The early morning light filtered through the sparse trees at the edge of Oreburgh City, casting long shadows across the rocky terrain. The distant clanging of mining equipment echoed through the crisp air, blending with the occasional chirps of wild Pokémon.

In the clearing behind the Pokémon Center, I led my team through their training regimen, the sound of our efforts almost drowned out by the town's industrial hum. Nova's flames flared brightly as he practiced Flame Wheel, while Aster blitzed from one rock to another aiming to raise her top speed. Aria spun intricate webs between the rocks, honing her String Shot while attempting to strengthen her webbing, and Rukia dashed around, practicing her Feint Attack, her fur catching the sunlight with its shimmery glean.

Having gotten my team to work on their moves, I had decided the most beneficial thing to work on was not my own body, but the ability I seem to have manifested.

Aura…

Sitting cross-legged on the grass, attempting to channel my aura as I had during the battle with Team Rocket and the fossil Pokémon.

Closing my eyes, and taking deep breaths, the warm feeling of the feather pendant against my chest a constant thrum indicating I was doing something right.

"Come on, Rusk. You can do this," muttering to myself, willing myself to recapture that fleeting feeling. Just as I began to sense a flicker of energy in my chest, my phone rung loudly, shattering my concentration. Damn, and I was so close too.

Opening my eyes with a frustrated sigh, I grabbed my phone. The screen displayed a message from Professor Rowan. "Hmm? What could Rowan need so soon?" I muttered, swiping to read the message. As I read through the details, a mixture of excitement and apprehension stirred within me.

From: Professor Rowan

Subject: Unusual unrest in Eterna Forest.

Rusk,

I have a new task for you. There have been some unusual changes in the ecosystem of Eterna Forest. A colleague of mine needs someone to help him investigate an issue in the forest.

My mind flashed back to my recent ordeal with Team Galactic, the pain of my injuries, and the fear of that drugged-up Granbull. The memory of being cornered and attacked was still vivid, but I knew I couldn't let fear hold me back. This mission could be a chance to regain some confidence. I took a deep breath and typed a reply, "What's the full job?".

A few moments later, my phone buzzed again. Rowan had sent more details.

From: Professor Rowan

The task was sent to me by the local Ecologist in Eterna, a man named Dr. Malcom Silvers.

He monitors and studies the wildlife in Eterna forest for any abrupt changes or new species migrating there, recently while monitoring one of the more dangerous sectors of the woods, he's noticed a lack of food and more disturbingly, a lack of Pokémon in that sector. He did some digging around and found that most of the missing Pokémon seem to have left that territory to search for new sources of food, which leads me to one of the more pressing issues.

Trainer attacks from wild Pokémon and stealing food and other items. Now, normally this isn't a large issue, but the attacks have been more focused on the routes cleared for beginner and youngster trainers.

What I want you to do, is accompany Dr. Silvers around the forest to find out what has caused the Pokémon to search for new food sources, helping any trainers lost or under attack get out of the woods.

While there isn't any proper reward for this task, you are allowed to keep any items you find.

I read the message carefully. The mission sounded a bit off, but at least he didn't make it sound like the last one, which was 'totally safe'.

Doing a quick map check on my phone and seeing the quickest trip to Eterna forest would take around 3 weeks, only having a single rest stop, a smaller Pokémon center near the river coming from Mt. Coronet would be my only bit of civilization until I meet up with Dr. Silvers.

Sighing as this job was seemingly seeming a bit safer and more helpful in terms of the expectations than my first one (Learned to always doubt good rewards).

Sending my reply, a reluctant yes. While it seemed simple, I have an eerie feeling it will be anything but. How I wish for the timeline of this world to have matched up more with the games… I know those like the back of my hand…

Standing up, I looked at my team, who had stopped to watch me. "Alright, team. Looks like we've got a new mission." Taking a moment to explain everything to them, getting determined chirps and barks back from them and their eager faces and ready stances boosted my own resolve.

This mission was a step forward, a way to reclaim the confidence I had lost and prove to myself that I could still handle whatever Bullshit life decided to throw at me.

One simple torture session wasn't enough to hold me back. That would take at least three sessions!

Though I'd much rather have had none you know?

