Pokémon: Trainer Paul

Hearthome City - Pokémon Center

Returning the Poké Balls to his pocket, Paul pulled out his Pokédex to scan Dewott.

Even without the scan, Paul already had a clear grasp of Dewott's potential. However, using the Pokédex was essential—not only to confirm its capabilities but also to gather vital information about the Pokémon.

A competent Trainer must always keep track of their Pokémon's basic details, including their known moves. This is a fundamental skill.

Even Ash Ketchum, back in the early days of his journey, at least knew the moves his Pokémon could use.

Paul certainly wasn't going to embarrass himself in battle by calling for "Water Gun" and having Dewott unleash a perfectly executed Hydro Pump instead.

Dewott

Type: Water

Ability: Shell Armor (prevents critical hits)

Gender: Male

Moves: Hydro Pump, Aqua Jet, Razor Shell, Fury Cutter, Night Slash, Swords Dance, Focus Energy, Aerial Ace

Height: 0.9 m

Weight: ...

"This potential... not bad." Paul remarked after reviewing the data.

Combining the Pokédex information with his observations, Paul concluded that Dewott's overall potential was at least on par with his Electabuzz and Turtwig.

In terms of using its scalchops as blades, Dewott was undoubtedly exceptional, demonstrating top-tier talent in this area.

It was this skill that enabled it to master moves like Swords Dance, Fury Cutter, Night Slash, and Aerial Ace—techniques reliant on scalchop precision.

This talent made Dewott a Pokémon worth investing in for further training. Its future was bright.

After taking a moment to compose himself, Paul approached the communicator and dialed Reggie.

"Why are you calling me so late, Paul? I've been waiting forever!"

Reggie, who had been expecting the call for some time, expressed mild annoyance.

"I was busy. I just traded my Kabuto for a Dewott with another Trainer." Paul explained curtly.

The Kabuto, while talented, had a lazy personality that didn't suit Paul. However, it was ideal for many other Trainers.

"A Dewott? Sounds like a promising trade."

"It got a strong spirit and a desire to grow stronger." Paul replied.

"Well, as long as you're satisfied. Speaking of Fossil Pokémon, I should thank you again for the eight Fossil Pokémon you sent me. They've been incredibly helpful for the breeders at my daycare to study."

Reggie wasn't lacking Fossil Pokémon at his daycare, but the ones Paul provided—descendants of ancient species that had adapted to modern environments—were invaluable for research.

"For breeders, studying these Pokémon offers insights into raising the revived ones." Reggie continued.

"I'm glad they were helpful. By the way, can you send Ursaring back to me? I'll send Electabuzz to you later."

Paul's main purpose for contacting Reggie was to arrange for the transfer of their Pokémon. While Electabuzz needed a bit more time, Ursaring's training was complete and ready to return.

"Sure, give me a moment." Reggie said, stepping off-screen to initiate the transfer.

Soon, the Poké Ball containing Ursaring arrived at Paul's transfer station.

"I've received it. Thanks, Reggie. I'll send Electabuzz later."

"Take your time. I'm always available." Reggie said with a warm smile.

Paul was about to hang up when Reggie stopped him.

"Wait! Don't hang up just yet—I've got someone here who wants to say hello."

Paul turned, noticing Nurse Joy standing behind him with a sheepish smile.

"Hi there! Let me borrow your brother for a moment." Nurse Joy said, sticking out her tongue playfully.

Paul, understanding the situation, left the room quietly to give them privacy.

Pokémon Center Courtyard

The evening was calm and quiet. Paul walked to a secluded spot, released all his Pokémon and leaned against a tree.

"Come out, everyone."

"Buzz!"

"Twiig!"

"Vuul!"

"Chaa!"

"Ursaa!"

Excluding Gible, who was still back at Reggie's daycare practicing Dragon Dance, the rest of Paul's team emerged, eager to interact.

"Relax. This is your downtime." Paul said, his tone unusually gentle as he gazed at his Pokémon.

Rather than formally introducing Dewott, Paul let his team bond naturally. Soon, the Pokémon began mingling and exchanging greetings.

Electabuzz strutted confidently over to Ursaring, sizing up the towering bear.

"Buzz!"

It raised an eyebrow, wondering how Ursaring had grown so large.

"Ursa!"

Flexing its muscles proudly, Ursaring responded with a grin.

Electabuzz smirked and slapped Ursaring's leg, inviting it to a friendly competition of strength.

Meanwhile, Turtwig and Vulpix approached Dewott, welcoming the new addition with curiosity and warmth.

Dewott nodded in acknowledgment, pleased with the camaraderie of its new teammates.

Observing Electabuzz and Ursaring wrestling nearby, Dewott felt a sense of belonging it hadn't experienced before.

It turned to Turtwig with a determined gaze.

"I want to challenge you!"

Turtwig glanced at Paul, then shook its head gently. It explained that battles and intense training could wait until tomorrow.

For now, this was a time to rest, bond, and share experiences.

Even Electabuzz and Ursaring were merely testing their strength, avoiding the use of moves to keep things lighthearted.

Understanding, Dewott withdrew to an open space. It unsheathed its scalchops, closed its eyes, and began practicing its sword techniques.

In the past, Dewott had been hesitant and overly compassionate in battles, adhering rigidly to form and honor.

But now, it had embraced a new philosophy: ruthless precision.

Sometimes, ruthlessness in battle was necessary to secure a victory. And outside of battle, ruthlessness could be the key to personal growth and transformation.

The scalchops danced through the air, creating an unyielding rhythm like the relentless waves of the ocean.

As Paul glanced at his team—some sparring, others reflecting or honing their skills—he felt a rare moment of peace.

The night was long, yet fleeting.

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