21. School or boot camp

As Dennis looked at his three children, he was impressed with how they reacted. When Dennis first put them to their first round of training it became obvious very quickly that the two girls, Sasha and Stephanie, weren't putting their all into it. They always did everything however, they often complained, did just enough to pass and often tried to find shortcuts.

Dennis figured out quickly that Robert was the only one who was truly working hard, and the girls just didn't want to look bad. Dennis couldn't figure out how his son who was half the girl's age was the hardest working.

As the training went on this slowly started to change. As they exercised with their Pokémon, they felt the bond they had deepen, with every day bringing them closer. They also started to enjoy the feeling of improving every day. Whether it was with the reaction speed of their commends, foresight in tactics or their own fitness. No matter how slight the improvement each day they soon started to feel the differences from when they first started.

By now both girls had a budding passion to become strong trainers as well. It was nowhere near the raging inferno that Robert had but it was a good start. Dennis was a little worried about how all this might dampen their spirits. Unfortunately, he had already left this longer than he should have for the twins and if he didn't talk to them about this now it might be too late for what he has planned.

Much to Dennis relief, while the sisters did seem a bit disheartened at first, they soon bounced back with renewed passion. Now it was Robert's reaction that worried him. Other than a bit of surprise at the beginning, he seemed even more excited than before. Dennis was worried this son of his who seemed hell-bent on being a trainer no matter what, had underestimated how difficult this path would be.

Dennis knew that he wasn't very suited to teaching his kids. He was never a particularly good instructor to begin with and was more suited for leading into battle. On top of that, he was just too soft on them. He let the girls have it easier when they complained and couldn't dampen Robert enough when he wanted to work too hard. That's where Jackson came in. Jackson was one of the better instructors in the army and handled most of the newer recruits.

Dennis nodded to Jackson, indicating it was time for him to take over. Jackson nodded back and took a little step forward to get the kids attention. "alright kids, most of that is too far away for you to think about right now. Let's talk about how you become trainers." All three children immediately focused on Jack, any other thoughts they had tossed to the back of their minds.

"As you're father said earlier you start by applying to the regions union. This overall is a fairly simple process and can be done at any Pokémon centre. While the process is simple there are certain restrictions to this, the biggest one being age". Jackson almost had to stifle a laugh after he said that. All three children faltered a little hearing there was an age limit, especially Robert.

Indeed, it had never occurred to Robert that he couldn't go travelling with his Pokémon until he was a lot older. It seemed obvious now that it was pointed out. After all, he knew firsthand how dangerous Pokémon could be. The thought had never crossed his mind. All Robert could do was hope it was not too old. What Jack said next though made him sway on his feet and almost pass out.

"The minimum age for this is 25". This time, seeing Roberts exaggerated reaction Jackson let a little chuckle escape. "this however is the most standard and easiest way but far from the only way."

"Uncle Jack stop torturing me like this, I know you are doing it on purpose". Robert couldn't help but cry out, feeling he was being played with. Jack gave him a side glance and said "of course I am. After all it's not too often I can cause trouble for you, instead of you causing it for me". Robert smiled wryly, was he that much of a troublemaker. 'Hmmm, it would seem I'll have to cause more trouble to prove I wasn't causing too much before'. As Robert thought this, he couldn't help a little smirk sneaking out.

"Alright listen up now. There are two other ways to start as a trainer besides the first easiest one. The second way is at age 14 you go to the academy in your region, which is Violet city for us. You stay at this academy and learn there for two years. After two years and you graduate you can apply to be a learner trainer. You can apply to be a learner trainer at 16 without going to the academy but you must have a valid reason for not attending. You will also have to pass various tests to prove you are qualified. Most would rather go to the academy as with a pass from there nothing else is needed to be a learner trainer. After becoming a learner trainer, you are allowed to travel freely in the routes directly outside you're chosen starting city or town. For example, if you chose Ecruteak city you can travel on route 37,38 and 42. You cannot travel in route 35, 36 or 39 nor can you go to Mahogany town. This lasts another two years. When 18 you can take a survival test that is run by Senior and Elite rank trainers and supervised by one of the Elite four. If you survive and pass then you will become an official trainer at 18, instead of having to wait until you are 25".

Jackson paused to let all this sink in. just before he could start again Robert whined. "why does it all have to be so complicated". Jackson's expression darkened at Roberts comment "I thought you would have understood why better than most Robert. While being a trainer sounds glorious, Pokémon are dangerous and many trainers end up dead even with all this. Your father is right, you are too impatient and reckless and need to be taught to be more patient and cautious".

Robert went a little pale and shuddered at Jacks retort, he was right. Robert had become too short-sighted getting his first Pokémon and even had thoughts of running off into the jungle with them. He had forgotten how dangerous this world can be.

After seeing Robert Settle down Jack continued. "the third and last option is the one we hope for all of you, it also has the strictest requirements. It's called the league juniors. To even apply for this, you must have a Pokémon above level 20 by the time you are ten. You must also have a certain amount of battle competency with that Pokémon to prove that you raised it and not just given to you. An inspector appointed by the league itself will come to test these requirements. If you pass the inspector will take you to a location that only the top people of the union know about. There you will be trained with other young prodigy trainers for five years. If you pass this five-year program not only will you become a full trainer right away, you will also receive one of the three region war Pokémon to begin you're journey with".