Notes- This chapter ended up being a bit longer than I expected, but I still enjoyed writing it. This tournament was an important event in Chris' saga, whether he realizes it or not. These next couple of chapters should be pretty interesting as I have something new planned. I'll elaborate at the end of the chapter. I hope you enjoy Chapter 14! Please Review and Subscribe!
Chapter 14
Chris was held speechless as he examined the open sky above him. The sunlight revealed the massive battlefield, which Chris now noticed was free of any cages or people. The battleground was split into halves, with the center resembling a Pokéball. A blue trainer box rested to the right of Chris, with its red counterpart residing on the left side of the battlefield. The scale of everything evaporated any anxiety that Chris had felt, and replaced it with pure wonder.
The trainer noticed that half of the remaining participants had been placed on the opposite side of the stadium. Before Chris could discuss the improved setting with Luke, a voice came over the intercom.
"The tournament will commence in one hour," a male voice announced. "Once the crowds have been seated and the broadcast has begun, the large screen will display the match-ups We will begin on the left side of the bracket and work towards the right. Upon defeat, trainers are welcome to watch the rest of the battles or exit the facility. Thank you."
"This is a little too official for my taste," Luke mumbled to Chris.
"You have to admit that it's impressive," Chris replied with a whistle.
"As long as the battling is impressive," Luke smirked, "I'm satisfied. That damn bracket is what I'm waiting on!"
"Maybe we can upset some trainers with eight badges," Chris proposed.
"Everybody loves a Cinderella story," Luke nodded, "but we do need to be realistic." He laughed. "I'm looking to advance, first and foremost."
"Gotta take it one round at a time," Chris agreed.
A distant voice soon turned into an audible roar as the stadium's seats were quickly filled. What once was a magnificent display of architecture had now become a sea of humanity. As the minutes ticked by, Chris could feel energy racing through the stands like a bolt of lightning. The trainers were slowly becoming more anxious as they studied the dark electronic screen above the stands. As an hour's time winded down, camera operators took their seats around the edges of the stadium and waited for a signal.
Chris flinched as dozens of fireworks launched into the sky from outside the stadium. Trumpets began to play over the intercom as the massive overhead screen suddenly flickered to life.
"Welcome everyone," a peppy voice blared over the theatrics, "to the fifth annual Goldenrod Open Tournament!" There was a dramatic pause, before the annoying voice continued. "If you look overhead, we are about to reveal the match-ups!"
A blank bracket appeared on the screen, drawing the population's attention.
"Here are the battle pairings!" The announcer boomed over a drum roll.
Trainer cards began to trickle down the screen like rain. Each marker matched that of the ID cards around the trainers' necks. The cards fell into the open slots until the entire bracket had been filled.
Chris scanned the board with such intensity that he felt his eyes begin to burn. The trainer soon realized that he was not in the left half of the bracket.
"It seems like I've got a shot," Luke pointed towards the fourth battle, where his picture resided. "A Section Two opponent could only have four badges at the most. There shouldn't be an incredible difference."
"I'm the next to last battle," Chris scoffed, mentally cursing that he was not on Luke's side of the bracket. He turned his attention to his opponent's identity and felt a lump form in his throat.
"Section 4," Luke's voice was hollow. "Good luck."
"You better be focusing on your battle," Chris threw on a smile. "After all, we'll both have to win out to reach one another."
"Right," Luke was cut off by the announcer.
"Without further delay," the crowd became silent, "will the trainers for the first battle please report to the battlefield. The trainer with the higher section will take the red corner."
A male trainer who looked to be Chris' age stood up in front of him. From the other side of the stadium, Chris believed he could make out the other trainer moving. Both made their way to a set of stairs nearby that led to the battlefield. As they made their way towards their respective boxes, Chris noticed that it would be a battle between Section Three and Section Two.
According to the overhead screen, the trainer from Chris' side was named Waz and hailed from Viridian City. The trainer did not possess great height, but was built like a boulder. He walked with a slow, but steady footing and held quite an intimidating presence.
"You ever heard of him?" Chris' question was answered by a shake of Luke's head.
"He only has three or four badges," Luke replied after studying his ID on the screen. "He'll be fighting an uphill battle against her."
Waz's opponent was a woman who looked to be in her early twenties. She walked with a quick, confident pace that made it obvious that she did not fear her opponent. As they reached their trainer boxes, a judge stepped onto an elevated podium and began to speak into a wireless microphone.
"This will be a two-on-two battle," the female judge clarified. "Substitutions are only allowed after an opponent's Pokémon has been defeated. My judgment on a Pokémon's ability to battle is final." She looked towards each trainer. "Are you ready?" After both nodded, the judge waved the flags in each of her hands. "Begin!"
Immediately, a play-by-play announcer took over the action. The show had begun.
Both trainers tossed out their Pokéballs, revealing Waz's choice of Torkoal and his opponent's Kadabra. The female trainer, whom Chris now identified as Lisa, wasted no time in setting the pace.
