Disclaimer: I do not own Pokemon. I own my OCs.

Topaz has a new goal in sight. To become a Gym Trainer of Sunyshore City Gym. While our young lad isn't completely dedicated to the idea of becoming an electric specialist he does not deny the value of training under his Uncle's experienced eye.

Until he is ready in both mind and body to take the Gym Trainer test, Topaz has found other avenues of entertainment to keep him preoccupied. As well as a new rival to contend with.

~Topaz~

It's been about a week since Lou joined the party. During that time I've successfully been able to take him to school for a solid 2 hours before he got so bored he began to gnaw on the chairs. Needless to say, whenever I go he either stays in his ball, attacks his chew toy or chills in the playground. Donut doesn't seem to understand why he's so antsy, but contrary to his beliefs not everyone can sleep in a bag all day and be okay.

With Lou in my roster my routine hasn't changed too much so far. I attend to both his and Donut's needs. They get their exercise with some training and battles, then we go home and I'm able to do what I've gotta do like my homework or chores. My classmates were naturally jealous of my rare catch, even one of them offering to trade, but I had to let them know I had absolutely no interest in trading Pokemon. My friends aren't trading cards to be replaced.

Jade on the other hand looked a bit… envious I'd say. I don't see why considering his birthday is literally tomorrow, but all I could guess is that maybe he was tired of watching me bond with my Pokemon when he could be doing it himself.

We haven't talked that much over the last few days. Apparently he's been busy preparing for his starter and I didn't want to intrude since I understand the importance. He's got his neighbor helping him out I think since he already knows what starter he's going to pick and has absolute confidence in who's it gonna be. I think they are a grass type since he told me he contacted Gardenia about it, but he can be fickle.

Today there was nothing special going on, so I was just at the gym watching Volkner's Octillery, Ganelon, mentor Donut and Lou. He was eager to teach them both on how to manipulate electricity. Lou theoretically could use Spark, but the time it took for it to manifest was too long for anything short of a finisher move on an immobile opponent. Ganelon was teaching him how to channel that in a more productive manner.

Now you're probably asking why and how is a water type teaching a bug and electric type how to use electric moves? When Volkner decided to devote himself to electric Pokemon he knew he needed suitable answers to ground types. Ganelon is that answer. While the only electric moves he knew were Charge Beam and Thunder Wave, he was extremely adept at using both and more than comfortable teaching them about it as well.

He's kind of similar to Lou in that he's something of a drill sergeant and Lou loves it. I dunno how to explain it, but from my perspective, it looks like an angry octopus is yelling moral support at an angry bug while a tiny mouse watches with complete ambivalence. It's a very strange scene which is why I am not intervening much and letting it play out. It's fun.

Donut was still building up his electric reserves. Whatever advice Ganelon gave him seemed to be working as he was able to build up more without getting tired. Though he could do without the yelling, albeit Ganelon is loud regardless. When he wasn't charging he was running laps to build up stamina. To appease him during those times I ran the laps along with him, just so he couldn't say I never do anything either.

It was a typical day until I heard a familiar voice say my name.

"Topaz!" Cynthia called out, grinning from ear to ear, "Congratulations on your starter!" She looked quickly to Lou, brightened even more and hugged me. "And your second partner! How have you been, I'm sorry I've been busy and I made a discovery but first things first!" She stood with me, more jubilant than I'd seen her… ever, really. "How have you been, how're your partners, what've you been up to?" Reginleif was just standing behind her looking amused.

Is this what I sound like to her when I'm excited?

"We've been alright so far and it's okay, you're the champion after all. The Pichu over there is Donut, my starter. The Grubbin is Lou, our first catch. We met about a week ago, so it's all been good and right now we're just doing some light training."

Donut and Lou stopped their training to wander over to me curiously. Donut hopped onto my shoulder, snuggling into my scarf. Lou stood by my side eyeing Reginleif with a dangerous look. I nudged him with my foot catching his attention before shaking my head.

No, bad Lou, bad. Behave.

He didn't exactly relax, but he began to look less blatantly hostile which is a plus for him.

She extended a hand to Donut. "It's a pleasure to meet you Donut. I'm Cynthia," she looked to Lou, "and I'm more than happy to shake your pincer if you want."

Donut leaned over to cautiously sniff her hand before giving her finger a shake, a sign of approval. After watching Donut shake her hand Lou almost seemed convinced she wasn't a threat, but I could tell the giant dragon towering behind her wasn't encouraging.

No one can say that his instincts are out of order. He's on high alert.

In the end he actually did extend a pincer, but before he could shake her hand I quietly warned him.

"If you attempt to do what you're thinking, even I can't help you, ya know."

He acknowledged that warning quickly and gave her a brief handshake while eyeing Reginleif the whole time.

So he does have self-preservation skills. Good.

"You're oddly excited, Cynthia. I don't think I've ever seen you so…"

What's the right word to describe the champion right now…?

"Giddy."

That's the best I've got.

Reginleif was almost… Laughing? I think that's laughing. It's like amused roaring in short bursts. She did that before saying something to Lou while Cynthia kept smiling brightly at me.

