The days passed slowly while Kenji waited for his twisted ankle to heal. With Pokémon Hunters in the area, he found himself unwilling to return to the safety of his camp. The chances of the unsworn Warriors stumbling upon him were too high.


    No, it was better that he continue his progress towards escape from the wild lands, slow as it was. He found Flutter resting on the sled after he shouted at the Pokémon. After apologizing to the butterfly, they worked together to bind his ankle with silk and wood.


    The beast was still hesitant, especially after his earlier outburst, but Kenji encouraged the Pokémon with soft words.


    Moving the sled, on the other hand, was a far more aggravating experience. After a few painful attempts, particularly one failure that left him on the ground with teeth clenched against a scream, Kenji reevaluated how to move the sled.


    His first thought was to move in half steps, only placing weight on his injured foot when switching to the other. The method, while suitable, was painfully slow and saw him move only a span in half a bell''s time. At such a rate, he was better off camping in place until he recovered.


    Kenji''s other thought was to find a set of branches he could use as crutches. Only, not for himself.


    Searching for branches that formed a natural crook consumed much of his remaining daylight. With wraps of silk, Kenji secured the tree branches to the handles of the sled. The sun was setting by the time he was able to test the construction.


    He was pleased to discover that he was able to move faster with the sled crutches. While it was still a heavily reduced speed, perhaps half of what he was able to travel before his injury, Kenji still viewed it as progress.


    At night, he rested by the river after a wash in the cool waters. The cold helped numb his ankle, especially when he rested in the flowing river. Of course, in the morning, the painful heat made itself known once more.


    For all that, Kenji discovered one benefit to his slowed trek.


    Sprout.


    Or rather, the turtle''s ability to keep pace with him. While the young beast still required frequent breaks to recover, they were able to travel all day without him having to rest upon the sled. Fortunate, considering that he was unsure if he could even drag carry all their supplies and the heavy turtle in his condition.


    While they traveled, Kenji maintained a close eye on their surroundings. Similarly, Flutter seemed reluctant to stray too far. A development he approved of. Especially when escape was no longer possible for Sprout or Kenji.


    To encourage the two Pokémon, Kenji dedicated effort to training the two.


    "Flutter, Stir Up Wind," he called out to the butterfly as the beast wove between the trees.


    "Beauti!" the beast trilled.


    Immediately, the bug started to flap its wings, creating a strong gust to blow through the forest.


    "Keep it up," he encouraged. Turning his attention to Sprout he said, "Your turn. Withdraw into your Shell."


    The turtle chirped eagerly, merely happy to be included, Kenji suspected. Nevertheless, the beast did as he instructed, a glimmer of blue Energy coating its hard scales.


    "Come on, Sprout, you can do it," he said while keeping an eye on the Beautifly as the flying bug continued to use its technique. "And don''t let him beat you, Flutter," he said louder to be heard over the wind.


    "Tifly," the bug squealed with determination.


    While he was wary of putting them into conflict with each other, Kenji discovered that the two were slightly competitive. At least, when a snack was involved. At first, the more evolved Pokémon was winning the simple competition he placed them in. However, as Sprout familiarized himself more with his Type Energy, the turtle quickly began to outpace the older Pokémon.


    "Come on, Flutter, you can do it!" he called as he continued to move forward. "Sprout, since you''re able to beat Flutter, try making your shell stronger and more durable. Enhance your technique instead of simply using it."


    Surprisingly, Kenji felt himself drawn into the competition between the two as well. Rather than giving in to exhaustion or pain, he forced himself to take one more step. Reach the next tree or even one beyond that, repeating the process until he could go no more.


    Occasionally, during their short breaks or nightly stops for rest, the three of them gathered together for a short period of cultivation.


    While Sprout continued to familiarize himself with Type Energy and Flutter sought to enhance its reserves, Kenji practiced falling in and out of meditation. He wished to reach a state where it was still possible for him to cultivate while moving. The skill was an advanced one, typically only achieved by mystics or gifted Warriors.


    Nevertheless, Kenji thought it was one that he could obtain. Especially when true cultivation was largely useless for him. The little energy that his body managed to absorb was constantly drawn into his spirit. It naturally enhanced his body as it was drawn in, but the worry was that his spiritual seed outpaced the cultivation of his physical body.


    Periodically, he discovered a wisp of Ghostly Energy clinging to him and he carefully guided it down the connection to his bond. The Energy''s attraction to him was unnerving, and not a thought that he wished to dwell on.


    In the distance, the mountains loomed larger with each step. The forested plateau fell off to the wayside as the river flowed from the snow touched peaks. As he traveled, details slowly emerged on the mountain face.


