The Big City
We entered Lumiose City just before the crack of dawn, dodging any unwanted solar-related wake-up calls. The journey had been long, and we hadn't exactly arrived fresh-faced and spotless. So, we sucked it up and braved the hellishly cold waters of a nearby stream, scrubbing away the dirt and grime that clung stubbornly to us like a second skin.
The frigid bath wasn't just a wake-up call—it was a slap in the face by the unforgiving hand of nature. My breath fogged the air as I cursed every second of it. Luna, meanwhile, seemed unfazed, her fur shedding water far more effectively than my skin ever could. Her stoic expression only added insult to injury.
Once relatively clean, I decided it was time to retire the remnants of my old attire. No sense in striding into a city as sprawling and sophisticated as Lumiose looking like a caveman who had recently discovered fire. Fortunately, the clothing I'd "liberated" from the poachers offered some decent options.
Holding up my pants, was my new belt which Luna's Poke ball hung proudly from its spot on my hip. The jeans were a standard blue—nothing flashy—and paired with a black, long-sleeved shirt that was soft to the touch. Over that, I added a navy jacket that felt like cotton. The ensemble was a bit oversized for my current body. The jeans bunched awkwardly around my combat boots—the only relic of my previous world that had survived this long. They were built for punishment, and they'd earned their place in my life. Meanwhile, the jacket's sleeves draped past my hands until I rolled them up.
Still, I didn't look half bad. The mirror wasn't there to confirm it, but I told myself as much anyway. The fit emphasized my broad chest and hinted at my biceps beneath the jacket. The too-long jeans and sleeves almost gave the impression that the look was intentional—like a fashion statement rather than a poor fit.
Satisfied, I turned my attention to our surroundings.
The first thing that struck me about Lumiose City was how clean it was. Cars hummed quietly along the streets, their exhaust far less intrusive than anything short of an electric vehicle. There was no litter skittering across the cobblestones, no plastic bags tangled in tree branches. And no sign of homelessness every couple of blocks—a sad staple of my old world.
The city was alive with greenery. Trees lined the sidewalks, their leaves whispering softly in the morning breeze. Balconies were adorned with lush vines and bursts of colorful flowers, their vibrant hues standing out against the muted tones of the buildings. Even the lampposts seemed to have been designed with nature in mind, twisting elegantly upward like iron saplings.
What Lumiose lacked in towering skyscrapers, it more than made up for in charm. The tallest structure was the Eiffel Tower look-alike at its center, a landmark I recognized instantly. Its silhouette against the dawn sky was nothing short of breathtaking.
The peaceful ambiance of the city held me spellbound—until a ping from my pocket snapped me back to reality.
I retrieved the device from my jeans, blinking at the notification on the screen. It had connected to Lumiose City's Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi. I paused, letting that sink in.
"This place really is paradise," I muttered under my breath.
Glancing to my side, I saw Luna. Her fur, still slightly damp from the morning's bath, swayed gently in the breeze. She stood rooted to the spot, her eyes wide with wonder. Her gaze darted from the intricate streetlamps to the waterway that ran through the city. Even the cobblestones beneath her feet seemed to hold her attention.
Seeing her like that—so captivated, so alive—brought a smile to my face. It was a rare moment of vulnerability, her usual composure giving way to raw curiosity. She didn't notice me watching, too absorbed in the sights and sounds of the city.
I turned my attention back to the device in my hand. My original plan had been to wander aimlessly until I stumbled across a sign or someone who could point me toward Professor Sycamore's lab. But now, with free internet at my fingertips, the game had changed.
A few quick searches later, I had our destination marked on the map. I looked back at Luna, her ears perked and tail swishing ever so slightly as she took in the cityscape.
"Come on," I said, gesturing for her to follow. "The lab's this way."
She turned to me, her curiosity tempered by her usual calm demeanor, and nodded. Together, we set off toward the heart of Lumiose City, seeing as our destination was quite literally on the other side of the town. 'Praise be free Wi-Fi.'
…
The morning sun crept over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the cobblestone streets of Lumiose City. The city was awakening, and the symphony of life began to play. Vendors clattered as they arranged fresh produce and wares in neat displays. A distant bell chimed, signaling the opening of a bakery, its warm aroma of fresh croissants and pain au chocolat mixing with the crisp morning air. The subtle clink of ceramic cups against saucers emerged from nearby cafés, underscored by the hiss of espresso machines preparing the first coffee of the day.
