Author's Note:
Here it is, the final starter of Hoenn to join the crew and a pretty similar episode to the actual anime. It's a Brock focused chapter but is that really such a bad thing? I will say, a lot of people seemed to think I would be giving Mudkip to Serena but why? Why make filling out Brock's roaster any harder? Especially, since she already has a Hoenn water type. I will say, I took more liberties with this canon Pokémon than most but that's because in the anime it was basically, Bulbasaur 2.0. as in a protector of smaller Pokémon and a sort of peace keeper. We also get to look back at Phanpy, he's got his own little arc in Dewford, if it wasn't already obvious. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter fifth teen: A Mudkip Mission
Marshtomp stretched as he exited the cottage, feeling the warm morning sun against his skin. Shaking his head, he looked up through the thick trees, only seeing the yellow sun peeking through the large leaves. A smile resting on his face, he set off through the marsh land. Feeling his soft, wet, ground beneath his feet. Energised to see the day, he fell onto all fours and began sprinting through the wet marsh.
As he passed several large trees, he saw some local Cascoon and Silcoon dangling from the branches. While this is the breeding grounds for his own kind, it's not exclusive by any means. At least for Pokémon. Many parents around the island come here as a safe haven to hatch and raise their young. It's only got one rule so as long as they follow it, there isn't an issue. Nodding towards them, he continued down the path, spotting a series of Seedot in the tree over.
He came out by the calm out spurt of the river where several small Mudkip's were playing around. A group of three were rolling around in the mud, clearly playing. They all hatched together about two weeks ago. Ah, to be young and free again. While a few more were out in the water, also playing.
"Dadda, dadda!" a voice cried out. He turned to see one of the youngest female Mudkip running towards him. A soft smile landed on his lips.
"Hey there, little princess," he smiled, picking her up so they were at eye level, "where are you in such a rush too?"
"Come quick dadda!" she cried, "my brother's are breaking the rule again! We need to stop them before old man Swamp see's and kicks them out!"
Inwardly chuckling at frantic little girl, he put her down and followed her into the nearby forest area. She is a part of the oldest group that will be sent out soon to new groups of starting trainer's. While it's tough watching his kids go off, he knows it's for the best.
They came out to a stop by the trunk of a large tree, where two male Mudkip's were locked in a battle. Each tackling each other as the soft, wet, ground splashed mud around, covering both of them in dirt as well as the nearby dirt.
"Stop them dadda!" the female Mudkip cried out.
"Okay, okay," he replied, raising his hands up, walking into the middle of the battle. He reached down and picked both of them up, one in each hand, as his lower body was covered in mud. Raising both up to eye level, both seemed to shrink and look away with blushing cheeks, "so... want to tell me what's up?"
Neither of the two were forth coming.
"Look, I know what it's like to be filled with energy and want to get out. And your both about to be set out to find trainer's next week," he explained, "but we still need to follow the rules. There's a lot of Pokémon here, not just Mudkip, who come here for safety. All battling is forbidden."
"Aww, but what our training!" one of them cried out, "you said yourself, all starters should be raised to the same level!"
"Yes, and your both pretty close to it, if not already there," Marshtomp sighed, "but training and battling are very different things."
"So, what can we do, then?" the other one asked.
"If your both serious about being ready, then we can practise your water gun accuracy," he smiled, setting them both down, "I need to go back and check on the rest of them, as well as your mother but as long as you don't cause any more commotion, then we'll do the training."
Both of the Mudkip nodded in understanding and ran off towards the river. Smiling as they went, he gave the female Mudkip a rub on the head and thanks for alerting him before setting back off through the marsh land.
Continuing through his homeland, he saw several more Pokémon. A flock of Wingull covered the skies, while not regulars, they were hardly a threat to the inhabitants. A series of Wurmple were crawling over a series of trees, while some Surskit took a hold of their own pond. It was far from the main river and they mostly kept to themselves. They were nice enough neighbours who always respected the rules. Other than a few overly energetic Mudkip, the main trouble makers tend to make their way out of the cave. For a time, there was a Sableye who always came by the cause trouble, but a trainer must've caught him because he hasn't seen him in a few weeks. As far as he's concerned, good riddance to bad rubbish.
By the time his tour of the marsh grounds came to an end, he found himself back home at the old cottage. There was a note on the door from his trainer, old man Swamp, informing him he was off at the garden. Not bothered, he opened the door to find his partner, and mother to all his children, a Swampert.
She was lying down with a group of eggs. It was obvious these would be hatching any day now. They've been through this enough to get the feeling.
"Hey honey, I'm home," he called out. She looked up and smiled at him. Making his way inside, he pecked her cheek and sat down, looking down at their newest nest of eggs, a total of two.
While it's difficult for sure, sending their kids off to be starter Pokémon for new trainer's, it's really for the best. Not long ago, Mudkip were endangered species, as all selected starters are. So, they set up breeding grounds, like this one, to help combat that issue and so sending them out to explore the world and continue what was started here is perfect. Of course, some of their kids decide to go straight into the wild instead, which is fine as well. Just as long as they help them prepare for the world, they would've done what all parent's should.
"How is everyone?" she asked.
"Good," he nodded, "there was a little fight but I'm taking them to finalise their water gun training."
"I bet I can guess who told you," she chuckled, "has she mentioned it yet?"
"No not yet," he shook his head, "how certain are you that she'll be one to head into the wild? Rather than go to be a starter, I mean."
"Remember when she was house bound for the first few weeks, we had that Pelipper visiting," Swampert explained, "he told her a whole bunch of stories about the wide ocean. Besides, as her mother, I can always tell when one will choose one path over the other."
"Well, you have had a perfect track record on that front," he smiled, "but I better get going. If not, then the boys might go straight back to battling."
