You're not allowed to play Pokémon!

Chapter 367: Is it a bit cruel to make Qingyu one of the Four Heavenly Kings...?

With Qingyu entering his and his companions' information into the system, the final of the Superpower Masters Tournament came to a close.

Amidst enthusiastic cheers from the audience, A-du, the host, temporarily took on the role of an award presenter, holding an award ceremony for the winners.

"Congratulations, Ms. Yu. We look forward to your even better performances on the world stage in the future."

Adu smiled and clapped his hands, presenting a slightly miniature trophy that could be held in one hand. At the same time, he mysteriously took out a small bottle from the inside pocket of his trench coat.

"This is a prize prepared by the Johto region as the host for the champion."

Qingyu nodded, took the two prizes he handed over with both hands, and held up the obviously unusual small glass bottle at eye level.

Inside were many strange powders that emitted a golden glow and still shone brightly even in the dark.

"This is……"

Qingyu's pupils contracted slightly, and a bold idea instantly formed in her mind.

“Holy ash?”

"...Teacher Yu actually knew?"

A-Du blinked, looking surprised, but after a moment's thought, he quickly nodded in relief.

"That makes sense. After all, Teacher Yu seems to have a side job as a mythologist, dedicated to popularizing the charm of legendary Pokémon to all mankind. It's not surprising that he knows some information about Ho-Oh."

"By the way, if you need any help when you release Kanto or Johto series games in the future, please feel free to contact me."

"...Definitely, definitely."

After A-Du said that, Qingyu suddenly broke out in a cold sweat.

The dodo's unspoken meaning is already quite clear:

I need an update soon, I can't sleep tonight!
I feel like I'm being pressured to update my content everywhere I go. This kind of offline behavior is not advisable!
The casual conversation with Adu quickly came to an end. While Hu Tao continued to create atmosphere and talked endlessly at the commentary booth, Qingyu's eyes were unconsciously drawn to the holy ash in his hand.

[Holy Ash: When Ho-Oh's sacred flame burns out, there is a chance that ash rich in life energy will appear, which the monks of the Burnt Tower regard as a symbol of God.]

Holy Ash is a very rare and extremely difficult-to-obtain special item in the game.

Although its effect is just a large Energy Cube, which has the powerful ability to instantly revive all Pokémon in the same party, its presence as a one-time use item is not very noticeable.

However, putting aside its function in the game, Holy Ash is actually a rather prestigious material.

It is said to be the product of Ho-Oh's sacred flame burning away, containing a powerful life force from a legendary Pokémon.

For trainers, it is naturally an invaluable treasure, and it might even be able to revive a companion in a critical moment.

That's roughly equivalent to having an extra resurrection coin.

Of course, it would be even better if it were the "Rainbow Feather" from Ho-Oh's tail, which has a stronger effect.

It's a pity we can't exchange it.

After all, a full 150 years have passed since Ho-Oh disappeared from the Burnt Tower. With all that time, the entire Indigo League probably couldn't produce one, so Holy Ash is already the highest-level prize.

Qingyu nodded and put the small bottle and trophy into her pocket.

Thus, his first international competition trip came to a successful conclusion.

Just as Qingyu was about to leave, a perfectly synchronized gasp suddenly erupted from the audience.

Qingyu was a little puzzled by this, so she subconsciously looked up and discovered the reason for people's surprise.

On the big screen, a short old man with white hair and beard but bright, piercing eyes appeared.

"Look, it's President Damalanqi!"

Wow, I didn't expect there to be a surprise in the Attribute Master Tournament?

"It must be related to the rumors that the media had previously mentioned that there would be some exciting news after the Superpower Masters Tournament, right?"

"It seems to be related to a brand new event? Hopefully it's not fake news..."

Amidst the chatter around her, Qingyu's gaze remained fixed on the old man on the screen.

Damaranchi is the head of all regional tournaments in the Pokémon League. He has appeared many times in the anime and is known by many as "the greatest person in the Pokémon League." He has dedicated his life to supporting the development of the league and its tournaments.

Although Qingyu had never met him, she still felt genuine admiration for such a pure and simple person.

But I hadn't heard anything about him making an appearance before.