The Psychic type released a telekinetic blast of energy from its spoon, which Chris recognized as Psybeam. The crowd had picked up the volume, making it impossible for Chris to hear the trainers' commands. Waz responded by having Torkoal block the attack with Protect. The Coal Pokémon followed that up with a blinding Smokescreen attack.
"Waz seems comfortable playing defense!" The announcer barked as the smoke surrounded Kadabra. "What is his strategy?"
A dark glow surrounded the Fire type, leading Chris to believe that a stat boosting move had been used. Kadabra suddenly burst through the smoke and launched itself at the fire turtle. The Psychic type's incredible speed allowed it to be upon Waz's Pokémon in an instant.
"Kadabra went with a speed boost in Agility," the words raced out of the announcer's mouth. "How strong has Amnesia made Torkoal?!"
The Psi Pokémon slammed its spoon into Torkoal's back, creating an incredibly high pitched frequency. An invisible explosion rocked the battlefield, as Torkoal was slammed through the earthen floor by a psychic blast. Kadabra kept its position on the Fire type's back, attempting to push it further into the dirt.
"What an incredibly powerful Psychic attack!" The announcer roared as the crowd oohed and awed.
Luke turned to speak to Chris, but he was interrupted by Torkoal's counter.
"Look at that focus!" The announcer was milking each moment for all it was worth.
The Coal Pokémon seemed to have almost immediately shaken off the attack. Before Kadabra could leap off its back, the Fire type unleashed an eruption of inferno from its shell. Chris thought he heard a shout from Lisa as the flames engulfed her completely vulnerable Pokémon.
"Lava Plume found its mark!" Chris could already hear the announcer's voice cracking.
It did not take long for the defensively weak Kadabra to succumb to the ferocious attack. The wispy Psychic type toppled to the ground and did not move.
"Kadabra is unable to battle!" The judge confirmed, raising a flag towards Waz.
"What a reversal!" The announcer was practically hissing at this point. "How will Lisa recover?!"
"Shouldn't have brought Kadabra into a close combat fight," Luke commented to Chris. "She over predicted her Pokémon's strength."
"And Torkoal's Special Defense!" Chris added, shaking his head in amazement. "That Smokescreen was a perfect diversion. It allowed Torkoal to boost its Special Defense to the point where it could take a direct Psychic attack!"
"He countered the counter," Luke chuckled. "We may be witnessing an upset."
"She's going to slow things down now," Chris studied the female trainer. "There is no more room for underestimating an opponent."
"Would you like to make a substitution?" The judge asked after the crowd had settled down. After seeing Waz shake his head, the judge turned to Lisa. "Please send out your final Pokémon!"
Chris could make out a determined expression on the female trainer as she withdrew an odd colored device. She tossed the Pokéball into the air and a stout creature with four arms burst from it.
"That Machamp could be a game changer," Luke admired the Fighting type's powerful frame.
"Time for Lisa to fight back!" The announcer shouted, successfully drawing the crowd in once more.
"Are both trainer's ready?" The judge checked both trainers. "Begin!"
Lisa shouted something to her Pokémon, causing the Fighting type to bring its arms towards its chest. A golden glow radiated from the Superpower Pokémon as its muscles began to bulge, drawing a collective gasp from the crowd.
"Bulk Up," Luke nodded in recognition.
"Look's like Lisa is trying to even up the power balance," Chris turned to Waz, and found him quickly shouting a command.
"Is it possible for Machamp to become even stronger?" The announcer asked. "And how will Waz respond?!"
Torkoal reared back and unleashed a powerful stream of fire from its mouth. Lisa's Machamp remained focused on its stat boosting, and took the flames head on.
"A vicious Overheat slams Machamp!" The announcer's words echoed around the stadium.
Machamp managed to shake off the attack as its trainer gave it a command. The Fighting type immediately took off towards the Coal Pokémon, with each step leaving large cracks in the ground. Waz called for another defensive boost, as Torkoal took on a white glow. The Fire Type dug its feet into the ground as its opponent closed in.
The Superpower Pokémon swung one of its massive fists forward, catching the Coal Pokémon underneath its shell. The punch became an uppercut, as Machamp launched the large turtle into the air. While the Coal Pokémon shot upwards, Lisa was already calling for a follow up. Machamp launched itself towards the spiraling Torkoal, bringing two arms forward this time.
"Machamp is going in for the kill!" The commentator exclaimed.
"He hasn't given up yet," Luke directed Chris' attention to Waz, who was still directing his off balanced Pokémon.
The Coal Pokémon slowed its spinning, and dropped like a brick towards the pursuing Machamp. Pushing its body downward, Torkoal intercepted Machamp's Cross Chop with a powerful Stomp attack. The collision echoed through the stadium as both Pokémon bounced off one another. Machamp landed hard on its feet, while its opponent crashed onto its back. After several seconds, it became apparent that Torkoal was finished.
"Torkoal is unable to battle!" The judge confirmed, raising a flag towards Lisa.
