Heart and Soul

Ch. 1: Better Starting a Step than Staying Still

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“Blazekin is unable to battle! The match is over!!” The crowd roared as a Swampert stood triumphant over a Blazekin. The Blazekin’s trainer returned the fire bird humanoid as smiled sadly. The defeated trainer walked across the field as he placed Blazekin’s pokeball away. The two participants shook hands as the crowd cheered again. The loser of the match ruffled his messy black hair as he laughed sadly.

“Good job Shamoba you tried. Welp…looks like I didn’t make it. Congratulations.” The two nodded and went their separate ways, the winner to continue the league, the loser to return home. He walked outside of the arena and looked back at the battlefield his Pokémon just fought in. He heard footsteps towards him. The boy turned over to a girl whose long black hair is tined in a bun thanks to the support of a ribbon and two hair sticks.

“You alright Zephyr?” The boy looked at the girl for a moment as if to think of a response and shrugged.

“I think I could’ve pushed for fifteenth place but it wasn’t bad overall. I can live being in sixteenth.” Zephyr stretched himself. “Welp Meili, let’s go. The spectator seats aren’t going to fill themselves.” He placed his hands in his pants pockets and walked past her. Meili following soon after as staff started to get the arena ready for the next match.

It’s been about two weeks so since that grand match. Zephyr awoke from his bed; his hair was a complete mess as he slowly lifted his head from his pillow. He slightly tilted his head over to see his Delcatty. The cat walked up to her trainer as he proceeded to give out the usual pet behind the ears. He slowly got out of his bed and started to get changed for the day.

Zephyr walked down the stairs now fully dressed in a light blue t-shirt and jeans. If one thing can be said about his house is that it was restless in the mornings due to the family’s habit of allowing their Pokémon outside of their pokeballs. Shamoba was out carrying the laundry. Sleeping on the couch was a Pikachu. Carrying their breakfast was a Pokémon with a large flower on his head but tiny arms and legs that somehow supported it. He bent down and took the plate of French toast from the flower Pokémon’s hands.

“Thank you Hua.” Zephyr looked over at the table. Sitting there was a short girl wearing a light blue barrette over her short black hair and wearing a long blue one piece dress. Not far preparing more toast is a tall woman with long but slightly messy black hair, her blue clothing protected by a red apron. “Hey Mom, I’m going back out to the ranch to check on my other Pokémon then head over to the Frontier.”

“Okay, but remember to get the groceries alright?” Zephyr nodded at his mom’s words and looked over at the couch.

“Churai?” The electric mouse slowly started to wake up. “Koroene and I are heading out. Want to come with?” The Pikachu yawned and slowly started to hop out of the couch and walk with his trainer. As the group of a boy, his cat, and his mouse left, the little girl looked out the door where he exited and then looked back at him.

“Hey mom, want me tape the grocery list to him later so he won’t forget again?”

“That would be delightful, Fuuka.”

Zephyr opened the door to the large barn to be greeted by a wide variety of creatures. Some of whom are stationed in a large water tank on his left and beds of hay on his right. Zephyr waved hello to everyone. His various Pokémon returned the greeting. Zephyr walked up to the Pokémon and many of them gathered as close as they can. A Flygon let out a yelp of happiness. A Walrein sitting next to an icebox slowly let out a yawn. A Medicham leapt off one of the higher sections of the barn and down next to him. Levitating toward him with a smile was a Glalie. Zephyr gave each of these Pokémon a pet before climbing a ladder that lead to a platform near a water tank.

“Hello to you guys too.” Coming out of the water is a Gyarados, a Crawdaunt, and a Gorebyss. He reached out to pet these Pokémon too. “Are you all fed?” Most of his Pokémon cried out in approval. Soon he heard the sound of the door being moved, looking over at Fuuka. “Oh Fuuka, need any th…?” A grocery list was tapped upon his face as he walked over to her.

“You’re doing groceries. We let off the hook for almost a year.” Fuuka then turned over to push Zephyr out the barn. Zephyr wanted to point out that he was kind of traveling around Hoenn during that time. He quickly took off the tape and looked at the list. “Don’t worry; I’ll look after everyone while you’re out doing your shopping. Oh you might want this since you’re not one to take fairies.” Fuuka tossed Zephyr over a pokeball. He smiled and then Gonfurai flew out of the barn, Zephyr running after him before jumping on its back to ride across the city skies.

A girl with long black hair slowly crawled out of bed, her long hair intensely messy as she weakly reached over to grab her Pokenav. She opened it and sees that it was early afternoon. She let out a huge yawn before getting up. She took out a comb and looked at the mirror. This was going to take a bit long.

She walked on into the living room, her hair still in the process of being combed. She walked toward a note situated on the table as she still continued to try to get a knot in her hair.

“Hey Meili, I have to go make more Shell bells today so go grocery shopping for me will you? Your loving sister Meihui.” Meili yanked at her hair knot in annoyance. “Oh well, it’s not like I can send Slippy to do it again with how well that worked out last time.” A smiling Quagsire popped out from behind the couch thinking it was being referred to positively. “Come on Slippy we’re going out today.” Meili finally managed to untangle the knot in her hair and placed the comb down on the table. She threw on a light red jacket over her similarly colored shirt and dusted any hair that got on it and her jeans as she headed on out, Slippy following along holding a black bag for his trainer.

“Hey!” A store clerk waved hello as Gonfurai slowly descended, Zephyr getting off the dragon and placing the dragon back within its pokeball. He waved back hello in return. “Grocery shopping for once?”

“Little sis asked me to do today.” Zephyr said with a laugh. “But she promised to groom the Pokémon back at the barn at my behalf so it isn’t all that bad.” He was about to enter in the mart before he heard someone walk up the stone steps. “Oh Meili!” He waved hello to the girl. She smiled and waved in return, Slippy, who wasn’t too far behind, waved as well. The two walked on into the store together to collect their respective groceries.

“Are you going to visit Domaru later? He says he hasn’t seen you in a while.”

“I will when I get to.” Zephyr said. “I just need to make sure everyone back in the barn is alright.” Meili looked at Zephyr and decided to not push the topic. “Oh Meili, you and your sister are free to have dinner with us again.” Meili sighed.

“Come on, we mooch off your mother a lot as it is. Besides I already have plans for tonight’s dinner.” Meili looked around and saw that Slippy is holding a bag full of various snacks. She sighed sadly. “Just get enough for the rest of us.” Zephyr then snapped his fingers as if he remembered something.

“How is Banafushigi?”

“Still sleeping at home. Being a Venasaur, he takes up a lot of room though.” They both went to the register as they both waited on their respective shopping to be done. “Welp, I’m going to be heading home.” Meili said as she started to collect some of her grocery bags, Slippy appeared to want to hold on to one but Meili didn’t allow him…most likely because she knows that Quagsire skin is very slippery. Zephyr carried his own grocery bags on out.

“Hey Mom! I got the groceries.” Zephyr said as Gonfurai opened the door for him and he walked on in the house. He placed the groceries on the table. He looked up blankly at the ceiling. He was pondering what his friend suggested earlier. “Hey mom, I’m going to go out for a bit!” Without even hearing an answer he jumped on to his Flygon. “Come on Gonfurai.” The pair took to the skies as Zephyr’s mother walked on in the living room, his mother laughing sadly at the fact that her son didn’t say anything without hearing a voice from her.

Zephyr got off the dragon before placing him back in its Pokeball. He is front of a rather large building in comparison to most of the other houses here. He pushed on one of the double doors. Within was what is to be expected in a library, shelves upon shelves. Some tables and chairs within as well for sitting. Maybe some soft chairs lying around for those who desired more comfort. What stood out was the circular desk in the center. Looking up from the book in his hand, the blonde haired boy pushed up his glasses as he closed it seeing who entered. Zephyr waved hello.

“Hey Domaru!!”

“We’re in a library, can you keep it down?” Domaru placed the book aside and stood up as Zephyr ran on over. “Not running around would also be a help.”

“Sorry I haven’t been around much.” Domaru shrugged as he took another book in the pile next to him.

“Not a big deal.” Domaru started to flip to the first page of his book. “Doing alright since the league?” Zephyr nodded. He looked up from his book. “You’ve been sticking around doing nothing for about a few months now. Waiting for the next league?” Zephyr shrugged as he started to lean his back on the desk. “You aren’t really just going to laze around here in Sootopolis are you?” Zephyr laughed sadly.

“I gave it my shot and lost. I did what I could.” The messy black haired boy looked blankly at the ceiling. Domaru sighed as he closed the book he was reading. “Did I say anything odd?”

“Look, I don’t know what your deal is. Your views on batting are hilariously inconsistent.” Domaru got up from the chair smiling sadly as he pushed up his glasses. “Got any books you wanna order aside from your visit?”

“You know how I am, Domaru, I fall asleep if I read too long.” Domaru placed palm against his face, trying his best not to laugh.

“Visit your teacher too when you get the chance.” Domaru is about to walk off but he turned back over to Zephyr. “Oh and tell Meili and Meihui that they better remember to return the books they borrowed tomorrow.” Zephyr nodded. “It’s nice seeing you again.”

“Where you going?”

“Oi, I technically have work to do here. Not everyone is like you.” Domaru went off, leaving Zephyr on his own again.

“…guess I can go play at the Battle Frontier then.”

…

The Battle Frontier was a beautifully constructed carnival for battling trainers all over the Hoenn region. Here, everyone’s knowledge, guts, tactics, luck, spirit, bravery, and ability are pushed to its absolute limits. It certainly gave Zephyr something to do as he presented his ID to be allowed inside this paradise of battle.

“Hello! I’d like to take the Battle Tower challenge?” Today, there is beauty in simplicity. The Battle Tower is simply a three on three single Pokémon match and the objective is to climb up the tower as much as he can. “Let’s see…” He started to ponder which of his Pokémon to choose. “Oh well, I can choose every seven battles, let’s wing it everyone!”

“…how lax.” A girl said as she watched Zephyr from the corner of her eye.

…

“Battle Number Thirty Four!” Zephyr and his youngster opponent both reached for their Pokeballs and tossed them forward.

“Zarigarshi!”

“Tyranitar!” A large green Pokémon emerged, summoning a sandstorm with his roar.

“Crab Hammer!” The crab’s fist like claws glowed blue and Zarigarshi lunged in the general direction of Tyranitar…only for him to catch the claw much like how one would catch a fist.

“Thunderbolt!” Within the storm of sand were blasts of electricity. Zephyr winced and drew out two Pokeballs.

“Zarigarshi, return! Shamoba!!” He threw his Pokeball in the air and unleashed the flaming bird humanoid. “Brick Break!” Blazekin swiftly entered the storm and slammed a knee into the Tyranitar. A moment later, the rock and dark type Pokémon collapsed from the strike.

“Gh!” The boy readied his second pokeball with one hand after returning Tyranitar with the other. “Kabutops! Water Pulse!!”

“Shamoba!” As soon as the sickle wielding ancient Pokémon was sent out, he launched a blast of water from his mouth that cleared the sandstorm. The Blazekin couldn’t dodge, the best he could do is raise his arms and hope for the best as he endured the explosion of water. “Now!!” As soon as the water and steam died down, Shamoba cleared the distance between himself and his opponent and slammed his knee against Kabutops with enough force to send him out of the arena.

“Not good…” He readied his next Pokémon “Ludicolo!”

“Shamoba, return! Zarigarshi! Aerial Ace!!” The armored crab dashed across the field and slashed the Ludicolo with his fist like claws, an instant knock out and a win in Zephyr’s favor. He took a deep breath after the win.

“Congratulations! After winning 34 battles, you have gained the interest of the Frontier Brain!” Zephyr tilted his head. “If you want, you can take a break and come back another time or resume your challenge.” He pondered for a moment and looked at Zarigarshi. The crab lightly bopped Zephyr’s leg. It seemed the decision was all him.

“Sure.”

“Then let us heal your Pokémon. Good luck in your match.” Zephyr called back Zarigarshi and presented the Pokeball he is contained it and two others to the attendant. Coming in from the door opposite of Zephyr was a petite lady of purple attire…and purple hair. Her eyes of the same color gazed upon her challenger with some boredom.

“Greetings…my name is Anabel, I am the Salon Maiden, and in charge of running the Battle Tower. I have heard several rumors about you.” Zephyr laughed.

“Th-…”

“In all honesty, what I have heard does not seem attractive in anyway.” Zephyr stopped and tilted his head in confusion. “Now then, the reason I’ve come to see you. Let me see your ability in its entirety.”

“You got it.” Zephyr enthusiastically readied his pokeball. In comparison, Anabel was casual in her approach as she readied her own pokeball. “Zarigarshi!”

“Alakazam.” She casually tossed the ball and the bipedal dual spoon wielder emerged. Zarigarshi snapped his claws in an attempt to intimidate. Anabel and Alakazam could both care less.

“You got this! Night Sla-!” Before Zarigarshi could even initiate the attack, Alakazam teleported across the field and slammed a fist of electricity into the crab. “Ah!”

