CHAPTER 9 - TIMOTHY & DIANA
Janice and Ricky return to find Sharon standing outside the diner, waiting for them. The boy runs over to his mother, showing her the PokeBall he holds in his hand. Sharon meets him for a big hug, relieved and happy to see that everything worked out. She sees Janice and extends a hand in gratitude.
Sharon: Thank you again for helping Ricky out. No more trouble from those boys?
Janice: (shakes her hand) No more trouble, I highly doubt they'll be back here again.
Sharon raises her eyebrows in surprise.
Sharon: You beat all three of them??
Ricky: She did, Mom (big grin) she battled each of them.
Sharon looks from Ricky to Janice, at first unbelieving, then she realises that neither of them seems to be joking. Now she's impressed.
Sharon: And here I actually thought it would've been best if you had some backup. That must be quite a team of Pokemon you got there.
Janice: (smiles) They were more than enough to help me through.
Sharon: Is there any way we can repay you?
Janice gently taps her Bag.
Janice: I still haven't had the chance to sit down and have the lunch you prepared (laughs) so maybe that can count as payment. Otherwise, don't worry about it, I wanted to help.
Ricky: Are you staying for long?
Janice: Only to have lunch and then I'm back on the road again since my next destination isn't very far away from here. (turns to Sharon) Holder City?
Sharon: (nods) Yeah, just a couple of hours between here and there.
Ricky's hopeful face clouds over as he looks down at the ground under his feet, saddened. Janice gets on one knee in front of him, concerned.
Janice: Hey now, what's wrong?
Ricky: I thought that you were sticking around...and maybe help me train Growlithe...
He looks up to meet her eyes.
Ricky: It was really cool how you battled those guys and won, so I was thinking that if I could learn from you, maybe I'll become a better Trainer.
She wants to respond and remind him that she's still learning too, that she's a beginner Trainer and all, but Janice doesn't say anything. The look Ricky gives her is one of someone who would still want to learn from her even if she is a beginner. She looks up at Sharon with a pleading look, who doesn't know what to say. She wasn't expecting this from her son. Janice looks back at Ricky.
Janice: I don't know what I can teach you which will make you a better Trainer, because I'm not the best Trainer around anyway...but if you won't mind that, then I'll stick around. Is that okay?
Ricky's sad face brightens as he understands what Janice has said. He nods his approval eagerly.
Sharon: Are you sure, Janice? You're not pressed for time to reach Holder City?
Janice: Since it's not far from here, I don't have to rush. I can stay.
That's all good for Sharon, happy to see Ricky has cheered up. She goes back into the diner and steps out with lunch for Ricky and Growlithe. Janice and Ricky return to the Eastern Field, where they can sit down to eat. No trouble from wild Pokemon so their Pokemon can eat in peace too.
After lunch they go south onto Route 3. Ricky tells Janice that this is where he caught Growlithe.
Janice: Did you take on any other wild Pokemon after catching Growlithe?
Ricky: I was going to, but then Cliff and his friends showed up...
Janice understands. She has an idea.
Janice: How about we search for some? Let's see how Growlithe does when facing them.
She releases her Pokemon. Ricky sends Growlithe out as well.
Janice: For now, Growlithe can join up with my team. Then when you're ready to try battling on your own, we'll switch to that. Sounds good?
Ricky: Yeah, okay!
Together they step off the road and into the tall grass. They don't wait too long, the wild Pokemon appear. Janice hands Ricky her PokeDex.
Janice: Use that to find out information about Growlithe and the Pokemon we'll encounter. Learn Growlithe's moves and Ability.
Only a couple of his friends have received one since they caught their Pokemon. He is hopeful that his day will come when he'll get one too. The device identifies Growlithe and tells Ricky all about it:
Growlithe - The Puppy Pokemon
Type: Fire
Ability: Intimidate
Moves known: Ember, Leer, Howl, Bite, Flame Wheel
- Extremely loyal, it will fearlessly bark at any opponent to protect its own Trainer from harm.
Ability: Intimidate
- Lowers foes' Attack power as the Pokemon with this ability switches in.
Unlike when he got Cliff's PokeDex and battled him, Ricky feels no pressure now. He takes his time absorbing this information as Growlithe and its new friends engage their opponents. Growlithe is patient, taking its time as well to keep up with its Trainer. They work well together with Janice's Pokemon, learning to co-ordinate attacks and back each other up or trade targets when there are foes who prove too much. Eventually Ricky has built enough confidence to try and face the wild Pokemon on his own. Janice sends back her team into their PokeBalls, leaving Pidgey to perch on her left shoulder as they watch over the boy and his friend.
That is how the rest of the afternoon is spent. Not once did Janice worry about the time, enjoying Ricky's company and watching the progress he made during those hours. She was there to heal up Growlithe when it needed to be and offer tips if Ricky had trouble with one or two Pokemon. By the end of the daytime period and the start of the evening, Growlithe has defeated all its opponents with only a couple of moves and levelled up. Trainer and Pokemon have found their groove. This is also when Janice finally makes note of the time, shocked to realise that they were out here all along.
Janice: I can't believe it's evening already!
Ricky can't help but laugh, getting a comical look of false anger from her.
Janice: What are you laughing at, it's not funny! (shakes her head) I said I would stick around, but it was supposed to be for a few hours and then I'd be on my way.
Ricky: But we were having so much fun!
Janice: (sighs and smiles) Yeah we sure did, eh? You've gotten pretty good, taking on those wild Pokemon by yourself like that. You should be proud of yourself and Growlithe.
Ricky: Thank you for training with us. I learned at lot and had a great time too. So are you leaving town now?
Janice looks around at the darkening sky and fields. As close as Holder City may be from here, she wouldn't want to travel at night.
Janice: No, I prefer travelling during the day. So I'll leave early tomorrow morning. Where can travellers spend the night in Debbie Town?
Ricky: The Pokemon Center has plenty of spare rooms for people who want to stay over. Or...
She looks at him, eyebrow raised.
Janice: Or...?
Ricky: (grins) ...you could stay over at our place?
Janice: !!
Ricky: Mom should be closing up the diner by now, I can ask her for you if you'd like?
Janice: I...I'm not sure Ricky, wouldn't that be a bother? I'm only someone you met today, you know?
Ricky: Yeah, but someone who not only helped me and my friends get back our Pokemon but who also helped me and Growlithe train. It's no bother at all Janice. Come on!
He's already jogging off back into town. Janice wonders about this for a moment, before telling him to wait up and follows after him with Pidgey.
Ricky and Janice find Sharon locking up the front door of the diner as the last crew of waiters and waitresses head home. She's glad to see Ricky is back just in time...but then so is Janice..?
