Pokemon: A New Path

Chapter 441: Koraidon and Cyclizar

In the pasture, Koraidon lowered its head and gazed at Cyclizar.

It understood why Cyclizar was feeling so down—it had once experienced the same feelings itself.

Back then, Koraidon had spoken words to it that had stayed with it to this day. Remembering this, Koraidon opened its mouth and said, "Raao?" (There are things I can do, and there are things you can do.)

Cyclizar blinked, confused, its wide eyes filled with uncertainty. "Gaaao?" (What does that mean?) it asked hesitantly.

Koraidon's golden eyes locked onto Cyclizar's, its expression serious. "Raao?" (Haven't you always wanted to be Naoki's most dependable Pokémon? Are you ready to give up now? Can you really help Naoki like this?)

Cyclizar's gaze wavered. It hadn't expected Koraidon to bring up such a topic. Yet the words seemed to strike a chord deep within its heart, and it lowered its head in dejection.

"Gaaao..." (You can do all those things. Naoki doesn't need me...) Cyclizar murmured softly.

Its eyes lingered on Koraidon. The towering Pokémon was strong, majestic, and capable in every way.

Cyclizar had always wanted to be like that.

But it knew it was impossible. Unlike other Pokémon, Cyclizar couldn't evolve. It would never undergo a miraculous transformation.

Hearing Cyclizar's words, Koraidon let out a soft sigh.

It shook its head and said gently, "Raao." (One day, you will help Naoki. You'll become his most dependable Pokémon, just like me.)

Cyclizar's eyes widened in surprise. It looked at Koraidon with doubt and confusion.

"Gaaao?" (How do you know that?)

Koraidon didn't respond directly. Instead, it silently thought to itself: Because I am you—from the future.

There had never been another Koraidon; it was always the kind-hearted Cyclizar.

After a brief pause, Koraidon spoke again, its tone calm yet resolute. "Raao." (One day, I'll leave this place, and Naoki will be in your care.)

Since only one of them could exist, Koraidon had decided that its past self should remain with Naoki. It planned to ensure that Cyclizar never went near the time machine, sparing it the lonely years of gazing at the moon in ancient times.

Cyclizar's expression shifted to one of shock. "Gaaao?" (Leave? Where would you go?)

Koraidon remained silent for a moment. It didn't fully understand how time might correct itself if events were altered. Perhaps it would disappear entirely.

"Raao," Koraidon finally said, its tone light. (Before that happens, I'll stay by Naoki's side a little longer.)

Cyclizar's heart sank. Was it its fault that Koraidon wanted to leave?

But Cyclizar knew Koraidon's story. Naoki had once explained that Koraidon came from a distant, dangerous place—a place teeming with ferocious Pokémon. Through countless battles, Koraidon had grown into the mighty Pokémon it is today.@@novelbin@@

And yet, despite its strength, Koraidon was alone here. No mother. No friends.

Cyclizar felt a pang of guilt. If Koraidon left, where would it go?

Cyclizar hesitated, then spoke in a trembling voice. "Gaaao!" (If you leave, Naoki will be so sad. I can share my mother's love! Please stay!)

Koraidon blinked. Share your mother's love? She's my mother too, it thought, bemused.

But it didn't respond to Cyclizar's plea. Instead, Koraidon said, "Raao!" (Let's make a pact.)

"Gaaao?" Cyclizar tilted its head.

"Raao." (What happened today will remain a secret. Don't tell Naoki. In the meantime, I'll teach you everything I know so you can use those skills to protect Naoki in the future.)

This was the promise Koraidon made to its past self.

Cyclizar looked up, unsure of what to say. It didn't fully understand, but it could sense Koraidon's determination.

Koraidon continued, its tone firm, "Raao." (You'll need these skills one day. If you stay like this, you won't be able to help Naoki when I'm gone.)

The words hit Cyclizar hard. It had always wanted to protect Naoki, to be the Pokémon he could rely on most.

The two Pokémon locked eyes.

Koraidon's gaze was steady and resolute, and Cyclizar felt a flicker of hope reignite within itself.

Could it really become that strong? Could it truly be the kind of Pokémon Naoki needed?

