Pokemon: A New Path

Chapter 414: Surfing Giratina

Chapter 414: Surfing Giratina

Happy New Year!

Just as Naoki was settling in, several notifications buzzed on his Rotom Phone. Curious, he tapped the screen to find New Year's greetings from Geeta and Alder.

Naoki smiled as he typed out warm replies to each of them. He then scrolled through his social feed to check the posts shared by Champion trainers and Gym Leaders celebrating the New Year.

Geeta's photo caught his attention first. The backdrop showed the headquarters of the Paldea League, where she appeared to be hard at work. Naoki raised an eyebrow. "Is this workaholic seriously working overtime on New Year's Eve?" he mused.

In contrast, Leon's post was brimming with warmth. The picture showed him at his hometown in Postwick. His family—grandparents, parents, and younger brother Hop—was gathered around the dinner table, smiles all around.

Iono had posted as well, lamenting her predicament in a lighthearted way. Her parents had left her at home with a herd of Pokémon while they went out for some alone time.

The accompanying photo showed Iono slumped in mock despair, two Magnemite hovering lazily over her head. Naoki chuckled, easily imagining the comedic scene. He liked her post, and not long after, a message from her popped up.

[Iono: What are you up to?]

Naoki snapped a quick photo of the living room, where the Pokémon were curled up peacefully.

[Naoki: Watching the Pokémon sleep. What about you?]

[Iono: Hehe, I'm with my Pokemon too. They're setting off fireworks here in Levincia, and it's SO loud outside!]

[Naoki: Fireworks have stopped here. The ranch is a little far from town. I was eating earlier, so I missed most of them.]

Compared to the bustling city of Levincia, Kosaji Town was quaint and tranquil. The smaller population meant fewer celebrations, but Naoki didn't mind the serenity.

Iono didn't reply immediately. Instead, a few moments later, his phone buzzed with an incoming video call. Naoki blinked in surprise but quickly adjusted the volume. Careful not to disturb the sleeping Pokémon, he tiptoed outside before answering.

As the call connected, the screen filled with a dazzling display of fireworks bursting against the night sky.

"Naoki, look! Fireworks!" Iono exclaimed, her voice barely audible over the crackles and booms.

Naoki froze for a moment, then smiled, realizing why she had called. This was such a classic Iono thing to do—spontaneous and vibrant, just like her.

"I see them," Naoki said with a chuckle, watching the neon-lit streets of Levincia below the fireworks. "It looks lively over there."

While Levincia was bustling with energy, Kosaji Town remained quiet, its blanket of snow absorbing all sound. The contrast between their settings was stark but endearing.

The camera shifted, and Iono's cheerful face came into view. She was bundled up in a cozy yellow coat adorned with lightning bolt patterns, a nod to her Electric-type specialty. Her usual Magnemite headwear was swapped for a fluffy knitted hat, and thick cotton gloves covered her hands.

The cold weather had painted Iono's cheeks a rosy red, but her bright smile shone through as she grinned, showing her white teeth. "Wow, Rotom phones are so convenient!" she said cheerfully.

Naoki couldn't help but chuckle. "They really are!"

Hearing this, he couldn't resist thinking about Iono's future in the world of technology. As a Gym Leader specializing in Electric-types, her vibrant personality seemed perfect for the internet. He recalled her role as a Video Star in some versions of the games and casually asked, "Have you thought about your plans for the future? Like, maybe doing some part-time work online? You could try live streaming gym battles, uploading videos to Pichu TV, or even opening an online store. A lot of people are exploring the internet industry these days."

"Huh?" Iono blinked in surprise. "How did you know I was planning to be a live streamer?"

"Wait, you're actually considering it?" Naoki said, feigning surprise.

"Of course!" she nodded enthusiastically. "I mean, doesn't it totally fit my style to broadcast my gym battles live? I want to make Levincia Gym the most popular gym in the entire Paldea region!"

Naoki smiled, nodding encouragingly. "That's a great idea! My Pokémon and I will definitely tune in to support you when you go live!"

He thought to himself that helping Iono build her initial following could benefit both of them. Once she became a popular streamer, he could collaborate with her to promote the ranch's online store. Selling fruits and Moo Moo Milk through her streams would be a win-win!

Unbeatable deals on fresh produce—please help us!

...

As winter gave way to spring, the snow melted, and the world began to stir with new life. Early spring marked the departure of the Hero Expedition Team on another journey, continuing their adventures in the vast Pokémon world.

The year 200 of the Alliance Calendar was shaping up to be remarkable. Inspired by the success of the Rotom Phone, innovation surged in other communication technologies that had stagnated for years.

Bulky, outdated computers were replaced by sleek, portable tablets and laptops. Gaming consoles also made their debut, causing quite a stir.

