Hello all Storm here with a new chapter! Here we'll be seeing Naruto tell May and Max about where he is from along with his life in Konoha and why he left. We'll also see Naruto catch a new Pokémon and learning some new things. So, without further ado.
I own nothing
Revised: 2/13/20
Naruto, May, and Max sat in a clearing in the Petalburg Woods, having lunch while taking a break from walking. A day had passed since they met the Elite Four Member, Phoebe, along with their encounter with the Pokémon Poacher, Rico. Max and May would constantly glance at Naruto, wanting nothing more than to ask about his strange powers, but not wanting to seem rude about it.
May especially was curious, sure Naruto told her he was a Ninja, but May has never heard of Ninja doing what she saw him do, except in anime, manga and video games. Naruto had noticed the looks and mentally sighed, knowing he'll have to tell them more about his past, otherwise they'll begin pestering him for answers or try and find out for themselves; unlikely as it'd be that they'd actually learn anything about where he comes from.
"I know you both have questions, go head and ask." Naruto said, with both siblings immediately shooting question after question at him.
"Where did you get that sword?"
"What was that glowing ball thing you made?"
"Can other people in your home do the same things?"
"Was it your Aura?"
"Alright, calm down! I'll explain everything that I can, and then I can answer your questions, one at a time." Naruto said, with May and Max going quiet, though eager to learn more about their mysterious friend and his powers.
With that out of the way, Naruto began telling them where he was from, his life in Konoha, becoming a Ninja, the missions he went on, minus the darker details, him and his team being entered in the Chunin Exams, all leading up to why he had left in the first place and his decision to travel to the Server Regions. The only thing Naruto didn't tell them about was the Kyuubi, since he was still worried of how they'd react to learning he had something like that sealed in him.
At the end of his explanation, Naruto let out a bitter chuckle.
"You know, it's not even the fact that I was disqualified that made me leave. Sure, I was disappointed and upset that I couldn't fight, but I'm sure I would have eventually gotten over it and been more prepared for the next Exams. What made me leave was the fact the Hokage was a hypocrite and allowed Sasuke to fight, even though he was way later than me. It's always been like that ever since the Academy. I used to admire Sasuke, since he had everything I always wanted, everyone's respect, people praising him, and even girls chasing after him. Then at some point, my admiration turned into jealousy when I saw that Sasuke just brushed it all aside and chose to stay alone." Naruto said, frowning.
What really angered Naruto was that Sasuke always used the excuse that he had to get stronger to kill his brother and avenge his family. And while Naruto could understand the desire to get justice, the fact Sasuke never appreciated the fact that he was still alive and that there were people that cared about him. Whether it was for being the last Uchiha or not, he still had people that were there with him, along with the memories of a happy family who loved him.
Naruto never had any of that, no friends, no family, nothing, but being hated and feared for a burden that was forced on him. He didn't count the Hokage, because for all Naruto knew, the old man probably didn't care about him and only wanted to find a way to keep the Jinchuuriki loyal to the village.
"It only got worse when we were put on the same team, even then I was still stuck in Sasuke's shadow, everyone choosing him over me, Kakashi training him, Sakura cheering him on, and I was always just second best. It worsened with the Chunin Exams, where I was constantly brushed off for Sasuke, wherever I went. Kakashi didn't even bother to give me something to train with for the finals, just passing me off to the closet pervert, Ebisu, who didn't even bother helping me train or get stronger. The Hokage allowing Sasuke to fight in the finals, while I was disqualified was just the final straw. So, I left and never looked back." Naruto said, finishing his story.
Honestly, if he could go back, knowing what he did now and make it so he was on time for his match, Naruto would probably do the same thing. He's been far happier here in Server than he ever was in Konoha; here no one hated him, he had real friends in May and Max, along with his Pokemon, and he no longer had to prove himself to, or the need to earn people's recognition.
Once Naruto finished his story, May and Max felt surprise, awe, and sadness at hearing everything Naruto's gone through. Along with anger and disgust at how Konoha and Hokage drove him away for how they treated him.
Getting up, May sat down beside Naruto and hugged him, surprising the blonde.
"It was wrong of those people to treat you like that, no matter what their reasons were. Especially pushing you aside for someone who clearly didn't care about them, you deserved better Naruto." May said, with Max nodding in agreement.
"Yeah, it was definitely unfair how you were treated and that this Sasuke guy was shown special treatment. Our dad never shows special treatment to any trainers that challenge him, no matter who they are, even us if the time comes and we challenge him." Max added.
One thing Norman had told both his children was that if they chose to become Pokemon Trainers and the time came for them to battle, he wouldn't hold anything back.
While Naruto was stunned at how they spoke in his defense, he was also thankful for it.
