While Luke remained alone in the house, keeping watch over the empty space, Cynthia was engaged in intensive training with her two companions.
The 'Bull Training Club' was closed for the day, but that didn't deter Haunter. Somehow, the mischievous Pokémon managed to produce a wire and skillfully pick the lock.
Cynthia raised an eyebrow in amusement. "Is this really okay?"
"Jie jie~!" Haunter patted its chest and displayed a coach card that proclaimed its professionalism.
Cynthia chuckled softly. "As expected... it's just like Teacher Luke's style."
Cynthia's training methods were undoubtedly top-tier. Even within just an afternoon, they were bound to make a significant impact on the two Pokémon. This was also her way of showing gratitude towards Luke.
Observing the enthusiastic Haunter, Cynthia nodded and began, "Let's start by mastering some moves..."
A crimson light shimmered, and a Spiritomb emanating a chilly aura appeared. Haunter trembled in its presence.
Moves could be taught between Pokémon as well.
Cynthia had the idea of having Haunter learn how to use Shadow Ball from Spiritomb.
Of course, mastering such a move would not happen in a single afternoon. It would take at least half a year to become proficient and require appropriate resources for a Ghost Type Pokémon.
Yet Cynthia could impart the basic techniques of using Shadow Ball and guide Haunter on how to train for it. The rest would require Haunter's determination and resource investment.
"The cost of practicing Shadow Ball... about three to four hundred million," Cynthia murmured thoughtfully.
"It's probably fine to inform him then."
Spiritomb's crimson light intensified as it opened its fan-like appendage, and a cold aura began to emanate. Haunter shivered involuntarily.
In its eyes, the Dark Type Spiritomb appeared extremely ominous.
However, considering Luke's unwavering commitment to becoming a Trainer, Haunter took a deep breath, its resolve hardening.
"Jie jie~!"
It was determined to learn this new move!
Meanwhile, Eevee was learning how to use 'Return' under Glaceon's guidance.
With Glaceon's hands-on instruction, Eevee's learning process would be expedited, especially when combining the guidance with future TM usage.
'Return' was a manifestation of emotional energy. In this aspect, Luke's Pokémon had the advantage of being closely bonded with him.
The young Pokémon raced across the field, its fur soaked with sweat, yet its eyes were sharp and determined. It owed its new lease of life to Luke and was now committed to fulfilling his wish, aspiring to become the strongest Trainer.
"Vui~!"
A white light enveloped the training target as Eevee launched itself with the 'Return' move. The attack's power exceeded that of a regular Take Down, surprising Glaceon.
But one attempt wasn't enough. Eevee, grinning despite its exhaustion, stood up and resumed practicing, much to Glaceon's astonishment.
On the sidelines, Cynthia watched the two Pokémon diligently train, her arms crossed as she smiled approvingly. A Trainer's respect towards their Pokémon could be gauged from their attitude.
Some Trainers treated their Pokémon as mere tools, a means to an end for profit. Yet, others regarded them as friends, companions, even family.
Cynthia firmly believed that the path to strength demanded an enduring and genuine fondness for Pokémon. Her personal journey to becoming the champion of the Sinnoh Alliance attested to this philosophy.
Whether it was innate talent or sheer luck, Cynthia brushed her blonde hair behind her ear and smiled softly.
At least on this journey, Teacher Luke shared the same convictions as her.
...
As the sun gradually set, its warm glow faded, and flocks of Pidgey fluttered across the darkening sky.
Sighing despondently, Luke rested his cheek on his hand, his elbow planted on the table.
"Dinnertime already, and they're still not back..."
Though only two months had passed since the shift in the timeline, Luke had grown accustomed to a life intertwined with Pokémon. Haunter and Eevee had become an essential part of his household.
And, of course, he couldn't help but miss Cynthia.
As his thoughts wandered, a ghostly claw unexpectedly emerged through the door, fumbling for the doorknob.
In the next instant, Haunter pushed its way inside.
"Clang clang clang!" (Uncle's back!)
Luke was slightly startled by the sudden entrance.
Initially wanting to express his annoyance, Luke's gaze shifted to the excited Haunter. He relented with a faint smile and said, "Welcome back... I'll reheat the dishes."
Eevee, visibly worn out from training, staggered onto the sofa and let out a soft snort.
Observing this, Luke fetched a Silk Scarf and placed it on Eevee. He also adjusted the air conditioner a few degrees warmer.
"You were training just now?" Luke inquired.
"Jie jie~!"
Haunter eagerly nodded before Cynthia had the chance to respond.
Luke let out a tired sigh.
He had thought that after witnessing a Masters League Tournament, the two of them might take a break. Yet, here they were, working even harder in their training.
Well, at least they hadn't managed to demolish the house through their training endeavors.
Just as Luke was beginning to relax and believe he had escaped further surprises, Cynthia spoke up:
"I trained Haunter's Shadow Ball moves. I believe... it should be of assistance."
Luke looked puzzled.
He had thought that after a full day of activities, the two Pokémon might be content to stay indoors.
He never expected them to continue training with such enthusiasm!
"I'll send you the training method for Shadow Ball to your mailbox later," Cynthia continued with a gentle smile. "In addition to that, I'll need a modest budget to facilitate Haunter's Shadow Ball training."
Luke was momentarily taken aback, stuttering, "How much does it cost to train Shadow Ball?"
"Not an exorbitant amount," Cynthia mused, "a quantity of Dusk Stones, a higher quality Ghost Gem... If you tabulate everything..."
"It adds up to over three million," Cynthia concluded with a faint smile.
Luke was immediately stunned by this revelation.
What did that mean?
Three million was enough for him to purchase a house in Magic City!
Was being a Trainer really this expensive?
Upon reflection, however—
The Shadow Ball technique instructed by the Sinnoh Champion was undoubtedly extraordinary in terms of its power.
For slightly over three million in material costs, the package deal of "Champion's guidance + training method" was undoubtedly an excellent deal!
But considering Luke's own lack of aspirations as a Trainer, the thought of spending three million just to train Shadow Ball left him dumbfounded.
A bead of cold sweat traced down Luke's forehead, and a fleeting image of a luxury villa taking flight on wings appeared before him.
Luke's breathing quickened.
This situation had escalated beyond his control!
Maintain composure... maintain composure!
But what if... what if Haunter didn't want to learn Shadow Ball?
Training in such a demanding move, compounded by Cynthia's rigorous methods, might prove too much for Haunter to handle!
Luke's brain went Bzz Bzz.
He turned to face Haunter, which was gazing at him with a hopeful expression.
Cynthia then chimed in, "I could lend you the funds first. You can take your time repaying it."
Luke hesitated, glancing between Haunter and Cynthia.
He didn't want to let down his Pokémon, and given Cynthia's offer, he had no solid reason to decline...
With a deep breath, Luke clenched his teeth and tremulously said, "Let's do it!"