Pokemon: New Future - Adven. 1: Kanto

[LinkG07]

Pokemon: New Future
Adven. 1 – Kanto

Chapter 1: Touchdown! Kanto Beginnings.

The blustery winds whipped and blew in the morning sky. The sun was just rising and shined with a gigantic hint of orange, slowly rising over the horizon and mountains. A perfect beginning for a day of flying, but one group decided to take the call early. Flap, flap, flap went the enormous wings of an on coming bird Pokemon, carrying a small passenger on its back. It cawed out, voice echoing through the air and plain waking young and old creatures alike. From tree dwelling Pidgey and Caterpie, to grass trekking Rattata and Sandshrew. A Fearow was the majestic beast who flew high in the sky, carrying a young man for what seemed to be hours. The boy appeared to be asleep as he was spread across the gigantic back and wingspan of his transport, apparently not being phased by its super sonic call. Snoring away peacefully and possibly dreaming; dreaming of his future.

The Fearow’s feathers shimmered gorgeously in the rising sunlight, with a shining gold colored brown that could only be achieved by proper grooming. Its eyes were sharp and channeled towards the ground, telling that it wished to land. Extending its large claw like feet and talons it slowly made its decent down to the grassy plain below. Stroking its wings gently through the air, the Fearow tried its best to land as gently as possible, however still touching down with quite a big thud. Folding its wings, it quickly turned its neck to see if it had woken up the slumbering young man. Luckily, and amazingly, he was still asleep, snoring away like nothing even happened at all. Giving a relieved sigh, the over-sized bird tipped the boy off onto the ground, sealing the end to their flight.

Peck, peck, peck went the Fearow to the boy’s face as the back of his head met the grassy green. Still he slept despite being gently punctured by an elongated beak, only giving a small scratch to his nose and turning over. Fearow knew it had to make more of an effort with this sleeping rock of a boy, so it gaped open its beak, clamped down on his nose and squeezed. Pain shot all the way up to his brain and back, and the blood rushed to the front of his face waking him up instantly with a mighty howl.
“YeeeeOOOW!!”

He screamed, springing up and out trying to zone in to the source of his discomfort. Fearow had accomplished its mission and let go of the screaming boy. He was finally awake; the sun blasted in his eyes and he rubbed his nose trying to fight off the remaining grogginess. Arms up and out, he stretched out the last of his sleepy demons and realized where he was. He looked around trying to soak in all of the colors of the terrain; eyes absorbing the greens, browns, whites and blues. The sun was up and the birds were singing, he was just in time to the new day. After a long nights rest and a journey from far away, Landon finally landed in the world of Kanto.
“I made it?”

He indeed made it to the land of beginnings, the starting point for a majority of Pokemon trainers far and wide. Those who were native to this land used this as the prologue to their tale, however Landon was not native himself. Landon hailed from a far away city called Goldenrod; the capital city where the famous radio station broadcasts across the region. There happens to be a starting point in the land called Johto, however he chose this land so he could make a fresh start. A new beginning in a land with Pokemon he’s only heard of, as suggested by his father. Thoughts of his old man raced in his head as he couldn’t believe he had made it there all by himself, well, all with the help of his father’s Fearow of course.

“Abigail! I was having a nice dream till you woke me up, what gives?”

Abigail; The Fearow’s name and gender had been revealed all in an instant as Landon got in its face, irritated that it had disturbed his pleasant sleep. This caused Abigail to give out a guilty caw and lower its head. But Landon couldn’t get mad at it, it was the family transporter. In the family business for years along side his father in making round trips with cargo. It was also their friend and pet who was loyal to them from even its little Spearow days. Landon took Abigail by the head and cheeks and brought it closer, notifying that he was only kidding her; joking around. It was sort of a kink in his personality anyways.

“Aw, I’m only kidding. You must be tired from flying all the way from home huh?”

Abigail nuzzled and cooed at Landon’s familiar embrace; he always held it this way when he wanted to make it feel better. Abigail may have been quite an enormous bird, but it was as gentle as a Caterpie and would rarely ever become vicious. This meant it would be friendly towards anyone who didn’t seem threatening, making it the perfect Pokemon to get along with. Landon rubbed the comb on the top of its head knowing it was finally time to say good-bye.

“Now you be a good girl and take care of mom when you get home okay? Make sure to take your regularly scheduled breaks when flying and don’t overwork yourself.”

This was Abigail’s send off as it took Landon’s reminder of its daily schedule and left with mighty flap into the open blue. Calling out, showing that it would miss its owner, going back home to rest and maybe work another day.

Kanto bound was the young Landon of 10 years; Hair of silver, broad and spiked up and towards the back. Eyes green and glowing with the passion to finally start his journey. Clothed with only a thick white short sleeved zipper top, striped red across the chest, light blue pants striped sky blue above the knees, and finally red shoes to complete his own personal look. Slinging his red and white bag behind him, he finally took his first steps on new soil, up the hill to lay his eyes on the cornerstone of Kanto; Professor Oak’s Lab.

“That’s the place…”

There was little he could say as he saw the giant windmill that roosted atop of the Professor’s building. It was sitting on a hill almost being devoured by trees and bushes, almost as if his lab was blooming forth like a flower of science. Why was he standing there gawking? He was only a few feet away from talking to one of the many Pokemon pioneers and receiving his very first Pokemon. Sliding down the hill with little effort, Landon scampered to the front gates of the laboratory reaching a small box that was clearly used to communicate from the outside in and vice versa. Swallowing any hesitation he had, he pressed and held the button which sent a loud buzz to Professor Oak’s residence. Landon didn’t expect him to answer right away. In fact, Landon prepared to wait at least a few minutes to receive an reply from the other side due to him believing that the Guru of Kanto was along in his years.

“Yes, who is it?”

Landon was wrong. He’d gotten an answer much quicker than he expected. It at least had to be 30 seconds, tops. He stuttered and stumbled over his words, thinking before hand that he was prepared, but clearly he was not.

“Um Professor Oak, sir, my name is Landon Garrison and I’m a new Pokemon trainer. Can I come in?”

There was no answer. Maybe he didn’t hear him? Or was there someone already there who had his attention at the time? The latter would soon be more logical as he could hear two people conversing softly inside through the speaker.

“Ah yes, Gordon’s boy! Come in, come in please. I’ve been expecting your visit.”

Before Landon knew it, the tall steel bars began to open up and fold outward, granting him access to the stairs. Things were looking good so far in his mind, he could just feel that pokeball in his hand containing the young but powerful creature inside. The top was reached and the knob was turned to the front door for Landon to come inside. Quite a cozy place, peaceful, Landon instantly felt a sort of sanctuary vibe forcing him to enter slowly and quietly with fear that he might disturb someone who was working.

“Hello? Professor Oak?”

Landon softly said trying to find his way from room to room; rooms with book shelf next to book shelf of novels, journals, albums and magazines. There was pottery on the coffee tables as well as mugs filled with tea; it was still warm so they hadn’t been away from that room for very long.

“Landon, in here son!”

Luckily the door that Professor Oak was calling from was only a few steps away, with Landon stepping through with little hesitation. There he finally saw the famous Pokemon Lab of Professor Oak. Machines and equipment everywhere to accomplish all of a researchers needs, shelves with pokeballs, transfer machines, communication devices, and…

Landon froze and saw something that he didn’t want to on his first day as a Pokemon trainer; or at least someone. He narrowed his eyes and balled his fists as he burned a hole through the one guy he had a sour taste towards: Toru Jun-Rei, of the Jun-Rei Family Dynasty. His hair was a symbol of his family’s heritage as it was braided all the way down below his waist into one big tail. His clothing was shear silk and was clean from top to bottom from his golden dragon sown vest customized over a black long sleeve hood shirt, and his pants which were made personally to look like jeans. His shoes were even high caliber despite even looking like normal green tennis shoes.

“Landon! Hey buddy, it’s been so long since we’ve seen each other! How’ve you been? How’s your pops?”

“…Toru.”

“Ready to start our Pokemon journey? Ah, the starting point of it all. First Pokemon, first pokedex, first steps to becoming one of the icons in the stars! A trainer among trainers, a battle champion! Are you excited? Are you ready to rock n’ roll?”

Toru’s arm was hooked around Landon’s neck as he uncomfortably tried to help Landon visualize their future and their journey, almost as if he was going with him. Landon was planning on going alone from the very beginning and Toru was definitely not one of his consideration for a traveling companion, even if was going with friends. Landon slowly removed Toru’s arm and eased away from him as he didn’t want him to be so close. The reason to this certain bitterness however was currently unexplained.

“Sorry Toru, but this bird is flying solo. And even if I wasn’t, I certainly wouldn’t wanna go along with you.”

Landon was completely up front with his feelings towards his seemingly friendly acquaintance. A history was woven between them obviously, and it was woven into knots; knots that were clumped in tangles and loose ends.

“Now, now boys there will be no confrontation in this laboratory.”

And the man himself was finally revealed: Professor Oak. He was just as the books described him. Just like the pictures Landon’s seen. Sure a new wrinkle here and there, but it was really him! On the outside he was calm and only showed a hint of amazement; however on the inside, Landon was doing back flips off the corridors of his brain. The famous Professor Oak in the flesh.

“Landon Garrison, I’ve heard many things about from your father.”

“About that, you knew my father?”

“Oh yes, me and Gordon are sort of pen-pals. He’s delivered so many packages and cargo to my lab we’ve had plenty of time to talk about our lives over tea. You can’t imagine the amount of things we had in common when it came to Pokemon.”

Landon couldn’t believe his ears, his dad friends with Professor Oak. It made him feel special as he was the son of the guy who was friends with the famous researcher of Kanto. His inner fandom slowly began to slip out but he quickly regained himself trying to look professional for his first impression with him, but Toru on the other hand noticed right away and completely called him on it.

“Don’t blow a fuse Lanny, its not that serious. Professor Oak makes plenty of friends so feeling special about something like this is kind of silly if you ask me.”

“Why you-!

“That is enough, both of you!”

Landon had it up to the roof with Toru and he wasn’t even in his presence for fifteen minutes. A perplexing relationship indeed. Professor needed to keep order as there was business to attend to. Both of these young men were here for one thing and he was the authority figure who was supposed to prepare them for their thrilling and even dangerous adventure on their own. Leading them by his hands he brought them over towards a module in the middle of the room; a capsule of sorts that held 3 spherical objects inside them. Red and white balls that bared elemental insignia for what dwelled inside them. These were pokeballs: containment units used to capture and keep Pokemon inside. Landon had seen these everywhere in his young years and always saw his father holding them, or shipping them to another location in his job.

“Now let’s get down to business. These pokeballs contain three starting Pokemon in which you will choose from that I have hand picked personally. You two hail from a different region, it would be expected that you don’t know what is in these units, am I correct?”

“Actually sir, I’ve done plenty of research myself to know that-“

“-these pokeballs contain the only creatures that can be obtained in this region without any means of capture: Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle. It is possible to catch these three Pokemon in the wild, however doing so is a rigorous task that may take even years to accomplish.”

Toru had rudely interrupted Landon’s response in a way that seemed very smug. Judging by how Landon’s head was steaming hot, it would mean that this would indeed be one of the reasons why Landon is so sour about him. Balling his fist as if he were about to start a fight, Landon restrained himself as much as he could, gritting his teeth at how much of a pompous jerk Toru was being. But Toru didn’t want any confrontation as he slowly waved his hands as a signal to not attack, however in a way that showed no fear, only extreme confidence.

“Well then Toru, since we both already discussed which Pokemon you had an interest in, it would only be fair to let you choose first, so that Landon can take his time to select his. That is, if he doesn’t already know which Pokemon he wants.”

“No sir, I know.”

“Step aside Lanny, since I’m gonna be pulling most of the weight in both our journeys, it’s only right for me to take the first pick. Besides, you were late to the party by my watch. Real trainers are on time, on the hour, by the hour so I suggest you follow my example if you want to be as punctual as me.”

There was that nickname again. It burned him inside and out when hearing it come from Toru’s mouth. Only one person called him by that name, and Landon hasn’t seen them for years. A childhood friend who he spent a lot of time with. Toru only called him by that name when he wanted to mess with his head, after hearing his other friend call him that. Landon thought about all the instances of when Toru called him “Lanny” to make fun of him, or just to get under his skin when he lost at a game or one upped him in some sort of event. Memories of their childhood flashed in his eyes as he saw Toru reach for one of the pokeballs in the capsule. However the fluffy memories of when they were tots would soon be shoved out by wonder; he wondered what Pokemon Toru picked and hoped to the heavens that he didn’t pick the one he wanted after all the research he put in before his trip.

“Ah yes, Squirtle. A fine choice if I do say so myself. Its shell will certainly come in handy when defending against attacks in battle. I do remember you telling me that you used one when you were young over tea.”

Squirtle, good. Landon gave a big sigh knowing that his selection was indeed safe. All the worries washed away like the tide of the ocean. Landon was ready to choose his very first Pokemon, he was so close he could practically taste it. He’s handled Pokemon before, however he’s never owned one himself. In his travels with his father, Landon had worked along side him trying to understand what Pokemon truly were. Tools? The thought had crossed Landon’s young mind prior, however his father showed him that Pokemon were living breathing creatures who thrived and worked just as hard has humans. They worked, they cleaned, they played, they slept, they loved, they had families; they were just like him.

“Landon it’s your turn, choose wisely son.”

“Um sir, if you don’t mind, could you possibly, let them out? You know, so I can see them up close.”

“Oh why sure. That’s quite a splendid idea if I do say.”

Taking both containers in hand, the Professor proceeded with Landon’s idea. With just the press of the silver button in the center, the contents of the balls explode forth in a brilliant flash of light. Pure energy shooting from the inside to the floor all in an instant. It happened so fast, Landon almost missed it. All that was left was the beautiful white lights that began to morph and shape into figures; figures that were living breathing creatures. As the light faded around the two small animals, the first image Landon caught was a flame, a flame on the tip of an orange lizard’s tail. It was cute as it said its name, baring its tiny sharp teeth and blinking its big blue eyes: “Charmander!”

Landon was completely awe struck as he saw the little lizard speak. Landon had only seen a Charmander in pictures or heard about them in stories of his father’s travels. It was such a thrill to see it there in the flesh. It didn’t stop there. Landon’s eyes wondered towards the other choice that was available for all starting trainers. It was an odd looking dinosaur like thing, or was it a plant? Reseachers say that they don’t even know themselves, but this individual creature said its name softly notifying that at least part of it was an animal: “Bulbasaur!” Yet another Pokemon Landon has seen only in pictures and heard from in stories. The experience was like none other, Landon knew out of both which one he was gonna choose but looking at them like this made his decision that much more harder. They both looked so promising.

“Wow, would you look at that, Charmander and Bulbasaur. I can’t believe this.”

“You act like this the first time you’ve ever seen a Pokemon before. I mean really, this shouldn’t be so surprising to you. Nonetheless, I’m guessing you wanna see my choice so I’ll let you have more time for you moment of drooling.”

Landon was too star struck to process what Toru had said and only heard “See my choice…” while the rest was fuzz and fluff. It’s a good thing as well, since it would have ruined this great moment for Landon. Toru sighed in surrender to the moment and unleashed his choosen Pokemon with the push of a button. The light leaped out of the ball and danced around on the floor, slowly forming and fading into what looked like a blue turtle. A little blue turtle with a red shell and a curled tail, even cuter than the last two he witnessed. Landon couldn’t help but feel jealous, but there was nothing he could do as he already made his choice long ago. “Squirtle!” it said, raising its arms to its owner as it looked up at him with its dark red eyes.

Was Toru gonna treat this thing just as bad as Landon? Was he gonna talk down to it saying how small it is, how he think it looks fat? Or maybe he was going to change his mind and choose one of the “cooler,” looking Pokemon; but no. Toru just smiled and accepted the cute little turtle’s request to be picked up. In that instance, Toru seemed like a decent person, almost as if his heart melted. Or maybe Toru is really only a huge pain to Landon. This raises more questions to why Toru treats Landon the way he does. But the moment didn’t call for sourness as the boy of royalty held the tiny turtle close hugging it as it hugged back happily. They both had quickly built a bond which couldn’t help but warm the room with an aura of good feeling.

“Now you said you had already chosen which Pokemon you wanted to start with, did you not Landon?”

“Yes sir. I did.”

Landon’s eyes immediately turn towards the barer of the flame. Its tail was almost hypnotic as he bent down to get a closer look at the little Charmander. It almost didn’t notice him but Landon managed to catch its eye. It was a curious little one as it moved in closer to the Landon, with thoughts of who he was and what he was doing so close.

“Hey little guy, My name’s Landon. Now I’m new at this whole thing, but I know if I choose you, we’d soon be great friends. What do ya say?”

Landon took little time to extend his hand towards the flame tailed lizard, however he didn’t take in account that the Charmander may think his hand is food; which it did. Landon’s hand was almost made Pokemon chow as the Charmander chomped its tiny mouth, almost as if it were striking to attack. Landon’s obvious reaction would be to yank his hand back in fear. Sweat jetted from his forehead as he held his hand away from the Charmander’s reach. How embarrassing. Landon could only think of the snarky quips that would leave Toru’s mouth after a scene like that. The thoughts and lines simply made him cringe, hoping he wouldn’t say anything at all, but yet again, he was wrong.

“Nice move Lanny. Guess I have more of an effect on these little guys than you do. And by that, I mean not being their next meal.”

“Now, now Toru, let Landon go at his own pace.”

“Yeah, I guess I have overstayed my welcome, so I think its time for me to bid you both farewell. So Professor Oak, its been really great meeting you, but I can take it from here. Thanks for the Pokedex, I’ll be putting it to good use. And Landon: I’ll let you know when I see you-know-who during my journey ahead of you. Catch ya!”

And with that final line, Toru saluted off and left the lab with Squirtle in arms. The last thing both Professor Oak and Landon would see of him would be his signature Cow-tail whipping across the corner. A breeze of relief filled Landon’s head as that major distraction was finally out of the way. Now all that was left was to get the Charmander to accept him as a trainer and not a snack. He had to try again, and he hoped that this time he would get it right. But he would soon find out that he didn’t even need to anymore.

Landon soon found himself to be the center of attention; both the Bulbasaur and Charmander were showing their affection towards the new trainer, rubbing and hugging themselves against his legs. Charmander didn’t think Landon was food, he was just playing which was made clear as Landon finally got a chance to pet it across his head. Its skin felt quite scaly, yet smooth as his hand rubbed back and forth atop of its crown. Landon was forced to do the same for the ever so friendly Bulbasaur which felt just as smooth as the Charmander.

“Well it seems both Pokemon have taken a liking to you Landon. That’s quite a sight.”

“Yeah it seems so, but I can’t take both of them. It wouldn’t be fair to the next trainer who came.”

Decision time: Landon took the Charmander under the arms and lifted it up cementing his choice of his very first Pokemon. A lively little fellow that waved around and kicked in glee as it was suspended in the air. Giggling like a child, it showed that it was full of life and ready to take on anything that was ahead of him, or was unaware.

“I choose this energetic little guy.”

“Ah, very good young lad. Charamander is quite an interesting choice. Its fire attacks are quite powerful. However I must warn you it’s quite a rigorous Pokemon to train. There will be many bumps and bruises on your journey with him, so you’ll need to work extra hard and take special care of it.”

“I understand.”

Landon perfectly knew what lied ahead if he chose the tiny fire breather. This little guy would soon evolve, and if not trained properly, it would rebel; or worse yet, turn on him. Those images had to be erased from his mind as he saw the little bundle of joy in his hands. It was too cute to be such a nasty beast, but it would be inevitable if he wasn’t careful. Something had to snap him out of his thoughts of the future, and there was just the thing: Charmander escaped his grasp and leaped in his face, hugging it with its entire body. A show of the utmost affection for its new trainer. It may not like or listen to him in the future, but for now, it was excited to be with its new trainer. Landon couldn’t breathe however and had to remove it, despite finding it very amusing; he laughed in response. However, not all was happy about this pairing. Bulbasaur was left in the dark. It watched as Landon chose the other one over it and it lowered its head in sadness and defeat, giving a soft and sad “Bulba…”

Landon couldn’t help but notice the rejected Pokemon as it stopped its show of affection. Bulbasaur kicked its front legs across the slick floor and stared depressingly at the reflection of its gloomy expression . Landon felt terrible as he thought about the situation more, in fact, the thought of a situation like this had already came across his mind. Despite being regretful of his decision, he had a back up plan:

“Hey, hey, don’t feel bad little fella’. I’m very sorry I didn’t pick you, but cheer up! I’m sure another trainer will come by and take way better care of you then I ever could.”

This inspiring speech cheered the grass starter up and granted it a big smile on its face. It quickly got over its rejection and happily acknowledged his apology. It even goes as far as to leap head on into him, completely knocking him over with Charmander in hand. While grounding the new trainer, it proceeded to lick his face in a new show of affection, rendering Landon immobile due to having one Pokemon on his chest, and another tucked in his arm. Charmander was quite amused by this, clapping its hands together while it watched its new owner get a face bath.

“It appears even though you’ve made your choice, you’ve made a new friend as well. It’s a rare treat to see trainers having that affect on Pokemon, even when it’s their first time. Although it could just be Bulbasaur, she always was a handleful.”

She? The Bulbasaur was female. What a big surprise, though not an entirely big surprise since it was drenching his face with its tongue. Not only that, its voice did have a feminine tone to it; soft and innocent. Landon just noticed, and it all started to come together like one nice big puzzle. As Landon convinced the plant Pokemon to stop, it was time to say good-bye. Back in the ball it needed to go, ready for the next trainer to come and see it. Stroking his hand across its head, Landon said a silent farewell to Bulbasaur, but in his gut, he had a strong feeling that it wouldn’t be the last he saw of it. It warmed his heart that it was so friendly to him, despite first meeting him. The red laser flew from the Pokeball, enveloping Bulbasaur leaving it only seconds to give one last cry: “Bulbasaaaur!”

Red laser retracting back, it was gone; back to its slumber. Back to business: Landon had his Pokemon, next on the agenda was to acquire the device that allowed him to catalog the numerous amount of creatures that lived out in the world: The Pokedex. A portable red machine that scanned, processed and numerically categorized all the Pokemon in the Kanto region. It was an essential tool that was needed and given to every Pokemon trainer that was starting off and he was about to receive his very own.

“If only your father could see you now, he’d say how proud he was to see his boy finally growing up and going off on his own. Gordon talked about this day almost constantly and it’s a real shame that he can’t be here to see this very important day. But I know that he’s extremely busy in his trips. Nevertheless, it’s time for me to give you the most important instrument for your travels.”

Before Landon knew it, he was being handed the tiny red Pokemon encyclopedia, looking brand new as if it were freshly manufactured. It may have been just that as Landon caught a whiff of it, recognizing its particular scent. It smelled just like the boxes his father would ship and deliver. There was no doubt about it: This Pokedex was delivered by his dad. It was as if it were sitting on that table waiting for him the entire time. Almost as if, his father was personally giving him the Pokedex. Landon could feel his father’s presence in the room and it made him feel safe, wrapping his fingers around the device and happily taking it in his possession.

“Thank you sir, I’ll do my best to gather as much data as possible for you. I know there’s a lot you already know, so I’ll walk the extra mile to find out new and even strange occurrences in the world.”