"Thank you." Naruto said with a small smile.
"No problem, that's what friends are for right." Stated May, before pulling back and smiling at him.
Naruto nodded mutely as he and May looked at each other.
Though the moment was interrupted when Max suddenly popped up.
"What else is there in the Elemental Nations? Was it divided into regions, what about major cities and towns, what about technology?" Max asked rapidly.
Naruto and May immediately fell back with light blushes on their faces after realizing how close they had been, along with cursing their hormones.
Though May couldn't help but wonder, was she starting to develop feelings for Naruto?
'No, sure he's a really nice guy, but we still only met not that long ago. I'm sure that it's nothing, but teenage hormones' May thought with a shrug.
Oh, if only she knew.
"Naruto, what about that blue ball thing you used against that Tyranitar? What was that?" Max asked, wanting to know about that, since it looked similar to an Aura Sphere attack.
"That was my Rasengan, a Jutsu I create with my Chakra." Naruto answered.
"What's Chakra?" Asked May.
"Chakra is the energy that all Shinobi in the Elemental Nations use. With it, we can do any number of things; from manipulating the elements, create clones, walk on walls and water, and shape it into constructs, like my Rasengan." Naruto explained, with May and Max looking amazed at hearing what Chakra can do.
"Woah, it's like everyone having the same power as Pokémon." Max said in amazement.
While he's read of people that can access their Aura or possessing Psychic Abilities, with the most famous being the Kanto Gym Leader, Sabrina. But to hear about an entire land where people could do that was amazing. But he still had so many questions to ask, even more now.
*Later*
After Naruto had answered most of Max's questions about the Elemental Nations. Though there were some that Naruto couldn't answer given, he had never really paid much attention in Academy or really learned about the rest of the Elemental Nations, outside of the countries he visited on missions.
Now they were continuing on their way to Rustboro City, unfortunately the peace and quiet didn't last long.
"Ah man! This is so boring, where are all the Pokémon at? We haven't seen any since that Shiny Trevenant!" Max complained, since they haven't seen a single Pokémon since parting ways with Phoebe.
"Maybe that's why we haven't seen any, they were all scared away from the area by Trevenant." Suggested Naruto, given Trevenant had been a very strong Pokémon, and likely territorial as well, resulting in other Pokémon scattering.
Max just grumbled at that, having wanted to see what other Pokémon were in Petalburg Forest.
Suddenly there attention was pulled towards a moving bush, Max looking excited, hoping it was a Pokémon, while Naruto was ready to battle if the Pokémon was hostile, or if it was a trainer. Then out of the bush came a large raccoon-like, quadruped Pokémon with bristly, zigzag-patterned fur. It has stripes formed by alternating layers of cream and brown fur. It has a brown head with spiky ears and a black nose. A black, mask pattern surrounds its brown eyes. The upper half of its mouth is jagged, and when it is open, there are two pointed teeth in its lower jaw. Its feet have three claws and pink paw pads. Its forefeet are cream-colored, but the hind feet are brown. Its brush tail is spiky and bristly.
"What's that?" Asked May, tilting her head at seeing the large Pokémon.
"A Zigzagoon!" Max said in amazement.
"A Zigzagoon?" Naruto questioned, having remembered seeing a few near Professor Birch's lab, but they were much smaller.
They watched the large Zigzagoon dart between several bushes as it ran away.
"Awesome! I never knew wild Zigzagoon could get so big!" Max said in amazement at seeing such a large Zigzagoon, given most are much smaller.
"What do you mean Max?" May asked, since she wasn't aware of how big most Pokémon are supposed to be.
"The average Zigzagoon is only sixteen inches tall and weighs only eight pounds." Answered Max, while looking at his sister.
"Well that Zigzagoon was a lot bigger than sixteen inches." Stated Naruto.
They watched as the large Zigzagoon watched a group of more normal sized Zigzagoon.
Though suddenly, the large Zigzagoon stood up and the three saw someone's face below the head, much to their surprise. Even more so when suddenly the 'Zigzagoon' threw off its fur and showed a teenager around Naruto and May's age.
"It disguised itself as a human!" May said in shock, not realizing it had been a costume.
"You wanna try again, sis! It is a human!" Max said.
"Oh…I didn't Zigzagoon could evolve into humans." Said May, with Naruto and Max sweatdropping at the rather airheaded comment.
"Are we really related?" Max deadpanned.
"Alright Zigzagoon! Time to battle, Mudkip I choose-" the teen said, only for May and Max to interrupt him.
"See, a hundred percent human." Max said, annoyed that May needed proof it was a human.
"I need a closer look." May said, looking the guy over.
