Pokemon: Sandstorm Elite

Deep within Cinnabar Island, Klein was reviewing and organizing his Pokémon data.

His Pokédex database was linked to a dream simulation system, automatically recording battle data from every Pokémon he encountered. This information was then integrated into his dream training environment, allowing him to simulate future battles.

To categorize his Pokémon, Klein sorted them based on regional numbering systems from his past life. Each Pokémon had its own data card template, and after the Shinto Ruins battle, he had fully integrated battle records of Giratina, the Kamiyama family, and the upper ranks of Team Dim Sun into his virtual opponents.

During his brief clash with Pryce in Stagthorn Town, Klein had carefully analyzed the strategies used by Cloyster and Mamoswine, as well as the precise coordination among Pryce's other Pokémon. It had given him a clearer understanding of an Elite Four-level peak battler's strength.

Currently, his collection included eighty marked data cards.

Excluding his still-missing Emboar, he had seventy-nine Pokémon in total, including his newly captured Tsareena. He had divided them into four strategic divisions, refining them into specialized teams.

In particular, Delphox and Alolan Ninetales were key members of his second and third squads.

Klein was clearly preparing four distinct battle formations. While the fourth team was still under development, the first three had been mostly structured.

Having multiple squads was necessary—adaptability was crucial in high-level battles.

Even Bruno and Lorelei, aside from their main dual-core teams, had backup squads with different type compositions.

"You were supposed to be resting. How did you already throw yourself back into work?"

Agatha tapped her cane as she watched Klein rapidly typing on his computer, compiling battle data and analyzing Pokémon strategies.

This old woman had lived long enough to see countless trainers rise and fall, but Klein's boundless energy was truly exhausting to witness.

"Time is short. Cynthia will be here soon," Klein said without looking up.

"You're actually planning to take this battle seriously?"

At the mention of Cynthia, Klein's eyes gleamed with pure fighting spirit.

"She is one of the world's greatest trainers—how could I not be excited to battle her?"

Agatha sighed.

"Fine, fine. Do as you like. But I didn't come here to talk about your battle plans—I need you to handle something for me."

She handed Klein a photograph.

"In the deep regions of Cinnabar Island, the mineral deposits are decreasing. I suspect some Pokémon is feeding on the lava minerals."

The photo showed a small shadowy figure, but its species was uncertain.

Since Klein was the Sandstorm Elite, and his Pokémon were well-suited for ground-based exploration, Agatha wanted him to investigate the disturbance.

"I understand. I'll head out immediately."

As Klein walked away, Agatha chuckled to herself.

"Make sure to seize this opportunity, Sandstorm Elite."

Eternal Dream Manor – Johto Region

Having finished his bath and changed into fresh clothes, Kamiyama Naga looked less pale than when he had first been unsealed. His improved complexion also put him in a better mood, while Komon sat nearby, lazily sipping his drink.

"You're not going to interfere in the Johto League's council restructuring?"

"No need. No one in Johto wants the Kamiyama family around anymore. Instead of staying, I might as well leave."

Hearing Naga's decision to leave Johto, Komon rolled his eyes.

"And where are you planning to go?"

"Kanto."

Komon raised an eyebrow.

"The aftermath of the Shinto Ruins incident—you're really just going to ignore it?"

"Not my problem. I'm letting Blake handle it."

Naga had never been particularly interested in the Shinto Ruins. Four years ago, his trip to Hoenn had simply been a reckless bet against his father.

For him, it had been nothing more than a game.

A game with winners and losers.

And for Naga, the thrill of the game was the only thing that ever truly mattered.

Lucas' lost arm, an entire city's destruction—to Naga, those were just part of the game's results.

His disregard for human life was so extreme that even his own family had struggled to tolerate it.

"The Sandstorm Elite, Klein… he'll be an interesting opponent," Naga mused.

Komon scoffed.

"Careful. He's an Elite Four member—and a total mad dog. You might be the one who ends up getting torn apart."

Naga didn't reply.

Instead, he studied a map, circling a random location in Kanto.

"I've made my decision. I'm selling off the last of the Kamiyama family assets and traveling to Kanto."

Komon yawned.

"Do whatever you want. Everything in that house belongs to you now—so feel free to waste it however you please."

"Exactly. My father and brother are dead. I'm the only one left to carry the Kamiyama name. And since no one in Johto wants me around, leaving is the best choice."

Komon shrugged.

"Alright, but… why Kanto?"

"No particular reason."

Naga stretched.

"But the first stop of my Kanto trip definitely won't be Saffron City. That name is way too boring."

"...Why do I even bother asking?"

Naga leaned back, sipping his tea.

"Though, if I'm going to rebuild the Kamiyama family, maybe I should find myself a wife first?"

Komon didn't even look up.

"Do whatever you want."

Celadon City – New Pokémon Center

In the massive eco-reserve behind the new Pokémon Center, Emboar let out a burst of fire, carefully roasting a meal. Serperior coiled nearby, tossing in fresh ingredients with expert precision.

The two Pokémon had worked together for years—their coordination was flawless.

Nearby, Rosa placed down feeding bowls, calling over a group of abandoned Pokémon to eat.

At the same time, Audino gently cradled a few baby Pokémon, carefully feeding them specially formulated milk. The tiny Pokémon giggled in delight.

"You haven't changed, Rosa."

Standing beside her was Nurse Joy from Celadon's main Pokémon Center.

"You always preferred making fresh meals instead of using pre-made Pokémon food."

Most Pokémon Centers used processed food pellets, designed for efficient nutrition.

But Rosa insisted on cooking with raw ingredients.

Joy sighed.

"Rosa, there's something I need to discuss with you."

"The new Pokémon Center on Cinnabar Island was supposed to have a designated Joy, but due to a family emergency, the assigned Nurse Joy can't transfer there."

"That means… we need an experienced caretaker to manage the center."

"And right now, you are the best candidate."

Rosa listened carefully, then nodded.

"I don't mind transferring—but what about these Pokémon? They won't survive in Cinnabar's climate. I can only bring my own team."

When Rosa had first woken up in Kanto, her Poké Balls and Pokédex were completely destroyed.

Yet, her Pokémon had remained by her side—Serperior, Emboar, Alolan Ninetales, and Audino had all stayed to protect her.

Since she had lost her memories, Nurse Joy had taken her in.

Now, she had grown attached to the Pokémon under her care.

If a new caretaker replaced her, would they treat these abandoned Pokémon properly?

Or would they simply dispose of them?

"Don't worry," Joy reassured her.

"I'll personally oversee this center."

"But what about the main city center?"

Joy chuckled.

"You underestimate me."

"And besides, Lisia will be returning soon—she'll help manage the main Pokémon Center."

Cinnabar Island's underground caverns.

Molten rock bubbled and churned.

A small Pokémon sat at the heart of the lava, meditating.

Then—

Its eyes snapped open.

A massive eruption of lava exploded around it.

The tiny figure absorbed the minerals, its body beginning to transform.

Klein had no idea…

But his long-awaited second Sandstorm Core Pokémon had just emerged on Cinnabar Island.

(End of Chapter.)