Chapter 481: Route 210 Encounters! (1)
~Third POV~
[Sinnoh Region, Next Day, Route 210]
The cool morning air of Sinnoh bit at their cheeks, carrying the faint scent of pine and rich earth. Solaceon Town, a cluster of quaint homes and the lingering aroma of freshly baked poffins, was now behind them. Ahead, Route 210 stretched, a winding path hemmed by towering trees and thick undergrowth, promising the rustic beauty of the region.
Azure strode with an easy confidence that belied his true age. His jacket, a practical garment designed for utility, concealed a tiny, slumbering Pichu (Mew). His partner Pikachu, a familiar comfort, rode on his shoulder, ears twitching, while a fluffy Eevee, an almost constant shadow, trotted faithfully at his heels.
He observed the trio of Dex Holders he was currently assigned to protect: Platinum, dignified and poised even in travel, Diamond, perpetually accompanied by his ever-hungry Munchlax, Lax, and Pearl, a whirlwind of boundless energy.
Pearl declared, pumping a fist into the air, "Alright, Route 210, here we come!"
His Chatot, Chatler, mimicking his enthusiasm with a sharp, "Here-we-come!"
Platinum adjusted the strap of her bag, her gaze fixed on the path ahead as she added, "Indeed. According to my research, this route should lead us directly to Celestic Town, a significant historical site."
But their ambitious march was halted abruptly. A chorus of melancholic, high-pitched cries echoed from deeper within the route, "Psy-ya… Psy-ya…"
As they rounded a bend, the source of the distress became clear. The path was utterly choked by a sprawling horde of Psyduck, their heads clutched in their webbed hands, eyes spinning with frantic confusion.
*Wooosh*
A wave of psychic energy, subtle yet potent, emanated from them, causing a dizzying sensation in the air. Diamond stumbled back, Lax catching him with a surprised grunt, "Whoa! What's with all the Psyduck?"
Platinum deduced, shield-like glasses glinting as she observed the scene, "It seems… they are all suffering from a collective headache."
Pearl whistled, impressed as he commented, "That's a lot of Psyduck confusion! We can't just push through that, can we?"
Azure's eyes, keen and analytical, scanned the agitated Pokémon. He ultimately shook his head as he stated, "No. Even if we could, it would be unnecessarily cruel and potentially dangerous. A full horde of confused Psyduck could easily overwhelm us with unexpected attacks. Best to avoid confrontation."
He patted Pikachu, who had subtly crackled with static, ready for anything. A collective sigh escaped the trio. Their direct path to Celestic Town was effectively blocked.
Diamond asked, already eyeing the nearby Cafe Cabin, a rustic structure perched comfortably beside the route, "So, what now?"
Azure gestured towards the cabin. He added, a slight smirk playing on his lips, "For now, we reroute. We'll cut through to Veilstone City. It's a bit out of the way, but it's a safer path. And besides, it might be just the detour you three need."
With that, the trio followed Azure inside the Café Cabin…
/////
[Sinnoh Region, Route 210 – Café Cabin]
Inside the cozy Cafe Cabin, the aroma of brewing coffee and sweet pastries filled the air. They settled into a booth, their Pokémon resting nearby, or in Lax's case, already eyeing the plate of berry pancakes Diamond had ordered for him.
Azure had chosen a simple, hearty breakfast, casually tossing a piece of toast to Eevee, who caught it with a happy yip. The Pichu (Mew) in his jacket stirred, letting out a tiny, contented squeak before settling back into slumber.
Platinum murmured, sipping her tea, "This is a pleasant stop, at least. But it does complicate our schedule."
Azure countered, taking a bite of his own pancake, "Complications are part of the journey. And sometimes, they lead to opportunities. Take Route 210, for example. While the main path is blocked, the surrounding areas are teeming with diverse Pokémon."
He gestured with his fork, a casual sweep of his hand encompassing the wilderness outside as he continued, "You three have battled well, but your teams could benefit from some strategic additions. Route 210 offers a variety of Pokémon with types and skills that might just fill the gaps."
Pearl's eyes lit up in excitement as he stated, "New Pokémon? You mean, like, wild Pokémon we can catch?"
Azure confirmed with a nod and explanation, "Precisely. You're Dex Holders now, right? It's part of the job description. Plus, having a more versatile team will serve you well on the road to Veilstone City, especially with the challenges that lie ahead."
Diamond, who had been contemplating the last bite of his pancake, nodded slowly as he commented, "Lax is strong, and Tru and Sol are great, but… I guess having more options wouldn't hurt."
Pearl boomed in agreement as he boldly exclaimed, "Absolutely! A new teammate! That's a fantastic idea! My team's ready for anything, but another powerhouse would make us unstoppable!"
Platinum, after a moment of thoughtful silence, conceded, stating, "Azure is correct. While my current Pokémon are quite capable, diversifying my team's type coverage and battle strategies would be prudent. Very well, I agree."
Azure smirked as he said, pushing back from the table, "Excellent. Then let's make the most of this detour. We'll split up and see what the route has to offer. Remember to choose wisely, and more importantly, to connect with your potential partners."
