Chapter 174: Prelude…
~Azure S. POV~
[Johto Region, Mahogany Town – Pokémon Center]
Waiting patiently within the Pokémon Center halls of Mahogany Town, I made sure to have my team checked out after that intense battle with Pryce. Nurse Joy said it'll take a few hours for them to be healed.
It was just that intense a battle with Pryce. I still felt the shivers down my spine battling that crazy old bastard.
Leaning my back against the chair, waiting patiently, I had Pikachu, Celebi, and Eevee sleep on my lap to pass the time. I've been informed of Pryce being gone, thanks to Celebi, at least knowing I have safety insurance in the future against God.
Still, to think I was pushed that much…
Closing my eyes, I guess I can't help but feel I have much to learn. I suppose that's a good thing, as I can still grow in the future along with my Pokémon.
Although I wonder what the other Dex Holders are up to…? They gotta be busy with the upcoming Tenth Pokémon League Tournament.
This year is gonna be very different, that's for sure. It's mostly because I added a few benefits and rules for them so that they can gather more profit, along with spending some cash on the construction idea.
But with some assistance from Pokémon, nothing is too impossible. Leaning my back, sighing out loud, I muttered, "Sigh… I wonder how this year's Indigo Plateau Conference is going to be…"
With Trainers like Will and Karen gunning for me, it just makes me wonder what the competition has in store. Other than Blue, Red, and Green entering, I just gotta wonder if anyone else would be joining?
And if those two future Gym Leaders and Elite Four members are entering… who else is gonna come to Kanto to test themselves?
*BEEP*
Before I could finish that line of thinking, my Arc Phone rang. Picking it up, I opened it up to reveal the Pokémon Association Chairman of Johto and Kanto.
Raising an eyebrow at this, I picked it up as I asked curiously, "Hello. This is Azure Sky here. What's the stitch?"
Revealing the Pokémon Association Chairman of Kanto and Johto as he spoke up in a serious tone, "Ah, good. Glad to finally contact you, young champion. I've heard that you managed to acquire all 8 Gym Badges in Johto, huh?"
Nodding my head in agreement with his claims, he spoke up, getting my immediate attention as he said proudly, "Good. Then I hope you are participating in the Tenth Annual Pokémon League Tournament? I'm assuming you'd like to get seeded into the finals – "
I interrupted him bluntly as I replied, shaking my head at his rash decision, "Nope! I'm joining the rest of the top 256 contestants in the Preliminary Rounds. A Champion must always battle and make sure they don't get rusty on the battlefield. Besides, I'll be bored if I wait that long…"
The Chairman sighed, hearing this, but suggested that I be present at the opening ceremony of the matches. On that, I can agree, I'll be present and be flashy, showing off to the crowd that I'm here.
The Chairman nodded his head in agreement as he began to explain the new rules of the Pokémon League. The Indigo Conference was an idea I had convinced the Pokémon Chairman to do for my reward for helping save Kanto.
And who said that heroes don't get rewarded for a job well done? Smiling, when I suggested the idea and the profit share, the Chairman agreed on the spot, as we've had time to prepare this project.
Besides, it was a wise move with how the Chairman wanted to promote a change in the system of Kanto and Johto. And with the PC Systems working again, they began to shift focus to showing the world the changes.
Because starting the tenth Pokémon League Tournament is when everyone would be allowed to enter for the last time. Everyone must have 8 Gym Badges to enter the Pokémon League, and only highly skilled trainers are allowed to enter.
Not only that, since people don't know much about the Gym Leaders, the Chairman of Johto and Kanto decided to put on an Exhibition Match between the Kanto and Johto Gym Leaders. What's the best way for them to get recognized than by showing their skills?
Smiling at the idea, I understood, but then he asked me curiously, getting my attention, "We have everything set up. But I would like for you to seek 4 Trainers that you believe have the potential of becoming the Elite Four of the Kanto and Johto Region. We have been wondering who you have in mind to be in the Elite Four?"
