I sit in the waiting area and take out my Pokémon manual. It contains information about many Pokémon — their abilities, habits, and weaknesses. For a trainer, this knowledge is essential… unless someone plans to rely only on luck and enthusiasm.
Around the lobby, passengers rest with their Pokémon. I spot a Pidgeotto perched on its trainer's shoulder, a Raticate chewing on a berry, and even a graceful Gardevoir standing beside its partner. A group of construction workers walk by, followed by Machoke and Timburr carrying heavy crates with ease.
"Are you a Pokémon trainer? You look pretty serious reading that book."
A man stands in front of me, brown hair styled almost like a Zoroark's mane, and a bag with a green Poké Ball emblem on it. His appearance gives off a unique, somewhat wild impression.
"Not yet. But I will be soon. I'm heading to Littleroot Town to get my first Pokémon."I answer flatly. I'm not eager to make small talk with a stranger.
"Ah! Right, introductions. My name is Zack! I'm here to challenge the Dewford Gym."
He places one hand over his chest and extends the other for a handshake.
"Stephen. Nice to meet you."I hesitate for a moment, then shake his hand.
"Sorry if I shocked you. I felt familiar when I saw you studying — I used to be like you at this stage too."
"It's fine. So… you already started your journey? How many Gym Badges do you have?"
"Only one so far — I earned it from Rustboro City. The Rock-type Gym gave me a great experience. So, have you decided on your starter Pokémon yet?"
"Not yet. But I guess deciding before I reach the lab is still okay, right?"
"Of course. Choosing your first partner isn't easy. Sometimes the Pokémon's personality matters more than type advantages. For reference — this is my partner, Mudkip!"
He throws a Poké Ball. A Mudkip emerges in a flash of white light.
"Mud!"
"It's so cute! The book didn't capture how lively they really are…"I want to pet it, but hesitate, unsure if it'll be okay.
"Go ahead, Mudkip is friendly — great with humans and other Pokémon."
"Mud!"The Mudkip hops over and rubs its head against my leg. I gently pat the fin on its head, and it wiggles happily.
"Your bond with Mudkip is strong. You really raised it well."
"Yeah! Mudkip worked really hard during my Rustboro Gym battle."
"Water-type advantage, huh? I can imagine the Gym Leader's face," I joke.
Zack laughs, shaking his head.
"Type advantage helped, sure, but don't underestimate Gym Battles. The trainer's decisions matter more than anything. Overconfidence is how most trainers get stuck."
Before I can answer, a speaker echoes through the port, announcing my boat departure. I quickly pack my things.
"Well — see you around. Good luck at the Gym."
I wave and hurry toward the boarding gate.
The trip goes smoothly, and soon I arrive in Petalburg City. Unlike Dewford's quiet island life, Petalburg is noisy and bustling. Vendors shout about fresh Berries, Pokéblocks, and snacks. If you can imagine it, you can find it here.
As I walk, I notice a woman haggling with a vegetable stall owner. She has long hair parted in the middle, tied into two side ponytails.
"This price is too high! I've always bought my ingredients here — give me a special rate."
"Even if you're the Gym Leader's wife, I can't lower the price. My profits are already hurt — something strange is happening in Petalburg Woods. My transportation costs went up because of unknown Pokémon causing trouble."
He sighs, then leans forward.
"Actually, could you ask Gym Leader Norman to help solve the problem?"
I freeze when I hear the name.Seriously? I didn't expect to meet a Gym Leader's family this fast.
A nearby fan overhears and jumps in loudly.
"How dare you! Norman-sama protects this city! Don't drag him into random problems without knowing the cause!"
"Exactly! Norman-sama can't just leave the city! He represents Petalburg!"
"This is the responsibility of a Gym Leader!" the vendor snaps. "Even if the issue hasn't affected this city yet, I heard Rustboro is struggling!"
Another fan interrupts, face red with passion.
"Then tell your friend to ask their Gym Leader! Why should Norman-sama bother with trivial issues?!"