Do You Even Know How Monsterous You Were?
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27th February, 1998, Indigo Plateau…
-
Blake walked into the meeting room with his usual calm elegance, the faintest trace of a smirk curling on his lips.
His late arrival was no accident—he relished the small thrill it gave him to make the uptight members of the League wait, to feel the room's tension shift as he entered.
His polished suit gleamed under the soft light, and as he moved, his presence expanded, filling the space without him needing to utter a single word.
The murmurs rippled through the room as Blake made his entrance—some respectful, others tinged with irritation. His gaze flicked briefly to Agatha, whose sharp eyes held an unmistakable disapproval. The scowl on her face was enough to send a quiet chiding, but Blake didn't bother to respond.
He had long since learned to ignore the older woman's silent reprimands. After all, she knew better than anyone that having problems with him would be a fool's errand. His position in the League, coupled with his personal strength and influence, made it clear that no one could afford to challenge him—not in public, at least.
His eyes flicked over the room, landing briefly on the new Gym Leader from Viridian City—Cole, was it? Blake didn't even acknowledge him. The young man's presence barely registered. After all, Cole wouldn't last long in this cutthroat world.
"Blake, good afternoon. How are you?" Erika greeted, her calm demeanor breaking into a slight smile. Unlike Agatha, Erika was someone Blake respected—someone who knew how to play the game without veiling her sharpness. Their greeting was quick but genuine, and Blake offered a nod and soft smile in return.
Lt. Surge's booming voice interrupted the brief moment of civility. "Well, well, look who finally decided to show up! Couldn't keep us waiting much longer, eh, Blake?"
Blake returned a dry smile. "Surge, I'm sure everyone was doing just fine without me. But thank you for the warm welcome." The words carried no real warmth, but his smile softened the delivery just enough to keep it polite.
Meanwhile, Daisy's gaze flickered toward him, a trace of regret in her eyes before she quickly turned away. Her fingers drummed lightly on the table. Blake, ever observant, saw it all. He offered her a quiet nod in greeting but nothing more. His past attachment to her was long gone, lost in the shifting sands of time.
Lance, standing at the head of the table, watched the subtle exchange with a knowing look in his eyes. "Glad you could make it, Blake," he said, his voice warm but laced with playful sarcasm. "We were all wondering when you'd wake up."
Blake's smirk deepened. "Apologies, Mr. Champion. I didn't want to steal the spotlight too early. The room pays attention to you better when I am not around." His words were smooth, but there was an edge to them—a reminder of the unspoken power dynamic between them.
Lance chuckled but didn't push the matter, well accustomed to Blake's banter. If it was Lance a few years ago, then there would be a huge tantrum to deal with now- a dragon's trantrum.
Seated at the long table were familiar faces: The Elite Four, the Tier A Gym Leaders, and Senior Ace Trainers employed by the League. The top brass of the League, including the newest Elite Four member, Will—who had already established himself as both a powerful Psychic-type trainer and a businessman with a flair for social climbing.
Blake slid into his seat beside Will, who leaned in with an overly eager expression. "Mr. Blake, it's always a pleasure to have you around, and you came just in time," Will said, his voice thick with forced enthusiasm, eager to gain favor with the infamous trainer.
Blake didn't meet his gaze. Instead, he turned his attention to the room. "Pleasure is an overstatement, Will," he replied coolly, though his lips quirked into a barely perceptible smile. "You're doing well, I hope? Yes? We'll talk later, hmm?"
Will didn't seem to mind the indirect dismissal. His smile never wavered, the mask of politeness firmly in place. He knew the game well enough to recognize when a more strategic conversation would come later.
As the room settled, Lance cleared his throat, signaling the start of the meeting. "Alright, everyone," Lance began, his voice cutting through the chatter, authoritative yet warm. "We're here to discuss the plans for this year's League tournament—what we're expecting, who we're considering as new recruits for the League, and any developments that need to be addressed before the new season kicks off."
