(A/N: Hey, sorry about the long wait. I've been having some computer trouble but now everything's good.)
Chapter 3: An Adventure Begins
On the way home, Matt didn't really say much, and Raiden was a bit concerned. "Raichu?" he asked.
"Oh, it's nothing Raiden," Matt said. "Just have some things on my mind, that's all."
Raiden just gave him a look. "Rai rai," he said.
"What about her?" Matt asked. Obviously Raiden was asking about Kari.
Raiden then smiled. "Rai raichu," he then said.
"What? I don't like her like that!" Matt quickly said. "And for your information, I'm only having dinner with her because I'm a good friend." But Raiden only smirked at him.
Once they finally got home, Matt went inside and plopped himself on the couch, with Raiden on his shoulder. "Hi honey," his mom said, who was in the kitchen. "How was school?"
"Same as usual," Matt said. "But it ended on a good note." He then looked to Raiden and winked.
"Well, that's good," his mom said. "I see Empoleon has gone on a little binge again."
"Yeah, I guess some things never change," Matt said, laughing. "Hmm, that reminds me." He then called out both Empoleon and Lucario. "Hey Empoleon," he then said, pulling out a boxes of Nutri-Grain bars. "I got something new for you." He then took out one of the bars and gave it to Empoleon. He tasted it, and his eyes lit up with happiness as he gobbled the rest of it down. Matt sweatdropped. "Guess we're gonna have to switch from Fig Newtons to Nutri-Grain Bars."
"So Matt, I heard news from Kari's mother," his mom said, smiling. "Apparently you have plans tomorrow night."
Matt could feel his face heat up. "That's right," he said. "But it's nothing like that. We're just going as friends."
"Oh I see," his mom said, obviously not convinced. "You know, we both think that you and Kari would make a good couple."
"Umm, right mom," Matt said. "I think I'm gonna go to my room now." He then ran upstairs, while his mother was trying not to burst out laughing.
When Kari got home, she realized she had this weird feeling inside of her, one she had never really experienced before. Was it... attraction? "No," she thought. "Matt and I are just friends. Sure, we've known each other for a long time, but that doesn't mean anything." And yet, she was feeling a bit of doubt.
Once she went inside, she saw that her mom was still at work, as usual. However, she did see that Glameow was in the kitchen. Turning on the radio, she sat down on the couch in the living room. "What a day," she said.
"Meow?" Glameow asked.
"Oh you know, full of surprises as usual," she said. "Plus tomorrow now I'm gonna be going out to dinner with Matt."
Glameow smiled. She knew Matt pretty well, mostly because he had been over to the house plenty of times. "Meow?"
"What? No it's not a date!" Kari stated. "Matt was the one who asked me, but it's nothing like that. Friends go out to dinner too you know."
Glameow just smiled while shaking her head slightly. She knew very well that Kari was attracted to him. Matt seemed to have that kind of personality most people liked. She knew it would only be a matter of time before they both admitted it.
"Wish I hadn't called Mom about it," Kari said. She then laughed. "She probably told Matt's mother and now she's going to embarrass him about it. Poor Matt."
All of a sudden, the radio changed to a new song. The song was "Daydream" by The Wallace Collection. "Oh my God!" she almost screamed. "I love this song." She then smiled. "I remember Mom telling me that this was the song she and Dad had danced to at their wedding. I think I might have the same one once I get married."
She then felt herself blushing, although she wasn't sure why.
After about half an hour, Matt and his Pokemon found themselves in the backyard training as usual. "Alright Empoleon, use Hydro Pump!" Matt said. "And Raiden, use Iron Tail!"
Empoleon shot out a huge jet of water, aimed at Raiden. Raiden then jumped into the air, his tail glowing and was able to cut right through the jet and hit Empoleon directly, although he wasn't hurt that much.
"Alright, good job both of you!" Matt said. He then looked over and saw that Lucario was meditating. "Lucario's got the right idea," he then said. He and the rest of them went over next to Lucario and got in the same position. "Meditation is the best way of relaxing," he said with his eyes closed, his Pokemon doing the same. "It helps relax the mind, and also gets rid of stress. If any of us are stressed, it'll mess us up in a battle."
Meanwhile, his mother was staring at them out of the window. "Ever since Riolu evolved into Lucario, Matt has really gotten into that whole meditation thing," she thought. She then laughed slightly. "He really has a complex system of training, but at least he's taking good care of his Pokemon."
After about ten minutes, Matt then opened his eyes. "Alright, that'll be enough for today." He then stood up and his Pokemon stared at him. "Good day of training. Now, we have about another week before we start off on our journey. We'll be sure to meet some barriers on the road, but we'll be able to prevail. I guess I should also say that we might acquire some new friends on the way. So, I want all of you to know no matter what happens, we stick as a team, got it?" His Pokemon nodded. He then smiled. "Good. Now, it's starting to hit around dinnertime, and we all know that we love Mom's cooking."
