Episode 201: The Journey Ends and Begins Again
A couple of weeks have passed since Sora and his friends have returned to Pallet Town. In the meantime, Sora had done his best to avoid the fangirls and saved by Yuuta. It was a normal routine for Sora and annoying for Kairi since they were obsessing for her boyfriend.
"Thanks for the save," Sora said.
"It's not a problem, Sora. Girls used to do that to me when I was your age," Yuuta said. That made Sora smile.
A few days had passed and Sora and Kairi were given eggs as gifts. Illima gave Kairi a pink, brown, and white egg. Kairi was given a white egg with a purplish top. Sora was given an orange egg with yellow spots and a brown egg with tannish spots.
"Look at these eggs. How long would it take for them to hatch?" Sora asked.
"Should take a few days to hatch," Illima said.
"Until then, it's best to keep them close," Kiawe added.
"Or maybe have Toucannon incubate the eggs for them to hatch faster," Sophocles suggested.
"I think it's better to do it the old fashioned way," Kairi said.
"She's right. We didn't need to rely on Toucannon's beak to do it, and we don't need to now," Mallow said.
"No we didn't," Lana added.
Sora and Kairi took good care of their eggs, keeping them warm and safe. A few more days came and went when the eggs had at last began to hatch.
"Guys! The eggs are hatching!" Sora shouted. The Alolan nine all made their way to witness the eggs to hatch. When the eggs have finished hatching, Sora ended up with a Mudbray and a Grubbin and Kairi has ended up with a Stufful and a Morelull.
"A Mudbray and a Grubbin for me," Sora said.
"And a Stufful and a Morelull for me. They are all so very cute," Kairi said.
The couple both held vacant Pokéballs for the newborn Pokémon and they flowed inside. Stars swirls around them to confirm the catch. Sora and Kairi felt proud of their latest additions.
"Thanks again for the eggs, you guys," Sora said.
"Anytime," Sophocles said.
"Consider them to be presents for the both of you," Hapu said.
"Yeah," Mina said.
"Just be sure you take very good care of them," Kiawe said.
"We will," Sora said. He picked up his newly hatched Grubbin, being careful not to get pinched. "Stick with me and you'll be the best Pokémon you can be." Grubbin pinches his nose the same way as one pinched Ventus before. "OUCH!" Grubbin lets go of Sora's nose and he holds it. "Ooh. I was so careful."
"You can try to be even more careful, Sora," Kairi said.
The Alolan nine all shared a laugh to Sora's dismay. Meanwhile in the Hoenn region, Jessie was determined to find a Pokémon of her own since she failed to capture Cacnea and chose James over her. Luckily there was that has caught her attention. It was a purplish snake-like Pokémon with golden "plates" on its body. Both of its fangs are red but one side of its face is light purple while the other side is a darker purplish color. Its eyes are also red and the also have gold "plates" on them. It scared away many of the smaller Pokémon and it stole all of the food.
"Oh wow! What a magnificent Pokémon that is!" Jessie beamed. James and Meowth turned to see what she was talking about.
"You mean you want that thing?!" Meowth exclaimed.
"Yes I do! Is that a problem, Meowth?" Jessie hissed at the scratch cat Pokémon.
"And difference does it make if I do?" Meowth asked. Jessie glares at Meowth before she sets her attention to James.
"James, what kind of Pokémon is that?" Jessie asked.
"Let me see," James said, accessing his ipad and he looked it up. "Here it is. This Pokémon is a Seviper. It is known as the Fang Snake Pokémon and it's a Poison Type Pokémon."
"A Seviper?! It is the perfect Pokémon for me!" Jessie beamed.
"For a change, I'm with her. Since it is a snake Pokémon like Ekans and Arbok and Seviper could be extra muscle," Meowth said. Jessie agreed and grabs Meowth.
"Glad you're on board, and you just volunteered. Now get in there!" Jessie said, tossing Meowth to battle Seviper. The fang snake Pokémon looks right at Meowth as it stops eating.
"Okay, ya legless lizard, don't gimmie any trouble or I'll make a scratching post out of ya!" Meowth warned Seviper. Instead of being scared off, Seviper smacks Meowth with its bladed tail and sends Meowth flying back at Jessie. "Is that all ya got?" Meowth went back to Seviper, but unfortunately it wasn't since Seviper wrapped its tail around Meowth, making him suffocate. Meowth wheezed, "You're not so tough. I can take it." Meowth was getting more than he bargained for. "Okay, that's enough." Seviper tosses Meowth back to Jessie and smacks into her. When Meowth hits Jessie again, a riceball fell out.
