The seventh morning aboard the SS Dragonair began with Victini bouncing on Sasuke's chest to wake him. The Victory Pokemon chirped excitedly, pointing toward the porthole where early morning light streamed through. Sasuke groaned and checked his phone, five-thirty in the morning. They weren't scheduled to dock for another three hours.
"Too early," he muttered, but Victini was having none of it. The little Pokemon tugged on his hair insistently until Sasuke surrendered and got out of bed.
He dressed quickly and headed out onto the deck with Victini leading the way. The air carried a different quality this morning, less pure ocean salt and more hints of land vegetation. Pine and grass and earth, the smell of approaching shore after a week at sea.
Other early risers had gathered at the forward railing, watching as coastline materialized from morning mist. Sasuke found his three companions already there, apparently Victini's excitement had been shared by their Pokemon, who'd woken their respective trainers at similarly unreasonable hours.
"Morning," Kasumi said around a yawn. She'd thrown on a hoodie over her sleep clothes and her crimson hair was pulled into a messy bun. "Gardevoir woke me up insisting I needed to see the sunrise. I think the Pokemon are more excited about arriving than we are."
"Shaymin was the same," Miyuki confirmed. She looked more put-together despite the early hour, already dressed in casual travel clothes. "Though I admit I'm excited too. Pallet Town is historically significant, the birthplace of modern Pokemon training methodology."
"And home to Professor Oak's laboratory," Kiyomi added. She alone appeared fully awake, sipping from a travel mug of what smelled like very strong coffee. "Which houses one of the largest Pokemon research databases in the world. I'm hoping to access their archaeological archives."
Sasuke joined them at the railing. The coastline was becoming clearer now, green hills rolling down to meet the ocean, forests of pine and oak covering the higher elevations. A lighthouse stood sentinel on a rocky point, its beam still rotating despite the approaching dawn. And there, nestled in a valley where the hills created natural shelter, sat Pallet Town.
"It's smaller than I expected," Kasumi said.
She was right. Compared to the massive cities they'd all grown up in, Blackthorn with its thirty million people, Goldenrod with similar populations, the sprawling metropolises that defined Kanto and Johto, Pallet Town looked almost quaint. The buildings were low and spread out, with plenty of green space between structures. Sasuke could see the entire town from the ship, which would have been impossible with any of the major cities.
"Population is about fifty thousand," Miyuki supplied. "Small by regional standards. But it's one of the most important towns in Kanto history. The Pokemon League was founded here two hundred years ago. Professor Oak's research revolutionized modern training techniques. And more Champions have come from Pallet Town than any other single location."
"Quality over quantity," Kiyomi observed.
The ship's horn sounded, thirty minutes to docking. Around them, other passengers began appearing on deck, drawn by the announcement and the sight of land after a week at sea. Excitement rippled through the crowd. Many of these people were starting their own journeys today, receiving their Trainer Licenses and setting out to challenge gyms and pursue dreams.
"We should get packed," Miyuki suggested. "The disembarkation process will be chaotic with this many passengers."
They returned to their cabins to gather luggage and ensure their Pokemon were ready. Sasuke did a final check of his supplies, confirming nothing had been damaged or depleted during the voyage. The knife set from his father lay secure in its protective case. His Pokeballs were fully charged. The pendant from the Uchiha clan rested beneath his shirt, the jade cool against his skin.
Ready. He was ready for this.
Victini settled on his shoulder as he grabbed his pack. The Victory Pokemon had been practically vibrating with excitement all morning, sensing Sasuke's own anticipation even when he tried to stay calm.
"Big day," Sasuke said to it quietly.
Victini chirped enthusiastic agreement and patted his cheek with one small paw.
By the time Sasuke met his companions at the designated gathering point, the ship had completed docking procedures. The gangway was being secured, and crew members were organizing passengers into orderly lines for disembarkation. The crowd pressed forward eagerly, trainers and families and merchants all ready to reach solid ground after seven days at sea.
