Author's Note:
Here it is, one chapter I have been really looking forward too. I will say, the bombshell at the end of the last chapter is more of a tease for the next arc in this series, Drake's Unova arc. I am mentioning it at the start but obviously expect me to go into more detail in that one... when we get there. I will say, the events I've referenced for Drake is my second lake of rage... take that as you will. Anyway, onto this actual chapter. As the title suggests, we get an evolution. I have changed this one from the canon but for good reason. To match her character arc. We also get a look in on Grovyle but that's nothing massive and we get one step closer to the fifth gym battle and... a surprise but we'll need to wait until next chapter to see what I mean. Oh, and a visit to the lab. Those are always fun. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.
Chapter Forty-Seven: That's Just Swellow
Ash let out a breath as they stepped through the Petalburg woods. His eyes wondered over their group. May was humming to herself, a wide smile on her face and she seemed to be in her own little world. The doctor in training had his Trapinch out and resting on his back, reading some sort of cookbook with him, every so often the ground type would like his jagged lips. While Max rode on the back of Brock's Vigoroth through the trees. Joining them in the trees he spotted his pure grass type leaping from one branch to another with minimum breaks. The sun peeking through a few holes in the trees but a cool shadow covered most of them.
Glancing back down, his eyes caught Serena's, who quickly took it as an invitation to move closer. She intertwined his hand with her two, gently rubbing her thumb over the back of his hand with a soft, comforting smile flickering upon her lips. He tried to look at her but couldn't, his eyes falling down to the ground.
"So, you never told me, Ash," Serena spoke, barely above a whisper, "how is Drake holding up?"
"I didn't get to speak to him." He sighed, squeezing his eyes shut as the image of his brother in a cell plastered the front of his mind.
"They aren't allowing him visitors?" she asked, "or even phone calls?"
"No, they are," he shook his head, taking the opportunity to look at her. She moved closer, wrapping one arm around his back. He would've been flustered by the position of his arm against her body if not for the thoughts running through his head, "he was denied bail, but he can take calls in the place he's being held whilst awaiting trial... but he refused to talk to me... I even tried speaking with his friends there, but he's cut them out too."
"I'm sure it's just a shock thing," she replied, rubbing a hand up and down his arm.
"Uncle Green is there," he added, "he was in Unova anyway and he's been checking on him... but I can't help but worry."
"He's your brother," she replied, "of course you'd worry. But what did your uncle say?"
"He said not to worry and he'll keep an eye on him. He seems confident that this is some misunderstanding and said I shouldn't worry," he sighed, "just focus on my own adventure and he'll get him sorted out... but I don't know if that's just him reassuring me or-"
"Well... I think that's what you should do then, Ash," she replied, "I mean. If your uncle Green is saying it's a misunderstanding and he's there, then you should listen to him. Even if just for a little while. I bet he's just nervous about the trial and wants to focus solely on it. Remember how much planning he did for his adventure through Kanto? I know it's hard, not speaking to him yourself but I can sort of understand his refusal to speak."
"You can?" he blinked, turning to face her with wide eyes.
"Yeah," she uttered, giving a small nod with a reassuring smile, "look at how it's affected you here. You've hardly spoken since last night, when we stopped off at the flower shop you brought those flowers for Grovyle but didn't even try to catch up with Natalie or the others and you haven't even told Brock."
"Drake doesn't want anyone to know," he sighed, "that's one thing uncle Green stressed. Other than himself and me, only Professor Oak and mum know."
"Not your dad?" she asked.
"He doesn't want him too and Uncle Green is respecting that... he didn't even want me to know but G convinced him otherwise," he sighed, "and they had to tell the Professor because all his Pokémon are back at the lab until it's sorted."
"See," she added, "imagine the effect it's having on him. He probably doesn't even know which way is up and that's why he won't speak with you. You'd have a tone of questions and I doubt he has the answers to give right now."
"I guess you're right," he sighed, moving his arm around her waist, he pulled her in. Burying his head into the crook of her neck, he planted a small peck on her cheek, "what did I do to deserve you?"
"Chased a Poliwag through a bush... and scared the crap out of me," she hummed, nuzzling back at his show of affection.
A thud sound drew his attention forward. In front was a small grassy field with a large opening from the treelines, allowing massive sunlight to rain down in the circle. At the centre stood a single sprout for a new tree. As Grovyle stood in front of him, having jumped down from the branches.
He slowly walked forward and set down the bouquet of flowers they picked up from the shop. Kneeling down, he couldn't help but notice that he took out the twig in his mouth and carefully stuck it into the ground next to the sprouting. Reaching up, he broke off the first thin branch which sprouted off the new tree and placed it back in his mouth.
"Hey Brock," Max whispered, "I thought it took years for a tree to grow but that one is already a decent size and it's only been a few months."
"I would say that's thanks to Meganium's influence from before," he replied, "she infused it with grass type energy and the genetic material of the previous tree which grew the entire Petalburg forest. So of course, it would be an impressive specimen and grow quicker."
A flash of light jumped off his belt and the other members of his team materialised. Duskull floated beside him, glancing downward as Taillow perched herself on a nearby tree. Neither tried to interrupt, probably because they were here when they first met the wood gecko Pokémon and knew what this place meant to him. Corphish and Kirlia stood beside, and they seemed a little impatient but one glare from his female bird kept them quiet and at bay. Slowly, his newest team member walked forward, stopping right beside Grovyle, who gave him a side-glance.
"This place is very beautiful," Torkoal nodded, looking around the entire surroundings, "you must've been lucky to grow up here."
"I was," he nodded, barely above a whisper. Seeing the moisture swell in his eyes, the grass type squeezed them shut before any tears could escape.
"I offer my condolences for what happened back then," he replied.
"Th-thank you," he slightly stuttered, somewhat taken back. Dropping down onto one knee and feeling the grassy field beneath them.
"The scent of a rose will always stay on the hand of the giver." He let out a calm smile, extending his head up as he soaked in the sunlight.
