Chapter 26 : Vermillion city [4th gym]

--------Vermillion city-----

Skyscrapers reached towards the sky, and the constant hum of city life filled the air.

I decided to take a break from my recent adventures and spend a couple of days exploring the gadget-filled city.

One of the first things on my agenda was a visit to the cinema. The movies in Kanto were still in their nascent stages, but it was interesting to see the budding film industry. The genres were limited, but the few films available were entertaining.

It was a different experience from what I was used to back in our world. Because the special effects are incredible in this world. The point is every movie is centred around Pokemon and their battles, some rare romance or mystery movies also exist.

All in all, the movie industries are being explored slowly. The famous movies this year were –

Electric Odyssey

Mirage Chronicles

Pokémon Prism: Shadows Unveiled

Circuit of Legends

Pidgey Adventures

Elemental Echoes

As I continued exploring the city, I couldn't resist checking out the various shops. My focus was on acquiring parts that could enhance the Electirizer.

The city's advanced technology and the vast amount of Pokémon data I recently got could undoubtedly take my machine to higher versions.

The information from Mirage Mansion has data on 123 different Pokémon. While I felt happy, a moment of reflection made me realize the potential ethical dilemma. How many Pokémon had contributed to this data pool, and at what cost?

It was a sombre me that went to sleep.

============================================

AFTER A FEW DAYS, VERMILLION CITY

The sun hung high in the sky as I strolled through the streets of Vermilion City, making my way to the renowned Vermilion Gym. The past few days had been a mix of relaxation and contemplation, but today was different.

Today, I had a specific goal in mind. Surge's advice in Electirizer, the step towards that is the Vermillion badge. Strength speaks a lot for the military man.

I approached the gym entrance and noticed a group of trainers gathered outside, eagerly waiting for their chance to challenge Lt. Surge. The gym had an unmistakable military vibe to it, reflecting the persona of its leader. I decided to wait patiently, observing the various Pokémon types the trainers were using and mentally strategizing for my upcoming battle.

After what felt like an eternity, the doors of the gym swung open, and there he was – Lt. Surge, the Lightning dude. His stern expression and military attire made it clear that he meant business. As he surveyed the trainers, his eyes briefly met mine, and I could sense a subtle challenge in his gaze.

Surge smirked, a subtle expression that conveyed both confidence and anticipation. "I've been waiting to battle you since I saw your battle with Flint," he remarked, his voice carrying the weight of army training and authority.

Heat crept into my neck, a tinge of embarrassment or awkwardness maybe. I cleared my throat before responding, "Thank you, sir."

Soon, we stood at the opposite sides of the battlefield, anticipation filling the air. Lt. Surge released a Pikachu, and then he announced the rules, "This is going to be a 2vs2 battle between Archer from Bharatsa and Lt. Surge of Vermillion Gym."

I furrowed my brows, considering the traditional rules that govern gym battles. Gym leaders had the right to decide the within rules until a trainer acquired four gym badges.

 After that, the restrictions were eased until a trainer amassed eight gym badges. Beyond that point, the rules were essentially lifted, allowing gym leaders to issue challenges according to their preferences.

It explained why, in the Anime it felt like Ash repeating the same journey across the Pokémon League conferences, Pikachu starting weak and growing suddenly at the end. Rather it was the opponents that scaled up. It was a system designed to ensure fairness and adaptability for trainers from different regions.

Then again, the foreign trainers wishing to participate in conferences have their rules that they have to follow throughout the circuit, but it is not the time to discuss them.

"Charmander! Let's show them your strength."

ARCHER VS SURGE

The sun hung high in the sky as the battlefield started before us, the Vermilion City's gym crows were buzzing with anticipation when Lt. Surge released a Pikachu.

As the referee prepared to announce the start of the battle, the tension in the air was surging towards me.

"Let the battle begin!" the referee called out to announce the match.

Pikachu darted forward, a streak of yellow lightning, while Charmander stood ready, flames flickering on its tail. Surge wasted no time, "Pikachu, Quick Attack!"

