Chapter 111

August 6th.

In the Hoenn Region, within the walls of Devon Corporation, the 'ORAS' analyst adjusted his glasses thoughtfully, remarking:

"The rate of praise and the sales trend... This doesn't quite resemble the profile of an independent game starting from scratch."

At that moment, everyone in the room abruptly stood up, surprising the analyst who quickly rose to his feet as well.

In unison, they greeted, "Good day, Vice President!"

The man before them possessed light blue hair, wore a smart suit, and exuded an approachable charm with a spring-like smile.

"I just happened to be passing by... Carry on with your work, everyone."

Admiration and yearning were evident in the eyes of the staff as they regarded Steven Stone.

Steven Stone, heir to the Devon Corporation, inheritor of a fortune worth hundreds of millions, and the Champion of the Hoenn Alliance...

In this room, various distinguished backgrounds converged, yet their camaraderie was surprisingly genuine.

"If it's alright with the Vice President... maybe he'll consider my proposal!"

The analyst was momentarily taken aback before his eyes shone with fervor as he presented a plan to Steven.

"Dear Vice President," the analyst began hesitantly, "I have a proposal to submit."

Steven gave a slight nod and apologized with a gentle smile, "I'm not particularly skilled in this area."

"Why, though? This game holds immense potential. If you secure the rights for overseas distribution..."

As the analyst explained, he opened the proposal document: "The cost would be no more than seven figures, but the returns could be four or five times that amount!"

"Very well, I'll pass it along to the President on your behalf," Steven said with a slight smile. "I can't guarantee its approval, but thank you for the proposal."

Overwhelmed with excitement, the analyst bent ninety degrees in gratitude. "Thank you, Vice President!"

While Steven may not be deeply interested in business, he possesses a keen understanding of data.

Casting his eyes, colored like minerals, over the proposal, Steven furrowed his brow slightly.

"Luke... I recall someone mentioning this name to me..."

Steven, who trusted his instincts, rubbed his forehead in contemplation and murmured, "Ah... I just can't remember."

"Well, let's ensure it reaches the right hands."

...

Damien's voice brimmed with excitement as he shouted, "Brother Luke, it's time to post!"

Teacher Luke wasn't primarily motivated by money; his primary concern was to provide a better living environment for his Pokémon.

Upon hearing Damien's words, Luke's eyes lit up, and he promptly hailed a taxi to the city center.

This time, Luke showed more wisdom by bringing all three of his little companions along with him.

For financially struggling families, too much traveling could prove troublesome.

Eevee rested comfortably on Luke's shoulder, attracting numerous glances from passersby.

Of course, Luke's striking appearance also played a part in drawing attention.

Though he appeared somewhat disheveled, Teacher Luke retained his cheerful demeanor.

Upon arriving at the coffee shop, Damien was seated in a secluded corner, waving enthusiastically at Luke.

Luke scanned the surroundings to ensure no one was eavesdropping and then settled into a chair, where Damien eagerly patted the table to get his attention.

In less than a week, we've already circulated 20,000 copies! This is really catching fire!" exclaimed someone.

"Pretty good," Luke responded calmly.

Considering the price per copy, even with 20,000 copies sold, after accounting for shares and taxes, the profit would not exceed 200,000. However, a monthly net profit of 1 million would be enough to sustain Luke's endeavors.

Damien seemed surprised. Wasn't Brother Luke satisfied with this substantial income? Or did he have even grander aspirations?

Damien collected himself and spoke with a hint of embarrassment, "Well, I suppose it's because I have a smaller perspective. It's not a time to get complacent..."

Luke looked intrigued. Did Damien just suggest something significant?

Eevee, on the coffee table, curled up like a fluffy pudding. Luke affectionately rubbed its head, his eyes narrowing with contentment. "Go on."

With a sly grin, Damien glanced around cautiously and extended a claw toward his Slowpoke. "Slow?" Slowpoke tilted its head in curiosity.

Damien cleared his throat. "Here's the thing... Over the past couple of days, several game companies have shown interest in buying the rights to 'Plants vs. Zombies' and have made some lucrative offers, waiting for your decision."

"Buyout?" Luke furrowed his brow. "Sharing is one thing, but a buyout would mean completely severing ties with the game. Only two companies have suggested a share."

"Piplup Company offered to purchase our studio outright for 5 million, plus a 5% performance bonus," Damien explained. "Devon Corporation, on the other hand, is interested in the overseas distribution rights and mobile game copyright. Their offer is 2 million plus 20% of the shares."

Luke was momentarily taken aback. Piplup Company sure knew how to make a grand entrance.

"I believe cash is the safer option," Damien said in a hushed tone.

"Then perhaps we should consider Piplup Company?" Luke pondered for a moment.

Mobile gaming was the future gold mine. With a quality mobile game, as long as you didn't mess things up, it had the potential to generate a continuous stream of revenue. Plus, Luke currently lacked the capacity to tap into overseas markets. Handing the rights to Devon Corporation seemed like the best compromise.

"Let's accept Devon Corporation's offer," Luke decided after a brief pause. "When can we sign the contract?"

"Devon Corporation has a subsidiary in Magic City, so it can likely be finalized tomorrow."

Luke nodded in satisfaction. "Our journey from rags to riches is just beginning!"

-----------------

Friday, August 7th.

Luke donned a casual suit, admiring his reflection in the mirror. He exuded a natural charm that was hard to ignore.

"Looking rather handsome," he remarked.

Damien, in his own suit, appeared a bit more portly, resembling a real estate agent.

"What if I get nervous?" Damien fretted, wiping away a bead of sweat.

"We're the main characters here," Luke assured him with a smile. "Let's go, maybe we can grab lunch."

Damien raised an eyebrow, puzzled by Luke's relaxed demeanor.

As a multinational corporation, Devon Corporation was involved in various industries, including energy, gaming, and Pokémon items. The lobby's floor emitted a soft glow, while luxurious sofas and carefully placed greenery lent an air of opulence.

Businesspeople in sharp attire bustled about, making Damien feel somewhat out of place.

The receptionist led Luke and Damien into the lounge area, where an accountant and a manager warmly greeted them, extending their hands for handshakes.

"Mr. Luke, we've heard so much about you," the manager said with a hint of reverence.

"Really? You know me?" Luke was genuinely surprised.

"Our Vice President mentioned you. Mr. Luke is a formidable Trainer, and we were instructed to provide you with the best service," the manager replied with a smile. "I never expected Mr. Luke to be so young. Truly, a remarkable individual!"

Damien elbowed Luke, whispering excitedly, "Brother Luke, they even know you here!"

Damien had been awestruck by Luke's previous victory in the Grand Duke Division. Little did he know that Luke had even more impressive connections.

It suddenly dawned on Damien.

No wonder Brother Luke's plans always exceeded expectations.

Luke slightly startled:

"What's your vice president's name?"

The manager's tone suddenly brought a hint of respect.

"Champion of Hoenn Region, Steven Stone!"