No POV
The world of Pokémon. These mysterious creatures can be seen everywhere on this planet-in the sea, in
forests, in towns, and all over the world. Even believed to exist in other dimensions. People and Pokémon form various bonds
and live together in this world.
This is but a story in which people and trainers come together in order to embark on a grand adventure, where their ideals will be tested, and they will be forced to seek out the truth.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Kanto region. One of the most famous regions, thanks to the appearance of many strong trainers and influential people, such as the legendary Pokémon professor, Samuel Oak. In a certain place, a young girl named Liko, dressed in a school uniform, belonging to Kanto's Indigo Academy, arrives at a certain route, carrying a suitcase.
Liko: Hey, I found it! Route 22.
Liko, with her suitcase, walks over to the bus stop, where a young girl is waving at her. Liko, taken aback, freezes slightly cause of this.
Girl 1:*Happy* Hey!
Liko: …
Liko hesitates for a split second but just as she was about to raise her hand to return the greeting-
Girl 2: *Waving behind Liko* Hey, you! *Chuckles* You beat me.
The girl walks over to the bus stop and sits on the bench. Seeing that, Liko sighs to herself. She then sits at the other end of the bench.
Girl 2: Good day so far?
Girl 1: Mm-hm.
As the two friends begin to talk, Liko is there, feeling a bit awkward. Because of that, her presence is soon noticed, as the two girls stare at her curiously.
Girl 2: Do you know her?
Girl 1: No idea.
As they talked, Liko shrank herself a little, as she closed her eyes to think.
Liko's Thoughts: *To herself* Oh! Liko, what was that?!
As she thinks that, a Rattata, who was resting nearby, suddenly approaches Liko and begins to growl at her but she doesn't notice yet.
Liko's Thoughts: No idea. I guess I am kind of a stranger. I mean, it's not like a lot of people know me.
As that thought crosses her mind, she turns her gaze to the Rattata, finally noticing it. Feeling the girl's gaze, Rattata suddenly scares her, making Liko yelp.
Liko: *Flinches* Argh!!!
The Rattata runs away. The girls looked at her a bit confused, but soon went back to their talk. Liko sighs before looking down again.
Liko: *To herself* I don't even know that I really know me. How would I know? But…
The bus horn honks, signaling its arrival as it parks by the bus stop. A Machop steps down and picks up Liko's suitcase.
Machop: Machop!
Liko: Thanks so much, Machop.
Once that happens, Liko and the girls quickly climb onto the bus. All of them get comfortable as the bus driver and Machop get back inside.
Liko's Thoughts: I feel like there's something I'm supposed to know—that I don't know right now. But I just don't know what.
The bus then leaves. As it does, the sound of many kids is present, as some people begin to talk inside a bus. The two girls who were at the bus stop with Liko started to watch a video on their Rotom Phone, which got Liko's attention.
There, she sees a familiar figure that she herself also enjoys watching. A famous Poke-Tuber, who was dressed in a body suit of a female Nidoran, Nidothing.
Beside the figure, a Quaxly was present.
Nidothing: Hey, hey, hey!
Quaxly: Qua, qua!
Nidothing: All you epic Pokémon Trainers, it's your pal Nidothing…
The girls laugh at the video.
Girl 1: Nidothing's the best.
Liko, seeing that, gets taken aback.
Liko's Thoughts: *Realization* Nidothing?! I love Nidothing, too! Is what I would say if I could talk to people. *Conscious* But I never know how to start. And while I'm wondering how to start… I missed my chance to do anything at all.
Saddened that her shyness caused her to not commit to making friends, Liko looks out the window, looking at all the Kanto region Pokémon. She sees a Fearow swoop by from close range and gasps.
Along those Pokémon, she also sees a few Onix, surprisingly outside of caves, some Tauros, and even some Butterfree
Liko's Thoughts: Wow! The Kanto region. So many Pokémon I've never seen before. It's so exciting.
As she stares in awe, something suddenly catches her attention.
Liko's Thoughts: *Confused* Huh? What's that?
The flying Pokémon all suddenly start to get away from the area, as even other students start to notice the same thing Liko did.
All of them looked outside the window, noticing how a massive thunder cloud had formed in the sky.
Blue lighting even started to strike downward, center of the cloud seemed to glow blue.
Liko's Thoughts: Wait...Is that? Blue lighting? Is this a normal event here in Kanto?