Pikachu blurred with speed, aiming to close the distance rapidly. I responded swiftly, "Dodge and use Ember!"

Charmander deftly evaded Pikachu's Quick Attack, and as the Electric-type Pokémon closed in, it unleashed a flurry of embers. The small flames danced toward Pikachu, who skilfully evaded most of them, but a few managed to singe its fur.

Surge smirked again, clearly enjoying the challenge. "Pikachu, counter with Thunderbolt!"

Pikachu crackled with electricity, launching a powerful Thunderbolt toward Charmander. My quick-thinking Pokémon, however, executed a Double Team, creating illusory duplicates that confused Pikachu for a moment.

"Counter with Metal Claw!" I commanded.

Charmander, seizing the opportunity, lunged forward with gleaming claws extended, aiming to strike Pikachu with a Metal Claw attack. Pikachu, slightly confused by the illusions, took the hit, sending it staggering a few meters.

Surge's expression remained composed. "Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!"

Pikachu charged up with electric energy and started towards my Pokemon. As it picked up speed, it felt like it was transforming into a bolt of lightning, which was barrelling toward Charmander.

"Charmander, Flamethrower."

WHOOSH

I watched as the flames were dodged easily by the running mouse, so, I shouted for Charmander, "Continue with the flames by aiming at Pikachu."

CHARRR

Charmander moves its mouth while spewing flames, looking as if he is swinging a Rope of Flame at the Pickachu.

But Pickachu proved to be too fast because just as the flamethrower turned as it kept approaching Charmander in a spiral, it managed to reach him and hit him right in the mouth.

BOOOM

The impact was intense, and Charmander struggled to withstand the force of Volt Tackle, it skidded for meters leaving his feet marks across the battlefield. I could see that Pikachu was not letting up the attack.

"Charmander, hang in there! Now, use Dragon Rage!" I urged.

Charmander, despite continuous attacks from Volt tackle, held on. He took a deep breath and unleashed a powerful Dragon Rage. The swirling energy collided with Volt tackle-covered Pikachu, causing a brilliant explosion on the battlefield.

BOOOM

BOOOM

BOOOM

The explosion looked like a mesh of Violet and Yellow due to the conflicting energies.

The dust settled, revealing Pokémon standing strong, though visibly fatigued. The referee assessed the situation, "Both Pokémon are still in the game!"

"A strong Pikachu," I remarked in an impressed voice, acknowledging the resilience and power of Surge's Electric-type Pokémon. Lt. Surge gave a nod of thanks, a subtle acknowledgement passing between us. We observed each other, and the exhausted Pokémon mirrored our silent exchange, measuring their opponent's move.

The battlefield was charged with anticipation as Pikachu and Charmander exchanged determined looks. As the tension reached its peak, my Charmander roared, a surge of flames rising through its tail.

CHARRRRR

Realizing the symptoms, I looked forward to this significant moment.

The flames on its tail burning brighter and brighter, surrounding it. Among the flames, the bright glow of Evolution emerged.

WHROOOOM

From this light, dark red scales revealed themself. The newly evolved Pokemon had a cream underside from the chest down. His blue eyes and a long snout with a slightly hooked tip. On the back of his head is a single horn-like protrusion, and relatively long arms with three sharp claws. His short legs have plantigrade feet with three claws and cream-coloured soles.

The evolution was fast compared to the time of its training, showcasing the potential of a Royal starter.

According to my training regime, I wanted to extend the time in each phase for a more compact development. So, it was a premature evolution when thinking about my plans.

But, I respected Charmeleon's choice; after all, it only meant a couple more years of training to reach Elite when compared to my original plan.

Pikachu, out of respect for the life-changing moment of its opponent, waited patiently as Charmeleon adjusted to its evolved form. Both Pokémon, however, were visibly exhausted, the toll of the battle evident even on the newly evolved Charmeleon.

