Aoki got out of the car at exactly noon, feeling stiff from the three-hour ride.
Wearing a plain Trainer outfit, he blended seamlessly into the crowd as he stepped into the city.
Slowpoke was released from its Pokeball. As a shiny Pokemon, it attracted a few glances, but Saffron City, being the most bustling hub in Kanto, was used to such sights. The shiny Slowpoke caused a few heads to turn but didn't stir much commotion or trouble.
Saffron City was rely a stop on Aoki's journey, but as the largest and most prosperous city in Kanto, it was the perfect place to pick up so necessary supplies and tools.
Aoki needed a proper set of tools to craft Pokeblocks. Previously, he had relied on makeshift tools, limiting him to creating only interdiate-level Pokeblocks. With high-quality equipnt, he could produce advanced Pokeblocks, which had significantly better effects.
The difference between interdiate and advanced Pokeblocks was like night and day. Interdiate Pokeblocks could boost a Pokemon's growth and recovery speed, but advanced Pokeblocks not only doubled these effects but could even slightly improve a Pokemon's stats with regular use.
This made advanced Pokeblocks highly sought after. Registered senior breeders in the League were rare and heavily protected, enjoying excellent benefits. Their advanced Pokeblocks were coveted by Trainers, who were often willing to pay hefty sums or even work for the breeders in exchange for custom-made Pokeblocks.
Becoming a senior breeder was no easy task. Crafting advanced Pokeblocks was just one of many requirents. The League had fewer than a hundred registered senior breeders, and they were treated with great respect, much like elite Pokemon doctors.
For those who could make advanced Pokeblocks, money flowed freely—but only if they had the strength or protection to safeguard their earnings.
Aoki planned to find a larger store to purchase the tools he needed. Saffron City was filled with malls and Pokemon shops. Where there was wealth, there were shadows; the city's black market was just as thriving.
Aoki was familiar with the Saffron City black market. The largest underground trading hub in Kanto, it was run by Team Rocket, with its operations overseen by Sabrina, the moody and powerful Psychic-type specialist. Her authority was unchallenged.
The black market offered everything imaginable: rare held items, high-quality Pokemon, and even pseudo-legendaries—provided you had the money. It was a haven for those with cash to burn and the strength to leave with their purchases.
Aoki needed the black market for the tools, as mall prices were too steep. He was down to 1,000 Pokédollars after spending 500 on his bus ticket. The black market also allowed him to sell items discreetly for League currency.
Before heading to the black market, Aoki needed lunch. After three hours of travel, he was famished, and so were his Pokemon.
He found a small but reputable hotel, used his League ID to book a room for an hour, and ordered als for himself and his Pokemon. The lunch cost him another 200 Pokédollars, leaving him with just 300.
The hotel's service was prompt. After having Gastly inspect the room for surveillance equipnt, Aoki opened the door to a waiter delivering the food. The al was quick, as Aoki had business to attend to. His Pokemon enjoyed their al, and after eating, they obediently returned to their Pokeballs. Gastly faded back into Aoki's shadow.
At the front desk, Aoki requested a taxi. After waiting for half an hour, an experienced driver dropped him off near the black market. The ride cost his last 300 Pokédollars, but Aoki had finally arrived.
The black market in Saffron City was not accessible to just anyone. Aoki found a secluded spot, changed into a Team Rocket uniform, and donned a black cloak and wide-brimd hat to conceal his identity.
He entered a seemingly ordinary Pokemon shop with a modest display of items. A staff mber greeted him with a professional smile, saying, "Welco! How can I assist you today? We offer great quality at affordable prices and are sure to et your needs."
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