Hey everyone! This chapter's title is a bit different. It's the only one based on a song from the Diamond and Pearl OST. I couldn't find a better song since there wasn't a cohesive theme in this chapter that I could link to any song. Just know that this is very much an exception, as from now on, chapters will have a proper song attached to them.
Onto other news, thank you for reading and being real OGs. Just so you know, I'll always thank you for reading, even if I would prefer to know what you guys liked (or disliked) with the chapter in the reviews. You don't have to go out of your way to do it just because I'm asking, but I would appreciate it.
To the guest reviewer, I appreciate your interest! While I can't spoil any future developments, the story doesn't focus on romantic relationships but on Pokémon battles and adventure.
To all of you who read, follow, favorite, and review this story, thank you all! Your interest in this story fuels my motivation. I hope you enjoy this chapter.
A kaleidoscope of emotions swirled within Akari as the first rays of dawn splashed vibrant hues across the sky. Excitement bubbled in her heart, a tangible force thrumming beneath her ribs. Yet, a sliver of apprehension snaked its way through the thrill, whispering cautionary tales in her ear.
She clutched the Prototype Poké ball- that she named the Proto Ball, that was nestled against her chest, the smooth wooden surface bringing reassurance to her mind. It was a constant reminder of the extraordinary events that had unfolded the previous day, forever etching themselves onto the tapestry of her life.
Reaching the familiar lab, Akari observed Professor Rowan and his assistants bustling about. Each figure moved with practised ease, their movements a well-rehearsed dance of scientific inquiry. As soon as he spotted her, Professor Rowan's face strode purposefully towards her.
"Good morning, Akari. We've finished preparing the starter Pokémon. They're ready for you to choose from," he informed her, gesturing towards a designated area.
"Good morning, Professor," Akari responded as she followed behind. "Before we go on, I have a question. Yesterday, the resemblance between your outfit and Kamado's attire caught my attention. May I ask if you have any connection to the man?"
Professor Rowan nodded thoughtfully. "While I couldn't definitively answer it yesterday, I delved into the records and confirmed your observation. Kamado, leader of the Galaxy Expedition Team, is indeed a distant ancestor of mine. However, the similarity in our attire remains a mystery. My own kimono was recently tailored, making its identical nature to his all the more perplexing."
As they neared where the lab housed the starter Pokémon, a sudden blur of orange caught their attention. A nimble Chimchar jumped in through the window, its fur the colour of a blazing sunset, darted out and leaped onto Akari's shoulder. Its gaze fixated on the Proto Ball pendant, it extended a playful finger towards it.
"Ah, it seems the escaped Chimchar has found you," Professor Rowan noted, recognizing the Pokémon. "It was unable to bond with any trainer and ultimately fled into the wilderness while you were in your Coma."
Akari's mind raced as she exchanged glances between the Professor and the inquisitive Chimchar. "Does that mean it witnessed me... catching it?" she inquired cautiously, avoiding mentioning Mew in case of unintended ears.
"It's likely," Professor Rowan deduced, observing Chimchar's behaviour. "However, based on its current enthusiasm, it appears to have found something compelling in you and desires to join you on your journey."
A pang of responsibility settled in Akari's chest as she glanced back at Chimchar. It continued to point at the Proto Ball, then shifted its finger to itself, followed by a determined nod. A decision loomed before her. Should she embrace this unexpected encounter and choose Chimchar as her starter, or would she enter the designated room and select another Pokémon?
Turning to Professor Rowan, Akari announced her choice with a newfound conviction, "I've made my decision. I choose Chimchar as my starter."
A wide smile stretched across Professor Rowan's face as he heard Akari's declaration. "Excellent choice, Akari," he boomed, his voice filled with pride. "Chimchar possesses a fiery spirit and immense potential. Take good care of each other."
••• ••• •••
Two months slipped by in a whirlwind of activity. Akari's days were filled with exploration, research, and the ever-present challenge of keeping up with Chimchar's boundless energy. The Pokémon had blossomed into a loyal companion, ever eager to lend a hand. While Chimchar readily assisted with outdoor tasks, her enthusiasm sometimes proved a bit much for indoor settings. With a playful nudge and a soft command, Akari would gently return her partner to its Poké Ball, promising more adventures to come.
