Author's Note:
Here it is, the first journey to the northern part of Hoenn. Like I said before, this stretch will focus more on Brock and Max, given the title of this episode, you can probably guess why. We also get a glimpse of Taillow, at the lab. I have a full arc planned for her at the lab but really, it'll focus on another couple of Pokémon you might not expect. Also, we see a big revelation of her character, this was planned from the start and if you look back, I've even hinted towards it. Back to the main story, it's pretty similar to the actual episode, but with a couple changes, nothing major. You'll also notice that I paused the poll after last chapter... and this chapter introduces one of the options on said poll. Could this small cameo be all it was in reference too? We'll have to wait and see. Oh, and happy Amourshipping day! Unfortunately, this chapter doesn't have much in way of amourshipping due to focusing on other characters but that can't be helped. New Poll starts when I post next chapter, with that, let's begin!
Chapter Thirty: Take the Lombre Home
Taillow burst out of her ball and found herself in some sort of metal room with all different machines and computers littered around. As she looked around, she saw a single window opened. Flapping her wings, she glided up to the perch, looking at the outside world as a cold wind blew against her feathers.
Looking over the view, she saw an expansive field with a fairy large lake, connected by a smaller one. Off to the right was a more barren rock-land and at the back of the open field was a large expansive forest. With several Pokémon littered around. She was too far away to make out many of any details for the specific Pokémon, but she knew her battles enough to see many of those on the rocky area were either training or battling.
"Hiya!"
She blinked as a primarily white Pokémon flew up to her. Small wings and a pattern of red and blue over the slightly tubby bottom. Hardly a challenger she'd want to take on. He doesn't seem to be the combat or big battle threat sort of Pokémon.
"I'm Togetic!" he beamed, "what's your name? And who's your trainer?"
"Taillow," she deadpanned, "and Ash... I'm guessing this is the lab he told me about."
"Yep!" he cheered, "and we share the same trainer! Quick, come and meet mister Venusaur, he does the whole introduction thing bestest!"
He dived straight down. She leaned over the windowsill to see him floating around a large bluish-green Pokémon with a massive flower. Shrugged to herself, she took off and followed suit. Opening her wings to act as a parachute, she stopped just above the large presumably grass type and landed on the flower.
"Hello there," a deeper voice greeted, "I take it your Ms Taillow?"
"Yeah," she replied, "and your Venusaur?"
"I am," he replied, "Togetic was just telling me you've arrived."
"Mister Venusaur is a part of dad's team too!" Togetic rushed around her, "isn't that great."
"Dad's team?" she questioned.
"Togetic and Ash share a special sort of relationship," Venusaur interjected, "you get use to it."
"Please tell me my trainer doesn't have some sort of sick kink," she replied.
"No," Venusaur replied, "it's just that he hatched Togetic from an egg. And as a Togetic, he imprinted on our trainer."
"Okay good," she sighed, "so... Venusaur."
"Yes?" he questioned.
"Wanna battle?" she asked.
"Maybe another time, I do still have my rounds to make today," he replied, extending a thick, dark green vine out and pointing it off to the right, "but should you wish to battle, then you'll find plenty willing combatants in the training ground. We like to limit battles and training to there so nothing is destroyed."
"Can do," she replied, stretching her wings. As she rolled them back, ready to take off, something caught her attention.
High in the air were two Pokémon locked in some sort of combat. The first being a big orange lizard with a flaming tail, with fists coated in electricity as it attempted to swing at the second Pokémon. A giant, beautiful large bird with flowing head feathers. Expertly manuvering around their opponent and striking the presumably fire type whilst avoiding the counter attacks.
"Who is that?" she blinked.
"They're Pidgeot and Charizard!" Togetic beamed, "Pidgeot is also a part of dad's team! And she's real nice too!"
"And Charizard is the starter of Drake, whose Ash's twin brother," Venusaur added, "of course, Ash has a Charizard too but I'm pretty sure that's Drake's. I mean, it's a little hard to tell from this distance."
Pidgeot stopped right in front of her opponent, using the momentum too smack her wings on both sides. The fire flying type fell down to the ground.
"She hot," Taillow uttered, unable to take her eyes of the large female bird. Her heart thumped against her chest as she watched the beauty swirl around like some sort of victory pose. Her tongue flicked against her beak as it became difficult to swallow.
"Erm, Ms Taillow," Togetic popped up, blocking the view, "y-you do know Ms Pidgeot is a girl... right?"
"Of course," she rolled her eyes, "I didn't say she's hot, thinking she's a dude."
She stared long into the fairy types face. His wrinkled nose, cocked head and with him scratching his chin made it clear she should give him a hint.
"I'm gay," she clarified.
"Gay?" he asked.
"It means I'm a girl, and I like other girls," she explained, "guys... they just don't do it for me."
"Do what for you?" he replied, "and does daddy know?"
"I dunno," she shrugged, "I mean, he never asked so I never outright said it. But I don't try to hide it either. And I mean they-"
"Maybe we should save the explanation for when Togetic is a little older," Venusaur suggested, cutting her off, "but that is very interesting. Especially, since you just came out and said it. I know some who try to hide such traits."
