Chapter 92 - First Pokemon In Hoenn

As Julian woke up at Professor Birch's lab, he prepared to resume his journey. Stepping out of his room, he was met with the sight of Ash, May, Joshua, and Professor Birch gathered around three Pokémon: Treecko, Torchic, and Mudkip. It was a significant moment as May, on her first day of becoming a trainer, was about to choose her very first Pokémon.

Ash spotted Julian and enthusiastically called him over to share in the moment, saying, "Julian, come here! See these Pokémon. They look so cool."

Julian approached Ash and affectionately patted Pikachu on the head, pleased to see that Pikachu had fully recovered. Ash confirmed that Pikachu was indeed doing well.

Julian joined the group surrounding the three starter Pokémon. As he observed them, he also noticed May, who was looking at him with curiosity, unaware of his identity. The interaction marked the beginning of a new adventure with a group of aspiring trainers in the Hoenn region.

Julian bid farewell to Professor Birch, saying, "Professor, I'll be leaving then."

Birch responded, "Okay, take care of yourself."

Ash, still eager to join Julian on his journey, inquired, "Can I join you?"

Julian reiterated, "As I said, we'll split up from here."

Julian then took his leave, with Ash understanding and not pressing the matter. He turned his attention to May, who was ready to make her choice. May chose Torchic, just as she did in the anime, marking the beginning of her own exciting journey as a Pokémon trainer.

Julian contemplated his next steps as he traveled along the road.

Julian thought, 'The closest town here is Oldale Town, but it doesn't have a gym. The nearest gym is in Petalburg City. First, I'll visit Oldale Town to restock some materials, then go and challenge the gym in Petalburg City.'

With his plan set, he continued on his journey. Upon reaching Oldale Town, he found it to be a quaint and peaceful place, with only a few houses and a Pokémon Mart in the center of the town. It was the perfect spot to stock up on supplies before moving on to his next challenge.

Julian noted the small size of Oldale Town and recognized that he should swiftly restock on supplies and explore the nearby forest to catch new Pokémon before taking on the gym.

After purchasing the items he needed, he set his sights on the forest, known for being home to various Pokémon species. On his way there, he encountered a man in a green coat over a red shirt. This man had brown hair and was accompanied by a Meowth, which sported a unique appearance, with a blue fedora hat, a red scarf around its neck, and brown boots.

Julian, despite a nagging sense of familiarity with the man and his uniquely dressed Meowth, brushed off the thought, thinking, 'Have I seen this guy somewhere? Hmmm, maybe in the anime. Well, I can't remember every random face I saw in my past life.'

Choosing not to dwell on it, Julian continued on his way, riding past the young man named Tyson and his distinctive Meowth.

Tyson couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu as Julian rode past him. He pondered aloud, "Why do I feel like I've seen him somewhere?"

Even his Meowth, while sharing a similar curiosity, couldn't provide any answers and simply shook its head, indicating its lack of recognition regarding Julian's identity. The mystery of Julian remained unsolved for Tyson and his Meowth.

Julian ventured deeper into the forest, keen on finding the Pokémon he had in mind to add to his Hoenn team. Although he didn't immediately spot any Pokémon in the vicinity, he sensed the presence of Pokémon all around him – in the bushes, trees, and beneath the ground. Julian chose not to disturb them, respecting their habitat and maintaining a harmonious balance.

As he continued further into the forest, his experienced Pokémon team easily dispatched any wild Pokémon that attempted to block his path, allowing him to progress deeper into the forest in his search for the ideal addition to his team.

Frustration building due to his inability to find the Pokémon he desired, Julian decided to take action. He called upon his trusted Venusaur, who emerged into the forest. Venusaur's presence was imposing as it stood tall at 3.4 meters from its legs to its impressive flower. Julian patted Venusaur's head affectionately, finding solace in the loyal bond he shared with his Pokémon.

Julian commanded Venusaur with an order: "Venusaur, try finding the biggest tree in the forest."

Venusaur obediently nodded and acted swiftly. The massive Pokémon extended its two vines, penetrating deep into the ground, where it began to sense the life force of the roots beneath. After some time, Venusaur successfully identified a powerful life force, leading it to the location of the largest tree in the forest. Venusaur then communicated this information to Julian, pointing the way.

Julian praised Venusaur for its effective assistance and returned it to its Pokéball before proceeding in the direction indicated by his loyal Pokémon. Following the path, he eventually reached his destination. There, he was met by a massive, ancient tree that, despite its age, was still teeming with vitality. What intrigued Julian even more was the overwhelming presence of Pokémon life forces in the vicinity, with a significant majority belonging to a single species.

Julian couldn't help but think, 'If I'm not mistaken, this should be one of their nests.'

