The Numbers are Different [completed]

[DarkSlayer]

Looking down at the map, the newly minted trainer frowned to himself. Having lived in Hoenn his entire life, he was expecting to see the same sort of setup as his home. Yet it appeared that things were most definitely not just like home. Back in Hoenn, the route numbers started with 101, which made the most sense, obviously. What were you supposed start from? One? That was pretty presumptuous of the settlers to think that they could start from the very beginning, as if nobody else had thought to number roads before they came along. No way did this have anything to do with Euan thinking that Hoenn should have been considered number one, meaning that the Route 101 was the premier route. Not at all...

The first thing that he had done in Johto, though, was to go straight to the Professor's lab, in order to get his starter Pokemon. And of course there was disappointment to be had there, as he had been set on starting with a Totodile. When he found out that Elm's supply of his own region's starters had been wiped out, Euan found himself pretty aggravated. Now he had to figure out who the hell he wanted to start with out of all of the Pokemon you were supposed to start with in Kanto. His choice was only made easier by the fact that... well... he had plenty of knowledge about plants. So why not start with the grass starter, right? At least that was his way of thinking.

Now he did want to figure out what exactly happened to his brother, so he had spent some time hanging around New Bark, seeing if he could find anybody who might know a thing or two. But of course it seemed that nobody knew a damn thing. Granted, he wasn't even sure what exactly he was supposed to be looking for. He had asked if anybody happened to come through about eight years ago, who seemed to be running. But that was so long ago, what could he actually expect? There was no way anybody was going to remember anything from that long ago. Except that apparently, around the time that his brother had been killed, there was news of a bunch of people being smuggled into Johto from Hoenn. And if that wasn't a clue, then he didn't know what was! The problem? Those people had actually been brought to Olivine City...

Which meant that he really had to get his journey under way. And that started out on the route between New Bark Town and Cherrygrove City. It wasn't a very large city, apparently, and no doubt it wouldn't really give him anything that he needed. Not in terms of finding the man who had killed his brother, anyway. But this was the first time that he was on his own. Well... at least as far on his own as he could ever be. He had his very first Pokemon in this region, of course. The Bulbasaur that he had settled on. Now he would find out just what this Pokemon was able to do for him. After all, if he was going to be doing this thing, then he might as well do it right and actually do the whole trainer thing.

[Kataya]

The weather was muggy and humid along the route by the time that Euan got his starter. Bulbasaur had seemed like the logical choice after facing initial disappointment that the starter he had wanted was just the one Elm had been fresh out of. It was WARM, and most Pokemon had retreated into the shade of their burrows or the holes inside the trunks of trees. In other words, the Route was almost barren of Pokemon for the moment, least of all ones that wanted to battle.

But not trainers. 

At least, save for one, eagerly looking through the grass and badgering people for a battle as his trusty rat Pokemon hung off his shoulder. Joey was a different breed of youngster. Some would say he and his Rattata were...top percentage. He hopped around, disappointed whenever someone declined a battle, or his search for a new Pokemon friend turned up empty. And then, he spotted Euan.

He SMELLED like new trainer. "Hey, Hey Buddy!" Joey called, rushing over. He bounced excitedly on his heels, holding his rat out in front of him. "Mom says my Rattata is the best. Like, THE best. But no one wants to battle me right now! Their all BORING. But you just came from Elm's lab, right? You gotta' have a new Pokemon looking to test their battle legs against us. What do you say? Huh? Plleeeaaaase?!"

--
Something is coming your way...
It looks like Top Percentage.
--

Youngster Joey is insisting you battle his TOP PERCENTAGE Rattata (Level 5)!

[DarkSlayer]

Euan hadn't really broken a sweat yet because hot weather was pretty much the norm back home. Of course it was dry there, what with the volcano and all that. It really took all the moisture out of the air... which made rain not all that common. But when it did come down, it was usually hard, and soaked everything... and then the heat had it all evaporating and yeah, then it got kinda humid. So the humidity wasn't entirely foreign to him, although it was still quite heavy. No, he wasn't too hot so much as just finding it a bit of an annoyance trying to breathe properly through the haze of the weather.

All of this to say that he was already getting into something of a mood - nothing that would have been seen as out of the ordinary for those who knew the young man. So when Joey came up all chipper like a cut off log rolling down a steep hill, the look that he received in return... well it wasn't the kindest that he had ever given. Which, to be honest, isn't normally how he responds to new people, but dang... was he in a mood or what.

"Your mom told you that, did she?" He was incredulous as he spoke, his eyes telling that he was not the least bit impressed by this bit of news whatsoever. "I guess she must be a pretty reliable source for that information, right? I mean... it's not like your mother would actually say anything like that just because you're her son. That would be crazy, right?"