"Ya'll talking about Serena's Hitmontop?" she asked, "what he needs is a good bone. That'll sort his head right out. Hey, ever consider it yourself Venusaur."
"I feel like that's simplifying the issue," he sighed, "and I believe my romance days are behind me now."
"Shame," she shrugged, "well if you'll excuse me... I'm gonna introduce myself to Pidgeot."
Taking off from the duo, she briefly caught Togetic asking what she meant by bone. Inwardly chuckling to herself, she flapped her wings. Luckily, Pidgeot seemed to be stretching her wings and circled back so they were heading towards each other. Feeling the air pressure surrounding the large bird, she dove underneath and used the current to loop overhead. Keeping up with her, she entered a steady flight in a position they could chat.
"Hello," the large female bird greeted, "I take it your one of the new captures."
"Yeah," she replied, "just got here but I like this place already... great views."
"I take it you saw my battle?" she smirked, "it's easy to sense another strong battle spirit."
"You could say that," she replied, "so who would you recommend facing? Any interesting opponents."
"Depends on what you want," she explained, "wanna face a massive obstacle, someone that will take your hits and you'll need to think of a way around them? Snorlax, or any of the rock or steel types really. Dragonite has power and Aerodactyl have experience. Personally, I specialise in acrobatics, but I've been helping the queen-"
"Queen?" she quirked an eyebrow up.
"You see when you meet her," she mumbled, "but Dragonite's hardly got a strong flight pattern. She'll hate me telling you this but the first time we sparred after her evolution, she couldn't land a single attack. And her flight was nothing more than a straight shot. She was fast for sure but-"
"I look forward to facing her," she smirked, "as long as she can hit hard, I'm sure that'll be a fun battle."
"Heh, watching how you maneuverer my tailwind and your ability to keep up with me. I would've thought you'd be more of an acrobatics fighter," Pidgeot mused, "don't take this the wrong way but you hardly seemed like your built to take hits... maybe it'll be different after you've evolved."
"Not really, I mean, I get bigger but not as big as you are," she shrugged, "it's more of a personal preference."
"Well, I'm impressed your able to keep up with me as well," Pidgeot commented, "considering our size differences. I mean, I'm not even going my fastest but it's still impressive."
"Smaller body with a larger wingspan in comparison," Taillow replied, a certain glint in her eye, "where we live, we have to cross large oceans quickly. But if you really wanna see my stamina, we could race."
"I thought you'd never ask," Pidgeot smirked, "no moves, just pure speed and flying ability. Twice around the outskirts of the ranch."
"Deal," she smirked back.
With a mighty flap of her wings, the larger normal flying type sped ahead. Tilting her head to one side, she had to admit she looked just as good from this angle. Gritting her beak together, she entered a steep dive and used her wings to adjust a sharp turn, using the moment to catch back up.
She could get use to this place.
Max smiled as he looked across the makeshift field. His hand clutched to a Pokéball as he took a deep breath to calm his excitement.
Brock was opposite him, with Rhyhorn in front of him. They had already battled twice, with the rock ground type taking victories over both Mudkip and Aron, he already picked the three Pokémon beforehand but hoped this would end differently than their previous attempts.
"Alright Lotad, it's up to you and me!" he shouted as he thrusted his arm out. The device opened and the water grass type appeared in front of him.
He stood in front of the large spikes Pokémon, tilting his head to the side, "tad?"
Falling forward, his head hung low. It felt like half the time the water weed Pokémon had no idea where or what it was doing... and now was no different, "we're in a battle! You need to get ready!"
"You have already battled with both Aron and Mudkip, Max," Brock called out, "maybe we should give it a break."
"No way, Brock, we're ready for this!" he panicked, "right Lotad!"
"Lotad!" his borrowed party member cried out.
"Alright!" he cheered back, "let's start off with water gun!"
He waited a couple seconds... and nothing happened.
"Huh, come on," he groaned.
"Like I said Max, maybe we-"
Brock was cut off by a massive jet of water. It smashed into the rock ground type, pushing him back across the dusted field. Digging his heels in, he came to a stop and raised a front leg, blocking the attack as it died down.
No matter how many times he sees it, he can't help but be amazed such a small Pokémon can use that massive attack. It's easily triple his body size.
"Looks like we're doing this, Rhyhorn!" Brock smiled, shaking his head, "so let's shake it up to start with."
Rearing onto his back legs, he slammed them down on the ground. The ground started violently shaking as Max fell on his behind.
"Lo-o-o-o-o-o-o-o," the water grass type cried as the seismic-tremors subsided, "tad."
"Use Leech Seed!" Max cried, "if we can constantly drain health then we can win this!"
The rock ground type charged forward, sending a mini tremor with each thud on the ground. His horn glew white and extended out as he closed in.
"Dodge!" he cried out.
Lotad blinked and tilted his head to the side. Not moving from his spot directly in front of their rampaging opponent.
Swiping his horn to the side, Rhyhorn grabbed the water weed Pokémon off the ground and continued to charge with him in tow. Looking closely as the spikes Pokémon took a wide berth for the stampede, he saw his borrowed partner spit out a small brown seed.
It struck the forehead of the rock ground type. Expanding out in a series of vines, a red energy surrounded him, sapping energy.
