Chapter 277: 277. Winner’s Cup Champion

Words : 1170 Updated : Oct 11th, 2025

---- It was over. The battle had ended with Drake's defeat. The referee raised the green flag, officially declaring Kai the victor. On the scoreboard, the icons of all of Drake's Pokémon faded to grey, signalling his complete loss. The announcer let out a deep sigh but soon spoke with genuine admiration: "Let's give a big congratulations to Kai for defeating Drake and becoming the newest Winner's Cup Champion! I have to say, Kai's Pokémon have performed flawlessly throughout these six battles. Each one has displayed stunning strength, and his victory is nothing short of well-deserved. He has truly earned the title of Honorary Trainer of the Orange League! Now, let's give him a thunderous round of applause and cheers!" "KAI! KAI! KAI!" "KAI! KAI! KAI!" After watching Kai's incredible performance, the announcer completely acknowledged his strength. Not only was Kai naturally charismatic and likeable, but his overwhelming skill gap against Drake showed that his victory was no fluke there was nothing controversial about his win. The stronger you are, the more people respect you. And sure enough— The audience rose to their feet, applauding and cheering for both trainers who had given them such a spectacular battle. After this Winner's Cup, many spectators became Kai's new fans. Back on the battlefield, Drake quickly recalled Dragonite, ensuring it wasn't harmed by the lingering flames. Likewise, Kai withdrew Charizard, knowing that it had grown tremendously from this intense battle. At that moment, several staff members rushed onto the field. They released a squad of Squirtle, and within moments, seven or eight Water Guns extinguished the remaining flames, cooling the battlefield down. However, after such an intense match, the once-pristine grassy arena had been reduced to ruins. The ground was now muddy and charred, littered with ashes and smouldering embers. As the smoke cleared, Drake approached Kai. Just like before the battle, he extended his hand once again. "That was a truly exhilarating battle," he said sincerely. "Congratulations you are now officially recognized as the Honorary Trainer of the Orange League and have earned a place in the Hall of Victors!" In front of the watchful eyes of the audience, Kai shook Drake's hand firmly. "Thank you. And... sorry if my Pokémon went a little overboard during some of the matches." Drake chuckled and shook his head. "No need to apologize. This was a battle when fighting for victory, you have to give it everything you've got." However, after saying that, Drake hesitated for a moment as if debating whether or not to ask something. Eventually, after a brief pause, he cautiously said: "Actually... I have a question for you." Kai blinked. "A question?" "Yes," Drake admitted. "Your Pokémon are incredibly strong. I'd like to know how do you train them?" Kai thought for a moment before scratching the back of his head. "Honestly... nothing special. Just regular training." Hearing this, Drake looked a bit disappointed. Sensing it, Kai added with a smile: "But if you want my advice, I'll give you one tip: Don't stay in one place. If you want your Pokémon to grow stronger, you can't let yourself become stagnant. The world is vast travel, challenge other powerful trainers, and push your Pokémon beyond their limits. That's the fastest way to improve." Drake sighed with a wry smile. "Traveling, huh...?" He had once done just that, journeying across different regions to hone his skills. But after feeling like he had reached his limit, he had settled down in the Orange League, believing he had nowhere left to grow. Seeing his reaction, Kai grinned knowingly. "Speaking of strong trainers... have you ever heard of Lorelei?" Drake's eyes widened slightly. "The Kanto-Johto Elite Four member?" "Exactly," Kai said. "She's well-known across Kanto, Johto, and the Orange Islands. Just about everyone from elderly trainers to young children knows who she is, right?" "Of course," Drake nodded. "Well, she's visiting the Orange Islands soon," Kai revealed. "If you really want to take your skills to the next level, why not challenge her?" Drake hesitated. "Challenge Lorelei...?" "That's right," Kai encouraged. "She's one of the strongest Ice-type trainers out there. Battling her will push you to your limits. Plus, I happen to know her personally, so if you tell her I sent you, she might give you some special treatment in battle." Drake took a moment to seriously consider it. Then— He nodded firmly. "Alright. I'll take on the challenge." Kai smirked. "Good. But before that, don't rush off just yet. I think a certain young boy is planning to challenge you soon so make sure you defeat him first." Drake raised an eyebrow. "A young boy?" "Yeah," Kai nodded. "He's around ten years old. But don't underestimate him just because of his age he's stronger than he looks." Drake folded his arms, intrigued. "Is he a friend of yours? Any distinct features?" Kai grinned. "He wears a cap, and he's always accompanied by a Pikachu. You can't miss him. He might look a little goofy, but trust me he's surprisingly tough." Drake chuckled. "Alright. I'll take this battle seriously." Then, with a newfound resolve, he declared. "And I promise you this the next time we meet, I will be even stronger than I am now! When that time comes, I'll be the one challenging you!" Kai laughed, having heard similar words countless times before. "I'll be waiting," he replied. With the friendly exchange concluded, they exchanged contact information and added each other as friends. At that moment, Carl approached, carrying the Winner's Cup Trophy. Drake accepted the golden trophy from his hands. Then, with both hands, he ceremoniously handed it to Kai. "Once again congratulations. You earned this." Kai smiled as he took the trophy, raising it high above his head! Confetti erupted into the air! Flashes from cameras filled the stadium, capturing the glorious moment forever. Though the Orange League may not have an official Champion title, this trophy was still deeply significant to Kai. This was now his second major championship trophy! Watching Kai's grand victory celebration, Carl smiled and clapped politely. "Congratulations, Kai. You are now the newest Honorary Trainer of the Orange League." But for Carl... This victory brought both good news and bad news. The good news: The Winner's Cup broadcast ratings had reached an all-time high! The bad news: Their Orange League champion had been completely crushed. Now, the entire world knew... The strongest trainer in the Orange League had been effortlessly defeated by a trainer from the Indigo League and worst of all... This humiliating image of the Orange League would probably haunt them for years to come. ---- Don't forget to drop some PowerStones!???????????? For early access to advanced chapters on p@treon. P@treon/iamxeno Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter 277: 277. Winner’s Cup Champion

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