Lu Ye's expression turned peculiar.
He was all too familiar with that name.
The former Champion of the Hoenn Region, who passed the title to Wallace, then dedicated himself entirely to mining.
If he didn't find any stones, well… he'd just go home and inherit billions.
Even in terms of looks and temperament, he was on par with Teacher Lu.
Lu Ye couldn't help but sigh deeply.
D**n life winners!
The manager adjusted his glasses and respectfully said:
"The Vice President also instructed us to bring you another contract."
"I believe this gift from the Vice President... will surely satisfy you!"
Lu Ye blinked in surprise.
Last time, his 5,000,000 Pokedollars debt was largely due to purchasing Steven's stones.
What was he up to this time?
The manager stood up, placed two contracts and an exquisite wooden box in front of Lu Ye.
Opening the box, a spherical gem with a shimmering purple glow rested quietly on a soft cushion.
[Toxic Orb: A rare orb filled with poisonous mist. When held by a Pokémon, it induces poison status. (Best paired with Poison Heal for optimal effect.)]
The accountant explained:
"Your Pokémon is Haunter, and we've heard that this orb is perfect for its training."
"Additionally, the Toxic Orb is valued at 2,000,000 Pokedollars."
The accountant smiled. "Considering legal tax avoidance, this is the ideal choice for both of us."
Lu Ye's expression grew even more bizarre.
Although Koga's Toxic Insights did mention it…
But who the h*** needs something like this?!
What if it accidentally kills someone while lying around the house?
I was planning to use that 2,000,000 Pokedollars to pay off debt!
Liang Dayou nudged Lu Ye and whispered:
"Take the stone, Lu bro. Haven't you always wanted to boost Haunter's power?"
"Money can be earned back... You won't find such a good thing again!"
Lu Ye's eyelid twitched.
The manager smiled. "The Vice President specially instructed us to bring this to you."
"Just like the Dusk Stone you bought last time, this is also one of his private collections!"
The manager couldn't help but marvel.
Everyone knew of the Vice President's love for stones.
Yet, he was still willing to sell his treasures to this young man.
Clearly, this was a Trainer worthy of a Champion's friendship!
Lu Ye was stunned.
Steven was too considerate!
Just because Cynthia casually mentioned it last time, he remembered until now?! But the thing is... I'm just trying to make some easy money!
Lu Ye asked hesitantly:
"Can I not take the Toxic Orb and just get the 2,000,000 Pokedollars?"
"Of course." The manager nodded. "You just need to sign this contract."
Just as Lu Ye picked up the pen, a red light flashed from his Poké Ball.
Haunter, drawn out by the scent, floated to the box, drooling profusely.
"Haunter(¯﹃¯)"
"Your Haunter seems very interested in the Toxic Orb." The accountant smiled.
Lu Ye's face stiffened.
"Haunter! (✪ω✪)"
Haunter's eyes sparkled, pointing eagerly at the Toxic Orb and grinning at Lu Ye.
"Lu bro, you should just take the Toxic Orb," Dayou whispered.
"2,000,000 Pokedollars is nothing; you can earn it back in a few months."
"The important thing is… this item is priceless!"
At that moment, Lu Ye felt like a parent in a toy store.
Their kid clung to a 10,000 Pokedollars limited edition Gundam while the sales assistant praised: "Your child has great taste!"
A poor household couldn't handle such strain!
Lu Ye let out a long sigh.
Forget it... I'll make it up to Haunter later.
"Haunter! (๑´ㅂ`๑)"
Haunter's eyes gleamed with a 2,000,000 Pokedollars smile, pure and warm.
Lu Ye imagined Haunter's disappointed face.
His hand trembled.
Just as he was about to sign, he slammed the pen onto the table.
"Pack up the Toxic Orb!" Lu Ye declared firmly.
What's wrong with buying my kid a toy?!
A mere 2,000,000 Pokedollars.
I refuse to believe I won't be able to pay off Cynthia in this lifetime!
The contract was signed.
Lu Ye slumped on the sofa, dazed with regret.
"Haunter! o(*≧▽≦)ツ"
But Haunter flew excitedly around Lu Ye, happily massaging his shoulders.
Lu Ye sighed helplessly.
"Fine... I'll just pretend I got a free Toxic Orb..."
"It's still a good deal," he said, voice trembling.
"Good call, Lu bro."
Dayou patted Lu Ye's shoulder.
Spending 2,000,000 Pokedollars a Pokémon item…
That's true dedication!
Who else but Lu bro could be a Trainer?!
Lu Ye forced a smile and stood up shakily.
The manager and accountant stood to see him off.
"Don't worry about the international and mobile versions," the manager said with a smile.
"I'll relay your thanks to the Vice President!"
Lu Ye paused, clenched his teeth, and smiled:
"Give my thanks to Steven Stone!"
"Will do!" The manager laughed heartily.
Leaving Devon Corporation, the scorching heat outside made Lu Ye feel ice-cold.
Dayou chuckled. "You're so happy you can't speak!"
"Even the Champion knows you… This year's university championship is definitely yours!"
"From your lips to Arceus' ears."
Haunter stored the 2,000,000 Pokedollars Toxic Orb into its Poké Ball.
Even so, Lu Ye felt a chill run down his spine.
According to the Pokédex, the Toxic Orb could poison a Tauros in seconds!
Though harmless to humans... body types vary.
What if Lu Ye's constitution was closer to a Pokémon's?
Wouldn't that be game over?!
"I better supervise Haunter's training..." Lu Ye muttered.
"Maybe even review Toxic Insights."
With Koga's insights, absorbing the Toxic Orb would be easy for Haunter.
Still, Lu Ye worried.
Haunter would train secretly anyway, so he had to ensure its safety.
Who'd have thought signing a contract would turn into this?
Are Champions really this idle every day?!
One Cynthia was bad enough, now Steven too?
Lu Ye sighed deeply.
"Well... 2,000,000 Pokedollars is still manageable!"
Back home, a red light burst from the Poké Ball.
Haunter proudly stuck out its tongue, displaying the deep purple Toxic Orb.
"Haunter(*⊙~⊙)!"
Haunter's crimson tongue twirled around the orb, nodding like a connoisseur.
Lu Ye's face twitched.
Great, now you're a God Tongue too!
"Haunter!"
Haunter flaunted the orb, flying around Squirtle and Eevee.
Eevee pouted, turning away disdainfully. "Vee!"
It's just a gift. Who cares!
"Squirtle..."
Squirtle's eyes gleamed with envy, but it just scratched its head sheepishly.
Lu Ye coughed and reassured them:
"Don't worry, you two will get yours too…"