The roar of the crowd was deafening, yet Alexander barely registered it. Standing in the red tower, high above the battlefield, he took a deep breath, his fingers brushing against the worn Poké Balls at his belt. His heart was pounding, but not from nerves. No, this was excitement. This was what he'd fought for. Every grueling battle, every sleepless night training, every setback had led to this moment—the quarter-finals of the Indigo League. Just Three More matches and he would be closer to his dream than he ever could have dreamed off.
He could not believe how much time has passed since that fateful day four years ago. When everything went wrong, leaving him alone, with nothing but the kindness of strangers to survive. The voice of the announcer faded into the background as his mind returned to that day.
The streets of Viridian City were bathed in the golden light of a late afternoon sun, casting long shadows from the rows of quaint houses and the occasional Pokémon playing in their yards. Twelve-year-old Alexander walked a few steps behind his parents, his excitement barely contained as he tried to match their pace. Today was the day of the annual Viridian Festival, and the anticipation in the air was infectious.
"Come on, Alex! You don't want to miss the opening ceremony, do you?" his father called, turning back to grin at him.
"I'm coming, I'm coming!" Alexander replied, quickening his steps. His messy brown hair bounced as he caught up to them, his warm brown eyes shining with eagerness. "Do you think we'll see any famous Trainers?"
His mother smiled her tone indulgent. "It's possible. A lot of Trainers come to the festival to show off their Pokémon. Maybe you'll even meet someone who inspires you."
"I already know who inspires me," Alexander said with confidence. "It's going to be me! I'll be the one everyone looks up to someday."
His father laughed, ruffling Alexander's hair. "That's the spirit. But first, let's enjoy the festival."
As they approached the festival grounds, the sounds of laughter, music, and the occasional Pokémon cry filled the air. Booths lined the streets, offering everything from snacks to souvenirs. Trainers and their Pokémon wandered among the crowds, their camaraderie adding to the lively atmosphere. Alexander's gaze darted around, trying to take in everything at once.
"Look over there!" he exclaimed, pointing to a Trainer with a majestic Arcanine. Its orange fur gleamed in the sunlight, and Alexander couldn't help but imagine himself riding on one someday.
"It's beautiful," his mother agreed, her tone warm. "Maybe one day, you'll have a Pokémon like that."
"I will," Alexander declared, his voice filled with determination. "I'll have the strongest team ever!"
They continued through the festival, stopping occasionally to admire performances or try a treat from one of the food stalls. A group of Trainers was showcasing their Pokémon in a friendly battle, and Alexander watched in awe as a Butterfree executed a dazzling Psybeam that lit up the crowd's cheers.
"One day, that'll be me up there," Alexander said softly, almost to himself. His parents exchanged a glance, their smiles tinged with amusement.
As they neared the main stage, the festival's opening ceremony was about to begin. Alexander's excitement bubbled over as he craned his neck to see. The Viridian Festival wasn't just a celebration; it was a glimpse into the world he longed to be part of—a world of Pokémon battles and adventure.
His father placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Enjoy the moment, Alex. The future will come soon enough."
Alexander nodded his heart swelling with excitement
The festival quickly turned Alexander's into a blob of boundless energy and knack for getting into trouble. At one point, he was chasing a mischievous Meowth that had snatched a piece of candy from his pocket, weaving through the crowd and narrowly avoiding toppling a stand of Poké Balls. His victorious shout rang out as he finally retrieved the candy, only for the Meowth to swipe at him and dart away.
Later, Alexander found himself face-to-face with a Snorlax lounging near a food stall. His curiosity got the better of him as he reached out to touch the sleeping giant, only for it to stir and let out a deep, rumbling snore that sent him scrambling backward, much to the amusement of onlookers.
At another stall, groups of energetic Pichu's were putting on a small show. Alexander couldn't resist joining in, clapping along to their antics. One particularly bold Pichu hopped onto his shoulder, sparking tiny jolts that made his hair stand on end.
"Alex, what did I say about staying out of trouble?" his mother chided gently as she helped him smooth his hair down.
"It wasn't trouble," Alexander replied with a sheepish grin. "It was fun!"
