Chapter 23 - Chapter 21: Training Plans and Poisonous Suprises

[A/N: Hey guys, apologies for disappearing last week. Got sick :P but I have returned once more, and my schedule has returned to normal. So, looking forward to seeing releases once more on Monday/Friday]

Two weeks have passed since Tyson's encounter with Draven, and in that time, Pupitar has adapted to its new locomotion. They've participated in daily battles at the local arena, accelerating this adaptation. Presently, Tyson, Pupitar, and Gligar are relaxing in the backyard after their routine training. The topic of today's training Today both Bertha and Shane, were supervising today's session, offered Tyson guidance on Pupitar's care and Gligar's growth. "Ensure you polish its shell daily. Typically, Pupitar's don't need food; they subsist on the energy accumulated from their previous evolution. The lengthy interval between Larvitar and Tyranitar exists because Pupitar uses this stored energy to fortify its body. There's a belief that the longer the evolution from Pupitar to Tyranitar takes, the stronger it becomes," Shane explained. 

"I expected as much, but doesn't that mean my battles are depleting its energy?" Tyson inquired. "Well, yes and no," came the reply. "Pupitar always has a reserve of energy for combat. Consider the power you're using as a backup generator; it's fine to use it for some time, but eventually, it's best to let it recharge" Shane explain earning a nod from Tyson. "Now, regarding your plans for Pupitar, it spends most of its time training Sandstorm. It's showing great improvement, and it currently has a good foundation for future growth. With Stomping Tantrum, Ancient Power, and Outrage being its preferred offensive moves. Regarding defensive moves, Pupitar has recently learnt Iron Defense, which is excellent for enhancing physical defense, as well as Dragon Dance to boost its power and speed. With capabilities for attack, defense, evasion, and controlling sandstorms, Pupitar essentially functions as an all-rounder," Bertha explained. 

To the side, Pupitar let out a proud huff, earning a scoff from Gligar. "Now for you, young lady," Bertha said, turning to Gligar, who flinched. "Your move set still needs work; all your current moves are offensive, except for Toxic, which you've just learned. According to Tyson's explanation, you're meant to be a defender for his team, a wall that's hard to pass and a disruptor of the enemy's flow. The next move we'll be teaching you is Spikes, which will form the basis of the move I had planned for you: Toxic Spikes. Learning these two moves should take at least a month, after which we can begin working on your next set of hazards". Listening to his grandmother's analysis, Tyson nodded in agreement. He intended to employ a strategy from his previous world once Gligar evolved into Gliscor. For now, as a Gligar, his plan was to concentrate on establishing hazards and disrupting their opponents. 

Upon hearing about all the work ahead, Gligar felt disheartened. She had been training her stamina for the past few months and had just recently learnt Toxic, but she had only battled Pupitar. Noticing Gligar's dismay, Tyson reassured her, "Don't worry, graduation is next June. After that, we'll head to Coronet Academy to register. You'll have plenty of time to battle on the way there. For now, we need to build a solid foundation for your future moves." Gligar nodded at Tyson's words, yet her mood remained downcast. Tyson then proposed, "How about this? For every move you master, I'll prepare your favorite meal: 'Roasted Pidgey". This perked Gligar up instantly, and she smiled broadly. On the sidelines, Bertha and Shane chuckled lightly at Gligar's reaction.

Tyson then turned to Pupitar, "You've learned to shape the sandstorm into a vortex through practice and your recent evolution. Our aim is for you to control the sandstorm as if it were your own limbs. However, before we achieve that, we must ensure you can do more than simply scatter sand," to which Pupitar nodded in agreement. Bertha added, "And I have just the idea for that. Let's work on Pupitar's Rock Throw. With sufficient practice, it could evolve into Rock Slide. Given Pupitar's proficiency in Stomping Tantrum, he might even master Stone Edge or Earthquake." Tyson's eyes sparkled at his grandmother's suggestion, "That's perfect! With Rock Slide, we'll gain another long-range attack, and with Stone Edge, Pupitar will indeed become a formidable opponent."

