LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 33: Chapter 33: Where Did That Come From?
"So, Maki, you're saying you really learned how to make Pokéblocks all on your own? Just self-taught?" Lance asked, skepticism written all over his face.
It wasn't that he didn't believe Maki—it was just that the idea seemed almost too far-fetched.
"Honestly, making Pokéblocks isn't as hard as you think," Maki replied with a casual shrug. "If you're interested, I can teach you. I mean, assuming you don't mind my lack of formal training."
Maki's primary goal had never been to become a breeder. He only learned the craft to take better care of his Pokémon.
Lance shook his head vehemently. "No way. I have zero talent for that kind of thing. Besides, I worked hard to escape school—learning anything new is definitely not my thing."
Choosing not to press the topic, Lance led the way as they walked toward the Pokémon Center. Along the way, they passed several privately run battle arenas but mutually decided on the Pokémon Center's facilities.
After all, the Pokémon Center was a League-owned venue, which meant the equipment was well-maintained and reliable. Plus, if any accidents occurred during the battle, their Pokémon could be treated immediately by Nurse Joy.
Once they arrived, Lance rented a battle arena, while Maki trailed behind, looking increasingly apprehensive.
Even if Lance only uses his Dratini, I'm still going to get crushed, Maki thought.
As a member of the esteemed Dragon Clan, Lance's Dratini was undoubtedly carefully selected. Even without extensive training, its natural strength would far surpass most Pokémon.
Meanwhile, my team...
"Char?"
Maki's Charmander tilted its head curiously at him, seemingly sensing his unease. It had no idea what kind of opponent it was about to face.
Oh well, Maki thought with a sigh. Time to let Charmander face a real challenge for once. Beating up weaker opponents isn't doing us any favors anyway.
"Come on out, Charizard!" Lance called, tossing a Pokéball.
A flash of red light revealed a large, powerful Charizard. Its muscular limbs, blazing tail flame, and confident stance left no doubt about its excellent care and training.
Charmander's final evolution, Charizard, still retained some of its earlier forms' features but had become an imposing Western dragon-like figure.
Maki, however, immediately frowned. "Are you kidding me?"
Lance noticed Maki's expression and quickly clarified, "I'm not using Charizard for the battle. I just wanted to let it stretch its wings a bit."
Before Maki could protest further, Lance retrieved another Pokéball and pressed the button.
"This is the real star of the show."
"Dratini!"
The Pokémon that emerged was a serpentine Dratini, its sleek blue body adorned with white fins on either side of its head. The small, round silver spot on its forehead was its most dragon-like feature—aside from its determined purple eyes.
Despite its serpent-like appearance, Dratini was a true Dragon-Type Pokémon. Its body would grow significantly longer as it matured, eventually evolving into Dragonair and then Dragonite.
"I only caught this Dratini recently," Lance said, crouching down to stroke its head. The Pokémon affectionately nuzzled his hand, its trust in him evident.
Maki inspected the Dratini and noted its youthful appearance. Judging by its size, it had only recently been born and was just entering its growth phase.
Why didn't you say so earlier? You almost gave me a heart attack!
If Lance was really using a newly caught Dratini, Maki figured Charmander might actually stand a chance.
He knelt beside Charmander and whispered, "See that long snake over there? Beat it, and I'll treat you to a feast tonight!"
Charmander's eyes gleamed with determination. It puffed out its chest, patting its stomach as if to say, Leave it to me!
However, just as Maki finished speaking, one of the Pokéballs on his belt jostled slightly, as if its occupant had taken offense to the "long snake" comment.
If the venue weren't so public, Dragonite would've burst out of its ball to glare at Maki. What do you mean by 'long snake'? Got a problem with me, huh?
"Sorry, sorry!" Maki muttered, pressing the Pokéball gently to calm his Dragonite. He'd completely forgotten how sensitive the pseudo-legendary could be to such remarks.
On the other side of the field, Lance's Dratini was no less spirited. Despite its youthful appearance, its sharp eyes locked onto Charmander with a competitive spark.
Makes sense, Maki thought. Like trainer, like Pokémon. These two are born fighters.
"One-on-one. No move restrictions. Sound good?" Lance called out as he stepped back to give his Dratini space.
"Sounds fine," Maki replied, stepping back as well.
"Since I'm the one who challenged you, you can take the first move," Lance offered, his confidence unwavering.
"Don't mind if I do," Maki said, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Charmander, use Dragon Dance!"
Charmander moved gracefully, its body glowing faintly as its attack and speed increased.
Lance stood frozen in shock. "Dragon Dance?! Where did that come from?"
He had assumed Maki's Charmander was just a typical starter Pokémon from the League. Even with good training, its move pool shouldn't include something as advanced as Dragon Dance.
For the first time in a long while, Lance regretted his overconfidence.
Maki, on the other hand, smirked. Lance, you're about to learn not to underestimate me.
Surprises? Oh, I've got plenty of those.
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