XxxxX

With my new mission from Professor Rowan on my mind, I went back into the Pokémon Center to talk with everyone.

Watching he automatic doors slide open with a soft whoosh, I stepped inside, greeted by the familiar hum of activity. Trainers and their Pokémon moved about, some getting treatment from Nurse Joy, others planning their next adventures. All of them however, clogging up the lobby. Forcing me to weave through all of them, a frustrating as it was I made it through and into the cafeteria looking for my friends.

I spotted Ash, Dawn, and Brock seated at a corner table, deep in conversation. As I approached, Ash looked up and waved me over. "Hey, Rusk! What's up?"

"Hey guys, I've got a new job from Professor Rowan," I said, taking a seat.

"He needs me to help a colleague of his investigate some unusual changes in Eterna Forest. It's not dangerous, but it's starting to become an issue for the wildlife and some of the less experienced trainers."

Dawn leaned forward, her eyes wide with curiosity. "What kind of changes?"

"Something's been consuming massive amounts of food, causing Pokémon to move closer to the outer edges of the forest where beginner's travel. Rowan wants me to help them out and figure out what's going on deeper in the forest."

Brock nodded thoughtfully. "Sounds worrisome. Just make sure you stay safe and keep us updated if you need help."

"Thanks, Brock. I will." I glanced over at Dawn. "By the way, how are your preparations for the Floaroma Town contest going?"

Dawn's face lit up. "Really well! I've been practicing new combinations with Piplup and Buneary. I'm know we'll do great!"

"I'm sure you will," I replied with a smile. "I'm planning to be there to watch this time, I can't wait to see it!"

Ash gave me a thumbs-up. "You'll have to let us know what happens when we meet up again. You'll do great, Rusk."

With our conversation wrapping up, I stood to start getting ready. "I need to pack my gear and check on my Pokémon. I'll catch up with you all later."

"Good luck, Rusk," Dawn said, giving me a thumbs-up. "And we should meet up in an hour to restock our supplies!"

Agreeing to meet outside the center for the impromptu shopping trip, as I realised I really was low on healing supplies, I nodded and made my way back through the clusterfuck of the lobby, feeling bad for Nurse Joy as it really was crowded today.

Making my way to the stairs leading to my room, I couldn't help but feel a bit of excitement about this job. This mission was an opportunity for a new teammate. Or, rather the path to Eterna was a chance for a new teammate. Your boy's gonna get himself a Gible, or at least attempt to…

Back in my room, I packed my bag, ensuring everything was there. Nova watched curiously from the bed, his flames flickering softly. His curiosity made me smile; he always seemed eager to help… or fuck with me… it's generally a toss up between the two.

Though, I don't remember most Cyndaquil being so mischievous in any pokedex entry, must just be his nature I suppose… does that make his nature impish or naughty? I guess it doesn't really matter right? its not an in-game stat that determines his specialty.

"All set, bud?" I asked, giving Nova a head rub. The fire-type chirped in response, his flames burning a bit brighter with more heat than usual. Hovering my hand over his back, getting a confused head tilt from my partner.

Chuckling as I pet him. He's definitely giving off more heat than before, he might evolve soon according to Rowan's notes.

Grinning to myself as I scoop him up and place him in his spot, the spot he most definitely will be to big to rest once he does evolve.

A feeling of unease creeped up once more prompting me to recheck all of my stuff: a journal for notes, the charger for my phone Rowan made, and enough Poké Balls to handle any unexpected encounters. I already made sure my phone was fully charged. Each item I packed had a purpose, a lesson learned from past lessons from Rowan… so why did it feel as though I was missing something…

Shaking my head. I'm just getting in my own head. Nothing bad is going to happen this time Rusk. You're stronger, your partners are stronger… plus if you figure out what you need to buy you can do it on the shopping trip with Dawn…

Scrunching my eyebrows together, it's not a date is it? I mean, a date would have to be an agreed upon thing, not a shopping trip right?

Shaking my head, no way is it a date. Who the hell would want to date me of all people, I'm a walking case of parental issues. Plus, how the hell would I explain to anyone that I'm not actually from here if they don't have the knowledge like Rowan does?

