Chapter 30: Chapter 30: Develop A Coach
"Mr. Grave, could you add me on WeChat?"
Ethan glanced at Mr. Peele, who hesitated briefly before continuing, "If there's ever an opportunity or availability in the future, you could let me know directly."
The murmurs around them grew louder as other residents caught wind of the request.
"Me too!" someone chimed in. "Could I get your contact information as well?"
Ethan sighed inwardly. It was clear what was happening. These weren't just friendly neighbors, they recognized the value of being connected to someone on the rise. Whether for genuine interest or to boast about their association, everyone now wanted to be on his radar.
"Alright, Mr. Peele," Ethan said with a polite smile. "I'll add you. Feel free to share my contact with the others later, I've got some errands to run, so I can't stay to chat too long."
He pulled up his WeChat QR code, while Mr. Peele eagerly scanned it, visibly pleased. As Ethan waved goodbye and drove off, the group behind him buzzed with excitement.
"It seems fame changes everything," Ethan mused as he navigated the streets. "Not long ago, I was just another face in this villa community. Now, I feel like I can't step outside without drawing attention."
Still, he couldn't deny the potential advantages of these connections. Wealthy and influential residents could prove useful allies in the future.
---
By the afternoon, Ethan was back at the Pokémon Biotechnology lab, observing the first batch of Pichus as they played. The sight of the tiny creatures wagging their tails and wobbling around warmed his heart.
"They're too young for training," Ethan murmured, chuckling as one Pichu tripped over its own feet.
Timmy, however, was in full "big boss" mode. Zipping around the room, he proudly demonstrated his latest skill: Iron Tail.
"Pika!" Timmy cried, swinging his glowing tail into a stone target.
Smash! The stone shattered into fragments.
The Pichus froze, their wide eyes reflecting a mix of awe and confusion. Some cheered, hopping excitedly, while others inspected their tails, mimicking Timmy's movements.
When their attempts failed, their squeaky cries of disappointment filled the room.
---
"What… did Timmy just do?"
James and the other lab staff stood in stunned silence, watching Pikachu's display of strength.
"It's a new skill he learned during training this morning," Ethan explained, ruffling Timmy's head affectionately. "He couldn't wait to show off."
"Training?" James asked incredulously. "I know trainers worldwide are experimenting with techniques, but Timmy's progress seems… extraordinary."
Ethan shrugged casually. "It's all about consistency. Pokémon have natural talents, but active training accelerates their development."
He knelt down to comfort the disheartened Pichus, patting their tiny heads. "Don't be discouraged. You might not know Iron Tail yet, but with practice, you'll get there."
The little ones perked up at his reassurance, eagerly wagging their tails and mimicking Timmy once again.
Watching their determination, an idea sparked in Ethan's mind. If Timmy could inspire and guide the Pichus through example, perhaps a structured peer training system could be implemented.
The concept was simple: animals often learned behaviors by observing and mimicking their elders. Why not apply the same principle to Pokémon? Training a Pichu as a "mentor" could be a scalable solution to enhance their learning curve.
---
As Ethan mulled over his new idea, his phone buzzed. The screen displayed "Manager Henry" from XX Bank.
"Mr. Grave, congratulations!" Manager Henry's enthusiastic voice greeted him. "We've approved an upper limit of 500 million dollars for your loan, with the most favorable repayment terms."
Ethan's eyebrows lifted in surprise. While he had expected progress after Secretary Elijah's visit, this amount exceeded his expectations.
"500 million?" Ethan repeated, already calculating how this funding could propel the company forward.
"Yes," Manager Henry continued. "I'll send over a list of required documents for processing. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me."
"Understood," Ethan replied. "I'll review them and head over shortly."
---
After ending the call, Ethan gathered the lab team to share the news.
"The bank just approved us a loan," he began, his tone casual.
James, ever curious, asked, "How much?"
Ethan held up five fingers. "500 million."
The lab erupted in gasps and cheers.
"500 million! Mr. Grave, that's freaking incredible!"
Ethan smiled, letting their excitement settle before continuing. "With this loan, we'll finally be able to expand the lab. And everyone's getting at least a 50% raise."
The announcement was met with a wave of applause and laughter.
"You all deserve it," Ethan said warmly. "Once the new lab is operational, James, you'll take full charge. The rest of you will also see promotions, I want this team to be the strongest, most loyal in the industry."
The atmosphere buzzed with energy, and Ethan could see the renewed determination in their eyes. He couldn't help but feel proud.
...
Rizz me up on my Patreon for my sexy benefits that I'm sure your dry-ass lips can't resist. Become my Ghost if I might add. ;)
patreon.com/chibi_mon_mon