Luna and I walked side by side through the wide, tree-lined boulevard. My boots tapped against the street with a rhythmic cadence, contrasting with Luna's near-silent footfalls. Her scarlet eyes, sharp and vibrant, flitted from one detail to the next. Her ears twitched and shifted constantly, betraying her sensitivity to the unfamiliar symphony of the city. When a car engine rumbled to life nearby, her ears flattened instinctively, and she shot the offending vehicle a wary glance, a hint of distaste flickering across her face.
"It's just a car," I murmured, barely suppressing a chuckle.
She didn't dignify me with a response, her muzzle lifting instead as a new scent caught her attention. The aroma of baked goods drifting from a corner bakery seemed to enchant her. Her nose quivered slightly as she inhaled deeply, her expression softening into one of momentary wonder. A small, rare smile tugged at the corners of her mouth before she masked it with her usual stoic demeanor.
As we passed an electric billboard mounted high above the street, it flickered to life, illuminating the morning with a burst of color and sound. A video looped on the screen, showcasing a Pokémon Contest. A dazzling trainer and their Sylveon twirled in unison, both bedecked in shimmering outfits that caught the light. Luna stopped mid-step, her ears swiveling toward the sound. She tilted her head, her inquisitive gaze locked onto the screen. The flash of lights and the synchronized movements seemed to both puzzle and intrigue her.
"What are they doing?" she asked, her voice low, as though the answer might shatter the magic of the moment.
"Pokémon Contests," I replied. "It's a kind of competition. More about style and flair than strength."
"Hmph," she muttered, but her eyes lingered on the screen a moment longer before we resumed our pace.
The city, I realized, was a strange world to her. It was her first taste of human civilization on this scale, and it showed in the way she marveled at the smallest details. The soft glow of streetlights still flickering in the early morning, the faint rustle of leaves on the neatly pruned trees, even the chatter of pedestrians bundled up against the cool breeze—all of it seemed to captivate her.
Our destination loomed at the end of the boulevard. Professor Sycamore's laboratory was both modern and welcoming, a seamless blend of sleek white walls and expansive glass panels. It stood tall yet unassuming, framed by planters overflowing with greenery and flanked by two statues of Poké Balls atop the entrance columns.
We paused just outside the gate, where Luna seemed to take in the lab's full scope for the first time. Her eyes swept across the structure, lingering on the polished plaque near the door that read, "Professor Augustine Sycamore's Laboratory."
"It's... large," she said finally, her voice tinged with both awe and hesitation. Her muzzle scrunched slightly as if trying to find the right words to express what she felt.
"No, Luna, you're just rather short," I teased, stepping forward just in time to dodge the swat she aimed at my head.
The stairs leading up to the lab were grander than they needed to be, the kind that belonged on postcards or in tourist brochures. Each step resonated faintly beneath my boots, the sound grounding in the serenity of the morning. As we climbed, I couldn't help but take in the little details—the vines curling gently along the edges of the walls, the faint hum of machinery inside blending harmoniously with the stillness of the waking city.
Beside me, Luna's ears flicked forward, her curiosity never waning. The distant chatter of voices reached us through the open windows of the lab, mingling with the soft chirping of Pidgey roosting on nearby rooftops. She glanced at me, her expression unreadable, but I could sense her unease simmering beneath her composed exterior.
Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the large oaken doors. The weight of the polished wood resisted for a moment before yielding, and a piercing squeak echoed through the now-revealed foyer. The first thing that struck me was the smell—fresh citrus interwoven with a faintly metallic tang, reminiscent of the air after a lightning storm. It was oddly invigorating, a stark contrast to the serene opulence that greeted my eyes.
The atrium was bathed in refracted light, courtesy of an enormous stained-glass window crowning the grand staircase at the center of the room. Its intricate design shimmered as the early morning sun poured through, casting splashes of color that danced over every surface. The polished tiles gleamed under the vibrant display, their forest-green hue deepening where the light failed to reach. A luxurious red carpet unfurled down the middle of the room, spreading up the staircase and into unseen hallways that branched off into other areas of the facility.
Bookshelves lined the walls, towering and stately, each brimming with colorful tomes whose spines bore titles in languages I didn't recognize. The blend of old-world charm and meticulous modernity caught me off guard—it was nothing like the layout I had seen in the games, where simplicity ruled. Here, the grandeur was palpable, each detail meticulously curated.
