Pokémon: A Tale Of Time (Volume One: Zephyr)

Chapter Eighteen - The Journey To Violet City

"Poliwag, use Water Gun!" the girl commanded, her voice clear and confident. The small blue Pokémon opened its mouth, releasing a powerful jet of water that splashed over Nidoran, forcing her back a few steps.

Nidoran shook off the water, determination burning in her eyes. The girl nodded approvingly. "Your Nidoran is pretty tough," she said, a hint of admiration in her voice. "But she won't be enough to defeat my Poliwag. We've been training hard together."

Raido clenched his fists, his mind racing. He needed a strategy. "Nidoran, get close to Poliwag!" he shouted.

Nidoran darted forward, zigzagging to avoid the relentless Water Gun jets that Poliwag continued to fire. Each burst of water missed its mark as Nidoran agilely dodged from side to side, closing the distance with every step. Raido's heart raced with anticipation, watching his partner's nimble movements.

"Now, Nidoran! Land a good hit!" Raido commanded.

With a powerful leap, Nidoran launched herself into the air, her legs tensed and ready. As she descended upon Poliwag, she executed a swift Double Kick, her back legs striking Poliwag square in the face. The first kick landed with a resounding thud, sending Poliwag reeling. The second kick followed immediately, even more forceful than the first, and Poliwag hurtled through the air.

Poliwag crashed into a nearby tree, the impact shaking loose a flurry of leaves. It slid down the trunk, coming to rest upside down at the base of the tree, clearly knocked out.

The young trainer rushed over to her fallen Poliwag, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Poliwag... I can't believe we lost," she murmured, gently cradling her Pokémon. Nidoran trotted back to Raido, jumping into his arms. He hugged her tightly, pride swelling in his chest.

"You did it, Nidoran! Another victory!" Raido cheered, his voice filled with excitement. Nidoran nuzzled him affectionately, her ears twitching happily.

The girl stood up, holding Poliwag in her arms. "You and your Nidoran are an amazing team," she admitted, a smile breaking through her initial shock. "I don't have any money to give you for winning, but I do have something valuable." She reached into her bag and pulled out a small, brightly colored candy.

"This is a Rare Candy," she explained, holding it out to Raido. "It's said to immediately strengthen a Pokémon upon eating it. It's all I have to offer, but you deserve it for that battle."

Raido's eyes widened in amazement. He had heard about Rare Candies but had never seen one in person. "Wow, that's really cool! Thank you!" He took the candy, showing it to Nidoran. "You hear that, girl? This can make you even stronger!"

Nidoran chirped excitedly, her eyes sparkling with interest. Raido carefully stored the Rare Candy in his backpack, making sure it was secure. "Thanks again," he said to the young trainer. "Good luck with your training!"

She smiled and waved as Raido and Nidoran continued their journey along Route 30. The path stretched out before them, a mixture of rolling hills and dense woods. Raido felt a renewed sense of purpose. They had proven themselves in battle once again, and he knew there would be many more challenges ahead.

They passed by a pair of Sentret playfully chasing each other up a tree trunk, their bushy tails flicking in the sunlight. A Wingull swooped low overhead, its wings cutting through the air with a gentle rustle. Raido pointed out a Wurmple inching its way along a branch, its bright reddish body standing out against the brown bark.

"Look at all these Pokémon, Nidoran," Raido said, excitement in his voice. "It's amazing how diverse Johto is."

Their next battle of the day was against a young boy named Joey Jr. who eagerly challenged Raido with his Rattata. The small, purple rodent was quick and agile, but Nidoran's newfound strength and strategy proved too much for it. With a well-placed Poison Sting followed by a powerful Double Kick, Nidoran secured the victory.

"Wow, your Nidoran is really strong!" Joey Jr. exclaimed, recalling his fainted Rattata. "I need to train harder!"

Raido smiled, feeling proud of Nidoran's progress. "Keep at it, Joey. You'll get there."

Further up the route, they encountered another trainer, a girl named Sindy, who sent out her Bellsprout. The vine Pokémon swayed gracefully, its large leaves ready to strike. Raido commanded Nidoran to use Peck, knowing that the flying-type move would be super effective. Nidoran's sharp beak struck true, and despite Bellsprout's attempts to retaliate with Vine Whip, it was no match for Nidoran's persistence and strength.

"You've got great tactics," Sindy admitted, returning her defeated Bellsprout. "I'll remember this for next time."

Raido thanked her and continued on, feeling more confident with each victory. Nidoran trotted beside him, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

As they ventured into the northern parts of Route 30, the scenery became even more picturesque. The trees grew taller, their branches intertwining to form a natural canopy that provided a pleasant shade. They could hear the distant sound of a stream babbling nearby, adding to the serene atmosphere.

However, their peaceful walk was interrupted by a commotion up ahead. A crowd had gathered outside a small house nestled in a wooded area. Raido and Nidoran exchanged curious glances before quickening their pace to see what was happening.

As they approached, they saw a man standing on a makeshift podium. He was wearing a black suit that contrasted sharply with the natural surroundings. His presence commanded attention, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the man announced, his voice clear and authoritative. "I am pleased to announce the beginning of this weeks exciting Pokémon competition!"

Raido and Nidoran edged closer, their interest piqued. The man's announcement had captured the attention of everyone present, and the air was thick with anticipation.

"The winner of this competition," the man continued, "will be granted a valuable prize!"