Chapter 43: Sinnoh -6 [ *Hidden *]
-----------Archer's pov-------------
I took the seat as indicated by Mrs. Lusamine, as I prepared to discuss my plans of opening a breeding house. "My dream of opening a breeding house," I began, "was something I had envisioned long before Dregen's death forced me to confront the reality of my responsibilities. "
She nodded in thought as an understanding of my background story, one that was broadcasted by multiple reports over various channels the day I inherited the will assets.
Initially, I had planned to establish it on Caromile Island, a place that had been transformed into a Pokémon preserve by the Nurse Joy clan in the canon universe.
I had acquired the island for the breeding house from the funds from Dregen's will but ultimately decided against pursuing it out of a sense of moral obligation over my shoulder, to use the money for the betterment of Bharatsa.
"So, considering the need to establish one in Bharatsa, I thought it best to take advantage of the lower costs and build on a massive scale," I concluded, bringing up the preliminary plans that Rotomdex+ AI had meticulously maintained over the years.
Mrs. Lusamine nodded in approval as she examined the plans, her admiration evident as she whistled at the grand design that encompassed parts of the Okoya Forests and stretched towards the coast and the surrounding islands. I had made provisions for various habitats, including tropical volcanoes, hills, frozen peaks for ice-type Pokémon, and barren rocky islands for rock and ghost types.
" I am impressed by the ecological plan, Mr Archer," Lusamine continued with praise," Especially the measures taken for the safety and protection of Pokémon. I am impressed."
However, her face turned toward me from the reports and uttered, "Why? I mean Why me?"
I met her gaze steadily, my response heartfelt. "Because Mrs. Lusamine, your Aether Foundation is renowned as the best organization in terms of Pokémon ecology in the world."
Before I could elaborate further, we were interrupted by an unexpected voice. "A position that will shake with Devon's entrance."
Turning, I saw the source of the interruption— the managing director of Devon, head of Pokémon Items and Stores, and a familiar thorn in my side, Steven Stone.
It seemed my earlier comments about winning the conference on the first try had not gone unnoticed by his pride.
So, the genius who won the Honen conference last year [ his second try] came with quite a fanfare to Kanto and already won 6 badges in a single month.
As if to make a statement he made it clear by now appearing here, a fair that is usually attended by some executives from Devon, not by the heir himself.
The pretty boy, exuding confidence and familiarity with the business world, took his seat with a nod to Mrs. Lusamine, indicating at least some form of familiarity. "We've already undertaken multiple ecology breeding projects," he began, his tone carrying an air of authority. "We led the establishment of the Ecology Park in Barren Deserts, and even managed the renowned Goldenrod City's Moomoo Ranch."
He pointed at the holographic model, "This project, while ambitious in scale, benefits greatly from the natural resources provided by Bharatsa. So, the only significant challenges lie in creating the ice peak and Ghost structure on the Barren Island."
I couldn't help but acknowledge his impressive achievements, recognizing him as a genuine genius, unlike my past self. However, a sense of pride prickled within me, prompting me to question further, "So, is it better than the Aether Foundation now, in the present?"
To my surprise, he didn't hesitate to respond, "No."
Curious, I pressed on. "Then what's the problem?"
Mrs. Lusamine, who had been observing our exchange with a smile, interjected, "It's a matter of pride for Devon. Frankly speaking, this project isn't exceptionally challenging, aside from its larger scale. Disregarding Devon for the Aether Foundation, which is yet to establish itself in Kanto, could be seen as a slight to any Devon employee pride. Especially your Projects that are garnering attention each day, more like each minute considering your reveal of Porygon2 "
I nodded, understanding Steven's perspective, but I explained my reasoning. "It's because your company hasn't fully established itself that I'm considering you," I explained. "This project could mark Aether's first significant foray into the Pokémon Alliance, expanding your influence beyond Alola. I'm sure a savvy businesswoman like you isn't satisfied with just regional success."
Mrs. Lusamine smiled at the flattery, but her pride was evident.
So, I continued, delivering the final blow, "It could be seen as the first step towards joining the Alliance, much like how Silph Corp paved the way for Hoenn and Sinnoh. It is said till today as an example of Silph Corp's influence, capable of effecting inter-regional dealings."
