Chapter 632: VS Zamora! Battle? Cooking Duel!

Chapter 632: VS Zamora! Battle? Cooking Duel!



"Designated Challenge, established!"

Utsugi clapped his hands, signaling the start of the duel.

A slight murmur arose within the hall.

Although Zamora held the title of Marquis, it was due to his preoccupation with League affairs and his culinary endeavors, leaving him no time to battle at the Battle Castle.

This time, he had come because the Battle Castle invited him to be a temporary head chef, and he could conveniently challenge a match to advance to the Duke rank.

And as for Jinghe?

No one doubted Jinghe's strength; at the very least, he was undoubtedly at the Four Kings level.

Could it be that a duel between at least Four Kings-level opponents was about to unfold?

This gathering was indeed a perfect match! The crowd put down their knives and forks and rushed towards the castle's rear yard.

Letting them battle against Jinghe? No way.

Letting them watch Jinghe fight against Marquis Zamora? Let's go!

Green clenched his fist, pounding his palm.

Damn, Zamora had taken the initiative.

However, speaking of Zamora's title and their combined strength, the winner might be directly promoted to Duke by the Battle Castle.

After all, with their abilities on display, Zamora's strength had increased, but it wasn't as crucial as his culinary skills due to his prolonged absence from battles.

For trainers whose strength clearly surpassed their titles, the Battle Castle would also expedite their promotion accordingly. Otherwise, if they only came to "bully" lower-ranked opponents, other titled trainers would lose interest in matching with them.

After Jinghe and Zamora's battle, there would be a half-day break before the next designated challenge!

Green made up his mind.

"I heard that after obtaining the Duke title, you can get accommodation discounts at some large hotels in the Castelia region."

On the way to the battlefield, Jinghe, wearing a dueling jacket and draped in a yellow marquis cloak, mumbled.

"Huh?"

Upon hearing this, Gengar immediately became interested.

Discounts? I love discounts the most! It's not easy to earn "rice and grain" at home; as the big brother, how could I not lead the bears to receive the "blessings from above"?

Seeing its demeanor, Jinghe pulled at the corners of his mouth.

"Only those with the Duke title would care about such a small discount; they're truly unique."

"Yo!"

Yuki strode forward with large steps, brimming with confidence and ready for a fight.

However, Jinghe indicated, "This time, Yuki, you won't be participating."

"Yo?"

Yuki was momentarily stunned.

"The opponent is a Water-type expert; show some respect." Jinghe explained.

"Yo."

Yuki's head instantly drooped, looking dejected.

Putting aside other matters, this group of little guys had indeed learned quite a bit of acting from Gengar.

Even Yuki had picked up some acting skills.

But against Zamora, Yuki couldn't join the battle.

Aside from Yuki's fourfold weakness to Water-type moves, the opponent was a Water-type specialist. Even without considering Yuki's current strength, there was a noticeable gap between it and Zamora's main Pokemon.

No matter how talented Yuki was, combined with Jinghe's dedicated cultivation and the investment of numerous rare minerals and diamonds, it was still just a Yuki.

Moreover, it was a cub that had not even reached half a year old since its birth.

Being able to solo a Gym Leader at its current state was already considered exceptional.

Furthermore, Jinghe, if he remembered correctly, Zamora's ace was a Water Tortoise, and it was even a Mega Water Tortoise with a Mega Stone!

Should Yuki go up against it?

Would it be able to block the Mega Water Tortoise's cannon? It was uncertain if it could even fit.

Not letting Yuki participate was also for its own good.

Yuki naturally understood this, and it pouted, feeling a bit frustrated about its strength.

Hmph! I'll keep working hard!

Gurgle, gurgle—

It was unclear when Yuki had put a Ground Stone Fragment into its mouth, making a gurgling sound as it turned it around, its left cheek puffing up one moment and its right cheek the next.

Once I finish chewing this stone, I'll pin those guys to the ground! Gurgle, gurgle—

The Ground Stone Fragment rubbed against Yuki's sharp teeth, creating tiny specks of powder that fell into its mouth along with its saliva, instantly making it feel invigorated.

Jinghe's eyes widened in surprise.

The Ground Stone Fragment repaired by Alazhe should still be able to "endure" for a while, right?

Endure a little longer... For some reason, Jinghe felt as if a Damocles sword was hanging over his head.