Cyclizar sat quietly for a moment, its thoughts swirling. Finally, it raised its head and declared, "Gaaao, Gaaao!" (I'll do it and never give up again!)

Cyclizar thought that its envy of Koraidon, Naoki's most dependable assistant, was the reason Koraidon was planning to leave the ranch

"Raao..." Koraidon sighed.

'I was so childish and annoying back then,' Koraidon thought to itself, 'skipping meals over something like that... I was so foolish.'

As Naoki fished the two roosters out of the river, he noticed Koraidon speaking with Cyclizar in the distance. A thought struck him, and a realization dawned.

Could it be that his little Cyclizar had fallen into this state because of Koraidon?

In the early days, he would ask both Pokémon to assist him in turns. But as the ranch expanded and more Pokémon joined, Naoki had to focus on the new additions. For convenience, he often rode on Koraidon when traveling, unintentionally neglecting Cyclizar.

Under these circumstances, Cyclizar may have felt abandoned, leading to its current sadness and emotional turmoil.

'Is this my fault?'

Naoki's heart sank as guilt settled in. It's not too late to make things right. Resolving to do better, Naoki decided he would dedicate more time to Cyclizar moving forward.

He asked Flareon to use its warm breath to dry the drenched roosters. Once done, he handed the now-fluffy birds back to Pawmot's parents and reassured them the roosters were fine. However, as a precaution, Naoki also prepared some medicine to ensure they wouldn't fall ill.

With that task complete, Naoki returned to Koraidon and Cyclizar, determined to spend the rest of the day with Cyclizar and help it feel loved again.

Smiling, Naoki approached the two Pokémon. "What are you two talking about?"

Cyclizar instinctively glanced at Koraidon.

Koraidon let out a playful chirp and trotted off, leaving the two alone. It seemed Koraidon wanted to give Cyclizar and Naoki some private time together.

Naoki watched Koraidon leave and couldn't help but feel something was amiss between the two Pokémon. "What did Koraidon say to you? It didn't bully you, did it?"

Cyclizar quickly shook its head, chirping in protest. "Gah!" (Koraidon didn't bully me!)

Naoki smiled knowingly. Cyclizar's demeanor made it clear that whatever Koraidon had said had helped ease its troubled heart.

"So," Naoki continued, "what were you two whispering about?"

Cyclizar remembered the agreement it had made with Koraidon and clamped its mouth shut, refusing to say anything.

Naoki chuckled. "Let me guess—Koraidon was comforting you, wasn't it?"

Cyclizar's wide eyes betrayed its surprise. "Gaao?" (How did you know?)

"We've lived together for so long," Naoki said, smiling gently, "how could I not know?"

Cyclizar's expression softened, and its face lit up with a mix of bashfulness and relief. But then, it saw Naoki's expression grow serious.

Naoki reached out and rested a hand on Cyclizar's head. "I'm sorry, Cyclizar. I wasn't thoughtful enough and failed to notice how you were feeling."

"Gah…" Cyclizar's eyes filled with tears, overwhelmed by a mix of relief and pent-up emotion.

"Are you feeling so upset because you think I don't need you anymore? That you're not important?" Naoki asked gently.

Tears spilling over, Cyclizar nodded. "Gaaaa!"

Naoki shook his head firmly. "That's not true at all. I don't need you to do anything for me or prove yourself. Just being here with you makes me happy."

Cyclizar blinked through its tears, tilting its head in confusion.

"You know," Naoki continued, "the first Pokémon a trainer bonds with is always special. You're the first Pokémon I've had since coming to this ranch."

Memories of Cyclizar flooded Naoki's mind. Its carefree joy as it chased butterflies in the pasture, its contentment as it dozed by the fireplace, and its earnest effort as it helped him harvest crops—all of it filled Naoki's heart with warmth.

"If you weren't here anymore, if I couldn't see you on the ranch, I'd be heartbroken."

Naoki crouched, his voice earnest and direct. "Cyclizar, you're very important to me. If you ever ran away or decided you didn't want to stay with me anymore, I'd be devastated."

"Gah…" Cyclizar's tears welled up again as it listened, deeply moved.

"Do you understand?" Naoki asked softly.

