Chapter 68: Prep-Time
~Azure POV~
[Kanto Region, Days Later, Viridian Forest – Hidden Grotto]
The Viridian Forest hummed with a life Azure Sky had almost forgotten amidst the polished floors and tense battles of the Kanto Gyms. Sunlight dripped through the emerald canopy, dappling the forest floor in shifting patterns of light and shadow.
Azure, his face smudged with dirt and sweat, surveyed his Pokémon team. Pikachu, his ever-reliable partner, crackled with restless energy, its cheeks glowing faintly. Eevee, fluffy and alert, bounced excitedly beside him.
Arcanine, majestic and powerful, panted softly, its fiery mane catching the light. Scizor, gleaming like polished steel, stood poised and ready, its pincers clicking softly. Gengar, a mischievous grin plastered on its face, floated expectantly nearby, while Dragonair, elegant and serpentine, coiled gracefully at Azure's feet.
They had earned their final badge, the Earth Badge, from Giovanni, but the true test lay ahead: the Indigo Plateau. This wasn't just another battle for them, as this time they were going into the big leagues.
This was the culmination of months of relentless training, unwavering dedication, and the forging of an unbreakable bond with his Pokémon. He needed to be prepared. The top trainers of Kanto weren't just skilled; they were strategic, innovative, and possessed Pokémon that were honed to perfection.
Azure's plan was audacious: intensive, focused training within the safe confines of Viridian Forest, pushing his Pokémon beyond their limits. Using his meta knowledge, he had his Pokémon battle against the savage army of modified Pokémon that Giovanni bred within the Viridian Forest as personal EXP for his team.
Having brought along his Pokémon from boxes, he wanted to ensure everyone grew as much as they could, or learn some tips. He'd brought along two invaluable allies: Porygon, its digital mind capable of precise calculations, and Abra, with its telekinetic abilities, a key component to his training regimen using the move Gravity.
Not only that, with Chansey and Lapras were the designated healers of the team. They helped heal the team of their tiredness.
Their first task was physical conditioning. Under Porygon's guidance, Abra and Chansey manipulated gravity, creating localized zones of increased weight that forced Azure's Pokémon to exert themselves further than usual.
Arcanine, for example, had to sprint while carrying significantly enhanced weights, building explosive strength and endurance. Eevee, normally agile and quick, now had to navigate complex obstacle courses with increased gravity—a challenge that honed its precise balance and coordination.
The next phase involved honing their combat skills. Azure spent hours sparring with his Pokémon, using carefully choreographed drills to improve their reflexes, speed, and tactical awareness.
Scizor's precision strikes were refined, its already formidable defenses further strengthened through repeated sparring with Arcanine. Gengar, deceptively powerful, focused on perfecting its evasive maneuvers and mastering the nuances of its spectral attacks.
Lapras and Seadra gave some tips to the new Pokémon and were kept on guard for any stray Wild Pokémon that came too close to them. Attacks from Wild Pokémon varied time to time as they chose to fight or flee from them.
Pikachu, his constant companion, underwent intensive training focused on speed and power. Azure worked to enhance his bond with Pikachu, emphasizing their intuitive understanding of each other.
The electric mouse responded with fierce loyalty, its attacks becoming faster and more devastating with each passing day. But Azure's most ambitious goal was the evolution of Dragonair.
He knew it was a delicate process, requiring not just physical strength but a profound emotional connection. He spent hours talking to Dragonair, sharing his dreams, his fears, his hopes for the future.
He'd even taught Dragonair a new move – Breaking Swipe – an attack that mirrored the dragon's graceful yet powerful movements, mimicking a wild dragon's power. Each day yielded incremental progress.
Arcanine learned Wild Charge, a powerful electric assault that amplified its already impressive strength, but at the cost of recoil damage, learning this from Pikachu's Volt Tackle move. Scizor went to mastering its moves into Agile or Strong Style, wanting to improve its techniques so that it could strike before most opponents could react to its power.
Gengar mastered Shadow Punch, adding a more focused, devastating attack to its already impressive arsenal. Not only that, Gengar asked for some advice from Azure to learn the elemental punches, wanting to increase its move pool, and wanting to become even stronger after its crushing defeat from Giovanni's Rhyperior.
Even Eevee, despite its smaller stature, attempted to master its Partner Moves, further enhancing its elusive speed, agility, power, and versatility. Eevee didn't want to fall behind with the group as it began to refine her moves.
The training wasn't without its setbacks. There were times when exhaustion threatened to overwhelm them.
Azure pushed his Pokémon to their limits, but he always ensured they had proper rest and recovery. He carefully monitored their health, providing them with the necessary nutrients and care.
