Albert hesitated when Percy, the Devon Corp. representative, extended the offer.
A child like him—even emancipated, even if recognized as extraordinary—was still just five years old. To walk into one of the most powerful corporation in the world felt surreal, almost absurd.
But hesitation lasted only a heartbeat. He had not come all this way to falter now.
With a small nod, he accepted. Albert shook the man's hand firmly, surprising Percy with his composure. Moments later, a sleek black car rolled up to the curb, and they slid inside.
As the car wound its way through the city, Albert pressed his face to the window. The landscape was mesmerizing: skyscrapers of steel and glass piercing the sky, broad avenues filled with merchants and trainers, and Pokémon seamlessly integrated into urban life.
Machop worked on the construction of new towers. Flying-type Pokémon darted between rooftops carrying messages. Street performers dazzled passersby with their partners at their side.
"There it is," Percy said with a touch of pride, watching Albert's awe. "Ironforge City. The beating heart of Rustboro Province. And in many ways, the pride of Evergreen Island itself."
Albert committed every sight to memory. This was a city that breathed ambition.
"Much of this progress," Percy continued, "is owed to Devon Corporation. We fund infrastructure, energy projects, and even public safety. If Ironforge City thrives, it is because Mr. Stone has ensured it."
Albert glanced at him. "And you work directly for him?"
Percy nodded. "I do. You'll meet him soon enough. You may also hear about his son, Steven. He's about your age—perhaps even a peer one day." Percy left it at that, letting the thought linger.
Albert said nothing, though inside, his mind sharpened. Joseph Stone… Steven Stone… Devon Corporation.
He remembered those names. In his past life, they had been part of the games and anime—a titan of industry, his son destined to be a Champion, and the corporation behind countless innovations, from Poké Balls to fossil restorations. This world was not identical to the one he knew, but the parallels were undeniable.
If Devon's role here mirrored its counterpart, then meeting Mr. Stone was no trivial opportunity. It was a step into the orbit of immense influence—and into the narrative Albert already knew had weight.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
The car finally pulled up before a towering structure of steel and glass—Devon Corporation Headquarters.
Stepping inside, the transition was immediate.
The lobby stretched high above them, floors of polished marble gleaming under chandelier light. Employees moved briskly through the space, with Pokémon shuffling throughout the building: Magnemites floating clipboards, Machokes carrying crates, and a sleek Porygon zipping between data terminals.
Percy led Albert deeper, through wide corridors humming with activity. Presenting each wing that revealed another face of Devon's empire:
Research & Development, where lab-coated scientists studied machinery fused with Pokémon energy.
Medical Applications, where doctors are testing new healing equipment and medicine.
Ecology & Breeding, where artificial habitats mimicked forests and rivers, provided data on Pokémon behavior and mating.
Defense & Engineering, where prototype Poké Balls, navigational systems, and trainer equipment were tested for field durability.
Everywhere Albert looked, he saw science and Pokémon intertwined, the cutting edge of civilization made tangible.
Employees glanced at him as they passed, some skeptical of the tiny child walking alongside Percy, others curious—even impressed.
Albert's eyes flicked from one division to the next. Just like the games…and yet, more. Real. Alive.
He knew these departments in theory, but seeing them was something else entirely. And he couldn't help but wonder: If Devon's future discoveries in his old world were still unknown here, could he guide or even accelerate them?
Finally, Percy stopped before a grand set of double doors.
He straightened his suit, then looked down at Albert with a steady expression. "This is it. Mr. Stone is waiting for you."
Albert's heart pounded once, heavy and sharp.
He had tried imagining this moment throughout the car ride and Devon Corp. tour, but actually standing here, before the office of one of the most powerful men in the world, was something else entirely.
With a steady breath, he prepared himself and knocked.