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I had the sudden urge to write this. It's the first draft (technically the second, since I had to check for spelling/grammar errors, but I'm not sure if I corrected them all). I'm really nervous about uploading my fanfic to bmgf, but anyways - any comments, questions, or reviews are welcome.
Note: This story switches between two perspectives. I numbered each perspective as mini-chapters of sorts.
Losing Once, Twice, Not a Third Time
1.
My grip on the pokeball tightened, but my palms were too sweaty. The red and white ball fell from my right hand and bounced on the ground, once, twice, before rolling a few centimeters, making clattering noises along the way.
I swallowed and lowered my head, telling myself I should get used to it.
But no matter how many times I lost, the painful feeling never went away.
Aggron let a low growl - she must be tired. I put on my best smile as I summoned her back.
"I guess we're just really unlucky."
I was glad that she got back in her pokeball before a tear rolled down my face.
It seemed ages ago since I last won. Ever since I stepped into my career on being a professional trainer, I've faced defeat after defeat. I thought I was pretty strong when I beat the champion - but in reality, there were so many other trainers who were powerful beyond my imagination.
At first, I was delighted. There were so many setups, so many abilities to take advantage of, so many items that I haven't heard of... I was busy taking notes and trying out what may be the best for my team. People gave me tips on breeding, and I was able to hatch my first competitive, female Aron. She was beautiful, and polishing her armor became my hobby. She enjoyed training with me, and kept up with the manual. She helped me farm berries, and punched the sandbags eagerly. She grew strong, and she grew up tough.
I was proud of my Aggron, and I thought I might actually win.
How wrong I was.
I rummaged through my bag and pockets, but I only managed to get a few coins. The loss from earlier dealt a huge blow to my wallet for paying prize money. I shouldn't have accepted the battle. Now I'm broke. There were a few Revives in my bag, and I wondered if I should sell them. But no - they were for emergency purposes.
"The Rankings are up!"
People gathered in front of a large screen in the Pokemon Center lobby. Every month, professional trainers would be ranked based on their wins and losses. The more wins you had, the more money you got as a reward. The more losses, the more penalty.
I didn't bother looking for my own rank. I knew I was probably at the very end. Packing my bag, I decided to leave for the next town.
"...his poor pokemon."
A few voices caught my attention.
"Just look at his score..."
"...imagine? Not even one win?"
"...doesn't deserve to be a professional trainer..."
"...what a loser..."
I bit my lower lip and walked out. The evening air was chilly, but cooling. I headed straight on to the route, knowing that I'll have to camp in the middle of the forest when night came.
My tent was shabby, but at least provided a roof over my head. I didn't have money for food, but managed to find a few berries for my pokemon. I called out Aggron to keep me company, and to forget my own hunger. When I sat down and stretched my arms, Aggron spread out her own arms, too. I laughed and made silly faces, which Aggron enjoyed mimicking. I got a ragged cloth from my bag and wiped Aggron's metallic arms. She looked at me with sad eyes.
"Don't let today's battle get to you. I'm sure we'll win next time."
I knew my voice was full of empty encouragement. Aggron probably knew that. She's probably disappointed in me as well. I've bred her, trained her well, taught her the best moves, yet she hasn't gotten a single win.
It wasn't her fault that we lost every battle. It was my fault. I was the one giving orders, and it couldn't be just bad luck that every strategy I planned out failed.
Maybe I shouldn't have been a professional trainer. All I've done was make her experience loss after loss, and despite her potential, she was known as a failure.
Maybe... maybe my pokemon will win with somebody else.
"This one, overall, I would say is wonderfully outstanding in ability!"
When I brought Aggron to the stats judge, he exclaimed how she was impressive. Some of the bystanders also complimented her, which Aggron didn't seem to mind. I left her to enjoy the attention and examined the new machine in the Pokemon Center Lobby.
A youngster placed a Pokeball in one of the sockets. After a few seconds, it disappeared into thin air and a Repeat Ball replaced it.
"Cool! I got a Crobat!"
This was the Wonder Trade machine, a newly developed trading device that enabled random trades. Someone living somewhere on this world would receive your pokemon. In return, you'd get theirs. My hands got sweaty. Maybe somewhere, someone needed an Aggron. Was I really going to do this?
When I came back to check on Aggron, she was still playing with the young kids, letting them climb on her back and slide down her arm. I asked them to leave and checked Aggron's arm. I found a smudge, and wiped it with my sleeve.
"Aggron."
I reached out my arms and she rested her head in my hands. I nudged her with my forehead.
"Be proud of yourself. You're the toughest beauty I've ever seen."
With that, I called her back into her Pokeball and walked up to the Wonder Trade machine. My heart pounded as if it was going to burst, and my hands were shaking badly.
Are you really going to do this, Calem? A voice in my head said.
Are you sure?
I closed my eyes. I reminded myself this was all for Aggron. If I can't provide her a spotlight, then it was only right that someone else enabled her to stand on the stage victorious.
Someone more worthy.
I put her Pokeball on the socket and pressed the confirmation button. For a moment the Pokeball seemed to shake, but it was probably my imagination.
An anonymous Premier Ball was in my hand now, but all I could see was a blurred white ball.
I looked up and saw a nurse handing me a tissue.
I thanked her.
I felt so pathetic.
2.
Brendan scrambled to his feet. His left arm was bleeding, but he could hardly care about it. An Aggron was thrashing about, roaring wildly in the Pokemon Center lobby. People screamed and ran to the exit. Several nurses were trying to restrain the Aggron, but in vain. Eventually, they gave up when one of the nurses got swept by the Aggron's tail, hitting the wall and ending up unconscious across the lobby. The local police arrived and pitched in. All Brendan could do was pick up the broken Pokeball fragments and watch the Aggron get tied to the ground.
He thought he saw tears.
"She's showing signs of confusion and frustration. We might have to keep monitoring her."
Brendan nodded as Professor Birch wiped his forehead. The nurses had insisted on keeping her in an incubator, but Birch suggested on taking her to his lab in Littleroot Town. The Aggron had calmed down somewhat, but the aides kept their distance and watched her wander around the edge of town. Tailows perched on her head spikes, but she didn't seem to care.
"We ran a few tests. There's nothing wrong with her. In fact, she's a very fine pokemon. Top-notch. The Ace Trainer who examined her was astounded. He said he couldn't imagine who'd give her away. You can see the quality of her armor even though she's worn out. Whoever raised her must have taken extreme care."
Brendan moved his bandaged arm uncomfortably and checked his PSS. He had sent a Mightyena on Wonder Trade and received a flawless Aggron in return. When he contacted the trader, a Delinquent shook her head on the phone screen.
"Dude, I know I'm not one to talk but she's crazy." She popped her bubble gum. "That Aggron was one heck of a monster. She nearly trampled on our entire gang. She was so badass, but we want to stay alive."
"Where did you get her?"
"I got her from Wonder Trade. Score - I sent a Magikarp." Her chewing started to sound annoying.
"Do you know who sent her?"
"Nah. Can't remember. Too many trades."
"I see." Brendan clutched the phone. "Thank you for your help."
"No probs. By the way, your Mightyena is lovely."
All the information they had was that Aggron was born into the hands of a trainer named Calem, and her birthplace was in Kalos. Nothing else.
Brendan blended a few rainbow Pokeblocks and placed them near her. Aggron didn't show interest in them.
3.
I sat down in the shade as I threw my watering can aside. The weather was more than warm, and my clothes were drenched from sweat. The berry trees were prospering, and they'd soon bear fruits.
After I sent Aggron on Wonder Trade, I quit being a professional trainer. I didn't have the money, and I didn't have the motivation. Instead, I settled on the berry farm, and worked on growing berries. I had no use for them other than for eating and trading them for other food, so I placed the excess in baskets and put them near the entrance. Anyone was free to take them. Trainers often dropped by for Sitrus berries when they were low on stock, and there were also people who wanted EV berries. A simple thank you was enough. I wasn't bothered when they didn't say anything, either.
One day, someone started to leave money in an empty basket. I had no intention on earning money through berries, but if they felt the berries were worth paying for, I wasn't going to stop them. Eventually, a second basket was needed to gather the coins. I never counted them, because I never needed them.
"Calem."
Shauna showed up and picked up my watering can. I didn't bother getting up. She's gotten taller since the last time I saw her, which was when I went pro. That was already years ago.
"Calem, let's go home."
"Leave me alone." I grumbled.
"Grace said you're invited to dinner. You don't have to talk."
"..."
Shauna nervously looked at me as I stood up.
"Calem - "
"Just dinner, then." I said, taking off my farming gloves. She looked relieved.
The first to greet me was Rhyhorn. When I patted him, a ghostly image of Lairon overlapped with him. I blinked.
"Surprise!"
Trevor and Tierno flew out the front door waving their arms wildly. I didn't have the energy to ask why they were here, so I just nodded at them and went inside.
"Hey, that's cold!" Shauna complained.
"Really cold." Tierno agreed. "You can at least say hello."
Mom, however, flung her arms around me before I could say anything. Her hugs were always strong and warm, full of positive energy. Her hands, rough and scarred from her days of being a Rhyhorn Racer, held me firmly.
She reminded me of Aggron.
"So, why is everyone here?" I finally asked.
"We're here to cheer y - " Tierno started to say, but Trevor kicked him.
"Tierno's leaving for Hoenn." He said over the howls. "We wanted to host a farewell party, and we'd thought we'd invite you." Trevor said with an awkward chuckle that sounded like a cough. He glared at Tierno.
"Now, now, everyone take your seats and let's give a toast!" Shauna shoved me into the nearest chair. I guess I'll just play along for now.
