“They’re still out there?” I asked, already knowing the answer.

  “Still out there, yup.” My sister replied, peering over her shoulder and out the window before returning to her breakfast. “Think you’ll just have to face the music.” Her Primarina happily clapped his flippers together at that.

  “You know, not everything about me needs to be a musical reference just because I made an album. Music isn’t even related to this situation,” I complained, pushing the food around on my plate.

  “Ehh, pretty sure they’ll ask you about that too, so…” Cyan trailed off, and I groaned, planting my head down on the table. Dun rose up beside me to comfort m- to steal all the food off my plate and then comfort me.

  I didn’t think things would be this different. Sure, becoming a Champion-ranked Trainer was a huge accomplishment, absolutely. But some part of me had thought things would go back to normal afterwards. That it might be something people commented on upon meeting me, but nothing so big. Instead we had people treating it like a national holiday over in Mesagoza and likely other cities, and we’ve had reporters planted outside our door for the past three days.

  Leah had done an admirable job in holding them back, but they still waited just outside our property, desperate for an interview. I had kind of hoped they would go away by now and had thrown myself into my work, writing up a paper with some help from Friede while he was here. Now it was done, and I was forced to accept that I couldn’t avoid this forever. “Alright, guess I’ll get dressed and talk to them.”

  The instant I left the door, the reporters were surging ahead. How did they even- ah, there’s an Absol among the press. She must have sensed my exit, which would have caused a stampede, thus a ‘disaster,’ and warned everyone ahead of time. That did stop anything bad from happening as they entered the garden surrounding me, but it did mean they pushed past Leah’s Eevee, despite the valiant attempt he made to hold back the tide.

  “Calm down!” I shouted over the din of noise. “I’ll answer some questions, but can you please get off of the garden? Our landscapers work hard on it.” That got a few of them to look ashamed, and I led them just off the property, stopping briefly to brush Eevee’s ruffled fur and send them back to Leah.

  Despite all the people and Pokemon around me, I couldn’t help but feel my gaze drawn up to that house on the hill. It wasn’t anything special by most accounts. Nice, but far more modest than our mansion; however, it would be where I’d find a true rival. Maybe. Have I changed things such that they’ll never show up? I can’t say I’d regret that; keeping disaster from striking Paldea and Arven is important… but I would still like a rival. Someone who can push and be pushed by me.

  “Champion, what are you staring at?” One odd question caught me in my reverie, and I snapped my gaze over to the man who said it. He wore a grey suit, with thin, reedy brown hair.

  “The horizon,” I said with what I hoped was a charming smile. “Always got to be on the lookout for the next challenge, right?” That earned a few good-natured chuckles and more furious scribbles as reporters wrote what I said down.

  Glancing around, I saw an interesting mix of pen and paper reporting, as well as microphones, cameras, and recording devices. With some of the gear left behind, I assumed that it must have been a bit of a rush when they heard I’d be coming out.

  More questions were fired at me, and I raised a hand and brought them to a stop. “Sorry, but we need to do this orderly if we’re going to get anywhere. Please, raise your hands, and I’ll answer one at a time.”

  They did so, and I pointed to one of the reporters at random, a middle-aged woman with her hair in a short bob and a sharp expression on her face. “You say you’re constantly looking for new challenges, but you were holed up in your house for the past three days. What were you doing?” Huh, always thought press introduced themselves when asking questions. Then again, this isn’t that formal a press release, and that might have just been a thing in movies and shows. Eh, I’ll take any attempt to save time.

  “After the Gauntlet, my team and I needed a good long rest. I was also busy working on the paper I submitted online, outlining how Notch transformed from a Carbink to a Diancie.” I’d uploaded it yesterday, and it was already trending around the world by the day’s end, with several articles speculating on it written up by some of the reporters here, showing they hadn’t just been waiting around for me.

  My answer triggered a flurry of hands waving up eagerly, so I pointed at another journalist, anticipating it would be about that. “So this is true? You’re claiming to have really developed a way to turn a common Pokemon into a Legendary?”

