Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• The sandstorm in Asado Desert ends, allowing Xia Chen and Arven to locate Great Tusk with Koraidon’s help.
• Koraidon deliberately lures Great Tusk into battle and defeats it with overwhelming ease.
• Xia Chen harvests the Sour Herba Mystica while Great Tusk lies unconscious nearby.
• Charcadet, secretly carrying the soul and knowledge of the former alchemist Yao Chen, is horrified when Xia Chen grinds the rare herb into seasoning instead of using it for alchemy.
• Xia Chen prepares a large meal using the Sour Herba Mystica. The entire group eats, including the initially hesitant Charcadet.
• The meal fully restores Arven’s Mabosstiff, though Koraidon shows no obvious improvement despite consuming the herbs.
• Xia Chen revives Great Tusk and interrogates it about its origins. It claims to have arrived sixty years ago from a world 940 years in the future, but its answers about that world are vague and nearly useless.
• Xia Chen suspects that Great Tusk and the other Paradox Pokémon conceal a deeper mystery, especially given Great Tusk’s contradictory combination of advanced technology and primitive intelligence.
• Before leaving, Xia Chen gives Great Tusk several Herba Mystica plants and prepares to return Charcadet to the place where it had lived.
• Charcadet asks to trade for some of the herbs. Xia Chen generously gives it ten plants, and Charcadet promises to repay him a hundredfold within ten years.
• Xia Chen then invites Charcadet to travel with him. Charcadet accepts after Xia Chen assures it that it may leave whenever it chooses and need not even remain in a Poké Ball.
• Back in Cascarrafa, Arven departs for Mesagoza after Mabosstiff’s recovery. He gives Xia Chen the Scarlet and Violet Book, containing information about Paradox Pokémon and the Great Crater.
• Xia Chen studies the book and finds disturbing accounts of the explorer Haizhe, including memory loss, unconscious writing, and a mysterious disc-shaped crystalline entity possibly connected to the powerful being Koraidon once mentioned.
• Xia Chen postpones confronting Miraidon, choosing to let Koraidon recover and to handle other priorities first.
• Charcadet begins researching a medicinal bath to strengthen its weak body before cultivating the Flame Mantra. It plans to use Sour Herba Mystica as the main ingredient.
• The other Pokémon secretly discuss Charcadet’s suspiciously mature behavior and unusual eyes, wondering about its hidden past. They decide to investigate, though none wants to approach it directly; the task eventually falls to Gholdengo.

2. Character Developments

• Xia Chen: Becomes increasingly suspicious of the origins and secrets of the Paradox Pokémon. He also demonstrates his characteristic generosity by giving Great Tusk and Charcadet valuable Herba Mystica. His respectful, noncontrolling attitude toward Charcadet deepens their bond.
• Koraidon: Continues to display overwhelming combat power despite claiming to be badly weakened. It appears to know more about Great Tusk and the mysterious disc entity than it admits, often teasing or misleading Xia Chen.
• Arven: Gains closure after Mabosstiff’s recovery and prepares to return to school. His gift of the Scarlet and Violet Book signals growing trust and friendship with Xia Chen, while Xia Chen’s reminder about visiting his parents touches on Arven’s unresolved family issues.
• Charcadet/Yao Chen: Moves from suspicion and cautious observation to accepting Xia Chen as a potential companion. It reveals its goal of rebuilding its physical foundation and preparing for cultivation before its former consciousness fades.
• Great Tusk: Is shown to be communicative but intellectually limited, offering little useful information about its future origin. Its presence nevertheless reinforces the mystery surrounding the Paradox Pokémon.
• Mabosstiff: Fully recovers, resolving the central problem that brought Arven on the journey.
• The Pokémon team: Becomes curious and suspicious about Charcadet, whose mature demeanor and secretive behavior distinguish it from the others.

3. Significant Themes

• Freedom and companionship: Xia Chen treats Pokémon as equals rather than possessions, allowing Charcadet to leave if it ever wishes. This freedom is what ultimately convinces Charcadet to join him.
• The limits of knowledge: Great Tusk’s poor answers and the obscured information in the Scarlet and Violet Book show that advanced technology and historical records do not necessarily provide true understanding.
• Contradictions of the future: Great Tusk appears highly technologically advanced but mentally primitive, raising questions about how Paradox Pokémon were created and what “future” they truly came from.
• Alchemy versus cuisine: Charcadet views Herba Mystica as an extremely valuable medicinal ingredient, while Xia Chen uses it casually in cooking. Their differing perspectives create humor and highlight the cultural gap between them.
• Rebirth, memory, and identity: Charcadet’s former identity as Yao Chen is gradually fading. Its concern for its future self and its need to choose a trustworthy companion emphasize the instability of identity across lives.
• Building a foundation: Both literal and metaphorical foundations are important. Charcadet seeks to strengthen its body before cultivation, while relationships are likewise built through trust, freedom, and mutual respect.
• Hidden cosmic mysteries: The disc-shaped entity, the Great Crater, and the origins of the Paradox Pokémon suggest a larger supernatural or technological mystery still beyond Xia Chen’s understanding.

4. Character Interactions

• Xia Chen and Koraidon continue their teasing, suspicious relationship: Xia Chen questions Koraidon’s hidden knowledge, while Koraidon deliberately gives evasive answers.
• Xia Chen and Great Tusk interact through combat, treatment, interrogation, and negotiation. Despite defeating it, Xia Chen ultimately rewards and releases it.
• Charcadet silently judges Xia Chen’s cooking and herb usage, initially considering him wasteful and possibly incompetent, but its opinion softens after experiencing his generosity and abilities.
• Sylveon warmly invites Charcadet to eat, helping it feel accepted by the group.
• Xia Chen and Charcadet’s farewell conversation becomes a turning point. Their simultaneous declarations, exchange of herbs, and discussion of future departure establish mutual trust.
• Xia Chen and Arven part as genuine allies. Arven gives him the Scarlet and Violet Book, while Xia Chen encourages Arven to reconnect with his parents.
• The Pokémon team discusses Charcadet’s unusual personality and possible secret identity, but their fear of being outsmarted prevents them from confronting it directly.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen rents a spacious villa in Cascarrafa so his growing team can each have private space.
• Charcadet continues studying alchemy and prepares its first Foundation-Building Medicinal Bath in the Pokémon world. Since its small body makes brewing difficult, it considers either evolving or learning Psychic powers.
• Gholdengo visits Charcadet, officially to offer help but secretly hoping to uncover Charcadet’s mysterious abilities on behalf of the team.
• Charcadet recruits Gholdengo to add ingredients to the medicinal bath while it controls its Bone Spirit Cold Flame to brew the medicine.
• After the potion is complete, Charcadet climbs into the boiling medicinal mixture and uses it to strengthen and rebuild its body while simultaneously absorbing energy from a Fire-type Energy Gem.
• Gholdengo reports the bizarre scene to the other Pokémon, who initially find it unbelievable but eventually conclude that Charcadet is taking a medicinal bath.
• Charcadet endures intense pain for two hours. The bath successfully begins strengthening its foundation, and it plans to repeat the process for seven days before starting cultivation of the Flame Mantra.
• Xia Chen finishes studying the Scarlet and Violet Book and develops a disturbing theory: Paldea’s mysterious disk-like Legendary Pokémon may be able to turn Haizhe’s fantasies into real Pokémon, potentially explaining the existence of the Paradox Pokémon.
• Worried that Koraidon might also be an artificial creation that could disappear, Xia Chen decides to leave Paldea and return to Donghuang.

Character Developments

• Charcadet demonstrates humility and adaptability. Despite its previous accomplishments in another world, it is willing to learn Psychic abilities from Gardevoir or Xia Chen and applies its alchemical knowledge to a new environment.
• Its first successful medicinal bath establishes alchemy as a major future advantage and begins the process of transforming its physically weak body.
• Charcadet also recognizes Xia Chen as a life-changing benefactor, comparing him to important people who helped it in its previous life.
• Gholdengo is shown to be kind, helpful, curious, and somewhat excitable. It sincerely wants to assist Charcadet, though it also participates in the team’s investigation into Charcadet’s secrets.
• Xia Chen becomes increasingly uneasy about the mysteries of Paldea. His concern for Koraidon shifts from intellectual curiosity to genuine fear, leading him to make a cautious decision to leave the region.
• Koraidon notices Xia Chen’s distress and agrees to follow his decision without pressing him further.

Significant Themes

• Found family and mutual respect: Xia Chen’s team is treated as companions with privacy and autonomy rather than possessions, reinforcing Charcadet’s belief that their relationship resembles friendship or family.
• Adaptation and humility: Charcadet combines knowledge from its former world with Pokémon-world concepts such as Infinity Energy, while remaining willing to learn from others.
• The cost of growth: Physical improvement requires Charcadet to endure extreme pain, emphasizing that power and transformation come through sacrifice.
• Mystery and uncertainty: The Scarlet and Violet Book raises questions about whether imagination, prophecy, or a Legendary Pokémon created the Paradox Pokémon.
• Fear of impermanence: Xia Chen’s worry that Koraidon might be an artificial or temporary existence reveals his deep emotional attachment and fear of losing a trusted companion.
• Curiosity versus boundaries: The Pokémon are intrigued by Charcadet’s secrets but ultimately decide that investigating further would be disrespectful.

Character Interactions

• Charcadet and Gholdengo develop an initially tentative but positive relationship. Charcadet appreciates Gholdengo’s sincerity and entrusts it with assisting in the alchemical process.
• Gholdengo’s unusual report causes amusement among the team, while Sylveon provides the most reasonable interpretation of Charcadet’s actions and ends the investigation.
• Milotic’s question about how Charcadet gained its knowledge highlights the mystery surrounding its past.
• Charcadet’s treatment of Xia Chen as a benefactor strengthens the emotional foundation of their partnership.
• Xia Chen and Koraidon share a serious, emotionally charged conversation in which Xia Chen admits his fear and Koraidon reassures him through quiet obedience.

