Chapter 78: Chapter 78: Heading to Saffron City
In the training room, Machamp was furiously throwing punches at a speed so rapid that only a blur of afterimages could be seen.
If not for Ron possessing the enhanced perception granted by his "Fighting Aura," he wouldn't have been able to discern Machamp's movements at all.
As Machamp adjusted to its newly evolved body, Ron began testing the limits of his own Fighting Aura.
At first, Ron believed Fighting Aura only had the effects of recovery and observing the levels of opponents. That was until he discovered it could provide insight into a Pokémon's potential during their evolution.
This revelation made him wonder: could the activation of Fighting Aura during evolution improve a Pokémon's talent and potential? Previously, he hadn't noticed this effect, likely because it had been imperceptible at the time.
But now, why was he able to feel the enhancement of Machamp's potential so clearly? Was it because he himself had grown stronger?
The more Ron pondered, the more he believed this to be true. The most likely reason? The "Golden Spirit Fruit" he had consumed.
Thanks to the fruit's enhancement, his physical capabilities had improved significantly, almost rivaling the results of his consistent training since arriving in this world.
The combination of the fruit's effects and his training had deepened his mastery over Fighting Aura. Alternatively, it might be that as he grew stronger, his Fighting Aura also became more potent.
Previously, the enhancement provided by Fighting Aura during evolution might have been subtle and difficult to detect due to his weaker state. But now, with his increased power, the improvement in his Pokémon's potential became more evident.
Though he didn't fully understand how Fighting Aura enhanced his Pokémon during evolution—perhaps such mystical power was beyond scientific explanation—he began to speculate. Could the gentle nurturing of his Fighting Aura, when applied consistently over time, also yield results outside of evolution?
This thought ignited a fiery determination in Ron's heart as he glanced at his Pokémon with a passionate gleam in his eyes.
Machamp, still adjusting to its evolved strength, suddenly felt a chill down its spine. Turning around slowly, it met Ron's fiery gaze.
That gaze—oh, that gaze!—was unforgettable for Machamp.
Although Ron hadn't done anything strange to it back then, Machamp had always felt its trainer's interests were… unconventional.
After Bellossom joined the team, Machamp had stopped overthinking it—at least Bellossom didn't pose any issues in terms of gender compatibility.
But now, seeing Ron's gaze reignite, Machamp couldn't help but feel uneasy. Was Ron about to lose control?
Should it take Persian and Nidorino out for some air, or at least make a symbolic effort to intervene before leaving?
Fortunately, Ron wasn't aware of Machamp's thoughts, or it would've been the one lying on the chopping block.
After all, who could bring themselves to scold an obedient and adorable Bellossom or a well-mannered and considerate Ralts?
Contrary to Machamp's vivid imagination, Ron acted entirely normal afterward, simply using Fighting Aura to nurture Nidorino.
Compared to the seasoned Machamp or the already nurtured Ralts, the weaker Nidorino made an ideal subject for experimentation.
After a full day of trials, Ron did notice a slight improvement in Nidorino's potential. Though subtle to the point of being almost imperceptible, it was undeniably progress.
This meant that, in addition to recovery and observation, Fighting Aura could gradually enhance a Pokémon's potential over time.
While the process might be slow, it ensured that none of Ron's Pokémon would ever be limited by their innate talent or potential.
This alone made Ron an invaluable asset in the eyes of any faction.
Unbeknownst to him, Ron's reverse scale had grown thicker—if anyone discovered the true extent of his Fighting Aura's capabilities before he gained sufficient strength, they would have to die!
Otherwise, his fate would be that of a tool stripped of freedom—a fate worse than death.
With his mindset adjusted, Ron decided against seeking opponents for battles, opting instead to dedicate an entire day to training in the room.
Thanks to the adjustable weights available, Machamp quickly adapted to its evolved body and was ready for battle at any moment.
The following morning, Ron set out for Saffron City, his sights set on earning the Gold Badge from the Saffron Gym.
Before reaching Saffron City, his plan was to encounter as many wild Pokémon as possible to help Machamp train and prepare for a breakthrough to mid-tier elite strength.
Shortly after leaving Lavender Town, Ron noticed two figures quietly trailing him.
After walking along the League-developed route for some time, Ron veered into a nearby forest.
Seeing this change of direction, the two figures hurriedly followed, releasing their Pokémon in the process.
Once inside the forest, Ron picked up his pace and frequently changed direction, forcing his pursuers to quicken their steps and preventing them from finding a suitable opportunity for an ambush.
"Machamp, it seems we don't need to search anymore. We've got two Pokémon delivered right to our doorstep."
Ron's voice echoed, causing the two figures to freeze in fear, rooted to the spot.
Unbeknownst to them, Persian had appeared behind them, standing upright with its claws gleaming menacingly near their throats.
Arbok and Weezing froze in shock. Just as they were about to intervene, Machamp stepped in to block their path.
Meanwhile, Bellossom deftly confiscated the trainers' belongings, while Ralts and Nidorino stood guard on either side of Ron.
If anything went awry, Ralts was prepared to use Teleport to protect Ron.
Despite its low level, Ralts's mastery of Teleport significantly boosted Ron's survival odds, far more so than the Gastly he was still nurturing.
Judging by their Pokémon, one might have mistaken these two for members of Team Rocket.
In reality, however, they were genuine trainers. Unlike League trainers like Ron, these trainers bought their Poké Balls and caught or purchased Pokémon on their own, earning them the nickname "Bug Catcher Trainers."
Compared to League trainers, these independent trainers received no benefits and were barred from participating in League events like the Indigo Plateau Conference.
However, the League did offer them opportunities—by completing enough missions and accumulating sufficient contribution points, they could qualify for a selection task. Passing this would grant them League trainer status.
As for these two trainers' intentions in following Ron, it was simple: they were after his Ralts.
To secure resources, many independent trainers resorted to becoming Pokémon hunters in secret. A Ralts could fetch a high price in the hunters' guild.
Unfortunately for them, their poor judgment not only got them caught but also cost them dearly.
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