"Lisa has turned the tide of battle!" The voice overhead announced.
"I'm curious to see how Waz responds," Luke stated as he looked towards the young man.
"I still think he has the advantage," Chris responded, thinking about Waz's last Pokémon. "Machamp took some big shots."
"The strength of Machamp's Bulk Up will be the difference maker," Luke looked up at the tournament screen.
"And what Pokémon he has left," Chris added.
The judge turned to Waz. "Choose your final Pokémon, trainer!"
The young man brought out another Pokéball, but decided to open the device from his hand. Another turtle-like creature appeared, but this one was blue and had a much smaller frame.
"A Wartortle," Luke's voice was full of intrigue. "I wonder if he got his starter on the same day as me."
"Are both trainers ready?" The judge waited for conformation. "Then begin!"
"This last battle will decide everything!" The announcer blared.
"No shit," Chris heard Luke mumble.
Wartortle immediately fired a stream of bubbles towards its opponent. Lisa decided to play it safe and had Machamp simply avoid the attack. The Superpower Pokémon then took off towards Wartortle, brandishing an electrified fist.
"Waz had better counter quickly!" The overhead voice urged.
Instead, the young man seemed to relax and did not give his Pokémon a command. Machamp threw an electric filled punch at the Water type, which Wartortle managed to dodge. Like its trainer, the Turtle Pokémon seemed completely calm as it spun around the barrage of punches. Chris noticed Waz suddenly stiffen up and yell out a command.
In a flash, Wartortle had taken the offensive. The Water type brought forward two ice covered fists. Both Pokémon began to square off, exchanging blows like prize fighters. In between the strikes, the announcer did his best to commentate the battle like a boxing match.
"Machamp misses with a powerful right hook," the announcer's voice took on a different tone. "Oh, Wartortle scores with an Ice Punch jab!"
"At least he's trying something new," Chris shrugged towards a frustrated Luke.
Waz seemed to change his approach, directing his Pokémon to back off. Following this instruction, the Turtle Pokémon reared back to release a new attack
Lisa did not want to give her opponent a chance, and pushed for Machamp to strike first. The Fighting type raced forward and threw its whole body into a massive punch. Wartortle snapped forward and released a large orb of water at the attacking Machamp. The Superpower Pokémon's fist collided with the water attack, and it appeared to be a stalemate.
The orb suddenly burst and Machamp was slammed with an explosion of water. The pulse swept Machamp off its feet and overcame the Fighting type. Everyone in the stadium, including the judge, were too surprised to move.
The judge finally realized that Lisa's Pokémon had fainted. "Machamp is unable to battle!" The confirmation sent the crowd into a deafening roar. "Waz is the victor!"
"An upset in the first battle!" The announcer screamed over the audience. "What a start!"
"This bodes well!" Chris yelled to Luke, looking back at his matchup.
"Maybe for me," Luke laughed after seeing Chris' face sink.
Two men stepped up beside Lisa and Waz. They led the trainers into opposite tunnels beneath the stadium seats. Lisa's ID vanished as Waz's was illuminated. The bracket flashed back on screen, revealing the young man's place in the second round.
"On to the next battle!" The commentator informed, as two new trainer's pictures appeared on screen.
"Look who's back," a grin appeared on Luke's face.
"She shouldn't have any trouble with her Section One opponent," Chris gazed at the profile picture of Sarah.
"Sucks for me," Luke shook his head. "I'll either have to battle her or Waz in the third round."
Chris chuckled. "I sure would hate to have a tough battle early on."
"What happened to your fiery spirit of victory?" Luke inquired, giving Chris a strange look. "I've never heard you this pessimistic. You haven't lost yet!"
"I-" Chris was cut off by the judge's voice.
"Are both trainers ready?"
Sarah's opponent, a young man who looked much younger than sixteen, was visibly shaking. Chris could see his head turning back and forth, obviously overwhelmed by the crowd around him.
"Then begin!"
Sarah released a Luxray from her Pokéball, while her opponent went with a Girafarig. What ensued was a complete beat down of unrivaled intensity. After his Girafarig had fainted, the young man's Raticate soon followed. Both battles had ended before Chris had time to really understand Sarah's style.
"You better hope Waz takes care of her," Chris mumbled to Luke as a victorious Sarah was led through the tunnel behind her.
"I'm still trying to prepare for my first round opponent," Luke laughed. "I'd be ecstatic to battle either of them!"
The next battle took even less time than the previous. Chris was amazed by the Section Four trainer's Hitmontop and its absolute dominance. The speed of its kicks decimated both of its opponents.
"Will the trainers from the fourth battle please come forward?" The announcer's voice snapped Chris out of his analytic state.
"Look's like you're up," Chris smiled as Luke stood up.
"I'll try not to take too long," Luke nodded as he moved towards the nearby steps.
Chris noticed the confidence Luke possessed as he headed towards the blue trainer box. Chris silently cursed himself for the sudden fit of insecurity he felt. He was at this tournament to do his best, not leave as a champion. He couldn't keep holding himself to his brother's standards.
