After Professor Hiruzen left them to explore, the four of them stood in the garage staring at the Mobile Home with varying expressions. Kasumi looked ready to explode with excitement. Kiyomi examined the vehicle with analytical interest. Miyuki appeared thoughtful, processing the weight of the gift. Sasuke just felt overwhelmed.
"There has to be something else," Kiyomi said suddenly. "Our mothers wouldn't just hand us the keys without some kind of message or instruction. That's not their style."
"You're right." Miyuki moved toward the RV's entrance. "They planned everything else so meticulously. There must be more."
They filed back inside. The interior still felt impossible, too much space for the exterior dimensions, like stepping into a different reality where physics operated on negotiable terms. Victini immediately claimed the living room couch, apparently deciding this was now its territory.
"Check the kitchen," Kasumi suggested. "If they left something, it'd be somewhere obvious but meaningful."
Sasuke moved to the kitchen area. The counters were clean and bare except for basic supplies Hiruzen had mentioned, dish soap, paper towels, a bowl of fresh fruit. But then he noticed a tablet device sitting on the small dining table, propped against a decorative stand. A note attached to it read: "Play me - From your mothers."
"Found it," he called.
The others gathered around as Sasuke picked up the tablet and pressed the power button. The screen immediately lit up with a video file queued and ready. He set it back on the stand so all four of them could see clearly, then pressed play.
The video opened on four women sitting together on what looked like a comfortable couch in someone's living room. Sasuke recognized his mother immediately, Mikoto Uchiha in her typical composed posture, crimson eyes fixed on the camera with the intensity she brought to everything. Beside her sat three other women who could only be the mothers of his companions.
Hanako Senju had silver hair like her daughter Miyuki, though cut shorter and styled differently. Her golden eyes held the same analytical quality, but softened with warmth as she smiled at the camera. She wore professional attire that suggested she'd come from work at her medical practice.
Kaori Uzumaki practically vibrated with energy even while sitting still. Her crimson hair was styled in a long braid, and her violet eyes sparkled with the same enthusiasm Kasumi demonstrated constantly. She'd dressed casually in comfortable clothes and kept adjusting her position like she couldn't quite contain her excitement.
Yuki Kurama sat on Mikoto's other side, her long auburn hair falling past her shoulders in waves. Her golden eyes held sharp intelligence, and she maintained the same cool, confident posture Kiyomi had inherited. Her outfit was stylish and practical, expensive but not ostentatious.
"Hello, our precious children," Mikoto began. Her voice carried through the tablet's speakers clearly. "If you're watching this, you've received your Trainer Licenses and discovered the Mobile Home we arranged for you. Congratulations on officially beginning your journeys."
"We're so proud of all of you," Hanako added. "You've grown into remarkable young people, and we're honored to support you as you pursue your dreams."
"This gift represents more than just transportation," Yuki continued. "Thirty years ago, the four of us traveled together without the resources you'll have. We camped in tents, dealt with terrible weather, and sometimes went hungry because we'd miscalculated our supply needs. We wanted to give you something better, a genuine home on the road."
Kaori leaned forward enthusiastically. "But don't think we're making your journey too easy! You still have to face gym leaders and Contest judges and all the challenges that come with traveling. We just want you to face them from a position of comfort and safety instead of constant struggle."
Beside Sasuke, Kasumi had one hand pressed to her mouth. Her eyes were already shining with unshed tears.
"Sasuke," Mikoto said, looking directly at the camera. "My son. I know you've spent three years preparing for this journey, building strength and catching powerful Pokemon. But remember, strength without connection is just isolation with a title. Let these three wonderful young women become your genuine companions, not just allies of convenience. Open your heart the way you've opened your skills."
Sasuke felt his throat tighten. His mother rarely spoke so directly about emotional matters.
"Miyuki," Hanako continued. "My brilliant daughter. You've always worried about not measuring up to your grandmother's reputation or meeting family expectations. But you've already exceeded every standard that matters. Your research contributions, your medical skills, your gentle heart, these make you extraordinary. Trust in your own worth."