As she asked herself that, suddenly, the thunder cloud started to dissipate, as the students all continued to murmur.
Bus Driver: Calm down, children. It was most likely Zaptos.
Boy 1: Zaptos?
Girl 3: *Realization* O-Oh! One of Kanto's Legendary birds! Really sir!
Boy 2: *Pondering* But why would a Zaptos be around there, sir?
Bus driver: *Smile* Around this area, there's been an increase in Electric Power plants. Every once in a while, people have claimed to have seen the Pokémon
As the man said that, Liko watched the clouds with a lot of interest.
Liko's Thoughts: W-Woah...A Legendary Pokémon? What is what? People even seemed faci-*Sees something* Hey...What's that?
Right as the storm clouds dissipated, Liko could have sworn she had seen a sort...Black dot with blue highlights in the middle of it, before it disappeared.
Seeing the lack of reaction of her future classmates, Liko was sure she was the only one who saw it.
Liko's Thoughts: D-Did it leave...?
As thoughts rose in Liko's mind, her mind went blank for most of the journey until she arrived at her new school for her first day, Indigo Academy.
The school itself was very large. It was equipped with not only dorms for the students to live in and classrooms, but also cafeterias, as well as battlefields for the young trainers to battle or practice.
As Liko stood in the entrance, she gathered her courage.
Liko's Thoughts: Well, here goes nothing.
Liko shows a determined look and walks her way through the gateway. As she begins to head toward her dorm, various students walk about with their Pokémon and other things. In fact, Liko even heard some people talk about the thunderstorm that appeared.
After walking for a bit, Liko finally arrived at the dorms. After asking, she was told which room she was in: a door with the code 303.
Liko: I found it. Room 303.
As Liko opened the door, inside room 303, a girl was chucking things out of her basket. Liko immediately froze, taken off guard by the other person in the room.
???: Come on, hairbrush! Where do you go?
Hearing the door opening, the person perks up and then looks back at Liko.
???: Hmm?
They look at each other, while the room on one side is completely untidy. Feeling the girl's gaze and hesitation about the room, Liko slowly closes the door.
Liko: Oops. Wrong room. Sorry!
Once the door closed, Liko grunted, embarrassed that she apparently got the wrong room.
Liko's Thoughts: Well, that was awkward. I don't get it. Did I read the number wrong or…? *Checks* No, this says 303.
As Liko questions whether her eyes had played tricks on her or if she had misheard the dorm administrator, the door opened again, as the girl who was inside stepped out.
Instead of being mad, the girl was seemingly happy and excited.
???: *Smile* You didn't read the number wrong! 303, right?
Liko: *Hesitates* Uh… yeah. *To herself* Is she psychic?
As Liko questioned that, the girl in front of her introduced herself as she offered her hand.
???: *Offers handshake* Hey, I'm your roommate, Anne. Put it there!
Liko: *Repricates the handshake* And call me Liko, 'cause that's my name.
Anne slightly chuckles at Liko's remark. They shake hands. As they do, Anne looks back at her messy room and laughs.
Anne: *Laughs* I'm not great at housekeeping.
Hearing her joke, Liko let out her own laugh, as Anne continued to enthusiastically shake her hand.
Liko's Thoughts: Guess that worked out. I've never met anyone like her.
After that small interaction, Liko quickly enters the room, as Anne also starts to organize a bit more. With the matter settled, the two begin to talk as Liko unpacks a white case from her bag.
Anne: You're seriously from the Paldea region? I've never been, but I'm betting it's cool, right?
Liko: Well, I don't know, but I think that it's a nice place.
As Liko answers, Anne suddenly puts her arms on her head to simulate ears.
Anne: Hey, did you ever see a Pawmi?
Hearing the Pokémon's name, an image of it quickly appears on Liko's mind. After all, it was one that was from the Paldea region.
Liko: *Nods* Hmm. But it kind of ran away from me.
Anne: *Lies down on her bed* Jealous! I've never ever been outside of the Kanto region before, you know?
Liko: Same for me. This is my first time away from home. I never left Paldea before.
Anne: *Perks up* Huh? And you picked this school?"
Liko: *Nods* Hm. Well, I asked my mom and dad which school I should attend. And then they told me about this place—since they were both students here.
Hearing Liko's tale, Anne smiled, finding th story of her parents meeting there very interesting.
