Pokemon: A New Path

With the orchard established, the Treecko trio could now settle on the World Tree with peace of mind.

However, the orchard also needed care and maintenance, which required Pokémon capable of handling the task.

After some thought, Naoki decided to approach Arboliva, who often blended into the ranch disguised as a tree. Given her experience cultivating crops with Gogoat, she was an ideal choice to oversee the orchard. Her expertise in utilizing Grass-type energy to nurture plants made her an invaluable asset.

When Naoki explained the situation, Arboliva readily agreed and moved to the World Tree to take charge of the orchard. Joining her was the Tropius.

Thus, the World Tree officially welcomed its first residents.

Naoki provided a brief introduction, and soon enough, Arboliva, Tropius, and the Treecko trio became fast friends.

The Treecko spent half a day exploring the woods, familiarizing themselves with the terrain. Once comfortable, they returned to the orchard and eagerly began assisting Arboliva.

As a Grass-type Pokémon, the Treecko could naturally contribute to caring for crops and trees. They gathered around Arboliva, learning to channel their Grass-type energy into the plants, diligently following her guidance.

Arboliva, with her nurturing personality, took her role as a mentor seriously, teaching the Treecko with patience and dedication. She emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual support, fostering a community where everyone contributed to building a harmonious home.

Meanwhile, Tropius gravitated toward the serene lake near the guild. With its long neck, it often dipped down to drink the clear water. This lake served as the sole water source for the area.

Whenever the Treecko came to the lake to drink, Tropius enthusiastically shared the ripe bananas that grew around its neck. Thanks to Tropius's Harvest ability and the nourishing effects of dishes like Fried Banana, the fruits it shared quickly replenished.

At first, the Treecko were shy about accepting Tropius's generous offerings. They were used to a communal life among their kind, but the concept of receiving gifts from Pokémon of a different species felt unfamiliar.

However, the Treecko decided to reciprocate by offering berries they had discovered in the bushes. Tropius accepted the berries with delight, happily munching them down. Seeing their gesture appreciated, the Treecko smiled, their mutual kindness strengthening the bond between them.

The atmosphere around the World Tree grew warm and lively. Pokémon of different species found joy in each other's company, forging friendships through simple acts of sharing and cooperation.

Kelly, observing this from a distance, was amazed. "These Pokémon are so harmonious with each other!" she remarked.

Naoki smiled at her comment and said, "Most Pokémon are naturally kind-hearted. They not only help each other but often assist humans too. I've even seen wild Pokémon go out of their way to save people in danger."

For example Zarude from Pokémon the Movie: Secrets of the Jungle, who saved a human baby named Koko and raised him in the forest.

Kelly nodded in agreement. "It's wonderful to live in a world with Pokémon!"

Naoki gave a soft nod. "It truly is."

...

March 7, Year 200 of the Alliance Calendar, Spring.

This marked the day of the highly anticipated Spring Fishing Competition in Kosaji Town.

Naoki had received an invitation from Mayor Thomas two days ago. After finishing his tasks on the ranch, he prepared to ride Koraidon to the lake and join the fishing competition.

At 7:30 in the morning, Kelly and her construction team arrived at the ranch.

Seeing Naoki with Koraidon, Kelly paused and asked, "Are you heading to the fishing competition?"

"Yeah!" Naoki replied with a cheerful nod. "I missed it the past two years. I have some free time today, so I thought I’d check it out."

"Then best of luck to you!" Kelly smiled before gesturing to the truck. "Oh, by the way, the carrot house you requested the other day has been completed. What do you think?"

Naoki turned to see two Machamps unloading a massive, sculpted carrot. They carried it carefully toward him, its vibrant orange sheen reflecting in the sunlight.

The "carrot" was the oversized crop Naoki had sent to Kelly's workshop for processing. Now it had been transformed into a whimsical structure. The carrot was split into two sections, with a sturdy base beneath. A small door and two circular windows were carved into the side, making it look exactly like a storybook bunny’s home.

Naoki was delighted by the result. He called the Eeveelutions over to see their reaction, but before he could ask for their opinions, he realized something wasn’t quite right.

After their evolution, the Eeveelutions had grown larger, and the carrot house could no longer fit all of them comfortably. At best, it could accommodate two or three.

