Chapter 181: Ice Field! Vs. Will (1)
~Third POV~
[Kanto Region, Evening, Indigo Plateau – Restaurant]
Later in the evening, inside a restaurant, the Johto Dex Holders Silver, Crystal, and Gold all sat together eating dinner. With the competition dwindling from the Top 64 to the Top 32, Gold slumped down in a defeated tone, "Argh… to think all of us that were given a Pokedex from the Professor were knocked out of the preliminaries… it annoys the hell out of me."
Crystal, wanting to know more about the other Dex Holders other than herself, replied sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head, "Yeah, no kidding. I would've thought with my skills, I continued a bit further, but to get knocked out at the beginning…"
No words needed to be said as she got crushed. Silver took the chance to sip his drink as he added calmly, "Yeah. But he is the Ninth Champion for a reason. Even if he wasn't using his main team, his Johto Team crushed us, not even showing a fraction of his main team's strength."
Gold eyes shot open, hearing that as Crystal added, shrugging her shoulders, "Yeah. I've seen his Pikachu must be one of his weakest on his team, right?"
But she was then interrupted as their friends and fellow Dex Holders, Yellow and Green, arrived holding their plates. Green interrupted nonchalantly, "You would be wrong, dear. His Pikachu? That's his ace Pokémon."
Coming along, Crystal blinked in surprise along with Silver. Gold asked doubtfully of Green's claims of Azure's ace, "You mean his small electric mouse is his ace? I find that hard to believe, no offense."
Gesturing towards Yellow's Chu-Chu, who glared at him, Yellow replied sheepishly, "I suppose no offense taken?"
Chu-Chu stuck her tongue out in spite. Green chuckled as she gazed at Silver with a look of concern, as she said cautiously, "And you lil' bro? Didn't get your feelings hurt that much battling him when he showed off?"
Silver smiled, leaning his back against his chair as he said with a light smile, crossing his arms, "No. I found it… enlightening. Despite forming a new team, he managed to create such a force to be reckoned with. I can see how he became the Champion and how much I need to grow to surpass him."
Gold looked surprised at Silver's declaration as Crystal supported him in a friendly tone, "Oh? Then I can help if you need a sparring partner to go against him. If not, I can let you keep any Pokémon I've captured on my journey."
Silver nodded with a childish blush as Green snickered, seeing this as she thought, 'Oh boy… I've got so much teasing material.'
While Green looked at the Dex Holders talking to each other, she checked her Rotom Phone, seeing that the matches would consist of 3-on-3 Pokémon battles. She grinned slyly as she thought, clenching Moltres' Poke Ball, 'When it comes to the Top 16 Azure… I won't lose to you like I did before. You're facing a whole new Green.'
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[Kanto Region, Evening, Elsewhere, Indigo Plateau – Restaurant]
As Green was enjoying her dinner with the Johto Dex Holders, along with Yellow, at another restaurant, three people were eating Dinner together. Those 3 consisted of Blue, Red, and Azure as they discussed some topics.
The first to follow up on the topic of training, Blue raised an eyebrow curiously, "So you've used a literary Legendary Pokémon like Ho-Oh, and I quote this from you, 'you threw a rat at god and the rat won', do I find that right?"
Azure chuckled as Pikachu was eating ketchup from the side and Eevee mustard as he replied helplessly, "Yeah, that about sums it up. Having some top healers on the team increases my Pokémon experience and endurance. I have a Mythical and Legendary that specializes in healing."
Gesturing towards Celebi eating Mayo along with the condiment duo, arguing which sauce is great, Red asked curiously at their interaction, "Is it safe for them to be eating just Mustard, Ketchup, and Mayo? Seems unhealthy."
Azure helplessly sighs as his Celebi, Pikachu, and Eevee go into debate mode to see which condiment is the superior one. He chuckles in a defeated tone, "Sigh… yeah, but they're addicted to it for some odd reason. But I'm not gonna go into stopping this debate against powerful Pokémon, whose sauce is best. I'll let them settle that themselves."
Blue and Red blinked as they turned their attention to Azure's Pokémon, who were in a heated debate over which condiment was superior. Blue was the first to speak as he said sarcastically, "Right… Welp! Changing the subject, I see that we all managed to make it this far into the Tenth Pokémon League Tournament. Just one more battle till the Top 16."
Azure nodded with his arms crossed with a confident grin on his face as he casually declared, "Yeah. And I'm planning on keeping my winning streak in Tournaments untouched. And it won't break when I challenge you two."
