The morning air was crisp, tinged with the anticipation of the pivotal day ahead. Ishi awoke earlier than usual, his mind buzzing with the thoughts of what was to come. Today wasn’t a typical day at school; instead, it marked the first step toward realising a dream that had been brewing ever since he had crafted his first functional Pokéball.
Clad in his ninja garb, which seemed to feel more official this morning, Ishi checked his appearance in the mirror. His outfit was meticulously arranged, the fabric smooth and the seams perfectly aligned, befitting the gravity of the day. He patted the pocket where his newly crafted Pokéball was safely tucked away, its presence reassuring against his side.
Descending the stairs, Ishi found his father, Haku, already in the kitchen, preparing a light breakfast. The usually casual morning atmosphere was replaced by a sense of purpose and slight tension. Haku looked up and offered a reassuring smile as Ishi entered.
“Good morning, Ishi. Ready for the big day?” Haku asked, placing a plate of steamed rice and a few slices of fruit on the table.
“Yeah, I think so,” Ishi responded, trying to keep his voice steady despite the nerves. “It feels different from going to school, doesn’t it?”
“It certainly does,” Haku agreed, sitting down across from him. “But you’re prepared. Just remember to speak clearly and confidently. Show the elders the same dedication and passion you’ve shown at home and during your sessions with Mrs. Tanoshi.”
Ishi nodded, taking a few bites of his breakfast, though he found he wasn’t as hungry as usual. The excitement mingled with nerves made it hard to focus on eating. After a few moments of silent eating, Haku stood up, collecting the dishes, and Ishi checked the quest that had appeared a few days prior after his father had told him about the meeting he had set up for him with the elders and chief of the village.
Confirmed. Quest Created:
Your Adoring Father Has Put A Lot Of Faith In Your Abilities. Make Sure To Prove Him Right And Gain The Respect And Permission You Desire From The Chief!
Rewards: 20 Exp Per Elder You Convince, 50 Exp If Given Permission Directly From The Chief.
He had of course accepted it and began preparing his reasoning and playing how the interaction could go in his head. Now that he had unlocked the aura stat he believed he had another hidden card to play but he still wanted to keep this card close to his chest just in case. Another reason for this is he had been unable to practise and see its uses at all since unlocking it. ‘The Exp isn’t bad either so win win’ he thought with an internal shrug.
“Let’s not linger too long. We want to be on time and ready to present your case to Chief Hanzo and the council,” Haku said, washing the plates quickly. “Make sure you have everything you need.”
Ishi patted his satchel again, feeling the contours of the Pokéball. “Got it right here,” he said, his hand resting over his side where the Pokéball lay safely stored.
They left together, after a quick call over each of their shoulders to his mum about being off and seeing her later, father and son walking side by side through the quiet streets of Ninja Village. The village was just waking up, with the soft light of dawn casting long shadows on the path ahead. As they walked, Haku offered last-minute advice, mostly reminders to keep calm and to be articulate about his achievements and his aspirations.
The path to the council chamber was familiar, yet it felt entirely new with the day's purpose, he seemed to remember a few times early in his childhood when his dad had brought him to where he worked and introduced him to some of the elders. In Ishi’s oh so humble opinion the gloomy old buggers could use a drink and to remove the obvious rods they’d got stuck somewhere, but given he was a kid he had just acted all sweet and innocent.
As the building came into view, Ishi felt a surge of determination. This was his moment to show not just his skill but his readiness to take on greater responsibilities.
Reaching the entrance, Haku placed a hand on Ishi’s shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. “You’ve got this, Ishi.”
With a deep breath, Ishi stepped forward, ready to make his case, his heart pounding with the promise of new beginnings.
Haku gently pushed open the heavy wooden door to the council chamber, a hush fell over the room, drawing the attention of all present to the newcomers. Ishi stepped through the threshold behind his father, his heart thumping in his chest as he entered the solemn space. The eyes of Chief Hanzo and the gathered elders immediately fixed on him, their gazes sharp and assessing, scrutinising his every movement as he moved forward.