However, he wasn't able to say more as the others rushed inside, leaving him in the dust. "So much for us being a team," he thought as he went back inside.
"I guess your Pokemon must love my cooking more than you do now, Matt," his mom said, smiling.
"Well, we'll be on our way in about a week, so I guess they want as much as they can get," Matt said, laughing.
"So, you're really going through with this then?" his mom asked.
"Mom, we've been over this already," Matt said. "Yes, it's been my dream ever since I was twelve years old."
"I know," his mom said. "It's just, you know the journey can be dangerous."
"Well that's why I have my Pokemon with me," Matt said, looking to his companions. "Trust me Mom, they've done enough training they could take on Palkia or Dialga."
"I quite doubt that, Matt," his mom said, smiling. "That was another thing you always ranted about when you were younger: capturing Palkia."
"Well," Matt said. "Yeah, I always had an interest in Palkia, although I'm not quite sure why. But even so, it would be cool to have one, then we definitely be unbeatable."
"There's that confidence again I know so well," his mom said. "Anyway, so how exactly are you planning this date for tomorrow?"
Matt blushed slightly. "It's not a date, mom. It's just a little get-together between the two of us."
"Well, when I was younger, that usually referred to as a date," his mom said, smirking at him.
Matt sighed. "Alright, fine, it's a date. But nothings going to happen. We're going to eat, then most likely go back to her place and watch some movies."
"And...?" his mom then said.
"Mom, I may be eighteen, but I know very well even if Kari and I did like each other that we wouldn't rush things. But trust me, none of that will happen."
"Whatever you say," his mom said almost sarcastically.
The next day, Kari woke up to the morning sun in her face. She groaned slightly. While today was going to be a good day, it was going to be a long one, at least to her. She then felt something rub against her side and saw that it was Glameow, who had slept next to her last night.
Kari smiled. "Good morning to you too," she said. "Today's going to be one of those days, isn't it?" After getting a shower and her hair done, she then went downstairs to the dining room, where her mother and father were.
"I'm telling you, honey," her father was saying, "This Team Galactic is growing in numbers, and why? They have recruiters all over Sinnoh, asking them to join. At some point, their numbers will outnumber the police force."
"Now don't say that," her mother was saying. "We all know they'll be able to take out this organization sooner or later." She then saw Kari come in. "Oh, morning honey. I already have breakfast made for you at the table."
"Thanks Mom," Kari said, taking a seat. "So, more Team Galactic news, Dad?"
"I'm afraid so," her father said. "Their activities are starting to be noticed by the police, but no one's been able to track them down, yet at least."
"Something about them just creeps me out," her mother said. "They always happen to mention something about a "new world." Well, I've read and seen enough movies and I know well enough that that term is definitely not a good one. But enough about that. What are your plans for the day?"
"Much to do," Kari said. "I have to go out to the mall to do shopping for a new dress, and then head to the salon so that I can get my hair done for tonight."
"Oh, it's so nice to see that you two are going out," her mother said.
"Not like that, Mom," Kari said, embarrassed.
"Are you sure it's a good idea for you two to be going out tonight?" her father asked. "It can be rather dangerous on the streets."
"Come on Dad, I'm eighteen," Kari said. "I'll be able to take care of myself."
"Plus you've known Matthew long enough, dear," her mother said.
"True," her father said. "I have to admit; for his age, his maturity level is surprising."
"Well, he is rather responsible," Kari said. "Especially with his Pokemon." She then looked at her watch. "Well, I better be heading off now. I'll see you both later on." She then gave her mom and dad both a kiss on the cheek and she then left to go to the mall.
Despite it still being early in the morning, Matt was going over what suit to wear for tonight, with help from Raiden, of course.
"Alright, how does this look?" he asked his Pokemon friend, showing him a dress shirt that was blue with thin white stripes.
Raiden looked at it, thinking. "Raichu," he said, saying to keep it for now.
"I don't know," Matt said. "I just hope I don't look like an idiot." He then realized it was probably best to play it safe. "Well, still got the tuxedo from prom."
He then went into his closet and found his old tux from senior prom this year. Raiden then nodded, thinking it was the best choice as well.
"Knowing Kari, she's probably getting her hair done and picking out a dress," Matt said, laughing. However, his mind wasn't feeling the same. Indeed it was his idea, but Matt was feeling rather awkward about this. They weren't going out, and yet they were going out to dinner, just the two of them. Maybe he was just being silly. After all, they were just going out as friends, nothing more nothing less.
