Pokémon. © 1995-2021 Nintendo/Creatures Inc./GAME FREAK Inc. TM, and Pokémon character names are trademarks of Nintendo. No copyright or trademark infringement is intended in using Pokémon content on this original fanfic created by the author. All rights are reserved to owners/creators. All original work posted here is reserved and copyrighted by author.
PROLOGUE:
This is the story of how a teenager and his best friends become the ultimate Pokémon trainers. Francis King, a teen with an illustrious family of Pokémon experts and leaders, sets on his quest towards the Pokémon League after his number one rival decides to challenge the former in order to become the champion. Inspired by his rival's dreams and his family's heritage, Francis, a dedicated, ambitious, and perfectionist high school student, finally decides to become a Pokémon trainer -the ultimate Pokémon trainer and champion. Follow his adventures and misadventures in this epic tale that will uncover his passion and his love for Pokémon!
EPISODE 1 - I CHOOSE YOU, Pokémon!
[Fhranisa Region/Rio Town/King Residence/Spring 20XX/Saturday Morning]
"Francis! Francis!" Josh shouted as he was waiting for his old brother to respond.
Francis was listening to his music with his earphones on while dancing around his room.
"Open the door, Francis. I have news!" Josh said behind the door still waiting for his brother to respond, getting inpatient.
Francis was dancing and singing all over his room, not minding a thing in the world "Umm…umm…yeah! Yeah!"
"FRANCIS! I'm coming in whether you like it or not!" Josh opened the door and found his brother acting up; he got speechless and amused at the same time.
Francis then jumped on his bed for the song's finale, when he suddenly spotted his little bro staring at him. "UH? JOSH!" Francis got embarrassed and quickly got down from his bed.
"FRANCIS!"
"JOSH! What are you doing here?! What did I tell you about barging in here like that!"
"I DID KNOCKED! I knocked and knocked but no answer! It seems you were pretty busy though…"
"EH? Well…I was…never mind that, what do you want?" Francis tried to change the subject.
"You have to look outside the windows NOW…do you know who is moving in next door?" Josh asked.
"Nope. All I know is that the place was vacant…up till today I guess…but who's moving in?" Francis replied seeming the least bit interested, "I thought the Beatles just moved out last month. Who'd move-in to our town this fast? A lot of people don't like our peaceful and little town…it's just too small for them and for the rest, they just come here to be closer to the Pokémon Lab."
"Exactly! Just look!" Josh yelled as he wanted to see his brother's face when he notices something important.
Francis, now intrigued, looked outside the windows. Then his face and mood suddenly changed. He was shocked; his jaws dropped to the floor, "WHAT?! What is he doing here in our town? Why is his family moving here, why?!"
Josh, satisfied, said "Yep! That was the expression I was looking for!" while taking a pic with his Poke-PAD to keep on his files for future use and social media.
Francis, furious and annoyed, exclaimed "WHY THEM FROM ALL PEOPLE?! WHY HERE?!"
"What else! His parents work for the Pokémon Professor and they needed to be closer to their jobs. I also heard that he was going to throw a housewarming party and tell people something about…about the Pokémon League."
"Damn! I kind of knew about the league, but not him moving here to Rio Town! It's been going around the school, his doings and goals. But what exactly about the Pokémon League?"
Doors were knocked.
"Again!" Francis said. "Who is it?"
Kassie entered the room. "Guys! Here you are!"
Francis and Josh collectively said "K.K! What's the matter?"
"Francis, there's someone downstairs looking for you."
"Who is it? I didn't invite any friends over…" Francis replied.
"I believe he goes to the same school as you…what was his name..."
"You mean Marcus?" Josh replied looking at his brother take it all in.
"Marcus?! What does he want with me?" Francis got upset.
"Well let's go find out! Common, he is waiting! Don't be rude! NOW!" Kassie said while signaling him to go downstairs that instance and attend his guest.
Francis and his siblings rushed downstairs to attend the unexpected guest.
Marcus was waiting at the living room, all prepared to surprised Francis, a childhood friend. Francis and co. approached but then realized someone else was with him, "Hello guys! Oh! This is my little brother Kalel. Introduced yourself little bro!"
"Hello! My name is Kalel! Nice to meet of all you!" Kalel smiled and then sat at one of the couches nearby.
"HELLO KALEL! NICE TO MEET YOU!" The King siblings replied with joy.
"Francis!"
"Marcus!"
"Francis! What's up?"
"What's up with you?"
"What kind of welcome is that?"
