On July 23rd, Year 199 of the Alliance Calendar, just two days remained before Naoki would embark on his journey to explore the ancient ruins.
That morning, Naoki decided to evaluate the progress of the special training the Cyclizar and Dragonairs had undergone with Koraidon over the past few weeks.
The Dragonairs were in good form. Their training had been incorporated into playful exercises, and each had mastered one or two new moves over the last fortnight. Cyclizar, however, had approached its training with an entirely different attitude—focused and intense.
When Koraidon had first offered to mentor Cyclizar, the latter had been stunned. Koraidon, after all, usually maintained a detached attitude, neither overly close nor too distant from it.
Cyclizar initially thought Koraidon was joking. But upon realizing the sincerity behind Koraidon's offer, it resolved to give its all to the training.
Now, weeks later, the results of that effort were ready to be showcased.
Standing on the lush grass of the pasture, Cyclizar confidently displayed the moves it had learned under Koraidon's guidance. Its first demonstration was a high-speed charge, leaping into the air and using its entire body to press down on an imagined opponent.
"That looks a lot like a physical move with overwhelming force," Naoki observed, making a mental note.
Watching Cyclizar execute the maneuver, Naoki noticed a resemblance to Koraidon's Collision Crash—a move that also involved leaping high and slamming into the opponent with great force.
"Good work, keep it up!" Naoki encouraged, jotting down Cyclizar's progress in his notebook.
The Pokémon then proceeded to demonstrate its other newly learned moves. Time seemed to fly as Cyclizar showcased its full repertoire over the next ten minutes.
When it finally completed its final move, Naoki glanced at the detailed notes in his journal:
[Name]: Cyclizar
[Personality]: Playful, naive, determined. Lately, it seems inspired to grow stronger like Dragonite and Koraidon.
[Hobbies]: Sunbathing, chasing butterflies, and happily assisting with chores.
[Favorite Foods]: Grilled steak, Naoki's secret sandwich, fresh fruit juice, and MooMoo Milk.
[Mastered Moves]: Crash, Screech, Rapid Spin, Dragon Tail, Agility, Wide Guard, Quick Attack, Acrobatics, Double Hit, Body Slam, Gear Shift, Dragon Pulse, Dragon Rush, Outrage, Iron Head, Giga Impact.
As Naoki reviewed the list, two moves stood out to him: Gear Shift and Agility—both speed-enhancing techniques.
A curious thought crossed his mind. "Just how fast could Cyclizar go if it pushed itself to its limit?"
Intrigued, Naoki turned to the Pokémon. "Cyclizar, show me how you use Gear Shift."
"Raao!" Cyclizar chirped, its determination evident. The wheel-like structure on its chest began to glow with a brilliant white light, spinning rapidly like a high-performance motorcycle engine.
"Now run!" Naoki instructed.
Cyclizar took off, dashing across the grass at a stunning speed.
"Impressive!" Naoki marveled, taking notes.
He then instructed Cyclizar to stack Gear Shift and Agility for maximum speed before running again. The Pokémon concentrated hard, buffing itself to the limit.
When Cyclizar took off this time, it became nothing more than a blur, disappearing from Naoki's sight in an instant.
"What incredible speed!" Naoki muttered in awe. He recalled reading in the Pokédex that Cyclizar's top speed could reach 120 km/h. Now, seeing it in action, he had no doubts about the claim.
Cyclizar's speed was a clear asset. In battle, it could easily use this to dodge attacks, close the gap with an opponent, and launch moves like Dragon Tail or Iron Head for devastating impact.
Satisfied with the demonstration, Naoki called Cyclizar back and explained his thoughts: "Speed is your greatest strength. During battles, use it to outmaneuver your opponents. In professional terms, this strategy is called 'kiting'—keeping your distance while wearing them down."
Cyclizar tilted its head quizzically. "Raao?"
Before Naoki could explain further, Koraidon yawned lazily from its spot on the grass, catching his attention.
An idea struck him.
"Instead of explaining, let's practice," Naoki decided. "Koraidon, would you mind being Cyclizar's sparring partner? I'll direct Cyclizar in a mock battle against you."
Koraidon blinked, looking slightly annoyed at the sudden request. But after a moment's hesitation, it gave a resigned nod and rose to its feet, positioning itself on the grass.
The Cyclizar's expression was brimming with determination as it faced Koraidon.
The battle officially began!
Cyclizar versus Koraidon—a test of speed and strategy. With Naoki's command, Cyclizar used Breaking Swipe, a Dragon-type move, as its opening strike.