Red smirked, hearing that, as he adjusted his cap, as his Pika is taking Azure's Pikachu side, as he replied confidently, "Heh. Sure, for now… but don't think Green, Blue, or I have been lazing off while you were in Johto. We've all trained up to win this year, and I'll be sure to defeat you in the finals!"
Blue scoffed, hearing Red's bold words, with his arms crossed, and spoke arrogantly with his head held up high, "Tch. Like you could reach the finals. Unlike last time, Red, I'll win this year's Tournament and bring home the gold to Pallet Town. And besides, I'm curious to see how we stack up against each other, Azure, in a no-holds-barred 6-on-6 Pokémon battle."
Azure grinned, his eyes glinted dangerously, sensing blue and red's challenge, adjusting his cap as he said casually, "Oh? Come to think of it, we've never actually battled each other in the Tournament before or outside, have we?"
Blue paused, rubbing his hand under his chin as he slyly grinned, chuckling at the idea nonchalantly, "Hmm… Haha! You know that's a good point! But I suppose you'll be a decent stepping stone for me to reach the top."
Azure chuckled as he added smugly, "Sure… No.3."
Blue eyes twitched at being called No.3, as that was the placement from the previous Pokémon League Tournament after beating Green to see who would get third place for the tournament. He gritted his teeth, scoffing, "Tch. You jerk… You can laugh it off till I beat you and everyone else to reach the top!"
Red chuckled as he slyly added further irritating Blue as he glared at them, "Sure thing, Blue… but you're still a third-rate Trainer with a Third Rate Team. But it's nice to have a dream, right, buddy?"
Blue flew into an argument between the two as it got a bit messier with name-teasing. And then Blue smirked as he said, causing Azure to stiff, "Oh? Is that how we're gonna play? Fine, let's burn each other! So Azure… I've heard you got defeated by a Slowpoke? Care to explain?"
Azure froze, hearing that, as he turned away. Red blinked as he slowly grinned, grabbing his friend's shoulder, eagerly awaiting this moment, "Oh! I've got to hear this! I mean, how does one lose to a Slowpoke Azure!"
Azure shot a look at his Pokémon, Pikachu, Eevee, and Celebi, with a pleading expression on his face to get him out. They stopped arguing, chuckling as they all said to him, "Pika! Bei! Bui! (Nah. We gotta watch this play out!)"
Azure shot a glare at that as Blue smugly explained, as he heard the news from Green, who heard the news from Silver. Red laughed, hearing his story, much to Azure's embarrassment...
Afterward, the Dex Holders all returned to their Trainer Village Huts, as did Azure. While returning to his hut, Azure checked his Arc Phone, seeing his next opponent smiling, "Oh? It seems like I'll be up against Will next… I wonder which Pokémon I should choose for this 3-on-3 battle…"
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[Kanto Region, Next Day, Indigo Plateau – Ice Field]
The roar of the crowd was a living, breathing entity, a colossal wave of anticipation that crashed against the grand stadium walls of the Tenth Pokémon League Tournament. For Azure Sky, it was a familiar symphony, the crescendo of a journey that had spanned years, countless battles, and an unwavering bond with his Pokémon.
From the chaotic, sprawling preliminaries that had begun with 256 hopeful trainers, he had carved his path, battling through dense forests, scorching deserts, and stormy seascapes, until only the elite top 32 remained. He had faced every type, every strategy, and emerged stronger.
At his side, as always, were his steadfast partners: Pikachu, a beacon of crackling energy perched on his shoulder, its tail twitching with excitement, and Eevee, nestled comfortably in the crook of his arm, its soft fur a comforting presence.
The digital display above the main arena flickered, cycling through matchups. Azure's eyes tracked it, a small thrill igniting in his chest when his name appeared. The screen came to life, revealing his matchup.
[In the Ice Field: Azure Sky vs. Will]
Next to Will's name, the symbol for the Psychic type glowed. Azure's smile widened, a glint of steel entering his eyes. A shiver, not of cold but of anticipation, ran down Azure's spine as he muttered, "I suppose it's time to face Will."
This was it. A true test.
The Ice Field. A treacherous stage for any trainer, where footing was uncertain, and the biting cold could drain resolve. He knew Will was a master of mental fortitude, his Psychic Pokémon known for their precision and overwhelming special power.
An Ice Field would only amplify the challenge, demanding an even greater tactical approach. Azure murmured curiously, stroking Eevee's head and lightly tapping Pikachu's ear, "Ready for this, guys?"
Pikachu chirped, sparks dancing around its cheeks, "Pika!"