"I read about contests in a magazine once!" Shauna exclaimed over dessert. "They say the shows are amazing - the Halls are practically jampacked with people when Lisia's scheduled to be on stage."
"Who's Lisia?" I asked.
"She's the contest idol. Here, I got a picture of her - "
Shauna pressed a few buttons on her phone and showed me a very blue picture. Lisia was a girl dressed in flashy clothes, beaming at the camera. Her partner was a very fluffy Altaria that looked more like a cloud. It was looking at Lisia with clear delight, and I could tell that it was very close to her. I felt a tug in my chest.
"Tierno wants to do contests because of Lisia." Shauna teased.
"That's not true!" Tierno said, scratching his head. "Well, half-true. Contests are about presenting how fabulous your pokemon are, and Lisia's the best when it comes to Appeals."
"So he's going to Hoenn to participate and learn about Contests. It would be good experience for him for his dancing career, too. Stage performances and all." Trevor said matter-of-factly.
Contests, huh. Later that night I sat by my desk in my room for the first time in years. I remembered the night when I couldn't sleep because of excitement - the night before I received my first starter. Greninja was staying with Professor Sycamore now, and my carefree days seemed to have happened 3000 years ago - I wondered if all those memories were worth smiling over.
Clouds floated by and covered the moon. The moment my room was engulfed in darkness, I felt wide awake. That fluffy Altaria, and Lisia kept coming back to my mind.
And Aggron.
She's doing well, right? She'll do great wherever she is. Aggron is tough, and she's beautiful. People will like her, and she'll be useful in battles. Any trainer will be better than me. She'll be able to start again fresh.
I should leave. If I leave Kalos, maybe I'll be able to leave behind those memories. Maybe I'll be able to start over. Maybe I'll find something worthwhile.
I grabbed my phone and dialed. After a few rings, Tierno answered groggily.
"Yeah?"
"This is Calem. Sorry to wake you up."
"Oh!" I could picture him rubbing his eyes, trying to concentrate. "No problem. What's up?"
"I - " I swallowed. "I want to go to Hoenn."
4.
Brendan nervously tapped his feet, sweat gathering on his crossed arms. He knew Steven Stone was going to visit Birch's lab to discuss upgrades on lab machines as Devon Corp's representative. He remembered that Steven was friends with almost every leading scientist in the region, so he'd personally visit them instead of sending employees. What Brendan forgot was that he was a Steel-type mania, a fanatic, and he'd obviously never miss an opportunity to compliment on Steel-types when encountering one. He felt stupid for not remembering, and he was quite worried that he might anger Aggron with all his fawning.
"Lovely," Steven breathed. "She's lovely. I've never seen such beautiful armor. Even compared to my Aggron, I'd say she's amazing."
"Yes, and will you take a step back." Brendan said, rubbing his face. Aggron was already huffing. "You're annoying her."
"I am not." Steven said. He brought out his own Aggron.
"Now is not the time to - " Brendan began, but it looked like his worries were all for nothing. The Aggrons stood there, doing nothing. One might think they were hosting a staring contest, but they were just showing interest in each other and trying to measure the other's strength by sight. Steven's Aggron was more battle-worn and older, so the other Aggron stepped back naturally in respect. The tension relaxed, and they were soon more interested in digging the ground together.
"I guess they don't call you the Steel-type mania for nothing." Brendan muttered.
"Of course." Steven beamed. "Yours?"
"What? Oh, not mine." Brendan said. "I got her from a trade. She's from Kalos."
"Hmm. Whoever her original trainer is, they've certainly put in a lot of love for her. I can't imagine why they'd give her away, but I'm sure they'd have their reasons."
"Hopefully it's for a good reason." Brendan muttered. An aide approached them to say that the machine was ready to be tested.
"I'll be there in a moment." Steven said cheerfully. "Say, Brendan. You might want to take her to Contests."
"I don't know if that's a good idea. She's been emotionally unstable ever since she's arrived through trade. Going on stage might freak her out."
"From what I can see, she likes getting attention. Getting compliments, and being in the center of the spotlight. She's not irritated because I'm showing attention - it's because you're not giving her the attention she wants. She's lonely - she misses being loved." With that, Steven left to check on the upgrades, while Brendan looked at the two Aggrons, pondering on his words.
He still wasn't sure about entering contests with a newly traded Aggron, but Birch had agreed with Steven. Keeping her isolated for long periods of time wasn't going to be a good thing to do. If she wanted attention, give her attention. A few days later, he was at the Verdanturf Contest Hall to register for a stage performance. The sooner the better.
"We'll start from Normal rank in the Tough category." Brendan said as he signed the entry documents and handed his trainer ID card to the receptionist. He had already changed into his costume - a gift from Lisia the idol, and Aggron seemed to like the metal accessories.
"Cool, right?" He patted Aggron's arm and noticed a smudge of dirt. He got a tissue from the reception desk and rubbed it off. Aggron glanced at him, but then her expression saddened. That didn't go unnoticed by Brendan.
"Well, let's go on stage, and show everyone what you're capable of." He grasped her hand and led her on stage, where the audience would greet them. Brendan had already entered contests before - and he was always the runner-up - but he always felt excited whenever he heard the host announce his name. He hoped this would be a good experience for Aggron, and maybe they could be good friends.
5.
Hoenn was hot.
I thought Kalos had it's hot days, but Hoenn was a tropical region. It was humid, but the skies were very clear.
"We're going to stay in Slateport City for a week. Lisia's special performance takes place the day after tomorrow." Tierno marked his calendar. "We'll have some free time after that."
After checking in the hotel, we split up to tour the city. We agreed to meet at Slateport City's contest hall later, to check out the place first since it'll be difficult to get a good look when Lisia is there. I walked around the market and bought a few bottles of Soda Pop from the beach house when it got too hot to take a stroll. Little tubers were giggling and building sand castles. Some were already splashing in the water. This place felt so peaceful and less hectic despite being a city. I was already starting to like Hoenn.
"Over here!"
Tierno waved in front of the Contest Hall. The last performance of the day had ended, and there was an interview with the winner was ongoing. A guy around my age in a rocker's jacket and metal accessories was answering questions to the interviewer calmly. He even flashed a smile to some of the cheering fans.
"Well well! I guess that concludes our interview for today! We all have high expectations for you and Aggron! The next is Hyper Rank, right, Brendan?"
"Yes. We're aiming for the Master Rank!"
"Oooh, you hear that, Ty? We might be seeing the next new idol soon!"
Some of the girls in the front giggled.
"Thank you for your time, Brendan, and see you in Fallarbor Town next week!" The interviewer shook hands with him and turned to the cameraman to finish up her closing statement. Brendan high-fived with a few fans who stretched out their arms. When Tierno and I stepped aside so he could leave, he smiled and mouthed thanks to us as he left.
"He's so cool!" Tierno said as he danced in excitement, and almost immediately a few girls nearby expressed agreement and started jabbering on his stage performance and how cool his Aggron was.
"I used to think Aggron were just big and scary creatures, but they're in fact really fascinating!"
"So tough, so amazing!" They said in a dreamy voice.
I tried to stop myself from smirking. I knew all too well how awesome Aggrons were. I'd like to talk to that Brendan guy someday. Maybe I'll go see his stage performance while I'm in Hoenn.
6.
Aggron was more amazing than Brendan had thought. She was the star of the entire show on the day she performed in Normal Rank. The audience were excited at the new contest rookie, and Aggron soon became the talk of the town. Wally had greeted them backstage and congratulated them with starry eyes and went on to say how Brendan had inspired him. He timidly approached Aggron, and soon got friendly with her. Aggron had been rather surprised but pleased with herself. Brendan was also satisfied with how the combos worked out and thanked her for following his strategy.
He continued on to the Super Rank in Slateport City. As soon as he registered, a crowd had already formed. The performance was a great success. The final Head Smash blew everyone away. It didn't hurt that Brendan used some polishing wax to make her armor glow brighter. The mob was creating chaos that Brendan had to call her back into her Luxury Ball - which he had bought in place of the broken Pokeball - for the interview.
He thought about moving to Fallarbor Town to get some early practice for the Hyper Rank, but he also wanted to stay and see Lisia's performance.
"Nah, you shouldn't exhaust yourself Brendan." Wally advised through video call. "They're going to air her performance on TV anyways - you're going to be swept in the crowd if you go see her in the Contest Hall and you could get seriously injured."
Brendan decided to listen to Wally. He was right. Besides, watching from TV would allow Aggron to also watch the performance.
On his way leaving Slateport City, he saw two guys talking about Lisia's performance. One of them was happily hopping rhythmically.
"Ah, it's him!"
One of them spotted Brendan and waved. Brendan waved back, then he hopped on his bike and left the city.
Lisia called him after her performance ended.
"I'll be participating in the Hyper Rank as well!" She chirped. "We can be on stage together!"
"That sounds exciting." Brendan washed his polishing cloth and started scrubbing Aggron outside the Pokemon Center. He put the phone on speaker mode and continued working.
"I can't wait to see your Aggron! I hear that she's definitely something! I look forward to seeing her in person!"
"You won't be disappointed." He replied. Aggron was looking at the volcano not far from the town, lost in thought.
"See you soon!" Click.
Brendan was busily scrubbing her back armor plates when he noticed water drops on the ground. He checked to see if he hadn't squeezed the water out of the cloth, but in fact it was Aggron crying.
He was bewildered, but he didn't know how to comfort her when he didn't know why she was crying. Her sad roar only earned a confused nurse to show up with a first-aid kit. Brendan could only wipe her tears, wondering what the matter was. He remembered her sad eyes when he first wiped the smudge of dirt off her.
