Chapter 22: Chapter - 22
3rd person POV –
It was a tranquil evening in Pallet Town when a series of lively online discussions and a few eye-catching articles about an impressive young trainer named Jordan from Sinnoh caught the attention of two old rivals: Red and Blue. Red was relaxing at home, taking a rare break from his intense training regimen, while Blue was at his grandfather's lab, discussing Pokémon research with Professor Oak.
Professor Oak's Lab
"Hey, Gramps," Blue called out, leaning over his tablet. "Have you heard of this kid from Sinnoh? He's been dominating Gym after Gym, and the online boards are buzzing with highlights of his battles."
Professor Oak looked up from his notes, a spark of recognition in his eyes. "Ah, Jordan from Sinnoh, yes. He's been making waves. Professor Rowan even mentioned him in a call last week."
Blue grinned, calling over his son, Gary, and daughter, Daisy, to watch some of Jordan's battle highlights. "Look at this, guys. This kid's got some serious skills."
Gary leaned over, his eyes wide. "Whoa, Dad! He's incredible! Look at his Gabite's power and control. And that Infernape with blue flames—unreal!"
Daisy, a successful coordinator in Kanto and Johto, nodded. "His Pokémon are beautiful in battle—so confident and strong. You don't see that kind of connection between trainer and Pokémon often."
As they watched, Gary's admiration grew. "I'm studying this guy's moves. I want to battle like him when I start my journey next year."
Blue chuckled. "Jordan's setting a high bar. This kid could give me a run for my money if he ever makes his way to Kanto."
Professor Oak listened intently, pleased to see his grandson so inspired. He watched the young trainer's unique strategies, impressed by his precise understanding of type matchups and battle terrain. "That boy's approach reminds me of the passion you two had when you started your journeys," he said, looking at Blue. "Jordan's innovative and dedicated, and it seems he's not just an exceptional trainer but also involved in groundbreaking research. I heard from Rowan he's even developing a Pokédex app. That kind of spirit is exactly what the Pokémon world needs."
Blue nodded, glancing at Gary, whose eyes were glued to the screen. "He's got me curious, that's for sure. I think Red should see this. He'll be just as intrigued."
Ketchum residence –
Meanwhile, at home, Red was watching some of Jordan's battles with his wife, Delia, and their son, Ash. He was especially captivated by Jordan's Infernape and the way it handled opponents with its intensely hot, blue flames.
Ash's face lit up as he watched Jordan's Glaceon and Froslass execute complex moves against Candice's team. "Wow, Dad! Jordan's Ice-types are so cool! When I go on my journey, I want to have Pokémon that strong."
Red grinned at Ash's enthusiasm, pride gleaming in his eyes. "He's impressive, that's for sure. Look at the control he has over his team—it takes a lot of hard work to reach that level. He's even surpassed my record for earning Gym Badges. That's no small feat."
Just then, Delia, who had been watching quietly, spoke up, her voice tinged with surprise. "You know, Red, Jordan is more connected to us than you realize."
Red turned to her, eyebrows raised. "What do you mean?"
Delia smiled softly. "Jordan is my nephew. My older sister, Lily, moved to Sinnoh for her work at Professor Rowan's lab, and… well, Jordan's her son. He's family."
Red blinked in surprise, the realization hitting him like a revelation. "Wait… Lily's son? I didn't realize. I hadn't heard from Lily since we got married—I didn't know she had a son already making a name for himself."
Ash's eyes widened as he looked at his mom and dad. "So, Jordan's my cousin?"
Delia nodded, smiling. "Yes, he is."
A few days later, Red and Blue met at Professor Oak's lab to watch more of Jordan's battles together, along with their children. They hadn't been able to stop thinking about Jordan since learning he was family, and they were even more invested now.
As they watched a replay of Jordan's recent Snowpoint Gym battle against Candice, they observed his clever strategies and remarkable control over his team. Each of Jordan's Pokémon demonstrated a level of confidence and strength that was rare to see in such a young trainer.
Blue couldn't help but smirk. "Red, this kid's got your determination and Rowan's brains. No wonder he's turning heads."