The meeting shifted into the strategic discussions Lance had planned. Talk turned to tournament schedules, preparations, and the all-important topic of new recruits for the league and the future trainers to look out for.
Several names were mentioned, each one drawing a different reaction from the group. And then, as if to punctuate the significance of the conversation, Raul's name emerged.
Blake's gaze flickered imperceptibly, and his ears perked slightly when he heard Raul's name spoken aloud. The murmurs swirled briefly, but Blake kept his usual aloof demeanor.
It wasn't surprising to hear Raul's name—after all, his fellow reincarnator had proven himself in battle and had impressed Blake and his Pokemon.
And from the looks of things, Raul had impressed all the other Gym Leaders as well.
Blake's lips curled slightly at the thought.
'Well that's how it should be.'
He let the conversation roll on for a moment before speaking up briefly, his tone carrying the subtle weight of someone who knew more than they let on. "Raul, yes I remember his quite well. He earned my badge fairly. His display was impressive... I approve of him."
Everyone in the room was taken aback by the compliment—Blake wasn't one to praise easily. They all took note of Raul's name, particularly the Elite Four. They knew the kind of potential a trainer needed to receive such "high evaluation" from Blake.
The meeting continued, with Blake appearing uninterested, contributing only a few words here and there.
Eventually, Lance wrapped things up. "That's all for today," he said, his voice cutting through the stillness that had settled over the room. "We'll reconvene soon. Thank you, everyone."
Most of the Gym Leaders and non-Elite Four members began to file out, but Lance's voice halted them. "Blake, Bruno, Lorelei, Agatha, and Will—please stay behind."
Blake followed Lance and the Elite Four down the hallway to his office, where a more private conversation was about to unfold—one the others weren't qualified to weigh in on.
As they walked, Bruno casually approached Blake, his usual easygoing demeanor belying the intensity of his words. "You know, Blake," he began, "I had a battle recently with a promising trainer."
Blake raised a brow, intrigued. "Oh? Someone you found promising? Must be another muscle-head," he smirked teasingly.
Bruno chuckled and didn't mind the jab. "I wish. No, this kid's a Ground-type specialist. We had a 3-on-3 battle, and despite me winning 2 out of 3, he nearly beat my Hitmonchan in the second round. It was close." Bruno laughed fondly, recalling the intensity of the fight.
Blake's eyes widened. Battling Bruno was no small feat, but taking down one of his Pokémon—and nearly beating another? That was on a different level.
Blake's curiosity piqued. "Who was this trainer? A Ground-type specialist, you say?"
Bruno grinned. "Oh, it's the trainer you endorsed earlier. His name's Raul, I think he was from Sinnoh."
Lorelei overheard and raised an eyebrow, her tone teasing. "Raul, huh? He's that impressive? You, the Muscle-head, and the Great Flame Master all praise this boy?"
Blake smiled, his eyes glinting with quiet certainty. "Oh, he's good. In a few years," he said, "Raul will stand where I stood when I was still competing."
Bruno and Lorelei were stunned. Blake? The strongest trainer in Indigo? The unstoppable force? The man who participated in four leagues in four years and won every single one? The man who'd defeated Elite Four members across all four regions and had every right to challenge his birth region's Champion?
For him to say someone could reach that level… well, it left both Bruno and Lorelei silent, in awe and doubt.
'Do you even know how monstrous you were? You were a shear force of nature...' Bruno and Lorelei thought together.
Bruno grinned, clearly enjoying the conversation. "Well, that's a big statement coming from you, Blake. That kid's nowhere near your level back then, but... guess I'll be keeping an eye on him."
Blake chuckled and got curious, "Say, how did he battle? Were you surprised?"
Bruno put his hand on his chin as he thought back to the battle.
…
*Flashback*
…
Raul took a step forward, his confidence rising. "Raul. From Canalave City. And I've heard of you, Bruno. I've always wanted to have a proper battle against you."