"Are both trainers ready?" Chris noticed Luke's head snap forward at the judge's question. "Then begin!"
Luke tossed his Pokéball high into the air, its beam of light releasing Wooper onto the battlefield. Chris turned to look at Luke's opponent, and found him to be an older man with short stature. His choice of Pokémon turned out to be the fiery slug, Magcargo.
Luke wasted no time in taking the offensive, much to Chris surprise. The Water Fish Pokémon fired a strong jet of water towards the stationary Lava Pokémon.
"Isaiah allows his Pokémon to take a powerful Water Gun to start the battle!" The announcer was right on cue.
A massive cloud of steam suddenly rippled out across the stadium. Chris turned to observe Luke's response, but found a confused expression on the trainer's barely visible face.
"The heat of Magcargo's body instantly vaporizes water," a voice near Chris informed him.
The trainer turned and found Waz standing beside him, a solemn look on the trainer's face. He nodded at Luke's vacant seat. "Care if I take a seat?"
"Not at all."
Waz sat down and remained silent as he turned his attention to the battle. From up close, Chris noticed the trainer's age was very close to his own. Chris also realized how tan the trainer's skin was. The young man's olive tone was several shades darker than Chris' own. What really grabbed Chris' attention though, was the trainer's focused, slanted eyes. Waz's attention towards the battle was absolute.
"Wooper is taking some serious blows," the announcer roared as flames slammed into Luke's Pokémon.
The steam still obscured Magcargo from view, but the Lava Pokémon's attacks were too widespread to not keep hitting.
"Those are some vicious Lava Plume attacks, folks!" The announcer clarified.
"Attacking from beneath a smokescreen," Chris shook his head. "And here I thought that was my secret move."
"Too be fair," Waz chimed in, "I'm also guilty as charged from an originality standpoint."
"I would agree," Chris chuckled, "but you won your match. Against a more experienced opponent at that!"
"It wasn't easy," Waz let a small smile show. "I've trained for moments like these since I was a kid."
Chris was about to ask what he meant, but a gasp from the crowd drew his attention back to the battle.
"Where did Wooper go?" The announcer's voice was filled with shock.
Chris was surprised to find Luke's side of the battlefield completely covered in mud. As he scanned for Wooper, he discovered that the Water Fish Pokémon truly had disappeared. The steam finally disappeared, leaving Isaiah to baffle at the location of the enemy Pokémon.
"Mud shot!" Chris thought he heard Luke command.
Several blobs of mud shot out of the gunk-infested battlefield and slammed into the stunned Magcargo. Chris was amazed by Luke's tactics, as the attack still did not reveal the location of his Pokémon. The Fire type and its trainer were also confused by the strategy.
The Lava Pokémon began firing a barrage of flaming orbs that exploded across the mud stained battlefield. The flames quickly hardened the slippery surface, methodically eliminating Wooper's hiding location.
The announcer attempted to build up the tension. "Those Flame Burst attacks are honing in on Wooper!"
Wooper rose up from its spot in the mud, bringing the already steaming water on the battlefield with him. Luke's Pokémon launched the mass of water towards Magcargo, giving the Lava Pokémon no chance to avoid the attack.
"Luke uses his surroundings to create an impressive Scald attack!" The announcer informed.
As Wooper's attack raced towards Magcargo, the Fire type released a pulse of energy. The Lava Pokémon's attack rippled through the ground and met the oncoming attack of Wooper. The stadium seats shook as explosions of earth shot upwards, scattering the wave of water in all directions.
"Now, Ancient Power!" Isaiah's voice could be heard over the gasps of the crowd.
A multitude of glowing stones appeared around Magcargo. The Lava Pokémon released the attack at the visibly exhausted Wooper, much to Luke's frustration.
"After countering Wooper with Earth Power," the announcer's voice was building, "the Lava Pokémon unleashes a powerful Ancient Power attack at Luke's Wooper!"
Luke seemed to be on his heels as his Pokémon released another Water Gun at Magcargo's oncoming assault. The rocks slashed through Wooper's attack and slammed into the Water Fish Pokémon. After the blows had finished, Chris was amazed to find Wooper still on his feet. The Water type released a cry before toppling over into the mud soaked battlefield.
"Wooper is unable to battle!" The judge raised her blue flag.
"That was a good battle for Luke," Chris looked at the weakened Magcargo. "His Poochyena should finish off Isaiah's Pokémon."
"Do you know him personally?" Waz inquired.
Chris nodded. "We traveled to this tournament together."
"Poochyena is going to have to get in close to attack," Waz verified.
The judge turned to Luke. "Choose your next Pokémon."
The trainer from Tohjo released the Bite Pokémon onto the battlefield. Despite being down a Pokémon, Luke's posture remained confident.
"Begin!"
This time, Luke decided to let Magcargo make the first move. The Lava Pokémon sent another pulse of energy through the ground.
