Chapter 17

"Ditto, my name is Leon, would you like to become my first partner? Let's explore new places together, and I promise to make you the strongest Ditto in the world," Leon communicated telepathically and used his aura to show his sincerity.

Ditto bounced to imitate a nod. He was bored in his habitat. He wanted to go outside and experience new things. He knew that becoming stronger as a Ditto was near impossible without a trainer.

Leon used a pokeball that Prof. Oak gave him a while ago. It had his soul imprint making the pokeball became a medium in linking both his and ditto's soul together and created a soul bound. They can use it to communicate if the soul bound becomes strong enough.

Prof. Oak explained that with the help of ghost type pokemon, they were able to identify the human soul. Each soul had its own unique "fingerprint" and that is what the imprint is used for. Only the person who has been imprinted on the pokeball can use it.

Leon caught Ditto.

"Congratulations, Leon! I can't wait to see how strong your ditto will become," Prof. Oak said.

Although Mike tried to discourage Leon's choice of pokemon at first, he was also looking forward to seeing how his ditto would grow.

"Leon, have you thought about my suggestion in going to Oak's Academy?" Mike asked.

At the age of 12, aspiring trainers are recommended to join a Pokemon Academy to increase their chances of survival once they go on with their journey.

The Monarch protocol was introduced to motivate young trainers to attend the academy. They would obtain a Monarch pokemon if they graduate within the Top 10 and a pseudo-legendary pokemon for the Top 3 graduates.

It is a 3-year course and the classes are very flexible. They can still explore on their own while attending the academy.

"Yes, Mike. I have thought about it and would like to enroll. The start of the semester is in three months, right?" Leon asked.

"That is an excellent choice, Leon and yes the academy will start in 3 months." Mike answered.

"Pokemon Academies have drastically reduced the Rookie Trainers' mortality rate. Long time ago, we just let those 12-year-old run free. A lot of them became traumatized and died because of not knowing what to do." Prof. Oak added.

In the show, they just sent them off without a care in the world. I'm glad this world still has some sense, Leon thought.

"Alright, we have to go. Don't forget to introduce your partner to the Monarchs tomorrow and inform them of your decision to attend Oak's Academy. We already have a senior care taker to replace you when you leave," Prof. Oak said.

"Okay Prof. Oak and Mike. Thanks again for everything," Leon bowed in gratitude.

Both smiled and nodded, then went their own ways.

Leon returned to his room to talk to ditto.