Ch 29: Rookie Tournament Quarterfinal

After his match concluded, with the crowd still buzzing from the excitement, Mike made his way to the Pokécenter. His Sylveon had performed exceptionally well but was a little tired from the intense battle against Darius. It was important to get her fully recovered in time for tomorrow's quarterfinals.

The next round promised to be more challenging, as the remaining trainers had shown great strength, and Mike knew he'd be facing even more powerful Pokémon. Still, he was excited.

The competition had a different feel from his usual battles with more experienced trainers.

There was something refreshing about competing against his peers, even if most of them didn't have the same level of experience or powerful Pokémon as he did.

Fighting in rookie tournaments like this was a way for him to enjoy the thrill of battle without the any pressures.

As Mike walked, he reflected on the upcoming matches. Tomorrow was the quarterfinals, followed by the semifinals the day after.

The winners of those matches would compete in the finals, while those who lost in the semifinals would battle for third place on the last day of the tournament.

The competition would only get tougher from here, with trainers like Martina, Lopez, and the favorites—Henry, Luke, and Sue—still in the running.

Mike knew he had the advantage in terms of Pokémon strength, but he wouldn't let his guard down. Any mistake could cost him the tournament.

When Mike arrived at the Pokécenter, he handed Sylveon's Pokéball to Nurse Joy with a smile.

Nurse Joy nodded and took the Pokéball for recovery. Mike sat down in the waiting area, already thinking about strategies for the next battle.

His team was strong, and with Sylveon about to be in the Epic Rank. If he wants Sylveon would be able to Rank up. But he decided against it, as there will not be any pressure if Sylveon Rank up.

After Nurse Joy returned Sylveon's Pokéball, Mike released his Pokémon, letting her stretch out and walk beside him. "You did great today," he said, giving her an affectionate pat. Sylveon nuzzled him, looking content despite her earlier exhaustion.

As they headed toward the dinner venue, Mike unexpectedly ran into Martina and Lopez, who were walking together. They seemed to always be together during the tournament. Seeing Mike, they smiled and joined him.

"You were amazing out there, Mike," Martina said, impressed by his performance. " Sylveon of yours is a real powerhouse in this tournament."

"Yeah, no kidding," Lopez added, shaking his head. "I saw the crowd's reaction when she comes into the field. Everyone's talking about you. There is a high chances of you winning this whole thing."

They began to chat about the battles they had seen that day, exchanging bits of information about their future opponents. The conversation was lively, though Lopez soon started to complain about his bad luck.

"I'm up against Henry tomorrow," Lopez grumbled. "Of all the people, it had to be one of the favorites."

"Henry, huh?" Mike raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah. He's got a Peak Rare Rank Pokémon like me, but rumor has it he might have two Peak Rare Pokémon," Lopez said with a sigh. "I haven't seen his full team yet, but if it's true, tomorrow's going to be rough."

"Don't worry too much," Mike said, patting Lopez on the shoulder. "You've made it this far, and anything can happen in a battle."

They all shared a laugh, and as they continued walking, the weight of tomorrow's matches settled in their minds. The competition was heating up, and they all knew the road to the finals was going to be a tough one.

After finishing dinner, Mike bid farewell to both Martina and Lopez, feeling the weight of tomorrow's battles hanging over them. He also took his Pokemon for there food also.

As he made his way back to the Pokécenter for the night, he decided to call his parents to update them on his victory earlier in the day.

His mom, Mia, was thrilled and praised him for his performance. "You were so incredible, Mike! I'm so proud of you," she said warmly. Her voice carried pride and excitement. Mike was also smile after hearing her praise.

His dad, Robert, congratulated him as well but shifted the conversation to something new. "I've got some news of my own," Robert said with a hint of excitement. "I've officially gotten my new Gym Rank license from the League headquarters."

Mike's eyes widened a bit. " A Gym Rank? You already got it. Then are you going for a Gym Leader position?"

"Exactly," Robert confirmed. "I'll be attending this year's Gym Leaders competition. It's a tournament where new Gym Rank trainers from all the League regions compete for a chance to earn the permission to establish a Gym."

Mike listened closely as his dad explained. The competition was fierce, with trainers from all across the different regions, and only the top 10 would be granted the opportunity to set up their own Gym with the League's support.

His dad's dream was to build a Gym in Bright Town, a small town that had always lacked a proper training hub for new Pokémon trainers.