Chapter Summary: “Evolution? Ceruledge or Ceruledge?”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• In mid-August, Xia Chen visits Origin Spirit Island with his assistant Yan Shu and the island’s designers to inspect construction plans for his future Gym, Pokémon Center, power station, roads, and habitat zones.
• The proposed Gym location is near the docks but far enough from Xia Chen’s residence to preserve his privacy. Construction is progressing smoothly, with the island expected to become operational the year after next.
• After returning home, Xia Chen reflects on Charcadet’s unusually independent personality and his intense focus on alchemy, cultivation, and self-improvement.
• Charcadet has been recreating alchemical knowledge from his former life while cultivating the Flame Mantra and preparing to fuse his Bone Spirit Cold Flame. He realizes that evolution is necessary to unlock his full potential.
• Xia Chen and Charcadet independently consider Charcadet’s two possible evolutionary paths. Xia Chen initially sees advantages in both forms: one would capitalize on Charcadet’s Psychic talent, while the other would better suit a physical combat style.
• Charcadet chooses to evolve into Ceruledge, whose physical, weapon-based fighting style matches his experience with Battle Qi and close-quarters combat.
• Gholdengo provides an exceptionally high-quality Malicious Armor, purchased through the system shop. Charcadet evolves successfully into a powerful, imposing Ceruledge.
• After evolving, Ceruledge reveals that he can temporarily transform his arm-blades into hands. His pale flames are also unusual, though he refuses to explain their origin until a later time.
• During his first training session, Ceruledge demonstrates a powerful technique called Flame-Splitting Wave-Dividing Sword, which consumes roughly thirty percent of his total energy in one attack.
• Ceruledge rapidly learns several Ghost-type moves, including Shadow Claw, Phantom Force, and Swords Dance. His learning speed is so remarkable that he masters the planned week of training in just over three days.
• Ceruledge challenges Sliggoo in his first serious battle. Although Sliggoo is much stronger overall, Ceruledge uses his speed, tactics, and the Weak Armor Ability to dominate much of the fight.
• Sliggoo ultimately wins by relying on her superior defense and endurance, but the battle lasts nearly ten minutes and shocks everyone watching.
• Xia Chen comforts Sliggoo afterward, helping her overcome feelings of inadequacy and reminding her that being talented does not mean everyone else must be inferior.
• The chapter ends with Xia Chen receiving an invitation from Valerie to serve as honorary president and guest performer at the second World Pokémon Contest, scheduled for September 9 in Sootopolis City, Hoenn.

2. Character Developments

• Xia Chen: Demonstrates his practical leadership and commitment to harmonious human-Pokémon coexistence during the island’s development. He also shows emotional maturity by allowing Charcadet to choose his own evolution and by supporting Sliggoo after her difficult battle.
• Yan Shu: Continues adapting to her role as Xia Chen’s assistant, openly flattering him while remaining impressed by his strength and wealth.
• Charcadet/Ceruledge: Completes the first major stage of his reincarnated life’s development. He evolves, gains a dramatic increase in power, and begins integrating his former-world combat techniques with Pokémon abilities. Despite his aloofness, he sincerely values Xia Chen and the other Pokémon, promising not to leave until he has repaid their kindness.
• Sliggoo: Experiences insecurity after struggling against a much weaker opponent, but Xia Chen helps her recognize that victory and self-improvement matter more than maintaining an image of effortless genius.
• Gholdengo: Shows generosity and loyalty by funding Charcadet’s evolution with a rare, superior Malicious Armor.
• Drakloak and the other Pokémon: Show curiosity about Ceruledge’s new form and abilities, reinforcing the team’s growing sense of family and mutual interest.

3. Significant Themes

• Personal choice and individual identity: Evolution is not treated as merely a power increase. Xia Chen lets Charcadet choose the form that best matches his talents, preferences, and past experience.
• Growth through adaptation: Ceruledge combines techniques from his former life with Pokémon moves and Infinity Energy, suggesting that true strength comes from blending old knowledge with new circumstances.
• Independence versus companionship: Charcadet is highly self-reliant, but his evolution shows that independence does not prevent him from forming meaningful bonds or accepting help.
• Talent and humility: Sliggoo’s struggle highlights the danger of defining oneself solely through genius. Xia Chen encourages her to respect others’ abilities without diminishing her own.
• Family and mutual support: The Pokémon team contributes to Ceruledge’s growth, while Xia Chen treats all of them as partners rather than tools.
• Hidden origins and delayed revelations: Ceruledge’s unusual pale flames and mysterious past remain unexplained, creating an ongoing mystery.
• Building a new future: The development of Origin Spirit Island and the continuing success of Pokémon Contests reflect Xia Chen’s expanding influence on the Pokémon world.

4. Character Interactions

• Xia Chen and Yan Shu discuss the future Gym and island construction, with Yan Shu worrying that the island’s distance from the city may discourage challengers.
• Xia Chen reassures Charcadet that he respects his independence by leaving food outside his room rather than forcing interaction. Charcadet quietly appreciates the gesture.
• Xia Chen discusses evolution with the whole team, while Gholdengo offers to supply the necessary item.
• After evolving, Ceruledge thanks Xia Chen, Gholdengo, and the others. Xia Chen jokes about him leaving after receiving the Malicious Armor, prompting Ceruledge to promise he will remain until he repays their kindness.
• Drakloak experiments with Ceruledge’s ability to transform his blades into hands and becomes frustrated when he cannot imitate it.
• Zoroark and Drakloak help train Ceruledge in Ghost-type techniques.
• Ceruledge’s battle with Sliggoo reveals his exceptional combat instincts and creates a strong contrast between his tactical speed and Sliggoo’s defensive endurance.
• Xia Chen comforts Sliggoo after the battle, helping restore her confidence and reinforcing their affectionate bond.
• Valerie’s invitation reconnects Xia Chen to the Pokémon Contest movement he founded, setting up the next major storyline.

Summary

• Key events: The author announces revisions to earlier chapters, beginning with Chapter 399, in response to reader and author feedback. The revisions clarify the relationship between Charcadet’s memories and Yao Chen’s consciousness.
• Character developments: Charcadet’s two sets of memories are redefined as two separate consciousnesses: Charcadet’s original primary consciousness and Yao Chen’s consciousness. After returning to this world, Yao Chen gradually fades. Before disappearing, he transfers his knowledge and abilities—including Heavenly Flame, alchemy, the Flame Mantra, and combat techniques—to Charcadet’s primary consciousness. This resolves the issue of a human soul permanently inhabiting a Pokémon’s body.
• Themes: The chapter focuses on accepting criticism, confronting problems rather than avoiding them, personal growth, revision, and leaving behind a meaningful legacy. It also emphasizes the importance of reader and peer support.
• Character interactions: The author credits a fellow author, Brother Feng, and a reader for helping identify the problem and develop a solution that would not disrupt later chapters. The author also acknowledges the wider readership’s criticism and encouragement, expressing gratitude for helping them face the issue and make changes.

Chapter Summary: “Speculations on the Origin of Mega Evolution”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen receives Valerie’s letter and painting about the growth of Pokémon Performances. Moved by their success, he decides to travel to the Hoenn Region and fulfill Steven’s earlier invitation.
• Because of his victories in the Donghuang Young Trainer Conference and the World Youth Championships, Shangjing University grants him leave for the entire first half of his sophomore year.
• Xia Chen books a flight to Rustboro City, choosing it as his first destination because Devon Corp., Hoenn’s largest corporation, is headquartered there.
• Before leaving, he asks his Pokémon who wants to accompany him. Ceruledge stays behind to train and preserve the remaining memories of Yao Chen, while Sliggoo remains to reflect and improve herself. Ceruledge agrees to care for Sliggoo during Xia Chen’s absence.
• Xia Chen arrives in Rustboro City and is formally received by Kuroda, secretary to Devon Corp. President Stone Mu Jin.
• At Devon’s headquarters, Xia Chen meets President Stone. The two quickly develop a friendly, joking relationship and begin addressing each other as “uncle” and “nephew.”
• President Stone explains that his father helped develop Infinity Energy—life energy originally scattered across Kalos after AZ’s Ultimate Weapon was fired three thousand years ago. This energy became controllable, storable, and highly potent, allowing Devon Corp. to rise into a global commercial empire.
• Xia Chen realizes Devon Corp.’s history may be directly connected to the origin of Mega Evolution, since Mega Stones and Mega Evolution could be linked to life energy.
• After spending hours discussing and viewing rare stones, Xia Chen stays at a Devon-owned hotel as an honored guest.
• From Rustboro City, Xia Chen identifies Meteor Falls as another possible source of information. Its connection to Rayquaza, the Meteor People, and the alleged origin of Mega Evolution makes it his next destination.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen: Demonstrates increasing influence and independence. He no longer needs his university’s reputation, and the university benefits from being associated with him. He also shows strategic thinking by using his interest in rocks to investigate Mega Evolution discreetly.
• Ceruledge: Becomes more responsible and focused. He chooses to remain home so he can train and preserve the memories inherited from Yao Chen, then accepts responsibility for looking after Sliggoo.
• Sliggoo: Shows a desire for self-improvement and independence, though her decision to stay appears partly motivated by competition with Ceruledge.
• President Stone Mu Jin: Is portrayed as a powerful but personable businessman, a dedicated rock enthusiast, and someone who humbly credits his father’s scientific achievements for Devon Corp.’s success.
• Steven: Though absent in the chapter, his influence is important: his invitation brings Xia Chen to Hoenn, and his passion for stones reflects his family background.

Significant Themes

• Growth and legacy: Xia Chen reflects on how Pokémon Performances grew from his original idea, while President Stone discusses how his father’s research laid the foundation for Devon Corp.’s success.
• Power and influence: Xia Chen’s victories have elevated him to a level where major institutions seek association with him.
• The origins of Mega Evolution: The chapter explores competing theories involving Kalos’s Ultimate Weapon, life energy, Hoenn’s meteorites, Rayquaza, and Meteor Falls.
• Responsibility and development: Ceruledge and Sliggoo’s decisions highlight different approaches to growth—disciplined training for Ceruledge and reflection and competition for Sliggoo.
• Science, business, and Pokémon mythology: Devon Corp.’s Infinity Energy represents the intersection of technological progress, corporate power, ancient history, and legendary Pokémon.

Character Interactions

• Xia Chen consults his Pokémon collectively before deciding who will travel, showing respect for their autonomy.
• He teases Sliggoo about being unable to care for Ceruledge, while trusting the more dependable Ceruledge with responsibility.
• Xia Chen and President Stone exchange exaggerated compliments and quickly establish a warm, familial rapport.
• Stone enthusiastically shares his rock collection and his family’s history with Xia Chen, while Xia Chen subtly guides the conversation toward Kalos, Infinity Energy, and possible Mega Evolution clues.
• Kuroda acts as a courteous intermediary, escorting Xia Chen through Devon headquarters and later taking him to the hotel and dinner.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen visits Devon’s president, Mr. Stone, to learn about Meteor Village and the isolated Meteor People, a society of powerful Dragon Tamers who worship Rayquaza as the Dragon God.
• Mr. Stone explains that outsiders must earn the Meteor People’s recognition, usually through battle and by demonstrating the strength of their Dragon-type Pokémon.
• Xia Chen travels toward Meteor Falls with Koraidon. He deliberately allows Koraidon to release an Elite Four-level aura, attracting the attention of the Salamence guarding the village.
• Claiming to be an envoy from Dragon Island, Xia Chen is met by a young Dragon Tamer named Zinnia, who welcomes him into Meteor Village.
• Xia Chen learns that Meteor Village lies inside a vast cavern beneath the waterfall and that its inhabitants preserve ancient Dragon-worshipping traditions.
• He meets Alicia, the village elder and Zinnia’s grandmother. Alicia recognizes Xia Chen’s aura as similar to that of Lance, who previously visited the village and took a Bagon with him.
• Alicia initially assumes Xia Chen wants to take a Dragon Pokémon from the village and proposes a battle test. Xia Chen clarifies that he only wants information, but agrees to battle Zinnia as a courtesy.
• During the battle, Xia Chen sends out Milotic rather than Koraidon or another obvious Dragon-type. The Meteor People initially interpret this as an insult.
• Alicia and the villagers then sense that Milotic possesses an unusually powerful Dragon-type aura, despite not being a Dragon Pokémon. Alicia praises Xia Chen for raising a non-Dragon into something comparable to a Dragon-type Pokémon.
• Milotic and Zinnia’s powerful Garchomp exchange attacks. Milotic lands an early Ice Beam, while Garchomp counters with Draco Meteor and Dragon Rush. Milotic uses Protect to survive the combination, leaving the battle at a tense stalemate.
• The chapter ends when a younger girl resembling Zinnia arrives and reacts in surprise upon seeing her sister engaged in battle.

