A few weeks passed as Haku diligently prepared for the significant challenge ahead. He had gathered all the necessary instruments, including the mysterious Leader’s Crest. He had also negotiated the terms for a unique sparring session among the few Jonin Ninja with Bisharp as partners who have become leaders of a group of chunin and kid gennin with a Pawniard as their starters.
The stakes were not all that high, for his Bisharp that is as he had grown accustomed to his current level of strength and body, but for the potential discovery and confirmation of a new evolutionary form within their community that his son had revealed to him - though admittedly he had heard it from Mr. Suru, a far more reputable source. Without Mr. Suru’s backing of Ishi’s story none of this would have gone forward at all, Ishi is still five years old afterall.
When Haku had met privately with the squad leaders from several divisions who led Bisharps and Pawniards they had been somewhat sceptical until he had mentioned Mr. Suru, respected members within the village who were known for their loyalty and discretion were always given the benefit of the doubt before being questioned.
He had continuously explained the purpose of the challenge and secured their agreement to participate in the controlled sparring session under the observance of Chief Hanzo. The session was framed as a routine test of strength and leadership among the Bisharps, but the underlying goal was to see if the evolution into Kingambit could indeed be triggered. Because even though he had known about it first it was still possible for any of the other Bisharp to earn the Leaders Crest and meet the requirements to evolve.
The Chief and the elders were informed of the potential significance of this event, they had a multitude of reactions ranging from disbelief and denial to eagerness and greed. If successful, it would be a monumental discovery for the village, and future generations would know of this possibility as well so if their descendants could obtain this pokemon then they may be able to hold more sway in council talks.
Once they had discussed and agreed to keep the matter confidential until they could confirm the results and understand the implications fully, and to have the edge over others in the village. Haku had internally sighed when he saw how the elders tried to mask their feelings on the matter, but he was a trained Jonin level ninja so discerning this much was nothing for him, but anyone who was anyone could also tell this especially the Chief whom had met his eyes briefly as if trying to convey his apology. Haku was honestly more sorry for the Chief who had to deal with them day in and day out.
The event was set up with the utmost secrecy to ensure that if Bisharp did evolve into Kingambit, the information could be managed carefully and disclosed at the appropriate time. Moreover, it was decided that Ishi, whose curiosity and knowledge had sparked this exploration, would be rewarded. However, the rewards would be discreet to ensure his safety and prevent any undue attention that could endanger him.
It was also agreed that Ishi’s family would be allowed to house a few more Pokémon from their old teams. This move was officially to increase Ishi’s exposure to and interactions with Pokémon as previously arranged, but unofficially, it would also enhance the family’s security, safeguarding them against any potential threats or repercussions from the discovery. The Chief could be devious when he wanted to, he was a master of conveying the unsaid word, ‘He’d have to be to survive in his role’ Haku mused.
On the day of the sparring session, the village’s training grounds were unusually tense, the usual excitement was overshadowed by what could potentially transpire today. The selected Bisharps, along with each a leader of their respective squads, were brought forward. Haku’s Bisharp stood among them, the Leader’s Crest discreetly attached to it, with Haku standing proudly next to him. Even though he had been the lead organiser, he had also been training the rust out of Bisharps moves and getting his battle spirit all fired up in his off time.
Chief Hanzo, along with a select few elders, observed from a distance, their expressions a mix of anticipation and concern.
The battle commenced with a bit of a stand off and was eventually broken with Haku ordering Bisharp to “Get this Done!” The Bisharps demonstrated their prowess, clashing with strategic finesse and raw power.
Haku watched intently, pride and hope mingling in his chest as his Bisharp held its own against the formidable opponents, his partner was clearly the main focus of his opponents but he’d trained for these types of situations so he didn’t feel all that panicked. Each clash and manoeuvre was a test not just of strength but of leadership and survival - the very qualities said to trigger the evolution - thoughts in attendance seemed to hold their breath at the sight.
