Rory and Aoki wandered through the quieter part of Pallet Town, their Pokémon, Silver the Froakie and Blaze the Tepig, by their sides. They walked down the street that led to an old playground. The slide was broken in half that if one were to go down it, they would fall from a great height of 1 meter, the monkey bars looked as if someone had decided to use it to destroy baseball bats, and the seesaws appeared to have been stolen.
"This place has seen better days," Aoki remarked, kicking a stone across the cracked pavement.
Rory nodded. "Yeah, it's a shame. It used to be so lively."
As they walked, they noticed two rough-looking teenagers lounging near the only part of the playground that was undamaged, the swings. Their eyes fixed on Rory and Aoki. The teenagers wore dark clothing from their hats right down to their shoes, all with a large yellow circle on each of their clothing, and both of them were wielding large black baseball bats.
One of the grunts, a tall boy with a sneer on his face, strolled forward. "Well, well, what do we have here? A couple of trainers out for a stroll? Came here to admire our little 'handiwork'? This place was a dump anyway, we are just taking it out of its misery."
Rory and Aoki exchanged wary glances but stood their ground. "We're just passing through," Rory said, trying to keep his voice steady.
The grunt laughed, and the other grunt, a female one joined in. "Passing through? You are in our territory now. You'll have to pay a toll to get out of here safely. So, let's say, 2,000 pokedollars? But since you are just kids, I will be nice and say 1,000."
Aoki clenched her fists, anger flaring in her eyes. "We're not paying you so much as 1 pokedollar. Leave us alone."
The male grunt's smile vanished, replaced by a scowl. "You've got a big mouth, girl. Maybe we need to teach you a lesson."
Before Rory or Aoki could react, the grunts withdrew their Pokeballs, their intentions clear. Silver and Blaze stepped forward, ready to defend their trainers.
"Get ready, Silver," Rory muttered, his eyes locked on the grunts.
The two grunts threw their Pokeballs, but Rory and Aoki didn't have the time to process what 2 pokemon came out when there was a brilliant flash of light as if the sun had decided to crash into the middle of the fight, and all of a sudden 2 collapesed Kantonian Patrats were on the floor.
There was a long silence, broken only by the 2 grunts sending their fainted Pokemon back into their balls. A commanding voice cut through the tension. "That's enough!"
Rory and Aoki turned to see a tall thin blonde woman in a white suit with a giant black 'J' engraved on it was scowling at the two grunts, a sylveon standing next to her was giving the same look as her trainer, as she walked up to the hooligans with purpose. It was the same woman from last night.
"Team Jet? What do you want?" the female Team Dark grunt spat, her bravado faltering.
The woman stepped forward, her eyes hard. "We don't tolerate bullies in Kanto. Leave these trainers alone and get out of here."
The Team Dark grunts hesitated, unsure of whether to fight or flee. The woman moved closer, her presence intimidating, "I only have to snap my fingers and in 45 seconds this place will be surrounded, and you will be forced to surrender." She boomed sounding like an army commander "So, you can have that, or go back to that hole of Lavender Town. Do you understand me?"
"Fine, we're leaving," the lead grunt grumbled, backing away. "But this isn't over."
The two Team Dark grunts retreated, casting hateful glances over their shoulders as they disappeared into the shadows.
Rory and Aoki let out a breath they didn't realize they were holding. "Thanks for the help," Rory said, his voice filled with gratitude.
The woman turned to look at the two, her face was unreadable. "Oh, it's you two." She made a small sigh as if she was a teenager about to tell their parents that they had totaled their car "Please forgive me for what I said to you last night…I didn't mean to be so rude." she said, now sounding as if she needed to get into bed or had just gotten out of it. "You can see for yourself that there are some punks like Team Dark that are making moves on Kanto, and some of us are on high alert…and to be honest I hate night patrol. I am anything but a night person." She sighed, as she extended a hand "My name is Amanda. One of the executives of Team Jet, dedicated to keeping Kanto safe from troublemakers like them. Are you two, okay?"
"We're fine," Aoki replied, smiling. "Thanks to you."
Rory shrugged, offering a small smile. "It's okay, Amanda. We know you were just looking out for us."
Aoki nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we get it. It's nice to know someone cares about keeping people safe, even if it was a little over the top."
Amanda's shoulders relaxed, relief evident on her face. "Thanks for understanding. And for what it's worth, I really do think you two are going to make a big difference out there. Just... maybe take it a bit easier on the late-night adventures? Please?"
Rory chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "We'll try to keep that in mind."
Amanda glanced at Silver and Blaze, who were now admiring her Sylveon. "You have brave Pokémon. They're lucky to have trainers like you."
Rory and Aoki exchanged a proud glance with their Pokémon. "We're lucky to have them too," Rory said.