Although his grandparents now have higher status, but there were not many proper trainers hub there. So, it was difficult to see trainers visiting the town. But with a Gym established it will be visit by many trainers.

"It's not an easy path though," Robert added. "The League screens the new Gym Leaders thoroughly. If they're found lacking in their responsibilities, they can be stripped of their position. But I'm ready. I've been training hard recently, and with the Pokémons I have, I'm confident I can make it."

Mike felt a sense of pride in his dad voice when taking about his Pokemons. His dad had always wanted to become a strong trainer, and the idea of him becoming a Gym Leader seemed more than achievable.

But he also knew it wasn't guaranteed. There were still three months left until the competition, and a lot could change in that time.

"I'm sure you'll make it, Dad," Mike said sincerely. "You've always been one of the best trainers I know."

"Thanks, son. It won't be easy, but with the right training, I'm aiming for the top," Robert said. "And who knows? Maybe once I get the Gym, you'll come challenge me on your journey for getting to the Pokemon league."

Mike laughed at the thought. " I will if you able to become one. Bright Town needs a Gym, and you'd be perfect for it."

After finishing the call with his parents, Mike returned to his room, his mind swirling with thoughts of his dad's upcoming challenge.

He knew Robert had a good chance, but there was always a possibility of missing out. However, with three months to prepare, his dad's Pokémon would likely gain a lot of strength from their rigorous training.

When the time comes Mike will release some of the limits on his Pokemon. So, he will be able to become an official Gym leader.

As Mike settled down for the night, he reflected on his own journey. Tomorrow's battle would mark another significant chapter in his adventure, and he felt a mix of excitement bubbling within him.

The next day, after a quick breakfast with his five Pokémon—Sylveon, Nidorino, Poliwhirl, Lucario and Absol.

Sylveon seemed particularly eager, her ribbons sparkling in the morning light as if she could sense the importance of the day ahead.

After ensuring his Pokémon were in top shape, Mike started heading toward the venue. As he walked, he overheard snippets of conversation from fellow trainers and spectators discussing the matches.

"Did you see that last battle? Henry wiped the floor with his opponent!" one trainer exclaimed.

"Yeah, but I think Mike's got a real shot. Did you see his Sylveon? It was practically unstoppable. I think he will be the Champion in this tournament!" another responded.

"Luke and Sue, both advanced too. This tournament is getting intense!" someone chimed in, excitement evident in their voice.

Mike after hearing all the talk also start to get toward his posting. He begins to have some snacks as he heard all the talk that was going on.

Trainers were warming up, spectators were filling the stands, and the announcer's voice echoed through the air, announcing matchups and hype for the day's battles.

Once inside, Mike took a deep breath, his resolve strengthening. He was ready for the challenge that awaited him today. With Sylveon by his side, he began to watch all the battles as they unfolded.

As the first match commenced, excitement rippled through the crowd. "We will do our best! Won't we, Sylveon?" he said with a smile, looking down at his Pokémon, who nodded back at him, her eyes filled with determination.

Mike's match was scheduled after the first two battles. He would be going against a trainer named Kai, who hailed from Cinnabar Island. Kai was known for his fiery passion and mastery of Fire-type Pokémon.

Mike had heard whispers of his impressive battle record and the strategies he employed to againt his opponent's from previous battles.

As Mike observed the ongoing matches, he noted the fierce intensity of the battles. Trainers were showcasing their skills, and powerful Pokémon were unleashing spectacular moves. Each clash resonated with the crowd, fueling their enthusiasm.

Finally, the announcer's voice boomed over the loudspeakers, signaling that Mike's match was about to begin. "Next up, we have Mike from Bright Town, facing off against Kai from Cinnabar Island! Both trainers are eager to showcase their skills, so let's see what they've got!"

Mike walk forward to take his place on the battlefield. He noticed Kai already standing on the opposite side, a confident grin plastered on his face. In his hand, he held a Pokéball, ready to summon his first Pokémon.

"I hope you're ready, Mike," Kai called out, his voice laced with excitement. "I've got a few tricks up my sleeve!"

"Bring out what you have got, Kai! I will not back down," Mike replied with his usual calmed expression.

As the referee raised his hand, Mike's focus sharpened. The battle was about to begin.

The anticipation in the air was palpable as the match about to be begin.

"Trainers, on my mark send out your first Pokémon!" the referee shouted, lowering his hand.

"Three..

"Two ...

"One .... Go."

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