2. Character Developments

• Xia Chen demonstrates confidence, diplomacy, and tactical awareness. He carefully manages Koraidon’s aura to avoid frightening the villagers, uses the title “Dragon Island envoy” to gain entry, and handles Zinnia’s curiosity patiently.
• Xia Chen also reveals his unusual strength as a Dragon Tamer—not because he exclusively raises Dragon Pokémon, but because he has cultivated powerful Dragon-like qualities in Milotic.
• Zinnia is introduced as a talented, energetic, and competitive young Dragon Tamer. She is innocent and somewhat sheltered due to her isolated upbringing, but possesses a formidable Garchomp and an aggressive, high-level battle style.
• Zinnia becomes increasingly friendly toward Xia Chen, though she is eager to challenge him because he comes from Dragon Island and because Koraidon is unfamiliar to her.
• Alicia is shown to be wise, authoritative, and deeply devoted to the Meteor People’s traditions. She is initially strict but becomes warmer toward Xia Chen after hearing that Lance and his former Bagon are doing well.
• Milotic is presented as an exceptional Pokémon whose developed Dragon aura surprises even the Meteor People, proving Xia Chen’s unconventional training ability.
• Lance never appears directly, but his past visit has left a lasting impression on Meteor Village and may have created a competitive rivalry between the Meteor People and Dragon Island.

3. Significant Themes

• Tradition versus the outside world: Meteor Village preserves ancient customs, but younger villagers are beginning to leave and engage with the broader world.
• Recognition through strength: Among the Meteor People, battle ability and the strength of one’s Pokémon are central to trust, respect, and social status.
• What defines a Dragon Tamer: The chapter challenges the idea that a Dragon Tamer must only raise Dragon-type Pokémon. Xia Chen’s Milotic demonstrates that dedication and training can awaken Dragon-like qualities in an unlikely Pokémon.
• Cultural pride and rivalry: The Meteor People’s reverence for Rayquaza and their resentment—or competitive admiration—toward Dragon Island shape their interactions with Xia Chen.
• Hidden power and ancient legacies: Meteor Falls is linked to Rayquaza, Key Stones, and the future emergence of Mega Evolution, suggesting that Xia Chen’s visit may have broader consequences.
• Isolation and innocence: Zinnia’s curiosity about the outside world highlights both the charm and limitations of growing up in a secluded community.

4. Character Interactions

• Xia Chen and Mr. Stone discuss how to approach the Meteor People and whether their recognition can be earned through battle.
• Xia Chen and Zinnia quickly develop a friendly but competitive relationship. She eagerly questions him about Dragon Island, Koraidon, and the outside world, while Xia Chen responds tactfully to her sheltered enthusiasm.
• Zinnia proudly compares Meteor Village’s Rayquaza with Dragon Island’s Dragon God, revealing the community’s strong sense of cultural superiority.
• Alicia and Xia Chen establish mutual respect after discussing Lance and the Bagon who left Meteor Village with him.
• Alicia reprimands Zinnia for her lack of composure but ultimately supports her desire to battle Xia Chen.
• The Meteor People initially distrust Xia Chen’s Milotic, then shift to admiration when they recognize its extraordinary Dragon aura.
• Xia Chen and Zinnia’s battle becomes the central interaction of the chapter, showcasing their contrasting Pokémon and fighting styles. The unresolved match ends with the arrival of a younger girl, setting up the next development.

Chapter Summary: “A Little System Shock for the Meteor People!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen’s Milotic battles Zinnia’s near-Elite Four-level Garchomp beneath the Rayquaza statue in Meteor Village.
• Garchomp initially dominates with a coordinated sequence of Draco Meteor, Dragon Rush, and Dragon Claw, forcing Milotic onto the defensive.
• Milotic counters by firing an unexpected Draco Meteor at point-blank range. The move shocks the Meteor People because Milotic is believed to be a Water type and Draco Meteor is regarded as a signature Dragon technique.
• The attack severely damages Garchomp and sends it flying, but Garchomp survives due to its immense strength and endurance.
• Milotic’s Draco Meteor causes a temporary Special Attack drop, leaving it unable to deal much damage afterward. Xia Chen orders it to use Aqua Ring and focus on stalling with healing, Protect, and defensive positioning.
• Frustrated by Milotic’s defensive strategy, Zinnia has Garchomp use Swords Dance. Milotic exploits the opening with Hypnosis, putting Garchomp to sleep.
• Once Draco Meteor’s drawback wears off, Milotic unleashes a continuous Ice Beam, defeating Garchomp and winning the battle.
• Afterward, Zinnia uses a mysterious golden healing ability on Garchomp, which reminds Xia Chen of Viridian Force, though he cannot explain how a Meteor Person might possess it.
• Xia Chen learns that the apparent “Zinnia” he first met is actually the older sister of the real young Zinnia. This older sister was the previous heir of the Meteor People and, according to Xia Chen’s memories of another version of events, was destined to die while attempting to protect Rayquaza.
• In the shrine, Xia Chen asks Elder Alicia about Rayquaza’s possible second evolution. Alicia confirms the Meteor People’s ancient legend: Rayquaza once evolved further through the power of a Rainbow Meteorite while stopping Groudon and Kyogre.
• Alicia cannot identify the exact location of the Rainbow Meteorite, but reveals that meteorites can be found in Meteor Falls and that the legendary event occurred near Sootopolis City.
• Alicia asks young Zinnia to guide Xia Chen through Meteor Falls, giving her an opportunity to spend time with him and possibly challenge him again.

Character Developments

• Milotic proves that it is far more powerful and unusual than the Meteor People expected. Its ability to use Draco Meteor challenges their understanding of Dragon Pokémon and earns Xia Chen considerable respect.
• Xia Chen demonstrates tactical flexibility, shifting from aggressive attacks to defensive stalling once Milotic’s Draco Meteor drawback appears. He also becomes increasingly interested in Rayquaza’s evolution and Mega Evolution.
• Zinnia is revealed to be an aggressive, passionate Dragon trainer who remains confident even after Garchomp suffers heavy damage. Her fierce competitive spirit is tempered by concern for her Pokémon after the battle.
• Little Zinnia, the true younger heir, is introduced as curious, mischievous, and battle-hungry. She immediately challenges Xia Chen to earn the right to call her by her nickname.
• Elder Alicia remains cautious and perceptive. She notices that Xia Chen is hiding information but is persuaded by his explanation involving Xerneas. She also reveals important details about Meteor People history and prophecy.
• Garchomp displays exceptional durability and determination, continuing to fight after suffering a devastating Draco Meteor, though its impatience ultimately leaves it vulnerable to Hypnosis.

Significant Themes

• Challenging tradition and expectations: Milotic’s Draco Meteor overturns the Meteor People’s assumptions about what qualifies as a Dragon Pokémon and who can wield Dragon techniques.
• Strategy over brute force: The battle contrasts Garchomp’s relentless physical offense with Milotic’s defensive endurance, healing, status effects, and timing.
• The meaning of dragons: The victory symbolically presents Milotic as a “true” Dragon despite its unusual appearance and history, allowing Xia Chen to win a psychological victory over the Meteor People.
• Prophecy and uncertainty: Alicia’s ancient prophecy about Rayquaza, the Rainbow Meteorite, and a future disaster drives Xia Chen’s investigation, though its timing and details remain unclear.
• Alternate fates and changing destiny: Xia Chen recognizes the possible future death of the older Zinnia from his prior knowledge, suggesting that events in this world may diverge from the fate he remembers.
• Cultural isolation: The Meteor People’s limited contact with the outside world makes Milotic’s abilities and Xia Chen’s knowledge seem almost unbelievable, creating both humor and genuine cultural shock.

Character Interactions

• Zinnia watches the battle with Uncle Jinya and is startled when he admits that Milotic may pose a serious threat.
• Xia Chen and Milotic coordinate closely, matching commands and adapting instantly to Garchomp’s attacks.
• Zinnia and Garchomp fight as a tightly bonded pair, while Xia Chen relies on calculated tactical commands and Milotic’s patience.
• After the battle, Xia Chen helps treat both Pokémon, creating a cooperative atmosphere despite the earlier rivalry.
• Xia Chen initially mistakes the older sister for Zinnia, then awkwardly meets the real young Zinnia. Their exchange quickly becomes playful and competitive.
• Alicia brings Xia Chen, both sisters, and the historical legacy of Rayquaza together in the shrine, where their conversation shifts from a local battle to the larger mysteries of Mega Evolution and Hoenn’s future.

Chapter Summary: “Key Stone Deposits Beneath Meteor Falls!”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen stays overnight in Meteor Village after battling Zinnia and learning about the Meteor People, Mega Rayquaza, and their traditions from Granny Alicia.
• While exploring the village, Xia Chen introduces his Pokémon to Zinnia and Little Zinnia. The sisters’ unfamiliarity with modern Pokémon highlights how isolated the Meteor People remain.
• Xia Chen tells the sisters stories about his travels through other regions. His tales deeply affect them, especially Little Zinnia, who begins longing to see the outside world.
• That night, Little Zinnia confides in Zinnia that she wants to travel. She even wishes the prophesied meteorite would fall sooner so Zinnia could escape her restrictive role as successor. Zinnia reprimands her for being selfish, though she privately shares the same longing for freedom.
• The next morning, Xia Chen and Little Zinnia travel to Meteor Cave. After being tricked into falling into a Trapinch pit, Xia Chen uses Psychic powers to float out, then jokingly pretends he can teach Little Zinnia the ability.
• Sylveon senses that something important is hidden near Meteor Falls. Xia Chen and Zinnia question Trapinch after Trapinch, gradually moving toward the falls.
• A Trapinch finally confirms that it once encountered a glowing, colorful stone underground. After being bribed with Pokéblocks, it leads them to a pond near Meteor Falls.
• Trapinch retrieves a colorful stone from underground, which Xia Chen recognizes as a Key Stone, an essential item for Mega Evolution.
• Koraidon digs beneath the area and uncovers several more Key Stones, revealing that a massive underground deposit may contain nearly a thousand of them.
• Xia Chen gives Little Zinnia one Key Stone as a meaningful gift, telling her that it will one day shine in her hands.
• Meanwhile, Team Magma, led by Executive Courtney, secretly tunnels toward Meteor Falls. Scientist Cozmo confirms that the meteorite containing the power to awaken Groudon lies beneath the falls.
• Courtney reaches the cave entrance but discovers that someone has already arrived there, raising the possibility that Team Aqua has interfered.