"Oh no! My spare riceball!" Jessie exclaimed. James and Meowth were surprised and peeved at her for hoarding food for herself.
"You had a spare riceball and you were holding out on us?!" James exclaimed.
"What was that about 'all for one and one for all?'" Meowth asked.
"It's all for one and all for me," Jessie stated. Jessie raced to the raceball, but she was too late to get to it since Seviper has eaten it. Jessie gasped when she saw the riceball get eaten. "Hey! That was mine!" Jessie got her hair bitten in half. James and Meowth became afraid, no longer caring about the riceball. Seviper realized what it bit and spat the hair out. "My hair! My beautiful hair!" She growls in rage. "You have made a very big mistake, Seviper!" The wild Seviper winced and tried to get away when she began to beat Seviper senseless. Once the fang snake Pokémon was unconscious, she was about to beat Seviper more when James stopped her. "Hey! Let me go!"
"You were going to capture Seviper, not kill it," James reminded her. Jessie remembered that was the plan.
"Oh yeah," Jessie said, getting a Pokéball out and throwing it at the unconscious Seviper and it flows inside. The Pokéball wobbles around and around until stars swirls around the Pokéball, confirming the catch. "Yay! Seviper is as good as mine!"
"Now that we have we need, we can carry on with our mission," Meowth said.
"Right. Find any activity on Team Magma and Team Aqua and report to the boss on the latest find," James said.
With that said, Team Rocket went about with their mission to find Team Magma or Team Aqua and spy on them.
Back in Pallet Town, Sora and Kairi were off to go on their date when they were approached by Lea.
"Good thing I found you two!" Lea said, panting.
"Lea, come on. Kairi and I were just about to go out for dinner," Sora said.
"Sorry Sora, but the professor sent me to get you two. Your other buddies are already there," Lea explained. "Also, you're gonna need Pikachu and Togepi to come along too." Sora and Kairi looked at each other.
"Why?" Kairi asked.
"Don't know. The professor just told me to fetch you," Lea said. The couple didn't question it and they got Pikachu and Togepi from their homes and they went with him to hear what Professor Oak had to say. WHen they got there, they found Professors Kukui and Burnet were right there with the Alolan nine. "I brought them like you asked me to."
"Wonderful. Thank you, Lea," Professor Oak said. He walked up to both Sora and Kairi. "I hope you can forgive me for interuppting your outing, but I feel that you two should hear what Professor Kukui has to say."
"First, there is something we would like to announce," Professor Burnet announced. Everyone turned to her. "I'm pregnant." Sora, Kairi, and the Alolan nine were stunned to hear her announce it.
"Pregnant?!" Lillie exclaimed.
"Congratulations, professor," Mallow said.
"This is wonderful news!" Lana said.
"Thank you, but her preegnacy isn't the reason I have called you all here," Professor Kukui said. The group all listened to hear what he had to say. "I have called you all here to announce that I am setting up a Pokémon League in the Alola region." The group were astounded by this sudden burst of information.
"A Pokémon League for Alola?" Sora asked.
"Yes. I have called all of you to share this bit of news for you. I have proposed my idea to the Island Kahunas and they have approved," Professor Kukui said.
"That is good news," Acerola said.
"So, is that why you called us here?" Hapu asked.
"That's right, Hapu. And I am establishing Pokémon Gyms for Alola. And I am need for Gym Leaders. Molayne, Kahili, Ryuki, and Plumeria are already on board as Gym Leaders," Professor Kukui said. "And that's where you come in." The Alolan nine were stunned to hear he was recruiting them.
"You mean, you're calling on us?" Kiawe asked.
"Of course. You don't need to answer right away and take all the time you need to think it over. The offer is standing if that's what you want," Professor Kukui said. Lillie looked over to her friends and was worried about their well-being. Sora and Kairi also shared Lillie's worries. Eight of the Alolan nine were sitting outside of the lab, wondering if they should go through with it.
"I can't believe it. Professor Kukui is setting up a Pokémon League and we're asked to be the very first Gym Leaders," Sophocles said.
"Do you think we should go with it?" Acerola asked.
"I really don't know," Mina said.
"Me neither. I mean, that means we will have to go home," Lana said, starting to cry.
"I don't wanna go home yet. Not after all the travelling we did in Johto," Mallow said.
"I don't either, because I was just getting adjusted with Kairi's family," Hapu said.