Amanda smiled and handed each of them a small badge with the Team Jet emblem. "If you ever need help, just show this badge to any Team Jet member. We're here to protect and serve." She said with a small salute.
"Thank you," Aoki said, taking the badge. "We appreciate it."
With a final nod, Amanda walked away, leaving Rory and Aoki to reflect on the encounter.
She looked back and said, "I will be making a small speech at the town square in 10 minutes, you are free to be there." And with that she ran off.
Rory and Aoki nodded, as they casually walked around the streets of Pallet town until they made it to the town square in Pallet Town.
The two trainers made their way through the crowded town square to attend the speech, curious about the commotion. Silver, Rory's Froakie, perched on his shoulder, and Blaze, Aoki's Tepig, trotted beside her. There were Team Jet banners scattered all over the small-town square.
As they pushed their way to the front of the crowd, they saw Amanda looking like as if she had did a triathlon who was holding a megaphone.
"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for gathering here this morning," Amanda said. "My name is Amanda, and I'm proud to represent Team Jet. Our mission is simple: to protect Kanto and make it safer for everyone. We've seen too many instances of wild Pokémon causing harm and rogue trainers threatening our peaceful lives. We have the Hood gang who are terrorizing Fuchsia City, the Bikers who are all over Saffron City, and that horrible Team Dark who has taken over all of Lavender Town! Just 15 minutes ago 2 thugs tried to take over one of the few areas in the Kanto region that is safe from harm! But I personally took a stop to it. That is why Team Jet is here to help."
The crowd murmured with interest, nodding in agreement.
"We are committed to renovating routes, patrolling towns, and ensuring that everyone can travel safely without fear," Amanda continued, her tone passionate and convincing. "Our team is is also dedicated to driving out dangerous Pokémon and deterring those who wish to do harm. How many among you here has received injuries from a crazy pokemon or knew someone who has?"
At this almost half the crowd raised their hands. Amanda herself opened her mouth wide to show that some of her teeth are gone "I myself had been struck by a wild machomp and now I lost 5 of my teeth because of it. The police are slow and inefficient, and good members are few and overworked. Together, we can build a safer, stronger Kanto."
A few people in the crowd clapped, and Amanda smiled, encouraged by the positive response. "We've already begun our work in several areas, and the results speak for themselves. Cleaner routes, fewer incidents, safer routes in caves and mountains and a sense of security that we all deserve. But we can't do it alone. We need your support and cooperation. Join us, and let's create a Kanto we can all be proud of."
Amanda wrapped up her speech with a flourish, raising her fist in the air. "For a safer Kanto! For a better future! Join Team Jet and make a difference!"
The crowd erupted in applause, and Amanda stepped down from the stage, mingling with the townspeople who approached her with questions and praises.
Rory and Aoki lingered at the edge of the crowd, watching the interactions closely. They could see the enthusiasm in the people's faces, they were grateful for what Amanda had done, however they were not so sure about them.
"Something is odd about them." Rory said more to himself "I don't know why, but something is not right. I think we should keep an eye on Team Jet, Team Dark and whatever and see for ourselves."
As the crowd began to disperse, Rory turned to Aoki. "Let's meet each other back here in an hour or so shall we? Lets go to speak to our parents about Prof Cedar."
Aoki nodded "Right" she said.
Rory pushed open the door to his mother's ramen restaurant, the familiar bell above the door jingling as he entered. The warm, savory aroma of freshly made ramen practically drowned him, bringing a small smile to his face that made him briefly forget about Team Jet, Team Dark and everything.
The restaurant wasn't busy, only a handful of people were having their breakfast meal, but he spotted his mother, Caroline, behind the counter, expertly preparing bowls of breakfast ramen.
"Hi Mom" Rory called out, weaving through the tables to reach her.
Caroline looked up with a small smile. "Rory? You were out on a rush this morning, how are you?"
Rory reached the counter and hopped onto a stool, he opened his pokeball releasing Silver, his Froakie, on the counter beside him. "Mom, I have something…to tell you." He said as if his brain had jammed as if unsure on what to say, he took a deep breath, a mixture of excitement and nervousness in his eyes. "I'm going on…well…an adventure with Silver and Aoki. We're going to explore Kanto and help Professor Cedar with his research on mythical Pokémon."
Caroline paused, as she cut a cabbage the size of the moon with a cleaver and looked at Rory with a mixture of surprise and pride. "An adventure, huh? Just like your father..." She set the knife down and wiped her hands on her apron.
"Your father always talked about going on adventures when he was your age," Caroline said, her voice soft with nostalgia. "I can see that same look in your eyes as I saw in him." She stroked her chin as she quickly got back to work on the cutting "I'm happy for you, Rory. This is a big step, and I know you'll make the most of it, anyway now Kanto is safer to explore now, thanks to Team Jet making Kanto safer…I heard they are done with some renovations in Mount Moon. Just don't go to Lavender Town. That is where Team Dark lives."