Miyuki's breath caught. She blinked rapidly, clearly fighting tears.
"Kasumi!" Kaori practically shouted, making everyone jump slightly. "My enthusiastic, wonderful, absolutely ridiculous daughter!" She was grinning widely. "You're going to be an amazing Coordinator. You're going to prove to everyone that Contests require real skill and dedication. And you're going to do it while being completely, authentically yourself. Don't let anyone dim your light."
Kasumi let out a sound between a laugh and a sob.
"Kiyomi," Yuki said with measured warmth. "My curious, brilliant girl. You've chosen a difficult path, establishing a new academic field requires both courage and persistence. But you have the mind and determination to succeed. Trust your research, trust your instincts, and never apologize for being smarter than people who doubt you."
Kiyomi's typical cool expression had cracked. She wiped at her eyes quickly, trying to maintain composure.
"Now," Mikoto continued. "We've prepared some instructions for the Mobile Home's operation. Hanako will explain the medical facilities. Kaori will discuss the kitchen and food storage. Yuki will cover the research equipment we've installed. And I'll handle the general vehicle operation."
The video shifted to the four mothers standing outside a Mobile Home identical to the one Sasuke and his companions occupied. What followed was a detailed tutorial, Mikoto explaining driving controls and spatial compression mechanics with her characteristic thoroughness. Hanako demonstrating the Pokemon care station and medical supply organization. Kaori enthusiastically showing off the kitchen's features and the berry storage refrigeration system. Yuki outlining the research equipment available and how to maintain delicate instruments during travel.
But interspersed with the practical information were stories.
"This one time," Kaori said while showing the kitchen organization, "Mikoto tried to cook rice without water. Just rice in the pot on direct heat. We came back from training to find the entire campsite filled with smoke and Mikoto standing there with her Charizard trying to put out a pot fire."
"That was one time," Mikoto's voice protested from off-camera. "And I'd been concussed earlier that day from a Gym battle. Context matters."
"Hanako once tried to treat a poisoned Oddish using human medicine," Yuki added. "She'd forgotten that Pokemon and human physiologies are completely different. The poor Oddish turned bright purple for three days."
"I was sixteen and panicking!" Hanako defended herself, laughing. "And it recovered perfectly fine!"
"I got lost in Viridian Forest for an entire day," Yuki admitted while showing the navigation system. "Wandered in circles for six hours before the others found me sitting under a tree reading a book I'd brought, completely unconcerned about being lost."
"And I once challenged a Gym Leader while my Pokemon were all asleep from Sing," Kaori said. "Didn't realize my Jigglypuff had affected my entire team along with the wild Pokemon we'd been training against. I sent out my Wartortle and it immediately toppled over snoring."
The stories continued, funny, embarrassing, nostalgic moments from their journey that had clearly become treasured memories. Sasuke watched his mother laugh freely in a way he rarely saw, watched her interact with her friends with genuine warmth and affection. This was Mikoto before the responsibilities of being a Gym Leader and clan matriarch had settled on her shoulders. This was just a young woman on an adventure with her best friends.
Eventually, the tutorial concluded and the four mothers returned to the couch. Their expressions had grown more serious.
"We need to discuss something important," Mikoto said. "The world you're traveling into is more dangerous than the one we knew. Organizations exist now that exploit Pokemon for profit and power. You've likely already heard about some of these threats."
"Be careful," Hanako urged. "We've given you resources and a safe home base, but we can't protect you from everything. Watch out for each other. Trust each other. And if you encounter something beyond your capabilities, don't hesitate to call for help."
"Courage doesn't mean facing every threat alone," Yuki added. "It means knowing when to stand your ground and when to seek assistance. We want you to be brave, not reckless."
"And most importantly," Kaori said, her usual enthusiasm tempered with genuine emotion. "Remember that this journey is about more than badges and ribbons and research publications. It's about becoming the people you're meant to be. It's about forming bonds that will sustain you through life's challenges. It's about learning that strength comes in many forms."
The four mothers stood together, linking arms.