Watching him continue to charge, his eyes widened in realisation. There wasn't anywhere for him to smash into and deliver the final blow.
As they charged around, the water grass type began to glow. Changing shape, he grew in size. The glowing stopped and he appeared holding onto the horn.
Climbing over the rock ground type, he ended up on the back of their opponent. Leaping off, he spun around as he ascended into the air. Sending down a barrage of razor leaves, they struck the leech seeded opponent. Knocking him off balance the rock ground type went sliding across the ground.
"Okay, I think Rhyhorn's had enough for now Max," Brock called out, as he walked over to his downed Pokémon.
Smiling, he saw the newly evolved Pokémon land in front of him. Finally able to properly take in his appearance. He was now a bipedal Pokémon that was mostly green with some light blue markings. His face, ears, arms, and back are light-greeny-blue. His ears were stubby and round, large eyes with small pupils and a red bill-like mouth. Just like his pre-evolution, there was a large lily pad on top of his head, which resembled a sombrero hat. His arms were long with four red fingers and a thumb on head hand, and three red toes on each foot.
"Lombre!" he cheered, holding his arms overhead in a circle.
"Awesome Lombre, you did awesome!" Max smiled as he walked over to Brock. A red flash recalled his downed rock ground as he stood up, "will Rhyhorn be alright?"
"Yeah, he's taken harder hits with Forrest back at the Pewter gym," he smiled, turning to the side, "and Lombre, your looking great. How do you feel?"
"Lom Lombre," he gave a thumbs up to his trainer.
"Good," he smiled, turning back to Max, "so why don't you go and get the others so we can set off again. I'm gonna give Lombre the once over."
"Sure," he smiled, turning around he shot off from their makeshift battlefield. Running ahead, he took in the sight in front of him.
May's team was off to the side, her Skitty and Minun in some sort of battle training with each other. Her Beautifly was high up in the air, performing some sort of new move. The green tinted energy radiating off her made it clear they were bug buzz. Mawile was off with Poochyena, having performed her appeals performance, clearly using attract to keep his attention as she practised. While his sister was stood off to the side with her starter.
Combusken had his arms crossed with narrowed-crinkled eyes, half turned away from her with his beak pressed close together. Looking closely, he could see each angered breath through the fire fighting types flared nostrils, "Busken!"
"What is your problem?" she cried out.
"Com," he growled, slamming a clawed hand down into the dirt, "Combusken."
"Well, if that's how you're gonna be, then return," she humped, recalling her starter.
"What was that all about?" he asked, letting his presence be known to her. His older sister turned around; her eyes were bulging with a bright red face. Her hands stuck to her hips as she loomed over him, an icy stare down to him.
"What's it too ya?" she yelled.
"Nothing," he mumbled, stepping backwards, "B-Brock thought we should get walking again. I came over to let you know."
"Right... sorry Max," she sighed, relaxing her posture, "it's just... Combusken, we were gonna work on an appeals performance."
"Gonna?" he asked.
"That was the plan," her head dropped, "I had the image of him doing one of those traditional Alolan fire sticks."
"Oh yeah, remember the one we saw when mum and dad took us Sootopolis!" he smiled, "that was awesome!"
"Yeah, and I got the idea when I spoke to mum to check on Clamperl," she smiled, "she reminded me off it and thought Combusken could do it but with his own fire. Maybe setting his feet and claws alight."
"But he didn't?" Max guessed.
"No, he did light up his claws and feet. He had to keep moving to keep the flames," she explained, "but instead of trying to come up with a dance or anything, he went straight into an attack pattern. All he cares about is the battle side of things."
"Is that really a bad thing, though?" Max asked, "it'll be good to have a strong, battle-ready Pokémon, ready to go."
"It's terrible!" she screamed, "before he evolved. Little Torchic did whatever I asked, whenever I asked. Beautifly didn't change this much when she evolved."
"Erm, well," he stuttered. He already knew why this was, he spoke to both Serena and Brock and it's pretty clear what's moulded his personality now he's evolved, but he couldn't tell May. She'd never accept it from him, and he'd be on the receiving end, "I-I need to get Ash and Serena as well."
He scuttered away, almost tripping over his own feet as he practically ran over to them. Chancing a glance back, he saw her make her way over to more of her team. He guessed she was gonna collect them all up and turned back around. Stopping just shy of the next training ground.
Murkrow and Dustox were flying high, in some sort of aerial combat. However, instead of a straight up battle, it appeared to be more of a flight lesson. Over by a small pond, Cacnea was stood, splashing around. He assumed the grass type was playing with Feebas. While Serena and Sylveon stood over with her two duel psychic types. Ralts was dancing and Meditite seemed the most intrigued. Spinning around, he sent out rows of electricity swirling around.
"That looks pretty cool," he commented as he walked closer.
"Thanks," Serena smiled, "Ralts has been working really hard on controlling his shockwave with his dance movements."
"Eon," the fairy type added, a feeler wrapped around the honey-blonde girls hand as she stood up.
"Yeah," she smiled at her partner, turning back to him, "and now that he has mastered it, it's time for Meditite's side of the deal."
"tite," the fighting psychic type grumbled.
"What do you mean?" he asked.