As the Eeveelutions gathered around the carrot house, Naoki observed the scene. His partner Eevee boldly entered first, claiming the space and sitting proudly inside. Flareon and Jolteon followed, squeezing into the small space. Sylveon trailed behind, barely fitting before the interior was packed to capacity.

The remaining Eeveelutions stood outside, pacing curiously around the carrot house, their noses twitching as they examined it.

Naoki sighed. "There’s no way all of them can fit in here..." After a moment of thought, he decided he would plant some giant pumpkins later. Perhaps he could craft a pumpkin carriage large enough to hold all the Eevees comfortably.

"Alright, you all enjoy yourselves here," he said, addressing the playful group. "I’m heading out for a bit."

"Bu-ee!" The Eeveelutions, fully engrossed in their new carrot house, responded absentmindedly, indicating they’d be fine without him.

Naoki gave them an exasperated look, but Kelly chuckled softly at the scene.

Resigned, Naoki turned to Kelly. "Alright, I’m heading off. Thanks for all your hard work today!"

Kelly nodded warmly. "No problem. We’ll get started on construction."

With that, Kelly left for the World Tree to begin work on the expedition guild, while Naoki mounted Koraidon and rode towards the Casseroya Lake.

With Koraidon's incredible speed, the journey took only a few minutes.

When Naoki arrived, he saw a lively crowd already gathered near the lake. Many participants were dressed in fishing vests and baseball caps, holding rods of various sizes and designs.

Naoki and Koraidon had just arrived at the competition grounds, and their appearance immediately drew a lot of attention.

Even before Naoki dismounted, the majestic presence of Koraidon made heads turn.

Mayor Thomas, who had been speaking to a middle-aged man in a floral shirt, noticed Naoki’s arrival. His face lit up as he greeted him with enthusiasm:

“Ah, it’s Naoki! The pride of Kosaji Town—our very own fishing expert!”

Naoki winced slightly at the proclamation, knowing it would only invite more stares.

As expected, every angler nearby turned their gaze toward him, eyes filled with curiosity and admiration.

Naoki: “…”

Mayor Thomas and the man in the floral shirt approached him. The mayor gestured toward the stranger and introduced him with a big smile:

“This is Sato Takeru, a renowned fishing enthusiast. He’s traveled all the way from Zapapico to compete with you!”

Sato Takeru extended his hand confidently. “Greetings! I’m Sato Takeru—the man who tamed a Gyarados! My friend, I’m eager to test my skills against yours!”

Naoki: “…”

'Wasn’t this a bit much?'

Mayor Thomas chimed in with admiration: “Mr. Sato once caught a ferocious Gyarados while fishing at sea and managed to tame it with his incredible skill!”

Naoki, feeling obligated, shook Sato’s hand. “Nice to meet you, Mr. Sato.”

Sato Takeru grinned. “Let’s have a fair and exciting competition!”

Naoki: “…”

Soon after, Mayor Thomas called out to the crowd. “Everyone, take your places! The competition is about to begin!”

The mayor explained the rules: “The fishing competition will last three hours. The winner will be determined based on the quantity and rarity of the fish caught. The champion will receive the prestigious Fishing Celebrity Medal, awarded by the Fishing Association!”

The mention of the medal sent a wave of excitement through the crowd. Naoki could see anglers of all ages—men, women, and even teenagers—getting ready with determined expressions.

“And now,” Mayor Thomas declared, “let the Spring Fishing Competition begin!”

At the sound of his announcement, the competitors hurried to the lakeside, each finding a suitable spot to cast their lines.

The fishing rods, lines, and bait were all standardized and provided by the association, ensuring fairness. This meant that the outcome relied purely on luck, skill, and patience.

Naoki settled on a small bench, while Sato Takeru chose a spot a few dozen meters away.

Naoki prepared his rod, adjusted the line, attached the bait, and cast the hook into the water with practiced ease. Then, the waiting game began.

As the minutes ticked by, the competitors maintained intense focus, silently holding their breath in anticipation.

For an outsider, the scene might seem dull, and even Koraidon, standing guard next to Naoki, grew bored. It let out a big yawn before curling up beside him and dozing off.

Suddenly, ripples appeared on the surface of the water nearby. Naoki turned to see Sato Takeru’s fishing rod bending sharply—something had taken the bait!