"Huh, guess you're right, he's definitely human." Stated May, with the teen getting annoyed and freaked out.
"Get off me! Of course, I'm human!" He exclaimed.
But before anything else could be said or done, all four of them heard growling. Looking, their eyes widened when they saw several dozen Zigzagoon coming out of bushes and from behind trees, all growling or glaring at them.
"That's, that's not normal." Max muttered, since Zigzagoon aren't normally aggressive, unless provoked, but these ones looked ready to attack at any moment.
"Zigzagoon." One of the Zigzagoon said as it stepped forward, with the four looking surprised at its appearance.
As rather than the normal cream and brown colored fur and brown eyes, this Zigzagoon had black and white fur, red eyes, and its tongue was hanging out of its mouth.
"That's even less normal." The stranger added, having never heard of a black and white Zigzagoon before.
"Zigzagoon!" The black and white Zigzagoon, likely the leader of the pack, cried and all of the Zigzagoon charged forward.
"Run!" Said Naruto.
The four immediately retreated, not stopping until they were sure that the Zigzagoon weren't pursuing them anymore.
Once they were safe, the stranger glared at May and Max.
"What's the big ideas?! You ruined my chance of catching a Zigzagoon! What's your problem?!" He demanded.
"Uh, we're very sorry." The siblings apologized, before they noticed the guys eyes had moved to look at their shorts.
"Hey, you guys are wearing knickers too! That's so cool, you're just like me!" He suddenly said in excitement.
"What?" They asked, not feeling uncomfortable from that.
"What do you mean they're the same as you?" Questioned Naruto, while looking at the guy warily.
"Who are you, anyway?" Asked May.
"What's my name? Truthfully, I have many names, like this!" He said, suddenly wearing the Zigzagoon costume, before switching to other Pokémon costumes until finally introducing himself as "Nicholai the knickerbocker".
'This guy has a few screws loose, doesn't he?' Naruto thought with wide eyes.
"Uh, what's a knickerbocker exactly?" Naruto asked, despite feeling he didn't want to know.
"That's the name for naturalist trainers, like myself. We thrive on communicating with nature, while exposing our knees! And obviously you're knickerbockers to, that's awesome! Tell me what're your names?" Nicholai asked, putting his hands on May and Max's shoulder, only adding to their discomfort.
"Uh, I'm May."
"I'm Max."
"And I'm Naruto Uzumaki."
"It's nice to meet you, Max and May. Those are two very good names for knickerbockers." Nicholai said, completely ignoring Naruto.
"Alright look, these aren't knickers, they're just plain shorts!" Said May, now getting annoyed with this guy.
"And I'm not going to be called a bocker." Max added.
"Now, now. There's no need to get your knickers in a bundle." Nicholai laughed, while May and Max had matching deadpan looks, while removing Nicholai's hand from their shoulders.
'Yeah, definitely crazy.' Naruto thought, before looking at the Zigzagoon costume.
"So, what exactly is the point of wearing those costumes? What, are they supposed to help catch Pokémon or something?" Naruto asked skeptically.
"That's right. I'm planning to challenge the Petalburg Gym Leader, but first I wanna catch a Zigzagoon first. They're usually seen in this part of the forest." Nicholai said.
"The Petalburg Gym, huh." May said.
"Then you'll be challenging our dad." Said Max, with Nicholai looking at them in surprise.
"Your dad?" He asked.
"Their dad, Norman, is the Petalburg Gym Leader." Naruto said.
"No kidding. Then how about I battle both of you. If you two are the children of a real Gym Leader, I'm sure battling you guys would be great practice for me. Besides that, I'd like to check out your skills as a trainer." Nicholai said.
"Maybe you should check something else out." May said, not really wanting to battle this guy as she's still a new trainer without any experience; plus, this guy really freaked her out.
"Don't be modest May, go on and show this guy." Said Max.
"Great come on, there's a field just up ahead." Nicholai said.
"Wait a second, I don't think-"
"What's the matter May, scared to battle me?" Nicholai asked with a mocking edge.
"Hey, I'm not scared! Fine, if you wanna battle, then let's do it!" May said.
'I really hope you know what you're doing, May.' Naruto thought as they went to the field.
*Later*
After reaching the field, May and Nicholai stood across from each other, ready to battle.
"Mudkip, let's go!" Nicholai said, sending out his Mudkip.
"Mudkip!"
"Huh, a Mudkip." Stated Naruto, while pulling out his Pokédex and scanning it.
"Mudkip, the Mud Fish Pokémon. Mudkip uses the sensitive fin on its head to take radar readings of its surroundings."
Naruto then sweatdropped when he saw Nicholai was now wearing a Mudkip costume.
'Why does my first battle have to be against such a weirdo?' May thought, before pulling out Torchic's Pokéball.