"UH?"
"Why are you being so arrogant right now? Aren't you glad someone as prestigious as me just moved next door?"
"WHAT?" Francis got angry, "Who's arrogant? Just tell me, WHY ARE YOU HERE?"
Josh and Kalel went to the kitchen to get some juice. Kassie then said, "Why are you both being like that? What's the matter with you two...anyways, I'm going to the kitchen as well. Would you like something to drink Marcus?"
"Thanks! A glass of water would be nice." Marcus smiled.
Francis a bit calmed, exclaimed "So…what bring you guys here, honestly?"
"Well, my parents have been looking for a place close to the famous Pokémon Research Lab, so as soon as one was up in the market, they didn't think it twice and bought the place. It was not trouble at all, nerd..."
"YEAH! YEAH! OK! Great…great story Marcus…anything else?"
"Now that you mentioned it, there is too someone else I'd like you all to meet." Marcus proceeded to get a pokeball out of his pocket. He kissed the pokeball and threw it up in the air. A Pokémon appeared.
A Perro-oh appeared. "PE! RRO! RRO! ROH!"
Kassie, with a glass of water in her hands, was pleased to see a Perro-oh, one of her favorite Pokémon. "Wow! A Perro-oh! So cute!" Then delivered the water to Marcus.
"Thanks Kassie! You're awesome!" Marcus drank the water.
"You got a Perro-oh, now?" Francis was confused, "How come you have a Pokémon with you? Didn't you said that you wanted to take the Pokémon League Admissions Exams? I thought you didn't have time to travel around and collect badges due to all of your extracurricular activities, extensive volunteering, Pokémon research, and whatnot…"
Josh and Kalel entered the room.
"A Perro-oh! That's so cool!" Josh petted the Pokémon with delight.
Francis still perplexed about the intrusion, said "Yeah, ok…I see your newest Pokémon, great! Now what? If you're looking for a Pokémon battle, you're out of luck. I have no Pokémon."
"WHAT? Are you serious?!" Marcus said with disbelief and amazement.
"The only Pokémon we have with us is Kassie's Gatty." Josh commented.
"My Gatty? I don't know guys…sometimes it just loses interest in the battle and starts chasing anything around…you know how it gets…" Kassie replied.
"WAIT! That's not what I'm here for. I wanted to invite you personally to our housewarming party; hope you are interested. I want to tell everyone something really important as well. Hope you can make it, regardless of our indifferences…" Marcus explained, grabbed his Perro-oh, and thanked them all for the hospitality. Kalel followed. "Well, good bye! Don't forget it starts at 7 P.M. Please don't be late!" Marcus and Kalel left to their new home.
Francis was confused, upset, and curious. They have always been rivals since elementary school where they first met. To find more information about Marcus' deal, Francis, accompanied by Josh, went to visit his two best friends: The Mezza. Johnny and his little sister Belen have been best friends with Francis since kindergarten. Also, these two families have lived in Rio Town almost the same amount of time and have worked together as well. They are very good friends.
[Rio Town/Mezza's Residence – Rio Park/Saturday Noon]
"Francis! Josh!" Johnny yelled as he noticed them coming down the street. He was mowing the lawn and his sister was tending the garden.
"Little Josh! Francis!" Belen said, all blushed and happy to see them.
"Hey guys!" Francis high-fived Johnny and Belen.
"HI GUYS!" Josh hugged Belen and fist-bumped Johnny.
"What's up guys?!" Johnny and Belen asked while inviting the two brothers to sit down at the nearby bench in the porch.
"What's the matter, bro? You seem stressed." Johnny was concerned.
Belen got worried, "Yeah Francis, what's wrong?"
"Guys, do you actually want to take a walk with me…US? I need to know something."
The Mezza siblings proceeded, "What is it, Francis?" while walking down the neighborhood towards the little park situated at the center of the town.
"First of all, do you know who moved in next door to us today?" Francis asked.
"The Peace?" Johnny and Belen answered.
"Huh? How did you know? Did he come visit you too?" Francis sat at one of the benches.
"Visit us? No, he didn't. Why, did he visit you?" Belen was intrigued and confused.
"He did, this morning, along with his little brother Kalel and his newest Pokémon, Perro-oh." Francis said dramatically, "Then he invited us to his housewarming party and lastly, he said that he had important news to tell everyone. It's probably related with him taking on the Pokémon League, if my guts are right…"
"He did invite us to his party, though. He sent us an email…" Johnny remembered.