    Enormous boulders and shear drops decorated the mountains. The surface appeared largely free of any plant life, a stark contrast to the lively forest he found himself in. Kenji only hoped that the imposing height would grant him a wider view of the lands he found himself in.


    Turning his gaze away from the mountains, Kenji tiredly pulled himself out of the river. While the foot was still tender, he was pleased to find that the discolored bruises were already fading. The swelling was down significantly as well, leaving only a sense of lingering weakness.


    Honestly, he was surprised that the injury was so quick to heal, especially with the strain he was putting on the foot.


    "As long as I can finally rid myself of those accursed crutches," Kenji muttered with a yawn.


    After a series of stretches to relax his body from the day''s efforts, Kenji picked up his most recent project and a cocoon of stone flakes from his pack. The length of wood was among the straightest that he could find, with an interesting knurl tipping the branch.


    Sitting down next to Sprout and the propped up sled, he settled the future staff across his lap. Flutter was off, searching for flowers or a beast to fight, though hopefully not one so easily riled.


    "Not that it influenced my decision," he told the wood and turtle. The Pokémon only grumbled at his words, used to his commentary, while the staff remained blessedly silent.


    For should it ever begin to respond, would be the day Kenji feared for his mind. Seeing as today was not that day, he placed the sharp flake of stone against the wood and started to slice through the wood.


    "Only once did I allow beauty to influence my selection," he continued, "And it was a mistake my father corrected thoroughly."


    In truth, the mistake was made more than once. However, the incident he spoke of was his first staff carving.


    "For you see, while many a Warrior relied upon another for their weapons, my father was of a different mind."


    After extensive lessons from both his father and several woodcarvers, Sato Isamu finally deemed his son passable in the Art of Woodcarving. As such, he was handed a length of oak wood and told to carve a bō.


    "It was a work of beauty," he said dreamily. "For father allowed me the freedom to work on it as I wished."


    Delicate flowers and strong vines curled along the length of it, with fierce beasts glaring intently at any who lay their eyes upon the staff.


    "Even my mother commented on it, saying that it was feat worthy of her people," he said, "Not that she ever talked about them," he added somewhat bitterly.


    The dark skinned woman was tight lipped about her history, with even his father forbidding Kenji''s persistent questions about her foreign appearance. She was so unlike the other people of Greenleaf, and as her son, he appeared differently as well. It was a contentious topic, especially when others commented upon it.


    Now, all that remained of her was the pendant she placed around his neck and the face that separated him from the rest of the village.


    Rubbing at his eyes, Kenji continued his story as though nothing had occurred. He was forced to replace his stone, the first already too dull to whittle away at the strong wood. Tossing the used flake into the river, he resumed speaking.


    "My father said little of the work, only grunting when I showed it to him. Then came the day that I declared the staff finished," Kenji said with a sigh. "I presented it to him, proudly thinking that he would congratulate me on the excellent craftsmanship. Instead, he looked at it with disgust!" Kenji chortled. "''Art is not in the weapon but how it is wielded'' he said to me," Kenji intoned seriously, trying to mimic his father''s voice.


    "He handed me back the staff and told me to attack him with it. In that instant, I understood my mistake. I was told to carve a staff, not a piece of art." Kenji explained. "Of course, my father was not so willing to leave it there. Instead, he forced me to battle him, my staff against his bare hands."


    Within two strikes, the beautifully carved staff, whittled away at for nearly a quarter of a season, was broken in two. His father did not hesitate, striking at Kenji until he defended himself with the split pieces. Their fight continued until the useless weapon was splinters in his hand.


    "I was fighting back tears, with wood piercing my hands, when the old man gave me another piece of wood and told me to try again."


    Kenji held the half-finished staff up to the fading sunlight. He was most familiar with the bō, though his father trained him in a few more styles of battle, namely his body. Regardless, bōjutsu remained his first great passion.


    There was just something about using the trimmings of a tree, rightfully given, that resonated with Kenji.


    "But enough about me," he said as he set down the length of wood. Turning his gaze upon Sprout, he asked the Pokémon, "Perhaps one day, we''ll learn the story of you, yes? How does a young turtle like you end up all alone in this great big forest."


    The beast in question was, of course, asleep already. After a long day of walking and training, the young Pokémon was exhausted. Tomorrow the turtle would be wide awake with the energy to match.


    Petting the hard shell, Kenji wondered at the beast''s origins before giving in to the pull of sleep. Climbing underneath the lean-to, he slept easily until the piercing trill of Flutter awoke him. Yawning widely, he traveled to the river to splash the cold water upon his face. The chill woke him fully, leaving his skin stinging.


