As a phenomenon exclusive to the Paldea region, Terastallization stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Mega Evolution, Z-Moves, and Dynamax as one of the Pokémon world's defining "special systems."
Its effects are extraordinary, allowing a Pokémon to temporarily change its type. Whether transforming a Dragon-type into a Fairy-type or a Fire-type into a Water-type, the possibilities are endless.
Along with this type change comes a Same-Type Attack Bonus (STAB) for the new type's moves, greatly enhancing the Pokémon's combat potential.
In the current timeline of the Paldea region, as Eric knew, Terastallization had already been researched and developed by Professors Sada and Turo.
However, due to the limited availability of raw materials, the system had yet to be widely implemented. During his battle with Geeta, neither of them had used Terastallization.
While Geeta, as the Top Champion, undoubtedly had access to a Tera Orb, Eric did not.
Now, in his hands was a pristine Tera Orb Raw Core, encased in a shimmering crystalline shell formed by the underground energy unique to Paldea.
Its value was immense so much so that selling it could lift Eric from the brink of poverty back into comfortable living.
Sell it to Geeta!
The idea flashed through Eric's mind.
However, before he could act on it, the Special Prompt System went berserk, flooding his vision with messages:
[I know you're thinking of selling it. Don't. You. Dare.]
[With this, your Pokémon's strength can improve even more! Why would you sell it?]
[Please, I'm begging you not to sell it. I promise I'll help you with your farm construction in return!]
[This is my one and only request!]
"…"
"Stop begging, just how desperate are you? This is the first time I have seen a system like you!"
[You know other systems?]
He ignored that but Eric was speechless. 'What kind of pitiful, desperate system was this? It made me feel like I was bullying it'
"Alright, fine. I'll keep it. But only if you promise to always be at my service when I need a prompt."
[Of course! No problem at all!]
The system's delight was practically tangible, as its messages practically danced across Eric's vision. Sighing, Eric accepted the system as part of his life.
It seemed harmless and even amusing at times a decent companion to stave off boredom.
---
After helping Swampert move all the dusty furniture and boxes outside to air out, Eric gave his Pokémon a fist bump and grinned. "Thanks for your hard work. We'll have a big feast tonight. For now, take a well-deserved rest."
Swampert nodded and gently tapped its Poké Ball, returning itself in a flash of red light.
Stretching his arms, Eric glanced around the area. The dusty furniture and the now-opened boxes lay scattered across the ground.
After thoroughly examining the contents, he found little use mostly old photographs of the elderly couple who once owned the land.
Eric decided to bring these mementoes to their graves later.
In one of the boxes, he also found several unlabeled bags of seeds likely for flowers or other plants. Unfortunately, the seeds were no longer viable.
They hadn't been preserved properly, and even if they had, too much time had passed.
The only real treasure was the Tera Orb Raw Core in his hands.
Turning it over thoughtfully, Eric hesitated before taking out his phone and dialling a number.
Ring… ring.
The call was quickly answered.
"Well, this is a surprise. What made you think to call me today, Champion Eric?"
The voice on the other end belonged to none other than Geeta, the Top Champion and Chairwoman of the Paldea League.
"I've retired, Chairwoman. Just call me Eric," he corrected, exasperated.
Geeta, unfazed, let out a soft chuckle. She had been keeping an eye on Eric ever since his rise to prominence.
Their conversations had grown more casual over time, and Eric spoke to her without the nervousness others might feel.
"So, what's the reason for this call?" she asked, her tone curious.
Eric got straight to the point. "I found a Tera Orb Raw Core. I'd like your help in getting it forged into a usable Tera Orb."
Geeta's demeanour immediately shifted to seriousness. A Tera Orb Raw Core was an extremely rare find. The fact that Eric wasn't looking to sell it but instead wanted it crafted meant he hadn't entirely given up on the path of a Trainer.
A plan quickly formed in Geeta's mind.
Clearing her throat, she said with a smile, "Arranging that is no problem. However… do you know how expensive it is to craft a Tera Orb?"
Eric froze. 'Wasn't a Tera Orb supposed to be standard equipment for new Trainers in the future? How expensive could it possibly be?'
Then it hit him. This was the early days of Crystallization. Mass production hadn't yet begun, and the technology hadn't been optimized.
Just like cutting-edge tech in his previous world, materials and production costs were astronomical in the experimental phase.
"Uh… how much would it cost if I provided the raw material?" he asked cautiously.
Geeta smiled. "Selling the land you just bought should just about cover it."
"Sssss…" Eric drew in a sharp breath. Forget it! He couldn't afford to sell his land not even for this.
Just as he was about to abandon the idea, Geeta interrupted, her tone taking on a playful edge. "But it's not an unsolvable problem."
Eric's ears perked up. "What's the catch?"
"I'll cover the cost of crafting the Tera Orb, but I have one condition."
"What condition?"
"In exchange, I want you to take on a position as a Battle Instructor at Naranja Academy in Mesagoza. Our current instructor is on leave, and as the Academy's Chairwoman, I've been struggling to find a suitable replacement. You're perfect for the role."
Eric hesitated. 'Teaching? Wouldn't I be a terrible influence on Paldea's future Trainers?'
Before he could decline, Geeta added, "The position only requires two battle classes per week, so it won't take up much of your time. Mesagoza is close to your location, and with your Dragonite, it's a short commute. Plus, I'll pay you a regular instructor's salary, which can help fund your farm."
Eric's resolve wavered. Her offer was almost too good to be true. Short hours, extra income, and a free Tera Orb without compromising his dream of running a peaceful farm.
Was there any reason to refuse?
None.
"Alright, Chairwoman. When do I start?"
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Thank you for reading!