SURPRISE! Hey readers - here we are with an early new chapter : )
Okay, so explanations before anything else. You guys remember how I said last chapter that that part of the episode would be shorter as there was no decent place to chop up the episode? Well... I may have severely underestimated just how much there was left for me to write when I posted that. I've now finished the episode, and let me tell you, there was just no way I can divide the rest of the episode in a way that made it all fit into the standard six chapters I usually do per episode. I therefore had to write an additional seventh chapter, and that chapter by itself ended up being four times longer than what I previously updated as part four. So, to cut a long story short, I've now edited all of the remaining chapters for this episode and divided them up in different places, just to try and even them out a bit length-wise. To that effect, I have now gone back and edited part four, making it sufficiently longer than it was previously. I would recommend that you all go back and read that chapter again first, as there will be a sufficient jump in events otherwise. Naturally, by altering that chapter, I caused the story to update and I didn't want people to be confused, hence why I decided to post this chapter a week earlier than intended. I mostly did it so that I could both explain and so that the story continued without anyone being left completely bewildered by what was going on with it. I know that I could have just left it until next week to make the alteration, but honestly, it only would have played on my mind all week and I just wanted to get this sorted out ASAP. I figured that since the usual readers that take part in the voting topics have already left reviews leaving their votes, I couldn't see what harm it would do to cut that particular tie-breaking vote a week shorter than usual. So... you guys get an early update because of my ridiculousness XD
And on that note, let's move on to the results of last week's voting topic. First, I would like to thank the regular reviewers for consistently taking part in the voting topics. Those votes really help make the story what it is, and I genuinely appreciate their input every time I post a voting topic. In addition, I would also like to thank a new reviewer for being the one to break the tie. I am absolutely over the moon to announce that the winner of the last voting topic was... Murkrow! This was definitely the one I was hoping for, as not only do I love the Murkrow/Honchkrow line, but this is also the first Dark Type Pokemon to be added to Nolan's ever expanding Pokemon family. I also just think it brings the potential for an interesting new character and I've already got some ideas going for what I want to do with this particular family member ; )
Beyond that, I just want to say an ENORMOUS thank you to everyone that has reviewed, favourited, and followed this story. The support that has been shown to the story is amazing, and it means so much to me, so thank you : )
Please remember that Pokemon is not mine, only my OC's are : )
I hope you enjoy this chapter : )
Bulbasaur and the Hidden Village - Part 5
In the heart of the Hidden Village, the sun continued to filter through the dense canopy of leaves as it continued its path across the sky, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor as Ash, Misty, Nolan, and Brock all settled into the small clearing surrounding Melanie's cabin, their conversation still revolving around the sequence of events that had brought them back together again. The air was alive with the chirping of Pidgey and the rustling of hidden creatures, but beneath the surface of their camaraderie lay an undercurrent of tension, a silent agreement that something significant had shifted in their dynamic. Now that he knew his friends were all okay, Ash's thoughts had turned back the morning's exploration of the forest, when each beat of his heart had pulsed with the anticipation of a new capture. He thought about the wild Bulbasaur, vibrant and strong, and in that fleeting moment, he felt the undeniable spark of hope, wishing for a future bond with the creature. Little did the raven haired boy know however, this spark would soon flicker under the weight of a very difficult choice.
"Hey Nolan" Ash turned to his best friend, his enthusiasm bubbling over like a fresh pot of water on a stove, "What did you mean when you said you had something to tell me about the wild Bulbasaur we all saw this morning?"
His russet coloured eyes sparkled with curiosity and a tinge of hope, visions of gym battles and victories dancing in his mind. Nolan's expression on the other hand suddenly shifted, his bright smile fading as he took a deep breath, the kind that seemed to draw in all the surrounding energy, before releasing it in a heavy exhale.
"Well…" he started, his voice tinged with an uncertainty that made Ash's stomach twist. "Melanie explained to me that the Bulbasaur we ran into, whilst not her own Pokemon, is actually the guardian of the Hidden Village".
Ash's heart immediately sank.
He had envisioned the Bulbasaur as part of his team, a trusted companion on his journey to become a Pokemon Master. But the word 'guardian' seemed to weave a heavy web of responsibility, one that went against to his own personal desires like a sword against a shield.
"Guardian? What do you mean?" the raven haired boy pressed, unwilling to let go of that flicker of hope just yet.
"I mean, it looks out for the wild Pokémon here, protecting them from trainers who might want to capture them" Nolan continued gently, his tone sympathetic but also incredibly serious, "The Pokemon come here to recover from injuries or illnesses, and that Bulbasaur makes sure they're safe".
The realisation of what Nolan was trying to tell him struck Ash like a lightning bolt.
Almost immediately, the raven haired boy felt a mix of disappointment and confusion swirling within him. He had come to this village with dreams of expanding his team, of catching Pokémon that would help him grow stronger. Now, this new reality felt like a heavy stone anchoring him down. One he wasn't ready to accept quite yet.
"But I battled it!" Ash whined desperately, "And it was so strong! It was practically begging me to capture it!"
His frustration was more than obvious.
Nolan kept his gaze steady, piercing through Ash's initial anger. The golden haired boy could understand the sheer sense of temptation his best friend was currently experiencing, but he needed to make Ash understand the severity of the situation. The other boy needed to know that there could be consequences if he went against the moral thing to do here. Bad consequences.
"I know, but I promised Melanie that none of us would try to capture any of the wild Pokemon here" the golden haired boy replied gently, his icy boy eyes filled with empathy and understanding, "But it's not just about us, or want we want, Ash. It's about respecting the wild Pokemon whose home this is, and their right to live here in peace and safety".
Ash huffed, but Nolan could see he was getting through to him.
From their spot across the clearing from the two younger trainers, Misty and Brock both seemed to agree and understand the weight of the reason behind Nolan's promise to Melanie. Misty glanced at Ash, her expression neutral but attentive. She had always believed in the bond between a trainer and their Pokemon, but even she could see the weight of Nolan's words hanging in the air like the scent of impending rain. Brock, ever a person of reason, could understand too.
"He's right, Ash" the aspiring Pokemon breeder chimed in, knowing that his friend wouldn't like hearing it but that it needed to be said anyway, "You wouldn't want to take advantage of a Pokemon when it's vulnerable, right?"
Ash still looked conflicted, but his will was waning now.
"That isn't how true friendships are formed, Ash" Misty reminded her friend gently, "You'd just be taking bullying a creature too weak to defend itself. You don't want to be that kind of trainer. Only bad guys try
to capture sick Pokemon. Real Pokemon trainers earn their Pokemon and the friendships they bring into the person's life".
