IMPORTANT NOTE: These chapters do get longer. So, I broke them apart into sections to make it easier to read and pick back up. If you ever feel the need to take a break, you can stop reading when you read a symbol that looks like this:

- 0000 -

And...

Just a refresher. Refer to this when needed:

Language guide:

Kantonian - Japanese

Johtonian - Japanese

Hoennian - Japanese

Sinnohan -Japanese

Unovan - American English

Kalosian - French

Alolan - Hawiian

Galarian - British English

*Anything spoken non-japanese will be written in italics.

*The first four regions are accented in their own way. If possible.

*If you are reading this after gen 8, if the series made it past gen 8, the list who be updated in that series.

Key:

"Talking"

"Foreign language"

Signs

'Thoughts'

(Pokédex)

'Telepathy'

- Chapter 2: Lessons, lessons, lessons -

Right next to the professor's lab, across a white fence, is a large building that cannot be missed even if someone tried. It's nearly half the size of the lab, but the red-orange roof makes it stand out. It's built with a smooth grey material, and the door is made of glass. A stone grounded sign reads a cheerful message:

Heal your Pokémon!

Pokémon Center.

Is this the PC the professor was referring to? Mia knows her answers will come soon, so she turns to the tween who begins to explain.

"The building with the red roof is the Pokémon Center. It should be the first thing you visit every time you visit a new town or city. The nurses inside will tend to any injuries your Pokémon have, minor or critical. From battle or not."

"So… it's a Pokémon hospital." Mia notes.

"Yep. That's it." Lucas walks forward, and the glass door slides open automatically. He steps inside, and Mia follows with the two Pokémon close by.

It's very spacious inside, which surprises Mia a bit. The floor tiles are a warm orange. At the very center of the floor is a Pokéball symbol.

Blue and yellow sitting mats are lined against the wall for people to rest on. To the left is an escalator with red rails leading up… and there is another at the right side of the room leading down. Straight ahead, there is a red counter.

A pink-haired nurse with pigtails stand at the counter. Above her head is a large flat screen. At her right is a strange rectangular machine with six round slots arranged in two separate rows. At her left is a huge, oval-shaped pink creature. It has three antennaes on both sides of its head. An egg sits inside its darker pink pouch.

"What is that?" Mia asks Lucas.

Lucas shakes his head. "Don't ask me. Ask the Pokédex. You'll be using it a lot."

She doesn't disagree. Mia decides to try it out. "Pokédex… um… who's that Pokémon?"

Blirr! Blirr! It beeps and blinks in response before speaking;

(Sinnoh Number 097.

Chansey, the Egg Pokémon, and the evolved form of Happiny.

It's typing is: Normal. A kindly Pokémon that lays highly nutritious eggs and shares them with injured Pokémon or people.)

"Oh… that's cool." Mia turns to Lucas, watching him walk to the counter. She follows him carefully. "So it helps her out, huh?"

"It is a great assistant." Lucas smiles. He stands in front of the counter now, and the nurse smiles at him. "Hello, Nurse Joy."

"Hello, Lucas! What brings you here today?" The nurse sounds warm and welcoming. Her Chansey seems happy to see Lucas. "Giving another tour, are you?"

"Yep. You know how it goes." Lucas turns to Mia, and he unclips a Pokéball from his belt. "Do you mind showing her a demonstration on how you heal Pokémon?"

Glameow pauses from her grooming. Her eyes shift towards Lucas, as if she's challenging him to try to use her as part of it.

"My pleasure." Nurse joy smiles. "So as always, welcome to the Pokémon Center! We will heal your Pokémon to full health! So, would you like to heal your Pokémon?"

"Of course." Lucas hands her the Pokéball. That's when Glameow resumes its grooming.

"Wait just a few seconds, please." The nurse carefully turns to the machine, and she sets the capsule on the top left slot. She flips a switch, and a light shines from below the Pokéball.

On the screen above her, it reveals a pink bipedal Pokémon with long pointed ears that are tipped black. It has a pair of darker colored three-pointed wings. It's face is small but welcoming. It seems to be resting, and a light surrounds it before fading.

Bum, bum, bum-bum-ba!

The jingle caught Mia off guard.

The screen shuts off, and the nurse carefully cradles the Pokéball from the machine and hands it back to Lucas. "Thank you for waiting. Your Pokémon has been healed to full health. We hope to see you again!"

"What?" Mia looks at her, not a bit nervous. She hopes? Why would she want to do that again? It's like she wants her Pokémon to get hurt.

"Easy, Mia." Lucas laughs at her expression. "What she means is that she hopes to see you taking good care of your Pokémon. This building is a must after a harsh battle. Trust me. You'll be coming here a lot, especially at the start of your journey."

"Oh… right…" Maybe she was overthinking it. She looks at the nurse again, who waves with a chuckle. Mia awkwardly waves back before realizing Lucas is moving on without her. "Wait!"

"Not going far." Lucas walks to the end of the counter, and he stands in front of a tall blue and round device. It's skinny at the bottom before rounding more towards the middle. The top is an oval with a screen… is that a computer? "This is the PC you'll be seeing a lot. You can store Pokémon in this device."

Wait. So this is the PC the professor was talking about?

Lucas taps the screen once. The device beeps to life, and the screen shines a light blue. A second later, a message is on the screen;

Which PC should be accessed?

