Pokemon: A New Path

Chapter 421: Inside the World Tree, Future Plans

Chapter 421: Inside the World Tree, Future Plans

After preparing everything for Professor Oak's visit, Naoki turned his attention back to the growing popularity of Calyrex on the Forum. With every new follower, the faith directed toward Calyrex grew stronger.

Though Calyrex's calm demeanor betrayed no outward change, Naoki could sense the surging power of faith coursing through the Pokémon. It was as if the strength of over 100,000 believers had condensed into an unstoppable force.

If Calyrex unleashed its full strength now, Naoki had little doubt it could rival even Giratina. Such was the might of collective faith.

That afternoon, Naoki gathered his ranch Pokémon and led them, along with Calyrex, to the base of the World Tree.

The once-barren void had transformed into a lush paradise, with the colossal World Tree standing as its centerpiece. Its towering crown seemed to touch the heavens, spreading green leaves that shimmered with an otherworldly light. The tree's vast trunk, encased in golden sunlight, was as wide as half the ranch itself. Rivers flowed down from the sky-high canopy, nourishing the earth below.

Naoki looked up at the tree in awe. Just a few months ago, it had been a mere seedling. Now, it was a monument of life and vitality, a beacon of nature's power.

The sight reaffirmed its legendary status—a tree capable of sustaining the world itself.

Naoki cast his gaze towards the World Tree, and the information of the World Tree was fully displayed in front of him

[World Tree (Mature Stage):

Originally a small seedling infused with immense Grass-type energy. Due to care from Gogoat during its growth, it underwent a unique mutation. It now radiates vitality and holds the potential to sustain life worldwide.

Time to full maturity: 48,054 years.]

Before, Naoki estimated the tree would reach full maturity by the year's end. Now, with faith fueling its power, Naoki had a hunch that timeline would shrink drastically.

"Let's begin, Calyrex," Naoki said with anticipation. He couldn't wait to see how much power those 100,000 believers had granted the King of Bountiful Harvests.

"Very well," Calyrex replied softly.

Under the watchful eyes of the ranch's Pokémon, Calyrex raised its hands gracefully. A tranquil blue light enveloped its body, radiating warmth and serenity. The light gathered into an ethereal river of energy, connecting Calyrex to the World Tree in a dazzling display.

As the energy flowed into the tree, ripples of power spread across its massive trunk and canopy. The leaves began to shimmer, emitting a gentle rustling sound as though responding to the surge of life.

"Rustle... rustle..."

The energy resonated through the tree, its shadows shifting like living creatures. The Pokémon watched in awe as the World Tree seemed to breathe, its vitality intensifying with each passing moment.

Under the watchful eyes of Naoki and the gathered Pokémon, a peculiar transformation began to unfold before them. A gap appeared on the thick, tangled trunk of the World Tree, exposing an entrance that seemed to lead into its depths.

As Naoki observed, the trunk of the tree began to shift. What once appeared to be simple bark started to resemble a hybrid of rock formations and crystalline structures, while still maintaining the essence of a tree.

"What's happening?" Naoki murmured, perplexed.

Glaring at the phenomenon, Koraidon tilted its head curiously and approached the roots alongside Naoki. The massive roots extended across the ground like ancient, gnarled veins of the earth. Koraidon sniffed at the roots but seemed unable to discern anything unusual.

Naoki, however, was deep in thought.

His mind wandered to another World Tree mentioned in legends: the Tree of Beginning in the Kanto region, located near Kingdom of Rota. Unlike ordinary trees, that World Tree was a crystalline life form. Though it resembled a tree, it was made of rock-like structures and relied on sunlight for energy and sustenance.

"Could it be?" Naoki mused aloud. "Is this World Tree also evolving into something similar?"

If so, it would solve a major concern. Even if this World Tree eventually took to the skies or lost access to soil nutrients, it would remain alive and thriving, sustained by solar energy.

