The morning sun rose over the family home, its warm rays a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere within. Gladion awoke to the sound of muffled sobs coming from downstairs.

He could feel one less presence in the house because of his Psychic powers.

A sense of dread settled in his stomach as he made his way to the living room, Gwen close behind.

Their parents, Erza and Ben, sat on the couch, their faces etched with grief. In Ben's trembling hands was a letter, the paper crumpled slightly from his tight grip.

"Kids," Erza said, her voice breaking, "I'm so sorry. Grandpa Maren... he passed away in his sleep last night."

The words hit Gladion like a thunderbolt. He felt Gwen's hand slip into his, squeezing tightly. Tears welled up in his eyes as the reality sank in – their beloved grandfather, the man who had given them their first Pokémon and encouraged their dreams, was gone.

Ben cleared his throat, his eyes red-rimmed. "Venasaur brought this letter this morning. It's... it's from Dad. He wanted us to have it, just in case."

With shaking hands, Ben unfolded the letter and began to read aloud:

"My dear family,

If you're reading this, it means I've finally kicked the bucket. Don't worry, I'm probably giving Arceus a run for his money up here in Pokémon heaven. (That's a joke, son. Lighten up a little, will you?)

First things first – to my loyal Pokémon, Rhydon and Venasaur. You two crusty old battlers have been with me through thick and thin. Rhydon, try not to headbutt anyone in grief, alright? And Venasaur, keep that Sunny Day shining, even when it's cloudy. You two take care of the family now, you hear?

To my son, Ben, and my beautiful daughter-in-law, Erza – thank you for putting up with this old man's shenanigans all these years. Ben, you've grown into a fine man and an even better father. I couldn't be prouder. Erza, you've brought so much light into our lives. Keep that family of yours in line, will you? Someone's got to be the sensible one.

And to my precious grandchildren, Gladion and Gwen. You two are the future, bright and shining like a Amzurill's tail on a summer night. Gladion, my boy, that Larvitar egg is going to hatch into something spectacular, just you wait. Remember, a true trainer isn't just strong – they're kind, brave, and always willing to learn. And Gwen, my little ghost whisperer, you've got a gift unlike any I've ever seen. That Gastly of yours is going to help you shake up the world, mark my words.

Now, I know you're all probably crying and carrying on something fierce. But let me tell you a secret – death is just another adventure. And you know me, I've never been one to turn down a good adventure. So dry those tears and remember the good times. Remember the battles we fought, the jokes we shared, and the love that's always been the heart of our family.

And if you really want to honor my memory, live your lives to the fullest. Chase your dreams, love with all your heart, and never, ever back down from a challenge. That's the Vortex way, after all.

This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

Oh, and Ben? That stash of Rare Candies I always said I didn't have? Check under the loose floorboard in my room. Consider it my last little joke on you, son.

I love you all more than words can say. Take care of each other, and I'll be watching over you from wherever this next adventure takes me.

All my love,

Grandpa Maren

P.S. Gladion, Gwen – become the trainers I know you can be. The world's waiting for you."

As Ben finished reading, there wasn't a dry eye in the room. Even Rhydon and Venasaur, who had been listening from the garden, let out low, mournful cries.

The days that followed were a blur of preparations and condolences. News of Maren's passing spread quickly through the Pokémon community, and trainers from all over the region began to arrive for the funeral.

On the day of the service, Gladion stood with Gwen in the gym's battle arena, which had been transformed for the occasion. Rows of chairs faced a podium, behind which stood a large photo of Grandpa Maren in his prime, a mischievous grin on his face and a Pokéball in hand.

As people filed in, Gladion was amazed at the number of familiar faces he recognized from his Pokémon games and anime. Gym leaders and Elite Four members of Kanto had come to pay their respects.

The service was a mixture of tears and laughter as friends and family shared stories of Maren's adventures, his kindness, and his infamous practical jokes. Gladion held tight to his Pupitar egg throughout, drawing comfort from its warmth.

As the formal part of the service concluded, people began to mingle, sharing more personal memories. Gladion and Gwen found themselves approached by a tall, muscular man with spiky blonde hair and a military bearing.

"You must be Maren's grandkids," he said, his voice gruff but kind. "I'm Lt. Surge, Vermilion City Gym Leader."

He did not wait for any reply as he continued

"Well, Your grandpa, he called me 'Sparkplug' back in the day. Said I was always ready to start a fight."

Gwen giggled despite her tears. "That sounds like Grandpa."

Lt. Surge's expression grew more serious. "I fought beside your grandpa in the Pokémon wars. I was under his command as a rookie. He was one of the bravest men I ever knew. Saved my life more times than I can count."

Gladion and Gwen listened, rapt, as Lt. Surge launched into a story.

"There was this one time, deep in enemy territory. We were surrounded, outnumbered ten to one. Your grandpa and I were back to back, our Pokémon exhausted. Things looked grim."

Lt. Surge's eyes took on a faraway look. "Then your grandpa, cool as you please, looks at me and says, 'Hey Sparkplug, bet you can't take down more of 'em than me.' And just like that, we're treating it like some kind of game. We fought our way out, laughing like maniacs the whole time."

He shook his head, a fond smile on his face. "That was Maren for you. Could turn the direst situation into a challenge, a game. Never saw him lose hope, not once."

Gladion felt a surge of pride hearing about his grandfather's bravery. "We want to be strong trainers like him," he said, Gwen nodding in agreement.

Lt. Surge's gaze softened. "Well, you've got his blood in you, that's for sure. Train hard, kids. The world needs trainers like you and your grandpa."

As Lt. Surge moved on to speak with others, Gladion and Gwen exchanged a look. Their grandfather's loss still ached, but hearing stories like this, understanding the impact he'd had on so many lives, filled them with determination.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of conversations and condolences. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the arena, Gladion found a quiet moment alone. He sat on a bench, the Larvitar egg cradled in his lap, and looked up at the sky.

"I hope you're watching, Grandpa," he whispered. "We're going to make you proud. I promise."

As if in response, the egg in his lap gave a strong wiggle. Gladion gasped, calling out to Gwen and his parents. They rushed over just in time to see the first crack appear in the shell.

With bated breath, they watched as the egg rocked back and forth, more cracks spreading across its surface. Finally, with a burst of light, the shell split open, revealing a rather large baby Larvitar.

"Tar?" it chirped, blinking up at Gladion with curious eyes.

Tears streamed down Gladion's face as he gently stroked the newborn Pokémon's hard shell. "Hello there," he said softly. "I'm Gladion. We're going to be partners and best of friends."

Gwen, her own eyes shining with tears, placed a hand on her brother's shoulder. "It's like Grandpa knew," she said. "He wanted to make sure you had your partner before he left."

Erza and Ben looked at each other in shock.

'Did we just hear Gwen say words of wisdom?'

Gladion felt a warm breeze ruffle his hair. For just a moment, he thought he caught a whiff of Grandpa Maren's favorite pipe tobacco on the wind.

Looking down at Larvitar, then up at his family and the gathered trainers who had come to honor his grandfather, Gladion felt a renewed sense of purpose. The road ahead might be challenging, but he wasn't walking it alone. He had his family, his Pokémon, and the enduring legacy of Grandpa Maren to guide him.

As the stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky, Gladion made a silent vow. He would become a trainer worthy of his grandfather's memory, facing each new day with courage, determination, and just a touch of mischief. After all, that was the Vortex way.