Aiden stepped out of the Pokémon Centre, the sliding doors whispering closed behind him.
The late morning sunlight bathed Valora City in a warm, golden hue. He adjusted the strap of his travel bag across his shoulder, his mind already racing.
"Two days..."
"Two days before my first Gym challenge. Enough time to sharpen edges. Enough time to grow."
Valora City sprawled before him — not a massive metropolis, but wide and open, edged by nature's grasp. Dense forests loomed to the west and south, while the mountains of Grayspire Ridge stood sentinel to the north, and the River Helien flowed lazily eastward like a silver ribbon.
His boots clicked lightly on the cobbled streets as he made his way toward the Town Hall, located several blocks away from the Pokémon Centre.
The Task Centre, he had been told, was nestled inside, a part of the city's official administration.
Passing shops, small cafés, and early-bird trainers walking with their Pokémon partners, Aiden absorbed every detail. The city thrummed with a quiet life of its own. It wasn't like the bustling Jubilife City he remembered from the past. Valora moved slower — steadier.
The Town Hall was a grand old structure of gray stone, with ivy clinging to parts of its facade. A wide banner flapped lazily overhead:
"Trainer Task Registry — Support the League, Support Your Journey!"
He smiled faintly and pushed through the heavy wooden doors.
The hall smelled faintly of parchment and polished wood. Trainers of all ages and stages lined up at various counters. A wide, digital noticeboard flickered against the far wall, listing tasks and their difficulty levels:
Rookie Tasks (for new trainers)
Junior Tasks
Intermediate Tasks
Senior Tasks
Above them, smaller screens displayed the words:
"Only tasks matching your League Certification Level can be taken."
The line for Rookie Registration was mercifully short. Aiden queued patiently, his mind rehearsing everything.
When it was finally his turn, he stepped up to a wide desk where a registrar waited — an older man with sharp eyes, dressed in an official dark blue uniform with the League's insignia stitched neatly on the shoulder.
The man glanced up at him.
"Name and Certification?" he asked crisply.
Aiden straightened his back, his voice firm.
"Aiden Frostveil. Rookie-level trainer."
The registrar tapped a few keys, scanning the League's database. A moment later, Aiden's trainer ID flashed on the desk's small screen — a minimalistic profile photo, basic stats, and League number.
The man gave a small grunt of approval.
"New blood, huh?" he said, scribbling something on a clipboard. "Just finished your Gym registration too, I see."
Aiden gave a slight nod.
"You know the rules for task-taking?" the man asked, clicking a pen.
Aiden smiled lightly.
"Basic idea: I can only take Rookie-class tasks for now. Need to report after completion, and payments made afterward."
The registrar nodded. "Good enough. You're also responsible for any collateral damage during tasks. You break it, you pay for it."
He handed Aiden a small booklet — a Rookie Trainer Task Guide.
"Flip to the next screen. Select up to three tasks."
The big digital board above them refreshed, listing available Rookie-level tasks for today:
Help relocate wild Bidoof nesting near irrigation systems.
Assist in gathering medicinal herbs from the eastern woods.
Capture loose Starlys for a local ranch.
Patrol and monitor abandoned Berry Fields for pest Pokémon.
Test the new automated Pokéball launcher prototype at the training fields.
Help restock a local Pokemart's inventory — heavy lifting involved.
Escort a caravan transporting Pokémon food supplies to the south checkpoint.
Clear debris from a collapsed hiking trail used by trainers.
Locate a missing Growlithe lost in the northern woods.
Help a beginner trainer learn basic Pokémon training.
Monitor Ponyta herds at east pastures and ensure none are injured.
Help paint murals in the new Trainer's Plaza — no battling required.
Aiden studied the list carefully.
Some tasks were simple labor jobs. Others offered a chance to battle or capture wild Pokémon. He knew what he needed — battle experience and chance encounters.
He quickly selected:
Task 1: Help relocate wild Bidoof (Good warm-up; coordination and mild battling).
Task 9: Locate a missing Growlithe (Tracking and retrieval; real-world test).
