Ok, so I am hoping to make this my longest chapter yet, so we will see how this goes.
In the last chapter, we finally met Serena, who doesn't know what she wants to do in the Pokemon world after giving up Rhyhorn racing. Junpei, Jerry, and Serena then decided to travel together. Jerry ran into a problem when her Bagon evolved into Shelgon and stopped listening to her! Will she be able to get Shelgon under control? Will Serena make a decision on what she will pursue?
ONWARDS
"Speech"
'Thoughts'
"PokeSpeech"
Telepathy Speech
THIRD PERSON POV
"Ok so I'd like to set some ground rules if we're going to be traveling together." Junpei said as he tried to create some boundaries for the group. The three had only talked occassionally during the travel to Camphrier Town, most of the conversating being done by Jerry and Serena. Junpei only ever spoke when he was asked a question about his journey or his goal etc.
"Sure, I can work with that!" Jerry said in her usual energetic tone.
"Mhm. Boundaries are good; we should always respect each other's lines." Serena added on.
"So Jerry, please keep yourself and your Gloom in check with the stench. I know you like it, but I don't, and chances are Serena doesn't either, so keep it to a minimum. If you want to do it, then make sure we are at least 2 miles away." Junpei exercised caution after that first encounter with Jerry and her Gloom.
"Ok, no problem! But when are we ever going to be 2 miles away from each other?" Jerry questioned.
"Hopefully a lot..." Junpei rolled his eyes
"Another rule is don't get in my personal space."
"And yeah, that's basically it, I guess."
Junpei tried to think of other ones, even ones that weren't necessarily even true, but ultimately couldn't.
"Sure thing, Junpei, those are easy enough!" Jerry exclaimed proudly.
"Ok. How long until we reach more civilization?" Junpei asked with no patience whatsoever.
"Junpei, we have only been walking for about an hour now; try to chill and relax a bit!" Jerry tried to suggest.
"Plus, we still have, I'd say," Jerry paused as she looked at the sky and then the surrounding forest.
"2 days until we reach Camphrier Town!"
Serena and Junpei both fell in comedic anime style.
"How can you say that so nonchalantly? And how can you even tell where we are?" Junpei asked, how could they even rely on her with no source of information like a map or something?
"Ah, it's quite straightforward, though perhaps not immediately obvious. I analyze the solar azimuth, which is basically the sun's position relative to us, and assess how the shadows align with the local flora. This allows me to approximate our geographic orientation and progression dynamically. By integrating the sun's trajectory with the relative shadow displacement among the surrounding trees, I can accurately estimate our current location and the time remaining to our destination, such as Camphrier Town. It's all about interpreting natural cues in a systematic way!" Jerry said, as if Junpei and Serena got any of that.
"What." Junpei said, in awe of her explanation, that his head couldn't comprehend and make sense of so much information all at once.
And Serena was basically a vegetable.
"So if you just inspect the azimu-"
"Jerry, that doesn't mean that you should explain it again." Junpei said, cutting her off.
"Oh sorry." Jerry apologized for ranting
Jerry chimed up again, "Serena, why don't you introduce your starter to us!"
"Oh yeah, good idea, Jerry!" Serena replied as she let out her starter from its pokeball.
The pokeball released a small, fox-like pokemon with yellow and red fur.
"Everyone, I'd like you all to meet my partner, Fennekin!" She said joyfully.
'That thing is so weak, I can tell. It has no power behind its eyes.' Junpei rolled his eyes at the site of the pokemon.
"Wow Serena its so cute! Does this mean we can have a battle now?!" Jerry said, putting some pressure on Serena.
"Well, I don't know," Serena started before she was cut off by Jerry reassuring her.
"Aw, come on, Serena! It will be fun, trust me!" Jerry added
She took her hand and began dragging her, hoping to find a clearing to battle in. Junpei followed begrudgingly with his hands in his pockets.
"Um Jerry." Serena tried to say, only to be cut off again.
"Almost there; don't worry, Serena!"
"Jerry stop!" Serena shouted as she broke free from Jerry's grasp.
Jerry stopped and turned to face Serena. "I don't want to battle." Serena said, "Awww, why not Serena?"
"Well, after seeing your guys battle, it just seemed like something I'm not really interested in." She explained while looking down at her Fennekin, who was following behind her. "I want to find something that both me and Fennekin can do and enjoy together."
"So I just don't think battling is for me, really." Serena concluded
"Oh, I'm so sorry, Serena; I had no idea you felt that way!" Jerry felt bad for trying to pressurize Serena into a battle she didn't even want to do. "I just get so worked up and so excited whenever I get the chance to have a battle!"
"You had no way of knowing Jerry, so please don't feel bad!" Serena said she was trying to make Jerry feel better.
The scene was interrupted by Jerry's stomach growling.
Jerry awkwardly laughed as she rubbed the back of her head.
"Do any of you two know how to cook by any chance?" Junpei asked, stressed they may die of starvation.
"I do, actually; don't get your hopes up, though I'm not a gourmet chef or anything!" Jerry said, which caused Junpei to sigh in relief.
"Well, as long as its good, we have nothing to worry about."
"Um, well, I'll try my best!" Jerry said it in her usual positive tone.
The group looked for a suitable place to cook and eat for a few minutes before settling in a small clearing. Jerry emptied her bag for her cooking utensils, and Junpei released his pokemon to aid in the process and help speed it up. "Ok, Deino and Rufflet, we have to help Jerry prepare the food, so do your best to help out." Junpei said to his two pokemon as they gave a cry that they understood.
Jerry appeared to be making a soup dish with various veggies and spices. Junpei couldn't lie; it looked very good.
The food was finished in half an hour, thanks to everyones help. Their setup included a table to eat on, another table where Jerry had made the food, some bowls for the pokemon and their food, and fold up chairs.
They all prayed before digging in, Junpei finished his portion in seconds. Junpei looked over at Jerry as he helped himself to more food, "This is pretty good Jerry. Thanks for cooking."
"No problem, Junpei! I'm happy you like it!" Jerry felt a sense of satisfaction in being able to assist her fellow travelers.
? POV
As we drift above the landscapes of Kalos in our iconic Team Rocket balloon, I can't help but feel today's mission needs a sprinkle of luck, something we've been sorely lacking lately. A pink haired individual peers through the binoculars, her eyes scanning the ground below with a mix of hope and impatience.
"I just want something to go right for a change," she mutters, her voice laced with frustration.
"And with a touch of elegance," I chime in, hoping to spot a rare gem among the commoners.
Meowth, ever the realist in our trio, retorts with a flick of his tail, "Quit your whining! Our luck's about to turn. I can feel it in my whiskers!"
Suddenly, as we float over a clearing, a small figure catches my eye. "Look there! What do we have?" I point excitedly, leaning over the edge of the basket.
Jessie grabs the binoculars, focusing on the spot I indicated. "There's something... but what is it?"