Steven's eyes held a fierce look of competition when he mentioned Silph Corp, and I couldn't help remembering and be impressed by his audacious dream: to topple the giant of the Pokémon Alliance from its lofty perch and sit on it.
--------------------------------
"It has been a pleasure meeting you Mr. Archer."
"Same to you, Mrs Lusamine."
TACK
TACK
TACK
As Lusamine left after she and I finalized the deal, Steven finally spoke up. His tone was casual yet filled with something else. "I've been looking for you for some time now to challenge you to a Pokémon battle."
My heart swelled with the same feeling, which I came to realise was the excitement of facing a worthy opponent, particularly one in my age group.
However, I knew my chances were slim in 6vs6 as Kleavor and Eevee still had a final training marathon ahead. But my pride rebelled at the thought of backing down, especially now.
"As much as I'd love to, I've already booked plane tickets for my trip to Cinnabar this evening. If we battle now, I'll miss my flight."
While the idea of a battle was thrilling, I knew it wasn't the right time. With two more gyms to conquer and a packed schedule, battling Steven now would mean missing my evening flight to Cinnabar for my gym battle. Steven sighed in understanding. "Very well. Let's meet at the conference for the battle."
I gave a firm nod of agreement, but his next words caught me off guard. "You should consider buying a plane. It's quite convenient when compared to book one. I recommend my company's MetaG 13, priced at a slim 50 million Pokédollars. It can withstand herds of flying Pokémon attacks."
I shook my head, amused by the vast difference in wealth between us. Fuck, if I had 50 million liquid cash I would rather repay the league loan or invest in my business. I guess, I am still not rich enough.
Before I could respond, a voice from behind us made both Steven and I jump in shock.
"Oye, oye. These brats are looking at you as mere stepping stones."
THUMP
THUMP
THUMP
Steven and I turned to see towards the source of footsteps. An old man with a glass dressed in a red T-shirt and a bead necklace - Blaine, the gym leader of Cinnabar Island.
But it wasn't Blaine's presence that shocked me. It was the owner of the voice, a man whose arrival would undoubtedly cause a sensation. I am sure some extreme Sinnoh warheads might even be preparing for a countermeasure already.
It might sound insane but there have been cases in the past. Hmm, maybe for that reason he doesn't travel anywhere for a long other than his labs.
So, I greeted the guy who with just his intellect and might, had changed society into something straight out of a fairy tale - Professor Samuel Oak.
----------------------------------------------------------------
----------Jon's pov--------
I watched as the gym leader that both geniuses have been causally disregarding as if a common trainer to win against till now stood in front of them.
As I observed the scene unfolding before me, I couldn't help but notice the self-centred nature of geniuses and celebrities.
Even Archer had been slowly shedding his concern for others' opinions and seemed entirely absorbed in the conversation at hand. The entire area fell silent as everyone nearby leaned in to eavesdrop on the spicy exchange.
Professor Carolina, the host responsible for the fair, approached to greet the newcomers. "You old fools finally managed to move your butts," she teased.
Professor Oak, the legendary figure, simply shrugged, his gaze fixed on the seated duo of geniuses.
Blaine, speaking for the first time, cut to the chase. "So why don't you brats put your feet where it's worth? Hey, Carolina, is there a battlefield nearby?"
Carolina rolled her eyes and replied, "Considering I invited you battle maniacs; I had one ready."
Oak chuckled, "The battle days are behind me, my friend. It's been some years."
Blaine snorted in response as the trio of old men left the room, leaving me struggling to process the whirlwind of events. Archer and Steven hastily followed after them, their excitement visible on their face from the broad smiles and flashing teeth.
Realizing that I was about to witness a Pokémon battle, excitement surged through me. The guests began to follow suit, eager for the spectacle. To my surprise, Sam ran behind, carrying plates of food and cans of coke.
I gave him a thumbs up before dashing out to join the crowd, eager to see what would unfold next.
------Temp field, outside luncheon----
As we finally reached the field, Archer and Steven took one side while Blaine stood opposite them.
