POV - JAKE
The stillness of pre-dawn enveloped Jake's small room in the dojo, where the faintest light of the approaching sunrise barely filtered through the thin curtains. He lay in bed for a moment, relishing the quiet. The room, though modest, was impeccably maintained, with tatami mats lining the floor and walls adorned with simplistic but elegant decorations.
Yawning, Jake sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. After a quick wash, his gaze fell upon the small wardrobe provided by the dojo. Inside, a few clothes hung. Most didn't fit quite right, and he would often choose to wear the dojo uniform, its fabric now familiar and comfortable against his skin.
Today, however, called for something different. He sifted through the limited choices, eventually pulling out clothes better suited for outdoor activities and camping – a sturdy pair of pants and a breathable, long-sleeved shirt.
Jake turned his attention to assembling his pack, most of which he had done the previous evening. The essentials first – water, some rations, a basic first-aid kit. Every item was carefully chosen for utility and necessity.
In the corner of the room, Trixie, his ever-energetic companion, flitted about, nibbling on her breakfast of fruit. Movements were quick and playful, the soft movement of her wings a familiar sound in the quiet morning.
Jekyll, in contrast, was a picture of calm, perched contentedly on the windowsill, watching Jake as always, an air of content seeming to emanate from the cut outs of his disguise.
"Ready for the big day, Trixie?" Jake teased, packing the last of his items. "Or are you just going to spend it chasing after berries?"
Trixie paused in her flitting about, head tilting to one side, eyes gleaming with a playful glint. She zipped up to Jake's face, hovering just inches away. "Emol, emol," she chirped, bright eyes twinkling "And what about you, Jakey? Still need me to shock you awake in the mornings?"
Jake chuckled sourly, he hated being called Jakey, imaginary though it was, he carefully packed his gear. "Thank goodness you've stopped that," he replied with a shudder. "I prefer my morning alarm without a side of static, thank you very much."
Trixie buzzed around Jake's head in a loop, her playful energy palpable. "Emol!" she trilled, which Jake interpreted as a cheeky, "But it sure got you up faster!"
Shaking his head Jake zipped up his bag. "I'll take a few extra minutes of sleep over your wake-up calls any day," he said, giving her a fond look. "Your energy is better spent not frying your trainer."
Jekyll who had been watching Trixie with an air of disapproval, suddenly, he puffed up his fake chest, fixing Trixie with a stern look. "Kyuu, Kyuu!" he intoned, "How dare you address the master so irreverently!"
Trixie simply blew out her cheeks and crossed her eyes.
Jake observed this, a fond smile on his lips. "You two are quite the pair," he said with a sigh. "Time to go."
Seeing Jake ready to leave, Trixie flitted over to him landing lightly on her favoured perch. Jekyll leaped off the windowsill perching himself on Jake's opposite shoulder with a hint of satisfaction.
As Jake stepped out of his room, walking down the corridor towards the courtyard, his thoughts drifted to Master Mustard and Honey, their kindness since his arrival at the dojo. They had welcomed him with open arms, provided him with a place to stay, and never once made him feel like an outsider.
He passed by a room that remained closed most of the time. Behind that door, he knew, was the Mustard family's reclusive son, Hyde, Jake had never met him, but he knew of his fondness for coding and that he probably spent most of his time immersed in a computer with his Porygon.
A pang of sadness momentarily gripped Jake as he remembered a conversation he had with Mustard and Honey. They had confirmed that no missing person's report matched his description, a common occurrence they said, especially in a bustling city like Wyndon, where they suspected he was from. Honey had offered him a comforting hug, and Mustard had reassured him with kind words, telling him he could stay at the dojo as long as he needed.
Their generosity and genuine care were often overwhelming to Jake. "The Pokémon world is really kind in some places," he mused to himself. It was a welcome to the loneliness he had felt upon his unexpected arrival in this world, and he was deeply grateful for what they had done for him.
Jake continued down the hallway, the soft light of dawn casting long shadows on the floor. Trixie, perched on his left shoulder, seemed to sense his mood and nuzzled against his cheek gently. Jekyll, more stoic, sat quietly on his right shoulder, his presence now a steady reassurance.
Jake stepped into the dojo courtyard, the first few rays of sun bathing the area in a warm, golden light. He noticed Ciara standing near the edge of the training area, her Kubfu, Kaida, by her side.
He hesitated for a moment, a slight awkwardness in his step. Interactions with Ciara had been few, limited to extremely brief exchanges during training exercises. She was an intense person, often quiet, she seemed completely focused at all times. And truth be told, Jake found her somewhat intimidating – not just in her attitude, but also in appearance. She was striking, dark brown hair pulled back into a high ponytail, accentuating the sharp lines of her face. A fit, athletic build, honed by rigorous training. Skin deeply tanned from countless hours spent under the sun.
Before he could think on what to do, Trixie, the almost literal social butterfly, fluttered off his shoulder. She buzzed excitedly over to the pair. Ciara watched Trixie approach; expression cautious but not unwelcoming. Kaida, spotting the energetic newcomer, crouched slightly, as if unsure how to respond.
Jake took this as his cue. As he neared, Kaida looked up, noticing Jekyll on his shoulder. The Kubfu's posture changed, Kaida backed up a bit, body language shifting to one of apprehension, quickly moving to hide behind Ciara's leg, peeking out cautiously. The little Pokémon's eyes darted between Jekyll and Jake with wariness.
"Stay away from Kaida," Ciara's voice cut through the morning air, low and with a distinct almost American twang. Her words terse.
Jake stopped in his tracks; a bit taken aback. "That accent... are you from Unova?" he asked, unable to contain his curiosity.