Bruno's eyes gleamed with an unmistakable fire, and his smile turned devilish. "A battle, huh? I've been waiting for a challenger like you. Let's see if you can keep up."
Bruno's eyes gleamed with excitement as he accepted the challenge. "You're on, Raul," he said, a mischievous grin on his face. With a swift motion, he sent out his first Pokémon, a colossal Onix that materialized with a rumble, its rocky body towering over the field like an unstoppable force.
Raul narrowed his eyes, analyzing the massive rock serpent. He knew exactly what to do. Without hesitation, he threw his Pokéball high into the air, and the massive shape of Rhyperior materialized with a heavy thud, its rocky body adorned with powerful armor and a giant horn on its head.
"I see you're serious," Bruno chuckled, his voice laced with admiration. "Let's see what you've got."
Raul didn't waste a moment. "Rhyperior, use Rock Wrecker!"
Rhyperior's body surged with power as it stomped forward, its arm glowing with energy before it slammed into the ground, sending a barrage of rocks towards Onix. The force of the attack cracked the earth beneath them, but Onix swiftly dodged, its agile movements surprising for such a large Pokémon.
Bruno's grin widened. "Nice move. But let's see if you can keep up! Onix, use Earthquake!"
Onix roared, its massive tail slamming into the ground. The whole field trembled violently, causing Rhyperior to stagger slightly, its legs shaking as the quake threatened to throw it off balance. But Raul wasn't fazed. He clenched his fists and gave the command with determination.
"Rhyperior, hold steady and use Stone Edge!"
With a roar of its own, Rhyperior leapt forward, its arms crackling with energy as it launched razor-sharp stones at Onix. The stones struck Onix hard, forcing it to recoil, its rocky body cracking under the assault.
Bruno raised an eyebrow. "Impressive! But let's take it up a notch! Onix, Stealth Rock, then follow up with Rock Slide!"
Onix quickly set up Stealth Rock on the battlefield, sharp stones appearing around Rhyperior's feet. It was a clever move, setting the stage for another powerful attack. As Rhyperior began to charge, Onix unleashed a Rock Slide, sending a cascade of boulders crashing down toward Rhyperior.
Raul gritted his teeth, knowing his Pokémon had to act quickly. "Rhyperior, use Iron Tail to break through!"
With a powerful swing of its tail, Rhyperior managed to smash through the falling rocks, but it wasn't without consequence. It was already feeling the weight of the battle, and it wasn't moving quite as fluidly as before.
Yet, with one final burst of energy, it charged forward, Rock Wrecking the ground beneath Onix with an enormous strike. The attack landed perfectly, sending Onix crashing to the ground in defeat.
First round, Raul 1 and Bruno 0!
Bruno and Raul both recalled their pokemon. Fire and pride burning in Raul's eyes!
Bruno chuckled, though there was a hint of respect in his eyes. "Well done, kid. But it's just getting started." He returned Onix to its Pokéball before pulling out his next one. "Hitmonlee, time to shine."
Raul's confidence soared, but his expression remained sharp as he looked over at Bruno's new challenger. "Alright, let's do this!" He reached for his Pokéball and released his trusted Garchomp.
But as Garchomp appeared, Raul felt a cold wave of uncertainty. The fighting stance of Hitmonlee was perfect, its legs poised like coiled springs, ready to strike. Bruno's Hitmonlee wasn't just any fighter—it was a Pokémon that had been trained relentlessly, and it showed in every movement.
"Hitmonlee, High Jump Kick!" Bruno shouted.
The moment Bruno gave the command, Hitmonlee's leg shot forward, faster than Raul could react. Garchomp barely managed to sidestep the powerful kick, but the sheer force of the attack forced it to stumble back, sending a wave of tension through Raul.
"Garchomp, Dragon Claw!" Raul commanded, hoping to land a decisive blow.
