Caitlin was like any other aspiring Pokemon Master. She wanted to challenge the league, collect badges, battle strong opponents, and go on plenty of adventures. To capture, train, and bond with Pokemon sounded captivating for a kid like her. At first, it didn't seem so hard. In fact, she was considered quite talented in it. When she faced her first league and placed well, her future looked bright.
Until it wasn't.
She frowned, clenching her fists as she sat on her throne within the Battle Castle. The fourteen-year-old took deep breaths to calm herself lest her psychic power became sporadic.
It wasn't fair.
She knew she had an affinity for psychic-types. She knew she had a talent similar to them, but to think that it could prove to be what held her back stunned her the most. A blessing became a curse. Her future looked bleak until she was invited to be the Frontier Brain of the Battle Castle. She thought to herself that maybe this could be for the better. Sure, she might not be able to go on the same adventures as other trainers, but she could still fight and test strong challengers.
Then that failed too.
Her psychic power was, simply put, too much. In battle, the excitement would get to her and that enthusiasm would lead to her breaking everything around her. Accidentally harming one of the trainers that challenged the castle was her greatest regret. She had to employ someone else to fight for her. The mortification on her face when not even the Princess of the Battle Castle could so much as battle the opponents she was supposed to face rankled her mind.
What was her purpose here? To squander her life watching her butler, Darach, face the foes she was meant to test?
Her young heart still held onto hope that something would change. She lived in a gilded cage. It was a life of comfort, peace, and ease of mind, but it was a cage nonetheless and she could only wonder how long she could endure.
Why am I even here?
As she watched Darach defeat another challenger, she truly began questioning her existence within this castle.
To be some doll to be watched over? How dreadful.
Maybe she should leave? But where would she go? What could she do? She didn't know.
A princess trapped in a tower, waiting for a prince to save her from the cage that held her aloft.
She'd have found the story funny if it wasn't for the fact that she was living it.
XXX
She heard of him through happenstance.
He was a man given the title of royalty despite his humble background. He wasn't a true prince, not someone she would have thought much when she first laid eyes on him. Red Satoshi was a man that did not hold his titles with pride or arrogance. He was a prince in only the shallowest of definitions.
But he was one to her.
"I cannot see anything, John!" The sound of the howling crowd could be heard from the Pokemon TV. On her bed, she sat alone in her room, the sixteen-year-old Caitlin wrapped in soft pink blankets as she watched the spectacle.
The intense bellow reverberated through the screen. The challenger raised his hand and blue flames exploded upwards as Garchomp held onto Volcarona with all his might. She sucked in her breath. Unova's champion and Sinnoh's prince were silent as they waited for the result of their clash.
"What's the results, Rob!? What're the results?!"
"It's a draw, John! He drew with the champion!"
She gasped.
The crowd on the screen roared.
"Golly, Rob, just what can't he do?"
The trainer ran to his Garchomp.
"In an astonishing bout between the winner of the Pokemon World Junior Cup and the Champion of Unova, both Garchomp and Volcarona are unable to battle!" Her heart beat wildly as she watched her idol, her prince, tenderly help the dragon get back up on his feet. The proud smile on his face made her beam. The mood was infectious. "This has never been seen before on this stage, John!"
"You're right, Rob. You're absolutely right. For the first time in Pokemon World Junior Cup history, the challenger has fought the champion to a standstill!"
"Unbelievable!"
"The Prince of Celestic really is something!"
He was a prince to everyone. He was a prince to her. Stuck with a power she could hardly control in a role she didn't truly desire, watching him felt like a gateway to another life.
What if I could travel the world like that? What if I could battle strong trainers like that?
When she watched him, her prince, struggle, rise, and overcome the challenges in the many places he explored, she felt like she was there right alongside him on the journey. The screen was a portal to a world outside of her cage.
For a girl that could not battle at the risk of the lives of others, this was the best she could do. Her imagination ran wild as she dreamt of her own adventures, of her own battles, one that didn't need the aid of her butler. She banished them before they could taint her mind. Those were dangerous thoughts. She shouldn't daydream of impossibilities. She was content with her situation now.
I guess life like this isn't so bad.
At least she could watch her prince.
XXX
She tasted freedom for the first time at seventeen.
"So tell me, Red, after becoming champion...what next?" The interviewer, Malva, asked the man in question. Her prince sat alongside the reporter in a quaint studio. It was an interview, the first time for the trainer. Caitlin sat on her desk, her eyes glued to her PC screen as she watched with rapt attention. Her prince was an enigma, a mystery, and for the first time, she could learn much more about him.
"I will continue on my journey," Red answered. "Knowing me, I'd probably explore another region."
"Being a champion is not enough for you?"
"Never," he shook his head. "To become a champion is just one goal." He smiled at the camera. "There are many things I want to do, so many things I want to try. Arceus, I'd still have to become a Pokemon Master."
"That's an interesting distinction," Malva leaned forward. "Are you saying that a master is different from a champion?"
"Yes," Red nodded instantly before blinking and laughing nervously. "At least I think so. There's more to being a master than just being the best fighter in the region. Everyone's definition of a Pokemon Master is different. To others, catching every Pokemon is a Pokemon Master. To be the best fighter in the entire world might be what others think when they imagine a Pokemon Master. It could be something else entirely."
"What do you believe a Pokemon Master is then, Red?"
"To be the best."
"To...just be the best?"
"Yes." Her prince nodded. "I like to think that, regardless of what you're the best at, if you are the best at something then you're a Pokemon Master. Catch them all, discover the secrets of Pokemon, or be the number one battler or coordinator in the world, it can be anything. I think everyone's interpretation of it can be correct. A Pokemon Master isn't just one thing."
Malva pondered the thought. "That's an interesting take on it."
"I've had plenty of time to think about the subject."
"I can imagine. We're just about done with all my questions," the reporter smiled. "I do have one more for you if you don't mind. Lastly, what do you have to say to all future and present trainers out there watching you right now?"
"Ah," Red's cheeks were tinged red as he took a moment to think about it. Caitlin leaned forward to hear him. "There are so many trainers out there, I'm not sure I could say anything that would be useful for everyone.