“Surprised?” Zephyr blinked and focused back on Anabel and returned the now unconscious Crawdaunt. “You honestly shouldn’t be.” Zephyr grabbed Shamoba’s pokeball…then stopped. Blazekin’s part fighting typing will make it impossible for Shamoba to defeat Alakazam.

“Koroene!” The cat hissed as she was sent out and prepared herself for battle, ready to pounce at Alakazam.

“Psychic.” Alakazam raised his arms. However, it did not matter how much more powerful and fast the psychic was. Koroene lunged, and slammed into Alakazam’s stomach before he could finish the attack. The spoons were dropped, and Alakazam collapsed unconscious “…Sucker Punch.” An attack that allows the user to attack first when the user attacks, this meant that even with the cat’s inferior speed in comparison, the attack will make contact. “Alakazam return.” Anabel readied her next pokeball. “Snorlax.” The large sleepy Pokémon was sent out. Zephyr smirked.

“Koroene!” Zephyr returned his Delcatty. “Shamoba!” Zephyr threw out the Pokeball, Blazekin was ready to charge the moment he was unleashed. “Sky Uppercut!!” With a sprint, Blazekin punched the Pokémon’s belly. There was a moment of silence. “Um…did I wi-?” Blazekin was slammed back by a headbutt.

“Pay more attention.” Zephyr blinked as he noticed Snorlax inhaling…a lot.

“Sha-!” He couldn’t react in time. The Snorlax released an immense breathe that blew Shamoba back into his Pokeball. Zephyr found himself forced to release Koroene. “Koroene re-!” He noticed Snorlax seemingly ready to move…run even.

“I see you are not without sense.” Anabel pointed out. “However…” Snorlax had a fist raised. Zephyr shuddered.

“Koroene, Fake Out!” The cat sped up and clapped her paws in an attempt to stun Snorlax…but another Snorlax appeared beside Koroene and slammed his fist into her. “Wh-?! Substitute, When?!” Zephyr pondered as to when the Snorlax likely created the substitute. “Pay more attention…” His eyes widened upon realization that Snorlax made it when Blazekin was recovering from the headbutt. “Gh!” He returned the unconscious Koroene. “Shamoba, come back out!” He has no other Pokémon to send back so Snorlax can’t use Whirlwind. “Double Kick!” The Blazekin braced himself and slammed his knee into Snorlax. “One…” The Snorlax he hit disappeared in a puff of smoke. “…two…” Shamoba spin his heel and then dashed to slam his foot into the Snorlax, sending the large Pokémon back. Anabel patted the big Pokémon on the back. “Still able to go?” Anabel nodded.

“Please be on guard.”

“Got it, Shamoba, Sky Uppercut!” Shamoba dashed across the field. With his speed, it was easy to go from one side of the other in a blink of an eye. His fist slammed into the belly of Snorlax once more. Zephyr’s eyes narrowed. His opponent held on.

“I expected you to be more cautious.”

“Huh?” Both Zephyr and Shamoba finally took notice of Snorlax leaning back.

“Zen Headbutt.” Snorlax’s head clashed with Shamoba’s forehead. “…I figured you should’ve seen this coming.” Zephyr winced, unable to argue. He looked to his Blazekin. Despite, the fire bird humanoid’s struggle, he collapsed, unable to fight any further. “Very disappointing.”

“Huh?”

“I’m afraid telling you will only hinder you.” Anabel returned her Snorlax. “Feel free to challenge me again.” She walked on out of the arena, leaving Zephyr to quickly go over and attend to his Blazekin.

“Please let me guide you to the entrance.” Zephyr nodded at the attendant after returning Shamoba. “Will you re-take the challenge?” He shook his head. “Then I shall heal your Pokémon. Have a nice rest of your day.”

…

Zephyr arrived at his fourth and last stop before home. Sootopolis was known for being built on a dead volcano whose center was filled with water. In the center of this gigantic pool was an island. The island served as the Gym of this city. With inside was where Zephyr learned to battle since his arrival here. He pushed open the doors and walked on inside.

“How nostalgic…” Zephyr walked up to the large arena made of ice that the challenger and Gym Leader would do battle for the Rain Badge. He remembered all the lessons that were instilled on him and the other gym trainers,

“Oh you’re here.” Zephyr turned around to an older man with blue hair, donned in mainly white and light blues. He adjusted the white beret on his head. Zephyr bowed politely towards him.

“It’s nice to see you again, Wallace.” Zephyr raised his head.

“So what brings an old gym trainer here?”

“I am visiting. I figured I’d do so since I haven’t done so since my loss at the League.” Zephyr sat down not too far from the ice made arena. Wallace dusted his white cloths and Zephyr did the same. “What have you been up to, teacher?”

“I’ve been training. I have to keep up being in that Champion’s seat while Steven is getting ready to explore a new region.” Zephyr arched an eyebrow. “He heard about some unique stones over in Sinnoh and wanted to see them for himself.” Zephyr gave out an understanding ‘ah.’ “What about you?”

“Uhhh…” Zephyr took a moment to ponder. “I guess I’m just hanging around? Playing at the Battle Frontier?” Wallace arched an eyebrow. “If I am going to be honest…I’m not completely sure where I go from here?” His teacher scratched the back of his head before snapping his fingers.

“Why don’t you go on a journey?”

“Wha?”

“Just go on a journey. Wander about, meet new people. If you’re not sure where to go what better way than going back out in the world and explore? It’s part of the beauty of life no?” Zephyr pondered once more at the words of his teacher. “I ask that you think about this for a while.”

“I will.”

“This isn’t going to be another incident where you forget the moment you leave the building?”

“That rarely happens.”

“First day as a gym trainer you stood right outside the door during break and never came back in.”

“First days are always the most challenging one!”

“You did it the third day as well.” Zephyr didn’t have an excuse for that one. Wallace let out a small laugh. “Anyhow, just think about it. It isn’t too much of a problem if you need more time. Besides, with how long I’ve known you, you need the time.”

“Thank you, teacher.”

Zephyr opened the door to his home. It seemed he was just in time for dinner. He was about to go straight to the table but his younger sister, as if waiting for it, slammed her foot on his toe.

“Bro, you’re fourteen. Please wash your hands.”

“Sorry Fuuka.” Zephyr quickly went over and rinsed his hands before sitting over at the table with his family. “Um…should you remove the hat?”

“You know how I feel about such matters.”

“But you stepped on my foot for not washing my hands!”

“You don’t see me eating with my hat!”

“That’s enough children!” Zephyr and Fuuka kept their mouths shut at the command of their mother. She let out a pleasant smile after her declaration. “Now let us enjoy dinner.” The family sat down and started to enjoy their risotto. They did so in silence due to their mother’s slight raised voice earlier. Zephyr was the first to bring a conversation to the dinner table.

“Hey mom.” Her head turned over to Zephyr. “What is a place you like to go to when you feel like you’re stuck in one spot?” Zephyr’s mother did travel before she decided on a career of looking after Pokémon on a ranch (though one wondered how ideal a location one of the upper sections of Sootopolis is.) She was in a moment of thought and smiled.

“When I was a little girl, my older sister walked me through Johto. One place that I’ll always remember is a small shrine within one of the Whirl Islands.” She lay back on her chair and smiled as she went through the memories. Her eye moved over to her son. “Do you want to go on a journey?” His younger sister was also curious of the question. Zephyr took a few long bites of his risotto to think for a moment.

“I guess…its better than sitting here.” Zephyr said. “I think I stayed in one place long enough?” Both of the other members of his family looked at each other. He wasn’t sure with his answer. “I guess I should be surer about things huh?” His mother shook her head and gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder.

“Sometimes one needs to see the world for a bit. That is the purpose of a journey is it not?” She stopped patting her son on the shoulder. “Many trainers come into journeys expecting to discovery new things…and all the time they do. They don’t always come out the same person as they did…and if they do, well that is a rare occasion. Tell me, Zephyr, what did you think of your journey through Hoenn?” Zephyr looked blankly at the table.

Really…his journey was nothing of note. He just went out, battled and gained experience. Zephyr gained many new friends and awakened to some skills but it was nothing of note and ended in a typical fashion. He…really can’t muster any thoughts.

“I…met new friends?” Zephyr referred to Shamoba, the Blazekin he obtained as a Torchic when he explored Little Root, Remcha, the Meditite he caught in Mt.Pyre that then evolved, and finally Gonfurai, the Flygon he caught back when it was a Trapinch living in the desert route of 111. All of his other Pokémon were those he had before he started on his journey. “I…don’t have any other adventures to compare it too huh?”

“Take tonight to think about it.” His mother said. They had nothing further to say that night.

Zephyr slowly opened the ranch door. He looked around to see his Pokémon happy to see him. Churai and Koroene ran on in to speak with the other Pokémon. He then sat down in the center as they all circled around him. He looked over at his water Pokémon. Dosgyara the Gyarados, Zerugatodo the Walrein, Bisusakura the Gorebyss, and Zarigarshi the Crawdaunt. The only exception to this side of the room was Goorioni the Glalie. These were all Pokémon he caught before he started on his journey, back when he was learning under Wallace. He looked over at the Pokémon that joined his team when he trekked through Hoenn.

“Everyone, I think I’m going to head off to Johto.” Zephyr looked at his party. “Any of you who want to stay around, feel free to do so. I want this to be a joint decision.” The various Pokémon looked at each other. Some were in thought. However, the first two to step up were Churai and Koroene. Zarigarshi was also particularly excited about the prospect. The Pokémon looked at each other and appeared to be in conversation before they just looked back at their trainer. Zephyr titled my head. “Just…go with it?” They all nodded. “…very well then.”

Meili yawned as she walked over and picked up the sheets of her bed. She eyed the beeping yellow device that rested on her desk in frustration and walked over. She quickly picked up and opened the Pokenav. A screen came out and displayed a message. Meili smiled nervously.

“This is so last minute it hurts…”

Zephyr stretched himself before throwing on his orange backpack over blue light coat. He checked the four Pokeballs attached to his belt. Resting inside was Churai, Koroene, Zarigarshi, and Gonfurai. He figured he’d carry these four for now and then pick up the rest of them at his leisure when he made it to Johto. Right at the door way was his mother and sister here to see him off.

“Remember to call frequently.” Zephyr laughed at his mother’s typical concern but the stern look she was now giving with her eyes made his laughter stop. He looked over at his sister.

“Be good okay.”

“Says the person who decided to pack his bags and leave to go on a self-help journey.” Harsh, but Zephyr didn’t mind and instead grabbed his family to embrace theme…much to his sister’s utter distaste.

Zephyr descended from his Flygon. Waiting outside the door of one of the white stone houses was Meili and beside her was a red backpack that matched her red long sleeves. She smiled and picked up her backpack.

“Hey, you good to go?”

“My sister nearly pulled a few hairs out but she none the less let me go.” Meili placed her backpack on. “So we’re heading to Johto? How far away is that even?” Zephyr shrugged. “Just going to wing it as usual huh?” Meili let out a sigh, though despite the non-verbal declaration of annoyance, she was smiling. She dusted her long dark blue skirt before hopping on the back on Gonfurai. “Let’s go. We have a ship to catch.” Zephyr walked up and sat on the base of Gonfurai’s neck.

“Let’s go buddy.” Gonfurai nodded and took off.

“So, any particular reason for this journey?” Zephyr looked back at Meili before his eyes wandered to the sky.

“Still a work in progress huh?” A chuckle escaped Zephyr’s lips.

“Maybe that’s why…”

Ch. 3: Blossoming of Battle

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Dosgyara lowered his head unto the sands of the Cherrygrove City beach. Zephyr leapt off the giant sea snake. He held Meili’s hand as she gently got off the neck of Gyarados. Zephyr took out a pokeball after giving him a gentle pat on the head well done and sent him back within it. The two looked over a small beach city. There were plenty of houses though one can surmise that they were homes rather than bustling apartments and large buildings one would expect from a city.

“So there we’re here.” Meili looked up at the early night sky. “Let’s head for the Pokémon Center and figure out what to do from there.” She stretched herself. “Let’s see what we can have for dinner.” Zephyr nodded and started to walk along with Meili. They increased their pace seeing as how a giant sea snake coming upon the beach shore tend to attract attention. Unfortunately…

“You’re new here, aren’t you? I can tell!” Zephyr and Meili shuddered as they were accosted by a balding old man in a green sweater and jeans. “That’s ok! Everyone is new at some point!” The two fourteen year olds smiled though it was a little bit out of nervousness rather than returning the excitement the old man is expressing. “If you’d like, I can teach you a few things.”

“Zephyr.” Meili muttered. “This guy is a weirdo!”

“But we don’t know our way around! Come on, this is faster than wandering around.”

“You have a Flygon you can get from the PC!”

“Ok, then! Follow me!” The old man was not going to let their quiet argument continue as the two followed; Zephyr in excitement and Meili in chagrin. They walked to the beach and to the other side of town. It wasn’t that much a stressful walk. It was then they finally made it in front of the iconic red roofed building. “This is a Pokémon Center. They heal your Pokémon in no time at all.”

