Chapter 44: Meeting the Mysterious Pokemon

Julian's triumphant declaration was met with an unexpected sight. Before him floated a small, mouse-like Pokémon with a body of whitish-pink hue. Its surprised expression quickly transformed into a mischievous smile, and it placed its tiny hands over its mouth in a playful manner. The creature then turned to face Julian directly.

**Julian:** "Who could have thought that a Mew would follow someone on its own?"

The revelation left Julian astonished, as he beheld the rare and legendary Pokémon, Mew, which had chosen to follow him on his journey.

Mew continued to wear its mischievous smile as it approached Julian, circling around him before settling onto his shoulder. Julian couldn't help but be utterly astonished by Mew's behavior. He was well aware of Mew's reclusive nature; it typically avoided revealing itself to humans, and if it did, it did so with utmost caution.

Julian understood that Mew was an incredibly intelligent Pokémon, possibly even surpassing human intelligence, and it possessed an innate sense of self-preservation. Normally, Mew would be extremely cautious about revealing itself to humans, knowing the risk of capture or exploitation.

However, Mew's complete lack of self-defense and its friendly approach left Julian in a state of disbelief. It was a testament to the unique bond he shared with his Pokémon and the trust Mew had placed in him, a bond that transcended the boundaries of ordinary trainer and Pokémon relationships.

Julian extended a piece of candy to Mew, who eagerly accepted it and began munching on it with delight. The sweet treat seemed to enhance the playful demeanor of the legendary Pokémon.

Mew then gracefully fluttered over to Julian's other Pokémon, extending friendly greetings. Their interactions were filled with warmth and camaraderie, as they had already met before and established a bond of friendship. 

However, Mew's playful nature took an amusing turn when it suddenly unleashed a small Dark Pulse towards Gengar. The unexpected attack caused Gengar to jump in surprise and discomfort, and it promptly began voicing its complaints to Mew. In response, Mew simply laughed, displaying its mischievous sense of humor.

Julian couldn't help but join in the laughter, appreciating the playful exchange between his Pokémon. It seemed that Mew had decided to have a bit of fun and get its revenge on Gengar for its initial scare.

Julian couldn't help but wonder about Mew's uncharacteristic decision to follow him. It was indeed unusual for such a reclusive and enigmatic Pokémon to take an interest in a human without a clear reason. He decided to consult the System for possible explanations.

**Julian:** "Why is it following me? It's very weird for it to just start following me without any reason. System, can you think of any possibilities?"

The System provided a speculative answer:

**System:** "System has speculated that it might be following the Host because of the Omniforce surrounding you. Even though Mew cannot use it, having the DNA of every Pokémon has allowed it to sense the presence of the Omniforce around you."

Julian nodded in understanding, piecing together the connection between the Omniforce and Mew's interest in him.

With Mew happily playing with his other Pokémon, Julian contemplated the possibility of inviting it to join his team.

**Julian:** "Will it join my team if I ask it? Well, I should give it a try by asking."

Julian decided that it was worth exploring the idea of having Mew officially become a member of his team and part of his journey.

Julian called out to Mew, capturing its attention as it turned to face him. With genuine intent, Julian made his proposal:

**Julian:** "Mew, will you come with us and be my partner?"

Mew responded with a smile, its playful and enigmatic nature shining through. It made no verbal reply, instead returning to its joyful interaction with Julian's other Pokémon.

Julian couldn't help but chuckle at Mew's response, finding it somewhat unexpected. He mused to himself:

**Julian:** "Well, that was not what I expected. I thought it would either reject or agree, but to just leave it like that... Well, it didn't say no, so I might still have a chance."

The enigmatic Mew had left the door open, and Julian remained hopeful that it might eventually choose to join him on his journey as a trusted partner.

Julian decided to put aside the matter of Mew for the time being and focused on planning his training schedule for the next day. Afterward, he settled in for the night, allowing his Pokémon to enjoy their freedom.

When he awoke the following morning, Julian noticed that Mew had once again disappeared. However, he didn't dwell on it too much, understanding the unpredictable nature of the legendary Pokémon.

Julian began his day by feeding his Pokémon their morning breakfast. Today, he had an ambitious plan in mind—he intended to venture deeper into the forest. Locals from a nearby town had spoken of a formidable Pokémon residing in the heart of the forest, and Julian saw it as the perfect challenge for his team. With no knowledge of the creature's identity or strength, he was prepared for a thrilling and challenging encounter as he ventured deeper into the forest's uncharted territory.

Julian's curiosity about the unknown Pokémon in the forest was piqued. He hoped that it would be a formidable opponent, perfect for pushing Pidgeotto and Ivysaur closer to their evolutions. As he prepared to venture deeper into the forest, he expressed his thoughts:

**Julian:** "I wonder what kind of Pokémon it is. I hope it's powerful enough for either Pidgeotto or Ivysaur. They are very close to evolution, and it might take place any time."