I quickly pull out one of my trusty Pokémon identification cards, comparing the silhouette below to the images on the card. As the creature becomes clearer, my heart starts to race. "It's a Riolu!" I exclaim, stars sparkling in my eyes. "Such a rare Pokémon! Our bad luck is over!"
"Think of what the boss would say!" Jessie adds, her eyes gleaming with ambition.
Meowth jumps up, his imagination running wild. "Imagine this," he starts, his voice taking on a dreamy quality. "The boss opens a gift box, and out pops Riolu, all shiny and blue. He's so impressed, he finally gives us a promotion, or better yet, a vacation!"
The scene shifts to Meowth's fantasy: Giovanni, sitting in his luxurious office, opens a beautifully wrapped gift box. Riolu jumps out, its aura shimmering. Giovanni's face lights up with delight. "I've got to hand it to Meowth and friends," he says with a grin. "Because of them, Team Rocket will rise to new heights. Promotions all around!"
Snapped back to reality by Meowth's grand vision, Jessie claps her hands together. "Let's catch that Riolu, and make our dreams come true!"
THIRD PERSON POV
With renewed fervor, the Team Rocket trio prepares their latest invention—a high-tech net shooter designed to capture any Pokémon without fail. As they lower the balloon for a better shot, James readies the device.
"Jessie, now!" he signals.
Jessie presses the button, and the net shoots towards the unsuspecting Riolu, capturing it in a tight embrace. Riolu struggles against its confines, attempting to use Quick Attack to escape, then Force Palm in a desperate bid to break free, but the net is specially engineered to resist Pokémon moves.
Feeling trapped and helpless, Riolu taps into its aura abilities, sending out a distress signal, hoping to connect with someone, anyone who could help.
Meanwhile, unaware of Riolu's plea, Team Rocket celebrates their apparent success. "This will surely please the boss," Jessie laughs, picturing their imminent promotion.
However, the aura doesn't go unnoticed. Far away, Junpei, a trainer with a strong connection to Pokémon, feels a sudden jolt, a call for help resonating through his very core.
"Something's not right," Junpei states, looking towards the source of the aura. "A Pokémon needs us."
Serena and Jerry, noticing Junpei's concern, rally to his side. "What's wrong?" Serena asks, her voice tinged with worry.
"I'm not sure, but I think it's a Pokémon in trouble," Junpei responds, his eyes narrowing with determination. "We need to help. This way lets go."
With that, Junpei leads the way, his friends following close behind, ready to tackle whatever challenge lies ahead and perhaps cross paths with Team Rocket's less-than-lucky scheme.
"Rufflet, can you scout ahead and see if you can spot anything peculiar?" Junpei asked the flying type.
Rufflet nodded and flew ahead above the trees.
Junpei didn't think to question the intuition he got, he just went and started moving. He could feel it was a plea for help and followed it without hesitation, though he didn't know how to describe how it happened. Could it be something similar to what happened in Santalune City?
Jerry's eyes shifted to Junpei, "Junpei, are you sure about this?"
"Yes, I am certain, just trust me."
"Look up there!" Serena pointed towards the sky a little further ahead, Rufflet was flying back towards the group. "Find anything, Rufflet?"
Rufflet pointed towards a clearing and the group set their sights to it.
They reached the clearing, and above was a big balloon with a meowth on it and a few people inside. Junpei saw it looked to be 2 people and another thing, perhaps a pokemon he couldn't make out. Junpei then looked below the balloon, which had netting that hung from the basket that held a pokemon inside it. "Its a Riolu." Junpei had read about Riolu, and how they used aura to communicate and connect with others. Junpei made the connection that the Riolu must've been the one that caused the intuition.
He shouted up towards the balloon, "Let Riolu go!"
"Prepare for trouble,"
"And make it doub-"
"Shut the fuck up holy shit." Junpei interrupted
Jessie's and James's faces flushed with anger. "Hey! No one interrupts our motto!" Jessie snapped, her usual poise slipping into rage.
"Especially not some rude little twerp!" James added, fuming.
Meowth was particularly offended, waving a paw dismissively at Junpei. "Kids these days got no respect for the fine art of villainy!"
"Enough of this," Junpei snapped, stepping forward, his patience worn thin. "Just release Riolu, or you'll regret it."
Serena and Jerry stood back, unsure how to react to Junpei's aggressive diplomacy but supportive nonetheless. The tension between the two groups crackled like a live wire in the cool air of the clearing.
Jessie sneered, pulling a remote from her belt. "You think you can just order us around? We're not releasing this Riolu. It's going to be a perfect gift for the boss!"
"Yeah, and you're just gonna stand there and watch us fly away," James taunted, confident in their escape plan.
Riolu continued to struggle within the net, its eyes meeting Junpei's. A silent plea for help resonated through the air, bolstering Junpei's resolve.
'If I pop the balloon, Riolu could get hurt.' Junpei tried to work out a way to get Riolu down safely.
"Rufflet use Wing Attack on the netting and cut Riolu loose!"
Rufflet's wings glowed white sharply as he sped through the netting, severing the fibers like mere paper, freeing it from the basket of the balloon. The netting fell as Junpei raced to catch Riolu, he dove and caught it just in time. "You ok?" The pokemon nodded in return. ' It wasn't the safest option, but it worked nonetheless,' Junpei thought. The group of teens turned to face the balloon now that Riolu was safe.
Jessie and James grinded their teeth before releasing their pokemon. "We were doing so good until you twerps showed up, get lost!" James called out Inkay as Jessie called out her Pumpkaboo.
"Use Dark Pulse!" Jessie commanded as James' Inkay used Psybeam
Serena and Jerry decided to assist, with Serena instructing Fennekin to use Ember, while Jerry commanded Gloom to use Acid.
The attacks collided, resulting in a smokescreen.
Junpei took advantage and commanded his pokemon, "Deino tackle, Rufflet Aerial Ace."
Deino hit Pumpkaboo, while Rufflet hit Inkay with Aerial Ace, which sent the pokemon flying backwards towards Team Rocket, knocking them over. "Alright, Deino, Take Down."
Deino quickly gained speed while gathering momentum.
"Uh-oh," James gulped as the trio hugged each other as the attack rapidly approached them.
The attack collided with the group of thieves and sent them flying into the air.
Jessie was the first to break the silence, her voice shrill with frustration, "This is utterly preposterous!"
James, equally dismayed, chimed in, "I can't believe we're being upstaged by twerps!"
Meowth, feeling the sting of repeated failures, added, "I'm getting a real bad case of deja vu here!"
Regaining her composure, Jessie clenched her fists, "Next time, we'll be prepared!"
James nodded vigorously, "And we'll have a motto that no one will dare interrupt!"
"Yeah, and maybe we'll finally get some respect!" Meowth piped up, hoping against hope.