"Of course! I made a discovery recently which is what kept me from being here when you and Donut first met, but past that you've taken more than just your first real step to being a wonderful trainer. You've taken at least eight or nine and I'm excited to meet your new partners. To see how you've been and say hello." She looked like she wanted to go for a hug but wasn't about to knock off Donut, so she stood there smiling.

I bashfully rubbed the back of my head at that. It was always so strange for me to be doted on, seeing her smiling like this made me feel shy and small, but not even in a bad way. I can't really describe it, but it felt… nostalgic.

I looked towards Donut and Lou. "Heh, I wouldn't say we've done all that much, but we're pretty close already. Thanks though. Um, what was the discovery you made?"

Her smile faltered just a tad before it came right back. "I can't tell you just yet, since it relates to something that's not my secret to tell. I can give you a hint though if you want that?"

Classified champion information and I get a hint? Heck yeah I'm taking that!

"Absolutely!"

She nodded. "Some stories that we humans think are just crazy ramblings? They're far more true than you'd think." She paused a moment. "I suppose that's two hints in one if you look at it the right way, but nonetheless. I know you're a fan of research and stories, so I'm sure you'll come across the ones I mean eventually. Past that? It's up to you."

That's vague, but intriguing. The Pokedex has entire sections dedicated to mythos, lore and old entries that were bunked (Maccargo in fact cannot melt the ecosystem by existing). There's lots of crazy stories, but Pokemon have crazy abilities and even humans can do some weird stuff, so I'm guessing one of them is right. Granted this is Sinnoh and there's too many to count, ugh, I can see why she was willing to give a hint. It's Joltik in a haystack.

"Guess I have something to look into now. I needed a good reason to take it easy and dive into the books again. Whatever it is, it sounds like it's got your attention. Hmmm," I began to smirk mischievously. "Does Volkner happen to know?"

She shook her head. "Not yet. I'm going to tell him some of it later, but that comes after seeing you. And I'd say more, but I know you're going to try and get me to play twenty questions until you work it out." She smirked right back. "I've seen you and Jade enough to know random queries aren't idle curiosity."

...I won't deny that statement. Who can blame us? Sinnoh is full of secrets and we're bored kids who can't travel yet. Might as well spend our free time learning the regions' secrets.

"Speaking of Jade, tomorrow he gets his starter Pokemon from Gardenia, I think. She's just gonna send the starters to Sunyshore Gym so he doesn't have to go all the way to Eterna City though. He hasn't told me who he wants, but considering how much time he spends with his neighbor and their Sunflora gardening I've got a good guess on who it could be," I stated with full confidence.

A small spark flashed through her eyes, but it was gone before I even could figure out if I'd imagined it or not. "Perhaps, but you never know. You're both ones to surprise, and I'd wager you both surprise each other fairly often. There's a lot of grass types in Sinnoh. Speaking of…" She looked to Lou. "Unless I've pulled a Byron or fallen behind on my talks with Rowan, I don't think I've seen many of the Grubbin line in Sinnoh. Are you getting along alright? The weather treating you fine?"

Lou nodded adamantly before looking back at me as though to elaborate.

"I'm not sure when or how Lou came to Sinnoh, but he was wild when I met him with a whole lot of bug type friends with him. He seemed fine and Nurse Joy gave him the a-okay, so I try not to worry too much. Though I did have to update my Pokedex to add their line since like you said, no one has ever seen a Grubbin in Sinnoh."

She gave a sigh of relief before looking to Donut. "And I take it someone has a favorite snack for it to be their name?"

Donut smirked with pride and stood on my shoulder before pounding his chest. "Donut has a sweet tooth. Or more like a sweet jaw. It's like his main motivation."

Donut looked like he wanted to deny, but he shrugged and went back to lying on my shoulder with a comfortable expression.

"Well you certainly seem to be getting along well if he's ready to fall asleep on your shoulder. Would you two like to meet the other members of my team? They're not all as intimidating as Reginleif is, I assure you."

Reginleif gave a small snort of amusement and looked to me.

"Absolutely! Guys, you'll love them. They protect the region, like Ganelon and the others."

Donut had the courtesy to look attentive at that and Lou waited patiently for them to be sent out. Cynthia took the time to introduce each member one by one for the three of us to meet. It was so amazing to see her team in full glory and interesting to see them outside of battle. They are the strongest Pokemon in the region, but outside of it while they obviously exuded power they were a likable bunch. A lot like Reginleif.

They could be intimidating if they wanted, but there's no need to be some untouchable deity of power every time you're in the presence of others. I figured they were just beyond those notions of power flexing like Cynthia. They knew who they are and have complete confidence, no need to be extra about it. It's admirable. Lou seemed to respect it and even Donut paid proper attention to each one.

After we'd gotten through introducing everyone, she looked back to me. "By the way, Topaz. I heard you've been to Alola before. How was it? I've been thinking about going myself, and I'd be more than happy to take advice on what to see there."

I could practically feel my eyes light up when she said that. The champion of Sinnoh wants to visit my father's region? I had to take advantage.