Cyclizar nodded firmly, its tearful eyes shining with newfound determination. "Gaao!" (Yes, I understand!)

"Good," Naoki said, a warm smile spreading across his face. He ruffled Cyclizar's head affectionately. "Now, let's head home! You haven't had a proper meal in days. Let's fix that—I'll make you something special."

"Gah!"

Cyclizar quickly got to its feet and followed Naoki back toward the house.

The pair entered the cozy kitchen. Naoki opened the refrigerator, rummaging through its contents while asking with a smile, "Is there anything you'd like to eat?"

Cyclizar chirped, "Gah!"

The Rotom Phone hovered nearby, translating the response: "[Hot noodle soup!]"

"Hot noodle soup?" Naoki blinked in surprise. That was the dish he'd made on his very first morning at the ranch, back when ingredients were scarce, and they had to make do with what little they had.

His mind wandered to that chilly spring morning two years ago. He and Cyclizar had huddled in the tiny, drafty old house, sipping hot noodle soup together. At the time, Cyclizar hadn't been a fan of the soup's simple flavor, so Naoki hadn't made it for the Pokémon again. Since then, Cyclizar had grown to enjoy sandwiches, steaks, and barbecue dishes more.

But now, seeing Cyclizar eager to give it another try, Naoki grinned warmly. "Alright, I'll make you a fresh bowl of hot noodle soup."

Things were different now. Their lives had improved, and the once-bare pantry and refrigerator were now stocked with an abundance of ingredients. They could afford to eat whatever they liked.

After some searching, Naoki found a pack of noodles hidden in the cupboard. He set a pot of water on the stove, bringing it to a gentle boil before adding the noodles. As they softened, he chopped some green onions and set aside a spoonful of lard, letting the noodles absorb the broth's rich aroma.

As he worked, Naoki reflected on how much had changed. When he first made this dish, Cyclizar had been just a few months old, a tiny and curious Pokémon new to the ranch. Now, Cyclizar was fully grown, brimming with personality.

A fond smile crossed Naoki's face as he reached for a bottle of sesame oil, adding a delicate drizzle to the pot. He carefully placed a soft-boiled egg into the soup, using chopsticks to pierce it slightly. The golden yolk oozed into the broth, blending perfectly with the other flavors.

Finally, Naoki turned off the heat and poured the noodles into a white porcelain bowl. Chopped green onions floated on the surface, adding a vibrant pop of color. Just looking at the dish was enough to make anyone's stomach growl.

"Hot noodle soup, ready!" Naoki announced, placing the bowl in front of Cyclizar.

Before serving, Naoki habitually checked the effect of the dish. However, what he saw left him stunned.

The description was different from the usual hot noodle soup he remembered.

[Blessing Noodle Soup (A): A special dish imbued with deep emotions. It is said that those who eat it can have their wishes granted.]

Cooking Effect: Prayer. Those who consume it may find their wish fulfilled.

Comment: Looking forward to the future while cherishing the past. A life of abundance may bring joy, but the struggles of simpler days are often the most treasured.

"Huh?" Naoki blinked, staring at the unusual description. It felt surreal.

Cyclizar tilted its head, noticing Naoki's reaction. "Gah?" it chirped curiously.

Snapping out of his daze, Naoki smiled and said, "Go ahead and eat. Make a wish afterward—this bowl might just grant it."

Cyclizar looked surprised. "Gah?" (Really?)

Naoki nodded with a grin. "It's worth a try, right?"

Encouraged, Cyclizar eagerly began to eat, slurping up the noodles with gusto. It was far tastier than the first time it had tried the dish. The rich flavors brought a warm, comforting feeling, and Cyclizar couldn't help but savor every bite. When the bowl was empty, it licked the last drop of soup and closed its eyes, ready to make a wish.

What should I wish for? Cyclizar thought deeply, its mind swirling with possibilities.

Its thoughts drifted to Naoki, to the other Pokémon on the ranch, and finally to Koraidon.

Cyclizar made its wish quietly in its heart: it hoped that Koraidon would stay and never leave, continuing to remain with Naoki.

With this thought, Cyclizar no longer felt inadequate compared to Koraidon. Naoki's earlier words resonated within it—Cyclizar was unique and just as important to him.

