The choice of evolution (bonus chapter for 3,000 weekly recommendations)

A gentle breeze blew, carrying a soft rustling.

Life flourished beneath the shade of lush green trees.

For Caterpie that longed to dance through the sky, this was the best time of year. They could take in enough energy for Evolution and fulfill their dream of transforming from bugs into butterflies.

Of course, perhaps some Caterpie had even greater dreams, choosing to keep eating rather than undergo Evolution.

"Hoppip, Sleep Powder."

Dian pointed at a Caterpie up ahead.

"Na-na!"

Hoppip checked the wind direction, then quickly scattered some indigo powder.

The Sleep Powder soon drifted on the breeze toward the Caterpie munching on leaves.

"Crunch, crunch."

Caterpie was happily eating tender green leaves when a deep drowsiness suddenly washed over it. It tried to crawl somewhere safe, but after moving just a couple of steps, it collapsed on the ground, fast asleep.

Dian walked over and lifted Caterpie up. Once he confirmed that it was sound asleep, he finally smiled.

This was only the third day since Hoppip had started taking Chesto Berries. He had never expected it to master Sleep Powder so quickly. This was a tremendous boost for both him and Hoppip.

"Na-na!"

Hoppip pattered over to look at the sleeping Caterpie, then immediately bounced a few times in delight.

Suddenly—

"Ooh!"

The Caterpie in Dian's hands jolted awake. Its black eyes went wide, and it immediately cried out in alarm before releasing a pungent stench.

He frowned. Although the smell was unpleasant, it was nothing compared to Gloom's.

Dian set Caterpie down in the grass, then watched it crawl away quickly and paid it no further mind.

"Well done. Thanks for your hard work."

He picked up the Hoppip at his feet and gently stroked its forehead.

"Na-na~"

Hoppip happily rubbed against the back of his hand.