Pokemon: A New Path

Chapter 438: The hidden trial of Ranch, unlocked

March 16, Alliance Calendar Year 200, Spring

After receiving the assignment from the Chief Champion, Miguel left Mesagoza and set off for Kosaji Town. However, upon arriving in the area, he found himself lost and unable to locate Naoki's Ranch.

At this moment, Miguel recalled a tip he had read in the strategy post on the campus forum:

"Naoki's Ranch is located in the outskirts, some distance from town. If you can't find it, ask the locals. The ranch is quite famous in the area."

Determined to complete his mission, Miguel flagged down a man driving a small truck. The man, dressed in a blue work uniform with a towel draped around his neck, leaned out the window with a friendly smile. His bald head gleamed under the sunlight as he asked, "Looking for something, young man?"

"Yes, sir. Could you tell me how to get to Naoki's Ranch?" Miguel asked politely.

"Oh, Naoki's Ranch? You're going the wrong way!" the man said with a hearty laugh. "The ranch is on the eastern side of town, but you've wandered off to the south!"

Pointing back toward the town, the man continued, "Head back to Kosaji Market and take the east road out of town. You'll see a small path leading into the countryside—follow it to the very end, and you'll find Naoki's Ranch."

"Thank you so much for your help, sir," Miguel replied with a respectful bow.

"Ah, it's nothing," the man said, waving off the thanks. "Plenty of folks like you come looking for Naoki's Ranch. It's quite the popular place these days."

Miguel, who had already started to turn away, paused at the man's words. Popular? He knew from the forum post that Naoki's Ranch was well-known, but hearing it firsthand sparked his curiosity.

"Excuse me," Miguel said, turning back. "It sounds like you know a lot about Naoki. Could you tell me more about him?"

The man's eyes lit up at the question. Clearly, he was more than happy to talk about the local legend.

"Naoki? Of course I know him! He's the most famous rancher in all of Kosaji!" the man said proudly. "He hasn't been here long—just over a year—but he's already transformed what was once a barren plot of land into a thriving ranch."

He leaned closer as if sharing a secret. "He even introduced the townsfolk to Calyrex. Thanks to Naoki, farmers here now receive blessings from the Calyrex, and every harvest since has been bountiful!"

The man's enthusiasm grew as he continued. "And you know about the forest fire from last year, right? Naoki and his Dragonite were the ones who put it out! They saved countless Pokémon from harm. The Paldea League even awarded him a medal for his bravery."

Miguel listened intently, his eyebrows rising with every new detail.

"That's not all!" the man exclaimed. "Naoki also founded Dragon Express, the delivery service. His milk from Gogoats and Miltanks is top-notch—people come from all over to buy it. Since he came to town, Kosaji has become a hotspot for tourists and trainers alike. This place used to be just a quiet fishing town, but now it's bustling with life!"

The man's face was alight with pride as he concluded, "Naoki is the best thing to ever happen to our town. He's our lucky star!"

Miguel stood there, processing everything he'd just heard. The man's words painted Naoki as a larger-than-life figure, someone who was not only a skilled Pokémon trainer but also a community hero.

Could all of this really be true? If so, what kind of extraordinary person was Naoki?

Miguel bid farewell to the kind local man and set off for Naoki's Ranch. Eager to reach the ranch as quickly as possible, he retrieved a Poké Ball from his belt.

"Come on out, Farigiraf!" he called.

In a flash of light, a tall Pokémon with a long neck, resembling a giraffe with a mysterious mask-like marking on its head, materialized. It stood over three meters tall, towering above the countryside road.

Miguel quickly mounted the Pokémon, gripping its neck lightly for balance. "Let's go!" he urged, and Farigiraf took off, galloping swiftly toward the destination.

As they neared the end of the road, a sprawling ranch came into view.

From a distance, Miguel could see that a fierce battle was underway. Above the ranch, dark storm clouds gathered ominously. Powerful winds howled, and heavy rain lashed down in torrents. Within the tempest, lightning crackled, illuminating the scene with flashes of blinding yellow.

Miguel could feel the intensity of the battle even from afar. The storm was oppressive, the electric energy palpable.

"This… This is terrifying!" he muttered, his voice barely audible over the distant roar of thunder. "So this is the power of a real champion-level trainer?"

Although Miguel had recently ascended to the rank of champion-level trainer within the Paldea League, he knew there was a stark difference between his level and that of a true champion like Geeta. Champion-level trainers like himself were still considered a step below the elite.

"Farigiraf, pick up the pace!" Miguel commanded, urging his Pokémon to accelerate.

With a burst of speed, Farigiraf carried Miguel straight to the ranch.