Confirmed. Quest Progression:
Your Adoring Father Has Put A Lot Of Faith In Your Abilities. Make Sure To Prove Him Right And Gain The Respect And Permission You Desire From The Chief!
Progress:
Chief - 2%
Number of Elders Convinced - 0
Ishi's eyes briefly wandered around the room, ignoring the messages that had popped up in front of him, taking in the setting that reminded him starkly of a Japanese-style dojo from his previous world.
The chamber was spacious and austere, with polished wooden floors that gleamed under the soft lighting from overhead lanterns. The walls were adorned with scrolls and weapons, each item telling a story of the village’s rich history and traditions. At the far end of the room, a raised platform held a long, low table where the chief and the elders sat kneeling, their seating arrangement reflecting their hierarchical status within the council.
‘Three on each side, so six elders and the Chief’ looking over each one he zeroed in on their facial expressions noting that more than one was showing at least polite interest while others were completely neutral or indifferent, as if this meeting was unnecessary. ‘Hmm seems doable’ he thought with an internal nod.
Turning his attention back to the centre, Ishi and his father approached the chief, stopping a respectful distance away. Together, they bowed their heads deeply, showing their deference to the council's authority and the seriousness with which they approached the meeting.
As they straightened up, Haku began the introductions. "Honourable Chief Hanzo, esteemed elders, thank you for granting us this audience today. I am here with my son, Ishi, who seeks your permission to advance his training and interactions with Pokémon, based on his achievements and capabilities.”
At his father’s cue, Ishi nodded firmly towards Chief Hanzo, his expression composed despite the nerves fluttering in his stomach. A brief flicker of amusement crossed the chief’s stern features at Ishi's solemn nod, softening the tense atmosphere slightly.
With the introductions complete, the meeting formally began. Chief Hanzo leaned forward, steepling his fingers and addressing Ishi directly. "Ishi, we have heard much about your recent accomplishments from your father. Today, we are here to listen to you. Tell us about what you have learned, and show us what you have created.”
Drawing a deep breath, Ishi reached into his satchel to retrieve his meticulously crafted Pokéball. Stepping forward, he prepared to present not only his creation but also the dedication and passion that had driven him to this point.
This was his moment to shine.
Ishi stood somewhat nervously before the council, his small hands clutching the Pokéball. Chief Hanzo leaned forward, giving him a gentle, encouraging smile to help ease his nervousness.
"So, Ishi," Chief Hanzo began, his voice kind yet clear, "can you tell us about making your Pokéball?”
Ishi nodded eagerly, taking a deep breath, his voice bright with excitement. "I tried lots and lots of times. First ones didn’t work. They were just shells," he explained, holding up the Pokéball slightly so they could see. ‘Arceus I can’t wait to grow up a little more and begin acting my actual mental age instead of this facade’. He cringed at himself but didn’t let his outward appearance change.
"And how did you finally make one that works?" Chief Hanzo asked, genuinely curious about the young boy’s process.
"Mr. Suru helped me," Ishi said, looking towards his Pokéball with pride. "He showed me how to make it right. We worked after school. It was hard, but I did it!" He tried to let himself be viewed as humble to allow the elders see him as a good kid and not a rule or tradition breaker ‘Every little bit helps with a snicker.
The message in the corner of his eye showed his progress with his presentation was so far going well at least.
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Progress:
Chief - 37%
Number of Elders Convinced - 2
Chief Hanzo nodded, impressed by the young boy’s tenacity, and seemingly humble behaviour. "What did you do when it didn’t work the first time? Clearly you kept trying but what was your reason for doing so in such a determined manner? You could have always continued by yourself or given up until you were taught firsthand in the Ninja Academy."
Ishi thought for a moment, then answered, "I kept trying, because my goal is to be as versatile as I can be in all aspects available to me. I think it’s gonna be my ninja path, oh and my friends and parents helped me feel better when I was sad. We played, and then I tried again!”. He had gotten a little serious to show some of the less convinced elders to see him in a different light ‘Jeez it’s like walking a tightrope to much weight one way and you fall off’.
Progress:
Chief - 79%
Number of Elders - 3
The Chief smiled, his eyes twinkling. "That’s very good, Ishi. And does your Pokéball work now?"