After making its wish, Cyclizar opened its eyes, a faint spark of hope shining within them. Surely, now, Koraidon would stay, right?

"What did you wish for?" Naoki asked curiously.

Cyclizar hesitated, remembering the pact it had made with Koraidon. Shaking its head, it chirped, "Gah!" (It's a secret!)

Naoki chuckled, sensing Cyclizar's playful reluctance. "Alright, I won't pry. I just hope your wish comes true," he said warmly as he stood to clean up the kitchen.

Cyclizar lingered nearby, watching him in silence.

In the living room, Glaceon, Ogerpon, Alcremie, and Pawmot peeked around the corner, their eyes filled with concern as they watched Cyclizar.

Naoki noticed them and gently nudged Cyclizar. "Glaceon and the others were really worried about you earlier. Don't you think you should go talk to them?"

Cyclizar followed Naoki's gaze and saw its friends huddled together. Memories of its recent behavior made Cyclizar feel embarrassed, but thinking of how much they cared, it gathered its courage and trotted over to them.

As Cyclizar reunited with its friends, Naoki busied himself with the dishes. The younger Indeedee sibling approached, offering to help, but Naoki waved her off. "No, you go rest. I'll handle everything today."

The Indeedee siblings worked tirelessly every day, tending to chores and helping the Pokémon. Naoki wanted to give them a well-deserved break.

Touched by Naoki's thoughtfulness, the younger sibling scurried off to rest, while the elder lingered nearby, keeping a quiet watch in case Naoki needed assistance.

Naoki's mind wandered back to Koraidon. Its actions today had been nothing short of surprising—comforting Cyclizar, of all things. Although Naoki didn't know the exact details of their conversation, it was clear that whatever Koraidon said had eased Cyclizar's troubled heart.

It was remarkable to see how much Koraidon had adapted and grown since arriving at the ranch. Once a solitary and fierce Pokémon, it had now become a mentor and friend.

Naoki couldn't help but imagine Dr. Sada's reaction. The renowned researcher would probably exclaim in disbelief: "What?! A Pokémon as strong and temperamental as Koraidon consoling another Pokémon? That's incredible!"

Just as Naoki finished cleaning the dishes, his Rotom Phone buzzed with a video call from the researchers in Area Zero.

The screen flickered to life, revealing Dr. Sada's smiling face. "Long time no see, Naoki!" she greeted warmly.

"Long time no see, Doctor!" Naoki replied with a grin. "How's the research going in Area Zero?"

"Everything's progressing smoothly," Dr. Sada said with a nod.

Naoki scanned the background of the call but only spotted Dr. Turo. Curious, he asked, "Where's Arven?"

Dr. Sada smiled wistfully. "He's studying at the Paldea Academy now. He's surrounded by peers his age, so I'm sure he'll make plenty of friends. We didn't want him to feel lonely."

"Arven's started school already?" Naoki mused aloud. Time truly flew by. He still remembered meeting Arven as a quiet, reserved boy.

Dr. Sada nodded. "He has, but battling isn't really his strong suit. He's much more interested in cooking. I sometimes wonder if you had any influence on that."

Naoki: "…"

He felt slightly accused but quickly dismissed it. Arven's culinary interests were entirely his own.

"But enough about that," Dr. Sada continued. "I wanted to check in on Koraidon and Flutter Mane. How are they doing?"

Naoki's mind flashed back to Koraidon's conversation with Cyclizar earlier.

He told Dr. Sada what had just happened.

As Naoki anticipated, Dr. Sada's face lit up with surprise and curiosity.

"What...?" she muttered, momentarily stunned. Then, her expression turned thoughtful. "Fascinating. Koraidon actually took the initiative to comfort another Pokémon. It seems it has fully adapted to the modern world we live in."

Naoki nodded in agreement, reflecting on the parallels between Koraidon and Cyclizar described in various theories.

Some claim that Koraidon represents what Cyclizar might have looked like in the distant past, while Miraidon is what Cyclizar could evolve into in the far future.

Naoki had yet to encounter evidence in this world to confirm such claims, but the idea intrigued him.

