章 8: CHAPTER EIGHT: RAUL 4

We Don't Stop, Till We Reach the Top!!

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1st March, 1998, Indigo Plateau…

The wind screamed past Raul's ears, sharp and merciless, as Garchomp streaked through the skies like a missile.

Its glider-like fins barely moved, cutting through the air with effortless precision. Raul leaned low against its ridged back, the bitter chill biting at his exposed face despite the warmth of his cinnamon bomber jacket. The jacket, scuffed and stained from the relentless week behind him, carried the lingering scent of earth and steel.

[A/N: Yes, Garchomp can indeed fly according to the anime and the newer games. But can't learn Fly]

"Just a little more, buddy," Raul muttered, his voice hoarse from shouting commands over roaring winds and the strain of long nights without sleep. Garchomp growled in response, the sound reverberating through its powerful body.

The Indigo Plateau loomed ahead, its distant peaks and terraces emerging like a beacon through the fading haze of twilight. Raul's heart pounded—not from the ride, but from the fear gnawing at the edges of his thoughts. Was he too late? After everything, after pushing himself and his team to the breaking point, would he make it in time?

He tightened his grip on Garchomp's spiny back and forced his gaze forward. His mind, however, refused to stay in the present.

Raul couldn't help but let his thoughts wander back to the past week—every ache, every battle, every moment that had brought him here. The Indigo Plateau seemed impossibly far away just days ago, almost as distant as his dream of standing among the world's strongest trainers.

It had all started when he finally found an Onix. THE ONIX!

…

*Flashback*

The cave was deathly silent, the air heavy with the scent of damp stone and minerals. Raul crouched low, his flashlight beam dancing over jagged walls as he navigated the labyrinth of tunnels.

He had been searching for days, tracking faint signs—disturbed earth, claw marks, and the occasional glimmer of shed rock scales. He had found and battled many, none came close to his vision.

And then, in the deepest chamber, he found it.

The Onix was massive, its serpentine body coiled tightly around a cluster of glittering crystals. Its dark gray hide shimmered faintly, and its eyes glowed with a quiet intensity. This wasn't just any Onix—this was the one Raul had been waiting for, the one that could become something extraordinary.

But capturing it hadn't been easy. Raul had thrown everything he had into the battle. His Ursaring had traded blows with the behemoth, enduring crushing strikes and retaliating with sheer force. By the time the dust settled, only one Pokémon was still barely standing, and the Ultra Ball in Raul's hand clicked shut with finality.

Raul had smiled then, exhaustion pulling at his features. "You're gonna be incredible," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the sound of his own heartbeat.

…

Training the Onix to evolve into a Steelix in just one week had been madness, but Raul had never backed down from a challenge.

With the help of his team, they had pushed the Onix to its limits. Hours of sparring, hauling massive boulders, and learning to harness the raw energy of the Iron Tail move had transformed the Onix into a force of nature.

Raul remembered the moment it happened vividly.

The sun was setting over a rocky plateau, casting the landscape in hues of molten gold. Raul stood a safe distance away, his heart in his throat as Onix charged forward, its tail glowing a brilliant silver. The impact of its Iron Tail shattered the boulder into a thousand shards, and for a moment, the world seemed to hold its breath.

Then, a brilliant light engulfed the Onix. Raul shielded his eyes, his pulse hammering as the silhouette within began to shift and solidify. When the light faded, a massive Steelix stood in its place, its metallic body gleaming in the fading sunlight.

Raul had fallen to his knees, laughing breathlessly. "We did it," he had said, his voice trembling with equal parts relief and pride.

But the celebration was short-lived. A quick glance at his PokéGear told him that time was running out. The Indigo Plateau wasn't just far—it was a race against time!

…

It had been a desperate moment, one that left Raul pacing in agitation as he racked his brain for a solution. Time was slipping through his fingers like sand, and no matter how he spun the situation, the distance to the Indigo Plateau seemed insurmountable.

Finally, with a frustrated sigh, Raul reached for his PokéGear. His thumb hesitated over the contacts list, but there was only one person he could call, even if it meant swallowing his pride.

After two rings, the gruff, familiar voice on the other end erupted into laughter.

"Well, if it isn't my younger brat? What's got you calling, huh? Shouldn't you be prepping for the Indigo League? Or don't tell me—cold feet already? HAHAHAHA!"

Raul's teeth clenched in irritation, but he managed to keep his voice even. "Glad to talk to you too, Dad, and no, nothing like that… I'm in a bit of a pickle… You see… I finally evolved my Steelix, but I might've cut things too close. I don't think I can make it to the Plateau in time..."

