The classroom gleamed with futuristic screens and tools, but what caught my attention was the large, holographic type chart projected on the central display. Each Pokémon type glowed in vibrant colors, and lines connected strengths to weaknesses in a web that seemed more complicated than I had expected.
Rowan stood at the front, gesturing toward the chart. “Understanding the type table is crucial for trainers. It’s the foundation of battling, and even more so, for taking care of your Pokémon. Knowing their strengths, weaknesses, and habitats can help you form a stronger bond.”
Jenna chimed in with a smile. “Exactly. It’s not just about fighting—it’s about knowing your Pokémon. And speaking of that, why don’t we try out the Pokédex feature on your Rotom Phones? Go ahead, open it.”
Morgan and I reached for our phones, powered them on, and tapped the Pokédex icon. The devices began to glow faintly, and before I could wonder what was happening, they floated out of our hands, the screen twisting into a cheerful expression.
“Hello there!” my Rotom Phone chirped, its voice chipper.
Morgan’s eyes widened, and she gasped. “It talks?!”
“Sure do!” her phone replied with equal enthusiasm. “I’m here to assist you with all your Pokédex needs!”
Jenna laughed. “Rotom technology. They’re more than just tools—they’re companions in their own right. Now, why don’t you scan your Pokémon and see what they’re all about?”
I hesitated, still getting used to the idea of a floating, sentient device. “Uh, okay. Wooper, hold still for a sec.”
Wooper, now sitting on a desk with its tail swishing lazily, blinked up at me. The phone scanned it with a faint beep before speaking:
Paldean WooperType: Poison/GroundPokédex Entry:When Paldean Wooper left the water to live on land, they began covering their bodies with a poisonous film to keep themselves from drying out. They thrive in wetlands and can often be seen playing in mud. Be cautious—their slime can leave a nasty sting if touched.Moves: Tackle, Tail Whip, Poison Tail, Mud ShotAbility: Poison Point: Contact with this Pokémon may poison the attacker.
I glanced at Wooper, who gave me an almost smug look. “Poison Point, huh? That’s... both cool and terrifying.”
Next, I scanned Joltik. The tiny yellow Pokémon perked up, crawling toward the phone as it chirped its entry:
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JoltikType: Bug/ElectricPokédex Entry:Joltik, the Attaching Pokémon, is so small that it can't generate its own electricity. Instead, it clings to larger Pokémon or hides near electrical outlets to absorb static electricity for energy. It’s a common sight near power plants and homes with plenty of electronic devices.Moves: Leech Life, String Shot, Thunder WaveAbility: Swarm: Powers up Bug-type moves when the Pokémon's HP is low.
Morgan giggled. “He’s adorable. And resourceful!”
Now it was her turn. She knelt to let Azurill bounce closer to the Rotom Phone, which scanned it and chirped brightly:
AzurillType: Normal/FairyPokédex Entry:Azurill bounces on its tail, which is packed with nutrients. This small Pokémon uses its tail as a flotation device while playing in the water. Its cheerful demeanor belies its surprising strength—its tail can carry up to five times its body weight.Moves: Splash, Tail Whip, Water GunAbility: Sap Sipper: Boosts Attack when hit by a Grass-type move.
Morgan beamed at Azurill. “You hear that? Your tail’s a superpower!”
Azurill chirped happily, hopping around Morgan in a little circle.
Rowan clapped his hands to bring us back to attention. “Good. Now you know more about your Pokémon and the abilities they bring to your journey. But remember, caring for them isn’t just about battling. It’s about understanding their needs and environments.”
Jenna nodded. “For example, Wooper thrives in muddy areas, so you’ll need to keep it hydrated and avoid over-cleaning its skin. The poisonous film is part of its protection. Joltik, on the other hand, will need a steady source of electrical energy—don’t be surprised if you find it sticking to your gear now and then.”
I glanced at Joltik, who was already nibbling on the edge of my phone. “Figures,” I muttered with a small smile.
“For Azurill,” Jenna continued, turning to Morgan, “keep an eye on its tail. It’s strong, but injuries there can really affect it. And since it’s part Fairy-type, it may have an edge against some common foes like Dark-types, but don’t underestimate the importance of training its Normal moves.”
Morgan nodded seriously, though she was still grinning at Azurill.
Rowan leaned forward. “One last thing before you set out: Survival in the Pokémon world isn’t just about battling trainers or catching Pokémon. Always keep extra supplies, respect the local Pokémon habitats, and learn to read the signs of wild Pokémon behavior. A lot of problems can be avoided by simply paying attention.”
“Got it,” Morgan said, her enthusiasm undamped.
Meanwhile, Wooper waddled over to Joltik and Azurill, who were now sitting near each other on the floor. Joltik clicked its tiny mandibles, and Azurill chirped back, hopping closer. Wooper flopped down beside them, flicking its tail in what I could only interpret as approval.
“Looks like they’re getting along,” Jenna observed with a smile.
Morgan laughed softly. “It’s like they’ve already decided they’re friends.”
I watched the three Pokémon interact, feeling a strange sense of relief. Despite all my worries, they seemed comfortable—like they belonged together.
“Maybe this won’t be so bad,” I said under my breath.
Morgan elbowed me gently. “You’re going to be great, Uriel. They already like you.”
I wasn’t sure about that yet, but watching Joltik crawl onto Wooper’s head while Azurill bounced in place made me think that, at the very least, we were off to a good start.