"Okay Torchic, I choose you!" May said, sending Torchic.
"Oh no, that's not good. Using a Fire-type against a Water-type." Max said, knowing Nicholai has the type advantage.
"Now Torchic, use Ember." Called out May.
"Torchic!" Torchic released a stream of embers at Mudkip
"Mudkip use Water Gun!" Nicholai commanded, with Mudkip shooting a stream of water that extinguished the Ember attack.
"Uh, Torchic now use Scratch!" May said
"No, don't get close!" Shouted Max, since that'd only make it easier for Torchic to be hit.
"Mudkip use Water Gun again!" Said Nicholai.
Mudkip shot another Water Gun at Torchic that impacted the Fire Pokémon and sent it flying back.
"Torchic!" May said, worried at seeing her Pokémon hit the ground.
Torchic tried getting up, only to collapse with swirls in it eyes, showing it fainted.
"Torchic, I'm so sorry." Said May, picking her Starter up.
"HAHA! Man, I can't believe a Gym Leaders daughter could be so weak! If that's the best you can do, then beating the Petalburg Gym will be a piece of cake!" Nicholai said, with May and Max getting angry at him insulting their father, before the former looked down in shame that her loss was reflecting badly on Norman's reputation as a Gym Leader.
Naruto also got angry at Nicholai not only insulting his friends, but Norman as well.
"Hey! This was May's first battle and she's only just started out as a trainer. Besides Norman is way stronger, I should know. I challenged him to an unofficial battle, and he beat me with just a Slakoth." Naruto said, glaring at Nicholai, who scoffed with an arrogant smirk.
"That just shows your even weaker than her, if you got taken out by a Slakoth of all Pokémon." Nicholai taunted, angering Naruto even further.
"Really, then why don't you battle me, only it'll be a two-on-two battle. Unless you're scared." Retorted Naruto.
"Fine, I have no problem getting another win. It'll be good practice before I capture that black and white Zigzagoon." Nicholai said, wanting to get the lead Zigzagoon, since it's likely the strongest of the pack.
Nodding, Naruto took May's place and sent out Zorua, who stared down Mudkip.
"Alright Zorua, use Leer!" Naruto said.
"Zor!" Zorua's eyes glowed red as it glared at Mudkip, who shivered as its defense went down.
"Mudkip use Water Gun!" Nicholai commanded, believing it'll be another easy won.
"Zorua, dodge it!" Said Naruto, with Zorua jumping into the air, causing the Water Gun to impact the ground and create a smoke screen.
When it cleared Nicholai smirked when he didn't see Zorua anywhere, believing Naruto was forfeiting.
"Zorua use Pursuit!" Naruto said, surprising Nicholai.
Even more so when it looked like Mudkip was hit by nothing, with the attack doing plenty of damage thanks Zorua using Leer and STAB, same-type attack bonus, with Mudkip just barely hanging on.
"Now finish it with Scratch!" Said Naruto.
Once again, Mudkip was hit by seemingly nothing and sent flying, before hitting the ground with swirls in its eyes.
"Mudkip! What's the big idea?!" Nicholai demanded, since he didn't see Zorua attack, nor could be able to move fast enough to not be seen.
Naruto smirked, before Zorua suddenly appeared in a shimmer of air with a mischievous laugh. He had Zorua use it's Illusion ability to turn itself invisible, sure it might be an underhanded tactic and one Naruto normally wouldn't use in a battle, but this guy really pissed him off.
"Hey, I call foul! You can't turn your Pokémon invisible like that, it's not fair!" Nicholai shouted.
"No, I just used Zorua's ability to my advantage, which is completely fair. But if you wanna go by that logic, then it wasn't fair you used Mudkip, a Water-type, against Torchic, a Fire-type." Naruto retorted with a smirk.
That shut Nicholai up, as he scowled, knowing he couldn't refute Naruto's point.
Recalling Mudkip, Nicholai pulled out his second Pokémon.
"Zangoose, let's go!" Nicholai said, releasing the Pokémon.
Zangoose is a bipedal Pokémon resembling a cross between a mongoose and cat. Despite being classified as a bipedal Pokémon, it usually walks on all fours. Its fur is mostly white with deep red, scar-like markings on the face, chest, and forepaws. It has two long, black claws on its forepaws, and pink paw pads on its hind feet. It has pink eyes, long ears, and a small red nose. When it opens its mouth, two sharp fangs can be seen on its upper jaw. There are small tufts of white fur on its shoulders, and it has a large, fluffy tail.
"A Zangoose." Naruto said scanning it with his Dex.
