#chimchar is asleep so there is no fire--

[brightresearchers]

Barry's Pokémon - Main team

#392 - Infernape ♂ Name: Simon Type: Fire/Fighting Ability: Iron Fist

Original Trainer: Professor Rowan Met on Route 201 at level 5.

Hasty nature. Highly curious. Likes sweet food. Dislikes sour food.

Held item: King’s Rock

Preferred moves: Fire Punch - The target is attacked with a fiery punch. This may also leave the target with a burn.  Aura Sphere - The user lets loose a pulse of aura power from deep within its body at the target. This attack never misses.  Acrobatics - The user nimbly strikes the target. This attack does massive damage if the user isn't holding an item.  Fake Out - This attack hits first and makes the target flinch. It works only on the first turn each time the user enters battle. 

Barry’s first Pokémon, given to him by Professor Rowan when they first met. Much like his trainer, he’s very impulsive and likely to take action quickly and decisively, which among the other Pokémon raised by the professor makes him act as a sort of leader figure even though his decisions usually get questioned. He’s very physically affectionate and as a Chimchar had a habit of climbing into people’s shoulders if he trusted them enough, but now that he evolved into a big fire hazard that habit is no longer advisable. Simon’s also surprisingly well-versed in geography and likes to show off his knowledge.

He’s a classic representative of Barry’s preference for all-out offense and hit-and-run tactics, overwhelming his opponents with his superior agility and then unleashing devastating fire-based attacks to end the fight as soon as possible. If he does have to worry about opposing attacks in a battle, what he lacks in defense he makes up for in sheer nimbleness, so instead of taking hits head-on he’s much more adept at dodging with acrobatic maneuvers that only add more momentum to his hyper-aggressive fighting style. The flame at the top of his head also makes for an excellent makeshift campfire.

His name’s derived from a certain video game character from an investigation series that Barry really likes. He didn’t realize it at the time, but the reason why he thought the name was so fitting was because it sounds like simian.

#398 - Staraptor ♂ Name: Falco Type: Normal/Flying Ability: Intimidate

Original Trainer: Barry Met on Lake Verity at level 2.

Serious nature. Quick tempered. No food preferences.

Held item: Shell Bell

Preferred moves: Fly - The user soars and then strikes its target on the next turn. This can also be used to fly to any familiar town.  Close Combat - The user fights the target up close, inflicting damage without guarding itself. This also lowers the user's Defense and Sp. Def stats.  U-Turn - After making its attack, the user rushes back to switch places with a party Pokémon in waiting.  Uproar - The user attacks in an uproar for three turns. During that time, no Pokémon can fall asleep. 

At the very beginning of Barry’s journey, when he was searching for rare Pokémon at Lake Verity, he ended up getting attacked by an extremely territorial Starly, which he caught right there after seeing the potential for greatness in such a reckless Pokémon. Compared to most of the other Pokémon on the team he’s not much of a talker and usually keeps to his own devices, but when he does talk he shows a surprisingly mean personality with a strong preference for edgy humor. Barry, of course, thinks that his Pokémon being an emo kid is absolutely hilarious.

In battle, he’s well-known for preferring rushdown tactics without much regard for his own defense, usually dodging attacks by flying really high up as a way to give himself longevity in a fight instead of trying to parry or resist any attacks thrown his way. He’s great at punching holes against enemy teams, causing as much damage as possible in close quarters and going down relatively quickly, but if for some reason he doesn’t get to close the distance in a fight he instead tends to rely on sound moves to blast his opponents from afar. He has one hell of a shrill cry, so being on the receiving end of his sound blasts is quite painful.

His name’s a reference to a famous singer with a very popular old-timey song that Barry’s mom regularly listens to. The fact that it sounds like the word falcon is coincidental.

#419 - Floatzel ♂ Name: Miles Type: Water Ability: Swift Swim

Original Trainer: Barry Met on Route 205 at level 11.

Relaxed nature. Mischievous. Likes sour food. Dislikes sweet food.

Held item: Punching Glove

Preferred moves: Liquidation - The user slams into the target using a full-force blast of water. This may also lower the target's Defense stat.  Ice Punch - The target is punched with an icy fist. This may also leave the target with frostbite.  Dig - The user burrows into the ground, then attacks on the next turn. It can also be used to exit dungeons.  Swift - Star-shaped rays are shot at opposing Pokémon. This attack never misses. 

Miles was caught shortly after the incident on Valley Windworks, as one of the Pokémon that got disturbed by Team Galactic’s actions and ended up lashing out against humans that crossed his territory. After Barry managed to calm him down, he actually turned out to be surprisingly well-behaved, acting as a voice of reason in this otherwise extremely chaotic team. With that being said, he also has a mean streak and likes to sneak around and misplace objects just to mess with his trainer and teammates, as they’re overall pretty easy to rile up. He’s a big fan of contests.

Being an agile Pokémon in land and water, Miles has the usual fighting style in Barry’s team of overwhelming enemies with speed and then laying the smackdown on them, but something unique to him is that he has a preference for jabs and parries, fighting at close range not unlike a boxer without relying on constant dodging maneuvers. His tails essentially function as extra limbs when he’s up close, and when they’re spinning to act as propellers they have a surprising amount of cutting power. Miles’ fighting style is heavily influenced by Barry’s wrestling lessons with Crasher Wake, and he also looks up to the gym leader as a mentor.

His name is derived from a certain video game character with similar colors that also has two tails that can spin. Barry’s actually really into video games.

#421 - Cherrim ♂ Name: Cheri Berry Type: Grass Ability: Flower Gift

Original Trainer: Dawn Met on Eterna City at level 14.

Bold nature. Somewhat stubborn. Likes sour food. Dislikes spicy food.

Held item: Heat Rock

Preferred moves: Petal Blizzard - The user stirs up a violent petal blizzard and damages everything around it.  Weather Ball - This move's type and power change depending on the weather at the time the move is used.  Endure - The user endures any attack with at least 1 HP. This move's chance of failing rises if used in succession.   Rollout - The user rolls into the target to deal damage, then becomes fixated on using this move. 

Cheri was originally caught by Dawn during her visit to Floaroma and later on traded with Barry so that they could help each other as trainers and add more variety to their teams. He’s a bit of a temperamental Pokémon, being very energetic when the weather’s nice and he can get his fill of sunlight but getting far more reserved and even a little impatient if he has to spend a lot of time in the dark. His mood shifts seem to align very well with his trainer’s own temperamental attitude, so if one of them is feeling happy the other will probably be in a good mood as well, and the same is true when one of them is down in the dumps.

Like any Cherrim, Cheri draws power from sunlight to activate his fully-bloomed form, becoming faster and stronger while also being capable of sharing that energy with his allies. Unlike most members of his species, however, he’s able to transform at will without necessarily requiring strong sunlight or even exposure to daylight due to extensive training, but apparently that ability can be rather exhausting if he overdoes it. When his petals are folded he can save up energy, but since that form is actually pretty resilient and can take hits well he can also switch back to it in order to protect himself.

He’s very obviously named after the berry, but his name is also a reference to a song that Barry’s dad really likes. Also, it has a nice rhyme to it.

#214 - Heracross ♂ Name: Samson Type: Bug/Fighting Ability: Guts

Original Trainer: Barry Met on Route 210 at level 15.

Jolly nature. Very finicky. Likes sweet food. Dislikes dry food.

Held item: Honey

Preferred moves: Megahorn - Using its tough and impressive horn, the user rams into the target to inflict damage.  Revenge - This attack move's power is doubled if the user has been hurt by the opponent in the same turn.  Spikes - The user lays a trap of spikes at the feet of the opposing team. The spikes will damage opposing Pokémon that switch into battle.  Thief - The user attacks and steals the target's held item simultaneously. The user can't steal anything if it already holds an item. 