He was laying it on thick, and he knew it. Euan absolutely hated when he got into moods like this, and the tone of his voice grated on his own nerves. Okay, time to reign it in. It wasn't this kid's fault that it was muggy as all hell and it was a bit of a jaunt between New Bark and Cherrygrove. At least he was trying to do something with his time, and not dwell on how humid it was. Maybe Joey here actually knew what he was doing, distracting himself with trying to have a little fun. Now the question was... could Euan rise to the occasion?

"Sorry. Ignore my crabbiness, it's not your fault. Your Rattata does look pretty strong." Might as well at least try to humor the kid. "And you're right, I am a new trainer. Just got my very first Pokemon here, and haven't seen him in action yet. Kind of worried you might kick my butt, actually." Euan even gave a sincere smile at that. "But what the heck? No reason not to give it a go, right?"

The challenge was accepted, and soon they were facing off. Hibiscus was out of his Pokeball and seemed to be absolutely loving the weather. Maybe it would be best to keep him out of his Pokeball for now, if this was going to be the reaction. Because while the trainers here were ready for a fight, the Bulbasaur was hopping in the short grass on the field they had selected, obviously soaking up all the sun he could. Plus the moisture in the air? Absolutely perfect for a tropical plant like Pokemon like him. Rolling his eyes with a smile that clearly showed how entertained Euan really was, he gave a gentle sigh that caught his partner's attention. Oh, yeah... they were going to battle!

Now Hibiscus here was ready to show his skills. Oh yeah, he was tough! He was going to show this Rattata the stuff that he was made of! Er... but what did Euan want him to do? He had to listen to him. There was no way he was going to end up disappointing his new trainer! Not when he had spent... however long it was, waiting for someone to pick him! Him of all the other Pokemon in that lab! Oh gosh, this was his lucky day...

"Alright, this is our first battle together, so let's make it count! Start things off with a Growl to set your stance!"

It might have seemed pretty lame, but Euan had to think about this long term, given how much weight the other trainer had put into his words to back up his own Pokemon. There was the chance that this Rattata really was impressively tough.

[Tarlar]

Joey's smile faltered a bit at the look Euan gave him, it was not unlike what he had often received from adults who thought he was a nuisance. He quickly shook it off him and his smile returned as big as ever.
"Jep!" He confirmed proudly, "she does! She's the one who caught 'im! She was a really great trainer back when she traveled and she said she wanted to get me the best!" Either not catching or not caring that the other trainer wasn't impressed at all. The rattata tilted its head and watched Euan with huge innocent eyes, it waved its tail playfully.
"Yeah! That would be crazy!" Joey laughed, "She got all the way to Olivine and beat Jasmine! I have seen the badge myself! She said Brutus was the savor of the day! When I get there I'll beat her with a fighting type too, what do you think would be best against Jasmine?" Joey blabbered on excitedly, clearly in awe of his mother.

"Huh?" Joey said when Euan apologized, "aren't adults always angry?" He said a bit confused and then let go of his rattata who nimbly landed on the ground. Joey covered his mouth as he giggled, "I've never had an adult say sorry for that before," he clearly found that hilarious although he looked happy about it.
"Bulbasaurs are awesome!" Joey said eagerly and clearly meant every word, "but my rattata is best and no one can beat it!" he boasted while his rattata playfully batted its paw at some grass.

"First battle," Joey sighed and then grinned, "I 'member our first battle! It was against a wurmple and we lost!" Joey almost shouted and bend over laughing, "can you imagine that? A wurmple?"
Rattata tilted his head again as Hibiscus appeared and giggled as the other pokemon jump around enjoying the sun, and would call out a greeting and wave a paw in a mimic of a human greeting.
"Ready? Have you battled before? I can answer all your questions if you have any," Joey offered and straightened, liking being the big clever one for once.
"Rattata, go for a tackle and show 'em!" Joey called to his gentle pokemon.

The moment the purple rat had his orders it jumped to his feet and his eyes was glued to the bulbasaur, following his every move. He leaped forward and raced nimbly over the grass and slammed into the side of Hibiscus, making him stumble from the impact. The rat leaped back and instantly turned back to its former innocent look.
"Oh, I'm so sorry, I stumbled!" It called out to Hibiscus and added worried, "are you hurt?"
Hibiscus quickly shook of the attack, he had something to prove after all! He growled cutely and the rattata giggled and made a play bow in an attempt to invite to a play.
"Can you catch me?!" It called cheerfully although he still watched the bulbasaur closely.