Leaning down to kiss each egg, Marshtomp stood up and gave his partner one last goodbye. Leaving the cabin that, he set off through the marsh land once more. It didn't take him too long to reach the shooting range, where the two male Mudkip's were waiting. Nothing special about this location, it was a simple bench loaded up with empty bottles and cans, which old man Swamp let them recycle. A series of branches marked out where they'd shoot from.
"So, are you two ready?" he asked, which was answered by a series of cheers from them. Both of them ran up to the line ready to start training. He couldn't help but smile at the energy and passion both shared, it was very nostalgic, "so were going to gonna do some simple aim and shoot. Taking it in turns. Who remembers the basics of hitting a target from a distance?"
"Oooh, me, me! I remember," one of the Mudkip bounced up and down, "we narrow our eyes and lock on our target. Ignore everything else around us and focus only on what we want to hit. Take a deep breath and fire!"
"Well done, that've very close," he praised, "but your forgetting one important part."
"Between locking on our target and firing, we need to tense up, and adjust our footing," the second Mudkip interjected, "if we don't have a strong footing, our own blasts can knock us off balance and cause our attacks to fly everywhere."
"Right, so let's start off with simple shots," he smiled, "line up and we'll take it in turns. You just need to shoot them in order."
Watching the two little one's follow his instructions, they both shot down five cans off the bench, which were punctured by the jets of water and now rolling on the floor. He couldn't be more proud and while he wanted to up their training, he didn't want to over train them. After all, starters are meant to have the same capacity as their new trainer, that way they can train and grow into a team.
"That was a great show," he smiled, "before long, both of you will be able to perform a more complex move."
"Can you show us?" they both asked, bouncing on the spot.
Smiling at their excitement, he winked and looked over the shooting range for the perfect target. Once selected, he narrowed his eyes and dropped onto all fours, tensing up. Taking a quick breath, he shot a small piercing blast of water. It covered distance as a single spurt. Quickly, he took a second breath. The original water gun smashed through a branch on a tree, causing it to fall. Shooting a second water gun out, it struck the falling branch, sending it spinning upwards into the air. Landing straight up in the soft, muddy land, right next to them.
The look on both of their faces were a real sight, "and that's how it's done!"
"Can we do it?!" one of them cheered.
"Pretty please?!" the other added.
"Sorry but that is something you'll need to learn with your new trainers," he apologised, "beside, as Mudkip, you don't have the right stuff. You see, it's not about power but finesse. You need to be able to condense the water guns down into small single spurts and that's a skill that becomes possible with evolution. But don't worry because I know you'll both be able to do it when the time is right."
Despite their disappointed, he set up another row of cans and they spent a little more time practising their shots. It was a fun time, all in all.
Brock smiled as he sat down with Stantler resting her head across his legs. With a brush in hand, he slowly took care of her fur coat. A pot of cream was next to him that he had been dipping the brush into. It's a new soothing cream that no-only had healing capabilities but gave out nice shimmering coats and out of all his Pokémon who have tried it, the big horn Pokémon is the only one to really take to it.
"Like this, Brock?" the eight-year-old asked.
Sat next to his was Max, who had Slakoth spread out over his legs, fast asleep. He too had a brush but no cream. Concentrating on the slacker Pokémon, he was performing a great job on him. Leaving the coat in a nice, shiny, and healthy manner. For a kid, he was very quick at picking up these skills.
"Yeah, Max, you're doing a great job," he smiled, "and I betcha that Slakoth is just as thankful. So, do you wanna go and play with some of the Pokémon?"
"Aren't they training?" he asked.
"Yes, they are," he noted, pointing across the land towards a river, "but that doesn't mean you couldn't help them."
In the river was Serena's newly caught Feebas, Sakura's Marill and his own Lotad. The fish was swimming around and seemed to be dancing through the water, leaping out every so often as the part fairy type attempted to hit her with water gun, creating a sparkling water display... while Lotad watched with a blank expression, every so often joining in with water gun, but his were large and powerful instead of majestic.
"I-I think I'm happy to stay here for now," he stuttered, "after how Corphish soaked us through yesterday, I'm in no rush to get wet again."
"Okay then," he smiled, "how about we watch the others, and you could tell me what you'd do to help them in their respective training?"
"Okay!" he nodded, with wide eyes. Turning around he looked around before pointing to another group.
Said group consisted of Brock's own Dugtrio, who was quickly popping in and out of the ground, as May's Poochyena tried to pounce on him. It almost looked like he was teasing the dark type and the growling with teeth baring indicated that her canine felt similar.
"So how would you help Poochyena with locating his target?" Brock asked.
"Oh, that's simple!" he spoke up, "you see, Poochyena are known for their sense of smell. And he knows odour sleuth. So, I'd have him use his sense of smell to track Dugtrio under the ground and give him an idea where he'd come up next!"
"Good work, Max," he smiled, looking around he found another training pair, "and what about these two?"
Said group consisted of May's Torchic and Brock's own Crobat. The pure fire type was stuck on the ground, running around in attempts to dodge an onslaught of air cutter attacks and close up swipes from his poison flying type. Each time barely making it out of the way of each attack.
"I'd get Torchic to start countering with his own attacks," Max explained, "that would by him more openings and chances to recover between attacks."
"Interesting," he mused, "I would've had Torchic use the tree's for cover and disappear from sight. You can't hit a target you can't see, after all. Anyway, what about those two up there?"
He pointed upwards to where Serena's Murkrow and Ash's Taillow were locked in some sort of aerial combat, although from how the former was moving, it could easily be seen as a dance. Admittedly, from this far away, it was difficult to make out precise details on each of their movements.
"I-I don't know, but it does seem a little weird those two are paired together," he replied, "I mean, Serena's a dancer and Ash is a battler. Surely those two are both trying to achieve separate things... I mean Murkrow and Taillow, n-not Ash and Serena."
