Pokémon: My Titles Know No Limits! [437]

Giovanni didn’t need August’s congratulations.

In fact, he felt August’s congratulations were more like mockery in disguise.

But he still accepted them with a smile, quietly adding this slight to the long mental list he planned to repay tenfold someday.

On the return journey to Jubilife Village, Gary and Ash continued bickering endlessly. Their childish arguments reminded August of two elementary-schoolers squabbling over trivialities.

Instead of immediately intervening, August secretly recorded their dispute, planning to use it as Gary’s blackmail material later.

Watching August grin so cheerfully, Gold finally understood something crucial: August’s happiness was directly proportional to Gary’s suffering.

But when he excitedly shared this revelation with Silver, Silver merely shrugged calmly. “You just realized?”

“It’s practically an open secret at this point.”

“Eh?” Gold felt dumbfounded. Was he really the last to know?

...

August didn’t immediately go to bed. Instead, he sat on his sofa, clearly waiting for something.

Half an hour passed, but the door remained firmly closed.

Nodding with satisfaction, August assumed Zinnia had finally given up.

Just as he changed into pajamas and climbed into bed, however, the door quietly opened again.

“......”

August sighed numbly, his voice remarkably calm. “Why are you late today?”

Zinnia, face still swollen, answered honestly, “My eyes were swollen, so I couldn’t see clearly. I accidentally went to Lillie’s room first.”

August nearly laughed in frustration. “So, should I reward you for your persistence in visiting me despite your injuries?”

Zinnia thought for a second, then giggled hopefully. “You’re finally lending me Rayquaza?”

“You’re hopeless…really,” August sighed, waving his hand dismissively.

Seeing Mew approaching, Zinnia frantically waved her arms. “No! Wait! Not again—!”

But her protests were futile; she was swiftly carried off by a practiced Mew.

“Seriously, she's impossible.” August turned to Gardevoir. “Gardevoir, go watch Mew. Make sure she doesn’t steal any more food tonight. Also, help heal Zinnia. She’s practically blind right now.”

Gardevoir nodded and vanished.

Ten minutes later, Gardevoir returned, holding Mew by the scruff of her neck.

Through telepathy, Gardevoir informed August that Zinnia had been successfully healed. As for Mew, she hadn’t stolen snacks, but she had raided the fridge, drinking most of a large bottle of yogurt before Gardevoir caught her.

August lifted Mew and gently shook her, clearly hearing the yogurt sloshing inside her stomach.

“Mew~” Mew attempted an adorable look, hoping to charm her way out.

August remained unmoved. “Consider this your early breakfast—no breakfast for you tomorrow.”

“Mew?!”

No! Anything but that!

...

“Why isn’t Mew eating breakfast?” Gary asked curiously.

“She ate last night,” August replied simply.

“Wouldn’t last night’s meal count as dinner, though?”

“Who’s the leader here, you or me?”

“What about Gardevoir? Still asleep?”

“She exhausted herself healing Zinnia last night. She’s still recovering.”

“Why does Eevee look so tired? Wasn't he energetic before?”

“Mew’s stomach hurt from too much yogurt, and she couldn't sleep, so she dragged Eevee into playing all night.”

“Oh…”

Just another ordinary morning conversation with Gary.

August then turned to Gary. “Right now, you and Ash each have one victory. Today is the final event. Think you’ll beat Ash?”

Gary proudly patted his chest. “Absolutely!”

August smiled lightly. “Good luck then.”

Seeing everyone finish breakfast, August stood up. This time, everyone immediately looked at him expectantly.

“First, let's congratulate once again our double-champion of this year’s Hisui Summer Camp—Giovanni!” August smiled, looking pointedly at Giovanni.

The group clapped enthusiastically.

Giovanni had forced himself to smile so many times recently that he wondered if his face had permanently frozen into this mask. At this point, he simply wanted this torment to end.

Daily congratulations to Giovanni (1/1).

“Now, onto today’s event,” August continued. “Our theme is—Pokémon Battles!”

Battles?

Instantly, everyone turned their gaze toward Giovanni, who remained perfectly calm.

“Yes, battles!” August nodded affirmatively.

“Given everyone's varying strengths, today's battles will be voluntary sign-ups divided into two categories: Youth Division and Adult Division. Choose the division freely, based purely on your own strength.”

“Despite the names, there’s no actual age restriction.”

“So, I could sign up for the Adult Division?” Gary asked carefully.

“Yes, exactly. You planning to?” August smiled slyly.

Gary shook his head vigorously. “No, no! I’ll stick with Youth Division!”

Seeing everyone’s skeptical looks, Gary hurriedly explained, “It's because I need to beat Ash—”

“I understand perfectly!” August immediately interrupted, patting Gary’s shoulder sympathetically.

Gary: “!”

Maybe you get it, but everyone else clearly doesn’t!

“Sign-ups are open with Blue now,” August announced, and everyone eagerly headed over.

After compiling the lists, Blue handed them to August.

“Youth Division: Gary, Ash, Pearl, Diamond, Platinum, Bea, Nemona, Gold.”

Though August had clarified age wasn't a factor, Brock modestly didn’t register, feeling he was too old.

