Chapter 486 - A Huge Appetite

The hatching of Larvitar was a secret known only to Aoki and his Pokémon.

For now, Aoki had no intention of revealing Larvitar's existence. Although he had a solid standing within the League and was strong enough to justify possessing such a rare Pokémon, discretion was still the wiser choice.

As the saying goes, "A tall tree catches the wind." Just as Professor Oak chose to suppress the news of Aoki's discovery regarding Slowking's evolution, Aoki understood that displaying too much talent as a Trainer could attract unwanted attention from powerful factions.

To most people, Aoki's decision to establish a Gym was seen as nothing more than youthful ambition. They believed he was merely indulging in a passing interest. However, if they were to realize that Aoki also possessed exceptional Trainer skills, certain forces might find him too dangerous to ignore.

Not everyone had the patience and tolerance of Sakagi.

Since Larvitar had just hatched, it wasn't suitable to be placed inside a Pokéball yet, as it could hinder its growth. Fortunately, Larvitar had imprinted on Aoki as its caretaker, so he had no concerns about it rejecting him.

Once Larvitar passed its infancy, Aoki could officially capture it in a Pokéball.

For now, however, there was a logistical issue.

Unlike Skorupi, which could cling to Aoki's body without drawing attention, Larvitar was far too conspicuous. More importantly, its weight was a major problem. Although Aoki hadn't weighed it, he estimated it to be around five or six hundred pounds.

There was no way he could carry it around without attracting suspicion.

Since Larvitar couldn't be stored in a Pokéball yet and wasn't able to hide in Aoki's shadow, the best solution was to keep it in the backyard of the Gym.

Thankfully, Aoki's backyard was relatively secure, with several Pokémon stationed as guards.

The Slowpoke group that Slowking had brought back had seen some development. After Aoki introduced a group of Shellder into the pond, three of the Slowpoke successfully evolved into Slowbro. These newly evolved guardians, now at levels 37 and 38, along with an Absol capable of sensing future threats, provided strong protection.

Aoki decided to leave Miltank to care for Larvitar while Slowking, the Slowpoke trio, and Absol ensured the backyard's security. With such a defense in place, it would be nearly impossible for intruders to get in.

Even so, Aoki couldn't afford to stray too far. At the very least, he needed to stay within range for Slowking to teleport him back instantly if necessary.

This unexpected responsibility forced Aoki to adjust his plans for the near future.

During his absence, the pond in the backyard had more than doubled in size, and a variety of Water-type Pokémon had begun to inhabit it. Although this wasn't a true wilderness, it functioned similarly. However, thanks to the Slowpoke clan's reverence for Aoki, the Pokémon residing in the area instinctively respected him as well.

That night, Aoki chose to sleep in the backyard with Larvitar rather than return to his room. He didn't bother setting up a tent, simply lying down on the grass under the stars.

As the night grew colder, the half-asleep Larvitar instinctively snuggled into Aoki's arms for warmth.

Soon, the other Pokémon followed suit. One by one, they curled up around Aoki, creating a unique sensation of "fire and ice."

Torchic and Larvitar radiated warmth, with Torchic feeling like a small flame pressed against his side. Meanwhile, Mudkip and Poliwhirl provided a stark contrast, their bodies cool to the touch, like tiny ice packs.

The alternating warmth and chill made for an interesting—if slightly uncomfortable—sleeping experience.

Once Honchkrow and the others finished their nightly training, they also gathered around, helping to balance the temperature.

Together, Aoki and his Pokémon spent the night in peaceful companionship.

As the first light of dawn broke, dewdrops covered the grass, making Aoki's clothes slightly damp.

Breaking free from the gentle grasp of his Pokémon, he noticed that both Honchkrow and Slowking were already awake, having adapted to his lifestyle. Torchic, on the other hand, was still fast asleep, enjoying its cozy existence.

Aoki let the sleeping ones be. They had earned the right to sleep in.

While Honchkrow led the others to train a little farther away, Aoki began preparing breakfast.

Before long, the rich aroma of food filled the backyard, rousing even the sleepiest Pokémon.

Rubbing their eyes, the little ones eagerly gathered around, drawn in by the delicious scent.

Even Larvitar, only a day old, momentarily forgot about the other Pokémon in his curiosity about Aoki's cooking.

Smiling, Aoki distributed food to each of his Pokémon, also taking the time to teach Larvitar how to use the provided eating utensils.

It was only then that Larvitar truly took notice of the other Pokémon around it.

Rather than showing fear, Larvitar observed them with curiosity. However, it quickly decided that eating was the more pressing priority.

Sitting down on the ground, Larvitar hugged its food bowl and dug in.

Aoki noted that Larvitar was already showing better control over its body compared to yesterday. This time, when it plopped down, it left a deep impression in the ground but made no loud noise.

Even so, the other Pokémon couldn't help but be surprised by the sheer weight of the small creature.

The most amused among them was Aron.

Aron glanced between Larvitar and itself, then curiously tried to imitate Larvitar's movements. Sitting down, it created a small indentation in the soil, but it was nowhere near as deep as Larvitar's.

Realizing that someone was finally heavier than itself, Aron beamed with joy.

Content with the discovery, it nestled back into its own little pit and resumed eating.

As a known glutton, Larvitar, even at just a day old, was already showcasing its enormous appetite. It ate more than both Torchic and Mudkip combined.

Aoki was relieved that Larvitar was eating well, though he also felt slightly concerned.

"Man, this little one is going to be expensive to feed..."