"Humor me."
"Well, if there's anything I learned," he paused in contemplation, "it's that the journey is just as important as the destination. I know traveling around the world can be scary. For every good moment, there will be bad ones. Sometimes you feel like you can't make it out there. Your dreams look impossible to achieve." He firmly stared at the screen and for a moment, she felt like he was staring right at her. "That's not true."
Caitlin gulped.
"Don't give up." Red's gaze was warm and comforting. "Your dreams are worth fighting for."
There was a knock on the door. Darach's voice could be heard outside. "My lady, another challenger has come to test the Battle Castle."
"I will be there in a minute, Darach." She gently closed her PC and got up. Psychic power softly touched her hair, banishing all stray strands into a nice wavy curl. Cursed as her upbringing was, it came with some boons. She straightened her dress and came out.
Her butler bowed. "Good day, my lady."
"Good day to you as well, Darach." She took a step forward and the butler followed. "How many challengers today?"
"Three of them, I hear. Volkner, Flint, and Cynthia."
She glanced at him with intrigue. "Cynthia? We've faced her two years ago, have we not?" She remembered that day clearly. Her prince was there, tagging along with Sinnoh's princess. Caitlin didn't think she'd ever meet her idol, stuck in the castle as she was. The ability to move to new regions was a Frontier Brain benefit she was glad to have. It made her stay somewhat bearable.
"We have," Darach nodded. "It appears she wasn't expecting us in this region's Battle Frontier."
"It will be nice to see her again," Caitlin grinned. She always admired the Princess of Sinnoh for being what she could not.
Darach, on the other hand, shivered. "I cannot say the same, unfortunately."
"She didn't traumatize you that badly."
"I, respectfully, disagree."
A soft laugh left her mouth. She did not know it yet, but as she repeated the words of her prince in her head, the seeds of independence began growing from within. She had given up her dreams, she had been fine with the hand life dealt her, and she thought that the life of a battler was not for her.
Did she want that?
No.
She was called talented by many in the past.
It would be a shame if I didn't at least try again.
With gentle psychic thought, she slowly lifted one of her empty pokeballs in the air. Darach raised a brow but didn't comment. It cracked from the pressure. Her psychic power was so immense that even a soft touch could be damaging. She took a deep breath.
One step at a time.
XXX
At eighteen, she moved to Unova.
She spent a year bettering herself. Tempering her psychic power took a lot of control and even then, it wasn't always reliable.
But she grew good enough to leave without the aid of her butler. Darach's encouragement helped strengthen her. He could handle the Battle Castle while she was away. To head to a new region without anyone with her was a scary thought, but she prepared for this. She could fight, not a lot, but she could. She was a step closer to reaching her dreams with some more training.
Then possibly the Pokemon League.
"Excuse me, can you perhaps tell me where the Pokemon Center is?" She raised her hand towards a man only to be ignored as the bustling of the city suddenly became apparent to her. She turned to a woman walking by. "Excuse me, can you perhaps tell m-or not, I suppose. That's fine too." The loud chaos made her words deaf to some ears. She spotted another and tried to touch their shoulder. "Ma'am..."
The woman vanished into the ocean of city-goers. Castelia City, for all its lights and beauty, was a place with a specific flow, and any attempt to go against its current was met with resistance.
The flood of human bodies surged and she was pushed by the wave.
"Ah!" She fell and winced.
Her psychic powers lurched forward to protect her. She clamped them down. It would do no good if she started acting violently in such a populated and dense place. She closed her eyes to control it. It would only harm her dreams.
She just got here! She wouldn't let that happen on her watch.
Caitlin felt someone offer her a hand and she took it on instinct. Like a lifeline, the person pulled her back up and away from the rushing citizens. She released a breath in relief. She used that moment of peace to force down her supernatural wrath. "Thank you."
"It's no problem."
That voice. She choked on her spit. The psychic opened her eyes instantly.
Warm amber eyes and black hair met her vision.
"My p-prince?!"
"Caitlin, right?" Red blinked at her odd declaration before offering a smile. The iconic Pikachu on his shoulder waved. "It's nice meeting you again."
She couldn't answer him back. She hadn't seen him in person for years and from sheer coincidence, she met him in Unova of all places. What luck! He still looked as dashing as he was back then. Even more so! "A-Ah." She looked away.
"Are you okay?"
Caitlin took a moment to collect herself. "Yes, just a bit out of sorts." The psychic took a deep breath. "I was asking for directions to the Pokemon Center. I am not used to such sprawling cities."
"I can understand that," the trainer said, "I was about to head to the Pokemon Center as well. Why don't we walk there together?"
The words spilled out automatically. Was she too forward? "I would love to, my prince."
"Please, just call me Red." His amused tone and befuddled expression made it clear he wasn't slighted.
"Yes, my p-Red." She corrected herself at his pointed look.
"Last I saw you were four years ago," Red began his trek to the center. She followed suit. "How have you been?"
"Better, much better." Caitlin smiled. "I decided to take on the Pokemon League again. Being a Frontier Brain had started becoming monotonous and I wanted to explore the world. It was nerve-wracking, naturally, but I've never felt more liberated."
He perked up at that. "That's great! With your experience in the Battle Frontier, I'm sure you'll do well on your journey. Frontier Brains are world-class trainers, after all."
"I was more honorary than real," she reminded with some shame. "My butler was the real Frontier Brain. I recently started getting back into it, but I am nowhere near the strength I would like to be." She had so much to learn and a lot to do to even catch up to the levels of people like him. "I would be lucky to even place Top 8, really. With you in the running, I know I would be defeated."
"You should try for the number one spot, regardless," Red said. "Never go into a battle thinking you would lose."
The firmness in his voice was a lot more attractive in person. She flushed, "Of course. I was just speaking highly of your capabilities. Your achievements need not be said. I was conveying the monumental effort to beat you if we cross one another in the conference."
"I appreciate the vote of confidence," he grinned, "but I am not unstoppable. Do me the favor of going all out if we ever have a chance to fight."