Misty had mistakenly assumed this summer camp was just sightseeing, leaving all her Pokémon back at her Gym, bringing only Psyduck—practically suicide if she joined battles, so she didn’t sign up either.

Iono, meanwhile, had discovered a passion for commentary, enthusiastically volunteering as the event’s commentator.

Lillie simply lacked confidence in her abilities and declined.

Zinnia and Silver hadn't signed up either, puzzling August.

Did those two stubbornly choose the Adult Division?

He flipped the page to the Adult Division, finding only one lonely name—and no sign of Zinnia or Silver.

“Why aren’t you two competing?” August asked.

“My face hasn’t fully healed…” Zinnia mumbled vaguely, still swollen enough to make clear commands difficult.

Silver remained silent, gaze fixed firmly on Giovanni.

August immediately understood, then announced to everyone, “Adult Division: Giovanni!”

After waiting fruitlessly, Gary finally asked in confusion, “And…?”

“What ‘and’?” August asked innocently.

“Giovanni’s the only one? Doesn't that mean he wins automatically?” Gary protested, clearly dissatisfied.

“Then shall I move you up to face Giovanni?” August offered lightly.

Gary glanced nervously at Giovanni’s gentle, smiling face, shivering involuntarily before shaking his head furiously.

“Then there’s no problem.”

After convincing Gary, August explained further, “Of course, Giovanni won’t win automatically—he’ll have his own opponent.”

Gary perked up instantly. “Wait, August, you’re stepping up yourself?!”

In his mind, only August was truly capable of beating Giovanni in Kanto Branch.

Giovanni’s pupils contracted imperceptibly upon hearing this.

August avoided answering directly, dismissively waving. “Worry less about me and more about defeating Ash first.”

“Now, let’s talk about the rewards!”

“Since there are two divisions, there’ll be two champions—each receiving a carefully selected Pokémon egg, a limited-edition Team Origin Rocket T-shirt, and a box of Secret Recipe Pokéblocks!”

“Everyone, do your best!”

Giovanni’s eyes sharpened at the mention of Pokéblocks. Those Secret Recipe Pokéblocks—he simply had to have them.

As everyone prepared to leave, August suddenly remembered something important. “Oh, right. Just like before, Legendary Pokémon aren’t allowed!”

Gary instantly protested. “Even the World Championships allow Legendary Pokémon!”

August smiled mildly. “Well, I'm in charge now.”

Gary seethed. “Dammit!”

I just wanted to show off my Suicune against Ash—why’s it always so difficult?!

...

The tournament took place at the training grounds on the west side of Jubilife Village.

What was originally just a simple, painted-out field had undergone major renovations. Nestled within the valley was now a proper battle arena built to the standards of the modern Pokémon League.

Surrounding the field were newly constructed spectator stands, already filled with villagers from Jubilife Village eager to watch. Some were curious civilians, intrigued by the spectacle, while others were members of the Galaxy Team’s Survey Corps, hoping to glean useful insights from the battles.

August arrived at the reserved seats and found Captain Kamado and Koga already seated.

“Captain Kamado, finished your official duties?” August greeted him casually.

Hearing this, Koga couldn’t help but feel the question sounded suspiciously familiar—wasn't this exactly what August had once asked someone else?

Kamado laughed heartily. “I've handed most of my duties over to Cyllene. Soon enough, she’ll fully inherit leadership of the Galaxy Team. Perhaps before long, you’ll be calling her Captain Cyllene.”

August felt he was witnessing history in the making. Was this how Kamado had originally passed the Galaxy Team to Cyllene, who then passed it down generation by generation until it reached Cyrus?

However, August had no intention of altering history again. Dialga and Palkia already worked hard enough. He didn’t need to make their job even more challenging.

Turning his attention to the field, he noticed Iono had taken up the role of host and was already announcing the match-ups for the Youth Division.

Sabrina glanced suspiciously at August. “You didn’t rig the draws again, did you?”

August: “.....”

Why was Sabrina’s trust in him steadily declining? Did she really have to assume the worst every time? Couldn’t she give him the benefit of the doubt for once?

Just as he was about to righteously defend his integrity, the draw results were announced:

Diamond VS Ash

Platinum VS Pearl

Gold VS Gary

Bea VS Nemona

Sabrina eyed August skeptically, clearly indicating the conveniently dramatic match-ups.

August: “.....”

Did he really need to rig anything for this? He always worked openly. If anything suspicious happened, it was probably Mew’s doing!

Mew: Mew?

Under Sabrina’s doubtful stare, Iono began explaining the rules from a small card August had provided.

“This summer camp battle activity will use a 1v1 format—no switching Pokémon mid-battle. Choose your Pokémon carefully beforehand!”

“Now, let’s welcome our first pair of competitors: the comedic star from Sinnoh, Diamond, and the new trainer from Kanto, Ash Ketchum!”

Diamond cheerfully waved at the audience as he walked onto the battlefield, his red cap adding to his innocent charm.

Ash, on the other hand…

“Looks like an idiot,” Gary bluntly commented after returning to the stands from the draw.

“You’re not afraid you’ll lose to Ash, are you?” Sabrina teased.