Ciara's expression hardened. "Did you not hear what I just said? Stay away from Kaida. That means me as well," she replied sharply. Her gaze flicked to Jekyll, wariness in her eyes, though she seemed to be making an effort to avoid looking directly at him.
Meanwhile, Trixie, oblivious as ever, continued to try to engage with Kaida, emoling cheerfully through Ciara's legs, undeterred by the Kubfu's apprehension.
"I'm just making conversation," Jake said, a hint of defensiveness creeping into his voice. "I've been here a few days, and we haven't really spoken at all."
"Was that not a hint? I don't want to talk to you," Ciara shot back, her voice cold and dismissive.
"Well, what else are we gonna do? We'll be traveling together for a bit anyway," he pointed out.
Ciara let out a small sigh, her stance softening ever so slightly. "Fine, yes, I am Unovan, from Castelia. I grew up on the streets. The Master picked me up," she conceded, her voice lowering slightly. "It's a long story, and I'm not going to tell you anything more."
As she spoke, Ciara's gaze finally met Jake's, her amber eyes holding a certain depth. She sighed again, a hint of resignation in her voice. "I know about your situation. I'm sorry, it's not easy being abandoned."
Jake felt a bit of surprise at her acknowledgment of his predicament, though he hadn't been abandoned exactly, just dropped in the middle of nowhere. For a moment, the barrier she had put up seemed to waver, a glimpse of understanding, perhaps even empathy, beneath her tough exterior.
Ciara's eyes narrowed as she glanced at Jekyll on Jake's shoulder. "Do not take my sympathy for your... situation as acceptance. That Pokémon is dangerous and should not be in the hands of an inexperienced trainer." she said, her voice firm.
Jake felt a flash of indignation. "That's not fair," he countered to Ciara. "Jekyll is actually really nice. Sure, he's only nice to me, but that's beside the point."
Ciara just looked at him, her expression unchanging. Jake met her gaze, feeling slightly sheepish under her scrutinising eyes. He opened his mouth to object further, but before he could continue their conversation was interrupted by a soft voice.
"I'm really not a fan of getting up this early," Siobhan yawned as she approached them, her vibrant orange hair a stark contrast against the morning light. Following closely behind her were Jab and Bab, both yawning and rubbing their eyes, sharing Siobhan's sentiment about the early start.
Ciara's attention shifted away from Jake and Jekyll, giving him a momentary reprieve. He took a breath. He glanced at Ciara, who had now turned her attention to Siobhan, her expression slightly more relaxed.
Jekyll had really got Ciara's hackles up. Jake glanced at Jekyll as if to ask, 'What did you do?' The Mimikyu just turned his head, meeting his gaze with a soft "Kyuu?".
Just then, Siobhan moved closer to greet Trixie, who was still trying to speak to Kaida with her usual enthusiasm. "Hey, Trixie!" Siobhan exclaimed softly, reaching out to scoop the Pokémon into her arms. Trixie chirped happily, delighted at the attention, waggled her wings in contentment as Siobhan hugged her.
Ciara, who usually maintained a serious front, seemed to soften slightly around Siobhan. "Make sure you've packed enough water," Ciara advised seriously.
Siobhan nodded, practicality shining through despite her more girlish manner. "And lots of snacks too, right? Can't have too many of those," she replied with a light chuckle.
He greeted her with a friendly, "Morning, Siobhan," to which she responded with a shy wave and a faint blush, eyes briefly meeting his before looking away. She was a nice, cute girl, Jake thought, though she took her time opening up to new people.
Jab and Bab then burst into the courtyard. "Can't wait to try some of those mushrooms!" Jab declared loudly, grinning.
Ciara just rolled her eyes, ignoring them. Siobhan, however, looked at them with faint amusement. "You do know we're not supposed to eat them, right? I'm not actually sure how they affect humans," she said.
"That's exactly the point!" Bab chimed in with a mischievous glint in his eye. "Who knows? Maybe they'll make us grow huge or something!"
"I wonder if we'll start seeing things," Jab added with a laugh.
"Just be careful not to pick any magic mushrooms," Jake joked with a grin.
Jab and Bab laughed, coming over to greet him with a friendly handshake each. As Jake shook their hands, he mused amusedly that, in this world, some of the mushrooms actually were magical.
Meanwhile, Ciara and Siobhan drifted off to one side, engaging in a quiet conversation. Siobhan occasionally glanced over at Jake; still shy. Ciara, maintaining her serious facade, listened intently to Siobhan, nodding occasionally. The contrast between Ciara's intensity and Siobhan's gentle nature was interesting, yet they seemed to get along very well.
Trixie, having wriggled free from Siobhan's affectionate grasp, was now darting around the courtyard, curiosity leading her in playful loops and dives. Jake just couldn't help but watch her with a smile, thinking how much she loves flying now.
Turning his attention back to Jekyll, Jake decided it might be wise to return the Mimikyu to his Pokéball for now, considering Ciara and Kaida's earlier reaction. He spoke softly to Jekyll, who seemed to understand, and soon he was safely inside his Pokéball. Jake noticed that the other trainers didn't seem especially bothered by Jekyll, leading him to wonder if Ciara had a specific reason, perhaps a past experience, for her apprehension towards Jekyll. Kaida's reaction also didn't do any favours. Jake resolved that he would have to keep working with Jekyll to try open him up more to meeting new Pokemon. He supposed it was also possible that the other trainers were just not as aware of Jekyll's true nature.
Master Mustard and Honey soon emerged from the dojo. Honey, a basket in her arms, approached the trainers, with a warm smile She began distributing food supplies.
"Here you are, everyone," Honey said, her voice soft. "Some snacks to keep your energy up during the trial. Make sure to eat well and stay hydrated."