7.
Lisia's performance had left me dizzy. I could understand why she was called the contest idol, but her performance was much too flashy. Tierno was practically giddy. He even stubbornly stayed behind for two hours to get an autographed photograph from her.
"Thank you for enjoying our stage! We love you!" Lisia beamed at the crowd with her Altaria as she left. Tierno was with the people who wildly screamed.
He made notes on possible moves he could use for performing himself, but I was more interested in the upcoming Hyper Rank. They say Lisia was participating in that one, but there was also going to be Brendan and his Aggron. I was looking forward to that.
It took us a few days to get to Fallarbor Town, but we managed to arrive on the day before the contest. On the very day, We went early in the afternoon to line up, but there was already a long line. Lisia fans, Brendan fans, contest fans in general...everyone was excited.
When the contest began, I felt my hands get sweaty. Standing in the crowd, looking at the stage never felt made me this nervous.
After a flashy entrance of Lisia and her Altaria mega evolving, the host announced the last contestant.
"The rookies climbing their way to the top! Brendan and Aggron!"
I waited for this moment.
No, I didn't.
I was about to clap, but my hands froze midair.
My entire body just froze.
8.
Aggron had done well during the early round of appeals. Brendan looked at the screen showing the scores, and he knew that if he predicted the last move correctly, he'd be able to earn enough points to get ahead of Lisia.
When it was time for Aggron's final appearance, she gave a hearty roar and looked at the crowd.
"Let's go for Head Smash!" Brendan ordered dramatically. He expected a tremor from her attack, but there was nothing.
Aggron was standing there, staring at the crowd. He had never seen her face look so... shocked, and elated.
"Aggron? Aggron?" Brendan approached her gently. "What's the matter?"
He then looked at the crowd, which started to murmur among themselves. Whispers that didn't bother to keep quiet could be heard.
"What is she doing?"
"Stage fright?"
"No, that can't be it."
"Is she looking for something?"
Or rather... is she looking at someone?
"Brendan!" Lisia called behind him as he climbed down from the stage. He glanced back at Aggron and started pushing people out of the way of her view slowly, one by one. The crowd thinned, trying to find the source that made Aggron stop performing.
He found two guys, one of them nervously tugging at the other, who was doing nothing but staring right back at Aggron. Brendan vaguely remembered them from somewhere as Contest fans, but he didn't know who they were, or why they had such a huge influence on Aggron to make her stop.
"Who are you?" Brendan asked. The whole contest hall went quiet. Even the usually cheerful and talkative Lisia fell silent.
"Uhm, um.. we're just - " the nervous guy twiddled his thumbs. The other guy, however, sniffed and pressed down his hat.
"...I'm sorry. I'll leave." Then he walked straight to the exit. Brendan heard a loud cry and the ground shook as Aggron jumped down from the stage. A few people lost balance and fell over. Aggron was trying to following that person, very desperately, but she wasn't fast enough.
"You! Wait up!"
Several cameras flashed as Brendan called back Aggron in her ball and ran after the guy. Lisia said something to the host and followed him as well.
"Brendan! Who was that guy?"
"I don't know!"
The guy was already gone. Lisia sent Altaria flying to search the area and he came back with his fluffy wings covered in dust. Brendan immediately went off to Route 113. There, he found the guy walking through the volcanic ashes.
"Stop right there!"
Brendan caught up with him and threw Aggron's Luxury Ball. She appeared right in front of the guy, sending dusty ash flying everywhere.
"I...I'm sorry I ruined your performance." He said quietly.
"No. I don't want an apology." Brendan said firmly. "Tell me who you are."
"...my name is Calem."
"You're Calem...?"
He reached out both arms. Aggron placed her head in his hands as if they've done this for years.
Which may be exactly so.
"So you're the original trainer." Brendan nodded. There was something odd about the two. Aggron was clearly happy to see him, but Calem was looking uncomfortable.
"I see you've kept her well. She looked amazing on stage. I'm glad to see her confident, and proud." He rubbed Aggron's armor with his sleeve.
Two more people arrived on the scene. Tierno and Lisia had caught up with them.
"Thank you." Calem patted Aggron and started to leave.
"Why did you run away?" Brendan asked. Calem tensed up and froze on the spot.
"Wha - what do you mean?"
"Why did you run away from the contest hall? You could have just said you were her previous trainer, and we could have announced a short intermission to sort things out."
"On hindsight, I guess that might have been the right thing to do, but..." Calem broke off mid-sentence.
"But?"
"I was just... I didn't know what to do when she saw me... I..."
"Yes, I understand your embarrassment, but you ran away even when Aggron was following you."
"I... well..."
It dawned on Brendan. He couldn't admit he was her previous trainer.
He ran away.
He didn't want to admit he was her trainer.
"You gave up on her." He said coldly.
Calem looked at Brendan in horror.
"No! I didn't - "
"No? Then tell me - tell her why you traded her away. Why did she end up here in Hoenn all the way from Kalos? Why did you run away from her?"
"I... I wanted her to have a better trainer than me!" Calem stammered. "I - I can't - I couldn't. Damn it. I wanted her to train under a better trainer because I was the worst! I know this isn't something to brag about, but I never won any battles ever since I went pro and I became broke - "
Brendan didn't know what to say, but he sure didn't like what he was listening to. So Calem wanted Aggron to train in a better environment because he couldn't provide one? He gave away Aggron to a complete stranger, who went through the hands of other strangers, because he wanted her to have a better trainer? He ran away from Aggron despite how desperately she followed him?
Despite how much she's missed him?
Yes.
"Pathetic." Brendan said. He walked straight up and punched Calem, who tripped and fell on his back straight into the pile of ashes.
"Brendan, don't!" Lisia screamed.
"You know what? You're a loser."
Only Aggron's cries could be heard through the silence.
9.
My face felt numb, but I was half-glad Brendan punched me.
"Aggron, we're leaving."
Brendan said, but Aggron didn't move.
"Aggron, let's go."
She didn't follow him. When I stood up, her eyes met mine. I turned away from her.
"Go with him." I said, but she didn't. Instead, she nudged my head with her fingertips.
"Aggron, go with Brendan - you know what it's like to be with me." I started to leave. I didn't look at anyone, and just walked across Route 113. Only the footsteps of Tierno remained behind me, and when the road of ashes ended, I looked back.
Tierno was standing with an umbrella over his head, his expression unreadable. The rest of the background was completely invisible from the falling ashes.
"We should go." I said quietly.
Aggron was doing well. Brendan had introduced her to contests, a whole new career. She was the next contest star, and I felt proud of her.
I wouldn't do any good if I stayed. When I told Tierno I'd go back to Kalos, he wasn't surprised.
"I see. But I do want you to come with Lilycove with me. It's an amazing place - at least tour the city. It would be a real shame if you didn't see the harbor."
I weighed my options and agreed to stay until his business in Lilycove was over. Then Tierno would start participating in Contests, and I'd go back to Kalos.
The day before we arrived in Lilycove, we were invited to stay in the Safari Zone for the night. The warden was kind enough to provide us a room.
But I couldn't sleep. Leaving Tierno's snores behind, I walked outside. The Safari Zone was close to the ocean - there was a thick mist in the distance. Nearby, I found a group of people boarding on a small boat.
"Where are you going?" I asked.
"Mt. Pyre." One of them said grimly.
"Can I go with you?"
"Hop in."
The boat was wobbly, but it made across the water just fine. Through the mist, a large mountain appeared in the middle of the sea. I got off and followed the people inside, but they didn't move in groups. Instead, some of them went and placed cans of water and food in front of square rocks while some of them went upstairs.
This was the Pokemon cemetery of Hoenn. It felt eerie, but I wasn't scared. I climbed up the stairs - what would I see at the top?
On the way, I met a boy who was sniffling in front of a tombstone. He said his best friend had liked Soda Pops. I had a few left from the bundle I bought in Slateport market. When I offered him one, he thanked me.
To Delcatty. To Marill. To Roserade. To Shuppet (Ghost-types could die...?) I read the name of the tombstones as I walked to the top. There was a door leading outside. The night air was chilly, but I didn't mind.
An elderly person was praying at the large altar near the peak of Mt. Pyre. But arriving close, it wasn't an elderly person, but a young man with silver hair. He noticed me and stepped down.
"Just make sure to keep yourself from stepping over the line." He said. There was a line drawn on the ground, preventing anyone from getting too close to the altar. There were two brightly colored orbs.
"What are those?" I asked.
"The Red and Blue Orbs, as you can see, house the power of ancient evolution. It's said they watch over Hoenn with all the spirits." He answered.
"What happens if I step over the line?"
"I'm afraid you'll be arrested on the spot and get detained in jail." He said humorlessly. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."
"Thanks for the useful advice." I muttered.
The man was about to leave, but stopped and looked at me up and down.
"Say... were you at the Fallarbor Contest Hall?" He asked.
I winced.
"Yeah."
"I thought so. So it was you that Brendan went after."
"How do you know?" My voice rose sharply.
"Aggrons are very prideful when it comes to their abilities, and if it's not a trainer they acknowledge, they won't even look in that direction." The man said quietly, but firmly. "I know Brendan's new Aggron, and if she refused to take an order from him because of you, you're not just any trainer."
This guy actually deduced that much? I didn't even feel the need to get defensive.
"Just so you know," this time he really walked away. "Aggrons have quite the memory. You might want to complete any unfinished business with her."
I looked up at the sky instead. Me, a loser, who was also the previous trainer of the now famous Aggron. How ironic.