Task 11: Monitor Ponyta herds.
Confirming his selection, he pressed his Trainer ID against the registration scanner.
A faint beep. His tasks were locked in.
The registrar raised an eyebrow as he printed Aiden's task slips.
"Choose a fair mix. You're aiming to train too, huh?"
Aiden accepted the slips with a light grin.
"Every day's a battle."
The registrar chuckled dryly. "Good attitude. Don't die,"
Stepping out of the Town Hall again, Aiden exhaled slowly, studying the task slips.
The city stretched before him under the noon sun, and the forested fields beyond beckoned.
"Two days to the Gym battle..."
"Today's about sharpening both myself and my team."
"And if fate allows..."
"We'll have a new comrade by sunset."
Tightening the straps of his bag, he set off toward the first location — the irrigation fields where the Bidoof had overpopulated.
Task 1: Wild Bidoof Relocation – Irrigation Fields
The sun hung high overhead by the time Aiden reached the edge of Valora's sprawling irrigation system. Long, shallow trenches crisscrossed the fertile land, threading through fields like veins. Water trickled lazily through them, nourishing rows of berry bushes, vegetable patches, and grain stalks.
But something was wrong.
Near one major canal, the ground had collapsed into a muddy mess, and a group of wild Bidoof — perhaps fifteen strong — had built a haphazard dam from broken branches, stones, and sheer determination. Water overflowed, flooding a patch of fields and threatening to spill onto the main road.
Aiden knelt briefly, studying the situation.
"Classic," he muttered with a smirk. "Bidoof instincts... but wrong place, wrong time."
He pulled two Pokéballs from his belt.
"Budew, Sneasel — let's work."
Twin flashes of light appeared, revealing his small Budew bobbing lightly on stubby legs, and Sneasel crouched low, sharp eyes glinting.
Aiden pointed toward the dam.
"Goal: dismantle the dam carefully. We need to guide the Bidoof back upstream where they belong. No harm. Calm movements."
Budew chirped, and Sneasel flicked one claw in acknowledgment.
He strategized quickly. "Budew, you're the heart. Use Leech Seed and Stun Spore lightly — create gentle nudges. Sneasel, you're the edges. Quick Attack if any scatter too far. Herd, don't hunt."
They moved.
Budew waddled closer, sending thin vines twisting from her bud — gently latching onto nearby branches and yanking them free. As some Bidoof squeaked in alarm, a light Stun Spore mist drifted — not enough to paralyze, just enough to startle and slow.
Sneasel darted in smooth arcs, cutting off any Bidoof that tried to bolt sideways.
Aiden stayed back, issuing hand signals and soft words, his body language relaxed — making himself seem non-threatening.
Minutes ticked by. The dam sagged and broke apart under careful pressure, water rushing in a fresher current. The Bidoof, confused but unharmed, slowly began to migrate upstream, following the new flow instinctively.
Aiden exhaled slowly, watching the herd vanish into the wild brush.
Mud clung to his boots, but he smiled.
Task 1: Complete.
Locate the Missing Growlithe – Northern Woods
Wiping sweat from his brow, Aiden called back his partners, giving them both soft words of praise and a quick spritz from a healing spray for minor scrapes.
He checked his next task slip.
"Missing Pokémon: Growlithe. Northern woods. Last seen near Graybark Hollow entrance."
He adjusted his backpack and started northward, where the woods grew darker and thicker. The neat fields of Valora faded behind him as he crossed into wilder territory.
The forest air was cooler, filled with the scent of pine and moss. Shafts of golden light pierced the thick canopy overhead, dancing across the ground in shifting patterns.
Aiden moved carefully, boots crunching on the undergrowth, eyes sharp.
"Growlithe," he thought. "Loyal, but easily spooked when separated."
He knelt at a muddy patch, scanning.
Pawprints.
Small, light, four-toed — definitely canine. Still fresh.
He smiled slightly and pressed forward, following the trail.
Minutes later, he heard it — a soft, whimpering bark carried on the breeze.
His heart quickened.