“Good, good, I’ll be looking forward to your call Landon. Now, do you have any Pokeballs?”

“Yes sir, my dad literally gave me a sack full of them so I would be prepared for the future.”

“Great, off you go then. Lots of luck.”

“ It was an honor meeting you.”

“Oh and Landon, about Toru: He’s quite a high brow young man, but don’t let his childish jabs get to you. He will travel and train his way and you will travel and train your way, simple right?”

“Yes, I’ll keep that in mind. Thank you.”

Landon was off, with the wave of the Professor behind him and his very first Pokemon sitting on his shoulder, enjoying the ride. Out the door and down the stairs, once he sets foot outside the gates, those will be his very first steps as a true Pokemon trainer. He wanted to savor the moment so he stopped just shy of the boundary. Taking a deep breath, Landon prepped his mind for the moment that would change his life forever. He was ready, he was focused and his Charmander bit his ear.

Screaming out in pain, the only thing he could hear was the childish laughter of the orange lizard that sat up high and without even realizing it, he had stepped outside the gate. Not what he intended but it was too late. That playful act of comedy from his Charmander was a total foreshadowing of it becoming a handful in the future. But that was the fun of it all. A challenge for his journey across the continent. It seemed like good fun on paper, however it would also be a huge pain. And a handful like him, needed to a proper name.

“You’re a wily little guy aren’t ya? Why don’t I give you a name? Would you like that?”

Charmander had no problem with having name as it waved its arms happily without a care in the world, and that was permission enough for him. The thoughts of the right name racked in his brain as he stared into its baby blues; its cute little baby blues. He wanted to think of a name that was both nice for its cute appearance, but would also sound cool and proper even when it evolved. However, the more he thought about it, the harder it was to think of one. For minutes, he was literally at a loss.

“Man, I guess this is a bit harder than I thought. Let’s see: I was thinking Flare, then again there’s already Flareon. Or maybe Flame, but then it’d sound weird when you finally learn Flamethrower. Man, there’s gotta be something. How about… Spot. Hotspot!”

Landon had thought of the appropriate name, all in an instant. Charmander, still without a care in the world, responded to this name with a peppy “ Mander!” It appeared to like the name and even somewhat poked fun at it by wagging its tail and sticking its tongue out. Landon knew Charmander was messing around with him, so he laughed and held him up higher.

“Then it’s settled, Spot it is.”

The road was before him, and time was not against him. Nothing was holding Landon back from walking down that road and never looking back. The future was now, and there was no more gathering data, no more research, no more training for the moment. Landon Garrison was officlaly a Pokemon Trainer, and nothing could stop him. Charmander slung in his arms, Landon walked; walked where the trees passed over his head and where the road seemed like it went on for miles. It was quiet. It felt like a trainer hadn’t gone through there for a while now, well besides Toru. Mysteriously, this made Landon quite happy as he walked down the dirt road. He felt special that he got there without having to deal with other trainers who had gotten there first, or who would fight with him over what pokemon he was gonna take. Smooth sailing there, and here.

“I’m gonna make you proud dad.”

----------------------------

It was noon, the day was still young and Landon was long gone, but in his place was someone new. Another trainer finally received Professor Oak’s last pokemon; Bulbasaur. The trainer left the gate with confidence, violet colored shoes firmly planted, and they’re eyes on the Pokeball, marked with the grass insignia. A smile graced their face as they turned to the direction that the young Landon had traveled as if they had intentions, and those intentions were to follow. Almost maliciously the trainer muttered words that could be read as disturbing:

“Gotcha…”

[Fisheye]

This is nice. I've been looking for a good trainer fic for a while, and I've finally found it! Nice job!
Now, on to the review.
Honestly, there were quite a few mmistakes. Mostly misspelled words, nothing a second read wouldn't fix. It's a bit earlly to seriously say whether this will be a good fic, but it has potential. You have a nice twist around the usual 'new-trainer-get-pokemon-in-pallet-and-travel-with-a-rival' plot. You've got that, with their own little backgrounds. And that mysterious trainer at the end... Who is he/she? I feel bad for Bulbasaur.
All in all, a pretty solid first chapter. I can't wait to see what you have in store. Good luck!

[Llama_Guy]

Bagh, too tired to read it all now. What I read seemed nice, but you should get a proofreader to check it through. Also, a minor quirk:

“Now you be a good girl and take care of mom when you get home okay? Make sure to take your regularly scheduled breaks when flying and don’t overwork yourself.”

Fearows are supposed to be able to fly without ever having to rest =P

[LinkG07]

Originally Posted by Llama_Guy

Bagh, too tired to read it all now. What I read seemed nice, but you should get a proofreader to check it through. Also, a minor quirk:

Fearows are supposed to be able to fly without ever having to rest =P

Thanks for the comments ^^ I'll be sure to try harder when checking on my work. Sometimes I just wanna get it out since I'm excited for what you guys are gonna say :P

Oh about Abigail: She takes regular rests, meaning she's clocked by his father on a schedule. Its sort of a rule for her. Don't worry, she likes a good beauty nap every now and then, and it wouldn't be out of the question for her to rebel over it a little. Why do you think Landon had to remind her?

Anyways, The next chapter is currently in production so stay tuned. I plan to go on a roll, so expect chapters all this week. May goal will be five by Sunday.

[Fisheye]

Alright! Good, it's nice when chapters come out regularly. But neer rush it; you should give your best, and extract every grain that you can extract from your chapters before you put it out for the rest of the world to read.
Not to sound preachy. I can't wait for the chapters though. hahhaa..

[LinkG07]

Pokemon: New Future
Adven. 1

Chapter 2: Viridian Viridian. No Time, Like First Times.

Day 1 – Leaving everything behind, our hero Landon is now living his Pokemon Trainer dreams. Quietly hiding in the bushes, scouting for a certain creature that he’s heard is very common in these grassy areas. So common, they practically fly right into your face. Birds; little short chubby looking birds that hopped around trying to eat tiny bits of whatever they could find on the grass and dirt. These common animals are referred to as Pidgey. Flying Pokemon that are able to whip up wicked winds just by flapping they’re tiny wings. Able to fly at great speeds and catch tiny prey with they’re little claw like feet, but it is said that these bird Pokemon do not like confrontation. Flying away to see another day, instead of fighting. This made them easy, yet elusive targets to capture in Pokeballs.

Landon moved the leaves he nested in to the side to get a better look of the area. No sign of a Pidgey yet, but he did hear one on his way over. He had to be patient. One would show up eventually as there were possibly a few nests in the trees around him. Landon was confident he’d see the pudgy bird, but he wanted to reassure himself; speed up the process. There was candy bar in his pocket. He originally wanted to save it for later since there was already a bite taken out of it, but it may be the perfect bait to get a Pidgey. Fully unwrapping the chocolate treat, he gently tossed it out of the bush he hid himself in. He threw it far enough not to cause any suspicion, but close enough to get the jump on the possibly clueless bird.

Fifteen minutes and still nothing. Landon slowly began to lose hope and wondered if the Pidgey were even home. Did they already see him? That was it wasn’t it? They were already on to him. Landon punched part of the bush in frustration as the speculation devoured his brain. But wait, his brain was conscious enough to hear the sound of good news. It was the flutter of wings. Could it be, possibly, maybe? Yes, a Pidgey landed right in front of his location, interested in the candy bar. Examining the chocolate all around, the Pidgey proved it wanted to treat its sweet tooth. With all of the head twists and turns out of the way, it finally pecked, pecked, then took a bite.

He had him now. Landon had the Pidgey in his sights and soon it would be in his grasp. Slowly taking out an empty Pokeball, Landon locked on to his target. He enlarged the ball from its shrunken portable state with the press of the silver button, and he took a deep breath, ready to capture his first Pokemon . He had to be as careful as possible, because even the slightest bit of noise would alert the Pidgey and provide a seventy percent chance of it escaping. Quiet, careful, slow-

“I got ya now! You’re mine!”

And with that rash and surprising outburst, the Pidgey took the bar, and bolted; the Pidgey flew away. A cold chill of awkwardness blew by and Landon lowered his head in shame hoping no one, absolutely no one saw that lame display to catch a Pokemon. Luckily, he was all alone in the field.

Back to square one. No Pidgey. Landon had to use a new tactic to capture these slick birds. There’s a perfectly good chance that since the Pidgey saw this display to capture it, it would warn other Pidgey. But there’s also a good chance it wouldn’t do this as well. Landon scratched his head trying to figure out a new strategy to use since his old one was ruined by his single moment of impatience and excitement. Pulling out yet another candy bar from his pocket, the gears in his head began to move, hatching up a new plan. He put it together piece by piece in his mind as he took a bite of the bar. He almost had the perfect new plan, that is, until the Pidgey came back. But it didn’t come back to apologize for taking his candy. It came back to take his other one.

With lightning fast reflexes, the Pidgey swooped down and snatched Landon’s candy bar effortlessly. It happened so fast that Landon had no idea what happened for the first few moments. It was when he saw the Pidgey loop over towards a tree that he knew that he had been robbed; by the same Pidgey no less. Landon knew it was the same Pidgey as he saw its notable features: Now a normal Pidgey is colored Vanilla and brown on its feathers, and pink on its bird legs and feet matched with its pink beak. Black fuzz around its eye area and it held almost a cute but cold hawk like stare. This Pidgey had some features that stood out: The feathers on its scalp seemed to be a bit ruffled, poking up and out almost as if it were hair, and both of its wings seemed to have nicks in them; clip like features that made the wings look a bit different. Almost like it had gotten into a fight and was injured.

The Pidgey perched in a tree holding the candy bar in its mouth, only to support it with its wing for the remainder. Happy and triumphant, the Pidgey took a bite out of the chocolate chewing away with a big smile on its face. Landon was steaming, that was his last candy bar and he barely wanted to give up the other one to catch the bird. Now he’s had one taken and the other stolen right in front of him. There were only a few, but it was the last straw; Landon was going to get his candy back one way or another.

“Hey you! Yeah you, gimme back my chocolate! You already ate the other one, now don’t be a pig!”

The Pidgey doubled took his sight of Landon as he shook his fist up at it. It was confused. It had to have looked at him and the chocolate at least 5 times each until it finally realized why the human was so angry; opportunity. The Pidgey’s head hatched an idea that smelled of foul eggs and decided to put it into action just for kicks. Now knowing Landon was trying to get the treat back, it pointed to it with its wing as if it were saying “Oh you want this?” Landon angrily responded with a nod. The Pidgey then proceeded with phase two of his little plan: It licked the chocolate slowly with his tiny bird tongue. It was teasing him. Landon’s eyes widened in shock as he instantly caught on to the Pidgey’s little game and that absolutely fumed him.

Phase three: The Pidgey took another bite, but this time chewed it slowly, savoring the flavor in his mouth. Opening and closing, opening and closing slowly. Landon had enough.

“That does it!”

This thing was more irritating than Toru, and that’s saying something. Landon finally decided to take matters into his own hands, so he grabbed a hold and climbed the very tree the Pidgey sat in. Shimmying up the trunk with little effort, driven by his anger. Landon reached the top in a matter of moments, but not without the Pidgey’s watchful eye; his hawk like sights watch his entire ascent up the tree. Up close and personal , Landon had the little thief right where he wanted him. He was just in arms reach and he could easily snatch the candy bar back, but something wasn’t right: Why wasn’t it flying away? Something was definitely fishy. In fact, it should’ve instantly flew away when Landon thumped his body against the tree when he began his climb. This didn’t taste right, not at all.

“Alright you little thief, I’m gonna tell you how this is gonna work: First, I’m gonna take my chocolate back, and second, I’m gonna catch you! Now I insist you cooperate or things are gonna get very complicated between you and I, got it?”

Pidgey understood. It happily peeped at him as it held the chocolate in its wing. Even more suspicious, it was actually cooperating. Landon expected at least a peck in the face, if it was opposed to fly away. Landon thought it was way too easy, but what other choice did he have? He was in a tree with a bird passing him chocolate, so he shrugged off his suspicions and reached for it. Bad move. The Pidgey yanked the chocolate back, placed it down and finally clapped its tiny wings together creating a gigantic gust of wind that blew right in Landon’s face, almost all in an instant. It was so quick, Landon had no chance to brace himself at all and even if he did, the blustery wind was so powerful it literally pried his hands off of the tree trunk and blasted him all the way into the tree a few feet parallel to them. With a big scream and few twists and flips, Landon smacked face first into the thick plant life, upside down.

Landon peeled off of the tree slowly and painfully and fell to the floor completely stiff. His whole body ached and it was even painful to breathe. After a few moments to catch his breath and retrieve his pride, Landon got to his feet and dusted himself off. Still feeling the effects of the impact, he rubbed his face as it was bruised red. The Pidgey found this completely hilarious as it laughed on its bird bottom, taking another bite of the stolen chocolate. His fun was over, so now he felt it was time to bid the foolish human boy adieu. Placing the candy back in his mouth, it readied its wings and took off, flapping away from the tree and Landon as well. Landon was completely embarrassed and empty handed; no candy or Pidgey.

“Go on! Run away! That’s expected from a big fat chicken!”

The Pidgey froze. It slowly turned its head as a cord was struck. The word “chicken” seemed to have made it angry, really angry. Landon watched as it literally turned a one eighty in the air without any use or thought about flapping. It was almost scary, it was scary, and it was coming right for him! The Pidgey, still with chocolate in mouth, bolted at a blinding speed towards Landon going on the attack. Now we really know it’s angry as it almost completely took Landon’s head off. If he hadn’t have ducked, then it would’ve been a disaster! The Pidgey circled around as it was still going for yet another swoop at Landon. Things were getting hairy, and it was time to use is only lifeline.

“Hotspot! You’re up!”

Landon immediately un-pocketed his Charmander’s Pokeball and placed it inside his hand and over his thumb, flicking it into the air. He happened to have flicked the silver button which enlarged the ball while in mid-air. Landon caught the ball by snatching it out of the air and finally ended his theatric summoning, by winding back, taking a small leap forward and hurling the ball at the ground. The force of the ball hitting the ground instantly triggered the opening mechanism of the Pokeball, releasing the fire Pokemon in a brilliant flash of white light. The morph was complete as Charmander was out and ready for action giving out a big “Chaaaaaar!” The ball then somehow reversed its movement and returned to Landon’s grasp, a feature even he was perplexed about.

However Charmander had no idea what was going on, so he didn’t see the angry Pidgey that circled in the air. He looked around and didn’t even know where it was, which was bad. His dad always said that when Pokemon are summoned they always instinctively know what to do when called, this sadly wasn’t the case for little Hotspot. Landon watched as the Pidgey made its move, swooping violently at him for a second time. Landon needed Charmander and he needed him now.

“Spot, Pidgey!”

Charmander finally caught on. Spotting the danger that threatened its trainer immediately. Wings tucked, the Pidgey was practically in Landon’s face but Charmander had it covered. Without even thinking, Charmander gapped open its mouth to call for Landon but what came out was something hot; not to mention very useful. Woosh, went a fireball from Charmander’s mouth that flew like a bullet. It was close race, but in the end, Pidgey would be pummeled by the fiery attack just moments away from hitting Landon’s face. The flame hit hard as it knocked the chocolate out of its mouth, and burst seconds after. The Pidgey was sent flying into a tree trunk wing first, and inevitably was grounded. With a soft coo of pain it lied at the foot of the tree, shivering.

“Yes! Got it! Nice work Spot!”

Charmander had no intention of attacking the bird, but in the end it rubbed the back of its head taking the victory anyways. Landon had it incapacitated, so now began one of the crowning moments of his Pokemon Journey: Capturing his first Pokemon. He riddled with glee as he enlarged the same ball he intended on using before, and was ready to propel it forward. His hand was itching, he knew his time was near, he knew it was gonna be captured no matter what, but yet, why did it feel so wrong?

Landon took a good look at the grounded Pidgey. It was in no position to fight back at all, it was completely immobile as it shivered, squinting its eyes in what appeared to be great pain. Its whole wing and left side were scorched with second degree burns, the tips of his feathers had a hint of black. When it all came down to it, when Landon looked at the completely helpless Pidgey on the ground, he couldn’t do it.

Landon felt terrible as he turned his head to see the chocolate that was stolen from him. The Pidgey only wanted the chocolate in the first place. It meant him no harm at all. Sure it attacked him, but that was only because he was provoked, he was the one who lashed out first. His heart felt ill, just looking at the Pidgey made him feel instantly sad. Almost as if he wanted to cry. Charmander was confused however. Why was he just standing there? Why wasn’t he going to throw that ball thing at the bird he attacked? Charmander tugged on Landon’s pants leg, asking in his own animal language, but the only thing that Landon could muster up to say in the moment was:

“Not like this…”

Landon retrieved the chocolate that he tried so angrily to get back and took it to the only place that seemed right. Landon slowly walked over to the injured Pidgey and slowly placed the bar next to it, gently with no ill intent. The Pidgey slowly opened its eyes and looked towards the presence it felt kneeling over it. “Coo coo…?” It went weakly, still shivering in pain. Landon felt the tears in his eyes come stronger as it stared into its little innocent face. It was funny how an entire moment could change all on a whim. Aggression turned to pity and sadness.

“Here, I was gonna use it to try and catch you again anyways so… You can have it.”

The Pidgey was surprised that despite being down and out, the human boy hadn’t caught him already. It looked at him as well as the chocolate not knowing how to feel. It was mixed up, just like Landon himself. However it still was grateful that he gave him back the chocolate. Leaning over to try and take a bite, it reeled back still in pain. It couldn’t eat. Landon needed to get help, this was a serious situation and he was the cause of it.

“Time to return to your ball Spot.”

Landon pulled out Charmander’s respective Pokeball and called it back with its red beam. Front line business was to give this Pidgey medical aid and that was what he intended to do. Placing the empty Pokeball down, Landon checked his bag to see if he had anything that would ease the pain, even only temporarily. She rummaged through desperately trying to find at least something. But in the end it wouldn’t matter as the Pidgey spotted the Pokeball that Landon intended to capture it with. It all became clear what it needed to do when it heard Landon speak

“Don’t worry little guy, I’m gonna get you some help. It was my fault so it’s my job to fix it.”

That was enough for it. Its pain was crippling, but it slowly began to ease up and move its body around to face the Pokeball that sat next to it. With just the simple thrust of its neck, it pressed the button to the ball. The same red energy used to return Pokemon then surrounded the Pidgey, only to open the ball automatically and suck it inside completely. Before Landon could react, he saw the ball close with the Pidgey disappearing from his vision. Landon gasped out in shock as he couldn’t believe what he saw; the Pidgey willingly jumped into the ball. Not exactly the first catch he envisioned, but it was caught. No struggle, no shake, no movement from the ball at all. Just a small hiss as the heat was quickly released from the sealed ball, notifying that the selected creature had been captured. Landon couldn’t gather what had happened, but he had an injured Pokemon on his hands and he couldn’t just sit around. It was time to head back, back to the Pokemon Center.

-----------------------------

The Pokemon Center - A Pokemon hospital of sorts, taking in and caring for animals of all shapes and sizes. Using their advanced medical skills to do everything in their power to remedy what ails them. Landon just delivered his tiny bird friend to the nurse who ran the building, but no word on its condition yet. He sat in the lobby waiting and twiddling his fingers for any information at all, filled with guilt. It seemed so silly that he’d end up taking a Pokemon he barely knew to the Center instead of the Pokemon he already owned. He thought he’d have to take Hotspot there after a grueling battle, trying to catch a Pokemon, but in the end, he would’ve had to take the captured Pokemon there well. He was confused even more now than he was before, but a familiar face would show up to bare news for him.

“Landon Garrison?”

“Uh, yes?”

“Your Pidgey is doing fine, though its suffered pretty nasty burns on its left wing. Do you happen to own a Charmander?”

“Yes ma’am.”

“Well please be more careful next time. The damage was almost to the point of being severe. It’s a very lucky little bird.”

“… I didn’t mean it. Spot was just trying to protect me.”

“Don’t you worry, I’m sure it will still be in good spirits once it wakes up. We’ll be starting the procedure momentarily.”

That was the lovely Nurse Joy. Hair of pink, fashioned in hooped pigtails, and dressed in a skirted white nurse’s outfit. A young woman who ran the Pokemon center along side her rounded helpers called Chansey. An egg savvy Pokemon who specialized in healing others with its special skills. Pink and roundly shaped like the eggs they took care of. There were at least 4 of them running around in the lobby, holding containers, carting stretchers, being as helpful as they could possibly be in one sitting. There was a lot of work to be done and they were just the Pokemon to get it done and done right.

There was nothing left for him there. All there was now was to play the waiting game. Images of the injured Pidgey poked around in his mind over and over, scaring him inside. What if he hurt another Pokemon like he did that one. It was an inevitable fact since he had to battle his way to the top. All those Pokemon getting hurt in all the battles he’d fight in the future. He shivered as he saw injuries, burns, bruises, the works all across Pokemon in his head. Landon didn’t think he could go on. He had to get some air, so he quickly walked out the door with his hands in his pockets.

As he heard the sliding door close behind him, he walked down the road not feeling so great anymore about his journey; his future. Did Pokemon really have to get hurt in order for him to become the best in the world? This wasn’t a problem before. When he was in the middle of training, thinking of moments like this were the most exciting thing in the world for him. Now that he’s on his way, looking at the injured Pidgey just… broke him. Nothing was exciting anymore. It felt so wrong. His buzz was absolutely destroyed.

He saw the faces of trainers who held Pokeballs. Happy as could be, without a care in the world, with dreams of being written in the stars. Those dreams were now far from Landon’s reach and getting further by the second. He missed the old feeling, but after what he saw, things would never go back to the way things were.

“Hey Lanny!”

That voice; Landon would recognize that voice anywhere. That self righteous tone, that annoying way he said “Lanny”, one of the only people who even called him Lanny. Landon turned to his right knowing he would see something that would give him a bad taste in his mouth.

“…Toru.”

“It’s about time you got here. Late, late, late again it would appear. What did you hitch a ride on a Weedle of something? I’ve been here for almost five hours and I’ve only seen you just get here in the last two.”

“What do you want?”

“Landon, is that anyway to treat a childhood buddy? And after all those strings I pulled for you in school, it’s such a shame how badly you treat me.”

“Take a look in the mirror lately?”

“Yes, three times today already. Anyways, I just saw you over here moping around, and I decide: Hey, why not give my old buddy Landon a quick visit to see how he’s doing?”

“I’m fine, now if you don’t mind I need to clear my head… away from you.”

“Oh I see, you’re hurt that you beat that Pidgey in a battle.”

“You-?!”

“I came in right about the moment the little birdie blew your mind. Look Landon, if you’re gonna act like this whenever you defeat a Pokemon then I see no point in you continuing any further.”

“Don’t you lecture me! I… just wasn’t ready yet. I thought I was, but… it’s different.”

“It’s a dog eat dog world; such as the land where Pokemon live, flourish and battle. Now I’m gonna say this once and once only: Quit your crying and get with the program. Man up!”

“I don’t have to listen to this, outta my way…”

Landon heard enough from the one person he wished he wouldn’t see again so soon. Placing his hands back in his pocket Landon tried to roughly shove past the highbrow rich kid, but unfortunately ended up on the receiving end of his fist. He slugged him. Landon tipped and teetered over as the bruise on his face and the force of Toru’s blow forced him to meet the ground. Dirt flew up as he slid on his side, stunned momentarily. Rubbing his face, Landon was completely filled with rage. He hit him? Landon fumed and saw only red as he glared a gigantic hole through the face of Toru. Landon’s current agenda had changed: Slug Toru right back in his little rich boy face. However Toru’s agenda would soon clash with his as physical violence between two people would only lead into disaster.

