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Sunshine Gym.
The moment Indeedee stepped through the gym doors, an unconventional "interview" quietly commenced.
"Mew?"
Sensing a unique presence, Mew immediately turned its head toward the entrance where Indeedee stood.
"Sylveon!"
After breakfast, Sylveon—who had been lounging on the sofa like a salted fish—followed suit. It struggled to poke half its head out from behind the sofa cushions, curiously observing the newcomer.
The cloned Pokémon gathered around Shelgon, building blocks with their silent companion, also turned their attention toward the entrance.
Indeedee's arrival instantly captured the attention of nearly every Pokémon in the gym.
"Indee…"
Facing this large family, Indeedee visibly tensed up, her steps growing stiff and hesitant.
Noticing her reaction, Aiden quickly approached and led her to the living room.
"By the way," Aiden began casually, "weren't you working as a server at Seafood Fresco before? Why did you suddenly quit?"
"I even ordered takeout from them last night—the delivery staff had already been replaced by a Machoke lady. Did something happen?"
Though he'd already accepted Indeedee as a new gym member, Aiden was genuinely curious about her situation.
Generally speaking, Pokémon that adapted well to human society were highly sought after.
Take this Indeedee, for example—they could serve as butlers managing daily household tasks, were versatile in various roles, especially skilled in cooking and emotion sensing, and even made excellent companion Pokémon.
More importantly, since most human products held little appeal to them, Pokémon typically didn't require salaries—just room and board to stay content.
They were practically ideal employees.
Therefore, bosses who hired Pokémon rarely terminated their contracts voluntarily.
This was why Aiden found it puzzling.
What reason could have led Seafood Fresco's owner to heartlessly fire this cute Indeedee?
Though her gentle demeanor suggested she wouldn't cause trouble, Aiden still felt compelled to ask for clarity.
"Dee…"
Mentioning this topic made Indeedee's face flush red. She instinctively lowered her head, her small hands nervously clasped at her abdomen, fidgeting with her fluffy fur.
After a long pause, she finally mustered courage under Aiden's encouraging gaze and spoke softly.
Aiden turned to Mewtwo, who had subtly raised an eyebrow.
As Sunshine Gym's ace translator, Mewtwo paused briefly after hearing Indeedee's words, then calmly relayed:
"It says its previous boss fired her because she ate too much."
"…"
Aiden's brow twitched.
That's it?
He'd expected she'd done something terrible—not such a trivial reason…
Pokémon didn't even need salaries. Denying them proper meals was downright inhumane. The bosses of the Pokémon world seemed increasingly human-like in their greed.
Keep this up, and President Geeta will definitely roast you in garlic sauce!
Still, relieved by this somewhat absurd explanation, Aiden relaxed.
An Indeedee who loved eating would surely get along well with many of the gym's Pokémon. Integration shouldn't be difficult.
"I understand. So then…"
Aiden paused dramatically, teasing the nervous Indeedee until she looked up at him with hopeful eyes before smiling warmly.
"From now on, you're part of this family. Please take care of us~"
"Indeedee!"
With Aiden's approval, Indeedee's eyes sparkled brightly, and her drooping horns seemed to lift slightly.
As emotion-sensitive Pokémon, their horn-like appendages were vital organs—reportedly storing emotional energy they absorbed. Positive feelings brought them physical and mental joy.
This was why they were among the earliest Pokémon to adapt to human society.
Most humans treated them kindly, providing abundant positive emotions that compensated for their poor survival skills in the wild.
Perhaps this was also why they were only found in regions like Galar and Paldea, where Pokémon were more widely accepted.
"Mew~"
Seeing another addition to Sunshine Gym, Mew immediately floated over, leaning against Aiden's shoulder while warmly gazing at Indeedee. It clapped its tiny paws rhythmically, initiating a welcoming ceremony for the new family member.
Following Mew's lead, Aiden, Mewtwo, and the cloned Pokémon gathered around Indeedee, clapping in unison.
"Vee!"
Sylveon huffed in feigned indifference but betrayed its true feelings by trotting over with cat-like steps, its four ribbons rustling crisply in the air.
