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As the evolved form of Horsea, Seadra was undoubtedly more powerful, its body covered in sharp spines and venomous barbs.
Its coiled tail and prism-shaped snout were distinct features that set it apart from its pre-evolved form.
According to Pokémon researchers, Seadra's dorsal fins could paralyze anyone with the slightest touch, and at night, it would tightly coil its tail around coral to avoid being swept away by ocean currents while sleeping.
With its compact and streamlined body, Seadra had exceptional mobility in water. By comparison, Blastoise was significantly larger and bulkier, appearing much less agile.
However, Blastoise had its own advantages its powerful mouth and twin cannons allowed it to fire three streams of water simultaneously. While it couldn't match Seadra's precision, it made up for this shortcoming with volume.
Perhaps wanting to demonstrate the Orange League's distinct style to the Indigo Champion, Cissy called over her younger brother. "Senta, bring out the bubble machine. Let's show them what the Mikan Gym is all about."
Senta eagerly complied, starting up the machine. Moments later, six or seven ping-pong-ball-sized bubbles floated into the air.
Before Cissy even gave the command, Seadra reacted. Thin, needle-like streams of water shot from its mouth, popping the bubbles with pinpoint accuracy.
Pop. Pop. Pop.
Kai clapped in admiration.
"Short, quick, and incredibly precise!" he said. Though Seadra's Water Gun streams were significantly thinner and shorter than usual, the control and accuracy on display were undeniable.
It was clear Seadra had undergone meticulous training to refine its technique to such a degree.
Other trainers might focus on making their Pokémon's moves bigger, stronger, or longer-lasting. Few would think to go in the opposite direction and hone their precision to this level.
"Impressive," Kai admitted. "My Blastoise might not be able to match that level of finesse, but that doesn't mean I'm going to give up so easily."
Hearing Kai openly acknowledge his Pokémon's shortcomings, Cissy raised an eyebrow in surprise before smiling smugly. "So even the Indigo Champion has areas where he's not as strong. Looks like this 'small-time' gym leader has some unique skills after all."
Her tone carried a hint of pride, as though she felt Kai's reputation might not match the reality.
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The two Pokémon floated on opposite ends of the pool, poised for the match to begin. At Cissy's signal, a countdown echoed through the gym.
"Ready… set… go!"
A narrow jet of water shot from Seadra's mouth, while Blastoise fired a thicker, more powerful stream. The air filled with the sharp clang of empty cans being struck and knocked into the air.
Kai observed quietly as the match unfolded.
Unlike Seadra's delicate and rapid-fire streams, Blastoise's Water Gun lacked precision. However, its sheer force allowed it to knock cans flying even with glancing blows.
Although not as refined as Seadra's technique, the brute strength of Blastoise's attacks ensured it remained competitive.
As Seadra's speed increased, Blastoise began to fall behind. Sensing the shift, Kai issued a command: "Blastoise, use Multi-Water Gun!"
Blastoise's twin cannons fired simultaneously, creating three streams of water in a triangular formation. The wide coverage allowed it to hit more cans with each volley.
Pop. Pop. Clang.
Senta protested loudly from the sidelines. "Cissy, he's cheating! He's using three Water Guns at once!"
Cissy frowned but said nothing. She couldn't deny that the move was within the rules. Blastoise's twin cannons were a natural part of its physiology, and no rules had been set regarding how many streams of water could be used.
With its newfound strategy, Blastoise quickly caught up. By the time both Pokémon knocked down the last can, the result was clearly a tie.
Cissy sighed almost imperceptibly before flashing a smile. "Your Blastoise did well. Looks like this round ended in a draw."
Though she maintained her composure, there was a hint of frustration in her voice. Knocking down cans was one of Seadra's specialities, and she had been confident it would secure an easy win.
A tie was not something she had anticipated.
For Kai, however, the draw was a pleasant surprise. He had prepared himself for defeat, knowing Blastoise wasn't suited to such precision-based tasks.
Yet, despite the odds, his partner had risen to the challenge and exceeded expectations.
As Cissy pressed a button on a remote, the sound of gears turning filled the gym. A section of the wall began to slide open, revealing a breathtaking view of the ocean.
Gentle waves lapped at the shore, and palm fronds swayed in the sea breeze. The fresh air invigorated everyone, lifting their spirits.
"For the next challenge, we'll move on to a game of accuracy with moving targets. Seadra, give them a demonstration."
As before, Cissy let Seadra perform a quick demonstration to explain the rules. A machine in the corner whirred to life, launching a red disc into the sky.
Seadra tracked the flying target with laser focus, then fired a Water Gun. The disc shattered mid-air, scattering fragments across the ground.
Pop. Pop.
Kai clapped again.
"Clean and precise your Seadra is exceptionally well-trained!" he praised.
Cissy tilted her chin slightly, pride evident in her expression. "Moving targets are much harder than stationary ones. If you lose focus for even a moment, you'll miss your chance. This is the second round are you ready?"
Kai grinned, glancing at Blastoise. "We're ready."
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