Chapter 68 - Finals (2)

A hush fell over the entire stadium as they waited with bated breath for Julian's next move. His eyes locked onto Assunta, a determined glint in his gaze as he spoke, his words enigmatic. "Since you've fought your way to the finals, I'll honor you by sending out my very first Pokémon."

Assunta's mind raced with possibilities. 'His first Pokémon? Not Venusaur, then. Could it be Charizard or Blastoise? What on earth is he referring to?'

The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, and the stadium was on the edge of their seats, eager to discover which Pokémon Julian would choose to reveal as his next contender.

Julian's voice resounded with authority as he revealed his next Pokémon. "Go, Infernape!"

Infernape emerged from its Pokéball in a blaze of fiery energy. Flames danced atop its head as it fixed its intense gaze on its opponent, Golduck. The sudden appearance of Infernape sent ripples of tension through the battlefield, causing even Golduck to take a hesitant step back, feeling the weight of its opponent's presence.

The announcer's excitement was palpable. "Julian's second Pokémon is Infernape! This Fire and Fighting-type Pokémon is a rare and powerful sight in battles. Professor Oak, can you provide some insights into this remarkable Pokémon for our audience?"

Professor Oak's voice resonated with knowledge. "Certainly! Infernape is known for its incredible agility and mastery of both fire and fighting techniques. Its speed and power make it a formidable opponent, capable of handling a wide range of challenges in battle. It's a Pokémon that requires skill and strategy to face, and its presence on the field adds a new dimension to this already thrilling battle!"

The stadium buzzed with excitement as the battle between Infernape and Golduck was about to unfold, promising an electrifying clash of strengths and strategies.

The announcer's voice brimmed with enthusiasm. "Indeed, Infernape, a fire starter from the Sinnoh region! This battle has just taken an exciting turn!"

Assunta couldn't help but marvel at Infernape's presence. 'Infernape, this is the first time I've ever seen one. I don't know much about it, but I can sense its strength. Just its arrival on the battlefield made my Golduck take a step back. I need to approach this battle with caution.'

Assunta acted swiftly. "Golduck, Water Gun!"

Golduck responded by launching a powerful stream of Water Gun directly at Infernape, landing a solid hit. The battlefield crackled with energy as the clash between these two formidable Pokémon intensified.

The announcer's voice was filled with surprise. "Infernape has been hit! What is Julian thinking?"

Suddenly, an eerie fog enveloped the battlefield, obscuring the view. As it gradually lifted, the spectators witnessed an astonishing sight – Infernape stood perfectly still, water vapors slowly evaporating from its body.

Assunta couldn't believe her eyes. 'What? The Water Gun had no effect?'

The announcer's voice rang out with disbelief. "Unbelievable! The Water Gun attack just evaporated into thin air upon contact with Infernape's body!"

Assunta voiced the question that echoed in everyone's mind. "But how?"

Julian's voice was confident as he revealed Infernape's abilities. "What's the use of Pokémon having a type if they don't know how to utilize it properly? My Infernape has trained relentlessly to achieve complete mastery over his fire element, allowing him to exert precise control over its temperature. Normal water attacks are rendered useless, evaporating instantly from the sheer heat generated by Infernape."

Assunta was left in awe, her mind racing with the implications. 'Complete control over an element? This Infernape is more formidable than I could have ever imagined.'

Julian's command was swift and decisive. "Infernape, use Fire Punch!"

Before Assunta could even react, Infernape vanished in a blur of motion. In an instant, it reappeared right in front of Golduck, its fist cloaked in blazing flames. With incredible speed, Infernape delivered a devastating Fire Punch that sent Golduck hurtling backward, crashing into the wall behind Assunta.

The entire stadium fell into a stunned silence, the spectators struggling to process the lightning-fast sequence of events. All they had seen was a red blur, and the next moment, Golduck was planted into the wall, unconscious and defeated.

The battle had taken an unexpected turn, leaving the audience in awe of Infernape's extraordinary abilities.

The referee's voice finally broke through the stunned silence. "Golduck is unable to battle. Infernape wins!"

