The sun blazed overhead as we stood on one of the training fields behind Norman's gym. The freshly turned soil provided a soft cushion beneath the Pokémon as they prepared for their first sparring match. Atlas and Han faced each other, a mix of anticipation and determination in their eyes. Bodhi watched from the sidelines, seated calmly with his legs tucked under him, almost like an impartial judge, while Flannery and Roxanne leaned on the fence nearby, observing with curiosity.

"Alright, Atlas," I said, crouching down to meet the Stufful's eager gaze. "This is just a spar, but I want you to give it your all. Show me what you've got against Han. Don't hold anything back."

"Stufful!" Atlas barked confidently, his stubby arms flexing in a show of determination. He gave Han a sharp, focused stare that screamed Let's do this.

Han, ever the cocky ace, smirked and cracked his knuckles, lightning faintly sparking from his fur. He took a mock boxer's stance, hopping lightly from one foot to the other. "Pawmo!" he exclaimed, his tone suggesting, Bring it on, rookie.

I stood up, crossing my arms. "Alright, you two. Start when you're ready. Keep it clean, no low blows."

Flannery snorted. "As if Han's not going to flex on the poor guy," she teased.

"Experience teaches, Flan-Flan," I shot back with a grin. "Atlas has heart, though. He'll hold his own."

Roxanne adjusted her glasses. "This will be interesting. Let's see how Atlas handles an opponent of Han's caliber."

Atlas charged forward without hesitation, his small frame moving with surprising speed for someone his size. He started with Brutal Swing, whipping his body around in a wide arc, aiming to catch Han in a sweeping strike.

Han easily sidestepped the attack, his agility shining through as he darted out of range. "Quick Attack, Han!" I called, and in a flash, Han blurred forward, landing a light jab to Atlas' flank before darting away.

Atlas skidded to a halt, shaking off the hit. His stubby legs churned as he rushed forward again, attempting a Mega Punch this time. His paw glowed faintly as he threw the punch with all his might.

Han weaved around the attack with ease, grinning cheekily as he tapped Atlas on the nose with a light Arm Thrust. The Stufful growled, shaking his head as if saying, Is that all you've got?

"Don't let him toy with you, Atlas!" I encouraged. "Keep your focus—use Payback!"

Atlas paused, his body stiffening as he anticipated Han's next move. When Han dashed in again for another Quick Attack, Atlas took the hit but spun immediately to deliver a punishing counterstrike with Payback. Han staggered slightly from the unexpected blow, nodding in acknowledgment of the rookie's clever move.

"Not bad," I muttered, a small grin forming. "Alright, Han. Time to show him what real speed looks like—Double Mach Thrust!"

Han's fur sparked as he shifted into overdrive, zipping around Atlas with blinding speed. Each strike of Mach Punch and Arm Thrust landed with pinpoint accuracy, but I could see the restraint in Han's movements. The force behind his punches wasn't as overwhelming as usual, just enough to test Atlas without causing harm.

"Good," I thought, watching intently. I'd told Han to go easy during the sparring match, and Han had taken it to heart. The flicker of controlled energy in his punches showed he was holding back, focusing on precision rather than raw power.

"Perfect, Han," I called out. "Keep it steady!"

Atlas struggled to keep up, his eyes darting as he tried to track Han's movements. He managed to land another Brutal Swing, but the strike only glanced Han's arm. Despite his best efforts, Atlas was slowly being worn down.

Finally, Han used Quick Attack to close the distance, appearing behind Atlas in a flash. Before Atlas could react, Han executed a clean Ice Punch, his fist glowing with a frosty aura as it connected squarely with Atlas' side. The impact sent the Stufful skidding across the field.

"Stuff!" Atlas growled as he scrambled to his feet, shaking dirt off his fur. His breathing was heavier now, but his eyes burned with determination. He glanced at Han, who stood casually with his arms crossed, giving the Stufful a subtle nod of approval. Not bad, kid, Han seemed to say.

"Alright, that's enough!" I called, stepping onto the field. "Han, great work. Atlas, you did amazing for your first spar. Come here, bud."

Atlas trudged over, his head slightly lowered, but the fire in his eyes hadn't dimmed. As I crouched down to meet him, he looked up at me with an expression that practically screamed, I'll do better next time.