I came to Hoenn to refresh myself, but I had to face my most painful memory. Even if I went back, things would be the same. I'd still be a loser.
It was then I realized.
I never said goodbye.
10.
Reporters could be rather too persistant at times. Brendan was sick of them asking questions about the "Mystery Guy" who interrupted the performance. He left for his Secret Base on Route 120. The heavy rain shielded him from anyone approaching him with the same questions.
Wally arrived later to deliver a message from Lisia. She had taken care of the situation and the press wasn't going to bother him anymore.
"That's a relief." Brendan replied bitterly.
"Where are you going to go next?" Wally asked, shaking water from his hair. "If you want to re-do Hyper Rank, how about going to Lilycove? I'd say you should just go and win both Hyper and Master Ranks there."
"Thanks for the option, but I want some time to think things over."
"I..." Wally began. "I kinda understand him. You know, Calem. Lisia told me what happened."
Brendan didn't answer.
"I can't say that he's done the right thing, but I'm not going to say he's wrong, either. It was his choice that he made for Aggron."
Brendan remembered the first day he met her. Angry, hurt, and confused. Some choice that was.
"But why did Aggron stop taking orders from you during the contest?" Wally asked.
"You heard the whole story, Wally," Brendan said, exasperated. "He appeared, and she got distracted. Simple."
"I know. Traded pokemon do recognize their previous owners, but she still should have acted when you ordered an attack. She's technically yours - she shouldn't have tried to follow him."
"What do you mean?"
"I think," Wally looked out the Base into the darkness. "Her relationship with Calem isn't finished."
"So are you saying she still thinks Calem is her rightful trainer?" Brendan's mind floated back to route 113. What had been so odd about the two?
"Could be. I can't guarantee anything - it's just a thought."
11.
Tierno had been worried sick when he discovered I had left to explore on my own during the night. The next boat ride back was scheduled early in the morning, so I had spent the whole night in the cemetery. I barely slept.
"I thought you went back to Kalos on your own!" He said tearfully.
"Sorry. I promise I won't wander off without telling you." I forced a smile. I looked around for the guy with silver hair, but it seems he had a different method to leave Mt. Pyre.
Lilycove was indeed a beautiful harbor city. The department store and art museum stood tall, dazzling under the bright sun on the highest land, and at the far end, there was a lighthouse. The Contest Hall here was larger than the other halls I've been to. All the buildings in Lilycove was big. It must be quite a view from the sea. The beaches were large enough for undisturbed pokemon battles.
"Are you sure you want to go back to Kalos?" Tierno asked.
"There's nothing I can do in Hoenn."
"Then what are you going to do in Kalos?"
"I'll go back to berry farming. Maybe I'll actually try and make a living out of it." I said without enthusiasm.
"Are you really going to quit being a trainer?"
"Well," I adjusted my hat. The sea breeze was strong. "I'm a loser."
"But being a professional trainer was your dream! You always wanted to be a battler - "
"Tierno, sometimes dreams don't work the way you want." I tried not to raise my voice. "I lost every battle. I lost all my money. I disappointed myself, and I disappointed Aggron."
"Are you sure Aggron's really disappointed in you, though?" A few Wingulls were flying in the air smoothly. Tierno got his notebook and drew some patterns.
"Well? She's the best Aggron I've bred. She's followed the hard training manual and did her best in every battle, and if I couldn't help her win, then - "
"I mean... she looked so happy on stage, and she was enjoying being in the spotlight." Tierno said thoughtfully. "Maybe she doesn't really care if she wins battles or not. Maybe she just battled since she cares about you, and she wanted you to be happy?"
That last part sunk in. My mouth went dry.
Was I being selfish?
"I have to see her again." I said quietly. I wiped my sweaty hands on my pants as I headed to the Pokemon Center.
"I'm not sure if that's a good idea - " Tierno called as he tried to catch up. Shoving his notes in his bag, he glanced around. "No offense, but last time - "
"I know what happened last time, thank you very much." I walked up to one of the phones. "But I have to confirm a few things... and I have something important to say to her. Something I should have told her."
"If you insist." Tierno shrugged. I picked up the receiver and dialed.
The moment the screen connected, I put on my best smile.
"Hey, Professor Sycamore. It's me, Calem."
12.
Brendan closed his eyes and counted to ten. He couldn't focus - there were too many people outside. Wally looked more frightened than nervous. Lisia was adding the finishing touches to Altaria's feathers for extra fluffiness.
"If you're not up for it, you can always schedule another contest." She said gently.
"I did give you the option of going through Hyper Rank and Master Rank at Lilycove, but not on the same day!" Wally wailed as if everything was his fault. Brendan had completed the Hyper Rank in the morning, and registered for the Master Rank in the evening. He healed Aggron and double-checked if she was spotlessly clean. He was exhausted, but he wanted to get over with it as soon as possible.
"Well, it's almost showtime." She sang. "Shall we leave?"
Brendan thought he was going deaf - the Master Rank was always the most popular, and they were only hosted in Lilycove City because no other Contest Halls could seat all the fans swarming inside the hall. The security guards had set up iron gates to prevent fans from getting too close with the coordinators. There were so many people waving, yelling encouragement, and some were pushing and getting on their tiptoes to see better.
"Brendan!"
Among the fans, Brendan spotted Calem and his friend, and was surprised that the guy had the nerve to appear again before him.
"I have something to say to her!" He yelled.
Calem seemed to have changed ever since they had last met. He wasn't looking apologetic or avoiding eye contact. Maybe he'll hear him out for the last time. Brendan held up his hand as he walked inside. They'll meet up after the show.
13.
Lisia ended up winning the Master Rank contest, but Brendan was still amazing. Aggron was the runner-up, yet she was even more popular than before. People complimented her appeals, and expressed high expectations in the future.
I met Brendan backstage where he was talking to his friends.
"Oh! Is that him?" A green haired kid asked curiously.
"Yeah." Brendan said indifferently. "Can you wait a bit until people are gone?"
I said I'd wait. I told Tierno that I'd go back to Kalos as soon as I finished my own business with Brendan. Tierno looked somewhat disappointed, but understood my decision and bid me good luck. I shook hands with him as he left and wished him the best. He'll be starting a new career in Hoenn.
It took a long time before the Contest Hall was nearly deserted. When Brendan appeared, I led him to the beach of Lilycove, which was just as deserted, yet full of empty space.
"So, what do you want?" He asked.
I held up my Pokeball.
"Battle me."
Brendan's expression turned serious as he grabbed for his own Pokeball.
I sent out Greninja as a Swampert appeared on the other side. I had asked Professor Sycamore to send me my old team members - the ones that gave me my dream of becoming a professional battler ever since I started my journey years ago. They had traveled with me for the longest time, and fought all the gym battles with me before I went pro. They aided me up to the champion battle, where I finally passed the test. I knew them best, and they knew me better. They weren't competitively built as Aggron, but I had battled with them for years.
I wanted to see for myself what I was worth.
I wanted to remember what the old me would do.
I wanted to tell Aggron all about it.
When Swampert fainted, Brendan sent out Aggron. Her eyes widened at the sight of me, and she hesitated when Brendan gave an order.
"Don't hold back!" I said. Aggron swept her body around for an Iron Tail, unsure what this was all about. She sent Hawlucha colliding to the ground, fainting him. I was already down to my last pokemon. Doublade, which I never evolved because I couldn't afford a Dusk Stone.
"Sacred Sword!"
That almost KO'd Aggron, but she held on. Seeing that I was determined, she gave her battle roar as she used an Earthquake attack. Doublade missed the next turn. Another Earthquake hit.
I was completely defeated.
But I didn't feel any disappointment. It was a loss to be expected... and a loss that actually felt good for a turn.
"It seems that they're your best friends. You raised them well." Brendan said as he gave Aggron a Sitrus Berry. "I take back what I said - maybe you're not really a loser."
"No. I am." I approached them. "Aggron..."
I reached out my arms, but she only gazed at me with sad eyes.
"I'm sorry."
I should have told you I was trading you away.
I should have known what you wanted.
Did you hate battling? Or did you prefer something else?
"Aggron does her best where she's needed." Brendan said. "She never complains, and she doesn't stop trying."
This time, I didn't cry. I let the words do the work. I didn't turn away.
I should have said goodbye.
"You never said goodbye to her?" Brendan sighed. "So that was the problem."
"What...?"
Brendan held out a Luxury Ball.
"Here. Take her back."
"No - I can't - you got her from trade - " I held up my hand to refuse.
"Aggron probably never thought she was sent away." Brendan said without a smile. "You didn't tell her she was going to be traded, and you didn't say goodbye. It wasn't a farewell to her."
I looked at the Luxury Ball and back at Aggron.
I knew for once my decision would be correct.
"Then this is goodbye."
I took off my hat and reached out to her once more.
"Stay with Brendan. Be proud of yourself. You're the toughest beauty I've ever seen. I won't come back to see you again, and I won't be here to polish your armor."
Slowly, Aggron placed her head on my hands. I nudged her with my forehead for the last time.
"But I will always be rooting for you. You'll be fine without me."
Aggron didn't look sad anymore, but concerned.
"So what are you going to do when you're back in Kalos?" Brendan asked. "Are you really quitting?"
"I'll decide what to do when I get there." I put my hat back on. "This is farewell."
"Hey." Brendan called. "Are you sure you're not having second thoughts?"
I left the two behind and walked across the beach. The sea breeze was strong, but it didn't feel cold.
Maybe I'll make a living out of my berry farm.
