Pokémon: A Tale Of Time (Volume One: Zephyr)

Chapter Thirty - Unwelcome And Unexpected!

Sprout Tower loomed majestically over the skyline of Violet City, a symbol of age-old tradition and resilience. Its towering structure, made of dark, ancient wood, stood in stark contrast to the more modern buildings surrounding it.

The central pillar, a massive, flexible beam, could be seen even from a distance, swaying gently with the wind. The tower's ornate, pagoda-style roofs stacked one upon the other, gave it an air of mystery and reverence, while the intricate carvings of Bellsprout and other Pokémon adorned its exterior.

Raido and Nidoran approached the towering structure, their eyes widening at its sheer height. The tower seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky, each floor a testament to the craftsmanship of the monks who maintained it.

"Wow," Raido murmured, craning his neck to take in the full view. "This place is incredible."

Nidoran chirped in agreement, equally awestruck by the magnificent sight.

Outside the entrance, several trainers were gathered, engaged in animated conversations. Raido couldn't help but notice the variety of cool Pokémon they had with them. A Politoed stood happily beside its trainer, occasionally letting out a cheerful croak. Nearby, a tall, regal-looking Ninetales stood elegantly, its nine tails fanned out like a beautiful, fiery halo.

As he observed the scene, Raido's thoughts drifted to the small boy and his desperation to have his very own Bellsprout. The boy's tears and his father's heartfelt story weighed heavily on Raido's mind. He knew how much this meant to them, and he was determined to help make the boy's birthday wish come true.

"I can't let that boy down," Raido said to himself, clenching his fist with determination. "We have to find a Bellsprout for him."

Nidoran looked up at Raido, sensing his resolve, and chirped encouragingly.

With renewed purpose, Raido walked towards the entrance of Sprout Tower. He could hear the faint sounds of chanting from within, a rhythmic, soothing melody that seemed to resonate with the very wood of the building. The doors, large and intricately carved with the images of Bellsprout, stood open, welcoming visitors to the sacred space within.

Raido and Nidoran approached the grand entrance of Sprout Tower, the heavy wooden doors carved with intricate depictions of Bellsprout in various poses. Raido turned to his companion, determination clear in his eyes.

"Surely someone inside here must know where I can find a Bellsprout," he said, pushing the doors open.

Inside, the tower's interior was a breath-taking testament to ancient craftsmanship. Every inch of the space was adorned with wooden carvings and inlaid patterns, telling stories of nature and harmony. The central pillar, rumoured to be a massive Bellsprout itself, stretched from floor to ceiling, swaying gently and giving the entire structure a sense of life and movement. Lanterns hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, golden glow that danced across the polished wooden floors.

Raido marvelled at the ornate surroundings as he walked further into the tower. The air was filled with the scent of incense, and the soft chanting of the monks echoed through the halls, creating a serene atmosphere. The monks, dressed in simple yet elegant robes of earthy tones, moved with grace and purpose. Each monk had a serene expression, their eyes reflecting wisdom and peace.

As Raido continued to explore, he spotted a group of monks dressed in deep green robes, each with a single golden leaf embroidered on their chest. They were gathered in a circle, and at the centre was a monk who stood out from the rest. His robe was a rich, deep brown, and he wore a belt of braided vines around his waist. His presence was commanding yet gentle, and he seemed to exude an air of quiet authority.

Raido made his way through the small congregation, moving to the front to see what was happening. In the middle of the circle, the monk moved in perfect synchrony with a large, majestic Bellsprout. The monk's movements were fluid and deliberate, a graceful display of martial arts combined with a meditative dance. Each step he took, each motion of his arms, was mirrored flawlessly by the Bellsprout. It was as if they were connected on a deeper level, their energies perfectly aligned.

The monk and Bellsprout shifted through various forms: slow, deliberate movements that transitioned into faster, more dynamic sequences. They spun, kicked, and flowed through the air with an elegance that captivated the audience. The Bellsprout's leaves shimmered in the lantern light, and its flexible stem seemed to ripple with every motion.

Raido watched in awe, realising that this must be the Elder the father had spoken about. The monk's bond with his Bellsprout was unlike anything Raido had ever seen. It was clear that they shared a deep connection and an understanding that went beyond mere training.

As the demonstration concluded, the crowd erupted in applause, and the monk bowed deeply to his Bellsprout before turning to address the spectators.

"Thank you, friends," the monk said, his voice calm and soothing. "May the harmony between Pokémon and trainer inspire you all in your journeys."

Raido felt a surge of excitement. This was his chance to get the information he needed. He stepped forward, Nidoran by his side, and approached the monk.

"Elder," Raido began, his voice respectful but earnest, "May I ask for your advice?".

As Raido waited for the Elder's guidance, he noticed a sudden change in the monk's demeanour. The Elder's calm and inviting expression shifted to one of intense scrutiny. His eyes narrowed, and a shadow seemed to cross his face as he studied Raido more closely.

The shift was so abrupt that it took Raido by surprise. He watched as the Elder's features hardened, a sternness settling into his once-gentle gaze. The serene atmosphere of Sprout Tower seemed to grow tense, the monks around them falling silent as they sensed the change.

"You," the Elder said, his voice now carrying an edge that hadn't been there before. "You are not welcome here."

Raido blinked, stunned by the sudden hostility. "But— I don't understand. I just—"

"Leave!" the Elder's voice boomed through the hall, echoing off the wooden walls.