From one of the side rooms emerged a woman, her measured steps echoing softly against the tiles. She was shorter than me but slightly taller than Luna, not counting ears. Her hair was a striking, organic shade of blue that cascaded down her back in loose waves. Long bangs framed her pale face, creating a contrast that drew attention to the rosy glasses perched on her nose. Behind them, curious emerald eyes studied us with a sharp intensity.
Her outfit leaned into a business-casual aesthetic. A baby-blue blouse was tucked neatly into a gray pencil skirt, all of it layered beneath a pristine white lab coat. She moved with an air of efficiency, the rhythm of her steps complemented by the faint click of black heels against the floor. Long stockings accentuated her legs, and a sleek tablet rested in her hands, furthering the impression of a secretary—or perhaps a scientist who doubled as one.
Her eyes widened slightly at the sight of Luna, her attention flickering to the Lucario before locking onto me. Her expression shifted quickly from surprise to professional poise.
"Bonjour, Monsieur. Can I help you this early morning?" Her voice carried a distinct French accent, one that has been softened by years spent abroad. Yet it retained that unmistakable twang, a harmonious blend of formality and warmth.
"Yes, you can," I replied. "I'd like to speak with the professor, if he's available."
She nodded and began scrolling through her tablet, her fingers moving deftly across the screen. "Of course. May I have your name so I can locate your appointment?"
"Jackson Bram," I answered easily, slipping a hand into my jeans pocket to wrap it around a particular gemstone. "And I don't have an appointment."
Her fingers froze mid-scroll. She looked up, her emerald eyes narrowing slightly as if questioning whether she'd heard me correctly. When realization dawned, her polite demeanor shifted into a stern glare.
"Now, sir," she began, her tone firm but courteous, "I would hope you understand that the professor is extremely busy with his research. If you'd like to schedule a meeting, I highly recom—"
Her tirade came to an abrupt halt as I pulled the gemstone from my pocket, holding it aloft for her to see. Light exploded from its surface, a swirling blend of azure and violet beams streaking through the room. The ethereal glow played against my fingers as I focused my thoughts on Luna, who had stepped protectively in front of me when the woman's tone grew sharper.
Luna's crimson eyes were watchful, her guarded stance a testament to her instincts. Her ears twitched subtly, tracking the woman's every movement. The energy from the stone seemed to radiate between us, an unspoken bond strengthening with each passing moment.
"Oh, believe me," I said, allowing a smug but measured smile to touch my lips. I kept my sharp teeth hidden, my glowing eyes dimmed, and my aura in check. "I think the professor would enjoy meeting with me quite a bit."
The woman's gaze flicked from the gemstone to Luna and then back to me. Her expression wavered for a moment, surprise mingling with the faintest hint of intrigue. It was clear that I had her attention now.
…
Sophie, as the assistant had introduced herself, quickly ushered us into a side room. It was modest in design but carried a distinct air of understated elegance. Two plush couches faced each other across a polished coffee table, their soft upholstery a deep charcoal that contrasted with the seafoam-green walls. At the center of the room lay a faux white fur rug, deceptively luxurious despite its synthetic origins. The most striking feature, however, was one wall composed entirely of glass panels, offering a breathtaking view of the patch of nature beyond. Sunlight streamed in, illuminating the room with a soft, golden hue.
I eased myself onto one of the couches, gesturing for Luna to join me with a pat at my side. She hesitated for a moment before sitting down, only to stiffen as she sank deeper into the cushions than expected. A flicker of surprise crossed her face before she regained her composure, her crimson eyes glinting with curiosity and concern.
"Jackson," she began, her voice low but firm, "what are we doing here? I know you have a plan, but I'd appreciate it if you filled me in. I don't like being in the dark, especially when someone's likely to get aggressive with you."
Her words struck a chord, and a pang of guilt tightened my chest. The truth was, I had concocted this little gamble on my own, deliberately avoiding burdening her with the specifics—or worse, revealing too much about myself. But Luna was more than just a traveling companion. She was my partner, and she deserved better than secrecy.
I exhaled heavily, running a hand through my hair before nodding. "You're right, Luna. I'm sorry. It won't happen again."
Leaning in slightly, I lowered my voice to a conspiratorial tone. "This part of the plan involves trading some information for a favor or two. But…" I hesitated, glancing at her to gauge her reaction. "I might have to speak on topics I'd rather keep hidden. If you notice any lies or deflections, that's why."
Her ears twitched slightly, a subtle sign of her processing the revelation. I couldn't tell if she was more annoyed or intrigued, but I pushed forward regardless.