Or maybe... I'll go back and work as a professional trainer again.
I'll probably lose.
I'm pathetic.
I'm a loser.
But I won't lose myself again.
Note: This story switches between two perspectives. I numbered each perspective as mini-chapters of sorts.
Losing Once, Twice, Not a Third Time
1.
My grip on the pokeball tightened, but my palms were too sweaty. The red and white ball fell from my right hand and bounced on the ground, once, twice, before rolling a few centimeters, making clattering noises along the way.
I swallowed and lowered my head, telling myself I should get used to it.
But no matter how many times I lost, the painful feeling never went away.
Aggron let a low growl - she must be tired. I put on my best smile as I summoned her back.
"I guess we're just really unlucky."
I was glad that she got back in her pokeball before a tear rolled down my face.
It seemed ages ago since I last won. Ever since I stepped into my career on being a professional trainer, I've faced defeat after defeat. I thought I was pretty strong when I beat the champion - but in reality, there were so many other trainers who were powerful beyond my imagination.
At first, I was delighted. There were so many setups, so many abilities to take advantage of, so many items that I haven't heard of... I was busy taking notes and trying out what may be the best for my team. People gave me tips on breeding, and I was able to hatch my first competitive, female Aron. She was beautiful, and polishing her armor became my hobby. She enjoyed training with me, and kept up with the manual. She helped me farm berries, and punched the sandbags eagerly. She grew strong, and she grew up tough.
I was proud of my Aggron, and I thought I might actually win.
How wrong I was.
I rummaged through my bag and pockets, but I only managed to get a few coins. The loss from earlier dealt a huge blow to my wallet for paying prize money. I shouldn't have accepted the battle. Now I'm broke. There were a few Revives in my bag, and I wondered if I should sell them. But no - they were for emergency purposes.
"The Rankings are up!"
People gathered in front of a large screen in the Pokemon Center lobby. Every month, professional trainers would be ranked based on their wins and losses. The more wins you had, the more money you got as a reward. The more losses, the more penalty.
I didn't bother looking for my own rank. I knew I was probably at the very end. Packing my bag, I decided to leave for the next town.
"...his poor pokemon."
A few voices caught my attention.
"Just look at his score..."
"...imagine? Not even one win?"
"...doesn't deserve to be a professional trainer..."
"...what a loser..."
I bit my lower lip and walked out. The evening air was chilly, but cooling. I headed straight on to the route, knowing that I'll have to camp in the middle of the forest when night came.
My tent was shabby, but at least provided a roof over my head. I didn't have money for food, but managed to find a few berries for my pokemon. I called out Aggron to keep me company, and to forget my own hunger. When I sat down and stretched my arms, Aggron spread out her own arms, too. I laughed and made silly faces, which Aggron enjoyed mimicking. I got a ragged cloth from my bag and wiped Aggron's metallic arms. She looked at me with sad eyes.
"Don't let today's battle get to you. I'm sure we'll win next time."
I knew my voice was full of empty encouragement. Aggron probably knew that. She's probably disappointed in me as well. I've bred her, trained her well, taught her the best moves, yet she hasn't gotten a single win.
It wasn't her fault that we lost every battle. It was my fault. I was the one giving orders, and it couldn't be just bad luck that every strategy I planned out failed.
Maybe I shouldn't have been a professional trainer. All I've done was make her experience loss after loss, and despite her potential, she was known as a failure.
Maybe... maybe my pokemon will win with somebody else.
"This one, overall, I would say is wonderfully outstanding in ability!"
When I brought Aggron to the stats judge, he exclaimed how she was impressive. Some of the bystanders also complimented her, which Aggron didn't seem to mind. I left her to enjoy the attention and examined the new machine in the Pokemon Center Lobby.
A youngster placed a Pokeball in one of the sockets. After a few seconds, it disappeared into thin air and a Repeat Ball replaced it.
"Cool! I got a Crobat!"
This was the Wonder Trade machine, a newly developed trading device that enabled random trades. Someone living somewhere on this world would receive your pokemon. In return, you'd get theirs. My hands got sweaty. Maybe somewhere, someone needed an Aggron. Was I really going to do this?
When I came back to check on Aggron, she was still playing with the young kids, letting them climb on her back and slide down her arm. I asked them to leave and checked Aggron's arm. I found a smudge, and wiped it with my sleeve.
"Aggron."
I reached out my arms and she rested her head in my hands. I nudged her with my forehead.
"Be proud of yourself. You're the toughest beauty I've ever seen."
With that, I called her back into her Pokeball and walked up to the Wonder Trade machine. My heart pounded as if it was going to burst, and my hands were shaking badly.
Are you really going to do this, Calem? A voice in my head said.
Are you sure?
I closed my eyes. I reminded myself this was all for Aggron. If I can't provide her a spotlight, then it was only right that someone else enabled her to stand on the stage victorious.
Someone more worthy.
I put her Pokeball on the socket and pressed the confirmation button. For a moment the Pokeball seemed to shake, but it was probably my imagination.
An anonymous Premier Ball was in my hand now, but all I could see was a blurred white ball.
I looked up and saw a nurse handing me a tissue.
I thanked her.
I felt so pathetic.
2.
Brendan scrambled to his feet. His left arm was bleeding, but he could hardly care about it. An Aggron was thrashing about, roaring wildly in the Pokemon Center lobby. People screamed and ran to the exit. Several nurses were trying to restrain the Aggron, but in vain. Eventually, they gave up when one of the nurses got swept by the Aggron's tail, hitting the wall and ending up unconscious across the lobby. The local police arrived and pitched in. All Brendan could do was pick up the broken Pokeball fragments and watch the Aggron get tied to the ground.
He thought he saw tears.
"She's showing signs of confusion and frustration. We might have to keep monitoring her."
Brendan nodded as Professor Birch wiped his forehead. The nurses had insisted on keeping her in an incubator, but Birch suggested on taking her to his lab in Littleroot Town. The Aggron had calmed down somewhat, but the aides kept their distance and watched her wander around the edge of town. Tailows perched on her head spikes, but she didn't seem to care.
"We ran a few tests. There's nothing wrong with her. In fact, she's a very fine pokemon. Top-notch. The Ace Trainer who examined her was astounded. He said he couldn't imagine who'd give her away. You can see the quality of her armor even though she's worn out. Whoever raised her must have taken extreme care."
Brendan moved his bandaged arm uncomfortably and checked his PSS. He had sent a Mightyena on Wonder Trade and received a flawless Aggron in return. When he contacted the trader, a Delinquent shook her head on the phone screen.
"Dude, I know I'm not one to talk but she's crazy." She popped her bubble gum. "That Aggron was one heck of a monster. She nearly trampled on our entire gang. She was so badass, but we want to stay alive."
"Where did you get her?"
"I got her from Wonder Trade. Score - I sent a Magikarp." Her chewing started to sound annoying.
"Do you know who sent her?"
"Nah. Can't remember. Too many trades."
"I see." Brendan clutched the phone. "Thank you for your help."
"No probs. By the way, your Mightyena is lovely."
All the information they had was that Aggron was born into the hands of a trainer named Calem, and her birthplace was in Kalos. Nothing else.
Brendan blended a few rainbow Pokeblocks and placed them near her. Aggron didn't show interest in them.
3.
I sat down in the shade as I threw my watering can aside. The weather was more than warm, and my clothes were drenched from sweat. The berry trees were prospering, and they'd soon bear fruits.
After I sent Aggron on Wonder Trade, I quit being a professional trainer. I didn't have the money, and I didn't have the motivation. Instead, I settled on the berry farm, and worked on growing berries. I had no use for them other than for eating and trading them for other food, so I placed the excess in baskets and put them near the entrance. Anyone was free to take them. Trainers often dropped by for Sitrus berries when they were low on stock, and there were also people who wanted EV berries. A simple thank you was enough. I wasn't bothered when they didn't say anything, either.
One day, someone started to leave money in an empty basket. I had no intention on earning money through berries, but if they felt the berries were worth paying for, I wasn't going to stop them. Eventually, a second basket was needed to gather the coins. I never counted them, because I never needed them.
"Calem."
Shauna showed up and picked up my watering can. I didn't bother getting up. She's gotten taller since the last time I saw her, which was when I went pro. That was already years ago.
"Calem, let's go home."
"Leave me alone." I grumbled.
"Grace said you're invited to dinner. You don't have to talk."
"..."
Shauna nervously looked at me as I stood up.
"Calem - "
"Just dinner, then." I said, taking off my farming gloves. She looked relieved.
The first to greet me was Rhyhorn. When I patted him, a ghostly image of Lairon overlapped with him. I blinked.
"Surprise!"
Trevor and Tierno flew out the front door waving their arms wildly. I didn't have the energy to ask why they were here, so I just nodded at them and went inside.
"Hey, that's cold!" Shauna complained.
"Really cold." Tierno agreed. "You can at least say hello."
Mom, however, flung her arms around me before I could say anything. Her hugs were always strong and warm, full of positive energy. Her hands, rough and scarred from her days of being a Rhyhorn Racer, held me firmly.
She reminded me of Aggron.
"So, why is everyone here?" I finally asked.
"We're here to cheer y - " Tierno started to say, but Trevor kicked him.
"Tierno's leaving for Hoenn." He said over the howls. "We wanted to host a farewell party, and we'd thought we'd invite you." Trevor said with an awkward chuckle that sounded like a cough. He glared at Tierno.
"Now, now, everyone take your seats and let's give a toast!" Shauna shoved me into the nearest chair. I guess I'll just play along for now.