"Isaiah starts things off with another Earth Power!" The announcer was back at it.
Poochyena raced towards the oncoming attack and managed to leap over the blast. Chris was surprised by the Bite Pokémon's speed, and so to was Luke's opponent. A dark glow appeared around the sprinting Poocheyena's mouth as it sunk its fangs into Magcargo's brittle shell. To Chris' amazement, the Lava Pokémon toppled over and remained still.
The judge held up a red flag. "Magcargo is unable to battle!"
"A one shot knockout!" The announcer's voice was purposely hysterical.
"Magcargo must have been quite damaged," Chris looked at the Lava Pokémon once more. "Either that, or the little pup has quite a bite.
"I think it was more about the placing of the attack," Waz added. He pointed towards Magcargo's back. "Its shell is actually quite brittle. It seemed that Luke was directing Wooper's attacks towards Magcargo's shell the entire battle."
"Trying to soften it up," Chris smiled, impressed with Luke's tactics once more.
At the judge's direction, Isaiah released his second Pokémon. The metallic Magneton burst onto the battlefield as an odd quite overtook the battlefield. Upon examining both sides, the judge continued the match.
"A Steel type is not what Luke wanted to see," Chris gritted his teeth. He could only imagine the frustration Luke must be feeling.
"Does Poochyena know Fire Fang?" Waz asked, to which Chris shook his head. "Darn."
Magneton began the battle by creating a bright golden orb of light around itself that quickly faded. Poochyena shot off towards the Steel type upon Luke's command.
"Isaiah is building on his physical defense with Reflect!" The announcer clarified.
Poochyena continued to charge forward and pounced at his hovering opponent. As the Bite Pokémon rammed his body into Magneton, Reflect's golden glow surrounded the Steel type. The Magnet Pokémon barely seemed fazed by the attack and suddenly turned its attention to offense. A burst of electricity emitted from the magnetic trio and crashed into the vulnerable Poochyena. The Bite Pokémon did not seem injured by the attack, but collapsed once its feet touched the ground.
"A well timed Thunder Wave has crippled Poochyena!" The announcer's statement seemed like a death sentence.
"There goes Poochyena's speed advantage," Chris sighed.
The Dark type managed to get to its feet as Magneton hovered over it. The Magnet Pokémon fired a white ball of energy towards its opponent, which Poochyena managed to sidestep. The Bite Pokémon lunged at the open Electric Type and delivered another hard shot, this one with its head.
"Type resistance and Reflect are just too good of a defense at this point," Waz acknowledged, shaking his head.
After delivering the blow, Poochyena stuttered as he landed on the ground. Magneton took advantage of the paralysis by zapping the Dark type with a strong Thunderbolt. The Bite Pokémon fell to the ground once more and Magneton moved in for the finish.
"Will this be the deciding blow?!" The announcer exclaimed as Isaiah's Pokémon prepared another Thunderbolt attack.
At the last possible second, Poochyena kicked up the dirt beneath it to blind Magneton. The Electric type went ahead and released its attack, but Poochyena managed to roll out of the way.
"Luke still refuses to give in!" The announcer roared.
Poochyena managed to slam itself into the disoriented Steel type, but still could not score a strong blow. The Dark Type managed to remain on its feet, but could not move as Magneton recovered. The Magnet Pokémon fired another white ball of energy, with this one finding its mark.
"Poochyena is hit with a vicious Flash Cannon!"
The tough Bite Pokémon could take no more damage and finally succumbed to exhaustion. Chris noticed Luke straighten himself up at the sight of his Pokémon's defeat.
"Poochyena is unable to battle!" The judge motioned towards Luke's opponent. "Isaiah is the victor!"
"Darn," Chris leaned back in his chair. The trainer had figured that Magneton would be an insurmountable wall, but it did nothing to settle the disappointment in his stomach.
"He put up an excellent fight," Waz nodded at Magneton, "considering the major type disadvantage."
Luke was led through the same tunnel Waz had previously gone through. After seeing Chris' puzzled expression, Waz clarified.
"They use that healing machine to take care of your Pokémon," Waz informed. "They also have a huge buffet back there. You'd be amazed how starved you feel after a battle."
"I understand," Chris heard his stomach growl at the thought of food. "I shouldn't have to worry about a long battle though."
"Not with that attitude," Waz's expression became stern. "Even if you are outmatched, you have to remain confident. If your morale is down, won't your Pokémon's be as well?"
Chris nodded. "I love Pokémon battling, I really do." The trainer's thoughts were directed towards the Silver Conference. "It's just, on this big of a stage... I get nervous. I don't feel like I'm deserving."
"We're still young trainers!" Waz cracked a smile. "We're going to make mistakes. Just learn from them and move on."
Several more battles were carried out, as Chris and Waz conversed. Chris found out that the tan trainer was from Viridian City, but had been born and raised in the Sevii Islands where his ancestors had lived. The more he listened to the young man, the more weak he felt. Waz trained his body as much as his Pokémon, and had developed a rigorous daily routine.