The stadium erupted into a deafening roar of cheers and applause. The spectators couldn't believe their eyes – the battle had concluded in the blink of an eye, and Infernape had emerged victorious with a single, lightning-fast move.

The announcer was equally astonished. "Just one move, and it was all over! I couldn't even see Infernape move, and the battle had already ended!"

Assunta, still in shock, recalled Golduck into its Pokéball and gazed at Infernape, which stood before her with a steely determination. She knew that Infernape was waiting for her next move, and she needed to make her choice wisely.

Assunta's next choice was met with anticipation from the announcer. "Assunta's fourth Pokémon is Rhydon!"

Assunta wasted no time. "Rhydon, use Earthquake!"

With a powerful stomp of its legs, Rhydon sent shockwaves through the battlefield. The ground trembled, and deep cracks spiderwebbed across the once-solid terrain. The spectators watched in awe as the battlefield transformed into a chaotic and tumultuous landscape, setting the stage for the next phase of this intense battle.

Julian acted swiftly. "Infernape, jump and Blaze Kick!"

Infernape leaped into the air, flames enveloping its leg as it propelled itself toward Rhydon with incredible speed.

Assunta, showing quick thinking, issued her countermove. "Grab Infernape's legs and use Seismic Toss!"

Rhydon, its massive strength on full display, reached out and seized Infernape's legs mid-flight. The earlier Earthquake had effectively limited Infernape's aerial mobility, leaving it vulnerable. With a mighty effort, Rhydon began to execute a Seismic Toss, preparing to unleash a devastating throw that would take full advantage of the chaotic battlefield. The spectators held their breath, anticipating the outcome of this high-stakes mid-air struggle.

Julian couldn't help but be impressed by Assunta's quick thinking and her exploitation of Infernape's vulnerability in mid-air. He recognized the flaw in his Pokémon's approach – that Infernape couldn't use its legs to increase speed in mid-air. But he decided to play along with Assunta's plan, curious to see how it would unfold.

As Infernape closed in on Rhydon, its fiery Blaze Kick at the ready, Rhydon seized the opportunity and grasped Infernape's leg.

Julian issued a decisive command. "Blaze Kick."

Assunta, taken aback by Infernape's sudden change of direction, watched in astonishment as Infernape executed a swift roundhouse kick using its other leg, delivering the fiery Blaze Kick right to Rhydon's jaw. The impact sent shockwaves through Rhydon, leaving it momentarily stunned and struggling to maintain its balance.

The battlefield crackled with excitement as the tables turned once again, showcasing the battle prowess and adaptability of both trainers and their Pokémon.

Julian seized the momentum. "Focus Punch!"

Infernape gracefully landed on the ground, then propelled itself upward with incredible speed, its fist charged with the power of a Focus Punch. The uppercut struck Rhydon with unstoppable force, lifting the massive Pokémon from the ground. Rhydon was sent soaring through the air before crashing back down with a resounding thud. It lay still, unable to continue the battle after that devastating Focus Punch.

The referee's voice rang out. "Rhydon is unable to battle. Infernape wins!"

The stadium was filled with a mixture of excitement and sympathy for Assunta, who had just lost another Pokémon. The announcer couldn't help but acknowledge the growing disparity in their Pokémon count. "Another one of Assunta's Pokémon falls. Now, she has only two remaining, while Julian still has all six of his Pokémon ready to go. It's an uphill battle for Assunta, but she's proven to be a resilient trainer."

Assunta's thoughts were resolute. 'It looks like it's over, and I may not win this, but I'll fight until the end.'

Assunta called out her next Pokémon with unwavering determination. "Go, Fearow!"

The announcer turned to Professor Oak for insights. "Professor Oak, what do you think about Assunta's choice of Fearow?"

Professor Oak weighed in. "Well, Fearow is a Flying-type Pokémon, which should give it an advantage against a Fighting-type like Infernape. But battles can be unpredictable, and we'll only truly know what will happen after the battle concludes."

Assunta took her chance. "Fearow, Air Slash!"

Julian responded swiftly. "Counter it with Focus Blast!"