Her eyes became starry at his honorable intentions. Red truly acted like the prince so many linked him to even if he wasn't aware of it. His humility and respect for his opponents were commendable. As expected of the Prince of Celestic! They reached the Pokemon Center and she took this opportunity to heal and recuperate her resting Pokemon.
"I have to make a call," Red said. "I'll be right back."
"Of course," she nodded, "please take your time. I will be with my Pokemon."
At his departure, she called forth her ace and closest companion. Gothitelle, the psychic-type that was with her ever since the start, took form. Caitlin took comfort in her presence.
"I cannot believe it, Gothitelle, he's here in Unova with us." She breathed as she spoke with her ace. The Pokemon was happy for her. Was she fangirling just a tad? Perhaps. It just couldn't be helped. She looked up to him and everything he represented.
He was everything she wanted to be.
It felt wrong to not give him her favor.
Gothitelle smiled and nodded in approval. She understood Caitlin's feelings better than any other. She was thankful to have someone like that.
"To think I might be able to see him battle in person. Oh, it would be wonderful to see it." Her heart thundered at the thought. "Would he be champion this year, I wonder? I think he could, Gothitelle. Imagine being present at the crowning of a new champion." History would be made.
Her Pokemon clapped before crossing her arms firmly. It need not be said that her Pokemon would not back down despite their newest obstacle.
"Of course, I dare not go against his words. If I do clash with my prince, it would be a disservice to you and him if I hold back." Caitlin's words reassured her ace. "It is not my intent to disrespect the league's purpose. I will fight with victory in mind. Do not fret over it."
Gothitelle nodded. She looked like she knew but simply wanted Caitlin to reaffirm her beliefs. She would have been offended if not for the fact the psychic-type's intentions were clear to her just as hers were to the psychic. They wanted what was best for the other.
She stepped into Unova to start a new life.
She wasn't going to waste it!
"I'm back," Red said and his eyes perked up at the sight of Caitlin's Pokemon. "A Gothitelle!"
"Ah, my pr-Red!" She swerved to see him. "I see you have finished with your endeavors."
He studied the psychic-type before turning to the former Frontier Brain. "I have. I was just checking if a rival of mine reached Sinnoh."
"Anyone I know?"
"Cynthia, actually. You've fought her a while back."
"Ah, yes. The princess." Caitlin nodded. "I have had the fortune of getting to know her. Prickly, but well-intentioned. She supported you during the Lumiose Conference. The entire town was quite enthusiastic at your victory yet she put them all to shame."
"Did she now?" Despite expecting joy at the thought of his friend cheering for him, her prince instead held a complicated expression. She glanced at Gothitelle who shrugged. "I am grateful."
How odd of her prince.
Caitlin cleared her throat. "May I inquire where you are going next?" Maybe they had the same destination. She secretly hoped for it to be the case.
Red smiled. "I am going to challenge the gym here before moving on to the next town. I have a few people I want to visit as well while I'm in Unova."
Hope blossomed in her chest. "Then mayhaps I could join you while our destinations hold common ground. It would both be efficient and helpful." She looked down. "Despite preparing beforehand, my inexperience is getting the better of me." Her first steps in Unova almost made her act upon her psychic capabilities. The number of lives she risked today was unacceptable.
Red hummed before glancing at Pikachu. It amazed her how easily they could connect with but a look. "I don't mind. It would be great to have a traveling companion while we're here."
"Marvelous!" She sighed in relief. "I promise you that I will do my best to not be a burden." The chance to travel with someone of his caliber was a massive boon. Oh, the things she could learn.
"I'm sure you'll do just fine," Red laughed. "I'll show you the ropes, but there's no doubt in my mind that you'll get the hang of it."
"Thank you, m-Red."
"You're doing much better already!"
Caitlin flushed.
XXX
Life was just an unorthodox game of chance.
At least Grimsley thought so.
He fought and played as if his journey was a game. It was on purpose. The fallen noble was aware of what he was. The world was just a board for people to gamble, but experience led him to play it safe. He balanced his life on a thread. If he wasn't careful, everything he worked for could fall like a house of cards.
He was always careful, thankfully. Grimsley couldn't afford to be anything else. His growth and strength as a trainer of Unova had always been through the scheming methods he employed. Risks always had to be made in the pursuit of power. It was the plans one would have if everything around them crumbled that would dictate their true worth.
A Pokemon Master was someone that could make something from the cards they were dealt with.
"I'm so sorry, my prince!"
"It's Red, Caitlin, and it's fine. I should have expected this."
Fate handed him a bad hand today it seemed.
Grimsley stared at the grassy field of the open wilderness with a dull stare. He was heading to the next gym for his entrance into this year's conference when he heard a noise nearby. In front of him were two trainers. They looked to be traveling together. From the situation, it was a culinary incident. A Pikachu was throwing up behind a bush.
And Red - oh my was it odd to see his face again - looked to be slightly ill.
"I promise you, my prince, I-I am much better at cooking than what this may seem."
Red gave a nauseous smile. "I'm sure you are." Gothitelle offered him some water. He took it gratefully. "Let me do the cooking for now though."
Caitlin looked ashamed. Grimsley snorted. His noise alerted the woman of his presence and a glare was sent his way. A faint pink glow surrounded the lady and he instinctively stepped back.
CRACK.
His amusement was cut short when a literal crater formed beneath the lady. His skin crawled at the sight. What in Zekrom's name was that? Caitlin blinked in surprise before clutching her chest and taking deep breaths. The glow around her subsided and all that was left was a sour look at his entrance.
"Grimsley," Red recognized him from their battle in the Pokemon World Junior Cup. Despite feeling ill, the trainer smiled.
He returned it with a wry smirk of his own. "Red. You look like you've seen better days."
"Nothing a good rest won't fix," he clutched his stomach before offering his hand. He took it. "You definitely look well. Still trying to usurp Alder?"
"If I could get to him. Marshal's a pain in that regard. He won last year's conference. I got second." Stupid fighting-types. He always liked to consider himself the more sophisticated and tactical of the two, but Marshal's no brute despite looking like one. Grimsley sighed. "None has ever come close to beating the old man. He's gotten even stronger if you could believe it."