No, it was as if a Damocles sword was hanging over his wallet, ready to pierce it at any moment.

Little Yuki nibbled on the Ground Stone Fragment every day, eating like a glutton. It was hard to imagine how much it would consume daily without the Ground Stone Fragment. Jinghe felt deeply concerned, knowing that his battle performance today would likely be subpar.

Perhaps it would be better to let Regieleki make an appearance? After all, the Castelia League was already aware of Jinghe temporarily taking in Regieleki, and there was nothing to hide.

Electric-type and Grass-type Pokemon were ideal for countering Water-type Pokemon.

Unfortunately, Jinghe's only Electric-type Pokemon was Rotom, and this guy didn't particularly enjoy battling. The last time it battled was probably during the Lilin Conference. After such a long time, it might not even remember how powerful it was.

As for Grass-type Pokemon...

In fact, Jinghe had already considered catching a Grass-type Pokemon. His favorite was the Tropical Dragon, which could perform photosynthesis on its own using chlorophyll and produce delicious fruits. It also had a massive body capable of flight, making it more stable than Dratini.

Of course, with his current strength, it's quite difficult for him to encounter a Tropical Dragon that meets his standards.

As a second choice, a Grass-type starter trio could be considered, albeit reluctantly.

Hmm?

No, our Rotom isn't a Grass-type, but it can temporarily transform into one.

Jinghe glanced at the Rotom Pokedex floating beside him, always ready to take pictures.

Noticing Jinghe's gaze, Rotom shuddered and then forced a mournful smile.

"Luo... Rotom."

The Battle Castle, where battles are fought.

Even though Zhimi usually wears a chef's uniform, he now donned a brown cloak.

"Jinghe, I've long heard of your exceptional strength, but I never expected you to be a master chef as well. I hope you won't hold back, Jinghe." Zhimi spoke politely.

Although he is a few years older and became a Four King at a young age, he is only four or five years older than Jinghe. Meeting someone who is equally skilled in Pokemon battles and cooking is what makes him increasingly excited.

"Actually," Jinghe smiled, "whether it's cooking or Pokemon battles, the basic principles are the same. Even if it's just for a moment, as long as we can bring out the power of the ingredients and Pokemon, that's what we strive for."

Zhimi's eyes lit up at Jinghe's words, feeling that they resonated deeply with him.

A kindred spirit!

As a Pokemon trainer and chef for so long, this is the first time someone has so accurately articulated his thoughts about Pokemon and cooking.

In response, Jinghe inwardly mocked, "How could it not resonate? These are Zhimi's words, I just quoted them in advance."

"Whether it's cooking or Pokemon battles, it's a fleeting beauty. But before that fleeting moment, the time spent is definitely more than a blink of an eye."

Zhimi's voice rose, "I wonder if Jinghe is prepared to 'taste' my hard-earned 'hidden menu'?"

"Just what I was hoping for!"

The castle butler announced, "Please send out your Pokemon!"

This battle between Marquises follows the usual 2v2 single battle rules.

Zhimi extended his hand, making a gesture as if presenting a dish, and simultaneously threw a Poke Ball.

"Go, Barbaracle!"

Jinghe was familiar with Barbaracle, having encountered it just the other day by a stream on his way to the Battle Castle.

In terms of strength, there was no comparison.

Just the sight of those massive pincer-like cannons was enough to make one's heart quiver.

"Go," Jinghe said without hesitation, pointing, "Rotom!"

"Rotom!" Rotom reluctantly flew out of Jinghe's Pokedex.

It wasn't particularly fond of battles, but that didn't mean it couldn't fight. Moreover, spending time with Gengu, Dratini, Martial Bear, Crimson Blade Phantom, and even Yuki, who were all combat-oriented, had subtly influenced its senses.

It just wasn't sure of its own strength and whether it could hold its ground.

"Rotom?"

Adu on the spectator stand was a bit surprised to see the Pokemon Jinghe summoned.

If he remembered correctly, Jinghe's Rotom usually didn't participate in battles.

However, he didn't think much of it; not participating often didn't mean never participating.

As for those who weren't particularly familiar with Jinghe, like Zhimi and Yan Kai, they didn't see any issue with it. After all, Rotom's Electric and Ghost types gave it an advantage in attributes.

