Chapter 228

November 5th, Thursday.

Three days after the release of the Pokémon Trading Card, its popularity has extended to the surrounding regions of Magic City.

The campus commissary, initially skeptical about stocking this seemingly ordinary new board game, quickly found themselves delighted as it became a top-selling item.

Piracy attempts closely trailed behind. The anti-counterfeiting mark on the card's surface acted as a deterrent, and the high cost associated with piracy, thanks to policy support, made it an unattractive option. Pokémon Trading Card followed a strategy of small profits but quick turnover.

The Pokémon brand infiltrated the campus market, achieving a level of popularity comparable to yo-yos. However, due to the slightly complex game rules, many preferred a more straightforward approach—literal "punch-ins," where the goal was to flip the opponent's card first.

"Everyone has worked hard during this time," Oleana announced in the studio, leading to cheers as she declared a holiday. Follow-up projects, including the "Plants vs. Zombies" Christmas DLC and the "Pokémon Trading Card" Johto expansion pack, were on the horizon but not without meticulous planning.

In the deserted office, Oleana, though announcing a break, continued her work. Answering a call, she identified herself as Poké Company.

"Hello, I am the Chief of Devon Corporation in Magic City—In-Charge, reporting to your company about the overseas issuance..."

Overseas, the Pokémon Trading Card gained even more popularity. Assisted by Devon Corporation, several renowned Trainer schools triggered a wave of card-playing enthusiasm.

Despite rejecting the acquisition proposal, "Poké Company" and its founder, Luke, became highly valued business partners for Devon Corporation.

"In just six months, so many phenomenal works have been released," the Chief-In-Charge marveled. "It's truly a rarely seen commercial genius."

"Indeed," Oleana nodded, but another thought lingered in her mind. Teacher Luke, whose goal is to become Champion, is just his sideline. For instance, Diantha, the actress, and Wallace, hosting a grand event, make money for the sole purpose of better breeding Pokémon. To achieve his dream, Luke has to work harder.

...

A cold wind swept across Teacher Luke's back. Glancing at the "Dazzling Gleam" in his hand, he couldn't help but shiver.

The Pokémon Trading Card is a sensation, and Teacher Luke is aware of it. However, due to the route of small profits but quick turnover and the short time on the shelves, there is currently no deposit in his private account. Training "Dazzling Gleam" requires spending real money.

Sitting back on the sofa, Teacher Luke was in a delicate mood when the phone suddenly vibrated.

"Have you received something?" Cynthia asked.

"I received..."

"I thought about it; this is just right for you."

Cynthia said, "I remember, Sylveon's Ability is Pixilate."

"Although Dazzling Gleam's power is not as good as Return, it can enhance Sylveon's Pixilate."

"As for Togepi," Cynthia said with a slight smile, "It is easy to learn when combined with Flash."

Luke was slightly startled.

Sylveon in Teacher Luke's family is a physical attacker precisely because of the Ability of "Pixilate." This special ability covers Sylveon's snow-white fur with a unique aura, turning the soft pink ribbon sharp in an instant.

From a certain perspective, "Pixilate" is similar to "Armament Haki." 

"Dazzling Gleam" can improve this ability and enhance the remote means of the little fellow. Thinking about the increased self-protection ability, Teacher Luke feels a bit excited.

"So... what is the cost?" Luke asked.

"Bright Powder can improve the training efficiency of Dazzling Gleam, and Fairy Gem..."

Cynthia thought for a moment and said, "One Pokémon item is about 1 million. It's not very expensive."

Having been around big shots for a long time, Teacher Luke has gradually understood the pricing of such high-profile individuals. They use Peak Level training methods, so naturally, they use peak resources in terms of materials.

Luke's complexion changed.

After realizing it, he groaned and nodded, "It's really not expensive."

Since paying off the debt, the whole person has swelled! A mere two million... at worst, let's ask Steven-san for an installment loan!

"By the way, can that card connect online?" Cynthia asked.

"There is no online version yet. I will develop it later."

"Really," Cynthia said with a little regret.

"Why don't you try to... come and fight again?"

Cynthia lifts her head, full of energy, and says, "I'll come!"

...

Training 'Dazzling Gleam' is remarkably straightforward.

Throw 'Dazzling Gleam' to Gengar, allowing it to comprehend the move on its own and subsequently teach it to other Pokémon. Given that Gastly, its evolutionary precursor, originated from optical pollution, it possesses a natural affinity for this type of move. Moreover, Gengar can already learn 'Dazzling Gleam,' and its progress is advancing rapidly.

After the move was broadcast throughout the world, Luke went to the Tauros Club for a training session. There, he observed Gengar instructing Togepi and Sylveon in the ways of 'Dazzling Gleam.'

"Jie jie~~!!!"

Gengar's growl initiated a burst of dazzling lights from its eyes. The 'Dazzling Gleam,' akin to a 'laser eye,' swept across the Ring Target, leaving a series of scorching marks.

Xena, witnessing this display, couldn't help but swallow. These Ring Targets, recently equipped and designed to withstand professional-level power, were being effortlessly handled by Teacher Luke's newly bred Gengar within six months. Achieving this Peak Level breed level showcased expertise beyond the reach of a mere rookie.

Meanwhile, Sylveon's 'Dazzling Gleam' enhanced the perception of 'Pixilate.' The radiant bow not only had the power to blind opponents but also provided ample time for Sylveon to take action.

As for Togepi, the adorable creature joyfully clapped its tiny hands, exuding an angelic aura. Although its power was modest, considering Togepi had just been born, Luke couldn't help but marvel at its innate talent.

"Sure enough, it's a 6 IV Togepi, just like the one Gold has..."

Luke shifted his gaze to Sylveon. After 'Dazzling Gleam,' its snow-white fur was adorned with a subtle halo, truly a sight to behold. This explained why 'Dazzling Gleam' was frequently employed in tourism coordination.

Luke smiled, his eyes then landing on Gengar. However, his smile froze when he saw Gengar bearing its teeth, body radiating pink light, and striking a pose in front of him.

"Jie jie~ (ω･*)ﾉ!"

The eerie, blinking eyes gave Gengar a supernatural appearance. If equipped with a bow and a magic wand, Gengar could easily cosplay as a magical girl.

"Sylveon and Togepi, I can still understand..."

Luke paused for a moment, then exclaimed, "Magic girl Gengar, what the heck is that!"

"Jie jie~?"

"Your eyeballs are popping out, hey, is this really okay!"

...

As the sun set, Luke glanced at the extra 'Dazzling Gleam' move in the list and sighed.

Even though Togepi hadn't learned it yet, given its innate talent and Gengar's guidance, it was only a matter of time.

Luke gazed at the sky and pondered. The magical girl Gengar, along with Sylveon and Togepi, could potentially form an idol group.

Putting aside these fanciful thoughts, Luke looked at Gengar beside him, his expression complex.

"Thanks for your hard work, Gengar!"

"Jie jie~! (*≧▽≦ )"

For Gengar, every training session was a source of joy. Beyond enjoying Peak Level Pokéblock, there was the fulfillment of the master's dream—making everyone stronger.

No need for personal thanks, this little creature was already living up to its role!