Chapter 155: The Golden Trait [Time Rewind]
Chapter 155: The Golden Trait [Time Rewind]
"Gardevoir?" (This skill… what exactly is it?)
Feeling the new trait within her, Gardevoir was visibly puzzled. Hikaru quickly explained the ability, breaking it down for her.
"Let's say we run into a powerful Psychic-type opponent and they're ready to unleash an overwhelming attack. We can nullify their abilities temporarily, leaving them confused and open to counterattacks. It's not the most honorable strategy… but in wild battles, this skill could be a lifesaver."
"Gardevoir~" (Hikaru, you're amazing~)
"Alright, alright. Back into the training room for now."
"Gardevoir!" (No, I won't!)
Gardevoir floated behind him, her mischievous expression peeking through the veil of her flowing hair. "I've already asked Lucario to keep watch over that little Pokémon. I want to stay with you~"
Hikaru sighed. Gardevoir's newfound assertiveness since evolving into her final form was a stark contrast to the obedient, shy Ralts and Kirlia she used to be.
"Fine, do as you please," Hikaru relented with a wave of his hand. "You're an adult now. I can't control you."
"Gardevoir~!" (Yay!)
"But you better behave," Hikaru warned.
"Gardevoir." (Of course!) She floated down to sit behind him, hands ready to massage his shoulders like a loyal attendant.
Hikaru returned to the Trait System, eyes gleaming with anticipation as he opened the semi-annual trait.
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Semi-Annual Trait
[Red Trait: Trait Duplication]
Allows duplication of an existing trait. If the trait is below red quality, it will automatically upgrade to red.
"Interesting," Hikaru muttered. "A practical one this time."
This trait was different. Instead of relying on random chance, it allowed him to target and enhance any trait he already owned. It was a valuable asset, especially for traits that were useful but underpowered.
"I'll hold onto this for now," Hikaru decided.
---
Finally, the annual trait—the crown jewel of the system. Hikaru rubbed his hands together, heart pounding with anticipation. The system's yearly trait was almost always gold, but the long wait always made him nervous.
With a deep breath, he tapped the glowing icon.
Golden light filled his vision, and Hikaru exhaled in relief.
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Annual Trait
[Golden Bound Trait: Time Rewind]
Exclusive to Psychic-type Pokémon. Select up to three targets and restore their state to exactly three hours prior. Cooldown: 24 hours.
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"Whoa…" Hikaru's eyes widened as he read the description. "This is insane."
The potential of this ability was immense. It could completely restore the state of up to three units, eliminating fatigue, injuries, or even the effects of their own devastating attacks. It was as if time itself rewound for them.
"This is perfect for you," Hikaru said, tapping Gardevoir lightly on the head as he equipped the trait.
"Gardevoir~" (You've given me another incredible ability~) She clapped her hands together, visibly delighted.
Despite the excitement, Hikaru couldn't shake a lingering sense of unease. Gardevoir's increasing affection was endearing, but it came with its own complications. Still, there was no denying the power of this new trait. Coupled with her other abilities, Gardevoir had now become a cornerstone of the team.
Satisfied, Hikaru turned his thoughts to his other Pokémon.
"Lucario could really use something like this…" Hikaru muttered to himself. "And I still need to prepare traits for the Gible egg."
He checked the timer on the egg's hatching process. 800 hours to go.
"Gible, Dragonair, Pupitar… why did I surround myself with these gold-guzzling monsters?" Hikaru sighed. "I'm going to need a miracle."
His eyes lit up as an idea struck him. "A resource-efficiency trait! Something like a 'no hunger pill' but for Pokémon energy! That's got to exist, right?"
With a new wish in mind, Hikaru refreshed the trait store. Although nothing caught his eye immediately, he remained hopeful.
After using Evergreen Energy to warm the Gible egg and checking on Mew—still peacefully slumbering under Lucario's watchful eye—Hikaru stepped out into the morning light.
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Downstairs, the innkeeper was sweeping the front porch.
"Grandpa," Hikaru called out, "can you hold this room for me? I might be back in a few days."
The old man nodded without looking up. "Sure thing."
---
The town's market streets were alive with energy. Merchants hawked their wares from street stalls, and the scent of freshly cooked food filled the air. Gardevoir and Latias—now back in her humanoid form—wandered with wide-eyed curiosity.
"So, why are the treasures sold in random stalls here and not in a central location like in big cities?" Latias asked, tilting her head.
"That's the difference between a small town and a major city," Hikaru explained. "Here, individual trainers bring back treasures from expeditions into the wild or from nearby dungeons. Selling them directly avoids middlemen."
As he spoke, the cheerful atmosphere shifted. A commotion broke out further down the street.
"Stop that Bulbasaur! It's been stealing from us again!" a vendor shouted angrily.
The shout was followed by the sight of a small, green Pokémon darting through the crowd, clutching a bag of fruits in its vines.
"Bulba!" (Catch me if you can!)
The mischievous Pokémon weaved skillfully between legs and stalls, clearly familiar with the market's layout.
"Looks like trouble," Hikaru said, stepping forward. "Let's see what's going on."
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