155. Opponents

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Otoshi looked at the other contestants and said to Kai, "Since I've made it this far, as the man who defeated me, I actually hope I don't face you too early next time!"

"Oh?" Kai raised an eyebrow. "Why is that?"

Otoshi chuckled. "I watched your earlier match. You've grown stronger since we first battled, and it feels like you still have room to improve. Back then, I wondered, if I faced such a strong opponent, could I really win? But the more I think about it, the more it fuels my fighting spirit! So, I hope we can face each other in the finals!"

"I see," Kai replied with a nod. "It seems we both need to give it our all and make sure we don't get eliminated before then!"

At that moment, the contestants began taking their fishing rods and selecting spots around the pool. Once in position, they cast their lines into the water.

Kai didn't waste time. He grabbed the fishing rod handed to him by Chloe, mimicked the others, and cast his line into the pool.

A group of Magikarp swam aimlessly below the surface, looking lifeless. According to the staff, the rods provided by the League used special bait designed to attract Magikarp quickly.

However, Kai had never fished before, and his initial attempts were clumsy.

Fortunately, Misty, a water-type Pokémon expert, was nearby and eager to help. With her guidance, Kai quickly learned the basics and some important techniques.

But surprisingly, despite Magikarp swimming past his hook several times, none took the bait.

Meanwhile, the other contestants were having frequent success and advancing to the next stage.

Ash, in particular, was incredibly lucky. The moment he cast his line, a Magikarp bit the hook! Overjoyed, Ash reeled it in, laughing as he held it up proudly.

But when the staff announced the matchups, his smile faded.

"Contestant Ash, your number is A3," said the staff member, pointing to the screen. "Your next opponent is also A3 Richie!"

"What!?"

Ash and Richie exchanged shocked looks, their hearts sinking. They had just become close friends, and now they would have to battle each other for a spot in the next round.

The atmosphere grew tense as the two stood silently, processing the news.

Kai shook his head, watching the scene unfold. What a twist of fate.

Still, he had no time to worry about others. With most contestants already matched, his hook remained empty.

"This is strange," Chloe remarked, squatting beside Kai. "The bait is fine, your hand is steady, and the rod isn't moving too much. So why aren't these Magikarp biting?"

"Who knows," Kai replied, frowning. "Everyone else has their matchups already. At this rate, I might have to dive in and grab a Magikarp myself!"

Misty laughed before leaning closer to the water, studying the Magikarp's behaviour. "I think I know what's happening, Kai. You've been around Gyarados, right? Magikarp may seem mindless, but they're naturally scared of 'Gyarados' presence. Maybe they sense that aura on you."

"Really?" Kai scratched his head, intrigued. "So what now? Will I be stuck here until everyone else finishes?"

Hearing this, Haunter peeked out from the shadows, rolling its eyes. Without a word, it used its powers to telekinetically drag a Magikarp toward the hook.

The fish, as if compelled by an invisible force, opened its mouth and latched onto the bait. Haunter then vanished back into the shadows, unnoticed by anyone.

"Whoa! It bit the hook!" Kai exclaimed, reeling it in quickly.

The staff examined the Magikarp, inputting its details into the computer. "Contestant Kai, your number is A4. Your next opponent is Contestant Jim."

Kai turned to the screen and saw an unfamiliar young man with green, curly hair. While he didn't recognize Jim, anyone who made it to the top 16 was bound to be formidable.

With the matchups finalized, Kai returned the fishing rod and glanced at the schedule.

If Ash defeated Richie, his next match would be against Kai. Facing back-to-back battles with friends would undoubtedly take an emotional toll on Ash.

After the lottery concluded, Ash left the area silently, his usual energy replaced by a heavy heart.

Concerned, Misty and Brock briefly greeted Kai before following Ash to console him.

Kai sighed, turning to Chloe. "Well, now that we know the matchups, let's head out."

Kai's match with Jim was scheduled for tomorrow afternoon, giving him ample time to research his opponent's strategies and weaknesses.

Later, back in the dormitory, Kai's Dratini was playfully coiled around Chloe's Wailord plushie. Upon seeing him, Dratini squeaked happily and flew to his side.

Over time, Dratini's shy personality had improved significantly. While they still felt nervous around strangers, Kai believed it would be ready to travel and battle confidently after the Indigo League.

Just as he settled down, Kai received a message from a friend in Kalos. The message included a link to a news article:

"Trainer from Kalos Travels Thousands of Miles to Compete in the Indigo League!"

Though the article hadn't gained much traction in Kalos, the photo and story excited Kai's friend, who had been cheering him on from afar.

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