The trio huddled together, their expressions a mix of resolve and exasperation. As the realization of their defeat sank in, they looked towards the sky, resigned to their fate.
All together, they proclaimed their inevitable departure, "Looks like Team Rocket's blasting off agaaaaain!"
As they disappeared into the distance, their voices echoed faintly, a testament to their recurring misfortune and undying persistence.
After that farce was dealt with, Junpei examined Riolu and scanned for any signs of injury to the pokemon.
"Ok, Riolu looks to be okay," Junpei announced. "What a relief! That was really something back there, Junpei!" Serena said it with a blush creeping onto her face.
Junpei looked at Serena after she said, "Yeah, it was."
Riolu nuzzled his leg, a gesture of profound thanks, Junpei couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth spread through him, something he was unfamiliar with and not used to experiencing. He was glad to have made a difference and saved Riolu.
Junpei kneeled down to Riolu's level and patted it on the head. "You be careful, ok, Riolu, take care of yourself, alright?"
Junpei and the others turned to walk off, leaving Riolu alone once again.
As the sun dipped below the tree line, Jerry asked Junpei, "Do you think maybe Riolu had a trainer?"
"I would guess so, its very unlikely to find a wild Riolu just wondering around. I'm sure it will find its trainer tomorrow morning."
The three of them and their pokemon made it back to camp with no further incident. As the sun had set, they decided to call it a night. Leaving their Pokémon outside, they allowed them to bask in the cold breeze of the serene, dark night.
RIOLU POV
Under the cover of night, the world around me seemed vast yet strangely intimate, with the stars gleaming like watchful eyes above. As I wandered alone, echoes of my past mingled with the threads of a new hope, weaving through my thoughts. I remembered little of my early days before I met the old trainer who had taken me in. His death had left me adrift, navigating a world that often felt cold and indifferent. Humans, I had learned, could be both kind and cruel, and I had chosen to keep my distance from them until today.
Yet, Junpei's actions earlier today had sparked something within me, a flicker of curiosity, perhaps, or even a tentative trust. His aura had spoken of sincerity and an unspoken depth of character that compelled me to understand more about him. Why was he different? Why did his presence feel like a beacon in the often murky interactions I had with humans?
Guided by a mixture of instinct and the faint traces of his aura, I found my way to their campsite. They were all asleep, scattered around a dying fire, their Pokémon resting nearby. I approached quietly, drawn by an inexplicable pull, but was stopped by a Pokémon, the Deino from earlier, who heard my approach and stirred.
"What are you doing here? Don't you have a trainer to get back to?" Junpeis pokemon asked, "Well, not really; that's kinda why I'm here...I was looking for Junpei."
"Why are you looking for Junpei?" Deino asked, its voice cautious yet tinged with curiosity.
"I'm drawn to him," I confessed, my words faltering as I tried to articulate feelings I barely understood myself. "The way he intervened today, showed me kindness. It's a rarity in humans from what I've seen."
Deino regarded me thoughtfully before responding. "Junpei is... different. He saved me too, in a way. I actually saved him first from a pack of Zangoose. He was injured, lost, and I just... helped. I didn't think much of humans either, until him."
"Is he always like this? Distant with others but kind to Pokemon?" I asked, eager to grasp more about the human who had inadvertently changed the course of my day.
Deino chuckled, a sound that seemed out of place in the quiet of the night. "Yeah, Junpei can be cold, especially with other humans. He's been through a lot, seen things that hardened him. But with Pokémon, he's different. He respects us, treats us as partners."
Hearing Deino's story stirred a sense of kinship within me. "I think... I would like to stay with him, if he would have me," I admitted quietly, voicing a desire that had been forming since I first sensed Junpei's distinct aura.
Deino looked towards where Junpei slept. "You should tell him in the morning. Be honest about your feelings and what you're looking for. He respects that. Though he's tough on the outside, he understands what it's like to feel lost, to need companionship."
"Why does he keep others at a distance?" I queried, seeking to understand the complexities of Junpei's guarded nature.
Deino's gaze drifted to the dying embers of the fire. "He's had his share of loss, of pain. Those experiences shaped him, made him wary of getting close. But he didn't build walls against Pokémon. With us, he lets his guard down a bit more."
As the night deepened and the camp lay quiet, I settled nearby, lost in thought. Deino's words resonated deeply, painting a picture of a human who, like me, had been molded by his experiences into someone cautious yet caring under the right circumstances. For the first time in a long while, I felt a pull towards a destiny intertwined with another—a path alongside Junpei that promised not just companionship, but perhaps a shared understanding and healing.
JUNPEI POV
The morning sun struck me with a ferocity I didn't know was possible through a slight opening in the tent. My eyes parted slightly as I mustered the strength to sit myself up from my makeshift tent. I exited the tent and stretched my limbs that had tightened in my slumber. I soon realized that I was the first one to get up, I checked my pokedex and it read that it was 6:26 AM.
I glanced to my right to find Deino stirring a bit, next to him I saw Rufflet and then lastly I saw Riolu...Wait Riolu? What?
I did a double take on that and confirmed what I had seen. Riolu was curled up fast asleep next to my two pokemon. 'What is it still doing here?'
I rubbed my eyes to ensure I wasn't still dreaming. It confirmed what I saw was the real thing, I walked over and shook Riolu awake. Its crimson eyes opened to look up at me, "Hey Riolu, what are you still doing here? You don't owe us anything, you know that right?"
Riolu then nodded at me, "Then why are you here with us?"
Riolu then looked to be concentrating, and suddenly I heard a high pitched voice ring throughout my mind.
"I wish to accompany you on your journey, whatever it may be. Please help me get stronger." That was the voice I heard, which I assumed to be Riolu's through using telepathy to communicate with me.
It took me a moment to catch my bearings on what just happened, 'A pokemon just spoke to me. Something many people dream of getting to experience.'
"It would be an honor to catch you Riolu. We can both get stronger together." I gave Riolu a positive smile, and with that Riolu nodded and stepped back as I tossed a pokeball up into the air. Riolu jumped and hit the button with its paw, dragging it into the small red and white ball. The ball dropped and ticked 3 times, and then a 4th with a ding, signaling that Riolu was caught. I smiled as I picked up the pokeball, I scanned the ball with my pokedex to learn more about Riolu.
Riolu
Gender: Female
Ability: Steadfast
Moves: Quick Attack, Counter, Work Up, Vaccum Wave
'Oh its female, if I remember correctly, most Riolu and Lucario are male.' I pieced together.
I noticed Deino had woken up and had been watching me and Riolu's interaction. "New member Deino." He nodded and gave me a cheerful cry.
I released Riolu from the pokeball and woke Rufflet, telling them it was time for a run. "We need to stay in tip top shape guys, Deino knows how much our next gym battle means to me."
"It will be against Grant, my childhood friend. So we all need to do our best and give him a battle he will never forget!"
