Act1 - Chapter 4

Trey continued to scope out the aisle for the belt he was looking for and thankfully he found it with a sigh of relief, looking at the price tag he was in jubilation.

"Thank Arceus, it's only 25 credits. Alright time for some food," Trey said, pushing his cheer to the forefront hoping to stave off his exhaustion and wariness.

But he was stopped by some struggling from Ralts.

Looking down he tilted his head.

"What is it, sweetie? Did I forget something?" he asked.

Ralts tugged on his nearby sleeve for a moment, using her other hand to point at the classic red and white Pokeball, an urging whimper following.

Trey continued to be confused as she pointed. Did she want him to purchase more Pokeballs? Unsure, his feelings transferred over their psychic link slowly, and in return, the vague garbled image of open plains, and the faint smell of a summer breeze entered his senses, the warm touch of the sun gently caressing his skin.

Trey snapped back from the comforting daydream, a small tear forming in the corner of his eye. A sniffle and a sleeve wipe later, he nodded.

"I get it… You're saying to reach that place where we can all be happy I'm going to need more Pokemon, is that it?" Trey asked.

Ralts whimpered but nodded, looking down for some reason.

"Hold on, what's that all about? While it's true we might need more help. No one is going to replace you, sweetie, you're my first and will always be my starter, got it? I'm counting on you to keep all these new mon in line, yeah?" Trey said, giving her cap a little pat as she preened under his touch.

After a few seconds of consoling her, she seemed to be in a better mood, her little white sleeves curling into fists as she gave a small pump of her arms and a huff.

She changes gears quickly, huh? But that's good, I really am going to need her help in the future so I can only do my best to give it my all and lean on her for the time being until I get my feet wet in the Muk, as they say. Trey chuckled.

Getting back to shopping Trey, pulled a single voucher from the hanger on the wall.

"Okay, 100 for the Pokeball, 25 for the belt. Now onto food!"

Ralts cooed as she heard the words food, her arms going up in excitement.

Trey laughed and began walking down the aisle looking for the sign that labeled the Pokefood section.

After a few seconds of walking back and forth, he found the aisle or well, aisles to be correct.

What awaited Trey was a handful of several aisles of food, each one housing numerous assortments of dry, wet, fresh, raw, premade, canned foods, berries, and finally a lane holding equipment for processing.

"Fuck me," Trey mumbled.

Looking over the first aisle Trey was nearly overwhelmed by the sheer diversity of food, vitamins and minerals, and all-around selection that the store boasted.

There were several refrigerators as well housing raw meat from domesticated animals as well as fresh veggies, fruits, and specialty berries. The possibilities were endless with just the raw foods alone.

Then came the bagged dry pre-made food that had more than a handful of different brands and specialties. Some focused on general nutrition for specific Pokemon types, others on physical biology, and some even went for specific Pokemon and their lifestyles.

There were foods meant to help with Pokemon based on where the Pokemon were in their life cycle and others for how much 'work' the Pokemon did.

"Work huh? Does that refer to active trainer Pokemon? I have a lot of research to do….." Trey said in a low tone as the side of his mouth curled up wryly.

Trey had gone through a few of the aisles just to take a look at the selection let alone the prices. And when he looked, they did not disappoint.

These are more expensive than what I fucking eat! I can get a whole week's worth of food for this much! He screamed internally as his shoulders slumped ever so slightly.

Trey looked back down to Ralts, her face beaming. The excitement painted on her face eased his worry by leaps and bounds.

Well, I'll make it work. I always do...

Trey had no idea about Pokemon nutrition yet and had no real experience outside of taking care of the children at the Orphanage. So he did the best thing he could think of that would probably get him yelled at if any mother or trainer heard of what he was going to do.

He let Ralts decide.

Going from aisle to aisle Trey waited for Ralts to get ever so excited then took a look at what it was. From this process, he was able to figure out that she, in fact, liked everything.

Trey laughed.

I guess my little girl is just a glutton…

Eventually, after a few more rounds of going back and forth, bumping into some other trainers who gave him a terse glance and then went back to their shopping, Trey noticed that most of them were going for raw foods.

I wonder if that's because it's easier to balance the nutrition or is it cheaper? He thought.

Unfortunately, Trey had no experience on the matter, and he didn't want to give Ralts something that might not have everything she needed. She was a Pokemon and not a human after all, and just looking at the different minerals and vitamins that were on the shelves could tell him he had a long way to go before he was able to even think about making food for her from scratch.

