Lian had limited knowledge of the Kana Mountains and didn't venture too far to avoid getting lost, as that would be disastrous.
He stayed within nearby areas but wasn't foolish enough to exclusively target Rock or Ground-type Pokemon. A single hit from their attacks could potentially inflict severe injuries. To play it safe, he focused on picking softer targets like Geodudes, akin to squashing ripe fruits.
Whenever he encountered Pokemon weak against Fire-type moves or lacking resistance to them, Lian actively engaged in battles. However, if he couldn't swiftly defeat them, he wouldn't waste time, indicating they were likely high-level opponents. Continuing such fights risked injury, making it counterproductive.
Now, Lian no longer cared much about his daily combat ratings. Battles in this area typically yielded at most a D-grade rating, amounting to around 200 Combat Points, unless he encountered exceptionally high-level Pokemon.
Yet facing high-level Pokemon increased the chances of sustaining injuries, as consistently dodging all their moves was unrealistic.
Maintaining sufficient stamina allowed him to continue targeting easier opponents. Apart from the fatigue from wandering around, the actual battle process wasn't draining; he simply stood, unleashing moves, and retreated when faced with overly strong adversaries.
Gurgle.
Soon, Lian felt hungry and paused his training sessions. Eating was crucial for replenishing energy. Without sustenance, how could one muster strength?
Soon, Lian felt hungry and stopped battling. Eating was crucial; without nourishment, he wouldn't have the energy to continue.
Upon returning to their usual spot, Kalia had not yet come back. Typically, when Lian felt hungry, Kalia's training sessions were still ongoing.
Lian leaned against a rock to rest, feeling quite worn out from all the running around. He even noticed himself getting thinner. If it weren't for his goal of keeping up with Treecko's level progression, he wouldn't push himself this hard.
It's alright, just temporary. With the system's assistance, as his level increases, the gap between him and Treecko will widen further. Eventually, there won't be any need to worry about competition from Treecko.
Shortly after, Kalia returned with Treecko, marking the start of breakfast time. Starving, Lian quickly devoured his meal like a whirlwind.
Patting his satisfied stomach, Lian leaned back against the stone, squinting contentedly under the sun, enjoying the leisurely post-meal relaxation.
He realized that this lifestyle wasn't bad at all. Previously, lacking ambition and having little to do each day, he felt unfulfilled. But now, with clear goals, even battling didn't seem overly exhausting; instead, it felt meaningful.
When Lian first crossed over, he clung to his relaxed lifestyle from his previous life and struggled to adapt. However, gradually, he began adjusting back to normalcy, no longer solely pursuing a laid-back existence.
After all, could one truly remain idle for a lifetime? A carefree life requires immense strength as its foundation. If Lian were a Slaking, it wouldn't matter if he slept all day; neither Pokemon nor Trainers would dare disturb him due to their fear of Slaking's potent abilities, despite its lazy nature.
Why couldn't I have been reincarnated as a Slaking instead?
Although Slaking may be unattractive and not fitting his persona, its sheer power is undeniable. No Pokemon would dare provoke it, knowing that even a single punch could bring down a Pseudo-legendary.
Lost in these random thoughts, Lian opened his eyes. The warm sunlight made him feel drowsy, but now wasn't the time for sleep; lunchtime was when napping felt most appropriate.
Shaking his head to dispel the sleepiness, Lian focused on resting, replenishing his energy for the upcoming morning training session.
The morning routine remained consistent: Kalia trained with Treecko while Lian practiced Dragon Breath.
Starting tomorrow, Kalia planned to resume Charmander's combat training, aiming to master the use of Dragon Breath effectively during battles.
***
Time flew by, and three days quickly passed.
Lian had spent these three days in the Kana Mountains, feeling a sense of fulfillment unlike before.
Previously, his daily routine was relaxed but always felt incomplete, lacking purpose. However, now with clear goals, each step taken towards them gradually filled his heart, instilling a profound sense of satisfaction.
This feeling was immensely comforting, resonating at a deeper emotional level, akin to the tranquility experienced after a satisfying meal. Moreover, this continuous sensation provided him with unwavering motivation.
Over these three days, Lian focused solely on combat training, declining to join Kalia's sessions. His priority lay in leveling up rapidly, accelerating his growth.
Kalia's lack of understanding was inevitable, as Lian couldn't reveal the existence of the system. Occasionally showcasing talent in mastering moves was acceptable, but instantly achieving high proficiency upon learning would inevitably raise suspicions.
The three days of training yielded impressive results, satisfying Lian greatly. Although he wasn't sure about Treecko's level, his own had increased to Level 12, gaining two levels within just three days, which was remarkably fast.
