Pokemon: I Transmigrated Twice-Chapter 203: Pokemon: I Transmigrated Twice []

The battle between Steven and Diantha, at its core, was nothing more than an exhibition match.

The focus was on making the battle visually appealing while determining the winner.

After exchanging a few rounds of moves and showcasing stunning visual effects, both Steven and Diantha tacitly slowed down their pace.

Thunderous applause erupted from the audience.

Among the four known Pokémon enhancement methods that Stephen was aware of, Mega Evolution was neither the most convenient nor the method with the greatest amplification of power. However, it was undoubtedly the most spectacular.

There was no doubt about it—after this exhibition match, a global craze for Mega Evolution was bound to emerge.

After the exhibition match concluded, it was time for the official press conference.

As of now, there were only five trainers in the world known to possess Mega Evolution—or more precisely, to have unlocked Mega Evolution. Stephen, Karen, Steven, Diantha, and Drasna were all present at the conference.

However, compared to Drasna, a former champion who had stepped back from the front lines, it was clear that the other four younger trainers were much more popular.

"Mr. Steven, your Metagross has not only recovered from its old injuries but has also awakened Mega Evolution. What happened during that process?"

"Champion Diantha, many fans online claim that you lack the strength of a true champion and that using Mega Evolution to break through to champion-level battles is essentially cheating. Do you agree with this statement?"

"Dr. Stephen, can you explain the principles of Mega Evolution to us?"

"Miss Morgan, as the only one among Dr. Stephen's companions to have obtained Mega Evolution so far, how do you feel at this moment?"

Diantah raised an eyebrow slightly, her expression colder than usual. She replied with a hint of sharpness: "According to those people, we might as well stop letting Pokémon evolve altogether, or stop training them with humans entirely. Let them grow freely then because apparently, that's cheating too."

Stephen smirked subtly.

Indeed, among the regional champions of the future, Diantha would be considered on the weaker side.

But accusing someone of cheating by using Mega Evolution was utterly absurd.

"Doctor, could you elaborate on the principles of Mega Evolution?"

Sensing Diantha's sour mood, the reporters quickly shifted their focus to Stephen.

"Mega Evolution transcends the limits of Pokémon evolution, allowing them to reach an even higher level," Stephen explained. "There's still a lot to study, but what I can tell you is that Mega Evolution requires both a Key Stone and a Mega Stone. Each Mega Stone corresponds to a specific type of Pokémon. For example, Champion Diantha's Gardevoirite is for her Gardevoir, while Mr. Steven's Metagrossite is for his Metagross."

Stephen gave a summary.

"Why was Miss Morgan the first to obtain Mega Evolution? Does this indicate a fallout between you and Miss Nessa?"

Stephen smiled and replied: "Mega Evolution requires the Pokémon's inner strength and the trainer's bond with it to reach a certain level. Without this, it's easy for the Pokémon to lose control. I treat all my girlfriends equally and don't favor one over the other."

He recalled Korrina and her Lucario as a prime example of what could go wrong.

As for Nessa, if she wanted to achieve Mega Evolution, she would need to continue training.

Besides, Stephen suddenly remembered that Mega Blastoise relied on a turret-based combat style, which didn't suit Nessa's current Water-type martial arts battle approach.

If anyone were to Mega Evolve, it should be Swampert.

Another big blue Pokémon.

Hearing Stephen casually refer to his girlfriends, the press erupted in murmurs, while Karen rolled her eyes discreetly.

"What other Pokémon can Mega Evolve?"

"This is still under investigation," Stephen replied. "Aside from the known ones like Gardevoir, Houndoom, Metagross, and Altaria, just this morning, Professor Sycamore from the Kalos region informed me that he discovered a Mega Stone resonating with Garchomp. As of now, we've only confirmed five Pokémon capable of Mega Evolution. More research is needed. That's all I know for now. The Key Stones and Mega Stones originate from the Kalos and Hoenn regions, so good luck to all trainers watching from home!"

Stephen stood up, and Karen, Steven, and the others followed him as they left the stage.

...

Later that evening, back on the Aether Paradise artificial island.