Now there is a list; Someone's PC… Lucas' PC, Call PC, Switch Off...

Lucas taps the first option on the screen. The middle of the computer it opens up, revealing a slot inside.

The Pokémon Storage System was accessed.

Now there is another list; Deposit Pokémon, Withdraw Pokémon, Move Pokémon, Move Items, Compare Pokémon…

… See Ya?

What?

"I won't show you everything. This is something you'll get used to on your own. But I'll show you the first option." Lucas says as he taps the first option. He sets the Pokéball in the open slot.

The screen changes again, revealing an image of the pink Pokémon on the center left. Name and number at the top. It's level… it has a level? It's listed as 58.

That's pretty high.

Seems to be a female…

At the right side is a list of Pokémon Lucas seems to carry. There are tiny images of them in two rows of threes. A white glove hand points at the pink Pokémon. As soon as Lucas taps it, another list….

Store, Summary, Mark, Release, Cancel…

He taps "Store." Now another image layers on the screen. A long orange horizontal rectangle… seven square slots… the middle is labeled "Box 1"

He chooses that. The hand snags the pink Pokémon image and the rest shift away, revealing a box full of more tiny images. The pink Pokémon is set next to the rest…

The Pokéball in the slot suddenly glows before fading from existence. Mia has to double check to make sure she isn't dreaming. It just teleported before her eyes, did it?

"Easy. It was transferred to the professor. He has a massive ranch at the back. We take care of the Pokémon there until a trainer needs them back."

"Oh… okay…" Mia can't grasp how technology could be advanced enough to teleport a living creature and having them arrive in one piece. "How many Pokémon can it hold?"

"There are 18 boxes so… about 540."

Mia gawks at this. How could anyone even have so many Pokémon? What were they thinking allowing someone to have that many in the first place? It sounds so unreal. "All from one person?! How does he keep up with that?!"

"A lot of workers and volunteers." Lucas answer. "It's actually a pretty fun job, unless you're dealing with a moody Pokémon…" His fingers hover over the options below the box.

It reads "Party Pokémon" and "Close". His "Party" was probably the six he had with him already…

He selects "Close", and the screen returns the the list from before. He closes that one out, returning to the first. He selects "Call PC". A keyboard appears, and he types a number sequence. "This is it here."

The PC hums seconds at a time. Before Mia could ask why, it stops, and the screen changes, revealing the face of Professor Rowan.

"Whoa!" Mia steps back. This seems to amuse Lucas.

"Ah, Lucas. You found me." The professor's joke is heard through the speaker… wherever it is. Mia can't find it.

Lucas nods. "Just wrapping up a tour, that's all."

"Hm! That's good. Since you are calling me, you must be done with the Pokémon Center basics." The professor's eyes shift over to Mia. "You can call me through here if you ever need me. Close or far, it doesn't matter. I'm willing to listen."

Mia can't help but wonder if she can call other people as well. "So… you're not the only person I can call, right?"

"Of course not. Anyone you wish to speak to will provide you with a card that has their number written down. Those like you who have a Pokédex will have theirs stored inside. You have your own number now. Don't give it to anyone foolish."

"I won't." Mia doubts she would, but she has to be extra careful now. The way he is looking at her means he's very serious about his warning.

"Well, I trust that you are learning. Be sure to return home once this is over. Let Johanna know that you'll be on your way." Rowan looks down before the screen shuts off.

"Well, you heard him. Mom is waiting." Lucas says. "Come on. Let's head for the Pokémart. We'll be inside briefly." He leads her out the door, and they are back on the dirt path.

Lucas walks further down the path. There is a large gap between the Pokémon Center and their next destination, Route 202. Mia knows she won't see it just yet, but she can't help but try to get a glance of it. She only went as far as Sandgem Town, so she always wondered what it's like to go beyond here.

"Mia. Pay attention." Lucas' voice is enough to snap her back to the lesson.

They reached the blue-roofed building… which is smaller than the Pokémon Center, but built the same way. The sign reads:

All Your Item Needs Fulfilled!

Pokémon Mart.

Lucas carries on his explanation. "The building with the blue roof is a Pokémart. You can buy everything you need for your journey. But… since you are a rookie trainer, you won't be able to purchase much. Just start with the basics. Come on. Follow me."

The automatic door slides open and allows them inside. It's a fairly small market, lined with white and packed shelves. Freezers are lined against the wall. The floor tiles are diamond-shaped, outlined with white. It's set in a green and blue pattern.

A blue counter in front of them has a brown-haired clerk standing behind it. The clerk waves at Lucas, who returns it quickly.

"You do have money on you, right?" Lucas asks.

She didn't think of that. She doesn't have a single coin on her. She looks at Lucas with a blank stare, not knowing what to say. "Uh…"

"It's okay. Just let my mom know. I'm sure she'll start you off. You'll earn more money later on, anyway." Lucas isn't bothered. He turns and leaves the building, and Mia is close behind. His bookbag is swung in front of him, and he pulls out several small and purple spray bottles.

"What are those?" Mia realizes they are being offered to her. She takes them carefully. With closer inspection, the bottle isn't purple, the liquid is. It's nearly as thin as water, and it can be sprayed from the grey nozzle. Giving one a quick sniff, it smells like a mix of rubbing alcohol and… fruit? That's bizarre...

