS IS YOUR PROOF RIGHT HERE! BRUNO NUMBER ONE!!! HE EVEN WON WITH SHITTY NON-PURE FIGHTING TYPES LIKE THAT ANNIHILAPE!
JUST WATCH KIDDOS! NOW THAT BRUNO’S IN THE ELITE FOUR, HE’S GOING TO BE CHAMPION NEXT! NOTHING CAN STOP THE DOMINANCE OF THE FIGHTING TYPE! WEEP AND PROSTRATE YOURSELF NOW!
DragonPower
?!?!?! DRAKE IS SUCH A DISAPPOINTMENT! AGAIN, WHY WOULD HE BETRAY HIS DRAGONS LIKE THIS BY INCLUDING WEAK WATER TYPES IN HIS ROSTER?! IT MAKES NO SENSE! HE DESERVED TO LOSE! HE WOULD HAVE WON IF HE JUST SENT OUT 6 DRAGONS LIKE I TOLD HIM TO!
GeneralistGeneral
Okay, I never expected our first ever Ghost/Fighting type to be this strong. Probably should have expected it, since even Steven looked unnerved when it had first evolved. But WOW! Annihilape managed to overpower a GYARADOS of all things! And it made Drake wary enough to have to resort to taking it down with purely Special Attacks. He never does that.
We’re definitely going to see people catch more Mankey and Primeape just to evolve it from now on after that demonstration.
FlyingHigh
I really think that Pokémon should come with a warning though. Even when Bruno used it, and I consider him to be a great trainer, Annihilape did not look controllable.
LoveIsEterna
So now Steven has his bodyguard be made into his loyal Elite Four member, giving him further political influence. He’s basically got the same arrangement as Lance does with John. What a cunning guy.
TangelaThoughts
Let’s be honest, this is pretty much what everyone expected from Steven when he was made Champion. We all knew the kind of scheming that he was likely to get involved in.
That being said, I think that Wallace’s implicit approval of Bruno’s appointment goes very far into showing his trustworthiness. Given that he was willing to temporarily appoint Bruno as the Gym Leader of Sootopolis just so that he could make a challenge to Drake says a lot. I’m pretty sure that Steven isn’t’ doing this purely out of selfishness or a desire for more political power.
StageChampion (Verified POG)
Indeed! Though I have not met the man for very long, I can wholeheartedly state that Bruno is man of pure convictions and incorruptible will. After his splendid victory against Drake, I very much look forward to seeing what new things he will be bringing to Hoenn as a member of the Elite Four.
DragonKnight (Verified POGChamp)
Well done, Bruno. We will be watching your career with interest.
DarkRebel (Verified POG)
Good win! Looking forward to working with you!
=================
[BRUNO ASCENDS TO THE ELITE FOUR! WERE YOU THERE AT HIS ASCENSION CEREMONY!?] by The Hoenn Times
[Pictures of Bruno formally being sworn in as an Elite Four member. Drake is there as clapping his hands as well]
Following his impressive victory over Drake, it is now finally time to formally welcome Bruno into the ranks of the Hoenn Elite Four – making it the first time in history that a foreigner was able to take up the post of a region’s Elite Four.
And for such a historical occasion, our Champion has definitely ensured that the grandeur of this event very much on full display. He really rolled out the red carpet for this one, as the entire venue was lavishly decorated with the finest ornaments and extravagance that Hoenn has to offer.
What was equally as interesting was the presence of Drake at the event. It wouldn’t have been unusual for him to skip out, considering Bruno had taken his position from him. But we were fortunately able to speak with Drake and ask him directly:
“Why wouldn’t I be here? Or did you think just because I lost I would hold a grudge against Bruno? That’s pathetic. If anything, I’m pleased to see such young blood take up a leadership position, Arceus knows that it’s about time for us oldies to step down.”
We then asked him if he had any expectations about Bruno’s time in the Elite Four, and if he had any future plans for himself.
“Since when did you all think that I was interested in something as dumb as politics? I don’t give a *** about what Bruno does now that he’s in the Elite Four. Besides, he’d probably do a better job than me anyways. I have a good measure of his character, so I can say for ****** sure that he’ll be more diligent than I ever could be.”
“As for my future plans? Well, that’s none of your ******* business now is it?”
A very standard response from Drake. It’s good to see that he hasn’t taken his loss to heart.
As for the star of the whole ceremony, Bruno himself, he had this to say during his first ever speech as a member of the Elite Four.
“I understand that my ascension has been met with much scepticism and concern, given my background, but I will endeavour to prove to everyone that I am capable of continuing the legacy that Drake has left behind – who I am honoured to have replaced.”