Red nodded, his gaze never leaving the screen. "It's amazing to see such skill and discipline. Jordan's raising the standards for trainers, and he's only just begun. He's using every type strategically, and look at how his Infernape operates—every move is calculated, yet natural."
Gary, who had been watching intently, turned to his dad with a competitive glint in his eye. "I can't wait to start my journey and train like Jordan. Do you think I could catch up to him one day?"
Blue grinned. "If you're determined enough and put in the hard work, Gary. Jordan's setting a high bar, but it's a good target for you to aim for."
Daisy chimed in, her admiration clear. "And his Ice-types—Glaceon, Froslass—they have the poise of seasoned battlers. As a coordinator, I can see how much trust and bond they share with him. Jordan doesn't just command them; he connects with them on a level most trainers can only dream of."
As the replay showed Jordan's Infernape going up against Candice's Abomasnow, Gary's excitement was palpable. "Look at Infernape! I've never seen blue flames like that—it's like he's unlocked a whole new level of power!"
Ash, sitting beside Gary, clenched his fists, his eyes shining with determination. "When I go on my journey next year, I'll train my Pokémon to be just as strong as Jordan's."
Watching Jordan's mastery also piqued the interest of the Elite Four. Lance, the Dragon-type champion, had come by the lab to discuss some Pokémon research and was drawn in by Jordan's unique team dynamic.
Lance commented as he watched, "Jordan's strength lies in his versatility and adaptability. Not only does he understand each Pokémon's abilities, but he also uses them in ways that defy traditional strategies. A trainer with that level of understanding and creativity could one day rival the Elite Four."
Professor Oak nodded in agreement. "Jordan's success is no accident. He has both the mind of a researcher and the spirit of a trainer. He's an exceptional talent, and Rowan has spoken highly of his dedication. If he continues this path, he may very well leave a lasting mark on the Pokémon world."
Bruno, the Fighting-type specialist, crossed his arms, studying Jordan's Infernape with keen interest. "That Infernape of his—it's an exceptional display of raw power tempered by discipline. He's pushed it beyond its natural limits. I'd like to see how that strength holds up against other fighting types."
Lorelei, the Ice-type expert, watched with admiration as Jordan's Glaceon held its own against Candice's team. "It's rare to see a trainer so in sync with their Ice-types, especially a young one. Jordan's shown that even younger trainers can bring out the best in these challenging Pokémon."
As the evening went on, Red, Blue, their children, and Professor Oak continued watching Jordan's battles, analyzing his strategies and Pokémon bond. By the end, they were left with a sense of both pride and excitement. Jordan wasn't just another promising trainer; he was family, a rising star with the potential to reshape the future of Pokémon training.
Red placed a hand on Ash's shoulder, a look of pride in his eyes. "One day, Ash, you'll go on your journey. When you do, remember the way Jordan battles. It's not just about winning—it's about the bond you share with your Pokémon. That's the foundation of true strength."
Ash nodded, taking his father's words to heart. "I will, Dad. I'll train hard and become a great trainer, just like you… and Jordan."
Blue chuckled, looking at Gary. "You too, Gary. Remember, strength is nothing without respect for your Pokémon. Jordan's the proof of that."
Gary's eyes were determined. "I understand, Dad. I'll make you proud."
As they left the lab that night, Red and Blue couldn't help but feel that the future of their legacies was in good hands. With young trainers like Jordan setting a new standard, they knew Ash and Gary would be inspired to reach even greater heights, carrying forward the spirit of competition, respect, and excellence that had defined their journeys.
In a grand studio in Jubilife City, Sinnoh, reporters and media personalities were abuzz, ready for a global broadcast. The panel was made up of trainers, champions, professors, and members of the Elite Four from all over the Pokémon world, who had gathered to discuss the rising stars of the current generation. With increasing interest in young trainers and the unique approaches they were bringing to battles, an interview was organized to cover the accomplishments and influences of these promising trainers. The buzz among fans and experts alike was undeniable, especially with the impressive achievements of one particular Sinnoh trainer, Jordan, who had recently earned all eight main Gym Badges in record time.
