Aspiring to become a Pokémon trainer

Stepping out of the arrival hall, the bright sunlight instantly flooded in, carrying the dry warmth unique to tropical regions. Unlike the gentle sea breeze of Galar, the air in Hoenn is filled with the fragrance of flowers, earth, and sun-baked aromas, vibrant and lively, instantly relieving the fatigue of the journey.

"Over here, two young ladies~"

The last syllable rose slightly, and a clear voice pierced through the bustling crowd not far away.

Looking in the direction of the sound, one could see a distinctive figure standing in the waiting area waving. Her emerald hair reflected iridescent light in the sunlight, and her smile was even brighter than the spring breeze.

Wallace, the successor champion of Hoenn, and Steven's best friend.

Unlike the glamorous attire of the arena and celebrations, his casual inner trousers, though ordinary, accentuated his effortless and carefree demeanor. Beside him, Milotic gracefully unfurled its long, silky tail, its fins gently swaying and creating delicate splashes of water, drawing frequent glances from passersby.

"Mr. Mikkuri." Knowing that the champion would come to pick her up, Nan Yin simply stepped forward and nodded slightly. Korrina also greeted her with a smile, but her gaze couldn't help being drawn to Milotic's elegant figure—even trainers who had seen countless Pokémon couldn't resist the charm of this water-type Pokémon.

"You must be tired from your journey." Mikoli's gaze swept over the two of them, finally landing on the unusual purplish-black mark on the girl's wrist. A look of surprise flashed in his eyes, but he did not ask any further questions. "Although the Championship Tournament was temporarily canceled due to the Eternatus incident, the handover between regions is still necessary, which is why Daigo returned a few days later than you."

"Honestly, that guy couldn't even make it here in time, but he insisted that I come to pick you up first, saying it was 'basic etiquette for the host'."

It was clearly a joke, a playful teasing of a friend.

His gaze naturally fell on the Poké Ball held by Nan Yin. Sensing the calm aura emanating from it, he couldn't help but reveal a gentle expression: "This must be the Shellder Dragon that Fu Ye poured his heart and soul into, right? I can feel the power contained within it even through the Poké Ball, like a tide gathering and waiting to be unleashed, calm yet full of resilience."

Nan Yin gently stroked the sphere with her fingertips. "It has been working very hard."

“It seems you and it have both put in a lot of hard work. Yes, a hardworking little guy will always achieve his own transformation.” Mikoli blinked, her tone carrying the wisdom of someone who has been through it all. “Just like the tides of Hoenn, they never fail the shore that waits patiently.”

Eevee peeked out from the girl's backpack, sniffing the air as if recalling the beginning of its journey. It leaped to Milotic, lightly touched the ground with its toes, and gracefully took a few steps before its ribbons billowed and danced in the wind.

"Haha, this kid, could it be that he's trying to outdo my Milotic, or perhaps, little guy, you want to prove that your former dull and mediocre self has now become a swan that can stand beside a trainer and add a lot of glory to them?"

Bend down, Mikoli's gaze was gentle, a gesture of lingering satisfaction. He subconsciously reached out to stroke the beast, but saw it raise its pointed ears, revealing its fangs, and displaying its intimidating power without hesitation.

It was a clear refusal.

Although it is very cute, its essence of only being devoted to one girl has never changed.

"It's really funny, I haven't even reached out yet. I still remember when you and Ibrahimovic were just newcomers embarking on your journey, naive but full of aspirations. Now, you have achieved your goals and are even close to standing in front of me."

"Perhaps I should offer some praise, hmm—"

"As expected, I have a good eye for people."

There was silence for a moment, and even Nan Yin turned her face away, pretending not to recognize the person in front of her.

"It's just a lighthearted remark. Daigo won't be back for quite a while, whether it's the matter in Green Moss City or many other trivial matters. Why don't we rest in Lilycove City for a while first? The seaside promenade here is perfect for a stroll, and there's a fireworks display at night too."

Chapter 267 Evolution, Salamence

Mikoli's suggestion was like a pebble thrown into a lake, creating ripples in the hearts of the girls.

