Observation and calculation were the two core pillars of data-driven battling.
The first was observation. It covered everything, the battlefield environment, the Pokémon's condition, and even subtle changes in the opposing trainer's behavior. Every small detail could become a deciding factor.
The second, and most crucial, was calculation. However, calculation could not exist without observation as its foundation. Only after gathering enough accurate information could one determine the most effective course of action.
Sometimes, calculation was even more reliable than luck. By observing an opponent's movements, one could predict the next command or skill they were about to use. This was what trainers called pre-judgment.
"At my current level, I can even predict where my opponent will move next," Ash said calmly. "That's why my Pokémon's move accuracy can exceed ninety percent. That's the true strength of data-driven battling."
Put simply, this style was like setting a trap. Step by step, you guided your opponent into a controlled situation, then dismantled them completely. Most trainers would find themselves led around without even realizing it.
"So it can go as far as predicting the opponent's exact position…" Nathan's eyes lit up. It was clear he took pride in choosing this path, even if he had not yet reached Ash's level.
"In your current circle, the strongest in this area are probably you and Gary," Ash continued. "Gary has a natural advantage in observation. The Oak family specializes in Pokémon research."
"With that background, and the experience he gained traveling with Professor Oak since childhood, your observational ability is still slightly behind his. On top of that, his current team is quite strong."
"If you faced him now, the outcome would likely be fifty-fifty."
The "circle" Ash referred to was the network of elite families. People of similar status naturally gathered together, forming their own competitive environment.
Nathan shook his head.
"No, you're forgetting someone, your apprentice, Shirō. His strength can't be underestimated. If I fought him, I'd only have about a forty to fifty percent chance of winning."
Thinking back to the battle footage he had seen, Nathan was still amazed by Emiya Shirō's fighting style. It was aggressive, precise, and overwhelming. Techniques like high-speed movement, aerial maneuvers, and relentless close combat gave him an edge even in midair.
"Shirō…" Ash smiled faintly. "I taught him a trump card. Honestly, if he uses it, even teaming up with Gary probably won't be enough to stop him."
"The Eight Gates…"
It was an extremely powerful technique. Once mastered, it could push Shirō onto the highest stage in the world.
"What? Even together with Gary we couldn't win?" Nathan's pupils shrank in shock. Two quasi-Champion-level trainers losing to one, it sounded unbelievable.
"Yes. It has side effects, but its power is unquestionable. Among fighting styles, it's the strongest trump card."
Ash spoke with absolute confidence. He himself had begun studying the technique.
In the past, he lacked chakra and could not use it. Now, things were different. With chakra flowing through his body and his vitality strengthened, he could theoretically open all eight gates.
But the cost still remained. Even with his enhanced vitality, opening all eight gates would lead to death. At best, it would only delay the inevitable.
Even so, it was enough to serve as his ultimate trump card.
"Looks like I'll have to add him to my list of rivals," Nathan said after calming down. He adjusted his glasses, regaining his composure as his thoughts became sharp and focused once more.
"Where are you heading next? Sabrina and I are planning to leave early tomorrow morning to challenge the next Gym."
Ash showed no interest in their rivalry. The gap in strength between him and the others was already on a completely different level.
"I'm going to Fantasy Island," Nathan replied. "I want my Pokémon to train there for a while. According to my research, training in the Dream Forest there is two to three times more effective than outside. It's almost unbelievable."
This discovery had greatly motivated him. He had already trained on Fantasy Island before and had seen clear improvements in his Pokémon.
"I see. Then we'll part ways tomorrow," Ash said. "By the way, Gary will be challenging the Kanto League soon. If you have time, you should participate too. I'm curious, between you, Gary, and Shirō, who would come out on top."
Among their circle, the three of them stood at the peak. The others were still a step behind, but after so much time, there was no telling what kind of dark horse might appear.
"Hmph, the champion of this Indigo Plateau Conference will definitely be me."
Nathan's competitive spirit was ignited by Ash's words. He had already decided to join the Kanto League this time. He refused to lose to anyone of his generation… except Ash.
After saying that, Nathan closed his notebook and stood up, heading back to his room to pack. He could not wait any longer. He planned to catch the last passenger ship that night, as the Kanto League had already begun.
After he left, Sabrina rested her chin lightly on her hand, her expression calm and slightly lazy. Even so, she drew the attention of many people nearby.
"You do realize that by doing this, you're making things much harder for Shirō," she said.
"That's what makes it interesting," Ash replied with a faint smile. "With Shirō's current strength, winning the Kanto League is almost guaranteed. If I don't give him some obstacles, how will he gain real experience?"
With that, Ash stood up and returned to the room with Sabrina.
Meanwhile, the unaware Shirō had no idea that his most respected master had already set multiple hurdles in his path. Whether he could overcome them… would depend entirely on himself.