Chapter 154: Blue's Growth
~Blue O. POV~
[Kanto Region, Meanwhile, Route 10 – Power Plant]
The salty tang of the ocean hung heavy in the air as I stood at the edge of Route 10, gazing at the imposing silhouette of the Power Plant. It had been a long year, a year of relentless training and soul-searching after my defeat at the Indigo League.
The sting of that loss still lingered, a constant reminder that raw talent wasn't enough. I needed to be better, stronger, more knowledgeable.
That's why I poured myself into training, pushing my Pokémon to their absolute limits with a shift in team rotation. Charizard's flames burned hotter, Scizor's blades gleamed sharper, and Alakazam's psychic powers reached new heights. Dragonite became a whirlwind of draconic fury, capable of leveling mountains with a single Hyper Beam.
But those weren't the only changes. Driven by a desire to explore new horizons, just as Azure ventured to Alola.
I ventured into the Johto region, immersing myself in its unique culture and battling its formidable trainers. It was there, amidst the ancient ruins and sprawling forests, that I encountered two Pokémon that would redefine my team.
First up, a Heracross, a Bug/Fighting type with unmatched strength and unwavering loyalty towards me. And Larvitar, a Rock/Ground type powerhouse, whose potential was as vast as the mountains it called home.
The journey to evolve Larvitar into Tyranitar was arduous. Days bled into weeks as I pushed it through countless battles, teaching it to harness its raw power and control its destructive instincts.
Finally, the day arrived when Larvitar, surrounded by a blinding light into a Pupitar and then, transformed into the monstrous, rock-armored behemoth that was Tyranitar. Its presence alone radiated immense power, a force that I felt privileged to wield.
Now, returning to Kanto, I felt a shift within myself. I wasn't just the same cocky kid who once boasted about being the world's greatest Pokémon trainer.
I was Blue Oak, the Dex Holder, the Trainer, and someone who had earned every victory through blood, sweat, and unwavering dedication. The internet, a tool I had previously dismissed as trivial, had become an invaluable source of information.
Rumors had been swirling for months about a powerful Electric-type Pokémon residing within the abandoned Power Plant. Zapdos, the legendary bird of lightning. I've heard from Azure that he had the Bird Trio at one point but released them.
I couldn't help but ask why he did so. But if he allowed free-roaming Pokémon to be captured, who am I to judge him for a free Legendary?
A chance to battle a legendary Pokémon. A challenge I couldn't resist.
The air crackled with static as I approached the plant's decaying entrance. Rusting metal groaned in the sea breeze, and shattered windows offered glimpses into the darkness within... still in bad condition as I remembered.
This place reeked of neglect and disuse, a stark contrast to the humming energy it once produced. Tch. It still brings back some bad memories of my encounter with that old hag Agatha...
Nonetheless, I can feel a strong presence here. I said, my voice echoing in the stillness, "Alright, team. Be on your guard. We don't know what we're walking into."
I took a deep breath and stepped inside. The interior was a labyrinth of corridors and machinery, coated in a thick layer of dust and grime.
Broken wires dangled from the ceiling, spitting sparks as they brushed against the corroded metal. The silence was unnerving, broken only by the occasional drip of water and the faint hum of residual electricity.
*Pop*
Hurling a Poke Ball out, I sent out Alakazam. I gave him a brief command while being alert in the Power Plan, "Alakazam, use your Psychic to scan the area. Let me know if you sense anything unusual."
Alakazam closed its eyes, its spoons trembling slightly as it focused its immense psychic power. After a moment, it opened its eyes and nodded as he said telepathically, 'I sense a strong electrical presence, Master. It's coming from deeper within the plant.'
That's good news… I said, my heart pounding with anticipation, "Alright, let's move."
*Tmp*
We navigated through the maze-like corridors, battling the occasional stray Electrode and Magnemite that still clung to the plant's fading energy source. Each battle was a warm-up, a reminder of my team's power and resilience. Charizard incinerated the Electrode with a swift Flamethrower.
Scizor sliced through the Magnemites with surgical precision. Dragonite unleashed a devastating Hurricane that shook the entire building. Tyranitar crushed the weaklings under its feet. Heracross held its own.