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    Stumbling back to his sled, he plucked free several fruits to munch on. The simple breakfast left his fingers sticky and he grumbled at the mess.


    "One would think I would have learned by now," he sighed as he woke Sprout with a nudge. The turtle whined and Kenji set his breakfast down to help wake the Pokémon.


    "Good morning, Flutter," he greeted the butterfly. "Thank you for waking me."


    "Ti, ti," the Beautifly trilled.


    While he waited for the younger beast to uproot himself, Kenji pulled down the sled and placed it on the ground with a grunt. New territory meant new opportunities for foraging, and he was sure to keep the frame as loaded as he could bear to carry.


    After tying the unfinished staff to the sled, he pulled on the pack. As he did so, he noted that the straps were beginning to fray and would need replacing soon.


    He was distracted from his inspection by Sprout''s warbles of complaint. The little turtle was not a morning Pokémon, and often voiced his displeasure at being woken so early.


    "Another day, another hike," Kenji said, trying to be positive. "And hopefully as uneventfully as the past few days."


    The most exciting moment was when an unfamiliar bug suddenly attacked Flutter. Strangely, the beast was easily warded off, his companion only having to use a simple gust to blow the other Pokémon away before Kenji could inspect it closer.


    After Sprout climbed free of the shallow hole, he escorted the turtle to the river. There, the beast splashed merrily in the water, until Kenji finally called for him to return. He did so reluctantly, and then the three set off.


    Moving through the forest, Kenji felt energized. It took him longer than he cared to admit to realize that he was stepping without a twinge of complaint from his ankle. Upon discovering so, he let out a cheer and decided to test the foot. Jumping in place and sprinting between the trees, he was thrilled to find that there was not the slightest hint of his injury. He tossed the aggravating sled crutches into the forest with a shout of joy.


    With a smile on his face, he continued to hike through the forest. Sprout kept apace easily, chirping in interest at the odd plant or snapping up a flower to chew upon. Flutter was excited by the growing number of vibrant plants they discovered.


    To Kenji''s surprise, there was a notable number of blooming bushes. More were heavy with fruit and berries, the soil barely spotted with overly ripened selections.


    Similarly, the forest grew livelier, with the strangely colored squirrels appearing momentarily before racing away. While his one-time nemesis brought a small frown to his face, it did not stay there for long. Small flocks fluttered to the forest floor, eyeing him warily as they feasted upon the available vegetation.


    Kenji stared back at them freely, the large black and white Pokémon leading the flock watching him intently. A small tuft rose atop its head, the feathers seemingly curled intentionally. He passed the beasts with a small wave, leaving the Staravia and its flock behind.


    It was only when soft, bumbling music started to drift through the forest that Kenji realized something was off. Freezing in place, he tilted his head in confusion.


    The noise sounded unlike anything he ever heard. It was as though a group of bells were being rung together. While there did not seem to be an intention behind the music, he was intrigued. Kenji lost himself to the sound for a moment, simply enjoying the soft ping of noise.


    It was then that Kenji realized his insides were itching.


    Broken out of the reverie, he immediately called for his companions.


    "Sprout, Flutter," he snapped, "To me."


    The two Pokémon cried out in confusion and worry, retreating towards him. Sprout cowered at his feet, the blue film of Energy signifying that the beast was protected and ready to be picked up at a moment''s notice.


    Meanwhile, Flutter peered into the forest with its large, clear eyes. They were narrowed watchfully as the bug guard against the oncoming threat.


    Kenji stared into the forest as well, before returning his attention inward.


    Now that he was aware of it, he could sense the Type Energy coating his skin. Unlike the ethereal wisps that did not seem wholly present, this was a burrowing thread that wanted to plant itself deep.


    The sensation was as familiar to him as the voice of his father, as the Warrior lectured him on the art of cultivation.


    Breathing deep, Kenji welcomed the Grass Energy into his body and spirit. The green power soaked through his skin and muscle, deep into his bones and beyond. His spirit absorbed the energy readily, the seed glowing with health.


    For a brief moment, Kenji felt revitalized. His aura expanded to touch his companions and the surrounding forest. His link flared to life, the spirit within his mother''s amulet rejoicing. Power flooded his limbs and Kenji felt as though he could conquer a kingdom.


    Then it was gone.


    Staggering in place, Kenji was struck by the sudden absence of strength and connection. The world dulled, and his spirit sequestered itself once more. Feeling more isolated than before, he let out a shuddering breath.


    "Beau?" his flying companions trilled in concern.


    Kenji looked up to see that Pokémon looking at him, worry evident in its eyes.