By process of elimination, he ended up in the section of premade food that was produced for general Pokemon health of growing adolescent Pokemon. And Ralts did not seem to mind.

The price was slightly more expensive than Trey would have liked but, he wasn't about to spare any expense for her.

On their way out he also picked out an assortment bundle of berries that was thankfully reasonably priced.

"I'm running out of arm real estate here… I need a basket or a cart maybe," Trey said looking around.

Ralts cooed as she pointed to the end of the aisle next to them, a number of blue baskets stacked neatly. To the right of the stack, there was a small nutrition booklet for Pokemon.

"Oh, I'm taking this. Only 5 credits?! That's not just cheap, that's a good deal!" Trey exclaimed, then realized he said that a bit too loud forcing him to cough, his ears turning a bit red.

Nothing wrong with taking up a good deal. It's how we survive. Trey thought nodding to himself, a small curious coo coming from his arms.

Coughing again Trey began walking while flipping through the booklet randomly, his hand holding his basket and the booklet, his other propping Ralts up.

Looking through the book, it cemented that Trey needed to get to the library sooner than later. He had far too many gaps in his knowledge, or more specifically no knowledge at all other than pop culture references to Mons in movies and commercials.

Stepping past a few more aisles he reached the line for the counter, seeing some of the people in front of them and their Pokemon waiting patiently to be checked out. Several of the trainers looking at their phones, reminding Trey.

Shit I need a phone too don't I, and register it for the adoption and Police investigation… Ahh and as a trainer! Will I even have time to hit the library after all of this? I wanted to go there first but I really need to finish the other things first.

A few more minutes of back and forth in Trey's head and it was now his turn in line.

He gave a practiced smile, placing his items onto the belt, and looked at the employee. A teen girl who looked to be around his age.

"Hi, I wanted to know if you also sold phones here or possibly Romton-dexs? I couldn't find them myself when I was looking," Trey said, making sure to give good considerate eye contact so the girl didn't change her focus to Ralts in his arms.

He normally wouldn't be as sly as to use some of the things he had picked up from the bar in public, but he was low on time and didn't want to have to explain what had happened with Ralts.

"Oh! Um they are right over there," the girl pointed, "You can see a separate desk with some glass cases, there should be someone there that can help you get one sorted out, but I believe we are all out of Romtoms until the next Circuit cycle."

Trey was taken aback, "Isn't that a few months away?" he asked, simply amazed.

"Yeah, well every start of the Circuit has a bunch of new trainers so they go fast, and then it takes time to resupply apparently. But we do have standard phones and some Dex-Phone combos. The newest Silph Phone is out as well! But it will probably be obsolete in a few months…" the woman said, giving a weary chuckle.

"Right. Always adding new features but only to the new ones… Oh! Would you also happen to know the price of Silph Co. Bags for trainers?" Trey added in before he turned for the phone counter.

The girl took a minute to think about it before she answered, pursing her glossed lips.

"Ummm, they are basically free for Lab Affiliated Trainers, but for Independent, I think they are still pretty high around 2,000 credits?" she explained.

Trey flinched at the number but did his best to give an even reply.

"T-two thousand huh? That isn't that bad… Thank you for the help," Trey said with a weary smile, making his way back over to the phone counter, taking a few brief glances at the phones in the case.

"May I help you sir?" the man behind the counter asked, noticing Trey looking around.

Trey and Ralts both focused on the portly man, almost mistaking him for a Milktank.

Trey coughed briefly, shaking off his rude thoughts before answering.

"Yes, thank you. I was looking for a phone or possibly a Pokedex combo. I'm an independent trainer…? But I haven't received my license just yet," Trey explained.

The man was certainly worth his salt as he kept a professional demeanor, nodding as he listened then quickly began suggesting phones.

"Unfortunately you will not be able to receive any discounts without the physical Trainer Card, but I can certainly put a phone on hold for you until you receive it. We also have various payment plans for the more expensive phones," he explained, Trey nodding along this time, "There is also a waiting list you can join for Romtom Phones if you wish, but they will not be in stock for some time. May I ask what you are looking for in the phone? Is the Pokedex a requirement, as that will increase the price dramatically."

Trey pursed his lips as he leaned over the glass counter, his head leaning on Ralts's as she squirmed slightly trying to look at the phones as well. Both their eyes scanned the shiny new things within the case.

Trey pointed to a particular model asking the clerk about it.