Putting my hands on my face, I slapped my cheeks a couple times. 'Get yourself together Rusk! It's a shopping trip and nothing else. Go and get ready before you're late'

XxxxX

Making my way to the meeting spot outside the Pokémon Center where Dawn was waiting, I could see she was talking to Piplup, who seemed very excited about the trip. When she noticed me, she waved and I walked over.

"Ready to go?" Dawn asked with a cheerful smile, sliding Piplup's ball back into her bag.

"Yeah, let's get this done," I replied, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity about the day ahead.

We headed towards the shopping district, where a series of shops lined the streets, offering everything from camping supplies to Pokémon food and since this is Oreburgh city we're talking about, an unhealthy amount of rock shops...

The air was filled with the hustle and bustle of trainers preparing to continue their journeys, and the lively chatter of people bartering for the best deals, and outraged cries at overpriced fruit… truly, markets are the same wherever you go.

"First stop, the camping supply store," Dawn announced, leading the way, "If you aren't gonna be travelling with us, you won't need as many rations but its better to have extra than to have less and have to forage for your food."

As we entered the store, the smell of new gear and the sight of neatly stacked shelves greeted us. Dawn picked up a few items, inspecting them closely before adding them to her basket.

"What do you usually get?" she asked, glancing at me as she added another box of chocolate into her basket. Blushing as she noticed my amused look at her mostly chocolate based 'supplies'.

"I usually just go with the Rowan Training special, enough dry rations for a two-way trip between the destination, a backup supply of water if I can't find a stream, extra berries for my team so their meals are more nutritious for them… oh, and extra socks…" I said, grabbing a pair of warm looking socks and some high-energy freeze-dried food. "Oh! And of course, extra Poké Balls. You never know when you might need them. to capture a new teammate or use one to help escape a wild Pokémon."

Dawn glanced at her basket slowly, "aha… yeah, rations… boring. Plain. Rations… ha…" speaking slowly as she sheepishly chuckle.

Looking down at my basket compared to hers, realizing I didn't have to limit what I bought (within reason) anymore since my mother was no longer going to go out of her way to judge and berate me, I thoughtfully glanced around to see if this world had anything similar to an old favourite snack of mine.

Looking over at the shelf, a yellow bag caught my eye. "Pikachu pieces?"

Picking up the bag to get a closer look, as the candy sounded very familiar to an old favourite candy of mine from Earth, namely 'Reese's Pieces'.

While very on the nose, it seemed they were in fact damn near the same thing. Although, instead of the orange ones, they had red, yellow, black, and brown. The main colors of a Pikachu.

Dawn, hearing me, looked at what I had grabbed. "Oh, you like 'Pikachu Pieces'? I don't think I've ever had any before, are they any good?"

Chuckling to myself, "No I've never had 'Pikachu Pieces'. I have had something very similar from in my old home co- Region, they were called 'Reese's Pieces' and they look almost exactly like this, just no red or black. They were orange yellow and brown… I haven't had any since I was just a kid…" smiling to myself as I set them in my basket, alongside the basic rations and essentials Rowan drilled into my head.

Nodding in response, Dawn looked back over at me in curiosity, "What Pokémon is a Reese?"

Instantly I had to hold back my laughter, "It's – It's not, Reese was the guy who made the candy, in fact, most of the candy from my home region was either based on the name of their creators. Like Hershey bars, or M&M's."

Pouting at me, "Well how was I supposed to know that? All of the candy around here tends to be named after Pokémon or the towns and cities they were made in!"

Frowning in thought, as she tilted her head cutely at me, "What region are you from? I don't think you've ever told us?"

Ah… fuck… how best to answer this without completely lying… "Ah… I'm from a town called Brightfield in Canada, I doubt you would know about it, it's a pretty secluded region so it wouldn't surprise me."

Dawn nodded to herself in thought, "your right, I don't think I've ever heard of the Canada region… What's it like there?"

Picturing my old home in my head, "The co- Region, is Beautiful… a giant mountain range longer than the one in Sinnoh by a long shot, on the western half of the region. The area I'm from is known for the large sprawling plains, broken up by the forests and occasional hill and gorgeous rivers…"

Pausing in thought as I remembered the beauty of my home, only to realise that I wouldn't give up this new life for anything, "… The town I come from, Brightfield. It's more a village than anything. It's a large farming community… the people there were mostly kind and friendly, a few weren't. but that didn't matter, anytime something bad happened in the community, everyone stepped up to help out."

