Wild?, No

It had only been a day since my battle with Alain, and we decided to give our Pokémon a break from training today. The classes with Professor Sycamore continued as usual, but now Alain joined me in the lessons, which made things feel a little more lively.

In the original timeline, Alain was known for his strong desire to protect those he cared about. To achieve that, he often distanced himself from them, taking on dangerous tasks and risks. He battled legendary Pokémon like Zygarde and Groudon and even became a Team Flare agent at one point in search of power. Now that I'm here, I can only wonder how my presence will affect him. I guess time will tell.

Professor Sycamore still needed to acquire a mega stone—specifically, one that didn't belong to anyone else. That's where Alain and I came in. In a week or two, he would cover everything we needed to know before heading out into the world, and our first assignment would be to find a mega stone.

A week had passed, and we were nearly finished with our lessons. However, we still had to wait until the professor met with an important person later this week. I was curious about who this individual might be.

Alain and I continued our regular battles and training, and the intensity grew with each session. But we knew we needed experience beyond what we could learn from each other.

Tomorrow marked the day we'd leave Lumiose City and begin exploring the rest of the Kalos region. Today, we were set to meet this 'important person' the professor had mentioned.

As we made our way toward the center of the city, near Prism Tower, an air of silence settled around us, which was unusual. Professor Sycamore seemed unusually serious.

Upon reaching our destination, I spotted the sign that read "Red Café." It suddenly clicked—I knew who we were about to meet.

Stepping inside the café, we were greeted by a striking figure: a pale man with a muscular build, piercing blue eyes, and pointed red hair that framed his face and connected to his beard. He wore a tailored black suit with red accents, a fluffy grey collar, and polished black dress shoes. Fingerless gloves adorned his hands, and a Mega Ring gleamed on his left middle finger.

He sat at a central table, and the professor approached him while Alain and I followed quietly.

As we reached the table, the man acknowledged the professor but seemed to treat us like we were invisible. It wasn't until Professor Sycamore introduced us that his gaze shifted. "These are my new lab assistants, Alain and Gojo."

The man's expression transformed from calculating to warm, a welcoming smile spreading across his face. "Hello, I'm Lysandre, the founder of Lysandre Labs and Industries. It's a pleasure to meet you both." We introduced ourselves in return. As far as I remembered, Lysandre was strictly a lab scientist, but in this universe, he was a businessman too?

We settled at the table, and a waitress approached to take our orders. "I'd like some coffee, please," I requested. Alain opted for orange juice, while the professor chose tea. After our orders were taken, our focus shifted back to the reason for our meeting.

"It's been a while since we last spoke, Sycamore," Lysandre said, his tone casual but his eyes sharp.

"Yes, it has, Lysandre. To what do I owe this unexpected meeting?" the professor replied, his expression remaining composed.

"I wanted to catch up; it's been a year since we last spoke face to face."

"Oh, indeed. The last time was when you traveled to Hoenn for your research on a few stones, correct?"

"Right. It wasn't as fruitful as I had hoped, but it sufficed for the time being."

"So, what's the real reason you summoned me here?" Sycamore asked, leaning in slightly.

"Do you trust your assistants?" Lysandre's gaze narrowed, studying us intently.

"Yes, I do," Sycamore replied, his usual smile unwavering.

Lysandre sighed, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. He produced a Poké Ball and a small box, placing them on the table in front of the professor. "Inside that Poké Ball is a Snorunt. It will eventually evolve into a Glalie. And I've provided you with a Glalieite so you can mega evolve it once it does."

The three of us were taken aback, our eyes widening. The professor, initially shocked, quickly regained his composure and began firing questions at the man in the black suit.

"Calm down," Lysandre said, a frown creasing his brow. "The Glalieite is a gift for your research. I want your notes on the evolution process once you manage to mega evolve it. You don't currently possess a mega stone or any Pokémon capable of mega evolving, which has limited your research. So consider this a favor from an old childhood friend. And don't worry; I'll benefit too—I simply want your findings in return."

After contemplating for a moment, the professor finally agreed, accepting the Poké Ball and the box. Just then, our orders arrived, and we took a moment to enjoy our meals while the atmosphere around us shifted back to a quieter pace.

"So, what brings you both to assist the professor with his research?" Lysandre inquired, his tone curious.

It was nice to finally have his attention focused on us.

"We help him around the lab, taking care of Pokémon and assisting in his research on various species and mega evolution," Alain replied confidently. Lysandre appeared impressed, nodding in approval.

Professor Sycamore, noticing the exchange, added, "They'll be heading out tomorrow as my field researchers. I can't venture into the wild as I used to, given my responsibilities. Their help is invaluable."

Lysandre looked thoughtful at this statement before pulling another box from his bag and placing it before us. "This is typically the responsibility of the league, but since you'll be out in the field, I'd appreciate it if you could deliver this to Viola, the Santalune City Gym Leader." He paused, then added, "Oh, forgive me for not asking if you'd be traveling in that direction. How rude of me—"

"Don't worry, sir; we'll deliver it. We plan to explore as much of Kalos as we can," I interjected with a smile, albeit not entirely genuine.

The multi-millionaire smiled at my words. "I'll count on you for it, then. Thank you."

"It's no trouble at all, sir. You're welcome."

With most matters settled, we left the café after Professor Sycamore and Lysandre exchanged a few more words.

The next morning, we stood at the entrance of the lab, ready to embark on our adventure into the Kalos region for the first time.