"This is the Silph Co. 10 Pro, a very popular model even though it is a generation behind. The sleek model is compact all while not compromising its functionality. A fine choice for any journeying Trainer," the clerk explained.

Trey nodded along excitedly with Ralts but then dimmed when he had to ask the question he inevitably would need to.

"And the price…?"

"200 credits, sir. If you would like the Pokedex combo it will bring it to 350."

Trey flinched backward like he had just taken a hyper beam to the gut.

"T-two hundred? Why is it so expensive?!"

"These phones all range in similar prices. They are after all targeting Trainers and have functionalities that complement that. If you would like a more basic phone that only has calling, texting, and web surfing functions I can show you them as well," the clerk offered not missing a beat.

"P-please…." Trey sighed.

Moving to another part of the counter the clerk pulled out a box containing four phones.

"These are basic functionality phones. They are generic mass-produced models for the public and have the functionalities I have listed before, they come in red, blue, yellow, and green."

"P-price…?" Trey asked apprehensive.

"30 credits, sir," the clerk answered.

"Oh thank Arceus," Trey said, exhaling in relief.

Trey smiled slightly as he felt the blood come back to his face, looking at the phones. They were basic as he had said and flip phones, slightly bulky but nothing that bothered him.

He debated heatedly about which color to pick until Ralts pointed at the green one deciding for him.

"Ok," he laughed, "Guess we're going with the green one if you would please," Trey asked, giving Ralts a pat.

"A fine choice, sir. Would you like me to check you out here?"

"Yes please, thank you."

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Trey exited the Mart, his wallet stinging from the purchases. And a full 250 credits lighter.

"Let's just hope the 100 credits I have can last us until next week," Trey said, giving a wary smile.

Ralts gave a soft coo of concern, a faint feeling of embarrassment passing through their thread.

Trey gave her a small squeeze to reassure her.

"Don't you worry about it sweetie, I'm going on a diet anyway. Now let's crack open some of those Berries before we head over to the soft cream stand on the way to the hall," Trey said, smiling down at the small Mon.

Making his way from the storefront he began walking in the direction of the hall, reminiscing that he probably wouldn't have time for the library for more information right now.

Trey had purchased and equipped the Pokeball utility belt, Ralts's, and an empty red and white ball donning a slot each. Slipping his hand into his pocket he fished out his new green phone as well, playing around with it as he went.

"Look here sweetie," Trey whispered to Ralts as she tilted her head up.

*Snap* *Click*

Trey took several photos of the Mon with her small head cutely titled upwards, her ruby eyes barely peeking out from under her green cap.

"Perfect. That's going to be my wallpaper until we get you a picture with the twins," Trey huffed triumphantly, saving the photo he thought was best.

"Ralts…." she cooed as she sunk slightly deeper into Trey's chest trying to hide her reddening face, her full-blown embarrassment now coming over their connection.

Trey laughed dotingly at her fiddling more with the phone.

"Ah good the internet is connected, free Poly-fi bonzai!" Trey chuckled as he tried to load up the battlenet page, "Oh I have to make an account. I don't have an email right now though… Well seems easy enough.. Use this site for a free email, check, check, check…. Aannnndd done. Nice full access! Wow, are there really this many trainers on this site?! That's insane! Oh, there's a ranking page?" Trey exclaimed, perusing the page briefly before he received a tap to his chest.

Looking down, Trey raised an eyebrow.

Ralts tugged at his shirt, her other hand pointing to a small white cart, with a blue parasol covering it.

An urging coo came from Ralts as she slightly wiggled in his arm.

"Okay, okay! I got it. We're going, we're going," Trey said with a light laugh as he walked over to the stall.

A man with a white apron and a similar colored blue hat gave a wave to Trey and Ralts.

"Hello there! What can I getcha?" the man behind the stall greeted.

"Good evening," Trey greeted back, taking a look at a street clock, seeing it was 9:26 AM, "Or, still good morning… I must be more tired than I thought.. Um sorry, I'd like a soft cream for the little lady here," Trey said smiling down to the eager Ralts.

"Sure thing! We have some Pokemon-specific ice cream if you'd like, it has berries that are rather healthy for them," the man said, taking a look at Ralts.

Trey noticed the glance at her cap but ignored it as the man didn't bring it up specifically and seemed to be a kind soul offering it.

"Yes please, that would be amazing thank you. By the way, what berries are they? I'd like to know more about Pokemon health since I'm just starting as a trainer," Trey asked curiously.