It was the aura that was lacking.

It was even less intimidating than Yuki.

"Rotom," Rotom frowned, trying to look more "ferocious."

Jinghe had promised that after this battle, regardless of the outcome, it could take at least three hundred photos.

Taking photos wasn't the main point; what mattered was that Jinghe had promised to hold down Gengu, so it had to give its all.

Moreover, Jinghe had said that if it couldn't win, it should retreat without hesitation. This battle was just a test of strength, and if Rotom didn't give its all, it might not be able to protect Jinghe in the future.

Despite its dislike for battles, Rotom was determined to do its best to ensure Jinghe's safety!

After summoning Rotom, Jinghe immediately commanded, "Activate the Lawn Mower form!"

"Hngga~"

Gengu turned and dug out an orange lawnmower from Jinghe's shadow, tossing it into the arena.

Boom—

Rotom instantly transformed into electricity, surging into the lawnmower. With the flow of electricity, the lawnmower's motor whirred to life, and Rotom became its driving force.

Cut Rotom!

Electric and Grass types!

Seeing this, Zhimi became even more serious.

In terms of attributes, Rotom was now at a significant disadvantage.

"Rotom!!"

After transforming into the Lawn Mower Rotom, the little guy's aura changed, becoming more confident and aggressive.

The battle begins!

Zhimi swept his cloak aside, "Please taste the first dish of my 'hidden menu,' the Chef's Artistic Hydro Pump!"

Barbaracle's body shimmered with the sun's radiance, its massive pincers opening as water droplets rapidly gathered, while within the cannon, a dense Water-type energy coalesced.

Boom!!

A thunderous sound like a tearing cloth filled the air, and a surging wave of water rushed forward.

Super Launcher!

With this ability, combined with the Hydro Pump move and the development and training of a Four King trainer, the power of this Hydro Pump caused many trainers to change their expressions, silently acknowledging the might of a Four King.

A single Water Pulse with a power of 60 points was enough to create such a spectacle.

"Rotom."

When Rotom entered the field, it was slightly nervous, but after transforming into Mow Rotom by entering the lawnmower, it felt a little better. Hearing Jinghe's calm voice, it immediately focused on the battle.

With Jinghe around, there was indeed a sense of reassurance.

"Electric Net, then dodge!"

Zzzzz—

Golden, fluffy electricity formed a large net and expanded, wrapping around the incoming stream of water, while the lawnmower's wheels spun, quickly dodging to one side.

Even with double resistance and the boost from the Super Launcher, the Water Pulse was not something to be taken lightly.

Boom!!

The stream of water collided with the electric net, creating a sound of impact, but the powerful water stream shattered the net and, along with the electricity, slammed into the ground.

With the slight obstruction from the electric net, Rotom successfully avoided this attack.

Zamora smiled slightly, not surprised by this outcome.

"Barbaracle, start moving!"

Whoosh—

A stream of water surged from Barbaracle's body, completely enveloping it.

With the help of the flowing water, Barbaracle floated in the air and swiftly glided, its speed not much slower than when it was in the water.

"Dragon Pulse!"

Buzz—

Blue-purple Dragon-type energy surged from its pincers, emitting an extremely intimidating aura.

The previous Water Pulse could only be considered a test; this Dragon Pulse marked the true beginning of the battle.

Boom!!

Dragon-type energy erupted, transforming into a roaring giant dragon that bit into Rotom, its might not inferior to the Dragon-type moves used by Dragon-type Pokemon.

Barbaracle was not known for its speed, but Zamora's move somewhat compensated for its disadvantage.

Upon witnessing this scene, Jinghe's original strategy underwent a slight change.

Tactics should not remain rigid; when the opponent's moves and strategies change, one must adapt accordingly.

This was not a baby cup battle; Jinghe could see through the opponent's thoughts without even looking, as a Four King, he was not lacking in such basic skills.

So, Jinghe immediately commanded, "Rotom, Light Screen!"

"Rotom!"

Hearing Jinghe's order, Rotom did not hesitate for a moment. A faint light appeared in its eyes, and a transparent wall quickly formed.

At the same time, Barbaracle's Dragon Pulse arrived at that moment.

Although the Light Screen mitigated some of the impact, it still landed on Rotom's body.

"Thunder Wave!"