Sharon: Hey there son, how was your day? And Janice? Dear, you're still here? I thought you would be gone by now. What happened?
Ricky: We were too busy training, Mom! (looking pleased)
Sharon: Oh? How did that go?
Janice: It went well...maybe a little too well, given what time it is. (embarrassed smile) So I'll be spending the night here and I'll head out early.
Ricky: Could she stay over with us, Mom? Please??
Janice: Ricky told me about the PokeCenter having--
Sharon: You are more than welcome to spend the night over with us, Janice, it's alright. Besides, it means we'll have a guest joining us for supper, so why not? (big smile) I'm sure you enjoyed lunch, wait till you try what I whip up next. What do you say?
Ricky turns to Janice and gives a thumbs up. She is truly grateful for this.
Janice: Okay, if it's alright. Thank you for letting me stay over.
Once the diner is all locked up for the day, the three of them go north of town to the residential area. It is dominated by rows of large, identical townhouses that stand side by side. Most lights are on, same with televisions, radios, computers and many other machines and appliances. People have come back home.
Sharon leads Janice and Pidgey to one of the two guestrooms her house has to offer, located on the first floor. Once Janice has settled in, she leaves for the kitchen. She can't help herself when she bursts into laughter after seeing Ricky geared up in an apron as he helps Sharon prepare dinner. Not only does Janice think he looks adorable but he reminds her of little brother Jerome when he's in the kitchen, either being helpful or being a menace to their mom and Jennifer. Ricky responds by getting another apron and tossing it at her, bursting into his own round of laughter when Janice sees her reward. This ropes in Sharon, giving her son a wink of approval for a well-played move. Janice puts on the apron and joins them.
About 10 minutes later the front door opens and in walks Sharon's husband and the father of Ricky. Ricky runs out of the kitchen to welcome him, looking forward to telling him about the crazy day he has had. The two of them come back to the kitchen as Ricky dives into his story. Sharon introduces him to Janice - his name is Rodney. For him this is quite the finish to his busy day, coming home to find a guest and judging from what his son has told him, Rodney can't wait to hear from her.
During supper Janice finds out that Rodney works at the Pokemon Day Care house up north along Route 4, looking after the baby Pokemon who are not yet ready to be outside with the Pokemon Breeders that help out at the Day Care. It is run by an old couple who were skilled Trainers back in their day before deciding to retire and open up the Day Care.
Rodney: It's a nice job really, I get to be around Pokemon and because the house is so close I don't have to travel very far from my family.
Janice: Aren't the baby Pokemon a handful?
Rodney: (smiles) Not at all, they spend most of their time sleeping. While they're awake they usually have each other to keep them company (laughs) I just make sure they don't play too roughly. They only become a handful once they've learned their first couple of moves, that's when they are ready to be looked after by the Pokemon Breeders.
He has no plans of becoming a Trainer, specifically of the Pokemon Breeder class. He'll leave the Trainer business to Janice and Ricky, whom he is proud of after finding out from Sharon during the day (and then from Ricky when he got home) that he caught his own Pokemon.
Rodney: So to celebrate that, I had to get a little something for our young Trainer. Close your eyes son and put your hands on the table.
Ricky does as he is told, fidgeting with excitement in his seat at the dinner table. From his pants pocket, Rodney takes out the gift and places it in Ricky's open hands.
Sharon & Janice: !!
As soon as he feels the object land on his palms, Ricky opens his eyes and looks down at it - a brand new PokeDex. His very own PokeDex.
Ricky: Thanks Dad!!!
He leaves his seat and rounds the table to hug his father, super delighted. What a day it has been for him - catching his very first Pokemon, having it taken away by strangers, having it returned to him thanks to another stranger who has become a friend and now he receives a PokeDex. Great end to an eventful day.
After supper it is Janice's turn to tell the family about her adventures so far. When she shows Ricky the Green Badge, Sharon reveals to Janice that the second Gym is located in Holder City. She had been getting to that information when Ricky stormed into the diner earlier. The Gym Leader is named Caroline, a talented young Trainer who is also a talented actress. Sharon adds that this big movie being shown tomorrow is starring Caroline, so she imagines that the woman has been having quite the time juggling her role as a Gym Leader and being a starlet, especially for this movie. This information is interesting but it makes Janice worry a little as she wonders if she'll get to meet Caroline with all the activity that will be going on around her tomorrow. Or will she get to Holder City and be told that she'll have to wait until the day after the premiere to face Caroline?
Just before bed, Janice and Ricky have some time for a chat. The boy is looking at the PokeBalls containing Janice's Pokemon.
Ricky: I still can't believe you have a Magikarp...
Janice: (laughs) It's not yet ready to compete in Trainer battles, it only learned Tackle this morning.
Ricky: Seriously??
Janice: Yup. For now it will only battle wild Pokemon. It's slowly getting better, still more losses than wins. Very first Pokemon I caught when I tried fishing a few days ago. Then Krabby.
Ricky thinks back to the battles from the afternoon and then back to the battle where he was defeated.
Ricky: You got a whole team of Pokemon...has it been tough training them all?
Janice: So far, it hasn't. I think it's because we've been working well together. My Pokemon and I are friends and we're also partners in battle. That has strengthened our teamwork. You and Growlithe displayed that today when you fought those wild Pokemon.
That makes Ricky smile, remembering what it felt like to call for a move and watch Growlithe perform without missing a beat. It was exciting, a feeling he wants to experience again as he gets better.
Janice: That's what matters - teamwork. Even when you've added more Pokemon, you'll see how much easier things will be when that connection is established. So don't worry about it, okay? (smiles) your journey has only just begun.
In the morning, Janice and Sharon are stepping out of the house. Time for Sharon to open the diner and it is time for Janice to carry on northwards.
Sharon: I'm sorry about the two of us being the last ones to leave the house (chuckles) Rodney always heads out first so that he can take his time getting to work. I guess he must've left with Ricky because the boy was gone too when I checked his room. (smiles) Already training I bet.
Janice: I thought I'd see them both before going, so I can at least say goodbye. I'll stop by the Day Care house for Rodney. What about Ricky?
Sharon: If he isn't out on Route 3, then he'll be at the Eastern Field. I hope he won't take it too hard that you're going. You've become a new friend to him.
Janice: He's become a new friend to me as well, so I won't leave without meeting him. Thanks again for letting me stay over, I enjoyed dinner and spending time with you all. It was great.
Sharon shares a hug with her.
Sharon: It was our pleasure having you as our special guest, you're welcome any time you stop by again. Thank you for what you did for Ricky. All the best for your journey, maybe you and Ricky will meet again later.
Janice: I'd like that a lot.