A small smile grew on my face as I chatted about my home, talking about what it was like to dawn as we shopped, doing my best to leave out any otherworldly things, like the lack of Pokémon for one.

We spent the next hour picking out various supplies, comparing items, and joking about our different approaches to camping. Dawn was meticulous, ensuring she had everything down to the last detail, apparently just like in the show, she had majorly overpacked when she originally set out for her journey, while I was more about the bare essentials.

At the Pokémon food section, we both spent extra time selecting the best food for our teams. Dawn picked out a variety of treats for Piplup and Buneary, while I grabbed a mix of high-protein and high-energy food for Nova, Aster, Aria, and Rukia.

"Piplup loves these," Dawn said, holding up a bag of specialty Poké treats. "He always gets excited when I bring them out."

I chuckled. "Nova's the same with anything spicy. He's got quite the fiery appetite." Ba-Dum-Tiss~

"Figures," Dawn said with a grin. "at least your Pokémon like normal food."

"Hey, just because I used to mix chocolate milk and ice tea in grade school doesn't make me weird!" I joked, grabbing a variety of treats for my team. I couldn't be the only one with some goodies on the long trek to Eterna forest.

With our baskets full, we headed to the checkout and made our purchases. Dawn handed over some cash, and I did the same, feeling a sense of satisfaction as we left the store with our supplies.

"Next stop, the Poké Mart," Dawn said, leading the way again.

After reaching said mart, we stocked up on healing items, namely potions and healing berries, Dawn was surprisingly meticulous, checking the freshness of the potions. Not something most people would do.

"Don't want to be caught with expired Potions in a pinch," she said, flashing a grin at me.

I smiled back, "Definitely not. I've been there. Trust me, it's not pretty."

"Oh really?" Dawn raised an eyebrow. "What happened? Did you try to heal Nova with an expired Potion and it backfired?"

"Worse," I said, laughing. "Imagine Nova covered in sticky, expired light blue Potion goo. He was so grossed out, he refused to come out of his Poké Ball for hours."

Dawn burst out laughing, "Oh jeeze, Mom had just said it made your Pokémon get really mad but never really told me why! I can picture it now, Nova all gunked up staring at you in disgust!" she was full on belly laughing at this point, and it was starting to draw out my own laughter.

"Hey, I like my adventures with a side of adrenaline, not so much goo though." I replied, still laughing.

We both laughed, sharing more stories of our past misadventures. The ease of our conversation made the shopping trip enjoyable, and I appreciated the chance to spend more time with Dawn, making friends was something I wasn't great at, so it was nice to see it wasn't an issue here.

After we finished at the Poké Mart, we decided to take a break at a cozy café nearby. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wafted through the air as we entered, finding a corner table to settle in.

An older lady came to take our order as we sat. Dawn ordered a latte, and I went for a hot chocolate. As we waited for our drinks, we continued to chat about our upcoming plans, while Nova and Piplup ventures around the café.

"So, you've got that contest coming up in Floaroma Town, when is it exactly? I don't want to miss this one." I asked, taking a sip of my hot chocolate once it arrived.

Dawn nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, I've been practicing a lot." Tapping her chin in thought, "It's roughly in a month, so as long as the job in the forest doesn't take too long, you should have more than enough time to make it." She wagged her finger at me in mock anger. "So you better not miss it, mister!" A smile broke the façade of anger as she laughed.

Sitting in silence as we enjoyed our drinks in each other's company, a stray thought, one that had been repeatedly bashed by my friends, floated into my head.

"Sorry I missed your last contest, Dawn. Team Galactic really threw a wrench into my plans."

Dawn waved it off. "No worries, Rusk. It wasn't your fault, I'm just glad you're okay." She smiled at me, a gentle look in her eye.

I nodded, feeling a bit more at ease. "I promise I'll be there for your next contest. No way am I missing this one!"

Dawn smiled. "Thanks, Rusk. That means a lot."

Nova and Piplup, who had been exploring the café, returned to our table. Nova sniffed at my drink curiously before settling down next to me, while Piplup playfully nibbled at Dawn's shoelaces.