Additionally, he accumulated Combat Points without spending them, as increasing the Special Attack Attribute by one point required 120 Combat Points, making it currently unaffordable.
As upgrading the Special Attack Attribute became increasingly challenging, Lian began considering enhancing other abilities such as Stamina, Defense, and Special Defense.
Initially, Lian believed that swiftly defeating opponents would yield the highest combat ratings. However, with more battle experience, his understanding evolved.
For instance, higher Special Defense and Defense values reduced incoming damage, indirectly improving the combat rating. While high speed and strong attacks could quickly defeat opponents, this wasn't a game where those attributes guaranteed swift victory. In real battles, the dynamics were different.
Powerful Pokemon were ubiquitous, and encountering high-level, swift ones could easily lead to defeat if not cautious.
After staying for three days, Kalia prepared to leave the Kana Mountains and head towards Falcon City. However, she planned to depart tomorrow morning rather than today.
Meanwhile, Lian ventured alone around the Kana Mountains seeking battles with Pokemon, primarily focusing on this specific area.
Over these past few days, it seemed that all the easily manageable Pokemon nearby had gone into hiding, as if aware he was searching for them, which frustrated Lian greatly.
"Should I explore further away?" Lian pondered.
He quickly assessed his surroundings, pinpointing his location, and decided to change areas. With local Pokemon unwilling to emerge, there wasn't much else he could do.
Crossing over a hilltop, Lian reached another mountain. After briefly scanning the vicinity, he spotted several Starly hopping playfully, occasionally taking flight and landing again.
However, Lian didn't intend to challenge the Starly, knowing that Staravia often frequented their vicinity. Previously, after bullying one Starly, he had been relentlessly chased by a Staravia for quite some time.
Although Staravia's base stats aren't particularly high, their levels typically range from fourteen upwards. The most crucial aspect is that Staravia are social flying-type Pokémon; if provoked, they quickly summon their companions.
Lian could defeat one Staravia, but facing a group would be too challenging.
However, some Trainers are exceptionally daring. In the distance, Lian spotted a young man with short hair, wearing a purple shirt and headband, cautiously approaching the Starly flock.
Clearly a Trainer, likely nearing his twenties, he held a red-and-white Poké Ball in hand.
"Go, Axew!" In the next moment, the young Trainer tossed the Poké Ball, releasing a Pokémon right in front of the Starly.
It was indeed a Dragon-type Axew.
Lian was somewhat surprised to see this Trainer had captured an Axew, as these Pokémon are notoriously hard to find. They usually hide deep within secluded caves, making them quite rare.
Moreover, Axew being a Dragon-type, once evolved into Fraxure, its combat power skyrockets. Its ultimate evolution form, Haxorus, possesses strength comparable to Pseudo-Legendary Pokémon.
"Axew, use Bite!" The young Trainer commanded Axew to attack. With swift speed, Axew charged towards Starly upon landing. Upon hearing the command, it opened its mouth and bit down on Starly.
Once Axew latched onto Starly, the smaller bird Pokémon struggled momentarily before losing strength, unable to resist further.
Just then, a loud cry echoed as a Staravia swooped in from afar. Compared to Starly, Staravia's claws were sharper, and its size significantly larger.
"Axew, our target is here! Prepare Dragon Claw!" Recognizing Staravia, the young Trainer swiftly issued his next order, with clear intent on capturing this Pokémon.
Typically, Staravia inhabit grasslands or forests and often live in groups, making them challenging to capture. Discovering these Starly was unexpectedly fortunate, as they successfully drew out the desired Staravia.
Seeing the injured Starly, Staravia angrily charged at Axew, its wings glowing brightly, indicating a flying-type Wing Attack move.
Undaunted, Axew leaped into action. Despite having short arms, when executing Dragon Claw, a dragon-like claw emerged, lunging towards Staravia.
Wings clashed with claws, neutralizing each other momentarily. However, Axew's Dragon Claw seemed stronger, forcing Staravia back.
The young Trainer continued commanding Axew to attack. Despite Staravia's impressive speed, Axew's offensive power was significantly higher. Even when using Wing Attack to block Dragon Claw, Staravia sustained considerable damage to its wings.
Lian observed the battle from the sidelines, feeling slightly astonished. This Axew is remarkably strong, having already learned Dragon Claw, which typically requires at least level 18 to master.
As the fight progressed, Lian estimated that this Axew must be just below level 20 but undoubtedly above level 18; otherwise, it couldn't have learned Dragon Claw.
It became evident that Staravia's level was insufficient. Facing Axew's relentless onslaught, it quickly struggled to hold on. Dragon Claw is one of the formidable moves within the dragon-type repertoire, and after inadvertently taking a direct hit, Staravia nearly lost its ability to continue battling.