When they arrived, Miguel was greeted by the sight of a battle reaching its climax.

A young woman stood in the middle of the field, commanding her Meowscarada against a powerful Dragonite. On the opposite side of the battlefield stood a calm and composed man. His steady demeanor exuded confidence and control.

"That must be Naoki," Miguel murmured to himself.

The storm that engulfed the battlefield was relentless. The swirling winds and rain were amplified by Flying-type energy, creating a hurricane-like vortex. Within the chaos, Naoki's Dragonite unleashed its final attack. The storm energy enveloped Meowscarada, forcing the already weakened Pokémon to collapse.

As the battle concluded, the storm began to subside. The skies slowly cleared, leaving the battlefield drenched but calm.

Indeedee approached with a bottle of fresh Milk. She gently fed the milk to Meowscarada, and its injuries began to heal almost instantly.

"I'm afraid you've failed the Storm Trial," Naoki said, addressing the young woman with a kind but firm tone.

The woman nodded, still dazed from the intensity of the battle. "So… strong," she murmured, clearly overwhelmed.

It was at that moment that Miguel recognized the trainer. His eyes widened in surprise. "Nina? What are you doing here?"

The young woman, now identified as Nina, turned at the sound of Miguel's voice. She didn't seem startled to see him and replied casually, "Oh, Miguel. I happened to be in Kosaji Town, so I decided to challenge the trials. Are you here for the same reason?"

Miguel nodded, his eyes darting to Meowscarada. Judging by its condition, it was clear that Nina hadn't been successful.

Naoki observed the exchange with interest. "It seems you two know each other," he remarked with a curious smile. "Colleagues from the Paldea League, perhaps?"

Nina, unfazed by her earlier defeat, turned back to Naoki. She checked Meowscarada's condition before raising her hand and asking, "Mr. Naoki, can I try a different trial?"

"Of course," Naoki replied warmly. "Which one would you like to attempt?"

Nina glanced around the ranch. Pokémon of all shapes and sizes were gathered near the battle site, some even more formidable-looking than the Dragonite, Pawmot, or Gogoat from the previous trials.

She pondered for a moment before speaking. "By the way, Mr. Naoki, are the trials limited to the Green Grass Trial, Storm Trial, Lightning Trial, and Metronome Trial?"

Naoki could tell what Nina was thinking with just one glance.

He smiled slightly, his tone mysterious. "There's more to it than that. In addition to the four main trials, the ranch also features some hidden trials. However, only those who successfully pass one of the main trials will be eligible to challenge them."

For example, the Ancient DoubleTrial featuring Koraidon and Flutter Mane...

And for those still unsatisfied, Naoki could call upon Calyrex and Giratina to showcase the power of true legends.

Nina's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Hidden trials?!"

Beside her, Miguel was equally stunned.

Based on what he had read on the school forum, the current trials were already extraordinarily challenging. He couldn't imagine how much more difficult these hidden trials might be.

Naoki nodded. "That's right. However, you're not qualified to challenge them yet. To earn that right, you'll need to defeat the Pokémon in the main trials first."

Standing behind Naoki were his Pokémon: Dragonite, Pawmot, and Gogoat. They watched the two challengers with keen interest, their presence alone emanating an aura of strength.

Unable to contain her curiosity, Nina pleaded, "Mr. Naoki, could you at least let us take a peek? Please?"

But Naoki shook his head, remaining firm. "No. If you want to know, you'll have to earn it by completing a trial."

Hearing this, Miguel's determination flared. He clenched his fists, his mind racing.

"Nina, if you're not going to challenge a trial, let me take my turn!" he exclaimed eagerly.

Nina gave him a pointed look. "You're so impatient, Miguel. Manners, please."

Though she had originally planned to reattempt the Green Grass Trial, her Meowscarada had just endured an intense battle and needed time to rest and recover. Reluctantly, Nina stepped aside, yielding her spot.

Miguel stepped forward, his resolve hardening as he faced Naoki. He glanced at the ranch owner and thought about the rumors: Naoki was said to be of the same generation as Chief Champion Geeta. If the Chief trusted Naoki to train champion-level trainers, it must be because of his unparalleled experience and strength.

"Mr. Naoki, please guide me!" Miguel said, his tone earnest and respectful.

Naoki nodded, his expression calm. "Do you need an introduction to the trials?"

Miguel shook his head. "No, thank you. I've done my re

Miguel, however, had something else on his mind. Turning to Naoki, he asked eagerly, "Mr. Naoki, can you tell me what the hidden trial of the ranch is now?"

Naoki blinked, slightly surprised, before chuckling softly. "You really are persistent. Very well. Since you've passed the Green Grass Trial, you're qualified to know."