"Maybe, we don't want to go because we're just so adjusted here," Illima said.
"That and it's because of Sora and Kairi. Riku, Gladion, and Hau will probably have their own opinion about this," Kiawe said.
"Do you think they know yet?" Sophocles asked.
"I don't doubt it, but it seems likely," Illima said.
"Yeah," Mina agreed.
"And what about Sora and Kairi? Do you think they will miss us when we're gone? And not them, but also Ven, Terra, and Aqua," Lana said.
"I know I'm going to miss them," Mallow said.
"And they'll miss you too," Sora said, coming up behind them. "Sorry to eavesdrop, but I was just looking for you guys."
"How much did you hear, Sora?" Kiawe asked.
"All of it," Sora said. "Are you guys guys even stoked about having a Pokémon League of your own? I mean, it's not everyday something like that is delievered on your doorstep."
"True, it's not. We're just not sure if we should accept it," Illima said.
"I understand. But what about all of your families? I mean, wouldn't it be nice to see them again after so long?" Sora asked. Illima, Mallow, Kiawe, Lana, Sophocles, Mina, Acerola, and Hapu all looked at each other and they all knew was right. It would be nice to see them again.
"He's right. I do want to see Sarah and Harper again. They can get on my nerves sometimes, but I still love them," Lana said.
"And I did promise to attend my brother's wedding," Mallow said.
"And I know my family is going to need some help back on the farm," Kiawe said.
They all agreed with each other since they all had families back home and it would be wrong to stay away from home just becuase of their selfish desires.
"Sora is right. We should consider it," Illima said.
"Now that you think about it, I am feeling a little homesick," Sophocles said.
"Me too," Mina said.
Over to Kairi and Lillie, they sat on the couch to talk.
"Are you worried about Illima and the others, Lillie?" Kairi asked.
"I would be lying if I said I wasn't. Even though the Alola region never had a Pokémon League before, it feels like it's too soon," Lillie said.
"And I thought they would be happy that they were finally getting one," Kairi said.
"Toge, Toge," Togepi chirped.
"I did too," Lillie said.
"What about you, Lillie? What do you want to do?" Kairi asked. The blonde sighed as she shook her head.
"To be honest, I don't know," Lillie said. "I have been with you, Sora, and everyone else for so long, I never thought about anything else after. I guess there would be a time we would all have to return home at some point. " Kairi knew Lillie was right and she thought the same thing about if her grandmother didn't move from Viridian City to Pallet Town.
"Lillie, I have a question to ask you and you don't have to answer if you don't want to," Kairi assured her friend. The blonde turned to her. "Do you want to go home or not?" Lillie gave another sigh.
"There were times I just wanted to go home to my parents and to my brother. I mean, seeing you with your parents again after a long time kinda rubbed some salt on my wounds and made me think of my parents; especially my father," Lillie said. "I'm certain Gladion is probably starting on his own journey by now and the same for Hau. I can only hope for the best for the both of them. Also for you, Sora, Riku, Illima, Kiawe, and the rest." Kairi was happy to hear Lillie say something nice like wishing her friends luck. Kairi was glad to have a friend like Lillie. "And when I do choose to go on home, I want you to know that you're one of the greatest friends I have ever made, Kairi."
"I was thinking the exact same thing about you, Lillie. I'm also thinking the same thing for Illima, Kiawe, Mallow, Lana, Mina, Sophocles, Acerola, Mina, and Hapu. And I couldn't ask for any better friends than you," Kairi said. Lillie's eyes filled with tears as she felt happy.
"Kairi," Lillie sobbed. She and Kairi shared a hug as the blonde had let out a cry. Kairi's eyes filled with tears as well. Lillie kept on crying and crying.
"It's okay, Lillie. It's okay," Kairi said.
Kairi and Lillie separated from each other as Lillie took out a handkerchief and used it to wipe away her tears. The rest of the Alolan nine re-entered the lab along with Sora as Kairi and Lillie came in from behind. Professor Kukui smiled.
"So, have you all made up your minds?" Professor Kukui asked. The Alolan nine all looked at each other and nodded.
"We have," Kiawe said.
"We have decided to accept the offer and become Alola's very first Gym Leaders along with Kahili, Plumeria, Molayne, and Ryuki," Illima said boldly. Professor Kukui has smiled.
"We're not gonna lie, we kinda had our doubts at first and we did some thinking," Hapu said.
"And we all thought about our families and we knew it was gonna be a matter of time before we head back home to Alola," Mallow said.
