When Cain observed his surroundings again, he noticed that they were near Lake Verity. Only a short distance remained before they arrived. In a single day, they had reached the lake, proving just how frantic and demanding the daytime battles had been.
Moreover, after his recent advancement as an intermediate psychic, Cain felt the weight in his mind lighten considerably. The anxiety he had experienced due to the system's suspension also disappeared, restoring his characteristic state of calm.
He had managed to overcome his excessive dependence on the system, facing that inner shadow that had affected him so much.
He didn't know if his progress as a psychic had helped alleviate that emotional burden or if the very circumstances surrounding his advancement had led to his growth. Either way, Cain was aware of one thing: he was hungry.
Without wasting time, he improvised a campsite and began preparing dinner. His Pokémon, still exhausted but always attentive to their trainer's needs, used the last of their energy reserves to help him prepare a hearty meal. They were famished.
After finishing dinner, Cain decided to give them a short break and not push them into additional training. After all, they had fought nonstop throughout the day, pushing their bodies and abilities to the limit.
This battle marathon had not only left the Pokémon exhausted but had also strengthened their energy control and move execution.
Their progress was evident, though Cain didn't take the time to analyze it in detail. After eating and resting for a while, he decided to continue toward Lake Verity. Since they were so close, Cain was curious to see the lake with his own eyes.
Crossing one last stretch of forest, they finally reached the lake's edge. It was a colossal body of water, the legendary home of Azelf, the god of willpower. However, Cain knew that Azelf didn't actually reside in the lake, but rather, the place housed an entrance to the alternate world where the Pokémon lived.
Even if the lake were completely drained, there would be no trace of Azelf. At one point, Team Galactic had even attempted to do so using a device called the "Galactic Bomb" to dry up the lake completely, but it was a futile effort.
Cain sat by the lake, contemplating the reflection of the stars and the moon on its surface. It was as if the world had doubled, and he stood right between both realities. Reclining at the shore, he felt a deep sense of peace. His Pokémon accompanied him, also enjoying the serene beauty of the night.
In that moment, Cain allowed himself to imagine a world without intrigues or conflicts, a place where he could enjoy tranquil nights with his favorite Pokémon. After a day of battle and a satisfying meal, both he and his team found the rest they needed. The day's tension and fatigue seemed to completely fade away.
The silence and Cain's inner peace quickly led him to sleep. That night passed without interruptions; he didn't even assign a Pokémon to keep watch, yet no wild Pokémon approached to disturb them.
Cain woke up to the sensation of soft raindrops falling on his face. The sky was cloudy, and though the day had already begun, the sun remained hidden behind a thin veil of clouds. Cain wiped the water from his face and sat up.
He noticed he wasn't the only one awake. Near the shore, Poliwhirl stood watching the water and the Pokémon surfacing to breathe due to the rain. Cain approached and patted him on the head.
"Are you remembering what life was like before you joined me?" Cain asked. Since advancing to an intermediate psychic, his intuition had sharpened considerably. Though he had no proof, he felt his words were correct.
Poliwhirl turned his head toward Cain and nodded slightly, not denying his assumption. Once, he too had been like the Pokémon of the lake—carefree, enjoying peaceful days with many friends. Though his home wasn't as large as Lake Verity, his life had been comfortable and serene.
Before Cain could respond, Poliwhirl shook his head again, as if trying to convey something more. Despite the memories of his childhood, he was satisfied with his current life. He had found a trainer who cared for him and companions who supported him.
Cain smiled and patted his head again, turning his gaze toward the lake.
"Evolve, Poliwhirl."
Poliwhirl looked at him in surprise, but Cain maintained his calm expression, watching the water and the Pokémon swimming in it.
"It's the perfect moment. Evolve, and a surprise awaits you."
Determination filled Poliwhirl's eyes. Confident in his decision, Cain took out a high-quality enhancement potion and a special item—the King's Rock. Upon seeing the King's Rock, Poliwhirl was immediately captivated.
"Drink this first," Cain said, handing him the potion.
Poliwhirl, despite knowing it was bitter, drank it all in one gulp. Instantly, a surge of energy coursed through his body, intensifying his vitality. The other Pokémon, who were already awake, watched with excitement.
Even the Pokémon in the lake seemed to sense something. Numerous Poliwag and Poliwhirl emerged from the water, all staring at Cain and his companion. There was a solemn air in the atmosphere.
Cain placed the King's Rock on Poliwhirl's head. The latent energy in his body merged with the item's power, and a brilliant light enveloped the Pokémon, marking the beginning of his evolution.
From the lake, cries and chants echoed—a celebration that seemed to arise from the depths of the gathered Pokémon's hearts. It was as if they were witnessing a coronation ceremony.
"The new king has been crowned," Cain murmured as he watched the light. A smile formed on his face, for he knew that his team was about to welcome a new and powerful ally.
(End of chapter)