Kai tightened their grip on the brand-new Poke Ball, heart pounding, as Professor Oak slid a red Pokedex across the polished lab table.
“That’s yours now, Kai. With it, you'll record every Pokemon you meet.”
The morning sun filtered through the oak trees outside, dappling the rows of books and jars in the lab. Kai’s partner Pokemon, small, bright-eyed, and just as eager, hopped at their side, looking up with anticipation. Professor Oak smiled kindly, his lab coat crisp, eyes dancing with memory.
“The journey’s waiting just outside those doors. Your first step is always the biggest.”
Kai stuffed the Pokedex and a handful of Poke Balls into their backpack, slung it over their shoulders, and drew a deep breath. Outside, Pallet Town shimmered with possibility: the start of every story, the echo of a thousand journeys. The faint call of a Pidgey floated through the open window. Professor Oak watched, pride and hope plain in his voice.
“Go on, Kai. Make me proud, and don’t forget to write.”