"I'm not surprised," Red said before motioning to the lady. "This is Caitlin. Caitlin meet Grimsley. He's an acquaintance of mine from my previous journey here."
"Acquaintance is an over-exaggeration," he offered a hand to the psychic. "I've barely heard of him until he won the same tournament I was in. Barely even talked as well, but he's gotten quite famous after his battle with old Alder so his face has been recognizable."
Caitlin took his hand and shook. Grimsley had to reassess how strong he physically was. Such a frail woman had an iron grip. Physically enhanced psychic powers? Or maybe he was just weak. "It's nice to meet you."
"So what exactly happened here?" He smirked when the woman crossed her arms with a huff.
Red rolled his eyes. "You're keen enough to figure it out."
"A culinary disaster of the highest order." His observation led to some nervous laughter. Pikachu was still throwing up in that bush. Just how bad was this?
Caitlin looked ready to strangle him, but whatever discipline she had kept her under control. "I am just not used to cooking in the wilderness."
"That's a bad sign for any trainer."
"I'll be helping her learn how," Red intervened before the psychic could explode. His soft touch on her arm quelled the woman, "and it wasn't that bad. She just needed a bit more guidance."
"My butler taught me a few things before I was allowed to leave," Caitlin mumbled to herself. "He said it was good. It didn't cross my mind that he might have said that to spare my feelings." She sighed, "He spoils me too much."
Grimsley glanced at the ill Pikachu. The mouse's trainer held an impressive poker face. Grimsley smirked. "Of course. I didn't mean to come across as insulting." He kind of did, but he wasn't an idiot to completely provoke a psychic with enough power to put a dent in the ground. "Though it is advisable to learn it as soon as possible. It's always good to see new trainers, but some things are better taught early."
"I'm not new," Caitlin clicked her tongue. "I was once part of the Battle Frontier. They are comparable to the Elite Four in strength."
He chortled. "Could have fooled me."
Caitlin and Gothitelle narrowed their eyes. "Then let this lady teach this fool a lesson."
"Ha?"
"A Pokemon battle," she crossed her arms. "I'll put this mongrel in his place."
Tempting. "No thank you."
Caitlin grit her teeth. "And why not?"
"With how you struggle to control your powers, the chances of injuring myself from a pointless fight is too high," Grimsley waved her off. "Maybe if the odds were in my favor, I'd say yes, but I'd rather refuse with all my bones intact than accept with a chance of a shattered skull."
"You..."
Red held her back, his stare quieting the soured woman before turning back to Grimsley. "We understand that."
Grimsley nodded. "Thank you."
"So it wouldn't be a problem if I challenge you then?" Red smiled. Caitlin gasped and her brooding was replaced with excitement. "I have no psychic powers to speak of and it would be great to fight you again after all these years."
Oh.
Maybe he risked too much with the cards he was given this time.
XXX
"'Small yet hopeful, the Pokemon gazed at his trainer with hesitation against their final opponent. With one final cry, they both took their first step into their destiny...' How about that one?" Shauntal grinned as she jotted it down in her book. She stepped in front of a befuddled Caitlin with excitement. "It was inspired by the tales of Red and Pikachu, you know? I was drawn in by their deep bond."
"O-Oh really?" Caitlin stepped back. "That sounds promising enough."
"Of course, I would love to meet the real deal so my work can be better written," Shauntal continued, "Research is important, you know? The writing has to make sense in the context of the setting and story alongside the gripping narrative that it wants to tell. It's a beautiful song and dance. When I saw you two I could not help but approach. My deepest apologies for the unexpected appearance."
"No, that's fine," Red laughed. The three sat at a table in an outdoor cafe in Striaton City. Shauntal favored this place for its nice atmosphere. Writing always seemed better when written in a place that suited her. "It was a welcome surprise."
The ghost-type specialist beamed at his words before opening up her book again. "'On his face held infinite compassion that warred with a sense of duty. Unflinching in his path, the martyr prepared to sacrifice everything to bring about the salvation of the world...' Ah! Sorry," Shauntal noticed the stares of both trainers. "Whenever I get inspired, I would write it down so I don't forget it. I understand it can be a problem for some people."
Red cracked a small smile. For some reason, Shauntal felt a little bad for him. "That's fine. I can see that it's something you enjoy. I have no problem with it."
"I would love to see more of your work," Caitlin intervened and her eyes glinted with fascination. "Reading has been a common pastime of mine in the last few years. Do you perchance have anything you can recommend to me?"
"Oh, of course!" The ghost-type specialist perked up. Not a lot of her rivals had any interest in her storytelling so it always surprised her when someone wanted to talk about literature with her. It was quite a shame. She always believed a Pokemon Master was someone that was well-read and knowledgeable. "There's actually this one that I had the luck of finding in Striaton's library. I can show it to you later today if you want."
"It would be my pleasure!"
"Do you have any favorite books? Any particular authors that you favor?"
"Folklore and fairytales," Caitlin nodded. "It may sound childish of me, but I adore a happily ever after."
"That's not childish at all!"
The ghost-type specialist jumped in enthusiasm as she regaled the psychic with tales of things she had read or would recommend. Caitlin looked absorbed by her words and time would pass by as the two connected through their literary interests. The prim and proper lady was a surprise to Shauntal, but it was a welcome one.
So absorbed the two were in their conversation that they failed to notice the approaching woman.
"I adore a lot of different genres, myself," Shauntal said, "It's amazing to read newer and older works to see the evolution of modern writing. Some things stay the same, and some things change. I try to incorporate the techniques of old masters and use them for myself. There's no such thing as perfection. You could get always do better."
"Personally, I've always been fond of the classics," the psychic admitted, "the tales of knights, princesses, and princes never get old! Though I have taken to liking some other romances that Darach perused for my leisure. I cannot wait to read your recommendations."
"I promise they will not disappoint!"
"Um, excuse me."
Shauntal paused at the appearance of a woman with long dark hair and a lab coat. What was this?
