Aspiring to become a Pokémon trainer

"Sorry to trouble you."

"It's nothing. On the contrary, do you want to go straight back, or do you have other plans?"

"The Battle Castle system extended an invitation to me as soon as I landed."

While not directly answering Karuni's question, these concise words clarified that Nan Yin's choice leaned towards the latter.

Just as her words had been spoken, she had indeed received a challenge for the title, and had also witnessed the dashing figure of the young man and the Greninja on social media.

Yes, the one who issued the challenge was someone she had once defeated, who now possessed the secrets of evolution, and came from Pallet Town.

—Xiao Zhi.

Those who are interested can go check it out, but don't leave me behind, *crying* ┭┮﹏┭┮.

Chapter 124 Welcome Reception and Unexpected Events

While the challenge invitation was important, Nan Yin preferred that the children, who had traveled a long way, get a good night's rest rather than accepting it immediately.

Therefore, even if the challenge initiated by the protagonist of the comic book is meaningful, she will refuse it first to avoid bothering these little animals she cherishes.

Just as she was thinking of saying a brief goodbye to Carlos, the figure approaching from afar made Nan Yin slightly open her eyes in surprise.

Stepping out of the open door of the parked rental car, at the edge of the horizon, the elderly man in a smart outfit was smiling and waving, indicating his location.

"Nanyin, Ke'erni, how was the trip?"

"It was very fulfilling, and I also gained a treasure that belongs only to me."

Glancing sideways at the little devil nestled at her legs, Nan Yin slightly raised her dark eyelashes and asked in return, "But Master, why have you come?"

"What, you little brat, you don't welcome me?"

Completely devoid of any airs of a museum owner, the old man relaxed his furrowed brows and laughed heartily.

It was just a simple joke, but there was no shortage of pride in Mr. Fu's words.

“My outstanding disciple has returned weary from his journey. As his teacher, how could I not welcome him? Come, a welcome-back feast has been prepared for you.”

With a question and an answer, the old man showed his care and concern. During their leisurely stroll, he led the three away slowly.

As night deepened, a gentle breeze caressed my face, carrying the fresh scent of the mountains and fields. Looking up at the starry sky above, faint white thunder rumbled in the clouds, a subtle sign of Zapdos's approach.

With a simple thought, I convey the meaning of being well. Accompanied by that radiant figure casting the shadow of its wings, it dispels the heavy clouds that shroud it, restoring a clear and bright sky.

"Thank you, Master."

"We're all family now, why say so many thanks?"

He gently patted the girl's shoulder, his face beaming with satisfaction.

With such an outstanding disciple, even if he had no descendants, he could have no regrets.

As they thought this, the unique building faded into everyone's view.

"Girls, we've arrived."

Following the light and shadow, the first thing that catches the eye is the dome standing high up, and upon closer inspection, the floral windows and arched doorways are revealed one after another.

"The Xiulishi Hotel is not only a place to stay for guests from afar, but also one of the landmark buildings in Miare City."

Stepping inside and looking around, one immediately senses elegance and solemnity, as if a series of European dramas are unfolding before one's eyes.

The evening light shines on the bricks and tiles, melodious piano music accompanies the ears, the smooth and neat marble extends inward, and the dazzling and exquisite chandeliers are laid out along the ceiling, with incense smoke like mist that lingers for a long time.

"Master, isn't this a bit too formal?"

Neither in this life nor in her past life had Nan Yin ever personally stepped into such an expensive place, so she was naturally taken aback by the magnificent scene before her.

"Haha, not at all, I, Uncle Fu, although I am getting old, still enjoy certain privileges here."

"That's right. Not only gym leaders, but ordinary trainers can also come here to get free meals or take a short break."

After providing the elderly man with further explanation and handing the card to the receptionist, Karuni began to recount the history of the place in detail.

As their conversation grew louder, they gradually stepped into the designated inner room.

Large round table, chairs with backrests...

Unlike the hotel's overall Western style, this private room is small and lacks any luxurious decorations, giving it a more simple, unpretentious, and refreshingly elegant homey feel.

Clearly, this was a deliberate design choice.

As the door opened, the view became clear and bright, and many familiar figures came into view one after another.

"Come, come, let me see, isn't this our great hero Nan Yin from Carlos?"

The brown-haired youth laughed loudly, making no attempt to hide his teasing expression.

However, the next moment, the violet glow that shone from his eyes made this legendary fighter swallow hard and instinctively cough.

"Your Green Champion, please have some self-respect."

"Haha, why are you making fun of Nan Yin for no reason?"

With a gentle nudge of his elbow to his grand-disciple's side, the kind old man pulled out a chair, making just the right amount of space for the group.

"Professor Oak, haven't you returned to Kanto yet?"

With her sharp gaze softened, Nan Yin was somewhat surprised to see this leading figure in the scientific research community.

"Yes, after all, the question of super evolution really piqued my curiosity. Fortunately, there's nothing urgent in Kanto, and Dr. Blatano also has many questions he'd like to discuss. So, I'll study some of the known information here."

With a smile and a nod, Professor Oak naturally felt a good impression of Nan Yin, having not yet repaid the kindness of the past, and was happy to welcome the young girl as well.

"Yes, Mr. Oki has indeed provided me with tremendous help during this period."

Bratano also waved in response to the former's mention.

"Please sit here, Nanyin."

A woman with light purple eyeshadow, her expression subtly changing with her frown, gently beckoned the young girl to come closer.

"Owner of Ma Embroidery Shop".