So, they're forming the Elite Four, huh?
I smirked as I easily replied, startling the Pokémon Chairman, "Easy. Bruno, a former member of Lance's Elite Four, former Gym Leader Koga from Kanto, and these two newbies. Karen and Will from Johto. They're powerful trainers and could be useful to the Pokémon League, helping guide the new generation of trainers. That's my input."
The Chairman blinked as I gave him some names, and he nodded. With that, he began to inform me of the date when the Pokémon League Indigo Conference would begin, "Good. I have something to work on when finding these people… but be sure to come in 2 months, Azure. That's when the Indigo Plateau Tenth Pokémon League Tournament begins."
*Beep*
Ending the call, I merely smiled as Nurse Joy soon came delivering my Pokémon to me as I thanked her. The time is almost come for the Tenth Pokémon League Tournament. Indigo Plateau, Tenth Pokémon League, or known as the Indigo Plateau Conference.
All the same name and meaning. But that means I'll have to focus on training the team I need for the Indigo Plateau…
Pikachu, Eevee, Arcanine, Dragonite, Gengar, Scizor, Houndoom, Quagsire, Tyranitar, Ampharos, Skarmory, Mismagius, Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur…
I did consider using Marshadow and Ho-Oh… but I decided not to. They'll be used as sparring partners for my main team, and using Ho-Oh just felt cheap in this Tenth Pokémon League Tournament, as I'll use it to sharpen my skills as a Trainer.
When compared to the previous time, I only had my main 6 partners, were we barely won against Red. But unlike before, though, I now have options to rely upon my trusted Pokémon that I've gained through my journey.
Standing up knowing I have plenty of time left, being 2 months. I have 2 months to train my Johto Team to acceptable levels before the main battle begins ahead… the Festival of Champions.
I have so much to do. To add flair to this world to my liking. Holding the GS Ball Pikachu perched over my shoulder, and Eevee on top of my head.
I smiled as I asked Celebi as we left the Pokémon Center in a curious tone, "Celebi… do you think you can use your time-travel to help me get to Pallet Town in a flash…"
Celebi looked at me excitedly as if waiting for this. I smiled, rubbing the onion head's head in a thankful tone, "Thanks… You're a lifesaver."
*Shiii*
Opening a brief portal reaching the crack of time. I smiled seeing some familiar faces as I stepped through the time ripple.
/////
~Third POV~
[Kanto Region, Pallet Town]
The bitter cold of Mahogany Town was replaced by the familiar warmth of a late Kanto summer afternoon. The scent of pine trees and fresh earth filled the air...
*Shiii*
Exiting out of Celebi's Time Travel Ripple, they stood on the outskirts of Pallet Town, the familiar silhouette of Professor Oak's lab in the distance. The change was instantaneous, seamless.
And then, a joyous cacophony erupted. From the vast fields and tranquil forests surrounding his home, Pokémon began to emerge, "Arf! Gen! Sci! Drooo!!"
A magnificent Arcanine, its fur the color of a sunset, bounded towards him, a deep bark of welcome. A majestic Dragonite soared down from the sky, its wings creating a powerful downdraft, before landing with a thud and wrapping Azure in a surprising, tender hug.
A sleek Scizor zipped through the air, its metallic pincers clicking a greeting, followed by a mischievous Gengar, phase-shifting in and out of existence, expressing its delight with spectral laughter.
These were his main Kanto team members, Pokémon who had journeyed with him through a different region, a different era of his life. But they weren't alone.
From the rustling bushes and towering trees, a veritable horde of his previously caught Pokémon emerged – a powerful Venusaur, a soaring Charizard, a bulky Blastoise, a graceful Lapras, and dozens more, all eager to greet their trainer. Pikachu and Eevee, initially wary of the stampede of affection, soon joined in, happy to reunite with old friends.
Azure's heart swelled. This was his family. This was his army.