“In the past, I would have never imagined myself in the halls of politics, and I was content at being a humble martial artist. Perhaps that is still the case. However, throughout my friendship with Steven, I have come to realise that I have the potential and ability to do good – and I believed it would be a waste for me to not give politics a chance. Especially because I do have my own personal values and beliefs that I would like to uphold.”
“Therefore, for my first proposal as a member of the Hoenn Elite Four, I am proposing for the establishment of tighter regulation and controls for businesses over a certain size – so that we will never have a repeat of what Cyrus and Galactic Company were able to accomplish. We have already bore witness to the type of damage that big businesses are capable of creating if left unchecked, and so it is in the interests of everyone that we have better regulations and checks on their powers.”
Hearing such a proposal coming out of the mouth of the martially-inclined Bruno was an enormous surprise, to the point where the entire venue was shocked in silence for a brief moment as everyone, this writer included, doubted their own ears. No one would have expected a proposal like that to come from Bruno of all things.
Yet, considering what is known of Bruno’s character and his righteous personality, perhaps such a proposal to limit corruption is not all that surprising. Furthermore, this could possibly indicate that despite their friendship, Bruno and Steven may not be entirely politically aligned with each other.
What are all your thoughts on Bruno’s proposal and ascension? Are you excited for his time in the Elite Four? Do you think he has the strength to hold onto his position? Let us know in the comments!
Comments
TangelaThoughts
I think that anyone thinking that Bruno’s political views are going to differ from Steven’s are highly underestimating Steven’s political skills. The first proposal of any new Elite Four member often sets the tone for much of their reign, and so Steven wouldn’t pass up on the opportunity to use it to send a message.
In my opinion, Steven is deliberately putting some distance between himself and Bruno. So on paper, this might seem like Bruno has dealt a wound to Steven, but make no mistake, I strongly believe that this was exactly what Steven wanted to happen. Steven and Bruno are very much allies, and anyone trying to separate the two are simply going to find themselves falling into Steven’s trap.
FlyingHigh
Fully agree with that analysis. I know some might think that Bruno’s proposal might negatively harm Steven, given his relationship with Devon Corp, but I sincerely doubt that Steven wouldn’t have made preparations in advance. In fact, if he plays this right, I’m sure Devon Corp will benefit greatly from this proposal.
With Bruno’s ascension into the Elite Four, I am fully certain that both he and Steven will be dominating Hoenn politics for the years to come. And with Bruno’s strength, it’s not like anyone’s going to be knocking him out of the Elite Four anytime soon.
SlugmaBalls
I mean, can anyone think of any current candidates that might be able to pose a threat to Bruno? Because I’m running through all of our Gym Leaders and I don’t think anyone can actually beat him.
Also, interesting that Drake didn’t make his own challenge after he lost – as was his right. He could have challenged any of the other Elite Four members, but chose not to. I guess that just shows that he’s satisfied with the outcome too.
FearTheRat
Why wouldn’t he be? The man has worked so hard for so long. And we all knew how much he disliked politics. The man was born to battle, not sit behind a desk in an office.
I also doubt that this is the last we’ve seen from Drake even now that he’s no longer in the Elite Four. Knowing him, he’s probably going to be pretty active doing who knows what. But like he said, it’s “none of our fucking business” anyways!
RuinsManiac
I think everyone’s going to be observing Bruno and his time in the Elite Four very closely. As the first foreign Elite Four member ever, expectations for him are going to be high. But I’m confident he’ll be able to stand up to the task at hand.
SeaDrake (Verified POG)
I normally never bother with these posts, but I want to make something clear. Bruno may not be born in Hoenn, but unless you’re a fucking idiot, that isn’t a reason to look down on him. And if you don’t trust my old ass, then trust the others still in the Elite Four. Bruno has their respect too.
Anyways, good luck Bruno. I hope you enjoy dealing with those parasites in the Committee more than I did. If one of them annoys you too much, then feel free to punch them in the face for me. Trust me, it’s very cathartic. Even better if you knock their teeth out.
JohnSmith (Verified POG)
Congratulations, Bruno. I know you’ve worked very hard to be where you are today. It was great seeing your battle against Drake – you’ve really improved a lot since our last battle.
I look forward to working with you in the future as well.
BlondeQueen (Verified POGChamp)
All the best to you, Bruno! Steven’s talked about you a lot, so I know you’ll settle right in to your new position.
And Drake, I know you’re reading this, but if you’re looking for something to do now that you’re free from your old responsibilities, feel free to come over to Sinnoh if you’re feeling up for it!