Sharon heads south for the diner, leaving with a wave. Janice will have to decide where she'll search first for Ricky, but before doing that she goes to the PokeMart to do some much needed shopping. Being unprepared during her battles against Cliff and company yesterday could have ended badly for her, she was lucky. She does not want a repeat of that again.
Janice enters the popular convenience store and finds that she is the only customer there. Arranging various Items on a shelf behind the counter is the owner of this place, the older gentleman named Mr Lou. At the sound of the store door sliding open, he looks behind him to see Janice.
Mr Lou: Good morning. I'll be with you in just a moment, have a look around for what you'd like.
He then continues organising the shelf, almost done. Janice takes a mini tour between the other couple of shelves in the store. They are also stocked full of Items, some she recognises and others she does not. There are also fridges which contain different kinds of drinks. She sees bottles of Soda Pop and is reminded of Marvin. This is the very first time she is in a PokeMart since becoming a Trainer, she realises. All the other times she has been in one, the PokeMart back home, Janice would be there with the Twins or Janet to buy snacks or groceries. Being here now as a Trainer has given her "new eyes" - she takes note of Items more than the regular snacks or groceries which she usually buys. It has a similar vibe to noticing Trainer Levels.
Mr Lou: Okay, that's this shelf sorted. Have you found what you would like to buy?
Upon hearing that, Janice makes her way to the counter just in time to meet the man. She places her Bag on top of the counter and opens it.
Janice: Good morning. I wanted to sell some Items first and upgrade to better ones.
Mr Lou: Sure, no problem.
Out of the Bag come the Potions, Antidotes, Awakenings, Paralyse Heals, Burn Heals and Ice Heals which were remaining. Mr Lou looks at all of them with a raised eyebrow as Janice lines them up on the counter. He can't believe the girl wants to sell all of these. He looks at Janice.
Mr Lou: What do you want to upgrade to?
Janice sees the questioning eyes he's giving her.
Janice: Umm, I was hoping to get Super Potions and Full Heals...if that's okay...?
She trails off as Mr Lou sighs and shakes his head slowly.
Janice: Are they unavailable?
Mr Lou: No, it's not that. I have Super Potions and Full Heals, if you really want them in exchange for all these Items I'll make the trade. But, could I show you other Items first? Then you can make your final decision.
Janice pauses. Other Items? Aren't Super Potions and Full Heals enough for now?? She hadn't planned on getting anything else, but she agrees to hear the man out.
Mr Lou carefully sets the Items from Janice to one side of the counter. From the shelf behind him the seller gets one Super Potion. He goes over to the fridges, opens one of them, grabs two bottles and returns to the counter. One bottle is of Fresh Water and the other one contains Soda Pop. He places the three Items down for Janice. She eyes them curiously and then looks at Mr Lou expectantly.
Mr Lou: Up to a certain level, Potions will restore all of a Pokemon's health. Then from there they only restore half and less than that as the Pokemon moves up. So most people would think that the next thing to do is switch over to Super Potions until they are no longer restoring full health too. Problem is, Super Potions are not cheap.
He points at the Fresh Water and the Soda Pop bottles.
Mr Lou: But these are. Fresh Water restores the same amount of health as a Super Potion. Soda Pop restores a little bit more than both of them but costs more than Fresh Water.
Janice: !! Really?? I didn't know even know that...I thought Super Potions were what I needed.
Mr Lou: It's fine, at least you found this out BEFORE spending your good money on a whole batch of them (smiles). On to the next Items.
He puts the Super Potion, Fresh Water and Soda Pop on the other side of the counter. From the shelf behind it he gets three new Items: one spray bottle of Full Heal, one packet of Lavaridge Town's signature Lava Cookies and one packet of Mahogany Town's specialty Rage Candy Bars. Janice's eyes sparkle with recognition when they see the Lava Cookies and the Rage Candy Bars.
Janice: (chuckles) I usually buy those as snacks with my siblings. You're going to tell me that they serve the same purpose as a Full Heal??
Mr Lou nods with a grin. He gently pats the packet of Rage Candy Bars.
Mr Lou: Way back in the day you couldn't find these being sold anywhere except in Mahogany Town. But thank goodness they became so popular as treats for people and Pokemon that they eventually made their way outside Johto. Consider yourself really lucky, young lady.
Janice: Since I buy them so often, I know that Lava Cookies are cheaper than Rage Candy Bars.
Mr Lou: Exactly. Same case here, Full Heals are not Items you can buy again and again, unless of course money ain't an issue for you. (laughs) There are other very good status condition healing Items, but because they're also popular treats I tend to run out of them. You'll come across them in other PokeMarts if you're fortunate.
Those Items are also set to the same side. The next batch of Items brought from the shelf behind him are one bottle of Hyper Potion, one bottle of Max Potion, one of Full Restore and a small box containing small crystals known as Revives and Max Revives. From the fridges he gets out a bottle of Lemonade and a bottle of Moo Moo Milk.
Mr Lou: Lemonade restores more health than a Super Potion, Fresh Water and Soda Pop. Has a slightly higher price than Fresh Water and Soda Pop but is cheaper than a Super Potion. Moo Moo Milk restores more health and costs more than all four. (points at the stronger Potions and the Full Restore) As for these, you don't have to worry about them for a while. They are for advanced Trainers who not only have to deal with fellow advanced Trainers but high level wild Pokemon too. Goes without saying that they're really expensive as well but if one insists on having some, I'd say only get enough. There'll come the time when you can afford to stock the old Bag with them.
He picks up one Revive crystal and one Max Revive crystal, holding a crystal in each hand for Janice. She is aware of the smaller crystal thanks to the basic Trainer Kit having some.
Mr Lou: Revives, which only restore half of a Pokemon's health, are pricey. Buy enough at a time. Max Revives cost double the price of Revives, they are also for advanced Trainers.
With all those Items on top of the counter, Janice has a look at them with clearer eyes. More informed now than when she arrived, she can make a wiser decision.
Several minutes later Mr Lou wishes her good luck as he watches Janice exit the store after her shopping is done. He's glad she was willing to take some time to learn. What's left is for her to make the most of it and perhaps grow to become a better Trainer.
Back out on the streets, Janice chooses to check Route 3 for Ricky first. If he and Growlithe left home this early to train, they'll be there.
But no sign of the boy and his Pokemon on Route 3 when Janice shows up. Nobody else is there but her. Just those wide open fields and the stretching road taking in the rising sun.
Janice: *I thought he would be out here. Guess he went east instead...*
She rushes back into town and goes east.
When Janice arrives at the Eastern Field she finds one person standing in the middle of it. One person and their four-legged friend by their side. There he is.
Ricky: (happy smile) Took you long enough, did you get lost??
Janice: (laughs) Nope, I went to the PokeMart first to buy some Items. Then I checked for you on Route 3, thinking you'd gone there to train. Not knowing that you were here instead until right now. (looks around) So what are you doing here then?