Anne: Wow. So that means that it runs in the family!
Liko: That may be true, but I still don't know what I'm doing.
Anne: *Excited* No worries, I can be your guide around Viridian City.
Hearing Anne saying she was willing to help her, Liko's expression brightened.
Liko: Really? That's so nice, Annie.
Anne: *Smiles* Just Anne is fine. And I can call you just Liko, right?
Liko: Uh, * Nods* hm. Anne then.
As the two began to walk more, Liko was extremely happy, that her roommate was very kind.
Perhaps, she could even say that the two of them will truly manage to become friends later or maybe, they already were.
Small Timeskip
After the two girls fixed up their room and finishin settling, the two exited the room and began to look around as they started to converse.
Anne was a very energetic person for Liko, something that she didn't unwelcome. Anne told Liko a lot of things about the Kanto region while Liko did her best to keep up while talking about her own.
Their talk ended up taking them close to one of the arenas of the school. There, they saw many students taking care of their own pokemon. Most of them, were students who were older than them.
Liko and Anne quickly sat down, as the two started to rest for a while, as they watched a battle between two trainers.
The two students had a Machoke and Espeon respectively, as the battle seemed to be reaching its end.
MaleTrainer1: Machoke, Dynamic Punch!
Hearing the command, the Machoke jumped in the air, before its hand glowed orange. It then rushed toward to attack Espeon.
But the other trainer was ready.
Male Trainer 2: *To Espeon* Use Reflect!"
Espeon: Es!
Espeon sets up a screen to block Machoke's punch. When it does, Machoke is sent slightly back. Giving the other trainer an opening.
MaleTrainer2: Sweet! Now use Psychic!
The Espeon's gem glows, as its eyes turn blue. Machoke is unable to move and has a pink aura surrounding him. He is tossed up and down into the ground, knocking it out.
Anne and Liko are watching, with Anne getting to her feet.
Anne: Oh! Wasn't that move just awesome?
Liko: Yeah.
Liko's Thoughts: I wonder if I'll be able to battle like that someday.
As that thought crosses her mind, Anne sat back down.
Anne: *Sits back down* Guess what? After the welcome ceremony, we're going to do the thing.
Liko: *Confuse* Do what thing?
Anne: *Smile* What thing do you think? Our partner Pokémon.
Realizing this, Liko perked up, knowing that Anne was correct.
Her gaze landed back to the two trainers who had battled, as the Machoke's trainer was using a Potion to help his Pokemon.
Seeing that interaction, the idea of her own partner engraved itself into her head.
She would recieve her own partner Pokemon.
Liko's Thoughts: That's right. Our first partner Pokémon. My heart pounds like crazy every time I think about it. But trying not to think about it is just making me think about it.
As she started to think about that, Anne's voice happened to be the distraction she needed.
Anne: Liko, so how did your school interview go?
Liko: Uh.
As soon as Anne said that, Liko thought back.
Flashback
Before she had travelled to the Kanto Region, Liko had been contacted by a teacher of the school. Whe she had, the person had introduced her to some Pokemon—Which all happened to be starters from different regions.
Of course, the meeting had been via the Rotom Phone.
Liko's Narration: When I first decided to come to this school, I had a long online interview. I talked with the teachers, and even met some Pokémon. I just hoped I'd made a good enough impression to get myself a wonderful partner. But because I don't always know how to say what I'm thinking, I was really stressed out.
Although all of the Pokemon looked at her exited and expectingly, Liko was still very nervous about it, henceforth not knowing what exactly was the result of the interview.
Flashback end
Liko: *Exasperated* I guess I was pretty nervous.
Anne: *Smile* I was, too.
As the two were talking, a Charmander suddenly appeared infront of them.
Liko: Huh?
The Charmander greets the two girls. Anne merely smile contently, wanting to pet it. However, before she could, a trainer comes out running.
Charmander: Charmander!
Female Student: Charmander, there you are. *Picks up Charmander; Bows* Sorry about that.
The two girls merely tell him it didn't bother them, and the student leaves.
Seeing their interaction, Anne merely smiles even more excited at the prospect of getting her Pokemon.
Anne: *ToLiko, smiling* This will be so great!
Liko: *Nods* Hmm.
Liko's Thoughts: My partner Pokémon. I wonder who it'll be.
As that question enters Liko's mind, a pair of footsteps suddenly appear behind them.
???: Excuse me.