I smirked seeing my team function. We were ready.
Finally, we reached a large chamber, the heart of the Power Plant. The air here thrummed with raw energy, making my hair stand on end.
In the center of the room, perched atop a dilapidated generator, was Zapdos. The legendary bird was even more magnificent than I had imagined.
Its plumage shimmered with an electric blue, and its eyes crackled with untamed power. Lightning arced from its beak and claws, illuminating the chamber with an eerie glow.
"ZAAAA!!!"
Zapdos let out a deafening screech, a challenge that echoed through the plant. It spread its wings, unleashing a torrent of electricity that sent sparks flying in all directions.
Smiling at the open challenge, I said, my voice barely audible above the din, "So, you were here after all. I've been looking for you."
Good chance as any for my new team member to show his stuff. I tossed a Poké Ball into the air. "Go, Tyranitar!"
*Pop*
The Rock/Dark type materialized with a roar, its massive frame shaking the ground. Tyranitar glared at Zapdos, its eyes burning with primal aggression.
I ordered calmly, "Tyranitar, use Stone Edge!"
*RMBL*
Tyranitar unleashed a barrage of jagged rocks, each one crackling with earth energy. Zapdos, agile and quick, dodged most of the projectiles, but a few managed to clip its wings, causing it to screech in pain, "ZAAA!!"
*Zzzzz*
Zapdos retaliated with a Thunderbolt, a massive surge of electricity that engulfed Tyranitar in a blinding flash. The Rock/Dark type roared again, absorbing the brunt of the attack with its powerful defenses.
But still, I yelled out of concern, "Tyranitar, you okay?"
*BAM*
Tyranitar shook its head, clearing the static from its vision. It slammed its fists against its chest, signaling that it was ready for more.
Good. I smirked as I ordered calmly, "Alright, use Rock Slide!"
*RMBL*
Tyranitar unleashed a cascade of boulders, burying Zapdos under a mountain of rock. The electric bird struggled to free itself, its wings pinned beneath the debris. I had my other Pokémon on standby.
I already got my hands on Alakazam if that Zapdos does anything. But it seems to be struggling against Tyranitar's move… is it that low level to be taken down that easily, or have I trained my Pokémon that highly?
It might be a Legendary Pokémon, but without a Great Trainer to guide them, they're just overpowered creatures in the end. I'm not that little trainer who couldn't capture Mew anymore....
Reaching for my belt and an empty Ultra Ball, I yelled, hurling it, "Now's our chance! Go, Ultra Ball!"
*SMACK*
I hurled the Poké Ball with all my might, striking Zapdos squarely in the chest. The ball bounced once, twice, three times… and then clicked shut.
*BON*
Silence descended upon the chamber. I held my breath, waiting for the ball to shake, to signal that Zapdos was attempting to break free. But it remained still.
I cautiously approached the Poké Ball and picked it up. It felt… heavier than usual. I pressed the button, releasing Zapdos from its temporary confinement.
*Pop*
The electric bird emerged from the Poké Ball, looking weakened but defiant. It glared at me, its eyes filled with a mixture of anger and respect.
I suppose even Legendary Pokémon respect those who are more powerful. I remained calm, eyeing it as I said, extending my hand towards Zapdos, "You're strong. I respect your power. I want you to join my team to help me become even stronger. Strong enough to beat my foes and even that annoying Champion Azure Sky."
Zapdos stared at my hand for a moment, and then its eyes widened, reacting by mentioning his name to it. Then slowly lowered its head. It nudged my hand with its beak, a gesture of acceptance.
It helps with the Badges, I have to easily control them. A surge of excitement coursed through me.
I had done it. I had captured Zapdos, the legendary bird of lightning.
I said proudly, a grin spreading across my face, "Welcome to the team, Zapdos."
Together, we left the Power Plant, leaving the decaying structure behind. As we emerged into the sunlight, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.
I was no longer just striving to be the best. I was striving to be the best I could be, for myself, for my Pokémon, and for the legacy of the Dex Holders.
The road ahead would be long and challenging, but with Charizard, Scizor, Alakazam, Dragonite, Tyranitar, and now Zapdos by my side, I was ready for anything.