"They are potions. Use them to heal your Pokémon when they are having a rough time." Lucas says. "You can usually buy them but… I decided to hand you some of mine to give you a head start. They don't come cheap, you know?"

It's very kind of him to give her a handful. Now that Mia thinks about it, she thought she saw Johanna opening a cabinet that holds a few inside. Never has she ever used them, or maybe Mia never saw her use one yet...

"That's all the basics for you. Any questions?"

"Uh…" Mia pauses as she looks at her Turtwig, who nips at the ground now. She asks with uncertainty; "Are you sure this Pokémon will warm up to me?"

"Well… he tolerates you for now." Lucas answers. His expression shows a bit of concern, so it doesn't make Mia feel any better. "Give it a few days. He'll like you. Pokémon are like people in some ways. Some trust others easier. But it always takes time."

"Okay…" She hopes he's right. The turtle keeps giving her funny looks. It doesn't help that she already isn't so fond of him.

"And now, for one more step."

What other step could there be? He gave her all the basics. But, seeing him reach into his bookbag, maybe he's about to give her something else? She honestly feels like she has enough. The professor stuffed her with enough before. She doesn't need Lucas giving her a thousand more.

Surprisingly, he pulls out a digital camera instead, and he brings the back close to his right eye as he squints the other. "Smile."

This is unexpected. "We're taking a picture? Now?"

"Don't ask. Just do it."

A smile forms on Mia's face quickly. A second later, a flash from the camera makes her blink. Lucas takes a quick glance of the back of the camera before putting it away.

So that's it, huh?

"I should walk you home." Lucas offers as he begins to walk again. "Besides. It's been a while since I personally saw my mother. You would think since Twinleaf and Sandgem are neighbors, I'll always see her. But it's been so busy… and I'm sure my sister is dying to see her too…"

Mia nods slowly. She would try to turn it down since she has her own Pokémon now… but Turtwig isn't really working with her yet. Glameow is good enough but…

Well, Lucas wants to see Johanna. She can't deny him that. The professor just returned, and one would think Lucas could catch a break. It seems that wasn't the case.

Wait. The professor. She nearly forgot.

"Hold on." Mia quickly says, making him stop in his tracks. "I have to see the professor real quick."

Lucas appears a bit bothered by this. He asks a bit impatiently; "You couldn't speak to him while using the PC? You could have done that before when I had him on the line."

She could have, but Mia knows the professor wouldn't want her to discuss a rare subject in the open. Of course, she won't tell Lucas exactly why, but she has to give him a valid reason.

"He wanted me to speak to him personally."

Lucas just stares. "Since when does he-"

"I'll be right back!" She hurries away to the lab door, leaving Lucas a bit confused. She steps inside quickly, but she holds the door open to allow her Turtwig and the Glameow inside. She carefully closes it and heads towards the professor who is facing the long table. "I'm back as you wanted."

Professor Rowan slowly turns around. He glances at his scientists, and he waves them off. They get the message, because they head out the back door in no time. As soon as they are gone, he speaks.

"I see. The tour didn't take as long as I expected. That's good." He waits until she stands in front of him to continue. "So you asked about The Insight earlier. I've traveled quite far in hopes to get more answers, since they say it originated in the Kanto region… but I only managed to find little information. My colleague, Professor Oak, had never heard of it until I mentioned it."

"Oh… okay." Mia is a little disappointed. She was hoping she can learn something useful about it.

"The only thing I managed to learn was that it unfortunately, disappeared 3,000 years ago. It's why people think it doesn't exist, or they are just extraordinarily rare." The professor explains. "That's all I can give you for now. But trust me when I say that Cynthia and I are working hard to find more answers."

"...yeah." Mia looks at another direction. She doesn't want him to see how upset she is. She knows it's very difficult to find any clues about what "The Insight" is. But for some reason, that's what the ghost wants her to find. She wasn't brought here to play hero. It feels like an impossible scavenger hunt at this rate...

"Well… on the plus side… I'm sure you yourself will soon find answers now that you're no longer stuck in one place." The professor looks at the brighter side of things. He walks over to Mia and gently places a hand on her shoulder. He looks down at the Turtwig that nips near his feet now. He moves his foot back. "Your Turtwig there seems ready for his first battle. Why not train him in the tall grass when you have time?"

"Train him? He won't even listen to me." Mia frowns.

"Yes. But he's following you. That's a good first step. Don't lose faith. Remember. In order to bond with your Pokémon, you must understand them first. Do battle. As much as you can. Learn their style, and have them learn yours."

"I'll try."

"Don't try. That's your objective." The professor tells her. He does pause for a second, as if he remembered something. He turns back to the table and picks up the blue hard-case device He was using before. He hands it to her. "Here. Before you leave town, you'll make good use of this."

Mia carefully takes it, and she opens it. She moves her head back and squint her eyes at the bright light that shone from the top and bottom screen. The top screen has a digital display of the entire Sinnoh Region. The bottom… it has an orange magnifying glass icon. "What's this?"

"That is the town map." The professor says.

The name hardly makes sense to her. "But it is the map of the entire county."