Liko: Hm?
Hearing the voice, Liko and Anne both turned around. When they did, they came across another person.
He had dual colored hair, those being orange and silver and had yellow eyes. His uniform, was the most interesting part, as it was completely different from theirs. Down to the colors and even emblem. It was a white sleeve shirt with blue pants which had a strip on both knees.
In fact, neither Liko nor Anne recognize it.
Liko: A-Ah, yes?
???: *Smile* Sorry to interrupt. But I was wondering if you know where the dorms are?
Liko; The dorms? Oh, if you follow the path that way, you'll reach them.
Hearing the girls words, the boy nodded.
???: Thank you. *Begins to walk away* I'll see you both around!
With that final remark, the boy waved and smile at them, which Liko shyly replicated.
The boy then approached a bag of his, before grabbing it and walking in the direction Liko pointed at, while other student also gazed at him.
As he walked away, Liko looked at the retreating trainers back.
Liko: That uniform…It's not like, a winter uniform of ours, right?
Anne: *Shakes her head* Nope. To me, it looked like a completely different school uniform.
Liko: *Curious* Is there another school, similar to Indigo near here?
Anne: *Pondering* Hm…If I remember correctly, the only other school I think of it's Pokemon Technically but…*Crosses herarms* I don't know.
As Anne said that, Liko continued to watch the student walk away. She was definitely curious onto why another student from a seemingly different school would be there.
Timeskip
The next day, the head is presenting in front of a group of students in a large hall. Liko and Anne are sat next to each other. Most of the students, were either very nervous or looking excited, as it was today that they would receive their partner Pokemon.
Chairman: Welcome to Indigo Academy, and welcome to the exciting, wonderful world of Pokémon. A group of creatures most unusual, teeming with mystery. Pokémon make their homes in the sea, the sky, in forests and in towns. In fact, you can find them everywhere. The bonds between people and Pokémon are unique, and with your Pokémon you will discover your dreams.
After that quick presentation, the ceremony concluded and Liko and Anne were sent to their classes, which they fortunately happened to share. Once that was done, the students were given Rotom Phones, Cellular devices which served as a Pokedex, a town map, news readers, Transfering machine for Pokémon and entertainment to them. For those that already possessed a Rotom phone, they merely had given there's prior to get installed with the needed materials and pokedex.
[Next, a male teacher heads a group of students in the classroom. Liko and Anne are at the back while the students are sat individually.
Male Teacher: All right, if there are no more questions, you can restart your Rotom Phones now. Once that's done, you should be able to use your Pokédexes.
Immediately, a few of students begin to talk out loud, excited. Receiving a Pokedex, was but the first step for anyone to become a young trainer.
Liko and Anne, were off course included in this.
Liko: Oh, wow! I've finally got my own Pokédex.
Anne: That's right. And we both know what that means.
Liko's Thoughts: My partner Pokémon? I wonder who it'll be. My heart is racing.
Male Teacher: Now then, I know all of you are excited. But I have some news to share with you. An announcement if you will.
Hearing the man's words, all of the students quiet down, as they started to pay attention to the teacher.
Thought some whispered to each other.
Liko's Thoughts: *Curious* An announcement? What is it?
Male Teacher: This year, Indigo Academy had entered an exchange program in which we were chosen to partner up with a different school. *Smile* Becaue of this, there's someone who is like to introduce you all to. *Looks toward the door* Please come in.
At that moment, th door opened and much to Liko's surprised, the same student she saw yesterday walked in. He was wearing the Sam school uniform as before, in addition to having a scarf and a red glove on. When he did, he approached the teacher and bowed to him before he turned toward the rest of the class.
Male Teacher: Students, allow me to introduce you all to your classmate from Unova's Blueberry Academy. *Looks at the student* Please introduce yourself and please tell us about you.
???: *Nods* Sure. *Turns toward the students* Hello everyone. My name is Dante. I'm currently a second year at Blueberry Academy. Hm, if I had to talk about myself, I'd say I enjoy pokemon battling and eating sweets. The reason I'm currently on the exchange program, is because I wish to expand my own knowledge and understanding from different Pokemon, people and regions. *Grin* Hope we all become close. And if any of you guys ever wants to battle, don't hesitate to ask. There's rarely a moment in which I say no.
After her introduction, the student or Indigo gave him a polite clap, welcoming him into their class.