"Zangoose, the Cat Ferret Pokémon. Zangoose usually walks on all fours, but stands on its hind legs when angry. It's very quick and can easily dodge most enemy attacks."
"Okay then, Zorua return." Said Naruto, recalling Zorua and sent out Ralts.
"Ralts use Growl!" Naruto called out.
"Ralts!" Ralts opened its mouth and released a high-pitched growl that made Zangoose flinch.
"Zangoose use Quick Attack now!" Said Nicholai, wanting to deal some damage quickly, before Zangoose's attack can be lowered again.
"Zangoose!" Zangoose vanished in a burst of speed and reappeared, tackling Ralts, knocking it away, but remained standing.
"Ralts use Growl again, then follow up with Confusion!" Naruto said.
Once again, Ralts released a high-pitched growl, making Zangoose flinch again, before using Confusion to throw Zangoose back, though the Pokémon got back up.
"Alright, that's it! Zangoose use Swords Dance then use Crush Claw!" Said Nicholai, wanting to end this now.
"Zan!" Zangoose's claws glinted as it swiped them, before gained a blue-white glow and charged towards Ralts.
"Ralts, don't move." Said Naruto, surprising May and Max, who were worried, since if Ralts didn't dodge, then it'll be dealt a lot of damage.
Nicholai smirked, believing he was giving up and watched as Zangoose closed in on Ralts.
Though just as Zangoose reached Ralts and prepared to bring its claws down on it, Naruto called out.
"Ralts dodge now, then use Confusion and send Zangoose's attack back at it!"
Jumping back, Ralts used Confusion and focused it on Zangoose's arm, before sending the attack crashing into Zangoose's body.
"Zangoose!" Zangoose cried out at being hit by its own attack, which not only dealt large amounts of damage thanks to Swords Dance, but lowered Zangoose's own defense.
The result being Zangoose was launched back and crashed into a tree with swirls in its eyes.
"Alright!" Max cheered alongside May at seeing Naruto winning the battle.
"Zangoose!" Nicholai said in worry and disbelief at seeing his Pokémon be defeated in such a way.
Recalling Zangoose, Nicholai grabbed his bag and began running towards the nearest Pokémon Center to get them healed. Though Naruto threw one last comment to further rub salt into the wound.
"Hey, if Norman and I are so weak, what does that make you?!" Naruto asked mockingly.
With Nicholai gone, May and Max ran up to Naruto and started thanking him for defending their father and congratulating him on winning, May even going as far as to hug him.
Though when she pulled back, she looked down sadly. While she's happy to see Naruto take care of Nicholai, he had no problem beating him, while she just looked like a fool for not even knowing the basics of Pokémon types. Seeing her expression, Naruto smiled at her and put his hands on her shoulder.
"Hey don't worry, May. This was just your first battle and you're still new. It's expected for you to make mistakes, that way you'll improve for next time. In fact, during by Genin Exam, I got beaten by Kakashi again and again, and on my teams first mission outside the village, I froze up. But those losses helped me get stronger and better. So, don't think of it as a loss, but more of a learning experience. Besides, I know with time you'll be a great trainer." Naruto said with certainty.
This helped cheer May up, along with surprise her at Naruto believing she'll be a great trainer. It made her blush lightly, thankfully Naruto didn't notice as he went to return Ralts to its Pokéball. Unfortunately, Max did notice and couldn't resist the chance to tease his sister.
"So, should I call mom and dad to tell them about your new crush~" Max said teasingly, with May's face burning red as she glared at her brother.
"Sh-shut up Max!" May stuttered.
Max just laughed and ran to catch up to Naruto, with May preparing to follow, but stopped and put a hand over her heart.
'Do I really have a crush on Naruto?' May wondered
She'd be lying if she said Naruto wasn't a great guy, with protecting Torchic, seeing her as herself rather than the daughter of the Petalburg Gym Leader, and stood up for her and her father against Nicholai. Plus, May would admit he was rather good looking with that bad boy look of his, while still having a kind personality.
'Even if that is the case, it's just a crush. I'm sure it'll fade in time.' May thought as she shook her head, trying to reassure herself.
She then ran and caught up to Naruto and Max, with her brother giving her a teasing smirk, which she returned with a warning look.
"So Max, which way to Rustboro City?" Naruto asked, with the boy pulling out his PokéNav.
"Give me a sec. Uh, to get to Rustboro City we'd have to go that way… which is right through the Zigzagoons' territory." Max said with a gulp, not looking forward to seeing those aggressive Zigzagoon, with Naruto and May frowning at his words.
"What was with those Zigzagoon, anyway? Aren't they supposed to be docile unless provoked?" May asked, remembering what Max and Nicholai had said while they were running.
Naruto thought about it and remembered the black and white Zigzagoon that had moved to the front, likely the leader.