Captain Himura appeared through the crowd, Officer Mizuki accompanying her. They'd both made a point of checking in with Sasuke's group every day since the Sharpedo incident. The investigation was ongoing, several suspicious individuals had been detained for questioning, but no definitive proof had emerged linking them to the Aether Foundation.
"Sasuke, ladies," Captain Himura greeted them. "I wanted to say farewell properly before you disembarked. Your help during the crisis was invaluable."
"We just did what anyone would do," Sasuke replied.
"Most nineteen-year-olds would have hidden in their cabins." She smiled. "You four have bright futures ahead. I've submitted official commendations to the League, they'll be added to your permanent trainer records once you receive your licenses."
"Thank you," Miyuki said. "That's very kind."
"It's appropriate recognition for appropriate actions." Captain Himura pulled out four small cards and handed them over. "Premium passes for the SS Dragonair. Good for one free trip per year on any of our routes. Consider it a personal thank you for preventing what could have been a disaster."
Kasumi examined her card with delight. "This is amazing! These passes usually cost a fortune!"
"Use them well." The Captain nodded to Officer Mizuki. "We need to oversee the disembarkation process. Safe travels, all of you. And be careful, the people behind that cargo theft are still out there."
She left before they could respond. Sasuke pocketed his cruise pass and filed away the reminder about caution. The Aether Foundation wouldn't stop their operations just because one theft had been discovered.
The line to disembark finally began moving. Sasuke's group merged into the flow of passengers heading down the gangway. Solid ground felt strange after a week of constant subtle motion, Sasuke's balance adjusted automatically, but he noticed Kasumi stumbling slightly before catching herself.
"Land legs," she explained with a laugh. "Takes a minute to readjust."
Pallet Town's port was considerably smaller than Blackthorn's massive facility, but it bustled with activity nonetheless. Crew members unloaded cargo, families reunited with arriving passengers, and local merchants had set up stalls selling everything from travel supplies to fresh food to Pokemon accessories.
A Pokemon Center stood prominently near the port entrance, standard design with red roof and the distinctive Pokeball symbol marking it as an official League facility. Sasuke had been in dozens of Centers over the years, but this one carried historical weight. The first Pokemon Center had been established in Pallet Town. Every other Center in the world copied this original design.
"Should we stop there first?" Miyuki asked. "Get our Pokemon checked after the voyage?"
"Good idea," Kiyomi agreed. "We'll need to register with the local Center anyway if we're staying in town for more than a day."
They navigated through the crowd toward the Center. Victini attracted attention as always, several young trainers pointed and whispered about the Legendary Pokemon casually perched on Sasuke's shoulder. He'd gotten used to the stares during the cruise, but it still felt uncomfortable being the center of attention.
The Pokemon Center's automatic doors opened with a soft chime. Inside, the space was clean and bright, with examination rooms visible through windows along one wall and a large waiting area filled with comfortable seating. A Chansey waddled between rooms carrying medical supplies, humming contentedly.
Behind the main counter stood Nurse Joy, or rather, a Nurse Joy, since the family was famous for producing nearly identical daughters who all became Pokemon nurses. This one appeared to be in her forties, with the characteristic pink hair and white uniform that marked her profession.
She looked up as they approached and immediately broke into a warm smile. "Welcome to Pallet Town! Are you here for Pokemon check-ups or-" She stopped mid-sentence, her eyes widening. "Wait. Sasuke Uchiha?"
Sasuke nodded cautiously. "Yes?"
"Itachi's little brother! I'd recognize those crimson eyes anywhere!" Nurse Joy came around the counter with surprising energy. "And you must be Miyuki Senju, you have your grandmother's eyes. And Kasumi Uzumaki! Your mother and I went to academy together!"
Recognition spread across her face as she looked at each of them. "Kiyomi Kurama, correct? Your mother published that groundbreaking paper on ancient Pokemon civilizations last year. I'm so pleased to meet all of you!"
"You know our families?" Miyuki asked.
