Chapter 585: Baby Sitting
~Azure S. POV~
[Kanto Region, Weeks Later, Pallet Town – Oak's Lab]
The Kanto sun, warm and golden, kissed my cheek as I leaned back against the smooth, ancient trunk of an oak tree near the edge of Professor Oak's sprawling ranch. A soft breeze rustled through the leaves, carrying the scent of fresh cut grass and damp earth, mingling with the sweeter, wilder aroma of the myriad berry bushes scattered across the property. The air was alive with the gentle chirps and calls of various wild Pokémon, a symphony of nature that always put me at ease.
Perched comfortably on my shoulder, Pikachu let out a contented cry as he nuzzled against my neck, his fur crackling ever so faintly with static. On my head, Eevee yawned, a tiny, adorable sound, before settling down to bask in the sunlight, her soft fur cushioning my brow. Tucked away in the inner pocket of my jacket, a warmth emanated from where Pichu (Mew) snoozed peacefully – a constant, comforting presence.
My gaze was fixed on the shimmering expanse of the ranch's largest lake. The water, clear and inviting, reflected the blue sky, creating a canvas for two of the newest, and certainly most unique, additions to my growing family: Manaphy and Phione.
It had only been a few weeks since the Pokémon Egg Green had been gifted to me months ago had finally hatched, revealing the mythical Manaphy. And then, almost immediately, as if by some unseen magic, another egg had appeared right beside it, from which Phione had emerged just days later.
Two mythical Pokémon, mere weeks old, and already they were inseparable.
Professor Oak's voice was, as always, a comforting rumble from beside me, "They're certainly full of energy today, aren't they, Azure?"
He sat on a foldable stool, meticulously jotting notes into a thick, leather-bound notebook, his eyes twinkling with scientific curiosity beneath his spectacles. I replied, a soft smile gracing my lips, "They are, Professor."
Manaphy, a small, blue Pokémon with large, innocent eyes and a red jewel on its chest, was darting through the water with effortless grace, its tiny flippers propelling it with surprising speed. Phione, a slightly smaller, lighter blue creature with a distinctive antennae-like appendage on its head, mimicked its movements, a joyful splash of energy trailing behind it.
Crystal, the Johto Dex Holder and Professor Oak's apprentice, leaned over the professor's shoulder, her own intense gaze fixed on the water. Her blue hair seemed to catch the sunlight, making it glow.
*Click*
She clicked a pen, ready to add her observations, noting, "The data we're collecting is truly invaluable, Professor. Such unique behaviors! It's remarkable how quickly they've adapted to their surroundings, even for legendary Pokémon."
I reached a hand out towards the lake, and with an excited "Maa-na!" and a "Phii-one!", the two mythical Pokémon swam over, bumping gently against my palm. I carefully cupped Manaphy's head, stroking its smooth, cartilaginous skin.
It felt… astounding.
Like firm water, yet so undeniably alive and warm. Phione nudged my fingers with its antennae, a soft current running through it. I murmured, my thoughts drifting, "Still… this is Amazing."
Even after all this time, all the Pokémon I've met, all the battles I've fought, there's always something new to discover. The world never ceases to amaze me. I noted aloud, mostly to myself, "They feel like water."
But Crystal heard me as her eyes lit up, exclaiming, "That's fascinating! Professor, did you get that? Azure says they feel like water! We need to document the epidermal texture and composition!"
Her enthusiasm was infectious, asking excitedly, "But Azure, as fascinating as their natural behaviors are, we also need to consider their growth and development. They're still very young. Don't you think they need some focused training, some exercises, even just to properly manage their abilities?"
I nodded thoughtfully before responding, "You're right, Crystal. They are very young, only a few weeks old. But you've got a point. Even if it's just practicing control over their inherent abilities, some structure would be beneficial."
I looked down at Manaphy and Phione, who were now playfully nudging each other, their small bodies glowing faintly underwater. I suggested casually to the two, "How about a little Heart Swap practice? It's a wonderful ability for them to understand emotions and connections."
Professor Oak beamed, putting down his notebook for a moment to watch, "Oh, excellent idea, Azure! Heart Swap, yes! We've read about it, but observing it firsthand will be a treat. It's the first time we've seen them use it, isn't it?"
With a mental command, I encouraged Manaphy and Phione. Their eyes closed for a moment, and a soft, ethereal blue light pulsed around them, rippling outwards in gentle waves through the water.
*Hummm*
For a brief instant, their auras seemed to intertwine, a fleeting sensation of shared joy and connection washing over me, emanating from the two Pokémon. It was subtle, but unmistakably present.
Crystal whispered, her voice tinged with awe, "That's incredible… The emotional resonance… It's palpable!"
Professor Oak chuckled softly, saying, "Truly remarkable. Speaking of their unique origins, Azure, I was curious. After Manaphy hatched, you mentioned you immediately found another egg right next to it. And from that, Phione hatched, correct?"
I nodded, explaining the event casually, "That's right, Professor. It was quite a surprise. One moment, Manaphy was there, and the next, another egg just… appeared out of nowhere, right beside its shell. Instantly, Phione hatched from it."