"We love you," they said in unison. "All of you. You're our precious children, and we're so proud of the people you've become. Now go make your own story. Create your own legend. And come home safely when you're ready."
Mikoto smiled, a genuine, warm expression that Sasuke had seen maybe a handful of times in his entire life. "Sasuke, take care of your companions. Miyuki, trust yourself. Kasumi, shine as brightly as you can. Kiyomi, challenge everything. And all of you, make us proud. Not through your accomplishments, but through the bonds you form and the people you become."
The video ended with the four mothers waving at the camera, frozen in that final frame before the screen went dark.
Silence filled the Mobile Home.
"That was..." Miyuki's voice broke. She tried again. "That was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."
"They planned this months ago," Kiyomi said, wiping her eyes. "Recorded that message, arranged the Mobile Home purchase, coordinated with Professor Hiruzen. All of it designed to show us they believe in us."
"My mom called me ridiculous," Kasumi said through tears, but she was smiling. "She's right. I am ridiculous. But she said it like it's a good thing."
"Your mother sees your enthusiasm as strength," Miyuki told her. "Because it is."
Victini had abandoned the couch and now moved between them, chirping softly and nuzzling against each person in turn. The little Pokemon could sense their emotional state and was offering comfort the only way it knew how.
Sasuke pulled out his phone and immediately called his mother. She answered on the second ring.
"Sasuke. Did you watch the video?"
"Yes." His voice came out rougher than intended. "Thank you. All of you. This is... it's too much. The Mobile Home, the message, everything."
"It's exactly what you need and what you've earned." Mikoto's voice carried warmth even through the phone speaker. "You've worked hard for three years. Let us support you as you begin the next phase."
"I will. I'll take care of them. All of them."
"I know you will. That's why we trusted you with this responsibility." A pause. "Are you crying?"
"Maybe."
"Good. That means the message worked." She sounded pleased. "I need to go, I have a Gym challenge in twenty minutes. But Sasuke? I meant what I said in the video. Open your heart. These three girls are special. Don't let fear of vulnerability keep you isolated."
"I'll try."
"That's all I ask. Love you, my son."
"Love you too, Mother."
The call ended. Sasuke looked at his companions and found all three of them on their own phone calls with their respective mothers. Miyuki spoke quietly in one corner, nodding occasionally and wiping at her eyes. Kasumi paced while talking, her voice alternating between laughter and tears. Kiyomi leaned against the kitchen counter, her typically cool demeanor completely abandoned as she had what sounded like a heartfelt conversation about research ethics that somehow turned emotional.
Fifteen minutes passed before everyone concluded their calls. They gravitated back together in the living room area, sitting in a circle with their Pokemon gathered around them. Victini nestled in Sasuke's lap. Shaymin floated near Miyuki's shoulder. Gardevoir stood behind Kasumi like a protective guardian. Ninetales curled at Kiyomi's feet.
"So," Kiyomi said finally. "Our mothers are incredible."
"Agreed," Miyuki said. "I knew they were accomplished trainers, but seeing them like that, young and happy and just... human. It was beautiful."
"They want us to have what they had," Kasumi said. "The friendship and bonds and adventures. Not just the accomplishments."
"Then that's what we'll give them," Sasuke replied. He looked at each of his companions in turn. "We're officially starting this journey tomorrow. Gym badges to collect. Contest Ribbons to earn. Ancient ruins to investigate. Research to conduct. And all of it together."
"Together," the three girls echoed.
"But first," Kiyomi said, standing up and moving toward the stairs. "I need to actually claim my room and unpack. Processing heavy emotions is exhausting and I need to organize something to feel centered again."
"I'll unpack too," Miyuki agreed. "Though I might cry more while doing it. Fair warning to anyone who hears sobbing from the second floor."
"I'm going to test every kitchen appliance," Kasumi declared. "And probably make comfort food. Who wants cookies?"
"Everyone wants cookies," Kiyomi called from halfway up the stairs.