“Are you kidding? Me, lose to Ash in a Pokémon battle? He’ll probably lose to Diamond right now and get eliminated!” Gary scoffed.

Just as Gary finished speaking, Iono officially began the battle.

Both trainers threw their Poké Balls simultaneously.

Diamond sent out the Torterra he’d used in the wilderness survival challenge. Its heavy body shook the earth with each step, clearly powerful.

Meanwhile, Ash’s choice was…

“Bayleef?!” Gary stared in disbelief. Ash hadn’t chosen Pikachu but Bayleef instead. Suddenly, Gary had a very bad feeling.

Ash isn’t planning on using that move, is he…?

No sooner had the thought crossed Gary’s mind than Bayleef dashed toward Torterra, the leaf atop its head glowing white.

BOOM!

Torterra flew back from Bayleef’s devastating tackle, landing heavily and unable to rise.

Iono was stunned speechless until an aerial Rotom reminded her. She hurriedly announced, “Torterra is unable to battle! Bayleef wins!”

“Unbelievable! Ash’s Bayleef has defeated Diamond’s Torterra with a single strike!”

Given her experience as a gym leader and official commentator for the World Championships, Iono knew Torterra was strong. Its fully evolved status also gave it a huge statistical advantage over Bayleef.

So how had Ash knocked it out with just one move?

Unlike everyone else’s shock, Gary immediately knew the truth.

It was a technique Ash had learned during their World Championship training together.

Watching Ash cheerfully hugging Bayleef, Gary’s expression grew tense.

To use [Return] with that kind of devastating power—just how close has Ash grown with Bayleef?

August looked at Ash with deep satisfaction, feeling his efforts hadn’t been in vain. Turning teasingly to Gary, he asked, “So, think Ash is a worthy opponent now?”

Sweating a bit, Gary?

Gary said nothing. His silence alone spoke volumes.

...

While Ash’s decisive victory left everyone amazed, the battles continued.

Platinum stood ready at one end, Pearl at the other.

“Missy!” Pearl waved confidently. “I won’t hold back this time!”

Platinum smiled back calmly. “Neither will I!”

Iono declared the battle start.

Platinum’s Empoleon emerged impressively—black and white plumage resembling a regal tuxedo, golden crown-like crest enhancing its imposing presence. The Jubilife villagers cheered enthusiastically.

“What’s gotten into them?” Blue asked curiously.

“In Hisui, Empoleon is revered as ‘Lord of the Waves,’ a Pokémon deeply respected by locals,” August explained.

Though Empoleon’s appearance gained Platinum enthusiastic supporters, her expression darkened upon seeing Pearl’s Luxray emerge opposite her.

“A type disadvantage right away…”

“Go all-out, Luxy!” Pearl shouted.

Empoleon attacked first, firing a [Bubble Beam] toward Luxray. Luxray countered swiftly, shattering the bubbles with a flash of [Thunderbolt].

However, the [Bubble Beam] had been merely a diversion—Empoleon swiftly used the attack’s cover to flank Luxray.

But Luxray’s sharp eyes gleamed with electricity.

“Never underestimate Luxray’s vision!” Pearl shouted confidently. Electricity surged around Luxray’s body.

“This move’s from Boss Gold himself—[Wild Charge]!”

Covered in crackling electricity, Luxray rushed Empoleon at blinding speed.

Empoleon barely had time to cross its bladed wings defensively before Luxray slammed into it full-force.

BOOM!

Empoleon was thrown violently backward, rolling across the ground several times.

“Empoleon!” Platinum cried anxiously.

Empoleon desperately tried to rise, but the power of [Wild Charge], amplified by Luxray’s electric advantage, proved too much. Eventually, Empoleon collapsed unconscious.

“Empoleon is unable to battle! Luxray wins! Pearl is the victor!” Iono announced hastily.

The battle had been so intense that Iono hadn’t even found time for commentary—something she silently berated herself for.

Platinum approached her fallen partner, disheartened. “I thought all that training made me stronger…but I’m still weak.”

Pearl rubbed his head awkwardly. “Missy, you’re already very strong! It was just my type advantage…”

His reassurance wasn’t empty—Platinum’s Empoleon was genuinely powerful. Had Pearl chosen Infernape, victory would’ve been uncertain.

Seeing their conversation prolong, Iono swiftly interrupted, “Group A matches concluded! Winners: Ash and Pearl!”

“Next—Group B!”

First up: Gold vs. Gary.

Gold stylishly jumped from the stands, billiard cue on his shoulder, landing perfectly.

Seeing Gold’s cool move, Gary considered following suit—but glancing nervously at the seven-meter drop, he wisely took the stairs instead.

“Next battle: beloved Johto idol Gold versus Kanto’s legendary Pokémon trainer Gary Oak!”

Since Iono wasn’t familiar with everyone from the Kanto Branch, the introductions were self-written. August felt his age showing when he heard their flashy descriptions.

You two never miss a chance to show off, huh…

Gary confidently declared, “Gold, this match is mine—mark my words!”

Gold grinned, unruffled. “Gary-senpai, nothing’s certain until it’s over!”

