Chapter 9: Grookey's Past and Decision

"Mr. Summer, you might want to consider training Grookey. That way, you can better protect the forest, don't you think?"

Marnie's parting words left Summer pondering whether to train Grookey. She was right; a stronger Grookey could indeed offer better protection for the forest.

In this world, humans and Pokémon share a close relationship, with Pokémon serving as vital partners in various fields. Examples include Electabuzz in power plants, Pelipper in the delivery industry, and Alcremie in dessert shops. Thus, becoming partners with Pokémon is not an exclusive privilege of trainers. However, the decision to train a Pokémon to become stronger requires careful consideration.

Though Grookey had grown more lively and less timid than when they first met, Summer could still sense its delicate heart. Grookey would seek approval for every action, seemingly afraid of losing something.

Summer wanted Grookey to become more confident, and gaining strength was undoubtedly a way to bolster its self-confidence.

If Summer requested it, Grookey would likely give its all. However, it was essential to understand Grookey's true desires.

As Summer sat on a wooden chair, deep in thought, Grookey stayed quietly by his side, careful and unassuming.

"Grookey," Summer called out.

"Groo!" Grookey responded immediately.

"Do you want to become stronger? Don't accommodate me; think about what you genuinely want," Summer asked seriously, looking into Grookey's eyes.

"Groo..."

Summer's question made Grookey anxious. It feared being abandoned if it expressed reluctance. Unlike the Morpeko and Corvisquire that got along well with Summer, Grookey felt it could easily be replaced.

Grookey's eyes flickered as it recalled a troubling memory.

Before Summer, Grookey had another trainer who, unlike Summer's gentle demeanor, was cold and perfectionistic.

The previous trainer came from a wealthy family, providing Grookey with top-tier living conditions and meticulously crafted energy cubes. To repay this, Grookey endured grueling training, pushing through any hardship.

The trainer owned many Pokémon, but Grookey often witnessed its companions being dismissed for reasons like weakness, stupidity, or disobedience.

Determined not to be discarded, Grookey trained relentlessly, even giving up its beloved drumming.

This effort led to the trainer's acknowledgment, and Grookey became a focal point of training.

However, one day, the trainer returned home in a foul mood, repeatedly muttering about not being recognized.

Grookey, recalling its happy times drumming with friends at the nursery, gently started to drum, hoping to cheer up the trainer.

"Hey, I said, fools who act on their own don't deserve my training!" the trainer shouted, smashing the armrest with his fist and glaring coldly.

Stunned, Grookey just wanted to make the trainer happy.

The trainer stood up, snatched Grookey's stick, and yelled, "Pokémon need only obey their trainers, as my commands are perfect!"

He threw the stick into the air and commanded, "Dragapult, cut it."

A black and green dragon Pokémon appeared, exuding a deathly aura. It swiftly sliced the stick in half with its red blade.

The two halves of the stick fell to the ground with a thud, resonating in Grookey's heart. It questioned itself, wondering if it had done something wrong.

"You remind me of that annoying person. No wonder I feel an inexplicable irritation seeing you," the trainer said with a rare smile.

"I'll find you a suitable place. Just wait, fool."

The next time Grookey emerged from its Poké Ball was when it met Summer. Hence, its initial sensitivity and timidity upon seeing him.

In the short week with Summer, Grookey experienced unprecedented feelings.

Preferring the old wooden house over a luxurious residence, and bread over energy cubes, Grookey found the forest more comforting.

It appreciated Summer's inquiry about its desires over a perfectionist trainer's demands. It liked Summer, the kind ranger, and thus preferred everything associated with him.

So, what do I want?

I want to become stronger, not because Summer asked, but to protect him.

I want to become stronger, to drum freely like a Rillaboom and bring joy to others.

I want to become stronger, to protect this forest, because as Summer's Pokémon, I share his duty to protect it.

"Groo!"

Grookey lifted its head, eyes filled with determination. It wanted to become stronger.

"Looks like you've made your decision, Grookey."

Summer patted Grookey's furry head and smiled, "Since you've decided, I'll fully support you. Let's grow together."

Tears welled up in Grookey's round eyes as it cried softly. Summer confirmed that Grookey's past must have shaped its current personality.

"Grookey, if you want to cry, cry out loud. Say goodbye to the sad past and embrace a new life."

"Grooooo..."

Grookey cried loudly, letting out all its confusion and grievances.

When Grookey's crying subsided, it wiped its tears, eyes now filled with resolve. It drew its stick, ready to start training.

"I understand your enthusiasm, Grookey. But for now, get a good night's sleep. We'll start tomorrow."

Summer planned to begin training after Grookey adjusted its emotions. He needed to think carefully about the training regimen to match Grookey's drive.

In the forest cabin, Grookey slept soundly. It needed rest to recover its spirits. Summer, ensuring Grookey was fine, sat down with pen and paper to draft a training plan.

"Alright, let's start with this move."

(End of Chapter)