The highlight of his escapades came when he tried to help a struggling Magikarp back into a small pond. With a mighty splash, the Magikarp flailed, drenching Alexander from head to toe. He stood there dripping, scowling at the crowd that had gathered and were laughing at him.
The joyful atmosphere of the Viridian Festival was abruptly shattered by the sound of shouting and the hiss of Pokémon being released from their balls. Smoke filled the air as explosions echoed through the streets, sending festival-goers scrambling for safety. Alexander's laughter faded, replaced by confusion and fear as he clung to his father's arm.
"Team Rocket!" someone yelled, their voice cutting through the chaos. "They're attacking the festival!"
Alexander's eyes widened as figures clad in black uniforms and emblazoned with a bold red "R" surged into the crowd. They released their Pokémon—Raticate, Koffing, and Zubat—to wreak havoc among the festival-goers. People screamed as the Pokémon lunged at them, scattering stalls and upending tables in their wake.
"Stay close, Alex!" his father said urgently, pulling him close as his mother looked around for a place to take cover.
"What do they want?" Alexander asked, his voice trembling. His heart pounded as he stared at the chaos unfolding before him.
"Pokémon," his mother replied grimly. "They're here to steal Pokémon."
Nearby, a young Trainer was desperately trying to fend off a Team Rocket grunt who was attempting to take his Growlithe. The Trainer's attempts were futile as the grunt's Drowzee used Hypnosis, leaving the Growlithe defenseless.
Alexander felt his stomach twist. He wanted to help, but his feet felt rooted to the ground. His father knelt down, looking him in the eye.
"Alex, listen to me," he said his voice calm despite the fear in his eyes.
"Alexander Blaze, Ladies and Gentleman." The announcer voice suddenly rang in his ears as he wrenched his mind free from those memories. No, He needed to focus. He was strong. He was not helpless.
In. Out. In. Out
He followed the mantra as he regulates his breath, He needed to focus. He owed it to his pokemon, to give his best.
And that was what he was goanna do, give his best.
The stadium lights dimmed momentarily before a spotlight illuminated the announcer's booth. The crowd hushed eager to hear the next announcement. The voice of the announcer echoed through the arena, electrifying the air.
"And now, ladies and gentlemen, Standing in the opposite tower," the announcer continued, "is a rising star in the world of Pokémon battles. At 21 years old, he's already made a name for himself as a Rock-type specialist, following in the footsteps of his Father and Grandfather, the Pewter City Gym Leaders!"
A spotlight illuminated the opposing tower, revealing a tall, confident figure. His spiky brown hair was unmistakable; he exuded a calm, calculated demeanor.
"Please give a roaring welcome to Brock Harrison!" the announcer declared.
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Brock stepped forward, raising a hand in acknowledgment. His gaze was steady, and a faint smile played on his lips as he took in the scene. Brock's reputation preceded him; he was known for his tactical prowess and unshakable composure in battle.
Alexander watched from his tower, his expression hardening. This wasn't going to be an easy match, and he knew it. Brock's mastery of Rock-types was unmatched by him, and at 21, he had years of experience that Alexander couldn't match. But Alexander's competitive sprit burned brighter than ever. He would win.
The screen above the stadium displayed Brock's image, accompanied by the lineup of his known Pokémon—each a formidable Rock-type. The crowd's enthusiasm grew as they anticipated an intense clash between these two Trainers.
"Now, let's take a look at the Pokémon team Brock Harrison has brought to this quarter-final match!"
The screen flickered to life, and the image of Brock appeared first—calm, confident, and composed. Below his portrait, the first Pokémon was revealed.
Tyranitar appeared on the screen, its immense size and intimidating presence captured in a dramatic clip of it using Stone Edge to obliterate an opponent's defenses. The crowd let out a mix of gasps and cheers, awed by the sheer power of Brock's ace Pokémon.
Next came Kabutops, its blades gleaming as it gracefully executed Aqua Jet in a high-speed takedown.
The screen transitioned to Golem, shown rolling at high speed to deliver a devastating Rollout attack, crashing into its opponent with unrelenting force.
