Chapter 289: Fortree City [Bonus]
~Third POV~
[Hoenn Region, Later, Fortree City]
The humid air of the Hoenn region clung to Azure like a second skin, a stark contrast to the crisp, familiar breezes of Kanto. He stood at the entrance of Fortree City, admiring the view, a place that felt less like a town and more like a vibrant, overgrown secret whispered by the ancient trees.
Perched high amongst their branches, wooden platforms formed the very foundation of this arboreal metropolis. It was a welcome change, a breath of untamed wilderness after the structured intensity of his gym battles and league tournaments. Azure offered a fond smile to his two most constant companions.
Pikachu, his loyal electric mouse, crackled with anticipation, his cheeks sparking brighter with every rustle of the leaves. Beside him, Eevee, ever curious and nimble, twitched her ears, taking in the symphony of chirps, scuttles, and rustling that defined Fortree.
Azure mused, his voice a low rumble that carried a hint of well-earned pride, "Well, Eevee, Pikachu. Fortree City. Feels like we've stepped into a whole new world, doesn't it?"
Pikachu chittered in agreement, a flurry of electric energy. Eevee let out a soft whine, nudging Azure's hand with her head.
The sheer proximity to nature was palpable. The scent of damp earth, blooming flowers, and the musky aroma of unseen Pokémon filled the air. It was a far cry from the polished arenas and bustling city centers he was accustomed to.
His Poké Balls, nestled securely in his belt, felt like miniature worlds waiting to be unleashed. Each one a partner, a friend, a testament to his journey.
Fortree City itself was a marvel of organic architecture. Houses and shops were built directly into the trees, connected by rickety bridges and winding walkways.
Waterfalls cascaded down, their spray a refreshing mist. Wild Pokémon were not a rarity but a common sight in the city, flitting through the canopy or peeking out from behind moss-covered branches.
It was a town that embraced the wild, a stark contrast to the controlled environments Azure had grown accustomed to. Azure admitted honestly, a genuine smile gracing his lips, "This place is certainly… different."
He appreciated the raw, unadulterated connection to nature. It was a quality he'd always strived to cultivate in his training, a balance between strategic might and the primal instincts of his Pokémon.
But Fortree City wasn't just a picturesque retreat. It was also home to the next Gym Leader, a challenge Azure had been eagerly anticipating.
As he explored the unique town, his mind was already whirring, a familiar spark of strategic thought igniting within him. He needed to find a way to hone his team's skills, to push them beyond their current limits, especially in this new environment.
The thought of the Gym battle loomed, but it was the journey to it that truly occupied his mind. He needed experience, not just for himself, but for every single Pokémon under his care…
He paused, leaning against a thick, moss-covered tree trunk, watching a flock of Wingull soar overhead. A grin, broad and confident, spread across Azure's face.
An idea had taken root, a rather audacious one, but perfectly suited to his current situation. It was a plan that would not only benefit his Pokémon but also create a spectacle. He decided to sleep on it, letting the hum of the forest lull him into a restful slumber.
/////
[Hoenn Region, Next Day, Fortree City – Training Grounds]
The next morning, the sun dappled through the leaves, painting the wooden structures of Fortree City in warm hues. Azure, refreshed and energized, made his way to the bustling town square.
*Tap*
With a few quick taps on his Arc Phone, he was online, accessing the Trainer Website, a popular platform for trainers to connect, trade, and, in Azure's case, issue challenges. He crafted his post carefully, a public notice that was sure to turn heads.
*BEEP*
*BEEP*
Not only had he sent his challenge… he got multiple replies as he looked at the message he created for himself.
[From Pokémon Master:
CHALLENGER AT FORTREE CITY IS OFFERING A REWARD!
Experienced Trainer seeks formidable opponents for practice battles in Fortree City. All Pokémon tiers welcome. The trainer who can defeat me will walk away with 500,000 Poke Dollars! Serious inquiries only. Location: Fortree City Training Grounds (details to follow). Come test your mettle!]
He hit send, a thrill of anticipation coursing through him, issuing his challenge. The response was almost immediate.
Within minutes, notifications began pinging on his Arc Phone. Online forums buzzed with speculation. The name Azure Sky, though relatively unknown in Hoenn, carried a certain weight from his Kanto league victories.
And the prize money? 500,000 Poke Dollars was a life-changing sum for many aspiring trainers wanting to make a quick buck.
The allure of the reward, combined with the challenge of facing an "experienced trainer," was irresistible. Trainers from nearby towns and even those exploring Hoenn began to converge on Fortree City, their faces alight with a mixture of excitement and avarice.
