Pokémon (Kanto Adventure)

Chapter 18: Rising Tide of Success

The sun peeked over the horizon, casting a warm glow on Cerulean City. Today was the day of the battle rounds, and all the contestants were up bright and early, buzzing with excitement and nerves. Paige, Dylan, and Carson made their way to the contest hall, where the seats were already filling up with eager spectators.

Backstage, Dylan and Carson were prepping Paige like she was the main event at a wrestling match.

"Alright, Paige, listen up!" Dylan said, puffing out his chest as if he were her coach. "Today, you're not just fighting for the ribbon. You're fighting for glory!"

"Glory and snacks!" Carson added, pulling out a granola bar. "You know what they say: a full stomach is a happy Pokémon trainer!"

Paige chuckled, shaking her head. "Thanks, guys. I think I'll focus on the battle part. But maybe save some snacks for after?"

Dylan dramatically placed a hand on his heart. "What kind of coach would I be if I didn't prepare you for the ultimate victory feast?"

As Paige rolled her eyes playfully, they suddenly heard laughter from the other side of the stage. Edward and Lionel, still in disguise, were fussing over Helena, aka Heather.

"Helena, darling!" Edward exclaimed in a high-pitched voice, pretending to adjust her nonexistent glasses. "You simply must maintain your poise. Remember, confidence is key!"

"Right, because nothing says 'fear me' like a pair of fake spectacles!" Lionel added, winking at Helena. "And make sure to throw in a few dramatic flourishes during your battle! Just don't trip over your own feet while doing it."

Helena shot them a playful glare. "You guys are ridiculous! This is serious business! I can't have you making me look like a clown in front of everyone!"

"Too late for that!" Edward teased, chuckling. "You've already got the costume!"

As they continued their playful banter, the atmosphere backstage was electric. Contestants were buzzing with excitement, and Paige felt ready to battle. With Dylan and Carson rallying behind her, and Edward and Lionel goofing around with Helena, they all shared a laugh, easing the tension in the air.

"Okay, okay! Enough with the comedy show!" Paige said, trying to focus. "Let's get serious for a moment. I want to do my best!"

Dylan saluted her. "Aye, Captain! We're ready to go! Let's show them what we've got!"

With laughter still echoing in their ears, the contestants prepared for the battles ahead, eager to make their mark on the Cerulean City Contest.

Zack strode confidently onto the stage, the audience erupting into cheers. "Welcome back, everyone!" he called out, raising his arms to quiet the crowd. "As you know, yesterday was the appeals rounds, where our contestants showed off their Pokémon's moves. Today is the battle rounds—the most exciting part, in my opinion!"

The audience buzzed with anticipation, eager for the action to begin. "Today, sixteen contestants will battle it out for a chance to win the Cascade Ribbon! Will they have what it takes?" Zack paused for dramatic effect, scanning the crowd with a grin. "Without further ado, let's get the battle rounds started!"

The first match featured a trainer from Pewter City with a brawny Onix against a challenger from Cerulean City wielding a nimble Pidgeotto. The battle started with Pidgeotto soaring through the air, launching a flurry of Quick Attacks, but Onix retaliated with its powerful Rock Throw. Despite the aerial advantage, Pidgeotto struggled to withstand Onix's heavy hits, ultimately falling to a decisive Stone Edge.

Next up was a trainer from Fuchsia City using a fierce Kingler against a determined coordinator from Viridian City with a crafty Gardevoir. The battle unfolded as Kingler unleashed its Crabhammer, but Gardevoir countered with Psychic, sending Kingler flying. With a flurry of dazzling moves, Gardevoir proved too strategic and agile, leading to a swift defeat for Kingler.