"Small town advantages," Nurse Joy said. "Everyone knows everyone else's business, especially when it involves the children of famous trainers. Your mothers contacted me weeks ago to let me know you'd be arriving. They asked me to keep an eye out for you."
"Of course they did," Kiyomi muttered.
"It's lovely that you're all traveling together, just like your mothers did thirty years ago." Nurse Joy practically radiated enthusiasm. "They were some of my favorite patients, always getting into adventures that resulted in minor injuries they tried to hide. I see the tradition continues, given the commendation Captain Himura sent ahead about your actions during the Sharpedo incident."
"News travels fast," Sasuke observed.
"League communication network. Any significant events are reported immediately to relevant Centers." She gestured toward the examination rooms. "Now, let's check your Pokemon. I assume you want full health assessments after a week at sea?"
They followed her into a large examination room equipped with sophisticated diagnostic equipment. Sasuke released all ten of his Pokemon while the others brought out their partners. The room suddenly felt much smaller with ten Legendary and pseudo-Legendary Pokemon, plus Shaymin, Gardevoir, and Ninetales all materializing simultaneously.
Nurse Joy didn't even blink at the display of power. "Goodness, that's quite the team you've assembled, Sasuke. Your father must be very proud."
"He is," Sasuke confirmed.
She moved through the Pokemon with professional efficiency, running diagnostic scans and basic health checks. Victini tried to charm her with its usual playful antics, earning gentle laughter. Latios observed everything with quiet dignity. Zekrom had to crouch to avoid damaging the ceiling, which seemed to amuse Nurse Joy considerably.
"All of your Pokemon are in excellent health," she declared after completing the examinations. "Whatever care regimen you're following, maintain it. These are some of the healthiest specimens I've seen."
"Thank you," Miyuki said. "I've been helping coordinate their care during the voyage."
"Your grandmother taught you well, then." Nurse Joy returned to her computer to update their records. "Now, you'll be heading to Professor Sarutobi's laboratory for your Trainer Licenses?"
"That's the plan," Kasumi confirmed.
"He's expecting you. His lab is about a fifteen-minute walk from here, head north on Main Street, then east when you reach the town square. You can't miss it. Large traditional building with modern additions, surrounded by research gardens."
She printed out directions and handed them over along with temporary Trainer IDs that would grant them access to official facilities until they received their permanent licenses.
They were halfway to the door when someone called out, "Excuse me! Sasuke Uchiha?"
Sasuke turned to find a young trainer, maybe sixteen or seventeen, approaching with a nervous expression and a Pokeball clutched in both hands. Two friends hovered behind him, clearly the ones who'd pushed him into approaching.
"Yes?" Sasuke replied.
"Could I... could I get your autograph?" The kid held out a notebook and pen. "You're the Champion's brother, and you have a Victini, and I saw the news about you stopping the Sharpedo attack. You're like, basically famous."
Sasuke blinked. "Me? Famous?"
"You absolutely are," the kid insisted. "Everyone knows about the Four Supernovas starting their journeys this year. You, Naruto Namikaze, Kanaye Senju, and Neji Hyuga. You're all supposed to be incredible trainers."
"The Four Supernovas?" Kiyomi repeated, amusement clear in her voice.
"Yeah! That's what the media's calling them," one of the kid's friends supplied. "There are betting pools about which one will collect all sixteen badges first."
This was news to Sasuke. Apparently being isolated on a ship for a week meant missing developments in how the media had decided to characterize his journey.
"Uh sure... I'll sign," he said finally, because refusing a kid would be rude. He took the notebook and pen and added his signature with a small doodle of Victini that the Victory Pokemon insisted on.
That opened the floodgates. Suddenly a dozen kids materialized, all wanting autographs or photos or just to shake his hand. Miyuki and Kasumi got pulled into it too, apparently being the traveling companions of a "Supernova" made them interesting by association.
Kiyomi managed to slip away during the chaos, standing off to the side with her Ninetales and looking thoroughly entertained by the entire situation.