The Fortree City Training Grounds, a clearing just outside the main city accessible by a series of rope bridges, quickly became a focal point. By midday, a respectable crowd had gathered.
They were a motley assortment of trainers, young and old, seasoned and novice, all eager for a chance at glory, or at least a substantial payday. The air crackled not just with the energy of numerous Pokémon, but with the palpable buzz of anticipation from the onlookers.
Azure stood at the edge of the clearing, his Pikachu perched on his shoulder, Eevee trotting faithfully beside him. He surveyed the growing crowd, a calm, assessing gaze that belied the whirlwind of strategic thought within.
He knew this was it, the perfect opportunity. Azure's voice, amplified by a small handheld microphone, cut through the chatter, "Alright, everyone! Thank you for coming. As you know, I'm here to polish my team, and I'm offering a generous reward to those who can prove their mettle. The rules are simple: standard single battle, no items in battle, and you can use any Pokémon you choose. When you're ready, step forward. I'll be taking challengers one by one. And remember, the prize is 500,000 Poke Dollars for anyone who can defeat me."
A chorus of cheers and excited murmurs erupted from the crowd. The first challenger, a young woman with a determined glint in her eye, stepped forward, holding a Poké Ball with a confident grip.
She declared proudly, her voice ringing with youthful bravado, "I'll be the first, User Name Pokémon Master! My Tropius is ready!"
Azure nodded, a slight inclination of his head. Holding a Poké Ball in his hand, he replied eagerly, "Excellent. Manetric, you're up!"
*Pop*
Manetric appeared from its Poké Ball, landing nimbly on the training ground, its tail flashing. The crowd leaned in, eager to witness the spectacle.
This wasn't just a trainer seeking gym badges; this was a masterclass in battle, a high-stakes opportunity for trainers to learn and potentially earn a fortune. The first battle was a swift and decisive victory for Azure.
Manetric, trained under Azure, who had years of experience with Electric Type Pokémon and his innate speed, dodged Tropius's Leaf Storm and countered with a powerful Thunderbolt, leaving the Grass/Flying-type Pokémon unable to battle.
A nearby professional referee that Azure paid announced, "Tropius is unable to battle! The winner is Pokémon Master!"
The crowd gasped and then erupted into applause. The young woman, though disappointed, managed a respectful nod. She admitted, returning her Tropius, "You're good… But I'll be back prepared to defeat you."
As she retreated, the next challenger stepped forward. A burly man with a gruff demeanor. He boasted proudly, tossing his Poké Ball into the air, "My Rhyhorn is tougher than your electric mutt!"
*Pop*
Rhyhorn appeared as Azure recalled Manetric. Azure called out, "Time to game on! Shelgon, I choose you!"
*Pop*
The armored dragon Pokémon emerged, its rocky shell a formidable defense. The battle against Rhyhorn was a trial of endurance.
Rhyhorn's Rock Throw and Bulldoze hammered against Shelgon's defenses, but the dragon's sturdy shell absorbed the blows. Shelgon, in turn, chipped away Rhyhorn's health with Dragon Breath and Hydro Pump…
*Shinng*
Finally, a well-placed Dragon Claw sealed the victory. The referee declared, "Rhyhorn is unable to battle! The winner is Pokémon Master!"
The crowd was a mix of awe and admiration. Azure was living up to his reputation, his Indigo victories clearly not a fluke. He was battling with a refined precision, each move seemingly calculated, yet executed with a fluidity that suggested deep understanding and trust with his Pokémon.
The day wore on, filled with a steady stream of challengers. Azure rotated his Pokémon strategically, ensuring each member of his extensive team got a chance to shine and gain valuable experience.
He sent out Golduck against a Golem, its Psychic and Hydro Pump proving effective. Manectric's speed and Electric-type attacks overwhelmed a Fearow. Crawdaunt's sheer power and adaptability took down a powerful Machamp.
Each battle, regardless of the outcome, was a learning experience. Azure observed his opponents, noting their tactics, their Pokémon's strengths and weaknesses. He also paid close attention to his own Pokémon, their reactions, their stamina, and any subtle improvements in their techniques.
He fielded his Shiny Blaziken against a strong Infernape, the two fire-types engaging in a breathtaking display of speed and power. The crowd roared as Blaziken unleashed a devastating Sky Uppercut, a testament to its immense training.