As I racked my brain about the conversations we had missed, Professor Oak stood up as the referee, his voice booming across the field, "This will be a 1 vs 2 battle between Blaine, the veteran of Cinnabar, and the youthful duo from Kanto and Hoenn, Archer and Steven. Each trainer may only send out one Pokémon."
CHARRRR
CLAYYYYYYY
Both trainers nodded in agreement and released their chosen Pokémon onto the field. From Steven's side emerged Claydol, while Archer's Charizard took its place beside it. Facing the formidable duo, Blaine grinned and sent out his own Pokémon with a confident shout, "Come on, partner!"
MAGMARRRRR
A burst of flames erupted from the Pokéball he threw, revealing a Magmar. Its fists clenched tightly, and its tail swung with force, dispersing the flames and sending waves of energy across the field. Even though I wasn't a breeder, I could see the signs of ageing on the Magmar—the slight greying and loss of shine near its black appendages on its ankles and neck.
These were telltale signs of old age, indicating that this Pokémon is likely to be Blaine's starter, once said to be a dominant force among elite trainers but like all living things its strength began to wane with time.
However, there was still a reason why Magmar was known as a formidable opponent. I could feel the intense heat radiating from the flames it emitted a heat that could rival the strongest moves of Archer's Charizard. It seems, despite the effects of old age on its body and stamina, the Magmar retained its experience and mastery, particularly in harnessing fire-type energy.
With a swift movement of his hand, Professor Oak signalled the start of the match with a booming shout, "Let the battle begin!"
Blaine vs Archer and Steven
As the announcement for battle commenced, the crowd's anticipation heightened within an instant. It was because Blaine's Magmar wasted no time in launching a powerful Flamethrower directly at Archer's Charizard. The flames roared with ferocity, engulfing the air with searing heat.
WHROOOOOOOM
Archer's response was swift. "Charizard fly high and say hello too."
Charizard evaded the attack with a split-second dodge, soaring gracefully through the air to evade the oncoming flames. In the same fluid motion, Charizard retaliated with a counterattack, unleashing a blazing stream of Fire Blast towards Magmar.
WHROOOOOMO
It was impressive that Charizard started charging as it took flight.
Before my thoughts were even finished forming, Steven who was observing the battle with a focused gaze, analysed the situation and gave a rapid command almost a second behind charizard's attack.
"Claydol, Psychic"
TING
With a nod of determination, he directed his Claydol to reinforce Charizard's assault, amplifying the Fire Blast's power with a simultaneous Psychic attack. The combined force of Charizard's fiery blast and Claydol's psychic energy surged towards Magmar with formidable strength.
BOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMM
From the explosion, the first to appear is a green orb.
It seems Blaine was not one to be caught off guard. He managed to command Magmar to execute a quick protection, easily bearing the brunt of the attack.
BOOM
As the Fire blast barely grazed the project, Magmar retaliated by launching itself forward with explosive force towards Charizard. Among the booms from the sound of Magamr's feet, the Pokemon arrived in a span of a second in front of Charizard.
BOOM
BOOM
BOOOM
As Magmar's fire punch sent Charizard crashing to the ground, the crowd gasped in shock.
BAMMMMMMMM
Magmar, its fiery aura blazing, swiftly righted itself using a clever Fire Spin to dodge Claydol's Psybeam.
"Wow."
I agree with Sam on that. It was fucking cool.
But, the intense battle didn't wait for us to feel awe. Instead, it continued as Blaine urged his Pokémon forward, his voice echoing across the field.
"Magmar, finish off the lizard!" Blaine's command was met with a determined nod from his Pokemon.
MAG
WHROOM
Magmar nodded and dropped down from its position in Midair at a speed that accelerated with the flames surrounding it. A use of flame charge or Flame Blitz, I don't know which, but I could see a fire punch burning sun hot.
WHROOM
WHROOOM
WHROOOOOOM
The entire process from the first fire punch happened in a few seconds, The blazing firestar landed in the blink of an eye in the silhouette of Magmar landed the fire punch on the downed Charizard. I could feel the ground shaking as cracks spread from the punch as the epicentre to us spectators.