“Okaywegotwhatwecameherefornowboltin.” Meili whispered as she reached into her bag.

“Shhh, he isn’t finished yet.” Meili rolled her eyes in exasperation at Zephyr’s ill-timed manners.

“You’ll be relying on them a lot, so you better learn about them.” Zephyr nodded. Meili twacked him in the head with the paper fan she kept in her bag as a silent reminder that Zephyr should already know this. “Now let us go around the city!” Meili twacked her own face with the fan in an attempt to hide her groan.

The night has progressed alongside the trio that wandered the city. Meili was constantly hitting herself with the fan to the point where her own face was red. She was also trying her best not to hit Zephyr continuously for not going into the Pokémon Center and getting themselves out of this wretched tour.

“Here, is my house.” The old man declared. He turned to them. “For your effort keeping up with me, I’ll give you my running shoes! They’re still warm!”

“No, Meili you mustn’t attack your elders!!”

“Let go off me, Zephyr, I’m gonna feed him his own damn shoes!!!”

“Run, guide gent, run!” Zephyr held Meili’s wrists as she raised her paper fan as if it was some kind of baseball bat as the old man slowly went back into the safety of his home seeing as how he more or less crossed a line he really shouldn’t have crossed.

Zephyr walked into the Pokémon Center, his face as covered as fan marks as Meili’s. Zephyr placed down three pokeballs while Meili placed down four. The nurse took them to give them a quick check up.

“Oh, is there a room free?” The nurse nodded. The two gathered their pokeballs back after the nurse presented them back to their trainers. The two walked up to the stairs and walked on into one of the residential rooms of the Pokémon Center. Most of them would have rooms for trainers to stay in. This one was a simple room with two beds and a table. “I’ll be going to shower first.” Meili said as she threw her bag and belt of Pokeballs on to the bed. Zephyr watched as she went into the bathroom.

“She’s going to use all the hot water because I followed him isn’t she?” Zephyr said to Koroene’s pokeball as he picked it up from his belt. The cat simply let out a yawn and went back to napping, not caring for her trainer’s future cold washing.

“Okay so New Bark Town is a good thirty to forty minutes away.” Meili said as she lifted her finger from the map that decorated the Pokémon Center wall. “So we’d have plenty of time before lunch.” Zephyr nodded. “Anything you want to do in town before heading out?” He took a moment to think about it before snapping his fingers.

“I’m going to go ask my family back home about something.”

“Alright, I’ll be outside then.” Meili started to walk outside of the center. She listened to the various chirping of birds. She adjusted the hair bands that bridged her head and her hair bun. She adjusted her belt of pokeballs.

“Hey, you a trainer?” Meili looked up from her belt over at a slender, slightly younger boy with shoulder length red hair and dark red eyes. What stood out to her is the red trimmed black coat with a high collar and the dark violet pants. What almost dissipated the boy’s serious expression for Meili is the fact that his shoes matched the color of his coat. Where did one find shoes like those? “Tch…what a waste.”

“Pardon?”

“Don’t you get what I’m saying?” Meili jumped back from a sphere of fire slamming into the ground. “I’m going to use you as the stepping stone for my Cyndaquil.” A small dark blue quadruped with a yellow underbelly landed before the red haired boy. Meili reached for one of the Pokeballs attached to her belt.

“Great…one of the arrogant ones.” Meili said. “Slippy!” Meili sent out a Quagsire. The light blue amphibian gave his opponent a big smile. Cyndaquil’s response was to get on all four and unleash fire from the four red spots on his back. “Water Gun!” Slippy opened his mouth and spat out a blast of water that Cyndaquil easily dashed away from.

“How disappointingly predictable. Cyndaquil use Swift.” The echidna like Pokémon swallowed a lot of air, held his mouth for a moment, and spat out a squall of golden energy stars that blasted into Slippy. “Headbutt.” Cyndaquil began to charge.

“Saves me the trouble of coming to you! Aqua Tail!!” Slippy quickly spun around, planning to slam a water cloaked tail into Cyndaquil.

“Don’t make me laugh…” Cyndaquil leapt up in the air to dodge out of the way of the attack. “Double Kick!” Cyndaquil slammed his tiny feet into Slippy’s face before leaping off of back in front of his trainer. Meili bit her lower lip in frustration. She hated to admit but the way its going; she’s only going to back up his swelling ego. “It’s almost insulting that they allow everyone who wants to do so become a trainer. Let’s end this Cyndaquil. Headbutt.” Cyndaquil once more began to charge however…

“Oh don’t get full of yourself! Mud Bomb!!” Slippy upchucked a sphere of mud that blasted Cyndaquil. Cyndaquil slammed on to the ground, covered in heavy mud. Silver’s eyes wandered from Slippy over to his Cyndaquil.

“Headbutt one more time…” Cyndaquil got back up and sped over to Quagsire, however, the Quagsire spun around and slapped his tail into the Cyndaquil, the echidna falling on to the ground, weak from the direct hits.

“Mud Bomb slows down the target. Sorry but your only advantage is gone.” The boy looked at Cyndaquil with disappointment. He sighed and took out a pokeball to return the Cyndaquil.

“You’re doing okay for someone weak…” Meili arched an eyebrow.

“Odd denial of reality issues you have there.”

“Go! Rhyhorn!!” The boy threw another Pokeball from his belt with his free hand. It bursted open to unleash a rock plated rhinoceros-like creature. It glared at his opponent and pointed his horn toward Slippy. “Rock Polish.”

“Mud Bomb again!” Slippy launched another sphere of mud but Rhyhorn managed to slip away from the attack. Somehow, the Rhyhorn’s body shimmered. “Tch…increase in speed huh? Switch to Watergu-!”

“Earthquake.” Rhyhorn raised one of his front legs and slammed it into the ground. Soon the ground around Meili and Slippy began to crumble. Meili and Slippy both tripped over the collapsing ground. The shaking of the ground ceased at last. Meili and Slippy were both covered in rock and dust.

“Ow…that was a cheap shot…” Meili used her arms to support herself up to see Silver and Rhyhorn at the edge of the hole they created.

“This absurdity ends…” Rhyhorn rose one of his front feet once more. “Earthqua-.”

“Koroene, Fake Out!!” The vanilla and purple cat leapt through the air and made a loud resounding clap in front of Rhyhorn’s face, disorientating the rock rhino momentarily. Koroene leapt off of the Rhyhorn back over to Zephyr’s side. “Attacking your opponent while they’re trapped in a hole is in bad taste.”

“Hmph...a battle is a battle…”

“A battle is one that is done with good sport.” Zephyr’s voice had a drop of hostility. The red haired boy let out a laugh as he returned Rhyhorn and prepared his other Pokeball. He opened it to send out Cyndaquil. Free of the mud, but none the less still endured the damage from his last fight.

“I want to see if you’re weak like the other one. If you have a problem with it, you’re free to be Cyndaquil’s sand bag!” Cyndaquil’s back flames shot out as he opened his mouth to launch a sphere of fire.

“Koroene, Water Pulse!” The cat launched a sphere of blue water from her mouth that collided with the sphere of its opposing element. A shroud of fog covered both of them. Meili took the opportunity to quickly return Slippy inside his pokeball as she started to climb out of the hole. “Churai, Thunderwave!” The fog cleared showing the cat replaced with an electric mouse that fired a thin bolt of electricity that struck Cyndaquil.

“Tch…”

“Cyndaquil is in no position to battle. Call it back.”

“Ember.” It took a great struggle but Cyndaquil fired a sphere of fire…that Zephyr and Churai easily dodged out of the way from. The boy sighed and opened Cyndaquil’s pokeball to call him back into his container. “What a disappointment.” Zephyr followed his opponent’s line of vision toward his pokeball. His hands clutched into a fist. “Rhyhorn. Clean up the mess.” He sent out the rock rhino once more.

“There is only one mess here…Churai, use Brick Break!” The Pikachu nodded at his trainer’s command and charged. He leaped up in the air with the intent to slam his tail down on the head of the Rhyhorn.

“Rock Polish.” Rhyhorn shuddered and shook until his skin shined. He got out of the way of the attack; Churai slammed his tail hard on the ground enough to crack it. “Headbutt.” Rhyhorn smashed his head into Churai, sending the Pikachu flying.

“Churai!” Meili ran over and caught the Pikachu as he was about to crash on to the ground.

“And here I was hoping you’d be a challenge considering how easily you stopped Rhyhorn’s attack. This has been a wa-.” The boy stopped as he noticed sparks surging through his Rhyhorn. Zephyr readied another Pokeball.

“You were careless. Churai’s static hit you. Unless you have a third Pokémon, I highly suggest you go to a Pokémon Center and leave this town be.” Zephyr pressed the switch on the Pokeball to send out Koroene, the cat ready to react to anything the boy might do. His eyes wandered over to the cat then at his Rhyhorn.

“Hmph…are you happy you won?” The boy returned his Rhyhorn back in his Pokeball and turned around…away from the Pokémon Center. The red head found himself stopped as Koroene dashed in front of him.

“The Pokémon Center is that way.”

“I have items. Besides, my Pokémon don’t need to be coddl-.” The boy didn’t get a chance to finish that thought. It wasn’t as if he was physically able to what with his right cheek being on the receiving end of a very hard punch from Zephyr.

“Oi!” Meili’s call to Zephyr fell silent as he picked up the boy by the collar of his shirt.

“Take them to the center!”

“I don’t need you to tell me how to treat my Pokémon!” The boy kneed Zephyr in the stomach and then kicked him down. A card fell out of his coat pocket. Zephyr took notice of it. He reached over to it. “Oh no! You saw my name…” The boy quickly dashed and grabbed the card before running off. Zephyr quickly got up.

“Hey! Get back here!!” Meili walked over. Koroene also got in Zephyr’s way. She used her tail to point over at Churai, still exhausted and cradled in Meili’s arm. He took a deep breath and picked up Churai with into his own arms. “Let’s go back in and heal up.”

Zephyr walked on back out with Koroene, Churai resting in his Pokeball now that he is patched up so to speak. Meili walked on outside as well. Zephyr sighed and scratched the back of his head. Meili placed a hand on his shoulders.

“Hey…” Zephyr turned over to his friend with a smile.

“I’m alright now. Don’t worry. Let’s head to New Bark Town.” Meili slowly nodded.

The path between Cherrygrove to New Bark Town was not by any means large. There was a clear dirt road so they weren’t able to get lost. The road had nothing to note. Zephyr, Koroene, and Meili looked at the end of the road. There was a simple town, decorated by a few windmills. The three took in the breeze before walking on forward.

“Soo…you’re here…what now?” Zephyr looked at Meili and titled his head. She placed a palm against her face. “Still haven’t figured it out huh?” Zephyr scratched the back of his head in embarrassment.

“Well…I thought maybe if I started off in the same place most people did, I’d figure something out!”

“You said you’re on this journey to figure things out right?” Koroene let out a sigh. The cat stretched herself but then noticed something. She tapped her trainer’s upper leg with her tail. “Hmm?”

“What’s wrong Koroene?” The two looked over to a rather large building. There was a police motorcycle parked in front of it. “Oh?” Zephyr started to walk forward. The door was open for them to peek on inside. As Zephyr walked on inside…

“Who are you?” Zephyr shuddered at the police man who dashed up to him flashing the flash light in his face...it was late afternoon but there was little need seeing as how the lights in the lab were on. “We are investigating the case of the missing Pokémon here…” The police man placed his hand on his chin in thought. He then flashed the light in Zephyr’s face again, the boy raising his arms to shield his eyes. “Rule number one: ‘whoever did it will come back to the site!’” Koroene whipped the man in the shin with his tail. “DID YOU JUST ASSUALT A POLICE OFFICER?!” Meili sighed as she looked on inside.

“Hold on a second, he has nothing to do with it.” A boy with black hair and a black cap with a golden stripe across it worn backwards walked up to the officer. Not far from the red jacket capped boy was a man with brown hair and a lab coat, the man nodding in agreement with what the boy said. “I saw a red-haired boy coming out of the direction of the lab. After that I went inside and Professor Elm and I found out the Cyndaquil was taken.”

“Red-haired boy?” Zephyr looked up in thought. “Odd…I battled a red haired boy with a Cyndaquil…” Meili sighed as she walked in. It appeared she couldn’t tolerate any more of this.

“Zephyr, we battled a guy like that earlier today!” Zephyr let out an ‘oh’. “However, we didn’t get his name officer. He just attacked us out of the blue. He was likely testing out his newly obtained Pokémon.” Zephyr let out another ‘oh’. “What?”

“His name was Silver. I saw his trainer card when it fell out of his pocket.”

“I see! So Silver was his name.” The police man said. “Thanks for helping my investigation! My next assignment is to search for this red-haired individual.” The officer went outside and got on his motorcycle to drive off. Meili and Koroene sighed as the officer left.

“Our law enforcement, ladies, gentleman, and other distinguished guests.”

“I’m glad they understand you are innocent.” Zephyr and Meili turned to the boy in the cap. He bowed. “Welp, I better get back to work Professor.” With the boy’s chosen attire of a red long sleeve jacket and black shorts that go past his knees, one wouldn’t think he worked in a lab. The professor sighed sadly as he pushed up his glasses.