They dispersed to their respective tasks. Sasuke remained in the living room for a moment, Victini still in his lap, processing everything. The video had revealed layers to his mother he'd never fully seen before. Mikoto the Gym Leader was formidable and composed. Mikoto the friend laughing with her companions was someone entirely different, more open, more vulnerable, more human.
Professor Hiruzen appeared at the Mobile Home's entrance, knocking on the open door. "May I come in?"
"Of course, Professor."
The elderly man entered and settled onto the couch beside Sasuke. "I take it you found and watched the video?"
"We did. It was..." Sasuke searched for words. "Overwhelming. In a good way."
"Your mothers spent weeks perfecting that recording. They wanted to get the tone exactly right, supportive without being overbearing, emotional without being manipulative." Hiruzen smiled. "They debated for an hour about whether to include the embarrassing stories. Ultimately decided that honesty and humanity were more important than maintaining mystique."
"The stories made it better," Sasuke admitted. "Made them feel more real instead of just legendary trainers we're supposed to emulate."
"That was precisely their intention." Hiruzen pulled out a folder from the bag he'd brought. "Now, there's the matter of teaching you to actually drive this vehicle. Your mother mentioned you learned basic operation during your Crown Tundra training, but this is considerably more complex than a standard truck."
"I'm ready to learn."
"Excellent. Let's start with the basics and work up to the spatial compression controls. Fair warning, the compression mechanism is somewhat disorienting the first few times you use it."
The next two hours were intensive training. Hiruzen walked Sasuke through every control panel, every system, every emergency procedure. The driving controls were similar to what Sasuke had learned in the Tundra, but the spatial compression mechanics required entirely new understanding.
"The compression is activated through this control panel," Hiruzen explained, indicating a specialized display near the driver's seat. "You'll input the compression code, unique to this vehicle, and then press the activation button. The process takes thirty seconds and will warn you if any living creatures are still inside when you attempt it."
"What happens if someone is inside during compression?"
"Nothing pleasant. The spatial distortion would cause severe disorientation at minimum, potentially worse. Always confirm everyone has exited before compressing the vehicle."
They practiced the sequence repeatedly until Sasuke could execute it without referring to the manual. Then came the reverse, decompressing the vehicle from its portable form back to full size. That process was faster but required checking the surrounding area for obstacles that might interfere with expansion.
"The spatial compression technology is remarkably stable," Hiruzen said. "But it does require periodic maintenance. Every six months, you'll need to bring the Mobile Home to an authorized service center for inspection. I've included a list of approved facilities across Kanto and Johto."
Finally, it was time for the practical test. Sasuke would drive the Mobile Home through Pallet Town while Hiruzen observed and provided guidance. The girls insisted on coming along, claiming they needed to experience the ride before trusting Sasuke as their primary driver.
"That's fair," Sasuke admitted.
They loaded into the Mobile Home, Sasuke in the driver's seat, Hiruzen in the passenger seat, and the three girls claimed various spots in the living area. Their Pokemon scattered throughout the vehicle, exploring and claiming favorite spaces.
"Start the engine," Hiruzen instructed.
Sasuke pressed the ignition button. The engine hummed to life, surprisingly quiet for a vehicle this size. Multiple displays activated, showing him rear cameras, side cameras, and system status readings.
"Good. Now, basic driving is the same as any vehicle. But remember, this is larger than it appears from outside, and the spatial compression means you need to account for the internal weight distribution differently than a standard RV."
Sasuke released the parking brake and carefully pressed the accelerator. The Mobile Home moved forward smoothly, responding to his controls with surprising precision. He navigated out of Professor Hiruzen's garage and onto Pallet Town's streets.
"How does it feel?" Hiruzen asked.
"Good. The steering is more responsive than I expected."
"Modern suspension systems. The vehicle is designed to handle well despite its size." Hiruzen indicated a turn ahead. "Take that right. We'll do a circuit through town."
Sasuke guided the Mobile Home through Pallet Town's streets. People stopped to watch as they passed, a Spatially-Enhanced Mobile Home was distinctive enough to attract attention, especially in a small town. A few young trainers waved excitedly, probably assuming anyone driving such an expensive vehicle must be important.