Chairman Rose once again ordered his staff to prepare a luxurious banquet.

After learning from Stephen that Charizard also had a Mega Evolution, Rose was in an excellent mood.

This meant Leon's ace Pokémon could become even stronger.

However, it wouldn't be surprising if, in a couple of years, Leon decided to switch to a new ace Pokémon.

"Mudkip? No problem!"

At the banquet, upon hearing Stephen's desire to find a high-potential Mudkip for Nessa, Steven cheerfully gave an OK gesture. freēnovelkiss.com

Steven took out his phone and said with a smile: "It's perfect timing. Old Man Swamp from the Mudkip Swamp breeding center recently told me they've discovered a very large Mudkip egg. I'll arrange to have it sent to Gym Leader Nessa as a gift."

Mudkip Swamp was a specialized breeding facility under the Hoenn League, focused on raising Mudkip for beginner trainers.

It was somewhat similar to Johto's Charicific Valley.

A very large Mudkip egg?

Stephen blinked.

Could it be the same Mudkip that Brock once had?

Stephen remembered that Brock's Mudkip was also caught at Mudkip Swamp, and its size was significantly larger than average.

Although Stephen held a favorable impression of Brock, if he managed to intercept one of Brock's future Pokémon, he wouldn't feel guilty about it.

Just like how Stephen had recommended Ash's Greninja to Serena.

While Brock hadn't exactly wasted his Mudkip's potential, it was undeniable that its talent had gone largely untapped.

Especially when compared to Ash's Sceptile and May's ace Blaziken during the Hoenn region arc, Brock's Mudkip, which only evolved into Marshtomp, seemed pitiful.

After all, without much deliberate training, Marshtomp was already able to overpower May's Eevee.

If properly trained, it should at least reach Elite Four-level strength.

"Stephen, you're so good."

Nessa stood on her tiptoes and gave Stephen a smooch on the side of his face.

This left Steven feeling quite awkward.

"Steven, can you tell me about Mega Evolution?"

In order to escape the couple's public display of affection, Steven quietly moved a bit farther away from Stephen and Nessa but was immediately called over by Lance.

Steven was slightly surprised.

From his impression, Lance was never the type to actively initiate conversation with others, let alone with someone he wasn't particularly close to.

However, as two of the most affected from the last Indigo League battle, they still had plenty of shared topics to discuss.

Among them, what Lance cared most about was the two key points: Mega Evolution and whether Xerneas could help heal his Dragonair.

"Stephen-kun, thank you so much."

While Stephen and Nessa were enjoying their moment, Chairman Goodshow approached with a smile, raising a glass to Stephen. "Thanks to you, the League has gained a new strength."

Stephen shook his head. "It's too early to say that. After all, today's news announced Mega Evolution to the world. Now, everyone knows about its existence, including... certain individuals."

The certain individuals Stephen referred to were well understood by everyone present.

A fleeting look of worry flashed in Goodshow's eyes beneath his white brows, but the very next second, he smiled again. "But no matter what, I still have to toast to you. You've made another contribution to the harmonious development of humans and Pokémon."

After clinking glasses with Stephen, Goodshow glanced at Lance, who was engrossed in conversation with Steven, and added, "Besides, your discovery of Mega Evolution has given Lance hope too."

"Huh?"

Stephen was momentarily stunned, not understanding what Gooshow meant.

Goodshow explained, "Actually, ever since Lance's Dragonite—his lifelong companion—ended up in that state, Lance has been in a very suppressed mood. No, suppressed doesn't even begin to describe it. But after learning that Xerneas healed Steven's Metagross and discovering Mega Evolution, hope has finally returned to Lance's heart."

Truthfully, after the Indigo League battle and the conclusion of the Alola Friendship Tournament, seeing Lance's condition genuinely made Goodshow worry about his mental health.

With Goodshow's explanation, Stephen finally understood.

In the end, it was the appearance of Xerneas and Mega Evolution that had given Lance something to look forward to.

At that moment, Stephen overheard the conversation between Steven and Lance nearby:

Steven: "Lance, there's no need to rush into studying Mega Evolution. After all, it's still uncertain whether Dragonite can even Mega Evolve."