"Oh! Well," the man started, pulling a con from the stall, and placing a first scoop of ice cream into it, "Berries themselves aren't too hard for Mons. Almost all of them are alright for them to eat sparingly, the problem comes from when you use them in a regular diet. Things like this ice cream, we use mostly Oran and Leppa Berries since they promote good health and are relatively easy to come by," the man explained, placing another scoop onto the small tower of dessert, "But as far as taste goes? It depends on the Pokemon, different berries mixed with different foods will taste differently to them, just remember to research and test it out with each of your Pokemon."

The man held out the cone. Trey placed his bags down so he had a free hand to grab it.

"That will be 10 credits, sir," the man said.

"Here you go," Trey answered, offering his debit card, "Also thank you for the information, I really appreciate it as a new trainer. Do you take tips?" Trey asked.

"Oh no sir, that won't be necessary. I'm happy to help anyone interested in Mon health! Just promise to stop by some more and I'll consider it a tip."

Trey smiled and nodded, "It's a deal. Thank you again, Mr…?"

"Just call me Roger, no Mr. needed, I'm not that old yet," Roger chuckled, giving Trey and Ralts a wave.

Trey gave a grin back and handed the cone to the begging Ralts, her arms up reaching for the cone before Trey even had a chance to bring it to her.

Picking up the bags he put down, he gave another quick nod to the vendor, Mr Roger. And down the street in the direction of the League Center.

"How do you like it, sweetie?" Trey asked as they made their way.

"Ralts!!" she responded, bits and pieces of berries on the corners of her mouth.

Trey laughed and doubled back to the vendor, asking for some napkins before giving her mouth a quick wipe. But not before he took a picture of Ralts and saved it.

Taking his time to walk down the street, Trey tried his best to relax. Freeing his mind of the struggles ahead and enjoying the breeze of the air, and the sound of the soft coos from Ralts as she enjoyed her snack.

I hope this peace can stay for a little while more…. It feels… normal and right almost. I only wish everyone was around to enjoy it… Trey thought, his head turning to a dark direction as his eyes pooled in frustration.

"Alts…?" Ralts cooed, momentarily stopping her meal and looking up at Trey.

"It's nothing, sweetie. Just some more self-loathing… I've got to get a handle on it.." Trey admonished himself, "Let's get everything settled here, I want to go check up on the twins as well if we have time before work if we can."

Ralts cooed lightly, her uncertainty spilling over their thread, but she left it at that as they continued forward toward the large building ahead of them. The Kanto League Center.

Trey gave out a puff of air looking at the building. It had an arch made of glistening gold, at its peak, a startlingly well-made Pokeball of silver. A Charizard, Blastoise, and a Venasaur surrounded it in gold.

Trey looked in awe at the building for a moment, before getting looks from coming and going trainers. Reminding him that he was embarrassing himself by gawking at the structure and that he needed to quickly get the registry over with. He had a busy schedule today.

Walking inside through the glass sliding doors, Trey was assaulted by the boom of noise coming from the trainers and people watching the screens and shouting.

"Go, go! You got this! That's the way! No use Fireblast! Why are you trying to use Dragon Claw when you have the finisher!"

"Did you see the league match from Celadon the other day?"

"Yeah! I can't believe they won using a Fire Type! That was the first time I saw someone use a Ninetails like that!"

Trey could make out some of the conversations and shouts but it was a cacophony of noise within the space. Numerous TV's displaying match after match, some live and some recordings of high-ranking trainers and Gym Leaders.

"This is overwhelming…." Trey said, his mouth gaping once again.

"Raa….." Ralts agreed.

Trey looked down and laughed, giving her a pat on the head.

"Don't worry we'll figure it out sweetie," he said, her coo allowing him to get a grip and move forward, "Now where is the desk…? Ah, there we go. And there, looks like this one is free."

Trey walked over, bags and Ralts in hand to the service desk. Thankfully no one noticed him and Ralts as they were too occupied with the TVs and their own errands.

"Good morning sir, may I help you with something?" the man at the desk asked, a polite smile on his face.

"Yes, I'd like to finish registering. I was told a police officer named John sent papers?" Trey asked.

The man nodded and turned to his monitor, "One moment, please. Your name please."

"Trey, just Trey sir."

The man typed in Trey's name and a few key clicks later found his file.

"Ah, here it is. Yes, we need to finish with a picture, and some signatures and you will be finished with the Trainer Registration as an Independent League Trainer for the remainder of the league. It's in your file as well that you need to register an adoption. We can get this done quickly here if you wish also," the man explained.

