Chapter 35: Travelling To Seafoam Island

As Julian descended from the rocky heights of Navel Rock, a major issue suddenly struck him—he had no means to return. He pondered the situation, realizing that he hadn't made arrangements for a return ferry.

Julian muttered to himself, "Amidst all the excitement yesterday, I completely forgot about planning my way back. Hmm... perhaps I can ride on top of Gyarados."

With a determined expression, he called out to his loyal Gyarados and explained the predicament.

Julian addressed his Pokémon, saying, "Gyarados, it seems there's no ferry available for our return trip. It looks like we'll have to rely on your strength and speed to get us back to Cinnabar Island."

Gyarados, with a joyful nod, allowed Julian to climb onto his head, and they embarked on their journey back to Cinnabar Island. As Gyarados powered through the waves, Julian perched atop him, the rushing wind whipping against his face.

Julian couldn't help but exclaim, "Wow, I never expected riding on top of Gyarados to be this exhilarating! Gyarados, let's go even faster!"

In response to Julian's request, Gyarados accelerated, propelling them forward at an astonishing pace. The increased speed nearly caught Julian off guard, but he swiftly adjusted his grip, determined to savor every moment of this thrilling ride.

Upon reaching Cinnabar Island in a mere two hours, courtesy of Gyarados's incredible speed on the water, Julian headed straight to Blaine's Inn to retrieve his bike. To his surprise, he found Blaine outside, methodically cutting grass in the lawn. Blaine's face bore a heavy, despondent expression.

Julian approached him and asked, "Why are you cutting grass with such a gloomy look, Blaine?"

Blaine paused for a moment, his gaze distant, before he sighed deeply. "Kid, you won't understand the complexities of life's feelings. Let me offer you a piece of advice – never consider marriage in your lifetime."

With a keen understanding of Blaine's situation and not wanting to delve into it further, Julian made a hasty exit from the inn, securing his bike and pedaling swiftly toward the port. There, he obtained a ticket for the ferry to Seafoam Island and embarked on the next leg of his journey.

Julian contemplated his upcoming challenge. He whispered to himself, "Next stop, Seafoam Island, where I'll face Articuno. Defeating all three Legendary Birds would be a remarkable achievement. Now, as for my strategy... Kabuto seems like a strong candidate, capable of dealing four times the damage to Articuno. Plus, Kabuto is on the brink of evolution. Let's see how things unfold."

After a long day's journey from Cinnabar Island, Julian finally disembarked from the ferry onto the shores of Seafoam Island. The island stretched out before him, vast and teeming with activity. He observed a bustling scene—people and Pokémon frolicking on the beach. Some daring individuals rode the high tides atop their trusty Pokémon, while others lounged on the sand, basking in the warm sunlight.

Julian couldn't help but remark to himself, "This place truly is a holiday haven. People come here to unwind and enjoy their vacations."

With a sense of anticipation for the challenges that lay ahead, Julian took his first steps onto Seafoam Island, ready to explore its secrets and face the Legendary Pokémon Articuno.

Julian strolled along the bustling pathways of Seafoam Island, captivated by the array of stalls offering various goods, from intricate jewelry to mouthwatering food, refreshing drinks, and even delectable ice cream. It was a lively scene that painted the island with vibrancy and life.

Venturing deeper into the heart of the island, Julian discovered a quaint little town where the locals displayed warmth and hospitality, making him feel right at home. He exchanged friendly greetings and stories with the island's inhabitants as he continued his exploration.

Eventually, he arrived at the island's Pokémon Center. Knowing that his Pokémon needed care, he entrusted them to Nurse Joy's capable hands. With his Pokémon being looked after, Julian made his way to a telephone in the center's lobby.

As the call connected, he saw Professor Oak on the screen, casually enjoying a bowl of instant ramen.

Professor Oak chuckled between bites of his instant ramen and said, "Hahaha, Julian, don't mind me enjoying a quick meal. You know how busy I am, hardly any time to eat. By the way, where are you right now?"

Julian replied, "It's alright, Professor. I'm currently on Seafoam Island."

Oak's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Seafoam Island? Excellent! I've heard that you can find Water Stones and Ice Stones there. If you come across any, please bring them back. My next research project focuses on these evolution stones."