"Very well, tux it is," Matt said, finally choosing his outfit. He then looked at his watch. It was 10:30, meaning he had over eight hours before having to head to Kari's. "Perfect enough for some training." He then looked to Raiden. "Raiden, I know you enjoy training and such, as well as the others, but you don't think I overdo it a bit, do you?" Raiden smiled, then jumped onto Matt's shoulder. "I'll take that as a no," he said, laughing. "I have to admit, I don't know what I'd do without all you guys. Mom just loves Empoleon, despite the trouble he makes, and Lucario helps around the house time to time. And of course, if it wasn't for you, buddy, my dreams as a trainer would've probably been over."
It was nice being home for the time being. Matt was able to keep his Pokemon out of their balls, which they enjoyed a lot. Also, since he had three, it wasn't even a problem. However, depending on what happens on his journey, they could easily change. "Well, knowing the others, they're probably downstairs eating breakfast already, so let's join them."
And to no surprise, the day seemed to go by rather quickly. Matt was able to get an hour or two in of training but spent most of the time in his room laying in his bed, collecting his thoughts. Once it started getting around six, he then got himself a shower, got himself dressed, and then made sure he had all the things he needed for tonight.
"You do know that you're all staying here, right?" he said to his Pokemon in the dining room while adjusting his tie in the mirror. They only groaned, causing Matt to almost smile. "Don't give me that," he said. "Trainers got to have their personal time too. Besides, the two of us will be just fine." He then checked to see that he had everything. Once he was satisfied, he then went into the living room, where his mother was sitting, watching TV. "Well mom, I'm heading off now."
"Oh my, how handsome my son has become," his mom said to him, smiling.
Matt rolled his eyes. Typical mom behavior. "Yes mom, you really did a great job raising me to become the young man I am now," he said, a bit of sarcasm in his voice.
His mom just laughed. "Oh Matt, don't feel embarrassed. I know you're too old now to hear stuff like this, but you are my only son after all."
"I know," Matt said. "But, you think you can tone that down a bit, please?"
"Of course," his mom said. "Now, you have yourself a date, so I suggest you get there on time."
Sighing, he said bye to his mom and Pokemon, got into his car and drove to Kari's house. Once he got there, he sat in his car for about a minute. "Alright Matt, this is it," he thought to himself. "Don't do anything stupid, be nice, and make sure to be the perfect gentleman." Taking a deep breath, he opened the door and walked up to the front door. Once he got there, he pressed the doorbell and waited.
The door then opened and Kari's mother was at the door. "Hi Matt," she said happily. "Come on in." Matt came inside and she closed the door behind them. "Well, you sure do look handsome tonight."
"Uh, thanks," Matt said hesitantly.
Her mother giggled slightly, sensing his uneasiness. "No need to be nervous," she said. "You've been over here enough times, so you know we don't bite. Anyway, Kari's still upstairs so we're just waiting for her in the living room."
"Right," Matt said, as the both of them headed towards the living room. Kari's father was in there waiting for her as well.
"Matt," he said to him.
"Sir," Matt said, giving a slight nod. "Don't worry, I'll be sure to have her home at whatever time she needs to be, and I'll make sure that nothing happens to her."
"Well, you were right about the second part," her father said. "As for the first, she's old enough that we can trust her with what she does. However, you better make sure she comes back in one piece, if you know what I mean."
Matt quickly felt himself blushing. He knew exactly what he meant. "Oh no sir, that would never happen. Not at all."
"Honey," Kari's mother said. "You know Matt would never do such a thing."
"Well," he said, shrugging his shoulders. "Just letting him know, that's all."
Suddenly, something caught Matt's eye. He looked up and his heart almost leaped. Standing at the top of the stairs was Kari, but she looked different, in a good way of course. She smiled slightly at him as she came downstairs. She was wearing a short black dress, along with matching gold and black heels. The mere sight of her could startle anyone. But once again, in a good way.
"Hey," she said softly.
"Hey," Matt said back to her.
"Aww, look at the two of them," her mother said. "We definitely need to get a picture of this."
"That reminds me," Matt said. He brought his one arm in front of him, displaying the flowers he had brought for her. "These are for you."
"Aw, thanks Matt," Kari said happily, taking them and giving him a hug. "They're beautiful." The two then got together and got a picture together. Matt just hoped that his mother wouldn't see it.
While her mother went into the kitchen to put the flowers in a vase, Kari then looked to him. "I'm guessing Dad gave you the little talk?"
"I guess," Matt said. "How'd you know?"
"Oh I could hear everything from upstairs." She then turned to her father. "And personally Dad, I didn't think it was necessary. I'm eighteen for crying out loud. I don't think I still need to be treated as a child."