"She made a deal with Ralts," she smiled, "if he mastered this technique in time for our next showcase. She'd join us in the actual routine. I've got a few ideas on how we can all work together but we've still got a long way to go before we'll be ready.
"I thought your next performance was gonna be a water one," he replied, "Feebas has been practising and... I think you mentioned a Kingdra and Dewgong."
"We are working on that performance still," she sighed, "but we hit a bit of a wall. Things didn't go smoothly when Feebas visited the lab. Anyway, why are you over here? I would've thought you'd still be battling with Brock."
"I was, and Lotad even evolved!" he felt his lips break out in a wide smile, "but Brock things we need to get moving again. So, I'm letting everyone know."
"Well don't let me stop you," she smiled, "I'm sure you've still got someone to get."
Giving a quick nod, he took off towards Ash and his training ground. He cast a glance back and saw the honey-blonde female collecting her team together, he felt his cheeks heat up but shook his head and focused forward. Even if he knows nothing would ever happen, he can't help but still experience those feelings every once in a while. Luckily, they seem to be few and far between instances now. He soon made his way over to the final training session.
Ash was off to the side, performing push ups as his Houndoom stood beside him, growling some sort of command. He's hardly had chance to get to know the fire dark type since leaving Mauville. He just seems to be serious and quite intimidating. Not friendly in the slightest.
Seeing the canine wonder off, he followed his tracks to see him approach Duskull, who was off by himself. Holding his hands together, he attempted to shoot out a purple vortex of dark type energy. Houndoom muttered something to him before taking a deep breath. Swinging his head around, he launched out his own fully formed dark pulse. Hitting the row of empty cans lines up, it blew up the target entirely. It quickly became clear he was helping the ghost learn a new move.
Continuing to scan around he found Pikachu stood on a makeshift battlefield against Kirlia. Launching out a thunderbolt, not quite his most powerful from what he's seen but it was pretty big. As the psychic fairy type worked on deflecting it with confusion. Shaking his head, he knew that she didn't like teleporting but surely, it'll make her nearly invincible, so why not make her use it either way?
A loud ruckus drew his attention. The source, he found, was Grovyle and Corphish. Both Pokémon were stood off against each other, yelling at the other. He quickly took off towards them. As he reached the arguing Pokémon, so had the rest of Ash's team, along with the boy himself.
"Gro Grovyle!"
"Corphish Cor!"
"Hey! Hey!" Ash cried out, stepping between the two, "what's gotten into you two?"
"Phish, Cor-phish!"
The water type pointed his claw at the wood gecko Pokémon. Waving it back and forth in an accusatory manner.
"Grovyle!"
Raising his arm up, the leaves sticking out of them glew bright green. Expanding into an energy sword, which he pointed towards the opponent.
A low threatening growl came from the crowd. Stalking forward, Houndoom snarled at the two and Ash quickly moved over of the rest of his team.
The two Pokémon turned towards the fire dark type. Grovyle made the first move, charging forward with his leaf blades extended outwards.
Adjusting his footing, Houndoom waited for him to close in. Dodging to the side, he bites down on Grovyle's arm, cancelling one of his leaf blades. Spinning on a heel, a series of high-powered small bubbles shot towards them. Using his opponents weight, Houndoom made a complete turn.
Sending the grass type soaring, he intercepted the bubble beam and ended up crashing into Corphish. Rolling around, the two ended in a pile up.
Stepping forward, Houndoom formed a purple and black gassy ball by his mouth. With a flick of his head, the shadow ball went fly and imploded.
Ash stepped forward beside his fire dark type as the smoke fade, revealing the two Pokémon pushing themselves up, "have you too got it out of your system?"
A series of groans came from the two Pokémon. Sighing the raven-haired boy turned to his canine.
"Thank you, Houndoom, I think I can handle it from here," he offered a small smile. Giving a small nod, he walked off to the side, not losing his stiff posture as he gave him a strong side glance. Max swallowed hard at the intimidating glare. Trying to ignore his presence, he focused back on the older trainer, who had walked up to his two fallen team members, "so ready to talk now?"
Both Grovyle and Corphish weakly stood back up and turned their backs too each other. Sighing in defeat, he reached for his belt and recalled them both, attaching the devices back to his belt. He turned back around and walked towards them.
"Oh, hey Max," he greeted, "sorry about that. I don't know what's going on between them."
"Pikapi," the electric type pipped up.
"Hey, I hope not," he chuckled.
"What did Pikachu say?" he asked.
"He said they argue like an old married couple," he explained, "if that's what couples do when they get married, then it's enough to put me off the idea of marriage for the rest of my life. I'd never want to get into arguments like that with Serena."
Pikachu facepalmed from his trainer's shoulder. Covering his mouth, he let out a small chuckle at the older boy's less-than-perfect thought process.
"So erm, Brock says we should get going," he explained, "we could cover more ground before sundown."
"Cool," he smiled, turning towards the rest of his team, "well you heard guys. Rest up and we'll pick it up later."
Grabbing two more Pokéballs off his belt, he recalled both Duskull and Kirlia. Securing them on his belt, he smiled down at the boy.
"So, are you ready to go?" he asked, gesturing over to the side. Looking in that direction, he saw the others had gathered together with most of their teams return, although it seemed everyone kept a Pokémon or two to walk with.