When Naoki stumbled upon the 3DS being sold online, he was momentarily stunned. 

Curious, Naoki decided to purchase a 3DS. He had high hopes for classic Nintendo titles like Mario or The Legend of Zelda. However, when the console arrived, he discovered it was tailored specifically to the Pokémon world.

Instead of his anticipated games, the 3DS was loaded with titles like Pokémon Racing League, where Pokémon like Rapidash and Arcanine competed in thrilling races, and Pokémon Playhouse Simulator, a light-hearted game about taking care of Pokémon.

After trying it out for a day, Naoki lost interest. However, Brother Indeedee quickly became enamored with the racing game. 

Not long after, Sister Indeedee also became captivated by the device. Unlike her brother, she adored the playhouse simulator.

The two siblings struck an agreement to take turns playing the console for an hour each day, but their constant negotiations eventually wore Naoki down. Unable to tolerate the squabbles, he ended up buying a second 3DS for sister Indeedee.

The two Indeedee's were as reliable as ever. While they enjoyed playing games on their 3DS consoles, they never let their hobbies interfere with their responsibilities. Everything in the house remained well-managed, clean, and organized.

Meanwhile, Pawmot's parents had also settled comfortably into life at the ranch. Along with Pawmot, the family took pride in their new roles as managers of the chicken coop. Every day, they diligently herded the hens and ensured the coop remained in excellent condition.

With his ranch running smoothly, Naoki turned his full attention to managing his online shop.

On February 15th of the 200th year of the Alliance Calendar, Naoki officially launched his online store. However, after three long days, not a single order came through.

Naoki couldn't help but feel a bit disheartened and began to question his efforts.

He carefully reviewed every detail of the store but found nothing obviously wrong. "Could it be because I'm only selling ordinary crops and Moo Moo Milk?" he mused. After all, these were basic goods readily available in nearby cities. Fresh vegetables and milk weren't exactly rare commodities.

Additionally, Naoki realized that online shopping had yet to become a widespread habit. While the Rotom Phone was steadily gaining popularity, the number of users was still far from its peak.

After some thought, Naoki understood the situation. "It's just a matter of timing," he concluded. "If they don't sell now, I can always use them here at the ranch."

He turned off the phone and decided to check on the ranch's crops. Just as he was heading outside, Indeedee came running toward him with an excited look.

"Ai ah!" it called, motioning urgently for Naoki to follow.

Sensing something important, Naoki hurried to the incubator. As soon as he entered the room, he spotted a cracked egg in the crib—a light pink Dratini was beginning to emerge!

With a final crack, the egg split open, and a shiny Dratini poked its head out. Its glimmering scales reflected the light, making it even more enchanting.

"A shiny Dratini!" Naoki exclaimed, marveling at his incredible luck. "This must be my lucky day."

The Dratini blinked its bright black eyes, curiously observing its surroundings. When it saw Naoki, the little Pokémon let out a soft, affectionate cry.

"Woo~"

Naoki smiled warmly. "It already knows me," he said to Indeedee. He remembered that he had infused the egg with his dragon power during its development, so the Dratini must have become familiar with his presence and scent.

As Naoki stepped closer, the Dratini wiggled its way into his hands. He gently transferred some of his dragon energy into the newborn, and the Dratini let out a satisfied sigh, clearly enjoying the comforting energy. After eating a light meal, it nestled in Naoki's arms and fell asleep, its small body curling up contentedly.

Naoki had plenty of experience caring for young Pokémon, especially Eevee, so he easily adjusted to looking after the Dratini. Carefully, he carried the sleeping Pokémon downstairs, heading outside to introduce it to the two Dragonites.

The two adult Dragonites widened their eyes and leaned closer to inspect the Dratini nestled in Naoki's arms. With just a glance, they recognized the tiny dragon as their own child.

A warm sense of familiarity emanated from the little Dratini, and the Dragonites could feel their bond with it instantly.

"Ooou~"

Both Dragonites let out delighted cries, their expressions filled with joy.

They knew entrusting their egg to Naoki had been the right decision.

Naoki stood there, observing the happy couple with a blank expression. "Aren't you planning to take the little one back to Dragonite Island and take care of it yourselves?"

The Dragonite couple vigorously shook their heads. "Oooou!"

They explained, through their gestures and cries, that they spent more time at the ranch than on Dragonite Island. For them, leaving the baby at Naoki Ranch was the best choice. They felt reassured knowing Naoki would care for their child.

This arrangement also meant they could visit their baby every day, ensuring they wouldn't miss a moment of its growth. Plus, they were already looking forward to sharing meals with it when it grew old enough to enjoy the ranch's special treats.