"Don't worry buddy, I know what you meant," he reassured him, "but just because they have different paths doesn't mean they can't learn from each other."
"I noticed those two before, as well," he spoke up, "remember on the boat ride over to Dewford, they went flying through the ocean sky together."
"I betcha that has something to do with a shared history," he explained, "you see, both of them are former members of flocks but held very different roles within their respective groups. Taillow was the leader and a powerful voice for the others to follow while Murkrow-"
"What about Murkrow?" Max asked.
"Let's just say that while she was a part of a flock, it was far from being the leader," he replied, "so I'd imagine she'd look up to Taillow for that simple reason."
"Alright," he shrugged turning back towards the different training sessions.
He quickly skimmed over the training session Serena was overseeing, between her Hitmontop and Cacnea. It was pretty obvious that she was helping her fighting type learn to manipulate dark type energy for a new attack, but he wasn't going force the little guy by any means. It's hard enough getting over a first crush without anyone there to make it difficult.
Max finally stopped when he locked on to the three-way training session of Pikachu, Granbull and Sudowoodo. The fairy type and rock type were locked in a close quarters fight, clearly getting the former ready to battle fighting types, who are known for physical strength. While Pikachu was acting as a coach for both of them, as well as Ash. He was close by but working out on his own. Even doing some new exercises, Brock can't recall seeing him doing before.
"Why have Granbull battle Sudowoodo?" Max asked, "I mean, he's already beat the rock type gym."
"True but Sudowoodo is about Granbull's strength, give or take and has a very close up battle style similar to a lot of fighting types," Brock noted, "out of all the options available today, I'd say he's the closest we have to the likely team members he'll face at the Dewford gym."
"Oh okay," he nodded.
"So Max, how about the training Sakura is overseeing?" he asked.
Looking towards said training session, he saw the badge-collecting-coordinator commanding her Espeon in a contest-styled battled against Serena's Sylveon, who was clearly acting as a massive obstacle, letting the psychic type take the lead for Sylveon to counter. Only giving Espeon a chance to counter that counter, clearly getting ready for a contest battle.
"I dunno know much of anything about contests," Max shrugged, "I mean, they are about showing off. I've always been focused more on actual battles."
"You might not believe this, but many consider contests more demanding than actual battles," he replied, "after all, you have to battle but also put on a show and do it within a time limit. Maybe once you've seen your sister compete, you'll have a change of heart."
"Maybe," he sighed, "but I doubt it."
"Well to each their own," he shrugged.
Turning back, there were only three training sessions left. The one which instantly drew attention was the aerial battle between Ash's Duskull and Sakura's Beautifly. Despite being stuck in place, Duskull had surrounded himself with multiple fire balls, effectively keeping the bug at bay, as both attempted to get in for an opening. It was quite interesting to see them work against opponents neither of them were familiar with.
While just below them was May with the two pure bug types. It appeared to be Serena's Cascoon helping May's Silcoon with the move iron defence. It made sense since Cascoon seemed to have more advance egg moves and Iron Defence was easiest to teach in this evolution stage.
His attention was drawn towards Ash's two newest team members. He wasn't sure what sort of training they were doing but right now, they were locked in a heated argument. It reminded the breeder of an old married couple, even if he couldn't properly understand what they were saying.
"Maybe we should go and interject with them," Brock suggested, "before they-"
It was too late.
Corphish opened one claw and launched out a flurry of bubble beams. Treecko leaped out the way and they continued onwards, striking Sudowoodo in the back. Crying out in pain, he lost his stance and Granbull went tumbling over his pure rock type.
Rolling forward, they smashed into the duo of Crobat and Torchic. Landing on the fire types back, he cried out and launched an ember burst.
The small fire balls stuck the trio of water types who splashed around in a panic. A loud ruckus adding to the commotion.
"Taillow!" Ash shouted, as he jumped to his feet. Charging over towards his two fighting Pokémon.
The normal flying type dived straight down, slamming into Treecko's back and knocking him into a nearby tree trunk. Continuing with her momentum, her wings glew white and she stopped just above the pure water type. Using the momentum, she smashed her wings down onto his head, shimmering in metal a split second before impact. Landing in front of the dazed Pokémon, she delivered an upper-cut wing attack and knocked him back into Treecko.
Both Pokémon seemed dizzy, lying on top of each other as Ash reached them. Slowly they shook their heads and stood up, "what's gotten into you two? We was all having a nice training session and it's a beautiful day, but you've gone and ruined it."
"Tree Treecko! Treecko cko!" the grass type cried in clear anger.
"Cor Corphish," the water type responded, a smug look over his red face."
"Tree!" he growled, turning back towards newest addition. He clearly prepared his tail to deliver some attack.
"Taillow!" the female bird cried, soaring up onto Ash's shoulder. Narrowing her eyes, she sneered down at both of them.
"Alright, I think that's enough training for the day," Ash sighed in defeat, "I'm gonna give you both a chance to cool off in your Pokéballs and once you have then we might be able to discuss it like grown-ups and come to some understand! Okay?"
Neither were forth coming.
"Taillow?" she growled.
Both of their eyes widened, and they nodded in agreement. Slowly backing up to the tree trunk before disappearing in red lights. Attaching his the two devices to his belt, he turned around to see almost everyone had grouped behind him. Putting on a reassuring smile, Brock stood up and approached the back of the group.
"Sorry about that everyone," he apologised, "I don't know what I'm gonna do with them."
"What were they even arguing about?" Sakura asked.
"Apparently Corphish got distracted by the water types in the pond and-" he paused, "let's just say he's looking forward to Feebas evolving. Treecko got upset that not only was he interrupting the training but would think about a should be friend in such a way."
Brock discretely glanced to the side to see Serena with her eyes shut. If he had to guess, she was talking with Feebas to ensure she felt alright about this.