Garchomp lunged forward, claws glowing with fierce energy, but Hitmonlee was already airborne, spinning in the air and using High Jump Kick again. Garchomp was forced to defend, but the second kick landed with a resounding impact, sending Garchomp sprawling back, struggling to stay on its feet.
Raul gritted his teeth, watching as Hitmonlee closed the distance, eyes gleaming with competitive hunger. Sweat beaded on his forehead, but it wasn't just the heat of the battle—this Hitmonlee was faster, stronger, and more skilled than any opponent Raul had fought in a while.
"Garchomp, Dragon Tail!" Raul shouted in desperation.
Garchomp's tail whipped forward in an attempt to strike, but Hitmonlee was already ready, its legs dancing around with lightning speed. With another High Jump Kick, it struck Garchomp's side, sending it crashing to the ground. The force was enough to knock the wind out of Raul's Pokémon, and Garchomp staggered back to its feet, clearly struggling.
"That's one of my top three Pokémon," Bruno remarked casually, though there was a glint of pride in his eyes. "Maybe I pushed you a little too hard, huh?"
Garchomp was still ready to go, but Raul noticed that the last High Jump Kick, had hurt Garchomp more than he thought as it was struggling to stand straight.
Sighing Raul said that it was his loss and recalled a reluctant Garchomp, Bruno did the same with his Hitmonlee, and the score was now, 1-1 for each.
Bruno's expression shifted, his smile never faltering. He pulled out his next Pokéball and tossed it high into the air. With a flash of red light, Hitmonchan appeared in a fighting stance, its fists clenched and ready for action. The elite fighter exuded an aura of calm but unwavering focus, its eyes narrowing as it locked onto Raul.
"Hitmonchan, you're up," Bruno said with a steady voice. "Show him what true discipline looks like."
Raul's heart pounded in his chest. Hitmonchan was a formidable opponent, and he knew it wouldn't be an easy win. But he wasn't going to back down now. He reached for his own Pokéball, his fingers brushing against its surface as he called out the Pokémon that had been with him from the start. "Ursaring, let's go!"
Ursaring emerged with a powerful roar, its muscular frame casting a shadow over the battlefield. Its expression was fierce, its eyes locking with Hitmonchan in mutual understanding. Raul could feel the intensity in the air; this battle was far from over.
Bruno looked at Raul, his eyes sharp with respect. "This should be a good match. I've seen a lot of Ursaring, but I've got a feeling yours is special."
Raul gave a nod, returning the silent acknowledgment. "I'm ready. Let's do this, Ursaring."
The tension was palpable as both Pokémon squared off. Bruno gave the first command, his voice calm but assertive. "Hitmonchan, use ThunderPunch!"
Hitmonchan's fist crackled with electricity as it rushed forward, launching the electric-powered punch directly at Ursaring. The attack was fast, and the electricity crackled in the air with lethal precision. But Raul had already anticipated the move.
"Ursaring, dodge and use Hyper Beam!" Raul shouted, his voice unwavering.
Ursaring sidestepped the attack, its massive body moving with surprising agility for its size. In the same motion, it gathered all of its remaining energy into its chest and unleashed a devastating Hyper Beam, the powerful beam of light and energy blasting straight for Hitmonchan.
Bruno's eyes widened with a mixture of awe and surprise. "Not bad. Hitmonchan, block it with your Ice Punch!"
Hitmonchan's fist erupted with a surge of cold energy as it attempted to intercept the beam. The icy punch collided with the powerful blast, and for a moment, the two forces clashed in a spectacle of raw energy. The ground cracked under the pressure, and the air buzzed with the heat of battle.
Raul's heart raced as he saw Hitmonchan struggle to stop the hyper beam but still standing strong. He knew that Ursaring had the upper hand now, but he wasn't about to get complacent. Hitmonchan was a fighter, and Bruno wasn't going to let this battle slip away so easily.
"Stand strong, Hitmonchan!" Bruno called, his voice filled with determination. "We're not finished yet! Ice Punch, one more time!"