Even the seemingly unstoppable Slaking was brought out, though Azure used it judiciously, aware of its Truant ability. When it was active, Slaking's sheer brute force was a sight to behold, capable of ending battles in a single turn.
There were close calls. A particularly skilled trainer with a swift Ninjask managed to push Azure's Ninetales to its limits, forcing Azure to employ a risky strategy involving Will-O-Wisp and Extrasensory to turn the tide.
Milotic's graceful Hydro Pump and Mirror Coat proved invaluable against a powerful special attacker. Swampert, a newbie turning veteran of many battles, showcased its balanced strength against a ground-type threat.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the clearing, Azure had faced a dozen challengers, defeating them all. The initial excitement from the crowd had morphed into a respectful silence, punctuated by gasps of admiration.
They were witnessing a master at work. Azure, though outwardly calm, could feel the fatigue in his own body, a reflection of his Pokémon's exertion.
He knew the importance of pacing and ensuring his team wasn't pushed too far, too soon. The final challenger of the day was a young boy, no older than ten, clutching a single Poké Ball.
He looked nervous, his eyes wide as he surveyed the remaining crowd. He stammered, his voice barely a whisper, "I… I want to challenge you, sir..."
A wave of murmuring went through the crowd. Many scoffed, deeming the boy too young and inexperienced. But Azure's gaze softened.
He remembered his own beginnings, the same burning desire to test himself. Azure said calmly, his voice gentle, "Of course. What's your Pokémon?"
The boy held up his Poké Ball as he declared shyly, "My partner. Combusken."
A collective sigh of relief from some, but a flicker of caution from others. Combusken, while not fully evolved, was a capable fighter.
Azure smiled. Adjusting his cap, he prepared his next choice as he replied coolly, "Alright, young man. Let's see what your Combusken can do. Gardevoir, let's go."
*Pop*
The elegant psychic Pokémon appeared, radiating a calm aura. The boy, emboldened by Azure's kindness, took a deep breath.
The boy took a deep breath and ordered, "Combusken, Ember!"
*Sssss*
The small flame shot towards Gardevoir, but the psychic type easily dodged. Azure countered easily, "Gardevoir, Agile Style Confusion!"
*Shiii*
The force of the telekinetic attack sent Combusken staggering back. The boy's eyes widened in alarm as he ordered, "Combusken! Quick Attack!"
*Zooom*
Combusken surged forward, attempting to close the distance. Gardevoir, with practiced ease, unleashed a Confusion Sphere that struck Combusken squarely, sending it to the ground.
*Smack*
The referee announced loudly in a professional voice, "Combusken is unable to battle! The winner is Pokémon Master!"
The boy looked crestfallen, tears welling in his eyes. Azure immediately walked over, kneeling beside him.
Azure said softly, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder in a gentle voice, "Hey. Don't be sad. You have a strong partner. Your Combusken fought bravely."
He then turned to the crowd. With a wide grin on his face, he declared boldly, "And to all of you who challenged me today, thank you. You gave my Pokémon invaluable experience, and I hope you learned something as well. As for the challenges… the prize will continue to the next day! Even if you lost today, I hope you learned something from this. It's not about individual victory, but about shared growth."
A ripple of surprise, then appreciative murmurs, spread through the crowd. Azure wasn't just a skilled trainer; he was a magnanimous one.
The boy looked up at Azure, a small smile replacing his tears as he said helplessly, "Thank you, sir."
Azure replied coolly, returning Gardevoir into her Poké Ball, "You're welcome. Keep training hard. Someday, you'll be a great trainer."
As the crowd dispersed, some chattering excitedly about another chance to earn the prize money, others discussing the battles they'd witnessed, Azure felt a profound sense of satisfaction.
His extensive team, from the mighty Metagross to the agile Sceptile, had all participated, each contributing to the day's success. They had faced diverse opponents, pushed their limits, and emerged stronger, more experienced.
Pikachu chittered happily on his shoulder, and Eevee nudged his hand, her tail wagging. Azure scratched them both behind the ears as he murmured, "Good work today, you two. And to everyone else."
He patted his Poké Balls as they shook in recognition. The setting sun cast a warm, golden glow over Fortree City. The air, still humid, now carried the scent of victory and the quiet hum of satisfied Pokémon.
With that, he began to leave the training ground for the Pokémon Center to have his Pokémon healed. Unaware, he made some ripples with his act…
/////
A/N: Reach the goal of 200 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!
Also side note do you want the MC to have a relationship with one girl or multiple Harem path? Just asking out of curosity sake.