Korne's amber eyes lit up instantly, her gaze filled with excitement as she looked at her friend. No words were needed; her longing for the unknown scenery and the lively celebration was clearly written on her face.

"Fireworks display?" Nan Yin repeated softly, her gaze sweeping over the azure sea bathed in sunlight behind Mikoli.

The sea breeze seemed to become gentler, its warm, moist air caressing my cheeks. The tension that had been building up since the Mukyuutai incident seemed to be quietly soothed by this warmth.

She was a quiet person, but looking at the blonde girl beside her, she felt the eager anticipation emanating from her, so she nodded slightly, and a faint but affectionate smile appeared on the girl's lips, "Alright."

“A wise choice!” Mikkel clapped his hands and chuckled, then said loudly, “Then, please follow me. These two ladies who have come from afar deserve a Hoenn-style welcome.”

The seaside promenade meanders along one side, with soft white sand and clear emerald waves on the other, and low walls covered with vines and tropical flowers on the other.

Eevee leaped nimbly onto the low wall, its ribbon-like tail brushing against the blooming flowers, attracting several hunting butterflies that curiously circled around it. Eevee, drawn to the busy Sand Dune on the beach, held up its thorny vine and carefully imitated the Sand Dune's sandcastle-building motions, eliciting a puzzled tilt of its head from the Sand Dune.

Acting as the most competent guide, the champion spoke in a light tone, as if reciting a familiar story: "Look over there, the famous 'Heart Drop' fountain—legend has it that Latias and Latios left their blessings here."

“There’s also the ‘Sea Corridor.’ At dusk, the setting sun turns the entire boardwalk golden, making it a favorite spot for couples.” He blinked slightly, his gaze subtly shifting between Nan Yin and Ke Er Ni, hinting at something more.

The hotel is built along the stream, and opening the glass doors to the terrace reveals an endless sea view. Tiny white waves lap against the golden sand, and the cries of long-winged gulls blend with the sound of the waves to create a soothing melody. The room is decorated in a fresh and elegant style, with huge floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of sunlight, and the air is filled with the faint fragrance of sea breeze and flowers.

“Get some rest,” Mikkel handed over the room key. “I’ll be waiting for you downstairs this evening. The fireworks display needs a little ceremony to begin.”

With a smile, she glanced at the serene purplish-black on Nan Yin's wrist. "Of course, this 'special friend' is also welcome to experience the warmth of Hoenn."

As the door closed softly, the noise inside subsided. Korni cheered and threw herself onto the soft bed, burying her face in the fluffy pillows.

"It feels so good, my bones feel so soft."

Never hiding her natural liveliness, the blonde girl was like a large golden retriever, always crowding around him, "Nan Yin, what do you think the fireworks festival is like? Will it be more spectacular than Carlos's celebration?"

Carlos's celebrations, if placed in the earlier past, in those rare leisure holidays, were the Spring Festival, a time when people could sleep peacefully.

Lost in thought, Nan Yin, unusually, did not respond. Instead, she walked to the edge of the terrace, leaned on the cool railing, and gazed at the distant sea and sky, letting the sea breeze, carrying moisture, tousle her silvery-white hair.

Fingertips brushed against the armlet formed from the Boundless Void on her wrist; beneath its icy touch, she could almost feel an extremely subtle pulse of energy. Was it asleep, or simply observing this world indifferent to her?

So she spoke again.

"The fireworks in each place have their own unique flavor, whether it's Carlos, Galar, or Hoenn."

......

Night fell, as soft as velvet, gently blanketing the city of Mizusui. The daytime hustle and bustle gradually subsided, replaced by the soothing lapping of the waves and the enticing aromas of various snacks filling the air.

The seaside promenade has now transformed into a bustling river of people, with lights stretching out like stars.

The crowds thronged, filled with laughter and chatter. Couples in yukatas strolled hand in hand, children ran excitedly carrying pinwheels or glowing balloons, and elderly people sat on benches fanning themselves with palm-leaf fans. Pokémon were the stars of the show: Roselia twirled gracefully on its owner's shoulder, scattering fine pollen; several Slimies held hands, dancing joyfully to the shamisen music of a roadside performer; a Ludicolo, balancing a basin of water on its head, performed a comical juggling act, drawing cheers from the crowd.

