POKEMON: PICK UP THE MYSTICAL POKEMON DIANCIE AT THE BEGINNING

Wrapped in the overflowing care of his father, Victor found himself treated like royalty.

Even though he insisted he was fine, his father fussed over him, stating that Victor needed to be in top shape for his upcoming journey. His father's concern left him speechless but touched.

That night, as Victor lay comfortably in bed, his Pokémon, Carbink and TORRACAT, refused to sleep in their own small beds and snuggled beside him. Surrounded by his companions, Victor quickly drifted off into a deep sleep.

In his dreams, a majestic and androgynous voice kept echoing in his mind:

"What is your truth?"

The question repeated endlessly, but Victor couldn't respond. His body felt paralyzed, trapped in the surreal landscape of his subconscious.

---

Since returning from the Spiral Secret Realm, Victor often heard voices in his dreams, but they always faded from memory upon waking.

His father took him to the hospital for a thorough check-up. Apart from the healing wound on his head, the doctors found nothing unusual.

Days passed, and Victor's application for the Gym Challenge Tour was approved. The day of his departure arrived, and his father busied himself preparing for every possible scenario.

Victor's mother, who lived in the capital city, even arranged for him to receive a space backpack, a prototype not yet released to the public. The advanced bag was loaded with outdoor supplies and clothes.

At the train station, Victor said his goodbyes to his father, Roman, and Tessa. Boarding the train to Zephyros Province, he embarked on the next leg of his adventure.

---

On the train, Victor enjoyed the comforts of a first-class cabin his father had booked. Carbink and TORRACAT were captivated by the scenery rushing past the windows.

"Sir, here's your hot drink," said the attendant with a polite smile before leaving.

Victor nodded and settled in.

Trains in this world were equipped with trainers to handle potential Pokémon attacks. Wild Pokémon often approached the tracks, seeking the specially-prepared food on board. These measures ensured the journey was safe and smooth.

Three days later, the train arrived in kirmira City, a bustling trade hub at the intersection of coastal and inland regions in Zephyros Province.

---

Kirmira City was unlike the other coastal cities of the province. It lacked a seaside view but boasted a thriving marketplace and humid air. Most buildings were made of moisture-resistant materials, a practical design choice.

Victor followed a guide on his phone sent by Roman, which led him to the Trainer Market, a renowned destination for trainers seeking rare items.

The market was alive with activity. Street vendors shouted their pitches:

"Fresh berries, picked this morning! Sweet and juicy!"

"For rich, fertile soil, use Tauros Fertilizer!"

"Upgrade your tech with the Rotom 8848! Titanium build, leather accents, and unmatched encryption!"

Victor weaved through the chaotic stalls until he reached a well-organized cart. Despite selling goods on the street, the vendor wore a suit—though it seemed mismatched with his short stature.

"Welcome! Anything I can help you with?" the vendor asked enthusiastically.

"I'm just browsing," Victor replied, examining the neatly displayed items.

The cart offered Poké Balls, berries, herbs, and various battle-enhancing items. Victor activated his system's detection ability to identify anything of value.

Water Stone: An intermediate-quality stone used to evolve certain Pokémon.

Soft Sand: Boosts the power of Ground-type moves by 10%.

Light Clay: A high-quality item that extends the duration of moves like Reflect, Light Screen, and Aurora Veil.

Prism Scale: A rare scale shed by a wild Milotic, used to evolve Feebas.

Most items can be purchased through the system mall, including keystones for Mega Evolution, Z-Rings, Dynamax Bands, and Tera Orbs.

However, the system currency is limited. Unless absolutely necessary, it would be better to purchase as many items as possible with regular money.

Victor's eyes lingered on the Light Clay and Prism Scale, both of which were fairly priced.

"I'll take the Light Clay, the Prism Scale, and six Luxury Balls," Victor said.

The vendor grinned. "Excellent choices! That'll be 20 Crimson Coins for the Light Clay and Luxury Balls. As for the Prism Scale, it's 20 Coins as well. It's rare, but perfect for evolving Feebas into Milotic!"

Victor paid for his items and left the stall, satisfied with his purchases.

---

Before leaving, Victor's father transferred a large sum of money into his account. Combined with the New Year's money he had saved since childhood, he could almost afford a pseudo-legendary Pokémon egg!

Although he wasn't sure if he would encounter the destined Feebas, it was better to be prepared.

The day wasn't over. Victor wandered through the market, buying berries for making high-quality Pokéblocks and energy cubes. He arranged for his supplies to be delivered to his hotel.

By evening, Victor returned to the Mimosa Hotel, where he had reserved a room. The berries he purchased were already neatly arranged inside. He sorted them into his system's storage, which preserved their freshness indefinitely.

As the day ended, Victor reflected on his successful shopping trip. With new supplies and tools in hand, he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.