"Torchic! Torchic!"
A sharp call rang out from the bushes ahead. A small chicken-like Pokémon with bright orange-red feathers suddenly appeared, its round eyes brimming with curiosity. Its tiny feet touched the dry ground lightly, leaving soft footprints, while its small beak twitched as if sniffing the scent carried by the wind.
Alex immediately took notice. Riolu and Ralts also lifted their heads, instinctively reacting to the presence of an unfamiliar Pokémon.
Before anyone could wait long, a figure dashed out from the bushes, swiftly scooping up Torchic. "Torchic! You're running off again!" The clear voice rang out, both scolding and relieved.
It was a girl with soft brown hair tied neatly, though a few strands still fell gently around her youthful face. A bright red bandana tied atop her head added a lively touch. Her eyes sparkled with liveliness and a hint of stubbornness. When her lips curled into a smile, two small fangs showed, making her grin even more playful.
She wore a sporty outfit that hugged her athletic figure, and her dusty sneakers showed she had been moving around quite a bit.
Alex recognized her immediately — May, the daughter of Professor Birch, the renowned Pokémon researcher of Hoenn.
Once certain the situation wasn't dangerous, Alex gently signaled Riolu and Ralts to relax.
"Sorry about that," May said, squeezing Torchic gently, her voice softening to calm it. "It's the first time it's wandered this far, so it's curious about everything."
"No worries." Alex replied shortly, his eyes still observing her carefully.
"I'm May." She introduced herself first, her eyes lighting up when she saw Alex was accompanied by Pokémon.
"Alex." He responded. In his mind, the information he had researched about her flashed by quickly. This was no anime world — no Ash or Gary, only Red and Green — and now, he was facing an important figure of this region.
"So, you're a Pokémon Trainer too?" May asked, her curiosity evident.
"Yeah."
At that moment, a mechanical voice echoed in Alex's mind:
[New Mission]: Battle and defeat May.[Reward]: 1000 points.[Penalty]: None.
A slight smile formed on Alex's lips. Finally, a new mission.
"Want to have a match?" he asked straightforwardly.
"Of course!" May nodded immediately, excitement clear on her face.
The two quickly found a clearing. The wind rustled through the grass, carrying the tense anticipation of the upcoming battle.
"Aron, go!" May threw out a Pokéball. A white light flashed, revealing a shining armored Pokémon under the sunlight.
Alex instantly analyzed internally: Aron, Steel and Rock type. Lower level than Riolu, and four times weak to Fighting moves. This was a favorable opportunity.
"Come on, Riolu!"
Riolu stepped out, body crouching slightly into a ready stance, eyes focused.
"Aron, Metal Claw!" May shouted.
Aron growled softly, its steel claws glowing brightly. It charged forward, heavy footsteps thudding against the ground.
Alex calmly issued commands through their Aura connection: Dodge and counter with Rock Smash.
In a single beat, Riolu tilted its body, letting Aron's attack graze its side, then delivered a punch charged with energy directly into the steel armor.
"CLANG!" The sharp impact echoed. The force sent Aron flying back; its heavy body rolled several times on the ground before lying still.
May's eyes widened, lips slightly parted, unable to believe the battle ended so quickly.