"Huh?" his grass type blinked, standing back up.
"It's my way of saying that no matter where you go, you'll carry the meaning of this place and will be able to spread its beauty as well," he smiled, "even if you're not here, you can't change the effect it's had on your life. And that is priceless."
The evolved Pokémon rolled his lips into his mouth and glanced down. Walking over to him, he carefully placed a hand on Grovyle's back, rubbing it slightly in a comforting manner. Glancing at his eyes, he saw tears forming, threatening to escape but he quickly squeezed them shut. Wiping them away to remove any evidence it was going to happen. They all stood in silence for a couple more minutes until the grass type sighed.
"Okay... I'm ready," he glanced up to him.
"Wanna walk outside your Pokéball still?" he asked, to which the wood gecko nodded.
"That would be nice," Torkoal added, a slightly cheeky smile on his face, "thank you."
Smiling at the coal Pokémon, he turned around. Corphish and Duskull had already run off, playing some sort of game of tag. With Taillow spreading her wings above the treeline. Realising all of them wanted to remain out, they set off through the forest once more. Grovyle took up leaping from one tree to the next.
Serena smiled and decided to add in her own team. Murkrow and Dustox took off flying, the former seeming to try and keep up with Taillow. Cacnea made a quick attempt to hug her, but she set up a psychic layer to prevent his spikes from hurting her. Her Kirlia ran ahead, joining in the game of tag and Bagon perched herself on his girlfriend's shoulder. Zangoose walked close by, conversing with Torkoal.
"Hmm," the dragon type sighed.
"What's the matter, Bagon?" Serena asked.
"I was kinda hoping either Dustox or Murkrow would let me ride their back," she sighed. Ash guessed that she also said the same through their mental connection, "what's up with her and Taillow anyway? Any chance the two birds will be ruffling feathers, if you know what I mean?"
"I know what you mean!" Duskull yelled as Corphish delivered a right claw to his back, "ow!"
"Yuh it!"
"I believe the term is, birds of a feather," Torkoal interjected, a light chuckle in his voice, "or kindred spirits."
"I don't think that's what Bagon was referring too, Torkoal," Serena interjected.
"Do you mean Murkrow and Taillow are going out?" Ash asked his fire type, "I mean, neither said anything to me. What about you, Serena?"
"Nope," she replied, glancing up to the two duel flying types, "but it doesn't really matter. I just wished they'd have told us if they are."
"I do not believe my eye diseeve me," Torkoal added.
A light grunt came from the pure normal type, and they turned to see Zangoose staring off into the forest. His nose twitched and eyes narrowed, as his arms fell to his side, ears standing on end. He couldn't help but swallow hard at the hunter's actions.
"What's wrong Zangoose?" Serena asked.
"Someone's watching," he whispered. He waited for about a minute longer before sighing and relaxing his posture, "they're gone... for now."
"They?" he found himself repeating.
"Yeah, there was multiple off them," he replied, "not sure how many exactly though. And I'm not sure if they'll be back."
He paused and glanced up to the tree line. The two birds flying around, well Murkrow was in an almost dance, but Taillow remained at a steady pace. The only group he could think off who might've been watching around here was his female bird's old flock, but they were active outside of the forest and surely, they remember what happened last time they tried to ambush them... Something just didn't sit right with the Pallet native.
Speeding through the treelines, he panted heavily. Narrowly avoiding the branches, he soon came to a stop in front of a large tree. Perched on the branches were the three leaders. One was scratching his talons against the trunk, while another laid on his side, eating oran berries. The third quirked an eyebrow up and soared down, landing on the branch just above him, leering down with narrowed eyes.
"I thought we told you lot to go and find some targets," he spat.
"W-we d-did and-" he panted.
"Find one already?" he asked, "well where are the goods? And the others? If they're eating the spoils, then I'll-"
"N-no it's not that," he stuttered, "you see, we saw the trainers from before. The one's which caught the old boss."
"What?!"
The other two bosses swooped down and landed right next to the original. All three looked down at him but no-longer were they threatening, more intrigued with slightly red cheeks. With one having his tongue practically hanging out. He also could've sworn he saw stars sparkle in their eyes.
"Was she with them?" one of them asked, a slight voice crack.
"Ye-yeah," he stuttered, "we left the others to keep an eye on them
"Aw man, I can't wait to see her again!" he practically squealed, "and when she sees my newly evolved form, she'll-"
"Hang on, bro," the second one which joined cut him off, "you're not the only one who's evolved and if she's gonna fall for anyone then it'll be me!"
"Erm, actually!" he tried to speak up.
"Quite you two!" the original leader stomped his clawed talon down. Bringing the other two into pure silence, "if anyone is going to battle her, I am. After all, I know the others don't respect me quite like they did her. They thought my position was unearned because I never bested her in combat."
"Aww come on boss," one of the two Swellow patted a wing on his back, "no one thinks like that."
"Yeah!" the other one added, "all of our flock loves you."
"But they don't fear me," he replied, "she could silence the lot with just a look. And if she's back then-"
"She'll be too busy with me to worry about taking the flock back," the first of the two side Swellow smirked, "if you know what I'm saying."
"Nu-huh," the second one shook his head, "if she's gonna be with anyone it's me."
"Well, that-"
"What?!" the main leader squawked at him.
"Erm," he swallowed hard, feeling a lump in his throat, "i-it's just that... we kinda overheard them."
"And?" he asked.
"S-she's already in a relationship," he stuttered, "w-with a Murkrow from their group."
"A Murkrow?" the second side Swellow gasped, "why would she pick a guy like-"
"Girl." His voice barely above a whisper. A cool sweat flooding his head as all three larger birds glared down at him.
"What?" They all blinked in unison. The same confused expression mimicked over their faces.
"Y-yeah, we heard a few of them talking." His mouth went dry, eyes darting between the trio. "S-she's dating the Murkrow a-and they don't even seem angry th-that she's... ya know. Gay."