"So, we felt kinda homesick," Acerola said.
"Yeah," Mina said.
Professor Kukui smiled as he felt pride for his former students.
"I am glad to hear it. All of you have grown up so much, I hardly recognize any of you. Your journeys have taught you more than I can ever hoped. I am proud of each and every one of you," Professor Kukui said, before he sets his attention to Sora. "And I am grateful to you for teaching them that, Sora." Sora was caught off guard by his statement.
"Really? I was just starting out when Kairi and I met them," Sora pointed out.
"Maybe so. They may have taught you some things, but you and Kairi have taught them as well. Even when they had already graduated. And their families are proud that they have such good friends," Professor Kukui said. He ruffled Sora's spiky hair. "You almost remind me of me when I was just your age. And I hope my kid will be just like you too." Sora felt touched to the young professor say that to him.
"Thanks professor," Sora said. "That means a lot." Professor Kukui turned to Lillie.
"How about you, Lillie? What are you going to do?" Professor Kukui asked.
"I was thinking of heading home as well. I mean, it has been a while since I have mother and father since returning home for a short time. And I know father and Hobs probably miss me the same way I miss them," Lillie said. Professor Kukui smiled.
"I understand, Lillie," Professor Kukui said. "There's no rush going back yet, so I was thinking we could have a party to celebrate this occasion. And it'll give you kids a chance to spend some time together before we go." Sora, Kairi, and the Alolan nine all liked that plan.
"I can go with that," Kiawe said.
"Also, I have something I want to do before we get to the party," Lillie proposed. Everyone all looked at her.
"What?" Kairi asked. Lillie turned to Kairi.
"I was wondering if you and I could have a one-on-one battle. My Snowy against your Togepi. Your Togepi helped you out in your battle with Crimson and I don't doubt how much stronger Togepi has gotten since then. Only if that's you want," Lillie said. Kairi smiled and she held out her hand.
"I can take you up on that offer, Lillie," Kairi accepted the challenge. Both girls stepped outside to the ranch for their battle. Togepi and Snowy looked at each other as they were ready. All of Sora's and Kairi's Pokémon were watching and waiting for the battle to begin. Sora, Pikachu, and the Alolan nine were watching the battle about to begin and Professor Kukui has volunteered to act as the referee for the battle.
"Alright! The battle between Kairi and Lillie is about to begin! Both trainers will be using one Pokémon each! Lillie will using her Vulpix and Kairi will be using her Togepi! The battle will be over if either Pokémon is unable to continue battling! Now begin!" Professor Kukui proclaimed.
"Snowy! Use Powder Snow!" Lillie ordered. Snowy fired Powder Snow right at Togepi, but Kairi wasn't worried.
"Togepi! Safeguard!" Kairi ordered. Togepi formed a protective barrier and it blocks Powder Snow. "Now use Swift!" Togepi fires Swift and it strikes Snowy on the mark.
"Snowy! Use Ice Beam!" Lillie ordered. Snowy fired Ice Beam, hoping it would freeze Togepi.
"Dodge and use another Swift!" Kairi ordered. Togepi avoids Ice Beam as it misses. Togepi fires Swift again and it hits Snowy on the mark. "Now use Metronome!" Togepi waves his little arms back and forth. Lillie knew something is bound to happen with Metronome.
"Snowy! Powder Snow!" Lillie ordered. Snowy fired Powder Snowy again. Togepi's arms glows with a blue aura and it turns into Fire Spin. It melts Snowy's attack and traps the white fox Pokémon in the vortex. Lillie knew Snowy is vulnerable to Fire Type attacks since being an Ice Type.
"Way to go, Togepi!" Kairi cheered for her Pokémon.
"Toge," Togepi chirped. "Toge?" Togepi felt strange and then suddenly Togepi began to evolve. Everyone was astounded by the sight, especially Kairi. All of Sora's and Kairi's Pokémon were amazed and especially Pikachu. Togepi had evolved into a Togetic. "Togepi. You evolved. You're a Togetic."
"Togetic," the newly evolved Togetic chirped. Kairi felt proud of her first Pokémon for evolving. At the same time, Kairi felt a little sad since she knew Togetic wasn't a baby anymore.
"Let's give it everything you have, Togetic," Kairi said. Togetic nodded. "Togetic! Use Fairy Wind!" Togetic took flight for the first time and flapped his wings, creating a glittering pink gust of wind. "Now use Aerial Ace!" Togetic flew and did a flip before he darted down at Snowy and lands a perfect hit. Lillie was stunned at the sight.
