Chapter 505: Axe Pokémon
~Third POV~
[Sinnoh Region, Nighttime, Pastoria City – Grand Pastoria Hotel]
The humid, earthy scent of the Great Marsh still clung faintly to their clothes as the quartet emerged onto the bustling streets of Pastoria City. The transition was immediate and jarring. From the squelching mud and rustling reeds, they were suddenly amidst paved roads, vibrant market stalls, and the distant, rhythmic thrum of urban life.
Towering above the city's charming, albeit slightly damp, aesthetic stood the Grand Pastoria Hotel, a beacon of refined elegance. Its polished brass doors gleamed under the afternoon sun, reflecting the crisp, blue sky and the occasional passing Pelipper. Azure, his Pikachu perched alertly on his shoulder, and Eevee nestled comfortably on his head, glanced at the opulent facade.
A tiny cry from his pocket confirmed Pichu (Mew) was still snoozing soundly, oblivious to the grandeur. Beside him, Platinum adjusted the strap of her travel bag, her expression a mix of weary relief and a hint of the usual Berlitz composure.
Diamond, ever the pragmatist when it came to comfort, let out a contented sigh. He exclaimed, his stomach rumbling a soft growl in agreement, "Finally! Proper beds and a real meal!"
Pearl, predictably, was already buzzing with energy, exclaimed, "Alright, let's get checked in! We've got a Gym battle to plan!"
The hotel lobby was a symphony of hushed luxury. Soft jazz music drifted from concealed speakers, mingling with the gentle clink of teacups from a nearby lounge and the rhythmic tap-tap of a bellhop's polished shoes.
Marble floors gleamed, reflecting ornate chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow over plush velvet seating. The air, conditioned and subtly perfumed, was a welcome relief from the marsh's stickiness.
A polite desk attendant greeted them, her smile as polished as the lobby itself, "Good afternoon, esteemed guests."
Azure handled the check-in, his tone calm and efficient, while Diamond was already eyeing a display of local pastries with a wistful look. Platinum, after a brief nod to the staff, turned to her companions once they had their room keys.
She stated, her voice clear despite the ambient noise, "Our primary objective here in Pastoria City is for Azure and me to obtain our fifth Gym Badge from Crasher Wake. We must strategize our training and ensure our Pokémon are in peak condition."
Pearl pumped a fist as he exclaimed happily, "Right! He's a Water-type specialist, so Azure's Electabuzz and H-Liligant, and your Gloom, Platinum, will be key! My Luxray and Tauros are ready to help!"
Diamond nodded, already visualizing the battles. He chimed in, pulling out a Poké Ball, "And don't forget the new guys! Come on out, Branch!"
*Pop*
With a bright flash, a majestic Tropius materialized, its broad, leafy wings spanning almost the width of the main lobby before Diamond quickly recalled it, a blush rising on his cheeks. He chuckled sheepishly, "Oops! Maybe not here!"
Azure offered a small smile as he said casually, "No worries, Dia. We can introduce them properly in the room."
Their suite was, as expected, lavish. Two spacious rooms connected by an archway, each adorned with elegant furnishings, fluffy beds, and a large window offering a panoramic view of the city.
*Click*
*Thud*
As soon as the door clicked shut behind them, signaling privacy, the atmosphere shifted from formal to familiar. Bags were dropped with soft thuds, and everyone stretched, savoring the comfort.
Diamond announced, this time more carefully, "Alright, new team members, time to meet everyone!"
*Pop*
He released Branch once more, the large Grass/Flying-type materializing with a gentle whoosh. Branch, a female Tropius, ruffled her leafy neck frill, her fruit-laden neck swaying slightly as she took in her new surroundings with curious, intelligent eyes.
Dia's other Pokémon, including Lax the Munchlax, Tru the Torterra, and Sol the Flareon, emerged from their Poké Balls with cheerful Pokémon cries, greeting Branch with enthusiastic nudges and sniffs. Lax, true to form, immediately began investigating the fruit on Branch's neck, much to the Tropius's amused delight.
Pearl, not one to be outdone, released her newest acquisition as he declared, "Coco, meet the gang!"
*Pop*
A small, green Exeggcute, Coco, hatched from her Poké Ball with a startled cry, "Exegg! (Sup big boys!)"