Dressed in our usual attire, the only change being the bags we carried—Alain with a standard backpack and me with an office-style shoulder bag, reminiscent of the one the game's main character used.

"Stay safe out there, and don't do anything we haven't taught you," Sophie said, her smile warm.

"I've shared all the essentials you'll need to survive, so you should be fine. But good luck, and stay safe, boys," the professor added, a hint of sadness in his smile.

We both grinned at them, expressing our gratitude before setting off. "See you, Professor! Bye, Sophie!"

As we traveled along Route 4, connecting Lumiose to Santalune, the path was adorned with trees and flowers. We encountered Flabébé more than once. Now, we took a break, but there was still a long way to go before reaching Santalune. I was attempting to teach Larvitar Rock Smash. Sure, I could buy a TM, but at the moment, I didn't have any money. So, it was the old-fashioned way.

I released Larvitar, who, upon emerging from the Poké Ball, immediately shifted into serious training mode and, without needing any instruction, began practicing Rock Smash. Yeah, he's a battler at heart. When it comes to battling, he commits fully and trains like there's no tomorrow. Our break lasted about thirty minutes before we resumed our journey. I decided to keep Larvitar out with me.

In the short time I'd spent with Larvitar, I learned that, aside from his passion for battles, he was a real foodie and a softy at heart. He thrived on praise.

Alain had also released his Charmander to walk alongside him after I had done the same with Larvitar. Our walk today was uneventful, and we took a few more breaks to train before continuing. By sunset, we had covered half the distance to Santalune City. That night, we camped in the wilds, which turned out to be quite an experience.

As we prepared our meal—instant noodles, yes, they have those here too—we fed our Pokémon the food we had received from the professor. "So, how was your first day of travel?" Alain asked me, slurping up the last of his noodles.

"Good. Nothing crazy, nothing boring," I replied, glancing at my starter, who was still munching on his food. Everything felt oddly peaceful.

I was sent here from another world. Since arriving, everything has been going relatively well—except for those first few days. While I'm grateful for the lack of tension, there's been this nagging sense of unease that I just can't shake.

As night fell, Alain and I climbed into our sleeping bags. This was my first time sleeping in the wild, and I couldn't help but feel a bit on edge. I knew there were Pokémon lurking in the trees and bushes nearby; their calls and the rustling of leaves echoed around us. Could I really fall asleep in a place like this? With those thoughts swirling in my mind, I eventually drifted into an uneasy slumber.

The next morning wasn't a pleasant one. I hadn't gotten any proper sleep, my nerves completely shot from the unsettling sounds of Pokémon prowling through the forest. This was the first time since arriving in this world that I truly felt the weight of my situation. I'd been on edge all night, not even catching a wink of sleep. Honestly, at one point, I was tempted to just dash out of the forest altogether. But I knew I had to get used to this sooner or later.

Alain noticed my fatigue and called me out.

"It's your first time camping in the wild, huh? You'll get used to it," he said with a smirk.

"Yeah," I replied sheepishly, scratching the back of my neck. "I just need a little time to adjust."

"Were you too scared to sleep because of all the Pokémon noises?" he teased, laughing when I stuttered awkwardly in response.

By noon, our stomachs were growling. We found a decent patch of shade under a tree and decided to set up camp there for a while.

"I'll go gather some firewood," Alain announced before heading off into the woods.

While he was gone, I released Larvitar.

"Lar?" he tilted his head curiously.

"Lunch break, buddy. We're setting up to eat," I said, grinning. At the mention of food, he perked up and got right to work, helping me gather some good-sized rocks to make a fire pit. By the time Alain returned with a bunch of sticks, we had everything ready. We stacked the wood, and Alain's Charmander lit it up with a quick Ember. Soon, the aroma of rice and curry began to fill the air as we fed our Pokémon and settled in to eat.

But just as we were digging into our meal, both Charmander and Larvitar froze mid-bite, their eyes locking onto the dense forest ahead. Alain and I exchanged worried glances, our hands instinctively reaching for our Poké Balls.

Suddenly, there was a rustling in the bushes. A shadow darted out, swift and silent, and before I knew it, a vicious slash of dark energy cut through the air—Night Slash! We barely managed to leap out of the way as the attack sliced through our cooking pot, spilling our freshly made lunch onto the ground. My heart sank as I turned to face our assailant.

Standing before us was Absol, the Disaster Pokémon, its sharp eyes fixed on us with a chilling intensity.

It wasted no time, lunging forward to strike with another Night Slash.

"Larvitar, use Rock Throw!" I shouted, and Alain reacted just as fast.

"Charmander, Ember!"

The three attacks collided in mid-air, crackling with power. For a moment, it seemed like we might overpower Absol's strike—but that hope was dashed as its Night Slash tore through our combined attacks and sent both Larvitar and Charmander flying back, crashing into the dirt.

The sheer difference in power was clear with just one move. But we had no choice but to fight back if we wanted to survive.

"Larvitar, close in with Tackle! If it misses, follow up with Bite!" I ordered.

"Charmander, use Dragon Breath!" Alain called out.

Larvitar charged in, and Absol dodged effortlessly, but Larvitar followed up with a swift Bite, snapping at Absol's flank. Though he didn't manage to land a hit, it was enough of a distraction for Charmander to release a powerful blast of Dragon Breath at point-blank range.

The attack landed, sending Absol skidding back, visibly enraged.