"Stufful!" he barked, flexing his tiny arms.

"That's the spirit," I said with a chuckle, patting him on the head. "You gave it your all, and that's what matters. Han's got more experience, but that just means you've got a great sparring partner to help you improve."

Han walked over, giving Atlas a light tap on the shoulder. "Pawmo," he said with a small smirk, his tone almost teasing.

Atlas puffed out his chest, letting out a determined growl as if to say, Just you wait—I'll catch up to you someday.

"Well, that was certainly entertaining," Roxanne said, a small smile playing on her lips. "Atlas has potential, but Han is on a different level. It's a good benchmark for him to aspire to."

Flannery grinned. "That little guy's got guts, I'll give him that. He'll be a beast once he evolves into a Bewear."

"No doubt," I said, standing up and brushing off my pants. "We'll keep working together, and one day, he'll give Han a run for his money."

Han raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms and giving me a mock offended look.

"Relax, buddy," I said with a laugh. "I said 'one day.' You're still the undisputed champ—for now."

Atlas growled playfully, hopping up and down as if to say, You'd better watch out, Han.

As we headed back toward the lobby of the gym, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. Our team was shaping up to be something truly extraordinary, and with Atlas officially joining the squad, the future felt even brighter.

The receptionist, waiting at the desk, noticed our arrival and quickly guided us toward Norman's office. Flannery and Roxanne exchanged curious glances as we followed her down a short corridor and into a spacious yet modestly decorated room. Norman sat behind his desk, his demeanor calm yet commanding.

"How did the sparring match go?" he asked, his eyes crinkling slightly with a knowing smile.

"It was good," I replied, a grin spreading across my face. "I have to admit, Atlas is a spitfire. Even after getting beat by Han in the sparring match, he was still raring to go for another round."

Norman leaned back in his chair, nodding with satisfaction. "He was always the most rowdy of his siblings," he said. "But that fire in him is what makes him special. I expect great things from you, Michael. I'm entrusting you with a Pokémon with immense potential. I know you'll treat him well, and I look forward to the day we face each other in an Elite challenge."

The weight of his words hit me. An Elite challenge. Even though it was still far off, the mere idea of facing Norman as part of the Elite Four sent a thrill through me.

"You got it, sir!" I said, offering a mock salute with a laugh. "I promise, you won't see what's coming once Atlas reaches his full potential."

"I can't wait for that day, Michael," Norman replied with a chuckle. Then his expression turned more serious as he stood. "By the way, I received a message the other day from Champion Drake. He informed me that he'll be docking in Slateport in two months, and he's expecting you to be there. He mentioned it has something to do with a conversation he had with Professor Birch about a month ago."

The air in the room shifted. Both Flannery and Roxanne turned to look at me, their curiosity palpable.

Norman's gaze sharpened. "You wouldn't happen to know why the Champion would want to meet you, would you?"

I froze for a moment, but only briefly. I'd expected this since my initial talk with Professor Birch, but being put on the spot still threw me off. I could already feel Flannery's curiosity bubbling over and Roxanne's calculated stare boring into the back of my head.

"Well," I began, carefully choosing my words. "Yes, sir, I do. But unfortunately, I'm not at liberty to divulge what it's about right now." My voice softened as I turned to look at Flannery and Roxanne. "Sorry, guys. Maybe after I've talked with Champion Drake, I'll be able to explain."

Roxanne's neutral expression didn't falter as she gave a slight nod. "I understand," she said simply.

"Yeah, Mich, we don't mind," Flannery added, her tone light despite her obvious curiosity. Then she sidled up to me and pinched my cheeks with a mischievous grin. "Still, though, I didn't know our little karate kid had an in with the Champion!"

"Oh, shut it, Flan-Flan," I groaned, batting her hands away. "I don't even know Champion Drake. I only know about this because Professor Birch mentioned it to me when we met."

"I have to say, Michael," Roxanne interjected, pushing her glasses up with a sly smile, "I'm getting more interested by the minute about what this topic is all about. But no matter, I can wait."

