Chapter 19: Chapter 19: A unique Pokémon!
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Ignoring the slightly frustrated Professor Oak, today was an extremely joyful day for Liam.
Cradling the newly hatched Gible in his arms, he couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear.
Delia, full of curiosity, watched the little Gible lying on its back in Liam's arms. She gently poked its soft belly, marveling at the delightful texture that was almost addictive.
The sleeping Gible felt something odd on its belly and blindly stretched out its tiny front claws, trying to brush away the sensation. However, its arms were too short to reach.
With a dissatisfied wiggle, it turned over, leaving its rear end sticking up—a typical example of addressing one problem while ignoring another.
Delia burst into giggles at the sight.
"This little one is just too adorable! Liam, let's give it a name," Delia said, her eyes sparkling with excitement, fueled by what could only be described as a burning passion for naming.
"Uh... Idk about naming them, but sure, for formality's sake, let's give it a ceremonial name. But what kind of name should we choose? Do you have any good ideas?" Liam somewhat accepted her suggestion, generously passing the naming honor to Delia.
(Note: The original version had Pokémon names and the Pokémon were referred to by their nicknames after the MC named them, making it confusing and annoying at times. But don't worry, there won't be nicknames in this story. I'm changing things as I'm translating and giving them nicknames will just be ceremonial. Their won't be nicknames going forward in the story and the Pokémon will be referred to with their official names.)
"Me? You want me to name it? That's not a good idea. I'm terrible at naming things," Delia replied, feigning modesty. However, the flames in her eyes burned even brighter, betraying her eagerness.
"Ahem, no problem, no problem. Just share your thoughts, and we can discuss it together," Liam said with a smile.
Reluctantly, Delia nodded. Supporting her elbow with one hand and resting her chin on the other, she stared intently at the Gible in Liam's arms, lost in deep thought. After a moment, her eyes lit up as if struck by inspiration.
"I've got it! I've thought of a great name that's perfect for this little guy!" Delia declared with pride.
Curious, Liam motioned for her to share.
Giggling, she said, "This little one looks a bit clumsy right now, but I hope it will grow up to be really smart. Let's just call it Ash! I think it's a good name!"
The moment she finished speaking, Liam couldn't hold back and burst out laughing. He stared at Delia, wide-eyed, as if she had just said the most absurd thing in the world.
"Uh... What? Is there something wrong with the name I picked?" Delia asked, puzzled by his reaction.
Liam quickly shook his head. "No, no problem at all. It's just that... Gible can't possibly live up to such a legendary name. If we actually named it Ash, I might not live to see tomorrow. I'd be drowned in razor-sharp criticisms and laughter if word ever got out!"
"Huh??"
"Nothing, nothing. Ahem. I think a simpler name would be better. Look at this little guy—he's so pale. Let's call him Snowy. It's catchy, easy to remember, and fits him perfectly. Gible was practically born for this name! So, it's decided," Liam quickly concluded, afraid Delia might suggest another shocking name.
His decisiveness earned him an annoyed glare from Delia.
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[Ding!]
[Achievement Unlocked: Pokémon Name!]
[Pokémon are like family. Giving them a meaningful name or nickname, even a ceremonial one, is a trainer's duty. After all, it's the thought that counts.]
[Reward: 300 Exchange Points, TM Dragon Claw x1.]
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[Ding!]
[Mission Complete: Hatch That Pokémon-Egg!]
[Reward: 200 Exchange Points, random held item. Item drawn: Silver Powder.]
The sudden notification in his mind left Liam momentarily stunned.
The completion of the egg-hatching mission wasn't surprising, but unlocking an achievement as well was unexpected. It was a pleasant bonus, especially the Dragon Claw TM, which would be perfect for Gible.
After all, Gible had just hatched and probably only knew Tackle.
Liam used his scanning function on Gible, and the data appeared before his eyes.
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[Ding!]
Pokémon: Gible (Snowy)
Type: Dragon/Ground Type.
Species: Land Shark Pokémon
Ability: Sand Veil.
Nature: Jolly.
Gender: Male.
Moves: Tackle.
Egg Moves: Rock Climb.
Base Stats: Total: 313/300.
HP: 60/58
Attack: 75/70
Defense: 45
Special Attack: 40
Special Defense: 48/45
Speed: 45/42
Evaluation: Surpassing limits! Exceptional potential!
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Liam had only wanted to check Gible's moves, but seeing its base stats left him truly amazed. Gible's stats broke conventional boundaries! Liam couldn't help but wonder: Who could possibly compete with this?
"Liam? What's wrong? Why are you suddenly so quiet?" Delia nudged Liam's arm, snapping him out of his daze.
Shaking his head, Liam assured her it was nothing, though he couldn't hide the excitement in his eyes, which earned him another annoyed eye-roll from Delia.
Watching the two teenagers banter, Professor Oak finally spoke up after being ignored for so long.
"Ahem. Now that the egg has hatched and it's already past noon, let's head back. Otherwise, your Aunt Fumiko will start worrying. Delia, have you eaten yet? Why not join us for a meal?"
At Professor Oak's words, both Liam and Delia suddenly remembered his presence.
Delia panicked and hurriedly replied, "Oh no, it's already so late! I need to get home, or my parents will worry. I'll visit you next time, Professor Oak. Goodbye for now!"
She bowed deeply to the professor, glanced at Liam, and quickly put her straw hat on before dashing off.
Liam watched Delia disappear into the distance, feeling a faint sense of loss.
"Stop staring; she's already gone. Let's pack up the Pokémon and head back for lunch. I'm starving, and I need to document the data on this egg hatching," Professor Oak said, patting Liam on the back.
Feeling slightly embarrassed, Liam helped Oak recall the nearby Pokémon into their PokéBalls. The two then quickened their pace toward the Oak residence.