"Then Corphish added fuel to the fire by teasing him about a crush of his," he sighed, "again, sorry that our training session got ruined."
"Don't be, Ash, after all we only had about an hour left before we had to pack up and leave anyway," Brock reassured, with the others seeming to nod in agreement, "today was meant to be primarily travelling, after all."
The others nodded in agreement and they went to collect all their stuff. The tents and cooking equipment were already packed after breakfast, so they recalled most of their Pokémon and set off. Brock kept Lotad out for Max to carry and interact with, whilst he kept Sudowoodo out to check on him after the surprise attack. Sakura had her Espeon walking by her side and May had her Poochyena run ahead, but it was clearly the dark types idea. Ash had Pikachu on his shoulder but also kept Taillow out who wanted to stretch her wings. While Serena walked with Sylveon.
Setting off through the forest, it didn't take them long to find a river that ran back towards the ocean. According to the map, this was a good guide towards mount Granit and as that was their next target location. So, they followed it up stream and Serena opted to let Feebas swim along them.
"Welcome to the first edition of, May's expeditions!" the brunette girl declared, holding her fingers in front of her face with a square shape, "seeking out the wonders of the world!"
"What're you doing, May?" Brock decided to ask.
"Ya know, it's like a way to document the journey," she shrugged, turning back to the path ahead and moving the imaginary camera around, "see the world as you've never seen it before! As we follow this river across Dewford island and the adventures that are hiding just out of sight!"
Brock couldn't help but chuckle at her antics and found himself listening in as they continued forward. While they've followed rivers through new lands before in their journey, having this sort of entertainment kept it from getting stale.
"Oh no, the travellers have hit a bump in the road," she called out, grabbing everyone's attention. Off in the distance, a large waterfall could be seen with a high cliffside to accompany it. Regardless of which way you looked, there was no visible steps or easy way up, "unbelievably, May's expedition finds its path blocked by a tremendous waterfall."
"What do we do now?" Sakura asked, no-one imparticular.
"I don't even think even a Magikarp could climb that waterfall," Max muttered.
"But a Feebas can," Serena added, pointing to the top. Her pure water type was already at the top and waving down with her fin.
"We can't go around it, so the only way is up," Brock mused, as he reached into his bag, pulling out a rope. He turned to Sudowoodo, who seemed to already have the idea and provided a largish sharp rock. Thanking his pure rock type, he tightly tied the rope around it and turned towards Lotad, who was sat cosy on top of Max's head, "okay Lotad, I'm gonna need your help with water gun."
"Lotad," he gave a small nod.
Smiling he turned upwards and choose his target, a large tree to the side of the river. Spinning the rope around in his hand, he mentally counted to three and shouted now. Letting the rock fly upwards, a powerful jet of water shot behind it and sent it flying straight up. It wrapped itself around a thick branch and he tugged hard on the rope to ensure it's security.
"Alright guys, we can use this to climb our way up," he smiled.
He stood at the bottom and Ash took the first climb. Walking along the side of the mountain with Max preparing to follow at the bottom. As he stood behind the young boy, he saw the three girls disappear behind some thick trees. Chuckling to himself, he figured they found some other way up. Once Ash reached the top, he saw Serena giving him a hand to get onto stable flooring.
Max quickly followed but seemed to struggle on getting a good grip. He is hardly the athletic type. Glancing up at the others, he saw Serena do a small hand gesture as her eyes glew with psychic type energy. In a rush of wind, the young boy flew up and landed safely on ground.
Chuckling to himself, he made his own way up with the rope and quickly reached the top, with Sudowoodo following right behind. With everyone safe and together, he reached up and took down the rope climber. As he looked around, he saw the dazed boy slowly regaining his senses.
"Hang on a minute, how did you three get ahead of us?" Max asked the girls.
"The news caster always needs to stay one step ahead, Max, you know that," May giggled, "but actually we-"
"-used Silcoon and Cascoon, respectively. They used string shot on a tree and glided us up," Serena interjected, cutting May off. It was clear she only did so to ensure their proper mode of travel hadn't been revealed.
"And Espeon used Psychic on me to get me and her up," Sakura added, "she was also the one to help you."
"Well... thanks, I guess," he uttered in a low voice, turning towards his sister as he stood up, "but you know May, a real news caster wouldn't reveal their secrets like that."
He turned around and took in the sight of the top of the waterfall. It looked pretty similar to the forest down below but much darker, thanks to the thicker trees blocking the sunlight, although a few beams did strike through. Stepping forward, he felt the soft ground as he foot slowly sunk in. It was almost like stepping in a giant muddy puddle. Looking over the water, it was also a lot calmer just a little bit ahead as it went into an off shoot.
"So, this is what the top of a waterfall looks like," May mused, raising her finger camera up once more, "and May's expeditions are back after a short break!"
"We should get going but be careful everyone, this seems to be some sort of marsh land," Brock warned, "it would be really easy to trip or get stuck."
With everyone nodding in agreement, they set off once more across the top of the cliffside. Feebas swam against the current with ease, as Ash and Max lead the charge, on the lookout for new Pokémon. The girls took up the middle of the pack, seeming invested in a conversation about contests, while Brock opted to bring up the back with both his trusty Sudowoodo and Lotad. He couldn't help but smile at his pseudo-family as they went exploring the new land.
Marshtomp smiled as he watched his two sons blast away the last set of cans, he set up for target practise. While happy about how much they've grown, it also comes with the sad realisation that by this time next week, they'll be off with their own trainers, exploring the world. He truly does believe it's for the best, helping his species grow and thrive after reaching the point of extinctions but that doesn't make saying goodbye any easier.
Shaking his head, he went down to congratulate the two boys, who both beamed at his praise. He also realised it'll be tougher for them to part since they've had their sibling rivalry since the day they hatched. Sighing, he rubbed the top of their heads in affection, not wanting to bring down their mood.