Julian nodded, saying, "I see, Professor Oak. I also need your assistance. Can you help me find an Electirizer?"

Oak raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "An Electirizer? Is it for your Elekid? It seems like it has evolved if you're in need of an Electirizer."

Julian confirmed, "Yes, he has evolved, and I might return within three months. If you could locate one for me, it would be greatly appreciated."

Oak assured him, "Not a problem at all, Julian. I'll make sure to obtain an Electirizer for you. And don't forget to collect those evolution stones during your travels."

Julian concluded the conversation, saying, "Thank you, Professor. I'll be in touch. Goodbye for now."

After turning off the telephone, Julian made his way to his room. The exhaustion from his journey had caught up with him, and he sought some much-needed rest to recharge for the adventures that awaited him on Seafoam Island.

A day had passed on Seafoam Island, and Julian found himself on the beach, dressed in swim shorts that showcased his defined, muscular physique. His presence drew admiring glances from many beachgoers, particularly the onlookers who couldn't help but appreciate his physique.

Today's plan involved surfing, and with Kabuto perched atop his head, Julian grabbed his surfboard and raced toward the sea. He positioned himself on the board, paddling with determination until a sizable wave presented itself. Skillfully, he rose to his feet and began riding the powerful surge of water, riding the big wave with grace and exhilaration.

After a satisfying session of surfing, Julian decided it was time to shift his focus toward finding Articuno. He rented a Jet Ski, revving its engine and skimming across the island's coastal waters. Julian diligently explored every nook and cranny of the island, scanning the terrain for any signs of the Legendary Pokémon. His journey eventually led him to a cave entrance, but he hesitated to venture further. The turbulent waters at the cave's entrance posed a risk to the Jet Ski.

Julian contemplated his next move and ultimately made a decision. He reached for his Poké Balls and called out Gyarados, recognizing that the massive Water/Flying-type Pokémon's power and resilience were precisely what he needed for this challenging task.

Julian, with a sense of determination, turned his attention toward Gyarados. "Gyarados, can you navigate through that cave?"

Julian pointed toward the cave entrance for Gyarados to see. The massive Water/Flying-type Pokémon approached the turbulent current with a calm and unwavering demeanor, nodding to indicate that he could indeed traverse it.

Recognizing Gyarados's ability to handle the violent current, Julian left the Jet Ski behind and mounted the formidable Pokémon. Together, they entered the cave, and Julian marveled at its sheer size. Even Gyarados, with his towering form, could move comfortably within the expansive space.

As they ventured deeper into the cave, they realized that the powerful current was caused by water cascading downward. The further they ventured, the more intense the current became. Yet, Gyarados remained unfazed, his powerful body effortlessly pushing against the flow.

Eventually, they reached a point where the cave branched into two paths. Julian could feel a noticeable drop in temperature from one path, while the other resounded with the roar of rushing water. Instinctively, he chose the path with the frigid air, believing it to be the correct route.

With Gyarados forging ahead, the water's turbulence gradually subsided, giving way to a serene stillness. Julian noticed small ice fragments floating on the water's surface as they continued their journey.

Deeper and deeper they ventured, until they arrived at a breathtaking sight—a chamber enshrouded in ice. Julian knew that they had embarked on a journey into the heart of Seafoam Island's chilling depths, where the Legendary Pokémon Articuno awaited.

Julian carefully dismounted Gyarados, returning the Water/Flying-type Pokémon to its Poké Ball. He began to explore the icy cavern with a sense of wonder and anticipation. The Ice Stone he discovered embedded in the wall piqued his interest, and he carefully removed it, placing it securely inside his pouch for safekeeping.

As Julian continued along the frozen path, he suddenly found himself face to face with a Seel. Before he could react, the Seel unleashed a frigid Ice Beam in his direction. With swift reflexes, Julian sidestepped the attack, narrowly avoiding its icy blast.

Julian muttered in surprise, "What's with this sudden aggression? It seems like this Seel is quite territorial."

Swiftly, Julian took action. He called upon Kabuto, who emerged ready for battle. Julian instructed his Pokémon, "Kabuto, use Aqua Jet!"

Kabuto responded with remarkable speed, dashing forward and catching the Seel off guard. The Aqua Jet propelled Seel backward, causing it to slide helplessly across the icy surface.