“Battle me…”

But a Pokemon battle; this was an opportunity to learn. Landon wanted to punch him in the face so badly, but in the end, he would get his anger under control and would do the one thing that could make up for Toru’s cheap shot: Mop the floor with him in a one on one Pokemon battle.

“I accept.”

The stage was set, the chips were down, and the event was beginning. Landon was about to have his first Pokemon battle. Quickly going into a quick-drawing stance, Landon positioned himself with his right hand in his pocket and his left foot forwards. Toru had a different approach. Both legs together, right arm behind his back, and left hand out and presented. Both trainers had very different stances, which no doubt meant that they’re tactics would be different as well. The wind blew to set the mood, it was silent, nobody was around. It was just boy against boy, mono e mono. Both of them not blinking, complete focus, complete concentration, until:

The scampering of a Rattata was the flag; game on. Toru began: With the flick of his wrist and a change of his stance, Toru readied with the speed of a tiger. His Pokeball appearing in his hand like magic, both risen up, Toru positioned himself in a fighting stance. Wasting no time, he immediately crossed arms, winded back and hurled the Pokeball with great speed giving out a battle cry: “Aaah-cho!!”
“Shui! Guard up!”

Squirtle blasted forth from its ball, withdrawn inside its shell. Once it touched down, it finally emerged crying out with just as much intensity in its voice as Toru: “Squirt!” It was Landon’s turn: Coin flipping the ball, he swiped it from the air, winded back and hurled his with just as much, possibly even more, intensity as Toru.

“Hotspot! Burn!”

Charmander’s entrance was just as intense as Squirtle’s as it flipped in the air, with its tail flame spreading tiny cinders around and finally landing. “Char-mander!” it went as it glared at Toru’s Squirtle, almost as if he were just as angry at him, like Landon was at Toru. Both balls returned to their respective owners and the battle was underway. Both Pokemon were out and ready, the only thing left was for one of them to make a move.

“Spot: Scratch Attack!

“Shui: Tackle!”

Landon made the first move. Charmander leapt at the blue turtle, roaring loudly and claws up high. Its nails glinted in the sunlight as it dove through the air, heading right for its target. However Squirtle was next to move, which meant it had little time to react, but a second to think about its move. Meaning the tackle that Toru commanded would connect on target. Dashing with its entire body, Squirtle lunged and nailed Charmander in the stomach and chest, halting its Scratch Attack in its tracks. The repelling forces caused Charmander’s blow to be two times more severe, propelling him in the opposite direction.

“Chaaaar!” it cried as it sailed in the air at a blinding speed, straight for Landon! Not wanting to get hit, or worse burned by its tail, Landon ducked and covered barely missing a collision with his fiery partner. Charmander landed on the ground with an incredible thump, sliding quite a distance before stopping. It was down, but it wasn’t out. This was only the beginning as Charmander leapt to its feet and snapped its jaw in anger. Despite how devastating the blow looked, Spot was up and ready for round 2.

“You okay Spot?”

“Come on, what was that? Your Charmander left himself completely open! Your lucky that he’s a tough little guy or Shui would’ve seriously injured it right off the bat! Like you Pidgey…”

“Say what?!”

Landon didn’t want Toru get the advantage him, not this time. This was the day Landon would be victorious. All Charmander needed was a little pep talk and better direction.

“Don’t take that from him Spot. Get back in there!”

Charmander clanked its nails together with tiny “chnks” and dashed off for another go with its Scratch Attack. Squirtle had more distance, it was much more prepared this time as he watched Landon’s Charmander get closer and closer by the second. Toru was not impressed.

“Shut it down with: Bubble.”

Squirtle happily followed by sucking in some air and blowing out with a bit of force. And in that force flew a small cluster of bubbles that floated elegantly but vigorously through the air, straight for the charging Spot. It was going too fast, even if Landon called the attack off, its momentum would still send it sliding into the attack, there was nothing he could do, but watch as the Bubble attack hit its mark, leaving Charmander right on its chin. Another failed attempt.

“Boy you’re sloppy. All that training with your dad and this is the end result. Boy, that must’ve been some lame training then cause you’re making the simplest mistakes on your first battle. I was expecting more from you.”

“Lay off Tofu!”

“Think, dweeb. Pokemon battles aren’t all about charging and attacking, they’re calculative procedures that also take timing and precision. Sure you can go in swinging like a barbarian, but don’t expect your Pokemon to come out squeaky clean, that’s for sure. If that’s how you’re gonna fight, then I might have to start calling you Lanny the Barbarian then, huh?”

“Shut-up!”

Landon didn’t want to believe it, he didn’t want to hear it, but all what Toru was saying was fact. He was completely right. What was he doing? All that training with his father and this is what he’s doing on his first battle? He needed to think, he needed to direct and he needed to be precise. Landon had to calm down as his anger was clouding his judgment. Toru was getting to him and that was what was crippling him. It was time to shape up.

“Spot, can you still go?”

Charmander pushed its entire body off the ground and stood to its feet. A little wobbly, but it still was able enough to keep battling, however he did take some nasty hits. More of those could spell trouble and cost him the match. Charmander remained strong as it puffed its chest out trying to look tough in front of Squirtle. Squirtle was amused, but not intimidated as he gave a wily grin.

“Alright Spot give it a: Growl”

If Squirtle wasn’t intimidated, now would be the perfect time. Swinging its head back, Charmander huffed in a large amount of air, only to let it escape in one giant blast. It may have been a Growl Attack, but it sounded like a roar. The air around its big cry distorted and moved almost as if it were tangible, knocking both Toru and Squirtle for a loop. Toru covered his face with his forearm, while Squirtle reeled back with its eyes opened wide. Intimidation set in as it was not what both of them had expected from a barely used Pokemon. “Squiiiiir-tllllle.” It shivered after the attack had ended. Toru tried not to look surprised, but it was thinly vailed by the grit of his teeth. Things were getting interesting.

“Jackpot.”

Landon found his footing. He needed to follow up and follow up quick, so he commanded Charmander to do what he wanted it to do in the beginning:

“Scratch it!”

Charmander had an opening, and it took it. Rushing with its tiny legs and claws up, Charmander fired away with blow after blow, swipe after swipe in Squirtles face. With one final strike, Squirtle was set sliding backwards from the sheer force of the attack. The amusement was over, now it was angry.

“Welcome to the party Landon. But I’m afraid Shui and I are gonna have to show you the door: Bubble!”

The bubbles flew yet again as they sailed in clumps and bunches. Charmander was ready this time. Landon was ready, and what he had in mind would be bold, but effective.

“Target practice. Alright Spot, blow um all away with: Ember!”

Target practice indeed; Charmander gather air again, but this time unleashed a flurry of flames from its tiny toothed mouth. The little flames shot at a faster speed than the floating bubbles making them easy to hit. One by one, the clumps popped, the chunks burst and the bunches fell to the flames as each of the smoldering shots exploded the water attack prematurely. No bubbles were left, the deflection was a success as the battlefield was covered in steam. It was not Toru’s turn to act fast, but the steam caught him off guard. After a moment to calculate the situation, it was time to attack, but it was too late. Out flew a singular flame that ripped through the steam and smacked right into Squirtle’s little turtle eyes: “Squuiirt!”

“Bulls eye!”

“Shake it off Shui: Tackle now!”

The clouded battlefield began to clear, revealing Squirtle’s target once again. Locked on like a seeking missile, Squirtle zoomed from its spot head on as Charmander was in the stage of gathering itself after an attack; the perfect opportunity to strike. But Landon was one step ahead of Toru this time.

“Jump Spot!”

Following Landon’s order at the right moment, Charmander leaped into the air making Squirtle completely miss its Tackle Attack. “Squirt?” It said as it watched Charmander from behind. Following up from its pinpointed leap, Charmander landed on the shell of its opponent and leaped off of that to gain some distance between them. Landon was excited. He was finally tasting the sweet nectar of victory. Toru was the one on the losing end now as Spot was looking great out there. Landon was on top of the mountain, he wanted that feeling to never end.

“Water Gun.”

Water Gun? Water Gun? Wasn’t that move a bit advanced this early in for Squirtle? Landon would soon know, it wasn’t. Landon watched as Toru’s Squirtle expand around its belly. Almost as it were gathering even more air than before, but that wasn’t air. Squirtle’s charge was complete and it was ready to let her rip, blasting a stream of cold rushing water at Charmander. Charmander was caught completely off guard and was jolted back into a large rock by the attack. It was literally being drenched as Shui sprayed and sprayed its attack, non stop. It may seem like harmless water to plain old humans, but not to Fire Pokemon. To them, it was poison; burning and searing like intense fire. By the way Spot was yelping, Landon could tell it was in a lot of pain, and it wouldn’t last very long if this kept up.

“It seems we have your Charmander pinned. It’ll only be a matter of time before it’s down and out. It’s up to you Lanny. All you have to do is call off the match.”

Landon couldn’t do that. He was so close, but from the looks of things, he didn’t have a choice. He had to call it quits. Landon lowered his head in defeat as he slowly raised his hand to concede the match. “Chaaaar!” Charmander cried out as it didn’t agree. It was pinned badly to the rock by the streaming water gun, but it somehow found the strength and endurance to slowly but surely slip its way out of the attack. It was completely wet and exhausted as it lied on the ground, trying to catch its breath. Squirtle wasn’t gonna give it the chance to get back up, so it sucked in, preparing to fire another Water Gun to finish it off.

“Hold your fire. Let it get up.”

He stopped it. How very odd. Chamander was down, but still willing to battle, the only logical thing to do would’ve been to shoot it again to finish it off. But Toru halted its attack to let it stand. Landon needed an explanation.

“Hey, why didn’t you let it attack? You could’ve won.”

“Landon, you of all people should know the code of the Jun-Rei Family: Never attack a grounded enemy. You’re lucky I have to follow it.”

Landon recalled Toru speaking of his family code: a list of rules and regulations that his entire finally dynasty had to follow for generations. He even recalled the consequences if even one rule was broken: Dishonor towards the family, and exile. Extreme? It was, but it wasn’t Landon’s family, so he wouldn’t understand. Landon acknowledged Toru’s family code with a nod and watched as his Charmander began to rise on its feet. Slowly and ridden with pain, it stood up high, ready for more punishment. Now that it was up, nothing was stopping Toru from attacking. The time had come, this was the deciding factor in the battle.

“End it: Tackle!”

“Squirtle!” Off it went again in a mad dash to strike the barely stand Charmander. It flew full of pep and energy, while Charmander teetered and its knees buckled. If Landon was to have a chance, he need to make a move right then and there. And that’s when he struck:

“Spot: Stand you ground and stop it!””

Charmander knew it had to shape up and tough it out. So with the stomp of its foot, and the flick of its tail, Charmander turned to the tackling Squirtle and flung it’s arms out. Remarkably, Charmander stood its ground and caught Squirtle; arms pushed against its shoulders, Squirtle was stopped with only a hint of a struggle. Squirtle didn’t stop. It pushed with all of its strength, sliding Charmander back without any effort. Charmander was too weak. It may have had the strength to stop the Tackle, but how long could it hold its grip.

“Enough games! Shui, plow through it!”

Squirtle turned up the heat as it began to break Charmander’s footing. It was time to improvise. If Charmander couldn’t power his way through Squirtle, it was time to outsmart it. Landon had just the plan:

“Quick Spot: Meet your tail with his!”

Charmander didn’t get what he meant at first, which isn’t a surprise, but after glancing down at Squirtle pedaling feet, he instantly knew. Acting fast, it tucked its flaming tail between its legs, maneuvering it towards Squirtle’s tail and lower shell. The heat from its tail flickered from the movement spreading the flames around. It may not have noticed at first, but after something began burning, that’s when it knew.

“Squiiiiiiirt!” It yelped as it finally realized that its tail was red hot. Breaking its Tackle completely and leaping into the air fanning the extreme burning on its backside extension; an opening! Charmander knew it had the upper hand, so as soon as Squirtle descended from its pain driven leap, it took a big swing to its head, nailing it onto its back. Squirtle is the turtle Pokemon, and when a turtle is knock on its back, it certainly stuck that way.

“No!”

Toru was in trouble, Squirtle was completely immobile now. It rocked to the front and back, it rocked from side to side, but it was not going anywhere at all. Victory was in Landon’s grasp as he saw the little turtle struggling to turn over. Charmander was able to take a breather as well, but it couldn’t just sit there forever to get its strength back up. It had to strike and strike now, but it was down. Landon may not have been apart of the Jun-Rei Family, but he still believed in fair fighting.

“Attack!”

“What-?”

“What are you waiting for you idiot? Attack now!”

“But it’s down! I can’t.”

“Don’t worry, Shui can handle itself. Now strike before I hose down your Charmander again!”

Toru forced Landon’s hand. Now he had no choice but to strike the helpless Squirtle. Landon knew full well that Toru was just putting up a front; there was no way his Squirtle could get up. Unless he taught it to before hand. Landon wasn’t gonna take that chance, so he decide to attack.

“End it Spot: Send it spinning with your tall!”

With the last of its strength, in one final dash, Charmander attacked, whipping its flaming tail into the upturned Squirtle. It twirled and twirled, around and around till it was forced to stop, smack dab into a rock, cracking it. Revenge for the Water Gun Maybe? Overall, Squirtle’s eyes were in a daze, its body slumped down; it was over. Squirtle had no more in the tank. Toru’s only option was to call back his Pokemon and accept defeat.

“Looks like you win.”

“I won? I won! Yeah! You did it Spot!”

Charmander waved its arms in happiness as it realized that it was victorious. This called for a celebration as both partner and Pokemon embrace, spinning and cheering over their win.

“Looks like I got the best of you Tofu. Got anything smart to say now?”

“You idiot…”

“What?”

“You don’t realize that I helped you the entire time in that match. If it weren’t for that, I would’ve mopped the floor with you.”

“…”

“Don’t expect special treatments next time. This was just an exhibition, next time, I’ll destroy you… That is, unless you clean up that crybaby act of yours, loser.”

Toru left Landon with a tap to the forehead and a flick of his cow-tail, walking away from his childhood acquaintance: His rival. That down talk should have steamed Landon, but it didn’t. Landon was perfectly fine with it as he held Charmander in his arms. He watched as Toru slowly walked away leaving his mark on the battlefield as well as in Landon’s mind. Landon didn’t want to admit it, but he learned something from that battle: Pokemon are used to battle, but they share the same feelings you do when you command them. Your personality is channeled through to them, which could either be helpful, or disastrous. It was time Landon checked on his little Pidgey friend. In his head, he knew that it wasn’t his fault that he hurt the little mischievous Pidgey, it was the heat of the moment and Spot was only trying to protect him.

Landon needed to learn not to let his anger control him. If he didn’t get angry at the Pidgey in the first place, it probably would’ve just flown away with the chocolate it wanted in the first place. But in the end, he would’ve had to injure another in order to catch it. It’s a painful world, but he had to get past those thoughts of feeling sorry for himself. It was good for him to feel bad for hurting other Pokemon, but it would be more efficient for him to show concern and not guilt. Try and help the other Pokemon and its Trainer, show that side of his personality to notify that he was a good person and cared about the creatures they used to battle.

Suddenly, Landon felt a tug on the back of his shirt. “Char?” Charmander noticed just like its owner as he turned around to see who was touching him. “Chansey.” Chansey? It was one of the helpers from the Pokemon Center. Apparently it was calling him back inside; he knew by the fact that it was gesturing for him to follow it. Landon knew he was going back to see the Pidgey and he was prepared to what lied ahead. Was the Pidgey gonna hate him, or was he gonna be okay with what he did? He did willingly hop inside Landon’s Pokemon, so he had high hopes on the situation.

“Landon?”

“Yes?”

“Great news. We ran a few tests and bandaged up your Pidgey and its going to be just fine. After a few more doses for its burns it should be out by tomorrow. Would you like to see it?”

Great news from the beautiful Nurse Joy! Landon was excited and couldn’t wait to see his Pidgey. Nurse
Joy led him into the room they were resting Pidgey in and what would be the first thing he saw of it? It still eating the big bar of chocolate it had from before. This made Landon both smile and laugh as he saw it snacking on the bar. Pidgey finally noticed his new owner and watched as he slowly sat down next to it as it sat up in its little bed. “Char char char” Spot went, most likely asking how it was feeling. “Coo coo coo.” Pidgey replied happily as it was still in good spirits. As he looked at its little bird face, at first glance he thought he wouldn’t know what to say, but he knew.

“Hey there little guy, how are you feeling? Sorry about our little confrontation, I guess I overreacted when I should’ve just let you have the chocolate. “

Pidgey thought to itself and sort of stared off into space. It remembered how it teased him for stealing his chocolate and even how it attacked him. Forgive and forget; that’s what it believed was the right thing to do as Landon helped it out when it was about to peck his eyes out. And what better way to show a sign of a truce, but to offer what it stole and was given in the first place. “Coo?” Pidgey went as it extended its wing, holding the chocolate out for Landon to have. Was Landon suspicious again? No. This actually made Landon smile, sealing the truce as he grabbed the chocolate bar. “Coo coo!” And it was that easy. Once again, it’s funny how a simple moment can change everything in an instant. From strangers to foes, from foes to friends, Landon now had his very first caught Pokemon.

---------------------------

“Why yes, I believe a young man named Landon Garrison came in. You just missed him, he said he was headed to Viridian Forest.”

Once again, the mysterious Trainer who had their sights on Landon was still on his tail. After a verbal exchange as well as collection of the Pokeball marked with the leaf, this John Doe was ready to continue their pursuit. Or possibly, a Jane Doe, as the hand that received the Pokeball was feminine and slender. The sliding doors opened and the hunt was back on; with Landon still dead in their sights, they smiled and knew that this was going to be a wild ride.

“Ready or not… Lanny…”

[Act]

The blustery winds whipped and blew in the morning sky. The sun was just rising and shined with a gigantic hint of orange, slowly rising over the horizon and mountains.

This is kind of almost... gibberish. “The blustery winds whipped and blew?” “...shined with a gigantic hint of orange...?” (That second one in particular makes pretty much no sense, especially when you look at it from a syntactical POV.)

I'm not going to even really bother checking the word usage ('blustery' sends off some bells in my head, for example), because just because you *can* use words doesn't mean you should. Throwing as many adjectives, adverbs, and modifiers as you can into a sentence doesn't make you a better writer, it makes the things you're saying sound ridiculous, and usually things start to be described that aren't even really possible (you can't really 'shine with' something, especially not something 'gigantic'). It sounds silly, and very quickly starts to become a parody of itself... this actually sound like a line straight out of a parody a friend of mine and I wrote a while ago:

“The paddock’s verdant foliage wafted in the subsidizing airstream. Leisurely yet indisputably, each blade blustered to and fro transverse the topography. The infinitesimal vegetation was ignorant of what was about to transpire in their midst. As such, it unrelentingly wavered, ever so slightly, back and forth.”

While all of that is technically correct, it sounds ridiculous, which is why I'm kind of ranting on and on about this... something such as, “The sun rose and the day was beautiful,” isn't quite so full of pretty words, but it gets the same point across while continuing the progression of the story... and most importantly, it doesn't sound like you've just discovered the thesaurus and are out to use it as much as ridiculously possible.

So, for the tl;dr: Purple prose is bad. That sounds absolutely ridiculous.

A perfect beginning for a day of flying, but one group decided to take the call early.

I'm not sure what you're trying to say here. I mean, first, “A perfect beginning for day of flying,” doesn't really mean anything (I'm assuming you meant 'the day,' but I'm also kind of wondering what was beginning, who was flying, and why it was such a great beginning for flying). Then you follow it with 'but one group decided to take the call early,” which in my mind translates to, “It was a perfect day to fly, but they were going to do it anyway,” which doesn't make sense. And on top of that, one group of what? There were no mention of 'groups.' 'The call?' The call to fly? The call to... go shopping? Who was making the call?

I'm being so nitpicky because when you tend toward purple prose, this is something that happens as a byproduct: you become so concerned with everything sounding nice and being novel that you forget the things you say still have to make sense, and conform to the rules of the English language. This sentence strikes me as a quintessential “I have to make my writing sound Mature, so I'm going to screw with syntax and use words incorrectly,” kind of thing.

Flap, flap, flap went the enormous wings of an on coming bird Pokemon, carrying a small passenger on its back.

Same thing here. The syntax is all wrong, and you even manage to change tenses, and it just sounds very awkward. Saying, “The bird pokemon flapped its wings, straining under the weight of its passenger,” or something is so much more straightforward, grammatically correct, and conveys the exact same thing without this weird passive voice you have going on.

Furthermore, oncoming is one word.

It cawed out, voice echoing through the air and plain waking young and old creatures alike.

I am going to quote every single sentence that is a mess until you stop. This one kind of falls under the 'unnecessary details,' category. Unless it matters in some way that the bird cawed loudly and woke people up, which I doubt.

From tree dwelling Pidgey and Caterpie, to grass trekking Rattata and Sandshrew

This is not a complete sentence, it's two prepositional phrases.

A Fearow was the majestic beast who flew high in the sky, carrying a young man for what seemed to be hours.

I'm not really sure why you're doing this, TBH. What are you trying to accomplish by saying. “A fearow was the bird,” (wrongwrongwrongwrong) instead of, “The bird was a fearow?” The former just sounds insane.

The second half just... doesn't make sense. It just can't be part of that sentence; the two clauses aren't related in any way. “The bird was a fearow, and it had been carrying the young man for hours.” Why not? Why do you hate syntax so much?

The boy appeared to be asleep as he was spread across the gigantic back and wingspan of his transport, apparently not being phased by its super sonic call.

This is, more or less, incorrect usage of the word 'as.' Instead of 'as,' a colon or semicolon (or, ya know, new sentence) would be correct.

And again, 'supersonic' is one word. I also kind of question that word choice, because it makes it seem like the fearow was literally using the attack supersonic, which I don't think is what you intended.

And how could the call wake up everyone in a nearby town, but not the kid who was right there? Did it just go straight to deafening him like it probably should have?

Snoring away peacefully and possibly dreaming; dreaming of his future.

Again, not a complete sentence. Furthermore, semicolon misuse. A semicolon needs to connect two complete sentences that each have their own subject and predicate.

----

Alright, I'm going to stop here because a) it took you a paragraph to say, “A bird flew through the sky carrying a sleeping boy,” and b) I can't imagine my saying the same things over and over for another 2,435,354 pages would help you any, and I also can't imagine the writing style suddenly changes.

I never really understand purple prose... I don't like it, I had a hard time even forcing myself to write it, and I feel like anyone who is a native English speaker should see how ridiculous it is. I can't really imagine what you were trying to accomplish, but my guess is that you were going for, again, a kind of mature sound. But... well, don't, I guess. Go for /your/ sound. I would bet a lot that if you just got back to the basics and just wrote, you'd be pretty good.

Also, I'd really recommend you look around Google or something for information about the passive and active voice. I'm sure there are people who can explain a lot better than I can the difference between them, when each one is appropriate, and why. Just fixing that alone would have made this 1000x more readable.