He glanced at Platinum, a faint flicker of amusement in his eyes as he added, "And try not to botch the capture process this time, Platinum."
Platinum's face flushed a delicate shade of pink. She protested, clearly recalling a less-than-stellar earlier attempt at Pokémon capture, "Azure! I assure you, I have refined my technique since then!"
Azure merely chuckled, softly rolling his eyes, not believing her as he stated, "Just making sure. I'll keep an eye on you, then."
With their new objective set, the group finished their breakfast, paid the bill, and stepped back out into the crisp Sinnoh morning. The Psyduck continued their mournful cries in the distance, but the trainers were now focused on the hunt.
/////
~Platinum's B. POV~
[Sinnoh Region, Later, Route 210]
*Rustle*
*Rustle*
The gentle whisper of leaves underfoot was the only sound breaking the serene quiet of the forest path I had chosen. Azure walked a few paces behind me, his silent presence both a comfort and, frankly, a bit of a challenge to my pride.
His earlier comment about my capture skills still pricked at me, a reminder of my inexperience compared to his seasoned prowess. My cheeks warmed again at the memory. I was determined to prove him wrong today.
Today, I would capture a Pokémon with elegance and efficiency. I adjusted my gaze sweeping through the dense foliage. The air was rich with the scent of damp soil and blooming wild berries.
Sunlight dappled through the canopy, painting shifting patterns on the forest floor. I focused, my mind clear, my senses alert for any sign of a suitable Pokémon. I wasn't looking for just any Pokémon; it had to be one that resonated with my strategic approach, perhaps complementing my current team, or offering a unique advantage.
"Chirp! Chirp!"
A soft, melodic call drew my attention. Hidden amongst the branches of a gnarled oak, a small, fluffy Pokémon with wings like clouds and a pale blue body was preening its feathers... A Swablu.
Its eyes, bright and curious, darted around, taking in its surroundings. It was quite a charming Pokémon, with its serene demeanor and graceful movements. And, more importantly, a Flying/Normal type, which would add a useful aerial component to my team, especially against the Grass and Bug types that often appear in these areas.
I murmured, a faint smile touching my lips, "A Swablu. An excellent candidate."
I turned to Azure, who merely offered a nod, a silent acknowledgment of my choice. He wasn't going to hold my hand, but he wasn't going to abandon me either. Good. This was my challenge.
I declared, releasing her Poké Ball with a confident flourish, "Lopunny, your assistance, if you please!"
*Pop*
*Wooosh*
A flash of light, and my elegant Lopunny materialized before me, stretching gracefully. Her fur, soft and luxurious, seemed to shimmer in the dappled sunlight. She gave me a confident nod, her long ears twitching, ready for battle.
I commanded, pointing towards the Swablu, "Lopunny, use Quick Attack to close the distance!"
*SWISH*
Lopunny moved in a blur, a white streak across the forest floor, leaping towards the tree. The Swablu, startled, let out a surprised 'Swab! Swab!' and took flight, its cloud-like wings beating rapidly.
I noted, "It's airborne! Lopunny, use Ice Beam!"
Lopunny gathered frosty energy, a shimmering blue orb forming between her paws. Then, it unleashed a beam of frigid power, shot out, arcing towards the agile Swablu.
*VVVWHOOSH*
The Swablu, however, was quick. With a sudden burst of speed, it swerved, deftly dodging the attack.
It chirped, a challenge in its tone, "Swab-luuu! (You dare attack me, mongrel?!)."
I observed, my brow furrowed slightly, "Persistent, I see! Lopunny, anticipate its movements! Use Swift!"
Lopunny pivoted, dark stars of light forming around her…
*SHINK*
*SHINK*
*SHINK*
She launched a barrage of star-shaped energy projectiles, tracking the airborne Pokémon. The Swablu twisted and turned, weaving through the shots, but one of the stars…
*THWACK*
Connected with its wing, causing it to falter momentarily. It let out a pained cry, "Swaaab! (Ah! You bitch!)"
I praised, "Excellent, Lopunny! Now, use Bounce!"
*BOING*
Lopunny sprang into the air with incredible agility, leaping high among the branches. Her upward trajectory aimed directly at the now-descending Swablu. The Swablu's eyes widened, realizing it was cornered in mid-air.
I couldn't help but smirk as I followed up in an excited tone, "Now, while it's vulnerable! Ice Beam again!"
*VVVWHOOSH*
Another icy blast, this time at close range.
*CRACK*
*THUD*
The Swablu was caught, momentarily encased in a thin layer of ice. It fell from the branch with a soft THUD! onto the forest floor, shivering, but still conscious. Its wings, though not entirely frozen, were heavy with frost.
I exclaimed, reaching for an empty Poké Ball, "Perfect! It was clearly weakened, but still struggling."
I aimed my Poké Ball, my thumb hovering over the button. This was it. The moment of truth. My previous attempts had often resulted in the Pokémon either escaping or being accidentally knocked out. Azure's earlier comment echoed in my mind.