"WHAT, HE DID? Are you serious?" Francis was baffled.
"…but he only did so because my mom is friends with his parents, you know, all of them being scientists and working together sometimes." Johnny explained.
"Oh…I see…" Francis was relieved. "So, you guys are gonna go?"
"We were thinking about it, but we know how you feel towards Marcus…" Belen said, "If you don't want us to go because it makes you feel unappreciated or betrayed even, we understand."
"Did he bully you again?" Johnny asked Francis while looking him straight in the eyes, making sure he was not lying or afraid to tell them the truth.
"It's not that guys…but…do you think I have what it takes to become a great Pokémon trainer?" Francis exclaimed while hoping to come to a conclusion about conflicting feelings he has kept for so long.
"But you hate Pokémon!" Josh told.
"WHAT? Who said that?" Francis was surprised, "That's not it!…it's just that most of my family and relatives work for the Pokémon Federation and Pokémon Association…so all my life I've been around Pokémon, Pokémon Scientists, Pokémon Leaders, and Pokémon Experts, and honestly all I've heard and seen has been Pokémon since I've been born…"
"So, you are tired of Pokémon?" Josh asked confused in a way to make Francis open-up about his true feelings.
"No bro. The truth is although I may not be a Pokémon dedicated fan or a student, I feel like it is one of the calls I'm destined to fulfill…despite the fact that I don't know almost anything about Pokémon…"
"WHAT?" The Mezza were taken by surprised, "Didn't you learn anything about Pokémon with your family all this time? Watch them battle? Tutor? Coach?!"
"I did, but I was actually daydreaming about other things when they were teaching us all of that. I want to become an animator and a tv producer too; I also like writing stories to be honest…"
"We know! You are great at it! I've read your short stories and enjoyed your comic strips!" Belen exclaimed with enthusiasm.
"I think you have it in your blood bro…" Johnny proceeded, "And you are competitive and a perfectionist. That's why I believe you can become a great Pokémon Trainer for sure!"
"I agree!" Belen remarked with a big smile.
"Well, he IS an honor student after all. I'm surprised that with all that smarts, he can't figure out Pokémon!" Josh said.
"HEY! HEY! HEY! I just have to dedicate my passion one dream/one call at a time and Pokémon hasn't come around yet…I have to graduate with the best grades so I can get scholarships for college. I also want to get into arts and journalism to polish my skills before attempting to challenge the League!"
"That's awesome buddy; you can do all of that! And I'm here to help if you need me." Johnny replied.
"I'm here to help too, Francis. We are best friends. I believe that if you want to become a Pokémon trainer you should do it!" Belen pointed out while also looking up to the sky, puzzled, "What's that big cloud, guys?!"
Everyone looked up. The cloud was dark, intense, and ominous. The air got chilly and everyone was petrified with curiosity and fear, but then…
"What's that golden thing creature?" Francis asked in amusement.
Everyone else tried to find the golden creature Francis was talking about, but nothing to be seen. Then the dark clouds disappeared and it started to pour heavily. Everyone escaped from the rain by taking shelter under the gazebo at the center of the little park. Everyone was baffled but somewhat inspired by the wonderful natural events and also by the myth of Pokémon.
"Look at the time, guys! We need to go back home bro." Josh said, "Kassie probably wants us to do our homework before we go to Marcus' party."
"You are right. Thanks, guys, for hearing me out. When I'm ready to take the Pokémon trainer's path, I know I'll be the best because I can be the best and also because I have you both!" Francis said in gratitude.
"You got it bud!" The Mezza proclaimed. "So, we will see you guys at the party?"
"YEAH!"
"See you then!" The Mezza left to go back to their home to get ready as well.
Francis and Josh rushed home in order to have time to do their homework, finish their chores, and get ready for the party.
[Rio Town/Peace Residence/Saturday 7:00 P.M.]
The day had passed and Francis, Kassie, and Josh attended the Peace's Housewarming Party. Music was playing mildly loud. There were people, but not too many. Some people were recognizable like Marcus and Kalel's parents, the Peace, who are Pokémon researchers and assistants to the famous Pokémon Professor, Pr. Pine; she is the lead Pokémon researcher of the Fhranisa Region and also a farmer.
"Hello darlings!" Mrs. Peace exclaimed. "What a pleasure! Please come in!"
"Good evening Mrs. Peace!" The King and Mezza siblings said.
"HEY TROOP!" Mr. Peace came around and spotted them, "Come in!" Then directed his eyes to the King, "It's unfortunate that your parents couldn't make it, but they had already sent us their kind regards and great housewarming gifts; we're glad that at least YOU bunch made it! Thanks for coming!"
