Chapter 66: "Does It Really Make Sense for a Water Pokémon to Use Electric Moves?"
Chapter 66: "Does It Really Make Sense for a Water Pokémon to Use Electric Moves?"
After some thought, Hikaru decided not to switch.
Frogadier still hadn't showcased its full strength. A little paralysis wasn't enough to change that.
Without hesitation, Hikaru commanded Frogadier to use Thunder Shock.
When the small jolt of electricity emanated from Frogadier and zipped toward Pidgeotto, only to be easily dodged, the entire crowd was stunned.
---
Although the Thunder Shock was small and almost cute, it was still an electric move.
And it was coming from a Water-type Pokémon.
"Does this even make sense?"
Even more surprising...
After using Thunder Shock, Frogadier's movements became visibly smoother.
The paralysis... it seemed to have lessened?
---
Those more familiar with Pokémon mechanics quickly realized what was happening.
"That's Frogadier's hidden ability—Protean!"
One knowledgeable spectator eagerly explained to those around him:
"Protean is a hidden ability that lets a Pokémon change its type to match the move it just used!"
"So now Frogadier is an Electric-type?"
"Exactly!"
"This changes everything!"
---
Across the battlefield, Ash was dumbfounded.
His entire strategy had been built around paralyzing Frogadier.
Even if Pikachu had been defeated, Pidgeotto's aerial agility should've given it the edge.
But now...
"What is even happening right now?"
---
"Continue the match!"
Even Takashi, observing from above, was taken aback.
He wasn't surprised by Frogadier's hidden ability but rather...
"When did Frogadier learn Electric moves?"
As a seasoned Pokémon Champion, Takashi prided himself on his vast knowledge.
But this? Even he was beginning to doubt his education.
---
The battle resumed.
Frogadier stood poised on the floating platform, its confidence seemingly unshaken.
"Electro Ball!"
Lightning surged around Frogadier as it prepared its next move.
"Pidgeotto, counter it with Quick Attack!"
Ash, though momentarily stunned earlier, quickly regained his focus.
The bright electric energy forming around Frogadier was too dangerous to ignore.
Pidgeotto darted forward at breakneck speed, aiming to disrupt the attack.
But it was too late.
The Electro Ball was already fully charged.
The yellow orb of electricity shot forward, colliding with Pidgeotto mid-flight.
---
A massive wave of energy exploded on impact, sending ripples across the lake and kicking up water into the air.
As the mist settled, both Pokémon could be seen standing on separate platforms.
The crowd held their breath.
Finally, the tension broke when Pidgeotto let out a strained cry and staggered.
Though it tried to steady itself, it was evident it had reached its limit.
---
"Match over! Hikaru wins. Both trainers, please withdraw your Pokémon!"
Takashi's voice rang out, clear and authoritative, as he declared the result.
---
"You're really strong!"
After the match, Ash extended his hand to Hikaru.
"I'll beat you next time, though! See you at the national tournament!"
"I'll be waiting," Hikaru replied with a warm smile, shaking Ash's hand.
---
As Ash departed with Pikachu perched on his shoulder, his determination burned brighter than ever.
"Pikachu, we made it to the quarterfinals this time, but next time, we'll win it all!"
"Pika!" Pikachu responded enthusiastically, matching his trainer's resolve.
---
The crowd erupted into cheers and discussions, their eyes now firmly set on Hikaru as the likely champion.
But not everyone was convinced.
---
Many praised Frogadier's overwhelming strength and adaptability.
But skeptics pointed to Hikaru's reliance on Frogadier.
While Riolu had shown promise, its stamina remained a glaring weakness.
One particularly close match earlier had highlighted this issue, where an opponent used aerial tactics to exhaust Riolu and secure a win.
"Frogadier might be unbeatable on this field, but it's not invincible," one spectator murmured.
Still, Hikaru advanced to the semifinals, solidifying his place among the top four competitors.
---
At the resting area outside the arena, Hikaru was feeding his Pokémon.
"Just two more matches," he said, glancing at the drawing he had been keeping.
The image of him and Frogadier, sketched by that mysterious red-haired girl, felt oddly comforting.
"Kirlia~"
Kirlia floated nearby, curious about the picture.
"Who drew that?"
"A girl," Hikaru replied, patting Kirlia affectionately.
He looked up, only to freeze in surprise.
It was her.
The girl from the riverside.
---
Back in Shuimu City...
At Shuimu High School, classes had been suspended to celebrate Hikaru's accomplishments.
Every classroom was playing his battle recordings.
From Riolu's match against Snivy to Frogadier's double victories against Pikachu and Pidgeotto, each moment was analyzed in detail by teachers.
---
Even strategies Hikaru hadn't consciously employed were being praised as tactical genius.
"This kid... he might actually win the championship," one teacher remarked.
---
In the high school office, Yuki stood before her teacher, requesting leave.
"Are you sure about this?" her teacher, known for her strict demeanor, asked.
"Yes, I'm sure," Yuki replied firmly.
Her teacher sighed before handing her the leave form.
"Well, if that's your decision, we'll support it. Just remember, traveling isn't as safe as staying here. Always prioritize your safety."
Though stern, the teacher's tone softened as she spoke.
"Thank you, sensei," Yuki said, bowing respectfully.
---
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