Chapter 47 : Back to Mt Moon

Jonathan's POV, Tunnels of Mt Moon

An expedition - a journey to seek out new Pokémon for the sake of glory or improvement of one's home.

It was a concept deeply rooted and cherished in the traditions of ancient Pokémon kingdoms, including the Rota Kingdom of Kanto and Bharatsa in the distant past.

Archer took the series of tasks meant for the seeds for our breeding house as an expedition that truly inspired the security forces I had trained.

Every trainer dreams at least once of embarking on an adventure akin to those of medieval knights, and this was their chance to live out that dream.

This move of Archer is brilliant.

However, I wonder when he is going to the last gym in Viridian City. I mean, if I counted correctly, he spent a month each in Bharatsa and Sinnoh.

Luckily, he had completed Fushia gym in a brief stop and the Cinnabar gym match in Sinnoh. That leaves only a month for the final gym.

With the numerous tasks he issued through the Breeding House that covered all of Kanto, I am rightfully puzzled by his decision.

SNORT

Maybe he will go for a minor gym somewhere along the way. However, considering his nature, I doubt it. The kid had one heck of an ego since he was a child.

THUD THUD

THUD THUD

As the massive group of human trainers moved through the tunnels of Mt. Moon, their presence provoked the Pokémon inhabiting the caves.

GEOOO

GRAVELEEER

Solitary Geodudes and Gravelers scattered at the sight of the approaching horde. However, the larger tribes of Zubats, Golbats, and occasional Crobats grew aggressive, launching attacks against us.

SLASH

WHOOSH

SLASH

SLASH

I observed calmly as the members of the Rock community, or clan as Archer referred to them, stepped forward to defend against the onslaught.

"One, Two and Three. Formation wall."

THUMP THUMP

THUMP

BOOOM

Each member of the Rock community wielded a Rock-type Pokémon cultivated over generations. Golems, Onixes, and even a rare Roggenrola erected stone walls.

BEEEE

FREEEEEEE

Next came the members of the Butterfree and Beedrill community, affectionately known as Frees and Bees.

WHOOSH 

WHOOOSH

Squads of Butterfree unleashed various powder moves, immobilizing the enemy Pokémon while a few flying types created gusts to disorient them. Meanwhile, the Beedrills launched coordinated attacks, using their pincer missiles and Fell Stinger to knock down the majority of Pokémon in their path.

SWOOOSH SWOOOSH

BOOM BOOM BOOM

THUCK

As the skirmish ended, it devolved into intense one-on-one battles with the survivors.

"Squirtle, use a Water gun."

"Metal claw."

"Focus punch."

I am proud of my nation's unique features.

While the numerous conflicts between these communities divided it into pieces making it weak and a mess to rule, the same feature promoted Pokemon training to every citizen for centuries. A feat the Pokemon League has only accomplished under Oak's tyrant fist.

It was simply like Dregen's case, his Beedrill was from his parents and now its spawns were given to Archer and Sam, who grew up surrounded by other members of the Beedrill community.

So, either by active or passive understanding, both of them are quite knowledgeable regarding the Beedrill line.

It was lucky that Dregen's progressive outlook was passed down to them both. Otherwise, it is impossible to command a large group in Bharatsa.

Unfortunately, people who can put aside their disdain for other communities are far too few.

Looking at Archer who observed the Trainer group's dealing with the wild attack, evaluating their every step with his new silver eye, I internally thought, "Not Archer. The kid is built far differently to care about the backward conflicts."

---====Archer's pov, Tunnels of Mt Moon===---

As I observed some of the members of our force capturing Pokémon they had defeated, I couldn't help but notice some glaring mistakes. It was crucial that they understood the rules and responsibilities that came with being part of our organization.

"You there," I called out sternly, addressing one of the trainers who had just captured a Pokémon but didn't bother with the fainted wild Pokemon. "Treat the Pokémon you battled with. You are no longer a solo trainer pursuing your own goals. You are here as a member of my force, on a mission for my breeding house. If an undercover inspector were to witness this, both of us would be in serious trouble."

The trainer I singled out looked embarrassed, but I knew this correction was necessary.

Unlike in normal circumstances where individual trainers might have more leeway, as part of our organization, they were expected to adhere to strict guidelines.