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

Norman cleared his throat, drawing our attention back to him. "Let's leave the topic until after Michael meets with the Champion," he said firmly. "Now, unfortunately, I have a busy day ahead. This is where we part ways for now, but I expect to see all of you here soon for your gym challenges."

"It was nice meeting you, sir," Roxanne said, bowing her head slightly.

"Thanks for everything, Gym Leader Norman," I added with a smile.

Norman returned our farewells with a nod and a warm smile before disappearing into the gym's inner corridors to attend to his duties.

'

'

The walk back to the Pokémon Center was filled with light chatter as Flannery and Roxanne threw out theories about my upcoming meeting with Champion Drake.

"Maybe he's going to offer you some secret mission," Flannery teased, wagging her fingers in mock mystery.

"Or he might be evaluating trainers to recommend to the League," Roxanne speculated, her tone more thoughtful.

"Orrr," Flannery drawled with a smirk, leaning in, "you could just tell us what he wants from you, Michael."

Roxanne nodded, her lips quirking up into a faint smile. "Yes, spill it. We're all ears."

I shrugged, giving them a mischievous grin. "Hmm… no, I think I'll keep you in suspense for now. Maybe after my chat with him, I'll let you know." I stuck my tongue out, earning a groan from Flannery and a quiet chuckle from Roxanne.

"Tease," Flannery huffed, crossing her arms.

"Better than ruining the mystery," I shot back with a grin.

Reaching the center I handed over my Pokémon for a quick check-up while we made plans for the rest of the day.

"By the way we've still got those side quests to tackle," I reminded them, glancing at the mission board near the entrance.

Standing by the mission board near the Pokémon Center's entrance, Flannery gave me a playful grin. "You mean we have side quests. Roxy and I already picked ours. How's that farm job looking, anyway?"

I rubbed the back of my neck, smirking. "Haven't gotten to it yet, but I'm about to head over. I figure Han's itching to chase down some Taillow."

With that, we exchanged goodbyes and split up to tackle our respective missions. Roxanne and Flannery headed toward theirs with purpose, leaving me to start my trek toward the farmlands.

Getting to the farm took more time than I expected. Located on the outskirts of Petalburg, it was a 30-minute walk after the 30-minute taxi ride to escape the city's rush-hour traffic. I groaned at the thought of being stuck in traffic even in the Pokémon world. Some things never change.

Bodhi, ever the mellow one, remained in his Pokéball. After yesterday's battles against Terra and Rocky, he was still a bit sore and drained, even with Nurse Joy's expert care. She'd recommended giving him another day off, and Bodhi didn't seem to mind. I imagined him lounging in his Pokéball, content to take it easy for once.

"Don't worry, buddy," I murmured, tapping the Pokéball on my belt. "You've earned this break. Besides, if Nurse Joy says rest, we rest."

Thankfully, the walk itself wasn't dull. Han was full of energy after his quick check-up at the Pokémon Center. He zipped around, poking at bushes, darting between trees, and scouting every corner of the path.

"Pawmo! Paw!" Han called out, his voice brimming with energy as he raced ahead of me. He carried a stick in his paws, holding it high like a victory trophy. His ears perked up as he looked back at me, his chest puffed out with pride.

"You're gonna need all that energy for the job ahead, buddy," I said with a grin, shaking my head at his antics.

Not to be outdone, Atlas glanced at Han, tilting his head. His eyes narrowed with a glint of determination, and he snorted before darting off to the side. Moments later, he returned, dragging a stick twice as large as Han's. He dropped it in front of me with an eager "Stufful!" before giving Han a pointed look, as if to say, Top that, buddy.

Han's eyes widened as sparks of electricity crackled around his cheeks. "Pawmo! Paw!" he barked back, his voice full of mock outrage. The two locked eyes, sparks (both literal and figurative) flying between them.

"Oh boy," I muttered, crossing my arms as I watched the rivalry unfold. Han stomped his foot and zipped off, returning moments later with a branch so massive he had to drag it along the ground. He smirked at Atlas triumphantly.

Atlas didn't back down. With a determined huff, he dashed off again, scouring the area. When he came back, he was dragging what could only be described as a log, his tail wagging furiously as he dropped it in front of me.

I pinched the bridge of my nose, trying not to laugh. "You two just can't help yourselves, can you?"

