Elysia stood before the mirror, the reflection staring back at her. She was making the final arrangements for her appearance before she was going to leave with their parents to the airport. Her hair, a cascading river of chestnut brown, flowed in loose waves reminiscent of her mother's own lustrous locks. The sunlight caught in the strands, creating a natural halo that seemed to illuminate her excitement for the journey ahead.
Her reflection portrayed a fascinating blend of her wild and free-spirited demeanor she took from her father, and her mother's refined fashion sense. The loose-fitting white tank top she wore was adorned with a subtle floral pattern, adding a touch of femininity that harmonized with her adventurous spirit. The tank top allowed freedom of movement, a nod to her preference for unrestrained exploration.
Elysia's choice of slightly distressed denim jeans bore the marks of previous adventures, with each new scuff and tear telling a tale of the paths she was going to traverse. A stylish belt, inspired by Galar's dynamic culture, was tucked into her jeans, serving as a colorful reminder of the vibrant world waiting for her in that region.
Unlike her father, Elysia preferred a more pragmatic approach to her adventure and way of thinking, and that mentality transcended to her footwear—a pair of sneakers that had already carried her through some landscapes. The colorful laces added a playful flair, matching the vibrancy of the landscapes and towns she planned to explore.
Elysia's love for accessories spoke volumes. The first wristband she received from her Big Bro Lei encircled her wrists, and with the promise of many more that were going to tell a unique story of a different place or adventure. As her fingers traced the delicate silver chain around her neck, she smiled at the small Pokémon charm she received from her grandmothers, dangling gracefully.
With a final glance in the mirror, Elysia took a deep breath, feeling the weight of anticipation and excitement. As she was mere hours before stepping out into the world, she carried not just her parent's features and fashion sense, but also a legacy of adventure and a spirit ready to embrace the unknown.
“Pikacharm! Are you ready?”, yelled her father from the living room.
“Done! Coming down!”, she responded, taking her bag and calling back Gible who was still chewing her pillow.
Closing the door to her childhood room behind her, Elysia took a moment to absorb the stillness that lingered within. The walls, adorned with posters and memories of a carefree past, now stood bare, echoing the quietude of a chapter coming to a close. The room, witness to the laughter of her first ten years, was now a silent testament to the beginning of her journey. With a mixture of nostalgia and determination, Elysia turned away, leaving behind the familiar confines of her past.
. . . .
The airport terminal was filled with the hum of excited travelers, but in one corner, away from the crowd, there was a small family, their emotions a mix of pride, excitement, and a touch of nervousness. Elysia, holding her Gible's Poké Ball, waited for the flight about to embark on her journey.
Ash and Serena, wearing sunglasses and hats that helped them go unnoticed, stood beside her, their expressions a blend of parental pride and a twinge of nostalgia. Pikachu, perched on Ash's shoulder, gave Elysia an encouraging chirp as if to say, "You've got this!"
As they waited for the boarding announcement, Elysia looked out at the bustling airport, her excitement tinged with a bit of nervousness. This was her first time being so far from home, and the unknown adventure awaiting her in Galar felt both thrilling and a little overwhelming.
Soren, held in Ash's arms, giggled as he reached out toward Pikachu, his eyes reflecting a subtle moment he wanted to draw later. Serena, still arranging some of Eysia’s belongings as if trying to share as much as possible before she leaves, smiled at her daughter, her eyes reflecting the memories of her own journey and the realization that it was now Elysia's turn.
Ash, with a knowing grin, bent down to Elysia's eye level and said, "Remember what I always told you, Elysia. Never give up, no matter what. Your journey in Galar will be full of challenges, but each one is an opportunity to learn and grow."
Serena, with a playful chuckle, added, "And don't forget that your father used that same line on me when we were kids. It's a Ketchum family motto!"
Elysia, with a mix of gratitude and determination, nodded. Suddenly, the boarding announcement came over the intercom, and the family gathered for a final hug. Pikachu hopped off Ash's shoulder and joined in, creating a warm and comforting embrace.