The main leader's face morphed. His brows lowered from the wide-open confusion into an anger filled glare. With the top of his beak twitching, he leaned forward in an uncomfortable distance, "you mean... not only did she beat us all on a daily basis but... she never would've taken one of us as a partner? She wouldn't help us continue on the strength of our bloodline?"
"W-well yeah, I suppose," he swallowed hard, a lump stuck in his throat.
"Take us to the other's," he instructed. His voice calm and cold, "I'll be leading this ambush. And I'll show her what true power means."
Slowly nodding his head, he turned around and took off back towards the others. Despite being unable to bring himself to look in their direction, he felt the trio burn a hole in his back. The chatter from behind was enough for him to know all three were right on his tail. While not everyone feels the same as them, it is known Taillow are meant to breed to create the strongest offspring. It's how it's always been so someone who'd break tradition like that...
He shuddered at the thought of what they might try to do to her. Shaking his head, he focused ahead, back to the flock overlooking the group.
Ash smiled as he took in the sight before him. Taillow and Grovyle were charging through the trees, each trying to land a blow on each other.
His female bird would slap her wings together, trying to get down that boom burst move Norman's Swellow used. Although she wasn't quite big enough to provide enough for the power transfer. With the move turning into a more glorified air cutter than anything else. While Grovyle tried to land a thunder punch on his normal flying type. He had become quite good at engulfing his fist in electricity but holding onto it, especially when on the move. With them racing around to match their respective speedy battle styles.
Duskull and Kirlia were off by themselves, the former still working on teaching the former shadow ball... well more working on getting it down together. With his ghost type having the typing knowledge whilst the emotion Pokémon had the technique thanks to moves like moonblast. As he watched them work, he made a mental note to have Kirlia help Duskull learn psychic next. Being able to move things around with easy being great for his battle style.
The last pair of Pokémon he glanced towards were Corphish and Torkoal. Locked in a battle, his newest team member was able to easily keep the water moves at bay with his strong fire counterparts. Rather than any particular move or technique, he was having the wise mentor help Corphish learn control. A lot of times he'll rush in without the speed or strength to back it up... it's how Flannery got the poison on him back in the last gym battle.
With a deep breath, he relaxed his stance and turned towards the source. Brock and Trapinch had set up the cooking pot and were working on the special stew. He might've liked cooking from time to time but now he knows how to do, he doesn't mind who does it and Brock's mainly doing the job now just because of Trapinch. Shaking his head, he continued to glance around.
Serena was conducting a battle between her Zangoose and Bagon whilst the rest of her team were off doing their own thing. He couldn't but smile as his heart bubbled. She always just seemed to have a way of making everything better-
All the Pokémon came to a halt. A single gust of wind blew through the makeshift campsite. Zangoose snapped his head in one direction as squawk roared.
From all directions, Taillow flew towards them. His eyes went towards Max, but he relaxed. Both Brock and May surrounded him. Using Solrock, Lairon, Vigoroth, Skitty and Minun to fight off the swarm which went for them.
Taking off, he joined Serena knowing less groups would allow for more coordination. As he reached her, he noticed Zangoose and Bagon charging headfirst into separate parts of the flock. She had also recalled Cacnea, Dustox and Feebas. His Kirlia was by her's, the siblings working together as he presumed Murkrow was high in the air, battling some but he couldn't specifically make her out among the ambush.
Quirking an eyebrow up, he looked at Torkoal. He had two Taillow trapped. One under each of his front legs. Shooting flamethrowers into the air.
Several roasted birds laid on the ground in front of him. Whilst the others quickly flew away... he wasn't gonna question how right now.
Duskull, Grovyle and Corphish were side by side. The latter two launched out bullet seeds and bubble beams respectively, shooting the birds down. While his pure ghost type countered with a payback on any which dared get close.
His eyes turned skyward as Taillow easily manuvered through her former flock. Knocking out her opponents, as she went for quantity. With the team being better prepared, it only lasted a couple of minutes until most of the Taillow were either defeated or retreating.
"Silence!" his female bird squawked, landing on the ground in the centre of the chaos. Everyone went silent, all eyes on her, "I gave specific instructions when I left. This group is off limits. Now who's in charge of you lackies?"
None of the Taillow responded. A slight wind blew past, rustling the tree leaves.
"I just asked a... Simple question!"
A slight rustled echoed and in a blur, three large Swellow zoomed in. Landing right in front of his smaller bird. She gave an exaggerated glance over her fully evolved counter parts. As she finished, locking her eyes with the middle one... she yawned, covering her beak with a wing.
"Am I meant to be impressed?" she asked, "the simple fact it takes three of you to replace me speaks volumes."
"Now wait-"
"Did I give you permission to speak?!" she yelled. Taking a deep breath, Ash could've sworn he heard a pin drop, "that's what I thought. Now answer me this, since when do Swellow lead a flock of Taillow? Once you evolve, your meant to be self-reliant and head off on their own."
"You have no power over us anymore," the middle Swellow declared, glancing around, "everyone get outta here."
The slight scatter of batting wings echoed. Some of the flock preparing to take off with the three leaders standing over his own normal flying type.
"Stop!"
As the echo silence around them. Everything became silent once more. He couldn't help but gasp at how effortlessly she commanded her previous flock despite not seeing them in months.
"Now, you maybe the current leaders but we all know I'm the true leader," she hopped closer, into the middle one's face, "after all. You didn't get the position from beating me in combat. And don't think I don't remember every time I grinded your face into the dirt."
"Do you think any of that matters?" one of the side Swellow hopped forward, puffing his chest out in her face.
"What are you blathering on about?" she rolled her eyes.
"We know what you are," the second side Swellow added, mimicking his partner, "how you betrayed your flock."
"And exactly how did I do that?" she crossed her wings over her chest, quirking an eyebrow up.