"Whenever you train with your Pokémon," Waz flexed one of his tree-trunk size arms, "you gain experience as well. It helps you understand and work with your Pokémon's physique."
Time seemed to race by as the last matches of the round began to finish. Chris and Waz's conversation held the trainers oblivious to many of the battles that raced by. Chris snapped out of their talk when he heard the crowd gasp in awe around him.
"Pinsir is unable to battle!" The judge declared as she raised a flag. "Arcade Star Dahlia is the victor!"
"Arcade Star..." Chris studied the bronze beauty that stood victorious on the battlefield. "She's from the Battle Frontier!"
"She's quite a work of art," Waz grinned mischievously.
"And here I thought you were a sweet, quiet giant!" Chris burst into laughter.
The announcer's voice cut off Chris. "Would the trainers from the next battle report to the battlefield please?"
As Chris looked up at the overhead monitor, he found himself staring into his own eyes. The other picture on screen belonged to his opponent, a stern, dark haired man named Raul. Chris felt his body stand up instinctively, legs snapping firmly.
"Best of luck man," Waz nodded towards the trainer. "With trainers like Dahlia participating, we're already fucked," Waz admitted. "Just give it your best."
"I better not hear any boos from this section," Chris threw on a smile.
The trainer made his way down the nearby stairs and stepped onto the earthen battlefield. The judge directed him towards the same blue trainer box that Luke had lost in. As Chris approached his corner, he felt thousands of eyes pressing down on his back. This mass feeling of acknowledgement was both exciting and terrifying. The trainer had never felt so important, but also realized how much of a target that made him. Chris did his best to stand his tall frame upward and portray confidence as camera flashes momentarily blinded him.
"Are both trainers ready?" The judge's mandatory question still seemed to rattle Chris as he fumbled a Pokéball out of his bag. Despite his hesitancy, Chris nodded towards the judge. "Then begin!"
Chris mirrored his opponent's movements by tossing a Pokéball high into the air. Chris' Fire Mouse Pokémon burst out of his Pokéball with his flames already flared. His opponent's Pokéball gave off a strange golden glow before revealing its contents to be a massive, rocky behemoth. Chris instantly recognized the creature as the Drill Pokémon, Rhydon.
"I see that the typing advantage will not be falling my way," Chris mumbled to himself as he stared down the dual Rock-Ground type.
The Drill Pokémon suddenly lurched forward and slammed a fist into the ground. A massive shock wave rippled out, pulling up large chunks of earth with it.
"Leap over the attack," Chris commanded, "And then use Ember! But keep your distance!"
The Fire type followed his trainer's direction, and jumped over the wide scale Earthquake. The blast actually knocked Chris off his feet, causing the trainer's focus to lapse. As he looked back up, he noticed that the normally slow Rhydon was somehow within striking distance of Cyndaquil. Chris' starter released his attack, slamming the Drill Pokémon with fiery bullets. The attack barely seemed to faze the sturdy Pokémon, who proceeded to slam Cyndaquil with a glowing forearm.
"Chris' fire type is quite outmatched by Rhydon's typing!" The announcer's voice blared from close by. "The tiny starter takes a ferocious Hammer Arm from Raul's Pokémon!"
"Stay strong!" Chris shouted towards his Pokémon over the roaring crowd. "Use your elusiveness to evade those attacks! Let's try some guerrilla tactics!"
Cyndaquil managed to roll out of the way of a Drill Run attack and landed a solid Ember counter on the back of Rhydon's head. Just as Chris believed he may have found some progress, Rhydon slammed its tail into the unsuspecting Cyndaquil. The Fire type was sent into the air and was immediately pursued by the Drill Pokémon.
"Everything is so fast," Chris had no time to attempt a counter as Rhydon slammed its fist into the exposed Cyndaquil. The trainer had not comprehended how fast a battle at the elite level could move. Raul and his Pokémon were shutting Chris down like clockwork.
The trainer noticed Cyndaquil clasp on tightly to the Drill Pokémon's attacking fist. The Fire Mouse was miraculously conscious and refused to give up.
"Ember!" Chris cried desperately.
As the Fire type blasted a wave of flames at Rhydon, the Drill Pokémon slammed its Cyndanquil attached fist into the ground.
"Cyndaquil!"
Rhydon pulled back its arm, revealing Cyndaquil's unconscious body in a large crater. Chris raced out onto the battlefield and cradled the Fire starter in his arms. After seeing that he was not going to immediately come to, Chris returned Cyndaquil back to his Pokéball.
"Cyndaquil is obviously unable to battle," the judge momentarily looked towards Chris with mild concern, before turning to Raul. "Would you like to substitute Pokémon?" He shook his head and the judge focused back on Chris. "Choose your next Pokémon, trainer!"
"Will Chris allow his next Pokémon to be beaten down as well?!" The announcer's question snapped Chris out of his stunned state.