CHARRRR
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMM
The impact was felt by everyone present. Charizard's roars of pain filled the air, evoking cries of fear from the scattered kids watching.
CHARRR
CHARRRRRRRRRR
But the adults, teens like me, and even the crying kids watched the intense fight that only started 30 seconds back.
As the smoke cleared, revealing Charizard lying wounded on the ground, Blaine while rubbing the ends of his moustache started shouting, "You know my old partner can do this all day brats."
Steven responded to the trash talk with a smile, "I know, sir. So, our plan wasn't intended to take all day. Claydol."
Claydol sprang into action with a sudden teleportation, it appeared beside Magmar, gathering energy. The sounds and the cracks on its armour made me realise it was the move prep for the one-hit- explosion.
My butt skidded to the edge of my seat from the excitement. However, Professor Carolina's voice cut through the crowd's tension with a laugh. "That Magmar has weathered countless explosions in battles past. It will take more than a simple explosion to defeat it."
I watched as the professor continued with another line that depressed me, "Not to forget whether the old fool even gives the chance for the explosion."
Blaine sent a command to his Pokemon as if to echo her words, "Come on old fellow, don't show partiality towards the youngsters. Give some punches to the Doll too."
The Magmar gave a smirk mirroring his trainer showing their bond in their expressions, as a fist lit up with fire.
WHROOOM
Just as I began to think the battle was over, Professor Oak's voice rang out with a surprising declaration. "It appears the loser in the match is decided."
CHARRR
To my astonishment, Charizard suddenly sprang back to life, using a Fire Fang to grasp Magmar's flaming fist.
MAGMMAARRR
Despite the pain, Magmar retaliated, unleashing a barrage of fiery punches upon Charizard's head.
BANG
BANG
BANG
BANG
CHARRRR
I couldn't help but laugh at the stubbornness of Charizard, likening it to Archer's determination.
The two Pokémon continued their fierce exchange, heedless of the cries from the crowd.
"Magmar, you old fool. Get out of there."
Magmar stopped for a single second from his trainer's shout regarding the impending explosion, but it went sideways as soon as Charizard's roars were heard.
CHAR
CHARRRR
CHAR
Magmar shouted up with literal red eyes, "MAGMARRRRRRRRRRRR"
With his only free fist exploded in flames it went back to hammering but Charizard gave some payback this time by using his fire punches. So, under the close restraint of Fire Fang on Magmar, both fire Pokemon started tearing each other up.
BAM
CRACKLE
BOOM
BANG
BOOOOOMMMM
Fucking this is some blood-boiling fight.
Archer, who had been uncharacteristically quiet until now, spoke up to Blaine. "Perhaps the old beast can withstand one explosion, but what about two?"
In response, Charizard's flames from his fangs and punches spread through his entire body. I saw as he began to glow blood red from the intense heat, his fiery aura matching the intensity of Magmar's flames for the first time.
TING
Just in time, Claydoll's cracks lit up with energy. Fear rippled through the crowd as they realized the impending danger. A fear that made me shout out, "You insane bastards."
Disregarding their safety, Archer and Steven issued simultaneous commands, their voices ringing out in unison. ""Explode. Overheat.""
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMBOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
The resulting explosion was cataclysmic with both moves feeding into each other. The result engulfed the battlefield in a blinding blaze.
WHROOM
WHROOOM
The shockwave rattled my senses, leaving my ears ringing as I feared for my life.
ALAKKKAAZZZZ
SINGH
TINGHH
But just as quickly as it began, the explosion was contained within a barrier of light screens, courtesy of Professor Oak's Alakazam.
The box of light screens was diverting the explosion into the sky.
WHOOOOSSHHHHHHHHH
The sky seemed bright red, with not a hint of cloud in sight.
PIT PAT PIT PIT PAT PIT
As my ears kept ringing, I observed the battlefield that appeared from the smoke, it was pitch black with ashes and soot, which soon separated from a passing gust of wind to reveal the unconscious Pokemon.
I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the power unleashed by both Pokémon. Despite the devastation, it was clear that this battle would be remembered by me for years to come.