Each of her six heads wobbled slightly as she looked around, her eyes wide. Chatler, Pearl's Chatot, immediately chirped a welcoming tune, while Chimlar, the Infernape, playfully tapped one of Coco's heads.
*Pop*
Platinum released her Gloom, the Grass/Poison-type materializing with a distinctly pungent aroma that immediately began to permeate the otherwise fresh air of the room. She said, trying to ignore the faint wrinkle of Azure's nose and Pearl's exaggerated gulp of air, "Everyone, this is… Gloom."
Her other Pokémon, including Empoleon, Ponyta, and Lopunny, greeted Gloom with varying degrees of enthusiasm, though even Empoleon seemed to subtly shift away from the strongest part of the scent.
*Pop*
Azure, in turn, released his Tangela as he said, "Everyone, say hello to our new friend Tangela in our journey!"
Tangela jiggled out of its Poké Ball, its single, glowing eye blinking with curiosity as its tendrils swayed. Pikachu leaped from Azure's shoulder, giving Tangela a friendly zap that was more caress than attack, while Eevee rubbed against its base.
Azure's other Pokémon, Lucario, Infernape, Gallade, and even the formidable Alpha Rhyhorn, emerged silently, giving Tangela a collective, dignified nod of welcome, their powerful presences filling the room. Pichu (Mew) finally decided to peek out of Azure's pocket, its tiny eyes blinking before it quickly retreated into the warmth.
After the initial greetings, Azure reached into his bag, pulling out two distinctly glowing stones. He said knowingly, holding up a shimmering Leaf Stone and a radiant Sun Stone, "I thought you two might be interested in these. I have a few of these unique evolutionary stones that don't fade after a single use. Perfect for evolving your new Pokémon, if you wish."
Pearl's eyes widened, practically sparkling as he agreed happily, "A Leaf Stone for Coco? To an Exeggutor? Awesome! That'd give her a Psychic-type too, super useful against Poison-types in the Marsh or even some Water-types!"
He immediately scooped up the Leaf Stone, his excitement palpable as he said, "Coco, what do you say?"
Coco's various heads nodded vigorously, cries clearly eager for the transformation, "Exegg! Exegg! (You son of a bitch! I'm in!)"
Platinum's gaze, however, lingered on the Sun Stone. She murmured, looking from the stone to her Gloom, who was happily swaying, oblivious to the faint green cloud now surrounding her, "A Sun Stone..."
Platinum swallowed, a flicker of an internal debate crossing her features, 'On one hand, Gloom is a loyal and capable Pokémon. On the other... that smell.'
Evolving into a Bellossom would not only grant her a pure Grass-type, but her Hidden Ability, Stench, would transform into Healer, a far more supportive and, crucially, odorless attribute. The thought of not having to subtly hold her breath around her Pokémon filled her with profound, almost giddy relief.
Yet, she quickly reigned in the thought, not wanting to betray any hint of her olfactory discomfort to Gloom. She said calmly, regaining her composure, "Indeed. A Bellossom would be an excellent strategic addition to my team, offering varied support capabilities and a graceful fighting style. Gloom, would you like to evolve?"
Gloom, despite her pungent aura, seemed to sense Platinum's desire and the potential for a new form. Her single, large eye gazed up at Platinum with trust, and she let out a happy cry, swaying more emphatically, "Gloom! Gloom! (Of course, my lady!)"
Azure handed the Sun Stone to Platinum, who accepted it with a grateful nod. He said happily, "Excellent. The sooner they adapt to their new forms, the better prepared we'll be for Gym Leader Wake."
While Pearl and Platinum prepared their Pokémon for evolution, Azure turned his attention to another of his team members. Scyther a powerful Bug/Flying-type, had been watching the proceedings with keen interest, its scythes occasionally twitching. Scyther had always been a formidable fighter, but Azure knew there was another path available to it.
Azure began, his voice calm, grabbing Scyther's attention, "Scyther, I have something for you as well, should you choose a different evolution."
He reached into a separate compartment of his bag, retrieving a dark, jagged stone that seemed to absorb the light around it – a Black Augurite. Scyther's head tilted, its eyes narrowing, sensing something in its blood.
Its gaze flickered to Azure's bodyguard team, specifically resting on Scizor, the red, metallic-bodied Bug/Steel-type. Scizor, ever vigilant, stood quietly in a corner, its pincers crossed over its chest.