The current project Akari is working on involves studying the ocean located on the sea of Route 219, just south of Sandgem Town, known for the phenomenon of water-type Pokémon evolving in groups during this specific time of year. Akari, equipped with a specialised camera requiring minimal light to capture footage of the ocean floor, set out on a small boat with Chimchar at her side. Due to the camera's limitations, the ideal time for capturing these photos and videos was either at night or just before dawn. Wanting to maintain a healthy sleep schedule, Akari decided to wake up early and set out with Chimchar's assistance.
Akari focused intently on the camera, her brow furrowed in concentration as Chimchar expertly navigated the small boat on the ocean currents. The pre-dawn stillness was broken by a sudden, sharp bump that jolted the vessel, sending Akari's specialised camera tipped precariously towards the water. With a startled gasp, she lunged forward, barely managing to snatch the camera back just before it plunged into the inky depths.
Glancing down, Akari's gaze fell upon a lone Magikarp breaching the surface. The crimson fish, its scales glinting in the faint morning light, seemed to be wearing an expression of playful amusement. "Do you think this is funny?" Akari questioned, her voice laced with frustration as she shook her fist at the mischievous fish. Chimchar, mirroring her actions, mimicked her display of anger.
In response, the Magikarp slapped the water with its tail, launching a spray of water towards their faces. Frustration bubbled up within Akari. "Enough of this!" she declared, wiping stray drops of water from her cheek. Turning to Chimchar, she issued a command, "Use Ember!" The fiery chimp responded promptly, unleashing a small stream of embers at the Magikarp's last known location.
A startled cry erupted from the water as the embers found their mark. The Magikarp, engulfed in a brief flash of flames, thrashed wildly to extinguish the fire. Once the flames subsided, the Magikarp reemerged, bearing singe marks of the attack, and glared back at them with newfound fury directed at Akari and Chimchar.
Fueled by anger, the Magikarp launched itself out of the water, aiming a tackle at Akari and Chimchar. They both reacted instinctively, dodging the attack as the Magikarp flew through the air between the two and landed back in the water on the other side of the boat with a splash.
Determined to subdue the aggressive fish, Akari formulated a plan. "Alright, Chimchar," she instructed, "if you can't lock on directly, use Swift to pinpoint its location!" With a burst of rapid fire, Chimchar launched a flurry of shimmering stars into the water around the boat. A series of muffled pops with bubbles bursting on the surface confirmed their success in locating the Magikarp.
Moments later, the Magikarp burst back onto the surface, its body covered in small bumps and red welts. Despite its injured state, its fiery spirit remained undimmed. This display of tenacity piqued Akari's interest.
"You've got spunk, I'll give you that," Akari declared, a hint of respect in her voice. "Rare to see such spirit in a Magikarp. How about you join us?" On a whim, she reached into her bag, retrieved a Dive Ball, and with a swift throw, launched it towards the surprised Magikarp.
Weakened from the encounter, the Magikarp offered minimal resistance as the red beam enveloped it, drawing it into the waiting Dive Ball. The ball bobbed momentarily before a satisfying click confirmed the capture. Akari, a hint of amusement playing on her lips, leaned down and retrieved the Dive Ball.
"Welcome aboard, Magikarp," she announced, holding the ball close. "Get ready for an exciting adventure. You'll fit right in."
With her new companion by her side, Akari diligently completed her research project on the ocean evolving Pokémon. She then turned her attention to Magikarp, eager to assess its well-being with. Despite the rough encounter, Magikarp's spirit remained unbroken, his fiery determination burning bright. Akari knew traditional training methods wouldn't be as effective for a water-type like Magikarp. Finding challengers in his natural environment would prove difficult to find, leading to long stretches between battles for the restless fish.
However, Akari persevered, seeking out alternative training methods and unconventional opponents. Though Magikarp took his fair share of bumps and bruises in these encounters, his fighting spirit never faltered.
••• ••• •••
A few more months have passed after catching Magikarp and Lucas had turned ten. Unfortunately, the lab experienced a temporary shortage of available starter Pokémon at the time. This meant Lucas had to wait for new Pokémon to be trained to an appropriate level before embarking on his own Pokémon journey. During a visit to Twinleaf Town, Lucas befriended a boy named Barry. Energetic to a fault, Barry possessed a constant sense of urgency that often left Akari drained. While Lucas initially found Barry's enthusiasm infectious, he eventually recognized the impact it had himself. However, their shared bond proved too strong to consider parting ways simply due to Barry's personality quirk.