Pushing through a tangle of ferns, he found it — a young Growlithe, tangled awkwardly in a discarded fishing net snagged on a fallen log. The poor thing growled weakly as he approached, baring small, sharp teeth, but its body trembled with exhaustion.
Aiden knelt low, hands open and nonthreatening.
"Easy, buddy," he murmured. "Not here to hurt you."
He released Budew again, gesturing softly.
"Use Cut — carefully."
Delicate green vines whipped forward, slicing the net cleanly without so much as brushing the Growlithe's fur.
The young Fire-type staggered free, then collapsed against Aiden's boots, panting heavily.
He smiled gently, reaching out.
After a tense moment... the Growlithe nudged into his hand, whining softly.
"You're alright now," Aiden said, scratching behind its ears. "Let's get you home."
He tapped a quick message into his PokéGear to notify the League handlers and secured the Growlithe in it's pokeball (Received from Task Centre).
Task 2: Complete.
Monitoring Ponyta Herds
The next morning was warm, but a gentle breeze carried the crisp scent of grass and the earthy smell of the pastures as Aiden made his way east, towards the wide rolling fields where the Ponyta herds roamed. The distant mountains of Grayspire Ridge loomed beyond the horizon, their peaks dusted with snow. The fields were dotted with small, rustic barns, each with a handful of Ranch Workers guiding and tending to the energetic, fire-tailed Ponyta that grazed and trotted in scattered groups.
Aiden's goal was simple: ensure that the herd was healthy, check for any injuries, and provide the necessary care for the young and the old. Ranchers would occasionally ask for a Trainer's assistance when something was amiss—whether it was a pony's flame flickering too weakly or a young one not quite catching up with the rest.
He found the Ranch Owner, a middle-aged man with sun-worn skin and a kind but firm demeanor, standing near a small group of Ponyta by a haystack. Aiden approached with a respectful nod.
"Morning," the Ranch Owner greeted him with a quick look. "You're the new kid helping out today, huh?"
"Yep," Aiden said with a smile. "I'm here to help check on the herd."
"Well, there's one that's been a little restless," the Ranch Owner said. "Follow me."
Aiden followed, his boots crunching against the soft grass. The Ranch Owner led him to the edge of the pasture where a small group of Ponyta stood, their fiery manes dancing in the breeze. However, one particular Ponyta caught Aiden's attention. It was much smaller than the others, its flame dancing weakly in comparison. The little one seemed anxious, its bright blue eyes flicking nervously to the larger, older ponies that grazed just out of its reach.
"It's been like this for a couple of days," the Ranch Owner said, sighing. "The little one's having trouble fitting in. She's scared, and it's slowing her down."
Aiden knelt down, his gaze softening as he watched the baby Ponyta shift nervously. He knew what it was like to feel out of place, to feel unsure. It was the same feeling he'd had when he first came to the city. Maybe that's why he couldn't help but feel a connection to the little Ponyta.
"Hey there," Aiden murmured, offering a hand. "It's okay, no one's going to hurt you. You can trust me."
The Ponyta flicked its ears, hesitating, but it didn't bolt or shy away. It took a tentative step forward.
"That's it," Aiden coaxed. "Just one step at a time."
He released Zubat from its Pokéball, the bat-like Pokémon hovering in the air as it chirped. It made a few cautious circles around the young Ponyta, its large eyes observing closely. Zubat was known for its keen sense of hearing and echolocation, so it immediately sensed the little Ponyta's unease. With a soft whistle, Zubat flapped its wings and flew above the Ponyta, sending ripples of calming sound waves.
"Leech Life," Aiden said softly.
Zubat darted downward, a greenish glow swirling around its fangs. The energy transferred into the Ponyta's body, and for a brief moment, its body glowed faintly, calming the nerves of the young Fire-type. The Ponyta's tail flame flickered brighter, a soft warmth returning to its spirit. Its posture shifted, becoming less tense and more relaxed.
Aiden took a step forward, lowering himself to the Ponyta's level. He smiled gently. "It's okay. You're safe now."
