Chapter 459: Eterna City
~Third POV~
[Sinnoh Region, Later, Eterna Forest – Old Chateau]
The lingering scent of aged wood and forgotten memories clung to Azure's jacket, a subtle, almost imperceptible mustiness that followed him like a loyal shadow. Behind him, the imposing silhouette of the Old Chateau, now a mere whisper in the morning mist, began to fade as the group ventured deeper into Eterna Forest.
Azure walked with a confident gait, perched on his left shoulder, Pikachu, his faithful partner, twitched an ear, its bright eyes scanning the verdant canopy above. A soft, contented purr emanated from the top of Azure's head where Eevee, a fluffy, inquisitive bundle of fur, nestled comfortably, her tail occasionally brushing his cheek.
Tucked securely within the inner pocket of his jacket, a small, vibrant pink nose occasionally peeked out. This was Pichu (Mew), enjoying the warmth and security of its human's embrace.
Pearl, wrapping his arms around himself despite the mild forest air, shuddered as he yelled frustratedly, "Ugh, I still can't believe that place… All those creepy sounds and the... the dust!"
Platinum shuddered. Her elegant travelling clothes, though practical, seemed a stark contrast to the wildness of her surroundings as she added, "Truly different experience I've felt camping at a haunted manor. At least it was exciting!"
Beside her, Diamond, ever the pragmatist, patted his stomach as he muttered, "But the leftover food in the kitchen wasn't half bad, huh, Lax?"
His Munchlax, Lax, rumbled in agreement from its Poké Ball, already anticipating its next meal, "Munch! (Yup! Yummy, yummy in my tummy!)"
Pearl exclaimed, his voice high-pitched and full of indignation, a stark contrast to his spiky, energetic hair, "Diamond, how can you even think about food after encountering a ghost? It was terrifying! I nearly jumped out of my shoes!"
Chatler, his Chatot, echoed his sentiments with a squawk, flapping its tiny wings, "Squak! Scaredy cat! Scaredy cat!"
Azure offered a small, reassuring smile as he calmly addressed the Dex Holders, "It was merely a Gastly and a particularly territorial Haunter, trying to protect their home. Nothing we couldn't handle."
He kept the memory of the truly unsettling presence he felt in the deeper parts of the Chateau – something far older and more malevolent than mere ghost-types – to himself. There was no need to worry them further as he had Darkrai take care of it.
Platinum, Diamond, and Pearl were still raw, full of potential, but unseasoned by the true dangers of the world. His primary duty was to ensure their safety, especially Platinum's on his duty.
The forest path, dappled with sunlight filtering through the dense foliage, wound steadily eastward. The air, crisp and fresh with the scent of pine and damp earth, was a welcome change from the oppressive atmosphere of the old mansion.
Birds sang cheerful melodies, their calls echoing through the trees.
"Chirp! Chirp!"
Azure remarked, checking the Map App on his Arc Phone, "We should reach Eterna City by midday. Remember, the first step of the Berlitz family tradition is to gather materials from the base of Mt. Coronet. Eterna City will be our refueling point before we head to our next destination."
Platinum nodded, her expression regaining some of its usual determination as she added, "Indeed. My family's crest, infused with the essence of Sinnoh itself, will be a testament to my journey."
Diamond, meanwhile, was already distracted by a particularly large mushroom growing by the path as he muttered, "Ooh! I wonder if this one's edible!"
Pearl shrieked, clearly exasperated, "Diamond, put that down!"
Azure simply chuckled, shaking his head. This trio was certainly a handful, but their earnestness and unique personalities made the journey far from dull. He remembered his own early days, the sheer wonder and excitement of discovering this vibrant world.
He was glad to be able to share it, even as a seasoned veteran. As they finally emerged from the dense woods, the bustling sounds of Eterna City began to reach them. The rhythmic clang of a blacksmith's hammer, the laughter of children, the faint hum of machinery – it all spoke of civilization and progress.