"I read about contests in a magazine once!" Shauna exclaimed over dessert. "They say the shows are amazing - the Halls are practically jampacked with people when Lisia's scheduled to be on stage."
"Who's Lisia?" I asked.
"She's the contest idol. Here, I got a picture of her - "
Shauna pressed a few buttons on her phone and showed me a very blue picture. Lisia was a girl dressed in flashy clothes, beaming at the camera. Her partner was a very fluffy Altaria that looked more like a cloud. It was looking at Lisia with clear delight, and I could tell that it was very close to her. I felt a tug in my chest.
"Tierno wants to do contests because of Lisia." Shauna teased.
"That's not true!" Tierno said, scratching his head. "Well, half-true. Contests are about presenting how fabulous your pokemon are, and Lisia's the best when it comes to Appeals."
"So he's going to Hoenn to participate and learn about Contests. It would be good experience for him for his dancing career, too. Stage performances and all." Trevor said matter-of-factly.
Contests, huh. Later that night I sat by my desk in my room for the first time in years. I remembered the night when I couldn't sleep because of excitement - the night before I received my first starter. Greninja was staying with Professor Sycamore now, and my carefree days seemed to have happened 3000 years ago - I wondered if all those memories were worth smiling over.
Clouds floated by and covered the moon. The moment my room was engulfed in darkness, I felt wide awake. That fluffy Altaria, and Lisia kept coming back to my mind.
And Aggron.
She's doing well, right? She'll do great wherever she is. Aggron is tough, and she's beautiful. People will like her, and she'll be useful in battles. Any trainer will be better than me. She'll be able to start again fresh.
I should leave. If I leave Kalos, maybe I'll be able to leave behind those memories. Maybe I'll be able to start over. Maybe I'll find something worthwhile.
I grabbed my phone and dialed. After a few rings, Tierno answered groggily.
"Yeah?"
"This is Calem. Sorry to wake you up."
"Oh!" I could picture him rubbing his eyes, trying to concentrate. "No problem. What's up?"
"I - " I swallowed. "I want to go to Hoenn."
4.
Brendan nervously tapped his feet, sweat gathering on his crossed arms. He knew Steven Stone was going to visit Birch's lab to discuss upgrades on lab machines as Devon Corp's representative. He remembered that Steven was friends with almost every leading scientist in the region, so he'd personally visit them instead of sending employees. What Brendan forgot was that he was a Steel-type mania, a fanatic, and he'd obviously never miss an opportunity to compliment on Steel-types when encountering one. He felt stupid for not remembering, and he was quite worried that he might anger Aggron with all his fawning.
"Lovely," Steven breathed. "She's lovely. I've never seen such beautiful armor. Even compared to my Aggron, I'd say she's amazing."
"Yes, and will you take a step back." Brendan said, rubbing his face. Aggron was already huffing. "You're annoying her."
"I am not." Steven said. He brought out his own Aggron.
"Now is not the time to - " Brendan began, but it looked like his worries were all for nothing. The Aggrons stood there, doing nothing. One might think they were hosting a staring contest, but they were just showing interest in each other and trying to measure the other's strength by sight. Steven's Aggron was more battle-worn and older, so the other Aggron stepped back naturally in respect. The tension relaxed, and they were soon more interested in digging the ground together.
"I guess they don't call you the Steel-type mania for nothing." Brendan muttered.
"Of course." Steven beamed. "Yours?"
"What? Oh, not mine." Brendan said. "I got her from a trade. She's from Kalos."
"Hmm. Whoever her original trainer is, they've certainly put in a lot of love for her. I can't imagine why they'd give her away, but I'm sure they'd have their reasons."
"Hopefully it's for a good reason." Brendan muttered. An aide approached them to say that the machine was ready to be tested.
"I'll be there in a moment." Steven said cheerfully. "Say, Brendan. You might want to take her to Contests."
"I don't know if that's a good idea. She's been emotionally unstable ever since she's arrived through trade. Going on stage might freak her out."
"From what I can see, she likes getting attention. Getting compliments, and being in the center of the spotlight. She's not irritated because I'm showing attention - it's because you're not giving her the attention she wants. She's lonely - she misses being loved." With that, Steven left to check on the upgrades, while Brendan looked at the two Aggrons, pondering on his words.
He still wasn't sure about entering contests with a newly traded Aggron, but Birch had agreed with Steven. Keeping her isolated for long periods of time wasn't going to be a good thing to do. If she wanted attention, give her attention. A few days later, he was at the Verdanturf Contest Hall to register for a stage performance. The sooner the better.
"We'll start from Normal rank in the Tough category." Brendan said as he signed the entry documents and handed his trainer ID card to the receptionist. He had already changed into his costume - a gift from Lisia the idol, and Aggron seemed to like the metal accessories.
"Cool, right?" He patted Aggron's arm and noticed a smudge of dirt. He got a tissue from the reception desk and rubbed it off. Aggron glanced at him, but then her expression saddened. That didn't go unnoticed by Brendan.
"Well, let's go on stage, and show everyone what you're capable of." He grasped her hand and led her on stage, where the audience would greet them. Brendan had already entered contests before - and he was always the runner-up - but he always felt excited whenever he heard the host announce his name. He hoped this would be a good experience for Aggron, and maybe they could be good friends.
5.
Hoenn was hot.
I thought Kalos had it's hot days, but Hoenn was a tropical region. It was humid, but the skies were very clear.
"We're going to stay in Slateport City for a week. Lisia's special performance takes place the day after tomorrow." Tierno marked his calendar. "We'll have some free time after that."
After checking in the hotel, we split up to tour the city. We agreed to meet at Slateport City's contest hall later, to check out the place first since it'll be difficult to get a good look when Lisia is there. I walked around the market and bought a few bottles of Soda Pop from the beach house when it got too hot to take a stroll. Little tubers were giggling and building sand castles. Some were already splashing in the water. This place felt so peaceful and less hectic despite being a city. I was already starting to like Hoenn.
"Over here!"
Tierno waved in front of the Contest Hall. The last performance of the day had ended, and there was an interview with the winner was ongoing. A guy around my age in a rocker's jacket and metal accessories was answering questions to the interviewer calmly. He even flashed a smile to some of the cheering fans.
"Well well! I guess that concludes our interview for today! We all have high expectations for you and Aggron! The next is Hyper Rank, right, Brendan?"
"Yes. We're aiming for the Master Rank!"
"Oooh, you hear that, Ty? We might be seeing the next new idol soon!"
Some of the girls in the front giggled.
"Thank you for your time, Brendan, and see you in Fallarbor Town next week!" The interviewer shook hands with him and turned to the cameraman to finish up her closing statement. Brendan high-fived with a few fans who stretched out their arms. When Tierno and I stepped aside so he could leave, he smiled and mouthed thanks to us as he left.
"He's so cool!" Tierno said as he danced in excitement, and almost immediately a few girls nearby expressed agreement and started jabbering on his stage performance and how cool his Aggron was.
"I used to think Aggron were just big and scary creatures, but they're in fact really fascinating!"
"So tough, so amazing!" They said in a dreamy voice.
I tried to stop myself from smirking. I knew all too well how awesome Aggrons were. I'd like to talk to that Brendan guy someday. Maybe I'll go see his stage performance while I'm in Hoenn.
6.
Aggron was more amazing than Brendan had thought. She was the star of the entire show on the day she performed in Normal Rank. The audience were excited at the new contest rookie, and Aggron soon became the talk of the town. Wally had greeted them backstage and congratulated them with starry eyes and went on to say how Brendan had inspired him. He timidly approached Aggron, and soon got friendly with her. Aggron had been rather surprised but pleased with herself. Brendan was also satisfied with how the combos worked out and thanked her for following his strategy.
He continued on to the Super Rank in Slateport City. As soon as he registered, a crowd had already formed. The performance was a great success. The final Head Smash blew everyone away. It didn't hurt that Brendan used some polishing wax to make her armor glow brighter. The mob was creating chaos that Brendan had to call her back into her Luxury Ball - which he had bought in place of the broken Pokeball - for the interview.
He thought about moving to Fallarbor Town to get some early practice for the Hyper Rank, but he also wanted to stay and see Lisia's performance.
"Nah, you shouldn't exhaust yourself Brendan." Wally advised through video call. "They're going to air her performance on TV anyways - you're going to be swept in the crowd if you go see her in the Contest Hall and you could get seriously injured."
Brendan decided to listen to Wally. He was right. Besides, watching from TV would allow Aggron to also watch the performance.
On his way leaving Slateport City, he saw two guys talking about Lisia's performance. One of them was happily hopping rhythmically.
"Ah, it's him!"
One of them spotted Brendan and waved. Brendan waved back, then he hopped on his bike and left the city.
Lisia called him after her performance ended.
"I'll be participating in the Hyper Rank as well!" She chirped. "We can be on stage together!"
"That sounds exciting." Brendan washed his polishing cloth and started scrubbing Aggron outside the Pokemon Center. He put the phone on speaker mode and continued working.
"I can't wait to see your Aggron! I hear that she's definitely something! I look forward to seeing her in person!"
"You won't be disappointed." He replied. Aggron was looking at the volcano not far from the town, lost in thought.
"See you soon!" Click.
Brendan was busily scrubbing her back armor plates when he noticed water drops on the ground. He checked to see if he hadn't squeezed the water out of the cloth, but in fact it was Aggron crying.
He was bewildered, but he didn't know how to comfort her when he didn't know why she was crying. Her sad roar only earned a confused nurse to show up with a first-aid kit. Brendan could only wipe her tears, wondering what the matter was. He remembered her sad eyes when he first wiped the smudge of dirt off her.
