Pokemon University

Chapter 3

The Tropius landed in the university field, and all the students dismounted with chattering excitement, discussing their new Pokémon. Professor Satoshi recalled the Tropius into their Poké Balls, addressing the class with a calm voice. "Class is over for today. You can all head home... except for Liko and Grey."

As the rest of the students went away, Roy looking back at Liko with concern. Liko met his gaze, giving a reassuring nod as if to say, I'm alright. Understanding, Roy gave a small smile and headed off, leaving only Liko, Grey, and Professor Satoshi behind.

Once the area was empty, Professor said, "Would either of you like to explain what happened back there? Why did you provoke an Aggron?" Liko opened her mouth to respond, but no words came out. The memory of the angry Aggron still replayed in her mind, "Both of you, follow me."

The walk to the office was steeped in silence. When they arrived, Professor Satoshi motioned for Grey to enter first. A few minutes passed, and Grey reemerged, looking very annoyed. Then, Satoshi called for Liko. She entered the office, nerves on edge as she took a seat in front of his desk.

Before she could even begin, Professor Satoshi spoke. "Grey has already told me everything." The unexpected statement made Liko's eyes widen in surprise.

Professor Satoshi gave a slight smile. "You're not in trouble, Liko. You can go now." Relief washed over her, and she got up to leave. Just as she turned, Satoshi spoke again, his tone lighter. "Oh, and Liko, tomorrow, we'll be going on a field trip to Pewter Museum to study Pokémon history."

Liko's face lit up with excitement. She bowed deeply to Professor Satoshi, her voice containing her excitement. "Thank you, Professor!" She practically bolted out of the office, rushing down the hall, eagerly thinking about the upcoming trip.

Upon reaching home, she opened the door to find everything just as she'd left it. The card was still on the counter, and the note still stuck to the fridge. This time, however, her heart didn't feel the ache she'd experienced before. Instead, she hurried to her room, changed out of her uniform, and threw herself onto her bed.

Her thoughts drifted to the Pewter Museum. She'd dreamed of visiting since she was little, begging her parents repeatedly for a trip, but the answer had always been a firm no because of their ban on Pokémon. She smiled to herself, still exciting. Pewter Museum was in Pewter City, the home of Brock, the famous Pokémon breeder and Gym Leader. 

And then there was Professor Satoshi...

Who was he, really? He had entered her life so suddenly, turning her distant dream into a reality. And, oddly, he bore a familiar resemblance to the legendary Ash Ketchum, though without the iconic cap and Pikachu.

Still, the details didn't matter to her now.

 Smiling to herself, she closed her eyes and drifted off.