Ash felt the fire of his determination wane, replaced by a deep-seated unease.
The more his friends spoke, the more the raven haired boy couldn't help but winder. Would he really want to catch that Bulbasaur, take it away from its self-imposed duty, and start their relationship on such a shaky foundation?
No.
The answer was an immediate no. The thought of a Pokemon resenting him gnawed at Ash's conscience.
"I… I wouldn't want that," he admitted, his voice barely a whisper.
And with that soft, gentle admittance, the fight drained from Ash's body like water through cupped hands. In that moment of his friend's vulnerability, Nolan's expression softened, and he offered the other boy a proud smile.
"We're all on this journey together, Ash" the golden haired boy said with a wisdom beyond his years but completely in character for him, "It's not just about having the strongest team; it's about building bonds of trust and respect. Think of the adventures you could have together with Pokemon you've truly earned".
With a heavy sigh, Ash nodded reluctantly, the decision weighing on him like a boulder.
"Okay Nolan, I'll keep your promise" the raven haired boy agreed, "No capturing Pokemon here".
The words felt strange on his tongue, but nestled within that choice was the realisation that perhaps, just perhaps, there was a deeper lesson to be learned here in the Hidden Village. Nolan beamed at him, and as they settled into their surroundings again, the forest buzzed with life around them, each sound a reminder of the wild world they were a part of. Ash felt a sense of calm wash over him, the camaraderie of his friends and the vibrancy of the Hidden Village providing solace. There was a beauty in the wild, a magic in the unbroken bonds of nature that, for a moment, eclipsed his desire for conquest.
His sense of serenity did not last long however.
"But are the traps Melanie set up tough enough to keep robbers away from this place?" the raven haired boy wondered aloud as an unpleasant thought came to him, spurred on by Misty's earlier words to him, "I mean, no offensive Misty, but you'd have to be pretty oblivious to fall into one of those holes. You were distracted, but if someone came here to steal Pokemon, surely they'd be more alert, right?"
Nolan, Misty and Brock all shared an uncomfortable look.
They were begrudging forced to admit that their raven haired friend had a very valid point there...
WHAM!
Or perhaps it simply depended on the capabilities of the thief in question.
A gentle breeze sent ripples across the water's surface down by the river, but all was not peaceful in the seemingly serene setting. A cacophony of groans and muttered curses erupted from a tangled heap of limbs at the bottom of a pitfall trap. Team Rocket, the notorious trio known for their mischief and endless schemes, had found themselves in yet another precarious predicament.
As if falling off a bridge today wasn't enough!
"Ugh, not again!" Jessie exclaimed, her voice laced with irritation. The remnants of their latest failure clung to her like the muddy water that soaked through her clothes. "This is the third hole we've fallen into today! How is it that nobody ever falls into our traps, but we always fall into theirs?"
That was certainly a wonder. Whilst this was the first trap that the gang of criminals had fallen into after just barely fishing themselves out of the churning river they'd being unfortunate enough to fall into, this very same thing had already happened twice earlier that morning, back when they had been up on the mountain scouring the area for the so-called Hidden Village.
It was certainly getting really old, really quickly.
The magenta haired woman's question hung in the air, racing past the ears of her teammates like the distant sound of a waterfall. James, ever the optimist, seized the opportunity to respond.
"Well, this one was very cleverly hidden, Jessie!" the cyan haired man exclaimed with an amount of joy that their current situation most definitely did not warrant, "Just look at the craftsmanship!"
Jessie's eyes narrowed as she shot him a glare that could wilt flowers.
"Oh, I'm so glad you're enjoying it James!" the female criminal spat back at her co-worker as she shoved his elbow out of her face, her tone a fine blend of anger and disbelief, "Maybe we should just throw a party down here while we're at it!"
Meowth, who had landed between them and was now being thoroughly squashed, snarled in frustration.
"Meowth! Well, this is just peachy!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon spat indignantly, his whiskers twitching in agitation. "Da boss is gonna have our tails for dis one! We're supposed to be capturing dat Pikachu, not playing hide and seek with da ground!"
Jessie and James both sighed at the blunt remark.
The trio lay in a crumpled heap, a tangled mess of limbs and fur, their spirits as low as the pit they found themselves in. With a collective grunt, they eventually began the arduous task of extricating themselves from the trap. It certainly wasn't easy, considering just how high the walls of the hole were. It was especially difficult for James, considering that he was still carrying the majority of the equipment they had requisitioned from the nearest Team Rocket headquarters.
"Would you stop admiring the craftsmanship for a second and help me get out?" Jessie shoved him with a huff.
James grinned sheepishly.
"It's the little things, Jessie!" the cyan haired man smirked at his friend playfully, brushing dirt from his uniform before extending a hand to Jessie, "You've got to appreciate the artistry in everything, even traps!"
The magenta haired woman scowled.
"Artistry?!" Jessie seethed, her patience fraying like the edges of their well-worn uniforms, "I'd appreciate a way out of this ditch more than your appreciation for traps!"
James just chuckled fondly in response.
They fumbled about, clawing, climbing, and almost slipping back into the muddy pit multiple times. It was a comedic ballet of frustration, punctuated by Meowth's exasperated mutterings about 'teamwork' and 'the joys of villainy'. Finally however, after what felt like an eternity but in reality was just a mere ten minutes, Team Rocket managed to pull themselves over the edge, panting and covered in mud. They glanced at each other, the shared frustration momentarily overshadowed by a spark of camaraderie.
"Okay, Team Rocket" Jessie declared, wiping a stray clump of mud from her hair. "This isn't working. We need a new strategy, one that doesn't involve gravity or pitfall traps!"
James nodded, brushing himself off with exaggerated care.
"Right!" the cyan haired man nodded in agreement with the words that his female counterpart had just spoken, "This time, we'll outsmart whoever it was that set these traps before they can trip us up again!"
From his spot between them, Meowth flexed his claws menacingly.
"Yeah!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon chimed in, his eyes gleaming with malice as he hissed and snarled, "We'll show 'em dat I'm dat top cat around here! Meowth!"
And so with their spirits lifted and their eyes now set on the horizon, the trio prepared to forge ahead, determined to reclaim their honour as talented thieves and finally capture all the Pokemon down at the Hidden Village. Little did they know, the forest held more surprises than they could ever imagine, and their misadventures were only just beginning.
Just literally in fact.
Not two minutes later, disaster struck them once again.