Other viewers were equally puzzled, and Ms. Hu Tao didn't seem to have any intention of explaining, and may even have already muted her microphone.

"Cough-cough-"

As Chairman Dama Lanqi spoke, the room suddenly fell silent, with everyone eagerly anticipating what interesting news he would bring.

Fortunately, he did not disappoint.

"It's unbearable~ Such an exciting competition, but I can't be there to watch it live. It's making me so frustrated I'm about to lose all my beard..."

"However, I think all this waiting will be worthwhile so that I can share the good news with everyone soon."

Like Professor Oak, Chairman Damaranchi is also a very lively old man who makes people feel very friendly with just a few words.

Of course, most people's focus is naturally on the "good news" he's about to tell.

"Pokémon Champion seems to be quite popular lately, right? Even ordinary people who have never been a trainer should have heard of this phenomenal game, right?"

"It feels great to be able to play against others anytime, anywhere!"

"However, what I'm actually more interested in is another highly popular ranking mode."

Once the serious business was discussed, President Dama Lanqi quickly smiled.

The hint he just gave was clear enough for Qingyu—

What is the most distinctive feature of Pokémon Champion?
Of course, it's doubles, which used to be a niche sport but has recently become very popular since it was opened up!

Since Qingyu's outrageous tactics became popular, many trainers have been willing to engage with him in the game, and people have thus fully experienced the unique charm of the doubles rules.

Could it be that……

Just as Qingyu's mind was racing and her eyes were clearly filled with anticipation as she looked at the big screen, President Dama Lanqi spoke again:
"That's right! After discussions among various departments of the league, in order to fill the gap in the once-every-four-years Masters Championship, starting this year, the league's official events will finally welcome a brand new tournament!"

"The inaugural international doubles tournament at the advanced ball level will be held this September in Miare, Carlos region!!!"

"Since this is the first major tournament, the rules have been changed to an invitation-only format. Elite trainers who receive invitations are free to form teams and fully enjoy the charm of doubles matches in this tournament!"

really!

Upon hearing this, Qingyu immediately smiled.

If he still needs time to adapt to singles, then doubles rules are undoubtedly his comfort zone, naturally putting him at a level above other trainers in the world.

Moreover, the timing is perfect. September is the time when students finish their championship assessment and return to school for make-up classes, so I definitely have time to participate.

As for the number of invitations...

I just won the championship, it wouldn't be right not to send out an invitation!
With favorable timing, location, and popular support, aren't we all on our side?
Just as Qingyu was pondering, he suddenly felt a burning gaze coming from beside him, so he subconsciously turned his head away.

The source of his gaze was, of course, A-Du, the only living person beside him. As for the reason why he was so excited...

"Teacher Yu, you should be interested in participating in the new competition that President Dama Lanqi mentioned, right?"

"How about... we agree to team up first?"

Indeed, upon hearing this bombshell news, A-Du's first reaction was to look at the Paradis Superman beside him.

Unlike the previous singles competition rules, this special event requires them to find teammates to cooperate, and the tactics of doubles are more complex, which may be difficult for many elite trainers to adapt to.

Of course, when it comes to doubles tactics, those of them who play wild games are certainly not bad either.

But when it comes to tactics, who can compare to Coach Yu?
They are both highly skilled and adept at designing ingenious tactics for different situations. Moreover, they are already very familiar with each other, so their teamwork is effortless.

This is the perfect teammate right here!
Adu had to admit that he did have a slight desire to curry favor with someone powerful.

"..."

Qingyu hadn't expected that Adu would make a move against her so quickly.

As a teammate, A-Du is of course the best choice, and in theory, I don't have much to complain about.

but……

Qingyu's gaze still unconsciously drifted towards the audience seats above.

Two familiar blonde figures came into view. Among them, Gadriya was talking to Zhulan with great enthusiasm, her expression even showing a hint of excitement.

As for Zhu Lan, she smiled and shook her head. After whispering something to her, she suddenly turned to look at herself.

Without a word, a single glance was enough for both of them to understand each other's thoughts.

"Excuse me, Mr. Adu."

Qingyu smiled and nodded politely to Adu.

"I think I already have an appointment with someone."