Good luck, really. Maybe you have an awesome story in there... if you do, just tell it. Don't bog it down.

[LinkG07]

Wow o.o, so many mistakes in one paragraph. I completely understand and I thank you for the detailed critisism. It appears that my way of writing is a bit faulty, or just this one moment. I'll have to work on that. A lot. Now I can't say that I can change over night, but I can say that when I type, I sort of try to (as you said) sound poetic/smart. Its become mostly a habit since I write it down and sort of just expand on it.

I'm pretty sure that You would be going on for days with spelling errors and grammar misuse, and that's perfectly fine. I'm not the greatest write rin the world, however I do have a passion for it when I get my fingers moving. I'll just keep trying and hope that I can get better and not have as much mistakes as you pointed out. In my eyes before, it seemed fine; which is kind of foolish. And as I said before I wanted to get it out into the world earlier, I sort of got impatient. Now that I look back on it, I have to say you have major points that make me cringe at my own work.

I will take your advice on the passive and active voice which I've been trying to work on for ages. Thanks for the feedback again and I hope I can please a reader of your high caliber soon. For now, I'll just take your advice and hope for the best.

[Aura Master]

Reviewing a small tab-bit.

“End it Spot: Send it spinning with your tall!”

things like this... the
":" is annyoing so do this instead

End it Spot[!,]send it spinning with your tail!"

NOTE: The "[!,]" in the sentence means you can use a exclamation mark OR a comma there.
just felt like pointing that out

[LinkG07]

Pokemon: New Future
Adven. 1 – Kanto

Chapter 3: Bug Ninja! Wild Scyther Appears!

Day 2 – After a good night’s rest and retrieving his new acquired Pidgey, Landon was ankle deep inside a realm of green. Trees everywhere, grass as far as the eye could see, light peaking through the leaves and the random various sounds of Pokemon. Landon listened in on the orchestra of Pokemon cries and soaked in the feeling of being so far away from home and on his own. He was actually in Viridian Forest, Viridian’s jungle which was famous for its widely colorful residence. It’s one of the only placing a Trainer can catch Bug Pokemon. Landon decided that this would be a good time to gather Pokemon data, so out came his handy and trusty Pokedex.

“Alright then, let’s see what this baby can do.”

Landon proceeded to flip open the device to see its inside mechanisms. In it, was a small screen, most likely used to view the Pokemon that is desired. Three buttons and a directional pad, used to move through the lists of Pokemon and features as well as to check their weight and height on the opposite end. As Landon worked his way through the rest the buttons, he finally noticed the speaker that was below the screen. Maybe it made sounds. Landon had only seen Pokedex’s when they were closed, he’s never opened one so he didn’t really know what to expect from it. As he slowly eased his finger towards one of the buttons, it beeped automatically, which scared Landon half to death. What caused it to activate, he didn’t press anything. That’s when he looked up; it was a Caterpie, slinking its way up a tree. Did the Pokedex scan the Caterpie?

“Caterpie: The Worm Pokemon – Its short feet are tipped with suction pads that enable it to tirelessly climb slopes and walls. If you touch the feeler on the top of its head, it will release a horrible stink to protect itself.”

It talked! The little device talked and it told him information of the Pokemon that was before him. Landon only read what the device could do in books, but seeing it in action blew his mind. He had to do it again. He needed to find another Pokemon he could scan. Walking only a few feet forward, Landon spotted a Pidgey. Great, he didn’t get info on the one he caught so this would make up for it. Come to think of it, he missed another Pokemon that he could have gathered data on: Toru’s Squirtle. Landon slapped his forehead feeling kind of stupid for missing an opportunity like that, but it was Toru, he knew he’d see him sooner than later.

Landon extended his arm up and out, pointing the Pokedex at the bird that sat in its nest. With the “ping” of the Pokedex sounding off, it spoke once again:

“Pidgey: The Tiny Bird Pokemon – A common sight in forests and woods. Very docile. If attacked, it will often kick up sand to protect itself rather than fight back.

Very docile, eh? Well then it seemed like Landon got the oddball of the bunch since the Pidgey he caught certainly wasn’t afraid to get its wings dirty. This was fun, gathering data with the Pokedex. It was his original intention when he spoke with Professor Oak if he remembered correctly. He even said he’d find strange and unusual things in the Pokemon world. Well if he was going to keep his promise to the Professor then he had to get cracking. He was already off at a bad start. He should’ve been scanning Pokemon the second he walked out of his lab. Landon placed his back up against a tree to think for a bit however, he wouldn’t be doing much thinking as he would accidently lean up against a Weedle.

Feeling a sharp object poke him in the back, Landon screamed out in pain and surprise, leaping from his place against the tree. Landon quickly turned to see what the source of his major discomfort was and found the small yellow worm. Slowly crawling its way down the tree, minding its own business, almost as if it didn’t even notice Landon was there. Another Pokemon, which meant another opportunity to gather data! Pointing the Pokedex once again, Landon quickly scanned the Weedle without hesitation.

Weedle: The Hairy Bug Pokemon – This Pokemon is often found in forests eating leaves. It fends off its enemies using the venomous stinger on the top of its head.

“Venomous stinger, eh? Wait… venomous?!”

Landon began to feel ill as he realized what the object that poked him in the back was. If he was stabbed in the back by the Weedle’s stinger, then there was a good chance that he could be poisoned! Landon proceeded to scream his brains out in a complete panic. His cry of despair scared away the Pidgey in the trees around him, and even happened to have caught the attention of the Weedle who truly didn’t notice him.

“I’m poisoned! I need to get to a doctor! What am I gonna do?? I’m gonna die and my journey barely even started yet. Oh why cruel fate, why have you hurt me so?!”

“Weedle…”

Landon stopped his screams to the sky as he heard the Weedle cry out to him. He looked straight ahead, only to see the worm staring him dead in the face. Maybe that’s what Landon needed, a slap back into reality. Landon calmed down and tried his best to brush his hand across the spot he got poked in. Feeling around, he felt no puncture or penetration point. His shirt was intact, thus meaning he wasn’t truly poisoned. Relief! Landon gave a giant exhale now knowing he was going to live to see another day. In all honestly, he truly felt he was gonna die. During his moment of relief, surprise would come when he felt something crawling on his leg.

“What the-?”

Landon extended his leg to see what the foreign object that was touching him was and found out it was the Weedle. How did it get from the tree to his leg so fast? Landon was perplexed at how fast it had moved, but he was more surprised by the fact that it was crawling up his leg. What was its purpose?

“Whoa, you’re a fast little guy aren’t ya’? How’d you get there?”

“Weedle.” It said as it slowly crawled from Landon’s waist to his back. It seemed to stop there as well, almost as if it were checking for a wound for him. Was it reassuring that it didn’t poison him? Landon didn’t know what to think as he felt it still crawling around his body, working its way up to his neck and sort of wrapped its body around it. “Weee,” it said as it flicked its tail end around and knocked its head against his. Was it showing affection, or was it apologizing? Well the latter would be more logical as it began to climb back down. The opposite end no doubt, through his left side as opposed to his right when it started. Slowly slinking its body away it began to travel through the grass, going off on its daily business.

Landon was at a loss. That was the third occasion a Pokemon showed him affection when he either barely knew it or didn’t even own it. This time a bug crawled its way up and down his body. As weird as it may be, this may also be an opportunity. If that Pokemon was sorry for hurting him, then it would be an ideal Pokemon to catch! He had to get its attention again.

“Hey! Uh, Weedle!”

“Wee-?”

“Umm, thanks for checking if I was okay. Say, how would you like to come with me? You know, be one of my Pokemon?”

Landon unpocketed another empty ball as he had intentions on catching the yellow bug. However, the answer Landon got from it was not one he expected. Weedle stood all the way up on its tiny back legs, moving its others around. It then proceeded to lower its head and thrust it forward, giving an angry expression. This scared Landon slightly as it was so out of nowhere after it showed concern for his wellbeing. As Landon took a closer look, he soon would realize that it wasn’t a face of anger it was giving, but a face of determination, preparation.

“You wanna battle?”

Weedle nodded its head as it presented the poisonous stinger on its head. Landon had a feeling that he would have to battle it, although he did wonder if it would simply come with him, without a fight like his Pidgey. Now was time for the real test: Can Landon capture a Pokemon through battling it into submission? He was about to find out as he put away his empty ball temporarily, only to replace with an occupied one. It didn’t bear the symbol of flame, so it would mean that it was the ball that contained his Pidgey. Rotating it in his hand, Landon readied himself for the battle with the intimidating bug. He would be fine as long as he remembered to take care of it after injuring it. After a silent stand off for about a minute, it was time.

Landon coin flipped the ball into the air, snatched it in its descent, winded back, leapt forward and hurled the Pokeball with class. The ball flew over the Weedle’s head which somewhat confused it as it watched the metal sphere hit the ground behind it. Out came Landon’s Pidgey as it, exploded skyward in its brilliant white light. The light dissipated instantly and the bird was free to glide on the wind. “Coo coo!” The battle had begun. Wasting no time, Landon called out for the first attack.

“Alright Pidgey, lets start things off with a Gust Attack!”

Pidgey’s keen bird eyes instantly spotted the yellow insect on the ground and immediately followed its orders. Spreading its wings high and wide, it began to flap faster and faster and faster until it finally built up enough momentum to clap its wings together for a major burst of wind. The wind swirled in a line heading straight for the Weedle, but it stood its ground, trying to take the attack head on. Unfortunately, not even its sticky legs could hold it onto the grassy green, as the wind was too much. Weedle was flung into the air, and on a collision course with a tree. A hit like that would be a nice advantage for catching it sooner. Landon was hopeful and decided to take out the ball now, but soon he would find out it was too early to think about catching it now. Incredibly, the Weedle turned its body so that its underside would be facing the tree, making it land safely on its tiny feet. From then on out, the winds had no effect.

“Pidgey, change of plans! Go in for a Tackle!”

Pidgey saw that its whirling gust wasn’t working anymore, so it quickly went into a dive bomb straight for the Weedle. But Weedle was ready, it almost knew that diving in would be its next move, so ducking its head it proceeded to meet their Tackle with its Poison Sting. Landon saw that it was going to counter, with something more dangerous no less, so he had to call Pidgey off before it was too late.

“Pidgey watch out for its stinger! Pull up, pull up!”

At that speed, pulling up would be almost impossible, but if he didn’t it would risk getting a healthy injection of poison. Pidgey shifted its wings up and spread them as far out as it could, trying to slow down. Then it began to flap, flap if its life depended on it to pull out of its dive. As both Pokemon finally met in the air, Weedle’s lunge would just barely miss its mark as Pidgey’s stomach grazed the back of Weedle, its dodge was successful. Now Pidgey needed to get control over itself as it dashed upward and over the trees. Extended its left wing downward, it was able to turn and gain control over its momentum once again.

“Nice job! Now be careful, its stinger is poisonous! Try to fight from a distance with another Gust!”

Pidgey was relieved that it didn’t get punctured by the Weedle’s stinger, but there was a bit of bad news. Weedle had disappeared from its vision. Pidgey looked left, Pidgey looked right but there was no Weedle to be found. It was like it vanished into thin air, or maybe it was in one of the trees. Both Landon and Pidgey spotted the evasive bug when it popped its pointed head from the top of a tree. “Weedle.” It said as it looked at Pidgey hovering over its head.

“There! Gust, go!”

Pidgey clapped its wings together once again to create the rushing twister that was Gust and fired it towards the yellow bug. However, the Weedle would prove to be more evasive than they would imagine as it quickly darted its head below the leaves, completely getting out of the attacks way. Landon knew that if Weedle was going to play this game, then Gusts would not work at all. He had to get in close and attack it, but Landon couldn’t risk that or he would possibly have a poisoned Pokemon on his hands. Landon was scared, so his decision was to keep the Gusts coming.

“Keep using Gust Pidgey! When you see it come out of the tree, fire away!”

Pidgey circled the tree trying to see if it could find an opening to attack it. Wait for its little head to appear so it could blow it right out. It was quiet, there was no sound coming from Weedle’s hiding place, not even the rustling of leaves. Both Landon and Pidgey started to sweat as the tension in the air was getting thicker and thicker, they didn’t know what to expect or when it would come out again. But hey, it appeared again, this time on the side of the tree, poking its head out with a confident “Weedle!”

Pidgey instinctively went on the attack and blew its Gust Attack straight at it, but still in the end, missing its target. “Weedle!” It appeared again, making Pidgey attack once more, but missing again. It appeared again, and again, and again, and again! But no matter how many times Pidgey blew its Gust, it never hit its desired target. This was getting them nowhere. Landon had to let Pidgey get in close or they would be there all day, or worse, Pidgey would get exhausted. It was now or never and Landon chose now.

“Pidgey, it’s time to get up close and personal with our friend Weedle over there. Dive after it, but be careful!

“Coo coo!” Pidgey sounded off almost as it were waiting for that exact opportunity. It spread its wings, and followed orders no questions asked, diving straight for the tree that the Weedle hid in. And speak of the devil, the Weedle popped its head out of the tree once again thinking it was still evading Gusts, but not this time. “Weeeeee-!” it screamed frantically as it saw Pidgey swooping straight for it. Thinking fast, it ducked under the leaves once again just narrowly dodging the swoop. It barely got away. Pidgey was prepared for such an occasion, so it turned once again, this time earlier than before. In doing so, its turn forced it to go lower, descending past the very tree Weedle was in. A smart idea as Weedle wouldn’t know where the Pidgey was once it wanted to pop out again. Pidgey glided around the middle of the tree’s trunk waiting for Weedle to appear again, but it wouldn’t have to for long.

With its sharp bird eyes, it quickly spotted the Weedle crawling across a tree branch. Most likely rushing to the spot it wanted to pop out from next. He had it now. Pidgey gave a wily grin and began to make its ascent towards the unsuspecting bug. “Coooo!” Pidgey cried as it knew it was gonna hit Weedle without fail, there was no way it could dodge at the range. Weedle turned its head as Pidgey was practically right in its face, completely surprised that it had been caught. “Weeeeeee!” It screamed as it immediately broke into a sweat. There was nowhere for it to run, nowhere for it to hide, it as trapped on that tree branch like a sitting duck. Or was it? Weedle felt itself tilting back and got an idea. There was no time to think about it, it had to act, so it trusted its instincts and fell backwards making Pidgey’s attack miss. It actually missed. Both Landon and Pidgey were shocked.

Weedle’s tiny back legs were its saving grace as it clung to the branch, hanging upside down with no problem whatsoever. More ideas racked in its brain as it began to swing back and forth, back and forth on the branch ready to fling itself somewhere, and that somewhere was up. After one final swing it jets into the bulk of the tree with the sound of leaves rustling about. It was out of their vision once again. Pidgey decided to try and scout for it once more, swinging by the middle of the tree once again, but this time it didn’t see it. Things were back to square one as they saw no Weedle anywhere. However it would not be them getting the jump on Weedle, but Weedle getting the jump on them!

Out popped Weedle like a bolt of lightning, leaping from the tree waving its tiny nubs around. With that daring jump, its timing paid off as it landed right on Pidgey’s back. Pidgey was completely caught off guard as the weight of the Weedle almost knocked it right out of the sky. Weedle was a little bigger than Pidgey, however it was strong enough to keep flying despite the extra weight. This wouldn’t bode well for it however as Weedle had a very clear target to jab with its stinger, which was its complete intention. “Coo!” Pidgey screamed as it saw the glint of the needle’s point, with Weedle ready to strike.

“No way… Pidgey get it off quick!”

Pidgey had to work fast or else it would be down and out faster than it could say “coo coo.” Pidgey picked up speed and dove trying to let the velocity un-stick Weedle from its back, but this did not work. Weedle’s feet held on tight and there was nothing stopping it from thrusting its head straight for Pidgey’s neck or back. Weedle struck for the neck, but Pidgey was aware enough to move it out of the way. The needle was so thick, moving out of the way completely was impossible. The point didn’t connect, however the rest grazed Pidgey’s neck harmlessly. Weedle struck again, this time on the other side, however the result was the same. The bobbing and weaving in the air harshly affected Pidgey’s flying as it literally twisted and flipped in the air, almost dangerously. Landon needed to think fast, he needed to get the Weedle off as well as defeat it in one move, because after these stunts from Pidgey he was witnessing currently, there was no doubt the poor thing would be out of gas. He gritted his teeth as the gears worked and worked trying to think of a plan and he then he had it!

“Pidgey, I want you to do one more Gust! Use the momentum to your advantage!”

Pidgey was going at varying speeds through the air and could barely hear Landon, but it trusted its tiny ears of what it thought it heard and followed. Diving down, Pidgey proceeded to fly in a circle. The momentum of the dive sent Pidgey spinning around and around, increasing in speed in mere second. The speed from the spins began to whip up a mighty wind, a wind that began to turn into a twister that grew in size. The leaves moved from the force of the winds and the grass danced violently as a miniature tornado was created as the end result. Weedle’s tiny feet were being pried off one by one, it couldn’t hold on despite its valiant efforts. In the end, Weedle is sucked inside the small twister, screaming out in despair. “Weeeeedllllle!”

Landon heard its painful cries and it felt like a knife was being driven through his heart. It sounded so scared, but with a bit of confidence as it whirled inside the twister that twisted in the center of the trees. Landon tried to stay strong, he tried not to think of the end result, but it came so suddenly he wasn’t ready for it. Pidgey stopped its winged whirl and flew away from the twister, making it dissipate almost instantly. And in dissipation, Weedle had no where to go but away as it slammed into a tree, ending the battle. It was down.

This was it, this was the opportunity he needed in order to capture it! All he needed to do was throw the ball and hope for the best, but... Landon hesitated, his hand shook, his knees buckled, it was too soon. He wasn’t ready to throw his ball yet. He thought the twister would have at least lasted a few more seconds, or minutes. His hand shook uncontrollably with the ball inside as he saw the Weedle lying on the ground, completely in a daze. His brain told him to throw it, but his body said “no.” Landon’s internal struggle was taking up too much time, he had to make a decision or the Weedle would get up and fight back again. Landon swallowed everything and took a chance: He decided to throw the ball.

“Fly Pokeball!”

Landon immediately enlarged the ball and tossed it with all of his might. Fear forced him to throw the ball harder than intended, making it go at a dangerous speed. The ball hits the Weedle dead on in the head, sucking it inside. Landon’s eyes were closed the whole time, but he eventually opened them once he heard the sound of mechanical struggles. He saw the little ball twitch around on the ground as the bug inside tried its hardest to get out. It shook and jumped as the button in the middle glowed red, notifying that it was trying to seal the Pokemon inside. After a few more moments of struggling, the Weedle finally gave up. The ball sealed, the heat was released and Weedle was captured.

“I-I caught it?”

Landon was surprised. He was surprised that he had successfully captured the Pokemon, but moreover, he was surprised at how he felt. His sadness was gone, his hesitation was non existent, and his fear was as if it wasn’t even there. Landon was happy, he was thrilled, he was excited. The feeling he wanted to have all this had finally arrived, forcing him to jump in the air and shout at the top of his lungs:

“I did it!!”

“Coo coo!” Pidgey shouted as it finally came in for a landing. Finally taking a rest, Pidgey landed on Landon’s head. Landon quickly ran over to retrieve his captured Weedle, picking up the ball in his hand, gripping it tightly. When he wrapped his fingers around the metal container, he almost felt… empowered. What was this feeling? Slowly raising the ball to eye level, numerous thoughts raced in his mind, but the main question was: Did I really catch this Pokemon? Last time he basically panicked and captured his Pidgey out of sheer instinct, but this time, this time was different. He felt no fear, he felt no regret, was his fear gone, just like that? As Pidgey perched on his shoulder it wondered why Landon was so captivated with the ball, tilting its head.

“You see this Pidgey? This is my first step into become a champion, but it’s only gonna get harder…”

Pidgey gleefully agreed, raising its wing in acknowledgment. Pidgey knew what Landon was talking about and this meant that their bond was quickly growing.

“Come on, there’s gotta be plenty of new Pokemon here for me to catch!”

“Coo Coo?”

“Well, not all of them, just the ones I like. I’ve seen the ones I really want in books when I was growing up.”

“Coo coo cooo.”

“Don’t give me that look, fine if a really good one shows up I’ll catch it no questions asked. Deal?”

“Coo coo!”

“Looks like you’re eager for friends.”

Landon laughed and tossed the ball around a little, but he forgot that he already caught Pidgey a new friend. It dawned on him that Weedle was still cooped up in the ball he was throwing around nonchalantly. Pointing the ball outward, Landon didn’t hesitate to unleash his newly captured companion. Up and out in a white flash, Weedle slowly lifted his head and opened his eyes, realizing that it had been let out.

“Wee?”

Weedle quickly turned around to see an excited Landon and Pidgey, but was startled that they were still there. Landon suspected that Weedle didn’t know that it was captured, so he proceeded to explain things to the yellow worm Pokemon.

“Hey there, sorry for roughing you up like that, but it’s the heat of the battle you know?”

“Wee.”

“So it looks like I caught you, I hope you’re not too mad at me for that.”

Weedle shook its head at him and seemed to be happy actually. Landon held out his hand, inviting Weedle to climb up his arm and so it did. As it curled up on his shoulder Landon was finally ready to try and maybe catch more Pokemon. Landon was on the move again, walking through the tall grass and turned his head at every possible corner of the forest. Nothing so far. His luck seemed to have dwindled away as he witnessed no more new Pokemon. All he saw were the occasional Pidgey and maybe a Caterpie or two. However Landon had no will to capture a Caterpie and he already owned a Pidgey; Maybe the toughest Pidgey around even, but nothing else really happened. Was the excitement from catching Weedle the highest point of the day? Well he had to keep in mind that it was only Viridian Forest and if your expectations were high going in there, more often than not, you’d be disappointed.

“Agggh, this is getting me nowhere. What happened to all the Pokemon? Did they just decide to go into hiding? This is a real pain.”

Landon flipped open his Pokedex to see if there were any Pokemon in the area that he may want, but there was a problem: As he looked through the encyclopedia of Pokemon, there were only pictures and data of Pokemon he’s scanned. Moreover, there was only data for Pokemon that he actually caught, the ones that were just scanned, were just the photo. This confused Landon as he expected the Pokedex to at least show the picture of what Pokemon came after ones he’s selected. He may have read about or seen Pokedex’s growing up, but he had no clue how they actually really functioned. But, what he was expecting was technically “spoon feeding” so he shrugged it off and continued to do things the hard way… or the only way.

“Let’s see now, I’m in Viridian Forest and from my studies growing up I should know what Pokemon are in here regardless of my Pokedex needing to be filled manually. Now there were Caterpie and if I remember correctly they evolve into… Metapod, then Butterfree! Hmm but those two Pokemon might be rare to find, I’m already having bad luck as it is. Okay, now there’s also Weedle-“

“Wee.”

“-And you, evolve into Kakuna and theeeen, Beedrill! Oh-ho baby, that’s gonna be awesome. And now we come to Pidgey… Hm, man even though I always wanted one I can’t seem to remember what you evolve into.”

“Coo coo.” Pidgey seemingly cleared its throat and decided to do an imitation of his evolved form. “Pidgeeooo!”