Little did Akari anticipate that her next encounter with both Lucas and Barry would unfold amidst such unexpected circumstances.
Akari, alongside Professor Rowan, found herself assisting him around Lake Verity. In her hand, she carried his briefcase, its contents a mix of important documents and three Poké Balls – Professor Rowan's precaution against potential dangers. Though their project at the lake has reached its conclusion, lingering uncertainty hangs in the air.
"You mentioned the cave in the centre of the lake supposedly holds the location of the Legendary Pokémon, Mesprit," Professor Rowan spoke, his gaze fixed on the water's surface. "You also said you explored it previously and found nothing. Can you explain why you're still determined to find this Pokémon?"
"I seek a conversation with Mesprit," Akari replied, standing beside him on the shore. "Perhaps it can offer guidance regarding my purpose. After that, I have no intention of disturbing it further."
A sudden sound, emanating from a distance northwards along the coast, pierced the peaceful atmosphere. Their current vantage point offered no clear view of the source. With a subtle, deliberate movement, Akari lowered the briefcase and instinctively placed her hand on her hip, near her ever-present Poké Ball. Her steps were measured as she approached the sound's origin, Professor Rowan following closely behind in a display of unwavering support.
Just before reaching the source of the sound, an unexpected Pokémon appeared. A lone Starly, a typically docile grey and white bird Pokémon unless encountered in a group, burst out from the forested shoreline, its sharp cries echoing across the shore.
Instinct taking over, Akari swiftly released Chimchar. "Ember, before it gets too close!" she commanded. The fiery chimp let out a determined cry and unleashed a searing shower of embers from her mouth. The Starly, startled and singed, swerved erratically to avoid further damage, maintaining its aerial advantage above the water.
Suddenly, another commotion erupted from the direction where Professor Rowan had left the briefcase. Her eyes widened in surprise as she spotted Lucas and Barry, their backs pressed together in a defensive stance. Each was directing their respective Pokémon, a Turtwig and Piplup, in a fight against Starly of their own.
Without hesitation, Akari issued a new command to Chimchar. "Taunt it! Make it come close!" she directed, her voice laced with urgency.
As if understanding her intent perfectly, Chimchar raised a hand in a playful yet provocative gesture, waving her hand playfully as if to say 'Come at me!', mocking the Starly.
This tactic proved successful, as the enraged bird immediately abandoned its circling pattern and charged towards the fiery monkey. Seizing the opportunity, Akari issued a decisive command: "Finish it with Scratch!" Chimchar, anticipating the attack, sprinted towards the shore to match the Starly's descent. At the last moment, the nimble chimp executed a swift side-step, delivering a powerful scratch against the Starly's side while simultaneously avoiding a potentially damaging tackle. The startled Starly tumbled onto the beachfront with a frustrated chirp, before quickly taking flight and retreating into the forest.
Recognizing the end of the battle, Akari and Professor Rowan hurried towards Lucas and Barry, eager to offer aid. However, upon reaching them, they discovered that the second skirmish had also concluded, with Lucas and Barry successfully fending off their own Starly attackers. Relief washed over the group as they exchanged concerned glances, still puzzled by the cause of this unexpected encounter.
"What brings you two here, then?" Akari inquired, her gaze falling upon the open briefcase and the lone remaining Poké Ball inside. It was then she noticed a crucial detail: the Pokémon Lucas and Barry were now accompanied by were the missing Pokémon from the case.
A nervous exchange of glances passed between the two boys before Lucas spoke up, his voice revealing a hint of trepidation. "We were just heading to the lake to hang out when we saw you two and decided to say hi. But then, out of nowhere, those Starly attacked! We panicked and opened the case, hoping to find something to defend ourselves with. Luckily, these two came to our rescue," he concluded, his gaze softening as he looked at the Turtwig standing beside him.
Professor Rowan, impressed by their quick thinking and the evident bond forming between the boys and the Pokémon, interjected, "That was some impressive quick thinking, boys. It seems like they've already grown quite attached to you. Since you're both ten now, and considering the bond you've already formed, wouldn't you like to keep them as your starter Pokémon?"
The suggestion sparked an immediate reaction in both boys. Their eyes lit up with excitement, and they readily agreed. They were aware of their need to travel to Sandgem Town to obtain their Pokedex and officially register as Pokémon Trainers, but they were more than willing to begin their journeys.
