Pokemon: A New Path

Chapter 225: Offer



Despite taking the hit from his Gogoat, Kingambit-known for his imposing stature and sharp combat instincts-didn't go down easily. He staggered but stood tall, fixing his piercing gaze on the goat Pokémon.

With a deliberate thud, Kingambit knelt on the grassy battlefield, his steel blade shimmering in the light.

Naoki blinked in surprise. His Gogoat tilted its head, wearing a goofy, confused expression. 'What's happening? Is Kingambit... surrendering?'

'No!' Naoki's heart raced. 'This isn't a surrender-it's a trap!'

'That's Kingambit's signature strategy-Kowtow Cleave!' Naoki thought, panic setting in. Kingambit was luring Gogoat into a false sense of security, only to strike the moment it let down its guard.

But Naoki knew he couldn't interfere-this was Gogoat's battle.

"Baa?" Gogoat took a step forward, curious and unsuspecting. It sniffed the air, tilting its head as if trying to understand Kingambit's strange behavior.

Suddenly, the air shifted. The gleam of malice in Kingambit's blade intensified. With lightning speed, the large Pokémon sprang into action, his steel blade slicing downward in a calculated arc.

SLASH!

The sound of the blow reverberated through the field. Gogoat let out a cry of pain: "Baa-aa!" Naoki clenched his fists as Gogoat stumbled back, wounded but determined. Kingambit rose to his full height, his body glowing faintly as he prepared to launch a finishing blow, hoping to end the fight before the grassy terrain could heal Gogoat.

"Enough! Stop!" A commanding voice rang out.

It was Geeta.

Kingambit froze instantly, sheathing his blade with a metallic click. He stepped back and stood by Geeta's side, his expression unreadable.

The pulse of the grassy terrain surged again, wrapping Gogoat in warm energy, restoring its strength. Gogoat shook off the pain and stomped a hoof, glaring fiercely at Kingambit.

"Meh!" it snorted, full of defiance.

Naoki's other two Gogoat bounded forward, forming a protective line beside their friend, glaring at Kingambit with their best attempt at intimidating stares-though their expressions looked more cute than threatening.

Geeta chuckled. "These Gogoat are fearless," she said, a hint of amusement in her voice. "Sorry about Kingambit's tactics-he's... a bit of a trickster."

Naoki sighed, stepping up to his Gogoat. "It's okay," he reassured them, patting each of their heads. "Kingambit wasn't being mean-it's just how he battles. You hadn't seen that move before, but now you know what to do next time, right?"

The lead Gogoat's eyes gleamed with understanding. It gave a determined nod.

"Baa!"

Naoki smiled. "Good kids. That's enough for today. How about some green grass dumplings?"

At the mention of their favorite treat, the Gogoat perked up. Without a second thought, they bolted toward the ranch, leaving Kingambit far behind, their minds entirely focused on snacks.

Naoki shook his head in amusement and turned to Geeta.

"They're strong," Geeta observed thoughtfully, "but they don't seem to have much battle experience."

Naoki nodded. "Yeah, they've spent most of their time at the ranch. They've fought a few battles, but honestly, they care more about grazing than fighting."

Geeta smiled. "That makes sense."

Naoki glanced toward the other Pokémon lounging nearby. "If we're talking serious battles, my Dragonite and Pawmot are more up to the task."

Geeta nodded, watching the playful Gogoat disappear into the distance. "Still, that one seems to have a natural talent for battle moves."

As a champion with rich battle experience, Geeta observed the way Naoki's Gogoat used every Grass-type move-it felt unique, like each move had been enhanced beyond its normal limits.

The Grassy Terrain it summoned not only covered a wider area but also seemed to restore far more health than a typical one. And when it used Vine Whip, the vines were thick and intimidating-far stronger than the usual version.

But the final move really stood out.

The mental image of Gogoat holding a large blade of grass in its mouth flashed through Geeta's mind, causing her to ask in surprise, "What move was that?"

"Leaf Blade," Naoki answered casually.

Geeta blinked in disbelief. "Leaf Blade?"

Naoki noticed her reaction and offered a small grin. "It's still Leaf Blade in essence-just a different way of using it."

"A different method?" Geeta murmured thoughtfully, processing the idea. After a moment, her expression softened with understanding. "Ah, I see."

Satisfied, she returned to her usual calm demeanor, a glimmer of admiration in her gaze. "Your Gogoat's strength is truly impressive. Its moves are both powerful and elegant. It seems that the Paldea region has gained a remarkable new trainer."

She smiled warmly. "Every Pokémon Trainer is a treasure to the Paldea region. Naoki, welcome back to Paldea."

Naoki: "..."

For a moment, he was at a loss for words.

But then he chuckled inwardly. 'If she says it's true, who am I to argue?'

"So," Naoki asked, "do you want to continue the challenge?"

Geeta shook her head with a gentle smile. "No, I think we'll stop here. It wouldn't be fair to your Gogoat. But if it gains more battle experience one day, I'd love to face it again."

Naoki nodded. "That sounds good."

Geeta gave a satisfied nod. "Then let's call it a day!"

Before leaving, she handed Naoki her contact information. "And remember, the Paldea region will grant you one wish within reason-consider it a reward for heroic trainers."

She paused, her eyes twinkling. "Also, if you're ever interested in working with the Paldea League, just reach out. I'd be happy to help you find a good position."

It was clear she hadn't given up on recruiting Naoki.

As Geeta walked away, Naoki glanced down at the number she had given him, muttering to himself, "Really..."

That evening, Naoki was at home, happily making grass dumplings and grass cakes when his videophone rang. He answered the call, and Dr. Sada's friendly face appeared on the screen. "Good evening, Naoki!" Dr. Sada greeted him with a warm smile.

"Good evening, Doctor," Naoki replied. "Koraidon has been doing well recently."

Hearing this, Dr. Sada looked pleasantly surprised, and his smile grew even brighter. "I'm so glad to hear that Koraidon is settling in well with you. But that's not the reason I'm calling."

Naoki tilted his head in confusion. "Oh? What's going on?"

"Well," Dr. Sada began, "Geeta reached out to us earlier today. She had a lot of good things to

say about you."

Naoki raised an eyebrow. "Really?"

"Yes! She told us about your strength as a trainer." Dr. Sada smiled knowingly. "It sounds like you've become quite the trainer, Naoki."

Naoki scratched the back of his head, feeling a bit embarrassed by the praise.

Dr. Sada continued, "Actually, I wanted to offer you a chance to visit Area Zero."

"Area Zero?" Naoki echoed, startled.

"Yes," Dr. Sada confirmed. "We need to conduct a physical examination on Koraidon, and you

could use this as an opportunity to explore the area. Normally, you'd need approval from the Paldea League to enter, but given your skills-and the fact that you helped prevent that fire- now might be the perfect time to apply."

She paused briefly before adding, "Just be aware, Area Zero is massive. It takes time to navigate, so you'll need to prepare well in advance."Nôv(el)B\\jnn

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