John instructed Gardevoir to heal the Haxorus. It was clear that no Pokemon of Haxorus' strength could endure two powerful Fairy-type moves, especially given its naturally low defenses and tendency toward an all-out attack strategy.
As the healing light from Life Dew worked its magic, Haxorus rose slowly, showing no signs of hostility. Instead, it turned, nudging the young, shiny Axew forward toward John. Its gesture was clear—it had decided to entrust its child to this trainer, believing in his strength and potential to raise Axew into a mighty warrior.
John knelt down, presenting a shimmering golden Pokéblock in his hand to the hesitant Axew. The sweet, fruity aroma wafted through the air, capturing the attention of every Pokémon in the cave. Even those who had been indifferent now watched eagerly, their noses twitching as they tried to resist drooling.
Axew stared at the Pokéblock, its wide eyes betraying its desire, but it hesitated, casting wary glances at John. This human had just defeated its mother—surely he couldn't be trusted, right? But before it could retreat further, a heavy claw landed on its head. Its mother gave it a firm, encouraging push, as if to say, Eat it, you fool!
With its mother's approval, Axew darted forward, eagerly biting into the Pokéblock. The moment the treat hit its tongue, its eyes sparkled with pure delight, and a blissful squeal escaped its lips. The other Pokémon looked on enviously, their longing gazes betraying how badly they, too, wanted a taste.
Seeing the growing excitement, John chuckled. He took out a box of the same golden Pokéblocks, instructing Gardevoir to distribute them using her psychic abilities. With precision, Gardevoir floated a Pokéblock to every Pokémon in the cavern. The delighted sounds of munching soon filled the air, and even the previously stoic Haxorus couldn't help but savor the rare treat.
"You always spoil them, don't you?" Daisy, standing to the side, watched the scene unfold. Her Goodra, unable to resist the allure, was savoring its share with an expression of utter bliss.
"It's not spoiling—it's investment," John replied with a sly grin. "Pokémon that are well-fed and happy fight better. Besides, I make these myself. It's practically free."
Daisy raised an eyebrow. "Free? How much would one of those cost if you sold it?"
John shrugged casually. "For friends? Let's say a box of 24 would run about $100,000. It's a steal, really."
Daisy's jaw dropped. "A hundred thousand?! That's daylight robbery!"
John smirked, unbothered. "Goodra doesn't seem to think so."
True to his words, Goodra was in a blissful daze, licking its lips as it begged Daisy for more. Defeated, she sighed and fished out her wallet. "Fine. Two boxes."
"Pleasure doing business with you," John said, handing over the goods. The glint of satisfaction in his eyes revealed the shrewd businessman lurking beneath his charming exterior.
With Axew now following him closely, John prepared to leave the cave. But before that, there was a formal ritual to complete—the blessing of the Dragon Kings. Every Pokémon raised in the Dragon's Nest needed their approval before embarking on its journey.
"Let's go meet the big three," John said, motioning for Axew and its mother to follow.
The group made their way to the heart of the island, where the legendary Dragonite, Goodra, and Garchomp clans resided. As they approached the center, John retrieved a large, ornate horn from his bag. He blew into it, the deep, resonating sound echoing across the island.
Within moments, the three Dragon Kings appeared.
The Dragonite King emerged first, its massive form gliding effortlessly over the water as it regarded John with a curious tilt of its head. Its intelligent eyes seemed to say, Haven't I seen you before?
Next came the Goodra King, slithering gracefully from the forest. Its gaze was more measured, but there was a flicker of recognition in its eyes. Finally, the Garchomp King arrived, its imposing figure casting a long shadow. It locked eyes with John, a faint glimmer of amusement on its face. Clearly, it remembered him.
The ritual began. John knelt, presenting Axew to the three kings. Axew's mother stood proudly behind it, her posture firm as she awaited the verdict. The three Dragon Kings exchanged glances, each evaluating Axew and John in turn. Finally, they nodded in unison.
The ritual was complete. With their blessing, Axew was officially John's partner.
John withdrew a pristine Premier Ball, holding it out for Axew. The little dragon hesitated for only a moment before touching the ball with its snout. With a flash of light, the ball sealed shut. Axew was now part of John's team.
Relieved, John pocketed the Premier Ball, ready to head back. "Alright, let's—"
Before he could finish, a massive shadow loomed over him.