I pause, hopping from one foot to the other. It's...scary. It's a big world and I don't know what's in it. I turn back towards town. Maybe...maybe I'm not ready. I nervously fiddle with one of my hair-drills.
But...what would it mean, if I went back? I did take the Pokédex from the professor, and she gave me one of her Pokémon. Would she be disappointed? She might not even be surprised. Everyone knows I can't do anything right.
I shake my head vigorously. Victini lets out a surprised yelp as it flies off my head, still wrapped in the beret.
"I'm sorry!" I cry out, rushing over. Gingerly, I pick it back up, dusting it off gently. I nuzzle it fiercely, receiving a contented murmur in response, then put the beret back on. After a moment of cuddling, Victini flies out of my arms, lifts the beret, then snuggles against my head again. I reach up under the hat and scratch my only friend between the ears.
I nod decisively, though gently. I'm not going back home. No matter what he says, I can do this. Even if I can't do it...even if I'm not good enough...I have to try.
I step onto the path.