Trey nodded.

"That sounds perfect, thank you," Trey answered.

"Let me print these papers out for you. And you may stand against that wall there for your ID Photo," said the man, as he pointed to a wall with a white background outlined by a red square.

Trey walked over and turned, seeing the camera across from him in the booth next to the man.

"Here?" he asked.

"Yes sir, that's fine. Do you wish to put down your Pokemon and bags for the picture? Once the picture is selected it can't be changed until the next circuit registration," the man explained.

Trey didn't even hesitate.

"No. I want Ralts in the picture with me. She is my first Pokemon after all," Trey smiled a flash and click going off.

"All done!" the man behind the counter said unceremoniously, going back to his computer where the papers had finished printing as well.

"That was quick… and he only took one," Trey sighed, then looked down, Ralts finishing off her cone with a final bite, her white sleeves going to her cheeks as she savored the flavor.

Trey smiled, wiping off the crumbs from her mouth.

"Did you smile for the camera Ralts? It will be on our ID for a whole 6 months," Trey said.

Ralts suddenly froze, her expression frowning. Embarrassment going over their link.

I guess she was too busy eating her ice cream to even notice the camera. Trey chuckled, moving over to the clerk's desk.

"Here are the papers I will need your signature on. The fees have already been taken care of so please ignore them," the clerk said, sliding the freshly printed papers over the counter.

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Terms of Service and Agreement - Independent Trainer

Independent Trainers are responsible for all expenses concerning personal Pokemon. This may include but is not limited to; food, training equipment, evolution stones, certain medical procedures for Pokemon, and said Trainer.

1.a. Medical Procedures that are not covered include: Pre-existing conditions, cosmetic & elective procedures, and whelping.

Independent Trainers are required to have a modicum of presentability and decorum at all times while representing the Pokemon Global League.

Independent Trainers have basic legal authority given to them at the time of ID Issue.

3.a. Legal Authority extends to Lawful arrest as stated in Pamflet 1 Section 5 Subsection D. 1.

3.b. Legal Authority extends to participation in active investigations by police and fellow Trainers, but shall relinquish authority to head said investigations to higher authority such as Lab Trainers and League Official Investigators.

Independent Trainers are given access to Pokemon Database based on tenure and Rank in League.

Independent Trainers are given a stipend based on Ranking within the current League Circuit.

5.a. Ranking is determined as stated in Pamflet 1 Section 3.

Independent Trainers are given Discounts to participating establishments. See Pamphlet 1 Section 1 Subsection A.

Independent Trainers are required to have a minimum of one officially refereed match per week. Failure will result in ID being revoked. For the procedure and reporting of said match see Pamphlet 1 Section 2.

If you agree to these terms please sign here _______

--------------------------------------------------------------

Trey read over the terms and was surprised at how formal they were. Seeing that a battle was required every week struck his gut.

I'll have to have Ralts battle every week…? He thought slightly concerned.

"Is.. Is the requirement for battle immediate?" Trey asked.

"The requirement has a two-week grace period. And will begin once your ID is issued," the man answered.

Trey still felt uneasy but having the small amount of extra time gave his mind a breath of relief if only slightly.

Seeing no problems with the contract Trey quickly signed the paper, putting his Pidgey scratch on it.

"There you are," Trey said, sliding the paper back.

"Looks to be in order," the man replied, then slid another paper to Trey.

This piece was much more simple.

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Pokemon Adoption Registration

Pokemon: ______

Pokemon Given Name (Optional): _______

Gender: _______

Age:_______

Name of Adopter:______

Age of Adopter: ______

Place of Residence: ________

Reason for Adoption (Optional):_________

Has your adopted Pokemon seen the Pokemon Center within the last Month? (Y) (N)

Have you brought the required Medical records for the adopted Pokemon? (Y) (N)

For Staff Use Only

Does the Pokemon seem to be in good health? (Y) (N)

Does the Pokemon seem distressed in any way? (Y) (N)

Has the adopter been screened and verified? (Y) (N)

Are there any people of reference for the adopter? If Yes please write them in the lines below. _______ If No please skip.

Is the adopter affiliated with any businesses or Labs? If Yes please write them in the lines below. _______ If No please skip.

…..

….

…

----------------------------------------

Trey filled in all that he could on the form, coming to a few spots where he was troubled on what to do.

I can just use Kristina's shop as my residence for now… But the bigger problem is the name. It says optional but.. I think it just feels wrong if I don't give her a proper name… Trey thought, looking down at Ralts, the small Mon looking back at him.