"Snowy!" Lillie gasped.
"Now use Dazzling Gleam!" Kairi ordered. Togetic forms a rainbow orb and it turns into a rainbow beam as it heads towards Snowy and lands a hit. Snowy had fallen to the ground beaten. Professor Kukui raises his hand.
"Snowy is unable to battle! Togetic wins! The match goes to Kairi!" Professor Kukui announced. Togetic flies back to Kairi as she smiles and hugs her newly evolved Pokémon.
"I am so very proud of you, Togetic. I knew all that training we did would pay off. I just wasn't expecting you to evolve. I was kinda hoping you would stay that way forever since you're cute," Kairi said. "But I guess there would be a point you would have to evolve either I wanted you to or not." Togetic hugs Kairi once more. Kairi's memories of the egg holding her first Pokémon runs through her mind as she felt happiness having her very first Pokémon and all the times she had spent since Togetic was a Togepi. "I don't care if you're a Togepi or a Togetic, because you're always be my little baby. And I will love you all the same." Togetic smiled having to hear how accepted he is.
Night came as Sora, Kairi, their families, the professors, Lea, Isa, the Alolan nine and their Pokémon all celebrated the night, spending time eating and dancing and sharing all sorts of memories of their adventures.
"Remember when Sora had a hard time trying to ride on Tauros? That was pretty funny," Sophocles said.
"It sure was. What about the time Sora had to go through that police Pokémon exercise he did?" Kiawe asked.
"I remember how tired he was. He was so tired, he could hardly stand on his feet," Lana said.
Everyone all shared other memories of their journeys together. They remembered all of the good times and the bad times. They even remembered all the people they met along the way. Not just the people, but so many Pokémon as well. Lea and Isa were no exception. As the party was drawing into a close, they decided to have a group photo to remember the last night they would be together. Delia has volunteered to take the picture.
"Okay everyone! Is everyone ready?" Delia asked. Sora, Kairi, Pikachu, Togetic, the Pichu, the couples' other Pokémon joined by the pink Butterfree with Sora's Butterfree and along with the Alolan nine and their Pokémon were all gathered around.
"We're ready, mom," Sora said.
"Okay everyone. Big smiles and say cheese!" Delia said.
"CHEESE!" Sora, Kairi, and the Alolan nine all said at once. When the flash went off, the photo taken had them all in it as a successful picture.
"Wonderful job, everyone!" Delia beamed.
When the party has concluded, they all went down to spend the last night in their houses, but along the way, Kairi had something she wanted to give them.
"Before we all head back, I have something I wanna share with all of you," Kairi said. The Alolan nine were curious to see what she had in mind.
"What is it, Kairi?" Lillie asked. She took out nine neckalces that all resembles stars and they were all different colors. White, cyan, green, orange, blue, yellow, dark purple, pink, and brown.
"Are they stars?" Sophocles asked.
"They are," Kairi said. "And there's one for the each of you." Kairi handed them over to them. "I was going to wait until we were seeing you off, but I couldn't wait to gve them to you now." Lillie was given the cyan star, Illima was given the white star, Mallow was given the green star, Kiawe was given the orange star, Lana was given the blue star, Sophocles was given the yellow star, Mina was given the pink star, Acerola was given the dark purple star, and Hapu was given the brown star. "I hope you like them."
"These are wonderful," Illima said.
"And they're very pretty," Lana said.
"What are they?" Mina asked.
"Aqua taught me to make them before. She called them a Wayfinder. It is said that a Wayfinder is a symbol of an unbreakable connection. So no matter where we are, we're never truly apart. And one day, we would find our way to one another someday. That's what Aqua said to me," Kairi said.
"So cool," Sophocles said.
"No wonder they're called Wayfinders," Mallow said.
"It may not be a ghost story, but I like it," Acerola said.
"Me too," Lillie said as she looked at hers.
"And that reminds me," Kairi said, taking one out for Sora and one for her. Sora's is red and Kairi's is gold. "One for you, Sora." Sora takes his.
"Kairi. It's beautiful," Sora said.
"Glad you like it, Sora," Kairi said. "So, these eleven stars will be the symbol of our friendship. No matter where we are, just know we will always find our way back. We'll always be in each other's hearts, and nothing will ever change it." Sora and the Alolan nine all smiled as they all looked at their Wayfinders. They all continued on to their houses for their last night together.