The Kanto League would be mine. And after that… who knows what the world next? Because… I'll become the most powerful Pokémon Trainer in the world!
/////
~Azure S. POV~
[Johto Region, Days Later, Route 40 – Route 41]
The salt spray stung my face, a familiar embrace that always signaled adventure. Beside me, riding on Lapras's broad back, stood Pikachu, his electric cheeks crackling with excitement, and Eevee, nestled safely within the pocket of my jacket, her big eyes wide with curiosity.
Along the way, Celebi, ever the enigma, shimmered nearby, her presence a comforting warmth, a silent promise of healing and renewal. Today, we were on a mission.
The path to Cianwood City, a beacon of medical expertise and the home of a Gym known for its mastery of Fighting-type Pokémon, lay before us. The journey wasn't going to be easy. The treacherous waters of Routes 40 and 41 stood between us and our destination.
For this leg of our journey, I'd assembled a team specifically designed to navigate the perils of the sea. I'd carefully considered all Pokémon's strengths and weaknesses, my mind a constant churn of strategic possibilities.
So far, the Water Type Pokémon I've picked they've already been great partners. I shouted, the wind whipping my words away, "Alright, team! Let's get going! Lapras, you lead the way! Pikachu, stay alert! Eevee, keep safe!"
Lapras responded with a deep, resonating call, her smooth, blue back bobbing gently on the waves. Pikachu let out a joyous cry, sending a small spark of electricity into the air.
The initial stretch of Route 40 was relatively calm, the waves rolling lazily beneath us. We sailed along, my heart swelling with a familiar blend of anticipation and gratitude. The sun glinted off the water, mirroring the vibrant hues of the sky, a perfect canvas.
*Rmbl*
Suddenly, a low rumble disrupted the tranquility. I scanned the horizon, my instincts already on high alert. I commanded, "Blastoise, use Hydro Pump, scan the area!"
*SPLASH*
Blastoise unleashed a torrent of water into the air, and I followed the path of the stream. A whirlpool, a swirling vortex of churning water, materialized a short distance ahead.
They were not in harm's way, but better safe than sorry. I ordered swiftly, "Kingdra, keep an eye on Blastoise and Lapras!"
The whirlpools of Route 41 were notorious, a constant threat to those who dared to navigate these waters unaware of the dangers. They could drag a vessel—or a Pokémon—under, trapping them in a watery grave.
Hence, the reason why I reshuffled my rotation for capable and strong Water Types, I raised for safety. I warned my Pokémon cautiously, "Lapras, carefully! We need to steer clear of those whirlpools. Go slow and steady."
Lapras, wise and experienced, understood the gravity of the situation. She moved with deliberate precision, her powerful flippers propelling us forward with a pace that ensured a safe distance from the churning vortex.
*Splash*
We navigated the first few whirlpools without incident, the tension in the air palpable. The sun continued its descent, painting the sky in fiery oranges and deep purples.
I said, my voice barely audible over the wind brushing past us, "We need to keep moving. We are almost there."
With no disasters inbound, we safely maneuvered around the whirlpools in Route 41 and around the Whirl Islands. My gaze lingered on the Whirl Islands, recalling that Lugia's home, as a thought did cross my mind to capture it.
But then what? I don't mind having a Legendary, but I prefer one that would willingly choose me as it will be easier to bond with...
As I thought, this, a brief image of Articuno, did pop in my mind as it looked at me one time, seemingly hesitating as we departed. Hmm… it might do me some good to see if Articuno is willing to be my Pokémon.
And with Blaine having his arm healed, Mewtwo is or should be in the wild. Although… a part of me wants to see this Mewtwo become the one in the movie down the line, or capture it and show it the joys in the world.
But I shook my head at the idea for now. First, become someone truly strong to even consider capturing Mewtwo, besides that, I'll have to plan when I battle Chuck the Fighting Type Gym Leader on which Pokémon to choose…
/////
A/N: Update for you all that the Boxes and MC's Rotation have been updated. You'll see what Pokémon he'll bring into the Hoenn Region first, along with a few other Pokémon kept in Oak's Ranch for future adventures.