The sun dipped low on the horizon as the wind carried Kai and his Pokémon over the Sinnoh region's coastline. Rolling hills, winding rivers, and forests spread out beneath them like an emerald patchwork. Ahead, the small, peaceful town of Sandgem nestled against the sea, its lighthouse casting a gentle glow across the sky.
Kai guided Salamence down toward the path outside the Pokémon Research Lab, with Roaring Moon and Dragonite trailing behind. The dragons landed one after the other, stirring up a breeze as their wings folded. Chimchar hopped off Roaring Moon's back with a joyful squeal, doing a small flip in the air and dashing toward the lab doors.
"This place hasn't changed at all," Kai murmured as he dismounted, giving Salamence a grateful pat. "Still smells like the ocean and research chemicals."
The lab doors opened with a quiet hiss, and standing there was a familiar, dignified figure in a white lab coat. Professor Rowan's sharp eyes softened when he saw Kai approaching.
"Kai," he said with a deep voice, tinged with age and wisdom. "It's been far too long."
Kai stepped forward and bowed his head respectfully. "Professor Rowan. Thank you for having me."
Rowan waved off the formality and offered his hand. "You're just as polite as your grandfather. He always spoke of you with pride."
At the mention of his grandfather, Kai smiled faintly. Chimchar had already leapt into Rowan's arms, the little Pokémon practically vibrating with joy.
"Well, look who's grown into a fine fighter," Rowan chuckled, stroking Chimchar's fur. "You remember me, don't you, little one?"
Chimchar chirped and nodded rapidly, pressing his forehead against Rowan's. Rowan gave him a small poke on the nose. "Your grandfather would've loved to see this."
Inside the lab, the familiar scent of books and technology filled the air. Kai took a deep breath. This place, too, held memories—though not as many as Pallet Town, there was history here. The rows of machines, notes scribbled on chalkboards, the glass cases with Poké Balls—they all reminded Kai of his childhood visits.
Rowan motioned to a bench. "Sit. Tell me—what brings you all the way from Paldea?"
Kai sat down and glanced out the window where his Pokémon were relaxing in the field behind the lab. Gengar was phasing through a tree for laughs, while the Charcadets were chasing each other in wide loops around a bemused Dragonite.
Kai's tone changed slightly, still soft, but more direct. "Professor… I'm here for the two Pokémon my grandfather left with you."
Rowan gave a small nod and turned toward the lab. "Of course. Come with me."
Inside the lab, the bright sunlight gave way to polished floors and cool, sterile air. Assistants glanced up and nodded as Kai passed, recognizing the visitor but sensing the importance of his visit.
Rowan led Kai to a reinforced door at the back of the lab. With a wave of his ID and a brief biometric scan, the door hissed open, revealing a temperature-controlled chamber with only one pedestal at its center.
On it rested two Poké Balls, positioned carefully under a low light. The air felt heavier here—not oppressive, but significant, as if the weight of history lingered in every breath.
"Darkrai and Lucario," Rowan said, his voice more solemn now. "Your grandfather entrusted them to me before he stepped away from the spotlight. He said only you should awaken them again."
Kai stepped forward slowly. A strange energy danced along his skin as he approached the pedestal. Both Poké Balls pulsed faintly in response—recognition? Anticipation?
"They were his partners when he was at his strongest," Kai murmured. "I remember their presence… even as a child."
"Few ever met them and fewer still saw them battle," Rowan said. "But I did. They were extraordinary. Especially together."
Kai reached down and placed his hands gently on the Poké Balls. A strange warmth spread through his fingertips, as though the Pokémon within knew it was time.
"They're mine to carry forward now," he said.
Rowan watched him silently, then gave a single nod of approval. "They are. You're the only one your grandfather ever said could wield their full potential."
Kai turned to him. "Thank you… for protecting them all this time."
"You'll do what your grandfather would've wanted," Rowan said. "But also, what only you can."
With the Poké Balls safely stored at his side, Kai followed the professor back to the main hall of the lab. Chimchar climbed back onto his shoulder, cheerful as ever, while the Charcadets and Gengar huddled together, whispering among themselves and watching the professor with curiosity.
"I imagine you have much ahead of you," Rowan said as they stepped outside.
"I'm heading back to Paldea, eventually," Kai replied. "But there are things to settle first. These two," he patted the Poké Balls on his belt, "deserve to see the world again."
Outside, Salamence and Roaring Moon waited patiently. Dragonite rested near the trees, its wings folded as it watched the sea.
Rowan looked at the impressive Pokémon gathered. "It's quite the team you've assembled."
"They found me when I needed them most," Kai said. "I suppose it's time to return the favor."
Rowan placed a hand on Kai's shoulder. "Your grandfather would be proud. These are more than just powerful Pokémon—they're a legacy."
Kai gave a quiet nod, then looked up toward the sky.
"I'll honor that legacy. And make it my own."