"We know that your gay," the first side Swellow replied, "we heard the chatter beforehand. You're dating that Murkrow-"
Her eyes flicked down and glanced to the side. He couldn't help but gulp as her eyes matched his for a brief second. Scanning sideways, he followed them to see the female bird perched on his girlfriend's shoulder. Her cheeks burst bright red, and she turned her head to hide behind Serena's. The top of Taillow's beak twitched as she turned back to the trio. Rolling her wings back, she slightly tilted her head to the side.
"I don't know what you think you heard but that's wrong," she replied.
"Now your gonna try and deny it?" he spat.
"No... I am gay, I never actually denied that... you just failed to ask when I was leading the flock," she nodded, "but the only thing between me and Murkrow is a student teacher thing. You see, unlike you three, she actually has potential. That's why I don't mind training her."
"Why you little-" one of the side Swellow hopped forward.
"Finish that sentence," she interjected, "I dare you."
"Bitch."
In a blur she threw herself forward. Her wings quickly coating in metal as she slammed them on the two sides of his head.
Whilst she scratched the thin legs with her long taloned claws. Wrapping her wings around his head, she pulled herself back. Dragging her unbalanced opponent with her, she tossed him backwards through the dirt. Landing on her feet, she watched as he rolled through the dirt.
The other two Swellow flapped their wings, taking off and circling around. She glanced upwards for a brief second, hopping off the ground and following suit.
"Sh-shouldn't we help her?" he heard Torkoal ask.
"It's more them I'm worried about," Grovyle shrugged.
Turning upwards, he saw her barrel roll between the two birds. Causing both to crash into each other. Her wings spread and shimmered in metal as she turned around. Making a wide turn, she knocked into both of them.
Both Swellow fell slightly. Adjusting their wings to catch themselves before hitting the ground. Both soaring away in different directions.
She quickly spun herself after the side Swellow. Diving down, she picked up speed and smashed into his back.
The larger bird crashed down into the dirt as she opened her wings. Bringing herself to a stop mid-air as she watched his crash.
"Look out!" Duskull called out.
She gave a swift wink towards them as the second side Swellow, who seemingly recovered, crashed into her back. The two went flying forward as she spun herself around in his grasp. A red outline surrounded her body as she clutched her talons into his feathered chest.
Wrapping her wings around his head, she leaned back. Tumbling forward, she sent the second fully evolved opponent down into the dirt.
She hit the ground first. Rolling in the dirt, she brought herself to a stop as her opponent crashed further.
Another Swellow shot behind her, grinding her into the dirt. Glancing up, he noticed the original leader watching closely as his two henchmon beat her up.
"This isn't good," he grunted, "one on one she could handle them but since their's three of 'em."
The two Swellow knocked her between them. Neither allowing her a moment to gain her baring.
"I thought she was the tough one who can handle pretty much anyone," Torkoal muttered.
As she went flying back, the Swellow extended his beam. With a swing of the head, he stabbed her in the chest upon impact.
Crying out, she slapped her wings together against his head. Leaving the dazed bird, she turned around and shot off... straight towards Duskull, "will-o-wisp!"
His ghost's eye widened. A flicker of a blue flaming ball materialised in front of him.
She sped up, disappearing in the blink of an eye. Moments later, the ball imploded on the spot and Duskull seemed to fade before reappearing. Shuddering as he re-emerged, he looked around between them, "is it wrong that slightly turned me on?"
Not wanting to encourage him, he turned back to the battlefield. The two Swellow back up and circling around.
Coming back into view, she appeared with blue flames surrounding her body. A mystic glow engulfed her body as she smashed into the first one. Grinding him into the ground. She stood on top of him with her body glowing. Smashing her wings down in a brutal assault. Blood spattering out.
The second Swellow crashed into her back, knocking her off. Revealing the original target, lying down with swirls in his eyes and blood covering his face.
She spun and adjusted her wings. Soaring around, she quickly overtook the one who hit her. Ascending towards a tree as he took up the chase.
Circling around the trunk upon his approach, she smashed into his chest. Her beak glew and extended, jabbing straight into his chest.
Shimmering her wings in metal, she brought both down onto his right wing. A horrifying crunch echoed with his cries of pain.
Entering a nosedive, he landed on the ground with a heavy crash. She followed straight down with a glowing body. Her facade smashed into his back, and she skimmed off across the ground, leaving the broken-winged opponent on the floor... unconscious.
She stopped and landed, panting heavily with fire engulfing her body. Turning around, her chest raised and lowered with each breath. Her eyes flaring like one might their nostrils in anger. She turned her head upwards towards the original leader who seemed to be waiting for her.
"Come on then!" Her voice cracked.
He hopped off the branch, falling down before slapping his wings together. A slash of air zooming down towards her.
Raising her wings, she took the air slash head on. As it threatened to push her wings away, a bright light engulfed her body. Growing up, she brought the wings down, pushing the attack back into the grass. Her glowing stopped and she stood with flames surrounding her body.
The orange burn contrasted against her dark-blue feathers beautifully. A crest of feathers swept back from the top of her head. A blue stripe separates the red markings on her head and chest, and she had a white underside. Each foot had three forward-facing toes and one pointed backward. Two long, pointed feathers with red tips formed its tail. She had small, narrow eyes, a pointed, yellow beak, and red feet with black talons. Looking up at the final opponent, she twitched the top of her beak with bringing her brow down further.
Causing the pupils in the opposing Swellow's eyes to shrink. Turning around he took off into the treeline.
She kicked off the ground and rocketed up after him. Disappearing in the blink of an eye, she reappeared a second later ahead of him.
With a shimmer of metal over her wings, she brought them down on his back. Sending him diving downwards in a spiral.
Performing a loop, a bright blue flame engulfed her body. Spreading her wings, it burst out into a colourful orange flame. He blinked in surprise that she learnt brave bird through evolution... it took Pidgeot a while to get that one down. She smashed into her opponent at the base of a tree.
The flames dispersered revealing his newly evolved normal flying type stood over her opponent. While he coughed, weakly pushing himself up.
Using her own wings to help, she pushed him back against the trunk. Flames surrounded her body, joined by a mystic glow.