"What about that black and white Zigzagoon, it looked like the Alpha of the pack. Maybe if we beat it, the rest of the pack will disperse seeing their leader be defeated." Naruto suggested, with Max nodding in agreement after remembering the encounter.
"You're right, that Zigzagoon must have come in from a different area. And given the size of the pack, my guess is that it was formed by several smaller packs, with the black and white Zigzagoon having assumed dominance by defeating the other Alphas. It must be pretty strong to be able to keep them all in line, though I'm still wondering about its unusual coloring and appearance." Max muttered, knowing the Zigzagoon wasn't just a shiny variant, given its appearance was completely different, rather than just a different color.
"Well either way, we need to get pass them and we can't try battling them all at the same time. So, we'll just take out the leader." Naruto said, determined to not be stopped from getting to Rustboro City.
*Later*
They soon arrived back at the Zigzagoons' territory and immediately, all the Zigzagoon came out, with the black and white one being at the front again.
"Zigzag." The Zigzagoon growled threateningly.
"Zigzagoon, I challenge you to a Pokémon Battle." Naruto said, as he stepped forward and called out Ralts.
Accepting the challenge, the Zigzagoon called out to its pack, who immediately backed down to watch.
"Ralts use Confusion!" Naruto said, immediately going on the offensive.
But rather than be sent flying, Zigzagoon didn't even move or seemed to be effected by Ralt's attack.
'What? Why didn't work?' Naruto wondered.
Zigzagoon charged then toward Ralts and began crying out at it.
"Ralts dodge and use Growl!" Said Naruto, knowing he can only use Growl to lower Zigzagoon's attack given it seemed to be immune to Confusion.
"Ralts keeping dodging it's attacks and using Growl!" Naruto said.
This continued for a few moments, Ralts dodging Zigzagoon's attacks and using Growl to lower its attacks. Though it seemed Zigzagoon was adapting and getting better at seeing where Ralts would dodge to next before finally it managed to land a hit using Lick to injure Ralts and paralyze it.
"Ralts!" Naruto said, worried at seeing that his Pokémon couldn't move.
"R-Ralts." Ralts tried fighting against the paralysis, but couldn't.
"Zagoon!" Zigzagoon took to use Lick again, damaging Ralts further.
"Ralts return!" Naruto said, not wanting to see Ralts get hurt anymore; besides, it had already lowered Zigzagoon's attack by a good amount.
"Okay Zorua, lets finish this." Naruto said, while sending out his Starter Pokémon.
"Zorua use Pursuit!" Called Naruto.
"Zor-Zor-Zorua!" Zorua tackled Zigzagoon with Pursuit, but it appeared to not do much damage.
'That confirms it, this Zigzagoon must be a Dark-type, or at least part Dark-type. But that doesn't make any sense, Zigzagoon are supposed to be Normal-types. Just what kind of Pokémon are you?' Naruto wondered, before seeing Zigzagoon preparing to use Lick again.
"Zorua dodge it! Then use Leer and Scratch!" Naruto said.
Doing so, Zorua lowered Zigzagoon's defenses before using Scratch, finally doing more damage to the Pokémon.
The battle went on with Naruto using a combo of Leer and Scratch to damage Zigzagoon and using Zorua's Illusion ability to turn invisible, but Zigzagoon proved smart enough to sniff out Zorua, or be able to anticipate the sneak attacks.
Now though, Zigzagoon was just barely holding out, something Naruto had to admire since it was still going strong, despite looking to be on the edge of fainting. And that's why he knew Zigzagoon would make a great addition to his team.
"Alright, go Pokéball!" Said Naruto, throwing a Pokéball at Zigzagoon.
The Pokéball connected and sucked Zigzagoon in, before it began wobbling a few times, with the three watching in anticipation to see if it'd succeed or not. Finally, it gave off a ping sound, showing it was a successful capture.
"Yeah, I caught Zigzagoon!" Naruto cheered.
"Zor!" Zorua jumped up, despite feeling tired, since Zigzagoon did put up a hard fight.
Seeing their Alpha defeated, the rest of the Zigzagoon soon scattered, much to the trio's relief that they were right that they would scatter.
*Later*
Naruto, Max, and May stood in a Pokémon Center by the computers used to make video calls. After catching Zigzagoon, Naruto tried scanning Zigzagoon to see what was up with it and why it was different, but it only showed a regular Zigzagoon; he couldn't even see its gender, attacks, ability, and type.
It was confusing and lead to Naruto deciding to call Professor Birch to see if he knew anything, after he and May got their Pokémon healed and looked at.
Entering the Professor's number, Naruto waited a few moments before the screen lit up and showed Professor Birch.