"I don't name these things." Rowan says. "Back on topic, refer to that to get a glance of where you are… or where you need to go. See here…"

He taps the magnifying icon on the bottom screen. Information appears now;

Sandgem Town. Town of sand.

A sandy town that is located right next to a beach. It is redolent with the salty scent of the sea.

Prof. Rowan's lab is the town's landmark. He conducts his studies on Pokémon here.

"That's exactly where we are." He nods.

"That's cool…" Mia is impressed. "I guess it would be hard to get lost with an advanced map like this..."

"Hm. I don't know a lot of people who do. Hopefully you won't end up being the rare few."

Mia knows she has a bad short-term memory… but it's not that bad.

The professor presses a few buttons to guide the blinking square that was hovering over her current location. He leads it North. It hovers over what's labeled as 'Route 202' then stops at a large red square labeled as 'Jubilife City'.

"Jubilife City? Isn't that where my brother went?" Mia asks. If she has to go there, she won't like it too much. It is where Marlen lives, and she is in no mood to deal with him. However, at the same time… Dawn should be there too. It's a bit conflicting now.

"Right. It's not too far from here." The professor says. "Be careful on your way there. The next route is less tame than the one you just took."

Mia bows in thanks. "Thank you. You gave me a lot of stuff. I honestly don't know what to think…"

"It will all come in good use, Mia." Rowan assures her.

Mia gives him a small smile. She turns and begins to head out. Glameow immediately follows. Turtwig realizes he is being left behind, so he walks quickly to catch up.

As soon as she steps out, she takes in a deep breath and meets eyes with Lucas, who was waiting near the door the entire time. "Okay. Now I'm ready."

Lucas seems relieved to hear. "You are? Well, let's get going, then."

They turn and head back towards Route 201. However, the lab door swings open in a hurry.

"MIA!"

Lucas is startled silly.

Mia jumps at this, and she slowly turns around. She thought he was done with her! "Professor? What's wrong?"

The professor realizes there was really no need to shout. He probably assumed they would run off in a hurry. So, he clears his throat and explains. "I have something good here. You should take this as well." He pulls out a flat rectangular case from his jacket pocket, and he places it on her hands.

Inside appears to be some sort of silver disc. The label on the case reads "TM27". Mia had heard of TMs. She had seen Dawn use it before on a Pokémon… but the whole process is strange. All that has to be done is press it firmly on their head…

"That is a Technical Machine. That one contains the move Return." The professor explains. "Using a Technical Machine, or TM for short, teaches a move instantly to a Pokémon. Bear in mind, however, that a TM is single-use only. The move Return gains power the more friendly your Pokémon is with you. It's up to you, of course, if you want to use that TM or not. I'll send you off with the wish that your journey will be fun."

"Oh… thanks…"

The professor turns his focus to Lucas. "Lucas, take care of business and return here when you can."

Lucas nods his head once. "Of course, sir." He watches him head back inside, and he makes a comment. "Well, I'll be… The professor had TMs...? Next thing, he'll tell me he battled when he was young."

"Did he?" Mia is interested.

Instead of answering, Lucas begins to walk again. "Let's go."

- 0000 -

As soon as Johanna opens the door, she welcomes Lucas inside with a laugh and open arms. She wears the best smile she had all week.

She doesn't sit around, since she is tending to the house. It's evident from the smell of food that fills the entire house. Johanna returns to her stove and works with the pots and pans of food there. Lucas and Mia sit at the four-person table across the kitchen counter.

"So, Lucas. Professor Rowan has you working your tail off still? I thought he would give you mercy since he left you in charge with the lab during the time he was gone." Johanna grabs a plate from inside a cabinet. She sets it down on the counter and scoops up a spoonful of noodles.

"Well, you know how he is." Lucas nods. "I think I might get a raise today if I'm lucky. I didn't think being an assistant would turn out to be a real job, but I'm glad I'm doing something I enjoy. Even if it's tiring."

"You and Dawn both found something passionate to do. That's what makes me happy, though I wish it were me instead!"

Lucas gives her a funny stare, which makes her laugh.

"I'm kidding. I would never wish that." Johanna chuckles. "And now Mia and Will are leaving the house. Well, Will left hours before… but once Mia is gone, I probably won't know what to do with myself!"

Mia didn't think of it until now. Johanna will be by herself. She would joke around about being excited that she can finally have a quiet house and won't have to clean as much, but she seems to see it happening before her eyes now. It can only be imagined on how that feels.

Johanna walks over to the table, setting a plate down in front of her son.

"Noodles and broccoli?" Lucas is a bit confused.

"A farewell meal for Mia. I figured she would want something that makes her feel a little closer to home." Johanna smiles.

"Thanks…" Mia smiles. She won't deny it. This food does lighten her mood. Once she is served her plate, she begins to eat.

"Maybe one day, you can cook us up a really nice feast. You and Will, I mean." Lucas smiles at the idea he just thought of. "Maybe during your travels, you'll find a ton of new recipes to learn and experiment with."

"Oh, wait. I can!" Mia grows a bit excited with the thought of it.

How did that not cross her mind before? She could learn a lot out there!

Cooking is possibly the best thing she has ever learned how to do. It's the one thing that always reminds her of home...

Her father loved cooking...

Just thinking about him... it's a reminder on why she has to do this. She can't stick around for too long. There is so much to do.