  Trying to not let any irritation seep into my voice, I responded. “I wouldn’t call Carbinks an especially ‘common’ species of Pokemon, but yes, everything I claimed in the paper about the events that unfolded on Melemele Island is true. The theories I posited about the reasons for why and how such a change relates to ‘natural’ Diancies are, of course, just speculation that will need to be verified over time, but Notch becoming a Diancie has been verified by an Alolan League Official and two Pokemon Professors.” I get that this is a bit shocking, but honestly, I’ve got far more evidence and witnesses backing this up than a lot of Pokemon discoveries in the past century.

  “Why did you go to Alola for the experiment? Why not do so here?” They were the questions I got from the next person I picked.

  “I answered that clearly in the paper I published next.” The man spluttered, but I was already moving on. I’ll probably get a few tricky or ‘gotcha’ questions here, but I have no patience for them asking me things they should already know.

  “You’re now the youngest Trainer in Paldea to become a Champion-ranked Trainer and the youngest in all the world to defeat the top Champion of a region. How does that make you feel?”

  “A little overwhelmed, to be honest.” Mostly because of how people like you are treating this, but still. It is a big deal, and I was so focused on trying to stop Turo that now that he’s shutting it down, I feel slightly directionless. “My team has trained tirelessly to reach this point, and it’s kind of floored us all now that we’re here.”

  “What are your plans for the future? Once you’re done resting, of course.”

  “Well, I’m hoping to enroll at Blueberry Academy in the upcoming school year, so I’ll need to prepare for the entrance ex-”

  “Not Uva?” Someone interrupts. I sighed, but seeing as everyone seemed interested in the answer, I decided to take the question. But I won’t be picking you for any more, tall dude.

  “Not at first. Blueberry has a narrower curriculum, so after three years there, I might attend Uva afterwards.” I’ll let Arven know later that I’m definitely attending Uva, but I feel like making that a fact to the world at large is not great. Already regretting telling them about Blueberry even if they’d find out in a few months anyways. “I’m interested in the Terrarium and construction of the entire academy there,” I add, hoping that will be enough to cut off any further questions along that line.

  “Studying after becoming a Champion is an interesting choice. Could you tell us why you aren’t focusing further on battle?” A woman with a Kanto look to her asked.

  “Blueberry Academy does have a decent emphasis on battling, but I'd like to learn more about Pokemon and the world too. Studying from the vast amount of resources available on the web was a huge boon and helped me tons as I trained.” You need to sift through the worthless information and the stuff that’s only partially right, but in this day and age, tons of what you need is online.

  You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

  The next person I chose invariably chose to press me on that. “Are you saying that you haven’t received any help from your family or background in making it this far?”

  “Not at all, just advising people to make use of everything at their disposal. My family has supported me greatly, and I’m so grateful for their help letting us make it this far, this early in my career.”

  The next person just continued that line of thought in a way that made me believe these people were sharing notes. “Is it fair for you to receive so much support compared to other Trainers?”

  I glared at the thin man who made the accusation. “Everyone has benefits and disadvantages starting their journey as a Trainer. I’ll admit that I’ve seen quite a few benefits from my background, but all the wealth in the world wouldn’t get me anywhere without the hard work my team put in. If I were to ignore what I could use to help them, I’d be doing a disservice to my Pokemon and spitting on their hard work. So yes, it might not be the most ‘fair,’ but until someone has an answer to the flaws of a capitalistic system, we’ll simply have to live with that.” A harsh breeze blew from the sea at my back as I finished speaking.

  There was a stunned silence over the reporters at that, as if all of them were suddenly afraid of me. Well, all except one. Tiredly, I pointed at the one man still eagerly waving his hand.

  “The Gauntlet is seen as one of the most extreme challenges out there. What made you want to take on such a manly challenge?” The man with spiky red hair shouted excitedly.

  Because I wanted to see how I stacked up to the same sort of challenge a Player Character goes through in a game? Hmm, no, I’d rather not say that and avoid being the first Champion-ranked Trainer tossed in the loony bin. “Because I believe a Trainer should always push themselves, and this was the best way for me to push myself and my team.”

  That question and answer appeared to reset expectations, and most everyone was back to eagerly raising their hands.

  “Was there anyone you travelled on your journey with?”

  “Just my Pokemon,” I replied, recognizing that for some reason most people didn’t find that a fulfilling answer. Being surrounded by eight sometimes radically different personalities is definitely a trip. Wouldn’t trade it for the world, though.