Naoki then turned his attention back to the information, which had automatically updated the World Tree's description:

[World Tree (Mature Stage):

The World Tree is thriving. Its growth is nearing completion as it transforms into another life form, constructing a self-contained internal environment. A magical tree capable of sustaining a world and nourishing all life with natural energy. Time to full maturity: 38,198 years.]

The reduction in growth time was startling.

Naoki performed a quick calculation:

48,054 - 38,198 = 9,856 years.

"Nearly 10,000 years shaved off…" Naoki murmured in astonishment. "That's almost double the progress from last time."

He recalled the earlier stages of the World Tree's growth, when Calyrex's powers were just beginning to flourish. Initially, Calyrex could reduce the growth cycle by roughly 2,000 years with each effort.

As more people in Kosaji Town and visiting travelers began to believe in the King of Bountiful Harvests, His power grew stronger, allowing it to shorten the tree's growth cycle by more than 4,000 years in subsequent sessions.

Now, with the faith of over 100,000 people fueling Calyrex, the time reduction had skyrocketed to nearly 10,000 years in a single attempt.

Calyrex beside Naoki appeared weary, but his expression remained serene and gentle. "This is the extent of my strength right now," he said softly.

Looking up at the towering World Tree, Calyrex's heart swelled with a mix of pride and anticipation.

"Do you want to rest for a while?" Naoki asked, his voice filled with concern.

Calyrex shook his head firmly. "There's no need. Like you, I'm eager to explore the inside of the World Tree."

Naoki nodded, understanding the resolve in the Calyrex's gaze. "Alright, then let's go see it together!"

Several curious Eevees clung to Naoki, peeking excitedly at the entrance of the cave. Holding the pink Dratini close, Naoki took the first step inside, followed closely by his Pokémon companions. Koraidon, Cyclizar, Pawmot, the Gogoat herd, Alcremie, Pawmot, Butterfree, Gholdengo, Garganacl, Dugtrio, and the diverse Eeveelution group—Vaporeon, Flareon, Jolteon, Glaceon, and Umbreon—all followed in a lively procession.

The passage beyond the entrance twisted and turned, its layout deliberately intricate, as if designed to confuse intruders.

Despite his determination, Naoki soon found himself lost in the maze-like interior. Staring at the dead end before him, he turned to Calyrex. "Could you use your telekinetic powers to guide us?"

Calyrex nodded, his eyes glowing faintly as he cast his powers outward. With his help, the group navigated the confusing pathways and finally arrived at the World Tree's core.

At the center of the World Tree, they discovered a unique vertical passage resembling an ethereal elevator. A soft, green light encircled the area, and shimmering bubbles floated lazily upwards through the space. The bubbles seemed to be the key to reaching the upper levels.

Curious, Naoki extended his hand toward the glowing ring of light and watched in amazement as his hand passed through effortlessly. The Eevees, ever curious, jumped down from their perch and sniffed at the light film cautiously.

One Eevee, accidentally nudged by a companion, tumbled forward into the light.

"Ee-vuiii!" the startled Pokémon squealed, but before panic could take over, a bubble gently enveloped it, lifting it skyward.

Naoki blinked in surprise as the bubble ascended, carrying Eevee effortlessly upward.

Koraidon, ever perceptive, pointed at the floating bubble with its claw and let out an enthusiastic cry, signaling the group to follow. Naoki quickly caught on. "Alright, let's go!"

Naoki stepped into the light film with his Pokémon. Immediately, several bubbles formed, enveloping him, Koraidon, Cyclizar, and the rest of the group. They began to rise swiftly, ascending through the World Tree's interior.

Through the translucent bubbles, Naoki could see glimpses of various floors within the tree. Each level seemed unique, brimming with lush greenery and shimmering light.

"Is the World Tree's interior this vast?" Naoki murmured, marveling at the size and complexity of the space.