He turned toward Koraidon, who stepped forward with a powerful aura radiating from its muscular frame.

"This is Koraidon," Naoki said, gesturing toward the imposing Pokémon. "The next challenge is the , where you will face Koraidon in battle."

Miguel's excitement surged as he gazed at the Pokémon. Its sheer presence was awe-inspiring.

"But this trial has a twist," Naoki continued. "Unlike the previous challenges, this one allows you to team up with another trainer to form a doubles battle. Koraidon will also have a teammate, making it a 2v2 battle."

Naoki paused, letting the information sink in. "Of course, if you'd prefer, you can command two of your own Pokémon instead."

Miguel's eyes burned with determination. "I'll give it a try!"

"Alright."

Naoki smiled faintly but didn't elaborate further.

He returned to the battlefield, and Miguel once again sent out Ceruledge.

The battle officially began.

Ceruledge attempted to use its  to strike Koraidon, but before it could make a move, Koraidon had already closed the distance.

With a single swipe of its massive claws, Ceruledge was knocked out instantly.

Miguel: "?!"

"So… so strong!" Nina gasped, her voice trembling with disbelief.

This Pokémon was even more powerful than the likes of Gogoat and Pawmot!

At that moment, both Miguel and Nina fully understood why Naoki had insisted they weren't ready to challenge the hidden trials before completing the initial three trials.

Koraidon's strength was overwhelming—on an entirely different level.

"Mr. Naoki, is this the hidden trial of the ranch?" Nina asked, her voice shaky.

Naoki considered her question for a moment, then shook his head with a slight smile. "No, aside from Koraidon's Ancient Trial, there are several other hidden trials. But… let's discuss those after you defeat Koraidon!"

"Defeat Koraidon?!"

Miguel and Nina exchanged shocked glances. Did that mean there were even stronger Pokémon in the hidden trials?

Koraidon's power was already beyond comprehension. They didn't even want to imagine how formidable the other Pokémon could be.

The two trainers glanced around, searching for Pokémon that might surpass Koraidon in strength among the others present at the ranch.

Naoki noticed their reactions but didn't offer any explanation. Instead, he smiled and waved his hand.

Understanding the gesture, brother Indeedee turned and left. He soon returned, carrying three bottles of vibrant fruit wine.

"Take these!" Naoki said warmly. "This is your reward for passing the trial. As the second trainer to succeed, you've also earned two bonus bottles. Watching your battle was truly inspiring. Your wisdom and courage are admirable."

Miguel stared at the bottles of fruit wine, feeling both pride and gratitude.

Nina, however, caught onto something. "Wait," she said, surprised. "Second trainer? Does that mean someone else passed the trial before Miguel?"

Naoki nodded slightly. "Yes, there was another—an extraordinary trainer."

"Was it the Chief Champion?" Nina asked, her voice filled with awe.

In the Paldea region, the Chief Champion was regarded as the most powerful trainer.

Naoki chuckled and shook his head. "No, the Chief has been busy with her duties and hasn't had the time to challenge the trials."

Nina nodded, her surprise still evident.

Naoki then turned to Miguel and began explaining the unique properties of the fruit wine.

At first, both Miguel and Nina assumed the wine was just an ordinary refreshment.

But as Naoki described how the wine could enhance a Pokémon's resistance to status conditions and boost its overall vitality, their expressions shifted to astonishment.

"Really?" Miguel asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

"Of course," Naoki replied confidently. "This fruit wine is brewed using a secret family recipe, combining the essence of various berries. It improves a Pokémon's physical condition and helps them grow stronger."

"That's incredible!" Nina exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with envy as she looked at the bottles of wine.

She wished she could have some as well, but she hadn't passed the trial yet. Moreover, her team consisted mostly of Grass-type Pokémon, making it challenging to use the same strategies Miguel had employed.

Compared to Nina's visible frustration, Miguel remained calm and composed.

"Thank you very much, Mr. Naoki," Miguel said sincerely. "But this feels far too valuable. I can't accept it. Besides, the Chief Champion has already prepared a reward for me."

Naoki was momentarily surprised.

"This is a reward you've earned," Naoki insisted. "Every trainer who passes the trial receives it. Consider it my gift to the brave."

After a moment's hesitation, Miguel nodded and carefully accepted the fruit wine. "Thank you, Mr. Naoki!"

Naoki's reputation as a kind and honorable man was well-known throughout the town, and Miguel now understood why.

Not long after bidding farewell to Miguel and Nina, Naoki received a video call from Geeta, the Chief Champion.

"How did it go?" Geeta asked, her expression curious.