On the very next morning, the couple and Pikachu have come to see their friends off for home with Professor Kukui and Professor Burnet standing with them.
"I am so going to miss you guys," Sophocles cried.
"Me too," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"It just won't be the same without you two, but thanks for everything," Lana said.
"Just promise us that you'll do your best as Gym Leaders," Kairi said.
"We promise," Kiawe said.
"Just promise us that you'll always be together," Mallow said.
"We promise," Sora and Kairi both said.
"And promise us that you'll keep doing your best as Pokémon trainers," Professor Kukui said.
"And that is a promise," Sora said.
"And that is one we will always keep," Kairi said.
"Thank you for everything, Sora and Kairi. I will always be proud to call you my friends," Illima said.
"Me too. And I'll make sure the recipes you, Sora's mom, your mom, and your grandma gave me will be put to good use," Mallow said.
"And I'll be sure to let in a good word for you with Molayne," Sophocles said.
"And for Sarah and Harper," Lana said.
"And I'll make twin paintings and send it to you when I get done," Mina said.
"I'll do my best to fix up some sea-salt ice cream from my families milk," Kiawe said.
"I'll tell Nanu you said hi," Acerola said.
"I'll do that for my grandpa too," Hapu said.
"I'll make sure Gladion gets your regards too," Lillie said.
"Thanks you guys," Sora said. "Take are of yourselves."
"And you take care of each other," Kiawe said.
"The 11:30 flight to Mele Mele Island is about to depart! Please board iimmediately to all ticket holders for this flight!" The speaker said.
"That would be us," Professor Burnet said.
"You're right, hun. Say goodbye, everyone," Professor Kukui said.
"Goodbye Sora. Goodbye Kairi," the Alolan nine said.
"It's not goodbye," Sora stated.
"We will meet again someday," Kairi added.
"Pika," Pikachu said.
The Alolan nine took one last look at the couple and they took off. The couple stepped outside and watched the plane heading for the Alola region carries their friends home while holding hands.
"I know they haven't been gone for an hour, but I already miss them," Sora said with a tear sliding down his face.
"Me too," Kairi said also with a tear sliding down.
Music starts playing as the couple have began to walk back home. Memories of their first meeting right to their trip to Lavender Town right up to the Johto Pokémon League went through their minds and they did not let go of each other's hands
Goodbye
But now that's such a hard thing to say
Now it's time to let go
But I never thought I'd feel this way
Promise not to be sad
But we both knew I was lying
Gotta fight back the tears
'Cause, can't let you see me crying
You're more than just my best friend
What makes me Misty most of all
In our final curtain call
Is knowing that I won't see you again
The music stops playing as they came across a tall, fat man with fair skin, dark eyes, short and slightly wavy brown hair, and a squarish face with a beard. He wears a navy blue T-shirt under a white lab coat, khaki shorts with a black belt, and tan sandals on his feet. He was walking around Pallet Town and he looks around.
"Confound it, now I have lost my way," the man said. The couple went up to him.
"Um, excuse us," Sora said. The man turned to them. "Are you lost?"
"Actually, I was hoping if you two kids could help me out. I'm on my way to see Professor Oak's lab and I seem to lost the way I was going, so I was wondering if you know the way?" The man asked.
"Would it help if we just show you the way, sir?" Kairi offered.
"Oh, I don't want you two to go through that kind of bother for me," the man said.
"We know how to get there and we both know Professor Oak personally," Sora said.
"Pika, Pika," Pikachu said.
"Well, if you insist, then I can take you up on the kind offer. My name is Professor Birch by the way. And you would be?" Professor Birch asked.
"I'm Sora and this is my girlfriend Kairi," Sora introduced.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"It's nice to meet you," Kairi said.
"The same to you," Professor Birch said. He took a look at Sora's Pikachu. "I don't mean to pry, but are you Pokémon trainers?"
"Not really. And yeah, me and Kairi are trainers," Sora said.
"I thought so, since you have a Pikachu with you and since you know Professor Oak," Professor Birch said.
"Come on. We'll lead the way," Sora said.
"Pika," Pikachu said.
The couple lead the professor to Professor Oak's lab. When they reached the place, Professor Oak was going over some research when he heard a knock on the door.
"Oh bother! I just hope it's not one of Gengar's pratical jokes. I better go see who that is just so I wouldn't be rude," Professor Oak said. "I'm coming!" He called out. He went over to the door, but making sure there wasn't any booby traps before opening the door. He opened it to see Sora and Kairi standing outside along with Professor Birch. "Ah, Sora and Kairi. How wonder as always to see you. I trust your friends have made it to the airport safely."