Jessie, James, and Meowth trudged onwards into the woods, the rustling leaves of the dense canopy of the forest whispering secrets of the Hidden Village that lay just beyond their reach. The thought of the wild Pokémon being treated within its confines, or more specifically the thought of capturing these elusive creatures, was enough motivation to keep them moving forwards. But as they navigated the winding trails, the trio was blissfully unaware of what was awaiting them next in this enchanted woodland.
"Keep your eyes peeled, James!" Jessie commanded, her determination palpable as she brushed a stray lock of hair from her face, "Those wild Pokemon from the Hidden Village are ours for the taking! Just think of the glory!"
James, adjusting the heavy pack of equipment he was still carrying, nodded.
"Right, right!" the cyan haired man smirked that dangerous little smirk of his, "I can already envision our triumphant return, stars shining in the eyes of every other Team Rocket grunt!"
The group's excitement at the thought was practically palpable.
But as they ventured deeper into the verdant underbrush, the thrill of their mission began to intertwine with a sense of foreboding. Suddenly, the air shifted. A faint, almost imperceptible Twang! echoed through the trees.
It was a sound that would soon spell trouble for the notorious trio.
As Jessie stepped forward, her foot caught on a hidden trip wire, and in that split second, the forest transformed from a simple backdrop into a web of chaos. With a jarring snap, a net sprung up from the ground beneath them, ensnaring them in a tangled mess of ropes. They were hoisted into the air, swaying precariously like a trio of piñatas awaiting their fate.
Needless to say, Team Rocket was not impressed at all.
"Grrr! Not another trap!" Meowth screeched, his voice a mix of anger and indignation as he squirmed between Jessie and James, "Why does dis always happen to us?!"
Jessie and James were both too busy shrieking and flailing about to answer him.
"Ouch! My tail!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon wailed in a mix of both sharp pain and intense annoyance as the two humans inadvertently kept tugging on the aforementioned appendage, "Let go! Stop pulling my tail!"
His frustration intensified as he wriggled, accidentally pulling the others closer. But the more he struggled, the more entangled he and the two humans became, creating a cacophony of complaints that echoed through the forest.
"This is just pathetic!" Jessie huffed, her cheeks flushed with both embarrassment and anger. "We're supposed to be stealing Pokemon, not becoming part of a circus act!"
Squashed up amongst them, James sighed and shook his head.
"Maybe we should have thought twice before trying to steal from the Hidden Village," the cyan haired man muttered, his tone laden with resignation as he dangled upside down in the net, "But we can't give up now. We just need to think… how do we get out of this mess?"
Meowth, feeling the strain of their predicament, let out a frustrated growl as he tail was tugged yet again.
"If you two don't stop pulling on me, I swear I'll..." but before he could finish his threat, the little feline Pokémon's frustration boiled over.
His claws unsheathed, and with a fierce swipe, he slashed through the net, setting them free.
WHAM!
The trio came crashing down in a heap, the earth rising to meet them in a chaotic embrace. As they disentangled themselves, dusting off dirt and embarrassment, Jessie's fierce spirit re-emerged.
"That does it!" she declared fiercely, brushing off her uniform with renewed determination, "Whoever set all these traps is going to regret messing with Team Rocket!"
James and Meowth wholeheartedly agreed with her.
"Right! They've messed with the wrong team!" James chimed in, his eyes glinting with an malicious spark, "We need to find them and make them pay! They won't get away with humiliating us like this!"
Meowth, shaking off the remnants of the net, nodded in agreement.
"And I bet dey're hiding down at dat Hidden Village!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon spat, rubbing his aching tail gingerly, "Let's teach dem a lesson dey won't forget!"
With their spirits ignited and vengeance fuelling their footsteps, Team Rocket plunged deeper into the forest, ready to reclaim their mission and unleash their trademark chaos on whoever dared to cross their path.
The Hidden Village wasn't going to know what had hit it.
Now that everybody had agreed to honour the promise that had been made, Nolan and his friends had all settled into the Hidden Village with remarkable ease.
Ash, never one to be able to sit still for very long, had been itching to do something, and as such he had quickly volunteered to help with whatever task needed completing around here to help Melanie in her duties. Brock, not one to be outdone when it came to a pretty face, also volunteered his services. Melanie had been delighted by the offer of help, and she quickly asked if they minded helping with the Staryu bobbing around in the pond. The pretty blue haired young woman had explained that she had come across the Water Type Pokemon out in the forest one day, a very bizarre place to find such an unusual creature. Her theory around the circumstances of its presence in the forest was that the poor creature's former trainer had abandoned it in the woods, clearly a heartless individual who not only put their Pokemon through the emotional trauma of leaving it behind, but also dumping it in a place that was completely the wrong environment. Quite frankly it was a miracle that Melanie had happened across the poor Pokemon in time, and she had promptly brought it back here to the hidden village so it could recover. But due to it being a sea dwelling creature, the river water was doing precious little to aid in the star-shaped creature's recovery. As such, Melanie had been concocting salt water by hand, and then bathing Staryu in it, which seemed to be working wonders. This was the job that she now had Ash and Brock fulfilling for her.
With Nolan, things were a different story.
After his intense discussion with Ash regarding the morality of capturing any of the wild Pokemon here, the golden haired boy had experimentally tried to take a few steps on his injured ankle. To his surprise and relief, the pain had ebbed away quite significantly, clearly a result of the Pokemon-infused essence Melanie had applied to it, and Nolan was able to take a few ginger steps without falling over. It was a vast improvement on his earliest situation. There was no way that he'd be running a marathon anytime soon, but at least he was confident that by the time it was time for them to leave the village and resume their journey, he'd be able to keep up with the others and not slow them down too much. As for now, he was currently back sitting on his tree stump, watching the others with an air of restlessness.
That just left Misty, and she had perhaps the most difficult task of all.
Righting a wrong.
Misty had always believed that catching Pokemon was about skill, strategy, and, above all, ambition. But as she stood in the dappled sunlight of the forest clearing that made up the Hidden Village, watching the wild Poliwag she had encountered earlier playing with the other Water Type Pokemon in the pond, she felt an unfamiliar pang of doubt gnawing at her conscience. That nagging voice in her head - Nolan's voice - echoed with an unsettling clarity: 'It's about respecting the wild Pokemon whose home this is, and their right to live here in peace and safety'. The words had struck deep, and now they settled heavily on her heart like a thick fog.
They applied just as much to her as they did to Ash, after all.
In that moment, as the vibrant greens of the forest encased her, the thrill of her usual competitive spirit felt distant and muted. Misty glanced around, taking in the serene beauty of the forest clearing. The whisper of leaves and the gentle trickle of a nearby stream seemed to contrast sharply with the turmoil in her chest. She had nearly captured that little Poliwag only hours ago, and yet, it had escaped, fleeing into safety thanks to the brave Bulbasaur that apparently guarded this area. As she replayed the scene in her mind, the image of the frightened creature, eyes wide with terror, haunted her.