Eevee nodded, its eyes bright as it cried out, "Eevee!"
Azure nodded back, his gaze fixed on the tunnel leading to the Ice Field arena. This wasn't just another battle; it was a statement.
The air grew crisp, then bitingly cold, as Azure stepped onto the Ice Field. The arena was breathtaking: a vast expanse of polished, translucent ice, shimmering under the stadium lights like a colossal diamond.
Jagged ice formations rose like frozen spires at the perimeter, catching the light and refracting it into dazzling rainbows. A chill mist hung low, swirling around their ankles, adding to the ethereal, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The cold bit into Azure's cheeks, but his focus was absolute. Across the field, Will stood, an imposing figure even in his placid demeanor.
He was clad in an elegant, formal suit, his short, purple hair slicked back, and his eyes, though calm, held an unnerving depth along with a mask. He exuded an aura of profound tranquility, a stark contrast to the raw power he wielded.
The crowd, a distant roar beyond the insulating ice, seemed to hold its breath. Azure chuckled lightly, muttering to himself, "Haha… at least his not wearing that clown get-up from the manga. At least he knows how to present himself."
The referee, bundled in a thick parka, raised a gloved hand. He announced, "Trainers, please send out your first Pokémon!"
Will's voice, surprisingly deep and resonant, cut through the chill as he declared, "Slowbro, show them the power of tranquility."
*Pop*
A Poké Ball unfurled, and with a flash of light, a large, pink Pokémon with a shell clamped onto its tail materialized. Slowbro, its eyes half-lidded, seemed utterly unperturbed by the cold, radiating a subtle Psychic energy that seemed to hum in the air.
Azure's eyes narrowed, a flicker of understanding passing through them. Slowbro. A Psychic/Water type. Resilient, powerful, and known for its high Special Attack and Defense. On an Ice Field, its Water attacks would be devastating, and its Psychic powers could manipulate the slippery terrain.
Azure thought seriously, 'A solid opener.'
Azure called, his voice clear and firm as he grasped a Poké Ball from his belt in a proud tone, declared, "Alright, Venusaur! Let's show them our spirit!"
*Pop*
His own Poké Ball opened, and with a heavy thud that reverberated slightly across the ice, Venusaur appeared. It's massive, floral back pulsed with vibrant energy, its vines twitching, exhaling a puff of vapor into the cold air.
The Grass/Poison type was a powerhouse, known for its bulk and offensive capabilities. It was a calculated risk; while it resisted Slowbro's Water attacks, its Psychic weakness was undeniable weakness to overcome.
But Azure had a plan. Venusaur was a heavy-hitter, and its weight was going to be an advantage on this slick surface.
The referee declared, dropping their hand, "Trainers, begin!"
Azure commanded, his arm sweeping forward, "Venusaur, Razor Leaf!"
*PEW*
Venusaur let out a guttural roar, and from the edges of its flower, dozens of sharpened leaves erupted, spinning like emerald sawblades. They sliced through the air with surprising speed, heading straight for Slowbro.
Will remained impassive. He countered, "Slowbro, Protect."
*CLANG*
A shimmering, translucent green barrier flickered into existence around Slowbro just as the Razor Leaves struck. They dissipated harmlessly against the shield, a testament to Slowbro's defensive prowess.
Will's voice was calm, almost melodic as he took the battle seriously, ordered, "Now, Slowbro, Psychic!"
*Shiii*
Slowbro's eyes opened a fraction wider, glowing with an eerie blue light. A wave of invisible force, heavy and oppressive, slammed into Venusaur.
The massive Grass-type grunted, its body shaking as it was pushed back a few feet, its feet skidding dangerously on the ice. Despite the super-effective hit, Venusaur held its ground, its roots digging in metaphorically.
Azure countered quickly, "Hold steady, Venusaur! Use Sleep Powder!"
*Pooof*
He knew he had to disrupt Slowbro's momentum. From Venusaur's flower, a cloud of iridescent, sparkling green powder billowed out, drifting slowly but inexorably towards the Psychic Pokémon.
Will instructed, his voice barely above a whisper, "Reflect."
*Shiii*
Slowbro focused, and another shimmering barrier, this one prismatic, formed around it. The Sleep Powder drifted against it, but the barrier seemed to contain its effects, preventing it from reaching Slowbro.
Azure grimaced as he thought, cautiously analyzing his opponent, 'Will was good. Predictably so. His Psychic defenses were impeccable.'
Seeing how Will defended himself, Azure smirked as he quickly ordered, "Okay, Venusaur, use Vine Whip! Go for the tail!"