Ricky: I'll be going to Route 3 soon, but I wanted to see you first since you're about to leave. (sheepish grin) Ehehe, maybe I should've left a note before I went out of the house.
Janice: Yeah a note would've helped a lot, you know? I wasn't going to leave without seeing you too, that wouldn't be right. Can't go without saying goodbye to a friend.
Ricky: As your friend, I'm not going to let you say goodbye.
Janice: ?? What do you mean?
Ricky digs into the left pocket of his shorts. From it he draws his PokeDex.
Ricky: No saying goodbye, because we're going to see each other again someday. But before you leave I would like to say thank you. For getting back our Pokemon. For staying and helping me train Growlithe. For calling me a friend. You're my friend too...and you're also a Trainer. So as my own way of saying thanks - I challenge you to a battle.
Janice is touched by this. No goodbyes here, no sad faces either, because there will be a next time. This is just a "See you later".
Janice: (warm smile) You sure have a funny way of saying thanks. Alright Ricky, I accept your challenge.
From her Bag she draws one PokeBall. Growlithe is Ricky's first Pokemon pal, so it only feels right to face him with her first Pokemon pal.
>>TRAINER BATTLE<<
====================
Pokemon Trainer Janice [Level 17] vs Youngster Ricky [Level 15]
Pidgey flies out of its PokeBall, entering the battlefield to meet Growlithe for the friendly match. A cold wave of caution suddenly races through Pidgey's body while it is looking at Growlithe. This triggers Janice's PokeDex - an Ability update:
Ability: Intimidate
- Lowers the foe's Attack.
Janice: !! *Oh that's right..Growlithe has that Ability. Sorry Pidgey...*
The wave disappears just as quickly as it appeared, leaving Pidgey feeling a little less confident in its attack power than before. The Puppy Pokemon is already on the move.
Ricky: Growlithe, use Bite!
Growlithe dashes forward and takes a playful nip out of Pidgey. The Tiny Bird loses a quarter of its health and flinches from the attack, unable to respond with its own move right away.
Janice: Pidgey!
This gives Growlithe another turn, it uses Leer to lower Pidgey's defense. The Flying-type recovers from the bite in the next turn.
Janice: Gust attack!
That powerful swirl of moving air strikes Growlithe and sweeps away almost half of its health. Ricky winces a little, yet relieved that Growlithe is hanging in there. He checks his PokeDex and tries another move this time.
Ricky: Okay Growlithe, use Flame Wheel!
Bright, lively flames engulf Growlithe as it races across the battlefield towards its target. It tackles into Pidgey, dropping its health below halfway.
Flame Wheel (Fire-type move)
Category: Physical
- The user cloaks itself in fire and charges at the target. This may also leave the target with a burn (10% chance).
Had Pidgey's health dropped into the red, Janice would have healed it, but she holds on. One turn to attack should be enough. She calls for Sand Attack. Growlithe shields its eyes from the sandy cloud whipped up by Pidgey's flapping wings. Its accuracy is lowered. Ricky won't be discouraged, he goes for another move - Howl. Growlithe's attack power is raised.
Janice: *Nice choice there. If I'm not careful, one hit from Growlithe might take Pidgey out now.* Use Swift!
The star-shaped rays drop Growlithe's health below halfway.
Ricky: Hang in there Growlithe! Just one attack is all we need! Use Bite!!
Growlithe reaches Pidgey for another nip, but misses the bird.
Ricky: No way!!
Janice: Pidgey, let's try out Mirror Move!
Pidgey zips across the battlefield to use its own version of Growlithe's move, taking a bite from the Fire-type. Growlithe survives with its health at the center of the red zone. Ricky lights up, grabbing this chance with both hands and bolting with it.
Ricky: Growlithe, finish it off with Flame Wh--! ?! Growlithe??
The boy stops his call for the finisher when he sees Growlithe not respond. His PokeDex chimes in to tell Ricky that Growlithe flinched after that Bite from Pidgey.
Ricky: Huh??
Janice: It means Growlithe can't make a move until its next turn. That's what happened to Pidgey when it was hit by Bite earlier, remember Growlithe got another turn right after?
Ricky remembers. He just wasn't expecting this to happen now when everything seemed to line up for him to end this match.
Janice: Pidgey, one last Gust!
Growlithe's remaining health is blow away and the match comes to a close.
Ricky sends Growlithe back into its PokeBall, pouting a little.
Ricky: We were so close. Just one attack...that's all we needed. One.
He looks at the PokeBall, his pout fading. The thought of him and Growlithe coming that close to winning slowly cheers him up. This was only a single battle out of many more to come. He aims to win them all. He goes over to Janice who has healed up Pidgey and extends a hand.
Ricky: Thanks Janice.
Janice shakes his hand, proud to see him start on that long road which she herself is already travelling. He has made a fair first impression.
Janice: Anytime. There better be a rematch when we meet again.
Ricky: (cocky smile) Count on it, and I'm gonna win it!
He accompanies Janice and Pidgey to the north exit of Debbie Town, with Route 4 carrying on ahead of them.
Ricky: Since you're leaving this early, you'll probably reach Holder City before noon. Route 4 isn't as long as Route 3.
Janice: I like that. Today will be a super busy day in Holder so I hope to meet Caroline before things get hectic.
She gives him her number.
Janice: That's how you can reach me when you have your own PokeNav or even if you call from the Post Office.
Ricky: Alright. Until next time?
Janice: (grins) Until next time!
And with that she walks away, with Pidgey flying at her side. Ricky watches her for a few minutes, before going back into town and then Route 3 to begin his day.
ROUTE 4 (Day Care Road)
-------------
The wide open fields of Route 3 have been replaced by carpets of grass dotted by shady trees on either side of the road. Pidgey flies away from Janice to weave between the trees and enjoy the new surroundings. As they make progress they start to see more people. Some are from Debbie Town, just out for a stroll. Others are Trainers searching for wild Pokemon or busy training. Then Janice sees Pokemon Breeders, with their small squads of young Pokemon who are outside ready for another day of playing. Janice also notes that the Trainers along this route are at the same levels as Cliff, Dennis and Nixon.
Janice: *Maybe I would've come out here yesterday to train if I didn't have Cliff and his friends to deal with.*
She sees a sign on the left side of the road. Upon closer inspection it is pointing to a house at the end of a small path extending further past the sign. That house is the Pokemon Day Care. Lining the small path are gated pens in which baby Pokemon are being watched over to by a Pokemon Breeder. Some of the Breeders see Janice approaching and welcome her to the Day Care. In the pen closest to the house she finds Rodney watching over his sleeping crew of Pokemon. He quietly steps out of the pen to greet Janice.
