Chapter 155: Green's Growth
~Leaf G. POV~
[Kanto Region, Days Later, Victory Road]
The chill air of Victory Road bit at my cheeks, a familiar pang of unease tightening in my chest. The echoing silence, punctuated only by the rhythmic drip of water and the occasional scuttling of a Zubat, did little to soothe the lingering anxieties that gnawed at me.
Three years. Three fucking years I had dedicated to vengeance, fueled by the burning ember of rage and the icy grip of fear.
Now, that fire had dwindled to a mere flicker, replaced by a strange sort of hollow. The Masked Man, the architect of my suffering, was gone. Slain by the icy hand of Pryce, the Mahogany Gym Leader, not by my own.
Disappointment? Yes, a bitter sting of it.
But relief, too. A vast, sprawling relief that settled over me like a gentle snowfall, burying the buried sorrows and anxieties of the past. It was finally over.
I'd been lost for so long, a ship without a rudder, tossed about by the cruel currents of the Masked Man's manipulations. Now, I had a choice, a direction. And it was a direction far removed from the shadowy world of vengeance.
My new life had started with my initial plan to catch the Legendary Bird Trio. I had already collected info on where to collect Zapdos and Articuno, their powerful forms, adding to my team firepower.
But now? They're a moot point once I capture the one residing in Victory Road.
The Flame Pokémon Moltres. Moltres was the remaining roaming Bird I needed to catch. But that was not all I wanted. I knew that this would only mark the beginning of my actual journey, now that I could finally settle in.
After Professor Oak and my friends had helped me to get past my trauma, they convinced me that I should seek love, family, and friendship, and so I decided to dedicate my life to the goal of finding my parents. I also planned to use the Tenth Pokémon League Tournament as a way for them to remember and find me.
I wanted them to see me, not as the child they had lost, but as the strong, independent Trainer I had become. Not only that, but… get some payback against Sky in the process. I can't wait to show his face when or if we get the chance to battle, I'm busting out Moltres against him!
The thought of the Pokemon League Tournament sparked a familiar thrill, a familiar drive. I had tasted defeat there before, a bitter pill to swallow.
Now I had a chance at redemption, a chance to prove my strength to the world—and my parents, if they were watching. Just the thought made my heart skip a beat and showed my folks searching for me that I'm here.
My team, a carefully assembled tapestry of strength and strategy, was ready. Blastoise, my steadfast anchor, is its shell a testament to resilience. Ninetales, a fiery beauty with a heart of ice, her cunning is an asset.
Gengar, a mischievous specter, a master of trickery, and a potent offensive weapon as shown how Sky trained his. Victreebel, a tenacious predator, its Vine Whips, a fearsome threat coated with Toxic.
Clefable, a gentle powerhouse, its Fairy-type prowess a shield against the darkness. And finally, Kangaskhan, a symbol of maternal strength, its protective instinct mirroring my own for Soul Silver, my lil bro.
They were my family, my companions, my warriors. And with them, I would face my demons and embrace my destiny.
But first, Moltres. The memory of the Masked Man's bird – a monstrous creature of gold and fire, a winged terror that had snatched me from my fleeting freedom – still haunted my dreams.
It was a bird that I didn't even know... or probably never know. I'm fine with that as I don't want to recall that dark moment in my life. But…
Birds were my weakness, my Achilles' heel, and I knew I had to confront this fear, to stare it down and conquer it. It wasn't just about the battle with Moltres; it was about reclaiming a piece of myself, a piece that the Masked Man had tried to steal long ago...
I delved deeper into the cavernous heart of Victory Road, the air growing heavier, the echoes amplifying my every footstep. The darkness was a comforting presence, a familiar embrace. It was the silence that unnerved me. The silence of the cave was a stark contrast to the cacophony of the Masked Man's presence.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I reached it. A vast, cavernous chamber. The air shimmered, the heat radiating off the crimson form that stood at the far end.
*Sssss*
Moltres. The Legendary Flame Pokémon. A beautiful and terrifying beast.
My breath hitched in my throat. The fear, that familiar, icy grip, threatened to constrict my lungs. But I held my ground.
I took a deep breath, channeling the strength I had cultivated over three years of hardship. I was no longer the frightened child who had been ripped from her world.
I am Leaf Green, a Trainer forged in the fires of adversity. I declared, releasing my partner from its Poké Ball, "Blastoise, I choose you!"