Landon laughed at its impersonation of a Pidgeotto it would seem and petted it on the head. With that disturbingly accurate imitation of a Pidgeotto, it was enough for Landon to remember what came after the second stage bird, but before he could put his finger on it, something caught all of their attention.

“Someone’s coming!”

The sound of a snapping twig made Landon and his two companions panic. Thinking purely on instinct, Landon dove into a bush to the side and covered up. Pidgey and Weedle decide to do the same. With his head down, Landon listened in closely to what had decided to walk its way over to his general area. It was indeed footsteps, meaning it could be a person. To make sure, he slowly lifted his head over the leaves and parted a few branches to have a good view of who the mystery “person” is. As he zoned his vision in on the figure, what he would find out would blow his mind. It was tall, green and bared wings on its back for flight, an insect? But what really made things clear were the sword like appendages it had, scythe like arms that glimmered in the sunlight. Landon’s expression was pure disbelief as he finally muttered the name of the creature he was gazing upon.

“A Scyther… Holy Cr-!”

Landon was about to completely blow his cover as he sprang up to his feet shouting those words, but luckily he had back up to cover him from doing anything stupid. Weedle literally leapt into his face and wrapped its body around his mouth. The momentum of its jump knocked its trainer over and to the ground, out of the view of the wild mantis. Just in time, as Scyther veered its head giving sort of a grunt wondering what had just screamed out. It saw nothing, so it went back to its original business.

“Phew, thanks buddy.”

Landon pried the suction cups of Weedle from his face, with a bit of trouble of course, and continued his quiet viewing of the rare Pokemon. A Scyther, all the way out here? Impossible, Landon thought to himself as he craned his neck out further to get a glimpse at what the Scyther’s agenda would be. Scyther raised its bladed arms up and out giving a loud cry, before it started chopping at a tree trunk it was opposing. Landon put two and two together and figured that it was just training. Either that or it had a grudge against that certain tree of something. Training or not, Landon wasn’t going to sit there all day and let this opportunity pass him by. Scyther, in fact happened to be his favorite Pokemon of all time.

Landon always dreamed of owning a Scyther when he finally became a trainer, even though they scared him as a little kid. Why wouldn’t they be scary? They’re giant bugs with swords for hands, any person in their right mind would be terrified if they were to come face to face with it and not know what this thing was. Over the years Landon grew to respect the Pokemon and soon dream to achieve it. It was one of his goals and he even had tons of Scyther merchandise in his room to remind him that one day it soon would be his. Today was that day. Landon, almost in a trance grabs an empty Pokeball from his pocket and began to emerge from the bush.

“Wee!”

Landon’s leg gets caught and Weedle was the snag. It was concerned. Landon snapped out of his drooling frantic trance and looked behind to see a shivering yellow worm, wrapped around his leg and shaking its head. It was afraid.

“Weedle? He-“

“Scyth?!”

Busted: The Scyther finally caught him. Landon turned his head to the green mantis to see it shooting him a menacing leer. Landon was in trouble, he didn’t know what to expect at all. Was it going to attack? Or was it going to flee, flying off into the forest never to be seen again. This rare opportunity seemed to be slipping away more and more in Landon’s mind. All he could do was gulp down the suspense of the moment. The Scyther stood its ground, not moving an inch as it never took its eyes off of Landon. Maybe… Maybe it was waiting for Landon to make a move. Did it notice that Landon was a trainer, or was it just trying to intimidate an intruder? Landon’s shocked eyebrows finally came down and he glared right back at the bug. Leg still snagged by Weedle, Landon stood his ground across from Scyther and showed no fear towards him. It was fight or flight time, and he definitely wasn’t going to be the one to run away.

Landon gently drew his leg back and gestured for his terrified Weedle to crawl up his arm. It does so, but it still shivered uncontrollably. Landon did his best to comfort his new friend, and keep the intensity of the moment between him and the Scyther.

“Weedle, get back in your ball. You don’t have to fight if you don’t want to.”

Weedle nodded as it shook on his shoulder, and Landon finished up by calling Weedle back into his Pokeball. With his little bug out of harm’s way, it was just him and the big bug now. Landon versus Scyther: The moment he has waited for his whole life. He was ready, but was Pidgey? Landon had forgotten about his bird companion for a brief moment and saw that it was no longer perched on his shoulder. He looked around him and found no Pidgey, but out of the corner of his eye he would locate it. That clever little sneak, Landon’s Pidgey was now perched up on the tree behind the Scyther that was staring him down. Landon didn’t want to blow its cover, so he just nodded in response.

The time had come. Landon was face to face with his dream Pokemon and this moment meant everything. Sweat dripped down his brow as he saw the intensity in the Scyther’s eyes, there was no breaking this Pokemon. Its concentration was rock solid, clearly much more advanced than his current level of Pokemon training. He could feel is inexperience telling him to turn back! Go now, fight another day! But no, Landon stood firm and tall and didn’t move an inch. His ambition, his determination to do the impossible was too great. The wind blew and the leaves brushed from side to side as it seemed like hours had passed by in that very moment. Who was going to make the first move?

Landon slid a foot forward, swung his arm back and shot the most intimidating glare of his life at Scyther. Scyther may have no reacted but he knew, he at least sent a spark flying somewhere in its brain, making it realize he meant business. With a will as strong as iron, Landon slung his arm out, finger extended finally giving an order to the ninja like Pidgey who was just itching to attack!

“Quick Attack!”

Landon shouted, and a split second before those booming words left his mouth, Pidgey sprang into action. With a brilliant white streak, Pidgey flew at a blind speed towards the unsuspecting Scyther, snatching the very leaves out of the tree it was in. The speed it was going, it would be impossible for Scyther to get out of the way in time, this was the first strike and it was going to be a good one. Landon held his position, glaring a hole through the Scyther, knowing Pidgey’s attack was gonna leave a lasting impression.

And just like that, Scyther made its move. Pidgey’s attack passed through like it wasn’t even there, in fact, it truly wasn’t even there. Scyther had vanished right before both their very eyes. Both Landon and Pidgey looked upon the scene to see Scyther disappear in complete shock, but it wouldn’t be gone for long. It was like a blur, and it was hard to tell if it really happened, but Scyther would very soon reappear in the same position it originally was in and strike. Swinging its right arm across the back of Pidgey it nails it dead on. Pidgey had been hit and it had been hit hard as it coiled is neck back in pain, feeling the cold steel of Scyther cut it clear across. The flight was canceled and Pidgey went down in a cloud of dirt and grass. Pidgey had been beaten before the battle had even got off of the ground.

“Pidgey!!”

Landon raced over to the fallen bird and checked its condition, completely shaken by the moment. Did that really happen? Landon saw that Pidgey’s back was badly bruised from the attack and it was barely moving. A red gash was streaked across its feathered back and it could barely mutter out a coo. Pidgey’s body just wasn’t prepared for that kind of attack; he had just gotten it too. In one move, Landon felt defeated. He felt all of his hope and determination shatter like glass, but in an instant he grasped onto one shard. No, he had to keep trying. He still had Charmander, and it was fresh and ready to go. It was his only chance, since Weedle was to stricken with fear.

The red beam absorbed Pidgey back into its ball and Landon replaced that ball with Hotspot’s. He closed his eyes trying to think of his Pidgey in good spirits. Pidgey was the first one to jump on the plan to attack Scyther. They were closer than he realized. Landon rose to his feet and gripped his Charmander’s ball tightly. He was shaking, but he tried his very best to keep that fire that burned inside him. Coin flipping the ball into air, Landon unleashed his signature throw towards the Scyther.

“Hotspot, burn!”

Out came Landon’s Charmander ready to battle, claws up, tail fully lit. Scyther however, was not intimidated at all. It just swiped its blades together and readied itself for another fight. Almost as if it were dusting off the old and preparing for the new. Landon felt insulted. Round two of their battle had begun and Landon was ready for it.

“Spot, Ember Attack!”

Charmander followed Landon’s order, swinging its head back to gather fire in its belly. In an instant, it shot the tiny fireballs directly at its opponent, channeling the fury Landon was giving off. It seemed like Scyther was going to get hit by the attack, but from their past experience, this definitely was not the case. Landon saw it this time. He saw Scyther lean forward before it completely vanished from his vision. Maybe it was the adrenaline from the moment, but Landon actually saw Scyther’s movement. As expected, the Ember Attack completely missed its target and hit the trees across instead. The flames fizzled out before they could cause any real damage to the greenery, so a forest fire wasn’t a problem. Landon moved his eyes to the left, and then to right trying to search for the lightning quick mantis. It was going to show up any second so Landon was trying to be ready for it.

Scyther appeared, and again it was behind its prey, but being behind its prey, also meant that it was right in front of Landon. Landon stumbled back in surprise but tried to keep his footing. If he was startled too much then he would have no time to react to Scyther’s next attack, which came immediately. Landon had to counter attack.

“Spot, down! Now!!”

Charmander didn’t see Scyther coming at all, but it was a good thing Landon gave him a new order. Charmander quickly ducked down and covered his head, which successfully dodged the enemy attack, just in time. Just barely did its attack almost take Charmander’s head off, as Scyther’s blade brushed its tail flame. They got lucky, but there was no doubt that Scyther was not finished with his assault, a second blade strike was coming and both of them knew it.

“Spot, roll into an Ember Attack, quick!”

Charmander followed up its successful duck with a roll onto its back, right when Scyther raised its left arm. The attack was made, and Charmander unleashed its flames into the face of the big mantis. A direct hit! Scyther was stunned as it stumbled backwards in pain. Thinking fast, Landon has Charmander attack once again to capitalize on this grand moment.

“Awesome, now Scratch it down!”

Charmander swung to its feet and prepared its sharp claws to strike. Leaping with all of its little strength, it swiped the Scyther clear across the chest two times. Screaming out in pain, Scyther tries to keep its balance by sticking one of its blades into the soiled ground. They were actually hurting it, this strong Pokemon was on the ropes and Landon could feel it. He could see himself catching this powerful bug Pokemon, he could taste victory. The only way from here is up, so Landon had to keep attacking.

“Give it another Scratch and make it a good one!

Charmander swiped its foot across the floor so it could make a mighty leap once again to do some more damage, but their flurry of attacks were about to be stopped as Scyther had enough. Getting back into its fighting stance after a fearsome war cry, it made its move. Instead this time, it didn’t vanish, it did quite the opposite. Landon and Charmander would soon be seeing double, or triple or quadruple! Scyther was duplicating itself, no, it was creating illusions. Landon knew they were illusions as soon as he saw Charmander scratch straight through what seemed like a mirage. One image of Scyther faded, but 6 more remained. Which one was the real one?

Landon was in big trouble now as all of them looked exactly alike, he couldn’t tell the difference at all and neither could Charmander. He laid his eyes on all of them and tried to pin point the one that was shell and blood. His head started to hurt as they all started moving around in a circle, causing even more confusion. It obviously was its intention, but Landon needed a way out. The only option: Blast them all.

“Spot, blast Ember at all of them!”

Charmander blasted away, one by one, but his attacks were having no contact at all. Each one he blasted was not the real Scyther, and those same illusions would come back soon after. It was like it was taunting him. Charmander’s fuel was running low and Landon could see it, its Ember attacks were getting slower and slower with each attack. It must’ve blasted at least 8 streams in one sitting. This was getting them nowhere. Landon had to use his head before it could make an attack, but it was too late, Scyther was already slicing away. Each copy started zipping past Charmander, hitting him over and over. The illusions just passed through to cause confusion, but the real Scyther was doing some major damage.

“Spot!”

Landon had to think fast of Charmander was gonna end up just like Pidgey. He saw the scars being made on Charmander’s body and had to make it stop. It he couldn’t attack through the illusions to find the real Scyther, than he had to make those illusions go away. As each Scyther went back into their circle around Charmander to prepare for another, Landon found his opening.

“Spot, use Growl in a full circle!”

Barely able to stand Charmander tried to do as Landon commanded as quickly as possible, but its head was throbbing and its wounds were just stinging it all over. It could just lie down and call it a match, but that wasn’t going to happen. Charmander felt Landon’s passion and his will to go the distance, so it sucked up the pain and followed orders. A growl was what Landon expected and it’s what he got. Charmander blasted its voice around the area and swung its body around to make contact with all of the Scyther images, as well as the real one. This attack would be a success as the images all gave a look of shock and disappear instantly, leaving the real Scyther to take a few steps back.

“It’s now or never! Spot, Scratch Attack!”

It truly was now or never as Landon knew that Charmander could only go so far now. It was exhausted fighting such a high level Pokemon, with itself being so young. Charmander ran with what little strength it had and struck with claws held high. Scyther found its footing again and readied its blades. The scratch was made, but it was blocked. Charmander struggled to break through Scyther’s guard but too many things came into factor that prevented it from happening. Charmander’s size compared to Scyther, its position being in the air while Scyther is firmly on the ground, and finally Charmander’s health. It was just too tired to give the extra effort to break through, or at least try any harder. In one move, Scyther deflected Charmander’s claw and left it suspended in the air, open for attack. Slash, went Scyther’s blade across the front of the air born lizard as a blinding light trailed behind.

Charmander screamed out in extreme pain as the battle was over. The battle ended with Charmander flopping to the ground almost lifelessly. Landon couldn’t believe it. It was over. He lost and all of his Pokemon were unable to battle any further. He fell to his knees completely in shock as he saw Scyther rear its neck in his direction. It threw him a glare, but it wasn’t the same one he gave when their confrontation first began. It was different, almost as if he were analyzing him, making a decision in his mind. Indeed he was making a decision, and that was whether or not Landon was worth fighting again. Turning its head to the same tree he was attacking before, it raised his blade and attacked it one last time leaving a large slash mark in the trunk. It was a message: We meet back here again when you’re ready.

Landon saw and understood everything Scyther did, but it wasn’t fully processing in his brain as he still had the loss square in his mind. All he could do was watch as the Scyther finally spread its wings and took flight into the sky, flying deeper into the forest. It was gone…

Charmander was still down and Landon had to check on its condition. His legs wouldn’t work from the massive trauma he was experiencing so he had to crawl his way towards his starter Pokemon. It took him some time, but he eventually turned over his fallen friend and saw the damage that had been done. Just like Pidgey, Scyther’s mark was made and it went straight down across Charmander’s face all the way to the bottom of his left waist. Its flame was weak as it flickered on the grass, it barely danced around. Landon scooped Hotspot into his arms and cradled it, hearing its weak cry in his ear. Landon wanted to cry himself as his opportunity was gone, but the real reason was that he wasn’t ready. Even if he did come back, the same story would be told and the same result would be made. Landon winched his eyes and thought about how unfair it was to even find the thing here and now, and questioned why.

His legs began to work again as he stood up with his head down, far down. He didn’t want to put Spot back in its ball. He wanted to hold it as a reminder of his place. To remind him that he was a fool to even think that he could catch a thing such as a Scyther. With his Pidgey and Charmander out of commission, and the thought of his Weedle unable to even confront the mantis Pokemon, Landon’s only option was to move ahead, to the Pokemon Center in Pewter City.

Today wasn’t that day.

-------------------------------------------------

A Caterpie slinked its way up a tree and waved its feeler around to check its surroundings, but its slink was stopped by a pair of feminine hands that come out and grab it. The same feminine hands that were at the Pokemon Center back in Viridian. Only this time, more of the figure was shown as her back was up against the tree the Caterpie was crawling on, holding the Pokemon up against her chest. She was frowning as around the corner it should leaves blowing in the wind, around the tree that was carved by the Scyther as a meeting point. The scene was sad and she could feel the pain of the one she sought to see.

[Fisheye]

I'd forgotten about this. It vanished. Good thing I got bored and started browsing.

Well, one thing that really impressed me; your character is human. That sounds strange.
What I mean, he's not like most people, just running around and throwing those balls at random Pokemon like maniacs. And suddenly cares about them when they're theirs.
He thinks, feels, and cares. It's nice that you tried to develop Landon's character.
And his constant failures that don't really seem like failures also keep him in check. But we'll still see.

So far, so good. You keep hinting towards that girl at the end of each chapter, you got me wondering who she is. An obvious reaction, but hey, let's be blatant.
This is pretty good, like I said before. I'll just wait til the next chapter I guess. I need to sleep now anyways.

[ActionMan]

This is a great fic that has potential to become one of the best fics on this site. Keep up the good work.

[LinkG07]

Pokemon: New Future
Adven. 1

Chapter 4: Bug Training! Shocking Revelations!

It was quiet. Not a single Pokemon was heard, and not even the wind made a sound. It was eerie, at least in the mind of Landon who was completely lost. Not so much as in direction, but more in the mind. He just aimlessly walked down the grassy road with his eyes completely glued to his injured Charmander. It was resting, but he could tell that it was out of commission and could not battle, or even stand up. Landon thought that everything would look up from that point on. The point when he captured a new Pokemon without choking. Yet again, he was back to gloom and despair, feeling as if everything was crashing down. When he really thought about, everything seemed to come too fast. It’s only been two days and he’s had more excitement than other moments in his entire life combined. He beat his rival, he made friends with every Pokemon he’s met, he caught a Pidgey and a Weedle and now he just laid eyes upon his favorite Pokemon only to see it defeat him and bolt.

Landon was like a zombie slowly trekking through the Viridian forest not even noticing the young boy who was not too far from his current location. The boy was crouched down and scratching his head about something, but Landon just kept walking with only one destination in mind: The Pewter City Pokemon Center.

“Aw shoot, now this is a sticky sit’ation now in’ it? How am I gonna find um’ now wit’out their collars? Hey, hey you! Could’ya help me out a bit? I reckon I can make it worth yer while!”

The boy tried to get Landon’s attention but Landon didn’t even so much as lift his head. This perplexed the lad as he looked at him just walk by the opening he saw him in. Shifting the straw hat on his head and repositioning the wheat root in his mouth he decides to do things the hard way: Force the other kid to pay attention to his misfortune ad possibly help out. It was a rude way to approach things, but he felt that Landon was being rude first, so off he went.

“’Eeeeey, you! Mr. Gloomy britches!”

Since he still couldn’t get Landon’s attention he resorted to plan B: Throw a rock at him and so he did. He hurled the rock nailing Landon square in the head which completely knocked him out of his gloomy state, but at the same time ticking him off.

“Ow! What the heck man?!”

“I’m tryin’ to git you to help me over here, now come on I’m really in a fix!”

“Well I would love to help you, but I’ve got some injured Pokemon on my hands, so I have to get to a Pokemon Center right away.”

“Well shoot, if you have some hurt critters, than I reckon my Pa can patch them up real quick.”

“What, really?

“No foolin’. Tell ya’ what, if we show you some fine hospitality will you be willin’ to help me do some searchin’?”

Landon had no choice, there was no telling how far he was from getting out of the forest and an opportunity like this was just leaping in his face. He’d be a fool not to take it. Looking upon the slumbering face of his Charmander he made up his mind, and made his way over to the other kid to give his answer.

“I’ll do it.”

“Hoo-wee, then I guess we have ourselves a deal! Put er’ there partner. The name’s Goodwin, Goodwin Fetcher.”

“Um, Landon.”

Landon shook Goodwin’s extended hand, completing their formalities with both of them smiling. Landon couldn’t put his finger on it, but there was something about him that made him feel uneasy. The grip of his hand shake was firm and there was visible excitement in his face, but why did it make him feel so, off? Landon had time to think as Goodwin began to lead him back to his residence with a snap of his suspenders.

“So where ya’ from Landon? You look like one of dem’ city boys.”

“Oh, um, I’m from Goldenrod City. It’s pretty far from here, in the Johto region.”

“No kiddin’?! The Johto region?! An’ Goldenrod City, you really are a city boy.”

Goodwin laughed and slapped Landon on the back which made him jerk forward. He seemed pretty peppy despite his situation, which Landon had no idea what was, but it obviously had to be bad from their meeting. Landon took the time to ask him about what was troubling him so much and Goodwin was more than willing to answer.

“Well now, I guess it’s all my fault if I remember correctly. I forgot to lock the gate so all of our precious critters up and ran away.”

“You seem positive. I think I remember you saying that their collars were off. Isn’t that gonna make things 2x more harder.”
“Shoot, it’s nothing to huff and puff or cry at, you just gotta work hard to do better next time, and when things get ya down you just smile, even when ya messed up big time.”

“That’s pretty optimistic of you.”

“Hee-hee, well optimistic is ma middle name. You gotta know when ta mope around and when ta get up, dust yerself off n’ laugh.”

It would seem Landon had been getting plenty of lectures as of late. First Toru, now Goodwin. He felt like a child again, except now he was being lectured by other kids which made him feel silly. He’s been doing nothing but moping around even when he said to himself that he was gonna man up and take things head on. Maybe he was too emotional for his own good. Before he knew it, they both had made it to Goodwin’s house and it seemed like a nice place. It had brown paint and trims here and there, with a nice big gate to keep Pokemon in.

“Pa! We got a visitor!”

The front door opened as soon as Goodwin called out and out came a man. It was a man with a bit of fuzz under his chin and a chip on his shoulder as he saw both his son and Landon. Goodwin’s father gave a smile as he walked further out of their house to greet his son.

“Well now, what do we have here?”

“This is Landon Pa, he’s got some Pokemon who need some medical attention right away.”

As Landon walked over to Goodwin’s father, he instantly knew that this was serious. He took one look at Landon’s Charmander and shook his head. Without even wanting an explanation he took Hotspot from Landon’s possession and brought it inside.

“Come on in. If ya have anymore Pokemon who need to get patched up, don’t hesitate to ask.”

The door was shut and all of them were inside so business could begin. Goodwin’s father placed Charmander on a few blankets that were folded and carefully positioned his tail high in the air so that it was out of the way and it couldn’t set anything ablaze. Caring for a lizard with a flame on its tail looked to be very tough work, but Landon could tell that it was in very capable hands. He watched an expert really go to work on making a Pokemon feel better. As Goodwin’s father dabbed Charmander’s wounds with a wet rag, with both the water and the wound being touched bringing it pain, it was ready to be really treated.

“You can call me Kurt, I’m Goodwin’s Pa. If you’d be so kind as to hand me any other injured Pokemon you have, I’d be happy to get to work.”

“This is very nice of you. Thank you.”

“It’s what I do son.”

Landon quickly handed Kurt his Pokeball containing his injured Pidgey, and he proceeded in grabbing more items to bring the Pokemon comfort. With another pile of blankets ready he carefully unleashed the injured bird from its Pokeball.

“Easy does it now.”

As the light faded, Pidgey was belly down on top of the set blankets, ready to be treated. Kurt saw the damage that was done and was a bit shaken as sweat dripped down his forehead. They were wounded farther than any Viridian Forest Pokemon was capable doing. He had to know what kind of Pokemon could do this much damage. Wiping down the back of Pidgey it coo’d out weakly and shook in pain.

“Tell me Landon, what in the world happened for your Pokemon to be in this condition. I’m plum sure no Caterpie was able to pull something like this off. Why not sit down and tell us the whole story, cause this is mighty terrible work, that’s for sure.”

“Pa, Landon was gonna help me find the missin’ Pokemon.”

“I know son, Landon seems like a nice young man so I trust he’d help someone if they hollered loud enough.”

“I almost didn’t if it weren’t for your son, but yeah, I guess I’d help someone if they asked for it.”

“That’s great, now let’s get down to business then!”

“Now hold on Goodwin, I still wanna know about Landon’s Pokemon.”