1 hour later
I came to a stop by a tree to catch my breath and take a sip of water to cure my dehydration that had taken hold of me. "Hows everyone holding up?" I looked back to see my pokemon slightly fatigued, but more than that, they were motivated.
"How about some training now?" I asked, to which I received a resounding response.
Through the next 45 minutes, I pitted each of my pokemon against each other exploring their different and most powerful attacks. Riolu had caught my attention the most, she was surprisingly strong, and seemed familiar with battling.
I approached Riolu and knelt down to pat her on the head, "You're pretty strong already, I hope you know that."
"You have a lot of potential, I'll do my best to help you unlock all of that, but just know sometimes I may have to be tough on you in order to push you beyond your limits." I said as I continued rubbing her head.
She nodded, raising her paw with determination. That gesture was all the assurance I needed. I extended my fist, and Riolu gently bumped it with her own, a simple yet profound promise of shared effort. We exchanged smiles, a silent pact to grow stronger together.
We began to head back to camp, having worked up a sweat and also an appetite. However, I was ambushed by what appeared to be another trainer who caught my attention.
"Some strong pokemon you got there man!" A voice called out to me, I turned to where it came from to make eye contact with someone in the bushes behind me.
I caught a glimpse of the trainer, emerging from the bushes with a look that was a mix of confidence and sheepishness, perhaps due to the awkward manner of his introduction. He was a lanky teenager who was a little shorter than me, I assumed him to be at least 6'1. He had unkempt brown hair poking out in tufts that suggested a habitual neglect for grooming. His clothes were practical yet worn, featuring a faded blue jacket over a simple t-shirt, with cargo pants that had seen better days. His eyes, a sharp grey, had an earnestness that belied his otherwise disheveled appearance. This contrast gave Junpei a brief pause, sizing up an opponent who was clearly passionate about battling, despite his rough exterior.
"Sorry not interested creep, not sure what you were doing in the bushes back there, but I doubt I want to know." I waved him off before continuing back to camp.
"What, thats not-" He started before I cut in.
"I don't swing that way, good luck finding a mate."
"I just want to have a battle!"
I stopped and turned around, changing my mind, "Oh is that it? I supposed I could humor you with one."
I returned everyone to their pokeballs in preparation for the battle even though I intended on using Riolu.
'This could be good experience for Riolu, so why not?'
"Whats your name man?" The other trainer similar to my age asked me.
"I see no point in telling you my name over a miniscule battle like this." I chuckled to myself
"Ok whatever then," He shrugged.
"How does 1 on 1 sound? I'm kind of in a hurry." I suggested to the trainer to which he agreed.
"Riolu, stand by for battle." I said as I threw my pokeball, releasing the emanation pokemon.
"Come on out Mawile!" the trainer then released the deceiver pokemon, Mawile.
I was aware I had the disadvantage in this battle already, pitting Riolu against a Fairy type. I was still confident in Riolu's ability to win this battle, "Quick Attack Riolu."
Riolu sped off in Mawile's direction, it hit but Mawile quickly shook it off due to normal moves not being very effective on a steel and fairy type such as Mawile.
"Alright Mawile lets use Fairy Wind!"
Mawile then began to create a pink wind from swinging its jaw in a circle motion above its head. Mawile then shot the move towards Riolu, I then commanded Riolu to use Vaccum Wave to counter it.
She began to spin her arms rapidly in front of her, creating a vaccuum of air, protecting Riolu from the incoming super effective attack. The two attacks persisted before settling, indicating their evenly distributed power.
"Lets change that shall we? Riolu use Work Up." Riolu then had a red glow take over her body as she cried out, which doubled her own attack power.
"Now use Vaccuum Wave."
The move once again shot towards Mawile, "Mawile, Fairy Wind again!"
The two moves collided and Fairy Wind was overcome by Vaccuum Wave, cutting through it easily and hitting Mawile. Mawile fell to the ground, weak and having already taken a good amount of damage.
"Do you not know how Work Up works? Riolu doubled its own attack and special attack power. When Vaccuum Wave and Fairy Wind first clashed, they were even. After Work Up, it would obviously get the better of Fairy Wind. Can't expect anything less from a weak trainer I guess."
The trainer chose to ignore me and shouted to his Mawile "Can you keep going Mawile?!"
"Maw!" Mawile cried out as it fought to its feet.
"Alright Mawile lets go then! Use Crunch!" Mawile's large jaw's teeth grew in size and became sharper as it jumped, with intent of clamping down on Riolu.
I smiled as soon as he said that, I knew I had won this battle.
"Let it hit you Riolu, trust me."
Riolu stood there as Mawile closed its jaws on her arm. She winced in pain but withstood it, "Now use Counter"
The trainer's eyes widened in horror as Riolu's arm glowed green and she pulled her fist back.
"Mawile get out of there!" He tried to warn to no avail as Riolu punched Mawile straight in the face, scoring a direct hit with massive amounts of power. Mawile flew backwards towards her trainer and skidded across the ground, kicking up dirt. Mawile cried out in defeat as it was showed with swirls in its eyes "Maaawile"
"Job well done Riolu." Riolu raised its fist towards me as I returned her to her pokeball, I smiled, happy that Riolu decided to come along. My stomach growled, reminding me of what I was supposed to be doing right now, 'Guess I got caught up in the heat of battle'
I had little respect for people who couldn't give me an actual good battle. Out of curiosity and strategy I asked if the kid planned on entering the Kalos League. "Hey are you going to enter the Kalos League by any chance?"
"Yes I am actually." The trainer responded while returning his knocked out Mawile to its pokeball. "So am I, how many badges do you have?" I asked him, "I have 2." he said while pulling out his badge case as proof. I saw he did have two badges and all I could think was, 'Really Grant, you let this kid beat you?'
"So whats your name?" I decided to ask, "Huh? Oh its Reese. What about you?"
"I'm Junpei, now make sure to get stronger so we can have a better battle next time." I said to him, kind of looking forward to seeing how he would progress as a trainer, but only a little bit.
"Is that supposed to be motivating?" He asked me.
"No, I could care less if I never see you again, and in fact I would prefer that. Now fuck off."
The trainer Reese then ran back where he came, presumably in the direction of the pokemon center.
I asked for his name so I can keep track of the trainers I meet that are competing in the Kalos League. That way I can make note of each of their pokemon, and devise the best possible strategy to defeat each of them in the most efficient way possible.
Walking back to camp with Riolu's pokeball on my belt brought a subtle sense of accomplishment. Though our partnership was fresh, the battle against a Fairy-type had already shown her capabilities, and not just any capabilities, but those honed under duress. She had triumphed, a testament not merely to her strength but to her resilience. Riolu had likely been fatigued from the rigorous sparring and the sprints we had done earlier, but if she was, she didn't show it. I appreciated that stoicism; it mirrored my own.