THUCK
The resounding high five between Archer and Steven echoed through the air, punctuated by their shared laughter at the success of their strategy.
"Hell, yeah."
--------------------------------------
Sam and I approached the trainers, who were carefully tending to their Pokémon, and administering necessary treatments.
Professor Oak's jovial laugh cut through the air as he addressed the victorious duo. "You two are certainly getting slow in your old age. And what's with the handicap?" His teasing question prompted a realization in me - Magmar had only utilized Fire-type moves throughout the match.
The younger trainers seemed to come to the same realization, their expressions mirroring my own. as Oak's laughter continued.
Blaine's moustache danced with amusement as he said, "I was worried they might lose heart, but who would have thought they'd perform so admirably? Isn't that right, partner?"
Unlike Charizard and Claydol, who showed signs of exhaustion and injury, Magmar sprang back to its feet with a grunt directed at Charizard.
CHAR
The fire lizard, in turn, seemed to offer an apology, bowing its head in acknowledgement. It was some time in the future that I realised the apology was due to Charizard insulting Magmar in the match. I wonder what kind of insults kept him occupied from caring about Cladoll's impending explosion.
I observed with surprise as Charizard's wounds began to heal, a characteristic of the move Rest. It was a mastery typically seen in Pokémon like Electivire. However, some wounds remained unhealed, indicating that they had surpassed the limit of natural recovery for Pokémon. After all, the move was called Rest, not Heal.
THUCK
Blaine tossed something to both trainers, revealing it to be the Volcano Badge. With a casual comment, he acknowledged their worthiness. "You two have earned this. I'm too lazy to engage in a 6 vs. 6 battle with both of you for this. With this guy as a witness, there should be no dispute with the old guard."
Blaine gestured towards Oak as if his presence alone explained all the procedures broken.
He then addressed Carolina with a sly smirk. "So, old lady, will this be enough to boost the popularity of your fair?"
Carolina, though visibly irritated, gave a curt nod, indicating that this outcome had indeed been one of Blaine's underlying motives.
However, the tone in Blaine's voice shifted to one of resignation as he continued, "Old age takes its toll. If Magmar were in his prime, he could have easily wiped out those young Pokémon with just his Fire Punch."
I glanced over at his partner, who surprisingly found himself being attended to by Archer. The younger trainer was examining the charred areas on Magmar's limbs and neck, his eyes shimmering with a silver hue. "It should be possible for you to regain your former strength," Archer remarked optimistically.
He sent Rotomdex to display the battle data. Though the specifics were beyond my comprehension, I could discern a faint glow surrounding Magmar in the scans, a glow that seemed to dissipate once the explosion subsided. "I believe your Magmar is similar to my Electivire; it has the potential to evolve, but it needs to meet certain conditions. Conditions that, with some research, I believe you can fulfil."
I couldn't help but feel surprised at Archer's sudden display of kindness. It was far too contrasting when compared to his usual self-centred demeanour. Perhaps it was just the adrenaline rush from the battle, I reasoned. Otherwise, it seemed impossible for him to be so considerate.
In response to Archer's words, Magmar emitted a few sparks of fire in his direction. Blaine chuckled at this, remarking, "We're not that far gone to steal your spark, young one. You can find it on your own."
CLANG
Blaine with a toss passed a Pokéball to Archer, who caught it somewhat awkwardly. It opened revealing a Magby to the astonishment of those present.
MAGGGBBYYYYYY
Archer stared at Magmar in disbelief, but the fire Pokémon merely grunted in response, signalling to Charizard. Even I could understand that Magmar admired Charizard's bravery and wished the same for its young counterpart.
The Magby saluted Blaine before scampering over to Charizard and hopping onto its head with youthful exuberance.
===============================
Title reveal: The 7th Kanto gym battle in Sinnoh
So weird, but it happened.
(づ￣ 3￣)づ
Author's note: No worries guys, a gym doesn't mean he will sit in it all day. He will make trips across the world for new pokémon, or other advantages from metaknowledge. Think of an expedition of Mega stones, or for Moss rocks.
As for the championship, I could only say Bharatsa is not something that a gym leader can change. I would say it is a matter of chance even for a champion.
-P.S
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