Adu slowly typed out a question mark.

The news was just released seconds ago, how do you already have teammates?
However, when he followed Qingyu's gaze to the audience seats, he suddenly realized something.

No...it seems like I am the one with the problem?
As fellow young people, Qingyu and Zhulan should have more to talk about and be able to cooperate better during battles.

Moreover, their relationship seems to be somewhat unusual.

I almost messed things up, thankfully I realized it in time...

A-Du, who saw through everything in an instant, revealed a reliable middle-aged man's smile, patted Qing-Yu on the shoulder with a smile, and then left without saying anything.

Qingyu was completely baffled by this.

Why does A-Du suddenly have this "I understand everything" expression, as if he's said nothing but also said everything?

After all, who could have guessed that the reason A-Du would suddenly leave was—

As a dragon messenger who has dedicated his life to upholding justice and constantly honing his skills, Awata has no experience in this area and has no idea what to say to Aoba.

Therefore, the only option is to leave in my own way and give Qingyu the greatest possible support.

This is the responsibility of a reliable man!

……

At the same time that Qingyu won the championship, the Padiya League...

On the large screen in the League meeting room, Qingyu directed Lucario to launch a frontal assault on Sabrina's Alakazam, instantly defeating the opponent with an absurdly fast attack.

After witnessing this scene, the alliance members present fell silent for some reason, and Xin Li even lowered her head somewhat guiltily.

"What's going on... Shouldn't Qingyu's skill level be similar to those three Heavenly Kings? Why is it that even in the Superpower Master Tournament, where the attributes aren't even well-matched, he gets completely crushed...?"

"And what's with that Mewtwo? Was it Qingyu's hidden trump card all along?"

"This is completely different from the conclusion he reached when I took Poppi to the assessment!"

Xin Li sighed helplessly, her heart filled with groans. She didn't know whether to be happy or sad about Qing Yu's performance in the Attribute Master Tournament.

Good news: Qingyu has won the championship!
Bad news: How did Qingyu win the championship?!

As a newcomer, none of the alliance members, including Ye Ci, had high expectations for him before he set off.

After all, based on the results of Xinli's personal assessment of Sunshine Dojo some time ago, Qingyu does indeed have the strength to serve as the temporary Elite Four member, but his combat power is mainly concentrated on Egui Peng.

As for Lucario and Sylveon, they are probably still a little short of being among the Elite Four's main force.

In Ye Ci's mind, as a newcomer who had only been a gym leader for half a year and was participating in an international competition for the first time, and who had no prior experience in commanding psychic Pokémon, it was already a very good result that Qing Yu was able to make it to the top eight with Lip, who was more skilled in psychic abilities.

But the result...

Isn't this a bit too much of a surprise?

No, it's also possible that Xinli seriously misjudged Qingyu's strength, which is why everyone underestimated him.

Under the "death stare" from Ye Ci, Xin Li was even more drenched in sweat.

"Um... when I tested him, I didn't know he had Indeedee and Mewtwo, you know?"

Under the invisible pressure from Ye Ci, Xin Li decisively raised her hand and forced herself to speak.

"Judging from Sylveon and Lucario alone, Qingyu's level is probably just that of a relatively strong Gym Leader."

"But if we include these two and Egui Peng, with the overall strength of the Qingyu team, they are more than qualified to be the Heavenly Kings."

"Therefore, this cannot be considered a misjudgment on my part!"

Xinli is also suffering a lot.

Who knew that Qingyu would suddenly have two such powerful fighters in his hands, one of which, Mewtwo, could even Mega Evolve, and it dominated its opponents throughout the entire Masters Tournament...

That's not the information she got from the students at the academy!
According to the students, Mewtwo was just a slightly special gym apprentice that Qingyu brought from somewhere. As a trainer, his level was very average, and he had never personally taken to the field in front of the students.

Like Oranguru, they are the brains of wild Pokémon groups in the wild, very good at commanding and directing, and naturally have the qualities to become trainers.

However, if we only evaluate its individual combat strength, even among wild Pokémon, Oranguru is not considered very strong.

Therefore, she didn't pay much attention to this new member of the Sunshine Dojo.

So this Mewtwo is actually this powerful?