Before he could count the floors, the bubbles reached the top. With a soft pop, the bubbles burst, gently releasing Naoki, Koraidon, and the others.

When Naoki and his Pokémon companions fully took in the scene before them, they were left in awe.

The land was lush and vibrant, with fertile soil and soft grass stretching across the terrain. A tranquil lake rested among the dense woods, shrouded in a thin mist that gave the area an ethereal, dreamlike quality. Moss-covered trees framed the lake, with long, green vines draping elegantly from their branches. Brightly colored flowers adorned the grassy patches near the lake, their sweet fragrance blending with the natural energy of the environment, creating an atmosphere that was both relaxing and invigorating.

This was the summit of the World Tree. Through the thick canopy above, Naoki could see the dark void of the Reverse World beyond. If they were in the real world, he imagined the scene would be framed by a brilliant blue sky or a shimmering starry night. The thought of such beauty made him smile.

"Pawmot…" Pawmot murmured softly.

Even without translation from Rotom, Naoki understood its sentiment. The little Pokémon's wide-eyed gaze said it all.

"It's beautiful…" Pawmot conveyed.

"It really is," Naoki agreed.

Nearby, the Eevee that had been carried to the summit by the bubble stood transfixed, its astonished gaze sweeping over the breathtaking landscape. Naoki decided to take a moment to relax and sat down on the soft grass, watching his Pokémon explore and play with unbridled joy.

The Gogoat herd and the Tropius stood on the lush grass, their bright eyes shining with excitement as they grazed on the vibrant greenery. The Eevees darted through the grass, playing an enthusiastic game of hide-and-seek, their laughter-like cries adding to the harmony of the scene.

Vaporeon was drawn to the lake, where it curiously examined its reflection on the water's surface before leaping in with a graceful splash. It swam energetically, its tail cutting through the water in elegant arcs.

Butterfree perched atop a tree branch, its wings catching the sunlight. Meanwhile, Pawmot flitted excitedly through the woods, exploring every corner of the new environment.

Cyclizar and Koraidon sat beside Naoki, watching their friends with contentment. Calyrex, serene as ever, floated beside him.

Naoki turned to Calyrex and said, "When the World Tree is fully grown, this can be your home. I want to turn this place into a paradise for Pokémon."

Naoki's mind brimmed with ideas. During their ascent, he had noticed the various levels within the World Tree, each with a distinct environment. Grasslands, forests, valleys, and caves—each space seemed tailor-made for different types of Pokémon.

"We can create habitats for every type of Pokémon here," Naoki continued. "The grasslands and forests can be for Grass-types, the caves for Rock-types, and the lakes for Water-types. I can build an expedition guild, a supply store, a restaurant, a tavern, a dessert shop, and even a café."

He chuckled at the thought of his Pokémon taking on these roles. "Pawmot's parents could run the supply store. Tropius can supply fresh produce for the restaurant. Alcremie could make desserts, and Rotom could manage the guild and hand out commissions."

Although this world lacks mysterious mazes or hidden dungeons, commissions could focus on simpler, yet equally rewarding tasks: planting fruit trees, cultivating crops, harvesting fields, and maintaining the lush environment around the World Tree.

With the secret base of the Hero's Expedition Team established, the infrastructure on the World Tree was finally complete.

Now, Naoki could focus on inviting more diverse Pokémon species to join the community and live on the World Tree. Compared to Professor Oak's research lab, the World Tree offered a far grander and more dynamic environment—a perfect haven for Pokémon.

Naoki eagerly shared his future plans with Calyrex, who listened intently. The noble Pokémon occasionally whispered, "I look forward to that day."

Beside them, Koraidon nodded enthusiastically, its cheerful demeanor infectious. "Raao~!" it cried, its energy reflecting its faith in Naoki's vision. The Pokémon could sense that all of Naoki's dreams would one day become a reality.