Opening Remarks: Rising Stars of the Pokémon World
Reporter Grace Marlin began the discussion with excitement. "Welcome, everyone! We're thrilled to have you with us for this global special on rising trainers, where we'll be talking about incredible young talents from various regions. Today, our panel includes some of the most esteemed trainers, Elite Four members, champions, and professors in the world. A special thanks to our viewers tuning in from Kalos, Unova, Alola, and beyond!"
The camera panned across the panel, showing familiar faces: Lance, the Dragon-type Champion of Kanto; Steven Stone, the Hoenn Champion; Diantha, the elegant Champion of Kalos; Professor Oak from Kanto; and Professor Kukui from Alola, among others.
Grace continued, "Let's get right into it. One name that's been making waves is Jordan from Sinnoh. His recent Gym circuit success has left quite an impact on fans, and he's caught the attention of many of you here today. Not only did he achieve his badges faster than expected, but he's also brought in a tech-savvy twist with his app development, which is transforming the way trainers in Sinnoh and beyond connect with their Pokémon data."
Lance nodded, leaning forward. "It's rare to see a young trainer dominate the Gym circuit with such precision and skill. I've watched some of his battles, and his approach reminds me of some of the top-tier trainers I've faced. His Infernape, in particular, has a distinctive blue-flame attack—a true testament to the strength of his bond with his Pokémon."
Steven Stone joined in, impressed by the strategic mind Jordan had displayed. "He's not just a powerhouse trainer; he's a strategist. His use of Ice-types in particular is remarkable—considering Sinnoh's often challenging environments, he's taken advantage of the region's climate to train his Ice-type Pokémon like Glaceon and Froslass. Watching him was like seeing a chess player on the field, planning several moves."
Diantha, the Kalos Champion, smiled thoughtfully. "What I admire most about Jordan is that he isn't solely focused on winning. He understands his Pokémon, both in terms of their strengths and their unique personalities. As someone passionate about coordinating and understanding the artistic side of Pokémon, it's clear he's forging deep, meaningful bonds with his team. That's what makes a champion."
The Technological Leap: Jordan's App
Reporter Grace highlighted one of Jordan's notable contributions to the Pokémon world: his app. "Jordan's also pioneered a Pokémon tracking and training app that's gaining popularity among young trainers. With more features to support Pokémon health, move analysis, and team synergy, it's shaping up to be a revolutionary tool."
Professor Oak nodded with enthusiasm. "It's a game-changer. What Jordan has done is harness data in a way that's accessible to trainers of all experience levels. By allowing trainers to track a Pokémon's progress and get feedback on their training routines, it enhances the partnership between Pokémon and the trainer. Professor Rowan is especially proud of his work, and I can see this app changing the way we all look at Pokémon training in the coming years."
Professor Kukui chimed in from Alola, where the connection to Pokémon is central to the region's culture. "I think it's inspiring that young trainers can use this app as a guide to understanding their Pokémon better. In Alola, we encourage trainers to think of their Pokémon as family, and Jordan's app promotes that mindset by offering insights that can help trainers nurture and grow their teams."
Grace turned back to Lance. "Do you think tools like these could impact even elite-level battles?"
Lance nodded thoughtfully. "Absolutely. Knowledge is power in any battle, and if trainers start using these tools from the beginning, we could see a new generation of elite trainers who understand their Pokémon on an even deeper level. It adds a layer of sophistication to training, especially for those aiming to reach the upper echelons of competitive battling."
Grace continued, "Jordan's achievements in Sinnoh have been impressive, but he's not the only young trainer making waves. Across the globe, we're seeing incredible trainers rising. Let's talk about some of them—who's catching your eye?"
Diantha spoke up first. "In Kalos, we have a young trainer named Fleur who's making a name for herself in both battles and contests. She's bringing a balanced approach that combines beauty and strength, much like Jordan. It's exciting to see this new generation embracing both sides of Pokémon training."
Steven nodded in agreement. "There's also a young trainer named Brendan from Hoenn. He's shown a level of patience and strategy that's impressive for someone so young. His team is incredibly diverse, and he has a particular talent for getting the most out of his water types. Like Jordan, he seems to be creating his path and has an unconventional style that works in his Favor."
Professor Oak added, "And let's not forget about Ethan from Johto. He's been steadily making a name for himself, and he's known for his ingenuity. He's not afraid to mix things up and try unconventional techniques, similar to the way Jordan leverages unique moves with his Pokémon. This generation is truly innovative."