In the wild areas integrated into League territory, it was essential to follow rules regarding the treatment of defeated Pokémon. Whether through healing or capture, every incapacitated Pokémon deserved respect and proper care after a battle.

While these rules might not always be enforceable for individual trainers, they were non-negotiable for an organization like ours. It is a basic principle of Gym-Pokémon relations and an integral part of guidelines made to uphold these standards.

"You idiot. Can't you understand the proper way to even apply a potion? Start from the periphery then go toward the centre of the wound."

SPRAY

Continuing to address the mistakes made by my team, I knew it was necessary despite the embarrassment and resentment it was causing.

As an employer, maintaining a friendly relationship with employees only goes so far before it leads to laziness and disregard for the work of employees. A boss must command respect and instil a healthy level of fear to ensure productivity and adherence to rules—a lesson I had learned from my father in a previous life.

Judging our current location to be at the centre of the mountain, in the famed first chamber. 

[First chamber: A room carved out by Flint's grandfather. Essentially sealing his status as the 1st Pewter gym and harvesting the Mt Moon's resources.]

I studied the sole sanctuary for humans within Mt. Moon, established through Pewter Gym's agreement with the wild Pokémon.

"Okay everyone, set up camp here," I instructed firmly, knowing that our journey to find the seeds for my Breeding House—specifically the Clefairy line—was about to begin.

Unlike the portrayal in Anime, these Pokémon's existence here is only limited to rumours. 

So, I guess that they are far too deep in Mt Moon. But I have a clue of where they are considering they have a Giant Moonstone around which they conduct a lunar dance.

"Now, we'll deploy five squads of ten to scout the tunnels leading towards the mountain's summit," I continued. "Each squad will rotate every three hours. While I'm not concerned with which Pokémon you capture or items you find, I need detailed records of everything. The Poke phones were given for a reason. Captains, do you understand?"

"Yes, sir," came the unified response from the squad leaders.

Satisfied with their response, I finally admitted to myself that Jonathan's training paid off, with the establishment of a base camp equipped with data receivers, monitoring stations, a medical bay, and sleeping quarters.

With these preparations in place, our days were spent training within the chamber, gearing up for the inevitable encounter with Giovanni.

Based on our progress and the geographical data available in the League researcher Database, I estimated that we should locate the Clefairy tribe within a week or two. So I will have plenty of time for the final gym.

----===Temporary command centre, First chamber====---

"Hey! What are they doing?"

"I wonder if they will battle me. It will be an exciting battle. Am I right, Charmander?"

CHAR

"Stop being stupid. They seem to be busy."

"Wow, It is the first time I saw so many trainers together."

I looked at the travelling trainers who looked at us in curiosity while we were going through the motions for the last ten days. Such a naive and peaceful journey, I wish I had that.

But a shout from Rotom pulled me from my thoughts, "Archer, another image is found. This time it is in proximity to the first sighting."

I swiftly made my way to the command tent, where a video enlargement revealed a blurred image of my target. I smiled at the site of the cute Pokemon.

"Finally, You managed to hide from me the first time. Now, I brought an army."

CHOKE

Ignoring the choking Jon, I had the AI try to triangulate the tribe's location.

[Command received.

The integrated Rotom-Porygon-AI Module

Receiving the footage, generating a mental map of the last three sightings and triangulating a potential location based on the height from sea level.

Result: Potenial nest of Clefairy line.]

Without hesitation, I began issuing commands to the team. "Everyone, assemble and prepare to move out on my command."

Turning to Sam, I delegated responsibilities. "Sam, you'll hold down the fort here. Derek and his squad will assist you," I instructed, knowing that their presence would provide additional support to Sam in my absence.

I hope he will get used to commanding this many people. It is unfair considering even I am barely holding it together. 

SIGH

Such is the way of life.

"Jon, Samantha, and Jonathan with me. The small group size will minimize the risk of spooking the Clefairy. Once we assess the situation on-site, I'll communicate further instructions to you, Sam."

--====Tunnel to the mountain's summit====-----

CRACKLE CRACKLE

ELECTRIVIREE

BOOOM

As Electivire led the way, Jonathan asked me, "Will Sam be able to command that many Trainers? I mean, not everyone is an anomaly like you."