He spent the rest of the day reacquainting himself with his vast collection of Pokémon, sharing stories of his Johto adventures, and allowing his Johto team to mingle with their Kanto counterparts. The bonds formed quickly, an unspoken camaraderie building between Pokémon who shared a common, beloved trainer.
As dusk settled, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Azure gathered his core team – his six Johto powerhouses, his Kanto veterans (Arcanine, Dragonite, Scizor, Gengar), and of course, Pikachu and Eevee.
Celebi hovered nearby, enjoying the shared warmth. Azure announced, his voice resonating with determination, "Alright, everyone. The League is two months away. This time, gifted to us by Celebi, is precious. We're not just going to train; we're going to transcend. We're going to push past every limit."
He then revealed his audacious plan. He explained carefully while holding Ho-Oh and Marshadow's Poke Balls, "We will be using a unique training method: Gravity Training. Certain Pokémon can generate powerful gravitational fields. My goal is to train all of you, especially my Johto team, under intensified gravity. This will build immense physical and special power, improve your endurance, and force you to adapt your speed and agility in ways you never thought possible."
His eyes gleamed as he raised his hands, clenching a Premier Ball and a Poke Ball. With a silent prayer, he released them, "And to achieve this, I've sought the assistance of two truly exceptional Pokémon."
*Pop*
From the Poke Ball, a shadowy, humanoid Pokémon emerged, its eyes glowing with an inner light. This was Marshadow, the Gloomdweller Pokémon, a master of stealth and disciplined combat, known for its ability to mimic foes. Its presence was cool, collected, yet undeniably powerful.
From the Priemer Ball, a magnificent burst of golden light erupted, coalescing into the form of Ho-Oh, the Rainbow Pokémon. Its vibrant, rainbow-coloured wings spread wide, casting a warm, almost sacred glow over the area. Ho-Oh's eyes, ancient and wise, surveyed the gathering with a gentle benevolence.
Its very presence seemed to purify the air, invigorating every fiber of being. This caught his Main Pokémon's attention as Azure explained, gesturing to the shadowy figure, "This here is Marshadow, who will challenge your combat adaptability, your precision, and your ability to anticipate. It will push your speed and agility, even under the effects of Gravity."
They nodded as they turned their attention to Ho-Oh, gazing at it with curiosity in its ancient eyes. He continued, turning to the legendary bird, "Ho-Oh… Will provide the guidance and recovery when needed, but more importantly... Ho-Oh will be your training partner to help you level up and give Ho-Oh the ability to use Strong and Agile Styles."
A wave of awe and excitement rippled through his Pokémon. This wasn't just training; it was an ascension.
The following days became a blur of intense, specialized training. Azure established a secluded training camp in a vast clearing bordering a rugged mountain range in Mt. Silver, to ensure privacy and safety thanks to Alakazam's Teleport.
Azure observed every session, noting progress, adjusting strategies, and offering encouragement. Pikachu and Eevee, his constant companions, would cheer from the sidelines, occasionally fetching water or berries, their presence a comforting anchor for Azure.
Celebi, true to its nature, would flit around, its cheerful chimes echoing through the camp, occasionally using its healing powers to mend minor scrapes or fatigue, ensuring the Pokémon were always at their best for the next challenge.
Marshadow was a relentless, silent teacher. It moved with impossible grace, its every strike precise, its every dodge flawless. It pushed the Johto team to think beyond brute force, to exploit openings, to read their opponents.
It showed Houndoom how to use its intimidation not just as a presence, but as a weapon to create momentary hesitation. It taught Tyranitar that even the mightiest Pokémon could benefit from a calculated feint.
Ho-Oh, on the other hand, was an inspiring, almost mystical mentor. Its Sacred Fire, used with unimaginable control, would create rings of intense heat or pillars of light that tested the Pokémon's focus and resilience without causing harm.
Its very aura seemed to invigorate them, pushing them past their physical exhaustion, awakening latent reserves of energy. It helped Skarmory understand the natural flow of air currents and how to exploit them, even under powerful gravitational forces.