"Well... aren't you gonna recall Houndoom as well?" he asked, with nervous side glance to the stern fire dark type.
"Nah," he shook his head, "I bet he'll love this Hoenn sun and besides, it'll be a good chance for you and May to get to know him."
"Hehehe, great," he chuckled nervously under his breath. Whilst he loves Pokémon, this particular species he remembers reading about and... less than good things we're learnt. Combined with his stern, stiff glares, it's hardly reassuring.
Following the raven-haired boys lead, he slumped behind towards the group. The canine kept close to his trainer's side, almost like some sort of bodyguard but Max could only focus on the pointed tail swaying back and forth, waiting for the opportunity to stab.
"Hey cool, is that a new Pokémon?" Ash asked as they came to a stop.
"Not quite, Lotad just evolved during the practise battle with Max" Brock explained.
"Lombre!" the water grass type cried, as Ash pulled out his Pokédex. Carefully moving around to the opposite side of his fire dark type, he was able to hear:
Lombre, The Jolly Pokémon. The evolved form of Lotad. Lombre's entire body is covered by a slippery, slimy film. It feels horribly unpleasant to be touched by this Pokémon's hands. Lombre is often mistaken for a human child
"Nice job, Lombre and Brock," Ash smiled, putting his device away.
"Actually, it was thanks to a practise battle with Max that he evolved," Brock smiled.
A silent agreement was made, and they started to walk down the dirt path. Max was able to use the opportunity to walk closer to Brock and away from the dark Pokémon, taking in the sight of each Pokémon out. Other than Ash's two, Serena had Ralts riding on her shoulder and Sylveon by her side, May had Skitty and Minun running ahead in some sort of game of tag and Brock had Lombre by his side, holding his hand like a young child with their parent.
"So Max, who will you be battling with next?" Ash asked, "you've already used most of Brock's Hoenn team. Safe for Electrike and Slakoth."
"I don't think Electrike is quite ready for that sort of thing yet," Brock interjected, "but it is a good question. Who would you choose, Max?"
"I dunno," he shrugged, "I bet Pikachu would be fun, or maybe Sylveon or Rhyhorn perhaps."
"I don't think those are your best options," Serena interjected, "all of them are quite experienced and have a pretty good battle style already in place. They hardly need help, and we tend to just help them when we notice something they might've missed or if an idea comes in the moment."
"Plus, Pikachu hardly listens to me either way," Ash added, "he tends to take battle commands more as suggestions. Not great for someone just starting."
"Aww man," Max held his head, "it would've been so awesome! I could've seen it now, either Pikachu or Sylveon verses Rhyhorn. Maybe it would've been one on one."
"Oh, I have no doubts both of them would beat Rhyhorn," Brock chuckled, "we may have some experience but no-where near as much as either of them."
"But I thought a ground type would be a sure-win against an electric type," May questioned.
"Maybe based on pure type match up but Pikachu has several counters with moves like grass knot, brick break, dig and iron tail," Brock explained, "back in Johto, we had a practise battle with Onix... Well, he's a Steelix now, but Pikachu just absolutely demolished us. We might've seen most of his battles over the years but that hardly translates into actually experiencing them."
A low threatening growl drew everyone's attention. The source being Houndoom, he turned towards a small cluster of trees.
"Something in there?" Ash asked.
"doom," he grunted, a single nod.
From the dark shadow came a familiar Pokémon. Instantly recognising it from Ash's gym battle back in Rustboro, it floated towards them in the shape of a sun but not a bright one. Blinking, the rock psychic type just stared at them as Houndoom stepped forward.
"Oh cool, a Solrock," he commented, "it's a real cool Pokémon."
Houndoom growled something back and a conversation seemed to take place between the two Pokémon. After a few moments, he relaxed his stance and returned to Ash's side. Although he still kept the near perfect posture.
"I'm glad that's settled," Ash smiled, "and it's nice to meet you Solrock."
"Sol-Rock," the Pokémon replied.
"What's settled?" May asked.
"Houndoom was on edge in case Solrock attacked," he explained, "but both said they'd only attack if the other did first. So, it's a stalemate and nothing needs to come off it."
"So Houndoom's like some sort of negotiator?" Max asked.
"Well, he use to be a pack leader so he's use to handling greetings with new Pokémon," he smiled, "he did the same when we met Brock's Magcargo."
"But we're just gonna believe Solrock won't attack?" May asked.
"Why not?" Brock asked, "for all we know, these dried lands are its home and only came to see us because we're intruding. Until we're given a reason otherwise, we should treat Solrock like we'd like to be treated."
"Rock, Solrock," the Pokémon added with a happy tone.
"Your very welcome," he smiled towards the rock psychic type.
"Lom Lombre," his newly evolved Pokémon tugged on his hand.
"What's up, Lombre?" Brock asked, as he turned towards the direction he was pointing. Max followed suit.
Looking ahead, he saw a seeming dust cloud approaching. His first thought was some sort of stampeding Pokémon but as it closed in, he saw an elderly looking woman. She was dressed in some sort of traditional red and purple robes with gold linings... and a green lily pad hat which clashed massively.
"It's the great and powerful Lombre!" she cried, coming to a stop just in front of them, "I don't believe it!"