For what seemed like the first time since the Indigo League battle, Lance smiled. "How could it not? If Metagross can Mega Evolve, and Garchomp can Mega Evolve, then Dragonite can too!"

Oh? That... makes some sense.

Metagross and Garchomp, as pseudo-legendary Pokémon of Hoenn and Sinnoh, both had Mega Evolutions.

It really wouldn't make sense if Kanto's pseudo-legendary, Dragonite, didn't!

Even Steven had to admit that Lance had a point, so he stopped arguing.

Hearing this, Stephen's expression turned a little strange.

Lance's reasoning did seem logical.

But the problem was... Johto's Tyranitar, Hoenn's Metagross, Salamence, and Sinnoh's Garchomp—these pseudo-legendaries all indeed had Mega Evolutions.

But Kanto's pseudo-legendary, Dragonite, really didn't.

Stephen hesitated over whether to break this harsh truth to Lance.

In the end, he decided against it—there was no benefit to doing so, and it might even stir up unnecessary trouble.

Besides, even without Dragonite, Lance's team still had three Pokémon capable of Mega Evolution.

It should be fine... right?

While Stephen was chatting with Goodshow, Lorelei had struck up a conversation with Nessa.

This surprised Nessa, as she wasn't very familiar with Lorelei.

"You don't mind?"

Lorelei asked.

"Mind what?" Nessa blinked.

Lorelei glanced toward another nearby table, where Karen was standing, with Mary clinging to her like a little sidekick. Her meaning was clear.

"Stephen treats me well and is an outstanding person," Nessa replied succinctly, making her stance clear.

"...I can't understand that."

Lorelei sighed.

"Miss Lorelei, you can't have it both ways," Nessa said with a faint smile.

An excellent man, treated her well, and could make her stronger—what was there to be dissatisfied with?

As for his flaws... to put it bluntly, if Stephen had no such tendencies, she wouldn't have even had the chance.

Meanwhile, Cynthia, watching Stephen and Goodshow talk, found herself unable to stay calm.

To be honest, she had a theory in her heart.

But the more she saw Stephen achieving success, the less she dared to voice her suspicions.

"Champion Cynthia, there's something I'd like to discuss with you."

While Cynthia was lost in thought, Professor Sycamore, the Pokémon Professor from the Kalos region, approached her to strike up a conversation.

...

...

Alola's "Manalo TV Station":

]"Dr. Stephen, as the first champion of the League, has once again solidified his position as the leading researcher on the Pokémon continent. His discovery of Mega Evolution will usher Pokémon battles into a new era."]

Galar's "Gate TV Station":

[In an interview, Rose stated, "Not having Dr. Stephen in Galar is our greatest regret. But rest assured, citizens of Galar, I've already learned from Dr. Stephen that Charizard also can Mega Evolve. This means Leon's strength will be further enhanced. In two years, he will grow to stand on equal footing with Dr. Stephen."]

Hoenn's "Mauville Daily":

["In just one day, the number of travelers heading to Hoenn and Kalos has surged. Dr. Stephen has single-handedly boosted tourism in both regions. Unfortunately, most of these travelers are likely to return empty-handed, as Dr. Stephen has revealed that Mega Stones and Key Stones are extremely rare."]

Kanto's "Saffron TV Station":

["Chairman Goodshow has announced that the Indigo League will spare no effort in finding Mega Stones for the Four Elite. With the Indigo League's vast resources, it's believed that the power of the Elite Four will soon reach a new level, further cementing its status as the 'foremost League.'"]

Just as Stephen had anticipated, after the announcement of Mega Evolution, a wave of tourism flooded Kalos and Hoenn.

Although it was said to be tourism, in reality, it was a search for Key Stones and Mega Stones.

To be honest, Stephen didn't think the average person would have much luck acquiring these items.

One of the major drawbacks of Mega Evolution was the sheer rarity of the stones.

And let's face it—could an ordinary citizen with a mere pickaxe possibly compete with corporations like Devon and Team Flare hiring workers to search for them efficiently?

...