With Seel momentarily stunned, Julian seized the opportunity. He commanded Kabuto, "Now, cling onto it and use Absorb!"

Kabuto obeyed, leaping onto the bewildered Seel and securing a firm hold. Using Absorb, Kabuto drained the energy from its opponent. Weakened and unable to resist, Seel succumbed to the draining effects and fell unconscious.

Julian stood victorious in the icy chamber, having skillfully subdued the aggressive Seel.

Julian commended Kabuto with a grin. "Great job, Kabuto!"

Kabuto, pleased with the praise, crawled onto Julian's head and settled comfortably. Together, they continued to explore the icy cave, encountering more Pokémon along the way. Each time, Kabuto's strength and skill easily triumphed over their opponents.

As they ventured deeper into the cave, the plummeting temperature signaled their proximity to their destination. However, their journey was suddenly interrupted when an Ice Beam attacked them once more. Reacting swiftly, Julian sidestepped the icy assault.

A sense of déjà vu washed over him, and he muttered, "Déjà vu."

Julian and Kabuto turned to identify their new assailant. To their surprise, it was a Dewgong that had unleashed the chilling Ice Beam, standing there with a determined expression

Here's a revised version of Julian's response to Dewgong's attack:

Julian couldn't help but chuckle at the twist of events. "Well, it's not a complete déjà vu, as this time it's a Dewgong."

With determination, he commanded Kabuto, "Kabuto, use Rock Throw!"

Kabuto leaped off Julian's head, swiftly conjuring four rocks that sailed toward Dewgong with impressive force.

Dewgong displayed agility, narrowly evading the first two rocks, but the third found its mark, striking the ground and creating an uneven surface. Struggling to regain its footing, Dewgong was caught off guard as the fourth rock struck it directly, inflicting a significant injury and leaving it visibly weakened.

Julian, seizing the opportunity, commanded Kabuto, "Kabuto, use Absorb!"

Kabuto sprang onto the weakened Dewgong, utilizing Absorb to siphon away the last remnants of its energy. In the wake of the draining, Dewgong succumbed to exhaustion and fainted.

As Kabuto disengaged from its defeated opponent, a radiant glow enveloped the Water/Rock-type Pokémon, signifying a significant change. Julian watched in amazement as Kabuto's form began to shift and evolve.

Julian reflected with a sense of astonishment, "Well, I thought he'd evolve during our battle with Articuno, but it seems it's happening sooner than I expected."

Kabuto's transformation into a more powerful form marked an exciting development in their journey, one that held the promise of even greater challenges and accomplishments.

As Kabuto's body bathed in a brilliant glow, a remarkable transformation overtook him. His once compact form expanded into a larger, more formidable creature. Two imposing, scythe-like arms emerged, and his back bristled with intimidating spikes. His triangular head resembled a fierce predator.

Julian's eyes gleamed with excitement as the transformation completed. "Kabuto, you've evolved into Kabutops!"

He quickly called upon the system for Kabutops's updated stats:

Status - Kabutops

Level - 40

Age - 5 months

State - Happy

Bond - 98%

HP - 90

Attack - 160

Defense - 140

Sp. Atk - 100

Sp. Def - 110

Speed - 110

Move set - Harden, Scratch, Blizzard, Ice Beam, Absorb, Aqua Jet, Rock Throw, Metal Claw, Sword Dance, Stone Edge

Ability - Swift Swim (Unlocked), Battle Armor (Unlocked), Weak Armor (Unlocked)

Julian couldn't help but smile with satisfaction. "He learned three moves after evolving, including one Iron-type, one Rock-type, and one Normal-type move. These will certainly come in handy in our upcoming battles."

With Kabutops's evolution, Julian felt even more prepared to face the challenges that awaited them, including the impending battle with Articuno.

As the cry of the frustrated bird echoed within the icy cavern, Julian turned his attention to Kabutops, who appeared eager for the upcoming battle. Julian's voice was filled with determination as he addressed his evolved Pokémon.

"Kabutops, are you ready? Your next fight is going to be an exciting one."

Kabutops responded with an enthusiastic nod, the anticipation of using his newly acquired claws evident in his demeanor. With unwavering resolve, Julian and Kabutops were prepared to face the Legendary Pokémon Articuno and the challenges that awaited them in the heart of the icy cave.