"It's fantastic! Imagine Sunyshore, but it's the entire region and hotter. The Pokemon and humans coexist peacefully since while humans catch Pokemon, they don't really train them all that much. They all just live together like big happy families, only using Pokeballs when they have to. There's 4 islands with completely different Pokemon on each one, lots never seen before in other regions, but most trainers don't go there since there's not as much for them to do. Melemele is where my family is from and my friend Kukui who's dreaming of becoming a professor. Poni Island is where the strongest Pokemon are, but I don't really know all that much about it… oh yeah, they've got these Pokemon called regional variants! Kukui showed me a snow white Vulpix one time and some psychedelic Grimer that eats trash. There's just SO much more to it than a vacation destination."

Lou contributed to the discussion with what I can assume were his own opinions on Alola at the end considering how much he was chittering by the end. Cynthia looked thoughtful about my spiel.

No one really asks about Alola… did I get carried away? Heh.

"So what I'm getting from this is I should've gone yesterday." She smiled. "Well, it'll take me a moment to find the time to properly go there given the railway is going to enter the construction phase soon, but when I can I'll head over to Alola. I might even make a new friend while there." She looked to Lou. "And I'll say hello to your friends there alright?"

Lou simply grunted in response. I wonder if he ever wants to go back? Doesn't seem like it, but I think he appreciates her gesture.

"I think you'll enjoy it, but um… you might want to wear something… lighter," I said gesturing to her latest black coat. The magazines really like to hype it up every year if Cynthia's new coat will be anything but black. They are wrong every year.

She just shrugged, a cheeky grin across her face. "Maybe, but I've got an aesthetic to keep up. I can't just not wear my coat." Her face brightened. "Oooh, maybe that'll be a good excuse for ice cream…"

That got a good laugh from me and even Donut seemed to respect her more at that shameless statement. They share a kinship via sweets. During my whole laughing fit the door from the gym's breakroom opened revealing Volkner looking at something on a tablet before looking up to see Cynthia.

"Cynthia, glad you could make it," Volkner nodded at her with his usual bored expression.

She smiled back at him. "Hello to you too Volkner. I've actually something I'd like to talk about with you if you've got the time?"

"Me too. I've got some reports I wanted to run by you or Lucian if you guys had the time," He looked at me before turning to Cynthia. "You guys busy?"

I perked up before looking at Cynthia. She had already spent a lot of time talking to me and my team so… it's only fair I let her get back to business.

"Nah, it's alright. These two have got to get back to training anyway," I said ignoring the subsequent groans and cheers from my two allies.

She gave me one last careful hug so as to not knock off Donut before waving. "I'll see you later!" She walked off, Reginleif following after along with the rest of her team. Only Heimdall, with slight blue fire coming from where his eyes would be behind the band, looked back.

"Be well, young ones."

And then he walked after Cynthia.

...excuse me? What did he just do? Did Heimdall, a blind Lucario, just speak? Lucario can talk?

Sometime after Roland and Heimdall had their match he was blinded in a fight against Team Galactic. Cynthia isn't liberal with the details, but ever since then he's been wearing an expert belt over his eyes and apparently using his Aura to see. In essence this actually improved his abilities rather than hampered them. I guess the ability to use telepathy was part of it?

"But was that telepathy? You heard that too, right Donut?"

"Pi-chu chu," He nodded slowly.

"Guess that's just what you expect from a champion level Lucario… wow."

It was all I could think before Ganelon reached over my shoulder and plucked Donut off of it. I looked down to see he had taken Lou as well and placed them back on the battlefield.

Oh right, training.

"Alright guys, back to it! Let's try to get Spark down, Lou. Donut, let's see how many laps you can run after a break!"

~The Next Day~

"Are you finished?" I asked, tapping my foot impatiently as I watched Donut sit on my desk, gorging on the cookies one of my classmates made for class. He gave me a dirty look before putting another cookie in his mouth.

"You're just going to regret eating them all when you're hungry later and then you'll whine about wanting more when you know you won't get more."

"Chu!" He squeaked before eating another cookie. I rolled my eyes and grabbed the cookie bag, closing it and placing it in my backpack. Donut gave an annoyed huff followed by a pleading look, but I returned it with a firm one of my own.

Lou managed to crawl onto the desk and chittered something at Donut which simply made him pout.

"You'll thank us for this later. Someone has to be your superego after all," I sighed a bit more dramatically than usual. Another perk of Lou joining our party is that he balances out Donut's laziness and gluttony with his own hardcore, aggressive personality. Donut keeps him mellow and Lou keeps him from getting diabetes. Balanced as all things should be… unlike the Steel type. How come they get 10 resistances and an immunity while Bug types are not very effective against 7 types? Hmm could be worse. Could be an Ice type.

Leaving those thoughts alone, I offered Donut my hand and he practically instinctively hopped onto my arm and jumped into my bag. I offered my left arm for Lou to crawl onto so he could chill on either my shoulder or my head (only if I was wearing a hat). Today he elected head as I was wearing my black cap today.

"Now that we're finally ready, let's go see Jade."

While I was at school, Jade was celebrating his birthday. Specifically his 10th. The most important one of all, the day he becomes a trainer and obtains his starter Pokemon. He met them in the morning like I did and he said to meet him at his place after school so I wanted to get a move on fast. From this day forward we could finally train together, be trainers together and fight together. All I could do was wonder what sort of Pokemon Jade would choose partner… but I already know the species.

