Pokemon : Rewind

The forest's atmosphere shifted as tranquility returned to the Heracross camp. With the Pinsir tribe expelled, both groups of Pokémon could finally enjoy the sweet sap the trees offered. 

The Heracross celebrated their newfound freedom, excitedly indulging in the bounty of their territory. 

Even Butterfree returned, flitting gracefully among the jubilant Heracross, sharing in their joy.

"I can already feel the ecological balance being restored," Woodruff remarked, crossing his arms as he observed the scene with satisfaction. 

"I'll notify my superiors to start replanting the dead trees soon."

His heartfelt thanks touched Ash, Misty, and Brock. "You don't have to thank us so much," Ash said with a smile. "Helping Pokémon and their environment is part of what we do."

As the situation came to a close, Ash glanced at the sun, now high in the sky. "It's almost noon. We should find a good spot to set up camp for the night," he said.

"Goodbye, and thank you again!" Woodruff called after them as they began to leave the camp. He noticed something peculiar as they walked away. 

The Heracross they had befriended during the conflict was trailing behind Ash and his friends, its curiosity and determination evident in every step.

"Looks like Heracross has taken a liking to you, Ash," Woodruff said with a knowing chuckle. Heracross, sensing something special about Ash, seemed eager to join him on his journey.

At first, Ash and his friends didn't notice their new follower. After a while, Misty finally spoke up. "Ash, I think Heracross really wants to come with us. It's been following us for ages!"

Ash turned to see Heracross trailing them at a respectful distance, its determined gaze unwavering. 

He hesitated. "But I already have a full team… If I catch Heracross, it'll have to stay at Professor Oak's lab."

Heracross's expression faltered slightly at Ash's reluctance, its hopeful eyes dimming. 

The sight made Ash's heart ache—he didn't want to disappoint the Pokémon, but he also wanted to make the best decision for it.

Misty stepped closer. "Ash, it's clear Heracross has a bond with you. A Pokémon like that deserves to be part of your team."

Brock chimed in with a supportive nod. "Exactly. Heracross has already proven its strength and kindness. It could be a great addition."

When they reached a tranquil clearing surrounded by tall grass and sturdy trees, the group began preparing their campsite. 

Ash busied himself setting up the tent, Misty gathered ingredients for a meal, and Brock organized their supplies.

From the sidelines, Heracross watched their activities with interest. After a moment of hesitation, it gathered a bundle of twigs and carefully placed them near Misty's growing pile of firewood.

"Thank you, Heracross," Misty said, pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful gesture.

Nearby, Pikachu bounded over to greet Heracross, sensing its gentle spirit. Togepi soon followed, giggling as it clambered onto Heracross's head. 

The Heracross froze briefly, unsure how to react, but quickly relaxed and handled the baby Pokémon with delicate care.

Ash emerged from the tent just in time to witness this heartwarming scene. He approached Heracross slowly, crouching down to meet its gaze.

"Hey, Heracross. Can we talk?"

The Pokémon straightened, giving Ash its full attention.

Ash took a deep breath. "I want to be honest with you. My team is already full, which means if I catch you, I'll have to send you to Professor Oak's lab. You wouldn't get to travel with us or train alongside Pikachu and the others."

Heracross's antenna drooped slightly, uncertainty flickering across its face.

"But…" Ash continued, his tone softening, "I can see how determined you are. You're willing to follow us even if it's not easy, aren't you?"

The resolve in Heracross's eyes returned as it gave a firm nod.

Ash smiled, admiration shining in his expression. "Alright. I think I know how we can make this work."

He called out Charizard, whose powerful presence immediately caught Heracross's attention.

"Charizard, you've worked so hard for us lately," Ash said. "Would you mind taking a short break at Professor Oak's lab? That way, Heracross can join our team for now."

Charizard glanced at Heracross and then back at Ash. With a confident nod, the Fire-type Pokémon agreed, understanding the importance of giving Heracross this opportunity.

Ash turned back to Heracross, holding out a Poké Ball. "What do you say? Are you ready to join our team?"

Heracross stepped forward without hesitation, tapping the Poké Ball with its horn. The ball opened, enveloping Heracross in a bright light. 

It shook once, twice, three times, before clicking shut with a satisfying ding.

As Ash sent Charizard's Poké Ball to Professor Oak via his Pokédex, he held Heracross's Poké Ball in his hand, feeling a sense of pride and anticipation.

Misty and Brock smiled at each other, sharing a sense of approval. "Heracross will make a great addition to the team," Misty said.

"That Pokémon has a heart as big as its strength," Brock added.

As the evening settled over the campsite, Ash released Heracross from its Poké Ball. It emerged with a joyful cry, its antenna twitching in excitement.

"Welcome to the team, Heracross," Ash said warmly. "We've got a lot of adventures ahead of us, and I know you'll be a big part of them."

Heracross nodded, a new sense of belonging lighting up its expression.

As the group shared a meal by the campfire, the bond between them deepened. Heracross had chosen the harder path, but it was clear that it had found its place. Together, they were ready to face whatever challenges awaited on their journey.

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