"Oh! My apologies for not noticing you sooner," Caitlin said with an embarrassed smile, "do you need something?"
"Yes," the woman shyly nodded, though her focus was entirely on the man. "I am Fennel, a doctor that specializes in the dreams of humans and Pokemon. My deepest apologies if this comes off as sudden. I saw you while walking from work, and I thought this would be a good opportunity to finally show my gratitude to you in person while I still have the chance."
Red stared at her for a moment before widening in realization. "I simply did what anyone else would do in that situation, Dr. Fennel."
"Gratitude?" Caitlin looked at Red who coughed at the sudden attention.
"He saved me and my precious Munna's life from Team Plasma a few years ago," Fennel explained. There was a small smile on the doctor's face. "I was too exhausted to properly see him, but I can still remember the sound of lightning when Pikachu appeared. He left before I could thank him properly, but Alder found me later on. I've been meaning to reach you, but you're a very hard person to contact."
Shauntal's mind started racing as she began jotting that down. "'Electricity filled the air as thunder and lightning united under the Pokemon's might. Crushing force tested their opponents' defenses in a song of stormy judgment. Justice reached a crescendo...' Oh, I like that."
Red sighed at the woman's antics before focusing on Fennel. "I'm surprised you recognized me after all these years. I kind of figured you didn't get a good look since you were close to passing out."
"I actually recognized you while reading the papers," the doctor rummaged through her pockets and took something out. The three leaned forward to see it. Oh my! Caitlin gasped and Shauntal grinned as her fingers inched towards her pencil.
Red took one look at it before groaning, completely and utterly defeated.
"I cannot believe it," Caitlin muttered to herself. "Am I too late?"
Fennel watched them with concern. "Are you two okay?"
XXX
Cynthia knew something was up in her hometown when the villagers started congratulating her. That wasn't uncommon whenever she attempted the league, but the conference hadn't even started yet.
She loved her home. She was proud of being born and raised here. Cynthia was friendly with all of the residents of her town. However, Celestic wasn't exactly the most excitable of places. It got livelier as she grew, but the words said to her as she passed by familiar faces puzzled her.
"Good job!"
"Earlier than I expected. Congratulations, Cynthia!"
"I bet Carolina's pleased, eh Cynthia?"
"Took you long enough!"
It was concerning.
When she reached her home, the surrealness was magnified. Her parents were happy to see her and so was her grandmother. That was to be expected. She didn't expect what came after, however.
"Welcome back home, dear!" Carolina hugged her granddaughter with much more enthusiasm than normal. Cynthia was curious as to why. She was only halfway done with her journey. "Come inside. I assume Red isn't with you again?" Her grandmother's exasperation at her rival was light and teasing.
"You know how he is, grandma," Cynthia rolled her eyes. Her ancestor would always ask and her answer was always the same.
"Of course. I am not surprised, but you should bring him home eventually," Carolina tittered. "He needs to meet the family. We'd welcome him with open arms. All of Celestic Town, if not all of Sinnoh, would welcome him, really."
"I'll convince him."
"Good! I won't approve of a son-in-law that avoids us," Carolina crossed her arms. "Honestly, that man. He has nothing to be afraid of."
Cynthia nodded before she completely processed her words.
...
Her eyes narrowed and focused on the amused professor. "I don't follow."
"Too soon?" Carolina tilted her head. "I suppose you two began dating recently so the thought hasn't been brought up."
She slowly opened her mouth before closing it in confusion. Dating? Son-in-law? Suspicion started blossoming in her mind. Her thoughts ran back to everyone outside. A light pink tinged her cheeks. "Grandma, we're not dating."
The amusement and teasing expression on the professor's face changed into one of confusion. "You two aren't?"
"No," she shook her head. She bit her lip. "I did confess to him, but he hasn't given me an answer yet." She narrowed her eyes. "How did you conclude that we were dating though? Now that I think about it, how did everyone in the town come up with that conclusion as well?"
Carolina laughed nervously before pulling out a paper in her bag. Cynthia swiftly took it and read the title. All color drained from her face.
FROM RIVALS TO LOVERS! SINNOH'S RISING STARS KISS UNDER THE ALOLAN SUN!
What.
Her mouth opened in utter surprise. Before her eyes was a clear picture of the two embracing in the airport and an article gossiping about their possible relationship. Suddenly, everything started making sense.
Volkner and Flint's knowing looks. Lucian's nod of respect. Aaron's applause. Diantha mentioned that she still hadn't given up earlier this week. At first, she thought she was talking about their rivalry. It might be something else completely! Add onto that the citizens' excitement to her grandmother's teasing, and everything clicked.
Carolina studied her expression before grinning. "So when's the wedding?"
"Grandma!"
XXX
They were about to leave Striaton City after obtaining their third badge. During that time, Caitlin continued learning and studying under her prince.
Red's concern for her well-being at their inevitable separation made him open and precise with his tutelage. His teaching style was different. It was clear he borrowed from his own experiences of what a traveler would need to survive. She wasn't quite used to the life that trainers like Red endured and prospered in, but she hoped that she would eventually.
Teaching her the culinary arts, basic survival techniques, and common traveling habits was all fine and well. It was vastly different from her old life, but she would master it in time.
Controlling her psychic powers, on the other hand, was something she thought he wouldn't offer wisdom in. To her surprise, he had some points to share with her.
"So it comes out when your emotions get out of control?"
"Yes, m-Red," Caitlin nodded. "This usually translates to combat. I couldn't battle properly for some years due to my powers going out of control when I lose or if I get too excited." It ached her to share her weaknesses with a man she looked up to so highly, but she would not deny her prince's aid when offered.
"You've gotten better though."
"I have," she nodded, "I've had help, of course." She couldn't have done it without the support of her butler and her Pokemon. The training she had last year was a major boon to her confidence. "Nonetheless, it is still a problem. I can train and battle in situations of little stakes, especially if my opponent isn't an aggravation, but I fear that if I attempt a conference, it might be too much for me."
