I don't own Pokemon. This chapter was surprisingly hard to write.
My life was surprisingly lax after the intense arrival I had. Looker had indeed kept to his word and the only mention of me in the local media was that I was just some overly curious child who wandered too far into the Solaceon Ruins and was rescued by a pair of locals from the startled Unown.
Said locals were life savers. They took me in and looked after me as if I were always a part of the family. I always did feel a bit guilty about lying about my origins to them but I understood that it was best for our safety.
Pa and Belle were the kindest people I had ever met. From the moment they took me in, they treated me like family. Belle was a budding Pokemon researcher who was always eager to share her knowledge with me, while Pa was a retired ranger who now worked at a ranch in Solaceon, herding the more challenging Pokemon species.
Their home was modest but cozy. I had a room of my own, which was more than I could have ever asked for. It was a far cry from the high-tech facility where I first encountered Giratina. Here, everything was simple and peaceful, just what I needed after my traumatic experience.
But I couldn't help feeling guilty for lying to them about my origins. They thought I was just a lost kid who stumbled upon the ruins, a victim of a dimensional mishap. I knew it was for our own safety, but the guilt gnawed at me.
Despite my guilt, Pa and Belle never treated me any differently. They included me in their daily routines and introduced me to the wonders of Pokemon ranching. I had never seen anything like it before, the way they took care of Pokemon was like taking care of any other livestock albeit with some fantastical differences that come with Pokemon.
Pa was a retired ranger who now spent his time working at one of the many ranches in Solaceon as a Pokemon herder for the more rowdy species like the Tauros line and a few Pokemon that strayed from the woods. Pa and I had many adventures in Solaceon. I remember one time when he took me out to watch the Ponyta herds run wild on the open fields, their flames blazing bright as they galloped across the horizon. He told me stories about his days as a ranger, chasing after outlaws and protecting the wilderness. He even showed me how to lasso a stubborn Tauros, a skill I never knew I needed until then.
Belle was a different sort of mentor for me. She was passionate about breeding and raising pokemons, and often took me along on her research expeditions. We would visit local breeders and discuss the intricacies of evolution, egg groups, compatibility, and how to hatch and care for newly hatched Pokemon. She taught me the ins and outs of Pokemon breeding and genetics, even allowing me to help with her research. It was amazing to learn about the different egg groups and how to breed certain moves and abilities into Pokemon. She was always patient with my questions and curiosity, and never once treated me like a dumb kid.
But what I loved the most about living with Pa and Belle was the moments we shared together. Like when we would sit on the porch at night, watching the stars and talking about life. Or when we would go on hikes and explore the beautiful countryside. Those moments were priceless, and they made me feel like I belonged somewhere. Slowly, the ache of my past "falling" began to wane with the passage of time.
Reflecting on those days, I came to realize that living with Pa and Belle was a blessing beyond measure. They not only offered me sanctuary but also an opportunity to immerse myself in the world of Pokémon, to experience the warmth of genuine affection and concern. They guided me through the physical changes as I navigated puberty for the second time, with considerably less awkwardness.
As the months turned into years, I gained permission to accompany Pa and Belle to the care center. Over time, I even contributed to Belle's breeding research. My responsibilities included looking after the more docile Pokémon that frequented the breeding center and aiding in data collection for Belle's studies. It was demanding work, but the fulfillment it brought was immeasurable. Despite my attachment to my newfound family and life in Solaceon, my past and the unswerving goal of returning home never slipped from my thoughts.
And now, after three years, I could apply for a junior license at the age of 16. We're currently making our way to the local Pokemon center to register myself for a Youngster Trainer license and I couldn't be any more excited. It was a license for lower-powered Pokemon usually kept as pets, but it does allow for some leeway. It also had a three Pokemon carry limit but it wasn't a big problem for me.
As we made our way to the local Pokemon center to register my first Pokemon, a Starly named Juno, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and pride. I had raised Juno from an egg gifted from Belle, watching it grow over the past few weeks. It was finally time to make things official and register her as my starter Pokemon.
As we walked through the doors of the center, the bustling sounds of trainers and their Pokemon filled the air. I couldn't help but feel a bit nervous, but Pa and Belle reassured me that everything would be fine. After a short wait, it was finally our turn to register Juno.
The receptionist, a kind woman named Emily, greeted me with a warm smile as she gathered my information and Juno's details. Her eyes sparkled with a genuine interest as she glanced over my choice of a starter Pokémon, noting that Juno, my Starly, was larger than the average one. I explained that Juno had been specially bred by Belle to protect Solaceon's crops from potential threats.
"I can see from your evaluation score that you're already well-versed in this information, honey, but I'm obligated to go over it with you," Emily said pleasantly. I nodded, appreciating her professionalism, and accepted the pamphlet she handed me.
Beneath the counter, Emily retrieved a laminated document that neatly outlined the terms and conditions of the Youngster Licence. Clearing her throat, she began to provide an overview.
"The Youngster Licence comes with certain responsibilities," Emily began, her tone both informative and reassuring. "Article 1 details eligibility, so I'll focus on the highlights from subsequent sections. You'll find the complete details in the provided pamphlet."
"Per Article 2," she continued, "you're required to demonstrate your ability to ensure your Pokémon's well-being by undergoing a wellness check at the nearest Pokémon Center every two weeks. Failure to do so can lead to consequences for both you and your sponsor, Trainer Belle." She let her gaze fall on Belle who smiled reassuringly at me.
"Article 3 specifies that you're allowed to have a maximum of three registered Pokémon. This isn't just about carrying capacity; it's the number of Pokémon that can be officially registered to your name. Additionally, these Pokémon must not fall under the 'dangerous' classification. You can find the list of eligible Pokémon for your license on the official league website."
Emily's tone grew more serious as she explained, "Use of 'Hard Moves' is strictly prohibited, young man. No flying, climbing or surfing or any other dangerous activity."
"In Article 4," she continued, "there's a requirement for you to register each and every battle you participate in. These battles must be restricted to opponents who hold a maximum of two gym badges or their equivalent. Remember, don't let older trainers intimidate you."
"Lastly, Article 5 makes it clear that failure to adhere to the terms and obligations outlined in this document could result in your Youngster Licence being revoked, as determined by the relevant regional Pokémon authorities. That's the gist of it, dear. Finish filling out these forms and give us a smile for the camera."
With the necessary forms completed, I was handed a shiny new Youngster Pokémon Licence. I was now officially a Pokémon trainer! Taking a moment to soak it all in, I grinned with excitement before Emily gently redirected my attention.
Emily gently redirected my focus, drawing our conversation to a close.
"You're all set, hon," she affirmed warmly. "Now go on and seize the day, dearie."
As we walked out of the Pokemon center, Juno chirped happily on my shoulder, excited as I was. I couldn't wait to start our journey together, to train and battle alongside each other. It was the beginning of a new chapter in my life, and I was ready for whatever adventures lay ahead.