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When a young mayor, wearing gold-rimmed glasses and exuding an air of politeness, arrived at the shrine, Kai recounted the story to him.
The mayor listened attentively, flipping through the manga, then lifted his head slightly. His glasses reflected a glint of light, revealing his sharp interest.
As a mayor elected by the local business community, he had a keen eye for spotting lucrative opportunities.
Maiden Peak, known for its legendary tale of the Maiden, attracted tourists during specific times of the year.
However, aside from that, it lacked unique features. Nearby attractions such as the renowned Celadon City and the bustling Vermilion Harbor overshadowed it, leaving Maiden Peak relatively unnoticed.
"If this manga gains popularity, it could attract more young people to this area," the mayor mused. "We could host stage plays, otaku culture events, comic exhibitions, and sell themed merchandise just like the major cities. This would surely boost tourism and make this town stand out."
"I heard you're planning to the manga to the shrine?"
"That's right," Kai nodded. While he had spent considerable time and effort on the manga, he had never intended to profit from it.
To Kai's surprise, the mayor offered a different perspective. "Creating the story and artwork must have been no small feat. I'd like to purchase the copyright from you. What do you think?"
"Huh? Purchase it?" Kai was taken aback. "But this manga is adapted from the local legend of the Maiden. Do I even own the rights? Besides, it's uncertain if it'll become popular."
The mayor smiled confidently. "I have my ways to manage those matters. With the full support of Maiden Peak, I believe a little promotion can yield substantial results."
Kai understood the mayor's intent: buying the rights at a low price now would prevent disputes and complications if the manga became a success later.
However, the offered sum felt like a windfall to Kai, who was struggling financially.
To demonstrate sincerity, the mayor offered 20,000($) and transferred the amount immediately.
Kai's dwindling savings suddenly surged, giving him a sense of financial relief.
After signing the agreement, Kai left the shrine and promptly transferred 10,000($) to Chloe, asking her to send it to her mother.
Shortly after, Professor Cerise's wife, Talia, called. At first, she refused to accept the money, but Kai eventually convinced her.
With this, the matter of Maiden Peak finally came to a close.
As the manga began circulating, Haunter no longer had to worry about the legend being forgotten.
Freed from that burden, he could now travel wholeheartedly with Kai!
The Outskirts of Celadon City
Dressed in a Gengar-themed mask and a black cloak, Kai approached a heavily guarded temporary camp.
The stationed officers, noticing his suspicious attire, immediately drew their weapons and surrounded him.
Kai spoke calmly. "Looker called me. Please let him know I'm here."
The officers hesitated but relayed the message. Shortly after, Looker emerged, looking slightly fatigued.
"Why are you wearing that mask again? Take it off!"
Kai shook his head. "No. I learned my lesson with Team Rocket last time. From now on, it's safer to stay masked during operations like these."
Looker chuckled helplessly. "You're already on their radar. A mask won't change that. But suit yourself. Come in."
Inside the camp, Kai observed SWAT officers armed to the teeth, police Growlithe teams patrolling diligently, and rows of armoured vehicles and helicopters on standby.
"With this level of firepower, you're going all out," Kai remarked.
Looker nodded. "We've pinpointed Team Rocket's hideout. Apart from the underground Game Corner tunnels, we uncovered another exit outside the city."
Noticing Looker's laboured breathing, Kai asked, "How's your injury?"
"Nothing serious," Looker replied with a wave. "The doctors insisted on rest, but this situation is urgent. Otherwise, they'd never have let me out of the hospital."
Kai couldn't help but marvel at the advanced healthcare in the Pokémon world.
Humans and Pokémon alike could recover remarkably quickly with proper treatment from a Pokémon Center.
"And yet you're still here?" Kai asked sceptically. "Interpol doesn't rely on just you, right?"
"Of course not," Looker said, gesturing around. "These officers are from HQ, and even my boss is here, leading from the frontlines."
Before Kai could respond, a familiar figure caught his eye.
A tall woman with sleek black hair, dressed in a sharp outfit, stood out among the crowd. Her piercing gaze fixed on Kai.
Kai hadn't seen her in a while and didn't expect her to join this operation.
"Last time, you said we'd meet again soon," Kai said, approaching her. "I didn't think it'd be this quick!"
Sabrina's eyes seemed to pierce through Kai's mask, meeting him directly.
"I had a feeling you'd come," she said. "So I waited. Looks like I was right."
Looker took a step back, startled.
'What's going on here?'
The aloof, psychic-powered Sabrina, known for her cold demeanour, was speaking warmly to someone. Looker could hardly believe it.
"By the way," Kai said, rummaging through his bag, "I brought this for you."
He handed Sabrina a gift box containing perfume.
"It's a token of thanks for your help last time. Please, take it."
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