"Don't let up, Larvitar—Rock Throw, now!" I commanded.

Larvitar roared, summoning a series of large stones that hovered menacingly around him. He launched them with increased speed and force. Absol dodged the first few, but a larger rock slammed into its side, throwing it off balance and leaving it open to the rest of the barrage.

Alain moved to press the attack further, but a bone-chilling cry erupted from Absol's throat, shaking the ground. The smoke from the impact dissipated, revealing Absol standing tall, its eyes glowing a furious red.

An overwhelming pressure crashed down on us. My legs felt like they were locked in place. It was like staring down a predator—one that had us cornered and was done playing.

Absol's gaze locked onto Charmander. Without warning, it unleashed a beam of dark energy—Dark Pulse!

"Alain, move—!" I shouted, but he was frozen, paralyzed by the intensity of Absol's presence. The attack hit Charmander squarely, sending him sprawling.

Charmander was out cold. Alain's eyes widened in horror as he recalled his partner, cursing himself under his breath. He looked at me, desperation in his gaze. I was the only one left.

I clenched my fists, adrenaline pumping through my veins.

"Larvitar, use Rock Smash!" I yelled, my voice trembling with urgency.

Larvitar hesitated, but he steeled himself and charged forward. I knew he hadn't fully mastered the move yet, but we had no other choice. He powered through, his tiny form glowing with raw energy as he leapt at Absol. But Absol met him head-on with Fire Fang, its fangs blazing with flames.

"Dodge at the last second, then hit it with Rock Smash!" I screamed.

Larvitar swerved just as Absol lunged, barely dodging the fiery bite. He twisted his body and drove his glowing fist into Absol's stomach with everything he had. The impact was brutal, forcing Absol to stagger back, its breath hitching.

But even a critical hit wasn't enough to take it down. Absol retaliated with a savage Night Slash, striking Larvitar down in one swift motion.

I recalled him, my heart hammering in my chest. And before I could process what had just happened, the pressure from Absol doubled. A dark aura began swirling around it, like a living shadow. Its eyes shone like twin red orbs in the darkness.

It roared, and a torrent of flames surged forward—Flamethrower. I couldn't move. My mind went blank, my body frozen as if bound by invisible chains. This was it.

But just before the flames consumed me, Alain yanked me out of the way, the searing heat singeing my clothes as we tumbled to the ground. Without missing a beat, he pulled me to my feet, and we ran. We ran with everything we had.

But Absol was relentless. It sprinted alongside us, its glowing eyes boring into mine. Its horn gleamed as it readied another attack—Air Slash.

I pushed Alain out of the way as a slash of wind grazed my back, tearing my coat and leaving a stinging pain behind. My breath hitched, but we didn't stop. We just kept running, fueled by sheer desperation.

Would things have been different if I were stronger? If I had taken training seriously instead of wasting time in the lab?

My thoughts were interrupted when Alain looked back and shouted, eyes wide in terror. I followed his gaze to see Absol leaping into the air, Fire Fang burning bright.

My body moved on its own—I swung my fist, feeling my knuckles connect solidly with Absol's face.

It recoiled, shocked, and Alain dragged me forward again. Blood dripped from my swollen knuckles, but there was no time to think. Absol had enough. It appeared in front of us in a blur of motion—Quick Attack.

The pressure became unbearable. The forest around us darkened, and Absol's dark aura pulsed like a living nightmare.

It opened its mouth, and a sinister dark orb began to form—a Death Sentence aimed right at me.

Time seemed to slow.

"At least give me a villain speech before killing me," I thought numbly, frozen in place as the beam of darkness shot towards me.

I could do nothing but stare at my inevitable doom. Alain had tears in his eyes now, desperately shouting my name, telling me to move, to do something.

But the world around me was flickering, like a poorly tuned TV screen. Once, twice—

"A battlefield littered with lifeless bodies, and in front of me… a shadowed figure that looked like a Pokémon, its eyes glowing a malevolent red. Behind it stood three more silhouettes, each with the same sinister, crimson gaze. I was paralyzed, rooted in place as they loomed over me, those eyes piercing through the darkness—"

BOOM!

BOOM!

The explosion sent me hurtling backward, crashing into a tree. Pain shot through my entire body, not from a direct hit, but from the sheer force of the shockwave. As I struggled to catch my breath, I heard a commanding voice cut through the chaos.

"Heracross, use Close Combat!"

A powerful Heracross came barreling down from above, launching a relentless assault on Absol. The Disaster Pokémon recoiled, desperately trying to retreat, but the Heracross was unyielding, its attacks mercilessly pounding into Absol's frame until the Pokémon finally managed to escape, limping back into the forest.

Still stunned, my body trembling and bruised, I forced myself to look around for our mysterious savior.

She was already checking on Alain. A woman of medium height with a confident air about her. Her blonde hair, styled into a chin-length bob, curled neatly at the ends, and two slightly longer, thin strands framed her face. Her piercing green eyes were sharp, yet there was a certain warmth to them. She wore a white vest, greyish-green cropped pants with numerous pockets, and a matching white belt. Brown ankle boots laced up tightly over her trousers, and a sweatband adorned her left wrist. A camera hung securely from a strap across her torso, giving her the appearance of an experienced field reporter.

Noticing me, she quickly rushed to my side.

"Hey, are you alright?" she asked, concern lacing her voice as she began checking me over.

