Although without a Pokeball, Cherrim would still obey Natsuhiko, Natsuhiko chose to capture it with a Pokeball.
The final piece to conquer this area was in place.
Togetic no longer needs to assume the role of a part-time caregiver.
The emergence of a full-time caregiver freed up some of Togetic's energy.
Natsuhiko could finally start attempting to conquer the map.
Starting from the relatively weaker areas he explored that connected to his territory.
The upcoming period would undeniably be a long battle phase.
Watching Togetic naturally mingle with Cherrim.
No choice.
Togetic finally welcomes a Pokémon smaller than itself, and since they're "good sisters," it's only natural to get along well.
Cherrim was a bit reserved initially, although its perception of Natsuhiko changed considerably, the Tyrantrum below was a menacing presence that troubled them for a long time, truly daunting.
Fortunately, Togetic's presence helped Cherrim gradually relax.
As they headed to the next destination, Natsuhiko couldn't help but glance at the sky.
A vast expanse of white, no sun nor clouds, yet there's a warmth of sunlight felt on the body, indicating it's currently Sunny Day.
This is also why Cherrim's "Flower Ceremony" trait is triggered.
During nighttime, he observed, no moon nor stars, yet the coolness of moonlight could be felt.
"This space is truly unique," he couldn't help but marvel.
Before long.
Leaving Cherrim's habitat, Natsuhiko and several Pokémon under Tyrantrum's support arrived at another area connecting Tyrantrum's territory.
It's another forest, but somewhat distinctive from other places.
The humidity is extraordinarily high, a faint film drifts in the forest, the soil feels slightly moist, and glimpses of deeper-colored dirt occasionally bubble up, indicating a swampy area.
Additionally, the forest trees are generally shorter here, dense underbrush makes visibility limited, and movement inconvenient.
Despite Tyrantrum's warning, Natsuhiko did not hesitate, signaling Tyrantrum to proceed.
Being courteous with Cherrim and the others was due to his idea of possibly taking them out of this space later, having them "work" for him.
But for the Pokémon residing in this forest, courtesy isn't necessary.
Tyrantrum dared not defy Natsuhiko's command, stepping heavily into the woods.
Its massive size and weight cause each step to sink, yet its broad feet increase the force area, preventing complete submersion.
As they entered, residing Pokémon in the forest displayed their "warm" hospitality to these outsiders.
Whoosh whoosh whoosh—
In the shrubbery, green figures with giant mouths darted out.
Heads taking up nearly half their body size, mouths able to open to 180 degrees, with body and limbs resembling stems and leaves, looking like a plant sprouting straight out of the ground, resembling a Venus flytrap.
Grass-type Pokémon, Carnivine.
The prepared Pokémon launched their counterattack.
Beedrill's wings charged with electricity, its figure swiftly arcing through the air, taking down all the Carnivine within the arc's range.
Togetic waved its little hands, repeatedly using Divine Power to cause many Carnivine to wither mid-flight, dropping to the ground.
Yujira unfolded the Psychic Arena, blue halos flowing through its eyes, Spirit Blades danced wildly to tackle Carnivine left by Beedrill and Togetic.
Doublade drew its swords, not directly joining the battle but using sharp blades to cut away overhead branches and treetops, allowing sunlight to shine through.
Cherrim somehow already sat on Natsuhiko's shoulder, looking tense and moving stiffly, still somewhat fearful of Natsuhiko.
The Flower Ceremony trait was triggered, the scattered cherry blossom petals in the covered area adhered to Beedrill and the others, providing a considerable boost.
With Cherrim's inclusion, Natsuhiko's battle command strategy shifted.
No longer conservative, attacking while defending simultaneously.
Now, unless facing particularly powerful Carnivine, the Pokémon's attacks were fierce, an aggressive posture oblivious to defense, beating the approaching Carnivine back step by step.
"Cherrim, Healing Fluctuation," Natsuhiko spoke calmly.
Upon hearing Natsuhiko's words, Cherrim flinched.
Not daring to hesitate, quickly casting Healing Fluctuation on the Beedrill in the forefront.
Scratches and minor injuries on Beedrill healed in a blink.
Expended energy rapidly replenished under the effect of Healing Fluctuation.
Seeing its Healing Fluctuation taking effect, Cherrim quietly breathed a sigh of relief.
Cautiously glancing at the side's Natsuhiko, his resolute features, calm expression, composed state, and deep-rooted confidence made Cherrim's impression of him change further.
Seems like...
He's not fierce.
"Let the sunlight be stronger, Sunny Day."
Natsuhiko did not notice Cherrim's change, his focus entirely on the battling Pokémon.
Even though defense could be disregarded, there are still prerequisites.
Truly abandoning defense carelessly might lead to disastrous outcomes.
Disregarding defense merely denotes the stance of giving up defense, but evasion is necessary when conditions arise.
Different adjustments must be made according to each Pokémon's conditions.
"Ying Treasure."
Cherrim nodded, spreading its arms, emitting warm energy from within.
The sky quickly brightened, the light felt even warmer.
Conversely, the cherry blossom petals scattered under Cherrim's "Flower Ceremony" trait increased, amplifying Pokémon's abilities further.
Feeling the change, Natsuhiko nodded in contentment.
Indeed, natural Sunny Day and Sunny Day weather under the trait offer different boosts to Cherrim's "Flower Ceremony."
"Help," Natsuhiko added.
Cherrim gradually familiarized with Natsuhiko's command style, budding petals like rings encircling Beedrill.
Beedrill's attack became even more fierce.
With "Help" boost, Beedrill defeated an Elite Level Carnivine in full vigor with just a single Cross Cut.
Though not the pinnacle among Elite Level, it indeed signified Beedrill's enhanced offensive capability with Cherrim's support.
Help: supporting companions, the aided Pokémon's technique will see a power surge.
This was the function capable of a purely auxiliary Pokémon.
"Flower Ceremony" augments attack and special defense, "Help" further reinforces technique power, alongside Healing Fluctuation, Grass Arena, Aromatherapy, and Wish of Healing techniques, allowed Beedrill to fight unreservedly.
A Carnivine territory not weaker in strength than Cherrim's habitat.
Was effortlessly cleared by Natsuhiko along with five Pokémon.
Experiencing the benefits and aid from Cherrim's boosts, Beedrill and others accepted Cherrim markedly more.
A valuable auxiliary Pokémon truly enhances overall strength significantly.
This is the classic one-protect-four tactic!
After sweeping Carnivine's territory, a brief rest and adjustment, Natsuhiko proceeded to the next location once again.
——————
Requesting a double monthly ticket.