    "I''m fine," he struggled to say. "Really, nothing to be concerned with."


    "Ti?" the butterfly chirped with doubt.


    To escape the beast''s gaze, Kenji turned his towards Sprout.


    "It''s all clear, little one," he told the turtle. "You can come on out."


    The young Pokémon did so with a speed Kenji was not expecting, and he blinked in surprise.


    "Of course," he laughed, "You both knew long before I did. Foolish of me."


    Dropping the sled, he leaned down to rub Sprout''s leathery hide.


    "This is an excellent environment for you, little one," he said. "Feel the Energy in the air and earth. Reach for it with your spirit and let it be consumed by your aura."


    The young turtle warbled uncertainly at his words. Kenji merely sighed and let the Pokémon resume its energetic stride. Grabbing the sled, Flutter and Kenji found themselves following the turtle as it meandered through the forest.


    At first Kenji was confused, not wanting to stray from the river. However, Sprout was insistent and he soon discovered why.


    The Type Energy grew stronger as they traveled, the trees rising even higher as they transitioned into a truly ancient forest. The air was heavy with age and importance, quieting even Flutter in silence. Roots grew thick along the ground, badly disguised by the thick underbrush.


    More often than not, Kenji found himself scrambling under or over the exposed wood. Several of the typically hidden roots were large enough to be considered full trees in their own right.


    With the Energy crawling beneath his skin, Kenji finally gave thought to what sort of beasts would reside in such a mystical realm.


    His imagination turned wild and, when he was finally ready to retreat, Sprout chirped with abandon.


    Kenji dropped his sled, racing forward to the turtle that had wandered beyond his sight.


    Spotting the young Pokémon, he raced upon with concern, understanding too late that the beast was only excited. Stumbling into a slow walk, he nearly fell as the pack on his shoulder unbalanced him.


    "Sprout, you should know better than to scare me like that," he scolded.


    The turtle looked at him, its beak opening wide to warble at him.


    Kenji crouched to pat his head, the scales soft under his palm.


    "Honestly," he sighed. "What has gotten into you," Kenji''s voice trailed off as he casually glanced upwards.


    A giant boulder, worn by time and marked with age, dominated a large clearing between the elder trees. A thick coating of moss grew freely on the stone, droplets of morning dew still clinging to the green. Small plants and flowers dotted the surface, with rays of sunlight shining upon them.


    Small Pokémon raced along the forest floor, their bodies camouflaged by the vibrant flowers and shrubs that grew freely. The sound of overlapping bells was emitted by bumbling bugs, their formal exoskeletons waddling back and forth. Large, black antennae chimed as they struck each other.


    Other Beautifly wandered the glade, their wings refracting the light and only serving to add more color. Rabbits leapt about, their noses wrinkling his direction, and they cowered behind a larger, decidedly more feminine form.


    Kenji blinked in surprise at the sight, thinking for a moment that he encountered a strangely furred individual before his eyes landed on the raised limbs. Fists were directed in his direction and a leg half lifted, ready to lash out should he present a threat.


    All of a sudden, Kenji''s mind shifted as he viewed the clearing through a new light. Details emerged and were made clearer as he better understood what he was seeing.


    The animals were not flitting about eagerly or making joyful noise to fill the glade. Flowers were not bent towards him by an absent wind nor were beasts eyeing him with interest.


    His skin paled at the implications as he suddenly understood what he was witnessing.


    They were terrified of him and, more alarming, a wrong movement away from preemptively defending themselves.


    Kenji stuttered and felt his stomach drop as his heart skipped a bit. For a moment, he thought he felt a stir from his bond before it stilled.


    From the massive, moss-covered boulder, a pulse leapt through the ambient Grass Energy. The Pokémon took notice immediately, relaxing slightly in reaction.


    Kenji did not.


    If anything, he felt as though his heart was clawing its way up his throat.


    Swallowing thickly, he watched as a figure glided through the plants. The beast moved with a grace that brought memories drifting to the front of his mind. Of another clearing where he found himself the trespasser.


    It was difficult for him to make out as the creature''s body at first as it was draped in shades of green. White petals bloomed upwards from a verdant mask. Bouquets of red and blue roses grew from its limbs, uplifted towards the sun as the beast swayed forwards. A leafy cape followed, further serving to signify the majesty of the Pokémon.


    The beast only stood half his height, yet the aura it released nearly drove him to his knees. Panting through his nose, Kenji clenched his teeth in determination. Despite the difference in size, it felt like the boulder itself was bearing down upon him. Though, judging by the resolute expression on the Pokémon''s face, the boulder would be more welcome.