"You know, Mia..." Johanna begins. "... waiting an extra year bothered you, but we had to make sure. Today is finally the day. Looking after you was a task itself. She didn't know what to do, but someone had to prepare you."

The many times she was told that.

Johanna looks down at her ankle due to her Glameow rubbing against it. "Now you have a Pokémon of your own at last. Where is he? I thought I caught a glimpse of him."

Before Mia could answer, Glameow turned her head towards the door and meows softly.

"Oh." Johanna sees the Turtwig sitting there. "Well, I have something for you as well. Just a second…"

Mia watches Johanna rush back to the kitchen. The woman pulls out a handful of what Mia would describe as overgrown blueberries. She walks over to the Turtwig who steps away, appearing defense. "Ah-ah. Don't give me that look."

The Turtwig opens its jaws, but Johanna holds an open palm in front of it. She slowly lowers the hand that holds the berries to the ground, and she steps back carefully.

The Turtwig is confused by this. He looks at the offer, then back at Johanna. His attention is back to the berries again, and he eats them.

Mia can't believe it. She stares at the eating Pokémon. "Wait… how did you do that? He kept trying to bite me earlier!"

"He's not too familiar with people. You have to gain his trust, first." Johanna says. "I would usually give Pokémon poffins but… berries seem better in this case."

Lucas is impressed. "You always know what to do, mom."

Mia places her hand under her chin. She is yet to take a bite of her food, and now she might never. "You make it look so easy…"

Seeing her discouragement, Johanna gives Mia an idea. "You know what? Maybe one way to discipline your Turtwig is to give it's orders in ways no other trainer here would."

"Huh? What do you mean?" Mia asks.

"Rookie trainers will struggle with their new partners at first. They will sometimes listen… but then they would listen to those who aren't their trainer. They don't exactly recognize you as their master yet. It's why criminals target rookies and successfully steal away their Pokémon so easily."

That is true. There were several cases of that happening. Some kid lost their own Glameow to some kind of thief.

"Most Pokémon don't understand human speech very well. But at the same time, they can read our body language and have a good idea on what we are saying. They are very intelligent creatures. If you communicate with Turtwig a lot… he'll become familiar with you. To be safe… why not give out his orders in Unovan? That way, no one else can order him around."

"That's actually… not a bad idea." Lucas agrees. "Say, Mia. Some people give nicknames to their Pokémon. Maybe if you give your Turtwig a name, you'll like him a little more."

"You think so?" That didn't cross her mind. Mia slowly stands, and she joins Johanna's side. "But I don't know what to name him."

"Hm…" Johanna studies the eating Turtwig, and it doesn't take her long to think of something. "What about… Razor Leaf?"

"What?" Lucas is confused. "Isn't that a Pokémon move?"

"Well, true… but it sounds pretty neat for a Pokémon like him. When it evolves, it might stick better than a silly name such as 'Twiggy'." Johanna points out.

"Razor Leaf?" Mia echoes the name. "Razorleaf… maybe. Yeah. I guess I'll call him that."

"That's a good start." Johanna walks back to the table.

Lucas excuses himself from the table. He heads to the kitchen. "What drinks do you have today, mom?"

"Hm… I have lemonade and soda pop if you need something sweet. Everything else is just fresh water." Johanna tells him. "You can bring me a bottle if you don't mind."

Lucas chuckles. "Saw that coming. Mia? What would you like?"

"A soda pop." Mia tells him.

Lucas nods and opens the fridge.

Meanwhile, Johanna goes on. "So you plan on heading off to your journey now? It will be strange for you to no longer be around. But you'll have your Pokémon with you. I don't have to fret about your safety too much. You probably won't need to carry anything extreme like a weapon or anything."

"People carry weapons… I forgot about that." Mia knows that people have them, but she is yet to see anyone with it.

"It's rarely ever seen, if that's what worries you. I do not know anyone who carries a weapon besides high-ranking officers." Johanna says. "But didn't you once tell me how ours are centuries behind compared to what you have in your world?"

"Well… yeah. People don't really… fight with swords or any sharp objects in my world, unless they have no other choice. It's usually with a pocket knife though…"

"Your weapons are as strong as a single Hyper Beam from an enraged Gyarados. I guess that's expected from a world without Pokémon." Johanna says. "Pokémon have been fighting in many wars. Of course we have a history of incredible sword fights. Some regions have fencing as a sport, did you know? It's very popular in Kalos and Galar."

"I'm not exactly interested in fencing…" Mia smiles shyly.

"I know you aren't." Johanna says. "But if you ever do meet someone who's good with a sword, I would like to know. Maybe they can be your bodyguard!"

"Johanna…"

"I'm joking, sweetie. You are fine with just your Pokémon!"

Mia is probably going to miss Johanna messing around with her everyday.

"Got the drinks." Lucas returns, carrying the bottles under one arm. He carefully sets them down and hands each drink to the right person. He takes his seat again and resumes eating.

They eat in silence for a few minutes. Mia has to admit it to herself… she'll miss this cooking, too. She took it for granted until now. The way the flavor fills her mouth with every bite… while Mia herself can cook when she wants to, it is pale in comparison to Johanna. But the woman always told her she's a wonderful cook. Mia doesn't think so.

Once halfway done with her plate, Mia cracks open her soft drink and takes a few sips. The silence is broken once Lucas brings up a new subject.