Wild Encounter

---

Weather: Heatwave (Harsh Sun)

[attr="class","qkt-bkgd"]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-pkmn"]
TopPercent Rattata LV 5
HP 100% [19/19]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-pkmn"]
Hibiscus LV 5
HP 71% [15/21]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

Rattata [Guts]: -1ATK
Hibiscus [Overgrow]: Normal

SP13 Rattata used Tackle!
SP11 Hibiscus used Growl!

[DarkSlayer]

Oh dang, how much frustration did this kid get from the adults in his life? Euan could only assume that it was a hell of a lot if he was assuming that adults were always angry. And even worse was the fact that he wasn't the least bit used to anybody actually apologizing for their behavior! Which, okay, could potentially go to show that he was quite the annoying brat, and he certainly did seem like he was that way. But even Euan could see that that didn't excuse anybody being a complete jerk to him and treating him like crap all of the time. Maybe he was the way that he was because what he really wanted more than anything was some form of acceptance.

"Jasmine? Sorry, I don't really know everything about this region and the gym leaders here..." He had barely learned about Falkner. "She sounds like she might be into plants though?"

The new trainer raised his eyebrow at the exclamation about losing to a wurmple. He could see why that might be something to laugh about, but at the same time... if your pokemon happened to get stung by one of them, it could end up leading to a loss. As a matter of fact, Euan was pretty sure that having that happen in your very first battle most likely would lead to a nasty loss indeed. With that thought in mind, he began to wonder if maybe he should start thinking about his strategy with Hibiscus long term. Like which moves he'd want him to have, and how precisely he'd want to use him depending on the situation at hand. But that might be a little early, given that he didn't have any other pokemon to build a full strategy with.

As kind enough as it was for the younger boy to offer up some guidance, it seemed like this was one of those things that Euan would have to learn for himself. Surely he head learned enough in school that he would be able to handle this alright. What was the worst that could happen, really? Even if this kid did happen to have a pretty tough rattata, it wasn't like he had to worry that Hibiscus was about to come away with this with a shredded bulb.

From Hibiscus' perspective, this rat was anything but a good sport with things. He immediately got into action, which was perfectly fine, really! But then he was trying to play it off like it was some kind of accident and he was just all cute and innocent... did he really think that the bulbasaur didn't know what was going on? This was a battle, not some little game of tag!

He shook himself off, less than pleased with the way that he had just been struck. And it kind of hurt. Like... pretty good actually. Was his trainer going to step things up, or did he hope that growling at the damn thing all day was going to mitigate all of the damage? Because... yeah, no, he didn't think he could handle too many more of those kinds of hits.

"It's okay Hibiscus, you're going to get hit too. But we've set things up a little for ourselves I think." Euan hoped so, anyway. "Now that you've set yourself up, let's show them what you can do with a vine whip!"

Now that's what he wanted to hear! With a little smile of his own, Hibiscus bowed his head towards the rattata... and then he cracked his vines, making that signature wha-kish sound. "Oh it's okay! Wanna play jump rope?" And then his vines were launched, upwards at first and then snapping down to strike the rat pokemon. Let him get a little taste of what he could do.

Hibiscus uses Vine Whip!

[Caramell 🍬]

Joey’s eye widened as he listened to Euan try to figure out what type of person Jasmine was. To the young child who had grown up with so many stories of the surrounding GYMs and their GYM Leader, it was strange to meet a person who didn’t know about the Steel Type GYM Leader. The small child voice rose so loud that you would think it might crack under the pressure. “Oh my gosh, NO, silly!” He pressed his hands to his lips and giggles as she shook his head wildly. “She’s a Steel Type GYM Leader! She’s the GYM Leader in Olivine City, in fact!” Joey bounced on the tips of his toes as he instantly became a well of information about the GYM Leader in question. “She has an Ampharos – Sparkle – who is always getting sick so she needs special medicine from Cianwood to help her Ampharos. Some say Sparkle actually has another nickname, Amphy, but who would name their Pokemon that? Obviously it’s Sparkle – a much more suitable nickname – don’t ya think??”

The Rattata slammed his tail against the cold dirt earth and stood up tall. He twitched its long whiskers and faced off with his ‘opponent’. As Joey spoke to Euan, though, it caught the purple rodent off-guard. He turned with a cheesy smile and shrugged towards his trainer. “Joey is really so smart!” The Rattata chattered to Hibiscus with a bright smile. “I bet your trainer is really smart too…huh?” The rodent asked innocently. As the Bulbasaur began releasing long vines from his body, the rodent jumped up onto his feet and nodded his head furiously. “Oh, my bad! You’re right, this is a battle isn’t it? Huh? But I promise not to be too rough, since we’re just having fun…ok?!” The rodent kicked off of the ground and rushed at his opponent at the top of his speed. He would ram his head against Hibiscus’ side. Hibiscus slapped the rodent silly with his vines several times, whipping the small rodent on his head, shoulders, and sides.