Azure's voice cut in, calm and clear, "Wait."
I lowered the Poké Ball, looking back at him. He hadn't moved, merely observed, then stated calmly, "Its speed and evasiveness are its key strengths. You've done well to ground it and apply status. However, a Swablu, even weakened, can still regain its composure and fly off if given the chance. But you need to ensure it can't evade again. A quick, precise move that doesn't risk knocking it out."
He pointed to a cluster of small rocks near the Swablu. Following his advice, I commanded, "Lopunny, use Low Kick on the ground directly in front of it. Not to hit it, but to create a momentary tremor."
I blinked, understanding dawning. A quick tremor to destabilize it further, without directly damaging it.
It was a subtle, precise tactic, as I said, "Lopunny, you heard Azure! Low Kick!"
*WHUMP*
*SHUDDER*
Lopunny brought her leg down hard on the ground just in front of the Swablu. A small SHUDDER! went through the earth, causing the already unstable Swablu to TOPPLE! and momentarily lose its balance, its small body rolling slightly.
It let out a confused "Swaaab-uh? (Nani?!)"
Azure urged, a rare hint of urgency in his tone, "Now!"
I didn't hesitate. My thumb pressed firmly on the button.
*CLICK*
The Poké Ball flew from my hand, a red and white arc…
*THWACK*
… and it is directly hitting the Swablu on the head. It sucked the Pokémon inside with a flash of red light.
*Wiggle*
*Riggle*
*Niggle*
My heart hammered in my chest. Lopunny watched intently. The Poké Ball shook, once, twice, a third time, each tremble a moment of agonizing suspense…
*BON*
… Then, with a soft BOM, it settled. A quiet, triumphant puff of smoke escaped from the button.
I breathed, a triumphant smile spreading across my face, "I… I caught it! I caught a Swablu!! We did it, Lopunny!"
Lopunny hopped over, her soft fur brushing against my leg, offering a congratulatory nudge. I carefully picked up the Poké Ball, its weight feeling incredibly satisfying in my hand. Azure approached, a genuine, albeit small, smile gracing his lips as he said, "Well done, Platinum. You listened, and you adapted. Your Swablu will be a fine addition."
My face warmed, this time with genuine pride, not embarrassment, as I replied thankfully, "Thank you. Your advice was… invaluable."
I looked at the Poké Ball, imagining the fluffy new companion within. My first self-caught Pokémon on this journey. It felt liberating.
It felt right. And the best part, I didn't screw up!
Feeling overly excited, I shall out top Azure in bonding and friendship!
I'll outdo him in convincing Pokémon with words alone, like the famous Gym Leader Yellow of Viridian City or the Champion of Kanto Fire Red!
It just seems that to be the best trainers, they must have a great bond and understanding with their Pokémon. Azure, with his Johto and Hoenn teams, is a prime example of a strong bond that could overcome any obstacles.
Now, to begin the bonding process!
*Pop*
Releasing the Swablu, I crouched down, extending a hand towards the floating Pokémon, a wide, enthusiastic smile on my face. I said in a determined voice, eyeing my new partner, "Oh, you darling little Swablu! You are simply exquisite! Would you care to join my team? We could explore the world, study ancient ruins, and perhaps even... practice synchronized flight patterns!"
The Swablu, still slightly dazed from the battle, but more perplexed by my overly bright enthusiasm, tilted its head. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, it zipped forward, letting out an angry chirp!
"CHIRP! (FUCK YOU!)"
*SMACK*
– and with a swift, surprising motion, it pecked me directly on the forehead!
I yelped, clutching my head, "Ow!"
The little peck, while not truly painful, was sharp and indignant. I recoiled, blinking rapidly, a surprised gasp escaping my lips.
I could already feel a small bump forming where its tiny beak had made contact. I couldn't help but mutter, "Goodness! A rather assertive little creature, isn't it?"
Beside me, I heard a snort, then a full-blown burst of laughter. Azure roared, clutching his stomach, "Hahaha! Oh, Platinum, you never disappoint!"
His Pikachu was on his shoulder, laughing just as hard, its little body shaking, "Pika-pika-pika! (You can't just make this up! Hahaha!!)"
Eevee, tail wagging, let out a series of amused cries of laughter, "Evo-vui! Evo-vui! (Oh boy, can't wait to see how Mega Evolving is going to go. Hah! I can picture it!)"
Even the Pichu emerged from Azure's jacket, its tiny eyes sparkling with mirth, as it wiggled with suppressed giggles, "Pichu-chu! Pichu-chu! (Oh… she's dead. Good luck taming that dragon traitor… Pftt… Hahaha!!)"
I looked at all of them, the Swablu now hovering a short distance away, still looking rather cross, and my Lopunny looking utterly bewildered by the turn of events. My face burned even hotter this time, a deep crimson.
This was hardly the diplomatic start I had envisioned!
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A/N: Hope you liked the chapter and Platinum having a Swablu. Figured it made sense and give it a prideful personality.