He knew that pushing them too hard would be counterproductive, potentially injuring them or creating resentment. He had to find a balance between pushing them and protecting them.
Fortunately, he had a Lapras and Chansey that knew healing moves to help ease the relaxing process, healing them but allowing rest. Not only that, but Azure also participated in training with his team, trying to increase his physical strength, recalling how Bruno or Bea could match with their Pokémon, being close to superhuman.
Of course, he was quickly tired, panting, drenched in sweat. Luckily, he had a Lapras and Chansey that knew Life Dew to recover.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows through the trees, Azure sat by a shimmering stream, Dragonair coiled beside him.
The air was filled with the chirping of crickets and the rustling of leaves. Azure felt a surge of anticipation. He'd noticed a subtle shift in Dragonair's aura – a growing intensity, a sense of readiness.
He spoke to Dragonair in a low, soothing tone, recounting their journey together, the battles they'd fought, and the bonds they'd forged. As he spoke, Dragonair pulsed with a vibrant energy.
Its scales shimmered with an ethereal light, and a powerful aura enveloped Azure. Then it happened. A blinding flash illuminated the forest as Dragonair underwent its evolution.
*Rmbl*
The ground trembled slightly, and a magnificent Dragonite, majestic and powerful, stood where Dragonair once lay. It let out a triumphant roar that echoed through the forest, signifying its readiness for the challenges that lay ahead, "Rawwwwor!!!"
The loud cry alerted his Pokémon that they had come out to see Dragonite. But when they realized it was Dragonair evolving into Dragonite, they settled down as Dragonite viewed her new form with awe as it cried out, "Dra!!! DRAGONITE!!! (I HAVE ARMS AND HANDS!! WHAT DO I DO WITH THEM!!)"
Azure's Pokémon chuckled as Pikachu sighed, shaking its head, seeing the flailing Dragonite struggling to have arms. As for Azure himself, he felt a surge of pride and relief. He had done it. He had prepared his team, even pushing his Dragonair, to evolve.
The final piece of his plan was complete. He checked his Arc Phone to read Dragonite's bio as she was greeted with the cheers of her fellow Pokémon, congratulating her and Gengar showing her how to use arms and hands.
[Dragonite, the Dragon Pokémon. Dragonite is known to sleep soundly while displaying its belly. This rare sight is said to be an exhausted Dragonite resting after flying over the vast seas. Despite its bulky build, Dragonite can fly faster than the speed of sound, being able to circle the globe in sixteen hours.
A kind-hearted Pokémon with human-like intelligence, Dragonite shows signs of altruism: it is said to save humans from drowning and lead lost or foundering ships to safety. However, it will go on an uncontrollable, destructive rampage if its environment is threatened.
Dragonite will usually calm down and be satisfied after smashing down anything that has angered it to smithereens. It is known to engage in fierce battles with Kingdra whenever they meet. Dragonite has been referred to as the "sea guardian" and the "Sea Incarnate"; as such, there are many ships with figureheads decorated with Dragonite's look.
Dragonite's power can affect the weather. In Fiore, Dragonite is used by Pokémon Rangers to travel to different areas in the region; this flying service is called the Dragonite Bus. Dragonite is very rare in the wild, typically living near the sea. Some claim that there is an island somewhere in the ocean that only Dragonite inhabit.]
Azure smirked, seeing his Pokémon hanging around happily as he raised his hand, taking it into a fist, lightly slamming on Dragonite's stomach as he said happily, "I told ya I'll get you to be a mighty Dragonite. Heh."
Dragonite paused, recalling that memory where they first met. When it was just a tiny Dratini, it never thought it could grow this much, nor faced powerful enemies on the next, along with tasty food.
But recalling that memory of him promising the Dragon Pokémon to reach her final evolution, Dragonite smiled happily at Azure for keeping his word. And in a way, had fun along the way despite the danger as Dragonite bobbed its head with a happy grin, "Draoo… Dragonite!"
Raising its fist into the air, Dragonite was determined to give its all in the coming challenges ahead. Leaning its big claw-shaped fist, Azure raised his, doing a fist pump, understanding how far they're willing to reach.
The Indigo Plateau awaited, and he was ready. He stood up, a broad smile spreading across his face, and looked at his Pokémon team, their eyes shining with determination and loyalty.
They were ready. Together, they would conquer the Pokémon League. The biggest challenge of Azure's Trainer Career was now within reach.
He felt confident, his Pokémon were stronger, more seasoned, and ready to face whatever obstacles lay on their path to victory. The journey to the Indigo Plateau would be challenging, but Azure and his team were ready to face it head-on.