Male Teacher: Thank you, Dante. I hope you enjoy your time with us. *Looks at Everyone* Now then, before you follow his final advice, I need to warn you all; Dante here is top student from Blueberry Academy, meaning he's already an experienced trainer, likely compared to some of you. He's a second year but that's because Blueberry Academy starting period for trainers is sooner than you all. Regardless, although you all have the same age, if any of you need anything, don't hesitate to ask him. *To Dante* Please be sure to set a good example to them.
Dante: *Nods* Of course, sir. So long as they don't pick up my bad habits, they ought to alright.
As the teacher spoke to him, Dante everyone's eyes on him.
Because of their teacher's introduction, they were definitely amazed and taken back that someone like him had joined them. But based on his laid back and friendly introduction, some people were curious about how much of a challenge he was.
Indigo Student 1: *Murmur* Top of Blueberry Academy? I haven't heard of it.
Indigo Student 2: *Murmur* I heard it's a school that rivals Naranja Academy in the Paldea Region. I even heard they specialize in Double Battles.
Indigo Student 3: *Interested* Wonder what Pokemon he has.
Indigo Student 4; *Grin* Heh, I wanna battle him. To see what he's all about.
The responses of the students were like that. Varied in some degrees. However, Liko's expression was particularly surprised.
Liko's Thoughts: E-Eh? A person from school like Naranja Academy is going to be my classmate!?
As Liko looked at Dante, the latter felt her gaze.
Turning toward her, Dante managed to recognize her from yesterday and wave at her friendly with a smile, making Liko blush and shyly waved back.
After he allowed their to reaction and discussion, the Professor turned back toward the class.
Male Teacher: Thank you, Dante. I hope you enjoy your time here. Now then, with that out of the way, we will hand out your partner Pokemon. When your name is called, please come forward to receive your Pokemon.
The teacher's announcement filled with classroom with tension and excitement.
Everyone looked overly static about it, minus Dante. Since he had already received his Pokemon, he opted out of taking one.
However, looking at the students standing up, even before his name was called, reminded Dante of his own class in Blueberry Academy.
Dante's Thoughts: …So happy to form partnerships…*Looks toward the sky* How would you say, that's fake, your' highness.
Going toward his seat, Dante sat around, as some people talked to him, as some were getting called to collect their Pokemon.
After doing that for a while, nine Poké Balls are left on the tray.
Male Teacher: Anne, you're up.
Anne: Yeah! Here I am!
Anne quickly approached the table, as the teacher presented her with the Pokeballs.
Male Teacher: Go ahead.
Anne: OK.
After finding her name, Anne quickly grabbed her Pokeball and went back to her desk. The teacher continued to call upon the other students, as Anne released her partner.
When she did, an enigmatic Oshawott emerged.
Oshawott: Osha!
Anne: *Happily picks up and hugs Oshawott* It's Oshawott, so cute! Nice to meet you!
As Ann hugged her new partner, the professor still kept on calling other kids.
At the same time, Anne's Rotom Phone resounded, as it registered Oshawott as Anne's Pokemon.
Anne's Rotom Phone: Congratulations. Oshawott has been registered to your Pokédex.
As that happened, Liko perked up, as her name was finally called. Something Dante noticed.
Male Teacher: Aaand Liko?
Liko: *Standsup* Here!
While Anne and Dante watched, Liko tentatively stands up and walks to the Poké Ball tray.
She gazes down at the tray, as her hands shook a little.
Liko: Hm!
Male Teacher: Go ahead.
Liko's gaze lands forming on her pokeball—Her future partner, waiting inside. Although she attempted to remain optimistic, her fluster expression was very noticiable.
Liko's Thoughts: OK, so it's super important that I make a good first impression.
She picks up one of the Poké Balls.
Liko's Thoughts: You're going to be my partner.
Sighing to herself, Liko gains a glint in her eyes, before she returns to her desk and releases her partner…
Sprigatito is deployed from the Poké Ball. Sprigatito, with its face down, looks up at Liko and blinks at her.
Sprigatito: Meow! Meow?
Liko shows a blank look at her new Pokémon. However, that expression changes, as she begins to brighten up, with her cheeks blushing.
As that happened, Dante leaned back against his chair, as it seemed that with Liko and a few others, the rest of the Pokémon were quickly given away…
With that, most of students started to interact with their partners, as Dante watched them. Most of them were seemingly very excited.