After confirming the training plans for both Larvitar and Gligar, Bertha turned to Tyson and said, "Now then, onto you, young man," capturing Tyson's immediate attention. "Your daily physical training has been progressing smoothly, and your skills and knowledge as a breeder are approaching the level of a Novice Breeder. This is also good progress. Regarding your knowledge of Ground Type Pokémon, you have surpassed the basics and are now studying battle tactics, biology, and training methods for various species at an intermediate level. Tyson nodded, his smile conveying acknowledgment that beyond training and studying, his time was scarce for other pursuits. "I must have made progress; it would be disappointing otherwise," he reflected."

Once you reach the level of a Novice Breeder, make sure to take the breeder exam when you leave town. The exam takes place in Eterna City," Shane said. Tyson interjected, "Didn't you say I had to be as good as grandpa before I could leave, grandma?" This elicited an embarrassed huff from Bertha. She had planned to have Shane train Tyson to that level, but despite Tyson's talent and photographic memory, there was only so much Shane could impart in a year. The knowledge and skills required for an Intermediate Breeder were not easily transferred. Bertha estimated that Tyson would attain the level of a Novice Breeder by year's end. As the family's discussion carried on, night quickly descended. The subsequent days passed in a blur as winter drew near.

(Time: December - 10 Years before Ash's journey)

It was now winter and white snow blanketed ground changing the green Celestic Town. During this time Tyson was seated in class. Tyson and Eric were discussing the winter holiday. It seemed that this world celebrated Christmas too, though the story included Delibird. "What are your plans for Christmas this year?" inquired Tyson. "Not much, just having some family over from out of town for a gathering my parents are hosting. You and your grandparents should come," Eric suggested. Tyson smiled at the invitation and responded, "Sure, but don't forget to invite Sophia, or she'll never let you live it down for leaving her out," prompting a groan from Eric, "Yeah, yeah, I know."

As classes ended, the Christmas break began. Tyson and Eric left their class and joined Sophia to tell her about Eric's family gathering as they headed to the town battlefield for Tyson's practice. This time Trapinch tagged along to join in on the fun. Tyson, having visited several times in the past month, had become a familiar face, and many were eager to challenge him. "What's the training plan for today?" Eric inquired. "Simple, today Gligar will battle," Tyson responded, surprising them both. It was unexpected since Tyson had never used Gligar in a live battle after capturing her. "So, it's Gligar's turn, huh? I want to see that," said Eric, as they arrived and were greeted by many, including Derek, an old man who often assisted young trainers. Excited to aid with a newly trained Pokémon, Derek accepted Tyson's challenge.

Standing in the challenger's box, Tyson released Gligar onto the field. With a burst of light, Gligar materialized, hovering briefly before settling on the ground. A look of excitement could be seen on her face as her eyes darted around the field. Just the day before, Tyson had expressed his desire to test her moves and abilities in combat, to which Gligar had eagerly consented. "Alright, girl, you've got your wish. It's time for your first battle. Let's surprise everyone," Tyson said. Gligar responded with a wide grin and an enthusiastic "Gli Gli" [You bet].

Positioned in the opposite corner, Old Derek chuckled lightly. "It's good to see your Pokémon is so enthusiastic. Now, let's get this battle started!" he exclaimed, tossing his Pokéball forward. With a brilliant flash, a figure emerged. The Pokémon Old Derek summoned was a plant-like creature shrouded in blue vines concealing everything but its face and legs. The vines near its face were parted revealing a shadowy face, illuminated only by the light glinting off two white eyes. 'A Tangela, huh? This is going to be an excellent first battle,' Tyson thought to himself."

Well then, young man, I'll give you the first move," Old Derek said, to which Tyson replied, "Sure thing, just don't regret it." Turning to Gligar, Tyson commanded, "Toxic Spikes!" Gligar sprang into action, channeling both Poison and Ground energy to create toxic spikes that hovered around its body before scattering across the field. "Interesting move. I'm guessing you want to restrict this old man's movements with those spikes. Sadly, things won't go as you intend. Now, Old Green, use Ingrain!" Immediately, Tangela thrust several vines into the ground, anchoring itself in place. 'So, he's anchored himself with Ingrain, huh? That move will gradually restore Tangela's stamina and health after it takes damage, turning this into a battle of attrition,' Tyson thought.