August watched their dramatic exchanges dryly. What is this, a movie shoot?

Both trainers then released their Pokémon.

With Suicune banned, Gary opted for his trusted Nidoking. Gold, meanwhile, sent out his Typhlosion.

Gary immediately smiled smugly. “Looks like I have the upper hand!”

Both Kanto Branch members knew each other’s Pokémon well. Just as August would’ve put it—Gold choosing Typhlosion was entirely within expectations.

“August, who do you think will win?” Hearing the familiar question, August turned to see Zinnia leaning closer, eyes shifting suspiciously.

Clearly, she still hadn’t given up on Rayquaza.

“Gary,” August answered without hesitation.

August answered Zinnia directly, then calmly pushed her head away.

“Wait, August!”

Zinnia struggled stubbornly, but August remained unmoved.

Blue watched the exchange curiously, puzzled by August’s actions.

August sighed. “Zinnia’s plotting something against me.”

Next to them, Sabrina scoffed. “Don’t listen to him, Blue. With Zinnia’s brain, how could she plot against anyone, let alone August?”

Hearing this, Blue nodded in firm agreement.

August: “...”

But she really has been plotting against me! She’s snuck into my room three nights in a row!

What kind of world was this, where no one believed the truth?

As August lamented quietly, the battle between Gary and Gold reached its climax.

Gary had the edge in raw power, but Gold never fought conventionally. Instead, he specialized in all sorts of tricky moves.

When Gary’s Nidoking launched a barrage of [Poison Stings], Gold’s Typhlosion circled around Nidoking, leaving it dizzy and confused.

When Nidoking tried [Horn Attack], Typhlosion shrouded the field in [Smokescreen], denying Nidoking any chance of landing a solid hit.

And when Nidoking used [Sludge Bomb], Typhlosion countered with [Fire Spin], creating a cloud that Nidoking inadvertently inhaled, nearly choking itself unconscious.

Gary: “.....”

Since when did Gold become this annoying?!

Gary sighed helplessly. “You forced my hand. I didn’t want to use this move…”

He’d been deliberately avoiding Ground-type moves because he’d learned them from Giovanni’s own "Secrets of the Earth." With Giovanni himself watching from the sidelines, using these moves felt like presenting a cheap imitation in front of the genuine article.

But Gold had pushed him too far…

Gary raised his hand dramatically. “Nidoking!”

Roar!

Nidoking let out a fierce growl.

“[Earthquake]!”

The moment Gary shouted, Nidoking stomped the ground fiercely, sending shockwaves rippling outward, cracking the battlefield in multiple directions.

Seeing the terrifying power of the [Earthquake], Gold’s expression changed sharply.

“Typhlosion, [Protect]!”

This wasn’t an ordinary [Earthquake]. He absolutely couldn’t risk taking it head-on.

Typhlosion immediately raised a protective sphere, shielding itself from the devastating tremors.

But before Gold could come up with a counterattack, Gary struck again.

“Nidoking, [Earth Power]!”

In an instant, stone pillars erupted violently from the cracked ground, completely trapping Typhlosion within.

“Not good—Typhlosion!” Gold shouted urgently.

But before Gold could issue another command, Gary decisively finished the battle.

“Nidoking, [High Horsepower]!”

BOOM!

Nidoking charged forward at full speed, smashing directly into Typhlosion and sending it flying out of the stone cage.

Before it crashed to the ground, August’s Mew quickly caught Typhlosion and returned it safely to Gold’s side.

“Typhlosion is unable to battle! Legendary Pokémon Trainer Gary wins!” Iono declared the outcome excitedly.

Gary grinned smugly at August. “So, how about that move? Pretty impressive, huh?”

August didn’t reply aloud, instead sending a sly telepathic message:

[Giovanni was watching you closely just now!]

Gary flinched, quickly glancing toward Giovanni’s position. But Giovanni was casually chatting with Silver, while Silver remained as cool and detached as ever.

Gary: “...”

Tricked again. Was that really necessary?

But if Gary had paid closer attention, he would’ve noticed Giovanni secretly observing him out of the corner of his eye while talking to Silver.

…

With Gary’s victory, it was time for the final match of Group B:

Nemona vs. Bea.

Nemona chose Goodra, while Bea went with her Machamp.

After three days together at camp, everyone had become fairly familiar with each other. Yet, as Bea stood on the field, she felt distinctly uneasy under Nemona’s blazing gaze.

Why do I feel like a little Rattata being eyed by a hungry Pidgeot...?

Perhaps that analogy was exaggerated, but it still felt accurate.

Is she treating me like prey? Bea thought.

She could practically feel Nemona’s intense fighting spirit.

On the battlefield, Nemona’s Goodra held a distinct advantage thanks to its mucus-covered body, making it difficult to land physical hits. Machamp, relying almost entirely on physical strength, faced a clear disadvantage.

If this had been three days ago, Bea might have resigned herself to inevitable defeat. But after August’s dedicated training, she was no longer the same trainer she’d once been.

Now, it’s time to show what I’ve learned!

Closing her eyes briefly, Bea recalled August’s teachings, sensing the [Aura] of Machamp and Goodra…

Her eyes snapped open. “Machamp, attack!”