"Other than the pain from crashing into the tree, which just aggravated my already injured back and swollen knuckles, I'm relatively fine. Thank you so much. I honestly don't know what would've happened to me if you hadn't shown up," I thanked her, giving a strained smile despite the pain.

She looked slightly embarrassed, shifting her gaze momentarily. "Well, let's not waste time talking about it. We need to get you both back to the city and checked out. Do you have any Pokémon with you?" she asked, offering me support as I struggled to stand.

"Yes, two. They're both injured from the battle... and we'll probably need to go back to grab our belongings as well," I replied with a groan as each step sent a sharp pain through my back.

I glanced over at Alain, who was still staring into the forest, his eyes narrowed, fixed on the spot where the Absol had disappeared. I called out to him, snapping him out of whatever thoughts had gripped him.

He hurried over, concern etched on his face as he looked me over. "Are you really alright, Gojo?" he asked, his voice thick with worry.

"Yeah, don't worry. I'll be fine," I assured him, though my tone lacked conviction. I sank down against a tree, letting out a pained breath. "I'll wait here while you both go and get our stuff."

"But—" he started, hesitant.

"Just go," I insisted with a weary smile. "I think it's better if I rest and let my body recover a little."

He still looked unconvinced but finally nodded reluctantly. With one last glance at me, he followed our savior back into the woods. Now, alone and left with my thoughts, I exhaled slowly, trying to ease the tension in my aching body.

The woman who had saved us was Viola, the Santalune City Gym Leader. I hadn't expected to encounter someone like her out here. After I'm out of the hospital, I'll probably have to thank her properly...

My mind wandered back to my arrival in this world. Since then, I'd almost convinced myself to ignore all my prior knowledge about this place—thinking it was somehow irrelevant. But that was a foolish decision. I'd intended to spend my time waiting for Ash's arrival, just idling away in the lab, maybe helping Professor Sycamore here and there. The tranquility of the lab, and the sense of routine I'd found, made me forget where I truly was. I let myself get comfortable—I let myself believe that I wasn't really in the Pokémon world. But... why?

I clenched my jaw as a wave of pain shot through my back, forcing me to groan softly.

No, I knew why. It's because I had started forming bonds here. With Professor Sycamore, Sophie, Alain... After everything that happened in my past life, after losing the people I loved, I'd isolated myself for so long—no real friends, no meaningful connections beyond acquaintances from college and colleagues at my part-time job. When I was suddenly thrown into this new world, I got blinded by the excitement of it all, and by the warmth of the people who welcomed me with open arms.

And in that happiness, I'd let myself forget the danger.

These past two days... they've been brutal wake-up calls. The looming threat of Lysandre and now the brutal reminder of just how wild and dangerous this world can be. I was naive to think I could sit idly in a lab and avoid getting involved. How foolish of me to believe I could shut out the reality of where I am.

I shook my head, clearing away the lingering regret. What's done is done. I need to be more aware moving forward. I have to be.

But then there's the Absol... Disaster Pokémon, harbingers of calamity. They only appear where great misfortune is about to strike. And for one to show up out of nowhere and attack me specifically?

I scoffed under my breath, wincing at the ache in my ribs. My "wake-up call" just got even worse.

If an Absol targeting me isn't a bad omen, then I don't know what is.

We finally made it back to the city, with Alain supporting most of my weight as I hobbled along. While he was relatively unscathed, I wasn't as lucky and had been stuck in a hospital bed for two days. I'd recovered without any serious injuries, but the lingering soreness was a constant reminder of how close things had been.

Officer Jenny had stopped by during my stay, her expression a mix of suspicion and concern as she questioned us about the incident. An Absol attacking out of nowhere wasn't normal, but without evidence, she couldn't do much other than warn me to stay out of trouble and move on.

The moment I was discharged, I headed straight for the Pokémon Center. I had to check on my partner.

When I stepped into the Center, the cool, sterile air hit me, making me feel both anxious and eager. Nurse Joy greeted me with her usual professional smile as I handed over my Pokédex. She typed in a few commands, her gaze softening when she returned Larvitar's Pokéball to me.

"Your partner's made a full recovery," she assured me warmly.

Taking the ball in my hands, I took a deep breath and released Larvitar. The instant the light faded and his small form appeared, I felt a wave of relief. He looked unhurt—no bruises, no cuts—just as strong and sturdy as he always was. But before I could fully process it, Larvitar's body went rigid. His eyes darted around frantically, and his claws dug into the floor, every muscle coiled as if expecting the worst.

"Hey, hey, it's okay," I murmured softly, crouching down to his level.

His gaze shot to mine, wide and fearful, until he realized where we were. Slowly, the tension in his body melted away. Then, without warning, he lunged forward, leaping onto me with a small, desperate cry. I stumbled, struggling to catch him as he scrambled up, clinging to my chest like a lifeline. His tiny frame was shaking, and I could feel the tremors running through him.

"Larvitar?" I whispered, feeling my own chest tighten at the sight of him so distressed. He peered up at me, eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"Don't worry, buddy. I'm fine," I assured him, gently stroking his smooth, rocky skin. The sensation was oddly comforting, grounding me as much as it seemed to soothe him.

He let out a shaky sigh, leaning into my touch. But just as quickly, his expression shifted to one of fury. He turned his head sharply and growled—a low, menacing sound completely out of place for someone so small. His eyes blazed with determination as he tried to assert his dominance against an invisible enemy. I knew who he was imagining. The Absol. The threat that had loomed over us like a nightmare.