After a moment of thought, he asked, "Doctor, have you ever noticed how similar the appearances of Koraidon, Cyclizar, and Miraidon are? Could there be some kind of connection between them?"

Dr. Sada nodded thoughtfully. "It's certainly possible. According to the research Turo and I have conducted, it's highly likely that Cyclizar is a natural evolutionary descendant of the ancient Pokémon, Koraidon."

She continued, "As you know, a Pokémon's appearance and traits can change significantly depending on the environment they live in. This is evident in the various regional forms we've seen across the world."

"For example, during Koraidon's era, the atmosphere contained a much higher oxygen concentration, and the air was suffused with a type of primal, violent energy. Perhaps this is why ancient Pokémon like Koraidon, Slither Wing, and Roaring Moon exhibited such fierce and beast-like behaviors, resembling untamed creatures rather than intelligent beings."

Dr. Sada paused, then added with a smile, "Of course, your Koraidon and Flutter Mane are exception to this."

Naoki nodded, taking it all in.

Primal, violent energy?

The term triggered a memory: Primal Reversion.

This phenomenon, seen in the legendary Pokémon Groudon and Kyogre, involves a return to their original forms when exposed to vast amounts of natural energy.

Dr. Sada continued her explanation. "As time passed, the oxygen levels in the atmosphere decreased, and the primal energy in the air dissipated. This led to significant changes in Pokémon over generations, ultimately resulting in the forms we see today."

"Additionally, the emergence of Berries provided Pokémon with abundant and accessible nutrition, eliminating the need for constant hunting. Over time, this contributed to more harmonious relationships among species, except for a few natural predators."

Naoki nodded in understanding, the pieces falling into place.

Suddenly, a bold idea struck him. "Doctor, do you think it's possible for Cyclizar to revert to its original form, transforming into Koraidon?"

Dr. Sada raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the concept. "Primal Reversion? That's an interesting comparison. While it's theoretically possible, I can't say for certain. We've never had the opportunity to directly observe Koraidon's time period or the mechanisms that shaped its environment."

She looked wistful, her gaze softening. "I've always dreamed of witnessing the ancient world firsthand, to see Pokémon like Koraidon and Flutter Mane in their natural habitats."

But then, her expression grew somber. "Unfortunately, it's a dream that's hard to achieve. My family ties and responsibilities keep me grounded in this time."

Naoki could sense the longing in her voice but respected her reasoning. He let go of the idea with a twinge of regret.

His thoughts shifted to Pokémon of the future, like Miraidon and Iron Valiant.

"What about the Pokémon from the future?" Naoki asked. "Do you think their mechanical forms are natural, or were they artificially modified?"

Dr. Turo, who had been listening quietly in the background, stepped forward to answer.

"The Pokémon from the future are likely products of a technological era. My research suggests that Pokémon like Iron Valiant exhibit signs of artificial creation."

Turo adjusted his glasses and continued, "It's plausible that these Pokémon are bionic creations, engineered by a future society or a particularly ambitious scientist fascinated by Pokémon."

From what Dr. Turo said, had he established a connection with the Iron Valiant?

Naoki was very surprised because the Iron Warrior was known for its cruel temperament!

"We employed a unique method to establish a connection between me and Iron Valiant," he explained. "If you're interested, Naoki, you're welcome to visit the Zero Area Research Institute anytime. We'd be happy to explain it to you in detail."

With Koraidon by his side, Naoki felt confident he could navigate Area Zero with ease. After all, the Pokémon had proven invaluable in many challenging situations.

Additionally, someone from the Paldea League had reached out to Naoki before. Upon learning that he had entered Area Zero, they had informed him that he no longer needed to apply for special clearance from the League to explore the region.

As for who had granted this permission, it was none other than Geeta, the Champion of the Paldea region.

Dr. Sada and Dr. Turo were genuinely surprised to learn that Geeta and Naoki were acquainted. They made this particular call to inform him of the new privileges he had been granted.

Naoki, however, was incredulous. "Geeta really trusts me that much?"

"I'll have to thank the Champion in person later," Naoki said with a small chuckle.

Dr. Sada smiled warmly. "That sounds like a good idea. Well, that's all for now. Next time we chat, let's discuss more about ancient Pokémon."

With that, the call ended.

...