"This is why I'm glad I'm not famous," she said when Sasuke finally extracted himself from the crowd fifteen minutes later. "You look traumatized."
"I really didn't expect that," Sasuke admitted.
"Small town, big news," Miyuki said. She'd handled the attention with grace, smiling politely and signing autographs without appearing bothered. "We should probably get moving before more people recognize us."
"Agreed," Kasumi said. She'd clearly enjoyed the attention more than the others, chatting enthusiastically with each person who'd approached. "Though this is kind of exciting! We're like celebrities!"
"You're a celebrity by association," Kiyomi corrected. "The rest of us are just along for the ride on Sasuke's fame train."
"I didn't ask for a fame train."
"No one asks for fame. It just happens when you're the brother of the Champion, bonded to a Victini, and part of a media-invented group called the Four Supernovas." Kiyomi started walking toward the Pokemon Center exit. "Come on. Let's get our licenses before someone decides to throw you a parade."
They followed Nurse Joy's directions through Pallet Town. The place really was quaint compared to what they were used to, single-story buildings with traditional architecture, tree-lined streets, gardens visible behind white picket fences. People walked at a relaxed pace, stopping to chat with neighbors or sit on benches in the morning sun. A few stores had opened for the day, their signs hand-painted and welcoming.
"It's charming," Miyuki observed. "Like something from a historical preservation district."
"Pallet Town takes its heritage seriously," Kiyomi said, consulting information on her tablet. "There are strict building codes to maintain the traditional aesthetic. Nothing over three stories, all new construction must match historical styles, extensive green space requirements. The town voted to stay small deliberately."
"I like it," Kasumi said. "It feels peaceful. Like the kind of place where you could actually rest between adventures."
They reached the town square, a central park area with a fountain, benches, and a large oak tree that had to be several hundred years old. Children played while their parents watched, and a few vendors sold fresh produce from stands around the perimeter.
Professor Sarutobi's laboratory stood on the eastern edge of the square. The building was exactly as Nurse Joy had described, traditional Japanese architecture with curved roof tiles and wooden construction, but modern glass additions extended from the back. Research gardens surrounded the property, filled with berry bushes and medicinal plants organized in neat rows. A small greenhouse stood to one side, and equipment sheds occupied spaces between garden sections.
The front entrance featured a wooden sign carved with elegant characters: "Sarutobi Pokemon Research Laboratory - Auxiliary Facility of Oak Institute."
"This is it," Miyuki said unnecessarily.
They approached the entrance together. Sasuke knocked on the wooden door, and a voice called from within, "Come in, come in! The door's open!"
Inside, the laboratory combined traditional and modern elements seamlessly. Wooden floors and sliding paper doors created a framework for high-tech equipment, computer stations, medical scanners, specimen analysis tools, and other devices Sasuke couldn't immediately identify. Bookshelves lined every wall, packed with volumes on Pokemon research, training methodology, and regional ecology. Natural light poured through large windows, and the space smelled faintly of paper and green tea.
An elderly man stood at a central workstation, examining something through a microscope. He wore traditional robes over what looked like comfortable casual clothes, and his white beard was neatly trimmed. Despite his age, probably somewhere in his seventies, he moved with energy as he looked up from his work.
"Ah! Right on time!" He abandoned the microscope and approached them with a warm smile. "Sasuke Uchiha, Miyuki Senju, Kasumi Uzumaki, and Kiyomi Kurama. Welcome to my humble laboratory. I'm Professor Hiruzen Sarutobi, though please just call me Hiruzen. Formality makes me feel ancient."
"Thank you for seeing us, Professor," Miyuki said politely.
"The pleasure is mine." Hiruzen gestured toward a seating area with comfortable cushions around a low table. "Please, sit. We have business to conduct, but I see no reason to conduct it uncomfortably. Would anyone like tea? I have a lovely oolong that just arrived from Ecruteak City."
"Tea would be wonderful," Kiyomi said, claiming a cushion.