Finally, when the dust settled and the final bisharp fell defeated, the outcome of the sparring would reveal more than just a winner. It would potentially uncover a new chapter in the understanding of Pokémon evolution, driven by the curiosity and persistence of a young boy named Ishi, whose innocent question had set it all in motion.
***
Ishi's life in Ninja Village had transformed into an adventure beyond his wildest dreams. Each day brought new experiences and interactions that any young Pokémon enthusiast would cherish. Ever since his initial meeting with Simisage, Ishi had been introduced to an array of Pokémon, each encounter fueling his passion and expanding his understanding of these incredible creatures. And yes he’d even met a few pokemon he’d never appraised before netting him a small bit of Exp that had him all the more eager to meet every pokemon he could.
He had met the entire Fletchling line, from the tiny, chirpy Fletchling to its majestic final form, Talonflame. The sight of Skarmory, with its metallic feathers and imposing presence, had left him in awe. Simipour brought a playful mischief to their meeting, splashing water with a laugh that echoed Ishi’s own delight.
The encounter with an old Greninja had been particularly thrilling; ever since he had seen Ash's Greninja in his favourite Pokémon episodes, he had dreamed of partnering with one himself. The sleek, ninja-like Pokémon had a mystique that resonated deeply with Ishi’s own aspirations.
He had also come across Marill and Azurill, their bubbly and cheerful demeanour making each interaction a joyous occasion. The Pawniard he met were more reserved, their sharp gazes assessing Ishi’s every move, yet they offered him a glimpse into the disciplined life of a Pokémon with a clear hierarchy. And then there was the eerie yet fascinating encounter with Ariados, its webbing a marvel of natural engineering that captivated his young mind. But… the giant poison spider definitely hadn’t been his favourite interaction, the shivers down his spine had lasted for hours after the pokemon had left.
Each Pokémon had left a distinct impression on him, teaching him new aspects of Pokémon behaviour and the diversity of the world he was so eager to explore further. But among all, Greninja stood out as a symbol of what Ishi aspired to be: agile, strong, and enigmatic - qualities that resonated with his ninja training. Plus… Ash Greninja.
Ishi looked forward to the Coming of Age ceremony, his impatience grew; time seemed to crawl too slowly for his liking. He often lay awake at night, imagining the day he would be allowed to choose his first official Pokémon partner. The thought filled him with an indescribable excitement. He daydreamed about the adventures they would have, the battles they would face together, and the bonds they would forge.
In the meantime, Ishi continued to make the most of his days, learning from each Pokémon he met and every lesson he attended. His life in Ninja Village was a tapestry of encounters that enriched his understanding and deepened his resolve to become not just a Pokémon trainer but a great one. He had been spending less time with Mr. Suru as he had been fairly busy with the Chief for some reason, and had been learning all he could about pokemon medicine, diet and care from Mrs. Tanoshi.
Of course he still set out to make the pokeballs for his friends, he’d just have to rely a little less on his sensei and create them to the best of his abilities. He also figured it would be best for him to be as high a level as possible before the ceremony in a few years so set out to focus a lot of time into his “Otherworldly Cultivation Technique”.
“I wanna be the very best, Like no one ever was, To catch them is my real test, To train them is my cause, I will travel across the land, Searching far and wide, Teach Pokémon to understand, The power that's inside…Pokemon!!” he would hum to himself whenever he had got too lost in thought about the future, or when he was swamped with all the ideas he couldn’t wait to try.
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***
The tension in the air was palpable as Haku's partner faced off against one of the other squad leaders' Bisharps in a pure power display of a sparring session. Each clash of blades echoed through the makeshift arena, watched closely by Chief Hanzo and a select group of elders and squad leaders. Their faces bore expressions of intense concentration and curiosity, each aware of the potential significance of the event.
As the battle reached its climax, Haku's Bisharp, adorned with the Leader’s Crest, stood victorious after defeating the three formidable opponents. The last one had been particularly tough as it had bided its time taking pot shots whenever it could until it was just a one on one to try and get as much advantage as it could. And yet still it had been unsuccessful.