At the Same Time in the Paldea League Headquarters…

Geeta was using her Rotom Phone to call Iono, the enthusiastic Electric-type Gym Leader, intending to have a casual conversation—and perhaps test her reactions.

Iono, meanwhile, was at home editing one of her latest videos. The sudden ringing of her Rotom Phone startled her, and when she saw Geeta's name displayed, her heart skipped a beat.

'It's the Chief!' she thought, momentarily panicked. 'Could this be about her Gym's performance? Was Geeta calling to evaluate her work?'

But then she glanced at the clock. 'Oh, it's after hours… so it's probably not an inspection.'

With that reassurance, Iono answered the call, putting on her characteristic lively tone. "Hello, hello! Good afternoon, Chief!"

Geeta's warm smile appeared on the screen. "Good afternoon, Iono. How are things going with your Gym? Have you encountered any challenges?"

"Everything's going great!" Iono replied, her confidence shining through. "No issues at all!"

"Glad to hear that," Geeta said. Her tone shifted slightly, becoming more conversational. "By the way, I heard from Rika that you and Naoki seem to have a good relationship. Is that true?"

"Naoki?" Iono blinked in surprise. The abrupt change in topic caught her off guard, and for a moment, she wasn't sure how to respond. "Uh…"

Geeta raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Is something wrong?"

"No, no! It's fine!" Iono said hastily, waving her hands as if to dispel any misunderstanding. "Naoki and I are friends!"

"Friends…" Geeta repeated, her smile turning ever so slightly mischievous.

Iono: "?"

There seemed to be something off about the chief today.

Just as Iono was about to ask what was going on, Geeta suddenly changed the subject.

"By the way, Iono, you're turning nineteen this year, right?" Geeta asked casually.

Iono, slightly confused, nodded. "Yeah, I just celebrated my eighteenth birthday not long ago. I'll be nineteen soon."

"Time flies, doesn't it?" Geeta said with a nostalgic smile. "I still remember when you first became a Gym Leader—you were just fourteen or fifteen… almost three years younger than Naoki. Have you ever met anyone you like?"

Iono was completely taken aback. A big question mark practically popped over her head. The chief was acting so odd today.

"Chief, isn't it a bit early to talk about this kind of thing?" she said, trying to brush it off.

"Is it?" Geeta replied with a knowing smile. "Well, maybe for you. But for Naoki, the time might be just right. I'm thinking of introducing him to a few suitable candidates and setting him up on a blind date. What do you think?"

"What?!" Iono exclaimed, her voice filled with disbelief. For a moment, she stared at Geeta, completely stunned. "Naoki doesn't seem like he's in a hurry for something like that… right?"

Geeta chuckled. "Well, we'll only know if we try, won't we? Besides, there are a few people in the Paldea League who would be a great match for Naoki. I called you today to get your opinion since you're his friend."

Iono felt herself starting to panic. Sure, they were friends, but…

Geeta watched Iono's reaction carefully. The younger woman's visible distraction and unease spoke volumes. Geeta smiled inwardly, satisfied that her suspicions were correct.

"You like him, don't you?" Geeta asked gently, her tone tinged with amusement.

Iono's eyes widened in shock, and she stared at Geeta as if she'd just been caught red-handed.

Geeta laughed softly and continued, "From what I've observed, you're not the type of Gym Leader who prioritizes rigorous training or pushes yourself to be the strongest in Paldea. Other Gym Leaders only visited the ranch once, but you've been there multiple times. Surely you're not suddenly dedicating yourself to special training to become the strongest trainer, are you?"

Iono sighed, realizing there was no use denying it anymore. "Alright, fine… maybe just a little."

"If you like him, you should take the initiative. Be brave and go after what you want," Geeta encouraged. "Naoki's not the type to make the first move. If you wait for him, you might wait forever."

Iono hesitated. "I don't know… it feels like Naoki and I wouldn't be a good match."

"Why do you think that?" Geeta asked, raising an eyebrow.

Iono sighed, listing her concerns. "Naoki and I are so different. He loves quiet, peaceful places, while I thrive in bustling cities. Our personalities, our lifestyles—they're just… different."

Geeta nodded thoughtfully, listening intently. After a pause, she finally responded.