How could she have prioritised her ambition over its sense of security?
It made her feel sick.
And so, determined to right her wrongs, Misty inhaled deeply, the fresh scent of the forest filling her lungs. She kept her vermillion coloured eyes fixed upon the Poliwag a few paces away, its round body trembling slightly when it noticed her staring, a reflection of the fear still lingering from their earlier encounter. Misty sighed again.
This wasn't going to be an easy conversation.
"We need to talk" she whispered gently, her heart racing as she approached it. Crouching down as to appear less intimidating, she met the small blue creature's cautious gaze, "I really need to apologise".
The Poliwag blinked slowly, clearly torn between curiosity and fear. Misty's breath caught in her throat as she saw the uncertainty in its eyes.
"I'm really sorry about what happened in the forest. I shouldn't have surprised you like that" the orange haired girl's voice was gentle, each word laced with sincerity, "You must've been scared."
To her relief, the Poliwag bobbed its head, a subtle acknowledgment that it understood.
"Poliwag" the adorable little Water Type Pokemon responded, its tone a mix of unease and acceptance.
A small spark of hope ignited within Misty, and she continued.
"Melanie told me your old trainer got rid of you" the Water Type Pokemon Specialist continued softly and sympathetically, a hint of curiosity entering her tone now that she knew that the small creature wasn't too reluctant to speak with her, "Was it really because he thought you were too weak?"
The Poliwag's expression shifted, sadness etching itself into its features.
"Poli..." the Tadpole Pokemon whispered, its eyes lowering as it confirmed her question mournfully.
Misty felt the weight of its pain settle over her like a dark cloud.
"You know, some trainers can be insensitive. But not all of us are mean like that" she reassured, allowing a small giggle to escape her lips. It felt strange to find humour amidst the heaviness of the moment, but somehow, it lightened the air between them, "And after seeing how much of a fight you put up against my Starmie earlier, I certainly don't think you're weak. You just need to find a trainer who understands you better".
As she spoke, Misty felt an unexpected connection forming, one that transcended the traditional trainer-Pokémon bond. She could sense the Poliwag's heart, its longing to be accepted, and it resonated with her own fears of becoming someone solely focused on victory.
"Poliwag" the Tadpole Pokemon swallowed hard.
"Anyway, I'm really sorry for what I did, and I hope we can become friends" Misty whispered just as softly. In an unexpected turn, she felt tears prick at her eyes, a wave of empathy washing over her as she gazed down at the little creature.
"Poli! Poliwag!"
To the orange haired girl's astonishment, Poliwag leaned forward, its fin-like tail brushing against her cheek, as if to wipe away her tears.
"Huh?" Misty gasped, taken aback by the unexpected gesture.
"Poliwag!" the Pokemon exclaimed, a bright smile illuminating its round face. It was an unspoken understanding, an acceptance of her apology. In that moment, she felt a warmth spreading within her, a sense of solace amidst the uncertainty.
"You're sweet, Poliwag. I am sorry. All I think about lately is getting stronger as a trainer and winning" Misty looked not only a shamed by her own admission but also a little concerned about it, "I hope I'm not becoming heartless".
"Poli!"
The Poliwag gently nuzzled against her, catching Misty off-guard, a comforting gesture that assured her she was still capable of compassion. The young girl smiled. She knew that she truly was forgiven now. Then, as if to seal the newfound bond of friendship and understanding between human and Pokemon, Misty held out her hand as if to pet the small blue creature before her. She held back though, letting the decision remain with Poliwag as to whether or not he was comfortable enough to let her touch him. The Water Type Pokemon quickly reached a decision, then smile.
"Poli!" he squeaked happily as he took a smile forward.
Misty beamed, genuinely and utterly relieved that she had managed to repair the damage that she had inflicted earlier that day, all because she'd allowed her own excitement to run away with her. The young girl reached out even further with her fingers, poised to meet Poliwag half way so that she gently pet his head, and then...
And then everything went to hell...
"BULBASAUR!"
Misty's heart raced as the sound of rapid footsteps echoed like a thunderstorm, drawing nearer with an urgency that sent her instincts into overdrive. Before the orange haired girl could react however, a blur of vibrant green and blue suddenly collided with her, sending her sprawling onto the forest floor with a startled yelp. Dazed, she blinked her vermillion coloured eyes against the sunlight streaming through the canopy, only to find herself face-to-face with the fierce glare of an angry Bulbasaur, its bulb brimming with latent energy. Misty's pulse quickened. This wasn't just any wild Pokemon, nor was it the familiar friendly figure of Meadow.
It was the guardian of these woods, a protector as formidable as it was loyal.
As the Bulbasaur positioned itself between her and the wild Poliwag with a fierce snarl, a wave of tension crackled in the air. Misty soon realised that a friendship with Poliwag would take more than a gentle touch; it would require courage in the face of the brewing storm.
Well, Misty was nothing if not courageous.
"Hey, it's rude to tackle people!" the orange haired girl shouted indignantly, her voice slicing through the tranquil forest air.
The wild Bulbasaur stood before her, its leafy crown swaying gently, its large ruby coloured eyes narrowed defiantly as gave the female human a hard stare.
Ash, ever the loyal friend, quickly echoed her sentiment.
"She's right!" the raven haired boy agreed, stepping in beside her, his face a mix of determination and disbelief.
Nolan also approached, his injured ankle causing him to hobble slightly, concern etching his brow.
"Are you okay, Misty?" he asked, glancing from her to the Bulbasaur, a species he had studied and admired during their countless adventures, considering his own beloved partner was one.
With a grateful nod, Misty accepted Nolan's outstretched hand, allowing him to help her regain her footing.
Together, the trio of young Pokemon trainers all faced the wild Bulbasaur, who stood its ground, a fierce protector of the nervous Poliwag that Misty had befriended just moments earlier. The air thickened with tension; the Bulbasaur growled, a low, rumbling sound that hinted at its determination.
Ash, never one to back down from a challenge, returned the glare.
"I know. You're just mad because I was going to beat you in the rematch I challenged you to. But you chickened out and ran off!" he taunted, his competitive spirit flaring up in the face of adversity.
Misty couldn't help but nod in agreement, her own competitive nature stirred by Ash's bravado.
"That must be it" she chimed in, her voice tinged with annoyance.
But standing between them, Nolan rolled his eyes, recognising the folly of their assumptions.