Upon defeating Staravia, the young Trainer swiftly threw a Poké Ball, displaying his expertise. The red light on the ball flashed three times before emitting a ding sound, successfully capturing the Staravia.
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******
After successfully capturing Staravia, the young Trainer released it again and promptly sprayed some Potion on its wounds.
However, the Staravia appeared severely injured; even with the Potion, it remained lethargic and unfriendly towards the young Trainer. If not for its injuries preventing flight, it likely would have already escaped.
Some Pokemon exhibit this behavior - initially resistant to their new Trainer after capture. Over time, through interaction and the binding connection of the Poké Ball, they gradually become more affectionate towards their Trainer.
As Lian observed the Axew from earlier, he felt tempted. He still hadn't used his combat rating points for today, and if he could defeat all the young Trainer's Pokemon, he believed there was a chance to earn significantly high combat ratings.
Dealing with just one Axew wouldn't be too challenging, but it was clear that the young Trainer wasn't inexperienced, having at least two or more Pokemon.
Although this Axew was strong, its speed wasn't exceptional. With Lian recently mastering Dragon Breath, which effectively counters Axew, he felt confident in defeating it.
However, without knowing about any other powerful Pokemon the Trainer might possess, risking a potential upset could lead to disastrous consequences.
If Lian were defeated, his Pokémon would be captured by a Poké Ball and become part of the young Trainer's collection—a significant risk.
After some thought, Lian decided to cautiously follow this Trainer, observe first, determine which Pokémon they had, and then decide whether to engage or not. He wouldn't enter a battle without confidence.
The young Trainer didn't leave immediately, clearly indicating that, like Kalia, he was here to train his Pokémon in the Kana Mountains, capturing Staravia being just an opportunity along the way.
Lian carefully trailed behind him. It was still early, with plenty of time before lunch. If the opponent's Pokémon proved too strong, he would simply abandon the idea.
The young Trainer didn't venture far, starting battles nearby. Once he released his Pokémon, Lian got a clear view: the Trainer had three Pokémon in total—an Axew, the injured Staravia, and a bronze-colored Bronzor.
Lian's eyes lit up. The Bronzor floating in mid-air indicated it possessed the Levitate Ability rather than Heatproof, meaning it would suffer significantly from Fire-type attacks.
Bronzor is both Steel and Psychic type; although it has excellent defense and Special Defense, its offensive capabilities are relatively weak. Lian sensed an opportunity, as Dragon Breath effectively counters Axew, while Ember counters Bronzor.
The only concern was Axew, which had already learned Dragon Claw, making it quite formidable. With Lian's current defense, he couldn't withstand even one hit from Axew's Dragon Claw. If struck, he would likely be incapacitated instantly.
Fortune favors the bold, and Lian believed his chances of success were high. It was worth giving it a try, potentially scoring higher than his previous gym battle performance.
Let's do this.
Lian made up his mind, pretending to casually pass by within view of the young Trainer.
With its striking orange-red color, Charmander immediately caught the Trainer's attention. Missing a Charmander swiftly passing right under your nose would practically make you blind.
"Charmander?!" The young Trainer was stunned, rubbing his eyes, unsure at first glance. But there it was—the vibrant orange silhouette with a flaming tail—undeniably a Charmander.
The young Trainer felt blessed by the goddess of luck; this fortune came unexpectedly quickly after just capturing a Staravia, only to encounter a wild Charmander immediately afterward.
He sensed it was practically handed down from the heavens, destined for him to capture. Missing this opportunity would be unforgivable.
With determined pursuit and an ecstatic expression, the young Trainer chased after the Charmander, feeling that today was his lucky day.
Lian noticed the approaching Trainer and intentionally slowed down, otherwise, they wouldn't have stood a chance to catch up.
It's about time.
As Lian reached near a rocky cliff, he turned around to face the young Trainer, giving the impression that there was nowhere else to run.
"Charmander, let's battle!" The young Trainer's excitement surged as soon as he saw the Charmander stop, and he shouted eagerly.
In the next moment, he sent out his Axew. As a Dragon-type Pokemon, it could resist Fire-type moves, making him confident that defeating this Charmander would be effortless.
Hooked.
Lian immediately focused, recognizing this as a critical moment. The greatest threat was undoubtedly the Axew, so he had to strategically reveal his speed advantage at the opportune time.
Axew scurried forward on its short legs, and promptly, the young Trainer commanded, "Axew, use Dragon Claw!"
The Trainer's plan was straightforward - aiming to swiftly defeat Charmander with Dragon Claw and effortlessly capture it afterward.
Unfortunately for him, while he sought to capture Lian, Lian was also anticipating his moves. As soon as Axew charged, Lian unleashed Dragon Breath, denying Axew any chance of initiating first.
