Pokémon: Trainer Paul

The sky was overcast thick with heavy clouds, and the air felt oppressively still, with a weighty pressure hinting at an imminent downpour.

In the next moment, it seemed as though a torrential rainstorm would break loose.

Paul's journey continued, and today, he found himself standing before an unusual cave entrance. He decided it would be a good place to take shelter from the impending rain.

After his recent victory at the Hearthome Gym, Paul had sent his Electabuzz back to his brother, Reggie, asking him to work with Professor Rowan to conduct a thorough examination of the Pokémon.

If any issues were discovered, they would be addressed immediately. If nothing was wrong, Electabuzz could rest and train in the daycare.

Every time Paul thought of his Electabuzz being sent away, he couldn't help but recall the moment after their last training session. Electabuzz had stared teary-eyed at Ursaring, letting out a loud "Ele-buzz!" in a bittersweet farewell.

Electabuzz: You big oaf, just you wait!

When I'm back, I'll pummel you into the ground!

I'll defeat you so thoroughly, even your trainer won't recognize you!

Paul, finding such scenes overly sentimental, quickly recalled both Pokémon into their Poké Balls before they could have a public display of affection—or conflict.

Afterward, Paul departed Hearthome City, heading toward his hometown, Veilstone City.

Unfortunately, he hadn't traveled far before the ominous skies forced him to seek temporary shelter.

"This area shouldn't have any caves... When did this one appear?"

Raindrops began to fall as Paul stood at the entrance, eyeing the deep shadowy cave that seemed to stretch endlessly into the earth.

He distinctly remembered traveling this path with Reggie years ago. At the time, there hadn't been any caves—just a clear route leading straight to Solaceon Town.

"Could it be newly excavated ruins? Judging by the rough edges, it looks freshly dug…"

The area between Hearthome City and Solaceon Town was a hotbed for archaeological exploration. This region, rich in ancient ruins, was among the most renowned in all of Sinnoh.

In fact, the Hearthome Gym Badge was named the Relic Badge in honor of the region's numerous ruins.

Looking up at the rain-soaked sky again, Paul realized the storm wouldn't pass anytime soon. He decided to explore the mysterious cave that had seemingly appeared out of nowhere.

Inside, the cave was dimly lit, so Paul released his Vulpix from its Poké Ball.

"Vul~"

The Vulpix, its eyes glowing faintly blue, used its psychic power to float onto Paul's shoulder, attempting to perch there like it had done in the past.

However, before Paul could throw it off, Vulpix realized it had grown too large for such antics. With a pouty expression, it hopped back to the ground.

Good news: It's grown up!

Bad news: It's grown too much.

The Vulpix, now slightly larger than average, could still sit on Paul's shoulder, but it would be uncomfortable for both of them.

Noticing its disappointment, Paul reassured it, "Don't feel bad. Once you evolve, you'll grow even larger. Think of this as preparation."

Vulpix: o(╥﹏╥)o

Clearly, Paul's attempt at comfort only added salt to the wound.

"Follow me and light the way." Paul commanded, ignoring its dejection.

"Vul~"

The duo ventured deeper into the cave. Contrary to the darkness Paul had expected, the cave seemed to glow with an inexplicable light, illuminating everything around them.

The initial stretch of the cave appeared like a crudely dug tunnel. However, as they proceeded further, the atmosphere began to change.

Reaching the end of the tunnel, Paul discovered a staircase and walls constructed from solid stone bricks.

Intricate carvings and symbols adorned the walls, possibly representing the beliefs or language of the ruins' creators.

The staircase descended into the earth, vanishing into the unknown. The upper staircase however, was blocked by rubble, its destination was unclear.

This was clearly an ancient ruin, one so old that its discovery was likely accidental—perhaps by a Pokémon digging into it.

"Did some Pokémon stumble in here?"

Paul examined the surroundings, noting signs of recent activity. The stone steps and walls bore numerous cracks and marks, likely caused by the Pokémon that had unearthed the site.

It wasn't hard to imagine a scenario where the Pokémon while digging, suddenly found itself tumbling down the staircase.

"Let's head down."

"Vul~"

Paul descended the wide stone steps, Vulpix alert and vigilant as it scanned their surroundings.

Although it knew it wasn't strong enough to match its trainer in battle, Vulpix took its role as protector seriously.

After descending for what felt like several dozen meters, they reached the bottom where a massive broken door stood with a gaping hole in its center.

Peering cautiously through the opening, Paul saw a vast hall with a raised platform at its heart.

Near the platform, a gray armored Pokémon with a powerful build and a drill-like horn rested on the ground.

"Rhydon, huh? No wonder the damage is so extensive."

Paul recognized the Pokémon immediately.

Rhydon might have its shortcomings in certain areas, but when it came to digging, it was unmatched. With its drill, it could carve through stone, mountains, and anything else in its path—including the sturdy doors of ancient ruins.

Given its destructive prowess, encountering a Rhydon here wasn't surprising.

However, what truly captured Paul's attention was the platform.

From a distance, he could see three glowing orbs resting atop it, surrounding a stone slab carved into a circular shape. The objects radiated an unmistakable air of mystery, clearly no ordinary artifacts.

Interestingly, the platform was completely intact, suggesting that the Rhydon had avoided it intentionally, perhaps sensing danger.

Having observed enough, Paul stepped into the hall with Vulpix by his side.

Thud.

"Roooar~"

The sound of their steps alerted the Rhydon, which immediately opened its eyes and let out a warning growl.

Paul wasted no time.

"Vulpix, prepare for battle!"

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