"They did, professor," Kairi said.
"But that's not why we're here," Sora said.
"These two kids were just showing me the way here," Professor Birch said.
"Ah, Professor Birch. What perfect timing! I was begninning to think you weren't going to come. I hope I haven't inconvenienced you into pulling you away from the middle of your research," Professor Oak said.
"Not at all. My assistances in my lab are putting it on hold until I get back," Professor Birch assured him. "And I have the notes you asked me to bring you. We can look over them later if you like."
"I'm already looking forward to it," Professor Oak said. He sets his attention to Sora and Kairi. "I'm hoping if you would like to join us for a bit. We have much to talk about."
"Um, okay professor," Sora said.
"I don't mind," Kairi said.
The couple had entered the lab and sat down to talk.
"Professor Birch is a Pokémon researcher who lives in Littleroot Town located in the Hoenn region. I called him here for reseach discussions, but since you're here, I thought it would be a good idea to talk," Professor Oak said.
"Sure," Sora said.
"Pika," Pikachu said.
The professors have spoke to Sora and Kairi about the land of Hoenn and what it has to offer. Sora became interested and Kairi knew there was going to be another journey about to begin. And also more Gyms to battle in.
"The Hoenn region. Sounds like a cool place," Sora said.
"I was hoping you would like that, Sora. In fact, I have a son who is about to recieve his very first Pokémon, but I promised himone as soon as I got back. And if you're interested, I can take you back with me just so you can see for yourself," Professor Birch offered.
"That sounds awesome, professor," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"Well, since you may go down to the Hoenn region, I have prepared a brand new Pokédex you can use," Professor Oak said, giving him the new Pokédex. It was slightly different from the ones Sora had before. "It should work the same way as before. Once you have reached your limit of six, you can choose to keep the newly caught Pokémon in exchange for one in your possesion or have it sent here. It should work for Kairi, unless you would rather have your own if you like."
"I don't have a problem sharing it with Sora, professor. Also, I would have to talk to my family about it first," Kairi said.
"The same with my mom. I'm sure our families would be on board for it," Sora said.
"That would be a good idea to talk to your families first," Professor Oak said.
The couple went down to their homes as Kairi's family was in the Ketchum house to discuss their imminent journey.
"Oh Sora, I knew you were going to spread your wings and fly again," Delia said.
"And just after your journey in Johto," Mirei said.
"Glad you're on board with us," Sora said.
"We were just worried you would just say no about it," Kairi said.
"Dear, you do not need a stamp of approval from us. You only need to follow your hearts," Kairi's grandmother said.
"Your grandmother is right, Kairi. You two have been through so much from day one and I know you'll do the same now," Yuuta said.
"Also, someone has to take care of my Sora when I'm not around," Delia said, making Sora blush.
"Mom," Sora said embarrassed. Kairi giggled.
"But before you go, you're going to need some more suitable traveling clothes since the ones you're wearing seems to be a little too small for you," Delia said, taking out a small box. Sora took the box and went up stairs to his room to try them on. After a few minutes, Sora came down wearing a new outfit, while still wearing his crown necklace. black v-neck t-shirt with a white x across the stomach, red shorts that are black below the knee with both built-in pockets and external pockets, and a blue belt. His new shoes are similar, but the straps are white, the soles are blue, and the ankle of the shoe is black. He also has new fingerless gloves which are black in color and have a single yellow strap. Kairi, Delia, Mirei, and Kairi's grandmother were quite impressed by Sora's new appearence.
"Look out you, Sora," Delia said.
"You look very dashing," Kairi's grandmother said.
"Very," Mirei agreed.
"You look very good, Sora," Kairi complimented. Sora couldn't help but blush.
"Pika, Pika!" Pikachu said.
"Thanks buddy. That means a lot," Sora said, patted on his head.
"Pi," Pikachu said.
On the very next day, Sora had stood outside his house as Kairi also wore a new outfit. Kairi wore a shin-length pale pink dress and a red button-up bolero jacket. She also wore a new pair of pink sandals. Sora was captivated by Kairi's new appearence.
"So Sora. What do you think?" Kairi asked.
"You look very beautiful, Kairi," Sora said. Kairi blushed at the compliment.
