Archer's POV, the day of the announcements
As I stood on the stage, looking at the buzzing crowd, I couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement coursing through my veins. Today marked a happy memory in making—the League official announcements about the latest discoveries and prominent inventions of the year.
"The League is proud to present the latest advancements in Pokémon technology and innovation," the announcer declared, his voice echoing through the grand hall. "From state-of-the-art Poké Balls to groundbreaking research breakthroughs, this year has seen a remarkable surge in advancements that will shape the future of the Pokémon world."
I listened intently as the announcer began to detail the various discoveries, each one more impressive than the last.
"The renowned Silph Corporation presents the Ultraball—an extraordinary Poké Ball designed to capture Pokémon with better efficiency, stronger than the great ball," the announcer announced, the background video showing the capture of a Dragonite ripped apart the silence of the crowd.
"The Devon Corporation, a new competitor on the scene, introduces the Dive Ball and Net Ball—innovative additions to the Poké Ball lineup, designed to enhance underwater captures and capture Bug-type Pokémon" the announcer continued, drawing whispers from the audience.
Now, that's interesting, Specific Pokeball for specific types. Wonder if the merchandise war between Devon and Silph will ignite with that.
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As the announcer proceeded with the announcements, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me, because it was nearing my slot.
My heart raced with excitement as I waited for the moment when my achievements would be recognized.
"And now, it is with great pleasure that we introduce the rising star of Kanto's Bharata—Archer," the announcer declared, his voice resounding with pride and admiration.
CLAP CLAP CLAP ClAP
A wave of applause erupted from the crowd as my name was announced, and I stepped forward, feeling a surge of pride swelling within me.
"Archer, a prodigious young talent, has made significant contributions to the Pokémon world at a remarkably young age," the announcer proclaimed, his words echoing through the hall.
I listened intently as the announcer highlighted my achievements—the accomplishments that I had worked so hard to attain.
"Archer, the youngest breeder of Kanto, second in the world only to Mr. Elm himself—a true prodigy in the making!" the announcer exclaimed, prompting a ripple of impressed murmurs to sweep through the audience, with some pointed looks towards Elm who was seated among the crowd.
Elm just gave a bow to the attention, though quite clumsily, with his lab coat slipping and his glasses dropping. God, anything other than breeding the man is a Klutz.
Still, I don't think I can match him in breeding. At least not anymore. The sheer amount of things on my plate all but took me out of the ring for breeder No.1 competition.
I felt a laugh come to me as he shouted with a banner waving along with Sycamore reading ALL HAIL ARCHER.
I couldn't help but feel how genuine or easily they seemed to connect with me. I could even see them as the first friends of mine in this life. Everyone till now was either family or employee or patient.
Though it makes me wonder just how isolated was socially, maybe Dregen forced this on me so I could make friends.
Disregarding these thoughts I smiled at the recognition, grateful for the support of my new friends.
"Already with six gym badges from the major gyms of Kanto—truly a remarkable feat for one so young!" the announcer continued, and I could sense the awe in the crowd's response. Much more than anything till now.
It was proof of the reverence that Pokemon training and gyms have in this world.
"And let us not forget his courageous act of apprehending a figure we trusted a lot, Mirage Master Yuuta—a criminal now known to many of us," Yeah, words the collected scientists went silent.
It might seem stupid for me to say this, I could just feel the things from other people. Not like a power or anything, like you just know when someone close to you is angry or sad.
In the same way, I could feel the rise of their admiration for me.
"Finally, we must acknowledge his ambitious goal of striving for the Kanto circuit championship to establish a gym for the sake of his home," the announcer concluded, and I am thankful he mentioned this because I want some appreciation for what I am doing. Especially since my reputation back there is neutral to some stardom, due to my heavy decision.
"Such Virtue, I wish I had a kid like this person." the announcer continued, his voice bringing some laughs to the people.
The announcer is good, I felt my emotions wash over me with his words, But I am also coming to realize that I like this feeling of stardom and appreciation.
Fucking addictive.
But the pinnacle of the moment came when the announcer announced a special guest to honour my achievements—a figure revered by all in the Pokémon world.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome our special guest, the retired Alliance president of Indigo and now the leader of the Alliance conference committee—Mr. Charles Goodshow!" the announcer proclaimed, his voice ringing out with reverence and excitement.
[Auther's note: I mistyped Goodshow as Goodsman in previous chapters. Sorry about that guys]
A hush fell over the crowd as Mr. Goodshow took the stage, his presence commanding the attention of all.
The man is the greatest political leader and reformist in the world right now. While Oak stood as the main pillar for change, Charles Goodshow is the change.
Charles Goodshow is a genius lawmaker and administrator who is the epitome of diplomacy, one happy talk with him, you will forget the fight you just had.
One week with him, you will forget the anger behind the grievance.
