19. Lt. Surge

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In Cerise Park, Kai and Chloe walked side by side, leisurely exploring the grounds.

The environment was stunning lush greenery, flowing streams, and clusters of fruit trees basking in ample sunlight.

Functionally, it resembled the forest behind Professor Oak's lab, where trainers could leave their extra Pokémon to thrive in a safe environment.

As they strolled, Kai observed the park's ecosystem and remarked, "This place is incredible. It seems completely self-sufficient. Dr. Cerise must have put a lot of effort into designing it."

Chloe smiled knowingly. "It wasn't finished until yesterday. My dad said the first thing to do after completion was to have a trainer like you test it out and identify any flaws."

Kai chuckled. "As expected of Professor Cerise always so meticulous."

Nearby, Bulbasaur, Squirtle, Eevee, and Charmander played together, darting around in a lively game of chase.

It was clear they enjoyed the park's environment.

Only Kirlia remained close to Kai, walking calmly by his side.

Watching his Pokémon, Kai called out, "Bulbasaur, that's enough playing around. Save some energy we've got work to do later."

"Work?" Chloe asked, curious. "What do you mean?"

Kai grinned mischievously. "I'm heading to Vermilion Gym for a battle. Want to come and watch? Real Pokémon battles are so much more thrilling than what you see on TV. They'll get your blood pumping!"

"Real Pokémon battles…" Chloe repeated, intrigued. After a moment's hesitation, she nodded. "Alright, I'd like to see that."

As the sun dipped low, painting the skies over Vermilion City with shades of orange, the Vermilion Gym stood tall on the west coast.

Its design was bold, primarily yellow and white, resembling an inverted trapezoid like a modern sports arena.

Kai and Chloe entered the gym and were greeted by a receptionist. After Kai stated his intent to challenge the gym, they were led to the central battlefield.

"Please wait here. Gym Leader Lt. Surge will arrive shortly."

Kai scanned the area. The battlefield's khaki-coloured ground was bare, a classic setup for formal battles.

Surrounding the field were tiered seats on all sides, capable of accommodating nearly a thousand spectators.

The grandeur of the setting made Chloe visibly nervous, her unease evident in her fidgeting.

"Relax," Kai said, patting her shoulder. "There's nothing to worry about just enjoy the battle."

"I'll try." Chloe took a deep breath, then offered a soft, "Good luck."

As Chloe moved to the viewing area, Kai turned back to see several figures emerging from the opposing entrance.

Leading them was a tall man with spiked blond hair, a muscular build, and a commanding presence.

He wore a green military vest, camouflage pants, and aviator sunglasses, with a dog tag around his neck. His confidence, almost intimidating demeanour made it clear this was Lt. Surge, the Gym Leader of Vermilion City.

It was rumoured that Lt. Surge had once been a major in the Air Force, piloting aircraft powered by Electric Pokémon in wartime.

His reputation for aggressive tactics and hard-hitting battles preceded him, with challengers often leaving with severely injured Pokémon if they weren't prepared.

Standing in his command zone, Lt. Surge smirked. "So, you're here to challenge me, huh? Looks like another overconfident rookie walked into my gym."

Kai remained calm, unfazed by the provocation. He stepped forward and said firmly, "I'm here for the Thunder Badge, and I officially challenge you, Lt. Surge."

Lt. Surge folded his arms. "You want the badge? Let's see if you can earn it! Every day, I see plenty of trainers walk in here thinking they're hotshots. Most of them are just babies who don't stand a chance. Tell me, are you one of them?"

Kai frowned at the taunt but kept his composure. "What are the battle rules?"

Lt. Surge grinned, tossing two Poké Balls into the air. "It's simple: no time limit. If you can defeat the two Pokémon I'll use, the badge is yours."

"RAI-CHUUU!"

With a flash of red light, a Raichu appeared on the battlefield. Its larger size, darker fur, and whip-like tail gave it a commanding presence.

Lt. Surge smirked. "Alright, kid, what's your first Pokémon?"

Kai turned to his partner. "Kirlia, it's your time to shine."

"Kir-LIAA!"

Kirlia nodded gracefully and stepped forward onto the battlefield.

Lt. Surge raised an eyebrow, recognizing the Pokémon from another region. Even so, he scoffed. "A Kirlia? Seriously? None of your Pokémon are fully evolved. You've got a lot to learn, baby!"

Kai's expression hardened. "Let's battle first, shall we."

Lt. Surge's smirk faltered slightly, replaced by a serious expression. "Talk is cheap, kid. Raichu, let's go! Use Mega Punch!"

The battle began as Raichu charged forward, its fist glowing with power. Kai reacted quickly. "Kirlia, use Magical Leaf!"

"Kir-kir-lia!"

Glowing green leaves materialized around Kirlia and shot toward the charging Raichu. Lt. Surge, unfazed, commanded, "Raichu, counter with Thunderbolt!"

"Raaaai... CHUUU!!!"

Electricity crackled from Raichu's body, colliding with the Magical Leaf attack in midair.

An explosion followed, but the leaves pierced through the lightning and struck Raichu, pushing it back slightly.

Kai's strategy was off to a strong start, but the intensity of the battle was far from over.

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PS: Fun fact a player once defeated the Elite Four and Champion using six Magikarp. Anything is possible with strategy!

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