I turned to Lt. Surge, and our eyes communicated an unspoken agreement.

This battle needed a conclusion, a final move that would determine the victor. We shouted out in unison,

"Thunder!" 

"Flamethrower!"

The battlefield lit up with the clash of opposing elemental forces. Each working for their win. I could see the new bulging of both sides of attacks from them, attempting the win.

The intensity of the dual attack reached its zenith, creating a dazzling ball of electricity and flames. Well, the ball burst like a balloon, into the sky.

BOOOOM

As the smoke and sparks settled, both Pikachu and Charmeleon lay on the battlefield, unconscious. The referee approached, carefully assessing the condition of the Pokémon.

The announcement echoed through the gym, "The battle ends in a tie! Both Pokémon are unable to continue."

Surge and I exchanged nods, acknowledging the shared respect for the strength displayed by each other's Pokémon. I must say, I seem to be on the same wavelength as this guy.

The spectators erupted in applause, appreciating the thrilling battle that had unfolded. As I recalled Charmeleon to its Poké Ball, I turned back to Surge, a determined glint in my eyes. "It's time to see the strength you've been waiting for," I declared.

With that, I released another Poké Ball, and from it emerged my steadfast partner, Electabuzz. The crowd watched with anticipation as Surge responded by sending out his Pokémon – a Raichu.

The battlefield was reset, and the match continued. The referee signalled for the start of the battle, a customary practice after a tie.

 Raichu and Electabuzz faced each other, ready for the decisive clash.

"Raichu, unleash a Thunderbolt! Let the electricity flow!" Surge commanded, and Raichu responded with a surge of electric energy, sending a powerful Thunderbolt towards Electabuzz.

In response, I directed Electabuzz to counter with its own Thunder Punch. "Electabuzz, show them your strength! Thunder Punch, now!" Electabuzz complied, its muscular frame charged with electric energy as it thrust its first forward, punching Raichu's Thunderbolt.

"Thunder"

"Discharge"

"Electro ball"

"Thunderbolt"

"Volt tackle."

The battle continued with both Pokémon exchanging increasingly potent electric attacks. The air crackled with energy as the gym's battlefield became a dazzling display of sparks and surges of electricity.

However, it became evident that the effectiveness of these moves was diminished due to the shared Electric typing of both combatants.

As Raichu and Electabuzz paused to catch their breath, showing only slight traces of exhaustion, I decided to change the strategy. "It's time to start showcasing the results of your training," I advised Electabuzz.

The Electric-type Pokémon nodded in understanding, sparks flying from its eyes in anticipation.

With a burning fire punch, Electabuzz smashed its fist into its palm, signalling the commencement of a new phase in the battle, but our showy rhythm was obstructed by a burst of laughter.

Surge's laughter resonated through the gym as he recounted a tale from his past. "Say, Archer, do you know when the position opened up for the Vermilion Gym Leader, I had an opponent with the same Electric typing. He even learned moves of other types like you. Want to know how I beat him?"

I shook my head in curiosity, prompting Surge to reveal his secret. "I used more electricity."

"Huh?" I responded, perplexed by the simplicity of the strategy. But even so, I noticed both the Pokemon were smartly using Charge in the break.

"Raichu, a descendant of my partner, time to show the move you inherited from him. Electric Terrain," Surge declared confidently. The gym's battlefield lit up in a dazzling display of electrical energy from the charged Raichu's feet, that soon spread to the entire field.

The conversation was a distraction for creating an electrified terrain that surrounded both Raichu and Electabuzz. A new rise in difficulty as my gym badges increased.

But I couldn't help but voice my confusion, "Both our Pokémon are Electric types, and both will exhibit stronger electric moves. So, there's no difference in the end." Surge smirked, his confidence unwavering, as he said, "Let me show you the reason I became a gym leader."

"Thunder Bolt and Quick attack sequence."

"Thunder, Electabuzz."

Raichu initiated another round of electric attacks, with Electabuzz responding in kind.