"Wha!" they cried in unison as she pushed them out of the way. Dropping to her knees in front of his water grass type, she clasped her hands together.
"A miracle," she mumbled with her head tilted downward and closed eyes, like some sort of preyer, "nothing short of a miracle."
"Excuse me," May stepped forward, leaning down to the women's face, "why are you so interested in Brock's Lombre?"
"That's the great Lombre!" she snapped, as the young girl stumbled backwards, landing on her behind, "if you don't mind."
"Y-yes ma'am," she stuttered in response.
"You see, our little farm town have often been the subject of crises and misfortune of the great destructor, Groundon!" she explained, instantly relaxing into a more calm and subdued tone, "and the great Lombre, knight to water lord Kyogre has always come to protect us as a result."
"Crises & misfortune?" Serena asked.
"We'd love to hear what happened ma'am," Brock added, "but-"
"I'll tell you what happened!" she erupted, jumping to her feet, "it's that wicked Solrock! A minion of destructor Groundon! Came to destroy our harvest!"
"What did Solrock do?" Ash asked.
"Follow me back to our village and I'll explain everything there," she replied, marching off down the path she once walked down. Her hand snatching Lombre's, and she dragged him along with her.
He quickly took off and caught up to Brock, clearly, he didn't want her to get too far away with his Lombre. Part of him wondered why he didn't just return the water grass type and make a run for it but remembering how scary this women was quickly answered that. Heh, if they did try to make a run for it, then this women probably wouldn't ever leave them alone.
"So, what's been happening?" Brock asked, subtly looking back to see his friends following suit.
"Just wait now young one," she shushed him, "all in due time."
Brock sat down at a table in one of the village huts. All of the buildings were single floored houses of roughly the same size. Green walls making up the structure, with a red door and a lily pad shaped roof. Even the windows were shaped like Lombre eyes.
After making their way to the village, the old women called for the residence to come and celebrate. A crowd of about twenty or thirty came and cheered for his water grass type. After the commotion calmed down, the women's grand-daughter invited them all inside to help explain the situation. Luckily, the women didn't put up any resistance to this gathering as she had to 'prepare for the great and powerful Lombre', whatever she meant by that.
"Sorry about my grandmother," the twenty-something women apologised, "she can be... overzealous, at times. But she means well."
"I understand," he reassured, remembering the trouble his own father caused over the years, "my names Brock... and of course, you know Lombre. These are Ash, Serena, Max and May."
"It's lovely to meet you, I'm Mary," she smiled. Her happy demeanour changed to one of confusion. Following her gaze, he found the raven-haired boy fiddling with his Pokédex, "are you having trouble with something?"
"Oh no, it's just..." he paused, placing the device back in his pocket with a defeated sigh, "you're having trouble with this heatwave, right? I just thought that I could call over my Dragonite. She kinda specialises in rain and could easily solve this issue you have."
"That's very sweet but I doubt that would help with our other problem," Mary sighed, "it'll just change the people from worshipping Lombre to Dragonite."
"Maybe that would be a good thing," Max chimed in, "I mean. Trainer's passing through are a lot less likely to have a Dragonite than a Lombre. Especially in Hoenn."
"True," she agreed, "but I'd prefer if they found the actual cause of such things instead of jumping to actions of legends which have long since passed."
"What do you mean?" Brock asked.
"Every year around the same time we experience this sort of drought," she explained, "but it always has to be the work of Groundon. And every year they pin it all on some lonely, fire, ground or whatever type of Pokémon."
"Like Solrock," Serena added.
"Exactly," she sighed, "despite the fact Solrock has been around here for months before this drought started. Then some water type, either owned by a trainer or just wild wondering about the place comes and they wait. Either they cause rain to start or keep them here until it does rain. Celebrating them as a protector."
"And it's usually a Lombre!" May smiled, knowingly.
"Actually no," she shook her head, "Lombre was just who it was last year. We've seen Marill, Marshtomp, Corphish and even a Gyarados become the centre of their worship. It's been going on since my gran was a little girl herself... They even go full-overboard in celebrating the Pokémon."
"Which is why the houses are all shaped like Lombre, right?" Max asked.
"Yes," she nodded, sighing, "I just wish they'd look at this scientifically. While some Pokémon can help with changing the weather, I believe we'd be better off preparing year-round for this drought. Systematically taking small portions of water each week so we can sustain our crops, like the other farms do."
"Other farms?" May asked.
"These farmlands go on for miles," Brock explained, "and they are all classed as part of the Mauville area. Due to the natural flourish from the base of mount chimney and the surrounding Forina area, it's created the largest natural food source in the entire Hoenn region."
"Wow, you really know your stuff," she smiled, "some of the farms and entire farming communities, like ours. Some are ran by single households. The most famous being the Winstrate farm just north of here. But we're the only ones who don't prepare for these challenging times."
"I don't know, Mary, if they believe it this strongly then maybe you should just let them believe," Serena suggested, "I don't see forcing someone to conform into one way of thinking or another, regardless of what I believe, to be the right choice."
"Normally, I'd agree," she admitted, "but forcing others to conform to a way of thinking is exactly what they've been doing. Our village shrunk in size over the last decade, or at least our population did because they would scare off any who dare question the water lord Kyogre or the knights sent to help."
