Devon Corporation Headquarters
"President, we've identified the stolen data. Fortunately, it's not critical, nor does it pertain to any of our ongoing research."
Upon hearing this, President Stone exhaled deeply, relief evident in his expression. If it had been vital information, its theft could have dealt a severe blow to Devon Corporation. But since it wasn't crucial, the damage was minimal.
"That's a relief," he said, before turning toward Aoki. "Aoki, I truly appreciate what you did today. Thanks to you, we retrieved our materials."
"It was nothing," Aoki replied calmly.
Observing Aoki's composed demeanor, President Stone became even more convinced of his maturity and capability. In his experience, those who remained level-headed under pressure often turned out to be exceptional individuals. Devon Corporation needed to maintain good relations with such talents.
"Aoki, would you like to visit my private collection? There are plenty of rare items inside, and you're free to choose a few as a reward."
Aoki's mind stirred at the offer. Given Devon Corporation's vast resources, the collection was bound to contain some invaluable treasures.
"In that case, I'll graciously accept," he responded with a polite nod.
"No need to be so formal—come along."
President Stone led Aoki through multiple layers of security until they reached a heavily fortified vault. The sheer number of protective measures in place indicated just how valuable the contents were. Without the proper credentials, even a powerful Pokémon would struggle to break in.
Upon entering, Aoki's eyes scanned the trove of rare items.
There were unhatched Pokémon Eggs—likely containing starters or rare species like Aron and Trapinch, given Devon's research focus. Lava Boosters, Evolution Stones, and battle-enhancing equipment were arranged meticulously. But what truly caught Aoki's attention were the Mega Stones displayed in a separate section.
These must have been ones Steven Stone had discovered during his travels. The collection wasn't massive—probably because Devon Corporation hadn't yet begun large-scale acquisitions—but it was still impressive.
Aoki controlled his expression, feigning only mild interest, so as not to arouse suspicion.
"How about it? Some of these Pokémon Eggs contain rare species like starters or Steel-types such as Aron. You can also choose from a variety of battle items or Evolution Stones."
President Stone's generosity was apparent—he was offering high-value items without hesitation.
"These… seem too valuable. You could obtain them easily, even without my help. Perhaps I should choose something less expensive."
Aoki remained reserved, though inwardly, he had already set his sights on the Mega Stones. As for the Pokémon Eggs, while enticing, it was unlikely President Stone would part with any containing pseudo-legendaries.
"Nonsense! You did us a great favor today, and I insist you take something worthwhile."
Seeing Aoki's lack of greed, President Stone's impression of him improved even further. He appreciated people who didn't expect excessive rewards.
Feigning hesitation, Aoki's gaze drifted toward the "ordinary stones" in the collection.
"These stones look interesting. Perhaps they'd make good decorations."
President Stone blinked in surprise. He hadn't expected Aoki to ignore the more valuable items in favor of what he perceived as mere collectibles. His son, Steven, loved collecting such stones, but aside from their aesthetic appeal, they were considered useless.
Aoki noted President Stone's reaction and felt inward satisfaction—the Mega Stones hadn't been identified yet. If Devon Corporation knew their true worth, they'd never part with them so easily.
"Well… if that's what you want, I suppose it's fine. But honestly, I feel bad—letting you take something so insignificant when I invited you to my vault."
Aoki appeared hesitant. "Perhaps I should choose something else?"
"No need to second-guess! Here, take five of them. They're just decorations anyway."
Internally, Aoki was ecstatic—five Mega Stones in one go! If the Pokémon League later uncovered the true potential of Mega Evolution, acquiring even a single stone would become incredibly difficult. But outwardly, he remained composed.
"Are you sure? Five seems like a lot."
"It's no trouble at all," President Stone assured him. "Consider it a token of my gratitude."
Suppressing his excitement, Aoki accepted the Mega Stones with a seemingly reluctant nod.
As he prepared to leave, President Stone suddenly handed him a black Devon Corporation membership card.
"This is a VIP membership card for Devon. With it, you'll receive a 30% discount on all our products, and we offer free delivery."
Aoki accepted it with a smile. "Thank you, President Stone."
"You're welcome. Though, to be honest, I feel guilty—I only gave you some decorative stones."
Aoki suppressed the urge to laugh. If he knew what he had just given away, he'd be regretting it immensely.
"By the way, President Stone, I plan to continue my journey soon, so I'll be taking my leave."
President Stone gave a nod of approval. "Understood. Safe travels, Aoki. I look forward to seeing how far you'll go."
Aoki quickly exited, resisting the urge to burst into laughter. Today had been an incredible haul.
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