The woods seemed quieter now, the rustling leaves a soft applause to Riolu's earlier performance. As I emerged from the tree line, the camp came into view, and I noticed Serena and Jerry bustling around the campsite, seemingly preparing for the day ahead.
"You took your time didn't you?" Jerry asked, her tone a mixture of relief and irritation as she noticed me approaching. "The food's getting cold, and we were about to start packing up."
"Geez, sorry mom" I said sarcastically as I rolled my eyes.
Serena glanced over, her expression softening, a slight blush coloring her cheeks when our eyes met. "We were worried, you know. You disappeared without saying anything."
I shrugged, maintaining my cool head. "Just had a quick battle," I said, dismissing their concern with a wave of my hand. Inside, however, I appreciated their worry, though I'd never admit it out loud. It was strange, this feeling of being part of a group that cared, not just about their Pokémon, but about each other too.
We gathered around the small makeshift table Jerry had set up, and I took my place silently, focusing on refueling my body rather than engaging in much conversation. The food, simple but hearty, was a good change from the usual fare I managed on my own. Riolu, now out of her Pokéball, joined Deino and Rufflet, nibbling on her portion with quiet energy.
"Wait, what is Riolu doing here?" Jerry asked with her mouth slightly agape. I calmed her worry, "Oh, shes my pokemon now, she came back to camp, and asked me to catch her." Jerry, however, had more questions, "Wait, she asked you? What do you mean she "ASKED" you?" I took a bite of my food before answering, "Yes, she asked me through telepathy."
I was already growing tired of the conversation, "Let me gauge her strength, let's battle!"
"No." Jerry let out a small pout after I said that. Not much was said after that.
As breakfast concluded, Jerry was the first to break the lingering silence. "Alright, we should get moving. We still have a good day's travel ahead of us if we want to reach Camphrier Town by tomorrow."
"Actually," Serena interjected, her voice hesitant as she caught my gaze again, her blush deepening slightly. "I was thinking, maybe we could make a small detour? I heard there's a beautiful spot not far from here, Parfum Palace. It might be nice to see something different, maybe even relaxing?"
The suggestion hung in the air, and I considered it for a moment. Detours weren't usually my style—I preferred direct routes, efficient and straightforward. But looking at Serena, seeing her hopeful expression, and knowing it might provide a good opportunity for Riolu and the others to explore and train, I found myself nodding. "Sure, why not? It could be good for the Pokémon."
Jerry clapped her hands, delighted by the spontaneous change in plans. "That's settled then! Parfum Palace, here we come!
We packed up our camp quickly, the mood lightened by the prospect of visiting the palace. As we walked, I noticed Serena stealing glances my way, her curiosity seemingly piqued by my agreement to the detour. It was unusual for me to relent so easily, I knew, but something about her enthusiasm was contagious, even if I kept my responses measured and my demeanor cool.
The path to Parfum Palace took us through a dense part of the forest, the canopy overhead casting dappled shadows on the ground. Riolu walked in stride beside me, her presence now a constant yet comforting reminder of the day's success. Occasionally, she looked up at me, perhaps seeking reassurance or just making sure I was still there, a new experience for me, feeling responsible for another creature's confidence.
As we approached the edge of the forest, the trees began to thin, and the grandeur of Parfum Palace emerged in the distance, its walls gleaming under the midday sun. The sight was admittedly impressive, and I could understand Serena's interest in the place. It wasn't just a detour; it was a chance to experience something new, to give the Pokémon a break from the constant travel and battles.
However, as we neared the palace, a disturbance caught our attention. A crowd was gathered, and the murmur of many voices carried across the wind. As we drew closer, it became clear there was some sort of conflict at the gates. Curious, and ever-ready to face whatever challenge lay ahead, I quickened my pace, Riolu at my heels, ready to discover what awaited us at Parfum Palace.
As we approached the imposing gates of Parfum Palace, the scene before us unfolded into a spectacle of public dissent. People of all ages clustered around, waving banners and chanting slogans that decried the destruction of historical landmarks. The air was thick with tension, underscored by the determined voices of the protesters.
"What's all this about?" Serena whispered, tugging at my sleeve as we navigated closer to the heart of the crowd.
"It looks like they're protesting against some kind of redevelopment plan," Jerry observed, nodding towards a banner that read "Save Our Heritage!"
Intrigued and somewhat alarmed by the prospect of a historical site being torn down for commercial development, I decided we needed more information. Spotting a man who appeared to be leading the chant, I nudged my way through the crowd to speak with him.
"Excuse me," I said as I reached him, "can you tell us what's happening here?"
The man, middle-aged and wearing a look of weary determination, glanced at me before responding. "The owner of Parfum Palace wants to demolish part of the ancient gardens to make way for a luxury hotel. Says it'll bring more tourists and money to the area, but at what cost? We're losing our history!"
The explanation struck a chord within me. Riolu, sensing my growing unease, nudged my hand with her head, her eyes sharp and focused.
"We need to speak to the owner," I said decisively, more to myself than to my companions. "Maybe there's a misunderstanding, or maybe they can be convinced to reconsider."
Serena looked uncertain but nodded in agreement, "It's worth a try. Let's find a way inside."
Jerry grinned, her usual enthusiasm bubbling up, "Sneaky style, I like it!"
Finding a side entrance less guarded than the main gates, we slipped through with Riolu leading, her senses attuned to any sign of trouble. The palace interior was a maze of opulence, with gilded mirrors and lavish tapestries that spoke of centuries past—a stark contrast to the modern conflict unfolding outside.
Navigating through the corridors, we finally came upon a large, ornately carved door, behind which, we presumed, the owner might be found. Just as I reached out to knock, the door swung open, revealing a sharply dressed woman in her forties, her expression one of mild annoyance.
"Can I help you?" she asked, eyeing us suspiciously.
"We heard about the redevelopment plans," I started, my tone neutral yet firm. "We believe there's significant historical value in what you're planning to remove. Is there room for negotiation?"
The woman sighed, a trace of fatigue crossing her features. "You're not the first to bring this up today. Come in, let's talk."
Inside her office, the walls lined with ancient portraits and modern accolades, she offered us seats and got straight to the point. "The truth is more complicated than the protesters understand. This palace doesn't generate enough revenue to maintain itself. Without the funds from the hotel project, we may have to close entirely."
Her admission added layers to the issue that none of us had considered. Serena exchanged a worried glance with me, her earlier resolve mingling with newfound doubt.
"But isn't there another way? A way to preserve the gardens and still improve revenue?" Jerry asked, her voice hopeful.
The owner paused, considering. "There might be one possibility," she conceded slowly. "There's a rumored treasure hidden within the palace grounds, said to be of immense value. No one has found it, but if it's there and could be recovered, it might cover the costs without needing to destroy anything."
The idea sparked immediate interest. "A treasure hunt," I mused aloud, more to myself than to anyone else. Riolu perked up, as if excited by the prospect.