"Yes darlings! Please thank them whenever you speak to them, ok?" Mrs. Peace implored.
"We will." The King responded.
Now looking towards the Mezza, Mrs. Peace said "Also, it's unfortunate that your mother couldn't make it due to extensive work…but she had sent us her appreciation with housewarming gifts too, so please kindly thank her for us!"
"We will, Mrs. Peace." The Mezza affirmed.
"We understand how hard it is to get off from work during a work project or work period." Mr. Peace thought, "But we planned this in advanced and had requested off. Anyways, do enjoy the party."
"There are refreshments over there and some food over there as well, please help yourselves." Mrs. Peace said guiding the guests towards the social area, "Now if you excuse us, we have to welcome other guests. See you around."
"Don't hesitate to ask for anything, troop." Mr. Peace left with his wife.
"Hi Marcus! How are you doing?!"
Marcus was surprised and honored. "Professor Pine! What a pleasure! How are you doing?"
"I'm doing great! Thanks for asking!" Professor Pine said pleased, "Nice party!"
"Thanks!"
"I'm surprised because I've been working too much and slept too little…so, I really don't know how I made it, but I'm here for friends like you." Professor Pine admitted, "Anyways, your parents told me you wanted to talk to me…what can I help you with?" Professor smiled.
"Oh that! Yeah…I wanted to ask you for a big favor…"
"What is it, Marcus?"
"I've decided to become a full-time Pokémon trainer and also compete in the Pokémon League!"
Professor got happier, "I know! Your parents told me and they are so proud of you."
"Yeah, they were actually TOO happy that they gave me like 100 pokeballs, can you believe it?" Marcus laughed.
"That's just like them! They are thoughtful and silly, but they love you Marcus."
"Yeah, I know, they do…anyways, can you please, please provide me with a PokeDEX so I can start my journey tomorrow?" Marcus asked with faith and excitement.
"Absolutely! Come by the labs tomorrow morning and I will give you one personally! It will be a pleasure seeing you take your parents' steps and trying to become a Pokémon champion." Professor said with conviction and sincerity, "But I feel like something is slipping out of my mind, something to do with an email from the Pokémon Association…" The Professor tried to remember.
Marcus spotted Francis and co. and went to welcome and talk to them, "Thank you, Professor. I will be at your labs first thing in the morning!" Marcus left.
"You're welcome…" Professor said while still trying to figure out what the email was about.
"They grow so fast, don't they?" Mr. Peace declared.
"My second baby is ready to take over the world and dedicate his life to Pokémon!" Mrs. Peace professed while trying not to cry.
"Hello again, you two!" The Professor said to the Peace; "He's going to become a superb Pokémon trainer, just like you two. He also has qualities to become a champion someday…"
"Thanks Professor; you are so nice and uplifting. He said that he wanted to be as knowledgeable and intelligent as you; he will someday…" The Peace told the Professor, "He said that the Pokémon Federation and Association both are also his inspirations; he would like to work with them someday…"
"THAT'S IT!" The Professor shouted in delight. "The Pokémon Federation!"
"What about the Pokémon Federation, Professor?" The Peace responded curiously.
"I was confused! Association...federation...league...anyways, they called me to inform me that they had sent a very important email regarding the Pokémon League and the Gym Challenge for this year!" The Professor remembered.
"What could it be?"
"I can find it on my phone right now and see what's the matter" The Professor pulled out her phone.
"That's a good idea!" The Peace agreed.
Kassie was talking to some high school friends she recognized; Josh and the Mezza were eating something right around the buffet table. Francis was grabbing a sandwich when suddenly Marcus stood in front of him. Francis looked bothered.
"There you are! I'm surprised you actually made it. I thought you wouldn't have the guts because knowing YOU..." Marcus remarked, "But maybe you are here just cuz of your siblings."
"Oh-hey Marcus…" Francis responded and then finished his sandwich, "Nice party. You see me…OK! I guess we should get going…"
"But before you go, at least stay to hear my big announcement!"
"What announcement? What are you talking about?" Francis asked with annoyance.
Marcus stood at the center of the living room and grabbed a chair to stand on. Then with a glass of juice in one hand and with a spoon in the other, he grabbed everyone's attention and directed Kalel to stop the music. He looked at his parents, then the Professor, and finally his rival, Francis.