While Hiruzen prepared tea at a small station in the corner, Sasuke settled onto a cushion and took in more details of the laboratory. Photos covered one wall, groups of trainers from different eras, Pokemon in various habitats, research expeditions to exotic locations. One photo in particular caught his attention: four young women standing together, all of them smiling at the camera. He recognized them immediately despite the thirty-year age difference, his mother Mikoto, Miyuki's mother Hanako, Kasumi's mother Kaori, and Kiyomi's mother Yuki.
"That's them," he said. "Our mothers."
Hiruzen glanced at the photo and smiled. "Indeed. That was taken right here in this laboratory thirty years ago when they received their Trainer Licenses. I was just an assistant to Professor Oak back then, but I remember them vividly. Particularly Mikoto, she had a tendency to argue with anyone who suggested women couldn't be powerful trainers."
"That sounds like Mother," Sasuke admitted.
"Your mother was formidable even at nineteen." Hiruzen brought over a tea service and poured for everyone. "Hanako was the peacemaker of their group, always smoothing over conflicts and keeping everyone focused. Kaori brought infectious enthusiasm that could brighten the darkest situations. And Yuki had a brilliant mind for patterns and historical context. Together, they were unstoppable."
"They want us to follow their path," Miyuki said quietly.
"They want you to have the opportunity they had, to form bonds through shared challenges and discover who you are outside your families' shadows." Hiruzen sipped his tea. "But they're not forcing you to be identical to them. Each of you has your own strengths and goals."
"Speaking of goals," Kiyomi said. "We're here for our Trainer Licenses."
"Indeed you are!" Hiruzen stood and moved to one of the computer stations. "The process is relatively simple. I'll verify your identities and qualifications, process the official applications, and then issue your licenses. Should take about thirty minutes."
He began typing, pulling up files on each of them. Sasuke watched as his information appeared on screen, full name, birthdate, family connections, Pokemon team composition, training history. Everything neatly documented in the League's database.
"Impressive team," Hiruzen observed, reading through Sasuke's file. "Ten Pokemon including multiple Legendaries. Your father's training was clearly comprehensive."
"It was intensive," Sasuke agreed.
Hiruzen worked through each of their files methodically, asking occasional questions to verify information and updating records. He requested they release their Pokemon briefly for scanning and registration, official records needed confirmation that the Pokemon bonded to each trainer matched database descriptions.
When Sasuke's full team materialized in the laboratory, Hiruzen's eyes widened. "Goodness. Seeing them listed on a screen doesn't compare to the reality. You've assembled quite the collection, young man."
Zekrom's presence dominated the space. The Deep Black Pokemon had to crouch to avoid the ceiling, its blue eyes regarding Hiruzen with ancient intelligence. Latios hovered near Sasuke's shoulder, protective as always. Victini chirped greetings to everyone, apparently trying to charm the Professor the same way it charmed every human it encountered.
"Each of these bonds represents significant accomplishment," Hiruzen said. He approached Zekrom carefully. "The Legendary of Truth only acknowledges trainers who seek truth without compromise. That it chose you speaks to your character, Sasuke."
"Thank you, Professor."
After scanning all their Pokemon and confirming registrations, Hiruzen returned to his workstation. "Now comes the official part. The League requires all trainers to understand the responsibilities they're accepting when they receive their licenses."
He pulled up a document and read from it formally: "A Pokemon Trainer License grants you authority to capture and train Pokemon throughout League territories. It permits participation in official competitions including Gym challenges, the Indigo League Championship, and specialized tournaments. It also binds you to League regulations protecting Pokemon welfare, environmental preservation, and ethical training practices. Do you understand and accept these responsibilities?"
"Yes," all four of them said in unison.
"Excellent." Hiruzen tapped a few keys. A machine beside his workstation hummed to life and began printing. "Your licenses will be ready momentarily. While we wait, there's something your mothers asked me to give you."
He stood and moved to a cabinet on the far wall. When he opened it, Sasuke saw a large wrapped package sitting on the top shelf. Hiruzen lifted it carefully and brought it over to their seating area.