"Were either of you actually paying attention when I told you about this Bulbasaur before?" the golden haired boy said with a roll of his eyes, his tone dripping with mock exasperation, "Because if you were, you'd know there's no way Bulbasaur is angry just because it didn't accept Ash's challenge of a battle"
Meadow, who was stood beside him, looked at the other of her kind, her eyes bright with understanding. She turned towards the wild Bulbasaur, offering a tentative smile - one that was met with a hesitant but curious gaze in return.
"Bulba" Meadow chimed, clearly trying to bridge the gap between wild and tamed.
Ash and Misty, ignoring the small interaction between the two Grass Type Pokemon, exchanged confused glances.
"What do you mean?" they asked in unison, their intrigue piqued.
Nolan's expression shifted to one of patience, as he recalled Melanie's words about the wild Bulbasaur's nature.
"Remember how I said that Melanie told me that Bulbasaur is something of a guardian to the local wild Pokémon in this area?" the golden haired boy asked, only elaborating once both of his friends had nodded in confirmation, "Well, Bulbasaur probably got scared when it saw Misty so close to that Poliwag, especially considering that she tried to capture it earlier this morning. See how closely it's guarding it? Bulbasaur just thinks Poliwag needs protection, that's all".
His theory was meant with poorly-hidden disbelief.
"I doubt it" Ash scoffed, scepticism lacing his words, "I think I dented this Bulbasaur's pride, and now it's taking it out on Misty".
The raven haired boy's gaze hardened as he glowered down at the wild creature.
"Well, I won't stand for my friends being set upon like that!" the young up-and-coming Pokemon Master growled just as fiercely as the Grass Type Pokemon opposing him, "Let's see how tough you really are, Bulbasaur!"
In that moment, the Hidden Village... no, the whole forest held its breath, the tension palpable as two worlds collided - friendship and competition, guardian and challenger. The stage was set for a showdown where hearts would be tested, bonds would be forged, and lessons would be learned in the wild embrace of nature and camaraderie...
Or they would have, if not for a swift intervention.
Melanie's heart raced as she sprinted across the sun-dappled forest clearing, her breath coming in quick bursts while the whispers of the trees seemed to echo her urgency. The vibrant greens and browns of the Hidden Village surrounded her, a sanctuary for injured and abandoned Pokemon, but right now, it was beginning to feel more like a battlefield. The tension between Ash and the wild Bulbasaur crackled in the air, thick and electric, as if the very nature of this tranquil haven was being challenged.
"Please wait! Please!" the pretty blue haired young woman called out, desperation edging her voice. She knew that if she didn't intervene, the clash of wills could spiral out of control.
Melanie quickly positioned herself between Ash and the fierce Bulbasaur, its leafy bulb bristling with agitation, a guardian ready to fight for its territory.
"Everything that Nolan told you was true, Ash" the pretty blue haired young woman insisted, "Bulbasaur is only trying to protect Poliwag".
Ash's brows furrowed in confusion, his fiery spirit clashing with the need to understand. Misty's eyes widened, caught between surprise and concern, while Nolan stood back, a smug grin plastered on his face, like a Persian that had just cornered a particularly oblivious Rattata.
"Told you" the golden haired boy quipped, his voice light with playful mockery.
Melanie remained focused on the unfolding situation. In one swift motion, she scooped up the wild Bulbasaur, feeling the warmth and strength of the creature she had come to know so well. It nuzzled her affectionately, its anger fading as it recognised the familiar presence of its ally.
"It's just like I told Nolan" she said, her voice steadying as she glanced at her friends, "This Bulbasaur volunteered to guard our whole village".
Memories flashed through Ash and Misty's minds, the echoes of Nolan's earlier words swirling like leaves in the wind.
Melanie sensed a shift, a flicker of realisation that perhaps they had all misjudged the situation. With determination, she continued her appeal to hopeful quell the fighting before it could even start.
"It protects all the injured Pokemon whenever enemies try to attack them" the blue haired young woman explained, reiterating the same facts that she had explained to Nolan earlier that day, "Bulbasaur is the bravest and most loyal Pokémon I know".
She hugged the Grass Type Pokemon close.
Nolan beamed with triumph, his grinning face reflecting the sunlight filtering through the trees.
"You see, guys?" the golden haired boy smiled knowing at his two closest human friends, "I told you Bulbasaur is the unofficial guardian here at the Hidden Village. He was only looking out for Poliwag. Right, Bulbasaur?"
He leaned closer, his voice dripping with warmth and admiration.
The wild Bulbasaur cast a wary glance at Nolan, its distrust evident, but it nodded, its ruby red eyes betraying a hint of reluctant acceptance.
"Saur..." it murmured in response.
Misty's brow furrowed as she processed the revelation.
"So Nolan was right then" the Water Type Pokemon Specialist muttered softly under her breath, the realisation setting in now, "Bulbasaur only attacked me because it must've thought I was taking Poliwag away from the village".
Her voice was laced with regret, understanding dawning upon her like the morning sun breaking through a cloudy horizon. But the moment was short-lived as Bulbasaur jumped down from Melanie's arms, landing with a thud on the soft earth before Ash, its small body squared off in a defiant stance. It growled low, an unmistakable warning that sent a ripple of tension through the clearing.
"Bulbasaur, saur, Bulbasaur..." Bulbasaur growled low, an unmistakable warning that sent a ripple of tension through the clearing.
The words were clear, a challenge echoing in the air.
"Now what?" Ash's confusion deepened, his brows knitting together.
The wild Bulbasaur's fierce demeanour was unyielding, and Melanie's heart sank. A worried look alit the pretty blue haired young woman's delicate features.
"Bulbasaur doesn't like Pokemon trainers..." she explained, urgency creeping into her voice once more, "It wants you to leave the village now".
"But we're not here to capture Pokemon!" Misty protested, stepping forward, her determination unwavering, "We want to help you!"
Melanie backed her up, her voice imbued with sincerity.
"It's true, Bulbasaur" the pretty blue haired young woman tried to appease the stubborn little creature that she had come to think of as her unofficial Pokemon partner, "These are our friends".
Yet, the wild Bulbasaur remained unconvinced, a tempest of loyalty and protectiveness coursing through it.
"Bulbasaur, I promised Melanie that we wouldn't capture any Pokemon here, and me and my friends all intend to honour that promise" Nolan chimed in, his tone a mixture of authority and reassurance, "We really don't mean you or any of the other Pokémon here any harm".
His own Bulbasaur Meadow echoed her support.
"Saur!" the golden haired boy's most faithful partner tried to convince the other example of her species in the forest clearing, "Bulba! Bulbasaur!"