“Hang in there, Rattata! Remember that you’re Top Percentage! Nothing can take us down!” Joey immediately switched gears as he spun around to study his partner. The bruises formed along the Rattata’s body where Hibiscus had struck him, but the Rattata stood up tall and proud. There was no way that a couple of vines would take it down! “That was…SO COOL!” The Rattata cheered Hibiscus on, jumping on the top of its feet. “But a little rough. Would you like me to turn it up a notch, then?” The rodent smirked. To Joey’s concern, the rodent stared at his trainer with his bright red eyes and nodded his head. “I’m fine, Joey! We’ve still got this because we’re gunna be the best! You promised, remember?!” It squeaked at the top of its voice.

Wild Encounter

---

Weather: Heatwave (Harsh Sun)

[attr="class","qkt-bkgd"]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-pkmn"]
TopPercent ♂ LV 5
HP 68% [13/19]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-pkmn"]
Hibiscus ♂ LV 5
HP 52% [11/21]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

Rattata [Guts]: -1ATK
Hibiscus [Overgrow]: Normal

SP13 Rattata used Tackle!
SP11 Hibiscus used Vine Whip!

[DarkSlayer]

A steel type leader that went by the name of Jasmine? Well now if that wasn't a bit ironic, then he really didn't know what was. But maybe that was the whole point. He wondered if she was always thought of as a delicate flower of a girl, and had really come to resent that, so decided to specialize in the kind of pokemon that was very much not so delicate. No doubt some super cute looking girl with a hulking aggron or something like that would be a rather alarming image. Euan made note of that, though, so that he would remember what to expect later on down the challenge. Hopefully he would come across a fire type that would pique his interest some. Or maybe a good fighting pokemon. Something that could take on steel rather handily, because Hibiscus was not about to do much with his grass and poison specialties.

"Now wait... you said she raises steel types, but has an ampharos?" He might not have been the most knowledgeable person about every pokemon out there, but he knew what an ampharos was. And he was pretty sure that it was just a straight up electric pokemon. Not an ounce of steel running through its DNA as far as he was aware. But maybe this was a special condition? Oh, maybe it was wearing chain mail or something to make it like a steel type? That would have been pretty interesting. Still not proper steel typing, but creative none the less.

"Turn it up however much you want," Hibiscus responded, feeling quite pleased with himself. The fact that his very first opponent was claiming that he was being rough right out the gate? And by a pokemon that was apparently at the top of its shape and power, too! With quite a bit of experience by the sounds of things. Oh yes, that was quite the compliment, and Hibiscus was going to take it in stride. He was also going to amp up his cool factor and make it seem like he could handle anything that came his way, because he totally could! Or he would try anyway. Whatever it took to make Euan proud! He just hoped that if he did win, the rattata wouldn't end up looking like a disappointment to its trainer. Although that Joey kid did seem to be rather fond of the pokemon. It was hard to imagine him actually being less than happy, no matter what the outcome might be. Would Euan be the same? He wondered...

Euan was already considering things, knowing that starting the battle with a growl was probably a good call. He didn't want to start getting stale with his orders or anything, repeating the same attack over and over. But on the other hand, it wasn't as if his opponent hadn't started the battle with the same attack two times in a row. "You're doing great, Hibiscus, don't let up!" It was also important that he keep his pokemon amped up. "Come on, let's show it your own tackle, and hit him hard!" No way was he going to take it easy on his very first battle.

Well if that's what his trainer wanted, then he supposed that's what he was going to do. Of course that little rat was faster than him, so whatever Joey and him were planning... that would come first. But that wouldn't stop Hibiscus! He would run at his opponent with all his little heart!

Hibiscus uses Tackle!

[Caramell 🍬]

Joey’s eyes widened as he studied his purple rodent. Although TopPercent still had a lot of fight left in him, it was clear that Euan’s Hibiscus was managing to land some heavy blows on his furry friend. He bit the bottom of his lip and twisted his head around to study their environment while he strategized. “Momma always told me to ‘use what’s around you’ in a fight!” He declared bravely, though he was still trying to understand what she meant by that. “You ever heard of that before? I’m not sure how grass and sticks help but…maybe?” Then, he shook his head as though he had a change of plans in mid-sentence. “Oh wait…maybe! TopPercent, run through the tall grasses to try to get away from that mister’s Pokemon by hiding! And when the time is right, wag your tail at him! We need to make ‘em easier to strike!” Joey giggled as his eyes widened with blossoming hope for his plan.