Despite myself, a soft chuckle escaped me. "You're really something, you know that?" I murmured, ruffling his head gently. "But we're safe now. That Absol's not here."

Still, I ran my fingers over him, checking every inch of his tiny body for any signs of lingering damage. Satisfied that he was as healthy as Nurse Joy claimed, I gave him a reassuring nod and stood up.

"Come on. Let's get out of here," I whispered.

Larvitar clung to me as I made my way outside, where Alain was waiting.

"Ready?" he asked, glancing between me and Larvitar with a small smile.

"Yeah. We've got a delivery to make," I replied, shifting Larvitar onto my shoulder. "To the Santalune Gym."

At Santalune Gym

The Santalune Gym was a masterpiece of modern architecture, its glass and steel exterior gleaming in the sunlight. From the outside, it looked more like a gallery that housed rare pieces of art rather than a place where Pokémon battles took place. Stepping inside only reinforced that impression. The interior walls were lined with photographs—each one a snapshot capturing the grace and intricacy of Bug-type Pokémon. Beedrills hovered mid-flight, Butterfree glistened in the golden glow of sunrise, and Ariados weaved webs of delicate silk that shimmered under artificial lights.

But there was no time to admire the view. The sound of combat drew us to the battlefield, where Viola was already in the middle of a match. Her opponent stood opposite her, his shoulders squared and his expression fierce as he directed his Pokémon—Magmar, the flame Pokémon. The crimson beast stood tall, its body radiating intense heat that made the air around it shimmer.

Viola's Vivillon hovered in the air, its delicate wings fluttering softly.

"Magmar, use Flamethrower!" the challenger commanded, his voice confident.

Magmar reared back, taking a deep breath before unleashing a torrent of fire. The flames roared forward, swallowing Vivillon in a blaze of crimson and gold. When the fire dissipated, the Bug-type was sprawled on the ground, its delicate wings scorched. The referee raised a flag.

"Vivillon is unable to battle! Please send out your final Pokémon, Gym Leader!" he announced.

Viola's eyes narrowed thoughtfully as she recalled Vivillon. "Very well," she murmured, a faint smirk playing on her lips. She plucked a Pokéball from her belt and released her last Pokémon.

"Let's go, Heracross!"

The massive Bug/Fighting-type materialized on the field, its horn gleaming ominously in the gym's fluorescent lights. My heart skipped a beat. It was the same Heracross that had driven off that wild Absol.

The challenger's smirk widened. "Perfect. I've got a type advantage! Magmar, let's make quick work of it! Use Flamethrower again!"

Magmar lunged forward, flames bursting from its maw.

"Meet it head-on with Megahorn!" Viola countered, her voice sharp.

Heracross surged forward, its horn glowing with a brilliant white light as it charged straight through the flames. The collision created a massive explosion in the center of the field, sending shockwaves rippling through the gym. The force of the impact made me take a step back, instinctively shielding Larvitar.

When the smoke cleared, both Pokémon stood their ground, eyes locked in a battle of wills.

"Heracross, Focus Blast!" Viola ordered.

The Bug-type's fists glowed as it gathered energy, forming a brilliant sphere of golden light. It hurled the orb forward with a powerful throw.

"Block it with Fire Punch!" the challenger shouted.

Magmar's fist ignited as it swung upward, meeting the Focus Blast head-on. The attacks collided in a burst of energy, but the Fire-type staggered as the sphere broke through, slamming into its chest and knocking it back.

"Bug Buzz!" Viola called out, her eyes sharp.

Heracross began flapping its wings at a blinding speed, the rapid motion creating a high-pitched hum that reverberated through the gym. The sound waves rippled outward, enveloping Magmar in a crushing wall of sound. The Fire-type shuddered, its movements sluggish as the attack tore through its defenses.

"Finish it with Hyper Beam!"

Time seemed to slow as Heracross gathered its energy, a glowing orb forming at the tip of its horn. With a roar, it unleashed the beam—a searing, blinding pillar of light that shot across the battlefield.

"Dodge!" the challenger cried desperately.

Magmar leapt to the side, narrowly avoiding the beam as it scorched the ground where it had been standing. But Viola wasn't done.

"Launch it across the entire field, Heracross!" she commanded.

Heracross swung the beam in a wide arc, sweeping it across the battlefield. Magmar tried to escape, but the Hyper Beam caught it mid-leap, detonating in a brilliant explosion that rocked the entire gym. When the smoke cleared, Magmar lay unconscious, its eyes replaced by swirls.

"Magmar is unable to battle! The winner is Viola!" the referee declared.

"Wow... she's this strong?" Alain whispered beside me, eyes wide.

I could only nod, stunned. This battle wasn't anything like what I'd expected.

"Wow… Viola is actually this strong?" Alain murmured in disbelief, his wide eyes locked on the battlefield. His voice was hushed, as if afraid to break the intensity in the air.

"I'm as surprised as you are, buddy," I replied softly, shaking my head. Even I couldn't mask the awe that crept into my tone. The match had been an intense three-on-three bout, yet it wasn't just the battle itself that had caught me off-guard. It was her choice of Pokémon. Viola had brought out a Heracross—completely unexpected. Neither in the games nor the anime had she ever used this powerhouse before. This changed up a lot of things.

The battlefield was still smoldering with the aftermath of powerful Bug and Fire-type moves. The sight of Heracross standing tall over its defeated opponent—a Magmar—sent a chill down my spine. Its exoskeleton gleamed under the gym's bright lights, making it look more like a warrior adorned in polished armor than a Pokémon.