With determination, Julian called his Pokémon back into their Poké Balls after their meal. Ready for the journey ahead, he hopped onto his bike and skillfully maneuvered through the forest. His bike's exceptional grip and control allowed him to navigate the challenging terrain with ease, dodging trees and maneuvering around obstacles as he delved deeper into the unexplored depths of the forest.

Julian appreciated the wisdom of his decision to purchase the bike, especially as he continued venturing deeper into the forest. The rugged terrain would have made walking a cumbersome task, but the bike provided him with both speed and agility.

As he pedaled through the forest's heart, Julian noticed a wider variety of Pokémon species than he had encountered closer to civilization. Caterpie, Metapod, Weedle, Kakuna, and Beedrill were common sights, along with the Pidgey line—Pidgey, Pidgeotto, and Pidgeot. He even encountered Pokémon from regions beyond Kanto, including Hoothoot and Noctowl, Spinarak and Ariados, among others. The forest's rich diversity fascinated Julian as he continued his journey, eager to discover what lay deeper within.

Julian's surprise at encountering Pokémon from regions beyond Kanto was evident. The forest's rich biodiversity and the presence of species not typically found in the Kanto region intrigued him.

**Julian:** "Looks like the people of Kanto are really lazy when it comes to venturing deep into the forest and searching for Pokémon. I should definitely inform Professor Oak about this. He'll be eager to learn more about the diverse Pokémon population here."

With thoughts of relaying this newfound knowledge to Professor Oak, Julian continued his journey into the forest, eager to explore further and uncover the mysteries it held.

Julian's journey through the forest led him to its deepest recesses, and what he found there left him surprised. Instead of the ferocious and powerful Pokémon he had anticipated, the area seemed populated primarily by Caterpie and other low-level Pokémon. The lack of formidable opponents puzzled him, but it didn't take long for him to discern the reason.

In the midst of this seemingly mild environment, Julian spotted a Teddiursa happily playing with a Caterpie. The sight instantly provided him with insight into the situation. It appeared that Teddiursa's presence in the area had kept more aggressive and powerful Pokémon at bay, creating a sanctuary for weaker Pokémon to thrive without threat.

Julian took in the scene, understanding why the forest's innermost depths were teeming with these less formidable Pokémon.

Julian quickly pieced together the situation as he observed the Teddiursa playing in the area. He surmised that where there was a Teddiursa, an Ursaring was likely to be close by. Ursaring were known for their fierce protective instincts when it came to their offspring, and this explained the absence of more powerful Pokémon in the area. The Ursaring had likely driven them away to ensure the safety of its cub.

However, his thoughts were interrupted by a sudden and thunderous roar emanating from behind a thicket. As the bushes parted, a colossal Pokémon came into view—a massive, 1.8-meter-tall Ursaring. The Pokémon's imposing presence was impossible to ignore, and it regarded Julian with a fierce and angry glare.

Julian knew he had to be cautious in the presence of this formidable Ursaring, which had likely perceived him as a potential threat to its territory and offspring.

Julian couldn't help but acknowledge the reputation of Ursaring for being fiercely violent and overprotective. The mere presence of a potential threat had already stirred the Pokémon's anger.

**Julian:** "No wonder they say that Ursaring is very violent and overprotective. I didn't even touch its baby, and it's already angry."

Recognizing that he needed to confront the Ursaring, Julian summoned his Ivysaur. The moment Ivysaur appeared, Ursaring's anger intensified, and it charged forward with a powerful Hammer Arm attack, determined to protect its territory and cub.

Julian swiftly issued a command to Ivysaur:

**Julian:** "Ivysaur, use Grass Knot!"

Responding to Julian's telepathic command, Ivysaur manipulated the grass around it, creating several Grass Knots on the ground. Ursaring, blinded by rage and not noticing the traps, tripped over them and crashed to the ground, momentarily incapacitated by the unexpected obstacle.

Julian wasted no time in giving Ivysaur its next command: "Razor Leaves!"

Ivysaur complied, generating a formidable spinning blade composed of countless small leaves. The massive, razor-sharp attack struck Ursaring head-on, sending the powerful Pokémon rolling and crashing into a tree. Although it suffered damage from the assault, Ursaring managed to rise to its feet, its body bearing scratches and dust from the ordeal.

Julian couldn't help but acknowledge Ursaring's resilience, realizing that it had a robust defense to withstand such a powerful Razor Leaves attack.

The Ursaring, further provoked by the hit it had taken, climbed the nearby tree with a furious determination. With a powerful leap, it descended upon Ivysaur, launching a barrage of Fury Swipes in a flurry of quick, slashing strikes.

Julian keenly observed Ursaring's attack strategy and recognized that it had not attacked from the air, a tactical decision that displayed some level of intelligence on Ursaring's part. However, Julian remained confident in Ivysaur's abilities.

**Julian:** "Looks like it's not a complete fool and is not attacking from the air. Nice try, but it's completely useless."