"Yes!" Ishi replied enthusiastically. "I can show you if you want!"
"That might not be necessary right now, Ishi," the Chief chuckled, appreciating Ishi's readiness. "I believe you. It’s clear you’ve worked very hard. You should be proud.”
"Thank you, sir!" Ishi said, a big grin spreading across his face.
Chief Hanzo then turned to the other elders, speaking softly but firmly. "It seems young Ishi has indeed shown both dedication and learning. Perhaps it’s time we considered his request more seriously.”
As some of the elders murmured in agreement, Ishi’s dad, Haku, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, proud of his son’s achievement and his courage in front of the council.
The meeting continued with the elders discussing the possibilities, while Ishi waited patiently, his initial nervousness replaced by a growing sense of accomplishment and hope.
The chamber was filled with the low murmur of the council as Chief Hanzo and the village elders deliberated Ishi’s case. Each elder weighed in, their voices blending in a careful discussion of tradition, safety, and the remarkable exception they were considering.
Finally, Chief Hanzo raised his hand, calling for silence. The room settled as all eyes turned to him, awaiting his decision. "It is clear to us that Ishi has shown exceptional dedication and skill for someone so young," he began, his voice resonant with authority and consideration. "However, we must balance this with our duty to ensure safety and uphold our traditions.”
He paused, looking around at the other elders, who nodded their agreement. "Therefore, we will grant Ishi limited access to interact with Pokémon under controlled conditions. We will select a few of our calmer, more even-tempered Pokémon whose trainers will be present at all times. This is a unique arrangement, made in recognition of Ishi’s potential and commitment."
The room filled with a mixed response; most nods of approval, there was one murmur of dissent quickly quelled by looks from more senior members. Chief Hanzo continued, "This decision is made with the understanding that Ishi’s interactions will be closely monitored, and any sign of issues will lead to an immediate reevaluation.”
Confirmed. Quest Completed:
Your Adoring Father Has Put A Lot Of Faith In Your Abilities. Make Sure To Prove Him Right And Gain The Respect And Permission You Desire From The Chief!
Progress:
Chief - 100%
Number of Elders - 5
Rewards: (20 Exp ⨉ 5) + 50 Exp
‘Awsome, gimme all that Exp’ His eyes sparkling as he dismissed the notification. The evil grin may or may not have appeared, if only for a brief moment, before he controlled himself again.
Haku, standing beside Ishi, squeezed his shoulder gently, a silent expression of pride and gratitude towards the council. Ishi himself felt a thrill of excitement - his dream of interacting with Pokémon was finally becoming a reality. He understood the conditions and the responsibility that came with this privilege and was more than ready to agree.
"Yes, sir! Thank you, sir!" Ishi piped up earnestly, his voice filled with joy and determination. "I promise I’ll be very careful and listen to all the sensei’s!"
Chief Hanzo smiled at Ishi’s enthusiasm. "We believe you will, Ishi. And we hope that this experience will continue to guide you towards becoming a responsible and skilled ninja and Pokémon trainer.” ‘You can bet your ass all the Exp shall be mine!’ Ishi thought with a pleasant smile plastered on his face.
As the meeting concluded, Ishi and Haku thanked each elder personally, even the grumpy old coot who had disagreed with the decision, before leaving the chamber. Once outside, Ishi couldn’t contain his excitement any longer. He jumped up and down, beaming up at his father. "I can’t wait to meet them, Dad! I’m going to learn so much!"
Haku laughed, his heart light with joy for his son. "You sure will. Let’s go home and tell your mother the good news."
They walked home under the just, beginning to head on back towards the horizon, sun with the village peaceful but full of motion around them. Ishi’s mind raced with the possibilities ahead, imagining all the Pokémon he would meet and the adventures that lay in store. This was just the beginning, and he was ready for whatever came next.
As they approached their home, Ishi's excitement was palpable; he practically bounced along the path, eager to share the news with his mother. The door had barely closed behind them when he rushed into the kitchen, where Shion was preparing dinner.
“Mum, Mum! Guess what?!” Ishi exclaimed, his face alight with enthusiasm.