Samson was caught after Barry lured him with honey on Route 210, but before that he was known to harass the workers at a café in that area so that he could steal their food. He’s an avid foodie with a strong preference for sweets, and as such he can be very easily bribed with honey, but if left unchecked he’s also known to have an incredibly malicious streak and complete willingness to bully and coerce others into getting what he wants. Thankfully, Barry seems to have this situation under control, as he can somewhat relate to his Pokémon’s questionable moral compass.

His strongest trait in combat is his lifting strength, so he’s well-known to toss his opponents around with his horn even when they’re much heavier than he is, but even beyond that he can lift objects like boulders and tree logs to use as blunt weapons, so he’s a surprisingly brutal fighter. If an opponent assumes that getting out of grappling range will keep them safe, however, they’ll be in for a nasty surprise as his horn can also be used as a piercing weapon and he’s much faster than one would expect, being able to close the distance in a matter of seconds when he’s in the air.

His name is, of course, taken from the mythological figure. Barry took suggestions from Dawn, and she thought that Hercules would be a bit too obvious.

#143 - Snorlax ♂ Name: Elmo Type: Normal Ability: Thick Fat

Original Trainer: Barry Met on Route 221 at level 5.

Docile nature. Proud of its power. No food preferences.

Held item: Leftovers

Preferred moves: Rest - The user goes to sleep for two turns. This fully restores the user's HP and cures any status conditions.  Covet - The user endearingly approaches the target, then steals the target's held item.  Heat Crash - The user slams into the target with its flame-covered body. The more the user outweighs the target, the greater the move's power.  Darkest Lariat - The user swings both arms and hits the target. The target's stat changes don't affect the damage inflicted by this move. 

Elmo was caught near the end of Barry’s journey in Sinnoh, after a long search all over the region for the elusive Munchlax that led him to a strange seaside route surprisingly close to his hometown. He’s a very sleepy Pokémon, usually not having many words to say, but there’s a certain confidence to him that shows he’s extremely powerful and aware of it. Very cooperative as long as he’s being bribed with food, Elmo will eat just about anything with no distinctions, but if he’s on an empty stomach he’ll sulk and complain about it, so he constantly needs to be pampered.

Unlike most of Barry’s Pokémon, who rely on speed because they can’t take hits very well, Elmo is an absolute juggernaut, charging forward slowly but surely and smashing anything on his path. He’s so hard to break through that sometimes he’s known to take naps during battles to restore energy and wake up completely unfazed, but his trainer doesn’t really like that kind of strategy because it takes up too much time. He’s had some wrestling lessons from Wake as well, so he’s known to throw some mean punches, and his favorite strategy is to overwhelm his enemies with his sheer size and pin them down until they have to tap out.

He’s named after a kids’ show character because Barry saw a certain resemblance when he was still unevolved. The reference’s not as obvious now that he’s fully grown.

[littlegnome145]

Finished the little what if scenario. It's with the au where Chimchar survives that I talked a bit about before. I might continue this if I can. 1,535 words

Chimchar wakes up to the dull sound of cracking fire.

Everything is cold, it's so so cold, but he was wrapped in something soft and there was warmth near him. The child had barely half a mind to realize that it was probably a bonfire, but then again, he didn't really care. It was chasing away the cold, even if slightly, and for now, that was enough for him.

The small prevolve would have simply gone back to sleep, not even bothering to try and open his eyes, if it weren't for the fact that a part of him was screaming that something wasn't right.

'You shouldn't be here' it shouts, 'you weren't here when you fainted, you might be in danger'.

Chimchar can't exactly remember what the annoying voice was talking about, but he knew that what it was saying was true. He could feel it in his gut, and his gut is never wrong.

Something happened. He's not alone.

A spike of adrenalina runs through the child, who was gradually becoming more and more aware of his surroundings. He tries to open his eyes, but quickly closes them again with a hiss when the fire's brightness overwhelms him.

There was another sound. One that the child only became truly aware of when it suddenly stopped. He can't pinpoint what it was, but he knows that whatever was making it knew he was no longer asleep.

Chimchar does his best to remain still as he hears quiet steps approaching him. He remembers some stuff Squirtle had taugh him on how to recognize footsteps and tries to put it into practice.

Whatever was approaching him was bipedal. The floor was hard and a small echo was made with each step, so they were probably in a cave.

'What else what else??' Chimchar shouts in his own brain, he had to focus on the sound, but it was difficult to do so when his heart was beating so loudly. When his head was rushing with fearful thoughts and scattered, incomplete lessons from his guardian.

The footsteps weren't heavy, but they weren't exactly light either. He hears shuffling, they were messing with a bag, maybe? So it could-

The child's brain stills as he feels a cold, small hand lighly tap his cheek. Definitely not a human hand. "Hey uh, kid? You awake?"

That was familiar. It felt different, but it was definitely familiar. He knew them, he's sure of it. He trusted them. Or at least he thinks he does.

That was his guardian, his teacher, his d-

Chimchar opens his eyes.

And is met with the relieved face of someone he had never seen before.

He scratches the stranger without even thinking. It does little next to nothing to actually hurt them, but they do seem somewhat stunned, confused.

He had to get out of here. He does not know this pokemon, he's in danger-

Something seems to click for the unknown figure, who puts their hands up to indicate that they mean no harm and looks at the child worriedly.

"Hey- listen it's me. I'm Squirtle, I just evolved! It's okay, you're safe! You need to breathe."

Chimchar only realizes that he was hyperventilating when he gets called out on it.

It was so surreal to have fear completely take him over like that. Before today, the child was sure that he was scared of nothing. He was gonna be the strongest pokémon ever, of course he never felt fear! Fear was for weaklings.

And yet, here he was. Pressing himself against a wall with the little strength he still has, barely able to contain his breathing, his heart beating oh so incredibly loud.

He's safe.

He's not surrounded by ice and snow anymore.

He's…

…He shouldn't be though. Chimchar is sure of it.

Chimchar had climbed the mountain alone. He had snuck away from Squirtle and Turtwig to try and face challenges alone for once. He wanted to get stronger.

He faced that thing alone. He fought it alone and he was killed from it alone, or at least he thought he was…

How is he sitting here with Squirtle unless he-

Chimchar, realizing what had happened, couldn't help but groan in annoyance.

"Why did you follow me? I could do this alone you know!"

His guardian raised a brow, expression filled with sarcasm. The wartortle sighs and starts looking for something in a discarded backpack that was beside him.

Backpack?

Chimchar looks at it, then glances around. The soft surface he was laying on is a winter coat. A human's winter coat. There were also a couple of random items the child did not recognize scattered half hazardly on the cave's floor, around the bonfire.

Wartortle seems to finally find what he was looking for, as he visibly relaxes at the sight of an orange spray bottle. He checks it over for a bit before kneeling in front of the child.

"Okay, so this is a super potion, it's an item commonly used to heal pokémon. You're on pretty low hp, so it's best you use it, just to be safe."

Chimchar, despite his annoyance, nods, and before he know it, he is sprayed with the healing potion. It's cold and sort of uncomfortable, but he gradually starts to feel the remaining aches in his body start to dull. The kid can feel himself becoming sleepy again, but tries to keep himself awake, if only to maintain whatever was left of his pride.

The older pokémon seems to relax a little by the visible relief the potion brought to the child. Putting the item to the side, he adjusts the coat Chimchar was laying on so the edges cover him like a makeshift blanket and, once satisfied, sits beside him.

"Are you feeling okay? You were in pretty rough shape when I found you."