The trainers accepted the food with gratitude, some offering thanks, others just nodding appreciatively.
Master Mustard, standing beside Honey, cleared his throat, drawing the attention of all present.
"Students," he began, his voice firm, "this trial is not just about finding ingredients." He paced slightly; hands clasped behind his back. "Remember the key learnings we've discussed: navigating the wilderness, setting up camp, and interacting safely with wild Pokémon. These skills are crucial for your journey as trainers."
He paused, looking at each of them in turn. "You are free to engage in battles with wild Pokémon, but be mindful of your and your Pokémon's safety. This trial is also an opportunity to demonstrate the behaviours expected of a Pokémon trainer – respect for nature, for each other, and for the creatures you encounter."
"Good luck," Master Mustard concluded, his expression softening slightly. "The trial begins now. Make the most of this opportunity."
With those final words, Jake and the other students left the dojo courtyard. They walked through the quiet town, which was still mostly asleep at this early hour. The streets were deserted, with only the occasional rustle of leaves or distant sound of a waking Pokémon breaking the silence.
Jake noticed the Pokémon Centre as they passed by, lights still on, a reminder of the round-the-clock dedication of its staff. Further along, they passed the port of Applinby, or Armor Station. Boats were being readied for the day's fishing, crews moving about with purposeful energy.
As the group reached the fence at the edge of town, they were greeted by a cheerful voice. "Morning, everyone! Ready for an adventure?"
Standing there was Symington, the Pokémon Ranger, unmistakable orange hair under his cowboy hat, with his large, friendly belly.
Symington spotted Siobhan in the group and his eyes twinkled with mirth. "Ah, there's my favourite niece! Didn't scare you out of bed too early, did we?" he teased.
Siobhan rolled her eyes, a hint of a smile betraying her amused annoyance. "Uncle, I'm your only niece, and you know I'm not a morning person," she replied.
Turning his attention to Jake, Symington extended a hearty handshake. "I'm glad you've managed to find your feet, lad," he said. Jake shook Symington's hand, gladly, the bluff man a reassuring presence.
Symington led the group out of the town, walking alongside them with his usual cheerful demeanour. Jake noticed a well-trodden trail underfoot, different from the route he had taken by the river to first enter the town.
"So, tell me about this trial of yours!" Symington boomed, his voice echoing with enthusiasm. "The good Ol' Mayor is always creative!"
"We're off to become mushroom hunters, Symington. Maybe we'll find some that'll make us grow ten feet tall!" Jab said excitedly.
Symington chuckled heartily, patting Jab on the back. "Well, just make sure you don't pick any like that one time I did," he said. "Spent days on the toilet, I did! Not the adventure I'd recommend, let me tell you."
Siobhan's face turned a shade of red, a bit embarrassed by her uncle's story. She shot him a look that was half amused, half exasperated. Jake smiled wryly at Siobhan's reaction; his dad was worse, much worse. Catching his gaze, she responded with a shy but genuine grin.
Trixie, zipping around the group, flew up to Symington, who greeted her with a delighted "Well, hello there, little one!" Her energy boundless, her curiosity drawing her to each new sight and sound along the trail.
"I think I know where we need to go," Jake said to the group. "I've made this journey before; I'm pretty sure that I was dropped right in the middle of the forest of focus. I just followed the river. It's probably our best bet to do the same."
Ciara raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure? It's a big area to cover," she said.
"Trixie was raised in those woods; we can just follow her nose." Jake gestured at the flying squirrel.
"It sounds like a good starting point to me," Siobhan said, her voice gentle yet decisive. Jab and Bab also chimed in with enthusiastic agreement.
Reluctantly, Ciara agreed to follow along, probably to stick close to Siobhan. Jake thought she sometimes just liked to object to make a point.
They continued on the trail for a while, Symington regaling them with tales of his experiences as a Pokémon Ranger. Eventually, they reached a point where Symington came to a halt, just past the Fields of Honour.
"This is as far as I go, folks," he said, his voice still cheerful. "Good luck with the trial and watch out for the Scolipede hive around here. They seem to be a bit touchy at the moment."
At the mention of Scolipede, Jake felt a shiver run down his spine. He had almost forgotten the encounter with the Venipede and the monstrous Scolipede. He glanced at the Pokéball containing Jekyll, feeling a twinge of relief that the Pokémon was inside but resolved to remain vigilant for any signs of the formidable Scolipede.
"Thanks for the heads up, Symington," Jake said smiling weakly, trying to keep his voice steady.
Symington waved them off with his usual good humour. "Take care out there!"
The rising morning sun cast long, golden rays through the increasing canopy of trees, dappling the path ahead of them. The terrain gradually changed from the well-trodden dirt of the town outskirts to a more natural, rugged path. The trail meandered, slowly fading, following up the gentle curves of the river a reverse image of Jake's earlier journey on his way into town.
Jake glanced at his companions, noting the varying degrees of interest. Siobhan walked close by, enjoying the scenery. Ciara remained quiet, her gaze fixed ahead, occasionally speaking to Siobhan. Jab and Bab just talked and chuckled, pointing at the various Pokémon and sights along the way.
As the group progressed, the trail led them through the now familiar open plains, an expanse that seemed to stretch under the wide sky. The plains were dotted with herds of Bouffalant, their massive forms grazing peacefully. Jake observed these imposing creatures, the students keeping their distance, aware of their reputation for being territorial.
He noted how the Bouffalant effectively served as a natural buffer zone, or more like 'bouffa' zone, he supposed, between the town and the greater wild area. He wondered whether their presence was a coincidence or by design to keep the more dangerous elements of the region at bay.