There was a pause, and then a scoff came through the line, dripping with sarcasm.

"Oi, brat. Did you eat too much dirt training that Steelix and forget you've got a Garchomp?"

Raul blinked, baffled. "What's my Garchomp got to do with this?"

A deep, exaggerated sigh echoed back. "Brat… Garchomps can fly. And they're not just fast—they're blazing."

The revelation hit Raul like a Thunderbolt. His jaw dropped, the gears in his head turning slowly. "…Right. Garchomps can fly," he muttered, as if saying it out loud would help him comprehend the monumental oversight.

He pinched the bridge of his nose, letting out a long, exasperated breath. "Thanks, Dad. I—uh—I'll make it in time. And I'll win this league, you'll see."

The voice on the other end softened, shedding its teasing edge. "We all believe in you, son. We'll be there when you make it to the finals. Go out there and do your best—we're behind you."

A small, genuine smile tugged at Raul's lips. "Thanks, Dad."

He ended the call, staring at the PokéGear for a moment longer, feeling a mixture of gratitude and renewed energy. No hesitation clouded his next move. Raul reached for Garchomp's Poké Ball, the smooth surface cool against his palm.

In a flash of light, the dragon materialized, its sleek, powerful form cutting an imposing figure against the fading evening light. Its sharp yellow eyes fixed on Raul with a piercing intensity, immediately sensing the urgency in his expression.

Raul stepped forward, resting a hand against Garchomp's polished scales, his touch firm but reassuring. "I know it's a lot to ask," he said softly, his voice carrying the weight of both trust and desperation. "But we don't have another choice. We need to fly—fast." He pointed toward the distant silhouette of the Indigo Plateau.

Garchomp let out a low, guttural roar in response, crouching low to the ground. Without hesitation, Raul climbed onto its back, gripping tightly as the dragon shifted, coiling its muscles in preparation. Then, with a burst of power, Garchomp launched into the sky, its fins cutting through the air with razor precision.

The sensation was unlike anything Raul had ever experienced. Garchomp didn't glide like a Pidgeot or flap its wings like a Salamence—it shot forward like a jet, its streamlined body slicing through the atmosphere at breakneck speed. The wind roared in Raul's ears, tugging at his bomber jacket, but he leaned forward, trusting Garchomp completely.

Garchomp tore across the sky, the world below blurring into a mosaic of greens and browns as the Indigo Plateau loomed ever closer.

*Flashback Ended*

…

Now, with the Plateau growing closer with every passing second, Raul felt the exhaustion in his bones. He hadn't slept properly in days, and every muscle in his body ached from the strain of the past week. But there was no room for complaints, no time to dwell on his fatigue.

He adjusted the strap of his bag, its weight a constant reminder of the Pokéballs within. His team was ready, and so was he.

The Indigo Plateau's grand entrance came into view, the massive archway carved into the mountainside, flanked by statues of legendary Pokémon. Trainers and spectators alike bustled about, their energy palpable even from this distance. Raul let out a shaky breath, relief mingling with determination.

Garchomp began it's descent, it's sleek body tilting slightly as she adjusted her trajectory. As they landed with a controlled skid, Raul slid off it's back, his boots hitting the cobblestone path with a satisfying thud.

He patted Garchomp's neck, a grateful smile tugging at his lips. "Thank you, buddy, you saved my butt!" he said softly. The dragon huffed in response, it's sharp gaze scanning their surroundings protectively.

Without wasting another moment, Raul turned toward the registration desk. His legs felt like lead, his breaths shallow, but his resolve burned brighter than ever.

He was here. He had made it in time. And now, it was time to take on Kanto and win his first league title.

…

Raul's boots hit the polished stone floor of the Indigo Plateau's registration hall with a dull thud. His body ached from the ride, his bomber jacket creased and dusted with fine debris from the winds. The grand structure rose high above him, bustling with trainers and their Pokémon. \

He barely had time to admire the place, though—the sight of the long line at the registration desk sent a jolt of panic through him.

Adjusting his satchel, Raul hurried toward the counter, weaving through the crowd. His heart pounded as he finally reached the end of the line. Up ahead, a Nurse Joy stood behind the counter, her usual kind demeanor evident even in the face of chaos.

When it was his turn, she greeted him with her ever-calm smile. "Hello! Welcome to the Indigo League registration desk. May I have your name and Trainer ID?"

