Pokemon: The Gameboy Effect-Chapter 221: Mega Gardevoir!

(A/N: New Legend: Kieron Haydon! Bonus Chapter unlocked — carrying the team like a champ!)

As the vibrant energy enveloped Gardevoir, a powerful transformation took place. When the light faded, standing before John and Saul Badman was Mega Gardevoir.

At first glance, the difference wasn't drastic, but Mega Gardevoir's new form resembled an elegant black wedding dress. Its short blue hair shimmered under the arena lights, and the white earrings complemented the crimson heart on its chest. Unlike an ordinary Mega Gardevoir, this one was a Shiny Pokemon, exuding a mysterious and commanding presence.

"Mega Evolution..." John exhaled, feeling the deep connection between himself and Mega Gardevoir. For the first time, he truly sensed the unity of their hearts and minds.

Thinking of Gardevoir's emotions, he felt an unexpected surge of warmth. He had spent so much time trying to understand what it wanted, only to realize that their desires had always been aligned. It was a realization that solidified their bond even further.

It was no surprise their friendship had reached the highest possible level of trust.

Saul Badman watched his student with a knowing smile. It was as if he had foreseen this moment. He spoke with a calm yet firm voice, "Every Pokemon has different dreams and ambitions. However, for certain species, it's not difficult to understand what's truly in their hearts."

He glanced at Mega Gardevoir. "For a Pokemon like this, its trainer—especially one it shares a bond with—is everything. To protect its beloved master, it would risk its life without hesitation."

John nodded, deep in thought.

"Remember this when facing other Pokemon," Saul continued. "Learn what drives them, and you'll know how to align your strategies with their desires."

Back on the battlefield, the moment Mega Evolution was complete, the outcome was practically sealed.

Mega Gardevoir's Special Attack had skyrocketed, and the psychic energy it wielded had transformed. What had once been thin, tendril-like projections of energy now took the shape of twisting, spear-like branches, sharp enough to pierce steel.

In a single strike, it shattered Machamp's Protect, breaking through the wave-like aura that shielded it. The attack connected, forcing Machamp to stagger backward.

Though the hit wasn't enough to knock it out, John had achieved what his teacher had asked of him—he had landed a clean hit on Machamp. And most importantly, he had done so through sheer power rather than relying on Power Split.

Considering the defensive formation of Machamp and the other five Pokemon that had been guarding it, breaking through was no small feat. Gardevoir had proven itself beyond doubt.

Saul clapped. "Not bad. If you have this kind of strength, I have no concerns about you competing for a Gym position."

John turned toward him, eyes widening in surprise. "Compete for a Gym position?"

"Actually, I have another suggestion for you," Saul continued, a sly grin forming. "It's a tougher path, but if you succeed, you could skip the competition altogether and secure the position outright."

"What do you mean?" John asked, intrigued yet cautious.

"What if you challenged the current Gym Leader before they retired?"

John blinked. "Wait, what?"

He knew exactly what Saul was suggesting. Normally, a Gym Leader's retirement triggered a competition where trainers vied for the vacant spot. But Saul was proposing something different—challenging the Gym Leader before they stepped down. If John won, there would be no need for a competition.

It was an unprecedented move, and honestly, it almost sounded like his teacher held a grudge against the Gym Leader, refusing to let them retire peacefully.

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"But, Teacher, I don't have a top-three placement in major tournaments. I can't officially challenge a Gym Leader," John pointed out.

Saul smirked. "That's true. But there's no rule preventing a Gym Leader from challenging you."

John stared at him, puzzled. "How would that even work?"

"Prepare yourself. When you return after the holiday, I'll personally introduce you to the retiring Gym Leader," Saul said with a gleam in his eye.

John could tell that Saul had already made up his mind. It seemed that after witnessing his battle, the veteran trainer had decided there was no need for him to go through the usual process. Instead of competing against other hopefuls, he would face the highest challenge from the start.

"By the way, what are your plans for the New Year?" Saul asked.

"My parents are traveling abroad, so I'll be staying at school," John replied.

"Is that so? Then how about celebrating with me?"

"Really? Wouldn't that be an inconvenience?"

"Not at all. I live alone. It'll be nice to have company."

John hesitated at first, but after a moment, he nodded. "Alright. I'd be happy to."

Saul reached into his sleeve and pulled out a small red string with two silver bells attached. Judging by the worn-out patina, the bells had been around for quite some time.

"Here. This is for you."

John looked at it curiously. "What is it?"

"A special item. Years ago, I encountered the legendary Pokemon Mesprit, the Guardian of Emotion. This is a Soothe Bell blessed by it. Unlike ordinary ones, this isn't just for Pokemon—it's meant for trainers as well. With it, you'll be able to hear Pokemon's voices more clearly and even resist mental attacks."

John's eyes widened. "This... I can't accept something this valuable!"

He had assumed Saul would give him some ordinary held item, but this was on an entirely different level. Items like Miracle Seeds and Sun Stones were valuable, but this was in a league of its own.

Even more than that, John could tell that this Soothe Bell carried great sentimental value for his teacher. Saul had kept it for decades—likely 40 or 50 years. To him, it was probably priceless.

"Take it," Saul said, pressing the string into John's hand. "I have no use for it anymore."

John hesitated. "Are you sure?"

Saul chuckled. "I don't need a Soothe Bell to understand my Pokemon anymore. Our bond is already beyond such things."

Hearing those words, John finally accepted the gift, vowing to honor both the item and the lessons his teacher had given him.

This New Year was shaping up to be far more eventful than he had expected.