c186: The Doubles Match Begins! The Fiery Zvitch
After several days of rest and adjustment, Qin Yun's Pokémon had long since recovered to peak condition.
When Kenin opened the box presented to her, she instantly recognized the contents without hesitation.
"Without him, none of this revolutionary advancement would exist," she said solemnly.
President Zvitch had personally dispatched a professional-level trainer to Qin Yun's side, responsible for coaching him and offering tactical support during this crucial event.
Qin Yun sighed inwardly. He had to admit, Zvitch's understanding of human psychology was nothing short of terrifyingly precise.
Yet despite the advantages, Qin Yun didn't enjoy being in the spotlight.
"I'm delighted to welcome so many outstanding young trainers here today," Zvitch announced warmly. "Even the students from ordinary universities deserve recognition."
Zvitch had originally considered inviting elite-class powerhouses to make the event even grander, but Qin Yun dismissed the idea too much attention could be dangerous.
Still, Qin Yun had a premonition.
He really didn't want his identity and strength to be exposed on such a massive platform. It wasn't a matter of modesty, it was survival.
When Zvitch glanced at him with a knowing, playful smile, Qin Yun looked away.
"Everyone must be very curious about what's in the box," Zvitch teased, holding up the mysterious case.
The crowd leaned forward.
"Power cubes? No... these are far beyond that. These are... Active Cubes."
There was a collective gasp.
"That's… beyond expectations," Kenin muttered.
"What a pity some still underestimate what's coming," Qin Yun thought, already analyzing the upcoming battle configurations and team synergy.
Rustboro was famous for its doubles tradition nearly every student had experience in tag battles or duo sparring formats.
"Fortunately, he's still supporting my research directly from the stands today," Zvitch added, nodding discreetly toward Qin Yun. "I sincerely thank him."
Doubles battles here weren't just for show many rookies had practiced over 427 rounds just to qualify.
"But worry not," Zvitch added, "because of the overwhelming participation this year, we've decided to raise the prize rewards significantly."
"All expenses will be covered by Devon Corporation."
The announcement drew murmurs of amazement.
The gap between Rustboro and other regions was glaring.
But no one could've predicted that the mysterious figure Zvitch referenced was an eighteen-year-old prodigy.
Qin Yun had never even challenged Rustboro Gym not because he couldn't, but because there was no need. He had nothing to prove.
"Now, let's welcome Devon Corporation's President Zvitch and Gym Leader Kenin to the stage!"
"Let Solaceon's candidates try it first," someone joked. "The early matches are warm-ups."
Even Kenin was curious who exactly had Zvitch been hinting at this whole time?
Now it made sense why Zvitch had looked so amused when hearing Qin Yun had registered he was the very subject of his cryptic speech.
If even someone like Kenin couldn't create such a sensation, then it truly was a miracle.
Petalburg Province, by comparison, placed far less emphasis on trainer education. Top students often left for larger capitals or aimed straight for Caiyou University.
"Today, 680 teams are registered, totaling 981 participants."
In Rustboro, you could forget the governor's name but not Zvitch or Kenin.
Rustboro's high school program was legendary. Their senior students regularly outperformed even elite-level trainers from Petalburg.
Qin Yun had experienced what it was like to be a "rich second-generation" these past few days he was no longer just a strong trainer, but a shareholder and influencer.
With a resigned smile, Qin Yun realized Zvitch had been referring to him all along.
Devon Corporation—Hoenn's largest manufacturing entity and the industry titan behind countless tech innovations—was backing him.
As soon as Kenin and Zvitch's names were announced, the crowd exploded with cheers.
It was no surprise Zvitch was one of Rustboro's most respected figures.
Kenin, the gym leader, was not only Rustboro's strongest trainer on paper she was also its educational cornerstone.
"I don't have the strength to defend the Active Block alone," Qin Yun admitted privately.
Rustboro's competitive level was overwhelming.
"This event is jointly sponsored by Devon Manufacturing Co., Rustboro Gym, and several tech firms," the announcer declared.
Among the top universities in Hoenn, Caiyou University stood unrivaled. Rustboro University, however, placed a solid third, largely thanks to its local support and Kenin's academic dedication.
Qin Yun didn't realize the professional trainer sent to guide him had already been defeated by him during a previous session—and had felt ashamed since.
After this showcase, Active Cubes would likely trend across Hoenn.
Zvitch and Kenin now sat at the judges' platform, exchanging knowing glances.
Each province's training culture differed Petalburg rarely hosted doubles events, making today's event even more extraordinary.
Zvitch extended his hand theatrically and pointed toward the field.
That person… was now a participant.
When Qin Yun heard the announcement about Devon Corp, a subtle smirk appeared on his face.
Private training from Gym Leaders like Kenin required scheduled appointments, yet Qin Yun now had unrestricted access.
Revealing too much about his system-derived strength could put him and his family in serious danger.
"Haha, I won't keep it a secret from you all," Zvitch said.
Steven Stone, once a legend, was now an afterthought compared to the city's latest pride.
And it was Qin Yun who had pushed their performance to the limit.
"What's this?" someone murmured as Qin Yun saw the glowing box.
Zvitch gave Kenin an apologetic nod.
"This is the Active Cube."
As he said that, his gaze turned profound and focused.
Petalburg University had placed only eighth in the regional standings.
Kenin's eyes widened how could she not have known about this new prize structure?
"The box… could it be…?" she whispered.
Had it not been for Qin Yun's cooperation with Devon Corp, he might've trained at Kenin's gym as originally planned. But now, as a key investor, that was unnecessary.
Zvitch opened the box, and a burst of energy-rich aroma filled the air.
"This should've been witnessed by a close friend," he said, "but he's a low-profile person who doesn't like appearing in public."
With a clap of his hands, two Machamps carried a heavy, metal-bound suitcase onto the stage.
Zvitch stepped forward and solemnly unlocked it.
Although the Active Cube wasn't identical to Mikey's globally circulated Energy Cubes, Kenin had seen enough variants to instantly confirm its value.
Had the Yurong City Team Battle been held in Rustboro, Qin Yun might never have won he'd barely have qualified for the finals.
Described by Zvitch with admiration, everyone now stared at the glowing object inside the case.
It wasn't hard to guess: this was the next step beyond the Energy Cube.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Rustboro's premier doubles tournament!"
"Experience and age matter history proves the old still have their fire," Zvitch chuckled.
After all, the elite trainers employed by Devon weren't just strong they were legends. Even Zvitch had to ask Solaceon to assign one to Qin Yun personally.
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