Garchomp. The name was synonymous with power, often associated with words like "Pseudo-Legendary," "Land Shark," and "Jet Fighter." But most importantly, it was associated with Cynthia. While others owned the species, her Garchomp was special. It had spent its entire career winning against higher-ranked opponents with crushing ease. Eventually, challengers didn't aim to beat Cynthia; they considered it a victory just to force her to call out Garchomp.
Standing before Li Yuan was that terrifying, battle-hardened shark. Just looking into its eyes, Li Yuan could feel a surge of killing intent that would make a normal person physically ill. But Li Yuan wasn't normal. He met Garchomp's icy gaze without flinching. The boy and the shark stared each other down until Cynthia patted its head.
"Alright, settle down. We have business to do," Cynthia said, soothing her partner. Garchomp was a naturally fierce species and rarely showed a kind face to strangers. Only before Cynthia did it act as gentle as a house cat.
"Char! (The kid has guts. Is he your new boyfriend?)"
Garchomp seemed surprised by Li Yuan's lack of fear. It was also the first time she had seen her mistress alone in a room with a boy, surrounded by coffee and snacks like a private date.
"Don't let your imagination run wild. This is a move master I've invited specifically to teach you Dragon Dance. Don't be rude," Cynthia said, rolling her eyes at the "land shark." Her partner had become obsessed with matchmaking ever since Cynthia's mother had started nagging her about marriage.
"Char? (Dragon Dance? Again?)"
Garchomp's eyelids twitched. She had tried to learn that move countless times, only to fail every time and question her own existence as a Dragon-type. She was already strong; why obsess over that one move?
"Don't worry. This time is different. If it still doesn't work, I won't force you again," Cynthia promised.
"Char! (You said it. This is the last time!)"
Garchomp's voice was full of resentment. Cynthia turned to Li Yuan. She truly hoped this boy wouldn't bring her another disappointment.
"Char~ (Kid, show me what you've got. If you succeed, I don't mind giving you a chance to pursue Cynthia.)"
"Is it a deal?" Li Yuan asked.
"Char~ (Has this shark ever lied?)"
"In that case, let's make it even better. Besides Dragon Dance, I can help you master Dual Abilities—allowing you to stay conscious and in control even during an Outrage."
"Char? (A sober Outrage? That sounds interesting. What do you want in return?)"
"Simple. If any other men try to get close to Cynthia, you help me block them. How about it?"
"Char? (That's all? I'd do that anyway. No one gets near my Champion.)"
"Then close your eyes. I'll use my Aura to guide your latent power."
Li Yuan placed his hand on the shark's rough skin, injecting a unique energy to guide its potential. The boy and the shark entered a state of meditation, leaving Cynthia standing there, utterly flabbergasted.
Are you two out of your minds? she thought. Conspiring to block other men right in front of me? Do you think I'm invisible?
She felt betrayed by her own Pokémon. They were "trading" her off for a few skill developments. She wanted to protest, but seeing them both in a deep state of training, she missed the window to speak. If she didn't say something now, would it be seen as silent consent for Li Yuan to pursue her?
This kid... he's too clever for his own good! He specifically chose to start the training now so I couldn't reject the deal!