As they parted ways at the security gate, Soren waved his tiny hand, and Pikachu gave an energetic farewell cry. Elysia, still holding her Gible’s Poké Ball in hand, walked toward the departure gate, a blend of nerves and excitement in her eyes.
With a final glance back, she saw her parents and brother cheering her on. Ash raised his fist and called out, "Never give up, Elysia! We believe in you!"
Serena, her eyes shimmering with pride, added, "Make memories, learn, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of your journey!"
Soren also gave a cheerful wave, and Pikachu added a thunderous growl.
Elysia took a deep breath, feeling the love and support of her family. With newfound determination, she walked through the gate, ready to face the challenges and adventures that awaited her in the Galar region. The Ketchum legacy of passion, perseverance, and Pokémon journeys ensured its continuation in the hands of the next generation.
. . . .
The rhythmic hum of the plane's engines and the gentle vibrations of the aircraft created a soothing ambiance as Elysia gazed out of the window, lost in her thoughts. The vast expanse of the sky unfolded before her, a canvas of endless possibilities.
Abruptly, a voice from the front seat interrupted her contemplation. Startled, Elysia turned to see a boy around her age offering a friendly smile. He apologized for the sudden interruption, and a slight blush graced his cheeks.
"Hey there! Sorry to disturb you. I couldn't help but notice... is your dad by any chance Ash Ketchum, the World Monarch?" The boy's eyes glimmered with excitement and admiration.
Surprised by the recognition, Elysia nodded, a smile forming on her face. "Yeah, he is. How did you...?"
But before she could finish her sentence, the boy's eyes lit up even more, and exclaimed, "That's amazing! My dad talks about him all the time. He says Ash is the coolest Trainer ever! Can I sit next to you?"
“Uhm.. sure, why…?” Elysia tried to say, but the boy swiftly changed his seat without her finishing her sentence.
“My name is Owen!”, the boy said. “I’m also a new trainer on a special quest!”
Intrigued, Elysia asked him what kind of adventure he was looking for exactly, but her interest was answered once the boy presented what seemed a notebook worn and weathered – a testament to the many battles and journeys it has endured. The cover, once vibrant and smooth, now bore the marks of fingerprints, creases, and the occasional splash of mud.
“This is my ‘Legends Almanac’!” Owen proudly said. “It used to be my parent’s book, but now it is my turn to gather and treasure signatures from renowned trainers around the world! See? I have many that your dad fought over the years!”
As Elysia flipped through, she recognized familiar faces – Leon, the former World Monarch before her father defeated him in his youth, Lance, the Dragon-type master, Wallace, the elegant Water-type expert and still Contests’ judge, Steven, the former Hoenn Champion, and many others. All of them were portrayed during their prime when Elysia’s father was still young.
Though some were old, the pages within were a vibrant tapestry of memories, each bearing witness to the presence of legendary trainers from all corners of the Pokémon world. Faded ink outlined the autographs, and some of the photos, once glossy and pristine, now evoked a sense of nostalgia. They captured moments frozen in time – intense battles, joyous victories, and heartfelt meetings with icons of the Pokémon realm.
The notebook's edges were frayed, showcasing the eagerness with which pages were turned, stories absorbed, and signatures obtained. Stickers of various Pokémon types clang to the corners, acting as colorful mementos of the diverse trainers encountered on the remarkable journey.
“These are great!,” Elysia expressed. “If it is about autographs, I’d love to have one personally signed by anyone from the PokéBanter Crew.’”
“What!? You also listen to the ‘PokéBanter Crew!?” Owen asked.
“I love it! It 's my favorite show of all time!” Elysia shared with delight.
“Me too! But an autograph with a special dedication from them is extremely difficult to get! They only give those to some few lucky winners of their anniversary episodes”, Owen added. “Who’s your favorite? I personally prefer either Jasmine Star or Jasper Mirage. They make any topic interesting and appealing to try.”