Raul nodded quickly, fumbling for his Pokégear. "I am Raul, from Canalave City," he said, handing over the device and his ID card. "I—I'm sorry if I'm late, but—"

Nurse Joy waved off his concern gently, her pink curls bouncing with the motion. "Not to worry. You've just made it. Let me process this for you."

As she worked, Raul couldn't help but glance around. The hall was alive with trainers of all kinds, each exuding their own unique aura. Some looked confident, others nervous, but all shared the same burning determination.

He spotted a few familiar faces from past battles but didn't linger on them. His focus returned to Nurse Joy when she handed back his ID and a slip of paper.

"Here you go. Your Pokémon will need to be registered as well," she said, gesturing to the six Pokéballs he had placed on the counter. She scanned each one swiftly, her movements practiced and efficient. "If you want to switch your pokemon around, you need to register them before the battle, okay? Mmmmm… All set! Good luck in the tournament, Raul."

He exhaled deeply, relief washing over him as he stuffed the paper and Pokéballs back into his satchel. "Thank you," he said earnestly before stepping aside to let the next trainer through.

Raul turned and paused, taking in the large digital screens displaying matchups for the first round. His eyes quickly caught a group huddled by one of the screens—a familiar mop of raven hair, an orange ponytail, and a red cap tilted just slightly off-center.

A grin broke across Raul's face. "Well look who I have found…"

He approached cautiously, weaving through the crowd until he was close enough to confirm it. Sure enough, Ash Ketchum, Pikachu perched on his shoulder, stood in the middle of the group, pointing animatedly at the screen. Misty stood beside him, arms crossed but smiling, while Brock nodded along.

Raul suddenly realized that Misty didn't have a Togepi in this timeline.

'Did they not go to grandpa canyon? Now that I think about it, there has been no news about that? Does Blake know?' Raul thought silently.

As Raul was thinking, Ash had already spotted him.

"Raul!" Ash's voice rang out as he spotted his old friend approaching. His trademark grin stretched wide as he waved enthusiastically, Pikachu chiming in with a cheerful "Pika pi!"

"About time you showed up!" Misty teased, her tone light but her smirk sharp. "What did I tell you about cutting it close? Did you really risk missing the League just to chase down an Onix?"

Raul raised his hands defensively, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Hey, I didn't plan to be late. The training took longer than I expected, and then there was the whole 'figuring out how to get here without missing the registration deadline' part."

Brock folded his arms, raising an eyebrow. "Let me guess. You waited until the last minute to leave Mount Hideaway, didn't you?"

"Well… I, uh…" Raul scratched the back of his neck, his grin faltering under their knowing stares. "Okay, fine, I may have misjudged how much time I had. But in my defense, that Onix wasn't going to train itself and evolve!"

Ash laughed excitedly, clapping Raul on the shoulder. "Still, you made it. And you've got a Steelix now?! That's awesome! I knew you'd find an Onix and evolve it! I can't wait to see it!"

"Yeah, but next time, don't wait until the eleventh hour to show up," Misty added, rolling her eyes. "I mean, come on, Raul. What would you have done if you missed the registration? Blamed your Steelix?"

Raul chuckled, shaking his head. "Alright, alright, I get it. Lesson learned. No more cutting it close. Besides," he added with a grin, "I made it here in one piece, didn't I?"

"Barely," Misty shot back, though her smile softened.

"So," Ash said, clearly eager to change the subject, "how's the Steelix? Did you manage to teach it any new moves?"

"Oh, you bet I did," Raul said, his voice brimming with pride. "It's a beast! Took a while to get used to its quirks, but it's worth it. I can't wait to see how it does in the League."

Brock nodded approvingly. "That's great to hear. Steelix can be tricky to handle, especially when they're fresh out of evolution. Sounds like you've done a good job bonding with it."

Raul shrugged, his grin widening. "It's been a ride, that's for sure. But yeah, we're in sync now. I think we've got a real shot at winning this!"

"That's the spirit!" Ash said, pumping his fist. "We've did our own fair share of training, so you better watch out, as I will take the win! Right buddy?" Ash looked at his Pikachu which answered with equal enthusiasm!

Raul's eyes flicked to the digital screen behind them, scanning the list of names. "Speaking of, what about you guys? Who are you up against?"

Ash turned toward the screen, pointing at his own name. "I've got 2 rookie trainers and a guy from last years top 16, for my preliminary matches. I am sure we will win, I think. Pikachu and I are ready for anything!"