Naoki smiled warmly. "That trainer named Miguel is quite remarkable. Other than Leon, he's the only trainer to have passed the Green Grass Trial."

Naoki then recounted the events of the day, detailing Miguel's strategies and determination.

Upon hearing this, a peculiar gleam appeared in Geeta's eyes.

"In that case, this trainer seems to have excellent potential!"

"So, where's my King's Rock?" Naoki asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Don't worry," Geeta replied with a teasing smile. "I've asked Larry to handle it for you!"

Naoki sighed. "...Don't overwork him. When I saw him last time, he looked exhausted."

Geeta laughed softly. "Oh, Larry's been unusually energetic recently! I heard he's been ordering your ranch's magical goat milk regularly."

"And from what the sales team tells me, whenever Larry drinks your goat milk, his productivity triples!"

At that moment, Geeta seemed to remember something. "Oh, by the way, Naoki, I almost forgot—would you be interested in collaborating with me?"

Naoki froze, a bad feeling creeping in. "What kind of collaboration?"

Geeta grinned mischievously. "Why don't you sell your ranch's goat milk to the Paldea Alliance? We'll buy it at a premium price!"

Naoki: "…"

"Ahem, I think I'll have to pass on that." Naoki decisively declined. "Using external stimulants for a quick energy boost is fine occasionally, but relying on it too often isn't good for one's health."

Geeta tilted her head in confusion. "Huh? Harmful? Seeing how lively Larry is, I thought your goat milk was some sort of miracle drink—like coffee, but with zero side effects!"

Naoki nodded seriously. "The goat milk itself is perfectly safe, but people need to rest properly. If someone keeps pushing their limits while relying on it, they'll burn out, no matter how good the milk is."

"Huh, I see." Geeta sighed in disappointment. "Alright, I'll drop the idea if it's addictive in the long run."

"If there's nothing else, I'll hang up now," Naoki said, eager to avoid any further schemes. He didn't want to spend the rest of the call discussing potential ways to overwork employees.

But Geeta wasn't done yet. "Wait, one more thing!"

"What is it?" Naoki asked, his shoulders sagging.

"Do you get along with Iono?" Geeta asked curiously.

Naoki blinked. "Why do you ask? Did something happen?"

"No, not really," Geeta replied, shaking her head. "It just seems like you two are pretty close."

Geeta had a habit of keeping tabs on her gym leaders. Occasionally, she would check on what they were up to.

She had once watched one of Iono's livestreams out of curiosity and noticed the streamer casually promoting Naoki Ranch.

Naoki thought for a moment and then said, "Iono probably visits the ranch more often than the others."

Most gym leaders only visited once, but Iono had been there multiple times.

After a brief pause, Geeta asked, "Did Iono ever challenge any of your trials?"

Naoki thought about it and nodded. "Yes, she did."

Geeta's suspicions grew. Could it be that Iono was…?

Seeing Geeta's expression, Naoki tilted his head. "What's wrong?"

Geeta snapped back to reality and smiled. "Oh, nothing! Anyway, I'll leave the next challenger to you. I've got some things to take care of!"

After the call ended, Geeta's curiosity deepened.

She decided to test Iono's attitude the next time they spoke.

If her hunch was correct, she wouldn't mind playing matchmaker.

If Naoki and Iono ended up together, it would mean Naoki staying in Paldea permanently. Geeta wouldn't have to worry about him moving to another region.

And when they eventually got married, Geeta could attend and serve as a witness.

At that moment, Geeta's imagination ran wild.

A person as talented as Naoki would undoubtedly have equally talented children—future champions of the Paldea region!

Three Days Later – Paldea Alliance Headquarters

Miguel walked into the towering building, dressed sharply in a suit.

Three days ago, he had reported his success in passing Naoki's trial to Geeta.

As promised, she had rewarded him generously.

He received a substantial bonus and a promotion to the Paldea Alliance Sales Department.

Miguel felt incredibly honored and full of excitement for his new role.

Entering the office, Miguel spotted a familiar and prominent figure.

It was none other than Larry, the leader of the Medali Gym and a master of Normal/ Flying-types!

Miguel's heart soared. Was he about to become colleagues with such a renowned trainer?

He quickly approached and greeted Larry enthusiastically.

"Good morning, Mr. Larry! I'm Miguel, the new recruit for the sales department. I look forward to working with you!"

Larry: "…"

The older trainer looked at Miguel, his face betraying an undeniable weariness.

Ah, the energy of youth—how he missed it.

Larry nodded briefly. "Welcome. I've got something to handle right now. Let's talk another time."

"Of course, Mr. Larry!" Miguel replied quickly, stepping aside to let his senior pass.

He watched Larry walk away, feeling a mix of admiration and excitement.