Chapter 56: BP Points and Item Exchange
"I'm the Factory Head, Noland. I won't lose when it comes to knowledge!"
"Just as I analyzed, you really came! I'm so excited! Let's begin!"
"According to my calculations, your chance of winning is—0%."
When Cynthia and Caitlin arrived at the scene, they found that Link's battle with the Battle Factory boss had already ended. He had ultimately defeated Noland's Legendary Birds—Zapdos, Articuno, and Moltres—with a team of Pelipper, Swampert, and Tyranitar.
Frankly, compared to the tourists whose moves were unpredictable, the last rounds against the AI and Noland were far too easy. Link could predict the optimal moves of the AI with his eyes closed, dragging the battle into a game of "rock-paper-scissors" where he always held the advantage.
"Switch to human intervention, I mean it," Link told the staff after the battle. "You can't win a battle just by knowing math. Emotions and randomness always influence people's thinking."
The Battle Factory was fun, but Link probably wouldn't be coming back. He left the arena with his Fennekin and went to collect the Gold Commemorative Stamp and BP (Battle Points) earned from his 49-win streak.
BP can be used to exchange for various Trainer Items. Link rushed to the hall and flipped through the list. Items like "Leftovers" and "Choice Scarves" didn't seem to exist in reality—perhaps they required master craftsmen to create. However, items like Weather Rocks, Gems, and Training Devices were available.
"Exploration Backpack, Nutritional Supplements, Fire Stone, Red Card, Utility Umbrella, Power Bracers, Macho Brace (Forced Training Device), and TMs like Surf, Defog, and U-turn—just enough to use up all my BP."
Link quickly left the facility to avoid the temptation of battling more. It was afternoon, so he booked tickets to the Scenic Area (Resort Area). While waiting in the park, he let his Pokémon out.
Finizen (Water Dolphin) happily played with the Macho Brace, hanging it near its tail. The device used technology to limit a Pokémon's power, forcing them to spend more energy and thus training them harder.
"Eek~" Finizen was satisfied. Ever since it left the deep sea, it missed the pressure of the water; this device made it feel like it was back in the deep ocean.
"Training should be done in moderation," Link sighed.
Litten confidently snatched the Power Bracer, but Link took it back and placed it around Litten's neck. "When you evolve into Incineroar, you can wear it as a wristband."
Litten looked disgusted, its movement restricted as if its fur was being flattened. "Meow!"
Fennekin looked a bit disappointed that there was no item for her.
"You don't need these. The Fire Stone isn't for you yet either. What you need is to expand your move pool," Link explained. "Once you've learned enough, this Red Card will be yours."
The Red Card forces an attacker to switch out after they hit the user.
"But with your psychic powers, you can hide this card on the opponent or set it as a trap," Link added. "In your hands, a mere Red Card can change the whole battlefield."
Fennekin nodded, seemingly understanding. It wasn't as good as an Eject Button, but for now, it was a powerful tool.
(End of Chapter)