"There's no need for formalities with me. The way you usually address Zhulan and Karuni makes me jealous."

People speak similarly, and they are similar in character.

Without doing anything, Ma Xiu simply lifted her sleeves and pulled Nan Yin to sit down.

Even though it was only a month apart, for them it felt like half a year had passed since they last met. Today, the traveler returned home, and the joy of the reunion was naturally overflowing.

“Ma Xiu”.

Under the gaze of many familiar eyes, even the usually composed Nan Yin couldn't help but blush.

It was a slight shyness.

With her hands behind her back and her fingertips poking each other, she expressed her deep feelings and sighed with emotion.

Why do we yearn for home? It's because we miss those shoulders that have touched, and we long for the lingering warmth of those caring voices.

"That's more like it. Not only you, but Sylveon has also grown up a lot and is now a beautiful young lady."

"Buyi!"

Turning her head away, completely ignoring Ma Xiu's praise, the pink and white little beast simply lay prone on Nan Yin's lap as before, gently swaying the ribbon.

"So cute! And Nan Yin too, long time no see."

The voice was no longer mature, but carried the breath of youth. The chestnut-haired girl moved her round hips and rubbed against Nan Yin's side little by little.

Serena, you're here too?

"Hehe, although it's a bit inappropriate, Ash couldn't wait to drag Professor Oak along as soon as he heard that you were coming back today, saying that he absolutely had to attend this welcome-back banquet and make up for his defeat last time."

Twirling her hair with her fingertips, the girl forced a smile. Although it was her beloved's habit to challenge her without considering the facts, Serena was still willing to take responsibility for his recklessness.

Just as he had said earlier, when his gaze fell upon the old man who had coughed lightly, he immediately showed an embarrassed expression.

So, did the boy from Pallet Town also come here?

Before my thoughts could settle, those proud words had already reached my ears, carrying with them an inexhaustible fighting spirit.

"Nanyin, let's have a battle!"

"Pickup!"

Chapter 125 Greninja and Bond Evolution

"Xiao Zhi, why are you so keen on battling Nan Yin?"

Sensing the boy's high fighting spirit, Professor Oak was somewhat curious as to why Ash was so determined to fight Nan Yin.

The old man knew this boy from Zhenxin Town very well, including his temperament.

Ash is a passionate battle enthusiast. He doesn't care about the strength of his opponents, or even whether he can win the battle.

He would devote all his energy to any battle he set out to, which is why Oki Yukinari loved this child so much; he was just like himself when he was young.

"Because Nan Yin defeated me head-on in the Battle Castle. Now that she has tasted defeat, how can she not issue another challenge!"

Unconcerned about revealing the fact of defeat, the black-haired boy simply pounded his chest and spoke earnestly.

Looking at the composed girl and then at Ash's bright eyes, Professor Oak sensed something.

So you see Nanyin music as your formidable rival?

Recalling how he skillfully used his abilities to defeat Zygarde's command, the old man couldn't help but worry about the boy's future. Unlike ordinary trainers, Nan Yin's talent was equally outstanding, comparable to his grandson or the legendary trainer who trained at Mt. Silver.

"So, Nan Yin, what's your answer?"

"I promise, but not today."

Since the protagonist in the play is so earnest, she will not refuse again.

Whether it's the upcoming Miare Conference or the current competition for the title, Nanyin will spare no effort to win.

"Pickup!"

A subtle yet sharp electric current involuntarily emanated from its crimson cheeks. Just like its trainer, Pikachu was full of energy and exuded an imposing aura.

It also wanted to avenge its previous defeat, but compared to the Electric Mouse's eagerness, Sylveon was uninterested, simply lying on Nanyin's lap and ignoring the former's calls.

“Buyi (∪。∪) ..."

Still unwilling to give up, just as Xiaozhi was about to speak, the chestnut-haired girl pinched his waist and gave it a slight twist.

"Xiao Zhi! Can you please not be so inappropriate? Nan Yin just came back from that awful place, Bei Shang Township, and hasn't even had a chance to rest before facing your challenge. Besides, this is a welcome-back feast that everyone has prepared for her."

"It hurts, it hurts!"

He shouted repeatedly, but his companions persuaded him to give up the idea.

"That's right, that's right. If Xiaozhi doesn't understand romance, no one will like him in the future. Brother should learn from him too."

Echoing Serena's words, Yulijia nodded in agreement.

"Gourmet! Don't talk nonsense, I would never do what Ash did!"

His face flushed, but he remained resolute in his denial; Citron had no desire to attract too much attention.

"Yes, sit down quickly. Don't be shy, everyone is waiting for you to sit down."

He patted his apprentice on the shoulder, and everyone's eyes focused on him. The casual conversation ceased, and goodwill slowly settled in the tacit understanding.

"......Um."

Unable to refuse their kind invitation, she found herself surrounded by kindred spirits who had formed a bond with Nanyin along the way, including mentors and close friends who had shown her kindness. They had helped her meet the children and helped her overcome the crisis.

These are the reasons why I travel.

With everything in order, at the same moment, Master Fu clasped his hands together, signaling the official start of the banquet.

Bowls, chopsticks, knives, and forks were set out first, and then elegantly dressed waiters entered the room and served the food one by one.

Without moving any tools, the old man suddenly stood up, looked at everyone with a smile, as if to remind them of something.

"Before we officially start eating, everyone, let's say that together: even if we haven't been apart for too long, when a traveler returns home, as elders and as fellow travelers, we should say a word."

"Welcome to Nanyin music—"