His comment stirred a mixture of emotions within me. Was I truly an anomaly, as he suggested? I am different, there is no doubt about it. It's not just because of my reincarnation.

I am sure that anyone else in my position would have just ignored Dregen and taken the call of adventure, embarking on a journey without a second thought.

Perhaps a few kind ones would return after they gain some influence to change it, but none would be as stubborn as me to start the change in Bharatsa immediately.

The image of the 200 trainers who had joined our force flashed before my eyes, making me proud of myself. If I abandoned them back 3 months ago, who knew what fate would befall them?

They might fall into the clutches of gangs or follow the path of Ethan, descending into a life of violence and chaos. Most importantly, Dregen's influence and name would have diluted making my job more tough.

Now, It will kept alive and help me control the area.

So reaffirmed in my path, I said to Jonathan not caring about his unintended Jab at me. "It is not just me who changed due to the responsibility put on us. Sam has changed a lot in this couple of months, Jonathan."

But a dull feeling set on the group as the reason for responsibility came to mind.

Jon spoke up, who is assuming the role of mood setter nowadays, "Lighten up, Dad," he said, his voice filled with joy "Sam has changed a lot in the trip. Especially with the onslaught of meeting with multiple Archer brands."

Though, I never said this to him directly, I am thankful for his actions.

Even Samantha chimed in, adding to Jon's words using the stereotype based on my name, "The biggest one would be the hit to him from Little girl version Archer, trust me her team could give these brats Pokemon a run for their money."

Jonathan, the one-handed uncle, laughed at the talk about Cynthia and continued with the flow of conversation, "So, any mischief from my boys?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Samantha rolled her eyes in mock exasperation, playfully teasing Jonathan about his past antics. "Thankfully, nobody followed in your footsteps. The last thing I need is for my charges to turn into playboys like you."

Their banter finally brought a smile to my face, thankfully they are a talkative bunch. I am sure that I am no great conversationalist.

Jonathan took the Jab in stride, rubbing his chin in embarrassment. Though it was a surprise for me to know his playboy past.

However, his legend ended when he proposed to his long-time girlfriend.

The highlight of the event is that the girlfriend was not Jon's mother but her sister. The man managed to blunder his way by getting his girlfriend's sister pregnant on the day of the proposal and ended up marrying her – Jon's mother and also his girlfriend's sister.

I am still unsure about the sequence of the events that followed and the current state of the family, but Jon's mother is quite suspicious of him to date.

Poor Jonathan, there was even a custom order from her for tracking and listening software on her husband's Pokephone.

The first time I learned about this, it reminded me of some age-old drama. But, Man Jonathan got guts.

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

Soon the rocky tunnels ended into a wide chamber reflecting the moonlight from a small hole in the ceiling. I could only describe the scene as beautiful beyond words.

Before me, stood the giant Moonstone, A tribe of Cleffairy line consisting of dozens of Cleffa, few Clefairy, and occasional Clefable. With the rhythmic sound of their sweet voice, they danced around the Moonstone.

CLEEFAA FAA CLEE FFFEEE FE FEE

CLLE FEE FAAA CLEE

Despite my initial impulse to call in the rest of the force, I held back, better to go for a peaceful approach rather than forcible relocation.

As the Indigo Pokemon rights dictate, the relocation of their tribe under their approval is legal beyond words. But if I forcibly relocate them, the inspections and sanctions will eventually force my hand to make peace with them. Such deals will cripple any business due to the excessive demands.

So better to do the deal now.

CLEFABBBLEEEE

Approaching the Clefable with grey fur who came to the forefront. I could more or less guess it holds a position of authority within the tribe based on the looks of guidance from others,

I introduced myself. "Hello, Clefable. I am Archer, a Pokémon trainer."

Clefable responded with a series of vocalizations, which Metagross quickly translated for me.

"Who are you, human? Why are your people searching for our children?" the Clefable demanded.

Quickly, I reassured him, "It was a mistake on my part. Communication with your kind is limited, and many are unaware of your existence. I had my people search the mountain summit to find your location so that I could meet with you. You see, I am a Pokémon Breeder, the youngest in this region. I plan to establish a Breeding House, a place where Pokémon can thrive and flourish. You see a Breeding house is a ---"

Before I could continue to explain about the Bredding house, the elderly Clefable interjected, his voice tinged with annoyance. "I know what a Breeding House is. I'm not naive. I have friends in the mountains who have travelled with human trainers before."