Rodney: Hey, good morning. I'm glad you stopped by before carrying on. Did you see Ricky? He and I left at the same time. (smiles) I guess now that he's become a Trainer he'll be an early riser too.
Janice: Morning Rodney, I saw him before I left town. Not a idea if he wants to get some training done before starting the day. (glances over at the sleeping Pokemon Rodney has been looking after) Has yours already begun?
Rodney: Yeah. I'll be helping out elsewhere for the next few hours until they wake up. Then the real fun begins. Since you're here, how about I introduce you to the Day Care Couple?
Janice: !! Okay, sure.
She follows Rodney as he enters the house.
It is more spacious inside than it looks from the outside. There is enough room in the lounge for a Pokemon play area. In one corner stands an active desktop computer. Beyond the lounge is the kitchen and a passageway on the left side from the kitchen leading other rooms. Rodney leads Janice through the lounge and kitchen to a door that takes them out into the freshly cut backyard. At the sound of the kitchen door opening, an elderly couple watching over some Pokemon playing turn around to see who it is. They recognise Rodney, who goes over to speak with them briefly. The couple then wave Janice over, delighted to see her.
Day Care Man: How lovely it is to finally meet you, my dear Janice. Welcome to our Pokemon Day Care House. I'm Timothy and this is my wife Diana.
Janice: Thank you, I'm pleased to meet you too. I'm a little surprised you know who I am.
Diana: How could we not know after hearing about what you did for the children yesterday? Our grandson Simon told us all about it when he got home.
Janice remembers the boy, who wasn't sure about her at first but came around in the end.
Diana: So we wanted to offer you a gift as a gesture of our gratitude, since you've proven yourself to be a fairly decent Trainer.
Janice: ?? A gift?
Rodney rushes back into the house and moments later he walks out with that gift.
Janice: !!!
She can't help herself as she stares at it. Mouth open wide. Cradled in Rodney's arms is a Pokemon Egg.
Janice turns to the couple, not sure how she can accept such a major gift. Diana receives the Egg from Rodney and holds it out to Janice. Pidgey is off her shoulder so it can have a closer look at the Egg, a complete mystery to the bird. Which Pokemon laid this, it wonders.
Diana: (warm smile) Go on, don't be shy, take it.
Janice: I...I don't know what to say...this, I mean, I don't know if I should...
Diana: You've made it this far with a whole team of Pokemon, you have nothing to worry about. Looking after the Egg is just like looking after any of your other Pokemon. Give it love, patience, warmth and let it be around a strong Trainer and strong Pokemon. It's alright.
Janice hesitates, looking at the Egg and then up at Diana who gives an assuring nod. She slowly works up the courage to touch the Egg with both hands - the smooth white shell, with a design of red circles all around it, feels rather warm to the touch. Janice gently lifts the Egg from Diana's hands. It's not heavy at all, weighing about as much as her Bag. She draws the Egg close to herself and cradles it.
Janice: I'll do my best. Thank you for entrusting me with it.
Pleased with Janice's decision, the couple exchange warm smiles and then turn back to her with favour in mind.
Timothy: Could we trouble you with something?
Janice looks at them curiously.
Timothy: Don't worry, it's not another surprise gift (chuckles) no, this is more of a request, really. Small request.
Janice: Okay...what is it?
Diana: We would like to battle you.
Janice: !! Huh??
Timothy: Yes, just a good old fashioned friendly scuffle. Now, you don't have to accept if you don't want to. But we just thought it would be a neat idea. After all, we were Trainers back in our day, you know? And after hearing about you, why pass up the chance to see how you do?
Janice: Wow...I, er, wasn't expecting any of this at all. First the Pokemon Egg, now you would like to battle me?
She'd forgotten about the couple being former Trainers. Now that she has been reminded, Janice checks their Levels.
Janice: ?? *That's odd...*
Nothing apppears above their heads. Usually the number appears right away as soon as she decides to check. But not this time. She tilts her head slightly to one side in confusion, trying to check again. There is nothing for a few seconds...but then two big blue capital X's form in place of what should be the couple's Levels. Diana sees the look on Janice's face and grins, nudging her husband's arm. Timothy notices the look as well, he grins like his wife.
Timothy: Having trouble viewing our Levels, dear girl?
Janice: !!
She looks away, feeling a little embarrassed.
Janice: I'm sorry...I was only curious.
Diana: No harm done, it's fine that you did. All the Trainer Levels you've seen so far have either been equal to, higher than or lower than yours, right?
Janice nods.
Diana: You had no problems checking those out, until now. That is because you can only view higher Levels up to 9 Levels from yours. From 10 Levels higher and above, you'll get nothing. It's a handy little ability that every Trainer gains when they become one, but not every Trainer finds out about it until much later or if at all.
Janice: I found out about it very early, it's only now that I'm learning about not being able to see Levels of stronger Trainers. Why can't we view those Levels?
Timothy: Hm, I suspect it's to protect weaker Trainers from stronger ones and from strong wild Pokemon. Keeps them from trying their luck in a futile effort at the expense of their own Pokemon.
Janice: Okay. So there's no way I'd be a fair match for you in battle then since you're definitely way stronger than me.
Timothy: There is one way to sort this out - we'll battle with Pokemon that are close to your Level. Sound fair enough?
Janice: ?? You'd do that?
Timothy: Of course. So are you interested in our little request?
Janice looks at the couple and then at Rodney, who seems like he isn't in on what they have in mind. She faces the couple again.
Janice: What kind of battle would it be?
Diana: You've competed in a Double Battle before, yes?
Janice: I have, only two though. One of them was a "two versus one" battle, I'd teamed up with a friend of mine.
Timothy: Who were you facing?
Janice: Harris, the Graham City Gym Leader. He was willing to take us on at the same time.
Timothy: (laughs) How generous of him! He must've been in a really fine mood. Well, then this would be the other way round. You versus us. Four Pokemon versus four Pokemon. Diana and I will each use two.
Diana: Or you can take us on in Singles matches, if you prefer one on one.
Janice pauses to consider all this. Everything sounds fine and fair. She can even choose not to battle the couple if she wants to. But there hasn't been a battle that she has actually turned down or walked away from yet, even when she had to deal with Konami. Why start now?
Janice: Okay, I'll battle you. Let's give that Double Battle a go.
Rodney turns to her, a little concerned despite the smile he has.
Rodney: Are you sure?
Janice: Yeah, it's fine. I'd like to try.
The couple are happy to hear that. Timothy turns to Rodney.
Timothy: Could you ask the crew if they could lend us any four Level 18 Pokemon? Tell them it's for training purposes.
Rodney: Sure thing.
He leaves, with Diana also going back into the house.