The prevolve loathes it when this happens, loathes with all of his being. Squirtle always got him out of fights as soon as he had to face anything minimally challenging, always with the same concerned look and know-it-all speeches. He was never going to get stronger if he continued being coddled like this.

Nevertheless, Chimchar was way too tired to properly show his frustration. He wanted to scream, to bite, to run away fuming, but his body was just no numb, so cold.

He wasn't just going to thank him, though. He might be tired, but not that tired.

"I'm fine." he replies, only now noticing how scratchy his voice had become, nevertheless he ignores it. "How did you get all this stuff anyway?"

Wartortle looks away in shame, scratching the back of his own head and trying to think of a decent answer.

"Well uhh, I borrowed it from a human."

"You mean you stole it from a human." Chimchar immediately replies. The older pokémon sighs in frustration.

"Yeah, I stole it from them."

The cave is silent for a little while, only filled with the soft cracking of the fire.

"Did you kill them?" Chimchar asks, intrigued with the potential bloody details this even could have caused.

"No. They had a flying type with them, so I just told her to get her trainer out of here. I kept some of their stuff though." Wartortle can't help but chuckle at the kid's immediate loss of interest, it reminded him of…

He shook away the thought before it even fully formed. This was not the time to think about his old friends.

"Anyway, you're safe now. We'll get out of here as soon as possible, but we have to wait for the snow storm to calm itself down first."

Chimchar raises a brow at that. Storm? His memory was a bit hazy, but he surely didn't remember a storm. Did that giant pokémon cause it?

"It hit not long after I found you. I don't think that the gods obsessed guy cause it though. Unless he had been keeping it from happening? I don't know."

The child tries to focus on trying to hear the storm. The entrance of the cave had been blocked with a big boulder- something most likely done by Wartortle- so it was a little difficult to do, but with some effort he was able to listen to the hectic wind from the outside.

Just thinking of how cold it all most likely was made him shiver. Good thing he's inside the cave, he's had enough ice and snow for one day- or maybe even for a lifetime.

"I was lucky to find this place as quickly as I did, or else we would've been in a lot of trouble." Wartortle says, looking at the giant stone blocking the entrance.

Yeah, lucky.

Chimchar was still annoyed, though. He wanted to be able to do these things on his own. Just this once. He huffs, feeling himself gradually start to drift off.

"Ugh, as soon as I see Turtwig again I'm gonna kill him for snitching on me."

Wartortle, who was sitting next to the child, suddenly stands up in a panic. His previous calm posture gone in the blink of an eye and replaced by sheer and utter terror.

"SHIT- THE OTHER KID!"

[barry-propaganda]

Holy shit, I just decided to check watch.pokemon.com on a whim, only to find it’s got season 11 up on it currently, meaning it’s got Barry’s introductory episode. So I have decided that I must do a not-so-live reaction (‘cause I’m gonna put all my thoughts in this one post and then post it).

Alright, here we go: S11E49 Barry’s Busting Out All Over

The Sinnoh Arc openings go HARD.

I know the episode just started, but HE’S HERE! Love that they introduce him with the classic “THUD!”

Love the consistency of him saying he’s gonna fine you but then him never enforcing it; maybe he keeps a running tab?

Brock, Dawn; Ash was not running that fast or that far away that you missed him meeting Barry.

Dawn, why do you sound surprised to have found Fantina at her gym?

THUD! the sequel

Okay, so Dawn knows who Barry is, but they still made the executive decision to have them not be childhood friends in the anime?

It’s been so long since I watched the Sinnoh Arc that I forgot just how big a Paul stan they made Barry. If you’re gonna have Barry constantly bring up a trainer he thinks is real strong, at least get it right and have him bring up Palmer. (That other post was right that he really does feel like a mouthpiece to hype up Paul here.)

I will say, this definitely feels like a conversation that would happen between 10 year olds, at least.

Barry, I know I think you deserve better than Palmer, but I would literally take you not shutting up about him over you not shutting up about Paul; since, you know, that’d be CONSISTENT.

[Barry: I have 3 badges. Ash: I’ve got 4.] XD this reminds of when Ash said he had 7 badges and then Barry flexed his 6 badges on him.

More on them being 10, it definitely makes them constantly falling for Team Rocket schemes more believable; especially here since this is Barry’s first encounter with them.

Sinnoh Arc motto is fun, especially since I think it’s the one that gets interrupted the most; my favorite will always be when Jessie was hit with Yawn in the Hippopotas episode and fell asleep during the motto, so James has to cover her lines while doing an impression of her.

SPEAKING OF THEM BEING INTERRUPTED, BARRY LITERALLY DID! They were just about to finish too 😂

I’ve never understood how the hair that Dawn has pulled back by that third clip is longer than the rest of her hair.

Love how offended TR gets at Fantina saying they don’t know how to dance.

Also love “James loves his Pokémon” moments, this time featuring his old Cacnea.

Those three have GOTTA be doing theatre on the weekend or something, right? The dramatics, the rhyming, the alliteration, etc.

“I’m not sure what you mean by bonding with them.” BARRY, DON’T YOU HAVE A FUCKING ROSERADE?? I mean, unless you caught it as a Roselia…

Barry, why are you making it sound like Paul is who inspired you to become a Trainer? WHAT ABOUT YOUR DAD, BARRY?

Barry, is your Staraptor secretly part Grass-Type? How did one Flamethrower from a Chimchar take it out?

I WAS RIGHT, YOU DO HAVE A ROSERADE!!

I always forget that the anime tends to not give a flying fuck about type match-ups or STAB or whatever.

Dawn, he also earlier put a Grass-Type against a Fire-Type, and he won that bout, so… Also Empoleon is part Steel-Type, which I think makes Electric neutral (I forget if it does or not) which realistically doesn’t make sense (since water and metal both conduct electricity).

Huh, surprised they kept the consistency of having to recharge after Hyper Beam.

RIP the days of Volt Tackle; you will be missed.

Alright, episode over; that was fun. Thanks for joining me slip a lil further down the Barry wormhole.

[hunty627]

Chimchar, the chimp Pokémon. A fire type. Chimchar has a flame on its rear that is fueled by flammable gas in its tummy, so the flame can’t be put out by water. The flame will only go out when Chimchar is fast asleep.

it’s Chimchar

[cheshire387]

[hostile-heros]

so are you a liar liar pants on fire?

???: “Hhhhgn. Fuck yooou. Ffinne I’ll ggeddup-”

Their complaining stops immidiently when they finally open their eyes properly to see that they are lying on a beach.

???: “Wh.... Thhe fuck. The fuck is going on the fuck am I?”

The sleepiness wears off immidiently as they wipe their eyes to focus on what's going on.

???: “Where’s home. This. This isn’t my house what the hell-”

They crawl up to the water and stare at it.

???: “. . . That’s not me.”

They reach up to their face and the reflection copies.

???: “. . . That IS me. . . I.”

They look down and inspect themselves.

???: “. . . Chimchar. I’m. I’m a Chimchar. Why am I a Chimchar. I was at home- was I at home did I fall asleep at school- what the hell is. This is fucked.”

The Chimchar slaps themself and tugs on their ears and punches the ground many times.

???: “Why haven’t I woken up. I’m meant to wake up. Get me out I don’t like this dream this one is too weird. Feels too real. Wake me up now.”

They lean back and scream at the sky.

???: “WAKE ME UP NOW! THIS ISN’T FUNNY!”

???: “. . .”

???: “This is real isn’t it. I hurt myself and I didn’t wake up and now there’s a fucking green- no that’s too teal-ish to be green. Seafoam maybe- augh colour names don’t matter. You’re just a fuckin’... Mewtwo? You look like one what the fuck is going on.”

