"Nine-forty." Claire had been constantly checking her clock, hoping that the night would proceed faster. She had gathered all the belongings she needed with her and put them in her bag. Looking outside, she could just barely see JayJay from the window. That was good news to her, meaning that her mother had no clue what she had been planning. She browsed over the letter that she would leave for her mother.
"Mother,
I can't let you control my destiny. I know I'm meant to go on a Pokemon Journey, but I also know I can't go alone. I have chose to leave tonight without a word to stop you from stopping me. I will give my goodbyes to Gabrielle, and my goodbye to you through this letter. My partner has agreed to meet with me tonight, and by the time you get this we'll be outside of Vermillion already. I won't wait for my life to pass while you keep me at home. Money for the sitter is saved in my checking account. I wish you luck in life, as I hope you wish for luck in mine.
With love,
Claire Powell"
The clock in the foyer dinged, meaning that it was finally ten o'clock. As her mother proceeded off to bed, Claire left a note on the kitchen table. She went to open the door until Gabrielle pulled at her shirt.
"Big sister, where are you going?"
"To fulfill my destiny, Gabrielle. To challenge the Elite, like you wanted to do when you got old enough."
"To be the best!"
Claire laughed. "To be the best. I have to go or Mommy won't let me. Please don't tell her where I'm headed, Gabrielle."
"I promise, Sister. But, is Growlie staying with you?"
"Yeah. I need him with me. When he comes back, he'll be a stronger puppy. You'll probably be able to ride him by then."
Gabrielle giggled in joy. "Big sister, I have a special present for you."
"What's that?"
Gabrielle motioned for Claire to follow her. In her room, an egg was hidden in her closet and wrapped in blankets. Claire gasped. "It was in a bush and I found it. I've been taking really good care of it, Claire! Now, you take it as a present from me and make the Pokemon inside big and strong! Mommy won't let me keep it if she finds it."
"I promise I'll hatch it and train it for you, Gabby."
"Thank you, Big Sister. Go find your friend! I'll watch out for Mommy."
Claire smiled, then took the egg into her arms. She kissed Gabrielle on the forehead and hurried out the door with the wrapped egg in hand.