"I wanted to give you a heads-up," I continued, my tone softening. "Not because I think you'd call me out—your poker face is better than anyone's—but because leaving you out of the loop doesn't sit right with me."
Luna's gaze softened ever so slightly, though she maintained her composed exterior. "Good," she replied, her voice calm but resolute. "Because whether you like it or not, I'm your partner. And if you're taking risks, I'm taking them with you."
The double doors flung open with a dramatic flourish, and in strode a man whose presence could fill an entire room without effort. He was tall, probably tall enough to look Chrome straight in the eye if they ever met. His hair was a curious contradiction—silken yet wild, darting in untamed waves that seemed to defy any attempt at control. He wore a deep navy-blue, long-sleeved button-up shirt, neatly tucked into a pair of black dress pants, which bunched slightly over polished, front-laced shoes.
What struck me most, though, were his eyes—piercing pools of silver, shimmering with an almost childlike glee that matched the broad, excitable smile on his face. Every movement he made radiated a boundless energy, as though he couldn't stand still for more than a moment. If someone had asked me to imagine Augustine Sycamore before this meeting, this would have been exactly what I'd envisioned.
"Bienvenue dans mon laboratoire! And apologies for the delay," he greeted, his tone buoyant and brimming with enthusiasm. "I was in the middle of some rather fascinating research when Sophie told me about your arrival!"
As he crossed the room with an easy gait, he settled onto the couch opposite me. The smile never wavered, and I couldn't help but wonder if this perpetual cheerfulness was genuine or some carefully cultivated façade. Not that I had the tools—or the training, yet—to peel back that particular layer without betraying my abilities.
"So, Monsieur Jackson," he continued, his silver gaze locking onto mine with keen interest, "to what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?"
Straight to business. I liked that.
"Please, Professor," I replied, leaning forward slightly. "Just call me Jack—it keeps things simpler. And I'm here to propose a trade. I've stumbled across what I'd call a treasure trove of information, the kind that I believe would be incredibly useful for your research. I'm more than happy to share it with you... but," I added, drawing out the word with a knowing smirk, "I'd like a favor or two in return. A give-and-take arrangement, if you will.
That gave him pause. He steepled his fingers and leaned back, his expression contemplative yet still brimming with curiosity. "A Key Stone and information useful to my research..." he mused, his tone slow and deliberate. "All right, we might be able to work something out. But let me be absolutely clear."
Here, his voice dropped its exuberance, taking on a sharper, almost dangerous edge. The shift was so sudden it was almost disorienting. "I will not be party to anything that endangers people or Pokémon. Do I make myself understood?"
I raised a placating hand while my other hand instinctively found Luna's shoulder. She had bristled at the sudden change in his tone, her ears twitching as her crimson gaze flicked between us, but she was beginning to calm under my reassuring touch.
"My favors won't involve harm to anyone—human or Pokémon," I said firmly, my gaze steady on his. "And I'm not giving you my Key Stone—it's..." I hesitated, searching for the right words as I glanced briefly at Luna. She was still tense, but her breathing had evened out. "It's important to me. Very important. But," I added before he could protest, "I'd allow you to study it, with my supervision, of course."
"Of course," he replied easily, waving a hand in an almost dismissive gesture. His silver eyes gleamed with renewed curiosity, the warmth returning to his voice. "Now then, what are these favors you want so badly, I wonder?"
His tone had taken on a playful lilt, and the mischievous twinkle in his eye punctuated his words. I couldn't help but grin slightly at the shift. The man was nothing if not entertaining.
I leaned forward slightly, meeting Professor Sycamore's expectant gaze. "I think it would be best to tell you exactly what you're getting out of this first, wouldn't you agree?"
The professor tilted his head, and before he could respond, I glanced at Luna. She was staring intently at him, her crimson gaze sharp and unyielding. When my words caught her attention, she shifted her eyes toward me subtly, giving a small nod.
The professor seemed intrigued by my offer, leaning back into the couch and rubbing his chin thoughtfully. He let out a series of contemplative hums before finally breaking into a broad smile. "All right, Jack," he said, his silver eyes practically blazing with curiosity. "What exactly do you have to offer me?"
Now that I had his full attention, I pressed on, letting a confident smile tug at my lips. "Well, in addition to allowing you to research my Keystone, I'm offering information on a multitude of Mega Evolutions."