As they cautiously skirted around the edges of the fields, maintaining a respectful distance from the Bouffalant, Jake could see the trail gradually fading into the distance. Ahead, a dense canopy of trees marked the beginning of the marshy forest.
Breaking the silence, Jake mentioned. "Last time I was here, I had to cross a marshland further up. It was... well, let's just say it wasn't the most pleasant experience."
Siobhan turned to him, curiosity lighting up her face. "A marshland? That sounds challenging. Were there many wild Pokémon there?"
Jake nodded. "Yeah, quite a few, Chewtle and Drednaw for days. I've already seen way too many of those. It was a bit of a struggle, honestly."
Siobhan laughed softly. "Oh, definitely. You've got to watch out – those Pokémon can be quite territorial, you know."
Ciara listened quietly, her expression unreadable, while Jab and Bab seemed more absorbed in their private jokes.
"So, do you and your friends get to leave the town much?" he asked, trying to sound casual.
Siobhan gave him a slightly puzzled look, as if the question was somewhat unexpected. "Not really," she replied, her shyness still apparent but easing into the conversation. "I don't really know what it's like on the mainland, but leaving on your own without Pokémon isn't easy. We're pretty isolated."
Jake nodded, encouraging her to continue.
"Sometimes our families take us on trips to places like Grimnore or Timeston, usually by boat," Siobhan added. "But it's mainly trainers and rangers who venture further inland. They're the ones who travel around the most."
Jake mulled over this; back home humans had the liberty to traverse almost any terrain at will. Sure, there were dangerous spots, but rarely anything as inherently prohibitive as what Siobhan described. It struck him how different life was in a place where one's ability to explore and travel was so closely intertwined with Pokémon.
Here, it seemed, humans had adapted to a reality where venturing beyond familiar grounds without the aid of Pokémon was not just challenging but often unfeasible. It was an interesting cultural shift. Most of the people he had encountered so far appeared to accept this balance without question. They lived in a world where mutual dependence with Pokémon was the norm, an integral part of their culture and lifestyle. This acceptance and adaptation to such a unique way of life was both intriguing and admirable to Jake. It was a testament to the resilience and adaptability of humanity, how they could embrace such a drastically different mindset when shaped by their environment.
However, Jake knew that this would not be the case for all individuals in this world. Like any society, there would be variations and exceptions. Yet, the ones he had met so far seemed perfectly happy with this lifestyle.
Seizing the opportunity for a more meaningful conversation. "So, what was it like growing up in Applinby?"
Siobhan answered. "It's kind of a small place, as I said, we're pretty isolated from the rest of Galar. We don't get many strangers. I went to the primary school in town with Jab and Bab. Mustard is really kind to us; he gave me my Bulbasaur when I decided to become a trainer."
"That really is kind of him," Jake said, impressed. "And why did you want to become a trainer?"
Siobhan's face lit up with a dreamy expression. "Applinby is nice, but it's small. I want to explore more of the world, see what's out there. It's a simple reason, but it's mine."
Jake nodded, understanding. "That's an excellent reason. Exploring and experiencing new things is what it's all about." Siobhan smiled gratefully at him, a faint blush on her cheeks.
Jake continued. "So, the Galar Pokémon League must be a big deal here. Do you watch it?"
"Absolutely! When it's on, it's like Applinby comes to a standstill. Everyone gathers at the pub to watch it on TV. It's a real community event."
"That sounds amazing," Jake remarked. "Did you ever get to meet Leon, the Champion?"
"I did meet him, but I was quite young. He wasn't Champion then, so I didn't really know who he was," she said. "He got a Charmander from Honey, kind of like how I got my Bulbasaur."
Ciara, who had been quietly listening, added her thoughts. "I never met Leon. He's undoubtedly a strong trainer, but I've heard he didn't complete Mustard's trials. It's a bit ironic, isn't it? Someone who so easily gets lost becoming a Champion."
Jake responded with genuine interest. "Yeah, that is interesting. Kind of makes you wonder, doesn't it? Must mean he's exceptionally skilled to overcome that."
He smiled appreciatively at Ciara, glad to have her contributing to the conversation. Feeling encouraged, he tried. "About Unova, I'd really like to—"
Ciara held up a hand, cutting him off, but her tone was less harsh than before. "Look, Jake, I appreciate the chat, but I'm not really open to discussing my past. It's nothing personal."
Jake sighed a little, Siobhan shot Jake an apologetic look, a slight shrug conveying her apologies on behalf of her friend. She was clearly used to this.
The trail gradually faded into a more natural path as Jake and his fellow students delved deeper into the wilderness. The ground underfoot became increasingly marshy, prompting them to take a brief pause. They each pulled on a pair of wellies, preparing for the wetter terrain ahead.
Jake's steps grew more cautious. He knew they were nearing the territory of the Scolipede hive, a thought that made him vigilant for any signs of its kin. "Trixie, keep an eye out, okay?" he whispered.
POV - CIARA
She had believed those chapters closed; the nightmare left far behind. Castellia, with all its shadows, was supposed to be a distant memory, no longer a burden for her to bear.
Her gaze occasionally drifted to Jake, who was leading the students down the path to the Forest of Focus. He seemed a decent person, thrown into a challenging situation. To Ciara's critical eye, it was evident that Trixie absolutely adored Jake. She admired that, even envied it, albeit grudgingly.
Yet, Jake's partnership with Jekyll complicated her feelings. While she respected his ability to connect with Trixie, Jekyll's presence stirred memories and fears she preferred to keep buried.
Ciara's thoughts drifted to a conversation she'd had with Master Mustard shortly after his battle with Jake. "Master Mustard," she had started cautiously, "Jekyll. What kind of Pokémon is he?"