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[Sinnoh Region, Meanwhile, Eterna Forest]
Meanwhile, in a sun-drenched patch on the outskirts of Eterna City, nestled amidst vibrant flowerbeds, Gardenia, the city's exuberant Gym Leader, was enjoying a moment of pure bliss. Her Cherubi, a small, joyful Pokémon with a second head for energy absorption, floated serenely beside her, both basking in the warmth.
Gardenia sighed, closing her eyes and taking a deep, appreciative breath, "Ah, Cherubi, isn't this lovely? The perfume of the Petalburg flowers, mixed with the fresh scent of the forest... It's just divine!"
Cherubi chirped in agreement, its small face radiating happiness, "Churu-churu! (You say it, sister!)"
Gardenia took another deep inhale, savoring the rich tapestry of botanical aromas. But then, her brow furrowed.
*Sniff*
A new scent, an intrusive note, began to infiltrate her delicate olfactory senses. It was faint at first, then grew stronger, sharper, and acrid as she murmured, "Sniff, sniff... This smell… I know this smell…"
Her eyes snapped open, a puzzled expression on her face. She sniffed again, scrunching up her nose as she muttered, "What is that... It's like... old gas. Or Lavender smell. And it's moving!"
Her head whipped around, her vibrant green hair swaying with the sudden movement. Her gaze landed on a group of five figures emerging from the Eterna Forest path: two young men, a young woman, and another young man with a Pikachu on his shoulder, an Eevee on his head, and something small peeking from his jacket.
A gasp escaped her lips. The scent, unmistakable and rather potent now, was definitely coming from them.
Gardenia called out, her voice carrying across the short distance. She began striding towards them, her Cherubi bobbing along, "Hey! You four! What in the name of the Great Tree is that smell?!"
Platinum, Diamond, and Pearl, engrossed in their own conversation about what to explore first in Eterna City, didn't even register her presence. They continued to walk, their focus entirely on the city ahead.
Gardenia huffed, a vein throbbing slightly on her forehead, "I said, hello! The audacity! To carry such a foul odour and ignore a polite greeting!"
Azure, however, had noticed her immediately. His sharp senses, honed by countless battles and experiences, picked up on her approach and her rather... distinctive aroma of various plant types.
He also registered the mild offence radiating from her. He gently nudged Diamond, who was still debating the edibility of another mushroom, with his elbow.
Azure stepped forward, a calm, polite smile on his face as he said calmly, "Excuse me, everyone. My apologies, ma'am. We've just come from exploring the Old Chateau, and one of our recent encounters there involved a few rather pungent Pokémon."
He offered a slight bow, introducing himself, "Azure Sky, at your service."
Gardenia blinked, taken aback by his politeness and the sudden, elegant introduction. Her initial irritation softened slightly. She muttered, still a bit miffed but also intrigued, "Oh, well, that explains it. Still, a simple 'hello' would suffice! And what do you mean, 'Old Chateau'? Did you fight a Gas Pokémon there?"
Then, her eyes widened as her mind rang, 'Azure Sky.'
The name echoed in her mind, a legend whispered among Pokémon researchers and trainers alike. She scrutinized his face, the intelligent eyes, the determined set of his jaw as she fully saw him and his Pokémon thought, 'The Pikachu, the Eevee... And wait, the Pichu (Mew) peeking from his jacket!'
Gardenia gasped, a hand flying to her mouth as she asked, stunned, "Wait a minute! Azure Sky? The Azure Sky? The one who... who helped bring back the Hisui Pokémon? From a different era?!"
Her voice rose in pitch, a giddy excitement bubbling up as she said happily, "The one who single-handedly brought Hisuian Lilligant and all those amazing ancient species back into Sinnoh?"
Azure gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. He wasn't one for fanfare, finding the constant attention for his past exploits a bit overwhelming at times as he said helplessly, "I merely helped facilitate their reintroduction, ma'am. The credit goes to the Pokémon and Professors themselves for adapting."
