Trainer was never a path ordinary families could easily afford. For children born into common households, dreaming of becoming a Trainer was often just that—a dream. Even selling everything a family owned might not be enough to cover the terrifying cost of Pokémon rations, let alone top-tier energy cubes. When the aunties truly understood the price of those top-level cubes, they were left completely stunned, their worldview quietly collapsing under the weight of reality.
Seeing their reactions, Su Yu couldn't help but speak up calmly. In his view, the price being high wasn't a bad thing at all. Instead, it was opportunity. He told the girls working with him that if they stayed by his side, learned properly, and worked hard, he would teach them everything he knew. Once they obtained senior breeder certificates, they could open breeding houses of their own, customize energy cubes, and carve out stable, prosperous futures. It wasn't empty encouragement—it was a clear path forward. Hearing this, the girls nodded seriously. They had already resolved to learn from Su Yu for years to come, mastering formulas, developing their own techniques, and eventually breaking free from ordinary lives. Wealth, freedom, and dignity no longer felt unreachable.
With that, Su Yu waved away the heavy talk. Tonight was for celebration. He called Aunt Wang and Aunt Zhang to sit down and enjoy the meal properly, raising a glass of juice to everyone. Laughter filled the room as glasses clinked together, the atmosphere warm and lively. After the feast, bellies full and spirits high, everyone dispersed to rest.
Back at the breeding house, Su Yu resumed his routine, starting with bathing Pikachu and Ralts. He had a strict rule—no baths meant no bed privileges. Fortunately, both Pokémon cooperated well and weren't afraid of water. It was during this process that Su Yu noticed something strange. The newly hatched Charmander with golden eyes didn't fear water at all. In fact, it seemed to enjoy it. Even when its tail was submerged, the flame burned brighter than ever. The sight made Su Yu freeze in place, excitement surging through him. Was this the result of its genetic mutation? Immunity—or resistance—to water? Combined with its dual Abilities, this little Charmander might possess terrifying potential. With proper training, becoming champion-level was no longer just fantasy.
After bathing the Pokémon, Su Yu carried them back to his room. Curled comfortably in his arms, Ralts suddenly began to sing. The melody was soft and beautiful, carrying a strange, soothing power that drifted far into the night. Su Yu gently rubbed its head, not interrupting. Singing like this meant Ralts was in a particularly good mood. Once back in the room, Su Yu laid the little ones down and quietly listened as Ralts continued singing, the unfamiliar tune strangely calming. Before he knew it, sleep claimed him.
What Su Yu didn't realize was that this song wasn't just idle humming—it was a call. The melody traveled far beyond the breeding house, crossing the quiet night and reaching the forest near the city. There, a uniquely colored Gardevoir stood listening. Its body was black, elegant and solemn, like a queen of the night. Around it stood a Gallade, two Kirlia, and another Gardevoir—a small but complete family.
Through telepathy, the Shiny Gardevoir spoke to Gallade, recognizing the voice immediately. It was their youngest sister. The Gallade confirmed it, understanding that the song was a summons. After a brief exchange, they decided to respond. For years, the siblings had wandered together, rescuing abandoned Ralts and protecting them. Some had been entrusted to humans, believing that only under human care could they live peacefully. They had stayed in this area for one reason alone—waiting in case their youngest sister ever called out to them again.
Now, she finally had.
The decision was made to leave at dawn. It was too late to travel that night, especially with young Pokémon in tow. The Kirlia and Ralts nearby buzzed with excitement, eyes shining at the thought of reunion. Tomorrow, they would go see her.
Unaware of any of this, Su Yu slept soundly. Morning came quietly, and he was soon awakened by the familiar chaos of Pokémon and children. After washing up, he headed downstairs where Xiaoyu and the others had already arrived, energy cubes prepared and ready. After greeting them, Su Yu began assigning tasks. He told Xiaoyu that a construction team would arrive soon to build a warehouse, one that would allow wild Pokémon to feed themselves. He asked her to coordinate with the builders and explain the layout clearly.
Another busy day had begun—one that would unknowingly bring unexpected visitors to Su Yu's doorstep.