Cyclizar darted forward, its sturdy tail glowing faintly before sweeping toward Koraidon in a wide arc.
Koraidon, true to its cooperative nature, remained motionless, acting as a stationary target for the demonstration.
As soon as the attack landed, Naoki issued the next command: "Create distance! Don't let your opponent close in on you!"
Cyclizar immediately retreated, using its impressive speed to circle around Koraidon.
"Go again—this time, use Dragon Claw and pull back just as fast!"
With incredible agility, Cyclizar charged in once more, claws glowing with dragon energy. After landing a precise hit, it leapt away to safety.
These two quick exchanges seemed to spark understanding in Cyclizar. Its movements became more deliberate, its confidence building.
Naoki took the opportunity to explain further: "Do you see now? This is called a kiting tactic. Your speed is your greatest strength. Use it to maintain distance, strike decisively, and retreat before your opponent can retaliate."
"Gah!" Cyclizar nodded, its eyes gleaming with determination as it began to comprehend the strategy.
"Want to try it on your own?" Naoki asked with a grin.
Cyclizar nodded eagerly. It waited for the right moment, then bolted forward, closing the distance to Koraidon in an instant. Its claws shimmered as it raised them high, preparing to strike with Dragon Claw.
But this time, Koraidon moved.
Though Cyclizar was incredibly fast, Koraidon's movements were even faster. Before the Dragon Claw could connect, Koraidon deftly caught Cyclizar's arm and, with a burst of strength, tossed it aside.
Cyclizar tumbled across the grass, stunned by the sheer speed and power of its opponent.
Naoki observed the interaction with a mixture of amazement and understanding. Koraidon had rarely displayed its full capabilities before. It was clear now just how much faster and stronger it was compared to the young Cyclizar.
"Let's stop here for now!" Naoki called out, signaling the end of the battle.
Cyclizar got to its feet, covered in dust, and walked back toward Naoki, its expression slightly downcast.
"Gah…" it murmured softly, clearly disappointed at its inability to match Koraidon.
Naoki crouched down and gently patted Cyclizar's head. "It's okay. You're only one and a half years old—still so young. There's plenty of time for you to grow stronger."
Cyclizar's eyes brightened at the reassurance. It nuzzled Naoki's palm affectionately, its fighting spirit reigniting. It turned to Koraidon, its expression full of resolve, silently promising to grow stronger and challenge it again.
Koraidon, observing this, let out a conflicted but understanding sigh. "Raao…"
Cyclizar tilted its head, momentarily confused by Koraidon's tone.
Naoki, standing between the two Pokémon, looked at them both and laughed. "That's right! You two should get along from now on—after all, there's a lot you can learn from each other."
Cyclizar looked at Koraidon with a happy expression. "Raao!" it chirped, its eyes full of gratitude.
Although Koraidon had a fearsome appearance, Cyclizar had come to recognize its kind heart. For the longest time, Cyclizar had wanted to befriend Koraidon, but Koraidon's cold demeanor had kept it at bay. Only recently had things begun to change.
Koraidon glanced at Naoki, then back at Cyclizar, and gave a reluctant nod. "Raao…" it sighed, a mix of acceptance and amusement in its tone.
...
Later that evening, Naoki logged into the forum to consult with Raifort'
[Gold King: Only two days left until the expedition. Is there anything I need to prepare?]
Raifort was online and replied almost immediately.
[Ancient Explorer: No need. I've already prepared everything. Just bring your best Pokémon with you.]
[Gold King: Got it. Where should we meet?]
[Ancient Explorer: Let's meet in Cascarrafa City. I've found some ancient records indicating that the capital of the Paldea Empire is buried beneath the sands of the Great Desert.]
The Great Desert? That was just south of Kosaji Town!
In the Pokémon games, it was a vast expanse of sandy terrain where legendary paradox Pokémon, Great Tusk and Iron Treads, roamed freely after escaping the depths of Area Zero.
[Gold King: Understood. I'll meet you in Cascarrafa City.]
With their plans set, Naoki logged off and began preparing for the expedition.
The desert was an unpredictable place, and while Raifort had assured him she would handle most of the preparations, Naoki decided to gather additional supplies, just in case. He purchased dust goggles for sandstorms, an ample supply of water and food, a compass, and warm clothing to combat the desert's freezing nights.
Naoki also carefully selected his Pokémon for the journey. Aside from Koraidon, he decided to bring Slugma for warmth, Gogoat, and a Psyduck.
In case their luggage is lost due to a sandstorm or something, they can also use Slugma to keep warm, drink goat milk to restore their strength, and let Psyduck use a water gun to replenish water.