Mustard had paused, setting down a bowl of Pokémon food. "Ah, Jekyll... the Mimikyu, yes?" he said, his tone thoughtful. "Mimikyu are quite rare, Ciara. Not many know of them, it is with good reason they are sometimes called the lonely Pokémon. They are seldom seen in the wild, let alone with trainers."
Leaning against the wall, Mustard crossed his arms. "You know, since that battle, I've been doing a bit of research myself. Truth be told, I'm still piecing things together. The accounts I've come across are enlightening, but not always in a comforting way. Mimikyu, well, they're a rare encounter for trainers. And there's a reason the tales about them are scarce. Some trainers who have come across Mimikyu... they've simply vanished, which only adds to the mystery surrounding these Pokémon."
He sighed. "Mimikyu are beings grappling with a profound insecurity, and this can manifest in rather... unsettling ways. It's a challenge, a real test of a trainer's resolve. Not many are equipped to handle such a Pokémon."
Ciara had felt a chill at his words. "Disturbing ways?" she echoed; her voice tinged with unease.
Mustard nodded. "Indeed, it's a curious aspect of Mimikyu. There have been instances where trainers form partnerships with these Pokémon, spanning years. Yet, over time, these trainers find themselves overwhelmed, losing touch with reality. It's a tragic turn, but not unheard of with ghost-types."
He paused "Forming and maintaining a bond with a ghost-type, it's a path fraught with challenges, both emotional and mental. It requires deep patience, understanding and an unwavering commitment – qualities that are extremely rare."
He had then looked at Ciara directly, expression thoughtful. "However, Jake seems to have done a remarkable job with Jekyll. It's quite rare, what he's managed. You see, catching Trixie first, a Pokémon with similar characteristics to Pikachu, is often a recipe for disaster with a Mimikyu."
He paused, "But Jake, he's used his bond with Trixie as an anchor for Jekyll's darkest fears, as an example of what could be, as motivation. It's a delicate balance, using one relationship to nurture another, but so far, he looks to be handling it well.'
Mustard's gaze drifted. "Of course, this is how it appears to us. There's no telling with certainty if it will always be this way. Such dynamics are ever-evolving. But it's Jake's path to walk. I've seen trainers and Pokémon separated, and I am not one to divorce a trainer from a Pokémon when I see there is a genuine connection. It's a great tragedy when this happens, a failure on many levels. It breaks the trainer, and more importantly the Pokemon." He seemed to sigh. "Mimikyu are sad creatures, Ciara, to force one to give up on its hope would be a cruelty.'
Ciara had heard Mustard's words, even understood them to a degree, yet her nights did not. Fragments of memory. A twisted grin. A sinister laugh. A feeling of being watched. Pursued by terror. A grudge. A childhood folly. She shuddered.
Siobhan's gentle voice broke through her reverie. "Are you ok?" she asked.
Ciara turned to face the orange-haired girl. "Yeah, I'm alright," she replied with a slight nod, her voice steady. "Just lost in thought for a moment."
Shaking off these thoughts, Ciara refocused on the path ahead. She reminded herself that she was here for a reason, to prove her capabilities and to rise above her past. She couldn't let old fears hold her back, not now.
A rustling in the nearby bushes caught Ciara's attention. A sense of anticipation surged within her. "Perfect," she thought, "a battle. Just what I need to refocus."
Without hesitation, she moved towards the source of the sound, her hand already reaching for Kaida's Pokéball. "Kaida, let's go," she said, releasing her Kubfu into the open.
Jake's voice echoed behind her, slightly uneasy for some reason. "Wait, Ciara! Be careful!"
But Ciara was already in motion, her focus. This was her element, where her clarity and purpose were sharpest. Kaida, sensing her determination, took a battle stance, ready to engage.
POV – JAKE
"This has got to be the oddest Pokémon I've seen so far," he thought. His mind briefly wandered back to the Foongus he had encountered in the woods on his first day in this world, which was now challenged for the top spot on his list of bizarre Pokémon encounters.
He observed the Lickitung's wide-set eyes, which seemed to convey a sense of bewilderment, as if the creature was perpetually lost in its own world—or more likely, just lost in general. The Pokémon's round, pink body was large enough to reach up to his chest, though who knew with how far that tongue extended.
He couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the Lickitung. There it stood, tongue lolling out, probably just waiting for some unsuspecting bug Pokémon to wander by. It seemed almost innocent in its own peculiar way. "Not exactly the fearsome wild Pokémon encounter you'd expect," he mused to himself.
It felt to a little odd being the one initiating the battle. "Feels a bit strange, like we're the ones intruding," he thought. "I guess Pokémon, much like animals, are more hesitant to come near larger groups."
There had been a certain awkwardness to it that Jake hadn't anticipated. In the games, it was quite straightforward, just walk around in the tall grass and battle. But in the real world of Pokémon, they did not just automatically battle you. "Are we supposed to just... attack one? Ask it to battle?"
The Lickitung, initially just standing there with its tongue outstretched, seemed surprised as Ciara charged in. Jake watched; a bit taken aback by her aggressive approach. "Well, that escalated quickly."
"Kaida, Rock Smash!" Ciara commanded, her voice sharp with focus.
Kaida lunged forward; her fist aimed with precision. Jake knew that a human, a hit like that, especially on a vulnerable spot, would be devastating. But the Lickitung, though lacking in agility, cleverly used its tongue to swat Kaida's fist away, turning it into a protective barrier.
Jake couldn't help but be impressed. "Huh, so it's not just for show," he murmured to himself.