Only Shelgon—trapped in its hard shell, unable to clap with its stubby limbs—froze in place, its eyes flashing with unmistakable disappointment.
Why can't I do anything…
I hate this form so much—can't I just evolve right now?!
Unfortunately, unable to make a sound, its silent frustration went unnoticed by humans and Pokémon alike. It could only sulk alone in the corner.
Weak, pitiful, helpless.
...
After formally registering Indeedee into a Poké Ball, Aiden and Indeedee had officially established an employment contract.
In the Pokémon world, Poké Balls served complex purposes.
Rather than essential tools for capturing Pokémon, they were more like methods for humans to confirm a Pokémon's willingness to partner with them.
After all, before Poké Balls existed, many humans and Pokémon had already formed bonds, becoming the first generation of trainers.
Thus, modern Poké Balls not only allowed trainers to carry partners conveniently but also served as proof of a Pokémon's recognition of its trainer.
If a Pokémon refused to be captured, even at low health, a mere Poké Ball couldn't restrain its innate power—unless special Poké Balls crafted by villainous organizations were used.
Recalling Indeedee from its Poké Ball, Aiden smiled at its visibly delighted face.
Truly, Pokémon were simple, pure beings…
As he thought this, lines of text suddenly appeared before his eyes.
[Indeedee (Female)]
[Type: Psychic/Normal]
[Ability: Psychic Surge]
[Moves: Ally Switch, Play Nice, Helping Hand, Follow Me, Healing Wish, Trick Room, Copycat, Light Screen, Reflect...]
[Affection: 100]
[Very gentle nature.]
[February 28: Met in Cabo Poco, Paldea.]
[Dislikes spicy flavors.]
[Excellent appetite.]
The unexpected system Pokédex function made Aiden raise an eyebrow.
Psychic Surge—a hidden ability!
Like the four weather conditions, the Pokémon world also had four terrain effects that greatly influenced battles.
Though many Pokémon could learn terrain-setting moves, those with innate terrain abilities were extremely rare.
Originally introduced in Sun/Moon as counterparts to Alola's guardian deities, these abilities were later granted to a few lucky Pokémon in Sword/Shield.
For example, Indeedee—corresponding to Tapu Lele—shared the same Psychic Surge ability as legendary Pokémon, instantly creating Psychic Terrain upon entering battle.
This terrain boosted the power of Psychic-type moves used by Pokémon standing on it while nullifying priority move effects—a highly useful counter to speed-based strategies.
Of course, among these released Pokémon, the most famous is undoubtedly Rillaboom, who completely overshadowed the presence of the original Legendary Pokémon, Tapu Koko.
Then there was Miraidon—currently showing almost no combat prowess, excelling only at eating.
If it regained its full strength, its Hadron Engine ability would function similarly to Electric Surge, instantly spreading Electric Terrain across the battlefield upon entry, further boosting Miraidon's Special Attack within the field.
Such compound abilities were standard for legendary Pokémon.
Beyond its hidden ability, Indeedee's move set also impressed Aiden.
No offensive moves—just a complete set of support techniques.
A born perfect supporter!
However…
Logically speaking, his earlier action shouldn't have counted as "capturing" Indeedee, right?
Yet the complete system interface—even showing Affection—suggested the system recognized her as his partner…
Did the system judge solely based on whether a Pokémon was placed in a Poké Ball?
But that couldn't be right—he'd obtained Miraidon's Poké Ball long ago yet never triggered its Pokédex data…
No, Miraidon was probably just an exception.
Aiden silently pondered this before shelving the question.
Whatever—Indeedee had already joined the family. Why overthink it? Just treat her like the others.
...
On her first day, Aiden planned to familiarize Indeedee with the work environment before giving her two days off to rest. She'd officially start next week.
The gym itself required little introduction—she'd already met all the Pokémon. Aiden simply gave her a tour, ensuring she understood the layout, before taking her outside.
"As an official gym, our primary duty is battling rookie trainers who come to challenge us, testing their practical skills."
Aiden pointed toward the battlefield not far from the gym.