The air around them seemed to pulse with anticipation. Suddenly, the Bisharp began to glow intensely. The light was blinding, and when it faded, a new form stood where Bisharp had been. The Pokémon had evolved into Kingambit, a majestic and imposing figure, its stature and demeanour radiating authority and power.
The newly evolved Kingambit let out a powerful cry, a sound that resonated with such authority that the other Pawniards and even the lower level Bisharps, who had watched but hadn’t qualified to participate, instinctively knelt down acknowledging the birth of a new leader among them all. The sight was awe-inspiring, and for a moment, the arena was cloaked in a stunned silence.
Unbeknownst to anyone, the prospected next Chief of Ninja village - Kagetomo - had witnessed the scene with his own recently evolved Bisharp and clenched his jaw and fist and he stared at the pokemon in front of him, ‘I must have this power for myself, with it my Ninja Village could rule the world!’
Haku, overcome with pride and a touch of awe, stepped forward towards his Pokémon. With a mixture of reverence and camaraderie, he lifted his fist in a gesture of respect and partnership. Kingambit responded by touching his fist with its own now completely golden fist, affirming their bond in this new form. This simple act marked a new chapter in their journey together.
The hall then erupted in cheers and adulation, the atmosphere electric with excitement and shock. Some lower kid genin and chunin squad members gasped and looked from their Bisharp or Pawniard and back to the Kingambit with stars in their eyes, others shouted their approval, and a few simply stared in disbelief at the evolution they had just witnessed.
Amid the tumult, Chief Hanzo stood, raising his hands for silence. His voice, when he spoke, carried across the noise, commanding and clear. "Let us calm ourselves," he began, his eyes sweeping over the crowd. "Congratulations are indeed in order for Haku and Kingambit. This is a momentous occasion, and it speaks volumes of the possibilities that still lie within our understanding of Pokémon.”
He paused, ensuring he had everyone's attention. "However, I must insist that none of this leaves this hall until we have fully understood and planned for the implications of this discovery. We must move carefully, to protect not only Kingambit but our village as well."
With his directive clear, Chief Hanzo gestured for the assembly to disperse. People began to leave the hall, murmuring among themselves, their voices a mix of excitement and speculation.
Haku, now accompanied by Kingambit, made his way to the chief's hall to continue the conversation. They needed to discuss the aftermath of the evolution, how to introduce Kingambit to the village, and the measures to ensure the safety and privacy of their new discovery. The weight of the day’s events hung over them, but so did a sense of incredible achievement and potential. As they walked, Haku looked at Kingambit, feeling a profound connection and a renewed sense of purpose. They were stepping into uncharted territory, and together, they were ready to face whatever came next.
***
Ishi made his way home, his mind still swirling with the day's adventures and the Pokémon he'd met, he could hardly have anticipated the scene that awaited him. As he rounded the corner to his house, his steps quickened when he spotted his father standing outside. But it wasn't just Haku waiting for him; beside him stood a magnificent and imposing figure - Kingambit. Ishi's eyes widened in astonishment, the sight nearly knocking the wind out of him. Yet before he could react further, Haku spotted him and grinned widely.
With a burst of excitement, Haku reached down, scooped Ishi up, and playfully tossed him into the air. Ishi's initial shock turned into peals of laughter, the thrill of the surprise catching him in a fit of giggles that echoed around the yard. The joyous noise seemed to soften the formidable aura of Kingambit, who watched the father and son with a stoic yet attentive gaze.
Just then, Shion stepped out of the house, drawn by the sounds of laughter. Her eyes immediately landed on Kingambit, and she froze, stunned by the Pokémon's noble presence. It took a moment for her to process the sight, but the sounds of her husband and son playing pulled her back to the moment. With a warm smile, she called out, "Why don't we take this party inside?”