The Lickitung, now fully engaged in the battle, seemed to be enjoying the challenge. It initiated what seemed to be a Wrap attack, its tongue extending swiftly in an attempt to ensnare Kaida
From the sidelines, Jab's voice rang out like a seasoned football commentator, "And here comes the Wrap attack, a classic Lickitung move!"
Bab chimed in with his analysis, "Notice how it uses its tongue, not just for reach but also as a defensive barrier. Clever strategy there."
Jake leaned over to Siobhan, whispering, "That thing's tongue... it's like a weapon in itself."
Siobhan nodded, "Yeah, it's Lickitung's main tool in battle. Gotta watch out for it."
Thinking about the Pokédex description, Jake wondered if the Lickitung's saliva had properties similar to a Komodo dragon's, potentially harmful with contact. He was not curious enough to try for himself.
"Kaida, Scary Face!" Ciara instructed next.
Kaida's attempt at looking fearsome seemed more cute than scary. Jake chuckled to himself, but Jab's voice boomed, "Ah, the old Scary Face tactic! But will it work on Lickitung?"
Bab responded, "Well, it's more adorable than scary, but it seems to have thrown Lickitung off its game!"
The Lickitung, recovering from its momentary surprise, retaliated with what seemed to be a Supersonic attack. The high-pitched sound waves filled the air.
"Ah, a sonic attack from Lickitung! I can no longer hear myself think, but this could turn the tide," Jab exclaimed excitedly.
Ciara, undeterred by the Lickitung's move, shouted her next command. "Kaida, Focus Energy now!"
Kaida seemed to centre herself, closing her eyes for a moment. Her muscles tensed, an aura of concentration enveloped her. Despite the cacophony of sound waves from the Lickitung's Supersonic, Kaida remained unfazed, focus unbroken.
Bab noted, "Excellent use of Focus Energy there. Maintaining composure under pressure."
Jake was surprised. "I didn't know Focus Energy could be used like that. Smart move," he thought.
"Now, Brick Break!" Ciara shouted.
With a surge of energy, Kaida delivered a powerful, precise strike. The impact was so forceful that it sent the Lickitung reeling backward.
Jab's voice rose in excitement, "And that's a game-changer! A critical hit!"
As the Lickitung lay defeated, Jake turned to Siobhan, impressed. "Well, I guess that's one way to win a battle," he remarked.
Siobhan smiled, watching Ciara recall Kaida. "Yeah, she's incredible. She takes after Master Mustard in a lot of ways. Her strategy, her focus... it's almost like watching him in action."
Jake's curiosity piqued. "Do you guys have tournaments or something between the students?"
"Oh, we have monthly tournaments at the dojo," Siobhan replied, her eyes lighting up at the mention. "Ciara pretty much always wins. She's tough to beat."
Jake noticed a hint of pride in her voice as she added, "I've won a couple of them too, though it's been a while."
Jake raised an eyebrow. "Oh, really? Should I be watching out for you then, Siobhan?"
"You might be surprised. Don't underestimate me, Jake." Siobhan laughed.
Her expression then softened, becoming more thoughtful. "But you know, I think Ciara is probably quite wary of you. You might be the first serious challenger she's had around her own age. She really wants to be the best, you see."
Jake pondered this, glancing over at Ciara, who was recalling Kaida back to her Pokéball. "Aiming for the top, huh? That's ambitious."
"Yeah," Siobhan agreed. "But she is determined, and if anyone can do it it's her. Anyway, I should go check on her." With that, she trotted off towards Ciara.
Jake stood still for a moment. He reflected on his own journey and the path he found himself on since joining the Master Dojo. Initially, his goal had been simple: get his bearings, gain experience, learn how to train Pokémon effectively. The idea of being 'the best' hadn't really crossed his mind; his aspirations were more practical, more immediate.
But hearing about Ciara's determination, her clear-cut goal of being the best, ignited something in Jake. It wasn't a desire for fame or the thrill of victory that spurred him; it was the need to fulfil a more personal mission. He wanted to meet one of the Legendary Pokémon, capable of finding a way to communicate with his family back on Earth. That goal had always been at the back of his mind, a distant hope that had increasingly seemed almost too grand to pursue.
The more he thought about it, the more he realised that competing in the Pokémon League could be a crucial step in that direction. Developing a strong team, proving his skills as a trainer – these were not just badges of honour; they would allow him to be in a position to achieve his goals.
Master Mustard was a former Champion, obviously with significant influence and freedom. The respect and autonomy Mustard commanded were not just due to his past title but also because of the power and knowledge he had amassed over the years. "If I could achieve even a fraction of that," Jake mused, "I might stand a chance at meeting a Legendary Pokémon."
The landscape around them teemed with life. Chewtle and Corphish colonies were frequent sights, their figures dotting the marshland. Trixie, who Jake kept out of her Pokéball as she disliked being confined for too long, darted about, winning battles with her agility and type advantage. Jekyll, content in his Pokéball, was on Jake's mind; he knew keeping him confined wasn't a long-term solution.
Ciara remained relentless, actively seeking out confrontations with wild Pokémon. Her battling style was aggressive, a reflection of her training under Master Mustard. Siobhan, on the other hand, engaged in battles with a more tempered eagerness. Her Bulbasaur, was particularly suited to fighting the Pokémon of the wetlands, which gave her a distinct edge. Siobhan's approach was not quite as intense as Ciara's, but still bore hallmarks of Mustard's teachings.
The weather gradually shifted, with clouds turning a somber grey and a light drizzle beginning to fall. The sounds of Croagunk and Poliwhirl echoed across the marshland, blending with the soft patter of rain.