Hmm.. she has her green cap but that will change when she evolves right? Her eyes are a rose color… What about Rose? Ah… that's kind of lame… He thought.

"Ralts?" Trey finally said, not able to come up with another name after a few moments.

Ralts tilted her head curiously, a soft coo escaping her lips.

"Would you like the name Rose sweetie? It reminds me of your eyes and I would feel awful if I didn't give you a proper name… You can-" Trey was about to say before Ralts chirped happily, her arms up in the air.

"Ralts! Alts!"

Trey's face relaxed as a smile creased his lips as he looked dotingly at Ralts, no Rose.

Guess that's decided then.

"Thank you for having me. Rose," Trey said, giving her head a pat before he wrote down the name.

"A fine name sir. Most trainers refrain from giving their Pokemon names but I feel that giving your beloved companions a proper name is very endearing. Here are the pamphlets for the league circuit, they include both the rules and regulations as well as the citations from the contract. I have already been faxed your pre-screening records as well as a voucher for your adoption so there is no issue there. And we will contact the Police department and Hospital, as noted in your file so that they may contact you at a later date. If you give me a moment I will print out your ID and you will officially be a Pokemon Trainer," the man explained, a smile on his face.

Trey excitedly nodded back, his mind forgetting the hardships of his life for a moment as he reveled in the joy of becoming a trainer.

"A new trainer?" a voice behind Trey said.

Trey turned looking down at the small girl who was speaking to him, her brilliant red hair to her shoulders.

"Yes..?" Trey replied.

"Perfect! Would you be so kind as to battle with me? I am also a new trainer!" the girl said, her tone and speech formal.

"Sorry, I've just registered and haven't had a chance to train with Rose yet," Trey answered.

"Nonsense! The best way to learn is through combat as my elder brother always says! But I would not expect anything less than a soft-hearted approach from a Trainer that names their Pokemon!" the girl said.

"Excuse me?" Trey said, his brow furrowing, "Is there anything wrong with naming your Pokemon?"

"But of course! Pokemon are tools for us to reach our goals," said the child, her mannerisms well beyond her appearance, "I and my Squirtle will show you just that! If you are not a coward, that is!"

Trey held his tongue, already being insulted, and responding to a child less than half his age was an embarrassment, but since the war, Trainers had become younger and younger so this was most likely his new norm.

"Look I said no, I won't be insulted into a fight that I'm not prepared for," Trey answered evenly, turning away to the counter and waiting for his ID to be done.

Rose on the other hand struggled in his grip, her low-sounding grumble grabbing his attention.

Trey wasn't able to ignore the frustration and bubbling anger he could feel across their connection.

Is she getting angry because the kid insulted me?

"It's alright sweetie. There will always be another fight, we have years to battle," Trey said, trying to diffuse her, but Rose was adamant.

Eventually, she wrenched herself loose from his arms, hopping down to the floor as she stared back at the red-headed child.

"Ralts!" Rose yelled, her determination flooding their psychic thread.

"Excellent! It seems your Pokemon is roaring to go!" the child said, her smile widening, "Let us battle then! The facilities here are free for trainers."

This is not going to end well…I don't even know any Pokemon moves! Trey thought, pulling out his phone hectically, searching for information on Ralts and her move set.

Ah…. I can't let her get so fired up just for me and not answer her feelings. Let's see.. Disarming Voice, growl, confusion, teleport… double team… hypnosis? I don't even know what half these moves do!

Trey became more and more overwhelmed by the new information, his unsteadiness apparent on his face.

"Excuse me," the man at the counter said, getting Trey's attention, "Here is your ID. If there is nothing else, you are now an official trainer."

Trey fumbled over his words, thanking the man, giving a slight bow of his head, as he turned back to the child behind him, Rose still staring daggers at her.

The child stood triumphantly, staring back at Rose then focused on Trey.

"Then shall we get to it? The Elevator at the back of the lobby will take us to a battling floor," the child said, but she instead moved to a pair of monitors next to the elevators, "These show which floors are currently in use. It appears that we will have to wait a moment for a floor to open up. Hmm, it seems that this battle is almost concluded, shall we head to the 4th floor then and wait?" she asked, but did not wait for an answer as she walked to the elevator.

Trey picked up Rose and began following the child, although reluctant.

Flipping open his phone again he looked at the time.