But even their united front couldn't penetrate the resolve of the little green creature.
The wild Bulbasaur, guardian of its Hidden Village, stood defiantly, its vines coiling tightly, ready to strike at anyone who dared take so much as a step towards one of the wild Pokemon it saw as being its charges. Ash's brow furrowed as he took in the creature's fierce resolve.
"Bulbasaur was worried about the other Pokémon, so it decided to be the village bodyguard" the raven haired boy whispered, his russet coloured eyes wide with pure and unadulterated awe, "Now that's what I call bravery".
His admiration mingled with the tension crackling in the air. At his side, Nolan's grin broke through the seriousness of the moment.
"I know" the golden haired boy couldn't help but bob his head in agreement, "It's so admirable. Maybe that's just inherent to their species, eh Meadow?"
His playful nudge to his own Bulbasaur elicited a cheerful "Bulba!" from her, a reminder of the camaraderie that blossomed between trainers and their Pokemon.
Turning back to the wild guardian, Ash felt a spark of longing.
"It would be great to have a Pokemon like that" he whispered, captivated by the raw spirit of the Bulbasaur ready to defend its home, and much more importantly, its friends.
It really was a shining example to them all.
Floating high above the emerald canopy of the beautiful forest, a ginormous inflatable stadium basked in the golden glow of the sun, its bright colours painting a surreal picture against the crystal-clear sky. Helium balloons, massive and vibrant, cradled the colossal structure, tethering it to the heavens like an eccentric cloud.
Below, the inhabitants of the Hidden Village, a sanctuary known for sheltering injured and recovering Pokemon, continued along with a relatively peaceful day, unaware of the pandemonium about to unfold.
On the roof of this whimsical monstrosity stood three notorious figures, the criminal trio known as Team Rocket. The air crackled with mischief as Jessie, with her long magenta coloured hair cascading like a waterfall of rebellion, glanced over the edge, a gleam of mischief in her eyes.
"Ready, team?" she shouted, her voice ringing with the confidence of a maestro about to conduct a grand symphony of chaos.
James, smug as ever, adjusted his collar and flashed a dark grin, basking in the thrill of their plan.
"Let's give them a show they'll never forget!" he remarked, his eyes glinting with ambition.
Beside him, Meowth, the cunning feline with a penchant for mischief, licked his paw and nodded with determination.
The air was thick with anticipation as they prepared to recite their infamous motto, a ritual that had become a trademark of their audacious escapades.
"To protect the world from devastation!" Jessie proclaimed with fervour, her voice echoing across the treetops. The wind carried her words like a spell, wrapping around the unsuspecting creatures below.
"To unite all peoples within our nation!" James continued, his tone dripping with theatrical flair, envisioning their imminent success.
With every word, the excitement grew, fuelling their ambition as they prepared to launch their plan.
"To denounce the evils of truth and love!" Jessie, eyes sparkling with mischief, declared.
Some of the wild Pokemon down below, hearing the commotion, paused, a sense of foreboding washing over them as they looked up, uncertainty flickering in their eyes.
"To extend our reach to the stars above!" James completed the line, a sense of grandeur enveloping their lofty aspirations.
"Team Rocket, blast off at the speed of light!" Jessie shouted, her voice rising above the forest, a rallying cry for their impending chaos.
"Surrender now or prepare to fight!" James added, his confidence unwavering, a smirk plastered across his face.
"Meowth! Dat's right!" Meowth chimed in, his accent thick and proud, eager to stamp his mark on this audacious venture.
Another pitch perfect performance.
As their notorious motto echoed like a war cry through the canopy, Jessie gleefully cackled.
"We've said our lines" the magenta haired woman beamed with malicious delight, "Time to attack the village!"
James's grin widened, a glint of wicked glee dancing in his eyes.
"Those village idiots thought their measly traps would stop us" the cyan haired man sneered condescendingly down his nose, peering over the edge of the floating stadium they were currently riding on the back of, "They thought they had the home team advantage".
Jessie laughed, a sound laced with uncontained joy.
"No such luck" the female criminal chortled nastily, "We're the home team now!"
With a dark smirk, James twirled the fake rose he carried, lost in his own self-congratulation.
"I congratulate myself for this brilliant scheme" the cyan haired man smirked proudly, clearly enjoying stroking his own ego.
Meowth, ever eager to stake his claim in their grand design, happily chimed in.
"Don't forget! I suggested tying giant balloons on the stadium roof!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon interjected, the pride in his voice undeniable.
As the inflatable behemoth glided across the sky, the Hidden Village came into view, its picturesque charm contrasting sharply with the impending doom floating above.
CCCCCRRRRRAAAAASSSSSHHHHG!
With a thunderous impact that sent reverberations through the entire forest, the stadium landed, shaking the ground beneath it, heralding the chaos that was about to erupt.
Team Rocket's latest scheme was about to come to fruition.
Failure surely wasn't an option this time.
In the heart of the Hidden Village, where the lush green foliage intertwined with the vibrant colours of the various wild Pokemon, an ominous shadow fell across the clearing. The sun, once a beacon of warmth and joy, was suddenly eclipsed by a massive, floating inflatable stadium, its bizarre shape contrasting sharply against the serene backdrop of rustling leaves and singing birds. Balloons bobbed and swayed with a life of their own atop the gargantuan structure, casting strange silhouettes on the ground as it descended slowly but surely, like a monstrous balloon creature come to life.
Nolan's heart raced as he, Ash, Misty, Brock, and Melanie stood frozen, an uneasy mixture of fear and disbelief washing over them. The wild Bulbasaur, known for its fierce protectiveness of the area, watched from its spot between them, its large eyes wide with anxiety. The other wild Pokemon sensed the disturbance in their tranquil paradise, their instincts screaming that something was terribly wrong.
The earth trembled beneath their feet as the stadium landed with an ear-splitting thud, sending a ripple through the air that rustled the leaves and startled every creature in the vicinity.
"Grrr... Here we go again" Ash sighed, already bracing himself for the chaos to come.
Having fought Team Rocket more times than he and his friends could count, Nolan knew they were as persistent as they were ridiculous. However, nothing could have prepared him or any of the others for the spectacle above - Jessie, James, and Meowth, the infamous trio of trouble, standing atop the inflatable structure, grinning down at them like triumphant jesters from a twisted fairy-tale. Nolan frowned, his brow furrowing as he took in the sight.
"As if we didn't have enough problems to deal with today, without these idiots showing up on top of everything else!" the golden haired boy groaned. He shifted his weight, trying to alleviate the pressure on his bruised ankle, but the sharp throb reminded him that he was far from agile at that moment.