2. Character Developments

• Xia Chen becomes more emotionally connected to the Zinnia sisters and acts as both entertainer and mentor. He remains playful and mischievous, teasing Little Zinnia repeatedly, but also shows responsibility by refusing to let her stay overnight in the wilderness.
• Zinnia is portrayed as disciplined and dutiful but increasingly conscious of the restrictions imposed by her role as successor. Xia Chen’s stories awaken her own desire to experience the wider world.
• Little Zinnia grows more openly fascinated by travel and modern life. Her mischievous personality remains strong, but her jokes conceal genuine frustration with her confinement and concern for her sister.
• Sylveon demonstrates mysterious instincts connected to Meteor Cave, correctly guiding Xia Chen toward the Key Stone deposit.
• Koraidon reveals its overwhelming strength by excavating multiple Key Stones and potentially a huge underground ore source.
• Courtney is established as cautious, calculating, and ruthless. Despite being close to achieving Team Magma’s objective, she maintains defensive precautions and suspects rival interference.
• Trapinch serves as both comic relief and an unexpectedly useful guide, trading information and labor for Pokéblocks.

3. Significant Themes

• Tradition versus modernization: Meteor Village’s isolation preserves its culture but deprives its people of technology, communication, and freedom.
• The desire for freedom: Zinnia and Little Zinnia are drawn to Xia Chen’s stories because they represent possibilities beyond their inherited duties.
• Friendship and cultural exchange: Xia Chen introduces the sisters to modern Pokémon knowledge, travel, cooking, and technology, while they guide him through their homeland.
• Discovery and historical change: The Key Stone deposit may usher in a new era of Mega Evolution and alter the balance of power throughout the Pokémon world.
• Responsibility and restraint: Xia Chen is excited by the discovery but considers the consequences of exploiting the deposit or destabilizing the ancient cave.
• Humor and trust: Xia Chen’s repeated tricks, Pokéblock bargains, and playful interactions with Zinnia and Trapinch create camaraderie while gradually building trust.

4. Character Interactions

• Xia Chen bonds with the sisters through conversation, storytelling, teasing, and food. His cooking wins them over, while his travel stories inspire their dreams.
• Little Zinnia playfully pranks Xia Chen by failing to warn him about the Trapinch pit, but he gets revenge by repeatedly pretending he can teach her special abilities.
• Zinnia acts as Xia Chen’s local guide, though she also enjoys teasing him. Their relationship becomes increasingly friendly and relaxed.
• The sisters share an intimate nighttime conversation in which Little Zinnia voices both their desire for freedom and the burden of Zinnia’s succession.
• Xia Chen and Trapinch form a humorous transactional partnership based on Pokéblocks. Trapinch guides him to the Key Stones, while Xia Chen rewards it generously.
• Xia Chen gives Little Zinnia a Key Stone, turning the discovery into a personal promise and symbol of her future.
• Courtney commands her subordinates and coerces Cozmo into assisting Team Magma, showing the unequal and exploitative nature of their relationship.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Team Magma secretly excavates a tunnel beneath Meteor Falls to reach a powerful meteorite, hoping to use its energy to reactivate Mt. Chimney and awaken Groudon.
• After Swellow reports that outsiders are excavating the same area, Courtney suspects a leak but concludes the discovery was probably coincidental. She organizes a diversion while another Team Magma unit tunnels toward Koraidon.
• Xia Chen and the Meteor Village group detect the surveillance and prepare defenses. His Pokémon are strategically hidden around the excavation site, while Koraidon continues digging for Key Stone ore.
• Team Magma emerges and pretends to be a scientific expedition. Their leader challenges Xia Chen to a Pokémon battle while secretly sending Aggron and other members underground.
• Xia Chen has Little Zinnia battle in his place. Her Salamence easily defeats Team Magma’s opponent, shocking the organization and giving Zinnia confidence.
• Courtney orders Team Magma to capture Xia Chen and the others, but the underground team is suddenly blasted into the air by Koraidon.
• Koraidon appears in its full Legendary form and immobilizes the entire Team Magma group with its overwhelming Domain. Courtney realizes that Xia Chen is the famed Trainer rumored to have captured a Legendary Pokémon.
• Xia Chen spares Courtney and the others, confiscates their Poké Balls, and questions Zinnia about Meteor Village’s punishment for thieves.
• Professor Cozmo reveals Team Magma’s true plan: use the meteorite to trigger Mt. Chimney’s eruption and awaken Groudon.

2. Character Developments

• Courtney demonstrates caution and tactical intelligence by using deception, a staged negotiation, and a diversion rather than immediately attacking the Meteor People. However, Koraidon’s power causes her to question Team Magma’s central belief that Groudon can be controlled.
• Xia Chen remains calm and strategically prepared. He anticipates Team Magma’s ambush, protects Zinnia, and deliberately avoids using excessive force because she is present. His confidence in Koraidon and his Pokémon is fully justified.
• Little Zinnia begins as an inexperienced and sheltered girl fascinated by the idea of encountering “bad people.” After Xia Chen encourages her, she wins her first serious battle and becomes more confident, though she still recoils from actually carrying out brutal punishment.
• Koraidon shifts from appearing like a harmless mount and companion to revealing its true status as an immensely powerful Legendary Pokémon. Its presence profoundly impresses Zinnia and terrifies Courtney.
• Professor Cozmo remains emotionally overwhelmed by his captivity but finally provides crucial information about Team Magma’s objective.

3. Significant Themes

• The danger of trying to control forces beyond human understanding: Courtney’s fear of Koraidon makes her reconsider whether Groudon—an even greater Legendary Pokémon—can truly be controlled.
• Appearance versus reality: Team Magma disguises itself as a scientific group, Koraidon hides its true power in ordinary life, and Courtney uses a helpless, tearful persona to manipulate others.
• Power and restraint: Xia Chen possesses overwhelming strength but chooses measured action, sparing enemies and limiting violence because of the circumstances.
• Inexperience confronting reality: Zinnia’s romanticized view of villains and punishment is challenged by a real confrontation, forcing her to mature.
• Deception and strategy: Both sides rely on stalling, disguises, surveillance, and ambushes, but Xia Chen’s preparation and superior strength render Team Magma’s tactics ineffective.

4. Character Interactions

• Courtney interrogates Cozmo and tests Team Magma members for signs of betrayal, while Cozmo tearfully complains about his mistreatment.
• Sylveon warns Xia Chen about the spying Swellow, and Xia Chen reassures her that his hidden Pokémon and preparations are sufficient.
• Xia Chen protects and encourages Zinnia, assigning her the battle and praising her after she wins.
• Team Magma attempts to deceive Xia Chen through a false scientific identity and a formal battle challenge, but he recognizes their stalling tactic.
• Courtney orders her forces to attack, only to be overwhelmed by Koraidon’s Domain.
• Xia Chen and Zinnia discuss how to punish the captured thieves, frightening Courtney before Cozmo exposes Team Magma’s plan.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen and Zinnia encounter Team Magma members beneath Meteor Falls, where the villains are attempting to obtain the meteorite and awaken Groudon to create a “new world.”
• Xia Chen mocks the group’s fanatical beliefs and defeats their resistance. The captured Team Magma members are taken back to Meteor Village by the Dragon Patrol.
• Rather than turn Courtney over to the village, Xia Chen has a private conversation with her. He offers her a chance to abandon her criminal identity and begin again under her real name, Christina.
• Christina accepts Xia Chen’s offer and receives one of Gholdengo’s coins, returning to Team Magma as a potential informant while continuing to operate under the name Courtney.
• Xia Chen transports the massive meteorite back to Meteor Village. He and Grandma Alicia discuss its connection to Rayquaza’s ancient Mega Evolution and the prophecy of a future meteor impact.
• Alicia argues that Xia Chen should accept responsibility for protecting the meteorite as a successor, since he would not ignore the planet if the prophecy came true.
• To prevent Team Magma and Team Aqua from targeting the village, Xia Chen and Alicia decide to remove and divide the meteorite’s Key Stones. Koraidon carefully extracts 1,135 Key Stones, which are split between Xia Chen and the Meteor People.
• Zinnia struggles with whether she is ready to leave the village and travel. After her Salamence encourages her in its own way, she finally tells Alicia that she wants to go.
• Elder Zinnia proposes that Little Zinnia temporarily travel with Xia Chen. Alicia agrees after questioning whether Zinnia is prepared, and Xia Chen accepts responsibility for looking after her until he leaves Hoenn.

2. Character Developments

• Xia Chen continues to display confidence, strength, and a willingness to confront foolishness directly, but he also shows increasing responsibility toward Hoenn and the Meteor People. He recognizes that he cannot ignore a planetary catastrophe simply because it is not technically his duty.
• Christina/Courtney receives the possibility of redemption. Xia Chen separates her true identity from the criminal persona she has used for nearly a decade, giving her hope of eventually escaping Team Magma and returning to a normal life.
• Grandma Alicia reveals herself as a perceptive mentor who sees Xia Chen as more than an outsider. She pushes him to acknowledge the responsibilities that accompany his power and abilities.
• Zinnia matures emotionally, realizing that wanting to travel is not the same as being fully prepared for independence. Her hesitation reflects her sense of responsibility rather than cowardice.
• Elder Zinnia acts protectively toward her younger sister while trusting Xia Chen’s character and capabilities enough to place Little Zinnia in his care.
• Little Zinnia is given the opportunity to experience the outside world safely, marking the beginning of her growth beyond the sheltered Meteor Village.

3. Significant Themes

• Redemption and identity: Christina is offered a chance to let “Courtney” die symbolically and reclaim the person she was before crime defined her.
• Responsibility accompanying power: Xia Chen is forced to consider whether possessing great strength means he must protect the world, even when he did not ask for that role.
• The danger of fanaticism: Team Magma’s blind devotion to Maxie is contrasted with rational responsibility and concern for the consequences of awakening Groudon.
• Hope versus resignation: Christina’s choice to accept Xia Chen’s help demonstrates that people trapped in darkness may still strive toward a better future when offered genuine assistance.
• Growth through travel: Zinnia’s desire to leave the village represents a transition from dependence to independence, while Xia Chen’s guardianship provides a controlled introduction to the wider world.
• Protecting the future: The meteorite and prophecy emphasize the chapter’s central idea that present choices must account for the survival of the planet and future generations.