"Dadda! Dadda!" the female voice cried out. He turned to see his current eldest daughter running towards them. She tripped and slide in the mud, however, so he quickly made his way over and helped her up, "come quickly dadda!"
"What's wrong?" he asked.
"Some nasty humans appeared, and they have a bunch of Pokémon!" she cried out, "and they're battling! Someone's gonna get hurt or worst!"
Nodding seriously, he followed her down the marsh path and through the woods. Soon the sounds of an argument filled his ears and he dropped onto all fours, leaping across the ground, and over taking his daughter. As he stopped behind a bush, he saw a group of humans in all different shapes and sizes with the argument between a Treecko and Corphish he wasn't familiar with. His daughter came up behind him, and he signalled for her to stay still.
"Come on guys!" a human boy tried to split them up, "we're meant to be apologising, not continuing the argument.
The pure water type seemed to have enough and aimed his claw, launching a barrage of bubble beams. The boy and his Treecko dodged out the way.
This cause the attack to travel straight into the bush. He quickly turned his back and took the hit, as he shielded his daughter. Narrowing his eyes, he felt his nose twitch in anger as he shook in tremors. Looking down, he saw his frightened daughter and whispered, "wait here."
Receiving a nod from her, he clenched both fists. Ice coated each of them and he spun on a heel. Taking a deep breath, he launched out a mud shot.
The blob of brown dirt hit the ground between the trio and exploded, covering them in dirt. Using the opening, he leaped out, delivering an ice punch to the pure grass type, who was sent flying into a tree. Spinning around, he used his other hand to punch the human back, knocking him onto his behind.
"Hiyaaaaa!" a voice cried out. He turned to the source and found the Corphish leaping towards him, claws glowing white with water spewing around them.
Tensing up, he felt energy surround his entire body. Grabbing him out of the air, he used the momentum and slammed him down into the ground.
Anger from how he attacked his daughter, he began pummelling down on the ruffian Pokémon. All he saw was red as he let loose with strength. Panting heavily, he delivered one powerful kick and knocked the water type into the river, watching as he disappeared from sight.
"I can't tell you have happy I am to see someone finally put him in his place," he turned to see the grass type approaching, "but if it's all the same to you, I'd prefer to talk than battle. I'm sure you understand the type advantage I hold over you."
"That bubble beam almost hit my daughter," he panted, locking eyes with the twig chewing Pokémon, "I really don't care what advantage you think you have."
"I understand," he nodded, holding his hands up, "but I would still rather talk then fight. We might be able to clear some air, at least."
"Fine," he sneered, rolling his eyes, "make it fast. What are your lot doing here?"
"We're travelling trainers, heading towards a cave at the north of this island. Our map said this river would lead us there," he explained, "we just wanted to pass through and not cause any trouble. We had no idea a Marshtomp made a home, but it makes sense, this is a marsh land, after all."
"This is more than just my home. It's a breeding ground for Mudkip starters," he replied, "and we've got a strict rule. No catching of any sort. Many wild Pokémon on this island come here as a resting place and this rule helps protect them. We also don't permit battles, but should it be necessary, I'll break that one myself to defend my family. Understood?"
"Understood," the grass type nodded, "that is very noble of you. I too tried to be a protector for my home after it was ransacked."
"And this human took you for his own?" he asked.
"Hardly," he shook his head, "I made the mistake of believe everything was black and white. And I almost ended up hurting one that I swore to protect as a result but this human, he showed a similar heroic streak and also showed me that the whole world is in danger. So, whilst I battle for him, my priority is and always will be to protect those who can't protect themselves."
He looked towards the bush as his daughter ran out. Stopping right in front of him, she looked up with wide eyes, "so your some sort of super hero?"
"Don't get to close," he warned, stepping forward so she ended up behind his leg. The grass type took a respectful step back, glancing down at her before locking eyes with him once more, "so you said your trainers were gonna travel through this land, right?"
"That was our intentions," he nodded, "and again, I want to apologise about Corphish. My trainer caught him a few days back, but he's been nothing but trouble. I'll be honest, I'm glad you put the beat down on him. Hopefully, it knocked some manners into him."
"Look, I don't like strangers in my land but if your humans agree to follow the rules then I'll guide you through," he spoke up, "the sooner I see you through, the sooner I can relax again. Deal?"
He watched the grass type cast a glance to the side, clearly looking to his trainer for some sort of response. Turning back, he gave a small nod.
"Agreed," he replied, "but unfortunately, I'd imagine my trainer will want help finding Corphish. Since he hasn't resurfaced yet, I'd bet he's off causing trouble for others in this land. When we find him, if you want to put another beat down on him then I won't stop you."
"Well let's get moving then," he instructed, setting off down the path. He didn't wait for the humans but glanced back to see them following whilst locked in a conversation of their own. He noticed the one he previously punched pull out a red device and point towards him:
Marshtomp, The Mud Fish Pokémon. An evolved form of Mudkip. The surface of Marshtomp's body is enveloped by a thin, sticky film that enables it to live on land. This Pokémon plays in mud on beaches when the ocean tide is low
"So Treecko, tell me about your humans," he asked.
"Well my trainer is the one you punched, his name is Ash, and we are pretty typical battlers," he shrugged, "but he's got quite a bit of experience. I think this is his third or fourth region, so he isn't some novice. Then the blonde female is his mate, she seems nice enough. She's more of a dancer, though."
"And the others?" he asked.
"The two other females I hardly know, the one in an orange top I don't like," he admitted, "she shamelessly shows her favouritism for her Silcoon. I honestly feel bad for her other Pokémon. But she's still a new trainer so hopefully she'll grow out of it. While the other female only joined us for our Dewford travels."
"And the large male at the back?" he asked.