“It’s terrible…usually a Pokémon raised by a bad person will turn out bad themselves.” He took notice of the two present. “Ah, sorry for this display, I’m Professor Elm. I can’t exactly distribute Pokémon since…well…”

“Don’t worry about it, we’re not starting out.” Meili said.

“We’re here because we heard this is where most trainers in Johto decide to begin their journey.” Zephyr began. “I…was hoping to find inspiration here to be honest.” Zephyr looked down and placed his hands in his coat pockets. “I am a trainer, participated in a league already…but I feel I don’t have much of a reason to do so.” He bent down and petted Koroene. “So, maybe I’ll find something here.” Professor Elm took a moment to think and then smile.

“You don’t have any plans right?” Zephyr nodded. “Why don’t you have dinner at my place tonight? We can talk.” Zephyr slowly nodded. “But first, I need to get my things together and see Gold off. Wait here a moment…” Professor Elm went off. Meili walked up in front of Zephyr; however, his eyes were still hazy and Koroene thought her trainer is petting her too many times. Meili snapped her fingers to get Zephyr’s attention.

“I believe what you said but you weren’t fully in the conversation.” Meili bent down to Zephyr’s level. “What’s on your mind?” Zephyr scratched the back of his head.

“I’m thinking about Silver.” Meili arched her eyebrow. “I’m thinking he stole that Rhyhorn too.” Zephyr started to stand up. “That Rhyhorn’s movements…it is clearly experienced in battle. But at that same time, it listened to his commands perfectly but did so with near perfect execution with barely his lead.” A stomach grumble was heard. “Um…”

“Maybe we should think about this after we get some food in you.” Meili looked away turning red.

“That…wasn’t…” Meili glared at him. “Okay.”

Professor Elm entered the upstairs living area of his lab with Zephyr, Meili, and Koroene behind him. Inside is a boy with a blue cap who ran up and gave the Professor a hug. A lady with long brown hair waved hello.

“Hey, honey, mind if we set up a little bit of extra dinner for our guests? I’ll handle the food for the Pokémon.”

“H-hey, we can handle our own…”

“Thank you!” Zephyr bowed, interrupting Meili. She sighed and bowed with.

“It is alright.” Mrs. Elm said. “We got plenty to go around. Why don’t you send out your Pokémon. I’m sure my son would like to see them.” Zephyr and Meili looked over to see the boy’s anticipated face. They looked at each other and shrugged.

“They shouldn’t weigh down the floor too much.” Zephyr said taking out two more Pokeballs. Meili took out four Pokeballs herself.

“Churai, Shamoba!” Zephyr sent out his Pikachu and Blazekin, both of whom stretched out. Meili can assume that Zephyr traded in his Gyarados for this Blazekin. She wasn’t sure why but she wasn’t going to pass judgments on her friend for his every action. Koroene sat alongside her companions.

“Slippy, Smiley, Shoulie, Banafushigi!” Meili sent out the blue amphibian she fought Silver with. A Mawile was sent out and turned her second large mouth away and gave the boy a smile with her proper face. Shoulie, the Beautifly, flew about inside the house. Banafushigi, the Venasaur, took up a fair amount of the corner. None the less, he seemed so content that one might’ve mistaken him for a house plant for a moment due to the large red flower on his back.

“Cool!” The boy was in awe of all the Pokémon present, in particular, the Blazekin, Mawile, Beautifly, and Delcatty. It took Zephyr and Meili a moment to realize that this was within reason seeing as how they possess Pokémon that are either rare or don’t live in the Johto region at all. “Tell me what these are.” Zephyr smiled and bent down to the child’s level. Meili did the same.

“Sure, we got time before dinner.”

Time: Between Chapter 3 and 4

---

“Ah, Chrysta! There you are! I needed to ask you a favor. I have an acquaintance called Mr. Pokémon. He keeps finding weird things and raving about his discoveries. Anyway, I just got an email from him saying that this time it’s real. It’s probably another Pokémon egg, but we’re still so busy with our Pokémon research…you can go in our place, right? Can we count on you?” The girl with long black hair tied back nodded.

“Yes, Professor Elm.”

“You can choose one of the Pokémon over there.” Chrysta walked over to a circular rotating table. However, they’re only two Pokémon present. “I-I must apologize. The fire type Pokémon Cyndaquil is missing. It got stolen by a horrible person.” Chrysta’s smile disappeared.

“I see. What a misfortune.” Chrysta took a close look at the remaining Pokémon. Inside was a green Pokémon with a leaf on top of his head in one ball and the other is a small blue crocodile. She quietly observed them before she gently picked up the pokeball with the green Pokémon within it.

“So, you like Chikorita, the Grass-type Pokémon?”

“Yes.” Chrysta took the pokeball and opened it to unleash the small green quadruped. The Chikorita let out a joyful yelp. She bent down and gently petted him.

“How do you like your Pokémon?”

“This Chikorita is wonderful.” Chrysta stood up. “Mr.Pokemon goes everywhere and finds rarities but I think he is home right now. His house is past Cherrygrove City. Go north a little past it. I’m counting on you, Chrysta!” The girl bowed politely as she noticed the Chikorita nibbled on her light blue pants leg. She smiled as she lightly tugged the pants leg away. “Wait one second! I almost completely forgot about this…here, I’ll give you my number.” Chrysta nodded as she dug through her silver coat pocket and took out a small blue device and opened it up. She inputted the number into her bottom screen touch screen.

“Thank you. I shall be on my way then.”

“I’ll call if anything comes up.” Chrysta walked outside, her Chikorita followed. She looked over at him and began to ponder something. “I guess you’re going to need a name.” She took a moment to ponder as she stared at the grass Pokémon. “I think Hera would be a good name don’t you think?” Chrysta waited for the Chikorita to ponder before it gave a nod of approval.

The journey was not long. The woods weren’t too dense. Almost anyone could’ve navigated the way to Mr.Pokemon’s house, a brown walled house with a black tile roof. If it wasn’t in the middle of the woods next to a tree bearing strange pink fruit, then it would look very typical in a town.

“Hello?” Chrysta asked as she knocked on the door. The door was opened seconds after the knock. Before her was a finely dressed, brown hated old man.

“Hello, hello! You must be Chrysta.” She bowed politely at the greeting. “Professor Elm told me about you and how you are coming to get what I wanted Professor Elm to examine.” The man led Chrysta and Hera inside the house. There she saw a white lab coated old man that waved hello to Chrysta. She looked over at the desk to see a cylindrical case. Within the case is a white egg with red and blue triangles decorated on the shells. Mr.Pokemon stood by the desk and presented it to his guest. “A friend of mine from Ecruteak gave it to me. I bet you can’t find this kind of Egg in Johto. I think Professor Elm might be able to tell what this is.” The girl walked over to the case but noticed the other old man walked toward her.

“And with that…I’m Professor Oak, a Pokémon researcher.” Chrysta’s eyes widened. “So you’re Chrysta! I was visiting a friend Mr.Pokemon.” The girl began to bow politely but Oak raised his hand. “Now now, no need to be formal. I heard you were running an errand for Professor Elm, so I waited here.” He looked over at Hera. “Oh! What’s this? A rare Pokémon!” Oak took a moment to look at Hera then at Chrysta. “I think I understand why Professor Elm gave you that Pokémon. You treat your Pokémon with love and care, it seems…” Chrysta tilted her head as she watched Oak smiled. “You seem to have started your journey late.”

“Well…yeah. I didn’t have the opportunity until now. It must be odd to hear someone starting their journey at 16 years old right?” Professor Oak thought for a moment before he dug through his pocket. He presented Chrysta with a red device. She took it into her hands and opened it up by pressing the large blue button in the center to see the device open up to a two screen interface.

“This is the latest version of the Pokedex. It automatically records data on Pokémon you’ve seen. I’d like to have it. Go meet all kind of Pokémon.” Chrysta bowed politely.

“Thank you so much.” A ring tone can be heard. Oak took out his Pokegear from his pocket and opened it.

“But I’ve stayed too long. I have to get to Goldenrod for my usual radio show. Chrysta, I have a feeling that this is not the last time we’ll meet…let’s exchange numbers just to be on the safe side.” Chrysta nodded and traded their phone numbers.”

“Sorry to trouble you, having you go back and forth but please make sure to hand it to Professor Elm.” Chrysta bowed politely and then walked over to pick up the case.

“Here it is.” Chrysta presented the case to Professor Elm. The man adjusted his glasses as he gently picked up the case from Chrysta’s arms. He took a moment to observe the egg inside.

“This egg may be something I’ve never seen…still it’s just an egg. Mr.Pokemon is always fascinated by Pokémon eggs.” Chrysta let out a chuckle.

“He should pay a visit to Route 34 then.”

“Pardon?”

“The Pokémon Daycare is located there. The old couple there find plenty of unique types of eggs there.”

“I see. Well, since he gave it to us, we might as well find out what secret it holds. I’ll keep it for awhile to find out about the egg.” Professor Elm placed the egg on his desk and then bowed politely to Chrysta. “Thank you so much for helping us.”

“It’s not a problem. I’ll be glad to help again.” Chrysta bowed politely. “You have my number. I hope I can assist you again.” There was a light jingle coming from Chrysta’s pocket. “I’m afraid I’m going to have to get that. I’ll see you again.” She bowed politely as she walked out of the lab with Hera following her.

Chapter 6: All's Well

---

“You look like a mess.” Chrysta said bluntly as Meili weakly stumbled to the table with a breakfast of corn cereal. “Sooo…Zephyr. I noticed he isn’t here anymore.” Meili nodded. Chrysta sighed. “I told him there isn’t much we can do.” Chrysta could no longer ignore Meili’s expression. It was just tiredness that made her eat her cereal at a slow pace. “Do you want to go looking for him?” Meili looked up and slowly nodded.

“You don’t have to come with me…but I do want to say…” Chrysta raised a finger to her mouth.

“Don’t worry about it. We can give him a lecture when we find him. I’m not in any hurry to reach Azalea Town.” Chrysta scooped the egg case off of the table and stood up as Meili hastily finished her cereal with new energy. “And I know where to start looking.”

“Look, I’m just trying to do business here!” Chrysta and Meili once more spoke with the man who tried to sell them the ludicrously priced Slowpoke tail…however, Meili decided to make sure this conversation is enforced in their favor.

“Please just tell us where the tails are coming in from and which provider?”

“B-but that’s confidential!” Meili started to light wave her paper fan in contemplation. Hera started to wave its leaf in preparation. “I’m not going to get threatened by teena-…” Meili casually dropped a Pokeball with her free hand. Banafushigi let out a huge yawn as he came out. “Azalea Town! Slowpoke Well! Some guys in black who called themselves Team Rocket gave these to sell while I get a cut of the profits!”

“…what?”

…

“Ugh…” Zephyr weakly got up. His coat was heavy from being soaked by the water. He heard a weak squeak. He looked over to see that Churai clung to his coat hood. He looked back at the lake he emerged from. He shuddered and started to continue walking. He took out Churai’s pokeball to return him into it. “Shamoba.” He dropped the pokeball to send out the fighting bird. The Blazekin understood the situation and started to warm the area around them two with the flames that emerged from his wrists. “Thank you buddy.” Zephyr sat himself down and sighed. He let out a sneeze that transitioned to a giggle. “If I get sick, Meili’s going to be mad.”

The two looked deeper into the cave as they heard movement. Zephyr slowly started to stand up but Shamoba had to catch him from falling over on the cold dirt. He still reached for his pokeball. A light was shined on him.

“…Shamoba!” The Blazekin charged forward as a shadow lunged from the darkness toward the pair.

“Wait!” Shamoba stopped. The opposition did as well. Zephyr observed a green mantis like Pokémon. Both Pokémon were milliseconds away from striking each other. He walked forward to see who held the flash light. “Are you with them?”

“Who now?”

…

Meili and Chrysta were already on the other side of Union Cave. It wasn’t too long since they stuck to the main path. However, the other side…was not a warm welcome.

“What in the world…?” Meili gazed upon a group of black clothed and hatted people who seemed to be organized around a large well. Some of them carried out pink tails with white tips. Some would go into the well. Meili looked over at Chrysta to see how she took it.

“How could they…?” She didn’t seem to take it well. Meili also took notice that it seemed like the uniforms were familiar to her in some way. She took a second look at the black garb and noticed a very distinguishable red R emblazed on their chests. “Meili, we have to get to Azalea Town. I’ll explain everything then.” The two started to run over to the nearby town…

…but that wasn’t much better. There are numerous black uniformed people that wandered about. The few people about seemed nervous or in a rush to their homes or business to avoid encountering the uniformed individuals.

“You two.” Meili and Chrysta looked over at a black uniformed man approach them. “We’re looking for Slowpoke have you seen any?” Meili’s expression became hostile but before she could reach for her Pokeball…but Chrysta answered calmly before she could make a move.