Diana: I'll go get some Items and search for our PokeDexes. They'll probably need some dusting after all these years!
She returns moments later with a Bag of Items and what look to be a pair of older generation PokeDexes, like the one Move Tutor Lola had.
Diana: (hands one PokeDex to Timothy) You think they still work?
Timothy has a look at it, as the memories of his youthful Trainer days regain their full colours and slowly come back to life in his mind.
Timothy: Hmm, it would be shame if--
He brightens up when the device turns on and recognises its owner.
Timothy: Look at that, old girl, it is alive still! How's your--
Diana almost squeals with delight when hers does the same. Shades of their younger days visible on their faces. Janice is glad to see this.
Rodney returns carrying four PokeBalls. Timothy examines them carefully, almost thoughtful.
Timothy: Why don't you pick yours first, Dee? !! Hey, wait--!
Diana snatches two of them without a second thought, looking satisfied with her choices.
Timothy: ...those were the ones I was going to pick... (dramatic sigh) oh well.
Diana: (smirks) Next time Tim, pick yours first. (turns to Janice) Have you chosen yours?
Janice: Not yet, hold on.
She turns to Rodney, holding out the Pokemon Egg.
Janice: Please?
Rodney: (receives the Egg) I got it. Good luck.
She nods her thanks and opens her Bag. After checking her team for a few seconds she chooses three PokeBalls. Her fourth Pokemon is perched on one of her shoulders, already looking forward to competing.
Janice: *Two vs one battle...okay, here we go.* I'm ready.
The Day Care couple suddenly have a look in their eyes that they haven't had for a very long time - a look of veteran Trainers aiming to win another battle.
>>TRAINER BATTLE<<
====================
Pokemon Trainer Janice [Level 17]
Versus
Day Care Couple Timothy & Diana [Level 18]
Diana: Let's have a look at you first, Phanpy!
Timothy: Starting with you, Nuzleaf!
Janice: Nidorina & Nidorino, go!
Timothy: !! *Hmm, that's going to be quite a pickle...*
Janice's PokeDex makes the introductions:
Phanpy - The Long Nose Pokemon
Type: Ground
Ability: Sand Veil
- As a sign of affection, it bumps with its snout. However, it is so strong, it may send you flying.
Nuzleaf - The Wily Pokemon. Evolved form of Seedot.
Type: Grass/Dark
Ability: Early Bird
- Nuzleaf live in densely overgrown forests. They occasionally venture out of the forest to startle people. The sound of Nuzleaf's grass flute fills listeners with dread.
The baby Pokemon that the couple were watching over have put their playing on pause and join Rodney to see this battle.
Diana: (gives Timothy a sideways look) You'll be alright?
Timothy: I'll be just fine. This battle has only just started. (smiles)
Nidorino and Nidorina have speed on their side.
Janice: Nidorino, use Poison Sting on Nuzleaf and Nidorina, use Bite on Phanpy!
Nidorino jabs Nuzleaf with its pointed horn. Super Effective, bringing its health down nearly by half.
Timothy: *Well played..*
Nidorina's attack eats away nearly half of Phanpy's health. Not enough for Diana to worry yet. Timothy has a glance at his PokeDex.
Timothy: Some good moves you got here, Nuzleaf, excellent. Let's try this one on Nidorino - Astonish!
Nuzleaf lets out a sudden strange note with its grass flute, the random noise startles Nidorino and does some damage. A quarter of its health gone. Janice consults her PokeDex about this:
Astonish (Ghost-type move)
Category: Physical
- The user attacks the target while shouting in a startling fashion. This may also make the target flinch.
Janice: *Nidorino flinched...so no move next turn.*
Timothy: (satisfied smile) Not too bad. Whatchu got, Dee?
Diana: Phanpy here has Rollout for Nidorina!
The small blue Pokemon leaps off the ground and curls into a spinning blue ball of energy. It slams into Nidorina with plenty of force, driving Nidorina's health almost to the halfway mark. Memories of Nixon's Geodude pop up in Janice's mind. She knows what Rollout is capable off if left uninterrupted.
Janice: *I haven't forgotten about Rollout...hopefully we can defeat Phanpy before it really gets going.* (turns to Nidorino) *But since it won't have a turn, Nidorina will have to deal with Nuzleaf instead.*
Nidorino's turn comes and goes as the Poison-type hasn't recovered from the Astonish attack.
Janice: Nidorina, Poison Sting on Nuzleaf--!
Timothy: Not fast enough - Nuzleaf, both targets, Air Cutter!
Janice: !! Both?!
Nuzleaf's grass flute lets out a different note, one that creates a powerful wind. It doesn't push into Nidorino and Nidorina, as if to blow them out of the battlefield, but runs through them with a sharp edge. Their health dives below halfway.
Air Cutter (Flying-type move)
Category: Special
- The user launches razor-like wind to slash the opposing Pokémon. Critical hits land more easily.
The PokeDex has an extra bit of information which justifies Timothy:
Targets: All Enemies.
Timothy: First time seeing a multiple-target striking move in a Double Battle?
Janice: (slowly nods) Now that I think about it...yeah. First time. Even the new information I just got from my PokeDex, it hasn't popped up before until now.
Timothy: Well, congratulations (smiles) now you know that there are moves which can hit more than one foe when faced with several, like in a Double Battle.
Nidorina has survived the Air Cutter attack and gets to use Poison Sting. Nuzleaf's health drops into the red. That familiar flash of purple signals that it has been poisoned. Timothy's smile crumbles as what's left of Nuzleaf's health disappears.
Timothy: (sends Nuzleaf back into its PokeBall) Short but sweet enough. Just had the bad luck of facing a pair of Poison-types. I'm down to my last Pokemon, Dee.
Diana: I've got your back. Phanpy's still on the move.
Janice and Nidorina catch Phanpy when it smashes into the Poison-type with a stronger Rollout, knocking out Nidorina.
Janice: !!
Phanpy flashes purple for Diana to notice. Its health drops below halfway.
Nidorino has recovered but just in time to see its partner leave the battlefield. Nothing it could do. Janice places Nidorina's PokeBall into the Bag. She releases her third Pokemon, Bayleef.
Timothy: It is your turn now, Flaaffy!
Flaaffy - The Wool Pokemon. Evolved form of Mareep.
Type: Electric
Ability: Static
- Its fleece quality changes to generate strong static electricity with a small amount of wool. The bare, slick parts of its hide are shielded against electricity.
Diana worries for Phanpy now that Bayleef is on the field.
Diana: *...unless that third Rollout can beat it before Bayleef has a chance.*
She looks at Phanpy.
Diana: *First I need to cure it.* Tim, could you do me a favour? Please fully heal Phanpy. I'll go after Bayleef and Flaaffy aims for Nidorino.