  I picked out another reporter, wondering if I was going to start needing repeats soon. “Speaking of your Pokemon, where did you find a ‘Radiance?’ I’ve never heard of a Pokemon like that before.”

  “They’re not- Radiance is just the name I gave them, and signs indicate that they left the Great Crater before I met them.” That answer earned me a few shocked gasps, and I tacked on, “I cannot stress highly enough to not go into the Great Crater to look for any Pokemon. It is an incredibly dangerous area that can be hazardous for even experienced Trainers.”

  My stern tone might have dissuaded at least the reporters from going down that line, but they had other questions about my team. “Your Diancie and Radiance aren’t the only rare Pokemon on your team. You also have a Zoroark that differs from the standard. Where did-”

  “Next question.”

  “B-but-”

  “Next question,” I repeated just as firmly as before.

  “Is it true you were trained by Hassel?” I want to dock you for that one as ‘common knowledge,’ but some people who watch this news won’t have watched Iono’s interview, and at least it isn’t another question about Phantasm… Ugh, fine, I’ll answer it.

  “It is true. We discussed a fair bit of Pokemon and I had battled against him before I left on my journey, but mostly he taught me music,” I said, my voice clipped.

  “Are you going to be putting out a new album to capitalize on your recent victory?” I mean, the studio, and my agents, and everyone related to that stuff that my parents wrangled for me probably really want me to.

  “We’ll see. Inspiration works on its own schedule.” It was blatant lies, but I did not care, eagerly moving to the next question.

  [‘Where did that fabulous cape of yours go? You looked marvelous in it!’] The Jynx wiggled as she spoke. I was amazed at her dedication to have remained camped out here despite the temperature likely being quite draining for a Pokemon of her Type. I always saw the fashion pieces as fluff and not very serious journalism, but clearly she’s quite dedicated to her work.

  “I save that for special occasions; there’s no need to risk it getting damaged.” The truth was a bit more complicated than that; considering Notch was able to cover most of the costs of making it, it getting damaged wasn’t actually a big deal. However, by the new International League rules, I, as the Trainer of a Diancie, wasn’t allowed to give out diamonds willy-nilly, having a limited amount per annum I could give as gifts even to friends and family, all of which had to be recorded.

  If I wear diamond-covered clothing all the time, then the damages and lost gems over time could be seen as me trying to undercut the market. Really though, I just think it’s a bit gaudy for everyday wear. But at least that excuse covered for Mom and Dad as to why I don’t wear it all the time.

  The questions just kept coming, the reporters seemingly having an endless stream of them to pester me with. Some of them were still fairly centered around my life as a Trainer, getting into how exactly I trained my Pokemon or who I looked up to.

  For the former, I discussed generalities like time spent training each day and a few general ways I focused on what to teach my Pokemon before heading off further questions by explaining that, to a degree, training needed to be tailored to your individual Pokemon and team dynamics.

  Addressing the latter, I said, “I’ve been inspired by many people. Champions like Ash, Iris, and Cynthia, and other renowned trainers like Hassel. As to the people I look up to the most, though, I would have to say those would be my parents and sister. They strive hard every day, which pushes me to excel as well.” That got a few muttered ‘awws,’ so I considered it a success.

  “Do you have a favorite Pokemon?” It was a question I scoffed at.

  “How do you expect me to choose between the nine best Pokemon in the world?” I shot back. That triggered a flurry of new questions and me showing off Gothorita for all of three seconds before the collective weight of so many nearby minds focused on her overwhelmed my newest Pokemon and I returned her to her Pokeball.

  Right, I have to remember that. She was fine around my family and friends, but that was a lot fewer people than this. It was something Psychic Types could get used to with time, even the more sensitive species, but that would take time and practice.

  More questions were given about my hobbies, favorite colors, etc. The inquiries into a more direct interview received very noncommittal responses from me. The one that asked if I had any crushes was stopped by a flat, “I’m nine,” before they could even finish the sentence. They turned away, appropriately chagrined by my response. How quickly they forget, considering I already shot down two thinly veiled jabs questioning if it was really possible for someone as young as I am to have managed what I have.

  I was certain that some people would still disbelieve me - for some people, once they had formed an opinion, it felt impossible to change their minds. But I hoped that this little performance would demonstrate that I had the maturity and intelligence needed to actually be a Champion and a musician and the one who discovered how to turn Carbinks into Diancies, etc. It’s still a bit weird because, yeah, most kids don’t talk or think like I do.

