The next morning arrived quietly. The golden light of dawn slipped through the Pokémon Center's window, landing softly on Torchic and Lotad, who were still dozing near my bed.
"Wake up, you two," I said with a smile. "Today's the day — we're heading back to Dewford Town."
Torchic chirped brightly and stretched its small wings, while Lotad blinked sleepily and waddled toward my bag. After a quick breakfast, I packed up and stepped outside. The morning air was fresh and light, carrying a faint trace of sea breeze from the distant coast.
Petalburg's streets were already lively — Wingulls circling in the sky, shopkeepers calling out greetings, and the smell of baked bread drifting from the market. Dewford might be my hometown, but this would be my first time traveling there by this route — a new beginning as a real Pokémon Trainer.
At the harbor, the white ferry rocked gently beside the pier. I showed my ticket to the sailor, who nodded. "Perfect timing. The sea's calm — good day for sailing to Dewford."
I boarded and went straight to the deck. The wind was strong but refreshing, and the sunlight sparkled on the ocean's surface like scattered gems. Torchic leaned curiously over the railing, while Lotad hummed softly, gazing at the endless blue.
"Fine morning, isn't it?" a voice called from behind me.
I turned to see a middle-aged man with a thick white beard, wearing a faded blue sailor's coat. A sturdy Wingull perched confidently on his shoulder, wings spread slightly to balance against the wind.
He grinned. "Heading to Dewford, lad?"
"Yes," I said, returning his smile. "It's my hometown, but this is my first time going there from Petalburg."
"Ah, going home as a Trainer, eh? That's a special feeling." He patted his Wingull gently, the bird giving a short, cheerful cry. It was full of energy, clearly bonded with its partner after years together.
For a moment, I think of the wild Wingulls that often flew near my home's shoreline
The man leaned on the railing, gazing at the horizon. "Planning to challenge the Dewford Gym, I reckon?"
"That's right. Leader Brawly, the surfer, right?"
The man chuckled. "Brawly's got a carefree look, but don't let that fool you. When he battles, he rides the rhythm of the fight like it's the ocean itself. One wrong step, and you'll be swept away."
"I see. So, it's all about timing and movement."
"Exactly. Keep your balance, keep your calm — and you'll have a shot." He adjusted his cap. "Still, before jumping into the Gym, visit your family first. The sea can wait, but parents shouldn't."
I nodded. "I'll do that. Thank you, sir."
"Anytime, lad." He gave me a firm nod, his Wingull letting out another sharp, friendly cry that echoed over the waves.
The ferry glided steadily across the ocean. A few Wingulls followed above, dipping low before soaring into the clouds. Torchic and Lotad watched them with fascination, their reflections shimmering in the water below.
After a while, a girl about my age approached from the other side of the deck, holding a Poké Ball in one hand. Brown colour short bun hair and age considerably smaller than me. "Hey! Are you a Trainer too?"
"I am," I replied. "Still a rookie, though."
She smiled. "Same here. I'm heading to Dewford for some training. Want to have a quick battle? My Marill needs practice, and your Lotad looks like a good opponent."
I thought for a moment, then nodded. "Sure. Lotad could use some experience battling other Trainers."
We moved to an open space on the deck. Several passengers paused to watch, intrigued.
"Let's go, Marill!" she said, tossing her Poké Ball.
"Lotad, your turn!"
The two Pokémon faced each other, the salty wind blowing between them.
"Marill, Water Gun!"
"Block it with your leaf, then use Absorb!" I commanded.
Lotad braced itself, deflecting the spray before sending out a green wave of energy. Marill staggered slightly but stayed steady.
"Marill, Rollout!"
"Dodge and counter with Astonish!"
Lotad sidestepped the spinning Marill, then released a sudden cry that made Marill flinch. The opening was small but enough — Lotad fired another Absorb, drawing in energy and slowly turning the tide.
"Come on, Marill! One more Rollout!"
"Hold your ground, Lotad — finish with Absorb!"
Marill charged again, but Lotad absorbed the last of its strength, and Marill fell still, exhausted.
The girl recalled her Pokémon, smiling. "Wow! Your Lotad's really tough. That was fun!"
"Thanks," I said, patting Lotad proudly. "You were great."
She waved. "Good luck at Dewford Gym!"
"You too — I'll see you around."
As she walked away, I turned back toward the sea. The horizon shimmered, and far ahead, I could just make out the cliffs of Dewford Island.
"Almost home," I said softly. "Let's go, team — time to show them how much we've grown."
Torchic and Lotad cried in unison, and the Wingulls' calls above seemed to echo our resolve.