7.
Lisia's performance had left me dizzy. I could understand why she was called the contest idol, but her performance was much too flashy. Tierno was practically giddy. He even stubbornly stayed behind for two hours to get an autographed photograph from her.
"Thank you for enjoying our stage! We love you!" Lisia beamed at the crowd with her Altaria as she left. Tierno was with the people who wildly screamed.
He made notes on possible moves he could use for performing himself, but I was more interested in the upcoming Hyper Rank. They say Lisia was participating in that one, but there was also going to be Brendan and his Aggron. I was looking forward to that.
It took us a few days to get to Fallarbor Town, but we managed to arrive on the day before the contest. On the very day, We went early in the afternoon to line up, but there was already a long line. Lisia fans, Brendan fans, contest fans in general...everyone was excited.
When the contest began, I felt my hands get sweaty. Standing in the crowd, looking at the stage never felt made me this nervous.
After a flashy entrance of Lisia and her Altaria mega evolving, the host announced the last contestant.
"The rookies climbing their way to the top! Brendan and Aggron!"
I waited for this moment.
No, I didn't.
I was about to clap, but my hands froze midair.
My entire body just froze.
8.
Aggron had done well during the early round of appeals. Brendan looked at the screen showing the scores, and he knew that if he predicted the last move correctly, he'd be able to earn enough points to get ahead of Lisia.
When it was time for Aggron's final appearance, she gave a hearty roar and looked at the crowd.
"Let's go for Head Smash!" Brendan ordered dramatically. He expected a tremor from her attack, but there was nothing.
Aggron was standing there, staring at the crowd. He had never seen her face look so... shocked, and elated.
"Aggron? Aggron?" Brendan approached her gently. "What's the matter?"
He then looked at the crowd, which started to murmur among themselves. Whispers that didn't bother to keep quiet could be heard.
"What is she doing?"
"Stage fright?"
"No, that can't be it."
"Is she looking for something?"
Or rather... is she looking at someone?
"Brendan!" Lisia called behind him as he climbed down from the stage. He glanced back at Aggron and started pushing people out of the way of her view slowly, one by one. The crowd thinned, trying to find the source that made Aggron stop performing.
He found two guys, one of them nervously tugging at the other, who was doing nothing but staring right back at Aggron. Brendan vaguely remembered them from somewhere as Contest fans, but he didn't know who they were, or why they had such a huge influence on Aggron to make her stop.
"Who are you?" Brendan asked. The whole contest hall went quiet. Even the usually cheerful and talkative Lisia fell silent.
"Uhm, um.. we're just - " the nervous guy twiddled his thumbs. The other guy, however, sniffed and pressed down his hat.
"...I'm sorry. I'll leave." Then he walked straight to the exit. Brendan heard a loud cry and the ground shook as Aggron jumped down from the stage. A few people lost balance and fell over. Aggron was trying to following that person, very desperately, but she wasn't fast enough.
"You! Wait up!"
Several cameras flashed as Brendan called back Aggron in her ball and ran after the guy. Lisia said something to the host and followed him as well.
"Brendan! Who was that guy?"
"I don't know!"
The guy was already gone. Lisia sent Altaria flying to search the area and he came back with his fluffy wings covered in dust. Brendan immediately went off to Route 113. There, he found the guy walking through the volcanic ashes.
"Stop right there!"
Brendan caught up with him and threw Aggron's Luxury Ball. She appeared right in front of the guy, sending dusty ash flying everywhere.
"I...I'm sorry I ruined your performance." He said quietly.
"No. I don't want an apology." Brendan said firmly. "Tell me who you are."
"...my name is Calem."
"You're Calem...?"
He reached out both arms. Aggron placed her head in his hands as if they've done this for years.
Which may be exactly so.
"So you're the original trainer." Brendan nodded. There was something odd about the two. Aggron was clearly happy to see him, but Calem was looking uncomfortable.
"I see you've kept her well. She looked amazing on stage. I'm glad to see her confident, and proud." He rubbed Aggron's armor with his sleeve.
Two more people arrived on the scene. Tierno and Lisia had caught up with them.
"Thank you." Calem patted Aggron and started to leave.
"Why did you run away?" Brendan asked. Calem tensed up and froze on the spot.
"Wha - what do you mean?"
"Why did you run away from the contest hall? You could have just said you were her previous trainer, and we could have announced a short intermission to sort things out."
"On hindsight, I guess that might have been the right thing to do, but..." Calem broke off mid-sentence.
"But?"
"I was just... I didn't know what to do when she saw me... I..."
"Yes, I understand your embarrassment, but you ran away even when Aggron was following you."
"I... well..."
It dawned on Brendan. He couldn't admit he was her previous trainer.
He ran away.
He didn't want to admit he was her trainer.
"You gave up on her." He said coldly.
Calem looked at Brendan in horror.
"No! I didn't - "
"No? Then tell me - tell her why you traded her away. Why did she end up here in Hoenn all the way from Kalos? Why did you run away from her?"
"I... I wanted her to have a better trainer than me!" Calem stammered. "I - I can't - I couldn't. Damn it. I wanted her to train under a better trainer because I was the worst! I know this isn't something to brag about, but I never won any battles ever since I went pro and I became broke - "
Brendan didn't know what to say, but he sure didn't like what he was listening to. So Calem wanted Aggron to train in a better environment because he couldn't provide one? He gave away Aggron to a complete stranger, who went through the hands of other strangers, because he wanted her to have a better trainer? He ran away from Aggron despite how desperately she followed him?
Despite how much she's missed him?
Yes.
"Pathetic." Brendan said. He walked straight up and punched Calem, who tripped and fell on his back straight into the pile of ashes.
"Brendan, don't!" Lisia screamed.
"You know what? You're a loser."
Only Aggron's cries could be heard through the silence.
9.
My face felt numb, but I was half-glad Brendan punched me.
"Aggron, we're leaving."
Brendan said, but Aggron didn't move.
"Aggron, let's go."
She didn't follow him. When I stood up, her eyes met mine. I turned away from her.
"Go with him." I said, but she didn't. Instead, she nudged my head with her fingertips.
"Aggron, go with Brendan - you know what it's like to be with me." I started to leave. I didn't look at anyone, and just walked across Route 113. Only the footsteps of Tierno remained behind me, and when the road of ashes ended, I looked back.
Tierno was standing with an umbrella over his head, his expression unreadable. The rest of the background was completely invisible from the falling ashes.
"We should go." I said quietly.
Aggron was doing well. Brendan had introduced her to contests, a whole new career. She was the next contest star, and I felt proud of her.
I wouldn't do any good if I stayed. When I told Tierno I'd go back to Kalos, he wasn't surprised.
"I see. But I do want you to come with Lilycove with me. It's an amazing place - at least tour the city. It would be a real shame if you didn't see the harbor."
I weighed my options and agreed to stay until his business in Lilycove was over. Then Tierno would start participating in Contests, and I'd go back to Kalos.
The day before we arrived in Lilycove, we were invited to stay in the Safari Zone for the night. The warden was kind enough to provide us a room.
But I couldn't sleep. Leaving Tierno's snores behind, I walked outside. The Safari Zone was close to the ocean - there was a thick mist in the distance. Nearby, I found a group of people boarding on a small boat.
"Where are you going?" I asked.
"Mt. Pyre." One of them said grimly.
"Can I go with you?"
"Hop in."
The boat was wobbly, but it made across the water just fine. Through the mist, a large mountain appeared in the middle of the sea. I got off and followed the people inside, but they didn't move in groups. Instead, some of them went and placed cans of water and food in front of square rocks while some of them went upstairs.
This was the Pokemon cemetery of Hoenn. It felt eerie, but I wasn't scared. I climbed up the stairs - what would I see at the top?
On the way, I met a boy who was sniffling in front of a tombstone. He said his best friend had liked Soda Pops. I had a few left from the bundle I bought in Slateport market. When I offered him one, he thanked me.
To Delcatty. To Marill. To Roserade. To Shuppet (Ghost-types could die...?) I read the name of the tombstones as I walked to the top. There was a door leading outside. The night air was chilly, but I didn't mind.
An elderly person was praying at the large altar near the peak of Mt. Pyre. But arriving close, it wasn't an elderly person, but a young man with silver hair. He noticed me and stepped down.
"Just make sure to keep yourself from stepping over the line." He said. There was a line drawn on the ground, preventing anyone from getting too close to the altar. There were two brightly colored orbs.
"What are those?" I asked.
"The Red and Blue Orbs, as you can see, house the power of ancient evolution. It's said they watch over Hoenn with all the spirits." He answered.
"What happens if I step over the line?"
"I'm afraid you'll be arrested on the spot and get detained in jail." He said humorlessly. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."
"Thanks for the useful advice." I muttered.
The man was about to leave, but stopped and looked at me up and down.
"Say... were you at the Fallarbor Contest Hall?" He asked.
I winced.
"Yeah."
"I thought so. So it was you that Brendan went after."
"How do you know?" My voice rose sharply.
"Aggrons are very prideful when it comes to their abilities, and if it's not a trainer they acknowledge, they won't even look in that direction." The man said quietly, but firmly. "I know Brendan's new Aggron, and if she refused to take an order from him because of you, you're not just any trainer."
This guy actually deduced that much? I didn't even feel the need to get defensive.
"Just so you know," this time he really walked away. "Aggrons have quite the memory. You might want to complete any unfinished business with her."
I looked up at the sky instead. Me, a loser, who was also the previous trainer of the now famous Aggron. How ironic.
I came to Hoenn to refresh myself, but I had to face my most painful memory. Even if I went back, things would be the same. I'd still be a loser.