“Mach!”

Machamp roared fiercely, springing toward Goodra with incredible force.

Startled by Machamp’s sudden battle cry, Goodra froze momentarily, leaving itself wide open to Machamp’s punch.

Goodra winced, quickly regaining its composure as Machamp’s punch slipped harmlessly off its slippery body.

“Goodra, [Aqua Tail]!” Nemona commanded.

Goodra’s tail was instantly enveloped by a swirling jet of water, lashing toward Machamp.

At such close range, Nemona felt confident the move would surely land.

But things rarely went according to plan.

Sensing Goodra’s [Aura], Bea instantly predicted its attack. “Machamp, leap now!”

Displaying shocking agility, Machamp jumped straight up, crossing its legs mid-air and avoiding [Aqua Tail] entirely.

Goodra froze, baffled.

Before Goodra could react, Machamp—still suspended mid-air—formed a cross with its powerful arms and slammed downward.

“[Cross Chop]!”

“Goodra, dodge!” Nemona urged desperately.

The attack narrowly missed Goodra’s body, striking its tail instead.

“Goo—!” Goodra cried out in pain.

Recovering quickly, Goodra began charging a purple ball of energy in its mouth, preparing a [Dragon Breath] attack to paralyze Machamp.

But Bea anticipated this perfectly. “Machamp, duck!”

Machamp immediately crouched low.

BOOM!

[Dragon Breath] sailed harmlessly overhead, giving Machamp another chance to strike.

“[Low Sweep]!”

Machamp’s swift leg swept out, striking Goodra’s small, already unstable legs.

Goodra, heavily dependent on its tail for balance, immediately lost its footing, tumbling onto the ground helplessly.

Seeing this, Nemona quickly recognized the danger.

“Goodra, use [Surf] to push Machamp back!”

Nemona’s command was perfect, but Bea and Machamp reacted even faster.

“Machamp, [Vital Throw]!”

Machamp grabbed Goodra securely with all four powerful arms, slamming it mercilessly into the ground and interrupting the [Surf] attack completely.

At that moment, Nemona knew she’d lost.

But rather than disappointed, Nemona looked at Bea with pure excitement.

This summer camp is amazing—I’ve found yet another opponent I can’t beat!

“Goodra is unable to battle. Machamp wins!” Iono announced the result.

Bea cheered enthusiastically, waving toward August, who smiled warmly in response.

With this, the first round concluded, and the semifinal matchups were clear:

Ash vs. Pearl; Gary vs. Bea.

“I never imagined Pokémon battles could be this thrilling,” Kamado remarked, deeply impressed after watching all four battles.

“If you like, Captain Kamado, you could organize Hisui’s own Pokémon League,” August suggested. “Not only would it enrich everyone’s lives, but it would also boost the Galaxy Team’s practical skills—useful for future expeditions.”

Kamado nodded thoughtfully, agreeing wholeheartedly. He’d once held many misconceptions about Pokémon. But now, having personally witnessed humans and Pokémon cooperating in harmony, fighting side-by-side, he’d cast aside those outdated prejudices.

Perhaps it truly was time to embrace a new era.

As August and Kamado talked, Ash and Pearl returned to the battlefield, fully rested and ready to begin their match.

The battle itself was…brief.

Pearl’s Luxray faced Ash’s Bayleef. Bayleef instantly unleashed [Return], knocking Luxray airborne. Following swiftly with another [Return], Bayleef decisively knocked Luxray unconscious.

Gary watched Bayleef effortlessly take down Luxray in just two moves, eyes wide with shock.

Turning urgently to August, he exclaimed silently:

"Is that even a Bayleef?! What kind of monster have you created by teaching Ash [Return]?!"

August was also slightly taken aback, though he hid it better than Gary. After carefully observing Bayleef, he reassured Gary calmly:

“Bayleef isn’t invincible. Luxray’s level wasn’t particularly high… Even [Return] has its limits. Your Nidoking wouldn’t be taken down so easily.”

Gary: “...”

Not getting knocked out immediately—was that supposed to reassure me?

Wow. I feel so much better now.

With a heart full of anxiety, Gary stepped onto the battlefield.

Unexpectedly, Bea bowed respectfully to him with cupped fists. “Senior!”

Gary blinked blankly. “Se… what? Senior?”

When had he suddenly become a senior disciple?

“Master August is my teacher, and you’re his disciple too. Naturally, you’re my senior disciple!” Bea said earnestly.

Gary: “......”

When had August even taken Bea as a disciple? How did he completely miss that?

[GardevoirSupremacy]: All you ever do is compete with Ash over whose fish can jump higher, or argue about who wins. What else do you notice?

Gary instinctively responded, “Exactly… wait, no!”

What do you mean ‘all I ever do is argue with Ash about whose fish jumps higher’? Those were serious competitions!

Taking a deep breath, Gary forcibly cleared his scattered thoughts and fully focused on the match ahead.

Nidoking against Machamp… My Pokémon has both type and ability advantage. This should be easy!

Determined to finish the match quickly like Ash, Gary waved his hand dramatically. “Nidoking, [Earthquake]!”

Nidoking stomped fiercely, releasing powerful shockwaves.