Timothy thinks this over and nods. Across the battlefield Janice is doing her own planning.
Janice: *I could have Bayleef take on Flaaffy while Nidorino faces Phanpy...or should they team up to defeat Phanpy?*
For Nidorino she plans to call for Horn Attack. As she checks the PokeDex to choose a move for Bayleef, one move catches her eye - Razor Leaf. Its name tab has been highlighted. Janice taps it like she normally does to read the information provided for a move. But this time there's an extra note.
Targets: All Enemies.
Janice: !! *Razor Leaf can hit multiple targets?? (smiles) Alright, let's go with that--*
Timothy uses his turn to cure Phanpy of its poisoning and return it to 100% with an Item Janice remembers Mr Lou telling her about, for advanced Trainers.
Janice: *A Full Restore?! Oh wow, makes sense. I just wonder how many more of those they have...* As she wonders, Diana has her turn.
Diana: Phanpy, new target - Bayleef!
Janice: Oh no!
For the third time, Phanpy rumbles across the battlefield and for the third time it slams into its opponent. Bayleef's health lands in the middle of the red zone. All three PokeDexes chime to indicate an Ability being triggered. The couple trade looks of surprise as Bayleef's Grass-type moves are given that 50% boost in power thanks to Overgrow. Janice fights back.
Janice: Nidorino, Horn Attack at Phanpy and Bayleef, both targets, Razor Leaf!
Diana: You're kidding!
Timothy: A Grass-type move that has been boosted by an Ability AND hits multiple targets...I wish she was, Dee. Colour me impressed.
The stronger jab from Nidorino's horn drives off nearly half of Phanpy's health and what's left is shaved off by the onslaught of sharp-edged leaves. Flaaffy's health tumbles to the halfway point.
Janice: Nice going! *Phanpy's down. They each got one more Pokemon left now. Almost there.*
Diana sends Phanpy back into its PokeBall, a little sad to see it go. The aim to defeat Bayleef vanishes. She is down to her last Pokemon.
Diana: I'm counting on you now, Heracross!
A sturdy-looking Heracross appears on the battlefield. Diana checks her PokeDex and cheers up, liking what she sees.
Diana: Some solid moves on this one, Tim. I think I'll be able to bounce back real soon.
Timothy: Music to my ears, dear. We'll have to, now that we're on our last stand. It's my turn now. (turns to Janice) Smart strategy for taking out Phanpy, I commend you for that. Let's do something about Bayleef, eh? Flaaffy, Thunder Wave!
Flaaffy discharges a weak jolt of electricity, which only serves to paralyse Bayleef.
Janice: No way..
Timothy: (smiles) At least that'll do against a Grass-type since Electric-types don't fair very well against them. Your move, Dee.
Diana: Great. Heracross, finish off Bayleef with Aerial Ace!
Janice: ?! Bayleef!!
With amazing speed, the Single Horn Pokemon reaches its target and slashes it with one of its forearms. A Super Effective strike that does not miss and cuts away what remains of the Leaf Pokemon's health.
Diana: Pretty amazing that it would learn a Flying-type move when Heracross is a Bug/Fighting-type. That has its uses. (smiles)
Bayleef is returned into its PokeBall. Janice looks up at her feathered friend who sits on her shoulder, having watched everything that has happened so far.
Janice: It's up to you and Nidorino now. Ready?
Pidgey lifts off and flies onto the battlefield.
Timothy: Now that is certainly interesting. (turns to Diana) Should I deal with Pidgey?
Diana: (shakes her head) No, you focus on Nidorino. Heracross can hang with the bird. (checks her PokeDex and smiles) Plus, Janice will have to choose between playing smart and playing for the advantage...
Janice is set on taking down Heracross. Her turn follows and she goes ahead with her mission.
Janice: Pidgey, Nidorino, aim for Heracross - Gust and Peck attacks--!!
Diana: (waves an index finger at Janice) Heracross is faster than both of them. Heracross, Endure!
Heracross crosses its forearms to guard itself. Nidorino jabs with its horn and Pidgey whips up the air. Both attacks are enough to knock back the dual-type a few steps. Super Effective combo...but Heracross is still active, with only a thread of its health left. Janice can't believe it. That should've been one shot blow. Diana points at Janice's PokeDex, a satisfied smirk on her face.
Diana: You should have a look at that.
Janice looks at the screen of the device as it displays what she should know:
Endure (Normal-type move)
Category: Status
- The user endures any attack with at least 1 point of Health. Its chance of failing rises if it is used in succession.
Diana: You chose to play for the advantage, when you could've played smart like you did before. Now your turn is over. Maybe this has just cost you the match.
Janice hasn't found words to say in response. She's still coming to terms with what has happened. Pidgey and Nidorino were supposed to beat Heracross, they have the right moves. But they failed to.
Janice: *What does she mean I could've played smart? Didn't I do just that?? Going after Heracross WAS smart. It's not like I knew it had a move like Endure. I don't understand...I thought that was a good idea.*
While that goes on inside Janice's head, Timothy's turn begins.
Timothy: Flaaffy, Thunder Shock on Nidorino!
A stronger jolt of electricity is let loose from Flaaffy and strikes Nidorino, dropping its health into the red zone. This brings Janice back to what's going on in front of her. Nidorino is one hit away from fainting.
Janice: *Nidorino...I need to refocus. Can't lose Nidorino and have Pidgey fight alone.*
Diana's turn is next and she spends it restoring Heracross back to full health with a bottle of cool Lemonade. She looks over at Janice, curious to see what she'll do next.
Diana: *Your move now..*
Janice opens her Bag and takes out a bottle of Fresh Water to restore Nidorino back to full health during its turn. When it is time for Pidgey to act, she checks the PokeDex. Seeing Janice do this puts a smile on Diana's face.
Diana: *Now you'll get what I meant.*
Another move has its name tab highlighted this time. Had Janice checked the PokeDex before attacking Heracross previously she would have seen this.
Swift (Normal-type move)
Targets: All Enemies.
And now she understands what Diana had said. So she makes up for her mistake, feeling a little better. No more mistakes.
Janice: Pidgey, use Swift!
More star-shaped rays of light are created than usual and they stream through the air to blast through Flaaffy and Heracross. The Electric-type is left with a bit of health and Heracross has lost nearly half.
Timothy: !! Too close for comfort there...I'll have to use up my turn to heal Flaaffy. Sorry, Dee.
Diana nods quietly, going over something in her head. She's glad Janice went for a different tactic, but she didn't think the move would work this well. Then she quickly realises why, it's something she used to keep in mind back in the day because it is important - Swift is given a power boost because its type is the same as its user's type. While not a Super Effective kind of boost, it is a fair boost on top of Swift being a move which does a fair amount of damage on its own. And there's no type resistance from Pidgey's current opponents. Diana frowns a little. Maybe her push for Janice to change tactics might have just cost the couple the match.