It was then I realized.
I never said goodbye.
10.
Reporters could be rather too persistant at times. Brendan was sick of them asking questions about the "Mystery Guy" who interrupted the performance. He left for his Secret Base on Route 120. The heavy rain shielded him from anyone approaching him with the same questions.
Wally arrived later to deliver a message from Lisia. She had taken care of the situation and the press wasn't going to bother him anymore.
"That's a relief." Brendan replied bitterly.
"Where are you going to go next?" Wally asked, shaking water from his hair. "If you want to re-do Hyper Rank, how about going to Lilycove? I'd say you should just go and win both Hyper and Master Ranks there."
"Thanks for the option, but I want some time to think things over."
"I..." Wally began. "I kinda understand him. You know, Calem. Lisia told me what happened."
Brendan didn't answer.
"I can't say that he's done the right thing, but I'm not going to say he's wrong, either. It was his choice that he made for Aggron."
Brendan remembered the first day he met her. Angry, hurt, and confused. Some choice that was.
"But why did Aggron stop taking orders from you during the contest?" Wally asked.
"You heard the whole story, Wally," Brendan said, exasperated. "He appeared, and she got distracted. Simple."
"I know. Traded pokemon do recognize their previous owners, but she still should have acted when you ordered an attack. She's technically yours - she shouldn't have tried to follow him."
"What do you mean?"
"I think," Wally looked out the Base into the darkness. "Her relationship with Calem isn't finished."
"So are you saying she still thinks Calem is her rightful trainer?" Brendan's mind floated back to route 113. What had been so odd about the two?
"Could be. I can't guarantee anything - it's just a thought."
11.
Tierno had been worried sick when he discovered I had left to explore on my own during the night. The next boat ride back was scheduled early in the morning, so I had spent the whole night in the cemetery. I barely slept.
"I thought you went back to Kalos on your own!" He said tearfully.
"Sorry. I promise I won't wander off without telling you." I forced a smile. I looked around for the guy with silver hair, but it seems he had a different method to leave Mt. Pyre.
Lilycove was indeed a beautiful harbor city. The department store and art museum stood tall, dazzling under the bright sun on the highest land, and at the far end, there was a lighthouse. The Contest Hall here was larger than the other halls I've been to. All the buildings in Lilycove was big. It must be quite a view from the sea. The beaches were large enough for undisturbed pokemon battles.
"Are you sure you want to go back to Kalos?" Tierno asked.
"There's nothing I can do in Hoenn."
"Then what are you going to do in Kalos?"
"I'll go back to berry farming. Maybe I'll actually try and make a living out of it." I said without enthusiasm.
"Are you really going to quit being a trainer?"
"Well," I adjusted my hat. The sea breeze was strong. "I'm a loser."
"But being a professional trainer was your dream! You always wanted to be a battler - "
"Tierno, sometimes dreams don't work the way you want." I tried not to raise my voice. "I lost every battle. I lost all my money. I disappointed myself, and I disappointed Aggron."
"Are you sure Aggron's really disappointed in you, though?" A few Wingulls were flying in the air smoothly. Tierno got his notebook and drew some patterns.
"Well? She's the best Aggron I've bred. She's followed the hard training manual and did her best in every battle, and if I couldn't help her win, then - "
"I mean... she looked so happy on stage, and she was enjoying being in the spotlight." Tierno said thoughtfully. "Maybe she doesn't really care if she wins battles or not. Maybe she just battled since she cares about you, and she wanted you to be happy?"
That last part sunk in. My mouth went dry.
Was I being selfish?
"I have to see her again." I said quietly. I wiped my sweaty hands on my pants as I headed to the Pokemon Center.
"I'm not sure if that's a good idea - " Tierno called as he tried to catch up. Shoving his notes in his bag, he glanced around. "No offense, but last time - "
"I know what happened last time, thank you very much." I walked up to one of the phones. "But I have to confirm a few things... and I have something important to say to her. Something I should have told her."
"If you insist." Tierno shrugged. I picked up the receiver and dialed.
The moment the screen connected, I put on my best smile.
"Hey, Professor Sycamore. It's me, Calem."
12.
Brendan closed his eyes and counted to ten. He couldn't focus - there were too many people outside. Wally looked more frightened than nervous. Lisia was adding the finishing touches to Altaria's feathers for extra fluffiness.
"If you're not up for it, you can always schedule another contest." She said gently.
"I did give you the option of going through Hyper Rank and Master Rank at Lilycove, but not on the same day!" Wally wailed as if everything was his fault. Brendan had completed the Hyper Rank in the morning, and registered for the Master Rank in the evening. He healed Aggron and double-checked if she was spotlessly clean. He was exhausted, but he wanted to get over with it as soon as possible.
"Well, it's almost showtime." She sang. "Shall we leave?"
Brendan thought he was going deaf - the Master Rank was always the most popular, and they were only hosted in Lilycove City because no other Contest Halls could seat all the fans swarming inside the hall. The security guards had set up iron gates to prevent fans from getting too close with the coordinators. There were so many people waving, yelling encouragement, and some were pushing and getting on their tiptoes to see better.
"Brendan!"
Among the fans, Brendan spotted Calem and his friend, and was surprised that the guy had the nerve to appear again before him.
"I have something to say to her!" He yelled.
Calem seemed to have changed ever since they had last met. He wasn't looking apologetic or avoiding eye contact. Maybe he'll hear him out for the last time. Brendan held up his hand as he walked inside. They'll meet up after the show.
13.
Lisia ended up winning the Master Rank contest, but Brendan was still amazing. Aggron was the runner-up, yet she was even more popular than before. People complimented her appeals, and expressed high expectations in the future.
I met Brendan backstage where he was talking to his friends.
"Oh! Is that him?" A green haired kid asked curiously.
"Yeah." Brendan said indifferently. "Can you wait a bit until people are gone?"
I said I'd wait. I told Tierno that I'd go back to Kalos as soon as I finished my own business with Brendan. Tierno looked somewhat disappointed, but understood my decision and bid me good luck. I shook hands with him as he left and wished him the best. He'll be starting a new career in Hoenn.
It took a long time before the Contest Hall was nearly deserted. When Brendan appeared, I led him to the beach of Lilycove, which was just as deserted, yet full of empty space.
"So, what do you want?" He asked.
I held up my Pokeball.
"Battle me."
Brendan's expression turned serious as he grabbed for his own Pokeball.
I sent out Greninja as a Swampert appeared on the other side. I had asked Professor Sycamore to send me my old team members - the ones that gave me my dream of becoming a professional battler ever since I started my journey years ago. They had traveled with me for the longest time, and fought all the gym battles with me before I went pro. They aided me up to the champion battle, where I finally passed the test. I knew them best, and they knew me better. They weren't competitively built as Aggron, but I had battled with them for years.
I wanted to see for myself what I was worth.
I wanted to remember what the old me would do.
I wanted to tell Aggron all about it.
When Swampert fainted, Brendan sent out Aggron. Her eyes widened at the sight of me, and she hesitated when Brendan gave an order.
"Don't hold back!" I said. Aggron swept her body around for an Iron Tail, unsure what this was all about. She sent Hawlucha colliding to the ground, fainting him. I was already down to my last pokemon. Doublade, which I never evolved because I couldn't afford a Dusk Stone.
"Sacred Sword!"
That almost KO'd Aggron, but she held on. Seeing that I was determined, she gave her battle roar as she used an Earthquake attack. Doublade missed the next turn. Another Earthquake hit.
I was completely defeated.
But I didn't feel any disappointment. It was a loss to be expected... and a loss that actually felt good for a turn.
"It seems that they're your best friends. You raised them well." Brendan said as he gave Aggron a Sitrus Berry. "I take back what I said - maybe you're not really a loser."
"No. I am." I approached them. "Aggron..."
I reached out my arms, but she only gazed at me with sad eyes.
"I'm sorry."
I should have told you I was trading you away.
I should have known what you wanted.
Did you hate battling? Or did you prefer something else?
"Aggron does her best where she's needed." Brendan said. "She never complains, and she doesn't stop trying."
This time, I didn't cry. I let the words do the work. I didn't turn away.
I should have said goodbye.
"You never said goodbye to her?" Brendan sighed. "So that was the problem."
"What...?"
Brendan held out a Luxury Ball.
"Here. Take her back."
"No - I can't - you got her from trade - " I held up my hand to refuse.
"Aggron probably never thought she was sent away." Brendan said without a smile. "You didn't tell her she was going to be traded, and you didn't say goodbye. It wasn't a farewell to her."
I looked at the Luxury Ball and back at Aggron.
I knew for once my decision would be correct.
"Then this is goodbye."
I took off my hat and reached out to her once more.
"Stay with Brendan. Be proud of yourself. You're the toughest beauty I've ever seen. I won't come back to see you again, and I won't be here to polish your armor."
Slowly, Aggron placed her head on my hands. I nudged her with my forehead for the last time.
"But I will always be rooting for you. You'll be fine without me."
Aggron didn't look sad anymore, but concerned.
"So what are you going to do when you're back in Kalos?" Brendan asked. "Are you really quitting?"
"I'll decide what to do when I get there." I put my hat back on. "This is farewell."
"Hey." Brendan called. "Are you sure you're not having second thoughts?"
I left the two behind and walked across the beach. The sea breeze was strong, but it didn't feel cold.
Maybe I'll make a living out of my berry farm.
Or maybe... I'll go back and work as a professional trainer again.
I'll probably lose.
I'm pathetic.
I'm a loser.
But I won't lose myself again.