"So you just need something to keep you calm," Red hummed. "A crutch until you can do it on your own."
"That would help, yes."
"You've met Fennel," Red mused. "The doctor in Striaton City. Have you heard of the dream mist she studies?"
She shook her head. "It isn't something I am aware of, unfortunately."
"How about the Pokemon, Musharna?"
"That, I do know of," the lady nodded. "It is a Pokemon that emanates dreams and nightmares, yes?" There were some around Striaton City and considering her interest in psychics, she was tempted to add one to her team. Where was he going with this?
"They produce dream mist. It can induce a sedative effect on those around them," he said. "Normally, it's strong enough to send humans and Pokemon to sleep, but I wonder if your abnormally strong psychic strength is enough to reduce its effects to something that would only calm you instead."
It clicked.
"T-That is certainly a possibility." She tentatively considered the phenomenon. Psychic-types were quite infamous for their mind-altering abilities. Hypno was a famous species named just for that fact. The Pokemon she carried with her had taught her methods to control it, but the way Munna and Musharna utilized their psychic powers were innately unique.
Maybe. Just maybe...
Caitlin shook her head. She didn't want to hope too carelessly.
Red noticed her doubts and continued, "Of course, I don't want to suggest a solution that I am not knowledgeable of. Let's ask Fennel for her expertise on the matter. She knows more about the benefits and risks than any other."
"Yes, that's...I think that would be a good idea," Caitlin breathed. Her brief impression of the doctor was a kind yet intelligent one. The idea of catching the Unova Pokemon wasn't an adverse plan either. "Having a Munna of my own wouldn't be so bad." The Dreamyard had a plethora of them when she last checked and they looked absolutely adorable.
A Pokemon that could help control her temper until she could do it herself sounded too good to be true. When she said so to her prince, he laughed good-naturedly. "There's a lot about Pokemon we have yet to understand. Is it truly unbelievable to find one that could help with your particular predicament?"
Perhaps not. She smiled lightly, "If you say it like that, I suppose you are right." Professors, doctors, and researchers were people that worked on figuring out the mysteries of Pokemon and using what they learned to help others in need. The applications of this dream mist excited her. She stared at her idol and teacher with determination. "My prince, I implore that we turn back and speak to the good doctor at once!"
"It's Red," he sighed in small exasperation before nodding with a smile, "and you do not need to ask for my permission. I'll take you there. If we can lighten your burden by even a little bit, I will consider it a victory."
She returned his smile with a beam of her own. The genuine hope inside her gave the psychic the motivation and energy to rush back with her head held high. She'd be able to face the league. She could wipe that stupid smirk off of Grimsley's face too! The feeling of no longer having to worry about injuring the people around her was a freeing thought.
Red grinned as he followed close behind. To think he was thinking of ways to improve her life even when she did not ask him to made her feel all sorts of complicated emotions. Chivalrous and heroic were the least she could describe him.
She barged into the lab. "Good doctor, I have come for enlightenment!"
"Eh?" Fennel stared, stupefied.
If this worked, she had another debt to pay to her prince charming.
XXX
As an apprentice of Alder, Marshal knew much about the reigning champion. He learned from him, took his wisdom, and forged his unique style from his teachings. It was his dream to take everything he learned and surpass his master. It would be a monumental effort. Alder was someone that rarely took it easy and when it came to the title of champion, he held nothing back.
That was fine for him.
A Pokemon Master would face everything thrown at them and exceed it.
He knew the champion's true strength. Alder was a nigh unbeatable challenge. The fighter would have thought him unstoppable. His team, especially his Volcarona, had continued to grow, rising into higher heights that he could barely catch up to.
But any doubt he had in himself would be banished just as instantly as they were brought up.
He saw the mighty bug-type bleed once from a foreigner and his Garchomp. It proved to him that it could be beaten, that it could fall, and that was enough for him.
So Marshal trained. His might could overthrow the Elite Four. His strength in both mind and body was only rivaled by his peers. Every day he grew closer to reaching his goal. It looked so far away, but in a journey of a thousand steps, taking even a single one was progress to be savored.
He would meet that foreigner again on his way to his sixth badge.
BAM!
The sound of conflict attracted him. His head turned towards a spare battlefield by the Pokemon Center in Mistralton City. He couldn't help but stare. Watching others was another form of learning. The fighter was proficient in visually analyzing and adapting the things he saw into his own style. It was why Alder helped when they first met. He learned quickly.
A woman, lady-like and refined in style and tactics, engaged with a man of familiar black hair and amber eyes. Both had a partner Pokemon beside them, a Munna and Pikachu respectively. He was not surprised by the latter.
Reuniculus clashed with Scrafty. Psychic powers altered the battlefield. The Scrafty kicked any boulders coming its way. Deceptive strength pummeled the onslaught before getting close. Intellectual manipulation tested itself against underhanded tactics. Heads clashed. Literally.
CRACK!
Despite the mental capacity Reuniculus had over the Scrafty, the dark-type's skull was tougher. The Hoodlum Pokemon jumped over a thrown rock before slamming his head down with a devastating Head Smash.
Now that's using your head!
The psychic dropped down from the strike and both trainers rushed to check on their exhausted warriors.
"Curses," the woman sighed as she gently picked up her Pokemon. A potion came out of her bag and the Reuniculus expressed comfort in her care. "Dark-types are an annoyance."
"A lot of them don't fight fair," Red chuckled before spraying a potion on his Pokemon's bruised forehead. The Scrafty crossed its arms in pride at its accomplishments. "Many of them would exploit any advantage they can get. You are either strong enough to be above it or stoop to their level to combat it."
"That's not so chivalrous."
"There's a time and place for chivalry," he smiled. "Have patience and find a solution. You're growing leaps and bounds since we first started. Once we finish working on this one weakness, you'll be a trainer to be reckoned with."
"R-Right." The woman looked away, petting the floating Munna beside her with a small smile. "Of course, I cannot have done it without your tutelage."
"You'd have reached this level without me."
"Nonsense," she shook her head, "and even if so, it wouldn't have been a smooth experience. The lessons you've imparted will be with me even when we depart. It is priceless. Once I am strong enough, I promise that I will repay this debt."