"He's one of the nicer ones, training to being a doctor of some kind and learning the different medical styles," he explained, "he seems to care for all his Pokémon and people alike. In a way, I would say he's the ideal human. He's also quite the cook and apparently taught my trainer and his mate how to cook."
Marshtomp mused as he glanced back towards the humans, focusing on one imparticular before glancing down at his daughter. An idea forming in his head as he watched her run off to go and play with some of the others.
Brock smiled as he took in the fresh marsh air. While it had a certain tang in the air, as expected in wetlands, you could still get the essence of nature from within. It was a beautiful sight that hardly anyone would be able to take in due to this places out of the way position.
Looking ahead he smiled at the conversing Treecko and Marshtomp. It seemed both held a high level of respect for each other. While he knew of these breeding grounds for starters and the role, they played in not only getting new Pokémon ready for trainers all over the region but helping bring back the selected starters from near extinction, he never thought he'd actually see one in person. Only specially selected breeders were authorised to run them.
As they continued down the path. A small cottage came into view with the smoke blowing out of the top. It quickly became apparent that this was where the water ground type was leading them. It didn't take them long to make their way inside, with the mud fish Pokémon's permission, of course.
Stepping side was like stepping into a whole different world. A faint sent of lilac filled the nostrils, giving a very homely and almost romantic setting, a complete contrast to the outside swamp. While the majority of the single room cabin was made out of wood, with a small cooking area, sleeping corner and couch, the largest section was that where a large Pokémon was lying with a couple eggs around them.
Just like Marshtomp, it was an amphibian Pokémon but with a large bulky frame and four thick limbs, the two longer ones at the front and serving as arms while the shorter limbs provided support for the Pokémon as it stood up right to greet Marshtomp. It's feet stood on three-toed feet with a hunched posture, and it's front limbs ended in hand shapes. It had orange conical gills that protruded from round patches on either side of it's face. Two large fan-like black fins extended from the top of it's orange eyes to the back of it's head. Similarly, a black fan-like tail fin extended upward from it's hindquarters. It was predominantly cobalt with a white abdomen, orange gills, and similarly orange padding on all four of it's limbs. Ash pulled out his Pokedex to scan it:
Swampert, The Mud Fish Pokémon. The final evolved form of Mudkip. Swampert is very strong. It has enough power to easily drag a boulder weighing more than a ton. This Pokémon also has powerful vision that lets it see even in murky water
"Wow, so I take it Swampert is Marshtomp's partner in these breeding grounds," Brock mused, "it's pretty big too."
The two water ground types turned towards him and the fully evolved one whispered something to her partner. Marshtomp nodded and walked over towards a book case searching through it, he pulled out and approached Brock. Holding it up for him.
"Marsh Marshtomp," he spoke.
"Yeah, Brock is training to be a doctor, Marshtomp," Ash translated. He took the book and read the title. It seemed to be a medical book about how to assist in helping Pokémon laying eggs.
"Marshtomp," he replied.
"Y-you want me to have this?" he asked, to which Marshtomp nodded, "but why?"
"Tomp. Marshtomp," he replied.
He wasn't sure why he said he'll tell him later, but Brock wasn't about to look a gift Ponyta in the mouth and accepted the book. While he wanted to start reading it straight away, he knew that they had other priorities at the moment.
"Thank you, Marshtomp, I promise to study it and use it to it's fullest potential," he smiled.
Just then, a series of cries came from outside the cabin. Everyone turned to look out the single window and saw a spew of water guns and bubbles beams shooting into the air. Looking between everyone else as the door burst open... it was the small female Mudkip from before, with tears in her eyes.
Marshtomp wasted no time in charging out. Quick on the heel, he ran after them with his fellow friends following suit.
Brock came to a stop next to the river as he saw Corphish in the middle of a group of Mudkip. He was launching of bubble beams and knocking some away, while others charged in. He knocked them back with crab hammer, respectively. Despite being out numbered, he was clearly not backing down.
Marshtomp let out a loud cry and all the water types turned towards him. The Mudkip backed away as Corphish narrowed his eyes.
Clenching his fist, ice covered them. He ran forward as Corphish copied, both claws ready to match with crab hammers. The two clashed.
Each one attempted to whack the other with their respective attacks but to no-avail. They matched each other move for move. Landing on all his legs, Corphish tensed up with a shimmering light for harden covering his body. Taking an ice punch head on.
Tacking the hit with ease, he crunched both claws around Marshtomp's arm. Using the momentum to send him flying backwards.
He turned as the water ground type smashed into the muddy ground. Sending a barrage of bubble beams direct into his back.
Marshtomp struggled to his feet and turned back with an expression of pure rage. His body glew bright white and he grew in size. Turning around, the glowing stopped and Swampert stood as the bubble beams harmlessly bounced off his chest.
Corphish added in a second barrage out of his other claw. Despite the double attack, Swampert charged forward, unaffected. A red outline surrounded him.
The ruffian Pokémon halted his attack, taking a hesitant step back. Profusely sweating as he muttered his name, but it sounded strangely like, 'I'm sorry.'
Swampert smashed both of his large bulky arms down on him. Delivering an uppercut and sending him flying once more.
A red light engulfed Corphish before he landed. Disappearing into his Pokéball, as Ash stared at it, "what am I going to do with you?"
"What's all this commotion?" a voice grumbled as a man poked out of a nearby bush. His grey hair seemed styled to resemble a Mudkip's cheeks and head fin, with a very angry expression on his face, "if you no-good thugs think your gonna take all my Mudkip then you've got another thing coming!"
"Swampert," the newly evolved deadpanned, stepping in front of him.
"Huh, of you must've evolved old buddy!" he smiled, "now we can really show these no good-"
"Pert. Swampert," he interjected.
"What this now?" he asked, "you saying these people aren't here to steal any Mudkip and are just pass through?"