Thinking of this, Xin Li's expression quickly turned pained.

Including the previous dojo qualification exam, it seems that Qingyu has already screwed himself over twice!
"It's really troublesome..."

Aoki, who had been listless and whose eyes had lost their sparkle, suddenly spoke, his face also showing pain as he rubbed his forehead.

"Given the current level of competition, if Qingyu were to become one of the Four Heavenly Kings, it would be impossible for any student to pass his test, right?"

"If no champion is crowned this year... perhaps we should think of other solutions."

"For example, the manpower to enter Zone Zero."

Ultimately, it's a bit too cruel to make Qingyu, who has already become a champion in high-level ball games, conduct a second evaluation of newcomers!
After Aoki finished speaking, Yaji immediately nodded.

"Well, but in any case, the emergence of a newcomer who is on par with the king is definitely not a bad thing."

Ye Ci's words were tantamount to a definitive assessment of Qing Yu, and at the same time, they made Xin Li and Qing Mu breathe a sigh of relief.

"At least for now, no one should have any objections to letting Qingyu take on the position of Heavenly King."

"Besides... the championship assessment is just a small matter. Just have Qingyu keep an eye on things and go easy on them so that not all the students are turned away."

"We dynamically adjust the difficulty of our tests to select the best students to be champions."

After saying that, Ye Ci suddenly turned her gaze to Aoki, who was standing to the side with a strong "classroom vibe".

"As for restarting the exploration of Zone Zero in the future, perhaps it's time to talk to Qingyu about it."

How could she not understand the meaning behind Aoki's words?

After the accident in Zone Zero, the League's manpower was drastically reduced, and the three Kings each took on some of the responsibilities.

Aoki, who holds multiple positions, is not only a League staff member and an Elite Four member, but also serves as the Gym Leader of Jinhui Town and resides near Jinhui Town.

Its main purpose is to guard the entrance to the nearby Sector Zero to prevent Paradox Pokémon from escaping.

The Heavenly King's dispatch of troops abroad was a choice made out of necessity. It's not that they hadn't considered taking care of all the troublesome paradoxes in Zone Zero in one fell swoop.

The problem is, the Padian League is genuinely short of manpower right now...

That's why they're waiting for a new champion to emerge, which would at least help them figure out the current situation in Zone Zero.

Of course, it would be even better if we had a reliable trainer of Qingyu's caliber; his fighting strength is definitely not comparable to that of a rookie champion.

Moreover, for various reasons, Qingyu himself may have his own reasons for having to enter Zone Zero.

"and many more."

Just as the three were gradually reaching a consensus, Hachisaku, who was sitting in the corner, suddenly stood up.

"It's certainly a good thing that Qingyu can become a king, but compared to Zone Zero, shouldn't the championship assessment, which is closer, be the main focus?"

"Regarding where Qingyu should be placed on the road to the championship, I would like to put him first."

"As far as I know, all the outstanding students so far have been influenced by Qingyu to some extent, so I believe they will feel a sense of familiarity when they meet Qingyu, right?"

"Let Qingyu take the lead. Even if he loses, the students can learn more from the experience. Once he breaks through, he will definitely grow a lot."

"Therefore, I want to let as many students as possible receive Qingyu's guidance again."

As soon as Hachisaku finished speaking, Xinli, who was sitting next to him, subconsciously lowered her head, trying hard not to laugh.

Would students hope to see Aoba on the Road to the Championship?

This is the funniest joke she's heard all year!

They've been defeated by this great demon king guarding the newbie village countless times, and they finally managed to grind him down once, only to run into him again in the final round, and this time it was Qingyu at full power...

Well, I hope all the students this year are alright.

"I have no opinion."

Aoki quickly agreed with Hachisaku's idea.

"It should be a good thing for both sides, and Qingyu seems to know the students better, so it is indeed the best choice."

Following Hachisaku and Aoki, Shinri immediately raised her hand in agreement.

Seeing that the three Heavenly Kings all agreed with this idea, Ci quickly nodded.

"Since that's the case... then it's settled."

"After Qingyu returns, I will personally go to the Sunshine Dojo to discuss this with him."

(End of this chapter)