A silent challenge passed between them, a history of sparring and rivalry. Scyther had always aspired to surpass Scizor when it clashed against it, but to simply follow the same evolutionary path felt uninspired, a mere imitation.
This Black Augurite, however, offered an entirely different trajectory, a path to power forged in raw rock and sharp edges rather than polished steel. A path that would allow it to stand apart, truly unique.
A low, guttural shriek escaped Scyther's mandibles – a sound of contemplation, then resolute decision, "Scyyyther!! (I agree! I shall defeat my rival on my own terms! I won't follow his path but my own as a warrior!)"
It nodded, its scythes scraping lightly against each other, a sharp clack. It wanted nothing more than to prove itself, to conquer its rival on its own terms.
Azure said, his eyes reflecting a knowing understanding, "Very well."
He held out the Black Augurite as he said, "Take it, my friend."
Scyther took the Black Augurite, gripping it tightly in one of its scythes. A surge of energy immediately coursed through its body. Simultaneously, Pearl held the Leaf Stone to Coco, and Platinum held the Sun Stone to Gloom.
*FLASH*
A brilliant flash erupted around Scyther. The air in the room crackled with kinetic energy. Its green chitin began to shift and darken, replaced by rugged, volcanic rock.
Its lithe form bulked up, shoulders widening, and the sharp scythes transformed into massive, axe-like blades, their edges jagged and formidable. A deep rumble emanated from its evolving form, accompanied by the sound of grinding stone and splintering chitin. Scyther was no more…
*THUD*
In its place stood Kleavor, a Hisuian rock-axe Pokémon, its powerful body now a formidable blend of Bug and Rock, its new axes gleaming menacingly, catching the light with a primal, untamed strength. A triumphant roar echoed through the suite, a declaration of its new identity, "KLEAAAAAAVOR!"
At that very instant, as if in a synchronized ballet of elemental power, the Leaf Stone in Pearl's hand began to glow with a soft, emerald light, encircling Coco. The six small Exeggcute heads began to merge and grow, sprouting a long, segmented neck and a much larger, singular dominant head.
*FLASH*
Leafy fronds burst forth, transforming into a magnificent, palm-like crown atop its head. The air filled with a sweet, vegetal aroma as Coco evolved into the towering, majestic Exeggutor, its Psychic power crackling faintly around its new form.
It bellowed happily, its powerful body now filling a significant portion of the room, "EXEGGUUUU!"
*FLASH*
And just as Coco finished its transformation, the Sun Stone in Platinum's grip pulsed with a warm, golden radiance, enveloping Gloom. The vibrant light washed over the Grass/Poison-type, melting away its pungent exterior.
The large, red petals folded inwards, new, smaller, more delicate green leaves unfurled, and its body streamlined into a graceful, hula-skirt-like form. The heavy aroma evaporated, replaced by the faint, sweet scent of blooming flowers.
With a joyous tinkle and a graceful twirl, Gloom became Bellossom, a pure Grass-type, its red-orange petals forming a crown, its blue body swaying with innate elegance. It sang, dancing lightly on its toes, its Hidden Ability, Healer, already humming with subtle, restorative energy, "Bellossom! Bellossom!"
Platinum let out a silent, almost imperceptible sigh of pure, unadulterated relief, her smile genuine and unforced. Diamond, who had been watching the triple evolution with wide-eyed wonder, erupted into applause and congratulated them, "Whoa! That was amazing! Kleavor! Exeggutor! Bellossom! You guys look incredible!"
Lax, Tru, and Sol joined in with their own excited cries and chuffs. Pearl, beaming, wrapped his arms around one of Exeggutor's sturdy legs as he said, "Coco, you're huge! And strong! I told ya I help you evolve!"
Platinum, her eyes sparkling with uncharacteristic glee, watched Bellossom perform a delicate pirouette as she was in awe of her cute Pokémon, "Bellossom, you are magnificent! Such grace, such poise!"
She then discreetly took a deep, clear breath, reveling in the fresh air as she thought, 'And you don't smell bad for me to keep you at home! Thank goodness…'
Azure nodded, a pleased expression on his face. He turned to Pearl and Platinum as he said calmly, "Congratulations, all of you. These evolutions will undoubtedly strengthen our teams significantly." You can return the stones. They'll be ready for another use when the time comes."
Pearl, still buzzing with excitement, gently placed the Leaf Stone back into Azure's outstretched hand as he thanked him, "Thanks, Azure! These are amazing!"
