Klein and Agatha hosted the inspection team, guiding them through the various facilities of the Kanto Branch School. Among them were the new data analysis system and the Move Learning Simulator—both technologies that were lacking in the Sinnoh region.
"Move Learning Simulator?"
Cynthia's gaze fell on the massive 3D helmet device before her. It resembled a VR headset, connected to a machine that looked similar to a CD player.
"This is a unique learning method. Compared to traditional training where Pokémon master new moves, its advantage lies in the ability to construct virtual scenarios."
For a Pokémon to fully grasp a new move, a proper scenario is crucial. The Move Learning Simulator functions as a simplified version of Klein's dreamscape system. By integrating the 3D helmet with the CD machine, Pokémon can master new techniques within a simulated dream state.
Klein had spent a significant amount of time developing this device. He had already coordinated with Devon Corporation to distribute it in the Hoenn region. The CD components, however, were single-use consumables, priced at an outrageously high cost.
Devon Corporation was certainly capable of producing reusable CD machines, but for the sake of profit, they opted for single-use models instead.
Currently, most known moves within the Pokémon League database had been integrated into this system—and they were free to access.
"Moves like Thunderbolt, Flamethrower, and Ice Beam—twenty in total—are available at no cost. This applies not just to the school but to trainers worldwide. However, some moves require special application."
"I'm impressed, Mr. Klein. Not only are you an exceptional trainer, but you also designed such a groundbreaking device. But remember, this is only the first step in mastering a move. To truly unleash its full potential in battle, you must continue to refine your skills."
Noticing that some students were looking envious, Cynthia offered words of encouragement.
For instance, the Electric-type move Thunderbolt varies in strength depending on the trainer. A regular trainer might only ensure their Pokémon learns the move, but for an advanced trainer, this is merely the beginning. Take Ash's Pikachu, for example—its Thunderbolt far surpasses the average Electric-type Pokémon's.
Only through relentless training can true strength be forged.
Although the students understood Cynthia's message, their immediate priority was to check which moves would be best suited for their Pokémon. Expanding their Pokémon's offensive coverage was always a wise decision.
A limited movepool with poor coverage? That would be a painful disadvantage in battle.
—
"This is the new Pokémon Center's ecological zone? The area is incredibly vast! And to have set aside such a space in the harsh climate of Cinnabar Island—truly impressive."
After finishing the tour of the new technology, Klein and Agatha led Cynthia to the ecological park behind the newly established Pokémon Center.
Nurse Joy, who was assigned to this area, smiled as she released several Pokémon, allowing them to roam freely within the park.
"This Nurse Joy doesn't seem very familiar with the Pokémon here," Cynthia observed.
"That's because she was recently transferred. She's still getting to know the Pokémon in this area," Klein explained without hesitation.
Cynthia acknowledged this with a simple "Oh," making no further comment. It was understandable, given that the ecological zone had only just been established. A little unfamiliarity was to be expected.
—
After the large inspection group had departed, Rosa happened to approach, carrying a stack of supplies. Suddenly, the DNA Splicers within her body reacted strangely, causing her to feel uneasy.
"Rosa, are you okay?"
"It's nothing… I just feel a little anxious."
Seeing her expression, Nurse Joy chuckled. "The Elite Four member just passed by. Maybe they gave you a bad vibe."
"Ugh, arrogant people like that can be so annoying. Right, Emboar?"
Hearing this, Emboar scratched its head in confusion, unsure how to respond. Meanwhile, Serperior let out a huff, clearly displeased.
In such a rush to leave, huh?
No, wait—Serperior, let me explain…
At the same time, Klein also felt his DNA Splicers reacting. He stopped in his tracks, deep in thought. A nearby staff member noticed and asked curiously, "Elite Klein, is something wrong?"
Is it Lucas?
Or… Rosa?!
A sudden realization struck Klein. Just as he was about to turn back and investigate the ecological zone, he found himself face-to-face with Cynthia, who was leaning in close and studying him with great interest.
"Miss Cynthia… is something the matter?"
"You have a unique aura about you… Hmm, I feel like I've encountered it somewhere before."
Cynthia's words had an unintended effect—Agatha shot Klein a strange look.
In reality, Cynthia had noticed the DNA Splicers' imprint on Klein. As a scholar well-versed in Sinnoh's history and mythology, she was far more than just the region's Champion. She had also traveled extensively, including to the Unova region, where she had visited the Giant Chasm.
The familiarity she mentioned referred to the power associated with Kyurem.
—
"Have the Pokémon Center pull up the recent records of all trainers registered in this area."
Something about the situation unsettled Klein. He wanted to review the photos of recently arrived trainers on Cinnabar Island, hoping to find a lead on Rosa.
—
Meanwhile, in Viridian City, inside Giovanni's office…
Watching the televised battle featuring Silver, Giovanni let out a small, satisfied smile. Naturally, he wouldn't miss his own son's match.
However, at that moment, the office doors swung open. Upon seeing the unexpected visitor, Giovanni's joy vanished.
"Out traveling for so long, and now you finally remember to come back?"
The young man sighed. "It's not that I didn't want to return. It's just that the world is vast, and the more Pokémon I encountered, the more I realized how small I used to be. The ambitions of Team Rocket seem so… trivial."
Giovanni's expression darkened at the remark. "I paid you to travel the world and train, and this is how you repay me?"
"Haha, my bad, boss. But I still think Team Rocket's ambitions are too low-level. Plenty of other organizations are trying to destroy the world."
At the mention of these apocalyptic groups, Giovanni's lips curled into a smile. "That's not your concern. Soon, I'll be dispatching three elite members to different regions to clear the obstacles in our way."
"Three elites?"
"Is there really anyone more elite than me?"
At that thought, the young man jotted down a note in his personal records, looking pleased with himself.
"Miyamoto's daughter, the eldest son of the Blue Rose family, and that Meowth who can speak human language—they're the strongest trio in Team Rocket."
"Huh? Those three are even more 'bottom-tier' than me, and yet you have so much faith in them?"
Giovanni shook his head. "Instructor Viper has already designated them as Team Rocket's most promising newcomers. They aren't weak; they simply prefer to stay hidden."
Miyamoto possessed a unique constitution granted by Mew, and her daughter, Jessie, had inherited an extraordinary vitality. Meanwhile, James was naturally attuned to Grass-type Pokémon, marking him as anything but ordinary.
As for Meowth, its intelligence was its greatest asset. Though it had sacrificed battle prowess, its ability to understand and communicate like a human made it invaluable.
(End of Chapter)