"It's all up to you!" Chris roared as he released Nidoran onto the battlefield.
Boos echoed from nearby fans as the Poison Pin Pokémon appeared on the battlefield.
"Another type disadvantage for Chris!" The announcer's voice really had become infuriating. "This second battle could get ugly."
"Shut up!" Chris said aloud, though he was sure that no one in the crowd could hear him.
"If both trainers are ready," the judge raised both flags, "let the second battle begin!"
"Horn Attack!" Chris was through with caution. If he did not take the offensive, Raul would have no qualms about attacking.
The Poison Type charged forward with an impressive burst of speed. Even Raul seemed taken aback by the unevolved creature's agility. Nidoran sped past Rhydon's guard and slammed its horn into the Drill Pokémon's chest. The attack seemed to knock Raul's Pokémon back a couple of feet, quieting down the skeptical crowd.
Before Chris could follow up the attack, Rhydon took action. The Drill Pokémon pressed forward with an all out charge, forcing Nidoran to attempt to stand his ground.
"Rhydon is going to run over that poor Nidoran with Bulldoze!" Chris ignored the announcer's claims.
"Double Kick!" Chris encouraged, not wanting to fill his Pokémon with doubt.
Rhydon's body smashed into Nidoran before it could attack, and in that instant, Chris believed he had just sentenced his Pokémon to death. A blinding flash of light rippled out from below the attacking Drill Pokémon, causing Rhydon to stop its assault. Chris could only stare on as Nidoran's glowing body expanded outward and took on a more muscular stature. As the light faded, Chris finally realized what had just occurred.
"In an unusual series of events," the announcer seemed intrigued by the sudden change, "Nidoran has evolved into Nidorino! Could this somehow symbolize a comeback for Chris?!"
"That was spectacular," Chris admired his newly evolved Pokémon, whom had managed to avoid major damage with his sudden evolution. The Poison type stood over a foot taller and displayed his much larger horn by swinging it through the air. Chris noticed spikes running down the Pokémon's back and recognized them as Nidorino's powerful new spine.
"The battle is still underway," the judge reminded both trainers as they looked over Chris' Pokémon.
"Let's carry out that Double Kick!" Chris quickly directed, as he attempted to recover his bearings.
Nidorino swung his body around and lashed out at the still vulnerable Rhydon. Chris was amazed to see the Drill Pokémon actually rear back in pain and grab the struck area.
"Let's hit 'em with another one!" Chris tried to push the pace.
As Nidorino swung his powerful feet forward once more, Rhydon seemed to snap out of its dazed state. Raul's Pokémon grabbed Nidorino's legs as they lashed out, and vehemently swung the Poison Pin Pokémon into the ground.
"Get up Nidorino!" Chris urged as Rhydon slammed its fist into the ground.
The Poison type made it back to his feet, but could not avoid Rhydon's powerful Earthquake attack. An explosion of earth blasted into Nidorino, tossing Chris' Pokémon into the air. The newly evolved Pokémon fell back to the ground with an unceremonious thud. Chris simply stared at his defeated Pokémon.
"Nidorino is unable to battle!" The judge extended a flag toward Chris' opponent. "Raul is the victor!"
The cheers of the stadium seemed to amplify as Chris quickly returned Nidorino to his Pokéball. The trainer from Cherrygrove noticed two men standing behind him.
"If you'd follow us sir," the men motioned towards Chris before turning back towards the nearby tunnel.
Chris was led into the darkened tunnel where the men stepped aside. He could hear the chatter of voices and clinking of silverware in the distance.
"You'll find a buffet and healing pod at the end of the hall," one of the men informed Chris. "Please feel free to treat your Pokémon and yourself as you see fit."
As Chris continued down the tunnel, he thought back to what had just happened. Even though he had battled an exceptional trainer, he could only think of the mistakes he had made. The erratic pacing of his battle and his lack of focus had caused his Pokémon to take a beating. Chris was right in having low confidence leading up to the battle, because he had been completely dismantled. Matt wouldn't have made those mistakes.
"Hey man," Chris looked up and found Luke by his side. "You did all you could. That guy was insanely good!"
"I wish that made me feel better," Chris threw on a smile. "But thanks."
"Maybe this will make you feel better," a voice from the shadows spoke.
Chris' neck almost suffered a terrible whiplash as the trainer spun towards the voice. A man sharing Chris' green eyes and short, brown hair stepped forward.
Chris slowly approached the tall man. "Dad."
"Surely you didn't think I would miss your battle!" The man embraced his son as he spoke.
"Don't you have to take care of the broadcast?!" Chris remembered the cameraman's words.
"I managed to pull some strings," Chris' father smiled as he stepped back from his son. He pointed at the Pokéball in Chris' hand. "I was impressed by your battling. Your Nidoran's evolution showed me how much you care for your Pokémon."
"I just wish I could have stayed competitive," Chris replied honestly.
"Let's not worry about that," Ben shook his head. He turned his attention to Luke. "Are you one of Chris' friends or rivals?"