It took awhile to finally reach his house. It was more Victorian than most of the houses in Sunyshore with its green paint, eerie black roof and ominous, vine covered fencing. There were even some gargoyle statues close amidst the garden. I always asked him whenever I came over if he found his place to be a bit… unique and he simply told me it's just his family's style.

The Old Chateau style, I swear to Arceus that statue just blinked.

He lived close by to Route 222 so this area of the city was nestled in nature and a bit more isolated. Further from most of the stores and port, that could be convenient if you didn't want to deal with the usual hustle and bustle of the city.

I began making my way to his front door after accessing his house's unnerving exterior for the umpteenth time when I heard water splashing from next door. I looked over and my breath immediately hitched.

Next door was a Sunflora watering their own garden with a Wailmer watering can, but unlike most Sunflora their petals were incredibly jagged and a bit duller than what I've seen. There were also burn marks on their body, but they appeared to be several years old. None of this seemed to inhibit their movements as they peacefully went about watering the plants humming a tune to themselves.

When they noticed me staring they turned to wave and gave me a pleasant smile. Stunned I returned their gesture with one of my own, Donut poked out of the bag to wave as well. The Sunflora nodded contentedly before returning to their work.

I turned back to the ground and began to wonder what had happened to them in the past. Abuse? The expression they gave me didn't imply that. Battles? They could sometimes leave permanent scars in the worst battles, but there was something about these wounds that made me wonder.

Donut poked my cheek bringing me back to reality when I realized I was just standing in the middle of the yard looking down. I turned to face him and he had a look of vague worry, which I eased by stroking his chin.

"It's alright, just lost in my thoughts. Let's go see Jade," I said walking forward and pressing the doorbell. We waited a few moments before I could hear someone running to the door from the inside and the door opened revealing an excited Jade with a pompous smirk.

"Z! You're finally here, good! Let's head to the backyard," Was all he said before he grabbed my arm and dragged me to the backyard leading me to witness an even more extravagant garden than I remember.

Someone has been busy, how many flowers has he planted since the last time I was here? Is this how he prepared?

I looked around to see there were roses, carnations, sunflowers, tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, lilies and more all over his backyard, I thought I had entered a fairy garden for a moment. There was a bird bath and large fountain with Finneon spouts in the corner.

It was a large backyard with a tall tree with several of its branches holding various instruments you'd see at a playground such as a swing or tire swing. In the corner I spotted a singular Budew sniffing a black rose before turning to us. Donut and Lou each jumped off my body as they marveled at our surroundings.

"This is my starter, Flax the Budew. He's a guy by the way," Jade added on at the end. "Flax, this Topaz, Donut and Lou. My friends."

Budew… I knew it. Considering his love for nature I knew he'd choose a grass type, but he also has an affinity for flowers. Budew evolves into the rose Pokemon, it's only fitting. Not to mention he got his Pokemon from Gardenia whose ace is a Roserade. Heh, I could be called an ace detective.

I knelt down to properly greet Flax who walked up to us hesitantly. He seemed a bit timid, but he was willing to greet us. Donut sniffed him cautiously, but a small whiff caused him to sneeze slight jolts.

Flax stepped back nervously, but after Donut finished rubbing his nose he apologized quickly. Lou's greetings was much more straightforward, he simply chittered a few words at him and Flax just looked at him bewildered.

"Your Pokemon are weirding Flax out," Jade sighed hands at his hips.

"Well excuse them for having dynamic personalities, sheesh," I retorted back at Jade jokingly. "So as expected you chose a Budew, at least your tastes are consistent."

"Of course, Roserade are beautiful Pokemon with deadly hidden thorns. That's the exact image I want to convey when I become a true trainer, which is why Flax is my partner. When Volkner showed me all the starters Gardenia sent over I went straight for Flax, it was destined we'd work together and naturally he believed so as well considering he chose me too."

Jade finished his dramatic explanation with a flourish that Flax copied eagerly in his own way despite lacking arms. He seemed to revere Jade a tad which piqued my curiosity.

"So all of this was for Flax?" I said gesturing to the fey garden he'd made here.

"Unfortunately not all of us live with the electric gym leader, so I had to make my own accommodations. Luckily my neighbor, Garland, is a gardner and helped me arrange all the flowers, bushes and fertilizer. Budew is a Pokemon that grows best not by training, but by living in a clean and vibrant environment, at least until they evolve into Roselia. I created this place to be as hospitable to him as possible, so he may achieve the beauty I know we are capable of one day."

"You certainly outdid yourself with all this. Any Pokemon thief with pollen allergies who comes near this place will go into anaphylactic shock," I noted stifling a sniffle. "I'm impressed though, I'll have to let Volkner know you're not such a slacker after all."

"Haha, we can't have that though! We can't get too predictable, I'll have to figure out some sort of scheme to keep him on his toes," Jade joked once again.

We spent a while playing with all 3 of our Pokemon in his backyard. His backyard had ample space for tag as long as we didn't step on any flowers. We swung on the swings, climbed the tree, raced with our Pokemon and just had the time of our lives. Even Lou seemed to be having fun although tag was a bit difficult for him and Donut warmed up to playing with Flax rather well. After a bit we all went inside to rest up and get refreshments. As I was drinking my ginger ale Jade asked me an interesting question.