With a strategic command, Julian directed Ivysaur to counter Ursaring's approach. Ivysaur responded by launching a Leech Seed at Ursaring. The seed rapidly unraveled into vines that ensnared Ursaring, causing its energy to be drained quickly. The Ursaring fell to the ground, seemingly incapacitated.

Julian believed the battle might be over, but to his surprise, Ursaring made a determined recovery. It charged toward Ivysaur with increased speed, its claws glowing with energy as it prepared to use Slash. The battle was far from over, and Julian knew he needed to adapt quickly to this fierce opponent.

Julian quickly realized that Ursaring had activated an ability, enhancing both its power and speed. Recognizing the increased threat, he decided to counter with a strategic move.

**Julian:** "Looks like it has activated its ability, raising its power and speed."

With a swift command, Julian directed Ivysaur to use Vine Whip to propel itself into the air, narrowly evading Ursaring's Slash attack by a mere inch. In mid-air, Ivysaur unleashed a powerful barrage of Razor Leaves, sending the sharp projectiles directly at Ursaring.

The Razor Leaves struck Ursaring with force, causing it to recoil and stumble backward, visibly affected by the attack. Julian's strategic maneuver had allowed Ivysaur to both evade danger and land a powerful blow on their formidable opponent.

The battle between Ivysaur and Ursaring had reached a critical moment as Ursaring gathered energy for a powerful Hyper Beam attack. Julian, quick to react, issued a command to Ivysaur.

**Julian:** "Ivysaur, use Solar Beam!"

Ivysaur responded, harnessing energy from the sun and building it up for a Solar Beam attack. Simultaneously, Ursaring unleashed its Hyper Beam, creating a massive explosion as the two powerful moves collided.

After the smoke cleared, both Pokémon remained standing, but it was clear that Ursaring had been severely drained by the exchange. The formidable Pokémon, having expended all its energy on the last attack, struggled to maintain its stance and eventually knelt to the ground, unable to continue the fight. On the other hand, Ivysaur had wisely used Synthesis to recharge its energy, ensuring it was ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Julian had been prepared to conclude the battle, but everything came to a sudden halt when he saw Teddiursa appear before Ursaring, determined to protect its mother. Ursaring, though initially aggressive, now seemed worried, and it was clear that Teddiursa's presence had a significant impact on it.

Teddiursa's resolute gaze, filled with determination, seemed to convey a message: it would stand its ground and protect its mother, no matter what. Julian found himself in an awkward position, feeling like the aggressor even though Ursaring had initiated the battle. After a sigh of resignation, Julian decided to abandon the fight, realizing that the situation had taken an unexpected turn.

Respecting the bond between Ursaring and Teddiursa, Julian chose not to press further and instead focused on the harmony and protection they shared as a family.

Julian decided to call off the battle, recognizing the delicate situation involving Ursaring and Teddiursa. He called Ivysaur back, and Ivysaur, understanding the decision, nodded in agreement. They both understood that there were more important things than winning a battle, especially when it came to protecting family bonds.

As Julian and Ivysaur prepared to leave, something unexpected happened. Ivysaur began to glow with a radiant light, a clear sign that it was evolving. Julian watched with relief and anticipation as his loyal Ivysaur underwent a transformation.

**Julian:** "Looks like the battle was enough for him to evolve."

Julian felt a sense of accomplishment as Ivysaur evolved, and he looked forward to the new abilities and potential that Venusaur, Ivysaur's evolved form, would bring to their journey.

Ivysaur had completed its evolution, now standing as a mighty Venusaur with enhanced size and power. Julian was eager to see Venusaur's new capabilities, and he promptly requested the system to display Venusaur's updated stats.

**Julian:** "System, show Venusaur's stats."

The information appeared on the screen:

**Status - Venusaur**

- Level: 40

- Age: 2.5 years

- State: Happy

- Bond: 99%

- HP: 110

- Attack: 130

- Defense: 110

- Sp. Atk: 150

- Sp. Def: 150

- Speed: 80

- Move Set: Tackle, Growl, Leech Seed, Vine Whip, Sleep Powder, Poison Powder, Razor Leaves, Toxic, Sludge Bomb, Veno Shock, Seed Bomb, Grass Knot, Giga Drain, Leaf Storm, Energy Ball, Solar Beam, Grassy Terrain, Petal Dance

- Ability: Overgrow (unlocked), Chlorophyll (unlocked)

**Julian:** "Some new moves, and he has leveled up more than once. Must be because of all the experience he was storing before evolution."

Julian was pleased with Venusaur's growth, and he knew that having such a formidable Pokémon on his team would greatly benefit their journey

.Julian, recognizing that the battle had taken its toll on Ursaring and wanting to respect the bond between Ursaring and Teddiursa, decided to leave the area. He called Venusaur back into its Poké Ball and began to make his way out of the forest. Teddiursa and Ursaring watched as he departed, their expressions a mix of curiosity and relief, perhaps grateful that the confrontation had come to an end.