"Oh Naruto. Good to see you, and May and Max as well." Birch said, seeing May and Max were with them.
"Hey Professor." Naruto greeted.
"So, how are you? I take it since Max is with you, you must have met Norman are in Petalburg, right?" Asked Birch.
"Mm-mm, we're actually heading for Rustboro City. But I wanted to ask you if you knew anything about strange looking Zigzagoon." Naruto said, with Birch humming in thought.
"Strange how?" Birch asked, wondering if it was just a shiny Zigzagoon or one with a unique personality.
"It doesn't look like a Zigzagoon or act like one, but it's definitely a Zigzagoon. Here look." Naruto said as he showed the image of his Zigzagoon, which he recorded on his Pokédex.
Seeing the black and white Zigzagoon, Birch was shocked and amazed at what he saw.
"My word, Naruto you managed to catch yourself a Galarian Zigzagoon! But it should be impossible to find one in Hoenn!" Birch said, shocked to see the Zigzagoon, while the trio just looked confused at what he meant by it being a "Galarian Zigzagoon".
"Uh, Professor what do you mean by Galarian?" Naruto asked, with Birch chuckling sheepishly, since he got ahead himself in his excitement.
"Right, sorry, I was just shocked. Anyway, what I mean by it being a Galarian Zigzagoon is that this form of Zigzagoon should only be found in the Galar region, a region very far from Hoenn. You see, it's a fairly new concept that is being studied by Pokémon Professors, called Regional Variants. As for what that is, it's that certain Pokémon change and adapt to an environment that they are not normally native to. For instance, your Zigzagoon is the Galarian variant, where it's appearance and personality has changed, becoming more violent tempered and always willing to start a fight. It's strange, as Regional Variants have so far been limited to only the Alola region and Galar region. Though there is a strong possibility that there might be some in other regions, also." Birch explained.
"Oh yeah! Now I remember, from that Alola region documentary that I was watching right before I met Naruto! It showed that an Alolan Vulpix, with it being an Ice-type instead of a Fire-type!" Said Max.
"That's right Max, Regional Variants of Pokémon could become an entirely different type to better suit the different environment. I can't guess how a Galarian Zigzagoon managed to find itself all the way in Hoenn, though. My best guess is it either stowed away on a ship or plane from Galar, or it was abandoned by its trainer." Birch said, while frowning the second guess.
"If you want, Naruto, I can update your Pokédex to record Zigzagoon's data, since it can only record Pokémon from the Hoenn, Johto, and Kanto regions." Birch offered.
"Yeah, if you could, thank you Professor." Naruto replied, before hooking his Pokédex up to the computer.
Birch typed a few things in from his end, before nodding.
"Okay, it's done, you should be able see Zigzagoon's information now, along with recording the information of other Regional Variants in the rare event you encounter anymore. If you need anything else, or have an update, feel free to call. See you guys!" Birch said, before the call ended.
"Cool, now to see what Zigzagoon can do." Said Naruto.
Galarian Zigzagoon:
Gender: Male
Typing: Dark/Normal
Ability: Quick Feet
Moves: Snarl, Leer and Lick
Seeing Zigzagoon's information only made Naruto even more sure that it'll be a great addition to his team.
"Okay, time to formally greet the new member." Naruto said, before releasing Zigzagoon from its Pokéball.
"Zagoon?" Zigzagoon looked at its new trainer, while tilting its head.
"Hey Zigzagoon, I just wanted us to officially meet each other. You were a really tough fighter, and I hope you'll help me, along with any other Pokémon that I catch. And I promise that I'll help you get stronger." Naruto said.
"Zig, Zigzagoon!" Zigzagoon smiled and held up its paw to its new trainer.
He and his Pokémon had earned Zigzagoon's respect for showing their strength and being able to defeat it. So Zigzagoon will work alongside its trainer and fellow Pokémon, and become even stronger.
"Glad to have you aboard, Zigzagoon." Said Naruto, while smiling, before returning Zigzagoon to its Pokéball.
So, what did you think, good. Yep Naruto has caught a Galarian Zigzagoon, which is one of the coolest Regional Variant forms along with Linoone and the new Obstagoon. We also met Nicholai and his very creepy obsession with knickerbockers, along with Naruto teaching him a lesson of not underestimating his opponents. Finally Naruto has learned about Regional Variants and update his Pokédex. Now onto the Omake!
Omake: The Dragon and the Toad
"Lance, you won't believe this kid and what he could do. He was able to swing around this giant sword like it was nothing, then able to take out a Tyranitar with this glowing blue ball, it looked kind of like an Aura Sphere. And it wasn't just his abilities, I just have the feeling that he has a lot of potential to be a great trainer. I'm sure that by the time he gets all eight badges, he could give even Steven a run for his money." Phoebe said over the computer to Lance, the Pokémon Champion of both the Johto and Kanto Regions.