Two weeks later.

On Aether Paradise, in Stephen's room.

Stephen found himself experiencing what it felt like to play as Kratos from the game God of War in his past life.

Karen and Mary cosplayed as Gardevoir and Kirlia, respectively, keeping Stephen busy all night.

However, Mary was still quite young, so aside from teasing, most of her time was spent just watching.

When Stephen entered the living room, he found Will sitting on the sofa watching TV.

The two knockoff yellow rodents were, as usual, sitting at the dining table, using the second-generation Pokédex to play a game that featured royal battles.

When the turn-based battles in Pokémon Game were first introduced, they were met with heavy criticism from the natives of the Pokémon world.

"How could Pokémon battles be like this? You hit me, then I hit you?"

But as they played more, many found themselves hooked.

Some even became obsessed with researching dirty tactics, like "Protect, don't Protect, Protect," or "Switch, don't switch, switch positions."

Although such strategies were useless in real battles, they were quite entertaining for casual play.

"Why haven't you left yet?" Stephen curiously sat down next to Will.

This guy had said last week that he'd be heading to Kalos or Hoenn to search for Mega Stones.

"I spoke to Professor Sycamore from Kalos and Professor Birch from Hoenn. I asked them to notify me if they found a Mega Stone for Gardevoir or Slowbro, and in return, I promised to owe them a favor. They agreed to help me look."

Will grinned.

"Do you have that much influence?" Stephen raised an eyebrow.

Even if those two found something, wouldn't they prioritize trainers from their regions?

"Ahem! You're underestimating me. Let's not forget I'm the third strongest trainer in the Alola League!"

Will avoided making eye contact with Stephen.

In truth, the condition he had offered was, "If your region faces any trouble in the future, I'll team up with my companions to help."

As for who these companions were, there was no need to elaborate.

Hearing Will's terms, Sycamore and Birch readily agreed.

Of course, Will had his calculations.

In his view, the Kalos region was generally peaceful. Historically, its few crises mainly involved Yveltal causing trouble from time to time.

But now that the Cocoon of Destruction was in Stephen's possession, there shouldn't be any problems.

Hoenn, on the other hand, had plenty of strong trainers and no known major criminal organizations—so it should be fine... right?

Thus, he dared to offer such a vague promise.

And if Stephen didn't want to go in the future, Will could always request Karen or someone else instead.

After all, he'd only said companions, not specifically Stephen.

If they misunderstood, that wasn't his fault.

If Stephen found out about this, he'd say, "You're a freaking genius."

To be honest, aside from Alola, Paldea, and Galar, there wasn't a single region that wouldn't eventually face problems.

At that moment, an interview on Kalos' Lumiose TV Station appeared on the screen.

Professor Sycamore, a researcher of Mega Evolution, said to the camera:

["Yes, I discovered a Mega Stone. With Dr. Stephen's help, we confirmed it to be a Garchompite. Unfortunately, although I own a Garchomp, it can't handle this power. After careful consideration, I decided to gift the Mega Stone to Champion Cynthia. After all, everyone knows she has the strongest Garchomp in the world."]

Will turned and said, "He's surprisingly generous, just giving it away."

Stephen shrugged. "Most people in this world are kind-hearted."

Although Stephen felt that this world's Pokémon League bore some resemblance to the World Government from his previous life, the two were fundamentally worlds apart in practice.

If it were some other backstabbing world, like my previous life or that group of scheming folks in the Konoha Leaf Village, I would rather let the treasure rot in my hands than give it to someone else.

At least, the ones Stephen knows are generally good people.

Of course, that's under the premise of not counting those undercover agents.

["Onii-chan~ Onii-chan~"]

Suddenly, Mary's voice rang out.

Of course, it wasn't Mary waking up. This was the new ringtone Stephen recorded on his phone last night.

Will rolled his eyes hard, thinking to himself how ridiculous these people were.

"Hello? Uncle, what's going on?"

Seeing the caller ID on his phone, Stephen picked up and asked.

["Stephen, that old fox Pryce is about to make a move."]

Upon hearing this, Stephen's demeanor changed dramatically.

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