Throwing her wing forward, she brutally smashed the facade into him. Hit after hit, each one pushing him further into the tree. Bark splintering off.
"I!" Smash! "Beat!" Smash! "You!"
Raising her two wings she brought both down on either side of his head. Leaving the leader in a pile on the ground as she walked away.
He swallowed hard at the display of strength. While he always knew she was strong, it was almost like she was holding back before. The only battle which really came close was the one against Roxanne's Armaldo and even then... Shaking his head, he pulled out his Pokédex to check her out:
Swellow, The Swallow Pokémon. The final evolved form of Taillow. Swellow flies high above our heads, making graceful arcs in the sky. This Pokémon dives at a steep angle as soon as it spots its prey. The hapless prey is tightly grasped by Swellow's clawed feet, preventing escape
Type: Normal / Flying
Ability: Guts
Hidden Ability: Scrappy (Note: This hidden ability is currently unlocked)
Gender: Female
Nature: Hardy (Note: This is unlikely to change due to this Pokémon being fully evolved)
Move(s): Brave Bird, Pluck, Growl, Focus Energy, Quick Attack, Wing Attack, Double Team, Aerial Ace, Quick Guard, Agility, Endevour, Steel Wing, Facade, Work Up, Endure, Reversal
Putting the device away, he noticed her closer than before. Her eyeline straight towards the oldest in their group. Turning her head to the side, she seemed to crack something and rolled her wings back.
"Alright Brock, do your doctor-healing stuff with 'em," she instructed the eldest of their group. Seeing his stoic expression, she sighed and turned back, "hey, trainer. Do the old translation thing will yeah."
"Oh erm, right," he chuckled lightly. Turning towards the once breeder, he repeated her first request which he was happy to comply with.
As Brock tended to the unconscious Swellow trio, she turned towards the Taillow in the flock, "Fall forward!"
Just like soldiers, they swooped down, creating a platoon of birds on the ground in front of her. Standing straight with blank expressions, she leered down on her pre-evolution. Despite knowing her, he couldn't help but feel nervous for them, unsure what she was planning. Using her wings, she sliced down the middle, causing them to split into two separate groups.
"You lot," she turned to the first group, "fly south. Maybe set up shop at Dewford. You can decide on your new leader when you get there."
The group of Taillow glanced around for a moment before settling eyes on her. With an extension of her wing, they turned and took off, disappearing through the treeline. Once completely gone, she turned to the second group.
"And you lot," she continued, "fly north. Past the city. Set up somewhere by the mountain side. Then you can decide upon your new leader."
He couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at her instructions as the remaining Taillow set off once more. Watching her ensure they disappeared from sight, she turned to Brock, walking over, and standing over the three male Swellow. It took a couple minutes, but they slowly started to come back around.
"Urg," they groaned in unison.
"Glad to see your up," she sneered, "I just wanted to be the one to tell you, the flocks gone."
"Gone?!" the main leader yelled, grunting in pain as he failed to push himself up.
"That's what I said," she shrugged, "but I really should've done that when I left the first time. End on a high note and all that."
"Y-you can't just-"
"But I did," she cut him off, "see, a Swellow shouldn't need to rely on a bunch of Taillow for an easy life. That's not what the flock is for. Now you have to do the right thing and fend for yourself, like you should've done once you evolved."
"You bitch," he sneered.
"I know," she smugly replied, holding her head high, "and you know the best bit about sending the flock away?"
"Wh-what?" one of the two side-Swellow grunted.
"Not telling any of you where they went," she smiled. Kicking off the ground, she glided through the air and landed on Ash's shoulder. He wobbled slightly, not use to the heavier bird. While she didn't quiet reach Noctowl's weight, it's been a while since he perched on his shoulder, "oh and just so we're clear. I'm about to beat up the local gym leader. We'll be sure to tell him about you lot so if he hears rumours about a group of Swellow terrorising trainers in the forest then he'll sort you out... maybe even capture and ship you off to different regions"
Turning towards the others, he saw all of the stuff had been packed up. Knowing they'd need to get moving to reach Petalburg before nightfall, they went on their way. Leaving the Swellow trio to sulk in the events. As they walked, he glanced over to his other Pokémon walking by his side. Duskull and Corphish continued their game from earlier, while Kirlia walked closer to Serena, with her little brother. While Corphish and Grovyle were slightly ahead.
"-young Grovyle, might I ask a favour from you?" he overhead the fire type.
"Sure," he shrugged, "what is it?"
"Remind me not to get on her bad side," he replied, "in battle, it's not about the size of the fighters but the size of fight in themselves."
"Hey Swellow," he whispered to the bird perched on his shoulder, "you know, Norman probably wouldn't split them up. He just might to get them somewhere safe for both them and new trainer's that walk through Petalburg forest."
"Whoops, do you think I gave them the wrong impression?"
Giving a glance to his normal flying type, he couldn't help but smile. Her eyes relaxed and the corners of her beak flicked up into a small smile as she held her head up. For possibly the first time, she seemed genuinely happy... and not just for defeating a tough opponent in battle.
Ash smiled as he reached up, running his hand through the feathers of his newly evolved Swellow. While he convinced her to eat a rawst berry to cure her burn, she refused to let him fix up her feathers after the battle.
"So, I guess my first real opponent will be the little one's dad," she smiled, "it should be fun."
"Try again," he corrected her, "you already know who I'll be using, remember. Your evolution doesn't change that."
"It should," she muttered.
"Actually, it shouldn't because of the chance you'd struggle with the change," he replied, "speaking off, how are you finding your new form?"
"Struggle?" she replied, "you saw me back there! I kicked ass!"
"Ass?" Duskull popped out of his Pokéball, floating beside them.
"Okay, time to change the topic," he declared, not wanting his Pokémon to continue down this path.
Glancing around he spotted Max and Brock off to the side. The younger boy having Brock's Mudkip in his arms, as Brock cradled his disabled electric type. He subtly moved closer in their walk, catching the tail end of their conversation.