Professor Oak mused, tapping his pen against his chin with a fascinated expression, "Fascinating. Two separate species, yet born in such proximity, one seemingly manifesting after the other. It challenges so many of our existing theories on Pokémon reproduction and mythical Pokémon propagation."
Crystal interjected with a curious expression, "They are indeed different species, Professor. While Phione shares many similarities with Manaphy, it's not a pre-evolved form. It's often referred to as 'the sea's drifter,' a distinct species, though closely related in some mystical way. The records are… vague, to say the least."
I remarked casually, a small playful smile playing on my lips, "Eggs are full of mysteries, aren't they?"
Always a surprise, always something new to learn.
Crystal agreed, her eyes gleaming, "They certainly are! The more I research them, the more intrigued I become. This is truly an unprecedented opportunity."
I chuckled, watching as Manaphy and Phione, having completed their brief Heart Swap exercise, began interacting with the other Water-type Pokémon in the lake. A family of Marill cautiously approached, followed by a couple of Poliwag, their tadpole-like bodies wiggling with curiosity.
But instead of the usual boisterous play, the Marill and Poliwag seemed to exhibit a peculiar reverence, their expressions soft, almost deferential. Manaphy and Phione, in turn, swam around them with happy, gentle expressions, sharing some kind of silent understanding.
Professor Oak, observing with a knowing smile on his face, said curiously, "Ah, yes. This behavior is unique to Manaphy. Through my research, I've come across ancient texts that refer to Manaphy as the 'Prince of the Sea.' It's said they possess an innate ability to connect with and even influence other Water-type Pokémon, guiding them and earning their natural respect."
I mused, my gaze lingering on Manaphy, "Prince of the Sea, huh?"
It certainly carried an air of regality, even in its infant form.
Professor Oak looked at me, his expression earnest, and said in an excited tone, "Azure, this is an extraordinary chance to learn more about these mythical beings. If you could come often, bringing Manaphy and Phione here, Crystal and I would be incredibly grateful. The data we could collect from observing their natural growth and interactions would be monumental."
I nodded, of course, agreeing, but sheepishly added with a good-natured sigh, "I wouldn't have it any other way, Professor. Besides… sigh… I practically must watch these two. They get… rather distressed if I'm not around for too long. They tend to cry."
Rotom, who resided within my Arc Phone, buzzed faintly from my pocket, his digital face appearing on the screen for a moment, "Cries? Zzt! That's a powerful emotional response for mythicals, zzt!"
Crystal let out a burst of laughter, a bright sound that echoed across the lake. She teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "So, you've officially settled into the role of a doting parent, have you, Azure?"
I rolled my eyes, though a genuine smile tugged at my lips, replying, "It seems I have. They certainly keep me on my toes."
*Buzzz*
As Crystal and Professor Oak turned their attention back to the Manaphy and Phione, discussing their fascinating properties and potential research avenues, the Arc Phone in my pocket vibrated with a distinctive, humming sound.
A glance at the screen revealed the caller ID: [Akari.]
Akari? Now that's a surprise. It's been a while.
I said casually, pulling out the Arc Phone and going a distance away, "Excuse me for a moment. I need to take this."
Rotom announced, his voice a series of cheerful static bursts, "Incoming call, Master! Zzt! From Akari, zzt!"
I answered the call, bringing the sleek, futuristic device to my ear. Then I asked, "Akari? Hey, what's up?"
Akari's voice, lively and energetic, crackled through the speaker, "Azure! It's been ages! How are things in Kanto? Still conquering leagues and frontiers?"
I grinned as I gave her the rundown from my latest adventure, "You know it. Just wrapped up an intense run through the Sinnoh Elite Four. They were tough, especially Bertha and Flint, but we pulled through. And Cynthia… well, Cynthia pushed us to our absolute limits, as always. Her Garchomp is a beast, but my Infernape gave it a run for its money. We managed to take home the championship."
I heard a soft reply from Gengar, currently inhabiting my shadow, her spectral form momentarily shifting, "Heh. Always showing off, Master. But you earned it."
Pikachu puffed out his chest proudly on my shoulder, "Pika-chuu!"
Akari laughed, hearing my story as she replied, "Phew, sounds like you had your work cut out for you! Congrats on another championship, Azure! You're practically collecting them at this point. You won't believe what happened here, though!"
Her voice dropped into an excited whisper as she said, "My Celestica Flute… it transformed into the Azure Flute!"
I blinked, processing her words. The Azure Flute? My mind immediately flashed to ancient Sinnoh lore, to the legends of Spear Pillar and the mythical Pokémon that resided beyond the fabric of reality.
She certainly worked fast, getting her flute upgraded. I repeated, genuinely surprised, "The Azure Flute? Wait, it transformed? And it's called the Azure Flute? What a funny coincidence with my name?"
I added, rolling my eyes good-naturedly, a small, knowing smirk playing on my lips. It's not just a coincidence, is it?
Not with how things tend to work in this world. Akari giggled as she said, "Right? I thought that too! But seriously, can you believe it? The Overseer of Sinnoh said it was because of… well, a few things!"
I asked, genuinely curious, "How did that even happen?"
