Chapter 134: Chapter 134: Should I Take a Dratini Home?
Chapter 134: Should I Take a Dratini Home?
After a while of flying over the ocean, the Dragonite slowed as they approached an area of raging storms.
Without hesitation, the Dragonite dove straight into the storm.
"Don't worry, big bro, it's just an illusion," Sakura reassured Hikaru with a lighthearted tone, sensing his concern.
Sure enough, as they passed through the storm, the scene transformed.
Beyond the storm was a hidden island, surrounded by misty walls from the inside.
So, this is Dragon Island?
The Dragonite landed gracefully, and the two other trainers returned their Dragonite to their Poké Balls.
Meanwhile, "Eighteen," the Dragonite that had accompanied them, waved its tail and disappeared into the forest.
---
At the island's edge, Hikaru's eyes widened in awe.
Dratini, Dragonair, Seel, Dewgong, and Spheal...
Rare Pokémon of all kinds roamed the area.
Among them, Dratini and Dragonair were the most numerous.
As the group landed, these Pokémon gathered around them, drawn by curiosity.
"Alright, alright, I know you're all excited," Sakura said gently, crouching to greet the Pokémon with a warm smile.
Judging by her interactions, it was clear she had a close bond with them.
Meanwhile, a few Dratini curiously circled around Hikaru, intrigued.
They seemed puzzled as to why this human lacked Dragon Tamer Power.
Hikaru quickly picked up on their feelings through Aura Vision.
Though he didn't possess Dragon Tamer Power, he had Evergreen Force—a power equally capable of calming Pokémon.
Releasing a gentle wave of Evergreen Force, Hikaru soon found himself surrounded by friendly Dratini.
"Woo~"
Hikaru smiled and reached into his bag, pulling out some Dragon-type energy cubes he had made for Latias.
"Woo? Woo!"
The Dratini and Dragonair eagerly accepted the treats, their affection for Hikaru growing stronger.
Hikaru, in turn, admired them.
Among the Dratini and Dragonair, even the lowest had the potential of Elite, while several were Champion-tier—a rarity in the outside world, but commonplace here.
"Big bro, are you interested in taking a Dratini home?" Sakura asked, approaching him with a playful tilt of her head.
"..."
Before Hikaru could respond, one of the older trainers stepped forward.
"Little sister, Dratini are unique to Dragon Island. This..."
The trainer glanced at Hikaru, his expression neutral, but Hikaru could sense a hint of hostility through Aura Vision.
"...friend isn't part of the Hayashi family. Strictly speaking, he shouldn't even be here."
Though the trainer spoke politely, his words were pointed.
It was no secret that both he and the other young man were top-tier talents within the Hayashi family.
Dragon Island's Dragon Pool opened twice a year, in July and October, but there were only four spots available each time.
This limited availability inevitably led to competition.
Unlike other families, the Hayashi family didn't base selection solely on rankings.
Every direct descendant was guaranteed at least one chance, with subsequent entries determined by the progress of their Pokémon after the first visit.
This time, the older trainer, Hayashi Ten, was making his second visit.
However, the fourth slot, which was meant for his younger sister, had been given to Hikaru instead.
Naturally, he harbored some resentment.
"Dragon Island is still a secret realm," Sakura countered, feigning innocence. "Why can't he capture a Pokémon here?"
Hayashi Ten frowned but couldn't find a suitable retort.
He turned his gaze to Hikaru, clearly expecting an explanation.
Sakura, however, stepped between them.
"Father and Uncle Lance both approved, so Hikaru being here isn't an issue! Besides, sister Hayashi Myou can come in October with the same results."
"They..."
Hayashi Ten sighed bitterly.
They only agreed because of you.
Even Sakura knew she was pushing boundaries, but she was determined to have Hikaru join her on this trip.
"Alright, Sakura," Hikaru said, stepping forward and gently ruffling her hair.
Though unsure of the specifics, he could sense the tension.
It was clear that his inclusion had disrupted the usual arrangements, likely denying another Hayashi family member their slot.
"Big bro..."
"It's fine. Sir, could we have a word?" Hikaru asked, addressing Hayashi Ten.
Hayashi Ten raised an eyebrow.
As the winner of the National High School League, Hikaru's reputation preceded him.
The idea that a small-town trainer could rise to such prominence in just a year was nothing short of extraordinary.
Moreover, Hayashi Ten had heard tales of Hikaru raising Sakura after she went missing.
It was no surprise that she stood by him.
Still, Hayashi Ten couldn't shake the feeling that Hikaru was being overly indulged.
However, Hikaru's willingness to step forward and address the situation directly earned him a sliver of respect.
"Very well. Let's talk."
---
As Hikaru led Hayashi Ten away for a private conversation, Sakura watched him go, a mix of admiration and concern in her eyes.
Hikaru's calm demeanor and willingness to stand up for her didn't go unnoticed.
For the first time, Hayashi Ten felt a hint of curiosity about the boy who had earned the unwavering support of his prodigious younger cousin.
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