"Why did she only use attacks that were launched from a distance?" Alain's question pulled me back from my thoughts.

"They're called special attacks," I explained, eyes never leaving the battlefield where Viola was now speaking softly to the defeated trainer. Her voice carried a gentle authority, firm but kind as she pointed out what he could improve upon. "Getting too close to a Pokémon like Magmar is risky. Heracross could easily end up burned if it made physical contact. And since Bug-types are already at a disadvantage against Fire, getting burned would be a death sentence."

Understanding lit up in Alain's eyes. "Oh, so that's why she kept her distance. That makes sense now," he mused, nodding to himself. There was a newfound respect in his gaze as he watched Viola's Heracross return to her side.

The young trainer bowed respectfully, thanked Viola for the battle, and left the field, a determined glint in his eye. As soon as the boy exited the arena, Alain and I made our way down from the spectator stands and approached her.

"Hey, are you guys doing okay now?" she called out as we neared, her expression warm and genuine.

"Yeah, the doctors discharged me earlier today," I replied, smiling back.

"That's great to hear." Relief softened her gaze, making her look almost sisterly. "So, what brings you two here? If you're just here to thank me, there's really no need for that. I did what anyone would do in that situation—help out when needed."

A small smile tugged at my lips. "I am really grateful for your help, but we're here on more official business," I said, straightening slightly. "But before we get into that, let me introduce us properly. I'm Gojo Satoru, and this is Alain. We're research assistants working under Professor Sycamore."

Her brows lifted slightly, a flicker of surprise passing through her eyes before she quickly masked it with a teasing grin. "Oh! I didn't introduce myself back then either, did I? But I guess that's not necessary now," she chuckled, the sound light and melodic. "I'm Viola, the Gym Leader of Santalune City. So, what business do two assistants of Professor Sycamore have with little ol' me?"

Her grin turned mischievous, and I could see the curiosity sparkling in her gaze. She was intrigued.

Alain didn't waste a moment, reaching into his satchel and pulling out the small, elegant box that Lysandre had entrusted us with. He handed it over carefully, as if it were a treasure that could shatter at the slightest jostle.

"We were asked to deliver this to you by Lysandre," I said as she opened the box, my curiosity piquing as well. We hadn't peeked inside, so I had no idea what the contents were.

The moment Viola lifted the lid, her eyes widened in shock, a gasp escaping her lips. Slowly, she reached in and pulled out not one, but two shimmering stones—one glowing with the unmistakable crystalline energy of a Key Stone, the other radiating a faint, pulsing light that could only belong to a Mega Stone. Both Alain and I stiffened, our breaths catching in our throats.

Viola's fingers brushed the smooth surface of the stones reverently, as if afraid they would vanish if she didn't handle them delicately. Then, her expression morphed into one of pure, unrestrained joy.

"Finally!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement. She hastily pulled out a white scarf from her waist bag, her movements quick and almost frantic as she secured the Mega Stone within it. The sight of her tying the scarf around Heracross's neck made my heart race. I had seen Mega Stones and Key Stones before, but the excitement in the air was palpable.

Alain leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper. "Is that a… Mega Stone and a Key Stone?"

Viola's smirk turned almost feral, a predator's grin that sent a shiver down my spine. "Yes. I was the only Gym Leader in the region who hadn't received one yet. But not anymore." Her eyes gleamed with determination, and for a moment, she looked more like a Champion than a Gym Leader. "Finally, I have it."

Her words made my stomach drop. "Wait, did I hear that right? You mean… all the Gym Leaders in the region have access to Mega Evolution now?" I asked, the shock clear in my voice.

"Yes, every single one of us," she confirmed, slipping the Key Stone into the lens of her camera clicker. "The League distributed Mega Stones and Key Stones to all the Champions and Elite Fours in the established regions, except for a couple of outliers. And recently, they decided to bolster Kalos's standards by giving every Gym Leader access to Mega Evolution."

Both Alain and I stood there, dumbstruck. If what she was saying was true, then every single Gym Leader in Kalos had access to a power that could completely turn the tides of battle. This changed the entire landscape of the League Challenge.

"Why the Gym Leaders?" Alain echoed, his voice almost drowned out by the pounding of my own heart.

"The League wants to push Kalos's trainers to their limits," she explained, her tone matter-of-fact. "It's not just about making the challenges harder. They want to raise the overall skill level of the trainers who make it to the League. Mega Evolution is the new benchmark. Only the best will rise to the top."

Her explanation left me stunned. This wasn't just about power—it was a complete restructuring of the region's standards. By introducing Mega Evolution, they were essentially weeding out the weaker trainers, ensuring that only the truly exceptional would get the chance to face the Elite Four and Champion.

A determined smile tugged at her lips. "And since you two delivered this to me, it's only fair that I give you a front-row seat for its first trial."

My heart skipped a beat. Was she saying…?

Before I could even respond, Viola turned to Heracross, raising her arm dramatically. "Okay, Heracross! It's time! Respond to my call—Mega Evolve!"

The moment she activated the Key Stone, a surge of brilliant light erupted from the stone, crackling through the air. The gym seemed to vibrate with the raw energy pouring out. Heracross was engulfed in a swirling vortex of white and pink light, its silhouette shifting and growing within the cocoon.