The Chimchar is conscious.

( @ask-nayden )

[youtriggeredmytrapcard]

@wild-ditto-appeared​:

Ditto was worried about him. Angry Dragon Man was jumpier than usual. It hadn't meant to scare him.

I'll sleep when I feel like it.

Ditto was tempted to answer his questions. In all honesty, Ditto hadn't been eating. Or drinking. Due to its dehydration, its body couldn't produce more of that transparent, near-lavender mucus that usually covered Ditto's body, making it more sticky and stripping it of its sense of smell. As a result, Ditto had dust clinging to its body, both inside and out.

It was not comfortable.

Maybe Ditto had no place telling him what he should or shouldn't do. Sleeping was hard for some humans, after all. Even some Pokemon preferred to stay awake at night, although there were plenty of others who needed far more time asleep than anyone else. Komala was the first Pokemon that came to mind, Snorlax the second.

It had nearly run out of sticky notes. Dragon Man was tired. And here in the vents, Ditto would surely starve to death if it were going to wait for Dragon Man to go back to bed. He'd been there since the early morning, after all, and the sun had set a long time ago.

Ditto hesitated. Should... it really do this?

For humans, sleep is very important. They aren't as resilient as Pokemon are because they weren't made for battle.

Yes. It should do this.

Ditto slipped out of the vents, contorting its body to fit easily through the thin vent slits and touch down on the ground. It Transformed!!! into a Munna, hoping to replicate its abilities.

Psychic powers were difficult to master--the most difficult of them all, actually, because Ditto could shift its entire body, but not its brain. Fire-type moves, for instance, were easy to replicate because the physical body, the vessel made the fire, like a Chimchar's belly or Tepig's tail and nose. That's how it was with most Pokemon. But with Psychic-type moves, it was entirely different. Those attacks came not only from the body, but from the mind. They had to have a latent psychic ability to be able to use that kind of power. Sometimes, even humans could wield it.

Ditto was not a Psychic-type, nor was it one of many Pokemon who could use Psychic-type moves despite not being one. Munna was a Psychic-type, however. It had never tried replicating a Psychic-type move up until now, so there was only one real way to find out.

But... Ditto didn't move. Not yet. Dragon Man had to say yes first, or at the very least acknowledge Ditto, or sit down, or be someplace safe where he wouldn't get hurt. Hypnosis could be very potent, after all.

Oh, crap.

He had turned his attention back to his computer, and didn’t notice the movement coming out of the vents until a flash of light happened. Suddenly he was slamming his laptop shut, leaning over the desk to get a look. It’s out! It transformed into... a pig? With flowers drawn on it? He had no idea what he was looking at, only that this could be his only chance to catch the creature. The new form it had taken didn’t look like it could run very fast with those stumpy legs.

He should be careful. He should also be asleep.

Kaiba moved around to the front of the desk to face the creature, feeling a little stupid that he’d been stressing over something so small. It wasn’t even doing anything! Just staring at him. “Ditto--! I knew you had to come out of there sooner or later...!” Now how could he catch it? It’d probably transform again and flee if he just ran at it and tried to grab it. So maybe he should... approach slowly, and try to grab it.

It’s worth a try. He took a step closer, cautious, before he started thinking about why Ditto had come out. What he’d just said, that may have caused it. “... Did I remind you that you had to eat?” That sounded stupid. It also sounded like Kaiba might be on the menu, if he was hungry and Ditto was waiting for him to sleep. Maybe he... shouldn’t get any closer.

[voyage-in-the-dark]

reborn playthrough

i played a pokemon fangame called Pokemon Reborn that sadly i left unfinished because my laptop just couldn’t handle the game, but it was the most fun i’ve had with pokemon since my first pokemon game, Sapphire, years ago. i love tough and difficult, Dark Souls-esque games a la Hollow Knight which is the biggest reason why i loved this game. the battles are so difficult! i love it! there are so little pokemon available that i was forced to use a lot of pokemon i’d never even looked at twice and pokemon that i usually dismissed. i also loved the little side quests where characters or pokemon had little events that allowed you to catch them, and my favorite thing ever is the Field Effects. they make the game so much fun and they make so much sense. so sad i couldn’t finish this

My members:

Ebony (Mightyena). She has Moxie -- she is a little wild and becomes savage and bloodthirsty after every kill. Because of the Lax Incense that she has been holding, she has a pungent and lingering odor that causes enemies to hesitate or miss when attacking her. She's a wild creature and obeys Rook's commands because that’s her 'pack leader'. She was taken in as a Poochyena. She attacked Rook, lured by the scent of PokeSnax, for food (she had been separated from her pack and was rummaging around the rubbish when she smelled the food in her bag). Rook realized she wanted food and gave it to her and she attacked it with hunger and energy. Later on, she began following Rook around hoping for more food.

RETIRED: Persimmon (Kricketune). Given to Rook as a Kricketot because she was listless and tired -- she wanted very much to see the world and her owner wasn't able to. Rook began bringing her around and letting her fight. She began to be more confident and a light appeared in her eyes. She was trusted and valued; she was an important and powerful member of the team; she learned to protect and take care of herself -- she had a killer Fury Cutter that allowed her to sweep opponents. She eventually evolved into Kricketune. With Rook, she saw sights and wonders and met lots of Pokemon. After a while, Persimmon and Rook decided to part ways. Persimmon had found a home with the wild Bug Pokemon near Beryl Ward.

RETIRED: Olive (Garbodor). Caught her in the alley. She has a very hardy type of personality. She was invaluable in the earlier parts of Rook's journey because of how tough she was no matter what attack was used against her; she helped Rook out from really tough spots -- Toxic Spikes and Toxic whatever that couldn't be defeated.

RETIRED: Chocolate (Lopunny). She wears a Soothe Bell around her neck, always. She was taken in as a Buneary. She travelled around with Rook for quite a while before trying out her first battle. She won and she felt heady and happy. After a few more battles, she evolved. As a Lopunny, she was swift and hit hard. She moves fast, and with Return, she usually could take down whatever enemy she was facing. She enjoys keeping herself clean and she likes to take care of her appearance.

Ivory (Excadrill). She was an Egg given to Rook. She hatched into a Drilbur and was named Ivory for her claws that were ivory-white. She loved to tunnel and she attacks by clasping her claws together into a drill formation before her and diving at the foe. This is how she used Earthquake, her favorite move. Diving, drill-first, at the ground by her enemy's feet. She never missed her Earthquakes. She loved to play as a Drilbur. She is often given Soft Sand. It is a loose, silky sand that boosts the power of her Earthquake. Her fur is silky and coarse, like a cat's. Rook spends time grooming her every night. Ivory also spends a lot of time cleaning, sharpening and honing her claws every night to prepare herself for any battles the next day. She is confident and doesn't fear losing. 

Mauve (Gothitelle). Her mother, a Gothitelle, let her go with Rook. She joined as a Gothirita and has evolved into a Gothitelle. She loves the night sky, the stars, the planets, the cosmos. Every night, there is a little period after everyone's asleep when she stands and stares at the sky, still as a statue, as though she was communing. She doesn't say much and her face is usually expressionless.