Faced with the incoming seismic waves, Machamp chose to…

“Jump!” Bea shouted decisively.

Gary chuckled confidently. “Jump? [Earthquake] lasts continuously!”

However, just as Machamp touched down, before Gary could celebrate, the Pokémon immediately used the landing momentum to leap skyward again, rapidly advancing toward Nidoking with minimal exposure to damage.

“Wait, seriously?” Gary’s eyes widened in shock.

Quickly regaining composure, Gary said coolly, “Fine. But my Nidoking has the [Poison Point] ability. If you get close—”

Before Gary could finish, Machamp soared upward, crossing its powerful arms into an X shape and diving down toward Nidoking.

“[Cross Chop]!”

Gary hadn’t expected Machamp to dare such a bold attack, but he remained calm, readying his counter.

“Nidoking, [Earth Power]!”

Instantly, Nidoking summoned a wall of earth between himself and Machamp.

BOOM!

Machamp’s [Cross Chop] slammed into the wall, carving a deep, perfect cross-shaped gash through it.

Gary’s heart skipped a beat.

If that had landed, even with Nidoking’s resistance to Fighting-type moves, he’d be badly injured, jeopardizing my fight with Ash.

But since Machamp’s attack had been stopped, the advantage shifted firmly into Gary’s grasp.

“Nidoking, [Earth Power] once more!”

The ground surged upward, numerous stone pillars rapidly enclosing Machamp. Machamp desperately swung all four muscular arms, smashing through pillar after pillar, fighting valiantly to break free.

Bea and Machamp had certainly improved greatly thanks to August’s harsh training and guidance. Yet Gary had endured far more intense training and received far more personal instruction from August.

When it came to “August-content,” Gary led far ahead!

“I’m the real senior disciple… wait, what am I even thinking?!” Gary shook his head, refocusing just as Nidoking launched its final assault.

Trapped by ever-increasing stone pillars, Machamp struggled hopelessly.

Gary swept his hand dramatically. “Finish this with [Earthquake]!”

Rumble—

The stone pillars collapsed instantly, burying Machamp beneath the rubble.

Mew, serving as the match’s rescue staff, swiftly used [Psychic] to lift Machamp to safety.

Iono quickly assessed Machamp’s condition, declaring, “Machamp is unable to battle. Nidoking wins! Gary advances!”

“You truly are amazing, Senior!” Bea said admiringly, not discouraged at all.

Instead, she saw a bright future ahead. As long as she continued learning from Master August, she would undoubtedly become stronger!

Gary waved modestly, then immediately turned to Ash.

Ash returned the stare.

Tension crackled visibly between them.

...

After giving Nidoking a brief rest to recover some stamina, Gary returned confidently to the battlefield.

Seeing Ash and Gary standing opposite each other, Zinnia eagerly poked her head toward August again. “August, who do you think will win?”

August sighed, but didn’t push her head back this time. After a brief pause, he replied, “Gary probably has a better chance.”

Seeing that August hadn’t pushed her away, Zinnia nearly teared up in joy, but still managed to ask, “So Gary isn’t definitely going to win?”

“Pokémon battles are influenced by many factors,” August explained patiently. “Whether Gary wins really depends on his mindset.”

Gary’s mindset?

Outwardly, Gary seemed completely dismissive of Ash. Yet inside, he was being incredibly cautious.

Mostly because Ash’s Bayleef and her powerful [Return] had shocked him earlier. Even if August assured him Nidoking wouldn’t be instantly knocked out, taking heavy damage from a single hit would be devastating. Thus, he had to be even more careful than usual.

As Gary quietly built up his resolve, across from him, Ash excitedly encouraged his Bayleef.

“Let’s win this together, Bayleef!” Ash shouted enthusiastically.

Bayleef, eyes shining with determination, nodded eagerly in response to Ash’s trust.

Iono practically bounced with excitement. “The Youth Division finals—begin now!”

The instant her voice fell, Ash commanded swiftly:

“Bayleef, [Return]!”

Ash didn’t know the proverb “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” but after easily winning two battles, he eagerly stuck to his winning strategy.

Covered in white light, Bayleef charged straight toward Nidoking.

Yet Gary felt unprecedented calmness in that moment.

“Nidoking, [Earth Power]!”

Nidoking quickly summoned another wall of earth.

The wall that had stopped Machamp’s [Cross Chop] moments earlier was instantly shattered by Bayleef’s empowered [Return].

As the dust cleared, Bayleef looked around, preparing to strike again, only to realize Nidoking had vanished completely, leaving only a gaping hole in the ground.

“[Dig]?” Ash exclaimed.

“Exactly right!” Gary laughed confidently.

This was his secret weapon against Bayleef’s powerful [Return]—[Dig].

Everyone knew that [Return] couldn’t hit Nidoking underground, but Nidoking could definitely attack from below!

Suddenly, the ground beneath Bayleef softened, sinking rapidly. Bayleef panicked, legs sinking quickly into the sand trap.

“Bayleef, get out of there!” Ash yelled frantically, echoed by Pikachu’s worried cries from his shoulder.

But it was too late.