"Let's get him to jump use Toxic" Tyson commanded as Gligar's cheeks puffed before she spat out a purple liquid ball which hissed as it travelled towards Tangela. Seeing this Old Derek flinched "Old Green use your Vine Whip to defend" and following his command Tangela quickly began stretching its extra vines out to lash against the oncoming poison. As the vine made contact with the poison Tangela let out a pained groan as the poison ball shattered its remains falling to the ground leaving several holes that released smoke and a foul smell. "Nice job defending but it looks like Tangela suffered a bit their" Tyson commented.

"That it does, Tyson... well played," Old Derek responded. Although Tangela avoided being severely poisoned by Gligar, it was still afflicted with poison, nonetheless. "Time to end this," Tyson declared, commanding "Venoshock," which caused Old Derek's eyes to widen. Gligar's eyes immediately glowed a fierce purple as it fixed its gaze on Tangela. The now-poisoned Tangela began to shiver and thrash in pain. "Old Green!" Derek shouted, trying to get his partner's attention, but before Tangela could recover, Tyson ordered, "Finish it," and Gligar released another blast of Venoshock, concluding the battle.

As Tangela laid on its back, a hint of purple was visible on its face. Seeing this Old Derek was about to return it to its Pokéball when suddenly Sophia called out. "Wait, give it this," she said, handing Old Derek an Antidote. "Why, thank you, my dear," Old Derek replied, as he gratefully took the Antidote and began tending to Tangela. Tyson expressed his gratitude to Old Derek for the battle. As they moved to the side of the battlefield, Eric inquired, "Say, Tyson, when did Gligar learn Venoshock?" Tyson smirked and answered, "A week ago," to the surprise of both Eric and Sophia. He elaborated, "A week ago, we wrapped up Gligar's Toxic Spike practice with Gligar surprising both grandma and Gliscor by quickly picking up on Venoshock. Although Special Attacks are not Gligar's specialty it was a good Suprise. Too bad she had to remain still to use the move at the moment".

"Why?" Sophia questions to which Tyson replied "She still hasn't mastered the move, it's at best used to surprise our opponents. This battle was mostly to test its power in a real battle. Still grandma said that Gligar is a quick learned and has great talent" Tyson noted. Upon hearing the praise, Gligar, perched proudly on Tyson's shoulder, puffed out her chest. Seeing this Eric and Sophia chuckled. Trapinch, on the ground however, beamed and commended Gligar for her hard work. As their conversation continued, the sun began to set, and eventually, the group dispersed, with Tyson heading home. At home, Tyson and his Pokémon relaxed while he shared news of Eric's family Christmas party with his grandparents. Shane was keen on attending, but Bertha had to decline; as starting tomorrow, she would be occupied as a new contender had emerged to challenge the Elite Four. Annually, following The Lily of the Valley Conference, the victor is granted the opportunity to contest the league's Elite Four, aiming to become the new champion. Currently ranked second among the Elite Four, it was Bertha's turn to confront the challenger.

Disheartened by his grandmother's absence for Christmas, Tyson's rare pout did not escape Bertha's notice. "No need for that, sport. I'll be back for your birthday, I swear," Bertha remarked, lifting Tyson's spirits. Amidst the year's events, Tyson had overlooked his approaching birthday. "Alright, grandma, just make sure to kick that challenger's butt," Tyson replied, to which Bertha nodded in agreement. As the day went on, Bertha, Tyson and his Pokémon commenced their evening training. "Since I'll be away for a few days, I'll help outline the next phase of Gligar's training," Bertha said, receiving a nod from Tyson. "Gligar has already mastered Spikes and Toxic Spikes, so the next technique she will learn is Stealth Rock. Given her proficiency with Spikes, this should be straightforward for her," Bertha explained.

"With Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Stealth Rock, you can set the battlefield and disrupt the opponent's flow. Once you've mastered these moves, we'll enhance Gligar's offense and defense," Bertha concluded. Gligar, hearing this, grew excited at the prospect of having more attack options. "Seems like she's on board," Tyson remarked with a chuckle. "I'd hoped she would be. Pupitar's training is showing results too," Bertha responded, to which Tyson added, "Yeah, he's finally learnt Rock Slide." After a pause, Tyson said, "Iron Defense can strengthen Pupitar's defense, but I'd like to teach it Protect." He had researched online and discovered that Protect could block powerful attacks, just like in the games. "That's a sound plan; Hippowdon can help him learn Protect," Bertha replied with a smile, pleased with her grandson's idea. With their training plan set, Tyson and his Pokémon pressed on with their regimen.