Jade (Roserade). She was a Budew, stuck on a high wall and separated from her trainer. Rook took her in and gave her a little Soothe Bell to play with. She came to love Rook and evolved into a Roselia shortly after. She has a killer Giga Drain that's quite harsh and harrowing to the victim. Roots whip out of her rose-arms and funnel into the opponent, sucking away the enemy's nutrients. Water-type Pokemon are very weak to this move because Jade can drain massive amounts of water. Jade is effective and gets the job done -- any opponents who are weak to her Giga Drain are badly poisoned by her Toxic and die within three turns. She wears a Miracle Seed on a necklace around her neck. The Seed is imbued with life force and Rook picked it up on her travels. The Roserade line have their own culture and young Budew in the wild go through a coming-of-age initiation rite where they seek to evolve into Roselias. The Roserade line live near flowers in the wild and flowers are a central part of their culture. They take care of their environment and meticulously drain any water sources near them of any pollutants. Because her tie to nature, the Miracle Seed is a precious and almost sacred item. Jade pauses before going into battle and prays to it.

-----

Reborn Day 1 (unfinished) I picked Cardinal, a Chimchar and was thrown into two battles. After the battle was over, I stopped and let him out. He was really obedient earlier, listening to all my commands, and I wanted to thank him for it. I know we're not used to each other. I crouched down so I wasn't towering over him and introduced myself. He has such lively and intelligent eyes and he was quite serious even if he wanted to keep looking around. I held out my hand for a fist pump and he looked at it curiously and then he looked at his own hand and imitated me and touched my fist. I patted him on the head. I wanted to let him wander around, rather than shut him up in the ball. He was a baby after all. I told him so and followed him as he cautiously looked around at first, then began picking up energy when he saw that I wasn't going to be mad.

A trainer challenged us when we went out. Cardinal tried out his Ember attack. He spat flame and he looked intrigued and surprised and pleased that he could. By the end of the battle, he was using it quickly and creatively, spitting fire on the grass at Yungoos' so that it was trapped where it was. He looked like he was revelling in his abilities.

We explored some more and took in a lonely Kricketot called Persimmon. She's quiet but apparently she likes to fight. I felt really sorry for her trainer and told her I'd take care of Persimmon. She's mainly keeping to herself right now. I feel sorry for Persimmon too because it must be tough to leave everything you've known behind and join a group of strangers.

We fought a trainer with an Igglybuff and a Ducklett. Cardinal was a champ. He was hit by two jets of Water Gun and he gritted his teeth and persisted through it, Scratching desperately at the Ducklett. He was shaking and shuddering at the end. He clung to me and I rushed him to the Pokemon Center. I've been letting Cardinal and Persimmon wander around outside their Pokeballs. They both seemed to enjoy it. Persimmon followed a little to the side, a bit shy with us, and yet not daring to go too far. Cardinal would range far to look around -- but always within sight -- and come back.

This place feels dangerous. People scurry about, looking wary. Groups of people cluster. The water is so dirty and polluted it's mud-brown. Pokemon jump out at us from any hiding spot.

A Cherubi joined us. His name is Charm. We found him in Seacrest's Secret Garden. He's tough and energetic.

[sinnoh-stories]

2- Fire Hazard

So I’ve been having troubles taming this Chimchar. He's completely against any friendly behavior. I don’t know what happened to him but he’s pretty messed up.

Normally it would take a while to take care of an abused Pokemon but its possible. A lot of time, patience, and treats are involved. I have other calm Mons around to help, and Mom lent me her Gardevoir to help with this particular one. Gardevoir is incredibly good at calming others down, humans included. I only use her for special occasions. But even she can’t get to Chimchar. I’ve put him in isolation until I think of something to do. 

It was odd. A few days ago this kid about my age came to the office. I’d never met him but his greeting was a sly “Hey girl”, and he was a total flirt from there on. Finally he handed me this Pokeball and out came the Chimchar. Immediately it was obvious the poor thing was in distress. The kid told me he’d pay top dollar if I trained him to at least listen to someone for battles. He also stated he didn’t know what happened to him and bought him for a low price. I ignored the obvious scandal. I hope he didn’t lie and just want the Mon off his hands. I told him a week and I’m three days in now with no progress. 

I thought about bringing him to the Solaceon breeders, see if they had any of his kind there. Finding the same species can really help a Pokemon overcome trauma. But I’m not sure even that will work. I’m nervous he’s going to go off on a Pokemon here soon. All others just annoy him. Hera stays close by when I try to train him. I think she can sense his hostility. She’s rarely so alert. 

Mom says I might need to stop trying, let him come around on his own. But I think she’s worried I might get hurt. I don’t blame her.. I am too. He’s little, but also a fire type that knows Ember. And his accuracy is damn good. I have other Pokemon that are younger than he is, and I know he could take Annoying out with one shot, which makes me even more nervous. I want to go track down that kid and give Chimchar back. Its not worth putting off the other’s progress or our safety. 

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

I didn't finish this entry yesterday because I had an abrupt problem up while I was writing. Ironically it was because of the Chimchar, so I'll add to this entry. I was sitting here at my desk, half asleep, when I heard the racket from the back yard. Theres this little shed that I turned into a ‘Safehouse’ for Pokemon that come in and need special attention. Usually one Mon stays there at a time. Obviously this was the only place to put Chimchar and he has slept out there for the three days he’s been here now. All has been fine. He seems happy to be there alone. But I think something spooked him from the forest out back. The shed is only feet away from the tree line. I think he was trying to sleep and another Pokemon passed by, noises included, waking him up. Well at some I guess he chose to try and go after the thing and used his brute force to get out. This was more than likely the sound I heard. 

When I went to see, I found him crouched in the corner of the room, cage broken up and the once clean floor was cracked. The little guy is pretty strong. The door was open behind me, and I got the notion to continue to try and help, and stepped forward. He didn’t like that. He rushed at me, landed a strong Scratch against my arm and shoulder, and ran off into the forest.

Chimchar is gone now. I didn’t try to follow him for many reasons, primarily because I didn’t want to. 

I felt bad after I got over the anger. He didn’t know what was right or wrong. I bet he didn’t even want to hurt me, probably only wanting to defending himself. But I know I couldn’t help him. And with him gone I can finally breathe and get on with other Mons I need to coach. My arm isn't even that bad, it only bled for a few minutes. This also makes me think that he didn't actually want to hurt me. I feel like he could have done a lot worse if he wanted to. Now I have to go home and tell Mom she was right, and show her my ripped up clothes. She won't like either of those things.

[videogamethoughtsandponders]

Pokemon Gen 8

5/6th March 19

I wonder what the bird will be, Blackbird? Unique gender differences again.

Pigeon? (Not like Pidove. One of those really tubby looking ones or streamlined colourful necked ones that look metallic and their individual names which I know escape me xD)

Bluetit as a Flying Grass type? Beautiful little birds. ^-^

Also being both English *and* Scottish I’d love to see a highland coo pokemon! I’ve tried to design one myself months ago and I need to get back to that. And yes, the correct pronunciation is indeed ‘coo’, if it’s Scottish it’s a coo! xD

I think I’m going to draw up a fish and chip pokemon in a newspaper shell xD

And a bagpipe creature… somehow but I have ideas. xD

I know Alola’s gimic was alolan forms which were really cool but if they did a couple new Galar forms I ’d love to see  an Ice/something else Luxray as Lynx’s used to live in Scotland and there is talk of reintroducing them. 

(Ok now I am looking up animals that are indigenous to England and Scotland as I know lots of little birds migrate and live in lots of other countries.)

But Puffins!!! Puffins are so cute! I’ve heard before some would love a puffin pokemon. Water/Flying, Flying/Ice or Water/Ice. (Ice because it is cold here most of the time. xD)

The normal early route poke could be a little badger perhaps?

*GASP* Fire/Normal Red Squirrel!!! (it seems I’m coming up with more ideas for my own creatures to draw than the new region. xD)

I know we have only one mildly venomous snake, the adder but looking it up three other snakes live in the uk too. Poison/Normal type? I’ve seen a wild adder in the lake district before it slithered away into the tall grass. (I just realised what I said and makes that encounter even better. XD) They seem to have amazing piercing red eyes too. :D

A Flying/Fighting bird of prey perhaps. :o I know we had Talonflame which is very peregrine like but other birds are available. :D

Of course a Water/Dragon Nessie type poke would be pawsome!

