The next day at 9 AM, sunlight bathed the playground, and the air was filled with tension. James and three other contestants had gathered at the competition venue, ready for the ultimate showdown. This wasn't just about vying for the class championship; it was about each individual's honor and future.
In yesterday's match, James and his Machop left a profound impression on all the students. Machop is undoubtedly one of the most promising Pokémon. Although Grimer performed exceptionally well in the previous battle, its advantages seemed insignificant when facing Machop.
Today's opponent is a Trainer using Mareep. Mareep, an Electric-type Pokémon, isn't exactly a nemesis to Fighting-types, but its tricky control skills and ranged attack capabilities make it a significant threat. James eyed the opposing Mareep, formulating a strategy in his mind.
Pokémon: Mareep
Type: Electric
Level: 7
Gender: Female
Ability: Static (may cause paralysis upon contact)
Moves: Tackle, Growl, Thunder Wave
Egg Move: Body Slam
TM Move: Charge Beam
A smile tugged at James's lips. Who would've thought that this seemingly ordinary starter Pokémon had mastered the powerful move "Charge Beam"? Clearly, some students had spared no expense in purchasing TMs for their Pokémon. Nonetheless, James never relied on such external aids; he focused more on Machop's combat experience and battle potential.
As the match whistle blew, James and his opponent took their positions, the atmosphere thick with anticipation.
"Go, Machop!" James shouted. Machop leaped into the arena, facing the well-prepared Mareep.
"Mareep, use Thunder Wave!" the opposing Trainer commanded immediately.
"Machop, close in and use Bullet Punch!" James didn't wait for a reaction, issuing his command promptly.
Electric waves gathered around Mareep, but Machop, with its nimble footwork, swiftly approached, interrupting the move's execution. The opponent panicked, hurriedly changing tactics, and ordered Mareep to use "Charge Beam," attempting to turn the tide.
"Trying to gamble on boosting your attack power?" James mused. Although Machop's speed was relatively moderate, its innate talent gave it an edge over Mareep in this battle.
As Mareep was sent flying by Bullet Punch, a yellow beam, after charging, struck Machop. Fortunately, Machop crossed its arms over its chest, withstanding the attack, and luck wasn't on Mareep's side this time.
"Machop, Focus Energy!" James quickly commanded.
Machop stood firm, took a deep breath, and a faint white glow enveloped its body, indicating it was gathering strength for a decisive blow.
Despite being injured, Mareep quickly got back up. Under its Trainer's orders, it launched another "Charge Beam," attempting to strike Machop again. However, James had anticipated this and swiftly ordered Machop, "Machop, dodge!"
Machop sidestepped the attack and continued advancing toward Mareep.
"Machop, finish it with Karate Chop!" James commanded promptly.
Machop's fist transformed into a chopping hand, a bright white arc slicing through the air, striking Mareep hard. Mareep couldn't withstand it, lost consciousness, and was knocked out of the arena.
"The winner is James!" the referee announced.
James exhaled softly, recalled Machop into its Poké Ball, and headed straight to the infirmary. Although Machop had shown exceptional strength in the match, consecutive battles had taken a toll on its condition.
The final match was scheduled for the afternoon. James knew the upcoming battle would be even more challenging. Grimer's opponent was a Pidgey that had mastered Air Cutter. While Pidgey had an aerial advantage, James didn't believe it could easily defeat Grimer. He had thoroughly reviewed both sides' information and concluded that Grimer held a slight edge.
After receiving treatment, James left the infirmary with Machop. His gaze inadvertently fell outside the nurse's office, where he saw a Wigglytuff treating other Pokémon. A thought suddenly occurred to James: "If I had a support Pokémon, wouldn't it provide more assurance for the upcoming adventures?"
However, James quickly dismissed the idea. Raising one Pokémon had already stretched his resources thin; training Machop had nearly exhausted all his funds. Although the system had rewarded him with Berries, they were always used to make Pokéblocks to restore Machop's energy, leaving him somewhat overwhelmed.
Nevertheless, the system's rewards didn't stop there. Today, it granted him several rare Berries, especially the "Lansat Berry," which could enhance a Pokémon's critical-hit ratio in dire situations—a crucial factor in winning closely matched battles.
This gave James some relief; at least now he had a countermeasure against Grimer.
Time quickly advanced to the afternoon, and James faced the final contestant in the class. This match would determine the ultimate victor of the class competition. James knew he had to give his all to win, securing more honor and resources for himself.
At Laura's command, both Pokémon entered the arena.
"Grimer, use Shadow Sneak!" the opposing Trainer instructed without hesitation.
"Machop, close in and use Quick Guard!" James swiftly ordered.
Grimer's body quivered rapidly, and a black shadow darted toward Machop like a specter. But Machop, with its quick reflexes, swung its arms, forming a thin barrier in front, successfully blocking the attack.
However, James felt a pang of concern. Machop hadn't learned any ranged attacks, and Grimer's unique body structure and diverse move set were critical weaknesses against Fighting-type Pokémon. Now, Machop couldn't easily defeat the opponent as before; the upcoming battle would be full of challenges.