"They visited me two months ago," he explained. "Said their children would be starting their journeys together and wanted to provide something that would help you bond as a team. Open it."
Kasumi immediately began unwrapping the package with enthusiastic energy. Miyuki and Kiyomi helped from the sides while Sasuke watched, curious despite himself.
The paper fell away to reveal a large case. Kasumi opened the clasps and lifted the lid.
Inside, carefully packed in protective foam, sat equipment, advanced camping gear, portable cooking supplies, emergency medical kits, navigation tools, and other traveling necessities. But that wasn't the significant part. What made Kasumi gasp and Miyuki cover her mouth was the keychain attached to a set of keys at the bottom of the case.
The keys were labeled "Mobile Home Registration - Model RV-4X Enhanced."
"Is this..." Kiyomi's voice trailed off.
"A Spatially-Enhanced Mobile Home," Hiruzen confirmed with a smile. "Your mothers pooled resources to purchase one for you. It's currently parked in my research compound's garage. The keys are yours, full ownership, registered to all four of you jointly."
Sasuke knew about Spatially-Enhanced Mobile Homes. They were the standard transportation for serious trainers who planned extended journeys, recreational vehicles that used dimensional compression technology to create living spaces far larger than their external dimensions suggested. The technology was expensive, and even basic models cost significant money.
"Our mothers bought us an RV?" Kasumi asked, wonder clear in her voice.
"Not just any RV," Hiruzen said. "This is a Model RV-4X Enhanced, one of the best designs available. Spatial enhancement creates approximately two thousand square feet of interior space despite the exterior being only twenty-four feet long. Full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, entertainment systems, and built-in Pokemon care facilities."
"That's..." Miyuki looked stunned. "That's an incredibly expensive gift!"
"Your mothers believed in investing in your journey properly." Hiruzen pulled out additional documentation from the case. "Everything's already registered with the League. Insurance paid for the first year. The vehicle can be compressed into a portable form for easy transport when you're not using it. And there's a training manual for the driver, I believe that would be you, Sasuke?"
"Why me?"
"Your mother mentioned you'd learned to drive during your Crown Tundra training. And apparently you have the most patience for navigating difficult terrain." Hiruzen smiled. "Though the others can learn as well. It's good to have multiple qualified drivers."
The machine beeped, signaling the licenses had finished printing. Hiruzen retrieved four holographic cards and brought them over. "Your official Pokemon Trainer Licenses. Don't lose them, replacements are bureaucratic nightmares."
He handed them out individually. Sasuke accepted his and examined it carefully. The card was about the size of a credit card but noticeably thicker, made from some kind of advanced material that felt indestructible. His photo from the application appeared on one side along with his name, birthdate, and a unique registration number. When he tilted it, holographic text revealed additional information, his home region, emergency contact details, and a verification code.
"These grant you access to Pokemon Centers, official training facilities, and League competitions throughout Kanto and Johto," Hiruzen explained. "They also serve as identification with regional authorities. Keep them secure."
Kasumi stared at her license with an expression approaching reverence. "This makes it real. We're actually official trainers now."
"You are indeed." Hiruzen began putting away the tea service. "I took the liberty of having your Mobile Home already fueled and supplied with basics. It's ready for departure whenever you choose to begin your journey."
"We should see it," Kiyomi said immediately. "I want to know what we're working with."
"I'll give you the tour." Hiruzen led them through the laboratory and out a back door into the research compound. Several outbuildings occupied the space behind the main lab, including a large garage with vehicle-sized doors.
He unlocked the garage and slid open the door. Inside, illuminated by overhead lights, sat their Mobile Home.
It was beautiful. The exterior was sleek navy blue with silver accents, the design more aerodynamic than standard RVs. Solar panels covered the roof. Large windows provided natural light potential. The whole thing looked simultaneously practical and expensive.
"Model RV-4X Enhanced," Hiruzen repeated. "Your mothers spared no expense. Shall we look inside?"
He opened the entry door and gestured for them to enter first.