His response caught me off guard, but I maintained my composure. It seemed that the Clefable was more knowledgeable than I had anticipated.

Clefable shouted to me, "I know about Breeding houses, essentially you will introduce strong mates to us and be responsible for our needs and our progeny, all under the condition you will be allowed to introduce the Trainers to use, and Pokemon willing from our tribe be the trainer's team members."

Some Cleffa and Clefable looked up with bright eyes at that. I could only sigh at the innocence.

Fortunately for them and unfortunately for me, The Clefable seem to know the dangers in reality well. Even if society improved due to Oak and Goodshow there are still occasional acts of cruelty in the news every day.

As if to prove my guess about him, Clefable continued to ask, "What's the guarantee of your ability to take care of my tribe or that the prospective trainers will be good to them."

I nodded at his justified doubts, "Actually the trainer will be chosen by the Pokemon. As for my ability, I can prove it to you. After all the title for youngest breeder of kanto is not for show. "

Seeing him contemplating I continued to poke the main problem faced by him.

I explained to the old Clefable, "Listen, old guy, your tribe is not necessarily protected against relocation by League. You are not under any relation with a human organization like a gym nor under the influence of Pokemon tribes that maintain such relations. You are illegal tribes in the mountain and never responded to the league calls when the area was brought under its rule."

Under the stiff face of Clefable, I bluntly revealed the truth, "Essentially any trainer or organization can capture you or your tribe as long as they manage to befriend you in a year while following the capture."

CLEEEFAIIRY

CLEE

CLEFABLLEE

Clefable nodded amongst the murmurs of the other Cleffa and Clefairy.

It seemed my words had managed to a chord with them, emphasizing their illegal occupation in this wild without proper protection. After all, no sentient being can accept living in hiding like them. 

Always scared and locked up in a single cavern.

"Your words ring true, Archer," the elderly Clefable acknowledged sadly. "We may not be directly affiliated with any human organization or the wild Pokemon groups, but we have our network of friends and family to safeguard ourselves from future problems."

"But isn't it better to prevent such a problem than wait for it to occur and cure them? There is a reason Breeding houses are held in high regard by both Humans and Pokemon alike."

I tried my best, to understand their point of view while explaining my side, "That's why I offer my assistance. By establishing a Breeding House, we can ensure the safety and well-being of your tribe. I can even pat my chest and say I can help increase the move pool in your future progeny and have the best diet and care for all members. Not to mention the security, look at my Electrivire, this guy is my starter."

CRACKLE CRACKLE

Electrivier showed himself off with strong currents of Thunder that were sent around the chamber, circling all the members at an exact meter distance.

The sheer control of electricity is so beautiful that he can easily convert to a contest Pokemon. But, my battle maniac would rather die than become a glorified model.

Clefairy line looked at the sight with glowing eyes as their fur rose with the static generated.

I finally set the final nail by Rotomdex projecting my encounter with Zapdos.

The Clefable and his tribe watched the video in shock. After all the Legendary Pokemon are held in great regard in the minds of Pokemon.

Surviving the representative of nature is enough for them to respect me. As for the scars and damage I suffered, they could be considered badges of honour by them.

The clefable gaze was shifting between me and the video Pokémon in shock. I knew I had him.

After a moment of silence, he spoke again. "Very well, Archer. We will consider your proposal. But know this, we will not agree lightly. We must deliberate among ourselves and ensure that any decision we make is in the best interest of our tribe."

I respected that point.

"Of course, Clefable. Take all the time you need. In the meantime, I will do everything in my power to assist you and prove my sincerity."

As per my words, Rotomdex started the prepared videos of land I brought for Ecology Park, meanwhile, I got to the food I made based on the Pecha berry, a staple food of Gardevior.

Hopefully, this antidote berry might be the one rich in Fairy energy, just like the Lum berry is for Bug-type.

With these guys, I can gather data and research Fairy type.

I can already imagine this berry being the first finding.

After all things considered. the discovery of a new type requires not just the Pokemon fitting in it, but also numerous other requirements like type matchings, Energy readings, Berries, and its role in the ecosystem.

This could be my first step in the decade-long research on Fairy type.