"So, Z, ready for our battle?" He asked with full confidence.

All I could do was give him a confused look as I swallowed my drink. "Ready to kick your butt? Was that what you said since that's all I heard."

"Cute, but seriously, I wanna see how Flax stacks up," He replied. "Come on, it'll be a light battle, no one will get seriously hurt."

I turned towards Donut and Lou who were enjoying their juice alongside Flax before turning back to Jade.

"It's only fair, let's give it a go. Donut, you're up! Lou come on," I said as I got up from my seat making my way outside. Donut and Lou followed Jade and Flax to the street in front of his house. It was isolated and large enough so a quick battle wouldn't do any harm.

We each took our respective places across from each other. Flax looked at Jade nervously, but he walked onto the battlefield regardless. Donut tried to get Lou to fight for him, but Lou, bless him, pushed him onto the field anyway.

In the corner of my eye I could see the Sunflora was accompanied by a man who I assume was the trainer. His condition was similar to the Sunflora as he walked with a limp, at the edges of his sleeves I could see old burn scars, he wore a large hoodie to cover most of his face, but I could notice some of his fluffy blonde hair.

Despite the way he limped I could still feel like there was a sort of strength to his demeanor. I ignored them and turned back to Jade before I got lost in my thoughts again.

"First battle, first move, show us what you've got Jade," I commanded.

"We'll gladly accept it, here we go, Flax use Absorb!" Jade shouted with an elated gusto. Flax opened up his bud releasing long green tendrils desperate to absorb energy. Donut got on all fours and easily dodged the slow attack.

"Try again, Jade!"

He ignored my taunt and ordered Flax once again this time releasing a bevy of small Poison Stings from his bud. Donut skillfully dodged each one using the evasive techniques we'd been working on including simply rolling out of the way before he got close enough to deliver a Mega Punch straight to Flax's face.

"You good to keep going, Flax?" Jade asked, surprisingly calm about the whole situation. Flax jumped back up and nodded. "Good. Remember to keep a level head, try Pin Missile!"

Flax opened up his bud for the third time releasing sharp missiles with decent tracking. Donut began to run headfirst into the missiles flipping, twisting and turning to avoid them causing many to crash into each other.

"Stop and use Spikes!" Jade commanded once Donut was about to land. It took Flax a moment to switch gears as he had to close his bud and open it again, but this time he sent out small caltrops close to where Donut was going to land.

"Thundershock and Defense Curl! See if you can destroy them!" I shouted as Donut began to let loose electricity while curling into a ball to increase his defense. Many of the Spikes were eliminated by the attack, but not all though the defensive roll mitigated some of the damage. When he stopped rolling on the ground he released himself looking annoyed, but upon seeing Flax charge up another Poison Sting he retaliated with a Thundershock easily blowing back Flax's attempt.

"Hmmm," Was all Jade had to say as Flax was knocked back.

"Finish this with Headbutt," I said and Donut immediately acted. Fueled by his annoyance at the spikes in his fur he leapt forward before Flax could even waddle out of the way before he was launched straight into Jade's arms causing him to fall over as well. Donut landed gracefully before pulling out a spike and licking his fur.

"That's a wrap, thank you Donut. Good job you two. I see the potential already, but Donut is kind of a big deal. He wouldn't lose to a rookie," I boasted.

Ignore the fact I've only been a trainer for less than 2 months.

Jade didn't look bothered, more like contemplative. He pulled out a potion and sprayed Flax who got up albeit a bit groggily before looking sad. Jade sideyed the man with the Sunflora who I assume is Garland who simply nodded. Jade focused back on Flax and rubbed his back.

"No worries, Flax, that was just a test and you passed. You've got skills, I just needed to see how you'd do against someone a bit more experienced," He praised.

I made my way over with Lou in tow who oh so kindly removed a spike from Donut's rear. Jade got up proper with Flax in his arms smirking at me.

"That was exhilarating albeit a bit shorter than I hoped. At the same time I learned something valuable, so it was well worth it."

"Oho and what is that?" I just had to know.

He pointed at me in an obnoxious manner. "That the gap between us is negligible at best. I now know that we can definitely beat you by the time the Little Cup Tournament begins."

I stared at him as though he were crazy. "I don't know if you've heard J, but my team has been pretty effective at taking down fellow rookies. You haven't seen Lou fight and you're already saying you can beat us? All that pollen must be affecting your brain, try taking your head out of the roses for a bit and breathe in the pure air everyone else is sniffing."

"It's alright, Z, I know you're scared of my plans. I would be too, but I'm sure you'll put up a decent fight. Right Flax?" Jade said looking down at Flax who looked confused, but a bit emboldened by his trainer's unwavering confidence. Lou simply scoffed at their hubris. He wasn't a fan of losers boasting. Donut had lost interest which for once I couldn't blame him.

"Hmmm, denial is dangerous indeed. Ah well, this was a fun little bout, but I should prolly head back," I announced.