With the change in tactics and approach, Jinghe began to take the offensive.

Zzzzz—

The golden, fluffy, cotton-like electricity expanded, and Zamora reacted immediately, "Barbaracle, Water Pulse, defend!"

Water conducts electricity, so Water-type Pokemon are weak against Electric-type moves. However, if water is isolated from the body, it becomes the best defense against Electric-type moves.

As a specialist in Water-type Pokemon, Zamora had his own understanding of Water and Electric types.

The Water Pulse condensed and did not disperse, forming a water wall in front of Barbaracle. The electric arc that splashed open upon contact with the water wall was absorbed.

"Explosion!"

Jinghe gave a light command.

Boom!!

The fluffy Thunder Wave exploded like a thunderclap, splitting into two smaller currents that bypassed the water wall and struck Barbaracle with electricity.

This!

Upon seeing this, not only Zamora but also the spectators in the stands were taken aback.

Is there such a Thunder Wave?

Jinghe smiled, not surprised by this outcome.

In fact, Rotom had learned something from Zekrom.

Although Cross Thunder was too advanced for Rotom to learn, it didn't stop it from learning, imitating, and trying.

The latest, smallest, and most talked-about book is now available!

In fact, Rotom had the ability and talent, but it probably didn't even know it itself.

Zzzzz—

Golden arcs of light appeared on Barbaracle's body, which was enveloped by the stream of water.

Paralysis status!

Zamora frowned.

With paralysis, this battle would undoubtedly become more challenging.

"Rotom, Charge!"

"Rotom!"

After a successful hit, Rotom became more confident, and its body was suddenly filled with flashing light as powerful electricity surged through it.

[Charge: Doubles the power of the next Electric-type move used and also increases the user's Special Defense by one stage.]



Barbaracle is a typical Special Attack-oriented Pokemon, and Light Screen was used to counter Special Attack, while increasing Special Defense served the same purpose.

Zamora's face tightened, as the move after Charge would be difficult for Barbaracle to withstand.

However, paralysis not only affected the stability of its moves but also reduced its speed.

Dodging was definitely out of the question, and escaping now seemed a bit too early.

"Barbaracle, maximum power, Dragon Pulse!"

Seeing this, Jinghe raised his eyebrows.

Was this a head-on confrontation?

"Rotom, Thunderbolt!"

Jinghe didn't like to gamble, as Thunder had a low accuracy. With the boost from Charge, Thunderbolt was sufficient.

Boom—

Golden thunderous light, like a tide, erupted from Rotom's body, engulfing Barbaracle in a massive surge.

As Zamora allowed Steel Armor Shrimp to counter a portion of the Electric-type attack with Dragon Pulse, it still dealt significant damage to the shrimp, and a one-hit-knockout was not out of the question.

However, Zamora made a surprising decision that shocked everyone.

"Avoid the Electric-type attack!"

Roar—

The azure-purple dragon formed by Dragon Pulse seemed to roar, and with a graceful spin, it actually dodged countless electric currents and charged straight at Rotom.

"What's Zamora's plan? Can Steel Armor Shrimp withstand the charged 100,000-volt Thunderbolt?"

"Perhaps he predicted the outcome and is preparing for the next Pokemon?"

This seemed to be the only plausible explanation.

Just before defeat, Zamora aimed to inflict as much damage as possible on Rotom.

But what if Teacher Jinghe decides to switch Pokemon?

Boom!!

The 100,000-volt Thunderbolt hit Steel Armor Shrimp, while Dragon Pulse also struck Rotom.

Just as the audience thought Zamora had given up this round, he suddenly clenched his fist.

"The moment of cooking is now!"

"Steel Armor Shrimp, Heal Pulse!"

The faint arcs of electricity continued to flicker on Steel Armor Shrimp's body, but under Zamora's influence, the paralysis status seemed to have no effect on the shrimp this time.

Buzz—

The pulse representing healing power followed as Steel Armor Shrimp raised its claw and struck itself.

The damage caused by the 100,000-volt Thunderbolt and the recovery effect of Heal Pulse seemed to "offset" each other on Steel Armor Shrimp's body.

Would Steel Armor Shrimp succumb to the Thunderbolt attack first, or would Heal Pulse negate the damage from the Thunderbolt?

"So that's how it is!" someone exclaimed.

