Chapter 161: 161. Lance

Words : 949 Updated : Sep 29th, 2025

--- Boom! Boom! On the day of the finals, a dazzling array of fireworks lit up the sky above the Indigo Stadium, signalling the start of the much-anticipated event. The entire arena was filled with the lingering scent of gunpowder, further electrifying the already enthusiastic crowd. Cheers erupted from the stands, as the audience became immersed in the excitement of the grand finale! Dozens of mascot Pokémon costumes appeared from both sides of the stadium, parading around the venue and waving to the spectators. Attentive fans quickly noticed that these mascots represented the Pokémon used by the two finalists during the competition. For Professor Cerise and his wife, this was their first time experiencing such a lively atmosphere. Seated in the audience, they glanced around in awe. "So, this is the Indigo League? The energy here is unbelievable!" Professor Cerise marveled. The noise was so overwhelming that even though Chloe was sitting right next to him, she had to cup her hands around her mouth and yell to be heard. "This is just the beginning! Wait until the battles start. Then, you'll see how passionate the crowd really gets!" Just then, thousands of balloons were released into the air. They floated higher and higher until they disappeared into the bright blue sky. The crowd roared in amazement. However, unlike the others, Sabrina sat quietly, her arms crossed. She appeared out of place in the frenzied atmosphere, her calm demeanour contrasting sharply with the excitement around her. After all, someone as reserved as Sabrina wasn't exactly suited for such a noisy environment. Chloe, on the other hand, had gradually adjusted to the energetic atmosphere during the preliminary rounds. Without that experience, she might have been just as uncomfortable as Sabrina. Inside the stadium, President Charles Goodshow officially opened the ceremony with a brief speech. His words were followed by the booming voice of the announcer echoing across the arena: "Ladies and gentlemen, the moment we've all been waiting for, the final battle of the Indigo League, is about to begin! After countless thrilling matches, the two strongest trainers have emerged, and today, they will compete for the title of champion!" Applause thundered through the stadium, and when it subsided, the announcer continued. "Joining me today as a guest commentator is none other than a true legend, a champion of both the Kanto and Johto regions and one of the Elite Four. Please welcome Lance!" The crowd froze for a moment, stunned by the announcement, before erupting into deafening cheers. Lance, the Dragon Master, had a reputation as both a powerful trainer and a charismatic leader. His appearance was an unexpected treat for the audience, elevating the prestige of the event even further. Lance greeted the crowd with a smile. "Hello, everyone! I'm honoured to be here at Indigo Stadium to commentate on this incredible match." The announcer beamed. "Lance, you're a busy man. Do you usually keep up with the Indigo League?" "Of course," Lance replied with a chuckle. "I may not catch every match, but I always watch the highlights. Seeing so many talented trainers shine on this stage is truly inspiring for me as a senior trainer." The announcer nodded. "Could you share your thoughts on the two finalists?" "Certainly," Lance said, pausing thoughtfully. "Andrew has shown great skill throughout the competition. His Pokémon have been impressive, and despite a few losses in earlier rounds, he's proven himself to be an exceptional trainer." The announcer then asked, "And what about Kai? What's your opinion of him?" Lance's answer surprised everyone. "This isn't my first time seeing Kai in action, so I know a bit about him. His strength and strategy are remarkable, and his performance in this tournament has been extraordinary. In fact, if the opportunity arises, I'd love to battle him myself!" The announcer and audience alike were stunned by the Dragon Master's high praise. The announcer exclaimed, "It's incredible to hear such admiration from someone like Lance!" At that moment, the players began entering the arena. The announcer's voice boomed again. "Now, everyone, please turn your attention to the right! Our first finalist, representing the green side, is Andrew!" Andrew emerged from the tunnel, waving warmly to the crowd as they applauded. Moments later, the announcer's tone grew even more excited. "And now, representing the red side, please welcome Kai!" As Kai stepped into the arena, the atmosphere erupted. The cheers and applause reached a fever pitch, far surpassing the reaction to Andrew's entrance. Andrew couldn't help but sigh at the stark contrast in popularity. He didn't understand why the crowd's enthusiasm for Kai was so overwhelming compared to his own. Kai, however, remained composed as he walked to the trainer's box. He glanced briefly at the commentary booth, recalling Lance's earlier remarks. Though he appreciated the praise, one question lingered in his mind: How had Lance recognized him? During their previous encounter, Kai had been masked. 'Was it due to his role as an investigator? Or had someone, perhaps a certain unreliable individual revealed his identity?' Pushing these thoughts aside, Kai refocused on the battle as the referee signalled for the trainers to send out their first Pokémon. Simultaneously, Kai and Andrew released their Pokémon, and two winged figures emerged in a burst of light. "Oh!" The announcer exclaimed. "Both trainers have chosen Flying-type Pokémon to lead the battle, what a fascinating coincidence!" --- For early access to advanced chapters and exclusive illustrations made by me, visit my P@treon: P@treon/iamxeno Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter 161: 161. Lance

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