Bayleef’s hind legs were trapped, pulling her deeper into the sinking sand.

Bayleef’s panic grew, Ash pacing anxiously like a Butterfree in a whirlwind.

Gary smirked triumphantly. “[Sand Tomb]—a simple move, yet you’re completely stuck. You have a lot to learn, Ash!”

Ash completely ignored Gary’s taunts. Instead, his eyes suddenly brightened upon spotting the shattered, yet still-standing earthen wall.

“Bayleef, grab that wall with [Vine Whip]!”

Trusting Ash implicitly, Bayleef immediately lashed out vines, gripping the wall and pulling herself upward.

Neither Ash nor Bayleef had expected that Nidoking’s wall, initially a barrier, would become their lifeline out of the [Sand Tomb].

Gary watched without interfering.

Because the next moment, as Bayleef slowly began extracting herself like a stubborn turnip, she suddenly cried out in surprise.

Before Ash could react, Nidoking burst out from underground behind Bayleef.

“Nidoking, [Earthquake]!”

Bayleef, still partially trapped, had nowhere to run. The seismic waves spread mercilessly, catching Bayleef directly.

It wasn’t very effective, but Nidoking’s higher level inflicted heavy damage. Bayleef winced painfully.

“Bayleef!” Ash shouted worriedly.

“It’s over! Nidoking, [Earth Power]!”

The final attack struck hard, and Bayleef’s eyes spiraled dizzily. She fell, completely unconscious.

Iono announced the result enthusiastically: “Bayleef is unable to battle! Nidoking wins! The champion is Gary Oak!”

Gary smirked triumphantly. “See that, Ash? I won!”

Yet Ash completely ignored him, instead rushing over to check on Bayleef’s condition.

[GardevoirSupremacy]: He’s ignoring you.

Gary: “......”

Some things are better left unsaid, thanks.

Thankfully, after quickly confirming Bayleef was okay, Ash remembered Gary’s challenge. He stood up, determinedly shouting:

“Next time, I’ll definitely beat you!”

Hearing Ash’s words, Gary felt unexpectedly touched.

Ash didn’t forget about me!

Wait—what on earth am I thinking now?!

Just as Gary began seriously questioning his own mental state, August rose from his seat and called to Iono, "Iono, I'll take over the hosting from here."

"Hosting?" Gary asked in surprise. "Aren't you going to battle Giovanni yourself?"

August gave a small, smug smile. "It would be unfair to Giovanni if I battled him personally…"

Giovanni: "…"

Your momentary advantage won't last forever!

August continued smoothly, "For the sake of fairness, I found an opponent worthy of Giovanni."

"Who is it?" Gary asked eagerly.

August turned his gaze toward Pryce, Maxie, Archie, and Cyrus sitting together in the stands.

"Is it me?" Maxie perked up hopefully.

"You're too weak," August dismissed mercilessly.

Maxie's expression immediately stiffened awkwardly.

Archie laughed heartily at Maxie’s embarrassment. "If it's one of us, it should obviously be me—I have the longer sentence."

It seemed Archie had quickly embraced his longer prison term as a badge of honor.

But Archie fell silent when August bluntly responded, "It's not you either."

"Hahaha!" Maxie cackled back at Archie.

Both immediately assumed August was choosing Pryce. After witnessing Pryce’s terrifying strength before, they still shuddered at the memory.

Yet, August didn't choose Pryce either.

Pryce is far too strong. In a 1v1, unless Giovanni uses Deoxys, he'd have no chance at all.

Finally, August's gaze settled firmly on Cyrus.

"Cyrus?" Maxie and Archie exclaimed simultaneously.

"How's he any stronger than us?" they grumbled, disgruntled. They'd grudgingly accepted Pryce as stronger, but Cyrus?

Cyrus ignored their noisy complaints entirely. To him, Maxie and Archie were merely irrelevant background noise.

Cyrus stood up expressionlessly, his icy gaze fixed directly on Giovanni.

Meeting Cyrus’s eyes, Giovanni returned a polite smile. Internally, however, discomfort gnawed at him. It felt as if Cyrus’s piercing gaze could see right through his carefully maintained disguise.

The two slowly stepped onto the battlefield.

August announced cheerfully, "Next up is the Adult Division finals: Giovanni versus Cyrus!"

"The match begins now!"

The moment August finished speaking, Giovanni's eyes flashed sharply.

His Beedrill burst from its Poké Ball, streaking forward like a golden lightning bolt, aiming straight at Cyrus's Probopass.

CLANG!

Beedrill's needle struck Probopass, creating a grating, unpleasant sound—like nails scraping across a blackboard.

"Giovanni, leader of Team Rocket?" Cyrus asked calmly.

Giovanni replied immediately, "I'm undercover."

The moment their words faded, Probopass released a barrage of [Magnet Bombs], blasting towards Beedrill.

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

Explosions rattled the arena, yet none could touch Beedrill.

With incredible agility, Beedrill zigzagged gracefully through the air, evading each [Magnet Bomb] before firing off a volley of [Pin Missiles] at Probopass.

Probopass stood firm, taking the attack head-on, unfazed.