As for fossils I know that Iguanadons used to live here so that’s cool :D Grass/Rock if we’re sticking with the always part rock type thing. And Stegosaurus’ I think :D They are my favourite.

And I’m on board with a dragon eeveelution. Dragons are heavily linked with medevial Britain. Maybe a Steel/Dragon? Ooo! Or two counterpart pokemon a  Dragon/Poison dragon and a knight that’s maybe Steel/Fairy? *looks up fairy/poison typing weakness..* ah… Dragon/Poison dragon and a Fairy (but armoured looking) knight.

 I don't know how much to the 'armoured'  pokemon rumour there is but I immediately thought of Infernape, maybe it's because people keep barking on about Sinnoh remakes, but I keep thinking of my little Chimmi Chimchar when looking at Grookey. Armoured Infernape, Torterra and Empoleon would look pretty cool I think.

Wasn't there a fan game that had armour for pokemon? :D

I thought either yesterday or the day before I wonder if there will ever be a 'scared' status condition from ghost or dark types. Not sure if it would add anything. Maybe the heal thing for that could be a soft blanket? ^-^ Like heals for burns or awakenings for sleep.

Actually, new idea! :D Maybe scared pokemon could also still be put asleep, the only status condition that allows two at the same time. Which would be sleep. The two would work together in the that pokemon would then have nightmares that cause them to lash out doing damage to either themselves or possibly opponents?

[pmd-heroxpartner-central]

Because of You Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Desperation

Sorry this took so long kept forgetting to upload it :P

Chloe was shocked beyond belief.

“Excuse me?!”

Chimchar didn't seem to hear her. He was obviously in too much shock.

“Dad wh...What are you doing here?!” He cried.

“I was about to ask you the same thing!” Infernape scowled.

Chimchar backed off a little.

“I…I’m part of an exploration team now, and there’s nothing you can do about it!” He declared in a determined voice.

Chloe looked confused, what was this all about? She decided to try and get some answers.

“Erm excuse me, but I don’t quite understand. What does Chimchar mean by…?”

But before Chloe could finish, Infernape gave her a dangerous look.

“You stay out of this!”

Chloe immediately backed off, Chimchar wasn't amused at all.

“Hey! You can’t talk to my friend like that!”

“And what did I say about conversing let alone making friends with non-fire types?!” growled Infernape.

Chimchar shrank down to the ground, Chloe looked even more shocked than before.

Only allowed to make friends with fire types? How unfair is that? She thought.

Infernape then roughly grabbed the Relic Fragment that his son always wore around his neck, making the poor Pokémon gag a little.

“I see you actually managed to find this piece of junk,” he snarled

Chimchar just looked away.

“It’s not junk,” he muttered bitterly.

“You really are a stubborn child aren’t you?” said Infernape sternly. “I’ve specifically forbidden you to join an exploration team, and one day you weren’t in your room. I’ve looked everywhere, but recently I happen to overhear someone talking about a so called Team Firestorm, and they just happen to mention that a Chimchar with a scar was a member. I had a feeling it was you and it looks like I was right.”

Infernape let go of the Relic Fragment releasing Chimchar causing him to topple over.

“Do you know how long I’ve looked for you?!” he exclaimed.

Chimchar just glared.

“For what?” he asked icily. So you can keep blaming me for what happened?!”

Chloe was stunned, Where did that come from? She had never heard him speak like that before, not even to an outlaw. Chloe glared at Infernape.

“Excuse me, but what's going on here? Why has it taken you over a year to come looking in Treasure Town for him!?” she asked.

Infernape glared back and swatted Chloe away as if she was an annoying Combee.

“That is none of your concern!”

Chimchar hurried to Chloe's side.

“Are you okay, Chloe?”

“Yeah, I'm fine,” said Chloe getting back on her feet. Her tail twitched in anger. How dare this Infernape harass her best friend like this. Infernape glared at Chimchar.

“And don’t you dare talk back to me like that! You know very well that if you hadn’t disobeyed us and….”

“SHUT UP!!!!!”

Chloe literally jumped away from Chimchar, startled by that sudden outburst. She studied Chimchar's face and saw a hurt look in his eyes he started clenching his fists. Chloe knew that what Infernape just said really got to him. She's never seen him like this. Normally Chimchar was a shy pokemon. He got more confident over the past year but still needed some coaxing now and again. A whimper from Chimchar snapped Chloe out of her thoughts.

“Don't you think I know....” he muttered. “Don't you think I know it was my fault!? I've lived with the guilt for eight years now! I don't need you to remind me!!!”

Chloe felt her heart break as she watched Chimchar desperately try to hold back his tears, but failing miserably.

“You just won't let me live it down!!! I won't let you make my life a misery anymore!”

Infernape scowled,

“Come on,” he said sternly. “We're going home.”

Infernape tried to take Chimchar's arm but he jumped back.

“Back off!”

Then Chimchar just ran off towards Treasure Town. Infernape sighed angrily and glared at Chloe.

“You see what you did?!”

“No, what did I do?!” exclaimed, Chloe. Infernape was getting on her very last nerve, and who ever knew Chloe can vouch that she hasn't got many to spare. Just then Chatot arrived at the scene, looking quite bewildered.

“Goodness gracious, what’s all this about? I was on my way to let you know of a Challenge Request, only to nearly get run over by a seemingly upset Chimchar.”

“Yeah, well you can thank Mr. Loud-mouth for that one.” said Chloe, “And for once I'm not talking about Loudred.”

Infernape glared at Chloe for that remark.

“Maybe you should explain what happened from the beginning,” suggested Chatot.

Chloe explained everything to Chatot, about Infernape, and about his “attitude”. Chatot nodded.

“Hmm, I see, then we have a bit of a predicament.”

“I am taking my son home! And you non fire types better not try and stop me!” boomed Infernape, making the other two pokemon jump.

Chatot hopped over to him.

“Now, now there’s no need to be rude. If you feel the need to take him home then we can’t stop you, but he seemed quite distressed when he dashed by me so at least let him have some time alone.”

Infernape scowled but nodded.

“Fine, we will leave in the morning, it's getting late anyway.”

With that he went on his way.

“Chatot there's gotta be something we can do!” asked Chloe feeling crestfallen by this.

Chatot looked sympathetic.

“If Infernape is Chimchar’s father then he still has authority over him, I'm sorry.”

“But it took Infernape at least a year to come here looking for him!” cried Chloe. “What kind of father is that!? I may not remember my parents, but I'm certain they wouldn't have given up!”

Chatot sighed.

“I can't imagine how you must be feeling Chloe, but Chimchar is still young. In fact if I was in charge of the guild instead of Guildmaster Wigglytuff I would have asked for proof of parent's consent if applicants were around your age. But you know what the Guildmaster's like: accepting anyone who comes through the door. I only go along with it because he's the one who has the final say. Even if Chimchar's father came while you were still in the Guild, even Wigglytuff would've had to meet his demands.”

Chloe sighed sadly,

“That doesn't make it right.”

“Well needless to say I don't think you two will be able to do that Challenge Request right now so I'll just let Aggron know that he'll have to come back another time. I'll be sure to explain the situation to him.”

Chloe nodded.

“Thanks, Chatot.”

Later Chloe went in search for Chimchar, who had not returned yet which worried her. Chloe had a good idea where he could be so she headed for the beach, and sure enough Chimchar was sitting on the sand, watching the Krabby blow bubbles, but not even that seemed to be cheering him up right now. This worried Chloe even more because this scene always brought a smile to her partner’s face. Chloe felt sorry for Chimchar. It was obvious from the look of his eyes that he had been crying.