*Pop*
*THUD*
The familiar bulk of Blastoise materialized beside me, its stoic gaze fixed on Moltres. The water-type was my first and best Pokémon from Oak.
Even when I stole him, he trusted me fully with his innocent eyes. I won't betray my Pokémon's trust as I ordered, "Use Hydro Pump!"
*SPLASH*
Blastoise obeyed immediately, unleashing a torrent of water towards the fiery bird. The impact sent a spray of vapor into the air, momentarily obscuring Moltres.
*SSSSS*
The Legendary Pokémon responded with a furious burst of Flamethrower, the searing flames meeting the Hydro Pump in a spectacular clash. The cavern was filled with the sounds of hissing steam and crackling fire.
The battle began. And I'm going all in as I hurled ALL my Pokémon at this flaming bird with everything I got.
*BOOOOM*
I barked out commands, my voice steady despite the tremor in my hands. I ordered Ninetales to use Flamethrower, adding her fiery breath to the barrage. Gengar, with a mischievous grin, launched a Shadow Ball at the bird.
*BOOOM*
The attacks were strong, but Moltres was not one to be underestimated. The bird dodged most of the attacks, its powerful wings beating quickly.
*FWP*
Moltres retaliated with its own fiery attacks, the intense heat radiating outward, forcing us to constantly re-evaluate our strategy. I ordered Clefable to use Moonblast, hoping to deal it some damage.
*SSSSS*
But it didn't do much. Kangaskhan's attacks were no different.
*RMBL*
Each exchange caused the cavern to tremble around us. The Legendary Pokémon was putting up quite a fight.
I knew I had to be precise, to find the openings, to exploit the weaknesses. I switched tactics and ordered Blastoise to use Ice Beam just to try and see if it would work, since I knew that Ice-types would not be effective. But I wasn't planning on it.
*POOOF*
Steam erupted as it met Moltres' fire it evaporating into steam, covering both sides. Except the flame bird gave off its presence as I ordered, "NOW BLASTY!!! HYDRO PUMP!!!"
*SPLASH*
It landed, and Moltres was hit. It was a direct shot, and Moltres was quickly weakened as it crashed down.
Panting, it was finally weakened and exhausted. Now it was my chance.
I shouted, throwing the ball with all my might, "Go, Ultra Ball!"
*Woooosh*
*SMACK*
It struck Moltres square in the chest, wobbling for a moment before glowing and shaking. I held my breath, my heart pounding in my chest, as the ball clattered on the ground.
One… two… three… Click!
*BON*
The ball stopped shaking. It remained on the ground and silent, but still.
Silence was what I wanted. I shouted, a triumphant cry escaping my lips, "Yes!"
I had done it. I had captured Moltres.
The weight of my fear lifted, replaced by an overwhelming sense of exhilaration. I had faced my demon and conquered it.
Moltres was mine. The feeling of success was exhilarating.
With Moltres secured in its Poké Ball, I allowed myself a moment to soak it all in. The smell of sulfur and the echoes of battle still hung in the air.
My team, battered but unbowed, stood beside me, their loyalty a testament to their bond. They were my family, the ones who had stood by me through the storm.
The journey had been long and arduous, but I had finally emerged stronger, wiser, and more in control of my own destiny. With my heart filled with joy, I walked back through Victory Road, my steps lighter, my spirit renewed.
The capture of Moltres wasn't just a victory. It was a step towards the future, and I knew that the road ahead would be long and full of challenges.
After all, there were two more Legendary Birds to catch. I must get them. But now, I carried the torch of hope, and I was ready to face whatever came next.
The Indigo League loomed on the horizon, a beacon of hope and a proving ground for my strength. I would honor my fallen comrades, and I would stand tall.
I would compete, I would win, and I would show the world who I was. I would make my parents proud. I would find them.
And I would begin the journey of reclaiming my life and finding my true destiny. For I am Leaf Green of Pallet Town.
Starting over a new leaf in my life, huh? With this, I left Victory Road feeling I'm in charge of my destiny.
Huh? I blinked, confused, seeing a Pokémon Egg around here?
Making my way to it, I grabbed hold of it, pondering to myself. Then I slyly grinned as I muttered out loud, "Well… my little bro does need more Pokémon in his team. Can't be this weak if it was lying in here throughout the battle."
I've decided I'll give this to Silver. Hopefully he'll love!
/////
~Third POV~
[Johto Region, Meanwhile, Cianwood City – Outskirts]
The sun was shining brightly as Azure Sky stood at the edge of the sea, gazing out at the vast expanse of water that stretched before him. He was an experienced Pokémon Trainer with a team of powerful and loyal Pokémon by his side.