4. Character Interactions

• Xia Chen ridicules and confronts Team Magma’s supporters, using their comparison to his Legendary Pokémon as an excuse to physically silence one particularly arrogant member.
• His conversation with Courtney is notably calm and compassionate. Instead of condemning her past, he offers her a practical path toward a new identity and future.
• Xia Chen and Alicia debate who should protect the meteorite, with Alicia persuading him that responsibility belongs to whoever would act when disaster arrives.
• Koraidon assists Xia Chen by extracting the Key Stones, highlighting the Pokémon’s strength and precise control.
• Zinnia interacts tenderly with Salamence while struggling over whether to travel, and Salamence’s gesture helps encourage her.
• Elder Zinnia and Alicia discuss Little Zinnia’s readiness, while Xia Chen accepts the role of temporary guardian. The chapter ends with him preparing to care for another young companion as his journey becomes more complicated.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zinnia leaves Meteor Village with Xia Chen to begin traveling abroad. Her family and friends give her emotional farewells and heartfelt warnings, while she departs riding Salamence.
• Xia Chen and Zinnia travel to Rustboro City. Zinnia’s constant questions contrast with Xia Chen’s initially reluctant but increasingly fond attitude toward her.
• Upon arriving, Xia Chen teaches Zinnia that cities regulate Pokémon flight and that travelers must respect social rules.
• At the Hoenn League Trainer Service Center, Zinnia cannot provide standard identification or Pokémon documents because Meteor Village is isolated from modern society.
• Xia Chen contacts Devon Corporation steward Kuroda, whose influence allows Zinnia to obtain the necessary paperwork and register officially as a Trainer despite being under the usual age requirement.
• Zinnia’s Salamence causes chaos during the registration process because the supposedly “small” starter Pokémon cannot fit inside the photography room. The resulting damage costs Xia Chen a substantial amount of money.
• Xia Chen exaggerates the financial consequences to teach Zinnia a lesson, then explains that the outside world operates according to numerous visible and invisible rules. Zinnia begins learning how to function independently in modern society.
• Xia Chen takes her shopping in Rustboro’s Pokémon department store, helping her become familiar with everyday technology, goods, and customs. They return to their hotel, prepared to begin their journey properly the following day.
• Meanwhile, Ceruledge experiences the final fading of Yao Chen’s consciousness. He inherits Yao Chen’s memories, alchemical knowledge, Battle Qi techniques, and combat legacy.
• Ceruledge considers the loss of powerful techniques that Yao Chen cannot pass on, then realizes Sliggoo may be a suitable successor.
• After observing Sliggoo endure intense Flamethrower training, Ceruledge asks whether she wants to fly, setting up the chapter’s cliffhanger.

Character Developments

• Zinnia grows from a sheltered village girl into someone beginning to understand modern society. Her enthusiasm and naivety remain, but the registration mishap teaches her that strength and good intentions do not excuse ignorance of social rules.
• Xia Chen becomes more openly protective and responsible toward Zinnia. Though he complains about her chatter and uses teasing to teach her, he genuinely enjoys her companionship and takes seriously his promise to prepare her for eventual independence.
• Ceruledge completes his emotional separation from Yao Chen. Although the memories of Yao Chen’s life—especially his painful relationship with Han Feng—are difficult to bear, Ceruledge accepts that he must continue alone while preserving Yao Chen’s most important knowledge.
• Sliggoo is shown to be exceptionally disciplined and resilient, willingly enduring painful training despite her vulnerable body. Her determination convinces Ceruledge that she may be worthy of inheriting advanced combat techniques.

Significant Themes

• Leaving home and growing up: Zinnia’s departure marks the beginning of her independence, while her adjustment to Rustboro represents the first step toward maturity.
• Freedom versus social restrictions: Travel offers excitement and possibility, but life outside Meteor Village requires obedience to laws, customs, and bureaucratic systems.
• Teaching through experience: Xia Chen uses the registration disaster to give Zinnia a memorable lesson about responsibility and adaptation.
• Inheritance and legacy: Yao Chen’s fading consciousness leaves Ceruledge with knowledge and techniques, raising the question of who should carry on a warrior’s legacy.
• Pain, memory, and acceptance: Ceruledge struggles with traumatic memories but ultimately accepts the loss of Yao Chen and prepares to forge his own path.
• Potential beyond appearances: Sliggoo’s frail, unconventional form contrasts with her extraordinary endurance, suggesting that she may be capable of mastering techniques normally associated with human or humanoid warriors.

Character Interactions

• Zinnia shares an affectionate farewell with her family, friends, and Little Blue, emphasizing the emotional cost of leaving home.
• Her nonstop questions frustrate Xia Chen, but their banter reveals their growing familiarity and mutual affection.
• Kuroda and Devon Corporation demonstrate their strong influence by rapidly solving Zinnia’s bureaucratic problems.
• Zinnia’s interaction with the receptionist becomes comedic when Salamence emerges from its Poké Ball and wrecks the registration room.
• Xia Chen first frightens Zinnia by implying that her mistake has cost them months of living expenses, then reassures and instructs her.
• Ceruledge observes Sliggoo’s harsh training and recognizes qualities in her that remind him of his younger self. His question about whether she wants to fly marks the beginning of a possible mentor-student relationship.

Summary

This excerpt is an announcement rather than a narrative chapter. The author states that a bonus chapter has been released in an “Eevee group” and asks readers not to disclose or report it. The author also warns that the material is intended only for adult readers and advises anyone uncomfortable with explicit content not to access it. They add that more conventional bonus chapters will be written later for publication on Qidian.

• Plot/events: No story events occur; the passage only announces bonus content.
• Character development: None.
• Themes: Exclusivity, secrecy, adult-oriented content, and the distinction between private bonus material and publicly publishable chapters.
• Character interactions: No fictional character interactions are shown.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen and Zinnia travel through southeastern Petalburg Woods toward Sootopolis City for the upcoming Pokémon Contest. Because Koraidon can greatly accelerate their journey, Xia Chen takes a relaxed approach and enjoys traveling with Zinnia.
• The extreme late-summer heat makes both humans and Pokémon uncomfortable. They decide to rest and have lunch near a lake after Rotom detects it ahead.
• Zoroark scouts the area in disguise and discovers a powerful Trainer camping by the lake. Xia Chen identifies him as Norman, the Gym Leader of Petalburg City, whose team includes a particularly strong Slaking.
• While Zinnia fetches water, a Crawdaunt attacks from the lake. Norman’s Swellow notices the danger, while Xia Chen’s Salamence ultimately blocks the attack and protects Zinnia.
• Xia Chen and Zinnia thank Norman and Swellow. Norman praises Zinnia’s courage and predicts that she will become an exceptional Trainer.
• Xia Chen invites Norman and his Pokémon to share lunch. During their conversation, Norman reveals his dislike of Pokémon Contests, viewing them as flashy and impractical entertainment.
• Norman angrily criticizes the person who created Pokémon Contests, struggling to remember the name. Xia Chen reminds him that the creator was “Xia Chen,” causing an extremely awkward realization when Norman understands he has been insulting the person sitting beside him.
• Xia Chen responds graciously rather than mocking Norman, and Zinnia’s accidental declaration that she hates Fairy types—immediately protested by Sylveon and Gardevoir—helps break the tension.
• The group shares a meal, rests through the hottest part of the afternoon, and cools off in the lake. The peaceful scene allows Norman and Xia Chen to speak more honestly.
• Norman apologizes for his earlier criticism but admits he still cannot approve of Pokémon Contests or his son pursuing them. Xia Chen accepts this and hopes Norman will reconsider after watching the upcoming Contest.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen: Demonstrates caution, leadership, hospitality, and emotional maturity. He uses the encounter to teach Zinnia wilderness awareness, protects her during the Crawdaunt attack, and handles Norman’s insult with patience. He also reveals that he wants Pokémon Contests to gain legitimacy and social acceptance, not merely personal fame.
• Zinnia: Remains energetic and enthusiastic despite the difficult heat and the dangers of travel. She shows bravery during the Crawdaunt incident and continues forming strong bonds with Pokémon. Her playful behavior at the lake highlights her innocence and growing confidence as a Trainer.
• Norman: Is introduced as powerful, vigilant, and traditional. Though initially judgmental of Xia Chen’s traveling style and Pokémon Contests, he is also kind-hearted, quickly concerned for Zinnia’s safety, and capable of admitting when he has gone too far. His discomfort after insulting Xia Chen reveals a more vulnerable, socially awkward side.
• Zoroark, Swellow, and Salamence: Zoroark proves highly effective at scouting through Illusion. Swellow shows alertness and protective instincts by monitoring Zinnia. Salamence’s intervention displays Xia Chen’s team’s exceptional power.
• The Pokémon teams: Their contrasting personalities are emphasized: Norman’s Slaking is lazy and food-motivated, Chansey is diligent and protective, while Xia Chen’s Pokémon actively support cooking, travel, and recreation.

Significant Themes

• Tradition versus innovation: Norman represents the established battle-focused tradition, while Xia Chen champions Pokémon Contests as a legitimate new path for Trainers and Pokémon.
• Prejudice and understanding: Norman’s dislike of Contests comes from unfamiliarity and deeply held assumptions. Xia Chen recognizes that genuine exposure may change his view more effectively than argument.
• Actions versus reputation: Norman initially judges Xia Chen as an unknown young traveler, while Xia Chen’s conduct—protecting Zinnia, cooking well, and treating him kindly—reveals his true character.
• Family and mentorship: Norman’s concern for Zinnia reflects his fatherly instincts, while Xia Chen deliberately educates and looks after her as a younger traveling companion.
• Humor easing conflict: The accidental insult, Zinnia’s anti-Fairy comment, and the shared meal transform a potentially hostile encounter into a friendly one.
• The restorative power of food and leisure: Eating together and relaxing in the lake dissolve tension, allowing the characters to connect beyond their ideological disagreement.