The Rattata tilted his head and used one of his back paws to scratch himself behind the ears. What was his trainer on about? Though, when Joey’s voice changed from being unsure to having a full plan, the Rattata sprung into action. “See how smart my trainer is? Coming up with useful ways to use the terrain around us!” The Top Percent Rattata chattered with his long buckteeth. He turned away from Hibiscus and wagged his tail in the Bulbasaur’s face, then ran off through the thick tangle of long grasses and overgrown weeds. “Try to find me! Bet ya can’t!” The purple Rattata giggled at the top of his lungs. Joey giggled as he considered Euan’s confused words about Jasmine. “Oh, she used to train Rock Type Pokemon before Steel was discovered! Then, when her Onix evolved into a Steelix…I think that’s when she changed!” His naturally high-pitched childlike voice bubbled with wonder. “Sparkle is really only used to help guide ships at sea in the lighthouse. So, you probably won’t face it in battle if you ever battle her!” He continued.

Hibiscus ran after his opponent. The long blades of grasses swayed and rustled in the gentle wind, giving away each Pokemon’s location as they zipped about. The Rattata crawled underneath an overturned log with a small ‘tunnel’ dug out underneath its base. Hibiscus jumped up awkwardly on top of the log and scrambled with his feet kicking and scratching his way up the side of its rough bark. Pausing as he stood on top of the overturn log, Hibiscus would watch his opponent squirrel around in the tall grasses until he had pinpointed the perfect location to pounce. When the Top Percent Rattata had looped back around, Hibiscus tackled it by jumping on top of his opponent and ramming the Rattata in the center of its back with his large skull. “Oh, your Pokemon was really clever there! Don’t worry, TopPercent Rattata, you’ve got this still!” Joey declared triumphantly, never giving up on his teammate.

Wild Encounter

---

Weather: Heatwave (Harsh Sun)

[attr="class","qkt-bkgd"]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-pkmn"]
TopPercent ♂ LV 5
HP 43% [9/19]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-pkmn"]
Hibiscus ♂ LV 5
HP 52% [11/21]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

Rattata [Guts]: -1 ATK
Hibiscus [Overgrow]: -1 DEF

SP13 Rattata used Tail Whip!
SP11 Hibiscus used Tackle!

[DarkSlayer]

The sun shone brightly overhead, and Euan could feel himself starting to get a bit hotter than he would have liked. It occurred to him that it wasn't wise to use up a ton of energy in a fight like this. But it also meant that it would be best if he actually hurried his way straight to Cherrygrove once it was done. As much as he would have liked to have stuck around for a bit longer in hopes of finding another pokemon to add to his party, he didn't think that it would be the best idea. Getting into the city and finding shelter, along with some water, definitely sounded like the better option. Euan was also beginning to think that if he didn't win this battle, it would be quite the slap in the face, given what it could potentially cost him.

He knew what his opponent's tactic was all about, and it did make him grit his teeth. After bringing his opponent's attack down, he was in a better position. But now, Hibiscus' defenses were lowered, which would counter act that initial edge that the new duo had. A bead of sweat trickled down the side of his face, and he saw how much Hibiscus seemed to be thriving in the weather, which made sense. Knowing the species to be more of a tropical flowering type of pokemon, it would absolutely love humidity and high levels of sun. But even intense heat like this would eventually begin to take its toll. For now, Euan just had to hope that he would continue to hang on to his clever antics and outwit his opponent. Maybe.

"You're doing a great job, Hibiscus!" The bulbasaur seemed to delight in this positive feedback, beaming down upon its current opponent. "Now, don't let him get away from you! Use another one of your vine whip attacks!"

Determined to continue meeting his trainer's approval, the grass type cracked its vines to the sides again, ready to smash through any logs that the rattata might try hiding in. But he was sure that after a tail whip, a different kind of attack would be coming. One that was much more physical. A real attack meant to detract from his overall health and readiness in battle. Would things work out for him and Euan alright, or was he going to end up being in dire straits now? He narrowed his eyes at the powerful rattata, hoping to see success across the finish line. One way or another.

Euan had already logged it in the back of his mind that Jasmine had a steelix in her repertoire. That would probably be a very strong pokemon to go up against. He actually didn't know a whole lot about them, truth be told. Just that they were the evolved form of onix, tougher than before, and very big. "Well I will eventually battle her, so we'll see!" Because he was going to reach Olivine City someday. He didn't know when exactly. All he knew was that he had the drive to go the distance. Or at least he did if it would get him closer to solving the mystery of his brother's murder.