That statement visibly dimmed his enthusiasm. His previously eager expression was replaced by a mixture of skepticism and curiosity. "What kind of information?" he asked, his tone sharp. "And, more importantly, how did you even come across it? Mega Evolution is a closely guarded secret among certain Kalosian groups. Even the Mega Evolution Guru is highly selective about what information he shares."
Perfect. He was hooked. The skepticism was expected, but it was a hurdle I could easily clear.
"The 'how' is partially tied to the reason I'm here," I began, leaning back slightly to project an air of calm. "But the short answer is this: while exploring one of Kalos' deeper forests, I stumbled upon what I can only describe as a temple. It was guarded by a number of extremely aggressive Pokémon."
Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Luna tense, her ears flicking slightly in irritation. For a brief moment, she seemed ready to object to my fabricated tale, but she quickly composed herself, a faint exhale signaling her reluctant acceptance of my fib.
"Inside this temple," I continued, "I discovered a mural. It depicted a boy and his Pokémon during an ancient war."
That caught Sycamore's attention in earnest. His silver eyes widened briefly, betraying his fascination despite his attempts to maintain a neutral expression.
"The details of that mural," I added, "will be shared once we've finalized our deal. While it does relate to your research, it's not the centerpiece of what I'm offering."
He straightened slightly, his demeanor shifting from curious to intense, as if bracing himself for the next piece of information. Clever man. He was ready to analyze every word I spoke.
"The real prize of this little adventure of mine came after the initial discovery," I said, pausing to let the suspense build. "Not far from the first mural, I found another. This one depicted twenty-five Pokémon. At first glance, they resembled species I'm already familiar with. But there were differences—some were larger, others had extra appendages, and every one of them radiated a sense of immense power."
I paused again, watching as Sycamore's skepticism gave way to an irrepressible grin. "They were Megas."
His grin grew wider, but he still asked, "Are you certain?"
"Yep," I replied, punctuating the 'p' with a little pop of sound.
He chuckled, clearly intrigued, and motioned for me to continue.
"Even better, the mural included brief descriptions of each Pokémon. Not detailed enough to call it a guide, but there were notes—mostly about their abilities." I hesitated, giving the impression of weighing my words carefully before adding, "Of course, I couldn't decipher the language myself, but my guide could."
This time, I glanced deliberately at Luna. The gesture was far more obvious than I would have liked, but thankfully, she didn't react to my blatant fabrication. Instead, she maintained her cool composure, her expression unreadable.
Sycamore clapped his hands together once, the sound echoing slightly in the room. "Fascinating!" he exclaimed, his voice practically trembling with excitement. "If what you're saying is true, this could be one of the most significant breakthroughs in Mega Evolution research in decades!"
"But—" Professor Sycamore's tone shifted, growing considerably more guarded. His previously open demeanor gave way to a skeptical edge as he leaned forward, narrowing his sharp silver eyes. "So, let me get this straight. You're telling me that not only can you communicate with your Lucario—a feat practically unheard of—but that this same Lucario also happens to be able to read an ancient language? And on top of that, you stumbled upon a hidden temple containing depictions of a possibly undiscovered tale from one of Kalos' most mysterious historical periods, as well as information about twenty-five Mega Evolutions and their properties?"
He leaned back, crossing his arms as a faint smile of disbelief played on his lips. "Surely, you understand why I might find all of this... difficult to believe."
In response, I simply gestured toward Luna. "Luna, if you would."
She let out a resigned sigh, casting a brief, annoyed glance my way before turning her attention to the professor. Her crimson eyes glimmered with a faint sheen of irritation. A moment later, streaks of aura energy began to ripple across her body, the air around her shimmering faintly as her sensors fluttered wildly, like they were caught in an invisible wind.
It clearly required more effort than our usual exchanges, but then she spoke in that silken, accented tone of hers. "I can translate," she said, her voice steady but firm. "Though I would prefer to keep that fact a secret."
As she finished, Luna shot me a rather pointed glare, her crimson eyes narrowing ever so slightly. I couldn't resist the urge to respond with a childish gesture, sticking my tongue out at her. If I looked like a kid, I might as well lean into the role every once in a while.
She rolled her eyes and continued, her tone becoming slightly more formal. "As for the temple itself, I cannot speak to what was inside. My father was the one who took Jackson there, and only the chief and those he selects are allowed to enter. I would have been granted access upon my coronation, but I chose instead to travel with Jackson."
Her voice softened, and for a brief moment, there was an unmistakable warmth in her expression. "And I do not regret that decision."