The water ground type nodded.
"Oh well, I guess if they're alright with you then their alright with me," he smiled, turning to face the group, "so hey there! My names Swampy and I'm the breeder in charge of these grounds! Nice to make your acquaintance."
"Swampert swam. Pert Swam," he explained, looking at Brock.
"Your saying that we shouldn't have any more issues from here and the river will lead us towards mount granite?" he asked, to which the mud fish Pokémon nodded, "thank you, Swampert, we couldn't have asked for more help. You really helped us out today."
He gave a small nod before glancing down towards the female Mudkip, hiding behind his leg. With a sigh, he picked her up and raised her to an eye level, where they went on to converse. After a couple minutes going back and forth, they both turned towards Brock.
"Mud Mudkip?" she asked.
"Brock... Mudkip wants to go with you," Ash uttered, "and Swampert's encouraging her."
"Y-you both-"
"Hahaha, I get it!" Swampy boomed, "ya see, this little one is about ready to be sent off as a starter, but she isn't big on battles or such! It's not uncommon and we usually just let one's like that out into the water but with how timid she is, it's unlikely she'd stray too far from our wetlands."
"So, you want Brock to take her and help her grow?" Max asked, "that's so cool. I never thought a Pokémon would let their kid go off like this."
"Just like humans, Pokémon only want what's best for their kids but they also age at a faster rate than humans in most cases," Serena explained, "its why your parents let you accompany us on our journey! With Brock's supervision, of course!"
"Thank you, Swampert, I'd be honoured to take Mudkip with me. And I promise to take good care of her," he smiled, holding an empty Pokéball out. The small water type leaped forward and dived into the device. Being engulfed by a red light, she disappeared out of sight where the Pokéball dinged instantly. He felt Stantler's Pokéball teleport off his belt and smiled as he let her back out. Holding her in his hand, she nuzzled up against him.
"Pert, Swampert," he bowed.
With a series of goodbyes from all around, they set off down the river path and away from the wetland. As they walked, everyone was enthralled with their own talks as he got to know his newest team member. As they came out of the deep woods, they decided to set up camp. With Ash and May working on the tents, Serena took up cooking duties and he went on looking after the Pokémon with Max. He slowly approached the honey blonde girl as she stirred the stew pot.
"Hey, do you mind if I borrow your Pokedex?" he asked, "I kinda want to look up more about Mudkip."
"Of course," she smiled, handing him the device which he used to scan the napping little one in his arms:
Mudkip, The Mud Fish Pokémon. The fin on Mudkip's head acts as highly sensitive radar. Using this fin to sense movements of water and air, this Pokémon can determine what is taking place around it without using its eyes
"Thanks," he smiled, handing her the device back. He stood up to walk back when Gengar popped out of thin air.
"Alright, the author went fifth-teen chapters in Hoenn without a single appearance from yours truly!" she declared, "and I can't let my adoring fans down! None of you made the joke so it falls down to guess who!"
"Gengar... do we need to do this now?" Serena sighed, "it's kinda been a long day and-"
"Yes! We need to do it now, because you uncultured Rattata's don't know how to reference quality memes," she crossed her arms in defiance, turning to face the readers, "I herd u liek Mudkipz."
Togetic smiled widely as he swooped through the air. His little brother rolling beneath him with great speed. He really missed his little brother whilst he was in Hoenn with his daddy and Uncle Pikachu... actually he really misses them too, as well as mama-Serena... and aunt Granbull.
Despite seeing the training ground coming up, something else caught his attention. Mad lad Blastoise, as he likes to go by, was spraying the side of the hill and riding down on his shell in a massive sledge. It looked really fun! Swooping down, he came to a stop in front of his little brother. After showing him the mad lad, they set off to meet him at the bottom of the water slide. Reaching the pure water type, he smirked down at them.
"Hey little dudes, how are ya'll?" he asked, reaching into his shell, and pulling out a pair of shade. Flipping them open, he placed them on his face. Togetic wasted no time in matching him, pulling out his own shades and putting them on. Glancing down to his little brother, who cautiously looked side to side, "hey little dude, where your shades be? Ya'll still an honorary member of the Squirtle squad, bruther."
"W-well, erm, ya see," he stuttered, "Ash decided he didn't like the idea of me being a part of a gang. He took the sunglasses."
"He did tell me the same thing, remember," Togetic added, turning back to the water type, "he even took mine."
"Ah, I remember lads," he smirked, reaching into his shell, and pulling out another pair. He wasted no time in placing them on his little brother, "ya see, Ash is just jealous that he can't lead the Squirtle squad! So, he doesn't want us to have the brother hood at all."
"Does Ash get jealous?" Phanpy asked.
"Of course!" mad lad Blastoise yelled, "every dude wants to be me, every women wants to be with me! So not just Ash get's jealous but everyone does."
"That sounds like something related to that spy with all those movies uncle Pikachu watches," Togetic mused.
"Well, who do you think that spy is based on?" Blastoise asked, gesturing to himself.
"He never seemed very turtle like, or water type, really," Phanpy opted, seeing both Pokémon stare at him, "what? We watched one the night after the gym."
"Anyway, where were you two heading?" Blastoise asked, "I'd hate to keep you from somewhere or thing important. Are ya'll going on a double date?"
"We're on the way to the training grounds!" Togetic squealed in excitement, "Phanpy had a tough time in the gym and needs to get stronger!"
"Remember little dude, with the Squirtle squad, you're as strong as the toughest of us!" he nodded to the ground type, "so if anyone starts giving yo trouble, then send 'em my way. Understand?"
Nodding in understanding, they set off once again. Togetic flew high as he looked around the battle ground. He quickly saw a lot of big strong brawly Pokémon like, Primeape, Tauros, Nidoking, Arcanine, and Machamp, with others further back. Deciding on trying to find the right partner, he continued to scout, until the sight of Drake's Piloswine came into view. He was by himself, trying to form several glowing balls around him.