Male Teacher: Okay, class, that's everything for today.
As the man says that, Dante begins to stand, only to suddenly stop, he notices something from his side eye.
Liko, exiting the classroom very quickly.
Confused, Dante was about to check if something happened, when the teacher called out to him.
Male Teacher: Dante? Can I have a minute?
Dante: Oh? Professor, is something wrong?
Male Teacher: *Smile* The Chairwoman was a bit curious about something. Yesterday, you arrived a bit later than expected. Did something happened?
Hearing that, Dante remember his own arrival. After talking to Liko and asking for directions, he went on the dorms and proceeded to rest, after the long day of traveling. He didn't even let his arrival known to the chairwoman before today.
Dante: Oh, yes. *Small Bow* I'm sorry, Professor. After arriving in Vermillion City, I accidentally imputed the wrong location and actually ended up going to Pokemon Technical.
Male Teacher: *Surprised* Oh? I'm so sorry that happened.
Dante: It's fine. At the end, it was a bit demanding for my flying Pokemon but we manage to make it back.
Male Teacher: *Surprised* You even flew? Did you encounter any problems? *Concern* They said there was a thunderstorm of sorts. With blue lighting and all.
Dante: …Thunderstorm? Not particularly. When I flew this way, I didn't see any.
Male Teacher: I see. *Sigh* Some students when they were coming here through the bus, saw thunderclouds. Although it was still nowhere near here, I'm still glad you weren't caught in it.
Hearing him, Dante nodded to the man. The concern was very appreciated.
Male Teacher: Well then, just wished to check on you. I hope you enjoy your time here, in Indigo Academy.
Dante: Of course, Professor. Looking forward to it.
With that final confirmation, Dante excused himself from the classroom.
Most of the class remained behind, as they were all playing/gettint to know their new pokemon. He glanced around but didn't notice anyone, so making up his mind, he decided to get to know the academy a bit more.
Compared to Blurberry Academy, it was still very different.
Dante's Thoughts: Then again. It's not an underwater school.
Walking toward the staircase, he descended the stairs only to be met with the sight of many students, all tending to their Pokemon.
A few of them gazed at him, clearly not used to seeing the Blueberry Academy uniform.
He waved at them as he made his way around them, as he ended up entering through an alleyway of sorts, which lead toward the dorms.
Dante's Thoughts: There we go. Now, next order of business. Need to find a place to train and start to check the app on my Rotom Phone for challen—
???: *Panic* AAHHHH!!
Suddenly, before he could finish his thoughts, a loud yell coming from above him alerted him. Gazing up, Dante instinctively held out his hands, as he managed to catch the falling person.
When he did, he sighed in relief. He thanked his training in the wild and constant battle against wild Pokemon while exploring the Unova Region for his reaction time.
Looking at the person, Dante was briefly surprised, seeing it was the girl he met, Liko.
Sprigatito: Meow.
Hearing the sound, he looks down at the floor, seeing Springatito merely gazing at him and Liko before beginning to walk away, as Liko seemed surprised.
Liko: *Sigh* Oh! That was a close one.
Dante: Huh…You know, you remind me of my cousin. He surprisingly once did the same thing you just did.
Liko: *Realizes* Ah. I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to—Wait, M-Mr. Dante!?
Dante: *Chuckles* Mr? I think we're around the same age. You're making me feel old.
Liko: I-I'm sorry. I-I didn't meant insult…*Looks Around* W-Wait, where's Springatito?
Dante: *Looks behind him* Isn't that her over there?
Following Dante's gaze, both him and Liko spot Springatito entering through a bush and heading deeper into the woods.
Liko: *Panic* S-Springatito! Wait for me! *Looks at Dante* I need to catch her!
Dante: Hm? *Grin* Sure, I don't mind chasing her like this.
Liko: Huh? What do you mean?
Confused for a second, Liko looked at how she was currently. After falling from the rooftop, Dante had managed to catch her in a princess carry.
A blush started to expand from her face, out of embarrassment of the situation she found herself with.
Liko: *Blush* Ahh! P-Please put me down!
Dante: *Chuckle* Ok, ok. I'm on it, Prin—Ouch!
In her panicked and embarrassed state, Liko accidentally ended up hitting Dante.
Dante: That hurt…
Liko: I-I'm sorry!