Both Haku and Ishi agreed, still chuckling as they followed Shion into the house, their spirits high with the excitement of the day's revelations and the unexpected family reunion.
As they moved inside, the house quickly filled with the sounds of an impromptu party. To Ishi’s delight, a few other members of his parents' old Pokémon teams joined the celebration. A sleek Weavile, a mischievous Croagunk, and a playful Sudowoodo made their way into the lively gathering. Ishi wasted no time making friends with them, especially drawn to the Croagunk, whose playful antics matched his own sense of humour.
‘Ok first things first,’ Ishi thought before returning his gaze to the Kingambit standing in the back garden getting all the attention from the other pokemon in the house ‘Appraisal!’
Appraisal: Kingambit (Male) - Can form its prehensile hair into spikes to strike its foes with. Commanding many colonies of Pawniard and Bisharp as its personal army, Kingambit is a powerful force in battle. It has a battle-hungry disposition, and will not stop until it gets what it desires.
Nature: Bold
Ability: Pressure, Supreme Overlord
This Kingambit is recently evolved and is yet to be fully used to its new body!
Confirmed. Quest Progression:
You Have An Extremely Loving Father Who Has Convinced The Chief Of The Village To Bend The Rules Slightly Just For You. Take Advantage Of This As Much As You’re Able!
New Pokemon Appraised: Kingambit
Rewards: 20 Exp
‘Hell yeah!!’ Ishi thought grinning maniacally as he read through all the notifications in front of him, he especially paid attention to the ‘Appraisal’ results and was interested to see the last sentence ‘This Kingambit is recently evolved and is yet to be fully used to its new body!’ ‘It’s given me a weakness to exploit if I was to battle it!’ he mused, ‘This will be incredibly helpful if I am in a battle with someone, and coupled with my aura ability to remain cool headed…’ The Evil grin returned.
"Okay, I wish you both were allowed to see it," Haku started, his voice animated and full of wonder trying to ignore the sweat that had formed on the back of his neck when he had glanced at Ishi.
"There we were in the training grounds, and the air was just charged with tension. All the Bisharps lined up, each looking more formidable than the last. But ours, oh, he stood out with that Leader’s Crest glinting."
Ishi leaned in, his eyes wide. Shion smiled, watching her husband transform into a storyteller, his enthusiasm infectious.
"Then the battle started, and it was like nothing I’ve ever seen," Haku continued, gesturing with his hands to mimic the clash of the Pokémon. "Our Bisharp moved with such precision and power, each strike deliberate and fierce. The other Bisharps were tough opponents, but ours... he was in a league of his own."
"The moment he defeated the third Bisharp, the air around him began to shimmer," Haku said, his voice dropping to a hush, drawing Ishi and Shion further into the narrative. "It was like the air itself was holding its breath. And then, he started to glow. It wasn’t just a faint glow; it was blinding - like the sun had decided to shine right there.”
Ishi's mouth hung open, picturing the scene in his mind's eye, while Shion's expression mixed awe with a touch of pride.
"The light was so bright we all had to shield our eyes," Haku added with a chuckle. "When it finally faded, there stood Kingambit. He was majestic, towering over the others, with a presence so commanding that, I swear, the other Bisharps and even the Pawniards instinctively knelt. It was as if they recognized a new king among them.”
"Wow..." Ishi breathed out, completely caught up in the story. "What did it feel like, Dad, seeing Bisharp evolve like that?"
Haku paused, his face reflecting a mix of emotions. "It was inspiring, Ishi. It reminded me of why I love being a Pokémon trainer. It's not just about battles and strength; it’s about witnessing moments of real change, of growth. Seeing Bisharp evolve... it was like watching a new chapter begin right in front of my eyes.”
As the night drew on, laughter and chatter filled the house, echoing the bonds that tied them all together - bonds of adventure, discovery, and an unwavering love for the Pokémon that shared their lives. It was a night to remember, marking the beginning of new adventures and the deepening of old connections.