"Oh right, well thanks for this, truly. It was fun," He gave me a half smile, a genuine one. "There's a lot I need to think about now that I've got my own Pokemon partner. I can see why you kept to yourself for so long when you met Donut."

"Course, it's a lot to think about, but it looks like you're more than ready," I commended him. "See ya later Jade and by the way, you're not winning the Little Cup."

"We'll see," He smirked, causing his emerald eyes to glint mischievously in the light. The Pokemon made their own goodbyes before we took off. Once we had made it a bit down the street I turned around to see what Jade was doing. I noticed him talking adamantly with Garland and his Sunflora who I can only guess was giving him and Flax tips.

I wonder what their story is…

I began to realize I had stayed at Jade's house much longer than I had intended when I noticed the sun slowly beginning to set into the sea as it does every night. The locals were beginning to wrap up the day, either heading home from work or closing up shop. I passed by some tired Elekid with sagging arms who must've spent the entire day training in hopes to one day evolve.

Some Aipom were fleeing the scene of their crime with someone's stolen hat. Lou sat snuggly on my own hat, so its safety was secured when one of the Aipom eyed it mischievously.

Surprisingly enough I noticed a Purrloin quietly observing passersby within the window of their trainer's home. Their eyes lingered on me more than any other person walking past, but they did not bother trying to pursue staring at me once I was out of eyesight.

A few Lillipup puppies ran ahead of their older Herdier caretaker right in front of me. Herdier looked at their wit's end trying to deal with all these puppies, but they nodded apologies to me before running off again.

Donut was poking outside of the bag watching the world from his little spot and waved goodbye to Herdier as they chased their pups down the street. I couldn't see Lou's reaction, but that may be because he didn't really have strong opinions about scenes like that. He was less prone to playing compared to Donut.

I wonder if he had siblings of his own. I wonder if Donut has any siblings, he doesn't seem to show any particular closeness to anyone at the gym and he was born there.

It took awhile since I was walking rather slowly, not in any particular rush to go home since it felt so nice today, when I spotted a familiar face who seemed to be coming from the path close to the gym.

One of the electricians who work with Volkner, Vika I believe is her name. Unlike most of them she's not a gym trainer so I don't see her too often around the gym, but occasionally I see her among the rest of them at meetings in the gym.

When she spotted me she waved emphatically, so I waved back because that was the nice thing to do. Unfortunately she seemed to take that as an invitation to come talk to me, when I really just wanted to lie down and eat, but I can still walk and talk.

"Hey, Topaz! How ya holding up?"

I turned to her proper and slowed my pace. "Same old. You?"

Keep it simple. Courteous.

She just gave a smile and beckoned to where I was going. "C'mon, don't let me keep you. I was just finishing up some maintenance on the gym, and me and Proton figured why not say hi?"

Vika is… big. Like. Really big. She's as big as her Electivire, muscles and all. Blue jeans that have clearly been through a lot, heavy duty boots, thick gloves, a wool sweater to help make sure she doesn't get shocked, she works with heavy electrical equipment all day and she looks it. Her very short yellow hair has black stripes in it, it spikes up like she's got antennae, she's even got red eyes like her Electivire Proton.

No wonder they're her partner, she definitely looks the part.

"I noticed the lights were flickering lately," I noted. Meanwhile Donut popped out of the bag to shake Proton's finger and Lou grunted a greeting in response. I looked at Proton proper. He was large, as expected from an Electivire, but there were also deep scars all over his body where his fur doesn't grow. I had been wanting to ask, but even I had some tact.

She just smiled. "It's fine, just took a little bit of work. Whatcha been up to today? Jade met his starter today right? How'd that go?"

"Mm. He chose a Budew from Gardenia. He created this Garden of Eden in his backyard just for them with his nextdoor neighbor and his Sunflora."

Her eyes lit up. "Oh, Garland! They're getting along well then? It's nice for them both to have a fellow grass type lover around."

I raised my eyebrows in surprise. "You know him?"

"Yeah," grimacing slightly, "we didn't have the greatest time together but he's good people. We see each other every so often. The guy insists I have flowers around my house, says it's for my mental health." She grinned again. "He's right."

"How do you two know each other?"

She just raised an eyebrow. "You sure you want the answer to that? You definitely know it already."

The tone of her voice changed dramatically. The atmosphere got slightly heavier and each step felt as though it carried more weight. I knew exactly what she was talking about, I had figured for a while now, but it didn't seem my place to ask.

Not a single survivor spoke up about their experiences 4 years ago and it had remained till this day. Out of courtesy, news reporters let them be and for all we know they eventually integrated themselves back into society.

"You both were victims of Helheim, right?"

I thought I could feel a pang of actual pain before it quickly vanished. Photon bristled and growled a bit, Vika just patting his shoulder with a deliberately calm expression. "It's okay, we're here now." He nodded, grunting something before he pulled her into a hug. She returned it before looking back to me. "Yeah, but let's change the subject. Yeah?"

"Mm, alright," I nodded quickly and I could feel the tension leave my body. What exactly happened to them was never revealed, but judging by their injuries both trainer and Pokemon suffered. Before I could try to steer the convo elsewhere I noticed that Donut had hopped out of my bag and was perched on Proton's head, casually observing the world as we walked.