"What?" her dad said. "I'm just doing my role as a father."
"Overdoing it, more like," Kari said softly, which Matt could only hear. "Look, we're just going out for dinner and once we get back, Matt will most likely be spending the night. Nothing wrong with that, is there?"
"I suppose not," her dad said in a way that made Kari smile constantly.
"Well, we had better be going," Matt said. "I had made reservations for 7:30."
"Bye mom, bye dad," Kari said. "Remember, we'll be back right after dinner is over."
They then left the house and headed towards Matt's car. Matt noticed that Kari was smiling. "What?" he said. She then started giggling. "What?"
"You should've seen yourself," she said. "I've never seen anyone as timid."
"Well, I may have been over to your house a lot, but never to pick you up on a date," Matt said.
"True," she said as they reached the car, where Matt opened the door for her. Once he got in, he then started the engine and they headed off onto their date.
The car ride seemed rather quiet at first, until Matt had finally gotten the guts to ask. "So listen," he said. "About this whole thing. You wouldn't really say it's a date. Just a get-together, right?"
Kari felt herself blushing slightly. "Um, yeah. It's not a date. Not like friends just hang out and such."
And once again, the two fell silent, both feeling awkward. Soon, however, they had finally reached the restaurant, The Flaming Beachside Grill. The name sounded cheap, but everything was rather expensive. Matt knew that a lot of girls weren't big fans of men spending money for them, but he wasn't cheap and therefore, this was the best choice.
"I should've figured we would come here," Kari said, smiling. "I haven't been here in about three years. Wonder if anythings changed."
"You'll see," Matt said, smiling back. They then went inside. Once seeing the host, and telling him about the reservation, they then followed him to their seats. However, Kari then realized they were going outside of the restaurant. As it turned out, Matt had reserved a table for just the two of them up on the deck outside.
Once they both sat down, Kari started shaking her head. "Matt, if I didn't know better, I'd say you were up to something," she said, smirking.
"Oh really?" Matt responded, smirking as well. "And what do you think that would be?"
"Not too sure," Kari said. "But still, thank you for this. I love this great view." And indeed, it was a good view. They could easily see the outside parts of the entire Sinnoh region.
"I'm glad you like it," Matt said. "Had to make sure you were going to have a good time tonight."
Soon, a waitress came and asked what their meals were going to be and soon went back into the restaurant. While they were waiting, Matt decided to strike up conversation. "So I had been thinking," he said. "My whole journey starts next week and I'm going to be away from home for awhile. I'm going to be alone for awhile."
Kari laughed. "But won't your Pokemon be with you?"
"Yeah, but what I mean is I need a traveling companion of my own," he explained. "I was wondering if you wanted to come along?"
"Oh," Kari said, surprised. "Listen Matt, I already told you, I just lost my interest in being a trainer awhile ago. Besides, I have the whole Academy thing coming up."
"Oh come on, it'll be fun," Matt said. "I just want someone accompanying me. Besides, you don't have to be there for a whole another three months."
"That's true," Kari said. "I don't know, I'll think about it."
Soon, their food showed up, and they started eating their meals. Matt was feeling a little anxious. Was it really a good idea for her to come with him? He personally didn't have a problem with it, but what about her parents? They weren't necessarily strict, but if Kari said yes, they might not like the idea.
"Or perhaps I'm just assuming too much," he thought. After awhile, he then looked back up to her. "Well?"
She looked at him in confusion. "Well what?" she asked.
"Have you made up your mind?" Matt asked. He then kicked himself mentally, wishing now he hadn't asked so soon.
"Oh," Kari said. "Well, you are right, I do have some time before I have to head back home and go to the Academy." A smile then crept onto her face. "But I guess I could come along. It's not like I have anything better to do this summer anyway."
"Glad to hear it," Matt said. "And don't worry, I'll remember what your dad had said."
They both laughed at the last comment. Soon, they had finished their meals, and Matt paid for both of them, despite Kari saying she could pay for hers. They then headed back to her house, walked up, and then paused at the front door.
"Thank you, Matt," Kari said. "I had a wonderful night, definitely better than what Kevin would've probably given me."
"Probably," Matt said. "Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow sometime then." He tried to walk back but-
"Hey, wait a minute." He then turned back and saw her arms crossed with a smirk on her face. "I thought we had a deal. I believe two certain movies are waiting for you."
Matt groaned slightly, realizing he had to pay his price as he went inside with her. Still, he couldn't really complain.
(A/N: Finally, I got this chapter done. As Snake would say, "Kept you waiting, huh?" Like I said, I had some computer trouble, but everything's good now, so updates should be quicker. Anyway, hoped you enjoyed the chapter and the main part of the story will begin shortly.)
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