“Right, well you see, I happened to run into a Scyther when I was out there.”

“What?! Did I hit you too hard in the head or somethin’, there ain’t no Scyther’s ‘round here.”

“But it’s true, I tried to catch it, but it beat me…”

“Mhm, I reckon this is the work of a Scyther alright.”

“Really Pa??”

“Yup, these are some nasty slash marks, only a Pokemon of that level could do this much damage in a place like this. That was some mighty high thinkin’ don’t ya think Landon?
“I know. I guess my ambition overshadowed my judgment. I just wanted it so bad.”

Kurt could see the agony in Landon’s eyes as he saw him lower his head and grip his pants legs tightly. He could see the desire to obtain that rare Pokemon and he could see that it meant a lot to him. Charmander and Pidgey were peacefully resting so it was time for the next step in healing their wounds.

“Grace, could you come in here a moment please! Bring some Super Potions while you’re in there too.”

“Super Potions? What in the world happened that you need something that strong?”

Grace, Goodwin’s mother came out wiping down a plate with a cloth. She looked upon everyone in the room and first laid her eyes on Landon who was the first to notice her walk in. Blonde hair at waist length she was confused as to who this young man exactly was in her home.

“Oh, and who might this be?”

“This is Landon Ma, he’s got some injured critters here and he’s gonna help me find our missing Pokemon.”

Grace saw the damaged Pokemon that lied on the blankets and gave a mighty gasp. She saw their great wounds and instantly knew what to do; she went to get the Super Potions that were requested. Reaching over the counter and into the cabinet, she grabbed two orange and red sprays and quickly went back into the main room. She quickly handed them to her husband who positioned these “sprays” over the wounds of Landon’s Pokemon. Spraying down Charmander first, who yelped out in pain and waved its tiny arms about, and then Pidgey who squawked out and shuffled on its belly. The pain was short, but the difference was visible. Landon could see their bruises slowly start to become less and less visible on their bodies. The redness began to fade and their true color began to return in the places they were scraped in.

“That’s amazing.”

“Just give these two a nice long rest and they’ll be just fine. I’ll bandage them up while you and Goodwin start wrangling up those Pokemon. Got it?”

“Yes sir!”

Both Landon and Goodwin stand and salute to Kurt as they accept their mission. However Landon had a very important question in order for him to be effective in this Pokemon search.

“Um, how many Pokemon are we exactly looking for? It would help me a great deal if I knew.”

“Hmm now let’s see, we’re missing four, all except one right Ma?”

“That’s right, Butterfree should be out back watering my garden.”

Butterfree, wasn’t that the final evolution of Caterpie? If a Butterfree was outside, then that would be the perfect opportunity to gather some data for his Pokedex. Landon politely excused himself and walked over to a nearby window scouting for the mysterious bug Pokemon. As his eyes gazed upon some flowers that bloomed over on the side of the house he looked up to see a fluttering wing; a big butterfly wing which circled the flowers in what seemed like Grace’s garden. However Landon couldn’t get a good look at it as it was too far around the house. Landon decided to climb and lean in order to get a good shot at the Butterfree with his Pokedex if he were take it out now. With one hand on the window frame, Landon’s view of the Butterfree became clearer as he finally got a full look at it.

It was quite a sight, with its stubby little hands and its big white and black wings it hovered over Goodwin’s mother’s garden, watering the soil as well as the full blooming plants. All Landon had to do now was point his Pokedex at it. Reaching into his pocket he slowly took out the red encyclopedia, only to lose his grip on the window frame and fall flat on his face. Landon may have been down, but he fortunately still got the data as his arm was conveniently pointed in the Butterfree’s direction.

Butterfree: The Butterfly Pokemon – Butterfree is the final evolved form of Caterpie. Its wings are protected by rain-repellent dust. As a result, this Pokemon can fly about even in rain. In battle, it flaps its wings at great speed to release highly toxic dust into the air.

“Free?” The Butterfree said as it took notice to Landon’s big goof. It was confused as it didn’t know who this strange person was, as well as why he was laying on the floor with his face in the dirt. Its eyes position upright meaning it didn’t know what to do, should it attack because of an intruder, or should it run away and notify its owners? Butterfree would be relieved of its tension as Goodwin showed up just in time.

“Yer a funny fella aren’t ya? What are ya doin’ kissin’ the dirt like that?

“It good for the complexion…”

Landon jokingly retorted as he got his face out of the ground and sat against the house. As he rubbed his face, Goodwin would take notice towards the device he was holding.

“Whoa, is that one of them there Pokedexs I’ve been hearing so much about?”

“Huh, uh yeah, I just got a couple days ago.”

“Shoot, I would have me one of them myself, but I would much rather stay here and help ma’ folks out, than travel around ba’ myself.”

“Really?”

“Sure, nothing beats helpin’ family and a hard day’s work. My folks have had this little cottage here for about twenty years now, and they plan on passin’ it down to me when they move on. When I’m old enough, I’ll settle down here and then pass it on to ma’ kids too.”

“Such a simple life… It sounds like you have everything planned out.”

“Yup, nuttin’ better. Now com’on, what say we get to work?”

“Yeah.”

“It’s alright Butterfree, this is my friend Landon. You can get back to work now.”

As Goodwin waved Butterfree on to continue its daily chores, Goodwin grabbed Landon and they headed towards the forest in search of the missing Pokemon. In their search they were gonna need some extra eyes for the search so it would be a good idea to have some Pokemon on hand.

“So ya’ got any Pokemon on ya beside the ones back at the house?”

“I’ve got one. Want me to bring it out?”

“It’d be mighty kind of ya.”

Landon grabbed the ball that held his Weedle from his pocket and unleashed it onto the grassy floor. As the light from its release faded, the yellow worm opened its beady eyes and gazed upon Landon and a person it didn’t know causing it to give out a confused: “Wee?”

“Weedle this is my friend Goodwin, we’re on a mission to find some missing Pokemon and we could use your help.”

Weedle looked around as if it were looking for something and it seemed troubled that it couldn’t find what it was looking for. Landon had a feeling what it was in search of, so he had to comfort it by petting it on the side of the head.

“I’m sorry Weedle, but, Hotspot and Pidgey aren’t with me… They were injured in my battle.”

“Wee…”

“Hey hey, it’s not your fault, and it never will be. It just wasn’t you time and there’s nothing wrong with that, okay?”

“Well call me Christine, why didn’t ya say ya’ had a Weedle? Ain’t this a big coinky-dink?

“Huh?”

Before Goodwin would answer Landon’s confusion, he heard something quite frightening in his ear. A buzzing sound that seemed to come closer and closer and closer. As he turned his head, it’s just barely taken off by a giant flying object with sharp points. Landon’s reaction: Shoving Goodwin out of the way from the oncoming danger and take cover.

“Look out!”

As Landon ducked and covered he saw that the flying object was a massive insect with three sharp pointed stingers extending from its arms and rear end. It hovered above and literally eyeballed Landon as he covered his head on the ground. It almost could’ve done some serious damage to both of them if he hadn’t acted so soon, but in the end, all of this would be one big misunderstanding.

“Whoa whoa whoa, hold it Landon. It’s just my Beedrill.”

“Beedrill? That thing’s yours?”

“Beedrill, shame on you for swooping down so low, didn’t I tell you that it’s dangerous when I’m around company?”

Beedrill lowered its head to both Goodwin and Landon, descending down to both of them. As it hovered closer it seemed almost apologetic on its approach and lowered its stingers from harm’s way. Landon gave out a sigh of relief seeing as how it wasn’t trying to hurt them on purpose, it was just excited to be back with its trainer, which Goodwin was.

“We’re workin’ on it. Landon I’d like you to meet my good buddy Beedrill. He was ma’ very first Pokemon when it was a tiny Weedle.”

“Bzz.”

“Oh, its okay. It’s nice to see one of these things up close.”

Landon reached in his pocket and decided that this would be the perfect time to gather data on this new Pokemon with his Pokedex. Better sooner than later, he thought.

Beedrill: The Poison Bee Pokemon – Beedrill is the final evolved from of Weedle. It is capable of flying at high speeds and attacks using the large venomous stingers on its forelegs and tail. This Pokemon may often appear in swarms.

Weedle was intrigued by the Pokemon it would soon become. Both Pokemon exchanged glances, but Weedle seemed to be intimidated by it as it seemed to shrink its head back and give out a tiny “Wee…” Landon took notice to this fear and decided to pick his companion up to comfort it.

“This is great, maybe we could do a little training together. We both have the same class of Pokemon so it might bring a little more adventure to our search. What do ya say?”

“It’s fine with me, but my Weedle seems a little intimidated by your Beedrill. Don’t worry he’s a little like me; being sort of a wimp.”

“Wee!”

Landon laughed as Weedle felt insulted by his joke, but Landon didn’t mean anything bad by it. With that insult, Weedle decided that it would go along with their little training idea and nodded towards Goodwin’s Beedrill.

“Hoo-wee, this is goin’ be fun! It’ll help us out a lot in our future, you being a Pokemon trainer I bet this will do wonders.”

“I’m sure hope you’re right.”

“So did ya find any of them while you were searchin’, Beedrill?”

“Bzz.”

“How many?”

“Bzz Bzz Bzz.”

“Three? Hoo, that’s some mighty fine work there. Lead us to um boy.”

As Goodwin gave the order, his Beedrill took off in the direction they needed to go. Quickly they began to follow it as it sailed over the trees while they kept a close eye on it. Beedrill stated that it found three of the 4 missing Pokemon so it was a good start for their mission. Now all that was needed was for Landon to figure out which specific Pokemon they were looking for.

“We’re lookin’ for a Nidoran-M , a Nidoran-F, a Sandshrew and a Parasect. All of them were used for tendin’ to our gardens, like plantin’ and seedin’. They don’t usually run away when they get loose, so there mus’ be a reason why they all up and took off.”

“I wonder what-“

“There’s one!”

Both Landon and Goodwin slide to a stop as they witness a Pokemon next to a tree trunk sleeping. It was light blue and seemed to have spikes on its ears and back which was quite odd. In order to find out which Pokemon they were dealing with was, Landon decided to use his trusty Pokedex to gather some info. Of course, he could’ve waited for Goodwin to say which Pokemon it was, but this way seemed to kill two birds with one stone.

Nidoran-F (Female): The Poison Pin Pokemon - Though small, it must be treated with caution because of its powerfully toxic barbs. Compared to its male counterpart, Nidoran-M (Male) the females have smaller horns.

“That’s Susie, she’s a shy one so you can’t cause any sudden noises or she’ll run away. She a delicate one, she is. “

“Gotcha.”

Both Landon and Goodwin quietly try to sneak up on the tiny Pokemon as it snoozed in the shade of the tree. It looked quite peaceful as it breathed softly, so they had to be very gentle on both their approach and on their execution. However, someone had other ideas as it crawled from Landon’s shoulder down to the grass to move ahead. Both took notice to Weedle’s determined slink as it quickly made its way over to the sleeping Susie. Landon was three seconds away from screaming “Weedle, no!” but as it reached Susie, it poked it with his round pink nose, gently nudging it awake.

The Nidoran-F slowly opened its eyes to see Weedle greeting it, giving a yawn in response. As Weedle tried to talk to it to get it to understand the situation, it reeled its head back in shyness. It seemed that Goodwin was right, it didn’t seem to trust Weedle at first, but until it pointed it in the direction of both Landon and Goodwin standing not too far away it understood: It was time to go home. “Nido.” It said as it scurried its way over to Goodwin who happily greeted it, by picking it up in his arms.

“There you are girl, why’d you run off like that?

“Nido…”

“Wow, nice going Weedle.”

“Weedle.”

Landon understood what Weedle was doing: It was trying to prove itself. Now that both Charmander and Pidgey were out of commission, it felt that it was its job to pick up the extra weight and run with it. Even despite Landon telling it not to worry, it still seemed like it was trying to prove its worth for its blunder a while back. Landon understood perfectly and just smiled.
“Alright Beedrill, keep goin’!”

Beedrill zoomed off once again to a different location where they’d possibly find another Pokemon. The chase continued as they swerved pasted bushes and dodged through trees in order to keep up with the speeding bee who had no obstacles in the air. Another was discovered! However it seemed to be caught on something. Landon and Goodwin witness a tan colored back and tail patterned with lines going across, struggling with something that was not visible due to a bush being in the way. It was hard to see as well as hard to tell which Pokemon this was, but that was what the Pokedex was for, so he didn’t hesitate to open it up.

Sandshrew: The Mouse Pokemon – It burrows deep underground in arid locations far from water and only emerges to hunt for prey. If threatened, it curls itself up into a ball for protection.

Indeed it was a Sandshrew. However what it was pulling against with such aggressive force was still a mystery. As they got closer, the idea of it being caught on something was becoming less and less likely as they saw that its paws were firmly grasped onto something.

“Max, what in the name of Celadon are you doin’?”

Its struggle didn’t let up at any given moment as the object it was struggling over was a shiny red apple, but the real surprise was what it was struggling with: A little yellow mouse with long ears. It looked pretty young as it cutely struggled to obtain what Sandshrew was trying to obtain. Its unique features, such as the black stripes on the tips of its ears and its red cheeks caught Landon’s attention since he knew exactly what it was.

“No way, a Pikachu!”

“Well I’ll be.”

The struggle was still underway so this would the perfect time to catch this new Pokemon as well. With his Pokedex already out, all Landon had to do was point.

Pikachu: The Mouse Pokemon - It has small electric sacs on both its cheeks. If threatened, it looses electric charges from the sacs. When several of these Pokemon gather, their electricity can build and cause lightning storms.

The little Pikachu put up a valiant effort but in the end, Sandshrew was the one who would keep the delicious looking apple. This upset Pikachu greatly, so much so to the point that it started to shoot sparks out of its red cheeks. Electric sparks that began to fester until it unleashed a yellow flash of energy on the opposing mouse. Despite its gritting efforts, Pikachu’s electric shock did absolutely nothing to Max. It just simply shrugged the attack off, laughed a little and began to chew on the apple. Pikachu began to fume. Gathering even more electricity for another attack, but its moment of anger would be cut short when Goodwin came by and picked Sandshrew up while he held Susie in his other arm.

“Max, you shouldn’t be out here arguing over food with wild Pokemon, we have food at home. You should be ashamed.”

Sandshrew wasn’t sorry, and it was blatantly so as he stuck his tongue out and gave Pikachu a raspberry. This put it over the edge. Pikachu gathered an even larger amount of energy than before and aimed straight for the ground mouse, despite Goodwin holding it in his arms. This spelled bad news as all three of them could be shocked at the same time. Even though Sandshrew would still not be effected Goodwin and Nidoran-F would be the ones to suffer the consequences. Landon couldn’t let that happen so he quickly tossed Weedle into the air, which scares it half to death crying out a big “Weeeedlllllllee!!” and jumped in the way of the attack, shoving Goodwin out of harm’s way.

The flash of electricity was much bigger than last time, meaning it wasn’t just a simple shock, it was a bolt and it hit Landon dead on, frying him to a crisp. When the shock ended, Landon was a nice coal color and he fell over from the pain of it all in a daze; he was fine, but just in numbing pain. Pikachu saw that it hit the wrong target, but it was more confused than concerned, but that confusion would go away as Weedle’s flight would be over, with him landing right on top of Landon’s head. Pikachu was very amused, laughing up a storm and rolling around on the floor.

“Hoo-boy, thanks a bunch Landon, we would’ve been roasted for sure if it weren’t for you.”

“Don’t mention it… Ow…”

Landon didn’t take kindly to Pikachu’s amusement so he let Weedle roll from on top of him and stood to his feet with his legs feeling like they were made of putty. Pikachu stopped laughing as soon as Landon hovered over him. Shaking off the ash and soot from his shocking encounter, Landon stood firm and gave Pikachu a stern look.

“Oh you think that’s funny huh??”

“Actually, it was kin’a funny, Hee-hee”

“You’re not helping.”

“I know.”

Susie and Max agree giving a “Nido nido,” and a “Shrew Shrew,” nodding and laughing a bit with Goodwin. Goodwin noticed that Landon seemed a bit tense. This worried him as he saw how stiff Landon was as he stood across from the tiny Pikachu.

“Well here’s something to laugh at.”

Landon took an empty Pokeball from his pocket and quickly tossed it at the unsuspecting mouse, giving a sudden “Catch!” in the process. Pikachu had no idea what to suspect, so it instinctively caught the white and red sphere with a confused “Pika?” Unfortunately for it, but fortunately for Landon his plan was a success as the button that was supposed to make contact pressed up against its small chest on impact, which activated its capturing mechanism, sucking it inside in a flash of red energy. This was a very unorthodox way of catching Pokemon. Usually the right way was to weaken by battling, then to capture when the time was right, but the way Landon just executed it would usually be considered a rookies mistake.

However, the ball shook up and down, and side to side as the red light flashed on the button, trying to seal the Pokemon inside. Both Goodwin and Landon watched as its struggle began to slowly weaken, which in the end, would stop altogether. The ball sealed, the heat was released: Pikachu was caught. It actually was captured. This shocked everyone who laid eyes on that very scene, even Landon himself.

“I… caught it.”

“Well shoot, that was mighty lucky of you. You didn’t even have to battle it or nothing.”

“Wee.”

Landon walked over to the now occupied Pokeball and picked it up in his hand. It still was warm, but he could feel the presence of a new companion in the palm of his hand. But he had to make sure, so the only way to find out the Pikachu’s reaction was to release it from its ball. Out comes Pikachu in the Pokeball’s trademark white light, as it twitched its ears giving a bewildered “Pi?” Now it was time for Landon to work his magic.

“See, now you see what happens when you try hurt others and laugh at their misfortunes. Things like that can happen.”

“Pikaaa.”

“Now I know your upset about Sandshrew taking your apple, but maybe it was his first. I can’t say for sure since I wasn’t there, but it would be nice of you to accept that Sandshrew is the one with the apple now. Besides, I’m pretty sure that there are plenty more apples where that came from.”

“Chuuu… Pika.”

In response, Pikachu pointed over towards another tree that was across from where they were and it bared one visible apple. However it was quite high on a branch, meaning it would be a great challenge to acquire it. Landon now knew why Pikachu and Sandshrew were so eager and willing to fight over the current apple they had and this got Landon to think.

“How about this: If I give this chocolate bar, will you forgive and forget? Maybe even possibly accept membership to my Pokemon team?”

Landon slipped out a candy bar from the side pocket in his shirt, the same type he offered Pidgey from before, and presented it to Pikachu. It suspiciously sniffed around it and reluctantly took it from his hand. Sitting on its bottom, it unwrapped the foil and sniffed it once more, this time being quite intrigued by the aroma since it faintly smelled it with the wrapper on. One bite and it instantly fell head over heels for it: “Pikaaachuuu!~” It then proceeded to happily chow down and devour it bite after tiny bite.

“So do we have a deal?”

With almost half the chocolate bar already gone and a coat of brown around its mouth, it gleefully gave Landon a thumbs up with its tiny fingers. This made Goodwin laugh as he saw how easy it was for him to make the Pikachu happy and solve the situation. Maybe he wasn’t so uptight when he’s just being himself. Goodwin began to analyze why Landon was so harsh one moment and compassionate the next. The battle with that Scyther must have really shaken him up, Goodwin thought. He now had a mission.

“Well Weedle, looks like we got ourselves another new friend.”

Landon pet Pikachu on the head as the chocolate bar was gone and the wrapper remained. It wagged its tail in happiness and gave out a sigh both from Landon’s affection and for finishing a nice treat.

“Alright, just two more. Beedrill, ya there?!”

Beedrill answered with a “Bzz!” from above and came through an opening from the top of the forest.

“Keep goin’! We’re on a roll here!”

Nodding in response, the search once again went under way. Landon grabbed Pikachu and with Weedle close behind, they made their way towards what seemed like a river. It rushed and roared out loud, but wasn’t loud to the point of hindering Landon and Goodwin’s hearing. Another Pokemon was somewhere around this area, but where exactly was it? It seemed as though they would come up empty handed this time, but something would get their attention from high above. It wasn’t Beedrill.

“Ouch, hey!”

From a tree high above, a little mischievous Pokemon was throwing nuts at the people down below. Landon was nailed in the head, which as a result caused Pikachu to laugh once again at his expense. The source was a strange looking bug Pokemon that raised its appendages high and opened its almost sideways looking mouth. Upon closer research, on its back it appeared to be mushrooms coming out of it and that was more than enough to warrant a reason for Landon to scan in with his Pokedex.

Paras: The Mushroom Pokemon - Growing out of this bug's back are mushrooms called Tochukaso. As its host grows, so do the mushrooms. It is often seen burrowing in the ground to suck tree roots.

“Wow, so this is a Paras…”

“Yup and his name is Fredric. Come on Fredric, git on down here and quit yer throwing thangs at people, you know better than that!”

Paras seemed to not listen to order as it waved its forelegs in response. This meant that out of the bunch that they were looking for this one would be the one that would cause the most problems.

“Fred’s sort of a comedian and loves to cause a whole heap of trouble and gets a real laugh out of it.”

“So it would seem, but I can get it down for you. You seem to have your hands full.”

Landon placed Pikachu on the floor and told it to stay, which it does. Landon’s agenda was to climb up the tree and grab the Paras down by force. It would be a difficult task, but as long as he remained sturdy as a rock on his ascent he’d be just fine. Grasping the trunk of the tree, he began to shimmy his way up the tree and approach the Paras.

“Be careful Landon. Fred can be a tricky one!”

Nidoran-F and Sandshrew both warned Landon with just as much concern as Goodwin, and even Pikachu began to cheer him on with a happy: “Pika pika chu chu chu, pika pika chu chu chu.” Paras was amused at Landon’s efforts and rewarded him by throwing more nuts at his head and face, all while laughing in response. But Landon’s grip was firm and he still ascended despite the debris that came his way. Landon was close and he could taste victory, but he would soon come to find that this victory was going to be more painful than sweet.

“Weedle?”

Weedle had already scaled the tree from behind and Paras didn’t suspect a thing. Not even Landon did as he saw it approach the mischievous Pokemon from the rear. With one little nudge from its round pink nose, Paras was sent over the edge of the branch, which in turn, smacked Landon square in the face causing him to lose his grip and plummet to the floor in a cloud of dirt. Weedle winched at what he had done and hoped that his trainer was alright. His answer: A thumbs up from below from Landon. Pikachu had a blast and just laughed. He had only been with Landon for about 15 minutes and he loved every minute of it.

“Boy, your Pokemon sure are a couple of characters aren’t they?”

“Guess I rub off on um’. Just one more, right?”

Landon hands a dazed Paras to Goodwin who in turn, allows it to climb on top of his head. Just one more Pokemon was left. They would follow the formula they were so successful with so far, but there was a problem:

“Looks like we’re going to have to wing it with this one. Beedrill said it only found three out of the four right?

“Well ain’t this a tight squeeze we’re in. I guess your right about us wingin’ it. Where do ya sugges’ we go from here then?

Both trainers ponder on the direction they should head from the river. It was truly a tight bind as the last Pokemon, which was Nidoran-M, could be anywhere in the forest by now. Landon decided to trust his gut and head in the direction which seemed to be most likely a nice place to either rest, hide or even eat. Landon chose to go right. So it was traveling along the river to find the final Pokemon. Both ended up thinking on how long this would take. It could take days, maybe weeks. All they knew was that it wasn’t supposed to be easy, despite the lucky breaks they’ve received with the first finds.