"If we help find this treasure, would you consider halting the construction plans?" I proposed, my gaze locking with the owner's.
She studied me for a moment before nodding. "Yes, I would. But understand, many have looked and none have succeeded."
"We'll find it," I declared, the challenge igniting a fire within me. Riolu vibrated with eagerness beside me, ready to embark on this new quest.
As we left the owner's office, the setting sun cast long shadows through the high windows of the palace, turning our silhouettes into elongated specters of determination. With a new purpose, we prepared to dive into the history and mysteries of Parfum Palace, hoping to uncover its secrets and save its legacy.
With a new mission at hand, the atmosphere among us shifted from mere curiosity to charged anticipation. Riolu, energized by the unfolding adventure, paced eagerly at my side as we began our exploration of Parfum Palace's sprawling gardens.
The gardens themselves were a labyrinth of sculpted hedges and ancient statuary, each pathway and arch telling stories of bygone eras. "Think about it," Jerry mused aloud as we navigated through a particularly dense thicket of roses, "this place might hold secrets from centuries ago, hidden right under our noses."
Serena, usually more reserved, couldn't hide her excitement either. Her eyes lit up as she traced the intricate carvings on a nearby fountain, depicting a scene of mythological creatures in battle. "It's like we're part of the history now," she said, a hint of awe in her voice.
As dusk began to settle, the shadows lengthening across the manicured lawns, our search took on a more urgent pace. We split up to cover more ground, agreeing to signal each other if anything significant was found.
I led Riolu along a neglected part of the garden, overgrown and wild compared to the pristine conditions elsewhere. The air was thick with the scent of moss and old earth, a stark contrast to the controlled beauty of the main paths. Riolu's ears twitched at every rustle and snap underfoot, her body tense with alertness.
"Keep your senses sharp, Riolu," I whispered, my voice low. "Whatever's hidden here, it's kept its secret for a long time."
Suddenly, Riolu stopped, her stance rigid as she stared intently at a patch of overgrown ivy. Following her gaze, I knelt down and began to pull away the thick vines. Beneath the ivy, a small, ornate door with a rusted iron handle revealed itself, almost completely camouflaged against the stone wall.
"This could be something," I murmured, more to myself than to Riolu. With a glance around to ensure we were still unobserved, I grasped the handle and pulled. The door resisted at first, then gave way with a creak that echoed ominously through the quiet garden.
Beyond the door lay a narrow tunnel, descending into darkness. I hesitated, aware of the potential dangers, yet the thrill of discovery urged me forward. Riolu, ever my brave companion, stepped ahead confidently, her body glowing faintly with the aura that was uniquely hers.
"We need to be careful, but we can't turn back now," I stated, pulling out a flashlight to light our way. The beam cut through the darkness, revealing damp stone walls and a floor covered in a thin layer of dust, undisturbed for years.
As we ventured deeper into the tunnel, the air grew cooler, and the faint sound of dripping water echoed around us. It was a world apart from the opulent gardens above, a hidden vein running through the heart of Parfum Palace.
Minutes turned into hours as we followed the winding tunnel, every turn and dip increasing the tension in my chest. Then, at what felt like the deepest point, the tunnel opened into a small chamber. The beam of my flashlight swept across the room, catching on something that made my heart skip a beat.
In the center of the chamber, half-buried under debris, lay a chest—old, but clearly once finely crafted, its wood bound with iron now tarnished with age.
"Riolu, we found it," I breathed out, a mix of disbelief and triumph in my voice. Riolu barked softly, her eyes reflecting the flicker of my flashlight as she approached the chest.
Carefully, I cleared the debris from around the chest and inspected the lock. It was sturdy, but the years had not been kind to it. With a bit of effort and the aid of some tools from my pack, the lock gave, and the lid creaked open.
Inside, the glow of gold and the shimmer of jewels met our eyes. Necklaces, rings, coins—all bearing the craftsmanship of a bygone era, their worth beyond simple monetary value. They were relics of history, treasures of a past that Parfum Palace had guarded silently through the centuries.
With the treasure secured, we retraced our steps back through the tunnel, the weight of our discovery lending speed to our steps. As we emerged back into the night air of the garden, the reality of what we had found began to sink in.
"We did it, Riolu. Not just for the thrill, but to save this place," I said, looking back at the facade of Parfum Palace, now bathed in the soft light of the moon. The sense of accomplishment was profound, but so was the connection I felt to the history we had just unearthed.
I found Jerry and Serena, and alerted them to what I had found. They were shocked that I had found something most had failed to find so easily.
We presented our findings to the owner right away, she nearly fainted and thanked us profusely for our help. "Thanks to you kind folks, we can now preserve the rich history of our ancient gardens and keep the public happy!"
"We were glad to help." Serena spoke for all of us.
"Well, its pretty late, you three, as a token of my appreciation, you all can stay the night here. Its the least I can do after all."
I bowed to her and said, "We are extremely grateful, ma'am. thank you very much."
I was happy to not be sleeping in my sleeping bag for once, the bed felt almost too luxurious, I mean, what guest room has a king-size bed? I wasn't complaining, however. I closed my eyes, hoping tomorrow we would finally reach Cyllage City, my thoughts shifted to Grant and our gym battle before I drifted off.
The next day arrived, and we expressed our gratitude to the owner for her hospitality, while she reciprocated, thanking us for our assistance in preserving their historic gardens. As we resumed our journey to Cyllage City, my anticipation grew; I was eager to challenge Grant in a battle to demonstrate my strength.
Throughout the path to Cyllage, Riolu stayed by my side, I felt extremely comfortable with her being outside her pokeball and walking in stride. Not a sense of security, but of friendship and bonds being forged, is what I felt. A strong bond and a sense of connection are needed for a Riolu to evolve into Lucario, yet in that moment, that wasn't what I was thinking about at all.
We finally reached route 7 after a long detour to Parfum Palace, we came across a Pokemon Center and I thought it was time everyone got checked out to ensure they were in good health. I handed all my pokemon over to Nurse Joy and went to the waiting area with Serena and Jerry.
"Say, Junpei, Jerry, do you guys know about the Battle Chateau?"
Jerry perked up upon hearing those words, "I haven't, but it sure sounds intense! Tell me more, please!" She looked creepy like that, she had stars in her eyes as she pressed Serena for more information.
I already knew of the Battle Chateau from Grant, he talked about it a lot. Apparently, its a place where trainers can battle each other to gain noble titles. Each time you wish to have a battle, you must battle someone who is the same rank as you, and then you get points in order to increase your rank and title. If I remember them correctly, the ranks from worst to best was:
Baron/Baroness
Viscount/Viscountess
Earl/Countess
Marquis/Marchioness
Duke/Duchess
Grand Duchess/Grand Duchess
'Now that I think about it, the Battle Chateau probably holds from pretty strong trainers.' I thought, playing with the idea of going there to face some competent trainers for once. Meanwhile, Serena was telling Jerry more about the Chateau herself. Jerry suddenly interrupted Serena, "Ok! I've heard enough, we have to go there right now."