As he approached the massive tree, he was abruptly ambushed by a barrage of attacks: Bullet Seeds, Seed Bombs, and Energy Balls. However, Julian's agility and battle instincts served him well, allowing him to effortlessly dodge every attack that came his way, demonstrating his skill and experience as a Pokémon Trainer.

Julian immediately called upon his trusty Venusaur, who emerged to shield him from the incoming attacks. Venusaur's imposing presence and a powerful roar put a stop to the onslaught of attacks, creating a moment of stillness.

Julian remained focused and, as he gazed upward, a Pokémon descended from the top of the tree, landing gracefully on its feet. The Pokémon was tall, standing at least 2 meters in height, and had a striking green appearance with blades protruding from its arms – it was a Sceptile. The forest's guardian had made its presence known.

Julian swiftly initiated a telepathic communication with the Sceptile, stating, "I want you to give me a young Treecko from your nest."

The unexpected intrusion into Sceptile's thoughts startled it, causing the guardian Pokémon to become wary and cautious of Julian's presence and request.

Sceptile communicated back, asking, "Why should I give you one of my nest's children?"

Julian responded, "No reason, but I can assure you that the one I choose will not be limited and will grow exceptionally strong."

Sceptile, as the leader of the nest, understood the importance of a strong Pokémon receiving proper guidance and training from a capable Trainer. Recognizing the benefits of such an arrangement, Sceptile contemplated the situation and eventually took action in response to Julian's request.

Sceptile, after considering Julian's request, finally responded, "If you are able to defeat me, I will grant you your wish."

Julian accepted the challenge with determination, saying, "Great, then let's begin."

He commanded Venusaur into action, and the massive Pokémon rose onto its hind legs before coming crashing down with its front legs, creating tremors that reverberated through the surrounding area. Sceptile, in response, leaped into action, launching a barrage of Bullet Seeds toward Venusaur. The battle between these two formidable Pokémon was now underway.

Julian swiftly issued a command, instructing Venusaur to unleash an Energy Ball. Venusaur complied, creating a massive Energy Ball and launching it toward the incoming barrage of Bullet Seeds. The Energy Ball effortlessly repelled the projectiles, allowing Venusaur to continue advancing toward Sceptile.

Startled by the Energy Ball, Sceptile attempted to evade it, managing to move out of the way just in time as the Energy Ball soared into the sky and detonated harmlessly. However, Sceptile failed to notice that Venusaur had employed its Vine Whip to grasp Sceptile's leg, using its powerful appendage to slam the guardian Pokémon to the ground. The tide of the battle shifted in Julian's favor.

As Sceptile was injured and attempting to rise once more, it was interrupted by the arrival of another Sceptile, a female. Julian surmised that this was likely Sceptile's mate.

The guardian Sceptile glanced at its partner and ceased its advance, turning its attention back to Julian. The presence of its mate had a calming effect, and the guardian Pokémon appeared to be considering the situation.

Sceptile, after observing Julian's strength and determination in battle, eventually declared, "You have proved that you are strong, stronger than I thought. I will keep my promise."

With a resounding cry, Sceptile called forth young Treeckos, and they descended from the tree, slowly making their way down. Others emerged from the nearby bushes. Julian was taken aback by the sheer number of Treecko present in the area, and he even noticed some Grovyle perched in the treetops. The guardian Sceptile was now prepared to fulfill its promise.

Julian surveyed the young Treeckos, recognizing the potential in many of them. However, as he was on the verge of making a selection, a rustling from the nearby bushes drew his attention. To his astonishment, he spotted a rare and remarkable sight – a Shiny Treecko, distinguishable by its striking fluorescent blue color and a vibrant red tail.

Julian couldn't believe his luck at encountering such a unique and rare Pokémon. He immediately recognized the immense potential and decided that this Shiny Treecko was the perfect addition to his team.

Julian pointed at the Shiny Treecko and confidently declared, "That one."

Sceptile glanced at the shiny Treecko and expressed some reservations, warning Julian, "Are you sure? That one is a little rebellious."

However, Julian welcomed the challenge, responding, "That's even better. He carries a strong presence with him, and that's precisely what I was looking for."

Sceptile, acknowledging Julian's choice and his preference for a strong-willed Pokémon, nodded its head in understanding. The bond between Trainer and Pokémon was forming.

Sceptile, in agreement with Julian's choice, called the Shiny Treecko forward and instructed it to join Julian. The Shiny Treecko, obedient to Sceptile's directive, nodded and proceeded toward Julian, pausing to take in the sight of the colossal Venusaur standing by its new Trainer.

Julian knelt down to be at eye level with Treecko and offered words of encouragement, saying, "So, Treecko, let's become strong together."

The Shiny Treecko gazed at Venusaur in awe and then turned its attention to Julian. Eager to embark on this new journey with its Trainer, it nodded its head in agreement. A powerful bond was forming between Julian and the Shiny Treecko.