Hearing this, Indeedee froze in place.
B-battle?
From birth till now, she'd never once engaged in a Pokémon battle…
Her previous roles had always been serving, assisting in kitchens, or temporary housekeeping. Battling was completely foreign territory. When she heard her job required frequent battling, she instinctively wanted to retreat.
But quickly, Indeedee rallied herself, her expression hardening with resolve.
"Dee…"
No—I finally found a kind person willing to take me in. I can't give up now!
If I lose this job too, I'll starve on the streets… forever deprived of fragrant rice bowls!
Faced with survival versus battling, Indeedee unhesitatingly chose to fight.
"Don't worry," Aiden noticed her sacrificial expression and quickly added with a smile, "This part of the work already has enough capable Pokémon. We don't need extra hands."
"Your job at Sunshine Gym will be assisting me in preparing meals for the other Pokémon and handling daily cleaning around the gym. Is that alright?"
"Indeedee!"
Relieved she wouldn't need to battle, Indeedee nodded vigorously, her tense heart finally relaxing.
Though, to be honest—seeing as I'm clearly not cut out for battles, avoiding them is probably for the best…
This kind person assigned me work perfectly suited to my skills. It seems I can stay here after all.
Indeedee sighed in relief, then silently resolved as Aiden turned away:
This time, I absolutely mustn't reveal my true appetite. I'll stop at seven-tenths full… no, five-tenths! I must force myself to stop!
Otherwise, I'll probably end up like my last boss—unable to afford my "salary"…
Clenching her tiny fists, she mentally reinforced this promise, calming down after a few seconds before jogging to catch up with Aiden.
On the other side of the battlefield lay Ogerpon's cultivated fields, specifically growing the five Herba Mysticas that granted the gym spice freedom.
"These are incredibly useful seasonings," Aiden explained while Ogerpon—using its Wellspring's water storage function to irrigate crops—spotted them and hurried over, mask held high.
"Oger~"
As usual, Ogerpon greeted its trainer with starry-eyed enthusiasm before noticing the unfamiliar Pokémon beside him.
"This is Indeedee—she's also joining Sunshine Gym now."
"I hope you two get along well~"
Aiden smiled, stroking Ogerpon's head.
"Oger?"
Tilting its head, Ogerpon carefully observed Indeedee before beaming again.
Seems like a good kid.
As a Pokémon that feared loneliness, it naturally welcomed the gym growing livelier.
The two nearly human-like Pokémon shook hands politely, instantly getting acquainted.
Aiden nodded subtly while scanning the surroundings.
Sunshine Gym wasn't large—he'd almost finished the tour.
Except for Lucario, who was training outdoors, the other Pokémon had already met Indeedee. Nothing seemed missed…
Just then, Aiden suddenly remembered something and turned sharply.
On the lawn outside the gym, Miraidon—its metallic body glinting—lay sideways on the grass, chest rising and falling rhythmically.
Apparently, its terrible sleeping posture had rolled it out of its nest.
Aiden's eye twitched.
This guy… better not introduce him just yet.
He'd naturally wake at mealtime. Seriously—it felt like all its futuristic tech was invested in biological clocks and sense of smell!
...
With Indeedee's joining adding a lively touch, noon arrived quickly.
Unfamiliar with her cooking skills, Aiden entrusted the entire lunch preparation to her.
He'd stand behind her, judging her culinary abilities.
Well… in theory.
In reality, from the moment Indeedee began cooking, Aiden was already sweating bullets.
Her knife skills were flawless—ingredients diced into perfect cubes within seconds;
Her seasoning ratios were impeccable—a simple blend of five flavors created an aroma so divine it lifted spirits instantly;
The dish she prepared left Aiden utterly stunned.
Seafood Fresco's signature dishes—made with Klawf sticks, fried fish fillets, and assorted berries—boasting a 99% approval rating!
Every move Indeedee made mirrored Aiden's idealized vision of himself at the stove.
Sadly, he had to admit his own skills paled in comparison.
So… did I just hire a professional chef for my home?
Aiden silently grumbled to himself.
Was this good or bad?