The Azure Flute was meant for one purpose, and one purpose only: to summon Arceus and battle/capture it.
Akari began, her voice brimming with exhilaration, "Okay, so get this. After you left Hisui, I kept up my training, just like we talked about. And then Volo… he finally made his move. He revealed his true intentions, and oh my Arceus, he was intense! But thanks to those Mega Stone materials you sent me, my Lucario went Mega and absolutely swept his team! It was glorious, Azure, you should have seen it! Aura Spheres flying everywhere!"
Rotom chimed in excitedly, "Mega Lucario, zzt! A truly formidable partner, zzt!"
I chuckled already picturing it as Akari continued, "And then, after that, Giratina showed up, all angry and shadowy. But I wasn't having it! I called upon my Palkia and Dialga. You remember them, right? The ones I caught after you helped me calm them down? Well, they went into their Origin Forms and, Azure… we didn't just beat Giratina, we bullied it! It was unfair! Palkia was using Spatial Rend and Roar of Time back-to-back, with Dialga doing the same, twisting reality and time around that poor shadowy dragon! It was less of a battle and more of a… well, a celestial beatdown! Giratina didn't stand a chance!"
Akari's voice was filled with a mix of pride and a slight, mischievous glee, adding, "It was soooo epic!"
Gengar snickered from my shadow, a faint, translucent outline of her form appearing for a moment, "Hmph. Sounds like a good showing. Giratina deserved it, trying to mess with her. Bullying a legendary… truly a trainer after my own heart."
My smirk widened into a full-blown grin as I asked, "Wow, Akari, that sounds absolutely insane! Bullying Giratina with Origin Form Palkia and Dialga? That's a story for the ages! Congratulations! You certainly earned that upgrade."
She's grown so much. From a transmigrated traveler to someone who can push back against cosmic forces.
Incredible.
She chirped with an excited tone, "Thanks! And that's when the Overseer of Sinnoh, the one who guides the region, appeared and upgraded my Celestica Flute. Said I'd proven myself worthy of understanding the true legends of Sinnoh."
I pondered aloud, "So, are you going to challenge it? Or pass its trial, whatever that might entail? Or will you wait until you feel truly strong enough?"
The question hung in the air, weighted with the gravitas of summoning the Almight Alpaca Pokémon itself. Akari was quiet for a moment, clearly considering.
Then she finally replied after giving some thought, "Hmm, that's a tough one. As tempting as it is, and believe me, it's very tempting, I think I'll wait. Palkia and Dialga are strong, but facing Arceus? I want to make sure my entire team is at that level, you know? When we all feel completely confident. Or perhaps…"
She mused, a new spark of ambition in her voice, "I should get a team of Legends of my own to truly match Arceus. That sounds like a fun challenge!"
I chuckled at her typical Akari response. I replied, offering her an idea, "That's a very Akari thing to say. Well, if you decide to go for that, or just need to grind your team, I'll be around. You know my Arc Phone number. I'm always up for a challenge."
Akari replied, her voice still buzzing with excitement, "I'll definitely consider that offer! You'd be a great sparring partner. Thanks, Azure! It was great catching up!"
I said excitedly, "You too, Akari. Keep being awesome!"
But when I finished saying that, just as a distressed "Maa-na!" and "Phi-one!" reached my ears, closer this time, filled with a touch of sadness. Oh no, not again. They must have noticed I was distracted.
I rushed out, my attention immediately divided, "Gotta go, Akari! My two little sea scamps are calling for me! I'll call you again soon!"
*BEEP*
I quickly ended the call, shoving the Arc Phone back into my pocket as I said, "Pikachu, Eevee, come on!"
I hardly needed to say it; Pikachu was already leaping from my shoulder, landing on the ground with a soft thud, while Eevee gracefully dropped to follow. Pichu (Mew), still in my jacket pocket, stirred slightly.
Their cries echoed, laced with a distinct whimper now, "Maa-na! Phii-one!"
I called out, already running towards the lake, my heart aching slightly at their distress, "I'm coming, guys! Daddy's here!"
Darkrai and Marshadow, ever my silent guardians, materialized as faint blurs in my shadow, effortlessly keeping pace. Gengar, giggling softly, phased through the ground to follow, her spectral form a wispy, purple trail.
I muttered dismissively, but it was said with pure affection, "You two are impossible sometimes!"
As I reached the water's edge, Manaphy and Phione burst from the surface, soaring towards me. I plunged into the cool water, meeting them halfway, scooping them both into my arms. They nuzzled against my chest, their tiny bodies trembling with relief, their cries quickly turning into happy gurgles.
Sigh. Looks like my responsibilities just keep growing.
I thought, gazing down at the two mythical Pokémon, now purring contentedly in my embrace. From a journey to conquer leagues, to protecting the world, to now being a parent to literal Princes and Princesses of the Sea.
My life truly is full of mysteries. And somehow, I wouldn't have it any other way.
I mean, come on. What's the worst that could happen on my downtime?
Not like the world is in any danger, so I can take my time and relax playing with my new baby mythical Pokemon.
/////
A/N: Hope you like the chapter!