Grace nodded. "With all these rising trainers, do you think we're entering a new era of Pokémon training?"
Lance responded, "Definitely. It's an exciting time. Each of these young trainers brings something unique, whether it's new technology, as in Jordan's case, or a deep cultural understanding of Pokémon like we're seeing in Alola and Kalos. The future is bright."
One of the reporters shifted the focus back to the influence Jordan was having specifically on the Sinnoh region and beyond. "With Jordan's, Ethan's, Fleur's, and others' impressive Gym circuit in such a short period, we're seeing the pressure it's putting on other regions' Gyms and trainers. How do you think that impacts the broader competitive world?"
Steven Stone replied, "Jordan's, Brenden's, and others' dedication has not only raised the bar in Sinnoh but also in Hoenn and across the regions. Trainers everywhere are watching him and pushing themselves to be better. When someone sets a new standard, it challenges everyone else to meet it or exceed it."
Lance nodded. "I think the Elite Four members and Gym Leaders in other regions feel a renewed sense of purpose. As a trainer who's challenging conventions, Jordan motivates all of us. Even champions can learn from how he's brought creativity and innovation to battling. It's forcing us to think more about our strategies and how we prepare."
Diantha added, "In Kalos, we're seeing a spike in young trainers coming to our Gyms with more awareness and tactical knowledge. They're not just relying on strength but understanding how different strategies work, which I think Jordan has inspired."
Grace then turned to Professor Kukui. "And in Alola, is Jordan's and others influence being felt as well?"
Kukui smiled. "Oh. Kids in Alola are fired up by his battles. They're learning how different types can work together and using his app to explore the bonds they share with their own Pokémon. His success is motivating young trainers to think differently about their journeys."
With excitement filling the room, Grace leaned in for one of her final questions. "With all of this new talent coming to light, do you all think we're seeing the birth of a new generation of champions?"
Lance replied, "Without a doubt. Trainers like Jordan, Brendan, Fleur, and Ethan are all contenders in the making. They have the skills, the bond with their Pokémon, and the drive to push themselves to the limit. It's only a matter of time before we see one of them become a champion."
Steven nodded, "And it's refreshing to see so much diversity in their styles. They're redefining what it means to be a champion. These young trainers are showing us that it's about more than just winning—it's about innovation, adaptability, and a deep respect for Pokémon."
Professor Oak finished with a smile, "This generation is doing something truly extraordinary. They're blending tradition with innovation, respecting the past while exploring new possibilities. As a professor, it's a joy to witness, and I'm excited to see where it leads them."
Grace wrapped up the session, smiling warmly. "Thank you to our panelists for such an insightful discussion. The world is indeed watching, and it's thrilling to see where trainers like Jordan and others will take us in the future of Pokémon training. For now, we'll keep cheering them on, and perhaps one day, they'll sit here as champions sharing their wisdom with the next generation. Thank you all for joining us today!"
As the lights dimmed, the world was left with a renewed excitement for the future of Pokémon, inspired by the remarkable young trainers like Jordan who were redefining the journey.
In Pallet Town, Delia Ketchum watched the broadcast on her TV with an amused smile. Her son Ash was bouncing around the room, reenacting some of the epic battles he had just seen on screen, while her husband, Red, sat nearby, equally engrossed in watching the rising stars in the Pokémon world. But one particular trainer had caught Delia's attention: her nephew Jordan. As Ash rambled on, Delia's mind drifted, and she decided it was the perfect time to call her sister, Lily, who was currently in Sinnoh.
Delia dialed Lily's number, and soon, her sister's familiar voice came through.
"Hey, Delia! I was just thinking about you!" Lily greeted warmly, sounding lively despite the time difference.
"Lily! Oh, it's so good to hear your voice. I just had to call after watching that interview," Delia said, smiling as she felt a familiar sisterly excitement bubble up.
Lily laughed softly. "You watched it? Oh, wasn't it exciting? The whole region's buzzing about Jordan, especially after his eighth Gym badge!"