Hibiscus uses Vine Whip!

[Caramell 🍬]

The youngster was overly excited with how the battling was turning out. His eyes brimmed with excitement while the temperature rose, causing the heat to weigh down on them in thick waves. Joey gripped the collar of his shirt and pulled on it as he fidgeted uncomfortably. “It’s like…really hot! Momma doesn’t like it if I stay out too long when it’s too hot…” He half-muttered to himself, half-told Euan. “But, we’ll do our best to make sure we hurry this up! Do you…want a cup of tea or anything, afterwards? My momma makes the BEST tea!” He bubbled with a sweet smile, inviting Euan over to his place as though that were natural to do with anyone and everyone you met.

“Hey, Top Percent Rattata, ready?!” The Rattata banged his tail against the ground and raised his head up high to chatter excitedly. “Am I ever! I can’t wait to go home. Momma makes the best treats! You should come over and try them – she just has a way with the kitchen!” The purple rodent drooled as saliva dripped from his lips. He daydreamed of heaping piles of Pokechow poured into his bowl. “Good, boy! Let’s show Euan the best battle ever all the way until the end! Use Tackle, boy!” Rattata kicked off the ground and rammed his head into Hibiscus’ side, causing them to tumble through the tall wheatgrasses around them. Hibiscus shot out long green vines that he used to whip at the Rattata mercilessly, pounding the other Pokemon all over its body.

The Rattata squeaked loudly in pain and turned tail, running over to Joey’s side before collapsing at his feet. Joey’s eyes watered as he turned to stare at his exhausted Pokemon, before recalling it into its Pokeball. “Top Percent Rattata, noooo!” He shouted, gripping the ball tightly into his hand. “I…I can’t believe we lost…” Then, as he choked back his bruised ego and pride, he pulled out a wad of cash and walked over to Euan, thrusting the money in the older gent’s direction. “Here…for beating us…momma taught me to always pay if you lose a battle…do you want some tea, though? I gotta…just gotta…go get myself a cup!” Joey explained, inviting Euan to follow him before rushing off down a hill back towards his house.

Wild Encounter

---

Weather: Heatwave (Harsh Sun)

[attr="class","qkt-bkgd"]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-pkmn"]
TopPercent ♂ LV 5
HP 0% [0/19]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-pkmn"]
Hibiscus ♂ LV 5
HP 24% [5/21]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

Rattata [Guts]: -1 ATK
Hibiscus [Overgrow]: -1 DEF

SP13 Rattata used Tackle!
SP11 Hibiscus used Vine Whip!

---

SUCCESS!!

---

Hibiscus gained 3 levels!
Hibiscus increased to Level 8!
Hibiscus learned Growth!


Youngster Joey gave you his *mother's* hard earned cash! +£200

[DarkSlayer]

This kid really did listen to anything and everything that his mother had to say, didn't he? But could he actually be blame for that? He was obviously really young, and undoubtedly depended on her for literally everything that he wanted and even needed. Give him a few years and he would grow up to learn that not everything told to him by mommy dearest was absolutely true. Of course, he could start getting some lessons in that matter much sooner than that. Like now.

Hibiscus got hit, but that didn't seem to do anywhere near as much as was needed to stop him from whipping his opponent into... defeat. The rattata actually let out a loud squeak before running back to its trainer... and collapsing at his feet. Euan's eyebrows rose as he realized what had just happened, and then he looked up at the younger trainer, whom appeared to be in complete shock. It probably really was a shock, too, being defeated by somebody who was so new to this whole thing. Somebody who had literally never been in a real pokemon battle like this before. Now he just hoped that Joey wasn't about to start crying and going on about how he was going to tell his mother, and she would teach him a lesson.

While that thankfully didn't happen, another invitation to joining him for some of that apparently amazing tea was offered. "I think I'm going to have to pass on that," he said, really feeling like he just couldn't deal with the thought of having to drink something like tea on a day like this. He let Joey go off, and then he bent down to pat his bulbasaur, grinning. "And you did an amazing job!"

After some well earned praise, the pokemon was recalled to its pokeball where it wouldn't have to deal with the sweltering heat. Even though he could handle it much better than most, Hibiscus still wouldn't end up being at the top of his shape if he continued staying out in it. Meanwhile, Euan made his way to some water not too far off, stripping down to his under shorts and wading out into it. He pretended that there was nothing to worry about in it - that no pokemon were going to start nibbling on him or anything like that. Ten minutes were spent soaking in the much cooler water, dunking his head underneath and cooling down before getting out. With no towel to speak of, he stayed out in the sun, letting it dry him off considerably before he put his clothes back on.