"No need to wait!" Barry exclaimed, his voice bubbling over with enthusiasm. "Let's head there now!" He was already halfway down the path before Piplup, struggling to keep pace with his boundless energy, could barely waddle after him. A chuckle escaped Lucas and Akari's lips as they followed suit, the group making their way back to Sandgem Town.
Barry, ever the impatient soul, shouted from his spot outside the lab when he spotted the group, pointing an accusatory finger at them. "You guys are Slowpokes! I'd fine you right now if we don't get inside!"
Inside the lab, both Barry and Lucas received their official Trainer equipment - Pokédex, Poké Balls, and a starter pack of essential supplies. They exchanged a determined look, a sense of purpose settling in their eyes.
"There's no time like the present!" Barry declared, his eyes glued to his watch as his foot tapped an impatient rhythm against the ground. "I challenge you to a battle! If you don't accept within the next five seconds, I'll have to fine you! Five seconds to respond... five... four..."
Lucas, unable to resist his friend's contagious enthusiasm, chuckled in response. "Alright, alright!" he conceded. "Let's head out back and see what our new partners can do!" With an eagerness that marked the official beginning of their journeys, the two boys, their hearts pounding with excitement, rushed towards the back of the lab, eager to test their skills in their first Pokémon battle.
They positioned themselves on opposite sides of the designated field, their newly acquired Pokémon facing each other. Anticipation crackled in the air as both boys, their eyes filled with determination, prepared for the clash to come.
"Victory goes to the one who strikes first!" Barry declared, raring to go. "Piplup, use Hydro Pump!" He issued the command with an energetic finger pointing forward. However, Piplup, startled by the unfamiliar and incorrect move name, tripped and tumbled to the ground. The penguin Pokémon, flustered, scolded its trainer with a series of annoyed chirps and flipper waves.
Akari, noticing the unexpected delay, intervened. "Hold on a second, Barry," she called out. "Don't you know what moves your Pokémon can use? Consult your Pokédex! Seriously, how did you two manage to fight those Starly earlier?"
Lucas sheepishly rubbing the back of his head, confessed, "We just shouted 'attack!' or 'dodge!' We didn't give them any specific instructions."
Akari suppressed a chuckle, the corner of her lips twitching. She watched as the boys diligently studied their Pokédex, eager to gain a proper understanding of their new companions.
"Okay, done reading! Let's start the battle in... five! Four! Three! Two! One! Piplup, use Bubble!" Barry proclaimed as soon as he finished reading, his impatience evident. Lucas, meanwhile, lowered his Pokédex to focus on the fight, despite not having completed his own reading.
"Turtwig, block it with Withdraw!" Lucas called out strategically. Turtwig reacted swiftly, retracting into its sturdy shell, creating an impenetrable barrier that deflected the incoming bubbles, causing them to harmlessly bounce in different directions.
"Knock him out of that defence, Piplup! Use Tackle!" Barry stomped his foot in frustration at the failed attack.
"Match it, Turtwig! Use Tackle yourself!" Lucas countered, attempting a swift counteroffensive. Turtwig emerged from its shell and charged towards Piplup with equal force.
The two Pokémon collided in a head-on clash, attempting to overpower each other. However, the stalemate held, neither yielding an inch. As fatigue started to set in, they both retreated to a safe distance, catching their breath.
"Don't let their defensive tactics daunt you, Piplup!" Barry encouraged, pointing at Turtwig. "Use Peck to break through!"
Lucas didn't hesitate. "Don't let it get close, Leafage!" he countered, strategically keeping Turtwig at a safe range.
Piplup's beak glowed, extending into a sharp point as it charged towards Turtwig. However, its attack was intercepted by a barrage of leaves launched by Turtwig, sending the penguin Pokémon stumbling and yelping in pain. Piplup collapsed, its eyes spinning, unable to continue the battle.
"Piplup is unable to battle!" Akari declared, her voice ringing with excitement as she raised her hand in a triumphant gesture towards Lucas. A wave of elation washed over Lucas's face, and he erupted in cheers alongside his victorious Turtwig, who puffed out its chest proudly.
Meanwhile, Barry slumped dramatically to the ground, a picture of theatrical despair after his first official Pokémon battle. Akari couldn't help but wonder if this initial loss might be a humbling experience, helping to curb some of his usual brashness. Unfortunately, given Barry's energetic personality, she doubted a single defeat would have a lasting impact.