"Excuse me everyone!" Marcus shouted, "First, I want to thank you all for coming to this humble party and for the amazing housewarming gifts; you are so nice! Thank you from all of us, The Peace…"
The crowd was focused on Marcus; Francis and co. were puzzled yet interested to hear what Marcus had to say.
"I've decided to embark on my own journey to become a superior Pokémon trainer whose goal is to become the Champion of Fhranisa one day…" Marcus delivered.
The crowd cheered and everyone was fascinated and inspired. The Peace got sentimental and the Pokémon Professor got teary eyes.
"My number one inspiration are my parents because they have taught me life, love, passion, and compassion for Pokémon…" Marcus drank some juice, "Then our own Pokémon Professor is also my inspiration because she has been an outstanding help in the Pokémon research communities and she never fails to teach all of us new things about Pokémon and our world…" Marcus continued.
The crowd directed their eyes to Pr. Pine and applauded in agreement and gratitude. The Mezza were listening, but also eating pastries. Josh and Kassie hang together and they both were paying attention. Francis was jealous and inpatient for Marcus to finish his speech so he could finally leave.
"Lastly, I want to say that my inspiration is also all of you, our friends, who love Pokémon and our beautiful world too; I want to protect you, the Pokémon, and our land…I will realize my dreams and become number one! An exceptional champion! So, thank you all for coming, please continue and have a great time!" Marcus concluded.
The crowd applauded and were contented. Everyone resumed and continue to enjoy the wonderful get together. The Peace yelled, "We are proud of you son!" while Kalel waved in approval and coolness.
Marcus rushed to Francis and with a smirk on his face said, "So what'd you think, Francis? I will be the champion and also the number one Pokémon trainer in Fhranisa!"
Francis convinced of what he was going to say, took a deep breath, and hoped that it was the right decision. "Well you are wrong!"
"What?!"
"I am also becoming a Pokémon trainer, but I will become the champion!" Francis blurted.
The Mezza approached Francis and focused on what was happening. Kassie and Josh joined.
"YOU? A Pokémon trainer?" Marcus joked and sarcastically claimed, "You don't know anything about Pokémon! You don't even have your own Pokémon, which surprises me because your family are prestigious Pokémon experts…but hey, they say there's always one black sheep in the family!"
"What'd you say?!" Francis shouted angrily. The Mezza looked and were waiting to jump in just in case something started.
"Anyways, you are just saying that because you are jealous and can't stand the idea of someone as talented as me becoming someone you want to be! You wanna be me!" Marcus uttered in a narcissist way.
Francis was upset. He tried to find comebacks but was distracted by the fact that Marcus was right in some way. He knew in his heart that he too can become a great Pokémon trainer, perhaps not the champion like his rival aims to be, but someone that his parents could be proud of. He was convinced of himself, "I will become a great Pokémon trainer. I will prove you and everyone that I can be one of the best and I will try my all to do so…"
The Mezza were shocked yet happy. Josh and Kassie were surprised and confused as they thought they knew how their brother was. The Peace and Pr. Pine spotted the group.
"I will also start my own journey and learn as much as I can about Pokémon; I will be the very best like no one ever was, not even YOU…I will not let you keep stealing the spotlight and outwitting me in everything I wanna do!" Francis concluded and was ready to leave before he got more irritated and doubtful.
"You can say whatever you want but I will be the champion, nerd, don't forget!" Marcus finished.
"I'm sorry to interrupt you guys…"
"UH? Professor?"
"Mom? Dad?"
"Hi sweetie! Hello troop!"
"Hey!"
"What's the matter? Everything OK?" Marcus was confused and concerned. Francis was too and directed his attention to the professor. Everyone followed.
"Well…unfortunately something was brought to my attention and I believe it might be bad news for you, Marcus…" The professor confessed while looking sensitive.
"What is it? What's going on?" Marcus said with a worried tone.
"Well, the Pokémon Federation, with the permission of the Pokémon Association, had decided to change some things around this year's Pokémon League…"
Everyone was paying full attention to the Professor now.
"They have canceled this year's Pokémon League in order to focused in another League…"
"WHAT? ANOTHER LEAGUE?" Everyone reacted.
"Yes, the Pokémon Team League!" The professor shouted.
"POKEMON TEAM LEAGUE?!"
"Yes! But, Marcus, I just got these news and so did your parents; I am sorry about your plans, truly…I had to let you know before you leave town tomorrow." The professor said heartfully.
"It's unfortunate, but you can still try, son…" Marcus' parents agreed.
"I can?"
