CHAPTER 8

Aoki opened the system interface, scanning the system log for the silver treasure chest reward he had just obtained from capturing Froakie.

In the system, treasure chests were primarily found with Pokémon, appearing after defeating them. Occasionally, they were hidden in special locations, such as the Birch Institute or even his old home. Aoki had long suspected that the diamond treasure chest back home was actually a novice gift pack. But that was a mystery for another time.

[Congratulations, host! You have successfully opened a silver treasure chest and obtained: Eye of Data, Celadon/Rainbow Fruit.]

Aoki's eyes gleamed. He instantly understood the significance of the Eye of Data—his extensive knowledge of old Pokémon research materials had not gone to waste. This ability likely functioned similarly to Pokédex data but provided more precise insights into Pokémon stats and potential.

Curious, Aoki focused on Froakie. Instantly, a data panel materialized in his vision:

Name: Froakie

Abilities: Protean, Torrent

Type: Water

Strength: Intermediate

Potential: Champion

Moves: Pound, Growl, Bubble, Quick Attack, Water Pulse, Double Team

Egg Moves: Hydro Pump, Psybeam

Aoki's excitement surged. A Champion-level Pokémon! As long as Froakie received proper training, it could undoubtedly reach the pinnacle of strength. However, if raised poorly, even Pokémon with immense potential could stagnate. Many pseudo-legendary Pokémon failed to live up to their potential due to inadequate training.

Even more astonishing was Froakie's dual abilities. While Torrent increased Water-type move power by 50% when HP was low, Protean allowed Froakie to change its type to match its attacks. This meant it could adapt mid-battle—turning into a Ground type when using Earthquake to counter Electric-types, or a Ghost type with Shadow Sneak for immunity to Normal-type moves.

"As expected of a Shiny Pokémon!" Aoki muttered, barely containing his excitement.

Once it evolved into Greninja, it would be a force to be reckoned with. And if it underwent Bond Phenomenon, it could rival even pseudo-legendaries.

He also noted Froakie's Egg Moves—Hydro Pump and Psybeam. It was fortunate that Torchic had taken Froakie down quickly; had it launched Hydro Pump in battle, Torchic might have been instantly knocked out.

Froakie, noticing Aoki's intense gaze, tilted its head smugly.

"Gugua~!" ("I know I'm cool, but stop staring. We can't be together.")

Aoki's face darkened.

If not for its incredible potential, two abilities, and Shiny form, he might have reconsidered capturing this narcissistic Pokémon. If he were to bond with a Pokémon, it would be something like Gardevoir, not a self-absorbed frog.

Cough, cough… He was getting sidetracked.

Shaking off the thought, Aoki turned his attention to the second reward—Celadon/Rainbow Fruit.

This was a crucial ingredient for making Celadon Pokéblocks, an Advanced-tier Pokéblock superior to the beginner ones he had been using. There was also a Rainbow Pokéblock, a top-tier version that boosted Pokémon comprehension of mysterious powers, making it particularly effective for Elite and even Champion-level Pokémon.

Unfortunately, he hadn't gathered all the ingredients for Rainbow Pokéblocks yet, as some were incredibly rare.

Still, Celadon Pokéblocks were a great asset. Boss Lairon would benefit tremendously, and both Torchic and Froakie would see accelerated growth.

"Brother Aoki, congratulations!"

May beamed with joy, genuinely happy for him.

Aoki smiled and ruffled her hair affectionately. He was truly in a good mood.

With Froakie on his team, he was now one step closer to training a Champion-tier Pokémon.

"By the way, we've been in the forest for a few days. It's time to move on. Let's make our way out soon."

He saw no more Pokémon worth capturing nearby—most were Gym-level at best, far below what he needed. For now, he was only interested in Pokémon with quasi-Elite potential or higher.

"Okay!" May responded cheerfully. Right now, she just wanted to stay by Aoki's side.

After packing up, they set off along the river, heading upstream.

Aoki's goals were clear—train Torchic and Froakie while scouting for valuable Pokémon. The dense forest held many possibilities. Perhaps he would encounter a Treecko or another strong Grass-type.

After all, as a traveler, he should have at least one starter from each region.

Additionally, Aoki kept an eye on the system interface, watching for treasure chests. If he found a high-tier chest, it could lead to rare Pokémon or powerful items—just like Froakie had.

By nightfall, he hadn't encountered any major finds, but there was no regret.

After all, today's gain was already incredible—a Shiny Froakie, destined to evolve into a Shiny Greninja with Champion-tier potential.

Aoki grinned to himself.

"My Froakie… will be a future Champion."

He shook off the thought and turned to May.

"It's getting late. Let's set up camp and continue tomorrow."

"Okay!"

Together, with Torchic and Froakie, they set up the tent, while Boss Lairon gathered wood for the fire.

As the flames flickered under the night sky, the group sat around enjoying a warm meal.

Froakie, Torchic, and Boss Lairon ate enthusiastically, savoring the freshly prepared Celadon Pokéblocks.

Boss Lairon quickly finished its portion and glanced at the two younger Pokémon.

Froakie hesitated for a moment before handing over one of its Pokéblocks.

"Gugua~" ("Here, big bro.")

"Larrrr!" (Thanks!), Boss Lairon rumbled appreciatively before swallowing the treat in one bite.

As the night deepened, everyone settled in, Pokémon and humans alike drifting into a peaceful sleep.

Tomorrow would bring new challenges, new discoveries, and another step closer to Aoki's ultimate goal—becoming a top-tier Trainer and Researcher.