Chapter 51: A Night to Remember
The sunset bathed the town of Glendale in soft hues of amber and gold, but inside the Virel household, everything sparkled with electric joy. The entire living room had been transformed into a celebration space—streamers in vibrant colors stretched from wall to wall, fairy lights blinked gently from the windows, and the scent of delicious home-cooked dishes filled the air.
On the central table, a homemade cake stood proudly—two tiers frosted in the shape of a Poké Ball, complete with Ray's name written in elegant icing. Plates of grilled vegetables, steaming rice, and crispy herb-seasoned Pokémon-safe dishes lined the sides, courtesy of Ray's mother, who beamed with equal parts exhaustion and pride.
Ray had officially passed the Intermediate Trainer Examination earlier that day—and his family had spared no effort in celebrating the moment.
Friends, neighbors, and close acquaintances had come. Damos and his wife arrived with a gift basket, while Kira bounded into the house as if it were her own, eyes shining with excitement. Even the local academy instructor stopped by briefly to offer congratulations.
Ray stood near the center, flanked by Pidgeotto and his parents, both of whom had practically burst with pride. His mother hugged him every few minutes, dabbing her eyes. His father gave firm nods of approval between bites of food, occasionally clapping Ray on the shoulder.
"This is more than just a step," his father said at one point. "It's a declaration. You're not a boy anymore—you're walking the path now."
Ray smiled, a deep warmth filling his chest. "And I'll keep walking it. No matter how steep it gets."
The room erupted in laughter and chatter, plates were passed, and music played in the background. Children gathered around Pidgeotto, marveling at its sleek feathers and calm demeanor, while Ray moved from guest to guest, thanking them for their support.
But then—mid-conversation—Kira suddenly leapt up onto a chair, raising her hand dramatically.
"Everyone!" she shouted, commanding the room's attention.
The music faded. All eyes turned to her.
"I won't be left behind by this guy!" she declared, pointing at Ray. "Starting tomorrow, I begin my final preparations! I'm taking the Intermediate Trainer Exam in two months!"
The room erupted into cheers and applause. Damos laughed heartily, placing a proud hand on his daughter's shoulder.
"That's my girl!" he grinned.
Ray laughed, genuinely touched, and raised his glass. "I'll be rooting for you."
"You better," Kira smirked. "Because once I pass, we're sparring!"
Their families cheered even louder. Glasses clinked. Plates refilled. Even Pidgeotto gave a proud cry, as if joining the toast.
Later that evening, as the party calmed and Ray stepped out onto the porch to catch a breath of cool night air, his Pokégear buzzed. A familiar name appeared on the screen: Professor Oak.
Ray quickly answered. "Professor Oak! Good evening."
The old man's voice came through with warm, hearty energy. "Ray Virel! Congratulations, young man. I heard the news—you've officially passed your Intermediate Trainer Exam."
"Thank you, sir," Ray said, smiling.
"You've earned it. Your progress is exceptional. And… I remember a promise I made, don't think I've forgotten. When you reached Intermediate Rank, I said I'd have something for you."
Ray's eyes widened. "You did. Is it…?"
Oak chuckled. "It's already en route. Something I hope will help further your research. You've got quite the future ahead, Ray. I'm proud to support it."
Ray bowed instinctively, even though they weren't on a video call. "Thank you, Professor. That means a lot."
Oak's tone softened. "We'll speak more soon. For now, celebrate. You've earned it."
As the call ended, Ray stepped back inside to see his mother lighting candles on the Poké Ball cake. Everyone had gathered around once more.
He glanced down at his belt, where two Poké Balls now rested—one belonging to his loyal Pidgeotto, and the other, newly claimed in private that morning, belonging to Dratini.
Tonight was about more than titles. More than exams.
It was a celebration of bonds, of growth, and of dreams beginning to bloom.
And it was just the beginning.