DragonKnight (Verified POGChamp)
Or, if you’re feeling up for visiting some Dragons, I can ensure that the Blackthorn clan gives you a warm welcome. Just a thought.
SeaDrake (Verified POG)
Hah! You’re both haggling over me like I’m some shiny Magikarp. No need to fret, I’ll be sure to give you both a heads up if I ever do come knocking.
==============
[ELITE JOHN STEPPING DOWN FROM THE ELITE FOUR!? GYM LEADER WILL TO TAKE HIS PLACE!?] by The Indigo Post
[Pictures taken of the ascension ceremony. John and Will are featured prominently, with both of them on the podium giving their speeches]
Even for those who were tuned into the latest rumours coming out of the Indigo League, John’s surprising decision to depart from the Elite Four would have certainly still been a massive shock. Of course, for those following the news coming out of Sinnoh, then you will know that his departure from the Elite Four is because he has chosen to take up a new position as the Protector-Guardian of Sinnoh.
This position is a new role that, as almost every analyst agrees, was deliberately created for John to take over. And it was only natural for him to do so, given that there could be no other better guardian for the Legendary Titan than the man who first awoke it in the first place and was the one to fight alongside it against the dominated Legendary of Space.
Considering this, and John’s own personal circumstances as Champion Cynthia’s partner, it is logical that John would have taken on this new position rather than remain in Indigo. However, all of Indigo would be sure to mourn his loss – we will not forget the many things that he has done for us.
As for his successor, there could be no one better to take up the position than Will, given that he was formerly in the Elite Four until he was ousted by Koga and was a colleague of the current Elite Four roster. Before his departure, Will had been widely considered to be a popular, competent, and business-minded member of the Elite Four. His mind for business actually fills in a gap within the current roster of the Indigo Elite Four, as none of them are quite so financially-minded compared to Will.
On that note, in his ascension speech, Will promised that he would continue with his previously unfinished goals that were cut short by his loss to Koga. Considering that his previous policies have led to great financial success for Indigo, this can only be a good thing.
However, even with this in mind, Will is going to have a tough time trying to fill in the colossal shoes of his predecessor. We here at the Indigo Post firmly believe that it would not be an exaggeration to state that John’s reign and achievements during his time in the Elite Four have been the foundation of modern day politics, both regional and international. There will be a follow-up article discussing John’s impact on our region in more detail, so keep an eye out for that if you are interested.
Either way, we are very interested to hear about what your reactions and thoughts were when you heard about John’s departure.
Comments
ANormalFan
NOOOOO JOHN DON’T LEAVE US PLEASE!! WHAT WILL WE DO WITHOUT YOU!?!? WHY DO YOU HAVE TO GO TO SINNOH SURELY YOU CAN BE APPOINTED AS THEIR PROTECTOR WHILE STILL BEING IN THE ELITE FOUR!
SlugmaBalls
Woah John’s actually stepping down from the Elite Four?!? No fucking way. I thought that with his strength and influence that he would be here to stay forever! What the fuck made him leave?!
FlyingHigh
Well, I think he would have stayed if not for this new position. And looking from his perspective, there’s very little reason why he wouldn’t accept. Taking on his new position still allows him to retain most of his political power, as he’s basically an Elite Four in all but name, and he gets to be closer not only with his romantic partner, but also with a Legendary that he obviously has a connection with. It’s a win-win for him.
…It’s a big shame for Indigo though. John’s presence would be sorely missed by everyone.
TangelaThoughts
I mean I saw this coming when that new Protector position got announced. Even before they confirmed John’s appointment, it was very obvious that this role was tailor-made for him by Cynthia. I wouldn’t even be surprised if this was a political scheme that they’ve been planning out for years now. Knowing them, they probably did so.
Still, I’m sad that he’s leaving too. John has done so much, and if he had stayed, I’m sure he would have done so much more.
KantoRepresent
I’ve submitted an online petition demanding that John remains in Indigo. For those of you who understand why this necessary, then sign here immediately. John must not leave – and the Indigo League must do all they can to disallow it.
ILoveGoldenRod
Oh stop it. Why are you trying to tie him down like this anyways? He’s free to do what he likes.
KantoRepresent
For the good of Indigo, he must stay. He should not be given the choice. His presence and value to our region is too high to allow him to leave. The greater good must prevail. So sign now!
GodBidoof
HAHAHAH WE GET JOHN HAHAHAHAHAHAHA I GUESS HAVING A HOT AND BEAUTIFUL CHAMPION HAS ITS OWN PERKS AFTER ALL!!!!