The powerful Air Slash and Focus Blast clashed head-on, creating a deafening boom that reverberated through the battlefield. But just as the dust began to settle, Assunta made her next move, keeping the tension alive in this high-stakes battle.

Assunta reacted swiftly. "Aerial Ace!"

Julian, confident in Infernape's abilities, issued his command. "Meet it head-on with Flame Charge!"

Infernape and Fearow collided with an explosive impact, a testament to their power and speed. However, the result was unmistakable. Fearow was sent hurtling backward, its Aerial Ace causing damage but not enough to overcome Infernape's resilience.

Julian wasted no time. "Finish it with Fire Blast!"

Infernape took a deep breath, puffing its chest out proudly. It unleashed a colossal Fire Blast, a searing inferno of flames that engulfed the falling Fearow. The bird Pokémon was knocked out completely, defeated by the overwhelming power of Infernape's Fire Blast.

The referee declared the outcome. "Fearow is unable to battle. Infernape wins!"

The stadium erupted into cheers once more, recognizing the incredible battle prowess of both trainers and their Pokémon.

The announcer's voice carried a sense of finality. "Assunta is now left with only one Pokémon. It appears that the odds are stacked against her."

As Assunta clenched her fist, it was a gesture not born of frustration or anger but of the sadness that came with the realization that her journey to the finals might be coming to an end. Despite this, she was determined to finish the battle with grace.

With a resolute tone, she called out her last Pokémon. "Go, Hypno!"

Hypno emerged as Assunta's final and one of her strongest Pokémon. She had made up her mind to go all out in this last effort.

"Hypno, use Psychic!"

With the power of Psychic, Hypno lifted Infernape into the air, preparing for a decisive slam to the ground. The battle was far from over, and Assunta was determined to make her final stand with everything she had left.

Julian wasted no time. "Flamethrower!"

Infernap, still suspended in the air, unleashed a blazing Flamethrower that streaked toward Hypno with intense heat.

Assunta reacted quickly. "Hypno, use Teleport!"

Hypno vanished from its location, reappearing a distance away. However, something unexpected happened – the Flamethrower changed direction, manipulated by Infernape's masterful control. It surged toward Hypno's new position.

Despite Hypno's attempt to evade, the Flamethrower struck its mark, causing Hypno to lose concentration over its Psychic ability. Infernape was freed from the psychic grip, and the battlefield crackled with intensity as the battle neared its climax.

Julian was relentless. "Flame Charge with Mach Punch!"

Infernape ignited with fiery speed, surging toward Hypno. With a swift and powerful Mach Punch, Infernape struck Hypno, sending it tumbling across the ground.

Assunta urged her Pokémon to press on. "Hypno, try to get up!"

But Julian had a decisive move in mind. "Finish it with Flare Blitz!"

Infernape's entire body erupted in red-hot flames as it charged mercilessly toward the struggling Hypno. Hypno, desperately trying to regain its footing, didn't stand a chance. The Flare Blitz was an overwhelming display of power, and Hypno absorbed the full force of the attack. It made a valiant attempt to rise, but the effects of Flare Blitz took hold. Hypno was engulfed in a fiery explosion and rendered unconscious, falling to the ground.

The referee declared the result. "Hypno is unable to battle. Infernape wins!"

The stadium erupted into cheers for the incredible performance by both trainers, but ultimately, Julian's Infernape had emerged victorious in this hard-fought battle.

The announcer's voice boomed with excitement. "It's over! Infernape is victorious! Julian is our new Indigo League Champion!"

The stadium erupted into a symphony of cheers and applause, the audience showing their unwavering support for their new Indigo League Champion, Julian.

The crowd rose to their feet, a sea of spectators clapping and cheering for the remarkable battle they had just witnessed. Fireworks lit up the night sky, casting a brilliant display of lights and colors, celebrating the crowning of the champion.

Julian approached Assunta with respect in his eyes, extending his hand for a handshake. "You fought well," he acknowledged.

Assunta, though feeling a sense of sadness, shook Julian's hand with pride. She had no regrets; she knew she had faced one of the strongest opponents in her journey and had earned his appreciation. The battle had been a testament to their skills and determination, leaving a lasting memory for everyone who had witnessed it.