“We haven’t. We just arrived.” The man stared at them and then adjusted his hat and went on his way. Chrysta looked over at the man and started to walk off. Meili quickly followed. She placed a hand on Chrysta’s shoulder.

“Hey.”

“Meili, we can’t do anything reckless. They outnumber us. I know they make you mad but you can’t always act on it.” Meili grumbled.

“I don’t always act on it….”

“Anyhow…we need to get away from here for a little while…”

…

A loud sneeze echoed inside the house. Zephyr was now being given some juice and a blanket around his shoulder. The purple haired boy scratched the back of his head, not sure what to make of this. He looked over to his Scyther but the green mantis Pokémon didn’t have much to comment on. His view shifted over at a grumpy old man by the entrance and a little girl beside the old man.

“Thanks. You’re all really nice people.” Zephyr chugged the whole cup’s contents and wiped his mouth with his arm. “D-lish!” He scanned the people inside the room. “I’m Zephyr by the way!”

“I’m Bugsy. This is Kurt and his Granddaughter Maizie.”

“I can introduce myself, young man.”

“Grandpa, I know you’re mad but don’t be mean.”

“Young man?” Zephyr looked over at Bugsy while the boy has a palm upon his face.

“A-anyhow, he is the famed Pokeball maker of Johto!” Zephyr’s interest was peaked.

“Really? But I can buy them from the store can’t I?” Kurt started to approach the boy and glare down at him.

“My Pokeballs aren’t the same as those mass produced ones. These are special. Made from the shells of Apricorns.”

“I love apricots!”

“Apricorns!” Maizie and Bugsy sighed in sympathy as Zephyr awakened the old man’s rage. “They’re hard fruit that is found all over the Johto region. We can utilize the insides of these fruits as juice.”

“So it is like apricots!”

“Do they not teach you manners where you are from?!”

“Sorry.”

“Anyhow, the shells of the fruit can be heated, hardened, and then fashioned into the shells of Pokeballs. The insides of these shells create a very unique capture net that has a variety of effects.” Kurt dug through the bag attached to his sash and presented Zephyr with a white hardshelled fruit. “This White Apricon can be used to make a Fast Ball, a Pokeball that works better the faster the Pokémon.”

“Cool! Can you make me one?”

“Su-wait, now isn’t the time!” Everyone flinched at Kurt’s sudden increased anger. Maizie walked up and patted her grandpa on the back for a moment. The old man seemed to realize he lost his temper and then calmed down. “Boy, do you know who those people outside are?”

“…? I haven’t seen town. I actually kinda got drowzee while Bugsy carried me here so I wasn’t paying attention.” Bugsy could not believe how easy going this boy was. Was his brain as messy as his hair?

“Don’t worry, I’ll tell you anyhow.” Kurt began. Maizie sat down on a nearby seat cushion and Bugsy made himself comfortable. “Team Rocket, that’s what they call themselves. They’re an evil gang that uses Pokémon for their dirty work. They’re supposed to have disbanded three years ago in Kanto. They have taken up most of the town and been hassling civilians.” Zephyr’s smile disappeared.

“I see.” The boy was in thought. He slowly started to get up and stretch himself, the blanket on his shoulders collapsed on to the floor. Bugsy shot up from the floor and walked over to Zephyr’s side. “What’s the matter?”

“Tell me, how much did you sleep?”

“Oh, four hours and occasional naps in Union cave are enough.” Bugsy wanted to object but the boy’s smile returned as he projected a rather annoying amount of positivity again.

“Besides, what do you plan on doing?”

“I’m going to beat them up!” Bugsy and Maizie’s palms slapped their faces but for once Kurt seemed to be happy with the boy. “It’s not like they’re hiding or anything. I’m sure with a bit of rest in between every few battles; we’ll clear them all out soon enough!” Zephyr began to head out but…

“Okay, I’m going to have to stop you right there.” Bugsy grabbed Zephyr on the shoulder. Maizie did the same to Zephyr’s pants leg. “It’s reckless! Not to mention you just recovered from pulling a near all-nighter in a cave!” Kurt ruffled his hair and frustration and turned to the door. “Mr. Kur-?!”

“While we’re wasting our time here, Team Rocket is harming the Slowpoke! I’m tired of sitting around waiting for solutions, I’m going to give them in lesson in pain!!” Bugsy covered his hand over Zephyr’s before he could even consider voicing an approval. “Hang on, Slowpokes! Old Kurt is on the way!!” Kurt bursted out of the house before Maizie or Bugsy could stop him. Maizie glared at Zephyr.

“You encouraged him!”

“Well, he isn’t very encouraging. Didn’t you hear that he called us slowpokes?” Bugsy thwacked Zephyr on the head.

“We need to go after Kurt and stop him.” Bugsy looked at Zephyr and Maizie. “You two stay here.”

“Why not me?” Bugsy and Maizie stared at Zephyr for a moment.

“You’re stupid.” Maizie said.

“That’s a mean thing to say to someone you just met.” Maizie stuck her tongue out at him in response. “Still, that doesn’t mean you can go alone Bugsy.” The boy arched an eyebrow.

“Who is going to watch Maizie?” Zephyr laughed and detached a Pokeball from his belt.

“That’s a simple answer.” He dropped the Pokeball. Shamoba emerged as the ball opened. “This Shamoba the Blazekin. He’ll protect you.” Zephyr and the Blazekin did a fist bump. “Let’s go Bugsy.” He ran out the door before any protest could be made.

As Zephyr ran out, he shuddered. There was a pair of familiar Pokémon, one with a giant flower on his back and one with a second set of jaws coming from the back of her head. Meili dusted her cloths as she is surrounded by unconscious Pokémon and Team Rocket members. Chrysta was not too far from her with both palms upon her face. Bugsy was amazed…but confused.

“I think we were safer in the house.” Zephyr said as he slowly started to move forward, however, Banafushigi nearly whipped a vine before he gazed upon a recognizable face. Meili glared at Zephyr. “Eh he he he…listen, I would explain but I need to find a cool old guy who makes Balls.” Bugsy placed a palm against his face. Meili let out an annoyed sigh.

“Wait, Zephyr, are you talking about Kurt?” Zephyr titled his head.

“Do you know him?” Chrsyta nodded.

“He is a famous figure here in Johto, of course I do.”

“We need to find him! He ran off on his own!” Bugsy’s words registered to Meili who started laughing nervously. “…what is it?”

“I…might’ve started attacking because I thought he was a civilian trying to run safety?” Chrysta sighed at Meili as she returned her Pokémon. “A-anyhow, we got to find him right?” Chrysta turned around and raised a finger.

“He was heading in the direction of the well, let’s head down there quickly.”

The well wasn’t too hard to find. It was rather large, enough for more than a few people to jump in at once, but that isn’t advisable seeing as how there was a ladder present. The four readied Pokeballs and climbed down quickly.

“Guys!” Zephyr spotted Kurt and an unconscious Team Rocket member. The old man noticed Zephyr and weakly waved hello before he winced in pain. “Hey hey, don’t push yourself.”

“Hey there…I took on the guard here, but I took a tumble down the well. I slammed down hard on my back, so I can’t move.” Kurt tried to stand up but winced at every attempt. “Rats! If I were fit, my Pokémon would’ve punished them…ahm it can’t be helped.” He patted Zephyr on the shoulder. “Zephyr, show them how gutsy you are in my place!” Zephyr gave Kurt a thumbs up.

“Don’t worry, that was the plan anyways right?” Chrysta sent out Hera. “Chrysta?”

“Someone needs to keep track of this guy when he wakes up. Plus, I can use Hera’s Aromatherapy attack to maybe lighten Mr.Kurt’s pain.” Chrysta bowed. “I’m sorry but this is little time for introductions so you’re going to have to trust me.” She looked over at the other three. “Please be careful.”

“Don’t worry.” Zephyr gave Chrysta another thumbs up. Bugsy’s expression did not scream confidence but he nodded at Chrysta anyways. “Let’s go!” Zephyr charged on forward.

“Zephyr wait!” Bugsy chased after him. Meili sighed and dashed after. As Zephyr ran, he heard a slither. He stopped himself as two purple snake like Pokémon struck from the darkness of the cave. Zephyr quickly turned around and reached for his Pokeball but he was too slow. The strike from the snake’s fangs will reach him.

“Scyther, Quick Attack!” Scyther sped out of Bugsy’s pokeball and intercepted the attacks and knocked away the Ekans. The boy took a deep breathe as he ruffled his purple hair in frustration. “You really need to learn to slow down!”

“What do you want? If you interrupt our work, don’t expect any mercy!” The group looked up to see five people. Two male, two females, all in standard black Team Rocket uniforms and caps, but the fifth person, who stood atop a large rock and clearly lead them, is different. Over his black uniform, are long white gloves and boots. Another unique feature that stood out is that his uniform is gold outlined. This man was clearly different from the rest of these grunts. “We’re not taking visitors during work hours. Buzz off.” A Beedrill rose from behind him as he adjusted his black cap over his blue hair. “I strongly urge you not to interfere with our business.”

The remaining two male Team Rocket members sent out their own Pokémon. A Zubat and a Rattata joined the two snakes. Zephyr let out a laugh as his eyes narrowed, his index finger moved over his pokeball.

“Five on three is kind of harsh isn’t it?”

“Look at the face of a guy who cares.”

“If you don’t mind, Meili, Bugsy, I’d like to handle this one. Koroene!” Zephyr stepped forward and threw his pokeball and bursted open to reveal the pale and purple cat. Meili sent out her Pokémon as well.

“Slippy!” The Quagsire let out a smile as he was sent out. The blue haired man sighed.

“It doesn’t matter where we go, there’s always someone that doesn’t agree with us…” He shook his head in disappointment. “Oh well, this will be done quickly.”

“Scyther, Slash!”

“Slippy, Water Gun!” However, the two Pokémon shuddered. “What the-?!” Meili then realized what was wrong. The two Ekans’ glare has somehow paralyzed them.

“Zubat, Supersonic!” To add to their problems, the Zubat began to generate a loud irritating noise. The tiny purple right then charged and slammed her fangs into Scyther. Zephyr turned around in worry.

“Guys!”

“I think you should focus on yourself first.” Zephyr and Koroene narrowly managed to dodge an attempted stab from the Beedrill. “You think you’re the only people who tried to pull the ‘hero’ stunt?” He laughed as he watched Beedrill repeatedly attempting to strike Zephyr or Delcatty with the stingers. “Do you honestly think you can mess with our plans?!” The Beedrill raised both stingers and was about to slam them upon Zephyr, much to Koroene’s panic.

“I’d like to think I can!!” Zephyr, much to the shock of everyone present, managed to catch Beedrill’s stingers. A smirk was on the boy’s face. “Only the tips of a Beedrill’s stingers are poisonous.” The two began to pull on each other, neither allowing each other to struggle free. “Koroene, Heal Bell!!” The cat hesitantly nodded before her tail stiffed. The sound of a bell echoed as her tail shook, a blue light emitted from the tip of the tail. Soon Scyther and Slip started to move more easily.

“Slippy, Surf!”

“Scyther, Detect!” Scyther’s leapt to the top of the cave as Slippy opened his mouth and a gigantic sphere of water started to form before him. Koroene slammed Beedrill away from Zephyr as he let go and the two jumped up to a heightened rock. Slippy sent a gigantic wave of water that submerged the two Ekans, Rattata, and the Team Rocket members. Zubat managed to escape but Scyther leapt from the ceiling and slam Zubat down into the torrents. The man hissed at his luck. He adjusted his cap as he glared at Zephyr.

“For kids to be this good…I didn’t see it coming. Beedrill!” The bee buzzed back in front of him. A smirk was on his face. “I guess you now have the right to know my name. Name’s Proton.” Meili glared at him.

“That’s nice, I don’t give n-.”

“I’m Zephyr.”

“Zephyr!” Proton laughed.

“Not a bright bulb are you? Oh well, no matter. Bring it on! I can handle all three of you!!”

“Koroene, Thunderbolt!”

“Slippy, Water Gun!”

“Scyther, Air Slash!” Koroene started to send a blast of electricity; Slippy sent a blast of water; Scyther buzzed his wings and sent a barely visible blade of wind from them. Proton smirked as Beedrill easily managed to dodge the onslaught of attacks.

“Beedrill, Poison Jab!” Proton’s Beedrill zipped through the air and aimed for Scyther. However, Koroene managed to intercept the attack and tackle the Beedrill on her side. Meili laughed.

“Take all three of us? That’s big talk coming from someone who is only targeting the only injured one of the group.” Proton hissed as he then readied another Pokeball.

“Golbat, Supersonic!” The Golbat opened its mouth wide. Scyther however charged through the air and slammed himself into the Golbat before any action could be taken.

“Injured doesn’t mean out!” Slippy let out another blast of water at the Beedrill but it kept dodging out of the way. Meili clicked her tongue but Zephyr got an idea.

“Can’t dodge if you can’t dodge!” Koroene began to spark electricity.

“That doesn’t even…” Proton’s eyes widened as he realized what Zephyr was trying to say.

