Chapter 16: Chapter 15: Setting out to route 3
Mira left the Striaton City Pokémon Center early, her bag packed and spirits high. While passing through the lobby, a colorful brochure caught her eye. It highlighted an upcoming botanical research competition in Nacrene City, describing opportunities to showcase knowledge of plants and Grass-type Pokémon. Mira's interest was immediately piqued, and she decided to make Nacrene City her next major destination. The sun hung low on the horizon, as she made her way toward Route 3. With Petilil perched confidently on her shoulder and Scout walking beside her—his nose low to the ground as he sniffed curiously at the forest scents—Mira felt ready to embrace whatever the day might bring. Snivy, content to rest, remained in her Poké Ball for now.
"Alright, Petilil, and Scout," Mira said, glancing at her companions. "Let's see what this forest has to offer."
Petilil and Scout made sounds of agreement. The path to the forest was peaceful, lined with patches of wildflowers and the occasional rustle of a Pidove taking flight. As they entered the forest, the trees were dense, allowing only streaks of light to filter through. Mira adjusted her bag as she walked along the narrow dirt path, her eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of wild Pokémon.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, the soft hum of Kricketot and the occasional rustle of bushes filled the air. Mira's steps were deliberate, her mind attuned to the subtle shifts in the environment. The forest felt alive, its inhabitants stirring to life. Her Pokédex beeped softly, alerting her to nearby activity, and Mira couldn't help but smile. "This place is incredible," she murmured. "So much life and so much to learn."
Ahead, the path split into two directions. To the left, a narrow trail led toward a patch of tall grass, its blades swaying gently under the light breeze. To the right, the path curved toward a pond, its surface shimmering like liquid silver under the moonlight. Mira paused, considering her options. She crouched down to consult her team, pulling out her notebook to jot down observations.
"Alright, team," she began, her voice soft yet focused. "We have two paths. One leads toward that patch of tall grass. We might find new Pokémon there. The other leads to the pond. It could be a good spot to rest and maybe discover some aquatic Pokémon. What do you think?"
Scout barked softly, his tail wagging as he pointed toward the tall grass with his nose. Petilil chirped faintly, seemingly content with either choice.
Mira smiled, appreciating their input. "Let's check out the tall grass first, and then we can circle back to the pond."
The tall grass swayed gently as they approached, its height reaching up to Mira's knees. She moved carefully, her eyes darting between the shifting blades. The rustling intensified, and a wild Patrat emerged. Mira reached for her Pokédex as the familiar chime signaled a new entry.
"Patrat, the Scout Pokémon. Extremely cautious, Patrat keeps watch for danger, often communicating with others in its group through shrill cries."
The Patrat regarded Mira and her team cautiously, its stance alert. Mira crouched low, holding out a small berry in an attempt to calm the Pokémon. "It's okay. We're just passing through," she said softly. The Patrat sniffed the air, its curiosity seemingly piqued, but after a moment, it darted back into the grass.
Mira sighed in relief, standing up and brushing off her knees. "Well, that was a close encounter. Let's move on."
As they continued through the tall grass, Mira couldn't help but notice the subtle differences in its texture and density compared to other areas she had explored. "The grass here is so lush and thick," she noted aloud. "It must be a perfect habitat for smaller Pokémon." One particularly vibrant patch of flowers caught her attention.
"These look like they could be related to the Kalosian lilies we learned about yesterday," Mira murmured, sketching their delicate petals. Petilil hopped down from her shoulder to investigate, chirping curiously.
Further along the trail, Mira spotted a family of Blitzle grazing in a clearing. She crouched quietly, observing their movements, and smiled at their playful interactions. Scout sniffed at a nearby tree and, with a wag of his tail, nosed out a small, glimmering object—a shard of an old Poké Ball. Mira chuckled and pocketed the find. "Good eye, Scout," she said, patting his head. Though tempted, she refrained from interrupting them. "Not today," she whispered to herself, focusing instead on the beauty of the moment.
After some time, they reached the edge of the grass and found themselves near a patch of dark grass. The blades were darker and taller, casting an almost ominous shadow under the moonlight. Mira paused, her curiosity piqued. "This must be dark grass," she murmured. "It's said that stronger Pokémon can be found here."
The air felt heavier as Mira stepped closer to the patch. Scout immediately tensed, his senses heightened. Petilil's leaves quivered faintly, and Mira placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Stay close, everyone," she said, her tone steady. "Let's not take unnecessary risks."
As they continued their exploration, Mira made detailed notes about the different grass types they encountered. She documented their appearances, textures, and the Pokémon they seemed to attract. The variety was astounding: tall grass that provided excellent cover, dark grass that hinted at greater challenges, and even patches of flowers where Butterfree and Vivillon fluttered gracefully.
Eventually, the path led them to the pond. The water was calm, its surface rippling softly in the gentle breeze. Mira knelt by the edge, her reflection blending with the stars above. "This is a perfect spot to rest," she said, releasing Snivy from her Pokéball and unpacking a small blanket with some snacks for her team.
Mira heard the sound of footsteps and rustling ahead. She spotted a young trainer, their bag slung over one shoulder and a Blitzle trotting beside them.
"Hi there," the trainer called out with a friendly wave. "Are you traveling through Route 3 too?"
Mira nodded, returning the wave. "I am. Just taking some time to explore the forest. I'm Mira, by the way."
"Nice to meet you, Mira. I'm Theo," the trainer replied. "What do you think of the forest so far?"
"It's beautiful," Mira said, her enthusiasm evident. "I've been sketching and taking notes on the plants and wild Pokémon. What about you?"
"Training mostly," Theo said with a grin, patting Blitzle's side. "Blitzle and I are trying to perfect our speed and coordination. Want to have a friendly battle?"
Mira considered the offer, glancing at Petilil. "What do you think, Petilil? Ready to stretch your leaves?"
Petilil chirped confidently, hopping into position.