"What's the Pokémon Team League, professor?" Curious Josh asked with enthusiasm to know it all.
"And why did they change the league this year?" Kassie asked.
"All good questions that I am happy to answer…" The professor continued, "As you all may know, Fhranisa's Elite Four sacrificed themselves for the well being of all of us, the Pokémon, and our region when they fell in battle against pure evil years ago…"
Everyone remembered and agreed, displaying sad and emotional profiles.
"Ever since then, we have been living in peace and harmony; all is well in our world, but the Federation wants to protect our future and wants to make sure it stays this way forever, or at least most of the time. They have concluded that they must be ready for anything just in case evil rises again…" The professor explained, "So, they want to have teams of magnificent and great Pokémon trainers join them in the preservation and safety of the land and the Pokémon; they want ace Pokémon trainers to help the Federation keep the peace and protect our people and our Pokémon to put it simple…"
"That's awesome" Josh said. "That's incredible and noble!" The Mezza exclaimed.
"This year, instead of the usual Pokémon League, the Federation is launching the Pokémon Team League!"
"What are the requirements to participate in this new league, professor?" Marcus asked very intrigued.
"Yes! The requirements…" The professor took out her phone to read the qualifications, "There would be twelve teams competing in this league. Teams composed of three Pokémon trainers; trainers must be between 12-18 years old. The participants must enroll/sign up at the nearest Pokémon Center or with the Pokémon Professor…that would be ME!"
Everyone was intrigued and focused, awaiting for the rest of the instructions.
"The teams must give themselves a name and register individually with a beginner Pokémon each. They must have their PokeDEX, as an ID, and have at least the recorded data of 150 Pokémon plus by the time of the championships to meet standards…" The professor read and continued, "All the registered teams must attend the upcoming Pokémon Federation Teams Inauguration Event in order to meet the directors and the current Fhranisa champion. Team leaders must earn eight gym badges, while its teammates must earn their 8 pins each correspondently. Teams must also earn the seven Pokémon League scholarly diplomas or degrees from the Pokémon Federation Seminars given at participating schools found all over the region; Team members must pass with a grade B or above each…"
"WOW!"
"Lastly, by the time they reach the championships, the teams must have six Pokémon each, with a total of 18 Pokémon per team to enter the championships…" The professor concluded reading, "Wow! This is going to be incredible to witness!"
Everyone applauded. They surely were surprised by the news so everyone began to talk about it.
"You see Marcus, you can still compete if you'd like..." Mr. Peace remarked, "Even though it's not something you had expected…"
"A Pokémon Team League? It sounds like a challenge I want to take on!" Marcus was resolved and psyched.
"Even if you won't be the only champion, sweetheart?" Mrs. Peace told.
"It's cool mom! I like challenges and I'm a great team leader! I am sure my team will win this new and exciting league!" Marcus got confident and eager to start, but then…
"Professor, where can I sign up my team for the championships?" Francis asked.
"WHAT?!" Everyone looked at Francis.
"What do you think you are doing, Francis? What team?!" Marcus hysterically asked with curiosity. Everyone around was carefully listening too.
"What do you think I'm doing, Marcus? I'm trying to sign up my team so we can start our journey."
The Mezza, a bit uncomfortable and puzzled too, met with Francis and asked, "Francis, what team are you talking about?"
"YOU GUYS, OF COURSE!"
"WHAT?! US?!" The Mezza were shocked and speechless.
"THEM?" Marcus replied.
"YES! You guys are my best friends and we make the perfect team. Are you with me?" Francis smiled and did two thumbs-up.
The Mezza, confused yet honored and thrilled for the adventures, decided to join Francis and make up a team. After all, they did promise him they will do anything to help him accomplish his goals. "We are on your team, buddy! You can count us in!"
"Now you see Marcus, I, I mean, WE are ready to embark on our journey to become the best team of Pokémon trainers and win the championships…unlike YOU!" Francis declared with a smirk on his face.
"My team? Well…" Marcus thought for a minute; he knew his best friends were back at his old town and they all had plans. He also remembered that his cousins were travelling around the region. He looked around to see familiar faces and expected to find someone who might be able to join him in his quest…then he spotted Kalel, "My little brother is on my team!"
"UH? Kalel?" Francis asked, "Just him?! But you need three members in a team…"
"Well…well…I will find another teammate! I just have to make some calls and you will see that by tomorrow, my team will be complete and we will begin our quest towards the championships! JUST WATCH, NERD!"
"OH YEAH?!"