"-one thing I don't get," Max spoke up, "Swellow was clearly strong enough to handle any of them one on one before she evolved... so why hadn't she evolved before now?"
"It has been theorised that evolution isn't just about the physical side of a Pokémon," Brock mused by the boy's side, "and in fact the mental state can affect it. Maybe over coming her previous oppressors whilst not hiding who she truly is was... I dunno. Her overcoming whatever was holding her back."
"Just like with my Venusaur back when he was an Ivysaur," Ash chimed in.
"And evolution isn't everything," Serena added, "it seemed like they gave up on training once they evolved. Using their bigger size to bully the other Taillow so they started slacking. While you've Swellow in action, she put everything into training, every time."
He couldn't help but chuckle at his bird's reaction. The corners of her beak seemed to dimple and flick upwards in a smile. Her head raised up too with her thrusting her lower beak forward and eyes half closed. A slight redness entering her cheeks as she glanced back to him.
"I always liked your girlfriend," she uttered, "no idea what she ever saw in you though."
"Just because I said no to battling Norman?" he quirked an eyebrow out.
"No," she rolled her eyes with an exaggerated shake of the head, "because it's more fun when it's just girls."
"Oh, should I tell Murkrow that?" he smirked, "I'm sure she'll-"
"Shut it," she snapped, slapping her wing over his mouth. He couldn't help but inwardly smirk at her wide eyes and burning red cheeks. Letting out a low chuckle, he raised his hand to remove her wing, "you mention anything to her and... I'll peck your eyes out whilst you sleep."
"You wouldn't," he replied but his face fell upon her unamused expression. His throat drying up at the threat, "would you?"
"Try me," she replied.
"Kinky," Duskull popped up behind them. She turned her narrowed gaze towards the first Pokémon he caught in Hoenn. His ghost's eye widened and he moved to the other side of his head, cupping his mouth to whisper into his ear, "should I be scared or excited by her now?"
"I heard that," she growled.
Letting out a yelp, he quickly engulfed himself in a red light. Retreating back into his Pokéball. He couldn't help but shake his head and chuckle at the brief interaction, "be nice to Duskull. He's just having fun, ya know."
She replied with a roll of the eyes.
"You know... if you wanna talk then we can," he added, "I mean. I never knew you had all that anger built up. We could've dealt with it sooner if-"
"I don't need to talk to anyone!"
"Alright, alright... but, the offer is always available," he replied, eyes flickering off to the side. A small smile creeping on to his lips, "how about listening then?"
"Huh?" she blinked. With a slight incline, she turned to see Serena with her Murkrow perched on her shoulder. His girlfriend gave a casting look before closing her eyes, connecting her mind to his.
"Just so you know, Murkrow is pretty upset with what Swellow said..." she explained, "about the student teacher thing."
"I figured," he replied.
The dark flying type took off and soared overhead. He couldn't help but look at Swellow's lingering eye on the other female bird in their group.
"You know," he spoke out loud, "you did say you was her teacher. And part of teaching is listening to the feelings of those you're helping. And it looks to me like she could really use someone to talk to right now... completely, platonically, of course."
She quickly narrowed her eyes for a brief moment before sighing. Jumping off his shoulder, she slowly ascended upwards towards Murkrow. He couldn't help but smile at the sight of them flying together, although both too far away to make out any of their speech. His arm soon became engulfed by his girlfriend, looping her two arms, with her hands clasping around his one. Swinging with it, she rested her head on his shoulder, watching them fly about.
"You know, what she said really hurt Murkrow," she mentally connected her mind.
"I saw," he replied, "but I don't think she meant it... completely, anyway."
"Huh?" She blinked, turning to look at him. Smiling, he rested his own head on top of her's.
"I think she was protecting her... keeping their attention on her and no-one else," he replied, "it's what I like to think anyway."
"So do you think we should help them out?" she asked, "I mean... I do want them to end up happy."
"I dunno," he replied, "I mean. I don't have much experience in this area. As I started realising my feelings, you confessed so... there's wasn't really a time in-between. You'd know better, I mean, didn't Leaf and Misty... and Miette, try to push us together?"
"Erm, yeah," she sighed, "and when put like that... I'm sure they'll figure it out eventually. No need to rush."
"That settles that then," he smiled, leaning down to rub his nose against her's. Plucking his lips, they connected their lips.
He took a deep breath as they stood on a small hill which overlooked the suburb city of Hoenn. With a deep breath, the fresh ocean air filling his lungs as he glanced around. They returned most of their Pokémon after a while, each opting to keep one out. His Swellow soared high above them with Serena's Murkrow in a sort of dance around the orange evening sky. May had her Lileep in her hands. While Max carried Mudkip whilst Brock carried his Electrike.
"So how does it feel to be home, you two?" Serena asked.
"It's weird... I'm glad to return but..." May muttered, "it almost feels like our adventure is coming to an end."
"Well, this is just a pit stop," he reassured, "after all, I've got more badges to get. Serena has two more princess keys, and you need two more ribbons."
"It's unfortunate for you, Ash, that we'll need to return here later since we know you won't be beating our dad," Max declared, "right May?"
"I erm," she stuttered, blinking in surprise, "I dunno-"
"You think dad could lose?" he asked, "b-but he's gonna become an elite four-member a-and-"
"Calm down, Max," Serena instructed, kneeling down to his level, "May didn't say that and you just kinda put her on the spot."
"Y-yeah, I didn't say I want dad to lose," she added, "but I... also don't want Ash to lose either. Can't we just enjoy the battle?"
"See," she smiled. A loud rumbled echoed from the young boy's stomach, causing her to giggle and cover her mouth as he blushed bright red, "now why don't we get to your house. If we hurry, then we might make it in time for dinner."
"Awesome!" he cheered running forward at a speed which would put Pikachu to shame, "I can't wait for mum's cooking again!"
"Hey! Wait up!" May shouted, taking off after him. Even returning her grass rock type, "I'm hungry too!"