"So, you want to hear about my latest project?"

Johanna wipes her mouth clean with a napkin. She looks at him, interested. "Who is it from? The professor?"

"No. Myself." Lucas' next answer makes his mother stop eating all together. "I'm hoping to find the Red Gyarados."

Mia gives Lucas a funny look. "You mean that Pokémon they keep talking about from the news lately? Some people say it's just rumors."

"Well, yeah. But this is Sinnoh, who's big on mythology and legends. I guess I got caught up in the craze." Lucas says.

Johanna picks up a bit of broccoli with a small smile. "That's Lucas for you. Always interested in what people think is impossible. So… let me guess. You're heading for Lake Verity?"

"Yep. You know how they say a powerful Pokémon lives there? People keep talking about this Gyarados, and it might be it. What am I going to do? I'll catch that Pokémon. We are going to do research on how it kept its red scales when it evolved, instead of them turning blue."

"It's easier said than done." Johanna tells him, before stuffing her mouth.

"Well…" Mia wants to try to hang out with Lucas a little more before she heads off on her own. She actually wants to see a red Gyarados as well, and maybe have a good seat to witness Lucas capturing it. She tries her luck. "Can… I go with you?"

Unfortunately, Lucas turns her down. "I don't think so. Gyarados are dangerous Pokémon. Rookies shouldn't try to bother with them. You'll get hurt."

"I know Gyarados are dangerous. I'm not gonna try to battle it or do anything crazy like that. I just want to see it. I'll stay distant. I promise. At least before I go?"

Johanna looks at her son. "Lucas, it's her last day."

"Oh, alright…" Lucas sighs. "But Mia… if anything happens, I'm having my Alakazam take you right home. Alright?"

"I know."

As soon as they finish, they give their thanks, and they head out, but not before giving Johanna a hug. They leave town, and Mia follows Lucas as they take the West path this time. She has always played at the Verity Lakefront as a kid… but she never saw a lake.

Johanna never had a problem with her playing there, despite the tall grass being at the lake. Maybe Mia just has a bad sense of direction?

But as always, reaching the end of the path and making a North turn… they reach a dead end. It's just an endless cluster of trees. The only thing that is by it is a lone sign.

Lake Verity Ahead.

According to legend, this lake is home to the Pokémon said to be "The Being of Emotion." It is because of this Pokémon that people can experience sorrow and joy.

Mia looks back at the trees. She doesn't see a lake at all.

"Alright. This is it. The lake is just straight ahead."

Mia just looks at him. Several trees were just standing there, like a forest. How could there possibly be a clearing on the other side? There is only a square patch of dirt between the space of two trees.

"What are you standing there for?" Lucas asks, a bit thrown off by her freezing up. "We just keep walking."

"I don't see a lake anywhere." Mia tells him.

"It's… right over there." Lucas points forward. But all that can be seen are endless rows of trees.

"Umm... I don't see how-!" Mia is interrupted as the boy finally grabs her arm. He pulls her closer to the trees, past the patch of dirt. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! THERE'S NOTHING THERE!"

A white light surrounds her. Seconds later, she sees a clearing.

"What…?"

Lucas releases her hand with a small chuckle. "I see why mom was never worried about you playing around here."

Mia can't even respond. She can't comprehend how this is possible. She's standing in a large clearing. It's very sunny here, and the tall grass grows near the end of the field. It's somewhat bizarre to see some patches of snow. But, the biggest sight is the massive and sparkling lake. Mia finds herself walking into the field for a better look. She does stop at the realization they didn't come alone. Someone stands in the distance.

The man silently stares at the sparkling lake, probably taking in the view. His light blue spikey hair is hardly affected by the flowing wind. His choice of attire is a bit strange for Mia. He seems to wear a long-sleeved black shirt with the matching pants. A grey smooth vest is layered over the top. It's not often people would wear colorless clothes… but the man at the lake, he seems dull. His face looks dull. He looks bored to death, at least that's what Mia assume.

He finally speaks, and his tone is quiet, matching the atmosphere. "...The flowing time... The expanding space... I will make it all mine one day... Cyrus is my name. Remember it... Until then, sleep while you can, legendary Pokémon of the lake bed..."

He turns around, and the pair of children freeze the second he noticed them.

He doesn't seem bothered at all. He walks forward, probably for the way out. He stops before them, bowing his head. "Allow me to pass. Step aside."

Lucas and Mia step out of the way, and they watch him disappear the second he stands in front of the trees.

What he just said...

"He mentioned a legendary. You think he was after the Red Gyarados?" Mia wonders.

"Most likely." Lucas nods. "Everyone wants their hands on it, so it will be no surprise that he hopes to find it, too. Looks like I'll have to watch out for him. I'll hang here for a while and see if I can get lucky."

Mia walks alongside with him further in the field. Now she has a full view of the lake. There is land at the other side. What's interesting is that at the very middle of the lake is a cavern that sticks out the water. She wonders if people try to have picnics there. Maybe experienced trainers would. Then again… it could be wet in there.

"Well, I'll take a look." Lucas announces. He reaches for his bookbag and pulls out a pair of binoculars from the left side pocket. He levels them with his eyes and takes a look.