Gardevoir34
Okayyyy but this is soooo romantic though?! Like, John and Cynthia were so in love with each other that they went as far as to upturn the entire political scene just so that they could be together!!!
AND THEY SAY ROMANCE IS DEAD!!!! THEY ARE THE PROOF THAT IT ISN’T!!
ElesaFan
Man you guys’ politics are soooo weird. I couldn’t imagine something like this happening in Unova. But it’s a good kind of weird – like watching a drama.
Okay, now we just need a reality TV show into both of John and Cynthia’s lives. I’d watch the fuck out of that.
PianoLover
I’m happy for the both of them. And I doubt that this is the last we’ve seen of John’s influence in Indigo. Even though he’s moving over to Sinnoh, I know full well that he’s still going to be helping out behind-the-scenes.
TangelaThoughts
That’s very true. I’m pretty sure many of John’s friends and connections are still going to reach out to him for his assistance from time to time. There’s no chance that he’s going to be out of the loop just because he’s no longer in Indigo.
Don’t forget that Lance and John are proven to be very good friends, and with the Regional Union now in place, working together between regions has become easier than ever. So John’s presence will still be felt in Indigo, I guarantee it.
ILoveGoldenRod
Oh, speaking of Lance, now that John’s gone (and shame that he is, btw), who do you think is going to be the ‘second-in-command’ within the Indigo Elite Four?
My money’s on Lorelei or Koga. Lorelei, because she’s been in the Elite Four the longest amongst them, and because of her influence with the International Police. Or Koga, because of his veteran experience.
FlyingHigh
I think you guys are all overlooking Karen as a possibility. Everyone knows how close she was to John, and so with him gone, it might be time for her to take up his mantle in his place. Her political views are definitely aligned with his, after all, so she might actually be a better ‘successor’ than Will.
FearTheRat
LOL Will must be sulking. His recent ascension into the Elite Four is all overshadowed by the fact that John’s retiring. It must suck for him.
PsychicWill (Verified POG)
On the contrary, I do not begrudge the public for focusing more on John’s departure than myself. If anything, it is well deserved for John to be in the spotlight right now. His exit from Indigo is definitely more important than my own ascension into the Elite Four.
Besides, I already celebrated it once. There’s no need for me to do so again, not when I regained this position without a battle.
SkyWalker (Verified POG)
Oh man, I can’t believe I missed something like this! The one time I decide to take a week-long trip away from civilisation and this is what happens?! John! I’m sorry I wasn’t there! But I’m wishing you the best in your future ventures too!
And Will! Welcome back.
SamuelOak
Thank you for your service, John. May you find happiness in Sinnoh as well. I look forward to seeing what you and Cynthia will be able to craft together.
ChillGirl (Verified POG)
Phew, I still can’t believe you’re coming over, John. When Cynthia told me about it I almost didn’t believe her. Then again, something like this is right up her alley, and I’m glad that you’re both finally able to be together.
Let’s talk more when you’re here!
TheRealBoss (Verified POG)
John, the years that you’ve spent as a member of our Elite Four has been monumental to our current success and prosperity. I am sincerely and truly honoured to call you a friend.
Indigo will certainly mourn your departure. But you deserve to be with your partner – and that is something I now understand all too well. So all I shall do is wish you all the best. Hopefully we can meet again in person soon.
ElectricModel (Verified POG)
Good luck! I think you and Cynthia are really sweet together, so I’m glad you’re able to finally be together!
SeaDrake (Verified POG)
We may not be in the Elite Four anymore, John, but if you need someone to help you crush a few fuckers, then I’m your man. Just call me and I’ll rush over as always. See you in Sinnoh!
IcyTrainer (Verified POG)
Whether intentionally or not, you have taught me much about how to survive and thrive in the Elite Four. And it was your successes that I capitalised on to grow my influence to what it is now. So thank you, John, for how much you’ve done for me. Both as a friend, and as an ally.
DarkManager (Verified POG)
Don’t forget. This isn’t a “goodbye” – this is just a “see you later”. Have fun over there! And I look forward to hearing about you soon!
A.N. With how momentous of an event John’s departure is and Bruno’s ascension into the Elite Four was, I felt that having a Pokenet Interlude now rather than later was better. This one was definitely more comment-heavy than the others, but that’s because I felt that it was better to focus on the comments given the subject matter. Hope you enjoyed!
Comments
Simplexity
Agh I'm still so saaaaaaaaad!!!!! I know you got goth snow bunny hypnotized by Cynthia but Indigo needs you John!!!!!
Hooli4ss
When you see Pokenet , joy enters the chat immediately. Oak said my thoughts exactly . Future Drake and John team ups will be crazy as always.