[10:13 AM]

Haa… well at least I'll have time to visit the Hospital after this. I'm just worried about Rose. She was just at the Center… Why is she so angry about me being insulted? Is she actually hot-headed?

Trey digressed looking back at his phone as the elevator doors closed in front of him. He continued to look up move sets but when he realized he had no idea how to battle at all, he took to the battlenet forums.

He tried to quickly browse some of the FAQs for new trainers on the pinned posts but nothing really stuck out to him as they weren't for absolutely brand new trainers like himself who had zero experience.

Turning to the search bar he typed into it just as the doors opened with the beep of the elevator indicating they had reached their floor.

[Absolute Beginner Trainer How To]

>1 Match

>What to do as an absolute beginner!

Trey walked from the elevator onto the floor the sound of roaring and the clash of abilities booming in his ears, tearing his focus away to the battles in front of him.

On the surprisingly expansive floor were three standard battlefields of dirt, marked with white lines and being contained by some sort of machine that was producing a kind of barrier around the field. Trey had never seen a live battle before and all of the features and facets were new to him, leaving him in awe.

The first field contained a Growlithe versus another Pokemon that Trey knew, a Haunter. The second had a battle going on between a Pidgey and a Spearow each of the flying types going back and forth in the air above the field.

The last Field contained what seemed like a one-sided match with a Flareon against a Bulbasaur.

Trey was more interested in watching the type match-up in the third field, seeing as it would be over quickly based on the match-up.

Apparently so did the child who had brought him up here as she began walking to the field also.

Trey followed his bags and Rose in his arms as she cooed looking on at the battles unfolding.

A few seconds later they were closer to the battle and up close had a better view of what was going on in the field.

"Flareon! Flamethrower!" the trainer shouted to the field.

"Bulbasaur! Dodge using Vine Whip, then use Seed Bomb!" the other shouted back.

Both Pokemon did as they were told.

Flareon breathing an intense bellow of flames in Bulbasaur's direction. But the little green dinosaur reacted quickly to their trainer's commands, using one of its two vines to push off the ground to the side.

But Bulbasaur didn't get away unscathed as the vine it used was caught in the flames, but continued to press its attack as its throat expanded then exploded with a roar as countless seeds surged forward bombarding Flareon in the side as it was still stuck in using its Flamethrower.

Flareon was thrown from the impact and slammed into the barrier, thudding to the floor.

"No, Flareon!" the trainer shouted.

A mechanical voice then sounded through the field as a small screen on one side showed a green light for the Trainer of Bulbasaur and a red for Flareon.

"Flareon is unable to battle. Winner, Bulbasaur."

Bulbasuar's trainer jumped his fist raised as he excitedly ran to his Pokemon, the barrier dissipating around the field.

"Great job Bulbasaur! You won with a type disadvantage buddy! Now let's get you all healed up," the trainer said, pulling a Pokeball from his belt, Bulbasaur vanishing in a flash of red light.

Flareon's Trainer did the same, running to their Pokemon in concern.

"Flareon? You ok?!" the Trainer asked, kneeling down next to the fainted Mon, "You did your best… I-i…"

The other trainer moved over and extended a hand for a handshake, and was met with a reluctant gaze, but both shook, one congratulating the other for the good match.

The Flareon's Trainer returned their Pokemon to their ball and ran to the elevator quickly going down.

"Poor Flareon had a worthless Trainer. Losing with a type disadvantage is an embarrassment," the child next to Trey said.

That's a really inconsiderate thing to say…. Maybe the other trainer was just better. Ah… I can feel this going even worse now. Arceus above… Trey thought, trying to steel himself for his 'match'.

"Are you both going to use the field next?" the remaining trainer asked.

"Certainly. It will be his Ralts, versus my Squirtle. Care to watch?" the young girl asked.

"I would but I need to get Bulbasaur to the Center, maybe we can battle if I see you again!" the boy said, turning and running to the elevator as he waved over his shoulder.

Trey's heart began beating wildly as the reality of his first battle was about to happen. His thoughts turned to if what he had just witnessed was going to be a prelude to Rose's first battle.

Could he handle seeing her hurt like that? Would he be good enough as a novice to make sure nothing happened?

He quickly looked to his phone once more, opening up the thread.

His face quickly dimmed as a shadow of disbelief covered it.

Reading the first and only post on the thread he cursed.

>xxYourLittleImpishxx - 12/04/2019: 3:24PM

>Just pray! Cause your gonna lose! Lol!

Fucking internet trolls! How is this helpful! He spat.

"Ready?" the child asked, her face showing her eagerness.