Assunta nodded and simply replied, "Thank you."

As the night sky continued to bloom with the colorful lights of the ongoing fireworks, the anticipation for the awarding ceremony grew. Julian decided to make his way back to the waiting room, where he would prepare for the ceremony.

With a thoughtful expression, he reflected on the battle. 'She was truly impressive,' he thought, 'not fazed by the loss at all. It seemed like she gained something valuable from our battle today. Now that it's over, I should freshen up and head back to the stadium for the ceremony.'

The journey to becoming a Pokémon Champion was filled with unforgettable moments and challenges, and Julian had just reached a significant milestone in his own remarkable adventure.

After washing up and changing into another black coat, Julian made his way back to the stadium. The battleground was now filled with rows of trainers, all of whom had participated in this prestigious league. Each trainer proudly wore a special participation badge, a token of their journey in this year's competition, personally awarded by Mr. Goodshow himself.

The announcer's voice filled the stadium, commanding everyone's attention. "Now is the time to award the top three trainers of this year's league."

Julian ascended to the platform designated for the award ceremony, where he spotted Kurt and Assunta nearby. He exchanged nods with them, recognizing the hard-fought battles they had endured on their respective journeys. Standing tall, he awaited the moment when his achievements would be recognized on this grand stage.

The award ceremony commenced with Mr. Goodshow and the lady in the red dress, who held the trophies, standing at the center of attention.

The announcer's voice rang out once more. "Now, let's begin. The trainer who has earned the third place in the league is Kurt, who showcased his exceptional skills in training Psychic-type Pokémon. Congratulations!"

Kurt stepped forward, greeted by the applause of the crowd. The lady handed over a gleaming bronze trophy to Mr. Goodshow.

Mr. Goodshow congratulated Kurt with a warm smile. "You did well, young man. Congratulations."

Kurt accepted the trophy, holding it high for all to see. The audience responded with enthusiastic claps, recognizing his dedication and accomplishments in the league.

The announcement continued, revealing the second-place winner in the league.

"Second place goes to the talented Assunta," the announcer declared. "She displayed hard work and unwavering determination to achieve this well-deserved honor. Congratulations!"

Assunta gracefully stepped forward, and Mr. Goodshow handed her a gleaming silver trophy. Embracing it tightly, she proudly raised it high above her head. The stadium erupted in a round of applause, acknowledging Assunta's remarkable journey and her achievements in the league.

Then, the announcer's voice rose with a final proclamation. "Now, at last, the moment we've all been waiting for. This year's Indigo League Champion is Julian! He has shown the world the incredible strength of a trainer, remaining undefeated throughout the league, with not a single one of his Pokémon being eliminated. Let's welcome our Indigo League Champion!"

The crowd erupted into thunderous applause and cheers as they celebrated Julian's remarkable victory. The spotlight was firmly on him as he stood tall, receiving the recognition he had worked so hard to achieve.

Julian advanced to the forefront of the stage, basking in the applause and cheers that engulfed the stadium. He approached Mr. Goodshow, who presented him with the coveted Gold Trophy.

Mr. Goodshow acknowledged Julian's achievement. "Now that you have demonstrated your exceptional skills to the world, the Elite Four will be eagerly waiting for you."

Julian accepted the Gold Trophy, cradling it in his arms, and raised it triumphantly above his head. The stadium erupted into an even louder crescendo of applause and cheers, celebrating his outstanding victory in the Indigo League. The journey to becoming a Pokémon Champion had reached its pinnacle, and Julian stood tall as the embodiment of excellence in the world of Pokémon training.

The awarding ceremony concluded with the extinguishing of the Moltres flame, marking the end of another memorable Indigo League. Trainers from various regions began their journeys back to their hometowns, each carrying their own unique mix of emotions – happiness, sadness, triumph, and disappointment. It was a reminder that life's path was filled with a mosaic of experiences, both highs and lows.

However, Julian's path was set to diverge from the others in a unique way, as he contemplated the new challenges and adventures that awaited him beyond the league. His journey was far from over, and as he watched the other trainers depart, he knew that new horizons and opportunities were on the horizon, ready to be explored.