Nidoran-M indeed was left, but this last one would be quite the handful. Goodwin would fail to tell Landon that their last recover mission would be one that would come with scrapes and bruises. Walking around, none of them would suspect a sneak attack from a vicious pink Pokemon with a poison tip. Out from the bush it sprang straight for Landon’s leg at full speed. Lunging with horn presented, Nidoran-M was on the move and on the attack. Landon had no idea and was about to get injected with a healthy dose of poison. He turned his head, but he was too late to avoid the attack that would possibly wound him, until a little yellow hero comes to save the day again.

“Landon, look out!”

“Pika!”

Clash goes the poison points of both Nidoran-M and Weedle, as they were now locked in a combat. Landon was saved by the little bug with something to prove. He was lucky and so was Weedle, since both Pokemon were Poison types, they can’t sub-come to the ailments they can inflict. The clash would end as both Pokemon leapt back from one another and stand off.

“Yeesh, you were two seconds away from gettin’ some of that nasty poison in your system.”

“No kidding, what’s that things problem.”

“Ya’ see, Gregory has a tendency to wanna pick fights. Let’s just say he’s the tough guy of the group.”

Weedle gave Nidoran-M a mighty glare, and Nidoran-M returned the favor as both of them were ready to rumble and get at each other. Landon knew now that Weedle was inching to fight, so he couldn’t deny his wish. Landon prepared for battle, sliding his foot forward and swinging his arm back as Goodwin and the other Pokemon looked on.

“Careful not to hurt it!”

“No problem.”

Battle on: Landon extends his arm and finger and gave out the call.

“Weedle, Poison Sting!”

Weedle made a big leap and lunged head first at Nidoran who surprisingly was smart enough to jump out of the way to dodge the attack. The end result was Weedle sailing under Nidoran-M only to get jammed inside a tree. This was trouble, Weedle was stuck, which made it a sitting duck to Nidoran-M’s future attacks. As Weedle tried his best to un-stick its head from the tree, its opponent took its time to start kicking away at it over and over again. Double Kick was what it was called and Weedle was truly feeling the pain. With one final tug, Weedle unstuck itself from the tree and counter-attacked.

“Weedle quick, tie it down with a String Shot!”

As Weedle rolled into a recovery from the barrage of Double Kicks, it stood tall and firm, finally firing off a gooey, sticky film directly at Nidoran-M. The film seemed to wrap around Nidoran-M, which had no idea what it was going to do, and in the end, trapped the Pokemon by the body and legs. It was now helpless. Despite it being tied down and on the ground, there would be a possibility for it to get out, so for good measure, Landon called one final attack.

“Poison Sting one more time!”

Weedle took one final leap and it nailed Nidoran-M dead on with its stinger, which brought it some pain, but not a lot as the attack wouldn’t have that much affect on it. Nidoran-M whimpered in defeat as it lied on the floor trying to escape from its sticky binds, trying to find some strength to fight back. The fight was over, and they all knew it as Susie took the time to talk to Gregory. It seemed to tell it that they were trying to bring it home and the person who defeated you was just trying to help. Susie freed Gregory by biting the string with its teeth and led it over to Landon, where Gregory would apologize.

“It’s okay. I can be a bit of a hot head myself.”

They had them all: Susie, Max, Fredric and now Gregory. The mission was complete.

“Good job Landon, you were tons of help in findin’ and retrievin’ these Pokemon with me. You ought to congratulate yourself.”

“It was nothing, really.”

“I’m serious, tell me: What did you think about your experience today? Helpin’ me out in searchin’ for all these critters?”

“Well, besides the shock and the Paras to the head, I’d say this was… kinda fun.”

“It’s what you needed I reckon.”

“Huh?”

“I know you’re still shaken up by that Scyther a while back, but you know what? Let it be a lesson in good spirits, not one in failure. Sure you didn’t catch your favorite Pokemon of all time but look at it this way: You’re still young, you’re still starting out and findin’ a Scyther just two days into your journey? Hoo-wee, I bet a ton of people would be red with jealousy!”

“Yeah… you’re right. Here I am feeling sorry for myself again. I thought I was gonna change, I thought things were gonna be different. But old habits die hard huh?”

“It’s who ya’ are, don’t let it pin ya down.”

“You’re pretty wise Goodwin, and a good friend.”

“Aw shucks, I’m just repeatin’ what ma Pa’ says. Tain’t nothing special, right Beedrill?”

Beedrill finally comes in for a landing and agrees with its trainer with a “Bzz!” Both of them laugh as Landon learned something new and now he had found himself a wise young kid who he can call his friend. Susie, Max, Fredric, Gregory, Beedrill and Pikachu all sound off in response as they all had a moment: A moment of togetherness.

“Weeeedlllle!”

A flash of white light blinded them all from out of nowhere and the source was a triumphant Weedle. Glowing brightly, this phenomenon could only mean one thing: Evolution. Weedle was transforming into something new. It was taking the next step in developing into a more powerful Pokemon as its shape began to shift and grow. Its bulbous head and figure began to expand and harden into a shell and its tiny legs would soon disappear. As the light faded, Weedle was permanently changed: It had become a Kakuna.

Kakuna: The Cocoon Pokemon – Kakuna is the evolved form of Weedle. While in this form, Kakuna is almost incapable of movement. When in danger, it is able to harden its shell to protect itself.

“No way… You evolved.”

“Kakuna…”

“Shoot, first a Pikachu, now a Kakuna. Yeesh, you’ve been getting mighty lucky today, I reckon. Why not save some of that luck fa’ me?

Landon indeed was actually having fun. He’s had quite the adventure today. He’s had an internal struggle for the past couple of days and has had quite a few victories along with fumbles. This is all in the learning experience and Landon slowly is learning to grasp that. With the memory of Scyther still stapled in his mind, like a ghost hovering over his shoulder, he tried his best to turn that memory into something positive; something to look forward to in the future. He may not have been ready today. He may not even be ready tomorrow. All he knew was he was still a beginner, and there was no rush to grow up too fast in the World of Pokemon.

-------------------------------------

A snip of a flower in a garden, back at the cottage, someone was looking upon the flower bed of Grace Fetcher. The Mystery Girl was handed a fully bloomed flower, in which she sniffed happily. No shade hid her figure, but her eyes were still covered by the purple scooter cap. No shade meant nothing to cover her outfit: A light purple vest with a hood, over a violet no sleeve tanktop. A skirt with a vivid design of a flower on the side, wrapped with a thick white belt with a pouch and white short shorts under. Finally, long purple leg socks that reach from her knees to her ankles and inside her shoes complete with white Alice slippers.

With a tip of her hat to Grace and a finger to lips, the Mystery Girl took her leave, grabbing her Caterpie in the process which seemed to be conversing with Grace’s Butterfree. Her agenda was to find Landon, but it would seem that she doesn’t want her presence or her location to be found out. It was off into the forest with her, but to where? What is known for sure: She’ll be close and watching…

[Pkmnlover]

This is really good! Some grammar mistakes and small wording issues occasionally but you have description, great action, pokemon with real personalities and overall a unique version of an old story. I like it. Don't quit this. My only suggestion is just read your chapters aloud before you post and that will help you recognize the small errors. But overall, I can't think of anything other than that that you aren't doing really great at!

Anyway, thanks for posting, and keep it up!

[ClassicalwaterPokemon]

This is a good story.

[LinkG07]

Pokemon: New Future
Adven. 1

Chapter 5: Rematch! Emergency in Pewter!

Day 3 - Precious noise; the rain cloud had lifted and the Pokemon orchestra in the Viridian Forest had returned. Today was maybe the day, or maybe it wasn’t. Landon had learned that not everything would be easy, or would just fall in his lap. Even if he gave it his all, or even put some extra effort into it. His current level is still a beginner and he hasn’t even broken the one week marker yet. The mark was still on the tree, but the competitors were not present.

“Scyther!”

Down came the ninja like bug Pokemon as it folded its wings for a landing. Its weight gave a great thud as it crossed its blades together gracefully. Upon the uncrossing of its arms and the opening of its eyes, it gazed upon its mark. The mark it left as a meeting ground for the newbie trainer. All it had to do was wait. It had a strong feeling that Landon wouldn’t show up, but in its gut it knew that it would be wrong. With blades to its side and its head skyward, it saw the clouds floating above and closed its eyes. Almost as if it were listening to nature. It seemed calm, level head, and mature. Scyther was going to wait, but it didn’t know how long. However it would soon find that it would be shorter than it first expected.

Scyther: The Mantis Pokemon - It tears and shreds prey with its wickedly sharp scythes. With ninja-like agility and speed, it can create the illusion that there is more than one of itself. It rarely uses its wings to fly.

The “ping” of the Pokedex instantly caught Scyther’s attention. Swinging its head around, it would find that Landon was standing promptly behind it. Instantly, Scyther went into its battle stance, ready to fight once again. But this time around, someone was taking a different approach. Landon wasn’t trying to counter with his own intimidation, nor was he was trying to stand his ground; this time Landon just nonchalantly leaned his back up against the tree on the opposite side of the marked one. With his hair covering his eyes, Landon wasn’t trying to be the tough guy today.

Closing his Pokedex, he lifted his head to show that this time around, he wasn’t going to let his emotions get the best of him. His spirit was not going to be broken if he lost again either. Landon knew this was most likely a battle that he couldn’t win, but it wasn’t going to stop him from trying.

“So you came… I have to say I’m honored. Let’s get started.”

Landon was prepared, and it was all thanks to the Fetcher family. In the day prior, Landon had done some additional preparations from the evening into the night. The Fetchers were more than happy to allow him to stay for the night seeing as how they were in a debt of gratitude to him. Before Landon and Goodwin were to get down to some Pokemon business, a good meal was in order for celebration.

“Hoo-wee, this is by far the greatest moment in ma’ day: Ma’s home cookin’!”

“Well I’m glad you love it so much son. How’s your Landon?”

“This is amazing. So much flavor!”

“Yeah, Grace is one fine cook. It’s one of the reasons why I married her.”

“Kurt, now hush up, you’re gettin’ me all red in the face.”

With laughs all around, the supper was a grand occasion as the Pokemon were even digging in as well. Some specially made pellets were passed around and shared amongst the Pokemon and they all seemed to really enjoy it. All except for Pikachu, who seemed to have preferred Landon’s chocolate over the Pokemon food, and Kakuna, who didn’t need to eat seeing as how it was getting all of its nutrition from the inside.

“Landon your Pokemon are just fine and I’ve done all I could to have them on the road to the fastest recovery possible.”

“Thank you sir. “

“You’re going back to fight that Scyther, aren’t you?”

Landon stopped his spoon before it could reach his mouth as he reacted accordingly; he couldn’t answer. Lowering his spoon back towards the hot stew his expression gave Kurt his answer.

“What? Landon you’re not thinkin’ of fightin’ that thing again are ya? That’s plum crazy!”

“I know… but I just can’t turn back now. It’s expecting me.”

“What do ya mean?”

“It wants a rematch.”

“Well then Landon, whatever you decide, we won’t stop ya.”

“But Pa-!”

“No buts Goodwin, its Landon’s decision.”

“This time I’m ready… Even if I lose again, I’m taking what I’ve learned today with me.”

Bellies were full and Pokemon were satisfied as dinner time was over, but talks of Pokemon would commence even further. With Grace working the kitchen with Butterfree, the men sat around the table conversing.

“So Landon, what’s it like in the Johto region? Must be some mighty different Pokemon there I reckon.”

“Well, you could say that. There are plenty of Pokemon from this region there as well.”

“So, Goodwin has told me that you’re from Goldenrod City. Isn’t that the home of that famous radio station?”

“Yup, it’s broadcasted by Mary. I’ve met her a few times when I was young. My Father makes deliveries to all kinds of places and used to take me along while I did my personal studies. When you travel like my dad, you tend to run into all kinds of people.”

“Sounds like your Pa’ is man of adventure.”

“I guess, my mom used to tell me that he was an awesome Pokemon trainer and was one of the best in the region.”

“What does your Ma’ do?”

“She’s a scientist. She’s always been one to tinker with things and experiment. I remember seeing her run her studies all the time. It almost seemed scary how dedicated and excited she was to research things. Right now she’s trying to research stones that make Pokemon evolve.”

“Wow, your folks must be real busy.”

“Yeah, they are. Whenever I was not staying with either of them, I would be back at home being taken care of by my big sister. “

“Does she do anything fancy?”

“Now now Goodwin.”

“No no, its fine. She’s actually the black sheep of our family.”

“Black sheep?”

“Yeah, she kind of… doesn’t like Pokemon very much.”

Both Goodwin and Kurt look at each other in confusion when Landon said those words. A person who didn’t like Pokemon, they both thought?

“I know it sounds strange, but that’s how she is. It’s not that she’s afraid of them or anything, it’s just that she has no interest in them. She’d rather look at soap operas and write on her laptop.”

“Well she has to wanna do somethin’.”

“Well, if I were to guess, then I’d say she wants to be a screenplay writer. Work on TV shows, plays and movies.”

“Well that’s pretty nice, you still have quite the interesting family there Landon.”

“I wanna hear more! You sure have an interestin’ life.”

“Don’t you boys have something to do? Ya’ll better get crackin’ before your curfew Goodwin.”

“Oh shoot, well then I guess we better get started on that trainin’ I promised ya.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll tell ya some other time.”

“It’s a deal! Now put yer game face on cause we’re about to do some rumblin’!”

“You’re on!”

Landon’s memory would soon shift from day to night as the house would be cleaned and he would see himself talking with his own Pokemon. Charmander and Pidgey were bandaged around their chest and torso, but they were in good spirits it would seem. Goodwin was preparing to go to bed, Kurt was working outside to check if everything was locked, and Grace along with her Butterfree would be dusting things down.

“So how are you two feeling?”

Both Charmander and Pidgey would raise their paws and wings in happiness, meaning they felt alright. However they would need more time to recover. A good night’s rest would help them a lot and it was quickly becoming time to hit the hay for everyone. Landon thought it would be a good idea to introduce everyone before he went to bed himself, along with another task.

“I don’t think you’ve all been properly introduced. Spot, Pidgey; I’d like you to meet Kakuna and Pikachu.”

Charmander and Pidgey made their way over to their new teammates and happily greeted them, although with some complications on the way; Pikachu was being a bit shy. As Kakuna was having no trouble talking with Hotspot and Pidgey, Pikachu was shivering in the same spot he was in before Landon introduced them all. It was smaller than a normal Pikachu, so maybe it felt a bit intimidated. Either that or it was bad with intimacy. Landon took the time to give Pikachu an extra push in the general direction of the group so that it could at least try.

“Don’t be shy, go on. They’re friendly.”

Pikachu looked at Landon with an unassured look in his eyes, but it took baby steps into following his wishes. It started with trying to talk to Pidgey, which in return talked to it. Pikachu was close to stepping back as it talked to the bird, but something made it come back. It was intrigued now, but that intrigued look would soon become joy as Pidgey said something with a raised wing. They both found a common ground. This made Landon sigh in relief that all of them could get along now, or at least start to. If Landon were to take a shot in the dark at what got Pikachu interested in talking with Pidgey, he would say it would have something to do with his chocolate, which made him laugh a bit.

“I’ve been thinking, I’ve given Spot a name, but I forgot that I haven’t given you all names. That isn’t really fair I’d say, so from this point on, you’ll be known as such:”

As Landon lined his Pokemon up one by one, and set Kakuna in a position where it could be presentable, he began his assorted nickname session by pointing to each of them one by one.

“Hotspot.”

“Char!”

“Mmm… Razorwing.”

“Coo coo!”

“Buzz.”

“Kakuna.”

“Annnnd… Shock.”

“Pi Pika.”

“What do you guys think?”

The Pokemon gladly gave Landon an answer as all of them decide to pile on top of him, showing him affection. This was a very happy moment for Landon as all of them laughed in enjoyment. A boy and his Pokemon; there was nothing better in his mind. Even Kakuna wanted to get in on the affection, as it hopped over to dog pile on Landon as well. However, this was not be very favorable as the other Pokemon dodged out of the way, allowing for Kakuna to have him all to himself.

“Wait Kakuna, no!”

Kakuna landed directly on Landon’s chest which knocked the wind out of him. Kakuna would’ve had more time to show its painful affection, but all of them soon would find that their time was up. Goodwin’s mother would catch Landon still lingering in the main room as she was finishing up with her dusting.

“Landon, ya’ll better get to bed now, it’s gettin’ mighty late.”

“Alright Mrs. Fetcher.”

“Yeah, Landon, you’ll be bunkin’ with me tonight.”

Goodwin with his mouth full of toothpaste would lead Landon to his room, with his Pokemon loyally following close behind.

It was a very fond memory that Landon would hold onto for quite a long time, but that was the past. His future was right in front of him. Scyther still held the same fire in its eyes from their last encounter and was ready to do some more damage. The rematch was about to begin as Landon would take an empty Pokeball from his pocket and extend it out in declaration.

“You see this? This is going to be your new home when this match is over, so take a good look at it. Get acquainted with it. You’ll be inside it soon enough.”

Scyther was not amused as it scoffed at him. Obviously it wanted to fight rather than talk with its scythes still raised high. Landon didn’t want to keep a Pokemon of this caliber waiting, so he quickly drew his arm back, replacing the empty Pokeball with an occupied one. The contents of that Pokeball were a mystery, and it obviously was not Charmander due to it not bearing the insignia of flame. Wasting no time at all Landon would perform his signature throw: Coin flipping the Pokeball by the button expanding it, swiping it out of the air on its descent, swinging back, taking a leap forward and finally hurling the ball into the battleground.

“Razorwing, take flight!”

Mid-flight the Pokeball burst open, granting Pidgey some extra momentum in its release. Out it flew with its wings spread far, but with its bandages still wrapped around its mid section. This meaning that Pidgey was still not fully recovered from its past experience despite having a good nights rest. This time they were both ready and history would not repeat itself. Pidgey’s aerial collision course was set and it was heading straight for the battle ready Scyther. With its right scythe raised, it made its attack, swiping horizontally when the dart like Pidgey was in range. However, this attack would fail as Pidgey gave an extra few flaps to its attack, turning its into a dodge instead.

“Ray, swing around and give a Gust Attack!”

Around the tree it went and into the thick wall of leaves it would flap its wings with incredible strength. With on clap the leaves would part and a swirling twister would head straight for the Scyther. Scyther wouldn’t be a high level Pokemon if an attack such as that actually hit him, which is why it used its lightning fast speed to dodge out of the way, disappearing from sight instantly. As expected, it appeared soon after on the attack. Pidgey was still hovering as Scyther swung its blade back, ready to mince the tiny bird in one swipe. But Landon had other plans; much different plans which required him to call back Pidgey into its Pokeball. As the red energy sucked the bird back into its spherical residence, Scyther's attack would miss.

The mantis came down for a landing and was not amused as it was ready to take out Landon’s Pokemon. It barked at him and clanked its scythes in irritation, but Landon wasn’t fazed. While Scyther chose the hot headed root, Landon was cool and calm.

“Cool your jets, you’ll get a fight.”

Landon reached for his second Pokemon to call upon and hurled the ball in his unique fashion once again. The light was released and out popped the cocoon Pokemon that was Kakuna.

“Buzz, time to sting!”

“Kakuna.”

Kakuna was the next Pokemon to battle and it stood on its rear end, balancing to the best of its ability. Scyther didn’t hesitate at all to make an attack as it clanked its blades one last time and zoomed in for a killer Slash Attack. It was moving too fast for them to get out of the way, but Kakuna didn’t need to as Landon called out a brand new technique exclusive to this newly evolved Pokemon.

“Quick, Harden!”

A shining glint washed over the shell of Kakuna, which in turn gave it a glossy outlook. Its shell had been tightened and fortified for the oncoming attack which became present when Scyther’s Slash gave off a loud “clank!” Kakuna was safe for now, but the attack was far from over. Scyther found its attack to not do a thing, but that didn’t stop it from unleashing a barrage of swipes to cut through this tough new armor it was encountering.

“Harden again!”

The glint wiped over Kakuna once more, which doubled its defenses. The gloss from the armor was brighter and it gave Kakuna an extra kick in its protection as Scyther chopped away over and over, not penetrating at all. However, chips and chinks were being made as Kakuna pushed forward to keep itself from tipping over or being blasted back by the force of the Scyther’s onslaught. This couldn’t be kept up forever and something had to give, which more likely would be Landon’s Kakuna. Scyther was close, so this was the perfect opportunity to strike!

“Buzz, blast it away with Poison Sting!”

Kakuna showed no visible area where a stinger would be, but it wouldn’t have to seeing how this former lunging strike would turn into a spray of purple needles. Out of the small opening like crease in Kakuna’s face it attacked and almost overwhelmed Scyther as it was literally bombarded. To defend itself from the attack, Scyther shielded its face and upper body with its blades, causing the flying stingers to bounce off and do less damage. The spray was strong, but Scyther was stronger as it stopped the attack cold with a thrust of its arms and a shout of its voice. Poison Sting ended.
Scyther was now free to unleash its fury once again, but this pause was also an opportunity for Landon to make another move. And that move would leave Scyther feeling a bit sticky.

“String Shot!”

Out of its mouth it sprayed the gooey film directly at Scyther right in its face. As the string splashed Scyther blinding it, Kakuna worked its way downward onto its upper body where it would finish. Scyther was covered in the film and it was having a lot of trouble trying to get it off. With no opposable thumbs, or hands for that matter, getting gunk off of your face and chest would prove to be quite the challenge. Kakuna’s job was done.

“Buzz, Retreat!

With Kakuna’s Pokeball out, Landon called it back. The next step was complete and now it was time to unleash Landon’s newest member.

“Shock, light it up!

As the ball shot forth, out sprang the tiny mouse with some small charges of electricity coming with it. This was Pikachu’s first battle and Landon had high expectations. From his past studies, Landon knew that a flying type was weak against an electric type. Giving Scyther a few shocks while it was immobilized and blinded would surely speed along its capture. However, he would encounter a road block with this plan: Pikachu took one look at Scyther and was terrified.

It was scared of Scyther as it looked up at how massive it was compared to itself. It watched it thrash around and struggle in its attempt to try and remove Kakuna’s String Shot film and shook in terror. Its eyes grew glassy and it whimpered with each passing moment as it saw Scyther remove more and more of the gunk on itself, until, it was free. Scyther gave out a massive shout at Pikachu and that was it, Pikachu gave out a terrified scream and the young mouse covered its head with sweat and tears all over its face. Scyther was confused, but Landon was concerned. It was too soon, and this made Landon realize that his Pikachu was only a child.

“Shock, come back, you don’t have to fight.”

"Pika?”

Pikachu looked up and turned its head to its master, but Landon’s approach was flawed. Scyther was still itching to fight and Pikachu was literally a sitting duck right in front of it. Giving out a bone chilling cry of attack, Scyther showed no mercy and swung at Pikachu with its full force. An attack of that scale would instantly incapacitate Landon’s Pikachu and wound it just like Charmander and Pidgey. He had to call it back.

“Shock, Retreat!”