/////
[Kanto Region, Next Day, Indigo Plateau]
*Thud*
Azure Sky, a name whispered with a mix of awe and anticipation in the Kanto region, stood before the imposing gates of Indigo Plateau. The electric buzz of excitement, palpable even from this distance, sent a shiver down his spine.
It wasn't fear, but a potent cocktail of exhilaration and respect for the challenge that lay ahead. He had arrived, flying over Victory Road, reaching the top.
Beside him, Pikachu, his loyal partner since the very beginning, crackled with static energy, its red cheek pouches sparking in anticipation. Eevee, nestled comfortably on Azure's hoodie, nuzzled his neck, its soft fur providing a comforting presence.
Behind them stood the rest of his team: Arcanine, majestic and regal; Scizor, its metallic body gleaming in the sunlight; Gengar, its mischievous grin hinting at the power it held; and finally, Dragonite, the newest and perhaps most powerful addition, its gentle eyes radiating a quiet strength.
The journey had been long, arduous, and filled with countless trials. From the humble beginnings in Pallet Town, armed with nothing but a trainer's license and Pikachu's unwavering loyalty, Azure had traversed treacherous mountains, navigated dense forests, and battled formidable opponents.
He had learned the importance of strategy, the value of perseverance, and most importantly, the unbreakable bond between a trainer and their Pokémon. He remembered the day he met each of his Pokémon as he blinked memories passing by.
Eevee, experimented on by Team Rocket in a bustling Celadon City, its fur matted and its eyes wide with fear. He'd nursed it back to health, and the grateful Pokémon had become a steadfast companion, fixing her evolution issues.
Arcanine, a Growlithe, then, had been a captive meant to be sent to Viridian Forest along with the other savage Pokémon that Team Rocket meant to create an unstoppable army. But now became a fierce and loyal Pokémon to Azure, saving him from his darkest time, ultimately drawn to Azure's kind heart.
Scizor, originally a Scyther, had challenged him to a duel, testing his strength and resolve before finally agreeing to join his team after being defeated. And Gengar, a shy but powerful Gastly in the Pokémon Tower, had chosen him, sensing a kindred spirit who understood its mischievous nature, along with gaining what it deeply wanted: friends.
Most recently, he recalled the rigorous training in the Hidden Grotto of Viridian Forest. The fierce little dragon Dratini, into Dragonair, graceful and serene, required intense training to evolve into its final form, Dragonite. The evolution was a spectacle of power, the air crackling with energy as the serpentine Dragonair transformed into the jovial, orange dragon.
With her evolution complete, Azure's team was ready for the Indigo League. Given the few days of training, his team was ready to face the Indigo League Tournament as Azure checked his Arc Phone for his team's progression.
|Name: Partner Pikachu (Mouse Pokémon)
|Type: Electric
|Level: 60
|Gender: Male
|Held Item: [Light Ball]
|Ability: Lightning Rod (Hidden Ability)
|Nature: Hasty
|Moves: Thunder Shock [A][S], Quick Attack [A][S], Double Team, Agility, Thunder Wave, Electro Ball [A][S], Iron Tail [A][S], Feint [A], Spark [S][A], Zippy Zap [A][S], Floaty Float [A][S], Splishy Splash [A][S], Pika Papow [A], Discharge [A][S], Thunderbolt [A][S], Light Screen, Thunder [S], Protect, Swift [A], Play Rough, Electroweb[A], Thunder Punch [S], Magnet Rise, Trailblaze [A], Icicle Crash, Meteor Mash, Flying Press, Electric Terrain, Signal Beam, Mega Punch (TM), Mega Kick (TM), Hidden Power (TM), Brick Break (TM), Surf (HM), Fly (HM), Volt Tackle [A][S](EM), Wish (EM) (0 Moves to learn)
|Name: Dragonite (Dragon Pokémon)
|Type: Dragon/Flying
|Level: 58
|Gender: Female
|Held Item: [Dragon Fang]