One month with him, oh boy, you will say fuck off to the centuries of grudges.
[A quote depicting Charles Goodshow in Celadon TV Broadcast]
You must know, that this guy could be considered the good version of Hitler in this world. A dwarf old man whose shadow spanned the entire world.
While my heart was in the clouds from this scenario, my paranoid mind couldn't help thinking- why did this recluse come to the spotlight? I mean the only time he appears in public view is for inter-region diplomacy and the Indigo tournament.
"You see, ladies and gentlemen," Mr Goodshow's voice rang out, carrying across the gathered audience, "the reason I hold this young man, Archer, in such high regard is not merely because of his remarkable talent. No, it goes much deeper than that."
He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "Unlike many individuals in today's society, Archer possesses a rare quality – a dedication to improving the world around him. It is this selflessness that truly sets him apart."
The crowd murmured in agreement, nodding in understanding as the Announcer elaborated on My character and contributions. But somehow, his words resonated with many, striking a chord deep within their hearts.
Now, I am envious of his speech skills. I need such things if I want to command a gym.
"And so," Mr Goodshow announced, his voice carrying a note of solemnity, "as a gesture of support and admiration for Archer's endeavours, the Alliance has decided to provide full funding for his research labs."
"Latest Silph Supercomputer- Max 53, All end scanners from Cinnabar, Tempered Devon alloys in construction..."
Gasps of astonishment rippled through the audience as Mr Goodshow revealed the extent of the support being offered.
Even, though I am puzzled by it, this is already reaching the R&D or research labs of most of the prominent organisations or Professors.
But it was when Mr. Goodshow approached me personally, his face away from the prying eyes of the crowd, that the true significance of his gesture became clear.
As he handed over the patent certificates and research funding forms, Mr Goodshow spoke quietly, his words carrying the weight of years of experience, while the flashes of cameras rang in the background.
"Your home," he murmured, his gaze steady and unwavering, "is a place I've longed to see change for the better. But the road ahead will not be easy. Be strong, Archer, for change is often met with resistance. Especially in your homeland, that resistance is a kind that may pose a threat to your very life."
Quite ominous, Thank you very much. I guess the kiddish personality is a front.
"So, I will come by one and make sure to set me up with a woman. I must say, Bharata's women are the most understanding females in the world."
His wiggling eyebrows strike down the previous assumption.
I felt funny seeing him turn back to the crown and jump high. Now, I am laughing as he clapped his feet together.
Funny Old man.
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Archer's POV, hotel room
I collapsed onto the plush hotel bed, completely exhausted. While the day was fun and vexing from the hounding reporters, I couldn't shake the weight of Mr. Goodshow's words from my mind.
ZING ZING
With a heavy sigh, I glanced over at the gleaming sword resting against the wall, its polished surface catching the fading light of the setting sun. I can only think it would have looked good in the photos if I carried it.
I couldn't help but feel that I have been craving for more fame recently, especially since I just saw the benefits of fame today. While my decision to contribute towards home seemed to resonate somewhat for Goodshow on an ideological level, I am just grateful for his support.
After all with his influence, he could have found another way to enter Bharatsa's political field, but he chose me. And like he said, I could find no other reason other than him just liking my guts, more like my goals.
Goals which were given to me with the sword. Fuck Dregen.
With the relaxing scolding done, I went back to the proper track of thinking about Charles.
As for my other qualities, Talent or wealth are something he is showered with every day by numerous people to gain his favour.
KNOCK KNOCK
But my thoughts were interrupted by a soft knocking at the door. With a reluctant sigh, I dragged myself to my feet, straightening my appearance in the mirror before answering the call.
Another change I noticed in myself, becoming conscious about looks. Though initially, it started as a need to make a good impression, it has already become part of my character.
Still, I look fucking cool.
The door opened to reveal a very unlikely group, which I am quite happy about forming.
Sam, Jon, Samantha with Sycamore and Elm.
I looked towards Sam who just gave a nod, I was happy he managed to form a relationship with the two geniuses hopefully a relationship he won't need shortly. Because I want to live a long life.
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Jon's Pov
As we carried the package into the room, I couldn't help but feel curious. What could be inside that warranted a special delivery, especially after the League announcements?
My eyes drifted to Dregen's sword, a silent reminder in the corner of the room, before settling on Archer as he approached the table where the package lay. His question echoed my thoughts perfectly, "Couldn't it be given with the rewards at the announcements?"
The other researchers in the room merely shrugged, offering no further explanation beyond "Official procedures." It was a vague response, leaving us all to wonder.
Samantha, ever the efficient one, stepped forward with a pair of scissors to open the package.
I couldn't help but notice how seamlessly she seemed to slide into the role of Archer's assistant with each passing day. Looking at her blessed back as she bent to cut open the tape on the package, I felt my pants tighten.