Dante: Don't worry. *Puts her down* They're more important things to do. Come on, we'll lose your cat if we take any longer.
Liko: Oh, right! W-We have to hurry!
Shaking off her embarrassment, Liko and Dante quickly began to follow Springatito, heading into the bushes.
As they did, they emerged from another side, where they found themselves by a large lake.
There was a dock in it, which allowed people to fish but the mere sight of it, plus the setting was amazing.
Liko: Wow…
Dante: This is…
Both of them were definitely surprised by the beautiful scene. The setting sun, reflecting on the water made a sight for sore eyes.
Liko sits down, the exhausting getting to her. As she does, Sprigatito sits beside her. They look at each other.
Liko: Sprigatito! *She picks up the Pokémon and hugs it* Thank goodness!
Springatito: Meow?
After hugging it, she sniffs the Pokémon's scent.
Liko: You smell so…
Sprigatito: *Annoyed* Meow!
Overwhelmed with the attention, Sprigatito scratches her face and walks away.
Liko: Hey! *Wails*Wh-Why, though?!
Seeing that, Dante couldn't help but chuckle. The sight was too adorable for him. Plus, Pokémon Video of felines had made him gained a soft spot for moments like this.
Dante: Seems to me like you're gonna have a bit of a hard time there.
Liko: Ugh…
Hearing her, Dante gently approached her, as he sat down next to her.
Dante: So this is your partner, huh?
Liko: *Sigh* Yep…This is Springatito…
Hearing the name, Dante knew it definitely wasn't wrong Unova. Meaning it likely belonged to another region.
Knowing him, made him smiled, at the idea an prospect of being able to meet and fight new Pokemon out there in the wild.
However, his expression soon changed, noticing the setting sun.
Dante: Well then. *Stands up* We should probably head back now. Unless off course, you're secretly a rebel, Uh…
Liko: O-Oh! I'm sorry. My name is Liko.
Dante: I'm Dante. It's a pleasure to meet you, Liko. *Offers her a hand* Shall we then?
They had spent a lot of time chasing after Springatito, that they needed to consider the curfew.
Liko: O-Oh, right. *Takes his hand* T-Thank you.
After helping her up, Dante's eyes landed on Liko's hand, making him instinctively hold on it, and not letting go.
Dante: Wait.
Liko: H-Huh? What it is?
Liko's Thought: Huh? What? Why doesn't Dante let go of my hand!?
The continuous contact, made Liko start to blush.
Dante: Your hand. You're hurt. Let me check,
Saying that, Liko looked down at her hand and noticed how she had gotten hurt.
Immediately, her mind went back to when she first tried to pet Springatito. It has swatted at her hand with her claws and hurt her then.
Liko: Oh, um, okay…
Hearing the reason why Dante was holding onto her hand, Liko felt a bit down, only for her to realize that sudden thought,
Liko's Thoughts: Huh? W-What's wrong with me. Why was I dissapointed…
As Liko asked herself that, Dante reached into his back and, from a small bag located there, grabbed some bandages as well as a potion.
Seeing it, Liko understood Dante wanted to treat her injury.
Liko: *Surprised* Do you always carry that with you?
Dante: *Chuckes* Yep. Carrying basic items for either you or your Pokemon is very essential. It's always better to be prepared, you know?
Liko's Thoughts: Oh, that makes sense. Seems like Dante has travelled a lot and has gotten used to this sort of thing.
However, as she thought that, a question arose in her mind.
Liko: How did you know I was hurt? It's not a big wound.
Dante: Hm? Right now. When I grabbed your hand, I noticed it. *Pondering* I thought I noticed some bruising when I caught your earlier, but this confirmed it.
Liko's Thoughts: Huh? He noticed all the way back then?
Liko felt a bit skeptical. But then again, given the fact that he confirmed how he managed to look at the wound better just now, was the final confirmation he needed to know that she had gotten hurt.
As Dante treated Liko's hand, he finally wrapped a small bandage around it.
Dante: There. Good as new.
Liko: *Blush* Thank you…
However, as Liko thought that, her gaze landed on Dante's own hands. They seemed a bit rough, yet held a delicacy to them, but also a sort of warmth.
Liko's Thoughts: Dante's hands are warm…
Once he was done, Dante put the tools he used back where he grabbed them.
Dante: There we go. As your new doctor, I would change the bandage every two days or so. Otherwise, it will begin to become irritated. Liko: Okay, I got it.