Important Character Interactions

• Xia Chen and Zinnia: Their sibling-like relationship is shown through Xia Chen’s protective guidance and Zinnia’s carefree trust in him.
• Xia Chen and Norman: They begin as strangers, become temporary allies after the Crawdaunt attack, and develop mutual respect despite disagreeing about Pokémon Contests.
• Norman and Zinnia: Norman is immediately protective of her and encourages her future as a Trainer, displaying his softer paternal side.
• Norman and Xia Chen’s Pokémon: Norman recognizes the extraordinary strength of Xia Chen’s team, including Koraidon, and realizes that Xia Chen is far more significant than he initially appeared.
• The Pokémon among themselves: The Pokémon’s cooperation during the meal and their joyful play in the lake mirror the humans’ gradual movement from suspicion and awkwardness toward friendship.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen and Zinnia resume traveling from the nameless lake, joined by Norman after Xia Chen persuades him that spending time with his son, Ruby, is more important than continuing his solitary training journey.
• Norman decides to travel quickly to Sootopolis City for the upcoming World Pokémon Contest. Along the way, he and Xia Chen become friends while discussing family, parenting, and Pokémon Contests.
• Norman reveals that he and Mitsuko are expecting another child. He also admits that his demanding career as a Gym Leader kept him from spending enough time with Ruby, possibly contributing to Ruby’s rebelliousness.
• The group camps overnight in Petalburg Woods. Milotic provides drinking water and uses Icy Wind to cool the campsite. Norman’s Chansey helps with cooking.
• Norman mentions the region’s unusually extreme heat. Xia Chen suspects it may be connected to Groudon’s possible awakening and Primal Groudon’s weather influence.
• Xia Chen secretly contacts Courtney to ask about Team Magma, Team Aqua, and the legendary Groudon and Kyogre. He learns that Team Magma began several important missions a month earlier, but Courtney does not know whether they succeeded or whether they are connected to the abnormal weather.
• Xia Chen worries that Groudon and Kyogre may awaken naturally, creating a threat far beyond ordinary criminal organizations. He considers whether he should leave Hoenn rather than become involved.
• Sylveon follows Xia Chen, comforts him, and challenges him to confront his true feelings. She explains that legendary Pokémon around the world are becoming increasingly active and that their awakenings may be inevitable.
• Sylveon reminds Xia Chen that he must choose whether to intervene, but promises to remain by his side regardless. Her words lead Xia Chen to accept that responsibility may require him to face danger rather than avoid it.
• The next morning, Xia Chen feels renewed and resolves to help protect the people and Pokémon he cares about. The group leaves Petalburg Woods and takes refuge from the heat at a crowded Pokémon Center on Route 117.
• At the Pokémon Center, another Sylveon unexpectedly rushes toward Xia Chen. Its trainer catches up and apologizes, only to recognize him as the famous “Senior Xia Chen,” ending the chapter on a meeting with an unknown new character.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen: Moves from uncertainty and self-preservation toward accepting personal responsibility. He realizes that he cannot remain passive if people he cares about are threatened, even by legendary-level dangers.
• Sylveon: Demonstrates unusual wisdom, emotional insight, and awareness of the broader cycle of legendary Pokémon awakenings. She acts as Xia Chen’s emotional anchor and moral guide, while also revealing a moment of unexplained sadness that hints at a deeper past.
• Norman: Shows a softer, more family-oriented side. Though normally focused on training, he acknowledges that he neglected Ruby and begins treating Xia Chen as a trusted friend. His excitement about his unborn child contrasts with his regret over his relationship with Ruby.
• Zinnia: Remains a cheerful companion and notices Xia Chen’s improved mood the next morning.
• Courtney: Provides useful information about Team Magma’s secret operations but is herself unaware of the full situation surrounding Groudon and the abnormal weather.
• The new Sylveon’s trainer: Is introduced as a likely admirer or acquaintance of Xia Chen, recognizing him from videos and establishing the next chapter’s encounter.

Significant Themes

• Responsibility versus self-preservation: Xia Chen must decide whether to retreat from an impending legendary crisis or accept the duty of standing against it.
• The inevitability of change: Sylveon suggests that legendary Pokémon will continue returning to the world, regardless of whether Xia Chen intervenes.
• Family and parental responsibility: Norman’s regrets about Ruby and anticipation of his second child highlight the importance of being present for one’s family.
• Friendship formed through shared vulnerability: Personal conversations about family allow Xia Chen and Norman to move rapidly from strangers to friends.
• The limits of human knowledge: Neither Team Magma nor Xia Chen fully understands the cause of the extreme weather, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding legendary forces.
• Hidden depth beneath familiar characters: Sylveon’s insight and melancholy suggest that she may know more about legendary awakenings than she has previously revealed.

Important Character Interactions

• Xia Chen persuades Norman to prioritize Ruby and the Pokémon Contest, leading Norman to join the journey.
• Xia Chen and Norman bond over family, marriage, parenting, and their contrasting approaches to travel and strength.
• Norman’s Pokémon become integrated into the traveling group, with Chansey assisting in camp life and Milotic continuing to support everyone.
• Xia Chen consults Courtney about Team Magma’s plans and the possibility of Groudon’s awakening.
• Sylveon overhears Xia Chen’s concerns, comforts him physically, and gives him the perspective needed to accept his responsibility.
• Zinnia and Norman both notice Xia Chen’s renewed happiness the following morning.
• The chapter ends when a stranger’s Sylveon approaches Xia Chen affectionately, prompting its trainer to recognize and address him.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen meets Serena in Hoenn. She recognizes him from a livestream he made in Kalos, where he encouraged her to pursue her dream of becoming a Pokémon Coordinator.
• Serena reveals that she has been coordinating for one year and has already won five Contest Ribbons, qualifying for the upcoming Grand Festival in Sootopolis City.
• Serena formally meets Xia Chen’s companions, Norman and Zinnia, while their Pokémon also become acquainted. Xia Chen’s Sylveon enthusiastically befriends and “pets” Serena’s Sylveon.
• Because Serena is traveling to the same destination, Xia Chen invites her to join the group. Their party expands to Xia Chen, Zinnia, Norman, Serena, and their Pokémon.
• With the Grand Festival approaching and the weather unbearably hot, the group rents a car and travels from the Pokémon Center near Petalburg Woods to Mauville City.
• In Mauville, they discover that every public flight to Sootopolis City is sold out, largely because of the Grand Festival and the extreme heat driving tourists toward Sootopolis’s cooler climate.
• Norman decides to ask Wattson for help. While Norman visits Mauville Gym and drinks with Wattson, Xia Chen, Serena, and Zinnia explore the city.
• The three visit Mauville’s famous food court, sample themed snacks, eat the city’s renowned mixed noodles, and spend the evening in Central Park beneath Angular Tower.
• Serena suggests challenging Angular Tower, but Xia Chen declines because the group must reach Sootopolis and Zinnia lacks enough Pokémon for the tower’s usual three-on-three battles.
• Norman returns drunk but successfully arranges the use of Wattson’s private plane. The next morning, the group departs Mauville in Wattson’s lavish, Electric-type-themed aircraft and arrives safely in Sootopolis City.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen is delighted to meet Serena, whom he admired in his previous life, but he treats her primarily as a fellow traveler and Coordinator. He continues acting as a dependable caretaker toward Zinnia and tries to help repair Norman’s relationship with Ruby.
• Serena is portrayed as confident, hardworking, and sincere. She openly credits Xia Chen’s earlier encouragement for giving her the courage to pursue Coordinating despite her mother’s expectations. Her admiration for Xia Chen is evident, and she appears increasingly comfortable and interested around him.
• Zinnia becomes protective and insecure when Serena joins the group, fearing that Serena might replace her as Xia Chen’s closest source of support. Her mood improves when Xia Chen reassures and includes her. She also displays her usual confidence and eagerness to battle.
• Norman is forced to reflect on his conflict with Ruby after hearing Serena describe her own journey. He begins questioning whether his insistence on strength caused him to ignore his son’s dream. Although he remains stubborn, he considers using the Grand Festival to understand Ruby better.
• Serena’s Pokémon receive brief characterization: Delphox is calm and sociable, Meowstic is aloof and wary, and Pancham is energetic, mischievous, and highly outgoing.
• Xia Chen’s Sylveon acts as a friendly senior figure to Serena’s Sylveon, creating a playful Pokémon interaction.

Significant Themes

• Pursuing one’s dreams: Serena’s success and Ruby’s hidden Contest career emphasize the importance of following personal aspirations rather than conforming to family expectations.
• Parental understanding and conflict: Norman’s struggle with Ruby’s choices forms an important emotional subplot. Serena’s story gives Norman a new perspective on how parental pressure can hinder a child.
• Support and mentorship: Xia Chen’s livestream encouragement had a lasting effect on Serena, demonstrating how seemingly small acts of support can change someone’s life.
• Found family and companionship: The expanding travel group provides emotional security for Zinnia and creates new bonds among humans and Pokémon.
• Everyday travel and cultural exploration: The chapter focuses on food, city life, transportation, and casual sightseeing, presenting Mauville as a lively destination rather than merely a battle location.
• Subtle romantic tension: Serena’s admiration for Xia Chen and her reactions to him holding Zinnia’s hand suggest growing interest, though the relationship remains understated.

Important Character Interactions

• Serena excitedly greets Xia Chen and reminds him of their previous livestream interaction.
• Xia Chen introduces Serena to Norman and Zinnia, officially bringing her into the traveling party.
• Serena’s Sylveon timidly approaches Xia Chen’s Sylveon, who affectionately plays with and pets her.
• Serena discusses her Contest achievements and thanks Xia Chen for encouraging her, prompting Norman to think about Ruby.
• Serena, Zinnia, and Xia Chen bond while sampling Mauville’s food and touring Central Park.
• Serena shows concern about reaching the Grand Festival, while Xia Chen reassures her that they will find another route.
• Xia Chen jokingly invents a story about Norman drunkenly mistaking him for Ruby and expressing pride in him, hoping to soften Norman’s feelings toward his son.
• Norman’s relationship with Wattson ultimately provides the group with a private plane, allowing everyone to reach Sootopolis on time.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen, Serena, Norman, and Zinnia arrive in Sootopolis City during a heavy rainstorm for the upcoming World Grand Festival. Xia reflects on their journey and how meeting Norman, Serena, and Zinnia’s Noibat may have been “fated.”
• They stay in President Stone’s luxury seaside villa because Sootopolis hotels are fully booked. The villa is located in the modern district, near the crater containing the historic old city.
• The group visits Sootopolis Old City by Flying-type Pokémon. Xia rides Koraidon with Serena, while Norman and Zinnia use Swellow and Salamence.
• Koraidon deliberately creates awkward physical contact between Xia and Serena during the flight, embarrassing both of them and amusing himself.
• In the old city, Xia observes the volcanic lake, the ancient Tree of Life, the Awakening Temple, Sootopolis Gym, and the Sootopolis Star arena, which will host the Grand Festival.
• A promotional video for the Festival shows several familiar Coordinators, including Serena, Dawn, May, Lucia, Ayako, and Norman’s son Ruby. Norman is emotionally affected by seeing how happy and independent Ruby has become.
• Xia reunites with Valerie, who has become deeply involved in organizing the Grand Festival. She explains that the event will introduce the new Contest Battle format to the world.
• Valerie asks Xia to participate in the first official Contest Battle exhibition. His opponent will be Wallace, the powerful Sootopolis Gym Leader and former Champion, causing Xia considerable concern about the strength gap.
• Xia visits the Tree of Life with Serena and Zinnia, then returns to the villa and cooks an elaborate dinner for the group and their Pokémon.
• At sunset, Xia takes the Pokémon for a walk and realizes that Sliggoo and Ceruledge were left behind at home. During a video call, he discovers that Sliggoo has unexpectedly gained the ability to fly.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen remains thoughtful and observant, speculating about Sootopolis’s ancient history and the possible connection between the meteorite, Groudon, Kyogre, and Primal Reversion. He also shows growing responsibility toward his friends and Pokémon.
• Serena displays increasing comfort and affection around Xia. She is embarrassed during their flight together but secretly seems disappointed when she cannot ride with him again. Her admiration for Xia is reinforced by her emotional reaction to eating his cooking and recalling that she has been his fan for years.
• Norman struggles with mixed feelings about Ruby’s independence. Seeing Ruby smiling in the Festival advertisement makes him proud but also reminds him that his son no longer depends on him as much.
• Valerie has become more confident and successful in her Pokémon Contest career. However, she feels the emotional distance growing between herself and Xia, who remains an important figure because he helped her during Coumarine City’s crisis.
• Zinnia continues to act energetically and innocently, exploring Sootopolis with Serena and showing no awareness of the romantic tension surrounding Xia and Serena.
• Koraidon is shown to be mischievous and perceptive, intentionally teasing Xia and Serena while exploiting Xia’s fondness for spicy food to avoid punishment.
• Sliggoo undergoes an unexpected development by acquiring the ability to fly, setting up a likely future mystery or evolution-related subplot.