CRRACCCKLLEEEEE

BOOOM

Electabuzz came out of the clash, skidding a few feet, but with a few strands of his fur burned.

"HUH!"

The effects of Electric Terrain seemed to favour Raichu, enhancing the power of its moves much more than Electabuzz. I don't know how he did it, but he managed to increase the power a field move gave to his Pokemon. While Electabuzz also gained power it is nowhere near the power Raichu has now.

"Double team + quick attack + Focus Punch"

With a disorienting number of illusions, the mouse pokemon used a quick attack to approach Electabuzz with his tiny fist shining.

"Electabuzz, counter Raichu's Focus Punch!" I commanded, hoping to turn the tide of the battle. Electabuzz swiftly executed the move, using Reflect to send Raichu flying backwards.

 I seized the opportunity to address Surge, "Perhaps your capacity in Electric type is much stronger than mine, but unfortunately, this Raichu has not yet mastered this move."

It was clear to me, that this Raichu wasn't a regular member of Surge's team. So, I replied to him for the previous speech.

"I will win simply because I am a better breeder," I declared with confidence, pointing at Electabuzz who on close inspection is showing a bright glow around him.

The realization shocked him that Electabuzz had been using Rest during our conversation, in the brief respite between the fights.

Electabuzz then roared out and swung his right hand with a Fire punch into the Ground.

BOOM

The move confused our opponents, but it cleared the way to realization as the left hand came up and went down with flames.

BOOM

Again, the right.

BOOM

Left.

BOOOM

"Tch, Raichu, Volt tackle."

But Surge is late.

As the flames grew around Electabuzz, with both of his hands, clasped together and went for an overhead strike onto the cracked ground.

BOOOOOOM

I saw with a smile that the flames extending from the cracks disrupted the delicate balance of Electric terrain. It took years' worth of Breeding to get to this point.

I am proud of my Pokemon breeding which ensured Electabuzz's strength. Pokemon is like the Human species. Not all humans are the same. In the same way, not all Electabuzz are the same. Some will be good at some moves or others.

But, my buddy will have all the abilities and moves of his entire species. Each mastered perfectly, He will be a Champion.

I snorted at the broken field and said, "Now, your signature move is broken into pieces."

I watched as Surge clenched his teeth at the hurt to his pride. I dare him to use Electric Terrain again, my Electabuzz is already gathering energy to end this.

Surge laughed at the comment and said, " So what? Don't forget that Electabuzz is an electric Pokemon. Not a fire type."

Electabuzz gave off sparks in response, I spoke his thoughts out, "Well, we can show that to you. But are you daring enough to do the same?"

 Surge just gave a grin, in sync with my thoughts to end the match in one move. 

"""""CHARGE"""

Both Raichu and Electabuzz roared out as they charged themself with electricity. Electabuzz, concentrated the electricity in his tiny fist, forming a swirling thunder punch, like a drill. He runs towards Raichu.

At the same time, Raichu, gathered the Electricity into Electro Ball, swirling with waves of electricity.

""""""ATTACK"""""

BOOOOM

CRACKLE CRACKLE CRACKLE

BOOOM

The first to appear in my vision as the electricity cleared is my Electabuzz using Rest to recover.

I turned towards the other side and saw that in an instant, another Volt tackle came from the smoke heading towards my buddy.

The match is decided.

Because anticipating the attack, Electabuzz opened its eyes abruptly ending Rest and swiftly Punched out with a glowing punch right into the face of the Mouse Pokemon.

BOOM

The impact kept sending it flying into the roof.

BANG

Electabuzz then roared out, BUZZZZZ, as if to say, come on bitch.

I shouted in excitement, "Fucking yes. That's how we do it baby." as Electabuzz ended the match with a powerful Focus Punch, sealing our victory in the gym battle.

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After the gym battle, I waited for Surge as the atmosphere in the Vermilion City Gym gradually settled.

My mind was still immersed in thoughts about the Electric Terrain used in the battle.