"How lively!" Korne looked around excitedly, naturally taking her friend's arm, her face slightly flushed, like a curious little bird.

Nan Yin let her lead her, her gaze sweeping over the lively scene, her emotions gradually calming down in the warm atmosphere.

In the past, she was unwilling to trust unwarranted kindness and found it difficult to find joy in her arduous and exhausting life. Thus, she was alone, weary and burdened. This companionship, melted by kindness and infected by vitality, may have been tinged with helplessness, but it was a warmth that the girl had never experienced in her previous life.

Restless yet happy.

Perhaps that's why she repeatedly took her feelings lightly and denied them on several occasions. And it's also because of this that she shed her usual indifference and gradually began to try to accept and indulge them.

That's why she examined herself at that time, and finally opened her heart after her friend's desperate confession.

How difficult it was, Mother, I have finally found my own luck.

"It seems you found the splendor of this fireworks display without my guidance."

With their palms gently clasped together, a green-haired man in a wide robe walked over from the side, silently following the two.

Following Mikkelsen's lead, they arrived at the viewing platform, a slightly elevated spot offering a panoramic view of the entire bay and the area where the fireworks would soon be launched. Waiters had already laid out soft cushions and prepared tea and fruit.

"The warmth of Hoenn is not just a visual feast," the man said, sitting on the ground and gazing into the darkening sea, "but also a harmonious melody played together with the ocean, the land, and the Pokémon that live here."

"It's about to begin."

It was an opening that was full of anticipation.

boom--

The first enormous golden chrysanthemum bloomed brilliantly in the sky, instantly illuminating countless faces looking up and reflecting on the sea.

The crowd erupted in a unified gasp of amazement.

Immediately afterwards, silver willow branches drooped, blue butterflies fluttered, and fiery red koi swam and darted about. The night sky became the most magnificent canvas, and the ever-changing, dazzling patterns, accompanied by continuous booming sounds, pushed the festive atmosphere to its peak.

Each grand display is accompanied by a massive spray of water from the whale king beneath the sea surface, serving as a natural curtain. There are also specks of fluorescent light laid out by lanternfish and electric light monsters, sometimes surging with the tides, sometimes dimming with the sound of people.

The Wuji Taina on its wrist rippled again, this time not with scrutiny, but more like...confusion. It couldn't understand why these tiny creatures could rejoice over such simple, fleeting light and scent. Nan Yin didn't explain, but simply sent a wisp of warm night breeze carrying the aroma of roasted corn through her thoughts.

At that moment, the girl felt something and looked down at her waist.

The Poké Ball containing the Shellder Dragon is now radiating a warm, burning current. A vibrant, energetic life force, yearning to break free from its constraints, can be clearly felt even through the ball's walls.

"Nanyin, is it a shelled dragon?"

"It is the result of years of hard work and accumulation."

Without denying it, Nan Yin gently tossed the sphere into the air. After a year, amidst the booming fireworks, on this vibrant and passionate land of Hoenn, the young dragon beast finally broke through its last shackle.

The dazzling light of evolution shone brightly against the backdrop of a sky full of fiery flames.

The halo faded, followed by—

"hold head high!"

A dragon's roar, piercing through the clouds and splitting rocks, filled with immense power, suddenly drowned out all the booming of fireworks. The dragon's roar was not violent, but rather carried the joy of breaking free from shackles.

The heavy gray armor seemed to be torn apart and shattered from the inside by an invisible force, replaced by blue scales covering the entire body and strong, broad shoulders.

A pair of huge, powerful crimson membrane wings tore through the airflow, their wingspan obscuring the bright moon and overturning its radiance. Its thick neck was held high, its head was imposing, its mouth was filled with sharp teeth, and its vertical pupils were fully open, like molten gold, burning with a domineering ambition to look down on the sky.

A flying dragon! A crimson crescent moon soaring through the sky.

Its enormous body almost filled the entire spacious terrace, and the light of evolution completely dissipated, leaving only the giant shadow that stood proudly, covered in blue scales.

With a slight bow of its head, its vertical pupils, like molten gold, precisely locked onto the figure below—a figure that seemed insignificant to it yet carried all its trust and longing—Nan Yin.