Dragon-type energy exuded dominance; when Lian breathed out forcefully, an invisible yet intense wave surged towards Axew like a torrential tide.
Sensing imminent danger, Axew found itself too close, caught off guard by the unexpected knowledge that this Charmander had already learned Dragon Breath. Consequently, the Trainer couldn't warn Axew in time to dodge.
In the next instant, the powerful blast sent Axew flying, causing continuous damage and forcing it painfully to the ground.
"Axew!" The young Trainer was equally taken aback by Charmander's sudden Dragon Breath move and quickly checked on Axew.
Axew struggled to its feet, bearing numerous injuries. As both Pokemon were of the Dragon type, Dragon moves inflicted greater damage, clearly leaving Axew severely wounded.
However, Axew was not yet defeated, just as Lian had anticipated - one Dragon Breath wasn't enough to overcome it.
Lian patiently waited for Dragon Breath's cooldown period. Using Ember might be risky, as he couldn't determine how much energy Axew still had left; if Ember failed to incapacitate Axew, it would only waste valuable time.
After standing up, Axew remembered its Trainer's command and charged towards Lian, with Dragon Claw manifesting around its short claws.
Realizing that speed was now crucial to maintain distance, Lian recalled watching Kalia direct Treecko to evade opponents' attacks using agility. He decided to mimic her strategy, directly applying it to his situation.
Lian's Speed ability value had already surpassed 300, while this Axew's Speed ability value was merely in the mid-50s. Without specialized speed training, there was no way Axew could outpace him.
Indeed, as Lian sprinted at full speed, Axew couldn't keep up and could only watch helplessly as the distance between them widened.
"How can this Charmander be so fast?" the young Trainer exclaimed in surprise. Although Axew wasn't known for its high speed, he was well aware of his Pokemon's capabilities, expecting it to be at least on par with Charmander.
Yet, even before evolving, this Charmander displayed remarkable agility, faster than his newly captured Staravia.
"Axew, use Taunt!" Realizing that Charmander seemed intent on fleeing, the young Trainer hastily commanded Axew to employ the Taunt move.
Taunt is a Dark-type move where a Pokemon uses body language to provoke anger in its opponent, compelling them to attack directly. It effectively prevents the enemy from escaping or using certain status-changing moves.
Upon hearing the command, Axew swiftly changed tactics, abandoning Dragon Claw in favor of Taunt.
Lian felt a surge of malevolence directed towards him, impossible to evade. Turning to face Axew, a wave of fury instantly engulfed him-an effect of the Taunt move, unavoidable by design.
Lian knew he shouldn't let anger control him, but deep down, his fury could not be suppressed, seeking an outlet.
"Perfect opportunity! Axew, use Dragon Claw." The young Trainer seized the moment as Charmander paused, quickly commanding Axew to unleash its Dragon Claw move.
Although Lian was affected by Taunt, his thoughts remained clear. Despite his rage, he had no intention of fleeing from the battle.
His Dragon Breath ability was nearly ready again. As Axew approached, Lian opened his mouth wide like a roaring dragon and unleashed a fierce Dragon Breath fueled by his anger.
The young Trainer was momentarily stunned. How could this Charmander release Dragon Breath so swiftly? Wild Pokemon typically lack formal training, and those that gain extensive combat experience usually evolve before mastering moves with such proficiency.
This Charmander, however, was truly peculiar - not only astonishingly fast but also remarkably skilled at using Dragon Breath. It seemed illogical.
Could it already have a Trainer?
The thought crossed the young Trainer's mind, but it appeared highly unlikely. Which Trainer would casually release their Pokemon into the wild, especially one as rare as a Charmander?
While the young Trainer was astonished, the battle had already concluded. Dragon Breath has a significantly longer range than Ember, and before Axew could even reach Lian, it was blasted away by the Dragon Breath, rendering it unable to continue fighting.
"Return, Axew."
The youth observed his battered Axew and promptly recalled it into its Poké Ball for rest. Then, he turned his attention towards Charmander.
He still had a Bronzor and an injured Staravia, but currently, Staravia did not obey his commands, leaving only Bronzor available for combat.
Letting this Charmander go might be his biggest regret. Although Fire-types have an advantage over Bronzor, defense is one of Bronzor's strengths, making it worth a try.
Additionally, he possessed a small Revive fragment that could instantly restore Axew's energy and combat capability. However, any medication requiring internal consumption can cause some harm to Pokemon, as most drugs have potential side effects. Typically, Trainers prefer visiting the Pokémon Center for healing their Pokémon's injuries.
This Revive fragment was purchased from a store in a major city by a friend at a hefty price.
But now, determined to capture the Charmander, he couldn't afford to worry about such consequences.
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