Understanding their heartfelt reasoning, Naoki sighed and gave a small smile. "You two just want to save yourselves the trouble, huh?"

The Dragonites chirped happily, seemingly agreeing with his assessment.

Still, Naoki didn't mind. "Alright then, I'll continue taking care of this little one."

.....

Meanwhile, in the Reverse World, on the Sky Island of Flowers

Giratina was busy using telepathy to direct its Rotom Phone, browsing the internet with an air of regal authority.

After months of practice, Giratina had become a master at operating its Rotom Phone, swiftly navigating through apps and websites with ease.

Its companion Rotom had also grown accustomed to the fearsome Pokémon. While it was no longer petrified of Giratina, it remained cautious of the dragon's infamous temper.

Giratina wasn't shy about criticizing things it disliked, and Rotom had learned to tread carefully. As its "hands" typed out commands, Rotom maintained a heightened sense of awareness, prepared for the dragon's sudden outbursts.

Today, however, Giratina seemed unusually amused, and a sly grin played on its face. It directed Rotom to search for some rather specific terms.

"Search for Dialga and Palkia," Giratina commanded.

Upon hearing this, Rotom knew that Giratina was going to cause trouble again.

Still, Rotom had no choice but to comply. Trembling slightly, it began the search and prepared to deliver the results in its cheerful, automated voice.

"I have found information on Dialga and Palkia, Rotom~!"

"Dialga, according to the legends of the Sinnoh region, is known as the God of Time. It has the power to control time itself. It is said that with its birth, time began to flow," Rotom recited.

"Palkia, according to the same legends, is called the God of Space. It has the ability to distort and shape space. It is said that when this deity emerges, the barriers between worlds vanish, revealing boundless dimensions!"

"Humans in the Sinnoh region even built statues of them, and someone posted a discussion about Dialga and Palkia, Rotom!" chirped the Rotom cheerfully. "That human seems to adore these two Pokémon!"

Giratina narrowed its glowing crimson eyes. When it heard that those two were revered as gods, it bristled with disdain. 'Gods? What kind of nonsense gods are they?'

It sneered inwardly but quickly gave another command. "Search for the great Giratina!"

Rotom obeyed immediately, typing away with its metaphorical hands. However, it soon froze. An awkward pause hung in the air before Rotom finally squeaked, "I can't find any relevant information, Rotom."

Giratina's eyes widened in disbelief. "What? Check again!"

Rotom frantically repeated the search but was met with the same results. "Nothing, Rotom…" it said nervously.

For a moment, Giratina remained silent, its ominous aura growing thicker. Rotom could feel the Pokémon's rising anger radiating like heat waves.

After what felt like an eternity, Giratina finally spoke. "You said a human posted about those two?"

"Yes, Rotom!" chirped Rotom nervously.

Giratina's voice carried an edge of malice. "Ask them if they know the great Giratina."

Reluctantly, Rotom sent a message on behalf of Giratina, inquiring about its own reputation.

The reply came swiftly:

[Unknown User: Giratina? What's that?]

Giratina's eye twitched, but before it could explode, Rotom sent another message, as per Giratina's instructions: [Giratina is the most powerful god in the world. It is far stronger than Dialga and Palkia!]

The response hit like a sucker punch:

[Unknown User: Never heard of it. Are you making this up? Comparing power levels of Pokémon? No way Giratina is stronger than Dialga and Palkia! Dialga controls time and could just rewind Giratina back to before it existed. Get it?]

Giratina: !?!!?

The Reverse World trembled under Giratina's furious roar. "HOW DARE THEY!?" it bellowed, its voice shaking the island.

Rotom trembled violently, wishing it could disappear. Sure enough, Giratina's next words confirmed its fears.

"Tell them to wait," Giratina growled, its tone cold as ice.

Rotom hesitated, its small voice quivering. "W-what are you going to do, Rotom?"

"I'm going to teach this insolent human a lesson. Rotom, find their location!" Giratina demanded.

"This is against human laws! I-I can't do that, Rotom!" the little Pokémon stammered.

Giratina scoffed, snorting disdainfully. "Do human laws apply to me?"

Realizing Rotom wouldn't—or couldn't—comply, Giratina decided to take matters into its own hands. It activated its ability to peer into the real world through the Reverse World.

In the next instant, Giratina's colossal form rose into the air, its shadowy wings unfurling menacingly. It was clear it intended to track down this human itself.

"Wait, no! You can't just—" Rotom yelped in panic before scrambling onto Giratina's back. As the massive Pokémon prepared to leave, Rotom frantically called Naoki through the Rotom Phone.

"Naoki, help! Giratina's about to trace someone through the internet to teach them a lesson! Rotom!"