Vika glanced to Lou and her smile came back. "I'm glad you respect their line. They're what I'm named after actually."

"Their line…? Oh, Vika as in Vikavolt? Did your parents just have a thing for Vikavolt? Did they save their life? Local celebrity? Was it a threat to name their first born after Vikavolt?" Some of my questions were jokes. I'll let you decide which ones.

"Nah," she laughed heartily, "they just really like 'em. And who wouldn't? They're ffffffffvvvvvery cool."

I frowned at her attempt to not curse. At least she tried. Really I've heard enough trainers to scream obscenities after losing that I feel like I've heard them all. It's funniest when they are from other regions and it's something in a totally different language. I can't wait to elicit that type of response from my opponents.

Lou, who had somehow found himself crawling on Proton as well, beamed proudly at the mention of his line. While he was a far ways away from Vikavolt, he would take the compliment and its validation.

"Do you have a Vikavolt?"

"Back at home yeah. I'm sure she'd be glad to show your new buddy the ropes if he wants. He seems like he knows plenty but there's always something new to learn right?"

Lou quickly exclaimed something I can only guess was a declaration to accept the offer. "It sounds like he'd want that. We've been training bit by bit for the Little Cup tournament coming up, so a few pointers would be great."

She cracked her knuckles and grinned. "Awesome! Ask Volkner where to find me whenever you wanna, we're always ready." Her face scrunched up a bit. "Almost always ready. Everyone has bad days. But besides those."

I nodded gratefully. "Thank you, we'll be sure to take you up on that. Jade thinks he can beat me for some reason, but considering who's on my side, I just don't see that happening."

She laughed. "Don't get cocky now. I've seen bigger upsets. Our Champion is a walking upset. But I'll be rootin' for you."

"No worries, we've got this!" I proudly stated as Donut began to swing from Proton's tails and Lou chittered away at Proton about one thing or the other.

We had a surprisingly nice conversation all the way until it was time for us to separate. We said our farewells and I went inside to finally get something to eat, but also figured since I didn't have homework I ought to check one of my myth books.

It's common knowledge is an expert on myths and archaeology particularly the ones of Sinnoh. If she found something of interest it'd be in a myth she read and was able to learn was plausible. Now which story could that be…?

I changed out of my school clothes, devoured a bento box and sat on my bed with a new mythos book I had borrowed from the school library. Donut was on the floor playing with trains while Lou was gnawing on a chew toy contentedly. Since both were left to their own devices I felt comfortable searching for answers at my own pace.

I began to speed read through the book, looking for anything of note until I came across a few myths of interest. They were familiar, the more well known myths with the official documents being kept in Canalave library.

'Long ago, when Sinnoh had just been made, Pokémon and humans led separate lives. That is not to say they did not help each other. No, indeed they did. They supplied each other with goods, and supported each other. A Pokémon proposed to the others to always be ready to help humans. It asked that Pokémon be ready to appear before humans always. Thus, to this day, Pokémon appear to us if we venture into tall grass.'

"Mmmm," I audibly groaned. This was anything, but plausible. It sounded more like propaganda to make it seem as though Pokemon were eager to assist humans at a moment's notice. The creation of Pokeballs may have implied this, but nowadays if a Pokemon doesn't want to help you, it's unlikely they'll change their mind because you walked into their grass patch.

I turned the page.

'Three Pokémon there were. Into the lakes they dove. Deep, deep, drawing no breath. Deeper, deeper they dove. Into suffocating depths they dove. Deeper, then deepest they alight. From the lake floor they rise. Bearing with them the power to make vast lands, they rise again.'

"Hm," I stroked my chin. This has to be about the Lake Guardians, but there's not exactly much to it that we don't already know.

I turned the page.

'In the beginning, there was only a churning turmoil of chaos. At the heart of chaos, where all things became one, appeared an Egg. Having tumbled from the vortex, the Egg gave rise to the Original One. From itself, two beings the Original One did make. Time started to spin. Space began to expand. From itself again, three living things the Original One did make. The two beings wished, and from them, matter came to three living things wished, and from them, spirit came to be. The world created, the Original One took to unyielding sleep…'

"Arceus…" I said slowly. There's no way to prove how much of this story is fiction or fact since as far as I know Arceus hasn't visited humans in centuries. Unless Cynthia met them then that'd be something… If they were going to appear it would most likely be Sinnoh so it wouldn't be too farfetch'd…

I sighed and put a pin on that thought. If she had met Arceus she likely would've asked them about their lore and edited to be more factual.

Turning even more pages I found some more recently discovered myths of interest. According to the little blurbs they had only transported the official documents to museums in Hearthome and the library at Canalave recently. I turned to the first one that caught my eye.

'Dark, darker, darker still,

Listen to my voice, if you will.

To the noises that go bump at night,

To the howls causing so much fright.

Broken down, my Old Chateau,

What a wonderful place to go.

Here I am across from thee,

And nothing but a wall you see.

And over there a laughing Ghastly,

But is that breath on your neck them, or me?'

