In Theo's envisioned battle strategies for his Pokémon, Tyrantrum's primary core tactic would revolve around Sandstorm combined with Dragon Dance.
By using Sandstorm as cover and setting up Stealth Rock to create obstacles and pressure, he could stall for time, allowing Tyrantrum to continuously stack Dragon Dance boosts.
In this way, Tyrantrum's Attack and Speed would keep increasing, eventually reaching the point where it could overwhelm opponents purely through its formidable physical prowess and crush them head on.
As for the future Metagross, Theo planned a strategy centered on Magnet Rise and Agility, supplemented by precise psychic control for movement, turning, and acceleration. The goal was to recreate the high speed projectile mode it once had in its Beldum form, like a small steel cannonball tearing through the battlefield.
Metagross's Magnet Rise would not only allow it to levitate, but also grant immunity to Ground type moves that would otherwise threaten it. Combined with its incomparably hard steel body and excellent close combat capabilities, this would shape it into a true steel behemoth that possessed high speed, high attack, and high defense all at once.
Finally, for Milotic, Theo's future tactical arrangement was to have her hold a Flame Orb and deliberately trigger the burned status condition.
With her ability Marvel Scale activated, her physical defense would increase significantly.
At the same time, while in a burned state, Milotic could sense the heat of the Flame Orb and channel that heat into her Scald attacks, making it easier to inflict burns on opponents and create a form of double pressure.
Most importantly, Milotic was a special attacker by nature and also possessed moves like Aqua Ring and Life Dew, allowing her to continuously recover her condition during battle. The burn status would not significantly hinder her offensive output.
In such a scenario, if Milotic's opponent specialized in close range combat, she would become their worst nightmare.
After organizing the treasures Larvesta had brought out, Theo recalled Milotic, Tyrantrum, and Larvesta into their Poké Balls one by one, leaving only Metang floating beside him.
This expedition to Mt. Chimney had more than exceeded expectations.
Not only had he witnessed the magnificent lava lake at the summit, he had also unexpectedly captured Larvesta. The rewards far surpassed what he had anticipated, so there was no need to linger any longer.
"Let's go, Metang. We are heading down the mountain."
Theo brushed the volcanic ash off his clothes and began descending along the winding mountain path.
Metang used its telekinesis to gently support his backpack, lightening his burden considerably. Its red eyes scanned the surroundings with vigilance, always alert for any wild Pokémon that might suddenly leap out.
The glow of the setting sun cast a golden red sheen over the volcano as Theo made his way downward with Metang's assistance.
The descent proved easier than the climb up. From time to time, Metang would give him a slight lift with its psychic power, helping him avoid steep slopes and loose rocks, making the journey smoother.
As the altitude gradually decreased, the sharp scent of sulfur in the air slowly faded, replaced by a hint of warm moisture.
The vegetation at the mountain's base also transitioned from drought resistant shrubs to broad leaf plants suited to a warm climate, the greenery growing increasingly lush.
After more than an hour, a cluster of neatly arranged houses appeared ahead. Most of their rooftops were covered with dark red tiles, echoing the color of the volcanic rocks of Mt. Chimney.
Wisps of cooking smoke rose into the twilight sky, mingling with the faint steam of hot springs.
This was the destination of his journey.
Lavaridge Town.
By coincidence, Theo encountered a tourist group on the road at the mountain's base that was also heading to Lavaridge Town.
He recalled Metang and joined them naturally, entering the small town at the foot of the volcano under the enthusiastic guidance of their tour guide.
Along the way, the guide, holding a loudspeaker, began telling everyone the story of Lavaridge Town.
This small town nestled at the foot of the volcano had once been quite unremarkable.
Because it lay so close to Mt. Chimney, the climate was hot year round. Aside from trainers who specifically came to challenge the Fire type Gym, few people went out of their way to visit.
Everything changed after Flannery's grandfather, the former Elite Four member Mr. Moore, retired and returned to his hometown.
While carefully mentoring his granddaughter Flannery to inherit the Lavaridge Gym, he also worked tirelessly to develop the town.
The most eye catching project was the development of its hot springs.
Thanks to its location at the base of a volcano, the hot spring waters were rich in volcanic minerals.
Not only could these springs instantly relieve the fatigue of travel, but long term soaking was said to improve skin quality, leaving it smooth and supple.
Because of this major advantage, many young women were drawn here to experience the baths.
Gradually, the town's economy flourished.
Inns, restaurants, and specialty shops opened one after another. The once quiet town had now become increasingly lively.
Even better, over the past two years, with the assistance of Mr. Moore's ace Pokémon Ninetales, many Vulpix had been attracted to the forests surrounding the town.
As long as visitors prepared Pokémon treats or similar snacks, they could get up close and gently stroke the soft orange red fur of these Vulpix.
The little fox Pokémon were clever, lively, and fond of acting cute.
Whenever someone fed them, they would brush their fluffy tails against the person's palm and occasionally tilt their heads to reveal innocent expressions. Very few people could resist such an adorable assault.
As a result, Lavaridge Town's reputation grew larger and larger, and a steady stream of tourists arrived every day.
Because of this, the number of Vulpix remaining on Mt. Chimney had gradually decreased.
After all, the Vulpix staying near Lavaridge Town no longer needed to forage laboriously in the mountains.
They simply had to act cute and wag their tails to receive endless snacks, all while enjoying the protection of Ninetales. Their lives were extremely comfortable.
However, Theo and the tour group did not encounter any Vulpix along the way.
The guide smiled and explained, "The Vulpix usually return to the deeper parts of the forest after four in the afternoon to rest and play. They only come out again the next morning to interact with visitors."
"Occasionally, a particularly greedy Vulpix might sneak out, but it seems we are not lucky enough to see one today."
She added, "If anyone wants to capture a Vulpix near Lavaridge Town, it is possible. But you must first register at the Pokémon Center and pass certain evaluations. Only after confirming that the Vulpix genuinely wishes to go with you can you complete the necessary procedures."
By the time Theo arrived in Lavaridge Town, dusk was approaching. There were still a few scattered tourists strolling along the streets.
He found a hotel that looked clean and tidy and quickly completed the check in process.
After entering his room, the first thing he did was release Larvesta and Metang.
Metang floated over to the window and looked down at the street below. Larvesta, meanwhile, was filled with curiosity, examining everything it had never seen before, looking here and touching there.
Once he had settled in, Theo took out his phone and decided to start a video call with Steven to update him on his journey.
After all, Steven was his angel investor.
Beldum had successfully evolved into Metang, and he had unexpectedly captured Larvesta. With so many happy developments, he needed someone to share the news with.
The call connected quickly. On the other side of the screen, Steven also appeared to be resting in a hotel room.
As soon as the video call connected, Steven's gaze was immediately drawn to the Metang floating beside Theo.
"I just came down from Mt. Chimney and arrived in Lavaridge Town," Theo said with a smile as he turned the camera toward Metang. "Mr. Steven, take a look at this."
(End of Chapter)