"I suppose you could say both!" Luke smiled as he shook the man's hand.
"Did mom tell you I was going to be in this tournament?" Chris inquired, remembering that he had mentioned it to his mother in a message.
He nodded. "She also told me that you had been traveling with a companion these past few days," Ben placed a hand on Luke's shoulder. "Would this happen to be that Luke fellow?"
"I am," Luke confirmed.
"You showed some impressive strategies in your battle," Chris' father commended the trainer from Tohjo. "Maybe your time together can enhance some of Chris' analytic skills!"
"I think we were actually going to be splitting up," Luke quickly interjected, seeing Chris' face contort in frustration. "We traveled together so that we could reach the tournament in time."
"Now that it's over," Chris added, trying to forget about his father's subtle comment, "we'll probably carry on with our individual agendas."
"That's too bad," Chris' father frowned as he pulled something from his pocket. "I had planned on taking you on a cruise that's sailing out of Olivine City." Ben flashed two tickets at the trainers. "But it isn't for another two months, and I found out recently that I'll be bogged down here at the tower." He nodded at Luke. "When your mother mentioned your friend, I figured that he could fill in for me!"
"A cruise doesn't sound like a bad idea," Luke admitted. "Where does it sail to?"
"That's the best part!" Chris' father laughed, a sound that mirrored his son's own. "It heads for Cianwood City," Ben whipped out the map on Chris' PokéGear and pointed at a cluster of islands, "but stops in the Whirl Islands for a Water Pokémon tournament! I know you have a Water type, Luke," Ben turned to his son, "and I'm sure my boy will also have an adequate choice by then as well!"
"That food is smelling pretty good!" Luke stepped in again. "I'm sure you're starving, Chris."
"Now that you mention it," Chris heard a growl resonate from his stomach, "some food sounds fantastic."
"I also had better get back to work," Chris' father announced. He walked over to Chris. "Before I go, I'll register my number in your PokéGear. If I can find some more free time, we'll have to grab some lunch while you're in town!"
"Definitely," Chris replied with honest sincerity.
"Best of luck on your continued journey," Ben directed at Luke as he handed both boys their cruise tickets. "I hope to see you again down the road. Both of you have such potential!"
Chris and Luke waved at Ben until he had disappeared around a corner. The trainer from Cherrygrove released a heavy sigh.
"I see now why there might be some tension," Luke chuckled at Chris' exhausted expression. "He certainly has a way with words, but he does seem like a nice guy."
"The cruise sounds exciting at least," Chris admitted as they stepped into a decorated plaza. The trainer had his Pokémon taken care of at the nearby healing station and then grabbed two platefuls of food. "It gives us two months to accomplish some individual goals."
"Two months to recover from each other's company," Luke and Chris exchanged grins.
As Chris took a seat and began to chow down, he noticed that Luke was not eating. "I thought you were hungry?"
"I just said that to try and ease the tension I was sensing," Luke shook his head. "I actually ate with some of the other trainers after my battle. A lot of them are pretty cool people."
"So what are your plans now?" Chris asked after devouring a plate of food.
"This tournament was the main reason I came to Goldenrod," Luke explained. "I may head up North and come back here for the gym battle some other time."
"I guess I'll chill here for a little bit," Chris thought back to his father's desire to see him. "I'd like to go ahead and get Goldenrod's Gym out of the way."
Luke nodded. "That sounds like a good plan." The trainer from Tohjo leaned back in his chair. "Two months gives me a lot of time to develop and work with Elekid, Wooper, and Poochyena."
"Your Wooper's strength was pretty impressive," Chris commended the trainer as he threw away his food. "And Poochyena's resiliency was admirable as well."
"I saw some good and bad," Luke critiqued, thinking back on his battle. "I'll have it resolved when we meet up again, I can promise you that!"
"Might as well go ahead and get started," Chris announced as both trainers stood up. "We won't find anymore training here."
The trainers found a nearby exit that led them back to the bricked streets of the island. The sun had just begun to set from its position overhead. As they crossed over the bridge and entered back into the rush of city life, Luke extended a hand towards Chris.
"These past few days have been a hell of a lot of fun, man." Luke and Chris shook hands. "I hope things work out well with you and your pops."
"I really appreciate it," Chris bowed slightly. "It'll be exciting to see where we are in a couple of months!"
"Then I guess I'll head out of town ASAP!" Luke grinned as he turned to take off. "I've gotta make the most of the time available."
"Olivine City!" Chris shouted at the trainer as he walked away.
"Olivine City!" The trainer heard Luke echo over the crowd.
As Luke faded into the multitude of sidewalk traffic, Chris looked at the clear blue sky overhead. With the Goldenrod Tournament behind him, a new saga in his journey was about to begin.
Closing- A new turn in Chris' life is about to unfold. And Luke may be splitting up with Chris, but that doesn't mean we can't hear about his exploits! Chapter 15 will bring many new and exciting adventures! I hope to see you again then!