Chapter 66
This world is home to numerous Pokémon Professors.
Professor Oak from Kanto, Professor Sycamore from Kalos, Professor Kukui from Alola...
Thanks to the diligent efforts of this group of scholars, phenomena like Mega Evolution, Z-Moves, and even Dynamaxing have been thoroughly researched and unveiled to the public.
While the ways of astonishing the world may be fewer for Luke, he had no aspirations of being a researcher.
Besides, he had already delved into it early and was eager to witness the spectacle of [Mega Evolution vs. Dynamax].
However, the present situation appeared to be a hindrance.
Due to the energy restrictions of Eternatus, Dynamaxing was still confined to the boundaries of the Galar Region...
But who could predict the future?
In years gone by, Professor Oak had claimed that there were only 151 species of Pokémon, while Professor Sycamore had asserted that Mega Evolution could only be achieved in the Kalos Region.
Hadn't these two been proven wrong, much to the chagrin of the entire nation?
Perhaps a day would come when an energy transmitter would be erected, enabling Dynamaxing to extend to other regions as well!
"It seems that the upcoming Masters League Trophy promises to be quite thrilling," Luke mused.
Despite not being a Trainer himself, the prospect of watching various experts competing against one another ignited a spark of excitement within Luke.
As he observed the discussions in the group, he noticed that the next Masters League Trophy was slated to take place in Magic City.
"When the time comes, I might just join in the excitement."
...
The night had already deepened.
A diligent Haunter wiped away his perspiration and surveyed the sparkling room, nodding in contentment.
"Jie jie~!"
Eevee, too, stifled a yawn and hopped off the running wheel. Rubbing her eyes, she curled into the cozy cat bed, ready to catch some rest.
As Luke settled onto his bed, he reached out to the cat litter by its side and gave Eevee a playful squeeze.
However, by the time Eevee had gathered her wits, Luke was already sleeping soundly, skillfully emitting snores.
"Vui~ !(#｀Д´)"
Haunter neatly folded the corners of Luke's quilt.
As he yawned, Haunter squinted, gradually floating up to the ceiling like a balloon before drifting into slumber.
In the dead of night, the eerie howl of Houndoom resonated from the construction site, casting an air of dread.
Both Haunter and Eevee snapped awake, exchanging glances before nodding in unison.
Into the darkness they ventured!
As recounted by Rattata at the scene of the incident: "Lah!"
The bell's resonance was so overpowering that there was no will left to flee!
While Meowth and Raticate had already honed their ability to distinguish Eevee's footsteps, the paralyzing effect of the Soothe Bell rendered them entirely complacent!
With her newfound powers, Eevee charged fiercely like a deity of war.
Her Adaptability Ability, which significantly heightened Eevee's sensitivity, served as a veritable self-activating radar for ambushes!
The night sky was dimly illuminated.
With Eevee proudly perched on Haunter's back, the duo left the construction site littered with vanquished foes and returned gradually to the sixth floor...
...
July 9th, a Thursday.
Yawning, Luke cast a glance at the two Pokémon still immersed in slumber, his lips curling into a smile.
"Asleep... I'm not too shabby!"
Making his way to the kitchen, he set about preparing breakfast for the duo.
As the sizzle of the frying pan filled the air, Luke's eyes occasionally darted to the proficiency bar displayed in his retinal display.
[Cooking Level 2 (67/100)]
The rate of progression was not to be underestimated. With an incremental increase daily, it was a much more convenient route compared to self-guided cooking practice.
On the menu: a refreshing Berry salad, delectably buttery pan-fried fish, and perfectly cooked hot spring eggs.
Given that Eevee wasn't particularly fond of milk, Luke opted to pour a glass of orange juice for her.
With a trace of sleepiness lingering in their eyes, the two companions approached the dining table, their yawns signaling their readiness to indulge.
Eevee & Haunter: (￣～￣) Chew!
"Don't just use your tongue, Haunter!"
"Jie jie~? (*⊙~⊙)"
"Forget it... if you're happy, then go ahead."
Early in the morning, Luke received a call from his father.
News of Luke's victory in the Piplup Cup had even reached Luther's ears, prompting him to place a call and inquire about the event.
"Son, if you wish to become a Trainer, I'm your first supporter!"
"Dad, that really isn't necessary..."
"How can you say that? Nobody knows you better than your own father. I've already dealt with your mother's side of things. Rest assured!"
After ending the call, Luke silently lifted the milk and poured half of it onto the floor.
Dad, I won't reimburse you of your potted plants. Abandon that thought!
Just as he hung up, his phone rang once more.
Eyeing the caller ID, Luke pondered for a moment before answering, "Coach Zhai?"
"Luke, first and foremost, congratulations on your championship victory."
Zhai Wenyao's voice cut in with a warm smile.
"There are just three things. Since you don't have plans to join the school team, I won't insist... I have another proposal for you."
"What is it?"
"I'd like to ask you to become a teaching assistant for the school team."
The Pokémon school team at Magic City University has consistently ranked highly in the national league.
For many Battle Department students, being selected for the school team and earning awards is a distant dream.
Typically, assistant positions on the school team are offered to juniors.
Hence, inviting Luke, who is about to become a sophomore, is quite an unusual move.
"Let's discuss the compensation first... You'll receive a monthly allowance of 10,000 yuan."
"Although it's a basic amount, if the team maintains a good ranking in the league, the allowance will increase."
"Additionally, there's the school team bonus for the upcoming semester... I believe it's 30,000 yuan. Teaching assistants are also eligible to apply for this bonus."
With a slight smile, Zhai Wenyao continued, "Given your background and expertise, as long as you're willing to accept the offer, the bonuses won't be an issue at all."
Zhai Wenyao had closely followed the Piplup Cup finals.
As a coach, he could easily discern Luke's exceptional command abilities.
Even though Luke's Pokémon might not be on par with those of juniors, his real-time decision-making and strategic command skills marked him as an ideal assistant coach.
"I've heard that they still refer to you as 'Teacher Luke,' right?" Zhai Wenyao asked with a grin.
"Have you given it any thought about the teaching assistant role?"
Luke scratched his head. "Not really, to be honest."
"Really?"
"Regarding the compensation... is that all?"
Zhai Wenyao cleared his throat. "Of course not...! When the new semester begins, a fresh batch of Pokémon will arrive from the school's Breeding House. I'll ensure a spot is reserved for you."
Despite his cheeky demeanor, Luke couldn't help but feel touched.
The Pokémon bred at the Magic City University Breeding House would undoubtedly command a hefty price on the market.
Zhai Wenyao's sincerity in offering this opportunity was beyond doubt.
"I don't need more Pokémon."
Luke smiled. "Just send the money directly."
Zhai Wenyao was momentarily taken aback.
He wasn't interested in the Pokémon from the Magic City University Breeding House...?
Zhai Wenyao's allocation of spots was incredibly limited, even as the school team coach!
Even if he were willing to pay outright, those exceptionally skilled Pokémon were essentially priceless!
Could it be...
Was he considering my well-being?
With this thought in mind, Zhai Wenyao's heart warmed, and he spoke with a smile, "You don't need to worry about any payment. Let's consider the Pokémon as my treat!"
Initially hesitant, Zhai Wenyao felt that this kid's attitude suited him well, and making friends with a Pokémon wouldn't hurt either!
"There's really no need!"
Luke found himself unsure whether to laugh or cry.
Although he couldn't manage two Pokémon, what about a third?
Zhai Wenyao chuckled heartily. "Don't worry. Wait until the summer break."
"I'm determined to find you one of the most exceptional Pokémon with outstanding aptitude!"