“I just love Maverick Croon’s streetwise tone. I think he’s the funniest of them all, and don’t forget that he came out with their iconic phrase...”
“CATCH THE BANTER WAVE!”, both said in loud unison, causing some other passengers to tell them to be quiet and hold their laughter.
“Do you think people will ever find out their true identities?” Elysia pointed at one of the biggest popular culture mysteries.
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“Fans have tried to find out many times but they always wear these extravagant outfits in their scarce appearances,” Owen responded, raising his finger. “Though many think that the sudden cry of a Wobbuffet in the background may give a hint.”
“Really!? I thought it was just a sound effect they play for amusement!”
As they continued passing the pages of Owen’s almanac and he recounted the stories behind each signature, Elysia couldn't help but be captivated by the wealth of experiences these trainers have accumulated. The Legends Almanac was a testament to the diversity of the Pokémon world and the interconnectedness of trainers from various regions.
When Elysia finally found Cynthia's younger picture, she smiled and said, "Auntie Cynthia is still as beautiful as she was twenty years ago. She’s also like a funny but strict aunt to me, but she gave me the egg that hatched into my Gible".
Owen's eyes widened in astonishment. "You got a Pokémon from Cynthia herself!? That's incredible! She's a legend among trainers, and you have a Pokémon that she personally gave you?!"
Elysia noded, her pride evident. "Yeah, I worked hard to make sure it hatched before my journey, and when it finally did, it made my 10th birthday truly special. Cynthia's wisdom and guidance have been invaluable in my family."
Owen, now even more fascinated, leaned in closer. "Do you have any advice from her? Anything she told you?"
Elysia, reflecting on Cynthia's words, shared, "She said that every journey is a story waiting to be written. Embrace the unexpected, learn from every challenge, and cherish the bonds you form with your Pokémon. It's not just about becoming a champion; it's about becoming the best version of yourself and creating memories that last a lifetime."
Owen, inspired by Elysia's story, gazed at his Almanac with renewed appreciation. His eyes widened with a mix of disappointment and excitement as he realized that he just missed the chance of getting Ash’s autograph.
Elysia laughed gently, understanding his disappointment. "It's not easy to recognize them. My parents usually wear caps or sunglasses to stay low-key, especially with the crowds that gather around during public places. They want to make sure they have some privacy too."
Owen, now contemplating the missed opportunity, shook his head with a smile. "Well, I guess that's the challenge of getting the autograph from the world-famous trainers, right?"
Elysia nodded in agreement. "They love meeting fans, but they also appreciate having some moments of normalcy. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you’ll get another chance in the future”.
“Really?!”, Owen shouted, annoying some of the already tired passengers. “You are like the most wonderful and prettiest person ever!”
As he said that, and realizing that he had said something too bold considering they just met, Owen blushed, stumbling over his words as he tried to apologize, then quickly covered his head as if he expected a potentially awkward reaction. Elysia, however, took the compliment in stride, her demeanor calm and appreciative as she warmly smiled and put Owen at ease.
"Thank you, Owen. That's sweet of you to say. I appreciate the compliment."
Owen. relieved that his comment was well-received, returned an awkward smile. Elysia, perceptive and with a hint of playfulness, noticed his initial hesitation and decided to address it directly.
"So, did you expect me to blush or get embarrassed when you complimented me?" she asked, a lighthearted smile playing on her lips.
Owen, a bit surprised by her directness, chuckled nervously. "Well, I mean, yeah. It's not every day you tell someone they're... you know, pretty."
Elysia laughed, a sound that echoed genuine amusement. "You know, I've heard that a lot since I was little. 'You look like your mom,' 'You're so pretty,' all of that. I guess I've become a bit immune to those kinds of compliments. So, no blushing here."
Owen, now more at ease, grinned. "Guess I should come up with something more original next time, huh?"