A normal Heal Pulse might not have been as effective at this moment, but Steel Armor Shrimp's Super Launcher ability was the key!

Under the double power, the damage inflicted on Steel Armor Shrimp by the electric currents visibly healed at an astonishing rate.

Instant healing?

Initially, Zamora had the advantage, but Teacher Jinghe and Rotom regained the initiative with their peculiar Electrowave. Now, if this charged Thunderbolt is blocked, the initiative will shift back to Zamora.

Is this the level of competition between Four Kings trainers? The outcome hangs in the balance.

Could Teacher Jinghe be about to lose the first round?

However, at this critical moment, Teacher Jinghe also spoke up.

"Rotom, Share Pain."

Everyone: "!!!"

"Aren't you just pulling Steel Armor Shrimp's 'health bar' back and forth between damage and healing?"

"Fine, I'll cut your health bar in half, and you can keep pulling."

Instant healing is most dangerous when it suddenly wipes out your health bar at a critical moment.

Rotom, already in a weakened state from enduring Steel Armor Shrimp's full-power Dragon Pulse, chose to Share Pain at this moment. Its health might not recover, and it might even decrease, but Steel Armor Shrimp's health would definitely not hold up.

Boom!!!

The booming sound reverberated from Steel Armor Shrimp's body, and Rotom's entire state became visibly sluggish as it stood on the field, staring intently at its opponent.

The smoke cleared.

Steel Armor Shrimp collapsed in the middle of the field, its eyes resembling mosquito coils.

"Damn, that last Share Pain move was truly a stroke of genius!"

"It seemed like Steel Armor Shrimp's Heal Pulse was about to withstand the impact of the Thunderbolt."

"The outcome really does hang in the balance."

"If Zamora's Heal Pulse is the final seasoning in his cooking, then Teacher Jinghe's Share Pain is like the finishing touch of a sprig of green onion on a dish."

". "

Steel Armor Shrimp lost its ability to battle! Rotom also looked sluggish, lying on the ground panting heavily.

Phew,

That was close.

It was indeed a close call; if anyone else had been in command, winning this battle would have been difficult.

However, after this match, both Teacher Jinghe and Rotom gained a certain understanding of their own strengths.

Steel Armor Shrimp is probably slightly weaker than the main Pokemon of an average Four Kings trainer, and this victory can be attributed to the advantage of its type and Jinghe's unexpected command, which played a crucial role.

In the end, a Pokemon's strength cannot be measured solely by data and numbers; otherwise, there would be no need for battles, and trainers could simply compare numbers to determine the winner.

A Pokemon's condition, type advantages and disadvantages, and the trainer's state and command abilities all influence strength to some extent.

Overall, the result was much better than Jinghe had anticipated, as he had always been prepared for Rotom to use Volt Switch.

Winning or losing didn't matter; the important thing was to prevent the little guy from getting seriously injured.

"Well done, Rotom," Teacher Jinghe praised without reservation.

"It's...not that bad, Rotom~" Rotom chuckled.

"Later, you'll take 500 photos, and I'll keep Gengue locked up for you."

He had previously promised 300 photos, but since they won, a "reward" was in order.

"Hooray for Rotom!!"

Rotom was even more excited about this than winning the battle.

Gengue: ???

Across the field, Zamora had already recalled Steel Armor Shrimp, and he wore an expression of intoxicated satisfaction.

"Is this your 'cooking,' Teacher Jinghe? It's truly a moment of endless aftertaste. But..."

Zamora held another Poke Ball in his hand, his expression becoming more serious and expectant:

"My main course is just about to make its entrance!"

"Go, Water Tortoise!"

Bang!!!

The robust Water Tortoise landed heavily in the arena, kicking up a cloud of dust.

The thick carapace and sturdy limbs of the Water Tortoise exuded strength, and the two cannons on its back gleamed with a polished metallic luster, drawing all eyes. But the most striking feature, without a doubt, was the radiant orb on its forehead—the Mega Stone, emitting a dazzling glow.

"Here it comes! It's the Water Tortoise, the ace of the Four Kings, Zamora!"

"Look at that Mega Stone on its forehead. The Water Tortoise of the Four Kings can Mega Evolve!"

"No wonder it's the ace Pokemon. I wonder which Pokemon Jinghe will send out to face it."