"Oh, they are, believe me. And not just in Sinnoh! The discussion panel was full of big names talking about him. Lance, Diantha, and even Professor Oak—they're all so impressed with his strength and innovation. But tell me, how is Jordan? It sounds like he's been pushing himself a lot," Delia asked, her voice tinged with both admiration and motherly concern.
Lily nodded, her smile growing proud. "He's doing great, Delia. Really. All that training has paid off, and he's more determined than ever. He's been preparing for the Sinnoh League with such focus; sometimes, I'm amazed at how dedicated he is."
Delia chuckled. "That doesn't surprise me, considering he takes after you and James. But you know, I think he might also have a bit of his cousin Ash's energy!"
Lily laughed. "Maybe so! You know, Delia, I spent some time with him on his last break. I went to meet him after his Gym victory, and we spent a week together."
"Oh, how wonderful! Did you two do anything special?" Delia asked, her curiosity piqued.
Lily paused and looked around her room as if checking for something. "Well, actually, I caught a new Pokémon while I was there. Here, let me show you!"
Delia watched as Lily adjusted her camera, then held up a Poké Ball. With a tap, she released a Drapion that appeared on the screen, stretching and giving a friendly wave with one of its pincers.
"A Drapion! Oh, she's gorgeous!" Delia exclaimed. "How did that happen?"
"It was so unexpected! We came across her and her injured baby Skorupi, and well… you know me. I couldn't just leave them," Lily said, stroking Drapion affectionately. "She's been an incredible partner ever since."
Delia smiled, feeling a pang of longing to be there with her sister. "You've always had such a big heart, Lily. It's no wonder Drapion joined you. And I'm sure Jordan was thrilled to see you again."
Lily's smile turned a bit mischievous. "Oh, he was! You know, he's even been sharing some of his inventions with me. You should see these 'Dino Capsules' he's created."
"Dino Capsules?" Delia echoed, intrigued. "What do they do?"
Lily held up a small, cylindrical device, about the size of a thumb. "These things are amazing, Delia! He developed them himself. They can store almost anything and shrink it down to fit in your pocket. He's already using them to carry larger equipment and even entire shelters while he's on the road."
Delia's eyes widened in amazement. "He made that on his own? That's incredible!"
Lily nodded with a proud smile. "Yes, he did. He's always been resourceful, and with his eye for technology, he's managed to come up with solutions that most of us wouldn't even think of. You know, he's taken his journey beyond just battling—it's about exploring every aspect of the world and finding ways to make the journey easier for himself and his Pokémon."
Delia's heart swelled with pride. "You must be so proud, Lily. I mean, Ash already idolizes him—he's been talking non-stop about how he wants to train just as hard and be as innovative as Jordan. I think he's going to be his biggest fan at the Sinnoh League."
Lily laughed. "Oh, well, that brings me to what I wanted to ask. Delia, you, Red, and Ash must come to the Sinnoh League when it starts. I want you all there to cheer him on. It would mean the world to him—and to me."
"Oh, Lily, of course! Ash would be over the moon to see his cousin compete, and I think it'll be incredible for us to watch him too," Delia said, feeling excitement rise within her. "Plus, I'd love to catch up and finally see Sinnoh."
"Perfect! It's going to be held at Lily of the Valley Island. The whole region is gearing up for it, and with trainers like Jordan competing, it's going to be unforgettable. And having family there will make it even better for him."
"We wouldn't miss it for the world, Lily," Delia said warmly. "Jordan's not just a star in Sinnoh; he's inspired all of us. And I think seeing the family together will mean so much to him."
Lily nodded, her eyes glistening. "You're right, Delia. Family is everything. I can't wait for you all to see him in action."
In a quiet grove in Kalos, Fleur adjusted her hat, the sunlight streaming through the trees casting a delicate glow on her fair skin. She'd always had a natural grace, but here in the calm before her next big challenge, she looked both elegant and fierce. Fleur's journey had been meteoric, and she knew it. It wasn't just the press or the attention from regional champions—it was her ambition that fuelled her progress. And that meant looking out not just at her next badge, but at trainers around the world who shared her intensity.
Recently, whispers of Jordan from Sinnoh had reached Kalos. Word of his gym victories, his sheer force in battle, and his innovative, inventive mind were turning him into a regional sensation. Fleur knew he was serious competition. She hadn't met him personally, but there was a sense of kinship in their mutual drive to succeed. Fleur was determined to prove that Kalos would not be overshadowed.
