Dewford Town, a small island nestled in the southwestern part of the Hoenn region, located between the No. 106 and No. 107 waterways. This town serves as a relay between Rustboro City and Slateport City.
Despite its size, Dewford Town boasts its own gym, a fighting gym. The gym's presence is largely due to the Granite Cave, a mine situated in the northern part of the island.
Granite Cave attracts many travellers in search of rare stones and Rock-type Pokémon, including the current Hoenn Champion, Steven Stone, who has a passion for rocks that rivals his love for anything else. It's not uncommon to find him deep within Granite Cave, laughing while mining for treasures.
Our story centres on Ben Young. He resides in a beachside house sporting a cool tone with a small courtyard. His father, John Young, is a seasoned prospector and an elite trainer, and currently manages the family mine. His mother, Jane Young, is a junior breeder that often spends her time being a stay-at-home mom. While their financial situation may not be luxurious, Ben Young is content. With memories from his past life, he appreciates that his parents are alive and well, and they are able to provide for him. They, as the local iron and stone supplier has a longstanding partnership with the Stone family, a major player in the Pokémon world. This relationship ensures that Ben Young has been affiliated with the league since birth and can pursue his dreams as a trainer, far from any dark influences.
It's essential to note that the Pokémon world is far more complex than it appears in the anime; battles involve strategy and skill, not just Pokémon brawling.
Given the rich mineral deposits in Granite Cave, the Young family primarily focuses on mining iron ore in Dewford Town, with the site situated conveniently close to their home on the south slope of the cave. The abundance of minerals naturally attracts numerous rock and ground-type Pokémon, making the mine feel like a sanctuary for these wild creatures. Over time, Ben Young has grown fond of these Pokémon, feeling a connection with their often stoic and stable nature.
In addition to John's two Onix and a Lairon that guard the mine, various wild Pokémon inhabit the area. Common species include both Geodudes and Onix, with rarer finds such as Nosepass and Sableye. As a bonus for cohabitating with the Young family, these wild Pokémon occasionally lend a hand with the mining efforts, fostering a sense of camaraderie over time.
Growing up in this environment, Ben dreams of becoming a master of rock-type and ground-type Pokémon. His deep affection for Pokémon leads to him building friendships with the Pokémon around him. Seeing his son's rapport with Pokémon, John has been keen to share his knowledge about them since Ben was young. Although Ben was an avid Pokémon fan in his previous life, experiencing Pokémon in reality gives him a unique perspective that distinguishes fantasy from reality. Under the guidance of his father, he learns the nuances of training that go beyond what can be gleamed from the Pokémon media in his previous life.
For instance, while the Onix is classified as both rock and ground type with specific weaknesses, real battles aren't simply about base stats. Factors such as terrain, Pokémon level, and on-the-spot commands play vital roles in determining the outcome of a clash. The gap in skill among trainers from rookies to masters is vast, with experience and command levels greatly influencing performance.
As Ben approaches his tenth birthday, he reflects on the journey ahead. Standing before the mirror dressed in blue jeans and black t-shirt, he can hardly contain his excitement, thinking. He straps on his backpack and gloves, eager for the adventures to come in the world of Pokémon.
'It's time.'
Rushing downstairs, he calls out, "Mom, I'm leaving!"
"Slow down! Be careful," Jane replies, looking at her son with a mix of worry and affection. "Have you packed everything? Remember to brush your teeth, and call home..."
"I know, Mom! I'm not a kid anymore!" Ben sighs internally, realizing that mothers, no matter the world, always worry. "Don't worry, I'll remember."
Seeing the seriousness in his face, Jane smiles. "Alright, but please prioritize your safety."
Ben beams, "Just wait for me to become the Champion of Hoenn!"
"Go on, my champion! Your father is waiting for you at the mine."
With a final goodbye to his mother, Ben races toward the mine. Upon arrival, he finds his father, John, busy polishing the family's two Onix.
"Dad, I'm heading out!" Ben exclaims.
"Hey there!" John grins, eyeing his son. "You're a bundle of energy today!"
Ben chuckles, "Haven't you been waiting for this moment?"
"Indeed. Just remember, stay grounded like the rocks," his father teases.
Ben straightens up, affectionately touching the larger Onix. "Yes, I'll strive to be the most resilient trainer the future Rock Lord! Me and your child will reach the top."
"Alright, enough boasting! Let's get moving," John says, waving him off with a smile. "Take care of the Onix."
Ben glances at the young Onix by his side, determination in his eyes. "Are you ready for our adventure?"
The young creature nods in response, and Ben, thrilled, retrieves a Luxury Ball.
"Come on, partner! Let's make this official." As he activates the ball, the young Onix touches it, disappearing in a flash of light.
With a triumphant smile, Ben raises the ball high. "We did it! We're partners now!"
[Ding! You have successfully obtained your first Pokémon, and the cultivation system is activated!]