After several months of joint effort by Stephen Clark and the others, the silk produced by the Hunting Beautifly made great progress and gained impressive conductivity. Finally, with the help of the mamaguo fruit, the Hunting Beautifly managed to master the unique move “Electric Net” thanks to its special powder.

This was also the greatest achievement Stephen Clark and the Hunting Beautifly had gained in their year together.

In addition, the Hunting Beautifly’s excellent airflow sensing, its meticulous control of wind speed, and the silver whirlwind filled with all kinds of scales were all results of the hard work of Stephen Clark and the Hunting Beautifly.

It could be said that, although the Hunting Beautifly might not be particularly powerful, when it came to using special moves, it was an outstanding contestant—a little one born for the Contest Spectaculars.

Because it carried the dreams of all the children in Qinggu House, and Grandma Allen’s experience was also its greatest support as it grew.

A gentle breeze blew again, instantly waking Stephen Clark. He knew this was the wind that marked the beginning of his farewell.

Chapter 4: A Better Future

Time passed quickly, and on this day, Stephen Clark was preparing to set out.

None of the children came to see Stephen Clark; they couldn’t bear to face the farewell.

But Stephen Clark knew that when he left the next day, everyone would come to see him off in tears. He knew these little ones too well.

Morning arrived. The sky was clear, without a cloud, completely different from the day before.

In the soft morning sunlight, inside Qinggu House, the children brought carefully prepared gifts and came to Stephen Clark’s door. But when they pushed the door open, they found the room empty.

Only a clearly written letter lay on the desk, held down by a paperweight.

Seeing this, the children’s hearts tightened. Little Linda held back her tears, stepped forward first, and picked up the envelope Stephen Clark had left behind.

“Everyone, by the time you read this letter, I think I’ve already set out. I hope my departure won’t cause you any trouble. Don’t be sad because I’m leaving. Although sometimes I do get annoyed by you little rascals, I still love the cheerful atmosphere of Qinggu House.

Linda Baker, remember not to be naughty anymore. If you get bullied by the Poochyena again, the Hunting Beautifly won’t be able to save you next time.

Aaron Reed, you’re the oldest among the kids besides me, and also the most sensible. Remember to take good care of your younger brothers and sisters.

Tyler Grant, don’t be picky with your food anymore. After I leave, there won’t be anyone cooking just for you.

Little Scott, I know you’ve always dreamed of becoming a Coordinator among the kids. Believe me, I’ll take the Hunting Beautifly and stand on that final stage. But if you keep playing around, you’ll never reach your dream.

Chad Miller, you were the first to stay by Grandma Allen’s side. You know she’s getting old, so remember to make sure everyone doesn’t upset her, and take good care of Grandma Allen.

Megan, you’re the youngest of the group, everyone’s little sister. Remember to listen to your older brothers and sisters. After I leave, there won’t be anyone to clean up your messes for you.

Finally, Grandma Allen, thank you, thank you so much. Everyone, please don’t worry about me. When I come back again, I’ll make Qinggu House better and bigger, help everyone leave this life behind, and let you all have the lives you dream of, with the right to pursue your dreams! ——Stephen Clark”

It was very quiet all around, only the sound of Little Linda sobbing could be heard. Soon, the envelope passed through everyone’s hands, and all fell silent. At this moment, Grandma Allen also arrived. Seeing what the children were doing, she immediately understood what had happened. Having experienced so much, she couldn’t help but feel a wave of sadness.

She didn’t know how to comfort the children; perhaps letting things take their course was the best outcome.

When Little Linda saw Grandma Allen, she threw herself into her arms. Among the children, Little Linda was the closest to Stephen Clark, so this farewell affected her the most.

“Grandma, when I grow up, I’ll definitely bring Stephen Clark brother back.” Her words were muffled, and her face was already covered in tears.

Gently stroking Little Linda, Grandma Allen comforted her, “I believe in you, Little Linda. You’ll definitely be able to bring Stephen Clark brother back.”

Though she said this, Grandma Allen sighed in her heart.

Alas, it’s not that easy. She only hoped that after Stephen Clark faced setbacks out there, he could let go of his pride and come back here.

Trying to make it in this world as just a child is far from easy.

Even those from well-off families, who have officially registered as trainers with the Pokémon League, number nearly a hundred in each region every year. But only about one-tenth manage to collect eight badges and challenge the regional League Conference, and even more are eliminated in the League Conference.

Take the Ever Grande Conference in Hoenn, for example—even those who make it to the top sixteen can’t say for sure they can make a living as a trainer.

Only those exceptionally talented trainers might be noticed by major corporations or even the Pokémon League itself.