Shion looked up from her cooking, her eyes immediately catching the joy in her son's expression. “What is it, Ishi? Tell me!”
“They said yes!” Ishi blurted out, unable to contain his glee. “Chief Hanzo and the elders - they agreed! I can meet and learn about Pokémon under supervision!”
Shion’s face broke into a wide smile, and she wiped her hands on her apron as she moved to embrace Ishi tightly. “Oh, Ishi! That’s wonderful news! I’m so proud of you!”
Haku joined in, wrapping his arms around both of them. “He did great, Shion. Spoke like a true young ninja up there. The Chief was quite impressed.”
The kitchen filled with laughter and excited chatter as Ishi recounted every detail of the meeting, from entering the council chamber to the elders’ deliberations and Chief Hanzo’s final decision. His parents listened intently, sharing his excitement and pride in every word.
“To celebrate,” Shion announced, turning back to the stove with renewed vigour, “we’ll have something special for dinner tonight . Your favourite, Ishi - grilled Magikarp with spicy berry sauce! Though you'll have to wait for now and have a quick lunch and go about whatever you have planned till I have it all ready for this evening.”
Ishi cheered, his earlier anticipation shifting to the upcoming meal and what it represented. As dinner was always a lively affair, filled with discussions about which Pokémon Ishi might get to meet first and how he would handle his interactions. His parents offered advice and shared their own experiences, ensuring Ishi felt supported and prepared for his new adventure.
Ishi Had gotten used to the Idea of eating Pokemon in his years in this world, though at first he’d found it wrong and disgusting after he’d tried his first magikarp and the flavours in his being as divine as they were he had revised his opinion. He still found it weird that there were some regular animals from his old world like chickens, some livestock including sheeps and cows, even pigs, and even normal fish. How they survived in the wild was an absolute mystery for him but meh it didn’t really affect him all that much so he didn’t really question it.
With an afternoon now free after he finished his lunch he headed up to his room to check out his rewards and finally get a feel for his new unlocked aura.
The first thing he did was pull up his status window.
Name:
Will Ranger/Ishi Sukauto
Level:
4
200/800 Exp
Class:
N/A
Sub-Class:
N/A
Strength:
6
Dexterity:
9
Constitution:
4
Aura:
1
Mana:
N/A
Abilities:
Appraisal - Multilingual
Available Points:
14
The boost in his stats when he had unlocked his aura stat had boosted them all by one and the numbers before him brought a smile to his face. He sat down, on the floor in between his bed and desk, in the position he had seen many times in his past life when someone wanted to meditate or cultivate or whatever. ‘Right so I have to clear my mind and breath in through the nose and out through the mouth’ ya see the thing was as he was sitting there he found that he couldn’t keep track on what came next and kept reverting to his normal breathing style and began thinking about how he wasn’t focusing. In conclusion he was an absolute mess at this meditation shit.
Giving up on the exercise he sat at his desk and began writing all he could remember about all his favourite stories and how they had cultivated, he was trying to find one that fit to his specific temperament cause this sitting and doing nothing BS just isn’t cutting it.
After combing through his admittedly fuzzy memories of his past life after close to six years had passed a smile bloomed across his face when he remembered one of his favourite reincarnation stories and how he was able to stand atop the world and was even able to stand up to bandits at the mere age of 3 or something.
The Evil grin was showing on his face as he found a new scroll and wrote down everything with unsurprising accuracy considering he had reread the story so many times. ‘Thank you King Grey you have my sincere thanks’
***
“MWAHAHAHAHAHAHa!!!”
The noise sent shivers up both his parents' spines as they mingled downstairs on their own separate projects. “Our son is up to something again,” Shion said with a sigh, “Uh huh,” was Haku’s only reply. With neither of them making any move to go investigate the uneasy feeling somewhat subsided and they gingerly went back to what they were doing.
***
As the evening wound down, Ishi went to bed full of his favourite meal and dreams about the Pokémon he would soon meet, his heart full of gratitude for his parents’ love and the village elders’ trust. This day, marked by celebration and new beginnings, was one he knew he’d remember forever. But most of all he couldn't wait to wake up tomorrow to try out his theory.