Jessie's laughter echoed like a siren call through the forest.
"Welcome to Jessie Stadium!" she announced, her voice dripping with theatricality, "It's the Team Rocket Pokemon challenge!"
The mischievous glint in her eyes promised trouble, while James rolled his eyes beside her, clearly exasperated by her flair for the dramatic.
"In case you've forgotten, the flying stadium was my idea!" the cyan haired man shot back, a hint of irritation lacing his words.
The banter between them was as familiar as it was frustrating, a dynamic that never seemed to change no matter how many times they thwarted their plans.
In a moment of misguided brilliance, Jessie brandished a remote control like it was the key to the kingdom. With a flourish, she pressed a button, and the atmosphere shifted; a gaping maw opened in the side of the stadium, revealing an enormous hose that snaked out like a Arbok poised to strike. The powerful vacuum unleashed a torrent of wind, sending leaves swirling into the air like confetti and creating a cacophony of panic.
"All Pokemon are invited to enter the stadium!" Jessie taunted, her grin widening as she revelled in the chaos they were about to unleash.
James, leaning into the villainous act, grinned darkly.
"Step right up!" he added with a sinister flair.
Meowth joined in the revelry, his laughter punctuating the air with a mocking tone.
"Yeah! We're not hosing you..." the Scratch Cat Pokemon trailed off with a nasty grin, before he quickly amended his statement, "Well, maybe we are!"
Down in the clearing, the friends exchanged wide-eyed glances, their horror palpable.
Brock, ever the pragmatist, turned to Nolan, desperation creeping into his voice.
"Err... How's that ankle of yours doing, Nolan?" the aspiring Pokemon breeder asked nervously.
The golden haired boy's icy blue eyes grew almost comically wide.
"Recovering! Very quickly!" Nolan shouted back, his voice strained as he fought against the pulling winds. The vacuum's force tugged at him, and for a moment, he felt like a leaf caught in a storm.
"Delighted to hear it!" Brock quipped, his humour a thin veneer over the panic building within him.
The situation was spiralling out of control, and the wild Pokemon around them were starting to panic, darting to and fro as they tried to evade the grasp of the relentless vacuum. With each passing second, the giant hose began to pull in everything within its reach, a swirling vortex of chaos that threatened to swallow their beloved Hidden Village whole. It hadn't captured any wild Pokemon yet, but the sound of frantic footsteps and rustling leaves spoke volumes.
Time was running out.
The group stood united, a makeshift line of defence against the impending doom, their hearts racing as they prepared to confront the threat. They had to act quickly; the tranquillity of the Hidden Village was at stake, and the wild Pokémon depended on them to fight back against the absurdity that was Team Rocket. With a shared glance, an unspoken understanding linked the five humans, and they were ready to face whatever ludicrous challenges lay ahead.
They had to succeed in protecting the wild Pokemon here at the Hidden Village.
They just had to.
The wind howled through the trees like a chorus of lost souls, desperate for escape from the chaos that loomed beyond the thicket.
Nolan, Ash, Misty, Brock, and Melanie immediately found themselves thrust into a frantic race against time, their hearts pounding in rhythm with the ominous whir of Team Rocket's sinister vacuum. It was a day that began with the promise of adventure, but now hung in the balance, teetering on the edge of calamity.
Before the group's horrified eyes, the wild Staryu writhed beneath the force of the makeshift hurricane, its points digging fiercely into the soft earth. Despite its lack of a typical face, the young trainers could see the fear mirrored in its body language.
"Star! Staryu!" it cried, its voice a sharp tremor that cut through the cacophony of the wind.
Ash's instincts kicked in like a well-practiced reflex; he couldn't stand by and watch.
Without a second thought, the raven haired boy all-but launched himself toward the struggling Water Type Pokemon, wrapping his arms around the creature as though it were the last vestige of hope in a darkening world.
"They never run out of ideas, do they?!" Ash's voice rang with determination, directed at the encroaching menace that was Team Rocket.
In that moment, he embodied the spirit of a hero, ready to protect not just his friends but every Pokemon they and Melanie had come to cherish.
Across the clearing, Brock was already in motion, his hands deftly scooping up the wild Magikarp that flopped helplessly in the pond.
"Hurry!" the aspiring Pokemon breeder shouted, urgency coursing through his veins, "Everybody get in the cabin!"
The log cabin stood like a fortress amid the chaos, its sturdy walls promising refuge from the storm of villainy outside.
Melanie, ever the beacon of calm under pressure, led the charge, cradling the wild Weepinbell like a precious treasure as she ushered the frightened Pokemon toward safety. The wild Caterpie, Paras, and even the multiple timid Rattata huddled close, their wide eyes reflecting their terror.
The air grew thick with anxiety as Nolan knelt down, arms wide open, a beacon of safety in the turbulent winds.
"Come here, Meadow! You too, Pikachu!" the golden haired boy shouted, his voice echoing through the clearing as his partner Pokemon and Ash's Pikachu fought valiantly against the gusts to reach him, "I'll keep you guys safe from those crooks!"
"Bulba..."
"Pika..."
Miraculously, Meadow and Pikachu both managed to reach him, fighting tirelessly against the winds that threatened to rip them away from their beloved humans, and carry them into the arms of the nefarious Team Rocket. They both collapsed weakly into the golden haired boy's embrace, utterly spent.
Nolan grimaced as he held Meadow and Pikachu tightly, his injured ankle protesting with every step. But the boy staggered forward, determination etched into his features as he joined Melanie, Brock, and the wild Pokemon inside the safety offered by the cabin. Relieved, Nolan continued to guard them both carefully.
He would not let anything take them away.
Meanwhile, back outside of the cabin and right in the heart of this turbulent situation, the wild Poliwag that Misty had befriended before all of this had kicked off squirmed in fear, its shrill cries piercing the air, drawing the Water Type Pokemon Specialist's attention. Her vermillion coloured eyes widened in horror at the small blue Pokemon's struggles.
"PPPPPOOOOOLLLLLIIIII!" it squealed, desperately trying to escape the vacuum's grasp.
It was no use though.
Helpless to do anything about it, Poliwag's small flailing body with lifted up into the air being dragged across the forest clearing towards it's impending doom. A sense of pure and unadulterated horror jolted her into action, and in an instant, Misty dashed forward, catching Poliwag's tail just before it was swept away. Misty mentally wiped her brow.
That had been way too close for comfort.
Cradling the trembling Water Type Pokemon against her chest, Misty offered a gentle smile, her voice warm and reassuring.
