Chapter 15: Chapter 15: A Step Toward the Future
"I think we could also look into customizing this technology in the future for trainers," I said, , my mind already racing with ideas, particularly envisioning a backpack feature similar to the ones seen in the Pokémon games. "Imagine a backpack or utility bag designed specifically for Pokémon Trainers, but with compartments that can expand on-demand. Trainers could store their gear, Poké Balls, healing items, and everything else they need in a compact, portable form. The best part is that each compartment could have its own customizable expansion based on the type of items inside. For example, one section could be configured to store medical supplies and keep them chilled, while another could expand to hold multiple Poké Balls and accessories without feeling bulky."
I could see that Grandpa John was warming up to the idea, though his skepticism remained. "I'm not doubting the potential, Owen. But it will be challenging to bring something like this to market. It'll take time, testing, and—"
"And funding," I finished for him. "Yes, I know. But that's why I wanted to present it now. The concept is sound, the prototype works, and I'm confident that with the right resources, we could start small. Maybe with local businesses first—test it in the field, see how it performs under real-world conditions. From there, we could scale up."
Grace stood up from the couch, walking over to inspect the capsules. She picked one up, examining it in her hands with a discerning eye. "And the storage capacity? How much can one of these hold?"
"The technology is still in its early stages," I explained, "but I've already managed to increase the capacity compared to a regular Poké Ball. One of these capsules can store the equivalent of several large crates, depending on the configuration. With further development, we can push that limit."
I watched as Grace ran her fingers over the surface, her face contemplative. "I think it's brilliant. People are always looking for ways to make their lives easier. And if you can make these affordable…"
I nodded, encouraged by her response. "That's the goal. Affordable and practical for everyday use. Not just for Pokémon Trainers, but for anyone who needs to store or carry something efficiently."
Grandpa John sat back in his chair, eyes narrowing slightly. "This could be a game-changer, Owen. But I'm not going to sugarcoat it—it'll be tough. You'll face resistance from industries that already have their own storage solutions. And let's not forget about the logistics. How do we mass-produce something like this?"
"Well, that's where I think we can get creative," I said, growing more confident. "We start small. Test with local businesses, build relationships with the right manufacturers, and take it step by step. Once we prove the concept, the big players will have no choice but to come on board."
I could see the wheels turning in Grandpa's head, and it gave me hope. He wasn't just dismissing the idea. He was considering it. And if I could get his support, I could push forward with the next steps.
"This isn't just about making money," I continued, feeling the need to clarify. "This is about creating something that could change the way we live. Something that could help people, even in small ways. Like I said, not just for Pokémon Trainers, but for anyone."
Grace finally smiled, handing the capsule back to me. "I like it, Owen. I think it's a fantastic idea. And I agree, it's not just about making money. It's about bringing something useful to the world."
Grandpa John nodded slowly, his gaze softening. "I see your vision, Owen. It'll take time, and it won't be easy, but I believe it's worth pursuing."
I exhaled, relieved. For the first time in a while, I felt like I was on the right track. I wasn't just trying to live up to the Hammond legacy; I was creating my own path. And with Golett by my side, I felt like I could make it happen.
"Thanks, Grandpa. Thanks, Grace," I said, feeling the weight of the moment settle in. "This is just the beginning."
I took a deep breath, my gaze drifting to the invention before me. But it wasn't just about the technology or the product—it was about something much more personal. For decades, the Hammond family had quietly contributed to the world, leaving a legacy woven into the fabric of scientific and technological advancement, but never seeking recognition. We'd been content to work in the background, letting others take the spotlight. But this... this was different. This invention wasn't just a breakthrough in convenience; it was a permanent mark on the world.
With this, the Hammond name would no longer remain hidden in the shadows. It would spread through society, from the smallest towns to the largest cities. This wasn't just a product; it was a statement. A way to ensure that the family legacy would be remembered—not just in whispered conversations or dusty old books, but in the hands of everyday people. It would be in homes, on the streets, with trainers and non-trainers alike. The work we'd done in silence, the foundation built over generations, would be etched into history.
And beyond that, it would protect the legacy from being erased. If there was one thing I'd worried over the years, it was that family history was completely removed in the original series. But with this, I was building something permanent, something that couldn't easily be swept aside or forgotten. This was my way of ensuring that, no matter what happened in the future, the Hammond family name and our contributions would be remembered. Forever.