Treecko, driven by an innate desire to become stronger, had always been a bit of a rebel and often engaged in fights with other Treeckos. Witnessing its leader's swift defeat by Venusaur came as a shock to the young Pokémon. It had always held its leader in high regard, believing it to be the epitome of strength.

However, this humbling experience made Treecko realize that the world beyond its home tree was vast and filled with countless powerful beings. While Treecko initially harbored a dislike for humans, it couldn't deny the allure of the potential for growth and strength that the outside world offered.

In the end, seeing the strength and determination in Julian, Treecko decided to set aside its previous reservations and follow Julian, hoping to find the strength it had always desired under his guidance. The path to strength and growth awaited, and the partnership between Julian and Treecko was set to be an extraordinary one.

Treecko, as it gazed into Julian's eyes, could discern the unwavering determination and desire to help it reach its full potential, much like Venusaur standing proudly at Julian's side. The bond between Trainer and Pokémon was growing stronger.

Julian, with a sense of accomplishment, retrieved a Pokéball and gently pressed it against Treecko's head, allowing the young Pokémon to enter the device. After a series of beeps, the capture was successful.

As Julian stood up and prepared to depart, he bid farewell to Sceptile. The guardian Pokémon nodded in acknowledgment and returned to its treetop perch, reuniting with its mate. The other Treecko in the vicinity likewise melted into the surrounding foliage, their secret nest remaining hidden.

Julian continued on his journey, eventually reaching the peaceful banks of a river, where he decided to take a well-deserved rest.

Julian decided to let all of his Pokémon out of their Pokéballs as he and his team settled by the serene riverbank. As the Pokémon emerged, they took in their new surroundings, aware that they had entered a whole new region, Hoenn. Treecko, the newest addition to the team, was visibly taken aback by the strong presence of Julian's other Pokémon. 

Notably, Treecko appeared a bit startled and sought refuge behind the towering Venusaur. Despite Treecko's inherent bravery, it was clear that the sudden introduction to Julian's formidable Pokémon team had left him a little unnerved. The encounter marked the beginning of a journey filled with adventure and growth for this diverse and promising team.

Amused by Treecko's reaction, Julian gently picked up the Shiny Treecko, attempting to comfort and reassure his newest Pokémon.

Julian spoke to Treecko, saying, "You don't have to be scared of them. They're like family to you now."

He then glanced at his other Pokémon, reaffirming the sense of unity and belonging that had been forming among his team.

Julian encouraged Treecko to interact with the rest of his team, promoting a sense of camaraderie and togetherness. As Treecko gradually overcame his initial surprise, Infernape was the first to step forward and offer a friendly greeting, followed by Heatran, Electivire, Gengar, Kabutops, Pidgeot, and Venusaur. Snorlax, on the other hand, remained blissfully asleep, oblivious to the world around him.

Treecko, in awe of the formidable company he now found himself in, was at once humbled and excited. Meeting these powerful teammates further reinforced the idea that he was part of a team that would strive for strength and growth together.

As Treecko gazed around, his attention was drawn to the river, where he noticed an unusual occurrence. The water was rapidly rising, and soon, a massive, 14-meter long red monster emerged from the depths. Treecko's initial shock was quickly quelled when Venusaur, a fellow teammate, assured him that Gyarados was part of their group.

Having received this reassurance, Treecko regained his composure and greeted Gyarados. The encounter with the formidable Water and Flying-type Pokémon served as a vivid reminder of the diverse and awe-inspiring companions he had joined on this journey.

Treecko seemed to form a particularly strong bond with Gengar and Electivire, the three Pokémon finding common ground and shared interests. Julian observed their interactions and couldn't help but shake his head in mild amusement. He had a hope that Treecko wouldn't be negatively influenced by Gengar and Electivire's mischievous nature.

At the same time, Treecko looked up to Infernape, Heatran, and Gyarados with awe, recognizing their formidable strength. He sensed that they were the powerhouses of the team. As for Snorlax, his imposing presence was somewhat lost as he continued to enjoy a peaceful slumber. This eclectic group of Pokémon was set to embark on an unforgettable journey, each member contributing their unique strengths to the team.

As the day drew to a close, Julian ensured that his Pokémon were well-fed. Snorlax, typically asleep, stirred at the enticing aroma of the meal. Once awake, he briefly acknowledged Treecko's presence before returning to his slumber. The peaceful camaraderie of Julian's team highlighted the bond that was growing stronger among its members, a reflection of their shared journey and experiences ahead.

With his first day in the outside world filled with awe-inspiring encounters and realizations of the power he needed to achieve, Treecko was resolute in his determination not to let Julian down. The day came to a close, and Julian and his Pokémon settled in for the night, eager to face the challenges and adventures that awaited them on the morrow.