Serena then brought good news to Jerry, "Well, its actually on the way to Cyllage City and not too far from the Pokemon Center we are at now."
"Really? Then what are we waiting for, theres no time to waste." Jerry got up in a hurry.
"Our pokemon. We are waiting for our pokemon." I said as if it was obvious, because it was.
"Every second wasted here, is another second wasted getting to battle someone at the Battle Chateau."
I facepalmed, "Yea well, if your pokemon aren't healthy, then how the hell are you going to win a battle?"
Jerry then calmed down for a little bit, until Nurse Joy came back with all our pokemon, she told us that all are pokemon are in tip-top shape.
Jerry then dragged us out of the Pokemon Center and ran us comically fast all the way to the Battle Chateau. We arrived and Jerry didn't seem to be out of breath at all, to which I just shook my head.
We walked inside and were greeted with a maid welcoming us to the castle, the whole place had a very historical vibe to it. I could tell it had plenty of history behind it, and was established long ago. The maid then took us to where all of the "Knights" were waiting, all trainers at the Battle Chateau are referred to as Knights instead of trainers.
Serena then snapped me out of my thoughts.
SERENA POV
The opulent lounge of the Battle Chateau hummed with the low murmur of voices and the rustle of luxurious, neatly decorated robes corresponding to each trainer's rank. Standing next to Junpei, I was struck not only by the grandeur of the surroundings but also by his imposing figure, which seemed even more pronounced in this environment of high stakes and high society.
"Junpei," I ventured, curiosity piqued as I watched the various Knights mingling in their white robes for Barons and richer colors for higher ranks, "are you going to try to become a Duke here? It sounds like a prestigious title."
He glanced down at me, a slight smirk dancing on his lips. "I'm not here for titles, Serena. They're meaningless to me. I'm just here to get stronger," he responded, his tone dismissive of the pomp around us. His indifference to the prestige offered by the Chateau contrasted sharply with the passion of the other trainers. "I can probably beat a lot of these amateurs without much effort."
His confidence, bordering on arrogance, should have been off-putting, yet it only deepened my intrigue. He towered over me, adding a physical emphasis to the aura he exuded. It wasn't just his battling ability that caught my attention, it was also the fleeting glimpses of gentleness with his Pokémon, like this morning with Riolu, that really drew me in. I had gotten a chance to see it when I woke up and saw his gentleness towards his new Riolu. They barely knew each other yet he cared for her as if they carried hundreds of memories together. Taking in the sight made my heart beat out of chest.
Feeling emboldened, I admitted, "I'd really like to see you battle, Junpei." The confession made my cheeks warm; it wasn't typical for me to speak so openly about my thoughts.
For a moment, his cool facade seemed to soften, and he regarded me with a curious intensity. "Maybe you will," he said, his voice low. The air between us charged with an unspoken acknowledgment of my interest.
As we stood side by side, watching Jerry's enthusiastic challenges to other trainers, the lounge felt like a world apart. Each trainer, adorned in their rank-specific robes, moved with a grace that mirrored the elegance of the Chateau itself. The clinking of glasses and the subtle swish of silk filled the air, adding to the ambiance of historical grandeur.
"Junpei," I continued, eager to understand more about him beyond the battles, "do you ever think about anything besides fighting? Like, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?"
He turned to look at me again, this time with a more thoughtful expression. "I train," he replied after a pause, as if the concept of 'free time' was foreign to him. Yet, there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes, as if my question had sparked a consideration he hadn't entertained before.
We were interrupted by Jerry, who returned with a triumphant grin, having secured a battle with a fellow newbie to the Chateau. Her energy was infectious, though both Junpei and I remained more reserved, observing from a distance.
The Battle Chateau, with its blend of tradition and competitive spirit, seemed to capture the very essence of our journey, challenge, growth, and the subtle interplay of personal dynamics that unfolded with each encounter. As Junpei stood there, his usual detachment slightly waned, revealing a hint of the complexity beneath. It made me want to know him more, to see beyond the battles and the cold exterior, to the person he might really be.
A man then came up to Junpei and started chatting with him, they talked as if they were old friends. I stood there awkwardly before Junpei introduced me, "Oh, Serena this is Grant. The Cyllage gym leader, Grant, is Serena."
I was slightly taken aback by the title he added about being the Cyllage gym leader, but quickly shook it away. The dark-skinned man extended his hand to me, and I shook it. He offered me a friendly smile before retreating back into conversation with Junpei that I didn't eavesdrop on, out of respect for Junpei.
I stood idly off in the corner of the lounge, holding Fennekin, my mind abuzz with many things, particularly what I wanted to do or be, what was my goal? I then noticed that a new person had approached Junpei, a boy similar in age to me and Junpei. He had scruffy, raven black hair that hung down past his eyebrows. He was shorter than Junpei, probably around 5'10 if I had to guess, he had on blue trousers, accompanied by a black and white trainer vest. Junpei then waved me over, to which I listened.
He told me he would be battling someone, who I presumed to be the boy he was talking to just then. "Oh, so I guess he is new to the Battle Chateau too, then?"
"Yep, and he said his name is Kole, at least I think." Junpei said, to which I responded, "You think? Didn't you just talk to him, how'd you not remember his name?"
"I don't know, I wasn't really listening."
I let a chuckle loose from my lips, even though I knew Junpei wasn't trying to be funny.
The trainers both went to the battlefield to prepare, and the maid was the referee for the battle. She announced that whoever won would earn the title of Baron. Both of them then met at the center of the battlefield and did a fistbump, but with their pokeballs. I saw their mouths move as they both said something. Getting back to their respective sides, the battle was 1 on 1 as both trainers released their pokemon.
Junpei chose to use Rufflet, while Kole had let out his? 'I don't know who that pokemon is, never mind' I thought as I got out my pokedex, and scanned the pokemon, which it quickly identified as Binacle.
'Hmm, thats a bad matchup for Junpei, oh no.' however, my worry was for nought as the battle didn't even last 5 minutes before Junpei came out victorious. I cheered loudly and clapped for Junpei, happy he had earned the title of Baron at the Battle Chateau.
Jerry's battle was next; hers lasted a little longer, but she still came out on top. Watching battles still made me feel nothing, I didn't get any sense of wanting to try them or compete in them at all. I rubbed my head in frustration, 'How can I not figure this out, why does it have to be so complicated?'
After Jerry's battle, we promptly looked to leave before Grant stopped us as a group. "Hey, so since you guys are all going to Cyllage City, I drove here, so why don't I give you all a ride there?"