Then Probopass whipped up a powerful [Sandstorm], enveloping the battlefield in swirling grit and rapidly chipping away at Beedrill's stamina.

Giovanni frowned slightly, eyes narrowing. His Beedrill was severely disadvantaged—Probopass’s Rock/Steel typing rendered Beedrill’s Poison moves useless and its Bug moves ineffective. Combined with Probopass’s formidable Defense and Special Defense, Giovanni faced a tricky situation.

Yet even amidst these calculations, Giovanni’s composure never wavered—his acting skills were impeccable.

Watching Giovanni maintain his flawless disguise under pressure, August couldn’t help but admire the man’s resilience.

Meanwhile, Probopass released its three Mini-Noses, hovering like drones, circling protectively and readying counterattacks.

Beedrill repeatedly attempted to penetrate this defensive barrier with [Quick Attack] and [Fury Cutter] combinations, but each attempt was swiftly deflected.

One particularly close call nearly cost Beedrill dearly.

Giovanni feigned deep thought, brow furrowed. After another failed attempt, Beedrill used [Agility] once more, boosting its speed yet again.

Cyrus instinctively felt something was off—Beedrill had now used [Agility] three times. Giovanni seemed overly persistent.

Just as suspicion took hold, Beedrill moved again—this time, surprisingly slowly—toward Probopass.

Probopass immediately dispatched the closest Mini-Nose for interception, the other two swiftly moving to assist.

Right at that moment—

"Beedrill, [String Shot]!" Giovanni commanded.

Beedrill instantly shot out sticky threads, entangling the closest Mini-Nose and swiftly dragging the other two into a tangled bundle.

Seizing this moment, Beedrill unleashed its true, blinding speed.

In a blink, Beedrill vanished from sight. When Cyrus spotted it again, Beedrill hovered menacingly behind Probopass, needle raised high.

"Probopass, [Iron Defense]!" Cyrus calmly commanded, choosing defense over evasion. Probopass was too heavy and slow to dodge, and Cyrus doubted Beedrill could deal significant damage anyway. With [Iron Defense’s] boost, Beedrill’s attacks should have been negligible.

Yet Cyrus had severely underestimated Giovanni’s Beedrill.

Beedrill’s needle glowed brightly as Giovanni’s commanding voice resonated through the battlefield:

"Beedrill, [Brick Break]!"

CRACK!

The needle slammed violently into Probopass’s back, delivering a devastating quadruple-effective blow. Probopass’s sturdy body fractured instantly under the overwhelming force.

Probopass let out a painful groan and immediately collapsed, unable to continue.

Beedrill calmly withdrew its needles, silently returning to Giovanni's side.

Cyrus glanced at his fallen Pokémon, then back at Giovanni. "You truly deserve your title as Team Rocket's leader."

Giovanni smoothly maintained his composure: "I'm just undercover. Thank you for letting me win."

Only then did August’s cheerful voice resound across the battlefield: "What a spectacular battle! Congratulations, Giovanni, you've defeated Cyrus and won the Adult Division championship!"

"Congratulations!" August smiled toward Giovanni, then glanced at Gary, who was still replaying the thrilling battle in his mind.

"Come collect your prizes!"

Gary hurried over, ecstatic at sharing the podium with Giovanni himself.

Then August casually handed Gary a large box.

"Pick one from here."

Gary stared at the box in shock. "August, where did you get so many Pokémon Eggs? You didn’t raid an entire Pokémon nest, did you?!"

August raised an eyebrow challengingly. "Do you want it or not?"

"I do! Of course, I do!" Gary quickly selected an egg. He also received the "Team Origin Rocket Limited-Edition T-shirt" (just a modified Rocket uniform) and a box of August’s Secret Recipe Pokéblocks.

After handing out Gary’s rewards, August turned toward Giovanni: "Your turn. Choose one."

Giovanni selected an egg casually. Though internally battling the urge to rip it apart, he calmly accepted the absurdly redesigned Rocket uniform and his long-coveted Pokéblocks.

For Giovanni, this was by far the most satisfying championship he'd received since arriving in Hisui.

However, his relief was short-lived as August cheerfully called out, "Well, what are you waiting for? Quickly put on your limited-edition T-shirt for a commemorative photo!"

Giovanni: "…?"

A giant question mark seemed to hang above his head.

Put on that uniform and take a photo? I'd rather die!

Nearby, Gary similarly hesitated. But after one pointed glance from August, he obediently slipped into the embarrassing attire.

Giovanni: "…"

Deoxys and Necrozma aren’t healed yet. This isn’t the time to lose my temper.

Endure!

Grinding his teeth, Giovanni reluctantly donned the absurd Team Origin Rocket T-shirt.

Then he forced a stiff smile as the others happily crowded around for a group photo.

Behind his hollow smile, Giovanni's killing intent surged to new heights.

These humiliating photos are my black history! Once August is dealt with, I'll burn them all to ashes!

---

T/N: ...yeah thats all the chapters for today

This is a fan translation of 我，宝可梦称号大师！ by 落唯 白良. All rights to the original work belong to the creator. Please support them by exploring their original work or sharing it with others if you can. Thank you for reading and supporting my efforts to bring this story to a wider audience!