She had contacted him after returning to the Elite Four Headquarters in Hoenn. The reason being she and Lance were members of the Pokémon G-men; in fact, all of the Elite Four members and Champions, both past and present, of all the Regions were members of the G-men.
In addition to being the strongest trainers of their given Region, they were also in charge of protecting the Pokémon world from any threats, such criminal organizations like Team Rocket in Kanto and Johto, or Teams Magma and Aqua here in Hoenn, though the latter organizations were still a mystery, or those who mistreat Pokémon. It was why most of the time, Champions or Elite Four members could be found wandering their Regions; not only to train, but also being on the lookout for threats.
Though Phoebe didn't consider Naruto a threat, or believed he'd ever mistreat Pokémon. But one thing they also kept an eye out for were trainers that they believe have the potential to one day challenge them. And Phoebe believed without a doubt that Naruto had the makings of a Champion.
As for why Phoebe was contacting Lance, rather than the Hoenn Region Champion, Steven Stone, it was because Lance is a senior member. Along with being known to always work in the field or go undercover more than any other Champion or Elite Four member.
"Hm, sounds like an interesting kid. Too bad he didn't come here to Johto, I would have liked to meet him. Thank you for the update Phoebe, and congrats on the Trevenant. If anything else comes up, let me know, okay." Lance said.
"Got it. See ya, Lance." Phoebe said as the call ended.
*Johto*
Lance leaned back in his seat after his call with Phoebe ended.
"You must be proud on how far Naruto has come." Lance commented to seemingly no one.
"Yeah, he seems to have changed and grown a lot since coming here." Said Jiraiya, stepping out of the shadows, while releasing a sigh of relief now that he knew Naruto was in possession of the Forbidden Scroll, given that's the only way he could know the Rasengan.
It was originally believed the scroll was stolen by Oto Forces during the Invasion, with it being a relief to know that Naruto actually took. Then again, Jiraiya would prefer it if anyone had the scroll, rather than it being back in Konoha. Since with Danzo being Hokage, he'd have unrestricted access to every Jutsu Konoha has ever recorded in that scroll.
Lance nodded, understanding the relief his friend had. While he may not know everything about the Elemental Nations, from what Jiraiya told him of Danzo, he'd make even Pokémon Poachers seem like saints in comparison.
As for how Lance and Jiraiya met, it was a rather funny story. He had been visiting his cousin/apprentice, Clair, when he saw Jiraiya peeking in the Hot Springs, Clair's private hot spring to be more precise. Both of them had then proceeded to have their Pokémon beat the hell out of Jiraiya, though Lance had to stop Clair from having her Kingdra use Hyper Beam.
After that, Lance got to know just who Jiraiya was and it eventually struck up a friendship.
Ironic how that worked out. Though he knew Clair still held a grudge and likely informed all the female Gym Leaders, Elite Four, Champions and Professors about Jiraiya and to have their Pokémon out and on guard, should he be in their Regions.
"Are you gonna go to Hoenn and meet him, and I mean as his godfather." Lance said.
Jiraiya looked hesitant, given he still doubted Naruto would want anything to do with anyone from the Elemental Nations, especially anyone from Konoha, even more so him. As considering the last time they saw each other, Jiraiya had just thrown him off a cliff and basically neglected being an actual godfather.
Seeing his hesitance, Lance spoke again.
"You don't have to and from what you told me; I doubt he'd want anything to do with you. But the least you could do is tell him the truth of who his parents are, giving him the closure of knowing what happened to them, rather than having him continue on never even knowing their names. And who knows, maybe he'll want to learn about them from someone who knew them personally." Lance said.
He may not know Naruto personally, but what he's heard, Lance believed the least Jiraiya could do is give him the closure of knowing who his parents and try to create a bond with him.
"Yeah, I see your point. I'll head to Hoenn to see if I can dig up anything on these Magma and Aqua Teams, and see what their goals are." Said Jiraiya.
He'll also try and find where Naruto will be when he arrives, but he'll hold off on approaching him, given what happened when he left Konoha might still be fresh in his mind, along with his anger. Seeing anyone from Konoha could potentially set him off.
The Toad Sage will give the kid some time to cool off and become more integrated in Server before approaching him.
What did you think? Yeah I made it so all Region Champions, Elite Four, and some Frontier Brains are members of the Pokémon G-Men, along with Lance having met Jiraiya, after he foolishly tried peeking on Clair, and now they work together with Jiraiya making plans to head to Hoenn. So, review if you liked go away if you didn't.
Storm out