Han and Atlas exchanged a look, and while their rivalry didn't disappear, they both gave me sheepish expressions. Still, neither could resist dragging their chosen sticks along the ground like it was some kind of showdown.

"Glad we cleared that up," I muttered, rolling my eyes with a grin as they resumed their silent contest.

The farmlands stretched out before me, a patchwork of green fields and golden crops bordered by wooden fences. In the distance, I could see a flock of Taillow perched on a scarecrow, their chirps echoing across the field.

The farmer, a stocky man in overalls with a sun-weathered face, waved as I approached.

"Howdy there, trainer!" he called, his voice rough but welcoming. "You must be the one taking the job from the board."

"That's me," I replied, giving him a nod. "Michael Kane, here to help with your little bird problem."

"Little, huh?" he said with a chuckle, gesturing toward the flock. "They've been roosting here for weeks now, stealing feed and pestering the Miltank. I'd be mighty grateful if you and your team could help shoo 'em off."

I turned to Han and Atlas. Han's cheeks sparked with excitement, and Atlas wagged his tail, both ready for action.

"Don't worry, sir," I said confidently. "We've got this. Let's try the peaceful way first, though."

'

'

Crouching down, I addressed my team. "Alright, here's the plan. We're gonna try and talk them down first. No fighting unless absolutely necessary."

Han gave me a skeptical look, crossing his arms. Sparks danced faintly across his cheeks as if to say, That's boring, but okay.

Atlas tilted his head and wagged his tail, giving a supportive "Stufful!" Though his expression seemed to ask, And if they don't listen?

"Then we go to Plan B," I replied to his unspoken question, standing up and brushing my hands off. "But let's see if we can save ourselves the trouble first."

I approached the flock cautiously, hands raised in a non-threatening gesture. "Hey there, uh, fine feathered friends," I began, feeling a little ridiculous. The Taillow watched me warily, their heads cocking to the side in unison. "Listen, I know this farm is nice and all, but you're causing a bit of trouble for the farmer here. Any chance you'd consider, you know… relocating?"

The flock began chittering amongst themselves. One particularly bold Taillow hopped forward and gave a sharp chirp, glaring at me as if to say, Who are you to tell us what to do?

"Right, figured that'd be a no," I muttered, scratching the back of my head. "Worth a shot."

Just as I was about to step back, Han sauntered up beside me, his expression brimming with confidence. He jabbed a thumb at himself and puffed out his chest. "Pawmo, paw paw!"

"Oh no," I said under my breath, already sensing where this was going.

Han raised his tiny fists, looking up at the flock with an air of authority. "Pawmo! Pawmo mo mo!" he declared, sparks crackling as he spoke.

"What exactly are you saying, Han?" I asked, rubbing my temples.

Atlas trotted up beside me, tilting his head before glancing at Han with a look that practically screamed, This is going to go great.

The Taillow flock began squawking angrily, their feathers ruffling as they flapped their wings aggressively. The bold Taillow screeched, clearly riling up the others.

Han, undeterred, took a step forward. "Paw! Paw paw MO!" His tone made it clear, Get lost, or I'll fry all of you suckers!

The flock exploded into a frenzy, their cries echoing across the field as they prepared to dive-bomb us. The bold Taillow let out a sharp caw, and a Swellow in the back swooped forward to join them, wings flaring dramatically.

I groaned, pinching the bridge of my nose. "Han, I said diplomacy, not a declaration of war."

Han turned back to me with an innocent shrug, his cheeks sparking mischievously.

Atlas let out a resigned "Stufful…" which I could only imagine translated to, Well, this is your mess now.

"Well," I said, taking a deep breath as I dusted off my hands, "Plan B it is. Alright, team—let's blitz these birds!"

"Alright, Han, you're up!" I shouted, pointing toward the swooping flock. "Let's light 'em up! Thundershock!"

Han leaped into action, his paws crackling with electricity. He launched a concentrated burst of lightning into the air, the arcs splitting as they reached the diving Taillow. Several of the birds screeched as the shock made contact, their movements faltering mid-air.

"Nice hit! Keep it up!" I called, watching Han zip between the fluttering birds.