"There is no debt to pay."
"What kind of lady would I be if I do not reward good service?" She had a look that screamed stubbornness. "As your student, it would be the greatest shame if I don't use what you've taught me to give something back."
What a wonderful sentiment.
The traveling warrior clapped. "Your student speaks the truth." He only observed the end of the battle, but it was clear that both trainers grew from it. He was glad! Watching others grow felt just as uplifting as seeing himself progress.
"Marshal," he recognized him.
"Red Satoshi." He towered over the man. The fighting-type specialist offered his hand. The foreigner took it and shook it firmly before letting go. "It has been quite a while since I've last seen you. You've gotten wiser!" As expected of the fighter that could draw with Alder. No trainer that could compete with his mentor would stagnate after that accomplishment. They would strive for more!
"And you've gotten even more muscular." They laughed.
"So you're a teacher now?"
"In the loosest definition of the word," Red shook his head. "I don't think I'd make a good teacher." Marshal raised a brow. Judging from the lady's expression behind him, she vehemently disagreed. "I'm not above offering some help here and there though."
"Sounds like the kind of teaching style Alder uses," he grinned, "and I don't think your student agrees with you."
"Caitlin's a fast learner," Red said, "It's more the fact that she's a model student than through my own efforts."
"My prince is incorrect," the lady narrowed her eyes. "He has been able to help me in ways that go beyond the responsibilities of a mentor. Exceptional is taking his efforts lightly."
"Caitlin..."
"Humility is a virtue, but being obsequious is not," Caitlin crossed her arms.
He sighed in exasperation before turning to Marshal. "How is Alder anyway?"
"For an aging champion, he still has the energy of a man in his prime." Experience had only made the traveler more dangerous. "He'd meet you personally if he knew you were here, but a champion's duty is never finished." Despite having the reputation of a wanderer that passed on his duties to others, Unova's mightiest trainer was still diligently watching his region when it counted.
"I wouldn't want to intrude on his time," Red shook his head, "but I appreciate the thought."
"He'd thank you, honestly," Marshal grinned, "Alder would rather talk with young and aspiring trainers instead of dealing with all the paperwork that comes with his job." The fighting-type specialist shuddered when he remembered his mentor passing those duties to him. He understood well why the champion disliked it so much. "Besides that, I do have a request."
"I'm listening."
"I was moved by the words and battle I witnessed." It reminded him of his time with Alder. He gave a small bow. "Let me train alongside you two for today."
Red blinked. "Oh?"
"I believe learning from others is the best way to grow," his grin grew, "Understanding others' styles and taking what is useful for myself is my path to growing stronger. There is something to be said for the passing down of wisdom. I can share some of my own as well." Extra training before taking on the flying-type gym also didn't hurt.
Red looked impressed. People always assumed him to be completely reliant on brute strength. Ha! Perhaps he did once upon a time, but Alder whipped him to shape long ago. "I don't mind. Caitlin could use more training partners as well." He perked up. "I'll make us some lunch while we're at it."
"Thank you," he nodded to the departing Red before offering his hand to the lady. "Nice to meet you, miss. Guess we'll be working together."
She took it and his eyes widened at her strength. For a frail-looking woman, she got a mean grip! "It's a pleasure." She let go and he breathed.
"I saw you struggling with that Scrafty a while ago," Marshal continued. "I have one myself. Why don't I help you learn how to counter them?"
She looked intrigued by the offer. "I wouldn't mind at all. My prince always said I needed more experience in battle."
"Prince?"
She completely ignored his questioning look. "You're much more tolerable than Grimsley at least."
"Ah, you met my rival."
The distasteful expression she held summed up Marshal's thoughts. "A ruffian dressed as a noble is worth just as much as a brick painted gold. No value at all. Once I learn to overcome my weaknesses, I will find an opportunity to put him in his place."
"He isn't that bad," he defended lightly.
"He plays a dangerous game. If he provoked me any further than he did, he might have broken a few bones."
Marshal blinked. "Excuse me?"
XXX
Caitlin took a deep breath.
Her Sigilyph crashed down. Pandemonium came from above. The Avianoid Pokemon got up to avoid the swooping Noivern. The screeching noise that exploded outward from the dragon made her wince. Her Pokemon was in a daze, her mind scrambled from the onslaught.
BOOM!
The battlefield rattled. Her heart hammered in her chest and psychic power began responding to the chaos that surrounded them. On instinct, her hands reached out to her Musharna, taking comfort in her presence. She took a deep breath.
Focus!
"Sigilyph, Thunder Wave!" There was a flash before a body slammed down. Her spirit soared and she was about to call out another command, but her prince, her annoying but oh-so-competitive prince was quick to respond.
"Boomburst the ground."
Dust covered the battlefield, the shockwave sending her Pokemon tumbling back. In the bat Pokemon's element, it swooped in with a Shadow Claw under the cover of darkness. Her Sigilyph took the hit straight on before blowing it all away with a Tailwind. The dragon attempted a Dragon Dance, only for the beast to wince as electricity coursed through his body.
Chance!
"Icy Wind," she felt a strong gust on her skin and an idea popped in her head, "on the Tailwind!"
Her psychic understood her intentions, chilling the air nigh instantly. The frigid breeze accelerated under the turbulent gale before slamming onto the dragon with merciless force. She could not give ground, she could not show mercy when facing his Pokemon.
If she gave an ounce of compassion, she would lose for sure!
BOOM!
Dragon Pulse slammed into Sigilyph. The beast flew to meet hers. Sigilyph rode the Tailwind, sailing through the air with unrivaled speed. Ferocious wyvern chased ancient guardian. The paralyzed Noivern struggled to catch up. Cold air touched dragon scale. Her plan was working! She could not believ-
"Don't resist," Red commanded. "Use the current, Noivern."
FWOOSH.
The bat dragon was behind her Sigilyph and Caitlin choked when she realized that Noivern took advantage of her Tailwind to compensate for his paralysis.
"Now."