"Yeesh," I frowned. I can't say I care much for ghosts. The Old Chateau has been abandoned for ages, but no one dares tear it down as ghosts began inhabiting it exceedingly fast. The place is open to trainers, but it's not for the faint of heart or unprepared. Ghosts are highly unpredictable and even to this day we have trouble treating ghost related injuries and the ghosts themselves.

I turned the page.

'Long ago, humans didn't have Pokeballs to fend off Pokemon. They used to live in fear, boarding up homes and hoping to not be noticed. That is, until a select few Pokemon closer to the humans felt bad and tried to show them how to defend themselves. While unable to use their moves, some humans gained the ability to use Pokemon abilities themselves. Never speaking their language, but accomplishing great feats that an ordinary human never could.'

Now this was an interesting retelling as it seemed to have some degree of accuracy. Humans have been able to survive for so long due to relying on each other and Pokemon, but there are also those with special abilities. Folks with ESP can mentally tango with the best of psychics with enough training and even the few skilled in aura could punch holes straight through solid steel. At the same time this didn't feel like anything we don't already know unless I was missing something. I noted the story before turning the page again.

'There was a girl who lived by the ocean. She swam as much as she possibly could, to the point some joked about her being a water Pokemon. A Finneon took a liking to her, and the two were often seen playing together. One day though, the girl was gone. No matter how much looking was done, no one could find her. The mother however saw two Finneon, swimming side by side happy as can be.'

"Isn't there a dex entry like this," I said to myself as I reached over to my night table to skim through my Pokedex until I landed on the Kadabra page. There have been many folktales about young, intelligent boys turning into Kadabra out of nowhere and this looked very similar to those stories.

Were they true? I can't say for certain, but it seemed to be a running theme. I kept on reading the book until my eyes grew tired and I finally had to close it. I wasn't any closer to discovering what Cynthia's secret was, but I had a bevy of stories that I could bring up later in the hopes I guessed the right answer.

I stared into the ceiling and I began to think about recent events. Cynthia and her mysterious secret. The cocky Jade and his eager to please Budew. Garland the gardener and his burnt Sunflora. Vika and the pain she still retained despite Team Galactic having been defeated years ago.

Well for now anyway.

I rolled onto my side, exhausted. I could feel the pit pat of the bed as Donut scurried his way to my chest to fall asleep. As soon as he did the thoughts swirling through my mind began to dissipate and I entered a peaceful, dreamless sleep.

~Several Months Later~

Volkner, Roland, Donut, Lou and I made our way to the school battlegrounds. Donut was comfortable in my bag, while Lou sat eagerly on my head. Volkner looked down at me and asked.

"You ready for today?"

I practically scoffed at the question. "Ready and willing."

Donut and Lou squeaked and chirped in agreement. In the distance I could spy my fellow classmates meeting up with the officiates of the whole ordeal. Jade turned around and smirked when he saw me, which I returned in kind.

Today was the day of the Little Cup Tournament.

~Chapter 9 Fin~

Trainer: Topaz Heart

Age: 10

Class: Youngster

Gear: Pokedex (001-493), 4 Luxury Balls, 3 Potions, Escape Rope, Phone, The Fool card.

Funds: ¥3,500.

Team: Donut (Pichu), Lou (Grubbin).

x

Donut (Pichu/M)

Moves: Thundershock, Thunder Wave, Mega Punch, Tickle, Headbutt, Defense Curl.

Ability: Static Chance to paralyze opponent upon physical contact.

Likes: Sweets, naps, relaxing, quiet.

Dislikes: Bitter food, stress.

Tactics: Maneuver (Feints taking in hits in order to get in close and tickle).

x

Lou (Grubbin/M)

Moves: Vice Grip, String Shot, Mud Slap, Bug Bite, Dig, Spark.

Ability: Swarm Powers up bug type moves when at low health.

Likes: Bugs, war, battling.

Dislikes: Birds, bullies, condescension.

Tactics: Anti Bird (His sheer hatred of birds has caused him to perform reckless acts few would dare).

Allies

Trainer: Jade Forest

Age: 10

Class: Youngster

Team: Flax (Budew).

x

Flax (Budew/M)

Moves: Absorb, Spikes, Pin Missile.

x

Author's Note

Would you believe me if I expected this chapter to be longer? Anyway, look, there's an Allies section! I wonder what that could mean for the future? Jokes aside, it's there for easy access for you all (and me as well, I can barely remember what happens a chapter prior sometimes).

Since they don't have main character status we aren't privy to all their personal details like we are for Topaz and his team, but I might add a bit more when relevant.

I appreciate the sudden influx of reviews! I am glad you all seem fond of Topaz, I thought very hard on how to not make him generic and I love mixing in wholesome into my writing!

To ease your concerns, the story is about to pick up. The next chapter is the last chapter of Arc 1, then the real conflicts will pick up!

Anyway, the next chapter will be quite fun, fitting for chapter 10. Anywho, please recommend this story to your friends and have a nice day!

Question: What pokemon do you have fond memories of?

For me it's the Roselia line. Besides my starter, Torterra, my Roselia never left my team until the Pokemon League... because I had a mail equipped and didn't know how to take it off. Also didn't know how to evolve him until the League... Hopefully Jade and Flax don't have that issue.