“Koroene, use Shockwave!!” The cat sent a thinner bolt of electricity than before but no matter how much the Beedrill sped around, the bolt would follow. It was only a matter of time before it made impact, shocking the bee. Proton watched as both of his Pokémon collapsed on to the cave floor.

“Why are you here?” Bugsy asked. “Team Rocket was supposed to be broken up three years ago.” Proton laughed.

“Yes, we indeed broke up three years ago in Kanto…but we continued our activities underground!” Proton took out a third Pokeball. The darkness of the cave made it hard to see but the group could make out a large dragon fly like Pokémon. It buzzed its wings and started to kick up the dust. “Small obstacles like you won’t be a problem for our mission. I advise you be very afraid of what is to come!!” A storm of dust swept over the group.

“Air Slash!” Scyther sent another blade of air to separate the dust. The only thing that that was left was the various unconscious Pokémon. “They…left.” Zephyr looked around at all the Pokémon left behind. His hands balled into fists.

“Everyone!” Zephyr, Meili, and Bugsy turned to see Chrysta and Kurt.

“What happened to the Team Rocket member?” Kurt grunted at Bugsy’s question.

“He got away. Sped off the moment he awoke before we could do anything. Dove into the nearby water and swam somewhere.” Chrysta lamented. “You really should’ve told us how big this well is Kurt.” Kurt laughed sadly before he walked over some of the rocks that Team Rocket stood on. The rest followed to see numerous Slowpoke, most with their tails cut off, but all and all, they were safe.

“Thank you all so much!” Kurt beamed. Zephyr nodded and made a smile as wide as Kurt.

“No problem!”

Ch. 8: Familiarity

---

“Beyond Azelea City is the Ilex Forest.” Chrysta said. “We should try out best to get through the forest in the morning or early afternoon. The forest becomes very different at night.”

“Well, we got Zukuyoruno.”

“Yes, am owl from Route 29 is going to navigate a vast forest it has never been to until now perfectly.” Meili groaned at Zephy’s thumbs up. “What I’m trying to say is, we shouldn’t take our chances.”

“Got it. Thank you for guiding us all this way Chrysta.” Meili picked up her backpack. Chrysta shook her head and started to place away the map.

“No problem.”

“Um…where were you heading anyways?”

“I sadly must part ways once we make it to Goldenrod City. There is a path a little bit north from there that lets me go from Goldenrod City to NewBark Town.” Chrysta presented the egg case. “I think this one will hatch by the time we get there so maybe you’ll get a chance to see it.”

“Someone quick!” Someone ran through the Pokémon Center doors. “T-Team Rocket!!”

“One time wasn’t enough hu-?” Zephyr blinked as he watched to see a few Team Rocket members on the ground, their Pokémon knocked out. He right away raised an arm to signal Meili and Chrysta to stay back. Before him, were a Quilava and a Rhyhorn.

“Tch, I hate the weak.” Silver said as he dusted his shirt. “Pokémon, Trainers. It doesn’t matter who or what. I hate to see them hanging around.” He stomped on the back of a Team Rocket member trying to crawl away. “That goes for you all too. You think they are big and tough as long as they are in a group. Get them alone, and they’re weak.” He snickered. “Then again…” He lifted his foot off and kicked the grunt. “…even in a group you aren’t good enough for me.”

“Hey!” Silver looked over to the newcomers. He didn’t care for the one he didn’t recognize. He was too busy giving out a laugh. Zephyr already had a Pokeball prepared.

“You stay out of my way. You won’t be an exception if you get in my way.” He called back his Rhyhorn. One of the grunts tried to get up.

“T-the ones who took out Proton!” Silver took note of the word. He started to laugh more.

“You beat them? Really now?” Quilava started to shoot flames back in preparation to battle. “Let’s see how good you are.”

“Yagoroun, Rock Throw!”

“Predictable! Smoke Screen!” Right when Zephyr sent out his Geodude, the rock creature had a rock ready to throw; Quilava blew smoke from his mouth to cover the battle field.

“…is this alright?” Chrysta asked. Meili sighed.

“You can already tell he is a beacon of goodwill. Come on, we gotta make sure no one gets caught in it.” As Meili and Chrysta went to drag the unconscious Pokémon and the barely conscious Team Rocket members out of the way, Yagoroun created another rock, ready to throw.

“Hmm…” Zephyr’s eyes narrowed. His Geodude flinched, much to her trainer’s surprise. “Yagoroun?”

“Brick Break!” A pink bull dog like Pokémon rushed out of the smoke and crashed into Yagoroun. Zephyr arched an eyebrow before he took out his Pokedex.

Snubbull

Type: Normal

Classification: Fairy Pokémon

Ability: Intimidate or Run Away

Height: 2’0’’

Weight: 17.2 lbs

Description: This Pokémon’s scary face causes smaller Pokémon to flee. Despite their looks, they tend to have an active, playful nature. Some are even kind and affectionate.

Zephyr looked up from his Pokedex. He wasn’t exactly feeling the affection from this thing. He doubted Yagoroun is as well, especially with her attack power lowered from Snubbull’s appearance. He quickly returned Yagoroun.

“Koroene!”

“Brick Break!” Unlike Yagoorun, the moment the Delcatty was sent out; she motioned away from the Snubbull’s attack with grace.

“Thunder Wave!” The Snubbull was numbed by light electric shocks that Koroene sent out of her body. The bulldog like Pokémon struggled to move. Silver sighed in disappointment. He called back his Snubbull and sent out Quilava.

“Flame Wheel.” Quilava spun his body to cloak it in flames.

“Ice Beam.” Koroene opened her mouth and fired a line of cold air. Silver’s eyes narrowed.

“Are you mocking me?” As the beam hit the flaming body of Quilava, vapor started to consume the arena. “Quilava-!”

“Feint attack!” Koroene dashed through the vapor and slammed into Quilava. The weasel skidded to a stop before he pushed forward to be on all fours again. Zephyr and Silver glared at each other for a moment. They waited for one of them to make the first move. Koroene and Quilava prepared to pounce. “Water Pulse!”

“Rock Smash!”

“Aerial Ace! Megahorn!” The sphere of water created by Koroene was sliced in half and exploded in her face and before Quilava could charge, he was stopped by a large horn. Both participants of the battle blinked in surprise. A blue beetle and a green mantis stopped the battle, the latter was very familiar to Zephyr. “You two are disturbing the townspeople and the Slowpoke, take it somewhere else!” Bugsy walked into the scene, arms crossed and not amused. He in particular looked at Zephyr. “I swear trouble follows you.”

“Sorry.” He laughed nervously and called back Koroene. Silver sighed as he called back Quilava. He took out a Pokeball. “Hm?”

“You seriously can’t think about continuing.”

“I’m not continuing.” Silver said. He opened the Pokeball, his paralyzed Snubbull was sent out. He then dropped the pokeball and stepped on it, cracking the ball. He started to walk away, not even paying attention to Snubbull.

“H-hey! What are you doing?!”

“Releasing it. That should be obvious.”

“What for?!”

“Do you need your ears checked? I have no need for the weak. Besides, there is a Pokémon Center right over there. If anything, this is charity for both of us.”

“Yo-!” Before Zephyr could charge, Bugsy’s Scyther raised an arm to stop him. “Bugsy!”

“I don’t like the way he thinks either but don’t go looking for more trouble!” Zephyr glared at Bugsy and took a deep breathe before he stepped back. Silver already walked for away from the scene. He took a deep breathe as Meili slowly walked over and cradled the Snubbull in her arms.

The Snubbull was healed in a matter of minutes. The girls bowed to the nurse politely while Zephyr stared blankly out the window. Chrysta took out a Pokeball and placed it in front of Snubbull. The pink bulldog stared at it and then at the girl. She smiled waiting for her decision. The ball was opened, the dog was contained. Chrysta collected the ball and placed it on her belt.

“Zephyr, let’s get going. We’ve been delayed enough as it is.” He turned over to look at Chrysta and nodded slowly.

They walked through the dense forest in silence. The massive trees made it hard to navigate. One can only imagine what it must be like to traverse these dark woods at night. The three was close together as they walked through.

“Hera.” Chrysta opened her Pokeball and the Chikorita hopped on out. The light green Pokémon waved her leaf and then sliced a shrub that was in their way. Chrysta bent down to pet Hera for a job well done.

“Hey? What’s that?” Chrysta looked up to where Meili pointed. A small red roofed shrine that is lit by the sunlight that managed to pass through. She stared at the shrine for a brief moment before she walked forward.

“That would be the Ilex Forest Shrine.” Chrysta closed her eyes and lowered her head in prayer. Zephyr and Meili clapped their hands and did the same. “They say praying to the shrine in your visit to the forest brings good luck.” She raised her head and looked up. “They said it was built in tribute to a Pokémon.”

“What Pokémon?” Zephyr raised his head.

“Celebi.” Zephyr dug through his pocket and took out his pokedex. The screen would only show a rough sketch of Celebi. No data. “You won’t be finding data on it any time soon. It is a legendary Pokémon, said to be the protector of the forest. Most people consider themselves lucky to find it twice in their lifetimes. You’re honestly better off talking to locals who live near the forest about it.”

“Um…are we allowed to take a picture of it?” Chrysta shrugged.

“I don’t see why not.” Meili nodded and took out a camera. Zephyr continued to stare at it with some curiosity.

“Ever…get people trying to catch Celebi?” Chrysta looked over at Zephyr with an arched eyebrow.

“That usually never occurs to people…though even if it did, people wouldn’t find it acceptable at all.” She chuckled as she cradled the egg case in her arms. “Have you seen people when you challenge what they believe in?” Zephyr tilted his head. “Think about it. What would happen if the forest lost its guardian?”

“Bad things?”

“Good, you graduated primary.” Chrysta chuckled as Zephyr smiled. “But it’s more than that. People would attack those that threaten their guardian.” Meili turned around after she finished taking a few pictures. This time she was confused.

“Isn’t Celebi supposed to be protecting the people and the forest?”

“Correct, Zephyr. See, when people believe in something, they’ll defend it, more often than not, extremely.”

“But…isn’t it the job of the guardian protect the people? Why would the people need to protect the guardian?”

“To earn its favor, its blessing. Don’t you see? They appease the guardian so that it blesses only them. No one else.”

“But a guardian protects everyone in its area right?” Chrysta stared at Zephyr and then shook her head.

“Forget what I said, I think it’s a bit hard for you to understand for your age.”

“You can’t be that much older than us.” Chrysta chuckled.

“True enough. Come on, we stood in front of the shrine long enough.” Zephyr and Meili looked at each other for a moment. They shrugged when they realized they weren’t going to get an answer from each other.

“Kimono girl, kimono girl, lost and all alone.” Zephyr and Meili shrieked and hugged each other. A frightened yelp was made in response. Chrysta just sighed and tried her best not to laugh as she pointed over between the crack of the trees is a girl in a familiar decorative kimono.

“W-wait…aren’t you that lady from Violet City?” The girl tilted her head at them.

“You must be imagining.” She chuckled. “Anyhow, will you show me how to get out of the forest?” Chrysta nodded. Hera hopped forward and waved his leaf. “Are you going to show me how to get out?” Hera enthusiastically nodded. “You are such a smart Pokémon.” The Chikorita smiled bashfully as the kimono cladded girl looked to Chrysta for permission to give her a pet of praise.

The late afternoon sunlight hit the group as they exited the forest, the kimono girl waved good bye to them with a quick ‘See you’ as a goodbye. Meili stretched and let out a sigh of relief. It wasn’t going to be a repeat of Route 29.  The road from here on forward was a simple one. It was a dirt road alongside a river that led to the vibrant city in the distance.

“From here on forward, is Goldenrod City. It’s the largest city in Johto. From there you can take an East route back to Violet City.  Beyond the city north is Ecruteak City but I believe your focus is on the gym here yes?” Zephyr nodded. “I’ll describe the city when we get there.” The group begins to walk together. Meili looked over at Chrysta and walked up to Chrysta and kept pace with her.

“Hey, Chrysta?”

“Yes?”

“…do you have a problem with ruins and shrines?” Chrysta looked over with confusion. “You didn’t look so well when you were talking about Ho-oh…same with Celebi.” Chrysta did not turn to face Meili.

“…they’re just teachings instilled to me when I was young.” Zephyr paused as he took in the words.

In the safety of a Pokémon Center room, Zephyr lied on the bed as Meili started to undo her hairbun. She waved to the Pokémon inside the Pokeballs scattered on the tables. She looked over at Zephyr. Usually he’d be fast asleep but he stared blankly at the ceiling instead.

“Zephyr?” Meili poked his cheek. The boy didn’t react. She took out her paper fan and poked Zephyr with it but no reaction. She sighed and started to exit the room for the moment. Zephyr still stared at the ceiling.

…

“Elekid, Mud Slap!”

“Pichu, Double Team.” The small electric mouse created two duplicate images as he ran toward the plug like Pokémon. The Elekid dug his fist into the dirt and then threw a batch at the Pichu. However, the slab of mud only hit an image. “Body Slam.” The Pichu slammed his entire body into Elekid, the remaining false image faded away. The Elekid collapsed unconscious from the strike.

