"Indeed, in any world, social classes always exist."
"Not only in regard to the research and development of abilities, but also when it comes to rare items for Pokémon, and even some special methods of evolution."
"It's very likely that those great powers already hold dominion over part of that knowledge. Perhaps only by truly entering that social class can one discover the true face of this world."
At this point, Ethan Black couldn't help but sigh lightly, feeling somewhat thoughtful.
However, as someone who had crossed into this world, he carried a vast amount of knowledge about Pokémon in his mind, and that was precisely what gave him the confidence to attempt entering that social class.
"Since abilities have been revealed, perhaps I can take this opportunity to gain greater benefits."
"For example, the hidden abilities of some Pokémon are an excellent research topic. If I am the first to present the concept of hidden abilities and also organize and publish information about them..."
Ethan Black's eyes narrowed slightly; a very lucrative idea suddenly came to him.
In fact, he had already been using the knowledge in his mind to gain benefits for quite some time. For instance, the two articles published by Alex Baxter had already given him a rather considerable reward.
But regarding special evolutions of Pokémon and the subject of abilities, until now he hadn't dared to reveal anything.
However, now that Professor Harris had mentioned abilities, perhaps this was the right moment. And furthermore, he just so happened to have the perfect subject in front of him.
That subject was none other than the Overcoat ability possessed by Shellder!
And on top of that, he had already devised a very good story to justify how he had discovered Shellder's Overcoat ability.
He only needed to say that he had participated in rescue operations in disaster-stricken areas, and how, by accident, he had discovered this ability. That way, he could perfectly cover up the true origin of the discovery.
Moreover, Rachel Blake had also been present at that time, so she could testify on his behalf.
Thinking of this, Ethan Black turned his gaze toward Professor Harris. After hesitating for a moment, he finally decided to tell him about this discovery first.
This professor had given him too much support throughout his growth. Since he had decided to make Overcoat public, the right thing to do was to inform Professor Harris first.
After all, the Overcoat ability was related to sandstorm weather, and that might help Professor Harris with his research on that very phenomenon.
Besides, Ethan Black also harbored a small selfish intention: if Professor Harris knew about Shellder's ability, surely he would treat it with more care.
That way, Shellder could enjoy good food and lodging under Professor Harris's care, which would greatly reduce Ethan Black's burden as a low-class trainer.
And not to forget, Professor Harris himself was an extremely powerful trainer. The fact that Sandslash and Cacturne had reached their current level of strength was largely thanks to his teaching.
Therefore, telling Professor Harris that Shellder possessed the Overcoat ability brought nothing but advantages.
Thinking of this, Ethan Black quickly pulled out Shellder's Poké Ball and, after a moment of hesitation, said: "Professor Harris, regarding what you mentioned about abilities, there's a discovery I'd like to share with you."
"A discovery?"
Professor Harris was slightly surprised to hear this.
"Yes. This time, while I was out, I captured a very interesting little friend."
"It possesses a kind of mysterious power that can withstand the effect of Sandstorm weather. Though I don't know if it's the ability you spoke of."
As he spoke, Ethan Black released Shellder from its Poké Ball, and its figure slowly appeared in the room.
"A mysterious power that can withstand sandstorms?!"
Hearing this, Professor Harris's eyes instantly lit up.
"Exactly. Professor Harris, have Hippopotas use its Sand Stream ability, and I'll show you how Shellder resists it."
At Ethan Black's suggestion, Professor Harris immediately had Hippopotas activate its Sand Stream ability, once again generating a sandstorm in the area.
When the sandstorm began raging, Shellder's Overcoat ability suddenly activated, releasing a mysterious energy that completely blocked the sand from touching its body's surface.
"This...!"
"It really resisted the sandstorm's damage!"
Seeing Overcoat in action, Professor Harris's eyes widened, and he quickly became ecstatic.
"This is truly fascinating!"
Excited, Professor Harris licked his lips, rushed into the lab, and brought out a large number of research instruments.
Ethan Black hurried to help him, and after much effort, they finally managed to prepare all the necessary equipment.
"It can perfectly resist the damage of a sandstorm!"
"This is truly amazing. Ethan, you're my lucky charm! If we can unravel the mystery of this power, we could make a great breakthrough in the study of sandstorms."
Enthusiastically, Professor Harris operated his instruments while carefully observing the energy changes in the field.
Ethan Black smiled faintly at the sight and turned his gaze toward Hippopotas, beginning to observe it intently.
Ever since he had planned to form a team specialized in sandstorms, he had already thoroughly researched both Hippowdon and Tyranitar.
Due to Tyranitar's rarity, from the very beginning he had focused his attention on Hippowdon, thinking it wouldn't be too difficult to capture.
But now, after Professor Harris's explanation, he realized that because of the League's control over disaster-beast Pokémon, obtaining a Hippopotas had become much more difficult. Perhaps even impossible in the future, which gave him quite the headache.
According to Professor Harris, this Hippopotas's Sand Stream ability was already quite developed. And under its constant activation, the sandstorm weather could be maintained continuously, unlike in the games, where it only lasted for five turns.
In this regard, although Sandslash could create sandstorms, its move wasn't lasting, so it could only act as temporary support and not as the core of a weather team.
"I don't know what will happen to this Hippopotas after Professor Harris finishes his experiments."
"If the League decides to reclaim it, then there will be nothing I can do."
"But if Professor Harris manages to keep it... could I convince him to give it to me?"
Ethan Black stared at the Hippopotas before him, while an idea began to take shape in his mind.
If Professor Harris managed to hold on to Hippopotas, maybe he could trade him the method of Rhydon's evolution in exchange.
After all, if Professor Harris discovered that Rhydon could evolve even further, it wouldn't be far-fetched for him to accept giving Ethan Black that Hippopotas.
In that case, with Hippopotas on his team, his sandstorm-centered lineup would finally be complete!
(End of chapter)