His trusty Pikachu and Eevee were always ready to defend him, and the mythical Celebi, with its incredible healing abilities, was a cherished member of the team, even if it didn't participate in battles.
As he set off to the open sea, the sea air filled his lungs, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore created a soothing melody. Azure's Pokémon were all in high spirits, eager to continue their adventure.
Pikachu and Eevee chattered excitedly as they walked alongside their trainer, while Celebi flitted about, its wings shimmering in the sunlight. The journey was not without its challenges.
The sea routes were notorious for their strong currents and fierce Pokémon. Azure and his team encountered numerous wild Pokémon, including schools of Goldeen and Staryu, which they battled and won.
As they navigated the winding path of Route 41, the group encountered a particularly strong current that threatened to sweep them off course. Azure quickly sprang into action, using his Blastoise's powerful hydro pump to create a counter-current and steady their path.
Lapras and Kingdra worked together, using their ice and water-type moves to calm the waves and create a safe passage. After what seemed like hours of navigating the treacherous waters, Azure and his team finally caught sight of the Cianwood City skyline at a far distance.
The city's iconic lighthouse stood tall, its beam cutting through the misty air like a shining sword. Azure felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over him as he led his team towards the city in front of them.
As they arrived in Cianwood City, Azure decided not to challenge the Gym immediately. Instead, he chose to spend the day bonding with his Pokémon, taking them on a stroll through the city's scenic coastal paths.
Pikachu and Eevee chased after seagulls, laughing and playing in the sun, while Celebi flitted about, using its powers to heal any injured Pokémon they encountered. Blastoise, Lapras, Kingdra, and Dragonite were all given a chance to rest and relax, their weary bodies soothed by the gentle ocean breeze.
Azure spent hours with each of them, discussing their strengths and weaknesses, and strategizing for the upcoming battle against Chuck, the Cianwood City Gym Leader. As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the city, Azure led his team to a secluded cove for some peace.
They spent the evening watching the stars twinkle to life, the sound of the waves lulling them into a peaceful slumber. Celebi settled beside Azure, its wings folded, as the trainer stroked its soft feathers, feeling grateful for the companionship and support of his loyal Pokémon.
He smiled as he began to plan, as he thought curiously, gazing at the sea, 'With this, I must think which Pokémon would be ideal to battle Chuck. He won't be a pushover, his the guy that trained Blue Oak after all.'
*Wooosh*
Just as Azure was starting to make his decision, a mist began to roll in, shrouding the outskirts of Cianwood City in a damp, gray veil. His Pokémon immediately came out from their Poke Balls and became alert, their senses on high alert as they detected the presence of something unusual.
*Pop*
Pikachu and Eevee stood up straight, their eyes fixed intently on the mist, while the other Pokémon formed a protective circle around Azure. And then, in an instant, the mist parted, and a magnificent creature emerged.
Suicune, the Legendary Pokémon, stood before them, its sleek, blue-gray coat glistening in the fading light with its long purple mane. Its eyes, piercing and intelligent, seemed to bore into Azure's very soul, as if searching for something.
Azure was taken aback, awestruck by the sudden appearance of this legendary creature in front of him. He had heard stories of Suicune, of its incredible speed and agility, its ability to purify water and heal the sick.
He had never thought to encounter it in person, and yet, here it was, standing before him as if summoned by some unseen force. Suicune regarded Azure and his Pokémon with a calm, almost regal demeanor, as if sizing them up.
Azure, sensing no hostility emanating from the legendary Pokémon, slowly rose to his feet, his eyes locked on Suicune's. Pikachu and Eevee remained perched on his shoulders, their eyes fixed on Suicune, while the other Pokémon watched with a mixture of fascination and wariness, each prepared for battle.
For a long, tense moment, the two parties simply regarded each other, the only sound the soft hum of Celebi's wings as it flitted about, tending to the plants and flowers. And then, without warning, Suicune responded telepathically, declaring, 'Human. We meet again. I, Suicune, the vassal of Lord Ho-Oh, have initiated your Rainbow Hero Trial! Pass my trial of Water through One-on-One Combat! Show me the one that Lord Ho-Oh deems to be the Rainbow Hero!'
Hearing this, Azure's eyes narrowed, holding his Key Stone in his glove. His eyes narrowed as he muttered seriously, "I just knew one of you guys would show up. But this time you picked the wrong fight."