"How many more secrets do you have?" Cynthia's eyes glimmered with curiosity.
The public often said her main profession was archaeology, with being an Elite Four champion as merely a side gig. This wasn't unfounded. Her strength was undeniable, leading others to treat her battles as mere entertainment. But this only illustrated her passion for archaeology. It was her mission, a continuation of her ancestors' unfulfilled endeavors, a legacy of the shrine family.
Yet today, even she didn't expect to feel such a strong curiosity towards a man. This man was shrouded in mystery, compelling her to peel back the layers one by one.
"Yes." Carl replied straightforwardly.
There was nothing to hide about it. If this information became public, this place would undoubtedly become a sanctuary for Dragon-type Pokémon, possibly surpassing the likes of Mount Dragon in the Johto region. Cynthia analyzed this prospect.
"But I won't make it public," Carl stated firmly. "I don't want anyone disturbing my life, no one at all!"
That was a bit direct.
Cynthia understood Carl detected her probing and responded clearly.
"I won't say a word," Cynthia promised earnestly. She had her own pursuits and wouldn't force others to change their ways, even if she thought living idly was a waste of life. More importantly, she was rational. The fact that Carl allowed them to know these secrets, combined with how he easily subdued Garchomp, showed he was not to be trifled with. Besides, she wasn't one to gossip. Unless Carl's secrets somehow threatened the region, she wouldn't break her silence.
"I won't tell either," Caitlin chimed in.
Lillie hesitated but eventually swallowed her words, not wanting to risk being taken back home by her mother for speaking out of turn.
Sabrina stood off to the side, clearly uninterested in the matter at hand.
Serena, confused, asked, "What are you all talking about?"
Lillie, catching Carl's signal, proceeded to explain everything to Serena, detailing the astonishing discovery of Garchomp's newly learned Outrage and the precious nature of the pond. As expected of the foundation heiress, her analysis was spot-on.
"Oh my, I've stumbled upon such an important secret!" Serena said, covering her mouth in surprise, feeling a surge of emotion. The fact Carl was willing to share such a secret indicated his deep trust in her.
Caitlin remarked with a hint of regret, "Too bad I specialize in Psychic types. This dragon pond doesn't really help me."
"Not necessarily," Carl replied with a mysterious smile.
Caitlin's eyes lit up. "Does the pond benefit Psychic types too?"
"The pond is for Dragon-types only, which is why it's called Dragon's Pond," Carl explained. "However, there is indeed a place here that can aid Psychic Pokémon."
"Really?" The girls were all surprised.
Sabrina suddenly realized, "Is it that special psychic field?"
"Exactly," Carl nodded, smiling. "That field not only healed your mother's wounds but also accelerates the learning process for Psychic Pokémon."
These were details he didn't mind sharing. With Sabrina and Caitlin's skills, they'd eventually figure it out. Better to be upfront and honest. Of course, the more pivotal secrets would be reserved for when their relationship deepened.
Upon hearing his response, Caitlin and Sabrina gasped in surprise, their faces lighting up with joy. Just knowing about the psychic field made them feel living here was worth every moment.
"Your place has a real sense of style," Caitlin genuinely admired.
Carl nearly rolled his eyes. Did anything related to psychic abilities automatically count as tasteful?
Cynthia's eyes flickered with envy. Who wouldn't be tempted by a place that could quickly enhance a Pokémon's abilities? She turned to Carl and suggested, "Since Garchomp helped activate the pond's effects, you wouldn't mind if I borrowed it occasionally, would you?"
"If we're calculating like that, I can only give you a month's usage," Carl replied with a smile.
"Why?"
"Because Garchomp's activation effect lasts only a month."
"I see." Cynthia laughed, then proposed, "Then we should establish a long-term collaboration. I could come every month to help reactivate it."
"You've got quite the imagination," Carl joked. "But that plan won't work."
"Why not?"
"Dragons below legendary status can only activate it once every three months."
"There's such a limitation?" Cynthia was taken aback.
"Good things always come with limits," Carl said, crossing his arms with a hint of pride. "If you have a second Dragon-type Pokémon, we might consider extending your access."
"Well, I'd rather choose a lifetime subscription," Cynthia laughed heartily.
She understood Carl's point—if it was a transaction, then it had to follow the rules. But she chose to approach this as a friend.
"You're always welcome."
Who could refuse a friend like Cynthia? Borrowing the pond was one thing; other arrangements could also be discussed.
However, there was one condition: finding two more Dragon-types to rotate, or there would be a two-month gap. Carl pondered, "I wonder where I could find pseudo-legendary Dragons or strong Dragon-types. I'm not too picky."
The women present looked at him in disbelief. Could he really say such things?
Dragon-types were rare and had low breeding capabilities, but their talent and strength were top-tier, making them desired partners for trainers. Pseudo-legendary Dragons were believed to have the potential to break limits and reach legendary status.
Whenever a pseudo-legendary Dragon appeared, it stirred excitement and became a target for all. Yet, from Carl's tone, it seemed as if these rare creatures were abundant.
"If Lance heard you, he'd be furious," Cynthia said, unable to hold back her laughter.
Even the usually composed Caitlin couldn't help but chuckle. "Indeed."
Sabrina and the others were puzzled, not understanding what was so funny.
Seeing their confusion, Cynthia explained, "Do you know what lineup Lance used at the World Championship three years ago?"
Sabrina shook her head—she was not very interested in such events. Serena was also unsure, as she had only recently become a trainer and was more focused on riding and cooking, with her attention on performance.
However, Lillie raised her hand to answer, "I know! It was two Dragonites, a Charizard, a Gyarados, an Aerodactyl, and a Kingdra."