JUNPEI POV
'Thank Arceus for this break from walking. A car ride feels like a luxury right now. It's a win-win; I get closer to my battle with Grant, and my legs get a much-needed rest.'
I didn't let us waste any time. Urging Grant into the driver's seat, I settled in the passenger side, anticipation bubbling within me. "How long till we hit the gym?" I asked, eager to gauge the time remaining.
"About 25 minutes, give or take," Grant replied, starting the engine and pulling onto the road leading to Cyllage City. He seemed intent on making small talk, his voice casual as he glanced back at Jerry and Serena. "So, are you guys aiming for the Kalos League like Junpei?"
Jerry was quick to respond, her voice brimming with her usual zeal, "Yep, and I plan to win, of course!"
Grant chuckled, throwing a supportive glance my way. "Is that so? Good luck, especially with Junpei around!" His wink was clear even from the corner of my eye.
'So unserious,' I mused silently, my focus drifting outside to the passing scenery.
"What about you, Serena? You're pretty quiet back there," Grant probed further.
"Oh, well, no, I'm not exactly sure what I want to do yet," Serena's voice was a mix of hesitancy and reflection.
Grant offered a reassuring nod, "Don't sweat it too much; plenty of folks don't figure out what they want until they get their first Pokémon."
"Um, dude, she already has her first Pokémon..." I interjected, slightly amused by Grant's oversight.
"Oh. Right, my bad," Grant replied with an awkward chuckle, scratching the back of his head.
As we continued our journey, Grant's conversation veered into his familiar tangents about rock climbing and geological formations. His enthusiasm for such topics was boundless, but after ten minutes, my patience wore thin.
"That's it. I'm jumping out of the car," I declared, half-jokingly reaching for the door handle. Grant was quick to lock it from his side, teasing, "Ah, ah, ah, not so fast."
Mercifully, we soon arrived in Cyllage City. I inhaled deeply, the familiar scents of my childhood home filling my lungs. It felt like an eternity since I'd left, even though it had only been a week.
"Alright, Grant, time for our gym ba—"
"Sorry, Junpei, but Tyrunt is sick right now. We'll have to postpone until he's up for the fight," Grant interjected, his tone apologetic.
A metaphorical rain cloud seemed to form over my head as I slumped in my seat, resting my forehead on my knees. "More waiting, really? Haven't I done enough of that?"
Grant responded with a mixture of sympathy and pragmatism. "You want to fight me at full strength, right? You're just going to have to wait a bit longer."
I sighed, conceding the point. "I've been waiting for this, Grant. Since I started my journey, all I've wanted was a good, competitive battle. The best I've had was with a wild Rufflet."
"Hey!" Jerry protested from the back.
"Sorry, Jerry, but it's the truth."
After catching up with my mom and sharing the tales of my journey, I arranged for Jerry and Serena to stay in our guest bedrooms. It seemed the right thing to do, and honestly, it felt good to have company over.
As I lay in bed that night, the anticipation for the postponed battle kept me on edge, like a kid on Christmas Eve, eager for the morning. Hopefully tomorrow, I thought, settling into sleep, would be the day I'd finally face Grant in the gym battle I had been so anxiously waiting for.
Welp, here it is! My longest chapter yet sitting at over 11,000 words. Hope everyone enjoys this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it.
As always please make sure to make a review if you guys have any questions or concerns about the story. I will do my absolute best to get to them all. I really enjoy reading reviews because it gives me a chance to see how others view what I'm writing, and it lets me know if I can do something better or if I need to tone something down. It also tells me that people still care about this story, I write for you guys, you all are what keeps me going! Thank you to those who have stuck with this story so far, and continued reading, it means a lot especially as a new author.
Junpei's Party
Deino (Male) - Tackle, Take Down, Bite
Ability: Hustle
Junpei's main pokemon, the one thats been with him from the beginning.
Rufflet (Male) - Wing Attack, Peck, Aerial Ace, Slash
Ability: Sheer Force
Junpei hopes to evolve it into a battle ready Braviary to dominate the skies.
Riolu (Female) - Quick Attack, Vaccuum Wave, Counter, Work Up
Ability: Steadfast
Junpei's newest addition to the team, he believes she has enough potential to even surpass Hydreigon in terms of power.
Jerry's Party
Gloom (Female) - Growth, Acid, Absorb, Sweet Scent
Ability: Chlorophyll
Shelgon (Male) - Dragon Breath, Bite, Headbutt
Ability: Rock Head
Good news though readers! SYOC is coming back! Thats right, but this time it will be a rival for Junpei. Now I want multiple of these so I will be picking 3 or 2 OCs, I'm, not exactly sure as of yet. The deadline for this is going to be quite far as to give proper time for everyone to submit them if they wish to do so. It works better cause obviously I'm not going to introduce them all in the same chapter, I have to space their introductions out a bit. The criteria will be a little different from the ones previous.
Name:
(Example - Junpei)
Region or City:
(Example - Cyllage City)
Gender:
Age:
Personality:
(Describe their character traits, attitudes, and behaviors.)
Sexuality:
Ace Pokémon:
(Your character's signature or most reliable Pokémon. Requires SIGNIFICANT reasoning if it's a legendary or pseudo-legendary or mythical.)
Party: 1 legendary mythical or pseudo
(Your character's Pokémon team. Be realistic and provide reasoning if including legendaries or pseudo-legendaries.)
Character's Goal:
(What is your character striving to achieve? This can be related to competitions, personal growth, or specific ambitions.)
Connections (optional):
(Girlfriend, boyfriend, friends, or important family ties like Junpeis to Steven Stone for example. Girlfriend or boyfriend can be made up, doesn't have to be from the anime but it can be. Just be sure to include a short description of them as well. Run wild with it and have fun!)
Strengths:
(What are your character's notable strengths or talents?)
Weaknesses:
(What are your character's notable weaknesses or flaws?)
Backstory (optional) :
(Provide some background information about your character. This can include their history, significant events in their life, and how they became Junpei's rival. This is not required but heavily recommended, it helps me get a better grasp of the character.)
Rivalry Dynamics:
(Describe how your character interacts with Junpei. What is the nature of their rivalry? Are they friendly rivals, bitter enemies, or something in between? Don't just put "ThEy'Re RiVaLs beCaUsE ThEy ArE BoTh iN tHe KaLoS LeaGue" because thats boring.)
Anything Else (optional):
(Include any additional information you think is important or interesting about your character.)
I ask that you please don't take this too serious, this is meant to be fun! I hope that you guys keep that in mind and have a good time when creating your OCs, just try to have fun with it! With that being said, please put actual effort into your answers. Be sure to PM me your applications and NOT through reviews. The window for submissions will end on July 1.
Review:
zetsunaflames: What about those who already sent their OC?
Ussyllis: If you would like to keep your original OC, just add the new categories to it, like rivalry dynamics for example. Or you can create a separate OC if you would like.
Thanks guys, Ussyllis out.