It was a clearing in the woods.
Larvitar and Larvesta were battling. Not far away, Drilbur diligently swung its sharp claws at a huge rock, sending chips flying.
Swampert had taken Bastiodon underground to train something or other. Yong had asked, but Swampert had hemmed and hawed, unable to explain clearly.
Meanwhile, beside a large tree, Rhydon chased Yong around the trunk, practicing its ability to maneuver over short distances in tight spaces.
It was the third day since leaving Hearthome City. Traveling alone, Yong felt as though he had rediscovered a familiar feeling.
He stopped and started along the way, admiring scenery unlike that of the Hoenn Region and experiencing the vastness and solidity of another land.
Yong felt more at ease traveling alone like this. Walking across the earth, one step at a time, he inexplicably felt a closeness to nature, as though he were becoming part of it.
Whenever they met a challenger, Larvesta, Larvitar, and Drilbur took turns battling. Win or lose, he faced it with a smile, watching the little ones steadily grow stronger.
They gradually shed their immaturity, becoming more seasoned and formidable. With the Secret Treasures accelerating their growth, they developed faster and built firmer foundations!
They had seen no rivers or ponds along the way. The farther west they traveled and the closer they drew to Mt. Coronet, the more trees replaced the shrubs and low grass. The marshes had disappeared, and the air grew colder and drier.
Unable to find an ideal training spot, Yong had settled for a clearing and begun their daily training.
Now, panting with his hands braced on his knees, he smiled at Rhydon and said,
"That was great, Rhydon! You're improving fast! You're more agile than I imagined! And stamina is your strong suit. As long