Laughing, he felt his girlfriend return to hugging his arm as they set off behind them, "Heh, it's like you've got competition Ash."
"What'cha mean?" he asked his girlfriend.
"For the biggest appetite in our little group," she smiled.
"I don't eat that much..." he mumbled, as she pushed herself up and pecked his cheek.
"I didn't say it was bad," she whispered, "just a surprise."
"Well, I doubt that's the only surprise whilst we're here," Brock chimed in.
"What do you mean, Brock?" Serena asked.
"You'll see," he smiled.
They continued on with mild chitchat, following the Maple siblings through the mostly empty streets. As they passed by the gym, he couldn't help but notice the close sign hanging on the door. His mind filling with the image of a battlefield whilst Norman and his Slaking stood on the other side. Much taller than in person and surrounded in shadows. He couldn't help but swallow hard at the thought.
He's been studying the Pokémon he knew the gym leader would use since he mentioned it in Larvaridge. While he knew it was pretty similar to Snorlax, being a big naturally strong normal type, which can take a hit. The fact it's Norman's ace and he's up for a position in the elite four gives him some reservations, after all, this would be like facing Lance's Dragonite or Agatha's Gengar... maybe he should switch in some of his more powerful team.
Soon they arrived at the Maple household, and he forced the thoughts out of his head. His team has been training hard and deserve the chance to prove themselves. If things don't work out, then they can reassess.
Smiling, they entered the building and saw the children reuniting with their parents. Soon they noticed the others and invited them inside properly. Settling down for a well-cooked meal curtsy of Caroline, they also set up the sleeping arrangements. With Norman having cleared out the guest room for the couple and Brock opted to take the sofa. As they settled down for the night, Ash smiled as Serena's enticing scent sent him into a slumber.
Being here felt weirdly like returning to Pallet town. He couldn't quite explain it, but it just had that homely atmosphere.
Meditite burst out of her Pokéball. Shivering as she materialised on the cold metal floor. Shaking her whole body, she peaked out to find herself in some sort of lab. Stretching, she realised that this was likely that lab Serena mentioned where her's and Ash's Pokémon stay when not on their teams.
Standing up, she glanced around and noticed a wooden door. Seeing as it was the only way out, she walked towards it. As she did, she noticed two humans in the side of the room talking. Both males but one looked much older, in a lab coat and red buttoned undershirt. While the smaller one had spikey brown hair and a slick black shirt with pointed collar.
"So, your flight will be two days from now," the older one explained.
"Hey gramps," he spoke up, "given their latest update. We could meet up with Ash and Serena. I bet they'd be more than happy to help."
"If they are nearby then certainly but we can't delay the timeframe," he nodded, "Leaf's coming with you so even if you can't connect with them, you'll have some back up."
"Right," he nodded, "I'll go and make sure Blastoise, and the others are ready."
Disappearing through the doorway, she quickly made her way out of the lab. Blinking. She took in the completely new environment.
No longer were the walls and floor made of metal, decorated with different pieces of machinery. A comfy carpet laid under her feet and wooden planks made up the floor beneath it. While the walls were more traditional design, like an old comfy cottage.
Hearing the footsteps behind her, she quickly made her way towards the staircase. Walking down whilst holding onto the handrail. She couldn't help but feel a weird sense as she no-longer felt the intense heat which she had become use to. Reaching the bottom of the staircase, she found two pathways. To the right was a corridor down to an open door, which showed a grassy field outside. While slightly ahead and to the left was a doorway into another part of the building.
"Cuddle."
Turning back to the door leading outback, she saw a purple sludge Pokémon slivering in the way. With arms extended upwards, it quickly made its way towards her. Not wanting to see what would happen, she quickly made her way into the other room.
As she pushed the door shut, leaning against it, and sliding down. Letting out a sigh of relief, she looked around the new room. A single coffee table decorated the centre of the room with different magazines littered on top. A large sofa laid longways across the room, opposite an old-fashioned fireplace. Either side were two armchairs, facing each other. As she stood up and walked further in, she noticed a familiar sight lying on the armchair.
"Sylveon!"
Running over to the side of the armchair, she noticed a cup of hot chocolate being placed on the table with one of her feelers. She had a blanket over her back but her eye's lingered on her underside. Unlike last time she saw the fairy type eeveelution, her stomach budged out, like some sort of water balloon.
"Hello Meditite," she smiled, "I see you've come to visit the lab for the first time. How are you?"
"I'm good," she nodded, unable to tear her eyes off her friend's stomach.
"And what about the other's?" she asked, "what are they all up too now?"
"Serena lost her Verdanturf showcase but May won her third ribbon," she explained, "they were just leaving Rustboro on the way."
"So, what brings you here?" She asked, "did Serena catch another Pokémon?"
"N-no nothing like that. It's just that Kirlia, me and Serena were practising on our routine. We had an idea of using my psychic powers to colour the scene to amplify Kirlia's dance but..." she paused, "sorry. Can I touch it?"
"My stomach?" she asked, quirking an eyebrow up.
"Yeah..." She muttered. Two feelers reached down and wrapped around her body, lifting her up onto the seat.
"Sure," she shrugged, "but you won't feel them kick or anything."
She slowly reached out and placed a hand against her stomach. Despite the soft fur, it felt surprisingly solid. Closing her eyes, she sent out a weak pulse of psychic energy but to no-avail. Dropping her head, she lowered hand, letting out a disappointed breath.
"Don't feel bad, Meditite. They're just eggs at the minute. The offspring won't start to form until shortly before I lay them," she replied, "so you was saying about amplifying the display around Kirlia's dance?"
"R-right," she shook her head, "we had this great idea, but I couldn't visualise my powers like that. Serena suggested I come here because of the psychic types who can help me learn this trick."
"Well then, I think you should go and find Delphox," she replied, "she was Serena's starter and she's part psychic type. You could go to Alakazam too but he's more battle focused so I doubt he'd be the idea tutor for this. Come on, I'll introduce you."