Once the battle concluded, both Pokémon were thoroughly examined for any injuries before being returned to their trainers. The incident, although unintentional, served as a valuable lesson in the importance of understanding and collaborating effectively with their new companions. The journey for both Lucas and Barry had just begun, filled with countless adventures and opportunities to learn and grow alongside their Pokémon partners.
••• ••• •••
Months flowed by since that battle, the events of the past leaving an undeniable mark on Lucas, particularly. He found himself reflecting deeply on the lessons learned, especially the importance of understanding and building trust with his Pokémon partner. While Barry, fueled by his characteristic enthusiasm, had eagerly embarked on his own Pokémon journey without delay, Lucas felt a different pull. His curiosity and the desire to learn more about Pokémon research drew him towards Akari.
Recognizing the genuine spark of curiosity in Lucas's eyes, Professor Rowan readily welcomed him into their research endeavours. While Lucas eventually planned to embark on his own journey and participate in the upcoming Sinnoh Conference a year away, he was content to contribute to Professor Rowan's research and learn alongside Akari for the time being. He understood that this year presented a valuable opportunity to learn, grow, and forge a strong bond with his Turtwig, all while contributing to meaningful research alongside Akari.
While that time passed, the landscape transformed into a winter wonderland. A blanket of snow covered the land, painting the world in shades of white and silver. Christmas had arrived, and the gift-giving festivities unfolded much as Akari anticipated. However, a single, unexpected present stood out from the rest. The attached note, written in the enigmatic Unown language, simply read: "Arceus told me to deliver this to you - Santa."
Surprised by the mysterious package for several reasons, Akari sought privacy to unveil its contents. "Santa is also real, go figure," she thought with a touch of disbelief as she carefully opened the package. Inside, she found a sleek white belt with Arceus' iconic golden four-point circle symbol as its buckle. This "Arc Belt," as the accompanying Unown instructions revealed, possessed remarkable abilities. Not only could it transform her attire at will, but it also held the ingenious capacity to store her Poké Balls regardless of her chosen outfit.
Eager to test its potential, Akari donned the Arc Belt. With a thought, she was instantly clad in her familiar lab coat. A wave of nostalgia washed over her as she transformed into outfits from her dreams, each one a vivid memory brought to life. Emboldened by this newfound versatility, she experimented further, morphing into attire she'd never considered before – a protective hazmat suit for hazardous environments, or roller skates for a speedy trek.
Gazing out her window towards the majestic peak of Mount Coronet, Akari silently expressed her gratitude for this extraordinary gift. A single, heartfelt wish drifted upwards, hoping to reach Arceus. Little did Akari know how valuable this gift would be.
••• ••• •••
Several days had ticked by since the new year's festivities, the air crisp and sharp with the lingering chill of winter. Akari, bundled in a thick woolen coat and mittens, stood amidst a frosted wonderland. Towering pines, their branches laden with heavy snow, formed a silent cathedral around her. Here, in the heart of the snow-covered Sinnoh Forest, Akari's research project had finally reached its successful conclusion. The thrill of discovery still buzzed beneath the surface as she meticulously documented her findings in a well-worn notebook, her breath puffing out in white wisps against the frigid air.
Lost in the quiet hum of scientific inquiry, Akari followed the well-trodden path alongside a burbling river that snaked its way back to Sandgem Town. Sunlight glinted off the water's surface, turning it into a shimmering ribbon reflecting the pale winter sky. Suddenly, a vibrant splash of green pierced the tranquil scene, shattering the peaceful silence. Akari stopped abruptly, her keen eyes catching a flash of movement in the water's churning current. There, amidst the rushing rapids, a lone Budew bobbed desperately. Its cries for help were faint, barely audible over the gurgling water, but they carried a note of raw panic that sent a jolt through Akari.
Without a moment's hesitation, Akari sprang into action. With a swift mental command, the familiar click of her Arc Belt echoed through the silent forest. In a blink, her bulky winter gear vanished, replaced by a streamlined swimsuit made of a special waterproof material – a practical choice for any aspiring Pokémon researcher who might find themselves unexpectedly wading into frigid waters. Simultaneously, she reached towards her belt, her fingers brushing against the familiar smooth surface of a Dive Ball. With a silent plea and a flick of her wrist, the Blue sphere pulsed with light, releasing Magikarp with a splash into the churning rapids.