Significant Themes

• Fate and interconnectedness: Xia reflects on how earlier decisions led to meaningful encounters and suggests that events may happen for the best.
• Tradition and modernity: Sootopolis combines ancient landmarks and legends with modern technology, tourism, and global competitions.
• Performance versus strength: The new Contest Battle format seeks to unite the visual elegance of Pokémon Contests with the excitement and competitiveness of traditional battles.
• Growing independence: Ruby’s appearance highlights the difficulty parents can experience when their children become self-reliant.
• Emotional distance and changing relationships: Valerie recognizes that Xia’s life is moving forward, while Serena’s increasingly obvious affection suggests a developing bond.
• Home and companionship: Xia’s cooking and the group’s shared dinner emphasize the warmth of their traveling family, while his concern for Sliggoo and Ceruledge shows his attachment to Pokémon left behind.
• Mystery and ancient power: The Tree of Life, the Awakening Temple, Groudon, Kyogre, and the possible Eternal Flower reinforce the chapter’s atmosphere of hidden history and legendary forces.

Character Interactions

• Xia and Serena share an awkward but intimate flight on Koraidon, whose intentional mishandling of the ride brings them physically close.
• Norman notices the tension between Xia and Serena and gives Xia a knowing look, while Xia avoids explaining himself.
• Valerie and Xia reconnect over tea. Their conversation mixes professional discussion, playful teasing, and unresolved emotional undertones.
• Valerie challenges Xia’s concerns about fighting Wallace, especially after Xia implies that he would rather face her. Though mock-offended, she is pleased when he says he would prefer losing to her.
• Xia and Valerie discuss the structure of Contest Battles: contestants use stylish attacks and counters within a time limit while reducing each other’s appeal points, with victory determined by knockout or remaining points.
• Xia, Serena, and Zinnia explore the Tree of Life together, and Xia later prepares dinner for them and the Pokémon.
• Xia contacts Ceruledge and Sliggoo, leading to the chapter’s final surprise: Sliggoo is revealed to be floating through the air, prompting Drakloak to excitedly proclaim that Sliggoo can fly too.

Chapter Summary: “Do You Think Officer Jenny Would Believe Your Nonsense?”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xia Chen discovers that Sliggoo can fly, despite Sliggoo’s species and evolutionary line normally being incapable of flight.
• Ceruledge claims to have taught Sliggoo the technique, though he admits he has not fully mastered it himself and cannot yet teach it properly.
• Sliggoo explains that she can learn techniques but does not know how to teach them. Xia Chen’s joking plan to make all his Pokémon fly is abandoned.
• During a video call, Xia Chen notices that Ceruledge is behaving unusually emotionally and seems less independent and reserved than before. Ceruledge’s altered behavior is connected to his lingering identity crisis after inheriting Yao Chen’s consciousness and legacy.
• Norman tells Xia Chen that Wallace wants to meet him. Xia Chen agrees to visit Sootopolis Gym the following day.
• Xia Chen considers awakening Groudon and Kyogre deliberately so that their inevitable conflict can be controlled. Koraidon points out that, regardless of his intentions, such an act would look like terrorism to the authorities.
• Xia Chen decides to wait for Team Magma to make the first move instead, planning to notify Wallace and others when they act.
• Xia Chen visits Sootopolis Gym, admires its elegant aquatic design, and becomes pleased that his innovations—especially Beauty Pokéblocks—have helped make Pokémon such as Milotic more accessible.
• He meets Wallace inside a massive aquatic habitat called “Water World,” where Wallace raises and interacts with numerous Water-type Pokémon.
• After discussing the Grand Festival and an upcoming exhibition Contest Battle, Wallace challenges Xia Chen to a formal Pokémon battle first.
• Their public 3v3 match begins in Sootopolis Gym’s Water Field. Wallace sends out a two-star Gym-level Milotic, while Xia Chen chooses his Shiny Gardevoir.
• Wallace starts with Rain Dance, while Xia Chen orders Gardevoir to use Calm Mind. Wallace immediately follows with Hydro Pump, targeting Gardevoir while she is still boosting.

Character Developments

• Sliggoo demonstrates another extraordinary ability, showing that her unusual learning talent may extend to techniques normally impossible for her species.
• Ceruledge reveals increasing emotional instability and uncertainty about his identity. Though he possesses Yao Chen’s inherited consciousness and techniques, he feels incomplete without Yao Chen’s active presence.
• Xia Chen continues to act as an innovator and protector, but his willingness to consider waking Groudon and Kyogre exposes his tendency to pursue risky solutions for the sake of control. Koraidon’s criticism forces him to reconsider.
• Koraidon displays greater awareness and blunt common sense, challenging Xia Chen’s justifications instead of passively agreeing with him.
• Wallace is presented as both an artist and a powerful Trainer. He remains elegant and hospitable but is also eager to test Xia Chen in battle.
• Norman continues to struggle with Wallace and Juan’s attempts to draw him into Pokémon Contests, though he remains supportive of Xia Chen.

Significant Themes

• Intent versus consequences: Xia Chen believes deliberately awakening the Legendary Pokémon could make events safer, but Koraidon emphasizes that others will judge him by his actions rather than his intentions.
• Identity and inheritance: Ceruledge’s emotional changes reflect the difficulty of carrying another person’s consciousness, memories, and legacy while trying to establish an independent identity.
• Innovation changing society: Xia Chen recognizes that his developments have altered Pokémon culture, making previously elite Pokémon and Contest practices available to ordinary Trainers.
• Art and competition: Wallace treats battling and Pokémon Contests as forms of artistic expression, contrasting with Xia Chen’s more pragmatic, strategic outlook.
• Unusual growth and limitless potential: Sliggoo’s flight and learning abilities reinforce the chapter’s broader idea that Pokémon cannot always be limited by conventional expectations.

Character Interactions

• Xia Chen questions Sliggoo and Ceruledge about her ability to fly, revealing both Sliggoo’s remarkable talent and Ceruledge’s unusual behavior.
• Xia Chen and Koraidon debate whether awakening Groudon and Kyogre is justified. Koraidon’s “Officer Jenny” remark exposes the weakness in Xia Chen’s reasoning.
• Xia Chen exchanges polite but competitive dialogue with Wallace about the Grand Festival and their respective strength.
• Wallace’s hospitality contrasts with his confidence: he provides Xia Chen with refreshments and a tour-like experience before challenging him to battle.
• During the opening exchange of the match, Wallace establishes Rain Dance while Xia Chen uses Calm Mind, setting up a battle between Wallace’s aggressive momentum and Xia Chen’s strategic preparation.

Chapter 320 Summary

Plot Points and Events

• The battle between Xia Chen and Wallace begins in Sootopolis Gym’s Water Field under heavy Rainy Weather.
• Wallace’s Milotic uses a Rain-boosted Hydro Pump against Gardevoir. Gardevoir narrowly avoids it with Teleport, demonstrating Xia Chen’s precise timing and battle judgment.
• Milotic retreats into the water to exploit the field’s advantages. Gardevoir appears ready to use another Calm Mind, alarming Wallace because two boosts could make Milotic unable to compete.
• Wallace orders a second Hydro Pump, but Gardevoir reveals that she used Light Screen instead of Calm Mind. The barrier drastically reduces the special-attack damage, and Gardevoir withstands the Hydro Pump with ease.
• With Calm Mind and Light Screen active, Gardevoir launches Thunderbolt. The rain and Milotic’s Water typing amplify the attack, causing severe damage.
• Xia Chen orders a second Thunderbolt, but Wallace recalls Milotic and sends out a massive Swampert to absorb the attack.
• Aura reveals that Swampert is near Elite Four level in energy intensity and is one of Wallace’s second-string main-team Pokémon.
• Wallace gives Xia Chen a respectful warning about Swampert’s strength. Xia Chen refuses to surrender the initiative and decides to test Gardevoir’s destructive power against the stronger opponent.
• Xia Chen orders an Energy Ball, secretly signaling Gardevoir to enhance it with Emotional Energy. The attack is especially dangerous because Grass is Swampert’s only weakness and deals four times the normal damage.
• Rather than avoid the attack, Wallace commands Swampert to confront it directly. Swampert uses Waterfall, charging through the water with overwhelming physical force as Gardevoir prepares the fully charged Energy Ball.

Character Developments

• Gardevoir displays exceptional composure, tactical intelligence, and trust in Xia Chen. She successfully uses Teleport under extreme pressure, then conceals her true intention by using Light Screen instead of a second Calm Mind.
• Xia Chen demonstrates increasing confidence and strategic sophistication. He anticipates Wallace’s likely switch, recognizes Swampert as the natural counter, and willingly challenges a far stronger Pokémon rather than retreating.
• Wallace shows his experience and adaptability. He pressures Gardevoir with rapid attacks, recognizes her tactical deception, and makes a timely switch to Swampert. His warning to Xia Chen reflects both confidence and respect.
• Milotic is portrayed as elegant, disciplined, and powerful, but Gardevoir’s boosted Thunderbolt forces Wallace to withdraw her before she is defeated.
• Swampert is established as a major threat: exceptionally powerful, physically imposing, highly mobile in water, and confident enough to attack into its own four-times weakness.