Hitmonchan, still clearly shaken from the Hyper Beam, prepared for its next move as ice-type energy converged into it's gloves.
But Raul wasn't waiting. He had seen the exhaustion in Hitmonchan's movements, and he wasn't about to let this opportunity slip.
"Ursaring, finish it with a Crush Claw!" Raul commanded, his voice resolute.
Ursaring's claws glowed with intense energy as it lunged forward, crashing into Hitmonchan with a devastating Crush Claw. The impact was enough to send the fighter skidding across the battlefield, struggling to maintain its balance.
But that's where Hitmonchan showed why it was an Elite Four's Pokemon. As it was skidding across the field, it's ability Inner Focus was activated. And Hitmonchan with a roar stopped and stood strong.
Raul's breath came heavy as he watched Hitmonchan stand strong on the other side of the battlefield. His Ursaring might look okay, but the first hit and the energy wasted from Hyper Beam was there, but he wasn't about to back down.
Both Pokémon were exhausted, but their determination burned brightly, each unwilling to give an inch. As they started a close quarter combat, Punches, slashes and speed, showcased to the perfection.
Bruno's gaze remained focused, his confidence steady. "Alright, Hitmonchan," he called, his voice low and calm, "finish this with Mach Punch!"
In a blur, Hitmonchan closed the gap with incredible speed, its fist glowing as it delivered a lightning-quick Mach Punch right into Ursaring's side. The impact sent Ursaring stumbling, its massive body straining to regain its balance. But Raul wasn't finished yet.
"Ursaring, you can take that! Stand strong! Then use Slash!" Raul ordered, determination in his voice.
With a roar, Ursaring regained its footing from it's trainer's encouragement and slashed forward, its sharp claws cutting through the air. The attack connected, grazing Hitmonchan and forcing it back a few paces, as it cried out in pain but the seasoned fighter recovered quickly, its stance unwavering.
Bruno gave a nod, a proud smile tugging at his lips. "Good try, but it'll take more than that. Hitmonchan, ThunderPunch!"
Raul tensed as Hitmonchan's fist crackled with electricity, each step calculated as it approached Ursaring. Before Ursaring could counter, Hitmonchan's ThunderPunch landed, the electrical surge coursing through Ursaring's body, causing it to shudder.
But even through the searing pain, Ursaring's spirit remained unbroken. Raul clenched his fist, his voice strong. "Ursaring, one last time—Hyper Beam!"
Gathering every ounce of remaining energy, Ursaring unleashed a powerful Hyper Beam, the blazing beam roaring toward Hitmonchan with devastating force. Bruno's eyes widened at the intensity of the attack, but he smiled at the challenge.
"Hitmonchan, Focus Punch—deflect it!"
With remarkable composure, Hitmonchan's fist glowed with fighting energy, and it swung into the Hyper Beam with precise timing. energy versus energy clashed, and for a moment, the two attacks held each other in a spectacular, explosive display. But as the energy dissipated, Hitmonchan remained standing, its breath ragged yet resolute.
Ursaring, exhausted from the Hyper Beam, staggered, its energy drained. Bruno seized the moment.
"Hitmonchan, finish it—Close Combat!"
With a final surge of strength, Hitmonchan rushed forward, delivering a relentless series of strikes to Ursaring. Punch after punch landed, each one filled with determination and discipline. Ursaring tried to stand strong, but the force of Hitmonchan's attacks became too much.
With a heavy groan, Ursaring collapsed to its knees, its strength finally giving out. Raul's heart sank, but he watched with admiration as his Pokémon fought to the very end.
With that, it was Bruno's win.
…
*End of Flashback*
…
Lorelei was certainly impressed once Bruno was done narrating the battle. Blake on the other hand had a small smile, but didn't comment.
He glanced around as Bruno finished his story. He could feel the weight of everyone's attention. They were all listening in on their conversation, but Blake didn't mind.