"Could it be Gengue? Will we witness a Mega Evolution battle today?"

"But I've heard that Jinghe's Mega Gengue would even give Alder, the Unova Champion, a run for his money."

The Water Tortoise's appearance sparked considerable discussion. Its formidable strength was evident, befitting the Four Kings' ace Pokemon.

"Kamehameha!"

The Water Tortoise let out a deep, powerful roar, stirring up dust. Influenced by Zamora, its battle spirit soared.

Jinghe wasn't surprised by the Water Tortoise's entrance, and he had already decided which Pokemon to send out.

However, as he reached for the Poke Ball at his waist, one of them started shaking excitedly.

Hmm? Even without looking, Jinghe knew who was so eager.

But he couldn't help but be surprised by its enthusiasm.

Crimson Blade Phantom!

A fully evolved Fire-type starter with a Mega Stone, it was undoubtedly capable of Mega Evolution. Was a Fire-type Pokemon really going to take the field against it?

Although Zamora, as the Four Kings' ace in the Castelia region, was a Water-type starter from the Kanto region, which seemed a bit odd, Jinghe was very familiar with and fond of Water Tortoise-type Pokemon.

The Crimson Blade Phantom had no advantage and would be at a complete disadvantage due to its typing.

But the Crimson Blade Phantom's waveguide energy passed through the Poke Ball, conveying a strong battle request to Jinghe.

It wanted to battle this Water Tortoise!

Earlier, Jinghe had mentioned some information about the Super Launcher ability, which only Mega Water Tortoise, Steel Armor Shrimp, and Barbaracle possessed.

Recently, the Crimson Blade Phantom, or Pyroar, had been attempting to simulate the Super Launcher ability, but to be honest, the results weren't very significant.

So, it probably thought that battling a Pokemon with this ability would provide more insight.

The previous battle with Steel Armor Shrimp was unavoidable, as it didn't know that Zamora's first Pokemon would be a Steel Armor Shrimp, and both sides had simultaneously summoned their Pokemon.

But this time, it wanted to give it a try!

Jinghe could even feel the Poke Ball of the Crimson Blade Phantom warming up, as if an intense flame burned within, mirroring its high spirits and eagerness to fight.

In response, Jinghe could only chuckle and grabbed the Poke Ball containing the Crimson Blade Phantom instead of the one he had intended to use.

With his own Pokemon so eager to battle, what could he say?

It was just a battle, a win or loss.

The most important thing was to enjoy the fight.

Moreover, we might not lose!

"Then it's decided! Crimson Blade Phantom, go!"

Roar!

Under the flashing red light, a ball of fire suddenly appeared in the arena, leaping from the Crimson Blade Phantom's armor and rising into a blazing inferno.

"A Fire-type, the Crimson Blade Phantom?"

Everyone was stunned by the Pokemon Jinghe had summoned.

A Fire-type against a Water-type, and as the second move...

"Could it be that Jinghe is also a master of reverse typing?"

Who would send out a Fire-type against a Water-type, except for trainers specializing in Fire-types?

Even kids just starting Pokemon school knew that Water-types were strong against Fire-types.

Aodu and Yakai, watching from the sidelines, were also surprised.

However, when they noticed the Crimson Blade Phantom's eyes and its state, their surprise faded, replaced by understanding.

"What high spirits!" Yakai exclaimed. "Facing difficulties with such enthusiasm—that's a knight worthy of respect!"

As someone who also wore armor, Yakai admired the Crimson Blade Phantom's state.

Aodu wasn't a knight, but he, too, saw the passion for Pokemon battles in the Crimson Blade Phantom.

What did it matter if its typing was at a disadvantage? It didn't necessarily mean defeat!

In his mind, a cold, frosty face appeared.

Zamora was also surprised to see the Crimson Blade Phantom, but when he noticed its state, he immediately understood.

"So, this is your 'cooking' method, Jinghe? High-temperature cooking, stir-frying with intense heat, concentrating the essence!"

Zamora, on the other hand, was a typical Western chef, presenting beautifully plated dishes that tasted good but lacked a bit of the fiery spirit and warmth.

It had to be said that after hearing Zamora's words, the audience also 'saw' the characteristics of this battle from a different perspective.

"I thought it was just a gimmick and a joke, but it's really like cooking?"

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end