While contemplating its effects, I instructed Rotomdex, "Note the residual diffusion of electric energy from the field."

Lt. Surge, having completed his numerous daily challenges and tasks for the day, finally had some time to spare. I then shifted my focus to the goal of the day.

As I pondered different approaches to convince Surge to assist with the Electirizer project, ranging from sharing the patent to employing some old-fashioned persistence, the gym leader approached me with a military ration bar in hand. "I must say, Archer, you are quite the talented one. I only started looking for news about you, after the gym battle with Flint. And not just me, you've left quite an impression on many people, especially after Mirage Mansion" Surge remarked, offering a nod of acknowledgement.

"Thank you," I replied with a modest smile, recognizing the impact of recent events. "Sir, I would like your help in something."

Seizing the moment, I retrieved both the Electirizer and Electabuzz from their respective Poké Balls. Rotomdex projected the data of both my Pokémon and the innovative evolutionary prototype I had crafted. "This converter changes the frequency of electricity given to it into Electabuzz's frequency, and then the regulator is fixed to change with the rapidly increasing limits in the evolution process," I explained, showcasing the intricate workings of the device.

Surge scratched his head, studying the simulation displayed on Rotomdex. His keen eyes observed the detailed process from Electirizer to Electabuzz's evolution. After a moment of silence, he began to comment on the changes, his words coming in rapid sequences. "The converter is incredible. You essentially made a custom charging point for Electabuzz. I would like to order some for myself because the ones I have are plain wasteful in terms of efficiency," he declared, expressing genuine interest and admiration.

Proudly acknowledging the recognition of my invention, I nodded in agreement. "Now, the regulator, while it's incredible that you managed to get it to adjust with the evolution process," Surge continued, his tone turning thoughtful. He shook his head and delivered a surprising suggestion. "I regret to waste your work, but just get rid of it."

His words caught me off guard, and I looked at him in surprise. Surge elaborated on his reasoning, "While the regulator you made essentially ensures a safe evolution, it has two downsides. First, the regulator passively increases the limit, adjusting to them as evolution goes on. But it's nowhere near as active as the increase a Pokémon endures during the charge. Second, you don't know how long the evolution will go on. Each second makes it valuable."

I contemplated his words, recognizing his reasons behind the advice.

Surge continued to offer valuable insights, "While the frequency is solved by you, I mostly advise you to use the most powerful Kickstarter for Electirizer as you can. The more electricity you can charge in the bolt, the better. Just use Charge+Thunderbolt. Trust me on this; it will be a lot helpful to you. Your Electirizer essentially allows your Electabuzz to skip the years of strenuous training required to increase the power of electricity post-training."

Taking in Surge's advice, I acknowledged, "It is the law of evolution; the tougher the evolution conditions, the greater the power gain." Surge nodded in agreement, "A quote from Professor Rowan. I must say, with the previous two discoveries and this, the old guys will have no choice but to give you a professor's license to study Evolution items."

Smirking in response, I stated, "I am sure they will, not to mention they still haven't finalized the dates for the announcements of previous ones. Now with this," I gestured a WTF to express my impatience,

"No need to worry, little guy. While the previous ones just required items in the wild, which the petty officials must be collecting to pocket some profits. So, they will delay for as long as they can citing reasons like you are lucky or coincidences.

But with this Electirizer, they have no chance but to fast-track the procedure."

I laughed at that, no matter the place, the politicians always bend the rules to profit. The good ones have limits they won't cross and as for the bad ones, I pity the miserable citizens under them.

I bid farewell to Surge, his words echoing in the air, "Do call if you succeed." Nodding in acknowledgement, I replied with a quick "Sure."

As I made my way towards the exit of the gym, Surge called after me, curiosity evident in his voice, "Hey Archer, have you decided on the name in case of success?"

I glanced back at him, a smile playing on my lips, and responded while walking out into the bright daylight, "I will send a pic of Electivire. Stay tuned,"