Hearing those words from her stirred something within me, something warm and undeniably pleasant. That probably felt better than it should have, but I wasn't about to dwell on it.
"If you'd like, Professor," I interjected, eager to keep the momentum, "I can give you a demonstration—a little proof of my claims."
Sycamore's gaze shifted back to me, his curiosity tempered by a lingering skepticism. "What sort of demonstration?"
"Well," I began, leaning forward slightly with a smirk, "the most well-known Mega Evolution is probably Mega Lucario, right?"
He nodded slowly, though I could tell he was waiting for something he didn't already know. "Go on."
"Mega Lucario grows by about four inches—that's roughly ten centimeters," I said, letting the details roll off my tongue. "Its fur darkens, and the black patterns on its body become more intricate. It also gains six additional spikes—one on each wrist and two on each foot. Its sensors lengthen significantly, and the ends of its limbs become covered in red fur."
Sycamore nodded along, his expression thoughtful. It was clear this wasn't groundbreaking information to him—probably something he could find online if he searched hard enough. But that was fine. This was just the setup.
I let a sly smile spread across my face, drawing on the deep well of knowledge I hadn't realized I still possessed. Memories of those long hours spent strategizing for local tournaments as a kid came flooding back, vivid and sharp. It was like I could almost see the webpage where I'd studied the stats, abilities, and movesets of countless Pokémon.
'Enhanced cognitive abilities,' I thought to myself, my smirk growing wider. 'So, this was what she meant.'
I leaned in slightly, my tone taking on a confident edge. "But what's not so easily found is how Mega Lucario's heightened aura manipulation allows it to sense and react to its opponent's intentions before they even make a move. Or how its physical strength and speed are amplified to such an extent that it can shatter boulders mid-air with a single blow."
The professor's eyes widened ever so slightly. That little nugget of information had clearly piqued his interest.
"And," I said, leaning back on the couch with an air of practiced nonchalance, "here's something you might not know." I let the words hang in the air for a moment, pausing deliberately to build anticipation. "No matter the ability a Lucario possesses before mega evolution, it changes during the transformation. It becomes Adaptability."
The professor's eyes widened slightly, curiosity lighting up his face, though a flicker of skepticism lingered in his expression. "If that's true," he began slowly, rubbing his chin, "it would be groundbreaking information. Though, of course, I'll need to verify it."
"Of course," I replied with a shrug, rising from the couch as if the matter was already settled. Luna stood smoothly beside me, her movements deliberate, her piercing eyes scanning the room as though sensing the shift in the conversation. "That's to be expected. I'll leave my contact information with Sophie. Once you confirm what I've said, get back to me."
As I turned to leave, and murmured under my breath, barely aware I'd said it out loud, "I'll see what I can do until then."
It was subtle, but the professor's reaction was immediate. His head snapped up, his body tensing as an air of unease surrounded him. "What do you mean by that?" he asked, his voice laced with concern. Before I could answer, he took a deep breath, visibly composing himself. "Jack," he said more firmly, "I think we've danced around this long enough. What exactly do you want from me?"
I stopped mid-step, my back to him as I debated my next move. After a moment, I slumped slightly, letting my shoulders droop as though the weight of his question pressed me down. Turning slowly to face him, I mumbled, just loud enough for him to hear, "I need some documents forged."
His reaction was immediate and intense. "What?!" he exclaimed, his voice sharp with disbelief. "What kind of documents? And more importantly, why would a kid like you need forged documents?"
I didn't answer immediately, instead glancing at Luna out of the corner of my eye. "Luna," I asked quietly, keeping my gaze fixed on the professor, "can I trust him?"
Her response was calm and measured, her voice clear as crystal. "He has no ill intent toward you. He's alarmed, yes, and worried—but there's no malice."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair as if trying to steady myself. "That's… something, I guess." I locked eyes with the professor, his worried expression mirroring the storm of thoughts I pretended to wrestle with.
"I'm sure you know, Professor, that I'm not from Kalos," I began, keeping my tone measured. Sycamore nodded slightly, the movement subtle but telling. His body language betrayed his full attention, his focus sharp as he studied me, waiting for what I'd say next. "That much is obvious," he said cautiously, his brows furrowing in confusion.
"But," I continued, my voice lowering, "what you might not realize is that… on this entire planet, I don't know which region I'm from."
