Ch. 241Steelix's Majestic Stature
Chapter Summary: “Steelix’s Majestic Stature”
Key Plot Points and Events
- Heiduo and Ajiu arrive at Route 10 at night, where Ajiu releases his full team.
- Heiduo is stunned by Ajiu’s enormous Steelix, “A Ben,” which stands roughly nine meters tall. He recognizes it from records in Johto and briefly examines its immense strength and imposing appearance.
- Ajiu’s remaining Pokémon are introduced:
- Flygon and Sandslash, seen previously
- Claydol
- A Weak Armor Torkoal
- Aggron, another heavily armored powerhouse
- Heiduo evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of Ajiu’s team, mentally comparing possible matchups with his own Pokémon. He recognizes Steelix and Aggron as powerful physical defenders but notes their low speed, poor special defense, and low HP.
- At seven o’clock, Heiduo begins his regular night training. Ajiu asks to join and attempts to have his own Pokémon train independently.
- Heiduo organizes both teams into a running formation. Ajiu initially treats the exercise like a race, accelerating without considering whether all of his Pokémon can maintain the pace.
- Aggron and Torkoal fall behind because of their heavy armor and shells. Heiduo explains that training requires finding a sustainable rhythm rather than simply running as fast as possible.
- After the running exercise, Heiduo’s Pokémon practice their moves. Ajiu asks whether repetitive move practice directly increases attack power.
- Heiduo clarifies that practice mainly improves familiarity, control, and understanding of moves; raising a Pokémon’s level is a more direct way to increase power. He also emphasizes the value of flexible, creative move applications.
- Ajiu accepts the advice and eagerly begins trying to apply it.
Character Developments
- Heiduo: Demonstrates his knowledge of Pokémon species, battle matchups, training methods, and move mechanics. Although initially competitive and somewhat dismissive of Ajiu’s inexperience, he takes on a mentoring role and gives practical guidance.
- Ajiu: Is revealed to be enthusiastic, proud of his team, and eager to improve. He initially lacks a proper understanding of structured training, confusing speed with effectiveness, but readily accepts correction and shows humility by asking Heiduo repeated questions.
- Ajiu’s Pokémon: Steelix and Aggron are established as intimidating physical tanks, while Aggron and Torkoal struggle with endurance exercises because of their weight. Their difficulties expose the importance of adapting training to individual strengths and limitations.
Significant Themes
- Training must be purposeful and individualized: Speed alone does not make conditioning effective; Pokémon need a pace suited to their abilities.
- Knowledge and mentorship: Ajiu improves because he is willing to learn, while Heiduo’s experience allows him to identify and correct inefficient habits.
- Power versus limitations: Steelix and Aggron possess tremendous physical defense and strength but are vulnerable to speed, special attacks, and poor endurance.
- Practical battle understanding: Skill comes not only from increasing raw power but also from mastering move usage, creativity, and tactical flexibility.
- Humility and growth: Ajiu’s willingness to set aside pride and seek instruction becomes a strength rather than a weakness.
Character Interactions
- Heiduo examines Steelix with curiosity, while Ajiu proudly explains that he had believed his evolved Onix was unique.
- Heiduo privately compares the two trainers’ teams, though he ultimately dismisses the comparison as irrelevant to his current goals.
- Ajiu joins Heiduo’s night training and initially competes with him, prompting Heiduo to correct his approach.
- Heiduo teaches Ajiu how to establish a sustainable group-training rhythm and later explains the real purpose of move practice.
- Their relationship shifts toward informal mentorship: Ajiu is an eager student, while Heiduo provides guidance despite maintaining a blunt, impatient attitude.