Chapter 381: Team Rocket’s Second-in-Command! [381]
When Luo Yuan heard the Silph president propose resolving the rivalry with Devon Corporation through a Pokémon battle, he almost thought he had walked into the wrong story.
The idea seemed utterly absurd.
While Pokémon training was the world's mainstream profession, using battles to settle corporate disputes was an entirely different matter. This wasn't some roadside skirmish between trainers over a few hundred Pokédollars—this was high-stakes business.
Silph's president shared Luo Yuan's incredulity.
"To be honest, I thought it was ridiculous when Devon proposed it," the president admitted.
"Still, it tells us something," Luo Yuan mused, rubbing his chin. "Devon must be under significant pressure themselves."
Devon Corporation was simultaneously fending off scrutiny from the Pokémon Association while trying to thwart Silph's expansion. It made sense they were desperate enough to propose something so unconventional.
"I agree, but their interference has been extremely effective. Our expansion plans in Hoenn have completely stalled."
"If they suggested a battle, who's representing Devon? Don't tell me it's Steven Stone," Luo Yuan asked.
The president hesitated briefly before nodding.
"Well, that's not great," Luo Yuan muttered.