"You're a natural driver," Hiruzen observed. "Your Crown Tundra training clearly included comprehensive vehicle operation."
"Father was thorough about everything."
They completed a full circuit of Pallet Town without incident. Sasuke parallel-parked the Mobile Home in a designated space near the town square, a maneuver that should have been difficult with a vehicle this size but somehow worked perfectly due to the enhanced controls.
"Excellent," Hiruzen declared. "You're fully qualified to operate this vehicle. I'll file the necessary paperwork with the League to add the Mobile Home operation certification to your Trainer License."
They returned to the laboratory's garage. As Sasuke parked in the original space, he noticed his companions gathering around the driver's area.
"That was smooth," Miyuki said. "I barely felt the turns."
"The suspension system is incredible," Kiyomi added. "I could walk around without losing my balance."
"I made cookies while we drove," Kasumi announced, holding up a plate. "The oven works perfectly even during travel. This changes everything about mobile food preparation."
"Save some for me," Sasuke said.
"Obviously. I made extra specifically for you." She grinned. "Driver gets priority on baked goods. That's the rule I just established."
Hiruzen collected his teaching materials and prepared to leave. "You're all set. The Mobile Home is yours, fully operational and ready for travel. I recommend spending the rest of today familiarizing yourselves with all systems and organizing your spaces. Tomorrow morning, you can begin your journey properly."
"Thank you, Professor," Miyuki said. "For everything. The licenses, the training, facilitating our mothers' gift."
"It's my pleasure to help the next generation." He paused at the entrance. "Your mothers were special people when they were your age. I have a feeling the four of you will be equally remarkable. Perhaps more so."
After he left, they spent the remainder of the afternoon doing exactly what he'd suggested, exploring every feature of the Mobile Home, testing systems, and claiming spaces. Miyuki organized the Pokemon care station with meticulous precision. Kasumi arranged the kitchen to her specifications, taking over cabinet space for her berry cultivation equipment. Kiyomi set up her research area in the office attachment, spreading out maps and tablets and archaeological reference materials. Sasuke claimed the ground floor sleeping space near the driver's area and unpacked his belongings, including the knife set from his father.
Victini supervised everything from various perches, apparently appointing itself as the Mobile Home's official inspector. The little Pokemon approved of each space with cheerful chirps.
As evening approached, they gathered in the living room for dinner. Sasuke cooked using the professional-grade kitchen, a simple meal of grilled chicken with roasted vegetables and rice, but the quality of the appliances elevated everything. They ate together at the dining table, talking about their plans for tomorrow's departure.
"We should leave early," Kiyomi suggested. "Maybe seven in the morning. That gives us a full day of travel toward Pewter City."
"Agreed," Miyuki said. "And we'll need to stop at the Pokemon Center before departure to stock up on medical supplies."
"I want to grab some local berries from the market," Kasumi added. "Pallet Town is known for unusual cultivars."
"Then we'll budget time for those stops," Sasuke confirmed. "Seven AM departure means we should start getting ready by six."
After dinner, they separated to their respective spaces for the night. Sasuke lay in his ground floor bed, Victini curled beside him, and listened to the sounds of the Mobile Home settling, footsteps on the upper floor, water running through pipes, the hum of refrigeration systems. These were the sounds of home now. Not the Uchiha compound in Blackthorn City, but this vehicle they'd share for the next year.
His phone buzzed with a message. The group chat his companions had created earlier:
Miyuki: Goodnight everyone. Thank you for being here.
Kasumi: Night! Tomorrow we officially start the adventure!
Kiyomi: Sleep well. We have a long day ahead.
Sasuke typed his own response:
Sasuke: Goodnight. See you all at six.
He set down his phone and closed his eyes. Tomorrow, the real journey would begin. Sixteen gym badges to collect. Endless roads to travel. Challenges they couldn't yet imagine.
But they'd face it together. In a home their mothers had provided. With bonds they were slowly building. As people they were still learning to be.
Outside, Pallet Town slept peacefully under stars. Inside the Mobile Home, four young trainers dreamed of the futures they'd create.