Then came a surprising addition: Crobat. The screen showed the bat-like Pokémon soaring through the air, weaving around attacks before landing a precise Cross Poison.
The next reveal was Onix, towering and imposing, shown coiling around its opponent in a powerful Bind before slamming it to the ground.
Finally, the screen lit up with Aerodactyl, its wings spread wide as it unleashed a blistering Aerial Ace, cutting through the battlefield with terrifying speed.
Finally, A Picture of Brock was shown, with a determined expression on his face as all six of his Pokémon were displayed below him, opposite to Alexander's.
"What a lineup!" the announcer declared, his voice booming. "With a team like this, Brock Harrison is ready to rock this battlefield!
"The battle between these two powerhouses is about to begin!" the announcer proclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. "Who will emerge victorious and move one step closer to the Indigo League Championship? Let's find out!"
The Referee for the match walked to the middle of the field and invited both the trainers to the middle for the toss.
Alexander walked forward, his eyes never leaving Brock's, both locked in a battle of will to see who will break first.
Finally, both reached towards the middle of the field, where the referee was standing.
Brock put his hand forward for a shake, and Alexander repeated the gesture.
"Good Luck." Brock had a deep voice, like stone rubbing against stone, but it also had certain warmth to it, that just told that he was a good guy. Alexander nodded and replied with a Good Luck of his own before both took two steps back.
Finally, the referee looked at Alexander, who ranked higher in the tournament than Brock.
"Heads or Tails?" Referee asked, looking at the 16 year old.
"Heads" Alexander replied, his voice much lighter than Brock's mature voice, but holding a certain fire within it.
The referee nodded and launched the coin in the air. The audience held their breath as the coin landed. The referee went ahead and picked up the coin before pointing a hand towards Brock.
"Tails." There was cheering from Brocks section of stands. Brock now had an advantage since Alexander will have to send the first Pokémon now and he can just react to it to send the best possible matchup.
Alexander smiled to himself; he did not care about the toss. He had not won a single toss in the whole tournament. He believed in his Pokémon's power. No type advantage or strategy can combat sheer power. He had made sure that point got across whole of indigo in the past month.
Alexander looked at Brock who nodded at him and was about to turn to return.
"I hope you prove enough of a challenge." A voice reached Brock's ear and he felt a surge of anger at arrogance of the boy. He turned around, expecting an annoying smirk or proud look but was met with a determined expression.
"I hope to actually have a chance to use Charizard." The boy said again and then turned around without giving him a chance to say anything back. His Dark Blue jacket shimmered in sunlight, and his brown hair fluttered in the air, but what stood out to Brock was the confidence with which he walked back.
It was not arrogance, nor vanity, but an almost self-assured feeling of strength, like the boy knew his strength and did not took him as threat at all.
A smile grew on Brock's face as he palmed Tyranitar. He would enjoy beating that confidence off the boy.
"Ladies and Gentleman, are you all ready, for the 19th Indigo league's first Quarter Final match between Brock Harrison of Pewter city and Alexander Blaze of Viridian City? Let's count to three."
"One"
Alexander flexed his fingerless gloves, making sure they were put on perfectly.
"Two"
He clipped out a poke ball, which looked to have been painted using color to describe the scene of tsunami.
"Three"
A Bang occurred around the stadium as the flames of Moltres roared to signify the start of the match.
Alexander took a deep breath, the painted PokéBall cool in his hand. The roaring cheers of the crowd filled his ears, but his mind was solely focused on the match ahead. With a swift motion, he hurled the PokéBall into the air.
"Let's go, Blastoise!" he shouted, his voice clear and confident.
The Poké Ball burst open with a flash of brilliant light, and from it emerged the towering figure of Blastoise. The Water-type powerhouse landed on the battlefield with a resounding thud, its cannons gleaming in the sunlight. It let out a deep roar, flexing its massive arms in superman pose as water misted from its hydro cannons.
The crowd erupted into cheers at the sight of Alexander's formidable Pokémon. The announcer's voice rang out once more
"Alexander leads with Blastoise, the powerhouse Water-type that's become a fan favorite in this tournament. It makes sense, being a water-type that Alexander will go with his trusted Blastoise against a Rock-type trainer!"
