Chapter 199: Chapter 200
On the morning of Saturday, October 5th, as the sun painted the courtyard with its gentle warmth, Gengar commenced his regular morning exercises punctually.
"Gengar, time for your workout!" Sporting a whistle around his neck, Gengar confidently led a pack of his junior Pokémon companions, marching purposefully around Gold's residence with nimble and sturdy strides.
Gold, leaning on the railing, let out a yawning stretch and remarked, "Luke, have you ever considered that Gengar seems to be training more diligently than you?"
"It's just an illusion," Silver responded casually.
Even though Teacher Luke might appear to be less actively involved in his own training, allowing his Pokémon to independently complete their training regimen was, in fact, quite an advanced approach.
"Over time, Pokémon and their Trainers will become increasingly alike," Silver added, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Just like your unique Pokémon."
"Gengar's dedication simply reflects..." Silver crossed his arms and let out a sigh. "But it's not something you'd understand."
"Actually, I think I understand," Gold nodded thoughtfully.
Luke looked bewildered. Does he understand now? It's not what I want, Gengar doesn't have to work so hard.
As he observed Gengar, who was energetic and lively despite being up all night, Luke massaged his temples and mumbled, "Indeed, ghosts don't just fade away."
His flight back to Magic City was scheduled for noon, and he spent some time at Gold's house before bidding him farewell.
"Luke, I promise to challenge you the next time we meet!" Gold gritted his teeth.
Luke nodded and replied, "We'll definitely have a chance. I'll look for you in a couple of days to record some material."
"Hah, I'm waiting for that!" Gold unconsciously grinned and offered a thumbs-up.
Meanwhile, Silver had decided to stay in the city to continue training his Pokémon, demonstrating his commitment to defeating Giovanni. Little did Silver know that his father was also pondering ways to mend their relationship.
In the end, the bond between a loving father and a devoted son was what truly mattered.
Luke contemplated the situation: Some things don't need to be fought over. Love and justice are the calling of a "cute and charming villain."
Naturally, the establishment of the new organization wouldn't happen overnight and was subject to potential rebellion from Giovanni. Nonetheless, Luke trusted that his boss would make the right decision.
"Let's go, Gengar!" Luke called out.
"Gengar!" Gengar responded by showing his teeth and bouncing over. He made a perfect leap, disappearing into Luke's shadow.
The ambient temperature dropped by 5°C, causing Teacher Luke to shiver involuntarily.
"Well, no need for air conditioning in the summer, I guess!"
Heading towards the airport in Goldenrod City, Luke reflected on the outcomes of his journey. His primary goal was to enable Haunter to evolve, a mission he had successfully achieved. However, Gengar's future training represented a substantial financial commitment.
Moreover, he also needed to acquire the "Psychic" move secrets from Sabrina to teach Gengar how to fly with its mind.
"This is an investment worth making," Luke resolved.
In addition to Gengar's evolution, the most significant effect of the "King's Rock" presented by Gold was its ability to make the opponent flinch. However, considering Mr. Luke's 'black face' characteristic, the probability of success was minimal.
"Forget it, at least it looks good," Luke commented, holding the sharp-edged metal crown.
On the Interpol front, the middle-aged gentleman codenamed 'Looker' extended an invitation to Mr. Luke. Although Luke didn't officially accept any position, his duties as a police academy supervisor made him feel touched. Coupled with creative incentives and the Rocket organization's cadre bonus, Luke mused, "So, posting videos is practically three easy money?"
With a chin-scratch, an idea sparked in Luke's eyes. "You're really genius Teacher Luke!"
After landing at the airport, Luke returned to his long-neglected neighborhood. The Squirtle placed its hand on the doorknob, sensing the atmosphere within the house before cautiously nodding.
It seems... there are no ambushes in the house.
Watching Squirtle's careful door-opening maneuver, Luke's feelings were mixed. He had a persistent sense that trouble was brewing here, and it seemed he'd always have to be on guard against potential attacks.
Growlithe unleashed a long howl and dashed around the house. Sylveon, with its graceful steps, its pink ribbon swaying in the wind, took only a couple of steps before it toppled sideways onto the carpet, producing a 'big' sound. This sound effect had been humorously added by Luke.
"You come back and fall asleep immediately, it's no wonder you're getting plumper!" Luke remarked with a chuckle.
"Vui!" Sylveon blinked its large blue eyes and poked the kitchen with its ribbon.
Luke was taken aback for a moment before he smiled and said, "Alright, I'll start cooking now!"
Sylveon's eyes transformed into crescent moons as it smiled sweetly, responding with a cheerful, "Vui!"
When dinnertime, long overdue, finally arrived, Teacher Luke took off his apron while the little Pokémon indulged in its meal. Luke opened the chat group and received the "Psychic" move secrets from Sabrina.
Sabrina: "I've provided you with the specific list. As per your request, the price is only 5 million, which is still quite reasonable."
Luke's throat made a 'gulping' sound. Was our interpretation of 'cheap' different? However, when he opened the list and saw the original version that cost almost tens of millions, he wisely kept quiet.
"Thank you, Sabrina!"
"No problem," Sabrina replied, brushing her short black hair behind her ears, puzzled by her vested interest in Luke's purchase. Perhaps, she considered that someone worthy of Red and Giovanni's attention might have something in common with those two. They all shared a pure desire to become stronger.
On the other side, Luke printed out and carefully reviewed the "Psychic" move secrets. He nodded slowly, "I understand."
Explaining complex concepts in a simple manner is what a well-constructed move guide should do. If Teacher Luke could grasp its content, it would be even easier for Gengar. Upon handing over the "Psychic" move secrets to Gengar, the Pokémon expressed its gratitude with vigorous nods.
Looking at Gengar's resolute expression, Luke's feelings were mixed. "Well, with the income from this month's gaming, I can still afford it." As for the three games from The Pokémon Studio, they were indeed exceptional, but they had only been released recently, so the income wasn't very high. After deducting the cost of "Psychic," there was still no issue in funding new projects until next month.
"But I still need to make a video," Luke murmured. Although the earnings from streaming weren't substantial, a single video could provide a reasonable income.
The aroma of food wafted through the air, enticing Luke. He opened the team editor and started preparing the lineup for tomorrow's live broadcast. "The high-speed team... indeed, wind speed is the key..."
Ten hours earlier, in New Bark Town, Luke's bus had just departed. Gold rested his arm on his pillow, planning to return home to catch up on sleep. A researcher from the town's research institute, Professor Elm, rushed out. "Gold," he gasped, "Has Luke already left?"
Gold scratched his head and replied, "Teacher Luke just left. What's going on?"
In Professor Elm's hands, he held a Pokémon egg with a pale white background and red and blue squares. This was the same egg he intended to entrust to Mr. Luke to be placed in the research institute's backyard.
Last night, he had called Professor Rowan to inquire about Luke's reputation and received a glowing review from the professor himself. This further solidified Professor Elm's decision to entrust the Pokémon egg to Luke.
However, it seemed he was a step too late. Professor Elm scratched his head and said, "Gold, do you know Mr. Luke's address?"
Gold checked his phone and said, "I can ask him in the group."
Professor Elm nodded, considering entrusting Gold with the fairy egg to deliver to Luke. But after some thought, he decided it was best not to let the egg pass through Gold's hands. "Is Crystal in the group?" Professor Elm inquired.
"Yes," Gold confirmed.
Professor Elm breathed a sigh of relief and thought to himself that he would ask Crystal to bring the Pokémon egg to Luke.
Weekly Power Status
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