Timothy has a Max Potion from the Item Bag for Flaaffy. Diana's turn starts and she has to pause before making a move, because without Flaaffy having had a chance to do some damage, her move now has to count. So many good moves known by Heracross, but she has to pick one.
Diana: Heracross, Night Slash against Pidgey!
Just as fast as Aerial Ace but with more power to it, the attack leaves the Tiny Bird with nearly half of its health.
Diana: *Only a warning slash, eh? The next one should be a critical hit. That's all I need. Just one.*
In choosing to attack instead of healing Heracross, Diana finds out in the next turn that she has given Janice enough room to do a little bounce back of her own.
Janice: I thought maybe you were going to use your turn to heal Heracross.
Diana: !!
Timothy: Oh no, Dee...
Janice: Nidorino, Horn Attack on Heracross and Pidgey, follow up with another Gust attack!
No chance to use Endure this time. Heracross is unguarded, taking the two attacks one after the other and is swept off the battlefield. Diana lets out a disappointed sigh, her time in this match comes to an end.
Diana: (shakes her head in disbelief) Tsk, I got caught up in thinking of a good move to use, because Heracross was still in a safe spot in terms of health. Such a silly mistake.
She sends Heracross back into its PokeBall and gives Janice a nod.
Diana: You got me there, dear. Well done. (turns to Timothy with a comical shrug) I'm sorry, Tim. Old age?
Timothy scoffs as he shooes her off the battlefield with a wave of his hand.
Timothy: Your "old age" has done enough, thank you very much. Leave this to me.
Diana laughs as she walks over to Rodney and the baby spectators, who have kept up with this exciting contest. Janice waves at them, happy that she has made it this far. She turns back to Timothy and prepares for the final stretch. One on one.
Timothy: Let's continue, shall we? Flaaffy, Thunder Wave on Pidgey!
The Flying-type is brought down to earth by the weak jolt, paralysed. Janice won't let that get to her. In Nidorino's turn she cures Pidgey's paralysis with a spray of Paralyse Heal. The bird takes to the air again. Janice calls for Swift. Flaaffy's health is nearly cut in half.
Timothy: Slow Pidgey down with Cotton Spore!
Janice: ??
A cluster of tiny spores appears in front of Flaaffy, who then blows towards Pidgey. The cluster bursts before reaching Pidgey and the spores land all over it. Suddenly, Pidgey slows down its flapping, as if tired. It turns to Janice with a look of confusion, because it isn't tired at all. Janice checks the PokeDex.
Cotton Spore (Grass-type move)
Category: Status
- The user releases cotton-like spores that cling to the opposing Pokémon, which harshly lowers their Speed.
Janice: !!
Timothy: (smiles) No need to rush. It's just you and me now. Flaaffy ain't going anywhere.
His turn ends. Nidorino is up next, with its speed still intact. Of the couple of non-contact moves it can use against Flaaffy, only one will do just fine right now. A chance for Nidorino to help its teammate out.
Janice: This move could've ended things in my favour a lot sooner, but I didn't make use of it. (smiles) I'm glad you're still around so we can finally use it, Nidorino.
Timothy: (intrigued) A surprise move? Really? I thought Nidorino wouldn't have anything it can try against Flaaffy.
Janice: I basically forgot that Nidorino knew the move (laughs) it could've been defeated before I even remembered. Nidorino, use Mud-Slap!
Timothy: !!?
Diana: !!
Nidorino hurls the clump of mud at Flaaffy, dropping its health into the top end of the red zone. Its accuracy lowered.
Timothy: (grins, fired up now) Quite the surprise you got there, but Flaaffy is faster now - attack Pidgey with Thunder Shock!
The jolt released by Flaaffy misses Pidgey completely, striking the ground below it instead. Timothy's grin breaks apart, leaving him open-mouthed and wide-eyed.
Timothy: Oh, drat...
Nidorino urges Pidgey onwards, this is its moment now.
Janice: Pidgey, finish it off with Swift!!
Flaaffy can't avoid the blast of stars, which take what's left of its health with them. The Wool Pokemon is down and the match ends.
Janice and her Pokemon give a big cheer for their victory. This gets the baby Pokemon excited enough to cheer as well after seeing so much action. Diana applauds as she and Rodney come closer.
Diana: An ending with a nice surprise, that was fantastic.
Rodney: (returns the Pokemon Egg back to Janice) I had fun just watching that battle, congratulations.
Janice: I'm glad to hear that, thank you.
She notices Nidorino looking at the Egg.
Janice: (chuckles) Oh that's right, I hadn't shown you my gift yet. We'll be taking this Egg along with us. Hopefully soon our new friend will hatch from it. What do you think?
Nidorino approves, liking the idea of having another teammate on board. Timothy joins them, with Flaaffy safe and sound back in its PokeBall. Despite the outcome of the match, he has regained his high quality jovial form. He and Diana give Rodney back the four Pokemon they had asked for.
Timothy: Give our thanks to the crew, please Rodney. Those were fine Pokemon, well behaved and well trained.
Diana: I hope to see them again soon for another session.
Rodney: No problem, I'll be sure to--
He's interrupted by a familiar sound. The Day Care Couple have heard it as well and all turn to Janice, who is looking at her PokeDex.
Timothy: (big grin) Now THAT is a sound I haven't heard in quite a while.
An update message has appeared - Janice and her team have moved up from Level 17 to Level 18!
Another cheer rings out from the girl. Pidgey takes to the air and happily flies around the backyard with delight, feeling stronger than before. The Day Care couple exchange knowing looks, fortunate to be here to see this. For Rodney, this is new. First time he is present to see a Trainer and their team level up. He makes a note to tell Sharon and Ricky about it later.
Pidgey is about to complete a second air lap when it starts to glow. Nidorino's cry of surprise at seeing this makes everyone look at it then up at what should be the Tiny Bird.
Janice: !! Pidgey..?!
The floating body bathed in white light continues to circle above them. Janice's eyes follow the white light as it peels away in bright flakes which then vanish, exposing the new body of a new bird. It ends its flying and lands in front of Janice.
Janice: ...
Their eyes meet and for a moment it seems like the bird doesn't know who this human girl is. Yet the girl hasn't forgotten her friend who is no longer that Tiny Bird. Tears of pure joy flood her eyes as she offers the happiest smile she can give.
Janice: ...Hi there.
The bird recognises its friend and lets out a happy cry with a flap of its wings.
Pidgeotto - The Bird Pokemon. Evolved form of Pidgey.
End of Chapter 09 - Timothy & Diana.
Next Chapter: The Goddess of Water.