Across the sea in Hoenn, Tobias stood on the rocky shores of Mossdeep City, his Gardevoir beside him, both staring into the endless blue. Tobias was an enigmatic force, a trainer with an almost mystical connection to his Pokémon. His bond with Gardevoir had been strengthened through countless encounters with powerful trainers. His thoughts drifted to the recent exploits of Jordan in Sinnoh.
"Interesting," he murmured, watching the waves crash. Jordan's rise intrigued him. A trainer with strength was one thing, but a trainer who innovated, who could out-think opponents and come prepared with new strategies, was something else entirely. Tobias was competitive, yet he respected talent, and he was curious to see how Jordan would stack up against the best. It was rare to encounter a rising star that embodied both intelligence and raw power, and he was intrigued by the potential clash of styles.
Meanwhile, in the bustling cityscape of Castelia in Unova, a young, streetwise trainer named Cameron was tearing through battles with an electric energy all his own. His team was small but mighty, handpicked and honed through hours of street battles. Cameron had heard about Jordan from his fellow trainers, and he couldn't help but feel both a twinge of jealousy and excitement. He admired how Jordan's style was all his own—sharp, calculated, yet unrelenting.
Cameron was a fighter by nature, and he wanted a chance to prove himself against someone of Jordan's caliber. Trainers like Jordan didn't come around every day, and he respected anyone who could shake things up. "One day," Cameron thought, smirking to himself. "I'll be the one they're all talking about. But for now, it's good to know there's someone out there pushing the boundaries."
In Alola, a trainer named Keoni was lounging under the shade of a palm tree, his Alolan Raichu perched on his shoulder, eyes half-closed in the island's warmth. The pace in Alola was different, but Keoni's approach to battling was anything but slow. He'd been tearing up the local leagues, challenging Kahunas and trainers alike with a joyful fierceness that set him apart.
When he first heard about Jordan's journey, Keoni chuckled. He respected talent, and the thought of a trainer rising so quickly made him a little more excited to keep pushing his limits. "Jordan, huh?" he mused aloud, his Raichu perking up at the name. "Sounds like someone who could give me a challenge."
In Galar, a steel-nerved trainer named Evelyn was hard at work in the Wild Area, honing her Pokémon's abilities with an intensity that rivaled the storms that swept across the plains. She was well aware of the trainer's making waves in other regions, and Jordan's name had come up more than once in her circle. Unlike many others, Evelyn wasn't just impressed—she was driven.
For her, Jordan represented a new era of trainers who didn't just rely on brute force but on strategy, creativity, and adaptability. Evelyn's ultimate goal was to go far beyond Galar's regional championships, and trainers like Jordan spurred her on, reminding her that there were always new mountains to climb. "If we ever meet in battle, I'll be ready," Evelyn promised herself, her eyes hard and unwavering. "Let's see if he is too."
In Johto, a prodigy named Ryota was quietly making a name for himself, winning over fans with a fierce passion and unwavering determination. He had heard of Jordan, of course, and a fire lit within him at the thought of a fellow prodigy making strides in Sinnoh. Johto and Sinnoh had always held a unique respect for each other, and Ryota felt it was his duty to represent Johto with pride.
Jordan's journey was a testament to skill and dedication, and Ryota respected that. He didn't see Jordan as competition but as a comrade of sorts, a reminder that their generation had something unique to offer. He looked forward to the day they might meet, not with animosity, but with a sense of kinship and respect.
All around the world, trainers like Fleur, Tobias, Cameron, Keoni, Evelyn, and Ryota were rising, each with their dreams and ambitions. Each one knew that being a true Pokémon Master meant not just overcoming your limitations, but testing yourself against the best trainers from every corner of the globe. Jordan's story had resonated with them, a signal that they were all part of something bigger, a generation that was taking the Pokémon world by storm in their unique ways.
And somewhere, in Sinnoh, Jordan was preparing for his next challenge, unaware that his journey had already begun to inspire trainers everywhere. The world was watching, and these rising stars knew that their paths were destined to cross in the arenas, gyms, and leagues that defined their generation.