Gardenia let out a squeal of delight, completely forgetting her earlier annoyance as she exclaimed, "Oh, my Mismagius! It is you! I've read all the reports! My colleague, Professor Rowan, was practically ecstatic! And oh my, the ecological implications! The potential for new plant research!"
She practically vibrated with excitement as she whispered in awe, "A true hero of Sinnoh's natural history!"
Platinum, Diamond, and Pearl, who had finally registered the commotion, exchanged bewildered glances. They all knew that Azure brought back the Hisuian Era Pokémon from Roark.
Azure, ever composed, simply smiled as he deftly redirected the conversation, sensing his companions' shock, "It's a long story, but perhaps we can discuss it later. For now, Gardenia, you mentioned a Gas Pokémon, correct?"
Gardenia snapped out of her fan-girl moment, though a pleased flush remained on her cheeks as she said bluntly, "Oh, right! Yes! Did you fight a Gas Pokémon, like a Gastly or a Haunter, perhaps?"
Azure confirmed with a light nod, explaining, "Indeed. A Gastly and a Haunter were residing in the Old Chateau. We encountered them yesterday evening."
Gardenia's face blanched. Her cheerful demeanor instantly vanished, replaced by a look of sheer, unadulterated horror. Her voice was barely a whisper as she uttered, "The Old Chateau?! You mean that Old Chateau? The one always shrouded in mystery and filled with... with ghosts?!"
*Gulp*
She trembled visibly, her hands clutching at her chest as she explained, "Oh, the fright of it all! I've always wanted to investigate that place myself, you know! For botanical research, of course! See what rare mosses grow on ancient walls! But I just... just haven't gotten around to it yet!"
She punctuated her denial with a frantic wave of her hands. She quickly added, her eyes darting away nervously, saying, "And it's certainly not because I'm too scared to visit! Definitely not! I just have a very busy schedule, you see!"
Azure exchanged an amused glance with Platinum. It was clear the Gym Leader was terrified of the place.
Azure said calmly, his eyes twinkling slightly, "It was quite an experience. But nothing I couldn't handle."
Gardenia stared at him, her fear momentarily overshadowed by awe, and asked, "You... you defeated a ghost? In the Old Chateau? With your Pokémon?"
She looked him up and down, a newfound respect dawning in her eyes as she said happily, "Well, I'll be a Sunflora! That's incredibly impressive! Not many trainers can say they've taken on the spirits of that place and emerged victorious."
She puffed out her chest, a proud grin stretching across her face as she introduced herself properly, "Speaking of impressive trainers and battling, you know, I happen to be Eterna City's Gym Leader! Gardenia's my name, don't wear it out!"
This declaration, delivered with an almost theatrical flourish, finally grabbed Platinum, Diamond, and Pearl's full attention. Their jaws collectively dropped.
*Gasp*
Pearl shrieked, pointing a trembling finger at her, "Gym Leader?! You mean, we're talking to a Gym Leader?!"
Diamond, his eyes now glued to Gardenia, seemed to forget entirely about his mushroom as he muttered, "Whoa! That's awesome!"
Platinum, ever the composed one, managed a polite, though slightly stunned, nod, and greeted her respectfully, "It's an honor to meet you, Gym Leader Gardenia."
Gardenia beamed, enjoying their surprised reactions. She then turned her attention back to Azure, her expression serious but still with a hint of mischievousness as she asked, "So, Mr. Sky, I assume you're here to challenge my Gym for this year's Sinnoh League Tournament, correct?"
Azure nodded as he explained with a knowing grin, "That's the plan. I'm currently training a new team, focusing on broadening my type coverage. And I've found myself rather lacking a decent Grass-type to fill a crucial role."
A wide, knowing grin spread across Gardenia's face. She clapped her hands together, a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she said, "Well, isn't that just a convenient coincidence! Since you were so polite, and you managed to conquer the horrors of the Old Chateau – which I totally wasn't scared of, mind you – I'll tell you what!"