'Well, Raul, now you are on the Elite Four and Lance's radar, you are welcome~!'
His aloofness remained unshaken, his gaze focused straight ahead as they neared Lance's office.
As the group filed into the spacious room, the tension in the air was palpable. Lance immediately set the tone, his voice firm and commanding.
"We're here to discuss the status of the Portal. Unfortunately, no traces of Team Rocket have been found yet, but we can't let our guard down," Lance began, his expression serious.
Blake's lip twitched in irritation, though he didn't say a word. The other members of the Elite Four shared uneasy glances, each of them aware of the potential danger that lingered.
Lance continued, his eyes sweeping across the room as he assigned roles. "The tournament is just around the corner, and we need to be prepared. I'm assigning responsibilities to each of you."
"Agatha," Lance said, turning to the dark-haired woman. "You'll be in charge of the Portal Security Division. We need someone sharp and capable. You'll monitor the Portal around the clock."
Agatha gave a stiff nod, her expression cool and unreadable.
"Will," Lance continued, his gaze moving to the psychic trainer. "You'll be in charge of screening everyone near Indigo Plateau for the full duration of the tournament. If anyone remotely resembling a Rocket member is found, you'll handle it immediately."
Will didn't flinch at the task. He nodded calmly, his sharp mind already calculating the best course of action.
"Bruno," Lance addressed the powerhouse, who stood tall and confident. "You're in charge of the security for the Tournament itself. Ensure that everything runs smoothly. Any breach, you deal with it."
Bruno grinned, his hands flexing in anticipation. "Got it, Lance. Nobody's getting through."
Lance's gaze shifted to Lorelei. "Lorelei, you're on Logistics. You'll ensure that everything necessary for the tournament is accounted for. All supplies, transportation, and coordination. It's on you."
Lorelei gave a sharp nod, her icy exterior unyielding. "Understood."
Lance turned to Blake, his expression hardening slightly. "Blake, you'll be on standby at Indigo Plateau in case Team Rocket tries to attack the League. You know the area best, so you'll be able to react quickly if anything happens."
Blake simply inclined his head, his gaze distant and uncaring. "Fine. I'll make sure nothing happens."
Lance then looked around the room to make sure everyone understood their responsibilities. After a brief moment of silence, he gave a curt nod. "Good. I'll reconvene with you all if needed. You're dismissed—except for you, Blake."
The others filed out, leaving Blake alone with Lance. Blake leaned against the desk, his arms crossed as Lance retrieved a chest from a hidden compartment in the corner. He set it down between them with a deliberate slowness, the soft clink of metal filling the room.
Blake raised an eyebrow. "What's this?" he asked, his voice laced with suspicion.
Lance smiled, his usual calm demeanor now tinged with a sense of anticipation. "I knew you'd ask for these eventually," he said, flipping open the chest.
Inside, a collection of shimmering stones radiated a soft, unique energy. Blake's eyes widened in surprise as he recognized them instantly—Mega Stones. A gift, but not just any gift.
But Blake knew that, neither Lance nor the League had any idea on what these stones were. They just know that Blake is interested in them, and they took the first opportunity to use that… fucking vultures!
Lance leaned in slightly, eyes glinting. "You can take them. The League won't pursue it. Consider it a gift, Blake."
Blake's lips curled into a smirk, but there was something sharper in his eyes. He wasn't one to be easily swayed. "What's the catch?" he asked, voice dripping with suspicion.
Lance sighed, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "You don't trust me, even after all these years?" he teased, though there was a trace of self-mockery in his tone.
Blake's expression remained impassive, his eyes narrowing as the tension in the room thickened. Lance exhaled, shifting slightly before continuing, his words slower, heavier. "The Elders… they want to know if they can take Alduin back to—"
Lance didn't get to finish his sentence.
Blake's demeanor shifted instantly, a low growl bubbling in his throat. His eyes narrowed, and the temperature in the room seemed to rise as an aura of raw, destructive power emanated from him. Even Lance, who had faced countless Dragon-Type Pokémon, felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end.