Jake struck up conversations with Siobhan, learning about her interest in Pokémon nutrition. She spoke passionately about the diets of Pokémon and how it influenced not only their battle performance but their overall well-being. Her knowledge on the subject was comprehensive, and as they walked, Jake learned about different berry types, nutritional supplements, and even homemade Pokémon food recipes.
Jab and Bab, though less inclined towards battling themselves, provided constant entertainment with their running commentary on each skirmish. Their insights were surprisingly detailed. They were avid followers of the Pokémon League. In a conversation with them, Jake had subtly inquired about trainers like Gloria or Ash, but they seemed to be unaware of them, which made Jake curious about where he was on the timeline of events.
The light drizzle persisted as Jake and his fellow students made their way down the trail, engaged in casual conversation. Trixie, ever the energetic scout, zipped ahead of the group, her movements full of playful curiosity.
Suddenly, she circled back towards Jake, emoling in a tone that was unusual for her. Jake noticed the change immediately. "What is it, Trixie?" he asked.
'Emol!' Trixie responded pointing her paws towards the hill in the distance.
At first, the distant sounds were just a faint echo, barely discernible over the rain. But as they climbed the muddy hill, echoes grew clearer, clinks and clashes ringing. A Pokémon battle. A large scale one by the sounds of it.
Below them, in a natural clearing bordered by dense foliage, a battle raged with intensity. Jake's eyes widened as he took in the sight: about twenty Pawniard, metallic bodies glinting in the dull light, arrayed in a disciplined, almost military formation. At their rear stood a commanding Bisharp, its eyes scanning the battlefield with cold calculated precision, directing its troop with sharp, movements.
Opposite the Pawniard, a more chaotic cluster of Venipede whizzed about, their spherical bodies a rolling about at pace. Charging Whirlipede whirled wildly. And dominating the scene was the regrettably now familiar sight of a Scolipede, towering and monstrous, its segmented body moving with a surprising grace that belied its size. Barbed legs struck the ground with force, sending splatters of mud into the air.
Nearby, a broken willow tree marked the battleground. Trixie flew back to Jake, her eyes wide. Jake saw a flash of recognition in her eyes; she seemed to know this place.
Jake, watching the intense battle below, turned to Siobhan. "What do you think we should do?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Siobhan, eyes fixed on the clash, replied, "It looks like a territorial battle. Wild Pokémon can be quite aggressive about their territory. Bisharp, especially, are known for trying to establish mini empires."
Jake considered this. "Is this common?" he asked, intrigued.
Siobhan nodded. "Yes, wild Pokémon hunt for food, of course, but territorial disputes are also an important natural instinct for many. Bisharp are particularly notorious for it."
Ciara, who had been observing silently, added coldly, "Unless they're taken down by an internal plot."
Jake recalled the Pokédex entries for these species. The entry indicated that Bisharp were ruthless, often prone to internal disputes and even civil wars. He recalled Kingambit, that were present in Paldea, and he supposed the rest of the world as well, the ultimate evolution of Bisharp. "Suppose it takes an exceptional Bisharp to become a Kingambit, I wonder how rare they are?" he mused to himself.
Ciara's voice broke through his thoughts. "We can't intervene. The numbers are overwhelming. But we should stay alert for any stragglers."
Ciara's statement hung in the air, her voice firm. "Still, as trainers, it's our duty to help Pokémon in need, especially in the wild."
Siobhan nodded in agreement, reaching into her pack to pull out potions and antidotes. "We should be prepared, just in case."
As they continued to watch, the Bisharp maintained its position at the rear, eyes cold and calculating. The Pokedex indicated that Bisharp often used Pawniard as expendable soldiers. The Bisharp's demeanour seemed to confirm this, waiting for the right moment to strike.
Suddenly, Jake's gaze locked onto the Scolipede, a flash of recognition crossing his face. "That's the same Scolipede we encountered earlier," he whispered to Trixie, who emoled in understanding. Jake wondered if his previous battle had influenced this clash in some way.
The Pawniard, despite their smaller size, were holding their own against the Venipede and Whirlipede, slowly but steadily wearing down the monstrous Scolipede. The Scolipede, as aggressive as ever, fired Poison Stings and charged through the Pawniard formation. However, the Pawniard's steel typing rendered them resistant to the poison attacks, and they were only really knocked to the ground without any real damage, though a bit muddy.
The Bisharp's eyes began to glow with an intense focus, and Ciara identified the move. "It's gearing up with Laser Focus," she said. "It's waiting for the perfect moment."
The Bisharp's eyes, sharp and calculating, never left the Scolipede, its body coiled like a spring.
The Scolipede reared up, massive body casting a looming shadow, preparing to launch its Poison Tail attack. The Pawniard troop braced themselves, their formation scattering into a looser one.
In a flash, the Bisharp sprang into action. Movement a blur, a streak of silver against the green backdrop of the marsh. With terrifying precision, it slashed at the now vulnerable neck of the Scolipede.
Jake's eyes widened in shock as the Bisharp's claws, glowing ominously, sliced through the Scolipede's exoskeleton, a knife through butter. Green blood, acidic and potent, sprayed from the Scolipede's severed body, sizzling as it made contact with the ground and nearby Pawniard. The corrosive substance ate away at the marshland, leaving steaming patches of decay in its wake.
Siobhan gasped audibly, her hands flying to her mouth in horror at the sheer ruthlessness of the attack.
Ciara watched the scene unfold with a stoic expression, but even she closed her eyes for a brief moment, perhaps in silent acknowledgment of the brutal reality they were witnessing.
Jake watched, his heart pounding, as several Pawniard writhed in agony, steel bodies visibly corroding under the toxic assault. The acidic blood ate through their metallic exteriors, leaving some immobilised, once sharp and gleaming forms now tarnished and pitted.