Across the field, Brock's expression remained calm and focused. He reached for his own Poké Ball, a small smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Alright then," he murmured. "Let's see how you handle this."
He threw his Poké Ball high into the air. "Kabutops, you're up!"
Kabutops landed and didn't wait for orders. With a swift movement, it slashed at the ground, sending jagged rocks hurtling toward Blastoise.
"Dodge and counter with Water Pulse!" Alexander called, his hair falling in his face before he angrily pushed it up.
The Water-type sidestepped the assault, its heavy steps shaking the battlefield, and retaliated with a powerful Water Pulse. The spiraling sphere of water crashed into the ground as Kabutops darted away, droplets scattering like a mist over the crowd. "Blastoise!" it growled in frustration, watching its attack miss.
"Keep your distance, Kabutops! Use Stone Edge!" Brock commanded, his expression hard with no feeling.
Jagged pillars of stone erupted from the ground, forcing Blastoise to weave and sidestep to avoid getting pinned.
"Rapid Spin!" Alexander shouted confidently.
Blastoise spun rapidly, deflecting the smaller stones with its powerful shell. The vortex of water it created forced Kabutops to leap back, clicking angrily. "Kabutops!" it hissed, its claws digging into the ground for stability.
"Get in close with Aqua Jet!" Brock ordered.
Kabutops launched itself forward like a bullet, cloaked in water. The impact slammed into Blastoise's side, staggering the larger Pokémon. "Blassss!" Blastoise growled, bracing itself.
"Shake it off! Hydro Pump, point blank!" Alexander yelled, his voice cutting through the crowd to reach Blastoise ears, the oversized turtle nodding.
The cannons roared to life, unleashing twin torrents of water that Kabutops barely dodged. The streams carved deep grooves into the battlefield, the sheer force drawing gasps from the crowd.
"Use Giga Drain, Kabutops!" Brock shouted.
Kabutops' scythes glowed with green energy as it slashed at Blastoise, drawing vitality from its opponent. "Kabu...TOPS!" it hissed in triumph as Blastoise roared in protest, stepping back as it tried to fend off the assault. "Blaaassstoise!" it bellowed, shaking itself free.
"Counter with Ice Beam!" Alexander barked.
Blastoise's cannon swiveled, releasing a freezing beam that Kabutops narrowly avoided. The beam struck the ground, leaving a patch of ice that caused Kabutops to skid as it regained its footing. "Kabutops!" it growled, its claws scraping for traction.
"Don't let up! Stone Edge again!" Brock commanded.
Kabutops slammed its claws into the ground, sending another wave of jagged stones toward Blastoise.
"Earthquake!" Alexander countered.
Blastoise stomped hard, causing the battlefield to tremble violently. "Blassss!" it roared, the tremor shattering the incoming rocks and throwing Kabutops off balance, sending it crashing to the ground. "Kabu!" it cried out as it hit.
"Quick, Aqua Jet to recover!" Brock said urgently.
Kabutops surged forward, the water surrounding it propelling it upright and closing the distance once more. Its scythes glowed as it prepared a Superpower attack. "KABUTOPS!" it cried.
"Meet it with Skull Bash!" Alexander shouted.
Blastoise lowered its head and charged, its shell glinting as it collided with Kabutops. "Blasss!" it grunted from the impact, both Pokémon growling as they pushed against each other.
"Kabutops, Swords Dance!" Brock called.
Kabutops spun rapidly, its scythes leaving trails of light as it boosted its power. "Kabutops!" it hissed, its energy spiking.
"Don't let it finish! Water Pulse!" Alexander yelled.
Blastoise fired another spiraling orb of water, striking Kabutops mid-spin and sending it tumbling back. "Kabu!" it cried, shaking itself off, breathing heavily.
"Keep the pressure, Kabutops! Use Slash, then follow up with Aqua Jet!" Brock ordered.
Kabutops dashed forward, slashing furiously at Blastoise. The Water-type shielded itself with its arms and shell but grunted in pain as one slash hit its side. "Blastoise!" it roared.