Breaking the comfortable silence between us once again, this time with a less somber topic, "Remember that time you shoved the Pokémon Center door open and broke my nose?" I asked with a grin.

Dawn laughed, her cheeks turning pink. "Hey, you shouldn't have been standing right behind the door! That was your fault!"

I shook my head with a chuckle. "Yeah, because it's totally my fault you decided to rush into the Pokémon Center like a Tauros in a china shop."

Dawn rolled her eyes, but she was smiling. "You're never going to let me live that down, are you?"

"Nope, not as long as I'm around," I teased, sticking my tongue out at her.

We spent another hour at the café, sharing jokes and just having a good time with one another.

"You know, I've been thinking," Dawn said, nervously leaning forward, a small smile growing on her face. "Maybe after my contest, maybe we can do something fun to celebrate?"

I smiled, feeling a warmth in my chest. "I'd like that. It's a plan."

As we got up to leave, Dawn gave me a glance. "You know, I've been looking forward to spending more time together. You're a great friend."

"I enjoy hanging out with you too Dawn, It's always fun. Plus, its really fun having someone to bug." Smiling at her as I spoke.

Sticking her tongue out at me in response, "Yeah, yeah… Let's head back so you can get ready for tomorrow," she said, her usual enthusiasm returning.

Later that night, after saying goodnight to Dawn and the others, I found myself sitting outside the Pokémon Center. The cool night air was refreshing, and the stars above provided a serene atmosphere. I sat quietly, lost in thought.

Just as I was about to stand up, I heard footsteps approaching. Looking up, I saw Ash and Brock heading my way. Ash had his hands in his pockets, and Brock was carrying a small tray with some snacks.

"Hey, Rusk," Ash called out, a grin on his face. "Mind if we join you?"

"Not at all," I replied, smiling as they took a seat next to me.

Brock handed me a snack from the tray. "Thought you might like something to munch on. It's been a long day for everyone. You're taking off tomorrow and Ash has his battle as well, so we figured we'd hang out with you before you had to leave."

"Thanks, Brock," I said, appreciating the gesture.

"So, ready for your big mission?" Ash asked, leaning back, and looking up at the stars.

"Yeah, I think so," I replied, feeling a bit more at ease with their company. "I'm looking forward to it, well maybe not the angry Pokémon part, but definitely the chance to catch a new team member." I finished jokingly, drawing out a couple chuckled from both of them.

"You'll do great, Rusk," Ash said confidently. "Plus, once we meet up in Floaroma, maybe we can have a proper battle!" Grinning as he finished speaking, pumping his hand in the air in challenge.

Grinning back at him, "Sounds like fun, just make sure your prepared for your defeat Ash!" a couple of chuckles escaped us as we shook on it.

Brock shook his head in amusement as he watched, "Alright, enough about the future. How about we share some old stories?"

We sat in comfortable silence for a while taking turns telling stories, a guilty feeling rose in my stomach every time I had to alter a tale, adding in a wild Pokémon instead of a wild animal, changing the names of places or things to match this world better. I hated lying like this, but I don't want to risk loosing my friends over something like this.

Shaking off my worries for the moment, we shared more stories, laughing and teasing each other like old friends. The night air was filled with our camaraderie, and I felt truly grateful for their friendship even if some of it was built on a lie.

As the night grew later, our laughter turned to more serious conversations. We talked about our goals, our fears, and the challenges we'd faced. It was reassuring to know that we all had our struggles, and that we were there for each other.

"You know, Rusk," Brock said, his tone thoughtful. "You've come a long way since we first met. You're stronger and more confident. Just keep believing in yourself."

"Thanks, Brock," I said, feeling a swell of gratitude. "You guys have helped me a lot. I couldn't have done it without you."

Ash nodded. "We're a team, Rusk. Always will be."

As the night came to an end, we made our way back inside. I felt a bit more at peace, though I think the next time I meet up with everyone, I should truthfully tell them where I come from…

Nodding to myself as I got ready for bed, sliding Nova off the pillow and down to my side. I went to sleep dreaming of an old friend and what he might've done in my situation.

XxxxX

As the first light of dawn broke over the horizon, the soft hues of the morning sun painted the sky in shades of pink and orange. The trees at the edge of Oreburgh City cast long shadows across the ground, and a gentle spring breeze rustled the leaves.