“Fuuko loses.” A stern old man said. The little girl winced as she called back her Elekid. Kazemaru said nothing to his Pichu as he raised his pokeball to return him. “Next Kazemaru battles Sho, one Pokémon each. We’ll take a five minute break afterwards.” Sho tied back his hair. His opponent took a moment to scratch an itch in his bed of messy hair.

“Let’s begin.” Sho readied a Pokeball and sent out a Charmander. Kazemaru looked at it and took out a Pokeball and sent out a Bulbasaur. “…hm?” Sho arched any eyebrow and then sighed. He didn’t care. If he wanted to lose that was his business. “Charmander, Fire Spin.” Kazemaru’s eyes narrowed.

“Concentrate heat to the tail.” He observed to himself as Charmander’s tail flame intensified. “Swing.” Charmander readied to swing his tail. “Then…Bulbasaur, to the left.” The moment Charmander finished the swing, the frog like Pokémon managed to move out of the way. Sho arched an eyebrow.

“Dragon Rage.”

“Harder to dodge. Inhale for air.” Kazemaru observed. Right as Charmander held the air for a second. “Bulbasaur, Bullet Seed.” The bulb was aimed at the lizard and fired a few seeds into the stomach of the Charmander, causing him to fire the blast of air into the ground before Bulbsaur. Sho arched an eyebrow.

“Is he reading Charmander’s moves? Tch, Flamethrower.”

“Bulbasaur, Sleep Powder.” This time he reacted before the attack could be prepared. Bulbasaur shot a seed out of his bulb which exploded into a blue powder that Charmander inhaled as he breathed in.

“Ember.” Charmander managed to spit out a quick bullet of flame that blasted Bulbasaur before he fell unconscious. Kazemaru looked at the Bulbasaur collapse unconscious. The old man’s eyes narrowed at the two Pokémon. On one hand, Bulbasaur took a direct hit from an Ember attack and is unconscious. Charmander is asleep but still has stamina. Should this have been a multiple Pokémon battle, this would leave Charmander vulnerable to Kazemaru’s next Pokémon. “Sho wins…however, after your breaks I desire to see your skill again.” The oldman looked to Kazemaru. The boy nodded.

“Yes Grandpa.” Kazemaru returned his Bulbasaur without a word. Sho stood in silence with only his Charmander being his focus.

…

Sho slowly awoke. He stood up and looked at the station clock. Ten minutes. That was five minutes too long.  A sigh escaped his lips as he stood up and took out a red hair tie and tied back his mid-back length hair, a perfectly wrapped low pony tail. He double checked the Pokeballs attached to his belt before he dusted off his red colored coat.

Hands in his brown pants, he walked out the deserted station that was still a work in progress. At this point it was only good for a tourist attraction of what ‘could be’. What a waste.

“Hey mister!” Sho stopped as an elementary aged girl approached him as he exited. She presented a gift box. “Wanna to exchange mystery gifts?” He sighed tiredly.

“I have nothing to give. If you don’t mind….” Sho walked out without any further word.  He had no further time to give.

Goldenrod City was not exactly a city that slept. There was always movement in the city. For every one person that sleeps, two are awake.  Sho desired something that was quieter than the active surface of the street.

The Goldenrod Underground had many shopping services; however, it wasn’t as active as the people above. Gangs of battle-hungry trainers would be a big factor as to what is preventing better business for those who set up shop down there. Still, Sho guessed that they must get some income considering they haven’t moved upwards.

“You look like you’re new in town.” Sho looked over. A lean man walked up to him, beside him was a pink creature with a long tongue. “Looks like you don’t have an understand of what a ‘turf’ is.” Sho blinked and moved his hand to the pokeballs attached to his belt.

Zephyr rubbed his face. He couldn’t sleep. Koroene walked along side him, leading him along. A yawn escaped him as he walked. Despite the bright city, Zephyr still felt tired. Not enough to be resting at the bed back at the Center but he didn’t feel energetic at all.

“Found a place to eat?” Koroene pointed to a nearby trash can. He laughed as he petted the cat. “Come on, you know we can’t eat from there.” Koroene poked him with the tail. “…oh…well…I’m not going to.” The cat laughed. “Come on; let’s look around some more and head on back.”

“And, we’re lost.” Zephyr and Koroene looked around. “Hmm…” He turned over to a nearby sign. “Underground Tunnel, Please Be Careful, Don’t ride your bike.” He arched an eyebrow. “Underground…” He pondered and then had a realization. “We can go through the tunnels and then go up through the Pokémon Center’s basement!” Koroene stared at her trainer before she gently rubbed her face against the wall. “Koro?” The cat sighed before she walked over to follow her trainer. “Come on, let’s head on over.”

A Grimer slammed into the ground, steel covered tail on top of it. The tail’s owner held a Lickitung with her left hand. She slammed the pink lizard on the ground. Sho glanced down at the trembling trainers. He let out a sigh.

“Everyone is such a disappointment…” The Aggron threw the Lickitung over at the new comer. “Everyone.” The large armored biped lunged forward, her horns blocked by a green forcefield produced by a Delcatty. Zephyr gently placed down the unconscious Lickitung.

“You haven’t changed.” Not a jovial tone is heard. Zephyr’s eyes slanted as he got up and walked forward.

“It’s been awhile, Kazemaru.”

“My name is Zephyr.”

“I don’t have to go with whatever delusions you have.” Aggron leapt back. Koroene hissed. “…why did you leave?” Zephyr’s expression didn’t change as he retached for the Pokeballs attached to his belt and readied himself to move.

“I don’t have to go with whatever delusions you have.” Sho clicked his tongue.

“Immature. Aggron.” A swing of the tail required Zephyr to leap back and Koroene to jump up ward.

“Water Pulse!” A pointblank spherical blast of water hit the back of Aggron’s head, causing her to collapse face first, Koroene leapt off the back of the Aggron and landed on to one of the nearby shop stands.

“To purposely attack Aggron’s armor to deal damage in the heat of the moment rather than waste time looking for a weakness. Once more, you are the embodiment of wasted talent.” Aggron started to get up but shuddered. Sho’s eyes widened and his view darted back to Koroene, who sparked with electricity. “…Thunder Wave as well.”

“Water Pulse again!” In a flash of light from a Pokeball, Aggron was gone and in her place was a Poliwhirl, absorbing the sphere into his own body. “Tch…” Zephyr eyed the pokeball in Sho’s hand. “Shock Wave!” Poliwhirl was replaced with a Gligar who took the electricity with no damage to herself. “Ice Beam!” Once more, Sho returned Gligar, while Poliwhirl couldn’t absorb the ice, the bipedal tadpole managed to block the beam of cold air with his glove like hands.

“You are severely underestimating my reaction time…” Sho and Zephyr both readied their next Pokeballs. Their reached their other hand called back their Pokémon…and in that moment both boy’s throwing arms were grabbed and both boys were pushed onto the ground. “Wh-?!” Zephyr looked up, men in dark blue uniforms, the local police. An officer was tending to the two other trainers. Zephyr took in the fact that people are starting to gather. All of whom having worrying expressions.

“You two, it’s late at night and you’re starting to disturb the rest of the people by battling here. I would hope you two would battle Pokémon more responsibly and in an arena.” The two boys gritted their teeth but simultaneously sighed as they realized resistance wasn’t an option especially with the men reaching for their Pokeballs should they express their complaints in a violent manner.  They’ll have to push back the results of this match another time…

This is an interesting one, in a way; I don't think I've seen a straight novelisation of one of the games in quite some time. Given that the route the characters take through the region and much of the plot is already known to the reader, stories like that tend to be carried by the strength of the characters, and I feel like that's an area in which this story is relatively strong: sure, Zephyr is the kind of easy-going, accidentally-skilful hero that we've seen a bunch of times, but I think you pull it off very well. His success never quite feels like a done deal, even if he does have what should on paper be quite a tough and experienced team; after that initial loss against Jasmine – which I think was a great idea – you're always aware that he's not really as good a trainer as he might be, and that he's desperately in need of a certain amount of guidance. Wallace, his mother, Meili, Elm; he needs all the assistance he's offered – and the teasing, too, from his sister, and from Meili and Chrysta. He makes mistakes, he gets himself in unnecessary trouble; he feels like exactly the sort of person who needs to get out there on a journey and grow a little as a person.

Another aspect of storytelling that novelisation fics lean on quite heavily is their worlds, and yours is pleasantly pokémony – like, there are pokémon everywhere, and they're enmeshed in the fabric of people's lives, both as transport and companions (as seems to be the case in Hoenn) and as part of culture and folklore (as has always been the case in Johto, and as you represent very nicely). That's a good thing, especially for fics that focus quite heavily on interpersonal relationships between original characters and so can sometimes feel like they didn't actually need to be fanfic after all.

The bulk of my critique is mainly cosmetic, actually. For instance, the story is written mainly in the past tense, but you pretty frequently slip into the present tense, which is jarring and ungrammatical; there are also many instances where words (often conjunctions) or punctuation seem to be missing, or when you use words in a strange way. Here's an instance I picked at random from the latest chapter, for example:
“[D]espite journeying with him for a long time, known him longer” seems incomplete; maybe “and knowing” rather than just “known”? The following sentence seems odd, too – I know what you mean by “leaving someone's history as their privacy”, but it doesn't quite make sense; you can't really use “privacy” in that way. Or another example – you quite often use the word “don” to mean “wearing”, where what it actually means is “to put on”, so that it can't be used to just describe what someone already has on.

On a more minor note, there are a few pokémon names you've misspelled, too – it's “blaziken” rather than “blazekin”, “rattata” rather than “ratatta”, and “kakuna” rather than “kukuna”. I also think it might be helpful to separate out different sections of narrative by adding an extra blank line in between them, rather than letting them all run together as you do – which can be kind of confusing.

Other than these general and formatting issues, I also noted just a couple of inconsistencies – in chapter five, the protagonists don't have a map, but at the start of chapter two Meili said she downloaded the Johto map while on the boat; and at the start of chapter seven, Kurt accidentally refers to apricorns as apricots, after previously getting annoyed at Zephyr for making the same mistake.

Which brings me onto something else I wanted to comment on, actually – I really like the ways in which NPCs keep bumping into reality; jokes about the Guide Gent being a weirdo or that one New Bark cop being overzealous and not very competent aren't new, of course, but the apricorn/apricot confusion from talking to Whitney in the Radio Tower is a nice touch, and I like that quite a lot.

Ultimately, I think this is a really interesting story, it's just that it could use some polish to clear up some of the superficial errors – more proofreading, maybe, or if proofing's not your strong suit, perhaps it might be helpful to look for a beta reader? But yeah, there's a lot to like here. I'll definitely keep an eye on this and see where it goes!

Chapter 10: Let's Pokéathlon! 

---

“Cheese!” The three called out as Meili took a picture. The three turned behind to the orange road that lead to the giant blue dome like stadium. People all around have their Pokémon out; some of them seem to be warming up for whatever is inside.

“The Pokeathalon Dome was a recent construction.” Chrysta began to explain. “It’s a sports festival with events held daily to honor a legend.” Zephyr and Meili looked to Chrysta. “A long time ago, an illness plagued the land. No help seemed to be in sight. They could only delay what seemed to be the inevitable. One person did not give up. They gathered three Pokémon and traversed the land with haste, overcoming intense physical trial alongside their Pokémon and climbed to the top of a freezing mountain. Their weariness and strain was rewarded by a mysterious Pokémon that cured the entire land of their blight.”

“Huh.” Zephyr pondered.

“Academic sources aren’t sure if the legend is true or not but regardless, enough people and Pokémon admired such a tale.” Chrysta cradled the egg case. “I guess you two will want to try it out?” Both Zephyr and Meili nodded enthusiastically. “Alright, I’ll be in the stands.”

“Huh? You’re not gonna try?”

“You need three Pokémon to enter a Pokeathalon competition. I only have Hera and Snubull.” Chrysta looked to the egg. “And I certainly won’t let a new born participate.”

“Welcome to Pokeathalon then!” Zephyr and Meili turned around to see a slim girl of medium height. Her outstanding teal-blue hair were tied in low bunches behind her ears and spiked out to the point where Zephyr was almost convinced they were antennae of some sort. She wore a red short-sleeve shirt and yellow and black outlined shorts. “Names Crystal.” Behind her were the growls of three particular Pokémon. A Cyndaquil, Totodile, and Chikorita.

“Nice to meet you!” Meili said. “Can I get a picture of these three?” Zephyr tilted his head. “We visited Professor Elm but we never got to see all three of them.” Zephyr bent down and glanced at Crystal’s permission to pet them. After a nod of approval he gently stroked their heads. “Are you an athlete here? We’re hoping to at least give it a try.” Crystal nodded.

“Yeah, reception is right at the front. Which course are you going to enter?”

“…huh?”

…

The group was inside a very blue room. It was decently populated with either audience or participants but not chokingly so. Crystal led them to the front desk, a lady behind the counter waved hello. Crystal motioned to a large board that displayed data as well as footage of current competitions.