She leaned in conspiratorially, though her voice still carried, "As a thank you for your bravery, and for helping bring back those amazing Hisuian Pokémon lost to time, I'll let you take your pick of a Grass-type Pokémon in the Breeder's Building right here in Eterna City! And…"
She added, straightening up with a knowing grin, "I'll also set you up with an appointment for a Gym Challenge whenever you're ready!"
Azure's eyes lit up. This was an unexpected but incredibly welcome boon. He then glanced at Platinum as he replied, "That's very generous of you, Gym Leader Gardenia. I accept your offer. If you don't mind, Gym Leader, Platinum is also challenging the Gyms for experience on her journey. Would it be possible for her to also have an appointment for a Gym Challenge?"
Platinum looked surprised, then grateful, her eyes meeting Azure's. He was always looking out for her.
Gardenia waved a dismissive hand as she agreed happily, "Of course! The more the merrier! Consider it done!"
She chuckled, already imagining the battles ahead as she declared, "Alright then, follow me, everyone! Eterna City awaits!"
/////
[Sinnoh Region, Later, Eterna City – Breeder's Center]
The bustling energy of Eterna City enveloped them as Gardenia led the way, navigating the lively streets with the familiarity of a local. The aroma of freshly baked goods mingled with the metallic tang from the bike shop and the earthy scent of the Pokémon Center's healing garden.
Pokémon of all kinds wandered freely or frolicked in designated parks, their calls creating a vibrant symphony. Azure said calmly, turning to Platinum, Diamond, and Pearl as they reached a fork in the road, one path leading towards the main shopping district, the other towards a quieter, residential area, "Alright, you three. Gardenia will be taking me to the Breeder's Center now. You should find suitable accommodation for the night and remember to check in with me at regular intervals. Be careful, and try not to get into too much trouble."
He gave Diamond a pointed look. Diamond, however, was already eyeing a nearby street vendor selling large, steaming buns as he replied casually, "Got it, Azure! We'll be super careful! Right, Pearl?"
Pearl, still buzzing from the Gym Leader encounter, nodded enthusiastically, "You bet! We'll find a good spot. Good luck with getting your new Grass-type!"
Platinum gave Azure a slight bow as she said calmly, "Thank you. We will be prudent. Please inform us of your progress."
Azure replied with a reassuring smile, "Will do."
He then turned back to Gardenia as he asked politely, "We're ready when you are, Gym Leader."
Gardenia clapped her hands together once more, her Cherubi giggling beside her as she said excitedly, "Excellent! This way to the Breeder's Building! It's just a short walk around here!"
They continued down a quieter street, away from the main thoroughfare. Soon, a charming, wooden building with numerous skylights and large, flourishing planter boxes lining its exterior came into view.
The air here was distinctly different, filled with the fresh, clean scent of growing plants and a faint aura of gentle Pokémon. Gardenia announced, pushing open a heavy oak door that swung inward with a soft creak, "Here we are! The Eterna City Breeder's Building! We specialize in Grass-type and Bug-type Pokémon here, ensuring they have the best start in life before finding their perfect trainers."
Azure stepped inside, and his eyes immediately widened. The spacious interior was bathed in natural light, filtered through the skylights and the numerous green leaves of tropical plants that climbed up trellises and spilled from hanging baskets. The air was warm and humid, creating a miniature ecosystem within the building.
Inside the Breeder's Building, the humidity rose, and the air became thick with the smell of sweet nectar and damp earth. Pokémon of all shades of green scurried, hopped, and lounged amongst the planters.
A group of Budew waddled past Azure's feet, "Budew! Bud!"
*Swish*
*Swish*
A Tangela sat in a corner, its vines lazily swaying back and forth. Gardenia said, leaning against a wooden pillar, "Take your time. These are all healthy, well-bred Pokémon. Many were rescued or hatched right here in Eterna. It's important to find one that resonates with your soul, you know?"
Azure walked slowly through the rows. He looked at a Snover, but realized its Ice-typing might overlap too much with the Snorunt he was already training.