Rory made a small smile, deciding not to tell his mother about Team Jet, Team Dark and so on.
"If only your father were here." Caroline said, "It's a shame he's busy in a trip in Sinnoh but I think he would be proud of you."
"I also wanted to ask for your help. I want to save as much money as possible while I'm out there. Could you help me manage my savings?" Rory said "You know that I am not exactly the most financial intelligent person ever."
Caroline chuckled, as she reached out to pat Rory's head. "Of course, sweetheart. I'll keep your earnings safe and make sure you have what you need when you come back, I could also buy you some things if you wish that can help you on your journey. And don't worry about your meals on the road. I'll pack you some food for you to take with you."
Rory laughed. "Thanks, Mom."
Caroline glanced at Silver, who was watching the exchange with bright, curious eyes. "And you, little one, take good care of my boy, okay?"
Silver croaked in response, puffing out his chest proudly.
Caroline straightened up and looked around the restaurant that was beginning to fill up. "Well, it looks like we're about to get even busier, but before you go, how about a special bowl of ramen for my brave adventurer and his partner? A little brunch if I may?"
Rory's eyes lit up. "That sounds perfect, Mom."
Caroline returned to the kitchen, and soon, she brought out two steaming bowls of ramen. Rory and Silver dug in with gusto, savoring the delicious, comforting meal.
As they ate, Caroline watched them with a tender smile. "Remember, Rory, no matter where your journey takes you, you'll always have a home here. And I'll be waiting to hear all about your adventures. And if you run into any problems call me or the authorities or even Team Jet."
Rory nodded, his heart full. "I'll make you proud, Mom. I promise."
After finishing their meal, Rory hugged his mother tightly. With Silver perched on his shoulder, he waved goodbye and stepped out of the restaurant, ready to embark on his journey. The future was uncertain, but with his mother's support and Silver by his side, Rory felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Aoki entered her home, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves. She clutched Blaze's Poké Ball in her hand, feeling the warmth of the little Tepig inside. The house was quiet, as her father usually worked late into the evening, but today he had come home early for an important meeting.
She found her father, Hiro, sitting at his large desk in the living room, engrossed in a stack of business reports. His neatly combed hair and tailored suit made him look every bit the successful businessman he was. Aoki took a deep breath and walked over to him.
"Dad, can we talk for a minute?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
Hiro looked up, surprised to see her. He set his papers aside and gave her a warm smile. "Of course, Aoki. What's on your mind?"
Aoki took a seat across from him and released Blaze from his Poké Ball. The Tepig appeared with a bright flash, landing on her lap and looking up at Hiro with curious eyes.
"Dad, I've decided to go on an adventure with Blaze…and Rory. We're going to travel around Kanto and help Professor Cedar with his research on mythical Pokémon."
Hiro's smile faltered slightly, replaced by a look of concern. "An adventure? That sounds… dangerous, Aoki. Are you sure about this?"
Aoki nodded, her determination shining through. "I'm sure, Dad. This is something I need to do. I want to see the world, discover new Pokémon, and make a difference…Like mom…Plus, I'll have Blaze with me to keep me safe."
Hiro sighed, leaning back in his chair. "I understand. You've always been so independent and strong-willed, just like your mother." He paused, looking thoughtful. "I won't lie, Aoki, I'm nervous about this. But I know I can't hold you back." He said with a small smile "Your mother one time went out on an adventure, and she came back 2 days later wearing nothing but a dress made out of leaves. That was the day I fell in love with her."
Aoki's eyes softened. "Thank you, Dad. I promise I'll be careful."
Hiro reached into a drawer in his desk and pulled out what looked to be two coins and what appeared to be two weird looking metallic helmets with too many wires. He placed them gently on the table in front of Aoki. "These are for you and your friend Rory. The amulet coins will help you earn more money from battles, and the Exp. Shares will ensure your Pokémon grow strong alongside you."
Aoki's eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. "Dad, these are amazing! Thank you so much."
Hiro stood up and walked around the desk, pulling Aoki into a tight hug. "I'm proud of you, Aoki. You're going to do great things, I just know it. Promise me you'll stay in touch and let me know you're safe. Promise to call me every day, and please stay out of Lavendar town…please?"
Aoki hugged him back, feeling a mixture of love and determination. "I promise, Dad. I'll call whenever I can."
Hiro stepped back, placing a hand on Blaze's head and giving the Tepig a gentle pat. "Take good care of my daughter, Blaze."
Blaze snorted happily, as if to say, "I will!"
With a final smile and a wave, Aoki left the house, her heart lighter than it had been. She felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing she had her father's support and the tools he had given her. As she walked down the path to meet Rory, Blaze trotting beside her, she couldn't help but feel that this adventure was the start of something truly extraordinary.