That alone tells Mia she might be here longer than she hopes. Lucas is known to be very patient. Mia on the other hand…

"How long do you plan on staying here?"

Lucas lowers the tool to look at her. "A little over an hour."

The answer isn't pleasant for Mia to hear. She's a bit conflicted on whether or not she should stay. After several seconds… she decides that a rare Pokémon doesn't just appear when one wants them to. "I think I'll change my mind."

"Fine with me." Lucas shrugs. "You should head out. I'm sure your brother is looking to you."

"Right. He is." Mia remembers. She wishes she can stick around and find the Gyarados, but she underestimated her patience. Why was she thinking it would just appear right in front of them?

- 0000 -

Route 201

A small path through a lush, green, wooded area. The densely grown trees give off a thick aroma.

Walking back to Route 201 is a bit odd to do without Glameow's company. But there's a Turtwig now, who seems to be taking in his surroundings.

She has to cross Route 202 to reach Jubilife City. Her first "mission" is to go to the Trainers' School there. She has to attend it for a whole week.

Seven long days. She can't do anything else since she won't earn her trainer's card until it is done. She isn't looking forward to being stuck in a classroom all the time.

She was so lost in thought while crossing the grass. A sudden rustle makes her freeze in her tracks. She looks towards her Turtwig, who appears very alert. So, she isn't imagining it.

Shaking grass means one thing.

"You hear that? A wild Pokémon!" Mia says as she approached the grass carefully. The grass shakes some more, shifting over towards their direction.

It's getting closer!

She is ready for the Pokémon to jump out of the tall grass to attack. "I bet it is a Ryhorn, or maybe a Weavile." She says, pointing out some of her favorite Pokémon. But, the one who jumped out the grass wasn't the one she was expecting.

It soars over her head with an angry screech. It's a bird. It looks like the same kind that Glameow took down before. It doesn't seem happy.

Reerrre-reee! It's chirping cry shakes in the air as it swoops down. Mia is forced to duck her head. The creature lands on the dirt path, appearing ready to attack again. She grabs hold of her Pokédex and opens it.

The Pokédex picks up the creature immediately.

Blump-blump…

She hears the familiar beeping as the list slides until it stops at Number 10.

Blrr!

Its image appears on the top screen as it replays the very sound it makes. Its information is packed.

(Sinnoh Number 10.

Starly, the Starling Pokémon.

Its typing is: Normal and Flying. Because they are weak individually, they form groups. However, they bicker if the group grows too big.)

The Pokédex entry tells Mia the Pokémon isn't too dangerous. "Alright… maybe I can battle it."

The Starly shifts its feet and spreads its wings to make itself look bigger. It strikes a threatening pose.

What moves to use? What can Turtwig- no, Razorleaf do? Mia decides to try one of her favorite moves. "Razorleaf, Hyper Beam!"

But the Pokémon doesn't bother to move. If anything, he remains still.

Mia gets an idea on why. "Oh...You can't learn that attack yet... Well then use Earthquake!"

Razorleaf the Turtwig lies down then. He seems tired already… or maybe he doesn't care about the battle anymore.

"What…?" Mia decides to check her Pokédex again. This time she checks the information of her own Pokémon. His moveset is there. Just what she needs to see.

Turns out the Turtwig knows the following attacks:

Tackle and Withdraw.

"Aww!"

So much for some favorite attacks.

The Starly loses interest. It turns away and flies away in a hurry.

"Double aww!"

So much for a battle. Mia never heard of a wild Pokémon leaving one before. Is she that bad?

With a bit of embarrassment, she begins to walk again. Soon enough, she arrives in Sandgem Town, and heads North to Route 202.

Route 202.

A winding path that twists through grassy fields. Young trainers like to test their battling skills here.

Nothing truly stands out in the area. It has the same atmosphere as the previous route. However, it isn't as empty. There seems to be a little boy with a Starly. It seems to attack a brown beaver-like creature with stubby fur that could he a tail.

Mia looks it up;

(Sinnoh Number 013.

Bidoof, the Plump Mouse Pokémon.

Its typing is: Normal. A comparison revealed that Bidoof's front teeth grow at the same rate as Rattata's.)

"Rattata? What is that?"

(Pokémon not native to Sinnoh)

It won't even show a picture? Mia sighs as she keeps walking. She is forced to stop as the Bidoof is struck by the flying Starly and knocked on its back.

"Come on, Bidoof!" A nearby brown-haired girl cheers the Pokémon on. "Get up and use Tackle!"

The Bidoof pushes itself to its feet and runs towards the Starly. Despite being somewhat chubby, it is pretty fast, and it tackles the Starly before it could fly away.

"Oh, no!" The boy gasps as his Starly is the one hitting the ground now.

Mia realizes they are having a battle. Testing their skills, probably. She isn't sure if she's ready for that yet. She crosses a patch of tall grass as the two kids continue to shout commands. They don't seem to know what they are doing.

Just like her.

After walking a long way, and making turns, she sees what she is looking for. Skyscrapers are the first thing she laid eyes on.

She picks up her pace, and the grassy route comes to an end as she sees a raised grey platform. A small flight of stairs will lead her to streets filled with people instead of cars, which was strange. "That must be Jubilife city! C'mon!"

Her Turtwig watches her go before he begins to follow.