The air was filled with the sounds of battle turning to chaos – the dying hisses of the Scolipede, the clanging of the Pawniard trying to retreat from the corrosive spray, the victorious yet ominous call of the Bisharp.
The Bisharp uttered a satisfied "Bish", standing tall amidst the chaos, eyes reflecting a cold satisfaction. With a methodical shake of its claws, it flicked off the remnants of green blood, its metallic skin unmarred.
The remaining Venipede and Whirlipede, shocked by the sudden turn of events, quickly burrowed into the ground, retreating as fast as they possibly could. The Bisharp, commanding and unyielding, signalled its troop to pursue the fleeing Pokémon.
As the Pawniard troop vanished into the underbrush, Jake stood there, grappling with the raw brutality he had just witnessed. The Bisharp's ruthlessness was unlike anything he had seen before. He had read about the nature of some Dark-type Pokémon in the Pokédex, but witnessing such ferocity in reality was jarringly different. He hesitantly turned to Siobhan and Ciara. "Did you... did you know about this?"
Siobhan's voice was shaky, tinged with sadness, almost on the verge of tears. "My uncle told me stories... about how brutal it can be in the wild. But hearing about it and seeing it are two different things," she whispered.
Ciara, sensing Siobhan's distress, wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. Her tone was cold, distant. "Bisharp are dangerous," she stated flatly. "They show no mercy when they gain power. But it's common for them to fall to their own kind or meet a fate like that Scolipede. Power breeds enemies."
Jake looked down at Trixie, who seemed to mirror the somber mood, her usual vibrancy dimmed. He hugged her close. "I'm sorry you had to see that," he murmured. Trixie licked his cheek in response, a small gesture of comfort in the midst of the grim reality.
Even Jab and Bab, usually the source of light-hearted banter, were unusually silent, their expressions somber and thoughtful.
Jake, looking for some understanding, asked Ciara, "Does this happen in the Pokémon League?"
Ciara shook her head. "Very rarely. Fans don't want to watch death matches. There are underground tournaments where this happens, but they're illegal and widely condemned. It used to be more common in the past, but now, those found participating in such events face severe consequences, including lifetime imprisonment and confiscation of their Pokémon."
Ciara, still maintaining her stoic attitude, shook Siobhan in her arms. "Get yourself together," she said, voice firm yet not unkind. Siobhan nodded, wiping away tears, trying to regain her composure.
Jake watched Siobhan with concern. He felt a wave of sadness himself but remembered his mother's advice about dealing with difficult situations. "Process it, but don't let it consume you," she had said. He decided to compartmentalise his feelings, planning to reflect on them later.
Ciara took charge. "We should help the ones left behind," she stated decisively, stepping cautiously into the aftermath of the battlefield.
The mood was somber yet determined as Jake and the others navigated the scarred battlefield. The ground beneath their feet was uneven, marred by the corrosive aftermath of the Scolipede's blood. Patches of earth still hissed and bubbled, a reminder of the deadly encounter that had just taken place.
The sky, overcast and grey, seemed to reflect the gravity of the situation. The gentle drizzle that had been a soothing presence earlier now added to a melancholic atmosphere, casting a damp veil.
Trixie flew alongside Jake, usual playful demeanour replaced by a focused seriousness. They moved cautiously, searching for any survivors. Fallen Pawniard were scattered across the battlefield, their steel bodies dulled and pitted where the acid had taken its toll.
Amid the destruction, Trixie suddenly let out a sharp cry, drawing Jake's attention. She fluttered down towards a small, curled-up shape partially hidden under a damaged fern. It was a Venipede, body tightly coiled in fear, trembling visibly.
Jake hurried over; heart heavy at the sight of the frightened creature. The Venipede seemed unharmed physically, but the battle had clearly left its mark. He knelt beside it, trying to offer some comfort, but the Venipede remained tightly wound, body shaking.
Jake knelt beside the trembling Venipede, unsure how to offer comfort to the traumatised creature. Each time he moved closer, the Venipede's body flashed more intensely, a clear sign of its persistent use of Defence Curl. The move created a rhythmic glow around its coiled form, trying to protect itself from any further harm.
Trixie, floating nearby, "Emol, emolga' almost as if saying, "Hey, it's Trixie. I remember you." Jake could sense the intention behind her emoling, a soft attempt to reassure the scared Pokémon.
As he watched Trixie's efforts, realisation dawned on Jake, Trixie had told him of her adventure, and though he really only got the gist, her Venipede impression had been memorable. This was the same Venipede that had been hurt by Jekyll during their first encounter.
Overwhelmed by its continuous use of Defence Curl, the Venipede's movements began to slow, body glowing faintly as it finally succumbed to exhaustion and passed out. Jake sighed, gently stroked the small creature, whispering, "I'm sorry for your loss." It was quiet, save for the soft sound of rain and the distant murmurs of his companions tending to the other Pokémon.
Trixie gazed at Jake with a sad, pleading expression, silently urging him to do something more. Nodding in understanding, Jake reached into his pocket and pulled out a Pokéball. He remembered Mustard's poignant words when he had handed them out, "You never know."
With a gentle tap of the Pokéball against the Venipede's form, it was engulfed in a red light and pulled inside. The capture was swift and uneventful, a stark contrast to the chaos that had preceded it.
Trixie, upon seeing the successful capture, flew up to Jake, hugging his neck for comfort, gratitude and relief. Jake let out a sigh, his thoughts tinged with irony. "Three different Pokémon in one week..." he mused to himself.
Jake held the Pokéball containing the Venipede, a quiet, sombre moment, rain gently falling around them and sounds of healing in the background, a moment that should be triumphant, and joyous instead shadowed by a bitter reality of Pokémon.