Elysia playfully raised an eyebrow, and with a feeling of a mischievous spark, decided to turn the tables a bit. With a playful glint in her eye, she said. "Maybe. But you know, Owen, you're kind of handsome."
Owen, caught off guard, turned a deep shade of red, and any semblance of speech coordination seemed to abandon him. His attempts to form a coherent response resulted in even more stammered words and a look of genuine surprise.
Elysia couldn't help but burst into laughter, her amusement echoing in the cabin. "Got you there, didn't I?" she teased with her mischievous smile.
As Owen fumbled, he accidentally dropped his Almanac, but Elysia's quick reflexes saved it from falling to the floor. She handed it back to him with a reassuring smile. However, as she returned the notebook, a page flipped open, revealing a slightly blurry photo of a young girl about five years older than her with long dark brown hair arranged in a fluffy ponytail, sporting a white cap. The amateurish quality of the photo suggested that it had been taken in haste, trying to capture a moment beyond the camera’s and photographer’s capabilities.
Curious, Elysia pointed at the person in the picture. "Who's this? I don't remember any famous trainer who looks like her".
Owen took a deep breath, seemingly preparing to share some intriguing information. "That's Hilda. She's a trainer from Unova and has become a rising star. Conquered her region’s league in record time, tried to beat the Elite Four and is now focusing on Galar."
Elysia, intrigued by the mysterious girl, raised an eyebrow. "So, what's the story with her? Why is she so notable?"
Owen leaned in a bit, as if sharing a secret. "Hilda is ruthless, pretty savage in battles. She's gained a reputation not only for being a strong contender but also someone you don't want to encounter if you're still a novice, because she will battle you whether you are experienced or not. She's got this fierce determination that sets her apart. A lot of trainers look up to her, but they also fear crossing paths with her in a battle."
Elysia, now even more intrigued, pointed at Hilda’s photo and asked, "Why do you have a photo of her in your notebook? Do you know her personally?"
Owen, blushing once more and with a bashful tone, responded.
"Well, not exactly. I mean, she's got this fierce reputation, and a lot of trainers talk about her like she's this unstoppable force. But, you see, I happened to meet her once."
"Really? What was it like?" Elysia leaned in, eager to hear the story behind the photo.
Owen smiled, a hint of admiration in his eyes.
"She was in one of these new street battlefields, you know, kicking other trainers' butts and stuff. I thought it would be cool to get her autograph, even though people warned me that she could be a bit... intense. Whatever, I happened to take a picture of her during one of her battles, but she is not someone who can stay quiet. When Hilda noticed what I was doing, she approached me with this severe look. I thought I had dug my own grave and tried to apologize with utter horror. However, when I explained to her, she was actually really nice. Gave me her autograph with this cool gesture, completely different from what people said about her."
Elysia, now understanding, noded appreciatively. "So, despite her reputation, you still find her cool?"
Owen grinned. "Yeah! I mean, it's not every day you meet someone who's both tough in battles and surprisingly cool in person. Plus, I figured, when she becomes a super famous trainer, this photo might be extremely valuable. It's the very first one she ever signed, you know? At least that’s what she told me."
Elysia chuckled. "Well, Owen, you've got quite the collection of stories in that Almanac of yours. Meeting trainers, getting autographs, and capturing moments—it's like your own Pokémon journey in a book."
Owen appreciated Elysia’s kind and sympathetic words. Despite her upbringing, he was happy to meet someone so humble and appreciative for his favorite passion.
As Elysia and Owen continued to share stories and laugh during the flight, a calm and excited energy surrounded them. The hum of the plane and the gentle chatter of passengers formed a background melody to their conversations.
Suddenly, the intercom crackled to life, and the announcement filled the cabin: "Ladies and gentlemen, we have arrived in Galar. Please fasten your seatbelts as we prepare for landing."