Atlas, meanwhile, stood firmly by my side, his eyes darting between the descending Taillow and the ground. His tail wagged once, then froze as he noticed a particularly bold Taillow diving straight at me.

"Stufful!" he barked, springing into action.

"Whoa!" I ducked just as the Taillow aimed for my head. Atlas intercepted with a Mega Punch, his paw swinging with surprising speed for such a little guy. The bird squawked loudly, spiraling upward to rejoin the flock.

"Nice save, Atlas!" I cheered. "Stay close, though—they're coming in hot!"

The Taillow regrouped, circling above with the Swellow leading the charge. The larger bird let out a commanding screech, and the flock began to dive en masse.

"Han, Thundershock now! Take out as many as you can!"

Han crouched low before springing upward, his body encased in crackling energy. He collided with two Taillow mid-dive, sending them spinning away as he landed back on the ground with a flourish. Sparks danced off his fur as he looked up, grinning confidently.

"Pawmo!" he barked, as if to say, Who's next?

More Taillow swooped down, focusing on Atlas and me. Atlas growled, his determination etched into his face.

"Alright, buddy! Mega Kick!" I called out.

Atlas lunged forward, his back leg swinging high and connecting with a Taillow that got too close. The bird let out a startled cry before veering off. Another bird swooped low, trying to sneak in from behind, but Atlas spun on his heels with a powerful Brutal Swing, sending it fluttering back to the flock.

"Stufful! Stufful!" Atlas huffed, his eyes locked onto the Swellow now swooping lower.

"Hold on, Atlas," I said, keeping an eye on the Swellow. "Han, Ice Punch that Swellow before it can lead another dive!"

Han darted forward, using quick attack and a nearby rock to leap into the air with frost coating his paw. His punch connected with the Swellow's wing, leaving a trail of icy shards and forcing the bird into an unsteady spiral.

"Great hit, Han!" I cheered, but the Swellow recovered quickly, glaring down at him. It flapped its wings rapidly, creating a gust of wind that stirred up dirt and leaves.

The distraction allowed a few remaining Taillow to dive again, heading straight for Atlas.

"Atlas, Mega Punch!" I ordered.

Atlas growled low, letting the Taillow come close before swinging his paw upward with incredible force. The sheer momentum knocked two Taillow back into the air, disorienting them enough to veer off.

The Swellow, seeing its flock falter, let out another sharp screech, this time directing its energy toward Han. It dove with startling speed, aiming to catch him off guard.

"Han, Quick Attack out of the way and follow up with Thunderpunch!"

Han blurred into motion, dodging the Swellow's beak by a hair before countering with a devastating electrified punch. The impact caused a loud crackle, and the Swellow screeched as it struggled to stay airborne.

"Alright, team—one last push! Han, Wild Charge! Atlas, Mega Punch any stragglers!"

Han's body lit up with intense electricity as he charged toward the flock's remaining members. The Wild Charge surged through multiple Taillow at once, sending them scattering. Atlas held his ground, landing another Mega Punch on a bird brave enough to get close.

Finally, the Swellow let out a frustrated screech, gathering the remaining Taillow and retreating toward the horizon.

"Yeah, that's what I thought!" I shouted after them, grinning. "And stay gone!"

Han landed on the ground, sparks still dancing off his fur as he crossed his arms triumphantly. "Pawmo!" he barked, puffing out his chest.

Atlas stood by him, panting slightly but wagging his tail. He looked up at Han and then at me, as if to say, Did I do good?

"You both crushed it," I said, kneeling to pat them on their heads. "This farm is safe again, thanks to you two."

Han smirked, flicking the stick he'd been carrying earlier into the air and catching it in his paw like a baton. Atlas, not to be outdone, challenged Han with a determined stare.

The sparks in Han's fur reignited, and their eyes locked as they leaned in, the tension practically crackling between them.

"Oh no," I muttered, realizing what was about to happen.

It turned into an all-out contest, with Han spinning his stick around like a martial arts staff and Atlas retaliating by dramatically waving his giant stick around like a sword. Sparks flew both figuratively and literally as they tried to outdo each other.

I sighed, but the smile creeping onto my face betrayed how much I was enjoying the spectacle. "Alright, you two. Save some of that energy for the next job!"

CHAPTER END