Euan gave a soft sigh, getting his stuff together before he began walking towards Cherrygrove City again. He still had quite some time before night would fall thankfully. Which meant that he could still come across another pokemon that he might be able to catch. By that time, he hoped that Hibiscus would be well rested and ready for another battle. Preferably with something that wasn't quite as off the charts as their previous opponent.

[Tarlar]

Nothing came and bit Euan's rear while he bathed, but pokemon also weren't known for sneaking up on others like that. Some might be aggressive but that was usually because they felt threatened in one way or another, or were territorial.
Route 29 didn't have much else in the water than magikarps and Euan surely would surely survive getting splashed on if that should happen.

The dip would be refreshing but the heat was still high and kept most wild pokemon hiding in the shades and since Euan didn't actively looked by pushing branches aside and check all holes for secrets.
"Get lost!" A female voice demanded, and it came from behind some trees. It was a teenager, dressed for the outdoors and with a sentret hiding behind her leg.
"I don't want to battle you! It's too hot and you are too small, I will not risking any of my pokemon getting a heatstroke," she scolded to the little wurmple who flailed beggingly in front of her.
"For the last time, stop following me and leave me be!" She snapped and spun around, the sentret sent a worried glanced at the bug and hurried after its trainer as she walked briskly away. The wurmple started to follow but then noticed Euan and stopped, it looked between the departing human and the arriving human, and it only took it a few seconds to make up its mind.

"Wuuurmple!" It called out and crawled over to stand in the way of Euan, it rose itself proudly, showing him its side and tried to look as big and strong as possible. "Wurmple!" It said determined and nodded its horn at him in an attempt to challenge him to a battle.

Wurmple [Lv 2] wants a chance to prove itself and challenges you.
Do you accept?

Shiny: zvHaIw561-421-42

[DarkSlayer]

With the weather still as intense as it was, he knew that it was definitely best to try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Thankfully, given the nature of the route, it wasn't too difficult to do that, staying along the very edge where trees were, branches hanging over and offering shade with the protection of their leaves. At least something out here could appreciate all of the sun that was coming down on them all.

Euan wasn't looking all that hard whatsoever. Truth be told, he knew that there were plenty of wild pokemon out there, so he was sure it wouldn't take too long to find one. But he probably should have realized that being as hot as it was, it wouldn't be as easy as it normally may have been. Still, he eventually heard the sounds of something nearby, and following it picked up on the fact that it was yet another person. Maybe somebody else that was looking to get to Cherrygrove City as well? He knew that it wasn't Joey because, for one, it definitely sounded like somebody far more feminine, and for two, he was probably still at home. Possibly crying to his mom about how he had lost a battle against a brand new trainer, and how that trainer probably wasn't even new and was lying so he could dupe him into a match and beat him. Or maybe Euan was characterizing the boy a little more whiny than he really was.

Coming around the group of trees, it became clear very quickly what was going on here, and Euan looked at the sentret. How long had it been out of its pokeball? If she was so concerned about it getting over heated, wasn't the most obvious solution to simply... put it back? Of course that was even assuming that the pokemon had a pokeball, but with the way that it followed after her, he had to assume that it did. He opened his mouth to say something, but then thought better of it, not wanting to start a verbal confrontation with somebody who seemed to be a bit more hot under the collar than one should be.

"That was kind of rude," he mumbled, more so to himself than anyone else. He was going to leave himself when the wild pokemon saw him and made a little bit of a show of itself, obviously trying to get him to battle it. And Euan really wanted to say no as well, for the same reasons that the girl had said. But at least his pokemon had been in its ball for a little while now...

"Very well, I guess I can entertain this," he said, pulling Hybiscus' ball out and pushing the button. "Looks like this little guy really wants to battle. So let's start things off simple, okay? Use growth!"

Oh, its brand new move! Yes, yes, he could certainly do that. "Look at me!" he said in excitement to the wurmple. Focusing his energy, his bulb seemed to grow in size, showing a bit of an increase in power.

Hybiscus used Growth!

[Caramell 🍬]

The heat droned on in waves that washed over the land. It was so stifling that it made even breathing in it feel almost laborious. The Pokemon that hadn’t rushed off for shelter by burrowing into their tunnels and disappearing into the holes inside of the trunks of the nearby trees would gather around the edge of the water. Some were cautious, though, and stared from side to side for any signs of danger. The previous girl’s loud voice scared most of them away, and they darted in a flurry of reddish-pink hues and purple hues, with some brown hues diving up into the canopies above. The small caterpillar stood up and cooed with a loud, gleeful sound when Euan called Hibiscus out of his Pokeball and waved its whole body back and forth excitedly.