Chloe slowly walked up to the little pokemon. Chimchar glanced up.

“Leave me alone,” He moaned.

Chloe felt a little hurt by this but tried put her paw on his shoulder for comfort.

“Chimchar,...”

“I said go away!” shouted Chimchar, slapping Chloe's paw away. The outburst scared away some of the Krabby.

Chloe stepped back then glared, her tail twitching

“Fine, Let your dad take you home see if I care!”

Chloe stormed off back to Sharpedo Bluff. Once inside, Chloe kicked over the treasure Bag in frustration, causing it's contents to spill out. One item caught Chloe's eye. It was the Red Silk she and Chimchar found in Midnight Forest. It reminded her of Chimchar as it had the power to boost fire-type moves. Chloe picked it up and stared at the crimson fabric. Sighing sadly, Chloe sat down on her straw bed.

“Oh man I really goofed this time. I was supposed to try and cheer Chimchar up but I probably just things worse.”

Chloe laid down and clutched the silk with her paws. She was usually very optimistic but it wasn't that easy right now. She was about to be separated from her partner and best friend because of some selfish, stubborn father. It wasn't fair. Chloe started feeling her eyelids grow heavy, but she didn't want to fall asleep until Chimchar came back. After a while however Chloe gave in and fell asleep.

KER-KLUNK!

Chloe woke up to a loud noise coming from just a few feet away. She groggily sat up and rubbed her eyes, muttering a curse to who or what ever woke her from her slumber. It was now really dark outside. Chloe gazed in the direction of the noise and was shocked to see Chimchar, Treasure Bag in hand as he was picking up a wonder orb that seemingly fell out of the Treasure Bag that the Chimp Pokemon already had over his shoulder.

“Chimchar,...what are you doing?” asked Chloe almost afraid to hear the answer.

Chimchar looked away, placing the orb back into the Treasure Bag where it belonged.

“I'm getting out of here,” he said simply.

This made Chloe sit bolt up right.

“What?!”

“I can't stay here. I can't let my dad take over my life again!” moaned Chimchar

“And where in the world do you plan on going?!” cried Chloe.

“Anywhere but here,” said Chimchar, making his way for the steps.

“So you were gonna leave just like that?!” yelled Chloe “Without me?!”

Chimchar turned to face Chloe.

“I didn't think you'd want to leave here just because of me.” he said sadly

“What?! Do you even know me at all?!” cried Chloe actually managing to get a chuckle in. She walked up to Chimchar. “But still...think about what you're about to do. You're gonna worry everyone if you just leave without saying anything. Come on, I thought I was meant to be the hasty one.”

“I don't have a choice,” groaned Chimchar.

“Don't give me that! Of course you have a choice. Look, if we just talk to you're dad tommorow...”

“There's no talking to him Chloe!” Chimchar cut off. “If I stay that's the end of our team! I don't want that and I'm sure you don't want that either!”

Chloe sighed.

Running away would also mean the end of our team!” yelled Chloe “So I fail to see your logic. Besides running away is not the answer. It's never the answer!”

“Yeah well it did good until he found me.” muttered Chimchar.

Chloe looked confused.

“What?”

The look on Chimchar's face told Chloe that he just let something slip. He then made a dash upstairs. Chloe sighed testily and ran up in pursuit.

“Chimchar get back here!” she called as if trying to reprimand a disobedient child.

Chloe made it up the steps to see Chimchar already nearly half way across Treasure Town.

“Chimchar, wait for me will ya!” Chloe yelled running as fast as she could to the retreating figure. She managed to grab Chimchar's arm just as they reached the watering hole.

“Let me go!!” He yelled.

“For crying out loud, Chimchar you're gonna wake everyone up,” Chloe growled. Then she released a sigh.

“Alright, fine If you're gonna be stubborn then go, but I'm coming with you.”

Chimchar gave Chloe a surprised look.

“But...”

“Buts are for sitting on.” Chloe cut off, folding her arms. “So, are we leaving or aren't we?”

Chimchar thought for a moment then nodded.

“Right, let's go.”

And the duo went down the path away from Treasure Town. Chloe could hardly believe she was doing this. But there was no way she was gonna let Chimchar go anywhere on his own. Chloe took one last look at their home town not knowing when or if she'll see it or any of it's inhabitants again.

“Chloe, you coming?!” Chimchar called breaking Chloe's train of thought.

“Yeah, I'm coming!” She called back and followed Chimchar to wherever they end up.

To Be Continued...

[littlegnome145]

Pls do continue the story if u can!!!

1,593 words

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 (here)

It was the dead of night, not a soul was in sight. Everything was peaceful, quiet.

Chimchar was sitting at the edge of a hill, having snuck out of the cave him, Wartortle and Turtwig had been for the last couple of days. Last time he checked, both of them seemed to be asleep. This was, finally, his opportunity to get some time alone, to think

This was his opportunity to run away.

It was certainly tempting. He could go right then and there and never come back, by the time his team woke up he'd be long gone- they'd probably never find him. It was what he had wanted from the start, to be alone and grow strong, independent.

He could be free of those annoying pokémon he had been stuck with for so long-

And yet, he just couldn't seem to take the first step.

It was a strange situation, one that Chimchar for the life of him couldn't even explain it himself. For some reason, everytime he gets close to leaving, his stupid head kept messing with him.

Reminding him of the freezing cold, the snow stuck in his fur, his fingers numb and red, a beast much bigger than himself overpowering him in battle.

How it felt like to fall into unconsciousness, thinking that he'd never wake up again.

Which was stupid. He knew it was stupid. All he needed to do is go anywhere but the mountain and he'd be fine.

And yet he was still frozen in the same spot.

Chimchar was very familiar to 'fight or flight', especially with the fight portion of it. When he faces an enemy he gives it everything he's got, with as many punches, flames and insults as possible. He also knows, sometimes, when the smarter thing to do is to just book it. Those two actions at least have the possibility of being a smart move in battle, to help him achieve his goal, wether that's exp or just plain survival.

So this whole 'freezing in the same spot' thing? Yeah, it was starting to get annoying. And fast.

Freezing like a deer in the headlights, aside from being just plain embarrassing, was absolutely useless in a fight. If he doesn't find some way to stop this he'll just become some weak target against other pokémon.

He had to find some way to solve this issue soon, or else-

"Oh there you are."

Chimchar almost falls down the hill with surprise, only coming out uncathed because someone had grabbed him with their snout.

Turtwig.

"Oh, sorry, man. Did I scare you?" the turtle asks shortly after letting the fire type go.

"No way!" he replies annoyed, and somewhat embarrassed, "you just surprised me is all."

"Sure."

They stay quiet for little while, everything suddenly very awkward.

Their bond was complicated, to say the least. The two prevolves had known eachother for most of their lives, being raised in the same lab, but they had never been close. Not really. They mostly had to just put up with one another, and were content with being unimportant in eachother's lives.

Lots had changed in the past couple of days, however, with the whole mountain fiasco.

That entire day seemed like a fever dream to Chinchar. Him once again running away, but this time to a more dangerous location.

Facing that snow creature, the fire type had been sure he was done for. Heck, he was even somewhat convinced that the other two would not follow him- either because Squirtle wouldn't know where to look, or because they wouldn't bother- and yet he was wrong.

He had survived, and not just that- not only had Squirtle and Turtwig followed him, they had their lives put in danger because of it. Which just made everything even weirder for Chimchar.