He passed a Roselia, which was elegant, but didn't quite feel right for the specific "Vibe" of his current team. Then, he saw it.
Tucked away in a quiet corner, sitting atop a large, sun-drenched leaf of a Monstera plant, was a Petilil. It was small, with a bulb-like head and three vibrant green leaves sprouting from its top.
Its large, brown eyes were wide and curious, watching him with a quiet intelligence. Unlike the boisterous Budew or the sleepy Tangela, this Petilil seemed composed, almost regal in its stillness.
Azure stopped. He felt a familiar pull—the same intuition that had led him to his partners before his instinct gnawing at him.
In his mind, Azure thought about the future. He knew that in this world, with the right exposure to the sun and the unique energies of Sinnoh—or perhaps a specific Sun Stone—this Petilil could become something extraordinary.
He thought of the Hisuian Lilligant he had seen in the ancient scrolls in Oak's Lab, the elegant dancer of the marshes. Azure said calmly, his voice quiet, "This one."
Gardenia walked over, her eyebrows raised as she answered, "A Petilil? A fine choice! They're not native to Sinnoh naturally, but due to the emergence of the Hisuian Pokémon Petilil breed here, it can evolve into its Hisuian counterpart after some intensive research. They're known for their soothing scents and incredible grace."
Azure knelt. He reached out a hand, and the Petilil didn't flinch. Instead, it hopped down from the leaf and waddled toward him, sniffing his fingers.
It chirped, its voice like a tiny bell, "Peti? Petilil! (You! You feel like the great forest!)"
It nudged its head against his palm, and Azure felt a surge of calm energy flow through him. Gardenia noted, "She's a specialized one. A bit more spirited than the others. She's been waiting for a trainer who doesn't just see a 'cute flower,' but a partner."
Azure picked up the Petilil, settling it into the crook of his arm. Pikachu leaned down from his shoulder to sniff the newcomer, "Pika? (Welcome to the team, newbie!)"
The Petilil reached up a leaf and patted Pikachu's nose, "Lili! (It's an honor, sir.)"
Azure whispered with a grin, "Welcome to the team."
[Petilil has joined the Party!]
Grabbing an empty Poké Ball from his belt, Petilil tapped on it. In seconds, it was caught in a red beam of light and caught instantly without resistance.
*BON*
Azure grinned happily as he checked Petilili's status and info. And he grinned, seeing what it could do.
[Petilil the Bulb Pokémon. The leaves on Petilil's head are very bitter, which can cause dizziness. However, these leaves possess revitalizing effects, such as restoring a person's vigor. This can be achieved by eating the leaves directly or drying and boiling them into an infusion. This infusion is also sometimes used as a bug repellent. Because of the health effects of its leaves, Petilil is very popular with the elderly.
Petilil tends to appear near sources of clean water. It lives in areas with soil abundant in moisture and nutrients. The homes can be either well-tended fields or flowerbeds. However, they will leave if the environment turns bad. This Pokémon is a female-only species with no male counterpart. In Hisui, the snowy mountainous landscape causes Petilil to gain the Fighting type when it evolves into Lilligant.]
|Name: Petilil (Bulb Pokémon)
|Type: Grass
|Tera: Grass
|Level: 20
|Gender: Female
|Held Item: None
|Ability: Own Tempo
|Nature: Jolly
|Moves: Growth, Helping Hand, Recover, Synthesis, Stun Spore, Poison Powder, Sleep Powder, Aromatherapy, Leech Seed, Absorb, Leafage, Mega Drain, Magical Leaf, Endure (IM), Healing Wish (EM) (2 Moves left to learn)
Azure had found his new Grass-type. He smiled as he thought, 'With Petilil as my grass roster for Sinnoh, I should prepare myself for the next Gym ahead. And time to evolve my team while I'm at it…'
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A/N: Hope you liked the chapter! And quick question... how strong would you like Cyrus to be?