"Love is a two-way street," she said. "It's about meeting each other halfway. These differences you're so worried about… they're not what you need to focus on right now. First, you need to be honest with yourself and with him. If you don't express your feelings, you'll never know if there's a chance."

Iono looked at Geeta with a mix of admiration and confusion. There was something different about the chief today—something unusually thoughtful.

"Why are you suddenly so invested in this, Chief?" Iono asked, half-teasing.

Geeta smiled. "Everything I do is for the betterment of the Paldea League. Alright, that's enough for today. Let's talk more once you've sorted out your feelings!"

Iono: "…"

What was all this about for the Paldea League?

Could her love story somehow revitalize the Paldea League?

Iono was baffled.

Still, the Chief wasn't entirely wrong.

She needed to express her feelings first. Otherwise, if she overthought everything and got rejected, it would be all the more embarrassing later.

Thinking about this made Iono feel nervous.

"Forget it," she muttered to herself. "I'll just visit Naoki's ranch and see him first!"

...

After hanging up the phone, Geeta leaned back in her chair, her expression pensive.

Rika, who had been within earshot and overheard everything, crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "Chief, since when did you start moonlighting as a matchmaker?"

Geeta smiled knowingly and replied, "I'm not matchmaking. I just want to help them."

But Rika wasn't fooled.

Obviously, Geeta had her reasons—it was all about keeping Naoki in the Paldea region.

Geeta didn't mind being seen through by Rika. Instead, she allowed herself to indulge in her thoughts about the future.

"By the way, Rika," Geeta began.

"What is it?" Rika asked, still watching her with suspicion.

Geeta's voice was light as she mused, "If Naoki had a child, how old do you think they'd be when they reached Champion-level strength?"

Rika's expression turned incredulous, her disbelief plain on her face.

'Chief, first you want Naoki to stay in Paldea, and now you're planning for his future child?!'

"What's that look for?" Geeta asked, her tone playful. "I'm just saying—it's obvious that his child would be incredibly strong."

Rika thought about it for a moment, her mind going to Naoki's Pokémon team: Koraidon, Flutter Mane, Dragonite, Spectrier, Glastrier, Calyrex and Gogoat.

A trainer who could bond with and raise such powerful Pokémon couldn't possibly be weak.

If Naoki's child chose to follow the path of a trainer, Naoki would undoubtedly teach them everything he knew.

With so many Pokémon on the ranch, Naoki might even select a partner Pokémon for his child as soon as they were born, allowing the two to grow up together.

Such a bond would far surpass the connection most trainers form when receiving their first Pokémon at age ten.

By the time the child was three years old—old enough to walk and talk—Naoki might already start teaching them how to care for and train Pokémon.

If they trained consistently until the age of ten, they could likely challenge Gyms and even aim to become the youngest Champion in history.

Geeta could practically see the future unfolding—a brilliant new star rising in the Paldea League.

"It's an exciting thought, isn't it?" Geeta murmured, a smile tugging at her lips.

...

Late March, Year 200 of the Alliance Calendar

That morning, Naoki was steaming grass dumplings for his Gogoat when his Rotom Phone buzzed with an incoming call from Mayor Thomas.

"Mayor Thomas?" Naoki answered.

The mayor's jovial face appeared on the screen. "Good morning, Naoki! This year's Spring Horse Race is happening the day after tomorrow. Are you planning to bring your horse Pokémon to compete?"

Spring Horse Race?

Last year, Spectrier had entered and won the championship. Logically, it should be Glastrier's turn this year.

But Glastrier didn't seem as interested in the competition anymore.

Naoki thought back to the time when Spectrier had proudly kept its winner's trophy perched on its head. Worried that it might deform Spectrier's head, Calyrex had stepped in to explain that the trophy wasn't actually a crown.

Spectrier had promptly set the trophy down, and Glastrier, overhearing the explanation, seemed to lose all interest in the idea of becoming "Horse King."

Considering this, Naoki thought for a moment and replied, "I'm not sure. I'll ask my horse type pokemon and see if they're interested. If they're willing, I'll bring them along."

"Sounds good," Mayor Thomas said with a nod before ending the call.

...

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