"So why haven't you left, Mary?" May asked.
"Well, because of my grandmother," she replied with a sigh, "she'd never let one of her line dishonour the village beliefs like that. My dad actually works on some of the other farms and has been instrumental in setting up the structures for collecting water throughout the year. But when grandmother found out, she completely disowned him. I can't just leave her all alone, but I also don't want to lose this entire farmland because of a drought we could've prepared for."
He was about to make a suggestion about what they could do. Offering to help set up this mechanism for her so they could at least be prepared for next year, while not the ideal solution, it was a lot like taking care of his siblings back in Pewter... but some strange chanting sounded from outside.
Everyone looked at one another before jumping up and exiting the house. Finding the village folk dancing around in a circle with all sorts of instruments.
"-fill the springs with welcomed rain! Let our village be happy again, all we-"
"Grandmother," Mary exasperated, "what are you doing now?"
"Mary, you know," she frowned, "it's obvious were doing a rain dance for the great Lombre!"
"If only I could get this thing to work," Ash uttered, still fiddling with his Pokédex, "then Dragonite could perform a real rain dance."
Part of him wanted to inform the young boy, the signal is probably being messed with by the heatwave. Just like storms can interfere with transmissions, so can extreme hot weather. It's unlikely Dragonite will show up and save the day... but he hardly had chance.
"By getting together and doing a rain dance near the spring," she explained, "we'll bring back all the water and drive away that evil Solrock."
"I've heard enough of this," Brock growled, stepping forward, "you can't just blame Solrock for no reason!"
"How dare you," Mary's grandmother snapped, "we have our reasons! Just look at what the sun it brought did!"
"No," Brock replied, "you can believe what you want, I really don't care but the moment you start blaming someone, person or Pokémon, that you don't even know. Just because they look some way, or might have a loose, superficial connection to the current event, that is where I draw the line."
Taking out his Pokéball he returned his water grass type Pokémon and dropped the device inside his bag. The crowd gasped but soon started ranting and raving, most of which he couldn't make out. His hand instinctively grabbed Rhyhorn's Pokéball off his belt.
"You can't confide the great Lombre when-"
"I will do what I believe is best and for such a young Pokémon," he paused, looking the elderly women directly in the eyes, "especially one still developing after an evolution. This sort of environment is the last thing I want him exposed too... now, I'm going to find Solrock and if any of you try to stop me then I'll have no choice but have my other Pokémon fight my way out. Should all five of them be out and I catch a new Pokémon... say one whose done nothing but is being hunted by the locals. Then Lombre will be sent back to my home. On a completely different region."
"You're planning on catching that foul soul?" she asked, "be my guest. It'll be you that's cursed, and our village can live in peace again."
"I have no intention of catching, just talking," he informed, "should Solrock wish too, then of course I'd offer an empty Pokéball... but after being pushed out and prosecuted... I think a friend is the first thing they'll need."
Without waiting for a response, he turned to the side and marched away. He would ensure Solrock no-longer suffered because of these villagers.
As he made his way into the abandonded farmlands, he noticed Max was running up behind. Coming to a stop, he turned and waited for the young boy, who stopped just in front of him. Breathing heavily as he leaned against his legs.
"What's up?" he asked.
"The others are staying behind to help Mary, but I wanted to come and meet Solrock," he panted, "and Ash is still struggling to get a signal with his Pokédex."
"Hehehe, he'll probably be there all day," he chuckled, taking out two Pokéballs. In a flash of light, his Rhyhorn and Aron materialised.
"I'm guessing you've got these two so Solrock will feel more comfortable around us?" Max guessed. A third flash shot out of his older brother figure's backpack, having Lombre appear alongside the other two.
"Right Max," he nodded, "and I guess you want to meet Solrock too, Lombre?"
"Bre!" he smiled, holding his arms overhead in a celebratory circle.
"But I thought you was going to have him sent back to Pewter for when you catch Solrock," Max replied.
"I said that to stop the villagers from trying to stop me," he explained.
"So why not have everyone else out?" he asked.
"Because Solrock is part psychic type. Meaning they have at least a low level of telepathy," he explained, "Aron is strong but welcoming, Rhyhorn is like a big grampa and Lombre is just cheerful. That's the sort of feeling we want to give out without overwhelming Solrock."
"I get it," he smiled, "and knowing how restless Electrike can get when his leg starts irritating him-"
"Exactly," Brock replied, "even if unintentional. That sort of distress would scare Solrock off. Luckily the Pokéballs also have some traits of dark types, at least on the inner parts. Which is why they are the best cure for easily curing confusion."
A bush rattled, drawing their attention. Watching closely, the sun-shaped Pokémon floated and towards them. Aron stepped forward, holding one of his stubby little front legs out, like some sort of handshake. The two dual rock types conversed with some words before the rock psychic type moved onto Rhyhorn.
Lombre, with a bright smile on his face, walked forward, calling out and grabbing the meteorite Pokémon's attention. The duo entered a talk, moving around each other like some sort of dance. He couldn't stop the smile on his face at the sight. It seems Lombre can easily make friends now he's evolved, he couldn't be prouder of the progress he's made.
"So, what's the plan?" Max asked, "if you're not gonna catch it, I mean."
