Chapter 14 Wishing stars:
As the sun set, Hop gazed skyward, eyes wide with wonder as a flash of light streaked through the darkening sky. "Look! Something's falling from the sky!" He pointed, the excitement in his voice tangible. Tom knew precisely what was coming next: the wishing stars, just like in the game. They landed a short distance from where Hop and Gloria had battled.
Tom's expression was calm, a hint of a smirk crossing his lips. "Wishing stars, huh?" he murmured, almost to himself. He didn't share Hop's enthusiasm. Gigantamaxing never interested him much, though the idea of humans doing it like in those fanfictions made him chuckle inwardly. "Imagine a giant Marnie," he thought, trying not to laugh at the image. "It'd be legendary." But logic prevailed; if humans could Gigantamax, it would already be common knowledge.
Hop's eyes shone as he picked up one of the stars. "With this, I'll be able to Gigantamax my Pokémon one day!" he exclaimed. His excitement was infectious, and Gloria nodded, sharing his glee.
Professor Magnolia stepped forward, her expression patient. "Hold on there, Hop. To harness the power of a wishing star, it must be fashioned into a Dynamax Band first." Her eyes were warm as she shared this essential tidbit.
Before anyone could respond, Sonia approached, a bright smile on her face. "Seems like I made it just in time," she said, eyeing the small group. The sun had nearly disappeared behind the horizon, and the first few stars were beginning to twinkle. "It's getting late. How about we all stay for dinner at Gran's house?"
The offer was met with eager nods. Dinner was a cozy affair at Professor Magnolia's home, filled with laughter and stories. Tom found himself chatting with Sonia, catching up on everything since their last meeting. It felt refreshing to talk freely, to reconnect with someone who shared his passion for Pokémon knowledge.
After the meal, Tom reached for his guitar case, a familiar weight in his hands. With practiced ease, he tuned the strings and strummed a few notes, the sound resonating warmly in the room. He took a breath and began to play "Dream On" by Aerosmith, his voice soft and full of emotion. The song was like a quiet release, a reminder of who he was and how far he'd come. When he finished, the room fell silent for a moment before Gloria, Sonia, and Hop burst into applause.
"That was amazing, Tom," Gloria said, her Scottish lilt lending warmth to her words. Sonia nodded, a soft smile on her lips.
"You've got a real talent there," Hop added, eyes wide with admiration.
The night ended with them heading to their respective rooms, the anticipation of the next day thick in the air.
The following morning, the kitchen was filled with the scent of fresh bread and tea. As everyone sat down for breakfast, Professor Magnolia brought out two small, gleaming devices. "These are your Dynamax Bands," she said, handing one each to Gloria and Hop. "These will let you harness the energy of the wishing stars."
Hop's eyes lit up. "Brilliant! This would've been handy against those mysterious Pokémon we saw in the fog yesterday."
Sonia's curiosity was piqued. "Tell me more about those Pokémon." Her tone was serious, a hint of excitement in her voice.
Hop recounted the encounter with the ethereal wolves, embellishing the story with grand gestures. Tom listened, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "We'll need to find out more about them," Sonia said thoughtfully, her gaze distant.
Hop, always eager, was quick to announce, "Right, I'll be waiting for you two at the station!" With that, he was off, a blur of energy.
"I'll catch up later," Tom told Gloria, explaining his need to check on his newly captured Rookidee.
Once outside, Tom released Rookidee from its Pokéball. The small bird fluttered around, finally perching on his shoulder and nuzzling affectionately. "Good to see you're feeling better," Tom whispered, stroking its feathers. He watched as it demonstrated its moves, confirming there were no lingering injuries. Satisfied, Tom gave a mischievous grin. "Want to play a little trick on my friends?" he telepathically conveyed to Rookidee.
The bird chirped a laugh, understanding the playful intent.
Tom teleported straight to Wedgehurst Station, Rookidee still perched on his shoulder. He settled on the ground, guitar in hand, and played a few melodies as he waited. Not long after, Hop arrived, skidding to a halt, eyes wide.
"How did you get here before me?" Hop sputtered, catching his breath.
Tom smirked. "Found a portal that dropped me right here," he said with a wink.
Gloria appeared moments later, and soon, their mothers arrived with camping kits, wishing them luck. Tom's heart tugged as he sent a message to his parents, letting them know he was safe and missed them.
With everything packed and farewells exchanged, the trio boarded the train, anticipation thrumming in the air for the journey that lay ahead.