Good news: I'll probably learn countless cooking techniques and recipes from her.
Bad news: After tasting her dishes, will I even be allowed back in the kitchen?
Not only in flavor—her efficiency also utterly crushed his own…
Had he—the gym leader—just been optimized out of his own kitchen?
Aiden's forehead beaded with sweat.
How did I end up having such a terrifying dream?
"Indeedee!"
Indeedee's confused voice snapped Aiden back to reality.
In the brief moment he'd been lost in thought, she'd already prepared several portions of food. Rich, fragrant steam filled the room.
"You keep working—I'll bring these out."
Aiden sighed, rubbing his temples.
Somehow, I'm the assistant now…
But whatever.
On the bright side—while Indeedee stays at Sunshine Gym, I'll eventually learn her secret recipes and become a master chef!
Win!
Aiden skillfully carried the plates, using his elbow to push open the kitchen door. The aroma poured out instantly.
Outside, Miraidon—who'd been napping obliviously on the lawn—suddenly sensed something. Its eyes snapped open as it bolted upright, racing into the gym and claiming the first seat before Aiden even entered the hall.
"Your nose must have some high-tech sensors—how is it sharper than Arcanine's?"
Aiden set down the plates, teasing. Miraidon shot him a glare.
With Indeedee and Aiden's combined efforts, a large table filled with seafood and Moomoo Pudding soon appeared.
"Umm…"
Nervously seated across from Aiden, Indeedee resisted her growling stomach, waiting for him to taste her cooking first.
Though she'd followed the same recipe as at Seafood Fresco, adding Aiden's recommended Herba Mysticas made the outcome uncertain.
If it failed, this job might be over too…
Under her anxious gaze, Aiden scooped a forkful of macaroni into his mouth.
A rich, complex umami explosion bloomed on his tongue—he widened his eyes in shock.
"A-amazing!"
At his praise, the other Pokémon at the table immediately devoured their portions.
Relieved, Indeedee finally exhaled.
Her cooking had been accepted—she belonged here in this warm, welcoming Sunshine Gym.
Indeedee were deeply attuned to emotions—they could feel the happiness radiating from every Pokémon here.
Compared to her previous workplaces, this place felt like… home.
No wonder it's called Sunshine Gym—it warms the heart like sunlight…
For some reason, Indeedee felt moved, lowering her head.
Just then, Aiden noticed her subtle reaction and deliberately adopted a stern tone:
"Indeedee, there's one small issue I need to address…"
"Indee?!"
Indeedee snapped her head up, panic flashing across her face.
"Since you're already seated… why aren't you eating with everyone else?"
Seeing his plan work—her attention fully captured—Aiden relaxed his tone.
"Indeedee… (///ω///)"
Indeedee froze, then tears welled in her eyes—deeply touched.
Under Aiden's encouraging gaze, she blinked rapidly before finally picking up her bowl.
Since the Gym Leader insisted… I won't hold back!
As she joined the meal, Aiden and most of the gym's Pokémon stopped eating, staring dumbfounded at Indeedee's eating frenzy.
If Miraidon's dining style could be described as vengeance eating, this new member's approach was…
Cataclysmic!
Immersed in the feast, Indeedee's hands moved faster than the eye could follow. She finished entire portions in mouthfuls, her bowl stack soon forming a miniature mountain.
Even Miraidon beside her stopped eating, staring in shock at this small humanoid Pokémon.
Her stomach… must connect to a fourth-dimensional space?!
Even Aiden was stunned by her whirlwind devouring speed.
He finally understood—
Sometimes, it really wasn't the boss's fault. The problem was indeed Indeedee's appetite.
At this eating pace, did her daily earnings even cover her food costs?
Good thing Sunshine Gym was financially stable—otherwise, they might not afford this bottomless-pit Indeedee either.
As expected, everyone who enters Sunshine Gym is a Hidden Talent!
While inwardly complaining, Aiden also grew curious about her monstrous appetite.
Logically—even in the Pokémon world—energy should be conserved.
If she consumed so much food, how was that energy being converted?
For now, he'd have to discover her secrets through daily life.
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