*Whip*
Two thick, powerful vines shot out from Venusaur's back, cracking like whips as they lashed towards Slowbro's Shellder-clamped tail. The goal wasn't just damage, but to disrupt its balance on the ice.
Will's command was immediate, "Slowbro, Ice Beam!"
*PEW*
A blast of frigid blue energy erupted from Slowbro's mouth, intercepting one of Venusaur's vines mid-air. Ice crystals instantly formed, encasing the vine and causing it to snap, leaving Venusaur with only one functional whip.
The other vine wrapped around Slowbro's tail briefly, but the cold from the Ice Beam had already begun to numb Venusaur's attack. Will pressed his advantage as he ordered, "Now, Hydro Pump!"
*SPLASH*
Slowbro unleashed a powerful jet of water, cutting through the misty air. Venusaur, still recovering from the snapped vine, took the full force of the attack. It was a direct hit, sending the Grass-type sliding backwards several yards on the ice, scraping its bulb on the slick surface.
Venusaur roared in pain, struggling to regain its footing, "Saurr!!!"
Azure urged, knowing Venusaur was in a tight spot, "Focus, Venusaur! Anchor yourself! Energy Ball, let's go!"
Venusaur, with surprising agility for its size, managed to dig its remaining vine into a small crevice in the ice, stabilizing itself. It then conjured a glowing green orb of energy, alarming Will of the danger.
Will commanded, his eyes gleaming, "Slowbro, use Disable!"
As the Energy Ball was forming, Slowbro's eyes glowed fiercely, and a wave of raw Psychic power washed over Venusaur. But that was enough as Azure declared, "Now for our secret technique!! EAT IT!"
The Energy Ball was slowly dissipating, but Venusaur chomped down. While faulty, it was enough as it gulped it down.
*GULP*
Will paused as he blinked processing what occurred, muttering out loud in a stunned tone, "I… I'm sorry, but did it eat its move?"
*SHIII*
But his answer was revealed as Venusaur powered up as its Overgrow ability activated. His Pokémon was empowered as it grinned as Azure declared, "Perfect! Now, Grass Terrain followed by Agile Style Grassy Glide!"
*STOMP*
Stomping on the ground, Venusaur expands a light green dome on the Ice Field. The light green light surrounds inside and outside the dome, making the ice field glow a green aura, making it glow green light, and powering up grass-type moves.
Will's eyes narrowed, having a sneaking suspicion of something bad happening. He gritted his teeth as he hastily made a command, "I don't like how this looks, and I'm not in the mood to be surprised by his tactics. Slowbro! Ice Beam!"
*Zoooom*
Just as Slowbro began to charge up an Ice Beam, Will's eyes widened, seeing Venusaur vanish immediately. But then he saw the Seed Pokémon already behind Slowbro, thanks to Grassy Glide allowing it to glide on the ground.
Azure smirked as he saw Venusaur's momentum swiftly charge through the battlefield. He knew that combining Grass Terrain and Grassy Glide would grant Grassy Glide priority, always going first, so long as Grassy Terrain was active.
*Zap*
No words were needed as Venusaur fires a dark green energy beam from its giant flower on its back, taking away massive health from Slowbro. Slowbro recoiled in great pain as it was hit by a boosted Giga Drain.
Will stood there stunned as Azure calmly grinned as he thought of seeing his plan in motion in a casual tone, 'With Grassy Terrain up boosting Grass Type moves by 50% and Venusuar's Overgrow ability boosting Grass Type moves by 50% thanks to eating the Energy Ball... well 100% Grass Type boosted damage adding on Miracle Seeds's 20% boost to Grass Type moves… that Slowbro ain't living a fully powered 120% boosted Grass Type attack…'
Azure, knowing that Venusaur's 100 SP. Atk, along with a base attack, Giga Drain, being 75, would deal devastating damage. And it proved true as Slowbro fainted from that as Slowbro's Sp. Def of 80 couldn't withstand the attack.
*THUD*
Slowbro fainted on the spot as Venusaur grinned, regaining its health and stamina back to 100% full capacity. A collective gasp rose from the crowd as Will gritted his teeth, muttering to himself, "This… I didn't foresee this happening..."
Slowbro lay still, swirls of dizzying stars above its head. The referee announced, "Slowbro is unable to battle! Venusaur wins!"
Will frowned, feeling the pressure on him as Azure grinned, feeling the joy of the battle. The battle to the top has just begun!
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A/N: Reach the goal of 150 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!