Blake's voice, when it came, was low, dangerous, and laced with a warning. "What did you just say, Lance? You better think carefully about your next words…" His hand shot out, and a Poké Ball appeared in his palm, its patterns shifting with an ominous glow.
Lance's gaze flicked down to the Poké Ball, his hand instinctively reaching for the one hanging from his necklace. He knew exactly what Pokémon was inside that ball.
But Lance wasn't a rookie, and he knew Blake well enough to read the situation. This wasn't the first time Blake had been provoked, and Lance had learned how to diffuse the tension.
With a quick, calming gesture, he raised both hands. "It's not what you think, Blake!" Lance said quickly, a nervous chuckle escaping him.
"They're not trying to take Alduin back permanently, they just want him to start a breeding program…"
Blake's nostrils flared, but he held his ground. His eyes glinted with fury, and his body radiated barely contained power. Lance knew that only the right words would keep the situation from escalating.
"They insisted on having Alduin breed with some of the Dragon Den's Pokémon," Lance continued, his voice softening slightly. "They're not looking to keep him. This… this is just the initial offer to begin negotiations. The Blackthorns are ready to pay a great price."
Blake's fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. His eyes burned with anger, but his momentum was slightly loosened by Lance's words. "You lizard bastards really know how to get on my nerves…" Blake muttered under his breath, his voice low and venomous.
Lance chuckled awkwardly, trying to ease the tension. He knew full well about Blake's history with his Clan—and he knew how much Blake despised them.
And it wasn't really Blake's fault… The Elders didn't ask for things; they demanded them.
Even with this case… there was no request… the elders demanded Alduin be brought back…
They'd always treated Alduin as if he were still theirs. But Lance wasn't about to demand anything of Blake—not unless he wanted to end up as a permanent fixture in the League's medical ward.
Blake's annoyance was clear. "I don't force my Pokémon to be breeding machines," he stated, his voice steady and cold. "If Alduin takes a liking to one of their Pokémon, fine. But I'm not stepping foot in Blackthorn's territory."
Lance's shoulders relaxed slightly at Blake's words. "Fair enough," he said. "We'll bring the Pokémon to your ranch, then."
Blake's smirk returned, but it held an edge to it. "Also, you said the Blackthorns are ready to pay a great price, right? Well, I want your help with something else," he said, his tone casual but with a hidden menace. "Get in contact with Unova. I want a Larvesta. A shiny one, if you can manage it."
Lance blinked, his face contorting in confusion. "A what? A shiny Larvesta? What the hell are you—"
Blake's smile only grew, his gaze sharp as a blade. "Just make it happen, Lance."
Lance opened his mouth, still baffled by the request, but then he couldn't help but laugh. "Alright, alright… I'll get it done. You're lucky I owe you." He sighed, rubbing his temple in frustration. "But do I really have to contact Unova? They're a pain to deal with. Their League is a bunch of stuck-up—"
Blake shrugged nonchalantly. "Not my problem, jackass! If it were easy, I wouldn't be asking you, would I? I could fly there myself and grab the best of the crop. And I would have done just that if you didn't beg me to not start a war..."
Lance sighed deeply, massaging his forehead. He knew he had dug this hole himself. "Please don't even joke about that... ARCEUS! Fine! It'll be done… You will get your Larvesta... Shiny Larvesta."
Blake grinned, the satisfaction clear on his face. "Excellent!" he said, turning toward the door as he walked out. "Happy to do business with you, Lizard Boy."
"I hate you…" Lance muttered from behind him, causing Blake to chuckle, the sound ringing through the hall.
'I might have gotten played…' Lance thought silently…
…
…
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A/N: Hello Ladies and Gentlemen, Lumi here,
Sorry I uploaded a few hours late, I partied hard last night and just woke up xD I will be uploading the Naruto fic in 10 hours... Need to do some work and then edit that chapter.