"Pika pika!" Pikachu agreed, hopping on Ash's shoulder with an energetic nod.

"Don't get too overconfident," Misty said with a frown. "You remember what happened last time you underestimated your opponent."

Ash huffed, crossing his arms. "Come on, Misty, give me some credit. I've learned a lot since then!" His eyes turned serious as he seemed to remember his loss against Blake, "And I have grown… a lot since that day… And don't forget that you guys and Prof. Oak helped me a lot to prepare this time!"

Brock chuckled. "Just don't let your ego get in the way, Ash. Every trainer here wants to win as much as you do."

"What about you, Raul?" Misty asked, nudging him lightly. "Who's your first match?"

Raul's gaze returned to the screen, his finger tracing down the list until it landed on his name. "Looks like I'm up against someone named Terry Jackson. Hoenn trainer."

"Terry, huh?" Brock said, his expression thoughtful. "I think I remember him. He's decent, battled me for his first badge in Kanto, but his ace is a Ludicolo, which might become a problem for you. You confident?."

"Ludicolo…" Raul murmured, already running through potential strategies in his mind. "Water and Grass, huh? Sounds like a good challenge. Thanks for the tip, Brock." Raul grinned at the end.

"No problem," Brock said with a smile.

Raul's focus sharpened as he thought about the battles ahead. "Alright. Terry and his Ludicolo won't know what hit them. I've got this."

'If I can't handle simple type disadvantage like this, how can I reach Blake's level?'

Ash grinned, his competitive spirit flaring. "That's the Raul I know! We'll both crush our competition and meet each other in the finals. Right, Pikachu?"

"Pika!"

Raul laughed, shaking his head. "You've got big dreams, Ash. Let's just take it one match at a time."

"Fine, fine," Ash relented, though his grin didn't falter.

As the group made their way toward the nearby food stalls, their chatter grew livelier. Raul felt a sense of ease settle over him, the familiar banter and camaraderie with his friends a welcome reprieve from the tension of the upcoming battles.

Tomorrow, the Indigo League would begin, and with it, Raul's chance to show his strength. But tonight, he'd enjoy the company and of course the delicious food!

…

2nd March, 1998, Indigo Plateau Conference

The stadium buzzed with the electric energy of the crowd, trainers and spectators alike roaring with anticipation. The massive screens displayed the current matchup: Raul Moreno vs. Terry Jackson.

Raul stood at his platform, rolling his shoulders as he stared down at Terry, who was visibly sweating on the opposite side of the battlefield. His cinnamon-colored bomber jacket caught the sunlight, giving him an almost golden aura of confidence. Ursaring stood on the field looking regal, its muscular frame radiating raw power.

Across the field, Terry clutched his last Pokéball, his face a mask of desperation. He had no other options—this was it. "Ludicolo, it's up to you now!" he shouted, tossing the ball with all his might.

A burst of light revealed Ludicolo, the carefree-looking Water/Grass Pokémon. It danced slightly as it landed, but its trainer's tense demeanor showed this wasn't a time for fun.

Raul's lips curled into a grin, his hand resting on the railing of his platform. "So, this is it, huh? Let's see what you've got, Terry." He glanced at Ursaring, who growled low and steady, its claws flexing in anticipation. "You ready, buddy?"

Ursaring let out a deep, rumbling roar that seemed to shake the battlefield itself.

"Ludicolo, don't let them intimidate you!" Terry shouted. "Use Leech Seed!"

The cheerful-looking Pokémon twirled and fired a spray of glowing seeds toward Ursaring.

Raul's eyes narrowed. "Ursaring, Dodge it! Then use Slash!"

With surprising agility, Ursaring leapt to the side, the seeds embedding harmlessly into the ground. It lunged forward, its claws gleaming like razors as it swiped at Ludicolo.

"Counter with Protect!" Terry yelled.

A shimmering green barrier enveloped Ludicolo just in time, Ursaring's claws bouncing off with a sharp crack. Raul smirked, his voice rising with excitement. "Nice reaction, but how long can you keep that up? Ursaring, Hammer Arm!"

Ursaring's arm glowed white as it brought it down with immense force. The barrier shattered, the shockwave sending Ludicolo skidding back.

Terry clenched his fists. "Ludicolo, don't give up! Use Energy Ball!"

Ludicolo spun gracefully, forming a vibrant orb of green energy before hurling it toward Ursaring.

Raul's heart pounded in his chest, but his voice was steady. "Block it with Hyper Beam!"

