Chapter 57: The Winner

"Onix——!" Brock exclaimed in disbelief, watching as Pidgeotto managed to repel the enormous rock snake, sending it tumbling back three or four meters.

The sight was almost surreal; a typical battle had transformed into an extraordinary spectacle before their eyes.

The impact from Pidgeotto's attack clearly inflicted significant damage, and Brock was at a loss to comprehend how such a feat had occurred.

Pidgeotto's strength had remained at normal levels, yet its attack had suddenly surged to unbelievable heights.

Was this truly a breakthrough to Bronze-level capabilities that had awakened within Ash's Pokémon?

The audience was equally shocked by the sudden turn of events.

Gasps of amazement filled the air, spectators jumping to their feet, some gripping their heads in astonishment, while others stared wide-eyed, their disbelief palpable.

It was a testament to the extraordinary nature of the battle they were witnessing.

Misty's expression shifted from shock to sheer joy. "If Pidgeotto can deliver such powerful hits, there's a real chance Ash can win this!" she exclaimed, her voice bursting with excitement as hope blossomed in her heart.

"Sure enough… it can be done!" Ash cried out, a proud smile lighting up his face as he looked at Pidgeotto, who was panting heavily but still standing tall and resolute.

The thrill of the moment transformed the atmosphere; Ash felt invigorated, ready to push for victory.

Despite the power of its last attack taking a toll, Pidgeotto was not prepared to give in. The exhilaration of the moment prompted both trainer and Pokémon to revel in their newfound momentum.

Pidgeotto processed its recent actions, reflecting on how it had seamlessly combined 'Quick Attack' and 'Wing Attack' under Ash's guidance.

The newfound synergy between the two moves had surprised even Pidgeotto itself, showcasing the incredible bond they shared.

Meanwhile, Onix shook off the daze caused by Pidgeotto's powerful blow, bucking its head as Brock took a moment to refocus his thoughts.

"Don't get careless", Brock reminded himself, shaking his head. There was undoubtedly a method to Pidgeotto's newfound strength; if he could identify it quickly, he still had a chance to turn the tide back in his favor.

"Onix, use Rock Slide!" Brock commanded, intent on regrouping his Pokémon.

But as he issued the order, a flicker of doubt crept into his mind—had he underestimated the full potential of Ash and Pidgeotto? They appeared unstoppable, and the momentum of the battle was beginning to shift.

Before he could dwell on his uncertainty, Onix unleashed its 'Rock Slide,' summoning massive rocks that shattered into smaller boulders, hurtling down toward Pidgeotto.

"The opportunity is here!" Ash thought quickly, recognizing Brock's momentary lapse in focus. He sprang into action, determined to capitalize on it.

"Pidgeotto, use 'Quick Attack' and 'Wing Attack' at the same time!"

"Pi————!" Pidgeotto responded with newfound determination, channeling energy into both moves simultaneously.

The white, translucent energy of 'Quick Attack' mingled with the brilliant blue hue of 'Wing Attack,' creating a dazzling display as it sped past the falling rocks, racing toward Onix with unmatched speed.

"Bang!" The collision reverberated through the arena, shaking the ground beneath their feet. Once again, Onix staggered backward, lifted slightly off the ground by the sheer force of the blow. 

Brock watched in disbelief, struggling to comprehend the situation. What was happening? Pidgeotto was utilizing two different energies at once?

It was an unprecedented display of power, and he couldn't analyze it; there was no time to waste as Ash quickly directed Pidgeotto to press the advantage.

"Onix, use 'Smack Down!'" Brock yelled, desperation creeping into his voice. His Pokémon couldn't afford to falter now. 

But as Onix swung its tail down, Pidgeotto nimbly dodged to the side, slipping past the attack with remarkable ease. 

"Now, Pidgeotto! Again!" Ash shouted, his voice filled with urgency. With a quick turn, Pidgeotto aimed for Onix once more, launching another combination of a double-powered 'Quick Attack' and 'Wing Attack.'

"Bang!" Pidgeotto's energy-covered wings struck Onix repeatedly, hammering into the same vulnerable spot on its head.

Each blow sent reverberations through the massive rock snake, and Ash could see the effects taking their toll.

After a third decisive hit, Onix was visibly weary, swaying on its feet as exhaustion began to take hold.

Ash felt a slight twinge of disappointment. Despite targeting Onix's weak point, it hadn't been enough to secure a critical hit. Still, he pressed on, refusing to let up.

"But this is enough! Just a little more, Pidgeotto! We can do this!" he urged, his conviction unwavering.

"Bang…" After a few more anxious moments spent dodging the barrage of Onix's attacks, the mighty rock snake finally succumbed.

It collapsed onto the battlefield, sending dust and debris flying into the air, filling the arena in a cloud of uncertainty.

The ground trembled slightly under its immense weight as silence fell over the crowd, who were all holding their breath in anticipation.

"Onix is unable to battle! Pidgeotto wins!" The referee's announcement shattered the stillness, breaking the tension that had enveloped the arena.

After a brief pause for the announcement to settle, the spectators erupted into ecstatic cheers, their excitement palpable as they celebrated the unexpected twist of the match.

"Since the gym has lost two Pokémon, the winner of this gym challenge is player Ash!"

The referee's words rang out with authority, causing the crowd to explode with excitement. They had witnessed a thrilling contest filled with perseverance, strategy, and heart.

"I lost…" Brock exhaled slowly, his breath carrying a sense of calm that washed over him. Although he had been defeated, he felt surprisingly content.

It was a valuable battle, one fought with all his heart, reminiscent of when he was a child, leading Onix in a similar duel for the first time.

"Great job, Pidgeotto!" Ash grinned widely, rushing over to embrace his hard-fought companion. Pidgeotto, though exhausted, returned Ash's affection with a triumphant cry, its tired eyes sparkling with pride.

Pikachu climbed onto Ash's shoulder, joining in the celebration and sharing in the joy of victory. "Pika!" it exclaimed, its cheerful disposition matching the festive atmosphere.

"Pi——!" Pidgeotto's tired yet happy expression reflected the immense growth it had experienced throughout the battle, proving that even in hardship, it could rise to the occasion.

As Ash celebrated with his friends, Misty couldn't help but feel a wave of inspiration surge within her.

This was the Ash she had come to admire—the undeterred trainer who pushed not just himself, but also his Pokémon beyond their limits.

She stood back for a moment, her eyes glistening with a mix of pride and admiration, absorbing the moment.

Watching Ash connect so deeply with his Pokémon filled her with joy as she realized how far they had come.

In this moment of victory, Ash understood that together with his Pokémon, they could overcome any challenge that lay ahead.

They had not just won a badge; they had woven their bond tighter in the heat of battle. As he celebrated with his friends and fellow trainers, he knew that their journey was just beginning—an endless road of adventures, challenges, and unforgettable memories was waiting for them .

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Sayo nara~~