Running up the steps, she realizes the city is far bigger than she imagined. She'll get lost trying to find the school. The black road stretches far, lined with light poles and building. She does spot a red roof a block away… so it must be the city's Pokémon center.

Checking the town map, the information about her location appears on the screen;

Jubilife City. City of Joy.

The most modernized city in the Sinnoh Region. It is bustling with people on the go.

Located here is the Trainers' School. Drop in to study the basics of Pokémon.

"So Trainers' School is here…" Mia puts the device away. "But where… huh?"

She thought she saw quick movement crossing the road. She walks further, and the movement turns out to be a man sprinting. He moves pretty fast, crossing the road within seconds. He presses his back against the pole, appearing to be in high alert.

Why was there a man running between two poles, hiding? He seems to be on the lookout for something. He also seems a bit shady, especially with his brown trench coat. Mia can't help but wonder what he is doing.

Taking a few steps closer, she has a better look at him now. His belt has a few tools equipped. One has a handle, which she can't figure out. Most of the tools are hidden under the coat. A part of her hopes he doesn't have anything that could hurt her.

She has to pass, just to get to the school, so she tries to act normal.

"Um… excuse me-"

"WHAAAAT?!" He yells in surprise, interrupting her question and startling her silly. "How did you know? That I was a member of the international police?!"

What?

"I-international p-police?! I was only asking what you were doing!" She protests. At the same time, she realized that she better control her tone since she now knows that she is talking to an officer.

"Asking? oh, no, no, no! You saw that, yes that I was investigating. The crime of Team Galactic!" he yelled.

"Team Galactic? I don't even know who they are!" She defends.

"Ah, yes. But you've heard about the saying: 'Don't be a thief!" He asked.

She nods in reply.

The man places his hand under his chin. "Apparently, that Team Galactic and Pokémon Hunters don't follow that saying. They have been stealing other people's Pokémon." The man explains. "Now that my cover has been blown, I suppose I should introduce myself. My name is- ah, no I shall inform you my code name."

"C-code name?" She repeats in confusion. Why is he even talking to her if he's supposed to be hiding?

"Yes. My code name is Looker, which is what they call me." He says, before thinking for a moment. "Ah yes you are a trainer, right?" He asked.

She nods, still confused about this guy.

Looker slips a hand inside his jacket, causing Mia to step away quickly.

He's not going to hurt her, is he?

To her relief, all that Looker pulls out is a strange blue tablet. "This device is called a V.S. Recorder. You can record your battles here." He says.

Now she is even more confused. "Wait... what does this have to do with your investigation?"

"Absolutely nothing!"

"Huh?" At this point, Mia doesn't know if she wants to take him seriously or not anymore.

"Well then! I'll be going now. Don't talk to me while I'm on the lookout. It may blow my cover!" A few seconds later, he had second thoughts. "Wait! Yes! Talk to me! But not because I'm lonely! No, no! Inform me of bad guys!"

Just as he begins to leave, Mia realizes she still doesn't know where she is going. "Wait! Before you go, do you know where Trainers' School is?"

"Hm." Looker glances around before pointing down West. "Down there. Just walk down straight down. Enough talk. I must be off!"

Mia watches him move away, staying in the shadows as much as possible. In some ways… his movements seem exaggerated like he's in a movie. How is he a member of the International Police?

No time to wonder.

First thing to do is head to the school. It's not too long of a walk, but passing so many people isn't what Mia is used to. She has to keep looking back to make sure she didn't lose her Turtwig. Just as promised, it was down the road. The school doesn't appear to be meant to hold hundreds of children. It could hold a classroom or two due to the length.

A nearby ground sign reads;

Trainers' School

The First Step For Trainers!

There isn't a door, which is a bit strange. She can just… walk in?

She slowly walked in, not used to new people. Taking a look around… there is only one classroom, to her surprise. It's large with rows of seats. A chalkboard is in the distance a wall separates the room in half… and at the other side is a huge but lone blue rug. A large screen hangs above it from the roof. Mia could run around in the entire room if she wanted.

Several kids around her age fill the classroom. Most sit at desks as others stand by the board. So many people, and she has to stay for a whole week?

The only adult in the room is a woman with bouncy dark green hair, and casual clothes. She is assisting students by the board. Mia forces herself forward to approach the teacher

As soon as Mia is close enough, she speaks. "Hello…?"

The teacher turns around, and she smiles small. "Hello there. I assume you must be a new trainer… hm… clean clothes and shoes… only one Pokéball… an unruly Turtwig. You are an obvious rookie."

People can actually see that?

Mia catches what she said about her Pokémon. "Wait… unruly?"

"You must had received it from Professor Rowan, since he is the only one who gives them away. He always sent his rookies to this school. You'll be a better trainer once this week is over. How about you introduce yourself to the class?"

Mia realizes many eyes are on her. She takes a step back and lightly grips the bottom of her shirt. But, she forces herself to speak, since she will be here for quite a while.

"My… name is Mia and, I'm 12 years old."

That sentence felt like the hardest thing she had to say all day.

The teacher smiles pleasantly. "Welcome to Trainers' School, Mia. You will be with us for a few days. It is more than enough time to get you started on the basics."

More than enough? She hopes its enough to have her Turtwig not shoot glares at her every time they make eye contact.

To be Continued in Chapter 3!