"Magikarp, let's save Budew!" she cried, her voice barely audible over the roar of the water. Diving into the icy torrent, she clung to Magikarp's sturdy crown-fin as The Fish Pokémon, sensing the urgency of the situation, propelled itself forward with surprising power, its fins beating a frantic rhythm against the icy water rapids with an unexpected grace while Akari, braving the bone-chilling current, fought to keep her eyes open against the spray. She could tell Magikarp's sleek body sliced through the water, expertly guiding them towards the tiny Budew.
Together, they fought their way towards the tiny Budew, its emerald green form tossed like a cork in the raging water. Adrenaline surged through Akari's veins as she reached out, scooping the trembling Pokémon into her arms. Relief washed over her as she felt its frail body huddle against her chest. With Magikarp valiantly pushing against the current, they fought their way back to the shore.
Emerging from the water, Akari gasped for breath, her body chilled to the bone. With a shiver, she activated the Arc Belt once more. The familiar warmth enveloped her as her clothes transformed into a thick, winter coat, its thick fur offering a welcome respite from the cold. The rescued Budew, nestled securely in her arms, burrowed deeper into the comforting embrace, its fear slowly replaced by contentment.
Akari looked down at her loyal Magikarp, his gills flaring slightly. "Thank you, Magikarp," she whispered, her voice filled with admiration. Returning Magikarp to his Dive Ball, she released Chimchar, her fiery tail a comforting presence in the cold.
"Chimchar," Akari whispered gently, "Help us stay warm." The little Fire-type Pokémon puffed out her chest, her tail flame flaring brighter. A warm glow enveloped them, a comforting heat that chased away the lingering chill. Curled up safely in Akari's arms, the Budew drifted off to sleep, lulled by the gentle rhythm of the flickering flame.
They found a sheltered spot with minimal snow, where they decided to rest until the Budew awakened. Thankfully, with the sun still casting its golden rays, they didn't have to wait too long.
Budew stirred with a yawn, blinking at its surroundings. It realised it was nestled against something warm, a crackling fire flickering nearby. Akari noticed the Pokémon's awakening and greeted it with a soft smile.
"Hey Budew, how was your nap?" she inquired. Chimchar, her tail flame dimming slightly from the exertion of keeping them warm, turned her head curiously.
Budew looked around with a hint of confusion, then squirmed in Akari's arms, seemingly yearning for freedom. Understanding its desire, Akari gently placed the tiny Grass-type Pokémon on the ground near the comforting heat of Chimchar's flame.
"I wouldn't expect a Grass-type to be out in the cold like this," Akari said softly. "Would you like to join me on my journey instead?"
Akari reached into her bag and retrieved a Luxury Ball, extending it towards Budew. The little Pokémon considered the offer for a moment, the lingering chill in the air reminding it of the warmth it had just experienced. With a small nod of its bud-like head, Budew silently agreed.
Akari's face lit up with a smile as she gently pressed the Luxury Ball against Budew. The Pokémon was enveloped in a soft light before disappearing into the ball with a satisfying click. "Welcome to the team, Budew," she murmured, her voice filled with excitement as she held the Ball close.
With their new companion safely secured, Akari released Budew once more. Together, they set off towards Sandgem Town, Chimchar leading the way with its flickering tail with Budew just behind, their newfound friendship warming them against the winter chill.
AN
Hey everyone, this chapter has been a real doozy! It covers a whole six months, starting in July and ending in January. The thing is, it originally started as separate chapters, but each one felt too short to stand alone. So, I decided to merge them all together, but that meant dealing with some big jumps in time within the same chapter. I had the concept for chapter 1 and 4 to start with, and I found it hard to fill in the gap. Maybe once I finish volume 1 or 2 I can come back to improve on the first 3 chapters once I have more experience and ideas on how to make them better.
Fun fact, I cut out 3 Pokémon that were a part of the team to make a total of 9 before I added Mew, those 3 could evolve once. I also tried to swap out two of the party members after writing chapter 5, one would replace Budew with Protean Meowscarada, and another would be replaced by Hisuian Goodra. While they made the team stronger, they lacked the personality of what I planned, and overlapped with other Pokémon in the team too much.
Hopefully, despite the time skips, you all enjoyed how I handled things! Let me know what you think!
Tune in next week for Dreams Never End: Chapter 4 - Rockstar