Since he's by himself, he could likely use a partner as well. Swooping back down, he regained his little brother's attention and lead him over to the ice ground type. The swine Pokémon stopped practising his attack and looked at them with a stoic expression.
"Hello?" he asked, "can I help you?"
"Hiya!" Togetic greeted, with a wide smile, "we was wondering if you wanted a training partner?"
He quirked an eyebrow up, looking between the happiness Pokémon and his little brother, "which of you is offering?"
"My little brother," Togetic replied, moving to the side for Phanpy to step forward, "you see, he had a tough time in a gym recently and wants to get stronger."
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt," he nodded, "I've been trying to get a new move working so maybe a battle would help clear my head and make it work."
"Yay!" Togetic cheered, "and I can be the referee!"
Giving a small nod and moved back, entering a battle stance. He turned to see his little brother, who narrowed his eyes and scrapped his foot against the dirt ground. Excited by the chance to watch his little brother battle, he moved in-between them and raised both arms up.
"Let the battle begin!" Togetic declared, swooping up into the air.
His little brother started running forward, leaping, and curling into a ball. Continuing down the path, he picked up speed.
Smashing into the ice ground type, Drake's Pokémon took the blow. With a flick of the head, he sent his little brother flying backwards.
Sliding on his side, Phanpy quickly got back onto his feet. Flicking his trunk through the dirt, he slapped a heap of mud into Piloswine's face.
With the swine Pokémon blinded, Phanpy reared onto his back feet. Slamming them down onto the ground, it looked like the ground started shaking violently.
A ball of ice formed, shooting out from his mouth. It curved through the air, striking the pure ground type. Knocking him off and cancelling the bulldoze. He landed on his side, looking battered and bruised. Angered by this, Togetic swooped down into the ice ground type.
"Hey! How did you hit that so accurately?!" Togetic yelled, "your meant to be blind thanks to the mud!"
"Elementary, my dear Togetic," he replied, shaking his eyes clear of mud, "you see, I know earthquake and thus learnt to trace through seismic movement."
Turning back to his little brother, he saw Phanpy curling up into a ball. A light surrounded him as he rolled forward, picking up speed.
Piloswine moved slightly and took a deep breath. Releasing a powerful icy wind. It struck Phanpy head on, but he continued to roll forward. A layer of snow joined in the attack, sending Phanpy rolling backwards. He landed on his side, shaking as he was covered in ice.
"You can do it, little brother!" Togetic cried out.
Drake's swine Pokémon closed his eyes and several glowing balls formed around him. Launching them out, they shot across the field. Only to fade away.
"W-was that meant to be an ancient power?" Togetic asked, no-one imparticular. It certainly looked that way but not quite there.
That delay, however, seemed to provide enough time for Phanpy to struggle back to his feet. Raising his trunk up and rearing back on his hind legs, his body glew bright white. Togetic felt a tingling of excitement travel through his body as he watched his little brother grow in size. Unfortunately, the sunglasses cracked against his bigger face, as his body changed shape within the glow.
As the glowing stopped, his little brother was now a primarily grey Pokémon with a thick, black band of hide running down the length of its back and extending to the tip of his long trunk. A pair of white tusks extended from the corners of his mouth. He had a pair of thin, elongated ears held out almost perpendicular to his body. His four short legs each encircled with broken, black bands and three toes on each foot.
As he ran forward, shaking the ground with each impact he made, he curled up into a ball, which is how Togetic discovered his little brother resembled a tyre on a vehicle. Great power expelling from his powerful rollout.
Once again, Piloswine tried his icy wind and powder snow combo to stop him but his little brother continued. Smashing into the ice ground type, sending him flying. Donphan exited from his rollout, landing on the gravel ground, covered in a light ice patches with Piloswine flat out in front of him.
"Hooray! Little brother!" Togetic cheered, as the ice ground type shakily stood up, "you evolved!"
"Urg," Piloswine groaned as he struggled back to his feet, "congrats kid."
"Thanks!" Donphan smiled, "do... you wanna call the match there? I mean, I don't see a reason for us to continue right now."
"Sure," he nodded, "besides, it looks like I need to get back to working on Ancient Power."
"So that was ancient power you tried to use," Togetic beamed, "if you'd like, I can help you with it!"
"You can?" Piloswine asked. Wanting to prove his point, the happiness Pokémon closed his eyes. Forming several ancient power rocks around him, he had them orbit in a circular motion. Finally shooting them out in all directions, "wow. Okay, I guess I could use the help. But shouldn't you finish the battle as the ref?"
"Right," he nodded, raising both arms up with a super serious expression on his face, "as referee for this battle, I declare it... Fun!"
"Alright," Piloswine sighed, shaking his head, "but one question, why would you help me? I mean, we've not exactly spent much time at all together."
"Because a friend in need is a friend in deed," Togetic declared, "and you helped my little brother to evolve."
"Little brother?" Piloswine asked, "but... you realise he's like thirty-eight times your weight, right?"
"Little brother means little brother," Togetic declared, "evolution doesn't change a thing!"
"Hey big brother," the newly evolved ground type spoke up, "I'm gonna find Tauros and Primeape. I hope they can help me better learn to use my new body."
"Okay, little brother!" Togetic cheered, "and then later we can go back to mad lad Blastoise! Now your bigger, he might have another pair sunglasses that'll fit you!"
"Okie dokey!" he replied, curling up into a ball and rolling off with great power.
"That's my little brother, he grew up so fast!" Togetic declared, tilting his head to one side with tears welling up in his eyes. His wide smile caused his chin to dimple and he slowly wiped the prideful tears away. Shaking his head, he turned back to the ice ground type, "anyway, you ready to get started, Piloswine?"
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...