Landon instantly flung out Pikachu’s residential Pokeball and shot the retracting laser that draws it in. However, in all of the commotion Pikachu gave out another scream and leapt at Scyther’s right hind leg, clasping it with all of its strength. This made both its attack and Landon’s call-back miss in one shot. Both Scyther and Landon gave shocked expression as Scyther now had a tiny passenger on its leg. Scyther was not pleased at all from Pikachu hitching a ride and flung its leg trying to remove it, but Pikachu held on tight and was absolutely frightened by the experience. Stuck like glue, Scyther had to chop it off if it wasn’t going to get anywhere with removing it.

Landon couldn’t let that happen, so if he couldn’t call it back, maybe he could coax it into doing an attack out of desperation. He had to give it a shot or else Pikachu was going to be hit and hit hard.

“Shock, Thunder Wave, you can do it!”

Pikachu could hear the voice of its master, but it could hear the voice of the attacking Scyther even louder. Without even thinking, Pikachu instinctively followed Landon’s orders and gave him what he wished for. After a quick series of blue sparks from its cheeks, Pikachu unleashed a bolt of blue energy from its body that covered and shocked Scyther from head to toe. Scyther screamed out in pain as its attack was stopped in its tracks. As electrical discharges coursed through Scyther's body, it was forced to try and keep its balance with one of its blades. The residual damage from an attack such as Thunder Wave leaves its victim with the ailment: Paralysis and this slows down its target exponentially.

As Scyther tried to move, Pikachu found that it was free to run away and it did in post haste. Pikachu called out to Landon over and over as it raced to meet him and leaped into his arms. As Landon held his frightened companion, he comforted it and petted it on the head as it cried on his shoulder.

“It’s okay Shock, it’s okay. You don’t have to fight anymore. It’s over.”

“Pika…”

Landon grabbed Pikachu’s Pokeball once more and returned it back inside. You learn something new every day, Landon thought, but his task was not over. One Pokemon remained in his arsenal, and it was his key to capturing this bug. All that was left, was the ball engraved with the symbol of flame.

“Hotspot, Burn!”

From the glorious light, sprang forth the battle torn Charmander ready for action. With his chest bandaged up, it checked if it was secure, then bared its claws for battle. Scyther may have been paralyzed, but it still wasn’t done, not by a long shot. It stood to its full height and bared arms just like Charmander, ready for the final round. This time things would be different. It could be seen as though, that Landon now had a crutch, but with Charmander still injured, that may not have been the case. Both Pokemon stare each other down as round two of Charmander vs. Scyther began.

“Ember Attack!”

Charmander sucked in as much air as it could, gathering up the flames in its gut and unleashed them in a brilliant flurry. Scyther drew its blades up in defense and tried to quickly move out of the way, but the paralysis was taking its toll. Its escape was denied as well as the action of defending itself. The flames hit head on as he was pummeled by the searing cinders, feeling the pain of it all as it was another one of its weaknesses. This was a good start as they could capitalize soon after.

“Go in for a Scratch Attack!”

With that order, Charmander made a mad dash towards the bruised Scyther and leapt in with one claw held high. Scyther wanted to show that it was no push over. Quickly, but temporarily shaking off the paralysis, Scyther decided to once again meet Charmander’s Scratch, with its Slash. In a brilliant flash of bone and metal, both Pokemon clashed for a second time. This time Charmander wanted things to go its way as it was capable of giving that extra push that is needed in order to win the struggle. Scyther’s blade was successfully being repelled, but it would not last long as Charmander’s past wound would hinder it. The pain shot from its chest all the way to its spine and this caused it to release a lot of force on its end. Scyther’s struggles would be rewarded as it gave Charmander a mighty fling to the ground. While its paralysis was in check, it used its ninja like speed to disappear than reappear right in front of the grounded lizard.

“Spot look out!”

Slash, went Scyther’s blade across the chest of Charmander once again, but this time on the opposing end of the wound. With its clean swipe to its opponent, the bandages that covered its healing bruises would be ripped, exposing it to the air. Now it was time for another attack as Charmander suffered from the one prior. As it rose its scythe up for what could possibly be the finishing blow, lady luck would shine brightly over Landon once again as its paralysis would stop it in its tracks. This was the moment Landon was waiting for, the time to execute his plan!

“Now Spot, do it now!!”

Charmander’s injury was painful, but it was nothing it couldn’t muscle through. As it made a fist in order to bear the pain that struck from its stomach to its shoulder, it used its tail to give itself a boost into the air by slamming it on the ground. Leaving its feet and sailing through the air, it reached its destination: Scyther’s face, clamping onto it with its small paws and legs. This caught Scyther completely off guard as it was face to face, and eye to eye with Charmander, feeling a squeeze on both sides of its face.

“Growl!”

And it was then, when things would completely go Landon’s way as Charmander opened its mouth wide and gave a mighty growl right in the face of Scyther. The range was so short, the wings on Scyther’s back would unwillingly spread and fly back. The attack came to a close and Charmander fell to the floor, leaving behind a completely shocked Scyther. Its eyes were dilated, its mouth gaped open, it was completely immobile despite even being paralyzed.

“Now! Fly, Pokeball!!”

Landon instantly expanded an empty Pokeball from his pocket and hurled it with all of his might. This was the perfect moment for its capture and Landon knew it. The Pokeball impacted with the Scyther’s chest, opened and drew it inside all in an instant. Now, it was all down to luck. The Pokeball danced and jittered all across the floor as it was trying to seal in the mantis Pokemon; more so than the last Pokemon he’s tried to capture. Scyther still had some fight left in it as it tried with great strength to free itself from the trap Landon had thrown at it. The button began to beep faster and the shaking became more violent; this was bad news. Landon thought his plan would work but it all came crashing down as the Pokeball burst open, and out came Scyther. The catch was not successful.

“Oh no! No way!”

“Char Char??”

Scyther was free and the Pokeball that was used was broken, such is the fate of all unsuccessful Pokeballs. Now free, Scyther tried to work through its paralysis which still caused it problems. Landon was so close, he could literally taste that capture and he thought out that plan so well. Landon learned not to dwell on things that didn’t go his way, and move on, and so he did. Landon couldn’t give up now after he witnessed the catch that almost was. He had to try one more time. Just one more throw and he could maybe catch it. Taking out another empty ball, Landon was ready. He had no intentions on taking things this far, but Scyther had forced his hand.

“Can you get up Spot?”

Charmander was still down, as it tried to get to its feet after falling from the Scyther’s face. But the second slash it had received made it very hard for it to even stand. Still young and still injured, Charmander was almost down and out. All Scyther needed to do was give one last attack. Scyther gave Landon a glare as it stood off against the struggling Charmander, ready to strike again. But something wasn’t right: Scyther should’ve attacked by now, but it didn’t and that was when Landon saw it. Scyther lowered its blades. Landon didn’t understand it, but it was another opportunity and opportunity meant another Pokeball was going to go flying.

“Fly Pokeball!!”

The second Pokeball hits its mark and it absorbed Scyther inside. The waiting game had commenced once again and the struggling was still just as fierce as the last. Landon gritted his teeth and he balled his fist, hoping that this would be the one. This would be the catch, he could feel it. The struggling went on for what seemed like hours as he was almost hypnotized by its shakes. Even Charmander looked on in wonder, hoping that it would be caught. The shakes became less harsh, the Pokeballs movements began to become less noticeable, and the blinking light on the button began to become less and less frequent.

Did his ears deceive him? Did he hear that oh so sweet sound of the ball sealing? Was his eyes playing trick on him? Was he going crazy? No… The ball had sealed and the heat was released. Scyther was captured. Scyther was captured. Scyther was captured! Fireworks went off in Landon’s mind and he wanted to dance and shout into the heavens, but his legs, his arms and even his face wouldn’t move. After a few moments of disbelief Landon’s body finally caught up with his mind and he acted accordingly to the moment.

“I caught it… I caught it, I caught it, I caught, I caught!! Yeeeesss!!”

Landon leapt into the air and gave a victorious punch as he actually had captured a Scyther, a real life Scyther. He could hardly breathe and he could hardly stand as he fell onto his bottom on his landing. He ran his hand through his hair and felt completely exhausted from the entire experience, but not as exhausted as Charmander who was still lying on the floor. Scrambling to his feet, he made his way to his grounded lizard and scooped him up in his hands.

“I did Spot. I did it.”

“Char Char!”

“I couldn’ve done it without you buddy. You rock.”

Trainer and Pokemon shared another intimate moment as Landon nudged heads with his starting companion. Charmander may have been in pain, but it felt on top of the world that it could make its master this happy. With Charmander in arm, Landon walked over to his prize: A captured Scyther. It was truly a dream come true for him, he had to check it out. The ball was now in the palm of his hand and he could hardly hold back his excitement as he held it. He thought about the possibility of him not catching it and it getting away again. He would’ve felt bad, but he would’ve just moved on as he learned from his time with Goodwin and Kurt.

All that was left to do now was open it back up and get Scyther on his side. It was pretty obvious that a Pokemon was not going to be instantly loyal to a trainer once it was captured. A trust and a bond had to be made between the two, and that was a varying process. Landon was lucky enough to have some good natured Pokemon already on his side, but for others, it could be a very harsh experience if the Pokemon doesn’t cooperate. Sometimes, the Pokemon would never cooperate and things would be complicated for both in their future. There was only one way to find out, and that was to press the button, and release his new teammate.

Landon hesitates. Not because of the suspense in having the Scyther, but something was coming from behind. He listened in and tried to figure out specifically what it was. It seemed like an engine of some kind and it grew louder with each passing second. An engine in the forest? That’s odd seeing as how there shouldn’t be any vehicles in a place li-

“Gaah!!”

Landon was blinded sided by an incredibly fasting moving object and he unwilling became its passenger. With his legs kicking in the air, Landon seemed to have been caught by a sidecar of some kind. Its driver didn’t notice as Landon struggled to get upright and right side up, but after a few more minutes of kicking, she finally turned her head.

“What in the world?!”

It took him some time, but with a little help Landon was able to get into the proper sitting position; Charmander’s tail flame scorched him a bit in the chest, causing him to flip over yelping out in pain. He even had to put a small flame out on the front of his shirt. After a frantic moment of fire extinguishing, Landon would come eye to eye with the green haired official. At least, she looked official from her hat and outfit.

“Hey what’s the big deal running me over like that? I could’ve been seriously hurt!”

“I dunno where you came from but you’re jeopardizing the duty of a police officer for being here and even sneaking up on me like that!”

“Police officer?! Sorry to have bother you ma’am, carry on!”

“Char!”

Both Landon and Charmander salute the female officer who seemed to be in a hurry of some kind. What they were currently “hitching a ride” on was a motorcycle and the officer seemed to be in quite the rush.

“You gotta get out or else I-“

“Look out!!”

Landon pointed and shouted as she was not looking where she was going and they all were on a collision course into a tree! All of them scream out as the officer tried her best to put the brakes on the vehicle causing it to skid into a dirt clouded stop. The collision was averted, but just barely as the officer’s vehicle was only a few inches away from touching the sturdy trunk.

“That was a close one.”

“What in the world do you think you’re doing kid?! You could’ve gotten me killed!”

“Me?! You’re the one who ran me over with your motorcycle, I could’ve been killed!

“Harassing a police officer is in direct violation of the code book and gives me the right to place you under arrest!”

“But I didn’t do anything!”

“Charmander!”

Before anymore arguing could go down, there was a beeping sound coming from the officer’s cycle. From her expression, it was mandatory so she quickly snatched the walky talky from its holster to answer the call.

“Officer 037, Officer 037 do you copy?”

“Uh, yes, this is Officer Jenny, Number 037, I copy you.”

“You’re fifteen minutes over the rendezvous time Officer 037, report to Pewter City immediately.”

“Y-Yes sir, right away sir!”

While Officer Jenny’s radio conversation was going on, Landon searched his pocket and searched under Charmander to find that his Pokeball containing Scyther was missing! He began to panic as he couldn’t locate it, until he dug further inside the sidecar on the floor to finally find it. He was lucky that he didn’t lose it or that would’ve completely devastated him. He may not have lost the Scyther, but it would seem that he found a nice pile of trouble.

“This is all your fault! Because of you popping out from who-knows-where, I’m gonna be late from my investigation!”

“Me?! Are you sure it wasn’t something else? I’m pretty sure that he said you were fifteen minutes late. I’ve only been around you for two.”

“Eh- J-Just get out, get out, you’re holding me up even longer with your childish bantering!”

“No. You were the one who hit me, so you started this whole mess. He said that you needed to report to Pewter City? Well that’s where I need to go, so I’m not getting out till you take me there.”

“You think this is a negotiation?!”

“No, but if you don’t go now then you’re gonna be even more late and you’re gonna be in even deeper trouble, so I suggest you get a move on.”

“Oooh! This isn’t over kid! You’re in big trouble once we get there!”

Kick starting the bike, Officer Jenny turned it around and quickly sped to the north, which was the direction of Pewter City. At the rate they were going, they would maybe reach the city in about fifteen more minutes. Landon watched as the trees quickly sped past him and remembered his experience inside. With Charmander close by, Landon was sure to keep his wise and very useful learning experience in the Viridian Forest.

-------------------------------

Pewter City was just over the horizon. Jenny drove at a blinding speed in order to make up for her lost time. As they sped through the city, Landon looked passed the determined officer and saw a building that looked different from the others. Its exterior was more dynamic than any building he’s seen so far. However his sightseeing would be cut short as Officer Jenny was ready to make another quick stop, a very quick stop.

“Hold on kid, we’re here!”

“Wait wha-?”

Before Landon could respond, Jenny once again made a daredevil like slide at what looked like a larger building than even the one Landon saw in the middle of town. With the building looking larger, because Landon would have a one way ticket from the outside to the inside, as he would literally be sent flying up the stairs and through the automatic doors. Sailing through the air, Landon found himself being acquainted to the front desk as he smacked face first into it.

“I told you to hold on!”

The woman who was located behind the front desk of the building would immediately take notice and try to help Landon out.

“Oh my gosh, are you alright?!”

“This is why they invented seatbelts… uwwhh…”

As Landon was being helped up, the employee of the building would notice Officer Jenny making her way towards her. With a mandatory salute, Officer Jenny was finally present and accounted for.

“Officer Jenny of The Viridian City Police Department reporting for duty!”

“Oh thank goodness you’re here, the rest of the investigators are upstairs.”

“Thank you ma’am.”

“Um, but what about this boy?”

“You keep him!”

Officer Jenny quickly made her way up the stairs to the left and took no time to hesitate. She was very late and she couldn’t afford to waste anymore time. Meanwhile, Landon was left behind with the freckled front desk worker. She took the time to wipe his face with a cloth as she checked to see if he had any more injuries.

“Here, lemme help you.”

“Uh, thanks. Geez, what was that ladies problem anyways? Acting like I was just a bag of luggage.”

“Well I guess she needed to get to the investigation as soon as possible, I’m sure she meant no harm.”

“Yeah right.”

“Char mander!”

“As a matter of fact, I’m not done with that police woman! I’m gonna give her a piece of my mind!”

“No wait come back, you can’t go up there!”

Landon quickly recalled Charmander back into his ball and raced up the stairs to do some more arguing with the “rude” police officer, as he thought that she needed to give him an apology for running him over. Moreover she then blamed him for her own problems. In his mind, he had a legitimate gripe, but in reality, he was dealing with the authorities, meaning he could get in serious trouble. Racing up the stairs Landon didn’t have any of the consequences in mind, only the thought of getting his justice.

“It’s got to be around here somewhere!”

“Keep searching men, they couldn’t have taken all of the fossils.”

Scientists and Policemen alike were all on hands and knees searching the entire upper room for what would be a fossil. If a fossil was what they were seeking, then this building would either have to be a research facility, or a museum. Along the side of the search for missing fossils, gloves and masks were used to search for evidence as this was obviously a crime scene. Many of the scientists were in a panic as they were failing to find anything in their search, but one specifically was trying to dig up information with the authorities. Quite a young looking man with pale green tinted hair and a tiny bit of stumble on his chin.

“So what’s the damage officer? Give it to me straight.”

“Well it appears that seventy percent of your fossils are missing from their cases with obvious signs of a break in with glass scattered everywhere. We’ve located a few of the missing fossils that were not stolen, but we’re still short one.”

“I see. This is quite the bind our museum’s in. We’ve spent literally decades uncovering those fossils and they’ve been a part of our exhibits for longer than even I’ve been employed here… Do everything in your power to get them back, please.”

“We’ll do our very best sir.”

The officer who escorted Landon was busy searching for evidence in the far corner as another officer was right beside her. It was most likely to keep tabs on her for her tardiness.

“There you are!”

Landon was finally on the scene and he instantly pointed out the female Officer he had encountered. On Landon’s outburst, the entire scene was halted. Confusion all around, they had no idea who this kid was or why he was even in there in the first place. Landon did not care or even notice the stares one bit as he just made his way over to Officer Jenny with his finger still pointed out at her.

“I want an apology for your behavior in Viridian Forest!”

“Oh-no, not you again! You’re interrupting our investigation so get lost kid!”

“Not until you apologize for running me over in Viridian Forest! I could’ve been killed!”

“Officer 037, who is this child?

“Feh, he’s just some kid I ran into in Viridian Forest while I was making my way over here.”

“He wouldn’t be the reason why you were late now would he?”

“Well…”

Landon indeed wasn’t the reason for her tardiness as it was evident even back then. She scratched her head and smiled nervously as the real reason played inside her head: And that would be her falling asleep on the job and receiving the transmission for this investigation later than reported. Landon had a feeling that something such as her falling asleep would be the real reason why she was late, which is why he called her out on it.

“Would you excuse us for a bit? I need to take this young man away from the crime scene.”

Officer Jenny took Landon by the hand and tugged him to the outside of the room. Inside the hall and staircase, Officer Jenny tried to finally set things straight with Landon.

“Listen you, you better not ruin this for more or so help me I’ll have you tried as an adult!”

“What’s with the hostility? You’re the one who messed up. You probably were late because of something silly like falling asleep at your desk.”

“Eeeh! Shhh!”

“I knew it!”

“Shhhh! Okay, I’m sorry for running you over in the forest, I didn’t see you, okay?? Now pipe down, I don’t want to get in any more trouble than I already am.”

“I dunno, that didn’t seem very believable.”

“Please, I’m begging you, one more slip up and they’ll have me doing paper work for months! You gotta throw me a bone here.”

“Alright.”

“Alright? That easy?”

“Sure, you want me to lie for you right? I can do that.”

“Thank you. I swear I repay you for this!”

With that verbal collision being averted, Officer Jenny quickly took Landon by the hand and dragged him back inside the investigated room. Landon was ready to help this officer out if it meant for her to keep her job, but what he didn’t know was that he could still be in big trouble for harassing a police officer, as well as interrupting a crime scene.

“Well officer, what’s the situation with the child?”

“Well sir, you see this boy was just about to tell you what really happened. Go on.”

“Well you see, she hit me with her motorcycle in Viridian Forest, because she wasn’t looking where she was going. Plus the reason why she was late in the first place was cause she fell asleep on the job.”

“What?! You double crossing little-!”

“Officer 037, your actions have been less than satisfactory as of late, I’m afraid I’m gonna have discharge you.”

“No please, give me another chance!”

“Hold on, hold on, I wasn’t finished. I was gonna ask that if there would be any way to let Officer Jenny here off with a warning instead?”

“Unfortunately, her actions extend further than today’s slip up, so it is my duty as her superior officer to punish her accordingly.”

“Well then, why don’t I help you guys out then? Since I’m here and I interrupted the investigation of official police, I’m now considered a suspect, correct?”

“That is correct young man.”

“Well then, if it’s a fossil you’re looking for, then I’ll be the one to find it!”

“What are you saying?! If you get too far into this you could be thrown in jail for giving false information, not only that but you’ll be given a fine for interfering with police matters! Let me take the fall, it’s my fault anyways, so I’ll take my punishment…”

“Too late to go back now, my offer stands. Will you accept it?”

“Negotiations with official police over criminal matters are prohibited. I’m afraid I cannot comply with your offer.”

“I say let the boy try.”

“Professor Newgate, I-“

“This boy is trying to assist in police matters. That may be not in regulations, but I say we need all the help we can get. Besides, he looks pretty reliable.”

“… He has 2 hours. If he does not find the fossil before that limit, then I will have no choice but to place him under arrest.”

“Carry on.”

The head police officer saluted Professor Newgate, the young scientist who was at the frontlines of the investigation, and decided that it was time to gather their things and head to a new location in town. This investigation was far from over and now Landon was right in the middle of it. With a stipulation no less around his neck like a noose. Officer Jenny couldn’t believe the bullet that Landon took for her and was both ridden with guilt and confused as to why he did it.

“What have you done? Now we’re both in hot water, do you know what that means??”

“It means I gotta work fast to save both our skins. Even though you ran me over, I’m doing you a favor. I suggest you take that opportunity and run with it.”

“You didn’t have to…”

“I did anyway. Like I said: No going back now.”

“Landon Garrison, it’s been a long time hasn’t it?”

It would appear that Professor Newgate could associate himself with the young Landon. However Landon didn’t know who he was, even when he looked him directly in the face.”

“Hey, thanks for backing me up there. I pretty much thought I was gonna be locked up for sure. By the way, do I know you?”

“I would say so, or better yet, I know you mother; Susan.”

“Wait a minute, mom did mention having an old college buddy who worked as a fossil researcher. You wouldn’t happen to be Todd, would you?”

“Professor Todd J. Newgate, at your service.”

Professor Newgate gave a bow to Landon and took the time to shake his hand after. That was the reason why he had aided Landon. Luck was on Landon’s side and it has been for quite some time now. It was nice to meet an old acquaintance, but Landon had much more important matters to attend to.

“Well, I would stay and catch up, but I’ve got a fossil to locate.”

“Do you have any idea of where it could be?”

“No clue, but I guess it all depends on where the thieves ran off to.”

“Mt. Moon! It’s just east of here and it would only be logical seeing as it’s the only way out on foot or vehicle without heading back through Viridian Forest. We know for a fact that they didn’t go there seeing as how you and I drove straight through it.”

“Then they must’ve dropped the fossil somewhere in that area.”

“Most likely, it’s a start nonetheless.”

“Right, I’m heading out, maybe I can do this all and still get my Gym battle in right after.”

“Good luck to you Landon, I didn’t say you were reliable for nothing, I really meant it.”

“Gotcha.”

As Landon raced down the stairs, Officer Jenny was lost for a moment. She didn’t know what to do in that situation despite giving a logical location. So in the end, she just went with her gut and decided to follow Landon in his search.

“Eh, wait for me, I’m coming too!”

Professor Newgate was left and so were his scientists who were in the farthest corner of the room still on their search for the missing fossil. This mission was a group effort and now everyone had to go the extra mile. Or at least the Professor felt he needed to, seeing what was at stake. His objective now, was to leave the finding to Landon from there on out. He just prayed his trust wasn’t put into false hope.

“Okay people, change of plans. We’ll be cleaning up here while the fossil search will be in better hands. Let’s go people!”

-----------------------------------------

“Bubblegum! Bubblegum! Oh, where are you?”

Just outside of Pewter City, the Mystery Girl was calling out for someone. It would seem that she had lost a companion as she held the empty Pokeball in her hand and searched high and low. With her hat still draped over her eyes she was on hands and knees trying to find this missing Pokemon, only to come up with nothing.

“Oh, please don’t be causing any trouble again… Bubblegum! Where are you?!”