After all the preparations were completed, the agreed deadline arrived.
On July 25, Alliance Calendar Year 199, Naoki finished making arrangements for his ranch before setting off. He mounted Koraidon and made his way to Cascarrafa City, known for its shimmering waterways and nickname, "Water Town."
Upon arriving, Naoki spotted Raifort waiting on the top floor of a tower near the city's central fountain. She stood poised, scanning the endless desert with a telescope. The golden expanse of sand stretched as far as the eye could see, shimmering under the blazing sun.
Raifort was dressed in a rugged brown-and-yellow expedition suit, complete with dust goggles and sturdy boots. Her confident stance and prepared gear gave her an air of seasoned professionalism.
As Naoki and Koraidon approached, Raifort lowered the telescope and smiled. "You made it," she said warmly. "Are you ready?"
"Are we heading out now?" Naoki asked, surveying the desert ahead.
Raifort nodded but scrutinized Naoki's casual attire. Without a word, she reached into her bag and pulled out a matching expedition suit. "Put this on first," she instructed. "The desert isn't forgiving, even to experienced travelers."
Naoki quietly took the expedition suit from Raifort and headed to the nearby changing room. When he emerged, fully dressed in the rugged outfit, he noticed Raifort staring at Koraidon with wide, awestruck eyes.
"The Winged King of the Past… I never imagined I'd get to see such a Pokémon in my lifetime!" Raifort marveled.
Naoki chuckled. "Who knows? Maybe you'll see even more ancient Pokémon in the future."
He was thinking of the inevitable breach at Area Zero, when paradox Pokémon from both ancient and futuristic times would spill into Paldea. But Raifort tilted her head, puzzled.
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"Oh, nothing," Naoki replied nonchalantly. "I was just thinking—if Koraidon could appear in Paldea, maybe others like it will too."
Raifort considered his words for a moment before nodding. "You might be right." She didn't linger on the topic, though; her mind was already fixed on the real goal ahead.
If they could uncover the lost royal city of the ancient Paldean Empire buried beneath the Great Desert, she might also find critical clues about the four Treasures of Ruin. Those discoveries would bring her closer to determining the locations of their seals—and perhaps acquiring them herself.
"Let's move out!" Raifort declared.
To Naoki's astonishment, Raifort walked to a nearby alley and drove out in a massive, black, off-road vehicle that resembled a Tauros with its rugged build and horns painted on the front.
Naoki's jaw nearly dropped. "Isn't this a bit… over the top?"
Raifort grinned and patted the seat behind her. "Hop on, both of you!"
Naoki hesitated but climbed aboard with Koraidon, who perched carefully behind him, its tail tucked securely. The vehicle rumbled as Raifort stomped on the accelerator, and they sped out of Cascarrafa City, kicking up clouds of dust as they left the asphalt road behind.
The real adventure began as they entered the desert. The off-road vehicle roared across the sandy dunes, its massive tires carving deep trails in the golden sand. Each turn and acceleration sent a fresh cascade of sand flying behind them.
"This is too fast!" Naoki shouted, clutching the sides of the vehicle for dear life. He was sure the whole thing would tip over any second.
Raifort glanced back at him with a smirk. "Relax! Trust my driving!"
"Ruoom!"
Naoki's attention was drawn to the horizon, where he saw a plume of yellow sand billowing in the distance. Something was moving fast—something big.
He quickly grabbed Raifort's telescope to get a better look and was greeted by the sight of a herd of wild Tauros. These weren't just any Tauros; they were the fiery Paldean breed, their black fur glinting under the sun and their sharp eyes filled with fury.
"It's Tauros! A whole herd of them!" Naoki exclaimed, his voice filled with tension.
The Tauros charged through the desert with incredible speed, their hooves kicking up sand in all directions. It was clear they had mistaken the roaring off-road vehicle for a threat to their territory, and they were determined to drive it out—or overturn it completely.
"They're gaining on us!" Naoki cried, glancing nervously at Koraidon, who growled in anticipation of a fight.
Raifort glanced at the charging Tauros in her rearview mirror, her lips curling into an excited grin. "Put on your goggles!" she instructed.
Naoki fumbled to secure his dust goggles, quickly helping Koraidon adjust its own.
Without missing a beat, Raifort gripped the handlebars tightly and floored the accelerator. The engine roared like a beast unleashed, and the vehicle surged forward, its massive tires spinning faster as it barreled across the sand. The sudden burst of speed created a widening gap between them and the Tauros herd.
...
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Bonus Chapter @500PS