  After what felt like hours and hours, I finally said, “I believe this is all the relevant questions. Thank you for your time. I now invite you to leave.” This was met by several protests from the gathered reporters, but eventually they were persuaded to leave (with only a little ‘assistance’ from Phantasm). Before they did, though, one man stepped forward, insistent with a final question, preceded by an explanatory statement.

  Probably only so brave because of that Absol by your side to fend off Phantasm. I didn’t want to make a fight of it or distract Phantasm from her work corralling the others, so I gave the ok for this final question.

  “Nemona Glitterati, your achievement three days ago was seen as revolutionary, and that was before we received confirmation that you had discovered an unheard-of evolution.” I resisted the urge to tap my foot impatiently as he got on with the point. “Many people in Paldea and other regions, especially those around your age, say they see you as an inspiration. Advantages of wealth aside, what would you like to say to all of them?”

  Geez, hitting me with a tough one at the end. “I’d say that I’m flattered and that they should follow their dreams. It takes hard work and determination, but this world is wonderful and filled with incredible people. As outlined in my training regimen, it might take a lot of work to achieve those dreams, but if you put in the effort, you can do amazing things. Thank you.”

  With that, I finally got the last of them shoved out and down the road, away from my house. Trudging back in, I slumped down on the couch, only to be greeted by giggles. Without turning my head, I swiveled my gaze over to my older sister to glare at her. She continued unabated, utterly unaffected by my stare.

  “What?” I finally asked, my voice cracking a little.

  “Nothing, just… I’ve seen you working out for hours on end and not come back as tired as this!” Cyan said between giggles, clearly entertained by my plight.

  “People are haaaaard. Running is easy.” She raised an eyebrow but didn’t offer any further argument. Propping myself up, I turned to face her directly. “Since you have today off from school, do you want to go work on those comics we talked about in Artazon?”

  Her face lit up, and I felt happy seeing her so delighted. As tiring as people can be, it’s all worth it if we can have peaceful days like this. Everything finally feels settled. Sure, I’ll have to deal with the bullies and protect Team Star, but that’s almost half a decade off. For now, I get to enjoy the good life.

  As we ran up the stairs, Primarina and Smeargle hopped out of Cyan’s Pokeballs, eager to join us, and Phantasm eagerly trailed behind, interested to see what we were doing. We get to enjoy the good life, I mentally corrected, already thinking of all the spectacular scenes we’d create together.

  - Tera Type: Normal

  - Held Item: Expert Belt

  - Abilities: Run Away, Serene Grace

  - Moves known:

  - 'Miles' (Rotom, Genderless, Electric/Form dependent Type)

  - Tera Type: Electric

  - Held Item: Life Orb

  - Ability: Levitate

  - Moves Known:

  - 'Nightwing' (Gliscor, Female, Flying/Ground Type)

  - Tera Type: Water

  - Held Item: Toxic Orb

  - Ability: Hyper Cutter, Poison Heal

  - Moves Known:

  - 'Notch' (Diancie, Mega-Evolvable, Genderless, Rock/Fairy Type)

  - Tera Type: Fighting

  - Held Item: Light Clay

  - Ability: Clear Body

  - Moves Known:

  - 'Phantasm' (Hisuian Zoroark, Female, Normal/Ghost)

  - Tera Type: Ghost

  - Held Item: Lax Incense

  - Ability: Illusion

  - Moves Known:

  - 'Athena' (Lucario, Mega-Evolveable, Female, Fighting/Steel)

  - Tera Type: Fighting

  - Held Item: Clear Amulet

  - Ability: Steadfast

  - Moves Known:

  -'Bahamut' (Haxorus, Male, Shiny, Dragon)

  - Tera Type: Dragon

  - Held Item: Dragon Fang

  - Ability: Mold Breaker

  - Moves Known:

  - 'Radiance' (Iron Moth, Genderless, Fire/Poison)

  - Tera Type: ???

  - Held Item: Booster Energy

  - Ability: Quark Drive

  - Moves Known:

  -'Gothorita' (Gothorita, Female, Psychic)

  -Tera Type: Psychic

  - Held Item: None

  - Ability: Shadow Tag

  - Moves Known: Follow Me

  *Custom Moves