Now, I know exactly zero Japanese, but from reading some of Dogasu's backpack, the tone it's spoken in makes a lot in the meaning in the words.
I found Volkner being depressed similar to Paul, at least in tone. His voice was, for the most part, very soft and nonchalant. He's not a jerk, he just doesn't care. I thought it came across perfectly when he called Flint "Mr. Elite Four." That kind of said, to me, that on top of not having any decent challengers, Volkner feels abandoned by his best friend. He hides this by throwing himself into his work. And since his job as Gym Leader isn't providing him with work, he goes to technology.
That being said, I could be completely wrong and someone who knows the language can correct me.
Elite 4 battles have been done very well. Trainers that are still...well, training, shouldn't stand a chance.
After seeing Close Combat on Flint's Infernape, I would not mind Ash's learning that move (Mach Punch seems to not have priority in the anime, so it's basically a weaker version of Close Combat). Though Flamethrower just isn't cuttng it, and Flame Wheel basically seems to backfire all the time. It needs something strong that can hit from a distance. Overheat? Fire Blast? Blast Burn?
It was a nice little twist that Master was the poacher. I didn't catch that the first time I viewed this episode.
Also, on why Buziel used Ice Punch. Ice moves ALWAYS seem to freeze the opponent in the anime. So even if it's not effective, it's still useful.