It helped Ampharos channel its electrical energy with a purified intensity. Everyone was growing from the intense training session as their levels increased.
Not only was Ho-Oh up in the sky of Mt. Silver as Azure ordered calmly, "Alright, everyone! Give it everything you got, battling Ho-Oh!"
Ho-Oh nodded as it flapped its wings, roaring at them, "SCHREEE!!!"
*BOOOOM*
His Pokémon flinched as Ho-Oh unleashed its Pressure ability. They trembled under the pressure of Ho-Oh as it flapped its wings, causing the Johto team to tremble. The Kanto Trio flinched, but the Main Team steeled their resolve, eyeing the Rainbow Pokémon.
Even Azure flinched, trembling lightly with his Viridian Force shielding him from the pressure as he thought, amazed and terrified, 'Holy fuck, that's awesome and scary! Ho-Oh just used Pressure, but it felt like Conqueror Haki from One Piece!'
Azure trembled in fear and awe of Ho-Oh's power. But he didn't waver as he continued this type of training to sharpen not only his Pokémon strength but also his own will to handle pressure to adapt and overcome…
/////
[Johto Region, 2 Months Later, Mt. Silver – Outskirts]
The two months flew by in a whirlwind of sweat, strain, and spectacular breakthroughs. The Kanto team members, Arcanine, Dragonite, Scizor, and Gengar, pushed their Johto counterparts relentlessly, their experience, technique, skills, and power providing the perfect opposition.
They learned from each other, forging new bonds and strategies in the crucible of this unique training. By the end of the two months, the transformation was staggering as they adapted and improved.
Ampharos now moved with a surprising, almost fluid speed, its attacks carrying crushing force. Quagsire was a true tank, capable of shrugging off hits that would fell lesser Pokémon.
Mismagius danced through the air, its movements precise and deadly. Houndoom's flames burned with an infernal intensity, its attacks delivered with chilling accuracy.
Skarmory, while still preferring the air, was a formidable ground combatant, its steel body virtually impregnable. And Tyranitar… Tyranitar was a force to be reckoned with, its power magnified a hundredfold, its attacks leaving craters in the earth.
Azure stood at the edge of the training ground, watching his team. They were stronger, faster, and more resilient. But more importantly, they were a cohesive unit, their strengths woven together by shared struggle and mutual respect.
Pikachu sat on his shoulder, Eevee at his feet, both looking up at him, their expressions mirroring his pride. Celebi floated nearby, its cheerful chimes a soft melody of affirmation of their hard work.
He looked at the Premier Ball and Poke Ball still clutched in his hand. A smile touched his lips as he thanked them for their assistance. Their assistance, their willingness to share their incredible power and wisdom, had been an immeasurable gift.
The scent of pine, the warmth of the setting sun on his face, the sound of his Pokémon resting and interacting around him – it was perfect. He had used the time well.
He had pushed his team beyond their limits, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually. Azure murmured, his gaze fixed on the horizon, as if he could already see the distant stadium, "Indigo Plateau… We're ready. Tomorrow everything will go down."
The Tenth Pokémon League Tournament awaited, and Azure Sky, with his indomitable spirit and his extraordinary, battle-forged team, was about to make his mark on history. He grinned, eager for the Festival of Champions to begin.
/////
A/N: Reach the goal of 200 to get a Bonus Chapter!
On a side note, as the MC stated for this Tournament Arc, he'll only be using Pikachu, Eevee, Arcanine, Dragonite, Gengar, Scizor, Houndoom, Quagsire, Tyranitar, Ampharos, Skarmory, Mismagius, Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur.
I know the MC has more options, but he'll optimize on the ones he can pick and train effectively under his watch. So be sure to anticipate when the matches begin for different team rotations, changing things up.
Also, one more thing, I'm currently writing the Hoenn Arc, and I'm conflicted on which Fighting Type Pokemon to add for the MC Team. I wanted to ask which one would be a good pick for his Hoenn team: Machop line, Meditite line, Makuhita line, or Gallade?