Significant Themes

• Tactical deception and prediction: Both trainers attempt to anticipate the other’s plans, especially through the contrast between Calm Mind and Light Screen.
• Initiative versus caution: Wallace strategically retreats Milotic, while Xia Chen chooses to maintain pressure and refuses to give up momentum.
• Strength beyond numerical classifications: Swampert’s near-Elite Four energy level emphasizes that raw power is only one factor; physical ability, experience, and individual performance also determine battle strength.
• Respect between rivals: Wallace’s warning is not malicious but acknowledges Xia Chen as a serious opponent, while Xia Chen responds by accepting the challenge rather than being intimidated.
• Exploiting weaknesses without relying on them blindly: Xia Chen uses Gardevoir’s Electric and Grass advantages effectively, but the chapter also emphasizes that type advantages alone do not guarantee victory against a powerful opponent.

Character Interactions

• Wallace pressures Xia Chen through Milotic’s rapid Hydro Pumps, while Xia Chen counters with Gardevoir’s Teleport and Light Screen.
• Gardevoir and Xia Chen demonstrate close coordination through a coded pause in the Energy Ball command, allowing her to release an emotionally enhanced attack.
• Wallace and Xia Chen exchange mutual respect: Wallace openly warns him about Swampert, and Xia Chen answers by standing his ground and directly testing Gardevoir against Wallace’s powerful Pokémon.
• The chapter ends with Gardevoir’s enormous Energy Ball and Swampert’s Waterfall colliding course, setting up the next decisive exchange.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gardevoir and Wallace’s near-Elite Four-level Swampert begin their battle with simultaneous, high-risk attacks: Swampert uses a Rain-boosted Waterfall while Gardevoir charges an enormous Energy Ball, exploiting Swampert’s four-times Grass weakness.
• Xia Chen realizes Swampert is deliberately conserving strength so it can counter Gardevoir’s Teleport. Rather than flee immediately, he instructs Gardevoir to endure the attack and complete her Energy Ball.
• At the last possible moment, Gardevoir uses Teleport. She secretly creates a Double Team clone underwater while charging Energy Ball, then hides beneath it. Swampert follows her apparent position and suffers the full force of the Energy Ball’s explosion.
• Swampert survives with severe injuries and activates Torrent, greatly strengthening his Water-type attacks. Gardevoir, nearly out of energy, retreats toward the surface while Swampert pursues her with a potentially decisive Liquidation.
• Just as Swampert attacks, Gardevoir uses Magical Leaf. The move pierces the water and finishes Swampert, but Gardevoir is also knocked out by the Liquidation. Both Pokémon are declared unable to battle, making the score 1–1.
• Wallace praises the battle and reveals a stronger Pokémon: his Elite Four-level Gyarados. Its intimidating presence confirms that Wallace is now treating Xia Chen as a serious opponent.
• Xia Chen responds by sending out Drakloak. Both trainer and Pokémon become unusually focused as the next battle begins.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen demonstrates exceptional composure, tactical awareness, and precision under extreme pressure. His decision to keep Gardevoir in danger and his rapid use of a Double Team-and-Teleport strategy show advanced battlefield judgment.
• Gardevoir displays tremendous control and courage. She maximizes the power of Energy Ball without wasting energy, executes Xia Chen’s complex plan flawlessly, and manages to defeat a vastly stronger opponent despite her own limitations.
• Wallace shows both confidence and respect. He recognizes Xia Chen’s skill, responds quickly to Gardevoir’s tactics, and escalates by sending out Gyarados.
• Swampert is portrayed as extraordinarily powerful and resilient. Even after suffering a devastating super-effective attack, Torrent allows him to launch a final, nearly fatal assault.
• Drakloak abandons his usual playful attitude after sensing Xia Chen’s seriousness, signaling emotional growth and readiness to confront a much stronger opponent.
• Norman and Juan act as knowledgeable observers, analyzing the tactics and acknowledging Xia Chen’s unusual talent.

Significant Themes

• Strategy overcoming raw power: Gardevoir cannot win through strength alone, so Xia Chen relies on timing, deception, type advantage, and precise energy management.
• Risk and commitment: Both sides commit fully to their opening attacks, emphasizing that victory requires accepting danger rather than always choosing the safest option.
• Calmness under pressure: Xia Chen’s ability to think clearly during a seemingly unavoidable attack is presented as one of his greatest strengths.
• Respect between rivals: Wallace’s admiration grows after witnessing Xia Chen’s performance, transforming the match from a routine challenge into a contest between serious opponents.
• Limits and transcendence: Gardevoir’s victory over a near-Elite Four Pokémon challenges expectations about the gap between power levels, while Gyarados’s arrival reestablishes the enormous difficulty Xia Chen still faces.
• Trainer and Pokémon unity: Xia Chen’s mental state directly influences Drakloak, showing how closely connected their determination and emotions have become.

Character Interactions

• Xia Chen and Gardevoir operate with remarkable trust, allowing her to follow a complicated plan involving Double Team, Teleport, Energy Ball, and Magical Leaf.
• Wallace and Swampert coordinate closely, with Wallace recognizing the need to exploit Torrent and urging Swampert to end the fight immediately.
• Xia Chen and Wallace mirror each other as tacticians: Wallace presses with overwhelming force, while Xia Chen survives through prediction and deception.
• Norman and Juan discuss the battle from the stands, correctly identifying Gardevoir’s hidden Double Team strategy and praising Xia Chen’s composure.
• Wallace’s respectful comments after the draw mark a shift in his attitude toward Xia Chen.
• The chapter ends with Xia Chen and Drakloak facing Wallace’s Gyarados, setting up a confrontation between an emerging challenger and an Elite Four-level opponent.

Chapter Summary: “Milotic? No, This Is the God of Milotic!”

Key Plot Points and Events

• The battle between Xia Chen and Wallace reaches its final stage, with Wallace’s ace Gyarados facing Xia Chen’s Drakloak and Dreepy.
• Xia Chen begins with a coordinated strategy: Drakloak uses Thunderbolt to test Gyarados while Dreepy uses Dragon Dance to boost itself.
• Gyarados proves extraordinarily durable, taking Thunderbolt with almost no visible damage despite its fourfold Electric weakness.
• Drakloak avoids Gyarados’s Ice Fang with Phantom Force, but Gyarados counters with Hurricane, forcing Dreepy into a desperate evasive battle.
• Drakloak ambushes Gyarados with Phantom Force, but the attack causes minimal damage. Gyarados immediately retaliates with Aqua Tail, which Drakloak narrowly avoids through its synchronized senses with Xia Chen.
• Xia Chen uses Dreepy as a distraction. Dreepy charges Gyarados with a Dragon Claw enhanced by Dragon Dance while Drakloak lures Gyarados away.
• Gyarados pursues Drakloak with Waterfall. Drakloak uses Protect, holding back the attack long enough for Dreepy to land a powerful Dragon Claw on Gyarados’s face.
• Dreepy’s attack finally injures Gyarados, but Gyarados responds with a devastating Hurricane, knocking Dreepy out.
• While Dreepy distracts Gyarados, Drakloak sets up Will-O-Wisp, weakening Gyarados’s physical attacks.
• Gyarados attacks Drakloak with Ice Fang. Although Reflect further reduces the damage, the attack still defeats Drakloak.
• Before fainting, Drakloak lands a final Thunderbolt, earning Gyarados’s respect despite causing little damage.
• Xia Chen sends out his transformed, exceptionally powerful Milotic. Wallace is overwhelmed by its beauty and refers to it as almost a god among Milotic.
• The chapter ends with Milotic using Freeze-Dry against Gyarados’s Waterfall. Rather than being overwhelmed, Milotic remains completely still while Freeze-Dry freezes and pierces Gyarados’s abdomen, shocking the spectators.

Character Developments

• Xia Chen: Demonstrates excellent battle awareness and adaptive strategy. He recognizes that direct attacks cannot defeat Gyarados and instead relies on coordination, attrition, status effects, and carefully timed sacrifices.
• Drakloak: Shows remarkable courage and tactical skill despite being far weaker than Gyarados. Its synchronized communication with Xia Chen allows it to evade lethal attacks, protect Dreepy, set up Will-O-Wisp, and seriously contribute to weakening the ace opponent. Xia Chen promises to evolve it after the battle.
• Dreepy: Acts with exceptional loyalty and bravery. Despite its Gym-level physical strength, it willingly charges Gyarados and lands the key Dragon Claw that finally breaks through Gyarados’s defenses.
• Gyarados: Is established as an overwhelmingly powerful Elite Four-level ace with tremendous durability, speed, and offensive force. However, its anger and pride grow after being repeatedly tricked and injured by weaker opponents.
• Wallace: Remains calm and highly perceptive, adjusting his strategy to avoid repeating his earlier mistake with Swampert. He develops genuine admiration for Xia Chen’s Pokémon, especially the transformed Milotic.
• Milotic: Makes a dramatic entrance as a uniquely evolved and extraordinarily elegant Pokémon. Its first attack immediately demonstrates that its strength matches its appearance.

Significant Themes

• Coordination and trust: Xia Chen’s near-instant communication with Drakloak and the partnership between Drakloak and Dreepy allow weaker Pokémon to challenge a vastly stronger opponent.
• Strategy versus overwhelming power: The battle contrasts Gyarados’s raw strength with Xia Chen’s layered tactics—distraction, evasion, Protect, Reflect, Will-O-Wisp, and sacrifice plays.
• Courage and sacrifice: Dreepy knowingly risks itself to create an opening, while Drakloak endures overwhelming attacks to prepare the field for Milotic.
• Respect earned through battle: Gyarados initially treats the smaller Pokémon as insignificant, but Drakloak and Dreepy’s performance earns its recognition as worthy opposition.
• Beauty and power: Milotic’s elegance is not merely cosmetic; its astonishing Freeze-Dry attack reveals that its beauty is matched by extraordinary strength.
• Surpassing natural limits: Like Xia Chen’s uniquely evolved Floette, Milotic has transcended the normal boundaries of its species, becoming something far superior to an ordinary Milotic.

Character Interactions

• Xia Chen and Drakloak: Their synchronized senses and seamless cooperation demonstrate an unusually deep bond. Xia Chen trusts Drakloak to improvise, while Drakloak relies on his warnings to survive Gyarados’s attacks.
• Drakloak and Dreepy: They function as a coordinated pair, with Dreepy drawing Gyarados’s attention and Drakloak striking from unexpected angles.
• Wallace and Gyarados: Wallace understands Gyarados’s temperament and allows it to attack aggressively, but he also recognizes when tactical adjustments are necessary.
• Gyarados and the smaller dragons: Gyarados initially sees them as insignificant, yet their teamwork repeatedly frustrates and wounds it, provoking both fury and eventual respect.
• Wallace and Milotic: Wallace, a renowned admirer and master of elegant Water-types, is visibly captivated by Xia Chen’s Milotic and asks to spend time with it after the match.
• Xia Chen and Wallace: Their rivalry remains respectful. Wallace gives Xia Chen the initiative, praises his Pokémon, and eagerly accepts the challenge posed by Milotic’s entrance.