Luna let out a low, disgruntled growl—a sharp Luca!—the sound vibrating through the room. Her translation faltered, but her meaning was clear. I didn't need to see her to know her gaze was burning into me, a silent question demanding explanation.
The professor, on the other hand, leaned forward in his chair, confusion and worry etched on his face. "What do you—how could you not know your home region?"
I could feel the disbelief radiating off him, the concern behind his words unspoken but palpable. It was the kind of emotion I hadn't had directed at me from another human in… well, longer than I cared to remember. It made spinning these half-truths harder than I expected, but Shade, ever the silent presence, helped keep my thoughts sharp.
"It was…" I hesitated, swallowing thickly, my hands balling into fists as I reached for the words. "It must've been over two months ago. I woke up underwater, in a crater at the bottom of that forest I told you about." I paused, glancing briefly at Luna, whose ears twitched slightly, her eyes narrowing.
"After I pulled myself out and managed to survive those first few days, I realized something was… wrong. Everything felt familiar, but only in the most abstract sense. I could look at a tree and know it was a tree. I could see a phone and know how to use it. But as for where I was, who I was…" My voice faltered, the edges of it tinged with something raw.
Luna's growl softened into a quiet hum, her sharp gaze now tinged with uncertainty.
"I had nothing," I continued, my voice picking up again, "except the clothes on my back and… knowledge. Skills. I knew how to hunt. How to craft. How to survive. I knew what a car was and felt pretty sure I could drive one if I had to." I let out a dry, humorless chuckle. "But when it came to me—to Jackson Bram—there was nothing. No school. No parents. No home."
I stopped to take a breath, steadying myself as I let the weight of my words sink in. Letting my voice shift slightly, tapping into emotions buried deep, I added, "It was like Jackson Bram didn't exist."
The professor's expression shifted—his worry now mingled with something else. Something like disbelief.
"You're talking as if he's not… you," Sycamore pointed out, his tone cautious. His eyes flicked briefly to Luna, who was staring at me, wide-eyed and speechless.
A low chuckle rumbled in the back of my mind, Shade's ever-present amusement barely contained.
"That's because…" I paused, letting the tension build before I met Sycamore's gaze. "My name isn't Jackson Bram. I chose it because for a time, I didn't even know who I was. When I woke up, I didn't recognize this body—or anything close to it."
I admitted, my voice dropping to a whisper. "I chose the name Jackson Bram because at the time I needed something—anything—to hold onto. But, it's not even my real name."
Without hesitation, I opened my mouth slightly, baring the sharp ivory daggers that lined my jaw. "Do these look normal to you?" I asked, my voice tinged with quiet intensity.
Sycamore's eyes widened slightly, though to his credit, he didn't flinch.
"And then there's these," I continued, pointing to my eyes. "Glowing violet eyes. Tell me, Professor, how common is that?"
His gaze lingered on me, his worry deepening as he studied my face. But what struck me most wasn't fear. It was the quiet pity radiating from him, the kind of pity reserved for someone unraveling in real time.
To his credit, he held his ground, his voice steady as he spoke. "Jack—if that's even your name—you're clearly under a lot of stress. Let me help you. Whatever this is, we can figure it out together. I have found that no one is ever truly alone in this world"
His words were well-meaning, but they only made the weight in my chest press harder. This time, there was no mask, no charade to hide behind. "That's exactly the problem, Professor. I'm not alone."
The confusion that crossed his face was almost comical, but the gravity of my situation left no room for humor. I clarified, each word heavy with the truth I'd been trying to ignore. "If I was alone, I could tough it out—get some dirty job, doing something shady, scrounge up just enough money to get by, or find someone desperate enough to hire me without asking too many questions."
I paused, taking a deep breath to steady myself before I did something I'd avoided until now: I fully looked at Luna. Her crimson gaze met mine, and for the first time since this discussion began, I let myself be vulnerable.
"But I'm not alone," I continued, my voice softer now, tinged with something that felt dangerously close to guilt. "I realized something, Professor. I don't really care if I ever see my family again. Not once since I woke up cold, wet, and alone did I ever miss their so-called 'love.' Honestly, I don't think I ever had it in the first place."
The professor opened his mouth as if to respond, but I pressed on, unwilling to let the words slip away before they were said. "I was going to use one of my favors to get documents—a birth certificate, some kind of ID, maybe even a fake diploma from a backwater school. And the other favor? A letter of recommendation. Something that could land me a half-decent, legitimate job."
My gaze flicked back to Luna, and my tone grew resolute. "For her."