"Don't you worry about a thing, Poliwag" the orange haired girl whispered, her tone and expression both holding a resolute promise, "I've got you now, and I'm not gonna let you go. I promise".
Poliwag, feeling the safety of her embrace, nuzzled against her, the bond of trust that they had formed earlier only strengthening.
"Wag..." the Tadpole Pokemon whispered as it smuggled its new friend, "Poliwag…"
The tender moment between human and Pokemon was interrupted by the howling screaming their protest.
They wouldn't last much longer out here.
Sharing a look that spoke volumes of their joined resolution and utter determination to protects that couldn't help themselves, Ash and Misty, together, staggered toward the cabin, their arms heavy with the weight of responsibility. Staryu and Poliwag were counting on them after all. It took an extraordinary amount of effort to keep putting one foot in front of the other, but slowly but surely, Ash and Misty managed to cross the forest clearing, the wooden structure beckoning them like a beacon of hope, a light in the dark.
They made it.
Nolan, Brock and Melanie couldn't help but sigh in intense relief as Ash and Misty joined them inside of the log cabin. Just as they crossed the threshold, they placed Staryu and Poliwag on the ground, where the other Pokemon waited, their eyes wide with fear.
It was Nolan that broke the heavy silence first.
"Did… did everyone make it?" the golden haired boy asked, his voice tinged with worry as they quickly counted heads, relief washing over them like a gentle rain.
Unfortunately, the moment was short-lived.
"Oh no! Bulbasaur isn't here!" Melanie gasped, her heart sinking as realisation dawned.
Ash's gaze snapped toward the door, determination igniting within him.
He would not leave any of their friends behind. As he burst back outside, the chaos of the storm enveloped him yet again. The clearing transformed into a battleground against the fury of the unnatural, man-made storm, and there, amidst the swirling winds, was Bulbasaur, struggling valiantly against the pull of the vacuum.
"BULBA! BULBASAUR!" the little green creature cried out, its voice lost to the tempest.
No sooner had Ash taken a few steps to help when Bulbasaur was suddenly swept off its feet, pulled toward the gaping maw of the vacuum. From the doorway of the cabin, Melanie looked on in abject horror.
"NNNNNNNOOOOOOO! BBBBUUUULLLLBBBBAAAASSSSAAAAUUUURRRR!" the pretty blue haired young woman screamed, panic rising like a tidal wave.
Time slowed as Ash's heart raced... then a miracle happened.
An idea hit the young raven haired trainer like a lightning bolt, and his russet coloured eyes widened in realisation.
"BULBASAUR! USE YOUR VINE WHIP!" Ash bellowed over the howls winds he was fighting so valiantly against, desperation lacing his words, "I CAN SAVE YOU IF YOU USE YOUR VINE WHIP ATTACK!"
The command rang out, a lifeline amidst the chaos, and for a fleeting moment, Ash wondered if Bulbasaur would trust him.
It had to, the boy thought.
There was no other option. Thankfully however, the little Grass Type Pokemon that was in danger seemed to have reached the same conclusion.
"BULBASAUR!"
Time seemed to stretch as Ash watched Bulbasaur's eyes flash with determination, its earlier mistrust melting away as it obeyed. With a powerful flourish, Bulbasaur unleashed its vines, and Ash seized the opportunity, snagging hold of the green tendrils just as the winds howled even louder.
"Gotcha!" the raven haired boy exclaimed, relief flooding through him, "Nice job Bulbasaur!"
"Saur..."
For the first time since their paths had crossed, Ash saw something he never thought he'd see. A smile. A real genuine smile from Bulbasaur, and it was directed solely at him. The boy couldn't help but grin back at the little green creature.
He knew in that moment that the impossible had happened.
Trust had been forged between them.
With an equal determination to see all of them friends as well as themselves through this terrible situation, the human and the Pokemon ran back to the cabin, the wind howling like a wounded creature behind them. They had just barely made it inside before Nolan, almost overcome with relief at seeing them safely joining them in their shelter, slammed the door to the cabin shut behind them.
As the world outside trembled under the relentless roar of the vacuum, the four travellers and their new friends, a human and wild Pokemon alike, found themselves huddled in the cabin that felt more like a fragile lifeboat in a stormy sea. Nolan's heart pounded in sync with the howling winds, while Ash exchanged worried glances with Misty, her fingers tightly gripping his arm. Brock's brow furrowed, his mind racing with the awful possibilities, while Melanie pressed her ear against the door, straining to discern the chaos Team Rocket's machine was causing beyond. In that tense silence, a symphony of fears echoed in their minds, each wondering if this shelter would be their sanctuary... or their tomb...
Would they emerge from this nightmare unscathed?
There was precious little more that they could do, then simply wait and see...
And that marks the end of another chapter : )
Events are certainly moving along now, and I'm definitely feeling much better about everything is divided up chapter-wise. Beyond that however, I don't actually have much to say about this chapter content-wise, so why don't we just jump straight into the fun stuff, I.e. this week's voting topic : )
Once again, it's going to be an Encounter Voting Topic. I know we've really been gunning these lately, but I'm very keen to get some of these Pokemon decided before moving back to other voting topics. Right now I have a slightly different one in mind for next time, but we'll have to see how that plays out, as sometimes I change my mind as what to post as the Voting Topic at the very last minute. Anyway, this week's Encounter Voting Topic is another themed one, a theme which we actually have had before, in the last Nuzlocke. Here are the options you guys can vote between this time : )
Pokemon Options: -
Route 41: - Mantine - Male - Lax Nature - Water Absorb Ability
Route 47: - Chinchou - Male - Relaxed Nature - Illuminate Ability
Mt. Mortar: - Marill - Female - Timid Nature - Thick Fat Ability
Ecruteak City: - Poliwhirl - Male - Relaxed Nature - Water Absorb Ability
Safari Zone (Wetland): - Psyduck - Male - Brave Nature - Damp Ability
Yep, we're doing another Water Type Only Encounter Vote, just like I did during my Orange Islands Nuzlocke that one time : ) The main reason why I decided to group these Pokemon together because Nolan already has a ton of Water Type Pokemon, so this was an effort to limit him from getting too many more during the Johto Nuzlocke. Having said that though, there are a couple I actually wouldn't mind getting. In fact, there are two prospects in this Voting Topic I'd be very keen to add to the family ; ) It's really not up to me though, so please go leave your vote for one of these Pokemon in a review : )
And I think that's just about everything from me for this time. Thank you so much for reading this chapter and my story in general. I hope you are enjoying it all so far, and please consider leaving a review because I'd love to hear your comments and feedback : )
Until the next time, keep on reading : )