"Thank you, Sora," Kairi said. She takes him by th arm. They head down to Professor Oak's lab to meet with Professor Birch. Professor Oak, Lea, and Isa are with him as well waiting for Sora and Kairi to show up. Upon arriving, Lea and Isa quickly took notice of their new clothes.
"Nice duds, lovebirds," Isa said.
"I take it that you'll be on your way to the Hoenn region with Professor Birch?" Professor Oak asked.
"We are. It turns out our families were okay with it," Sora said.
"And the reason for it is because they'll need me to keep a watchful eye on Sora," Kairi said.
"I thought as much," Professor Oak said.
"Also, Kairi and I have been talking," Sora stated. Professor Oak wanted to hear what Sora has to say
"Really? What were you talking about?" Professor Oak asked.
"We decided to leave all of our Pokémon here since we're heading off to a new region and use the ones we catch there. And we'll call them whenever we need them," Sora said.
"The only exceptions will be Sora's Mudbray and Grubbin and my Stufful and Morelull since they'll need some battling experience," Kairi said.
"That would make sense since Gary had already departed for Sandgem Town and left all of his Pokémon behind except for his Blastoise, his Electivire, and his Umbreon as soon as the Johoto Pokémon League tournament has concluded. Also your young Pokémon need the experience to grow," Professor Oak. "Oh, Sora, did you see him off?"
"I did actually," Sora said.
(Flashback, it was a couple of days after getting back home)
As soon as Gary had returned to Pallet Town, he began to pack his things to head for Sandgem Town to learn from Professor Rowan. Gary's mother was in tears having to see her son leave again. He came down stairs wearing a white lab coat.
"Oh, loook at you, Gary. Following in your grandfather's footsteps. I couldn't be even more proud of you," Gary's mom said.
"I am going to miss you though," Gary said.
"Me too. I hope you don't mind, but I have packed you a sandwich just in case you get hungry since it's a long trip to the Sinnoh region," Gary's mom said, handing him his lunchbox.
"Thanks mom," Gary said. Just when he opened the door, he sees Sora standing outside about to knock. "Sora?" Sora chuckles nervously.
"Good timing or bad timing?" Sora asked sheepishly.
"A little of both actually. Anyway, why are you here?" Gary asked.
"Just wanted to see you off. And before I do, I thought I give you something," Sora said, taking out his half of the Pokéball he and Gary fought over when they were fishing. Gary was surprised to see it again after so long.
"You still kept it?" Gary asked.
"Kept it as a keepsake," Sora said. Gary dug through his pockets and pulled out the other half, it is the top of the old Pokéball.
"That's the same reason why I kept this one," Gary said. Sora took the top half and he placed it on top of the other half, fixing it completely.
"There," Sora said. He hands it to Gary. "Here Gary."
"Why are you giving it to me? You should have it," Gary said.
"I want you to have it. Consider it a going away present. And it might bring you good luck; not that you need it," Sora said. Gary could only laugh as he accepts his gift.
"You're right, I won't need luck, but I'll take it," Gary said. "And thanks."
"Anytime," Sora said.
(The flashback ends to the present)
Sora and Kairi all stood with all of their other Pokémon and they were a saddened to see them leave without them.
"I know it's hard to leave you behind, but I promise I'll call upon you when I need you," Sora said.
"Me too. Just be sure that you all be good and do whatever Professor Oak, Le, and Isa tell you, alright?" Kairi asked.
All of their Pokémon nodded to acknowledge them. Before they departed to the Hoenn region, they made their way to their houses to say goodbye to their families. The Pichu were going to be staying with Kairi's family since Mirei thought of adopting them as pets and since they tend to get in Mr. Mime's way when he's doing his chores.
"Well, here we go again," Sora said.
"Take care of each other out there," Yuuta said.
"And be careful," Delia added.
"We will," Sora said.
"I assure you, I'll see to it that they get there safely," Professor Birch assured the families.
"We appreciate it, professor," Mirei said. Mirei and Delia went up to their kids and hugged them tight and the couple hugged their mothers back. Kairi then hugged her father and then her grandmother.
With the goodbyes complete, they went with Professor Birch to Vermilion City to catch a boat bound to the Hoenn region. When they arrived, the boarded the ship and off to Hoenn they went.
"Next stop, the Hoenn region," Sora said.
"Pi, Pikachu," Pikachu said.
And there you have it, Sora and Kairi have began their brand new journey into a whole new region, but what sorts of adventures awaits them on the way? What kinds of Pokémon could they encounter? And who are Team Magma and Team Aqua? Many more answers to come as we process further.