Luna let out a startled yip, her ears flicking in surprise. The sound tugged at something deep inside me, but I forced myself to stay focused. "I can't risk her safety dealing with the shady sort. Lucarioes are rare, and females even more so. People would do horrible things to get their hands on her." My fists clenched at the thought, and I felt a rush of anger mixed with helplessness. "I can't support us on some bottom-tier job that doesn't even require identification. She deserves better."
The professor stared at me, his expression unreadable as the silence stretched between us. Then, to my utter disbelief, he burst into laughter—a deep, booming sound that echoed through the room.
"Jack," he managed between chuckles, "if all you needed was a job, this would've been a lot simpler!"
I blinked at him, stunned into silence. He grinned, clearly amused by my dumbfounded expression. "I've got a spot open for an assistant. My last one set off on their journey a few months ago, so I'm in need of someone new. And if, with only two months of memory to your name, you've managed to befriend a Lucario, survive, and come up with theories about Megas and ancient history , then you've more than proven you've got the brains for it."
"Wait, what?" I stammered, his offer catching me completely off guard.
He waved a hand dismissively, his grin widening. "You've already demonstrated initiative, intelligence, and determination. Plus, Luna seems to trust you, and I trust Pokémon's instincts. You're hired if you want it."
"Um, actually, Professor, I wasn't lying about the murals," I began, scratching the back of my neck. "The part about the aggressive group of Pokémon? Yeah, that was a little… misleading. It was actually more of a Pokémon village, and the temple there did have the images I described. Luna's father, the chief, told me about their significance."
The professor's laughter cut off abruptly, and he shot to his feet with an almost comical swiftness. His eyes were wide, brimming with curiosity and excitement. "What? Really? Can you take me there?" His tone was eager, practically pleading.
I sighed, already feeling the headache forming. "Absolutely not," I said firmly, my voice leaving no room for negotiation. "It's a secret village for a reason, Professor. They've worked hard to stay hidden. Besides, they were attacked by poachers recently, and I doubt they'd welcome more human visitors. Most of the villagers already didn't like me, and that's after I helped them during the raid."
Luna let out a string of muttered "Lu—Lrio—coir" sounds, deliberately avoiding translating for me. Her tone carried a distinct note of exasperation, and while I couldn't fully understand her, my rudimentary knowledge of her speech gave me just enough to pick up on one recurring sentiment: "no idea." Her reaction only reinforced my assumption that the village's residents would rather forget I existed.
The professor frowned, his excitement tempered by my explanation. "I see… That's unfortunate. But if what you're saying is true, then I must insist you take up my offer. Your involvement would undoubtedly streamline my research immensely."
I studied him for a moment, his enthusiasm both earnest and infectious. Finally, a small smile crept onto my face. "Sure thing, boss. When do I start?" I asked, reaching out to clasp his outstretched hand in a firm shake.
"Fantastique!" he exclaimed, his grin practically splitting his face. "You'll begin tomorrow. The first month or so will mostly involve training—getting you familiar with the tools and protocols we use here. We'll discuss the specifics later, but food and board are fully covered. There's a room in the facility you can use, and," he added with a conspiratorial tone, leaning in a little too close for comfort, "There's plenty of space for Luna to stay with the other Pokémon here. If she so wishes, of course."
His voice dropped to an exaggerated whisper, loud enough to ensure Luna could hear. "I get the feeling she doesn't like her Poké ball very much."
Luna's glare could have melted steel, and the professor—wisely—offered a sheepish grin as he scratched the back of his head. The awkwardness of the moment only lasted a second before I burst into laughter, unable to stop myself.
"Yeah, you could say that," I managed between chuckles.
The professor joined in, his laughter rumbling and warm. Luna, however, huffed and crossed her arms, clearly unimpressed with the both of us.
As the laughter died down, I glanced between the professor and Luna, a strange sense of ease settling over me. For the first time in what felt like ages, I allowed myself to relax. The professor seemed like a decent man, and despite the half-truths I'd fed him, I got the feeling I'd made the right choice.
Maybe, just maybe, this place could be the fresh start I needed.
END OF ACT 1
AN:
I might be taking a bit off until the next part.
Note we are not on Hiatus and I'm not abandoning I already have almost all of this story planned out or at least a few key points throughout and his team is more or less planned its just to connect the main points together in a relatively appealing way and this is one of those sectors where I know what's going to happen roughly but it has enough blank spaces that it forces me to think (And I'm not particularly good at that)