|Ability: Multiscale (Hidden Ability)
|Nature: Adamant
|Moves: Wrap, Leer, Twister [A][S], Dragon Tail [A][S], Thunder Wave, Dragon Rage, Iron Tail [A][S], Protect, Agility, Slam, Dragon Pulse [A][S], Dragon Breath [A][S], Aqua Tail [A][S], Dragon Rush [A][S], Ice Beam [A], Thunderbolt [A], Safeguard, Breaking Swipes [S], Rain Dance, Wing Attack, Outrage, Ice Punch, Thunder Punch, Fire Punch, Fire Blast, Sunny Day, Thunder, Dragon Claw [A], Earthquake (TM), Bubblebeam [A][S] (TM), Hyper Beam [A] (TM), Surf [S] (HM), Fly (HM), Hurricane (IM), Extreme Speed [A][S] (IM), Dragon Dance (EM) (2 Moves to Learn)
|Name: Arcanine (Legendary Pokémon)
|Type: Fire
|Level: 58
|Held Item: [Charcoal]
|Gender: Male
|Ability: Flash Fire
|Nature: Jolly
|Moves: Ember [A][S], Leer, Howl, Bite [S], Flame Wheel [A][S], Helping Hand, Agility, Iron Tail [A][S], Fire Fang [A][S], Endure, Retaliate, Crunch [S], Flamethrower [A][S], Close Combat [A][S], Flare Blitz [A][S], Take Down, Play Rough [A][S], Reversal, Roar, Mimic, Hyper Beam, Wild Charge, Sunny Day, Solar Beam, Outrage, Giga Impact (TM), Protect (TM), Overheat [A][S] (TM), Fire Blast [A][S] (TM), Extreme Speed [A][S] (IM), Raging Fury [A][S] (IM), Morning Sun (EM) (1 Moves left to learn)
|Name: Scizor (Pincer Pokémon)
|Type: Bug/Steel
|Level: 56
|Held Item: [Metal Coat]
|Gender: Male
|Ability: Technician
|Nature: Adamant
|Moves: Quick Attack [A][S], Leer, Fury Cutter [A][S], Focus Energy, False Swipe, Double Team, Double Hit [A], Slash [A][S], Agility, Wing Attack [A], Metal Claw [A][S], Iron Defense, Steel Wing [A][S], Iron Head [A][S], X-Scissor [A][S], Swords Dance, Protect, Air Slash [A], Mimic, Hyper Beam, Giga Impact, Swift, Close Combat [A][S], Bullet Punch [A][S] (IM), Roost (EM) (4 Moves to learn)
|Name: Partner Eevee (Evolution Pokémon)
|Type: Normal (Fire/Water/Electric/Grass/Ice/Fairy/Psychic/Dark)
|Level: 55
|Held Item: [Eviolite]
|Gender: Female
|Ability: Adaptability
|Nature: Mild
|Moves: Covet [A][S], Take Down [A][S], Tail Whip, Sand Attack, Quick Attack [A][S], Baby-Doll Eyes, Swift [A][S], Bite[A][S], Mimic, Copycat, Baton Pass, Veevee Volley [A][S], Bouncy Bubble [A][S], Buzzy Buzz [A][S], Sizzly Slide [A][S], Glitzy Glow [A][S], Sappy Seed [A][S], Freezy Frost [A][S], Sparkly Swirl [A][S], Protect, Charm, Double-Edge, Wish, Hidden Power [A][S], Shadow Ball [A][S], Iron Tail [A][S], Curse, Last Resort, Snarl [A][S] (IM),Confusion [A][S] (IM),Disarming Voice [A][S] (IM),Icy Wind [A][S] (IM),Razor Leaf [A][S] (IM),Ember [A][S] (IM), Thunder Shock [A][S] (IM), Water Gun [A][S] (IM), Yawn (EM) (2 Moves to learn)
|Name: Gengar (S) (Shadow Pokémon)
|Type: Ghost/Poison
|Level: 54
|Gender: Female
|Held Item: [Black Sludge]
|Ability: Levitate
|Nature: Gentle
|Moves: Lick [A][S], Hypnosis, Spite, Confuse Ray, Mean Look, Payback, Curse, Protect, Night Shade [A][S], Hex [A][S], Sucker Punch [A], Will-o-Wisp, Icy Wind [A][S], Dark Pulse [A][S], Ice Punch [A], Fire Punch [A], Thunder Punch [A], Mega Punch [A], Mega Kick [A], Icy Wind [A][S], Hidden Power [A][S], Hyper Beam, Taunt, Destiny Bond, Skill Swap (TM), Giga Drain [A][S] (TM), Toxic (TM), Shadow Ball [A][S] (TM), Psychic [A][S] (TM), Substitute (TM), Thunderbolt [A][S], (TM), Shadow Punch [A][S] (IM), Perish Song (EM) (3 Moves to learn)
Putting down his Arc Phone, Azure grinned as he looked at the Indigo Stadium, as he said proudly, pointing at the stadium ahead, "After much effort, we've finally arrived at the Pokémon League, the real battle. The place where the strongest reside. Hehe… We're finally here! It's time to challenge the Indigo League, the ultimate stage!"
His Pokémon all cried out happily, agreeing. They soon returned to their Poke Balls except for Eevee in his hoodie and Pikachu over his shoulder as he walks his first steps to be the strongest trainer in the world, the Pokémon Master.