Elysia and Owen, their attention caught by the announcement, exchanged excited glances. They quickly secured their seatbelts and gazed out of the window, eager to catch the first glimpses of the Galar region unfolding beneath them.
For Owen, this was a momentous occasion. It was his first time setting foot in Galar, a region filled with new Pokémon, challenges, and opportunities to add more entries to his “Legends Almanac”. The landscape outside the window transformed into a patchwork of vibrant fields, bustling cities, and towering stadiums. Owen's eyes widened with wonder as he took in the beauty of Galar for the first time.
Elysia, though familiar with the region from her previous visits with her father, found a special excitement in this journey. It was her first time exploring Galar on her own, free to forge her own path and create unique memories in a region that held a special place in her family’s history as the one where her father became the World Coronation Series Monarch. A title he still held to this day.
As the plane descended, the scenery became more defined, and the rich colors of Galar came into sharper focus. The rolling hills, pristine lakes, and architectural wonders passed by, each landmark telling a story of the region's history and culture.
The plane touched down on the airport of Motostoke City, and the excitement in the cabin reached a new high. As passengers prepared to disembark, Elysia and Owen exchanged one last glance, their faces reflecting the anticipation of the adventures that awaited them in Galar.
As they left the airport, and the duo stepped into Motostoke city, Owen finally gathered his courage, took a deep breath and finally asked.
“Elysia, w-would you… would you consider traveling together?” His request hung in the air, but Elysia, with her characteristic and sympathetic smile, politely declined.
"Thanks for the offer, Owen. I've been looking forward to traveling alone, at least for the first two gyms. But hey, if you're up for it, we could team up afterward. What do you think?"
Owen, understanding her perspective, nodded with a smile. "Sure, Elysia! I get it. Traveling alone has its own charm. After the first two gyms, though, count me in. And, uh, would it be alright if I get your number? You know, for coordinating our plans and stuff."
Elysia, appreciating Owen's understanding, happily exchanged numbers with him. Owen, a bit flustered but genuinely pleased, couldn't help but blush at the first time he ever got a girl’s number that wasn’t his mom or a relative.
As they parted ways and headed to their own destinations, Elysia decided to explore Motostoke city, not without calling their parents first. With her Rotom phone in hand, she initiated the call, and after a while, her mother’s face appeared on the screen, her expression radiating warmth and anticipation.
"Hey, Mom! Guess who just landed in Galar?" Elysia greeted, her voice filled with enthusiasm as she pointed at the background, where the industrial style characteristic of Motostoke City adorned the Pokémon Center.
Serena's eyes lit up. "Pikacharm! You made it! I knew Galar would perfectly match your style. How was the flight?"
Elysia shared her experiences briefly, capturing the scenic views from the plane and expressing her eagerness for the adventures that awaited her in the region. As the conversation flowed, Elysia couldn't help but feel the absence of Owen, who had already departed to explore the city on his own.
"Mom, I've already made a friend here. His name's Owen. We met on the plane, and he's also here for his Pokémon journey," Elysia explained, her tone vibrant as she also told her mom about Owen’s passion and the possible chance that both of them would give her new friend the chance to give him their autographs personally.
Serena smiled at the thought. "Of course! Owen sounds like a charming boy. Look at you, making friends right away. Pokémon journeys are always more exciting when shared with others."
Elysia continued to share snippets of her plans and the vibrant atmosphere of Galar. She mentioned Owen's enthusiasm and how they planned to explore the city together after their individual adventures, but then she asked where his father was.
"Your dad had to attend a meeting with Cynthia and the new champion of Hoenn, so he couldn't join the call. But he sends his regards and can't wait to catch up with you," Serena informed.
With a warm goodbye and a suggestion from Serena to try the famous though strong flavors of Motostoke City, the call ended. Elysia, now alone on the bustling streets of the city, felt a renewed sense of anticipation. The journey had truly begun, and the urban landscape held the promise of new Pokémon encounters and the forging of lasting friendships.