He found the two pokémon absolutely insufferable. Staying with them directly made him weaker, especially with the wannabe-parental figure interrupting every fight the fire type was in whenever he got as much of a scratch. He openly talked about hoe much he hated them, how he wanted them dead.

But actually having to face that possibility head on, in real life, was much different than he had imagined.

He disliked them. That hadn't really changed, they were annoying. But he didn't want them to die, not really. Especially if it was his fault. It was one of those things you say, but never actually expect to see it happen.

Squirtle seemed invincible, in a way. He was a level 98, only something really strong would be able to actually take him down. And Turtwig was always protected by the blue turtle, so he was safe too.

So to have all three of them almost bite the dust on the same day, on the same circumstances, because of him?

He didn't like that. He hated the fact that he had to be saved, that they were the ones who ended up saving him-

He hated how vulnerable the whole situation had made him.

" -I'm surprised I was even able to find you."

Oh had Turtwig been talking? He wasn't paying attention.

"Huh?"

The grass type simply sighs and repeats himself.

"I said, I thought you had already left. I'm surprised you're still here."

Oh.

Chimchar sits down, facing anywhere but the other prevolve.

"I have my reasons."

Turtwig sits beside him, but in a considerable distance.

"Which are?"

"None of your business."

Ever since the turtle had properly woken up, he had been considerably more talkative to Chimchar, which quickly became bothersome. Especially after their conversation with Wartortle, which was another whole can of worms the fire type did not want to think about at the moment.

"Well, I'm glad you didn't leave yet. At least not without telling us. It'd be kinda difficult to tell if you left on your own free will or if you were in trouble."

Chimchar doesn't respond. He doesn't really know how to, especially since he's aware that Turtwig is not just talking about his past attempts at running away.

' I was a bad guardian to both of you, and for that I sincerely apologize. There is no way for me to make up for not even knowing your names.'

'If you want to stay, I'll try my best to train and take care of you. If you want to leave, that's fine too, but I do encourage you to find someone older who can help you, guide you. Facing the world alone at your age usually doesn't end well.'

A decision. One that both of them had to make, either on their own or together. The choice to either leave or stay.

The prevolves hadn't really talked about it yet, mostly because Chimchar always ran away from any indication of the conversation taking place. He didn't want to acknowledge what it all meant- that the guy who was so adament on keeping them safe didn't even know what they were called, that Turtwig considered them close enough to discuss continuing their adventure together. It was all too confusing, and the fire type would much rather just bury it all up and not think about it until the day he died.

"I mean, it's difficult right?" Turtwig starts, "it's a big decision. And I'm still hurt about him not even knowing our names until now. It always seemed like he was trying to be a father figure, but he doesn't even know who we are."

"He's more like a bother figure." Chimchar mumbles in reply. The turtle can't help but chuckle a bit.

Once again, silence fills the air, but this time it's broken by the chimp.

"Why are you even telling me this? It's not like we're friends."

He can't help but notice Turtwig deflate a little, but the grass type doesn't seem surprised

"Aren't we though?"

Were they?

It'd be so easy to just be firm and respond with 'no'. Fill the response with a few insults while he's at it, but it feels a little wrong somehow.

The turtle continues, not bothering to look the other prevolve.

"I don't really have anyone else to talk to about this."

The conversation doesn't go any further than that. The two just sit quietly in resignation.

It wasn't like they knew all that much about eachother either.

When they go back to the cave, all they are met with is an awake and worried Wartortle, whose relief at seeing them is so obvious it stung.

The three of them don't talk about the incident for the rest of the night.

Xx

It takes two more days for Chimchar to make his decision.

"If I stay, you'll actually train me properly this time? You won't be overprotective? You'll teach me how to actually get stronger?"

It was so sudden that it took Wartortle off guard. The surprise is quickly shaken off however, and the older pokémon nods.

The fire type wanted to get stronger. And it wasn't everyday you would find someone with a level as high as that turtle's, much less have that someone be willing to teach.

If becoming the most powerful version of himself took having to endure someone as annoying as Wartortle, he'd do it. For now.

"I'll teach you everything I know."

Turtwig simply watches the interaction from afar, surprised when both pokémon turn to him right after, seemingly asking wether he had come to a decision yet as well.

He sighs, but doesn't seem as determined as the other two.

"Sure, why not."

[wild-ditto-appeared]

Ditto was worried about him. Angry Dragon Man was jumpier than usual. It hadn't meant to scare him.

I'll sleep when I feel like it.

Ditto was tempted to answer his questions. In all honesty, Ditto hadn't been eating. Or drinking. Due to its dehydration, its body couldn't produce more of that transparent, near-lavender mucus that usually covered Ditto's body, making it more sticky and stripping it of its sense of smell. As a result, Ditto had dust clinging to its body, both inside and out.

It was not comfortable.

Maybe Ditto had no place telling him what he should or shouldn't do. Sleeping was hard for some humans, after all. Even some Pokemon preferred to stay awake at night, although there were plenty of others who needed far more time asleep than anyone else. Komala was the first Pokemon that came to mind, Snorlax the second.

It had nearly run out of sticky notes. Dragon Man was tired. And here in the vents, Ditto would surely starve to death if it were going to wait for Dragon Man to go back to bed. He'd been there since the early morning, after all, and the sun had set a long time ago.

Ditto hesitated. Should... it really do this?

For humans, sleep is very important. They aren't as resilient as Pokemon are because they weren't made for battle.

Yes. It should do this.

Ditto slipped out of the vents, contorting its body to fit easily through the thin vent slits and touch down on the ground. It Transformed!!! into a Munna, hoping to replicate its abilities.

Psychic powers were difficult to master--the most difficult of them all, actually, because Ditto could shift its entire body, but not its brain. Fire-type moves, for instance, were easy to replicate because the physical body, the vessel made the fire, like a Chimchar's belly or Tepig's tail and nose. That's how it was with most Pokemon. But with Psychic-type moves, it was entirely different. Those attacks came not only from the body, but from the mind. They had to have a latent psychic ability to be able to use that kind of power. Sometimes, even humans could wield it.

Ditto was not a Psychic-type, nor was it one of many Pokemon who could use Psychic-type moves despite not being one. Munna was a Psychic-type, however. It had never tried replicating a Psychic-type move up until now, so there was only one real way to find out.

But... Ditto didn't move. Not yet. Dragon Man had to say yes first, or at the very least acknowledge Ditto, or sit down, or be someplace safe where he wouldn't get hurt. Hypnosis could be very potent, after all.

It was a late night in the office. Angry Dragon Man was still there... Ditto could hear and see him clacking away at his computer. Ditto was worried.

It slipped a note through the cracks and rattled the vent a little bit to get his attention.

"Z Z Z ?"

Ditto hoped Angry Dragon Man got the message.

Send “Can’t sleep?” to catch my muse awake in the middle of the night // @wild-ditto-appeared

No, the vent suddenly rattling didn't scare him. It didn't make him nearly jump out of his chair mid-email, standing and expecting something to come flying out at him. It didn't do anything of the sort, you must've imagined it.

Something did come flying out of the vent, he supposed. Just nothing threatening, like Kaiba expected. Another note. Should he even bother to pick it up when he had work to do? Ugh. He was already standing, might as well make it look like he meant to. Kaiba picked up the note.

Oh. The blob just wanted to know if he was going to sleep, probably. Ugh.

"How are you still in there?" Kaiba said, as opposed to answering the question. "Have you not moved from that spot? What are you eating, dust?" Maybe the creature was moving, to be fair. It's not like Kaiba had a tracking chip on it to know where it went in the vents, though he really should install some cameras in there. Hm. Yet another thing he could work on tonight.

Speaking of. "I'll sleep when I feel like it," he grumbled, belated.