"YES! So you just be ready to meet us at the championships to have your geeky butt beaten in front of the whole world. My team will be victorious and you'll be sent back home crying to your mom!"
"WHAT?!" Francis was losing it.
"Hey bro…I think it's time for us to leave" The Mezza interrupted.
"YOU'RE RIGHT! We have to get ready to start our journey, so let's go!" Francis exclaimed and boastfully waved Marcus goodbye. He also thanked the Peace for the party; he approached Pr. Pine before exiting, "Professor, we will stop by the labs tomorrow to register and sign up for the team league…"
"SURE! I'm happy you are doing this Francis…this is unexpected of you, but your parents and I will be proud and happy to see you participate!"
"Thanks, professor!"
"Same goes for you two, Johnny and Belen! Your mom will be so happy to know you are ready to help the Pokémon and our communities…"
"Thanks, professor…we will try our best…"
"Professor…" Francis timidly said, "I was also hoping you can help us with a PokeDEX since none of us have one…"
"Absolutely!"
"We also don't have a beginner Pokémon…is there a way you can help us with that too?"
"Of course! Come by my labs tomorrow morning and we can find you each a Pokémon partner. My ranch is home of hundreds of Pokémon and I'm sure a couple of them are eager to join trainers like you in order to become stronger!"
"THAT'S GREAT! We will see you tomorrow then! Thanks, and good night!" Francis and co. left the Peace's residence. The Mezza said their goodbyes and returned to their home. Francis and Josh did the same.
[Rio Town/King Residence/Sunday Morning]
Francis woke up early even though he isn't a morning person; he was excited and eager to start his Pokémon journey and encounter many great adventures, not only by himself but with his two best friends: Johnny and Belen. He got ready and all set. A military backpack, which used to belong to his grandpa, full and nicely packed with: potions, a first-aid kit, camping gear, a tent and sleeping bag, some Pokémon books, food and water, and extra clothes. He came downstairs when suddenly he heard Kassie talking to someone familiar thru the Pokémon Connect, a face-to-face communication app used by many Pokémon trainers and experts. Josh and Heidy, their 9-year-old niece, were happily eating breakfast and waiting for Francis.
"And that's why I am going on this trek to compete in the championships, mom and pop!" Kassie finished.
"That's wonderful news honey! We are proud of you!" Mr. & Mrs. King exclaimed.
"WHAT?! What are you talking about, Kassie?!" Francis popped in and asked in confusion and astonishment.
"Francis!" Kassie shouted, "Good morning!"
"Good morning big bro! You finally woke up!"
"Uncle Francis! Good morning!" Heidy said with a smile.
"Good morning sweetheart! How is it going, Francis?" Mr. and Mrs. King asked in delight and were happy to see their children and granddaughter well.
"Oh, hey! Good morning pop! Good morning mom!" Francis responded still intrigued about what Kassie was referring to, "What are you guys talking about?"
"You won't believe what happened big bro! Kassie is also entering the Team League!" Josh blurted out with enjoyment.
"That's right! My aunt is taking her Pokémon training and grooming seriously now." Heidy remarked.
"WHAT?" Francis said turning speechless and more puzzled than before. He then discovered backpacks on the furniture while surveying the house and also looking at the PokePAD screen, "What's going on? Where are you going?"
"Francis, well, after you left the party with your friends, Marcus approached me and kindly asked me to join his team…" Kassie delivered while trying to sound supportive of Francis.
"Say what? You're on HIS TEAM?!" Francis was shocked.
"As you probably know, Pauline, Marcus' older sister, is one of my BFF's; she kindly asked me to join her little brothers on their adventures…" Kassie shared, "Pauline has always been like a sister to me and I look up to her; I mean, she's a fashionista and an amazing pastry chef, two things I also want to accomplish to become…"
"U-hu…yeah…"
"She left the academy last year in order to accomplish her goals, study abroad, and train all over Fhranisa…I figured I will do the same since I've been eager to work on myself and my dreams, but I've been delaying and putting it aside because I didn't want to travel all alone and I didn't want to leave my little brothers and niece behind as well, but…but now I CAN!" Kassie concluded, "So, I WILL!"
"What? But what about my journey?!" Francis exclaimed, "You know I'm going to sign up my friends and I for the Team League today too! I am about to leave to the Professor's soon!"
"YOU ARE, KIDDO?!" Mr. King asked. "This is all unexpected, but lovely to hear!" Mrs. King shouted delighted.