Pushing herself up, she jumped off the chair. Taking a few steps away, she blinked in surprise at the fairy type, "b-but your-"
"I'm pregnant, not crippled," she replied, shaking her head. Wrapping a feeler around her hand to pull her along, "please. You're as bad as Pikachu."
Pulling her through the door, she froze seeing the sludge Pokémon from before. Sylveon released her grip of her feeler, moving her others to wrap around the creature who carefully wrapped his large arms around her. A dazed smile with pink cheeks completely confused her as the hug ended.
"Huh?" She was pulled along by the one of her friends feelers. Soon they made it out of the door and onto the back ranch, "b-but... wha-"
"Muk can seem scary but he's really sweet," she explained.
As they walked across the grassy field, she noticed the direction they were walking towards. A group of Pokémon were off, doing some sort of training. In the air were two small flying types, one being some sort of bug and the other a blue ball with big cotton balls. The former flying around the latter like some sort of dance while different powder's coloured the scenery. She couldn't help but gasp, seeing the sort of effect she was hoping to create herself.
While underneath them, two Pokémon seemed more locked in a battle. The two combatants were hidden among the clash of fire and lightening.
A blue outline of psychic engulfed the two. Spinning around like some sort of volcano display, the attacks erupted and cleared the field.
She took in the sight of the two opponents, one being a tall yellow Pokémon with a red gem on her forehead and a bright bulb on the end of her tail. While the other looked like a red witch, with a matching wand. As she took in her full appearance, noticing her having resemblance to a Vulpix or something.
"Bravo," Sylveon announced, clapping two of her feelers together. The two Pokémon turned to her and smiled.
"Nice to see you up, Sylveon," the yellow one greeted, "how did you convince that boyfriend of yours to let you walk on your own?"
"Blastoise came bursting in mentioning a tournament Tauros was hosting in the battlegrounds," she smirked, "it took some time, but he made me promise I wouldn't move a muscle... he even made coco before leaving."
"I wish I would've known," the fox Pokémon added, "I could really go for some hot chocolate right about now."
"Sorry Del but I've got someone to introduce to you," she replied, using a feeler to pull her forward, "this is Meditite. She's a psychic fighting type and we met her on Dewford island. We was hoping you could help her out, actually."
"Me?" the one revealed as Delphox asked, "how so?"
"Well, she was practising a performance with Serena but... we ran into an issue," she explained, "she's a great fighter but the idea was visualising her psychic powers to create a dazzling display which... she can't really do."
"Okay," she nodded, "firstly, I'd like to see you battle."
"Huh?" she blinked, "how come?"
"So, I can see how you utilise your powers normally," she replied, "I can't help you without a basic understanding of your knowledge and skills."
"Right," she nodded, "so who'll be my opponent?"
Instead of answering, she placed two fingers in her mouth and let out a loud whistle. Wincing at the piercing noise, she glanced around. She soon noticed something blue moving quickly towards them. It flew off a short, nearby hill and landed next to them on one knee with jazz hands.
"Quit showing off Quagsire," Delphox criticized, "we need you to be an opponent for Meditite here."
"Meditite?" he blinked as he turned towards her. His face broke out into a wide smile which forced his eyes into squints, "hiya!"
"Quagsire?" she questioned, "you're the one Feebas mentioned. The friendly one."
"Feebas mentioned me?" he asked, his voice low, almost a whisper. His cheeks burst bright red as he glanced down to the grass, swirling his foot around the grass where he stood. She couldn't help but smile at the sight. She knew her friend felt pretty pathetic after the performance with Kingdra and Dewgong but seeing this reaction proved not only those she in met in Hoenn are her friends.
"Can we focus please," Delphox asked, pinching the bridge of her nose.
"R-right," he stuttered, shaking his head. Taking up a battle stance and she returned in kind. Tightening her two fists as her feet spread apart.
"Now Quagsire, we need to see how Meditite moves so... just kinda take it."
"Righty-o!" he smiled widely. Dropping his arms down from their original stance. She blinked and dropped her own fists.
"Erm, w-wait," she stuttered, "how am I meant to just beat him up? I-I mean it just feels... wrong."
"It's fine, Quagsire doesn't mind," Delphox replied, "do you?"
"Nope," he smiled, "if it helps you then I'll do it... or anyone really."
"B-but..." she sighed, "could you at least block... please."
"Righty-o!"
Taking up her stance once more, she ran forward. Bringing her foot up, it crashed into one of his arms and bounced back. Landing on it, she used the momentum and jumped delivering a kick to his other side with the opposing foot. She spun and landed on both feet, with one arm to balance herself.
He wobbled slightly. Returning to an upright position. Charing forward, her hands glew white. With open palms she smacked them into his core.
Knocking her opponent backwards, he skidded to a stop. Ending in a stance similar to which she ended up in.
"Headbutt!" Sylveon shouted.
Her opponent charged forward. A weak power barrier formed around his shiny dome as he closed the gap. Flying towards her.
Running forward, she performed a handstand by planting her hand on his head. Rolling over his back to avoid the impact.
"Water gun!" The fairy type commanded once more.
Turning around she found the water ground take stood up once more. With a deep breath, he shot out a powerful blast of water straight towards her.
Feeling the energy tingle through her fingers, she blinked, and her vision became infused with ESP. Spinning on her heel, she captured the jet with her energy and spun, causing it to spiral around her. Sending it flying off to the side and away from her.
"Okay, I think I've seen enough," Delphox stepped forward, "you emit your psychic energy through your hands but use your whole body to control it."
"Why is that important?" she asked.
"Because the more power you exert, the more control you'll need," she replied, "tell me, do you know the move Calm mind?"
"I don't."
"Then I suggest we start there," she smiled.
The psychic fire type went on to explain the basics of the move and she nodded, making mental notes of her details. While Serena's starter seemed a little touchy, especially with how she set Quagsire up. She couldn't deny she was very knowledgeable and if Sylveon trusts her... she can too.
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...