[Pokémon Breeder in One Piece] Chapter 333 (Patreon)

The Pokémon Coordination Contest was an idea that had existed for a long time.

The contest venue in Alliance City was built almost simultaneously with the battle tournament arena. However, while the battle arena had already hosted its first tournament, the coordination contest venue remained unused even a year later.

There were several reasons for the delay, the most significant being a general lack of understanding or definition of what a coordination contest truly was.

For a battle tournament, the concept was straightforward: it revolved around battles, no matter the format.

But was the essence of a coordination contest simply "coordination"?

Indeed, it was.

Initially, when Dak explained the rules to Perona and other judges, they assumed the core of a coordination contest was "performance."

However, performance was merely the means through which a coordination trainer's abilities were showcased.

The true focus of the coordination contest was to highlight the charm of Pokémon through two different stages.

A qualified coordination trainer needed to harmonize the relationship between themselves, their Pokémon, and the Pokémon's skills. They had to present these skills in ways that amplified the Pokémon's appeal while demonstrating their bond with their trainer.

This was the key distinction between a battle tournament and a coordination contest.

While battle tournaments also emphasized the cooperation between trainers and their Pokémon, the Pokémon alone were the main stars.

In battle tournaments, showcasing strength was paramount, with the focus on the effectiveness rather than the aesthetics of skill execution. The process was often intense and exhilarating.

Conversely, the coordination contest spotlighted both the Pokémon and the trainer, with the emphasis on the artistic and harmonious presentation of skills.

The contest appealed to those less interested in battles but still deeply passionate about Pokémon.

Over the past year, Perona and her fellow judges had gradually grasped the scoring system for coordination contests.

Judging criteria included skill combinations, the harmony between trainer and Pokémon, and the trainer's involvement in the performance. Scoring was more intricate compared to battle tournaments.

At the Alliance base, a small meeting was underway.

Present were Robin, Dak's secretary; Perona, head of the judging department; Tezoro, head of finance; and Morgans, the president of Big News Corporation, who attended as an observer without speaking privileges.

Dak intended to leverage the media's influence to accelerate the promotion of coordination contests, which was why Morgans had been invited.

"Since we've decided to hold the coordination contest, what will the registration process look like? Will it be similar to the battle tournament?" Robin asked, ensuring she could properly delegate tasks.

"Similar, but not identical," Dak replied, taking out a box from his pocket.

Opening it revealed five intricately designed ribbons.

Everyone leaned closer to examine them, and Morgans snapped a photo for promotional purposes.

"To register for the Pokémon Coordination Contest, participants must collect five ribbons. However, there's no fixed location to obtain them—only a consistent method."

"Any city with an appropriate stage and Pokémon Center may host a coordination contest. Tezolo, your department will announce such events a week in advance."

As coordination contests required funding and logistical arrangements, this responsibility was delegated to Tezolo.

"Leave it to me! By the way, can I be the host?" Tezolo eagerly asked, patting his chest.

A former singer, Tezolo loved the spotlight. Though his singing days were behind him, he still cherished the feeling of being on stage.

"Of course. If you have time, go ahead. Normally, this would fall under Perona's department," Dak agreed readily.

"Is winning the contest the only way to earn a ribbon?" Perona inquired, needing clarity for the judges under her supervision.

"Exactly. Only the winners will receive ribbons," Dak confirmed. "The requirements are strict because only the best coordination trainers can compete in the Grand Contest."

The Coordination Contest differed from battle tournaments in its entry requirements.

While battle tournaments only required eight gym badges, coordination contests demanded winning against peers in smaller contests to earn ribbons.

Though fewer trainers qualified for the Grand Contest, those who did were the crème de la crème.

"I see. The first coordination contest will be held a week from now in Yggdrasil. I'll perform on stage during the event," Dak announced, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

This coincided with the day Mew and Celebi would begin selecting the "Aura Guardian" and "World Tree Protector," promising an eventful time.

The Next Day

Near the Alliance City staff residential area, posters for the Pokémon Coordination Contest had been put up.

"Hey, Minato, this looks fun! Should we join?" Kushina exclaimed, her excitement evident.

Having enrolled Naruto in Pokémon Academy, Kushina was delighted with her newfound free time, often dragging Minato out for dates.

"I'm too busy. You should join, Kushina. Naruto and I will cheer you on," Minato replied, balancing his responsibilities as the Fourth Hokage.

"But it wouldn't be fun without you," Kushina pouted.

Minato chuckled warmly, reluctant to dampen her spirits but too occupied with village duties to participate.

The rules for the coordination contest were also posted.

First Round: Performance Stage
Trainers would perform individually, showcasing their Pokémon through singing, dancing, skill demonstrations, or any other creative means to highlight their charm.

Judges would score each performance, with the top 20 advancing to the second round.

Second Round: Battle Stage
Though similar to regular Pokémon battles, this round introduced a unique scoring system. Judges evaluated not only successful attacks but also their elegance and execution.

The final winner would receive a trophy and the title of "Coordination Master."

In the Pokémon world, Coordination Masters were often more renowned than regional champions due to the contest's broad appeal and televised coverage.

"This looks so exciting! Even if we don't join, we should watch it. It'll be amazing," Minato suggested, aiming to please Kushina.

The first contest would be held in Yggdrasil, a city known for its tranquility and beauty—a perfect spot for a date, Kushina thought.

"Let's go, Minato!" Kushina said eagerly, her eyes lighting up.

Sighing in defeat, Minato relented. "Alright. I'll ask the Third Hokage to handle things for a couple of days."

(End of Chapter)

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