Sato reacted instantly, reeling in the line with expert precision. The hooked fish resisted fiercely, pulling in the opposite direction in an attempt to escape.

But Sato Takeru, a seasoned angler, was ready. He braced himself, planting his feet firmly and keeping his balance. The struggle between man and fish continued, each testing the other’s endurance.

The tension in the fishing line eased momentarily—a sign that the fish was tiring. Recognizing the opportunity, Sato exerted a sharp pull.

A large splash broke the lake’s surface, and a shimmering Qwilfish was pulled from the water, its scales glistening in the sunlight.

"It's a Qwilfish!"

The spectators recognized the Pokémon immediately and were all astonished.

"As expected of a fishing master! That’s incredible! He managed to catch one of the bullies of Casseroya Lake, the Qwilfish!"

Qwilfish, a Water- and Poison-type Pokémon, is known for its aggressive behavior. Often referred to as the "Lake Bully," it indiscriminately attacks any creature entering its territory.

However, the Qwilfish that was caught didn’t submit easily.

Its piercing gaze locked onto Sato Takeru, and in a sudden burst of motion, it launched itself toward him with the Tackle move.

But Sato Takeru had anticipated this. Just as the Qwilfish was about to strike, he deftly sidestepped and swung down with a practiced chop, shouting:

"Ha!"

The Qwilfish was struck hard and landed on the ground, writhing. Without hesitation, Sato pulled out a Poké Ball and tossed it at the downed Pokémon.

The ball wobbled violently at first. But after its earlier struggle with the line, the Qwilfish was too exhausted to resist further. Soon, the ball stopped moving.

The capture was successful.

Naoki, who had been watching the whole thing, stood there in shock.

What did I just witness?

Fighting a Pokémon physically? Could this be how he tamed that Gyarados too?

As if sensing Naoki’s disbelief, Sato turned toward him from a distance of about ten meters, grinning proudly.

"As a true fishing celebrity, one doesn’t just reel in ordinary fish! A true master conquers Pokémon as well. Only those who can tame both can be called legendary fishing masters!"

Naoki: “…”

Conquer all fish... Does that include Kyogre, the god of the sea?

Before Naoki could respond, Sato Takeru added enthusiastically:

"Show me what you’ve got, my friend! Let’s see how far you can go!"

Just as he finished speaking, Naoki’s fishing float twitched twice.

A bite!

Everyone nearby turned their attention toward Naoki, curiosity and anticipation in their eyes.

Naoki quickly reeled in his line, expecting a struggle similar to Sato’s. He braced himself, only to realize that it barely required any effort to pull the fish in.

As the transparent fishing line emerged from the water, a small Pokémon resembling a piece of sushi dangled at the end of the hook.

Is that… a Tatsugiri?

Naoki gently held the orange Tatsugiri in both hands, staring at it in surprise.

The little Tatsugiri squirmed slightly, its big eyes blinking curiously at Naoki.

Normally, a Pokémon caught like this would panic and try to escape. But instead, Tatsugiri seemed calm, even intrigued by the human holding it.

"It's a Tatsugiri!"

Someone in the crowd immediately identified it.

Tatsugiri, a Dragon- and Water-type Pokémon, is notoriously cunning and resourceful. It can inflate its throat pouch to mimic sushi and use this camouflage to outsmart predators and prey alike.

Despite its small size, Tatsugiri is considered one of the most intelligent Dragon Pokémon. It is known to live inside the mouths of Dondozo, guiding them in cooperative hunts. Dondozo, in turn, respects Tatsugiri as its leader.

"What an incredible catch!" someone exclaimed.@@novelbin@@

Catching a Tatsugiri is no small feat, given its elusive nature. Even if one were to catch a hundred aggressive Qwilfish, there’s no guarantee they’d land a single Tatsugiri.

Even Sato Takeru, who had just been boasting about his skills, looked serious for the first time.

"As expected of the famed fishing expert of Kosaji Town!" Sato said, his tone carrying newfound respect. "I’ll need to give it my all if I want to match you!"

Naoki: “…”

He could only offer a polite smile, unsure how to respond.

As he glanced at the small Tatsugiri in his hands, Naoki’s heart stirred with curiosity. Using his ability to sense Dragon-type energy, he realized something surprising.

This Tatsugiri had bitten the hook deliberately. It wanted to be caught.