After the treatment, the two of them, along with Sprigatito, made their way back to the dorm through the bushes they
had entered. As they did, Liko would look towards Dante nervously,
before working up the nerve to speak up.
Liko: Hey, Mr. Dante...
Dante:*Curious* Hmm? Something wrong?
Liko hesitates for a split second. The idea of asking for help after he basically had done nothing but that made her think he would find her annoying.
But, making her decision, Liko looked toward Dante.
Liko: How can I become friends with Sprigatito?
At the sudden question, Dante looked surprised before looking at Springatito and then Liko.
Dante: How to become friends, huh?
Dante could quickly tell that Liko wasn't the type to act on intuition. She preferred to think things through before taking action. However, she often overthought things, which caused her to hesitate. Telling someone like Liko to act without thinking was unreasonable.
After pondering for a while, Dante smiled, coming up with good advice.
Dante: My advice? First, get to know Sprigatito, and let Sprigatito get to know you. That's the first and most important step.
Liko: Get to know Sprigatito and myself ...
At that idea, Liko looked back toward Springatito. After trying catch up to the Pokémon, she realized that was already hard. Even more so, after she had trouble understanding herself.
Liko's thoughts: That sounds difficult. I don't even understand myself
that well ...
Dante: *Grin* Difficult, right? I know, but you'll thank me later.
Dante would say with a chuckle, surprising Liko.
Liko's thoughts: Huh? Did I say that out loud?!
Dante: You don't have a good poker face. I think you're probably more transparent than you realize.
Liko: *Pouts* Transparent?
Dante would simply chuckle once again, before kneeling to
Sprigatito slowly extends his hand towards it. After a moment,
Sprigatito approached Dante, sniffing his hand, before allowing him to
pet her, completely shocking Liko.
Liko: Eh?!
Dante: Pokémon are more like humans than you think. They get feelings and make their conclusions. They also choose exactly who to trust and how much they're willing to trust that human. It's all just a simple leap, to be honest. If you truly want to make a connection with Pokémon, you simply need to make the first step. *Looks at Liko*Just take it slowly, get to know each other, and communicate.
Liko: Wow, you know so much ... I'm a little jealous ...
Dante: Well, I guess my own experience with my family has helped me develop this way. Plus, after some endeavors not that long ago, guess I've changed my approach to Pokémon.
Liko: *Curious* Your approach?
Dante: Don't worry about it. I'll tell you another time.
Liko: Ok, Mr. Dante.
Dante: *Laughs* Just Dante. And, I'll refer to you as Liko. Is that fine?
Liko: *Surprised* Y-Yeah...
As they walked back to the dorm, Dante and Liko continued to discuss
How to bond with Sprigatito and what steps she could take as a Pokémon Trainer in the future, along with Dante guiding her and pointing her in the correct direction.
Timeskip
After parting ways with Dante in front of the dormitory, Liko was writing in her diary in her room.
She made a cute, small drawing as Nidothing resounded in the background, alongside snoring from both Anne and Ashowott.
Liko's thoughts: After a pretty bumpy start, this is the beginning of my life with Sprigatito...
Liko had spent the entire day being completely overwhelmed by
Sprigatito. Feeling anxious was probably understandable.
Liko's drawing of an annoyed Sprigatito, herself with a confused face, and a Poké Ball got its final touches, as she finishes writing on her personal journal.
At the same time, Sprigatito yawns and goes to sleep, making Liko shake her head.
Liko: The future is uncertain.
As that thought crossed her mind, Liko leaned back and stretched herself.
Liko: Haah.
When she did, Liko's eyes accidentally landed on her bandaged hand and unconsciouslybegan to caress it.
At least, there had been an up to her tiresome day. In her eyes, she had ended up making two friends.
Liko: *Murmur* Dante's hands were warm...
Touching the bandage made Liko think of Dante. On the day they first met, she had been carried princess-style and had
her hand held by him. Remembering all this made Liko's face turn bright red.
She even noticed she started to draw what appeared to be Dante's head, alongside his scarf, with a small smile/grin.
Feeling herself blush, she immediately got rid of the small drawing, as she shook her head.
Liko's thoughts: So embarrassing ... I can't write about this in my diary,
no matter what ...!
Although such thoughts crossed her mind, a part of her was sure that perhaps her school life there in Indigo Academy wouldn't be as boring as she expected.