And then, with a deafening roar, the light shattered like glass, revealing a transformed Heracross. Its frame was larger, more muscular, and its horn had extended into a deadly spike that looked sharp enough to pierce steel. The sheer presence it exuded was overwhelming, making the very ground tremble beneath our feet.

Viola laughed, the sound wild and ecstatic. "Yes! This is it! This is the power I've been waiting for!"

Heracross, now in its Mega form, let out a cry that sent shockwaves through the gym. The sound reverberated off the walls, causing a few glass windows to crack under the pressure. I could feel the power radiating off it, a tangible force that made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.

Of course, I would react like that. I was witnessing Mega-Evolution for the first time in real life.

Heracross stood proudly in its newly-evolved form, muscles rippling beneath its glossy exoskeleton. Its eyes gleamed with unwavering focus, embodying a warrior ready for battle. Not a single quiver or tremor disturbed its stance; this Pokémon was perfectly composed, entirely in control of its newfound power. It didn't flail uncontrollably or roar in a frenzy like some Pokémon do after their first Mega Evolution. No, Heracross radiated strength and composure, a living testament to the bond it shared with Viola.

The sight struck me with awe. That could only mean one thing: Viola and Heracross shared a connection so profound that it could withstand the intense strain of Mega Evolution. Despite the overwhelming surge of energy coursing through its body, Heracross had remained calm, showcasing the trust and understanding forged over countless battles. It stood before us—every inch the fearsome, battle-hardened warrior it was meant to be.

"Wow, Viola. That's… impressive," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper. My words felt small compared to the raw power radiating from Heracross, but they were all I could muster. This was a game-changer. If Gym Leaders could wield this kind of power in official battles, the dynamics of training and battling would shift dramatically.

"Wait," I blurted out, turning to Viola with wide eyes. "So now… every Gym battle is a three-on-three where the challenger has to defeat a Mega Evolution Pokémon?"

Viola shook her head, her lips curving into a knowing smile. "No, not exactly," she replied, reaching up to pat Heracross's side with a gentle hand. The intimidating Pokémon leaned into her touch, eyes closing slightly as if savoring the affection. "The decision to use Mega Evolution lies entirely with the Gym Leader. If we believe the challenger is worthy—if they show enough strength, skill, and resolve—then we'll use Mega Evolution. Otherwise, there's no need."

She glanced at me, her gaze sharp yet thoughtful. "It's a way to test a challenger's true potential. After all, only those with real strength should face this level of power."

Her words sank in, and I began to contemplate the implications. Kalos wasn't just adding power to its Gym Leaders—they were raising the stakes for everyone involved. This was more than a challenge; it was a filter, a crucible designed to separate the ordinary from the extraordinary. Only those with exceptional talent and grit would make it to the League. No room for mediocrity anymore.

The Gym Leaders were already formidable. But granting them access to Mega Evolution? It transformed even the earlier Gyms into insurmountable challenges that only the strongest trainers could hope to scale. I could feel a surge of excitement coursing through me at the prospect of what lay ahead. I would face these challengers head-on, each battle an opportunity to prove my own strength. I'd have to adapt and evolve just as my Pokémon did. The thrill of the challenge made my heart race, a powerful mix of anticipation and pressure churning within me.

"Raising the bar, huh?" I murmured, more to myself than to anyone else.

Viola nodded, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Kalos has always prided itself on producing exceptional trainers. But now? Now we're aiming even higher. By giving Gym Leaders access to this power, we're not just raising our standards—we're redefining them. Only the best trainers will be able to stand up to that challenge."

I watched as Viola ran a final check over her Mega Heracross, her smile softening as she murmured something low and soothing to the Pokémon. Heracross rumbled in response, its wings buzzing faintly before folding back neatly. This bond between Trainer and Pokémon wasn't merely strategic; it was a testament to trust, loyalty, and unyielding strength.

"So if a Gym Leader chooses not to use Mega Evolution, it's because…?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

"It's because the challenger still has room to grow," Viola finished, turning back to me. "It's not just about making battles harder. It's about pushing challengers to their limits, making them realize their weaknesses and strive for more. Only the best will get past us."

I nodded slowly, absorbing every word. That made sense. They weren't just giving away power; they were wielding it with purpose. If I wanted to beat these Gym Leaders, I'd need to be stronger than ever. I'd have to rise to the occasion, no shortcuts and no holding back.

The thought of stepping into the arena against challengers with such formidable Pokémon filled me with a fierce determination. My hands tingled with anticipation, a desperate urge to get back to training. I wanted to hone my skills and be the very best I could be.

Our business with Viola wrapped up soon after that. With Heracross de-Mega Evolved and resting comfortably, she expressed her gratitude once again for delivering the stones. We exchanged a few more words before taking our leave, the heavy reality of the new Kalos standards hanging over us like a looming storm cloud.

Alain and I didn't waste any time after leaving the Gym. The weight of the task ahead pressed down on us, and we both knew we had to return to Professor Sycamore as quickly as possible. We needed answers. What other surprises were hidden in Kalos's battle circuit? And what impact would this have on trainers like me?

The journey back to Lumiose City felt longer than before, the landscape blurring past us as we rode through dense forests and open fields. Two days seemed to stretch into eternity, anticipation gnawing at me like a living thing. The entire time, one thought kept looping in my mind: how many more Gym Leaders had received Mega Stones? What about the Elite Four?

And more importantly… how was I going to face these challengers when the time came?