Platinum returned the Sun Stone as she thanked him as well, "My sincerest gratitude, Azure. This transformation is... truly beneficial."
The unspoken and odor-free' hung pleasantly in the air between them. With the newly evolved Pokémon now acclimating to their forms, the group reconvened. Kleavor, after its initial roar, had settled down, its powerful frame radiating a serene confidence, its eyes still holding a spark of competitive fire directed at Scizor, who returned the gaze with an approving nod.
Exeggutor gently swayed, its new height making it a noticeable presence, while Bellossom continued to perform joyful, spontaneous dances. Platinum began, her voice regaining its usual analytical tone, "Alright! Given these significant changes, we must dedicate the next five days to intensive training. Kleavor, Exeggutor, and Bellossom must become fully accustomed to their new bodies, abilities, and move sets. We need to ensure their responsiveness in battle, especially ahead of facing Gym Leader Wake."
Pearl cheered, already imagining the rigorous sessions, "Five days of hardcore training! That sounds perfect! My Chimlar can spar with Kleavor, and Alakazam can help Exeggutor with its Psychic moves!"
Diamond, ever practical, pulled out a small notebook and added, "And I can work on Branch's flying maneuvers and make sure she's comfortable with her new teammates. And I'll make sure everyone eats well during training!"
Azure nodded in agreement with Platinum's plan as he stated, "Indeed. Five days will allow us to refine their techniques, understand their new strengths, and prepare for Wake's Water-type Pokémon. We'll focus on synergy and individual growth. My Hisuian Liligant can help Bellossom with her dance-like attacks, and my Alpha Rhyhorn can test Kleavor's new defenses."
A sense of renewed purpose settled over the group. The Grand Pastoria Hotel, a sanctuary of comfort, was now also a strategic base. From its luxurious rooms, they would forge stronger bonds, hone new powers, and prepare to challenge the formidable Gym Leader Wake, their eyes set firmly on that elusive fifth badge.
Azure smirked, satisfied with their growth. Then, he checked on Kleavor's status info, knowing what to learn.
[Kleavor the Axe Pokémon. Kleavor is an Evolution of Scyther caused by Black Augurites, which are said to originate from volcanic regions in Hisui but are now extremely rare. The stones that adorn Kleavor's body often get chipped during fierce fights; larger chips are a sign that it is experienced in battle.
Stone shards that fell off Kleavor during the battle were known to have been collected and used by the settlers of Hisui to craft tools. Kleavor is known to be very hostile, and it is best avoided if ever encountered in the wild. Kleavor's nature is described as rough, crude, and violent. Kleavor is implied to be at the brink of extinction in the present day.
A special Kleavor is worshiped by the Hisui people as it is descended from one of the ten ancient Pokémon blessed by Arceus. In particular, he is one of the Noble Pokémon who reside in Obsidian Fieldlands, watched by the warden Lian. Kleavor is the only known Pokémon capable of learning the move Stone Axe.]
|Name: Kleavor (Axe Pokémon)
|Type: Bug/Rock
|Tera: Bug
|Level: 41
|Held Item: [Stone/Insect Plate]/[Muscle Band]/[Scope Lens]
|Gender: Male
|Ability: Sharpness (Hidden Ability)
|Nature: Serious
|Moves: Protect, Detect, Agility, Double Team, Focus Energy, Roost, Swords Dance, Smack Down [A][S],Rock Slide [A][S], X-Scissor [A][S], Bug Buzz [A][S], Silver Wind [A][S], U-Turn [A][S], Fury Cutter [A][S], Aerial Ace [A][S],Air Slash [A][S], Slash [A][S], Cross Poison [A][S], Psycho Cut [A][S], Quick Attack [A][S], Razor Wind [A][S], Pursuit [A][S], Brutal Swing [A][S], Knock Off [A][S], Stone Axe [A][S] (IM), Counter (EM) (1 Moves to learn)
Azure smiled lightly, bobbing his head as he thought happily, 'Good. Seems like it's evolved, it learned some Rock Moves. Good thing I taught it some slash moves it needs for its Sharpness ability in advanced.'
Having been satisfied, he turned his eyes to Tangela playing with Shellos as he thought, 'During the next 5 days, I should focus on their growth. I could get them to level 35-40 range in that short amount of time. We'll see…'
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A/N: Hope you like the chapter!