"OH YEAH! Pop and Mom! That is something I wanted to talk to you about." Francis said looking at his parents thru the screen waiting for their approval and their blessing.
"What is it, Francis? Tell us!"
"Pop! Mom! I had decided to finally become a Pokémon trainer and try out for the Pokémon Team League!" Francis announced with conviction and pride.
"POKEMON TRAINER! That's great!" Mr. and Mrs. King replied, "We are so happy and proud of you son!"
"THANK YOU! But do you know anything about the new league?" Francis said and asked.
"Yeah, we told your sister early that all the members of the Pokémon Federation and Association got a conference call this morning; the instructions, requirements, and format of the Team League were all explained to us exactly this morning; we also got some emails and data-to-download in order to organize this amazing new championships accordingly…"
"WOW! That's DOPE!" Francis replied, "I want to study and learn as much as I can about Pokémon and the world, pop and mom, like YOU both…that's why I really want to do this! I'm also lucky I've got my two best friends joining me…"
"That's great son! I know you will make us both proud!"
"But if Kassie is also competing…who is going to look after Josh and Heidy?" Francis explained and thought about who will babysit his little bro and niece.
"About that…" Josh interrupted.
"Huh?"
"Since Kassie is leaving to fulfill her dreams and so are you, we got no other choice but to take care of Josh and Heidy ourselves!" Mr. and Mrs. King said.
"Really?"
"Your oldest sister is busy with so much work, from her job and the gym, but so is your brother-in-law; he's busy everywhere; they told us that they will come get Heidy as soon as they are free, but had asked us to have her with us in the meantime…"
"I see…" Francis was thinking.
"BUT all you have to do for us is bringing them here to us, at our job and work-home."
"Heidy is coming with me. I talked to Zara and she's relieved and glad that I will be taking care of Heidy until we get to pop and mom's…" Kassie expressed and instructed, "All YOU have to do is take Josh with you and bring him to our parents. I think is better that way; you boys will be ok."
"WHAT? You want me to bring Josh with me?" Francis asked in frustration, but understood the situation.
"YEAH BRO! Aren't you happy that I get to go with you and start this amazing journey! I can't wait!" Josh shouted with excitement; he then grabbed his backpack and put the dirty dishes away. "I'm ready whenever you are bro!"
Kassie looked at the time; she proceeded to grab her things as well and also her Pokémon Gatty, "Gatty! Come! We are going on a trek all over the region! Let's do our best!" Kassie then told her farewell to her parents, "It's getting late and Marcus and Kalel are waiting for us…"
"What? You are leaving now?" Francis asked with hastiness, "But I have yet to eat breakfast!"
"Your food is ready Francis! Just serve yourself, put the rest away, wash the dishes, and don't forget to lock up! We are off! Bye pop and mom! You will be seeing us soon!" Kassie waved goodbye to everyone, directed Heidy to leave, and left in a rush, "Francis, take care of Josh! Josh, make sure Francis doesn't do anything idiotic! BYE GUYS!"
"But…but…wait…for…us…" Francis saw his sister and niece leave.
"Bro! It's about to be 10 a.m."
"UH?" Francis looked at the clock.
"If we don't hurry, the professor will leave the labs in order to feed all the Pokémon in her estate and do her research…"
"That's right! We have yet to go to the professor's to get whatever else we need!" Francis remembered, "POP! MOM! It has been nice talking to you…"
"It's always nice to hear from you guys…we are so overwhelmed in happiness due to these amazing news and all of your attitudes towards following your dreams…"
"I'm going to get a PokeDEX and my own Pokémon from the Professor today…so, we will see you soon, okay?" Francis said while grabbing some breakfast.
"That's fine son! Please you two take care and call any of us whenever you need us!"
"We will…"
"Josh, listen to your brother and don't give him a hard time…Francis, be smart and responsible; you two be careful out there…again, call us if you need us. SEE YOU SOON BOYS!" Mr. and Mrs. King concluded. The call was done.
Francis was confused, desperate, and upset; he couldn't believe Marcus had the guts to get Kassie on his side and finally complete his team. After finishing his breakfast, he quickly washed the dishes, organized the area, grabbed his things and Josh, and locked up their home. They ran to the Mezza's residence in order to get Johnny and Belen and all leave together to the Professor's labs. Johnny and Belen spotted Francis and Josh; they have been waiting for them since Francis texted them as soon as he woke up. The Mezza, saying farewell to their sweet home, joined Francis and Josh and departed to the Pokémon Professor's labs.
TO BE CONTINUED…