The enormous head slowly lowered, carrying a newly formed, yet not fully controlled, power, and cautiously brushed against the girl's cheek. Its scalding breath, hot with sulfur, ruffled Nan Yin's silver hair.

It let out a low, almost sobbing growl, as if confirming something, or as if expressing all the grievances of the long wait and the excitement of finally achieving its long-cherished wish.

Without the slightest fear, the girl raised her hand, her palm firmly resting on the dragon's still-warm, hard, and smooth forehead. What she felt at her fingertips was a boundless life force, a scorching heat, and the throbbing of blood ties.

She had a premonition of this and anticipated her rebirth soon.

Yes, evolution in battle can be called a bond, but the true fruit of cultivation is the gradual accumulation of knowledge and the natural unfolding of talent.

Don't you see, the young man who came from Zhenxin Town, Yanlong, realized his talent too early, and spent the rest of his life making up for that moment of recklessness.

This child witnessed her growth, and she, in turn, witnessed this child transform from a small beast in her arms into a giant dragon that shelters the sun and wind and rain throughout the night.

"Thank you for your hard work all this time."

Their eyes met, and she tiptoed to gently press her forehead against his, as if entrusting him with her trust.

"From now on, it will be your responsibility to protect me and them."

As if sensing something, the Wuji Tai, which was lurking on its wrist, let out a barely perceptible wisp of energy from beneath its cold eyes, silently brushing against the joints of the Flying Dragon's wings, which were just about to unfold but were still stiff.

The subtle energy, carrying a sense of harmony and smoothness, instantly soothed the stiffness and discomfort of the newly sprouted wings as they first unfolded.

Having done all this, the armlet fell completely silent, remaining motionless, as if this act of assistance had been merely a fleeting, unintentional act, just like before—

A wisp of night breeze.

Chapter 270 Deoxys (4k)

As the window curtains were drawn, the morning light poured into the room.

Open the window, and a gentle sea breeze will caress you.

After a night of fireworks, a bright and sunny day arrives, bringing warmth and comfort.

Pour the water used for rinsing into the sink, then wipe your face a few times with a damp towel.

Water droplets flowed down her chin and then dripped gently off.

Not particularly meticulous, but decisive and efficient, coupled with a few slightly damp strands of hair on his forehead and his delicately shaped collarbone, he exudes a dashing and unrestrained charm.

The cool sensation slightly eased her early morning drowsiness. After washing her face, Nan Yin quickly walked towards the courtyard of the villa.

Looking out into the distance, one can see the shimmering waves and the calm sea. The hustle and bustle of the night has faded away, and at this moment, the city of Seminyak is like a piece of warm jade, tranquil and clear.

"hold head high......"

A low, clumsy, and tentative hum came from behind, along with the scraping sound of a heavy object being carefully moved.

Nan Yin turned around.

The newly born Salamence occupied a considerable area of ​​the courtyard. Its already outstanding talent, coupled with the girl's careful nurturing over the past year, has evolved to the point that its size alone surpasses that of most of its kind, not to mention the resources accumulated during its metamorphosis.

The azure scales shimmered with a cold, hard luster in the morning light. The pair of crimson membranous wings, which were large enough to blot out the sun, were now somewhat awkwardly folded up, like two enormous, magnificent banners that seemed unsure of where to place.

It was trying to move forward without crushing the flowers and grass, and bring that rugged head closer to the trainer in front of it.

The molten gold in his vertical pupils had lost the wildness that had dominated the sky the night before; instead, they were filled with the bewilderment of a newborn calf and the distress over his own enormous size.

"puff."

A smile flickered in Nan Yin's eyes, just as the sea breeze gently lifted half of her silver hair.

Take your time.

She stepped forward and placed her palm against the dragon's rough forehead, releasing her mental energy to share her senses. Perhaps this was the most direct way to empathize.

"Feel every muscle, every scale. The power is yours, and so is your body."

The Salamence paused, its massive head turning slightly to reveal the girl's beautiful figure. It seemed to be truly responding to its command; its enormous body no longer moved stiffly, but remained stationary with an almost frozen focus.