Suddenly, Koraidon's expression shifted as it remembered something important. As the World Tree grew closer to full maturity, it would inevitably draw the attention of a powerful entity. This figure, whose strength was terrifying, would one day "invite" Naoki to assist in opening portals to other worlds atop the World Tree. These portals would allow the Pokémon of the Expedition Team to venture into different realms, aiding Pokémon in need and saving worlds in turmoil.

Although Koraidon itself had stayed with Naoki, Farfetch'd, who had ventured into those portals, often shared tales of incredible adventures and other heroic Pokémon teams in distant worlds.

....

That night, Naoki and his Pokémon returned to the ranch from the World Tree. With Calyrex's strength, the time needed for the World Tree to reach full maturity had been drastically reduced—it was now estimated to take just four months.

Naoki was filled with anticipation but couldn't shake a lingering worry. He had promised Giratina to help deal with Arceus. Only after keeping this promise would Giratina assist in raising the World Tree into the sky, allowing it to flourish as a beacon of life.

Earlier that afternoon, Naoki had researched online using his Rotom Phone and confirmed the current era by examining the list of participants from the Silver Conference. He deduced that Ash Ketchum, known in this world, had recently completed his Johto journey and competed in the Silver Conference last year. This year, Ash would be traveling to the Hoenn region.

Naoki realized this timeline meant Ash would venture into the Sinnoh region the following year—precisely when Arceus would awaken, seeking vengeance on humanity.

The thought of Arceus, a being heralded as the Creator of the Pokémon world, was daunting. Naoki could only imagine the immense power it wielded. From what he recalled in Pokémon: Arceus and the Jewel of Life, even the combined efforts of Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina weren't enough to subdue Arceus. It had taken Ash and his companions traveling back in time to rewrite the course of events.

Naoki's mind lingered on a critical factor: the Plates. These elemental artifacts granted Arceus immunity to corresponding types, making it nearly invincible when equipped.

"It all comes back to those Plates," Naoki murmured to himself. Without them, Arceus might not be so untouchable.

Even though Pawmot had gained some of Calyrex's power, Naoki felt uneasy about relying solely on it.

He pondered an alternative: Could they turn their attention to Arceus's Plates? The thought of Baby bear's unique ability, paired with its fortune and Run Away effect, sparked an idea.

"Maybe I could send Baby Bear to 'Pick Up' Arceus's Plates," Naoki mused to himself. "If it grabs one and bolts, the Run Away effect might ensure its escape, and that could effectively limit Arceus's strength."

The idea was bold and risky, but Naoki began drafting a contingency plan in his mind, just in case the unthinkable happened.

Later, dinner was prepared by sister Indeedee. The warm, homely meal brought everyone together, and after eating, the Pokémon returned to their respective nests for a well-deserved rest.

Naoki headed back to his room, intending to wind down with his Rotom Phone. However, as he scrolled, he felt a gaze boring into him.

He turned to find Koraidon watching him intently, its big eyes filled with an unmistakable look of longing.

"Alright, alright," Naoki relented with a small laugh. He set his phone aside and patted the bed, motioning for Koraidon to come closer. "Come on, then."

Koraidon perked up instantly, bounding over with excitement. It nuzzled Naoki affectionately, its large tongue brushing against his face in a wet, slobbery show of gratitude.

"Ugh, Koraidon!" Naoki exclaimed, grabbing a nearby towel to wipe his face clean. "Do you have to do that?"

"Raao~" Koraidon cooed, utterly unrepentant.

Naoki sighed, his exasperation quickly melting into fondness. "Fine, fine. No more phone tonight. Let's just sleep, okay?"

Koraidon let out a happy trill, curling up beside him on the bed. Despite its size, it somehow managed to fit snugly without taking up too much room.

As Naoki closed his eyes, he couldn't help but think about how attached his Pokémon had grown to him. If Professor Sada were to see this side of Koraidon, she'd probably surprised.

With a final chuckle at the thought, Naoki drifted off to sleep.