A brilliant orange beam erupted from Ursaring's mouth, colliding with the Energy Ball mid-air. The two attacks exploded in a dazzling burst of light, drawing gasps from the audience. As the smoke cleared, Ursaring stood firm, its breath heavy but its stance unwavering.

"Now's your chance, Ludicolo! Use Rain Dance!" Terry called, a spark of hope in his voice.

Ludicolo began its rhythmic dance, summoning dark clouds overhead. Rain poured down, drenching the battlefield in seconds. And with the rain Ludicolo's ability Rain Dish activated healing it from it's injuries.

Raul remained calm, his grin widening. "Good strategy but, this won't affect Ursaring. Let's show them what we're made of! Use Bulk Up!"

Ursaring's muscles tensed, its already formidable frame growing even more imposing as it roared to the heavens.

Terry's desperation was evident. "Ludicolo, Hydro Pump! Full power!"

The rain-boosted attack shot out with tremendous force, a high-pressure torrent of water aiming directly at Ursaring.

"Stand your ground!" Raul commanded, his voice cutting through the chaos. Ursaring crossed its arms, bracing itself against the powerful attack. Though it slid back slightly, its resolve was unshaken.

"Now, Thunder Punch!" Raul shouted.

Electricity crackled around Ursaring's fist as it charged forward. The rain only amplified the attack, and with a thunderous impact, it struck Ludicolo square in the chest. The Water/Grass Pokémon cried out, its dance faltering as it crumpled to the ground.

"Ludicolo is unable to battle! The winner is Ursaring! Trainer Terry is out of Pokemon, the winner is Raul!" the referee declared, his voice barely audible over the deafening cheers of the crowd.

Raul clenched his fists, his grin turning into a triumphant shout. "We did it, Ursaring!"

Ursaring raised its head, letting out a ferocious roar that echoed throughout the stadium. The sound sent chills down Terry's spine, but Raul only felt pride. His bond with his Pokémon had never felt stronger.

Terry returned Ludicolo with a heavy sigh. "You're incredible, Raul. I didn't stand a chance."

Raul nodded respectfully. "You gave it your all. That's what matters."

With that, Raul left the battlefield, his confidence soaring as he prepared for the next rounds.

…

Raul's next two battles were swift and decisive. His Pokémon worked like a well-oiled machine, their synergy overwhelming their opponents. Nidoking and Camerupt dominated the battlefield, while Garchomp's raw speed and power left the crowd in awe.

By the end of the day, Raul stood victorious in the Round of 32, earning his place among the top contenders.

Ash had similar success, his battles showcasing his unique battle style, new found determination and the trust he shared with Pikachu and his team. The two friends crossed paths in the waiting area, their excitement visible.

"Made it to the next round, huh?" Ash said, his grin as wide as ever.

Raul chuckled. "You too. I watched your battle Ash, you have improved a lot."

"Of course!" Ash replied, punching the air. "We're not stopping until we reach the top!"

Raul nodded, his eyes gleaming with determination. "I'll see you there."

…

The matchups for the Round of 16 were displayed on the massive screen, and Raul and Ash stood side by side as they scanned the list.

Raul's name appeared first: Raul vs. Ritchie.

"Ritchie…" Raul murmured, recognizing the name from his past life. "This is going to be interesting." He had a grin on his lips.

Ash's eyes widened as his own matchup came into view: Ash Ketchum vs. Gary Oak. He turned serious and felt a bit conflicted.

"Gary…" Ash's voice trailed off, his usual energy replaced with a mix of seriousness and determination. Gary was his old friend and first rival after all.

Raul noticed his friend's reaction and placed a hand on his shoulder. "You've got this, Ash. Just stay focused."

Ash's frown shifted into a confident smirk. "You're right. This is just another step toward the top."

"Exactly," Raul said, his grin returning. "And when we're done, we'll meet in the finals. Just like we planned."

"Deal," Ash replied, their fists bumping in a show of solidarity.

The tension in the air was electric, but for Raul and Ash, it was fuel for the fire. Tomorrow, One will fight against their first rival, and the other plans on crushing his opponent and reach his destined title.

Tomorrow couldn't come faster.

…

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[A/N: Apologies for the delay in uploading! I had an election to prepare for and attend, and I'm excited to share that I was elected as the Secretary of the Student Board at my university (basically the student council). Time to throw a lot of parties for the students I guess xD

On another note, you can expect the next chapter in 5-6 hours—I'm already working on it!

Enjoy, and see you all soon!]