"Rapid Spin and throw it off!" Alexander countered.
Blastoise spun again, creating a vortex that knocked Kabutops away. "Kabutops!" it growled as it skidded across the rocky terrain.
"Finish strong! Hydro Pump, full power!" Alexander shouted.
Blastoise's cannons roared to life, releasing torrents of water that surged toward Kabutops.
"Dodge and use Giga Drain!" Brock countered.
Kabutops leapt to the side, its scythes glowing green as it slashed at Blastoise again, sapping its energy. The crowd erupted in cheers, the intensity of the battle keeping everyone on the edge of their seats.
"Blastoise, Ice Beam, full spread!" Alexander commanded, his voice sharp with urgency.
Blastoise planted its feet and unleashed a wide arc of frost from its cannons. "Blassss-toise!" it bellowed, the beam shimmering as it coated the battlefield in a thin layer of ice. Kabutops skidded, struggling to find its footing. "Kabu!" it growled in frustration, its claws scraping against the icy surface.
"Kabutops, break through with Aqua Jet!" Brock ordered, his tone unwavering.
Kabutops cloaked itself in a torrent of water and surged forward, its streamlined body cutting through the icy terrain. The collision was ferocious as it slammed into Blastoise's shell. "KABUTOPS!" it screeched, water splashing in all directions.
"Brace yourself, then use Skull Bash!" Alexander countered.
Blastoise grunted as it absorbed the hit, its massive frame barely budging. With a deep growl, it lowered its head and charged, the gleam of its polished shell catching the sunlight. "Blaaaaastoise!" it roared, meeting Kabutops head-on in a thunderous clash. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the battlefield, drawing gasps from the audience.
"Keep up the pressure, Kabutops! Use Stone Edge!" Brock shouted.
Kabutops leapt back and slammed its scythes into the ground, summoning jagged rocks that shot toward Blastoise. "Kabu-tops!" it hissed, its eyes gleaming with determination.
"Counter with Rapid Spin!" Alexander called.
Blastoise withdrew into its shell and spun rapidly, deflecting the incoming rocks with a powerful vortex of water. "Blastoise!" it growled, as the stones shattered upon contact.
Brock's eyes narrowed. "Kabutops, Swords Dance!"
The ancient Pokémon began to twirl, its scythes leaving glowing trails of light in the air. "Kabutops… Kabu!" it chanted, its power visibly intensifying with each spin.
Alexander clenched his fists and pumed his arm forwad. "Don't let it finish! Hydro Pump!"
Blastoise's cannons roared to life, unleashing twin torrents of water that barreled toward Kabutops. The streams collided with the spinning Pokémon, forcing it to halt its dance. "Kabu!" it cried out, struggling to resist the overwhelming force.
"Push forward with Giga Drain!" Brock yelled.
"Don't Let it Blastoise, Protect and then then Ice Punch."
Kabutops' scythes glowed with a vibrant green energy as it slashed at Blastoise, only to be met with a Green shield.
"Kabutops!" it hissed angrily as Blastoise roared, the energy shield failing as it rushed forward its fist covered in ice as it punched Kabutops on the jaw sending it flying. Kabutops crashed into the ground and that was all the time Alexander needed.
"Blastoise, use Earthquake!" Alexander commanded not giving Brock time to respond.
With a mighty stomp, Blastoise sent tremors through the battlefield. The ground cracked and shifted, the Ground type move sending tremors of pain in Kabutops body. "Blastoise!" it roared, its voice echoing as Kabutops struggled to stand up.
"Recover with Aqua Jet!" Brock said with urgency in his voice.
Kabutops tried to launch itself into the air, using the water to regain stability.
"Don't let up! Hydro Cannon, now!" Alexander commanded with finality.
Blastoise's cannons roared to life, unleashing a colossal torrent of water that engulfed Kabutops. "BLASTOISE!" it bellowed as the powerful stream sent Kabutops crashing into the stadium wall. "Kabu…" it groaned weakly, struggling to rise before finally collapsing.
The referee raised a flag. "Kabutops is unable to battle! The winner is Blastoise!"