"No, but I can't back out now…" Trey said looking down to Rose in his arms, her scowl still apparent even underneath her green scared cap, "So how do we do this?"

The child pointed over to the small monitor.

"We show the scanner there our ID's then it will ref for us. There is the option of having another Trainer who's registered to the circuit ref but everyone else seems to be busy. Don't concern yourself with the settings, I'll do it myself," the child said proudly.

"I thought you said you were a new trainer…" Trey asked suspiciously.

"That I am! But I have watched my elder brother battle many times before so it is almost second nature for me."

They both then walked to the monitor, taking out their ID's respectfully. Trey placed his card into the small slit for his card on the side of the monitor and it began reading out his details.

"Independent Trainer: Trey. 0 Official Matches, Rank Undetermined."

The girl whistled, "You really are just a fresh trainer. Take in this battle as a great experience then!" she cheered doing the same as Trey on the other side of the monitor.

"Affiliated Trainer: Maev Xeres. 5 Official Matches, 4 Wins 1 Loss, Rank Normal Class - 13,734."

The mechanical voice announced the child's name, Maev. Surprisingly, Trey even more that she had a few battles under her belt already. Even more, so that she was an Affiliated Trainer.

That must be why she's so haughty….

They both then moved to their respective boxes, Maev eager to get started. But Trey was a nervous mess as he let Rose down from his arms, placing his bags to the side as well.

"Ready?" Maev called out from the opposite box.

"No.." Trey mumbled, but then reluctantly spoke up, "Y-yeah!"

"Wonderful! Commence Match!" Maev called out, the mechanical voice then beginning to announce once again.

"One on One Match between Trainer Trey from Saffron. And Trainer Maev from Saffron. No substitutes, no recovery items. Win by Knockout or Surrender. This is an official league circuit match and will adjust Rankings accordingly," the voice said, pausing for a moment, just giving enough time for Trey to be even more nervous before it continued, "Trainers select your Pokemon."

"Go! Squirtle!" Maev shouted, throwing her Pokeball out onto the field, a Squirtle appeared in a flash of white light.

"G-go! Rose!" Trey responded, Rose, trotting out onto the field to meet Maev's Squirtle.

"Rose versus Squirtle. Trainer's Ready?" the voice asked rhetorically, as a barrier of some sort flashed around them in a purplish hue, quickly becoming clear as it solidified, "Begin!" the mechanical voice shouted.

Maeve took no time in beginning the match, her anticipation for the signal apparent as she sprung into action with her commands.

"Squirtle! Close in with Tackle! Then Water Gun!" she shouted.

Trey hesitated to respond, unsure of what command to give.

"U-uh Rose! Confusion!" Trey yelled out, commanding the first move to come to mind.

But Trey was met with a sharp pain in his head, their psychic connection disturbed for some reason, as Rose tried to follow his command.

Squirtle lunged forward moving quickly to close the gap and leapt to the side. Rose's eyes glowed for her ability but her eyes began blinking as she struggled to use the move for some reason, sweat beginning to already pool on her green cap.

What?! What's going on!?

Squirtle didn't miss the opportunity as it careened to the side, tilting back its head as a deep gurgle began coming from its mouth.

"Rose! Dodge!" Trey tried to shout, but it was too late.

Squirtle's head tilted forward as it aimed its Water Gun at Rose's side, shooting her backward just like the Flareon before. Right into the side of the barrier, falling unceremoniously to the ground.

"No, Rose!" Trey shouted, "I give up! I lost! End the match!" he yelled desperately, as he saw Rose struggling to get up.

"Trainer Trey has surrendered. Trainer Maev is the winner!"

With the voice sounding the match results, the barrier winked out of existence allowing Trey to run over to Rose, gripping her tightly in his arms.

"Rose! I'm sorry! Something is wrong, isn't it… I shouldn't have ever made you battle when we weren't ready!" Trey cried.

Trey was near hysterical with regret, but their connection reestablished allowing him to feel that she was ok once again. A soft coo coming from his arms.

"Ralts…" Rose groaned, a small tinge of embarrassment coming from her over the thread.

"It's alright sweetie, I'm just glad you're not hurt…" Trey mumbled.

"I-i I'm sorry.. I thought you were a veteran trainer that just decided to register late. Your Ralts' scars.. I believed them to be from battling… Is she alright?" Maev asked, her Squirtle giving a pensive gurgle from her side.

"I don't know…" Trey responded, truly unsure of what was going on.