“They’re five courses you can win medals for: Speed, Power, Skill, Stamina, and Jump. In each category they’re three events. You are judged at the end of each event and whoever has the total amount of points win. It’s that simple!”

“Okaayyy…” Zephyr nodded and pondered. “What contest do I want to enter…” He scratched the side is head. His eyes wandered over to the screen. He noticed the athletes close to their Pokémon. “Is it common for people to be with their Pokémon as they run?” Crystal nodded.

“Like Pokémon battles, this is just another way we bond with each other.” Crystal gathered up her three Pokémon in embrace. Meili could only laugh nervous as she tugged at her skirt.

“Are you here for the Pokeathlon? Me, too!” Meili nearly screamed and Zephyr shuddered as they looked behind them. Whitney waved hello.

“…are…you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m over the loss.” Not what I meant Meili thought. “It have been so excited. It is so close to Goldenrod, you know?” And who is running the gym right now. Whitney’s eyes scanned Meili’s outfit then Zephyr’s. “Huh? W-were you going to participate in the Pokeathlon looking like that?”

“…maybe?” Whitney shook her head.

“You’re not prepared at all, are you? So…are you a medium or a small?”

“Excuse me?”

“You look more like a medium…ok! I have a jersey that suits you!”

“Excuse me?!”

“You want to look your best if you’re going to participate in the Pokeathlon, don’t you? Wait right here!” Despite the statement Whitney began to drag Meili. Crystal stared and Zephyr tilted his head in confusion. After a quick trip to the locker room, Meili found herself in a red jersey with matching colored jersey pants.

“I…actually don’t mind this but can you please slow do-…”

“You look perfect! Now that you are ready, let’s enter a competition!”


“Well…which one?” Crystal’s question finally slowed Whitney down enough to ponder. “Let’s try Skill.” The other three people present aside from the receptionist. “Welp, let’s choose three Pokémon. You three already saw mine.” She returned her Pokémon into her Pokeballs. The other three started to look at their pokeballs.

“Welcome to the Pokeathlon!!” yelled a black hair announcer in a white tank top and exercise pants. “Today’s event—the Skill Course!!” The crowd roared. “Who will shine brightest today? Let’s meet the competitors! Those points and these points—let’s go get’em!” Chrysta settled in to a seat in the backrow. Much quieter, at least a little bit. “Team Zephyr! With his Pikachu, Geodude, and a strange Pokémon from Hoenn, Blazikin!!” Zephyr waved to the crowd with Churai, Yagoroun, and Shamoba behind him. “Team Meili! With a Quagsire, a Venasaur, and is that a mouth on the back of that Pokémon’s head? Mawile!!” Smiley and Meili looked back at the judge with annoyed look with Slippy and Banafushigi a step back to avoid trouble. “Our local Gym Leader, Team Whitney!! Wither her classic trio of Miltank and two Clefairy!” Whitney waved to the crowd. Some massive cheers but Chrysta was pretty sure she heard a faint boo from where she was sitting. “And finally our frequent winner and star, Team Crystal with Totodile, Chikorita, and Cyndaquil!!” Crystal and her team bowed. “All right, we’re ready! Aim for the top! Let’s POKEATHLON!!” Chrysta lifted her hood over her head as the cheers intensified.

…

“The first game of the Skill Course is Snow Throw! You co-ordinate with your three Pokémon to throw snowballs at the other teams for points! For the next one minute you must hit as many opponents with snow balls as possible, each hit is one point!!”

“Let’s do it, guys!” Just as Churai, Yagoroun, and Shamoba raised their snowballs in time with Zephyr’s cheer, all four were all obliterated by a gigantic snowball from Whitney’s end. “I’m okay…” muffled Zephyr from within the snow.

“Ye-AAHHH!” Whitney yelled. “That’s for the gym battle!!” A whistle was blown.

“Penalty!”

“What?!”

“Whitney, even if you are the local Gym Leader, you can’t use your Miltank as a snowball.”

…

“The second game of the Skill Course is Goal Throw! Each team guards a goal while move a ball into a goal…the ball not your team mates!” Whintey laughed nervously as she helped her Clefairy prepare to launch Miltank like a ball. Zephyr likewise quickly told Shamoba to lower Churai and Yagoroun.

…

“The final game of the Skill Course is Pennant Capture! You send in one Pokémon at a time to collect as many flags as possible and return to base to switch out your Pokémon and keep your flags!” With the start whistle the Pokémon rushed out. Miltank, Banafushigi, and Churai did not seem to be having a good time. Crystal’s Cyndaquil was.

…

“The overall winner, with 380, Team Crystal!!” This was a tragic inevitability. Whitney got penalized, Zephyr and Meili had little idea what they were doing and in the case of the latter only Slippy could traverse the sandy terrain with any competence. Crystal could only laugh nervously at the other three teams. Chrysta’s palm on her face muffled her laughs.

“That could’ve gotten better…” Whitney and Zephyr said.

“Not exactly a picturesque moment.” Meili sighed. Crystal let out a nervous laugh.

“You three tried the best you all can do.” Meili, Zephyr, and Whitney’s expression sunk.

“I don’t think that came out as kind as you thought.” Chrysta commented.

“You’re free to all try again.”

“No, thank you.” Meili and Whitney said in unison. Zephyr pondered as he looked back at his three Pokémon.

“I think I’ll give it another shot!”

“I’ll be taking a walk around Goldenrod, there is a place I’d like to visit and I had enough of the crowd.” Chrysta bowed politely. “Thank you for showing them around.”

“No problem. This stadium always welcomes newbies.”

“We’ll pick you up for dinner, okay Zephyr?”

“Sure!”

“I better head back to the gym.” Whitney stretched. A question dawned upon Meili and Chrysta…did Whitney leave the gym to Cathy? A sigh from Meili.

“Cathy deserves higher pay.” Meili commented before she started to walk on back with Chrysta. “So where to?”

“There was a place I wanted to visit but when we exited the Ilex Forest, it was really late.” She presented the Pokémon egg. “See, there is a Pokémon Day Care around Goldenrod. I was hoping to ask them about this egg.” Meili nodded. That made a lot of sense. “I also hope to learn to care for the baby properly once it is born. I have been tasked for caring for the egg, the least I can do is do so properly.” Another nod of agreement.

Zephyr waved goodbye as the two left and turned to look at his Pokémon. He readied the rest of his Pokémon and sent out Zukuyoruno and Dosgyara. Crystal looked at his gathering of Pokémon and bent down to pet the Hoothoot.

“You raised these ones well.” Zephyr nodded.

“Thank you. All right guys, let’s jog!” Crystal opened her mouth but she didn’t want to damper his enthusiasm…even if the Gyarados that snaked after them caused the locals to panic or scream.

“Maybe too much enthusiasm is a bad thing…”

…

“Phew…” Zephyr sat on down. Crystal and her Pokémon offered seven containers. “Hm?”

“Aprijuice.” It took Zephyr a moment to process the name until he clapped.

“Oh, what Kurt mentioned!”

“You met Kurt?”

“Yeah, he told me the difference between Apricots and Apricorns!” There was a moment of silence. “…oh and I got one of his special Pokeballs.” He dug through his coat pocket and presented the green Friendball. “I still haven’t had the chance to use this on anything yet but that is for later.” He hoped on up. “Alright everyone, let’s get to moves!”

“…moves?” Zephyr walked up and bent down to Yagaoroun.

“Okay, so during the match with Whintey, she made Milty use Defense Curl and Rollout and I was wondering if-.”

“Zephyr?”

“-you can pull that off?” Yagoroun nodded. “Alright! Let’s practice that and maybe see what else we can te-.”

“Zephyr.” Crystal shook the boy.

“Huh?”

“You just need to train your Pokémon’s athletics, no need to teach the moves.”

“Oh…” Zephyr stared at Crystal for a moment. “…huh…” She tilted her head at his pause. “I’ll keep that in mind. Okay guys drink u-Dosgyara don’t try to eat the whole thing that’s not good for you…Zukuyoruno, it won’t open if you keep picking at the top, let me help you.”

…

Meili and Chrysta are south of Goldenrod, in front of a large old house. On the sign was simply Day-Care. To not trouble the eggholder, Meili stepped forward and gently knocked on the door. A purple clothed old woman walked up to the door.

“Oh welcome!” Chrysta bowed politely. “Would you like me to care for your Pokémon?”

“Actually we’d like to ask some questions about Pokémon Eggs.” Chrysta presented the egg case. The old woman nodded.

“Come on in, we have seats.” The three entered a neat lobby with a table and seats for guests, a counter for the old woman and next to it computer for people to access their Pokémon. To their left was a playpen with various Pokémon. “The egg you hold, it is quite rare in this region.”

Chrysta gently set the egg case on the table.

“What type of egg is it?”

“It is the egg of a Togepi.” Chrysta took out her Pokedex and searched for the name.

Togepi
Type: Normal
Classification: Spike Ball Pokémon
Ability: Serene Grace or Hustle
Height: 1’00’’
Weight: 3.3 lbs.
Info: The shell seems to be filled with joy. Because of this, numerous rumors have been formed around it, such as they will share this joy to those that treat them kindly or that happiness will come to anyone who can make a sleeping Togepi stand up.

“Huh…does after it hatch count?” Meili asked as she read over Chrysta’s shoulder. A crack began to form on the egg.

“…I think you’re about to find out.” Chrysta threw aside her Pokedex and quickly opened the top of the case to take out the egg. Everyone in the room was anxious. Another crack and then…

“Toge?” The top part of the egg finally burst. A light yellow head spikey head popped out to gaze upon Chrysta. After a long moment stubby arms and legs popped out…and nothing further. Meili arched an eyebrow.

“Huh…” Chrysta continued to stare at the Togepi as the little Pokemon waved her arms and legs.

“I’ll get you blankets and milk…” The day care lady began to walk behind the counter as Chrysta took in the birth of the infant. The Togepi started to reach for the one who held her.

“I think the Togepi wants a hug.” Chrysta continued to stare…until finally an embrace. The coat only made it warmer.

“I’ll name you Jubilee.” She cradled the Togepi.

“wWAAAAAAHHHH!!”

“H-huh?!”

“The baby was just born; let her cry to sleep…” The woman called from the backroom. Chrysta quickly turned around to Meili but she already had her hands in the ears. The caretaker is not getting help until the nanny returned.

…

“The overall winner in the Speed Course with 360 points is Team Zephyr!!” Zephyr jumped in the air with Churai, Shamoba, and Koroene. The medals were tied around his Pokémon as Zephyr was given one to clip to his jacket.

“Thank you.” Zephyr stepped off the podium with his Pokémon. He stared at the medal. “Just like…just like earning a badge I guess.” As he walked off to the side, Crystal waited for him. She lightly waved hello to him.

“Congratulations on your first medal. You did much better than last time.”

“Yeah…” Zephyr looked back at the medal. “Um…? Can I ask what getting your first medal was like?” Crystal pondered.

“Exciting!” Crystal exclaimed. “My trio and I practiced a long time before we managed to win our first Pokeathalon so to have our efforts finally payoff felt great.”

“Huh…”

“What about you?”

“Hm?”

“Any moments like that before today?” Zephyr opened his mouth and thought back to his first badge…

…

“Nosepass use Rock Throw!”

“Zerugatodo, roll to the sides back and forth!!” The Spheal nodded and rolled away from the rain of rocks. “Water Pulse!” The ball seal stopped rolling to launch a sphere of water the size of her own body. The sphere crashed into the large rock nosed Pokémon with a splash. The tension silenced the arena. The silence was finally broken by a collapse.

“Nosepass is unable to battle!” Zephyr and Zerugatodo both took a sigh of relief. The honor student gym leader dusted her blue uniform and walked toward her challenger. “The Pokémon League’s rule state that trainers are to be given this if they defeat a Gym Leader.” Roxanne presented a gold rectangle with two of its corners emphasized more than the others. She gently placed it in Zephyr’s hand.

“…huh.” Zephyr looked at the badge. This was worth fighting for?

“Is something the matter?”

“N-nothing…”

“Hey! Zephyr!! Let’s get a picture of you and Zeru!!” Zephyr looked over his shoulder to see Meili wave her camera about. “Roxanne, want to be a part of the picture?!” Roxanne’s eye twitched as Zephyr tried his best to contain his snicker. He picked up Zerugatodo with his free arm and ran on over. Well, if Meili has a reason to celebrate…

…

“Yeah.” Zephyr said. Crystal tilted her head at his need to take a moment to answer the question. “It felt great that my friends’ hard work paid off with every badge.” Before Crystal could dwell on the tone of Zephyr’s nervous voice, his pocket began to ring. He took out his Pokenav and opened it.

“Hey, Zephyr.” Zephyr tilted his head as Meili seemed to be trying her best to be quiet. “The egg hatched! We’re at a Daycare in Route 34.” Zephyr nodded and closed the phone.

“Sorry, looks like I’m running to them.” He returned all of his Pokeballs and ran off. Crystal had to wonder though. He was energetic yes but did he really enjoy doing what he does?