The young Ponyta took a few more steps toward him, now seeming more curious than fearful. Aiden extended his hand slowly, and after a long moment, the Ponyta nuzzled his palm, its fur warm and soft.
The Ranch Owner observed the scene quietly, impressed by the way Aiden approached the Ponyta. "Not many people can get through to her like that," he said. "You've got a way with Pokémon."
Aiden stood slowly, his gaze fixed on the Ponyta. The little Fire-type gave a soft neigh, its fiery mane shimmering brighter than before, a quiet spark of recognition in its eyes.
The Ranch Owner gave Aiden a nod, his eyes softening. "You've earned her trust, kid. I think she's found someone who understands her. You're welcome to take her with you, if you want."
Aiden's heart skipped a beat. This wasn't something he expected—he hadn't even considered capturing a Ponyta. But he could sense the bond forming between them, something deeper than just a fleeting encounter. This little Ponyta, with her timid nature, needed someone who would guide her, someone who could be patient and show her the world.
"I'll take her," Aiden said with a decisive nod, his voice steady and confident. "Thank you."
The Ranch Owner handed him a Pokéball. "She's ready when you are."
Aiden held out the Pokéball, ready to make his move. The Ponyta seemed to understand, stepping closer to him, its body now radiating a confidence it hadn't before. The fiery Pokémon lowered its head as Aiden tossed the ball toward it.
The Pokéball struck the Ponyta gently, and it was sucked inside with a soft "click."
As the sun began to set, the ranch was quiet, with only the soft rustle of leaves in the evening breeze. Evan stood off to the side, watching Ponyta graze peacefully. With no one around, he focused inward, his mind connecting with the fiery creature.
Through his abilities, the details of Ponyta's growth unfolded before him.
Ponyta's Growth
Talent: Blue
Stage: Child
Moves Known:
Ember (Beginner)
Quick Attack (Beginner)
Tackle (Beginner)
Agility (Intermediate)
Flame Wheel (Intermediate)
Ponyta's strength was undeniable, its potential marked by the deep blue hue of its talent. It was still in its early stage, but Aiden could sense the fire within it—ready to burn brighter. With the right guidance, this Ponyta would soon master its abilities and reach new heights.
As Aiden entered the Task Center later that evening, the fading light from the setting sun cast long shadows across the room. The hum of the building seemed quieter now, the bustle of the day settling into the calm of the evening.
Approaching the counter, Aiden pulled out his task slips, handing them over to the clerk.
"All tasks completed?" the clerk asked, glancing up as he took the slips from Aiden's hands.
"Yeah, finished them all," Aiden replied with a slight smile.
The clerk read through the slips one by one. "Relocating wild Bidoof, finding the missing Growlithe, and monitoring the Ponyta herds... everything checks out. Looks like you've been busy."
Aiden nodded. "It was a good day."
With a few taps, the clerk processed the results. "Your task fees have been deposited directly into your Poké Card, as usual. Let me add that up... looks like a total of 3,000 Poké for the three tasks."
Aiden felt a small thrill as he thought about the growing balance on his Poké Card. His previous balance was 15,000 Poké, so with the 3,000 added, his total was now 18,000 Poké.
The clerk continued. "Also, the Growlithe owner mentioned something about a little extra reward for you."
Aiden raised an eyebrow. "A reward?"
"Yep. Apparently, they were impressed by how you handled things today," the clerk explained. "They've gifted you a set of specialized Poké Balls — the 'Elite Capture Balls'. These have an enhanced capture rate, especially for Pokémon like Growlithe. You should make good use of them."
Aiden smiled in appreciation. "I'll make sure to," he said, carefully tucking the balls into his bag. "Thanks."
With the task fees in hand and the bonus reward added to his Poké Card, Aiden gave a polite nod to the clerk. "I'll be on my way, then."
As Aiden left the Task Center, the last sliver of the sun dipped below the horizon, and the cool evening air greeted him. His thoughts turned to the road ahead: his first Gym challenge was drawing closer, but for now, he could enjoy the satisfaction of completing his tasks and being rewarded for his hard work.
It had been a good day. The journey was just beginning