Boomburst exploded outward. Clangoring mayhem interrupted the psychic-type's flight before her foe swooped in. Her heart lurched at the charging dragon. Shadow Claw crashed into archaic biology. Sigilyph responded with even colder winds. An aerial duel commenced between them. Every strike from the wyvern was precise and calculated, but he was getting slower.
Exhaustion was settling in. She needed to take advantage of it. Noivern rushed in for another assault. The psychic-type created distance between them. She held her breath when electricity surged through his body, sending it tumbling down. Yes!
Sigilyph caught him in a psychic hold, slamming him down to the ground. Caitlin took a moment to calm herself.
Noivern slowly rose before slumping in defeat.
She got excited again.
The psychic squealed before rushing to her Sigilyph for a crushing hug. She could hear her prince and Pikachu clap nearby.
"An excellent bout," Red smiled, taking a potion out to heal the exhausted Noivern. "I think you're ready."
Ah, that was right. They were preparing in Opelucid City for the dragon-type gym leader. Drayden's Pokemon looked so intimidating that she desired some training before going in. "You think so?"
"I know so," he patted his dragon. "You're getting better and you're calmer under pressure. I only saw you use your psychic abilities once and you were quick to rein it in." His smile grew an approving glint. "There's not much I can teach you that you won't be able to figure out on your own."
"Truly?" She glanced at the nodding Sigilyph and Musharna. Caitlin laughed. She beamed at her amused mentor and idol before bowing. "If my prince says so then perhaps that is the truth." She stared at her Pokemon, a determined look shared between them. "The eighth gym badge is ours!"
"Nuh-uh!"
She blinked and turned to stare at the source of the youthful voice. A small girl with wild violet hair and dark skin stared at them. Immature confidence radiated off of her. Red and Pikachu froze. Caitlin tilted her head. "And why do you think so?"
The girl placed both hands on her hips. The surety of her posture was a sight to behold for such a youthful girl. "Because Drayden's the best Dragon Master in Unova!"
"So I've heard," Caitlin said before pointing at the recovering Noivern beside her. "That is why I have been fighting them in preparation for his gym."
"Yeah," the child stared at the Kalos dragon with awe before shaking her head, "but Drayden's are definitely stronger than his!"
"Is that right?" Instead of being offended at her words, Red looked amused. "I'll take your word for it, miss..?"
"I'm Iris," she smiled, "and I am going to be the best Dragon Master in the whole world."
"Lofty goal," he grinned, "but I think you'll need a dragon first."
The kid flushed and mumbled, "I haven't started my Pokemon journey yet, but there is no doubt I am getting one eventually. I'm from the Village of Dragons, y'know! It's in the name."
"Fascinating."
"And I have tons of battling experience already!" She pouted. "I have this super strong Excadrill and I've fought plenty of trainers."
"An Excadrill as a partner Pokemon this young," Caitlin hummed to herself. That really was impressive. She'd fought one against Clay and they were a force to be reckoned with. They were sturdy and reliable. She could see how the child was winning handily with a Pokemon like that.
Red smiled, "May we see Excadrill?"
"Uh," Iris's confidence dimmed at his question, "I don't think that's a good idea."
The psychic raised a brow. "Why not?"
"He doesn't listen to me anymore," the child looked away in shame. For the first time since they met, the Unova native showed a hint of vulnerability in that young exterior. "Excadrill ignores all my commands and keeps to himself. Nothing I say works."
Red nodded. "I see." He knelt in front of her. Caitlin watched in fascination as her mentor let Pikachu join her side. The girl gasped and took the opportunity to pet the mouse. "Do you know why?"
"Not really." She pondered in thought. "It all started when I lost to Drayden. His Haxorus must be pretty strong to scare him that much."
"I don't think an Excadrill could scare that easily, even if their opponent is a dragon." He chuckled. "Have you asked him why he won't obey you? Sometimes the best way to figure it out is to just talk with them."
Iris sighed. "I tried talking to him, but he won't listen."
"But did you listen to him?"
"Huh?" She blinked.
"Pokemon are living and breathing things," Red said, "They have thoughts and emotions too."
"I know that!"
"I'm sure you do," he chuckled, "then you should also know that conversing with your Pokemon is a two-way process and even though there is a language barrier between us and them, it is our duty as their trainer to understand them just as much as they try to understand us. They aren't weapons." He reached out and rubbed Iris's head affectionately. To Caitlin's shock, the girl accepted it. "They are our friends."
Iris stared at her mentor with awe before looking down in thought. She grumbled, "Yeah, I guess you're right."
Red laughed and stood up. "I understand if it's a lot to take in." A knowing smile blossomed on his face. "You'll figure it out as you get older. After all, you're still just a kid."
Iris squawked at his teasing. "I'll have you know I'm almost ten years old!"
"So a kid."
"Why you..."
Caitlin giggled.
They talked some more and the psychic couldn't help but observe just how easily he handled the spritely yet confident little girl. He brought out all sorts of dragons he had with him. Caitlin almost wanted to pinch the girl's cheeks when Iris gazed at his Goodra, Noivern, and Garchomp with delight. He was good with children. As expected of him. When Drayden came and called for the girl, Caitlin joined his company once again, admiring a side she had never seen from her prince.
"That was nice of you," the psychic commented.
"She's a good girl."
"Quite confident in herself."
"She had reason to be." He took a few containers of food out of his bag and offered them to his dragons. "She's strong for her age. A budding talent that had a little bump in the road. I just wanted to give her a nudge in the right direction."
Caitlin smiled. He did the same with her. "You tend to do that."
"I cannot help myself," Red didn't look apologetic at all, regardless of his words. "For good or for ill."
"Helping others is never a bad thing." He taught her that.
He looked surprised to see her repeat it before laughing. "That's right."
They continued training after their brief encounter with the growing Dragon Master. Her prince adopted a thoughtful look after meeting the girl, but still offered any advice he could give. Iris thought that she would not emerge victorious over the gym leader. How adorable. The girl clearly didn't know her mentor! She would prove that his teachings were true. The eighth gym badge was hers for the taking.