With a calm demeanour that ignored the jealous looks of the other males in the room, Archer peeled back the layers of wrapping to reveal a printed license of his research ID, a paper with a code, and a Pokeball.
That was not what I was expecting at all.
Elm, whom I came to see as the embodiment of nerdiness, began to explain the process involved. "You need to enter the code on the official website along with scans of your trainer ID and retina scan to gain access to the League database. There's a Pokémon Center nearby where we can go to—"
But Elm's explanation was cut short as Rotomdex, ever the prime assistant, scanned the code and opened the website in a flash. The screen filled with details and uploads at lightning speed, leaving us all in awe.
"Or you can do that," I remarked, a hint of amusement in my tone as Archer bypassed the need for a trip to the Pokémon Center with Rotomdex's quick action.
Now, I can agree with how handy the Rotomdex is and agree with Archer's continued upgrades to it. As far as I know, he is keeping track of the upgrade cost in millions as a unit of measurement.
Ignoring Elm's grumbles about the handy Rotomdex, Archer eagerly tossed the Pokeball, revealing the block-like Pokémon within.
"'" How?" echoed the collective question on everyone's lips as we stared in awe at the unexpected addition to the room.
As I gazed at the Porygon before us, I couldn't help but be struck by its appearance. Its sleek, geometric block design gave it an almost futuristic aura, its digital form shimmering with an otherworldly glow.
Archer approached the artificial Pokémon, explaining, "It was a reward I requested due to my involvement in exposing Yuuta's illegal experiments."
Elm's expression grew dull at that revelation, and he nodded in understanding. "I never expected him to resort to such drastic measures," he muttered, his voice tinged with regret.
Meanwhile, Rotomdex flew through the room, scanning the Porygon and providing its analysis. "It is a newly made one," it declared. "No hint of extra software or data, except for the core data. And its moves are as expected."
Sycamore chimed in, adding, "Each Porygon is tailored to suit the needs of its researcher. They're essentially ideal Pokémon breeds raised according to specific requirements."
Sam, always one to ask critical questions, asked an intriguing question, "Since it's a data-resembling Pokémon, couldn't it be copied?"
Archer took a moment to plug in a large data transfer cable to the lifeless Porygon before responding. "The problem lies in the monumental task of replicating its complex data structure," he explained. "Not only would it require immense computing power, but even the slightest error in the arrangement of data could render the copy useless. There are only a handful of places in the world capable of attempting such a feat, and even then, it's a daunting challenge."
Elm and Sycamore nodded in agreement, though Elm couldn't help but lament, "It's a pity Akihabara is such a recluse. He has to be practically dragged out of his hole by Professor Oak's threats just to accept his professorship title."
Meanwhile, Rotomdex continued to send data, featuring names of various software such as Metagross Combat Evaluation, Psychic Eval, Language Adapt, M.M. Data, and Types Energy Data. The last two took a considerable amount of time to process, so rather than disturb Rotomdex, we all found various ways to occupy ourselves.
For me, it was a simple game of Angry Birds, where I found solace in launching angry Pidgeys at the virtual Rocket grunts holding eggs hostage.
It was a welcome distraction from the complexities of science spoken by geniuses before me, if only for a brief moment.
My game was abruptly interrupted by Sycamore's exclamation, "I see it now! No wonder you're uploading all this data so forcefully. You're essentially pushing its boundaries to facilitate improvement."
I watched in fascination as the blocky Pokémon began to undergo a remarkable transformation, its angular form gradually softening and rounding out.
Sycamore's admiration was evident in his voice as he continued, "You know, I believe you're the one who deserves the title of genius in the field of evolution. Here I am, researching various processes involved in Mega Evolution for years, and yet you're discovering new methods practically every day."
While confused by the term Mega evolution I watched as Archer's Earbuds and Rotomdex blinked rapidly as if to connect with the Pokemon. It was Archer's eyes that puzzled as if looking at something else.
Something that Sam and I noticed many times till now.
As Sycamore's words trailed off, the Pokémon enveloped in a radiant light, its contours shifting and morphing into a new form.
WHROOOM
In a mechanical voice, it announced, "Porygon2 online. Connection with Mindware headset complete. Combat software integrated. Conversion2 learned. Adaptability, processing power, and downloading capacity improved. Storage capacity tripled."
I admired the evolution, but what truly caught my attention was the change in Archer's appearance. His previously black pupils had taken on a silver hue, shimmering with an otherworldly light. Though I couldn't fathom the significance of this alteration, I chose not to pry, instead diverting the focus by expressing my admiration.
"You're incredible, buddy," I exclaimed, unable to contain genuine awe and jumped to hold him in a hug.
It was while I was mid-air that I saw Sam mirroring me and who even winked at me as we fell on Archer.