“No one ever wants to battle me!” The Wurmple informed its opponent, landing back solidly on all of its many feet. “They all think I’m too weak. I want to battle so that I can prove how strong I can be! Then, maybe a trainer will see how strong I can be and take me with them on a journey!” Hibiscus stood like a statue in comparison to the small, reddish-pink caterpillar. Even though Hibiscus was double Wurmple’s size on a good day, it seemed as though the plant-like dinosaur would nearly double in size again as Hibiscus used Growth and began to literally grow on the spot. “Woah…woah…wait! Hold up, hold up!” Wurmple shouted fearfully, spitting long sticky strings out of its mouth everywhere, coating Hibiscus’ feet to slow the other Pokemon down.

The small bug darted, skittering through the tall grasses and over the overturned logs to disappear behind the wide base of an old oak tree. It stood there for a second, nearly shaking to death. After a minute, the small bug would peer around the base of the tree with wide eyes at Hibiscus, then duck back behind the tree with a loud gulp. Then, when it was sure it was safe again, it would crawl back out and tilt its head as Hibiscus’ growth seemed to wear off. “Oh… that was a move that made you grow? Cool! When did you learn that?!” The Wurmple asked Hibiscus curiously as it slowly crawled closer towards its opponent. What happened to showing a future trainer it was worthy to being captured by them one day…?

Wild Encounter

---

Weather: Heatwave (Harsh Sun)

[attr="class","qkt-bkgd"]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-pkmn"]
Wurmple LV 2
HP 100% [14/14]

[attr="class","qkt-wild-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-pkmn"]
Hibiscus ♂ LV 8
HP 100% [27/27]

[attr="class","qkt-trainer-imgbox"]

[attr="class","qkt-pkmn-img"]

Wurmple [Shield Dust]: Normal
Hibiscus [Overgrow]: Normal [+1 Att, +1 Sp. Att, -1 Sp.]

SP14 Hibiscus used growth! Hibiscus grew stronger!
SP6 Wurmple used String Shot! Hibiscus' speed fell!

[DarkSlayer]

It was absolutely not this trainer's intention to catch this little bug. Much like the girl before, he really didn't think that this was all that worthwhile for anybody involved. But the wurmple had been so insistent that he figured it might be easier to just do the battle and get a little bit more experience. And he was really handling this battle as just that - something to give him a bit more exposure to the whole lifestyle. Euan thought that he was doing alright, too, using the stat modifiers before jumping right in and attacking. You didn't want to end up putting yourself in a bad position because your opponent led with a strategy that left you completely unable to properly defend yourself. Higher attack power meant a quicker end to things, didn't it?

Seeing the bug pokemon take off the way that it did, Euan raised an eyebrow. Did Hibiscus seriously scare it off that badly with its sudden growth? Okay, how did it expect to ever be able to get big and strong if it was going to run off every time another pokemon did something remotely worrying? This thing obviously needed a trainer, and bad. But could Euan really take this on and do something good with it? He really didn't want to end up with a pokemon that was going to run away at the sign of possible danger. Granted, it was just a small worm like bug, so you couldn't actually expect a whole lot out of it...

And this was how Euan went from having no intention to catch it, to suddenly deciding that it might very well end up being a good idea to take it with him. Besides, once it evolved, it would go nicely with him and Hibiscus. The plant dinosaur and its pollinating companion. What a duo that could be.

"Here's the deal. You see Hibiscus there, all big and strong and ready to take on the world. Now you already know how some trainers react to seeing you." That girl was pretty rude though. "But I'm offering you the chance of a lifetime. Instead of being left out here to learn how to handle yourself, all on your own, you can come with me. And I can do my dang best to make sure that you grow into an all powerful flying creature of fright." Euan had already started to work out what he wanted to get this wurmple to evolve into. "You just have to be able to trust me and Hibiscus here. And do your best to be the greatest you that you can be!"

Looking between his trainer and the potential teammate, Hibiscus giggled a bit. "He sure is being a bit dramatic, isn't he? But I'm sure that he means everything that he just said. Oh! See, there's a pokeball!" And sure enough, one was tossed just a little bit off to the wurmple's side. "What do you say? Want to join our team? You'd be his very first capture you know. Just think of that. All of the bragging rights about how you convinced him to take you as his number one catch. Plus obviously the growing up into a big, strong... er... whatever it is you'll evolve into."

Euan and Hibiscus are offering to take Wurmple onto the team and get him all trained up!