I stood at the outskirts of the city, my Silph-Co bag slung over my shoulder, ready to head out on my new mission. Nova, Aster, Aria, and Rukia stood by my side, each of them eager to travel the road once again.

Ash, Dawn, and Brock all stood around me as we started to say our goodbyes.

Ash stepped forward first, his hands on his hips, exuding his usual confidence. "Alright, Rusk, here's some advice for you. When you're trying to catch Pokémon, make sure to observe their patterns first. Sometimes the best approach is to wait for the right moment. And always have your team ready for a quick response. You never know when a rare Pokémon might appear, especially on a job like this!"

"Thanks, Ash. I'll remember that," I replied, appreciating his guidance. Nova chirped in agreement, getting a pat on the back from Pikachu, who had climbed up my shoulder and rubbed his face against mine, making my hair get staticky.

Brock nodded in agreement, stepping up next. "And if you do encounter any aggressive wild Pokémon, stay calm and don't provoke them. Sometimes it's best to observe and understand their behavior before making any moves. Use your Pokémon to help you if things get tricky. They've got your back, just like we do."

"I'll keep that in mind, Brock. Thanks for the advice." Aster flapped her wings, circling around Brock before perching on the shoulder Pikachu had just jumped off of back onto Ash's head causing us both to chuckle.

Dawn was the last to step forward, a small, shy smile on her face. She held out a small ticket, the paper fluttering slightly in the morning breeze. "Here, I got this for you. It's a ticket for my contest in Floaroma Town. I wanted to make sure you'd be there."

Taking the ticket from her, I felt a warmth in my chest. "Thanks, Dawn. I wouldn't miss it for the world." Aria clicked her pincers in a friendly manner, and Rukia nuzzled Dawn's leg, both expressing their farewells.

Her smile widened, and for a moment, our eyes met. Giving her a playful wink, I was about to say something but was cutoff by my partner, "Cynnn-DA?" he chirped out from my hood, as if to say 'are we leaving yet?'

"Yeah, yeah. Don't get your flames in a twist, we're just saying goodbye." Huffing as I spoke,

"Make sure you take good care of him alright Nova?" Dawn called out, her voice carrying a mix of worry and teasing. "I'm counting on you to keep him out of trouble!"

"Cyn-Da-Quil!" he chirped out methodically in response, nodding as if it were the obvious outcome.

Shaking my head, as I muttered "Someone's gonna get double the training after this…"

With the ticket safely tucked into my bag, I looked at each of my friends, feeling a swell of gratitude. "Thank you all. I'll see you soon in Floaroma."

Without thinking, I pulled each of them into a hug, one by one. Ash patted my back, Brock gave me a reassuring squeeze, and Dawn hugged me tightly, her embrace warm and comforting. Each one of my Pokémon calling out and saying their goodbyes, even the brat tucked in my hood.

As I turned to leave, I took one last look at my friends. They stood there, smiling, and waving as I walked away. My Pokémon fell into step beside me, Rukia leading the way with her coat glimmering in the early morning light.

"Take care, Rusk!" Ash called out, waving energetically as Pikachu stood on his head copying his partner.

"Stay safe!" Brock added with a supportive smile, as Sudowoodo popped out of the ball and waved us off.

"Don't forget the contest!" Dawn reminded me, her voice filled with both encouragement and anticipation, Piplup shouting something at Cyndaquil who merely waved it off from inside my hood.

With a final wave, I set off down the path, the sun rising higher in the sky, casting a golden glow over the landscape. My Pokémon walked alongside me all five of us ready to continue striking out on our own.

XxxxX

So how did you all like chapter 10? I wanted to slow things down a bit and work on bonding Rusk with his friends a bit more as the rushed travel from Jubilife to Oreburgh had left them little time to truly get to know one another, as Rusk was to worried about getting attacked again.

Anyways, the next couple of chapter will be more focused on Rusk's training and some adventures one his way to Eterna forest. I'm hoping to give my plan's some justice, and make it enjoyable for you all as well.

Finally, Chapter question for today.

What Legendary grouping is your favorite? My favorite legendary group has to be the regi's purely because of the movie. ÜN ÜN ÜN!