"Talk," Brock explained, "from what I know, they usually live high in mount area's and not widespread landscapes. If I had to guess, Solrock came here because of the heat, rather than causing it. But I want to try and convince it too return to wherever it came from."
"How come?" Max asked.
"Because with that village on breaking point, I don't like the idea of what they'll do," he sighed, "humans have a horrible habit of justifying the most horrific of acts."
"Why not bring Ash along then?" Max asked, "he can do that talky thing... surely he'd be best for this."
"You'll understand better when you're a trainer yourself, Max," Brock smiled, kneeling down so they were eye level, "but the longer you're around Pokémon, you'll come up with ways to hear what's in their heart... your sister is starting to get it but like with most, it's starts with those she has the most exposure too."
"But I've still got ages to wait until I'm an official trainer," he grumbled.
"Come on now, your what, eight and a half. That's not too bad. It'll be here before you know it," his lips flicked up into a smirk and winked at the little brother figure, "and besides. I'll still need help with Lombre, Mudkip and the others. So, time will fly by, trust me."
"Fine," he rolled his eyes.
Smiling once more, he stood back up and approached the two Pokémon. Solrock stopped the floating dance and stared at him with a blank expression. After spending so much time with Serena, he felt a familiar tingle in his head, clearly some sort of psychic force reaching for communication.
"Lom Lombre!" his newly evolved Pokémon cheered, running up and grabbing his hand.
Watching the psychic rock type closely, despite hardly changes in the demeaner or stance, he saw a more relaxed look within his eyes. Closing his own eyes, he held onto the mental link that formed when the meteorite Pokémon searched his head.
"Hello Solrock," he mentally greeted, "my name is Brock. I'm Lombre's trainer... as well as Aron's and Rhyhorn's."
"You're not one of those from the village?" a stoic, bland voice replied.
"I'm not," he replied, "I travel around with some friends, and we were just passing through. We've stopped because of the current situation here."
"I did not cause this current drought," the voice replied.
"I know," he nodded, "even if you had used the move sunny day, it wouldn't last this long... not to mention, this is a common weather for this area at this time of year. I believe you only moved here recently?"
"At the tail end of the last drought," Solrock confirmed, "it was the strong heat which lured me here. Along with the nutritious rocks growing underground."
"What happened to your previous home, then?" Brock asked.
"Nothing," Solrock replied, "but it was very secluded. I have an interest in humanity and wished to study them. So, I set off to find a place where I could properly study your kind."
"So, your kinda like a scientist?" he smiled, "that's actually kind of neat. I know of humans who like to study and learn of Pokémon but never the reverse."
"I've seen a few of these scientists you've mentioned, and I wouldn't consider myself and them on the same path," Solrock explained, "I prefer to refer to my own goals as more of a philosopher. I'm unaware of any humans who share my goals."
"We do have philosopher's as well," Brock confirmed, "can't say that I know any, though."
"It would certainly be interesting to converse with such humans," Solrock mused.
"If you don't mind my asking," he interjected, "why not attempt to communicate with the villagers. While I doubt it would've helped much, it just seems weird that you never attempted it as a way to either improve your philosophical study or prove your innocence."
"I allow myself the chance read thoughts. Allows for a deep insight to those I'm observing," Solrock explained, "but to communicate. That's a personal connection. Should they feel my presence and reach out, like you did, of course I'd talk back. But they need to reach out first."
"I'm no psychic so I likely wouldn't come to the same conclusion," Brock admitted, "but I do travel with one. It's how I recognized your presence in my head. Chances are the villagers here wouldn't know or how to reach out."
"I suppose my methods could use a little refinement," Solrock replied.
"Look Solrock, I came here because I'm worried about you. The villagers are at a breaking point," he explained, "I want for you to leave. Go somewhere else because should you stay here... I don't know what they'll do and while I'm sure your experienced, you can't always be on guard."
"While I'd like to believe we could live together in harmony I believe your fear is justified," Solrock replied, "I have seen into their minds. Incredibly closed."
"That's just how some people are," Brock replied, "some people are also dangerous. Which is why I came to warn you."
"Alright, I shall move on," Solrock replied, "it was interesting talking with you... I believe I learnt more in this one conversation than all my time here."
"The pleasure was all mine," he smiled, opening his eyes once more.
Watching as the rock psychic type floated away towards a nearby forest. Part of him wished he could take the meteorite Pokémon with him, but it just wouldn't feel right. Everyone should have a choice, and all his Pokémon have made that choice... the only exception being Electrike but given the circumstances in which he found him, he couldn't really leave him to fend for himself.
Turning back to the others, he quickly recalled both Lombre and Aron. Lifting Max up, he rode on the back of Rhyhorn as they started to walk back towards the village and their friends. As they walked, the light patter of water splashed down with a thin, grey cloud forming overhead.
"It's raining..." Max muttered, holding his hand out, "do you think the drought is over? Or could this be Ash's Dragonite?"
"I doubt its natural, Mary would've mentioned it," Brock explained, "and knowing his Dragonite... this is too light. If I had to guess another Pokémon could've used it. Either wild and wanting too cool off, or they have a trainer and used it for some sort of battle. Either way, it should be enough to buy Solrock time."
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