The next day.
Spent a night at the Poke Center in Aindoak.
With so many people pouring into Aindoak, the Poke Center should have been fully booked with free accommodation.
But because Natsuhiko and Lance both have the identity of Investigators, they belong to the "special crowd."
And for people like them, every Poke Center will reserve a certain number of rooms.
Thus, Natsuhiko enjoyed "special treatment" openly.
Early the next morning.
The streets of Aindoak became very lively, besides Trainers from all over with their Pokémon, there were also many locals in deep red classical attire.
Some of these locals are true descendants of the "Earth People," simply wearing their original attire.
While others, who came to Aindoak later, gradually became accustomed to and accepted this custom, they are considered half "Earth People."
"Morning."
Sheba, who was exercising with Machamp in the yard, waved to the just-awakened Natsuhiko and Lance.
Looking at the white breath he exhaled, it was obvious Sheba had gotten up long ago and might have finished a round of morning training.
Success for some people is not entirely accidental.
A bit of talent is indispensable,
But nine parts of effort are the key and most important thing to fulfill talent.
"Mr. Sheba, is this the Pokémon you're preparing to compete with?" Natsuhiko couldn't help but ask, looking at the robust Machamp.
Distinct muscle definition, powerfully built limbs, calluses on the fists, it's evident this is a well-trained Machamp, likely with Elite Candidate Level strength.
Could it be that Sheba wants to win badly by sending an Elite Candidate Level Pokémon to a baby cup?
Upon hearing this, Sheba smiled and scratched the back of his head.
"Haha—yes, I don't have many Pokémon with me, this little guy is the only one lacking training, aren't you guys participating too? Perfect for increasing its battle experience."
Little… guy?
Natsuhiko looked at Machamp's fists that were bigger than his own head, wondering where the "little" was.
"Niko~"
Upon hearing Sheba's words, Machamp's face inadvertently showed a hint of blush, though it was barely noticeable, Natsuhiko still caught it.
Suddenly.
His expression froze.
Could this Machamp be one of the rarest kind... a female Machamp?!
"Then Sheba, you better be ready for a beating," Lance said with confidence.
"Hahaha—bring it on."
The two "battle maniacs" declared their battle intentions early in the morning.
Natsuhiko gave Sheba a peculiar look, then glanced at Lance, silently shaking his head.
Better not get involved if it's avoidable.
In a small pond match, just happily keep bombing the pond, no need for undercover counterattacks.
"I'm hungry, let's go eat breakfast." Sheba slapped Machamp and said to the two.
...
...
"First, welcome everyone to Aindoak. Next, during the 'Winter Festival,' please show your utmost enthusiasm, challenge each other! Show your charisma!"
As Aindoak's mayor, Mormondo stood on the stage with a microphone excitedly announcing the beginning of the "Winter Festival."
The rules of the "Winter Festival" are simple.
Each participant will hold a wooden pendant, the winning party acquires the pendant, while the losing party surrenders their pendant. At the end of the last day, whoever has the most pendants becomes the Champion.
Any participant can invite and challenge other participants with pendants, refusal is not allowed.
The battle rules are that each person can only dispatch one Pokémon for battle.
Meaning victory is decided in a single round.
Following Mormondo's announcement, some participants, fueled with passion, started battling immediately below the stage.
The crowd, eager to watch battles, naturally gathered around.
Giving both players quite a bit of attention.
Meanwhile, Natsuhiko and the others gracefully walked out of the crowd under Machamp's unreasonable strength.
"What do you say?" Lance asked.
"Although I'm quite eager to have a match with you guys, starting off with a battle seems too dull, shall we meet up later?" Sheba suggested.
"Alright."
Both looked towards Natsuhiko.
Natsuhiko adjusted his hat, smiling as he said, "I'm fine with it."
"Then let's just head out for some free time first." Sheba said a line and left briskly with Machamp.
"Should I leave too?"
Lance pointed to the alley next door.
"Mm."
Watching Lance leave with Charizard, Natsuhiko smacked his mouth.
Everyone.
Taking a baby cup this seriously, do they really think others won't cry?
"Chako ee?"
Watching Natsuhiko, whose smile was gradually turning quirky, Togekiss reminded with a comment.
"Ahem—" Natsuhiko retracted his expression, patting its wings and murmuring softly, "Let's wait for a bit, no rush."
A whole day is available.
Speaking.
Walked towards the edge of the plaza.
Since Aindoak is a town built halfway up the mountain, this plaza is also at the town's edge, so when Natsuhiko walked towards the railing, he looked out to see a vast forest covered entirely by snow and ice.
Further away.
There was no snow cover.
Because there lies a bay, and beyond is a vast ocean.
The slight chill hadn't reached Aindoak yet, being taken away by an invisible stream of air.
So the mountains remain lush with greenery, with streams flowing gently.
Sitting on the chair, with his hands on the railing, overlooking this misty mountainous terrain.