Finally, the skyline of Lumiose City emerged on the horizon, its shimmering spire towering like a beacon. The familiar sight of the Prism Tower settled something in my chest—determination, resolve, maybe a flicker of excitement.

"Time to get to work," I muttered, turning to Alain with a grin that felt genuine for the first time in days. He nodded, his own expression a mix of seriousness and eagerness.

There was no turning back now. With Kalos raising the stakes, it was time for me to rise to the challenge too.

It had been a week since our little "adventure." As soon as we returned to the lab, both Professor Sycamore and Sophie laid into us for recklessly getting into trouble with that Absol. I could see the worry etched into their faces even as they scolded us—they cared, after all.

I spent most of that week delving deep into research, trying to piece together more about this world and its Pokémon League structures. It was a bit of a struggle at first. I hadn't even set up an account on the "social media" platforms here. There was Pokegram, Poketube, and even Poketweet. Yeah, it's as cringey as it sounds, but I guess it gets the job done.

Meanwhile, the Unova League would be kicking off in three months, and the next season for the Kalos League was still a good seven months away. My one-month probation had also just wrapped up, leaving me with one more to go. But that was hardly the most interesting thing I discovered.

Here's a quick summary of the intel I dug up:

Kanto and Johto were governed by a single Champion: Lance Wataru, the formidable Dragon Master. Both regions shared the same Elite Four, consisting of Bruno, Koga, Karen, and Sabrina. Sabrina's old role as the Saffron Gym Leader was now held by Will. It seemed like every victor of the Indigo or Silver Conference had the rare opportunity to challenge the Elite Four.

In Hoenn, the steel-type specialist Steven Stone still held his title as Champion, with an Elite Four lineup that boasted Sidney, Phoebe, Glacia, and Drake. The grand stage for them was the Ever Grande Conference.

Then there's Sinnoh, boasting one of the most formidable champions in the world—Cynthia Shirona. She's widely regarded as the strongest for her mastery over various Pokémon types and battle strategies. Her Elite Four lineup had seen some changes. There's Paul now—yeah, that Paul—alongside Aaron, Flint, and Lucian. Bertha had retired, making way for Paul to rise up the ranks. I had to take a moment when I read that. Paul, an Elite Four member? It felt surreal.

Unova, meanwhile, hadn't seen much change. The region was still under the command of Champion Alder, with the same quartet of Elite Four members: Shauntal, Grimsley, Marshal, and Caitlin. The Vertress Conference was still the stage for the strongest trainers to prove their worth.

Kalos? That region's under the reign of the world-famous actress and Champion, Diantha. Her Elite Four consisted of Malva, Siebold, Wikstrom, and Drasna. The Lumiose Conference was the proving ground there.

Alola was a bit of an outlier. No official League structure, just a region known for its scenic beauty and laid-back vibe. Their only noteworthy trainer was the regional Professor, Kukui. I wasn't entirely sure if the Melemele Islands even counted as a serious Pokémon circuit. Seemed more like a tourist spot than a battlefield.

Galar, however, was an entirely different beast. Champion Leon—the man who's practically worshipped as the strongest Trainer alive—stood at the top. There's endless debate about whether he's stronger than Cynthia, but the fact that people even question it says something. Galar didn't have an Elite Four either. Instead, they held a high-stakes Championship Match against the Wyndon Conference Champion.

Then there was Paldea. A newly discovered region with almost nothing concrete to go on. All I knew was that they had a League and a Champion named Geeta. Beyond that? Nothing. It was a frustrating mystery, but I suppose every new land needs time before its secrets are fully unearthed.

I knew a fair bit from the games up to Sword and Shield and had followed the anime until Journeys. But Paldea? That was mostly unfamiliar territory. I only knew their starters, the rival Nemona, and that new battle gimmick—the Terastallizing phenomenon.

Yet, the more I researched, the more I realized just how different this world was from the canon I remembered. Because here, there was something called the Supreme Pokémon League.

The Supreme League's Chairman, Charles Goodshow, was basically the mastermind behind the entire system, mediating all inter-regional conflicts and ensuring the smooth operation of the Pokémon League circuits. It was less of a battle organization and more like an international court, where the strongest champions and Elite Fours gathered to handle crises under the watchful eye of international officials.

Spinning around in my chair, I let out a heavy sigh. I had just scratched the surface, but what I'd found was already mind-boggling. This world was an intricate puzzle with countless pieces, and each new piece only seemed to reveal just how little I actually knew.

But enough research for now. I needed to stretch my legs a bit, maybe clear my head. Besides, there was still something I had to do—train my Larvitar. After that Absol incident, Professor Sycamore had insisted that I stay put at the lab for another month. Partly for my probation period to end, and partly so he could supervise some of my training.

But now? Now that I'd made up my mind to dive into this world and make my mark, why waste time?

Slipping on my glasses, I strode out of the research room and into the expansive Pokémon sanctuary. The moment I stepped outside, the wind picked up, billowing through my coat with a dramatic flair. I paused, letting the air whip around me, and then turned with a cocky grin as if addressing an invisible audience.

"Alright, then," I murmured to myself, my grin widening into a full-blown smirk. "Time to show you all what I'm really made of."

The thrill of competition, the anticipation of honing my skills against the toughest trainers and Gym Leaders out there—it all coursed through my veins like a wild fire. This world might have its own rules, its own powerhouses and legends, but I was determined to rise to the top. No compromises. No hesitation.

This was just the beginning.