Sasuke climbed the steps and immediately understood why these vehicles cost so much. The interior was exponentially larger than the exterior suggested, spatial compression making the laws of physics optional. What should have been a cramped RV interior was instead a genuinely spacious living area.
The ground floor featured a full kitchen with professional-grade appliances, a comfortable living room with wraparound seating, a dining area, and a compact but complete bathroom. Stairs led to a second floor where Sasuke could see doors leading to what were presumably bedrooms.
"Three bedrooms upstairs," Hiruzen explained. "Each with its own bathroom. The master bedroom has a small office space attached, thought that might be useful for research work or contest planning. Ground floor has a driver's area, obviously, and storage compartments that are actually accessible without spatial compression technology, good for things you need to reach quickly."
Miyuki walked through the kitchen, running her hand along the granite countertops. "This is extraordinary. Our mothers really went all out."
"They wanted you to travel in comfort and safety." Hiruzen showed them various features, the entertainment system, the climate controls, the Pokemon care station equipped with basic medical supplies. "Everything's designed for long-term travel. You could theoretically live in this for years if necessary."
"Not that I recommend that," he added with a smile. "But the option exists."
Kasumi had claimed the stairs and was already exploring the upper floor. Her voice drifted down: "These bedrooms are amazing! Each one is the size of my room at home!"
"The spatial enhancement is quite impressive," Kiyomi agreed. She'd pulled out her tablet and was taking notes. "I assume there are technical specifications available? I'd like to understand how the compression ratios work."
"I have documentation I can provide." Hiruzen led them back downstairs and outside. "Now, the vehicle can be driven normally when you need to travel by road. But for situations where that's impractical, like boarding a ferry or storing it in a standard parking space, you can compress it."
He showed them a control on the keychain. "Press this button, and the entire Mobile Home compresses down to a container roughly the size of a large suitcase. The compression is stable indefinitely, and reversing it takes about thirty seconds."
"That's incredible technology," Miyuki said.
"It's the same principle as Pokeballs but applied to vehicles and structures." Hiruzen handed the keys to Sasuke. "I'll leave you four to explore more thoroughly. Take your time getting familiar with everything. When you're ready to begin your journey, just let me know and I'll help you with the initial departure."
He left them alone with their new mobile home. Sasuke stood in the garage holding keys that represented freedom and adventure and responsibility all at once.
"Our mothers really thought of everything," he said quietly.
"They wanted us to have what they had," Miyuki replied. "A journey together. A space that's truly ours. The means to pursue our goals without limitations."
"It's perfect," Kasumi declared, emerging from her second exploration of the upper floor. "I already claimed the bedroom with the best morning light for Pokemon grooming."
"I'll take the one with the office attachment," Kiyomi said. "Need space for my research equipment."
"That leaves the third bedroom for me," Miyuki said. "Which works perfectly since it's adjacent to the Pokemon care station."
They all looked at Sasuke, who realized he was apparently taking the ground floor sleeping arrangement. Which made sense, he'd be driving most often, and being near the driver's area would be practical.
"Ground floor works for me," he confirmed.
"Then it's settled." Kiyomi pulled out her phone and opened a map application. "So where do we go first? Pewter City is further north and has Gym Leader Gaara, Rock-type specialist."
"Pewter makes sense as a first destination," Sasuke said. "Rock-type is a solid opening challenge."
"And there are Contest facilities in Pewter," Kasumi added. "I can start training for Cerulean City's Contest while we're there."
"Plus the Pewter Museum of Science has extensive fossil collections," Miyuki said. "Good research opportunities for Kiyomi."
"Then it's decided." Sasuke looked at the Mobile Home, their home for the foreseeable future. "We leave tomorrow morning. That gives us today to fully stock the RV, get familiar with all its systems, and prepare properly."
"Tomorrow morning," his companions echoed.
They stood together in the garage, four people who'd been strangers a week ago and were now bound together by licenses, by a mobile home, by the deliberate plans of their mothers, and by their own slowly developing bonds.